February Half Term 2020 Primary Times in East Kent by Alison Watson

What’s On Where

38,040 COPIES FOR FAMILIES OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN

East Kent

February Half Term Activities

Sat 15th - Sun 23rd February 2020

Fun for all the family in Swale! Sports & Games

Arts & Crafts

AT SWALLOWS

Book Online Now!

Swimming * For adults and children aged 5+

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

Sheppey Leisure Complex Off the Broadway, Sheerness, Kent, ME12 1HH Tel: 01795 506582 SheppeyLeisureComplex

For full details of activities, visit www.swaleleisure.com

HALF TERM FUN • COMPETITIONS • THEATRE • EDUCATION NEWS EAST KENT FEBRUARY 2020.indd 1

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2020 3 FEBRUARY - 15 MARCH 2020 ISSUE 122 28/01/2020 13:46

What’s On

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

Until 7 Mar

Eurotunnel 25 Years On, Folkestone Museum, CT10 1DY To celebrate their 25th anniversary Eurotunnel have commissioned a special exhibition, with everything from geology and archaeology to science and engineering. For more information visit www. folkestonemuseum.co.uk

February Wed 5 Feb

Lego® Club, Rainham Library, ME8 7HB 4-5.30pm. Go crazy with the world’s favourite blocks – build, play and have fun. Ages 4+. For more information visit www. medway.gov.uk

provided. Donations gratefully received. For more information visit www.folkestonemuseum. co.uk Charity Fundraiser, Tenterden High Street Phil Sweatman will be running up and down the length of Tenterden High Street dressed as a tractor as part of his CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young) London Marathon fundraising. Go along and watch and donate some money if you would like to. For more of his story visit www. teambenhammond.co.uk Heads-Bodies-Legs with Ruby Bolton, Quarterhouse, Folkestone, CT20 1BN 11am-3pm. Using bold shapes, patterns and bright colours, create your own exquisite corpse. Stack and twist your cubes to reveal endless combinations of weird and wonderful characters. Free, drop-in. For more information visit www. creativefolkestone.org.uk Lego® Club, Hoo Library, Rochester, ME3 9AL 3-5pm. Go crazy with the world’s favourite blocks – build, play and have fun! Ages 4+. Under 8s must be accompanied by an adult. For more information visit www. medway.gov.uk

Sat 8 – Sun 9 Feb

February Crafty Weekender, Margate Caves, CT9 1QH 11am-4pm. In celebration of the Harry Potter Book Day!, Waterstones, Folkestone, CT20 amazing animals in the Caves, you’ll be doing craft activities 1DP with a creature theme. At least 3 3.30-5.30pm. This year’s theme is the ‘Triwizard Tournament’ so activities to choose from. Charges apply. For more information visit can you beat the age line and get your name in ‘The Goblet of www.margatecaves.co.uk Fire’? Also attempt a summoning charm, decorate a goblet and navigate a maze to get to the cup. Dress up if you like. For more information visit www. waterstones.com

Thurs 6 Feb

Sat 8 Feb

Be a Roman Legionary, Folkestone Museum, CT10 1DY 10.30am-12.30pm, 1.30-3.30pm. Try on Roman armour, make a gladius and mini trebuchet and find out why the Roman army was an unstoppable force in the ancient world. All materials 2

3 Feb - 15 Mar ‘20

EAST KENT FEBRUARY 2020.indd 2

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.

“

Mon 10 Feb

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

”

Sat 8 – Sun 23 Feb

Comics: Explore and Create Comic Art with Seven Stories, The Beaney, Canterbury, CT1 2RA An interactive comic exhibition. Immerse yourself in an eclectic mix of original, iconic comic art alongside work by current children’s comic creators. This colourful and interactive exhibition will delight the whole family. For more information visit www.canterburymuseums.co.uk

Sat 8 Feb – Sun 1 Mar

Snowdrop Walk, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Follow a trail of thousands of snowdrops starting to emerge from their winter hibernations – the first sign that spring is just around the corner. Then stroll through the gardens and enjoy the early blossoms of camellia and quince. For more information visit www. hevercastle.co.uk

Sun 9 Feb

Vintage Fair, Gravesend Borough Market, DA11 0AZ 10am-3pm. A day filled with vintage and retro fashion, accessories, jewellery, homeware, food and live entertainment. For more information visit www. gravesendboroughmarket.co.uk Snowdrop and Plant Fair Roadshow, Hole Park Garden, Cranbrook, TN17 4JA 11am-3pm. Organised by a small team of enthusiastic growers, dedicated to promoting reliable and unusual plants to keen gardeners. Including a wide range of small nurseries from the area creating a memorable gardening event. Charges apply. For more information visit www.holepark. com

Beginner Japanese, Chiddingstone Castle, TN8 7AD (Also 4 Mar). 4-5.30pm. An introduction to the Japanese language for children aged 8-11. Free, but booking essential. For more information and to book visit www.chiddingstonecastle. org.uk, call 01892 870 347 or email education@ chiddingstonecastle.org.uk

Tues 11 Feb

Introduction to Origami, Chiddingstone Castle, TN8 7AD (Also 2 Mar). 4-5.30pm. Try out the art of origami, the Japanese art of paper folding. For children aged 8-11. Free, but booking essential. For more details and to book call 01892 870 347, email education@chiddingstonecastle. org.uk or visit www. chiddingstonecastle.org.uk

Wed 12 Feb

Japanese Calligraphy, Chiddingstone Castle, TN8 7AD (Also 3 Mar). 4-5.30pm. Learn how to paint Japanese characters in a traditional calligraphy lesson. For children aged 8-11. Free, but booking essential. For more details and to book call 01892 870 347, email education@ chiddingstonecastle.org.uk or visit www.chiddingstonecastle. org.uk

Thurs 13 Feb – Wed 4 Mar

Museum of the Moon, Rochester Cathedral, ME1 1SX A giant replica of the Moon which has wowed audiences across the world is coming to Rochester Cathedral. The Moon will be installed in the Nave and will be the first time it has been displayed in Kent. For more information visit www. rochestercathedral.org

Fri 14 – Sun 23 Feb

Circus Zyair, The Hop Farm, Tonbridge, TN12 6PY High energy spectacle abounds as Circus Zyair presents its varied show beneath a big-top

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 8

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 Jordan Harris & Andrew Langridge Listings: Catherine Draisey & Hayley Hughes Production: Alison Watson Office Manager: Chris Blower Administrators: Claire Wood & Tina Love Proof Reading: Christopher Fox Editorial Assistants: Dunya Simões & Eleanor Getting Social Media: Rachel Benson Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in infant and primary schools throughout Kent. Its aims are to inform families and children of current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses and attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or joining in the competitions which we run. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically based material whatsoever. We also undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best interests of young children. The opinions expressed in either the editorial or advertisements within this publication are not necessarily those held by the editor or publisher. While we take great care with the compilation of information within this magazine, neither the editor nor publisher will accept any liability for the accuracy of the editorial or advertising contained within the publication. We welcome listings being sent to us for inclusion in our What’s On section. Free listings are dependent on available space and we cannot guarantee to print all the listings we are sent. Please send them to listings@primarytimes.biz. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in Kent for their assistance in distributing the magazine and for their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible. Please support their endeavours when and where you can. No part of this magazine, including the advertisements within it may be reproduced, in part or in whole, without the express written permission of the Publishing Editor. Primary Times is currently publishing over 2.5 million copies per issue under franchise licences throughout England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Primary Times East Kent is operated under franchise licence.

So here’s to the first edition of Primary Times in 2020. Christmas and the New Year holiday seem a long time ago now and in what looks like no time at all we are already at the first school break for 2020. Having looked for some ideas on what is happening over the next couple of months, there are some exciting things coming up as well as some slightly stranger things... Charles Dickens would have been 208 years old on Friday 7 February. For Dickens fans there is a Charles Dickens Museum in London - see www.dickensmuseum.com for details. Then on Monday 10 February it is ‘Umbrella Day’ - don’t forget to take yours with you to school that day! Valentine’s Day is on Friday 14 February, followed by delicious pancakes for Shrove Tuesday on 25 February. World Book Day is on Thursday 5 March. Check out www.worldbookday.com to find out about the 12 special World Book Day books available at £1 each. Sport Relief is back on Friday 13 March. This time they’re asking you to help them take on poverty and injustice in the UK and across the world by getting your kit on and raising some life-changing cash. So whether you walk, dance, swim, floss or round up your mates for a match, order your free fundraising pack, have fun and help to make a real difference. It’s Game On. Visit www.sportrelief.com for the latest details. Our Easter magazine is published on Monday 16 March so look out for it in schools that week - just in time for World Poetry Day on Saturday 21 March, Mother’s Day/Mothering Sunday on 22 March and Spanish Paella Day on Friday 27 March....! What a busy Spring time we’re going to be having.

