South East London September 2019 Back to School Primary Times by Alison Watson

What’s On Where

51,500 COPIES FOR FAMILIES OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN

South East London

EXCELLENCE FOR OUR

C OMM U NITY BUILDING POSITIVE PARTNERSHIPS ACROSS BEXLEYHEATH & ERITH

King Henry School is partnered with Townley Grammar School, one of the top performing schools in the country, as part of The Odyssey Trust for Education. We believe that a high performing Grammar School can have a positive influence on students in the wider area. By supporting the education of students in a non-selective setting, as well as applying successful professional development, training and recruitment procedures, we can have a lasting and sustainable impact on the lives and life chances of young people in Bexley and potentially beyond.

“one equal temper of heroic hearts”

CHOOSING YOUR NEW SCHOOL • DAYS OUT • COMPETITIONS

SEPTEMBER 2019 2 SEPT - 13 OCT 2019 ISSUE 122

Ofsted Good Provider

“Pupils leave the school well equipped for the next stages of their education or career, and for their future lives as responsible citizens” Ofsted 2018

Judged by Ofsted (May 2018) as being a ‘good school’ in all respects, we offer high quality teaching, in a safe and happy environment to ensure every student will succeed and flourish in our fully inclusive school. We have the highest expectations for academic scholarship, outstanding behaviour and personal development. Our young people work hard, show good manners and make lasting contributions to their school and the wider community. These are the hallmarks of a Plumstead Manor education.

We would welcome you to visit our fantastic school: Term Time Open Mornings: Every Tuesday from 9.00am - 10.30am. Open Evening: Thursday 3rd October 5pm - 8pm.

Old Mill Road, London, SE18 1QF tel: 020 3260 3333

www.plumsteadmanor.com email: info@plumsteadmanor.com

Dear Readers

Welcome to the first issue of the new school year. I hope you all enjoyed the summer holidays and are ready for Primary Times in South East London this term. For all the parents and children who are new to 7 Southbrook Mews school let me explain who we are. Primary Times is the London SE12 8LG free What’s On, Where to Go,Things to Do magazine that is Tel: 020 8318 0400 distributed via the book bag two weeks before any school Email: office@primarytimes.biz holiday plus this Back to School issue. We publish seven Website: www.primarytimes.co.uk times a year in 59 different regions around the country Twitter: @PT_LondonSandE and are totally free to our readers. We’re full of everything Instagram: @primarytimesse families with primary aged children are interested in. We always have bursting full pages of listings on what to do Publishing Editor: Peter Watson during the school holidays. We publish a roundup of local Sales: Lola Olowofela, Gill Pearce, theatre and cover local news. We have lots of suggestions Andrew Langridge & Catherine Dillon for out of school activities. We have lots of competitions Listings: Hayley Hughes to enter and as we were told recently, “we are the parents’ Production: Alison Watson bible”. Office Manager: Chris Blower Just as we’re welcoming our new readers, now is a Administrators: Claire Wood, busy time for Years 5 and 6 getting ready to move onto Tina Love & Alina McCrone secondary school. Our comprehensive guide to choosing Editorial Assistant: Izy Cheesman your new school will be invaluable with open days and Proof Reader: Catherine Draisey other information. Please do check the open day dates Social Media: Rachel Benson in our tables. It takes a long time to get all the information and we start early, so changes can happen. Even though Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in primary and junior schools throughout the boroughs of Bexley, Bromley it may seem a long way off, parents of younger children will and Greenwich. Its aims are to inform families and children of current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses and attractions and to also find it of interest - I know from experience it’s never give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or joining in the competitions which we too early to start thinking about the next stage! run. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically based material whatsoever. We also undertake not to carry any advertising which We’ll be back in the week of 14 October covering the half we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best interests of young children. The opinions expressed in either the editorial term break - look out for spooky events, firework dates, our or advertisements within this publication are not necessarily those held by the editor or publisher. While we take great care with the compilation panto feature and lots more. of information within this magazine, neither the editor nor publisher will accept any liability for the accuracy of the editorial or advertising contained within the publication. We welcome listings being sent to us for inclusion in our What’s On section. Free listings are dependent on available space and we cannot guarantee to print all the listings we are sent. Please send them to listings@primarytimes.biz. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in the boroughs of Bexley, Bromley and Greenwich 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 South East London is operated under franchise licence.

Contents

inside this issue.... What’s On.................................6 Family Theatre........................ 10 Choosing your New School.... 15 Competitions............................... 35 Autumn Adventures.................36 Education News......................38 Out of School Activities...........40 All Your Own Work!.................47

Peter and the Primary Times Team This magazine is audited by BPA Worldwide 51,630 copies - August 2018.

The Laugh Out Loud Book Awards 2020 The Laugh Out Loud Book Awards (the Lollies) celebrate the best and funniest children’s books in the UK and Ireland, voted for by children.Voting is now open for the Lollies 2020 – it’s time to get reading and voting for your favourites! Michael Rosen, children’s novelist, poet and former Children’s Laureate, chaired the judging panel which selected the shortlist from nearly 120 titles submitted by children’s publishers. Having long championed humorous books for children, Michael told Primary Times, “Anyone around children looking for books to have them giggling and laughing over and over again, these 12 books will do the job. Funny books are so important because they draw you through, and you have a wonderful time and feel good. What could be better than that?” The Lollies are awarded in three categories: Best Laugh Out Loud Picture Book, Best Laugh Out Loud Book for 6-8 year olds and Best Laugh Out Loud Book for 9-13 year olds. The winning book in each category will be decided solely by children’s votes, with schools and parents encouraged to help kids get involved and voting via the Lollies website,

www.scholastic.co.uk/lollies, or via the Lollies PopJam channel. Voting is open to teachers and their pupils, parents and children. The Lollies website will be open for voting until 13 December 2019 at www.scholastic.co.uk/lollies. Teachers can cast up to 35 votes on behalf of their class for each category. The winning books will be announced in early 2020.

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Latest News

Childnet Film Competition

Oboe soloist, ensemble player & tutor. A student at the Royal College of Music offering private oboe tuition for all ages and standards. Available for concerts as both a soloist and ensemble player. For more information contact Izy on

izy.cheesman@rcm.ac.uk or 07557 302915.

Greenwich Swimming Teacher Voted One of Nation’s Best Linda King from Eltham has been voted the best swimming teacher in Greenwich winning the first round of a national competition. Linda, aged 59, has been at The Eltham Centre for the last 16 years teaching babies, adults and swimmers with a range of disabilities. She was nominated by a combination of pupils, parents and work colleagues all of whom were impressed by her dedication, enthusiasm and commitment to her job. Over 700 nominations were made nationwide and Linda will now go through to a regional semi-final. If successful, she will then go forward to a national judging day to take place at former Olympic venue the London Aquatics Centre in Stratford. The initiative is the brainchild of leisure operator and charitable social enterprise Better, which operates 7 leisure facilities in Greenwich and a total of more than 140 swimming pools across the UK. Better is the biggest provider of swimming lessons in the UK, employing over 1,400 swimming teachers and running more than 18,100 swimming lessons each week. The Swimming Teacher of the Year Award is also being supported by the Swimming Teacher’s Association (STA) and Speedo, representatives of whom will make up part of the final judging panel. Commenting on her win, Linda told Primary Times, “It’s fantastic to receive this award and I’m honoured to represent Greenwich in the next stage. Thank you to everyone for voting for me and hopefully I can bring the big award back to the borough.” Lyndsey Wright, Leisure Centre Manager at The Eltham Centre added, “Linda is a hugely dedicated and hardworking individual. She has inspired and encouraged a huge range of swimmers to enjoy and benefit from their time in the water. She is able to make even the most nervous swimmer feel comfortable and confident in the water, while encouraging the more able to progress and hone their skills.”

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

What’s On

What’s On Your family diary for September and October Ongoing Daily

Learn Inside the Heart of London, Tower Bridge, SE1 2UP

Hands-on workshops, guided tours. Discover the science, history, engineering and architecture behind the world-famous icon. New KS1 and SEN workshops now available. Book your school trip at towerbridge.org.uk/learning

Explore HMS Belfast, SE1 2JH

Explore this warship and see what life was like aboard this floating city as you weave your way through the bowels of the ship and climb up and down ladders across all 9 decks. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.iwm.org.uk

Character Encounters, National Maritime Museum, SE10 9NF 12noon, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. Meet a different character from history with their own fascinating story to tell about collections in the museum. An exciting performance and journey, bringing maritime history to life. For more information visit www.rmg.co.uk

Cutty Sark Characters, Cutty Sark, Greenwich, SE10 9HT

11am, 12noon, 1.30pm and 2.30pm. Hear Cutty Sark’s incredible stories brought to life by characters from the ship’s past. Meet Captain Woodget, Emma Louise Ray or Nannie the Witch. Each has an extraordinary story to tell. For more information visit www.rmg. co.uk

First Sat of the Month Big Family Press, South London Gallery, Peckham, SE5 8PR

2-5pm. Enjoy family fun as you learn how to riso print, share stories and make a DIY publication for the archive using a range of exciting materials sourced from the local area. Ages 5-12. For more details visit www.southlondongallery.org

Every Tuesday

Play! Brass, Drums and Cello, The Conservatoire, Blackheath, SE3 9RQ

Various times. Taught by a range of outstanding tutors, classes are offered for beginners who would like to learn one instrument for a full year. Children will be able to play pieces from memory, read rhythms and notes and have good knowledge of their instrument. For more details visit www. conservatoire.org.uk

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Until 7 Sep

Space Chase Summer Reading Challenge, Various Libraries across South London Read books, have fun and collect prizes! Ideal for children aged 4-11. For more details www. summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

Until 8 Sep

A Pirate’s Life for Me, The Historic Dockyard Chatham, ME4 4TE

A perfect day out for families to explore a variety of Pirate collections exploring the history and impact of Pirates in children’s culture through displays including toys, books, costumes, illustrations, games and photographs. For more details visit thedockyard.co.uk

Until 21 Sep

Maize Maze, Stanhill Farm, Dartford, DA2 7HD

The maze is ideal for the kids to run around and lose themselves for a couple of hours. This year’s theme is Crops & Robbers, a farm theme based on the age-old battle between scarecrows and crows. They also have a Mini Maze with a further ten game stations. For more details visit www. stanhillfarm.co.uk

Until 29 Sep

Underbelly Festival 2018, Southbank, SE1 8XX

The festival will bring the best in live circus, comedy, cabaret and family entertainment to the heart of London. There’s an amazing line-up of shows, international street food and a true festival atmosphere. To view a full programme of events and for tickets visit www.underbellyfestival. com

Highlight Tours: September, Red House, Bexleyheath, DA6 8JF (Selected dates) 11am, 11.30am, 12noon, 12.30pm, 1pm. This tour will share the highlights of Red House and the stories of the 5 years that William and Jane Morris spent there with their family and friends. Admission charges apply. To book visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/redhouse

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

Until 30 Sep

”

What If? Tower Bridge, SE1 2UP

10am-4pm. Part of the City of London’s architectural arts programme, Fantastic Feats: The Building of London, Tower Bridge is working with Bermondsey-based All Things Studio to create an outdoor Victorian diorama offering passers-by a glimpse into some of the alternative river crossing designs presented to the City of London’s special committee in 1876.Visit www. towerbridge.org.uk

Totally Thames Festival, Various Locations

Totally Thames brings the river to life with a month-long season of river-related events - art, music, open days, family fun, talks, walks and boats galore. For more details and to view the full programme of events visit www.totallythames.org

Discover London’s Wildlife Secret, The Recess at No.1, London Bridge, SE1 9BG

Part of Totally Thames. Join ZSL in a virtual reality journey beneath the surface of the Thames. Take the thrilling journey and discover the incredible wildlife whilst challenging your friends and family to see who can discover the most species. For more details visit www.totallythames. org

Until 27 Oct

Game Plan, Hall Place & Gardens, Bexley, DA5 1PQ

A fun exhibition about the history of board games with many to play. Go get your game face on. For more details visit www.hallplace.org.uk

Brick Wonders and Plonk Crazy Golf, Horniman Museum and Gardens, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ

In this exhibition discover amazing wonders from around the world made entirely from LEGO® bricks. Build your imagination at the interactive play areas, and don’t miss two special models of Horniman icons created especially for the show. Plonk are bringing back buckets of fun with their most exciting 9 hole family-friendly extravaganza. Charges apply. To book visit www.horniman. ac.uk

What to Look For In the Garden, Garden Museum, SE1 7LB

Take a wander down the garden path with Ladybird Books this summer, in a nostalgic exhibition celebrating the iconic illustrated books and the impact they made in teaching children about the natural world. The instantly recognisable artwork from the ‘golden age’ of Ladybird Books will be discovered by a whole new generation of children.Visit www. gardenmuseum.org.uk

September Thurs 5 Sep

Peckish Place Park, Beckenham Place Mansion, BR3 1SY

(Also 12 and 19 Sep) 4-10pm. Peckish is a family-friendly event at Beckenham Place Mansion featuring workshops inside alongside food, drinks and fun outdoors. For more details visit www.beckenhamplace.org

Thurs 5 - Sun 8 Sep

Craft Fair, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

Enjoy a new contemporary fair organised by Craft in Focus. Discover around 120 exhibitors from the UK’s finest designer makers and contemporary artists. Children aged 7+ can explore the Tudor Towers adventure playground with its own moat, drawbridge and three turrets. Charges apply. For more details visit www.hevercastle.co.uk

Thurs 5 – Sun 15 Sep

Butterfly Biosphere, Grosvenor Square, Mayfair, W1K 2HP

10am-7pm.Visitors will be invited to embrace a moment of Mayfair mindfulness by getting up-close with an abundance of the winged wonders, observing them hatching, feeding and fluttering among the trailing fruit and foliage-filled Insta-dream iridescent backdrop. For more details visit www.mayfairandbelgravia.com/ butterflies

Fri 6 Sep

Lambeth Palace Garden Open Day, SE1 7JU 12-3pm. An opportunity to enjoy the beautiful gardens of Lambeth Palace. Refreshments available in aid of Depaul International. Plants and honey on sale. Also visit the 17th century Great Hall. For more details call 020 7898 1200.

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 8...

Membership terms and conditions are available online at better.org.uk/terms. You must be 16+ years to join on certain memberships. Better is a registered trademark and trading name of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise and registered society under the Co-operative & Community Benefit & Societies Act 2014 registration no. 27793R. Registered office: Middlegate House, The Royal Arsenal, London, SE18 6SX. Inland Revenue Charity no. XR43398.

What’s On

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

September Vegan Vibes GMT, Greenwich Market, SE10 9HZ

6.30-10pm. Enjoy London’s best vegan street food stalls under one roof. With cool and tasty menus and delicious recipes you will be spoiled for choice with so many options to choose from. Fun for the whole family with live music too. For more details visit www.greenwichmarket. london

Sat 7 Sep

Downham Family Festival, Downham Playing Fields, BR1 4RL

From 11am. A family festival which brings everyone together within the community. The event will be packed with fun sporting activities for people and families to come and enjoy while creating an opportunity for charities, groups and organisations to positively outreach within the community. For more details call 07989 887 319.

