North West Kent Easter 2019 Primary Times by Alison Watson

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for families with primary aged children

in North & West Kent

COMING

SOON!

Easter Fun! in Maidstone

pril Sat 6th - Mon 22nd A Egg Hunt, er st Ea e, tl as C cy n u o B orkshop, African Drumming W ller Disco, o R ily m Fa , g n ti n ai P Face nge venture e l l a h C a Mr Muddles, Polar Ad u q A es id Sl e Ic & y la P Soft ll details! See our website for fu

www.maidstoneleisure.com

The Best Family Guide to What’s On Easter/Spring Edition • Issue 116 • 25 March - 12 May 2019

Dear Readers

Here in the office we are getting egg-stremely egg-cited at the thought of all that chocolate coming our way. Primary Times in North & West Kent We’re hoping that it will be an egg-ceptional egg7 Southbrook Mews stravaganza..... No eggs-aggeration! London SE12 8LG Tel: 01622 522116 March - May is a busy period with lots happening. Don’t Email: office@primarytimes.biz forget Mother’s Day on Sunday 31 March. Home-made Website: www.primarytimes.co.uk presents/cards always go down well... Bad news for Twitter: @PT_Kent mothers this year though as the clocks go forward on Instagram: @primarytimesse 31 March so one hour less to celebrate. Then Publishing Editor: Peter Watson Easter Weekend is 19-22 April. As you can tell Sales: Gill Pearce, Catherine Dillon, our office love chocolate so that’s one we’ll be Lola Olowofela & Andrew Langridge getting egg-cited about. Looking up dates Listings: Dingile Kasote Production: Alison Watson we came across National Teachers’ Day Office Manager: Chris Blower on 7 May. It says “a day for honouring Administrators: Claire Wood & teachers and recognising the lasting Tina Love contributions they make to our lives.” Editorial Assistant: Dunya Simões Time to make your teacher feel special. Proof Reader: Catherine Draisey Social Media: Rachel Benson As usual we have lots of competitions to enter in this issue. Entries can be sent by post to the address Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in infant and primary schools throughout Medway and Kent. Its aims are to inform families to the left or they can be emailed to competitions@ and children of current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses and attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate primarytimes.biz but please always mention the 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 competition you are entering and include your 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 personal details so that we can send you your prize if interests of young children. The opinions expressed in either the editorial or advertisements within this publication are not necessarily those held by the you win one. 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 Have an egg-cellent (sorry!) holiday and we’ll be back 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 on 13 May. the listings we are sent. Please send them to listings@primarytimes.biz. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in Medway and Kent 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 North & West Kent is operated under franchise licence.

Contents

inside this issue.... What’s On.................................6 Family Theatre..........................8 Spring Adventures.................. 10 Out of School Activities................18 Education News.......................20 Competitions...........................25 All Your Own Work..................27 Katie Clown Puzzle Page.......32

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

Win £1000 of Canvas Holidays Vouchers Canvas Holidays have been arranging fantastic family holidays for British holidaymakers for over 55 years. They are part of the Vacanceselect Group which is number one in the outdoor camping market in Europe with over 900 sites. Canvas is a UK based company and offers a variety of accommodation including luxury mobile homes with hot tubs and roof decks and glamping in safari tents. They have sites in wonderful locations in France, Italy and Spain, with amazing waterparks, great beaches and fantastic things to see and do. Part of the fun of a Canvas Holiday is spending time S U M together with your nearest and dearest and so their Family Extra Club isn’t just for kids, it’s for all the family W Y G to enjoy. Everyone is welcome to go and try something I C A new and have fun together. The fun-packed family M E H activity programme, which is exclusive to Canvas M C M Holidays, boasts more than 60 activities for all ages. I F V These lively sessions are led by outdoor activity specialists In2action, who have been delivering the activity N U G programmes for Canvas for over ten years. G N I www.canvasholidays.co.uk

Primary Times has £1000 of Canvas Holidays vouchers to give away to one lucky reader. 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 Canvas Holidays 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 ‘Canvas Holidays Competition’ as the subject by Friday 26 April.

M S N D B I M P

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News

Peppa Pig on the Big Screen

Get a Smoke Detector Now!

Primary Times has launched a campaign urging the government to create a new law to make it a legal requirement to have a working smoke alarm on every floor of every house where a child sleeps. No parent would knowingly risk the life of their child, but too many don’t realise the importance of smoke alarms. According to government data, a third of all fires have no smoke detection present or working, which suggests a huge number of the 18 million family homes in the UK could be unprotected, leaving children at unnecessary risk. Primary Times wants to help raise the awareness of house fires and if we can change the law then it will send an important message about fire awareness. Many of us assume these things only happen to somebody else. If we knew the risks we were taking, we would have a working detector on every floor. We urge everyone to sign our petition because we know it will help save lives. You can find and sign the petition at www.petition.parliament.uk/ petitions/240811

The Dinosaur Department Store Feisty heroine Eliza Jane isn’t your average child. Some called her wilful, some called her wild. Instead of a fluffy bunny, Eliza Jane has her heart firmly set on a prehistoric pet. Join her and her family on a marvellous magical tour of their local dinosaur department store. From huge, stomping sauropods stretching their necks to a pair of loved-up Ankylosaurs called Maud and Frank, there are plenty of amazing dinosaurs for Eliza Jane to choose from. But this wild child is hatching a mischievous plan of her own. With the potential to inspire an interest in STEM fields such as palaeontology (the study of dinosaurs) or protecting species in the wild (conservation), this really wild, fun and adventurous picture book encourages further learning through an introduction to dinosaur names and characteristics. The final page features fun ‘selfies’ of the dinosaurs mentioned in the text and a pronunciation guide to help children learn how to say their names. Using witty rhyming text by author Lily Murray and the rich and vivid art of bestselling illustrator Richard Merritt, this roaring tale will appeal to adventurous children everywhere. The Dinosaur Department Store is available online and from all good high street retailers for £6.99. 4

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

Don’t miss your chance to see Peppa Pig on the big screen this spring when Peppa Pig: Festival of Fun comes to a cinema near you to mark the 15 year anniversary of the nation’s favourite little piggy. With all new stories, characters and lots of jumping in muddy puddles, catch Peppa Pig: Festival of Fun in cinemas nationwide from 5 April. The hour-long theatrical release gives preschool audiences a gentle introduction to the cinema, with 10 brand new and neverbefore-broadcast episodes featuring a two-part festival special. Little piggies can look forward to a whole hour of snorts and giggles with songs to sing along to and dances and movements to join in with, making it the perfect cinema outing for pre-schoolers and all the family to enjoy. Each of the 10 brandnew episodes will be connected with never-before-seen interactive entertainment, featuring little ones singing and playing along with their favourite on screen characters. Get excited for the upcoming festival season with the release of Peppa Pig: Festival of Fun and join Peppa and George in their brand new ‘oink-tastic’ adventures as they dance in the mud at a children’s festival, celebrate Grandpa Pig’s birthday at a restaurant for the first time, and take a trip to the cinema to see Super Potato’s big movie feature. For more information, please visit www.peppapigfestivaloffun.co.uk.

Do You Fancy Yourself as a Junior Journalist? Want to be the first person to get a glimpse of SEA LIFE Brighton’s brand new ocean experience before anyone else? Do you love learning about sea life? Are you aged 5–12? If so, SEA LIFE Brighton are searching for a Junior Journalist with the skills in front of the camera to interview a team of Marine Biologists. The winning Journalist will have the opportunity to ask the expert team their pressing questions, as well as have the chance to launch SEA LIFE’s new ocean experience to the public! Opening on 25 May SEA LIFE Brighton’s new ocean experience will be welcoming back much-loved Turtles Lulu and Gulliver along with the UK’s largest selection of Sharks and Rays! To enter simply send in a 200 word report on your favourite sea creature and why SEA LIFE should choose you as their Junior Journalist. They will narrow down the top 5 entries and invite them for an audition at SEA LIFE Brighton. The winner will get to do their very own news broadcast plus win a feeding experience, a SEA LIFE pass and a trip for their classmates! To enter send your entries to Junior Journalist Competition, SEA LIFE Brighton, Marine Parade, Brighton, BN2 1TB or email them to slcbrighton@merlinentertainments.biz. Closing date for entries is Monday 29 April.

On 13 April, children’s TV presenters Ben Cajee and Ryan Russell from CBeebies will open two fantastic new family attractions at Leeds Castle, as part of the 900th anniversary celebrations. The brand new Knights’ Stronghold Playground is a thrilling new adventure playground designed for full-on fun. Children will love letting off steam by navigating through a wooden replica of Leeds Castle with spiralling slides, fireman’s poles, giant cargo nets and zip wires. This fully accessible playground, designed for ages up to 14, will include a new shop and seating areas for parents to watch their children play in a safe and fun environment. Arrive early to be one of the first to explore the new attractions and have a selfie with Ben & Ryan. The fun doesn’t end there. This year families will be able to enjoy another new attraction as Leeds Castle will become one of the only heritage attractions in the country to open its very own adventure golf course. Adventure Golf is located near the Maze and for a small additional charge, offers a great value family activity, with games lasting around 40 minutes. For more information and prices please visit the website www.leeds-castle.com.

The Cadwaladr Quests A new children’s vocabulary novel has taken Amazon by storm. The Cadwaladr Quests: Tangled Time is a unique new adventure story that makes learning vocabulary for 11+, SATs and independent school entrance exams fun. Every page incorporates numerous child-friendly definitions in context along with synonyms and antonyms - a book with a built-in dictionary! Written by a Berkshire mother for her reluctant-reader son, the book has enjoyed weeks of Amazon #1 best-seller status in its category. Join Claire, Jack and Ben on their quest to protect a powerfully dangerous artefact and take the pain out of learning new vocabulary. As one Amazon review states, fabulous and fictitious in one! This is the must-have for anyone doing 11+, SATs or independent school entrance exams. It is available in paperback and Kindle (with interactive word definitions) from www.www.amazon.co.uk. For more information, visit www.slager.co.uk.

Top

Entertainers

For all your party needs for both children & adults

Music, Magic & Dancing

News

New Leeds Castle Attractions

07534 968290 www.topentertainers.biz If you had booked this space 48,000 families could be reading all about your business... Don’t delay, call Gill today

01622 522116

Take the Pain out of Learning Vocabulary! THE CADWALADR QUESTS: TANGLED TIME A unique, fun novel with child-friendly definitions in context on every page For 11+ SATs and Independent Entrance Exams Synonyms and antonyms included Buy from amazon.co.uk in paperback or Kindle

www.slager.co.uk

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

What’s On

Your family diary for March, April & May Ongoing

March

Daily

Tues 26 Mar

Exhibition: A History of Winston Churchill, Chartwell, Westerham, TN16 1PS 10am-4pm. Be one of the first visitors to see the new permanent exhibition. Featuring the fascinating collection of Churchill’s own cherished possessions, collected by him over the course of his lifetime. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ chartwell

Every Sat

LEGO® Club, Hoo Library, ME3 9AL 3-5pm. Go crazy with the world’s favourite blocks - build, play and have fun. For more details visit www. medway.gov.uk/events

Every Sat and Sun

Falconry Display, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL 2pm. Enjoy a free flying display in the Falconry Arena in front of the Maze. The display lasts about 30 to 40 minutes and features a range of birds including Hawks,Vulture, Falcon and Owls. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.leeds-castle. com

Until 27 Apr

Attic Tours, Knole, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP (Selected dates) 11.30am–12.15pm. On this tour of Knole’s oftenforgotten attic spaces, knowledgeable guides will reveal the stories behind centuries of graffiti, lost 17th century letters, witchmarks and a curiously sloped floor. Charges apply. To book visitwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/knole

Until 22 Jul

Storytime in Knole’s Bookshop, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP (Selected dates) 11-11.30am. Join the story time fun in Knole’s bookshop where your little ones can enjoy short stories and nursery rhymes. Suitable for under 5s. Free event. For more details visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/knole

Until 3 Nov

Mrs Wolfe’s Recipes, Quebec House, Westerham, TN16 1TD 1-4pm. Join the team as they recreate some of Mrs Wolfe’s eighteenth century recipes such as lemon drops, King or Queen cakes or macaroons. Tastings available. Children are welcome. Free event, admission applies. For more details visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/quebechouse

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

Mothers’ Day Themed Afternoon Tea, Beams, Hextable, BR8 7RJ 12noon-3pm. Enjoy a day hosted by the Master Baker Jane Lindsey from Hummingbirds. Expect a quiz, raffle and craft stall. Charges apply. For more details visit www.wearebeams. org.uk

Thurs 28 – Sat 30 Mar

Millbrook Mothers’ Day Workshop, Gravesend, DA13 9PA Make Mothers’ Day special this year by creating a beautiful primrose planter at this seasonal workshop. Charges apply. Also at Millbrook Staplehurst, TN12 9BT. For more details and to book visit www. millbrookgc.co.uk

Fri 29 Mar

Wear A Hat Day 2019, Nationwide Brain Tumour Research would like you to join the thousands of other children, parents and teachers across the country joining in to create entertaining and colourful hatthemed fundraising events. To register and get your free fundraising pack visit www.wearahatday.org

Sat 30 Mar

Earth Hour Ready, Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve and Jeffery Harrison Visitor Centre, TN13 3DH 10.30am-12noon, 1-2.30pm. Be ready for earth hour by making your own candles, building small windmills and producing seed bombs for wildlife. Ages 4+. Charges apply. For more details visit www.kentwildlifetrust. org.uk

Jumbo Dumbo Day, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH 10am-3pm. Go along and join in a family craft activity, making elephant ears and a trunk, then follow the elephant trail around the museum.

