East London Easter 2018 Primary Times by Alison Watson

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IDE U NG O T’S A WH

for families with primary aged children

Spring/Easter Edition Issue 58 19 March - 13 May 2018

in East London

D N E H T U O S E M I T THE

S A W H C BEA ALL

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The Best Family Guide to What’s On

What’s On Your family diary for March, April and May Ongoing Until 31 Mar

Women’s History Month in East London

Celebrating women artists, activists, writers and performers, the suffragette movement and winning the right to vote for some women in 1918 and all women in 1928 with exhibitions and events across East London. For more information and to view the full programme visit www. alternativearts.co.uk

Until 2 Apr

You Can’t See the Trees for the Woods, The View, Chingford, E4 7QH

The culmination of Artist in Residence, Marion Sidebottom’s, yearlong project exploring how visual images can engage people’s interest in ancient trees and the Forest. Free. For times and more information visit www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ eppingforest

Until Sep

A World Inside a Book, Discover, Stratford, E15 4QZ

Take a trip into the brilliant 3-D technicolour world of the best loved children’s author, Julia Donaldson and illustrator Axel Scheffler, with the UK’s first immersive exhibition of their wonderful work. For more information and to book visit www. discover.org.uk

March

Sat 24 Mar – Mon 7 May Kidz World Family Wristband Fair, Valentines Park, Ilford, IG1 4SD 1-8pm School and Bank Holidays and Weekends. This year there will be new attractions and the fair will be bigger and better than ever before. Entry by wristband only. For more information visit www. parnhamfunfairs.co.uk

Sun 25 Mar

Forest Sundays, Bedfords Park, Havering-atte-Bower, RM4 1QH

11am-1pm. A monthly session based outdoors in the woods. Take part in den building, rope work, bushcraft skills and tool work, woodland crafts and explore wildlife. Enjoy some quality time outside with the family. Ages 5+. Book on 01708 748 646. For more information visit www. essexwt.org.uk

Tues 27 Mar

VeloBalance, Lee Valley VeloPark, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, E20 3AB

(Also 3, 6, 10, 13-15, 17, 20-22, 24, 27-29 Apr) This session helps kids build confidence on a bike and gets them riding without stabilisers. Ages 2+. For more information and to book visit www.visitleevalley.org.uk/ velopark

Wed 28 Mar

Easter Eggstravaganza!, Victoria Park, E3 5TB

Sat 24 Mar

Tolkien Reading Day, Discover, Stratford, E15 4QZ At 1pm join one of the Story Builders for fantastic storytelling, at 2pm there will be a beard-making workshop and a Tolkien lecture for adults at 3.30pm. For more information and to book visit www. discover.org.uk

Pedal Up Pump!, Lee Valley VeloPark, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, E20 3AB

(Also 31 Mar, 3, 6-7, 10, 13-14, 21, 28 Apr) These sessions will help young riders stand confidently on the pedals and learn how to negotiate the pump track safely, along with key bike handling techniques. Ages 7-12. For more information and to book visit www.visitleevalley.org.uk/velopark

12noon-3pm. Take part in an Easter Egg Hunt, have a photo with the Easter Bunny or make an Easter Bonnet in the arts and craft corner. Meet at the Hub Building. For more information visit www.towerhamlets. gov.uk

Thurs 29 Mar

Lee Valley Bug Club, Waltham Abbey Gardens, EN9 1XQ

1-2.30pm. Led by an experienced outdoor educator, it is guaranteed that the little ones will have a fun and exciting time exploring the gardens for bugs and finding out about what they catch. For more information and to book visit www.visitleevalley. org.uk

Oxford and Cambridge Goat Race, Spitalfields City Farm, E1 5AR Coinciding with the Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race, two goats (one representing Oxford and one representing Cambridge) go head to head in a race. For times, more information and to buy tickets visit www.facebook.com/thegoatrace

19 Mar - 13 May ‘18

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

“

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

”

Wear a Hat Day, Nationwide

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

Fri 30 Mar

Easter Eggsplorer, Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Haveringatte-Bower, RM4 1QH

10.30am-4pm. Take a wild walk through the woodland. Go along to Bedfords Park to ‘eggsplore’ the woodland and match the eggs to the animals they belong to. Collect your prize and create a craft back at the centre. Ages 3+. Book on 01708 748 646. For more information visit www. essexwt.org.uk

Fri 30 – Sat 31 Mar

Easter Egg Hunt, Mudchute Farm, E14 3HP

Join in an egg-citing hunt for Easter Eggs around the farm. For more information visit www.mudchute.org

Fri 30 Mar – Mon 2 Apr Easter Weekend, Lee Valley Park Farms, Waltham Abbey, EN9 2EF

10am-5pm. See if you can spot the Easter Bunny whilst searching for the missing eggs and enjoy various other Easter inspired activities. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.visitleevalley.org.uk

Egg Hunt, Discover, Stratford, E15 4QZ

10am-5pm. Find the clues around the building and garden to claim your Easter prize. This is a drop-in event suitable for all ages and pre-booking is not required. For more information visit www.discover.org.uk

Easter Egg Hunt, Epping Ongar Railway

Upon arrival, children will receive a sheet with clues, before being asked to find as many numbered eggs as they can, which Bertie has sneakily hidden around the Railway. Keep watch out of the windows during your journeys! For more information and to buy tickets visit www. eorailway.co.uk

Fri 30 Mar – Tues 3 Apr

The Highway Rat Film Screening, Discover, Stratford, E15 4QZ 11.30am. A swashbuckling tale of bandits and biscuits the whole family will enjoy, based on the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler and produced by Magic Light Pictures. Plus, The Highway Rat will be dropping in for a visit! Pre booking essential. For more information visit www.discover.org.uk

Fri 30 Mar – Fri 13 Apr Spring Holiday Activities, Aldersbrook Riding School, Manor Park, E12 5HW

Join in for some pony fun at the riding school this Easter. Take part in River Rides, ‘Have your own pony’ morning and lots more. All lessons and activities must be booked and paid for in advance. For more information visit www. aldersbrookriding.co.uk

Fri 30 Mar – Sun 15 Apr Easter Baby Boom, Lee Valley Park Farms, Waltham Abbey, EN9 2EF

10am-5pm. As well as the usual fun filled activities, various informative talks on the new arrivals, indoor and outdoor play areas and tractor and trailer rides to the Holyfield dairy farm, you will get the chance to feed the lambs and take part in an Easter Trail. To buy tickets visit www. visitleevalley.org.uk

Fri 30 Mar – Sun 2 Sep

Nordic Design for Children 1900 to Today, V&A Museum of Childhood, Bethnal Green, E2 9PA

This exhibition will gather the best and most progressive Nordic designs, architecture and art for children. The exhibition will feature ‘Nordic Icons’ including Arne Jacobsen, IKEA, Alvar Aalto, BabyBjörn, Tetra Pak and Helly Hansen. For more information visit www.vam.ac.uk/moc

Sat 31 Mar

Easter Trail, Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering-atteBower, RM4 1QH

10am-3pm. The Easter Bunny has been to Bedfords Park and left some chocolaty treats behind, can you find them? Follow the self-led trail, and then head back to the centre to collect a small prize. Ages 3+. For more information visit www.essexwt. org.uk

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

Dear Readers Tel: 020 8318 0400 Email: office@primarytimes.biz Website: www.primarytimes.co.uk Twitter: @PT_LondonSandE Instagram: @primarytimesse Publishing Editor: Peter Watson Sales: Sarah-Jane Chapple, Clarry Frewin, Gill Pearce & Andrew Langridge Listings: Hayley Hughes & Miriam Theobald Editorial: Anna Stringer & Dunya Simões Production: Alison Watson Office Manager: Chris Blower Administrators: Claire Wood & Tina Love Proof Reader: Catherine Draisey Social Media: Rachel Benson

Contents

inside this issue.... What’s On Guide.......................2 News.........................................4 Family Theatre..........................6 Spring Adventures.........................8 Education News....................... 15 Out of School Activities........... 18 All Your Own Work!.................23 Aquafresh Competition..........24

Peter and the Primary Times team Primary Times is now printed on recycled paper throughout, from 100% post-consumer waste, made in Europe by a paper mill that is certified and supports responsible forestry.

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Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in primary and junior schools throughout the boroughs of Barking & Dagenham, Havering, Newham, Redbridge, Tower Hamlets and Waltham Forest. 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 the boroughs of Barking & Dagenham, Havering, Newham, Redbridge, Tower Hamlets and Waltham Forest 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 London is operated under franchise licence.

There is talk of the weather getting warmer, the sun is beginning to shine every now and then, daffodils are in the shops so Spring must be on its way, finally, so welcome to our Spring/Easter magazine. We’ve tried our best to get in the mood for this egg-citing time of the year with an eggstraordinary magazine with egg-stra listings, egg-specially for all our readers ... no more eggs I promise unless they’re of the chocolate variety! For the fourth time we are the Family Friendly Media Partner of the Brighton Fringe - England’s largest arts festival with a fantastic range of comedy, acrobatics, dance, workshops and lots more all over Brighton from May to June. Don’t miss out - book tickets now at www.brightonfringe.org.uk. As usual we have loads of events to choose to go to over the Spring break. Hayley and Miriam have been working hard beavering away getting you the very best of things to go to. If you do visit any of their suggestions please mention that you read about them in Primary Times. Look out for our fantastic Brighton Fringe competition where you could end up winning a weekend in Brighton with accommodation, a meal, tickets to the Fringe and wonderful memories. To be in with a chance of winning this competition there’s a word search to complete and you could be off on a very jolly weekend with your family and we could be receiving a pretty postcard from a very happy reader! If you do enter this or any of our other competitions do remember to include your contact details. We often get entries from people we would love to pick as prize winners but if we can’t contact you we can’t let you win....