EAST KENT FEBRUARY 2020.indd 3

Latest News..............................4 Family Theatre..........................6 Whatever the Weather............ 11 Out of School Activities................15 Education News....................... 16 Katie Clown.............................20 Competitions........................... 21 All Your Own Work!.................23

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

World Book Day is the registered charity behind the world’s biggest annual celebration of children’s books, with a mission to offer every child and young person the opportunity to read and love books. It is sponsored by National Book Tokens and supported generously each year by the publishing industry, book trade, authors and illustrators. Every year, with a host of publishers, World Book Day curates a list of bespoke £1 books for children and young people across the UK and Ireland, which they can choose for

Contents inside this issue....

free at their local bookshop or supermarket using their £1 World Book Day book token. This year’s list of £1 books is the most diverse to date and packed with best-selling authors and illustrators. International bestseller Anthony Horowitz returns to the secret world of MI6 with new classified files from Alex Rider. Onjali Q Raúf, founder of Making Herstory and multiaward-winning author of The Boy at the Back of the Class, shares The Day We Met the Queen. For older readers there is empowering new non-fiction from author of You Are Awesome, award-winning journalist and former Olympian, Matthew Syed. The Kissing Booth (one of Netflix’s most successful films of 2018) continues in The Kissing Booth: Road Trip! by Beth Reekles, and Split, a powerful new story by the author of I Am Thunder and winner of the Branford Boase award, Muhammad Khan, will also be available. Share a Story is the theme at the heart of a three year World Book Day campaign, encouraging parents and carers to go beyond dressing up to read and share stories with their children for ten minutes every day. Sharing stories together – anywhere, anytime – for just ten minutes a day has long-lasting effects on a child’s future. World Book Day aims to inspire new reading habits for adults and children, underlining just how important this shared time is. The organisation is bringing together some of the most influential people in the country - from celebrities and TV presenters, to politicians and sports stars - to promote reading for pleasure and asking them to #ShareaStory on 5 March. The day also sees children bringing books to life through an array of organised events and activities in schools, bookshops, libraries and at home. World Book Day will be taking place on the 5 March. For more information, please visit www.worldbookday.com.

3 Feb - 15 Mar ‘20

28/01/2020 13:46

Latest News

Stagecoach Buses Help Raise Do You Own the UK’s Most Marvellous Moggy? Funds for Disabled Riding Cat lovers are being invited to nominate their furry friends for the biggest event in the feline year – the Centre National Cat Awards 2020. Run by the charity Cats

Photo credit: Rosemary Silver

3 Feb - 15 Mar ‘20

28/01/2020 13:46

Family Theatre

Quarterhouse Folkestone

stage in this beautifully crafted and hilarious live stage show.

Box Ofﬁce: 01303 760 750 29 Feb

The Bone Ensemble: Gulp!

The best shows around... Alexander Centre Faversham

Box Ofﬁce: 01795 591 691 16 Feb

Blue Planet 3

Climb aboard an adventure to save the oceans. Featuring swashbuckling swordfish and nasty things that lurk at the bottom of the sea. A comedy nature documentary for the whole family.

Avenue Sittingbourne

Box Ofﬁce: 01795 471 140 22 Feb

Leaping Frog

‘Goggles’ the wood frog croons her jelly tadpoles asleep – but that’s before a boing and a doing on the yellow pond lily catapults her from Little Pond into a much bigger one. Ages 3+.

Gulbenkian Canterbury

Box Ofﬁce: 01227 769 075 29 Feb

Brace of Spades

Featuring Tom Brace’s unique blend of comedy and magic, the show promises a little something for everybody. Featuring stunts of danger, classic game shows revisited and of audience participation.

Marlowe Canterbury Swan Lake

19 – 20 Feb

Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever

forget to say you saw it in

Primary Times!

Get ready for a road trip full of fun adventures. From castles to caves, dragons to dinosaurs and ice creams to muddy puddles – there is something for all of the family and their friends to enjoy.

20 Feb

The Adventures of Bo Peep

Counting her sheep always sends Bo Peep off to sleep by bedtime, but with no sign of them yet she’ll be up all night searching. Help Bo Peep to save her little lambkins from danger in time for bed.

21 – 22 Feb

Gulp!

Bonhomme

8 Mar

3 Feb - 15 Mar ‘20

EAST KENT FEBRUARY 2020.indd 6

Same Same…But Different

The Russian State Ballet and Orchestra of Siberia bring Tchaikovsky’s haunting and unforgettable the show! score to life. And don’t

7 Mar

14 Mar

Mixing Kathak, Hip Hop, contemporary dance and physical storytelling, to create a colourful and playful world exploring curiosities and fears, when we feel different and when we belong. Ages Enjoy 5+.

Box Ofﬁce: 01227 787 787 11 – 15 Feb

Maya loves water - swimming in the sea, splashing in her paddling pool. But one summer’s day, she gets sucked up the bathroom tap and along the water pipes.

This new immersive and participatory show seamlessly blends storytelling, theatre, live music and philosophy for children. Based in a community garden. Ages 5+.

Maya loves water. But one summer’s day she gets sucked up the bathroom tap and along the water pipes. A magical story about how to care for the world and its precious resources. Ages 7+.

Philharmonia Orchestra: Family Concert

Cheer for the underdog, feel the thrill of a race, and share in the joy of triumph over adversity as you hear musical favourites from film and television, as well as timeless classics for symphony orchestra.

Theatre Royal Margate

Box Ofﬁce: 01843 292 795 20 – 22 Feb

The Wizard from Auss

Lost in an unfamiliar land, join Dorothy and her faithful dog Tony on a whirlwind adventure as they try to find their way back to her Auntie Em at Thanet Farm. BSL Signed performance on 20 Feb.

14 Mar

Morgan & West – Unbelievable Science Captivating chemistry, phenomenal physics, bonkers biology! Expect explosive thrills, chemical spills and a risk assessment that gives their stage manager the chills.

Glassbox Theatre, Gillingham

Box Ofﬁce: 01634 383 388 22 Feb

Storyteller, Storyteller

What happens when two storytellers arrive at the same place at the same time to tell their stories? A head-tohead that leads to a feast of clowning, comic competition and physical silliness.

27 - 28 Mar

Mr Men & Little Miss On Stage

9 April

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly

This magical show has been written especially for grown-ups to enjoy with their children, so go along and relive the delights of this most mesmerising of tales. Ages 2-102.

The Woodville Gravesend

Box Ofﬁce: 01474 337 500 15 Feb

Ariana and JoJo

Tributes to global superstar Ariana Grande and kids’ sensation JoJo Siwa together in the most exciting new Pop production.

16 Feb

Mama G’s Story Time Roadshow Meet Mama G’s range of wonderful characters, including the first lady to go into space, a goat with a wind problem and Little Roar, the fashionista dinosaur.

Assembly Hall Tunbridge Wells

Box Ofﬁce: 01892 530 613 8 Feb

We Love Little Mix

If you love Little Mix, you are going to just love this show, which features all-live vocals, breathtaking costumes and an impressive light and video show, and is packed with all your favourite Little Mix songs.

Orchard Dartford

Box Ofﬁce: 01322 220 000 6 – 8 Feb

The Sleeping Beauty

The Moscow City Ballet tells the enchanting and romantic story to Tchaikovsky’s glorious music. Brimming with Russia’s best dancers, beautiful sets and stunning costumes.

Stag Sevenoaks

Box Ofﬁce: 01732 450 175 12 Mar

The Sleeping Beauty

The Vienna Festival Ballet celebrate their 40th anniversary with this classic fairy tale. Set to Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score with stunning choreography and beautiful costumes.

Join your favourite Mr Men and Little Miss characters as they leap off the page and onto the

Kent is Delicious Cookery Competition

Open to all primary school age children in Kent

In groups of up to four, create a breakfast dish using local, seasonal ingredients

Three lucky groups will be chosen to cook their dishes in the main Show Kitchen at the Kent County Show on Friday 10th July with prizes of:

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

Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever WED 19 & THU 20 FEB Peppa Pig is excited to be going on a special day out with George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig - it’s going to be her best day ever!

Closing date 21st May 2020 For full competition details and how to enter visit: www.canterburydiocese.org/kentisdelicious @KentisDelicious

marlowetheatre.com 01227 787787

Email kentisdelicious@diocant.org for more information and the chance to win mini prizes *Prizes given as gift vouchers

February Half Term Activities with Swale Community Leisure

Swallows

Sheppey

15th - 23rd February 2020

• Swimming

• Inflatable Obstacle Course

• Clip ‘n’ Climb

• Family Swimming

• Arts & Crafts

• Cinema

• Sports Activities

Sports & Games

• Sports & Games

* For adults and children aged 5+

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

EAST KENT FEBRUARY 2020.indd 7

Arts & Crafts

Swimming

Book Online Now! AT SWALLOWS

AT SWALLOWS

Sheppey Leisure Complex Off the Broadway, Sheerness Kent, ME12 1HH Tel: 01795 506582 SheppeyLeisureComplex

For full details about activities visit

www.swaleleisure.com

3 Feb - 15 Mar ‘20

28/01/2020 13:46

What’s On

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

February tent. A ragtag band of clowns, acrobats and jugglers plies its distinctive talents before fearless daredevils brave the high wire and wheel of death. For more details and to book visit www. thehopfarm.co.uk

Sat 15 Feb

Aardman Model Making Workshop, Dreamland, Margate, CT9 1XJ The famous animation studio will be hosting a series of workshops, where ticket holders can craft one of their favourite Aardman characters and watch a few of their favourite films. Charges apply. Advance booking strongly recommended. For more details and to book visit www. dreamland.co.uk

Green Gang Event, Burgoyne Heights Preschool, Dover, CT15 5LY Build a bird box from a kit. Helpers will guide you through the process and you can take it home when it’s finished. Booking essential by emailing bookings.wccp@gmail.com. For more information visit www. whitecliffscountryside.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 Boy with the Saucepan Hat There’s really only one word to describe this book and that’s ‘FUN’. The Boy with the Saucepan Hat is the hilarious new book from local Kent author Martyn Harvey. When Oliver Todd wakes up with a saucepan stuck on his head, he is obviously a bit cheesed off. But when he gets to the hospital Emergency Room, things go from bad to worse. The book is written in charming rhyming couplets. That sounds complicated but in fact it makes it great fun to read and enhances the comedy. Younger children will enjoy having it read to them while older ones will have a lovely time reading it for themselves. They’ll have to prise it away from their mums and dads first though! Also, if you do have to take a child to hospital, this is the book to take. It will take some of the boredom out of the wait and make the whole experience a bit less scary. Oh and watch out for the dragon or was it a crocodile? (You’ll have to read the book to understand the significance of that). The Boy with the Saucepan Hat by Martyn Harvey is published by Penzance Press. It has its own website www. TheSaucepanHat.co.uk and is available from good High Street bookshops and online via Amazon, Waterstones and Foyles at recommended price of £5.99. 8

