East London October Half Term 2018 Primary Times by Alison Watson

e e r f

for families IDE with primary U G N aged children O S ’ AT H W

October Half Term Issue 62 8 October - 25 November 2018

in East London THEATRE ROYAL STRATFORD EAST PRESENTS

stratfordeast.com

Book by Sarah A Nixon and Mark Chatterton Music and Lyrics by Robert Hyman

The Best Family Guide to What’s On

Film & DVD Preview Guide Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween Sonny Quinn and his best friend Sam, or the ‘Junk Brothers’, are known for collecting discarded stuff other people don’t want.This leads them into the path of Slappy, the mischievous ventriloquist dummy who is up to no good. Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween follows the Quinn family as they face an entirely new set of spooky, exciting and funny events. At ﬁrst Slappy wants nothing more than to be part of the family, but when his antics go too far, Sonny and Sam realise that this obsessive puppet must be stopped. Rejected, Slappy decides to build his own “family” by kidnapping Sonny’s mother and causes further disruption, bringing all his Halloween friends back to life.The town is turned into a Halloween disaster full of freaky creatures and creepy garden gnomes.The boys, Sonny’s sister Sarah and their neighbour Mr Chu team up to save Kathy and the town from Slappy’s wicked plan, but will they succeed? Goosebumps 2 is released in cinemas on 19 October.

Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald

Coming out before our Christmas magazine, Fantastic Beasts:The Crimes of Grindelwald is the second instalment of the new series of magical films following Newt Scamander with screenplay by J.K. Rowling.At the end of the first film, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Gellert Grindelwald was captured by MACUSA (Magical Congress of the United States of America) with the help of magizoologist Newt Scamander. However Grindelwald has escaped and has set about gathering followers to eventually raise pure-blood wizards to rule over all non-magical beings.Albus Dumbledore enlists Scamander to help in an effort to stop Grindelwald, however he is unaware of the dangers that lie ahead. Fantastic Beasts:The Crimes of Grindelwald will be released in cinemas on 16 November.

The Nutcracker & the Four Realms

All Clara wants is a key – a one-of-a-kind key that will unlock a box that holds a priceless gift from her late mother. At her godfather Drosselmeyer’s holiday party, a golden thread leads her to the key; however it disappears into a strange and mysterious world. It’s there that Clara encounters a soldier named Phillip, a gang of mice and the regents who rule over three Realms: Land of Snowﬂakes, Land of Flowers and Land of Sweets. Clara and Phillip must brave the ominous Fourth Realm, home to the tyrant Mother Ginger.Will they retrieve the key and return harmony to the unstable world? Featuring the Sugar Plum Fairy, Disney’s new magical holiday feature ﬁlm “The Nutcracker and the Four Realms” is inspired by E.T.A Hoffmann’s classic tale and is in cinemas from 26 October.

The Grinch

Smallfoot

What if something you think doesn’t exist, thinks you don’t exist? What if the giant yetis of legend are real and the stories we tell about them—with their thick wild hair, booming roars and enormous feet—are like the tall tales they tell about us…but with a twist. To them, we’re strangely hairless little beasts with screechy voices and freakishly small feet.And entirely imaginary. That is, until one yeti sees a human with his own eyes and becomes a believer. News of this “smallfoot” throws the simple yeti community into an uproar over what else might be out there in the big world beyond their snowy village, in an all new story about friendship, courage and the joy of discovery. Smallfoot is an animated adventure for all ages, with an all-star cast and original music due in cinemas on 12 October.

The Grinch tells the story of a cynical grump who goes on a mission to steal Christmas. Benedict Cumberbatch lends his voice to the infamous Grinch, who lives a solitary life inside a cave on Mount Crumpit. Rigged with inventions and contraptions for his day-to-day needs, the Grinch only sees his neighbours in Who-ville when he runs out of food. Every Christmas, the Whos disrupt the Grinch’s tranquil solitude with their celebrations, and when they declare they are going to make Christmas three times bigger this year, the Grinch realises he must steal Christmas. Meanwhile, Cindy-Lou is plotting to trap Santa Claus on Christmas Eve so that she can thank him for helping her overworked single mother. As Christmas approaches however, her good-natured scheming threatens to collide with the Grinch’s more nefarious one.Will Cindy-Lou achieve her goal or will the Grinch succeed in silencing the Whos’ holiday cheer once and for all? The Grinch will be in cinemas on 9 November.

March of the Penguins 2: The Next Step

A decade after the release of the documentary March of the Penguins, return to the Antarctic and join ﬁlmmaker Luc Jacquet as he uses airborne drones, under-ice diving and incredible technology to capture a glimpse into the astonishing lives of these mysterious creatures in an entirely new light. The Next Step follows the heart-warming tale of a ﬁrst-time father and his new-born chick as they learn to thrive in the world’s harshest conditions and overcome the almost unimaginable challenges of life. March of the Penguins 2:The Next Step will be available on digital download, DVD and Blu-Ray™ from 5 November.

WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN

To be in with a chance of winning one of ﬁve The Grinch goody bags, send an email to competitions@primarytimes.biz with ‘The Grinch’ as the subject by Friday 9 November. Don’t forget to include your name, age, address, school and contact telephone number.

8 Oct - 25 Nov 2018

Dear Readers Primary Times in East London 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG Tel: 020 8318 0400 Email: office@primarytimes.biz Website: www.primarytimes.co.uk Twitter: @PT_LondonSandE Instagram: @primarytimesse

Phew that was a quick half term, or it felt that way to us! Welcome to the latest issue of Primary Times, out just in time for October Half Term. Welcome also to Dingile who is our new Listings Editor. She has done a fantastic job finding hundreds of ideas for you all to have a brilliant half term so do let the organisers know that you read about them in Primary Times. Do also check the latest information by contacting them before you visit. Our listings are prepared a long time in advance and details can change.

Fancy winning a weekend away at the wonderful Leeds Castle including entrance fees, bed and breakfast? Then look no further and enter our Leeds Castle competition. With Leeds Castle you can explore Publishing Editor: Peter Watson almost nine centuries of history and discover the gardens, maze, Sales: Lola Olowofela, Gill Pearce, falconry and much more. Look out for our other competitions too and Andrew Langridge & Catherine Dillon don’t forget to include your contact details when you enter them Listings: Dingile Kasote There will be lots of firework displays happening soon. We looked on Editorial: Alina McCrone the RoSPA website and these were their top ten tips on how to stay Production: Alison Watson safe. Office Manager: Chris Blower Administrators: Claire Wood & 1 Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable. Tina Love 2 Keep fireworks in a closed box and use them one at a time. Proof Reader: Catherine Draisey 3 Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if Social Media: Rachel Benson necessary. Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in primary 4 Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back. and junior schools throughout the boroughs of Barking & Dagenham, Havering, Newham, Redbridge, Tower Hamlets and Waltham Forest. Its 5 Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks. aims are to inform families and children of current educational issues, 6 Never return to a firework once it has been lit. forthcoming events, courses and attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding 7 Don’t put fireworks in pockets and never throw them. 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 8 Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators. whatsoever. We also undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best 9 Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire. interests of young children. The opinions expressed in either the editorial or advertisements within this publication are not necessarily those held 10 Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe by the editor or publisher. While we take great care with the compilation before leaving. of information within this magazine, neither the editor nor publisher will accept any liability for the accuracy of the editorial or advertising Visit www.saferfireworks.com/firework_code for lots more advice contained within the publication. We welcome listings being sent to us for inclusion in our What’s On section. Free listings are dependent on available space and we cannot guarantee to print all the listings we are sent. Please send them to listings@primarytimes.biz. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in the boroughs of Barking & Dagenham, Havering, Newham, Redbridge, Tower Hamlets and Waltham Forest for their assistance in distributing the magazine and for their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible. Please support their endeavours when and where you can. No part of this magazine, including the advertisements within it may be reproduced, in part or in whole, without the express written permission of the Publishing Editor. Primary Times is currently publishing over 2.5 million copies per issue under franchise licences throughout England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Primary Times East London is operated under franchise licence.

Contents

inside this issue.... News.........................................4 What’s On.................................6 Family Theatre..........................9 Autumn Adventures....................12 Education News....................... 16 After School Activities............. 18 Competitions........................... 21 All Your Own Work!.................23

Look out for our wonderful winter magazine from 26 November.

Peter and the Primary Times team

When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it

8 Oct - 25 Nov 2018

News

Halloween What’s New

Halloween Hairlights

Get ready for Halloween and change your hair colour for the day with these temporary hair shadows that wash out when you shampoo. Follow the detailed activity guide and learn how to create the latest ombre look or create some vibrantly coloured highlights, perfect for an extra touch to a Halloween costume.The kit contains six different hair shadows so you can follow the ultimate hair colour trends. Use your imagination and add a ﬂair of colour to your hair, and your Halloween. Hairlights, made by FabLab, are available online and from all good high street retailers for £9.99.

Sylvanian Families Baby Trick or Treaters Set

Sylvanian Families are back for some Halloween fun. In this Baby Trick or Treaters set, the Chocolate Rabbit baby is dressed in a witch costume and the Striped Cat baby is dressed in a ghost costume. The two babies can ride together in the pumpkin carriage and the set also includes pumpkin and ghost baskets as well as four types of Halloween-themed candy. The Baby Trick or Treaters set is available online for £16.99. For more information please visit www.sylvanianfamilies.co.uk.

Snazaroo Halloween Pack

Snazaroo have created a brand new way to face paint with their Snazaroo Brush Pens. They’re a clever combination of paint and brush designed to bring ideas to life. The pen is designed to make it easy to get the biggest ideas or the smallest details just right, allowing full control over the amount of paint used. Snazaroo have now created a Halloween pack. It’s frighteningly easy to make ghouls and ghosts using the black, white and orange paints included, and the brush pens will allow to you add even more detail to your scary designs. Snazaroo’s Halloween pack is available on the high street and online for £9.99. For more information please visit www.snazaroo.co.uk.

