SW London February Half Term 2018 Primary Times by Alison Watson

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IDE U NG O T’S A WH

for families with primary aged children

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

in South West London

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

The Best Family Guide to What’s On

Dear Readers

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

Peter and the Primary

Times team

Contents

inside this issue.... News................................................... 4 What’s On Diary.................................. 6 Family Theatre.................................... 8 Whatever the Weather............................10 Education News.................................. 14 Out of School Activities...................... 16 Competitions...................................... 19 All About You!................................... 23

The Primary Times Team: Publishing Editor: Peter Watson Sales: Andrew Langridge, Gill Pearce Sarah-Jane Chapple & Clarry Frewin ... the UK’s biggest free Listings: Hayley Hughes & ‘What’s On’ magazine Miriam Theobald for parents. Editorial: Anna Stringer & Primary Times in Dunya Simões South West London distributes Production: Alison Watson more than 37,500 copies Office Manager: Chris Blower seven times a year and is Administrators: Claire Wood & part of a national network Tina Love distributing more than 2.7 Proof Reader: Catherine Draisey million copies in 59 regions Social Media: Rachel Benson across the UK & Ireland

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

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

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.

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

News

An International Dining Experience

Chrysalis Care Independent Fostering Agency

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

Celebrating Ten Years of School Gardening The Duchess of Cambridge visited green fingered youngsters at Robin Hood Primary School in Kingston Vale to celebrate ten years of the Royal Horticultural Society’s (RHS) Campaign for School Gardening. The Duchess got straight to work with some of the school’s 5-11 year old pupils, helping to plant springflowering bulbs – including daffodils and snake’s head fritillaries - and build bug hotels for garden insects in the shadow of the school’s existing ‘Buggingham Palace’. During the visit, The Duchess received a briefing on the RHS nationwide campaign and heard from the keen young gardeners about what they enjoy most about learning in a garden setting and from teachers about its impact. Robin Hood Primary School is one of over 34,000 schools and youth groups now signed up to the RHS campaign which calls for all children to be given the chance to garden. With support from the RHS, the school has developed a progressive outdoor learning curriculum where pupils have access to a range of outdoor classrooms in a woodland setting. These give children the opportunity to explore the natural environment and take part in challenging yet achievable activities that bring learning to life. Schools and youth groups can sign-up to receive free resources and support from the RHS Campaign for School Gardening at www.rhs. org.uk/schoolgardening. Useful tools include seeds, plant labels, stickers and posters, as well as ideas for practical activities and lesson plans to help make the most of a school garden. 4

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

If you love great food and don’t want to spend a fortune, you’ll love JRC Buffet. With hundreds of freshly prepared dishes from all over the world, you’ll find all your old favourites as well as new dishes for you to enjoy. Families love visiting JRC Buffet as there’s something for everyone – it’s also a great opportunity for parents to encourage their children to be adventurous and try new flavours. Even the fussiest eater will find new dishes they’ll love. With a wide selection of Live Cooking Stations, where expert chefs prepare dishes right in front of your eyes, it’s a dining experience like no other. If you aren’t too full from trying all the main dishes, you will love the wide selection of mouth-watering desserts, all beautifully presented. Visitors young and old love dipping marshmallows and fresh fruit into the milk chocolate fountain. This year the selection at JRC gets even better, as there are even more dishes available at the European section. There are also more dishes added for festivals throughout the year. For example, at Chinese New Year you’ll find delicious Chinese buns and dumplings. Don’t forget you can also enjoy as much food as you like for one set price. To hear about the latest news and offers, visit www.jrc-globalbuffet. com and sign up to the newsletter.

Harlequins Rugby

Home to Harlequins, The Stoop has been known for its family friendly atmosphere for years. A day at the rugby has never been so enjoyable as Harlequins continue to make The Stoop a welcoming environment for all. As a family oriented club, there really is something for everyone at a Harlequins match, from live music to a dedicated junior supporters’ area fully equipped with everything your little ones need to keep them entertained before the match kicks off. With 150 years of history behind them, Harlequins are well-known for their world-class entertainment on and off the pitch, playing a scintillating brand of rugby that sets the crowd alight. There’s still lots of rugby to be played at The Stoop this season. With junior tickets starting at just £7, a day out for the whole family in London has never been such good value. The Stoop is set to host a number of fantastic matches in 2018, including the Aviva Premiership and Champions Cup, RAF v Navy and even the England Legends v Irish Legends match on St Patrick’s weekend. You can watch world-class women’s rugby at The Stoop as current league leaders, Harlequins Ladies will reignite an historic rivalry against Richmond Ladies on 11 March. Tickets for this match are, yet again, incredible value at just £10 for adults and £5 for Juniors. Bring the family down and see for yourself, you might just become a fan. Photo credit: Getty Images

An award-winning Kingston University nursing graduate has drawn on her experience working in schools to create an innovative children’s book that helps young people find the right words to express their emotions – assisted by a little badger with a temper. Katrina Sealey wrote Angry, ANGRY Angus while working in her first graduate role as a school nurse and was recently recognised for the impact she has already made on the profession with the Rising Star accolade at this year’s Nursing Times awards. The illustrated book aims to introduce children to the language they need to express their emotions appropriately from a younger age. Some of the responses from young children to readings of the book at local libraries were really eye-opening, Katrina explains “when one girl drew the angry person it had spikey stick fingers. I asked her about it and she said her fingers go spikey when she feels angry.” This book will help parents and children discuss emotions in a productive, educational way. It’s available to purchase from Amazon, RRP £5.99.

Ruby Rides an Elephant

A vibrant new picture book celebrating diversity and encouraging curiosity in other cultures, Ruby Rides an Elephant is inspired by the author’s own experience of teaching her mixed-race children about their Sri Lankan heritage.

News

Helping Kids Vocalise Emotions

When Putney resident and mother Ruby Lovell struggled to find a picture book representing her Anglo-Asian children, she decided to write her own story. A chance meeting at the school gates with fellow Putney based mother and artist Zara Merrick sparked the idea for Ruby Rides an Elephant, a beautifully illustrated adventure featuring a mixed-race main character and the vibrant colours, sounds and flavours of South Asia. Stories in the book draw directly from real-life holidays Ruby would take to Sri Lanka with her sons to teach them about their cultural heritage, from feeding rescue elephants to eating pineapples for the first time. This authentic exploration will introduce children to a wealth of new cultural experiences and spark their imagination, educate them and instil a sense of adventure. Ruby Rides an Elephant is perfect for ages 3+ and available for purchase from 8 March, RRP £6.99.

