East London February Half Term 2018 Primary Times by Alison Watson

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IDE U NG O T’S A WH

for families with primary aged children

in East London February Half Term Edition • Issue 57 • 29 January - 18 March 2018

The Best Family Guide to What’s On

ANNA FIORENTINI THEATRE & FILM SCHOOL PERFORM IN OUR HACKNEY EMPIRE EXTRAVAGANZA JOIN US FOR SATURDAY OR EVENING CLASSES OR SHINE AT OUR EASTER SCHOOL

WWW.ANNAFIORENTINI.COM

Film Preview Guide Disney Pixar’s Coco

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

Early Man

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

Tad the Lost Explorer and the Secret of King Midas

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

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Monster Family

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

The Highway Rat

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

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

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

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

Dear Readers

r though ppy Christmas and New Yea I hope you all had a very Ha solutions Re r Yea w Ne r you are . How it seems a while ago now to start but my of them? My diet has yet going? Have you kept any at least I can so g rkin wo is n er more ofte resolution on seeing my sist tick one off. really starting year it looks like events are After a quiet start to the new nds of usa tho e you look through the rs trying to happen so do make sur hou nd spe y The iam have found. the let listings that Hayley and Mir do ase and things to do so ple es. to discover places to go Tim ry ma Pri read about them in organisers know that you ple of months are forward to over the next cou Some of the things to look cake is lemon pan ite our y 13 February. My fav Pancake Day on Tuesda lentine’s Day on ? Then the next day is Va and sugar, what do you like to get chocolates or Will you be lucky enough Wednesday 14 February. February. 2018 is 16 ay w Year is on Frid flowers? Then Chinese Ne to our Chinese án jíxiáng or the Year of the Dog. Gôuni Day is on r’s the Dog year. Finally Mo readers - Good luck for this appreciated ays alw is t sen pre ade card or Sunday 11 March. A handm so get drawing now! s so do look out e fantastic competition As always we have som they close. We e you enter them before for them and make sur give us your n’t do won them if you can’t let you know you’ve too! If you want m the e lud inc sure you contact details so make d them in the sen t competition then jus to enter more than one tely. Please ara sep m the d n’t have to sen though. same envelope, you do ries r ent the competition on you do include the name of rch so enjoy ter magazine on 19 Ma We’ll be back with our Eas the next half term.

Peter and the Primary

Times team

Contents

inside this issue.... News................................................... 4 What’s On Diary.................................. 6 Family Theatre.................................... 8 Whatever the Weather.............................11 Time to Party........................................ 14 Education News................................. 17 Competitions...................................... 21 All About You!................................... 23

The Primary Times Team:

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

Primary Times in East London distributes more than 53,250 copies seven times a year and is part of a national network distributing more than 2.7 million copies in 59 regions across the UK & Ireland Primary Times is now printed on recycled paper Recycle throughout, from 0% d 10 100% postconsumer waste, made in Europe by a paper mill SC F that is certified and E c ola b el P E supports responsible forestry. F

Tel: 020 8318 0400 Email: office@primarytimes.biz Website: www.primarytimes.co.uk Twitter: @PT_LondonSandE Instagram: @primarytimesse

... the UK’s biggest free ‘What’s On’ magazine for parents.

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

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.

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

News

An International Dining Experience

If you love great food and don’t want to spend a fortune, you’ll love JRC Buffet. With hundreds of freshly prepared dishes from all over the world, you’ll find all your old favourites as well as new dishes for you to enjoy. Families love visiting JRC Buffet as there’s something for everyone – it’s also a great opportunity for parents to encourage their children to be adventurous and try new flavours. Even the fussiest eater will find new dishes they’ll love. With a wide selection of Live Cooking Stations, where expert chefs prepare dishes right in front of your eyes, it’s a dining experience like no other.

Chrysalis Care Independent Fostering Agency

Chrysalis Care recently celebrated 20 years of providing safe and nurturing foster homes for children and young people across London, Kent, Essex, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire. Chrysalis Care was founded by former foster carers, Lynda and Lou Boden in 1997. Their aim was to transform the lives of children and young people by providing foster care of the highest quality. Chrysalis Care have developed a family culture, maintaining an intimacy which spans the whole organisation, with two of the Boden daughters directing the company and many foster carers, approved in those early days, still actively fostering with Chrysalis Care. If you are already fostering, are thinking of fostering, or would like to learn more about becoming a foster carer, Chrysalis want to hear from you. After more than 20 years, they have lots of expertise to share. As a Chrysalis Care foster carer, you receive 24 hour 365 days a year support, monthly supervision with a qualified social worker, access to online and offline training and support from Chrysalis’ own Children’s Services Department.You will become part of a valuable team of foster carers, empowered to develop the skills and knowledge to become outstanding foster carers for children and young people aged 0-18 years from a range of backgrounds and circumstances. To find out more, please contact Chrysalis Care to speak with one of their knowledgeable staff members on 020 8298 2800, by emailing info@chrysaliscare.org or by visiting www.chrysaliscarefostering.org.

Crowlands Golf Centre Crowlands Golf Centre boasts a free putting green, water driving range, 9 hole golf course and bar/restaurant facility. Crowlands also has 4 PGA professionals on hand who can provide golf lessons or advice on purchasing your equipment from their well stocked shop. As well as offering full golf facilities, Crowlands has a fantastic restaurant overlooking the tranquil lake. They offer freshly cooked food 6 days a week from Tuesday to Sunday including their delicious Sunday roasts. Crowlands are offering Primary Times readers a special Sunday roast discount where adults can eat for just £7 and children for just £4. To get this special discount, simply cut out and bring the advert on page 7 with you. If you’re looking for a unique venue to celebrate that special occasion then you should look no further than Crowlands as they also have a fabulous function room. They can cater for up to 100 people and you can be sure the team will make sure you have an amazing time. Make sure you book your Sunday lunch table in advance on 020 8984 7373. For more information visit, www.crowlandsheath.co.uk. 4

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

If you aren’t too full from trying all the main dishes, you will love the wide selection of mouth-watering desserts, all beautifully presented. Visitors young and old love dipping marshmallows and fresh fruit into the milk chocolate fountain. This year the selection at JRC gets even better, as there are even more dishes available at the European section. There are also more dishes added for festivals throughout the year. For example, at Chinese New Year you’ll find delicious Chinese buns and dumplings. Don’t forget you can also enjoy as much food as you like for one set price. To hear about the latest news and offers, visit www.jrc-globalbuffet. com and sign up to the newsletter.

Calling all Budding Writers!

WICKED, the award-winning West End musical that tells the incredible untold story of the witches of Oz, together with the National Literacy Trust, has announced the eighth year of the prestigious WICKED Young Writer Awards. The closing date is 12 March so enter as soon as you can! Details can be found at www.WickedYoungWriterAwards.com. As in previous years, entrants can enter one of five different age categories; 5-7yrs, 8-10yrs, 11-14yrs, 15-17yrs and18-25 yrs. Pieces of original writing can be submitted, either individually or as part of a school group, until 12 March. The launch of the Awards was announced at Leys Primary School in Dagenham. Leys Primary School was chosen to host the launch having won the prize for entering the highest number of submissions to the 2017 awards, 160 in total, and hosted a bespoke WICKED writing workshop with children’s author Sam Gayton with the added surprise of a musical performance of ‘The Wizard and I’ for the whole school by cast member Laura Pick. The overall winners from each category will win a VIP family experience to the West End production of WICKED, including an exclusive backstage tour, £50 book/eBook tokens, the 5-7yrs, 8-11yrs and 11-14yrs categories will win £100 worth of books for their school library donated by Hachette Children’s Books. In addition the 5-7 age category winners will receive a creative writing workshop for their class. The three schools with the highest number of entries will receive a bespoke writing workshop at their respective schools. All finalists’ entries will be printed in the WICKED Young Writer Awards anthology. The WICKED Young Writer Awards raises money for the National Literacy Trust, who campaign to improve public understanding of the vital importance of literacy. Exclusive teachers’ resources can be found online including tips for inspiring and encouraging writing in the classroom.

Students aged 7-18 who join the Hackney or Docklands branch of the award winning Anna Fiorentini Theatre & Film School between now and April, will have the opportunity to perform in an exciting showcase taking place on Saturday 15 September at Hackney Empire. This showcase, which is put on every two years, is an amazing experience for any young person as they perform to a sell-out audience of over 1000 including family, friends, casting directors, TV/ Film directors and celebrities. No experience is necessary. That is why pupils go to Anna Fiorentini - to learn and have fun. Throughout term times students follow a parttime timetable of drama/film, singing and dance all taught by leading industry professionals. Although the school boasts about the professional work many of its students have gained via its agency, including leading roles on TV, Film and on the West End stage, it is just as proud of the academic achievements that its students attain due to increased confidence, self-esteem and a new thirst for learning. To support their ethos of inclusivity, the school holds a number of fundraising events to help those that may struggle with fees. To book your obligation free taster day for the term starting in April contact hello@annafiorentini.com. They also have branches in Greenwich and Camden and provide Easter and Summer Schools. See the website www.annafiorentini.com for details. Jealous? Stage & the City, www.stageandthecity.com, offers fun adult classes with all profits going to the Fiorentini Foundation providing bursaries for the kids.

