South London February Half Term 2018 Primary Times by Alison Watson

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IDE U NG O T’S A WH

for families with primary aged children

February Half Term Edition Issue 111 29 January - 18 March 2018

in South London

Fri 23 Mar – Sun 13 May Adapted by Peter Glanville and Barb Jungr Music and songs by Barb Jungr www.polkatheatre.com

The Best Family Guide to What’s On

t ’ a s h N ew W Bob the Artist: Dominoes

Bob the Artist: Dominoes is a beautifully illustrated, fun and educational dominoes game for children aged 3+. Bob the Artist loves to paint with brightly coloured splashes, but he has got into a bit of mess. Help Bob clear up his paints by matching the colours and numbers in this fun game of dominoes. In this fantastic follow-up to the picture book Bob the Artist, children can learn how to match colours, pictures and numbers in a fun and educational way.The beautifully packaged game contains 28 card dominoes in a sliding box that is easy to tidy away. Bob the Artist: Dominoes will be available online for £9.99 from 26 February.

The new moon on Friday 16 February marks the official New Year in China and celebrations continue until 2 March. To celebrate the start of spring and the year of the dog, Five Boys Clothing have created a series of t-shirts inspired by the Chinese New Year. To kick off the year of the dog choose from a red geometric canine on white or a skateboarding dachshund white silhouette on red or blue. Both tees are available in ages 3 to 12 and are £15 each. Children born in the year of the dog (2006) are said to be loyal and honest, amiable and kind, cautious and prudent. Whether this sounds like your child or not, they’re sure to love a dog t-shirt. Each 100% cotton t-shirt is hand screen printed in Bristol. The Five Boys Clothing brand is owned by two Mums with five boys between them who set out to make shopping for boys more fun. The newest additions to their collection do just that. For more information, visit www. fiveboysclothing.com.

Superhero Snap

Coco Guitar

Encourage your child to make music with the new Coco guitar. Inspired by the musical aspirations of Miguel, the star of Disney Pixar animation Coco, they can discover a hidden talent and serenade the family with this great new instrument. Just as Miguel has big dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol Ernesto de la Cruz, your child can begin their musical adventure with their very own guitar. The Disney Pixar Coco Guitar is available from Amazon and the Disney store, RRP £32.99.

Botley the Coding Robot

Kids can become technological wizards with Botley the Coding Robot. Use the remote programmer to enter commands and watch him come to life. The Botley set comes with 77 pieces, including robot arms, mats and accessories to create mazes and new challenges. Botley feeds back with what he thinks too, with friendly audio responses to help young coders develop their critical thinking skills. Encouraging early programming skills, Botley the Coding Robot is perfect for any budding engineers and is available online for £59. For more information visit www.learningresources.co.uk.

Five Boys Clothing

Superhero Snap, illustrated by Jason Ford, puts a new superhero spin on the popular card game. Based on characters from Jason Ford’s brilliant superhero activity books, children battle it out with slime monsters, rocket men, dastardly villains and more. As players turn over matching superheroes or villains, the first player to shout ‘snap!’ collects all the cards in the middle. The winner is the first player to hold all the cards. Containing fifty-two cards, featuring thirteen different superheroes and villains in matching sets of four, Superhero Snap is suitable for two or more players and will be released online on Amazon and Laurence King Publishing on 5 February. Get your set now for £7.99. For more information visit, www.laurenceking.com.

Pirates Magnified

Set sail on a swashbuckling search-and-ﬁnd adventure that lets you see history up close and personal.With 10 unique things to spot on each spread, children will uncover the lives of 10 of history’s most notorious pirates. Complete with three magnifying glasses, traverse the globe on your own pirate adventure and learn to talk like a real pirate using a comprehensive glossary of fun terms. Hoist the mainsail and set sail for the journey of a lifetime with Pirates Magniﬁed, available online and from all good high street retailers for £14.99.

Roald Dahl Jigsaw Puzzles

This February, Paul Lamond Games will be releasing special Roald Dahl puzzles in time for World Book Day. The puzzles will feature some of Roald Dahl’s most loved characters including Matilda, James and the Giant Peach, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and The BFG. Each 250 piece game has one of Quentin Blake’s iconic pictures plus quotes from the book around the edge. There will also be a giant ﬂoor puzzle with bigger pieces for younger children. Bring the joy of reading to life with a Roald Dahl jigsaw puzzle.

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Dear Readers

r though ppy Christmas and New Yea I hope you all had a very Ha utions sol Re r Yea w Ne r you . How are but my it seems a while ago now rt sta to yet of them? My diet has I can st going? Have you kept any lea at so g rkin wo is n er more ofte resolution on seeing my sist tick one off. really starting year it looks like events are After a quiet start to the new nds of usa e you look through the tho rs trying to happen so do make sur hou nd spe y The iam have found. let listings that Hayley and Mir ase do the and things to do so ple to discover places to go ry Times. ma read about them in Pri organisers know that you ple of months are forward to over the next cou Some of the things to look cake is lemon pan ite y 13 February. My favour Pancake Day on Tuesda e’s Day on tin len Va is day t ? Then the nex colates or and sugar, what do you like cho to get Will you be lucky enough 2018 is Wednesday 14 February. ry. rua Feb 16 ay w Year is on Frid Chinese flowers? Then Chinese Ne our to or án jíxiáng on is the Year of the Dog. Gôuni y Da r’s Dog year. Finally Mothe iated rec readers - Good luck for this app ays alw is t sen ade card or pre Sunday 11 March. A handm so get drawing now! s so do look out e fantastic competition As always we have som they close. We e you enter them before for them and make sur give us your n’t do won them if you can’t let you know you’ve too! If you want m the e lud inc sure you contact details so make d them in the competition then just sen to enter more than one tely. Please ara sep m the n’t have to send same envelope, you do r entries though. the competition on you do include the name of rch so enjoy ter magazine on 19 Ma We’ll be back with our Eas the next half term.

Peter and the Primary

Times team

Contents

inside this issue.... News................................................... 4 What’s On Diary.................................. 6 Family Theatre.................................... 9 Out of School Activities............................12 Competitions....................................... 15 Education News................................. 17 Meet Author Lisa Thompson............. 21 All About You!................................... 23

The Primary Times Team: Publishing Editor: Peter Watson Sales: Andrew Langridge, Gill Pearce Sarah-Jane Chapple & Clarry Frewin ... the UK’s biggest free Listings: Hayley Hughes & ‘What’s On’ magazine Miriam Theobald for parents. Editorial: Anna Stringer & Primary Times in South London Dunya Simões distributes more than 45,500 Production: Alison Watson copies seven times a year and Office Manager: Chris Blower is part of a national network Administrators: Claire Wood & distributing more than 2.7 Tina Love million copies in 59 regions Proof Reader: Catherine Draisey across the UK & Ireland Social Media: Rachel Benson

Tel: 020 8318 0400 Email: office@primarytimes.biz Website: www.primarytimes.co.uk Twitter: @PT_LondonSandE Instagram: @primarytimesse

Primary Times is now printed on recycled paper throughout, from Recycle 0% d 10 100% postconsumer waste, made in Europe by a paper mill SC that is certified F E c ola b el P E and supports responsible forestry.

Primary Times in South London 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG

Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in primary and junior schools throughout the boroughs of Croydon, Lambeth, Lewisham & Southwark. Its aims are to inform families and children of current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses and attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or joining in the competitions which we run. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically based material whatsoever. We also undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best interests of young children. The opinions expressed in either the editorial or advertisements within this publication are not necessarily those held by the editor or publisher. While we take great care with the compilation of information within this magazine, neither the editor nor publisher will accept any liability for the accuracy of the editorial or advertising contained within the publication. We welcome listings being sent to us for inclusion in our What’s On section. Free listings are dependent on available space and we cannot guarantee to print all the listings we are sent. Please send them to listings@primarytimes.biz . Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in the boroughs of Croydon, Lambeth, Lewisham & Southwark 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 London is operated under franchise licence.

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

News

An International Dining Experience

If you love great food and don’t want to spend a fortune, you’ll love JRC Buffet. With hundreds of freshly prepared dishes from all over the world, you’ll find all your old favourites as well as new dishes for you to enjoy. Families love visiting JRC Buffet as there’s something for everyone – it’s also a great opportunity for parents to encourage their children to be adventurous and try new flavours. Even the fussiest eater will find new dishes they’ll love. With a wide selection of Live Cooking Stations, where expert chefs prepare dishes right in front of your eyes, it’s a dining experience like no other.

Chrysalis Care Independent Fostering Agency

Chrysalis Care recently celebrated 20 years of providing safe and nurturing foster homes for children and young people across London, Kent, Essex, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire. Chrysalis Care was founded by former foster carers, Lynda and Lou Boden in 1997. Their aim was to transform the lives of children and young people by providing foster care of the highest quality. Chrysalis Care have developed a family culture, maintaining an intimacy which spans the whole organisation, with two of the Boden daughters directing the company and many foster carers, approved in those early days, still actively fostering with Chrysalis Care. If you are already fostering, are thinking of fostering, or would like to learn more about becoming a foster carer, Chrysalis want to hear from you. After more than 20 years, they have lots of expertise to share. As a Chrysalis Care foster carer, you receive 24 hour 365 days a year support, monthly supervision with a qualified social worker, access to online and offline training and support from Chrysalis’ own Children’s Services Department.You will become part of a valuable team of foster carers, empowered to develop the skills and knowledge to become outstanding foster carers for children and young people aged 0-18 years from a range of backgrounds and circumstances. To find out more, please contact Chrysalis Care to speak with one of their knowledgeable staff members on 020 8298 2800, by emailing info@chrysaliscare.org or by visiting www.chrysaliscarefostering.org.

Evelina’s Young Artists Young patients from Evelina London Children’s Hospital will soon see their artwork on the front cover of a prestigious medical journal. The young artists worked on their pieces of art during art sessions led by Evelina London’s Play Specialists, a team specially trained in providing play for sick children and young people. They used a combination of paint, pencils, felt tips and materials such as tissue paper, glitter and leaves to make their colourful entries. January’s cover will feature a painting of an angel in fingerprints which was made by seven-year-old Maryann Cleary. She has dystonia, a neurological movement disorder syndrome which affects her muscles and means she is unable to walk, talk or use her hands effectively. Maryann has been cared for at Evelina London since September. Cathy Gill, Senior Health Play Specialist, told Primary Times, “Often our patients are unable to say how they are feeling or simply choose not to. Creative sessions give them the means to communicate in a way that feels safe to them along with giving them an opportunity to feel they have some control over their condition.” 4

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

If you aren’t too full from trying all the main dishes, you will love the wide selection of mouth-watering desserts, all beautifully presented. Visitors young and old love dipping marshmallows and fresh fruit into the milk chocolate fountain. This year the selection at JRC gets even better, as there are even more dishes available at the European section. There are also more dishes added for festivals throughout the year. For example, at Chinese New Year you’ll find delicious Chinese buns and dumplings. Don’t forget you can also enjoy as much food as you like for one set price. To hear about the latest news and offers, visit www.jrc-globalbuffet. com and sign up to the newsletter.

