SW London May 2017 Primary Times by Alison Watson

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IDE U NG O S AT’ H W

for families with primary aged children

in South West London

A play by Charles Way Based on the book by Mary Norton

16 Jun – 20 Aug www.polkatheatre.com

The Best Family Guide to What’s On May Half Term Edition • Issue 106 • 15 May - 2 July 2017

What’s On Your family diary for May, June and July

Ongoing Weekends and School Holidays

Art Activities, Ham House and Garden, Richmond, TW10 7RS Create a piece of art inspired by your visit to Ham in the below stairs rooms. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hamhouse-and-garden

Until 20 May

Saturday Pottery for Families, Richmond Art School, TW9 2RE (Sat only) 2-4.30pm. 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.racc.ac.uk

Until 21 May

Weekend Family Activities, London Wetland Centre, Barnes, SW13 9WT

(Selected dates) Enjoy a pond dipping session to see what mini-beasts are about and get creative with nature crafts. For more information visit www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/ london

Celebrity Dusty Duck Trail, London Wetland Centre, Barnes, SW13 9WT

Aardman studios designed Dusty Duck to celebrate WWT’s 70th anniversary. This Easter, follow a trail of six-foot-tall Celebrity Dusty Duck sculptures around the beautiful grounds at London Wetland Centre. Charges apply. For more information visit www.wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/london

Wandsworth Arts Festival, Various Locations

The annual two week festival includes 140 events, performances and workshops in all sorts of unusual spaces. More than 15,000 people are expected to be part of the festival with a mixture of free and ticketed events. For more information and to buy tickets visit www. wandsworthfringe.com

Until 17 Jun

Senses, Kingston Museum, Kingston-upon-Thames, KT1 2PS

Feel, see, hear and smell your way around this interactive exhibition to discover how our senses help us and how they sometimes trick us. Free admission. For more information visit www.kingston.gov.uk

Until 16 Jul

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

10.30am-12noon every other Sunday. A popular community event which

15 May - 2 July 17

allows children to interact, create and spend time with their favourite authors and illustrators, sharing the joy of storytelling. For more information and to book visit www. thebrightemporium.com

Until 21 Jul

Tutus for Tots, The Bright Emporium, Clapham, SW11 1SY

9.30am and 10.05am every Fri excl. 2 Jun. Baby Ballet classes provide a magical arrangement of activities. An array of different narrative settings, aided by the use of props, is used to enable the children to learn through play and explore through dance. Ages 2½+. For more information and to book visit www.thebrightemporium. com

Until 22 Jul

Mini Yoga, The Bright Emporium, Clapham, SW11 1SY

9am every Sat, (Excl. 27 May and 3 Jun). These classes are always based around a story which unfolds (much to the children’s delight!) and is acted out using Hatha yoga postures. Many of the activities support the Early Years foundation framework. Ages 2-8. For more information and to book visit www.thebrightemporium. com

Until 29 Jul

Messy Toddlers! and Messy Kids!, The Bright Emporium, Clapham, SW11 1SY

10.30-11am (under 4s) and 11.30am to 12noon (ages 4-8). Each week will cover a different theme, with little ones working on individual projects as well as working together on one big masterpiece which will be proudly displayed in the gallery afterwards. For more information and to book visit www.thebrightemporium.com

Until 20 Aug

Adventures in Moominland, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX

Climb into and get lost inside the eccentric world of Moominland as you explore the internationally renowned Moomin stories through the life of its author, Tove Jansson. Ages 7+. 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

“

Fri 19 – Sat 20 May

I saw your event in Primary Times.... Please mention you saw the event listed in Primary Times Until 3 Sep

”

The Art of the Brick, Doon Street Car Park, Lambeth, SE1 Created by legendary LEGO® artist Nathan Sawaya, this contemporary art exhibition uses nearly 2,000,000 bricks to create large-scale sculptures of the most enduring Super Heroes and Super Villains. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.aotbdc.co.uk

Until 30 Sep

Underbelly Festival, Southbank, SE1 8XX

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

Until 28 Oct

The Magic Garden, Hampton Court Palace, KT8 9AU 10am-5.30pm. Experience the legendary world of the Tudor tournament in this imaginative play garden setting. Discover something new around every twist and turn and explore a mysterious secret grotto. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.hrp.org.uk/ hampton-court-palace

May Fri 19 May

Inclusive Open Day, YMCA Hawker, Kingston, KT2 5BH

10am-6pm. Go along to the centre to try out activities both indoor and outdoor – with a fantastic Zorbing experience on the main field. For more information email Hayleyturner@ymcalsw.org

Museums at Night, Bank of England Museum, EC2R 8AH

5.30-9pm. Enjoy a variety of gallery talks and chat to the gold and banknote experts. Members of the Museum and Archive teams will be revealing some unique and unseen objects from the Bank’s collection which visitors can handle. For more information visit www.bankofengland. co.uk/museum

Museums at Night, Apsley House, W1J 7NT

6-9pm. Explore the resplendent rooms after dark with period music, and hear the tales of the house’s fascinating history brought to life. Book on 03703 331 181. For more information visit www.englishheritage.org.uk

Sat 20 May

Love West Dulwich Fair, Various Locations

10am-5pm. Activities will include market stalls, arts and crafts, maypole dancing, face painting, street food, fair rides, farm animals, live music, and in store activities. Taking place in Park Hall Road, Croxted Road and Rosendale Road. For more information visit www.dulwichfestival. co.uk

Beyond Sight, Kingston Museum, Kingston-uponThames, KT1 2PS

2-4pm. How do you feel the ridges of a shell, the sound of an elephant or the waves crashing on the shore? Join artist Tim Pond and explore the way art engages more senses than the eye. Book on 020 8547 5006. Free. For more information visit www. kingston.gov.uk

Big Bug Bonanza, Brockwell Park Community Greenhouses, Herne Hill, SE24 0PA 10.30am-12.30pm. Get up close and personal with creatures that creep, crawl, slither and slide. Play life-cycle games, investigate microhabitats, and finish off with some bug crafts. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www. brockwellgreenhouses.org.uk

Karachi Literature Festival London for Kids, Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX 11.45am. Take along your little ones for a day of songs and stories in partnership with Karachi Literature Festival. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

Family Activities, Tower Bridge Exhibition, SE1 2UP

10.30am-4pm. Join in some fun, hands on family activities at Tower Bridge. Admission charges apply. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.towerbridge.org.uk

Walk London, Various Locations

Over 40 fantastic free led walks take place around London during these Walking Weekends. For more information and to find a walk near you visit www.walklondon.org.uk

For lots more Roundabout ideas see page 10...

For thousands more ideas visit www.primarytimes.net

free

IDE GU ON AT’S WH

for families with primary aged children

Dear Readers

in South West London

Welcome to our May Half Term issue which covers from just before half term through to just before the beginning of the big summer break. With the weather changing May Half Term is the perfect The Best Family Guide to What’s On time to start venturing outside more and exploring. Have a look through the listings for lots of ideas on what to do and where to go. Many of the suggestions are free so do look carefully through them and mark them up. If you do attend anything please mention that you read about them in Primary Times! A play by Charles Way Based on the book by Mary Norton

16 Jun – 20 Aug www.polkatheatre.com

Contents

inside this issue....

May Half Term Edition • Issue 106 • 15 May - 2 July 2017

Andrew in the Primary Times office is getting married to Janine in June. We have been very excited in the office listening to all his wedding planning and wish him and Janine the very best of luck for a long and very happy life together. Are you holding a summer fair at school or any events that we could help you publicise in our free listings? If so, send the details in plenty of time to listings@primarytimes.biz and we will do our very best to include them in the next magazine.