‘Fun for All the Family at Supernova Run

Expect to be swept away on a distinctly magical experience at the London Supernova 5K. The enchanting run takes place at the iconic Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park on Saturday 3 March at 7pm. As dusk falls over the London skyline, runners will set off on a jawdropping route which takes in the ArcelorMittal Orbit, Stratford Waterfront, London Aquatics Centre and of course the Olympic Park Stadium itself. The emphasis is on colour and sound around the route, providing runners and spectators alike with an unforgettable experience. Groups of families and friends will descend on Olympic Park flaunting their best fluorescent clothing and accessorize with anything that glows or flashes to create a stunning visual spectacle. The sell-out event attracts participants of all fitness abilities, from experienced runners to families who prefer to stroll around the course taking everything in, with the aim of bringing families and friends together to do something a little bit different but a lot of fun. Standard entries for the London Supernova 5K are open and start from £15.50. Under 5s go free. To enter visit www.supernovarun. com. Photo credit: Lesley Martin

Traditional Kent Oast House Weekend Treat B&B Set in the heart of the peaceful village of Shipbourne, near Tonbridge, this traditional roundel oast house is totally self-contained with its own private entrance. Guests will find a generous continental breakfast provided for them in the oast kitchenette. Price for double occupancy from £70 per night (incl breakfast)

BearManorOast@hotmail.co.uk 01732 811 256 www.bearmanoroast.co.uk

If you had booked this space 54,000 families could be reading all about your business... Don’t delay, call Sarah-Jane today

020 8318 0400

February Fun in Redbridge Libraries 10-16 February

Go Green Week

News

Be Part of a Showcase Extravaganza

All ages

Learn something new about recycling, bring along unwanted pieces of fabric and empty milk or juice cartons to recycle them into something new! Free, booking essential at the library.

13-16 February

Mr and Mrs Polluto

Theatre show using puppetry and live music about a family who never recycle and throw all their rubbish into the garden! Plus make your own puppets to take home after. £2. Advanced booking required

4 yrs+

Wednesday 14 February

Magic with Mr Kinder 3 yrs+ South Woodford Library & Gym £2. Advanced booking required

14-17 February

Celebrate Chinese New Year Free, just turn up

5 yrs+

Plus book swaps, family learning and educational workshops, fun drop ins and much more!

www.redbridge.gov.uk/libraries

Jet2holidays Launches the Ultimate School Trip

Jet2holidays are giving schools across the UK a chance of winning a place for an entire class of 9-13 year olds on the Ultimate School Trip. The competition was launched at Wimbledon Chase Primary School by Kids TV presenters, Dick and Dom, who will host the trip. The duo have announced the trip through a series of roadshows in its nine bases across the UK, one of which took place in Dagenham. In total, nine classes and their teachers will spend a long weekend (Friday 20 Sunday 22 April) at Sol Katmandu Park & Resort in Majorca where they will take part in fun educational workshops with celebrity hosts. In addition to an educational trip of a lifetime, winning classes will get to experience a range of one-off memories such as VIP send offs at the airport, a welcome dinner with celebrities, and the ultimate school disco and show. To enter, pupils are challenged to jet-power their imagination and produce their own promotional piece for Sol Katmandu Park and Resort, whether that be a poster, poem, song or video. The judges, including Dick and Dom, will create a shortlist of five schools in each of Jet2holidays’ nine airport regions, which will then go to a public vote, with the final nine class winners announced on Tuesday 13 March. All 45 shortlisted schools will receive £1,000 worth of school equipment vouchers. Entries must be submitted by Wednesday 28 February. For more details and to enter, visit ultimateschooltrip. jet2holidays.com. 29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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

Every Sat

Framed Film Club, Barbican Centre, EC2Y 8DS Family audiences can enjoy the latest and greatest films from all over the world, including special shorts programmes. On the last Sat of every month young audience members can explore film through all of the art forms with high-quality participatory arts activities. To book visit www. barbican.org.uk

January Wed 31 Jan

Story Time, South Woodford Library & Gym, E18 2QS 4pm. Go along and listen to a story after school. Free, just turn up. For more information call 020 8708 9067.

February Thurs 1 Feb

Harry Potter Book Night, Selected Libraries in Redbridge Calling all Wizards and Muggles! Don’t miss this magical Harry Potter Book Night event where you can enrol for the Sorting Ceremony or take part in a variety of activities. Don’t forget to go along in fancy dress. Book in advance at the library. For times and a list of participating libraries visit www.redbridge.gov.uk

Thurs 1 – Wed 28 Feb Epping Gothic, The View, Chingford, E4 7QH

(Excluding Mondays) 10am-5pm. Go along to this exhibition of Forestthemed paintings and prints by Emily Ault. Free. For more information visit www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

Sat 3 Feb

Make your Own Wormery, Victoria Park, E3 5TB 10.30am-12.30pm. Join the community park rangers to create your own wormery that can be used

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

to recycle your waste food and make a superb fertiliser for your flowers. Book on 020 7364 4504. For more information email victoriapark@ towerhamlets.gov.uk

Chinese New Year Extravaganza, Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT 2.30pm and 6.30pm. A unique and exciting cultural spectacle featuring a team of performers showcasing incredible Chinese performing arts. Great fun for all the family. For more information and to book visit www. queens-theatre.co.uk

Storytelling with Clay Modelling, Redbridge Central Library, Ilford, IG1 1EA 2-3pm. Join Gurmit Kaur as she reads her children’s book The Big Beautiful Light and Me. Children will have the chance to use clay modelling to create an animal of their choice to take home after the storytelling. Free just turn up. For more information call 020 8708 2414.

Harry Potter Interactive Experience, Fullwell Cross Library, Barkingside, IG6 2EA 1.30-3.30pm. Ever wanted to be wizard at Hogwarts? Now’s your chance to take on the role. Suitable for 9 to 14 year olds. Book in advance at the library. For more information visit www.redbridge. gov.uk

Room for Art, Whitechapel Gallery, Aldgate, E1 7QX 12noon-4pm. Work with architecture educationists MATT+FIONA to explore skeleton, scale, structure, and skin. Embellish a collaborative installation and take away your own miniature habitable space. Free. For more information and to book visit www.whitechapelgallery.org

Sat 3 – Sun 4 Feb

Zodiac Zoo, Cutty Sark, Greenwich, SE10 9HT 11.30am-1.30pm and 2-4pm. Learn how to roll, loop, curl and twist paper in this Chinese Zodiac-themed paper quilling workshop to celebrate

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

”

Chinese New Year. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.rmg.co.uk/cutty-sark

Sun 4 Feb

A Walk in the Park, Waltham Abbey Gardens, EN9 1XQ 10.30am-12.30pm. Once one of the largest Augustinian abbeys in the country, with information panels all around the site to bring its history to life, this scenic and social walk is great for all - including the dog. For more information and to book visit www.visitleevalley.org.uk

Sunday Open House, The Ragged School Museum, E3 4RR 2-5pm. Step through the door and explore the history of the East End.You can also attend a lesson in the Victorian Classroom and experience what it was like to go to school in Victorian times. For more information visit www. raggedschoolmuseum.org.uk

Kids Club, The Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, RM1 3RL 11am-5pm. Come rain or shine pop down to The Liberty Kids Club for some fantastic activities that offer fun, learning and creativity. Ages 6 months-10 years. For more information visit www.theliberty. co.uk

Wild Weekend, The Engine House, Walthamstow Wetlands, N17 9NH 10am-3pm. Celebrate World Wetlands Day by visiting Walthamstow Wetlands and enjoy a fun family day. Create your own Wetlands scene, paint amazing fish and have a go at pond dipping. For more information visit www. wildlondon.org.uk

Tues 6 Feb

Forest School, Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering–atteBower, RM4 1QH (Also 13 and 20 Feb) 3.45-4.45pm. Gain skills and work towards achieving confidence in the outdoors. Take part in den building, rope work, bushcraft skills and tool work,

woodland crafts and explore wildlife. Ages 5+. Book on 01708 748 646. For more information visit www. essexwt.org.uk

Wed 7 – Sun 18 Feb

Imagine Children’s Festival, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX Go along for 12 days of jam-packed Half Term fun in a festival run by kids for kids. Enjoy the best children’s theatre, literature and music, with plenty of workshops and free activities for children up to 12 years old. To view the programme of events visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Sat 10 Feb

Chinese New Year Event, V&A Museum of Childhood, Bethnal Green, E2 9PA 11.30am-4.30pm. Join in to celebrate Chinese New Year of the Dog with instrumental song and dance performances, Chinese opera mask making, martial arts demonstrations and tea ceremonies. Free, drop in event for all ages. For more information visit www.vam.ac.uk/moc

Mini Maestro Family Concert, St Martin in the Fields, WC2N 4JJ 4.30-5.30pm. There are lots of gems to enjoy in this feast of Handel: vivacious violins and a champion cello for starters. For more information and to book visit www.stmartin-inthe-fields.org

London Children’s Book Swap, Discover, Stratford, E15 4QZ 1-4.30pm. Take along an old favourite to Discover, and swap it for a brand new story, completely free. Then write your own story for Hootah before you go home. For more information visit www.discover.org.uk

Discover London’s Children’s Book Swap, St Hilda’s East Community Centre, E2 7EY 11am-3pm. Rich Mix is out and about at St Hilda’s East Community Centre, so take along an old book to the bookswap and go home with a brand new story. Free. Suitable for all ages. For more information visit www. richmix.org.uk

London Children’s Book Swap, Libraries in Redbridge Take along an old book and pick a different one from the selection to take home for free. There will also be a family session to create your own book. Free, just turn up. For times and a list of participating libraries visit www.redbridge.gov.uk

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

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29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Family Theatre

17 Mar

Stratford Circus

The Family Clown Show The show’s visual comedy and use of nonsensical language allows it to be understood by all, making it enjoyable for the whole family. Ages 3-8.