3 Feb - 15 Mar ‘20

EAST KENT FEBRUARY 2020.indd 8

“

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

”

Trash and Treasure, St Nicholasat-Wade Church, Birchington, CT7 0NR 9.30am-12noon. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure… with glass, china, books, toys, clothes and much more on sale, there is not a better time or place to find that elusive treasure. For more information visit www.visitthanet. co.uk Family Rave in the Caves, Margate Caves, CT9 1QH 4.15-6.15pm. Kick off the half term holidays with something different - a silent disco in the Caves. Each child will get free glow sticks and there will be nibbles and drinks available. For more information visit www.margatecaves.co.uk Tonbridge Model Railway Exhibition, The Angel Centre, Tonbridge, TN9 1SF One of the largest one-day model railway shows in the area. Over 30 layouts covering a wide range of scales, time periods and locations. Something for everyone. For more information visit www. tonbridgemrc.com Crazy Hats, Cuxton Library, Rochester, ME2 1EY 11.30am-12.30pm. Have fun with Crazy Hats at this free half term activity. Ages 4-10. Booking essential. For more information visit www.medway.gov.uk Build a Bird Box, Burgoyne Heights Preschool, Dover CT15 5LY 10.30am. Go along and build your bird box from the kits supplied. Helpers will guide you through the process and when complete you can take them home. Materials supplied by the Land Trust at Fort Burgoyne. Booking essential, donations welcome. For more details visit www.thelandtrust.org.uk

Sat 15 – Sun 16 Feb

Hornby Half Term Make ‘n’ Paint, Hornby Visitor Centre, Margate, CT9 4JX 11am-2pm. Build and paint an Airfix kit which can then be taken home. A great opportunity to try Airfix at a low cost. Ages 8+. Charges apply. For more information visit www. visitthanet.co.uk

Sat 15 – Sat 22 Feb

Iron Age Week, Folkestone Museum, CT10 1DY 10.30am-12.30pm, 1.303.30pm. What was life like in the Iron Age? There will be various workshops and crafts throughout the week including: 18-19 Feb - learn about Iron Age technology, 20 Feb - make an Iron Age roundhouse, 22 Feb - make Iron Age jewellery. For more details visit www. folkestonemuseum.co.uk

Sat 15 – Sun 23 Feb

February Half Term Activities, Maidstone Leisure Centre, ME15 7RN With lots of activities for children throughout half term why not visit Maidstone Leisure Centre. There’ll be arts and crafts, a roller disco, Superstars Holiday Club, the Aqua Challenge, bouncy castle and more. For more information visit www.maidstoneleisure.com February Half Term Activities, Swale Community Leisure Centres Both Swallows Leisure Centre and Sheppey Leisure Complex are offering a number of activities to keep the children entertained during half term. From swimming and sports activities to arts and crafts, with so much more in-between. For more information visit www. swaleleisure.com February Half Term Trail, Shorne Wood Country Park, Gravesend, DA12 3HX 10am-3pm. Pick up one of the trail sheets and explore the woods following the self-led activity trail. See what you can discover about the woods. All completed trails will receive a small prize. Charges apply. For more information visit www. kent.gov.uk Spring Half Term Fun at the Farm!, Hop Farm, Tonbridge, TN12 6PY 10am-4pm. All the amazing children’s attractions will be open (subject to weather), with fun rides, indoor soft play, driving school, giant jumping pillows and more. Also, on Wed 19 Chase and Marshall from Paw Patrol will be visiting, so get your cameras ready. For more information visit www. thehopfarm.co.uk

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 10...

EAST KENT FEBRUARY 2020.indd 9

28/01/2020 13:46

What’s On

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

February Living with Nature, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Watch the falconry displays and learn about the work of different wildlife charities as well as take part in children’s activities. Follow the nature trail in the grounds, create a ladybug or bumble bee in a free craft workshop. For more information visit www.hevercastle.co.uk Kids for a Quid, Spa Valley Railway, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5QY (Selected dates) Affordable fun for the whole family with kids travelling for just £1. Why not make it an extra special event by booking some food. On Sat 15 have Afternoon Tea on the train, on Thurs 20 enjoy a Fish and Chip lunch on board the train, and on Sat 22 Feb have a Cream Tea on the train. For more information and to book visit www.spavalleyrailway.com Animal Homes Trail, Ightham Mote, nr Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT 10am-4pm. Follow the trail around the gardens to discover which of our native creatures live at Ightham Mote. They may be snoozing until the weather gets a bit warmer, so you’ll need your detective skills to spot them. For more details visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/ighthammote Plant Explorers Trail, Emmetts Garden, Sevenoaks, TN14 6BA Follow the adventures of the famous Victorian plant explorer, Ernest Wilson. Plant hunters journeyed across the globe to find their botanical treasures, hoping to be the first to bring their latest specimens back home. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ emmetts-garden Murder Mystery Trail, Scotney Castle, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 8JN 10am-4pm. Search the rooms and be ready to ask the suspects some questions. Collect the answers to work out who committed the crime and which object from the collection was used, before collecting your prize. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ scotney-castle

3 Feb - 15 Mar ‘20

EAST KENT FEBRUARY 2020.indd 10

Half Term Explorers, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL Throw on your wellies and thinking caps as you venture through the estate on a special trail. With an exciting activity booklet to guide you, complete the various puzzles and challenges to be rewarded with a chocolate prize. Additional charges apply. For more details visit www.leeds-castle.com Mission: Explore, The Historic Dockyard, Chatham, ME4 4TE Round up the troops and get the whole family involved in this fun February Half Term activity. Pick up a trail leaflet on arrival and navigate the site to crack the clues – will you be able to solve the puzzle, decrypt the code and receive a reward? For more information visit https:// thedockyard.co.uk Living with Nature, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Discover more about conservation and local wildlife. Learn about natural and manmade habitats and encourage wildlife into your garden. See falconry displays, follow the nature trail and create a ladybird of bumble bee in a craft workshop. For more information visit www.hevercastle.co.uk

Sun 16 Feb

Hendy Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon, Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, TN4 9TX 9am. Take on this challenging yet rewarding half marathon through the Kent countryside. If you’re not a runner then why not go along and support the people taking part, as spectators are very welcome and permitted around the course. For more information visit www.letsdothis. com

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

”

Birdwatching for Beginners, RSPB Dungeness Nature Reserve, Romney Marsh, TN29 9PN 11am-1pm. Love birds but want to know more about them? Then go on a walk around the reserve with a friendly guide, an expert in all things feathery. Binoculars are available to hire from the visitor centre for a small fee if you don’t have your own. For more information visit www. rspb.org.uk

Mon 17 Feb

Sky Birds of Prey, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend, DA13 9PA 10am, 11.15am, 12.30pm, 2pm. Meet and greet with a selection of birds, talk and take-away bird craft. Session lasts 45 minutes. Charges apply, early booking recommended. For more information and to book visit www.millbrookgc.co.uk

Mon 17 – Wed 19 Feb

Half Term Animation Workshop, Trinity Theatre, Royal Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1JP This three-day course will teach aspiring film makers (ages 9-15) all there is to know about creating a truly innovative and fun film using stop motion animation. For more information visit www.visittunbridgewells. com Half Term Film Club, Glassbox Theatre, MidKent College Campus, ME7 1FN 11am. A different film every day to keep the children entertained during this half term week. Mon 17: Toy Story 4, Tue 18: Aladdin, Wed 19: The Lion King. For more information visit www. glassboxtheatre.com

Mon 17 – Fri 21 Feb

Children’s Week, Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, Hythe Station, TN28 8PL It’s children week on the Railway. Plenty of free activities for all Romney Rover ticket holders. Members of the Bug Club travel free. For more information visit www.rhdr.org.uk

For the Love of Steam, Margate Caves, CT9 1QH Fun for all the family – go along and join in with craft activities based around steam. For more information visit www. margatecaves.co.uk

Tues 18 Feb

Half Term Workshop, Mount Ephraim Gardens, Faversham, ME13 9TX 9.30am-1pm. An alfresco morning workshop where kids can learn how to cook their lunch over fire using delicious fresh food. Think hearty seasonal soups, forages herbs and delicious flatbreads. Ages 4+. Charges apply. For more information visit www. mountephraimgardens.co.uk Exciting Animal Encounters, Shorne Wood Country Park, Gravesend, DA12 3HX 9.30am-3pm. Join the team at the Visitor Centre for a hands-on educational experience. Meet and handle reptiles and rodents including lizards, tortoise and corn snakes. All followed by a self-led trail in the woods. Charges apply. For more information visit www. kent.gov.uk Our Amazing Animal World, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend, DA13 9PA (Also 21 Feb). 10am, 11am, 12noon, 1pm. Meet and greet with a selection of rescued animals, enjoy a talk and get an animal tattoo. Session lasts 45 minutes. Charges apply, early booking recommended. For more information and to book visit www.millbrookgc.co.uk Recycled Hats, Wigmore Library, ME8 0PX 2.30-4pm. Have fun making hats from recycled paper. Ages 3-8. Booking essential. For more information visit www.medway. gov.uk Recycle Wizardry, Chatham Library, ME4 4TX 2.30-3.30pm. Enjoy a story and craft based around the theme of recycling. Ages 4-10. Booking essential. For more information visit www.medway.gov.uk Recycle Revival, Twydall Library, ME8 6JY 2.15-3pm. Enjoy a story and craft based around the theme of recycling. Ages 4-10. Booking essential. For more information visit www.medway.gov.uk

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 12...