Jasper the Fire Fighting Dragon Local Bermondsey author and mother Val Blackburn loved telling her three year old daughter bedtime stories about a dragon who breathes water not fire. When her daughter asked for the book, it gave Val the idea to publish it for herself and make the wonderful story available for other children. Jasper the Fire Fighting Dragon tells the story of a dragon who doesn’t fit in with his fire-breathing peers. But being different is actually a good thing in his town. This colourful picture book is ideal for girls and boys aged between 3-7 years, with older children reading it themselves and younger children having it read to them. The book has had a great response so far, especially from parents of children with autism and Val has copies for sale at the School House Café which supports young people with autism at Spa School, www. schoolhousecafe.org. The book is available to buy regionally in small boutiques and independent bookshops.Val has stockists in Bermondsey, Blackheath, Greenwich Market and Waterloo or online on Amazon and has a great support from local community including her local MP buying a copy. Find out more about the book and Val’s inspiration in creating it on the Facebook page www.facebook.com/ thejasperdragonseries.

News

D&B Academy of Performing Arts D&B are celebrating their 30 year Anniversary this year. The Academy has been training children and young adults since 1988 in all areas of the Performing Arts. D & B train children who want to perform for a hobby as well as those who want to train to be become professional performers. Some recent credits include Tilly Keeper (Louise Mitchell), Zack Morris (Keegan Baker) and Jacqueline Jossa (Lauren Branning) currently on screen every weekday evening in EastEnders. Matt Terry ended 2016 with a bang by winning The X Factor, Will Tilston hit the cinemas as ‘Christopher Robin’, Nick James won a BAFTA for his lead role as Hank Zipzer and Carma Hylton plays Candi-Rose in The Dumping Ground for CBBC. School of Rock, The Book of Mormon, Lion King, Motown, Matilda, Dreamgirls, Hairspray, Les Miserables, Harry Potter, Mamma Mia and Wicked are just a few of the West End Musicals D&B students can be seen in.

Comic Fun: Draw Your Own Black Superhero

The Sullivan sisters, Donna and Bonnie, told Primary Times, ‘’We love our Academy. After all these years we still get excited when entering our Studios to see what exciting opportunities have come in. Our school is for everyone – all ages, all abilities. We are not a franchise. This is our only school which enables us to monitor and watch all of our students grow and develop.

Black Panther Movie half-term workshops at Black Cultural Archives. 15 & 16 February 2018

In 2018 we want to continue inviting new students to join us and meet the new stars of the future. Please contact us on 020 8698 8880 or visit www.dandbperformingarts.co.uk.”

blackculturalarchives.org Untitled-3 1

23/01/2018 11:11

Chocolate Orange Brownies

Get tucked into original recipes from some of your favourite sport and entertainment stars in a new book put together by triathlete coach Helen Murray.Try the Murray family’s legendary shortbread recipe, enjoy protein mufﬁns from Alec Stewart, former England cricket captain and taste delicious gooey chocolate crispy squares, with an indulgent recipe from BBC Radio 5 Live presenter Rachel Burden. Try this delicious recipe for yummy Chocolate Orange Brownies by Lucy Andrews. It’s pretty simple but you should make sure you have an adult with you especially when you’re using the hot oven.

Method:

Ingredients: 200g butter 200g dark chocolate Zest of 1 large orange 4 large eggs 350g caster sugar 100g plain ﬂour (also works with gluten free ﬂour) 50g cocoa powder 1 Terry’s Chocolate Orange broken into pieces (milk or dark)

These delicious Chocolate Orange Brownies are just one of the many recipes for you to discover in the new book, Fuelled by More Cake. Proceeds from the book will raise money for several charities including Young Epilepsy, a national charity which supports children and young people aged 25 and under with epilepsy and associated conditions, as well as their families. Their unique blend of specialist services includes a school, college and residential services providing education and healthcare for children and young people. Find out more at www.youngepilepsy.org.uk

Stage 1

stage 2 start

stage 2 finish

stage 3 start

1 Start by lining a 24 x 20cm brownie tin with baking parchment and preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas mark 4.

2 Melt the butter, dark chocolate and orange zest over a gentle

heat and then leave to cool. 3 Whisk the eggs and sugar together with an electric whisk until pale and doubled in volume, then stir in the cooled chocolate mixture. 4. Sift over the ﬂour and cocoa and fold in, before gently stirring in the chocolate orange. 5 Pour into the prepared tin and bake for 35-40 minutes. 6 Leave to cool in the tin and then cut it into 20 squares.

stage 3 finish

stage 4 29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

stage 5 5

What’s On Your family diary for February and March Ongoing Become the Greatest Explorer, National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, SE10 9NF Take one of the museum’s tablet devices and set sail across The Great Map to explore distant lands and discover treasures from around the world. Free. For times and more information visit www.rmg.co.uk/ national-maritime-museum

Every Sat

Framed Film Club, Barbican Centre, EC2Y 8DS

Family audiences can enjoy the latest and greatest films from all over the world, including special shorts programmes. On the last Sat of every month young audience members can explore film through all of the art forms with high-quality participatory arts activities. To book visit www. barbican.org.uk

Until 9 Feb

Life in the Medieval Palace, Tower of London, EC3N 4AB

11am and 1.30pm. Travel back to 1299 and enter the Medieval palace of King Edward I, Hammer of the Scots, in this live performance drama. Included in palace admission. For more information visit www.hrp.org. uk/tower-of-london

February Fri 2 Feb

Blaze, Holy Trinity Church, Clapham Common, SW4 0QZ

6.30-8pm. The Church will provide a space for Children 7-11 to build friendships. The evening usually involves a short talk, sometimes even a movie night, fun games, challenges and craft. Open to all from the church and wider community. For more information visit www. holytrinityclapham.org

Sat 3 Feb

Sandcastle Art, Unicorn Theatre, Southwark, SE1 2HZ 12noon-2pm. The favourite sandy show is back and you’ll be building sandcastles to celebrate. Watch Seesaw and then join in for some sandy art. Ages 3+. For more information visit www. unicorntheatre.com

Mega Makers, The Bright Emporium, Clapham, SW11 1SY (Also 17 Feb) 10.30am. Proving that even the mundane can be used to make something spectacular! Transform everyday materials into the unexpected. Ages 5-8. For more information and to book visit www. thebrightemporium.com

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Build a Story, The Bright Emporium, Clapham, SW11 1SY (Also 17 Feb) 11.30am. Using the mighty LEGO® brick, create the landscapes, characters and plot building up stories as you go. Ages 5-8. For more information and to book visit www.thebrightemporium. com

Mini Moss Worlds, Brockwell Park Community Greenhouses, Herne Hill, SE24 0PA 10.30am-12noon. Explore different types of moss and look for moss growing in the garden and woodland. Then find out about the basics of plant care and let your imagination run wild as you create a marvellous mini moss world. Ages 5+. To book visit www.brockwellgreenhouses. org.uk

Sat 3 – Sun 4 Feb

Messy Toddlers, The Bright Emporium, Clapham, SW11 1SY (Also 10-11, 17-18 and 24-25 Feb) 9.15-10am Sat and 9-9.45am Sun. All the mess, all the fun, but none of the tidying up! Perfect for mini artists in the making aged 1-4. For more information and to book visit www. thebrightemporium.com

Sun 4 Feb

Cat & Hutch, The Bright Emporium, Clapham, SW11 1SY (Also 18 Feb) 10.30am. In these workshops you will use different drama games to jump into the story and discover new worlds and characters. For more information and to book visit www. thebrightemporium.com

Draw, Build, Play, The Bright Emporium, Clapham, SW11 1SY (Also 10-11, 18 and 24-25 Feb) Stimulate the imagination with the Emporium’s books and get creating. Draw what you want to make, build your drawing to life, then for the fun part - play with what you’ve made. Ages 5-8. For more information and to book visit www. thebrightemporium.com

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

”

Wed 7 – Sun 18 Feb

Imagine Children’s Festival, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX

Go along for 12 days of jam-packed Half Term fun in a festival run by kids for kids. Enjoy the best children’s theatre, literature and music, with plenty of workshops and free activities for children up to 12 years old. To view the programme of events visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Fri 9 Feb

Family Fridays, Trinity House, Clapham, SW4 0BN

4-6pm. Part of the Holy Trinity’s outreach to the local community, a place where parents and children are supported to spend time together in a relaxed, fun environment. Parents can help with their children’s homework, prepare and serve food together and play games. For more information visit www. holytrinityclapham.org

Sat 10 Feb

Mini Maestro Family Concert, St Martin in the Fields, WC2N 4JJ

4.30-5.30pm. There are lots of gems to enjoy in this feast of Handel: vivacious violins and a champion cello for starters. For more information and to book visit www.stmartin-inthe-fields.org

Murder Mysteries with Robin Stevens, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

3pm. The winner of the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize in the younger fiction category, presents an interactive murder mystery themed workshops and shares the inspiration behind her detective duo, Daisy Wells and Hazel Wong. Ages 8-12. To book visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

London Children’s Book Swap, Unicorn Theatre, Southwark, SE1 2HZ 12noon-5pm. The Unicorn Theatre are taking part in the Discovery Centre London Children’s Book Swap. Take along an old book and pick up a different book to take home for free. For more information visit www.unicorntheatre.com

Making Bird Boxes, Coulsdon Common, CR3 5LN

10am-12noon. Take part in National Nest Box Week and build your own bird box for the birds in your garden. Ages 5+. Suggested donation: £3 per box. Booking essential 01372 279 083. For more information visit www. cityoflondon.gov.uk

I Can Draw, The Bright Emporium, Clapham, SW11 1SY (Also 24 Feb) 10.30am. The Bright Emporium believe everyone can draw. In this workshop learn the tips from the trade and get drawing. Ages 5-8. For more information and to book visit www.thebrightemporium. com

Flippin’ Good Fun Pancake Races, Greenwich Market, SE10 9HZ

12noon. Round up your friends and family and help raise funds for Greenwich & Bexley Community Hospice. All flippers get a free pancake and winners will receive medals. Meeting point - middle of the market. Just turn up and get flippin’! For more information visit www. greenwichmarket.london

Family Feasts, The Garden Museum, Lambeth, SE1 7LB

11am-1.30pm. Join in for hands-on Family Feasts cooking workshops. Today you will be cooking together some vegetarian street food dishes, inspired by street markets around the world. Ages 5+. For more information and to book visit www. gardenmuseum.org.uk

Sat 10 – Sun 11 Feb

Heroes of the Imagination, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

10.30am. Writer, artist and part-time superhero Jess Thom returns to Southbank Centre with the cast of Touretteshero Super Hero Party, helping children find and create their own superhero powers. For more information and to book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

Sat 10 – Sun 18 Feb

Mischief and Mysteries in Moomin Valley, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

10.30am, 12.30pm and 2pm. An interactive workshop which encompasses magical puppetry and original music to delight younger audiences and encourage them to be part of the storytelling experience. Ages 4-7. For more information and to book visit www.southbankcentre. co.uk

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

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12–16 February 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm and 4:00pm

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The fantastic stories from ‘The Wind in the Willows’ are brought to life by our costumed storyteller in these fun and interactive sessions. No booking required. 10:00am–5:00pm Monday to Friday. Closed weekends and Bank Holidays. Entrance in Bartholomew Lane, London EC2R 8AH

Share your experience boemuseum T: 020 3461 5545

www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum Use promo code FF1

Eggs-perience Easter at JRC Global Buffet... An incredible dining experience with live cooking stations, hundreds of dishes from around the world, and you can enjoy as much as you like for one price! This is five star dining for a price you can afford!