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

E c ola b el P E

Little things, like feeling part of the family, can change a foster child’s life Adoption isn’t the only way to be a family, consider fostering. It’s just as rewarding. Foster for Hackney and you’ll benefit from: ● Dedicated support and mentoring ● Allowances of up to £450 per week ● Access to various services ● Extensive training opportunities For more information Call: 0800 0730 418 Email: fostering.recruitment@hackney.gov.uk Web: www.hackney.gov.uk/fostering

HDS3513

19 Mar - 13 May ‘18

News

Win School Equipment and a Class Sleepover

This Easter, Aquafresh are kicking-off the season with the launch of its Inventors Academy competition, giving schools the opportunity to win £1,000 worth of equipment and a whole class sleepover at the Science Museum. Open to every primary school within the UK, the competition encourages teachers to focus on the importance of oral hygiene linked to the National Curriculum, whilst bringing fun to the subject with an invention competition. This engaging activity has been created to support the brand’s new Aquafresh Advance 9-12 range, whilst helping to educate children on the importance of good oral hygiene. What can UK kids do to make it more fun? Aquafresh has the answer!

Fostering New Starts with Chrysalis Care

However you acknowledge it, Easter is undoubtedly a time of birth, new beginnings and fresh starts. As school holidays also feature, it’s a time for making wonderful family memories. Maybe you have shared some fantastic Easter experiences and with room for one or two more in your camp, you have wondered if fostering is for you? That’s a great start. The founders of Chrysalis Care took the very same step, more than 35 years ago, becoming a fostering family along with their three young daughters. Fifteen years later, in 1997, they created Chrysalis Care, a family-run fostering agency and, over more than 20 years, have helped hundreds of families share memorable experiences with children and young people who really need a fresh start. Foster carers are based across London, Kent, Essex, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire and benefit from expert 24-hour advice, guidance, training and support. If a new beginning is on your mind and you want to join in transforming lives through fostering children and young people, contact Chrysalis Care to speak with a friendly and knowledgeable member of staff. Call 020 8298 2800, email info@chrysaliscare.org or visit www.chrysaliscarefostering.org.

Children will be tasked with creating their very own innovation to make brush time more enjoyable. Using a simple entry form, parents will then be asked to upload their child’s invention to the Aquafresh Inventors Academy microsite, www.aquafreshinventorsacademy.com giving their child the chance to win an exclusive sleepover at the Science Museum. Teachers are encouraged to download fully comprehensive lesson plans, presentations and materials at www.aquafreshinventorsacademy. com to share with their pupils and get them excited about good oral hygiene and brushing their teeth. The competition is open for entries for children between the ages of 7 and 11 until 31 May, so get brushing-up on your funvention lessons and ideas following the Easter break.

Win an Amazing Brighton Fringe Package for Your Family Here at Primary Times we are celebrating another year as the Family Friendly Media Partner of Brighton Fringe and what better way to celebrate than a fantastic competition for our readers. Brighton Fringe is the largest Arts Festival in England, full of a huge variety of fun and quirky events and shows for the whole family to enjoy. It takes place in many venues across Brighton from 4 May to 3 June. We have an incredible prize for the lucky winner. You and your family will win a mini break in Brighton during the May half term. This will include a night's stay [28 May] in a family suite at the Queens Hotel Brighton, considered one of the best Hotels in Brighton. Breakfast and access to the swimming pool, gym and sauna are included. [www. queenshotelbrighton. com] The prize also includes lunch for four at Red Roaster, a modern, botanical, tranquil space serving brunch and lunch under the direction of Michelin chef, Matt Gillan. It’s at the bottom of St James Street, very convenient for the Spiegeltent area. Lunch is available until 5pm and will be a real treat. On top of all this we are giving away a family ticket [up to 2 adults and 2 children] on 28 May to see Sourpuss at The Komedia Studio - a lovely show with puppeteer Lori Hopkins and Sourpuss, a very grumpy cat. 4

19 Mar - 13 May ‘18

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

To be in with a chance of winning this fabulous prize, all you need to do is complete the word search. Then fill out the form with your details and send them both to Brighton Fringe Competition, Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London, SE12 8LG. Or scan a copy of your completed form and email it to competitons@primarytimes.biz with ‘Brighton Fringe’ as the subject by Friday 27 April. Name ..............................................................................Age ...................... Address ........................................................................................................ ....................................................................................................................... Phone/Email................................................................................................ School ..........................................................................................................

Every week in Hackney, vulnerable children come into care for different reasons and when they do, the Council need to ensure they will get the love, support and stability they deserve to flourish through childhood and beyond. If you or someone you know has a spare bedroom and the capacity to provide a safe and nurturing home environment for a vulnerable child or young person, then do consider fostering. As a foster carer for Hackney you will benefit from dedicated support as well as a wide range of training opportunities to encourage professional development. Hackney Foster Carer’s Council is there for you too with more informal support and various social events. They also pay a generous weekly fee and allowance. Hackney’s service is innovative and progressive, always looking at ways to improve the offer for foster carers and the children in care. If you are interested in making a real difference to the community and the lives of young people, please call 0800 0730 418 or email fostering.recruitment@hackney.gov.uk.

Take on the Wipe Out Aquatic Challenges

Head to London Aquatics Centre this Easter Holidays for splashing fun in Aqua Splash, Extreme Aqua Splash or Ultimate Aqua Splash sessions. It’s not just fun for the kids, adults love having a go too. Tackle Aqua Splash, a 20-metre wipe-out inflatable obstacle course in the Training Pool and see if you’re ready for the 40-metre long Extreme Aqua Splash in the Competition Pool. If you are feeling adventurous, then why not try Ultimate Aqua Splash which incorporates a 3m and 5m inflatable slide and an obstacle course into the Extreme set up. If you want to learn to swim for the first time, improve your technique or book your child onto a swimming course, the London Aquatics Centre has a range of options for you. Short courses in both swimming and diving will be running throughout the holidays and in addition there are courses available to book which run for 50 weeks of the year. The professional team of teachers and coaches are waiting to welcome you. Keep up to date with what’s on offer at the ‘Pool Of Champions’ including fitness classes, news and new activities at www.londonaquaticscentre.org and follow them on Twitter at @AquaticsCentre.

Easter Mondays at Stubbers

News

Foster for Hackney

Easter is fast approaching and SMASH Camps at Stubbers Adventure Centre have the perfect solution to balance out all that Easter Egg indulgence and encourage some wholesome family fun with their Big Adventure Mondays. Fun-seekers will be able to trial the centre’s most popular activities, within the 130-acres across lakes, woodland and open space. Water-based activities on offer include jet-ski, speed boat rides, canoeing and kayaking. If you’d rather keep dry though, there’s all terrain boarding, grass sledging, archery, rifle shooting and laser tag to choose from. For motor lovers, why not sample quad biking, while those with a head for heights can give Stubbers’ high ropes, climbing or vertical assault course a try. Refreshments are available at The Source Coffee Shop on-site or why not lay a blanket on the centre’s open grassland and crack open the picnic basket. After a little rest, it’ll be time to delve into more new activities. Prices start at £19 per person or £68 for a family ticket (4 tickets, must include 1 adult). To book your place on Big Adventure Mondays, please visit www. smashcamps.co.uk or call 01708 224 753. Hurry though, because places are strictly limited. Don’t forget that SMASH Camps are open over the Easter holidays from 2-13 April with a variety of day to multi-week activities for children in schools years 2-11. Prices start from £39 per day and if you book a full week you only pay £1 for the last day!

FREE Superhero Fun this Easter at The Liberty Monday 2nd – Friday 13th April 11am - 4pm Fly down to The Liberty this Easter dressed as your favourite Superhero and take part in our FREE art & craft workshops PLUS enter our free prize draw to win a bundle of Superhero goodies! See Customer Service Desk or website for more information.

theliberty.co.uk

19 Mar - 13 May ‘18

Family Theatre

favourite fairy tales. Starring Bob the Builder, Little Princess, Milkshake! Monkey, two Milkshake! presenters and lots more. Ages 2-6.

11 – 14 Apr

Box Office: 020 7638 8891 29 Mar – 7 Apr

Coraline

Packed with astonishing imagery, Coraline is an engrossing yarn, a much-loved story about a girl who discovers a door in her parent’s home, leading to an entirely different place and family. Ages 8+.

Broadway Barking Box Office: 020 8507 5607 22 Mar

You’ve Got Dragons

A delightful tale of one child’s journey to come to terms with their dragons, told in Taking Flight’s unique style.

2 Apr

There was an Old Lady who Swallowed a Fly

The Wind in the Willows

14 Apr

7 Apr

Wizard Stonering

Meet the amazing Wizard Stonering with his colourful and exciting show with lots of comedy, participation and surprising magic.

The KMT are delighted to present this ingenious adaptation of the classic children’s novel The Wind in the Willows. See Badger, Ratty, Mole and Toad of Toad Hall in the familiar tale with a contemporary slant.

15 – 17 Apr

19 – 21 Apr

6 May

Barnum

This exuberant and moving musical follows the story of Phineas T Barnum’s life and marriage from his early days in the business to him joining forces with James A. Bailey to form the ‘Greatest Show on Earth’.

Half Moon Young People’s E1

Enjoy the show! And don’t forget to say you saw it in

Box Office: 020 7709 8900 www. halfmoon.org.uk 24 Mar

Bring one of the Primary world’s best loved Zoom! Times! Lauretta’s nursery rhymes to wheelchair is life just in time to celebrate rusty, old and slow. She wants the 45th anniversary of Pam new wheels that are slick and Adams’ bestselling book. Ages fast. Zoom! follows Lauretta 2+. through her chaotic journey, where near disaster wheels 8 Apr around to speedy heroics. Ages The Jungle Book 3-7. Join Mowgli and his friends Baloo the bear and Bagheera Queen’s Theatre the panther on a madcap Hornchurch adventure in the jungle as they Box Office: 01708 443 333 meet and attempt to outwit a 27 Mar slithering snake and the fierce tiger, Shere Khan. The Sleeping Beauty The classic fairy tale set Kenneth More Ilford to Tchaikovsky’s magnificent Box Office: 020 8553 4466 score with stunning choreography, and beautiful 4 – 5 Apr costumes - all bringing this The Wizard of Oz great tale to life. It’s sure to Enjoy this Spectacular Easter enchant audiences of all ages. Pantomime adaptation of L.

Frank Baum’s classic story 31 Mar which is packed with good Milkshake! Live jokes, quality song and dance An all singing, all dancing routines, spectacular scenery show taking audiences on a and plenty more for all the journey through the world’s family. 6 19 Mar - 13 May ‘18

Pulse

Children (and mums and dads) can take along their favourite teddies and meet the biggest teddy bear in the whole world in this delightful show.

