Easter 2017 East Kent Primary Times by Alison Watson

e e r f

E D I GU N O S ’ AT H W

for families with primary aged children

in East Kent Easter Edition • Issue 102 • 20 March - 14 May 2017

FREE OPEN DAY Saturday 6th May at PQA Thanet! See page 3 for more details Visit www.pqacademy.com or call FREEPHONE 0800 531 6282

The Best Family Guide to What’s On

What’s On Your family diary for March, April and May

Ongoing Daily

Gruffalo Trail, Bedgebury National Pinetum & Forest, Goudhurst TN17 2SJ

Download The Gruffalo Spotter app before you visit. Along the trail look out for clues which lead to footprint marker posts - point the app at these and watch Mouse, Fox, Owl, Snake and the Gruffalo appear before your eyes. For more information visit www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/infd9humpt

Fri 31 Mar

Wear a Hat Day, Nationwide

Wear a Hat Day takes place every March during Brain Tumour Awareness month to raise funds and awareness for this disease. Schools, workplaces and individuals take part by donning crazy headgear. Register now to start planning your event. For more information visit www. wearahatday.org

Make your Own Medusa Mask, Canterbury Roman Museum, CT1 2JR

Go along and have fun making a colourful Medusa Mask to take home. For more information visit www. canterburymuseums.co.uk

Until 2 April

Sappers & The Somme, Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham, ME4 4UG

This exhibition will commemorate the contribution of the Royal Engineers in supporting the Army at the Battle of the Somme. Free admission. For more information visit www.re-museum.co.uk

Until 1 May

Doc. Yard’s Secret Lab, The Historic Dockyard, Chatham, ME4 4TE

(Selected dates) Young scientists will find out about the tiny world of the atom and the electron, have hair raising fun finding out what happens when exposed to 100,000 volts of electricity and more. Fun for all the family. For times, booking and more information visit www.thedockyard.co.uk

Wed 22 – Sun 26 Mar

Make your own Viking Brooch, Canterbury Heritage Museum, CT1 2NR

11am-5pm. Would you like to be a Valiant Viking? Go and make your own colourful brooch to wear just like a Viking. Drop in, admission charges apply. For more information visit www.canterbury.co.uk/museums/ heritage-museum

Fri 24 Mar

For the Love of Bears, The Salvation Army, Hythe, CT21 6EG

7.30-9.45pm. An audio-visual talk by Ian and Marie-Laure Stone about the Forests and Lakes which are home to the European brown bear and the Polar bear. A donation would be appreciated. For more information visit www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Sat 25 Mar

Mothers’ Day Woodland Crafts, Hunstead Wood, Canterbury CT4 7NT

10am-3pm. Try out new crafts including jewellery making, using your own handmade beads and dyed fabrics, charcoal pencil making and woodcraft activities. Meet in the parking area. Ages 4+. Charges apply. For more information visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Earth Hour, Nationwide

8.30-9.30pm. WWF is calling for everyone to sign up and take part in Earth Hour - an annual global demonstration where millions around the world switch off their lights for one hour to show they care about the future of our planet and to call for action on climate change. To sign up visit www.wwf.org.uk/ earthhour

Saturday Craft Club, Tunbridge Wells Museum and Art Gallery, TN1 1JN 10am-12noon, 2-4pm. Go along to a free drop in session of craft. Self-led event and March’s theme is Time Travelling Tableau. For more information visit www. tunbridgewellsmuseum.org

March

Wed 22 Mar

Sissinghurst Castle Gardens, Nr Cranbrook, TN17 2AB

7–9am. A great opportunity to see and hear the many species of birds with a guided estate walk. Afterwards you can warm up with a breakfast treat in the restaurant. For more information and to book visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ sissinghurst-castle

20 Mar - 14 May ‘17

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

”

Sat 25 – Sun 26 Mar

A Wild Mothers’ Day Out, Howletts Wild Animal Park, Bekesbourne, Nr Canterbury, CT4 5AE

Explore the award-winning wild animal park to see the new arrivals and their animal mums, including adorable Mizi, our baby black rhino. You can take part in free crafts and make Mum a special card. For times, more information and to book visit www.aspinallfoundation.org/howletts

Mothers’ Day Workshop, Milbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend, DA13 9PA

Mothers’ Day Weekend, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Treat mum to an afternoon tea or a delicious lunch. Children can decorate a flower pot to give mum on her special day in a free craft workshop and can also join a biscuit decorating workshop (charges apply). For more details and to book visit www.hevercastle.co.uk

Easter Bunny Hunt, Broadditch Farm Shop, Southfleet, DA13 9PU Enjoy a woodland walk whilst looking for the bunnies on the Easter Bunny Hunt. When you find a bunny write the first letter of its name on the worksheet, when your worksheet is complete claim your prize. For more information and to book visit www. broadditch.co.uk/easter

Sun 26 Mar

Family Workshop, Turner Contemporary, Margate, CT1 1HG

9.30-11am. Get creative at the parent and child workshop as together you make a fanciful fairy garden to take home. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www. millbrook.co.uk

(Also 7 May) 1-4pm. Experience the calming and creative techniques of weaving and tapestry to create your own masterpiece, using recycled materials and methods. Drop-in session. Charges apply. For more information visit www. turnercontemporary.org

A Weekend for Mum, Penshurst Place, Tonbridge, TN11 8DG

Mothers’ Day Garden Tour and Cream Tea, Chartwell, Westerham, TN16 1PS

12noon-4pm.Visit on Sat to create a special card and maybe a hand-made present or two for Mum. On Sun, you can treat her to a Mothers’ Day lunch in the Garden Restaurant. For more information and to book visit www.penshurstplace.com

2.15pm–4pm. Enjoy a garden tour, finishing back at the Mulberry Room for a cream tea. For more information and to book visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell

Mothers’ Day Afternoon Tea, Dreamland, Margate, CT9 1XJ

10am–4pm. Make your own token as a treat for Mum. Materials are provided for this self-led craft. For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/emmetts-garden

12noon-2pm. Plan the ideal day and spoil mum with an Afternoon Tea. Held in the beautifully restored 1920s Ballroom, this is the perfect setting to accompany the delicious array of scones, cakes and finger sandwiches. For more information and to book visit www.dreamland. co.uk

British Truck Racing Championship, Brands Hatch Circuit, Longfield, DA3 8NG These monsters will crash, smash and thunder their way around the circuit with the ferocity of touring cars. There will be a colourful and fun support line-up too, and there will be plenty of off-track attractions as well. For more information and to book see www.brandshatch.co.uk

Mothers’ Day Craft, Emmetts Garden, Sevenoaks, TN14 6BA

Mothers’ Day afternoon Tea, Fort Amherst, Chatham, ME4 4UB 12noon–3pm. Afternoon tea will be held in the historic Guard House where you will enjoy a selection of delicious freshly prepared sandwiches, cakes, scones and pots of tea. Afterwards, you will head upstairs where the Lindy Hop dancers will entertain you as well as offer a unique 1940s swing dance lesson. To book and for more information visit www.fortamherst.com

For lots more Roundabout ideas see page 6...

For thousands more ideas visit www.primarytimes.net

’S AT WH

Dear Readers

IDE GU ON

for families with primary aged children

in East Kent Easter Edition • Issue 102 • 20 March - 14 May 2017

The weather is getting warmer, the sun is shining every now and then, the trees have begun blossoming and Spring is on its way, finally, so welcome to our Spring/Easter magazine. We’ve tried our best to get in The Best Family Guide to What’s On the mood for this egg-cellent time of the year with an eggstra-ordinary magazine with egg-citing listings, egg-specially for all our readers ... no more eggs I promise unless they’re of the chocolate variety! FREE OPEN DAY Saturday 6th May at PQA Thanet! See page 3 for more details Visit www.pqacademy.com or call FREEPHONE 0800 531 6282

As usual we have loads of events to choose to go to over the Spring break. Hayley and Miriam have had their heads down beavering away getting you the very best of things to go to. If you do visit any of these places we would love you to mention that you read about them in Primary Times. Look out for our fantastic Brighton Fringe competition too where you could end up winning a weekend in Brighton with accommodation, a meal, tickets to the Fringe and wonderful memories. To be in with a chance of winning this competition there’s one simple question to answer and you could be off on a very jolly weekend with your family and we could be receiving a pretty postcard from a very happy reader!

Peter and the Primary Times team The Primary Times Team: Publishing Editor: Peter Watson Sales: Gill Pearce, Andrew Langridge, Ashley Inglove & Karen Ellul Listings: Hayley Hughes & Miriam Theobald Editorial: Anna Stringer Production: Alison Watson Office Manager: Chris Blower Administrators: Claire Wood & Tina Love Proof Reader: Catherine Draisey Social Media: Rachel Benson

Primary Times in East Kent 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG Tel: 020 8318 0400 Email: office@primarytimes.biz Website: www.primarytimes.net Twitter: @PT_Kent

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.

inside this issue.... Primary Times is now printed on recycled text paper, from 100% post-consumer waste, made in Europe by a paper mill that is certified and supports responsible forestry. Recycle 0% d 10

If you do enter this or any of our other competitions do remember to include your contact details. We often get entries from people we would love to pick as prize winners but if we can’t contact you we can’t let you win....

Contents

E c ola b el P E

News..................................4 Family Theatre Guide........8 Fun Days Out this Spring..11 Education......................... 16 Competitions.................... 19

e fre

Look out for our next issue published in time for May Half Term and in schools from 15 May 2017

Katie Clown...................... 21 What’s New......................25 Good Work Page.............27

THE PAULINE QUIRKE

ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS IS ENROLLING NOW IN THANET! Outstanding performing arts tuition for 4-18 year olds.

FREE OPEN DAY SATURDAY 6TH MAY Starts 9.45am Ends 1pm Find us at The Charles Dickens School, Broadstairs Road, Broadstairs, Kent, CT10 2RL FREEPHONE 0800 531 6282 Visit www.pqacademy.com 20 Mar - 14 May ‘17

News

Film & DVD Preview Guide Creating Thrills and Skills for Life Beauty and the Beast Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” is a live-action adaptation of the studio’s animated classic which refashions the classic characters from the tale as old as time for a contemporary audience, staying true to the original music while updating the score with several new songs.“Beauty and the Beast” is the fantastic journey of Belle, a bright, beautiful and independent young woman who is taken prisoner by a beast in his castle. Despite her fears, she befriends the castle’s enchanted staff and learns to look beyond the Beast’s hideous exterior and realize the kind heart and soul of the true Prince within.“Beauty and the Beast” is released in the UK and Ireland on 17 March.

The Boss Baby Meet a most unusual baby. He wears a suit and speaks with the voice and wit of Alec Baldwin.‘The Boss Baby’ is a hilarious story about how a new baby’s arrival impacts a family, told from the point of view of a delightfully unreliable narrator, a wildly imaginative seven-year old named Tim.Tim is jealous of his fast-talking, briefcasecarrying baby brother. When he embarks on a mission to win back the affections of his parents, he stumbles upon a secret ploy by the CEO of Puppy Co. that threatens to destroy the balance of love in the world.Tim and his brother must come together to stop the dastardly scheme.With a sly, heart-ﬁlled message about the importance of family,The Boss Baby is an authentic and broadly appealing original comedy for all ages. DreamWorks Animation’s ‘The Boss Baby’ will be released in cinemas on 7 April.

Zip and Zap and the Marble Gang

Two iconic Spanish comic strip characters Zip and Zap come to life in this exciting adventure. Brothers Zip and Zap thought they would get to enjoy their summer holidays. But after they’re sent away to summer school, they soon realise their summer isn’t going to be any fun after all. The headmaster is a one-eyed, patch-wearing man whose motto is ‘no play is allowed’ who, along with his chief security guard, runs the school with strict discipline. Zip and Zap quickly make friends and form ‘The Marble Gang’ with the aim to wreak havoc around the school by creating mischief and playing pranks whilst everyone sleeps. During one of their adventures, they discover that the headmaster is hiding a mysterious secret - one the brothers are just itching to solve…Zip and Zap is in cinemas from 31 March 2017.

20 Mar - 14 May ‘17

The Pauline Quirke Academy is a weekend performing arts school for 4-18 year olds - and the newest academy is opening in Thanet on Saturday 6 May. Students spend three hours with PQA, rotating through hour long sessions in Comedy & Drama, Musical Theatre and Film & Television. Specialist modules, packed full of tips that Pauline has picked up from nearly 50 years in the business, will teach you everything you need to know to act, sing, dance or direct like a professional. By working with people they believe are outstanding in their field, they aim to provide students with a constantly evolving experience something that is fresh, exciting and bang up-to-date. PQA believe in inspiring and rewarding students, so they offer free group Trinity exams, masterclasses, cinema screenings, the chance to join PQA’s exclusive agency, Quirky Kidz, and the opportunity to perform in London’s West End. PQA Thanet is holding a free open day on Saturday 6 May from 9.45am–1pm at The Charles Dickens School, Broadstairs Road, Broadstairs. PQA is also enrolling now in Canterbury. For more information please visit www.pqacademy.com or call 08005 316 282.

Family Rave at Dreamland Margate

Dreamland Margate is to be a host venue for the Big Fish Little Fish tour with Camp Bestival. The award-winning family festival is teaming up with Dreamland favourites, Big Fish Little Fish, to celebrate this year’s Pop Stars & Rock Stars theme with a series of parties for all the family. Starting in Exeter on 5 February, the tour will be raving its way across locations throughout the south of England, hitting Margate on Saturday 8 April. In just a few short years, Big Fish Little Fish has become a big deal on the family arts scene. Hosting top quality raves for all the family and featuring the cream of the A-list DJ scene, there’s a myriad of fun and games for kids of all ages. Now teaming up with Camp Bestival, they’ll be bringing a series of fancy dress-fuelled tear ups with top DJs, a multi-sensory dance floor and Captain Cookie and her craft activities. With lashings of Camp Bestival’s magic and mayhem and amazing talent in the UK’s original pleasure park, you’d be mad to miss out. Big Fish Little Fish head to Dreamland Margate on Saturday 8 April, 2-4pm. To buy tickets go to www.dreamland.co.uk.

