South West London Christmas/Winter 2018 Primary Times by Alison Watson

e e r f

IDE U G N O ’S T A H W

for families with primary aged children

in South West London Winter Edition • Issue 117 • 26 November 2018 - 3 February 2019

The Best Family Guide to What’s On

Thu 6 Dec - Sun 6 Jan

Written by Ciaran McConville Music & lyrics by Eamonn Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Dwyer Directed by Rosie Jones

Freckle Productions and Rose Theatre Kingston present

Thu 14 - Sat 23 Feb Box Office 020 8174 0090 Visit rosetheatrekingston.org Celebrating 10 years of world-class theatre

Wed 10 - Sun 21 Apr

Dear Readers Primary Times in South West London 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG Tel: 020 8318 0400 Email: office@primarytimes.biz Website: www.primarytimes.co.uk Twitter: @PT_LondonSandE Instagram: @primarytimesse Publishing Editor: Peter Watson Sales: Andrew Langridge, Gill Pearce, Lola Olowofela & Catherine Dillon Listings: Dingile Kasote Production: Alison Watson Office Manager: Chris Blower Administrators: Claire Wood & Tina Love Editorial Assistant: Dunya Simões Proof Reader: Catherine Draisey Social Media: Rachel Benson Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in primary, infant, junior and middle schools throughout the boroughs of Kingston upon Thames, Merton, Richmond upon Thames, Sutton & Wandsworth. 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. 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 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 West London is operated under franchise licence.

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

Contents

inside this issue.... News.........................................4 What’s On.................................6 Family Theatre......................... 11 Whatever the Weather................ 17 Out of School Activities..............22 Education News......................25 Competitions...........................27 All Your Own Work!.................30

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

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

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

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

Ingredients:

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

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

Method:

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

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

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

News

Love Food? Then You’ll Love JRC

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

At this time of year, JRC’s international dining experience really comes into its own. With colder days and longer nights, catching up with friends and family over a delicious meal is a must. JRC’s chefs cook hundreds of dishes from all over the world from India to China, Italy to Japan and plenty of places in between meaning there’s something for everyone – even the fussiest of eaters. Kids and adults alike love the desserts section especially the chocolate fountain. With live cooking stations where you can watch chefs freshly prepare your meal, not to mention the fact you can enjoy as much as you like for one set price, isn’t it time you popped in? As if that isn’t enough, from 26 November to 30 December during dinner service you can enjoy Roast Lamb, Salmon, Rib of Beef and Roast Turkey with all the trimmings as well as all your JRC favourites from around the globe. So go on, indulge and worry about the diet in January! JRC’s stylish yet casual restaurants are the perfect location for a festive meal to remember. So book your table today.Visit the website, www.jrc-globalbuffet.com/ christmas-specials, for details of the latest offers.

Eden Walk Shopping Competition Lambeth Marks Holocaust Memorial Day

Lambeth’s 2019 Holocaust Memorial Day ceremony will take place on Sunday 27 January, and will return this year to the Lambeth Assembly Hall following its refurbishment. This event, to be attended by the Mayor of Lambeth, Cllr Christopher Wellbelove, will remember, honour and share stories from those persecuted in the Holocaust and subsequent genocides. The theme for 2019 set by the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust is “Torn from Home” and, in these turbulent times, prompts us to focus on all those who have had to flee their homes, the relevance of the Holocaust and subsequent genocides and our individual responsibility not to be bystanders to homelessness, hate crime and prejudice. The audience will hear from Holocaust survivor, George Vulkan. There will also be contributions from Dunraven School, from the Corpus Christi School Choir and from St Leonard’s Primary School. The event will run from 3pm to 4.30pm (doors open at 2.30pm) with closing words from the Leader of Lambeth Council, Cllr Lib Peck. Attendance at the Commemoration is free and all are welcome.

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

Don’t miss out on Eden Walk’s Letter to Santa competition where you can win tickets to see Hansel and Gretel. The magical fairy tale tells the story of siblings, Hansel and Gretel, who are children to a poor woodcutter and his wife. When famine strikes, the parents plan to abandon their children in the woods so as not to have to feed them. Hansel and Gretel leave trails to lead them back home, but one of their trails, made from breadcrumbs, is eaten by birds. Hansel and Gretel are lost, and start to follow a beautiful white bird to lead them back home. For your chance to win, all you have to do is write to Santa telling him why Hansel and Gretel were not able to find their way home after being left in the woods. Write the answer on a letter with the name, age and address and pop it into Eden Walk’s Special Post Box which delivers it first class to the North Pole. Competitors have until 6pm on 17 December to enter. As a thank you, Santa will reply to every letter with a small gift (while stocks last) and the winner of the competition will win a family ticket to see Rose Theatre’s Hansel and Gretel. For more information, please visit www.edenwalkshopping. co.uk

This December, Harlequins will again look to set the rugby world alight as they make their now customary trip across the A316 to Twickenham Stadium for the 11th instalment of Big Game. A firm favourite in the festive sporting calendar, this year’s match will see Harlequins take on historic rivals Wasps in Round 11 of the Gallagher Premiership – an encounter that is set to be a thriller. The award-winning Big Game 11 prides itself on being a day out for all the family, as spectacular musical performances, jawdropping pyrotechnics and activities fit for all ages combines with first class sport at one of the world’s most iconic stadiums. Falling between Christmas and New Year, Big Game is the ultimate day out and the perfect opportunity to round-off Christmas by bringing your family, friends and colleagues together for a full day of entertainment both inside and outside the stadium. Before kick-off, supporters can enjoy exciting activities in the West Fan Village whilst those in the stadium can marvel at the performances of the Big Game pre-match show. Previous acts include Scouting for Girls, Rudimental and Olly Murs, whilst the annual, eccentric match ball delivery has continued to stun supporters with their use of tight-rope-walkers, cannons, hovercrafts and even birds of prey. Big Game will take place on Saturday 29 December (kick off at 4pm). Tickets to the fixture are £25 for adults and £15 for juniors and can be purchased at tickets.quins.co.uk or on 020 8410 6010.

Separated Parent Support Workshops

News

Old Rivals at Twickenham this Christmas

Dealing with divorce or separation is a dramatic, life-changing experience for everyone so, as a parent, navigating your way through this complex, emotional journey can be even more challenging.That’s why it’s so important to find the right specialist support as early as possible because the better you cope, the better your kids will too. Kids Come First workshops offer parents support and guidance at every stage of their separation. For more details about how they are helping families in your community visit www. kidscomefirstuk.co.uk. Kids Come First is sponsored by Greenacres Childcare who believe that every child is an individual that has their own interests and needs and will develop at their own pace.They provide a stimulating and fun environment in which the children can explore and practise their skills in a safe and exciting atmosphere. Greenacres quality childcare day nurseries, pre-schools and crèches can be found at High Street, Hampton Hill TW12 1NJ (020 8941 8608), Oldfield Road, Hampton TW12 2HD (020 3068 0048), 68 Priory Road, Hampton TW12 2PN (020 8941 1493) and Ripley Road, Hampton TW12 2JH (020 8783 1400).

Sponsored by Greenacres Childcare in Hampton/Hampton Hill.

From the 26th November to 30th December 2018, enjoy a festive feast buffet including roast leg of lamb, roast rib of beef, grilled whole salmon and roast turkey with all the trimmings!* SO GATHER YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY AND BOOK A TABLE NOW AT YOUR NEAREST JRC GLOBAL BUFFET! *(valid at Watford, Wembley, Southampton, Croydon, and Ilford)

JRCGlobalBuffet

JRC_Buffet

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

What’s On

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

Ongoing Every Sun

Tales from the Temperate Lands, Royal Botanical Gardens Kew, Richmond, TW9 3AE 12noon, 1pm and 2pm. Children’s storyteller Kevin Graal tells captivating tales about temperate plants and trees around the world. Admission charges apply. For more details and to book visit www.kew. org/kew-gardens

Until 30 Nov

Tremendous Tree Family Trail, Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD

10am-3pm. A new trail with six activities for family fun. Complete all of them to discover more about trees and experience autumn with your senses. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park

Santa’s Grotto, Woodcote Green, Wallington, SM6 0SU

Make this Christmas extra special with a trip to visit Santa in his magical Grotto. The journey begins with a stroll through Candy Lane where the animated candy kids and their bear friends are ready to wish you a warm welcome. Charges apply. For more details visit www.woodcotegreen. com

Santa’s Grotto, Squires Garden Centre, Twickenham, TW2 5PA Go along and meet Santa in his magical grotto and receive an early Christmas present. Charges apply. For more details visit www. squiresgardencentres.co.uk

Until 27 Dec

South Bank Winter Market, nr Queen’s Walk, under Hungerford Bridge, SE1 8XX

Eat, drink and be merry beside the River Thames at the Winter Market. Expect seasonal goodies, sparkling Until 14 Dec lights, mulled wine and that festive Garden History Tours, Ham House and Garden, Richmond, feeling. For more information visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

TW10 7RS

11.30am-2pm. Discover more about the gardens at Ham House and their 17th century design on one of our garden history tours. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hamhouse-and-garden

Until 16 Dec

Visit Father Christmas, Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD (Selected dates). Children can draw and send their wish lists to Father Christmas via a special postcard express. They will meet Father Christmas and his elves in an enchanted grotto to receive a special gift. Charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/morden-hall-park

Until 20 Dec

Winter Art Exhibition, Putney Arts Theatre, SW15 6AW

A group of artists present a wide range of original festive art. For more details visit www.putneyartstheatre. org.uk

Until 31 Dec

Bird Feed with a Warden, WWT London Wetland Centre, SW13 9WT

(Weekends only) Join the wardens as they feed the beautiful water birds from around the globe. Discover more about WWT’s conservation work and the birds we are helping to save from extinction. For more details visit www.wwt.org.uk

Until 1 Jan

Christmas at ZSL London Zoo, NW1 4RY

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

Until 24 Dec

Santa’s Christmas Wonderland Experience, Chessington Garden Centre, KT9 2NG

Following his spectacular arrival, Father Christmas will be in residence at the Centre. Embark on a fantastical journey to meet Father Christmas in his traditional grotto. Charges apply. For more details visit www. chessingtongardencentre.co.uk

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

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

“

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

Until 5 Jan

”

Alice in Winterland, Southwark Park, SE16 2TX 3-10pm. This fully immersive experience is perfect festive fun for all the family, whatever your age. From a life-size chessboard with Alice pawns to the iconic Mad Hatter’s tea party, there are ways to get involved throughout the experience. To book visit www.aliceinwinterland.co.uk

Christmas at Kew, Royal Botanical Gardens Kew, Richmond, TW9 3AE

Follow the sparkling trail of over one million twinkling lights, illuminating heritage trees and buildings through the world-famous Gardens. Enter an enchanting world of seasonal cheer and Christmas colour. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www.kew.org/kew-gardens

Until 6 Jan

Skate Back In Time, Hampton Court Palace, KT8 9AU Enjoy the seasonal atmosphere as you skate against a backdrop of one of the greatest palaces on earth – Henry VIII’s historic home. The open-air ice rink epitomises the very best in festive fun. Ages 3+. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www. hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk

Arts and Crafts, Ham House and Garden, Richmond, TW10 7RS

12noon-4pm. With a range of themed art activities throughout the year, a trip Below Stairs is not to be missed on your next family day out. All art and craft equipment is provided. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ ham-house-and-garden

