East London July Bumper Summer 2021 Primary Times by Alison Watson

What’s On Where East London

FAMILY DAYS OUT

EDUCATION ROUNDUP

DAILY DIARY OF WHAT’S ON

JULY BUMPER SUMMER 2021 5 JULY - 31 AUGUST 2021 ISSUE 73

LONDON’S WARSHIP EXPERIENCE

EXPLORE ALL NINE DECKS OF HMS BELFAST Scan the QR code to visit our website or search: HMS Belfast 2

5 July-31 August 2021

Hi Readers Primary Times in East London 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG Tel: 020 8318 0400 Email: office@primarytimes.biz Website: www.primarytimes.co.uk Twitter: @PT_LondonSandE Instagram: @primarytimesse Publishing Editor: Peter Watson Sales: My Yen Doyle, Catherine Dillon, Ty Smith & Andrew Langridge Listings: Claire Wood, Hayley Hughes Production: Alison Watson Office Manager: Chris Blower Administrator: Claire Wood 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.

Well what a mixed school year that has been... lessons in school, home schooling, online lessons then back to school. However you’ve been learning, the summer holidays are nearly here so now is your chance to put the year behind you, relax and enjoy a fun summer. As part of that relaxing take a look at our School’s Out for Summer feature, full of ideas on how to have fun with the family. All the venues listed have had a really tough time this year and will appreciate your visit and support. Please do mention that you read about them in Primary Times - we also value your support. Claire and Hayley have spent a long time searching to make this the best ever guide for what to do this summer holiday. Many of the listings are FREE or low cost so do read through them and mark up the ones you want to go to. Our listings are prepared a long time in advance so to make sure you have the latest details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure they haven’t changed, especially with last minute changes due to Covid19 restrictions. As many of you will know, we publish a comprehensive Choosing your New School feature in our September magazine. The feature is aimed at Year 5 and Year 6 pupils but is handy for everyone to think about. Do look out for that magazine which will be published on 1 September.

Contents

inside this issue.... Local News...............................4 Family Theatre..........................6 What’s On.................................8 School’s Out for Summer..............9 Education News...................... 12 Competitions........................... 15 Film Preview............................ 19 All Your Own Work..................23

As we are distributed through primary schools this means that this magazine is the last one that our Year 6 readers will receive. We wish you the very best of luck in going to secondary school. Thank you for taking our magazines home, entering our competitions, sending us artwork and all the lovely comments you send us. We will miss you.

Peter and the Primary Times Team

Do You Love Dinosaurs? Most people do and there will be even more of them when they’ve read this bright and colourful book by Matt Robertson, which is perfect for all young dino-fans. Young readers can ﬁnd out fun facts on these mighty creatures. From the ferocious hunters like Spinosaurus and T-Rex to the gentle giants like Diplodocus and Triceratops, the speedyVelociraptor to the armoured Ankylosaurus, discover all the weird and wonderful things that made dinosaurs so amazing!

There are double page spreads on armoured dinosaurs, dinosaur eggs, fossils, dino speed and much more. It also features a dinosaur hall of fame and a double page close-up feature spread of everyone’s favourite toothy tyrant, T-Rex! Are you planning a school sports day later in the term? We bet it’s nothing like the one below. Matt Robertson gives us fascinating facts on just how fast (or slow) some dinosaurs were in this example of one of the spreads from the book. Do You Love Dinosaurs is published by Bloomsbury in paperback at £6.99.

5 July-31 August 2021

Local News

Adjusting to the New Normal

Exciting Opportunities Ahead

It’s hard to believe it’s been more than a year and a half since the first lockdown restrictions were announced and life as we knew it ground to a halt. Primary Times spoke to Wendy Robinson, Service Head at Childline. She gave us some tips to help families adjust. Although we’re able to enjoy a few more freedoms now, the impact of Covid-19 is likely to be with us for some time to come. It will have a long-lasting impact on children and families, something that they’ve heard a lot about at Childline, which continues to be there for children. The NSPCC-run service has counselled more than 73,000 children and young people UK-wide around mental health related concerns alone since April 2020. More and more young people are talking about their struggles with mental health generally but also because of Covid-19. And now as restrictions lift, this can bring a new set of worries for children. So how can we help children regain their confidence in the world again? Start slowly Getting back into a routine with attending school and seeing friends might feel difficult but a routine of familiar things will help. Take it slowly and don’t be surprised if they are reluctant or hesitant at first, be supportive and help them ease gently back into their old routines. Try something new Whether it’s a new hobby, joining a club or going somewhere you haven’t been before, trying new experiences can help children feel better about themselves. See yourself differently If your child is having negative thoughts or thinking too much about things they’d like to change, encourage them to challenge themselves. They could try writing down one thing every day that they like. It could be their smile, kindness, sense of humour. If they’re struggling, suggest they think what someone who cares about them would say. Try a new look Doing something different with the way you look can help you go beyond your comfort zone and reclaim a sense of self. Why not help them try out a new hairstyle or choose a new outfit. Help other people There are lots of ways to help others, from volunteering to just listening to a friend. It’s a great way to help children feel better about themselves and shows they’ve got positive things to share. Talk to people Try taking a breath and talking slowly and clearly. Try asking about the other person and really listen to what they’re saying. Remind children others can’t see what they’re thinking and they might not even know that they’re nervous. Building confidence can take time, but these tips are a good place to start. More advice and support can be found at www. childline.org and children can always call and speak to a volunteer counsellor, free and in confidence by calling 0800 1111. 4

5 July-31 August 2021

As the Anna Fiorentini Theatre & Film School celebrates 21 Years, they are preparing the celebrations. They are encouraging new students aged 4 - 18 years old to join the Anna Fiorentini Theatre & Film School for September’s new term. All 7 - 18 year olds who enrol now for the September term, will be able to participate in the Anniversary Showcase taking place at the Hackney Empire in March 2022. It is sure to be a night filled with dazzling performances and fun! Not only will you get performance opportunities for this showcase and be directed by top industry professionals, but you will increase your confidence and creative skills. Many past students have landed leading roles on TV, Film and Theatre via their theatrical agency, including Belinda Owusu, (five year contract with EastEnders playing Libby Fox), Tahj Miles, (Simba in the West End’s The Lion King and currently one of the leads on TV’s Death in Paradise), Orla Hill, (child star in Song for Marion and Swallows & Amazons) and Jermain Jackman, (winner of The Voice UK shortly after winning Fiorentini’s Got Talent). They are not just about building performers though, as they are just as interested in developing transferable life skills in their young people. And if you’re searching for your perfect Staycation opportunity, look no further. The Summer School is back for the Anniversary celebrations and promises to be bigger, brighter and bolder than ever. Taking place in July and August in Stratford, students will spend time creating their own musicals before taking part in a spectacular performance at the end of the week. Led by industry professionals, the courses are open to both Anna Fiorentini students and nonstudents aged 7 - 16 years old. It’s a great chance to meet new people, learn new skills and have fun, no matter your ability. All of the schools and courses are COVID-19 secure. However, due to social distancing measures, places are extremely limited so do book in advance to secure a place. Head to the website to find out more, www.afperformingarts.com/theatre-and-film-school

The Pirate Mums

Billy often wishes his family could be more like everyone else’s. Billy’s two mums love to dance jigs and sing sea shanties and their taste in home décor is decidedly piratical, and instead of a dog, cat or hamster, Billy’s mums have a parrot called Birdbrain. When his mums volunteer to accompany Billy’s class on a school trip to the seaside, with a boat trip included (Billy’s mums love boats), he makes them promise to be normal. But when the boat gets into trouble, their nautical knowledge and salty sea-legs save the day. Billy discovers that it’s what makes his mums different that also makes them – and himself – special. Debut author Jodie Lancet-Grant lives in East London. She wrote The Pirate Mums to bring the experience of same sex families into the spotlight. She and her wife searched without success for picture books featuring LGBTQ+ families to read to their young twin daughters, wanting them to see their own experience reflected back at them. Illustrated by Lydia Corry and published in June to coincide with Pride Month 2021, The Pirate Mums is an utterly joyous picture book celebrating and normalising the experience of children growing up in same sex families.

Group Cards is a card site with a difference. With Group Cards, no matter the distance between you, you can get together with friends and families to contribute to the same card for a friend, colleague or family member. Group Cards allows you to send handwritten eCards or real cards to your chosen person with messages from your contributors, all without having to leave your desk (or sofa!). If you need to arrange a card quickly, a thank you card for a teacher, a leaving card for a work friend or any other card message from more than one person, then Group Cards is the destination for you.You get up to 35 messages free on eCards. Group Cards takes care of all of the leg work, chasing, reminding and message compilation to deliver a well-presented card at a time of your choosing. Choose from an eCard, a real card, or design your own. Past customers have said, “I have used Group Cards 4 times and will continue to recommend it to friends and family” and, “Such a brilliant system, so easy to use – we’ll be using it a lot!” Find out more and order your first Group Card at www.groupcards.co.uk.

RSPCA Young Photographer Awards

It’s back! The RSPCA Young Photographer Awards is the RSPCA’s annual animal photography competition for anyone aged 18 years or younger and it’s free to enter. This year’s competition opened in May and closes on 16 August. It’s a fantastic opportunity to get creative this summer. The RSPCA want to encourage young people’s interest in animals and the natural world, as well as to develop their photography skills. No fancy equipment or specialist skills are required to take part – just a love of animals and a keen eye. There are 11 categories to choose from, including the new Schools Challenge where pupils enter individually but also represent their school. The RSPCA crown a winner in each category, an overall winner, and there’s an online public vote in March 2022 for the People’s Choice Award. There are some fantastic prizes to be won, including a UK weekend photography break (for the overall winner and a parent/guardian) with Natures Images, up to £3,000 in Amazon vouchers, certificates and trophies. Judging takes place in September, by a panel of award-winning and professional wildlife photographers including naturalist and broadcaster, Chris Packham, who also hosts the awards ceremony in December. Check out www.rspca.org.uk/ypa for more information.