PLUS KIDS EAT FOR £1 ALL YEAR ROUND*! Book your table now at www.jrc-globalbuffet.com and check out our latest offers and events! JRCGlobalBuffet

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Review us on TripAdvisor

*See website for T&Cs.

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for February and March

February Draw your Imagination, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

Navigation Challenge, National Army Museum, Chelsea, SW3 4HT

10.30am-4pm. Children of all ages can add their own original drawings on a large chalkboard where the picture will grow throughout the day. Free. For more information visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

10.30am-12.30pm and 1.30-4.30pm. Using a variety of craft materials and navigation skills, join in to create a map and a compass to navigate it with. Design mountains, rivers and seas. Also, imagine new species of weird and wonderful creatures and draw them a new home. For more information visit www.nam.ac.uk

Little Big Sing, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

Animal Adventures, Chessington World of Adventures Resort, KT9 2NE

10.30am-3.45pm. Families can start their visit to Southbank Centre’s Imagine Children’s Festival with a warm-up singing session, leaving energised and ready to explore the festival. Free. For more information visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Perfect for all ages, this roarsome February Half Term event is packed full of fun and adventure for the whole family. Check out the new interactive show How to be a Zoo

Knight School, Tower of London, EC3N 4AB

Train as pages then squires, until at last you are worthy to become Knights of the Tower and defend the famous fortress from the marauding peasants beyond the walls. Try on medieval fashions, handle and explore armour and lots more. For more information visit www.hrp.org.uk/ tower-of-london

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

Calling all Budding Writers!

WICKED, the award-winning West End musical that tells the incredible untold story of the witches of Oz, together with the National Literacy Trust, has announced the eighth year of the prestigious WICKED Young Writer Awards. The closing date is 12 March so enter as soon as you can! Details can be found at www.WickedYoungWriterAwards.com. As in previous years, entrants can enter one of five different age categories; 5-7yrs, 8-10yrs, 1114yrs, 15-17yrs and18-25 yrs. Pieces of original writing can be submitted, either individually or as part of a school group, until 12 March. The overall winners from each category will win a VIP family experience to the West End production of WICKED, including an exclusive backstage tour, £50 book/eBook tokens, the 5-7yrs, 8-11yrs and 11-14yrs categories will win £100 worth of books for their school library donated by Hachette Children’s Books. In addition the 5-7 age category winners will receive a creative writing workshop for their class. The three schools with the highest number of entries will receive a bespoke writing workshop at their respective schools. All finalists’ entries will be printed in the WICKED Young Writer Awards anthology. The WICKED Young Writer Awards raises money for the National Literacy Trust, who campaign to improve public understanding of the vital importance of literacy. Exclusive teachers’ resources can be found online including tips for inspiring and encouraging writing in the classroom. 8

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

“

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

”

Keeper LIVE!, enjoy a selection of your favourite rides, see over 1,000 animals and lots more. To buy tickets visit www.chessington.com

Sat 10 – Sat 24 Feb

Kiss Me Quick, Greenwich Market, SE10 9HZ

Feel the Love this February - strike a pose in the market’s Love Heart, take a picture and post # Greenwich Market to be in for the chance to win a Sticks’n’Sushi gift card and a Greenwich Market goodie bag. For more information visit www. greenwichmarket.london

Sun 11 Feb

Hack and Whack, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

11am. Author of the much-loved Horrid Henry series Francesca Simon and illustrator Charlotte Cotterill read stories and present a live drawing workshop. Ages 4-6. For more information and to book visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Princeton High School Orchestra (USA), Conway Hall, Red Lion Square, WC1R 4RL 1pm. Enjoy a free family-friendly concert with the Princeton High School Orchestra. These talented young musicians will be playing a fabulous variety of classical music. Free entrance with donations. All proceeds go to Unicef. For more information visit www.conwayhall. org.uk

Tales for Rainy Days, Shakespeare’s Globe, SE1 9DT

(Also 13, 15 and 17 Feb) Families can explore the world around The Tempest in workshops and storytelling sessions and enjoy taking part in activities inspired by myths and legends from around the world. For more information and to book visit www.shakespearesglobe.com

Mon 12 Feb

The Winter’s Tale, Duffield Studio, National Theatre, SE1 9PX

10am-4pm. Become a Playmaker for the day and treat your family to a unique theatre experience responding to The Winter’s Tale. Create characters, devise a script and make a piece of costume before weaving it all together into a performance at the end of the day. To book visit www.nationaltheatre. org.uk

Luna Loves Library Day, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

11am. Performance poet, children’s author and playwright Joseph Coelho reads from Luna Loves Library

Day and explores why libraries are so brilliant with illustrator Fiona Lumbers. Ages 4-6. For more information and to book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

Imagine Heritage Trail, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

11.45am. Children aged 8-12 are invited to explore Southbank Centre’s archive and learn about its history in the Imagine Heritage Trail. This event is in partnership with the Royal College of Music. For more information and to book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

Awesomely Amazing Poems, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

1.30pm. Poets Carole Bromley, Alexander D Great and George Szirtes present a jolly poetry reading session for children aged 5-7 and their guardians. For more information and to book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

Super Mega Rockin Rock Show, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

12noon and 2pm. Kid Carpet performs rock classics and songs from his hit family theatre shows while inviting participants to play ping pong and interact with live music, performance, comedy, and animation in this kid friendly rock show. Free. For more information and to book visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Cerrie Burnell’s Harper and the Fire Star, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

2pm. Children can explore magical creatures, stunning illustrations and play with musical instruments in this captivating interactive event with former CBeebies presenter and acclaimed author Cerrie Burnell. Ages 7-9. For more information and to book visit www.southbankcentre. co.uk

Revolting Rhymes, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

2pm. Magic Light Pictures present two 30-minute animated films including Little Red Riding Hood, Snow White, Three Little Pigs, Jack and the Beanstalk and Cinderella with beautiful live music performed by Southbank Sinfonia. Ages 6–11. For more information and to book visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Exhilarating Entertaining Poems, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

3pm. Leva Flamingo, her translator Richard O’Brien, Amina Jama and Dean Parkin present a poetry reading full of entertainment and excitement for 8-11 year olds. For more information and to book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 14...

Watch out for the Hungry Hoot Owl

Family Theatre Chocolate Cake at Polka Theatre

When I was a boy I had a favourite treat… Chocolate Cake! Coming to the Polka Theatre’s main stage between 23 March and 13 May is Chocolate Cake, based on the poem by Michael Rosen, now brought to life as a picture book for the first time with brilliant and characterful illustrations by Kevin Waldron. Follow the adventures of two brothers and the night-time disappearance of a chocolate cake in this scrumptious new musical adaptation by the creators of We’re Going on a Bear Hunt and How to Hide a Lion from Michael Rosen’s beloved poem, fantastically funny and full of silly noises. Chocolate Cake has been adapted by Peter Glanville and Barb Jungr with music and songs by Barb Jungr. The show has a running time of

Hoot Owl is no ordinary owl - he’s a master of disguise – and he plans to use his cunning camouflage powers to gobble up the tiny animals of the night. The trouble is, Hoot Owl’s prey keep escaping. See Hoot Owl at Greenwich theatre this Half Term. Is Hoot Owl as masterful as he thinks he is? Will he become a member of the Owl Parliament? Will he ever succeed in catching himself some dinner?

Family Theatre

50 minutes and is suitable for ages 4+. To book or to find out more, visit www.polkatheatre.com. Ohhh! I LOVED Chocolate Cake.

Original songs, colourful puppets, animation, hilarity, ridiculousness and rapid costume changes abound in this wildly inventive new show from Proon Productions, based on the ‘Laugh Out Loud Book Award’-shortlisted picture book by Sean Taylor, with sets faithful to Jean Jullien’s visually creative illustrations. Hoot Owl is suitable for all the family aged 4 and above, it is at the Greenwich Theatre on Friday 16 February at 2pm.

Fri 23 Mar – Sun 13 May A Polka Theatre production

Ages

Adapted by Peter Glanville and Barb Jungr Music and songs by Barb Jungr Follow the adventures of two brothers and the night-time disappearance of a chocolate cake in the scrumptious new music adaptation of the Michael Rosen poem by the creators of We’re Going On a Bear Hunt and How to Hide a Lion.

Tickets & info: 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Family Theatre

friends, they reimagine the thrilling adventure of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic winter fairy tale.

23 Mar – 13 May

Until 11 Feb

Follow the adventures of two brothers and the night-time disappearance of a chocolate cake in this scrumptious new musical adaptation. Ages 4+.

My Brother, My Sister and Me

This playful new Polka show is based on conversations with young children about their own sibling relationships, and has been designed to keep children aged 2–5 enthralled throughout.

Family Theatre Greenwich Theatre Box Office: 020 8858 7755 9 Feb

Boys Don’t

Through a series of funny, familiar and sometimes heartbreaking stories of boys in the emotional spotlight, this spoken word show offers the possibility of more open communication for everyone. Ages 8-12.

10 Feb

The Enormous Turnip

One Moment In Time presents their own version of this classic folk tale, with a magical twist. Featuring beautifully handcrafted puppets and sets, storytelling, live music, songs and lots of joining in. Ages 3-8.

11 Feb

A Necklace of Raindrops

13 Feb

The Gingerbread Man

Hiccup Theatre cook up a brand new version of this classic tale adding delicious original live music, tasty storytelling and dollops of fun. Ages 3+.

14 Feb

Pandora’s Box

I Believe in Unicorns

16 Feb

14 – 18 Feb

Hush-A-Bye

Box Office: 020 3879 9555 10 – 12 Feb

22 – 25 Feb

Our fuzzy little friends need our help and multi award-winning theatre company ThisEgg is inviting you to their political party disguised as a party, party disguised as a show to help. Ages 7+

Hoot Owl, Master of Disguise

Is Hoot Owl as masterful as he thinks he is? Will he become a member of the Owl Parliament? And will he ever succeed in catching himself some dinner? Ages 4+.

17 Feb

Tom Thumb

CBeebies’ Patrick Lynch, who has been performing it for more than a decade, brings this classic story to life in a playful and fascinating show. Ages 3+.

Red Riding Hood and the Wolf Robyn wants to tell you what really happened through a world of homemade makebelieve. Enjoy a new spin on this classic story – about two misfits who just want to fit in. Ages 7+.