24 Mar

Zoom!

Family Theatre Broadway Barking Box Office: 020 8507 5607 8 Feb

Tom Thumb

Performed entirely on and under a kitchen table this wee wonder of a show is full of Lyngo Theatre’s magic with feathery spinning birds, a flying house and a portable forest. Ages 3+.

15 Mar

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Don’t miss your chance to see this spectacular ballet, billed as a wonderful treat for young and old, lovers of dance, music and sheer theatrical magic.

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.

Box Office: 020 7709 8900 www.halfmoon.org.uk 1 – 2 Feb

All Hail the Snail (and other creatures)

(Also 15 – 17 Feb) Join poet John Hegley as he takes you on a humorous journey through his living library of poems, songs, stories and animal drawings. Ages 7+.

3 Feb

Little Mochi Man

Join Little Mochi Man on his adventures as he travels from the snowy mountains of Hokkaido, to the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, meeting many wondrous Enjoy creatures and the show! characters along the And don’t way. Ages 3-7.

forget to say you saw it in

Primary Times!

Kenneth More Ilford Box Office: 020 8553 4466 14 – 15 Mar

Peppa Pig’s Adventure

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

Hackney Empire E8 Box Office: 020 8985 2424 10 – 11 Feb

Peppa Pig’s Adventure

With lunch-boxes packed and Daddy Pig driving the bus, Peppa and friends are excited about their outdoor adventure, full of games, laughter and live music.

Half Moon Young People’s E1

9 – 10 Feb

Bear and Butterfly

Bear fears he will lose his friend but, as if by magic, Caterpillar grows and stretches and from the leaves emerges a beautiful butterfly. Can Bear come to terms with this new version of his friend? Ages 4-7.

1 – 3 Mar

Penguins

Lauretta’s wheelchair is rusty, old and slow. She wants new wheels that are slick and fast. Zoom! follows Lauretta through her chaotic journey, where near disaster wheels around to speedy heroics. Ages 3-7.

Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch Box Office: 01708 443 333 3 Feb

Chinese New Year Extravaganza

A unique and exciting cultural spectacle featuring a team of performers showcasing incredible Chinese performing arts. Great fun for all the family.

17 Feb

Trevor Cline’s Amazing Magic and Balloons

Be amazed and entertained with wonderful magic and awesome balloons from one of the UK’s finest magicians and balloon artists. Amazement, fun and laughter guaranteed.

3 Mar

Living Things Wildlife Show A great fun and informative show. Go along and see how animals behave in the wild, watch lizards catch their prey, see sugar gliders glide and so much more.

17 Mar

Comedy Magic Show with Marko Sparko

A comedy magic show with puppets and balloons with one of Essex’s most popular children’s entertainers. Featuring Chico the Mind Reading Monkey and the Talking Picture.

A unique and engaging show for children about friendship, fun, identity and the everchanging meaning of family. Ages 3+.

Redbridge Drama Centre

10 Mar

Join poet John Hegley as he takes you on a humorous journey through his living library of poems, songs, stories and animal drawings. Ages 7+.

A Tiger’s Tale

A fantastical new production by the award winning playwright Mike Kenny, based on the extraordinary story of Fenella, the Holmfirth Tiger, featuring a high spirited balancing act of circus, puppetry, live music and song. Ages 4+.

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Box Office: 020 8708 8803 6 Feb

All Hail the Snail (and other creatures)

Box Office: 020 8279 1080 2 – 3 Feb

Hush-a-Bye

An interactive, multi-sensory production for the very young, with live music, puppets and an enchanting environment. Created by Oily Cart, a theatre company renowned for their innovation. Ages 3-5.

3 Mar

Tidy Up

Inspired by the child’s desire to create order, patterns and systems, this show is a witty and uplifting journey discovering if chaos and order can ever live side-by-side. Ages 3+.

21 – 22 Mar

Pulse

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+.

Thameside Grays Box Office: 03453 005 264 13 Feb

Treasure Island

With new songs, puppets, humour, drama and action Treasure Island will have a family audience laughing, cheering, singing and holding their breath all the way to the exciting ending. Ages 4-10.

20 – 21 Feb

I Believe in Unicorns

This intimate show is set in a library full of books that hold more than stories within their pages. It is a tale of the power of books, and the bravery of a young boy called Tomas. Ages 6+.

Greenwich Theatre Box Office: 020 8858 7755 9 Feb

Boys Don’t Through a series of funny, familiar and sometimes heartbreaking stories of boys in the emotional spotlight, this spoken word show offers the possibility of more open communication for everyone. Ages 8-12.

10 Feb

The Enormous Turnip One Moment In Time presents their own version of this classic folk tale, with a magical twist. Featuring beautifully handcrafted puppets and sets, storytelling, live music, songs and lots of joining in. Ages 3-8.

an enlightening running experience

UNDER 5s GO FREE!

An enchanting night-time 5k for all the family at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Saturday 3rd March 7pm

WWW.SUPERNOVARUN.COM

29 Jan - 18 Mar â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;18

What’s On

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

February Sat 10 – Sun 11 Feb

Opening Weekend, Lee Valley Park Farms, Waltham Abbey, EN9 2EF 10am-5pm. Go along and see what’s new as the farm open the gates for the start of the 2018 season. A great family fun day out including talks on the animals, animal petting, falconry displays and face painting. For more information and to book visit www. visitleevalley.org.uk

Kids for a Quid this February Half Term, Epping Ongar Railway Keep the kids entertained over the Half Term holiday when the railway’s child tickets are just £1! There will be a lovely buffet at North Weald Station and a small sweet and cake shop at Ongar - but with big tables on the trains you can also take along an ‘indoor’ picnic. To book visit www.eorailway.co.uk

Sat 10 – Fri 16 Feb

Off the Page, Onto the Stage, V&A Museum of Childhood, Bethnal Green, E2 9PA 11am-4pm. Celebrating the final weeks of the Michael Morpurgo: A Life Time in Stories exhibition, be inspired by his stories, work with set designers and puppeteers to bring stories to life. Free Drop-in activities. Workshops and Films – booking required. For more information visit www.vam.ac.uk/moc

Go Green Week, Redbridge Libraries Go along to a workshop for families with a green theme and have some fun learning something new about everything to do with recycling. Free, booking essential at the library. Ages 5+. For more information and to find a list of times and participating libraries visit www.redbridge.gov.uk

Sat 10 – Sun 18 Feb

February Half Term Events, Discover, Stratford, E15 4QZ During half term go along to Discover to enjoy a film screening of The Gruffalo’s Child and join in some fantastic author and illustrator events. To view the full programme of events and to book visit www.discover.org.uk

Mayhem in the Mad Lab, Royal Gunpowder Mills, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1JX Go along to the Mad Lab to try some great take home activities and learning activities where you can get messy and learn about the science behind these experiments. There will also be interactive science shows at 11.40am, 1.40pm and 3.40pm. To buy tickets visit www. royalgunpowdermills.com

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Mon 12 Feb

Soup Making, Victoria Park, E3 5TB 10.30am-12.30pm. Learn how to make some delicious winter warming soup in the special kitchen in the park. To book call 020 7364 4504. For more information visit www. towerhamlets.gov.uk

Have your Say, Museum of London Docklands, E14 4AL

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dressed up in costumes. Ages 5+. To book visit www.valentinesmansion. com

Forest Mondays, Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering– atte-Bower, RM4 1QH

12noon and 2.30pm. Think about what you would change in the world and create your own protest banner to support positive changes in our society. Ages 5+. Free, drop in. For more information visit www. museumoflondon.org.uk/museumlondon-docklands

1-3pm. The session is based outdoors in the woods, where children 5+ can take part in den building, rope work, bushcraft skills and tool work, woodland crafts and explore wildlife. Book on 01708 748 646. For more information visit www.essexwt.org.uk

Surprising Superheroes, Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT

Paw Patrol, ArcelorMittal Orbit, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, E20 2AD

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

Love a Bookworm, Gants Hill Library, Ilford, IG2 6LA 10.30am-11.30am. Children will use their imagination to create and decorate bookmarks to use while reading their favourite books and create clay characters from a favourite book. Book in advance. For more information call 020 8708 9274.