Fri 6 – Sun 8 Sep

Sidcup Fringe, Various Locations in Sidcup

10am-4pm. Expect stalls, entertainment, a free cinema, face painting and more. Everyone from local community groups, schools and colleges, restaurateurs and businesses help to make this amazing, fun event so successful. For more details visit www.sidcuppartners.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

Guardians of the Planet: How to be an Eco-Hero Written by award-winning author Clive Gifford and illustrated by wildlife artist Jonathan Woodward, who specialises in a cut-paper collage style using recycled materials, Guardians of the Planet: How to be an Eco-Hero is printed in full colour using special environmentally-friendly waterless inks on FSC paper. It will include a foreword by ClientEarth trustee Brian Eno. Through a mix of compelling facts, creative activities and proactive tips, each chapter of the book focuses on a particular area of the environment, inspiring children to engage with environmental issues in everyday situations. From reusing clothes and composting food to reducing water waste and giving wildlife a helping hand, the unique ‘Guardian’ theme of the book provides everything a child needs to protect particular areas of the environment. For example, readers can find out how to care for the oceans as a ‘Keeper of the Coast’, plant trees as a ‘Friend of the Forests’ and learn all about recycling as a ‘Home Hero’. Guardians of the Planet: How to be an Eco-Hero by Clive Gifford and Jonathan Woodward is published by Buster Books on 26 September. All royalties from the sale of the book will be donated to ClientEarth, an environmental charity run by lawyers to protect the planet’s ecosystems and people. 8

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

“

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

”

SAMPLE Autumn, Greenwich Peninsula, SE10 0SQ

11am-7pm. This unique shopping experience celebrates the very best of emerging talent within the capital, with creatives from the worlds of fashion, design, homeware, and food and drinks trading their wares at one-off prices ahead of the new season. For details visit www. hemingwaydesign.co.uk

Fox Masks, Horniman Museum and Gardens, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ

(Also 28 Sep) 1.30-2.15pm, 2.453.30pm. Foxes live in the gardens and on the nature trail. Go along to the Armaments to make your own furry fox mask. Ages 3+. Charges apply. Art Makers takes place in the Education Centre. For more details and to book visit www.horniman.ac.uk

Sat 7 – Sun 8 Sep

Railway Weekends, The Historic Dockyard Chatham, ME4 4TE

Go along and witness locomotives which will be steaming through the site. Chatham Historic Dockyard Railway has just under 1 mile of line to operate demonstration trains and it’s the perfect photo opportunity to get up close to the railway. For more details visit thedockyard.co.uk

Cutty Sark Flotilla, Greenwich, SE10 9HT

11.30am, 2pm. Make your very own ship to add to a spectacular flotilla of masts and sails underneath the Cutty Sark. Work with a Boat Poet to write your own poem and listen out for poetry from students who took part in the Rivers of the World project. Ages 4+. Admission applies. For more details visit www.rmg.co.uk

Sun 8 Sep

Family Members, South London Gallery, Peckham, SE5 8PR

(Also 15 and 22 Sep) 2-4pm. Drop in on Sunday afternoons to discover an interactive family play space designed by artist Jemma Egan. Explore play objects themed around a robot pet dog. Sessions are designed for children aged 0-5. For more details visit www.southlondongallery.org

Indian Summer Food and Craft Market, Beckenham Place Mansion, BR3 1SY 10am-5pm. There will be modern Indian street food, delicious Indian vegan foods alongside some local street food chefs, cakes, Londonbased Indian rock band Karma Sheen, a drumming workshop and more. For more details visit www. beckenhamplace.org

Family Open Day, Thames Water Sewage Treatment Works, SE2 9AQ

10.30am-4pm. Go along and see one of the four engines, Prince Consort, in steam. Have a look at the buildings and engines, take in the exhibition and learn something of the Victorian sewer system which continues to serve the capital. Charges apply. For more details visit www.crossness. org.uk

Low Tide Walk – Tidefest, Creekside Discovery Centre, Deptford, SE8 4SA

11am-1pm. In celebration of Thames Tidefest, wade in a wild river and experience a different perspective of London history and urban wildlife. Ages 9+. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www. creeksidecentre.org.uk

The Waste-less Market, The Exchange, Erith, DA8 1RS

11am-3pm. A zero waste pop up market following our ethos of Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Encouraging the community to work towards a more sustainable way of living. For more details visit www.theexchangeerith. com/events

Tues 10 Sep

Florence and Hospitals, Florence Nightingale Museum, SE1 7EW

3.30pm. Florence studied the design of hospitals in Britain and across Europe. Bad design, she knew, would undermine the best nursing and medical care. Find out how she influenced hospital architecture across the world today in this themed talk. For details visit www.florencenightingale.co.uk

Crossness Engines Guided Tour, Thames Water Sewage Treatment Works, SE2 9AQ

11am-2pm. An opportunity to have a look at the buildings and engines, to take in the exhibition and learn something of the Victorian sewer system which continues to serve the capital. Charges apply. For more details visit www.crossness.org.uk

Fri 13 – Sun 15 Sep

Tower of London Food Festival, EC3N 4AB

Fri and Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-5pm. Discover London’s castle, street food, pop-up bards, chefs, artisan producers, music, gifts, kids’ entertainment, feast and fizz and much more. Buy tickets online to save 10%. For more details visit www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london

Sat 14 Sep

Mid-Autumn Moon Festival, National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, SE10 9NF

11am-4pm. Take part in performances, storytelling and creative activities to inspire you to consider your connection to the Moon. For more details visit www.rmg.co.uk/nationalmaritime-museum

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 44...

Foster for Bromley

Classes in Eltham, Shooters Hill & Royal Arsenal Riverside E: eltham@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 020 3865 8524 Group discounts for NCT members when 3+ people join together at the same time.

Go-Ride Bexley

Can YOU give them the family they need?

are looking for new members age 8 to 14!

www.bromley.gov.uk/ Saturday mornings 10:00-12:00 during term time.

fostering

0208 461 7701

Help a Child Smile Again Bromley Fostering Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

Meeting at various venues including Danson Park, Footscray Meadows, Dartford Heath and Gravesend Cyclopark Sessions are fun, enjoyable and run by fullyqualified British Cycling coaches. Fees: £5/year membership plus £30/term

woolwichcyclingclub.org.uk/go-ride click on Contact to message us or email Anne Wright on annew6005@gmail.com 2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Family Theatre

Mini Maestro Family Concerts at St Martin-in-theFields

This popular series of classical music events, enjoyed by children and parents alike, enters its thirteenth season this September, with monthly concerts up until March. Each concert is a smorgasbord of musical fun as they encourage the children to sit close to the orchestra, explore stories in the music, sing and clap along - and even conduct! Budding performers are invited to become Mini Maestro Musicians and play alongside the orchestra, and there’s always an opportunity to meet the friendly musicians at the end. There is also deep educational value in these concerts. Countless studies have shown that exposure to classical music at an early age, not to mention playing a musical instrument, is good for brain development. Indeed, at any age music is beneficial in all kinds of ways, from reducing stress to improving general mental health. Small wonder that so many parents say how enjoyable the concerts are for them as well! Go along to St Martin-in-the-Fields and join in a journey of discovery, imagination and inspiration on Saturdays 21 September and 19 October at 4.30pm. Concerts continue monthly through to March 2020.

LONDON’S FAVOURITE FAMILY CHRISTMAS MUSICAL RETURNS FOR A THIRD SENSATIONAL YEAR!

WHATSONSTAGE I BIRMINGHAM MAIL

as The Critic

WHAT’S ON BIRMINGHAM

MUSICAL THEATRE REVIEW

as Mr Poppy

11 – 29 DECEMBER

eventimapollo.com | eventim.co.uk

nativitythemusical.com

FULL STAR CASTING TO BE ANNOUNCED SEP 10 TH. CHECK WEBSITE FOR DETAILS. 10

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Returning to London for a third successive year, and starring TV and radio presenter Rylan Clark-Neal as ‘The Critic’, the smashhit Nativity! The Musical is back with more performances than ever before. Simon Lipkin reprises his critically acclaimed role as ‘Mr Poppy’ direct from starring in ‘Nativity Rocks’. Feel-good, funny and full of festive joy, the smash-hit musical was adapted for the stage by Debbie Isitt, the creator of the much-loved films. Featuring all of your favourite sing-a-long hits from the movies including Sparkle and Shine and Nazareth, this is the must-see show this Christmas!

Family Theatre

Nativity! The Musical

THE DAY I FELL INTO A BOOK SAT 28 & SUN 29 SEPTEMBER 11AM & 2PM

So book now and go along to the Eventim Apollo for some mayhem in Bethlehem! Further star casting to be announced! Nativity! The Musical runs at the Eventim Apollo, London from 11-29 December. For more information visit www. nativitythemusical.com

Autumn Shows at the Churchill Theatre

“Welcome to The Institute. We conduct experiments into the power of imaginations. We want to know what happens to your mind when you read. We want to get inside your heads. It is all perfectly safe. Trust us!” The Day I Fell Into A Book is an immersive storytelling adventure for families and school groups that explores the magic of reading and the vitality of young imaginations. Using binaural sound recordings, intricate lighting technology and projection, the audience is taken into a lost world of classic tales. The stories seep into the room and come alive all around you as you venture further into the deep recesses of your mind. It’s suitable for 8-12 year olds and their families.

I BELIEVE IN UNICORNS WED 9 & THU 10 OCTOBER 4.30PM & 6.30PM

I Believe In Unicorns is a much acclaimed intimate solo show set in a library full of books that hold more than stories within their pages. It is a tale of the power of books, and the bravery of a young boy called Tomas. Tomas hates reading and school, but his world is turned upside down the day he meets the Unicorn Lady in his local library... It’s an enchanting and interactive show, based on Michael Morpurgo’s bestselling book. Call the box office on 020 3285 6000, email tickets@ churchilltheatre.co.uk or visit www.churchilltheatre.co.uk to buy tickets.

BOX OFFICE

020 3285 6000

churchilltheatre.co.uk 2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Family Theatre

this story explores how people act individually and with others in extreme circumstances. For all ages.

20 Sep

explore the local area through music, dancing, drama and visual arts. All ages.

Omnibus Theatre Clapham

Errol’s Garden: WorkBox Office: 020 7498 4699 in-Progress Reading 24 – 27 Oct Errol dreams of having a Emily Rising garden of his own but turning

21 – 22 Sep

Emily wakes up one bright autumn morning to find that her feet can’t touch the ground, and no one can understand why. She’s not scared at all – it’s fun being high up. Ages 7-11.

We’re going on a Bear Hunt

Unicorn SE1

his rooftop into one is a huge task. He invites his neighbours and after a great community effort he has the garden he longs for. Ages 3+.

Bromley Little Theatre

Box Office: 03336 663 366 13 – 21 Sep

Goodnight Mr Tom

During World War II young William Beech is evacuated to the idyllic English countryside where he forges a heartwarming friendship with the elderly recluse, Tom Oakley.

Churchill Bromley

Box Office: 020 3285 6000 28 – 29 Sep

The Day I Fell into a Book

Using sound, intimate lighting and projection the show will take its audience into a lost world of classic tales. Bit by bit fiction will become reality and our imaginations will take over. Ages 8-12.

9 – 10 Oct

I Believe in Unicorns

Watch the bestselling children’s author Michael Morpurgo’s treasured story come to life. This intimate show is set in a library full of books that hold more than stories within their pages. Ages 6+.

24 Oct

The Spooky Magic Show

Join Magic Mr Steve and his faithful friend Rufus the dog as they discover the magical mysteries in a haunted attic. Ages 4+.

Greenwich Theatre Box Office: 020 8858 7755 22 - 23 Oct

The Scarecrow’s Wedding

This epic love story promises wit, drama and wedding bells! Packed with live music and 12

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

laughter, this is one hour’s magic that you and your children will never forget. Ages 3+.

24 – 25 Oct

Captain Flinn and the Pirate Dinosaurs: The Magic Cutlass

The children are whisked away for another fantastic adventure to a world of devious dinosaurs, deep sea dangers and smelly sausages. It’s all aboard, me hearties, for a real live pirate adventure. Ages 3+.

26 – 27 Oct

Rise and Fall

Explore an ecosystem of balloons: universes in miniature in this poetic and intriguing performance for young audiences about holding on and letting go. Ages 2+.

Albany Deptford

Box Office: 020 8692 4446 7 Sep

One Duck Down

A family go on an expedition of a lifetime, what will they find? Join them in this entrancing puppetry production with music and fun. Ages 2+.

13 Oct

Hocus Pocus

Voyage into the unknown in this dreamlike family show. Strange shapes, illuminated by light, performers and stage trickery will leave room for the imaginations of children to soar. For ages 7+.

The Bridge Theatre SE1 Box Office: 0843 208 1846 9 Nov

8 Sep

From sleeping upside-down on her ceiling to soaring over a starry-skied London, Emily’s adventure is just beginning. It’s fun being high up. But she’s not coming down… Ages 7+.

15 Sep

Audition

Combining contemporary circus, dance-theatre, fierce acrobatics and stunning visuals

A one-time only event featuring new short radio plays performed live with an onstage band. Ages 8-12.

18 Sep – 27 Oct

Anansi The Spider

In celebration of Black History Month, classic West African and Caribbean tales about Anansi, the original trickster and the master spinner of yarns are brought vividly to life. Ages 3-7.

26 Sep – 27 Oct

Maggot Moon

In a sinister 1950s Britain, the country is under the rule of the violent and oppressive Motherland. Dark Based on the novel by C government forces S Lewis, step through Enjoy are at work. Spies the wardrobe this and surveillance the show! winter into the are everywhere, magical kingdom And don’t and the truth of Narnia for the forget to say is difficult to most mystical you saw it in discern. Ages 9+. of adventures in Primary a faraway land. Stratford Times! Age 6+

Canada Water Culture Space

Underground hip-hop hero, Kenny Baraka - the Green Man needs your help to make the city green. In the Albany garden hear the Green Man’s story and music to help complete his mission. Ages 7+.

15 Minutes Live

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Billy is prepared to venture to the ends of the earth to win the affections of his sweetheart but unexpectedly is set the tremendous task of finding the elusive Rubber Ducks. Ages 3+.

Plot 17: Work-inProgress

Box Office: 020 7645 0560 8 Sep

Box Office: 020 8692 4446 22 – 23 Oct

Emily Rising

Deptford Lounge

Box Office: 020 8692 4446 1 Oct

On my way to Market

A show developed with the theme of ‘Loving London’ by Myatt Seniors and children from Myatt Garden School. It will

Circus

Box Office: 020 8279 1080 28 Sep

Peace at Last

Mr Bear can’t sleep. Mrs Bear is snoring. So he goes to sleep in Baby Bear’s room. But Baby Bear is pretending to be an aeroplane. So he goes to sleep in the living room. Ages 3-5.

26 Oct

Hocus Pocus

Brave children can voyage into the mysterious unknown following two adventurers on a fantastical journey through space. This hit dance show comes complete with vivid costumes and eerie props. 7+

Christmas Family Theatre

Family Shows this Christmas CIRCUS 1903 at the Southbank Centre

Experience all the thrills and daredevil entertainment of a turn-ofthe-century circus when CIRCUS 1903 returns to the Southbank Centre this Christmas. A range of dazzling new acts from around the globe will accompany favourites from last year, transporting audiences back to the wonders of the Golden Age of Circus. Undoubtedly the most charming puppet elephants on any stage, created by the award-winning team behind War Horse, Queenie and Peanut, will return, alongside Ringmaster Willy Whipsnade. New for 2019, the Wheel of Death is a ginormous rotating apparatus featuring large metal hoops at each end in and on which three performers will carry out eye-popping acrobatic skills whilst the wheel is rotating.

Featuring a wish-granting genie, an evil sorcerer and the timeless tale of the Twankey family, tickets are already on sale, and with further casting to be announced, audiences should hop aboard their flying carpets and head to the Churchill Theatre to be among the first to book for this year’s must-see, genie-us Bromley panto. Call the box office on 020 3285 6000, email tickets@ churchilltheatre.co.uk or visit www.churchilltheatre.co.uk to buy tickets. Photo credit: Nigel Hillier Photography

A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic

Last year’s magnificent, big-hearted smash-hit production of A Christmas Carol is coming back to The Old Vic this Christmas. Matthew Warchus’ production of Charles Dickens’ immortal classic has been joyously adapted for the London stage by Jack Thorne (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child) and stars Paterson Joseph (Peep Show, Babylon) as Ebenezer Scrooge. The Old Vic’s A Christmas Carol fills the auditorium to the brim with mince pies, music and merriment. The unique staging immerses the audience in this uplifting story. Time Out gave the production five stars and described it as ‘magical’. A Christmas Carol is recommended for ages 8+ and runs from 23 November to 18 January. Book your tickets online at www. oldvictheatre.com, call 03448 717 628 or visit The Old Vic box office in person.

Joined by strong men to contortionists, acrobats to musicians, knife throwers, high wire and much more, CIRCUS 1903 will amaze and captivate audiences of all ages. CIRCUS 1903 is in town for three weeks only. Book now at www.southbankcentre.co.uk to avoid disappointment!

Christopher Biggins to Play Widow Twankey in Churchill Aladdin

Christopher Biggins will be dusting off his frocks and leading the cast of this year’s spectacular Bromley pantomime, Aladdin, at the Churchill Theatre, with the magic beginning on Saturday 7 December. A mainstay of entertainment for a number of decades, Biggins made his pantomime debut aged just 17 in his home town of Salisbury before forging a highly successful career in show business. But it is pantomime for which Biggins is best-known and mostloved, entertaining thousands of festive theatregoers every year since he began his regular panto appearances in the mid80s. From Glasgow to Plymouth, Biggins has donned a host of outrageous frocks and had audiences in stitches across the UK ever since, starring alongside the likes of David Hasselhoff, Patsy Kensit, Simon Callow, Bonnie Langford, Cannon and Ball and even Basil Brush. Executive Producer Jonathan Kiley told Primary Times, “We’re delighted that Biggins will be starring as the iconic Widow Twankey in this year’s production of Aladdin. Not only is he pantomime royalty and a stalwart of the art form, he’s hilariously funny, a wonderful Dame and guaranteed to bring lots of laughter to the role and help make this season even more magical.” 14

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

‘It’s magical’ Time Out

A CHRISTMAS CAROL A version by

23 Nov 2019–19 Jan 2020 Tickets from £12 | For ages 8+

Choosing your New School with

A Pull Out and Keep Feature

The definitive guide to open days for that all important decision. Launcelot Road, Bromley BR1 5EB 020 8461 9240 | kreception@haaf.org.uk

JOIN US FOR AN OPEN EVENING IN SEPTEMBER Find out more inside and online www.habsknights.org.uk

Choosing your New School

Starting to look at secondary schools? We give you the lowdown on what to do. Applying for secondary school is one of the most important decisions you are going to make because it’s likely to have a huge impact on your child’s future, way beyond the school gates. There’s some essential ‘homework’ to be done before you make that all important choice and you must make sure you know the deadlines for applying via your local authority. For some, it won’t be an issue, as catchment area rules determine your first or other choices, decided by postcode or feeder school. However, for those of you who can choose, the task can seem a daunting one. To help you through the process, follow our tips for some forward planning and get the most out of a school open day.

How to Choose your Child’s Secondary School Choosing a secondary school may at first appear to be a daunting and complicated decision faced by parents, however it does not need to be. Although it’s important and with so many schools to choose from, with so many variables and specialisations, there are ways to make the process of finding the best school for your child easier. We have some thoughts, tips and advice that will help smooth the transition for you and your child.

Start early

The deadline for deciding which school your child wants to attend is 31 October, in the autumn term of Year 6, so ideally try to get yourself ahead of the game and start thinking in Year 5. This will help make the overall process smoother and less stressful. Many open days are at the beginning of the school year, so you will need to be organised by the end of the summer holidays in order to make sure you get to visit all the schools you want to see. It is especially important to start thinking early for schools that require an entrance exam, as their open days often take place before the summer break begins. If your child is already in Year 6, don’t panic! There is still nearly two months to the deadline.You may think you haven’t started preparing but you know your child – what they like, what they’re good at, the sort of atmosphere/stimulus they need - and that’s the perfect start.