Until 31 Jan

Winter Walkies, Ham House and Garden, Richmond, TW10 7RS

10am-5pm. Four legged friends will be allowed in Ham’s garden all year round. There will be walking routes available from Visitor Reception and a free treat for every new canine guest. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ ham-house-and-garden

Until 3 Feb

Through the Hoops: Croquet at Wimbledon, Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum, SW19 5AG

Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum’s collection contains over 20,000 objects that chronicle the history of lawn tennis from a popular pastime to the world class sporting tournament that is The Championships. Charges apply. For more information visit www. wimbledon.com

Until 16 Jun

Spanish Flu Exhibition, Florence Nightingale Museum, SE1 7EW Journey back in time to a field hospital in 1918 and explore the experiences of those that lived and died during the deadliest pandemic in human history, and discover if a similarly devastating pandemic could happen again today. For more information visit www.florencenightingale.co.uk

November Mon 26 Nov

Little Explorers, Royal Botanical Gardens Kew, Richmond, TW9 3AE

Join in for a fun-packed adventure with games, stories, crafts and dressing up.You’ll find out what makes plants grow, where your food comes from and ways to use plants in our everyday lives. Ages 2-5. For more details and to book visit www. kew.org/kew-gardens

Mon 26 Nov–Sun 30 Dec It’s The Season to Feast, JRC Global Buffet, Croydon, CR0 4YA

Enjoy a festive feast buffet including roast leg of lamb, grilled whole salmon, roast rib of beef and roast turkey with all the trimmings. Charges apply. For more details visit www.jrc-globalbuffet.com

Fri 30 Nov

Horniman Christmas Market, Horniman Museum and Gardens, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ (Also 1 and 2 Dec) The Museum will be filled with stalls and products by independent sellers, local designers and makers. For more information visit www.horniman.ac.uk

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

WE HAVE A DIFFERENT VIEW OF SANTA’S GROTTO

FROM

£16 PP

Could you start your fostering journey this Christmas? Christmas... a time for giving, sharing and caring... and perhaps the time for you to transform the lives of children and young people?

Give us a call, email or visit our website to find out more about becoming a foster carer. Enjoy our Sail with Santa cruise with the whole family This Christmas take your loved ones to meet Santa as they have never done before. Join him as he cruises along the Thames. Enjoy a glass of mulled wine, while children will receive a present alongside a soft drink and a cookie. It's all off the festive sparkle with all of . the sights.

Book online at citycruises.com Or call: 020 77 400 400

020 8298 2800 info@chrysaliscare.org www.chrysaliscarefostering.org

The secret life of our sewers. Come and join us for a free educational trip like no other. From giant filters to cutting edge technology, we reveal the extraordinary journey water makes from your home to our rivers and back to you again.

Interactive workshops Exclusive site tour included In line with the National Curriculum Discover more and book your space today

thameswater.co.uk/southlondonschools

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

What’s On

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

November Putney’s Lights Switch On Party, Putney High Street, SW15 1SN

3-8pm. Enjoy an impressive line-up of performances from local schools and drama groups along with an enchanted 3D Christmas tree forest and more entertainment. Lights will be switched on by world record holder Kiko Matthews. For more details visit www.positivelyputney. co.uk

December Sat 1 Dec

The Time Travel Club - A Victorian Christmas, The National Archives, Kew, TW9 4DU

10.30am-12noon. In this interactive and sensory workshop, find out how Victorian children experienced Christmas, and then make your own decorations and crackers! Ages 7-11. Charges apply. For more information visit www.nationalarchives.gov.uk

Munnings Mural Workshop, National Army Museum, SW3 4HT 10.30am-1pm and 2-4.30pm. Learn more about the life and career of Alfred Munnings and help build up our mural based on his work. For more details visit www.nam.ac.uk

East Dulwich Christmas Cracker, SE22 8HD

11am-5pm. Enjoy a vibrant street festival full of festive cheer. Entertainment includes choirs, bands and performance groups, a children’s Christmas treasure hunt, art trail and more. For more details visit the Dulwich Festival Facebook page.

John Landor’s Mini Maestro Family Concert, St Martin-inthe-Fields, Trafalgar Square, WC2N 4JH

11am-12noon, 4-5pm. Enjoy two timeless children’s classics: Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf and excerpts from Saint-Saën’s Carnival of the Animals, with Flight of the Bumblebee and some Christmas Carols thrown in for good measure. Charges apply. Visit www.stmartin-in-the-fields.org

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

The Secret Woodland Activity Book It’s cold, dark and damp in the woods. Raindrops are dripping off the leaves and down the back of your neck. But it’s cosy and warm inside and you can still have fun in the woodland with The Secret Woodland Activity Book, a beautifully illustrated and immersive Scandinavian-style woodland-themed activity book full of magic and make-believe. This exciting title is packed full of woodland activities for children to do wherever they are. Characters include magical birds, woodland sprites and fairies as well as other more conventional creatures such as bears, owls and foxes. Activities include mazes, paper crafts activities, colouring in, recipes, scenes to create with help from the stickers and treasure maps included, and all with a mystical and magical theme. Creator, Mia Underwood, is a designer and illustrator based in Brighton. She loves a creative challenge and working with traditional and digital illustration as well as creating 3D characters. The Secret Woodland Activity Book comes from Button Books and is suitable for children aged 4-8. It’s published this month at a recommended price of £9.99. 8

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

“

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

Sat 1 – Sun 2 Dec

”

Sail with Santa, City Cruises, Tower Pier, EC3N 4DT

(Also 8, 9, 15 and 16 Dec) 10.45am, 12.45pm, 2.35pm, 4.45pm. Meet Santa on the river Thames as he’s swapped his sleigh for a boat. Fun for everyone with lots of treats from Santa. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www.citycruises. com

Santa Stories and Gingerbread, RHS Garden Wisley, Surrey, GU23 6QB

(Also 8-9, 15-16 and 18-24 Dec) Join Santa for a heart-warming Christmas story, decorate delicious gingerbread and join in with festive crafting activities. Charges apply. For more details visit www.rhs.org.uk/wisley

Time Travel Club, The National Archives, TW9 4DU

In this interactive sensory workshop find out how Victorian children experienced Christmas. Then make your own Christmas decorations and crackers. Ages 7-11. For more details visit www.nationalarchives.gov.uk

Sat 1 – Sun 23 Dec

A Candlelit Christmas, Ham House and Garden, Richmond, TW10 7RS 10am-4pm. Experience the wonderful splendour of Ham House lit by candlelight. Staff will be re-creating the 17th century atmosphere with candles and natural greenery filling the house over the festive season. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ ham-house-and-garden

Sat 1 – Mon 24 Dec

The Whippersnapper Winter Wonderland Experience, Dulwich College Lodge, SE21 7BQ

(Selected dates). Santa’s Elves will greet you at the Garden Gate. With hot chocolate and mince pies they will lead you into a Magical Wonderland World. Wander through the Wyld Woodland and enjoy all that’s in store! For more details and to book visit www. whippersnapperswinterwonderland. co.uk

Father Christmas, Battersea Park Children’s Zoo, SW11 4NJ (Selected dates). Children can play on the swings and slides while they wait to see the man in red. Once they’ve told him what they’d like for Christmas they can head out to see the animals. Charges apply. For more details www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk

Christmas Stocking Search, Battersea Park Children’s Zoo, SW11 4NJ

Be sure to count up the number of Christmas stockings you see. Hand your guess in to the shop for a chance to win a family day ticket to the zoo. Admission charges apply. For more details www.batterseaparkzoo. co.uk

Sat 1 Dec – Wed 2 Jan

Christmas Glow, RHS Garden Wisley, Surrey, GU23 6QB

Wrap up warm, pick up a hot drink and follow the illuminated trail around the garden after dark to discover giant botanical light displays and a festive spectacle in the Glasshouse. Charges apply. For more details visit www.rhs.org.uk/wisley

Sun 2 Dec

Sunday Afternoon Art, Orleans House Gallery, Twickenham, TW1 3DJ

2-3.30pm. Enjoy a relaxed and creative art session for all the family. No booking is necessary. For more information visit www. orleanshousegallery.org

Storytime Sundays, Hampton Court Palace, KT8 9AU

12noon, 1pm, 2.45pm. Enjoy this family fun event and become part of a story. Enjoy a lively, interactive storytelling session based on The Night before Christmas by Clement CY Moore. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www. hrp.org.uk

Wild Life Drawing, The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN

11am-1pm and 2-4pm. Meet and sketch real-life animals with artist and animal-lover Jennie Webber from Wild Life Drawing. Each week will feature different animals! Ages 5-11. Charges apply. For more information visit www.nationalgallery.org.uk

Mon 3 – Wed 19 Dec

Living Nativity, ZSL London Zoo, NW1 4RY

(Weekdays only). A special event for schools. As you journey through the scenes of the nativity you will meet the Wise Men and their camels, see Mary in the stable and talk to the Shepherds as they tend their flock. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www.zsl.org

Thurs 6 Dec

Storytime with Mother Christmas, Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD

(Also 7 Dec) 9.30-10.15am. A festive fun storytelling session for under 5s. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/morden-hall-park

Sat 8 Dec

The Wind in the Willows Party, Polka, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB 3–6.30pm. Treat your family to a VIP performance of Polka’s new production followed by a fun-filled

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 10...

OLD RIVALS LIGHT UP LONDON’S GREATEST STAGE

HARLEQUINS V WASPS Saturday 29th December 2018

TWICKENHAM STADIUM tickets.quins.co.uk from £15/£25

What’s On

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

December themed after show party with the cast and director. There will be an amazing winter feast and prizes and surprises to delight all ages. Charges apply. For more details visit www.polkatheatre.com

Puppetry and Performance: Family Workshop, National Theatre, South Bank, SE1 9PX (Also 15 Dec) 11am-1pm or 2-4pm. Become a puppeteer for the day and discover how characters can be brought to life through movement, teamwork and imagination. This workshop will be led by War Horse puppeteers. Ages 7-12. Charges apply.Visit www. nationaltheatre.org.uk

Time Travel Club, The National Archives, TW9 4DU

10.30am-12noon. Take a voyage across icy waters to snowy worlds. Hear folk stories about walruses and narwhals, and discover an original magical map from the collection. Ages 4-6. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationalarchives.gov.uk

Kids Sleepover, Horniman Museum and Gardens, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ

7pm-10am. Explore the Horniman by night at their first ever sleepover event. Roll out your sleeping bag and camp out in the galleries, next to a dodo, or even a tiger. Expect fun activities such as storytelling, crafts and trails. Ages 5-11. Charges apply. Visit www.horniman.ac.uk

Santa’s Grotto, WWT London Wetland Centre, SW13 9WT

(Also 9, 15 and 16 Dec) 10am– 4pm. Visit a cosy grotto, receive a gift from Father Christmas and have the opportunity for a photo with him. Charges apply. For more details visit www.wwt.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

