East Kent October Half Term 2019 Primary Times by Alison Watson

What’s On Where

38,000 COPIES FOR FAMILIES OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN

East Kent

The mother of all pantomimes! The Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury

HALF TERM FUN • THEATRE • LOCAL NEWS • COMPETITIONS

OCTOBER HALF TERM 2019 14 OCT - 24 NOV 2019 ISSUE 120

Competitions

Competitions Win a VIP Experience to See Beauty & The Beast at the Hazlitt Theatre

This Christmas, join the Hazlitt Theatre, Maidstone for a tale as old as time - Beauty & the Beast. Share the next spectacular pantomime adventure. Go along and see if the Beast finds love before the last rose petal falls. With lavish scenery, sparkling costumes, e ??????? to give away to dazzling special effects and rip-roaring comedy routines guaranteed to have you . For your chance to win, ?????????. Send your answer torolling in the aisles, this beast of a panto is a must-see for the whole family. th your name, age, Win a family ticket to VIP opening night and phone number to of Beauty & the Beast on Friday 29 tition, Primary Times, November. This night is by invitation ews, London SE12 8LG only. Doors open at 6pm and the together with your details to evening is sponsored by Biddenden Vineyards providing free drinks and The primarytimes.biz with ubject by Friday 27 September. Village Hotel serving canapes. After the show, meet the full cast! Plus, included in the prize, to celebrate their new children’s menu, feast on a £100 voucher to treat the family at Côte Brasserie Maidstone.

For your chance to win tell us where the Hazlitt Theatre is.

To enter see details below.

Design the Primary Times Christmas Card! Every year, we at Primary Times send out thousands of Christmas cards and we’d like you to help us create the picture for this year’s card. It can be any picture you like to do with Christmas in some way.You might like to make it Father Christmas, a snowman, Rudolf with his red nose or maybe a nativity scene.You can draw or paint your picture on an A4 or A5 piece of card or paper. Our picture shows our card from last year which was designed for us by Gabriel Eufrasia from Blean Primary School. See the bottom of this page for details of how to enter but please note that the closing date for this competition is

Friday 8 November. Teachers and schools are very welcome to send in a whole class’s entries in a single envelope.The winner will see their design used for the Primary Times Christmas card and will also receive fifty copies of the card with envelopes.

Win an Abominable Merchandise Bundle DreamWorks Animation and Pearl Studio’s co-production ‘Abominable’ takes audiences on an epic 2,000-mile adventure from the streets of Shanghai to the breathtaking Himalayan snowscapes. When teenager Yi encounters a young Yeti on the roof of her apartment building in Shanghai, she and her mischievous friends, Jin and Peng, name him ‘Everest’ and embark on an epic quest to reunite the magical creature with his family at the highest point on Earth. But the trio of friends will have to stay one-step ahead of Burnish, a wealthy man intent on capturing a Yeti, and zoologist Dr Zara to help Everest get home. Abominable is in UK cinemas from 11 October. Primary Times has exciting Abominable merchandise bundles to give away to ten lucky readers. For your chance to win, simply tell us which city Yi first encounters the Yeti in. Please see the bottom of the page for details on how to enter.

Win a box of books for your school

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

To enter any of the competitions send your answer along with your name, age, school, address Abominable COMP.indd 1 and phone number to Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London, SE12 8LG. Don’t forget to include the name of the competition. Alternatively email your answer and details to competitions@primarytimes.biz with the competition name as the subject by Friday 8 November 2019. If you are entering more than one competition you can put all entries in the same envelope. 2

14 Oct - 24 Nov ‘19

Hi Readers Primary Times in East Kent 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG Tel: 01622 522116 Email: office@primarytimes.biz Website: www.primarytimes.co.uk Twitter: @PT_Kent Instagram: @primarytimesse Publishing Editor: Peter Watson Sales: Gill Pearce, Catherine Dillon, Andrew Langridge & Lola Olowofela Listings: Catherine Draisey & Hayley Hughes Production: Alison Watson Office Manager: Chris Blower Administrators: Claire Wood, Tina Love Dunya Simões & Alina McCrone Editorial Assistant: Izy Cheesman Social Media: Rachel Benson Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in infant and primary schools throughout Medway and 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 Medway and 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.

Congratulations on reaching the first half term of the new school year. Hopefully by now school is really familiar and you’re ready for the half term. As usual we’ve searched high and low for fun ideas that are around for the October half term. Lots of them are free to enter so do take a look. Our listings are prepared quite a while in advance which is why we always include contact details. Do double-check before going to any event, we would hate you to be disappointed. If you do go to any of our listings please remember to mention you saw them in Primary Times! With the fireworks season upon us it seemed a good time to remind you about Firework safety. Thank you to Child Action Prevention Trust for their advice. For further information visit www.capt.org.uk 1. Make sure children stand at a safe distance from the bonfire. 2. Keep everyone well back from the display. 3. Never return to a lit firework.

Contents

inside this issue.... News.........................................4 What’s On.................................6 Family Theatre..........................9 Autumn Days Out........................12 Out of School Activities.............. 14 Education.................................17 What’s New............................. 19

4. Never throw fireworks. 5. Keep fireworks in a closed metal box. 6. Always follow the instructions when using fireworks.

All Your Own Work!.................23

Did you know: A rocket can reach speeds of 150mph. Our next magazine will cover all the way from Christmas through to February Half Term so look out for us in your book bag from the week beginning 25 November.

Peter and the Primary Times Team This magazine is audited by BPA Worldwide 38,040 copies - Easter Edition 2019

Halloween Books to Get Children Reading With Halloween just around the corner, what better excuse is there to get your kids reading? Sterling Publishing have released two new children’s picture books, which take classic tales and give them a spooky, Halloween twist. Complete with captivating illustrations and entertaining characters, not only could these books get your children enjoying reading, they could also educate them in some classic titles. For older readers, All-Action Classics have got a great new take on Dracula by Ben Caldwell. In 1897, Bram Stoker gave the world one of literature’s most compelling characters and since then Dracula has thrilled and terrified generations of fans. Now the evil Count Dracula comes alive in an electrifying graphic novel that follows the vampire from his looming and ominous castle in Transylvania to Victorian London. Michael Mucci translates the tale and Ben Caldwell has created actionpacked images, with meticulous attention paid to the finer details in each piece of art, from facial expressions to the historical accuracy of costuming, architecture and heraldry.Young readers will be completely transfixed. This action packed new version of Dracula is available for £7.99 from Amazon.

For younger readers, there is a Halloween take on a classic with Moldilocks and the Three Scares - A Zombie Tale. Written by Lynne Marie and illustrated by David Rodríguez Lorenzo, this book promises to give the classic fairy tale a new creepy lease of life. Forget Goldilocks and the Three Bears in this delightfully zombie-tastic new version of the popular story. Papa Scare (a monster), Mama Scare (a mummy) and Baby Scare (a vampire) live in a haunted house where they eat finger sandwiches and alpha-bat soup. One night, they go out to walk their dog (a bloodhound, of course) to let their soup cool down. While they’re away, in walks the zombie Moldilocks, looking for food, a chair and a bed that’s just right. Kids will love this hauntingly funny story with its surprise ending. Moldilocks and the Three Scares - A Zombie Tale is available for £12.99 online and from all good high street stores. For more information about either book, please visit www. sterlingpublishing.com.

14 Oct - 24 Nov ‘19

Latest News

Be a Hero against Homelessness

Look who’s reading Primary Times... Christopher Biggins is Playing Widow Twankey in Churchill Theatre’s spectacular pantomime Aladdin. Like us, he loves Primary Times! The Churchill Theatre is in Bromley. For more details visit www.churchilltheatre.co.uk

Tasty Eyeballs Recipe!

These white chocolate covered little cakes are eye-poppingly good. The easiest way to make them is with a cakepop mould, which you can pick up from stores or online.

Ingredients (makes approx. 20 eyeballs) For the cake 70g superﬁne caster sugar 70g softened butter A few drops of vanilla extract 2 eggs 70g self-raising ﬂour ½ tsp baking powder Cake-pop mould For the decoration Wooden skewers 200g white candy melts/ white chocolate Blue, green, red, and black food colouring gel Horrid hint: if you

don’t have a cake-pop mould, you can bake the cake in a normal pan, break the cake into crumbs then roll with buttercream into balls.

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Using a

wooden spoon, cream the butter and sugar together in a mixing bowl. Add the vanilla extract, then slowly beat in the eggs. Fold in the ﬂour and baking powder.

2. Grease your cake-pop mould with butter. Use a teaspoon to add the mixture to the bottom of the mould, ﬁlling it to the top. Place the other side of the mould on top. Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

3. With an adult’s help, put the cake pops in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Allow to cool a little, then remove the top of the mould and release each cake pop onto a cooling rack. Leave until completely cool. 4. Push a wooden skewer into each cake

pop. Place the candy melts or chocolate in a microwavable bowl and heat in 30 second blasts in the microwave until melted. Dip and roll the cooled cake pops in the candy or spoon it over them until they are nicely coated.

5. Put the skewers upright and leave to

completely set. If you use white chocolate it may take a bit longer to set.

6. Dip a paintbrush into the blue or green food

coloring and paint a circle onto the cake pops. You could also paint some brown if you like. Leave to dry for about an hour. You may need to do more than one coat to get a good effect. Horrid hint: You could use royal icing instead to cover the eyeballs. Dip them in the same way and allow to harden before painting on the food coloring.

7. Add a black pupil with black food coloring, then some fine red veins. Remove from the skewer to finish. For this and plenty more scarily yummy recipes and to find some horribly fun craft activities see The Horrible Craft Book by Laura Minter and Tia Williams, available online and from all good bookshops for £12.99. Thanks to Gill for testing out the recipe for our office too - they were delicious! 14 Oct - 24 Nov ‘19

What’s On

What’s On Your family diary for October and November Ongoing Until 20 Oct

Junior Parkrun and Betteshanger Bikes, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF (Sun only) 9-10am. Enjoy a free 2k run suitable for ages 4-14. Registration is essential. Then from 10am-11.30am join the weekly cycle club for young mountain bikers. Learn skills and take part in exciting games from British Cycling qualified coaches. Ages 8-14. To book visit www.betteshanger-park.co.uk

Until 18 Jan

Maidstone: United in Football, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH

(Selected dates). 10am-5pm. The story of Maidstone football is special. The town had a pioneering role in a number of aspects of the game. And its club famously plummeted further than any in history after being ejected from the Football League. Free. For more information visit www.museum.maidstone.gov.uk.