February’s Mission Explore activities are running from 15 to 23 February and are included as part of your entry ticket. Pre-booking is advised. Tickets are valid for a year, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the fantastic array of attractions at the fascinating 80-acre estate. For more information and to book, please visit thedockyard.co.uk

Fun Days Out with the Family Mission Explore at the Historic Dockyard Chatham

Become an Explorer at Leeds Castle this Half Term

The Historic Dockyard Chatham has uncovered some important secret intelligence and is looking to recruit some new spies to help them decipher it this February half term. Young spies should report to HQ on arrival to be briefed on their mission. Navigate the Dockyard and uncover the mysterious world of spies and secret agents. Get hands-on with spy craft sessions and, the highlight of any mission, climb aboard HMS Ocelot, a real-life spy submarine. With an indoor and an outdoor trail, the weather will never foil your mission. There are three types of missions available on different days for the spymasters – Secret Messages, Crack the Code and Spy ID Band. If your child does not feel like being an MI5 agent for the day, tag along to one of the Dockyard’s guided tours at no extra cost.

Whatever the Weather

Get your child to become a first-class junior explorer in the grounds of Leeds Castle in Maidstone this half term from 15 to 23 February. Put on your wellies and thinking caps and explore the wonders of the estate on an exciting outdoor adventure trail. For a small additional charge, receive an exciting activity booklet to help guide you through the grounds. Once children complete the various puzzles and challenges, they are rewarded with a chocolate prize. Kids can start their adventure through the Princess Alexandra Gardens before conquering the Maze and completing a quiz in the birds of prey area. On the way through the grounds, encourage your little ones to see if they can solve mystery riddles written on the giant puzzle boards! With admission tickets granting free repeat visits for a year, there is so much to do with your family at Leeds Castle - from exploring the beautiful spring gardens, watching breath-taking falconry displays to discovering the world’s largest dog collar collection and getting lost in the Maze. Entry tickets start from £17.50 and advance discounts are available online. For more information or to book online, please visit www.leeds-castle.com

MISSION: EXPLORE Become the ultimate spy this half term

15-23 RY FEBRUA

Board a real spy submarine Complete spy missions

15th to 23rd February

Make your own spy kit

Become a junior outdoor explorer this half term and follow your challenge booklet around the grounds to hunt for clues, solve challenges and be rewarded with a chocolate prize at the end.

All included in your ticket

Book online to save

thedockyard.co.uk Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

leeds-castle.com

3 Feb - 15 Mar ‘20 29657 LC Half Term Explorers PT 135x90mm V2.indd 1

EAST KENT FEBRUARY 2020.indd 11

11 15/01/2020 10:18 28/01/2020 13:47

What’s On

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

February Junk to Jewellery, Hoo Library, ME3 9AL 2.15-3.15pm. Have a go at this craft-based session, turning junk into beautiful jewellery. Ages 4-10. Booking essential. For more information visit www.medway. gov.uk Waste Not, Want Not, Strood Library, ME2 4TJ 2-3pm. Enjoy a story and craft based around the theme of recycling. Ages 4-10. Booking essential. For more information visit www.medway.gov.uk

Tues 18 – Thurs 20 Feb

Gargoyle Week, Canterbury Cathedral, CT1 2EH 11am-3pm. For this year’s Gargoyle Week explore the medieval tiles with the Canterbury Archaeological Trust, then create your own Gregory Gargoyle tile to take home with you. Free activity, normal admission charges apply. For more information visit www. canterbury-cathedral.org

Tues 18 – Fri 21 Feb

Half Term Family Fun: Rat Race, Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham, ME7 1UR 11am-3pm. The Museum collections link to rats in many unexpected ways. In WWI soldiers were living in trenches among the rats, some the size of cats. Ring in the Year of the Rat by making a rat puppet for some rat-inspired play. Charges apply. For more details visit www.remuseum.co.uk Half Term Make It! Workshops, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH 10.30am, 12noon, 1.30pm, 3pm. Tues: make 2 friendship bracelets, one for you and one for a friend. Wed: print a repeating pattern

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. 12

3 Feb - 15 Mar ‘20

EAST KENT FEBRUARY 2020.indd 12

“

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

”

to make a wall hanging. Thurs: create a sock-based character. Fri: create ‘no sew’ fabric bunting. For more details visit www. museum.maidstone.gov.uk

Wed 19 Feb

Family Film Fun, Revelation, St Mary the Virgin, Ashford, TN23 1QG A double bill of Disney classics with a doggy flavour. 1-2.30pm 101 Dalmatians, 3-5pm Lady & The Tramp. Charges apply. For more information visit www. revelationashford.co.uk Badge Up with Nikki Tompsett, Quarterhouse, Folkestone, CT20 1BN 11am-3pm. Use words or pictures to celebrate who you are, your ideas and beliefs. Design and make badges that can be little wearable artworks, symbolizing things you love and support. Show the world what you think. Free, drop-in. For more information visit www. creativefolkestone.org.uk Hedgehog Make-and-Take Workshops, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend, DA13 9PA 10am, 12noon, 2pm. Get creative at these hedgehog themed craft workshops. Session lasts 60 minutes and includes refreshments/biscuit. Charges apply, early booking recommended. For more information and to book visit www.millbrookgc.co.uk What a Load of Rubbish, Hempstead Library, ME7 3QG 2.30-3.30pm. Join in with this craft session based around the theme of recycling. Ages 4-10. Booking essential. For more information visit www.medway. gov.uk

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

Half Term Family Fun at Royal Engineers Museum

Spring has sprung at the Royal Engineers Museum in Gillingham. From Tuesday 18 to Friday 21 February celebrate Chinese New Year and learn about trench rats the size of cats as kids get creative and make their own rat hand puppet to take home. To commemorate 80 years of Bomb Disposal work, families can join serving soldiers and the Royal Engineers Association on Saturday 7 March. Test out your own mine detecting skills with real kit and watch live search dog demonstrations. From Thursday 19 to Saturday 21 March, visitors can meet, learn and game with The Sappers ESports Gaming team who are the British Army’s first ESports club.You’ll get to play titles such as World of Tanks in the impressive home of the Royal Engineers surrounded by some of their most important armoured vehicles, equipment and historic artefacts. Half term activities run from 11am to 3pm each day and cost £2.50 in addition to standard admission prices. A 50p discount is available with Museum Friends’ membership or Snob the Dog loyalty card. All other events are included in standard ticket prices. For further information, please visit www.re-museum.co.uk.

CSI at Folkestone Museum

British Science Week has arrived at Folkestone Museum. Children will be able to engage with archaeologists and conservators who will show them how to examine collections in a practical hands-on way and discover how science can reveal important stories from the distant past, as well as preserve rare and fragile artefacts for future generations. For one week only, the museum will be seeking to further investigate the stories from the collection within the museum. Aefre the skeleton was one of 40 Anglo-Saxons from a 6th to 7th century cemetery on Dover Hill that was discovered during road widening in 1906. Another story waiting to be uncovered is that of St Eanswythe, an Anglo-Saxon princess from Kent. A lead casket containing bones was discovered in the wall of St Mary and St Eanswythe’s Church. Forensic examination of the casket and bones is taking place. Could they possibly be hers, and if not, who might they belong to? Go along to discover the latest scientific evidence. British Science Week will run at Folkestone Museum from 7 to 14 March. Other activities at the museum include Be a Roman Legionary on 8 February and Iron Age Week from 15 to 22 February. All the CSI events are free, family-friendly and suitable for all ages. For details of school and group visits please email museum@folkestonetc.gov.uk or call 01303 257 946. For more information, visit www. folkestonemuseum.co.uk.

Relive the Story of Britain’s Best Loved Toys

Go along to the Hornby Visitor Centre this half term. It will be a great bit of half term fun and your children (and you?) can make and then paint an Airfix kit for just £2 on 15 and 16 February. The Hornby Visitor Centre is a fantastic day out for the whole family. Go and see all the fascinating displays, featuring rare products from the Hornby, Scalextric, Airfix and Corgi archives. Track the history of Hornby’s iconic model trains from Frank Hornby’s early home-made toys in sheet metal through to the development

Whatever the Weather

of Hornby ‘O’ gauge and HornbyDublo. Trace the development of Scalextric, the legendary slot car racing system, from its launch in the 1950s through to the latest detailed models. Follow the history of Airfix from the introduction of the 1949 Ferguson TE20 tractor kit through to the brand’s latest releases. Learn how Airfix models are made and see over 80 years of history, from the Mettoy tinplate toys of the 1930s to the high quality Corgi collectables of today. You’ll be able to see all the spectacular train layouts and then treat yourself to something in the retail shop and café. For more information, visit www.hornby.com.