A New Year of Disney Entertainment

Although winter is nearly finished, there’s still time to stay indoors and watch some of the great new shows that Disney Channel has on offer for February. Mickey and the Roadster Racers zoom back onto Disney Junior with more high speed and high jinks from Monday 19 February. In the first of the weeknight episodes, Donald is left in charge of the garage but his management style causes problems with the rest of the gang. Vampirina is back with more fun and games this month. Based on the hit children’s books Vampirina Ballerina, this animated series features Vee, a vampire girl whose family moves to Pennsylvania to run a guest house for ghouls and goblins. She’s constantly juggling between her vampire and human friends and family. In the episode entitled Hide and Shriek, Bridget disappears during a game of hide and shriek. Is she in the legendary invisible room? Episodes of Vampirina air on weekdays from Monday 26 February.

Chocolate Orange Brownies

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

Method:

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

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

Stage 1

stage 2 start

stage 2 finish

stage 3 start

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

2 Melt the butter, dark chocolate and orange zest over a gentle heat and then leave to cool.

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

stage 3 finish

stage 4 29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

stage 5 5

What’s On Your family diary for February and March Ongoing Until 9 Feb

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

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

February Fri 2 Feb

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

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

Sat 3 Feb

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

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

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

Sat 3 - Sun 4 Feb

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

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Sun 4 Feb

Story Time, Hampton Court Palace, KT8 9AU

Enjoy a well-known story in the comfort of the palace and join in with themed toys. Ages 3-7. For times and more information visit www.hrp. org.uk/hampton-court-palace

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

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

Water World, Orleans House Gallery, Twickenham, TW1 3DJ 2-3.30pm. Considering the works in the Stables Gallery, create your own water themed artworks in this Sunday Afternoon Art session. Ages 4+. No booking necessary. For more information visit www.richmond. gov.uk

Wed 7 – Sun 18 Feb

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

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

Fri 9 Feb

Family Fridays, Trinity House, Clapham, SW4 0BN

4-6pm. Part of the Holy Trinity’s outreach to the local community, a place where parents and children are supported to spend time together

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

”

in a relaxed, fun environment. Parents can help with their children’s homework, prepare and serve food together and play games. For more information visit www. holytrinityclapham.org

Sat 10 Feb

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

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

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

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

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

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

Flower Arranging for Families, Richmond and Hillcroft Adult Community College, TW9 2RE

10.30am-1pm.You will be introduced to a range of flowers and foliage, how to care for them and how to use tools carefully to create your designs. The college will provide flowers and foliage. For more information and to book visit www.rhacc.ac.uk

Dad Day, Whittaker Ellis Suite, Old Town Hall, Richmond, TW9 1TP

10am-12noon. A programme of creative activities for Dads or male carers and their children from babies to 10 years. Have fun exploring the gallery, playing with clay, creating collages, making masks and much more. For more information call 020 8831 6000 or visit www.richmond.gov.uk

Sat 10 – Sun 11 Feb

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

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

Sat 10 – Sun 18 Feb

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

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

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

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

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

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

Knight School, Tower of London, EC3N 4AB

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

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

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

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29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Family Theatre

Polka Theatre, Wimbledon

23 – 25 Mar

Box Office: 020 8543 4888 Until 11 Feb

My Brother, My Sister and Me

Family Theatre Battersea Arts Centre Box Office: 020 7223 2223 15 – 17 Feb

Noisy Holiday

A ridiculous yet charming story about going on holiday with silliness and mischief for the whole family. Expect sand in your sandwiches, upside down sat navs and Badger’s towel on your sun lounger. Ages 3-8.

Colour House Theatre, Merton Abbey Mills Box Office: 020 8542 5511 3 Feb – 8 Apr

Pinocchio

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

Southbank Centre SE1 Box Office: 020 3879 9555 10 – 12 Feb

Me and My Bee

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

Craftsman Geppetto has made an incredible little wooden 14 – 15 Feb puppet, Pinocchio, Windibops however one magical Enjoy Join Volta Flatulence, night his creation the show! Caroline Trumpface, transforms into And don’t Sally Silent But a real boy. Deadly and Daisy forget to say Pinocchio’s Parphead as they adventure has just you saw it in invite audiences begun… Primary to their laboratory Times! to investigate the link 13 Feb between flatulence and global Jonny Awsum warming. Ages 5+. A show for kids of all ages from 5 to 105 filled with Jonny’s unique combination of music and laughter. Followed by a meet and greet session with Jonny and a photo opportunity.

Hampton Hill Theatre Box Office: 07436 809 622 16 – 17 Feb

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

Panto presented by The Star Pantomime Group in aid of the SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen Family Association).

Shakespeare’s Globe SE1 Box Office: 020 7401 9919 27 Mar – 21 Apr

The Little Matchgirl and Other Happier Tales 8

16 Feb

The Hilariously Funny World Of…

Comedian James Campbell presents a hilarious stand-up comedy show for children 6+.

16 – 18 Feb

Tidy Up

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

Orange Tree Richmond Box Office: 020 8940 3633 Until 3 Mar

How to be a Kid

Now Molly’s Mum is feeling better, maybe things will get back to normal. Can you help Molly learn how to be a kid again? Ages 7+.

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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

14 – 18 Feb

I Believe in Unicorns

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

14 – 18 Feb

Hush-A-Bye

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

22 Feb – 4 Mar

Grandad’s Island

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

22 – 25 Feb

Tidy Up

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

8 – 11 Mar

The Boy who Climbed into the Moon

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

9 – 11 Mar

Videk’s Shirt

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

16 – 18 Mar

The Steadfast Soldier

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

The Little Mochi Man

With ‘origami’ puppets, animation and specially composed music, this is the perfect introduction to Japan for young children. Ages 4-7.

23 Mar – 13 May

Michael Rosen’s Chocolate Cake

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

Richmond Theatre Box Office: 08448 717 651 7 – 10 Feb The Jungle Book

An exciting new adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s family classic, The Jungle Book, is loved as a wild and fun tale of family, belonging and identity. Ages 6+.

12 - 13 Feb

Tiddler and Other Terrific Tales Colourful characters from Julia Donaldson and Alex Scheffler’s best-loved titles are woven together with live music and puppetry.

Rose Kingston Box Office: 020 8174 0090 28 Mar – 7 Apr

George’s Marvellous Medicine

George sets about creating a brand new medicine to cure his grandmother of her cruelty. Little does he know that his perilous potion will be the start of a rather marvellous adventure. Ages 5+.

The Exchange, Twickenham Box Office: 020 8240 2399 16 Feb

Little Goats

The tale of ‘The 3 Billy Goats Gruff’ is retold in this interactive show for children under 6 years. Go along and join the family fun in this Maaaa-gnificent adventure.

Ovalhouse Theatre SE11 Box Office: 020 7582 7680 16 – 17 Feb

One Item Only

Follow one child’s journey across continents in search of refuge from her troubled homeland, in this eventful and uplifting story of hope and resilience where the human spirit triumphs. Ages 7+.