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

”

Charges apply. For more details visit museum.maidstone.gov.uk

Bewl’s Big Dog Day Out, Bewl Water Country Park, Lamberhurst, TN3 8JH

10am-4pm. A fun day out for all the family, especially your four-leggedfriend.You and your dogs will enjoy a full day of activities around the beautiful reservoir. The day includes a treasure trail, a dog agility course, lots of fun stalls and much more. Charges apply. For more details visit www.bewlwater.co.uk

Broadwood Square Piano Playing Live, Quebec House, Westerham, TN16 1TD (Also 4 May) 2-4pm. Immerse yourself in historic music played by a talented volunteer on an eighteenth century Broadwood square piano. Visitors with experience are also welcome to play. Free event, admission applies. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ quebechouse

Sat 30 – Sun 31 Mar

Mothers’ Day Weekend, Hever Castle, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Show your mum just how much you love her with a wonderful family day out on Mothers’ Day Weekend. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.hevercastle.co.uk

Sat 30 Mar – Sun 28 Apr Easter Bunny Hunt, Broadditch Farm Shop, Southfleet, DA13 9PU Purchase a worksheet from the Farm Shop and set off to the woods to find the lost bunnies. Once your worksheet is completed, return to the Farm Shop to claim your prize. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www.broadditch.co.uk

Sun 31 Mar

Walking with Goats Experience, Buttercups Sanctuary, Maidstone, ME17 4JW (Also 1, 2 Apr) 2pm. Take a goat out for a walk along the various footpaths around the sanctuary,

whilst the goats feast on the foliage – a fun experience for the whole family. Booking required. For more information visit www.buttercups. org.uk

Make Mum’s Day, Ightham Mote, Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT 11am-5pm. Children can pop into the Squire’s Room to make mum a present. Treat her to lunch or a cream tea in the café. Mums can also enjoy a touch of luxury with a hand massage in the shop. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ighthammote

Mothers’ Day, Kent & East Sussex Railway, Tenterden Town Station, TN30 6HE Treat Mum to a special day out. Enjoy a perfect day for the whole family, where everyone can enjoy the service and style from yesteryear - a time when attentive staff made our railways the envy of the world. Booking is essential.Visit www.kesr. org.uk

Mothers’ Day Special Lunch Event, The Hop Farm, Tonbridge, TN12 6PY 12noon-3pm. Show mum just how much she means by treating her to a delicious two course Sunday carvery at the historic Hop Farm. Take a stroll around the grounds, enjoy special family time and meet adorable animals in the farm. Charges apply, booking is essential.Visit www. thehopfarm.co.uk

‘A Bird in the Hand – Yes, Really!’, Bough Beech, Sevenoaks, TN14 6LD 10am-1pm. Get close up to birds and enjoy a ringing demonstration, bird watching, displays, bird crafts, games and refreshments. Meet at Bough Beech Oast Barn. For more details visit www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

April Mon 1 – Tues 30 Apr

House Timed Tickets: April 2019, Chartwell, Westerham, TN16 1PS House timed tickets run every 10 mins throughout the day, from 11.30am Mon-Fri and from 11am on weekends. Booking is essential. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ chartwell

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 24...

KNIGHTS’ STRONGHOLD PLAYGROUND & LEEDS CASTLE ADVENTURE GOLF

NEW FAMILY ATTRACTIONS AWAIT AT LEEDS CASTLE

CELEBRATING 900 YEARS leeds-castle.com

B OO K T ICK E TS NOW ! Join us at the Official Opening with Children’s TV Stars Ben & Ryan on 13th April

Only In Cinemas April 5th www.peppapigfestivaloffun.co.uk #PeppaPigFestivalofFun

EASTER

28997 LC Family Advert Primary Times 90x135mm_V1.indd 1

04/03/2019 16:36

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DATE : 0 6/03/19

N OT S U ITA B LE FO R PR I N T U N LES S L A B EL LED FI N A L

ADVENTURE QUEST

Sat 6 – Mon 22 April 10am – 5pm Calling all valiant adventurers. Embark on a legendary dragon trail, crack the clues and claim your chocolate reward. Deal, Kent CT14 7LJ

The English Heritage Trust is a charity, no. 1140351, and a company, no. 07447221, registered in England.

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

Family Theatre

Orchard Dartford

15 – 16 Apr

Box Office: 01322 220 000 25 – 26 Mar

The Jungle Book

Room on the Broom

The best shows around...

Join the Witch and her cat on their mission to defeat the dragon in Tall Stories’ magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Ages 3+. 18 – 22 Apr

In The Night Garden

Assembly Hall Tunbridge Wells Box Office: 01892 530 613 11 Apr

Brainiac Live Strap on your safety goggles boys and girls, due to popular demand science’s greatest and most volatile live show is returning with a vengeance. Ages 6+.

Cadell will amaze you with impossible tricks and sidesplitting jokes.

Hazlitt Maidstone Box Office: 01622 758 611 18 Apr

Goldilocks & The Three Bears & The Mayor of Porridgeton

Join Igglepiggle as he looks for his friends Upsy Daisy, Makka Pakka and more in the Night Garden by following their funny sounds until he finds them all. 3 – 6 May

Zog

A wildly entertaining adventure for the whole family. The Jungle Book tells the story of Mowgli, a young boy who is raised in the jungle by a family of wolves. 19 – 21 Apr

Bing Live

Join Bing, Sula, Coco and Pando as they find out how to tell stories by pretending, dressing-up and singing songs. 8 – 9 May

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

The much-loved children’s favourite is celebrating its 50th birthday in 2019, and is making its way off the page and onto the stage.

Large in size, and keen in nature, Zog is so eager to win a golden star at Madam Dragon’s school, where dragons learn all the things that dragons need to know.

Quarterhouse Folkestone

A wildly entertaining adventure for the whole family. And don’t 22 Apr The Jungle Book forget to say Alice In tells the story of you saw it in Wonderland Mowgli, a young Primary Go along and join boy who is raised Times! the tea party and in the jungle by a meet the Mad Hatter, The family of wolves. Ages 1+. White Rabbit, Cheshire Cat Brook Chatham and the Queen of Hearts Box Office: 01634 338 338 plus many more exciting 12 – 14 Apr colourful characters.

Trinity Tunbridge Wells

Led by the charming and passionate Mrs H, the Singalong Band brings their unique family music to Kent with a line-up of musicians. Their aim is to provide quality music for everyone.

Wind in the Willows

Come dressed in your best party clothes and help make Pongo’s Party a day to remember, by joining in a show full of fun, songs and laughter. Ages 2-7.

19 – 21 Apr

The Jungle Book

The Panto Bus has taken one of the nation’s favourite fairy tale stories and added a brand new adventure that is fun for the whole Enjoy family. the show!

Join Rat, Mole and Mr. Toad on their adventures in this new musical by Three Towns Theatre Company based on the children’s classic.

Central Chatham Box Office: 01634 338 338 6 –7 Apr

Peter Pan Let your dreams take flight and join the boy who never grows up. Take part in his adventures with Wendy as they fly off to Neverland and meet some fantastical characters along the way. 5 May

Sooty’s Magic Show Direct from their hit ITV series, Sooty, Sweep and Soo and TV’s Richard 8

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

22 – 23 May

Dear Zoo This production will delight all those who have read the book (both young and old) as it unfolds with child-engaging puppets, music and lots of audience interaction.

Mick Jagger Centre Dartford Box Office: 01322 291 100 13 Apr

Bunny & Bob’s Eggcellent Disaster! Disaster strikes when Santa’s naughtiest elf Bobby Glittertights is sent for egg-stra training at the Easter Bunny’s Chocolate Factory. Will you help him put things right in time for Easter? Ages 2-8.

Box Office: 01892 678 678 14 Apr

The Little Red Hen and Lazy John Gets a Job Two stories about learning not to be lazy, this interactive family show has lots of audience participation. Ages 4+. 21 Apr

Pongo’s Party

The Woodville Gravesend Box Office: 08442 439 480 7 Apr

Star Seekers Alph, Betty and Gammo need your help to save their space station, collect all the orbs and delve into the great unanswered question of the universe: what do astronauts really have for tea? Ages 3+.

Box Office: 01303 760 750 Until 5 Apr

Mrs H and the Singalong Band

6 Apr

The Star Seekers

An interactive show that explores the limitless majesty of galaxies, the solar system, shooting stars and planets through songs, silliness and anti-gravity antics. Ages 3+. 27 Apr

Muckers

A funny, magical, physical production with original songs and Spanish, this mischievous show asks what it takes to stand proud and be true to ourselves. Ages 5+.

Sarah Thorne Theatre Broadstairs Box Office: 01843 863 701 17 Apr

Simple Simon

This panto–style show is packed with songs, comedy and lots of joining in – especially the popular ‘Stage Spots’ where lucky children are selected to get up on stage to take part in games and songs.

Enjoy the classic fairy tale ballet Sleeping Beauty together with your child in this new version especially created for children aged three upwards. With a narrator to help the young audience follow the story and a shortened version of Tchaikovsky’s gorgeous music, this is the perfect introduction to the beauty of ballet. It’s a fantastic family day out too. My First Ballet: Sleeping Beauty is at Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells from Saturday 8 – Sunday 9 June. Book your tickets now at www.assemblyhalltheatre. co.uk or call 01892 530 613.

New Venue for Simple Simon Children’s favourite Simple Simon is bringing his brand new Easter Special to Broadstairs to serve the whole of Thanet. The show features Simple Simon, his pet cat Tommy, Fairy Moonbeam and a host of friends as they try to foil the evil ‘Eggbert Shelhead’ in his plot to take over the world. This pantomime style adventure show is packed with song, comedy, and lots of joining in, especially the popular

Bing Live! at Woodville Theatre

Calling all Bingsters! Bing and his friends are coming to the Woodville Theatre in Gravesend in the first ever Bing stage show from Friday 19 – Sunday 21 April. Join Bing, Sula, Coco and Pando as they find out how to tell stories by pretending, dressing up and singing songs. Flop and Amma are there to help, but in this magical world of makebelieve things don’t always go according to plan… Don’t miss the chance to see your little one’s face as their favourite characters are brought to life in this brand-new show. Full of fun, laughter and music, Bing Live! is the perfect first theatre trip for pre-schoolers and their families. For tickets and more information, visit www.woodville.co.uk or call 08442 439 480 Going to the theatre…it’s a Bing thing!

Photo credit: Johan Persson

FRIDAY 19 APRIL 1pm & 4pm SATURDAY 20 APRIL 10am &1pm SUNDAY 21 APRIL 10am & 1pm

BING LIVE!