In aid of The Lord Whisky Sanctuary Fund Registered Charity: 283483

Fur, Feather and Exotic Exhibition 22 February - 10am-4pm

Boughton-under Blean Village Hall, Bull Lane, ME13 9AH Lot of different animals including chinchillas, ferrets, owls and more! Feed the sock lambs. Small Animal Pet Show (no dogs or cats)to be judged at 3pm by Pam Ferris Information and craft stalls - Tombola - Refreshments New Animal Exhibitors Welcome. Craft stalls £10. Phone 01303 862622 to book. Park House Animal Sanctuary Stelling Minnis, Kent, CT4 6AN

www.lordwhisky.co.uk • 01303 862622

CSI: Folkestone - Investigating Aefre, St Eanswythe & Other Stories 7 -14 March (closed Sun 8 March) Discover what science has revealed about the museum skeleton, objects and the relics of Folkestone’s Anglo-Saxon saint. • • • • • •

Discover the stories of Aefre our Anglo-Saxon skeleton and St Eanswythe Meet archaeologists and conservators Find out what scientific analyses have revealed Investigate finds under the microscope Handle artefacts and try on costume Have a go at ancient crafts

Check out our individual events for times and bookings on our Facebook page or visit www.folkestonemuseum.co.uk . All the CSI events are free, family-friendly and suitable for all ages. For details of school and group visits please contact Folkestone Museum by email museum@folkestone-tc.gov.uk or tel. 01303 257946 Folkestone Museum, The Town Hall, 1-2 Guildhall Street, Folkestone, CT20 1DY

Image: Shorncliffe Military Cemetary, courtesy of Andy Smith

EAST KENT FEBRUARY 2020.indd 13

3 Feb - 15 Mar ‘20

28/01/2020 13:47

What’s On

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

February Castle Junk Modelling, Walderslade Hook Meadow Library, ME5 0TZ 2.15-3.15pm. Join in with this story and craft session. Ages 4-10. Booking essential. For more information visit www.medway. gov.uk Don’t Throw It – Bling It, Rochester Library, Eastgate, ME1 1EW 2.15-3.15pm. Give old objects a new lease of life with some sparkle. Ages 4-10. Booking essential. For more information visit www.medway.gov.uk

Wed 19 – Thurs 20 Feb

Children’s Windchime Workshop, Knole, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP 10.30am-12noon. Design your own set of windchimes using paints, ribbons, beads and feathers. Ages 5-11. For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/knole

Thurs 20 Feb

Monster Plants Make and Take Workshops, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend, DA13 9PA 10am, 12noon, 2pm. Learn all about awesome carnivorous plants. Decorate a pot and choose from a selection of ‘monster plants’ to take home. Session lasts 1 hour and includes refreshments/biscuit. Charges apply, early booking recommended. For details and to book visit www.millbrookgc. co.uk Fun Feeding the Birds, Lordswood Library, ME5 8TH 11-11.45am. Enjoy a story and craft at the library. Ages 4-10. Booking essential. For more information visit www.medway. gov.uk Recycled Robots, Walderslade Village Library, ME5 9LR 2.15-3pm. Enjoy a fun afternoon of story and craft. Ages 4-10. For more information visit www. medway.gov.uk

Thurs 20 – Fri 21 Feb

Felt Making, Huguenot Museum, Rochester, ME1 1LX 10.30am-3.30pm. The Huguenots created felt from wool for many different purposes. Create your 14

3 Feb - 15 Mar ‘20

EAST KENT FEBRUARY 2020.indd 14

own felt from scratch using a range of different wools. Layer each strand and build a picture of your own to take home. Drop-in session, charges apply. For more details visit www. huguenotmuseum.org

Thurs 20 – Sun 23 Feb

Faversham Literary Festival, The Alexander Centre, Faversham, ME13 8NZ The Literary Festival will be taking over the Centre to run various events. On Sat 22 Michael Rosen will be reading some of his funniest poems and asking what it means to play with a Dickens plot as he did in ‘Bah! Humbug!’. For more details and to book visit www. thealexandercentre.com

Fri 21 Feb

Nature Explorers, Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve, Bradbourne Vale, TN13 3DH 12.30-2.30pm. An opportunity for families to have fun together whilst exploring the woodland reserve and get stuck into a variety of bushcraft and arty activities based on Forest School. Charges apply, booking essential. Ages 2-8. For more details and to book visit www.kentwildlifetrust. org.uk Nature Explorers, Denstead Wood, Chartham Hatch, CT4 7NT 10am-12noon. An opportunity for families to have fun together whilst exploring the woodland reserve and get stuck into a variety of bushcraft and arty activities based on Forest School. Charges apply, booking essential. Ages 2-8. For more details and to book visit www.kentwildlifetrust. 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

”

Cardboard Carnival & Puppet Making Workshop, Woodville Theatre, Gravesend, DA12 1DD Dissected for body part potential to create the ‘ultimate animal’, take inspiration from SaintsSaens’s music, with a little help from Darwin and a whole lot of cardboard. For more information visit www.woodville.co.uk Reuse and Recycle, Rainham Library, ME8 7LR 2.15-3pm. A fun afternoon story and craft based around the theme of recycling. Ages 4-10. Booking essential. For more information visit www.medway. gov.uk

Fri 21 – Sun 23 Feb

Play Expo Margate, Winter Gardens, CT9 1HX 11am. A celebration of gaming packed with playable arcades, consoles and computers along with a whole host of other related features. More gaming mayhem than Margate has ever seen before. For more information visit www. playexpomargate.com

Sat 22 Feb

Meet Catboy, The Entertainer, Bluewater Shopping Centre, Greenhithe, DA9 9ST Enjoy a fantastic opportunity to meet Catboy from PJ Masks in store. For more information contact the store directly on 08446 931 469. We Insist! With Sam Ayre, Quarterhouse, Folkestone, CT20 1BN 11am-3pm. Make ‘wearable’ placards, signs, banners, clothing and accessories that proclaim your opinions publicly in answer to the question ‘What would you do to improve the world?’. Free, drop-in. For more information visit www.creativefolkestone. org.uk Junky Funky Jewels, Lordswood Library, ME5 8TH 2-3pm. Create badges and wristbands from junk. Ages 4-10. Booking essential. For more information visit www.medway. gov.uk

Fur, Feather & Exotic Exhibition, Boughton-underBlean Village Hall, ME13 9AH 10am-4pm. A fundraising event for The Lord Whisky Sanctuary Fund with animals including chinchillas, ferrets, owls and more. Small Animal Pet Show (no dogs or cats) to be judged at 3pm by Pam Ferris. Craft stalls, tombola and refreshments. For more details visit www.lordwhisky.co.uk

Tues 25 Feb

Westgate Pancake Race, Station Road, Westgate on Sea, CT8 8RB The annual Pancake Races have been run since the 1950s, and this year will see a return to that part of history as people will be running in traditional 1950s dress. There will be races for all ages and prize giving ceremonies for all categories. For more information visit www.visitthanet.co.uk

Fri 28 Feb

Astronomy Viewing Session, Monkton Nature Reserve, nr Ramsgate, CT12 4LH Lead by the Monkton Stargazers, viewing sessions start approximately one hour after sunset. Whilst viewing is weather dependent, the astronomers will often put on an indoor event if the conditions are overcast. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www.monkton-reserve.org

March Sun 1 Mar

Viva Vintage, Artisan Craft & Gift Fair, Alexander Centre, Faversham, ME13 8NZ 10am-3pm. A fabulous Sunday fair showcasing the best of Kent’s vintage and retro sellers, artisan crafts and gift stalls. Free entry. For more information visit www.thealexandercentre. com Handmade Fair, Gravesend Borough Market, DA11 0AZ 10am-3pm. Dozens of local crafters under one roof, exhibiting an eclectic mix of hand-crafted wares and taste bud tempting treats. For more information visit www. visitgravesend.co.uk

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

many children’s lives in Croydon and I’m looking forward to bringing our creative ethos to Kent” Canterbury College principle, Lucy McLeod, told Primary Times, “The creative arts are a large part of our curriculum and we have fantastic facilities. Working with BRIT Kids, we can now put them to good use at the weekends too.”

BRIT Kids Come to Canterbury

BRIT Kids are so excited to be coming to Kent, in partnership with, and hosted by, Canterbury College. BRIT Kids is part of The BRIT School, a unique free school for the performing and creative arts in Croydon. BRIT Kids has been running for 18 years in Croydon and now has over 800 students who attend each weekend. Class content is free thinking, expressive and challenging for the students. It is this experience and expertise they will be bringing to Canterbury. BRIT Kids is rooted in education and offers children the opportunity to explore the creative and performing arts through a safe, welcoming and fun environment. It is through this energy and creativity that the children find a way to build confidence, make new friends and gain a feeling that they belong to something really rather special. A BRIT Kids parent told Primary Times, “It takes something special to get teenagers out of bed on a Saturday morning - and BRIT Kids is that special.” BRIT Kids national lead, Tobi Deeson, is thrilled to be coming to Canterbury College. She said “I have seen BRIT Kids transform so

in partnership with

A Fresh Take on Swimming Lessons

Angela Wilson swam competitively for Team GB and firmly believes we all learn best when engaged and enjoying ourselves. Her insight and winning techniques have been developed over 25 years and have made Angela’s Swim School a major provider of lessons in the South East, with pools nearby in Whitstable. Angela told Primary Times, “My dream is to see all children being taught to swim properly, for them to be happy as they learn water skills and safety, grow in confidence and enjoy a physical workout.” To help children get the most from their ‘learn to swim’ journey, Angela has found a fresh way to engage them and has developed a badge programme. Angela’s Swim School, in partnership with The Swimstylers, offers a staged approach to teaching skills and stamina suitable for babies and non-swimmers, ultimately up to a 1500m swim. The Swimstylers programme and badge levels are brought to life by inspirational child characters. The stages within Caspian, Oceana and others show beginner and more accomplished swimmers step by step how to progress with confidence and technique. To become a Swimstyler and join Angela’s Swim School visit www.

Out of School Activities

angelasswimschool.co.uk.