This Half Term and beyond, Southbank Centre’s annual festival run by kids for kids returns, running from 7 February to 18 February. There’s a load to do for ages 0–12 across 12 days of jam-packed fun including live music, children’s theatre, drawing workshops and talks from inspirational authors. This year’s highlights include a screening of the animated adaptation of Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes with live music from the Southbank Sinfonia, ITV’s Harry Hill and Beano illustrator Steve May discussing their new book (with drawing and mischiefmaking) and Jacqueline Wilson discussing her latest book Wave Me Goodbye as well as her much-loved characters like Hetty Feather and Tracy Beaker.

Family Theatre Chocolate Cake at Polka Theatre

When I was a boy I had a favourite treat… Chocolate Cake! Coming to the Polka Theatre’s main stage between 23 March and 13 May is Chocolate Cake, based on the poem by Michael Rosen, now brought to life as a picture book for the first time with brilliant and characterful illustrations by Kevin Waldron. Follow the adventures of two brothers and the night-time disappearance of a chocolate cake in this scrumptious new musical adaptation by the creators of We’re Going on a Bear Hunt and How to Hide a Lion from Michael Rosen’s beloved poem, fantastically funny and full of silly noises. Chocolate Cake has been adapted by Peter Glanville and Barb Jungr with music and songs by Barb Jungr. The show has a running time of 50 minutes and is suitable for ages 4+. To book or to find out more, visit www. polkatheatre.com. Ohhh! I LOVED Chocolate Cake.

Time to Party Family Theatre

Imagine Children’s Festival

Superhero fans can discover their own powers and create their own superhero identity at an inclusive workshop by Touretteshero and hear Radio 1’s Greg James and Chris Smith talk about their new superhero-themed bestselling book, Kid Normal. Over half of the festival is free. Ben Shires, presenter of CBBC’s Officially Amazing, MOTD Kickabout and Shout Out Saturday, hosts many of these in The Clore Ballroom at Royal Festival Hall from 10.30am–4pm. And lastly, for those with younger siblings, the first three days (Wed 7 – Fri 9 Feb) are especially for under-5s, including a comedy club for parents with infants under a year old.

Fri 23 Mar – Sun 13 May A Polka Theatre production

Ages

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

Imagine 7 – 18 Feb

C H I L D R E N ’ S F EST I VA L

12 days of jam-packed fun for all the family

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

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Whatever the Weather! Fun Days Out with the Family Grow your own Greenhouse at Morden Hall Park

Get planting in the paddock (overflow car park) at Morden Hall Park this February Half Term to create your very own portable kitchen and mini-greenhouse garden ready for spring. The Urban Ranger team will teach you and your children how to plant and tend your tiny garden to make sure you get a salad crop. Join the team from Monday 12 to Friday 16 February between 11am-4pm.

Putney, Home of Rowing

Celebrate the start of spring by heading to Putney throughout March to cheer on the teams in rowing races along the River Thames. Since the second half of the 19th century, Putney has been one of the most significant centres for rowing in the United Kingdom. More than twenty rowing clubs are based on the Thames at Putney Embankment and the area has produced a plethora of Olympic medallists. The historic Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race, first contested in 1829 in Henley-onThames, has had Putney as its starting point since 1845. Since 1856 it has been an annual event, beginning at the University Stone, just upstream from Putney Bridge. See if Oxford can hold their winning title again in 2018 as the University Boat Race returns on Saturday 24 March. Several other important rowing races over the Championship Course also either start or finish at the stone, notably the Head of the River Race series starting at Chiswick and finishing at Putney Bridge, with over 300 boats manned by eight people plus a cox from round the country competing against each other. A series of Head of River races, including women’s, schools and veteran’s races are running from Saturday 10 – Monday 12 March and Sunday 25 March. Make a day of it, go along and enjoy the atmosphere by the river as the racers compete. Choose from many fine eating and drinking establishments in Putney and explore the unique offering of shops.

February half term at Morden Hall Park: Grow your own Greenhouse Mon 12 - Fri 16 Feb, 11am - 4.15pm Get planting in the paddock (overflow car park) this February half-term to create your very own portable kitchen garden and mini-greenhouse ready for spring. Online booking essential. £5 per child. Suitable for ages 5+.

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

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

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Half Term at Chessington

Enjoy a selection of your family favourite rides too. Join Mouse on a magical riverboat journey through the deep dark wood on The Gruffalo River Ride Adventure. Journey into a land of sweeping sands and goldmines on board the Scorpion Express or get behind the wheel in a colourful convoy of trucks on Tiny Truckers. Hop onto a giraffe and ride around the magical and mystical Adventure Tree, learn spells in the bewitched Hocus Pocus Hall and play amongst real life monkeys by following the trail through AMAZU Treetop Adventure. Visit Chessington from 10-18 February from just £14 per person and experience a Half Term like never before. To book, visit www. Chessington.com.

Whatever the Weather!

Booking is essential and slots are available throughout the day. The cost is £5 per child and it’s suitable for ages 5+. For more information and to book, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park. Why not make a day of it? With 125 acres to explore you can while away hours galloping through meadows, discovering riverside paths, spotting wildlife from the new boardwalk or burning off some energy in the natural play area. A visit to Morden Hall Park wouldn’t be complete without a little something at one of the cafes. The Potting Shed Café offers delicious handmade fare and the ice cream parlour in the Stableyard also serves drinks and light refreshments. If a spot of shopping appeals, the Morden Hall Park Garden Centre is a treasure trove of gardening goodies. Photo credit: John Millar

Chinese New Year 2018 in London

Perfect for all ages, this February Half Term visit Chessington World of Adventures Resort for the return of Animal Adventures, packed full of fun for the whole family.You can also experience How to be a Zoo Keeper LIVE! — an interactive show where you’ll learn what it takes to become a zookeeper and meet some of Chessington’s animals along the way. Come face to face with tigers, gorillas and King of the Jungle, Kamal, as you venture through the Trail of the Kings. Go underwater with sharks and stingrays in the SEA LIFE centre and don’t forget to visit the Wanyama Village and Reserve, where Grevy’s zebra and the rare Scimitar Horned Oryx roam freely before your very eyes.

Celebrate the beginning of the year of the dog with London’s Chinese New Year, the largest outside Asia, packed with colourful parades, performances and displays in and around Chinatown and London’s West End. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people descend on the West End to enjoy a colourful parade, free stage performances and traditional Chinese food and to wish each other “Xin Nian Kuai Le” (Happy New Year in Mandarin) or “San Nin Faai Lok” (in Cantonese). In 2018, the London celebrations are taking place on 18 February, which is the Sunday following the date of the Chinese New Year (16 February). The festivities kick off with a vibrant parade, starting at 10am with a dragon and lion dance in Charing Cross Road, before snaking its

TE C LE

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TUR FEA

HOW TO BE A ZOOKEEPER LIVE SHOW!

