East Sussex Christmas/Winter 2018 Primary Times by Alison Watson

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for families E with primary D I GU aged children N O â&#x20AC;&#x2122;S T A H W

Winter Edition Issue 123 26 Nov 2018 - 3 Feb 2019

in East Sussex

The Best Family Guide to Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On

What’s On

What’s On Your family diary for November through to February

Ongoing Until 14 Dec

mayhem in his quest to become The Greatest Snowman. After the show each child will meet Santa and receive an early present. Charges apply. For more details visit www. squiresgardencentres.co.uk

Mr Booth’s Mini Museum Explorers, Booth Museum, BN1 Once Upon a Time at 5AA (Friday only) 10–11.30am. Mini Christmas, Leeds Castle, Museum Explorer sessions include Maidstone, ME17 1PL art activities, a museum expedition, a story and handling some museum objects. For 2-5 year olds only and admission charges apply. For more information visit brightonmuseums. org.uk

Until 16 Dec

Glow Wild 2018, Kew Wakehurst, Haywards Heath, RH17 6TN

This Christmas, Paddington™ and classic festive stories will be brought to life through illustrations in the magnificent Castle rooms. Children will receive a traditional gift to take home. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www.leedscastle.com

Magical Story Land, Hove Museum and Art Gallery, BN3 (Thurs-Sundays only) 4.30-8pm. Enjoy 4AB a spellbinding winter lantern trail for all ages. Trees, ponds and forest floors will be brought to life with hundreds of glowing lanterns and torches of fire. Charges apply. For more information visit www.kew.org/ wakehurst

Until 23 Dec

Santa’s Sweet Factory, Paradise Park, Newhaven, BN9 0DH

Visit Santa in his sweet factory and discover an enchanting land where imagination comes to life. Make your way through the magical factory and encounter elves making sweets before meeting Santa himself and receiving a special gift. Charges apply. Visit www.paradisepark.co.uk

Until 24 Dec

Magical Millbrook Grotto, Millbrook Crowborough, TN6 3RJ

Expect to be taken on a magical journey through a winter wonderland full of enchanting sights and sounds with fun and games along the way. When you find Santa’s house, he’ll be there to greet and give out gifts. Charges apply.Visit www.millbrookgc. co.uk

Santa’s New Grotto, Priory Meadow Shopping Centre, TN34 1PH

For the first time, children can meet Santa in a large double fronted log cabin, which will be situated in Queens Square. The grotto comes with its own performance area to entertain queuing visitors on busy days. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www. priorymeadow.com

Until 1 Jan

The Greatest Snowman, Squires Garden Centre Washington, RH20 3BP

(Selected times) Enjoy this festive circus and join Frosty as he causes

10am-5pm. Do you remember the Story Cabinet and the Wishing Tree, the magical paper sculptures created by local artists? They have returned to the museum for Christmas, with more magical stories and gallery activities for the festive season. For more details visit brightonmuseums. org.uk

Until 2 Jan

Exhibition: The Snowman™ and The Snowdog, Nymans, Handcross, RH17 6EB 11am-4pm. This winter, the gallery will host an exhibition of original artwork from The Snowman™ and The Snowdog, featuring behind-thescenes drawings and preparatory sketches. Admission charges apply. Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ nymans

Christmas at the Royal Pavilion, BN1 1EE 10am-4.30pm. Experience a magical Christmas at the Royal Pavilion. The spectacular Banqueting Room table is laid with Georgian style desserts and the palace is transformed with festive decorations and glittering trees. For more details visit brightonmuseums. org.uk

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

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

“

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

”

Seasonal Silhouettes in the Garden, Sheffield Park and Garden, Uckfield, TN22 3QX

10am-4pm. Embrace the outdoors and enjoy the peace and tranquility it offers at this busy time of year. Look out for seasonal silhouettes around the garden as you go and join in the festivities. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/sheffield-parkand-garden

Until 6 Jan

Christmas at Standen, East Grinstead, RH19 4NE

10am-4pm. Take in the tree in the courtyard before visiting the house decorated for Christmas through the ages, where you can enjoy rooms dressed for a different decade in which the family celebrated. Admission charges apply.Visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/standen-houseand-garden

The Snowman™, Brighton Museum, BN1 1EE

10am-5pm. To celebrate the 40th anniversary of Raymond Briggs’ much loved classic picture book, go along and discover the magic in this exhibition of the original illustrations. Charges apply. For more details visit brightonmuseums.org.uk

Every Miniature Counts, Brighton Museum, BN1 1EE

10am-5pm. Enjoy an exhibition and see pieces from seven artists from Museum Mentors who worked together to produce individual miniature artworks inspired by Holbein. Charges apply. For more details visit brightonmuseums.org.uk

Ice Skating on The Prom, Bognor Regis, PO21 1BL

The whole family can enjoy a traditional style Ice Rink. There’s also Santa’s Grotto, children’s rides, Christmas Market huts, a life size snow globe, a German style swing grill and a bar. Charges apply. Discount available with Primary Times voucher.Visit www. iceskatingontheprom.co.uk

stitched baubles decorating the tree. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ standen-house-and-garden

Until 13 Jan

Royal Pavilion Ice Rink, Brighton, BN2 1RA Experience the most twinkling and delightful Christmas experience – from superb ice quality, to comfy boots, separate beginners’ area, beautiful rink side restaurant and staff who really love what they do. Charges apply. For more details visit www.royalpavilionicerink.co.uk

Until 27 Jan

Local Stories of the First World War, Hastings Museum and Art Gallery, TN34 1ET This final project exhibition examines remembrance through objects from the museum’s collection. It shows how the sacrifices of the conflict have been marked, both for individuals and for society as a whole. Explore these via the touchscreen. For more details visit www.hmag.org.uk

Until 24 Feb Worthing Ice Rink, Steyne Gardens, BN11 3DW The Worthing Ice Rink returns to Steyne Gardens for the winter. The rink will be fully covered so skating with the whole family can take place whatever the weather. Children are welcome to skate no matter the level of ability. Ages 4+. Charges apply.Visit www.worthingicerink.com

Until 1 Mar

Weekday Winter Tours, Bodiam Castle, Nr Robertsbridge, TN32 5UA (Selected dates) 10am-3pm. Enjoy a guided tour of the castle this winter. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/bodiam-castle

Until 26 Mar

Eastbourne Remembers, The Pavilion, Royal Parade, BN22 7AQ 10am-5pm. Unlock extraordinary memories from the past, the exhibition will be revealing lost pieces of time spanning over 2,000 years. Uncover the memory triggers of nostalgic childhoods, heirlooms and explore how we create memories. For more details visit www.heritageeastbourne.co.uk

The Xmas Tree, Standen House and Garden, East Grinstead, RH19 4NE

10-4pm. See the decorated tree by Mr X Stitch in the courtyard. See hundreds of individual cross

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 6...

Dear Readers Primary Times in East Sussex 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG Tel: 01273 916210 Email: office@primarytimes.biz Website: www.primarytimes.co.uk Twitter: @PT_Sussex Instagram: @primarytimesse Publishing Editor: Peter Watson Sales: Catherine Dillon, Gill Pearce, Lola Olowofela & Andrew Langridge Listings: Dingile Kasote Production: Alison Watson Office Manager: Chris Blower Administrators: Claire Wood & Tina Love Editorial Assistant: Dunya Simões Proof Reader: Catherine Draisey Social Media: Rachel Benson Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in infant and primary schools throughout Sussex. 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 Sussex 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 Sussex is operated under franchise licence.

Welcome to the Christmas/New Year issue of Primary Times. It has been a real pleasure putting together our magazine for you and rounds off the year nicely! This magazine isn’t just for Christmas as it covers all the way up to just before February Half Term so don’t throw us out with all the Christmas wrappings. Well done to Gabriel Eufrasia who won the ‘Design the Primary Times Christmas Card’ competition this year. The design has now been printed ready for us to send to our advertisers, schools and friends. At this time of year we need to thank some lovely people for all their help this year. Firstly we owe a very big thank you to all our advertisers who have supported us over the last year and enabled us to deliver the magazine free to 365,000 families seven times a year. That’s a lot of support we need and we have some fantastic advertisers so do please support them too. We also want to give a really big thank you to all the amazing school staff who help distribute Primary Times. We couldn’t do it without you and are very appreciative. Something to look out for in the new year is the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch. It’s running from 26-28 January 2019. Why not start putting out bird feeders now to persuade birds to come to your garden. Check www.rspb.org.uk for more information.

Contents

inside this issue.... What’s On.................................2

News.........................................4 Family Theatre..........................8 Whatever the Weather................13 Competitions............................ 19 Film Preview Guide................. 21 All Your Own Work!.................23 Katie Clown’s Activity Page....24

Have a wonderful Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year.

Peter and the Primary Times Team When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it

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26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

News

MISCHIEF AND MYSTERY IN MOOMIN VALLEY thu 20 mon 31 dec the perfect

Activities 4 Kids Activities 4 Kids have joined with WetWetWet Swim School to put all of their kids activities under one roof. Fun and active holiday camps take place across Brighton and Hove every school holiday. Some of their holiday camps also include swimming lessons. For your child’s next birthday, take away the stress and worry of party organising and let Activities 4 Kids do it for you. They ensure your children have a ball and that their party is the talk of the playground. They run active parties including team games and sports, arts and science activities, and there is even a new mermaid party. Learn to swim with WetWetWet Swim School. They have lessons for all ages and abilities including beginners up to Squad level, and adult lessons across Brighton, Hove and West Sussex and from January, the new Hassocks pool. First Aid courses are also available. If every child learned First Aid at school age, many lives could be saved. Activities 4 Kids believe that all children should know how to deliver basic first aid, how to put a person into the recovery position and how to call the emergency services. The First Aid courses are certified, giving children an STA Junior Medic First Aid Qualification. For more information, please visit Activites4kids.co.uk or call 01273 256 354.

Award for Hove Junior School

A national accolade for quality has been awarded to Hove Junior School for its work in improving the well-being, resilience and selfesteem of its pupils who are vulnerable to underachievement. The Quality Mark Award recognises the impressive work being done by the school to improve progress in reading, writing and maths for all pupils, particularly those with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities. Hove Junior School has been working in partnership with Achievement for All, a leading organisation that works in partnership with schools to improve outcomes for all children and young people vulnerable to underachievement, since June 2016. Jen Beale, Inclusion Manager and AFA Champion at Hove Junior School, told Primary Times, “Achievement for All works closely with parents, carers, teachers, support staff and the individual child to secure the best outcome and attainment through personalised and specific targets. At Hove Junior School we believe that every child can progress regardless of background, challenge and need.” Huge congratulations to teachers, parents and children at Hove Junior School for all their hard work. 4

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

Brighton Festival Children’s Parade

The streets of Brighton will feature folk tales of the world for the 2019 Brighton Festival Children’s Parade next May. Schools from across the region will be allocated a folk tale from a selection, chosen to reflect the diversity of artists taking part in the Festival. The stories will be studied and explored by teachers and pupils before being presented in costume, music and carnival structures by around 5,000 school children and community groups. The annual Children’s Parade will take place on Saturday 4 May to officially launch the Festival. The largest of its kind in Europe, the free event takes place in central Brighton and has delighted participants and spectators for nearly 30 years. Brighton Festival will feature an extended Children and Young People’s programming strand. Onjali Q. Raúf’s The Boy at the Back of the Class has also been chosen as the 2019 ‘big read’ for children across Brighton and Hove, Sussex and beyond. Brighton Festival will take place from 4-26 May 2019. For more information, please visit www.brightonfestival.org.