Market Explorers

Looking for something to keep your kids informed and entertained during the holidays? Borough Market has a great option for you, and one that carries the additional benefit of potentially leading to a half-decent lunch. The Market Explorers series is designed to help primary school children discover more about the produce sold in the Market. Each booklet looks at a specific ingredient, tracing it from field to fork, and includes several delicious child-friendly recipes to prepare at home. The series starts with a quick set of tips for cooking safely with children. The booklets have been devised in collaboration with children’s cooking authors and TV consultants Sally Brown and Kate Morris – the duo behind CBeebies’ I Can Cook and My World Kitchen. There are seven titles – Cook Safely with Children, Cauliflower, Milk, Bread, Honey, Strawberries and Tomatoes. They are all available from the Borough Market website, www.boroughmarket. org.uk/events/market-explorers-2, where you can view each booklet as a digital edition, which also offers the option of downloading as a PDF.

Local News

Cards Multiple People Can Sign from Wherever They Are

Elephants Spread across London!

If you go down to some of London’s parks over the next few weeks you may be even more surprised than you would be by a teddy bear’s picnic. A herd of a hundred elephants will be spread across Green Park, St James’s Park, and Berkeley Square until 23 July. As you may have guessed, the elephants are beautiful statues, not living creatures. The herd were hand-crafted by The Real Elephant Collective – a group of artists and indigenous Adivasi tribals, and have travelled all the way from the Nilgiri Hills of Southern India. Marking the climate change conference COP26, the CoExistence campaign aims to trigger a moment of collective empathy for the world’s biggest and most intelligent land animal, that, like so many magical creatures, now find themselves living in humandominated landscapes. As the herd make their way around the globe, they are telling the story of human encroachment on wild spaces and inspiring the world to find ways to coexist with all the other living beings that make our world magical – from tigers and orangutans to tree sparrows and elephants. Projects made possible by the sale of the sculptures include the securement of wildlife corridors which enable safe movement for animals and people, and the protection of vital indigenous tribal knowledge and livelihoods. Following London, the pachyderm parade will make their way to the USA where they will migrate, in matriarchal fashion, from the east to west coast of America. This stage of their monumental, life-long journey will last 3 years and cover over 13,000 miles. Photo credit: Claire Wood

5 July-31 August 2021

Family Theatre

13-15 Aug

The best shows around... Brookside Theatre Box Office: 01708 755 775 6-11 Jul

The Wizard of Oz The whole family will be captivated as you travel down the yellow brick road and beyond with Dorothy, Toto and their friends the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow in this lavish production.

5 Aug – 5 Sep

The Wolves of Willoughby Chase This production tells the story of two brave and determined girls as they fight against ferocious wolves and battle their way through wastelands to defeat their very evil guardian, Miss Slighcarp. Ages 6+

The Greenhouse Theatre As You Like It

(Selected dates) Free event. The cast of 7 actors create a sense of collectivism and community to help everyone feel part of something while re-kindling a love for the natural world in this all singing, all dancing production.

Greenwich Theatre Box Office: 020 8858 7755 10 Jul

Comedy Club 4 Kids Once again, some of the best comedians from the UK and international circuit head to the Greenwich Theatre stage to do what they do best… but without the rude bits. Ages 6+ 17 – 18 Jul

The Snail and the Whale Join an adventurous young girl and her seafaring father as they re-imagine the story of a tiny snail’s incredible trip around the world, inspired by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved book. 5 July-31 August 2021

8 Aug – 5 Sep

Pinocchio When Mr Cherry delivers a talking log to Gepetto the carpenter to carve, under the watchful eye of his talking cricket, none of them can imagine the adventures that lie ahead. Ages 6+ 19 – 21 Aug

The Adventures of Bo Peep A perfect theatre introduction for your little ones with an interactive story and sensory learning. Look out for a flock of woollen puppets, original music and sheep themed silliness. Ages 2-6.

Kenneth More Ilford Box Office: 020 8553 4466 9-11 Jul

Aladdin Jr Aladdin and his friends are down on their luck until Aladdin discovers a magic lamp and the Genie who has the power

leadership, bravery, humour and love. Two hours of exhilarating entertainment for a summer’s evening.

Apollo Theatre

The Little Mermaid

Box Office: 0330 333 4809 29 Jul – 28 Aug

Gardens

Billionaire Boy

Enjoy Horrible (Also 19–21 Histories: the show! Aug) Based Barmy on Hans And don’t Christian Britain Part forget to say Andersen’s 5 you saw it in most Don’t miss Primary beloved this brandstory and the new production Times! classic animated of Britain’s favourite history film, this fishy fable will show! It’s history with the capture your heart with its nasty bits left in. Ages 5+ irresistible songs, ‘Under the Garrick Theatre Sea’ and ‘Kiss the Girl’. Box Office: 03303 334 811 Myddelton House 17 Jul – 22 Aug cambridgetouring productions.co.uk 17 Jul

Alice in Wonderland

www.canarywharf.com 23 Jul – 15 Aug

to grant three wishes. Aladdin embarks on an adventure in the hope of earning Princess Jasmine’s respect.

(Also 21 Aug) Join Alice as she travels to a wonderful world of caterpillars, cards and tea parties. With toe tapping songs, colourful characters and hilarious comedy, the family are sure to enjoy this production of Lewis Carroll’s classic tale. Outdoor performance.

Westferry Circus www.canarywharf.com 12 Jul

Jane Eyre Charlotte Bronte’s classic tale is brought vividly to life in this new stage adaption. From the cruelty of Jane’s life as a child to the mysterious secrets of her adult life, this is a powerful production played by five actors. 19 Jul

From the award-winning West End producers of Gangsta Granny comes this amazing new production of David Walliams’ best-selling story Billionaire Boy. Ages 5+

London Palladium www.lwtheatres.co.uk Until 5 Sep

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat One of the world’s most beloved family musicals returns to the stage this summer with Jason Donovan as the roof-raising Pharaoh and Alexandra Burke as The Narrator.

Open Air Theatre Regents Park Box Office: www. openairtheatre.com 7 – 24 Jul

Anansi the Spider

HMS Pinafore This wonderful comic opera gets the complete Illyria treatment, faithfully performed with the full score by a reduced cast on a beautiful nautical set. Ages 10+ 26 Jul

Henry V Follow the charismatic King Henry V in this stirring tale of

This retelling of the classic

West African and Caribbean folk tales, for ages 3-7, will be bought vividly to life for all ages to enjoy outdoors on the theatre lawn.

GREENWICH THEATRE PRESENTS

Based on the tale by Carlo

Collodi

Adapted by Anthony Clark Directed by James

Haddrell

SUN 8 AUG - SUN 5 SEP 2021

Adapted by

Based on the novel by

RUSS TUNNEY Directed by

JOAN AIKEN

JAMES HADDRELL

THU 5 AUG - SUN 5 SEP 2021 BOX OFFICE 020 8858 7755 greenwichtheatre.org.uk

Story Seekers The Unicorn Theatre and the National Theatre are launching Story Seekers, a new creative literacy project for primary schools across the UK. Pupils aged 8-11 are invited to join in a nationwide mission to find, tell and share exciting stories from across the globe. Pupils will be led through the quest as they undertake the Story Seekers’ Training Programme guided by filmed theatre performances. There will also be workshops and performances by leading professional storytellers. The mission will end with pupils creating their own filmed storytelling performances to share with their school community, other participating schools across the UK and beyond. Through the challenge, children will explore the rich oral storytelling tradition from the UK and around the world. Available free to UK state schools, this project is designed to take place over six weeks and sit alongside the school curriculum. Continuing professional development (CPD) sessions and curriculumlinked resources developed in partnership with the Centre

for Literacy in Primary Education (CLPE) are provided to support teachers to lead the project. To sign up your school to take part, visit www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/ storyseekers Story Seekers will be offered on a termly basis. Applications to take part during the autumn term are open until 17 September.

5 July-31 August 2021

What’s On

What’s On Your family diary for July and August Due to Covid 19 restrictions please do check with the venue that the listing is up to date before planning your visit.

Ongoing Every Day

Luna Loves Art, Discover Children’s Story Centre, Stratford, E15 4QZ There are 10 bright and colourful artworks to find on a special art trail around Discover. Find the art and make your own pieces inspired by Fiona Lumbers’ illustrations. Pick up a free trail sheet on your way into the Story Worlds and join the trail. For more information visit www.discover.org.uk Children’s Floor Games, Canary Wharf, E14 4SG Alongside Minigolf in Columbus Courtyard, children’s fun floor games return this summer. Whether it’s a colourful hopscotch or space invader line maze, the games are the perfect afternoon entertainment. For more information visit www. canarywharf.com Minigolf, Canary Wharf, E14 4SG 12noon-6pm. Head over to Columbus Courtyard to test your putting skills on a colourful course. With 9 holes to play through it’s the perfect place to show off your minigolf skills to your friends and family. Free of charge. For more information visit www.canarywharf.com

to talk and learn about mental illness. www.families. newham.gov.uk

Until 9 Jul

Summer in Aldgate, Various Locations An exhibition bringing together artworks, film, sound pieces and photography from around the wider community, which will be displayed across local sites and windows. For more information visit www. cityoflondon.gov.uk

Until 11 Jul

Virtual Hidden London Tours, London Transport Museum (Online Event) Explore stations and spaces in London with restricted access, never to be opened to the public. Uncover fascinating stories of London’s transport history with an expert guide on zoom. For more information and to book visit www.ltmuseum. co.uk

Until 16 Jul

The Very Hungry Caterpillar, ZSL London Zoo, Regent’s Park, NW1 4RY ZSL London Zoo is bringing this children’s classic to life with a series of fun activities celebrating the famous picture book and its ravenous, wriggly hero.  For more information and to buy tickets visit www.zsl.org

Every 2nd Wed

Newham Kids Time Workshops, Community Links, Canning Town, E16 4HQ (Excl August) 5-7.30pm. Fun group workshops for children and young people aged 5-18 and their parents/carers, where a parent/carer has a mental illness. They offer a safe, non-judgmental place where families come together 8