10TH - 18TH FEB

ONLINE TICKETS FROM £14

YOUR YEAR OF FAMILY FUN! FROM £109PP AT CHESSINGTON.COM Terms & Conditions apply. For a full list of Terms and Conditions please visit merlinannualpass.co.uk/information/terms. Sale prices quoted here are for a new Standard Family Merlin Annual Pass per person (£109 per person). For full list of prices please see www.merlinannualpass.co.uk. Sale runs from 1st Jan 2018 to 12th Feb 2018.

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Whatever the Weather!

way through Chinatown. Trafalgar Square will host the main stage performances, including traditional Chinese dance and music shows, and more stages can be found on Shaftesbury Avenue and Charing Cross Road. The kids will love the Leicester Square family zone filled with cultural activities and family-friendly performances, including calligraphy, Chinese music, dressing up in traditional outfits and more. Most importantly, don’t miss out on the great Asian food on offer in one of the two food zones. Tuck into street food in Trafalgar Square, or sit down for a traditional Chinese New Year menu and special festive treats in a Chinatown restaurant. The area around Chinatown and Trafalgar Square gets very busy during London’s Chinese New Year celebrations, so be sure to plan your route in advance and stay safe with your family.

All Centres have free parking, a Café Bar serving breakfast, drinks, snacks, lunch and afternoon tea and most have a children’s play area. Activities are on daily at all Squire’s Garden Centres (except Chertsey and Woking) from Monday 12 until Friday 16 February from 10am-4pm. There’s no need to book, simply buzz along on the day. Plan your day at www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk.

The Vets will See You Now!

Alongside this there will be art activities running daily in the Education Room and families can make their own keyhole with a secret image. The sessions are drop-in from 12noon until 3.45pm. There are plenty of other activities coming up from a tea-themed Mothers’ Day to the Cadbury Egg Hunt: The Safe Cracker, and an Egg-cellent Easter Games. For further information on Ham House’s activities and other family events visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

London Zoo is inviting children to become Zoo vets this February Half Term at Animal Hospital, an award-winning role-playing experience for budding veterinarians. From Saturday 10 to Sunday 18 February as part of Vets in Action, kids will be able to step into the role of a vet at ZSL London Zoo, during a packed week of interactive family events celebrating the incredible work of the Zoo’s vet team. Children will help experts examine, x-ray and carry out treatments on toys - experiencing first-hand the huge variety of work carried out by the Zoo’s vets, vet nurses and zookeepers on a daily basis. A packed schedule of talks and activities throughout the week will take families further inside the exciting world of the Zoo’s animals and the people who look after them.Vets in Action at ZSL London Zoo, will run from Saturday 10 to Sunday 18 February. Animal Hospital and all extra activities are included in the entry price. Beat the queues at the gate and book tickets online at www.zsl.org. Photo credit: ZSL London Zoo

Create and Grow at Squire’s

There’s a real buzz going on at Squire’s Garden Centres this February Half Term. Keep your children as busy as a bee by taking them to Squire’s to paint a beautiful terracotta bee pot, which they can take home and use as a pen holder or plant pot, for just £4.50. Children can also take part in free activities at Squire’s, including a wildlife colouring competition with the chance to win a prize and a gardening treasure hunt where you follow a trail of questions around the garden centre. Everyone who completes the treasure hunt receives a sticker. This is the perfect excuse for parents to explore the wide range of quality plants and garden products and extensive selection of garden furniture, houseplants and gifts at Squire’s. Focused on customer excellence, highly qualified and experienced horticultural staff are always on hand to help with plant related questions. 12

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Ham House and Garden

There are a variety of different activities for the whole family to enjoy at Ham House this February Half Term. The Ground Floor and Below Stairs will be open daily from 12-4pm and families can take part in our trail to unlock Ham House’s secrets. Explore the house and gardens to find all of the locks. At each lock you will have to answer a question about the private lives of those who lived at Ham House 400 years ago. Each trail costs £2 each including a special prize. You can pick up a trail sheet at Visitor Reception. The trail is suitable for ages 5 up, any children under 5 can simply spot the locks.

Museum of Richmond

This February Half Term you can discover how the Victorians used the delightful art of decoupage to decorate their belongings. Using a mix of real and replica historical objects from the Museum’s handling collection, the Museum of Richmond’s workshops provide families with a hands-on experience where they can learn more about the history of the local area and develop new skills by having a go at arts and craft activities. From the Easter holidays onwards, the museum will be celebrating its new Archaeology exhibition by looking at art and crafts from pre-historic times through to the Vikings.

February half term: Ham Unlocked Sat 10th to Sun 18th February, 10am- 5pm Follow our trail with keys and locks this February half term and unlock Ham House's secrets in the house and garden. £2 per trail with prize. #nationaltrust

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

To find out more visit, www.museumofrichmond.com or email learning@museumofrichmond.com.

School Holiday Family Art and Craft Workshops

Touch real museum objects!

Get Creative!

The Bright Emporium

Kick off 2018 in style with creative, exciting and, most of all, fun workshops for all the family to enjoy at the Bright Emporium, St John’s Hill.

Discover Richmond’s history!

Visit www.museumofrichmond.com to find out more and book

The season of family-friendly workshops includes messy mornings every Saturday and Sunday where kids can get down and dirty with a huge variety of creative materials. Glitter, paint, glue, pom-poms and anything else you can raid from the art cupboard are at your disposal – all you need to bring is your imagination and an apron. Let the LEGO® do the talking and inspire some creative writing in Build a Story sessions and learn something new whilst making the everyday into something spectacular in Mega Maker sessions. Draw, Build and Play workshops bring the Bright Books to life with an array of materials including LEGO®.

Whatever the Weather!

Workshops are led by the museum’s Learning Officer,Vicky, who has over ten years of experience of working with families and has an Enhanced DBS check. Workshops are primarily aimed at children aged 5-11 years old. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times, and adults are encouraged to get stuck in too!

Be inspired to be creative by reading some of your favourite books in the original Emporium workshop, Storytime Sunday, and make a drama of all the books you’ve come to love in Cat and Hutch sessions. Intrigued? Find full listings on www.thebrightemporium.com.You can also book all these events and workshops on the Hoop app. Love the space? Hire it for your next party. At the Bright Emporium there is a workshop for everyone.