Primary Times is now printed on recycled text paper throughout, from 100% postconsumer waste, made in Europe by a paper mill that is certified and supports responsible forestry. Recycle 0% d 10

The Primary Times Team: Publishing Editor: Peter Watson Sales: Andrew Langridge, Clarry Frewin, Sarah Jane Chapple & Gill Pearce Listings: Hayley Hughes & Miriam Theobald Editorial: Anna Stringer Production: Alison Watson Office Manager: Chris Blower Administrators: Claire Wood & Tina Love Proof Reader: Catherine Draisey Social Media: Rachel Benson

Open Air Theatre...............9 Fun Days Out.................... 11 this Holiday

Education......................... 17

Peter and the Primary Times team

E c ola b el P E

Family Theatre Guide........6

Competitions.................... 15

Have a fun and relaxing half term. We’ll be in schools again the week beginning 4 July. SC

News..................................4

Look out for our next issue published in time for the bumper Summer Holidays from 4 July 2017

Camps, Courses..............20 and Classes Good Work Page.............23

Primary Times in South West London 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG Tel: 020 8318 0400 Email: office@primarytimes.biz Website: www.primarytimes.net Twitter: @PT_LondonSandE

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.

We can provide you with a great opportunity to help transform children’s lives  You don’t have to be married  You don’t need to be employed  You don’t need a big house  You do need a spare room and space in your life to help a vulnerable child to achieve As a Chrysalis Care foster carer you will receive:  24-hour professional support  Excellent remuneration  Job satisfaction  Comprehensive training  Access to a range of children’s services We are also looking for specialist foster carers who can provide a home to teenagers, a parent and child, children with disabilities and carers who are interested in remand fostering.

If you are considering becoming a foster carer, or would like to find out more about us,

please call: 020-8298 2800 or visit our website: www.chrysaliscarefostering.org 15 May - 2 July 17

News

Emoji Based Communication Tools

Social media and technology has changed the way children and young people communicate. The average young person spends one third of their lives on mobile phones, making it hard to initiate a proper conversation. With a staggering 850,000 children aged between 5 and 16 being diagnosed with mental health problems, it’s clear that there is a real need for young people to be able to communicate and get help with their feelings.Youth worker and mental health professional Natasha Rego has developed a simple yet innovative product to help young people get their message across in a way that feels safe and comfortable.

A Vet in China One of the vets from Richmond Vets4Pets, Roger Bralow has recently returned from China where he was working with the charity Animals Asia. This is an amazing animal charity based in China and Vietnam. Primary Times spoke to Roger and asked him a few questions about his experiences.

What animals did you work with? I had the opportunity to work mainly with bears that had been rescued, but I also went to help teach kids in a primary school about dogs.

I assume you have done that before. Our team of vets from Vets4Pets in Richmond really enjoy doing this locally. But in China, the contrast was amazing. Dogs are such a big part of our society over here. I have two kids in Primary school and we regularly see parents walking their dogs with the kids on the school run.

Chateez are attractive, thought provoking picture cards that use emojis to encourage dialogue, enabling children and young people to express themselves clearly and confidently. Entire conversations can be held using these simple yet effective images. With the help of the clear pictures, children in groups who struggle to communicate effectively can express themselves more confidently and meaningfully, allowing deeper conversations to be had about problems and feelings. Chateez come in both flashcard and pocket-size form. There are also flashcards with speech bubbles on to encourage deeper, more thoughtful communication. A page of helpful hints and tips on how to use the cards is also included. Chateez is a leader in its field, using modern and imaginative methods to develop communication with young people. For more information about Chateez, please visit www.chateez.co.uk.

What was the biggest difference at the school? There were ten year old kids there that got to touch a dog for the first time. The first time! That was astounding to watch. I got to watch the faces of these kids change from fear to curiosity to confidence and eventually we could just see a nose poking through a sea of happy children.

Tell us more about the bears. They were mainly black bears known as ‘Moon Bears’ because of the white crescent on their chests. These bears had been rescued from bile-farms and brought to a sanctuary where they were cared for. They are beautiful and majestic animals. There is a bittersweet tale here of animals that had been treated so badly, but were then rescued. The bears in Chengdu play in gigantic enclosures. They climb trees. They laze about in the sunshine. They lie on hammocks and tire swings. This is not their natural habitat, but they are able to behave like bears. It was very special even just watching them, but being able to help even just a few made me happy to be a vet. We could tell just from talking to him that Roger and his whole family had a wonderful time in China as well as doing some really valuable work. Find out more about the work of Richmond Vets4Pets at www.vets4pets.com/richmond

HS TRC A M BOIOG E I TBALL PA T BER

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A BIRTHDAY TO REMEM

off to lous footie it’s of fast fun, fabu before el fu After an hour re to food & drinks rty pa r fo ne t action! the Party Zo h for more grea on to the pitc heading back

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£25 CALL NOW & QUOTE WIM15PT

CALL 020 8949 1122

Email: wimbledon@goalsfootball.co.uk | Visit: goalsfootball.co.uk

Goals Wimbledon, Beverley Way, New Malden, Surrey KT3 4PH

15 May - 2 July 17

For thousands more ideas visit www.primarytimes.net

News

Party on Down to Goals Wimbledon Get a £25 discount on the Take the Lot Package Kid’s Party at Goals at a final price of £195 when you quote Primary Times at Goals Wimbledon. The party includes a FA coach for the duration, full catering, birthday cake, goody bags and medals for all the children and a team photo of all the kids on the day. Goals Wimbledon are now also offering free functions on a Friday at Goals Wimbledon. Take your friends and loved ones down to Goals’ 150-capacity, spacious room and enjoy your party there. They have new amazing drink deals to help your night be extra special. Call 020 8949 1122 (selecting option 2), for any enquiries and get on down there to party.

Chrysalis Care - 20 Years and Counting! At Chrysalis Care, the needs and experiences of the children and young people they care for are a priority. Chrysalis Care want them to have a memorably positive childhood, doing fun and edifying activities within safe and nurturing home environments. Cue potential foster carers. Without a diverse range of foster carers of all backgrounds, persuasions and family compositions, Chrysalis Care cannot meet their priority. They have twenty years as an Independent Fostering Agency, providing high quality care to children from all backgrounds including those with disabilities, young people on remand, and parent and child placements. Do you have a spare room, a zest for life and room in your life to help Chrysalis Care to achieve another twenty years of outstanding outcomes for children and young people? Yes? Call 020 8298 2800 email info@ chrysaliscare.org, visit www.chrysaliscarefostering.org or engage with Chrysalis Care on twitter or Facebook.

Sofia the First Season Four of Sofia the First launches in June on Disney Junior. The new season will find Sofia taking on a bigger role as a protector of her kingdom and will also have her visiting a new enchanted world called “The Mystic Isles”. New characters for season four include an enthusiastic unicorn called Skye, a Crystalmaster named Prisma and two gnomes, Malachite and Fig as well as a magical human/hawk character named Vega. Watch out too for Christa, a crystal fairy and two dragons appropriately named Cinder and Sizzle.