“A GORGEOUS TREAT FOR KIDS AND PARENTS” THE DAILY EXPRESS

Sat 8 – Sun 9 Jun 2019 ballet.org.uk/myfirstballet Illustration: Mark Ruffle

assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk 01892 530613

‘Stage Spots’ where children are selected at random to get up on stage to take part in games and songs to win small prizes. The show will be taking place at the Sarah Thorne Theatre on Fordoun Road. It is on for one performance only at 2.30pm on Wednesday 17 April. For more information and to book your tickets please visit www.sarahthornetheatre. co.uk.

Family Theatre

My First Ballet: Sleeping Beauty

Join Bing, Sula, Coco, Pando and other favourites from the CBeebies TV show in this lovely, magical world of make-believe. Premium £21, Child £19 Band 1 £18, Child £16 Band 2 £15.50, Child £13.50

www.woodville.co.uk

Box Office

08442 439 480

@WoodvilleGravesend

@TheWoodville

Woodville Place, Gravesend, Kent, DA12 1DD

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

Spring Adventures

Spring Adventures artists featured on BBC Radio Kent’s “The Kent Sessions”. After all of this you’ll need to rest your legs so head to The Mess Deck and enjoy The Dockyard’s delicious Fish & Chips and homemade cakes. Advance tickets are selling fast, so be quick to get yours with amazing online advance discounts available now. Visit thedockyard.co.uk for more details of the Festival of Steam and Transport and of all the activities at the Dockyard over Easter and beyond.

Fun Days Out with the Family Bounce for Free at Gravity

Exclusive to Primary Times readers, the voucher on page 7 entitles you to one FREE BOUNCE when you bring another full paying customer with you to Gravity Trampoline Parks at Lockmeadow Entertainment Centre and Bluewater. The voucher is valid for walk-in only and you must have the voucher with you. The voucher is valid until 15 May. Bounce to your heart’s content with wall-to-wall trampolines, challenge your friends to a game of slam-dunk or dodgeball, hone your skills on the big air bag – or sit back and watch from the viewing gallery whilst enjoying a drink with free Wi-Fi. Looking for a fun-filled birthday party without lifting a finger? Let Gravity take the strain and throw the best party ever. Gravity have everything (and they mean EVERYTHING) under control. Their aim is simple – it’s all about the birthday boy or girl. Anything they need, they’ve got it. If they’re not happy with something, Gravity is on it. And if they give Gravity a ‘high-five’ at the end of the day Gravity know they have done it! For more information, visit www.gravity-uk.com or call 01977 529 920.

Easter at Broadditch Farm

Head down to Broadditch Farm over the Easter weekend holidays and join in the fun. The Easter Bunny Hunt will be open for four weeks from Saturday 30 March - Sunday 28 April. Search for the bunnies amongst the spring flowers on a beautiful woodland walk then claim your prize. Entry costs £4 per child. In the Easter Wonderland a family of mischievous rabbits have moved into the old abandoned farm house. Make your way through the garden to meet Mrs Rabbit who will enchant you with an Easter Tale and an egg-citing gift will be yours. Mrs Rabbit will be in residence from Wednesday 17 April - Monday 22 April. Entry is £6.50 per child and £1 per accompanying adult. Visitors can stay a while, feed the ducks and have a picnic by the duck pond. There are plenty of Easter gifts and refreshments

n mond & sunst & 22 21 il apr

EASTER FAMILY FUN

Festival of Steam and Transport

This Easter Sunday and Monday (21 and 22 April) at The Historic Dockyard Chatham, the Festival of Steam and Transport is back. This family-friendly annual event is a highlight in the Dockyard calendar and this year includes a free funfair, all included in the price of admission to the event.Visitors can ride all day on classic funfair favourites including the Gallopers, Ferris Wheel, Dodgems and many more. Lining the streets will be a variety of classic cars as well as the Dockyard’s trains steaming all weekend. The Steampunks are back by popular demand with live acts, fashion stands, photo opportunities and more all inspired by a Victorian era powered by Steam. The Dockyard will come alive with street entertainers including The Giant Balloon Show and many more. Popping up all over the Dockyard too and new for 2019, music will be filling the air from 10

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Buy an online child combo ticket for Wednesday 17 - Monday 22 April, and only pay £10 for The Easter Bunny Hunt and Easter Wonderland. Advance Combo tickets can be booked online. For more information, please visit www.broadditch.co.uk.

Cyclopark

Cyclopark is Europe’s largest purpose built cycling facility lying just off the A2 in Gravesend. It offers a BMX track, a traffic-free road track, over six kilometres of track for mountain biking, a large skate park, group fitness activities, a children’s playground and much more. Bike hire is available on site. Opening for Easter 2019 will be a new addition to the park. “Cycloland – a beginners’ cycling experience” is going to be perfect for small children starting their cycling journey. Children will be able to use balance bikes in a purpose-built town complete with mini roads, roundabout road signs and even a petrol station and shop.

EASTER BUNNY HUNT AT BROADDITCH FARM From Saturday 30th March until Sunday 28th April during shop opening hours Come along and enjoy our Easter trail. Hunt amongst the spring flowers for the bunnies then claim your prize. Worksheets £4 each

THE EASTER WONDERLAND New for 2019 – A family of mischievous rabbits have

moved into the old abandoned farm house. Make your way through the garden to meet Mrs Rabbit who will enchant you with a Easter Tale and an ‘Egg-citing’ gift will be yours. From Wednesday 17th until Monday 22nd April. £6.50 per child, £1 per accompanying adult. Child Combo Ticket: Wednesday 17th until Monday 22nd April only, £10 per child for The Easter Bunny Hunt & The Easter Wonderland

Cyclopark will also be running a kids club over Easter for children ages 8-12 years, which will include British Cycling coached sessions and an education workshop hosted by Extra Tuition Limited. The kids’ club sessions run from 8am-6pm, which is ideal for working parents. For more information call 01474 831 400 or visit www.cyclopark.com

Spring Adventures

available in the Easter Barn and fresh produce and other delicious goodies in the farm shop. Don’t forget Broadditch is a farm so wear suitable footwear or you could get a little bit muddy.

Shop Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 10am-4pm Good Friday 9am-5pm, Easter Monday 10am-4pm

Broadditch Farm Shop • Manor Farm Southfleet DA13 9PU

• www.broadditch.co.uk • 01474 834161

Cycloland

Opening Spring 2019 www.cyclopark.com

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Spring Adventures

The Big Bluebell Watch

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

Kids can let off steam and enjoy the Farm’s fabulous children’s attractions and rides including Bumper Carz, The Magic Castle, Giant Jumping Pillows, Hopper’s Animal Farm and egg-citing Easter games for the kids. Guests can also get close to the gorgeous lambs and bunnies. Eat fabulous ice-cream and sorbets from Hopper’s Cream and Ice Bar, then have your face painted by one of the talented facepainters. Should there be rain on the day, don’t worry as a number of the attractions will be undercover, so whatever the weather, children and families will enjoy all the fun at the farm without getting cold or wet. Don’t miss the daily timetable of fun indoor entertainment including magic shows, party dancing and balloon modelling. As a special treat, on Tuesday 9 April, Paddington will be visiting the Hop Farm for meet and greets at intervals throughout the day. Treat the kids to a great day out this Easter school holiday at the Hop Farm. For more information, please visit www.thehopfarm. co.uk.

Dino Live at Royal Victoria Place

This Easter, from 6 – 23 April, Royal Victoria Place Shopping Centre in Tunbridge Wells will see the return of some of the largest creatures to have ever walked the Earth… Dinosaurs!

Easter Fun at Maidstone Museum

Hop along to Maidstone Museum this Easter for a basketful of fun and creativity! There will be a different craft activity each day where children can learn how to make everything from dream-catchers and kites to Easter wreaths, baskets and more. With three sessions per day, there’s plenty of opportunity to get involved. Children of all ages will love following the Easter Trail around the Museum. Look for clues to work out the secret phrase and claim your prize. Tickets are just £1 each and the trail is available from 6 – 21 April.

Spring!

at Maidstone Museum Easter Holiday Crafts

Tuesday 9 April - Thursday 18 April

Fun, creative craft activities ideal for children aged 5 - 11 years. 3 sessions per day at 10.30am, 12pm and 1.30pm. £3 per child, £2.50 MMF members

There are more fun activities in store for all the family this May, as the Museum’s extremely popular Family Science Day is back with a bang! Take the whole family along and explore crazy liquids and carry out fun science experiments using everyday household materials. There will be three sessions on Saturday 11 May with lots of chances to get hands-on and perhaps a little bit messy too.

Book online now as space is limited!

Further details about all the forthcoming events and exhibitions can be found at www.maidstonemuseum.org where you can also purchase tickets.

Easter Fun at The Hop Farm

Enter the magical Hop Farm Family Park this Easter from 10am every day. The £3 per person entry fee includes all day indoor soft play, outdoor adventure play, crazy golf and all day entry into the animal farm and activities. 12

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MaidstoneMuseum www.maidstonemuseum.org

After its successful debut at Royal Victoria Place in the summer of 2017, Dino Live will be returning with a brand new selection of dinosaurs. Dino Live will feature a series of scenes located across both levels of the shopping centre where the dinosaurs will be displayed in environments replicating their natural habitat. These life-size animatronic beasts will captivate visitors of all ages as they watch them come alive… move, roar and even breathe! Make sure you see them all. Visitors will be able to enjoy the thrill of getting close and personal with the king of the tyrant lizards, the famous and fearsome Tyrannosaurus Rex, plus other life-size dinosaurs to include the Parasaurolophus, Shunosaurus, Raptorex and everyone’s favourite… the Stegosaurus! Dino Live is open daily and entry is free. For more information about this and other events at Royal Victoria Place, visit www.royalvictoriaplace.com.

Spring Adventures

Dino Live will provide families with a unique and educational journey spanning more than 250 million years. This free event will be open from Saturday 6 April running throughout the Easter school holidays until Tuesday 23 April and will be open during Centre opening hours each day.

Easter Fun at the Farm! - 6 - 22 April

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Children’s Attractions BUMPER CARZ OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PLAY AREA HOPPER’S ANIMAL FARM HOPPER’S DINER & SOFT PLAY WATER ZORBS JUMPING PILLOWS MAGIC CASTLE GROOM A PONY INDOOR ENTERTAINMENT FARM ACTIVITIES DRIVING SCHOOL FACE PAINTING AND MUCH MORE… SUBJECT TO CHANGE

The Hop Farm Family Park Maidstone Rd, Paddock Wood, Kent, TN12 6PY

01622 872068

www.hopfarm.co.uk

*INCLUDES ALL DAY INDOOR SOFT PLAY, OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PLAY, CRAZY GOLF, ANIMAL FARM & FREE PARKING

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FREE FAMILY EVENT

DINO LIVE 6-23 APRIL

The most amazing creatures to ever walk the Earth are back this Easter at Royal Victoria place! See them move, roar and even breathe! All events are free and may be subject to change or cancellation without prior notice.

royalvictoriaplace.com

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Spring Adventures

The Junk Orchestra at Leeds Castle

From 19 - 22 April, it’s your chance to make ‘rubbish’ music at Leeds Castle. Join the Junk Orchestra on the Pavilion Lawn for daily musical jamming sessions where guests can create and play with instruments that have been cleverly constructed using bits of old rubbish. Families can also give their creative skills free reign at the Castle’s Mad Hat Making workshop. From colourful bunny ears to floral spring headbands, have a go at creating a fun and funky Easter hat using card, paint and glitter. A valid admission ticket to Leeds Castle is required for the Easter event. Jamming sessions will be held throughout the day from 11.30am-3pm. Family admission tickets cost £74 for one adult and up to five children or two adults and up to four children. Tickets are also available to purchase separately. To book online for advanced discounts, visit www.leeds-castle.com.

Historic Dockyard Chatham

This Easter is packed full of Eggcellent fun at The Historic Dockyard Chatham! Hopping into the Easter holidays from 6 April to 20 April is Doc.Yard’s Secret Lab. Warm up your vocal chords as this year’s activity is all about sound. Doc.Yard’s assistant, Bunsen, is back with exciting experiments that explore the use of sound - he needs your help to complete them, will you be loud enough?