8 Oct - 25 Nov 2018

Waltham Forest’s First Community Fridge On Monday 17 September, Transition Leytonstone launched London’s fifth Community Fridge and the first of its kind in Waltham Forest. The fridge was being launched with the backing of North London Waste Authority and Bosch in a growing effort to tackle food waste. Support also came from environmental charity Hubbub which runs the national Community Fridge Network. The solar powered fridge, located at Café de Montmartre in Church Lane, Leytonstone is open 12pm-3pm Monday to Friday to enable residents and businesses to share surplus food and for anyone to help themselves to quality food that would otherwise be wasted. It is the third London Fridge to be supported by North London Waste Authority to encourage residents to share their surplus food. To find out more, donate or volunteer, visit www. transitionleytonstone.org.uk. Also known as ‘Solidarity’ or ‘Honesty’ Fridges, Community Fridges have been successfully introduced in Spain, Germany and other parts of the UK. There are currently 33 Community Fridge Network Fridges open across the UK which on average redistribute half a ton of food per month.

Chrysalis Care Independent Fostering Agency Prepare to ‘leave’ 2018 with a bang! For many people, this time of year signals winding down and preparing for hibernation and end of year festivities.Yet, it’s an ideal time to take action towards your fostering journey, preparing the foundation for a brand new fostering adventure in 2019. After 21 years as a leading Independent Fostering Agency, Chrysalis Care provides all the advice and guidance you need, to join in transforming the lives of children and young people, through high quality foster care. Their foster carers are based across London, Kent, Essex, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire and benefit from expert 24 hour advice, guidance, training and support. If you have a spare room, a heart for children and young people and are ready for a new life adventure, please contact Chrysalis’s knowledgeable team today on 020 8298 2800, email info@chrysaliscare.org or visit www.chrysaliscarefostering.org.

Trees for Cities has recently celebrated Edible Playgrounds launch events at three London primary schools. Olga Primary in Tower Hamlets, St Anne’s in Lambeth and Gallions in Newham all opened their gardens to guests as they cut the ribbon on their new outdoor growing spaces. Our picture shows the edible playground at Gallions Primary School in Newham.There were speeches, guided tours of the garden space and performances from the children. One highlight was a Year 3 child from Olga Primary describing a salad of tomatoes and basil from their Edible Playground ‘Have you ever thought of growing your own juicy, ripe tomatoes? It is a feeling like no other, it is seriously the best feeling ever.’ It is urban schools like these, with little access to nature, that make ideal partners for the Edible Playgrounds programme, giving the children a chance to learn about growing and eating healthy fruit and veg, and to connect with nature in a way that would be very difficult for them otherwise.The impacts on the lives of the children at these schools is tangible. Linda Ewers, Head Teacher at Olga Primary, told Primary Times ‘A bare playground has been transformed. Our children are involved in the whole cycle of growing food – they are interested in what is growing and in the other life that can be found in the garden.’ Find out more about the Edible Playground programme, and the generous match fund opportunities currently available at www. treesforcities.org and www.countrysideclassroom.org.uk.

Do you ever see yourself as the author of a children’s book? The Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival and the Salariya Book Company have opened their Children’s Picture Book Prize competition. Launched in 2017, the competition is open to unpublished writers and illustrators so submit an entry by 31 January and have the chance to win a prize of £1000. A prestigious panel of judges will be reading the entries and the winner will receive career advice from a leading literary agent and publicity through the Stratford Literary Festival. The winning entry may also be published by Salariya imprint, Scribblers, in this once in a lifetime opportunity. Camille Whitcher, the most recent winner had her book Luna and The Moon Rabbit published in April 2018, with a launch reception in London and an event at the Stratford Literary Festival. Her book has also just been stocked by bookshops in the United States. If you are interested in writing and children’s books, then you don’t want to miss out. For details on how to apply go to www.stratlitfest.co.uk/bookcompetition

News

New Edible Playgrounds

Festival Children’s Book Prize

Fireman Sam: Set For Action

Fireman Sam returns in his new movie special ‘Fireman Sam: Set For Action’, where you will see the glamour and excitement of the Hollywood film industry take over Pontypandy, amongst all the action, excitement and big rescues that fans would expect! After a video of one of his daring rescues goes viral, Fireman Sam is scouted by Hollywood director Don Sledgehammer to be the star of his latest movie. While Sam is hesitant to take the role, his co-star, Hollywood actor Flex Dexter, is determined to get the lead part and will stop at nothing to get it. As more and more ‘accidents’ happen on set, Sam is held responsible and fired from both the movie and the Fire Service. Will Sarah, James and Mandy discover who is really behind all the accidents? Fireman Sam: Set For Action will air on Cartoonito on 22 October.

Anything Nose in Schools Next March Red Nose Day is back for 2019, and Comic Relief is calling on all teachers to clear their school’s diary on Friday 15 March to take part in the epic fundraising extravaganza. Red Nose Day is a time in the school year that students remember for a lifetime - donning a nose, dressing up and coming up with all kinds of wacky ways to raise funds for a good cause. It isn’t just an exciting opportunity to take part in a fantastic day of fundraising. Red Nose Day also gives students a great chance to learn more about the world around them and how Comic Relief is working to support vulnerable people both at home in the UK and around the globe. To help schools get red-y for a day of fundraising and events, teachers can now pre-order a free fundraising pack tailored specifically for primary schools. The packs are bursting with ideas – fundraising guides, posters, stickers and balloons – to help ensure schools will have an unforgettable time. Comic Relief also offers school curriculum materials and videos that teachers can use to help raise awareness of the world around them and those living incredibly tough lives. To have these tips, tools and classroom ideas land in your school’s post box this January, pre-order your pack now – just head to www.rednoseday.com/primarytimes. Comic Relief is a registered UK charity that aims to create a just world, free from poverty – where everyone is safe, healthy, educated and empowered. Since 1985, Comic

Relief has raised over £1 billion. That money has helped, and is helping, people both here at home in the UK and across the world. For more information about Comic Relief and the work it carries out, please visit www.comicrelief.com. 8 Oct - 25 Nov 2018

What’s On

Your family diary for October and November Ongoing Until 31 Oct

Kids for a Quid, Epping Ongar Railway (Selected dates) Kids can travel for a quid on most of the railway’s operating days in September and October. Take advantage of this special offer by booking online and using the discount code PTK4Q at the checkout. For more information visit www.eorailway.co.uk

Until 30 Nov

Until 16 Dec

The Wildlife Walk, RSPB Rainham Marshes, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ Take a wonderful wildlife walk around the marshes. Every season sees a different suite of wildlife for you to encounter. These regular walks will take place on the first Wednesday of the month at 9.30am, the second Friday of the month at 10am and on the third Sunday of the month at 1pm. Charges apply. For more details visit www.rspb.org.uk/ PTRai

Family Fridays, Sadler’s Wells Theatre, EC1R 4TN Led by professional dancers, come along to this unique opportunity designed to start you and the little ones on a dance journey. These sessions will encourage co-ordination, creative thinking and social interaction. Ages 2-4. For more information and to book visit www. sadlerswells.com

Islandborn

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

Perfect for Black History Month is Islandborn by Junot Díaz with illustrations by Leo Espinosa. Every kid in Lola’s school was from somewhere else. Hers was a school of faraway places. When Lola’s teacher asks the students to draw a picture of where their families immigrated from, all the kids are excited. Except Lola. She can’t remember the Island - she left when she was just a baby. But with the help of her family and friends, and their memories – joyous, fantastical, heartbreaking, and frightening – Lola’s imagination takes her on an extraordinary journey back to the Island. As she draws closer to the heart of her family’s story, Lola comes to understand the truth of her abuela’s words: ‘just because you don’t remember a place doesn’t mean it’s not in you.’ Gloriously illustrated and lyrically written, Islandborn is a celebration of creativity, diversity, and our imagination’s boundless ability to connect us – to our families, to our past and to ourselves. Published on 18 October at £10.99 and available at good high street and online bookshops, this is a great book for young readers (or those who enjoy being read to). 6

8 Oct - 25 Nov 2018

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Sat 13 Oct

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

Until Jan

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

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

Until 20 Jan

Dream On, V&A Museum of Childhood, Bethnal Green, E2 9PA A new exhibition which explores dreams, the unconscious and an imaginary world between sleep and wakefulness. The exhibition plays with the notion that objects come to life when we are not looking, much like our dreams when we fall asleep. For more information visit www.vam. ac.uk/moc

October Tues 9 – Sun 14 Oct

Fabula Festival, Redbridge Central Library, IG1 1EA A unique week-long celebration of the art of storytelling and its power to transform lives. It is delivered through a programme of performances, children’s events, talks, films, writing programmes, workshops and specially commissioned arts projects.Visit www.redbridge.gov.uk

Fri 12 Oct

Apple Cream Tea, Thames Chase Forest Centre, Upminster, RM14 3NS 2.30-4.30pm. Enjoy scrumptious scones with cream and jam, cakes and a pot of tea served to the accompaniment of live music. This month the musical cream tea will have a special apple theme to celebrate the autumnal harvest. For more information and to book call 01708 642 970.