Until 29 Feb

Woolly Watery World, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH (Selected dates) Go along to see this ‘undersea’ art display, from an octopus to a seahorse and a chalk reef, has been knitted and crocheted by Kent Wildlife Trust’s volunteers and staff members as part of their ‘Guardians of the Deep’ project. For more details visit www.museum. maidstone.gov.uk

October

Fri 18 Oct

Freeform Fabric, Block 67, Folkestone, CT20 1BN

11am. Create playful architecture for the body by transforming paper patterns into 3D fabric shapes with fashion and costume designer Zoe Stevenson. To book visit www. creativefolkestone.org.uk

Fri 18 – Sun 20 Oct

Bennetts British Superbike Championship, Brands Hatch Circuit, Longfield, DA3 8NG

Enjoy a triple header season finale on the world-famous Grand Prix circuit in October with three incredible races across the weekend. Under 13s are admitted free. For more details and to book visit www.brandshatch. co.uk

Fri 18 – Thurs 31 Oct

Pick Your Own Pumpkin, Pumpkin Moon, Maidstone, ME14 3BE

10am-4pm. At Pumpkin Moon they specialise in fun for little (and not so little) people. With over 80 varieties of pumpkin, squash and gourd to choose from, plus the popular maize maze and face painting, you can make a real day of it. For more information visit www.pumpkinmoon.uk.

Sat 19 Oct

Boot Fair and End of Year Clearance, The Lord Whisky Sanctuary Fund, Stelling Minnis, CT4 6AN

Boots from 8am. Entertainment from 11am. For more information visit www.lordwhisky.co.uk.

Sat 19 – Fri 25 Oct

Beastly Bones and Curious Creatures, Quex Park and From 1 Oct Powell-Cotton Museum, Autumn Colours, Hever Castle, Birchington, CT7 0BH Edenbridge, TN8 7NG 10am-5pm. Do you have x-ray vision? As the air turns crisp and a rich display of autumn colour envelops the countryside, pack your walking boots or wellies and head to Hever Castle to enjoy the crunch of leaves underfoot and spectacular autumn tints. For more details and to book visit www.hevercastle.co.uk

Wed 16 Oct

Use the giant drawing screens and let the whole family get creative. Discover what’s on the inside of the animals in the dioramas – what makes a giraffe so different from a gorilla? Also find 10 bone objects using a trail sheet and collect a prize. For more information visit www. quexpark.co.uk

Birding in China, Great Chart Village Hall, Ashford, TN23 3AZ

7.30pm. This talk by Tony Morris showcases some of the colourful birds of Sichuan,Yunnan and Henan Provinces, including a fabulous series of pheasants, rosefinch species and an amazing variety of parrotbills, all set against fantastic scenery. For more details visit www.kentwildlifetrust. org.uk

14 Oct - 24 Nov ‘19

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have up to date details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure the information hasn’t changed.

“

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

”

Sat 19 – Sun 27 Oct

Spooky Pumpkin Trail, Rochester Castle, ME1 1SW

Take part in the spooky heritage trail around the Keep for a chance to win a small prize. Age 5-12. Small charge. Drop-in. For more information visit www.enjoymedway.org

Enchanted Dockyard, The Historic Dockyard Chatham, ME4 4TE

Get ready to be enchanted as you walk through an immersive magical ‘inside garden’. This experience is like no other. Sit on toadstools as you join in with the digital storytelling led by a wizard. Also includes slime making and butterfly origami. Be spell bound this October Half Term. For more details visit https:// thedockyard.co.uk

Halloween Half Term Fun, The Hop Farm, Paddock Wood, TN12 6PY

10am-4pm. Treat your little ones to a spook-tastic feast of fun. Join in lots of activities like pumpkin carving, ghoulish face painting, and storytelling plus on Tues 22, kids can meet The Gruffalo. Charges apply. For more details, timings and to book visit www.thehopfarm.co.uk

Spooky Pumpkin Trail, Rochester Castle, ME1 1SW

10am-4pm. Take part in a spooky heritage trail around the keep for a chance to win a small prize. Charges apply. Ages 5-12. For more details visit www.enjoymedway.org

Autumnal Nature Trail, Smallhythe Place, Tenterden, TN30 7NG

12noon-4.30pm. Keep the kids busy and pick up a trail sheet from visitor reception. Follow the pictures around the garden, what word will be revealed once the trail is complete? Free event, admission applies. For more details visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/smallhythe-place

Spooky Halloween Trail, Upnor Castle, ME2 4XG 10am-4pm. Take part in a spooky heritage trail around the keep for a chance to win a small prize. Charges apply. Ages 5-12. For more details visit www.enjoymedway.org

Spooky Castle, Walmer Castle and Gardens, Deal, CT14 7LJ

10am-4pm. A frighteningly fun day out awaits you at Walmer this Halloween. Let your little horrors scare themselves silly with spooky activities and ghost hunting galore. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www.english-heritage.org.uk

Get Spooked, Dreamland, Margate, CT9 1XJ

11am-5pm. Celebrate Halloween with nine days of frightfully good fun by the sea for families to enjoy. New for 2019 will be a family friendly maze for the brave and not so brave. There will also be ghoulish party games, devilish disco dancing and a variety of spooky crafts and activities to take part in too. Dressing up is encouraged. For more information visit www.dreamland.co.uk

Half Term Fun, Broadditch Farm, Southfleet, DA13 9PU

(Selected dates). Pumpkin Carving workshops, Monster Madness, The Bone Yard outdoor maze, Boo Bungalow and Freaky Forest. Spooktacular entertainment for all the family. For more information and to book visit www. broadwitchhauntfest.co.uk

Halloween Fear and Fun, Rare Breeds Centre, Ashford, TN26 3RJ Dare you join the Rare Breeds Centre for a week filled with ghosts, ghouls and a whole lot of fearsome fun? Complete the Spooks Trail, join ‘The Devil’s Pig Race’ and so much more. Dress up in your scariest costume for the chance to win a prize. For more information visit www.rarebreeds.org.uk

Sat 19 – Thurs 31 Oct

Halloween Half Term Fun, Hever Castle, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Prepare to be spooked at Haunted Hever. Enjoy a vast array of spooktacular events such as spooky storytelling, craft activities and a scarecrow scavenger hunt. Sink your teeth into a sweet treat at the deadly delicious biscuit decorating workshop or take part in the fancy dress competition. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www. hevercastle.co.uk

Sat 19 Oct – Sun 3 Nov Halloween Half Term, Wildwood Trust, Herne Bay, CT6 7LQ

Celebrate all things wicked and ghoulish at Wildwood this half term

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 8

14 Oct - 24 Nov â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;19

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for October and November

October with plenty of daily Halloween activities to entertain your little ones including daily talks, a spider trail, and free crafts and activities. Also special events and a bat talk on selected days. For more details visit www. wildwoodtrust.org.

Children of Scotney Halloween Trail, Scotney Castle, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 0TG Following the discovery of Edward Windsor’s childhood diaries, we know that Edwy and his siblings enjoyed telling ghost stories at Scotney. The children are making up a ghost story to tell their parents but need some ideas. Can you help them to find all 8 props from around the garden? For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/scotneycastle

Freaky Fossils Trail, Emmetts Garden, Sevenoaks, TN14 6BA 10am-4pm. Tread carefully around the garden this half term with a freaky fossils trail. Watch out for freaky fossils and terrifying trees as you head out around the gardens on the family trail. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/emmettsgarden

Spooky Spider Hunt, RSPB Dungeness Nature Reserve, Romney Marsh, TN29 9PN

10am-4pm. Explore the nature trail and learn about the wonders of spiders on your way round. Can you find the answers to all the questions on spiders which are hidden around the trail? There’s a small prize if you can find them all. Small charge for activity sheet. For more information visit www.rspb.org.uk/dungeness

Mon 21 Oct

Owl Meet and Greet, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend, DA13 9PA

10am, 11.15am, 12.30pm and 2pm. Get up close and personal with an array of owls from Sky Birds of Prey and learn all about these fascinating creatures. Session lasts 45 minutes and includes a mask to take home and decorate. Charges apply. For more information visit www. millbrookgc.co.uk

Mon 21 – Wed 23 Oct

Make Your Own Halloween Crafts, Upnor Castle, ME2 4XG

10.30am-3.30pm. Join in the hands-on family craft activity on site. Ages 5-12. Drop-in. For more information visit www.enjoymedway.org

Mon 21 – Thurs 24 Oct

Shaun the Sheep Clay Modelling, Bluewater Shopping Centre, Greenhithe, DA9 9ST 10am-6pm. Celebrate the launch of ‘A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon’ by creating your own Shaun the Sheep from clay! Head to Moon Court on the day to book a slot. Small charge applies. For more information visit www.bluewater. co.uk.

Mon 21 – Fri 25 Oct

Autumn Week, Godinton House and Gardens, Ashford, TN23 3BP 1-4pm. Activities for all the family to enjoy: a garden trail, traditional garden games and children’s crafts. Tearoom open for delicious homemade refreshments. For more information visit www. godintonhouse.co.uk

Sun 20 Oct

Mon 21 – Sun 27 Oct

2pm. A family-friendly, fun-filled draw-along for all ages. Join acclaimed children’s writer and illustrator Nick Sharratt and draw along with him. He’ll be showing you how to sketch favourite characters like Tracy Beaker and Timothy Pope. To book visit www.woodville.co.uk

11am-3pm. Halloween fun with kmfm Street Team is frightfully good. Kids can have their face painted for free or take part in Halloween make and takes. Plus on Thurs 24 and Fri 25 there will be live creepy crawlies in the centre. For more information visit www.hempsteadvalley.com

Nick Sharratt’s Right Royal Draw-a-long, The Woodville, Gravesend, DA12 1DD

Halloween Half Term Fun, Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre, ME7 3PD

Thanet 5k Colour Run, The Oval, Palm Bay, Margate, CT9 2GB

This family friendly 5k event is an explosion of colourful fun. Take in amazing coastal views as you run and walk through clouds of brightly coloured powder paint. Gather friends and family to join the energetic atmosphere of over 1,000 people along Thanet’s spectacular seafront. For more details and to sign up visit www.pilgrimshospices.org

14 Oct - 24 Nov ‘19

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have up to date details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure the information hasn’t changed.