The Dinosaur Craft Book Local Brighton Mums and Authors Laura Minter and Tia Williams have created a book perfect for any dino-mad kids out there. The award-winning Little Button Diaries bloggers and crafting mums are releasing The Dinosaur Craft Book this November. The book has all the items your little budding palaeontologists and dinosaur hunters could dream of. Containing 15 dinosaur-themed projects to make, The Dinosaur Craft Book will get your little ones crafting in no time. Aimed at boys and girls aged 3+, all of the projects can be made either from readily available items or from easy-to-source materials. As well as dinosaur costumes to wear and essential accessories, there is also an epic volcano cake, perfect for any party-saurus. Other projects include dinosaur paws, pterodactyl wings, an adorable Snugglesaurus cushion, a spiny dino cape, a funky triceratops pen pot and a matching magnetic pen case. With gorgeous, stylised photography and clear, step-by-step instructions throughout, get ready to hunt down some terrible lizards with The Dinosaur Craft Book. There’s lots of fun to be had. The book is available for £5.99 from November.

The Countryside Alliance Awards are the Alliance’s annual celebration of British food and farming, enterprise and heritage. Little Gate Farm, in Beckley, near Hastings, has been nominated in the Rural Enterprise category Little Gate Farm is a registered charity located in Beckley, near Hastings and Rye in East Sussex. They provide work training and supported employment to help adults with learning disabilities into paid work. They have 20 acres of ancient woodland at Little Gate Farm. A team of learning disabled and autistic work trainees manage this woodland sustainably and use it as a resource for a social enterprise. Little Gate is always looking for job opportunities for their work trainees. If an employer would like an informal chat with the Supported Employment team please contact Andrea on 07902 750 542 or email andrearandallsmith@littlegate.org.uk Little Gate Farm also runs a young rangers programme most school holidays for learning disabled and autistic children and young people aged 8 to 18. For more information about Little Gate Farm and the work they do, visit www.littlegate.org.uk.

Goodbye Daisy Stephanie Nimmo’s daughter, Daisy, was born with a rare, life-limiting, genetic disease. She had lots of things going on medically but in-between hospital stays, Daisy loved nothing more than going to school and spending time with her friends. Daisy had a learning disability but despite her minimal verbal skills she understood everything, and knew exactly what was going on. Sadly, when Daisy was only ten her beloved Daddy died of cancer. At the time Stephanie found that there were very

AFTER 20 YEARS, LINK PLUS HAS MOVED!

News

Congratulations Little Gate Farm

Short break carers for disabled children are urgently needed now in Brighton and Hove. We would love to have you on board. Contact us now and be part of our next 20 years’ transforming the lives of local disabled children and their families. If you are someone who has a love for children, a sense of humour, time, energy and patience as well as a spare bedroom we would love to hear from you.

We are urgently looking for people from all walks of life and backgrounds. You can provide care from your own home and with your own children and it is flexible to work around other work commitments.

Charity number 216250/SC037605

All applicants undergo an assessment process and ongoing support, training and supervision is provided. An allowance is also paid.

Short break care can be an occasional overnight stay, through to regular weekends and care in the holidays. Short Breaks is also a good way to test the water and gain experience before committing to shared care and full time fostering.

New address: Barnardo’s B & H Link Plus, Office P2 and C2, The Knoll Business Centre, 325-327 Old Shoreham Road, HOVE, BN3 7GS

New phone number: 01273 411767 New phone number:01273 411767 Brighton&HoveLinkPlus@barnados.org.uk Email: Brighton&HoveLinkPlus@barnardos.org.uk

few books that she could use which were aimed at helping Daisy communicate her feelings around her grief and loss. A year later Daisy succumbed to sepsis and she joined her Daddy in the stars. Daisy had been the life and soul of her school and the staff and children were devastated. It became apparent that very few resources exist to help children, especially non-verbal or learning-disabled children understand and communicate their feelings around death and dying. Goodbye Daisy is written in Daisy’s honour to help others at an incredibly difficult time. It’s a book for children, parents, schools, teachers, carers and health professionals, published on 3 December and available in book shops or online.

Charity number 216250/SC037605

Mrs Bun the Baker’s Breakfast Roll Ups Here is a yummy recipe from Mrs Bun the Baker’s new book, Baking with Mrs Bun the Baker. These breakfast roll ups are really tasty for breakfast, or you could have them for brunch, take them for a packed lunch or a picnic. You can always make them the night before if you don’t have time in the morning, and warm them through in the oven when you want to eat them.

Roll out the dough: Tear the dough into two equal halves. Sprinkle some ﬂour over your work surface, place a piece of dough on top, sprinkle with a little more ﬂour, and roll it out. Keep the sides as straight as possible to create a rectangle measuring 30 x 18 cm with a thickness of ½ cm.

Ingredients:

Tip: Turn your dough as you roll to stop it sticking and ﬂatten the sides which may not be rolling down.

200g self-raising ﬂour 50g butter 100ml full fat milk 3 - 4 tablespoons tomato purée 3 rashers of cooked bacon 50g grated cheese Thinly sliced mushrooms

Method:

Preheat the oven to gas mark 4 or 180°c (160°c fan oven). Line a baking tray with greaseproof paper. Make the dough: Place the flour into a bowl. Chop the butter into cubes and add it to the flour. Pick up some flour and butter and rub it between your fingertips. Keep rubbing the mixture between your fingertips until it starts to look like breadcrumbs. Add half the milk and mix well with a spoon, adding the milk slowly. Add the rest of the milk and mix well until you have a soft, doughy mixture. Tip: The dough should fall away from your hands, not leave them sticky.

Start painting and decorating: Using the tomato purée tube, squeeze a face onto the pastry. Now, with the back of the spoon or a knife, spread the purée face all over the pastry, edge to edge. Rip up the bacon, using your ﬁngers, and sprinkle it over the dough. Sprinkle over some grated cheese and thinly sliced mushrooms. Roll up, roll up: Take the edge nearest to you, tuck it in tightly and start rolling it up.You should have a long Swiss roll or sausage shape. Get cooking: Cut the sausage shape into 4–6 thick rings (use your knife like a saw to cut through). Place them ring side up on a baking tray and cook for 20 minutes. Enjoy! Baking with Mrs Bun the Baker is available for £12.99 online and from all good book stores. For more information, please visit www.mrsbunthebaker.net.

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for November through to February

November Mon 26 Nov

Special Opening Guided Tours, Alfriston Clergy House, Polegate, BN26 5TL

Charges apply and booking is essential. For more details visit www. visitlittlehampton.co.uk

Museum Minis, Hastings Museum and Art Gallery, TN34 1ET

10-11am, 11.30am-12.30pm. Embark on a guided tour of the house. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ alfriston-clergy-house

10.30-11.30am. A new series of sessions when popular children’s storyteller Kevin Graal will share stories, songs, rhythms and rhymes for under 5s. For more details visit www.hmag.org.uk

Hove Museum Minis, BN3 4AB

Fri 30 Nov

(Also 3, 10 and 17 Dec) 10am12noon. Fun with craft materials and storytelling for 2-5 year olds. Charges apply. For more details visit brightonmuseums.org.uk

Mon 26 – Fri 30 Nov

Winter House Tours, Bateman’s, Burwash, TN19 7DS

(Selected times) Take a look behind the scenes and discover how the house and collection are conserved during the quieter winter months. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/batemans

Tues 27 Nov

Little Wild Things, RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Wiggonholt, RH20 2EL

(Also 11 Dec) 10.15-11.45am. Meet some of the amazing creatures that are given a home on the nature reserve, while learning something new, getting a bit mucky and having lots of fun. Ages 2½-5. For more information and to book visit www. rspb.org.uk/PTPul

Snailspace Farewell, Saint Augustine’s Centre, Brighton, BN1 6EA

(Also 1 and 2 Dec) 10am-6pm. Enjoy a spectacular Snailspace Farewell Exhibition, see all 107 snails together one last time before they are returned to schools or auctioned off to raise funds for Martlets Hospice. For more details visit www. themartlets.org.uk

Christmas Lights Switch On and Late Night Shopping, Littlehampton High Street, BN17 5AG

5-8pm. The High Street will be packed with festive cheer and lots of local retailers will be staying open late so you can snap up your Christmas gifts. For more details visit www.visitlittlehampton.co.uk

Thurs 29 Nov

Wickbourne Lights On, Wickbourne Centre, Littlehampton, BN17 7DZ

3-5pm. This is for all the family with tombola, raffle, a fire engine, cakes, games, musical performances, art and crafts, free chocolate advent calendars, and Father Christmas.

“

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

”

Mr Booth’s Mini Museum Explorers, Booth Museum, BN1 5AA (Also 7 and 14 Dec) 10–11.30am. Mini Museum Explorer sessions include art activities, a museum expedition, a story and handling some museum objects. For 2-5 year olds only and admission charges apply. For more details visit brightonmuseums.org.uk

Fri 30 Nov – Sun 23 Dec Tilgate Park’s Magical Christmas, The Walled Garden, Crawley, RH10 5PQ (Selected dates) Experience a magical winter wonderland with family attractions such as a Santa’s Grotto, a Narnia® maze with live actors, a traditional carousel, a heated marquee with an Alpinethemed bar and more. Charges apply. For more details visit www. tilgateparkchristmas.co.uk

December Sat 1 Dec

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

Decorate an Elephant, Bodiam Castle, Nr Robertsbridge, TN32 5UA 11am-3pm. Add a splash of colour to the castle to brighten it up this winter. The theme will be the rich colours of India and as part of that there will be an Indian elephant silhouette to be decorated with flowers. Admission charges apply.Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/bodiamcastle

Christmas Songs by Starlight, The Observatory Science Centre, Hailsham, BN27 1RN

5.30-9pm. Enjoy a host of Christmas songs with a choir from the Zoe Pennington Dance Studio Musical Theatre. There will be seasonal refreshments to help bring in the festive cheer. Charges apply and booking is essential. For more details visit www.the-observatory.org

Arty Crafty Club, Hove Museum and Art Gallery, BN3 4AB

(Also 8 & 15 Dec) 2-4pm. Each art club takes a gallery of the museum as its theme to try out different making methods and skills. Suitable for ages 8-12. Charges apply. For more details visit brightonmuseums.org.uk

Carol Service, Horsted Keynes Station, Haywards Heath, RH17 7BE 7.30pm. An evening of Carols at the Bluebell Railway is certain to bring Christmas cheer and leave you with a warm glow. For more details visit www.bluebell-railway.com