Learn to swim! TERMLY LESSONS: All ages & abilities from 4 months Fully qualified instructors Small class sizes We get results !

BOOK NOW GET £10 OFF QUOTE: PTHT2020

BRIT Kids

Saturday Courses at Canterbury College What do we do? …more than you can imagine! Find out more and sign up: britkids.org/canterbury Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent EAST KENT FEBRUARY 2020.indd 15

07793 490609 eastkent@angelasswimschool.co.uk www.angelasswimschool.co.uk 3 Feb - 15 Mar ‘20

28/01/2020 13:47

journey towards Artsmark will allow the school to further develop its arts and cultural education. Music is for all at Spring Grove, with community singing, informal concerts, an orchestra, a ceilidh band and full-scale musical productions. This year the children will perform an opera, Noye’s Fludde, in Wye Church in April. Added to this mix are an energetic and creative art department, gallery and theatre visits, art competitions, French drama club, and the extension of art into the natural world through the school’s award-winning Forest School programme. Importantly, Artsmark also allows Spring Grove to further its school vision of developing pupils ‘who believe in their abilities, who become independent learners and who strive to make a difference in the everchanging 21st century.’ Go along to the Spring Grove School open morning on Saturday 29 February between 9.30am and12noon.Visit www.springgroveschool. co.uk for more information.

Education News

Artsmark Journey for Spring Grove

Spring Grove School is delighted to have been accepted into the Artsmark community - the start of a two-year journey to full accreditation. The prestigious Artsmark is a quality standard for schools, awarded by Arts Council England, with the aim of ‘inspiring young people through arts and culture’. Spring Grove is already well known for its excellent music, art and drama provision, and the

St Edmund’s Nursery & Pre-Prep

At St Edmund’s Nursery & Pre-Prep, children are inspired to love learning, be creative in everything they do and be considerate to others. The school is ambitious for their pupils, and provides a kind, caring and supportive environment in which the pupils’ conﬁdence can grow and their talents thrive. Learning is dynamic, varied and fun, with children encouraged to be active in lessons by responding to and solving problems. In Pre-Prep, teaching follows, though is not limited to, the Early Years Foundation Stage and the National Curriculum. English and mathematics

‘A great place to grow’ for children aged 2 to 11 years

Open Morning · Saturday 29 February 2020 Doors open 9.30am - last tours leave around 11.30am

Scholarships available for September 2020

Nursery - Year 2 all year round 7.30 -6pm www.stedmunds.org.uk 01227 475601

call 01233 812337 / email admissions@springgroveschool.co.uk

www.springgroveschool.co.uk · Wye, near Ashford, Kent 16

3 Feb - 15 Mar ‘20

EAST KENT FEBRUARY 2020.indd 16

StEdsCanterbury Follow us on Instagram - @primarytimesse 28/01/2020 13:47

Disney’s The Lion King Launches New Video Library

Disney’s The Lion King has launched a brand new video library to accompany its educational programme. Ten short ﬁlms have been made in order to help pupils prepare for their theatre experience, as well as deepen their knowledge and understanding of the processes involved in theatre making. Since the 1999 UK premiere in London, The Lion King has entertained over 16 million theatregoers and remains the West End’s best-selling stage production and sixth longest-running West End musical of all time. Over one million pupils have already experienced Disney’s landmark musical through its award-winning education programme. Developed by teachers, the programme is fully curriculum-linked to support subjects in Key Stages 2 – 4 and is easily adaptable. In addition to the new video library, the educational programme

also includes lesson plans that can inspire cross-curricular learning in English, art and design, music and PSHE and citizenship. The Circle of Life Award empowers students to create their own social action project to beneﬁt their community, and workshops (available to groups who have booked to attend a performance of The Lion King) give students the rare opportunity to explore the world of the production and learn content from the show. To explore a range of lesson plans, behind the scenes videos, a citizenship award programme, workshops and more, please visit www. lionkingeducation.co.uk. Photo credit: ®Disney

2020 British Science Week Activity Packs are Live!

Education News

are timetabled daily to ensure continuity of progress and a topicbased approach to covering other areas of the curriculum. Reading is of prime importance and children also receive specialist teaching in French, music, PE, swimming and dance. The Head of Pre-Prep, Julia Exley, is incredibly proud of the school, telling Primary Times, “We have high standards for each child and work hard to see them achieved. This is no hothouse, however. We seek continuous improvement rather than instant perfection, and we believe that enjoyment, stimulation and the right environment are key to this.” If you would like further information, contact admissions@ stedmunds.org.uk or call 01227 475 601.

The 2020 British Science Week activity packs are now live and available to download. This year’s theme is centred on our diverse planet, with different ways to celebrate the world’s amazing ecological, cultural and societal diversity. There are activities that focus on the diversity of knowledge, through to STEM careers and subjects. The packs have been designed to make incorporating British Science Week into your school activities as smooth and seamless as possible. All of the packs contain a wealth of activities as well as the ever-popular poster competition. The activity packs have a variety of themes that are centred on diversity. Also included are ways for British Science Week to take place at home and outside of the classroom to ensure the magic of science remains well after the week. All of this year’s packs can be found at www.britishscienceweek.org/. You can share your ideas and photos on Twitter using the hashtag #BSW20.

d u M , h t r i M and Magic... Places available for children aged 3+ Weekly Forest School sessions in our dedicated Discovery Garden. Phonics and numeracy taught from age 3. Weekly PE and Sport, Music and Languages. Funded places for Children age 3 and 4 from eligible families.

OPEN DAY - SATURDAY 14th MARCH To find out more T: 01304 244535 or E: admissions@dovercollege.org.uk

THINK DIFFERENTLY. THINK DOVER COLLEGE.

EAST KENT FEBRUARY 2020.indd 17

3 Feb - 15 Mar ‘20

28/01/2020 13:47

Education News

More What’s On Shakespeare Week 2020 Your family diary for February and March

March Bird Ringing for Visitors, RSPB Northward Hill, ME3 8DS Go along to a public ringing demonstration led by a qualified ringer and long-standing RSPB volunteer. See the birds up close as they are examined, measured and weighed. Learn about their migration patterns and help release them back into the wild. For more details visit www.rspb. org.uk

Thurs 5 Mar

World Book Day With a mission to offer every child and young person the opportunity to read and love books, World Book Day is marked in over 100 countries. Book-related activities take place in schools and children receive a World Book Day token to choose a free book from this year’s list. For more details visit www.worldbookday.com

Sat 7 Mar

Artisan Craft Vintage & Gift Fairs, Alexander Centre, Faversham, ME13 8NZ (Also 21 Mar). 10am-3pm. A dogfriendly free event showcasing the best of Kent’s crafts, artists, vintage and gift sellers. For more information visit www. thealexandercentre.com Woodsman Walk, Sissinghurst Castle, nr Cranbrook, TN17 2AB 9.30am-1pm. See the woodlands as never before with an interactive walk with the ranger. The tour will include some hands-on activities so take along sturdy footwear and gardening apparel. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ sissinghurst-castle

“

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

”

Be a Graphic Designer for the Day with Rob McDonald, Quarterhouse, Folkestone, CT20 1BN 11am-3pm. Design your own poster promoting Folkestone using a variety of processes, media and materials such as Silkscreen, collage, stencils and projection to play with type, shapes and images to generate your unique posters. Free, dropin. For more details visit www. creativefolkestone.org.uk

Sat 7 – Sun 8 Mar

World Book Day Fun, Scotney Castle, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 8JN Why not go dressed as your favourite book character? Enjoy the puffin hide and seek trail or test your beastie knowledge with an animal facts quiz (collect your trail sheet at reception). Why not pop into Betsy’s secondhand book shop too. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ scotney-castle

Sat 7 – Sat 14 Mar

CSI: Folkestone, Folkestone Museum, CT10 1DY (Except Sun). 10am-4pm. British Science Week arrives at Folkestone Museum. Children can engage with archaeologists and conservators to learn how to examine collections in a practical hands-on way. For more information visit www. folkestonemuseum.co.uk

Sun 8 Mar 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.

3 Feb - 15 Mar ‘20

EAST KENT FEBRUARY 2020.indd 18

Heart of Kent Hospice Maidstone Road Run, Cornwallis Academy, ME17 4HX This year includes an Elmerthemed 1k Family Fun Race alongside the traditional half marathon, 10k and 5k runs. Why not take your whole family,

From 16-22 March, more than two million children and their families will be getting creative as part of an exciting art and design-themed programme for Shakespeare Week - the annual national celebration of Shakespeare in primary schools run by independent charity, the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust. The Trust is working with some of the country’s bestloved artists to develop free resources and activities that will enthuse and inspire children to get creative with Shakespeare, including children’s TV presenter Ricky Martin from CBBC’s Art Ninja, Korky Paul, illustrator of the popular Winnie the Witch series, award-winning author and illustrator, Marcia Williams, and Waterstones Children’s Laureate, Cressida Cowell. Families can also celebrate Shakespeare Week. Throughout the week, there will be a number of free events in libraries and cultural organisations across the country. Since its launch in 2014, over 8.8 million children have taken part in Shakespeare Week, which provides teachers and home educators with free tools to take Shakespeare into their classrooms, across every subject in the curriculum. For more information and to register for free, see www.shakespeareweek. org.uk. Join the conversation on social media @ShakespeareWeek, #ShakespeareWeek. Photo credit:Valerie Thomas and Korky Paul (OUP)

WOW Badge Design Competition Open

A national charity is on the hunt for the UK’s best young designers as they launch their WOW badge design competition. Living Streets, the UK charity behind the Walk to School campaign, is asking primary school aged children to design the 11 badges to be used in WOW – their yearround Walk to School challenge. WOW rewards pupils who walk to school at least once a week with a different collectable WOW badge each month, designed by pupils in this nationwide competition. Over 2,000 schools across the UK take part in WOW, which means winning designs will be turned into more than 400,000 badges for pupils to collect. The badges are made in the UK from repurposed plastic materials, including old fridge trays, plastic plates and offcuts of yoghurt pot material. As well as the prestigious accolade of seeing their designs worn by pupils across the UK, winning designers will also receive prizes for themselves and their school, including a year’s supply of WOW resources. An additional 11 highly commended designers will receive runners-up trophies. This year’s theme is Wonders of the World, with entrants being asked for colourful depictions of natural or human-made creations. The competition closes on Friday 6 March. For more information and to download entry forms, please visit www.livingstreets.org.uk.