Teddy Bears’ Picnic

Barbican EC2

Box Office: 020 8279 1080 21 – 22 Mar Two characters celebrate the coming of the rain in song, movement and colour in this immersive show designed for children and young people with profound and multiple learning disabilities, and who are on the autistic spectrum. Ages 6+.

8 Apr

Family Theatre

Stratford Circus

A Spoonful of Sherman Catch this practically perfect family production on its premiere UK tour celebrating 100 years of Sherman family music.

Pop Divas Live

Little Mix will cast some Black Magic, Katy Perry will Roar and of course, Adele will be saying Hello as five enormously talented girls bring you up close and personal with the greatest pop performers of today.

12 May

Magic Frostie

Join Magic Frostie, in a hairraising fun-filled show. Along with his bird Squalk, and monster Ziggy, balloons and of course mind-blowing magic. It will have the kids laughing and the grown-ups amazed.

Redbridge Drama Centre Box Office: 020 8708 8803 28 – 29 Mar

The Day of the Funfair

The show will be written by Jonny Siddall and …. you! Once you have booked your tickets you’ll receive a copy of the script – fill in the gaps, send it back and see some of your words come to life.

Red Riding Hood and the Wolf Robyn can’t relate to Red Riding Hood, sugar and spice and all things nice. There are two sides to every tale. What if the Big Bad Wolf wasn’t big or bad at all? What if they got it wrong? Ages 7+.

12 May

The Little Mochi Man

It’s almost New Year and little Mochi Man, tired of being bullied because of his small size, decides to run away. Will he make friends? Will he make it back home in time for the celebrations? Ages 4-7.

24 – 26 May

Rufus Longbottom and the Space Rabbit

Guided by the Space Rabbit’s magical paws, the unlikely pair go on a journey which takes them to the ends of the earth in the search for a family and a place to call home. Ages 6+.

Theatre Royal Stratford East Box Office: 020 8534 0310 3 – 4 Apr

Cirque Berserk!

Combining contemporary cirque-style artistry with adrenaline-fuelled stunt action, this astoundingly talented international troupe includes over thirty jugglers, acrobats, aerialists, dancers, drummers and daredevil stuntmen. Ages 6+.

Wilton’s Music Hall

27 – 28 Apr

Box Office: 020 7702 2789 4 – 6 Apr

Sarah & Duck’s Big Top Birthday

Morgan and West: More Magic for Kids!

Join Sarah and Duck, along with all their favourite friends including The Ribbon Sisters, The Shallots, John and Flamingo and Umbrella, as they plan a circus-themed birthday party for Scarf Lady in their garden. Ages 3-6.

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

Easter... a time for gratitude, reflection and growth... and perhaps the time for you to transform the life of a child!

THIS GIRL CAN SWIM Dedicated women only swimming sessions are available at your local Better leisure centre.

Find out more at www.better.org.uk/thisgirlcanswim

02082982800 www.chrysaliscarefostering.org

SWIM WITH

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Find out more about becoming a foster carer with Chrysalis Care this Spring and Easter.

03/03/2017 13:04

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19 Mar - 13 May ‘18

Spring Adventures

Spring Adventures Fun Days Out with the Family Meet the Highway Rat at Discover

Meet the swashbuckling character from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s popular picture book The Highway Rat and catch his incarnation on the big screen if you missed its release on Christmas Day. Discover Children’s Story Centre will be running special screenings of the film over the Easter Bank Holiday weekend, 30 March – 3 April.

Easter at Romford Shopping Hall

Romford Shopping Hall are holding their annual EGG-stravaganza and Easter Egg Hunt on Friday 6 April from 10am – 4pm. Bust out your bunny ears and discover the fabulous selection of independent shops right on your doorstep. Upon arrival you will be issued a basket and map to begin your adventure, you will need all your super sleuthing skills to find the treats on route. Make sure you visit all the shops on the map to collect yummy sweets at each pick up point on the map. The egg hunt costs just £3 per child including face paint. Look at the Romford Shopping Mall Facebook page, www.facebook.com/romfordshoppinghall, for more information about this and other upcoming events.

Then step inside the immersive exhibition ‘A World Inside a Book: Gruffalos, Dragons and Other Creatures’ and explore the worlds from twelve of Donaldson and Scheffler’s picture books, including The Gruffalo, Stick Man and Room on the Broom. Enter the cosy sitting room of Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book, settle down for a story and creep into a magical world of forests, miniature houses, dragons and other creatures. Be the smartest giant in town, climb through The Highway Rat’s cave, rock hop through the Monkey Puzzle jungle, discover the underwater worlds of Tiddler and The Snail and the Whale and take your seat for the ride of your life with The Room on the Broom. Search for clues

Easter Egg Hunt Romford Shopping Hall 43 Market Place, Romford RM1 3AB

6th April 2017 10 am - 4 pm £3.00 per child Includes facepaint!

Easter Holidays A World Inside a Book: Gruffalos, Dragons & Other Creatures The Highway Rat Film Screening Plus: Author and Illustrator events. Call us on 020 8536 5555 or visit us at discover.org.uk 383 – 387 High Street, Stratford, London, E15 4QZ

Registered charity number 1070468

19 Mar - 13 May ‘18

Image credit: Magic Light Pictures ©

For babies and toddlers, Monkey Puzzle will take them on a journey through the jungle to help find Monkey’s mum with the help of Butterfly and Discover’s Story Builders. Discover is open every day from 10am-5pm. Pre-booking is essential. To book, visit www.discover. org.uk or call 020 8536 5555. Photo credit: Magic Light Pictures

Springtime Fun in Epping Forest

It’s time to get out and celebrate the arrival of spring in Epping Forest. Epping Forest are delighted to present the new ‘Short walks in Epping Forest’ book retailing at £6.99 and the latest revision of ‘The Official Map of Epping Forest’ at £4.95. Why not purchase a copy from Epping Forest’s flagship Visitor Centre, The View in Ranger’s Road, Chingford and make the most of some warmer weather, to get out and explore the unique, ancient woodland? The book contains 20 walks and is packed full of ideas and information for learning more about an area of Epping Forest you may already be familiar with as well as inspiration for getting out and discovering perhaps a new corner of the 6,000 acre woodland. Armed with the book and/or the new map you can truly make the most of London’s largest open space. There are plenty of events taking place with Easter fun for all the family at The View on 2 April. For full details of this and all Epping Forest events visit

www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/eppingforestevents To receive a special introductory offer price of £4.50 for the book and £4 for the map, visit The View and quote promotional offer EFPT18 throughout March and April.

Getting Outdoors this Spring

As we enter into spring, now is the perfect time to get children exploring their surrounding environment and discovering how nature changes over the year. Hello Nature Activity Cards are the perfect way to get your young ones exploring the outdoors if you’re looking for a way to get the kids outside this Easter and to get them away from all their chocolate eggs. The pocket-sized set is perfect for little adventurers to take along for a walk in the woods, holidays on the beach or just whilst pottering in their own back garden.

Spring Adventures

around the building for the chance to win a chocolate treat, plus meet some fantastic authors and illustrators.

The colourful illustrations show how to identify a tree from its seed, how a frog is different from a toad, where to find the Big Dipper and much more. With thirty fun activities to try, from stone skimming and pond dipping to making feather quill pens, the whole family will be able to celebrate the great outdoors together.You could even get your children’s friends and their parents to come along too and make a day of it, each trying out different activities and swapping the best ones. With 30 activities to choose from, the Hello Nature Activity Cards are sure to keep you and your family entertained for hours. Sets are available for £9.99 online and from all good high street retailers.

Easter in Epping Forest

Century of the Child Vik Prjónsdottir, The babyseal, 2006, Marino Thorlacius © Vik Prjónsdottir

Nordic Design for Children 1900 to Today

@COLEppingForest Epping Forest City of London @coleppingforest

www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/eppingforest

Museum of Childhood

u Bethnal Green 30 March – 2 September 2018 In partnership with

vam.ac.uk/moc

19 Mar - 13 May ‘18

Spring Adventures

The Big Bluebell Watch

The Big Bluebell Watch will return this spring and, once again, the Woodland Trust needs your help to spot the UK’s bluebells. Last year they collected 48,200 bluebell records across the UK and this year, with your help, the Trust hopes to discover even more. Last year’s records showed that native bluebells are going strong. 80% of the bluebells recorded were native. Non-native bluebell hotspots were as expected - they were mainly recorded in developed areas, and only 2% of them were recorded in woodlands. Last year’s data was used by a variety of organisations and scientists to support their work and was downloaded over 150 times. Get involved this year and record your local bluebell sightings from 2 April until 31 May.You can also help by working to prevent the spread of non-native bluebells and protect the native species in the wild. But remember – never pull up bluebells in the wild, even if you suspect they are non-native. Native bluebells are protected by law and it can be difficult to tell the difference. Be part of something bigger. Support the Woodland Trust and help create, protect and restore habitat for bluebells. To keep up to date with the Big Bluebell Watch, why not sign up to receive email updates and find out more at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk.

Sniff out Something New to Do

Fed up with the same old walkies? Stuck for ideas on how to keep your hound happy in the winter months? Well worry no more. Pet insurer MORE TH>N has developed a free ideas generator for days out with dogs - owners simply pop in their postcode and push the button, and the tool will recommend dog-friendly holidays and

days out across the UK. So whether you and your faithful friend want to explore the paw-fectly named Roundball Woods or Barky Beach, or you’re simply looking for a nearby dog-friendly beach, dog-friendly pub, a new walking route in the countryside or a new dogfriendly park – all the information is available at the touch of a button. The search results page also includes testimonials from other dog owners who use the recommended places regularly. Owners can go to www.morethan.com/pet-insurance to explore the generator and find the perfect dog-friendly holiday or day out.