In a Heartbeat, Centre of the Cell, Whitechapel, E1 2AT 2-4.15pm. A fun and interactive show all about the human heart, blood and circulation. It looks at what the heart does and what you can do to keep it healthy. Ages 8-12. For more information and to book visit www. centreofthecell.org

Storytelling with John Kirk, Valentines Mansion & Gardens, Ilford, IG1 4XA 11am and 2pm. Say “Gong Hey Fat Choy!” to the Year of the Dog with storyteller John Kirk at Valentines Mansion as he presents a series of stories inspired by the story of the Chinese Zodiac. Feel free to get

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

Mon 12 – Tues 13 Feb

The UK’s most exciting viewing platform will welcome two of the PAW Patrol’s top pups, police dog Chase and fire pup Marshall. Go along to see them both at regular intervals during the day. For more information and to book visit www. arcelormittalorbit.com

Strike a Light, Museum of London Docklands, E14 4AL 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. Join Mary Driscoll, strike leader, docker’s wife and respectable shopkeeper, as she recounts her struggles and successes as a match girl. Ages 5+. Free, drop in. For more information visit www. museumoflondon.org.uk/museumlondon-docklands

Mon 12 – Wed 14 Feb Laser Tag in the Forest, The View, Chingford, E4 7QH

11am-4pm. Join in some futuristic fun for all the family. Ages 6+. To book call 08006 894 715. For more information visit www.cityoflondon. gov.uk

Mon 12 – Fri 16 Feb

The Adventures of Toad, Bank of England Museum, EC2R 8AH

February Half Term Smash Camps, Stubbers Adventure Centre, Upminster, RM14 2TY Children can take part in lots of fun activities this Half Term such as Laser Tag, Quad Biking, 4X4 Driving, Climbing and much more. For more information and to book visit www. smashcamps.co.uk

Tues 13 Feb

St Valentine’s Love Heart Quest, Victoria Park, E3 5TB 12noon-3pm. Take along your team to join in for a special Valentine’s Day hunt around Victoria Park. Solve clues to find as many love hearts as you can. Find all the hearts to reveal a secret message and an extra special prize. To book call 020 7364 4504. For more information visit www. towerhamlets.gov.uk

Floating Protest, Museum of London Docklands, E14 4AL 11am and 1.30pm. Be inspired by protests that have taken place on the Thames. Fashion an origami boat with banners and flags to encourage change in London. Ages 5+. Free, drop in. For more information visit www.museumoflondon.org.uk/ museum-london-docklands

The Great Spitalfields Pancake Race, Dray Walk, Old Truman Brewery, E1 6QL 12.30pm. Teams of 4 will gather to compete for the honour of becoming this year’s pancake race champions. Event in support of London’s Air Ambulance. Participation is free. Application forms available from info@alternativearts.co.uk. For more information visit www.alternativearts. co.uk

Family Day, Stratford Circus Arts Centre, E15 1BX Explore the dramatic story of the Mandarin and his quest to find his long lost daughter on this interactive day of activities and music for the whole family. Live the story through music, song, dancing and treasure hunting surprises from Tea Dance for Little People. For more information and to book visit www.stratfordcircus.com

A Mummy for Melissa, Centre of the Cell, Whitechapel, E1 2AT

10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm. The fantastic stories from The Wind in the Willows are brought to life by a costumed storyteller in these fun and engaging sessions. Free. For more information visit www.bankofengland.co.uk/ museum

10.30-11.30am. Meet Melissa, a newborn monster who is trying to find her mummy. Along the way she meets lots of new friends who teach her about the wonderful world of living things, cells and DNA. Ages 4-7. For more information and to book visit www.centreofthecell.org

Make it Go!, Cutty Sark, Greenwich, SE10 9HT

Den Building, Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering–atteBower, RM4 1QH

11.30am-4pm. Join in this Half Term for a racing themed arts and design experience where you can try out your design ideas and race your vehicles beneath the hull of the world’s most magnificent sailing ship. Ages 4+. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.rmg.co.uk/ cutty-sark

10.30am-12noon and 1.30-3pm. Children aged 5+ can enjoy an activity session building dens and shelters in the woods. Use tarpaulin,

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

Whatever the Weather! Fun Days Out with the Family their heated carriages are the perfect ‘all weather picnic spot’ in the middle of February. Trains and buses run throughout the day and tickets include unlimited travel so there’s no need to rush. There are a wide range of special events and offers available too – this Half Term children travel for £1. For more information visit www.eorailway.co.uk.

The Best All Weather Picnic Spot

It takes about 26 minutes by tube from Stratford to Epping. From there a traditional London bus will whisk you and the children to North Weald Station on the Epping Ongar Railway where a great day out starts to take shape. Once there 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, and all on a train hauled by a steam locomotive or historic diesel engine. On the Epping Ongar Railway

Chinese New Year 2018 in London

Celebrate the beginning of the year of the dog with London’s Chinese New Year, the largest outside Asia, packed with colourful parades, performances and displays in and around Chinatown and London’s West End. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people descend on the West End to enjoy a colourful parade, free stage performances and traditional Chinese food and to wish each other “Xin Nian Kuai Le” (Happy New Year in Mandarin) or “San Nin Faai Lok” (in Cantonese). In 2018, the London celebrations are taking place on 18 February, which is the Sunday following the date of the Chinese New Year (16 February).

EPPING ONGAR RAILWAY

Kids for a Quid during our February Half Term Services

The Epping Ongar Railway is the most accessible steam railway by public transport in London - with vintage buses running from right outside of Epping Underground.

This February Half Term child fares are just

Take a look at our website for details of other events during the year.

eorailway.co.uk

01277 365200

Epping Ongar Railway

eorailway 01277 365200

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Whatever the Weather!

The festivities kick off with a vibrant parade, starting at 10am with a dragon and lion dance in Charing Cross Road, before snaking its way through Chinatown. Trafalgar Square will host the main stage performances, including traditional Chinese dance and music shows, and more stages can be found on Shaftesbury Avenue and Charing Cross Road. The kids will love the Leicester Square family zone filled with cultural activities and family-friendly performances, including calligraphy, Chinese music, dressing up in traditional outfits and more. Most importantly, don’t miss out on the great Asian food on offer in one of the two food zones. Tuck into street food in Trafalgar Square, or sit down for a traditional Chinese New Year menu and special festive treats in a Chinatown restaurant. The area around Chinatown and Trafalgar Square gets very busy during London’s Chinese New Year celebrations, so be sure to plan your route in advance and stay safe with your family.

Pancake Day Races in London

With Shrove Tuesday falling early this year on 13 February, Londoners are already preparing to celebrate the day with piles of pancakes, oodles of lemon and sugar and of course the tradition of running with a frying pan. There are races being held across the capital for you to test your flipping skills against some of the toughest competitors. The long-standing Great Spitalfields Pancake Race in aid of London’s Air Ambulance returns on Shrove Tuesday, 12.30pm. As well as prizes for winners and runners-up, they’ll be plaudits for the best dressed team. Apply to take part by emailing info@alternativearts.co.uk. On the same day, in the impressive surroundings of Westminster’s Victoria Tower Gardens, MPs, Lords and members of the media will ‘batter’ it out to see who will be crowned the Rehab Parliamentary Pancake Race champions.

take families further inside the exciting world of the Zoo’s animals and the people who look after them.Vets in Action at ZSL London Zoo, will run from Saturday 10 to Sunday 18 February. Animal Hospital and all extra activities are included in the entry price. Beat the queues at the gate and book tickets online at www.zsl. org. Photo credit: ZSL London Zoo

Winter Trees in Epping Forest

This Half Term, if you are looking for some free family fun, drop in at The View, Epping Forest’s flagship Visitor Centre, located on Rangers Road, Chingford. From 13–16 February, 11am-4pm, there will be art tables set up for all the family to enjoy an activity themed around the winter trees to be found in Epping Forest. Hopefully you will then feel inspired to take a winter stroll in the woods to explore the wintry woodland for yourself. This event is free, but if you register your interest at http:// goo.gl/iUI8bt you will receive a free bag of duck food.

Explore Epping Forest this half term

The relay race – which has been running for more than two decades – attracts hundreds of Londoners and tourists who flock to see the runners dress up in pinnies and chef’s hats to raise awareness of the important work carried out across the UK by the Rehab disability charity. Find out more at www.parliamentarypancakerace.co.uk. Greenwich Market will also be holding Pancake Day races on Tuesday 13 and Saturday 10 February at 12noon. Just turn up on the day as a team or individual and race to be in with the chance of winning a coveted medal. Donations will go to Greenwich and Bexley Community Hospice. Photo credit: Sam Warr Photography

The Vets will See You Now!

London Zoo is inviting children to become Zoo vets this February Half Term at Animal Hospital, an award-winning role-playing experience for budding veterinarians. From Saturday 10 to Sunday 18 February as part of Vets in Action, kids will be able to step into the role of a vet at ZSL London Zoo, during a packed week of interactive family events celebrating the incredible work of the Zoo’s vet team. Children will help experts examine, x-ray and carry out treatments on toys - experiencing first-hand the huge variety of work carried out by the Zoo’s vets, vet nurses and zookeepers on a daily basis. A packed schedule of talks and activities throughout the week will 12 29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

@COLEppingForest Epping Forest City of London @coleppingforest

www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/eppingforest

Epping Forest is the perfect place to spend some time exploring and creating your own adventures, whatever the weather. Find out more about the programme of great forthcoming events for children, including seasonal activities, bushcraft and Open Air Theatre.Visit the website or follow Epping Forest on social media for further details, www. cityoflondon.gov.uk/eppingforest.