With a 20-minute show from Bunsen on his favourite experiments and over 10 hands-on experiments available for you to try at your own speed, there will be plenty of interactive science fun. The fun doesn’t stop there - once you’ve finished the experiments, families can pick up their special Easter trail that will see young explorers hunt for the sounds of the Dockyard. Don’t forget to book a free timed ticket to visit Secret Lab on the day of your visit and don’t forget to arrive early to avoid disappointment. Visitors can also book their free tours of The Victorian Ropery to learn the ropes and HM Submarine OCELOT to experience life on board. The Secret Lab and Easter Trail activities are all included in the price of your ticket which is valid for 12 months of Dockyard fun.Visit thedockyard.co.uk for details of all the activities at Easter and beyond.

Fun and Fitness in Maidstone

Maidstone Leisure Centre has a fantastic range of swimming, sports and fitness activities for the whole family. There’s swimming lessons for everyone from adult and baby, to children and adults and all the courses are delivered by qualified instructors and follow the Swim England National Plan for Teaching Swimming.

EASTER FUN

Junk WITH THE

ORCHESTRA 19th to 22nd April This Easter create instruments using bits of old rubbish and join the Junk Orchestra jamming sessions! LOOK OUT FOR THE EASTER TRAIL WITH A CHOCOLATE REWARD

CELEBRATING 900 YEARS leeds-castle.com

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For kid’s fitness, there’s a wide range of gymnastics classes, run in partnership with British Gymnastics, for up to 11 years old so why not sign up. For the adults, there are a fantastic range of group exercise classes if you enjoy the buzz of working out in a group.

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Spring Adventures

If you already know how to swim and like to have a splashabout with the family, there’s a range of pool activities from family fun sessions, waves and flume to the Aqua Challenge – an inflatable assault course where a special life jacket is provided as it’ll have you bouncing, sliding and splashing from beginning to end! Just check out the pool timetable on the website to find out more.

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To fight the boredom during school holidays, Super Stars Holiday Club is a play-scheme with a bit extra for children aged 5-12 years old. Kids can enjoy fun packed activity days with a range of active and creative sessions including multi-sports, team games, arts & crafts, swimming and more to keep them captivated throughout the break. To find out more, visit www.maidstoneleisure.com or search on Facebook for ‘MaidstoneLeisure’.

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Easter Half Term Activities at Maidstone Leisure Centre Sat 6th - Mon 22nd April Bouncy Castle Easter Egg Hunt Face Painting Family Roller Disco Mr Muddles Polar Adventure Soft Play & Ice Slides orkshop African Drumming W + Times & days vary,

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Spring Adventures

Millbrook Minis’ Easter Fun

If you are looking at ways to keep your little ones entertained during the Easter holidays, hop on down to a Millbrook Garden Centre in Gravesend, Staplehurst or Crowborough. The family-run independent garden centres will be running fun-filled bunny-themed events from Monday 15 April to Thursday 18 April. All centres will have unique, interactive animal meet & greet sessions with Our Amazing Animal World.You can also go to creative Make & Take workshops. At Gravesend, you’ll also find special Easter Bunny parties hosted by Mascot Moments. There’s certainly plenty to enjoy. Booking is essential and places are limited. To find out more and to book tickets, visit www.millbrookgc.co.uk.

Hop into Easter Fun at Hever Castle

Family fun at Hever Castle & Gardens throughout the Easter holidays between 6 and 22 April promises to put a spring in your step. Hunt for the colourful carrots around the grounds in a free, fun Easter trail or spot the bunnies in the Castle (free with Castle entrance). Celebrate spring by making and decorating an Easter bonnet at daily craft workshops (for a small additional charge) with a chance to show off your creations in a parade in front of the Castle every day with prizes for the best bonnets. Children can also have their faces painted (for a small additional charge).

As well as the Easter-themed activities a visit to Hever Castle in spring offers a great chance to explore the stunning gardens.Visitors can enjoy a dazzling display of spring blooms from daffodils to hyacinths, camellias and early tulips. Visitors aged 7-14 can explore the Tudor Towers adventure playground with its own moat, drawbridge and three turrets. It features three slides and two poles and lots of interactive elements including musical instruments, a maze and hidden boxes to find. The under 7s can enjoy the natural play area, Acorn Dell with its 2 metre high living willow structure, a giant sandpit, a mound with tunnels to clamber in and a climbing frame. Challenge yourself in the Yew Maze and see how long it takes you to find the way out. Then round off the day with seasonal home-cooked food and mouth-watering cakes in the restaurant followed by a visit to the Gift Shop stocked with Easter goodies. For more information, visit www.hevercastle.co.uk. Photo credit: Hever Castle & Gardens

Spring into Easter with Kent Wildlife Trust

Spring is a magical time and this Easter holiday you can go outside and discover the amazing changes happening in nature as spring draws in. To celebrate spring, Kent Wildlife Trust will be running a Spring Festival on 12 April at Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve.

Millbrook Minis’ Easter Bunny Fun! Monday 15th to Thursday 18th April Keep the little ones entertained in the Easter holidays at one of our fun-filled bunny-themed events.

From meet & greet sessions with Our Amazing Animal World, miniature bunny garden making to Easter parties hosted by Mascot Moments*, there’s lots to enjoy! Tickets cost between £6.50 and £10 dependent on activity. *Easter party at Millbrook Gravesend only.

For information and booking, visit millbrookgc.co.uk

Millbrook Crowborough TN6 3RJ

Millbrook Gravesend DA13 9PA

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Millbrook Staplehurst TN12 9BT

There is lots going on over the Easter holidays to help you get outside and discovering nature. From the 18 - 22 April, Easter Trails will be at Tyland Barn, Maidstone and Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve. Easter Special days will be held on 19 April at Tyland Barn and 21 April at Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve. Get involved in nature with Easter egg hunts, egg painting and grasshead making. Kent Wildlife Trust will also have dedicated pond dipping days on 15 and 17 April where you can learn about the hidden underwater world of ponds and lakes. For more information, please visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk.

During the Easter holidays, tempt your little bunnies out on a Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt. Scotney Castle, Chartwell, Knole, Emmetts Garden and Ightham Mote are running trails for the whole of the school break so beat the rush with an early-bird visit before the Bank Holiday weekend. For more information, visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk. Photo credit: National Trust Images/Megan Taylor

Spring Adventures

Enjoy a variety of activities and crafts including pond dipping, minibeasting, bird feeder making, bug house building and lots more.

Tyland Barn, Maidstone, ME14 3BD Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve, TN13 3DH

National Trust in Kent

Take the family on a nature adventure this spring. There is a new hibernation trail to follow at Ightham Mote and ‘50 Things to do before You’re 11 ¾’ to tick off in the awakening garden at Emmetts Garden, not to mention acres of countryside to scamper across at other National Trust places nearby. And if it’s wet don’t worry – they’re waterproof! Grab a mac and wellies for puddle-splashing, mud-sploshing and raindrop-shaking fun. Kids’ lunchboxes and sweet treats in cosy tea rooms make for an easy pit-stop too.

New friends made with the National Trust Find Easter holiday adventures at Chartwell, Ightham Mote, Knole and Scotney Castle. These are the places that make us. nationaltrust.org.uk/kent

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Out of School Activities Stagecoach Performing Arts offers children aged 4 to 18 tuition in dance, drama and singing. Classes take place at weekends and a two week trial is available. Please see the adjacent advert for details of your local school or alternatively, please visit www.stagecoach.co.uk.

Medway Mini Youth Sports Camps It’s Showtime!

It’s no big secret that involving your children in the performing arts does so much more than improving their singing, dancing and acting. Performing arts classes boost your child’s cognitive, physical and social skills. But the benefits don’t end there. Performing in front of others, often on stage, can enrich your child’s life in many surprising ways. Learning from an early age how to cope with performance jitters gives kids a leg up with those big life moments. Most of us become anxious or nervous if asked to give a speech or presentation at work. For children who have experienced performing to a large audience these situations in life become easier. One of the wonderful things about being in a Showtime performance is that for a short time you get to become someone else. Students start to experiment with their voice, how they move and interact with others. Hearing the roar of applause at the end of a show makes every child feel like a star performer. The instant positive feedback is really rewarding and the memory will last a lifetime. But it’s more than just an ego boost as every performance requires teamwork to succeed. During a performance, kids become part of a larger system, working toward a common goal. It is the culmination of weeks of practice. The performance itself becomes the reward for all that hard work.

With the half term week just around the corner, now is a good chance to plan something to keep the kids occupied. The Mini Youth Sports Camps organised by Medway Sport offer a wide range of coach-led sporting activities that are suitable for children aged 7-12, so your children can have fun whilst staying active. The camps run from 9.30am-4pm and offer the perfect childcare solution for working parents. Each camp offers a wide variety of sports including handball, goalball, football, water activities, including water polo, diving, rookie lifeguard, and more. With a range of sports available, there is sure to be a sport suitable for every child whether they are a beginner or an aspiring Olympian. All sessions involve coaching so your child can improve their sporting technique as well as having fun and making new friends. If you book in advance you will pay just £20 per day per child (saving you £5). Booking on the day will cost £25 per day per child. All four days of the camp costs £65 per child (saving you £15). Discounts are available for Medway Sport Centre Premier and Junior Members. Medway Park sessions run from 9–12 April, 16–18 April and 28–31 May. For more information and to book a place today, please visit www.medway.gov.uk or email medwaysport@ medway.gov.uk.

At Showtime, students are taught by energetic, inspirational and professional performers fresh from the stage and screen. Showtime teachers work hard to discover that special something inside every child. Every child has the chance to be centre stage singing, dancing and acting. Showtime Stage School classes are run on Saturdays and Sundays, morning and afternoons. Learn more at www.showtime.london.

Stagecoach Performing Arts’ World Record

Students of performing arts schools Stagecoach Tonbridge and Maidstone East are officially world record-breakers. They have got their name into the Guinness Book of World Records after taking part in the world’s largest number of simultaneous performances of one show. Students performed a special junior version of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast at exactly 6pm on 1 July last year. A total of 72 other Stagecoach schools throughout the country and abroad performed exactly the same show at the same time. After months verifying records of each school’s performances, the Guinness World Records has announced that a new record has been set. Stagecoach organised the world record event as part of celebrations for its 30th anniversary in 2018. More than 60 students from Stagecoach Tonbridge and over 50 students at Stagecoach Maidstone East performed in the special show last summer to a packed audience.

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Where children become everything they can be Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds DARTFORD 01732 750783 stagecoach.co.uk/dartford

OTFORD 01732 430 387 stagecoach.co.uk/otford

MAIDSTONE EAST 01622 962404 stagecoach.co.uk/maidstone

TONBRIDGE 01444 456208 stagecoach.co.uk/tonbridge

Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.

Out of School Activities

Watch Your Child’s Confidence Grow with Jigsaw Arts The sun is out, the flowers are in bloom and Jigsaw’s Summer Term is just around the corner! With more schools than ever before across London, the Home Counties and South Wales, Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools continues to be a trusted and popular choice amongst parents.

Jigsaw’s dance, singing and drama classes are an excellent way to build confidence and self-esteem in children of all ages. Parents are invited to termly shows and presentations which are directed by Jigsaw’s inspirational team of experienced teachers. Booking is now open for the 2019 Summer Term, so now is the time to book a twoweek trial. To book a place for the Summer Term online, visit www.jigsaw-arts. co.uk/book or call Jigsaw on 020 8447 4530 and secure your child’s place.

Maidstone YMCA

After school during term time, there are so many exciting activities for children of all ages to take part in at Maidstone YMCA that you’re bound to find one your child loves – and is good at. From Cheerleading to Basketball there are lots of different sessions that run. There is no need to book and the sessions are for all kids aged 3-11 years.

Easter School Holiday Club

Maidstone YMCA offer a wide range of Birthday Parties too including Nerf and Bubble Football and activity parties. So if you’re looking for something different give them a call to discuss all the options.