5 July-31 August 2021

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

“

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

Until 18 Jul

”

The London City Islander Festival, Hopewell Square, E14 0QG The debut Islander Festival will feature cultural and foodie events paired with screenings of the Wimbledon tennis tournament and blockbuster favourites. All screenings will be played via a giant screen at Hopewell Square. For more information visit www. londoncityisland.com

Until 21 Jul

Paddington Bear’s First Concert, St Martin’s in the Fields (Online Event) St Martin’s Players present a charming musical journey based on the childhood favourite story book which follows Paddington as he meets his friends the Browns and lovely Mr Gruber in London. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.stmartin-inthe-fields.org

Until 23 Jul

PJ Masks at SEA LIFE, Chessington World of Adventures Resort, KT9 2NE It’s time to be a hero. PJ Masks is diving into SEA LIFE at Chessington World of Adventures Resort for the first time ever, with a brand-new Aquarium-wide adventure. Adult and preschooler tickets from £25 (term time weekdays). For more information and to book visit www.chessington. com

Until 31 Jul

Outdoor Stay and Play, Colombo Centre, South Bank, SE1 8DP (Fri 10.45am-12noon). Meet other families in a relaxed environment.You and your child can take part in different activities including creative play, physical activities, exploration and imaginative play. For more information and to book visit www. coinstreet.org

Until 1 Aug

Kidz World, Valentines Park, Ilford, IG1 4TG (Open school holidays, weekends and bank holidays) Don’t miss all the new exciting rides at this Parnham fun-fair. Charges apply. For more information visit www. kidsworldilford.co.uk

Until 21 Aug

Summer Lights, Canary Wharf, E14 4SG A colourful exhibition celebrating natural light across the Canary Wharf estate. Free of charge. For more information visit www. canarywharf.com

Until 31 Aug

Brightening up the Borough, Canary Wharf, E14 4SG Join the community campaign to brighten up the spirits of the borough by decorating doors, windows, fences and gardens with vibrant colours and eye-catching designs. For more information and activity pack details visit www. becontreeforever.uk

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 14

Fun Days Out with the Family Commando Dad: Forest School Adventures Epping Ongar Railway

Do you know what a Neovenator is? Of course, you know it’s a dinosaur and you can tell that it’s a ‘New Hunter’.You probably knew that it was first discovered on the Isle of Wight.You may be surprised to hear that it weighed between 1 and 2 tonnes. But you will be delighted to hear that as the UK emerges out of lockdown, the Epping Ongar Railway aims to inspire you and the children with a walking Neovenator, some baby dinosaurs and a small Jurassic area plus a return steam train ride to Ongar and part of the Epping Forest on 18 July and 22 August. Fares are £16 for adults, £8 for children and £75 for a private compartment. Later in the summer the Gruffalo and characters from PAW Patrol will also be making appearances. Check the EOR2374-DinoEvent-90x135mm-001.pdf website, www.eorailway.co.uk, for timetables and fares12:53 and 1 07/06/2021 any special events.

Get outdoors with your kids with Neil and Tara Sinclair in their new book published in paperback on 8 July, priced £10.99.

Suitable for children aged 3 to 13, Commando Dad: Forest School Adventures is a field guide loaded with dozens of activities, games and crafts for you and your troops to enjoy, including build a shelter in the woods, learn to tie knots, make a hotel for creepy crawlies, get creative with leaf printing and share campfire stories. These Forest School mission briefs will make sure your squad learns valuable skills, stays safe and has a lot of fun.

School’s Out for Summer...

Embrace the tried-and-tested Commando Dad approach to parenting and embark on some unforgettable outdoor adventures. Neil Sinclair is an ex-Commando, qualified childminder and dad of three. He is the author of the bestselling parenting guide Commando Dad: Basic Training.

www.parnhamfunfairs.co.uk

KIDSZ WORLD Family Wristband Fair

Come and see the

Dinosaurs at the Railway

OPEN EVERY WEEKEND & EVERY DAY OF SCHOOL BANK HOLIDAYS

VALENTINNETRSANPCEA· IGR1 4KSD E M SESSION TIMES: 1.00-4.30pm and 4.00-8.00pm

ELBOURNE ROAD

18 July and 22 August Featuring a Neoventar!

Sun 1st AU Mon 12th APRIL toRD and GANTS HILLG LFO Nearest Stations - I Come and

123 128 145 179 296 364 366 396 462 679

OPEN 1 - 8pm

Celebrate

MUBARAK

BIGGER & BETTER VALUE!

STAY ALERT > CONTROL THE VIRUS > SAVE LIVES

COVID-19 SAFE FAIR

www.eorailway.co.uk 01277 365200 Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

• HAND SANITISERS THROUGHOUT THE FAIR • LIMITED NUMBERS AT EACH SESSION TO ALLOW SOCIAL DISTANCING • REGULAR SANITISING OF RIDES • PLEASE STAY AWAY IF FEELING UNWELL PLEASE ADHERE TO THESE GUIDELINES

Eid al-fitr

facebook.com/johnnys children’s fairs

INSTAGRAM @PARNHAMFUNFAIRS

* GAMES AND ACTIVITIES NOT INCLUDED IN WRISTBAND

*ENTRY BY WRISTBAND ONLY: £2 Non-Riding Wristband. OAP’S & Under 1m FREE ENTRY. SESSION TIMES APPLY.

www.kidsworldilford.co.uk • HOTLINE 07956 245531 5 July-31 August 2021

School’s Out for Summer...

Buckingham Palace Garden Opens to Visitors

The garden at Buckingham Palace will open to visitors from July to September this year, allowing the grounds of Her Majesty The Queen’s official London residence to be explored through a self-guided tour for the first time. Visitors will be free to explore a route through the garden that encompasses the 156 metre Herbaceous Border, plane trees planted by and named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert and views of the island and its beehives across the 3.5 acre lake. The unique opportunity to enjoy a picnic on one of the sweeping lawns will be part of the visit. Features in the southwest of the garden, including the Rose Garden, summer house and wildflower meadow, can be viewed through one of the guided tours that will run each day. Special guided tours of Buckingham Palace will also be available.Visitors will see many of the Palace’s magnificent State Rooms, furnished with some of the greatest treasures of the Royal Collection including paintings by Benjamin West and Franz Xaver Winterhalter, exquisite Sèvres porcelain and some of the finest English and French furniture in the world. From July, access to the garden will be included in the visit. For those who can’t visit the official residences in person, a programme of live online events is now available. Led by expert guides and streamed live from Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. ‘A Warden’s Welcome’ interactive talks will reveal the history and stories of the Palaces through exclusive images and film footage. Photo credit: John Campbell

Make Memories Close to Home This Summer

Essex has all the outdoor space and places you need to reconnect with your friends and family and create those special moments we have all been missing over the past year. There is so much to enjoy, from the attractions we all hold dear, to hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. Discover your favourite spot in over 350-miles of coastline. Relish some retail therapy and scrumptious food at one of the town or outlet centres. Go wild and explore zoos, farms and castles. Essex is truly spoilt for choice with visitor attractions. From animal encounters at Colchester Zoo to the many farms like Old MacDonald’s Farm, as well as wildlife sanctuaries, there’s something for all the animal lovers in the family. Step back in time and soak up the atmosphere at some of Essex’s heritage attractions for a day out with a difference. Enjoy the buildings and gardens at Audley End, Layer Marney Tower and Hedingham Castle and be enchanted by RHS Hyde Hall and Beth Chatto gardens or Essex Country Parks. Love Local this summer and remember that many places will require you to book in advance.Visit www.visitessex.com to inspire and plan your days out.

Travel the World at ZSL London Zoo

While international travel may remain tricky this summer, visitors to ZSL London Zoo can instead take a globetrotting tour of discovery through the continents, coming face to face with amazing animals from South America, Africa, Asia and the oceans in-between. From Saturday 24 July to Tuesday 31 August, intrepid explorers can check in at the on-site ‘Travel Agency’ to plan their trip, before being issued with a special London Zoo ‘passport’ , collecting travel stamps and learning about the world’s wildlife along the way. Explore the sights and sounds of a traditional Indian high street and train station, encountering a pride of endangered Asiatic lions in Land of the Lions. Journey to Indonesia to learn more about critically endangered Sumatran tigers in Tiger Territory, discovering the beauty of Indonesian shadow puppetry along the way, before visiting the Pacific coastlines of Peru and Chile to meet the Zoo’s colony of Humboldt penguins in Penguin Beach, or surrounding yourself with South American butterflies and moths in Butterfly Paradise. Head into Africa where safari guides will introduce you to pygmy hippos, giraffes and the elusive okapi, then pass a waterfall on your way to Rainforest Life, where you’ll find South American tamanduas, twotoed sloths and golden-headed lion tamarin monkeys. Take a rest under the ocean at the Zoo’s Sensory Station, filled with the soothing sights and sounds of a peaceful underwater world, before being mesmerised by the new coral aquarium in Tiny Giants, where blue tangs and clownfish swim amongst colourful corals. Travel the World at ZSL London Zoo is the perfect alternative to an overseas trip this year, and is free with Zoo entry. Book your summer tickets now at www.zsl.org Photo credit: ZSL London Zoo 10

5 July-31 August 2021

London’s FREE outdoor arts festival

27 AUGUST - 11 SEPTEMBER E: , FRE dance , s us, me circ et ga , & e str eatre ! th ore m

festival.org/ gdif @GDIFestival

EAT ‘GR KIDS’ T: R FO WS A O SH

28 AUGUST: Eltham & Deptford 29 AUGUST: Greenwich 30 AUGUST: Thamesmead 1 & 2 SEPTEMBER: Plumstead 11 SEPTEMBER: Woolwich & Royal Docks in partnership with

It’s been a long wait but Kiddiewinks Soft Play are very much back in business. Situated on the first floor of Romford Shopping Hall, the place is filled with children and many happy parents making new friends and most of all having fun and playing over the 3 floor play frame for children up to the age of 8. There’s also a smaller area for your tiny tots up to the age of 3. Parents can seek solace over a cup of coffee, a piece of cake and a chat. Kiddiewinks offer a lovely kids menu so you can also forget the cooking! Pre-booking is essential as Kiddiewinks are working to restricted numbers following Covid guidelines and social distancing. Entry costs just £6 per child any day any time (just for now!). Kiddiewinks are looking forward to seeing you and your Kiddiewinks very soon. Did you know you can also hire the whole place for a max of 25 children for just £150 for an hour and half? Give Kiddiewinks a call on 01708 760 714 for more details quoting ‘Primary Times’. You’ll find Kiddiewinks above Romford Shopping Hall, 43 Market Place, Romford. To find out more, visit www.kiddiewinkssoftplay.com.