Dragons Come to Romford

Calling all budding knights and princesses. One of the most anticipated events of the year is set to return to Romford Shopping Hall on Saturday 21 April from 10am to 4pm. Help to hunt down Saint George’s missing dragon eggs. Go and join the fun in fancy dress (optional).You may even bump into the dragon himself who will make appearances throughout the day. Visitors will be treated to a host of entertainment including performances and marching bands. The Market will be filled with a number of performers, such as stilt walkers, magicians, and circus performers. As well as the dragons which will be

GP_Ad_95x140

Saint George’s Dragon Egg Hunt at ROMFORD SHOPPING HALL 43 Market Place, Romford RM1 3AB

Saturday 21st April 10 am - 4pm £3.00 per child 50% to the Mayor’s charities

Easter Extravaganza Enjoy something different with the whole family. Hunt around the grounds, following the clues to find the prize. There will be plenty for everyone to get involved in, from face painting and bushcraft to arts and crafts. Tickets from £5.50 per child + booking fee (adults free). To book, visit: www.gilwellpark.co.uk/events www.romfordshoppinghall.com

19 Mar - 13 May ‘18

Spring Adventures

roaming the market, watch out for a princess and of course brave St George! The event proceeds will help to raise funds for the Havering Mayors Charities including First Step, Dementia UK Admiral Nurses and Havering Volunteer Centre. The dragon egg hunt costs £3 per child including face paint. Look at the Romford Shopping Mall Facebook page, www. facebook.com/romfordshoppinghall, for more information about this and other upcoming events.

Easter on Board the Cutty Sark

It’s time to come aboard the Cutty Sark for a whole host of epic activities. Create a beautiful shimmering underwater scene with a talented artist beneath the hull of the ship. Learn about the sea creatures that live in the ocean and find out how some animals managed to hitch a ride on the bottom of passing boats and ships. Or make your own animal hide and seek picture with pop-up interactives to take home with you and discover why the ship carried animals on her many voyages. Discover the ship with an explorer trail or one of the under-5s backpacks. See one of the Cutty Sark characters who will bring incredible stories about the ship’s past to life. Meet Captain Woodget, the ship’s most daring master, Emma Louise Ray, the mother of a young apprentice, or Nannie the Witch, the ship’s figurehead. Each has a special story to tell. Other activities include climbing into the bunks where the crew used to sleep. All activities are free with an admission ticket to the ship and are suitable for ages 3 and above. The arts and crafts activities will run from 11.30am-1.30pm and 2-4pm. Cutty Sark characters will appear at 11am, 12noon, 1.30pm and 2.30pm. Activities vary throughout the Easter Holidays so check the website for details, www.rmg.co.uk. www.parnhamfunfairs.co.uk

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19 Mar - 13 May ‘18

Spring Adventures

Urban Village Fete

The Best All Weather Picnic Spot

Having attracted more than 25,000 visitors in the past two years, the 2018 event looks to be a bigger, bolder celebration of the best in design, music, art, innovative events and modern craftsmanship, right at the heart of Greenwich Peninsula.

Once there be sure to check with the station master where to catch “the next train with tables and big windows”. Then take your seats in an attractive carriage, set the table for your picnic with your best tablecloth, and enjoy the changing views and your sandwiches without a trace of sand, creepy-crawlies or damp grass on a train hauled by a steam locomotive or historic diesel engine.

Enjoy a village summer fete atmosphere in the city this spring. On 20 May, Greenwich Peninsula, the largest emerging neighbourhood in the capital is hosting its annual Urban Village Fete. Curated by Hemingway Design, UVF is an alternative, contemporary twist on the traditional summer fete for the Peninsula’s pioneering residents and all Londoners.

The free day out will feature a range of curated designer marketplaces, street food vendors, art & design workshops, unique pop-ups and a series of talks hosted by BBC Radio London’s Robert Elms. For music lovers, Gilles Peterson, the iconic British DJ and owner of Brownswood Recordings will be at the helm all day. There will be walkabout entertainment throughout and a line-up of interactive workshops for all ages including the chance to become a DJ for the day with The Charity Shop DJ. Find out more at www.greenwichpeninsula.co.uk.

With convenient connections to the trains at Shenfield and the Underground at Epping, the Epping Ongar Railway is a great place to take the kids at any time. From these stations a traditional London bus will whisk you and your children to North Weald or Ongar where a great day out starts to take shape.

You have arrived at Epping Ongar Railway – with a great series of family events including Peppa Pig, PJ Masks, The Gruffalo and PAW Patrol, there’s bound to be something for kids of all ages. Trains and buses run throughout the day and tickets include unlimited travel so there’s no need to rush. Plan your Easter day trip at www.eorailway. co.uk.

Make Moments They’ll Remember

Make memories along the South Essex coast this spring. From picturesque seaside towns brimming with charm, to old-school rollercoaster fun, c2c Trains can help you have a great family day out for less. Kids travel for just £2 with C2C’s popular Kids for £2 offer - up to four kids can travel for £2 each when accompanied by a farepaying adult during off-peak weekday journeys.

Easter Egg Hunt

30, 31 March & 1,2 April

Easter Bunny Visit Children’s Disco “The Bunny Hop” Facepainters

See Peppa Pig & George 27 & 28 May Advert-PJMasks-003.pdf at intervals

See

Sunday 10th June 2018 Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Splash your way through 5k of bubbles. Book today for a colourful and foamy fun run! Ticket prices start from £20 for adults and £17 for children. All funds raised from Bubble Rush will be split equally between all four hospices.

elbubblerush18.eventbrite.co.uk 12

19 Mar - 13 May ‘18

26 & 27 August at intervals

www.pjmasks.com PJ Masks ©Frog Box/Ent. One UK Ltd/Disney 2014

Come and see Owlette & Gekko - 5 May Owlette & Catboy - 6 May at intervals on each day

Take the tube to Epping Underground Station where our heritage buses pick you up from right outside. Visit our website for more details.

eorailway.co.uk

01277 365200

When the weather is being… British, don’t let it stop you from getting out of the house. Adventure Inside has rides, a huge indoor play area and hundreds of arcade games to keep everyone entertained under one roof. Or for a more out of this world experience, visit the Central Museum and Planetarium for your budding astronauts. Why not try the enchanting town of Leigh-on-Sea? Enjoy fresh seafood whilst taking in the views of sailboats bobbing on the water along the coastline. If the sun disappears, the You Pottery Painting Studio is a great place to entertain budding artists. To book your £2 tickets visit www.c2c-online.co.uk today.

Busy Bee Week at The Mall Walthamstow

It’s all buzzing at The Mall Walthamstow. The Secret Seed Society have been working alongside The Mall for over two years putting together and delivering an amazing array of free vegetable-based

Easter Eggs-travaganza Free admission

3–13 April 10:00am–4:30pm

Spring Adventures

If you’re looking for some inspiration, why not hop on the train to Southend-on-Sea? You’ll be there in under an hour and can tire out your big kids by taking them to the longest pier in Europe. Or for smaller, tired legs, why not take a ride on the Pier Train, travelling a mile out over the water. Finish off your day by visiting Adventure Island. With their 75ft rollercoaster, the ‘Kiddi Koasta’ and ‘Over the Hill’ their new ride-in-the-dark experience, you’ll find family fun suitable for all ages.

fun-filled activities throughout the school holidays. To celebrate the installation of beehives on the Mall’s roof this Easter, the Centre, along with the team from secret seeds, will be hosting a “Busy Bee Week” putting on a selection of free children’s workshops, all bee related. Come along from Monday 9 April and join in the fun daily between 11am and 4pm. If that isn’t exciting enough, The Mall are holding a poster competition with great prizes up for grabs. If you’re a monster club member don’t forget to bring your stamp card and start collecting for your next free gift. For more information, visit www.themall. co.uk/walthamstow.

END

THE TIME SOUTH

BEACH WAS ALL

OURS

Kids travel to Southend for just

Join the hunt to find the hidden chicks and golden egg by following the trail around the Museum and then decorate an Easter headband, mask or finger puppet to take home. There’s a chocolate egg for every child. 10:00am–5:00pm Monday to Friday. Closed weekends and Bank Holidays. Entrance in Bartholomew Lane, London EC2R 8AH

Share your experience boemuseum T: 020 3461 5545

www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

Make moments they’ll remember forever. London to Southend in less than 1 hour by train with c2c.

Get started at c2c-online.co.uk *Terms apply. Visit c2c-online.co.uk

19 Mar - 13 May ‘18

What’s On

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

March Easter Extravaganza, Gilwell Park, Chingford, E4 7QW

10am-5pm. Hunt around the beautiful grounds following the clues to find the prize. Also enjoy Bushcraft activities - both must be booked in advance. For more information and to book visit www.gilwellpark.co.uk

Sea Signs, Cutty Sark, Greenwich, SE10 9HT

11.30am-4pm. Join in on board Cutty Sark for a fun-filled day of family craft activities, storytelling, Cutty Sark character performances and guided tours for deaf and hearing impaired families. Activities are either BSL-led or supported by BSL interpreters. For more information visit www.rmg. co.uk/cuttysark

Sat 31 Mar – Sun 15 Apr Easter Holidays, RSPB Rainham Marshes Nature Reserve, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ

Drop in to Rainham Marshes this Easter to take part in some fabulous family activities.You can pick up an adventure trail sheet at the visitor centre, take part in self-guided activities, or there’s something on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. For more information visit www. rspb.org.uk/rainham

April

Mon 2 Apr

Country Crafts, Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre, Hornchurch, RM12 6DF

1-2.30pm. Drop in to make a Bunny or Butterfly for Easter from Natural Seeds and Pulses. Minimum age 8 years old. Donation £6 per child. Book on 01708 520 364. For more information visit www.essexwt.org.uk

Easter Fun, The View, Chingford, E4 7QH

1-4pm. Go along and join the Easter fun with egg decorating, Easter crafts and a woodland trail. The Easter bunny will also be here all day, so come and take a picture with Epping Forest’s favourite fluffy-tailed friend. Free admission. For more information visit www.cityoflondon. gov.uk

Nimesh the Adventurer with Ranjit Singh, Discover, Stratford, E15 4QZ

2pm. Join Nimesh on his walk home from school – and you’re in for an amazing adventure! Author Ranjit Singh leads this fun event that will ignite young readers’ imaginations! This event will be followed by a book signing. Ages 5+. For more information and to book visit www. discover.org.uk

Mon 2 – Tues 3 Apr

Sun 1 Apr

Easter Trail, Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering-atteBower, RM4 1QH

Wild Weekend, The Engine House, Walthamstow Wetlands, N17 9NH

10am-3pm. Learn about the habitats on site and be inspired to make your own crafts, go along and have fun with all the family. Watch out for signs of Spring, take part in activities such as pond dipping or go on a nature trail. Free. For more information visit www.wildlondon. org.uk