Bikes and Bakes, Lee Valley VeloPark, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park 10am-12noon. Friends who pedal together, stay together so start your weekend with a morning cycle, a coffee and a cake! Minimum age 5 years. Charges apply. For more details visit www.visitleevalley.org.uk

Witch Is It? Museum of London Docklands, E14 4AL 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. Why did people think there were witches and how did Londoners protect themselves from their magic? Find out in this spellbinding session. Ages 5+. Free, drop-in. For more information visit www.museumoflondon.org.uk/ museum-london-docklands

Sun 14 Oct

Family Activities, Vestry House Museum, Walthamstow, E17 9NH 1.30-4pm. Join local artists for hands-on crafting inspired by Vestry House Museum’s collection and special exhibitions. Free. For more information visit www. vestryhousemuseum.org.uk

Tomorrow’s Warriors Mango Spice, Rich Mix, E1 6LA 11am. A fun and interactive performance workshop for families to enjoy together, exploring music and dance from the Caribbean diaspora; from folk-song and reggae to carnival and New Orleans parades. Free. For more information visit www.richmix.org.uk

The Highway Rat, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX 12noon. With the animated film projected on big screen, and live music performed by the London Philharmonic Orchestra, this is a wonderful first concert experience for all the family. There will also be Free FUNharmonics activities: 10am– 12noon. For more information and to book visit www.southbankcentre. co.uk

Family Studio: The Big Draw, Royal Academy of Arts, W1S 3ET 11am-3pm. Celebrate the diverse art of the region of Oceania, through music, storytelling and art across the RA campus. Learn about different designs from Tahiti, Samoa and the Cook Islands and draw your own to take home, led by Hatawa Vaike.Visit www.royalacademy.org.uk

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 8... Follow us on Instagram - @primarytimesse

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What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for October and November

October Mon 15 Oct

Dragon Babies, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX 11am. Take along your little ones to experience the sounds of Southbank Centre’s gamelan (Javanese orchestra) through singing, movement and play. Ages 3-5. For more information and to book visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Sat 20 Oct

Campfire Cooking, Rainham Hall, Havering, RM13 9YN (Also 24 Oct) 11am-3pm. Gather around the campfire to toast marshmallows! Ages 5-12. Charges apply and booking is essential. Halfhourly slots. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ rainham-hall

Redbridge Day of the Dead Festival, Redbridge Central Library, IG1 1EA 10am-4pm. This Mexican festival is a unique celebration, where those that we have loved and lost are remembered. Redbridge Libraries invite you to a vibrant celebration

of life and death in this free familyfriendly arts festival based on Dia de Los Muertos. For details visit www. redbridge.gov.uk

Kids Birdwatching Club, RSPB Rainham Marshes, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ 10am-12.30pm. One for the young wildlife lovers. Explore the reserve through the seasons, watching and learning about the birds that visit and live at the reserve. Charges apply. For more details visit www.rspb.org.uk/ PTRai

Still as Statues, Museum of London Docklands, E14 4AL (Also 23 and 25 Oct) 12noon and 2.30pm. Create a miniature Roman statue like those found buried

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

The Re-imagined Snowman One of the world’s most acclaimed children’s writers, Michael Morpurgo, has written a reimagining of the much-loved story by Raymond Briggs, The Snowman, 40 years after it was first published. The Snowman, published in 1978, is a hand-drawn, illustrated picture book that tells the extraordinary tale of a boy whose snowman comes to life and the magical adventures he shares with it one Christmas. Morpurgo’s chapter book will feature Briggs’ timeless characters, bringing them to a new, older audience and is suited to children aged 7 years and above to read alone. The new re-imagined version can help children to develop their reading skills, adding elements of detail, prose and charisma. However, it is still Briggs’ classic and charming tale loved by many, featuring tangerine noses and coal eyes. As a story that parents will remember and children are bound to love, the book is also perfect for families to read together with younger children. Along with beautiful illustrations by Robin Shaw, children’s imaginations can run wild as they read Morpurgo’s wonderful new tale. Join James and the Snowman this Christmas in an unforgettable story of a lifetime filled with friendship, magic and flying through the night sky. The Snowman will be available for £12.99 from 18 October.

8 Oct - 25 Nov 2018

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

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with ancient Londoners. Ages 5+. For more information visit www. museumoflondon.org.uk/museumlondon-docklands

Sat 20 – Sun 21 Oct

Apple Weekend, Thames Chase Forest Centre, Upminster, RM14 3NS 10am-4pm. Join us for our annual Apple Weekend! A celebration of autumnal harvest, including a market, music, games and activities for all the family to enjoy. For more information visit www.thameschase.org.uk

Discover Dogs, ExCeL London, E16 1XL 10am-5pm. London’s biggest doggy day out includes world-class displays and competitions, plenty of shops to treat your canine pal and the chance to meet over 200 different dog breeds, chat to their owners and find the right dog breed for you and your lifestyle. To book visit www.excel. london

Weaving an Odyssey, Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX 12noon. Get to grips with warp and weft and learn about a resourceful character from The Odyssey at a drop-in tapestry weaving workshop. Part of London Literature Festival. Ages 6-10. For more information visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Tales from the Odyssey, Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX 12.30pm and 2.30pm. Come on a journey with Wendy Shearer in an interactive live storytelling performance of tales from Homer’s Odyssey, featuring music, song and illustration. Part of London Literature Festival. For more information visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Sat 20 – Sun 28 Oct

Wild Things at Halloween, RSPB Rainham Marshes, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ 10am-12noon. At the RSPB, in the depths of mystical marshes there remain many beasts that go bump in the night. Wear fear-inspiring fancy dress and your weirdest wellies to follow a spooky trail onto the reserve. Charges apply. For more details visit www.rspb.org.uk/PTRai

Autumnal Trail, Rainham Hall, Havering, RM13 9YN (Selected dates) 11am-4pm. This seasonal trail will take you on a journey around the Rainham Hall gardens. Roll down the big hill, hide in the den or play in the leaves!

Ages 3-12. Charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/rainham-hall

Dr Gore’s Spooky Mad Lab, Royal Gunpowder Mills, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1JX 10am. Enjoy the perfect treat for all the little ghosts and ghouls out there. Dr Gore and his crew are ready to cause all types of havoc. The Mad Lab is where you will find the slime station to make all types of glorious goo and much more! Charges apply. Visit www.royalgunpowdermills.com

Halloween Fun, The Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, RM1 3RL 11am-4pm.Visit the spooky Halloween grotto, make decorations and masks in the arts and craft workshops and have some terrific fun during the trick or treat treasure hunt. For more information visit www.theliberty.co.uk

Party like a Pirate! V&A Museum of Childhood, V&A Museum of Childhood 10.30am-4pm. Come dressed up and ready for the unmissable week all about pirates! See a pop-up performance or join fun, piratethemed workshops. For more details visit www.vam.ac.uk/moc

Sat 20 Oct – Sun 4 Nov Mischief and Mayhem, Lee Valley Park Farms, EN9 2EF

Your favourite farmyard friends will be creating mischief and mayhem at Lee Valley Park Farms this October Half Term, make sure you join them for some spooky fun. Charges apply. For more information visit www. lvfarms.co.uk

Sun 21 Oct

Mwalimu Express, Rich Mix, E1 6LA 2pm. A glorious culturally conscious afternoon for the whole family featuring live music, cinema, dance, games, workshops and best of vibes. Free. For more information visit www.richmix.org.uk

Black Sheroes Month - Family Workshop, Rich Mix, E1 6LA 11.30am. Black Sheroes Art Workshops aim to re-think the actual meaning and purpose of the British BHM by focusing on important black women that made Britain great. Ages 5+. Charges apply. For more information visit www.richmix.org.uk

Apple Day, Spitalfields City Farm, E1 5AR Experience a fun family day with tea, cakes, apple tasting, music, poetry, the longest peel competition, apple pressing, Lutfun’s delicious apple chutney and more. For more information visit www. spitalfieldscityfarm.org

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

...oh yes it is! Woodford Pantomime’s Treasure Island

What is a pirate’s favourite subject at school? Arrrt of course! Polish your cutlasses, don your eyepatch and join Jim and his friends in Woodford Pantomime’s production of Treasure Island. Will Jim get to the buried treasure before Long John Silver and his gang of dastardly pirates? Or will that cunning captain and his wily old parrot Polly beat them to it? Go along and cheer Jim and his friends on, boo the mean old captain, sing along to all the songs and don’t forget to look behind you! After last year’s sell out performances of Jack and the Beanstalk, the cast and crew are looking forward to swashbuckling their way to Treasure Island. Along with lots of cheesy pirate jokes, it’s sure to be a fun filled time for all ages. So begin to practise your loudest boos and your biggest singing voices, ready to join in the fun running from 1 - 13 January. For more information, visit www.woodfordpantomime.co.uk. One last joke to keep families going until January - In case his ship sinks, why does every pirate always carries a bar of soap with him? To wash him ashore!

Sir James Hawkey Hall, Woodford Green IG8 0BG

Woodford Pantomime Presents

Sleeping Beauty at Stratford East

Theatre Royal Stratford East pantos offer a friendly and inclusive experience both kids and adults love and never forget. One audience member told Primary Times, “I was taken to Stratford East to the pantomime every year as a child, and every year I now make the journey all the way from Hastings with my own children just for the panto because it is simply the best there is. I hope they will bring their children one day. The panto at Stratford challenges their views and teaches them there are people who are different from them.” Another visitor commented, “It was the best panto we have ever

SAT 01 DEC – SAT 12 JAN

by Ben Crocker

1st–13 th January 2019 Card payments online & telephone bookings

01992 524462 www.woodfordpantomime.co.uk

THEATRE ROYAL STRATFORD EAST PRESENTS

Just 20 minutes from Central London

stratfordeast.com Box office: 020 8534 0310 VAT No. 233 3120 59

Family Theatre

seen, we will always come back here for panto, you really have got everything spot on, from diversity to songs, we totally loved it.” Sleeping Beauty has been in a deep sleep for a hundred years but wakes to find herself in a strange city with a cruel fairy hot on her heels... Expect their much loved mix of original songs, cracking jokes and a huge sprinkling of magic in London’s must-see pantomime. Over 27,000 people attended last year’s panto Rapunzel with The Stage calling it ‘A pantomime bursting with love’ and The Sunday Times called it, ‘My bid for a characterful London panto’. Sleeping Beauty is at Theatre Royal Stratford East from 1 December – 12 January. Book now at www.stratfordeast.com and join in the fun!