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 22... Follow us on Instagram - @primarytimesse 28/01/2020 13:47

The National Theatre Collection has been made available free of charge to state schools and state-funded further education colleges across the UK in partnership with Bloomsbury Publishing. The collection provides high-quality recordings of 24 world-class productions, drawing from 10 years of NT Live broadcasts and never before released productions from the National Theatre’s Archive. Schools and further education colleges can register now via Bloomsbury Publishing’s award-winning digital library Drama Online. Celebrating the best of contemporary British theatre, the titles will support learning across the primary and secondary curriculum. Titles in the collection include Shakespeare set texts including Macbeth, Othello, Twelfth Night and King Lear. Novels brought to life include Frankenstein, Treasure Island, Peter Pan and Jane Eyre. Adaptations of Romeo and Juliet and The Winter’s Tale created specially for younger audiences and suitable for primary schools are also available. Recordings are accompanied by learning resources to explore the craft behind the best of British theatre including rehearsal insights and short videos. The Collection will increase to 30 titles by March and further resources exploring backstage aspects such as lighting, sound and staging will be added later in the year. The easy-to-use platform includes helpful features such as scene-by-scene selections and synopses, theme and key word searches. Teachers can sign up now to National Theatre Collection on Bloomsbury’s Drama Online Platform via www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/ ntcollection Photo credit: Steve Tanner

LEEDS CASTLE’S

Education News

National Theatre Collection Free for State Schools

BIG Story Writing Challenge

Children aged 5 - 13 years are invited to take part in Leeds Castle’s BIG Story Writing Challenge by writing an original, fictional story of no more than 900 words. Let your imagination run wild with this year’s theme ‘One Golden Day’ and win fantastic prizes!

With W i t h l e a d j u d g e C l a r e B a l d i ng

Entry deadline: 6th March Leeds-Castle.com/storywriting In partnership with...

BSW q-page ad.indd 1

22/01/2020 12:23:16

The No.1 for exam success Essential practice for 11+ and Common Entrance exams

A comprehensive range of resources for children aged 5–13

www.bond11plus.co.uk Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent EAST KENT FEBRUARY 2020.indd 19

3 Feb - 15 Mar ‘20

28/01/2020 13:47

On Your Marks, Get Set… It’s nearly time for Sport Relief! Phoebe Lill, Schools Fundraising Manager for Sport Relief, suggests ten top tips to help schools and families warm up for the event. Sport Relief – which is coming up from 9–13 March – is a unique opportunity for children to get active, have fun, raise money and change lives. We’re very aware of all the hard work that goes on behind the scenes for an event like Sport Relief. Whether you’re a parent baking into the wee small hours or a teacher shepherding 30 reception children around the Sport Relief Mile, we’re hugely grateful for your efforts. Please rest assured that every penny you raise this March will be used to change countless lives, both here in the UK and worldwide. Sport Relief money funds amazing organisations that are tackling some of the most pressing issues of our time, including homelessness, mental health stigma and domestic abuse. The bonus is that taking part in Sport Relief is a great experience for children. It’s an exciting, memorable day when everyone comes together to make a difference through the power of sport. As well as being great fun, it’s a fantastic opportunity to develop children’s empathy and help them understand that they have the potential to take action and change things for the better.

To Kick Things Off…

You’ll ﬁnd everything you need at sportrelief.com/schools/primary. Whether you’re a teacher, parent or pupil, get online and start exploring all the exciting resources on offer!

Top Ten Tips for Sport Relief Success

Keen to take part? Here are our top ten tips to make sure your children’s Sport Relief goes with a bang! 1. Get the date on the calendar. This year the Sport Relief fun and games are set to begin on Monday 9 March, culminating on Friday 13 March with TV programmes on CBBC and the live telethon in the evening. 2.

EAST KENT FEBRUARY 2020.indd 20 Sport Relief FP.indd 1

Make sure children understand why they’re raising money for Sport Relief. There’s a short ﬁlm on the Sport Relief website about Cameron, a boy who experienced homelessness and now campaigns to help other children. Talk together about Cameron’s story – check out the learning poster and activities for more information and ideas. Explain that the money you raise for Sport Relief will be used to help people worldwide and in your own community.

3. Look out for Sport Relief wristbands on sale. Just £1 to buy, there’s no simpler (and cooler!) way for children to show their support and kick-start fundraising. If you’re a teacher, why not sell wristbands in school? With our special offer, you can pay a deposit of £6.50 for a box of 20, then settle up later. (order from: www.sportrelief.com/ wristbands) 4. If your school is organising a Sport Relief healthy snack sale, start preparing tasty treats with the children. You’ll find a range of savoury and sweet recipes on the Sport Relief website – all easy to make and good for you. 5. Children across the country will be making a donation to dress up as their sporting hero or wear sports kit on Friday 13th. To save a last-minute panic on the day, start planning outfits in advance and prepare to accessorise with face paint, wigs, deely boppers, ribbons, cheerleading pom poms, medals… 6. Get creative with the children – there are lots of ideas and templates for things to make on the Sport Relief website. You could make bunting and flags to decorate your home or the classroom and corridors. Or how about using our template for a trainer-shaped money box to add excitement to collecting sponsorship money? 7. This year’s official Sport Relief school song is a catchy number called It’s Game On! Why not learn it with the children, singing along to the video on the Sport Relief website? If you want to take your music-making really seriously, you can download the lyrics and sheet music. You’ll even find a Makaton translation to get the children communicating through sign and song. 8. The Sport Relief Mile is the perfect excuse for everyone to get in shape together. If your school is planning to run the Mile this year, get your running shoes on and organise training sessions with the children in the run-up to the big event. 9. Help out on the day. If you’re a parent, find out what your school is going to do for Sport Relief and offer your support. Could you help to supervise the Sport Relief mile? Could you organise a healthy snack sale? Or just shake a bucket at the school gate? 10. At the end of Friday 13th, sit down with friends and family to watch a massive night of entertainment live on the BBC, knowing that together you’ve played an active part in changing people’s lives for the better. We hope the ideas here have inspired you to join in from 9–13 March and get set now to go, go, go! Have fun and a massive thank you for all your support. We’re excited to have you on the Sport Relief team.

28/01/2020 13:47 27/01/2020 12:05

0 12:05

Win a Maleficent: Mistress of Evil DVD In Disney’s sequel to the 2014 global box office hit, Maleficent and her goddaughter Aurora begin to question the complex family ties that bind them as they are pulled in different directions by impending nuptials, unexpected allies and dark new forces at play. The years have been kind to Maleficent and Aurora. Their relationship, born of heartbreak, revenge and, ultimately, love, has flourished. Yet the hatred between man and the fairies still exists. When an unexpected encounter introduces a powerful new alliance, Maleficent and Aurora are pulled apart to opposing sides in a great war, testing their loyalties and causing them to question whether they can truly be family. Maleficent: Mistress of Evil is available on DVD from 17 February. Primary Times have five Maleficent DVDs to give away to five lucky readers. For your chance to win, simply tell us the name of Maleficent’s goddaughter. For details of how to enter, please see the bottom of this page.

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.

Competitions

Competitions Win an Asterix DVD and Book Bundle Asterix: The Secret of the Magic Potion is the newest film in the Asterix series and is available on Digital and DVD now. Asterix and Obelix embark on a quest across Gaul looking for a young druid worthy of learning the secret of the magic potion – a formula which has long helped to keep the Gaulish village safe against Julius Caesar and his invading army. However, once Asterix and Obelix begin their quest, all hell breaks loose at home as the Romans start attacking the village and an evil wizard named Demonix does everything he can to steal the potion’s secret recipe. For your chance to win a copy of Asterix: The Secret of the Magic Potion on DVD and the latest book in the book series (Asterix and the Chieftain’s Daughter), simply tell us the name of the evil wizard. For details of how to enter, please see the bottom of this page.

Win ‘The Boy with the Saucepan Hat’ Book There’s really only one word to describe The Boy with the Saucepan Hat by Martyn Harvey and that’s ‘FUN’. When Oliver Todd wakes up with a saucepan stuck on his head, he is obviously a bit cheesed off. But when he gets to the hospital Emergency Room, things go from bad to worse. The book is written in charming rhyming couplets and is really funny. Younger children will enjoy having it read to them while older ones will have a lovely time reading it for themselves. They’ll have to prise it away from their mums and dads first though! The Boy with the Saucepan Hat is available online and in High Street bookshops for £5.99. We have four copies of The Boy with the Saucepan Hat to give away to Primary Times readers. For your chance to win one tell us what Oliver gets stuck on his head. For details of how to enter, please see the bottom of this page.

To enter any of the competitions send your answer along with your name, age, school, address and phone number to Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London, SE12 8LG. Don’t forget to include the name of the competition. Alternatively email your answer and details to

competitions@primarytimes.biz with the competition name as the subject by Friday 28 February 2020. If you are entering more than one competition you can put all entries in the same envelope.