Sun 1 – Mon 2 Apr

Easter Bank Holiday Country Fair, River Lee Country Park – Showground, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1AB 10am-5pm. Arena entertainment will include a birds of prey flying display, terrier racing, children’s entertainer, the goat show including bottle feeding lambs and kids, historical

re-enactment and much, much more. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.visitleevalley.org.uk

Family Fun Days, The Engine House, Walthamstow Wetlands, N17 9NH

10am-12noon and 1-3pm. Celebrate Spring with activities about the flowers, leaves and buds on site, learn about the invertebrates, birds and mammals and be inspired to create your own crafts. Free. For more information visit www.wildlondon. org.uk

Mon 2 – Fri 13 Apr

Easter, Stubbers Adventure Centre, Upminster, RM14 2TY

There will be lots of fun activities to take part in over the Easter holidays such as Multi Activity Days, Smash Breakfast Club, specialist days and Smash Commando Week. Suitable for children in school years 2-11. For more information and to book visit www.smashcamps.co.uk

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

19 Mar - 13 May ‘18

“

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

”

Free Superhero Fun, The Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, RM1 3RL

11am-4pm. Go along dressed as your favourite Superhero and take part in some free art and craft workshops this Easter at The Liberty.You can also enter a free prize draw to be in for the chance to win a bundle of Superhero goodies. For more information visit www.theliberty. co.uk

Easter Holidays, V&A Museum of Childhood, Bethnal Green, E2 9PA

11am-4pm. Be inspired by the colours and shapes of flowers and plants, explore different natural materials for crafts and enjoy folk stories from Nordic countries with drop-in and bookable workshops this Easter. For more information and to find out what’s on visit www.vam. ac.uk/moc

Tues 3 Apr

BMX Thrills and MTB Skills, Lee Valley VeloPark, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, E20 3AB

(Also 5 Apr) 10am. This ultimate BMX and Mountain bike session allows children between the ages of 7-11 to improve their skills, learn new techniques and gain confidence in two different cycling disciplines. For more information and to book visit www.visitleevalley.org.uk/ velopark

Clayworld Workshop, V&A Museum of Childhood, Bethnal Green, E2 9PA

(Also 5-6, 10-12 Apr) 11am. Create an imaginary miniature clay world with the help of artist Sarah Dhanjal. Ages 4+. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www. vam.ac.uk/moc

Tues 3 – Thurs 5 Apr

Pattern Print Workshop, V&A Museum of Childhood, Bethnal Green, E2 9PA

10.40am, 12.30pm and 2.40pm. Get inspiration from Nordic design classics like Marimekko, and work with artist Helen Rousseau to design your own block print pattern. Ages 4+. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www. vam.ac.uk/moc

Tues 3 – Fri 13 Apr

Easter Eggs-travaganza, Bank of England Museum, EC2R 8AH

10am-4.30pm. Join the hunt to find the hidden chicks and golden egg by following the trail around the Museum and then decorate an Easter

headband, mask or finger puppet to take home. There’s a chocolate egg for every child. Free admission. For more information visit www. bankofengland.co.uk/museum

Wed 4 Apr

Family Orienteering Competition, Waltham Abbey Gardens, EN9 1XQ

10.30am-12.30pm. Can you become a wildlife detective team, navigating the orienteering course and uncovering the mystery of whom or what raided the bird box? Gain points for every correct clue, naming ‘whodunnit’ and have the opportunity for bonus points too. To book visit www. visitleevalley.org.uk

Easter Bunny Plant Trail, South Park, Ilford, IG1 1XU

10-11.30am. Look at the wonderful plants in the park. From the tallest trees to the littlest flower, and search for signs that the Easter Bunny has been exploring. For more information and to book call 020 8559 2316.

Easter Bonnet Crafting and Parade, Mudchute Farm, E14 3HP

Get crafty on the farm! Make your very own Easter bonnet, then join in an Easter Bonnet parade to show off your new creation. For more information visit www.mudchute.org

There’s a Walrus in my Bed with Ciara Flood, Discover, Stratford, E15 4QZ

2pm. Listen to authorillustrator Ciara Flood read from her new picture book at this interactive storytelling session and learn how to draw your very own walrus. This event will be followed by a book signing. Ages 4+. For more information and to book visit www. discover.org.uk

Pirates in the Park, Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre, Hornchurch, RM12 6DF

10am-12.30pm. Join in aboard the pirate ship in the woods to set sail on an adventure to find the buried treasure chest. Find the items on a scavenger hunt, make small boats and pirate craft to take home. Ages 3+. Book on 01708 520 364. For more information visit www.essexwt.org.uk

Easter Event, Valence House, Dagenham, RM8 3HT

10am-4pm. Farm animals from Gemma’s Farm join in for a day of Easter fun and frolics. Take part in craft activities and an Easter egg hunt. Free. For more information visit www.lbbd.gov.uk

Wed 4 – Sun 8 Apr

Shimmering Sea Big Build, Cutty Sark, Greenwich, SE10 9HT

11.30am and 2pm. Create a beautiful shimmering underwater scene with an artist, beneath the hull of Cutty Sark. Learn about the sea creatures that live in the ocean and find out how some animals managed to hitch

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

The competition is open to all children aged 4-14 and this year’s theme is ‘Heroes’. Children are invited to write a 500 word story all about a hero. This could be an everyday hero or a superhero. The winner will be surprised at a school assembly by David Walliams who will present them with their trophy, a trip to Disneyland Paris for their family and £500 of books for their school! David told Primary Times, “It is a real privilege to be named judge for this year’s National Young Writers’ Awards and I am so looking forward to reading what the brilliant brains of our country’s children come up with. To write is such a wonderful, creative outlet for people of all ages and competitions just like this one are a fantastic way of encouraging kids across the UK to take the leap and release their inner authors.” Pick up an entry form from your local Explore Learning centre and return the completed entry before Sunday 29 April or enter online at www.explorelearning.co.uk/youngwriters.

Education News

Forest School Pre-Prep and Prep School

At Forest Prep School, pupil outcomes drive everything they do. Teachers identify how the school can help pupils to explore their learning through an innovative curriculum. This helps them make the most of their whole school experience so that they become empathetic young people who are collaborative and concerned for society, as well as being confident, agile thinkers and doers who are enquiring, open-minded, risk-taking, creative and enterprising and not afraid to be hard-working individuals who value practice, perseverance and resilience. Forest Prep School sees personal and pastoral support and guidance as crucial to the success of all pupils. Teachers enjoy communicating what they are trying to achieve and how pupils and parents can participate. The school sees breadth as well as depth playing a significant part in developing the whole child and want their pupils to have the opportunity to participate in all aspects of what Forest has to offer. Forest encourages confidence in their pupils and demonstrates that they can trust the school to help them be successful. In the end, as they progress through the school, pupils become more than ready for the next stage in their education and are well on their journey to becoming the best version of themselves. For more information contact Jane O’Keeffe on 020 8509 6550 or jeokeeffe@forest.org.uk .

National Young Writers

The National Young Writers’ Awards returns with a bang as best-selling children’s author David Walliams is this year’s judge. The competition, organised by Explore Learning has been running for ten years and has inspired hundreds of thousands of children across the UK to put pen to paper.

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Education News

Woodford Green Preparatory School

Known locally as the “Red School” because of the scarlet uniforms, Woodford Green Preparatory School was founded in 1932 to provide a non-denominational Christian education for boys and girls aged from 3 to 11 years, a tradition that has been maintained throughout and is now enriched by a vibrant, multi-cultural environment. The school is highly regarded by parents as being successful in terms of ensuring children are safe, happy and well prepared for achieving excellent results in 11+ entrance examinations. Woodford Green aim to provide a learning community that lights the flame within and empowers all children to reach their educational and personal potential. Their vision is to be known as a school where every pupil is nurtured, encouraged to be curious and achieves their very best. A great education is one where children are given the skills and knowledge to see how things connect. Woodford Green’s curriculum is broad, exciting, and designed to adapt to the ever-changing world. They encourage all their boys and girls to have a ‘can-do’ attitude and place great emphasis on pupils being active investigators, whether in the classroom, using the latest technologies or exploring outdoors. Woodford Green want to ensure that each child’s curiosity and love of learning is harnessed, nurtured and developed, so that they are inspired and prepared for their life-long journey of discovery. The school crest reminds them that they are here to ignite a passion for learning and to ‘let each flame burn brighter.’ Information about admissions can be found on www.wgprep.co.uk or can be obtained from the Admissions Registrar admissions@wgprep. co.uk.

Schoolchildren Reuse Art at the Tate Modern

What’s crochet got to do with computers? In February around 120 pupils from London primary schools explored just that question at the Tate Modern as part of the Tate Exchange programme. Nine and ten year old pupils from London schools, including Handsworth Primary, were involved in the project. Working with London Connected Learning Centre, which supports schools to use digital technologies to enhance learning, the students responded to Tate Modern’s collection as part of an investigation into reusing, remaking and remixing. The children explored the similarities between computational thinking, programming and craft, such as crochet and knitting, through handson making using digital technologies and recycled materials. This year’s theme was ‘production’ and the pupils were encouraged to think about production and consumption and how digital technologies and innovation have changed the process of designing and making. Pupils looked at how the materials and processes are used in the works on display in the Tate gallery, why they have been used and how this might change the way they see the art. London Connected Learning Centre is a Tate Exchange Associate and it is the second year it has involved London schools in the programme. Find out more at www.londonclc.org.uk. To find out more about Tate Exchange visit www.tate.org.uk/tateexchange.

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19 Mar - 13 May ‘18

Children in schools across the country are getting ready to lead the charge against energy waste with the launch of SMART Squad, a set of free teaching resources designed to educate pupils about energy efficient behaviours. The curriculumlinked SMART Squad resources have been developed by Smart Energy GB, the voice of Britain’s smart meter roll out, and include a lesson presentation and activity sheets designed to help encourage energy saving behaviour in school and at home. The SMART Squad resources aim to help pupils learn about the importance of energy efficiency and how to be energy SMART: • Save: Don’t waste energy • Monitor: Keep an eye on how much you’re using • Advise: Help your family, friends, school and community to save energy • Record: Record what you see • Turn it off: Turn things off that you’re not using The SMART Squad programme demonstrates that, when given the right tools and knowledge, children can be a real catalyst for change when it comes to energy saving. For more information about how you can become part of SMART Squad, and to download the resources, visit www.smartenergygb.org.