For thousands more ideas visit www.primarytimes.net

Parties held at our studio near Sittingbourne or your home

01622 522116

Mickey and the Gang Rev Up Disney Junior’s animated Mickey and the Roadster Racers, a madcap car-racing adventure series for preschoolers led by Disney’s No. 1 star, Mickey Mouse, and his pals Minnie, Pluto, Goofy, Daisy and Donald – as well as a host of international guest stars – will make its UK television debut this April on Disney Junior. The series, which will premiere internationally throughout 2017 and is coming to Disney Junior UK in April, takes Mickey and the gang, along with their unique transforming vehicles, on humorous high-spirited races around the globe as well as hometown capers in Hot Dog Hills. Off the racetrack, Minnie and Daisy also run their own successful business as Happy Helpers, solving problems for anyone in need of a helping hand. Geared towards kids aged 2-7 years, the stories are designed to impart social and emotional lessons about friendship, teamwork, optimism and good sportsmanship. The race begins early April 2017. Head to www.disney.co.uk/disneyjunior to find out more.

Perform Drama, Dance and Singing Workshops Perform is a unique type of children’s drama school. Focusing on child development, Perform uses a specially formulated mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s true potential. Small class sizes ensure lots of individual attention by the experienced actor-teachers who focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Coordination and Concentration and having the best fun of the week.

News

If you had booked this space 38,500 families could be reading all about your business Don’t delay, call Gill today

The Perform curriculum uses a mix of energetic games, catchy songs and funky dances. All class materials are written by Perform with a different theme each term to keep young imaginations buzzing. The summer term starts in April with two new and exciting themes. Perform 4–7 year olds will be saddling up and going on a Wild West adventure to find the Horse with the Golden Mane. Children will be rodeo-riding through a spooky ghost town, dancing to the Hip Hop Hoedown and meeting Chief Sitting Bull of the Sioux Tribe. Meanwhile, the 7–12s will be zooming off on a fun-filled outer space adventure with Robinson Crusoe. After crash-landing on Mars, the intergalactic hero has to save the Martian children from being eaten by the evil Commander Cannibal. With infectious tunes and highenergy dance, this space-age version of the castaway survival classic has been transformed into an explosive new show. Perform offers a no-obligation, free trial session. To book or find your nearest venue, contact: 020 7255 9120 or visit www.perform. org.uk/try.

Spring is the time of projects and plans. Tolstoy

Is a change of plan needed for your child’s education? The Junior School at Dover College offers children aged from 3 to 11 a creative curriculum, specialist teaching in sports, music and languages - all in class sizes of no more than 15 pupils. We create independent, confident, risk-taking learners and we are proud to celebrate every pupil’s strengths and achievements. Places now available for Summer or September entry.

20 Mar - 14 May ‘17

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary across the Spring season

March

a table in the Castle View restaurant for evening dining. For more information visit www.leeds-castle. com

12noon-5pm. Treat mum to a two course Sunday Lunch and you will receive a free gift for her. Booking essential. For more information and to book visit www.thehopfarm.co.uk

Fri 31 Mar

Mothers’ Day, Hop Farm, Tonbridge, TN12 6PY

Mothers’ Day and Family Fun, Groombridge Place, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 9QS 10am-5pm. Fun for the family, there will be a Bouncy castle, face painting, meet one of the magical Grooms and a free gift for all the Mums too. For more information visit www. groombridgeplace.com

Mothers’ Day Lunch, Barnehurst Golf Course, DA7 6JU

Treat Mum to a delicious 3 course meal on this special day, and for an extra £2, a glass of prosecco. Charges apply. Book on 01322 523 746. For more information visit www. mytimeactive.co.uk/barnehurst

Mothers’ Day, Port Lympne Wild Animal Park, Nr Hythe, CT21 4PD

12noon–3pm. Treat Mum to a very special lunch, or champagne afternoon tea, for Mother’s Day at Port Lympne Hotel. For more information visit www. aspinallfoundation.org/port-lympne

Mothers’ Day Celebration, Quex Park and Powell-Cotton Museum, Birchington CT7 0BH

11am-5pm.Delicate sandwiches savoury pastries and scones served with preserves and a delectable array of sweet pastry confections. Choose speciality tea or fresh coffee, along with a complimentary glass of Prosecco. For more information and to book visit www.quexpark.co.uk

Mothers’ Day Costume Tour and Cream Tea, Smallhythe Place, Tenterden, TN30 7NG

11.30am. This Mothers’ Day treat Mum to a fascinating costume tour and a traditional English cream tea at Smallhythe Place. For times and to book visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ smallhythe-place

Mothers’ Day, Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 0TG

12noon and 3pm. Treat mum and enjoy a three Course Carvery Lunch and take in the beautiful surroundings of Salomons Estate. For more information and to book visit www. salomons-estate.com

Mothers’ Day, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL

Treat your mum like a Queen on Mothers’ Day. Enjoy an afternoon in style in the 16th century Maiden’s Tower, or treat the whole family to a traditional roast lunch combining a day out at Leeds Castle. Or book

20 Mar - 14 May ‘17

Tribute Night, Barnehurst Golf Course, DA7 6JU Go along to this fantastic David Bowie Tribute act and enjoy a delicious buffet. Charges apply. Book on 01322 523 746. For more information visit www.mytimeactive. co.uk/barnehurst

“

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

”

Swalecliffe & Chestfield Spring Bazaar, The Community Centre, Swalecliffe CT5 2QU 9.30am – 12.30pm. Help raise vital funds by visiting this Spring Bazaar. More information visit www. lordwhisky.co.uk/news-and-events

Fri 31 Mar – Mon 17 Apr

Easter Holiday Fun, Howletts Wild Animal Park, Bekesbourne, Nr Canterbury, CT4 5AE

Follow Bluewater’s Egg Trail around the shopping centre and gro1111unds. Will you win a yummy treat at the end? For more information visit www.bluewater. co.uk

9.30am–5.30pm. Discover wonderful animals as you explore the park and spot all the adorable new arrivals. There will be fun trails to follow, and free crafts and activities. For more information and to book visit www. aspinallfoundation.org/howletts

April

Easter Craft, Canterbury Heritage Museum, CT1 2NR

Bluewater Egg Trail, Greenhithe, DA9 9ST

Sat 1 Apr

Dawn Chorus Walk, Loose Valley, Maidstone ME15 0BL 5–8am. Join the annual local dawn chorus walk, and enjoy one of nature’s spectacular events. Enjoy the song as the resident birds awake, plus a good chance of seeing a kingfisher. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www.rspb.org.uk

Garden Party, Ruxley Manor Garden Centre, Sidcup DA14 5BQ Go along to a garden party event where there will be special offers, Spring food tastings, face painting, tombola, games and barbeque demos and much more. Free event. For more information visit www.ruxleymanor.co.uk/

International Bear Day, Port Lympne Reserve, Nr Hythe, CT21 4PD 9.30am-5pm. Help celebrate International Bear Day and see the stars of the day, adorable spectacled bear pair, Oberon and Rina. For more information and to book, visit www. aspinallfoundation.org/port-lympne

11am–5pm. Have fun colouring in a beautiful Easter Egg, then search the museum for interesting Easter facts and complete the puzzle to win a reward. Charges apply. For more info visit www.canterburymuseums.co.uk

Sat 1 - Sun 2 Apr

Easter Egg Hunt Weekend, Dover Transport Museum, CT16 2JX Join the Easter egg hunt at the museum for a great day out. The museum is home to many forms of vintage transport and also features vintage shop fronts. For times and more information visit www. dovertransportmuseum.org.uk

Dog Walk & Campfire Challenge 1-4pm.Walk your dog and then join in by the campfire to toast the ultimate marshmallow. For more information visit www. riverhillgardens.co.uk

Sooty Show, Kent Life, Maidstone, ME14 3AU Go along and watch The Sooty Show in the Big Top, stay around and catch the magic show too. Charges apply. For more information visit www. kentlife.org.uk

Sat 1 – Thurs 13 Apr Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have the latest details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure they haven’t changed

Easter Holiday Family Fun, Ightham Mote, Nr Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT (Themed Thurs 11am-3pm). Keep the kids entertained during the holiday with a Spring Activity Pack, craft activities and the chance to go wild in the play area. Normal admission applies. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ighthammote

Sat 1 – Fri 14 Apr

Easter Trail, Ruxley Manor Garden Centre, Sidcup DA14 5BQ

Have fun finding the twelve Easter bunnies hidden around the store. One winning entry will be chosen on 15 April to receive to receive £25 of vouchers to spend in the Toy Department. A free event. For more information visit www.ruxley-manor. co.uk/

Sat 1 – Sun 16 Apr

Alice in Wonderland Circus Adventures, Groombridge Place, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 9QS

10am-5.30pm. Meet the Mad Hatter, Alice, The Queen of Hearts, Cheshire cat and of course the forgetful White rabbit! A day packed full of fun activities with a circus themed twist. A great day out for all the family to enjoy. For more information and to book visit www.groombridgeplace. com

Sat 1 – Mon 17 Apr

Spring into Easter, Kentlife, Maidstone, ME14 3AU

Go along and meet the baby animals and have a go at bottle feeding some of them. Keep an eye out for the Easter bunny for some yummy treats. There will also be a variety of shows in the Big Top. For times and more information visit www.kentlife.org.uk

Cadbury Easter Egg Trail Rabbit, Friends and Relations, Chartwell, Westerham, TN16 1PS 11am–4pm. Help bunny find the missing members of the Churchill family around the home of Sir Winston. Along the way, you’ll discover what their nicknames were before tucking into a chocolatey treat. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell

Extraordinary Days Out, Port Lympne Reserve, Nr Hythe, CT21 4PD

9.30am-5pm. Explore Dinosaur Forest, meet the spectacular Spinosaurus and journey through time as you follow our special Dinosaur trail. Throughout the holidays take part in free craft, games and activities as well as the special Easter trail. For more information and to book visit www. aspinallfoundation.org/port-lympne

Easter Quest, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL

Seek out Easter clues hidden around the Leeds Castle grounds on a fun Easter quest for all the family. Answer all the questions and receive a chocolatey treat at the end. For more information and to book visit www. leeds-castle.com

Cadbury Egg Hunt, Knole, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP

10am–5pm. Collect your trail map and follow the Cadbury bunny’s trail through Knole’s medieval parkland,

For lots more Roundabout ideas see page 10...

For thousands more ideas visit www.primarytimes.net

Colour Run 2017 A4 poster RG.pdf 1 20/01/2017 11:16:28

THANET 5K

COLOUR RUN

HOLIDAY COACHING COURSES

Sunday 14 May 2017

Our holiday courses offer a range of coaching activity for girls and boys from the age of 5 upwards. Courses are held at a range of venues across the County. Coaches are ECB L2 qualified and hold DBS and First Aid qualifications.

Oval, Palm Bay, Cliftonville, Margate

Canterbury Christ Church University Date

Time

Age

Suitable for

4th April

10-2pm

5-9 years

mixed ability

Cost

5th April

10-3pm

10-13 years school & club cricketers

£20

6th April

10-1pm

14+ years

£30

£16 C

school & club cricketers

Medway Brompton Academy

CMY

4th April

10-2pm

5-9 years

5th April

10-3pm

10-13 years school & club cricketers

£20

6th April

10-1pm

14+ years

£30

mixed ability

£16

school & club cricketers

Please bring a packed lunch and drinks with you. Wear whites or a t-shirt and tracksuit bottoms with non-marking trainers.

01843 233934

Please contact Heidi Coleman for further detail:

* heidi.coleman.kent@ecb.co.uk ) 01227 473618 Online booking is available at: www.kentcommunitycricket.co.uk/play/coaching-camps

DEVELOPMENT TRUST

karen.kenward@pilgrimshospices.org

*Entry just £16 before 7 May. On the day £20. Children under 11: £10. Entry includes white tshirt, paint sachet, glasses and supporter’s medal Proudly supported by

Registered Charity No. 293968. Pilgrims Hospices in East Kent is a company limited by guarantee.

Easter Holiday Fun!

Tuesday 4 - Thursday 13 April

Get creative at our fun craft workshops 3 sessions per day 10:30, 11:30 & 13:00

£3 per child, 2 for £5 Suitable for ages 4 - 11 years Book on arrival

facebook.com/MaidstoneMuseum @MaidstoneMuseum p 01622 602838

www.maidstonemuseum.org Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent Primary Times - quarter pg 90mm x 135mm h PROOF 2.indd 1

20 Mar - 14 May ‘17 3/2/2017 10:47:55 AM

Family Theatre

Quarterhouse Folkestone Box Office: 01303 760 750 19 Mar

Family theatre guide Astor Deal Box Office: 01304 370 220 13 Apr

Oliver in the Overworld

The first ever musical created from scratch with sign language. It’s a funny, surreal, picaresque tale of a little deaf boy who travels to the Overworld. Suitable for both deaf and hearing audiences.

Avenue Sittingbourne Box Office: 01795 471 140 5 Apr

A Real Alien Adventure

Shadow puppetry, projections and aliens all make for a fun filled show full of wonderment for the whole family. Ages 3+.

Gulbenkian Canterbury Box Office: 01227 769 075 25 Mar

Peter and the Wolf

This is the story of a mischievous boy living with his grandfather. Find out how this clever boy with his animal friends triumphs in this classic tale. Ages 4+.

16 Apr

Monday’s Child

10 May

Horrible Histories: The Best of Barmy Britain

Box Office: 01227 787 787 2 Apr

Mr Bloom’s Nursery

Bring your tiddlers along and join Mr Bloom and the Veggies on their first ever live tour. Mr Bloom and his Veggies are getting the nursery ready for a very special occasion. 8

8 – 9 Apr

The Little Mermaid

Featuring all of the much loved elements of the TV show, Mr Bloom will be joined by all his gardening friends. A show with educational values which will entertain parents and tiddlers alike.