Listen Out for Owls The British Trust for Ornithology is asking the great British public to participate in a national study of Tawny Owls and their calling behaviour by listening out for them this autumn and winter. Tawny Owl populations are thought to be in decline and the species has recently been added to the Amber List of Birds of Conservation Concern. The Tawny Owl is arguably our best known owl. Even if you have never seen one you will probably recognise the ‘twit-twoo’ call uttered in harmony by a pair of Tawny Owls. The call of the female is an eerie ‘kewick’ and that of the male in reply is a shivering, ‘whoo’. Put together and you get ‘kewick-whoo’ or put another way, ‘twit-twoo’. Anyone can participate, and parents, teachers and children are asked to listen out for calling Tawny Owls from their garden, local park or piece of woodland. Register online at www.bto.org/owls or email gbw@bto.org for more information. The survey runs until 31 March 2019. You don’t have to commit to listening every week, but you’ll be providing valuable data by recording for as many weeks as you can. It is just as important, if you take part, to tell BTO if you don’t hear an owl. They will then know where there aren’t any owls and you can consider yourself a ‘zero hero’. 10

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

“

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

”

Pop-Up Rehab Gym, National Army Museum, SW3 4HT 10.30am-1pm and 2-4.30pm. Try out the mini rehabilitation gym from the Centre for Blast Injury Studies and experience some of the exercises amputees do to regain balance and strength. Ages 6+. For more information visit www.nam.ac.uk

Dad Day, Orleans House Gallery, Twickenham, TW1 3DJ 10am-12noon. Enjoy creative activities for Dads or male carers and their children from babies to 10 years. Practical artist-led workshops explore different themes and techniques. Charges apply. For more information visit www. orleanshousegallery.org

The Great Christmas Pudding Race, Covent Garden, WC2E 8RF

11am-1pm. A fun, festive event where teams race in fancy dress to complete an obstacle course in London’s iconic Covent Garden while raising money for Cancer Research UK. For more details visit www. xmaspuddingrace.org.uk

Sat 8 – Sun 9 Dec

Husky Sleigh Rides, WWT London Wetland Centre, SW13 9WT 10am–4pm. Children will be thrilled to hop aboard for a festive husky sleigh ride through beautiful wetland scenery. Ages 2-8. Charges apply. For more details visit www.wwt.org.uk

Donkey Rides, WWT London Wetland Centre, SW13 9WT

10am–4pm. Take a ride on an adorable donkey. A wonderful experience with the donkeys saddled up in their Christmas finery and makes for a great photo. Charges apply. For more details visit www. wwt.org.uk

Elves Workshop, WWT London Wetland Centre, SW13 9WT

10am–4pm. The Elves are a little behind schedule this year and they need help to ensure there are enough presents in time for Christmas! Drop into their workshop throughout the day to help them prepare and to make your own Christmas gifts. Charges apply.Visit www.wwt.org.uk

Festive Carriage Rides, Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD

(Also 15-16 and 22-23 Dec) 9.3010.15am. For the first time, see the park from a cosy vintage tram-style carriage pulled by shire horses. Wrap up with a mulled wine or hot chocolate and a mince pie. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ morden-hall-park

Sat 8 Dec – Sun 6 Jan

The Museum of Architecture’s Gingerbread City, Victoria and Albert Museum, SW7 2RL An annual exhibition where architects, designers and engineers create an entire city out of gingerbread. Sign up for fun family workshops at The V&A Sackler Centre. All materials to make the gingerbread house will be supplied. Ages 5+. Charges apply. For more details visit www.thegingerbreadcity. com

Sun 9 Dec

London Santa Dash, Clapham Common, SW4 9AU

11am-1pm. Join thousands of Santas for a festive 5k or 10k fundraising fun run – all to help seriously ill children at Great Ormond Street Hospital. Everyone is welcome to run, jog, walk or wheel around the route. For more details visit www.gosh.org

Green and Ethical Christmas Fayre, Holy Trinity Clapham, SW4 0QZ

11am-4pm. Traditional Christmas Fayre with stalls selling ethically sourced gifts and food.Visit Father Christmas and have a light lunch or coffee in the Green Cafe. Charges apply. For more details visit www. holytrinityclapham.org

The Edible Garden Year, Brockwell Park Community Greenhouses, SE24 0PA

11am-1pm. Learn from a community gardener all about how to make your garden edible over twelve months of the year using organic gardening methods. For more details visit www. brockwellgreenhouses.org.uk

Christmas Fair and Market, Streatham Common, SW16 3BU

11.30am-4pm. A brilliant day out for adults and kids alike. This year will feature over 40 stalls with local arts and crafts, gifts, hampers, homewares, clothing and treats. The Winter Wonderland Santa’s Grotto will be open from 11.30am. Kids go free. For more details visit www.sccoop.org.uk

Mon 10 Dec

Women’s Work Exhibition Tour, Morley Gallery, SE1 7HT 1-1.30pm. Enjoy an informal drop-in tour of Women’s Work: Art from Southwark Collections. For more details visit www.morleycollege.ac.uk

Fri 14 Dec

Winter Wonderland, St Barnabas Parish Hall, Dulwich Village, SE21 7BT

2-5pm. Using a LEGO kit of over 4,500 pieces, children will work together in teams to build a snowy village complete with an ice skating rink, workshops, log cabins and elves. Charges apply. Ages 5-11. For more details visit www.mini-engineers.com

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

Circus 1903

Mimi and the Mountain Dragon

This winter join Skewbald Theatre for an exciting family show packed full of adventure, snow and dragons! The lively songs and magical puppets bring to life Michael Morpurgo’s beautifully atmospheric tale of ‘Mimi and the Mountain Dragon’. High up in the snowy mountains of Switzerland the villagers of Dorta bang their drums, blow their horns and ring the bells to keep the fearsome Mountain Dragon away. But this year is different. One snowy morning Mimi discovers something extraordinary - a baby dragon sleeping in her woodshed! The little creature is lost and frightened but how did

Family Theatre

he get there and what happens when his mother comes looking for him? Mimi must be extremely brave if she is going to reach the Dragon’s castle at the very top of the mountain and return the baby to its mother. Mimi and the Mountain Dragon is a tale of friendship, courage and adventure for anyone who loves snow, dragons and stories. See Mimi and the Mountain Dragon at The Village Hall in Circus West Village at Battersea Power Station from 22 - 31 December at 11am and 2pm. For tickets and more information, visit www. skewbaldtheatre.com.

This Christmas the spectacular new show Circus 1903 will be coming to Southbank Centre, Royal Festival Hall to amaze audiences of all ages. The remarkable show will captivate the whole family, featuring extraordinary puppet elephants from the awardwinning puppeteers of War Horse and sensational circus acts such as the trapeze, high wire performers and contortionists. Both children and parents will be on the edge of their seats as the wonders of the circus are displayed right in front of them which is sure to be mind-blowing. The show is internationally acclaimed, arriving to London from Las Vegas and is bound to be a once in a lifetime experience that you will not want to miss. Celebrate the Golden Age of Circus this festive season in an unforgettable way. The European premiere of Circus 1903 will run from 19 December to 5 January. For more information and to book tickets visit www. circus1903.com

A Unicorn Production in association with Filskit Theatre

13 NOV 2018 – 6 JAN 2019

A HEART-WARMING CHRISTMAS SHOW ABOUT A DAD AND HIS BABY PENGUIN.

For ages 2 – 5

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

Family Theatre

Christmas at Polka Theatre The Wind in the Willows starts the festive season off, playing on the Main Stage. This classic story of friendship and bravery will take you on a journey through the seasons. It’s a wonderfully funny tale brought to life with music, songs and the usual Polka magic and a festive treat for the whole family, playing until 17 February, for ages from 5 and above. Why not go and snuggle down in the Adventure Theatre for tales full of bravery and friendship? In the Winter Wood is a newly devised, interactive story inspired by winter stories from around the world, created by storyteller Jan Blake. When Pig and Goat discover they’re being fattened up for a winter feast, they decide to run away to find a little house in the winter woods, where they can live happily together. It plays from 29 November – 17 February and is ideal for ages 3–6. With any ticket purchased for a show on Saturday 1 December, you will gain access to the Festive Fun at Polka event. There will be Christmas card making, mince pies (and mulled wine for the grown-ups!). Father Christmas will even make an appearance. To book and for more information, visit www.polkatheatre.com Photo credit: Michael Wharley and Rebecca Pitt

Peter Pan at Richmond Theatre

Do you believe in fairies? Clap your hands and think plenty of happy thoughts to set off on a fairy tale flight to Neverland this Christmas for the swashbuckling family adventure, Peter Pan at Richmond Theatre! Join our high-flying hero, Peter Pan, as he transports the Darlings on an adventure filled with evil pirates, a very hungry crocodile and the meanest man in Neverland, Captain Hook played by BAFTA, Tony Award and two-time Olivier Award winner Robert Lindsay as he makes his first ever pantomime debut! Joining Robert will be comedy Impressionist and Britain’s Got Talent finalist, Jon Clegg, as Smee. West End star Rachel Stanley (Scrooge The Musical, Legally Blonde) will mystify the imagination as the Magical Mermaid, and Harry Francis (Book of Mormon, A Chorus Line, Fiddler on the Roof) delights audiences as the boy who never grew up, Peter Pan. With a booty of concessions available, families will find it even easier to save when booking for the perfect festive trip to the theatre this Christmas. Packed full of high-flying sequences, swordfights, song and dance and a galleon-full of comedy, climb aboard the Jolly Roger and set sail for the box office to hook your tickets today!

Fri 9 Nov – Sun 17 Feb A Polka Theatre production

Adapted from the original by J M Barrie and by arrangement with Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity and Samuel French Limited

A play by Toby Hulse Based on the novel by Kenneth Grahame Ages

020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com Polka Theatre, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

0844 871 7651*

ATGTICKETS.COM/Richmond* *Fees apply. Calls cost up to 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge. **Valid on select performances only for children aged 16 and under.

Take a magical journey into the enchanted forest this Christmas with a brand new adaptation of the Brothers Grimm classic Hansel & Gretel, at Rose Theatre Kingston from Thursday 6 December to Sunday 6 January. When young Hansel and Gretel take a trip to the far side of the forest, little do they know of the adventure that awaits them. In a new festive version of the much-loved children’s tale, join Hansel and Gretel this Christmas as they battle magical beasts in a race to save their town from the witch’s curse. Enlisting help to outwit the witch, the siblings are joined by a whole host of well-known characters so keep an eye out for fairy tale favourites like Red Riding Hood, Snow White and Pinocchio as they journey towards their Happily Ever After. Following on from the hugely successful Alice in Winterland last year, the Rose presents yet another Christmas spectacular. Brimming with humour, terrific songs and plenty of festive cheer Hansel & Gretel promises a wonderful mix of classic fairy tale fun, with a twist! The family fun continues in the New Year as the Rose presents the first ever stage adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s best-selling book Zog and Dr Seuss’s classic The Cat in the Hat. For more information and to book tickets, contact the Box Office on 020 8174 0090 or visit www.rosetheatrekingston.org.

Family Theatre

A Festive Family Treat at Rose Theatre Kingston

Aladdin at New Wimbledon Theatre

Your wish is granted! New Wimbledon Theatre is being transformed into Old Peking this Christmas. Join Aladdin on his enchanted quest to defeat the evil Abanazar. Paul Merton leads the cast in this year’s high-flying pantomime as Widow Twankey, joined by Lee Ryan as Aladdin and Magician Pete Firman who will be on hand to spread a little magic over SW19. Packed with all of the usual traditional pantomime elements, Aladdin features laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes and plenty of boos and hisses. The show is set to dazzle children of all ages, including well-known songs and plenty of audience participation opportunities to hold even the wriggliest child’s attention. It features special effects by The Twins FX and an eye-popping 3D sequence which will transport audiences on a truly magical carpet ride. Blue’s Lee Ryan told Primary Times, “I had an incredible time on Strictly and I’m sad to have left the competition. But on the plus side it means I can finally reveal my plans for Christmas, playing Aladdin in pantomime. This will be my third panto and I absolutely love it, and I’m sure there’ll be more dance moves in store for me as I dance around Old Peking.” Lee is also joined by leading ladies Linda John Pierre and Lauren Chia as The Empress and Princess Jasmine, with Adam Pearce as Abanazar. Please note that Lee Ryan will not be appearing in Aladdin on Saturday 15 December due to existing television commitments. This year’s panto is a treat your whole family will treasure. Don’t miss the magic!