“

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

”

Halloween Monster Academy, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL

Activities will include learning to move like a monster, perfecting your scare technique and complete an obstacle class. There will also be a spooky trail through the grounds as well as daily ghoulish games and a frightful fancy dress competition. To book tickets visit www.leeds-castle.com

Pumpkin Carving, Ruxley Manor Garden Centre, Sidcup, DA14 5BQ

Treat your little pumpkins, witches and ghosts to a pumpkin carving session this Halloween. New this year there will be a range stencils provided with each pumpkin so you can now create spooky or cute designs with your little ones in a 45 minute session. For more information and to book visit www. ruxley-manor.co.uk

Tues 22 Oct

Our Amazing Animal World, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend, DA13 9PA

(Also 24 Oct). 10am, 11am, 12noon, 1pm. Enjoy a truly unique and fully interactive animal experience. The team are back with a selection of weird and wonderful rescued animals for your child to meet. Learn lots of amazing facts. Charges apply. For more information visit www. millbrookgc.co.uk

Tues 22 – Fri 25 Oct

Make It! Workshops, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH

10.30-11.30am, 12noon-1pm, 1.302.30pm, 3-4pm. Enjoy a week of sports-themed craft activities. Tues create your own table football game, Wed - make your own giant foam sports hand, Thurs – design your own sports-related baseball cap, Fri – create your own winners’ trophy. Ages 4-11. For more information and to book visit www.museum. maidstone.gov.uk

Make Your Own Halloween Crafts, Rochester Castle, ME1 1SW 10.30am-3.30pm. Join in this handson family craft activity. Ages 5-12. Small charge. For more information visit www.enjoymedway.org

Wed 23 Oct

Magical Halloween Party, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend, DA13 9PA

10.30am (Pre-schoolers), 12.30pm (SEN), 3pm (Ages 5-10). Have spooktacular fun with the magical wizards and witches from Mascot Moments. Enjoy party games and dancing, sweet treats, crafts, balloon modelling plus glitter face painting. All included in ticket price. For more information visit www.millbrookgc.co.uk

Halloween Arts and Crafts, Smallhythe Place, Tenterden, EN30 7NG

1-3pm. Grab your broomsticks, hats and cloaks and get ready for an afternoon of spooky arts and crafts at Smallhythe Place. Go along dressed in your scariest Halloween costume, the best dressed wins a prize. Free. Ages 3-10. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/smallhythe-place

Wed 23 – Thurs 24 Oct Wild Things at Halloween, RSPB Dungeness Nature Reserve, Romney Marsh, TN29 9PN

11am-3pm. Learn about some of the awesome and gruesome wildlife at the reserve. Delve into ponds to discover leeches and toads, mix up concoctions in a cauldron to feed the birds, search for slimy slugs and unusual fungi. Collect materials to make your own monsters. Booking essential. For more information visit www.rspb.org.uk/dungeness

Wed 23 – Sun 27 Oct

Paulos Rockets Tour, Millbrook Garden Centre, Staplehurst, TN12 9BT Showcasing a brand-new thrilling autumn show from breath taking stunts, laugh out loud comedy to beautiful artistry, the Paulos family have created a show to give you and your family everlasting memories. For more details and to book visit www.millbrookgc.co.uk/centre/ millbrook-staplehurst

Thurs 24 Oct

Mystical Creatures, Dover Museum, CT16 1PH

10.30am-3pm. Enjoy making masks and trying puzzles with a magical theme. Free. For more details visit www.dovermuseum.co.uk

October Half Term, Huguenot Museum, Rochester, ME1 1LX 11.45am-3pm. Create your own tile design. Get inspired by the incredible designs of Huguenot descendant William de Morgan, and draw your designs on a blank ceramic tile. Why not go along with a group of friends and create a collaborative tile panel? Drop-in. For more information visit www. huguenotmuseum.org

Thurs 24 – Thurs 31 Oct

Pumpkin Hunt, Demelza Hospice Care for Children, Various Locations

Looking for things to do with the kids during the half term holidays? Take along the whole family for some frightfully good fun at the 2019 Pumpkin Hunt. Children are encouraged to wear fancy dress, and could win a prize. Ages 3-11. For more information visit www. demelza.org.uk

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

Family Theatre

your not average, every day, run of the mill, supermarket own brand beans. Oh no. They are MAGIC beans! Jack has to save the day by climbing the beanstalk to confront the evil giant. But will Jack make it? Will the giant eat him? Will Fleshcreep the giant’s henchman get his comeuppance? And will Simple Simon remember his lines?

Find all this out, and much more at The Tower Theatre this festive season. Expect stunning costumes, fabulous scenery, a giant, a beanstalk, a cow, fabulous lighting, music, mayhem, laughter, plenty of audience participation and terrible jokes like this one – ‘How did Jack know how many Beans his cow was worth? He used a cowculater’. Book now to avoid disappointment, at www.towertheatrefolkestone.co.uk.

Family Theatre Jack and the Beanstalk at The Tower Theatre, Folkestone

This year’s pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, is going to be Fee-Fi-Fo-FUN! The formidable duo Mike Nolan from Bucks Fizz fame (as Jack) and John Pritchard (as Dame Trott), are back and are joined by a sparkling cast who will get you in the Christmas spirit. Jack is off on an adventure, swapping his great big cow, for a bag of beans. “What a fool!”, you may shout, but.....these are

The Night of The Snow Dragon Approaches…

From the company that brought you ‘The Gruffalo’ and ‘The Snail and the Whale’ comes The Snow Dragon, the ultimate winter stage show full of toe-tapping songs and lots of laughs! Billy has everything a young goat could need – and more besides. On New Year’s Eve, Billy is looking forward to the annual visit of the legendary Snow Dragon, who will bring him even more goodies. But when Billy bumps into some hungry wolves in the forest, New Year’s Day seems a long way off. How will Billy escape? And has he been naughty or nice? The Snow Dragon is running at the Gulbenkian Theatre from Wednesday 11 December until Sunday 22 December, with accessible relaxed performances on Tuesday 17 December and Sunday 22 December. Continued on page 11 AD_129362_The Snow Dragon_A5.qxp_A5

22/08/2019 15:10 Page 1

FOLKESTONE - HYTHE OPERATIC & DRAMATIC SOCIETY PRESENTS

Suitable for ages 3+

The GIANT pantomime spectacular

MIKE NOLAN from The Fizz

JOHN PRITCHARD

as Dame Trott

ts Ticke 10 £ from

14th - 27th December BOX OFFICE 01303 223925 or towertheatrefolkestone.co.uk The Tower Theatre, North Road, Shorncliffe, Folkestone CT20 3HL THE FOLKESTONE-HYTHE OPERATIC & DRAMATIC SOCIETY CIO

Registered Charity 1180504

11 – 22 Dec

“The Snow Dragon is story-telling and children’s theatre at its best… A feast for the imagination.” What To Do With The Kids

Tickets & Information 01227 769075 www.thegulbenkian.co.uk

TTT

THE TOWER THEATRE

14 Oct - 24 Nov ‘19

Family Theatre

01795 591691 bookings@thealexandercentre.com 15-17 Preston Street, Faversham, Kent ME13 8NZ WOODLAND TALES WITH GRANDDAD

Sunday 17th November 2pm Sunday 27th October 2pm Something is happening in the woods, “Dragons come when you least expect it. You voices can be heard, and a strange turn round... and they’re there.” metallic smell fills the air. There’s only An intergenerational show, featuring creative captioning, interwoven BSL and audio description. one person who can help them Granddad. But is there enough time? You’ve Got Dragons is a treat for the whole Can they save the wood? family. And remember... ‘No dragon is more powerful than YOU!’ Suitable for children of 3 years plus & their families Tickets £6.50 per child/£8.50 per adult/Family (4tix)£25. Available from The Alexander Centre

Family Theatre Alexander Centre Faversham

Box Office: 01795 591 691 27 Oct

You’ve Got Dragons

‘Dragons come when you least expect it. You turn ‘round… and they’re there.’ Lots of people get them: bad dreams, swirly tummy, feeling prickly. And sometimes they make you feel alone. So, what can a young child with a bad case of dragons do?

17 Nov

Woodland Tales with Grandad

Something is happening in the woods, voices can be heard, and a strange metallic smell fills the air. Machines are gathering at its edge. There’s one person who can help them – Grandad. Ages 3+.

Gulbenkian Canterbury

Box Office: 01227 769 075 19 Oct

Stella

Stella is a Star Engineer. From her home on the Moon she keeps the stars shining bright for when we need them most, to make a wish or find our way back home. Ages 3+.

16 Nov

Same Same… But Different

A new family show, mixing Kathak, Hip Hop, contemporary dance, hints of live music and physical storytelling, to create a playful and colourful world, exploring our curiosities and fears, the times we feel different and when we belong. Ages 5+. 10

14 Oct - 24 Nov ‘19

23 Nov

Star in a Jar

When a little boy stumbles across a special star, he puts it in a jar and takes it on adventures.But the poor star misses its home. Can the little boy and his big sister find a way to send the star safely back? Ages 3+.

30 Nov

Hansel & Gretel

Marlowe Canterbury

18 – 20 Dec

Annie

In this heart-warming tale, a young girl sets out on a quest to confront the dragon under the ice who has hoarded all of the fires and lights for himself.

Box Office: 01227 787 787 14 – 19 Oct

Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage.

21 – 22 Oct

The Princess and The Frog After sell out-tours around the UK, Let’s All Dance is delighted to return with this beautiful, classical ballet to charm audiences young and old.

This contemporary retelling of the classic fairy tale finds our two young heroes lost in 24 – 25 Oct London, overwhelmed by the The Pirate Cruncher sights, sounds and smells. A swashbuckling tale of greed Together the brave duo must for children aged 5-11 and their outwit the adults to find their families. way back to their family in a show where kids are 25 Oct Enjoy number one! Ages The Bear and the show! 5+.

11 – 22 Dec

The Snow Dragon

And don’t forget to say you saw it in

the Weeping Horse

A princess living as a goose girl, a man wrapped in the skin of a bear and a horse that speaks only the truth. Go along for a roller coaster ride of enchantment! Ages 7+.

Primary Times!

Billy has everything a young goat could need – and more besides. On New Year’s Eve, Billy is looking forward to the annual visit of the legendary Snow Dragon, who will bring him even more goodies…

13 – 17 Nov

Nativity! The Musical

Leas Cliff Hall Folkestone

Box Office: 01303 228 600 www.atgtickets.com 20 Oct

Featuring all of your favourite sing-a-long hits from the movies including Sparkle And Shine, Nazareth, One Night One Moment, She’s The Brightest Star and a whole host of new songs.

Peter and the Wolf

28 Nov – 12 Jan

A wonderful way to introduce classical music to younger children, whilst also entertaining the adults.

Mother Goose

With hilarious comedy, beautiful sets and costumes, and fantastic music, Mother Goose will be the funniest and most spectacular pantomime ever!

Under The Frozen Moon

Quarterhouse Folkestone

Box Office: 01303 760 750 Until 6 Dec

Mrs H and The Singalong Band

(Selected dates) Bringing together elements of Folk, Soul, Afro, Latin, Dub, comedy and theatre, the Sing-along Band has been wooing audiences. Take along your voices, silly dances, and a sprinkling of mischief.

20 Oct

Hansel and Gretel

Deep in an enchanted forest, everybody’s looking for something to eat. A tasty treat, a sticky sweet - some children’s feet? Enjoy a colourful retelling of the classic Grimm’s fairytale.

9 Nov

The Little Prince

Join the Little Prince as he leaves behind his own tiny asteroid and journeys through the universe to come face to face with the baffling world of grown-ups.

Tower Folkestone

Box Office: 01303 223 925 14 – 27 Dec

Jack and the Beanstalk

Jack is off on an adventure, swapping his great big cow (not the Dame) for a bag of beans. Expect stunning costumes, fabulous scenery, a giant, a beanstalk, a cow, fabulous lighting, music, mayhem, laughter and terrible jokes.