Make a shortlist

The first thing to do is to narrow down the long list of available schools and create a shorter one with all the most suitable ones for your child. This will involve a fair bit of research for which you can use school websites or brochures. There are important factors to take into account here. Firstly, location - you need to think about how your child will get to school, what modes of transport will be needed and how important distance from the school is to you. Sometimes catchment areas mean places are only offered if the student is within a certain distance from the school, so make sure to look at the admissions criteria carefully. Some schools specialise in different subjects, so if your child has a particular interest then this can also be taken into account when making up the list.You should end up with a list of schools that you and your child are interested in and which have the criteria your child is eligible for. This part the process can take a while, but being thorough will help you gain a good idea of which schools you want to visit.

Visit the schools

This is one of the most important steps in deciding which secondary school to pick and is designed to help you to gain an insight into what the school is actually like.You can find out the details of open days, open mornings and/or evenings for the schools on your shortlist either from the many included in our tables in this magazine or from the school websites. Make sure you check dates and times, as they can change. If you visit too many schools it may become confusing and sometimes too much choice isn’t helpful. So stick to your shortlist and only visit these ones.Visiting schools with your child can help you to see if they would feel comfortable there and also allows you the opportunity to find out things that weren’t apparent from your earlier research. A school may appear to tick all the boxes when you research it for your shortlist, but when you visit you may realise it’s not the right school for your child.You may never spot this unless you visit. It can be really useful to take other people with you to the open events, such as someone who already attends the school or a family member or good friend. You might need to be aware of potential bias, especially if they have previous knowledge of the school. However, it can often help to have other people’s opinions to balance out your own. Alternatively, you may decide to visit with just your child in order to avoid too many distractions. When visiting multiple schools it can be helpful to go with the same people each time to help with the final overall comparisons.

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Open mornings are also incredibly helpful as you can see what the school is like during a normal day when students are in lessons.You will hopefully be able to glance into some of the classrooms to see what a typical lesson looks like.You may find things are very different from what you saw at the opening evening. Visiting schools will help to narrow down the list even more and judge which one is right for your child. It may also help to make a pros and cons list of each school you visit so you can remember what you and your child liked and disliked.You may even want to visit the school in both Year 5 and Year 6.

is for your child to be happy. However, you may put more emphasis on different aspects.Your child may be interested in being with their friends from primary school, or being somewhere they think they’ll feel comfortable with not too much homework and the best football/ netball team.You may want somewhere that will stretch your child, be thinking forward to the next stage after secondary school and with the best pastoral care. At the end of the day you’re going to have to agree something between you and it may involve compromise.

Choosing your New School

Open evenings are useful events at which you can ask questions, explore the subjects offered and see what facilities the school has available. Make sure to go to the head teacher talks, take a tour around the school and try talk to some of the current students to find out what they enjoy about it. A school’s building may influence how you feel about it, also the extra-curricular activities on offer, the teaching style and general environment.

Moving from primary school where your child has been a big fish in a little pond to secondary school where they become one of the little ones again is a big step. Check what the school does to help with this transition. Some schools have trial days or afternoons or special summer camps or they ask Year 7s to start a day early before the rest of the school in order to get them settled. Finally, don’t panic! Have fun exploring the different schools and what they have to offer. There are many schools that are unique and can give your child an individual experience through their secondary school journey. Remember that you must return your application form to your local education authority by Thursday 31 October 2019. They may not accept late applications.

Diary Dates • You must apply for a secondary school place by 31 October.

• 1st March 2020 is National Offer Day.

Parents can log onto their local authority’s website to see their offer, after which letters will be posted out.

• You must apply for a place at a school, even if it’s linked to your child’s current primary school.

Other things to consider

The admissions criteria will determine whether it is realistic for your child to be allocated a place at a specific school. Along with the catchment area, schools may have requirements such as academic performance (especially for grammar schools) and faith schools often require you to be in a certain parish. If the child has a sibling already at the school, you may find they will be offered a place anyway, assuming they have also passed any entry exams. Private schools, of course, have a fee structure, but don’t let this put you off. If your heart is set on one of these schools then there are often alternative ways to gain a place. For example many private schools offer bursaries or scholarships if the child excels in a subject or hobby. You may be tempted to look at school rankings and Ofsted reports. These can be useful to give more information about exam results and the teaching quality of the school. However, do remember that some schools may be better for different subjects and being lower in the ranking does not mean the school is necessarily worse. Rankings are also vulnerable to change and depend on many factors. Recommendations and what family and friends have to say about their experiences with certain schools can be very useful in your decisionmaking.You may be more drawn to a school if you know someone who has first-hand experience with it and who can help you with some of your questions.

This October, Mary’s Meals is inviting you to reach out to children living in poverty by supporting the #PorridgeSmiles campaign

Every child is different

To request your free Porridge Smiles party pack, please visit www.worldporridgeday.com

One school may be right for one child but not for another, so make sure to judge it independently. Some of your child’s friends may pick a school for the same reasons you did not pick it! If your child has siblings and you are interested in sending them to the same school, it would be useful to visit again with the younger child so that they can properly explore the school, see if it is right for them and feel involved in the decision-making. Don’t forget that there are at least two of you involved in this decision, both you and your child. What you both want in the end

Mary’s Meals

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Choosing your New School

Outstanding Education at Harris Girls’ Academy Bromley Harris Girls’ Academy Bromley is a thriving secondary school for girls in New Beckenham, with a co-educational Sixth Form. Judged as delivering an ‘outstanding’ education across all inspected categories, they have the highest expectations of all students and are incredibly proud of the progress they make during their time at the academy. Harris aim to send inquisitive, confident and compassionate young women out into the world. Students are stretched and developed across the national curriculum, but also through courses such as Latin, Classical Civilisation and a wide selection of creative arts-based subjects. They are also a hub school for the teaching of Mandarin and have state-of-the-art science, art and sports facilities. The academy offer a balanced approach to education through attentive pastoral support and an engaging range of extracurricular opportunities and trips. Academic lectures, debating club, dance and robotics club are just some of the activities that girls can get involved in. Their motto is ‘All Can: All Will’ and this represents the belief that their students will leave as confident, inquisitive and compassionate young women who can and will succeed in their chosen paths. To find out more about what Harris Girls’ Academy Bromley can offer your daughter, you can attend their Open Sessions in September. For more information, please visit www. harrisbromley.org.uk.

St Columba’s – Valuing Children as Individuals

St Columba’s is a Catholic Comprehensive Academy. They are a welcoming, vibrant and happy community dedicated to faith, learning and achievement and they welcome boys of all academic and religious backgrounds. The school has a tradition of high standards and high expectations. As a caring Christian community they work in partnership with parents to enable students to achieve their very best. Gospel values inform all aspects of school life and learning - in the school community

everyone has the right to be happy, safe and achieve. The Academy is proud to be an inclusive Catholic school that welcomes students from all faiths or none. St Columba’s have high standards of behaviour which was confirmed when in January Ofsted returned and recognised that St Columba’s remained a Good school. They said “Warm and positive relationships are a strong feature of your school.You have continued to maintain high standards of behaviour since the last inspection.” Students are set by ability so that each individual is challenged to achieve their best. To support their successful transition, Year 7 students have their own playground. As a comprehensive school, every child really does matter and St Columba’s help each individual to grow spiritually, academically and socially. They are proud to be a school where every child is known and valued as an individual. For more information, please visit www. st-columbas.bexley.sch.uk.

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Knights Academy

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Knights Academy is a vibrant, diverse 3-18 school community with an ethos that lies in their values of academic excellence and high expectations, ensuring that every child achieves their full potential. Their happy and caring environment nurtures pupils so that they mature into well-rounded, healthy young people with a passion for learning. They are a thriving and growing community and consequently they have an exciting building expansion programme for the sixth form which should be completed in November 2019 so that their pupils continue to learn in stateof-the-art facilities. Excellent teaching and an engaging and stretching curriculum, supported by a highly skilled pastoral team enable pupils to achieve academic success. Through their involvement in enrichment programmes, such as debating, cadets, Duke of Edinburgh and book club, Knights Academy pupils develop confidence, resilience and mutual respect for others. The academy focuses on each child as an individual to draw out their strengths and talents, adding value to their spiritual, moral and cultural development and well-being.

OPEN EVENING Thursday 26th September 2019: 5.00pm – 8.00pm

OPEN MORNINGS Monday 23 rd to Wednesday 25 th September 2019, Friday 27 th September 2019: 9.00am – 10.00am

Tel: 020 8778 5917 18

www.harrisbromley.org.uk

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Lennard Road, Beckenham BR3 1QR

Choosing your New School

Music, sport and developing student leadership are all important skills and qualities that Haberdashers’ Aske’s Knights’ pupils value and excel in through the excellent tuition, coaching and facilities. HAKA pupils are local and national champions in a wealth of arenas including athletics, football and business enterprise, presenting annually at Haberdashers’ Hall in London. Part of the wider Haberdashers’ family of schools, their pupils are able to experience unique opportunities, an innovative careers programme and financial bursaries resulting in the majority of pupils studying at university and securing high quality apprenticeships across the country. They are a school that is built on an ethos of tradition and innovation, respect and responsibility, collaboration and inclusion. It is these moral values that the academy instills in their pupils which enables them to contribute and gain from their school community and the communities in which they live. HAKA values the important relationships, collaborations and partnership between staff, pupils and parents, and they look forward to welcoming you to their Open Evening on Wednesday 25 September at 5pm. For more information, please visit www.habsknights.org.uk.

Open mornings throughout October Check website for details

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Choosing your New School

Colfe’s School – Preparing Pupils for Real Life

Colfe’s School has been educating the girls and boys of South East London for over twenty years. Originally founded by Abraham Colfe in 1652, the school’s long history as a boys’ school changed forty years ago with the introduction of girls to the sixth form and for the past twenty years it has been co-educational with girls throughout the school from ages 3-18. Through its awardwinning pastoral care programmes, the school makes a particular focus on preparing pupils for real life, not just for exams. They develop the personal and social skills pupils will need in their home life and their careers, from teamwork and mentoring to budgeting and planning. Headmaster, Richard Russell, told Primary Times, “Real life is coeducational and we think school should be too. Colfe’s is a school that replicates society at large and prepares its pupils to make the most of their lives in the future. Although we have been fully co-educational for 20 years we are not complacent. The co-education committee, comprising both teachers and pupils, meets regularly with the belief that it is possible, within the controlled environment of the school, to confront the sexism and discrimination which continues to thrive in the less advanced corners of society.” Colfe’s has always been a local school, reflecting the local mix of families and occupations. Meanstested scholarships support local children at entry to the senior school, including the fully-funded Leathersellers’ Scholarships Programme for the Sixth Form. 60% of GCSE results are A* or A. At A-level over 80% are A*, A or B, 50% are A* or A and 80% of leavers enter their firstchoice university, including Russell Group institutions and Oxbridge. To book your place on a forthcoming Open Day or to find out more, please visit www.colfes.com.

Blackfen School - Progressive and Vibrant

Blackfen School is a progressive and vibrant learning community that focuses on raising the aspirations and releasing the potential of every young person in their care. They aim to ensure that students leave Blackfen school as positive, happy and fulfilled young people who are equipped with the necessary skills, qualifications and experiences to make them successful in their future lives. They believe everything is possible and can be achieved through hard work, determination and perseverance. Blackfen’s young people have a growth mindset and their intelligence is not fixed. This culture underpins their aspirational ethos. The school’s beliefs are demonstrated through a learning community that thrives on innovative and challenging teaching, complemented by frequent visits and enrichment activities. Students participate in extra-curricular activities ranging from music, drama, Book Club and the Duke of Edinburgh awards to life changing trips to, for example, New York, Poland, Barcelona, Rome and their partner school in India. The welfare programme is characterised by strong personal and academic support, as well as the development of students’ leadership skills. Frequent rewards and celebrations for high-level attainment and progress are welcomed by students and their parents. The success of Blackfen students is underpinned by the support of parents working in partnership with staff. At Blackfen their passion is that young people enjoy their success in school, become mature, responsible, independent, outgoing and disciplined young adults and that aspiring to find and release personal talent becomes a life-long accomplishment. The school look forward to welcoming prospective Year 6 students and their families to one of their Open Events which will help parents to find out more about what Blackfen do. For more information, please visit www. blackfenschoolforgirls.co.uk.

Whole School Open Morning

Saturday 21 September 9am -12 noon

Sixth Form Open Evening

Thursday 10 October 6pm - 8pm

Book your place online today

YEARS

EBRATIN G

Saturday 9 November 9am -12 noon

Senior School Open Morning

YEARS

www.colfes.com 20 primary times.indd 21 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

05/07/2019 11:26

Chislehurst School for Girls is a successful and vibrant school where they ensure that girls work hard and fulfil their potential. They provide an excellent, all round education for 11-19 year olds, whilst providing a safe, caring, co-operative and stimulating environment which helps to develop and prepare every student for adult life. As the local school of choice for more able students, your daughter will have access to a grammar school style curriculum, through Chislehurst’s moreable stream. The more-able stream will develop students’ resilience and determination through teaching activities and boost their employability and leadership skills through targeted enhancement provision for each year group. The school was deemed to be ‘Good’ by Ofsted in January 2018. They said, “Pupils’ personal development is well supported by the variety of enrichment activities that the school offers alongside personal, social, health and economic education. Pupils are well prepared for life after school and understand how to keep themselves safe and healthy.” This was evidenced by Chislehurst’s GCSE results, where Year 11 students scored well above the national average in English, Mathematics and many other subjects. As an Outstanding International School, Chislehurst’s global links ensure that students have wider opportunities for travel and worldwide experiences, including across Europe, Asia and America. The school warmly welcome any prospective parents and students to attend their open events to see what Chislehurst School for Girls can offer. The school’s Open Evening and Morning will take place on Thursday 19 September from 6–9pm and on Tuesday 8 October from 10.30am– 12.15pm. This will be an excellent opportunity to view the school’s stateof-the-art facilities, visit subject departments and discuss courses with various members of staff. For more information, please email office@ chsfg.co.uk or visit www.chislehurstschoolforgirls.co.uk.

Open Events 2019 Open Evening

Thursday 12th September 2019 5:30 to 8:00pm with Head Teacher talks at 5:30pm; 6:15pm & 7:00pm

Open Mornings

Monday 16th September 2019– Head Teacher talk & tour at 9:00am Tuesday 17th September 2019 – Head Teacher talk & tour at 9:00am Wednesday 25th September 2019– Head Teacher talk & tour at 9:00am Thursday 26th September 2019 – Head Teacher talk & tour at 9:00am Monday 7th October 2019 – Head Teacher talk & tour at 9:00am

Happy and successful community

Choosing your New School

Fulfil your Potential at Chislehurst School for Girls

Ongoing challenge in a caring environment

Head Teacher: Matthew Brown Blackfen School for Girls, Blackfen Road, Sidcup, Kent, DA15 9NU 020 8303 1887 • admin@blackfen.bexley.sch.uk • www.blackfenschoolforgrls.co.uk

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Choosing your New School

Leigh Academy Blackheath – Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Release your Potential at Plumstead Manor

Leigh Academy Blackheath (LAB), part of Leigh Academies Trust, is an 11-18 comprehensive secondary school which opened in the Royal Borough of Greenwich in September 2018. LAB will provide 180 student places in each year group from 7-11, and 250 in the sixth form. The academy will reach full capacity in September 2022 and move into its brand new building in September 2020. LAB is a place where tradition meets innovation and potential is realised within a nurturing community. Their purposeful and multidisciplined learning environment creates a climate where students not only acquire knowledge but also master the essential problem solving and critical skills needed to succeed and lead in the 21st Century. The school’s community is collaborative and together they ensure students develop into powerful citizens for a digital future. The Academy’s values of Respect, Integrity, Ambition, Scholarship and Resilience permeate everything they do and their small school, human-scale education model ensures the educational experience for every student is personalised. You can attend one of LAB’s Open Events during September and October. For more information, please visit www. leighacademyblackheath.org.uk.

Open Events

Judged by Ofsted (May 2018) as being a ‘good school’, the core values of success, harmony, excellence and justice enable every young person at Plumstead Manor to release their full potential throughout their seven year secondary school journey. Support is personalised for students, giving each of them access to a broad and balanced curriculum across academic and vocational pathways, enhanced by a wealth of enrichment opportunities. The school has a dedicated team of staff responsible for making sure that students are settled, stretched and challenged from the moment they join the school and is the basis on which they open up an extensive range of opportunities for them to learn, grow and succeed. Regular curriculum, parents evenings and forums give parents the opportunity to work in partnership with teachers to support their child’s learning and steer the future of the school. Facilities at the school include a new performing arts theatre complex with music, dance and drama studios. All buildings have been refurbished and are open to students from 8am-5pm offering a wide variety of sports, performing arts and special interest clubs to further cultivate the highest expectations for academic scholarship, outstanding behaviour and personal development. For more information, please visit www.plumsteadmanor.com.

Where tradition meets innovation and potential is realised within a nurturing community

We invite you to attend one of our open events during September and October 2019. Venue: Charlton House, Charlton Road, London SE7 8RE

Wednesday 18th September Presentations at 5pm and 6.30pm

Saturday 12th October Presentations at 10am and 11am

For further information please visit: www.leighacademyblackheath.org.uk 22

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Primary Times were able to speak to some Year 7 pupils at Bexley Grammar School who wanted to give some advice to prospective Year 6 pupils. They said, “It felt really strange, wandering around the school hallways of Bexley Grammar on my first day. Being surrounded by almost totally different people in a new class was something I had anticipated, but hadn’t necessarily looked forward to. But by the end of the school day, I realized secondary school wasn’t as scary as I imagined.” Another said, “I think that my transition from primary school to secondary school has been truly phenomenal. If I showed myself a year ago what I am doing now, I would never have believed it.” One pupil told us, “I had no-one from my primary school in my form, yet I soon found out that I used to play cricket with two girls in my form and they’re now two of my best friends. I also found out that no matter how scary older pupils may seem, they’re harmless and actually very helpful as you learn to find your way around.” They also talk about extra-curricular activities, “This year I joined two choirs, netball, football, rounders, basketball, tennis, table-tennis and I was in the end of year production ‘Sister Act’. This has involved mixing with children from other forms and year groups and has widened my friendship group even more.” They finished with, “The most important things you can do are make new friends, get involved and enjoy yourself.” For a flavour of this rich school life, you can browse Bexley Grammar’s weekly newsletters at www.bexleygs.co.uk.