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

Family Theatre

Travel through the Land of Snow to an enchanted place where the magic really begins.

Box Office: 020 7498 4699 28 Nov - 24 Dec

The Selfish Giant

17 Dec

Orange Tree Richmond great lion, the White Witch, and the adventures of four children who wander through wardrobe. Ages 4+.

Box Office: 020 7223 2223 1 - 30 Dec

Return to Elm House

Join a thrilling quest through the building to discover hidden memories, uncover mislaid secrets and collect clues to bring back the story of Elm House. Ages 6+.

Lantern Arts Centre SW20

Colour House Theatre, Merton Abbey Mills

Sleeping Beauty

Box Office: 020 8542 5511 24 Nov – 27 Jan

Jack and the Beanstalk

Box Office: 020 3761 7070 12 – 15 Dec

new baby princess with fairies A to bless her, what could possibly go wrong? A fun-filled show for all the family bursting with music, laughter and panto shenanigans. Enjoy

the show! This iconic tale will New leave you cheering, And don’t Wimbledon booing and shouting forget to say Box Office: www. “he’s behind you!” you saw it in Jack’s in big trouble atgtickets.com/ Primary when he comes wimbledon home with a pocket Times! 8 Dec – 6 Jan full of magic beans instead of gold in return for his cow, Aladdin Daisy. Packed with all the traditional pantomime ingredients The Exchange audiences expect, Aladdin features laugh-out-loud comedy, Twickenham stunning scenery, beautiful Box Office: 020 8240 2399 costumes and plenty of boos and 5 – 8 Jan hisses.

Oliver Twist

Experience slum world of London, populated by iconic characters including the Artful Dodger, Nancy, Fagin and the murderous Bill Sikes, as Rose Youth Theatre bring Dickens’ much-loved novel to life.

Hampton Hill Theatre Box Office: 08458 387 529 8 – 15 Dec

Dick Whittington

The whole family will love this traditional no-messing tale, told with a topical, tropical twist. Expect a performance packed with punch, puns and pies.

22 - 23 Dec

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Journey to the snow-covered land of Narnia and discover the magic and mystery of Aslan the

23 Jan

The Magnificent Music Hall Matinee

With a show packed full of talent, journey down memory lane to the glorious and glamorous heyday of the great British Music Hall - a truly golden era.

31 Jan

Cinderella

Russian State Ballet of Siberia presents the world’s favourite rags to riches fairy tale. Dreams can come true in this magical mix of Prokofiev’s energetic score, choreography and colourful costumes.

2 Feb

Nutcracker

Russian State Ballet of Siberia presents the most famous of fantasy ballets for all the family.

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

The Christmas Crocodile The tale of Clara, her young family, and how a local legend was born with a little bit of Christmas Magic and a Crocodile. Taking place at Arthur Cotterell Theatre. Ages 3-7.

Omnibus Theatre Clapham Common

This festive season you are invited to step into a theatrical world where giants are your neighbours and a once beautiful garden is stuck in everlasting winter. Ages 3+.

Battersea Arts Centre

11 - 15 Dec

Box Office: 020 8940 3633 14 Dec – 5 Jan

Can’t Wait for Christmas! Join in Jessie’s countdown to Christmas as she delights in all the festive treats that appear behind her advent calendar windows.

OSO Arts Centre Box Office: 020 8876 9885 15 – 22 Dec

Sleeping Beauty

(Selected dates) The OSO Pantomime is back again. Be prepared to laugh, boo, sing and most of all fill yourself up with that warm festive feeling.

Polka Theatre, Wimbledon, SW19 Box Office: 020 8543 4888 9 Nov – 17 Feb

The Wind in the Willows

The classic story of friendship and bravery on stage like you’ve never seen it. Ages 5+.

Frozen

Singalong fun with the Disney classic, experience Frozen on the big screen in the main auditorium. Festive fun for all the family!

29 Dec

Goldilocks and the Three Polar Bears

The classic tale is transported from deep in the forest to an icy wonderland. Goldilocks is given a beautiful Christmas gift, but when she loses it outside her home her adventures begin.

Village Hall, Battersea Power Station www.skewbaldtheatre.com 22 – 31 Dec

Mimi and the Mountain Dragon

(Selected dates) Skewbald Theatre proudly presents Michael Morpurgo’s heartwarming tale about friendship and courage that’s packed full of snow, dragons, lively songs and puppetry. Ages 3+

Stockwell Playhouse Wandsworth Road Box Office: 020 7622 9208 18 – 24 Dec

Cinderella

29 Nov – 17 Feb

In the Winter Wood

When Pig and Goat discover they’re being fattened up for a winter feast, they decide to run away to find a little house in the winter woods, where they can live happily together. Ages 3-6.

Packed with all of the traditional pantomime ingredients, this show will be the perfect Christmas treat for the whole family. Channel 5’s Jen Pringle from Milkshake! stars as Fairy Godmother.

Richmond Theatre

Southbank Centre SE1

Box Office: 08448 717 651 8 Dec – 6 Jan

Peter Pan

Box Office: 020 3879 9555 13 Dec – 6 Jan

Rumpelstiltskin

Take a fairy tale flight to

Neverland in this swashbuckling family panto. Be transported to a world filled with evil pirates, a very hungry crocodile and the meanest man in Neverland, Captain Hook.

See the UK premiere of this retelling of a beloved family fairy tale, reimagined with lashings of magical mayhem, rocking music and supreme silliness. Ages 8+.

Rose Kingston

19 Dec – 5 Jan

Box Office: 020 8174 0090 6 Dec – 6 Jan

Hansel & Gretel

Battling magical beasts, enlisting a crew of fairy tale bandits and learning the secrets of their past, Hansel and Gretel must race to save their town from the Witch’s Curse, all in time for Christmas.

Circus 1903

Marvel at the European premiere of this show which includes sensational life-sized elephants stunningly created by puppeteers from War Horse, putting elephants back in the ring as never before. Ages 3+.

The Royal Shakespeare Company’s riotous production of Don Quixote is transferring to the West End this Christmas. Don Quixote follows the adventurous title character as he embarks on his own quest of chivalry after reading countless books. Armed with a lance and a sword, he decides to become a wandering knight, rescuing the helpless and defeating the evil. Unfortunately, Don Quixote is tremendously unprepared, and quickly loses his grip on reality. Accompanied by his loyal, but equally unprepared, companion Sancho Panza, the two set out on a hilarious, haphazard adventure in this farcical adaptation of the famous novel. This hugely funny, lyrical and energetic take on the classic novel, plays at London’s Garrick Theatre for a strictly limited season, running from 27 October to 2 February. It’s suitable for both adults and children aged 8 +. Photo credit: Helen Maybanks © RSC

Family Theatre

Don Quixote

House. Featuring magical trails, ingenious installations and original music, this heartwarming new show rediscovers a long lost past based on the fascinating story of Jeanie Nassau Senior, a social pioneer and Britain’s first female civil servant. Created by the team behind previous immersive productions The Good Neighbour and Town Hall Cherubs, Return to Elm House will run from 1 – 30 December. It will be presented by BAC Moving Museum with support from the Heritage Lottery Fund. For more information, please visit www.bac.org.uk.

The Selfish Giant at Omnibus Theatre

Grinter the giant lives happily alone in her huge cold house, hiding, safe and quiet in her icy home. One day, the children – tired of playing on roads and rooftops – find a gap in the giant’s wall and climb through, changing the course of the children’s and Grinter’s lives forever. This festive season you and your families are invited to step into a theatrical world where giants are your neighbours and a once beautiful garden is stuck in everlasting winter. Running from Wednesday 28 November - Monday 24 December, it’s guaranteed to delight all ages from 3–103. This heart-warming reimagining combines captivating storytelling with spellbinding puppetry, original music and a sprinkling of festive magic. Omnibus Theatre is delighted to present an enchanting new adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s short story, exploring an extraordinary friendship, and how even the grumpiest giant’s heart can melt when spring finally comes. Described as ‘an engrossing show’ by The Guardian, The Selfish Giant is a show you won’t want to miss. To get 20% off under-18s tickets, quote ‘PRIMARYTIMES’. For more information, please visit www.omnibus-clapham.org.

Battersea Arts Centre

Return to Elm House is an immersive and thrilling quest through Battersea Arts Centre’s 125 year old building, created especially for ages 6+. A long time ago, on the very spot where Battersea Arts Centre now stands, a brave woman lived in Elm House. As the years ticked by, her inspiring story was long forgotten, until now. The spirit of Elm House has awoken, bursting through Battersea Arts Centre and scattering Jeanie’s lost tale behind old doors and down hidden corridors, waiting to be found. It’s the audience’s job to uncover mislaid secrets, unveil hidden memories and collect the clues to solve the mystery of Elm

An immersive festive family adventure

1 - 30 Dec bac.org.uk

Tickets from £12.50

Battersea Arts Centre, Lavender Hill, London SW11 5TN

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

For everyone aged 6+

What’s On

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

December Sat 15 Dec

Pantomime Workshop, Richmond Theatre, TW9 1QJ 11am. Discover the history of pantomime, play fun drama games and create your very own pantomime scenes at Richmond Theatre’s pantomime workshop. For more information contact richmondcreativelearning@ theambassadors.com

Festive First World War Gift Tins, National Army Museum, SW3 4HT

11am-1pm. Learn about the Christmas gift tins sent to soldiers in the First World War and make your own in this free family craft session. For more information visit www. nam.ac.uk

Children’s Chocolate Decoration Workshop, National Army Museum, SW3 4HT 2-3.30pm. Learn about the history of chocolate and discover how Christmas chocolates boosted the spirits of soldiers serving during the First World War. Ages 6+. Charges apply. For more information visit www.nam.ac.uk

Carols by Candlelight, Landmark Arts Centre, TW11 9NN

6.45pm. Surrey Brass are joined by Sacred Heart School Choir, the Harlequin Chamber Choir and narrator Giles Abbott for a festive programme of words and music. Charges apply. For more details visit www.landmarkartscentre.org

Festive Family Carols by Candlelight, St Martin-inthe-Fields, Trafalgar Square, WC2N 4JH

(Also 23 Dec) 4-5pm. Join St Martin’s Voices in this joyful celebration of family carols for Christmas. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www.stmartin-in-the-fields.org