Tickets and show times are available online at www. thegulbenkian.co.uk. The Snow Dragon supports Key Stages 1 & 2 Citizen Modules, has a run time of 50 minutes and is suitable for ages 3+. Three Weeks Magazine gave the show a 5 star review saying, “If you are a kid, if you have kids, if you ever were a kid, go and see The Snow Dragon,” and The Upcoming called it, “The perfect theatre show for small children with big imaginations.”

Cast Announced for Marlowe Theatre Panto

Mother Goose, this year’s pantomime at Marlowe Theatre, will star TV’s Dr Ranj Singh and Olivier Award-winning actor Jenna Russell, alongside local favourites Ben Roddy and Lloyd Hollett. The production, which opens on 28 November, marks Ben’s 10th year in panto. Dr Ranj will be playing Billy Goose, and has already shown a flare for the stage when he swapped his scrubs for sequins as a Strictly Come Dancing contestant. Jenna will play Fairy Goodfeather. The Kent resident is best known for her role as Michelle Fowler in EastEnders. Ben will take the title role of Mother Goose. He was awarded Dame of the Year at The Great British Pantomime Awards for his role in Peter Pan in 2018 and was nominated for Best Ugly Sister for his role in Cinderella in 2018/19. Lloyd will play Charlie in this, his ninth Marlowe pantomime. A Thanet native, Lloyd had variety in his blood from the age of 10, with his stage debut in Oliver! at the Theatre Royal Margate. Since then he’s entertained all over the world with his own unique and original style of comedy wordplay.

Mother Goose will run at The Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury from Thursday 28 November to Sunday 12 January. There will be captioned, BSL-interpreted, audio-described and relaxed performances. For more information, please visit www. marlowetheatre.com or call the box office on 01227 787 787.

Subsidised Performances at The Alex

Faversham’s Alexander Centre, fondly known as The Alex, is run as a Community Interest Company and is committed to ensuring it’s a hub of activity and events for the people of the town and beyond. Keen to expand its family-friendly offer, The Alex has partnered with promoters House and Applause, who offer subsidised live performances for community venues, and are pleased to be presenting two children’s theatre shows this autumn.

Family Theatre

Continued from page 9

You’ve Got Dragons, presented by Taking Flight Theatre Company, is based on the bestselling book by Kathryn Cave. It’s a highly visual inter-generational family show with live music and humour which explores dealing with dragons – the inner fears everyone faces. It’s an interactive performance which also uses BSL and audio description to make it a truly inclusive experience. You’ve Got Dragons will be at the Centre on 27 October. Woodland Tales with Granddad is presented by Pickled Image, a company expert in the art of puppetry. Their exquisite puppets and magical storytelling bring a tale about creatures who, with the help of Granddad, work together to save their woodland. Woodland Tales with Granddad will take place on 17 November. Both shows are suitable for children who are 3+ and their families. Tickets are available from The Alex at 01795 591 691 or by emailing bookings@thealexandercentre.com. For more information, please visit www.thealexandercentre.com.

EVOLUTION PANTOMIMES AND THE MARLOWE PRESENT

THU 28 NOV - SUN 12 JAN Written and directed by Paul Hendy marlowetheatre.com 01227 787787

THE REVIEWS HUB (on Cinderella)

INQUIRE (on Peter Pan)

14 Oct - 24 Nov ‘19

Happy Halloween and More Days Out...

Happy Halloween and More days out...

Get Spooked this Half Term at Dreamland This October Half Term, take your little ghouls and goblins to Dreamland for a day out by the sea without the fright but with all of the fun. From 19 to 27 October, the Dreamland Margate amusement park is open every day for its annual Get Spooked festival. Little and big kids can celebrate Halloween with spine-tingling party games, devilish disco dancing and creepy crafts and activities to take part in too. Dressing up is encouraged! Family Film Sundays are also back with Disney favourites, Monsters Inc and Coco, on the big outdoor screen. Take a blanket, wrap up and enjoy the movies with a delicious treat from the food court. Pumpkin Spiced Latte anyone? And new for 2019, visit The Spooky Circus - the family-friendly maze for the brave and not so brave. As well as all the entertainment around the park, Dreamland’s rides will be running and the Dreamland Ark will be open for creepy crawly fans to meet spiders, reptiles and much more. Get Spooked is just part of the fiendish fun at Dreamland. From 6pm the park morphs into Screamland – a huge horror festival filled with terrifyingly fun scare mazes. Definitely not for tiny tots but perfect for any brave teenagers who want to venture out after dark! Dreamland is free to enter and will be open for Get Spooked from 11am-5pm every day throughout October Half Term. Buy unlimited ride wristbands online in advance and save 25%. To find out more make sure to visit www.dreamland.co.uk/events. Photo credit: Marc Sethi

Creepy Crawlies at RSPB Dungeness Across the UK, RSPB reserves are going wild for Halloween. At RSPB Dungeness in Kent you’ll discover creepy crawlies, small and scaries, and things that go bump in the night. Go along to Wild Things at Halloween to learn about some of the awesome and gruesome wildlife the RSPB has. Delve into the ponds to discover leeches and toads or mix up concoctions in a cauldron to feed the birds.You can even collect materials to make your own monsters to take home with you. Activities will take place on Wednesday 23 and Thursday 24 October from 11am - 3pm. Tickets cost £8 per child and £2 per accompanying adult. Booking is essential. Please wear sensible clothing and take a packed lunch. 12

14 Oct - 24 Nov ‘19

Alternatively, why not enjoy a self-led Spooky Spider Hunt through the nature trail? Pick up an activity sheet from the visitor centre and see if you can you learn all about the wonders of spiders by finding the answers hidden around the trail. There’s a prize in it for you if you can find them all. The trail runs from Saturday 19 October - Sunday 3 November, from 10am - 4pm. Trail costs £1 per activity sheet. Usual entry fees apply to walk the trail (free for RSPB members). For more information, visit www.rspb.org.uk/PTDun or call 01797 320 588.

Enter the Enchanted Dockyard Be transported into a magical world as The Historic Dockyard Chatham pulls back ancient ivy to reveal the Enchanted Dockyard from Saturday 19 until Sunday 27 October. A mystical garden and seasonal crafts will await families inside No.1 Smithery. Grown-ups and children will be tasked with making their own magic wands and origami butterflies, plus they’ll also be able to carve pumpkins and make their own goo-ey slime before entering the Enchanted Garden. A small charge applies. Families will be invited to ‘charge’ their magic wands and creep quietly through the secret door into the mysterious world of the Dockyard’s fairies and mystical creatures. Explore the garden, wander around the koi pond and peek into the fairy village before

Spooky

Halloween events at RSPB Dungeness!

Wild Things at Halloween on Wednesday 23 and Thursday 24 October Delve into our ponds to discover leeches and toads, mix up concoctions in a cauldron to feed the birds, or make your own monsters to take home! Booking essential. Visit the reserve between Saturday 19 October and Sunday 3 November and go on a self-led arachnid adventure at our Spooky Spider Hunt! RSPB Dungeness, Dungeness Road, Romney Marsh, TN29 9PN Tel: 01797 320588

rspb.org.uk/PTDun The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is a registered charity: England and Wales no. 207076, Scotland no. SC037654. All rights reserved. RSPB licence 100021787. 891-0630-19-20

Learn to be a Monster at Leeds Castle’s Monster Academy Are you a little monster? If so, you’ll fit in perfectly at the brand new Monster Academy at Leeds Castle, open from 21-27 October. This Halloween explore the castle grounds and complete spooky classes, winning stamps from each teacher to graduate from the Academy. Activities will include learning to move like a monster, perfecting your scare technique and completing an obstacle course. A fun new haunted trail will also guide younger visitors through the Woodland Walk. Look forward to frightening fun and ghoulish games. At 12noon and 3pm, dance in the outdoor children’s Monster Mash Ball, and take part in the daily fancy dress competition at 2.30pm with prizes for the best costume. A valid admission ticket to Leeds Castle is required for this event. There are two types of ticket available, valid for either one adult and up to five children (aged 15 or under) or two adults and up to four children. Admission tickets are valid for 12 months. To purchase tickets and

for pricing information, visit www.leeds-castle.com. Grounds open at 10am daily and the Castle is open from 10.30am. Last admission is 3pm and gates close at 5pm.

Happy Halloween and More Days Out...

gathering on toad stalls under the trees for story time. Follow the plight of the lost ship Phoenix as a digital storybook comes to life, led by narrator Little Victory.Visitors will need to help Neewollah the Wizard and his band of fireflies guide the Phoenix safely home through the storm. This immersive experience will take approximately 1 hour. Access to the Enchanted Dockyard is included in an entry ticket but a timeslot must be booked upon arrival. It is an undercover, all-weather experience and visitors are encouraged to come dressed in magical and mystical outfits.

Pumpkin Hunting with Demelza Hospice Care A spook-tacular charity event, The Halloween Pumpkin Hunt, has been organised by Demelza Hospice Care for Children with events in Tenterden and Whitstable on 25 October. At each event, pumpkins will be on display with various retailers and at local landmarks and children will hunt for them while picking up treats along the way. Children are encouraged to wear fancy dress. The Halloween Pumpkin Hunt takes approximately one hour to complete and is open to children aged 3 - 11, costing £5 per child. Money raised will go to Demelza Hospice Care for Children. For more information, please visit www.demelza.org.uk.

WILDWOOD KENT

Visit Wildwood this

Halloween Half Term SAT 19TH OCTOBER-SUN 3RD NOVEMBER

Daily Talks, Spooky Activities Spider Trail, & much more

Find out more at www.wildwoodtrust.org Phone: 01227 712 111

INCLUDED

IN YOUR ANNUAL TICKET

BUT

SLIME MAKING

LY TERF

ORIG

AMI

19th - 27th OCTOBER

ARDEN FAIRY G RVING CA IN K PUMP AKING WAND M

NEW EXPERIENCES

FOR 2019

#enchanteddockyard

MAKING

MEMORIES Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

21ST TO 27TH OCTOBER Are you a little monster? If so you’ll fit right in at our Monster Academy this Halloween. Explore the Castle grounds and complete spooky classes. Learn to move like a monster and perfect your scare technique. leeds-castle.com

14 Oct - 24 Nov ‘19

Out of School Activities with a dedicated area especially for the under 5s, which includes sensory features to help them play and learn at the same time. The Soft Play includes ball pools, crash mats, slides and obstacle courses, where children can burn off their energy in a fun and safe environment.

Family Activities in the ActiveZone at Swallows

Go along to Swallows Leisure Centre to experience their newly opened Active Zone. Clip ‘n’ Climb at Swallows is the easiest and safest way to try out climbing (no climbing experience is necessary). It’s suitable for adults and children over 5, so it’s a fun day out for all the family. With over 13 different climbing walls to conquer, including ‘Detonator’, ‘Lightning Crack’ and ‘Spaghetti Junction’, you can be sure to find the opportunity to test your resolve and reach some new heights. Swallows Soft Play is for children up to the age of 10,

During the half term holidays, the centre runs a Super Stars Holiday Club. A play scheme for 5 to 12 year olds, offering a range of arts and crafts, archery and also a film afternoon. Find out more at www.swaleleisure.com/swallows or call 01795 420 420.