OPEN MORNING

BEXLEY GRAMMAR SCHOOL

ESTANTIAE STUDERE PRA

IB WORLD SCHOOL

TO STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE

New Year 7 Open Events 2019

Choosing your New School

Some Advice from Bexley Grammar School Students

Open Mornings

Tuesday 8th October Thursday 17th October 8.45am - 10.45am

The Headteacher will speak at 10am.

Open Evening

Thursday 17th October

5.00pm - 8.00pm The Headteacher will speak at 5.15pm, 6.15pm and 7.15pm.

NO BOOKING REQUIRED

Saturday 28th September 2019, 9.00 -12.00

Creating a culture of high expectations A leading independent co-educational day and boarding school oﬀering high academic standards, excellent pastoral care and a wide extra-curricular programme within a supportive Christian environment. Co-education: Juniors 3–11, Seniors 11–16, Sixth Form 16-18 Perry Street, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 6LR T: 020 8467 0256

www.farringtons.org.uk Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

“Explore our website, visit us in person and discover what makes BGS so special...” Headteacher Mr S Elphick Bexley Grammar School Danson Lane, Welling DA16 2BL Tel 020 8304 8538 www.bexleygs.co.uk enquiries@bexleygs.co.uk

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Choosing your New School

St Paul’s Academy – Specialising in Sport and Enterprise St Paul’s Academy is unique in that it welcomes students from the Catholic faith and from the local neighbourhood. They are an inclusive academy that celebrates all aspects of diversity. Care and compassion are central to the way they treat one another and as a community, they have high expectations of all that their young people can achieve. The Academy’s specialisms are Sport and Enterprise. Their entrepreneurial young people donate all the money they raise to charity. As a community they have raised over £215,000 for a wide range of charities since becoming an Academy. Their other specialism, Sport, is also intrinsic to the success of the school. Sporting activities build confidence and leadership in young people and teach that when you strive, you grow in resilience and you can succeed. St Paul’s aim for the best results from examinations, with many subjects’ results well above the national average, in traditional subjects as well vocational. The school even create opportunities for some students to sit written examinations early because they are ready to do so. The academy aim to make opportunities for all students regardless of ability and although they have so many high achievers (with many students going to Russell Group universities or Oxbridge), they are a truly inclusive school. This can also be seen in the wide variety of activities that take place beyond the classroom which is an integral part of all children becoming thoughtful and responsible citizens.

Harris Academy Beckenham

Primary Times were able to speak to Sam Rispoli, Head of the Academy. He told us, “Harris Academy Beckenham is proud to have been oversubscribed year after year, and this is in part to our unique ethos and excellent standing in our local community. At the heart of what we do are our 4Rs - Resilience, Reflectiveness, Resourcefulness and Reciprocity. We believe that these learning attitudes will service our students well as they develop into adulthood as they are attributes which not only secure an excellent academic outcome, but enhance the interpersonal skills and sense of community responsibility that is crucial to be an effective and empathetic citizen. We pride ourselves on offering an imaginative and challenging learning experience for our students, offering opportunities which are unique and memorable. Harnessing students’ creativity is an essential part of learning, and our innovation days scheduled throughout the year provide invaluable occasions for students to thrive. We take every opportunity to use London as a resource with trips to theatres, museums and specialist events, and have annual trips to Europe, including a ski trip and a sports tour. Our enrichment curriculum is second to none, with a plethora of sporting opportunities in addition to some rare interests such as fencing and archery. Our academic results at GCSE and A Level speak for themselves and demonstrate the outstanding work of our staff and students to be as aspirational and ambitious as they can. We are significantly higher than national against all key indicators, and aim to keep on improving our levels of excellence every year. We look forward to welcoming you to our open evening on

Ofsted Inspection: June 2017

‘Your inclusive approach and attention to pupils’ welfare run through all aspects of the school. With support from the senior leadership team, you have ensured that the school continues to be a positive learning environment where pupils are well cared for.’ ‘Teachers use assessment information to plan activities which provide pupils with stretch and challenge, particularly the most able.’ This is an extremely welcoming place. Students are a great credit to themselves and to the Academy. They are polite, friendly and helpful, and they behave superbly. They attend very regularly because they enjoy school and value their education.’ ‘Students are taught well by dedicated teachers who are committed to their interests. As a result, they achieve well and leave with very good examination results.’

St Paul’s Academy is a mixed 11 - 16 Academy, sponsored by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Southwark. ‘St Paul’s is an outstanding Catholic School’ Denominational Inspection 2018 51 Finchale Road, Abbey Wood SE2 9PX 020 8311 3868 www.stpaulsacademy.org.uk Follow us on twitter @SPA_Greenwich

OPEN EVENTS 2019 Saturday 28th September................. 9.00am – 12.00pm............... Principal’s presentation 9.15am and 10.30am Thursday 3rd October.................... 10.00am – 11.15am............... Tours start at 10.00am. Last entry 10.30am Thursday 10th October.................. 10.00am – 11.15am............... Principal’s presentation at 10.45am Thursday 17th October.................. 10.00am – 11.15am 24

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Coopers School - Developing Caring Young People

Coopers School has high expectations and aspirations for its whole community where all members are recognised, valued and respected. They develop confident, enquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people so they may help to create a better and more harmonious world through intercultural understanding and mutual respect. All members of the community are supported to become empathetic, creative, resilient, respectful and curious learners so they develop into responsible members of a global society. In March 2018, OFSTED confirmed that Coopers is a good school. They said “Coopers is a well led school and the leadership team have maintained the good quality of education in the school and the passion shown by all staff for the welfare of each individual pupil results in a very caring and supportive environment where pupils feel safe and happy.” Coopers offers a calm, well ordered, disciplined and yet caring environment where staff have high expectations of every student. They have over a hundred experienced, talented subject specialist teachers with a commitment to ensuring that every student exceeds their potential. There are excellent mentoring and coaching facilities and all students are challenged to reach their full potential and to widen their horizons. A wide range of extra-curricular and enrichment programmes for students are available, including a Football Academy working with Bromley Town Football Club. For more information about Coopers, please visit www.coopersschool.com.

YE A R 6 - O P E N E V E N I N G W E D N E S D AY 18 T H S E P T E M B E R 2019 5 - 8 P M

Harris Academy Beckenham has been judged OUTSTANDING in every category (Ofsted, July 2017)

“Pupils’ progress is outstanding across a range of subjects and for all groups of pupils. Pupils’ attainment is well above the national average” (Ofsted, July 2017)

Harris Academy Beckenham Manor Way, Beckenham BR3 2SJ

Choosing your New School

Wednesday 18 September where we will be able to share with you further details about our Academy, our successes and the enriching and rewarding learning opportunities we can offer your son or daughter at Harris Academy Beckenham.” For more information, please visit www. harrisbeckenham.org.uk.

T: 020 8650 8694 E: info@harrisbeckenham.org.uk www.harrisbeckenham.org.uk @HarrisBeckenham

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Choosing your New School

A Stimulating Junior Curriculum at Bishop Challoner Primary Times were able to speak to Ms Alison Barker, Head of KS1 and KS2 at Bishop Challoner. She told us, “Our Junior School offers a safe and happy environment where children love to learn. Pupils are confident, enthusiastic and keen to make progress. Our families are supportive and visitors are always given a warm welcome. Our highly skilled teachers are dedicated to pupils learning and equally committed to their welfare. Teachers are fully involved in pastoral care and all are involved with extra-curricular activities. Pupils can participate in a wide range of different sports and a great many after school clubs such as ballet, fencing, Taekwondo and chess. We offer a wide and balanced curriculum that challenges and excites. Children throughout the Junior School have specialist teachers for music, sport, modern foreign languages and IT. In Years 5 and 6 we introduce Latin and pupils in Year 6 have specialist teaching in maths and science as we prepare them for the transition into the senior school. Again, this is made as seamless as possible as pupils are already familiar with the senior school staff, school layout and expectations. Likewise staff will know the pupils well and have thorough records and assessment data that will be ongoing as they progress towards external exams and Sixth Form. You are very welcome to come and visit us. We would be delighted to show you just what makes Bishop Challoner such a wonderful place to learn.” For more information, please visit www.bishopchallonerschool.com.

King Henry School - A Vibrant Centre of Learning

At King Henry School, their vision is to be an outstanding school, with a total commitment to improving the lives of young people by serving the local community as a vibrant centre of learning, known for their academic excellence and unrelenting determination for everyone to succeed. The school aim to maximise success by ensuring that all students are provided with rich, high quality educational opportunities within their culture of high aspiration where achievement, hard work and determination are recognised and celebrated. Committed to providing excellence in education and opportunities for all, King Henry have high expectations of their students. Their central aim is to enable each young person to achieve great things in whatever he or she undertakes. The school prides itself on continuously striving to offer the highest quality teaching and learning experiences. Central to their strong pastoral system are the values of Politeness, Respect, Kindness, Courage, Ambition and Resilience. They are a community where young people are confident, articulate, responsible, learning focused and successful. They provide a secure, friendly and happy environment in which all students can develop as individuals. Headteacher, Zara Tippey’s, aim is to ensure that each student’s experience is as enjoyable and rewarding as possible. She believes in 26

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

the basics of reading, writing, communicating and mathematics and will relentlessly pursue excellence in punctuality, behaviour, uniform and respect for one another. For more information about King Henry School, please visit www. kinghenry.org.uk.

Blackheath High School Students STEAM Ahead

Blackheath High School GDST has achieved its best ever GCSE results. With GCSE’s now graded on a scale of one to nine, the school achieved 99% 9-4 (A*-C), with 67% 9-7(A*-A) and 41% 9-8 (A*). This represents a 14% increase in the number of 8/9 (A*) grades over the past 5 years. The school was especially pleased with the phenomenal results achieved in both Art and Science, with 90% 7-9 (A-A*) and 81% 7-9 (A-A*) in the subjects respectively. This comes after a recent push from the school to focus not just on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) subjects, but STEAM (A for Arts) to ensure students full creative potential is achieved. The results provide further evidence of how students have been able to take full advantage of the school’s recent £18 million redevelopment, which brought with it specialist state-of-the-art Science laboratories and teaching studios for Art, Design & Technology and Music, as well as expansive gallery and exhibition spaces. Student Mia Dyson had her

Bishop Challoner School Shortlands

A Catholic Independent School for Girls & Boys 3-18 Years

OPEN MORNING

Saturday 28th September 9.00am -1.00pm Nursery ● Junior ● Senior ● Sixth Form Welcoming all faiths

www.bishopchallonerschool.com to register Follow us on Instagram - @primarytimesse

Diary Dates • You must apply for a secondary school place by 31 October. • 1st March 2020 is National Offer Day. Parents can log onto their local authority’s website to see their offer, after which letters will be posted out. • You must apply for a place at a school, even if it’s linked to your child’s current primary school.

AIM HIGHER

Choosing your New School

GCSE Artwork exhibited at the Royal Academy of Arts earlier this summer, and achieved grades 9 and 8 (A*/A*) in Sciences and A*/A* in Science and Art. Dilmi Gunatillake achieved straight 8s and 9s (A*s) in 11 subjects and will be going on to study Biology, Chemistry and Maths at Blackheath High Sixth Form. She told Primary Times, “My parents and I are over the moon! I’m planning to study medicine and potentially become a Psychiatrist. I’m really fascinated about the brain, how it works, how much we don’t know and all that is there to discover.” Headteacher at Blackheath High, Mrs Carol Chandler-Thompson added, “We strive to put each of our girls in the very best position to maximise their potential in both an academic and creative sense. However, it is still up to the girls themselves to work hard and take full advantage of the resources around them.”

The all-new Blackheath High School, shortlisted for Best Independent Girls’ School

Open Morning – 12 October Book online at www.blackheathhighschool.gdst.net

Scholarships available for gifted girls at 11+ and 16+ entrance

We invite you to one of our open events during September and October 2019

Open evening Thursday 26th September 2019 6pm - 8pm

Open mornings* Tuesday 1st, Thursday 3rd, Wednesday 9th & Friday 11th October 9am – 11am (*by appointment only)

Address: King Henry School, Avenue Road, Erith, Kent, DA8 3BN. Tel: 01322 348231 Email: info@kinghenry.org.uk Web: www.kinghenry.org.uk

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Choosing your New School

Inspire, Learn and Achieve at The Halley Academy

The Halley Academy, proud to be part of the Leigh Academies Trust, is a vibrant and exciting place of opportunity. Guided by their inclusive values of Respect, Achievement, Collaboration, Integrity and Resilience, they have high expectations in all aspects of daily life at their academy. With its sister schools, Stationers’ Crown Woods Academy and Leigh Academy Blackheath, The Halley Academy is a proud partner in the South East London Cluster of LAT. Your child’s success and happiness are Halley Academy’s number one priority. They are a caring community where everyone feels safe, valued and empowered to explore, experience and achieve. Their vision is to shape proud, articulate, confident, independent learners equipped to take their place in wider society. The curriculum pathways allow for all students to make better than expected progress with talented and committed teachers. The academy are now an IB World School and are developing an innovative curriculum including the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme which welcomes the holistic development of each learner and celebrates all subject areas, and the International Baccalaureate Careers Related Programme at Post 16. At The Halley Academy your child will join one of three small schools each with a dedicated team of staff to support their wellbeing. Balancing their Historic England Grade II listed status with significant investment from the Trust, RBG and support from the Tallow Chandlers, The Halley Academy will specialise in STEM, (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths), in a refurbished environment. For more information, please visit www.thehalleyacademy.org.uk.

Babington House – Admitting Boys to the Senior School

Babington House School in Chislehurst is the top small independent school in England for A level results in 2018 and third in the UK with 68% A* and A grades. It is an excellent school achieving amazing results and inspiring pupils from the Sixth Form right down to the Nursery. Babington’s Early Years provision is top of the Bromley Borough league table for the third year running. This year’s GCSE results were amazing with all the students achieving the grades they needed to move on into Babington’s Sixth Form and other prestigious schools. Emily was overjoyed to receive so many 9 grades saying “there are only 1000 grade 9s in the county and I’ve got five of them!” The coveted grade 9 is the equivalent of a double starred A, and 7 equates to an A grade. All Babington pupils exceeded their targets this year and the overall percentages reflect a huge amount on individual endeavour. Babington continues to grow and develop. In September there will be over 400 pupils from age 3-18 years. The school is co-educational throughout - the first boys will be admitted to the Senior School in Year 7 at the start of this term. Being a small school has big advantages. It has high standards of behaviour, dress and conduct, benefiting from no more than 20 pupils in a class and a strong sense of community. Babington is committed to outstanding music, drama, sport and the arts and offers a wealth of extra-curricular opportunities. Headmaster, Tim Lello, told Primary Times, “Our commitment to provide an academic and well-rounded education with small class sizes, tailored to the needs of our pupils is really paying off, our pupils and parents are happy and we are achieving excellent results.”For more information about Babington, please visit www.babingtonhouse.com.

Now an IB World School

Open Mornings - 9am to 11am •

Tuesday 17 September, Wednesday 18 September and Thursday 19 September

Open Evening - 6pm to 8.30pm •

OPEN EVENTS TOGETHER WE INSPIRE, LEARN AND ACHIEVE

Tuesday 17 September with the Principal speaking at 6.30pm and 7.30pm

For further information please email admin@thehalleyacademy.org.uk or visit the website: www.thehalleyacademy.org.uk or call us on 020 8516 7977

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Independent Day School from 3 to 18 years Grange Drive, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 5ES Headmaster: Mr T Lello, MA, FRSA, NPQH

Babington is in the top 50 schools in the country for A level results (GOV.UK League Tables 2018)

g Children

At Townley Grammar School, their motto is to strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield. Ofsted have noted about Townley Grammar: • Excellent care and support for all students • The enthusiasm of all teachers is demonstrable - it enables pupils to learn exceptionally well and secure outstanding outcomes • Articulate and caring young citizens • The richest possible choice of extra-curricular activities • A culture of achievement and enjoyment permeates the academy • Teachers demonstrate exceptional subject knowledge and passionately enthuse their pupils with a love of learning • Lessons that are rich in subject content, challenging and fun • Pupils are tolerant, open-minded and form excellent relationships • Behaviour is impeccable Every student at Townley has the opportunity to be extraordinary through developing academic, physical and emotional confidence. This means having the courage to take risks and learn from their mistakes. Students can learn in an environment where their peers and their parents value education for its own sake, where teachers understand how to challenge and where the range of extracurricular activities opens up new worlds and possibilities. Townley Grammar School has been recognised with multiple awards including being Highly Commended by the DFE in the National Character Education Awards and recipients of the Mayor of London’s Excellence in Music Award. Townley students have been winners of the National Articulation Award, the Jack Petchey Speak Out Challenge Grand Final and the Bexley Young Musician of the Year Award to name but a few. With impressive facilities that include 17 acres with Sports Fields, a full working Theatre, Dance and Drama studios, a recording studio and now a state of the art Computing facility and new dining space, Townley has so much to offer. For more information, please visit www.townleygrammar.org.uk.