4 Apr

29 – 30 Apr

Bad Guys

Join Spot Bots stars The Three Half Pints in a hilarious new comic misadventure, perfect for families. Ages 5-11.

17 Apr

Box Office: 01303 228 600 6 Apr

Primary Times!

Mr Bloom’s Nursery

11 – 4 May

Leas Cliff Hall Folkestone

Theatre Royal Margate

Join Ben and Holly, and their friends on this exciting, enchanting and magical musical adventure packed full of games, songs and laughter. This beautiful story of elves, princesses and childhood innocence will delight all the family!

13 Apr

The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her Mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door, a big stripy tiger. Ages 3+.

Magic duo Morgan and West present a brain boggling show for all the family full of tricks, mysterious magic and silliness. Age 5+.

We all want to meet people Box Office: 01843 292 795 from history. The trouble is 25 Mar everyone is dead! Could you The Sooty Show beat battling Boudicca? Will you Expect magic, music and lose your heart or head to mayhem with buckets full of Henry VIII? The history audience participation. A Enjoy of Britain with the spectacular treat for Sooty nasty bits left in. the show! fans old and new, plus a And don’t chance to meet Richard Marlowe forget to say and Sooty after the Canterbury show. you saw it in

A simple poetic story of the unique bond between an old woman and a little girl. Together in a dream like garden, they sing and dance as they joyously explore a treasure trove of memories.

The Tiger who came to Tea

Utterly Spiffing Spectacular Magic Show for Kids and Childish Grown-ups

Comedy Club 4 Kids

The best comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best… but without the rude bits.

A Strange New Space

Featuring original music, puppetry and dance this is the brand-new, non-verbal solo show from children’s theatre expert Tessa Bide.

31 May – 3 Jun

Running Wild

Michael Morpurgo’s novel, based on a true story, is brought to lush life with extraordinary heart, vibrant colour and exceptional creativity, wowing audiences of all ages and critics alike. Ages 6+.

20 Mar - 14 May ‘17

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt

Join the intrepid family of adventurers and their musical dog on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud.

Assembly Hall Tunbridge Wells Box Office: 01892 530 613 5 Apr

Goldilocks & the Three Bears

Bringing this classic children’s story to life, Goldilocks & the Three Bears is the perfect opportunity for your little ones to enjoy live ballet, music and theatre for the first time.

6 – 7 Apr

Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom

Join Ben and Holly, and their friends on this exciting, enchanting and magical, musical adventure packed full of games, songs and laughter.

14 – 16 Apr

The Little Mermaid

A laugh-a-minute Easter family pantomime from Wicked Productions. Make a splash and join them under the sea.

E M Forster Tonbridge School Box Office: 01732 304 241 22 – 23 Mar

Robin and the Sherwood Hoodies Journey into the depths of Sherwood Forest and discover the truth behind the legend of Robin Hood in this musical comedy and enjoy a riotous romp through the medieval mayhem of Merry England.

1 Apr

Ballet Central 2017

See the company’s young and dynamic dancers on the cusp of their professional careers showcasing newly commissioned works and celebrated masterpieces.

29 Apr

Pat-A-Cake Baby

Little children will love this creative Long Nose Puppets show full of riotous rhyme, songs and music.

The Woodville Gravesend Box Office: 08442 439 480 10 - 11 Apr

The Little Mermaid

Wicked Productions return with their musical adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s, ‘The Little Mermaid’. This show is sure to warm your cockles and win the hearts of your little sea urchins.

12 Apr

The First Hippo on the Moon

From Number One bestselling children’s author David Walliams comes an explosively funny space adventure. Two big hippos. One enormous dream. Who can make it to the moon first? Ages 3+.

13 Apr

The Amazing Bubble Man From fog-filled, helium-propelled rocket bubbles to tornado bubbles, the Bubble Man conjures shrieks of laughter and gasps of amazement from all ages.

Running Wild THE CHILDREN’S TOURING PARTNERSHIP PRESENTS

“Anim magic al War H rivals orse.” THE G UAR DIAN

WED 31 MAY - SAT 3 JUN

A spectacular adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s novel.

marlowetheatre.com (bkg fee) 01227 787787 (bkg fee)

12 April

WEDNESDAY 2.30pm THE AUDITORIUM

Illustrations © Tony Ross, 2014 Author’s name branding © Quentin Blake, 2010

From Number One bestselling Children’s author David Walliams comes an explosively funny space adventure for children of 3 and up. Two big hippos. One ENORMOUS dream. Who can make it to the moon ﬁrst? 3...2...1...BLAST OFF! David Walliams has taken the literary world by storm and his brilliantly funny stories

www.woodville.co.uk

Box Office

08442 439 480

Woodville Place, Gravesend, Kent, DA12 1DD

are adored by children the world over! This is a fantastical adventure featuring puppetry, music, mayhem and a giant space race to the moon! Age recommendation 3+

Tickets ADULTS

£18.50

UNDER 16s

£14.50

FREE EVENING PARKING FROM 6pm

Tweet us at like us on @TheWoodville Facebook /WoodvilleGravesend

20 Mar - 14 May ‘17

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary across the Spring season

April and historic courtyards. Solve the clues and claim your chocolate prize before the deer beat you to it. Charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/knole

Rabbits, Riddles and Rhymes - The Big Easter Break, Penshurst Place, Tonbridge, TN11 8DG

Your sleuthing skills are needed to help unravel the riddles left by the Easter Rabbit. Will you help to decode his clues in time for Easter? You can write your own riddle, make a pair of rabbit ears and help to colour in our giant story poster. For more details and to book visit www. penshurstplace.com

Easter Trail, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

Enjoy family entertainment throughout the Easter holidays including an Easter bunny hunt, Easter trail, bonnet making workshop and best bonnet parade. For more information visit www.hevercastle. co.uk

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt - Lubbock Lamb, Emmetts Garden, Sevenoaks, TN14 6BA 11am-4pm. The Lubbock Lamb has escaped from his pen. Can you find out where he has escaped to? Complete the trail to earn your Cadbury reward. Charges apply. For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/emmetts-garden

Easter Fun at the Farm, Hop Farm, Tonbridge, TN12 6PY

9am–5pm. Enjoy all day indoor soft play, outdoor adventure play and crazy golf. There will be egg-citing Easter games for the kids. And you can get close to our gorgeous lambs and chicks. Meet Peppa Pig and George on 5 Apr too. For more information visit www.thehopfarm. co.uk

Sat 1 – Sat 22 Apr

Bittern Breakfast, RSPB Dungeness Boulderwall Farm, TN29 9PN 7-10am. Go on a sunrise walk and listen to the distinctive call of our booming bitterns echoing from the reed beds. Jump out of bed, join in for an experience to remember, and round it all off with a tasty cooked breakfast. For more information and to book visit www.rspb.org.uk

Sun 2 Apr

No Worries, Wrap and Weave, Turner Contemporary, Margate, CT9 1HG

(Also 16 Apr) 1–4pm. Learn about the Shaman Legend of the Worry Dolls and create your own wrapped up Worry-Person using fabric, threads

and recycled materials. Drop in. Charges apply. For more information visit www.turnercontemporary.org

Sevenoaks Rotary 10k Run, Knole Park, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP 11am. The Rotary Club is hoping to raise at least £12,000 from entries of which ellenor will receive 25%. Join them in this vital fund raising. There will be a fun run at 10.15am. For more information visit ellenor.org

Walk with a Warden, Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve, Sevenoaks, TN13 3DH 10.30am-12.30pm. A family friendly guided walk looking for signs around the reserve. Fun activity sheets for the children to enjoy. Booking essential. For more information and to book visit www.kentwildlifetrust. org.uk

Sun 2 – 16 Apr

Family Fun, Betteshanger Country Park, Deal, CT14 0BF There will be lots happening over the holidays including a Donkey Day on 2 Apr, Betteshanger Basecamp on 3-7 & 10-13 Apr, Bunny Hop Masterclass on 8-9 Apr, Savage Skills Bike Stunt Team on 9 Apr and an Easter Egg Hunt on 14-16 Apr. For more information and to book visit www.betteshanger-park. co.uk

Mon 3 Apr

Family Mondays, Knole, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP

“

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

”

Mon 3 – Thurs 6 Apr

Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Bluewater Shopping Centre, Greenhithe, DA9 9ST

Catch a Story Time performance of Goldilocks and Three Bears to keep your children entertained while you buy the Easter treats at Bluewater. For more information visit www. bluewater.co.uk

Mon 3 – Fri 7 Apr

Explorer Backpacks, Canterbury Cathedral, CT1 2EH Pick up an Explorer Backpack to embark on a family quest around Canterbury Cathedral. Use your binoculars and magnifying glass to investigate tombs, monuments and stained glass. Then take part in a fun drawing challenge. Ages 3-12. For more information visit www. canterbury-cathedral.org

Medieval Story Garden, Canterbury Tales, CT1 2TG 11am-3pm. (Also 10–14 April). Learn about Medieval Medicine in the herb garden and Maypole Dancing. Be knighted after taking lessons at Knight School. Admission charges apply. For more information and to book visit www.canterburytales. org.uk

Ruxley Rascals: Daisy the Bunny

Animal Puppets, Maidstone Museum, Maidstone, ME14 1LH

10.30am, 11.30am and 1pm. Join in the fun and make a felt animal puppet. Simply drop in on the day to book. Ages 4+. Charges apply. For more information visit museum.maidstone. gov.uk

Caribbean Storytime, Rochester Library Community Hub, ME1 1EW 10.30–11.30am. Part of Legacy, a season of free lyrical and literature events, rooted in African and Caribbean culture. Take part in Caribbean Storytime with Anansi The Spider and Brer Rabbit for 3-12 year olds. Book in advance, call 01634 337 799 or visit the library.

Rocking Rockpooling, Lower Leas Coastal Park, Folkestone, CT20 2JP 11am. Go along and explore the amazing reef and rocky shore of Lower Leas Coastal Park. For more information visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Victorian Tropical Service Helmet, Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham, ME4 4UG 10.30am-1pm and 1.30-3.30pm. Use the hunt trail for historic headgear and be inspired to create your own Victorian Tropical Service Helmet. Ages 3+ Charges apply. For more information visit www.re-museum. co.uk

Tues 4 – Fri 7 Apr

Grow your own Quex Mystery, Quex Park and Powell-Cotton Museum, Birchington, CT7 0BH

(Also 10 Apr) 11am-3pm.Visit Knole on Family Mondays during the Easter holiday for a range of Spring themed activities. Create some wild art and learn how to make a home for a wild animal Charges apply. Ages 5-12. For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/knole

Create your own Daisy the Bunny with soft fur and cute floppy ears, a favourite for any bunny lover. Session includes soft bunny lining, stuffing, birth certificates, star wish, bunny activity sheet and crayons. For more information visit www.ruxley-manor. co.uk

(Also 11-14 Apr). Join in this Easter to find out more about the fruit and vegetables that grow in the Walled Garden. Then decorate your own plant pot, sow your mystery seed and see what mystery Quex goody you grow. For more information visit www.quexpark.co.uk/events

Wildcraft, Oare Gunpowder Works Country Park, Faversham ME13 7UD

Mon 3 – Sun 9 April

Easter Fun, Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre, ME7 3PD

Tues 4 – Thurs 13 Apr

11am-1pm and 2-4pm. Makendoo return with their popular Easter art and craft workshops. Children can decorate an Easter card or a flower pot and plant a sunflower seed. Also paint a bunny mask, chick, egg or butterfly. For more information visit www.hempsteadvalley.com

10.30am–3.30pm. (Selected dates). Join the hands on family craft activity to make an Easter Helmet for Norman the Knight. Charges apply. For more information call 01634 332 901 or visit www.enjoymedway.org

10am–12noon, 1-3pm. Get involved in some wild craft using natural materials to create your own masterpiece. For more information visit www.medwayvalley.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

20 Mar - 14 May ‘17

Tues 4 Apr

Bug Road Show, Romney Marsh Visitor Centre, TN28 8AY 10am–3pm. See and handle giant millipedes, stick insects, katydids, cockroaches, leaf insects and giant moths to name but a few and discover lots of facts about them. Ages 5+. For more information and to book visit www.kentwildlifetrust. org.uk

Make an Easter Helmet, Rochester Castle, ME11 1SW

Easter Holiday Fun, Maidstone Museum, Maidstone, ME14 1LH 10.30am–2pm. Go along and enjoy a host of activities including make your own felt puppet, decorate a suncatcher, make an Easter basket and much more. Charges apply. Ages 4+. For more information visit www. museum.maidstone.gov.uk

For lots more Roundabout ideas see page 18... Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

Fun Days Out this Spring Once in the lab, the fun begins.Young scientists will find out about the tiny world of the atom and the electron, have hairraising fun finding out what happens when exposed to 100,000 volts of electricity and learn about the pulling power of magnets, including discovering how to make their own. It’s fun for all the family in Doc.Yard’s Secret Lab, open at weekends and school holidays (and for school visits during the week). To find out more, please visit www.thedockyard.co.uk

Electrifying Science Fun

The Historic Dockyard Chatham’s popular “Doc.Yard’s Secret Lab” is open to visitors with a brand new electrifying experience. It’s open in the Easter holidays and beyond all the way up until the May Bank Holiday (Monday 1 May). Young (and not so young) budding scientists can experience a 45 minute hands-on visit to the eccentric Doc Yard’s Secret Lab in the company of the equally eccentric assistant Bunsen. In the Prep room, all young scientists will don lab coats and stylish safety specs ready to enter the Lab. Can the children pass the ‘are you a bright enough spark’ test to enter Doc’s atomic research facility? And can the Adults pass a test of their own?