Family Fun Workshops: Advent Calendar, Phoenix Brighton, BN2 9NB Be inspired and make your creative resolutions. Enjoy working as a family to explore different materials in these relaxed, fun workshops with Phoenix artists. All you need is your imagination and a willingness to get stuck in. Free, drop-in. Ages 5+. For more details visit www. phoenixbrighton.org

Pocket Science Funfair Tour, Coolham Hall, Horsham, RH13 8GN

11am–4pm. Enjoy the funfair with a twist, packed full of hands-on science for children 7 and up and their parents. Get ready for Christmas with some very special activities, with special crafting tables for magical gifts and illusion Christmas cards. Charges apply.Visit www.brightonscience.com

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

Email: info@activities4kids.co.uk Tel: 01273 256354

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Family Theatre

Robin at the Ropetackle

Following six years of sell-out fun, LP Creatives are inviting you to their highly anticipated seventh pantomime ‘Robin Hood’, which is coming to Shoreham-by-Sea this Christmas. It promises to be the biggest, boldest and best one yet and is Shoreham’s fastest selling panto ever with several shows almost sold out already. The evil Sheriff of Nottingham is fed up with his riches being robbed and will stop at nothing to rule supreme in Sherwood Forest – but there is one man standing firmly in his way. The Sheriff has a dastardly plan to capture the finest archer in the land and maybe bag himself a much revered ‘Silver Turnip’ along the way. Among the highly professional cast this year are Jack Callagan as ‘Robin Hood’, Jordan Pendlebury as ‘The Sheriff of Nottingham’, Sophie Baxter as ‘Maid Marion’, Laura Hyde as the witch ‘Deadly Nightshade’ and returning from last year, the hilarious David Lambert will be rocking the frock as ‘Dame Nora Bone’! Don’t miss this feast of fun, fair maidens, fabulous panto magic and the usual madness and mayhem everybody has come to expect in Shoreham come Christmas. You may even learn what’s so special about a silver turnip! This will be the Ropetackle’s funniest, biggest and boldest pantomime yet – it’s bound to hit the bullseye. Oh yes it is…!

Bexhill College Performing Arts’ Elf Jr.

Bexhill residents will embrace their inner elf when Bexhill College Performing Arts students present their production of Elf the Musical Jr. The show, featuring 28 students, will take place on 15 December at 1pm and 7pm at Izzard Theatre, Bexhill. The uplifting musical encourages

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

Jack and the Beanstalk at White Rock Theatre

This year Jack and the Beanstalk is arriving at White Rock Theatre for their spectacular annual panto. Audiences will follow Jack as he is doomed to sell his trusty cow and in climbing a giant beanstalk to cloudland. Along with his hapless brother Silly Billy and his mother Dame Trot, join Jack as he fights to save the beautiful Jill and outwit the evil Giant and Fleshcreep. Will Jack win riches beyond his wildest dreams and the hand of the girl he loves?

Family Theatre

audiences to approach each day with goodwill, wonder and cheer. The musical tells the story of a young orphan who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is given the name Buddy and raised by elves in the North Pole. Buddy lives happily unaware that he is actually a human until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Faced with the harsh reality that his father is on the naughty list, and his stepbrother doesn’t even believe in Santa, Buddy is determined to win over his new family and help New York remember the true meaning of the holidays. From the first rehearsal, the students from Bexhill College have worked together as a team to create a wonderful experience for the community to enjoy. Tickets are £5, and are available at www.bexhillcollege.ac.uk.

The much-loved actress Michelle Collins, who has appeared in numerous programmes, soaps and films will star as The Fairy. She has played roles in EastEnders, Doctor Who, The Dumping Ground and more recognisable features but will be taking up a more magical one in this year’s panto. X Factor star Chico will join Collins and star as the one and only Jack. His hit Chico Time got to the top of the UK charts and he is also known for reaching the final of ITV1s Dancing on Ice, television shows and several pantomimes. Jack and the Beanstalk is running from 14 to 30 December. Tickets are on sale now at www.whiterocktheatre.org.uk, the ticket office 01424 462 288 and at the venue: White Rock Theatre, White Rock, Hastings TN34 1JX.

HOME at Brighton Dome this Christmas

This Christmas, audiences at Brighton Dome Concert Hall will be treated to HOME, an ingenious new circus show from Pirates of the Carabina, a trailblazing company of world-class performers, musicians and acrobats. Exhilarating and enchanting, with a lively, moving, metallic set and absorbing live score, HOME delves into the fantastical lives of a neighbourhood of acrobats who, in the course of a day’s misadventures, discover surprising new connections with each other, and with the world outside. Performed with heartfelt humour and genuine honesty, Pirates of the Carabina bring to the stage all the skills, quirks and qualities that make their shows so much more than the sum of the individual performers. Featuring vertical-swinging trapeze, never-ending ropes, a spinning carousel, and a very temperamental staircase, HOME presents a playful, poignant tale about the futility of grand plans, and the joys of letting go.

– Pirates of the Carabina –

The brand new family circus show from the makers of FLOWN

Sat 15 – Sun 23 Dec £10 – £22.50, Under 16s half price A per order charge applies on phone/online Thu 20 Dec, 5.30pm is a Relaxed Performance. This event is highly visual with few or no words

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

Suitable for All Ages brightondome.org

Family Theatre

27 Jan

Sundae Club: 3 Little Pig Tails A brand new version of the classic story set in Paris. A grumpy old wolf is a chef who wants some pigs’ tails for his soup. Will the pigs outwit the wolf? Ages 3-7.

Old Market Hove

Barn Southwick Box Office: 01273 597 094 29 Dec – 5 Jan

Cinderella

Follow the twists and turns of this traditional rag to riches story of Cinderella. Expect a pantomime full of romance and fun with a cast of amazing and colourful characters.

Bexhill College Izzard Theatre Box Office: www. bexhillcollege.ac.uk/theatre 15 Dec

Elf The Musical JR. Based on the beloved holiday film, this hilarious fish-outof-water comedy follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to find his true identity.

Brighton Dome

Box Office: 01323 434 670 13 – 31 Dec

The Lost Toys Big Christmas Adventure!

A brand new, multi-sensory musical about three unique toys, created in Father Christmas’s North Pole Factory, who fall out of the sleigh and land in Eastbourne. Presented by Underwired Productions.

Hilton Brighton Metropole

Box Office: www. jackinbrighton.com 847 15150844 847 1515 Enjoy 20 - 29 Dec the show! Jack and the And don’t Beanstalk forget to say Join Jack in this you saw it in hilarious tale as he

Primary Times!

Box Office: 01273 709 709 15 – 23 Dec

HOME

With a beautifully inventive, interconnected set and original live score, this show delves into the fantastical imaginations of two neighbours, brought together over the course of a day’s misadventures.

24 Dec

Peter and the Wolf/The Snowman

Starting with Prokofiev’s introduction to the instruments of the orchestra, told through Peter’s quest to capture a hungry wolf and followed by The Snowman on the big screen, with Howard Blake’s score performed live.

29 – 30 Dec

Sleeping Beauty

Towner Art Gallery

tries to outwit the evil giant and win the hand of the princess he loves. With a West End cast, lavish costumes, dazzling special effects and a tapdancing cow.

Komedia Brighton Box Office: 08452 938 480 8 Dec

Comedy Club 4 Kids

Some of the best stand-ups and sketch acts from the international circuit do their thing for an audience of children and their families, but without the rude bits. Ages 6+.

20 – 31 Dec

Out of the Hat

Long Nose Puppets presents a story about friendship and true magic. Expect lively songs that will have all joining in. It’s a spectacular theatre experience for all ages, especially 2-8 year olds.

This enchanting production, set to Tchaikovsky’s glorious music reawakens the magic of the world’s favourite fairy tale. 10

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

Theatre Royal Brighton Box Office: 08448 717 650 26 Nov

Harry Hill’s KIDZ SHOW

How To Be Funny is Harry’s list of tips on how to become a standup comic, plus a chance to try out your skills. Kids should bring their best jokes and if you’re sitting near the front, take an umbrella!

Box Office: 01273 201 801 13 – 16 Dec

4 – 8 Dec

Tabby McTat

Join Alex, Marty, Melman and Gloria as they bound out of the zoo and onto the stage. Enjoy an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. Ages 3+.

Interwoven with original songs, Tabby McTat is a heartwarming tale of friendship and loyalty. From the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Ages 2-7.

20 - 31 Dec

Mischief and Mystery in Moomin Valley

Magical puppetry, an ingenious pop-up book set, original music and interactive play will delight young audiences and encourage them to immerse themselves in a unique participatory storytelling. Ages 3-7.

Ropetackle Shorehamby-Sea Box Office: 01273 464 440 13 - 31 Dec

Robin Hood

The evil Sheriff of Nottingham is fed up with his riches being robbed. He has a dastardly plan to capture the finest archer in Sherwood Forest. Enjoy this feast of fun, fair maidens, fabulous panto magic.

Royal Hippodrome Eastbourne Box Office: 01323 802 020 14 Dec

Secret Santa – The Frost Files APL Theatre present a brand new production filled with adventure, fun and festive spirit. The family musical is a fast-paced spectacular with a mix of well-known Christmas arrangements and original songs.

Stables Hastings Box Office: 01424 423 221 19 – 29 Dec

Danny the Champion of the World

From the book by Roald Dahl, enjoy this Christmas production adapted for the stage by David Wood. Expect an adventure with 9 year old Danny and his father who live in a Romani wagon.

Madagascar the Musical

6 Dec – 2 Jan

Nellie Limelight and the Oysters of Time

When Nellie Limelight stumbles across something in the wrong place and the wrong time, she sets out to investigate. Follow this courageous detective as she endeavours to put things right. Ages 4-7.

30 Jan – 2 Feb

Horrible Histories: Awful Egyptians

From the fascinating Pharaohs to the power of the pyramids, discover the foul facts of death and decay with the meanest mummies in Egypt. It’s the history of Egypt with the nasty bits left in. Ages 5+.

Horrible Histories: Terrible Tudors From the horrible Henries to the end of evil Elizabeth, hear the legends (and the lies!) about the torturing Tudors. Survive the Spanish Armada as it sails into the audience. Ages 5+.

White Rock Hastings Box Office: 01424 462 288 14 – 24 Dec

Santa Claus and the Magical Christmas Journey

This brand new adventure filled with songs, nursery rhymes and magic promises to be the Christmas treat you won’t want to miss. Don’t miss the magical moment when snowflakes fall over the audience.

14 – 30 Dec

Jack and the Beanstalk

It’s time to celebrate the festive season with a spectacular family pantomime. This year’s show features EastEnders’ Michelle Collins as The Fairy and X-Factor star Chico as Jack.