Disney-Inspired Swimming Sessions

Parents can keep the kids healthy, happy and active this autumn by heading to the pool for a Disney-inspired family fun swim session, available to book now. From ‘Minnie’s Hollywood Star’ to ‘Unleash Your Donald’, and from ‘Pluto to the Rescue’ to ‘Mickey’s Orchestra’ – Disney’s muchloved Mickey Mouse & Friends characters will inspire games that focus on key swimming techniques to encourage kids to feel more confident and enjoy the water. Teaming up with Swim England to encourage families nationwide to enjoy water, the year-long programme forms part of Disney’s Healthy Living initiative with sessions running until May 2020. From February - May 2020, the games will be inspired by key characters from the upcoming Disney Frozen 2.

October Half Term Activities with Swale Community Leisure

Swallows

Sheppey

21st - 25th October • Arts & Crafts

14th - 25th October

• Archery

• Dance

• Film Afternoons

& more

• Aqua Run

• Clip’n Climb & more

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

/SwallowsLeisure

14 Oct - 24 Nov ‘19

Sheppey Leisure Complex Off the Broadway, Sheerness, Kent, ME12 1HH Swimming Pool: 01795 506582

/SheppeyLeisureComplex

Times & days vary, please visit our website for full details.

www.swaleleisure.com

Reach New Heights this Half Term

Are you looking to reach new heights with your family? The High Places Clip ‘n Climb wall in Dover is a great place to get together with the whole family and have some fun. No climbing experience is necessary as adventurers are securely clipped onto an auto belay system and are guided by qualified instructors. This is an experience that is suitable for ages 4 and above, which makes it a great choice for a family day out. A full safety briefing is included in the 1 hour 15 minute long session which gives explorers 45 minutes of fun navigating 16 different challenges, including the infamous Leap of Faith.

Out of School Activities

Remember to check out sessions at your local pool to help your kids have fun and improve their confidence whilst learning some essential swimming skills. Taking place at more than 250 pools nationwide, you can find your nearest pool offering the sessions at www.swimming.org/Disney. Spaces are available so book now.

Some of the other challenges include Dry Ice which imitates ice wall climbing with wooden pegs as your tool to climb and Orbital where you will feel the wall spinning underneath your hands and feet! Face to Face is a great one for the competitive climber as it is a transparent wall so you can race your opponent in real time. For the more courageous climber, you can have a go on the Drop Slide, hold on tight and see how high you dare to be pulled up before you let go! Please note that there are some minimum heights restrictions on some of the challenges. Find out more about all the exciting activities and book your spot at www.placesleisure.org/centres/ dover-district-leisure-centre.

“Reaching new heights.” “

Whatever place you're into

“Reaching new Family friendly fun on our unique Clip heights.” 'n Climb walls!

Family friendly ouronline uniquenow. Clip Suitable for agesfun 4+,on book 'n Climb walls! Suitable for ages 4+, book online now.

dover.placesleisure.org

dover.placesleisure.org Visit website for full terms and conditions. Visit website for full terms and conditions.

Operated by Places for People

Operated by Places for People Leisure Ltd. working in partnership with Dover District Council.

Dover District Leisure Centre 01304 201145

14 Oct - 24 Nov ‘19

Katie

Crossword Answers 1 Crab, 2 Whale, 3 HermitCrab, 4 Mantaray, 5 Turtle, 6 Seahorse, 7 Squid, 8 Octopus, 9 Lobster, 10 Shark, 11 Dolphin

lown’s Shark Shindig Word Search M B G K S K R A H S

T H R E S H E R R B

K H E G B L U E C N

P S A N D T I G E R

E I T H N U R S E X

T F W G N I K S A B

I S H O R T F I N U

H F I N A R B E Z L

WD L A T E I H G R E E RM DM B A L H

Puzzle Time

A n s w e r s

What is a sharks favorite sandwich? Peanut butter and jellyfish! What do you call a solitary shark? A “lone” (loan) shark

Did you hear about the shark who dreamt he ate an enormous Can you find all these words fish? He woke up and in the word search? it was just a bream! Shark, Hammerhead,

Basking, Shortfin, Thresher, Bull, Tiger, White, Blue, Nurse, Greatwhite, Fish, Fin, Zebra

What did the shark say to the whale? What are you blubbering about?

Interesting Facts • There are over 500 species of sharks in our oceans. on Sharks • Nursehound sharks live in our chilly UK waters. • Sharks have a top of the class sense of smell. • Sharks have lived in our oceans for more than 420 million years For more details That makes them older than trees! on sharks visit www.visitsealife.com/ • You can tell a black tip reef shark by the black markings on their ﬁns! brighton • Why are Zebra Sharks spotty not stripey? That’s because when they’re babies these sharks are covered in black and white stripes which break up when they grow and turn into polka dots.

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

Postcode: School:

Send your entry together with this completed form to:

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

competitions@primarytimes.biz

Closing date 8 November 2019. Good Luck!

Shark Colouring Corner

Education News

importance of outdoor learning and play and encourage them to get involved. Think about how you can spend more time outdoors as a family too and inspire other parents to do the same.

Premiership Rugby Champions

Education News

Learn Something New Outdoors

Thursday 7 November is Outdoor Classroom Day, a global campaign to celebrate and inspire outdoor learning and play. In 2018, over 3.5 million children worldwide took their lessons outdoors and prioritised playtime. Outdoor learning improves children’s health, engages them through new approaches to their usual lessons, and leads to a greater connection with nature. Play not only teaches critical life skills such as resilience, teamwork and creativity, but is central to children’s enjoyment of childhood. If you’re a teacher and new to outdoor learning, why not use Outdoor Classroom Day to try it out? If you already get outdoors regularly, use the day to celebrate what you’re doing and inspire other teachers around the world to join in. If you’re a parent, talk to your child’s school about the

Premiership Rugby is on a mission to improve the lives and prospects of children and young people across England, using the power of rugby to inspire the current generation to learn, be active and discover their inner champion to help them achieve their potential. Understanding that being a champion isn’t just about being on the winning team, lifting trophies or scoring straight A’s, Premiership Rugby have developed Premiership Rugby Champions - an interactive cross curriculum-based digital app to inspire primary school children’s learning across multiple subjects whilst embedding digital literacy outcomes and developing important life skills. Premiership Rugby Champions will provide free interactive themed project based lesson plans for use in the classroom and outside. With digital literacy at the heart of all content, the first resources will tackle health, with modules on tackling numeracy and character to follow as the term progresses. It uses the inspiration and role models of Premiership Rugby Clubs to connect pupils’ learning to the world around them, via themed digital content and lesson materials. Initially aimed at primary schools (7-11-year-olds), the app aims to improve the educational outcomes for young children, increasing their digital know-how, self-esteem and raising their aspirations. The Premiership Rugby Champions App is available for download now on iOS and Android. To find out more about Premiership Rugby Champions, visit www.premiershiprugby.com/champions and download the app.

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

Open Events 2019-20

VOICE TRIALS for boys aged 7 & 8 9th November 2019

Open House Friday 22 November 9.30am-12pm

Enquiries are welcome at any time

Open Morning Saturday 7 March 9.30am-12pm

Substantial scholarships are awarded and choristers benefit from an all-round excellent education at St Edmund’s School Canterbury.

Scholarships available for September 2020 entry

The Master of Choristers, David Flood, is always pleased to meet and advise parents and their sons.

Come and visit! For further details please telephone

01227 865242 davidf@canterbury-cathedral.org @No1Cathedral

www.springgroveschool.co.uk 01233 812337 · Wye, near Ashford, Kent

14 Oct - 24 Nov ‘19

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for October and November

October Fri 25 Oct

Fright Night Express, Kent & East Sussex Railway, Tenterden, TN30 6HE

5pm. Join the Fright Night workshop including pumpkin carving and face painting. The Fright Night Express departs at 7pm. Enjoy a firework display before the return journey to Tenterden. For more information visit www.kesr.org.uk

Marli the Magician’s Magic Show!, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend, DA13 9PA

10am, 11.15am, 12.30pm, 2pm. Marli the Magician will present a 45 minute magic show that’s full of Halloween fun, followed by balloon modelling. Ages 3+. Charges apply. Booking essential. For more information visit www.millbrookgc.co.uk

Fri 25 – Sun 27 Oct

Halloween Spooky Specials, Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, Hythe Station, TN28 8PL

A spooky spectacular, full of family fun, but, beware of the ghostly games and activities. See Amazing Animal Encounters where you can get upclose and personal with a variety of creepy critters. The RH&DR team will be dressed up and customers are invited to do the same. For more information visit www.rhdr.org.uk

Sun 27 Oct

Toys and Collectables Sale, Crampton Tower Museum, Broadstairs, CT10 2AB

Swanley Council are holding their annual fireworks event tonight. Gates open at 5pm, bonfire lights up at 6.30pm with fireworks at 7.30pm. For more information call Swanley Council on 01322 665 855.

Halloween at Belmont, Belmont House and Gardens, Faversham, ME13 0HH

Our Amazing Animal World, Millbrook Garden Centre, Crowborough, TN6 3RJ

Minster Magical Fireworks & Bonfire, Brecon Chase, Minster, ME12 4HS

Halloween Magic, Lullingstone Castle, Dartford, DA4 0JA

Wed 30 Oct

Gravesend Musical Fireworks Display, Riverside Leisure Area, DA12 2BT

11am-3pm. Enjoy a spooktacular family outing to Belmont this Halloween. Children can reveal their inner artist with pumpkin carving and creepy craft making with Lynsey of Creative Mash Ups.There will also be a spooky trail around the gardens for everyone to enjoy. For more information visit www. belmont-house.org

12noon-7pm. Halloween Magic on the last day of the season. Pumpkin carving, spooky house tours (2pm and 6pm), garden tours and Halloween inspired light bites in the café marquee – perfect for all the family. For more information visit www.lullingstonecastle.co.uk

Broadstairs Children’s Halloween Party, Broadstairs Pavilion, CT10 1EU

Children’s Halloween party for children up to 11. Party games and music. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Booking essential.

10am. Have fun and celebrate as a family, whilst also exploring themes of home, identity and migration. Activities include: drumming workshops, short films, a Badge Swap Shop, magic wand making, Syrian music workshops, storytelling, and more. Ages 4-11. For more information visit www.thegulbenkian. co.uk

10am, 11.15am, 12.30pm, 2pm. Get up close and personal with an array of owls from Sky Birds of Prey and learn all about these fascinating creatures. Sessions last 45 minutes and includes a mask to take home and decorate. Charges apply. For more information visit www. millbrookgc.co.uk

Join the railway to mark the end of a busy 2019 season. They’ll be rounding off the year with a finale to be proud of. For more information visit www. rhdr.org.uk

Sat 26 – Sun 27 Oct

Hocus-Pocus in the Park, Westwood Cross Shopping Centre, Broadstairs, CT10 2BF 10am-4pm. A free family fun event including a magic show, wizardthemed games, wand technique classes, a Halloween disco, selfie opportunities and more. Wear your spookiest fancy dress. For more information visit www.westwoodx. co.uk

14 Oct - 24 Nov ‘19

Bonfire Night, Swanley Recreation Ground, St Mary’s Rd, BR8 7BU

challenge will be available for those who dare. Limited places so arrive early, booking from 10am. For more information and to book visit www. tmbc.gov.uk

Mon 28 Oct

End of Season Parade, Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, Hythe Station, TN28 8PL

”

sample delicious local food and drink, before a magnificent bonfire and spectacular fireworks display. Tickets available online only. For more details visit www. westfarleighsportsclub.com.