ONE PRICE FOR ALL £6.00 SUITABLE UP TO AGE OF 8 PRE BOOKING ESSENTIAL SCAN THE QR CODE play venue ORfor VISITkids

Romford’s NEW soft to make friends and have loads of fun! WWW.KIDDIEWINKSSOFTPLAY.COM ONE PRICE FOR ALL £6.00 SUITABLE UP TO AGE OF 8 PRE BOOKING ESSENTIAL SCAN THE QR CODE OR VISIT WWW.KIDDIEWINKSSOFTPLAY.COM

School’s Out for Summer...

Kiddiewinks Soft Play at Romford Shopping Hall

Romford Shopping Hall, 43 Market Place Romford, RM1 3AB • 01708 760 714 ONE PRICE FOR ALL £6.00 enquiries@kiddiewinkssoftplay.com SUITABLE UP TO AGE OF 8 PRE BOOKING ESSENTIAL SCAN THE QR CODE OR VISIT

WWW.KIDDIEWINKSSOFTPLAY.COM

.com/local

5 July-31 August 2021

ONE SUI PRE

WWW

ON SU PR

Award Winning Books The winners of this year’s CILIP Carnegie and Kate Greenaway Medals, the UK’s oldest book awards for children and young people, have been announced. The Medals celebrate outstanding achievement in children’s writing and illustration respectively and are unique in being judged by librarians. This year, both winning books explore urban landscapes through a child’s eyes. Look Both Ways by Jason Reynolds features ten intertwining, interconnecting stories from the international bestselling author Jason Reynolds about those 15 minutes of unsupervised independence, the walk home from school. From ‘The Low Cuts’ on Placer Street stealing pocket change, to big Simeon and little Kenzi’s brotherhood bond and secret handshake on Chestnut Street, to Pia Foster’s skateboarding interrupted on Bastion Street, Look Both Ways tells the stories of twenty different kids and the lives they live. Look Both Ways is a really exciting piece of storytelling aimed at readers aged 9 and over. Publishers’ Weekly described it as, “In Reynolds’s signature style, each story rings with emotional authenticity and empathy, and not a small amount of rib-tickling humour offsets the sometimes-bittersweet realities of the characters’ lives.” Jason Reynolds is the US National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature and this is his first Carnegie Medal win. Look Both Ways is published by Knights Of at a price of £6.99 for the paperback original. Small in the City comes from multi-award winning illustrator Sydney Smith. Being small can be overwhelming in a city. People don’t see you. The loud sounds of the sirens and cyclists can be scary. And the streets are so busy it can make your brain feel like there’s too much stuff in it. But if you know where to find good hiding places, warm dryer vents that blow out hot steam that smells like summer, music to listen to or friends to say hi to, there can be comfort in the city, too. Follow the little protagonist, who knows all about what it’s like to be small in the city, as he gives his best advice for surviving there. As you turn the pages, Sydney Smith’s masterful storytelling allows you to glimpse exactly who this advice is for, leading to a powerful, heartrending realisation... Small in the City is published by Walker Books in hardback at £12.99.

5 July-31 August 2021

Education News

101 Playground Games

During an average primary school day in the UK, children spend up to 20% of their time playing. That means that 1.4 years of primary school attendance is spent in the playground, which equates to 260 full school days. This provides an opportunity for one-fifth of a child’s time at school to be used to support their recovery from the effects of a year living through a pandemic, and for schools to make playtime more than just a break. Education specialist Thérèse Hoyle’s new book ‘101 Playground Games’ gives teachers and others tips to organise playtimes which offer children the opportunity to rebuild their social skills, bond with the friends they have not spent much time with over the last year, and develop their ability to think creatively and independently in the wake of a year spent in lockdown. Primary Times spoke to Thérèse Hoyle who told us, “This generation of children has had their personal and social development interrupted like no generation before them. Losing the ability to see and interact with friends, family, acquaintances and strangers for months at a time has meant they have missed out on thousands of opportunities to develop their social skills and benefit from the fun and joy that playing with others brings.” 101 Playground Games can help primary schools to dramatically improve the quality of day-to-day playtimes and lunchtimes, with impacts on lunchtime behaviour, engagement, learning, social, emotional, mental and physical health and wellbeing. 101 Playground Games offers enriching activities to encourage active learning and social development among young children at playtime. It provides a practical toolkit of ideas to promote lively and enjoyable games and provides clear instructions for adults on how to organise those games. 101 Playground Games by Thérèse Hoyle is on sale now at a recommended price of £24.99.

You Are Not Alone

A group of school leaders has launched a book that shares their experiences of being Black, Asian and minority ethnic teachers and leaders, and the difficulties and barriers they have faced in education. ‘You Are Not Alone: Leaders for Race Equality’ is based on the personal experiences of fourteen leaders in education from Asian, African, Caribbean and multiple backgrounds. It includes personal and challenging stories of the discrimination faced as both leaders and individuals. Through school, university, interviews and promotion, the stories show how individuals have often had to prove themselves at every

Why You Should Choose Gatehouse School

Choosing a school for your child is probably one of the most important decisions you are going to make as a parent. What makes Gatehouse a special school is its atmosphere, the families and the teachers, who play a core role in each pupil’s educational journey. Gatehouse has caring and dedicated professionals who above all else want to provide the very best for all their children. They are very proud of the non-selective and inclusive ethos, which with the help of their talented staff ensure that each child’s natural curiosity about the world is encouraged and expanded. Much of Gatehouse’s success is linked to a blend of traditional values and modern educational principles. Children at Gatehouse enter a journey where they are valued as individuals, through a positive and personalised approach to teaching and learning. These children acquire a positive sense of self, determination and, above all, enthusiasm to learn and do their very best. Find out more about Gatehouse School at www.gatehouseschool.co.uk.

Send Your Child to Clarssroom’s Summer School

Education News

step on the way to leadership and have faced both overt and covert racism from others. It also, ultimately, expresses their messages of hope. The aim is not just to inform those who may not realise how racism is experienced today, but also to inspire those who might not consider school leadership if they do not see themselves represented. One head teacher told Primary Times, “One clear example of unconscious bias is the number of times I have turned up to greet a visitor in reception in a suit and tie, and they presume I’m a Teaching Assistant. This has happened to me on numerous occasions, in numerous leadership positions, in numerous schools, in numerous local authorities. I do not know of any white leaders in education who have ever been mistaken for a Teaching Assistant, but do you know how many non-white leaders of education I know who have had the same experience? You’ve guessed it… numerous.” Originating from school leaders’ union NAHT’s first equality network for Black, Asian and minority ethnic members, the book is a personal and authentic presentation of the discussions and experiences shared in the group.

Very soon school children all over the country will begin their summer holidays. As a parent/guardian, you know that the summer holidays are simply a pause in your child’s ongoing formal education. You want to ensure that they are in the best shape academically for the next school year. That is where Clarssroom’s Summer School comes in. Clarssroom’s Summer School provides an avenue for focused learning to plug learning gaps as well as providing a healthy blend of structured learning (key subjects, standard syllabuses etc.) and leisure activities. Tutors can work on specific key topics or areas of concern that you or your child might have and that focused work will lead to more notable progress over time. The targeted tutoring approach means that your child will grow in their knowledge and confidence in core subjects and will get a head-start in those subjects, ahead of the new school year in September. The work your children and their tutors will have put in over the summer months will put them in a great position to achieve excellent results at 4+, 5+, 7+ and 11+ entrance exams, if that is the desired goal. You don’t have to worry about finding childcare for your children whilst you are at work. You can rest assured, knowing that they are in a safe, healthy and productive environment at Clarssroom. Call now on 020 3991 6110 or visit www.clarssroom.co.uk/ summerschool

Do not underestimate the power of READING

Read & Write with Bo Peep

Throughout the Summer holidays! Online individual and group sessions available For students aged 6-16. From as little as £5! 01444 391220/info@bopeeplearning.co.uk or visit www.bopeeplearning.co.uk

Gatehouse School An Independent Co-Educational Day School and Nursery

The Frances Bardsley Academy for Girls, Brentwood Road, Romford, RM1 2RR Available on Saturday 10 July. Phone for further dates. 9.30am & 11.30am

OPEN DAY

CALL NOW ON 020 3991 6110

Monday 27th September 2021 9.30 am to 11.00 am To book your place, please call 020 980 2978 or email admissions@gatehouseschool.co.uk

5 July-31 August 2021

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for July and August

Ongoing Until 12 Sep

Take One Picture, National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN This summer, the National Gallery will showcase artworks by primary school children across the UK in the 26th annual Take One Picture exhibition. The programme aims to put art at the centre of children’s learning across the curriculum. For more information visit www. nationalgallery.org.uk

Until 26 Sep

Van Gogh Alive - The Experience, Kensington Gardens, SW7 2AP Immerse yourself in the life of the renowned artist Vincent Van Gogh, as his iconic paintings come to life in a multi-sensory experience with a thrilling display of over 3,000 inspirational images. For more information and to book tickets visit www. vangoghaliveuk.com

Until 30 Sept

Summer by the River, Various Locations The riverside between London Bridge and Tower Bridge will be home to alfresco drinking and eating pop-ups - before opening up with a full-packed programme of free entertainment, screenings and activities. For more information and to see what’s on visit www. londonbridgecity.co.uk