Out of the Hat

The Komedia Brighton are excited to announce the return of the brilliant Long Nose Puppets this festive season with their brand new show Out of the Hat. Long Nose Puppets are presenting Out of the Hat at Komedia from Thursday 20 to Monday 31 December at 11am and 2pm. Book tickets at www.komedia.co.uk. When Doris and Delilah wake up to find something strange and sparkly has fallen from the sky, they are inspired to put on the world’s greatest magic show! But how do you make real magic happen? What ingredients do you need and who can help them? Along the way they encounter some fabulous characters, from a transformative moth, a giant singing frog and an artistic spider to some beautiful fireflies who all help to create their dream. This is a story about friendship and true magic full to the brim with lively songs by Tom Gray of Gomez that will have everyone joining in. It’s a

Family Theatre

Pirates of the Carabina Company Director, Shaena Brandel told Primary Times, “There are a lot of unique circus acts in the show - we take things and turn them on their head. We have an act that we call vertical trapeze that it’s unlikely anyone will have seen before. Brighton Dome is a great venue for circus and we’re excited about coming back to present our new show here.” HOME is at Brighton Dome from 15 - 23 December. Tickets start from £10, with under 16s half price and family ticket offers available. For more information, please visit www.brightondome.org or call 01273 709 709.

spectacular theatre experience for all ages, especially 2-8 year olds. The show on Friday 28 December at 2pm is a relaxed performance. The show is exactly the same but nobody minds if you fidget, make noise, or need to leave and come back. This performance is not exclusive to those who require a relaxed environment, but aims to make those who do feel more comfortable.

Jack and the Beanstalk in Brighton

Following the sold out success of Cinderella 2017, Brightonbased production company E3 are bringing family panto back to Brighton once again with a spectacular new production of Jack and the Beanstalk. The West End cast will see some returning faces from Cinderella 2017, as Keris Lea is heading back to the panto stage fresh off the back of her success in the hit BBC One talent show ‘All Together Now’. The Christmas Fayre was very popular last year so E3 have promised to make it bigger and better for 2018. You will see many of your favourite stalls from 2017, plus many more! Once again, E3 have made entry to the Christmas Fayre free for all panto ticket holders. It will be open before and after each show, as well as during the interval, so make sure to nip in and grab your all-important panto souvenirs. Head down to the Hilton Brighton Metropole between 20 and 29 December to see this hilarious tale as Jack tries to outwit the evil giant, and win the hand of the princess he loves. Tickets are on sale now at www.jackinbrighton.com.

www.jackinbrighton.com i n a ss o c i at i o n wi t h

PRESENTS

Out of the Hat Primary Times 90x135 ad - 08 FINAL.indd 1

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26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for November through to February

December Festive Beach Clean, Rye Harbour Village Car Park, TN31 7TX 10am-1pm. A clean-up of rubbish washed up along the beach by autumn storms, plus the chance to see many wintering birds.Your efforts will be rewarded with hot soup at Lime Kiln Cottage afterwards. For more details visit www. sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk

Wildlife Watch, Rye Harbour, TN31 7TX 10am-12.30pm. The session will include exploring the reserve, playing games, craft activities and learning how to help wildlife thrive. Charges apply. For more details visit www. sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk

Sail to Santa, WWT Arundel Wetland Centre, BN18 9PB (Also 2, 8 and 9 Dec) Families can board an elf-powered boat for a gentle ride through the reed beds to visit Father Christmas. Enjoy a unique trip where children can experience the magic of a festive visit inside a frosty grotto. For more details visit www.wwt.org.uk/arundel

Sat 1 - Sun 2 Dec

Family Craft Weekend, Bodiam Castle, Nr Robertsbridge, TN32 5UA 11am-4pm. Celebrate the start of this festive month by joining us with the family to help create some Christmas decoration for the castle. Children can also create a magic lantern money box to take home. Admission charges apply.Visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/bodiam-castle

Lantern Light Storytelling, Bodiam Castle, Nr Robertsbridge, TN32 5UA 11.30am-3pm. Enjoy the magic of stories by lantern light in the castle. Admission charges apply.Visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/bodiam-castle

Storytime with Woodland Santa, Standen House and Garden, East Grinstead, RH19 4NE Visit Santa’s woodland grotto and enjoy a magical Christmas story in the company of the man himself. Admission charges apply.Visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/standen-houseand-garden

A Tudor Christmas, Michelham Priory, Hailsham, BN27 3QS 10.30am-5pm. Get into the Tudor festive spirit with many Tudor reenactors in the house displaying what Christmas in Tudor times was really like. There will be singing, dancing, games for families to play and more. For more information visit www. sussexpast.co.uk

Christmas Fair, Raystede Centre for Animal Welfare, BN8 5AJ

10am-4pm. Enjoy two jam packed days of festive fun and activities for the whole family. This year’s event will feature a special appearance from Father Christmas. Charges apply. For more details visit www.raystede.org

Sat 1 - Sun 16 Dec

Visit Father Christmas, Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre, BN18 9LT

(Weekends only) Ride the Christmas express train to visit Father Christmas in a 19th century train ticket office. He’ll be arriving early each day to have breakfast with families from 9am in the cafe. This breakfast sitting is pre-book only. Charges apply.Visit www. amberleymuseum.co.uk

Christmas at the Clergy House, Alfriston Clergy House, Polegate, BN26 5TL (Selected dates) 11am-3.30pm. Discover the house dressed for Christmas in its seasonal splendour. See the house decorated for Christmas with rooms from different eras. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house

Festive Afternoon Teas, Bodiam Castle, Nr Robertsbridge, TN32 5UA

2-3.30pm. Get into the festive spirit with the family by booking a Festive afternoon tea in the Wharf tea room. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ bodiam-castle

Sat 1 – Sun 23 Dec

Drop-In Christmas Crafts, Nymans, Handcross, RH17 6EB (Selected dates) 11am-3pm. Enjoy family craft activities inspired by the knitted textures in The Snowman™ and The Snowdog. At this workshop you will be making sock puppet Snowdogs. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/nymans

Standen at Twilight, Standen House and Garden, East Grinstead, RH19 4NE

(Selected dates) 4-6pm. Explore the house after dark to see the Beale’s home completely transformed by

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

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

“

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

”

Christmas. Admission charges apply. Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ standen-house-and-garden

Kids Christmas Crafts, WWT Arundel Wetland Centre, BN18 9PB

(Weekends only) 10am-12noon, 1-3pm. Friendly WWT craft volunteers lead kids in simple seasonal crafts in the Swan Lake room of the Visitor Centre. For more details visit www.wwt.org.uk/arundel

Sat 1 – Mon 24 Dec Santa Specials, Bluebell Railway, Sheffield Park Station, TN22 3QL

(Selected dates) Enjoy a journey through the Sussex countryside in all its winter splendour. Santa and his elves will be on board with a present and chocolate treat for all the children. Charges apply.Visit www. bluebell-railway.com

The Magic of Christmas, Fishers Farm Park, Wisborough Green, RH14 0EG A spectacular experience awaits you this December. Activities include a traditional pantomime, live performances and Santa’s grotto. Charges apply and booking is essential. For more details visit www. fishersfarmpark.co.uk

Santa Flights, British Airways i360, Brighton, BN1 2LN

2.30-4pm. Make magical memories together as a family at 450ft in the air. Children can share their Christmas dreams with Santa and will receive an early Christmas gift to take home. Charges apply.Visit www. britishairwaysi360.com

Santa’s Grotto, Garden Pride, Ditchling, BN6 8TP

Visit Santa in his own magical winter wonderland. Charges apply and booking is essential. For more details visit www.notcutts.co.uk

Breakfast or Tea with Santa, Garden Pride, Ditchling, BN6 8TP

Expect a fun-filled mealtime including a special present and an activity with Santa or his elves. Charges apply and booking is essential. For more details visit www.notcutts.co.uk

Santa Paws, Garden Pride, Ditchling, BN6 8TP

Go along enjoy a wonderful dog grotto experience with your cherished doggy members of the family. All dogs have made the Nice List, whether they are a sock stealer, a furniture chewer or a fence jumper. Charges apply and booking is essential. For more details visit www. notcutts.co.uk

Winter Wonderland Experience, Phileas Foggs World of Adventures, BN1 8AF

(Selected dates) Join Phileas Fogg on a magical, fun-packed immersive live pantomime adventure around the world to meet Father Christmas. Charges apply. For more details visit www.phileasfoggsworldofadventures. co.uk

Sat 1 Dec – Wed 2 Jan Winter Scarves and Woolly Baubles Trail, Nymans, Handcross, RH17 6EB

10am-3.30pm. Inspired by The Snowdog’s knitted ears and spots, a variety of woolly decorations will be hidden in the garden to find. Look out for knitted scarves tied up and pom-pom baubles hanging in the trees. Admission charges apply.Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/nymans

Snowdog Art Mini-Trail, Nymans, Handcross, RH17 6EB

10am-4pm. A selection of statues from the popular Snowdog art trails will be dotted around the garden at Nymans over Christmas. Each Snowdog has a different design, which will be your favourite? Admission charges apply.Visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/nymans

Sat 1 Dec – Sun 6 Jan Just So Trail, Bateman’s, Burwash, TN19 7DS

(Selected dates) 10am-3pm. Enjoy the winter garden at Bateman’s with our Just So trail. Track down the clues, collect the answers and claim your prize. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/batemans

Just So Christmas, Bateman’s, Burwash, TN19 7DS 11am-4pm. Go along and see the house decorated for Christmas with a Just So theme. This year the house will be decorated in exotic colours to reflect Kipling’s love of travel. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/batemans

Precious Gems Trail, Bodiam Castle, Nr Robertsbridge, TN32 5UA

(Selected dates) 11am-3pm. As part of his restoration of the Taj Mahal, Lord Curzon reinstated many of its precious gems. Discover what they were as you hunt for them around the castle and claim a prize. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/bodiam-castle

Sun 2 Dec

Christmas Storytelling, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL

(Also 9 & 16 Dec) Join a storyteller in the Maiden’s Tower to hear ‘Paddington and the Christmas Surprise’ by Michael Bond. On this festive adventure Paddington™ discovers why Santa Claus makes everyone’s Christmas so special. Charges apply. For more information visit www.leeds-castle.com

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

Fun Days Out with the Family A Family Christmas in Brighton

Get down to the Royal Pavilion & Museums this Christmas and enjoy a great day out with all the family. From 20 October to 6 January The Snowman™ flies into Brighton Museum to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Raymond Briggs’ much loved classic picture book. Discover the magic in this exhibition of the original illustrations from the book. The 1982 TV animation will also be shown in the gallery alongside a display of some of the original hand drawn cels. Across the garden, the Royal Pavilion will be transformed with festive decorations and glittering trees between 17 November and 1 January. Pavilion-inspired decorations including butterflies, birds and flowers bring sparkle, glamour and Christmas cheer for all the family. Meet the Dragons on the family trail and

Sheffield Park at Christmas

Take the family to Sheffield Park and Garden this Christmas to spend time in the great outdoors where there’s something for everyone to enjoy. There are seasonal silhouettes in the garden for you to spot on your walks while taking part in festive activities. Look out for them around the network of paths and see if you can join in with any of the scenes. Kids can also take part in a seasonal trail to spot the robins hiding in the scenes, just pick up a trail map from reception when you arrive and go bird watching!