Book by Sarah A Nixon and Mark Chatterton Music and Lyrics by Robert Hyman

Charity No. 233801 Reg No. 556251

8 Oct - 25 Nov 2018

Family Theatre

6 – 7 Nov

The Snail and the Whale Join a tiny snail on her trip round the world in Tall Stories’ magical, musical production inspired by the bestselling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Storytelling, live music and lots of laughs for everyone aged 4+.

1 – 14 Dec

...oh yes it is! Eventim Apollo Box Office: 08442 491 000 19 – 31 Dec

Nativity! The Musical This feel-good, funny and full of festive joy, smash-hit musical has been adapted for the stage by Debbie Isitt, the creator of the much-loved films.

Hackney Empire E8 Box Office: 020 8985 2424 24 Nov – 6 Jan

28 Nov – 6 Jan

Jack and the Beanstalk

Sadler’s Wells Theatre EC1

1 – 23 Dec

Alice in Wonderland

‘Twas the Night before Christmas A magical festive treat!

Hackney Empire’s dream team are celebrating their 20th year at the helm of a certain twinklyPrimary our spectacular eyed, round-bellied Times! chap. Ages 3-7. pantomime. Join us on a magical journey through Redbridge Drama the much-loved tale of Aladdin!

Sir James Hawkey Hall Woodford Green Box Office: 01992 524 462 1 – 13 Jan

Treasure Island Expect the usual pantomime jaunts and jokes, together with plenty of pirate action as Treasure Island comes to Woodford Green. Ages 2+.

Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch Box Office: 01708 443 333 20 Oct

The Elves and the Shoemaker A brand-new Puppet Musical, retelling this classic fairy tale, featuring an original score of songs. Written and directed by Marc Day with original music by Chris Burgess. Ages 2+.

Rapunzel loves to dance, but will she ever get the chance to follow her dreams? With music, dance and lots of laughs, this is a modern adaptation of a classic tale. Can a dream come true? Ages 7+.

Fee-Fi-Fo-Fum, its panto fun for everyone! Join Jack and dotty mum Dame Trott as they scale the Beanstalk, outwit the Giant and are reunited with Jill, the girl Jack loves.

Leave your shoes Enjoy and slippers by the the show! fireplace and settle And don’t down to hear one forget to say child’s story about the night they met you saw it in

Aladdin

Rapunzel’s Christmas Dream

Centre

Box Office: 020 8708 8803 29 Oct

Snow Queen

Join a winter journey about growing up, loyalty, friendship and the dangers of the unknown. Ages 3+.

30 – 31 Oct

Guess How Much I Love You

Join Little & Big Nutbrown Hare, from the bestselling Guess How Much I Love You and I Love You All Year Round collection, as they leap off the page and onto the stage in this magical journey through the seasons. Ages 3+.

2 Nov

Anansi the Spider

Join the most troublesome spider in the world, Anansi, followed by his family, as he travels and experiences new life discoveries, whilst causing all types of trouble along the way. Ages 4+.

8 Oct - 25 Nov 2018

Box Office: 020 7863 8000 www.sadlerswells.com 13 Oct Let’s All Dance returns with this fabulous family favourite. Stunning dancing, much loved characters and super costumes bring the famous tale to life in this magical ballet production at the Lilian Baylis Studio. Ages 2-11.

18 – 20 Oct

3 Nov

Adrift

A poignant and important play that follows the story of two children adrift at sea fleeing conflict. It is a celebration of the resilience and imagination of childhood. Ages 8+.

10 Nov

Plink and Boo

An interactive circus theatre experience that playfully explores why sometimes people can’t fit into boxes, even if it is the neatest place to put them. Ages 2-5.

17 Nov

Jazz for Toddlers

A playful introduction to jazz, with live music, movement and games children can enjoy with their grown-ups. Giving families the opportunity to groove together, and proving you’re never too young to love jazz! Ages 2-5.

28 Nov – 24 Dec

The Gruffalo

Songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 3+ and their grown-ups, in this much-loved show that’s toured Britain and the world.

Theatre Royal, Drury Lane Box Office: lwtheatres.co.uk 0844 847 1515 14 Oct

Paddington in Concert

Chotto Desh A compelling tale of a young man’s dreams and memories from Britain to Bangladesh. Enjoy a magical, thrilling and poignant dance theatre experience for the whole family at the Lilian Baylis Studio. Ages 7+.

Celebrate the 60th anniversary of Paddington with a screening of the film accompanied by a live symphony orchestra performing the music by composer Nick Urata. Suitable for children aged 5+.

Theatre Royal Stratford East Box Office: 020 8534 0310 1 Dec – 12 Jan

22 Nov – 6 Jan

The Snowman Twinkling with festive spirit The Snowman returns for a record-breaking 21st year at The Peacock Theatre. Based on the book by Raymond Briggs which has transported a generation of children and their families into the wintery world of a boy and his magical snowman.

Sleeping Beauty

Sleeping Beauty has been in a deep sleep for 100 years... but wakes to find herself in a strange city with a cruel fairy hot on her heels. Expect a mix of original songs, cracking jokes and a sprinkling of magic in London’s must-see pantomime.

Wilton’s Music Hall

Stratford Circus Box Office: 020 8279 1080 25 – 27 Oct

Sleepyhead It’s been a long day for Dad and he can hardly keep his eyes open. All he wants is for Baby to go to sleep. Dad’s usually got some tricks up his sleeve but tonight, Baby has other ideas. Ages 2-5.

Box Office: 020 7702 2789 22 – 23 Nov

Tales from the Shed

A vibrant, interactive theatre show, perfect for young children. Chickenshed’s shows are informal, lively and amazingly engaging as the performers and audience share the same space within an inclusive environment. Ages 0-6.

Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood this year, as everyone’s favourite furry monster comes to life on stage at Stratford Circus Arts Centre. Searching for hazelnuts, Mouse meets the cunning Fox, the eccentric old Owl and the party mad Snake. Will the story of the terrifying Gruffalo save Mouse from ending up as dinner for these hungry woodland creatures? After all, there’s no such thing as a Gruffalo – is there? Based on the much loved picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, internationally acclaimed theatre company Tall Stories’ The Gruffalo is heading east for the festive period. This West End smash hit is full of songs, laughter, storytelling, and scary fun for children aged 3+ and their families. Voted the nation’s favourite bedtime story by BBC Radio 2 listeners, The Gruffalo is a real modern classic. This stage adaptation is set to a wonderfully catchy score with original music and lyrics. The Gruffalo is a must-see show which continues to entertain audiences the world over. Catch it at Stratford Circus Arts Centre from Wednesday 28 November – Monday 24 December. For full times and ticket prices, see www.stratford-circus.com.

The Snowman at The Peacock

Family Theatre

The Gruffalo at Stratford Circus

Forty years ago, Raymond Briggs’ beautifully illustrated book The Snowman transported children into the wintery wonderland of a boy and his snowy companion. Now, in its record-breaking 21st year at The Peacock, Birmingham Repertory Theatre’s twinkling production of The Snowman returns this Christmas as a magical mix of exquisite dancing and live music lift the boy and his friend from page to stage. The enchanting show tells the story of a young boy’s adventures when his snowman comes miraculously to life on Christmas Eve. Featuring a dazzling array of colourful characters including dancing penguins, a beautiful snow princess, her wicked beau Jack Frost and of course, Father Christmas himself, The Snowman is a Christmas treat for all the family and a perfect introduction to dance for the very young. Birmingham Repertory Theatre’s production of The Snowman has become “an essential part of London’s Christmas calendar” (Time Out). Featuring virtuoso choreography by Robert North and unforgettable music and lyrics by Howard Blake, including the timeless Walking in the Air, the performance has been seen by audiences of over half a million at The Peacock. The Times described the Snowman as, “Sheer theatrical magic. Go see The Snowman and melt.”

8 Oct - 25 Nov 2018

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for October and November

October The Housemaid’s Tour, Charles Dickens Museum, WC1N 2LX 10-11.45am. Step back in time to 1839 and walk in the footsteps of a celebrated young author. Enjoy an exclusive tour of the only house in which Dickens and his family lived in London that survives. Charges apply. For more information visit www. dickensmuseum.com

Mon 22 Oct

Explore and Learn – Autumnal Trees, Valentines Mansion, Ilford, IG1 4XA 11am-12noon. Explore the mansion grounds to find unusual shades and shapes of leaves. Use the leaves to inspire you. Create a personalised autumnal tree in a fun-packed arts and crafts session. Ages 4-8. Charges apply and pre-booking is essential. Visit www.valentinesmansion.com

Mon 22 – Fri 26 Oct

The Big Draw Festival, Bank of England Museum, EC2R 8AH 10am-4.30pm. This October Half Term take part in the nationwide Campaign for Drawing festival. Climb aboard and design a boat fit to sail the seven seas. Winning designs will be selected and displayed on the museum’s social media pages.Visit www.bankofengland.co.uk

A Renaissance Family Business, The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN 11am-4pm. Work together as a family of artists in the Renaissance workshop to seek out and sample traditional techniques. Drop-in session. For more information visit www.nationalgallery.org.uk

“

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

”

Family Day: Halloween at Benjamin Franklin House

4-5pm. Children will meet Polly Hewson, daughter of Franklin’s landlady, to hear some ghoulishly good Halloween stories followed by gruesome games including Pumpkin Trick or Treat and Pin the Spider on the Web. Ages 5-11. For more information visit www. benjaminfranklinhouse.org

Tues 23 – Thurs 25 Oct Halloween Pond Dipping, RSPB Rainham Marshes, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ

10am-12noon. Enjoy pond-dipping and investigate what creatures you can find. Equipment is provided. Charges apply and booking is essential. For more details visit www. rspb.org.uk/PTRai