Polka Theatre, Wimbledon Box Office: 020 8543 4888 Until 4 Feb

The Snow Queen

A spellbinding new play, fusing drama, storytelling, music and dance, performed by a cast

The Little Matchgirl and Other Happier Tales

14 – 18 Feb

of professional actors and a chorus of local young people and community members. Ages 7+.

18 Mar

Discover the life story of a very special leaf in this warm, intimate and playful new piece for under 3s inspired by nature and the seasons.

Box Office: 020 7401 9919 27 Mar – 21 Apr

As the destitute heroine struggles to survive, she strikes her matches to keep warm. Each match will conjure a new story, a new vision. Hold her hand as you tumble down the rabbit hole together. Ages 9+

Dynamic physical storytelling, live music, shadow travels from the Primary puppetry and snowy mountains of magical moving Times! Hokkaido, to the hustle paper scenery combine and bustle of Tokyo, meeting to bring these timeless tales many wondrous creatures and alive for a new generation of characters along the way. Ages story listeners. Ages 5+. 4+.

Leaf

Shakespeare’s Globe SE1

Tomas hates reading and school, but his world is turned upside down the day he meets the Unicorn Lady in his local library, a place where the books hold more than stories within their pages. Ages 6-12.

4 Mar Enjoy the show! The Little Mochi And don’t Man Join him on his forget to say adventures as he you saw it in

12 Feb

Michael Rosen’s Chocolate Cake

Kai and Gerda are best friends, as close as if they were brother and sister. Together, with their

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Explore the sights, sounds and smells of a woodland wonderland in this interactive, multi-sensory production, with live music and puppets. Ages 3-5.

Tidy Up

Inspired by children’s logic to creating order and patterns, Tidy Up invites you to an unforgettable party where orderliness becomes exciting for children; and chaos becomes joyful for parents. Ages 3-6.

22 Feb – 4 Mar

Grandad’s Island

Join the intrepid duo, Syd and Grandad as they head off on a heart-warming adventure filled with songs, laughter and jungles that will change their lives forever. Ages 5-8.

8 – 11 Mar

The Boy who Climbed into the Moon

Some pretty odd ideas are floating around Paul’s street. But Paul has the oddest idea of all. He thinks that the moon is a big hole in the sky and he’s going to climb into it. Ages 6-11.

Southbank Centre SE1 Me and My Bee

14 – 15 Feb

Windibops

Join Volta Flatulence, Caroline Trumpface, Sally Silent But Deadly and Daisy Parphead as they invite audiences to their laboratory to investigate the link between flatulence and global warming. Ages 5+.

16 Feb

The Hilariously Funny World Of… Comedian James Campbell presents a hilarious stand-up comedy show for children 6+.

16 – 18 Feb

Tidy Up

Embrace the mess and achieve harmony in a dance-theatre show. When it starts out ship-shape, there’s only one way to go – all messed up. Ages 3+.

Unicorn SE1 Box Office: 020 7645 0560 Until 11 Mar

9 – 11 Mar

Videk’s Shirt

Join Videk and his animal friends to learn how the sheep’s wool is made into a lovely new warm shirt. Ages 2-5.

Seesaw

16 – 18 Mar

Seesaw explores the push and pull of friendship, and the ups and downs of being very young. Ages 3-6.

The Steadfast Soldier

20 Mar – 15 Apr

This playful retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s story uses puppetry, projected animations, music and shadow play for a unique theatrical experience. Ages 3-6.

Beginners

Beginners is an exquisite, funny and moving story that reminds us that the adult we’ll become - and the child we were - stay with us wherever we go. Ages 9+.

Imagine Children’s Festival

This Half Term, Tales for Rainy Days at Shakespeare’s Globe is bringing favourite stories to life and creating new ones with magical storytelling sessions and exciting workshops.

This Half Term and beyond, Southbank Centre’s annual festival run by kids for kids returns, running from 7 February to 18 February. There’s a load to do for ages 0–12 across 12 days of jam-packed fun including live music, children’s theatre, drawing workshops and talks from inspirational authors.

Families can explore the world around The Tempest in sessions led by Globe Storytellers and create new stories in a fun, interactive and playful exploration of the wonderful world of water with performer Lydia Longman.

Family Theatre

Tales for Rainy Days

This year’s highlights include a screening of the animated adaptation of Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes with live music from the Southbank Sinfonia, ITV’s Harry Hill and Beano illustrator Steve May discussing their new book (with drawing and mischiefmaking) and Jacqueline Wilson discussing her latest book Wave Me Goodbye as well as her much-loved characters like Hetty Feather and Tracy Beaker.

Tales for Rainy Days will also feature activities inspired by myths and legends from around the world. Meet dragon kings in China and sea monsters in Scandinavia then join author and illustrator Benji Davies for a lively reading from his picture books, The Storm Whale and Grandad’s Island. This session also includes a live audience draw-along and the chance to talk to Benji about where he gets all his creative ideas from.

Superhero fans can discover their own powers and create their own superhero identity at an inclusive workshop by Touretteshero and hear Radio 1’s Greg James and Chris Smith talk about their new superhero-themed bestselling book, Kid Normal.

Tales for Rainy Days is taking place from 11 to 17 February on selected dates at Shakespeare’s Globe. Tickets start at £7 and a discount of up to 50% is available when booking tickets to multiple events.

Over half of the festival is free. Ben Shires, presenter of CBBC’s Officially Amazing, MOTD Kickabout and Shout Out Saturday, hosts many of these in The Clore Ballroom at Royal Festival Hall from 10.30am–4pm. And lastly, for those with younger siblings, the first three days (Wed 7 – Fri 9 Feb) are especially for under-5s, including a comedy club for parents with infants under a year old.

Visit www.shakespearesglobe.com for more information and to book.

S E AL

R O F YS

T INY A

HALF TERM STORYTELLING FOR FAMILIES AT SHAKESPEARE’S GLOBE

11 – 17 February 2018

#GlobeFamilies Book now and save when you buy tickets to two+ events 020 7401 9919 shakespearesglobe.com

Imagine 7 – 18 Feb

C H I L D R E N ’ S F EST I VA L

12 days of jam-packed fun for all the family

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Out of School Activities ‘Every Week We Did Something Fun!’

Do you like playing drama games? Coming up with performance ideas? Meeting other people? Performing to an audience? Then this is for you! Greenwich & Lewisham Young People’s Theatre (GLYPT) are excited to announce the relaunch of their Youth Theatre programme in Downham, now on Saturdays. These affordable and creative drama classes are designed to develop acting, improvisation and performance skills … but most importantly to have fun and make new friends. Places are available for Junior (School Years 1-3) and Middle Youth Theatres (School Years 4-7) taking place at St John the Baptist Church, Bromley Road. GLYPT will also be offering free taster days during the February Half Term to give young people the opportunity to try out the classes before they sign up. For children in Years 1-3, the free introductory drama workshop will be on Monday 12 February whilst older children in Years 4-7 will be able to take part in their workshop on Tuesday 13 February. Visit GLYPT’s website www.glypt.co.uk, email info@glypt.co.uk or phone 020 8854 1316 for more information.

Angela’s Swim School

At Angela’s Swim School they encourage people of all ages and abilities to learn to swim to a high standard. One of the best life skills you can help your children learn is how to swim and Angela’s recommend that you start your baby/child as early as possible.You can book and join their lessons from age four months. Even at this young age, by using movement and songs they work on building water confidence whilst teaching little ones all 4 swimming strokes. Angela’s pride themselves on their small class sizes - only 4 children to 1 instructor. They also offer 1-2-1 private lessons for children and adults. Whether you are a beginner or want to brush up on your skills, they have lessons suitable for you. Crash courses are also available.Visit their website at www.angelasswimschool.co.uk, email Angela’s for more information at greenwichandsouthwark@angelasswimschool.co.uk or call the Greenwich and Southwark swim school on 07801 237 165.

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Dance Yourself Fit

Kerry on Dancing specialises in Ballroom and Latin American Dance. From venues in Lee, Hither Green and Blackheath, the school provides fun structured classes for all ages and abilities. Teachers follow the ISTD Ballroom and Latin American syllabus and give pupils the opportunity to progress through the ISTD examination system and enter Medallist competitions if they wish. The packed timetable includes a preschool parent and child class (Baby Ballroom & Little Latin), fun classes for school age children plus a range of adult dance and high impact movement classes (Ballroom Burn). Private tuition is also available. The benefits of Ballroom dance are endless. It encourages team work, communication and social skills. It improves posture, body alignment, strength and flexibility. It’s also great for cardiovascular health and self-confidence. Join in today, book your place and find out more at www.kerryondancing.co.uk or by emailing kerry@ kerryondancing.co.uk.

BRIT Kids

What makes BRIT Kids a different kind of Saturday school? BRIT Kids offers both Creative and Performing Arts classes, meaning there really is something for everyone.You could go to BRIT Kids and take classes in Theatre, Dance and Singing or do one of their Creative Arts classes. But the truly unique part is that you can mix and match the classes to whatever suits you. Print/Illustration is one of BRIT Kids’ Creative Arts classes. They are happy to announce they are now offering this to 10-12 year olds, as well as the existing 12-15 year old class. What will you do in Print/Illustration? This is a class for anyone who likes to see professionally finished pieces. Screen printing, illustration both digitally and by hand and all forms of print are explored on this course. Past students have made T shirt designs, printed bags, book illustrations, fine art illustrations, poster design and album cover designs to name but a few.

Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes

Learning music from an early age is a great extra skill for children to have, and can influence their academic performance as well as being a lot of fun. Group music classes are also great places for children to make new friends. Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes are swinging into Clapham and are offering a no obligation free trial class scheduled for Wednesday 24 January and 10% off first term’s fees at any of their classes mentioned in the advert. Funky Monkey teach in small groups, offering children the opportunity to learn how to play the electronic keyboard and read and write music, using a unique scheme which is engaging, fun-packed and simple to understand. Classes are held at the recently renovated Fresh Ground, just off the Northcote Road, SW11, where the smell of fresh coffee and muffins is the first thing that hits you. Classes run from 3.40-4.20pm for children aged 4 years and 4.20-5.20pm for 5-9 year olds. Funky Monkey provide all the equipment and there is an instrument rental scheme available. Booking is essential. For more information visit www.funkymonkey.info

LAMDA Training & Speech & Drama Classes Group or Private Sessions For further information please call or email:

07947 545 309 020 3620 2866 jenna@curtainupdrama.co.uk www.curtainupdrama.co.uk 54 Orchard Road, Sanderstead, South Croydon, CR2 9LU

Ballroom & Latin American Dance School ISTD Qualiﬁed Teacher •Children •Adults

•Beginners •Advanced

•Dance Exams

•Competitions

•All Ballroom &

Latin Dances taught. Venues in Lee, Hither Green & Blackheath www.kerryondancing.co.uk Tel: 07711 255932 email: kerry@kerryondancing.co.uk

BRIT Kids

At BRIT Kids, what do we do? ...More than you can imagine!