Vets4Pets Richmond

Everything you need to keep your pet healthy and happy • Experienced team of veterinary surgeons & nurses • Well equipped surgery with operating theatre, in-house laboratory and digital x-ray • Vet consultations available 7 days a week • Convenient location with plenty of free parking

Ask us about our range of Health Plans for your pet Roger Bralow BVSc MRCVS CertSAS CertSAP Roger Irish BSc(Hons)Pharm MVB MRCVS Owners & Veterinary Surgeons

Book an appointment with us today Vets4Pets Richmond Inside Pets at Home, 86 Manor Road, Richmond, Surrey, TW9 1YB Call: 020 8392 5910 or visit: vets4pets.com/richmond Opening times: 9am - 8pm Mon - Fri, 9am - 6pm Sat, 10am - 4pm Sun

15 May - 2 July 17

Battersea Arts Centre’s Open-air Theatre

Family theatre guide Horrible Histories at Hampton Court

This May Half Term, from 27 May to 3 June, join Historic Royal Palaces at Hampton Court Palace, as gruesome characters and terrible tales are brought to life in Horrible Histories’ The Best of Barmy Britain. From battling Boudicca to highwayman Dick Turpin and the putrid plague, dive into the most ghastly parts of British history in the palatial gardens of Henry VIII’s former home. The Best of Barmy Britain promises to uncover centuries of bloody history - from horrible Henry and his wives to the ‘quirky Queen Vicky’- perfect for those with a thirst for all things awful and amusing. With stories as barmy as these, it’s no wonder heads are dropping off! The show runs for one hour and is an outdoor performance in the palace gardens, with guests encouraged to bring a blanket and food for the ultimate historical picnic in the grounds of Henry VIII’s pleasure palace. Booking is advisable. See the advert on this page for prices and booking details.

BIRMINGHAM STAGE COMPANY PRESENTS

Transport your family to Victorian London this July, as Little Bulb Theatre’s raucous summer show returns to Battersea Arts Centre’s open-air Courtyard Theatre. Funny, warm-hearted and full of live music and mischief, Extravaganza Macabre tells the tale of two lovers separated by a freak storm. When their fate falls into the clutches of a scheming villain, will they ever be reunited? With a whirlwind of plot twists, trap doors and lashings of audience interaction, it promises to delight everyone ages 8 and up. Set under the open sky in London’s most intimate Courtyard Theatre, there are both seated and standing tickets available, but you will always be close to the action. A festive atmosphere will surround the show with strawberries, ice-cream and picnic boxes on offer, washed down with a glass of Pimms (for the grown-ups). Make the most of a Saturday afternoon or watch on a summer’s evening as the sun goes down. Extravaganza Macabre runs from 4 to 29 July at Battersea Arts Centre at 7.30pm plus 2.30pm matinees on Saturdays. Tickets cost £10 - £25 and the show is suitable for ages 8+. For more information, visit www.bac.org.uk. Photo credit: Alex Brenner

Summer at the Polka

Polka Theatre is packed with shows and activities to entertain and inspire throughout the spring and summer months. From 16 June to 20 August, a fun-packed new staging of The Borrowers bursts

bac.org.uk

27 MAY – 3 JUNE TICKETS: ADULTS £12, CHILD £7, UNDER 5S FREE BOX OFFICE 0844 482 7777 BOOK NOW AT HRP.ORG.UK/HORRIBLEHISTORIES HORRIBLE HISTORIES ® IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF SCHOLASTIC INC. AND IS USED UNDER AUTHORISATION.BASED ON THE BESTSELLING BOOKS BY TERRY DEARY AND ILLUSTRATED BY MARTIN BROWN © ALL RIGHTS RESERVES. ILLUSTRATION © MARTIN BROWN

15 May - 2 July 17

For thousands more ideas visit www.primarytimes.net

Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall

Why toddle when you can dance? It’s time to get heads, shoulders, knees and toes bopping along to lashings of swing, pop, rock, latin and more! Celebrating 5 years of baby boogieing on London’s Southbank, join resident dj-mumma, Monski Mouse and her Dancers for 50 minutes bopping family fun in the Spiegeltent at Underbelly Festival. This international hit, early childhood event lets parents and under-fives loose on the dance floor in this friendliest of discos. Selling out shows around the world,

find out why Monski Mouse is a hit with the under 5s and their parents/carers. All summer long, it’s time to 1, 2, 3 discooooo! When Primary Times reviewed the show at the Edinburgh Festival, we said ‘In minutes, there wasn’t a mummy, daddy, baby, toddler or child in the house that wasn’t busting some moves….We had a (glitter) ball’. Suitable for 0-5 years on selected Sundays from 7 May - 24 September, 3pm, Monday 29 May, 1pm. Book at www. underbellyfestival.com or call 08445 458 252.

Adventures in Wonderland

Les Petits Theatre Company are inviting you to fall down the rabbit hole once more and join them for the magical Adventures in Wonderland at The Vaults, Waterloo. Alice is missing in Wonderland and it’s up to you to find her. On entering Wonderland whether you ‘Eat Me’ or ‘Drink Me’ will determine your unique path. Tumble with the Tweedle twins, follow the White Rabbit and take tea with the Hatter at the Maddest Tea Party of all! But be careful not to lose your heads if the Queen catches you taking her tarts. If you have already met Lewis Carroll’s most beloved characters, the Mad Hatter has a few more surprises under his hat. And for all those who have yet to experience Wonderland, don’t miss out on this unique and unforgettable 60 minute immersive adventure! Adventures in Wonderland is at The Vaults, Waterloo until 3 September. Visit www.thevaults.london/adventures-inwonderland for more information and to book tickets.

Family Theatre

onto the Main Stage for ages 5–11 with dazzling puppetry, original music, stunning design and plenty of suspense. From 7 July in the Adventure Theatre there is the perfect introduction to live music and theatre for ages 2–5 as we follow the extraordinary musical journey of an egg through different sensory worlds, each with a mesmerising blend of sights and sounds. Or why not head to Polka over Half Term for the play Farm Boy, Michael Morpurgo’s epic sequel to War Horse? As always Polka also has a great selection of workshops, courses and summer schools for children up to the age of 14. Find out more and book tickets at www.polkatheatre.com

HAVE YOU BEEN TO WONDERLAND? Les Petits and ebp with Creature of London

The immersive theatrical show for kids 5-10

16 Jun – 20 Aug Ages

5 – 11

A play by Charles Way Based on the book by Mary Norton

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

MAY-SEPTEMBER ONLY

Alice-underground.com The Vaults, Waterloo #AliceUnderground “One of the best children’s shows for some time” THE STAGE

15 May - 2 July 17

Family Theatre

31 May – 4 Jun

Farm Boy

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Beneath the rust and dust of an old green tractor lies a moving story that brings together different generations and marks the change from the old world to the new. Ages 6-11.

This timeless classic written by author/illustrator Eric Carle makes its way off the page and onto the stage. Ages 2+.

17 Jun

2 – 4 Jun

Ignition Dance Festival

Goldilocks

Family theatre guide

Expect hurdy-gurdy music, naughty goblins, porridge, and sing-a-long fun. Ages 4-8.

Battersea Arts Centre SW11

16 Jun – 20 Aug

The community dance show will be a high octane event, sure to get everyone moving, featuring the brightest and best local dance talent.

The Borrowers

23 – 25 Jun

Box Office: 020 7223 2223 4 – 29 Jul

Extravaganza Macabre

Witness the woe, howl at the horror and gasp at the gallantry in a tale of unbearably high stakes, unspeakable moral lows and double lashings of devilish over-the-toppery. Ages 8+.

Colour House Theatre, Merton Abbey Mills Box Office: 020 8542 5511 Until 25 Jul

Sleeping Beauty

Can a handsome Prince save the day and finally wake the Sleeping Beauty? Find out in this enchanting musical for ages 3-103.

Hammond Theatre Hampton Box Office: www. thehammondtheatre.co.uk 2 Jul

Singing Hands Summer Spectacular

Join Suzanne and Tracy on a magical, musical journey around the world. Experience their unique, inclusive approach to multisensory music-making and Makaton signing.

Hampton Court Palace East Molesey Box Office: www.hrp.org.uk/ hampton-court-palace 27 May – 3 Jun

The Best of Barmy Britain Find out whether Parliament survived gunpowder Guy, and what made Dick Turpin so dastardly, as the popular Horrible Histories show comes to the gardens of Hampton Court Palace.