Babington House School

Open Morning

Inspiring Teac hers, Inspirin

Be Extraordinary at Townley Grammar School

Choosing your New School

02949_Babington_Primary_Times_AD_Layout 1 29/07/2019 22:36 Page 1

Saturday, 12th October 2019 9.00am - 12 noon

Open evening

Open mornings

Tuesday 15th October 2019. 6pm - 8.30pm.

Wednesday 9th & Thursday 17th October 2019. 9.30am - 11.30am.

Townley Grammar School, Townley Road, Bexleyheath, Kent DA6 7AB Tel: 020 8304 8311 | Email: admin@townleygrammar.org.uk Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Choosing your New School

Guy’s Urban Challenge

Have you got what it takes to be an Urban Legend? This unique urban triathlon has something for everyone. Run, spin and climb your way to the top of Europe’s tallest hospital building, Guy’s Tower, on Saturday 28 September. Grown-ups can choose the Classic Triathlon or take it a stretch further and choose the Ultra Triathlon. Take on the challenge as an individual or as part of a team, you can even split the challenge across a relay team. Why not make it a family day out? They even have a Junior Triathlon. Everyone aged 8-15 can take part. Run 1km, choose between 25 burpees, star jumps or hula hoops and climb 29 floors to the top of Guy’s Hospital Tower! All finishers receive a goody bag, commemorative t-shirt and medal and can join a post-race party on the 29th floor of Guy’s Tower. There will be an all-day festival with lots of family and children’s activities at the start site too. So go along and support your adult and junior triathletes. Even if you don’t feel you can take part in the triathlon, you could still fulfil and important role. They are seeking volunteers for the event to help with marshalling, cheering and signposting. They’re looking for over 100 volunteers – more than they’ve had before. All funds raised will go to your choice of Guy’s & St Thomas’, Evelina London Children’s Hospital or Guy’s Cancer. Find out more at www.supportgstt.org.uk/get-involved.

Sport Relief: It’s Game On Sport Relief will be racing back to your school from 9-13 March next year, rallying schools across the country to get involved in this epic fundraising extravaganza. Sport Relief is the perfect way to get the whole school active and have fun, all whilst raising life-changing cash for good causes across the globe. From running a mile to setting daily challenges, what your school does is entirely up to you. Sport Relief is not just a brilliant way to get everyone involved in fundraising, it also gives pupils a chance to engage with the world around them and learn how vital funds are supporting amazing projects, both at home in the UK and internationally. To get limbered up for a week of brilliant activities and events, teachers can pre-order a free fundraising pack now, tailored specifically by Sport Relief and Primary Times for primary schools. The pack is bursting with tips, tricks, ideas and goodies, all designed to make fundraising as stress-free as possible. Sport Relief also offers curriculum-linked learning resources and videos which can be used in class to help raise awareness of some of the biggest problems faced by people across the world. To get your hands on these brilliant materials, simply head to www. sportrelief.com/primarytimes, and your pack will land in your pigeonhole in January. Michelle Golan, from Childs Hill Primary School in North London, sees Sport Relief as a great way for her pupils to learn about the wider world. She told Primary Times, “Our school believes it is extremely important to support Sport Relief. Our pupils always have lots of fun and work together to help improve the lives of those less fortunate than us. The materials produced by Sport Relief are really useful and

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

inspiring, and help our pupils to see how their contributions can help change the lives of others forever.” Money raised by schools and nurseries for Sport Relief will help people living unimaginably tough lives on your doorstep in the UK and across the world’s poorest countries. So put the date, Friday 13 March, in the diary and order your free Fundraising Event Pack today at www.sportrelief.com/primarytimes

St Edmund’s School Canterbury is a leading independent school that has a strong reputation for the performing arts and all-round excellence. The Head, Edward O’Connor, says, “Creativity is at the heart of our holistic educational philosophy and permeates through all that we do – our academic curriculum, co-curricular activities, enrichment programme, and pastoral care.” Music is woven into every aspect of school life. Each child has the opportunity to explore their musical capabilities in the classroom by learning a musical instrument to be part of an ensemble. St Edmund’s is proud to educate the choristers of Canterbury Cathedral who bring a wealth of musical talent to the school. The annual St Edmund’s Festival held at the end of the academic year clearly demonstrates the school’s commitment to the arts with world-class professionals performing and working alongside the pupils giving them unique opportunities to immerse themselves in the world of performing arts. The school is delighted to announce it has been shortlisted for the Independent School of the Year Awards 2019 in the category of “Performing Arts”. The judges will make their decision on the winner in October, but to be shortlisted is a tremendous achievement and a fitting tribute to the extraordinary work done by pupils and staff in music and drama across school from Pre-Prep to Sixth Form.

We inspire creativity through a lifelong love of learning and nurture original thinkers who have a desire to make a difference.

Choosing your New School

Creativity is at the Heart of St Edmund’s School

Open Morning Saturday 28th September, 9am Book a place online: www.stedmunds.org.uk

OPEN MORNING Saturday 5th October 2019, 9.30am - 1.00pm www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net L E A R N I N G

A N D

A C H I E V E M E N T S

A R E

E X C E P T I O N A L

( I S I

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

2 0 1 6 )

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

www.wellingschool-tkat.org

www.trinity.bexley.sch.uk

www.townleygrammar.org.uk

www.st-columbas.bexley.sch.uk

www.stccg.co.uk

www.ktc-tkat.org

www.hurstmere.org.uk

www.harrisgarrard.org.uk

www.harrisfalconwood.org.uk

www.haaf.org.uk

www.kinghenry.org.uk

www.cleevepark-tkat.org

www.csgrammar.com

www.blackfenschoolforgirls.co.uk

www.bexleyheathacademy.org

www.bexleygs.co.uk

www.beths.bexley.sch.uk

Bexley Website

Open Morn Sat 21 Sept 9-12noon. Open Morn Tours Tue 24,Wed 25 Sept & Tue 1,Thur 10 Oct 9-10am.

Open Day Sat 12 Oct 10am-2pm, talks at 10.15am and 12 noon. Open Morn Wed 16 Oct, Thur 17 Oct 8.40-10.45am, talk at 10am.

Open Morn Wed 9 Oct, Thur 17 Oct 9.30-11.30am. Open Eve Tues 15 Oct 5-8.30pm.

Open Day Sat 5 Oct 9.30am - 12.30pm. Open Morn Tours Wed 9, Thur 10, Tue 15, Wed 16 & Thur 17 Oct at 9.30am.

Open Eve Thur 19 Sept at 6pm. Open Morn Tue 24, Thur 26 Sept & Mon 7, Wed 9 Oct.

Open Morn Tue 1, Wed 9 & Thur 17 Oct 9-10am. Open day Sat 5 Oct 9.30-12.30pm.

Open Morn Sat 28 Sept 10am-12pm, Mon 30 Sept, Tues 1 Oct, Mon 7 Oct-Wed 9 Oct, Mon 14 Oct-Wed 16 Oct 9am. Booking essential.

Open Eve Tue 1 Oct 5.30-8pm. Open Morn Thur 3, Thur 10 & Thur 17 Oct 9.30-10.30am

Open Morn Mon 23, Tue 24 Sept 9-10.45am (no admission after 9.45am). Open Eve Mon 23 Sept 5-8pm (no admission after 7.30pm).

Open Morn Wed 18, Wed 25 Sept & Wed 2 Oct. Open Eve Wed 2 Oct 4-7pm.

Open Eve Thur 26 Sept 6-8pm. Open Morn Tue 1, Thur 3, Wed 9 & Fri 11 Oct 9-11am, by appointment only.

Open Morn Tue 1, Thur 3, Wed 9 & Fri 11 Oct 9-10.15am. Open Day Sat 5 Oct 9.30-12.30pm.

Open Morn Fri 11 & Mon 11 Oct 9-11am. Open Eve Wed 16 Oct 5.30-8pm. Guided Tour dates 7,8,9,10,15,16,17 29 & 30 Oct, bookable from Fri 4 Oct.

Open Eve Thur 12 Sept 5.30 - 8pm, Head talks 5.30pm, 6.15pm & 7pm. Open Morn Mon 16, Tues 17, Wed 25, Thurs 26 Sept and Mon 7 Oct at 9am.

Open Eve Tues 24 Sept 5.30-8pm. Open Morn Wed 25 & Thur 26 Sept 9.30-12 noon.

Open Morn Tues 8 Oct, Thur 17 Oct 8.45-10.45am, Head talk at 10am. Open Eve Thur 17 Oct 5-8pm, Head talk at 5.15pm, 6.15pm & 7.15pm.

Open Morn Wed 9 Oct, Tues 15 Oct, Tues 29 Oct 9.15-11.15am, Sat 12 Oct 9.30am-12.30pm.

Date/ Time of Open Day

Jail Lane, Biggin Hill, TN16 3AU

Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst, BR7 6HE

Chislehurst School for Girls

Open Event Sat 28 Sept. Open Eve Thur 19 Sept 6-9pm, Head presentations at 6.30pm & 7.30pm. Open Morn Tues 8 Oct 10.30am-12.15pm, Head Presentation at 10.50am.

www.chislehurstschoolforgirls. co.uk

Open Day Sat 12 Oct.

Open Eve Thur 26 Sept 5.30-8pm.

Open Morn Sat 5 Oct 9.30-1pm.

See school website for details.

Open Event Wed 25 Sept.

Open Morn Sat 28 Sept 9am-1pm.

Open Morn Sat 12 Oct 9am-12 noon. Register at www.babbingtonhouse.com

www.cdarwin.com

www.bwsboys.org

www.bwsgirls.org

www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net

office@bp.lewisham.sch.uk.co.uk

www.bishopjustus.bromley.sch.uk

www.bishopchallonerschool.com

Dates correct at time of going to press. You are strongly recommended to contact the schools to confirm details

020 8300 3156

01959 574 043

020 8781 7066

020 8695 2100

020 8315 8130

020 8460 3546

020 8467 5537

www.babingtonhouse.com

Bromley - continued on next page Website Date/ Time of Open Day

Charles Darwin School

Tel

020 8304 8531

020 8467 2280

Elsa Road, Welling, DA16 1LB

Welling School

01322 441 371

Bullers Wood School for Boys

Erith Road, Belvedere, DA17 6HT

Trinity C of E School, Belvedere

020 8304 8311

020 8467 2280

Townley Road, Bexleyheath, DA6 7AB

Townley Grammar School For Girls

01322 553 236

St Hugh’s Playing Fields, St Nicolas Ln, Chislehurst, BR7 5LJ

Halcot Avenue, Bexleyheath, DA6 7QB

St Columba’s Catholic Boys School

01322 556 333

St Nicolas Ln, Chislehurst, BR7 5LJ

Watling Street, Bexleyheath, DA6 7QJ

St Catherine’s Catholic School

020 8300 7112

Bullers Wood School

Sevenoaks Way, Sidcup DA14 5AA

Kemnal Technology College

020 8300 5665

Blackbrook Lane, Bromley, BR1 2TW

Hurst Road, Sidcup, DA15 9AW

Hurstmere School

020 8320 4800

Bromley High School

Yarnton Way, Erith, DA18 4DW

Harris Garrard Academy

020 8304 4916

Winlaton Road, Bromley, BR1 5PZ

The Green, Welling, DA16 2PE

Harris Academy Falconwood

01322 402 180

Magpie Hall Lane, Bromley, BR2 8HZ

Iron Mill Lane, Crayford, DA1 4RS

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Crayford Academy

01322 348 231

Bonus Pastor Catholic College

Avenue Road, Erith, DA8 3BN

King Henry School

020 8302 6418

Bishop Justus C of E School

Bexley Lane, Sidcup, DA14 4JN

Cleeve Park School

020 8302 6511

Bromley Road, Shortlands, BR2 0BS

Hurst Road, Sidcup, DA15 9AG

Chislehurst & Sidcup Grammar School

020 8303 1887

Grange Drive, Chislehurst, BR7 5ES

Blackfen Road, Sidcup, DA15 9NU

Blackfen School for Girls

020 8303 5696

Bishop Challoner School

Woolwich Road, Bexleyheath, DA6 7DA

Bexleyheath Academy

020 8304 8538

Babington House

Danson Lane, Welling, DA16 2BL

Bexley Grammar School

01322 556 538

Address

Hartford Road, Bexley, DA5 1NE

Beths Grammar School

Tel

Name

Address

Name

South East London Open Day Directory 2019

School Open Day Tables

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

145 Bexley Road, SE9 2PT

Hutchins Road, SE28 8AT

Address

St Thomas’ Hill, Canterbury, CT2 8HU

Stationers’ Crown Woods Academy

Woolwich Polytechnic Girls’ School

Name

St Edmund’s School Canterbury

01227 475 600

Tel

020 8310 7000

020 8850 7678

020 8850 6700

020 8311 3868

020 3260 3333

020 8104 0888

020 8516 7555

020 8516 7977

020 8859 2843

0208 852 2283

020 8853 2929

01689 856 050

01689 853 626

020 8663 4199

020 8639 4700

020 8462 2767

020 8778 5917

01689 819 219

020 3948 3864

www.stedmunds.org.uk

Other Website

www.woolwichpolygirls.com

www.scwa.org.uk

www.stmcomprehensive.org

www.stpaulsacademy.org.uk

www.plumsteadmanor.com

www.leighacademyblackheath.org.uk

www.thejohnroan.greenwich.sch.uk

www.thehalleyacademy.org.uk

www.elthamhill.com

www.colfes.com

www.blackheathhighschool.gdst.net

Greenwich Website

www.ravensbourne.bromley.sch.uk

www.ravenswood.bromley.sch.uk

www.newsteadwood.co.uk

www.lpgs.bromley.sch.uk

www.lpbs.org.uk

www.hayes.bromley.sch.uk

www.harrisbromley.org.uk

www.harrisorpington.org.uk

www.harrisbeckenham.org.uk

www.haaf.org.uk

www.farringtons.org.uk

www.edenparkhigh.com

www.darrickwood.bromley.sch.uk

www.coopersschool.com

Open Day Sat 28 Sept at 9am.

Date/ Time of Open Day

Open Morn Tue 1, Tue 8 & Wed 9 Oct 9.30-11.30am. Open Eve Wed 2 & Thur 3 Oct 5.30-7.30pm. Please check back nearer the time for the confirmed venue.

Open Morn Sat 14 Sept 10am-2pm, Principal’s presentation at 10.15am, 11.15am, 12.15pm. Tues 17 Sept 8.45-10.30am, Principal’s presentation at 10am. Open Eve Wed 16 Oct 3.30-5pm.

Open Eve Wed 25 Sept 6-9pm. Presentation at 6.15pm, 7.15pm and 8.15pm.

Open Day Sat 28 Sept 9am-12noon, Principal’s presentation 9.15 & 10.30am. Open Morn Thur 3, Thur 10 & Thur 17 Oct from 10am (last entry 10.30am), Principal’s presentation at 10.45am.

Open Morn every Tues during term time 9-10.30am, by appointment. Open Eve Thur 3 Oct 5-8pm.

Open Eve Wed 18 Sept, presentations at 5pm & 6.30pm. Open Day Sat 12 Oct , presentations at 10am & 11am.

Open Morn Thur 19 Sept, Thur 26 Sept, Thur 3 Oct, Thur 10 Oct 9.15-10.15am. Open Eve Wed 2 Oct 6-8.30pm.

Open Morn Tue 17-Thur 19 Sept 9-11am. Open Eve Tue 17 Sept 6-8.30pm (Presentations 6.30 & 7.30pm).

Open Day Sat 21 Sept, Wed 25 Sept, Tues 1 Oct, Thur 10 Oct

Whole School Open Morn Sat 21 Sept 9-12noon. Senior School Open Morn 9 Nov 9-12noon.

Open Morn Sat 12 Oct. Book on school website.

Date/ Time of Open Day

Open Event Thur 19 Sept.

Open Day Sat 21 Sept.

Open Morn Sat 21 Sept 9.30am-12.30pm.

Open Event Thur 3 Oct.

Open Event Thur 3 Oct at 6.15pm.

Open Morn Sat 5 Oct 9am-12pm. Principal’s speeches at 9.30am, 10.15am, 11am.

Open Eve Thur 26 Sept 5-8pm. Head’s presentations at 5.15pm, 6pm, 6.45pm and 7.30pm. Open Morn Mon 23 Sept-Wed 25 Sept & Fri 27 Sept 9-10am.

Open Event Thur 19 Sept.

Open Eve Wed 18 Sept 5-8pm.

Open Eve Wed 25 Sept 5pm.

Open Morn Sat 28 Sept 9-12 noon.

Open Event Thur 26 Sept.

Open Event Wed 2 Oct.

Open Morn Sat 21 Sept 9am-12.30pm.