The 2018 Winter Olympics and Paralympics have just finished in PyeongChang, South Korea, where a dynamic selection of British medal hopefuls competed on the world stage. Snowsport England aims to capture the buzz and help introduce more teachers and pupils to skiing and snowboarding through the ‘PyeongChang to Piste’ campaign and National Schools Snowsports Week. As part of the campaign, Snowsport England has released a dedicated school resources pack to boost engagement in snowsports. Designed to suit an audience aged between 7 and 14 years, the cross-curricular resource pack includes a series of activities involving discussion, research, a quiz and a creative competition where children can get arty and submit their own skis or snowboard graphic. Teachers are encouraged to enter their class’ designs for a chance to win some fantastic snowsport prizes. ‘PyeongChang to Piste’ (www. pyeongchangtopiste. org.uk) will also feature events and taster sessions run by various clubs and slopes throughout the country. Snowsport England has confirmed dates for their National Schools Snowsport Week (www. nssw.co.uk), which will run from Monday 23 until Sunday 29 April, just weeks after the conclusion of the Winter games. Dry and indoor slopes and clubs are set to run free or heavily discounted activities throughout the week, aimed at giving young people from all types of backgrounds the chance to try skiing or snowboarding.

Education News

PyeongChang to Piste Resources

Switch Children onto Energy Efficiency

Kumon’s maths and English study programmes work throughout the year to ensure your child is constantly learning and developing their ability. Contact your local Instructor for a free assessment.

Chigwell Chingford Clayhall Higham Hill Ilford, Seven Kings Stratford Wanstead

012 7950 6148 020 8501 0297 020 8270 3507 019 9262 3221 020 8598 8855 017 0837 5345 020 8491 8261

School stops over Easter, learning doesn’t have to kumon.co.uk

Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.

19 Mar - 13 May ‘18

Out of Schoo Be Part of the Greatest Show

CO󰈲󰈲󰇴󰇴󰉋󰉋T󰈽󰈽󰈜󰈜I󰈮󰈮󰈯󰈯! Come & have FU󰈰󰈰 with us by winning a

F󰈤󰈤E󰉋󰉋 󰈟󰈟󰈓󰈓M󰈲󰈲E󰈣󰈣 W󰉋󰉋󰉈󰉈󰈶󰈶 A󰈙󰈙 B󰉝󰉝󰈤󰈤󰈣󰈣󰉚󰉚CU󰉍󰉍󰉝󰉝󰈟󰈟!

Name: ................................................................. Phone: .......................................... Email: .............................................................................................. Age: ..................

TO : ER ENT 󰈓󰈓󰈣󰈣 IN

Deadline for entries is 15th June 2018 and the winner will be drawn on 18th June 2018.

CO󰈴󰈴󰈮󰈮 & 󰉀󰉀I󰈟󰈟 BI󰈴󰈴󰈳󰈳Y 󰉋󰉋󰈯󰈯D󰈠󰈠! F󰈤󰈤I

JUMP! Primary Times is purely the advertiser for this competition and is in no way associated with Barracudas and the services it provides. Tick if you do not wish to be added to the Barracudas database for marketing purposes. Terms & Conditions 1st prize is for a week booking and 2nd prize is for a two day booking at Barracudas camp between the dates 16th July – 24th August (dates may vary across camps). Travel to and from camp is not included. The child must be aged between 4.5 and 14 years. One entry per family. The week cannot split across more than one child or more than one week and cannot be used against an existing booking. Submission of entry must be made by an adult over the age of 18. If you require any further information please call us on 0845 123 5299.

w󰉒󰉒󰉓󰉓.ba󰈸󰈸󰈹󰈹󰈀󰈀c󰉊󰉊󰇷󰇷a󰈼󰈼.c󰈡󰈡.󰉊󰉊󰈔󰈔 0845 123 5299

19 Mar - 13 May ‘18

From 9 to 13 April, children aged 7-16 years will experience the closest thing to performing in PT Barnum’s circus show – minus the fire breathing and trapezing of course – at The Anna Fiorentini Easter Holiday School. This Easter School, inspired by the Golden Globe nominated musical The Greatest Showman, will see students explore a range of dance and musical genres, encouraging them to not only hone their performance skills but to express themselves, learn creatively and work in a team. The end of week showcase will impress family and friends. Leading the classes will be your own Greatest Showman, Mark Short, who has choreographed stars including Tina Turner, Peter Andre and Ant and Dec. He will be joined by Harveen Mann, a West End actress whose impressive repertoire includes Bend It Like Beckham and Lewis Cochrane who has recently finished a tour of Sister Act playing alongside Alexandra Burke. The award winning Anna Fiorentini Theatre & Film School is widely praised and respected for nurturing young talent and instilling confidence, self-esteem and personal wellbeing in its students. Apart from the Easter School, Taster Days for term time schools for children aged 4-18 can now be booked. Any student that joins the Hackney or Docklands branch in April will get to perform in the Hackney Empire Showcase Extravaganza in September. They also have branches in Greenwich and Camden. You’ll find more details at www.annafiorentini.com or for adults at www.stageandthecity.com

Aldersbrook Riding School

Aldersbrook Riding School has been a licensed riding school for over 40 years. The school has a small friendly yard with three qualified Riding Instructors and an excellent safety record. The riding school has a ‘state of the art’ indoor school as well as an outdoor menage. During the holidays, special activities are held including ‘Have your own Pony’ mornings and three and five day courses in the summer where the children can learn to look after the horses as well as ride them. Birthday parties can also be booked so that children can celebrate with friends and ponies by spending time grooming and riding them. Hats and boots can be borrowed free of charge. Unbooked sessions are available for under 8s every Sunday 9-10.30am and cost £15 per child. Other lessons are available to be booked for adults and children. For further information please visit the website at www.aldersbrookriding.co.uk or call on 020 8530 4648.You’ll find Aldersbrook riding school in Empress Avenue, off Aldersbrook Road, near City of London cemetery.

See in the Summer at Jigsaw

Now that we’ve come through the other side of what has felt like a never-ending winter chill, it’s time to ditch the scarf and dig out the sunglasses as thoughts turn towards a brand-new summer term at Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools. The last few months have been incredibly exciting for Jigsaw Arts with the launch of several new schools and awards recognition in the Forward Ladies National Awards 2017 and the Mumandworking Awards 2018. With more children attending Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools

Learn to Swim - Love to Swim

For more information on Jigsaw’s weekend drama, singing and dance classes for students aged 3-18, visit www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk or call 020 8447 4530 and secure a place for the summer term today.

www.lovetoswim.co.uk enquiries@lovetoswim.co.uk 020 3006 6189

Swimming Lessons in Royal Docks, E16 Tower Hamlets E1 4 children per class CALL NOW

Remember...Swimming is a great skill that will benefit you or your child for life!

HORSE RIDING

Join us at Aldersbrook Riding School, Empress Avenue, Manor Park, E12 5HW for some pony fun ! Available throughout the Easter holidays! • From 2 years old • All level of riders catered for • Have your own Pony mornings • Ride and grooms • River rides • Lessons • Birthday parties • Indoor & outdoor facilities • Friendly experienced staff • Block booking discounts available

020 8530 4648 www.aldersbrookriding.co.uk contact@aldersbrookriding.co.uk

Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools

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CONFIDENCE BOOSTING | FUN & INSPIRING Drama

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Ages 4 - 6 & 7-18

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EASTER SCHOOL & TASTER DAYS – BOOK NOW – Hackney

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020 7682 1403 | hello@annafiorentini.com www.annafiorentini.com Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

TWO WEEK TRIAL AVAILABLE. BOOK NOW!

020 8447 4530 www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk 19 Mar - 13 May ‘18

Out of School Activities

ol Activities

than ever before, now is the time to book a two-week trial and discover the unique benefits of the performing arts at a school near you.

What’s On

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

April a ride on the bottom of passing boats and ships. Ages 4+. For more information visit www.rmg.co.uk/ cuttysark

Thurs 5 Apr

Einstein’s Entertainers, Stepney City Farm, E1 3DG

11am-12noon. Easter holiday fun with a show of Farm-themed science experiments in the Classroom. For more information and to book email info@e-entertainers.co.uk

Monster Plant Pop Up, Wanstead Library, E11 2RQ

2.30-3.30pm. Create your own special plant to take home. Will you make a pretty flower or scary monster plant? Ages 5+. Free. For more information and to book call 020 8708 7400.

Family Fishing, Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre, Hornchurch, RM12 6DF

10am-12noon, 12noon-2pm and 2-4pm. Learn the Art of Fishing. All equipment will be provided but if you have your own feel free to take it along. Children over the age of 12 will need a 1-day licence from the post office. Ages 5-13. Charges apply. For more information visit www. essexwt.org.uk

Woodlands Fairies and Elves, Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering-atte-Bower, RM4 1QH

10.30am-12noon and 1-2.30pm. Hunt in the woods for elves and fairies. There will be games, activities and crafts for all ages. Ages 3+. Book on 01708 748 646. For more information visit www.essexwt.org.uk

ElectroCards, Goodmayes Library, Ilford IG3 9QB

2-4pm. Participate in an exciting family electronics workshop and make your own flashing card to take home. Ages 7-11. Free. Book in advance at the library. For more information visit www.redbridge. gov.uk

Fri 6 Apr

Easter Egg Hunt, Romford Shopping Hall, RM1 3AB

10am-4pm. Join the fun at Romford Shopping Hall for their annual Easter Egg Hunt.Visit the shops and find yummy sweets at each pick up point on the map. £3 per child which includes a face paint and a bag of sweets to take home. For more information visit www.facebook.com/ romfordshoppinghall

Pond Dipping, Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering-atteBower, RM4 1QH 10.30am-12noon and 1-2.30pm. Join in to uncover some watery wildlife, visit the Dragonfly Pond and use pond dipping nets to catch

underwater creatures – what will you find? Ages 5+. Book on 01708 748 646. For more information visit www. essexwt.org.uk

“

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

Stick and Fetch Investigate, Discover, Stratford, E15 4QZ

2pm. Join bestselling author Philip Ardagh and author-illustrator Elissa Elwick with their brand new chapter book series, Stick and Fetch Investigate. This event will be followed by a book signing. Ages 6+. For more information and to book visit www.discover.org.uk

Bug Hunting, Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre, Hornchurch, RM12 6DF