New Wimbledon SW19 Box Office: www.atgtickets. com/wimbledon 3 – 4 Jun

Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 8

Join Ben & Holly, and their friends on this exciting, enchanting and magical musical adventure packed full of games, songs and laughter.

Orange Tree Richmond Box Office: 020 8940 3633 10 Jun

King Lear

Enjoy 24 – 25 Jun the show! Rapunzel and the And don’t Tower of Doom forget to say This traditional tale goes back to its roots you saw it in with plenty of body, Primary volume and loads of Times! highlights. Ages 4-8.

Warring brothers, wicked sisters and powerless fathers discover too late that love can’t be measured. Shakespeare’s greatest tragedy abridged for a younger audience. Ages 5+.

Polka Theatre, Wimbledon, SW19 Box Office: 020 8543 4888 Until 28 May

Under the Rainbow

Inspired by the experiences of refugees, this new Polka production uses evocative music, puppetry and a transformative set to gently tell the story of a woman’s travels across land and sea. Ages 3-6.

17 – 21 May

There and Back Again

The ultimate source of myths and legends comes to life on stage in a lively retelling of Homer’s The Odyssey. Ages 5-11.

27 May

Spin

A fun, interactive performance with incredible rappers, poets and storytellers, each with their own distinct style to send you spiralling into a poetry revolution. Ages 6+.

31 May – 1 Jun

The Girl and the Giraffe

Giraffe isn’t very well and so Girl tries everything she can to make him feel better, but she has to learn that sometimes we need a different kind of plaster when we’re sad. Ages 3-6.

15 May - 2 July 17

This timeless classic bursts onto Polka’s Main Stage this summer with dazzling puppetry, original music, stunning design and plenty of suspense. Ages 5-11.

8 – 9 Jul

Comedy Club 4 Kids

See some of the best standups and sketch acts from the comedy circuit to do their thing for an audience of children and their families. Ages 6+.

Richmond Theatre Box Office: 08448 717 651 2 – 4 Jun

The Tiger Who Came to Tea

The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger! Ages 3+.

7 Jun

Goldilocks & the Three Bears

Bringing this classic children’s story to life, Goldilocks & the Three Bears is the perfect opportunity for your little ones to enjoy live ballet, music and theatre for the first time.

Rose Kingston Box Office: 020 8174 0090 17 – 21 May

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt

Michael Rosen’s awardwinning book is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s funfilled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Ages 3+.

The Scarecrows’ Wedding This truly heart-warming adaptation of Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler’s new bestselling book is bursting at the seams with Scamp Theatre’s inimitable style and promises wit, drama, and wedding bells.

St John’s Smith Sq, SW1 Box Office: 020 7127 9114 16 Jun

The Pied Piper of Hamelin The annual Bach Choir Outreach Concert featuring primary school children from central London schools singing alongside The Bach Choir.

TARA Arts Earlsfield Box Office: 020 8333 4457 2 – 3 Jun

Tales of Birbal

Step into the enchanting world of the Moghul King Akbar and his witty advisor, the legendary Birbal. Timeless and treasured fables from the Indian subcontinent. Ages 6+.

Underbelly Festival, Southbank Box Office: www. underbellyfestival.com Until 24 Sep

Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall

Celebrating 5 years of baby boogieing on London’s Southbank, join our resident djmumma, Monski Mouse and her Dancers for 50 minutes bopping family fun. Ages 0-5.

The Vaults, Waterloo Box Office: 08442 481 125 Until 3 Sep

Adventures in Wonderland

In this interactive experience, you’ll get to tumble with the Tweedle twins, follow the White Rabbit and take tea with the Hatter at the Maddest Tea Party of all. Ages 5-10.

Date

27 May-3 Jun 17 Jun 25 Jun 25 Jun 2 Jul 4 Jul 4-29 Jul 7 Jul 9 Jul 9 Jul 9 Jul 9 Jul 10 Jul 14 July 14 Jul 19 Jul 21-29 July 3 Aug 3 Aug-3 Sep 5-8 Aug 8 Aug 9 Aug 9-10 Aug 10 Aug 18 Aug 20 Aug 20 Aug 20 Aug 24 Aug 28 Aug

O PR

TR pm OU . 30 O IR’S 6 O D | H C ACH 017 LON N 2 M THE B O R F E N , E R D N L H RE With CHI 6T JU OH

Family Theatre

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The Pied Piper of Hamelin Join The Bach Choir and children from its Outreach Project at St Johns Smith Square at 6.30pm on 16 June as they perform the world premiere of The Pied Piper of Hamelin by composer and competition winner, Ian Assersohn. The spectacular premiere performance will also include a fantastic programme of animal-themed songs and music, which will be brought to you by school children from within the Tri-borough Music Hub area. Hear great music, be inspired and most of all - have fun! Ticket prices are Adults £10, Children/Students £3.You can buy a family ticket for up to three family members (including at least one child) for £15. For more information or to buy tickets, call 020 7127 9114 or visit www.thebachchoir.org.uk/ concerts.

FRIDAY 1 QUA ERS LL ITH S M S S ASS D HI ’ N ST JOH AN I I | R E AV COMPOS R|D O T C U COND

#TBCoutreach

TICKETS | £10 | Students £5 Family ticket: £15 for 3 people (including at least 1 child) 020 7127 9114 | thebachchoir.org.uk/concerts

Summer Outdoor Theatre in London

Production

Best of Barmy Britain The Comedy of Errors Romeo & Juliet The Emperor’s New Clothes A Midsummer Faery Den Hamlet Extravaganza Macabre (8+) The Comedy of Errors A Midsummer Faery Den The Wind in the Willows Merry Wives of Windsor The Comedy of Errors Merry Wives of Windsor Hamlet The Comedy of Errors Hamlet Macbeth A Midsummer Night’s Dream Hansel Gretel The Jungle Book (4+) Hamlet The Comedy of Errors Pride and Prejudice The Emperor’s New Clothes The Comedy of Errors The Comedy of Errors Pride and Prejudice The Comedy of Errors Pride and Prejudice Billionaire Boy (7+)

Location

Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, KT8 9AU Fulham Palace, Bishops Avenue, SW6 6EA Valentines Mansion & Garden, Ilford, IG1 4XA Fulham Palace, Bishops Avenue, SW6 6EA Forster Memorial Park, Longhill Rd, Catford, SE6 St George’s Garrison Church, Woolwich, SE18 6XJ Battersea Arts Centre, Lavender Hill, SW11 5TN The Temple, Wanstead Park, Epping Forest, E11 2LT Folkestone Gardens, Trundleys Rd, Deptford, SE8 5JE The Temple, Wanstead Park, Epping Forest, E11 2LT The Rookery, Streatham Common, SW16 3BX Ham House, Richmond, TW10 7RS The Oval Tavern, 131 Oval Rd, Croydon CR0 6BR St Paul’s Church, Clapham, SW4 0DR The Temple, Wanstead Park, Epping Forest, E11 2LT Severndroog Castle, Greenwich, SE18 3RT St Paul’s Church, Covent Garden, WC2E 9ED Hall Place and Gardens, Bexley, DA5 1PQ St Paul’s Church, Covent Garden, WC2E 9ED The Rose Garden, Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD CLF Art Café, Peckham, SE15 4ST Dolphin Square Gardens, SW1V 3ND Dean’s Yard, Westminster Abbey, SW1P 3PA The Temple, Wanstead Park, Epping Forest, E11 2LT Morden Hall Park, London, SM4 5JD Eltham Palace, Court Yard, SE9 5QE The Temple, Wanstead Park, Epping Forest, E11 2LT Eltham Palace, London , SE9 Fulham Palace, Bishops Avenue, SW6 6EA St George’s Garrison Church, Woolwich, SE18 6XJ