School Open Day Tables

Dates correct at time of going to press. You are strongly recommended to contact the schools to confirm details

Footscray Road, SE9 2SU

St Thomas More Catholic Comprehensive

Old Mill Road, SE18 1QF

Plumstead Manor School

Finchale Road, Abbey Wood, SE2 9PX

Charlton House, Charlton Road, SE7 8RE

Leigh Academy Blackheath

St Paul’s Academy

Maze Hill, SE3 7UD

Hayes Lane, Bromley, BR2 9EH

Ravensbourne School, The

John Roan, The

Oakley Road, Bromley, BR2 8HP

Ravens Wood School

Corelli Road, SE3 8EP

Avebury Road, Orpington, BR6 9SA

Newstead Wood School

Eltham Hill, SE9 5EE

Hawksbrook Ln, Beckenham, BR3 3BE

Langley Park School for Girls

Halley Academy, The

Hawksbrook Ln, Beckenham, BR3 3BP

Langley Park School for Boys

Eltham Hill School

West Common Road, Bromley, BR2 7DB

Hayes School

Horn Park Lane, SE12 8AW

Lennard Road, Beckenham, BR3 1QR

Harris Girls’ Academy Bromley

Colfe’s School

Tel

Tintagel Road, Orpington, BR5 4LG

Harris Academy Orpington

Address

020 8460 0083

Manor Way, Beckenham, BR3 3SJ

Harris Academy Beckenham

2 Vanbrugh Park, SE3 7AG

020 8650 8694

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Knights Academy Launcelot Road, Bromley, BR1 5EB

Name

020 8461 9240

Perry Street, Chislehurst, BR7 6LR

Farringtons School

Blackheath High School

020 8467 0256

c/o Ravensbourne Sch, Hayes Ln, Bromley, BR2 9EH

Eden Park High School

01689 850 271

020 8467 3263

Hawkwood Lane, Chislehurst, BR7 5PS

Lovibonds Avenue, Orpington, BR6 8ER

Darrick Wood School

Bromley - continued from previous page Tel Website Date/ Time of Open Day

Coopers School

Address

Name

lown’s Party for Pigs Word Search D B N T P J V S H O

F R B R I M J O M M

Y I Z O N D G N T R

T S S T SW T T K S N V I P O H N U M P

G L I E O K L D R I

I E N R W H B G G G

P C E S B A O D L L

S N O U T R A O B E

T A O H S T G I L T

Can you find all these words in the word search? Pig, Trotters, Oink, Sow, Shoat Pink Mudbath, Swine, Snout, Grunt, Pigsty, Piglet, Gilt, Omnivore, Hog, Boar, Bristle

Spot the Difference In Picture B there is a branch missing, the roof ridge tiles are white, the wolf has an extra eye, the hammer has been replaced with a screwdriver and there is a sun there. How many Pigs do you see? 12

Katie

A n s w e r s

Spot 5 Differences

A What do you call a pig who does karate? Porkchop!

How do pigs write top secret messages? With invisible oink!

What do you call a pig thief?

What is a pig’s favourite colour?

A hamburglar!

Ma-hog-any!

Can you draw a picture or write a poem about anything to do with your favourite farm animal.

Why should you never tell a pig a secret? Because they love to squeal!

What do you call it when you cross a dinosaur and a pig? Jurassic pork!

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 27 September 2019. Good Luck! 34

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Draw a Picture and Win a Spellbinding Prize at The Historic Dockyard Chatham Magic returns to The Historic Dockyard Chatham this half term from the 19-27 October. Walk among toadstools, fairies and all things mystical in the Enchanted Dockyard. Inside the No.1 Smithery, you will find a magical garden to explore, but first, take part in some free craft activities to take the magic home with you. Create your own magical butterfly and cast enchanting spells with your own decorated wand before having them brought to life through digital story-telling with the Enchanted Dockyard fairy. Then, get creative with pumpkin carving, where wizards will be on hand to help with your designs and magic the mess away. Primary Times is giving away a magical prize to one lucky reader, which includes a family annual pass to The Historic Dockyard Chatham, a free main meal and drink for four people, a goody bag of enchanted gifts, and your winning artwork to be put on display. For the chance to win, draw a picture of a magical garden or butterfly and send it to the address or email below.

Win a Magical Trip to Disney on Ice

Competitions

Competitions Grab your Mickey Mouse ears and get ready for the ultimate Disney experience as Disney on Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic at the O2 Arena, London. See all your favourite characters including Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Disney Princes and Princesses and the cast of Frozen, as they bring fourteen of Disney’s most classic stories and over thirty songs to life. Marvel at a cast of over fifty in full colourful costume, performing ice-dancing routines that will leave you captivated and create exciting memories to last a lifetime. To be in with a chance of winning one of two family tickets (2 adults, 2 children) to see this spectacular show, simply answer the following question, ‘What is the name of Princess Anna’s snowman friend in Disney’s Frozen?’ To enter, see details below.

Win and Set Your Imagination Free From Paramount Home Entertainment comes Wonder Park, an exciting new animated adventure. Follow June, a young girl with a big imagination who makes an incredible discovery – the amusement park of her dreams has come to life. Filled with the world’s wildest rides operated by fun-loving animals like Gus the Beaver and the Wonder Chimps, the excitement never ends. But when trouble hits, June and her misfit team of furry friends must begin an unforgettable journey to save the park. Actionpacked and brimming with laughs, Wonder Park is a ride the whole family will love. Out now on Blu-ray and DVD. Primary Times is giving 5 readers the chance to win a prize that includes a DVD copy of Wonder Park, a mini toy car, a Wonder Park magnet and poster, and a June plush doll. To win, answer this question, ‘What month comes after June?’ To enter, see details below

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 27 September 2019. If you are entering more than one competition you can put all entries in the same envelope.

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Autumn Adventures Fun Days Out with the Family Butterfly Biosphere Hatches in Grosvenor Square

Greenwich and Bexley Hospice Big Bike Ride

The Community Hospice Big Bike Ride is the ideal day out for families and friends wanting to enjoy the tranquillity of cycling along the River Thames. What better way to escape the hustle and bustle of our busy lives? The 28-mile mostly riverside route stretches from Erith to Greenwich alongside the River Thames. It showcases all the wonderful open spaces, views of the city and the huge variety of wildlife that surrounds us. The Big Bike Ride is popular with families thanks to very few roads, the flat route and the choice of start points and distances to suit all ages and abilities. In its 25th special anniversary year, the hospice would love to sign up as many Local Heroes as possible to get on their bikes and celebrate this wonderful achievement with pedal power. Greenwich and Bexley Community Hospice hopes that you can join them on Sunday 6 October for a fantastic day of cycling. For more information about the Big Bike Ride and to register, go to www. communityhospice.org.uk, email fundraising@gbch.org.uk or call 020 8319 9230.

From 5 – 15 September, Londoners will be invited to step inside Butterfly Biosphere: Pleasures of the Nectar Dome, the world’s first Lepidopterarium, combining butterfly ecology, nectar tasting and an abundance of photo opportunities with the butterflies. On arrival, visitors will be invited to try a sip of nectar made using fruit nectar from flowering trees and say cheers to butterflies, the unsung heroes of pollination. This will be followed by an experiential walk to the Biosphere where a Wildlife Guardian will guide guests into the enchanting world of butterflies, advising them on how best to appreciate the fascinating creatures. Guests will also receive a pair of rainbow spectacles that will enhance their butterfly vision and be able to sit on a throne for a selfie that makes them look like they have a pair of brightly-coloured wings. The experience will also highlight the fact that London’s butterfly population is in trouble - having declined by 76% over the last four decades - and help capital dwellers learn how to help their winged friends. Guests will be greeted by a wildlife guardian, be able to donate to butterfly conservation initiatives, watch butterflies hatch and develop a newfound appreciation of their essential role in nature and how to take a crucial role in ensuring their future survival. Butterfly Biosphere: Pleasures of the Nectar Dome will be open from Thursday 5 September – Sunday 15 September from 10am–7pm in Grosvenor Square, Mayfair. Entry is free. For more information, please visit www.mayfairandbelgravia.com.

Family traditions made at Red House Visit Red House this autumn for seasonal produce, creative activities and our annual Hog's Hole Apple Weekend. These are the places that make us. nationaltrust.org.uk/red-house

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

London’s hottest new creative neighbourhood, Greenwich Peninsula, is gearing up to host Hemingway Design’s SAMPLE Autumn this September. SAMPLE Autumn is a one-day pop-up market that celebrates the start of autumn, bringing together fresh produce and modern craftsmanship on Greenwich Peninsula. Take a look at the new season’s trends in fashion, homewares, food and design, whilst supporting sustainability, small-scale enterprise, slow fashion and locally sourced goods with 100 traders from across London. This year, you and your little ones can get creative with workshops from Let’s Make Art and BraidBox. Find contemporary and local brands including Cuemars, Kitty Clogs, Luna Stationery, Fronte and Worshipful Spectacles in the designer-maker section. Elan Skincare presents award-winning ethical beauty products from Joanna Silva, Inca Starzinsky offers bold jewellery designs and Makeda Matheson sells luxurious cashmere womenswear. Discover fashion, beauty, art, design and homewares all while tucking into wood-fired pizza, stocking up on food produce from local suppliers and listening to top tunes from the SAMPLE DJs. Enter the market for free on Saturday 7 September from 11am-7pm.Visit the website at www.hemingwaydesign.co.uk/sample, or email sample@ hemingwaydesign.co.uk for more information.

There’s Something Strange Coming to Bexleyheath

“Who you gonna call? Ghostbusters!” On 25 and 26 October, youngsters visiting the Bexleyheath Shopping Centre will get the opportunity to become real ghostbusters as they recreate a new version of the iconic movie with themselves as members of the cast.

SATURDAY 7 TH SEPTEMBER FREE ENTRY

GREENWICH PENINSULA 11AM—7PM

Using a special script, costumes and props, children will discover the tricks and treats of movie making, with the final mini movies premiering on the shopping centre’s Facebook page. Manager of The Broadway, Rai Holdstock told Primary Times, “Children love Halloween and we are confident they will enjoy dressing up and role playing a scene from the Ghostbusters movie.” There is also a Ghost Hunt around the centre running from 19 - 31 October. Trail sheets are available from Smiggle and the first 200 children finding all 5 ghosts will receive a free gift. Places are limited so go to the Bexleyheath Shopping Centre’s Facebook page to reserve a place using the link to the Eventbrite booking site. Sessions are at 11am, 1pm and 3pm and children must be over 5 years old.Visit www.broadwayshoppingcentre.com for more information.

Autumn Festivities at Red House

Kick off autumn at Red House with the annual Hog’s Hole Apple Weekend. Red House was once nestled amongst 80 ancient apple trees in the orchard known as Hog’s Hole, while the trees are gone a few younger replacements remind us of the once rolling Kentish landscape. On Saturday 5 to Sunday 6 October help the Red House team to celebrate this fruity legacy with heritage apples to try and buy, hot cider to sip on, and an apple press on the go. There’ll be activities, talks and tours, and local crafts for sale to keep you busy. Make it a fun-filled family tradition to visit Red House for this annual event. The fun continues with the Goblin Market trail for October Half Term between Saturday 19 and Sunday 27 October. Discover the unusual creatures and luscious fruits that inspired Christina Rossetti’s iconic poem scattered around Red House. Whether you enjoy poetry or drawing, let your imagination run wild and piece the mystical scene back together. Its harvest season for the Red House Kitchen Garden too - there’ll be sweet treats made from the Red House apple and lots of fresh produce being harvested throughout the autumn for lunch in the Scullery Café.

Autumn Adventures

Sample Something Different on Greenwich Peninsula

LITTLE HORRORS

WE RECREATE

Friday 25 & Saturday 26 October We recreate the film with children in the cast*. Sessions at 11am, 1pm and 3pm

There will be costumes, props and a chance to discover the tricks and treats of movie making in our interactive sessions.

INDEPENDENT DESIGNERS, MAKERS, ARTISANS, MUSIC & STREET FOOD INDEPENDENT DESIGNERS, MAKERS, ARTISANS, MUSIC & STREET FOOD GREENWICHPENINSULA.CO.UK/SAMPLE THEPENINSULIST #SAMPLEAUTUMN

Find all 5 ghosts to pick up your free gift*! You can get your trail sheets from SMIGGLE. Hunting starts on Saturday 19 October and finishes on 31 October. *First 200 children only

BEXLEYHEATH SHOPPING CENTRE

broadwayshoppingcentre.com

To reserve a place at the session and in the cast and crew, go to the Centre’s Facebook page and find a link to the Eventbrite booking site The children’s entertainments are not supervised playschemes and parents are requested to stay with their children and join in the fun *For ages 5+

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Education News

e r o t s k o Bo S

Indicates a book is part of a series

Heroes come in all shapes and sizes. You don’t have to possess super powers to help others, as these stories show. If you want to put this to the test, there is a book that shows you how you can be a hero and help save the world from the awful threat of plastic, and it doesn’t take long.

Star Read

What’s That in Dog Years?

Debbie

Ben Davis (Oxford, £6.99)

Since the day he was born, George has always had a friend in Gizmo. In fact with the break up of his parent’s marriage and his close school friend joining the gang of bullies who torment him, Gizmo has become his best and closest friend, the only one he can really rely on. But while at 14 he is only a year older than George, in dog years that makes him quite old, and George has to come to terms with the fact he won’t have his friend around for ever. Rather than dwell on this, George makes a bucket list for Gizmo determined he will get to do everything on it. Some things are easier to achieve than others and he finds help from an unexpected source. She helps George learn more about his own strengths and value while striving to complete the list. The story is intertwined with chapters from Gizmo’s autobiography telling things from his point of view while filling us in on events shared from George’s past. This is a very poignant, totally absorbing story cleverly mixing happy moments with the sad ones making them bearable. It has an uplifting ending, but I would recommend keeping a tissue, or several, to hand when reading it! Fair size print, full length novel.

The Day I Found a Wormhole at the Bottom of the Garden S

Tom Mclaughlin (Walker, £6.99) Billy was so keen to discover treasure he was willing to brave the dark, scary end of his garden to search with his metal detector. Imagine his delight when it unearthed a crown. Less delightful was the head attached to it — thankfully attached to a body, but one belonging to a very unamused Queen Victoria. The arrival of Roman soldiers and other historical characters confirms Billy’s suspicions – he has somehow unearthed a wormhole bringing people from the past. How can he resolve the situation? No one can help as no one knows wormholes really exist. It would take a genius to sort this out - but what are the chances of one coming along? It’s all a bit timey wimey, and time is of the essence if a disaster is to be avoided. This is an hilarious, laugh out loud story, you don’t know what madcap plot twist is coming along next. Fair size print and some pictures encourage newly developing readers.

Belinda Brown- David McKee (Anderson , £6.99) Belinda loves bananas, in fact they are all she will eat, no matter what time of day, even though they have spoilt a friendship. Having read they were healthy, her father doesn’t care, but Belinda’s eating habit worries Grandma. She fears eating so many bananas would give Belinda a banana shaped body. This worried her as well, so you would think it would make her stop — or could she come up with a different solution? Find out in this really funny picture book with detailed illustrations providing lots to discuss. The story is told in rhyme which will help reluctant or struggling readers.

Kids Fight Plastic - Martin Dorey (Walker, £7.99)

If you have 2 minutes to spare you can become a superhero with the help of this informative book. You don’t need special skills, you aren’t expected to do anything super human, but by doing simple, everyday actions you can help save the planet. This book will show you how. After explaining why plastic is so dangerous, it is divided into 2 minute missions. They get you to fight plastic in your bin, the park, supermarket, wardrobe and other places — 13 missions in all. Earn points by completing the missions and add them up to discover what kind of superhero you are. You can get family and friends involved as well. Good fun for you and good for the environment.

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Education News Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day

It’s the start of the Christmas term and all the Christmas razzmatazz will be on us before we know it. Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day is back on 13 December. So mark the date in your school diary, sign up for your free fundraising pack. Swap your blazer for a Christmas jumper. There’s no need for new jumpers - jazz up old knits or hold a jumper swap at school. Your pupils will love seeing teachers tinseled and class mates Christmassy. And remember, by joining in the festive fundraising, you’ll make sure children across the world have big futures to look forward to. Sign up now at www.christmasjumperday.org and they’ll send you a free fundraising pack bursting with festive inspiration. From stickers to fundraising ideas, they’ve got everything you need to plan pullover perfection.

Learning Opportunities at Tower Bridge Learning Space

Step inside London’s best-loved landmark to explore its iconic structure, spectacular views, fascinating exhibitions and atmospheric Victorian Engine Rooms. From the high-level walkways 42m above the Thames, take in stunning panoramic views and experience London life through the Glass Floor. Explore the brand new ‘Two Towers’ exhibition to discover some of the unsung heroes of Tower Bridge. Uncover their stories across 125 years of history and soak in the atmosphere of the working Bridge in one of London’s hidden gems, the magnificently restored Victorian Engine Rooms. New KS1 and SEN workshops are now available to book. Teachers and pupils are invited to learn about the history and engineering behind the iconic structure and its environment through hands-on workshops and tours. With a learning programme aligned with the national curriculum for Key Stages 1-4, Tower Bridge offer eight facilitated learning sessions, including two designed for SEN students, in the dedicated Tower Bridge Learning Space. Sessions are included in the normal school visit rate. To book a workshop and for more information about your school visit, contact Tower Bridge’s Learning and Community Engagement team on 020 7940 8397 or email learning@towerbridge.org.uk.

Leaders are Readers help children develop a passion for learning and gain skills in learning to read, Maths, English and Reasoning. Their Saturday and Summer Schools help to bridge the gap between education and self-development. Children enjoy an experience where class numbers are small, allowing each child more personal attention. Leaders are Readers focus on pupil’s specific strengths and identify their needs to help them fulfill their potential. Their flexible programmes empower gifted students to develop their skills and talents, as they are given an outlet to learn more advanced topics than their school years. The culture of the schools offers a healthy learning environment. Like-minded parents who share a commitment for their children to thrive generate a positive learning attitude in their children. Quality is what distinguishes a good school and engaged parents. Leaders are Readers offer quality face-to-face tutoring and resources. The school provides lots of opportunities to practice and develop key study skills such as exam preparation and techniques, independent learning and self-regulation. For more information or to book a trial lesson for Leaders are Readers’ next Open Day, please call 01992 651 300 or visit www. leadersarereaders.co.uk.

Education News

Leaders are Readers

Saturday term-time school enrolling now: Haberdashers’ Aske’s Crayford Academy Iron Mill Lane, Crayford, Kent DA1 4RS Free Saturday School Presentations on: 14, 21 & 28 September, 5, 12 & 19 October

FREE assessment on open days www.leadersarereaders.co.uk Call now to book your place: 01992 651 300

Learn inside the heart of London Hands-on workshops. Guided tours. Discover the science, history, engineering and architecture behind the world-famous icon.