Monday 8th April – Friday 18th April

Why not book YMCA Maidstone’s Holiday Club at Loose Sports and Community Centre for your children these Easter holidays. With sports, fun, games, prizes and arts & crafts, your children will love being part of their club. Sessions run from 9am-4pm but if you need extended hours they have a Breakfast Club from 8am and a Movie Club from 4-6pm. Wednesday afternoon is their ‘WOW Wednesday’ special event, Creepy Claws, for years 1-7. Spaces are limited so make sure you book early to avoid disappointment. Call 01622 749 404 or visit www.maidstoneymca.org.uk.

Sessions from 8am-6pm Lots of fun activities Call 01622 749404 to book www.maidstoneymca.org.uk Maidstone YMCA, Melrose Close, Loose, Maidstone, Kent ME15 6BD Find us on

Charity Number: 1110087

Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools

Book NOW

SCHOOL IN:

Sevenoaks ✴ ✴ ✴

3–18 years

TWO WEEK TRIAL AVAILABLE. BOOK NOW!

020 8447 4530 www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

and decoration, which helps the content be more easily absorbed. The tests track progress over time so the child can see their improvement as they go along, which is a good motivator. It includes varying levels of difficulty for children at various stages of preparation. This is an affordable and easily accessible website charging only £9.99 a month but is also a fun and engaging way to learn that will make the children enjoy revision. Why not use the gadgets that they love as a tool for success? This is the website for you.

Education News

King’s Rochester Welcomes Mr Ben Charles

Mr Ben Charles begins his first term at King’s Rochester this April following his appointment as Principal of King’s and Headmaster of the Senior School. Previously the Second Master of The Portsmouth Grammar School, Mr Charles began his teaching career at The King’s School, Peterborough, where he was Assistant Director of Music. He went on to become Director of Music at Chigwell School in Essex and later at Millfield School in Somerset before moving to the Portsmouth Grammar School. Of his appointment Ben told Primary Times, “I am thrilled and honoured to have been appointed as Principal of King’s School, Rochester and to be joining such a welcoming and happy community. King’s is renowned for its exceptional pastoral care, the breadth of opportunities it provides across the full age range and its commitment to a Christian ethos, all in an incredible and unique setting. I am excited to lead a school with such a rich heritage, but which also has significant aspirations for the future.” Ben is married to Helen, also a teacher and between them they have four young children. He said, “My family and I very much look forward to joining the King’s community and to meeting pupils, parents, staff and alumni in the months and years ahead.”

Your 11 Plus

Who says preparing for 11+ exams cannot be modern, fun and affordable? Check out www.your11plus.com to find out how it can be all these things. Your11plus.com is a relatively new and innovative concept offering online lessons, questions and answers, explanations, educational games and practice tests for students intending to take the 11+ exams to get into grammar or private schools. It covers Maths, English, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning. The teaching parts are clear and concise, without excessive fluff 20

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Maidstone Grammar School for Girls

Maidstone Grammar School for Girls (MGGS) has been providing an outstanding education for girls since 1888. Choosing the right secondary school is one of the most important decisions families make. MGGS has a strong community spirit which is underpinned by the fact that the happiness of all their students is vital in enabling them to succeed. The school’s house system brings students of all ages together in many whole school activities and creates friendships which endure and last well beyond their years at school. The school’s continued proven track record (rated outstanding by OFSTED since 2009), together with their

The High Weald Academy

An 11-18 School for the Cranbrook Community - welcoming students of all abilities 2019 admissions Contact the academy for a personal tour on (01580) 712754 or email: enq@highwealdacademy.kent.sch.uk 2020 admissions Come to one of our open events: Year 5 Taster Days - June 2019 Open Evening and Mornings - October 2019 To book a place go to

www.highwealdacademy.kent.sch.uk/openevents Angley Road Cranbrook Kent TN17 2PJ

Education News

Advanced Thinking School status, underpins the academic curriculum at MGGS, providing students with a thorough grounding for their careers which will take them far into the 21st century. Not only is MGGS well known for its broad curriculum (all students study two languages at Key Stage 3) and academic excellence, it is also well known for the many extra-curricular activities provided for students. Pupils regularly participate in sports clubs, activities such as Astronomy and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Several sports teams and individuals compete at regional and national level. In addition MGGS has a number of music clubs, the various school choirs being very popular. For more information about Maidstone Grammar School for Girls, please visit www.mggs.org.

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Open Day

2019 admissions

Contact the academy for a personal tour on (01732) 500600 or email admissions@hayesbrook.kent.sch.uk

2020 admissions

Come to one of our open events: Year 5 Taster Days – June/July 2019 Open Evening and Mornings - October 2019

To book a place go to

www.hayesbrook.kent.sch.uk/openevents Brook Street • Tonbridge • Kent • TN9 2PH

Meet our new Principal Mr Ben Charles

Saturday 11th May 2019 9.15am – 12 noon The Principal will speak at 9.30am

First rate independent education for boys and girls aged 3 - 18

Maidstone Grammar School for Girls

Year 5 Primary School Events Book Now Online

We have a selection of primary school events for girls wishing to gain a place at MGGS in 2020. Full details of our Primary School Events are available at www.mggs.org/online-bookings

11+ Preparations, Taster Days, One-Off Sessions and Summer School Experience. Excellent GCSE and A Level results in 2018 • Extensive co-curricular programme Top academic results from a broad ability intake • Outstanding Sports facilities Boarding available from age 11 • Wide range of scholarships for 11+, 13+, 16+ entry Cathedral Choristerships available for 8+ boys & 10+ girls 01634 888590 admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk www.kings-rochester.co.uk Extensive daily minibus service including: Gravesend, King’s Hill, Maidstone, Rainham, Sevenoaks

Non sibi sed omnibus

A Tradition of Excellence 25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

Education News

LEAF Open Farm School Days

LEAF Open Farm School Days is a nationwide initiative to get children out onto farms and learning about where their food comes from. Throughout June, farms open their gates and host educational visits for children to learn about how their food is produced and to meet the farmers who grow it. LEAF Open Farm School Days run alongside the annual LEAF Open Farm Sunday - a number of farmers do both. Teachers can find a farm to host a school by visiting www.farmsunday.org/schools. There is also useful information on organising a school visit and highlighting some of the science and technology behind farming.

Plant, Sow, Make & Grow For some mud-tastic activities for budding gardeners this spring, Esther Coombs has created an illustrated, approachable introduction to gardening for little ones. Plant, Sow, Make & Grow encourages healthy eating and educates about where food comes from. It is a book to get people gardening – especially those with children in their care who they want to be gardening with. It’s full of down-to-earth realistic activities with tips, tricks and short cuts to make sure all the projects are doable for all ages. It’s cheap to garden, and this book tries to be as cheap as chips. With tools made from recycled rubbish and lots of other innovative ideas, get your little gardeners growing with this low-stress approach to producing yummy fruit, veggies and bug-friendly flowers.You’ll find lots of handy gardening information to get you started plus tips about what wildlife you may see, raiding your recycling box to make some useful gardening accessories and other craft activities. So grab some seeds and have a go. Esther Coombs is a professional illustrator living and working in rural Kent. The inspiration for the book came from the gardening club (founded by Esther) at her daughter’s school and a charming series of newsletters/zines which she produces and illustrates herself in the same informative and approachable style as this book. Plant, Sow, Make & Grow is available online and from all good high street stores for £12.99. For more information, please visit www.buttonbooks.co.uk. 22

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

The UK’s No 1

CGP is the UK’s number one educational publisher. If you’ve been in school in the last twenty years, or know anybody that has, chances are you’ll have come across CGP — over 90% of UK schools use their books. CGP’s Primary and 11+ ranges contain hundreds of resources covering all subjects for every year of KS1 and KS2, as well as their bestselling SATS prep books — all at the lowest prices. Don’t miss CGP’s best ever 11+ range, which is hot off the press. With brand new Study Guides, Workbooks and Kent specific Practice Papers — CGP has everything your pupils need for 11+ success. To buy CGP’s books just visit their website at www. cgpbooks.co.uk — or visit Amazon, Waterstones, WHSmith and other good bookshops. P G C

Schools Gear Up for the Big Pedal

This week, starting 25 March, nearly 1,400 schools are taking part in Sustrans Big Pedal 2019 – the UK’s largest cycling, walking and scooting challenge for schools. This year’s competition is backed by Angellica Bell, British television, radio presenter and cycling advocate. Organised by the walking and cycling charity Sustrans, the competition will run from Monday 25 March to Friday 5 April and will encourage young people from across the UK to travel by bike, foot or scooter for their journey to and from school. During the 10 days, participating primary and secondary schools will compete with one another to make the most journeys by bike, foot or scooter. To coincide with this year’s event, dozens of schools across the UK will, for the first time, be closing the road outside the school gates to motor vehicles. This is to limit the volume of traffic and help reduce air pollution, while creating an environment in which cycling and walking is safe, convenient and enjoyable. The theme of this year’s Big Pedal is ‘Travelling around the body’, with pupils tracking their progress on a wall chart, learning about the human body and how active travel benefits their health as they go. This year’s competition aims to build on the success of 2018 which saw over 1,300 schools register to take part with teachers, parents, siblings and pupils making more than a million journeys to school by bike or scooter. For more information about the event, please visit www.bigpedal.org.uk Photo credit: ©Sustrans/Paul Tanner

CGP

P G C

Preparing for the Kent Test? — It has to be CGP —

New!  Pass the 11+ Kent Test with the UK’s No.1 educational publisher  Fully updated books for sure-fire success — for pupils aged 7-11  Study Guides, Workbooks and Practice Papers — with free Online Editions!

cgp11plus.co.uk

•

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

What’s On

More What’s On

Your family diary for March, April & May

April Wed 3 Apr

Stories and Rhymes, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH 10.30-11.30am. Listen to a story, join in with the actions, rhymes and songs, and make a themed paper craft to take home. Refreshments included. Suitable for under 5s. Charges apply. For more details visit museum. maidstone.gov.uk

Walled Garden Wednesday: Growing Rhubarb, Scotney Castle, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 8JN 2-3pm. The first rhubarb of the season is ready for harvesting. Go along and hear about the challenges of growing forced and unforced stems. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/scotney-castle

of the nation’s favourite little piggy. For more details visit www. peppapigfestivaloffun.co.uk

Sat 6 Apr

Sevenoaks Sketchers, Bitchet Common, TN15 0SN 11am-1pm. Go along and sketch to your hearts content. Bring out the creative side of yourself and engage in drawing what you’ll see around you. Suitable for families. For more details visit www.kentwildlifetrust. org.uk or email kandice.white@ kentwildlife.org.uk

Fri 5 – Thurs 11 Apr

Peppa Pig: Festival of Fun (U), Various Cinemas Nationwide Don’t miss your chance to see Peppa Pig on the big screen this spring when Peppa Pig: Festival of Fun comes to a cinema near you to mark the 15 year anniversary

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

Kind Kind is a timely and inspiring new picture book with foreword by Axel Scheffler and pictures by 38 international illustrators. It celebrates kindness and humankind as well as the richness and diversity of children’s book illustration. Imagine a world where everyone is kind – how can we make that come true? This book shows readers the many ways you can be kind, from sharing toys and games to helping those from other countries feel welcome. Written by Alison Green and endorsed by Gruffalo illustrator Axel Scheffler, Kind features artwork donated by international illustrators including Sir Quentin Blake, Kitty Crowther, Michael Foreman, Chris Haughton and Lydia Monks. £1 per printed copy will be donated to Three Peas, a charity which provides vital help to refugees from war-torn countries and for which Axel Scheffler is patron. Axel Scheffler told Primary Times, “Whether it’s the small acts of kindness that brighten our daily lives, or the bigger questions of how we help those in real need, we know that a kinder world is a better world.” Kind will be available online and from all good book stores from 4 April for £12.99. For more information, visit www. scholastic.co.uk, or for more information about Three Peas, visit www.threepeas.org.uk. 24

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

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Sat 6 – Mon 22 Apr

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

Hop into Easter Fun, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

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LEGO® and Art Club, Nucleus Arts Centre, Chatham, ME4 4BP

(Also 4 May) 2-4pm. Join a LEGO® and Art Club for children ages 4 and up. There will be plenty of colouring, a different art activity available and lots of LEGO® bricks. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www.nucleusarts.com