July Sat 3 Jul- Sat 4 Sep

New Town Culture :) :-D& :-O, Valence House Museum, Dagenham, RM8 3HT This Art for Young People (Adults Welcome) free exhibition is a place for young

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

people to relax, talk and be creative. New Town Culture is a pioneering initiative building connections between art, culture and frontline social care services. For more information visit www. valencehousecollections.co.uk

Mon 5- Mon 26 Jul

Outdoor Theatre, Canary Wharf, Westferry Circus, E14 8RP Every Mon in July, enjoy free performances of classic plays from Shakespeare, Bronte, Wilde and Gilbert and Sullivan. Take along a picnic and be transported to new and wonderful worlds as dusk falls on Canary Wharf. For more information visit www. canarywharf.com

Wed 7 Jul

Barkingside Art Club, Fullwell Cross Library, Ilford, IG6 2EA (Also 14, 21, 28 July) Regular after school art workshops for children to learn and practice a variety of art techniques using an extensive range of materials. Juniors (4-7 yrs) 4-5pm, (8-16 yrs) 5.15-6.45pm. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www. barkingsideartclub.com

From 8 Jul

Re-opening, HMS Belfast, SE1 2JH HMS Belfast re-opens this summer with an improved visitor offer. Explore new displays and exhibition spaces,

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discover crew members’ stories and enjoy interactive experiences. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.iwm.org.uk/visits/ hms-belfast

Fri 9 Jul – Sun 19 Sep

Buckingham Palace and Garden Tour, SW1A 1AA Explore Buckingham Palace Garden with unique access this summer and a once-in-alifetime opportunity to picnic with views of the Palace. You can take your own picnic or purchase delicious refreshments in the garden. For more information and to book visit www.rct.uk

Sat 10 Jul

UEFA Festival, Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN Join the fun at Trafalgar Square Fan Zone, open for all the England games. You’ll find big screens, an exciting range of activities and tasty food. There will also be an afternoon of live entertainment the day before the final. For more information and to book a free ticket visit www.london. gov.uk Wild World Hero’s, Redbridge Libraries, Various Locations The free Summer Reading Challenge is teaming up with WWF to help prevent the summer reading ‘dip’. Sign up at your local library, choose a reading goal (6 recommended), and collect stickers and rewards along the way. For more information visit www. visionrcl.org.uk

Sun 11 Jul

Sunday Art Club, Fullwell Cross Library, Ilford, IG6 2EA (Also 18, 25 and 28 Jul) 11am12.15pm. Children will learn and practice a variety of art

techniques using an extensive range of materials. Taught under close guidance. Ages 4-7. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www.barkingsideartclub.com ‘Aziza’s Secret Fairy Door’ Storytime and Craft Session, Discover Children’s Story Centre, E15 4QZ (Also 18 and 25 Jul). Find out how the story authors, Tolá and Jasmine created this new world before getting stuck into your own crafty projects. Ages 4-8. Free with session pass. For more information visit www.discover.org.uk Preview: The Croods: A New Age (PG), BFI Southbank, SE1 8XT 12noon. In this family screening enjoy this hotly anticipated follow-up to 2013’s first instalment, which promises comedy and adventure galore. For more information and to book visit www.whatson.bfi.org.uk

Mon 12-Sun 18 Jul

City Island Summer Cinema, Hopewell Square, E14 0QG Go along to enjoy openair screenings of some family favourites including The Greatest Showman, Moana, Paddington and the Incredibles 2 on a giant screen surrounded by a variety of food choices to snack on during the showing. For the film schedule visit www.londoncityisland.com

Mon 12 Jul – Sun 12 Sep

Homes of the Future: Building Becontree 2121 (Online) Valence House Museum invites participants to design the ultimate cutting edge house for the Becontree Estate. Draw your design, build with LEGO, craft it in 3D with cardboard, paint or design it digitally on the computer. To enter visit www. valencehousecollections.co.uk/ competition-corner For lots more What’s On ideas see page 16...

Due to Covid 19 restrictions please do check with the venue that the listing is up to date before planning your visit. 14

5 July-31 August 2021

Win a box of books for your school

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

Win a Family Ticket to Answer the call of the wild at Chessington World of Adventures Resort. Gasp, giggle, shriek and scream as you see and do things you’ve never seen or done before. Stare wideeyed encountering endangered animals and even brave the new JAW-dropping adventure in 2021 - Croc Drop. Will you brave the drop to release the curse? Croc Drop joins the ride line-up of over 40 attractions, alongside family favourites such as Elmer’s Flying Jumbos. Can’t wait to visit? Tickets must be pre-booked in advance at www.chessington.com. For your chance to win a family ticket, tell us the name of Chessington’s new ride. For detals of how to enter, please see the bottom of this page.

Win a Tablet with Tiny Pop’s Monster-Saurus Summer

Join Elmo, Cookie Monster, Gonger and more for exciting adventures every day with Tiny Pop’s Monster-Saurus Summer!

To celebrate a whole summer of fun on Tiny Pop, we’re giving one lucky reader an Amazon Fire 7 Tablet! To be in with a chance of winning this Find the G R U A S M O fabulous prize, all you need to do is following V O Y K C I R complete and cut out the word search. words Then fill out the form with your details • Cookie A Y R E G N O • Monster and send them both to Tiny Pop R E O L D R C • Gonger Competition, Primary Times, Y S M K I Y K • Elmo 7 Southbrook Mews, London SE12 8LG. The closing date is Friday 23 July. Or • Tiny • Roy T M L M N B Y scan a copy of your completed form • Rocky • Ricky F E E I K O O • Tyra • Esme and email it to competitions@ • MomSaur primarytimes.biz with ‘Tiny Pop’ as R E T S N O M the subject. Watch Elmo’s World, Cookie Monster’s Foodie Truck, Esme & Roy, Gigantosaurus, DinoCity and lots lots more, every day from 24 July on Tiny Pop! Available on Freeview 207, Youview 207, Sky 615, Virgin 737 and Freesat 605.

M H G P C D C 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 competition name as the subject by Friday 23 July 2021. If you are entering more than one competition you can put all entries in the same envelope.

5 July-31 August 2021

Competitions

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for July and August

July Thurs 15 Jul-Sun 22 Aug

Dodge, Somerset House, Strand, WC2R 1LA Turbo-charge your summer at Somerset House with a thrilling new open-air experience. Featuring dodgems with a difference, bold installations from acclaimed artists and a delicious selection of food and drinks. For more information and to book tickets visit www. somersethouse.org.uk

Sat 17 Jul

Relaxed Opening, Tower Bridge Experience, SE1 2UP Experience a quieter and calmer Tower Bridge once a month on a Sat for anyone who would like to explore the Bridge in a calm, tranquil atmosphere, including people with autism and any other needs. For times and to book visit www.towerbridge.org.uk Boat Builders, Tower Bridge Experience, SE1 2UP 10am-4pm. (Also 27 Jul and 3, 10, 17, 21, 24 Aug).Go along to one of the Family Activity Days and make an origami boat which you can then add to the giant fleet located on the Glass Floor. Activities take place in a dedicated space for families. For more information visit www. towerbridge.org.uk

Sun 18 Jul

Dinosaurs at the Railway, Epping Ongar Railway, North Weald Station, CM16 6BT (Also 22 Aug) See the Neovenator as you arrive at North Weald station, visit the mini Jurassic Jungle, take a steam hauled train ride to Ongar and into the ancient Epping Forest and meet the

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

baby dinosaurs on board the train. For more information and to book visit www. eorailway.co.uk London to Brighton Electric Vehicle Rally Starting on the banks of the River Thames and finishing at Madeira Drive, Brighton, the event is open to participants with electric vehicles of all types, shapes and sizes, with prizes for the lowest energy consumption in all classes. To find out more visit www.londontobrighton electricvehiclerally.com Discover Sundays, National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, SE10 9NF 10.30am, 12noon, 2pm and 3.30pm. Join in make and take artist-led activities, discover new stories inspired by the museum’s collections and create your own crafts. Suitable for all ages. Free except a £1 booking fee. For more information and to book visit www.rmg.co.uk/ national-maritime-museum

Fri 23 Jul – Sun 15 Aug

The Greenhouse Theatre, Jubilee Park, Canary Wharf, E14 5NY This summer Canary Wharf welcomes the UK’s first zero waste performance space to Jubilee Park. This award winning venue will be built on-site made entirely from found and recycled

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materials. For details of the free of charge performances at this venue visit www. thegreenhousetheatre.com

Sat 24 Jul

Tree Climbing Song Sessions, Epping Forest Visitor Centre, Chingford, E4 7QH (Also 25 Jul, 7, 8, 21, 22 Aug) Take part in a one hour climbing session with the support of an expert climbing instructor and learn a fun and simple group song. The session will finish with a singalong from the treetops. Ages 8+. For more information and to book visit www.artsandgardens.org

Sat 24 Jul – Sun 29 Aug

Summer of Play, National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, SE10 9NF (Selected dates) 10.30am4pm. This summer join playful workshops in the grounds on Thursdays, and inside on Sundays. Discover the collection and maritime history through playful, creative activities that encourage families to explore together. For more information and to book visit www.rmg.co.uk

Sat 24 Jul – Tues 31 Aug

Travel the World at ZSL London Zoo, Regent’s Park, NW1 4RY Intrepid explorers can check in at the on-site ‘Travel Agency’ to plan their trip, before being issued with a special London Zoo ‘passport’ and beginning their global adventure - collecting travel stamps and learning about the world’s wildlife along the way. To book visit www.zsl.org/ zsl-london-zoo

Story Seekers, Imperial War Museum, SE1 6HZ 10am-3pm.Your family can discover real artefacts and find moving and surprising stories from people who braved shark-infested waters to ingenious nurses and those who built machines of conflict. Free event with general admission. To buy tickets visit www.iwm.org.uk

Sun 25 Jul

Peppa Pig and George Visit, Epping Ongar Railway, North Weald Station, CM16 6BT See Peppa Pig and George on the platform before taking a ride on a heritage steam train through the Essex countryside and into the historic Epping Forest. Resident magician, John, will be on board the train to keep you entertained during the journey. For times and to book visit www.eorailway. co.uk

Mon 26 – Fri 30 Jul

Under the Sea Workshop, Redbridge Drama Centre, South Woodford, E18 2RB (Also 2 – 6 Aug) An energetic 5 day intensive workshop held by experienced Musical Theatre teachers. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www. redbridgedramacentre.co.uk Anna Fiorentini Summer School, Chobham Academy, Stratford, E20 1BD (Also Mon 16- Fri 20 Aug). Enjoy a fun packed week spending time creating your own musicals and take part in a dazzling performance for family and friends at the end of the week. Limited spaces left. To book call 020 7682 1403 or visit www. afperformingarts.com

Tues 27 Jul

Boat Builders, Tower Bridge Experience, SE1 2UP 10am-4pm. Join in the fun on this Family Activity Day to make an origami boat and For lots more What’s On ideas see page 18...