Make it Go! at Cutty Sark

Visit the Cutty Sark this February for a racing themed arts and design experience where you can try out your creative ideas and compete against other vehicles beneath the hull of the world’s most magnificent sailing ship, Cutty Sark. Cutty Sark was one of the fastest ships of the Victorian period and competed in the prestigious tea races between Britain and China. She made record-breaking journeys around the world, even managing to outpace a steamship in the Indian Ocean. Her fantastic speed was due to her wonderful, sleek design and construction from some of the best materials available to shipbuilders at that time. The Half Term workshop on Cutty Sark, led by artists and architects, will enable you to try out different ideas, build your prototype and race it against other vehicles to discover which designs are the best. Running from 12-16 February, 11.30am-1.30pm and 2-4pm, the activity is free with admission to the ship and is suitable for ages 4 and above. For more details please visit, www.rmg.co.uk.

The Adventures of Toad

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12–16 February 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm and 4:00pm

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The fantastic stories from ‘The Wind in the Willows’ are brought to life by our costumed storyteller in these fun and interactive sessions. No booking required. 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

Whatever the Weather!

CS - PRIMARY TIMES QUARTER PAGE AD - 277X90 - FEB 2018 - OUT.pdf

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

What’s On

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

February rope, wood, leaves and branches amongst the trees to create a fantastic shelter. Test out your shelter against a storm! Book on 01708 748 646. For more information visit www. essexwt.org.uk

Tues 13 – Wed 14 Feb

Gut Feeling, Centre of the Cell, Whitechapel, E1 2AT 2-4.15pm. This show will unravel the fascinating structure and function of the digestive tract, why ‘we are what we eat’, what happens to the guts of patients with bowel diseases, and what makes the perfect poo! Ages 7-14. For more information and to book visit www.centreofthecell.org

Tues 13 – Fri 16 Feb

Free Family Fun, The View, Chingford, E4 7QH 11am-4pm. There will be art tables set up for all the family to enjoy an activity themed around the winter trees to be found in Epping Forest. For more information visit www. cityoflondon.gov.uk/eppingforest

Mr and Mrs Polluto, Redbridge Libraries A fun-filled family adventure about the Polluto family who throw all their rubbish into the garden and never recycle. The performance is followed by an interactive play session where families have the opportunity to create their own puppets together. Ages 4+. Booking essential. For more information visit www.redbridge. gov.uk

Wed 14 Feb

Step into the Stone Age, Waltham Abbey Gardens, EN9 1XQ 1-3pm. Experience life in the Stone Age with activities to include fire lighting, mini shelter building, up close with Stone Age artefacts, foraging and cave painting. For more information and to book visit www.visitleevalley. org.uk

Children’s Strike, Museum of London Docklands, E14 4AL 11am and 1.30pm. Learn about the young Londoners who were inspired by the Great Dock Strike to demand

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 14

“

Time to

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

”

changes in their schools. Ages 5+. Free, drop in. For more information visit www.museumoflondon.org.uk/ museum-london-docklands

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

Magic with Mr Kinder, South Woodford Library & Gym, E18 2QS 2-3pm. Roll up, roll up for Mr Kinder’s amazing book themed magic show to celebrate World Book Day. Ages 3+. Limited places, so book early to avoid disappointment. For more information call 020 8708 9067.

Valentine’s Day Card Making, Foyles, Westfield Stratford City, E20 1EH 2-3pm. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with the whole family at this card designing workshop. This session will begin with a cosy story time where some of the most-loved children’s stories will be read, followed by card designing. For more information and to reserve your free space visit www. foyles.co.uk

Bee Mine, Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre, Hornchurch Country Park, RM12 6DF 10am-11am, 11.30am-12.30pm and 2pm-3pm. Go along and make some love-ly crafts to take home for Valentine’s Day, including beeswax candle rolling. Suitable for ages 3+. Book on 01708 520 364. For more information visit www.essexwt.org.uk

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 16...

When you’re organising your child’s birthday party it’s important to remember who it’s for. It’s easy to get selfconscious comparing yourself to other parents or the perfect Pinterest party, but as long as your child and their friends have fun, that’s all that matters. There are two main avenues you can go down when it comes to hosting – homemade or readymade. We asked party guru, Rachel Benson, to give us some tips. If you do decide to host your own party and go down the homemade route, don’t stress! Your child will enjoy their day if you do too – my main memory from birthday parties as a child was getting excited when writing the invitations, not how much effort my Mum put in to organising them! Alternatively you could go for the readymade approach, which make up for the expense by saving you time and washing up! There are lots of party firms that offer different experiences. These can have themes too, from sport to art to the outdoors. Above all, relax. The day is about your child and their friends and if something goes wrong, the chances are your child won’t notice anyway. Stay calm and let good memories be made.

Vibrant Birthday Parties in the Lee Valley

Vibrant Partnerships offers a variety of fun-filled and stress-free birthday party packages across their venues, designed to create amazing memories. Everyone loves a party and where better to have one than in the Lee Valley.Your child can celebrate their birthday on ice, with animals at the farms, getting soaked on the inflatable Water Wipe Out course, on horseback or testing their athletics skills. Whether it’s following in the footsteps of Laura Kenny and Bradley Wiggins with a Pedal Power party at London 2012 Olympic venue Lee Valley VeloPark, horse riding with friends at Lee Valley Riding Centre, Hydrospeeding on the rapids at Lee Valley White Water Centre or getting up close with the mischievous Meerkats at Lee Valley Park Farms, there is something for everyone to enjoy – even the adults! Your kids will be the talk of the playground with birthday party packages on the BMX track, MTB trails or even in the track centre. Watch your children and their friends have fun as they glide around the ice at Lee Valley Ice Centre. It’s a birthday party they’ll never forget. With prices starting from £16pp, birthday party packages are available at Lee Valley Ice Centre and Lee Valley Athletics Centre where party goers will enjoy a range of activities with an experienced coach. Celebrations can include delicious party food, a private area to relax in and party bags. For more information, visit www.visitleevalley.org.uk/birthdayparties.

Party Party at ZAPspace

ZAPspace is the perfect place for your child’s birthday party. Get the party started with an hour of non-stop bouncing fun with the birthday guest of honour and friends. Party guests can race each other down the Ninja Slide, battle on The Beam, test reactions on the Activity Wall, and see who’s the best at Dodgeball or Basketball before tucking into some tasty party food and drinks. ZAPspace offers two party packages with prices starting from £18 per child. The Zapper Party Package includes one hour freestyle jumping with ZAPspace jump socks, a dedicated host for your event, balloon modelling and a selection of food platters to choose from as well as unlimited squash and water. The Super Zapper Party Package includes all of the above as well as slush drinks and a complimentary birthday voucher for a one hour free style jump session at ZAPspace.You can make your child’s party even more extra special by adding some ZAPspace party invites and party bags to take home. Have a large party? You can hire the awesome Sky Bar with the option for private music and themes to give your child a truly amazing and unforgettable celebration. Book your child’s party today by calling 020 8555 7029, emailing bookings@zapspace.co.uk or visiting www.zapspace.co.uk. Lee_Valley_Party Ad_AW.pdf

11/01/2017

14:10

Give the kids a day to remember with a vibrant birthday party at Lee Valley.

From Water Wipe Out to a wild day out at the farm, and much much more, there’s something for everyone!

Locations in Herts, Essex and London visitleevalley.org.uk/birthdayparties

CMY

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

What’s On

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

February Marvellous Magic, Valentines Mansion & Gardens, Ilford, IG1 4XA 11.30am-12.30pm (magic show and magic workshop) or 1-2pm (magic show and balloon workshop). Be prepared to be amazed by Mrs Back to Front and her marvellous magic tricks. Tickets include both the magic show and a workshop. Ages 5+. To book visit www.valentinesmansion. com

Chinese New Year, Seven Kings Library, IG3 8RQ 2-4pm. Help to celebrate by creating New Year themed crafts. Free, just turn up. Suitable for ages 5+. For more information call 020 8708 9780.