The Adventures of Toad

Free admission

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

m o Lin Gr d. R e e illus tr par o w n pro She r d u c ati o n co py r ig h t © E H r t i s B e d wi u t h p e r m is s i o n o f C

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

Share your experience boemuseum T: 020 3461 5545

www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

What’s On

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

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

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

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

Perfect for all ages, this roarsome February Half Term event is packed full of fun and adventure for the whole family. Check out the new interactive show How to be a Zoo Keeper LIVE!, enjoy a selection of your favourite rides, see over 1,000 animals and lots more. To buy tickets visit www.chessington.com

“

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

”

Dusty’s Puddle Jumping Championships, London Wetland Centre, Barnes, SW13 9WT

Take along your wellies and wet weather gear and have a splashing time! Use your imagination to create the biggest, most exciting splash. Throw some shapes in the air for extra style! Admission charges apply. For more information visit www.wwt.org.uk/ wetland-centres/london

Sun 11 Feb

Great Palace Quest, Hampton Hack and Whack, Southbank Court Palace, KT8 9AU Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 Go on a time-travelling voyage of 8XX discovery exploring Hampton Court Palace in a search of the Palace Quest code word. The quest will involve participating in puzzles, games, crafts and meeting characters from the past. For more information visit www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-courtpalace

Ham Unlocked, Ham House and Garden, Richmond, TW10 7RS

10am-5pm. Unlock the secrets of the seventeenth century residents at Ham House this February Half Term. Children can take part in the ‘Ham unlocked’ children’s trail and grownups can visit the mini exhibition in the house. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hamhouse-and-garden

Heavenly Hampton, Hampton Court Palace, KT8 9AU There will be live interpretations for all the family to enjoy. Discover the story of Katherine Parr’s secret romance and wedding to Thomas Seymour and then take part in activities for the family, running throughout the day. For more information visit www.hrp.org.uk/ hampton-court-palace

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 14

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

Tales for Rainy Days, Shakespeare’s Globe, SE1 9DT (Also 13, 15 and 17 Feb) Families can explore the world around The Tempest in workshops and storytelling sessions and enjoy taking part in activities inspired by myths and legends from around the world. For more information and to book visit www. shakespearesglobe.com

Supersaurs, Polka Theatre, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB 11am. An interactive introduction to Jay Jay Burridge’s modern day dinosaurs, told through augmented reality. Take along all the family to enjoy some Sunday morning fun and laughter. Ages 7+. For more information and to book visit www.polkatheatre.com

Surface Tensions, Pump House Gallery, Battersea Park, SW11 4NJ 12noon-4pm. Drop into this family workshop, accompanying Sriwhana Spong’s exhibition a hook but no fish, where you will you construct playable surfaces and experiment with ways of playing them through listening, looking and touching. For more information visit www.pumphousegallery.org.uk

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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

Education News

Exploration and Discovery

Get creative and enter the British Science Association’s annual poster competition, which challenges children from nursery to Year 9 to create posters on this year’s theme of exploration and discovery. Your students can make their poster about anything around the theme, from space travel and futuristic advances to iconic discoveries in science. The five best posters from your school can be entered into the UK-wide competition with the chance for students to win an array of prizes. Entrants will be judged within four age categories: Early Years (nursery and reception), Infant (Years 1-3), Junior (Years 4-6) and Senior (Years 7 to 9). Entries from youth groups and other organisations are also welcome in addition to schools. Entrants can be teams or individuals, however each school/ youth group can only enter up to a maximum of five entries. Entries must be 2D and submitted on one side of A4 or A3 paper only. Posters must include the entrant’s name (all names if a team) and age (all ages if a team), age category (of the oldest team member) as well as the school/youth group name and address. Once your students have completed their posters, check the competition details online at www.britishscienceweek. org before sending your top five entries to: Discovery and Exploration Poster Competition, British Science Association, Wellcome Wolfson Building, 165 Queen’s Gate, London, SW7 5HD. The competition closes on Friday 6 April at 6pm. A Primary Resource Pack for 2018 is now available to download from the British Science Week website. It’s full of ideas for teachers and parents to help encourage young people to think about everyday discoveries and how they affect their lives by exploring science in the world all around us.

“Education in Heaven”

Explore Learning shared with Primary Times one member’s experience over his 4 years at one of their maths and English tuition centres in Urmston. Here is Aysin’s journey. “Explore Learning is what I call education in heaven. The best place to learn new things and improve on things you already know. Similarly, school is the same but the only difference is Explore Learning helps you learn and perfect what you have learned in school. Follow us on Instagram - @primarytimesse

Education News

The staff are kind and do their job extremely well. They are honestly the most helpful people you can find. I would definitely recommend anyone to join because it is fantastic to come here and everyone who is still in school deserves to join too. Explore Learning to me is like a home. A home in which you are welcome. Each tutor is more helpful than the other. I feel that a part of me has attached here. This place always had a calm atmosphere and makes me happier than ever.” Explore Learning are 100% confident you’ll love it too, so why not see for yourself? Call 03301 243 801 to book your free trial at one of Explore Learning’s local centres. Alternatively, visit www. explorelearning.co.uk.

The Study Prep, Wimbledon

The Study Prep is holding its Open Morning on Saturday March 3, and welcomes prospective families to attend and learn more about this highly successful prep school for girls aged 4-11. Based on two beautiful sites near Wimbledon Common, and renowned for its creative ethos and success at 11+, the school celebrates its 125th anniversary this year. The Open Morning will be a chance to view both sites and to talk to the Headmistress and the teaching staff about all the school offers its girls. The historic Spencer House site for girls in Years 4-6 has recently been refurbished, and the new landscaped playground is the jewel in the crown. For more information and details of the Open Day visit www.thestudyprep.co.uk.

AGES 4-14

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PRIVATE TUITION CENTRE in the UK

More than just maths and English tuition

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96% of parents said their child’s confidence improved as a result of coming to Explore.

Independently proven results, ensuring children progress academically, socially and attitudinally.

BE EXAM READY Preparing your child to sit the 11 Plus, a local entrance exam, the SATs or their end of term tests.

A FEARLESS FUTURE

We develop a foundation of skills, supporting children of all abilities to succeed in school and beyond.

For more information visit

explorelearning.co.uk or call 033 0124 3801

FREE TRIAL SESSION !

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Awards 2016

Open Morning Saturday 3 March 2018 9.30 -12.00 Learn about our creative and nurturing ethos Meet our dedicated and passionate staff Explore our two wonderful sites Wilberforce House Camp Road SW19 4UN 020 8947 6969 www.thestudyprep.co.uk Registered Charity No. 271012

We welcome enquires about our scheme of assistance with fees for girls aged 7+.

Your nearest centres are in

Hampton, Merton, Nine Elms, North Cheam, Wallington and Wandsworth.