New KS1 and SEN workshops now available

#insidetowerbridge

Book your school trip at towerbridge.org.uk/learning 2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Out of School Activities

Out of School Activities The Benefits of Performing Arts

The world throws a lot of challenges at children and young people, especially in such a fast moving technological society. The performing arts offer children a fantastic platform to be expressive and channel emotions, bravery and courage, whilst learning new skills, being active, having fun with other local children and ultimately growing in confidence. Stagecoach Performing Arts inspires every child to unlock their potential and develop their Creative Courage for Life. Children have the freedom to be creative within a structured and safe environment. Stagecoach has already made a difference to over one million students’ lives. Students learn more than the performing arts. They learn skills to help them succeed on the stage of life. The performing arts teach children to be brave, to speak up and have the courage to share their opinions. They teach life skills such as working in a team, resilience and self-esteem. It is an outlet for children to be active and expressive within a creative setting while using concentration, commitment and determination. Children can be themselves whilst being social and collaborative with their peers. Principals of Stagecoach schools have a passion for the arts and lead teams of dedicated, enthusiastic and experienced teachers to ensure all children thrive. Children of all abilities are welcome. Stagecoach runs Early Stages classes for four to six year olds, encouraging young children to use their imagination and make new friends. Main Stages for seven to eighteen year olds (divided by age into three groups) enable children to work together to be creative and have fun in a nurturing and supportive setting. If you and your child are interested in finding out more, go along for a two week trial at the start of the autumn term which begins in September.

As the school approaches its 20th anniversary it is excited to launch its Well-Being Project where students will be given an inspirational quote setting the theme for each week at the school and to be carried into their everyday lives. The school is based in Hackney, Camden, Docklands and Greenwich. For more information and to sign up for the next Taster Day please visit www.annafiorentini.com. Adults can also enjoy performing arts with evening classes led by the same award winning Fiorentini team at Stage & the City (www. stageandthecity.com). All profits go to the Fiorentini Foundation providing bursaries for less privileged children wishing to access the programmes.

All the Arts

After being named as runner up in the prestigious Bexley Business awards due to their commitment to education and community, All the Arts is geared up for a spectacular Autumn Term. With a large-scale Christmas concert, performances at Bromley Christmas Lights and a production of School of Rock planned, now is the time to enrol into a class. The school’s emphasis has long been to provide affordable training for local youngsters aged 3-21 years. With a free casting agency and many of the school’s pupils going on to perform in professional pantomimes and West End shows, All the Arts is ideal not only for those who are serious about performing arts but also for children simply needing a confidence boost.

All the World’s a Stage!

Step onto the award-winning stage at the Anna Fiorentini Theatre & Film School this September and sign up for a free taster day. With places remaining for children aged 4 - 16, the school is a leading independent drama school in London looking to nurture young talent, build confidence and foster life-long friendships. All workshops are taught by leading industry professionals who offer invaluable insight to the students in an inclusive, inspirational and exciting environment. Thanks to the Fiorentini Theatrical Agency, many of the students have secured leading roles in films, TV and on the West End stage. Our picture shows Fiorentini student, Mia, who has landed the leading role of Annie in the West End UK tour. Despite their great successes, these performers don’t forget to pop into the school to say hello to all the current students and enjoy offering advice and tips! 40

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Out of School Activities

All the Arts is incredibly proud that it is one of the only Theatre Schools in the Bexley, Bromley, Lewisham and Greenwich boroughs that is recognised as meeting the nine requirements of the Council of Dance, Drama and Musical Theatre (CDDMT), and has announced that ATA pupils will be offered the opportunity to take musical theatre/ singing exams as part of its theatre school curriculum. Book your trial today at www.allthearts.co.uk, or call 020 8850 2384 for more information.

A Confident Start with Jigsaw Performing Arts

A new school year is here time to try something new with your weekend? Jigsaw’s popular dance, singing and drama weekend classes for 3-18 year olds are designed to develop children’s confidence, self-expression, focus and social skills, while having fun and making lots of new friends. Parents share in the excitement and their children’s progress with regular presentations, shows and reports from Jigsaw’s team of highly experienced teachers. For more information or to book a two-week trial, search for your nearest school on their website www.jigsaw-arts. co.uk or call Jigsaw on 020 8447 4530. Now offering classes at Red Hill Primary School Chislehurst

020 8850 2384

Bexley • Bromley • New Eltham

Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools

dr ama singing dance Schools in:

ENROLLING NOW

Where children become everything they can be

Bexleyheath Deptford Bridge Plumstead 3–18 years

Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds BECKENHAM 020 8541 0833 stagecoach.co.uk/beckenham

ORPINGTON 01732 750783 stagecoach.co.uk/orpington

BROMLEY 02037804893 stagecoach.co.uk/bromley

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.

TWO WEEK TRIAL AVAILABLE. BOOK NOW!

T: 020 8447 4530

W: Jigsaw-arts.co.uk

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Family Travel Ideas Drifters Waterway Holidays Drifters Waterway Holidays offer 550 narrowboats for hire from 45 bases across England, Wales and Scotland. Canal boat holidays are great for families, offering the chance to set off together on an adventure afloat, learning how to steer the boat, work the locks, enjoying traffic-free towpaths, waterside attractions and watching out for wildlife along the way. A canal boat holiday is a great way to enjoy the splendid colours of autumn in the hedgerows and trees that line the waterways, as they are dramatically mirrored in the water. There’s plenty of wildlife to spot along the way as well as foraging opportunities - apples, blackberries, sweet chestnuts, rosehips, elderberries, damsons and sloes all make fabulous ingredients for fresh fruit crumbles and drinks on board. Why not amble along the Ashby to Snarestone and back on a week’s holiday from Drifters canal boat hire base at Braunston. Canal boat holiday-makers can travel to the pretty village of Snarestone and back, travelling a total of 47 miles, passing through eight locks and taking around 32 hours. This largely rural route takes boaters up the North Oxford Canal to Rugby and on to Hawkesbury Junction to join the Coventry Canal. Five miles later, boaters can transfer onto the peaceful lock-free Ashbury Canal, which winds peacefully through countryside for almost the whole of its 22-mile length. From Carlton Bridge to Snarestone, the canal is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Along the way, boaters pass close to Market Bosworth and the site of the Battle of Bosworth Field. There in 1485 the reign of Richard III ended and Henry Tudor became Henry VII, the first of the Tudor monarchs. A canal boat holiday is the perfect way to welcome in the Autumn. Drifters advise that the best age for children to enjoy a canal boat holiday is from ages 7 up. For more information, please visit drifters.co.uk.

Halloween at LEGOLAND® Billund Resort, Denmark LEGOLAND Billund Resort in Denmark is a great destination for a family friendly holiday. Combine four great places in one holiday that is exciting for kids and their families. Billund is the home of the original LEGOLAND amusement park, where kids can explore a world made of LEGO bricks with lots of cool activities and amusements. At the newly opened LEGOLAND Castle Hotel, you can even stay in the fairy tale themed room – from the princess’s royal chamber to the knight’s living room. LEGO House is the new experience house ﬁlled with 25 million LEGO bricks ready to be turned into creative constructions. It is an inspiring place for LEGO fans of all ages. The waterpark Lalandia is Scandinavia’s biggest aquadome, where you can have fun in the wave pool and water slides and simply relax in the tropical lagoon. Lastly, the Givskud Zoo lets you experience exotic animals such as lions, giraffes and rhinos up close.You can head out on a guided safari, learn about the animals and experience the wild life by the bonﬁre. The four places are located close to each other and are easy to access from the UK with direct routes to Billund Airport from London, Manchester and Edinburgh. Halloween is taken very serious at LEGOLAND. Join them for some eerily scary days when they open the doors for LEGOLAND Halloween. The

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Kent Wildlife Stays with Mulberry Cottages

Following the film release of Lion King this summer, leading holiday lettings agency Mulberry Cottages is offering for hire a property in Kent where guests can see Simba and Nala in the flesh. Animal enthusiasts can watch wildlife roam free and let a lion’s roar be their alarm clock, at this unique property overlooking the Kentish ‘savannah’. Amur Tiger Lodge in Smarden, Kent sleeps two people. For a truly unforgettable experience, spend the night in this African style lodge amongst 50 beautiful endangered cats. Amur Tiger Lodge is set in 32 acres of grassland within The Big Cat Sanctuary in the Kent countryside. The peace and tranquillity of the site provides a sanctuary and excellent conditions for the successful breeding of the endangered cats. The sanctuary is run by the Wildlife Heritage Foundation and offers a unique experience in Kent. Arrive at 2.30pm for afternoon tea with a glass of prosecco in the Heritage Lodge Welcome Centre overlooking the tigers and lions, followed by a VIP tour with one of the keepers where you will be able to meet the wonderful cats. After freshening up in your lodge, enjoy a complimentary pre-dinner drink and an evening meal in the Heritage Lodge Conservatory overlooking the African lions. They are so close it feels like they are literally walking past your table. A peaceful night’s sleep will follow while you are surrounded by some of the world’s most magnificent predators. The next day you will wake to the roar of the lions. Breakfast will be served in the Heritage Lodge Conservatory followed by a walk on the wild side with one of the keepers.Your morning tour includes a hand feed of one of the cats and concludes at approximately 11am with a visit to the gift shop. This is a unique, worthwhile and wonderful wildlife experience in the heart of Kent. Prices start from £2290 for three nights or £5590 for seven nights. For more information, please visit www.mulberrycottages.com.

park is decorated with fun Halloween details and thousands of pumpkins. From 6 - 26 October, be spooked as the park is taken over by scary creatures that create creepiness in every nook.Visit them in the Brick or Treat Houses, meet them in the park and at the Halloween activities. Or from 12 – 19 and 26 October, see Halloween by night. It becomes a little extra creepy, when darkness falls, and the ﬁne details are given extra ambience from the many lights in the park. Try out several of the park’s rides in the dark, get scared witless in Ghost - The Haunted House, and complete the evening with the most amazing Halloween ﬁreworks when the park stays open late. For more information, please visit www.legoland. dk/en.

October Half-Term Skiing Yes you can ski at half term! Skiing specialist, Zenith Holidays, are offering family October half term holidays in Stubai in Austria which offers a snow guarantee from October all the way through to June thanks to its glacier location. With 1,450 hectares of terrain, Stubai claims to be ‘the biggest glacier resort in Austria’ and is home to 35 downhill slopes from easy to demanding, with 26 cable cars and lifts, plus the ‘3S Eisgratbahn’ which has a length of 4.7 kilometres and is the longest lift of its kind in the Alps. Accommodation on offer includes Hotel Kindl in the quiet village of Milders close to the glacier, which offers a wealth of facilities including a wellness centre with a pool, sauna, jacuzzi, relaxation area and massage rooms. Prices for a seven-night stay starting on 19 October, are from £751 per adult and £488 per child under 14 years of age and from £299 for youngsters aged under 10 years. This price is based on two adults and two children sharing a family room and includes airport transfers, halfboard accommodation and complimentary bus travel to the glacier. Flights are not included but Zenith is happy to advise on options. Call 0203 137 7678 or visit www.zenithholidays.co.uk for more information.

Lower Mill Estate – Pumpkin Flotilla The Lower Mill Estate, located in the Cotswolds, is a true jewel in the patchwork quilt landscape of England.The lakeside nature reserve is comprised of eight lakes, two rivers and miles of walking trails. Formerly the site of a derelict quarry, Lower Mill Estate is now a stunning space that celebrates unspoiled nature, beautiful wildlife and everything the great outdoors has to offer. Its woodlands and hedgerows are home to a diverse range of native wildlife. For families looking for the ultimate Halloween half term break, Lower Mill Estate is the place to be. On 31 October, 200 grimacing glowing pumpkins will set sail on The Cotswolds’ one and only Pumpkin Flotilla.The morning will be spent in the witch’s hat tepee with its pumpkin carving, face painting and Halloween crafts. Come the evening, guests will be invited to toast marshmallows on the firepits, sip on hot drinks and admire their creations floating on Somerford Lagoon, shrouded by an eerie mist and illuminated by candlelight. For the brave explorers, the evening can be topped off with an Into the Wild nature walk at dusk - it’s the perfect opportunity to spot Lower Mill Estate’s beavers, owls and other nocturnal beasts. The Estate has a range of properties sleeping four to 12 guests available for four nights from 28 October to 1 November. A stay in three bedroom Ewen House is £902 for four nights.The pumpkin flotilla experience is free to all guests of Lower Mill Estate with an optional donation to Dreamflight.The Into the Wild walk is £15 per person. For more information, please visit www.habitatescapes.com or call 01285 869 489.

Win a Parc Asterix Short Break Parc Asterix, close to Paris and just a two hour drive from Calais, is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. A new Asterix film was released this August, so a trip to the park couldn’t come at a more exciting time! It has a combination of 47 attractions, rides, performances and interactive shows set in 6 worlds (Gaul, the Roman Empire, Ancient Greece, the Vikings, Travel Through Time and Egypt). You can expect historical and magical discoveries, laughter and thrills for all the family. To celebrate the anniversary, the park has recently opened its second hotel, La Cité Suspendue, a village of wooden cabins on stilts spread across the forest by the park’s gate, as well as two new attractions - Attention Menhir!, a fully immersive 4D cinema complete with smells, water, wind and more and L’Aventure Asterix, an interactive circuit taking visitors through the comic book’s creative process as well as a drawing workshop. In the autumn, Park Asterix will celebrate Halloween when the park is transformed into a street show of monsters and terrifying creatures. In the winter, they will celebrate Christmas with special decorations, a Christmas market, an ice skating rink and an ice maze. For more information visit www.parcasterix.fr

Primary Times has a prize for a family of four, which includes a 2 night stay at one of the park’s on-site hotels, as well as a 2 day park pass, to give away to one lucky reader. (Travel to Parc Asterix is not included in the prize.) To be in with a chance of winning this amazing prize, all you need to do is complete the word search. Then fill out the form with your details and send them both to Parc Asterix 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 ‘Parc Asterix Competition’ as the subject by Friday 27 September. T A H R I H N E M B

G V Z L T G F M M W

A S T E R I X I W P

U J M D I Q U T L A

L T Y I P S U M O R

S X S R E T S A O C

Find the following words Parc, Asterix, Menhir, Ride, Gauls, Trip, Time, Hat, Coasters, Romus Name Age ......................................................................... Address .................................................................. ................................................................................ ................................................................................ School.....................................................................

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

What’s On

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

September Egg Box Owls, Horniman Museum and Gardens, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ

(Also 21 Sep) 1.30-2.15pm, 2.453.30pm. Celebrate recycling week by creating a fabulous owl friend out of egg boxes. Ages 3+. Charges apply. Art Makers takes place in the Education Centre. For more details and to book visit www.horniman.ac.uk

Chineke! Junior Orchestra Passenger Seats, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX

3pm. Get a front-seat view of the action in an immersive performance where you can sit among the orchestra while they play. Chineke! Junior Orchestra is a youth orchestra of black and minority ethnic musicians aged 11+. For more details and to book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

Sat 14 – Sun 15 Sep Guided Tour of Brixton Windmill, SW2 5EU

Also 21-22 Sep. 1-5pm.Visit this wonderful reminder of Brixton’s rural past. Discover the two mills in one and learn about the Ashby family, who produced flour at Brixton from 18161934. There will be refreshments, an exhibition and the Windmill Shop.

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

Ancient Egypt Adventure Activity Book

“More historical fun to fascinate little Pharaohs and mesmerise your menacing mummies!” Learn about the wonders of Ancient Egypt through completing this spectacular activity book that is both educational and fun. With beautiful illustrations by Jen Alliston, children can be entertained for hours on end. There are even four pages of stickers included so they can customise the book themselves. There are over one-hundred different activities and games, from spot the difference, maths challenges, colouring in and unscrambling secret messages included with so many interactive ways to explore Ancient Egypt. Children can learn about Pharaohs, great gods, hieroglyphics, the afterlife and pyramids whilst completing captivating challenges that are enjoyable and will even make them laugh with Ancient Egyptianthemed jokes. With even more ways to interact, there are DIY-activities that are easy to follow. Make your very own decorated collar, a water clock and even a mummy! This book provides a great introduction to Ancient Egypt that is simple and easy for younger children to follow. The exciting activities mean they can interact and remember what they have learnt whilst developing skills and concentration. Colourful illustrations and lots of jampacked fun will captivate children with the fabulous world of Ancient Egypt. Ancient Egypt Adventure Activity Book is available to buy for £6.99 from www.thegmcgroup.com and other retailers. It is suitable for children aged 4-8. 44

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

“

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

”

fantastic flavours from the street food stalls as Erith Kitchen moves to the Pier for its last outing, and relax and listen to a great line-up of local. Search ‘Erith Pier Festival’ on Facebook.

Space Rocks, Indigo @ The O2, Greenwich, SE10 0DX

Take a full 40 minute tour to the top (must book in advance at www. brixtonwindmill.org or just turn up for a shorter guided tour – every 20 minutes 1-4.40pm.