Easter Family Fun at Hever Castle

For some magical family moments this Easter, hop through Hever Castle Gardens on the trail of the Lindt Gold Bunny to win an adorable miniature fluffy bunny.There’s family entertainment throughout the Easter holidays from 1-17 April designed to put a spring in everyone’s step. Besides joining the hunt to find the Lindt Gold Bunny, children can make and decorate an Easter bonnet at daily craft workshops (for a small additional charge). There’s an opportunity to parade your creations in front of the Castle each day with treats for the best Easter bonnets. Enjoy more family fun inside the Castle where you can take part in a fun Easter quiz.

20 Mar - 14 May ‘17

Fun Days Out this Spring

The Easter event is also a great opportunity to explore the award-winning gardens surrounding Hever Castle. At this time of year visitors can enjoy a dazzling display of flowers along the moat and in the Italian Gardens from late flowering daffodils to hyacinths and blossom. As well as fun Easter themed activities and the gardens to explore, why not challenge yourself in the Yew Maze and see how long it takes you to find the way out? Then round off the day with seasonal home cooked food and mouth-watering cakes in the restaurant followed by a visit to the Gift Shop stocked with Easter goodies including Lindt chocolate eggs and treats. Normal admission charges apply. For more information please visit the website www.hevercastle.co.uk or call Hever Castle on 01732 865 224. Photo Credit: Hever Castle & Gardens

Greenwich Tall Ships

Visit The Tall Ships festival over the Easter Weekend 13-16 April in the Royal Borough of Greenwich. There will be four days of live entertainment, fireworks, ships visits and cruises. Expect a great event which will close on the Sunday with the Parade of Sail as the fleet of Tall Ships head out along the river to sea. Greenwich Borough will come alive with maritime entertainment, live music and fireworks to mark the start of the Rendez-Vous 2017 Tall Ships Regatta – a transatlantic race organised by Sail Training International. Around 50 young people have been awarded places as Sail Trainees on the first leg of the race from Greenwich to Sines in Portugal During the festival there will be over 30 tall ships along the Greenwich riverfront and the public will be able to visit some of them via the piers. Others can be visited by a shuttle service ferrying people out to visit the bigger ships in deeper water. This is in addition to the Tall Ships Cruises which can be booked via www.timeout.com. There will be two festival villages, one in Royal Woolwich Arsenal and one in Maritime Greenwich where shore side attractions will include live music, historical re-enactments, street entertainers, children’s activities, traditional funfair rides, street food stalls and bars as well as evening fireworks To find out more about the Tall Ships Festival, head over to www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk.You can also keep up to date with what’s going on with all announcements about the event at the royalgreenwichtallships Facebook page.

Eggstraordinary Days Out

Join the team at Port Lympne Reserve during the Easter Holidays to enjoy ‘eggstraordinary’ big days out! Explore Dinosaur Forest and meet their newest prehistoric creature – the spectacular Spinosaurus and journey through time as you follow the special Dinosaur trail! On Saturday 1st April, Port Lympne will be celebrating International Bear Day and the adorable spectacled bear pair, Oberon and Rina will be the stars of the day. 12

20 Mar - 14 May ‘17

Throughout the holidays, you’ll be able to spot the cute new Spring arrivals, take part in free crafts, games and activities, meet Education Presenters for fun and fact-filled talks, watch Easter themed animal enrichments and take part in our special Easter egg trail competition to win fantastic prizes. For more information please visit www. aspinallfoundation. org/port-lympne.

Visit Wildwood

Wildwood is a great day out for all ages where you can see over 200 British animals in 40 acres of stunning ancient woodland. See bears, wolves, otters, foxes, deer, badgers, owls, wild horses, lynx, beavers, wild cats, bison, squirrels, wild boar, reindeer and many more as you walk around the twisting trails through ancient British woodland. Finish your day by letting your kids go wild in the

14th to 17th April Join our Robin Hoodie trail this Easter and help him in his quest to save Maid Marion. Whilst you explore the gardens and enjoy the fun-filled ‘Walking Theatre’ adventure, keep an eye out for Robin Hoodie, Maid Marion and the merry band of naughty outlaws.

Easter Quest | 1st to 17th April Seek out Easter clues hidden around the Leeds Castle grounds on a fun Easter quest for all the family. Answer all the questions and receive a chocolate reward.

leeds-castle.com

Join Wildwood’s experts at weekends and school holidays for free close-up animal talks and feeds when you can learn all about the animals. While you’re there, why not visit the Beaver Lodge Cafe or enjoy a picnic in the spacious picnic areas. Wildwood is not just a wildlife park but is also a unique conservation project which aims to protect our native wildlife and bring back the original wild wood. When you visit, you will be helping to protect some of the UK’s most endangered animals.

Fun Days Out this Spring

amazing adventure play park featuring Kent’s tallest vertical drop slide, zip wire, wild fort, twisting tube slide and treetop towers. There is also a special area for under 5s.

Come along and enjoy four days of music, ships visits, river cruises and evening fireworks

WILDWOOD KENT

Visit Wildwood this Easter

Meet the bears, wolves, lynx and many more native British The animals from past and present! ect

per f ra place fo ay Find out more at d www.wildwoodtrust.org family out! Phone: 01227 712 111

For further information or to book a river cruise: www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/tallships

10% ONLINE

DAY TICKETS

Open 7 days a week 10am - 4pm, Mon-Sun

Ticket Prices

Join us for a journey through the history of Britain’s best loved toys! Featuring rare products from the Hornby,

Adults - £5 Child (Ages 3 - 15) and OAP-£2.50 Family - £12.50 (2 Adults and up to 4 children)

Scalextric, Airfix and Corgi archives. Don’t miss the spectacular Model Railway and Scalextric layouts, the Hornby Retail Shop offers an extensive range of Hornby, Scalextric, Airfix, Humbrol and Corgi products.

Keep an eye on our Facebook page and our website for fun Easter events and exciting offers at Just the Ticket Café and the Visitor Centre!

www.hornby.com/visitorcentre I Tel: 01843 233524 E-mail: visitorcentre@hornby.com WESTWOOD I MARGATE I KENT I CT9 4JX On the A254 Ramsgate Road, between Westwood Cross Shopping Centre and Margate.

www.facebook.com/ hornbymodelrailways

ASPINALLFOUNDATION.ORG

Explore The UK’s Largest Outdoor Dinosaur Attraction

See Our Adorable Spring Arrivals

01303 264647

20 Mar - 14 May ‘17 16/02/2017 16:00

Enjoy Kent’s Only Safari Experiences

Fun Days Out this Spring

National Mills Weekend

The National Mills Weekend is the annual festival of milling heritage and provides you with a fantastic opportunity to visit mills, many of which are not usually open to the public. This year the festival will take place on the 13 and 14 May. The theme for this year is engineers and engineering - celebrating the engineers and millwrights who built mills and their machinery. Until the advent of the steam engine, wind and watermills provided the only source of power for many different processes from making flour, paper and cloth, to hammering metal and extracting oils.You can explore mills that used to or still do produce these products, some restored to working order, some derelict and some still working commercially. The National Mills Weekend is a great opportunity to take the family on a fun day out and to learn about the heritage of these buildings. Some of the locations may also be running special activities alongside the event, so check the website to see what is happening near you. For more information, visit www.nationalmillsweekend.co.uk.

A Vaudevillian Extravaganza

This Easter weekend’s Festival of Steam and Transport (16 and 17 April), is set to dazzle visitors with a variety of show stopping entertainment: Classic transport displays, two days of live music, running steam trains, jugglers, dancers, side shows, comedy, food, drink, merriment and much much more. The ‘Star of the Show’ is a traditional funfair, free with ticket purchase, that visitors can ride again and again all day. One price, one extraordinary day, one big adventure. Visitors will be entertained by Songsters, Dancers and Jokesters all weekend long with Side Show entertainment on the Dockyard streets. Live music will fill the air and hundreds of classic and vintage vehicles will be on display, to complete the lineup of transport through the ages. Children can let off steam in the indoor soft play and outdoor play areas, and everyone can enjoy the range of food on offer and opportunities to buy that special Easter gift. For the parents, there is an exclusive opportunity to take a walking tour around the location for the popular TV drama series ‘Call the Midwife’ and see how areas of the Dockyard were transformed to become the perfect backdrop for the programme. This Easter weekend, visitors from all ages can discover everything The Historic Dockyard Chatham has to offer. Take a journey through maritime history, warships, galleries and attractions and, for this weekend only, enjoy two days of remarkable family entertainment. Early Bird discount tickets are now available to purchase online. For more information go to www.thedockyard.co.uk/steamandtransport 14

20 Mar - 14 May ‘17

Merton Vintage Show

If you’re not sure what to do on the May Day Bank Holiday, why not visit the Merton Vintage Show, the biggest vintage show in Kent. This spectacular three day annual event is at Faversham Showground, ME13 9HY (just off the M2/A299). There is something for everyone.You can spend the whole day/weekend wandering round and, if you fancy letting your hair down in the evening, enjoy live music and a licensed bar in the heated beer tent. There will be various trade, craft, auto jumble and boot stalls for you to explore, as well as plenty of food bars and a licensed beer tent for refreshments open all day. There will be in the region of 500+ exhibits covering tractors, small steam engines, stationary engines, commercial, cars, motor bikes, military, living vans, displays (collections) and last but not least, a full size steam engine. See some of these exhibits in their full working glory in the range of arena events. There will also be plenty of other displays around the show site, which include men recreating Old Time British Wrestling, ferret racing, 4 x 4 club (with a difference), terrier racing (any dog can have a go, so don’t leave yours at home), Magic/Punch & Judy (daily), Wall of Death, Magic Al (Juggleitall) and Magic & Fire Show, as well as stilt walking, juggling and a fully working vintage cider press where you can watch apples become cider (you can have a taste if you’re over 18) and much, much more. Visit the Merton Vintage Show for a huge range of attractions on 29, 30 April and 1 May at the Faversham Showground. Go to www.mertonvintageshow.co.uk for more details.

One click an m away fro ary in d e x t r ao r

day!

EASTMEORN SUN & 2017

Visit Howletts this Easter for some eggcellent family fun and to make unforgettable family memories! Discover wonderful animals as you explore the park and spot all the adorable new arrivals. Howletts will be holding free fact-packed animal talks every day at various locations around the park, plus free activities and crafts. There will be fun trails to follow, so you can find out more about how they send animals born at the park back to protected areas of the wild.You could even win a Junior Ranger or Keeper Merton Academy Experience when Vintage Show you enter Howletts’ free 29th, 30th April, competitions. & 1st May Faversham Showground The popular Treetop (Just oﬀ M2/A299) Staple St. ME13 9HY (near old Farming World) Challenge and Animal •Trade, Craft & Boot Stalls• Adventure Challenge will •Fun Fair • Beer Tent• •Arena Events•Tractors• also be open every day • Military•Wall of Death• throughout the holidays, •Terrier Racing•Steamers• •Cars•Old Time Wrestling• so you can test your skills •Magic/Punch & Judy• on the exciting obstacle •And Much Much More!• courses. To find out A Fun Weekend for Everyone! Gates open 9.30am more please visit www. Adults/OAPs £6.00, Kids £2.50 aspinallfoundation.org/ Free Parking - Disabled Facilities Contact 01227 731473 or howletts. www.mertonvintageshow.co.uk

14TH GOOD FRIDAY AY 17 TH APRIL EASTER MOND

En Eastejoy our “ Red r panto! R Hoodiding ”

Fun Days Out this Spring

Howletts Wild Animal Park

Bunny ★ Meet the Easter s nt hu cy oc ★ Go on ch tunnel ng bi m la r ou it ★ Vis ng ★ Go pig raci 01233 861493 RAREBREEDS.ORG.UK

10% OFF ONLINE DAY TICKETS

active in 2017 Explore the great outdoors this Easter Family fun

Event highlights

Cycling Walking & running Nature & wildlife Play area Archery Fossil hunting Geocaching Den building Forest school Obstacle course Military-style fitness

Donkey Day Sun 2nd April Betteshanger Basecamp Mon 3rd – Fri 7th April & Mon 10th – Thu 13th April Bunny Hop Masterclass Sat 8th & Sun 9th April Savage Skills Bike Stunt Team Sun 9th April Easter Egg Hunt Fri 14th – Sun 16th April

Come and find us Betteshanger-park.co.uk Sandwich Road, Deal

TO FIND OUT MORE AND BOOK ONLINE VISIT

/howletts

Betteshanger Park Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

20 Mar - 14 May ‘17

Hundreds of primary schools across the UK have chosen to join the Mary’s Meals movement and learn more about their work. An Education Officer works with primary schools to ensure teachers have the resources they need to share the Mary’s Meals story with children of all ages. Mary’s Meals would love to work with your school. If you would like to find out more about their work, get in touch via email schools@marysmeals.org – they’d love to hear from you! More information can be found online at www.marysmeals.org.uk

Save the Children’s Den Day Returns

Education Education Education Outdoor Learning in Canterbury

Set in the beautiful Westgate Gardens, Canterbury City Council’s ‘Wild about Westgate’ programme enriches the National Curriculum by bringing learning outcomes to life through hands on practical activities. The ‘Wildlife Olympics’ programme integrates Key Stage 1 and 2 science and physical education objectives. Learn about life processes, adaptations and feeding relationships through nature themed green games. Children can take part in the mini-beast marathon and food chain challenge which combine team fun, exercise and learning. Situated next to the Westgate Towers, the Westgate Parks are rich in heritage and wildlife. Children can discover the hidden life of the Great Stour River by dipping for creatures and identifying them through a game of bingo. Key Stage 2 groups will learn how some of the clever creatures are adapted to live in their watery world. Other programmes include the Great Stour River study, mini-beast safari, Iron Age homes and Roman hotels, Geo-caching and Forest School. New for 2017, you can hire a room in the Westgate Towers or part of a converted church, all within a stone’s throw of the beautiful Westgate Parks. To find out more and download the 2017 programme and price list visit www.westgateparks.co.uk/outdoor-learning-programme. You can also contact Anna Bell from the Kentish Stour Countryside Partnership on 07850 715 596 or email westgate.parks@kent.gov.uk

Changing the World, One School Meal at a Time

Mary’s Meals provides daily meals to more than 1.1 million of the world’s poorest children every day they attend school. The nutritious meals enable children to attend school and learn so they can work towards a more prosperous future. The impact of these daily meals is clear. Independently verified studies have shown that after a year of serving Mary’s Meals, school enrolment increased, attendance improved and teachers reported their pupils were more hopeful for the future. The work of Mary’s Meals began in Malawi in 2002, when the charity set up its first school feeding programme, supporting around 200 children. One of those children was Veronica, who is now studying Education and Business Studies at college.Veronica told Primary Times, “When you are hungry, you cannot be able to think. I used to go to school without food. After receiving Mary’s Meals I was active and able to listen to what the teacher say.” For young people such as Veronica, Mary’s Meals can break down barriers to education and help unlock their future. Mary’s Meals is a grassroots movement, which relies on the dedication and kindness of thousands of volunteers, fundraisers and supporters. In Malawi alone, more than 80,000 community volunteers take turns to cook and serve the meals for the children. Thanks to this cost-effective model, it costs just £13.90 to provide a child with Mary’s Meals for a whole school year.