Tues 23 – Sat 27 Oct

Halloween Explorer Backpacks, Valence House Museum, Dagenham, RM8 3HT 10am-4pm. Explore Valence House Museum with Halloweenthemed backpacks filled with different fun activities. Suitable for children under 8. Free.Visit www. valencehousecollections.co.uk

Tues 23 Oct

Wed 24 Oct

(Also 26 Oct) 10am-12.15pm. This show will unravel the fascinating function of the digestive tract, why ‘we are what we eat’, what happens to the guts of patients with bowel diseases, and what makes the perfect poo. Ages 7-14. Charges apply. For more details visit www. centreofthecell.org

11am-12noon. Get stuck in to this exciting class as you create your very own Halloween mask and some not so scary, but very cute pom pom spiders. Ages 4-8. Charges apply and pre-booking is essential. For more details visit www.valentinesmansion. com

Gut Feeling, Centre of the Cell, Whitechapel, E1 2AT

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 12

Autumn Adve

Spooky Masks and Pom Pom Spiders, Valentines Mansion, Ilford, IG1 4XA

Epping Ongar Railway’s Steam and Scream

The Epping Ongar Railway will be running its popular Ghost Train from North ‘Weird’ Station to and from Ongar this Halloween. For three days it will be taken over by ghouls, zombies and other frightening creatures who are inviting you for a ride… if you dare. The Halloween Specials, run by staff and volunteers, are a regular feature at the Railway but this thrilling experience will be one to remember. Buses will be available to pick you up outside of Epping Tube station and whisk you away to North Weird station. It is there that you’ll find magic shows, a silent disco, a bar, Halloween games and even an exciting EOR2320-Halloween2018-94x136mm-V2-001.pdf 1 11/09/2018

EPPING ONGAR RAILWAY

DARE YOU RIDE THE GHOST TRAIN TO OUR ‘NORTH WEIRD’ STATION WHERE SPOOKY GOINGS ON AND HALLOWEEN FUN WILL BE FOUND?

For details of all our Halloween Services check our website eorailway.co.uk/events/halloween

TICKET

8 Oct - 25 Nov 2018

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

PRICES

S £13/15 ADULT £10/12 EN CHILDR

Create and Play Mornings, Queens Theatre, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT (Also 25 Oct) 10am-12noon. Children will enjoy two jam-packed hours of creative themed fun involving drama games, storytelling and craft activities. Ages 4-6. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www.queens-theatre.co.uk

10:51

26, 27, 28 October

eorailway.co.uk 01277 365200

Epping Ongar Railway

@eorailway

Fun Days Out with the Family ghost hunt.You can also start your terrific adventure at Ongar - don’t forget to visit the gruesome graveyard there, who knows what is lurking beneath the shadows? With even more spooky fun, such as face painting, food and a visit from the Owls from Epping Forest Hawk and Owl Sanctuary, there is fun for everyone this Halloween. The trains are running on 26, 27 and 28 October. Adult fares are £13£15 and children £10-£12. For more information and to book tickets visit www.eorailway.co.uk/events/halloween

Breathtaking Wand Installation

New Wizarding World adventure, Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald, is due in cinemas next month. To celebrate, an installation of nine giant wands will illuminate the walkway between Millennium Bridge and St. Paul’s Cathedral in London to raise awareness for J.K. Rowling’s charity Lumos, whose mission is to end the institutionalisation of children around the world.

The installation also kicks off a series of exciting activities for fans every “Wizarding Wednesday,” including wand training and a live performance of music from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films by a military marching band. Further information is available at www.fantasticbeasts.co.uk/ wandsready

Halloween at Liberty Shopping

Visit The Liberty Shopping Centre in Romford for a host of free spooktacular half term activities for your little devils to enjoy. Just in time for Halloween, between Monday 22 and Sunday 28 October, visit the shopping centre for creepy art and craft workshops for children of all ages to enjoy.

Autumn Adventures

entures

Standing fifteen feet tall, the wands – bringing to life those belonging to characters in the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films – are the centrepiece of the new installation. It is set to light up Peter’s Hill every night at 6.45pm from 18 October to 12 November.

During the week, between 11am and 4pm, you can make your way to the shopping centre’s very own ‘Halloween Grotto’ and let the kids enjoy scary decoration and mask making which can be taken home and used come Halloween night on 31 October. What’s more, during the half term week little monsters can embark on a treasure hunt around the shopping centre, by taking part in a terrific trick or treat hunt. Simply head to the centre’s Halloween Grotto to get started and be in with the chance of winning terrifying treats! For more information, visit www.theliberty.co.uk.

Halloween Fun at The Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford Monday 22nd – Sunday 28th October 11am – 4pm

Art & Craft Workshops

Make Spooky Decorations & Masks

Treasure Hunt

Have some terrific Trick or Treat Fun! See Customer Service Desk or website for more information.

theliberty.co.uk Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

8 Oct - 25 Nov 2018

Autumn Adventures

Creating Wonderful Memories

Remember the time when you fearlessly charged into that cold sea? Or when you built your very first sandcastle? Moments like that are the ones you remember. That’s why this autumn c2c are encouraging all their family customers to visit Southendon-Sea, especially now with amazing 2for1 deals on top local attractions when you travel by train. Not only that, but kids travel to Southend for just £2 (terms and conditions apply) and an adult will receive 25% off their ticket when using a Family Travelcard. It’s available for anytime travel on weekends and also off-peak weekdays, giving you even more reason to experience your autumn the way you want to with lots of possibilities. When you travel with c2c, you’ll also be able to get your hands on a trainload of other great 2for1 deals on over 150 other incredible top attractions and days out in London and Essex. So let your little ones enjoy the last of the best beach days at one of Essex’s top family destinations. Make moments you’ll remember forever when you travel with c2c.

Anyone for Tennis?

A smashing time is guaranteed at Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre, Stratford. If you’re looking for a fun activity for the kids to take part in, then tennis could be just the thing. With a range of courses led by friendly qualified coaches they’ll be swinging that racquet with confidence in no time at all.

SATURDAY 1ST & SUNDAY 2ND DECEMBER FREE ENTRY

Sessions are suitable for children aged 3 upwards and will help improve their balance, co-ordination and tennis skills as well as making new friends. Depending on what course you choose, either pay and play or eight week course blocks are available. Whatever you choose they’re guaranteed to have fun. If you’d just like to hire a tennis court, prices start from £6 for outdoor and £15 for indoor. Find out more about courses and court hire at www.visitleevalley.org.uk/hockeytennis or call 03000 060 614.

Halloween at RSPB Reserves

Across the UK, RSPB reserves are going wild for Halloween. Join them at RSPB Rainham Marshes and discover creepy crawlies, small and scaries, and things that go bump in the night. Halloween is nearly here, and whilst much of the RSPB’s wonderful wildlife is hunkering down and hibernating, in the depths of the mystical marshes there remain many beasties to see. Join the reserve for ‘Wild Things at Halloween’ and wear fear-inspiring fancy dress and your weirdest wellies as you follow the spooky trail onto the reserve, open from Saturday 20 Sunday 28 October. The RSPB will also be running spooky ‘Halloween pond dipping’ during half term

GREENWICH PENINSULA 11AM—7PM

Kid’s tennis classes

Come and try for free !

at Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre Improve their tennis skills and co-ordination at our coach led sessions. Find out more visitleevalley.org.uk/ hockeytennis

INDEPENDENT DESIGNERS, MAKERS, ARTISANS, MUSIC & STREET FOOD GREENWICHPENINSULA.CO.UK/SAMPLE #SAMPLECHRISTMAS y db ge na Ma

Vibrant Partnerships is a trading name of Lee Valley Leisure Trust Limited, a charitable registered society (no: 32275R)

8 Oct - 25 Nov 2018

For a darker adventure, don’t miss the special torch lit walk for mini monsters and families (for children under 12 years old) - discover nocturnal life, creepy crawlies, and get gooey. Running on 31 October from 6-7pm, it costs £3 per child and £5 per adult, plus reserve entry fee. For more information, please visit www.rspb.org.uk/PTRai or call 01708 899 851 to book.

Autumn Adventures

on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 10.30am-12noon. Priced at £1.50 per child, accompanying adults go free, plus the reserve entry fee. Booking is strongly advised.

Discover the World of Work with our new London Curriculum Family Explorer Trails.

London Curriculum Trails

The Mayor’s London Curriculum Team is launching a series of World of Work trails for schools and families this autumn in time for October Half Term. The aim is to inspire children to start thinking about careers in London and what’s on offer in this brilliant city. The trails cover five different areas of London – Southwark, Brixton, Covent Garden, Old Street and Stratford. Each trail has a different theme and includes all kinds of activities and information about types of work that children might do when they’re older. Children will learn about jobs from the past, discover the work people do today and imagine what work might be like in the future. The London Curriculum is a fun new way of teaching young people about our city using London as a classroom. Schools in London are already enjoying the Mayor’s free primary and secondary teaching resources. Now with these trails, parents and carers can also join in. Find out more at www.london.gov.uk/world-of-work

Download the trails and find out more: london.gov.uk/world-of-work-trails

HALF TERM FUN

FRIDAY 26TH OCTOBER 10 AM - 4 PM £3.00 PER CHILD TRICK OR TREAT HUNT ROMFORD SHOPPING HALL 43 MARKET PLACE, ROMFORD, RM1 3AB

£1.00 per child will be donated to

s g n i h t Wild

at Halloween at RSPB Rainham Marshes!

Torch-lit walk for mini monsters! Discover nocturnal life, creepy crawlies and get gooey on 31 October, 6–7pm! Booking required.

Halloween pond dipping

FANCY DRESS OPTIONAL YOU CAN MEET OUR ANIMATRONIC FRIENDS! MAPS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE FRONT OF THE BUILDING ON THE DAY www.romfordshoppinghall.com

Join us for pond dipping from Tuesday 23 to Thursday 25 October, 10.30am–12 noon, to delve into our ponds and discover the hidden life beneath! Booking advised.