Family Fun Day, The Engine House, Walthamstow Wetlands, N17 9NH 10am-3pm. What lives at Walthamstow Wetlands? Discover the amazing habitats on site by taking part in mini-beast hunts, pond dipping and a bird watch. And get creative in the classroom with natural objects and arts and crafts. For more information visit www.wildlondon.org.uk

Make your Own Kite, Rainham Hall, RM13 9YN 11am-12noon. Tick off No.7 from the 50 things to do before you’re 11 and ¾ list and make your own kite at Rainham Hall. Ages 5-12. Charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/rainham-hall

Wed 14 – Thurs 15 Feb The Great Dock Strike, Museum of London Docklands, E14 4AL

1pm, 2pm and 3pm. Join the storyteller for the true tale of the Great Dock Strike of 1889. Ages 5+. Free, drop in. For more information visit www.museumoflondon.org.uk/ museum-london-docklands

‘STEAM!’ Half Term, Ragged School Museum, Mile End, E3 4RR 10am-5pm. Go along and use Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Maths to find out how the Victorians did the same to shape our lives today. Also, the Victorian Classroom and Victorian Kitchen will be open for you to explore. Free. For more information visit www. raggedschoolmuseum.org.uk

Thurs 15 Feb

A Picture Says 1,000 Words, Museum of London Docklands, E14 4AL 12noon and 2.30pm. Use colours, images and words in this art workshop to design pieces of protest art that inspire change in the world. Ages 5+. Free, drop in. For more information visit www. museumoflondon.org.uk/museumlondon-docklands

Wild about Vicky Park, Victoria Park, E3 5TB 10am-12.30pm. Get creative and draw, paint, cut out and crayon your favourite wildlife creature. Meet at the V&A building. For more information visit www.towerhamlets. gov.uk

Sophia, the Suffragette Princess, Museum of London Docklands, E14 4AL 11.30am, 12.30pm and 1.30pm. Hear the incredible tale of Sophia Duleep Singh, god-daughter to Queen Victoria, daughter of a Maharaja and passionate suffragette. Ages 5+. Free, drop in. For more information visit www.museumoflondon.org.uk/ museum-london-docklands

Gingerbread Man Day, Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering–atte-Bower, RM4 1QH 10.30am-12noon. Discover the story of the gingerbread man, decorate gingerbread men and play fun games and activities. Ages 3+. Book on 01708 748 646. For more information visit www.essexwt.org.uk

Dinosaur Family Fun Day, Havering Museum, Romford, RM1 1JU 11am-3pm. Drop in anytime with the children to have fun exploring Britain’s dinosaur heritage through crafts, quizzes and roaring good fun. Suitable for 4-10 year-olds. A small

Wed 14 – Sat 17 Feb

Celebrate Chinese New Year, Redbridge Libraries Help to celebrate by creating New Year themed crafts. Free, just turn up. Ages 5+. For more information and to find a list of times and participating libraries visit www.redbridge.gov.uk

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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

“

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

”

charge applies for adults which admits up to four children free. For more information visit www. haveringmuseum.org.uk

Plant it, Grow it and Eat it, Rainham Hall, RM13 9YN 11am-12noon. Learn how to sow seeds in recycled pots.You’ll be helping to grow carrots for the Dig for Victory bed, but will also be able to take home 2 pots of your own. Ages 5-9. Charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/rainham-hall

Birds of Prey Evening, Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering–atte-Bower, RM4 1QH 6-8pm. Join in for an amazing evening. The Imperial Birds of Prey Academy will be back at Bedfords with some amazing birds and other exotic creatures. Listen to a talk about them and see the birds in action. Ages 7+. Book on 01708 748 646. For more information visit www.essexwt.org.uk

Wooden Insect Houses, Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre, Hornchurch Country Park, RM12 6DF 10am-12.30pm. Go along to Ingrebourne Valley and decorate your very own Wooden Insect House. Ages 3+. Book on 01708 520 364. For more information visit www. essexwt.org.uk

Jail Break Smash Camp, Stubbers Adventure Centre, Upminster, RM14 2TY From 8.30am. This is a themed day where the group will be planning and executing a jailbreak at Stubbers. The team must do all this within a strict timescale to escape the wrath of the SMASH Jail Guards. Suitable for school years 2-11. For more information and to book visit www. smashcamps.co.uk

Fri 16 Feb

Chinese New Year, Museum of London Docklands, E14 4AL 11am. Celebrate the Year of the Dog at this special family day. Ages 3+. Free, drop in. For more information visit www.museumoflondon.org.uk/ museum-london-docklands

Spring Sayings, Museum of London Docklands, E14 4AL 11am and 1.30pm. Try your hand at Chinese calligraphy and create artwork designed to bring you luck throughout the Year of the Dog. Ages 5+. Free, drop in. For more information visit www. museumoflondon.org.uk/museumlondon-docklands

Gut Feeling, Centre of the Cell, Whitechapel, E1 2AT 11am-1.15pm. This show will unravel the fascinating structure and function of the digestive tract, why ‘we are what we eat’, what happens to the guts of patients with bowel diseases, and what makes the perfect poo! Ages 7-14. For more information and to book visit www.centreofthecell. org

Chinese New Year, Hainault Library, Chigwell, IG7 4DD 11am-12noon. Help to celebrate by creating New Year themed crafts. Free, just turn up. Suitable for ages 5+. For more information call 020 8708 9206.

Campfire Cooking, Rainham Hall, RM13 9YN 11am-1pm. Inspired by the exhibition about the WWII nursery at Rainham Hall, gather around the campfire to toast marshmallows as children did in years gone by. Ages 5-12. For more information and to book visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/rainham-hall

Outdoor Survival, Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre, Hornchurch Country Park, RM12 6DF 1-3.30pm. Build a waterproof den, learn the techniques of lighting a fire, and cook marshmallows on the open fire. Suitable for ages 5+. Book on 01708 520 364. For more information visit www.essexwt.org.uk

Forest Fairytales, Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering– atte-Bower, RM4 1QH 10.30am-12noon and 1.30-3pm. Follow an adventure at your own pace through the forest, discover characters from your favourite fairytales and back to the centre to create a fairytale craft to take home. Ages 3+. Book on 01708 748 646. For more information visit www. essexwt.org.uk

Sat 17 Feb

Saturday Chess, Victoria Park, E3 5TB 11am-2pm. Suitable for children aged 7+ who are beginners or have some experience of the game. Come and play and pick up some tips from professional chess coaches available on the day. Meet at the Hub building. For more information visit www. towerhamlets.gov.uk

Heart Warming History Stroll, Victoria Park, E3 5TB 1-3pm. Discover why Victoria Park is loved by millions of its visitors every year and named The Nation’s Favourite Park (2015/16) as local author and cultural commentator Travis Elborough takes you on a stroll to discover the park’s secret stories and hidden history. To book call 020 7364 4504.

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

Education News

Exploration and Discovery

Get creative and enter the British Science Association’s annual poster competition, which challenges children from nursery to Year 9 to create posters on this year’s theme of exploration and discovery. Your students can make their poster about anything around the theme, from space travel and futuristic advances to iconic

discoveries in science. The five best posters from your school can be entered into the UK-wide competition with the chance for students to win an array of prizes. Entrants will be judged within four age categories: Early Years (nursery and reception), Infant (Years 1-3), Junior (Years 4-6) and Senior (Years 7 to 9). Entries from youth groups and other organisations are also welcome in addition to schools. Entrants can be teams or individuals, however each school/youth group can only enter up to a maximum of five entries. Entries must be 2D and submitted on one side of A4 or A3 paper only. Posters must include the entrant’s name (all names if a team) and age (all ages if a team), age category (of the oldest team member) as well as the school/ youth group name and address. Once your students have completed their posters, check the competition details online at www.britishscienceweek.org before sending your top five entries to: Discovery and Exploration Poster Competition, British Science Association, Wellcome Wolfson Building, 165 Queen’s Gate, London, SW7 5HD. The competition closes on Friday 6 April at 6pm. A Primary Resource Pack for 2018 is now available to download from the British Science Week website. It’s full of ideas for teachers and parents to help encourage young people to think about everyday discoveries and how they affect their lives by exploring science in the world all around us.

Lest We Forget

An international poetry competition commemorating this year’s centenary of Armistice Day has been launched by the University of Lincoln with support of the Poet Laureate, Carol Ann Duffy, and winner of the Queen’s Gold Medal for Poetry, Imtiaz Dharker. The Armistice 100 Prize for Schools Poetry Competition is open to young people aged 9 to 18 years with prizes in three age categories (first place, £300, second place, £200, and third place, £100) for the best original poems on the theme of armistice. This could be about the First World War, the cessation of hostilities more generally, or a more personal interpretation.

Across the globe, the Kumon Maths and English Programmes advance students beyond their school level. Contact your local Instructor for a free assessment.

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29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Education News

Some 10 million soldiers were killed in ‘The Great War’ before the guns finally fell silent on Armistice Day, 11th November 1918. As the birthplace of the tank, the City of Lincoln played a unique role in bringing the First World War to an end with the invention helping to end the bloody stalemate of trench warfare. The Armistice 100 Prize for Schools Poetry Competition closes at midnight on Friday 8 June. Submitted poems can take any format with a maximum word count of 500 words (excluding title). More details, including full terms and conditions, are available at www.lincoln.ac.uk/ armistice100.

Human Rights Lessons for Primary School

Continue the important educational message of International Human Rights Day with a series of great resources from Amnesty International to help pupils understand their own human rights and the values and attitudes that underpin them. The pack of ten interactive lesson activities, targeted specifically at the 5-7 and 7-11 age ranges, explores key lessons such as fair trade, respecting the environment and understanding unique identities. For the older pupils, the lessons will introduce them to universal human rights, understanding the refugee experience and standing up for those in need. The lessons will help to foster attitudes of respect and appreciation for each other, and develop skills to defend human rights. With detailed teacher guides including warm up activities, discussion questions and printable picture cards, the resources can be linked to the curriculum as well as important moral lessons such as fairness and justice. Download the resource pack from www.amnesty.org.uk/ resources.