20 Mar - 14 May ‘17

Save the Children’s Den Day, an educational interactive fundraising event for schools, is returning for a third year on Friday 16 June. Den Day calls on schools to join in with a creative, fun adventure as pupils build dens together and raise money to ensure children have a safe place to sleep and play. In 2016, 600,000 children signed up to take part helping to raise funds to support Save the Children’s work helping vulnerable children across the world. Schools can sign up now at www.DenDay.org to receive fund raising kits containing everything they need to hold a fun-filled day in the summer term. The kit includes posters, stickers, den ideas and great teaching resources to link Den Day into the curriculum and school’s plans. Teaching resources are designed to fit with the KS1 and KS2 curriculum, encouraging creativity and teamwork, while pupils learn about the challenges that some children face around the world and how their fundraising will help. Schools can raise money however they like, helping pupils get sponsored for their denbuilding or simply asking all pupils to make a donation for taking part. There are lots of ideas in the free fundraising kit. Right now, millions of children do not have a safe place to sleep or play. Save the Children does whatever it takes to reach children caught up in conflict, fleeing war or persecution or living rough on the street. Help build a better world by raising money and signing up at www.DenDay.org Photo credit: Jonathan Cherry/Save the Children

Outdoor learning in Canterbury The Westgate Parks ‘Wild About Westgate’ programme offers school visits for all ages and abilities. The landscape is both rich in heritage and wildlife providing the perfect setting for outdoor learning. All sessions are linked to the national curriculum and we offer programmes of study for: Early Years Key Stages 1,2,3,4 & 5 Forest School for all ages

For more information visit our website: westgateparks.co.uk/outdoor-learning-programme Call Anna Bell on 07850715596 Or email westgate.parks@kent.gov.uk

Join thousands of teachers and children across the country celebrating the benefits walking brings during this year’s Walk to School Week, 15 – 19 May. Challenge your school to walk every day during Walk to School Week and make a real difference to your children’s happiness and wellbeing. Get your school involved by ordering a Walk to School Week 2017 challenge pack. Each challenge pack contains everything needed to run the fiveday walking challenge for a class of up to 30 pupils, including a classroom wall chart, teacher and pupil wall chart stickers, pupil activity diaries and teacher instructions. This year’s challenge will take pupils on an imaginary journey from the dramatic skylines of the city, via rolling countryside, to charming coastal areas. Each day, activities and games will enable pupils to explore key features of each environment, whilst also enjoying the many benefits of a daily walk to school. Step up the fun during Walk to School Week by taking part in Happy Shoesday. On the Tuesday of Walk to School Week, raise money for Living Street’s walking projects by wearing your happy shoes and donating £1. Shiny, decorated, colourful, cartoon, gorilla feet - whatever has you smiling on your walk to school. Register your school and Living Streets will send you a free fundraising pack, plus all sorts of fun materials to help make running the day a big success. Find out more about Walk to School Week and order your challenge pack at www.livingstreets.org.uk/walktoschoolweek or call 020 7377 4908.

Kumon in Broadstairs

A new Kumon study centre has opened in Broadstairs and will offer Kumon’s unique maths and English programmes to children of all ages and abilities. Established for over 60 years, the programmes enable children to develop their study skills and confidently tackle advanced work. As an introductory offer the study centre is offering half price registration throughout April 2017, on production of its dedicated advert in this edition of Primary Times. Kumon develops children through the acquisition of independent learning skills, rather than teaching in the conventional sense.Your child will therefore be equipped with the ability to learn for themselves so they do not become dependent on – or limited by – the skills and knowledge of others. The Broadstairs Study Centre is located at Canterbury Christchurch University - Broadstairs Campus, Northwood Road CT10 2WA, with classes running on Friday from 4.30pm to 6.30pm and Saturday 9.30am to 12:30pm. For more information and to find out what your child can achieve on the Kumon programmes, contact Instructor Susan Baylis on 01843 650 843 or email broadstairs@kumoncentre.co.uk.

Education, Education, Education

What is Walk to School Week?

New centre now open Kumon’s maths and English study programmes work to build your child’s confidence and inspire a passion for learning. Contact your local Instructor for a free assessment.

Broadstairs Study Centre 01843 650843 kumon.co.uk

Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.

Ramsgate

AWARD-WINNING

Free School

Ramsgate Free School will be relocating to its new modern, spacious building for September 2017. Limited places are available.

Academy Trust

EducationInvestor

Awards 2016

For more information telephone 01843 582847 or go to our website www.ramsgatefreeschool.co.uk to find out more. facebook.com/RamsgateFreeSchool

20 Mar - 14 May ‘17

twitter.com/RamsFreeSchool

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary across the Spring season

April

For more information and to book visit www.wildlifetrust.org.uk

Wed 5 Apr

Equator: African Drumming and Singing Worshop, Horsbridge Centre, Whitstable, CT5 1AF

2pm. A hands-on session learning and playing southern African drum patterns and rhythms combined with singing some simple African songs. A short performance by our lead artist from the performance group U’Zambezi will follow the workshop. For more information and to book visit www.horsebridge-centre.org.uk

Bushcraft, Oare Gunpowder Works Country Park, Faversham ME13 7UD

Suncatchers, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH

10.30am-2pm. Go along and enjoy decorating a suncatcher to catch the Spring sunshine. A drop in and book on the day session. Charges apply. Ages 4+. For more information visit museum.maidstone.gov.uk

MKII Second World War Helmet, Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham, ME4 4UG

10.30am -1pm and 1.30pm-3.30pm. Drop in and be inspired to create your own soldiers MK II Helmet complete with camouflage covering

10am–12noon, 1-3pm. Join in for a Bushcraft taster session and test out your wilderness skills. For more information visit www.medwayvalley. org

Family Forest Skills Easter Event, Hunstead Wood, Canterbury, CT4 7NT

(Also 11 Apr). 10am-3pm. Learn to make and light a fire. Build your own shelter from natural materials. Decorate a beautiful Easter tree and go in pursuit of the chocolate eggs as you follow the woodland Easter trail.

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

“

Easter Baskets, Maidstone Museum, Maidstone, ME14 1LH

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

”

by using the trail to hunt for historic headgear. Charges apply. Ages 3+. For more information visit www. re-museum.co.uk

Weds 5 – Sun 9 Apr

Chick Stick Puppets, Riverhill Himalayan Gardens, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RR

11am-4pm Go along to a great fun, creative Easter Holiday workshop and design your own stick puppet. For more information visit www. riverhillgardens.co.uk

10.30am-2pm. Join in the Easter fun and make an Easter basket to take home to collect all the lovely eggs. Simply drop in on the day to book. Charges apply. Ages 4+. For more information visit www.museum. maidstone.gov.uk

Alberto Shako Hat, Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham, ME4 4UG 10.30am-1pm, 1.30-3.30pm. Go along and use the trail to hunt for historic headgear and be inspired to create your own Albert Shako Headdress with feathers or a ball plume attached at the top. Charges apply. Ages 3+. For more information visit www.re-museum.co.uk

Fri 7 Apr

Pond Dipping, Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve and Jeffery Harrison Centre, Sevenoaks, TN13 3DH

Thurs 6 Apr

Eco Easter Birds, Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve and Jeffery Harrison Visitor Centre, TN13 3DH

11am–4pm. Join a pond dipping session at Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve to discover what creatures are living in one of the ponds on the reserve. For more information and to book visit www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

10am-1pm. Learn how to use stencils, potato stamps and collage to create your own printed pattern on recycled card. Develop it into an Eco Easter Bird by cutting and folding with leftover pieces to make your bird truly unique. For more information and to book visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

For lots more Roundabout ideas see page 20...

Win Guinness World Records Blockbusters! Goodie Bag Lights, camera, action! Guinness World Records 2017 Blockbusters! is here, packed with the latest records from your favourite films, social media, toys and beyond… Which movies took the box office by storm? Who’s the world’s best-selling kids’ author? Which YouTube stars have the most fans? What’s the most used emoji? The latest edition of Blockbusters! holds all the answers to your need-to-know pop-culture questions. Plus, don’t miss the exclusive challenges for a chance to set your very own blockbuster record! The book is split into six handy sections and each chapter ends with a 'Top 10' page which covers anything from the largest budget movies to the fastest rollercoasters. With each new page come new mind-boggling and exciting facts to enjoy. Out to own from 23 March – pre-order now at http://amzn.to/2lGa6Jw. For more information visit www.guinnessworldrecords.com/blockbusters Primary Times has three 2017 Blockbusters! goodie bags to give away to three lucky Primary Times readers. Each bag contains a copy of the 2017 Blockbusters! book, a backpack, stopwatch, a pair of headphones and a mini chocolate egg basket. 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. 18

20 Mar - 14 May ‘17

N F A S T E

S T M F

B U S T E R S W E A L A R G E O T S

S T T B C

E G G

B B T

C G H B V R Q U K X G N U P

L M V D

R E C O R D S

L K L

D C V G H D R G X R

Block Busters Guinness World Records Fastest Biggest Favourite Largest Facts

B A R V B K L Z L O F

E N N

U G W

Name.................................................................................. Age..................................................................................... Address.............................................................................. ............................................................................................ ............................................................................................ ............................................................................................ School................................................................................. For thousands more ideas visit www.primarytimes.net

Win a box of books for your school

Help Feed the Spring Babies at Blackberry Farm Spring is a very exciting but busy time at Blackberry Farm. With the arrival of all the Spring babies there is lots to do and the busy farm staff could do with a little extra help! Sometimes when ewes have given birth to triplets or twins they can’t produce enough milk to feed all their lambs. This is when your help is needed and you can help by bottle feeding some of the orphan lambs.

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

Enter our competition for the chance for your child and a friend to win a private, pre-opening bottle feeding session with the orphan lambs. Just solve the following anagram: Passing bribe (Hint: look at the title...) For entry details see the bottom of this page.

Win an Amazing Brighton Fringe Package for Your Family Here at Primary Times we are celebrating another year as the Family Friendly Media Partner of the Brighton Fringe and what better way to celebrate than a fantastic competition for our readers. The Brighton Fringe is the largest Arts Festival in England full of a huge variety of fun and quirky events and shows for the whole family to enjoy. It takes place in many venues across Brighton from 6 May to 5 June. We have an incredible prize for the lucky winner. You and your family will win a mini break in Brighton during the May half term. This will include a night’s stay in a family room at the ibis Hotel on the first Sunday of half term [Sunday 28 May]. The ibis Brighton City Centre Hotel is ideally located close to Brighton train station, offering 140 modern rooms with the innovative new ‘Sweet Bed by ibis’ for your ultimate comfort. The prize also includes a meal for four at Polpo. Polpo is a bàcaro. This is a Venetian word to describe a humble restaurant serving simple food and good, young Italian wines. They offer tasty small plates in a setting that reflects the gloriously faded elegance of Italy. On top of all this we are giving away a family ticket [up to 2 adults and 2 children] to two Brighton Fringe family shows of your choice on either Sunday 28 or Monday 29 May [subject to availability].

s t r d n a s y z f

g s h e l l s t g f

h e o b h t t y h u

p a h l j r o c k n

l d g u d l wb f b x y d f s k s m f a

p l f e v a d g n i

i l c a p c e n l r

e c v c s l c s a l

r i a h c k c e d c

Can you find these 10 words: Beach Deckchair Shells Seagull Candyfloss Pier Sea Rock Funfair Sand

To be in with a chance of winning this fabulous prize, all you need to do is complete the word search. Then fill out the form with your details and send them both to Brighton Fringe Competition, Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London, SE12 8LG. Or scan a copy of your completed form and email it to competitons@primarytimes.biz with ‘Brighton Fringe’ as the subject by Friday 28 April. Name ..............................................................................Age ...................... Address ........................................................................................................ ....................................................................................................................... Phone/Email................................................................................................ 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 28 April. If you are entering more than one competition you can put all entries in the same envelope. Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

20 Mar - 14 May ‘17

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary across the Spring season

April African Mahdi Kufi Cap, Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham, ME4 4UG

10.30am-1pm, 1.30-3.30pm. Go along and use the trail to hunt for historic headgear and be inspired to create your own bright and colourful African Mahdi Kufi cap. Charges apply. Ages 3+. For more information visit www. re-museum.co.uk

Easter Trail, Oare Gunpowder Works Country Park, Faversham ME13 7UD

(Also 12 Apr) 10am–12noon, 1pm–3pm. Follow the Easter Bunny’s clues along a self-guided trail to find the treasure at the end. For more information visit www.medwayvalley. org

Fri 7 – Sat 15 Apr

Lindt Bunny Warren, Bluewater Shopping Centre, Greenhithe, DA9 9ST

Visit the Lindt Gold Bunny Warren in the shopping centre at Bluewater to keep your children amused while you stock up on Easter goodies. For more information visit www.bluewater. co.uk