RSPB Rainham Marshes, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ Tel: 01708 899851

rspb.org.uk/PTRai Images: bat by CreativeNature_nl (istockphoto.com). The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is a registered charity: England and Wales no. 207076, Scotland no. SC037654. All rights reserved. RSPB licence 100021787. 860-0665-18-19

8 Oct - 25 Nov 2018

Education News

Education News Making Connections

When staff are teaching History at Woodford Green Preparatory, their aim is to make the connections from a child’s individual knowledge and experience with the events and lives of others in the past. The field of History is not just about ploughing through endless written texts. It is about seeking evidence, making interpretations and forming questions from a plethora of resources such as artefacts, artworks, architecture, music, poetry and maps. One of the most insightful resources is the narrative of family, neighbours and friends.

Interpreting what is being communicated supports the development of critical thought. This skill is essential in the society overloaded with information, in which pupils now live. Is ‘fake news’ only a modern phenomenon? History is so much more than an endless list of significant dates to be memorised - a task that is so arduous when there is little understanding of the context. Woodford Green Preparatory School is currently working on an art installation around Remembrance 2018, using the poppy as the central theme and their recycled old style uniform as the main medium. The subject of war is never easy to discuss. However, through the design and generation of meaningful art, an opportunity is presented to facilitate thought on the challenging themes of sacrifice, heroism, obedience and loss. Discussions motivated some pupils to produce independent writing for the British Legion’s Thank You campaign, and Year 6 produced an evocative canvas around their study of the poem In Flanders Field. The Remembrance project is on display in School and can be viewed at Woodford Green’s Open Afternoon Talk and Tour on Friday 9 November. For more information, please visit www.wgprep.co.uk.

Wapping High School

Wapping High School is proud to play a key role in the richly diverse community of Tower Hamlets. The school was set up in 2012 with the mission of ensuring that their students are creative, confident and determined in pursuing and achieving their individual goals. The school achieved an Ofsted Good rating in June 2018 acknowledging their ongoing commitment to enabling students to achieve success in all aspects of their school life and beyond. The school is committed to providing every student with the greater academic and pastoral attention that this allows. Equally, low class sizes ensure more dedicated teaching time per student, meaning that no-one can slip through the system. Wapping High School achieved fantastic GCSE Results again this year. 82% of students achieved a Grade 4+ and 67% of students achieved a Grade 5 + in GCSE English which is a fabulous performance and

OPEN AFTERNOON TALK & TOUR Friday 9th November 2018 1.30pm - 3pm Assisted Places available from 7+ Please register interest at

www.wgprep.co.uk Alumni registration is now available via our website

Nurture

Curiosity

WOODFORD GREEN PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Excellence

Independent Co-educational Day School For 3 - 11 Years

www.wgprep.co.uk Tel: 0208 504 5045 Email: admissions@wgprep.co.uk Glengall Road - Woodford Green - Essex - IG8 0BZ

EST 1932 16

Creativity

8 Oct - 25 Nov 2018

admissions@wappinghigh.org or call

020 3319 4321 An 11-16 school passionate about providing a world-class education for the young people of Tower Hamlets.

Education News

significantly ahead of the National Average. They are proud to report that 11% of students achieved at least one grade 9, the highest possible score in this summer’s GCSEs. The percentage of Grade 9s achieved was significantly above National Average in both Mathematics and Science. Contact them for a school tour via email admissions@wappinghigh.org or call 020 3319 4321.

Expert 11+ tuition in Maths, English,VR, NVR for Grammar and Independent School with individual training programmes created to enhance child’s ability. Violin classes to intermediate level specialising in ABRSM/ Trinity exams and 11+ Music Scholarships. Visit us at www.tutorcamp.co.uk or call on 07960 786735 for a free consultation You won’t be disappointed !

Wapping High School, 153 - 157 Commercial Road, London, E1 2DA 020 3597 3670 • www.wappinghigh.org • enquiries@wappinghigh.org @wappinghigh wappinghigh

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

Chigwell Chingford Clayhall Higham Hill Ilford, Seven Kings Stratford Wanstead

012 020 020 019 020 017 020

7950 8501 8270 9262 8598 0837 8491

6148 0297 3507 3221 8855 5345 8261 kumon.co.uk

Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.

8 Oct - 25 Nov 2018

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for October and November

October Alive with History, Valence House Museum, Dagenham, RM8 3HT 11am-4pm. Meet some of Valence House’s long-dead residents. Lots of ghoulish and disgusting activities will keep the family entertained all day. Free.Visit www. valencehousecollections.co.uk

The Secret Life of John Wesley, John Wesley’s House, EC1Y 1AU 11am-3pm. Enjoy this interactive family event. Come and chat with John Wesley about his life, help the Housekeeper with her chores and taste some of the wonderful 18th century treats being made in our kitchen by the Cook. For more information visit www. wesleysheritage.org.uk

Wed 24 – Thurs 25 Oct Halloween, Ragged School Museum, Mile End, E3 4RR

10am-5pm. Delve into family activities inspired by Halloween… Victorian style! Come over and concoct magical potions, go ghost hunting and solve a mystery, all with a Victorian twist. Ages 0-12. For more details www.raggedschoolmuseum. org.uk

Muscling In, Centre of the Cell, Whitechapel, E1 2AT 10am-12.15pm. Discover how your muscles, bones and joints work together to help us move and find out how many bones there are in the human skeleton. Ages 7-12. Charges apply. For more information visit www.centreofthecell.org

Thurs 25 Oct

Birds of Prey Evening, Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering-atte-Bower, RM4 1QH 6-8pm. Enjoy a fun and informative evening. Learn about a number of Birds of Prey and see them up close and in flight. Photography allowed. Ages 7+. Charges apply. For more information visit www.essexwt.org. uk/reserves/bedfords-park

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 18

“

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

”

Teenie Halloweenie: Spooky Craft Camp for Kids, Stepney City Farm, E1 3DG 10.45am-1pm. Make home crafts and Halloween decorations, enjoy monster mash music and take part in a fancy dress competition. For information visit www. stepneycityfarm.org

Kids Kitchen, Spitalfields City Farm, E1 5AR 11am-1pm. Take part in a free cooking session at the farm for children and carers. Harvest fresh produce from our gardens, cook together and then enjoy what you have made for lunch! For more information visit www. spitalfieldscityfarm.org and to book call 020 7247 8762

Fri 26 Oct

Trick or Treat Hunt, Romford Shopping Hall, RM1 3AB

After Schoo ZAP Camp

ZAPspace’s October Half Term Camp in Stratford is the perfect place for 5-12 year olds to shake it off, make new friends and channel all that boundless energy into big bouncy fun. ZAP Camp will keep your kids active enjoying ball sports and trampolining no matter the weather. It’s not all bouncing around though. Children will stretch their imaginations and creative muscles with a varied programme of arts and crafts. Activities over the week will include a scavenger hunt, monster mask making, origami animals, science experiments, clay modelling, bird house making, autumn collage making and more. All activities are run by professional and trained trampoline staff. Running daily from 8am-4pm from Monday 22 October – Friday 26 October, ZAP Camp offers busy parents a great Half Term childcare solution. Book your children for a day or a full week

10am-4pm. Join in the spooky fun as you find treats all around the shopping hall. Maps will be available on the day. Fancy dress is optional. Charges apply. For more information email info@romfordshoppinghall.com

Small Creature Sketching with ZooLab, The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN 10.30-11.15am and 11.30am12.15pm. Creepy-crawlies come out of the paintings and onto the page. Hear from ZooLab experts and get up-close to sketch from real animals, bugs, and insects. Ages 5-11. Charges apply. For more information visit www.nationalgallery.org.uk

Pumpkin Carving, Rainham Hall, Havering, RM13 9YN (Also 27 and 28 Oct) 11am-2pm. Pick up a pumpkin, scoop out all the gooey insides and carve your own spooky Halloween design. Ages 5-16. Half-hourly slots. Charges apply and booking is essential. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/rainham-hall

Spooky Walks: The Ring Quest, Thames Chase Forest Centre, Upminster, RM14 3NS5 5.10-10pm. Are you brave enough to step into the night and take a spinetingling spooky walk? Plus

8 Oct - 25 Nov 2018

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 20... Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

ol Activities and watch their faces light up when you tell them where they’re going this Half Term. Fees are flexible, with daily and weekly rates available. Packed lunches are available on request and sibling discounts can apply. For more information, please visit www. zapspace.co.uk or email bookings@zapspace.co.uk.

Train Like A Jedi

Public Health England (PHE) and Disney UK are launching a brand new national Change4Life Train Like A Jedi programme which will inspire children to get active. The new programme uses the excitement of Star WarsTM and its characters alongside Double Olympic Gold medallist Jade Jones to encourage children to Train Like A Jedi, and is designed to increase levels of physical activity amongst children in England. It is recommended that children do at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day, yet just 23% of boys and 20% of girls aged 5 to 15 years currently meet this recommendation. A new survey from PHE and Disney found that over 4 in 5 children (82%) would be inspired to move more if they saw their favourite characters being active. With Star Wars characters ranking as key favourites amongst UK children aged 7-11, the programme aims to make physical activity more fun.

Building a new generation of Resistance recruits, Jones, alongside a special appearance from BB-8, leads children through a series of Jedi inspired moves in an exciting new play along video. Taking inspiration from the traits of iconic Jedi such as Luke Skywalker and Rey, the video helps children learn and master six key skills – technique, strength, stamina, speed, agility and mastery. The sequence of moves has been specially designed to increase children’s heart rates and benefit health. For more resources and to view the video, please visit www.campaignresources.phe.gov.uk.