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

Another Seven Simple and Slightly Silly Stories by John Foley John Foley’s second collection of darkly witty short stories for adults and children, Another Seven Simple and Slightly Silly Stories, is now available, with 100% of the profits donated to Mencap, a UK charity working to improve the lives of those with learning disabilities. John Foley presents another set of seven charmingly quirky and remarkable fables, inspired by his time living in Hans Christian Andersen’s house in Copenhagen. In each magical tale, Foley brings new, wondrous worlds to life, transporting you to universes in which hotel lifts talk, puddles have feelings and reindeer learn to read. Each delightful story carries an important and surprising sting in its tale. Demonstrating the true magic of storytelling, Foley’s twists and turns imbue his extraordinary tales with wisdom, revealing a deeper meaning that’s anything but ‘silly’. In Foley’s own words, these stories have been written for ‘the young at heart aged 10 to 110’ and showcase the power of reading and storytelling to develop empathy, identification and learning, at any age. Another Seven Simple and Slightly Silly Stories is available direct from www. quizzicalworks.com at £7.50 (p&p included) and also from bookshops and Amazon. 16

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

“

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

”

Sat 15 – Sun 16 Dec

Horrible Christmas Crafting, Dulwich Picture Gallery, SE21 7AD

10am-5pm. What would a horrible Christmas be without some awful artmaking? Drop in to the Gallery to make the perfect ugly Christmas decoration for your tree. Ages 4-12. Charges apply. For more details visit www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk

The Snow Queen Storytelling, Horniman Museum and Gardens, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ Enjoy a storytelling performance of the classic Hans Christian Andersen tale. In this wintery fairy tale meet Kal and the Snow Queen, who are aboard the sledge and on their snowy journey to Lapland. Ages 3+. Charges apply. For more details visit www.horniman.ac.uk

Father Frost and The Snow Maiden, The Queen’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace, SW1A 1AA 11am-3pm. Join storyteller Lucy for a winter’s tale from Russia, surrounded by beautiful Russian paintings. Then create your own enchanting watercolour by candlelight. Fun for the whole family. For more details and to book visit www.rct.uk

Sat 15 Dec – Sun 6 Jan

Winter Wildlife Workshops, WWT London Wetland Centre, SW13 9WT

(Selected dates) Make bird feeders and learn about birds in winter. Discover which animals hibernate on site and make a home for them using natural materials. Tick and twitch your way into 2019 with a birdwatching walk. Charges apply. For more details visit www.wwt.org.uk

Sun 16 Dec

The Holly and the Ivy, Centre for Wildlife Gardening, East Dulwich, SE15 4EE

11am-4pm. Spend a fun-packed day with your children learning about evergreens and using them to make a decorative wreath for your door, and other decorations. For more details visit www.wildlondon.org.uk

Winter Gathering, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX

12noon. Gather together for a day of activities to celebrate the family we choose for ourselves. Show appreciation for the friends and community members who make us feel welcome, cared for and at home during the festive season. For more details visit www.southbankcentre. co.uk

Wild Life Drawing, The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN 11am-1pm and 2-4pm. Meet and sketch real-life animals with artist and animal-lover Jennie Webber from Wild Life Drawing. Each week will feature different animals! Ages 5-11. Charges apply. For more information visit www.nationalgallery.org.uk

Mon 17 Dec

Meet Father Christmas, Ham House and Garden, Richmond, TW10 7RS

(Also 18, 19, 20, 21, and 23) The magic of Christmas has come to Ham with garlands, candles and most important of all - Father Christmas. Each child that visits will get a present. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hamhouse-and-garden

Tues 18 Dec

Christmas Celebration, Rose Theatre Kingston, KT1 1HL

7.30pm. This year the lineup will feature a fantastic range of acts including Singing It Back’s Harmonies for Heroines and Prima Voce Choirs, Soundbytes Choir, Quintessential as well as the British Recorder Light Orchestra. To book visit www. rosetheatrekingston.org

Wed 19 – Sun 23 Dec

Sail with Santa, City Cruises, Tower Pier, EC3N 4DT

10.45am, 12.45pm, 2.35pm, 4.45pm. Meet Santa on the river Thames as he’s swapped his sleigh for a boat. Fun for everyone with lots of treats from Santa. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www. citycruises.com

Wed 19 Dec – Sat 5 Jan

Circus 1903, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX Fresh from the Paris Theatre in Las Vegas, the show includes sensational life-sized elephants stunningly created by puppeteers from War Horse, putting elephants back in the ring as never before. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

Sat 22 Dec

Postcard Performances, National Army Museum, SW3 4HT

(Also 5 Jan) 11am, 1pm and 3pm. Enjoy a series of family-friendly performances, telling the stories behind Christmas postcards sent by soldiers and their loved ones during the First World War. For more information visit www.nam.ac.uk

Sat 22 Dec – Sat 5 Jan

Embroidered Christmas Cards, National Army Museum, SW3 4HT

(Selected dates) 11am-1pm and 2-4pm. Make your own festive greetings card inspired by the First World War Christmas cards collection in this free family workshop. For more information visit www.nam.ac.uk

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 28...

Whatever the Weather! Fun Days Out with the Family A Candlelit Christmas at Ham House

During December, experience the wonderful splendour of Ham House lit by candle light. With candles and natural greenery filling the house, enjoy the atmosphere over the festive season. Candles will guide your way through Ham House, providing soft light and a wonderful atmosphere. Expect an abundance of natural green wreaths, swags and garlands, draped over banisters, mantelpieces and windowsills. Present-shaped information boards around the house tell you a little bit more about this period in time, and how Ham’s residents, the Lauderdales, celebrated Christmas in lavish fashion. In the gardens, trees and hedges twinkle, creating magical spaces and great photo opportunities. There will of course be a sparkling Christmas tree adorning the house, bursting with presents beneath it. Warm yourselves by the fires in the Orangery Café with a delicious hot chocolate and biscuit or enjoy a stroll through

the gardens with your four-legged friends. Events over December include meeting Father Christmas (booking essential) and reindeer antler making.You can also experience Ham House after hours on a Christmas ghost tour. Whatever your plans are, a festive visit to Ham House and Garden is sure to delight. For more information, head over to www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-house-and-garden. Photo credit: Sophie Johnson

Christmas at Chessington Garden Centre

Following his spectacular arrival, Father Christmas will be in residence at Chessington Garden Centre from Saturday 24 November until Monday 24 December.Your visit will start with a trip to the Christmas creations room after which you embark on a fantastical journey to meet Father Christmas himself. An exciting Christmas adventure full of fairies and woodland creatures awaits you as you venture deeper, passing a mystical castle which is home to a Beast but look out for the Beauty within. Travel down a yellow brick road guided by some helpful Munchkins before arriving at Father Christmas’s post office where you can add your own letter to his ever-growing pile. Step through his workshop where the elves are hard at work and being entertained by Father Christmas’s very own singing Reindeer! Your visit concludes with your personal meeting with Father Christmas himself. This complete Christmas Wonderland Experience involves a craft workshop, two photo opportunities and interactive experiences throughout plus a ‘meet and greet’ with Father Christmas. The experience costs £14.50 for children (includes wrapped present) and £4.50 for accompanying adults. Children under 12 months are free of charge but will not receive a wrapped present.

Christmas at Ham House Join us for a Candlelit Christmas this December with activities for the whole family to enjoy. Meet Father Christmas, take a stroll through the gardens with your four-legged friends or book onto one of our Christmas ghost tours. #nationaltrust

Call 020 8940 1950 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/hamhouse

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

Whatever the Weather!

Christmas at The Postal Museum

The Postal Museum is set to spread the Christmas cheer far and wide this December with a festive twist on its Mail Rail Ride and a whole host of activities for both kids and adults to make this yuletide extra jolly. For a short time only, Mail Rail’s subterranean ride – taking visitors back in time to the heyday of the postal railway – will get a Christmas makeover. From wartime wives wishing husbands Merry Christmas from afar, to the broadcast of the first King’s Speech on the BBC, the new projection is set to get visitors into the Christmas spirit in a unique way. There’s plenty going on above ground too. Whether it’s wreathmaking, floral centre pieces, seasonal stationary or personalised present sacks, visitors will have the chance to get crafty in artistled workshops and join engaging storytelling sessions across the Christmas period. All activities are limited capacity, so book online to guarantee your place and get your dose of that fuzzy Christmas feeling at www.postalmuseum.org. Activities take place weekends from Saturday 1 December to Sunday 23 December with most included with ticket entry on a first come, first served basis unless you’ve booked ahead. Photo credit: The Postal Museum

Christmas at Morden Hall Park

the Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink welcomes visitors to the Tudor Palace. The venue boasts spectacular Thames-side views and offers visitors an enchanting ambience for the festive season, especially after dusk when the Palace’s iconic facade lights up. The Ice Rink Café & Bar – featuring a special children’s menu – are great places for both skaters and spectators to sample the delicious winter menu, as well as a selection of warming and alcoholic beverages from The Pie Man. The Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink season runs from now until 6 January. The rink is open every day (except Christmas Day) from 11am-9pm and from 10am on weekends. From 17 December, the rink will be open every day from 10am. A popular event which offers exclusive discounted prices for families, advanced booking is recommended to best plan your day at this famous royal residence. Tickets are now on sale for the picturesque open-air rink, offering you the chance to celebrate the festive season in majestic style, surrounded by centuries of royal history. For more information and to book tickets, visit www.hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk

Christmas at Kew

Wrap up warm this Christmas and venture out to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew to uncover the secrets of the Gardens’ winter woodlands. With an exciting programme of special activities and walks, there’s plenty to do and see at Kew throughout the holiday period.

For the first time this Christmas, you can see Morden Hall Park from a cosy vintage tram pulled by heavy horses. Wrap up with a mulled wine or hot chocolate and a mince pie or shortbread. Festive carriage rides run on the weekends in December leading up to Christmas between 10am and 3.30pm. Tickets cost £18 for adults and £13 per child. Family tickets are also available. Alternatively, settle down for a cosy Storytime with Mother Christmas on Thursday 6 and Friday 7 December between 9.30am and 10.15am. It will be a festive fun storytelling session for under 5s, costing £5 per child. Special weekday slots to visit Father Christmas are also available to book to accompany this event, costing £10 per child.

Visit Father Christmas at Morden Hall Park

You can warm up at one of the two cafes and indulge yourselves with some handmade food, or browse in the garden centre for that perfect gift or Christmas tree. All money raised helps the National Trust look after Morden Hall Park. Booking for all events is essential. For more information and to book, please visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk or call 03442 491 895.

Weekends 24 & 25 Nov, 1 & 2 Dec (other weekends in December sold out) Come and see Father Christmas in his cosy, enchanted grotto and receive a gift chosen just for you. Send a postcard to Father Christmas via our special postcard express.

Photo credit: Coral Hill

Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink

Skate back in time this winter for a truly unforgettable experience at the Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink, set against the backdrop of King Henry VIII’s former home. Perfect for all ages and levels of ability - from absolute beginners to experts -

Online booking essential. £10 per child.

Call 0344 249 1895 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park/whats-on #nationaltrust

When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your support helps us to look after special places for ever, for everyone.

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

Prepare to get muddy - set off on a Welly Walk or play on the log trail and find out which plants come into their own in the winter months and what’s going on in the ground beneath your feet. While it might seem that all of nature has gone into hibernation over winter, fewer flowers and less greenery makes it a great time to spot wildlife including squirrels and robins on a Woodland Walk in Kew’s conservation area. Extra learning panels and new ‘talk tubes’ explain how plants and animals depend on each other for ecosystems to thrive. For more information, please visit www.kew.org.

Whatever the Weather!