Due to Covid 19 restrictions please do check with the venue that the listing is up to date before planning your visit. 16

5 July-31 August 2021

t ’ a s h N ew W Bounce Your Way Green

If you look at pollution in the Mediterranean Sea, 95% of the waste in its waters is plastic. Similar problems are being experienced all around the planet, and it’s never too early to show children how to look after the environment.The new BioBall from Mondo, a multinational group with over 70 years of experience in the toy market, is the only ball made with a new bio-based formula, which replaces 50% of fossil-derived substances with a renewable sourced plant derivative.The new formula not only makes it the ﬁrst green ball, but also contributes to improving its ﬂexibility and, consequently, its playability.

Epic Cereal Box Creations

Planet Junko is on a mission to show that toys can be both fun and eco-friendly. Kids can use their creativity and freedom to make their own projects that can be incorporated into existing play and toys. With Epic Cereal Box Creations, children can make almost anything, whether it’s a car, a space helmet or a unicorn. All that’s needed is a cereal box, a pencil and scissors.When ﬁnished playing, just recycle the card.To prove that toys can be exciting and sustainable, get your copy of Epic Cereal Box Creations, available at a recommended price of 14.99 from www. amazon.co.uk/junko.You get a pack with lots of ideas, clear instructions and 30 reusable ‘magic corners’.

Anyone for a Mud Pie?

Get your younger ones away from the screens with the Create & Play Wooden Mud Kitchen from Great Little Trading Company.With this stylishly designed kitchen on hand in the garden, mud pies will most deﬁnitely be on the menu! Part play kitchen, part activity centre, it offers 360 degrees of fun.With room for children to ‘cook’ or pot plants on one side and draw and paint on the other, there’s lots to keep them entertained while being out in the fresh air.There’s even a beautifully illustrated weather station on the side for budding meteorologists.The Create & Play Wooden Mud Kitchen is available for £160 from www. gltc.co.uk.

Eco-Friendly Mini Builds

Build Your Own Mini Builds are a new set of four exciting eco-friendly kits that children will have great fun building with their grownups. Designed by award-winning Build Your Own, the Mini Builds are made from 100% sustainable cardboard and paper, and once assembled, deliver maximum fun. Build your own honey bee, ladybird, stag beetle or dragonﬂy. Promoting less tech and more family time, the Mini Builds are designed for children aged 8+ but are ideal as a family activity, where quality time can be fun and educational. Collaborative team activities help to develop essential skills which children can use in class, with friends and in later life.These innovative plastic-free kits come with everything you need inside the box. Once a child has built them, they make a great addition to a bedroom.These Build Your Own kits cost £9.99 each and are available from www.buildyourownkits.com.

On Your Marks, Get Set… Gold!

Find out everything you could possibly need to know about becoming an Olympic and Paralympic star with this exciting guide to the Games! If you want to become a pro footballer or throw a brilliant karate chop, this book is for you. From every funny and fact ﬁlled page you can ﬁnd out about each sport, skills to pick up and equipment needed to become a pro. Have you got what it takes? On Your Marks, Get Set… Gold! is written by Scott Allen and illustrated by Antoine Corbineau, and is available to buy from high street bookstores and Amazon.

PAW Patrol Adventure City Calls

Watch out for ‘PAW Patrol Adventure City Calls’, a brand new video game based on the new film ‘PAW Patrol:The Movie’.When the PAW Patrol learns that Mayor Humdinger has taken over a buzzing metropolis, they must save Adventure City from his selfish scheming. Grab a friend and play as Chase, Marshall, Skye, and new city girl Liberty and use their unique abilities in high-stakes rescue missions, deploy next-level gadgets and vehicles to explore the city and help the pups on the bravest mission yet. Have even more fun with minigames like ‘Pup Pup Boogie’. Children who love PAW Patrol will be treated to more action-packed adventures with the first full-length feature film ‘PAW Patrol:The Movie’ coming to the big screen on 20 August. ‘PAW Patrol: Adventure City Calls’ launches on 13 August on PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, Xbox and PC Digital priced at £34.

Travel Around the World

Do you have a budding explorer or a mini conservationist who has endless questions about our planet? Do they love to play David Attenborough? Great Little Trading Company’s new Around the World range might be just the thing to ignite their curiosity. Whether on the wall or on the ﬂoor, these beautiful maps incorporate amazing detail from the continents to the oceans and the animals who share our planet alongside us. The range includes the Around the World wall hanging, printed on thick, cotton canvas and featuring beautiful embroidered and tufted details priced at £50. The Around the World rug, priced at £185, is handcrafted and ﬁnished from 100% natural wool for maximum cosiness and extra durability. The thick wool is soft on little knees and toes, providing the perfect place for children to sit and play.

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for July and August

July

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

add your very own vessel to Tower Bridge’s paper boat flotilla. For more information and to buy tickets visit www. towerbridge.org.uk

Wed 28 Jul – Wed 8 Sep

Brass on the Grass Lunchtime Concerts, Westminster Abbey, SW1P 3PA (12noon-2pm every Wed) These free bass band concerts are a great way to spend a Wednesday lunchtime. With each band providing a broad and varied programme every week, there’s something for everyone. For more information visit www. westminster-abbey.org

Sat 31 Jul

Fairlop Fair, Fairlop Waters Country Park, Ilford, IG6 3HN 11am-6pm. Family fun for everyone with attractions including art and crafts, funfair, sports activities, workshops, Aquabounce, road train, stage performances and food stalls. For more information visit www.visionrcl.org.uk

Water Rokit Turn your children’s old drinks bottles into a fun and educational toy. The Water Rokit is designed to bring science alive for children and schools throughout the world. They won’t even notice that they are exploring Newton’s Laws of motion, acceleration and trajectory as they play. All you need is your Water Rokit kit, an old carbonated drinks bottle, some water, a bicycle pump or a stirrup pump and some open space. The Water Rokit has been designed to launch itself automatically at a set pressure, and is engineered to do this repeatedly. The Original Rokit is a visual, value for money and handson product which brings fun and enthusiasm when teaching pupils of all ages – it’s why so many schools use Rokit as part of their core curriculum since way back in 1983. It’s also a family favourite for real fresh air fun - with kids racing to collect rockets from far afield. The perfect summer holiday treat. Find out more at www.waterrokit.com.You can buy your Water Rokit from the website or from other online and high street retailers. The complete kit costs £10.95.

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across London’s Royal Parks. Recommended for children I saw your aged 3 to 11 years and their event in families. For more information Primary Times.... visit www.royalparks.org.uk/ Please mention you missioninvertebrate

saw the event listed in Tues 3 Aug Boat Builders, Tower Bridge Primary Times

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The Greatest Showman (PG), Luna Cinema, Westminster Abbey, SW1P 3PA Doors open at 7.30pm, performance starts at 9pm. Your toes will be tapping non-stop in this modern musical tale of PT Barnum’s circus, starring Zac Efron, Zendaya and Hugh Jackman. For more information and to book tickets visit www. westminster-abbey.org Family SEND Explorer Events, London Transport Museum, WC2E 7BB (Also 21 Aug) Enjoy the museum at a quieter time, free from the general public, and with many of the gallery sounds turned off. Get hands on with genuine parts of transport history or make use of the sensory bags to support exploring the collection. Advance booking essential. For more information visit www. ltmuseum.co.uk The Party of Possibilities with Jess Thom, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX 2pm. Music, cabaret, spoken word, dance, theatre, comedy and memorable mischief come together in a day of inclusive creativity and chance encounters for all ages. Free. For more information visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

August Sun 1 – Tues 31 Aug Mission: Invertebrate, Royal Parks, London 11am-3pm. Discover the fascinating world of London’s bugs this summer as the Royal Parks’ Mission: Invertebrate goes on tour

Experience, SE1 2UP 10am-4pm. Join in the fun on this Family Activity Day to make an origami boat and add your very own vessel to Tower Bridge’s paper boat flotilla. For more information and to buy tickets visit www. towerbridge.org.uk

Sat 7 – Sun 8 Aug

Family Fun Weekend – Summer of Play!, Cutty Sark, Greenwich, SE10 9HT Go along and learn all about how sailors enjoyed themselves on board Cutty Sark. There will be sea shanty singers, live actors, facilitated craft activities, and more for you to enjoy. Ages 4+. Free with admission. For more information and to book visit www.rmg.co.uk

Sun 8 Aug

Our Community Festival, Barley Lane Recreation Ground, Ilford, IG3 8TG 12noon–5pm.Go along to the Community Festival for a fun packed day out. Attractions include art and crafts, funfair, sports activities, workshops, Gamers Bus, food and drink stalls and stage performances. For more information visit www.visionrcl.org.uk Paw Patrol Visit, Epping Ongar Railway, North Weald Station, CM16 6BT See Chase and Marshall on the platform before taking a ride on a heritage steam train through the Essex countryside and into the historic Epping Forest. Resident magician, John, will be on board the train to keep you entertained during the journey. For times and to book visit www.eorailway. co.uk

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

Due to Covid 19 restrictions please do check with the venue that the listing is up to date before planning your visit. 18

5 July-31 August 2021

Film Preview Guide Daisy Quokka Daisy Quokka is a cute and colourful family adventure from the team behind Peter Rabbit. When an unbearably adorable, eternally optimistic Quokka named Daisy wants to achieve the impossible – to win the annual ‘World’s Scariest Animal’ championship, she enlists the guidance of a washed-up, former champion, a grouchy Saltwater Crocodile, to help her achieve her dreams and prove that champions can come in all sizes. Daisy Quokka is in cinemas now.