The Big Bad Fox and Other Tales (U), Huguenot Museum, Rochester, ME1 1LX 10am-12noon. The countryside isn’t always as calm and peaceful as it’s made out to be, and the animals in this neighbourhood can’t help but ruffle a few feathers. Part of Kids French Film Club. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www. huguenotmuseum.org

Costume Tours, Smallhythe Place, Tenterden, TN30 7NG 1.15pm-2pm. Delve into the store for a peek of the costumes once worn by Ellen Terry and her actor friends. With fascinating stories attached to each garment, costume tours are an opportunity to discover a rich theatrical history. Charges apply.Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/smallhytheplace

Sat 6 - Sun 7 Apr

Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship, Brands Hatch Circuit, Longfield, DA3 8NG Go along to see three races on the gladiatorial Indy circuit. This is your first chance to see the return of the legendary BMW 3 Series, with reigning champion Colin Turkington behind the wheel. Under 13s are admitted free. Charges apply. For more details visit www.brandshatch. co.uk

Sat 6 - Sun 20 Apr

Easter Eggtravaganza, The Historic Dockyard Chatham, ME4 4TE This Easter, expect a fun-packed holiday of activities. From Doc.Yard’s Secret Lab to giant rope eggs hidden across the site for an Easter egg hunt. Charges apply. For more details visit thedockyard.co.uk

Sat 6 – Sun 21 Apr Easter Trail, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH

Follow the Easter bunny trail to find the secret phrase and claim your prize. For more details visit museum. maidstone.gov.uk

Enjoy lots of family fun this Easter with various activities to put a spring in your step. Hunt for the colourful carrots around the grounds in a free, fun Easter trail or spot the bunnies. Celebrate spring by making and decorating an Easter bonnet at daily craft workshops with a chance to showyou’re your creations in a parade. Children can also have their faces painted or explore the Tudor Towers adventure playground with its own moat, drawbridge and three turrets. Admission charges apply. For more details and times visit www. hevercastle.co.uk

Easter Fun, The Hop Farm, Tonbridge, TN12 6PY 10am-5pm. Enjoy the fabulous children’s attractions and rides including Bumper Carz, The Magic Castle, Giant Jumping Pillows, Hopper’s Animal Farm and much more. Plus egg-citing Easter games for the kids. For more details and to book visit www.thehopfarm.co.uk

LEGO® Bricks: Civilisations, Kent & East Sussex Railway, Tenterden TN30 6HE An innovative and entertaining LEGO® touring show with 40 stunning LEGO® models including life-size human figures from a range of civilisations throughout history. This exhibition is FREE to K&ESR Travel Card ticket holders only. For more details visit www.kesr.org.uk

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt, Knole, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP 11am–3pm. Follow the Cadbury trail through Knole Park by finding the wooden bird boxes. Solve the clues and claim your chocolate Easter egg at the end. All ages are welcome, trail most suited to children aged 3-11. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org. uk/knole

Easter Adventure Quest, Walmer Castle and Gardens, Deal, CT14 7LJ 10am-5pm. Join in on the hunt for legendary dragon eggs. Crack the clues as you and your family follow the trail around the castle’s beautiful gardens and receive a chocolate treat. Charges apply. For more details visit www.english-heritage.org.uk

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt, Chartwell, Westerham, TN16 1PS 10am-4pm. Take part in the Easter fun this spring with a Cadbury Easter Egg hunt. Take a stroll through the garden in a Randolph the Rabbit themed hunt to earn your chocolate prize. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/chartwell

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 26... Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

Win a Peppa Pig Prize Bundle Join the party this spring when Peppa Pig heads into cinemas nationwide for an all-new big screen adventure to mark the 15 year anniversary of the nation’s favourite little piggy. Set for release this April, Peppa Pig: Festival of Fun is perfectly timed to entertain little ones ahead of the Easter holidays. For more information about the release, please visit www. peppapigfestivaloffun.co.uk. To celebrate the release of Peppa Pig: Festival of Fun, Primary Times has an amazing bundle of Peppa Pig goodies to give away to one lucky reader. The bundle includes a Musical Party Peppa Plush, Peppa’s Family Home, Muddy Puddle Game, Sing and Learn Microphone, an Inflatable Muddy Puddle and Peppa’s Muddy Festival book. To be in with a chance of winning, simply tell us how many years Peppa Pig has been running for. For details of how to enter, see the bottom of this page.

Win a Bundle of Grinch Goodies The Grinch lives a solitary life inside a cave on Mount Crumpit. 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, CindyLou is plotting to trap Santa Claus on Christmas Eve so that she can thank him for helping her overworked single mother. Will Cindy-Lou achieve her goal or will the Grinch succeed in silencing the Whos’ holiday cheer once and for all? Dr Seuss’ The Grinch is available now on 4K Ultra HD, 3D Blu-ray, Blu-ray and DVD from Illumination and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Primary Times has five bundles of Grinch goodies to give away to five lucky readers. For your chance to win, simply tell us where the Grinch lives. For details of how to enter, see the bottom of this page.

Competitions

Competitions Win One of Five Cyclopark Family Park Tickets Cyclopark is Europe’s largest purpose built cycling facility lying just off the A2 in Gravesend. It offers a BMX track, a trafficfree road track, over six kilometres of track for mountain biking, a large skate park, group fitness activities, a children’s playground and much more. Bike hire is available on site. Visit www.cyclopark.com for more information. Cyclopark will also be running a kids’ club over Easter for children ages 8-12 years. A new addition to the park will be opening for Easter 2019. ‘Cycloland – a beginners’ cycling experience’ is going to be perfect for small children starting their cycling journey. Children will be able to use balance bikes in a purpose-built town complete with mini roads, roundabout road signs and even a petrol station and shop. For your chance to win one of five family park tickets worth £35, tell us where Cyclopark is. See below for details of how to enter.

Win a Year of Adventures at Chessington You and your family of up to five could win a whole year of adventures with Annual Passes to Chessington World of Adventures Resort, plus tickets to Go Ape Chessington! With a Chessington Annual Pass you can visit the Theme Park and Zoo again and again – enjoy a full day out with all the family, an after-school treat or just a wander around the Zoo. Plus, visit the new Room on the Broom – A Magical Journey attraction as much as your little ones like. The fun doesn’t end there… unleash your inner Tarzan with tickets to Go Ape Chessington. Venture into the woods and navigate high ropes as you swing through trees, tip-toe across crossings and crawl through tunnels suspended in the air. Even if you aren’t our lucky winner you can buy a Chessington Annual Pass now in the Annual Pass sale with prices starting from £39pp – see www.Chessington.com for more information. For your chance to win, tell us the name of Chessington’s new attraction. See below for details of how to enter.

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 26 April 2019. If you are entering more than one competition you can put all entries in the same envelope. Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

What’s On

More What’s On

Your family diary for March, April & May

April

Sun 7 Apr

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt, Ightham Mote, Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT

Walk With a Warden, Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve and Jeffery Harrison Visitor Centre, TN13 3DH

10am-4pm. Follow the trail around the garden to earn your Cadbury chocolate prize. Have a look out for the extra activities and adventures to be had along the way, including a natural play area. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/ightham-mote

10.30am-12.30pm. Join a knowledgeable warden for a guided walk to discover Spring and see different signs that it is happening all around us. Charges apply and booking is essential. For more details visit www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Holiday Heroes, Maidstone Leisure Centre, ME15 7RN

Making Nature Magic: Spring Fun, Romney Marsh Visitor Centre, TN28 8AY

Activities during the Easter Half Term will include a bouncy castle; Easter egg hunt, face painting, polar adventures soft play, African drumming challenge, family roller disco and more. For more details visit www.maidstoneleisure.com or call 08451 552 277.

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt, Scotney Castle, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 8JN 10am-4pm. The Hussey children who lived at Scotney Castle in the late 19th century kept diaries about the fun that they had in the grounds. Relive their adventures as you take part in our bird egg hunt in the garden. Charges apply. For details visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/scotney-castle

Shorne Woods Easter Holiday Trail, Gravesend, DA12 3HX 10am-3pm. Pre-book online or drop-in between 10am-3pm and pick up a trail sheet. Explore the woods following a self-led activity trail and see what you can discover. All completed trails will receive a small prize. Charges apply. For more details visit www.kent.gov.uk/leisure-andcommunity

Easter Holiday Trail, Lullingstone Country Park, Eynsford, DA4 0JF 10am-3pm. Pre-book online or drop in between 10am-3pm and pick up a trail sheets. Explore the woods following a self-led activity trail and see what you can discover. All completed trails will receive a small prize. Charges apply. For more details visit www.kent.gov.uk/leisure-andcommunity

Mon 8 Apr

10.30am-12.30pm, 1.30-3.30pm. Be a magical explorer of the nature reserve. Go on a bug hunt, learn where mythical creatures come from on a trail, and then create natural dream catchers, woodland wands and plaster of animal tracks. Charges apply.Visit www.kentwildlifetrust. org.uk

Mon 8 – Thurs 18 Apr Holiday Heroes Easter Half Term Activities, Swallows Leisure Centre, ME10 4NT

Enjoy fun activities such as gymnastics, kick start rugby, arts and crafts, circus skills, an Easter egg hunt and Jurassic George and the Dinosaur. Charges apply. For details visit www.swaleleisure.com.

Mon 8 – Sat 20 Apr

Free Easter Family Fun, Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre, Gillingham, ME7 3PD For the first week of the school holidays, families can take part in the Easter arts and crafts sessions. The following week, the centre will be hosting free Easter bunny hunts, alongside an Easter gift and garden event. For more details visit www. hempsteadvalley.com

Mon 8 – Mon 22 Apr

Easter Eggsplorer, Bewl Water Country Park, Lamberhurst, TN3 8JH 10am-4pm. Collect an Easter map from The Waterfront Cafe, walk around the Bewl trail and see if you can spot the Easter houses. Children

Sat 6 – Mon 23 Apr

Dino Live, Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells TN1 2SS Families will be provided with a unique and educational journey spanning more than 250 million years. Enjoy the thrill of getting close and personal with the king of the tyrant lizards, the famous and fearsome Tyrannosaurus Rex, plus other life-size dinosaurs.Visit www. royalvictoriaplace.com

25 Mar - 12 May ‘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

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

Fri 12 Apr

Spring Festival, Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve and Jeffery Harrison Visitor Centre, TN13 3DH

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will need the special word to redeem their treat at the end of the trail. Charges apply. Call to book 01892 890 000. For more details visit www. bewlwater.co.uk

Tues 9 Apr

Paddington, The Hop Farm, Tonbridge, TN12 6PY Children’s film favourite Paddington will be visiting the Hop Farm for meet and greets at intervals throughout the day. Charges apply. For more details visit www. thehopfarm.co.uk

Easter Holiday Crafts: DreamCatcher, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH 10.30am-2.30pm. Enjoy fun, creative crafts ideal for children aged 5–11. You’ll be creating a beautiful dreamcatcher. Charges apply. For more details visit museum.maidstone.gov. uk

Tues 9 – Thurs 18 Apr

Kids for a Quid! Spa Valley Railway, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5QY (Selected dates) All accompanied children aged 2+ can travel for just £1 on selected Steam and heritage diesel running days throughout the year. To book tickets and for train times visit www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk

Wed 10 Apr

Easter Holiday Crafts: Jazzy Kite, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH 10.30am-2.30pm. Enjoy fun, creative crafts ideal for children aged 5 – 11. Go along and create a jazzy kite. Charges apply. For more details visit museum.maidstone.gov.uk

Making Nature Magic: Spring Fun, Tyland Barn, Maidstone, ME14 3BD 10.30am-12.30pm, 1.30-3.30pm. Be a magical explorer of the nature reserve. Go on a bug hunt, learn where mythical creatures come from on a trail, and then create natural dream catchers, woodland wands and plaster of animal tracks. Charges apply.Visit www.kentwildlifetrust. org.uk

Thurs 11 Apr

Easter Holiday Crafts: Easter Wreath, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH 10.30am-2.30pm. Enjoy fun, creative crafts ideal for children aged 5–11. Go along and make a pretty Easter wreath. Charges apply. For more details visit museum.maidstone.gov.uk