Tales and trails

22 December 2018 – 6 January 2019

Wrap up warm and connect with nature

Book online and save kew.org

Image © RBG Kew / Jeff Eden

Visitors can experience whimsical theatre by performance artists The Fabularium, as they join Grimbert the Badger and Reynard the Fox on an outdoor adventure. Cosying up inside, renowned storyteller Rachel Rose Reid will captivate curious minds with tales and songs of the natural world, forest life and ancient trees. Surrounded by four exhibitions including Mark Frith’s exquisite images of Britain’s finest oaks in wintertime, families will be inspired to go outside and explore the Gardens’ interactive trails. Festive activities will be taking place from Saturday 22 December until Sunday 6 January, 11am-3pm (Gardens closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day). Festive activities are included in the entry price and offered on a first come first served basis.

SKATE BACK IN

TIME THIS

CHRISTMAS

23 November – 6 January Book online now. Limited places available. www.hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

Whatever the Weather!

Christmas at London Zoo

ZSL London Zoo is celebrating the festive season with a magical new light trail. Visitors will be invited to journey through the Zoo on a festive Christmas trail, experiencing the landmark London location in a completely different light. After the sun sets and the animals have bedded down for the night, the Zoo will transform into a fairyland of twinkling decorations, celebrating the festive season with a series of illuminated animal sculptures, light tunnels and Christmas surprises. Feel the holiday spirit on this enchanting self-guided tour, where you’ll see glowing fountains at the historic Lubetkin penguin pool. No yuletide stroll would be complete without a warming glass of mulled wine or hot chocolate, so head to the Zoo’s Christmas Village for traditional treats including toasted marshmallows and roasted chestnuts. This is the most unique way to spread goodwill this Christmas, as you’ll also be supporting international wildlife charity ZSL’s valuable conservation work. The Light Trail runs on selected dates up until 1 January from 4.45–10pm. Tickets are strictly limited and are already selling out fast, so be quick to grab yourself a place at this unmissable winter event. To book your tickets, please visit www.christmasatlondonzoo.co.uk. Photo credit: ZSL

Winter at RHS Gardens Wisley

A chill in the air is no barrier to getting outdoors this winter with a full programme of events set to keep visitors busy throughout the season at RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey. On the weekends of 1–2, 8–9, 15–16 and 18–23 December, you can join Santa for a heart-warming Christmas story, decorate delicious gingerbread and join in with festive crafting activities. Also starting from 1 December and continuing until 2 January, you’ll be able to wrap up warm, pick up a hot drink and follow the Christmas Glow illuminated trail around the garden after dark to discover giant botanical light displays, and a festive spectacle in the Glasshouse where a magical Woodland Realm awaits discovery, with elves, treehouses and Santa’s reindeer all to be found in a beautiful festive display. A priority booking system has been introduced for 2018, and all visitors must book a time slot in advance of their visit. In the New Year, from 26 January, LEGO™ Jungle Discovery comes to RHS Garden Wisley. Take a safari around the Glasshouse to spot life-size LEGO™ jungle animals and plants whilst learning about their habitats and diets – and don’t miss the chance to get behind the wheel of the LEGO™ jeep for a photo! For more information, visit www.rhs.org.uk/wisley.

The Festival of Winter Walks is now in its thirtyfirst year - so the Ramblers know a thing or two about the joys of getting out and about in the colder weather. From short, festive-themed strolls topped off with a sociable drink to more strenuous stretches to help boost your energy levels, there’s a walk to suit everyone. Many are suitable for families with children. All group walks during the Festival of Winter Walks are free to attend, but if you’re inspired to keep walking, why not join the Ramblers? Your membership will give you access to hundreds of group walks every year, an online library of over 2,500 Ramblers Routes, as well as many other benefits. For more information, visit www.ramblers.org.uk/winterwalks

Santa’s Grotto at Squire’s

Go and meet Santa in his magical grotto at Squire’s Garden Centre, Twickenham and receive an early Christmas present. As well as seeing your child’s face light up when they see Santa and receive a beautiful wrapped gift, you’ll also get a warm glow, as you’ll be benefitting a local charity. Tickets cost £6 per child, with £1 from every ticket being donated to Integrated Neurological Services. Santa’s grotto will be open from now until 24 December on weekends and all week

See the Garden in a new light 1 December – 2 January

Photo credit: RHS/Luke MacGregor

Ramblers Festival of Winter Walks

The cold crisp days of winter are a magical time to go walking with transformed scenery and spectacular early sunsets. Getting out into the great outdoors for a while is a wonderful way to escape the demands of the festive season for a few hours too. Luckily, the Ramblers’ annual Festival of Winter Walks is back, from 21 December to 6 January with hundreds of free walks to help with some winter walking inspiration. 20

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

Enjoy the magical experience of the Garden after-dark, majestically lit up and glowing with pride. Tickets are timed entry. Book your time slot at rhs.org.uk/wisley Closed 24 and 25 December. Every visit supports the charitable work of the RHS RHS Registered Charity No. 222879/SC038262

RHS Wisley Glow - Primary News ARTWORK

For full opening times go to www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk

Putney at Christmas

Join the Positively Putney team in Putney on Friday 30 November, 3pm till 8pm, for their magical Christmas light switch on compered by Wandsworth radio. They also have an impressive line-up of performers from local Putney schools and drama groups. During the afternoon you can enjoy festive street food, muchloved local business stalls, craft and gift stalls, kids rides and slides and new for this year a Christmas Tree forest. Make memories with your friends and family in a taxi ride photobooth before the Christmas Light Switch On at 6pm where you will be joined by Kiko Matthews, fastest woman to row the Atlantic on her own and unsupported. A big thank you goes to Chamberland Residential for sponsoring the Christmas tree. From vibrant independents to high street retailers Putney has shopping to suit all ages and budgets for those important Christmas gifts. They also have a great choice of restaurants and bars for those festive drinks with friends and family. Go along and explore what Putney has to offer. They believe they can fulfil all your needs. For more information about all the shops and attractions in Putney as well as events before and after Christmas, visit www. positivelyputney.co.uk.

PUTNEY AT CHRISTMAS

PUTNEY LIGHTS SWITCH-ON PARTY

Visit Putney this Christmas for all your festive needs.

3-8pm, 30th November, Community Stage Church Square, Putney High Street.

Whatever the Weather!

commencing 17 December. There’s no need to book, simply turn up on the day. Make sure you don’t come between 1pm and 2pm as Santa will be feeding his reindeer.

SHOP LOCAL, EAT LOCAL, ENJOY LOCAL VISIT POSITIVELYPUTNEY.CO.UK FOR MORE INFORMATION

PutneyChristmas Ad Primary Times.indd 1

05/11/2018 11:12

Meet Santa in his Grotto 17 Nov – 24 Dec

£6

At Squire’s Twickenham Sixth Cross Road, TW2 5PA

includ ing per ch gift ild

Open weekends and selected days £1 from every ticket will be donated to Twickenham’s local charity ‘Integrated Neurological Services’

Purchase your grotto tickets on the day at any till Visit our website for details

Squire's advert_SW London Primary Times_Circus Grotto_190x135mm.indd 1

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

05/11/2018 17:09:32

Out of School Activities invited to termly shows and presentations and will also receive a yearly report detailing their child’s progress. So, go along and join the fun, and see in the New Year with a two-week free trial at Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools Teddington. To book a place for the spring term online, visit www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk to book or call Jigsaw on 020 8447 4530 and secure your child’s place for 2019.

Jigsaw in Teddington

Jigsaw are excited to announce the opening of Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools Teddington. They’d like to treat your children to a confident New Year. Jigsaw has been offering weekend performing arts classes to children aged 3-18 across London, the Home Counties and beyond for over 20 years. Their dance, singing and drama classes are an excellent way to build confidence and self-esteem in children of all ages. Directed by an inspirational team of teachers, parents are

Train Like A Jedi

Public Health England (PHE) and Disney UK are launching a brand new national Change4Life Train Like A Jedi programme which will inspire children to get active. The new programme uses the excitement of Star Wars™ and its characters alongside Double Olympic Gold medallist Jade Jones to encourage children to Train

Delivering fun and engaging performing arts classes led by professional tutors since 1995

Jigsaw Teddington Teddington School Broom Road Teddington TW11 9PJ

BRA N ND SCH EW BO OOL NO OK W!

✴ ✴ ✴ ✴

Saturday Mornings 3–18 years ✴ ✴ ✴ ✴

New Term starts 27th January 2019

TWO WEEK TRIAL AVAILABLE!

020 3633 6457 22

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk

Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

Join Funky Monkey in 2019

Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes are making it as easy as ABC to join their classes for January 2019. Follow these three simple steps and grab yourselves a bargain to beat the January blues! • Attend a free trial class • Book a term of classes • Claim a second free class! Group-based electronic keyboard lessons for 4-8 year olds are the perfect introduction to reading, writing, playing and

loving music right up to a first grade. Term classes (and holiday courses!) are educational, inventive, creative, imaginative and present musicmaking in such a way that children just keep coming back for more! Funky Monkey are not a franchised or licensed company. They feel that they provide a level of personal service that is second to none, with no annoying registration fees or expensive extras. You deal with one point of contact from the beginning of your musical journey through to the end. To claim your ABC discount, book any time from now until the 31 January. There is absolutely no obligation or commitment. Visit www.funkymonkey. info for full details and to watch an online film. Email Ali at mail@ funkymonkey.info or call 01732 457 100 to book. Funky Monkey look forward to seeing you at their classes very soon.

Out of School Activities

Like A Jedi, and is designed to increase levels of physical activity amongst children in England. It is recommended that children do at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day, yet just 23% of boys and 20% of girls aged 5 to 15 years currently meet this recommendation. A new survey from PHE and Disney found that over 4 in 5 children (82%) would be inspired to move more if they saw their favourite characters being active. With Star Wars characters ranking as key favourites amongst UK children aged 7-11, the programme aims to make physical activity more fun. Building a new generation of Resistance recruits, Jones, alongside a special appearance from BB-8, leads children through a series of Jedi inspired moves in an exciting new play along video. Taking inspiration from the traits of iconic Jedi such as Luke Skywalker and Rey, the video helps children learn and master six key skills – technique, strength, stamina, speed, agility and mastery. The sequence of moves has been specially designed to increase children’s heart rates and benefit health. For more resources and to view the video, please visit www. campaignresources.phe.gov.uk.

Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools

SCHOOLS IN:

Balham Croydon Mitcham Surbiton Sutton Teddington NEW Wimbledon ✴ ✴ ✴

3–18 years

Where children become everything they can be Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds

stagecoach.co.uk/sutton 01372 272561

sutton@stagecoach.co.uk

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

TWO WEEK TRIAL AVAILABLE. BOOK NOW!

020 8447 4530 www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk 26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

Staying Healthy with...

Jamie Oliver

Primary Times teams up with Jamie Oliver to discuss the importance of fresh ingredients

global phenomenon in food and campaigning, Jamie Oliver has inspired millions of people to cook fresh, delicious food from scratch. In an exclusive interview with Primary Times magazine, Jamie talks about reducing childhood obesity, educating parents about the benefits of using fresh ingredients, and improving everyone’s health and happiness.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A CHEF? My parents are fantastic cooks, and growing up in a pub, as soon as I was old enough, my dad put me to work in the kitchen. I loved being around the chefs and the food, and I quickly got to help with the actual cooking. That’s where it all began.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO DEDICATE A LARGE PORTION OF YOUR CAREER TO IMPROVING CHILDREN’S EATING HABITS? I think having kids of my own focused my attention on the next generation and what we can do to make sure they have happier, healthier lives. My current focus is transforming the environment that leads people to become obese. That means better food education, laws to stop companies promoting junk food

to kids, limits on how much salt, fat and sugar can go into our food, and making a conscious effort to make it easier (and cheaper) for people to eat well every day. I’m a great believer that if you give children (or, anyone!) clear, useful information more often than not they’ll make the right choice.