Saturday Courses at The BRIT School

Theatre

Performing and Creative Arts classes for 8–15 year olds Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

BRIT Kids at

CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

Dance Singing Street Dance Photography

Fashion and Textiles Film Making Music Production Radio

brit.croydon.sch.uk/BRITKids 29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Art Club Printmaking & Illustration Computer Club AEN in collaboration with Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy

020 8665 5242 13

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for February and March

February Make a Bird Feeder Event, Coulsdon Common, CR3 5LN

1-3pm. Join the ranger and make your own bird feeder to take home. Suitable for children aged 6 and over with adult supervision for the duration of the event. Suggested donation: £3 per feeder. Booking essential on 01372 279 083. For more information visit www. cityoflondon.gov.uk

Kevin Graal, Various Locations

Join in with a fun storytelling session, for children aged 5–10 years. Event taking place at the Central Library, Bexleyheath at 11am-12noon, Welling Library 2-3pm and Thamesmead Library 4-5pm. Part of the Book Buzz Literary Festival. Free. To book visit www.bexleylibraries.eventbrite.com

Wow! It’s an Owl, Sutton Ecology Centre, Carshalton, SM5 3NY

11am-2pm. Follow the owl trail to see and interact with real live owls. Discover more about these lovable creatures and make an owl mask to take home. Ages 3+. Drop in, no need to book. For more information visit www.suttonnature.wordpress.com/ events

Mon 12 – Fri 16 Feb

The Adventures of Toad, Bank of England Museum, EC2R 8AH 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm. The fantastic stories from The Wind in the Willows are brought to life by a costumed

Mon 12 – Tues 13 Feb

Out of this World, Royal Observatory Greenwich, SE10 8XJ

10am-12.30pm. Join the Royal Observatory Astronomers for a Moon-themed morning which includes a planetarium show, interactive quiz and immersive virtual reality activity. Ages 7+. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.rmg.co.uk/royal-observatory

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

Where’s Wally? Fun Run

The National Literacy Trust’s Where’s Wally? Fun Run is back for its sixth year, returning to Clapham Common for what is set to be the biggest event to date. On Sunday 18 March, thousands of runners, families and book lovers will dress up as the popular children’s book character Wally and run, jog or walk to raise money for the charity’s work. Participants can take part in either a 5k or 10k race, there will also be a 1k course for children under 12. Now heading into its 25th year, the National Literacy Trust hopes to celebrate its anniversary with a record number of runners donning red and white stripes to help to change the life stories of disadvantaged children in London. While giving families the chance to make a difference, the Where’s Wally? Fun Run is also guaranteed to be a fun day out for everyone. Participants and supporters will enjoy a festival area with live music, a range of food stalls, a book sale and face painting as well as fun rides and games for kids. Runners will also take home a goodie bag that includes a copy of Where’s Wally? The Sticker Book by Martin Hanford with over 1,000 Where’s Wally? Stickers. To find out more about this year’s Where’s Wally? Fun Run, visit www.literacytrust.org.uk. 14

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

“

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

”

storyteller in these fun and engaging sessions. Free. For more information visit www.bankofengland.co.uk/ museum

Make it Go!, Cutty Sark, Greenwich, SE10 9HT

11.30am-4pm. Join in this Half Term for a racing-themed arts and design experience where you can try out your design ideas and race your vehicles beneath the hull of the world’s most magnificent sailing ship. Ages 4+. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.rmg.co.uk/ cutty-sark

Half Term Workshops, J’amies Gymnastics Academy, Shirley Academy, Croydon, CR0 7NJ

10am-3pm. During all holiday periods when children are off school, JGA run different holiday activities for members and non-members to enjoy. Also taking place at the Chislehurst Academy. For more information and to book visit www. jamiesgymnasticsacademy.co.uk

SMASHfest UK: Flood!, Deptford Lounge, SE8 4RH

An extreme climate change has caused a huge flood which will overwhelm London. How can we prepare? What can we do? Join in this big adventure for all the family with comedy, music, games, experiments and lots more. For more information visit www.smashfestuk.com

Tues 13 Feb

Great Escape Workshop, BFI Southbank, SE1 8XT

10am-4pm. Taking inspiration from Aardman’s Chicken Run, today children are going to get busy with animators’ plasticine to create their very own Claymation stop-motion animations. Includes a film screening of Chicken Run at 2.30pm. Ages 8-12. Take along a packed lunch. To book visit whatson.bfi.org.uk

Fun DMC, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

Family Beatbox Workshop, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

11.15am. BAC Beatbox Academy, a collective of young singers, poets and beatboxers, present a fun filled interactive workshop on the basics of beatboxing followed by a performance. Suitable for all ages. For more information visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

BAC Junior Beatboxers, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

12.25pm. Families are invited to jam with the Battersea Arts Centre Beatbox Academy, a collective of young singers, poets and beatboxers as they make music with only their mouths and a microphone. Suitable for all ages. Free. For more information visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

People who Changed the World, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

2pm. Alongside a host of special guests, author and illustrators, Kate Pankhurst and Andrea Pippins present their respective new books Fantastically Great Women Who Changed the World and Young, Gifted and Black, in this specially curated event. Ages 8-12. To book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

Flippin’ Good Fun Pancake Races, Greenwich Market, SE10 9HZ

Fire and Food Event, Kenley Common, CR3 5LN

11am-1pm. Join the rangers and learn how to make fire using strikers. Then build your own fire and cook up a feast for lunch.You’ll be making popcorn, pancakes, chocolate brownies in oranges and more! Ages 6+. Booking essential on 01372 279 083. For more information visit www. cityoflondon.gov.uk

Feathered Friends, Brockwell Park Community Greenhouses, Herne Hill, SE24 0PA

1pm. A fun fancy dress party presented by Spin Doctor (The Doctor’s Orders) where children and parents can jam to hip-hop, funk and disco anthems. Suitable for all ages. Free. For more information visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

10.30am-12noon. Make your own binoculars and spot birds in the gardens, make a bird feeder to give our feathered friends a helping hand and investigate a selection of bird nests and a bird skull. For more information and to book visit www. brockwellgreenhouses.org.uk

Through the Eyes of Me, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

Make a Mini Pancake Party, South London Botanical Institute, SE24 9AQ

11am. Author Jon Roberts discusses his new joyful picture book Through the Eyes of Me following the everyday life of a child with autism in a special autism friendly event. Ages 6-9. For more information and to book visit www.southbankcentre. co.uk

10am-12noon and 2-4pm. Make your own botanic dining table from plant materials, designing tiny dinner sets and guests. There will also be Sweet

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 16...

Your chance to win lots more prizes We have many more books, toys and games to win than we have room for on these pages. For your chance to win a prize follow us on

@PT_LondonSandE and retweet to win

Win Signed Sets of Ross Welford’s Books

Perfect for readers aged 9-11, Ross Welford’s series of exciting and hilarious children’s books will leave kids hooked. Win one of five signed sets of his children’s books and be captivated by the exciting and surprising worlds he has created. With entertaining titles including Time Travelling with a Hamster, which follows a 12 year old on a race through time, and What Not to Do if You Turn Invisible, Ross’s latest novel will be as unusual, funny and full of heart as ever. The 1000 Year Old Boy tells the story of a 1000 year old, nearly teenage boy, who embarks on a mission to find friendship, acceptance and a different way to live in the modern world. To be in with the chance of winning a signed set of Ross Welford’s books, simply tell us what animal the main character travels with in Welford’s first book? See below for entry details.

Win a PS4 with Tad the Lost Explorer After Sara Lavroff discovers one of the three gold rings from King Midas’ necklace, proving that this ruler who turned everything he touched into gold really did exist, Tad travels to Las Vegas to join his friend at the exhibition where this incredible archaeological discovery will be revealed for the first time ever. © 2018 Paramount Pictures. All Rights Reserved. Cert U. #Tad

Primary Times has one PS4 Slimline 500GB to give away to one lucky reader. To be in with a chance of winning, all you need to do is complete the word search. Then fill out the form with your details and send it to the address at the foot of the page. R E R O L P X E E H K J C V A B A R R T Q U T R B R U R B G C X R V A T A D E O Z O M S N V Y F D L T L R E D T L G D D C X V K

D N A P W

B D T R T L E W E J A D S F S A D

Midas

•

Explorer

Gold Tad

• Kidnap • Sara

Bandits Parrot

• Jewel

• Adventure

I M K

Name................................. Age................................... address............................. ....................................... school..............................

To enter any of the competitions send your answer along with your name, age, school, address and phone number to Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London, SE12 8LG. Don’t forget to include the name of the competition. Alternatively email your answer and details to competitions@primarytimes.biz with the competion name as the subject by Friday 2 March. If you are entering more than one competition you can put all entries in the same envelope. Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Competitions

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for February and March

Tues 13 – Wed 14 Feb

February & Savoury Pancakes with Flippin’Nell 12noon-2pm. For more information and to book visit www.slbi.org.uk

Flipping Marvellous Pancake Race, London Bridge City, SE1 2DB

12.30-1.30pm. In support of theatre charity London Bubble, teams of three from businesses in SE1 will run the race around The Scoop at London Bridge City, collecting ingredients and flipping pancakes to the finish line. For more information and to register your team visit www. londonbubble.org.uk

Adventures in Archiving, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

12.30pm and 2pm. Children aged 8-12 can explore original archive material and the stories behind them in a fun workshop in Southbank Centre’s Archive studio. Free. For more information and to book visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Pop-Up Pet Portraits, Dulwich Picture Gallery, SE21 7AD

10am-12.30pm. Over two days create a tribute to one of your greatest loves, your pet! Learn the art of paper-folding, collage and illustration

Nature Detectives, Sydenham Hill Wood, SE26 6LS 11am-4pm. Sharpen up your detective skills by going along to this fun day in the woods learning how to look for tracks and signs of animals. You will be making plaster casts and playing games using all the senses. Book on 020 3897 6151. For more information visit www. wildlondon.org.uk

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

“

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

”

and come away with a pop-up portrait of your favourite animal. Ages 6-9. For more information and to buy tickets visit www. dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk

Tues 13 – Thurs 15 Feb

Half Term Cooking Camp, The Garden Museum, Lambeth, SE1 7LB

11am-1.30pm. Over three days you’ll be making foods that commemorate special events this week: Shrove Tuesday, St.Valentine’s Day and Chinese New Year. Participants are welcome to attend for one, two or all three days. Ages 6-10. For more information and to book visit www. gardenmuseum.org.uk

Tues 13 – Fri 16 Feb

Drop-In Sessions, Dulwich Picture Gallery, SE21 7AD

2-4pm. Join in a drop-in workshop exploring the theme of love in its many forms: for your family, friends, and special people.You’ll be making pop-up cards, origami

garlands, and much more. Ages 3+. For more information visit www. dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk

Wed 14 Feb

Stories and Songs, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX 11am and 1pm. Children of all ages are invited to join a singing and storytelling workshop. This is followed by a performance. Suitable for all ages. Free. For more information and to book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