Whatever the Weather!

drop in for some crafty activities on 8 and 9, 15 and 16 and 21-23 December. A replica of Queen Victoria’s sleigh awaits you and your family in the Music Room, where you can create your Christmas photos as a reminder of the day. Joint admission tickets and discounts for Brighton & Hove Residents are available. For more information and for advance bookings, visit brightonmuseums.org.uk.

After all that fresh air, the tearoom will be open serving hot and cold drinks, lunches, snacks, cakes and scones for you to enjoy next to the warming fire. Take a few minutes to browse the shops as well, perfect for picking up a Christmas gift or something tasty to add to your festive table this year. Sheffield Park is open 10am-4pm throughout the festive period, except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Dogs are welcome in the garden on a short lead after 1.30pm too, or on the parkland or East Park on a short lead at any time of day.

WITH THE ROYALWITH PAVILION & MUSEUMS THE

Join in the festive fun at Sheffield Park and Garden this Christmas The Snowman™ at Brighton Museum 20 October 2018 to 6 January 2019 An exhibition of the original illustrations

Enjoy some time outdoors this Christmas and spot the robins hiding in our festive scenes around the garden. Just pick up a free trail when you arrive and look out for them near the seasonal silhouettes dotted around the garden.

Discounts for Brighton & Hove Residents and joint tickets available. For more information visit brightonmuseums.org.uk or call 03000 290900

Christmas at the Royal Pavilion 17 November 2018 to 1 January 2019 The Palace is transformed with festive decorations and glittering trees

#nationaltrust

Call 01825 790231 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/sheffieldpark

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

Whatever the Weather!

Fly with Santa on British Airways i360

Wednesday, where you’ll find all things Christmassy from handmade decorations, local baked treats and candy shops, to trinkets from local business pop-ups and suppliers.

Does Father Christmas know which chimney is yours? Point out your rooftop to the man that matters during a Santa Flight on British Airways i360 this Christmas. As the glass viewing pod glides up slowly to 450ft, share your Christmas dreams and take family photos to cherish. As you say goodbye, each child will receive an early Christmas gift to take home.

Father Christmas will arrive on 1 December to lead an enchanted parade, which will end with an incredible firework display on the seafront. On 15 December the town will host another dedicated Christmas parade for those visiting at a later date.

Santa Flights are available on selected dates between Saturday 1 and Monday 24 December. Under 16s cost £10, which includes the flight and a gift, and adult tickets for the flight cost £16.50. For more information, please visit www.BritishAirwaysi360.com.

Alongside the Christmas village, light display and skating rink, travellers can explore the outdoors and stay active with horse trails, sports lessons, guided tours and much more. Little ones can be entertained in a pop-up indoor kids’ zone that is jam-packed with activities and toys, whilst adults can warm up with a glass of mulled wine, taking in some of the best talent from the local jazz music scene. Jazz performances will run from 22-29 December.

Magical Millbrook Grotto

A magical adventure awaits children of all ages in the Magical Millbrook Grotto this Christmas. The Grotto opens on Saturday 17 November at 11am in Gravesend, Saturday 24 November in Crowborough at 11am and Staplehurst at 2.30pm with Santa’s spectacular arrival - a free event - to which you’re all invited. If you’ve visited one of the Magical Millbrook Grottos before, expect a brand new enchanting adventure. You’ll receive a special train ticket to board the Millbrook Express and be whisked away to a Winter Wonderland. A Gravesend Grotto customer told Primary Times, “It was wonderful, worth every penny just to see the delight on the 2 and 5 year olds’ faces. I recommend it 5 stars Santa was fantastic!”

Tickets cost £11 per child and £4 per adult (includes a free sweet treat for adults) but please note that children must be accompanied by a paying adult. The experience will last approximately 20-30 minutes. Tickets can be booked in-store or online by visiting www.millbrookgc.co.uk

Photo credit: O Caenen

Battle Chamber of Commerce

Make sure you don’t miss Battle’s late-night shopping evening on Thursday 6 December. The Christmas lights will be shining, choirs will be singing carols by the big Christmas tree in front of the Abbey and shops will be merry and bright from 6pm until 9pm. The fun kicks off in the Abbey Gatehouse at 5.45pm with a free MGC Grotto Pri Tim CRO-STA PP.pdf 1 11/7/2018 10:10:15 AM fancy-dress competition for all-comers. Afterwards, the Mayor tours

Children of all ages can enjoy festive games and crafts, including making magical reindeer food and Christmas badges with Santa’s elves before finally arriving at Santa’s cosy log cabin. Santa will be there to greet you and ensure that all good girls and boys are given a gift to take home before he heads back to the North Pole to load his sleigh after we close on Christmas Eve.

For more information please visit www.letouquet.com.

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Le Touquet

Do something a little different this holiday season by taking a whistle-stop trip to Le Touquet Paris-Plage, a small seaside hotspot in northern France. Under two hours from the UK, it’s the ideal destination for a wintery weekend getaway. This year the town is getting into the Christmas spirit with a series of events named ‘Once Upon a Time in Le Touquet’, decked with all the trimmings. The festivities will kick off on 30 November and will run until 6 January. Explore the Christmas Village every weekend and 14

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

Magical Millbrook Grotto Be transported into a magical Winter wonderland! Book in-store or online millbrookgc.co.uk Crowborough 01892 663822 TN6 3RJ

Staplehurst 01622 832299 TN12 9BT Follow us on Instagram - @primarytimesse

Whatever the Weather!

the town to judge the traders’ fancy dress and the best decorated shop window. Santa Claus will be greeting children in the Almonry at the top of the High Street from 6–8pm and there will be an opportunity to be photographed in his sleigh while it is parked on the Abbey Green. Search for one of the special edition Christmas rocks hidden around town, enjoy the hospitality of the Museum or the Churches, book a meal in one of the great restaurants or simply shop for bargains. Whatever you do, you’ll love the atmosphere of this special night. There will be a sparkling Battle welcome wherever you go. For more information, be sure to visit www.battlechamber.org.uk.

Snailspace Farewell Exhibition

The Martlets hospice is holding their spectacular Snailspace Farewell Exhibition at St Augustine’s in Stamford Avenue this winter, where there is the chance to see all 107 Snails from their various

Find out more at: towner.gallery/DrawMeIn #DrawMeIn

@townerlearning

Towner Art Gallery, Devonshire Park, College Road, Eastbourne, BN21 4JJ 01323 434670 townereastbourne.org.uk

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

Our Children and Young People’s exhibition is back! Open to all local early years, schools, colleges and community groups.

08/11/2018 15:35:54

Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lists/christmas-in-and-around-eastsussex Photo credit: National Trust Images/Megan Taylor

Tickets are available for 1-hour slots on 30 November, 1 December and 2 December. Adults cost £6 and children £3. For more information and to book tickets visit www.themartlets. org.uk/Event/snailspace-farewell

Michelham Priory House and Gardens

At Michelham Priory House and Gardens this December, celebrate Christmas through the ages at their Christmas at the Priory. Get into the Tudor festive spirit on 1 and 2 December with re-enactors, food demonstrations including marzipan sculpting, crossbow specialists talking about hunting game and Tudor cosmetics, make-up, medicine and crafts. A Scribe will also be showing Christmas calligraphy and illuminations.

The Secret Woodland Activity Book

It’s cold, dark and damp in the woods. Raindrops are dripping off the leaves and down the back of your neck. But it’s cosy and warm inside and you can still have fun in the woodland with The Secret Woodland Activity Book, a beautifully illustrated and immersive Scandinavian-style woodland-themed activity book full of magic and make-believe. This exciting title is packed full of woodland activities for children to do wherever they are. Characters include magical birds, woodland sprites and fairies as well as other more conventional creatures such as bears, owls and foxes.

A Christmas Carol Christmas will take place on 8 and 9 December. Join in with carol singing and children’s drama sessions, or dress up and take your own Victorian selfie. There will also be children’s crafts, Father Christmas and much more.

Activities include mazes, paper crafts activities, colouring in, recipes, scenes to create with help from the stickers and treasure maps included, and all with a mystical and magical theme.

The last of Michelham’s Christmas events we will be celebrating a

Creator, Mia Underwood, is a designer and illustrator based in Brighton. She loves a creative challenge and working with traditional and digital illustration as well as creating 3D characters. The Secret Woodland Activity Book comes from Button Books and is suitable for children aged 4-8. It’s published this month at a recommended price of £9.99.

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Christmas isn’t complicated for kids. It’s the one time of year they don’t want to do something new and different. In the lead up to the big day, and the aftermath of wrapping paper and leftovers, it’s all about family and friends; holly and carols; trees and twinkly lights; cloudy breath and warming treats.

Head over to your local National Trust places in East Sussex for your fix of festive magic. Take a frosty walk or family trail at Bodiam Castle, see houses like Bateman’s decked in the 16

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

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Festive Sparkle with the National Trust

Tackle festive trails around National Trust winter gardens and estates. Warm chilly hands in front of a roaring fire, or try out a new exhibition. Plus every time you visit you help the National Trust keep those Christmas lights twinkling bright for years to come.

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sparkling splendour of their heyday, or cosy up in the café at Sheffield Park for seasonal treats and browse with the children for gifts in the shop. They have an uncanny knack for knowing just what would make grandpa smile on Christmas Day.

locations around Brighton & Hove together for one last time. After this they will be returned to schools or auctioned off to raise funds for Martlets Hospice. There will be refreshments, snailtastic merchandise on sale and plenty of fun for the whole family.You’ll not want to miss this exciting opportunity to see all of the snails and snap a ‘Snailfie’ with your favourite before they slither off.

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All funds raised for Rockinghorse this Christmas will go towards our appeal to provide jaundice monitors for the Community

Midwife Team based at the Royal Sussex County Hospital, plus our other local projects supporting children’s healthcare services.

Christmas Activity Sponsor

For more information or to wish us a Merry

Christmas, email enquiries@rockinghorse.org.uk or call us on 01273 330044

Whatever the Weather!

WWII Christmas and the evacuees that stayed at Michelham. Take part in a wartime classroom lesson or try writing in Morse code. Participate in a Home Guard Drill and make paper aeroplanes to take part in a flying competition. WWII plus the Victory V’s will be singing on Sunday 16 December from 2-3pm, so go along and have a dance and a sing along.

Michelham Priory House & Gardens

A Tudor Christmas

Sat 1st & Sun 2nd December

A Christmas Carol 8th & 9th December

To find out more about events, please visit www.sussexpast. co.uk.

An Evacuee’s Christmas

15th & 16th December Upper Dicker BN27 3QS.

www.sussexpast.co.uk

Visit Father Christmas at Amberley Museum Father Christmas is visiting us on selected weekends 1st & 2nd, 8th & 9th, 15th & 16th December. Ride the Christmas express train to visit him in our 19th century train ticket office. Pre-book your tickets online Adults £10, Children £16, Under 4’s are £8.