10.30am-3.30pm. A wonderful celebration of spring as the animals begin to reveal themselves and the flowers start to bloom. Activities and crafts for everyone to enjoy, choose your perfect selection for a fantastic day out. Charges apply. For more details visit www.kentwildlifetrust. org.uk

Fri 12 – Sat 13 Apr

Guided Walks: Bat Spotting, Knole, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP 7.30–9.15pm. Set off on a dusk walk in Knole Park to find resident bats with an expert ecologist. Suitable for families with children aged 5+. Charges apply, booking is essential. To book visit www.nationaltrust.org. uk/knole

Sat 13 Apr

Adventure Golf and New Playground Official Opening, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL 12noon.Visitors should arrive early to be first to explore the new family attractions. As part of the 900th anniversary celebrations, children’s TV presenters Ben Cajee and Ryan Russell from CBeebies will open the attractions. Admission charges apply. For details visit www.leeds-castle. com

Sat 13 – Fri 19 Apr

Woodland Walk to Wilderness Camp, Scotney Castle, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 8JN 11.30am-1pm, 2-3.30pm. Enjoy a fun family walk through the park looping via Colliers wood and stopping at the wilderness camp. Free event, admission applies. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ scotney-castle

Mon 15 Apr

Discover Pond Life, Tyland Barn, Maidstone, ME14 3BD 11am-12.30pm, 1.30-3pm. Join in on a fantastic pond dipping session as you discover a range of usually hidden creatures. Charges apply.Visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Mon 15 – Thurs 18 Apr Millbrook Minis Make and Take Workshop, Gravesend, DA13 9PA

Keep the little ones entertained at one of the fun-filled bunny themed events. From meet and greet sessions with ‘Our Amazing Animal World’ to make and take workshops, there’s lots to enjoy. Also at Millbrook Staplehurst, TN12 9BT. For more details and times visit www. millbrookgc.co.uk

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 28... Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

All your own work! Millie aged 10

Ella Easton Millns aged 7

There was a young pirate from Wye. Who sat in a smelly pig stye. When they said does it smell? He said, no it's swell. That silly young pirate from Wye.

Bintcliffe won The Cat in the competitions in our February Half Term issue. Katie Congratulations to the following people who won e Marshall, Megan Bloom, Prockter won a family pass to Leeds Castle. Sophi Hat competition at the Rose Theatre. Chloe and Katie Richardson won a family Aiden es. with a Clock in it's Walls' prize bundl Jay Jackman and Lola Wilson-Day won 'The House school - St Johns CE his for Maxim nder books was won by Alexa ticket to Marvel's Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. A box of a Omari, Eshal Pervaiz, Halim to way their on are etition comp Day Book Primary. Bundles of LegoÂŽ Books from the World by Will Saunders, won were Kid Who Would Be King goody bags Emma Pydyn, Santiago Bolea and Bertie Lambie. The membership to family l annua the won Kay BA Ava-Rose O'Connor. Mrs Callum Gokani, Isabelle Shurety, Bobby Sharp and and our older winner 's drawing competition for the younger age group Amberley Museum. Ella Easton Millns won Annie all our winners and enjoy the artwork If you would like to see with a drawing and poem was Millie. Well done to 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 Jay for the Children of the World picture, Emilia Narkevic for her Young Voices drawing, Rose Batty for her Spring scene and Prajina Gopikishna for her Unicorn style picture We love seeing your work so do please keep sending it to us.

What’s On

More What’s On

Your family diary for March, April & May

April Tues 16 Apr

Easter Holiday Crafts: Easter Chick Craft, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH 10.30am-2.30pm. Enjoy fun, creative crafts ideal for children aged 5–11. Go along and make an Easter chick craft. Charges apply. For more details visit museum.maidstone.gov.uk

Wed 17 Apr

Easter Holiday Crafts: Easter Bunny Craft, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH 10.30am-2.30pm. Enjoy fun, creative crafts ideal for children aged 5–11. Go along and make an Easter bunny craft. Charges apply. For more details visit museum.maidstone.gov.uk

Discover Pond Life, Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve and Jeffery Harrison Visitor Centre, TN13 3DH 11am-12.30pm, 1.30-3pm. Join in on a fantastic pond dipping session as you discover a range of usually hidden creatures. Charges apply.Visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Wildlife Holiday Fun, Bough Beech, Sevenoaks, TN14 6LD 2-4pm. Get dipping in the beautiful wildlife pond, then join in fun and craft activities, guided by friendly staff and volunteers. Meet at Bough Beech Oast Centre. Charges apply. For more details visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Walled Garden Wednesday: The Asparagus Plot, Scotney Castle, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 8JN

Meet Mrs Rabbit who will read you an enchanting Easter tale and then give you a present. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www.broadditch.co.uk

Thurs 18 Apr

Easter Holiday Crafts: Easter Basket, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH 10.30am-2.30pm. Enjoy fun, creative crafts ideal for children aged 5–11. Go along and make a pretty Easter basket. Charges apply. For more details visit museum.maidstone.gov. uk

11am-12.30pm, 1.30-3pm. Celebrate Easter with a little nature fun with an outdoor Easter Egg Hunt in the beautiful nature garden, plus crafts for the children to enjoy. Charges apply. For more details visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

11am-4pm. Running on all four days, join in celebrating the reopening of the Railway for the 2019 Season. A quick return trip takes about an hour, but you can stay longer and visit the award winning gardens, museum and more. Charges apply. For more details visit www.sklr.net

Easter Egg Hunt 2019, Demelza House, Sittingbourne, ME9 8DZ

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts, Sissinghurst Castle, Nr Cranbrook, TN17 2AB

Go along for a great family day out. Help Cotton Tail find his friends in the glorious Demelza gardens and each child will receive a prize for completing the Easter Egg Hunt. For times and more details visit www. demelza.org.uk

11am–3pm. Take part in the Cadbury Egg hunt in the grounds of the world famous garden created by Harold Nicolson and Vita SackvilleWest. Follow the trail to claim your chocolatey prize. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/sissinghurstcastle

Fri 19 – Mon 22 Apr Easter Fun with the Junk Orchestra, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL

2-3pm. Have you ever wondered if asparagus is difficult to grow, and if it suffers from pests and diseases? Go along find out how the team grows theirs. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/scotney-castle

Easter Bunny Party hosted by Mascot Moments, Millbrook Gravesend, DA13 9PA

Spring Nature Easter Trail, Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve, TN13 3DH 10am-4pm. Discover and explore the reserve as you follow a self-led rabbit trail. Get all the answers and

Wed 17 – Mon 22 Apr Easter Wonderland, Broadditch Farm Shop, Southfleet, DA13 9PU

In the Easter Wonderland a family of mischievous rabbits have moved into the old abandoned farm house.

Snail Easter Trail, Tyland Barn, Maidstone, ME14 3BD

Fri 19 Apr

Easter Egg Round Up, Tyland Barn Visitor Centre and Nature Park, Maidstone, ME14 3BD

25 Mar - 12 May ‘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

Sun 21 Apr

Spring into Easter, Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve and Jeffery Harrison Visitor Centre, TN13 3DH

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receive a chocolate prize. Charges apply. For more details visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

10am-4pm. Follow a Snail Trail through the nature garden while discovering lots of different habitats from across Kent. Get all the answers and receive a chocolate prize. Charges apply. For more details visit www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Join the Junk Orchestra for daily musical jamming sessions. Create and play with instruments that have been cleverly constructed using old rubbish. Children can take part in a hat making workshop or enjoy an egg-cellent Easter trail through the grounds. To book visit www.leedscastle.com

10.30am, 12.30pm, 3pm.You’re invited to a fun-filled Easter Bunny party hosted by party specialists, Mascot Moments! Enjoy party games, dancing, balloon modelling, sweet treats and special Easter Bunny guest appearances. Charges apply. For more details visit www.millbrookgc.co.uk

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

Easter Weekend, Sittingbourne’s Steam Railway, ME10 2XD

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts, Smallhythe Place, Tenterden, TN30 7NG 11am-4pm. Spring into spring, enjoy the outdoors and explore the nature trail at Smallhythe Place. Will you complete the quest and claim your chocolatey prize? Charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/smallhythe-place

Sat 20 Apr

Easter Sheep Fun, Romney Marsh Visitor Centre and Nature Reserve, TN28 8AY 11am-12.30pm, 1.30-3pm. Get involved in a traditional Easter Egg Hunt, and then create woollen sheep and painted eggs to take home with you. Charges apply. For more details visit www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Sat 20 – Mon 22 Apr

Easter Egg Quiz, Lullingstone Castle, Eynsford, DA4 0JA 11am-5pm. Enjoy family fun on Easter Saturday with the annual Easter Egg trail and quiz. Scour The World Garden for Easter clues and then report on their discoveries to claim an Easter eggtastic surprise. Charges apply. For more details visit www. lullingstonecastle.co.uk

11am-12.30pm, 1.30-3pm. Go on a nature-themed Easter egg hunt and make a range of spring/Easter themed crafts. Just in time for those spring flowers and the Easter Bunny. Charges apply. For more details visit www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Easter Open Day, The Warren Bredgar Sittingbourne, ME9 8AT Enjoy the first open day of 2019 with a Easter egg hunt for the kids. For more details visit www.bwlr.co.uk

Sun 21 - Mon 22 Apr

Festival of Steam and Transport 2019, The Historic Dockyard Chatham, ME4 4TE The family favourite Easter event is back. From steam trains, to a free funfair, to food stalls to steam punks and live music, it’s an event not to be missed. Charges apply. For more details visit thedockyard.co.uk

British Truck Racing, Brands Hatch Circuit, Longfield, DA3 8NG Enjoy two days of action, culminating with a bumper to bumper race day on Easter Monday. There will be support races too, and plenty of off-track activities making this a great spring day out for the family. Under 13s are admitted free. Charges apply. For more details visit www. brandshatch.co.uk

Wed 24 Apr

Ranger Roams, Ightham Mote, Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT 10.30am-12.30pm. Join the rangers and discover more about the history, flora and fauna on the estate, together with how they care for this area. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/ightham-mote

Wed 24 – Tues 30 Apr Tulip Celebrations, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

Visitors will be able to enjoy free daily tours with the gardeners and marvel at the 21,000 tulips, in a myriad of colours and different varieties planted in the Castle grounds and Italian gardens. Admission charges apply. To find out more visit www.hevercastle.co.uk

Fri 26 Apr

Bluebell and Wildflower Walk, Sissinghurst Castle, Nr Cranbrook, TN17 2AB (Also 28 Apr) 2–4pm. Take part in a guided walk with a Ranger during the spring season, a great chance to see the array of wild flowers, followed by an inclusive cream tea in the restaurant. Charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ sissinghurst-castle

Your family diary for March, April & May

April Fri 26 Apr – Fri 24 May Nature Tots, Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve and Jeffery Harrison Visitor Centre, TN13 3DH

(Fridays only) 9.45-11.45am. A wonderful opportunity for little ones to explore, discover and learn from nature and gain a sense of achievement from a variety of nature, art and craft-based activities. Ages 2-5. Charges apply. Also at Denstead Wood. For more details visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Sat 27 Apr

Guided Walks: Spring and Bluebells, Knole, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP 2-4pm. Discover the joys of spring with beautiful views over the Weald on this family walk. Dogs on leads are welcome. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/knole

Sat 27 – Sun 28 Apr

Autism Arts Festival 2019, Gulbenkian, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NB 10am. A two-day festival of arts by and for people on the autistic spectrum. It aims to be both a celebration of autistic creativity and an attempt to develop a relaxed performance which is accessible to neurodivergent people too. Charges apply. For more details visit www. thegulbenkian.co.uk

Sat 27 Apr – Mon 6 May Signs of Spring, Scotney Castle, TN3 8JN

11.30am-1pm, 2-3.30pm.Visit the best locations showcasing spring. See bluebells in the coppice, butterflies, birds and various early wildflowers. Free event, admission applies. For more details visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/scotney-castle

Sun 28 Apr

Junior Parkrun, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF

7Oaks Triathlon, Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, TN13 1LW 7am. Swimming, cycling and running all in one; take on this year’s 7Oaks Triathlon and help raise money for families facing terminal illness. For more details and to register visit ellenor.org