2-5pm. Free Admission. Go along to this toys and collectables sale to find something special and grab yourself a bargain. For more information visit www.cramptontower.co.uk

Sat 26 Oct

Platforma Family Day, Gulbenkian Theatre, Canterbury, CT2 7NB

“

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

Owl Meet and Greet, Millbrook Garden Centre, Crowborough, TN6 3RJ

Tue 29 Oct

Halloween Trails, Haysden Country Park, Tonbridge, TN11 9BB

Follow the clues around the park and find the answers. Wear fancy dress if you can. Afterwards a trick or treat

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have up to date details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure the information hasn’t changed.

(Also 31 Oct). 10am, 11am, 12noon, 1pm. Enjoy a truly unique and fully interactive animal experience. The team are back with a selection of weird and wonderful rescued animals for your child to meet. Learn lots of amazing facts. Charges apply. For more information visit www. millbrookgc.co.uk

Halloween Trails, Leybourne Lakes Country Park, Aylesford, ME20 6AA Follow the clues around the park and find the answers. Wear fancy dress if you can. Afterwards a trick or treat challenge will be available for those who dare. Take along a torch. Limited places so arrive early. Booking from 5pm. For more information and to book visit www.tmbc.gov.uk

Halloween Ghost Tours for Kids, Maidstone Museum, Maidstone, ME14 1LH

4-6pm. Dare you leave your family behind and follow the storyteller to explore the museum’s creepy rooms? Finish by icing your own gingerbread ghost. Tours at 4pm and 5pm. Ages 7–11. For more information visit www.museum.maidstone.gov.uk

Lantern Workshop, Millbrook Garden Centre, Crowborough, TN6 3RJ

Create a spooky lantern. Charges apply. Ticket includes a spooky tattoo, biscuit and drink. For more information visit www.millbrookgc.co.uk

Thurs 31 Oct

Halloween Cookery, Chiddingstone Castle, TN8 7AD

4-7pm. Cook up your very own spooky supper in the Castle Kitchen, with goodies to take home. All ingredients and equipment provided. Also includes a torchlight tour of the castle for all the family to enjoy at the end. Ages 8-13. For more information visit www. chiddingstonecastle.org.uk

6-8.30pm. Every year Minster In Sheppey Primary School holds one of the best firework displays in the area, not just for the school but for the whole community. There’ll be a BBQ, refreshments, BRFM roadshow, glowsticks and, of course, the fireworks. Tickets are available from the school office.

Gates open at 6.30pm and the firework display starts at 8pm. Also includes a fun fair from 5-9pm, live music from 7pm and refreshments. The event is free. For more information visit www. visitgravesend.co.uk

Fireworks Night, Cobtree Manor Park Golf Course, Nr Maidstone, ME14 3AZ

There is nowhere better to celebrate Bonfire Night than this beautiful open green space with rolling hills and the beautiful Kent countryside as a backdrop. From 6pm there’ll be a BBQ, sweets and popcorn, glow lights and face painting. Fireworks start at 7.30pm. For more information visit www. mytimeactive.co.uk

Spell Workshop, Millbrook Garden Centre, Crowborough, TN6 3RJ

10.30am and 2pm. Create a magic potion and wand. Charges apply. Ticket includes a spooky tattoo, biscuit and drink. For more information visit www.millbrookgc. co.uk

Sat 2 Nov

Marden Fireworks Display, Southons Field, Tonbridge, TN12 9AB

Gates open at 5pm, with refreshments and glow toys available on the field. A colourful spectacular in the night sky, accompanied to music! For more information see their Facebook page.

Edenbridge Bonfire Night

November Fri 1 Nov

West Farleigh Fireworks, Elmscroft Park, ME15 0NU

Gates open from 6pm to soak up the atmosphere of a great village event. Enjoy musical entertainment,

At 6.30pm a torch lit procession tours through the town. Then make your way to the Recreation Ground where fairground rides, stalls, and the resident DJ keep everyone amused during Kent’s

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 20...

t ’ a s h N ew W

Grab Millions in Bank Attack

Bank Attack is a new, intense and addictive cooperative game for all the family.Work together as criminal masterminds to crack the vault and release the gold hidden inside.You’ve got just ﬁve minutes to pull off the heist of the century. Pick your role in the group, hacker, money man, look out or explosives expert, and use your special talents to break the bank. Select a difﬁculty level, then follow the spoken commands without delay. Grab the right tools, pass them on at the right moment, use them quickly and grab the millions. Bank Attack is for 2 - 4 villains aged 7+ and available to buy at Argos, Smyths, Amazon and The Entertainer for £24.99.

Meet the Coding Critters

Teach children the fundamentals of coding without the need for a screen, with new Coding Critters. Scamper, Ranger and Rumble provide a fun, hands-on approach to real coding concepts whilst sparking your little one’s imagination. Pop it into play mode and feed, pet and take care of your new friend, just like a real pet. Each Critter comes complete with a 22 piece play-set and full-colour storybook unique to them, brimming with adventures and exciting coding challenges. Suitable for ages 4+, Coding Critters introduce little learners to critical thinking, problem solving and other STEM skills.They are available from Amazon for £40. For more information, visit www.learningresources.co.uk.

Fulton’s Funbrellas for Children

The unpredictable British weather can make the walk to school tough, so it’s important to make sure your little ones are prepared with an umbrella you can rely on. Designed with kids in mind, the Funbrella uses patented safety technology to ensure that your child’s hands are kept safe when opening and closing their umbrella. It provides full coverage over heads and shoulders and the clear dome canopy allows superior visibility for a safer trip. With fun and colourful designs including ﬂorals, diggers and cars your little one will never want to leave the house without their new funbrella. Fulton’s Funbrellas are available from www.fultonumbrellas.com. Prices start from £13.

Junior Alias

Guess the drawing and keep on scoring in this frantic family favourite.While you describe the drawing on the card, other players guess what it is. Sounds easy? The only problem is that you can’t say certain words. Ideal for younger kids, Junior Alias lets children learn a little and laugh a lot.The game helps players make connections between words and pictures, whilst being laugh-aloud-fun for everyone. It comes complete with 300 cards, a board, sand timer and colourful playing pieces and is perfect for four or more players aged 5+. Junior Alias is available from Amazon for £9.99.

My Gator Watch - Watch, Phone and GPS Tracker My Gator Watch is a watch and wearable phone with GPS tracking designed speciﬁcally for 5 - 12 year olds. Sure to delight any lucky recipient on Christmas Day, the watch is ideal for those who are too young for smartphones but old enough to start having some independence. The watch’s inbuilt GPS provides peace of mind by showing you where your child is and enabling you to call them at any time. The product is consistently the highest rated smartwatch for kids on Amazon. My Gator Watch is available for £99 plus £9 - £11 per month for a multi-network plan. For more information, visit www.mygatorwatch.com.

MyFirst Drone

Oaxis’ myFirst Drone is a simple and safe drone that uses two-sensors to enable obstacle avoidance when in flight and has enclosed propellers so kids aren’t at any risk when playing. Using the altitude hover, along with underside sensor, it flies by simply throwing it into the air and can stay in motion and hover under three metres for seven minutes of flight time. When play time is coming to an end, it will gradually descend for a safe landing with no risk of breakage. When the battery has run out, the drone only takes 40 minutes to charge.Available in both blue and pink, they are suitable for ages 4+. myFirst Drone is available for £34.99 from Argos, Maplin and Amazon.

Pepper Mint – The Magnificent Mars Expedition Pepper Mint is back, but this time in space. In this story-based STEM kit, the creative young heroine goes on a mission to the Red Planet, making all sorts of out-of-this-world scientific discoveries along the way. Use colourfully printed wooden panels to construct your own models of Pepper’s rocket ship experiment-and-play station and Mars Rover. The models become the setting for infinite adventures and storylines, limited only by your imagination. Once the models are made, you can start running experiments from floating astronauts to magnetic slime and Pepper Mint accompanies you every step of the way. Pepper Mint – The Magnificent Mars Expedition is available online for £25. For more information, please visit www.thamesandkosmos.co.uk.

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for October and November

November oldest and best traditional fireworks display. For more details visit www. edenbridgebonfire.co.uk .

Bonfire & Fireworks Night, Central Park, Dartford, DA1 1JP

7-10pm. This event is hosted by Dartford Lions Club. For more information visit their Facebook page.

Fireworks Display, Ashford Rugby Club, TN24 9QB

Gates open at 5.30pm with a mega bonfire at 7pm and the fireworks display at 7.30pm. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.ashfordrugbyclubboxoffice. co.uk.

Bonfire and Firework Event, Quex Park and Powell-Cotton Museum, Birchington, CT7 0BH

4pm-9pm. From 6pm 1st display (not set to music), from 6.15pm Bonfire lit (noise warning – fire crackers), from 6.30pm Bon Giovi (Tribute Band), from 7.30pm 2nd display, set to 80s music (noise and vibration warning – ground maroons). For more information visit www.quexpark. co.uk

Sat 2 – Sun 3 Nov

Fireworks Spectacular, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL

Arrive from 2pm, fireworks from 5.30pm. 25,000 starbursts will fill the sky above the Castle for the for the biggest and best firework display in the South East of England, this year themed to ‘Around the World’. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.leeds-castle.com

Sun 3 Nov

Fireworks Spectacular, The Appleyard Sports Bar, Sittingbourne, ME10 1QN

Hosted by the Sporting Tree Foundation, gates open at 5.30pm. Prior to fireworks there will be Fire-artists, BBQ and bar, fairground rides and side stalls as well as food and drink stalls. Buy your glow-inthe-dark items before the fireworks begin. For more details and to buy tickets see their Facebook page.