HOW DO YOU ENCOURAGE YOUR PRIMARY-AGED CHILDREN TO TAKE AN INTEREST IN INGREDIENTS?

Jamie’s Minty Yoghurt Dip

I can’t recommend enough getting them involved in the kitchen nice and early, to spark an excitement about food. Even simple jobs like getting them to pick herb leaves or stir a batter will give them a great sense of accomplishment and will mean they start to understand, and be interested in food.

Ingredients: 4 sprigs of fresh mint 1 lemon ¼ clove of garlic 200g natural yoghurt salt & pepper

HOW DO YOU ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILDREN TO REACH FOR A HEALTHY SNACK? Fresh fruit is really brilliant! Try making your own popcorn, for instance, flavoured with cinnamon or lemon zest. Dips are super-easy to make: I’ve got a really tasty minty yoghurt dip to serve with crunchy colourful veg!

WITH THE RETURN OF JAMIE AND JIMMY’S FRIDAY NIGHT FEAST, WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO HOMEMADE FRIDAY NIGHT FAMILY DINNER?

About Jamie Parent, chef and restaurateur, Jamie Oliver started cooking at his parent’s pub at the age of eight. After leaving school, he began a career as a chef that took him to the River Café, where he was famously spotted by a television production company and the Naked Chef was born.

Just an amazing curry – rice, all the pickles, homemade flatbreads. All the different spices and flavours. Happy days.

1. Finely chop the mint leaves, and add them to a mixing bowl. 2. Grate the zest of half a lemon into the bowl, then cut the lemon in half before squeezing the juice into the bowl. 3. Peel and chop the garlic and add it to the mixture. 4. Add the yoghurt, salt and pepper and stir everything together! You’re good to go.

YOU’RE CAMPAIGNING FOR A HEALTHY RATING SCHEME IN SCHOOLS, WHAT DOES A 5* SCHOOL LOOK LIKE TO YOU? A five-star school will meet school dinner food standards, teach kids about the food they eat, and encourage them to be active too. On a Friday Night Feast episode later this year I go into a school to explore exactly why this stuff matters. Don’t miss it!

Jamie and Jimmy’s Friday Night Feast returns to Channel 4 this December.

Award for Outstanding Teaching

Education News

TfL Book Competition Winners

Transport for London (TfL) has chosen the winners of its children’s book competition which tells the stories of women in transport. The competition marked the centenary of the first women in the UK winning the right to vote. Winners Tess Kearney, now aged 8, Ibraheem Saleemi, now aged 9, and Isra Sulevani, now aged 14, have had their stories and images turned into a limited edition book, ‘Keeping London Moving’, with the winning drawing featured on the front page. They also got to take part in a behind the scenes tour of TfL, discovering the different job roles there are in the transport industry. Children had to use their imaginations to draw a picture or write a story about how women at TfL keep London moving.

Physics teacher Edith Goakes from Wimbledon High School has been recognised for her exceptional work by the Institute of Physics (IOP), winning the Institute Of Physics Award For Outstanding Teaching. Edith is just one of seven teachers in the UK to receive a 2018 Teachers of Physics Award from the IOP for her exceptional work teaching physics. Edith’s citation for the award described her as “a spearhead for the schoolwide Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Maths (STEAM) initiative, designing and fundraising for a new STEAM room. Collaborating with other departments across the school, Edith has led on cross-departmental projects such as building prosthetic limbs with Design Technology and simulating an earthquake with Geography. As a result of Edith’s drive and enthusiasm, students are now making crossdiscipline connections with a sense of curiosity and wonder. Edith ignites within the young women she teaches an unabashed passion for all things physics. Her teaching style, both energetic and inclusive, makes space within the classroom for independent intellectual discovery.”

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

Education News

Tess Kearney from Wandsworth illustrated what it would be like to be a crane operator (5-7 Drawing Category). She told Primary Times, “I was very happy to hear that my picture was chosen to be used in the book. I like drawing and I think that women can do anything if they try. I’d also like to drive a crane!” Ibraheem Saleemi from Redbridge wrote about a Dial-A-Ride driver going the extra mile to ensure her customer wasn’t scared as she transported her at Halloween (7-11 Writing Category).

atie lown’s K Shivering Snowman

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

Snow Word Search K

M C

O A

C O A

O C A

D Q

E M

V G U G O

N O W B

N O W M A N

G N

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

A n s w e r s

Winter Sudoku

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

Where do snowmen get the weather report? The Winternet!

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

Postcode: School:

Send your entry together with this completed form to:

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

competitions@primarytimes.biz

Closing date 18 January 2019. Good Luck!

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

Colouring Corner

Win a Nativity Rocks! Prize Bundle

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

Win a Mega Stationery Bundle with STABILO

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

Win a Paddington 2 Christmas Edition DVD

Competitions

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

Win a box of books for your school

Primary Times are offering schools the chance to win a selection of great books for their library. We have a whole box full of titles from super stories to fun educational books. We have several boxes of books to give away and the titles in each may differ. To enter the competition send your name, address, phone number and the name of your school using the details below.

To enter any of the competitions send your answer along with your name, age, school, address and phone number to Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London, SE12 8LG. Don’t forget to include the name of the competition. Alternatively email your answer and details to competitions@primarytimes.biz with the competition name as the subject by Friday 18 January 2019. If you are entering more than one competition you can put all entries in the same envelope. Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

What’s On

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

December Sat 22 Dec – Sun 6 Jan The Fabularium, Royal Botanical Gardens Kew, Richmond, TW9 3AE

11am-3pm. Go on an outdoor adventure with Grimbert the Badger and Reynard the Fox. This new performance is brought to Kew by outdoor performance specialists (Excludes 25 and 26 Dec). Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.kew.org

Winter Walks, Royal Botanical Gardens Kew, Richmond, TW9 3AE 11am-3pm. Set off on a wintry adventure on self-led trails, and find out which plants come into their own in the winter months. (Excludes 25 and 26 Dec). Admission charges apply. For more details visit www. kew.org

Storytelling with Rachel Rose Reid, Royal Botanical Gardens Kew, Richmond, TW9 3AE

11am-3pm. Cosy up with tales and songs of the natural world, forest life, and ancient trees. (Excludes 25 and 26 Dec). Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.kew.org

Snow Ball, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX

12noon. Show off your best fancy dress and learn dance moves to your favourite seasonal hits at this winter ball, featuring games and festive fun for the entire family. For more details visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Sun 23 Dec

Christmas Truce Cartoon Family Workshop, National Army Museum, SW3 4HT

(Also 27, 28, 30 Dec and 6 Jan) 11am-1pm and 2-4pm. Enjoy a series of family-friendly performances, telling the stories behind Christmas postcards sent by soldiers and their loved ones during the First World War. For more information visit www.nam.ac.uk

Mon 24 Dec

Crib Family Service, St Martin-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square, WC2N 4JH 1.30-2.30pm. A lively service of readings and carols particularly suitable for younger members of the family and including the Blessing of the Crib. For more details visit www. stmartin-in-the-fields.org

Wed 26 Dec – Tues 1 Jan Winter Trail, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL

Bring the whole family on this special trail across the Castle estate. Collect clues along the way and hand back your completed trail card to be entered into a prize draw. Charges apply. For more information visit www.leeds-castle.com

Sat 29 Dec

Big Game 11: Harlequins V Wasps, Twickenham Stadium, TW2 7BA

Join Harlequins for a fun-filled family day out. With loads of activities off the pitch, spectacular entertainment and incredible atmosphere to accompany the rugby, this is an event you don’t want to miss. Charges apply. For more details visit www. quins.co.uk

Mon 31 Dec - Tues 1 Jan

London New Year’s Eve Fireworks 2018, Thames Riverside, Central London, SE1

8pm-12.45am. Enjoy the mayor’s spectacular London New Year’s Eve Fireworks celebration. Booking is essential. For more details visit www. london.gov.uk

January Tues 1 Jan

London’s New Year’s Day Parade 2019, Various Locations

Celebrate 2019 with this annual parade through central London, featuring thousands of performers and colourful floats from across the world. Watch for free along the parade route, or book grandstand tickets. For more details visit www. visitlondon.com

Wed 2 Jan

Trouble on the River Bank, Polka Theatre, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB

Work with a professional actor to devise scenes inspired by the production of The Wind in the Willows. Through a mixture of drama techniques, you will create a variety of different characters that you may find somewhere along the river. Ages 9+. Charges apply.Visit www. polkatheatre.com

Thurs 3 Jan

Mask Fun with Ratty, Toad and Badger, Polka Theatre, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB

10.30am-3.30pm. Design and make your own animal masks. Explore performance skills including character, movement and focus in this

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

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

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Sat 12 Jan

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

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drama and mask making workshop. Ages 6-8. Charges apply. Booking is essential. For more details visit www. polkatheatre.com

Fri 4 Jan

Winter Tales, Polka Theatre, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB

3.30pm. Go along, curl up on a cushion and listen to some frosty tales inspired by winter. Ages 4-5. Charges apply. Booking is essential. For more details visit www. polkatheatre.com

Sat 5 Jan

Hands on Base: Horniman Explorers, Horniman Museum and Gardens, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ

(Also 12, 19 & 26 Jan) 11am-12.30pm. Discover the collections that make the Horniman special. Experience real things from African masks, spice jars, pueblo drums to sharks jaws. For more details visit www.horniman. ac.uk

Art Makers: Polish Rod Puppets, Horniman Museum and Gardens, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ

1.30-2.15pm, 2.45-3.30pm. Be inspired by the beautiful Polish Puppet Theatre in the World Gallery and create your own little puppet characters. Ages 3+. Charges apply. For more details visit www.horniman. ac.uk

Sun 6 Jan

A World of Stories, Horniman Museum and Gardens, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ (Also 13, 20 & 27 Jan) 2-2.45pm and 3.15-4pm. Join in the Horniman’s Hands on Base for an enjoyable storytelling session to see why so many people across the world love listening to stories. Free, drop-in. For more information visit www.horniman.ac.uk

Fri 11 Jan – Fri 8 Feb

Creative Explorers, Polka Theatre, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB

(Fridays only). Creative workshops for children in Reception. Expect imaginative play, movement, games and stories to develop communication and social skills, build confidence and encourage self-expression. Ages 4-5. Charges apply. For more details visit www. polkatheatre.com

Art Makers: Brilliant Bugles, Horniman Museum and Gardens, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ

(Also 19 Jan) 1.30-2.15pm, 2.453.30pm. Be inspired by the beautiful bugles in the Hands on Base and Music Gallery and have fun making your own toy Bugle to blow. Ages 3+. Charges apply. For more details visit www.horniman.ac.uk

Sat 19 Jan

Mini Maestro Family Concert, St Martin-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square, WC2N 4JH 4.30-5.30pm. Solo flute, Recorder, Violin and Harpsichord can all be heard in glorious harmony together as you are taken on a journey through some of Bach’s wonderful Brandenburg Concertos. For more details and to book visit www. stmartin-in-the-fields.org