Stubbers Adventure Centre

Your child can enjoy real adventure this Half Term with activities ranging from rock climbing, sailing, archery, jet skiing to woodland construction and much more at Stubbers Adventure Centre. October SMASH Camps will run from 22-26 October. They are the perfect opportunity for your children to begin their adventure! Prices start from £39 per day or book a full week and pay only £1 for the 5th day. For some Halloween fun sign up to Stubbers Zombie Damnation Laser Tag battle. The world has become dominated by zombies and the remaining survivors fight amongst themselves to gain control of the safe zones. You and your team must battle against other humans to regain control, but watch out the zombies are hungry and brains are on the menu! Will you survive Zombie Damnation? Zombie Damnation runs between 29 and 31 October for £12 per child (ages 9-14 years old). Time slots are 5.45pm, 6.45pm and 7.45pm. Each battle lasts approximately 45 minutes. SMASH Camps and Zombie Damnation are hosted at Stubbers Adventure Centre in Upminster within easy reach from the M25, A12 and just 24 mins on the train from London. Stubbers is based in 130 acres of picturesque outdoor space. Discover your adventure and book today at www.SmashCamps.co.uk.

MAKING EVERYDAY A SPOOKY ADVENTURE Child C Vouc are hers Acce pted

NEW - ZOMBIE DAMNATION LASER TAG BATTLE 29TH, 30TH & 31ST OCTOBER £12 (ADVANCE BOOKING ONLY) WHAT’S ON OFFER THIS OCTOBER HALF TERM

MULTI- ACTIVITY PASS

COMMANDO WEEK

SPECIALIST DAYS

ZOMBIE DAMNATION

CALL US 01708 224 753 BOOK ONLINE WWW.SMASHCAMPS.CO.UK FIND US STUBBERS ADVENTURE CENTRE, OCKENDON ROAD, UPMINSTER, ESSEX Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

8 Oct - 25 Nov 2018

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for October and November

October making lanterns, designing masks and a magician! (Walks depart every 10 mins) Charges apply. For more information visit www.thameschase. org.uk

Autumn Art Attack, Valence House Museum, Dagenham, RM8 3HT 11am-12.30pm and 1.30-3pm. Create something colourful to take home in this autumn arts and crafts activity. Charges apply.Visit www. valencehousecollections.co.uk

Fri 26 – Sun 28 Oct

Steam and Scream Epping Ongar Railway, Essex, CM5 9BN Dare you ride the Ghost Train to North Weird? At North Weird you’ll find all sorts of fun and spooky things to do. There will be a ghost hunt, magic shows, silent disco, face painting and much more. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www.eorailway.co.uk

Sat 27 Oct

Bow Beasties Wildlife Club, Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, E3 4PX 10.30am-12.30pm. Experience the magic of woodlands and wildlife with seasonal, outdoor, nature activities and games for children and families. Today’s theme is pumpkin carving (BYO pumpkin). Ages 3-12. Meet at the Soanes Centre. For more information visit www.fothcp.org

Community Pumpkin Carving Competition, Mudchute Farm, E14 3HP

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Join us for our annual community pumpkin carving competition. Bring your own pumpkin or pick one up on the day! For more information visit www.mudchute.org

entertainment and lots of fun for kids. For more information visit www.london.gov.uk

Frankenstein’s Laboratory, Valence House Museum, Dagenham, RM8 3HT

Family Saturdays, The Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace, SW1W 1QH

11am-12.30pm and 1.30-3pm. Celebrate Frankenstein’s 200th anniversary with monstrous Halloween decoration making. Charges apply.Visit www. valencehousecollections.co.uk

Africa on the Square, Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN 12noon–6pm. This popular event celebrates African arts and culture as well as enhancing Black History Month. Enjoy live entertainment, an African market, food stalls, roaming

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

What to Do with Pumpkin Seeds You’ve just finished carving your pumpkin this Halloween and it’s a masterpiece, the flesh has been removed so that you can illuminate the inside… but what about the leftover seeds? The seeds removed from the pumpkin can be made into a tasty snack that everyone will want to eat. Firstly, rinse the seeds and pull away the strings of flesh. Then the seeds can be roasted by scattering them across a baking tray and adding a pinch of salt. Toss them in olive oil and roast at 180°C/350°F/ gas 4 for approximately 10 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown. After that allow them to cool and store them in a container.You will then have a delicious treat that is ideal for adding to salads and sprinkling on soup. Another fun way to use the seeds is to dry them and sprinkle them across your garden - a scrumptious Halloween snack for the birds to enjoy. But don’t add salt this time. It’s not good for them! 20

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

8 Oct - 25 Nov 2018

(Also 24 Nov) 11am-3pm. Enjoy a day of arts and crafts exploring the lives of the royal horses and the history of the Royal Mews. Charges apply. For more information visit www. royalcollection.org.uk

Sun 28 Oct

Pumpkin Fest, Haven House, Children’s Hospice, Woodford Green, IG8 9LB At 11am there will be a Chasing Pumpkins 10k Run for ages 16+ and the afternoon will see the return of the ever popular Pumpkin Plod 5k or 2k family walk at 2.30pm. There will also be live music, lots of Halloween fun, a BBQ 12noon2.30pm and more. To sign up visit www.havenhouse.org.uk

Everyone a Maker - Play Up! Rich Mix, E1 6LA 11am. Play Up! wants you to misbehave, have fun and do it your way. Families are invited to personalise familiar games in an allout drawing rebellion. This workshop is part of the international ‘The Big Draw’ - the world’s biggest drawing festival. Charges apply.Visit www. richmix.org.uk

Gilwell Park Fireworks, Chingford, E4 7QW 4pm. Enjoy a spectacular fireworks and laser display with music and visual effects. There will be a range of adventurous activities from rock climbing to high ropes and dodgems. The fireworks display will start at 7pm. Charges apply. For more details visit www.gilwellfireworks.org.uk

Diwali Festival, Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN 1pm–6pm. Celebrate the Hindu, Sikh and Jain festival of lights. Enjoy exciting music, a dance stage line up, complimented by the authentic aromas from the street food market. Wander through the embellishing craft and community stalls. For more information visit www.london.gov.uk

Mon 29 – Wed 31 Oct

Zombie Damnation Halloween Laser Tag Battle! Stubbers Adventure Centre, Upminster, RM14 2TY 5.45pm, 6.45pm and 7.45pm. The world has become dominated by zombies and the remaining survivors fight amongst themselves to gain

control of the safe zones.You and your team must battle against other humans to regain control. Ages 9-14. Charges apply.Visit www. smashcamps.co.uk

Wed 31 Oct

Torch-lit Walk for Mini Monsters, RSPB Rainham Marshes, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ 6-7pm. Wear fear-inspiring fancy dress and your weirdest wellies to brave the torch lit walk into the woodland for mini monsters and families. Discover nocturnal life and creepy crawlies followed by hot chocolate and cookies back at base. Charges apply. For more details visit www.rspb.org.uk/PTRai

November Fri 2 Nov

Little Foals, The Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace, SW1W 1QH 12noon-2pm. Under 5s and their carers are invited to a special story around the Royal Mews all about the horses and the carriages, followed by an arts and crafts activity. Charges apply. For more information visit www.royalcollection.org.uk

Sat 3 Nov

Supersonic Science Workshops, Queens Theatre, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT 11am, 1pm and 3pm. Enjoy hands-on experimenting in these interactive demonstrations, where you’ll have tons of fun testing rockets, making lava lamps, eating bubbles, making slime, riding an indoor hovercraft and more. Ages 7+. Charges apply. To book visit www.queens-theatre.co.uk

Sat 3 – Sun 4 Nov

Guy Fawkes Festival and Fireworks, Royal Gunpowder Mills, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1JX The Royal Gunpowder Mills brings its 2018 season to an end with a bang with its annual spectacular Guy Fawkes Festival and Fireworks, over a weekend packed with fun activities for all. Charges apply. For more details visit www. royalgunpowdermills.com

Sat 10 Nov

Lord Mayor’s Show, Bank of England Museum, EC2R 8AH 11am-5pm. The 803rd Lord Mayor’s Show is the perfect opportunity for a weekend visit with the family. Skilful face painters will transform younger visitors into one of the much-loved characters from Kenneth Grahame’s book ‘The Wind in the Willows’. For more information visit www. bankofengland.co.uk

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

Design the Primary Times Christmas Card!

Win a Grinch Goody Bag

Every year, we at Primary Times send out thousands of Christmas cards and we’d like you to help us create the picture for this year’s card. It can be any picture you like to do with Christmas in some way.You might like to make it Father Christmas, a snowman, Rudolf with his red nose or maybe a nativity scene.You can draw or paint your picture on an A4 or A5 piece of card or paper. Our picture shows our card from last year which was designed for us by Oliver Carpenter from St Joseph’s Primary School. See the bottom of this page for details of how to enter but please note that the closing date for this competition is

Competitions

Competitions The Grinch, based on Dr Seuss’ beloved holiday classic, tells the story of a cynical grump who goes on a mission to steal Christmas, only to have his heart changed by a young girl’s generous holiday spirit. Each year at Christmas the Grinch’s neighbours in Who-ville disrupt his tranquil solitude with their increasingly bigger, brighter and louder celebrations. When the Whos declare they are going to make Christmas three times bigger this year, the Grinch realises there is only one way for him to gain some peace and quiet. He must steal Christmas! However, as Christmas approaches, Cindy-Lou’s goodnatured schemes threaten to collide with the Grinch’s more nefarious ones. Funny, heart-warming and visually stunning, it’s a universal story about the spirit of Christmas and the indomitable power of optimism. The Grinch will be released in cinemas on 9 November. Primary Times has five The Grinch goody bags to give away. To be in with a chance of winning one, tell us what colour the Grinch is? For details of how to enter see below.

Friday 2 November. Teachers and schools are very welcome to send in a whole class’s entries in a single envelope.The winner will see their design used for the Primary Times Christmas card and will also receive fifty copies of the card with envelopes.