Box office/Website

www.birminghamstage.com www.tlcm.co.uk www.oddsocks.co.uk www.illyria.co.uk www.teatrovivo.co.uk www.changeling-theatre.com www.bac.org.uk/020 7223 2223 020 7332 1911 www.teatrovivo.co.uk 020 7332 1911 020 8764 8656 www.tlcm.co.uk 020 8686 6023 www.changeling-theatre.com www.illyria.co.uk www.changeling-theatre.com www.iristheatre.com www.thepantaloons.co.uk www.iristheatre.com www.sixteenfeet.co.uk www.changeling-theatre.com www.illyria.co.uk www.illyria.co.uk www.illyria.co.uk www.tlcm.co.uk www.tlcm.co.uk www.illyria.co.uk www.tlcm.co.uk www.illyria.co.uk www.glypt.co.uk

15 May - 2 July 17

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary across May, June and July

May

Sat 27 May

Sat 20 May – Sun 4 Jun Battersea Power Station Storybox, Grosvenor Arch, SW8 4NU

Watch stories told by other local residents, and record your own memories of the power station so they can be added to an archive of local history, and become part of a film which will be shared later on in the year. Part of the Chelsea Fringe. For more information visit www. chelseafringe.com

Sun 21 May

Dulwich Park Fair, SE21 7BQ

12noon-5pm. The stage by the café will feature local musicians, brass bands, choirs and dance acts of all ages. There will be a great variety of food from roast hog to Argentinian steaks to fresh crepes, interesting craft and charity stalls and a chance to sample local beers, wines and cider. For more information visit www.dulwichfestival.co.uk

The Magic Lantern, Dulwich Picture Gallery, SE21 7AD 2.30pm and 3.10pm. Explore the stories behind the permanent collection and temporary exhibitions in interactive sessions with storyteller Fiona Alderton. Taking place in the Gallery Mausoleum. Ages 3+. Buy your ticket on the day. For more information visit www. dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk

Pollinator Party!, Tooting Community Garden, SW16 1RN 12noon-4pm. Join in to launch the Pollinator Paths Wandsworth project, explore permaculture artist Lola Godoy’s ‘Bee a Pollinator’ artwork and geodesic dome and celebrate the garden’s 6th birthday with cake, campfire tea and party games for all ages. For more information visit www.chelseafringe.com

Drawing a Crowd!, The National Gallery, WC2N 5DN 11am-12.30pm and 2-3.30pm. Take part in a collaborative drawing adventure and invite characters to step out of the paintings and be drawn into the crowd. Places are limited and allocated on arrival. Ages 5-11. For more information visit www.nationalgallery.org.uk

Tues 23 May

Sensory Landscapes, Kingston Museum, Kingston-uponThames, KT1 2PS 2-4pm. A sensory session on the landscape of the Borough, suitable for visitors with visual impairment, all welcome. Book on 020 8547 5006. Free. For more information visit www.kingston.gov.uk

15 May - 2 July 17

Discover, Transform and get Morris Home!, The Bright Emporium, Clapham, SW11 1SY

1.30-3pm. Based on the fabulous book ‘Mrs Mole I’m Home!’ by Jarvis, this workshop brings together storytelling, craft and some drama- a perfect Half Term mix. Ages 3-7. For more information and to book visit www. thebrightemporium.com

Pop up Pop and Classical Music, Various Locations

10am Woolwich Tesco, 12noon Woolwich Royal Arsenal and 2pm Woolwich Library. Classical cellist, composer, vocalist and loop artist Anna Scott brings her experimental approach to live performance to surprising locations in the borough. Free. For more information visit www. glypt.co.uk

Bat Walk, Sydenham Wells Park, SE26

8.30pm. Join in a guided bat walk with London Wildlife Trust. Meet by the duck pond accessed via the Longton Avenue gate. For more information call 020 7252 9186 or visit www. wildlondon.org.uk

Make History Workshops, Kensington Palace, W8 4PX

“

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

”

Time Explorers Station, Kensington Palace, W8 4PX

11am-4pm. Explore the palace and discover its stories using the palace’s themed activity bags, games, trails and ‘make and take’ activities aimed at ages 0-13, all available to collect from the palace’s Time Explorer Station. For more information visit www.hrp. org.uk/kensington-palace

Sat 27 May – Sun 4 Jun

50 Things to Do Before You’re 11¾ Launch, Osterley Park and House, Isleworth, TW7 4RB 10am-5pm. From No. 1 climb a tree, to No. 31 hunt for bugs, see what adventures can be had at Osterley. Simply collect your 50 things map and collect stickers as you complete each activity. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley-parkand-house

Feria de Londres, Potters Fields Park, SE1 2AA

11.30am, 12.45pm and 2.30pm. Be inspired by a new palace story each month, and make a piece of the past by taking part in a range of exciting activities, from gardening and painting to chocolate making. For more information visit www.hrp.org.uk/ kensington-palace

A unique and free event that invites Londoners and tourists alike to experience first-hand the warmth, vitality and excitement of some of Spain’s most famous celebrations. There will be children’s activities including face painting, hair styling, art and dancing. For more information visit www.feriadelondres.com

Quiet Morning, The Queen’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace, SW1A 1AA

May Half Term, Ham House and Garden, Richmond, TW10 7RS

9-10.30am. Join in this inclusive morning, when the Gallery is quieter and families have full access to the exhibitions and displays. Designed for children with special educational needs. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.royalcollection. org.uk

Family Gamelan Taster Session Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

(Also 31 May) Take along your family and friends to play the Javanese gamelan percussion orchestra. No previous musical experience is necessary, just a willingness to sit on the floor, take off your shoes and have fun. 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

10am-5pm. Pick up a nature-themed trail at Visitor Reception and go on a hunt for animal tracks or create some wild art. Why not join in for a pick it, eat it, grow it workshop (Mon-Fri) or play some outdoor games. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hamhouse-and-garden

Grass Animal Zoo, London Wetland Centre, Barnes, SW13 9WT Visit the Grass Animal Zoo this May Half Term. The display includes a bear and giraffe, a hippo and a camel. Discover which of the eight animals live in wetlands and which of them can go for days without water. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www.wwt.org.uk/ wetland-centres/london

London Tree Week, Various Locations Go along and celebrate London’s trees and woodlands with a week of special events. For more information and to view the full programme visit www.london.gov.uk

Sun 28 May

Drawing with Cyanotypes, Dulwich Picture Gallery, SE21 7AD

2-4pm. Explore new photography and drawing techniques. Create a portrait of your family as a ‘negative’ image and then print it into a ‘positive’ image. Taking place in the Sackler Centre. Ages 3+. Buy your ticket on the day. For more information visit www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk

A Puppet Show for Families, Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

12noon and 2.30pm. Join Puppet characters from Lahore’s famous Rafi Peer Theatre Workshop, as they tell stories and jokes, sing songs and dance with their new London friends. Ages 4-10. For more information visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Sun 28 – Mon 29 May

Tales of Birbal, Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

Mashi Theatre’s travelling storytellers stop by to share the enchanting Tales of Birbal, ancient stories of adventure and problem-solving. For more information and to book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

Mon 29 May

Love Your Zoo Week, Battersea Park Children’s Zoo, SW11 4NJ Help the keepers make enrichment for meerkats at 2.15pm. In the morning you will get the chance to make an animal badge between 11am-12.30pm and listen to an animal story at 11.45am. For more information visit www. batterseaparkzoo.co.uk

The Wombles Picnic, Waterstones, Wimbledon, SW19 1RQ

11.30am. Join in a wonderful Wombles picnic. Tasty treats, fun activities and a special reading from Elisabeth Beresford’s classic tale of adventure. Book your free place on 020 3544 6720. For more information visit www.waterstones. com

Mon 29 May – Fri 2 Jun May Half Term, Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD

11am-4pm. Imagine you’re Head Gardener for the day. See if you can spot the clues as you follow the trail round the park and then have some fun making crafts to take home. Charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ morden-hall-park

Love Your Zoo Week, Battersea Park Children’s Zoo, SW11 4NJ This Half Term the zoo is taking part in the BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums) Love Your Zoo Week celebrations. Each day a different animal will step into the spotlight. For more information visit www. batterseaparkzoo.co.uk

For lots more Roundabout ideas see page 14...