Schools are invited to enter at schoolgardening.rhs.org.uk/ sgoty18 with applications closing at 5pm on Wednesday 25 April. Shortlisted applicants will be asked to produce a five-minute video in support of their entry. A host of top prizes are up for grabs including cedar coldframes and a greenhouse as well as National Garden Gift Vouchers and tools. Winning schools will also receive a visit from competition judge and TV gardening presenter, Frances Tophill, who appears on BBC Gardeners’ World and ITV’s Love Your Garden.

Ultra Education

Ultra Education is the UK’s #1 provider of entrepreneurial education programmes in schools and workshops for children and young people aged 7-18 years old. Ultra Education was founded by Julian ‘The Ultrapreneur’ Hall, who is dedicated to providing a platform for young people to learn to “make money doing what they love” from a young age. Delivered in an exciting and challenging way, Ultra Education aims to make learning and the school curriculum relevant. Their entrepreneurial child education content is designed to reinforce academics (eg English, Maths and Science) and provide children with realistic options and life skills for future employment or selfemployment. Ultra Education workshops are 6 weeks in length, once per week, and run over 5 terms in the year in locations across London with an additional franchise in Birmingham. Further information can be found online at www.ultra.education. “Happiness is the true measure of success, let’s help your child get there.” - Julian Hall (Founder, Ultra Education)

REDBRIDGE KIDS ENTREPRENEURSHIP WORKSHOPS OUR MOTTO

DO WHAT YOU LOVE

School Gardeners of the Year

The Royal Horticultural Society is searching for school gardening’s brightest stars to be RHS School Gardeners of the Year 2018. The nationwide competition celebrates the passion and creativity in school gardening across the UK, and encourages schools’ ambitions with a range of top prizes. In 2018, supported by greenhouse provider Gabriel Ash, the RHS is calling on schools to nominate their gardening heroes across three categories: • RHS Young School Gardener of the Year for pupils aged 5-16 who demonstrate a true passion for gardening, show invaluable gardening skills and have made an outstanding contribution to their school or local community. • RHS School Gardening Team of the Year to recognise an outstanding gardening team that has made a difference to their school environment or local community. • RHS School Gardening Champion of the Year celebrating teachers, leaders and volunteers who have inspired a passion for gardening and have used the outdoors to help bring the curriculum alive.

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

We teach children and teens how to turn their passion into business and make money from it.

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Explore Learning shared with Primary Times one member’s experience over his 4 years at one of their maths and English tuition centres in Urmston. Here is Aysin’s journey. “Explore Learning is what I call education in heaven. The best place to learn new things and improve on things you already know. Similarly, school is the same but the only difference is Explore Learning helps you learn and perfect what you have learned in school. The staff are kind and do their job extremely well. They are honestly the most helpful people you can find. I would definitely recommend anyone to join because it is fantastic to come here and everyone who is still in school deserves to join too. Explore Learning to me is like a home. A home in which you are welcome. Each tutor is more helpful than the other. I feel that a part of me has attached here. This place always had a calm atmosphere and makes me happier than ever.” Explore Learning are 100% confident you’ll love it too, so why not see for yourself? Call 03301 243 801 to book your free trial at one of Explore Learning’s local centres. Alternatively, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk.

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IS YOUR SCHOOL PREPARED FOR THE DIGITAL FUTURE? Our children are growing up in an increasingly digital world and technology is influencing how we live our lives. A study from BT and Ipsos MORI shows that 97 per cent of UK primary teachers believe it’s their responsibility to prepare children for a digital world, however, only 25 per cent agree they’re equipped to do so. The Barefoot Computing Project is supporting primary school teachers across the UK with free workshops and resources that bring to life computational thinking in crosscurricular and engaging ways. Teachers who have accessed Barefoot resources are more confident than their peers, with 84 per cent understanding computational thinking, compared with 57 per cent overall. Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

Supported by the Department for Education, BT and Computing at School, all the resources are aligned with all UK curricula, including engaging activities for SEN pupils.

So far, Barefoot has: • Supported over 50% of UK schools. • Had over 100,000 resources downloaded. • Reached more than 1.5 million children.

How can you get involved? If you’re a primary teacher, register for free resources and lesson plans or book a free workshop for your school, by visiting www.barefootcas.org.uk, or become a Barefoot volunteer

“I love Barefoot because the computational language underpins all subjects, not just in computing, and it’s provided a consistent, reliable and academic approach to all learning. Plus, the lessons are great fun and the children love them!” Daniel Ferry Teacher at St Joseph’s Primary School, Islington

Stay in touch with us on our Twitter @BarefootComp and Facebook ‘Barefoot Computing’. Find out more: www.barefootcas.org.uk 29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

What’s On

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

February 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

The Princess and the Pea, Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT

Kids Birdwatching Club, RSPB Rainham Marshes Nature Reserve, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ 10am-12.30pm. Join in on these special days held once a month to explore the reserve through the seasons, watching and learning about the birds that live and visit there. For more information visit www.rspb.org. uk/rainham

Sat 17 – Sun 18 Feb

Kids for a Quid this February Half Term, Epping Ongar Railway

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

Keep the kids entertained over the Half Term holiday when the railway’s child tickets are just £1! There will be a lovely buffet at North Weald Station and a small sweet and cake shop at Ongar - but with big tables on the trains you can also take along an ‘indoor’ picnic. To book visit www.eorailway.co.uk

Chinese New Year with Qian Shi, Foyles, Westfield Stratford City, E20 1EH

Chinese New Year, Various Locations

12.30-4pm. Celebrate Chinese New Year with the whole family at this magical afternoon of stories, crafts and activities. For more information and to reserve your free space visit www.foyles.co.uk

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

Chinese New Year, Gants Hill Library, Ilford, IG2 6LA 2-3pm. Help to celebrate by creating New Year themed crafts. Free, just turn up. Suitable for ages 5+. For more information call 020 8708 9281.

Glass Art, Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre, Hornchurch Country Park, RM12 6DF 10am-12.30pm. Decorate a glass to take home, using special glass paints and glass pens. Fun for everyone. Suitable for ages 3+. Book on 01708 520 364. For more information visit www.essexwt.org.uk

Sun 18 Feb

The festivities kick off with a vibrant parade in and around Chinatown, followed by spectacular free stage performances in Trafalgar Square. Enjoy martial art displays, familyfriendly cultural activities, music shows and traditional Chinese street food in different zones dotted around the West End. For more information visit www.london.gov.uk

Wild Weekend, The Engine House, Walthamstow Wetlands, N17 9NH 10am-3pm. Join in with National Nest Box Week and see if you can spot any of the nests on site. Drop in for the day to make your own nest, decorate eggs or make a bird. A great fun family day all about nests. For more information visit www. wildlondon.org.uk

Sat 24 Feb

Family Pancake Party, Victoria Park, E3 5TB 12noon-3pm. Take along your family ahead of Shrove Tuesday to fry, flip and build a stack of your very own pancakes… but who can produce the perfect pancake? To book call 020 7364 4504. For more information visit www.towerhamlets.gov.uk

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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

“

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

”

Printing from Nature, William Morris Gallery, Walthamstow, E17 4PP

1-4pm. On the last Sat of every month the Gallery is packed full of fun activities for families to make and do together. This month, celebrate Morris’s love of nature by creating gelatin (vegetarian) prints, working directly with plants and leaves. For more information visit www. wmgallery.org.uk

Merlins Bird Watching Club, Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre, Hornchurch, RM12 6DF 10am-12noon. Named after the Merlin engines that once powered RAF Hornchurch’s Spitfires, armed with binoculars, bird guide and notepad (all provided) join Brenda the birdwatching guide to spot, observe and identify the bird life of Hornchurch Country Park. Ages 8+. Book on 01708 520 364. For more information visit www.essexwt.org.uk

Family Farm Club, Stepney City Farm, E1 3DG 1-3.30pm. Join in some free drop in activities in the class room for children and accompanying adults. For more information visit www. stepneycityfarm.org

Sun 25 Feb

Dreams of Air and Flight, Barbican Hall, EC2Y 8DS 2.30-3.30pm. A soaring family concert inspired by FArTHER – the beautiful and poignant story by Grahame Baker-Smith about a young boy bewitched by his father’s unrelenting passion to fly. Ages 7-12. For more information and to book visit www. lso.co.uk

Tues 27 Feb

Forest School, Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering–atteBower, RM4 1QH 3.45-4.45pm. Gain skills and work towards achieving confidence in the outdoors. Take part in den building, rope work, bushcraft skills and tool work, woodland crafts and explore wildlife. Ages 5+. Book on 01708 748 646. For more information visit www. essexwt.org.uk

March Thurs 1 Mar

World Book Day, Nationwide Join in this celebration of authors, illustrators, books and (most importantly) a celebration of reading.