Beauty and the Beast in Concert, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

3pm and 7.30pm. Watch the heartwarming story that captured the hearts and minds of generations old and new unfold on a giant screen, accompanied by an orchestra performing the magical score Ages 4+. For more information and to book visit www.southbankcentre. co.uk

The Winter’s Tale Explored, Duffield Studio, National Theatre, SE1 9PX

11.30am–12.45pm and 1.15–2.30pm. Take part in this lively family workshop and get a glimpse into the world of The Winter’s Tale. Discover the dances of the courts of Sicilia,

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

Painting Pebbles

Painting is a great activity that you can do with the kids – fun, creative and suitable for the whole family. It’s also great to do when you’re stuck indoors on a rainy day. Or you can incorporate this fun activity with a nature walk, and have something to keep as a souvenir at the end of it. On your next walk, take a bucket with you and get children to pick their favourite pebbles as they go – the quirkier the better! Children love the idea of a scavenger hunt, and this way they can make mini masterpieces out of what they find. Once you have your pebbles and are back home, you will need poster or acrylic paint, some paintbrushes, a glass of water, a colour mixing dish and some clear nail varnish. Alternatively you can buy a Stone Painting Kit from www.onbuy.com for just £6.49. To make your pebble picture: 1. Put on your painting apron and lay newspaper on the table so as not to get paint anywhere. 2. Choose where your pebble is going to go or what it is going to be used for – you could make them as gifts with people’s names on. 3. Design the stone.You could do this on paper first so when you get painting you know exactly what you are going to do. 4. Paint the stone with your design. For detailed designs, artists can do several layers of painting, allowing each one to dry before adding the next. Don’t forget to sign your artwork at the end. 5. Allow the paint to dry and then cover it with a layer of clear nail varnish. This will protect your design and give it a shiny finish. 6. Once the stone is dry, it is ready to be used. Painted pebbles can be used for all sorts of different things. Pebbles with nature designs are great for brightening up the garden, or personalised ones can be given as creative gifts and party favours.You could even glue a magnet to the back of the pebble and make it into a fridge magnet. Just make sure the pebble is light! For more practical uses, larger pebbles make great paperweights and tiny pebbles can be made into unusual jewellery. The latest craze sweeping the nation is artists leaving painted pebbles with encouraging messages on in their local areas. Members of the public can find the pebbles and re-hide them, ready for someone else to enjoy. Get children in touch with nature as well as their creative side with the new painting craze sweeping the nation. 16

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

“Education in Heaven”

Education News

Chestnut Trees Return to Chestnut Park Primary School

The local community has come together to plant new chestnut trees outside Chestnut Park Primary School in Croydon. The new trees were planted by staff from Chestnut Park Primary and members of the Baitussubhan Mosque with national charity Trees for Cities. A total of 12 new trees were planted. The trees aim not only to restore the origins of the school’s name but also to protect local families and children from air and noise pollution. Early years pupils from Chestnut Park Primary learnt about tree habitats, what kinds of animals live in trees and the importance of them in the urban environment through an

Explore Learning shared with Primary Times one member’s experience over his 4 years at one of their maths and English tuition centres in Urmston. Here is Aysin’s journey. “Explore Learning is what I call education in heaven. The best place to learn new things and improve on things you already know. Similarly, school is the same but the only difference is Explore Learning helps you learn and perfect what you have learned in school. The staff are kind and do their job extremely well. They are honestly the most helpful people you can find. I would definitely recommend anyone to join because it is fantastic to come here and everyone who is still in school deserves to join too. Explore Learning to me is like a home. A home in which you are welcome. Each tutor is more helpful than the other. I feel that a part of me has attached here. This place always had a calm atmosphere and makes me happier than ever.” Explore Learning are 100% confident you’ll love it too, so why not see for yourself? Call 03301 243 801 to book your free trial at one of Explore Learning’s local centres. Alternatively, visit www. explorelearning.co.uk.

ARE YOU READY TO

Education News

educational workshop, before writing their own tree wishes to hang on the branches of the new chestnuts. The project is part of a UKwide initiative, developed by Trees for Cities in partnership with New World Payphones. New World Payphones is replacing ageing phone boxes with touch-screen booths that combine Wi-Fi, interactive maps and payphone services. For every phone box upgraded, a new tree will be planted, with a nationwide total of at least 500. Each location and species of tree has been carefully chosen to bring maximum benefit to the local community. The new trees will add character and colour to the local environment and raise air quality for young and old alike.

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BE EXAM READY Preparing your child to sit the 11 Plus, a local entrance exam, the SATs or their end of term tests. Get ready to bring your school together and raise money for some fantastic causes. Whether you run the Sport Relief Mile, do a mile a day a different way or daily challenges, there are more ways than ever to get your school involved. Order your free fundraising pack at sportrelief.com/schools

Sport Relief is an initiative of Comic Relief, registered charity 326568 (England and Wales); SC039730 (Scotland). Photo credits: Nicole Gomes.

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29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for February and March

February travel through time to Bohemia and help Camilla choose between good and evil. Ages 7-12. To book visit www.nationaltheatre.org.uk

Tiny Owl Tales by Rumi, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

11am and 1.30pm. In this creative art workshop, children ages 4-7 are invited to step back in time to hear epic Persian tales with Tiny Owl’s wonderful storyteller Alia Al Zougbi. For more information and to book visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Make a Bird a Home, Brockwell Park Community Greenhouses, Herne Hill, SE24 0PA 10.30am-12.30pm. It’s National Nest Box Week and it’s Valentine’s Day - the perfect excuse to decorate a nest box for our feathered friends, as a gift for your loved one or to show your love for mother nature. For more information and to book visit www.brockwellgreenhouses.org.uk

Discover the Story of Florence Nightingale, Florence Nightingale Museum, SE1 7EW 11.30am, 12.45pm and 2pm. Meet Miss Nightingale and hear all about how she became known as the ‘Lady with the Lamp’. Find out how she became a nurse, why she went to the Crimea and how she improved the conditions for the soldiers and nurses. For more information visit www.florence-nightingale.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

Song of the Dolphin Boy Finn has always been different and in the tiny fishing village of Stromhead he sticks out like a sore thumb. Told to keep away from the water, he’s always felt that something was missing until one day he dives in and finds that when swimming with dolphins he feels completely at home. However, his new friends are in danger of being injured by the rubbish that floats out in the water and now a supermarket is going to release thousands of balloons that could drift out to sea and cause even more damage. Desperate to help the dolphins, Finn goes to the Lighthouse Crew, a group of kids who have always left Finn out. Will they be able to set aside their differences to save the dolphins? And what will Finn discover about his past along the way? Song of the Dolphin Boy was inspired by an underwater documentary maker and friend of the author, Elizabeth Laird. The friend confessed his worries about the state of the oceans following a trip to film marine wildlife in Borneo. Elizabeth was inspired, wanting to help in some way by educating her young readers on the importance of looking after the oceans. Elizabeth worked closely with the Aberdeen University Lighthouse Field Station in Cromarty whilst writing the novel, learning about plastic in the ocean and dolphin behaviours. Song of the Dolphin Boy will be available online and all good high street stores from 8 March for £6.99. 18

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

“

I saw your event in Primary Times.... Please mention you saw the event listed in Primary Times Thurs 15 Feb

”

Hats of Faith, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

11am and 1.30pm. Children ages 4-6 are invited to take part in a thrilling memory game based on the new interfaith children’s book, Hats of Faith, which explores the shared custom of head covering. For more information and to book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

Actors Bootcamp, Polka Theatre, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB

10.30am-3.30pm. Work with a professional actor and get put through your acting paces. Try out acting techniques and exercises that explore character, physicality and improvisation and explore some fun acting, games and warm ups. Ages 8-14. To book visit www. polkatheatre.com

Thurs 15 – Fri 16 Feb Draw Your Own Black Superhero, Black Cultural Archives, Brixton, SW2 1EF

11am-12.30pm Thurs (ages 5-8) and 1-2.15pm Fri (ages 9-12). The widely anticipated Black Panther Movie is upon us. To celebrate, BCA are teaming up with the All Knightz to inspire and teach a new generation of children the art behind drawing Black Superheroes. For more information and to book visit www. blackculturalarchives.org

SMASHfest UK: Flood!, The Albany, Deptford, SE8 4AG

Fri 16 Feb

The Great Race, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

11am and 1.30pm. Christopher Corr presents an interactive workshop for children aged 6-8 where they can discover and explore the origins of Chinese New Year. For more information and to book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

Play in a Day, Polka Theatre, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB

10.30am-3.30pm. Create your very own play in just one day to perform to family and friends. Ages 5-7. For more information and to book visit www.polkatheatre.com

Sat 17 Feb

The Pirates of Scurvy Sands, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

11am. Writer Jonny Duddle invites children aged 5-7 to celebrate hilarious pirate voyages as he introduces them to his new book, The Pirate of Scurvy Sands. Ages 5-7. For more information and to book visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Big Brown Bear’s Cave, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

2pm. Author and illustrator Yuval Zommer presents a thrilling reading of his Big Brown Bear’s Cave books for children up to age 5. For more information and to book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

Family Learning Activity, Tower Bridge Exhibition, SE1 2UP 10.30am-4pm. Go along and enjoy some fun, hands on family activities at Tower Bridge. All activities are drop in and are free with admission. Suitable for all ages but most appropriate for ages 6-10. For more information visit www.towerbridge. org.uk

The Year of the Dog, Unicorn Theatre, Southwark, SE1 2HZ 12noon-2pm. Celebrate Chinese New Year with colourful arts and dog themed crafts. Ages 3+. For more information visit www. unicorntheatre.com

Let’s Get Twiggy, Brockwell Park Community Greenhouses, Herne Hill, SE24 0PA 10.30am-12.30pm. Make your very own journey stick to tell the story of your woodland finds, and discover many other activities that you can do with twigs. For more information and to book visit www. brockwellgreenhouses.org.uk

Sat 17 – Sun 18 Feb Chinese New Year Craft Workshops, Greenwich Market, SE10 9HZ

11am-3pm. Celebrate the Year of the Dog by making your own paper dog or a pretty paper Chinese lantern at these free origami workshops outside Papermoon in the Market. No need to book. For more information visit www. greenwichmarket.london

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

Film Preview Guide Disney Pixar’s Coco

Coco is about a 12-year-old boy with big dreams. Miguel is an aspiring singer and self-taught guitarist who dreams of following in the footsteps of his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz, the most famous musician in the history of Mexico. However, Miguel’s family forbids music.When Miguel unearths a secret from his family’s past—a connection to Ernesto de la Cruz, he rushes to share the news with his family, thinking it will clear the way for him to be a musician.To his surprise, it only makes matters worse. As events unfold on Mexico’s ‘Day of the Dead’, Miguel is forced to team up with a scrappy, streetwise skeleton named Héctor and they set out to ﬁnd Ernesto de la Cruz, who they believe holds the key to Miguel’s bafﬂing and decidedly unmusical family history. Disney Pixar’s Coco is in cinemas now. Photo credit: 2017 Disney.Pixar

Early Man

Early Man is the new prehistoric comedy adventure from director Nick Park and Aardman, the creators of Wallace and Gromit and Shaun the Sheep. Shot in Aardman’s own distinctive style, the ﬁlm will take audiences on an extraordinary journey into an exciting new world unleashing an unforgettable tribe of unique and funny new characters. Set at the dawn of time, when prehistoric creatures roamed the Earth, Early Man tells the story of courageous caveman hero Dug, voiced by Eddie Redmayne, and his best friend Hognob as they unite his tribe against a mighty enemy, Lord Nooth and his Bronze Age City, to save their home. Leading Dug’s tribe of lovable misﬁts is Chief Bobnar who is joined by Treebor, Magma, Asbo, Barry, Gravelle, Eemak and Grubup. Maisie Williams voices Goona, the gallant rebel who befriends Dug and helps the tribe in their battle to beat the Bronze Age. Also joining the stellar cast is Rob Brydon, who voices the Message Bird - an ingenious Bronze Age communication device. Catch Early Man in cinemas now.