Sat 8 Apr

Big Fish Little Fish, Hall by the Sea, Dreamland, CT9 7PD

2-4pm. A fun big night out for Big kids and Little kids. Bringing together the experience of seasoned clubbers and award winning family activities, it’s a social environment that provides a unique space to play and rave. For more information and to book visit www.dreamland.co.uk

Field Trip, Oare Marshes, Faversham, ME13 0QA

9am. Enjoy a trip to the Reserve which consists of grazing marsh with freshwater dykes, open water scrapes, reed bed, saltmarsh and seawall.You can expect a good variety of bird species; this sight regularly turns up exciting rarities. Free event. For more information visit www.rspb.org.uk

Peppa Pig & Family Fun, Spa Valley Railway, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5QY

history of this beautiful place. For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/white-cliffs-dover

Sun 9 Apr

Spring Walk, Ightham Mote, Nr Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT 10.30am-12.30pm. Join a Spring walk around the estate, spotting bluebells as you go. The walk sets off from the visitor reception. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ighthammote

Mon 10 Apr

Pond Dipping, Oare Gunpowder Works Country Park, Faversham ME13 7UD 10am–12noon, 1-3pm. Go along and discover the mysterious watery world of the mini beast. For more information visit www.medwayvalley. org

Beastie Days, Brogdale, Faversham, ME13 8XZ Hunt and collect bugs in the orchard, meet the Bug Roadshow’s impressive collection of Mega Bugs and get creative and build your very own bug to take home with you. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www.brogdalecollections. org

Easter Make & Take Workshops, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend DA13 9PA 10am–2pm This Easter enter a world of pure imagination as you join in the workshop. Design your own Land of Make Believe door. Ages 3-8. Charges apply. Also at Staplehurst Centre, TN12 9BT. For more information and to book visit www.millbrookgc.co.uk

Mon 10 – Fri 14 Apr

Spring Week, Godinton House and Gardens, Ashford, TN23 3BP 1-4pm. A week of seasonal activities for families to enjoy. With traditional treasure hunt, garden games and children’s crafts. Charges apply. For more information visit http:// godintonhouse.co.uk

Travel by heritage train to see children’s favourite Peppa Pig who will be on hand at Groombridge Station. There will be face painters, Punch and Judy shows throughout the day at Tunbridge Wells West and an arts and crafts table. For more information and times visit www. spavalleyrailway.co.uk

The White Cliffs of Dover, CT16 1HJ 11am–1pm. Join the knowledgeable guide on a gentle walk to South Foreland Lighthouse. Enjoy the fantastic views across the channel whilst learning about the varied

20 Mar - 14 May ‘17

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

”

Ruxley Rascals: Daisy the Bunny, Ruxley Manor Garden Centre, Sidcup, DA14 5BQ

Create your own Daisy the Bunny with soft fun and cute floppy ears, a favourite for any bunny lover. Session includes soft bunny lining, stuffing, birth certificates, star wish, bunny activity sheet and crayons. For more information visit www.ruxley-manor. co.uk

Mon 10 – Sat 15 Apr

Easter Family Fun, Hempstead Valley Shopping Valley, ME7 3PD

Join in with a host of six days of Easter activities. Take part in the Easter Egg hunt and enjoy balloon modelling. For more information visit www.hempsteadvalley.com

Tues 11 Apr

Easter Trail, Cobtree Manor Farm, ME20 7AG

10am-12noon. Have fun and follow the Easter Bunny’s clues along a self-guided trail to find the treasure at the end. For more information visit www.medwayvalley.org

Easter Make & Take Workshops, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend DA13 9PA

10am-2pm. Have fun and enter a world of imagination. Today you will paint a Toadstool Bird Feeder. Also at Staplehurst Centre, TN12 9BT. For more details and to book visit www. millbrookgc.co.uk

Wings, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH

10.30am-4pm. Enjoy a session of arts and crafts, make a set of butterfly or dragonfly wings to wear. Suitable for ages 4+. Simply drop in on the day to book. Charges apply. For more information visit museum.maidstone. gov.uk

Royal Engineers Beret, Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham, ME4 4UG

10.30am-1pm and 1.30pm-3.30pm. Go along and use the trail to hunt for historic headgear and be inspired to create your own Royal Engineers beret with cap badge. Charges apply. Ages 3+. For more information visit www.re-museum.co.uk

A Very Victorian Easter, Tunbridge Wells Museum and Art Gallery, TN1 1JN

10am–12noon, 2–4pm. Take part in a special Victorian egg hunt throughout the Museum & Art Gallery, and find the hidden coloured eggs to win a prize. And make your own Victorian Easter Egg to take away as well. For more information visit www. tunbridgewellsmuseum.org

Family Forest Skills, Hunstead Woods, Canterbury, CT4 7NT 10am–3pm. Join in with the bushcraft and Easter activities at Denstead Wood, nr Chartham Hatch. Learn to make and light a fire. Get creative decorating an Easter tree and go in pursuit of the chocolate eggs as you follow the woodland Easter trail. For more information www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Willow Weaving and Pond Dipping, Bough Beech Visitor Centre, Sevenoaks, TN14 6LD 1-4pm. Come and join a pond dipping session to catch and identify creatures that live in the pond and then weave your own fish out of willow, wool and other natural materials. For more information and to book visit www.kentwildlifetrust. org.uk

Wed 12 Apr

Easter Make & Take Workshops, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend DA13 9PA 10am–2pm. Give a Gnome a home. Enjoy painting and naming your very own gnome. Charges apply. Ages 3-8. Also at Staplehurst Centre, TN12 9BT. For more information and to book visit www.millbrookgc.co.uk

Eggs and Art, Wraik Hill, Whitstable, CT5 3BY 10am-1pm. Join in with some fun Easter activities for the whole family. Make and fly your own kite, decorate an Easter tree to take home and see who can spot the hidden eggs to win a tasty treat. Meet in the Car Park. For more information and to book visit www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Chinese Chao Guan Hat, Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham, ME4 4UG 10.30am-1pm, 1.30pm-3.30pm. Go along and use the trail to hunt for historic headgear and be inspired to create your own Chinese Chao Guan hat covered with red tassels and topped with gem stones. Charges apply. Ages 3+. For more information visit www.re-museum.co.uk

Pond Dipping, Tyland Barn, Maidstone, ME14 3BD 10.30-11.30am.Go along to find and catch a variety of pond life, then get up close and view them through a microscope and identify what you have found. Each participant will get a spotter sheet to take home. For more information and to book visit www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Wed 12 – Mon 17 April Bunny Hunt, Riverhill Himalayan Gardens, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RR

10.30am–4pm. Hunt for the hidden bunnies amongst the rhododendrons and earn yourself some chocolate egg rewards. For more information visit www.riverhillgardens.co.uk

For lots more Roundabout ideas see page 22... Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

Katie

lown’s Bunny Bonanza

Spot 5 Differences A

Rabbit Word Search

R E T E P S R A E C

G E W K C U B T H A

W H O D C N A I O R

O U Y D M I N B P R

R T Z A L C G B P O

R C G L H P R A I T

U H H I M G K R N S

B F L O P P Y W G W

V L J K Y C N U O B

A B W A R R E N B D

Can you find all these words in the word search? Rabbit, Hopping, Tail, Ears, Carrots, Hay, Peter, Bouncy, Chinchilla, Warren, Hutch, Burrow, Doe, Floppy, Buck

How do rabbits travel? By Hareplane!

How can you tell which rabbits are getting old? Look for the grey hares!

What’s a rabbit’s favourite dance style? Hip Hop!

How many rabbits does it take to change a light bulb? Only one if he hops right to it!

Why was the rabbit so upset? She was having a bad hare day!

How many Easter Bunnies can you see?

Draw a picture (no larger than A4) or write a poem about anything to do with ‘the Easter Bunny’ 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:

Answers How many Easter Bunnies?

Send your entry together with this completed form to: Annie's Competition, Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London, SE12 8LG Closing date: 28 April 2017. Good Luck!

Spot the Difference: In Picture B, there is an extra blue flower at the top. The egg shell is blue. The pink egg is missing. There are three rabbits along the bottom left. There is another chick in the middle on the left. 18

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary across the Spring season

April

Easter Fun & Frolics, Rare Breeds Centre, Ashford, TN26 3RJ

Thurs 13 Apr

Spring Mix, Maidstone museum, Maidstone, ME14 1LH

10.30am–2pm. Go along and make your choice from a range of Spring crafts. Drop in on the day to book. Charges apply. Ages 4+. For more information visit www.museum. maidstone.gov.uk

Easter Make & Take Workshops, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend DA13 9PA

10am-2pm. Enter a world of imagination while having fun and make your own magical accessories, choose from wings, a horn or potion pot. Charges apply. Ages 3-8. Also at Staplehurst Centre, TN12 9BT. For more information and to book visit www.millbrookgc.co.uk

1875 FA Cup Football Cap, Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham, ME4 4UG 10.30am-1pm, 1.30pm-3.30pm. Go along and use the trail to hunt for historic headgear and be inspired to create your own 1875 football cap out of felt, complete with tassel. Charges apply. Ages 3+. For more information visit www.re-museum. co.uk

Thurs 13 – Sun 16 Apr Royal Greenwich Tall Ships Festival, Various Locations

Visitors can enjoy four days of river cruises (booking essential), live entertainment, fireworks and ship visits. The event will close on Sun with a Parade of Sail as the fleet of Tall Ships head out along the river to sea. There will also be 2 festival villages, one in Royal Woolwich Arsenal and one in Maritime Greenwich. For more information visit www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/ tallships

Fri 14 – Mon 17 Apr

£1 Weekend, East Kent Railway Trust, Shepherdswell, CT15 7PD Travel for just £1 over the Easter weekend. The four mile round trip takes you on a scenic journey. For times and more information visit www.eastkentrailway.co.uk

Meet the Easter Bunny, join in the chocolate hunt, go pig racing, visit the lambing tunnel and don’t miss the Easter panto ‘Red Riding Hood’. Charges apply. For daily activities and more information visit www. rarebreeds.org.uk

Wildlife Easter Trail, Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve, TN13 3DH 11am–4pm. Go and find clues along the Kingfisher Trail to claim your chocolate prize at the end. For more information and to book visit www. wildlifetrust.org.uk

Easter Wonderland, Broadditch Farm Shop, Southfleet, DA13 9PU A magical wonderland awaits you, where the White Rabbit will enchant you with an Easter Tale and you will receive an egg-citing gift. Booking recommended. For more information and to book visit www.broadditch. co.uk/easter

Mr Fox’s Easter Trail, Tyland Barn, Maidstone, ME14 3BD 12–4pm. Come to Tyland Barn and join in our fun wildlife themed Easter trail. Help Mr Fox to find the clues around the nature park and claim your chocolate prize at the end. For more information and to book visit www.wildlifetrust.org.uk

Easter Snail Trail, Bough Beech Visitor Centre, Sevenoaks, TN14 6LD 12noon–4pm. Join in to find the clues around the oast house and surrounding grounds, then claim your chocolate prize at the end. For more information and to book visit www. wildlifetrust.org.uk

Romney Rainbow Sheep’s Easter Trail, Romney Marsh Visitor Centre, TN28 8AY 11am–3pm. Help Romney Rainbow Sheep to find the clues around the gardens and grounds near the visitor centre then claim your chocolate prize at the end. For more details and to book visit www.kentwildlifetrust. org.uk

Easter Weekend, Sittingbourne’s Steam Railway, ME10 2XD 11am-4pm. Running on all four days, join in celebrating the reopening of the Railway for the 2017 Season. A quick return trip takes about an hour, but you can stay longer and visit the award winning gardens, museum and more. For more information visit www.sklr.net

20 Mar - 14 May ‘17

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

“

Easter Adventures with Robin Hoodie and Maid Marion, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL

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

”

Cadbury Egg Hunt, Sissinghurst Castle Gardens, Nr Cranbrook, TN17 2AB 11am-4pm. Take part in the Cadbury Egg hunt in the grounds of the world famous garden created by Harold Nicolson and Vita Sackville-West. Follow the trail to claim your sweet treat prize. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sissinghurstcastle

Cadbury Easter Trail, Smallhythe Palce, Tenterden, TN30 7NG

Look out for Robin Hoodie, Maid Marion and a merry band of naughty outlaws in the ground for a fun filled ‘Walking Theatre’ adventure of silliness and laughter - perfect for all the family on Easter Bank Holiday weekend. For more information and to book visit www.leeds-castle.com

Wildlife Easter Trail, Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve, TN13 3DH 11am-4pm. Join in at Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve for a wildlife themed Easter Trail. Find the clues along the Kingfisher Trail to claim your chocolate prize at the end. For more information and to book visit www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Snail Trail, Bough Beech Visitor Centre, Sevenoaks, TN14 6LD

11am–5pm. There’s been a breakout. King Bunny’s chocolate army is missing, and now it is up to you to find out where the bunnies are, and who unleashed them. Charges apply. For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/smallhythe-place

12noon–4pm. Join in to find the clues around the Oast House and surrounding grounds, then claim your chocolate prize at the end. For more information and to book visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Easter Adventures Quest, Walmer Castle, Deal, CT14 7LJ

Easter Trail and Crafts, Westgate Parks, Canterbury, CT1 2BX

Sat 15 Apr

10am-5 pm. Go along and meet the King and characters from the past with stories of times gone by. Rise to their challenge and win a reward. For more information visit www.english-heritage. org.uk/visit/places/walmer-castle-andgardens/

10am-3pm. Solve clues to complete the challenge and receive an Easter egg. Make your very own Easter chicks or rabbit faces to take home. For more information visit www. westgateparks.co.uk

Cadbury Egg Hunt, Ightham Mote, Nr Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT

Vaisakhi Festival, Gravesend Town Centre, DA11 0TA

11am-3.30pm. Join in for the annual Cadbury Egg Hunt trail with puzzles and games to keep the family occupied. Find your way around the medieval moated manor and tuck into a delicious prize at the end. Charges apply. For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/ightham-mote