Win a Mini Break at Leeds Castle This autumn Primary Times has an exciting prize to give away to a lucky family - An annual pass for two adults and two children to Leeds Castle, plus an overnight stay in the grounds of Leeds Castle at the Stable Courtyard B&B and dinner in the Castle View restaurant for up to £150. There will also be runner up prizes of five more family annual passes for two adults and two children. There’s plenty going on this October Half Term at Leeds Castle. Help Monster Hunter Valerie Van Helsing on a quest to investigate ‘The Case of the Halloween Monster’, but watch out for Halloween bandits along the way! Look out for characters such as Vinnie the Vampire and Frank Frankenstein on the trail and collect your chocolate reward at the end. There’s also a fun new haunted trail for younger visitors through the Woodland Walk, a ‘Monster Mash Ball’ and daily fancy dress competitions with prizes for the best costumes. If you’re brave enough, visit Leeds Castle this half term for ghoulish games and frightening fun for all ages.

Leeds Castle is perfect for a family day out and the annual pass means you can visit the Castle all year round, not just in the autumn. To be in with a chance of winning this fabulous prize, all you need to do is complete the word search. Then fill out the form with your details and send them both to Leeds Castle 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 ‘Leeds Castle Competition’ as the subject, by Friday 9 November.

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Find the following words Vampire, Frank, Vinnie, Leeds, Castle, October, Webs, Boo, Scary, Trail Name...................................................................... Age.......................................................................... Address................................................................... ................................................................................ ................................................................................ School......................................................................

To enter any of the competitions send your answer along with your name, age, school, address and phone number to Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London, SE12 8LG. Don’t forget to include the name of the competition. Alternatively email your answer and details to competitions@primarytimes.biz with the competion name as the subject by Friday 9 November. If you are entering more than one competition you can put all entries in the same envelope. Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

8 Oct - 25 Nov 2018

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for October and November

November Lord Mayor’s Show: Big Day Out, Various Locations, Central London See the new Lord Mayor of the City of London take to the streets in a glittering coach as part of a three-mile long ceremony full of innovation, spectacle and pageantry. For more information and to view the days itinerary visit www. lordmayorsshow.london

in this creative workshop. For more information visit www.royalacademy. org.uk

Papalarny the Magic Man, Queens Theatre, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT 11.30am. Papalarny, the incredibly popular children’s entertainer as seen on Channel 4 will be creating mind-blowing balloon models and performing his hilarious family magic show.You’ll go home with a creation of your own! Charges apply. For more details visit www.queenstheatre.co.uk

Family Studio: Metropolis Makers, Royal Academy of Arts, W1S 3ET 11am-3pm. Design your own skyline in a screen-printing activity inspired by the architecture of Renzo Piano

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

A Cat’s Guide to the Night Sky A Cat’s Guide to the Night Sky, by Stuart Atkinson, and recently published by Laurence King, is an introduction to stargazing and astronomy for children aged 7 to 11. This book will help children to find out how they can become a stargazer and the basics of identifying stars and planets. In the company of Felicity the cat (the first cat to go to space), children can discover the phases of the moon, the constellations and how to spot phenomena like the Northern Lights and the Milky Way. With stunning illustrations by Brendan Kearney and Felicity’s advice children can explore the wonders of the universe in an exciting and vibrant way that will keep them wanting to find out more whilst also gaining scientific knowledge. This fascinating and beautiful book educates children in a fun way that is easy to follow and is a joy to read, helping them to learn more about the wider world they live in. Felicity explains why stars are brighter in the countryside than the city, what shooting stars actually are and even how the moon was made. There is something in this book for everyone, whether they are looking up at the night sky from their bedroom window or setting out on the ultimate stargazing adventure. Children and parents will see the stars like they’ve never seen them before in this new and spectacular book. Recommended price £14.99 at www.laurenceking.com and other bookshops. 8 Oct - 25 Nov 2018

Thurs 29 Nov

Marvel’s Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N, ExCeL London, Royal Victoria Dock, E16 1XL This world-class immersive, multiroom experience offers fans of all ages the opportunity to delve into the super-workings and back-story of each of The Avengers. For more information and to book visit www. avengersstation.co.uk

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Sat 17 Nov

Sun 11 Nov

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

Bow Beasties Wildlife Club, Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, E3 4PX

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

Jazz for Toddlers, Stratford Circus Arts Centre, E15 1BX A playful introduction to jazz, with live music, movement and games children can enjoy with their grownups. Ages 2-5. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www. stratford-circus.com

Sailors and Starlight Family Rave, Museum of London Docklands, E14 4AL Everyone from the smallest swashbuckler to the biggest buccaneer will enjoy this celestial celebration as they party to club dance tunes. Arts and crafts available. Fancy dress is encouraged. Charges apply. To book visit www. museumoflondon.org.uk/museumlondon-docklands

Thurs 22 Nov – Tues 1 Jan

Christmas at ZSL London Zoo, NW1 4RY Get ready for stunning seasonal sparkle as Christmas comes to ZSL London Zoo. Discover the historic site and iconic buildings as a one-mile illuminated pathway winds its way through the Zoo in a magical afterdark experience. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www.zsl.org

Sat 24 Nov

Magical Beast Making, Valence House Museum, Dagenham, RM8 3HT 11am-12.30pm and 1.30-3pm. Get ready for a Harry Potterthemed Christmas and make some magical beast decorations. For more information visit www. valencehousecollections.co.uk

Sun 25 Nov

Everyone a Maker - Everyone a Thinker, Rich Mix, E1 6LA 11am. Did you know that playing can help you think better? In this workshop for children and adults alike, there will be games to pique your curiosity and wonder about the world and our place within it. Charges apply. For more details visit www.richmix.org.uk

Sat 1 Dec

Finding Father Christmas, Lambourne End, Essex, RM4 1NB Come and get crafty in Father Christmas’ Workshop, help Mrs Christmas decorate the sweet treats in her kitchen, go on a sleigh ride and meet Father Christmas himself. Charges apply and booking is essential. For more information visit www.lambourne-end.org.uk

Harry Potter Family Quiz, Valence House Museum, Dagenham, RM8 3HT 2-4pm. Gather your friends and family for this Harry Potter quiz afternoon. Suitable for children over 8 and adults of all ages. Charges apply and booking is essential. For more information visit www. valencehousecollections.co.uk

Sun 2 Dec

Christmas Fair, Valentines Mansion, Ilford, IG1 4XA 10am-4pm. Find a fantastic collection of hand-picked stalls selling a variety of original and handmade crafts, including jewellery, homeware, soaps, candles, food, and much more. This is the perfect stop for some Christmas shopping to pick up a really unique gift.Visit www.valentinesmansion.com

Artists’ Open Studio, Valentines Mansion, Ilford, IG1 4XA 11am-4pm. Held in conjunction with the Christmas Fair, guests are invited to get creative and make their own fingerprint canvas Christmas tree decoration. This class is suitable for adults and children. Charges apply. For more details visit www. valentinesmansion.com Our next copy deadline is

9 November 2018. 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!

Lola Hands aged 9

Jan Olak aged 6 Miss Bishop from St Crispins competitions in our September Back to School issue. Congratulations to the following people who won DIY Circus Lab for Kids shirt. and Tyler Eaton won a signed Crystal Palace Infants School won a box of books for her school. Riley Cignitti.Zara Edwin won o Matte and n Dryde Norrington,Joseph books were won by Bethan Lewis, Otto Retallick, Caitlin a Harlequin's match to s ticket won aser ey-Cre Freakl re. Chloe a family ticket to Robinson Crusoe at Greenwich Theat was Chloe Prockter. etition in the Mary & The Witch's Flower comp and will meet a rugby hero. Our first prize winner to see the Circus at ticket family a won Marshall. Alex Saunders Runners up prizes were won by Zoe Lewis and Jessica Eccleston, Nikki Wilkins Clarke eeya Zakar , Elmes Asia were rt winners Millbrook plus a mini hamper. Our Paddington in Conce aged 6 won the Annie Olak Bountiful Botanics Weekend at Wakehurst. Jan and Chloe April. Lisa Draghi won a family ticket to winner was Lola Hands aged 9. Enjoy If you would like to see drawing competition for the under 8s and our older our new competitions in this issue. all ng enteri luck good and all the artwork on this page your work displayed

here then just send us a drawing, poem, riddles, jokes or short story and we'll do our very best to include it. Send it to: Good Work Page Primary Times 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG Thank you to Isaiah Peart-Myers for his poem and drawing of his trip to feed the ducks, Karolina Ficek for her colourful garden scene and Annabel Whitby for her fun memories of the summer holidays. We love seeing your work so do please keep sending it to us.

atie lown’s K Leafy Landscapes

Nature Crossword 1 (across) bee 1 (down) butterfly 2 strawberry 3 fish 4 leaf 5 lizard 6 hive 7 flower 8 mushroom 9 (across) stone 9 (down) stump 10 ladybug 11 mouse 12 grass 13 cloud. Answer: NATURE Types of Leaves 1 Ash, 2 Magnolia, 3 Oak, 4 Maple, 5 Banana, 6 Beech

Word Search

Nature Crossword

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What is the cutest season? Awwtumn!

Can you find all these words in the word search? Plant, Leaf, Stalk, Deciduous, Vein, Stem, Chlorophyl, Green, Brown, Blade, Oak, Red, Foliage, Bulb, Frond, Root, Moss, Tree, Bud

What’s green and sings? Elvis Parsley!

Can you draw round an autumn leaf and make it into a picture or can you make a fun design based on leaves? 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

Why couldn’t the gardener find his pile of leaves? Because they all had to leaf!

How does an elephant get out of a tree? Sits on a leaf and waits until Autumn!

Identify the leaf 1

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 9 November 2018. Good Luck!