Preparatory School for girls aged four to eleven 29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

What’s On

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

February Mon 12 Feb

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

11am. Performance poet, children’s author and playwright Joseph Coelho reads from Luna Loves Library Day and explores why libraries are so brilliant with illustrator Fiona Lumbers. Ages 4-6. For more information and to book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 16

“

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

”

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

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

Exhilarating Entertaining Poems, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX 3pm. Leva Flamingo, her translator Richard O’Brien, Amina Jama and Dean Parkin present a poetry reading full of entertainment and excitement for 8-11 year olds. For more information and to book visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

River Residents, Orleans House Gallery, Twickenham, TW1 3DJ

2-4pm. Inspired by the residents of the River Thames, collaborate with your friends and family to create creatures, masks and lanterns. Ages 4+. For more information and to book visit www. richmond.gov.uk/holiday_activities

Kevin Graal, Various Locations

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

Mon 12 – Fri 16 Feb

The Adventures of Toad, Bank of England Museum, EC2R 8AH

10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm. The fantastic stories from The Wind in the Willows are brought to life by a costumed storyteller in these fun and engaging sessions. Free. For more information visit www.bankofengland. co.uk/museum

Create & Grow, Squires Garden Centre, Twickenham, TW2 5PA

10am-4pm. Paint a terracotta bee pot (charges apply). There will also be a free Wildlife Colouring Competition and a Gardening Treasure Hunt for you to take part in where you will receive a sticker and a chance to win a prize. For more information visit www. squiresgardencentres.co.uk

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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

Out of Scho

Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes

Learning music from an early age is a great extra skill for children to have, and can influence their academic performance as well as being a lot of fun. Group music classes are also great places for children to make new friends. Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes are swinging into Clapham and are offering a no obligation free trial class scheduled for Wednesday 24 January and 10% off first term’s fees at any of their classes mentioned in the advert. Funky Monkey teach in small groups, offering children the opportunity to learn how to play the electronic keyboard and read and write music, using a unique scheme which is engaging, fun-packed and simple to understand. Classes are held at the recently renovated Fresh Ground, just off the Northcote Road, SW11, where the smell of fresh coffee and muffins is the first thing that hits you. Classes run from 3.404.20pm for children aged 4 years and 4.20-5.20pm for 5-9 year olds. Funky Monkey provide all the equipment and there is an instrument rental scheme available. Booking is essential. For more information visit www.funkymonkey.info

Where’s Wally? Fun Run

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

A Whole New World this Easter

Discover a whole new world this Easter with Dramacube and climb aboard a magic carpet and journey to Agrabah for a magical musical theatre workshop production inspired by the famous story of Aladdin. Guided by a professional musical director, choreographer and director, students aged 7-14yrs will spend three days exploring

Richmond Adult Community College

ool Activities this classic tale, developing their own show through improvisation, script work, song and dance. Work towards a performance under the lights for friends and family to enjoy on the afternoon of day three. With so many great characters to play, including Princess Jasmine, The Sultan, The Genie and of course Aladdin, this workshop is ideal for students who love to act, sing and dance. Award winning youth production company Dramacube produce two workshop productions, two full scale musicals and a musical theatre concert each year, all performed at dedicated performance spaces, giving students a fully rounded theatrical experience. Rehearsal locations are Richmond & Kingston, Twickenham & Teddington and Hampton Hill & Sunbury. Easter holiday ‘Aladdin’ workshops will run from 4-6 and 11-13 April in Twickenham and Kingston. For full details about the events and to book your child’s place visit www.dramacubeproductions. co.uk, email contact@dramacube.co.uk or call 020 8408 0245.

If you’re looking for inspiration to keep the family entertained this Half Term, RHACC’s speciality programme of family courses will get the children out of the house and keep little hands busy. Learn alongside the young ones (age 7+) as you get creative with flowers, glass, pottery or printmaking. Alternatively if you prefer the kitchen to the art studio then RHACC’s cooking and baking department have a family workshop with Chinese dumplings on the menu. RHACC will be bringing the outdoors in with the Family Wildlife Drawing class and a real life owl promises to make this one to remember. This will be more than just a drawing class as experienced handlers will be on hand to give a short talk and answer questions as they introduce everyone to the feathered special guest. The College also specialises in women-only courses at its Hillcroft campus in Surbiton for those looking to return to learning, progress their education, or retrain for a new career. These day and residential courses are ideal for those female learners who prefer a female-only environment. For further information on the full range of courses at Richmond and Surbiton please go to www. rhacc.ac.uk or call 020 8891 5907.

AVAILABLE IN RICHMOND AND SURBITON

FAMILY FUN Hands on creative entertainment for the whole family

The Exchange Theatre, Twickenham / Tiffin Girls School, Kingston

Looking for inspiration to keep the children entertained this half term? Take a look at our creative family courses • Creative Glass • Family Cooking – Chinese dumplings • Wildlife Drawing • Flower Arranging • Pottery • Printmaking Easter holidays – Wildlife Drawing – miniature pigs

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

LEARN IT LOVE IT BOOK IT

rhacc.ac.uk/ familycourses 020 8891 5907

What’s On

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

February Grow your Own Greenhouse, Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD

11am-4.15pm. Get planting in the paddock (overflow car park) at Morden Hall Park this February Half Term to create your very own portable kitchen garden and minigreenhouse ready for spring. Ages 5+. For more information and to book visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ morden-hall-park

Tues 13 Feb

Great Escape Workshop, BFI Southbank, SE1 8XT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

present their respective new books Fantastically Great Women Who Changed the World and Young, Gifted and Black, in this specially curated event. Ages 8-12. To book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

Pirates in the Arrrrchives, The National Archives, Richmond, TW9 4DU 10.30am-12noon. Join in for some swashbuckling fun, with records about real-life pirates of the Caribbean. Take part in a pirate treasure hunt and create your own pirate hats, pirate faces and paper plate ships. Ages 3-5. For more information and to book visit www. nationalarchives.gov.uk

Family Cooking, Richmond and Hillcroft Adult Community College, TW9 2RE

(Also 15 Feb) 10.30am-12noon. A workshop for children and their parents/guardians to make dumplings for Chinese New Year.You will need to purchase the ingredients and take along an apron, tea towel and container/s to take the food home Ages 4-10. For more information and to book visit www.rhacc.ac.uk

In the Picture, Orleans House Gallery, Twickenham, TW1 3DJ

10am-12noon and 2-4pm. Work with artist Jess Meehan to produce your own piece of wearable art. Engulf yourself in your own ocean scene looking at the creatures and corals that inhabit it. Ages 4+. For more information and to book visit www. richmond.gov.uk/holiday_activities

Wildlife Drawing for Families, Richmond & Hillcroft Community College, Surbiton, KT6 6DF

11am-1pm. Wild Life Drawing is a drawing class with a difference. Instead of human life models, the subjects are real animals. Today’s theme is Owls. For more information and to book visit www.rhacc.ac.uk