May Wed 1 May

Walled Garden Wednesday: Supporting and Staking Plants, Scotney Castle, TN3 8JN 2-3pm. Go along and learn about plant supports, using different materials and techniques for different vegetables, plants and trees. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ scotney-castle

Wed 1 – Fri 31 May

House Timed Tickets: May 2019, Chartwell, Westerham, TN16 1PS House timed tickets run every 10 mins throughout the day, from 11.30am Mon-Fri and from 11am on weekends. Booking is essential. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ chartwell

9-10am. Betteshanger Junior Parkrun is a free 2k run suitable for ages 4-14. Registration is essential. For more information visit www.betteshangerpark.co.uk

Betteshanger Bikes, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF 10am-11.30am. Join the weekly cycle club for young mountain bikers. Learn awesome skills and take part in exciting games from British Cycling qualified coaches. Suitable for ages 8-14. Charges apply. For more information visit www.betteshangerpark.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

“

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

Sat 4 May

”

Guided Walks: Spring and Bluebells, Knole, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP

Blancpain GT World Challenge Europe, Brands Hatch Circuit, Longfield, DA3 8NG The 2019 Blancpain GT World Challenge Europe kicks off with a mouth-watering supercar spectacular, starring racing versions of some of the planet’s most exotic performance cars. Under 13s are admitted free. Charges apply. For more details visit www.brandshatch.co.uk

Sat 4 – Mon 6 May

May Day Festival, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

2-4pm. Discover the joys of spring with beautiful views over the Weald on this family walk. Dogs on leads are welcome. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/knole

Traditional celebrations to welcome in the spring from the mythical Green Man of folklore and Jack-in-theGreen plus a duckling trail, children’s face painting and more. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.hevercastle.co.uk

Sevenoaks Sketchers, Weald Common, TN14 6PY

Merton Vintage Show

11am-1pm. Go along and sketch to your hearts content. Bring out the creative side of yourself and engage in drawing what you’ll see around you. Suitable for families. For more details visit www.kentwildlifetrust. org.uk or email kandice.white@ kentwildlife.org.uk

Meet Mr. Tickle and Little Miss Sunshine, Dover Castle, CT16 1HU 11am-4pm. Go along to Dover Castle where Mr. Tickle and Little Miss Sunshine will entertain visitors to the castle during Story Time sessions, led by a narrator, at intervals. Charges apply. For more details visit www. english-heritage.org.uk

Sunset Session: May the Fourth Be With You, Dreamland, Margate, CT9 1XJ 6-11pm. Dreamers, ravers, and space invaders rejoice – Dreamland’s Sunset Sessions return to Margate on Star Wars Day. Charges apply. This is an all age event, but under 16 year olds must be accompanied by an adult aged 18+. For more details and to book visit www.dreamland.co.uk

Boot & Spring Fayre, Park House Animal Sanctuary, Canterbury, CT4 6AN Boot Fayre 8am. Go along to raise some vital funds needed. There will be entertainment from 11am to include The East Kent Piping Society and Tweethearts, a heart-warming interactive adventure with live music. For more details visit www. lordwhisky.co.uk

Costume Tours, Smallhythe Place, Tenterden, TN30 7NG 1.15pm-2pm. Delve into the store for a peek at the costumes once worn by Ellen Terry and her actor friends. With fascinating stories attached to each garment, costume tours are an opportunity to discover a rich theatrical history. Charges apply.Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/smallhytheplace

What’s On

More What’s On

Sat 4 May – Sun 5 May

Enjoy a spectacular three day annual event. There will be various different trades, craft, auto jumble and boot stalls for guests to wander round as well as a fun dog show, various bouncy inflatables and face painting. For more details visit www. mertonvintageshow.co.uk

Sat 4 – Tues 7 May

Literary Festival, Chiddingstone Castle, TN8 7AD Four days of exciting talks and performances from famous authors, poets and theatrical groups spread throughout the historic house and grounds of Chiddingstone Castle. Events are suitable for both adults and children. Charges apply. For more details visit www.chiddingstonecastle. org.uk

Sat 4 May – Sun 1 Sep

Endangered and Extinct, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH A family-friendly exhibition of sculptural animals, birds, fish and flora on the edge of extinction, or totally lost, fashioned with ingenuity, humour and skill by creative recycling artist Val Hunt from throw-away materials. Charges apply. For more details visit museum.maidstone.gov.uk

Sun 5 May

Junior Parkrun, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF 9-10am. Betteshanger Junior Parkrun is a free 2k run suitable for ages 4-14. Registration is essential. For more information visit www.betteshangerpark.co.uk

Betteshanger Bikes, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF 10am-11.30am. Join the weekly cycle club for young mountain bikers. Learn awesome skills and take part in exciting games from British

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 30...

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

What’s On

More What’s On

Your family diary for March, April & May

May

Sat 11 May

Cycling qualified coaches. Suitable for ages 8-14. Charges apply. For more information visit www.betteshangerpark.co.uk

Bluebell Walk 2019, Heart of Kent Hospice, Harrietsham Village Hall, ME17 1AP Begin your 6 mile walk anytime between 8.30am and 10am amongst the Bluebells on the North Downs. Afterwards, refuel with hot food and refreshments from the village hall. For more information and to register visit www.hokh.org

Cream Tea Trains, East Kent Railway Trust, Shepherdswell, CT15 7PD Go along on a trip on the scenic railway and enjoy a delicious cream tea while admiring the view. For more details and to book tickets visit www.eastkentrailway.co.uk

Sun 5 – Mon 6 May

Jack the Station Cat and Edward Bear Weekend, Sittingbourne’s Steam Railway, ME10 2DZ 11am-4pm. Jack the Station Cat and Edward Bear are stars in a series of children’s books available from the Railway Shop.You will also be able to meet them and win a prize by completing the mouse hunt. Charges apply. For more details visit www. sklr.net

Mon 6 May

Spring Fair, Belmont House and Gardens, Faversham, ME13 0HH 11am–4pm. Browse through a superb range of quality plants and herbs, garden-related gifts, artwork and more. There will be a collection of local crafters and artisans with unique quality hand-made gifts. Local food and drink will be available too. For more details visit www.belmonthouse.org

Big Fish Little Fish Family Rave, Dreamland, Margate, CT9 1XJ

Family Science Day, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH 10.30am-3.30pm. Fun activities for all the family exploring crazy liquids and fun science experiments using everyday household materials. Charges apply. For more details visit museum.maidstone.gov.uk

Wildlife Warden Walk Migrant and Breeding Birds, Bough Beech, Sevenoaks, TN14 6LD 9.45am-12.15pm. Go on a walk around the beautiful Bough Beech reserve and learn all about the diverse range of migrant and breeding birds. Charges apply. For more details visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

With Map and Musket, Quebec House, Westerham, TN16 1TD 1-4pm. Join an eighteenth century surveyor as he explains how map makers played a key role in the Quebec campaign. Children are welcome. Free event, admission applies. For more details visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/quebechouse

Festability, Quex Park and Powell-Cotton Museum, Birchington, CT7 0BH 12noon-8pm. Festability is a Music Festival for people with disabilities living in Kent. There are over 50,000 children, young people & adults with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities in Kent. For more details visit www.quexpark.co.uk

Sat 11 - Sun 12 May

Motors by the Moat, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL Get up close to hundreds of vintage, high performance and classic cars. The cars will be displayed on the Castle lawns for the whole family to enjoy.Visitors can also enjoy a brand new programme of events, including a jaw-dropping Jet Ski display on the moat. To book visit www.leeds-castle. com

2-4pm. Go along to this Flower Power themed family event on a dance floor complete with bubbles, balloons, confetti cannons and more. Expect crafts, colouring and toddler play space. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www. dreamland.co.uk

Wed 8 May

Happy’s Circus, Shoreham Village School, TN14 7SN A community event and all are welcome. Gates will open at 4pm for fun-filled games, entertainment, bar, hotdogs and confectionery. Charges apply. To book visit www.pta-events. co.uk/foss2019

25 Mar - 12 May ‘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

”

Steam and Diesel Gala, Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, TN28 8PL

A full weekend of Steam and Diesel fun. Special runs with all available locomotives in service including Green Goddess. For times, more details and to book visit www.rhdr.org.uk

Sun 12 May

Live Folk at the Oast, Bough Beech, Sevenoaks, TN14 6LD 1-5pm. Enjoy an afternoon of live folk music, or bring an instrument and join in. Refreshments available. For more details visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Fri 17 May

Bat Walk, Bough Beech, Sevenoaks, TN14 6LD 8-10.30pm. After an introduction in the barn, with a chance to see a live bat, go for a walk around the farm fields and meadows looking out for bats and other night creatures. Ages 5+. Charges apply. For more details visit www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Sat 18 May

Family Festival, Riverview Junior School, Gravesend, DA12 4SD 2-8pm. Everyone is welcome to this family community event. There will be activities for kids of all ages. Expect a variety of craft and gift stalls, refreshments including a BBQ and bar and live music and entertainment. For further details email parent_ association@riverview-junior.kent. sch.uk

Creative DSLR Photography Workshop, Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve, TN13 3DH 10am-1pm. Learn how to better utilise your camera for nature photography and the best techniques to get shots of landscapes and wildlife with expert photographer Sarah Medway. Charges apply. For more details visit www.kentwildlifetrust. org.uk

Sun 19 May

Betteshanger Bikes, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF

Mon 13 – Sun 19 May

10am-11.30am. Join the weekly cycle club for young mountain bikers. Learn awesome skills and take part in exciting games from British Cycling qualified coaches. Suitable for ages 8-14. Charges apply. For more information visit www.betteshangerpark.co.uk

Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle Walk, Nationwide Join thousands across the UK and organise a Muddy Puddle Walk with your family and get sponsored to raise money for Save the Children. For more details and to sign up for a free fundraising pack visit www. savethechildren.org.uk

It’s a Knockout, Government Acre, Ramsgate, CT11 0HE 9am-3.30pm. Go along for a hilarious day full of inflatable fun, outrageous costumes and a knockout challenge. It’s a Knockout is a fun-tastic way to support Pilgrims and help be there for the next family that needs you. For more details and to register www.pilgrimshospices.org

Wed 15 May

Walled Garden Wednesday: Seed Sowing, Scotney Castle, TN3 8JN

Our next copy deadline is

26 April 2019.

2-3pm. Seeds sown and plants grown in protected conditions will need hardening off before planting out. Go along and join professional gardeners to hear how to sow, propagate and grow on ready for summer. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ scotney-castle

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

listings@ primarytimes.biz

Rain Word Search T L D L H A W F T N S I I A M R G L C W

T Q I C P F L O O D

N U L K R B U T D W

E G U L E D E S U P

R R L T B E Y N O I

R G E U L B V I L C

O W R S S N M A C E

T S E L Z Z I R D R

What is a king’s favourite weather? Hail!

T M O N What’s a S tornado’s O favourite game? O Twister! N L P

Can you find all these words in the word search? Deluge, Drizzle, Flood, Hail, Monsoon, Rainfall, Sleet. Cloudburst, Torrent, Precip, Rainstorm, Mist, Cloud, Wet

How does the rain tie its shoes? With a rainbow!

Answers

lown’s April Showers

Spot the Difference: In Picture B the girl is smiling, she has short hair, she is wearing trousers, the flower is now orange, there is a second pink flower, the tree has changed. Looking-Glass: 1-6, 2-14, 3-5,4-13, 7-9, 8-12, 10-16, 11-15

Katie

Spot 6 Differences

What does a cloud wear under his raincoat? Thunderwear!

Looking-Glass Can you draw a picture or write a poem about anything to do with umbrellas or wellington boots? Make it as wild as you can! Send it to us to have a chance of winning a Primary Times Tee Shirt AND seeing your prize winning entry published in the next Primary Times! Categories: ages 4-7 and 8-11 Name: Age: Address:

Postcode: School:

Send your entry together with this completed form to:

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

competitions@primarytimes.biz

Closing date 26 April 2019. Good Luck!

Can you spot the pairs of mirrored pictures?

A n s w e r s