Family Bonfire & Fireworks, Lyminge Village Hall, CT18 8EW

The Hall will be hosting a fireworks show, with gates opening at 6pm and the main event starting at 7pm. There will be food and refreshments also available. Tickets on the gate. For more details visit www. lymingevillagehall.org.uk

Truck Racing and Fireworks, Brands Hatch Circuit, Longfield, DA3 8NG

The Kent circuit’s annual fireworks display is now firmly established as one of the best in the south east, and this year’s display will be the biggest

14 Oct - 24 Nov ‘19

yet. All whilst some of the UK’s finest road-going HGVs take to the circuit with headlights ablaze for a twilight convoy. For more information and to book visit www.brandshatch.co.uk

Family Film: The NeverEnding Story, The Horsebridge Centre, Whitstable, CT5 1AF 10.45am. The NeverEnding Story, a classic Wolfgang Peterson film about a troubled young boy who opens the pages of a mysterious book and finds himself in a far-away land, filled with adventure and fantastical creatures. For more information visit www. horsebridge-centre.org.uk

Tue 5 Nov

Kent Cricket Fireworks Night, The Spitfire Ground, St Lawrence, CT1 3NZ

Alongside a breath-taking 20-minute fireworks display which forms the evening’s centrepiece, there will also be fairground attractions and live music from Old Town Souls for the whole family to enjoy, all hosted by kmfm’s, Laura Crockett in the heart of Canterbury. For more information and to book tickets visit www. kentcricket.co.uk.

Broadstairs 5th November Fireworks, Viking Bay, CT10 1NB

“

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

Fri 8 Nov

”

Breakfast Bingo, Ifield Smile, Gravesend, DA12 5JT A fun-filled morning raising funds for We are Beams and Ifield School. Prizes to be won. For more information visit the We are Beams Facebook page.

Sat 9 Nov

Craft Morning, Chiddingstone Nursery, Edenbridge, TN8 7AD 10.30am-12noon. To celebrate their 3rd Outstanding Ofsted report, join the nursery team for a morning of free craft with your children, and explore the wonderful setting in the grounds of Chiddingstone Castle. For more information visit www. chiddingstonenursery.co.uk

Fireworks Spectacular, St John’s Catholic Primary School, Gravesend, DA12 2SY

6-8.30pm. The PTA are hosting this fireworks event which includes a BBQ, glow sticks, rides and a sweet tombola. All tickets must be bought in advance. For more information and to buy tickets see their Facebook page.

See the fireworks light up the sky over the beautiful Viking Bay. Entertainment at the bandstand from 6pm. Children’s funfair rides, hot and cold food, firework display at 8pm.

Sat 9 Nov – Sat 4 Jan

Thurs 7 Nov

(Selected dates). 10.30pm-12noon. Storytellers will be picking a tale to read from the bookshelves in the story corner of The Tiger Who Came to Tea exhibition. There will be a selection of tales about tigers, classics from Judith Kerr and favourite nursery rhymes to captivate your little one. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/knole

Firework Spectacular, Kenward Place, Yalding, ME18 6AH

Gates open at 4.30pm with last entry at 7.10pm. Fireworks start at 7.30pm for an hour, with a James Bond theme. The evening also includes live music from Marylebone Jelly. For more information and to book visit www.kenward-firework-spectacular. eventbrite.co.uk.

Outdoor Classroom Day, Nationwide

Outdoor Classroom Day is a global campaign to get more children playing and learning outdoors every day at school and at home. Sign up for resources to help you join in at www.outdoorclassroomday.org.uk

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have up to date details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure the information hasn’t changed.

The Tiger Who Came to Tea Storytelling, Knole, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP

Thurs 14 Nov

The Royal Tunbridge Wells Christmas Lights, Across Town

As the lights are switched on across the town, make an evening of it and browse the local shops taking part in the Rotary Club Christmas Shop Window Competition. There’ll be a whole host of festive family activities to enjoy and a chance to see Santa Claus himself. For more information visit www.visittunbridgewells.com

Thurs 14 – Sat 16 Nov

The Wealden Times Midwinter Fair, The Hop Farm, Tonbridge, TN12 6PY

Choose from a wide selection of high-end gifts for the home or garden and the children.You’ll also find everything for the festive season, from the perfect fairy for your tree, yummy festive treats and seasonal fashion. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.wealdentimes. co.uk

Thurs 14 Nov – Sun 5 Jan Ice Skate at Bluewater, Greenhithe, DA9 9ST

Perfect for all the family to enjoy, there are skating aids for kids, bob skates for those who need to be steady on the ice and skate lessons for anyone hoping to whirl, skate and slide around the huge sparkling Christmas tree. Hot drinks and refreshments are available. For more information visit www. bluewater.co.uk

Fri 15 Nov

Canterbury Christmas Spectacular, Canterbury Town 4-6pm. See the historic city of Canterbury illuminated in magical merriment. The cast of Marlowe’s Mother Goose Pantomime will be counting down to the big switch-on, marking the opening of their Christmas market. This festive extravaganza includes a helter skelter, giant snow globe and a trail that opens on Nov 25. For more information visit www. canterburybid.co.uk

Sat 16 Nov

Rochester Christmas Lights, Rochester High Street

Fun starts at 3.45pm with lights on around 5pm. Enjoy festive music and family entertainment with kmfm host Rob Wills. Stars of the Central Theatre’s pantomime, Cinderella, will be turning on the lights alongside the Mayor of Medway. For more information visit www.medway.gov. uk/christmas

Association End of Season Special, Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, Hythe Station, TN28 8PL

This year’s association special will give you a tour of everything going on behind the scenes as the railway prepares for the busy winter period, showing the hard work everyone puts in when the railway is at its quietest. There’ll be a full round trip starting at 10am from New Romney. For more information visit www. rhdr.org.uk

Sat 16 – Sun 17 Nov

Children’s Book Festival 2019, Knole, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP Knole’s second Children’s Book Festival, and it’s bigger and better than ever. Much-loved names including Cressida Cowell, Chris Riddell, and Jacqueline Wilson. With Gromit and Shaun the Sheep workshops from animation favourites Aardman and a visit from a certain multi-coloured elephant. For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/knole

Sat 16 Nov – Tues 24 Dec

Christmas Grotto, Ruxley Manor Garden Centre, Sidcup DA14 5BQ A magical 45 minute experience in a winter wonderland where you and your children can enjoy the wonder of Father Christmas’ workshop and Grotto. Each session includes two

Your family diary for October and November

November activities, one with Mother Christmas and one with elves, before meeting Father Christmas and receiving a gift. For more information visit www. ruxley-manor.co.uk

Traditional Christmas Grotto, Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre, ME7 4PD The grotto features reindeer, set amongst a towering Christmas tree bedecked in fairy lights and beautiful rose gold, silver, pink and purple baubles. Enjoy meeting Father Christmas himself, who will have a wrapped gift for children. For more information visit www. hempsteadvalley.com.

Thurs 21 – Sun 24 Nov

Christmas Market, Chartwell, Westerham, TN16 1PS

10am-4pm. Pop along to the Christmas Market and discover a wide range of gifts from local businesses. From chocolates to candles, jewellery to hats, there is something for everyone to be found. For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell

Fri 22 Nov

Gillingham Christmas Lights, Gillingham High Street

Fun starts at 3.45pm with lights on around 5pm. Carol singing, dancing and prizes to be won. Don’t miss the Mayor of Medway and Minions Bob and Kevin turning on the Gillingham lights. Meet Minions Bob and Kevin at 2pm in the Gillingham Community Hub, free but booking is essential on 01634 337 799. For more details visit www.medway.gov.uk/christmas.

Westwood Cross Light Switch On, Westwood Cross Shopping Centre, Broadstairs, CT10 2BF

The popular shopping centre will officially launch the season in style, revealing the stunning new Christmas lights display and spectacular Toy Fort Grotto. Jingle, the seasonal Little Bear, will be available for people to scan on their phones and bring to life through snapchat augmented reality. For more information visit www.westwoodx. co.uk

Tenterden Illuminations, High Street

Tenterden kicks off their Christmas celebration with an impressive light procession and switch-on. This also marks the opening of their traditional Christmas market set along a high street full of independent retailers. If Jack Frost is nipping at your nose, warm up with a scrumptious hot chocolate in one of the quirky coffee shops nearby.

Faversham Christmas Lights, Faversham

Expect a beautiful blend of quaint town flair and good old fashioned Christmas spirit at the Faversham Christmas light switch on.You’re sure to be in awe with the huge Christmas tree in the square and streets lined with fun and festive decorations.

Christmas Fair, Chiddingstone Castle, TN8 7AD 10am-4pm. There will be over 70 hand-curated, unique and local stalls selling a wide variety of gifts, decorations, food and drink divided between the Castle and the large heated marquee. For more information visit www. chiddingstonecastle.org.uk

Torchlight Procession, Bonfire and Fireworks, King George IV Playing Field, Hawkhurst, TN18 4PG

Hawkhurst Gang Bonfire Society hold their annual Torch Light Procession to mark the end of the Sussex Bonfire Season. The procession starts at 7pm from the top of Highgate Hill and is followed by a bonfire and firework display at The Moor. For more information visit www.hgbs.org.uk

Christmas Fayre, The Guildhall, Sandwich, CT13 9AH

10am-4pm. In aid of the Martha Trust. There’ll be a huge array of seasonal treats, gift ideas, arts and crafts and Martha Trust goodies, plus a chance to meet Father Christmas. Browse the stalls, enjoy a cup of coffee and some homemade cake and sing along to your favourite Christmas Carols. For more information visit www. marthatrust.org.uk

Sat 23 Nov

The Big Chatham Christmas Launch, Pentagon Shopping Centre and Chatham High Street

A crazy Santa/Comicon/Panto mash up! At 12noon watch Santa and Cinderella from the Central Theatre’s Pantomime, arrive in the High Street parade. Enjoy the comic and screen festival where kids can ‘come as themselves and leave as a superelf’. Festive lights switch on around 5pm. For more details visit www. pentagonshoppingcentre.co.uk.

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have up to date details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure the information hasn’t changed.