New Barn Road, Amberley, Nr Arundel, BN18 9LT 01798 831370 - www.amberleymuseum.co.uk

Find magic and make-believe under the trees Celebrate traditions old and new with the National Trust this Christmas Bateman’s Bodiam Castle nationaltrust.org.uk/eastsussex

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for November through to February

December Saturnalia, Fishbourne Roman Palace, PO19 3QR

Sun 2 Dec – Sat 5 Jan

Christmas Just So Storytelling, Bateman’s, Burwash, TN19 7DS

11am-3pm. There’s a chance to create a sparkly seasonal wreath, play Roman games and dress in Roman finery. Then compose your own witty Saturnalia greeting on a papyrus scroll before making a Saturnalia candle to take away. For more details visit www.sussexpast.co.uk

(Selected dates). Stop by the old kitchen to listen to a storyteller read great Kipling tales. Stories are suitable for children and adults alike so take a seat and be transported to far off lands to discover more about the animals who live there. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ batemans

Vegan Christmas Market, Brighton Open Market, BN1 4JU

Mon 3 Dec

10am-4pm. Expect waste-free, recycled, up-cycled and eco-friendly gifts and Christmas treats. For more details visit www.animalaid.org.uk

Wintertime Studio, De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill, TN40 1DP 12noon-5pm. Enjoy an assortment of seasonally-themed family friendly creative activities, with support from the DLWP team and volunteers. Charges apply. For more details visit www.dlwp.com

Creative Christmas Crafts, Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft, BN6 8SP 2-5pm. A creative, seasonal workshop run by local artist Olivia Marjorie which is packed full of creative crafty decoration ideas. All activities have been designed to make as a whole family. Charges apply. Ages 3+. For more details visit www. ditchlingmuseumartcraft.org.uk

Christmas Fair, Bluebell Ridge Cat Rehoming Centre, Hastings, TN35 4PA 11am-2pm. There will be gifts, crafts, carol singing, decorations, Christmas cards, tombola, raffle, festive food and you will also have the chance to meet lovely cats at the centre. For more details visit www.rspca.org.uk

Tree Dressing, Weald & Downland Living Museum, PO18 0EU 10.30am-4.30pm. Tree Dressing is a magical occasion for all the family, celebrating the importance of trees in our lives. Make a greenery headdress and turn a jam jar into a lantern or dress the aspen trees as darkness falls. For more details visits www.wealddown.co.uk

Pocket Science Funfair Tour, Meeching Hall, Newhaven, BN9 9QQ 11am–4pm. Enjoy the funfair with a twist, packed full of hands-on science for children 7 and up and their parents. Get ready for Christmas with some very special activities, with special crafting tables for magical gifts and illusion Christmas cards. Charges apply.Visit www.brightonscience.com

Brighton and Hove Schools’ Concert, Brighton Centre, BN1 2GR

A massed choir of over 1,200 voices will come together to sing seasonal and specially written songs. The choir is joined by Brighton and Hove Youth Wind Orchestra and Brighton and Hove Youth Big Band. Charges apply. For more details visit www. brightoncentre.co.uk

Big Sing, De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill, TN40 1DP

5.30pm. Enjoy a programme of songs, words and music performed by over 2000 primary school children, students from The University of Sussex and East Sussex Music’s flagship orchestras, choirs and bands. Charges apply. For more details visit www.dlwp.com

Tues 4 Dec

Littlehampton Beach Clean, BN17 5DL2

12noon-2pm. Join a beach clean and help to clear up litter washed up along the shoreline.You’ll be collecting rubbish, sorting recyclables and conducting a litter survey. Open to all. For more details contact sarahward@sussexwt.org.uk visit www.sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk

Thurs 6 Dec

Christmas in Battle - Late Night Shopping, Various Locations

6-9pm. Shops open late with traders in fancy dress. Entertainment includes seasonal fun, Father Christmas and carol singing. For more details search ‘Battle Christmas Festivities’ on Facebook.

“

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

Fri 7 Dec

”

Festival of Christmas Trees, Church of the Holy Cross, Uckfield, TN22 1BP

(Also 8 and 9 Dec) Go along to see this magical display of Christmas trees. Enjoy the entertainment and visit the Belmont centre for seasonal refreshments, hot lunches, biscuit decorating, Christmas crafts and gifts. For more details visit www. churchoftheholycrossuckfield.co.uk

Christmas in the Courtyard, Michelham Priory, Hailsham, BN27 3QS

Enjoy carol singing in the Elizabethan Barn by the Bourne Chorus. There will be festive refreshments available. The house will be open from 7-8pm decorated for Christmas through the ages. A lovely festive meal will be served in the Barn from 8pm. For more information visit www. sussexpast.co.uk

Festive Frosty Friday, Mallydams Wood, Hastings, TN35 4AH

4-7pm. Follow the boardwalk through the woodland lit with twinkly lights and lanterns leading to a festive fire. Wrap up warm and take a torch. Shuttle bus available from Hastings Country Park. For more details contact anna.herrieven2@rspca.org. uk or visit www.rspca.org.uk

Fri 7 – Sun 23 Dec

Santa’s Grotto, Arundel Museum, BN18 9PA

(Selected dates) Santa returns to Arundel, visit him in his traditional Grotto during December weekends. Charges apply. For more details visit www.arundelmuseum.org

Sat 8 Dec

Free Day: The Snowman™, Brighton Museum, BN1 1EE

11am-4pm. With Christmas around the corner, take a break from shopping and get creative with family activities and workshops inspired by The Snowman™ exhibition. For more details visit brightonmuseums. org.uk

Comedy Club 4 Kids, Komedia, Brighton, BN1 1UN

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

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

1.30pm. Enjoy cracking entertainment with the best stand-ups and sketch acts from the international circuit. Ages 6+. Charges apply. For more information visit www.komedia.co.uk

The Rye Christmas Festival: Winter Carnival Spectacular, TN31 7JF

Celebrate family time, festive spirit and the coming together of the Rye community. Activities vary each year but alongside the classics; Father Christmas, Mother Christmas,

reindeer, fair rides, procession and performances. For details visit www. christmasinrye.co.uk

Christmas Open Day, Brighton Dome, BN1 1UE 11am-4pm. Dust off your finest Christmas jumper for the ultimate festive photo opportunity, there’ll be children’s craft activities available. For more details visit www. brightondome.org

Brighton Santa Dash, Hove Lawns nr Peace Statue, BN3 2PE Enjoy the ultimate feel-good festive 5k run along the seafront in aid of Rocking Horse’s Christmas appeal. The 5k race begins at 10.30am, but just before at 10.20am there will be a free kids 400m race. Simply turn up, run and receive a medal. For more details visit www.rockinghorse.org.uk

Christmas Crafts, Sheffield Park and Garden, Uckfield, TN22 3QX (Also 15 and 22 Dec) 11am-12noon. Make a stained glass window and silhouette Christmas decoration to take home. Charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ sheffield-park-and-garden

Stanmer Park Wildlife Watch, Stanmer House, BN1 9QA 1.30-3.30pm. Take your children along to help them explore the natural world. This will involve getting to know the forest school site and bush craft activities. Ages 5-9. Charges apply. For more details visit www. sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk

Sat 8 – Sun 9 Dec

Family Craft Weekend, Bodiam Castle, Nr Robertsbridge, TN32 5UA 11am-3pm. Bring the family along to enjoy some crafty fun. Join the Bodiam safari and decorate your own animal figures to take home. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/bodiam-castle

Christmas Wreath Making, Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft, BN6 8SP Get into the festive spirit and create something special. Jo Coles will take you out on a walk around Ditchling to forage for foliage to make your wreath. Charges apply. Ages 7+. For more details visit www. ditchlingmuseumartcraft.org.uk

Victorian Christmas, Michelham Priory, Hailsham, BN27 3QS 11am-4pm. Go along and enjoy the house decorated for Christmas through the ages. There will be carol singing, bell ringing, Christmas carol children’s drama sessions, dress up and take your own Victorian selfie, children’s crafts and more. For more details visit www.sussexpast.co.uk

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

Win a Paddington 2 Christmas Edition DVD The BAFTA-nominated hit and family film of the year, Paddington 2, is now available for you to take home on DVD and Blu-Ray with a special Christmas themed sleeve. Paddington is happily settled with the Brown family in Windsor Gardens where he has become a popular member of the community. While searching for the perfect present for his beloved Aunt Lucy’s hundredth birthday, Paddington spots a unique pop-up book and embarks upon a series of odd jobs to buy it. But when the book is stolen, it’s up to Paddington and the Browns to unmask the thief. Will the nation’s much loved bear be able to recover the stolen book? Primary Times have five Paddington 2 DVDs and merchandise bundles to give away. For your chance to win, tell us the name of the family Paddington lives with. See below for details of how to enter.

Win a Mega Stationery Bundle with STABILO

Competitions

Competitions STABILO’s colouring, writing and highlighting products mean that your pencil case can be filled to the brim with a gorgeous range of colours and tools, from soft pastels to bold brights! For details of all the fabulous items available, visit www.stabilo.co.uk. Now you have the chance to win a mega stationery collection, just in time to get creative before Christmas! STABILO is giving away a whopping bundle of colouring, writing and highlighting products. The prize bundle includes: STABILO Cappi’s Colouring Pens STABILO Trio Colouring Pencils STABILO EASYbuddy Pen STABILO power Colouring Pens STABILO NEON Highlighters STABILO BOSS MINI Pastellove To be in with a chance of winning one of five bundles, tell us what shade you would colour in an elephant (we’d go for pink!). See below for details of how to enter.

Learn to Fly at Brighton Dome! circus equipment (also suitable for wheelchair users). Participants must be at least 5 years old. The lesson will take place between 18 – 23 December depending on availability. To be in with a chance of winning, all you need to do is complete the word search. Then ﬁll out the form with your details and send them both to Brighton Dome Competition, Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London SE12 8LG, or scan a copy of your completed form and email it to competitions@primarytimes.biz with ‘Brighton Dome’ as the subject, by Friday 7 December.

This Christmas, audiences at Brighton Dome Concert Hall will be treated to HOME, a new circus show from Pirates of the Carabina, a trailblazing company of world-class performers, musicians and acrobats. Primary Times has four tickets to HOME on Saturday 15 December to give away to one lucky reader. The winner will also get a ‘meet and greet’ and photographs with the performers after the show, and two of the group will be able to take part in a ‘ﬂying lesson’ with some of the Pirates and their

L E S U O R A C S N N H M A G I C T K L Can you find these words? D O M E F R A T S A Circle each one P M T L P B S S U C L E Y H O F E S C I Brighton • Dome • Home • Pirates A G L R G G T T R T • Carabina • Circus • Acts • Acrobats Y K C L D I A C I R • Vertical • Trapeze • Fly • Carousel F A N I B A R A C E U M R A H C I B M V • Playful • Magic • Charm L X C T R A P E Z E Name ...................................................................................................................................................................... Age...............................................................School ............................................................................................... Address .................................................................................................................................................................. ............................................................................................................................................................................... ...............................................................................................................................................................................