Fun Days Out this Holiday available for children of all ages, with a small prize for everyone who takes part. Admission and all activities are free. The exhibition is open from 30 May to 2 June from 10.30am–4.30pm each day. For more details please visit www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum or call 020 7601 5545.

Head Gardener for the Day at Morden Hall Park Piggy Banks Galore

The Bank of England has a large collection of money boxes which come in various shapes and sizes, from wise owls to garden gnomes. Join the Museum this Half Term and follow the trail to see if you can spot these money boxes.You can then join a fun and creative workshop and decorate your own ceramic piggy bank to take home, a perfect way to start saving your pennies. While you’re at the Museum, there are plenty of attractions to make sure you have a fun family day out including a banknote jigsaw, a roller ball game and the opportunity to take part in some safe cracking.You can even hold the bank’s genuine gold bar which might take you by surprise – it weighs in at an impressive 13 kilos. Activity sheets are also

What small person doesn’t want to be the boss? This May Half Term from Monday 29 May to Friday 2 June between 11am and 4pm the little ones can help Chris, Morden Hall Park’s Head Gardener, as they take part in the whacky Plant Olympics around the rose garden and make a Head Gardener kit to take home. Get out and enjoy the sunshine. With 125 acres to explore you can while away hours galloping through meadows, discovering riverside paths, spotting wildlife from our 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 homemade fare and the ice cream parlour in the Stableyard also serves drinks and light refreshments. If a spot of shopping appeals, the Morden Hall Continued on page 12

Piggy Bank on us! 30 May–2 June 10:30am–4:30pm

May half-term at Morden Hall Park Mon 29 May - Fri 2 Jun, 11am - 4pm

Take inspiration from our collection of money boxes by following the trail and then join a creative workshop and decorate your own ceramic piggy bank.

10:00am–5:00pm Share your experience Monday to Friday. Closed weekends and boemuseum Bank Holidays. Entrance T: 020 7601 5545 in Bartholomew Lane, London EC2R 8AH www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum

Chris the Head Gardener has lost his plants. Help him track them down as you take part in our Plant Olympics. Then make your very own Head Gardener kit to take home. £4 per child. Call 020 8545 6850 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.

15 May - 2 July 17

Fun Days Out this Holiday

Continued from page 11 Park Garden Centre is a treasure trove of gardening goodies. There is no need to book Half Term activities in advance, just join in on the day from £4 per child at the welcome desk in the Stableyard Gallery. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hallpark. Photo credit: Arnhel de Serra.

London Rivers Week is back for 2017

After the success of the first London Rivers Week in 2016, there are plans to make the event bigger and better in 2017. Running from Monday 26 June to Sunday 2 July, London River Week celebrates London’s rivers and raises the profile of river restoration. It provides Londoners with opportunities to learn more about the city’s rivers and to find out how they are being improved for people and wildlife. London’s rivers are often peaceful, natural places, where we can escape city life. They are havens where we can relax by the water, watch swans nesting or if we’re lucky, spot a flash of blue as one of Britain’s most beautiful birds, a kingfisher, speeds across the water. Watch out for public events, such as walks and talks at sites where restoration projects have been carried out as well as river related activities. See www.thames21.org.uk/londonriversweek nearer the date for more information.

The Bright Emporium

Things to Do Before You’re 11 ¾ list was created by the National Trust to encourage young adventurers to explore the great outdoors. Dilys the black labrador belongs to Head Gardener Rosie and she’s managed to escape. Dilys has been exploring the Ham House gardens. Track where Dilys has visited by finding her paw prints and complete a 50 Things challenge at each stop. The trail costs £2 with a prize and is suitable for ages 3 and up. During weekdays (29 May to 2 June) Ham House will be having Plant it, Grow it, Eat it drop-in workshops in the Dairy from 1-3pm. Tick off No. 41 on your 50 Things list by planting some seeds and taking them home for you to watch grow and later eat. Children can tick off No. 18 on their 50 Things list by making some wild art in the Education Room below stairs. Below stairs is open for free flow access between 12noon and 4pm daily with last entry at 3.30pm. Inside Ham House on selected days, they will be having storytelling in the Back Parlour. Check with Visitor Reception for availability and times. For further information please visit the Ham House and Garden website at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-house-and-garden.

Senses

We use our senses all the time to help us understand the world around us - but what exactly are they doing for us and how are they doing it? Feel, see, hear and smell your way around this interactive exhibition at Kingston Museum to discover how our senses help us and how they sometimes trick us. How do we see in 3D? How do we work out where sounds are coming from? Challenge your memory, balance and reactions. Test

The Bright Emporium is a fabulous space in St John’s Hill that combines shop, workshop and event space championing all things creative. Born of The Bright Group, a leading illustration agency for children’s publishing, the Emporium opened in 2015 to celebrate their artists work and share it with the public. It’s a unique space that needs to be seen and can also be hired. Open every weekend and with events during holidays, The Bright Emporium runs a range of workshops from Storytime with their artists and authors, to drama and craft classes using beautiful tales from their books. They have also launched a partnership with NOTORiOUS KiDS parties making your children’s party dreams come true. Together they’ve created parties that brilliantly bring books to life. They are nothing short of fantastic!

LONDON’S NO.1 SIGHTSEEING TOUR ON THE THAMES

kids gofree with a FAMILY RIVER PASS

Big Ben, The London Eye, Tower Bridge and more. See the best views in London with our River Thames sightseeing cruise, with City Cruises’ boats departing every 40 minutes and tickets starting at £10.25.

The objective of The Bright Emporium is to expose children to a world of creativity, as they believe engaging with the arts helps shape children’s personalities and encourages their growth across the board. Contact The Bright Emporium by email on mail@thebrightemporium. com, visit www.thebrightemporium.com or call 020 7326 9140.You can also follow them on @brightemporium.You’ll find The Bright Emporium at 103–105 St John’s Hill in Clapham.

May Half Term at Ham House and Garden

Join the team at Ham House and Garden for May half term, Saturday 27 May to Sunday 4 June, when they will have lots of the 50 Things to Do Before You’re 11¾ workshops, trails and craft activities so your little ones can tick off as many of their 50 Things as possible. The 50 12

15 May - 2 July 17

Ticket types We offer a range of ticket types, from single & return journeys to hop-on, hop-off 24 and 72 hour River Passes.

On board facilities Cruises depart Every 40 minutes from our piers at Westminster, London Eye, Tower and Greenwich.

BUY TICKETS ONLINE

citycruises.com OR CALL

+44 (0)20 77 400 400

Fun Days Out this Holiday

your hearing with an older person to find out how it changes as we age. Explore your senses at the free exhibition at Kingston Museum from 5 May until 17 June. Alongside the exhibition, there will be plenty of family friendly events. On 20 May, join artist Tim Pond and explore the way art engages more senses than the eye. On 23 May enjoy a free sensory session on the landscape of the Borough suitable for visitors with visual impairment, all welcome. The sense lab on 2 June is perfect for under 5s to explore the world with touch, smell, taste, hearing and sight. On 10 and 17 June explore Families’ Special: Feeling Colourful. Led by architect and artist Clara Fruggeri, learn how colours and light affect our mood. To book onto the child friendly sessions call 020 8547 5006. Find out more about the Senses exhibition at www.kingston.gov.uk/museum.