Colourful Communications, Orleans House Gallery, Twickenham, TW1 3DJ

10am-12noon and 2-4pm. Experiment with painting techniques to create your own colour palette and explore how you can express yourself through colour. Ages 6+. For more information and to book visit www. richmond.gov.uk/holiday_activities

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

2pm. Alongside a host of special guests, author and illustrators, Kate Pankhurst and Andrea Pippins

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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Tues 13 – Wed 14 Feb Adventures in Archiving, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

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

Tues 13 – Fri 16 Feb

Victorian Decoupage, Museum of Richmond, TW9 1TP 10am-12noon. Discover more about the delightful craft of decoupage and create your own example to take home. For more information and to book visit www.museumofrichmond. com

Wed 14 Feb

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

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

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

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

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

Fossil Fun, Orleans House Gallery, Twickenham, TW1 3DJ

10am-3pm. Work with artist Dawn Smithers looking at what might lurk in the depths of the River Thames. Design your own ancient river creatures and use plaster to create their fossils. Ages 5+. For more information and to book visit www. richmond.gov.uk/holiday_activities

Painting Above, Creating Below, Orleans House Gallery, Twickenham, TW1 3DJ 10am-3pm. Explore what is above and below the waves with artist, Mark Stacey, using mixed media to create a watery masterpiece. Ages 7+. For more information and to book visit www.richmond.gov.uk/ holiday_activities

Model Box Making, Polka Theatre, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB

10.30am-3.30pm. Join a professional set designer and explore Polka’s collection of model boxes from past shows before making your very own. Ages 6-9. For more information and to book visit www.polkatheatre.com

Thurs 15 Feb

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

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

Badges, Buttons and ‘Behaving Badly’, The National Archives, Richmond, TW9 4DU 10.30am-12noon. Uncover the fascinating stories of women who were prepared to risk everything to win the vote and then become a creative campaigner by making your very own suffrage badges inspired by the archive’s records. For more information and to book visit www. nationalarchives.gov.uk

Sailing on the Thames, Creating Below, Orleans House Gallery, Twickenham, TW1 3DJ

10am-3pm. Go back in time to the 17th century with artist Elsa Fritsch. Make a giant map and your own boat to sail along the river Thames for this fantastic journey. Ages 5+. For more information and to book visit www. richmond.gov.uk/holiday_activities

Actors Bootcamp, Polka Theatre, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB

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

Below the Surface, Orleans House Gallery, Twickenham, TW1 3DJ

10am-3pm. Work with artist Caroline Areskog-Jones to explore mark making, prints and papercuts while looking at the fantastical aquatic creatures that reside in the sea. Ages 8+. For more information and to book visit www.richmond.gov.uk/ holiday_activities

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

Win Tickets to George’s Marvellous Medicine at Rose Theatre Kingston Most grandmothers are lovely, kind, helpful old ladies. George’s Grandmother likes to gobble up slugs and bugs and is always telling George what to do. But one day, when his parents leave him alone with the grizzly old grunion, George sets about creating a brand new medicine to cure her of her cruelty. Little does he know that his perilous potion will be the start of a rather marvellous adventure... This magnificent new production promises to be yet another hugely imaginative and entertaining stage adaptation, bursting with growing grannies, feathery farm animals and bags of frothbuggling family fun. Join George this Easter to see Roald Dahl’s treasured tale brought to phizz-whizzing life, from 28 March to 7 April. www.rosetheatrekingston.org. For your chance to win a family ticket (up to four people plus a programme) on Thursday 29 March at 5.30pm tell us which member of George’s family his potion is designed for. See below for details of how to enter.

Win Jungle Bunch Goodies and DVD

Competitions

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

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

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

D N A P W

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

Midas

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Explorer

Gold

• Kidnap • Sara

Tad

Bandits Parrot

• Jewel

• Adventure

I M K

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

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

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

What’s On

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

February Fri 16 Feb

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

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

Creative Glass for Families, Richmond and Hillcroft Adult Community College, TW9 2RE 10am-3pm. Through one main project students will learn various techniques including using crushed glass to create patterns, cutting glass and assembling. The work will then be fired. Ages 7-14. For more information and to book visit www. rhacc.ac.uk

Fantastic Fish, Orleans House Gallery, Twickenham, TW1 3DJ 10am-3pm. Join artist Mary Herbert and celebrate the diversity of life in our rivers and oceans. Create your own watery creatures using paint, textile and recycled materials. Ages 5+. For more information and to book visit www.richmond.gov.uk/ holiday_activities

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

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

Sat 17 Feb

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

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

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

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

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

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Draw and Explore, Orleans House Gallery, Twickenham, TW1 3DJ

10am-1pm. Join a free family art walk for ages 2-6. Free, but booking is essential. For more information and to book visit www.richmond.gov.uk

Sun 18 Feb

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

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

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

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

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

2pm. Debut authors Greg James and Chris Smith will create a brand new superhero story with lots of games, singing and audience participation. Musical accompaniment is provided by the super-talented Dave Cribb. Ages 7+. For more information and to book visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Chinese New Year, Various Locations

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

Mon 19 Feb–Sat 31 Mar Defend the Tower!, Tower of London, EC3N 4AB

11.30am, 1.30pm and 3.30pm. England’s greatest medieval fortress, is under attack from all sides! You must help the heroic guards defend the mighty castle against its most

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

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

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dangerous enemies from 200 years of medieval conflict. For more information visit www.hrp.org.uk/ tower-of-london

Wed 21 Feb

Print Making for Families, Richmond & Hillcroft Community College, Surbiton, KT6 6DF Join in this new course at Hillcroft to have a go at creating your own prints. This fun introductory course will enable you to explore Lino and Monoprinting and produce simple prints and images to take home. Ages 7-14. For more information and to book visit www.rhacc.ac.uk

Sat 24 Feb

Curator’s Tour, Museum of Richmond, TW9 1TP

10am-12noon and 2-3pm. Discover more about some of the Museum of Richmond’s objects as the Curator shares her favourite stories from the collection. Curator’s Tours are free. Meet at the Museum’s front desk. For more information visit www. museumofrichmond.com

Family Saturdays, Battersea Arts Centre, Lavender Hill, SW11 5TN

Join in on the final Sat of every month when families take over Battersea Arts Centre for a day of fun, food and free activities. There is something for everyone to get involved with and space for the whole family to chill out and relax. For more information visit www.bac. org.uk

Sat 24 Feb – Sat 24 Mar Saturday Pottery for Families, Richmond and Hillcroft Adult Community College, TW9 2RE

(Sat only) 10am-12.30pm. An opportunity to create with clay together. Clay can be shaped into anything.You and your child will be introduced to many possibilities through an exciting project. For more information and to book visit www. rhacc.ac.uk