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 18 January 2019.

Learn to Fly at Brighton Dome! If you are entering more than one competition you can put all entries in the same envelope.

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

To be in with a chance of winning, all you need to do is complete the word

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for November through to February

December Sun 9 Dec

Christmas Carol Concerts, Sheffield Park and Garden, Uckfield, TN22 3QX

(Also 16 Dec) 6.30-8.30pm. This family-friendly concert with The Knole Singers will get you in the festive mood and provides the opportunity for the audience to sing along with the choir. Booking is essential. Charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ sheffield-park-and-garden

We Could Be Heroes: A Family Friendly Afternoon Rave, Towner Art Gallery, Eastbourne, BN21 4JJ

2-5pm. Tot Rockin’ Beats present an amazingly funky, fancy dressed, three hour, family-friendly, hip-hop & 90s Dance, block party. Charges apply. For more details visit www. townereastbourne.org.uk

Mon 10 Dec

Tales for Toddlers, De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill, TN40 1DP

(Also 14 Jan) 10.15am, 11.15am. Feel-good-fun for little ones with storytellers Treasure Tots. Suitable for under 5s. Charges apply. For more details visit www.dlwp.com

Tues 11 Dec

Festive Jumpers, Fontwell Park Racecourse, Arundel, BN18 0SY Get into the festive spirit at Fontwell Park. The Christmas Jumpers race day is back by popular demand with prizes to win and fun promised for the whole family. Under 18s go free. Charges apply. For more information visit www.fontwellpark.co.uk

Fri 14 Dec

Raystede Stargazing and Meteor Shower, BN8 5AJ

8pm. Enjoy an evening of Stargazing, and the rare opportunity to see this meteor shower, whilst helping the animals at the same time. Charges apply. For more details visit www. raystede.org

Fri 14 – Mon 24 Dec

Santa Claus and the Magical Christmas Journey, White Rock Theatre, Hastings Go along and enjoy a brand new Christmas adventure with songs, stories, a meet and greet with Santa and a free gift. Charges apply and booking is essential. For more details visit www.whiterocktheatre.org.uk

Sat 15 Dec

Christmas Craft Day, Hove Museum and Art Gallery, BN3 4AB 10am-5pm. Start off the Christmas season with something for the whole family. There are lots of free activities on offer, join a Christmas

decoration workshop and make a gift for a friend. Charges apply. For more details visit brightonmuseums.org.uk

Christmas Decoration Making, Alfriston Clergy House, Polegate, BN26 5TL 11am-3.30pm. Prepare for Christmas and have a go at making some natural decorations. Make beautiful handmade decorations using natural materials. Drop-in activity. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/alfristonclergy-house

Sat 15 – Sun 16 Dec

An Evacuees Christmas, Michelham Priory, Hailsham, BN27 3QS

11am-4pm. Take part in a wartime classroom lesson and try your hand at writing a message in Morse code. Participate in a Home Guard Drill or make a super special paper aeroplane and take part in a flying competition. For more details visit www.sussexpast.co.uk

Sat 15 – Sun 23 Dec

Father Christmas, Preston Manor, BN1 6SD

(Selected dates) 10am-5pm. Father Christmas and his Elf return for a traditional nostalgic treat for all the family with the added fun of children’s trails and dressing-up. Charges apply. For more details visit brightonmuseums.org.uk/ prestonmanor

Sun 16 Dec

Raver Tots, Komedia, Brighton, BN1 1UN 11.30am. Enjoy a family rave where kids and grownups can hit the dance floor together. There is lots of fun including face painting, UV lights, bubbles, balloons, confetti and giant parachutes in a party style atmosphere. Charges apply. For more information visit www.komedia.co.uk

Raver Tots x Star Shaped, Komedia, Brighton, BN1 1UN

2pm. Enjoy a brand new Britpop party where kids and grownups can hit the dancefloor together. A percentage of all profits go to charities that support children with Autism and ADHD. Charges apply. For more information visit www. komedia.co.uk

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

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

“

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

”

Christmas Carols, Buchan Country Park, Crawley, RH11 9HQ

10.30am. There will be singing, mince pies, punch, cakes, and Christmas tombola. All donations and proceeds from the event will go towards helping to improve Buchan Country Park. For more details visit www. fobcp.org.uk

Film Screening: A Cat in Paris (PG), Towner Art Gallery, Eastbourne, BN21 4JJ

10.30am. Watch the charming story of Dino, a cool cat that leads a double life. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www. townereastbourne.org.uk

Christmas Wreath Walk, Saddlescombe Farm, Devil’s Dyke, BN45 7DE

Create your own Christmas wreath with materials collected from the downs. Booking is essential. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ saddlescombe-farm-and-newtimberhill

Wed 19 Dec

Meet Green Father Christmas, Weald & Downland Living Museum, PO18 0EU

10.30am-4pm. Seated in his chamber, traditionally decorated with seasonal greenery, Green Father Christmas will be selecting presents from a large wooden chest to give to each child that he meets. Charges apply. For more details visits www.wealddown. co.uk

Wed 19 Dec – Thurs 3 Jan

The Star of Bethlehem, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8AE 7.30pm. In this cosmic detective story, journey back in time to see the night sky of over 2000 years ago. Ages 6-15. Charges apply. For more information visit www.southdowns.org.uk

A Horsted Christmas, Sheffield Park Station, TN22 3QL

7.30pm. Depart from either Sheffield Park or East Grinstead Station and travel through the beautiful Sussex countryside. Included in the cost is the chance to meet Father Christmas, a special Christmas puppet show and more. Charges apply. For more details visit www.bluebell-railway.com

Visit Hello Kitty in her beautiful themed house and have a souvenir photo taken with the cutest girl herself. Meet and greet opportunities will operate at intervals throughout the day. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.drusillas.co.uk

Sat 22 Dec

To the Moon and Back, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8AE 11.30am. Relive the great excitement and drama of the historic flight of Apollo 8 fifty years ago, with enhanced film footage and still images from the time. Ages 6-15. Charges apply. For more information visit www. southdowns.org.uk

The Star of Bethlehem, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8AE

Film Screening: Arthur Christmas (U), Towner Art Gallery, Eastbourne, BN21 4JJ

Find all of the hidden clues around the museum and win a cracker. For more details visit www.hmag.org.uk

Thurs 20 Dec

Join children’s storyteller Kevin Graal for a lively celebration of festive fun and seasonal tales from around the world, followed by making festive greetings cards. Ages 5+ For more details visit www.hmag.org.uk

(Also 24 Dec) 11am-4pm. Go along to the Marina to get the chance to meet Father Christmas and tell him what you’d like this year. For more details visit www.brightonmarina. co.uk

3.30pm. Relive the great excitement and drama of the historic flight of Apollo 8 fifty years ago, with enhanced film footage and still images from the time. Ages 6-15. Charges apply. For more information visit www. southdowns.org.uk

1.30pm. In this cosmic detective story, journey back in time to see the night sky of over 2000 years ago. Ages 6-15. Charges apply. For more information visit www.southdowns.org.uk

Festive Family Trail, Hastings Museum and Art Gallery, TN34 1ET

Christmas Grotto, Brighton Marina, BN2 5WA

To the Moon and Back, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8AE

Hello Kitty, Drusillas Park, Alfriston, BN26 5QS

Mon 17 – Fri 21 Dec

Festive Family Trail, Hastings Museum and Art Gallery, TN34 1ET

Fri 21 Dec

10.30am. Santa’s clumsy son Arthur sets out on a mission with St. Nick’s father to give out a present they misplaced to a young girl in less than two hours. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www. townereastbourne.org.uk

Sun 23 Dec

The Star of Bethlehem, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8AE

1.30pm, 3.30pm. In this cosmic detective story, journey back in time to see the night sky of over 2000 years ago.Ages 6-15. Charges apply. For more information visit www.southdowns.org.uk

Mon 24 Dec For lots more What’s On ideas see page 22... Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Sussex

Film Preview Guide Mortal Engines Thousands of years after civilization was destroyed by a cataclysmic event, humankind has adapted and a new way of living has evolved. Gigantic moving cities now roam the Earth, ruthlessly preying upon smaller traction towns.Tom Natsworthy, who hails from a Lower Tier of the great traction city of London, finds himself fighting for his own survival after he encounters the dangerous fugitive Hester Shaw. Hester emerges as the only one who can stop London - now a giant, predator city on wheels - from devouring everything in its path. Feral, and fiercely driven by the memory of her mother, Hester must join forces with Tom.Two opposites, whose paths should never have crossed forge an unlikely alliance that is destined to change the course of the future. Mortal Engines is the startling new epic adventure directed by Christian Rivers. Mortal Engines will be in UK cinemas from 14 December. www.mortalengines.com.

Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck It Ralph 2 In Ralph Breaks the Internet:Wreck It Ralph 2,Vanellope von Schweetz along with her best friend, Ralph, ventures into the uncharted world of the internet. On a quest to save Vanellope’s racing game, she and Ralph set off on a mission to find a new part. How will these two misfits ever succeed in this vast new world? In way over their heads, Ralph and Vanellope rely on the citizens of the internet, the netizens, to help navigate their way, including a website entrepreneur named Yesss, who is the head algorithm and the heart and soul of trend-making website, Buzztube. When Vanellope finds herself surrounded by Disney princesses, she’s surprised to learn that she actually has a lot in common with them. Featuring Sarah Silverman as the voice of Vanellope, Ralph Breaks the Internet:Wreck It Ralph 2 opens in UK cinemas on 30 November.

Pokémon the Movie: The Power of Us Pokémon the Movie:The Power of Us, will be in cinemas on 24 November and 1 December, with additional screening in selected cinemas until 3 December. Based on the globally popular Pokémon brand, the film tells a new story of Ash and Pikachu as they team up with diverse characters to face unique challenges and thrilling Pokémon battles in a heartwarming film that illustrates the value of teamwork.The new installment takes place in the seaside town of Frau City, where an annual festival celebrating the legendary Pokémon Lugia is held each year. The feature-length anime film has a unique art style, new characters, and some exciting and fun surprises. Continuing from last year’s Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You, it follows Ash and Pikachu as they continue with their Pokémon-capturing adventures. For more information, visit www.fathomanimation.com.

Mary Poppins Returns Set in Depression-era London, Michael Banks (Ben Whishaw) has taken a temporary job with Fidelity Fiduciary Bank in London. He lives with his three children,Annabel, John and Georgie, but times are tough and money is tight.The family is also struggling to cope with the recent death of Michael’s wife, and the house is rundown and in a constant state of chaos, despite the efforts of their inefﬁcient yet well-meaning housekeeper, Ellen (Julie Walters).The children ﬁnd themselves taking on adult responsibilities and growing up much too fast. As Michael’s relationship with his children continues to deteriorate, the bank’s Mr Wilkins (Colin Firth) begins foreclosure proceedings on the Banks’ home, sending the already frazzled Michael into a further tailspin. Fortunately, Mary Poppins (Emily Blunt), the practically-perfect nanny, enters their lives once again, having not aged a single day. She teams up with an old friend, Jack (Lin-Manuel Miranda), and together they take the Banks children on a series of whimsical adventures, bringing life, love and laughter back into their home. Mary Poppins will be released on 21 December. Photo credit: Jay Maidment 2018 Disney Enterprises, Inc.