1.30-3.30pm. Go along and explore the different habitats at Hornchurch Country Park. Go on a Bug Hunt and find many of the insects that live in the Ingrebourne Valley. All equipment supplied. Ages 5+. Charges apply. Book on 01708 520 364. For more information visit www.essexwt.org.uk

Sun 7 Apr

Nordic Folk Stories, V&A Museum of Childhood, Bethnal Green, E2 9PA

2pm and 3pm. Join storyteller Nell Phoenix in the special story hut in the Century of the Child exhibition for some Nordic Folk fun. Dropin event for all ages. For more information visit www.vam.ac.uk/moc

Sat 7 – Sun 8 Apr

ToyCon UK, York Hall, Bethnal Green, E2 9PJ

The UK’s only dedicated designer toy convention, run by toy fans for toy fans! See the world of designer toys come to life once again, with products and exhibitors from around the world. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.toyconuk. com

Sun 8 Apr

Camp Craft and Spring Forage, Warren Pond, Chingford, E4 6BD

Learn how to safely use a knife and create a useful wooden utensil for camp. Ramble round the Forest and see what food the woods in spring can provide. Take along a packed lunch. Ages 6-12. For more information and to book visit www. cityoflondon.gov.uk/eppingforest

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

19 Mar - 13 May ‘18

Mon 9 Apr

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Everybuny Count! with Ellie Sandall, Discover, Stratford, E15 4QZ

2pm. Join author Ellie Sandall for an interactive workshop, craft your own bunny accessories and then recreate fun filled scenes from the book. This event will be followed by a book signing. Ages 4+. For more information and to book visit www. discover.org.uk

Buzzy Bees Week, The Mall, Walthamstow, E17 7JR

Take part in a Scarecrow and Bee Bunting workshop where you will help to design and decorate the space where the Buzzy Bees workshops will be taking place this week. Free, drop-in. For more information visit www.themall.co.uk/ walthamstow

Easter Bonnets and Craft, Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering-atte-Bower, RM4 1QH 11am-12noon and 1-2pm. Go along to the centre to create an Easter Bonnet and Easter themed crafts. Ages 3+. Book on 01708 748 646. For more information visit www. essexwt.org.uk

Mon 9 – Fri 13 Apr

Buzzy Bees Week, The Mall, Walthamstow, E17 7JR

To celebrate the installation of beehives on the Mall’s roof this Easter, the Centre, along with the team from secret seeds, will be hosting a “Busy Bee Week” putting on a selection of free children’s workshops, all bee related. For more information visit www.themall.co.uk/ walthamstow

Tues 10 Apr

A Tale of Everyday Superheroes with Carly Gledhill, Discover, Stratford, E15 4QZ

2pm. Meet Monty and Sylvester – the latest super heroes on the block. They’ve read the manual, they’ve got the outfits and now they are raring to go. A brilliantly original picture book about friendship and imagination. Followed by a book signing. Ages 4+. For more information and to book visit www.discover.org.uk

Buzzy Bees Week, The Mall, Walthamstow, E17 7JR

Today’s workshop activity is ‘Beegazzling’.You will craft things to wear and take home, inspired by bees. Free, drop in. For more information visit www.themall.co.uk/ walthamstow

Up, Up and Away, Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT 10am-12noon. Children aged 4-6 will enjoy two jam-packed hours of creative fun involving drama games, storytelling and craft activities. The session includes a ‘make to take home’. For more information and to book visit www.queens-theatre.co.uk

Past Playtimes, Valence House, Dagenham, RM8 3HT

11am-3pm. Have fun like a Roman and experience playtime for Victorian children. Find out what people used to do for fun and try out different games from the past. Free. Drop in. No booking required. For more information visit www.lbbd.gov.uk

Bee Happy, Valentines Mansion & Gardens, Ilford, IG1 4XA

11.30am-1pm. Learn about the wonderful world of bees and why they are so important, before going on a little bee spotting adventure in the gardens.You’ll also have the chance to get crafty in the exciting arts centre. Ages 5+. For more information and to book visit www. valentinesmansion.com

Tues 10 – Wed 11 Apr

Easter Holiday Activities, Thames Chase Community Forest, Upminster, RM14 3NS

10.30am-12.30pm. Make flowers and animals from willow, go for a walk to find different bark textures, plant a runner bean, use canes to make a maze.You can also explore the natural play trail or collect a brilliant Highway Rat activity pack. For more information visit www.thameschase. org.uk

Family Fun Days, The Engine House, Walthamstow Wetlands, N17 9NH

Tues 10 – Thurs 12 Apr Hide and Seek, Cutty Sark, Greenwich, SE10 9HT

11.30am and 2pm. Where are the animals hiding on Cutty Sark? Make your own animal hide and seek picture with pop-up interactives to take home with you and discover why the ship carried animals on her many voyages. Ages 4+. For more information visit www.rmg.co.uk/ cuttysark

Pattern Print Workshop, V&A Museum of Childhood, Bethnal Green, E2 9PA

Your family diary for March, April and May Wed 11 Apr

Hidden History, Waltham Abbey Gardens, EN9 1XQ

1-3pm. Join in an exciting afternoon full of activities that uncover the hidden history of Waltham Abbey and how we know about the past. Try your hand at ‘rubbish archaeology’ and enjoy an introduction to fire lighting. For more information and to book visit www.visitleevalley.org.uk

Buzzy Bees Week, The Mall, Walthamstow, E17 7JR

Today’s workshop activity is ‘Micro Growing’.You will learn how to grow in your home. Free, drop-in. For more information visit www.themall. co.uk/walthamstow

Spring Bonnets, Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre, Hornchurch, RM12 6DF

10am-3pm. Go along and have fun making your own Spring Bonnet. Ages 3+. Charges apply. Book on 01708 520 364. For more information visit www.essexwt.org.uk

Archaeology Explorer Adventure, Valence House, Dagenham, RM8 3HT

11am-12.30pm and 1.30-3pm. Become an archaeologist and discover some ancient treasures as you go behind the scenes in the museum store with this interactive exploration. Suitable for children aged 7-11. Advanced booking essential. For more information visit www.lbbd.gov.uk

Pond Dipping, RSPB Rainham Marshes Nature Reserve, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ

1.30-3pm. Grab a net, and investigate what creature you can find living in the ponds. All equipment will be provided. Taking place in the Woodland Discovery Zone. Call 01708 899 851 to book. For more information visit www.rspb.org.uk/ rainham

Thurs 12 Apr

Buzzy Bees Week, The Mall, Walthamstow, E17 7JR

Today’s workshop activity is ‘Taste Adventure Lab’.You will build confidence in discovering new flavours and textures. Free, drop-in. For more information visit www. themall.co.uk/walthamstow

Wild West, Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering-atteBower, RM4 1QH

10.30am-12noon. Join in this fun Wild West day, make a hobby horse, pan for gold, lasso your catch and have a go at archery. Dress up in your best cowboy outfit. Ages 5+. Book on 01708 748 646. For more information visit www.essexwt.org.uk

Spectacular Science Experiments, Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre, Hornchurch, RM12 6DF

10am-2.30pm. Have fun with science and conduct your very own experiments, including Bottle Rockets, Balloon Rocket Racing, Goo and more. Dress to suit the weather. Suitable for ages 5+. Book on 01708 520 364. For more information visit www.essexwt.org.uk

Easter on the Farm, Stepney City Farm, E1 3DG

The farm’s friends at Riverside Cares will be running an event for kids of all ages in the Classroom and on the Farm, including craft activities, sheep shearing demonstrations, spinning and knitting. For more information visit www.stepneycityfarm.org

Fri 13 Apr

Bat Box Building, Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre, Hornchurch, RM12 6DF 2-4pm. Go along to make a bat box to put up in your garden or donate to the country park. All materials and tools provided. Boxes limited so book early to avoid disappointment. Ages 5+. Book on 01708 520 364. For more information visit www. essexwt.org.uk

Buzzy Bees Week, The Mall, Walthamstow, E17 7JR

Today’s theme is ‘Wee Bee Celebrating’ – a day of games to celebrate our favourite stripy insects. Free, drop in. For more information visit www.themall.co.uk/walthamstow

Bear’s Adventure, Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Haveringatte-Bower, RM4 1QH

11am-12noon and 1-2pm. Follow bear’s adventure through the woods at your own pace and then venture back to the centre for craft activities. Ages 3+. Book on 01708 748 646. For more information visit www. essexwt.org.uk

Sat 14 Apr

Clay Potter’s Wheel, Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre, Hornchurch, RM12 6DF

10am-12.30pm. Try your hand at the Potter’s Wheel and make a great clay model as well. Ages 5+. Book on 01708 520 364. For more information visit www.essexwt.org.uk

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

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Family Day, Whitechapel Gallery, Aldgate, E1 7QX

Immersive theatre designers Hebe George and Zekan Cemal invite you to become an explorer. Join them to unearth hidden objects and artefacts. What curious things will you find? Free. For times, more information and to book visit www. whitechapelgallery.org

Nordic Folk Stories, V&A Museum of Childhood, Bethnal Green, E2 9PA

Sun 15 Apr

Mad Hatters Tea Party, Valentines Mansion, Ilford, IG1 4XA

11am-4pm. Step into the world of Alice in Wonderland at Valentines Mansion. With interactive outdoor theatre performances, craft activities, children’s rides, activity trails, movie and story time, and much more. There will also be prizes for children in ‘Alice in Wonderland’ fancy dress. To book visit www. valentinesmansion.com

A Walk in the Park, Gunpowder Park, Waltham Abbey, EN9 3GP

10.30am-12.30pm. Once used for munitions testing, today’s Gunpowder Park is now a tranquil place where people, wildlife and art can be found. Visit Swan and Pike Pool, a great place for a picnic, and Enfield Island, once a small arms factory. For more information and to book visit www. visitleevalley.org.uk

Wed 18 Apr

Anna Fiorentini Theatre & Film School Taster Day, St Lukes CE Primary School, E14 3EB

The perfect opportunity for potential students to try out all of the classes available with no obligation to join. Parents can also meet with the staff team and find out more about the programme and what the aims and objectives are within the forthcoming terms. To book visit www.annafiorentini.com