Sat 19 – Sun 20 Jan

Big Wetland Birdwatch, Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD

11am-3pm. Discover a wealth of wetland bird life at Morden Hall Park. Join expert volunteers and help us to identify the feathered friends that call this urban oasis home. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/morden-hall-park

Sat 26 Jan

Art Makers: Chinese Dragon Mask, Horniman Museum and Gardens, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ 1.30-2.15pm, 2.45-3.30pm. Go along and celebrate Chinese New Year by making a fabulous dragon mask. Ages 3+. Charges apply. For more details visit www.horniman.ac.uk

Sun 27 Jan

Holocaust Memorial Day Ceremony, Lambeth Assembly Hall, SW2 1RW

2.30-4.30pm. This event, to be attended by the Mayor of Lambeth, Cllr Christopher Wellbelove, will remember, honour and share stories from those persecuted in the Holocaust and subsequent genocides. The audience will hear from a Holocaust survivor. For more details visit www.hmd.org.uk

February Sat 9 Feb

London’s Children Book Swap, Unicorn Theatre, SE1 2HZ 12noon-5pm. Bring your old books for a day of book swapping, free activities and fun. For more details visit www.unicorntheatre.com

Our next copy deadline is

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

listings@ primarytimes.biz

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

Nativity Rocks! The kids from St Bernadette’s Primary School are back as the staff and students audition for a coveted place in a spectacular rock opera to prove Coventry can become Christmas Town of the Year.With preparations in full swing, Jerry Poppy arrives to reunite with his long-lost brother only to find he has emigrated. Sensing an opportunity, Mrs Keen enlists rock loving Jerry to help stressed out teacher Mr Johnson get St Bernadette’s through the auditions. In the midst of the excitement, a new classmate Doru arrives, accompanied by his social worker, Miss Shelly. Separated from his dad on his dangerous journey to the UK, Doru is without a family at Christmas.When Doru runs away to Shropshire to try and find his dad, the race is on to find him before Christmas. It’s down to the children and the greatest story never told to bring everyone back to what’s really important. Nativity Rocks! is in cinemas now.

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

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

Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck It Ralph 2

In Ralph Breaks the Internet:Wreck It Ralph 2,Vanellope von Schweetz along with her best friend, Ralph, ventures into the uncharted world of the internet. On a quest to save Vanellope’s racing game, she and Ralph set off on a mission to find a new part. How will these two misfits ever succeed in this vast new world? In way over their heads, Ralph and Vanellope rely on the citizens of the internet, the netizens, to help navigate their way, including a website Pokémon the Movie:The Power of Us, will be in cinemas on 24 November and entrepreneur named Yesss, who is the head algorithm and the heart 1 December, with additional screening in selected cinemas until 3 December. and soul of trend-making website, Buzztube. Based on the globally popular Pokémon brand, the film tells a new story of Ash When Vanellope finds herself surrounded by Disney princesses, she’s and Pikachu as they team up with diverse characters to face unique challenges surprised to learn that she actually has a lot in common with them. and thrilling Pokémon battles in a Featuring Sarah Silverman as the voice of Vanellope, Ralph Breaks the heartwarming film that illustrates Internet:Wreck It Ralph 2 opens in UK cinemas on 30 November. the value of teamwork.The new installment takes place in the seaside town of Frau City, where an annual Looking forward to next year, The Secret Life of festival celebrating the legendary Pets 2 will follow summer 2016’s blockbuster Pokémon Lugia is held each year. about the lives pets lead after their owner’s leave The feature-length anime film has for work or school each day. Katie and Max the a unique art style, new characters, dog go for a seemingly nice walk, only for Max and some exciting and fun surprises. to be tricked into going to the vet. Inside, Max is Continuing from last year’s Pokémon introduced to several interesting and humorous the Movie: I Choose You, it follows Ash and Pikachu as they continue with animal characters, all there to see the doctor their Pokémon-capturing adventures. For more information, visit www. specialising in behavioural disorders. If 2016 is anything to go by, the new film is sure to fathomanimation.com. be a hit. The Secret Life of Pets will be released on 27 May 2019.

Pokémon the Movie: The Power of Us

The Secret Life of Pets 2

WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN To be in with a chance of winning one of ﬁve Nativity Rocks! prize bundles, send an email to competitions@primarytimes.biz with ‘Nativity Rocks’ as the subject by Friday 18 January. Don’t forget to include your name, age, address, school and contact telephone number.

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

All your own work! Anastasija Pukianec aged 8

Sama Fayas aged 5 Bradley and Logan Dean each won a Kindle with competitions in our October Half Term issue. Amelia Congratulations to the following people who won Moscow State Circus winners were Stacey tition. compe Card' as Christm the Primary Times Leaders are Readers. Gabriel Eufrasia won the 'Design Louisa Smith, Andrea Michael and Anna. Our Hart, Karen Virtue, Lรกslรณ Nagy, Simran Shah, Tilly Macfarlane, Stella Marie Renfrew, Claire McFadden, e and Adele Griffiths won tickets for ice Theatr Hall bly Assem the to tickets ers won Rose Theatre winner was Rylie Webber. Will Saund Theatre. Grinch goody bags were won by Hazlitt the at a VIP experience to Aladdin skating in Tunbridge Wells. Carrie-Ann Barton won ice skating tickets were won by Graham and Hudson Jones. Hampton Court Palace Leon Taylor, Matthew Clarke, Harry Connor, Keziah Belaid Boukhirane. Mia Jenkins and mar Sivaku Aparna , Grace Offord, Sophia Busby, Ellie Bignold, Emily Utting, Lewis Khoo, Olivia Molloy books for her school - Hawkhurst Show. Isabelle Holly Louise Edwards won a box of won tickets to the Orange Tree Theatre Christmas were won by Amelia Shaw, Caspar prizes up s runner and Castle mini-break competition Primary School. Allan Hopkins aged 4 won our Leeds tte Nardini. Sama Fayas won the Annie drawing Nalepa, Arabella Lincoln, Ronnie Tietjen and Charlo If you would like to see ec won it for the older group. Well done to all our Pukian sija competition for the under 8s and Anasta your work displayed winners and enjoy the artwork on this page.

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

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

DVDs for Christmas Elf Pets: Santa’s St Bernards Save Christmas

Sherlock Gnomes

The beloved garden gnomes from Gnomeo and Juliet are back for a From the creators of The Elf on the Shelf comes this holiday’s whole new adventure in London. When the couple first arrive in the city must-own animated adventure, Elf Pets: Santa’s St Bernards Save with their friends and family, their biggest concern is getting their new Christmas. garden ready for spring. However, they soon discover that someone What happens when an entire town forgets is kidnapping garden gnomes all over London. When the true spirit of the Christmas season? Gnomeo and Juliet return home to find that everyone Santa discovers there’s not enough spirit to in their garden is missing, there’s only one gnome to make Christmas magical so he asks for call, Sherlock Gnomes. The famous detective and help from his loveable Scout Elves, an sworn protector of London’s garden gnomes arrives adorable slew of Saint Bernard pups and with his sidekick Watson to investigate the case. One one big-hearted family to bring back the step ahead of our heroes is Sherlock’s oldest foe, MoChristmas spirit. They work together to riarty, a maniacal pie mascot obsessed with Sherlock change their community for the better and the gnomes he’s sworn to protect. The mystery and ensure Santa’s yuletide mission will lead the gnomes on a rollicking adventure where succeeds. they will meet all new ornaments and explore an undisWith brand new original songs and a sing-a-long version covered side of the city. Sherlock Gnomes is available now. to boost the entire family’s Christmas cheer, join the Saint Bernard pups and discover how they encourage children to engage in acts of kindness to generate joy. Running at only 26 minutes, the film is perfect The Big Bad Fox and Other Tales to squeeze in during a Christmas movie marathon, or to quickly From the creators of Ernest and Celestine, and featuring a host of voices watch to put you in the festive spirit. Elf Pets: Santa’s St Bernards Save from the world of British comedy, the animated family Christmas is available on DVD and Digital Download now. adventure The Big Bad Fox and Other Tales will sleigh Hotel Transylvania 3: A Monster Vacation onto DVD and Digital Download from 26 November. The nation’s favourite monster family are back and this adventure The Big Bad Fox and Other Tales is a hilarious advenpromises to be bigger and better than ever. Drac and the family are ture about a gang of animal misfits. Told through beautaking a summer vacation from providing everyone else’s vacation at tiful hand drawn animation, the story unfolds around the hotel, so embark on a holiday on a luxury these lovable countryside creatures as they try (and fail) monster cruise ship. It’s smooth sailing for to fulfil their traditional roles in the farm and the forest. Drac’s Pack as the monsters indulge in all of A lazy stork leaves the delivery of a baby in the care the shipboard fun the cruise has to offer, from of a rabbit, a pig and a duck. A big, bad fox tries to live monster volleyball to exotic excursions, and up to his reputation whilst he unwittingly adopts three catching up on their moon tans. However, the confused baby chicks, and – in the film’s final tale – the dream vacation turns into a nightmare when animals embark on a hair brained scheme to replace Mavis realizes Drac has fallen for the mysterious Father Christmas. Hilarious, heart-warming and loveable, captain of the ship, Ericka. Little do they know that The Big Bad Fox and Other Tales is a must-own for family audiences this his “too good to be true” love interest is actually Christmas. a descendant of Abraham Van Helsing, ancient nemesis to Dracula and all other monsters, and she hides a dangerous The Star secret that could destroy all of monsterkind.The latest instalment in the In The Star, Bo is a pint-sized donkey who wholeheartedly believes Hotel Transylvania adventure is available on 3 December. he is destined for a bigger purpose and that greatness awaits him Incredibles 2 outside the mill walls. One day he finds the courage to break free, and The Parr family are back, with their incredible story picking up where the finally goes on the adventure of his dreams. On his previous film finished in 2004. Helen, aka Elastigirl, continues to fight crime journey, he teams up with Ruth, a loveable sheep using her stretching powers, whilst also leading a camwho has lost her flock and Dave, a dove with lofty paign to bring Supers back. Meanwhile, Bob navigates aspirations. Along with three wisecracking camels the day-to-day heroics of ‘normal’ life at home with and some eccentric stable animals, Bo and his Violet, Dash and baby Jack-Jack, whose superpowers new friends follow the Star and become unlikely are about to be discovered.Their mission is derailed, heroes in the greatest story ever told – the first however, when a new villain emerges with a brilliant and Christmas. Together these three, up against the evil dangerous plot that threatens everything. But the Parrs Palace dogs, Thaddeus and Rufus, must adventure don’t shy away from a challenge, especially with Frozone to become unsung heroes of the Christmas story by their side.Together they must find a way to work and meet lots of friends along the way. The Star is together again – which is easier said than done, even available now. when they’re all Incredible. Incredibles 2 is available now.

26 Nov ‘18 - 3 Feb ‘19

LETTER TO SANTA COMPETITION Win a family ticket to see Hansel & Gretel at Rose Theatre Kingston

Tell Santa why Hansel & Gretel were not able to find their way home after being left in the woods. A lucky winner will receive a family ticket* to see Hansel & Gretel on Saturday 5th January at 1.30pm. Every letter will receive a reply and a small gift* so please include your name, age and address on your letter.

Starts 15th Nov

Pop your letter in Santaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s special post box in Eden Walk by 6pm on 17th December.

*For more information and T&Cs visit our website