Extinct Op and Ed are sister and brother flummels - cute, furry donut-shaped animals who live on an island in the Galapagos in 1835. Ed, a grumpy pessimist, desperately wants to fit in with the community while Op, overly exuberant, constantly creates havoc that makes them outsiders. Follow them as they plummet through a colourful time portal and pop out into a house in… modern day Shanghai. Meet Clarance, an adorable little dog who isn’t quite as cute as he seems. Op and Ed meet ‘The Extinctables’ - a family of odd, extinct creatures – and with their help, the siblings race against time to stop Clarance’s evil plans and save the flummels. Extinct is released on Sky Cinema on 20 August.

Hotel Transylvania: Transformania Drac and the pack are back, like you’ve never seen them before in Hotel Transylvania:Transformania. Reunite with your favourite monsters for an all-new adventure that presents Drac with his most terrifying task yet.When Van Helsing’s mysterious invention, the ‘Monsterfication Ray’ goes haywire, Drac and his monster pals are all transformed into humans, and Johnny becomes a monster! In their new mismatched bodies, Drac, stripped of his powers, and an exuberant Johnny, loving life as a monster, must team up and race across the globe to find a cure before it’s too late, and before they drive each other crazy.With help from Mavis and the hilariously human Drac Pack, the heat is on to find a way to switch themselves back before their transformations become permanent.Transformania is only at cinemas from 23 July

Jungle Cruise

Moonbound Moonbound is an out-of-this-world family adventure. Think Wall-E meets Over the Moon.This gorgeous and charming new feature animation follows one boy and his sister on a race against time to restore peace to the Milky Way. Based on one of Germany’s most popular children’s books, Moonbound tells the story of little Pete who embarks on an enchanting journey together with June bug Mr Zoomzeman and the Sandman to rescue his little sister from the evil Moon Man. Moonbound is in cinemas nationwide from 6 August.

Space Jam: A New Legacy Welcome to the Jam! NBA champion and global icon LeBron James goes on an epic adventure alongside timeless Tune Bugs Bunny with the animated/live-action event ‘Space Jam:A New Legacy’.This transformational journey is a manic mashup of two worlds that reveals just how far some parents will go to connect with their kids.When LeBron and his young son Dom are trapped in a digital space by a rogue AI, LeBron must get them home safe by leading Bugs, Lola Bunny and the whole gang of notoriously undisciplined Looney Tunes to victory over the AI’s digitised champions on the court: a powered-up roster of professional basketball stars as you’ve never seen them before. It’s Tunes versus Goons as the ready-for-action Tunes destroy convention, supercharge their unique talents and surprise even ‘King’ James by playing the game their own way. Space Jam:A New Legacy will be released nationwide on 16 July. Photo credit: Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures

Spirit Untamed This is an epic adventure about a headstrong girl longing for a place to belong who discovers a kindred spirit when her life intersects with a wild horse. Spirit Untamed is the next chapter in the Spirit story following on from Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron (2002). Lucky Prescott moves back to a sleepy little town with her aunt and she is unimpressed. She has a change of heart when she meets Spirit, a wild Mustang who shares her independent streak, and befriends two local horseback riders.When a heartless horse wrangler and his team plan to capture Spirit and his herd and auction them off to a life of captivity and hard labour, Lucky enlists her new friends and bravely embarks on the adventure of a lifetime to rescue the horse who has given her freedom and a sense of purpose, and has helped Lucky discover a connection to her Mexican heritage that she never expected. Spirit Untamed is released in cinemas on 30 July.

The Croods 2: A New Age

The Croods have survived their fair share When Disney made a film based on a Disneyland of dangers and disasters, from fanged prehistoric beasts to being forced to come ride, Pirates of the Caribbean, it was so successful out into the light and leave their cave forever. that it spawned numerous sequels.The latest ride But now they will face their biggest challenge to get the film treatment is Jungle Cruise, one of of all - another family.The first prehistoric the earliest Adventureland rides and still popular at family sets off into the world in search Disney parks across the world. Dr Lily Houghton of a safer place to call home.When they enlists the aid of wisecracking skipper Frank Wolff discover an idyllic walled-in paradise that meets all their needs, they think to take her down the Amazon in his ramshackle their problems are solved... except for one thing.Another family already lives there, the boat.Together, they search for an ancient tree that Bettermans.When the Bettermans temporarily invite the Croods into their home filled with creature comforts, it isn’t long before tensions escalate between this cave family and holds the power to heal - a discovery that will change the future of medicine.The cast includes Dwayne Johnson, Emily Blunt and Jack Whitehall.The film is due to be in cinemas a modern one. Just when all seems lost, a new threat will propel both families on an epic adventure, one that will force them to embrace their differences, draw strength from each from 30 July. other and forge a future together.The Croods 2:A New Age is released on 16 July. Photo credit: Frank Masi

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for July and August

August Tues 10 Aug

Boat Builders, Tower Bridge Experience, SE1 2UP 10am-4pm. Join in the fun on this Family Activity Day to make an origami boat and add your very own vessel to Tower Bridge’s paper boat flotilla. For more information and to buy tickets visit www. towerbridge.org.uk

Wed 11 – Sun 15 Aug

Congregation, Various Locations Let a magical sonic sphere take you on a journey to a secret location in London Bridge and surrounding areas, guiding you by sound alone. Can you keep the sphere ‘happy’ by going in the right direction? This exciting event is brought to you by Team London Bridge and award winning artist Ray Lee. All ages. To book visit www. unicorntheatre.com

Sat 14 Aug

Becontree 100 Festival, Parsloes Park, Dagenham, RM9 5SA 11am-9.30pm. This free family event will include music, dance, exhibitions, international food stalls, tearoom, arena acts, family fun, rides and attractions. The focus of the festival is to promote unity through the power of music. For full details visit www. becontreeforever.uk

Sun 15 Aug

Roundhouse Music Festival, Parsloes Park, Dagenham, RM9 5SA 12noon- 9.30pm. The festival is back by popular demand with family attractions and big names in music. The main stage will star rock and ska acts from the 60s and 70s

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have up to date details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure the information hasn’t changed. and there will also be family fun, rides and food stalls. For more information visit www. becontreeforever.uk Festival of Fairytales, The Garden Museum, Lambeth, SE1 7LB 10am–2pm and 2.30–6.30pm. This summer, for one day only, the Garden Museum will be transformed into a wonderland of circus, storytelling and magic. Ages 4-10. For more information and to book visit www. gardenmuseum.org.uk

Sun 17 Aug

Sat 21 Aug

ZooNation Presents the Class of 2021: Saturday, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX 2pm. There are performances, dance battles and plenty of chances to join in today, as curators Jade Hackett and DJ Walde explore the community side of hip-hip culture and its social roots. Take along the whole family and get involved. Free. For more information visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

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Wed 25 Aug

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

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Sun 22 Aug

Dinosaurs at the Railway, Epping Ongar Railway, North Weald Station, CM16 6BT See the Neovenator as you arrive at North Weald station, visit the mini Jurassic Jungle, take a steam hauled train ride to Ongar and into the ancient Epping Forest and meet the baby dinosaurs on board the train. For more information and to book visit www. eorailway.co.uk ZooNation Presents the Class of 2021: Sunday, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX 1pm. The spotlight falls on the ZooNation Youth Company, with the superstar dancers and choreographers of the future, along with their teachers, showing us what they’re made of. Free event. For more information visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Tues 24 Aug

Race For Life, Epping 5K, CM16 6HR 6.15pm. This is a 5K for everyone. Under 6s go free. Event is in aid of Cancer Research UK. For more information and to register your place visit www. raceforlife.org

Fri 27- Mon 30 Aug

All Point East Festival, Victoria Park, Tower Hamlets, E3 5TB A music festival with funfair rides, attractions and games, which operate on a pay-asyou go basis. Buggies and pushchairs are only permitted for dates where children have access to the event. For more information visit www. allpointseastfestival.com

Fri 27 Aug – Sat 11 Sep

Greenwich & Docklands International Festival, Various Locations A free outdoor performing arts festival with a programme of theatre, dance and street arts. This annual event is committed to diversity and has commissioned work by artists with disabilities and from diverse backgrounds. To view the full programme of events visit www.festival.org/gdif

Sat 28 Aug

Wanstead Outdoor Cinema, Eton Manor RFC, E11 2JA 5-11pm. Two films will be shown back to back. Films to be confirmed. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.eventbrite.com/e/ wanstead-outdoor-cinema2021-tickets-147984406343

Sun 29 Aug

Classic Car Rally, Epping Ongar Railway, North Weald Station, CM16 6BT Not just for the car enthusiast - anyone who loves steam and diesel locomotives and buses will have a great day too. There will be an For lots more What’s On ideas see page 22...

Due to Covid 19 restrictions please do check with the venue that the listing is up to date before planning your visit. 20

5 July-31 August 2021

Creative Writing With

Julia Donaldson

Primary Times chats with Julia Donaldson, famous author of The Gruffalo and countless others children’s books, to get her expertise on how we can inspire young minds to write creatively! Julia Donaldson CBE is an English writer, playwright, performer, and the 2011–2013 Children’s Laureate. She is best known for her popular rhyming stories for children, especially those illustrated by Axel Schefﬂer, which includes The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom and Stick Man, and Lydia Monk who illustrated Sharing a Shell and What The Ladybird Heard.