3 Feb - 15 Mar ‘20

21 28/01/2020 13:47

What’s On

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

March dress in colourful clothes, or go dressed as Elmer. A great way to help raise money for the local hospice. For more information visit www.hokh.org

Fri 13 Mar

Pilgrim’s Hospice Firewalk, The Pavilion, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7SR From 6pm. It’s time to turn up the heat for the ‘hottest, shortest sponsored walk in the world’. The Pilgrim’s firewalk is a barefoot walk over red-hot embers measuring up to 800 degrees. It’s the ultimate test of courage. For more information visit www.pilgrimshospices.org Sport Relief, Nationwide Whether you walk, dance, swim, floss or round up your mates for a match, order your free fundraising pack, have fun and help to make a real difference. It’s Game On. For more information visit www.sportrelief.com

Sat 14 Mar

Pilgrim’s Hospice Firewalk, Pilgrim’s Hospice, Ashford, TN24 0NE From 5.30pm. It’s time to turn up the heat for the ‘hottest, shortest sponsored walk in the world’. The Pilgrim’s firewalk is a barefoot walk over red-hot embers measuring up to 800 degrees. It’s the ultimate test of courage. For more information visit www.pilgrimshospices.org

Sun 15 Mar

NGS Garden Open Day, Godinton House and Gardens, Ashford, TN23 3BP 1-5pm. Supporting the work of the National Gardens Scheme. The Tea Room will be open as well as the Gardens, but the House will be closed. For more information visit www. godintonhouse.co.uk The Holiday and Leisure Show, Kent Showground, Maidstone ME14 3JF The show is designed to appeal to everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, and features everything from days out to holidays both in the UK and abroad. For more information visit www. theholidayandleisureshow.co.uk 22

3 Feb - 15 Mar ‘20

EAST KENT FEBRUARY 2020.indd 22

Mon 16 – Sun 22 Mar

Dazzling Daffodils, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Be dazzled by the bright sight of thousands of daffodils and find out more about the cheery spring bloom at this event with free garden tours. For more information visit www. hevercastle.co.uk

Thurs 19 – Sat 21 Mar

ESports Club, Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham, ME7 1UR Meet, learn and game with The Sappers ESports Gaming team, who are the British Army’s first ESports club. Play titles such as World of Tanks surrounded by armoured vehicles, equipment and historic artefacts. For more information visit www.remuseum.co.uk

Sat 21 Mar

Fire Walk, Princes Park Stadium, Dartford, DA1 1RT 4-8pm. A challenge to walk on hot coals at 550oC and raise funds for We Are Beams, a local award-winning charity supporting disabled children and their families. No experience necessary, briefing at 4pm, walk starts at 6pm. For more details and to book visit www. wearebeams.org.uk Mothers’ Day Afternoon Tea, Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 0TG Enjoy a delicious traditional afternoon tea with a selection of sandwiches, delicious cakes and scones. Includes a gift for every Mother. Booking is essential. For more information and to book visit www.salomons-estate.com RE-CURATE: Video Art Rewind! With Wordplay, Quarterhouse, Folkestone, CT20 1BN 11am-3pm. Re-wind the master tapes of video and art and play a fun video-based game. Step into

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

Mothers’ Day Cream Tea and Costume, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH 3pm. Enjoy a delicious cream tea in the historic library, and go behind-the-scenes to see the gorgeous costume collection. Booking essential. For more information and to book visit www.museum.maidstone.gov.uk

the curators’ office and instruct your artists, work in the studio on your masterpiece, visit the gallery and check your exhibition. Free, drop-in. For more details visit www.creativefolkestone. org.uk

Mothers’ Day Lunch, Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 0TG Spoil your Mother and show her how much she is loved, with a delectable three-course Sunday lunch cooked to perfection. After your lunch enjoy a walk around the 36 acres of beautiful grounds and woodland. For more information and to book visit www.salomons-estate.com

”

Sat 21 – Sun 22 Mar

Railway Weekend, The Historic Dockyard, Chatham, ME4 4TE Savour the bygone age of steam with beautiful historic locomotives running through the site, operated by a dedicated team of volunteers. Re-live childhood memories or just find the perfect photo opportunity as you get up close to the railway. For more details visit https:// thedockyard.co.uk Mothers’ Day Weekend, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Spoil Mum with a memorable family day out.Young visitors can take part in a craft workshop and there will be a special menu in the restaurant. For more information visit www. hevercastle.co.uk

Sun 22 Mar

Mamma Mia! Mothers’ Day Screening, Alexander Centre, Faversham, ME13 8NZ 4pm. Go and singalong to this fantastic feel-good movie. Enjoy cabaret-style seating with room to dance. The bar will be open with cocktails available. Treat your Mamma to some ‘mia’ time. For more information visit www. thealexandercentre.com Mothers’ Day Cream Tea and Self-Guided Audio Tour, Tonbridge Castle, TN9 1BG 12noon, 2pm. See and hear the history of Tonbridge Castle and enjoy a cream tea set in the atmospheric Chamber room overlooking the wonderful Bailey lawn. Spaces are limited so book early by emailing Tonbridge. castle@tmbc.gov.uk. For more details visit www.tonbridgecastle. org

Mothers’ Day, Godinton House and Gardens, Ashford, TN23 3BP 1-5pm. Enjoy a stroll around the garden, take in the amazing display of daffodils ad fritillaries and then enjoy afternoon tea in the tearoom. Please note the House will not be open for guided tours. For more information visit www. godintonhouse.co.uk Mothering Sunday Lunch, Refectory Restaurant, Canterbury Cathedral, CT1 2EH 12.30-4.30pm. Every Mum deserves this Sunday off to relax. With Chef’s delicious 3 course lunch and the opportunity to take a stroll in the Cathedral grounds, Mum will be truly spoilt. Booking essential. For more information and to book visit www.canterbury-cathedral.org

Fri 27 Mar

Wear A Hat Day, Nationwide Wear a hat at home, school or to work. Organise a hat-themed bake sale, lay on a hat-tastic fashion show or think of your own idea to raise money for Brain Tumour Research. For more details and to get a fundraising pack visit www. braintumourresearch.org

Our next copy deadline is

28 February 2020 If you have something you would like us to try and publicise (space permitting) please email it to

listings@ primarytimes.biz

Pupil Pa

All your own work! Hanisga Thayalan aged 9

Lillian Carroll aged 7 tt Reynolds won competitions in our Christmas/Winter issue. Scarle Congratulations to the following people who won Garden Centre. Halliday won tickets to Paulos Circus at Millbrook our Places for People Leisure competition. Harrison l - St schoo her for s Gillian Mills won a box of book Our Queen's House Ice Rink winner was Hannah Lord. Theatre hill Churc the at Pig a Pepp Aitkenhead was our Thomas of Canterbury Catholic Primary School. Jenny rts, Robe hine Josep r, Foste Lillie i, Falak r ers were Favou winner. Dora and the Lost City of Gold on DVD winn ries: Histo ble Horri Our n. etitio comp land the Dream Emma Pydyn and Evelyn Carey. Julianne Hamlyn won s, Howard, Skye Hervey and Thomas Webbe. Liz Phillip Kai er, Hook Chloe , Baker l Danie were ers The Movie winn s. book Pony Flying Shyla Parmar all won sets of Roly-Poly Rosie Partridge, Joshua Adams, Max Simmonds and was Park. Our winner for bowling and a meal at The REC e polin Jessica Blackwell won a trip to Sky High Tram won lan Thaya ga Hanis and 8s r unde ing Competition for the Collette Dawes. Lillian Carroll won our Annie Draw page. this on rk artwo erful enjoy all the wond it for the older group. Well done to everyone and If you would like to see your work displayed Thank you to Nikola Jovanovski for her here then just send us a amazing HenryVIII drawing, Tiana Kulathilake drawing, poem, riddles, for her cute forest painting, Sraabon jokes or short story and Bhattacharya for his lovely house and garden we'll do our very best to painting and Ram for his deep sea drawing. include it. Send it to: We love seeing your work so do please keep Good Work Page sending it to us. We're happy to receive Primary Times artwork from the whole class so do feel free 7 Southbrook Mews to send us class entries. London SE12 8LG

EAST KENT FEBRUARY 2020.indd 23 Pupil Page Kent.indd 1

28/01/2020 13:47 21/01/2020 09:41

Katie

lown’s lippery nakes

Word Search MH AM MH B D A B S A R T P S U N A F

G A D P C O R A L D

A E E O T B C Y C F

R B L O Y O I B K G

T N T H N N K I N G

E U T D G A R B O C

Colour by letter

Colour in all the S’s to see who is hiding here!

R B V S J M A R S A E P WP Y T I T X V H OMO F MN C A T

Can you find all these words in the word search? Python, Anaconda, Viper, Cobra, Mambas, Titanoboa, Adder, Asp, Coral, Flying, Garter, Rattle, King, Sunbeam, Hoop,Cat, Fox

A n s w e r s

What do you get if you cross a snake and a lego set? A Boa Constructor!

Spot 10 Differences

Why do babies like cobras? Because they come with their own rattle!

Can you draw a picture or write a poem about What do you anything to do with snakes. get if you Make it as wacky and colourful as you can! cross a snake 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 28 February 2020. Good Luck!

EAST KENT FEBRUARY 2020.indd 24 Katie Clown Feb 20.indd 1

and a pig? A Boar Constrictor!

Why wouldn’t the snake go on the weighing machine? Because he had his own scales! Which snake is best at Maths? The Adder!

28/01/2020 13:47 19/12/2019 10:25