Sat 21 Apr

Go Wild Family Club, East Ham Nature Reserve, E6 6HN 12noon-2.30pm. Learn all about the different seasons, how the plants and trees grow throughout the year and see what the animals and minibeasts are up to. Meet at the visitor centre. Free. No need to book. For more information visit www.activenewham. org.uk

Saint George’s Dragon Egg Hunt, Romford Shopping Hall, RM1 3AB

10am-4pm. Calling all budding knights and princess to help hunt down Saint Georges missing dragon eggs. Go along to join the fun in fancy dress (optional).You may even bump into the dragon himself who will make appearances throughout the day. For more information visit www. facebook.com/romfordshoppinghall

What’s On

More What’s On

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

Jelly Roller Dragon, Ken Aston Square, Ilford, IG6 2EA

12noon-3pm. Children of all ages are invited to go along and operate the half dozen handles which launch the 12ft tall George the Dragon into a grand display of hand cranked contaptioneering. He plays music and blows bubbles. For more information visit www.redbridge.gov.uk

Punch and Judy Shows, Community Pitch, Ilford Town Centre, IG1

12noon-12.30pm, 1-1.30pm and 2.30-3pm. Join in for some traditional Punch and Judy Slapstick comedy. An entertaining show, sure to make the children laugh. Free. For more information visit www.redbridge. gov.uk

Bow Beasties, Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, E3 4PX

10.30am-12.30pm. Experience the magic of woodlands and wildlife with seasonal, outdoor, nature activities and games for children and families. Today’s theme is pond dipping and wild art. Ages 3-12. Meet at the Soanes Centre. For more information visit www.fothcp.org

St George’s Day Event, V&A Museum of Childhood, Bethnal Green, E2 9PA

11.30am-4.30pm. Join in for a day of English merriment to celebrate St George. Enjoy live song and dance traditions, storytelling, games, arts and craft activities. Drop-in event for all ages. For more information visit www.vam.ac.uk/moc

Sun 22 Apr

Family Bushcraft, WaterWorks Centre Nature Reserve, Leyton, E10 7QB

10am-3pm. As part of this challenge you’ll learn more about bushcraft, the skills needed to be self-sufficient in a wild environment and how to become a more confident wild camper. For more information and to book visit www.visitleevalley.org.uk

Open Day, Lambourne End, RM4 1NB

11am-4pm. Meet the farm animals, try pond dipping, enjoy a pony and cart ride, get adventurous crawling through the caves, across a low ropes course, kayaking and lots more. Charges apply. For more information visit www.lambourne-end.org.uk

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

19 Mar - 13 May ‘18

What’s On

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

April

Ages 5-10. Book in advance at the library. For more information visit www.redbridge.gov.uk

Thurs 26 Apr

Lee Valley Bug Club, Waltham Abbey Gardens, EN9 1XQ

Sat 28 Apr

The Little Mermaid, Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT 10am. Celebrated Essex storyteller Mike Dodsworth brings this popular story to life – creatively animating the world and characters with lots of imagination and fun. Ages 5-7. For more information and to book visit www.queens-theatre.co.uk

Sat 28 – Sun 29 Apr

Spring Diesel Gala, Epping Ongar Railway

This is the first of the railway’s ever popular Diesel Galas, where the home fleet, along with some interesting visiting locomotives, come out to be put through their paces over some of the most challenging gradients in preservation. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.eorailway.co.uk

Sun 29 Apr

Wild Weekend, The Engine House, Walthamstow Wetlands, N17 9NH

PJ Masks Owlette and Gekko Visit, Epping Ongar Railway

The first of the railway’s Character events for children, sees Owlette and Gekko pay a visit for the first time. The super heroes will be making personal appearances at intervals on each day. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.eorailway.co.uk

Sat 5 – Mon 7 May

VE Weekend, Royal Gunpowder Mills, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1JX

VE Weekend returns with fanfare to the Royal Gunpowder Mills as the historic Waltham Abbey attraction welcomes back its flagship event, inviting visitors to join in Victory in Europe Day celebrations and remembrance. For more information and to buy tickets visit www. royalgunpowdermills.com

Mon 7 May

May Day Festival, Stepney City Farm, E1 3DG

10am-4pm. Enjoy traditional music, dancing, crafts, food and drink all day. The farm will also be shearing the sheep ready for summer, and celebrating two very special birthdays – donkeys George and Dunstan are turning 20. For more information visit www.stepneycityfarm.org

Sat 12 May

Creepy Crawley Crafts, Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT

May

We’ve Got Rhythm!, Thames Chase Community Forest, Upminster, RM14 3NS

VeloBalance, Lee Valley VeloPark, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, E20 3AB

(Also 5-6, 8, 11-13, 15, 18-20 May) This session helps kids build confidence on a bike and gets them riding without stabilisers. Ages 2+. For more information and to book visit www.visitleevalley.org.uk/ velopark

Sat 5 May

Snack Attack, Fullwell Cross Library, Barkingside, IG6 2EA

10.30-11.30am. Have some fun making healthy snacks together. There will be recipe ideas and information about the Love Food, Hate Waste initiative too. Also happening at Redbridge Central Library at 2.30pm.

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Sat 5 – Sun 6 May

Tues 1 May

“

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

10am. Get crafty! Build, make and decorate in this hands-on fun packed creative craft workshop for children and their parents led by professional crafter Gemma Compton. Ages 5-7. For more information and to book visit www.queens-theatre.co.uk

2.30-4.30pm. Calling all youngsters! Take along your grandparents to an afternoon of 1940s jazz. There will be an opportunity to join in and have some fun and get to know this style of music. At 1.30pm join in a

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

19 Mar - 13 May ‘18

short free workshop to make some percussion instruments of your own. For more information visit www.thameschase.org.uk

Pedal Up Pump!, Lee Valley VeloPark, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, E20 3AB

(Also 19 May) These sessions will help young riders stand confidently on the pedals and learn how to negotiate the pump track safely, along with key bike handling techniques. Ages 7-12. For more information and to book visit www.visitleevalley.org. uk/velopark

Sat 12 – Sun 13 May

London Transport Weekend, Epping Ongar Railway

A celebration of all things London Transport. An intensive train service, hopefully featuring visiting locomotives with a London Transport theme, will operate. A bus rally will also take place as part of the event. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.eorailway.co.uk

Sun 13 May

The Covent Garden May Fayre and Puppet Festival, St Paul’s Church Garden, WC2E 9ED

Grand Procession around the neighbourhood 11am, Special Church Service 12noon, Shows and Stalls 12.30pm–5.30pm. Punch & Judy Professors and Puppeteers from all over the UK and abroad gather to perform and celebrate the first recorded sighting of Mr Punch in England by Samuel Pepys in May 1662. Free. For more information visit www.alternativearts.co.uk

Fri 18 May

Museums at Night, Bank of England Museum, EC2R 8AH

5.30-9pm. Enjoy a variety of gallery talks and chat to the gold and banknote experts. Members of the Museum and Archive teams will be revealing some unique and unseen objects from the Bank’s collection which visitors can handle. For more information visit www.bankofengland. co.uk/museum

Sat 19 May

Family Learning Activity, Tower Bridge Exhibition, SE1 2UP 10.30am-4pm. Go along and enjoy some fun, hands-on family activities at Tower Bridge. All activities are drop-in and are free with admission. Suitable for all ages but most appropriate for ages 6-10. For more information visit www.towerbridge. org.uk

Bow Beasties, Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, E3 4PX

10.30am-12.30pm. Experience the magic of woodlands and wildlife with seasonal, outdoor, nature activities and games for children and families. Today’s theme is whittling and worm charming. Ages 3-12. Meet at the Soanes Centre. For more information visit www.fothcp.org

Sun 20 May

Mwalimu Express, Rich Mix, E1 6LA

Easter Egg Hunt

2pm. A glorious culturally conscious afternoon for the whole family Easter Bunny Visitdance, featuring live music, cinema, Children’s Disco games, workshops and best of vibes. Free. For “The more Bunny information Hop”visit www.richmix.org.uk Facepainters

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Wild Weekend, The Engine House, Walthamstow Wetlands, N17 9NH

10am-3pm. From learning about the habitats on site to be inspired to make your own crafts, go along and have fun with all the family. Watch out for signs of Spring, take part in activities such as pond dipping or go on a nature trail. Free. For more information visit www.wildlondon. org.uk

Caribbean Workshop and Family Jamboree, Rich Mix, Bethnal Green, E1 6LA

11am. A fun and interactive performance workshop for families to enjoy together, exploring traditional and contemporary music and dance from the Caribbean diaspora; from folk-song and reggae to carnival and New Orleans parades. Free. For more information visit www.richmix.org.uk

See27 Peppa Pig28 & May George Sun – Mon 27 28 May Advert-PJMasks-003.pdf Peppa Pig && George, Epping at intervals Ongar Railway © ABD Ltd/Ent. One UK Ltd 2003.

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primarytimes.biz Follow us on Instagram - @primarytimesse

All your own work!

Daphne Pradeesh aged 9

Aise aged 7 lucky winner of a PS4 with Tad competitions in our February Half Term issue. The Congratulations to the following people who won and runners up prizes went to n etitio comp Vacher won the Jungle Bunch the Lost Explorer was Christopher Pearson. Roxy to Leeds Castle. Rose Emby. Chloe Prockter won an annual family pass Isobel Cross, Ruby Cornelius, Daisy Doe and Isabel d sets of Ross Welford books were won Theatre tickets were won by Olivia Brown. Signe If you would like to see d, Athena Crompton and Alina Ballard. -Woo Purdie e Ameli by Jacob Bowrah, Charlie Gasson, esh Prade e Daphn your work displayed was r and our older winne Aise aged 7 won our Annie Drawing competition here then just send us a page. this the artwork on aged 9. Well done to all our prize winners and enjoy

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

My Hobb ies by Yousuf Waheed I Love cricket, I feel so happy when I hit a wicket. Bowling is my favourite thin g, Bowling is giving the ball a ďŹ&#x201A;ing! I always hit a big six, I also like playing football And doing lots of kicks. Be ing striker is so much fun , Football makes the players run. I've even been to Lords wit h my ticket, So now you know my favour ite hobbies Are football and cricket!

Thank you to Fred Crouch for his colourful train, Yousuf Waheed for his clever poem, Rhea Patki for her cute summer scene and Suzannie Golding for her beautiful bird picture. We love seeing your work so do please keep sending it to us.