Julia’s Past and Present

As a child, Julia dabbled in her own creative writing. “I grew up in a house with my parents, aunt, uncle and my grandparents. My grandmother always used to save me big brown envelopes to write on. My first story, I recall, was about a wizard who lost his tail. I remember at school writing a story about a rabbit. An orange rabbit running away from a farmer, perhaps there’s a little bit of Beatrix Potter in there? My latest book, and all my books really, are still similar in nature to those I wrote while at primary school.” Julia continues to write many children’s books. In 2020, she wrote her fourth book in the Ladybird series, entitled, ‘What the Ladybird Heard at the Seaside’. “In every book (in the Ladybird series) there’s this comic duo, Lanky Len and Hefty Hugh who are bungling robbers who always have a plan to steal something. In this latest book they are trying to cut off a mermaid’s hair and sell it to a wealthy famous star. The ladybird gets the seaside animals to thwart the plan. The first two ladybird books have noises, and the latest book has sounds from the sea. The book is illustrated beautifully by Lydia Monk who has illustrated a number of my books now. In fact, the idea of the first Ladybird book came after Lydia and I worked on our book Sharing a Shell and she suggested that we work on a book about farmyard animals, so while on a walk with my son we came up with the Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len characters.”

Inspire Writing

With her own childhood perspectives and her talent for writing children’s fiction, Julia tells us that, to help a child get into the flow of writing, they could start out writing scripts as they are a less descriptive, plot focused, and fast form of creative writing. “I think children love to write short plays. I know I did when I was younger, as it’s actually easier to write a play than a book. You don’t have to write all the descriptive parts with a play like you do with a book.” If the creative juices just aren’t flowing however, Julia advises that, “Children could take an already well-known story and characters, say the Three Little Pigs, and just create a play about them doing something.” For parents it’s important to encourage creative writing to help develop literacy skills and inspire imagination. As the 2011-2013 Children’s Laureate, Julia has spent a lot of time promoting reading and writing in many schools and libraries across the UK. During this time she has created her own tips that adults can use to help encourage children’s writing. “When I was a working with children, I would ask them to create a character and give the character a problem. Then make the problem get worse before it gets better. Don’t solve the problem too soon, or maybe trying to solve it gets worse, and then come up with ways the problem gets solved. Following this flow can help channel the creativity. It’s very

hard to create a plot but a child’s imagination can run wild and I would say let the child write about whatever they want to write about without laying down the law to them.”

Between Light and Dark

Children’s literature can be quite dark and scary at times, such as The Gruffalo and The Stick Man. Julia has been able to find that balance of light and dark in her writing and creates twists and turns that make for exciting tales. “Well I think all stories are like this, not just children’s stories, and that’s what makes them interesting. If you can take the character out of their comfort zone, say when they’re threatened, and they have to pit their wits against an opponent and often things get worse before they get better - because it would be a bit boring if things got solved right away. So I feel that’s the nature of all good stories. There needs to be a dark or threatening aspect, but with all my children’s stories the bad element gets conquered. I think kids like being scared to some extent. My own children were riveted by the troll and the Three Billy Goats Gruff. I remember my sister and I had a book of Greek myths called Tanglewood Tales: Jason and the Golden Fleece and there was a picture of the cut fleece hanging on a tree next to a serpent and we were intrigued by it but also terrified and fascinated.” The Woolly Bear Caterpillar is the newest children’s book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Yuval Zommer (Macmillan Children’s Books, £12.99)

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for July and August

August eclectic mix of some 70 classic, sports cars and other vehicles on the field at North Weald Station. For more information and to book visit www.eorailway.co.uk

Mon 30 Aug

See The Gruffalo, Epping Ongar Railway, North Weald Station, CM16 6BT See The Gruffalo on the platform before taking a ride on a heritage steam train through the Essex countryside and into the deep dark wood of Epping Forest. Resident magician, John, will be on board to keep you entertained during the journey. For times and to book visit www.eorailway. co.uk Weeley Tribute Festival, Clacton-on-Sea, CO16 9AG 12noon-10pm. Held in the beautiful grounds of Hawk Fruit Farm, the festival line up covers a wide range of genres and is fun for all age groups where everyone is guaranteed to know some of the music, or better still, all of it. For more information and to book tickets visit www. visitessex.com

Tues 31 Aug

Shebaa’s Adventure to Jopplety How, Stratford Circus (Online Event) A multi-sensory production for audiences living with profound and multiple learning disabilities. Audiences will be asked to gather everyday household items to act as sensory play stimulus during the show’s sensory engagement periods. Free. For more information visit www.stratford-circus. com

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

Race Cars

5 July-31 August 2021

” September Sat 4 Sep

Race for Life, Brentwood 3k, Weald Country Park, CM14 5QL From 10.30am. This is a 3K for everyone. Under 6s go free. Event is in aid of Cancer Research UK. For more information and to register your place visit www. raceforlife.org

Sat 4– Sun 5 Sep

Written by Jenny Devenny and edited by Charnaie Gordon RACE CARS is a moving book about white privilege. It’s a children’s book, perfect for 5-7 year olds, created to help parents and educators discuss racism, privilege and oppression with children. Race Cars tells the story of two best friends, a white car and a black car, that have different experiences and face different rules while entering the same race.The black car experiences rule changes and obstacles whereas the white car does not. The white car comes to see what his black friend has to face and understands that he didn’t always win on his own merit.They do however still finish up as friends. Race Cars is concerned with real-life issues and has discussion notes so that parents and teachers can reflect with their children.The book is published by Frances Lincoln Children’s Books and can be bought from high street bookstores and Amazon at a recommended price of £14.99. 22

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

Dancing City, Various Locations across Canary Wharf 1-5.30pm. London’s muchloved annual outdoor dance festival returns with an extended two-day programme, showcasing captivating performances across the extraordinary piazzas, parks and waterfronts of Canary Wharf. Free. For more information and to see what’s on visit www.festival. org

Sat 4 – Sun 12 Sep

Open House Festival 2021, Various Locations Open House will return this September with another hybrid event focused on the recovery of London. For more information and to view the full programme of events visit www.open-city.org.uk

Sun 5 Sep

70 Years of the RF, Epping Ongar Railway, North Weald Station, CM16 6BT The event based at the Railway’s North Weald Station will feature routes and tours operating to local towns and villages, commemorating 70 years of the iconic RF class AEC Regal IV. There will also be visiting vehicles and a surprise or two. For more information and to book visit www.eorailway.co.uk

Fri 10 – Sat 11 Sep

Reflection Gardens, Royal Victoria Gardens, Royal Docks, E16 See both sides of the Thames light up at dusk in this atmospheric and enchanting experience. There are echoes of local stories, whilst trees glow with fire and flowers blossom into life with flames. Free. For more information visit www.festival.org/gdif Healing Together, Various Locations Enjoy a programme of street arts, installation and performance with the environment at its heart taking place at Royal Victoria Gardens in North Woolwich, Royal Docks, and Woolwich Town Centre. Free. For more information and to see what’s on visit www.festival.org/gdif

Sun 12 Sep

Wanstead Festival, Christchurch Green, E11 2RH 11am-6pm.Vision Redbridge Culture & Leisure will bring the community back together with their annual festival of fun with various stalls and hubs offering sports taster sessions, crafts, workshops, an art trail, yoga and much more. For more information visit www.visionrcl.org.uk

Sun 19 Sep

Youth Parade, Various Locations 1.30-6.30pm. Line the streets to cheer on the parade from Abbey Green to Barking Park and join the celebratory event at Parsloes Park where there will be music, dance, free inflatables, rides, family fun and food. For more information visit www.lbbd. gov.uk/summer-of-festivals

Our next copy deadline is

13 August 2021. If you have something you would like us to try and publicise (space permitting) please email it to

listings@ primarytimes.biz

All your own work! Anushka Verma aged 6

Dolly Harris aged 8

Nagendran competitions in our May Half Term issue. Alexander Congratulations to the following people who won a Kastercum, Indian Fogt, Zuzia were ers winn Pigs game won VIP tickets to see Zippo's Circus. Giant Pass the s e and Maisee Goodale-Gardner won our Winning Book Leo Blackwell, Wilf Brakewell and Zach Deboo. Esme el l winners were Jessica Moore and Erin Naude. Samu competition. Our lucky Razzamataz Summer Schoo books. and Scarlett Reynolds won Do You Love Dinosaurs? Croft, Rupert Bentley, Oliver Offord, Nicolas Stipp a won Christine Shelley and Lydia Gough. Anushka Verm Our Maya the Bee competition winners were Mrs all our to done Well s. Harri Dolly was er Our older winn the Annie's colouring competition for the under 8's. artwork! competition winners on this page and enjoy all the

Thank you to Genesis Olatunde, Nicole Masek Gil, Florence Newton and Vera Masek Gil for their lovely, fun, colourful drawings. We love seeing your work so do please keep sending it to us. We're happy to receive artwork from the whole class so do feel free to send us class entries.

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

Answers Spot the Difference In Picture B there are only 2 birds near the sun. There are 3 coconuts not 4. There is a ribbon missing on the hat, There is a stripe missing on the towel and a stripe missing on the ball. There is a star missing near the parasol. The whole cup is grey.

K atie

lown’s Which Weather?

Word Search R L E F H E T B A N E L WM W I G U S N

O S A C V A H N J O

S A R A D U O L TWA V T H U N C L I M G HMC S A I R D I S A B L T I WS T N

P C E D A O G O F L

I C Y E T O H O T P

U M B R E L L A V S

Can you find all these words in the word search? Weather, Sunshine, Rain, Thunder, Heatwave, Wind, Clouds, Storm, Climate, Cool, Parasol, Umbrella, Gale, Hail, Mist, Fog, Hot, Icy, Snow

When does it rain money? When there is change in the weather!

Knock knock Who’s there? Lettuce Lettuce who? Lettuce in, it’s freezing outside

What kind of shorts do clouds wear? Thunderwear!

B What’s a tornado’s favourite game? Twister

How do you prevent a summer cold? Catch it in the winter!

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

Postcode: School:

Send your entry together with this completed form to:

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

competitions@primarytimes.biz 13 August 2021. Good Luck!

Closing date

Spot the 7 Diffences

Join the dots & colour in