For more information, fun stuff, news and games visit www.worldbookday. com

World Book Day Sessions, Selected Redbridge Libraries Drop in for some book themed fun to celebrate World Book Day. For times, a list of participating libraries and more information visit www. redbridge.gov.uk

Thurs 1 – Sat 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

Sat 3 Mar

Supernova Run, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Stratford, E20 2ST 7pm. Take in the beautiful sights of the Park on this enchanting journey of light and sound. Get the family together, dig out your fluorescent clothes, head torches and glow sticks, then you’re all set to light up the Park in the Supernova 5K. For more information and to register visit www. queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk

A Dawn Chorus, Victoria Park, E3 5TB 6-8.30am. Take along your friends and family along to discover what feathered friends are living in Vicky Park and listen to them sing in the morning. Book on 020 7364 4504. For more information visit www. towerhamlets.gov.uk

Pom-Pom Animals, Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT 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

Magic with Mr Kinder, Redbridge Central Library, Ilford, IG1 1EA 11am. Roll up, roll up for Mr Kinder’s amazing book themed magic show to celebrate World Book Day. Ages 3+. Limited places, so book early to avoid disappointment. Also taking place at Fullwell Cross Library at 2pm. For more information visit www. redbridge.gov.uk

Groove into Space, Rich Mix, E1 6LA 10.30am. A big family favourite in the London Jazz Festival, Groove Baby returns to the Rich Mix with another exciting and entertaining show especially for 0-5 year old’s and their grown-ups. For more information and to book visit www.richmix.org.uk

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

Your chance to win lots more prizes We have many more books, toys and games to win than we have room for on these pages. For your chance to win a prize follow us on

@PT_LondonSandE and retweet to win

Win Signed Sets of Ross Welford’s Books

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

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

Primary Times has one PS4 Slimline 500GB to give away to one lucky reader. To be in with a chance of winning, all you need to do is complete the word search. Then fill out the form with your details and send it to the address at the foot of the page. R E R O L P X E E H

Midas

K J C V A B A R R T

C X R V A T A D E O

Tad

Z O M S N V Y F D L

D N A P W

A D S F S A D

• Kidnap • Sara

Bandits

T L R E D T L G D D C X V K

Explorer

Gold

Q U T R B R U R B G

B D T R T L E W E J

•

Parrot

• Jewel

• Adventure

I M K

Name................................. Age................................... address............................. ....................................... school..............................

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

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Competitions

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for February and March Sat 10 Mar

March Wizard Stories, Goodmayes Library, IG3 9QB 11am-12noon. Go along for a special performance by Wizard Stories as part of the World Book Day celebrations. Also taking place at South Woodford Library & Gym at 2pm. Ages 5-11. Free. Book in advance at the library. For more information visit www.redbridge. gov.uk

Sat 3 Mar – Mon 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

Sun 4 Mar

Tues 6 Mar

Forest School, Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering–atteBower, RM4 1QH (Also 13 Mar) 3.45-4.45pm. Gain skills and work towards achieving confidence in the outdoors. Take part in den building, rope work, bushcraft skills and tool work, woodland crafts and explore wildlife. Ages 5+. Book on 01708 748 646. For more information visit www.essexwt.org.uk

DIY Mother’s Day Cards, Victoria Park, E3 5TB 12noon-3pm. Spoil your mum this Mother’s Day by joining the community park rangers to make her an extra special Mother’s Day card. Meet at the Hub building. For more information visit www.towerhamlets. gov.uk

Sun 11 Mar

Mother’s Day, Lee Valley Park Farms, Waltham Abbey, EN9 2EF 10am-5pm. Treat the lady in your life this Mother’s Day to a jam packed day of family fun activities. Learn about the farm animals, explore outdoor activities and take a break in the café with a bite to eat. The best part is Mums go free. For more information and to book visit www. visitleevalley.org.uk

Mothers’ Day Afternoon Tea, Eastbury Manor House, Barking, IG11 9SN 12.30pm or 2.30pm. Celebrate Mother’s Day with a traditional afternoon tea in a picturesque backdrop. The Eastbury Kitchen will be cooking up delicious cakes, scones and sandwiches. For more information and to book visit www. lbbd.gov.uk

Fire and Fieldcraft, Warren Pond Car Park, Chingford, E4 6BD 10am-1pm. Learn how to make fire and discover how to get closer to wildlife by blending into the woods and following the clues. Take along a packed lunch. Ages 6-12. For more information and to book visit www. cityoflondon.gov.uk/eppingforest

Hunting The King’s Deer, The View, Chingford, E4 7QH 2.30-3.30pm. Find out more about the colourful individuals whose illegal hunting expeditions landed them in the law courts four hundred years ago. Drawing and colouring materials will be available for children who may be attending the talk with their adults. For more information and to book visit www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ eppingforest

Thurs 8 Mar

Into the Woods, William Morris Gallery, Walthamstow, E17 4PP 10am and 1pm. Inspired by Gayle Chong Kwan’s exhibition, help create a soaring tree sculpture from cardboard. Under 5s. For more information and to book visit www. wmgallery.org.uk

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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

“

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

Squiggle Monsters Family Fun, Redbridge Central Library, Ilford, IG1 1EA

Mothers’ Day Card Making, Foyles, Westfield Stratford City, E20 1EH

Sat 17 – Fri 23 Mar

”

2-3pm. Show your mum just how much she means to you by creating your own home-made Mothers’ Day card! Materials provided. The session will begin with a cosy story time. For more information and to reserve your free space visit www. foyles.co.uk

12noon-4pm. Using a drawing app on iPads, create a squiggle or scribble. Let’s find the monster hidden within! Add horns, teeth or an extra leg then bring your creature to life by saving it as a video or a Gif. Ages 5-10. Booking essential. For more information call 020 8708 2414.

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

Fri 16 – Sun 18 Mar

London St Patrick’s Day Festival 2018, Various Locations in Central London A three day festival which will include amongst other activities, an Irish Community and Culture Festival, film screenings, a Schools art project, children’s treasure trails as well as the St Patrick’s Day Parade and St Patrick’s Day on Trafalgar Square. For more information visit www.london. gov.uk

Sat 17 Mar

Mini Maestro Family Concert, St Martin in the Fields, WC2N 4JJ 4.30-5.30pm. Go on a journey through Mozart’s marvellous symphony and hear the instruments telling a story – with a sprinkling of Handel’s Water Music. For more information and to book visit www. stmartin-in-the-fields.org

The Frog Prince, 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

Sun 18 Mar

Great Fire of London Family Walk, Museum of London, EC2Y 5HN 11am. Was the baker of Pudding Lane to blame? What did Samuel Pepys bury in his garden? Find out on this 45 minute interactive family walk exploring how the Great Fire started, spread and was finally stopped. Ages 5+. For more information and to book visit www.museumoflondon. org.uk

Sat 24 Mar

The Cancer Research UK Oxford and Cambridge Boat Races, Various Locations 4.31pm and 5.31pm. Watched by thousands along the banks of the Tideway, between Putney and Mortlake in London, and by millions more on TV, The Cancer Research UK Boat Races are a unique sporting event between two rowing crews from Oxford and Cambridge universities. For more information visit www.theboatraces.org

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

Our next copy deadline is

2 March 2018.

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listings@ primarytimes.biz

All About YOU!

Oscar Ninh aged 7

Riyon Perera aged 8

Coakley, Amber Youssef competitions in our Winter/Christmas issue. Oliver Congratulations to the following people who won Bonnie Allen won Tangled and ngton on won Ferdinand goodies. Imogen Warri Mnari, Josephine Roberts, Leo Everard and Ella Clerks etition winners were comp go Ninja s.Lego mural ale won Cars photo photomurals and Stanley Jones and Benjamin Bleasd ns. Guinness World Records Goody Bags Matthew Clarke, Oliver Coakley and Harry Macki If you would like to see , Charlie Doherty, Luna Woodbridge, White ie were won by Hibah Swaleh Ahmed, Frank easer, Stanley ey-Cr Freakl your work displayed Chloe uire, Macq nn igh-A Kayle za, Jessica Salter, Kathleen D'Sou Drawing Competition for the Annie the here then just send us a won 7 aged Ninh Oscar v. Uzuno e Owen and Georg our older group. Well done to all our prize for it won drawing, poem, riddles, 8. aged Perera Riyon and group er young jokes or short story and page. this on rk artwo the enjoy and rs winne

we'll do our very best to include it. Send it to: Good Work Page Primary Times 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG

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

G F R E E Z I N G P

N F H G L O V E O M

I C B D B D X M S R

T I L E K O P P N O

A T I L C O L D O T

K C Z S M W S D W S

S R Z H R E T N I W

E A A Q F R A C S O

C T R C R I J K C N

What did Frosty call his cow? Eskimoo!

What do you call an old snowman? Water!

Copy the Picture and Colour it in

I V D G O F T G L S

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

Answers

Winter Word Search

Spot the Differences

lownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Winter Warmer

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

Katie

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

Spot the Eight Differences

What is a snowmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite drink? Ice Tea!

Draw a picture of anything to do with Winter. Send it to us to have a chance of winning a Primary Times Tee Shirt AND seeing your prize winning entry published in the next Primary Times! Categories: ages 4-7 and 8-11 Name: Age: Address:

Postcode: School:

Send your entry together with this completed form to: Annie's Competition, Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London, SE12 8LG Closing date: 2 March 2018. Good Luck!