11am–4pm. Another massive street party and a host of religious ceremonies will light up the town, which has celebrated Vaisakhi every year since 1999. For more information visit www.visitkent.co.uk

Cadbury Egg Hunt, Quebec House, Westerham, TN16 1TD

11am-4pm. Explore the house and gardens at General Wolfe’s home. Then travel back to the eighteenth century in the house as it was when his family lived there, then collect your Cadbury bunny at the end. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quebechouse

Cadbury Egg Hunt, Scotney Castle, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 8JN

10am–4pm. Follow the clues around the garden, use your map and find the treasure to claim your chocolate bunny. Charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/scotneycastle

Discover Easter, Brogdale, Faversham, ME13 8QG

Visit the animals and see the live chicks hatch at Easter.You can tour and explore with the whole family on the Easter trail. Take a ride on the Faversham Miniature Railway and get stuck into Easter kids crafts. For more information and to book visit www. brogdalecollections.org

Tame the Flame Dragon Day, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend, DA13 9PA 10am-2pm. Enter a world of imagination, meet the fire breathing dragon and enjoy dragon fun and games. Charges apply. Ages 3-8. For more information and to book visit www.millbrookgc.co.uk

Easter Fun Day, Happy Endings Rescue, Faversham, ME13 0SD 12noon. Enjoy bouncy castle, meet and feed the animals, Easter egg trail. There is also a craft corner and much more. Charges apply. For more information visit www. happyendingsrescue.org

Easter Egg Hunt, Maidstone Town Centre, ME15 6YT 10am -4pm. Go and look for the eggs and discover the Easter Story. Pick up a map available from Fremlin Walk and the Mall. For more information visit www.waypointmaidstone.org.uk

For lots more Roundabout ideas see page 24... Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

Indicates a book is part of a series

Bookstore

STAR READ

Thunder Struck - Ali Sparkes (Oxford, £6.99)

Alisha and Theo had just met when they were both struck by lightening. Luckily they both There’s more than a hint of magic in my latest selection, survived, but it had a big impact on their lives, leaving them able to see ghosts.They are luckier not to mention ghostly activity, chocolate and some than the two young ghosts, Doug and Lizzie, they very determined youngsters coping with extraordinary meet who were killed by a lightening strike.The four form the Strike Club and are getting used to being together when situations. Have fun! things take a darker turn. Aisha and Theo realise not all ghosts are Counting With Tiny Cat - Viviane Scwarz (Walker Hb, £11.99) friendly when they start seeing sinister, faceless grey ghosts peering I love this book! Tiny cat must love red balls of wool in at them at school. Could bits of stone with Latin inscriptions have to have so many. He starts to count with them, but anything to do with them? Are the pupils at their school at threat it isn’t as easy as it ﬁrst seems, in fact he gets into from an old peril and if the Strike Club can work out what is going quite a muddle. This very clever, book has hardly any on, will they be in time, or capable of, averting a disaster? This is an words, but tells an hilarious, laugh out loud story with unputdownable story full of excitement mixed with some humorous simple, expressive pictures. Great for new or reluctant and spine tingling moments. Fair size print, medium length novel.

Debbie

readers, but fun for everyone.

The Young Magicians and the Thieves’ Almanac - Nick Mohammed (Puffin, £6.99)

Mr Bunny’s Chocolate Factory - Elys Dolan (Oxford, £6.99) Mr Bunny runs a very successful chocolate factory thanks to his hard working chicken employees. Despite making him very rich, he isn’t satisﬁed and wants more, insisting his workers work faster for longer.This makes them tired and causes accidents until they have had enough and go on strike. Rather than listen to them he tries to run the factory on his own — resulting in a disaster.Will the chickens go to his rescue? Will he learn the error of his ways? Will Debbie be found? The answers are in this very funny, thought provoking picture book with just a few sentences on each page and detailed pictures adding much to the story. Perfect for beginner readers.

A Race for Toad Hall - Tom Moorhouse (Oxford, £5.99) S Ignoring its reputation for being haunted,Teejay, Mo and ratty enjoy exploring the run down Toad Hall. On one excursion they accidentally fall into a tunnel and discover an ice house with a very surprising occupant — none other than Mr Toad who, it turns out, had been frozen for over a hundred years.There are plenty of shocks in store for him, not least of all the run down state of his home, and the fact it had been sold ready for demolition. Luckily being frozen hasn’t subdued his spirit and he sets out to protect his heritage — with a LOT of help from his new friends who thankfully are much less rash and more sensible than he is. This is the ﬁrst in ‘The New Adventures of Mr Toad’, a series revisiting a much loved character, bringing him up to date. He is as bombastic and funny as ever. Large print and pictures on every page make this a good bridge from picture books to novels.

Louie in a Spin

Rachel Hamilton (Oxford, £5.99)

Despite the best efforts of his friends, Louie persists in seeing the best in people and is totally oblivious to any bad feelings or negative actions against him. He is also unaware of his own limitations, especially when it comes to dance. He is delighted when he is chosen to represent his school in the ballet section of a competition that is very important to Madame Swirler, even though it is a mistake. Despite many disasters during rehearsals he is still convinced he can win, although no one else shares his belief. See if he can overcome all the odds in this latest ‘Unicorn in New York’ story with all the fun, laughs and adventures of the previous stories. Large print and hilarious illustrations add to the story making this great for newly developing and reluctant readers.

The Ghost Light

Zack, Jonny, Sophie and Alex are young magicians who meet on a Magic Circle induction week. Each with their own skills, they immediately bond and are disappointed to ﬁnd how much the president seems to dislike young magicians and is against them joining the Circle. Being rather adventurous and keen rule breakers, at least Zack is and the others follow, they discover all is not well and the society is in ﬁnancial trouble. When a seemingly impossible crime is committed, Zack works out it can only have been done using magician’s tricks. Is a member of the Circle a thief? The friends set out to discover the truth which involves a search for a secret book and a couple of death defying stunts — at least they hope they defy death! This is a gripping story full of humour and magic with well rounded, likeable, quirky characters.There are many surprises and breath taking moments in this full length novel.

The Dragon with a Chocolate Heart Stephanie Burgis (Bloomsbury, £6.99)

Sarah Rubin (Chicken House, £6.99)

In her latest adventure, Alice Jones is helping out with a new production for the re-opening of the Beryl Theatre when seemingly ghostly activities threaten the cast. Alice accepts her sister Della’s request to investigate so she can prove ghosts don’t exist. As she delves in to the theatre’s past an unsolved mystery is revealed. Could this have something to do with current events? She is sure there is a plot to stop the theatre re-opening and thinks she has discovered who is behind it, but is all as it seems? Once again aided, and sometimes hindered by Kevin, Alice unravels the clues one at a time, giving would be detectives the chance to see if we can solve the case before her. This is as absorbing as the ﬁrst book in the series, full of excitement and suspense. Full length novel.

Aventurine is a brave, adventurous young dragon who rebels against family restrictions by going out on her own to capture a human.Things don’t go exactly to plan when the human she ‘captures’ tricks her into drinking magical chocolate which turns her into a human. This leaves her with a passion for chocolate and a very different, limiting, body to come to terms with. She has lost none of her spirit and, learning the human city has chocolate houses, sets out to ﬁnd one. After many false starts and causing quite a bit of chaos, she succeeds in becoming an apprentice to a chocolatier surprisingly making human friends and realising the amazing similarities between humans and dragons. But what will happen when her dragon family come to get her? Will she have to take sides or can she stop a very dangerous situation developing? Find out in this hugely entertaining story full of surprises. Fair sized print, full length novel.

The Secret Keepers - Trenton Lee Stewart (Chicken House, £6.99)

Reuben lives in a run down part of the city controlled by an evil being called ‘the Smoke’. No one ever sees him, but his ‘Directions’ frighten people into doing his will. When Reuben ﬁnds an old pocket watch he is amazed to discover it has an incredible power that can turn the holder invisible. This makes him feel invincible for a while until he realises he is in great danger as the Smoke is after the watch. Setting out to discover its origins, he meets an amazing family keeping a big secret. With the help of two of them Reuben sets out to achieve the impossible — to outwit the Smoke and destroy his power. There many more surprising discoveries to be made on the way and mortal dangers to face. This is a long novel full of twists and turns with many surprises and heart stopping moments. It will keep you guessing to the end. For older, capable junior readers.

20 Mar - 14 May ‘17

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary across the Spring season

April

Sun 16 Apr

Easter Trail and Crafts, Westgate Parks, Canterbury, CT1 2BQ

10am-3pm. Follow a self-led Easter trail and solve clues to complete the challenge and receive an Easter egg. Also make your very own Easter chicks or rabbit faces to take home. Ages 4-12. For more information and to book visit www.westgateparks. co.uk

Sat 15 – Sun 16 Apr

Easter Afternoon Tea, Dreamland, Margate, CT9 1XJ 12noon–2pm. Enjoy the delight with a traditional afternoon tea, held in a beautiful restored 1920s ballroom. A perfect setting to enjoy an array of scones, cakes and finger sandwiches. For more information and to book visit www.dreamland.co.uk

Easter Egg Hunt, Belmont House and Gardens, Faversham, ME13 2BX

12noon-3pm. Take the family along this Easter to enjoy an afternoon of activities. Explore the gardens and search for Easter eggs to get your very own treat. Charges apply. For more information visit www. belmont-house.org

Sun 16 – Mon 17 Apr

Happy Hopper Storytelling, Penshurst Place, Tonbridge, TN11 8DG

2–3pm. Settle in for a cosy Easter tale inside the historic home with Aardvark Productions, who have a wonderful story to share with you about a very silly Easter rabbit. For more information visit www. penshurstplace.com

Sat 15 – Mon 17 Apr

Broadstairs Food Festival 2017, Pierremont Park Grounds, Broadstairs, CT10 1JX 10am–5pm. This fair brings together over 50 Kent food and drink producers. Children’s art activity and face painting will be available and an Easter bonnet competition will be held. For more information visit www.broadstairsfoodfestival.org.uk

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

Are you psyched about science? Do you love to learn? Whether your child is crazy for chemistry or bananas about biology (or let’s face it, just likes making a mess), this book is full of experiments and projects that will get kids really excited about science. Dawn Isaac’s new book is full of creative (and occasionally outrageous) ideas for budding young scientists. All projects are screen-free and hands-on, a welcome change from being glued to a TV or phone! Whether they want to launch a rocket, blow a square bubble, discover their own DNA or build a balloon powered racing car, there’s a whole wealth of fun suggestions to keep kids amused, and you never know, they might learn something along the way. Best of all, most activities can be completed with little or no adult supervision, so it’s perfect for the holidays. Plus any materials needed are either in the store cupboard, cheap or junk! ‘101 Brilliant Things For Kids To Do With Science’ is available now from £14.99, and with 224 pages of fun and creativity, you will never be stuck for things to do with your child. 20 Mar - 14 May ‘17

Sat 29 Apr

Dawn Chorus and Moth Breakfast, Bore Place, Chiddingstone, TN8 7AR

”

Festival of Steam and Transport, The Historic Dockyard, Chatham,

There will be steam displays, traction engines, travelling Locomotives and classic/vintage cars displayed, and you will see an array of festival entertainment including traditional steam funfair, live music, street acts and much more. For more details and to book visit www.thedockyard.co.uk

Sat 22 Apr

Birchington Indoor Fair, The Village Centre, CT7 9EG

9am– 12noon. Go along and have a fun day out and help to raise vital funds To find out more about the event call 01303 862 622 or visit www.lordwhisky.co.uk

Birds at Hothfield Heathlands reserve, Nr Ashford TN26 1HD

101 Brilliant Things For Kids To Do With Science

“

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

nationaltrust.org.uk/sissinghurstcastle

9–11am. Ian Rickards, Ashford Area Warden for Kent Wildlife Trust leads this walk looking for birds such as tree creepers, woodpeckers, linnets, and possibly even the first cuckoo of the year. For more details and to book visit www.kentwildlifetrust. org.uk

The English Festival, Riverside Country Park, Gillingham, ME7 2XH 11am-5pm. Enjoy a fun packed free day out for the whole family celebrating the most iconic and ironic of English traditions. For more information contact 01634 333 333 or visit www.enjoymedway.org/ events/english-festival

Hanami Festival, Brogdale, Faversham ME13 8XZ

Enjoy a Japanese exhibition, Japanese performances, and Japanese food and children’s activities to celebrate Hanami the Japanese Festival dedicated to cherry blossom. For more details visit www. brogdalecollections.org/hanami

Sun 23 Apr

Bluebell Cream Tea, Poulton Wood, Aldington, Kent TN25 7DT

12noon–4pm. Enjoy the beauty of the wood, brimming full of Bluebells and enjoy a tasty homemade cream tea. For more information visit www. rarebreeds.org.uk

Mon 24 Apr

Bluebell and Wildflower Walks, Sissinghurst Castle Gardens, Nr Cranbrook, TN17 2AB

2pm–4pm. (Also 29 Apr). Take a guided tour of the estate with the ranger team and enjoy the sight and high scent of this colourful season. Cream tea included. For more information and to book visit www.