Sun 25 Feb

Paddington 2 Funday, BFI Southbank, SE1 8XT

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

FUNharmonics Family Concert, Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX 12noon. The London Philharmonic Orchestra invites you to a supersized orchestral party celebrating the

best of young music-making. There will also be Free FUNharmonics activities: 10am–12 noon. For more information and to book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

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

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

Singing Objects, Pump House Gallery, Battersea Park, SW11 4NJ

12noon-4pm. In this playful workshop join Rebecca Glover to experiment with vocal mimicry of the landscape. Soundtracks recorded at the workshop will be uploaded and available to listen to online. Free. For more information visit www. pumphousegallery.org.uk

March Thurs 1 Mar

World Book Day, Nationwide

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

Sat 3 Mar

Meet the Cows, London Wetland Centre, Barnes, SW13 9WT 10-10.30am and 1.30-2pm. On this talk our warden will tell you more about the importance of our udderly amazing cows and what they do to look after our furry friends. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www.wwt.org.uk/ wetland-centres/london

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

Victorian Child Criminals, The National Archives, Richmond, TW9 4DU 10.30am-12noon. Find out what crimes children were convicted of, and the sentences they served. Create your own ‘Wanted’ poster and learn about the experiences of different child criminals. Ages 7-11. For more information and to book visit www.nationalarchives.gov.uk

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

(Also 17 and 31 Mar) 11.30am. Using the mighty LEGO® brick, create the landscapes, characters and plot

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

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What did Frosty call his cow? Eskimoo!

What do you call an old snowman? Water!

Copy the Picture and Colour it in

I V D G O F T G L S

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

Answers

Winter Word Search

Spot the Differences

lownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Winter Warmer

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

Katie

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

Spot the Eight Differences

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

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

Postcode: School:

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

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for February and March Sat 10 Mar

March - building up stories as you go. Ages 5-8. For more information and to book visit www.thebrightemporium. com

Sat 3 – Sun 4 Mar

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

Sun 4 Mar

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

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

Cut and Paste, Orleans House Gallery, Twickenham, TW1 3DJ 2-3.30pm. Be inspired by the Stables exhibition and create art with collage and a mix of materials in this Sunday Afternoon Art session. Ages 4+. No booking necessary. For more information visit www.richmond. gov.uk

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

Dad Day, Whittaker Ellis Suite, Old Town Hall, Richmond, TW9 1TP 10am-12noon. A programme of creative activities for Dads or male carers and their children from babies to 10 years. Have fun exploring the gallery, playing with clay, creating collages, making masks and much more. For more information call 020 8831 6000 or visit www.richmond. gov.uk

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

Sat 10 – Sun 11 Mar

Birds of Prey, London Wetland Centre, Barnes, SW13 9WT Meet a range of magnificent birds of prey such as owls, peregrines, and kestrels and learn more about them. Expert falconer Ben Long from the Falconry School will be on hand to answer any questions you may have. For more information visit www. wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/london

Sun 11 Mar

Harlequins Ladies v Richmond Ladies, The Stoop, Twickenham, TW2 7SX Go along with the family to watch world-class women’s rugby as the current league leaders, Harlequins Ladies, reignite an historic rivalry against Richmond Ladies. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.quins.co.uk

The Head of the River Race, Chiswick to Putney Bridge

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

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

Thurs 8 – Sun 11 Mar

Affordable Art Fair, Battersea Evolution, SW11 4NJ The fair will be bringing thousands of works by emerging talent alongside household names for parents to explore whilst workshops will be taking place across the weekend to keep the kids entertained. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.affordableartfair.com

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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

“

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

”

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

Sat 17 Mar – Sun 18 Nov

In the Shadows, National Army Museum, Chelsea, SW3 4HT

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

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

Ear Trumpets, Pump House Gallery, Battersea Park, SW11 4NJ

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

12noon-4pm. In this final family workshop accompanying Sriwhana Spong’s exhibition a hook but no fish, join Rebecca Glover and Fritha Jenkins making ear trumpets and listening with all your senses. Free. For more information visit www. pumphousegallery.org.uk

Sun 18 Mar

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

Fri 16 Mar

Sat 24 Mar

On St Patrick’s Day weekend, join in a fun and exciting evening of Legends Rugby, followed by live music to raise money for charity. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.quins.co.uk

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

England Legends v Irish Legends, The Stoop, Twickenham, TW2 7SX

Fri 16 – Sun 18 Mar

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

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

Sat 17 Mar

Curator’s Tour, Museum of Richmond, TW9 1TP

Draw and Explore, Orleans House Gallery, Twickenham, TW1 3DJ

10am-1pm. Join a free family art walk for ages 2-6. Free, but booking is essential. For more information and to book visit www.richmond.gov.uk

Sat 17 – Sun 18 Mar

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

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

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

Second World War Spies, The National Archives, Richmond, TW9 4DU

10.30am-12noon. Investigate the life and experiences of Second World War spy Karl Richter. Learn about secret messages, cunning disguises and design your own toolkit for subterfuge and adventure. Ages 7-11. For more information and to book visit www.nationalarchives.gov.uk

Boat Race Fun, St Mary’s Church Square, Putney Bridge Approach, SW15 1SN 12noon. Enjoy the University Boat Race in Putney with live music and dance with Wandsworth Radio. Women’s race will be at 4.30pm and the men’s at 5.30pm. For more information visit www. positivelyputney.co.uk

Our next copy deadline is

2 March 2018.

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

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All About YOU!

Oscar Ninh aged 7

Riyon Perera aged 8

Coakley, Amber Youssef competitions in our Winter/Christmas issue. Oliver Congratulations to the following people who won Bonnie Allen won Tangled and on won Ferdinand goodies. Imogen Warrington Mnari, Josephine Roberts, Leo Everard and Ella Clerks etition winners were comp go Ninja s.Lego mural ale won Cars photo photomurals and Stanley Jones and Benjamin Bleasd Bags y Good ds Recor World ess ns. Guinn Matthew Clarke, Oliver Coakley and Harry Macki If you would like to see , Charlie Doherty, Luna Woodbridge, were won by Hibah Swaleh Ahmed, Frankie White Stanley easer, ey-Cr Freakl your work displayed Chloe uire, Macq nn igh-A Kayle Jessica Salter, Kathleen D'Souza, ng Competition for the Drawi Annie the here then just send us a won 7 aged Ninh Oscar v. Owen and George Uzuno group. Well done to all our prize older our for it won drawing, poem, riddles, 8. aged Perera Riyon and group younger jokes or short story and page. this on rk artwo the enjoy and winners

we'll do our very best to include it. Send it to: Good Work Page Primary Times 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG

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

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Wed 28 Mar - Sat 7 Apr Box Office 020 8174 0090 Visit rosetheatrekingston.org World class theatre on your doorstep