Tad the Lost Explorer and the Secret of King Midas

After Sara Lavroff discovers one of the three gold rings from King Midas’ necklace, proving that this ruler who turned everything he touched into gold really did exist,Tadeo, the most awkward explorer, travels to Las Vegas to join his friend at the exhibition where this incredible archaeological discovery will be revealed for the ﬁrst time ever.Tadeo and Sara’s happy reunion turns sour when villain, Jack Rackham, and his crew of bandits steal the jewel and kidnap the young archaeologist, knowing full well that whoever puts the three rings from King Midas’ necklace back together again will inherit his power and immense wealth. Tadeo will have to be clever in order to save Sara and destroy Rackham’s wicked plans. His travels will take him halfway around the world, through Spain, Greece and Turkey, alongside his friends the Mummy, Belzoni the parrot, his dog Jeff and the latest cast of characters to join the adventure. Tad the Lost Explorer will be in cinemas from 9 February.

Monster Family

Based on David Safier’s best-selling novel, Monster Family follows the very unhappy Wishbone clan.With a struggling bookshop, an overworked husband and two misunderstood teenagers, Emma is at her wit’s end trying to be the perfect mom to a family who are constantly at each other’s throats. In an attempt to reconnect the family, Emma drags the clan to a costume party, but the plan backfires when they are cursed by an evil witch and transformed into their own monstrous costumes.The Wishbone family must pull together to battle real-life beasts, reverse the curse and prove that even a vampire, a mummy, a werewolf and Frankenstein’s monster can eventually form one big happy family. When the Wishbones snap, only love can stitch them back together. Emma has to fight to keep her Monster Family together and uncover the secret of their curse, eventually leading them to the Prince of Darkness himself, Dracula. Featuring the voices of Catherine Tate and Nick Frost, watch a monster family become human again.This family blockbuster comes to cinemas on 2 March.

The Highway Rat

From the creators of The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom and Stick Man,The Highway Rat will be available on DVD from 5 February. The beautifully animated ﬁlm seen on BBC One this Christmas is a swashbuckling adventure of bandits and biscuits based on the richly imaginative book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Schefﬂer.The Highway Rat tells the tale of a ravenous rat who craves buns, biscuits and all things sweet.Tearing along the highway, he searches for sugary treats to steal until his sweet tooth leads him to a sticky end. The sweetly satisfying animation features the voice talents of an all-star, home grown cast including David Tennant, Rob Brydon, Frances De La Tour and Tom Hollander.An instant classic the whole family can enjoy,The Highway Rat will be available from Amazon and other online stores.

Win Jungle Bunch Goodies & DVD Join in the jungle adventure with Maurice and his friends by winning a whole host of fun merchandise including Jungle Bunch badges, t-shirts, a safari hat and binoculars. One lucky winner will win all this as well as The Jungle Bunch on DVD, and four runners up can also win the DVD. Maurice may look like an emperor penguin but he’s a real tiger inside. Raised by a tigress, he’s the clumsiest Kung-Fu master ever. Along with his friends, the Jungle Bunch, he intends to maintain order and justice in the jungle, just as his mother did before him. But, Igor, an evil koala, wants to destroy the jungle once and for all with help from his army of silly baboons. The Jungle Bunch is out on Digital and DVD now!

To be in with the chance of winning, tell us what kind of animal the evil Igor is? Send your answer to us along with your name, age, address, school and phone number to

The Jungle Bunch Competition, Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London SE12 8LG or email your answer together with your details to competitions@primarytimes.biz with ‘The Jungle Bunch’ as the subject by Friday 2 March.

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for February and March

February Sun 18 Feb

Pansy Boy Workshops, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

11am and 1.30pm. Children can join Paul Harfleet for an hour-long creative workshop, where he will speak about the making of Pansy Boy, the nature of The Pansy Project and they can learn how to draw some of Paul’s beautiful creations. Ages 8-12. To book visit www.southbankcentre. co.uk

Make IT Move with the BFI, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

1pm. In partnership with Southbank Centre’s neighbours, the BFI, children age 7+ can learn all about stopmotion animation filmmaking in this fun workshop. Free. For more information and to book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

Kid Normal, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

2pm. Debut authors Greg James and Chris Smith will create a brand new superhero story with lots of games,

singing and audience participation. Musical accompaniment is provided by the super-talented Dave Cribb. Ages 7+. For more information and to book visit www.southbankcentre. co.uk

Chinese New Year, Various Locations

The festivities kick off with a vibrant parade in and around Chinatown, followed by spectacular free stage performances in Trafalgar Square. Enjoy martial art displays, familyfriendly cultural activities, music shows and traditional Chinese street food in different zones dotted around the West End. For more information visit www.london.gov.uk

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

“

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

”

Mon 19 Feb – Sat 31 Mar

Defend the Tower!, Tower of London, EC3N 4AB

11.30am, 1.30pm and 3.30pm. England’s greatest medieval fortress, is under attack from all sides! You must help the heroic guards defend the mighty castle against its most dangerous enemies from 200 years of medieval conflict. For more information visit www.hrp.org.uk/ tower-of-london

Sat 24 Feb

Moonlight Walk, Various Locations in Croydon

Sign in at 6pm. Join in a moonlight walk to raise vital funds for St Christopher’s Hospice. The walk will be 4 miles long and will start and finish at Coloma Convent School. Under 12s free. For more information and to register visit www.stchristophers.org.uk

Sun 25 Feb

Paddington 2 Funday, BFI Southbank, SE1 8XT

At 11am there will be a drop-in Paddington themed arts and crafts workshop in the foyer followed by screening of Paddington 2 at 1pm. For more information and to book visit whatson.bfi.org.uk

FUNharmonics Family Concert, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX 12noon. The London Philharmonic Orchestra invites you to a supersized orchestral party celebrating the best of young music-making. There will also be Free FUNharmonics activities: 10am–12 noon. For more information and to book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

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

2-4pm. Wade in a wild river and experience a different perspective of

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

World Book Day 2018: Save the Date The world’s biggest celebration of reading for pleasure, World Book Day, returns on Thursday 1 March. On a mission to encourage children and young people to read and love books, World Book Day will once again play host to a stellar line-up of authors, illustrators and events across the country for its 21st annual celebration. This year’s theme ‘Share a Story’ intends to mobilise the nation to ‘Take 10’ and recognise the positive impact that reading together for only 10 minutes a day can have on a child’s learning. Parents, teachers and children are encouraged to go beyond dressing up on World Book Day to reignite a love of shared reading and the sense of wellbeing that it brings. As always, there will be exciting new books from bestselling children’s authors and illustrators for children to explore, including 11 titles released for just £1. Children can purchase these using their World Book Day tokens and set off on their 2018 reading adventure. With titles suited to a range of different ages and abilities, from classics like Mr Men and Paddington Books to new releases from Clare Balding and Tom Fletcher for more advanced readers, there is something for everyone. Alongside activity on World Book Day itself, the charity will also be running a national tour of author/illustrator events around the country in ‘The Biggest Book Show on Earth’, from 26 February to 3 March, and bringing back the incredibly successful World Book Day Award (WoBoD) for the fourth time. The WoBoD competition involved over 76,000 children, their families and communities in 2017 and £25,000 of Walker books were won. World Book Day marks the world’s biggest celebration of reading, where the nation’s entire book industry comes together to work proactively to address falling literacy levels and create the readers of the future. Last year, over £650,000 was raised for charity by World Book Day and over 1.2 million £1 book tokens were redeemed, enabling 1 in 4 children (1 in 3 for those receiving free school meals) to ‘purchase’ their first ever book. Book tokens will be sent out to schools across the UK and Ireland in late February and can be used to claim a free World Book Day title in participating bookshops and supermarkets until 25 March.Visit www.worldbookday. com to see the full list of books and events.

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

An Interview with Lisa Thompson Lisa Thompson, author of The Goldﬁsh Boy, has just released her second book, The Light Jar. A story of fear and hope, loneliness and friendship – the Light Jar is full of heart, engaging characters and propulsive mystery. Nate and his mother are running away, hiding out in a tumbledown cottage in the middle of a forest. When Mum heads off for provisions and then doesn’t return, Nate is left alone and afraid. But comfort can come from the most unexpected places – a mysterious girl trying to solve the clues of a treasure hunt and the reappearance of an old friend from the past. The Light Jar is a brilliant mix of page-turning tension and heart-warming relationships leaving you beaming as you’re reading. Rachel Benson from Primary Times spoke to Lisa just after the book’s release.

When writing The Light Jar, what message did you want to leave your readers with? I think that you can ﬁnd hope in the most unexpected of places, and not to be too judgemental of people.You may not know what has happened in the past and Nate judges people when he doesn’t know what’s going on in their lives.

Which characters do you most relate to and why? There’s a little bit of me in everyone. Nate’s freaky facts book was very much my kind of thing. I used to love all of those weird books and I would bore my parents to tears with them! I suppose I’m more like Nate and his Mum in trying to make the best of things, I’m quite good at that. In a bad situation I like to look on the bright side. Nate doesn’t always do that, but he does cope in his own way and I think I’d be the same.

The Light Jar is available online and from all good high street retailers for £6.99. For more information visit, lisathompsonauthor.com.

Your book ‘The Goldfish Boy’ is also available as an audiobook. Will The Light Jar be available in this format too? I don’t know! I love the radio, and listening to podcasts. There are so many books I want to read and no time to do it, and I think with audiobooks it’s the power of your ears that make it so special. Listening is like reading a book, you create the pictures in your mind. I don’t think we realise the power of the medium.

What inspires you when writing your books? I ﬁnd music really inspiring to listen to when writing. I never used to because I thought you shouldn’t, but I remember reading that Stephen King listens to loud rock music when he writes, and then I read about more and more authors who listen to music so they can zone out of the world. The Light Jar came about from a tweet I read. Somebody tweeted ‘There are no ghosts, just imaginary friends who have been abandoned’. It made me wonder what happened to imaginary friends when they’re not needed anymore and it spiralled from there. A couple of lines can be enough to push you to write a full length novel.