5.15-8am. Get up with the lark and join us for a wander through the beautiful woods to experience spring song at its finest. Afterwards warm up with a spot of tea and toast before checking the moth trap to see what’s flown in overnight. To book and for more information visit www. boreplace.org

Pond Dipping, Tyland Barn, Maidstone, ME14 3BD

2-3pm. Join in for a great family event - a one hour pond dipping session to find and catch a variety of pond life. Then get up close and view them through a microscope and identify what you have found. Every participant will take away a spotter sheet. For more details and to book visit www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Dawn Chorus Walk, Vinters Valley Nature Reserve, Maidstone, ME14 5EH

5.30am. Go along to hear and see a number of bird species found in the reserve. The bird spotting team will help you identify the different birds and their song. A free event, however donations would be appreciated. For more information visit www. vintersvalley.co.uk

Saturday Craft Club, Tunbridge Wells Museum and Art Gallery, TN1 1JN 10am-12pm, 2-4pm. A free drop-in craft sessions for all ages - children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. April’s theme is Feathery Friends. For more information visit www.tunbridgewellsmuseum.org

Sat 29 Apr – Mon 1 May May Day Festival, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge TN8 7NG

Traditional celebrations to welcome in the spring from the mythical Green Man of folklore and Jack-inthe-Green plus Maypole dancing on the Castle forecourt. For more information visit www.hevercastle. co.uk

Sweeps Festival, Rochester Town Centre, ME1 1LX

This three day spectacular event celebrates the 19th Century Sweeps annual holiday. Highlights include Morris dancers and entertainment throughout. For more information contact 01634 333 333 or visit www. enjoymedway.org/events

Spring Activity Pack, Ightham Mote, Nr Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT 10am–4.30pm. Have fun outside with our Spring activity pack (free web download or £2 from reception) and tick off some of your 50 things to do before you are eleven and three quarters. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ighthammote

For lots more Roundabout ideas see page 26... Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

t ’ a s h N e w W We’re Going on an Egg Hunt Activity Book

Can you ﬁnd all the Easter eggs and help the Easter Bunnies get through the maze to escape from the wolf? This super activity book is bursting with colouring, puzzles, games and over 100 lovely stickers. Based on the bestselling We’re Going on an Egg Hunt, there will be plenty to keep you occupied over the Easter holidays. Laura Hughes’ beautiful illustrations jump off the pages and children will adore the cute springtime animals. It costs £4.99 from bookshops or online.

The Pirate Craft Book

Entertaining your little buccaneers can be a treacherous job but Laura Minter and Tia Williams have come up with a swashbuckling solution – The Pirate Craft Book. Packed to the gunnels with a whole heap of crafts to allow you to create everything your little pirate needs, ‘The Pirate Craft Book’ contains 15 fantastic pirate-themed projects that will get children crafting and creating in no time. Aimed at boys and girls aged 3+, all of the projects can be made either from readily available items or from easy-to-source materials. As well as pirate projects to wear and essential pirate accessories, there are also pirate-themed cakes and nibbles to make too. Each project comes with beautiful photos and easyto-follow step-by-step instructions. If you want to keep your ship out of Davy Jones’ Locker and avoid being marooned by boredom ye best be buying ‘The Pirate Craft Book’, available from selected high street and online retailers at £6.99.

My Doodles Hooded Rucksack

The Great Easter Egg Hunt Kit

Toilet Trouble

Playmobil Easter Eggs

The ‘My Doodles Hooded Rucksack’ is perfect for weekends, school, days out, or holidays away.With the Hooded Rucksack, your child can carry their lunchbox for school, their favourite stories and games for the journey or even their picnic for a walk. If it starts to rain, you’ll be prepared with the handy attached hood, just pop it up and on to keep their heads dry. When adventure calls on that walk to school or at the seaside, children can have fun becoming a shark or an owl. ‘My Doodles Hooded Rucksack’ retails at £6.99 and is available in many high street and online retailers.

Filled with suspense and excitement, Toilet Trouble from Hasbro is a new hilarious game for both kids and families. The aim of the game is to flush but be the last player left without getting sprayed. Players take turns spinning the toilet paper roll which will dictate how many times each player must flush the toilet handle. If the player hears the flushing sound, but no water is sprayed they are safe, but watch out for the random spray of water as that player will be eliminated. Toilet Trouble is available from retailers on the High Street and online.

For a true Easter celebration, an Easter egg hunt is a must. The Great Easter Egg Hunt Kit makes sure you have everything you need to set up your celebrations in your garden, or in the house. Simply follow the footprints and signposts to become the greatest Easter egg hunter ever. The kit includes seven signs, four sets of bunny footprints, eight tasty treat bags to stash your chocolate eggs in and one golden egg. The Great Easter Egg Hunt Kit, available on Amazon, is a fun and easy way to make this Easter ‘egg-stra egg-citing’, and at £8.50, it’s a bargain too.

Playmobil’s ever-popular gift eggs are back with four new themes for Easter – Dragon Warrior, Queen Moonbeam with Pegasus, Kite Surfer and Tightrope Walker. The egg is a perfect alternative to chocolate, with each colourful egg containing a brand new character and fun accessories. The gifts eggs can be used all year round to store beloved Playmobil characters, keepsakes and secret treasures, with a slot underneath to help children saving their pocket money. Give your children an Easter present that will last longer than Easter day and provide entertainment for hours on end. The eggs retail at a very reasonable £6.99 and are available online or at selected high street retailers.

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary across the Spring season

April Merton Village Show, Faversham Showgrnd, ME13 9HY There will be various trades and crafts for you to explore. There will be 500+ exhibits covering tractors, small steam engines, stationary engines, cars, motorbikes and much more. Also enjoy stilt walking, juggling and a Magic and Fire show. For more information visit www. mertonvintageshow.co.uk

Sun 30 Apr

Bluebell Walk 2017, Heart of Kent Hospice, Harrietsham Village Hall, ME17 1AP

Begin your 6 mile walk anytime between 8.30am and 10.30am amongst the Bluebells on the North Downs. Afterwards, refuel with a bbq and refreshments and enjoy some light entertainment around the village hall. For more information and to register visit www.hokh.org

Sun 30 Apr – Mon 1 May

May Bank Holiday Weekend, Penshurst Place, Tonbridge, TN11 8DG

10.30am- 6pm. Refresh your woodcraft and outdoor skills with Camp Wilderness, who will be camped deep within the Woodland Trail, waiting to greet you with crackling fires, camping hacks and a host of bushcraft skills to teach you. For more information visit www. penshurstplace.com

Bank Holiday Family Fun Ightham Mote, Nr Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT

10am–4pm. Follow marvellous mice cousins Angelina and Henry on their camping trip in the garden. Join the children’s literature favourite and tick off number 45 of your 50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾. Charges apply. For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/ightham-mote

Sun 30 Apr – Tues 2 May

Spring Activity Pack, Ightham Mote, Nr Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT 10am-4pm. Explore the wider Ightham Mote estate and complete some of your 50 things challenges as you go. Pick up an activity pack from reception and run off steam in the natural play area. Charges apply. For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/ightham-mote

your garden looking wonderful this Summer. Charges apply. For more information visit www.belmonthouse.org

Wed 3 May

Estate Walk, Bluebells, Godington House and Gardens, Ashford, TN23 3BP

3-4pm. Join Nick Sandford, Estate Manager for a walk around the wider estate. Wellington boots or walking boots recommended due to uneven ground. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit godintonhouse.co.uk

Sat 6 May

Boot & Spring Fayre, Park House, Canterbury, CT4 6AN Boot Fayre 8am. Go along to raise some vital funds needed. There will be entertainment at 12noon including live music. Lots of fun for the children including pony cycles, pony rides and more. For more information visit www.lordwhisky. co.uk/news-and-events

Enbosu Family 3D Workshop, Rochester Art Gallery, Medway, ME1 1LX

10.30am or 1.30pm. Join artist Wendy Daws for a hands-on 3D making workshop inspired by her exhibition. Free but places must be booked in advance. Ages 7+. For more details and to book call on 01634 338 319 or email arts@medway.gov.uk

Boot and Spring Fayre, Park House, Stelling Minnis, CT4 6AN

8am-3.30pm. Go along to this event and help raise much needed vital funds for this great cause. For more information visit www.lordwhisky. co.uk

Sat 6 – Sun 7 May

Spring & Bluebells, Knole, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP

2-5 pm. Discover the joys of spring with beautiful views during this six mile guided family walk. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/knole

Blancpain GT Series Sprint Cup, Brands Hatch Circuit, Longfield, DA3 8NG

Top talents race against each other in the most exotic racing cars from Ferrari, Lamborghini, BMW, McLaren,

May Mon 1 May

Spring Fair, Belmont House and Gardens, Faversham, ME13 2BX

11am-4pm. A perfect way to spend a Spring day and a great opportunity to get some advice on how to get

20 Mar - 14 May ‘17

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

”

and more. Expect plenty of frantic action as the drivers look to climb the order. For booking and for more information visit www.brandshatch. co.uk

near you visit www.museumsatnight. org.uk

Sat 20 May

The White Cliffs of Dover, CT16 1HJ

11am–1pm. Join the knowledgeable guide on a gentle walk to South Foreland Lighthouse. Enjoy the fantastic views across the channel whilst learning about the varied history of this beautiful place. For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/white-cliffs-dover

Sun 21 May

Motors by the Moat, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME14 1LH

Friends of Quex Family Fun Day, Quex Park and PowellCotton Museum, CT7 0BH

Sun 7 May

Tree Trail Launch, Westgate Parks, Canterbury, CT1 2BX

10am–12noon. Take a leisurely walk to take in the wonderful spring blooms on offer in the fields and woodlands. Learn how to identify a few common species or just soak up the sights and sounds of some of the resident wildlife. For more information and to book visit www.boreplace.org

Sat 27 May – Sun 4 Jun

Get up close to hundreds of vintage, high performance and classic cars from around the world. The cars will be displayed on the Castle lawns with plenty of entertainment for the whole family to enjoy. For more details and to book visit www.leeds-castle.com

Wildflower Ramble, Bore Place, Chiddingstone, TN8 7AR

Tues 9 May

Walk with the Warden – Migrant Birds, Bough Beech Visitor Centre, Sevenoaks, TN14 6LD

9.45am–12.30pm. This Spring walk is at a great time to see migrant birds and resident breeding birds, look at spring flowers and if the weather is sunny you may see early butterflies like the orange tip. For more information and to book visit www.kentwildlifetrust. org.uk

11am-4pm. Enjoy a day of family entertainment with live music, dancing, theatre, magic, falconry, inflatables and art and craft activities. Charges apply. For more information visit www.quexpark.co.uk/events

Go along for a free, fun and creative day of activities. The new trail was devised with students from Simon Langton Girls’ Grammar School. Activities include ‘Postcards from Precious Places’ and Expression Art which is suitable for ages 8+. For more information visit www. westgateparks.co.uk

Half Term Crafts, Smallhythe Place, Tenterden, TN30 7NG

11am-1pm. (except Tues). Join in the arts and crafts in the garden and decorate a special memory with a handmade photo frame or fashion a kite to have fun with in the spring breeze. For more information and to book visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ smallhythe-place

50 Things Family Trail, Emmetts Garden, Sevenoaks, TN14 6BA

Sun 14 May

10am-4pm. Explore the garden and find best spots to tick off some of the 50 things activities. Charges apply. For more information visit www. nationaltrsut.org.uk/emmetts-garden

11.30am. Raise money in this explosion of colourful fun run which takes you along Palm Bay. Walk or jog through the brightly coloured paint clouds as you pass through each colour station. After finishing you will receive a medal. For more information visit www. pilgrimshospices.org/colourrun

Mon 29 May

Pilgrims 5k Colour Run, The Oval, Cliftonville, Margate, CT9 2GB

Rainbow Run 2017, Mote Park, Maidstone, ME15 7SU

Get behind Heart of Kent Hospice with friends and family by taking part in Kent’s most colourful and messy event of the year. Register now for the Early Bird option for family bookings that are made before Monday 3 April. For more information visit www.hokh.org.

Wed 17 – Sat 20 May

Museums at Night, Various Locations

A UK-wide festival which seeks to encourage visitors into museums, galleries and heritage sites by throwing their doors open after hours and putting on special evening events. For more information and to find an event

Tudor Costume Demonstrations, Knole, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP

Go along to Stone Court to see how a Tudor lady dressed in many layers of costume for a visit to court, including replica handling items used by wealthy people in the sixteenth century. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org/knole

Our next copy deadline is

28 April 2017.

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

listings@ primarytimes.biz

Good Work Page Ella Easton Millns aged 5

Libby Bird aged 10 Jessica Blackwell, Theodore competitions in our February Half Term magazine. Congratulations to the following people who won and the Darkness Hex Lee Amy s. won copies of Geek's Guide to Britain book Blakesley, Rosie Chitham and Koppany Csamajtin Alicia Roberts. Betty and on Gord Matthew & Emma Seaber, Kane winners were Amara & Raema Cook, Marziyah Raza, son Harri etts. ah Puttock won tickets to Howl If you would like to see Brady won tickets to Port Lympne Reserve. Hann World at Richmond Theatre while Matthew saur Dino your work displayed van Rensburg won tickets to see and Henry Kampjes won Trolls DVDs. here then just send us a Clarke, Alannah Wessels, Grace Haler, Theo Glee Annie's Colouring Competition and drawing, poem, riddles, Ella Easton Millns aged 5 won the age 4-7 years to all our winners and enjoy the jokes or short story and our older winner was Libby Bird aged 10. Well done we'll do our very best to artwork and poem on this page. include it. Send it to: Good Work Page Primary Times 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG

Thank you to Niladri Kar for his imaginative drawing, Jewel Jacob for her lovely rainbow picture, Suhasini Tapadar for her fun China Dragon picture and Maya Topolski for her detailed Harry Potter picture. We love seeing your work so do please keep sending it to us.

Easter Holiday Activities at Swallows Leisure Centre & Sheppey Leisure Complex

• Easter Arts & Crafts Session Mon 3rd

• Street Dance School Tue 4th

• Kickstart Football Tue 4th & Thu 13th

• Roller Disco Fri 7th

• Aqua Challenge Tue 4th, Thu 6th, Tue 11th & Thu 13th

• Giant Inflatables (Sports Hall) Tue 11th

• Cinema Trip - Pete’s Dragon Thu 6th • Meet Flame the Dragon Fri 7th • Cinema Trip - Angry Birds Mon 10th

• Meet and Greet – Spiderman! Thu 13th • Easter Egg Hunt Thu 13th • Splash Attack Pool Inflatable Everyday • Soft Play Everyday

www.swaleleisure.com Swallows Leisure Centre Central Avenue, Sittingbourne, Kent, ME10 4NT Tel: 01795 420420 /SwallowsLeisure @SwimInSwale

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