“

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

”

Sat 23 – Sun 24 Nov

Festive Market, Sissinghurst Castle, nr Cranbrook, TN17 2AB

10.30am-3pm. Kick-start your Christmas shopping. Local food, drink, crafts and produce will give you ideas for all those special gifts, plus treats for you and the family. There’ll also be live entertainment with the Cranbrook Band (Sat) and the Kent Police Band (Sun). For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/sissinghurst-castle

Sat 23 Nov – Sun 8 Dec Christmas Market, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL

(Weekends only).Visit the Christmas Market on the lawn overlooking the Castle to discover a splendid array of seasonal gifts, toys, festive decorations, specialist food and drink. Enjoy nostalgic fairground rides whilst live music keeps everyone entertained. Normal admission applies. For more information visit www.leeds-castle.com

Sat 23 Nov – Sun 15 Dec

Father Christmas, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL

(Selected dates). 10.30am -4pm. Wander through the Christmas Market to an enchanted path leading to a magical grotto. Father Christmas will be waiting to greet you. Those who have been good, which of course you all are, will receive a traditional gift to take home. For more information and to book visit www.leeds-castle.com

Sat 23 Nov – Tues 24 Dec

Christmas at Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

During the day you will be met with beautifully decorated Castle rooms, welcoming log fires and twinkling Christmas trees. Outside in the grounds follow the whimsical Alice in a Christmas Wonderland themed interactive trail and wander through the illuminated gardens as dusk falls. For more information visit www. hevercastle.co.uk

Millbrook Grotto, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend, DA13 9PA

A truly magical experience awaits children of all ages in the Magical Millbrook Grotto. Receive a special train ticket to board the Millbrook Express and be transported to a winter wonderland. Enjoy games, make magical reindeer food and Christmas badges with Santa’s elves. For more information visit www. millbrookgc.co.uk

November Noel Non-Stops, Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, Hythe Station, TN28 8PL

Depart New Romney Station for the 30 minute journey to Dungeness where you will spend the next hour. Meet Santa and the children will receive their gift.Afterwards enjoy seasonal refreshments at the End of the Line Restaurant before re-joining the train for the return journey. For more information visit www.rhdr.org.uk

What’s On

More What’s On

Sat 23 Nov – Wed 1 Jan Magical Birds and Festive Feathers, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL

Let your Christmas wishes take flight at Leeds Castle as the beautiful state rooms are transformed into a magical kingdom of birds and festive feathers. Start your journey through the magnificent Castle rooms with a magical forest of owls to red breasted robins surrounded by glittering snowdrops. For more information visit www.leeds-castle. com

Sat 23 Nov – Sun 5 Jan

Christmas Eve with the Hussey Family, Scotney Castle, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 8JN Celebrate the Victorian Christmas that the Hussey family would have enjoyed. Play with children’s toys under the Christmas tree and see the dining room being dressed for Christmas celebrations. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/scotney-castle

Noah’s Ark Children’s Trail, Scotney Castle, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 0TG

Take part in the festive family trail around the garden inspired by the Victorian Noah’s ark that will be on display in the house. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/scotney-castle

Fri 29 Nov

Rainham Christmas Lights, Rainham Shopping Centre, ME8 7HW

Fun starts at 3.45pm with lights on around 5pm. Join the carol singing and enjoy family entertainment with kmfm presenter Andy Walker. The lights will be turned on by the Mayor of Medway and Shrek! Meet Shrek at 2pm in Rainham Library, free but booking essential on 01634 337 799. For more information visit www. medway.gov.uk/christmas

Fri 29 Nov - Sun 22 Dec

Christmas Market, Folkestone, CT20 1TU

The new Folkestone Christmas Market will include a great array of gifts and a fabulous selection of food. There will be live entertainment, a golden ticket hunt, arts and crafts, and festively decorated wooden cabins, with Father Christmas popping by during the opening weekend. For more information visit www.christmasmarkets.com

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

14 Oct - 24 Nov ‘19

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for October and November

November Sat 30 Nov

Strood Christmas Lights, Friary Place, Strood High Street

Fun starts at 3.45pm with lights on around 5pm. Singing, dance, musical theatre and competitions with kmfm’s Rob Wills. The lights will be turned on by the Deputy Mayor of Medway and Kung Fu Panda star Po. Meet Po at 2pm at the Strood Community Hub, free but booking essential on 01634 337 799. For more information visit www.medway. gov.uk/christmas

Christmas Lights Switch On, Sandwich, Various Locations

There will be festive stalls, street entertainment and food and drink. Stalls will be on the Guildhall Forecourt and inside the Guildhall itself from 10am. A funfair will be on the Guildhall car park. There will be a lantern-lit parade around the town in early evening and the Christmas Lights switch on at 7pm. For more information visit www. sandwichevents.org.uk

Willow Christmas Decorations, Bore Place, Chiddingstone, TN8 7AR 10am-2pm and 3-7pm. Ditch the plastic mass-produced Christmas decorations - and make your own. Angels, stars or Christmas trees and a wreath - use locally grown willow and hedgerow materials to make your own decorations. For more information visit and to book visit www.boreplace.org

Sat 30 Nov – Sun 1 Dec Christmas: Storytelling Weekend, Chartwell, Westerham, TN16 1PS

9.30-11am, 11am-12.30pm, 1-2.30pm, 2.30-4pm. Enjoy story time with Mrs Everest, Winston Churchill’s nanny, this Christmas. See the tale of the Gingerbread Man come to life and enjoy arts and crafts activities. For more information and to book visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell

Christmas Mini-Market and Opening Weekend, Ightham Mote, nr Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT 10am-4pm. There will be local producer stalls to get those Christmas gifts. Father Christmas is visiting from 11am-2.30pm and will be handing out gifts to children. There will also be craft activities, a trail for children, as well as other fun festivities. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ighthammote

Sat 30 Nov – Sun 15 Dec Christmas Trail: Hunt the Slipper, Quebec House, Westerham, TN16 1TD

1-4pm. Delve into Georgian family traditions at Christmas time with

14 Oct - 24 Nov ‘19

Quebec House’s family trail. The Georgians loved playing all sorts of different games such as hunting for slippers hidden around the house as a Christmas game for the children. Complete the trail this winter and discover all about the Georgian tradition. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quebechouse

A Georgian Christmas, Quebec House, Westerham, TN16 1TD

1-4pm. The house will be decorated in the Georgian period style. Featuring natural foliage, garlands wound around the banisters and a sumptuous Georgian feast to admire. For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/quebec-house

Rochester Christmas Market, Rochester Castle Gardens, ME1 1SW

(Selected dates and times). Browse a variety of stalls for unique gift ideas and stocking fillers. Wander through the Bavarian food village or visit the funfair. There will also be live performers. For more information visit www.medway.gov.uk

Sat 30 Nov – Sun 22 Dec

Santa Specials, Sittingbourne & Kemsley Light Railway, ME10 2XD

(Selected dates). 11am, 12noon, 2pm, 3pm. After the journey to Kemsley Down, Father Christmas leads passengers to the Footplate Café where adults receive their seasonal refreshments and children visit Santa’s Grotto. For more information visit www.sklr.net

Sat 30 Nov – Mon 23 Dec

A Truly Magical Christmas, Rare Breeds Centre, Ashford, TN26 3RJ

Christmas is coming and Santa and his friends will be visiting for another season of festive fun. Receive a warm welcome in the magical grotto and take part in festive interactive fun with Santa and ‘The Naughty Snowman’, then meet Santa for a one-to-one chat. For more information visit www.rarebreeds. org.uk

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have up to date details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure the information hasn’t changed.

“

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

”

Sat 30 Nov – Tues 24 Dec

Santa Specials, Kent & East Sussex Railway, Tenterden, TN30 6HE

On board the festively decorated steam trains, you’ll meet Santa during the 1 hour 10 minute return journey. Look out for his elf helpers with their sacks full of lovely presents - every child receives an age appropriate gift from Santa himself whilst teenagers (13 to 15) receive festive chocolates. For more information visit www.kesr.org.uk

Millbrook Grotto, Millbrook Garden Centre, Staplehurst, TN12 9BT

wheelchairs and sleighs all welcome. Entry includes a 5-piece Santa Suit. For more information visit www. pilgrimshospices.org

Sun 1 – Mon 16 Dec

Father Christmas at The Ice Rink, Calverley Grounds, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1BT

(Selected dates). 10am-6pm. Go along to this amazing open-air ice rink in Calverley Grounds.You can also visit the wonderful Father Christmas in his cosy, warm log cabin set in the trees and snow. For more information and to book visit www. visittunbridgewells.com

Sun 1 – Mon 23 Dec

Father Christmas, The Hop Farm, Tonbridge, TN12 6PY

(Selected dates). 10.30am-4.40pm. Treat the kids and meet the big FC up close and in person in his magical grotto experience. Lots of festive fun to be had in the Big Red Grotto. For more information visit www. thehopfarm.co.uk

Sun 1 – Tues 24 Dec

Santa By Train, East Kent Railway, Shepherdswell, CT15 7PD

(Selected Dates). Enjoy a jolly on the festively decorated train down to the North Pole and meet Santa in his grotto with his elves. Children receive a personalised present suitable for their age and gender and adults receive a Mince Pie and Sherry or Hot Drink. For more information visit www.eastkentrailway.co.uk

Rudolph’s Romney Return, Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, Hythe Station, TN28 8PL

The Elf Express & Magical Elf Forest, Quex Park and PowellCotton Museum, Birchington, CT7 0BH

(Selected dates). Depart Hythe (CT21 6LD) station for the 30 minute journey to New Romney where your hour of festive fun begins. See Santa arrive on his sleigh and visit him in his grotto for the children to receive their gift. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.rhdr.org.uk

Venture though the Magical Elf Forest where you will be greeted by 3 very cheerful elves with a sweet treat or two for you to take away, but of course, that is only if you have been good this year! Then climb the winding staircase to meet Santa for a Christmas story and present. For more information visit www. quexpark.co.uk

December

Sat 14 Dec

Sun 1 Dec

Christmas Lights Switch On, Station Road, Westgate-onSea, CT8

11am-5pm. Station Road plays host to a fantastic day for all the family - Father Christmas in person, exciting funfair for all the family, entertainment throughout the day, carol singing and over 70 craft and food stalls. Loads of fun and laughter promised all day. Light switch on 4.30pm.

Santas on the Run! Herne Bay Seafront Join the jolliest jog of the year as you dash along Herne Bay seafront with hundreds of fellow Santas in aid of Pilgrims Hospices. An event for everyone, you can walk, run, jump or skip along. Buggies,

Pentagon Panto-thon, Pentagon Shopping Centre, Chatham ME4 4HY

See local school children participate in ‘variety-style’ performances throughout the day on the first floor of the Pentagon. For more information visit www. pentagonshoppingcentre.co.uk

Our next copy deadline is

8 November 2019 If you have something you would like us to try and publicise (space permitting) please email it to

listings@ primarytimes.biz

All your own work! Sophia Stretton aged 4

Brooke Ann Baker aged 9 years 5 months

Frankie White won a competitions in our September Back to School issue. Congratulations to the following people who won getting a visit from the be will l Schoo ry Prima Wood from Bysing short break to Parc Asterix. Cara Hughes and the pupils rworth, Amelie was won by Eshan Rana, Ashlyn Joseph, Tristan Butte Reindeer Centre. The Wonder Park DVD competition Ardingly. at Fair Game and Show n ey won tickets to the Autum Hill and Thomas Windle. Emma Cooke and Lara Broml prize from inding spellb a won nna McKe Henry Orchard Theatre. Jacob Lucy Cornwall won tickets to Billionaire Boy at the Roisin ews, -Andr the Mini Maestro concerts were won by James Geary The Historic Dockyard Chatham. Family tickets for won a Irving Lola an. Rahm Ice tickets were won by Leon Lau and Kinza for Jackson, Emma Gange and Emily Quinn. Disney on etition comp ring colou Annie our won on of Adventures. Sophia Strett family ticket to Howl'o'ween at Chessington World page. this on rk artwo the enjoy and rs winne our all to Baker. Well done the under 8's and our older winner was Brooke Ann

Thank you to Ms Khalid and Class G1, Year 2 from Nelson Primary School for their excellent drawings. We received an envelope with entries from the whole class which made judging them very difficult for us. Enjoy the four examples of their hard work and thank you very much Class G1! We love seeing your work so do please keep sending it to us. We're happy to receive artwork from the whole class so do feel free to send us class entries.

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

N U F & S T H G I R F Y L I M FA 9-27 OCTOBER 1

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