A festival of space exploration. Presented in association with ESA, the European Space Agency, it’s a unique gathering of the best and brightest in every scientific and creative field but united by a common passion for the great beyond, and with a focus on fun. To book visit www.theo2.co.uk

Autumn Diesel Gala, Epping Ongar Railway, CM5 9BN

Abbey Wood Food and Craft Market, SE2 9RH

This is the third of the ever popular Diesel Galas, where the home fleet, along with some interesting visiting locomotives, come out to be put through their paces over some of the most challenging gradients in preservation. For more details and to buy tickets visit www.eorailway.co.uk

Sun 15 Sep

Totally Thames 2019: Thames 1745, Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, SE10 9NN

2.30pm and 4.30pm. In this family show, head back in time to 1745 where the landlady of the Queen’s Head Ale House has been up to no good. She is captured and sentenced to the ducking stool. See for yourself if she can escape or if she is doomed. For details and to book tickets visit www.ornc.org

Fri 20 Sep

Author Adam Baron Event, Ottie and the Bea, Blackheath Royal Standard, SE3 7BT 4.30-5.30pm. Local author Adam Baron will be talking about his two books ‘Boy Underwater’ and ‘You Won’t Believe This’ and the process of writing. Free event. For more details and to book visit www. ottieandthebea.com

Fri 20 – Sun 22 Sep

Open Air Cinema, Central Park, Greenwich Peninsula, SE10 0JF

7.30pm. Bring your friends and family to watch Grease, Bohemian Rhapsody and Four Weddings and a Funeral over these 3 days.You can expect tasty street food and a bar. Choose popcorn, pizza or bring your own picnic – it’s up to you. It’s probably the most laid-back way to enjoy film and food in the city. Book your ticket at popupscreens.co.uk

Sat 21 Sep

Family Activity Day, Tower Bridge Exhibition, SE1 2UP

10am-4pm. Go along and enjoy some fun family activities inside Tower Bridge. All activities are included in the price of your admission ticket. For more details visit www. towerbridge.org.uk

Erith Pier Festival, DA8

11am–9pm. Head down to the river to toast the end of the summer and enjoy fun for all the family. Sample

11am-4pm. A market boasting foods from around the world to sample and buy. Craft stalls offering great products from personalised frames to knitwear, baby items and homemade fudge. For children there will be face painters, kids’ activities and a play zone.Visit www.bexley.gov. uk/events

Sparkle Child Workshop, Ottie and the Bea, Blackheath Royal Standard, SE3 7BT

2pm. Decorate your very own tote bag with your name and adorn it with sparkly shapes and a fabulous tassel keyring that you’ll be taught how to make. Ages 7+. For more details and to book visit www.ottieandthebea. com

Sat 21 – Sun 22 Sep

Totally Thames 2019: Thames 1745, Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, SE10 9NN

(Also 28-29 Sep) 2.30pm and 4.30pm. In this family show, head back in time to 1745 where the landlady of the Queen’s Head Ale House has been up to no good. She is captured and sentenced to the ducking stool. See for yourself if she can escape or if she is doomed. For details and to book visit www.ornc.org

Sat 21 Sep – Sun 19 Jan

Spanish Flu Exhibition, Florence Nightingale Museum, SE1 7EW

Find out how the pandemic spread across the globe, the strange and often dangerous ‘treatments’ and discover how nurses, inspired by the work of Florence Nightingale, were the only thing that helped. For more details visit www.florence-nightingale. co.uk

Sun 22 Sep

Open House London, The Conservatoire, Blackheath, SE3 9RQ

Find out more about the Conservatoire’s fascinating history and architecture. Free admission. For more details visit www. conservatoire.org.uk

Autumn Fayre, Severndroog Castle, Shooters Hill, SE18 3RT

In the courtyard and the grounds, enjoy a day of free entertainment, kids’ performing arts and craft activities and community groups, plus

Your family diary for September and October

September lots of goodies for sale from local small businesses. Free timed tickets for Castle entry are strictly limited and are expected to sell-out early on the day. For more details visit www. severndroogcastle.org.uk

Low Tide Walk, Creekside Discovery Centre, Deptford, SE8 4SA

11am-1pm. Wade in a wild river and experience a different perspective of London history and urban wildlife. Ages 9+. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www. creeksidecentre.org.uk

Reimagine. Your City. Car Free, Londonwide 10.30am-5pm. A brand new free event to celebrate World Car Free Day, allowing Londoners of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy London’s streets. The celebration will take place on 20km of traffic-free roads around Tower Bridge, London Bridge and the City of London. Free entertainment and fun activities will be provided. For more details visit www.london.gov.uk/events

Tues 24 Sep

Crossness Engines Guided Tour, Thames Water Sewage Treatment Works, SE2 9AQ

Thurs 26 Sep – Sun 6 Oct

Marvel Universe LIVE! The O2, Greenwich, SE10 0DX (Selected dates) In this new show, fans of all ages will be immersed in the Marvel universe and see Spider-Man, The Avengers and the Guardians of the Galaxy join forces with Doctor Strange, in a race against time to recover the Wand of Watoomb from Loki. The audience will witness cutting-edge special effects, pyrotechnics, and impressive 3D video projection. To book visit www.theo2.co.uk

Sat 28 Sep

Meet Miss Nightingale, Florence Nightingale Museum, SE1 7EW 11.30am, 1.30pm and 3pm. Go along and meet Miss Nightingale and hear all about how she became known as the ‘Lady with the Lamp’, how she became a nurse, why she went to the Crimea and how she improved the conditions for the soldiers and nurses. For details visit www. florence-nightingale.co.uk

Twilight Walk, Blackheath Common, SE3

St Christopher’s Hospice and Greenwich & Bexley Community Hospice will be joining forces again. The walk will again start and finish on Blackheath Common with stunning views including Royal Greenwich Park, Old Royal Naval College and the Cutty Sark at sunset. To sign up visit www.stchristophers.org.uk

Family Fun Eco Festival, Abbey Wood, DA17 5DH

11am-3pm. There will be lots to do including family fun activities, live music and a wide range of stalls where you can find out about local wellbeing community groups. To register for a free ticket search ‘Free Family Fun Eco Festival’ on Eventbrite or visit www.bexley.gov.uk

London Harvest Festival, The Woodlands Farm Trust, Welling, DA16 3RP

12noon-5pm. The annual London Harvest Festival with animal shows, craft demonstrations and children’s activities. A wonderful day bringing together London’s city farms and community gardens. For details visit www.thewoodlandsfarmtrust.org

School of Comedy Workshop, Castelnau Community Centre, SW13 9AQ 10.30-11.30am. Teaches children the art of improvisation, sketch and stand-up comedy. To book tickets visit www.barnesfilmfestival.com

Guy’s Urban Challenge, Guys Hospital, SE1 9RT

An adult and junior urban triathlon. Run, spin and climb. A day of fitness and fundraising for all the family. For more details sign up now at www. guc19.org

Sat 28 – Sun 29 Sep

Astronomy and Islam: Family Special, Royal Observatory Greenwich, SE10 8XJ 10-10.45am. Held before the predicted sighting of the next New Crescent Moon, this special planetarium show will guide you through the steps to observe this phase and discuss the difficulties in defining a first sighting. Ages 7+. Charges apply. To book visit www. rmg.co.uk

“

Thurs 3 Oct

I saw your event in Primary Times.... Please mention you saw the event listed in Primary Times Sun 29 Sep

”

Family Sundays, Royal Opera House, WC2E 9DD

11am-3.30pm. Discover more about opera, ballet and the Royal Opera House in fun-packed Sundays, ideal for all the family, with a range of exciting and creative activities. Ages 3-10. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www.roh.org.uk

Japan Matsuri, Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN

10am-8pm. A free annual festival with Japanese food, music, dance and activities for all the family. The theme this year is ‘future generations’. For more details visit www.japanmatsuri. com

Regatta London, Central London

For one day, kayaking, canoeing, rowing and paddle boarding will take over the River Thames. The event will fundraise for great causes, connect sport with the environment and inspire thousands of people from across the country to take up paddle sports. For more information, contact info@regatta.london

Annual Closure, Thames Barrier, Woolwich, SE18 5NJ

Witness the annual Thames Barrier Test Closure to see one of the largest movable flood barriers in the world in action. Check out the visitor centre to take part in fun activities, talks and demonstrations. For times and more information visit www.gov. uk/guidance/the-thames-barrier

Houseplant Festival, Garden Museum, SE1 7LB

This all-day celebration of houseplants will bring the thriving online plant community to life. Pick up some tips for looking after your precious greenery, enjoy some food and a drink from the Garden Café, and do a little plant shopping while you’re at it. For details visit www. gardenmuseum.org.uk

October Wed 2 – Thurs 31 Oct

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

Highlight Tours: October, Red House, Bexleyheath, DA6 8JF

(Selected dates) 11am, 11.30am, 12noon, 12.30pm, 1pm. This tour will share the highlights of Red House and the stories of the 5 years that William and Jane Morris spent there with their family and friends. Admission charges apply. To book visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/redhouse

What’s On

More What’s On

National Poetry Day, Nationwide

Join in the fun in this UK-wide celebration of poetry. This year marks National Poetry Day’s 25th anniversary and the theme will be Truth. The day generates thousands of amazing events across the UK in a variety of venues. For more details and to sign up visit www. nationalpoetryday.co.uk

Fri 4 Oct

Vegan Oktoberfest, Greenwich Market, SE10 9HZ

6-10pm. Oktoberfest has gone green in Greenwich. Great tastes from London’s best vegan street food stalls. For more details and to book visit www.greenwichmarket.london

Sat 5 Oct

Southbank Sinfonia Family Concert, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX

11.30am. Are you ready to explore more than 400 years of musical history in 45 minutes? Step into a time machine at an interactive family concert, featuring a chance to meet the musicians. Ages 5-11. Charges apply. For more details visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

Sat 5 – Sun 6 Oct

Ghost Ships and Spooky Shadows, Cutty Sark, Greenwich, SE10 9HT

11am-4pm. Set sail with storyteller Olivia Armstrong for an adventure across the high seas. Enjoy fantastic tales of faraway lands before making the return journey home to dry land. For more details and to buy tickets visit www.rmg.co.uk/cutty-sark

Hog’s Hole Apple Weekend, Red House, Bexleyheath, DA6 8JF 11am-5pm. Stalls of local produce, heritage apples to try and buy, an apple press, hot mulled cider and a host of children’s activities and trails all set in the beautiful grounds. This is the perfect activity for the whole family. Admission charges apply. To book visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ red-house

Fun Palaces, Nationwide

A weekend campaign promoting community at the heart of culture and culture at the heart of community. From tiny dancers to mad scientists, there is fun for everyone. For more details and to find your local fun palace visit www. funpalaces.co.uk

Sun 6 Oct

Big Bike Ride, Various Locations

10am-4pm. The Hospice Big Bike Ride is the ideal day out for families and friends wanting to enjoy the tranquillity of cycling along the River Thames. Starting points include: Erith, Thamesmead, Woolwich or Greenwich. For details visit www. bexley.gov.uk/events

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 46...

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

What’s On

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

October Tues 8 Oct

Crossness Engines Guided Tour, Thames Water Sewage Treatment Works, SE2 9AQ

Sat 12 Oct

Sophy Henn Event, Ottie and the Bea, Blackheath Royal Standard, SE3 7BT

Book a spot to hear Sophy read from her latest book ‘Bad Nana 3’ and be prepared for some fun making too. For more details and to book visit www.ottieandthebea.com

GOSH Race for The Kids, Hyde Park, W2 2UH Race for the Kids is a 5K family fun run and the biggest mass participation event for Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity. To register visit www. royalparks.org.uk or www.gosh.org

Sun 13 Oct

London Harvest Festival, The Woodlands Farm Trust, Welling, DA16 3RP

11am-4pm. An annual celebration of the British Apple and a wonderful opportunity to purchase a variety of different British apples, as well as browse local craft stalls and have a go at apple pressing. There will be children’s activities and lots more. For details visit www. thewoodlandsfarmtrust.org

Thurs 17 Oct

Annual Closure, Thames Barrier, Woolwich, SE18 5NJ

Witness the annual Thames Barrier Test Closure to see one of the largest movable flood barriers in the

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

Brain-Fizzing Facts – Awesome Science Questions Answered Why is your elbow called your funny bone? How could you escape the grip of a crocodile’s jaw? Which animal can breathe through its bottom? And how do these things all link together? Science expert and STEM Ambassador Dr Emily Grossman uncovers the answers to these and many of the weirdest, mindfizzingly awesome and funny science questions in her brand new book, Brain-Fizzing Facts. Emily is an expert in molecular biology and genetics and has also trained and worked as an actress and singer, combining these skills as a science broadcaster, educator and trainer. You may recognise her from her regular appearances on Sky 1’s fact-based panel show, Duck Quacks Don’t Echo or her Youtube video sensation How to Stop Yourself Being Ticklish. Emily’s brilliant book will have your eyebrows raised and jaw dropping as it uncovers the amazing scientific explanations behind all sorts of questions that pop into your head. Each section of the book is linked to the previous one, creating a fantastically interactive structure where one answered question brings up new curiosities and surprises. This is the perfect book for children who love learning about science or who need an extra nudge when it comes to STEM (Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) subjects. Brain-Fizzing Facts is available now on paperback for £6.99 from all good book shops. 46

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

“

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

”

world in action. Check out the visitor centre to take part in fun activities, talks and demonstrations. For times and more information visit www.gov. uk/guidance/the-thames-barrier

Sat 19 Oct

Meet Miss Nightingale, Florence Nightingale Museum, SE1 7EW (Also 21, 23, 25-26 Oct) 11.30am, 1.30pm and 3pm. Go along and meet Miss Nightingale and hear all about how she became known as the ‘Lady with the Lamp’, how she became a nurse, why she went to the Crimea and how she improved the conditions for the soldiers and nurses. For details visit www. florence-nightingale.co.uk

Family Activity Day, Tower Bridge Exhibition, SE1 2UP

10am-4pm. Go along and enjoy some fun family activities inside Tower Bridge. All activities are included in the price of your admission ticket. For more details visit www. towerbridge.org.uk

Sat 19 – Sun 27 Oct Goblin Market Trail, Red House, DA6 8JF

11am-4.15pm. Discover the unusual creatures and luscious fruits that inspired Christina Rossetti’s iconic poem this half term. There will be treats made from Red House’s apples and fresh produce being harvested throughout autumn for lunch in the Scullery Café. www.nationaltrust. org.uk

Sun 20 Oct

Low Tide Walk, Creekside Discovery Centre, Deptford, SE8 4SA

11am-1pm. Wade in a wild river and experience a different perspective of London history and urban wildlife. Ages 9+. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www. creeksidecentre.org.uk

Family Open Day, Thames Water Sewage Treatment Works, SE2 9AQ

Sun 20 – Sun 27 Oct

Spooky Eltham Palace, SE9 5QE

(Selected dates) 11am-4pm. A feast of frightening fun awaits at Eltham Palace and Gardens this half term.

Gather your little monsters for a ghoulishly good day-out, with wicked crafts and a spooktacular Halloween quest around the castle. To book visit www.english-heritage.org.uk

Mon 21 Oct

Fairy Tales of the Turntable, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX

10.30am. Red shoes not required for a free dance and music family workshop on all things fairy tale, led by ZooNation. Work with a dancer from the theatre company to learn some new moves. For more details and to book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

Mon 21 – Sun 27 Oct The Fairy Tale Trail, Royal Festival Hall SE1 8XX

Set off on a do-it-yourself adventure for families, as magical as the words ‘once-upon-a-time’. Guided by a playful trail kit, discover the secrets of your favourite fairy tales through cryptic puzzle-solving, creative looking, drawing and games. For more details visit www.southbankcentre. co.uk

Tues 22 Oct

Storytelling with Miss Nightingale, Florence Nightingale Museum, SE1 7EW

11am-1pm and 1.30-3.30pm. Join Miss Nightingale for a storytelling session in the new Family Corner. Dress up as a nurse and discover how Florence made hospitals better for patients and nurses and how she still inspires people today. For more details visit www.florence-nightingale.co.uk

Wed 23 – Thurs 24 Oct

Anansi Dance and Storytelling Workshop, Unicorn Theatre, SE1 2HZ 12.30pm. After the performance, go along on a musical journey to the dancing world of Anansi and his famous stories. This event is part of UpClub+. Ages 3-7. For more details and to book visit www.unicorntheatre.com/Anansi

Fri 25 - Sat 26 Oct

Little Horrors Movie Makers, Bexleyheath Shopping Centre, DA6 7JN 11am, 1pm and 3pm. Costumes, props and a chance to discover the tricks and treats of movie making in these interactive sessions. To reserve a place at the session and in the cast and crew go to the Centre’s Facebook page and find a link to the Eventbrite booking site. www. bexleyheathshoppingcentre.com

Our next copy deadline is

27 September 2019 If you have something you would like us to try and publicise (space permitting) please email it to

listings@ primarytimes.biz

All your own work!

Muniba Saddique aged 9

Charlotte Stokes aged 6 Newton won a box competitions in our July Bumper Summer issue. April Congratulations to the following people who won Barratt, Arabella Lilly , Clarke ew Matth were rs Dumbo DVD winne of books for her school - Warden Park Primary. Our ia Lovett. Victor nted Horsham Family VIP winners were Ava and Lincoln, Emilia Windle and Eshan Rana. Our Encha n. Ben Wilke Finlay and ard ew Rowe, Finn Lagdon, Katie Stann Measure-Mates were won by Ernest Croucher, Matth m Moger Willia ience. Exper y rfl Butte ook Millbr ing won tickets to the Theobald, Eilis Renee Leadbetter and Henry Cumm . Isla Isteed n Lincol and etition. Funkita swimwear was won by Rose Sibley r was won the Phileas Fogg's World of Adventures comp winne older our and 8's Annie's drawing competition for the under Baker won UglyDolls goodies. Charlotte Stokes won page. enjoy the artwork on this Muniba Saddique. Well done to all our winners and

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

Thank you to Taiwo Orunjbamila for his clever acrostic about his daddy, Daisy Bidgood for her lovely concert drawing, Elsie Carolyn Pitkin for her excellent Gecko drawing and Rose Batty for the fun walk in the park scene. We love seeing your work so do please keep sending it to us.

DAILY EXPRESS

Circus1903.com GREAT FAMILY PRICES | ROYAL FESTIVAL HALL