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, the creative minds behindThe Lego Movie and 21 Jump Street, bring their unique talents to a fresh version of a different SpiderMan Universe, with a ground breaking visual style that’s the ﬁrst of its kind. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse introduces Brooklyn teen Miles Morales, and the limitless possibilities of the Spider-Verse, where more than one can wear the mask. Bob Persichetti and Peter Ramsey direct, along with Rodney Rothman. Spiderman: Into the Spider-Verse will be released on 12 December.

Win a Nativity Rocks! Prize Bundle

The kids from St Bernadette’s Primary School are back as the staff and students audition for a coveted place in a spectacular rock opera. With preparations in full swing, Jerry Poppy arrives to reunite with his long-lost brother only to find he has emigrated. However, he’s soon enlisted to help stressed out teacher Mr Johnson get St Bernadette’s through the auditions. In the midst of the excitement, a new classmate Doru arrives. Separated from his dad on his dangerous journey to the UK, Doru is without a family at Christmas. When Doru runs away to try and find his dad, it’s down to the children to find him and to bring everyone back to what’s really important. In UK cinemas now. Primary Times have five Nativity Rocks! prize bundles to give away.

For your chance to win, tell us the name of the new student in class. Send your answer to Nativity Rocks! Competition, Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London SE12 8LG or email it to competitions@primarytimes.biz with ‘Nativity Rocks! Competition’ as the subject by Friday 18 January. 26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for November through to February

December The Star of Bethlehem, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8AE

1.30pm. In this cosmic detective story, journey back in time to see the night sky of over 2000 years ago. Ages 6-15. Charges apply. For more information visit www.southdowns. org.uk

All Aboard - A Tour of the Planets, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8AE 3.30pm. Go along to the Planetarium for a flight of fancy to explore planetary neighbours. Fasten your seat belts for the trip of a lifetime. Ages 6-15. Charges apply. For more information visit www.southdowns. org.uk

Wed 26 Dec

Wintertime Stars, Moon and Planets, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8AE

Enjoy hours of entertainment in an atmosphere full of festive cheer for the whole family. Under 18s go free. The most prestigious race in England, The King George VI Chase will played on the big screen. Charges apply. For more information visit www. fontwellpark.co.uk

1.30pm. Enjoy a guided tour of some of the celestial wonders which are on view during the winter months. Ages 6-15. Charges apply. For more information visit www.southdowns. org.uk

Boxing Day Racing, Fontwell Park Racecourse, Arundel, BN18 0SY

Boxing Day Walk, Standen House and Garden, East Grinstead, RH19 4NE

11am-1pm. Work off any festive overindulgence with Boxing Day and New Year’s Day strolls through the garden and estate with the Head Gardener. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ standen-house-and-garden

Thurs 27 Dec

To the Moon and Back, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8AE

Thurs 27 Dec – Tues 1 Jan Traditional Circus, Squires Garden Centre Washington, RH20 3BP

(Selected times) The traditional Circus returns with an all new show for families to come back and be wowed again. Witness a succession of world-class acts, as they amaze and entertain you under the Big Top. Charges apply. For more details visit www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk

Sat 29 Dec

Hubble’s View of the Universe, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8AE 3.30pm. Learn all about the Hubble Space Telescope. Ages 6-15. Charges apply. For more information visit www.southdowns.org.uk

Distant Worlds: Alien Life, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8AE 1.30pm. Find out about the discoveries and the exciting possibilities for the existence of Earth-like worlds beyond our Solar System, and the alien life that may inhabit them. Ages 6-15. Charges apply. For more information visit www.southdowns.org.uk

Film Screening: The Nightmare Before Christmas (PG), Towner Art Gallery, Eastbourne, BN21 4JJ 2pm. Follow the story of Jack Skellington, beloved Pumpkin King of Halloweentown who after growing tired of the annual scares of Halloween, is delighted to stumble across the bright lights of Christmastown. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www. townereastbourne.org.uk

Fri 28 Dec

Wild Families - Brilliant Birds, RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Wiggonholt, RH20 2EL

10.30am-12.30pm. Spend the morning looking at brilliant birds that live at the nature reserve. Begin with a mixture of games and activities to hone bird spotting and identification skills and then head out onto the reserve to put them to the test. Charges apply.Visit www.rspb.org. uk/PTPul

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

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

“

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

January

”

Tues 1 Jan

New Year’s Day Walk, Standen House and Garden, East Grinstead, RH19 4NE 11am-1pm. Work off any festive overindulgence with Boxing Day and New Year’s Day strolls through the garden and estate with the Head Gardener. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ standen-house-and-garden

Sun 6 Jan

Look-Think-Make, De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill, TN40 1DP

2-4pm. Drop-in family friendly creative activities, with support from the DLWP team and volunteers. Suitable for all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Charges apply. For more details visit www. dlwp.com

Fri 11 Jan

Fri 18 Jan

Wintertime Stars, Moon and Planets, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8AE 7.30pm. Enjoy a guided tour of some of the celestial wonders which are on view during the winter months. Ages 6-15. Charges apply. For more information visit www.southdowns. org.uk

Sat 19 Jan

Togi’s Team – Mosaic Madness, Fishbourne Roman Palace, PO19 3QR

10am-12.30pm. Explore Fishbourne’s fantastic mosaics and discover how they were designed, made and used. See how archaeologists look after our Roman floors and have a go at making a mosaic yourself. Ages 6-12. For more details visit www. sussexpast.co.uk

Sat 19 – Sun 20 Jan

Wild Families Big Garden Birdwatch, RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Wiggonholt, RH20 2EL

11am-3pm. Make a bird feeder to hang in your garden, take part in a mini garden birdwatch and play some games to help you hone your bird spotting skills just in time for the big weekend. Charges apply. www.rspb. org.uk/PTPul

Sun 20 Jan

The January Wolf Moon, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8AE

Little Museum Visitors, Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft, BN6 8SP

10.30am-12noon. Fun, hands-on creative sessions for the minivisitor and parent. Packed full of sticking, drawing, storytelling and object discovery. Each workshop will have a different theme. Charges apply. For more details visit www. ditchlingmuseumartcraft.org.uk

3.30pm. The Full Moon on January 20th is traditionally known as the Wolf Moon by the Native Americans, it appeared when wolves howled in hunger outside the villages. Find out more about all these exciting events. Ages 6-15. Charges apply. For more information visit www.southdowns. org.uk

Sun 13 Jan

Fri 25 Jan

11am-4pm. Join graphics and illustration students from the University of Brighton who have designed fun-packed drawing and typographic activities for all ages to get involved in. For more details visit www.ditchlingmuseumartcraft.org.uk

7.30pm. Go along to the Planetarium for a guided tour of some of the celestial wonders which are on view during the winter months. Ages 6-15. Charges apply. For more information visit www.southdowns.org.uk

Scrap Band, Chichester Festival Theatre, PO19 6AP

The Northern Lights, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8AE

Stars on Frosty Winter Nights, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8AE

Design, Draw, Print, Play, Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft, BN6 8SP

1pm. Before the Family Concert with the BBC Concert Orchestra, make your own instruments out of everyday objects and make a big noise in the Junk Orchestra. Charges apply. For more details visit www.cft. org.uk

The Northern Lights, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8AE

Sun 27 Jan

3.30pm. Go along to the Planetarium to understand how eruptions on the Sun cause displays of the Northern Lights, and how these are visible from the ground. Ages 6-15. Charges apply. For more information visit www. southdowns.org.uk Our next copy deadline is

18 January 2019. If you have something you would like us to try and publicise (space permitting) please email it to

listings@ primarytimes.biz

All your own work! Rosie Tyrie aged 8

Elsa Forbes aged 6 Bradley and Logan Dean each won a Kindle with competitions in our October Half Term issue. Amelia Congratulations to the following people who won w State Circus winners were Stacey the Primary Times Christmas Card' competition. Mosco Leaders are Readers. Gabriel Eufrasia won the 'Design Smith, Andrea Michael and Anna. Our Louisa Hart, Tilly Shah, Simran Karen Virtue, Lรกslรณ Nagy, Macfarlane, Stella Marie Renfrew, Claire McFadden, Adele Griffiths won tickets for ice and e ers won tickets to the Assembly Hall Theatr Rose Theatre winner was Rylie Webber. Will Saund e. Grinch goody bags were won by Theatr Hazlitt the at n Aladdi to nce a VIP experie skating in Tunbridge Wells. Carrie-Ann Barton won ice skating tickets were won by Palace Court Graham and Hudson Jones. Hampton Leon Taylor, Matthew Clarke, Harry Connor, Keziah Belaid Boukhirane. Mia Jenkins and mar Sivaku Aparna Busby, Sophia , , Grace Offord Ellie Bignold, Emily Utting, Lewis Khoo, Olivia Molloy for her school - Hawkhurst books of box a Show. Isabelle Holly Louise Edwards won won tickets to the Orange Tree Theatre Christmas s runner and tition compe Castle mini-break Primary School. Allan Hopkins aged 4 won our Leeds , Arabella Lincoln, Ronnie Tietjen and Charlotte If you would like to see up prizes were won by Amelia Shaw, Caspar Nalepa tition for the under 8s and Rosie Tyrie won it for the your work displayed Nardini. Elsa Forbes won the Annie drawing compe the artwork on this page. older group. Well done to all our winners and enjoy

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

Thank you Prajina Gopikrishna for her cute Cat, Piotr Mickiewicz for his Alexander Dennis Enviso 400 bus, Ayzza for the fun dinosaur drawing and Josha-Marie for her very seasonal drawing. We love seeing your work so do please keep sending it to us.

atie lown’s K Shivering Snowman

What kind of ball doesn’t bounce? A Snow Ball!

Snow Word Search K

M C

O A

C O A

O C A

D Q

E M

V G U G O

N O W B

N O W M A N

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Can you find all these words in the word search? Snowman, Icicle, Cold, Carrot, Coal, Scarf, Gloves, Hat, Snowflake, Melt,Frosty,Freezing, Fun, Snowball, Sledge, Mittens, Flurry

A n s w e r s

Winter Sudoku

What’s a snowman’s favourite cereal? Frosties!

Where do snowmen get the weather report? The Winternet!

What do you call a snowman Can you draw a picture or write a poem in the summer? A puddle! about anything to do with Winter? Send it to us to have a chance of winning a Primary Times Tee Shirt AND seeing your prize winning entry published in the next Primary Times! Categories: ages 4-7 and 8-11 Name: Age: Address:

Postcode: School:

Send your entry together with this completed form to:

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

competitions@primarytimes.biz

Closing date 18 January 2019. Good Luck!

What does a snowman put on his face at night? Cold cream!

Colouring Corner