May half-term at Ham House and Garden Add some colour to 27 May- 4 June your weekend this Join us for May half-term when we autumn Gibside will have lots at of 50 things to do

before you're 11¾ activities; including a children's trail, craft Go crunching through fallen leaves and discover a forest activities and and onautumn weekdays 'plant teeming with wildlife colours, with walking it, routes for all ages and abilities. grow it, eat it' workshops. nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside Call 020 8940 1950 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/hamhouse When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your

©support National Trust Theplaces National helps us to look2017. after special <in the region> <like property Y and Proeprty Z> in for ever, for everyone. Trust is X,anproperty independent registered charity, number 205846. © National Trust 2016. The National Trust is an independent © National Trust registered charity, number PhotographyTrust #nationaltrust Photography ©205846. National Images. #nationaltrust Images.

Summer Half Term

SENSES

29 May – 2 June 10am – 4pm

An interactive exhibition for the whole family! Daily activities:

Feel, see, hear and smell your way around this interactive exhibition to discover how our senses help us and how they sometimes trick us.. How do we work out where sounds are coming from? Challenge your memory, balance and reactions, see how your own eye reacts to light. Test your hearing with an older person to find out how it changes as we age..

Plant a Fruit & Vegetable Box £5.50

20 May: Families special: Beyond sight What does the ridges of a sea shell feel like and what does the sound of an elephant, or the waves crashing on a shore sound like? Join artist Tim Pond and explore the way art engages more senses than the eye £3/child, 2-4pm. Suitable 5+, younger siblings welcome.

Veggie Hunt Free Win a P r iz e

1 June: Thumbs up it’s Thursday Try out a range of scientific experiments to test your senses! 2-4pm, drop in. 10 & 17 June: Families special - feeling colourful! Come along to the Museum and learn how colours and light affect our mood. Led by architect and artist Clara Fruggeri. £3/child, 2-4pm, ring Museum to book.

KINGSTON MUSEUM Wheatfield Way, KT1 2PS Kingston upon Thames T: 020 8547 5006 www.kingston.gov.uk/museum Open: Tue, Fri, Sat 10am-5pm Thu 10am-7pm © Science Projects Ltd

Share your experience!

Sixth Cross Road, Twickenham, Middlesex, TW2 5PA Visit: squiresgardencentres.co.uk

15 May - 2 July 17

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary across May, June and July

May Create and Grown, Squires Garden Centre, Twickenham, TW2 5PA

10am-4pm. Plant a tasty edible box with three plants to grow and take home to enjoy. There will also be a free veggie hunt activity 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

Tues 30 May

Chocolate Tuesday, Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS

10.30am-3pm. The day will include craft activities, a Garden tour, chocolate tasting and the chance to create your own mixtures to take away. Ages 6-10. For more information and to book visit www. chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk

Love Your Zoo Week, Battersea Park Children’s Zoo, SW11 4NJ

Help the keepers to make enrichment for the Coati at their 2pm feed. In the morning you will get the chance to make an animal badge between 11am-12.30pm and listen to an animal story at 11.45am. For more information visit www. batterseaparkzoo.co.uk

London Tree Week Tree or False Walkshop, Mary Geraldine Harmsworth Park, Southwark, SE1

6.15pm. A fun and interactive walkshop following the park’s ‘Ice Age Tree Trail’. Bolster your knowledge of interesting tree facts with a unique spin on ‘true or false’. Suitable for all ages and a great family evening out. Free. For more information and to book visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk

What was Life Like in the Swinging Sixties?, The National Archives, Richmond, TW9 4DU 10.30am-12noon. Delve into the collection of original documents to find out more about fashion, music and culture in this famous decade, before taking part in a creative activity. Ages 7-11. Free. For more information and to register visit www.nationalarchives.gov.uk

Sensory Explorers, Brockwell Park Community Greenhouses, Herne Hill, SE24 0PA 10.30am-12.30pm. Children will enjoy making their own scented water, drawing a sound map, playing a camouflage game, and making a natural rubbing or print. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www. brockwellgreenhouses.org.uk

15 May - 2 July 17

Half Term Activities Day, South London Botanical Institute, SE24 9AQ

10am-12noon and 2-4pm. Learn how to make your own plant press and take a trip to Brockwell Park to find your plants to press in them. Ages 4+. Book on 020 8674 5787. For more information visit www.slbi.org.uk

Once Upon a Very Bad Fairytale, BFI Southbank, SE1 8XT

11am-4.30pm. Let your imagination run free in this fairytale-themed stopmotion animation workshop. Ages 8-12. For more information and to book visit www.bfi.org.uk

Tues 30 – Wed 31 May

A Journey Through Time Camp, Honeywell Infant and Junior Schools, Battersea, SW11 6EF

9am-12noon. Using LEGO kits comprising of over 4000 bricks children will have the opportunity to use their creativity to design and construct the homes of history and tomorrow. Ages 5-11. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www.mini-engineers.com

Tues 30 May – Fri 2 Jun Piggy Bank on Us!, Bank of England Museum, EC2R 8AH

10.30am-4.30pm. Follow the trail around the museum to see if you can spot some of the Bank’s collection of money boxes.You can then join a fun and creative workshop and decorate your own ceramic piggy bank to take home. For more information visit www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum

Wed 31 May

Glad Rags Costume Making Day, Polka Theatre, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB

10.30am. Spend the day making crazy costume creations for characters to wear, then show them off in our fashion show at the end of the day. Ages 5-7. For more information and to book visit www.polkatheatre.com

Love Your Zoo Week, Battersea Park Children’s Zoo, SW11 4NJ Help the keepers to make enrichment for the pigs at their 3.30pm feed. In the morning you will get the chance to make

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

”

an animal badge between 11am12.30pm and listen to an animal story at 11.45am. For more information visit www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk

One, Two, Three!, Brockwell Park Community Greenhouses, Herne Hill, SE24 0PA 10.30am-12.30pm. Help to mark London Tree Week by celebrating the trees in the gardens and Brockwell Park.You’ll be taking part in blindfolded tree hugging, a mirror walk, folklore trail, and nature crafts. Ages 5+. For more information and to book visit www. brockwellgreenhouses.org.uk

and have fun making up tall stories about them too. Meet on the lawn outside the café. Ages 7+. For more information and to book visit www. museumofwalking.org.uk

Thurs 1 – Fri 2 Jun

Nature Mash Up, Centre for Wildlife Gardening, East Dulwich, SE15 4EE

11am-4pm. A fun, free family learning course for parents and children together. Forage for wild edible plants and make herbal remedies and recycled paper. Southwark residents only. For more information and to book email dwallace@wildlondon. org.uk

Fri 2 Jun

Look Out, There’s a Mini-beast About!, The National Archives, Richmond, TW9 4DU 10.30am-12noon. In this session, children will have the opportunity to find out about some of the famous records and the problems that bugs can cause for an archive. Free. For more information and to register visit www.nationalarchives.gov.uk

Love Your Zoo Week, Battersea Park Children’s Zoo, SW11 4NJ

June Thurs 1 Jun

Lotions and Potions, Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS

10.30am-2.30pm. Can a food be a medicine? Can a medicine be a poison? Find out something of the history of medicine and the amazing power of plants to heal and soothe. Ages 7+. For more information and to book visit www. chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk

Love Your Zoo Week, Battersea Park Children’s Zoo, SW11 4NJ See the ferrets get special treatment with your help at 2.45pm. In the morning you will get the chance to make an animal badge between 11am-12.30pm and listen to an animal story at 11.45am. For more information visit www. batterseaparkzoo.co.uk

Acting Lab, Polka Theatre, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB

10.30am. Spend the day experimenting with role play, improvisation, characterisation and other drama techniques and games that professional actors like to play with in this fun-filled, creative workshop. Ages 7-11. For more information and to book visit www. polkatheatre.com