Was there a particular soundtrack you listened to when writing The Light Jar? There were two songs that I listened to all the time. One was the main theme from The Revenant, it’s a really haunting theme. I listened to that a lot in the really bleak parts of the book, and Mr Blue Sky was for the uplifting parts. It’s even referenced in one of the scenes.

Have you got any advice for any young, budding writers? I found that writing was a way to live out a dream. Try short stories. The Goldfish Boy came from one so you never know where they’re going to lead. Write something that you want to read, don’t try and write to fit a formula. That way you may find it easier to do.

What is next for you? I’m writing book three now, which is hopefully out this time next year… if I ﬁnish it in time!

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for February and March

February London history and urban wildlife. Ages 9+. For more information and to book visit www.creeksidecentre. org.uk

Storytime Sunday, The Bright Emporium, Clapham, SW11 1SY

10.30am-12noon. Join in this fantastic Original Bright Workshop run by the authors and illustrators behind your favourite books. Today’s session will be: Marta Kissi with ‘Mummy Fairy and Me’. Ages 5-8. For more information and to book visit www. thebrightemporium.com

March

(Also 10-11, 17-18 and 24-25 Mar) 9.15-10am Sat and 9-9.45am Sun. All the mess, all the fun, but none of the tidying up! Perfect for mini artists in the making aged 1-4. For more information and to book visit www. thebrightemporium.com

Sun 4 Mar

Draw, Build, Play, The Bright Emporium, Clapham, SW11 1SY (Also 10-11, 18 and 24-25 Mar) Stimulate the imagination with the Emporium’s books and get creating. Draw what you want to make, build your drawing to life, then for the fun part - play with what you’ve made. Ages 5-8. For more information and to book visit www. thebrightemporium.com

Cat & Hutch, The Bright Emporium, Clapham, SW11 1SY

Thurs 1 Mar

World Book Day, Nationwide

Join in this celebration of authors, illustrators, books and (most importantly) a celebration of reading. For more information, fun stuff, news and games visit www.worldbookday. com

Sat 3 Mar

Sandcastle Art, Unicorn Theatre, Southwark, SE1 2HZ

(Also 10 Mar) 12noon-2pm. The favourite sandy show is back and you’ll be building sandcastles to celebrate. Watch Seesaw and then join in for some sandy art. Ages 3+. For more information visit www. unicorntheatre.com

Make a Plaster Plaque, Brockwell Park Community Greenhouses, Herne Hill, SE24 0PA

10.30am-12.30pm. Explore the beauty of nature at this special workshop, as you collect interesting natural materials from the garden to press into clay.You will then make your own plaster plaques to take home. For more information and to book visit www.brockwellgreenhouses. org.uk

Mega Makers, The Bright Emporium, Clapham, SW11 1SY (Also 17 and 31 Mar) 10.30am. Proving that even the mundane can be used to make something spectacular! Transform everyday materials into the unexpected. Ages 5-8. For more information and to book visit www.thebrightemporium. com

(Also 18 Mar) 10.30am. In these workshops you will use different drama games to jump into the story and discover new worlds and characters. For more information and to book visit www. thebrightemporium.com

The Little Half, Various Locations

Starting at 12.45pm at Southwark Park. A fun, family friendly mass participation event that will see 4,000 people come together to take on a 2.4 mile course, part of the Big Half Festival. The Little Half is not a race so you can just take part and have fun. For more information and to apply visit www.thebighalf.co.uk

Sat 10 Mar

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+. For more information and to book visit www.creeksidecentre. org.uk

Mothers’ Day, Greenwich Market, SE10 9HZ

Make something beautiful for Mum to show her just how much you love her at these free craft workshops. For more information visit www. greenwichmarket.london

I Can Draw, The Bright Emporium, Clapham, SW11 1SY (Also 24 Mar) 10.30am. The Bright Emporium believe everyone can draw. In this workshop learn the tips

Build a Story, The Bright Emporium, Clapham, SW11 1SY

(Also 17 and 31 Mar) 11.30am. Using the mighty LEGO® brick, create the landscapes, characters and plot - building up stories as you go. Ages 5-8. For more information and to book visit www.thebrightemporium. com

Sat 3 – Sun 4 Mar

Messy Toddlers, The Bright Emporium, Clapham, SW11 1SY 22

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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

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from the trade and get drawing. Ages 5-8. For more information and to book visit www.thebrightemporium. com

Shadows, test your thinking skills, search the museum for clues and crack our code. Will you discover the secret? For more information visit www.nam.ac.uk

Sat 17 – Fri 23 Mar

Sport Relief, Nationwide

Whether you run, walk or even dance, whatever moves you, do it for Sport Relief and help change lives. To get a head start, pre-order your free Fundraising Pack. For more information visit www.sportrelief. com

Sun 11 Mar

The Head of the River Race, Chiswick to Putney Bridge

Races start 10.15am. Watch over 300 boats from round the country competing against each other. Pack your picnic and arrive at least 45 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot along the banks of the Thames. The women’s race is on 10th and the schools’ race is on 12th. www.horr.co.uk

Wondrous Woodlands Dads’ Day, Sydenham Hill Wood, SE26 6LS

11am-4pm. A free fun family day for fathers and their children learning about the trees in Sydenham Hill Wood, making dens and gathering around a fire for marshmallows. Book on 020 3897 6151. For more information visit www.wildlondon. org.uk

Storytime Sunday World Book Day Special, The Bright Emporium, Clapham, SW11 1SY

10.30am-12noon. Join in this fantastic Original Bright Workshop run by the authors and illustrators behind your favourite books. Today’s session will be: Clair Rossiter with ‘Nadiya’s Bake me a Story’. Ages 5-8. For more information and to book visit www. thebrightemporium.com

Fri 16 – Sun 18 Mar

London St Patrick’s Day Festival 2018, Various Locations in Central London

A three day festival which will include amongst other activities, an Irish Community and Culture Festival, film screenings, a Schools art project, children’s treasure trails as well as the St Patrick’s Day Parade and St Patrick’s Day on Trafalgar Square. For more information visit www.london. gov.uk

Sat 17 Mar

Mini Maestro Family Concert, St Martin in the Fields, WC2N 4JJ

4.30-5.30pm. Go on a journey through Mozart’s marvellous symphony and hear the instruments telling a story – with a sprinkling of Handel’s Water Music. For more information and to book visit www. stmartin-in-the-fields.org

Sat 17 – Sun 18 Mar

Break the Code, National Army Museum, Chelsea, SW3 4HT

10.30am-12.30pm and 1.30-4.30pm. To mark the opening of our new exhibition Special Forces: Out of the

Sat 17 Mar–Sun 18 Nov In the Shadows, National Army Museum, Chelsea, SW3 4HT

This major exhibition presents ideas of security and secrecy through the lens of British Special Forces. Discover who these elite soldiers are, the skills they need, and the operations they’ve undertaken. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www.nam.ac.uk

Sun 18 Mar

Where’s Wally? Fun Run, Clapham Common, SW4 9DE

The annual Where’s Wally? fun run will be returning with three races: 10K, 5K and a 1K race for children under 12. Runners and supporters will enjoy live music, a range of food stalls, a book sale, face painting and fun rides and games for kids. To register visit www.literacytrust.org.uk

Sat 24 Mar

The Cancer Research UK Oxford and Cambridge Boat Races, Various Locations

4.31pm and 5.31pm. Watched by thousands along the banks of the Tideway, between Putney and Mortlake in London, and by millions more on TV, The Cancer Research UK Boat Races are a unique sporting event between two rowing crews from Oxford and Cambridge universities. For more information visit www.theboatraces.org

Sun 25 Mar

Library Lion, Deptford Lounge, SE8 4RH 1pm and 3pm. Everyone knows rules have to be followed, especially in libraries. No running allowed. And you must be quiet. But what would happen if a lion came to storytime? With songs, laughter, lots of joining in, and maybe even a big furry hug. Ages 4+. To buy tickets visit www. thealbany.org.uk

Our next copy deadline is

2 March 2018.

All About YOU!

Oscar Ninh aged 7

Riyon Perera aged 8

Coakley, Amber Youssef competitions in our Winter/Christmas issue. Oliver Congratulations to the following people who won Bonnie Allen won Tangled and ngton Warri n on won Ferdinand goodies. Imoge Mnari, Josephine Roberts, Leo Everard and Ella Clerks n winners were ale won Cars photomurals.Lego Ninjago competitio photomurals and Stanley Jones and Benjamin Bleasd ns. Guinness World Records Goody Bags Matthew Clarke, Oliver Coakley and Harry Macki If you would like to see , Charlie Doherty, Luna Woodbridge, White ie Frank d, were won by Hibah Swaleh Ahme Freakley-Creaser, Stanley your work displayed Chloe uire, Macq nn igh-A Kayle za, D'Sou en Jessica Salter, Kathle Annie Drawing Competition for the the here then just send us a won 7 aged Ninh Oscar v. Uzuno e Georg Owen and our older group. Well done to all our prize drawing, poem, riddles, younger group and Riyon Perera aged 8. won it for jokes or short story and winners and enjoy the artwork on this page.

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 Jaime Vince for the lovely trees drawing, Jocelyn Liu for her clever French drawing, Esther Chana for her fun rocket and Michael for his cute caterpillar. We love seeing your work so do please keep sending it to us.

G F R E E Z I N G P

N F H G L O V E O M

I C B D B D X M S R

T I L E K O P P N O

A T I L C O L D O T

K C Z S M W S D W S

S R Z H R E T N I W

E A A Q F R A C S O

C T R C R I J K C N

What did Frosty call his cow? Eskimoo!

What do you call an old snowman? Water!

Copy the Picture and Colour it in

I V D G O F T G L S

Can you find the following words in the word search Winter, Cold, Freezing, Snow, PomPomHat, Glove, Scarf, Fog, Blizzard, Sledge, Iceskating, Arctic, Snowstorm, Firewood

Answers

Winter Word Search

Spot the Differences

lownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Winter Warmer

In picture B, the first hat and scarf set has two ends to the scarf, the 4th hat along has some eyes, the 5th scarf has lost its ends, the first hat in the second row has a pompom, the 2nd hat sets gloves have been flipped, the 4th hat has been changed to red. On the 3rd row the second hat includes sun glasses, the final hat has lost its pompom.

Katie

What do you get if you cross a snowman and a shark? Frost Bite!

Spot the Eight Differences

What is a snowmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite drink? Ice Tea!

Draw a picture of anything to do with Winter. Send it to us to have a chance of winning a Primary Times Tee Shirt AND seeing your prize winning entry published in the next Primary Times! Categories: ages 4-7 and 8-11 Name: Age: Address:

Postcode: School:

Send your entry together with this completed form to: Annie's Competition, Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London, SE12 8LG Closing date: 2 March 2018. Good Luck!