Ceramics for Families, Richmond Art School, TW9 2RE 10am-3pm. This course is suitable for children aged 7 to 14 years accompanied by their parents or guardians who are looking for an opportunity to enjoy learning together. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www. racc.ac.uk

Tall Tree Stories, Fulham Palace Gardens, SW6 6EA

3-4pm. Fun for the family, but more so for children.You get to hear about trees, some truths, some fibs,

Help the keepers to make enrichment for the monkeys at their 3pm feed. In the morning you will get the chance to make an animal badge between 11am-12.30pm and listen to an animal story at 11.45am. For more information visit www. batterseaparkzoo.co.uk

Senses, Kingston Museum, Kingston-upon-Thames, KT1 2PS

10.15-11am.Visit the sense lab for little ones to explore the world with touch, smell, taste, hearing and sight. Under 5s. Free, drop in event. For more information visit www.kingston. gov.uk

Family Gardening Club, Osterley Park and House, Isleworth, TW7 4RB

11am-3pm. Get stuck in with digging, planting, weeding and watering as you learn about how vegetables grow in these drop in sessions with the garden volunteers. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterleypark-and-house

Spring in Your Step, Polka Theatre, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB

10am. It’s time to step out in this lively movement and dance workshop inspired by springtime. Ages 3-5. For more information and to book visit www.polkatheatre.com

Creative Glass for Families, Richmond Art School, TW9 2RE 10am-3pm. In this course you will be exploring fused glass, cutting and assembling as well as using crushed glass to make patterns. Ages 7-14. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www.racc.ac.uk

For lots more Roundabout ideas see page 16...

Win One of Five ‘Paw Patrol: Game On!’ DVDs The Paw Patrol pups know how to mix fun and responsibility. In their new DVD, ‘Paw Patrol: Game On!, everyone’s favourite rescue pups are back in action in seven exciting, sports-themed adventures and rescues. There’s no denying the Pups know how to be brave and have fun. Join the Patrol as they get into all kinds of adventures – watch as they quest to return some ancient scrolls, form a basketball team to win a match for Adventure Bay, help train Mayor Goodway for the annual Mayor’s race, get into trouble saving the snowboard slopes and much, much more. They may even be visited by the Kit-tastrophe crew kittens once or twice. ‘Paw Patrol: Game On!’ is due to be released on 22 May at a recommended price of £6.99. For your chance to win one of these DVDs tell us the name of the mayor they help train for the Mayor’s race. See below for details of how to enter.

Win a Free Week on a Super Camps Multi-Activity Course Super Camps is the UK’s No.1 for childcare during the school holidays with 75 camps around the country dedicated to entertaining and educating children over the summer holidays. Having consistently entertained children while reassuring parents at their activity camps for over 20 years, they’re available at fantastic and convenient locations. Each camp offers age appropriate activities to maximise fun and develop skills. Activities include swimming, quad biking, archery tag, bouncy castles and much more. Not to mention, they’re all run by a team of specialised and trained staff to maximise fun as well as the safety and wellbeing of each child. Super Camps is giving one lucky parent a free week on the multi-activity course worth up to £210. To enter, simply head to www.supercamps.co.uk/win and enter your details.

Win a Diary of a Wimpy Kid Goody Bag

Competitions

Competitions In ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul’, a Heffley family road trip to attend Meemaw’s 90th birthday party goes hilariously off course thanks to Greg’s newest scheme to get to a video gaming convention. Based on one of the best-selling book series of all time, this family cross-country adventure turns into an experience the Heffleys will never forget. ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul’ is released in cinemas on Friday 20 May.

To celebrate we have five goody bags for lucky Primary Times readers to win. The goody bags include a sticker sheet, pencil toppers, pencil case, Wimpy Kid soft toy and a notebook. For your chance to win, tell us where the family are supposed to be going on their trip. See below for details of how to enter.

Win Coco the Cat Merrythought in Ironbridge is a one-off - no other factory in the UK makes teddies and soft toys like these any more. Run by three sisters, Merrythought has a client list to die for (Harrods, Highgrove, Fortnum and Mason etc.) Rather than sit on a shelf like a silver memento or precious keepsake, Merrythought soft toys are made to be played with - a companion throughout childhood. Merrythought have recently brought a new character, Coco the Cat, into the range. Brought to life in an authentically vintage style, this charming character is packed with endearing features. Coco is made from dense black mohair contrasted with white mohair inner ears, tummy and upper paws. Black cotton whiskers and claws complete his adorable look. The recommended price in the shops for Coco the Cat is £69. Visit www.merrythought.co.uk for more details We have one of these beautiful cats to give away to a lucky Primary Times reader. For your chance to win, just tell us the name of the company who make them. See below for details of how to enter.

To enter any of the competitions send your answer along with your name, age, school, address and phone number to Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London, SE12 8LG. Don’t forget to include the name of the competition. Alternatively email your answer and details to competitions@primarytimes.biz with the competion name as the subject by Friday 16 June. If you are entering more than one competition you can put all entries in the same envelope. Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

15 May - 2 July 17

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary across May, June and July

June BioBlitz Late, Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD

8.30pm. Help get the BioBlitz species count off to a flying start as you trap moths and walk the wetland boardwalk in search of newts, frogs and toads. For more information and to book visit www.nationaltrust.org. uk/morden-hall-park

Green Screen Animating, BFI Southbank, SE1 8XT

11am-4.30pm. Appear alongside your very own animation creation in this fun-packed workshop. Ages 8-12. For more information and to book visit www.bfi.org.uk

Stories & Poems for Kids with Michael Rosen, Royal Albert Hall, Kensington, SW7 2AP

11am and 2pm. Michael Rosen, one of the most well-known figures in the children’s book world, is coming to the Elgar Room to read some of his best-loved poems and stories for kids. Ages 7-11. For more information and to book visit www. royalalberthall.com

Fri 2 – Sat 10 Jun

Brockley Max Festival, Various Locations Enjoy a packed programme of gigs, films, art exhibitions, theatre, kids activities and more. Most events are free and will take place in venues across Brockley, Crofton Park, Honor Oak Park and Ladywell. For more information and to view the programme of events visit www. brockleymax.co.uk

Sat 3 Jun

Write On!, The Bright Emporium, Clapham, SW11 1SY (Also 17 Jun) 1.15-2.30pm. Using a wide range of stimulus including music, art, games, group work and more, children are encouraged to develop their story making skills in a relaxed, imaginative and fun environment. Ages 7-10. For more information and to book visit www. thebrightemporium.com

Bat Walk and Moth Trapping, Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD

8.30pm. Join in for a night time walk around the park and its wetland in search of bats to add to the BioBlitz species total.You will also have the opportunity to see some moth survey traps in action. For more information and to book visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park

Walking-lore, Sydenham Hill Woods, Dulwich, SE22 8YU

2-4pm and 6-8pm. Discover the legends and folktales lurking in the woods. This afternoon’s storytelling session will take families on a walking-lore of Dulwich and Sydenham Hill Woods, where you will use your senses as your guide. For more information and to book visit www.wildlondon.org.uk

15 May - 2 July 17

Roof Garden Fun Day, Doddington Community Roof Garden, SW11 5HD

11am-4pm. Celebrate the summertime at the Doddington and Rollo Community Roof Garden’s annual family fun day. Games, strawberry-picking, slug-and-snailhunting, face-painting, food and music all on a roof. Free. For more information visit www.chelseafringe. com

Sat 3 – Sun 4 Jun

BioBlitz, Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD

10am-4pm. Help to identify and record plants and animals within the park’s many habitats including the wetlands and meadows. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/morden-hall-park

Sun 4 Jun

Musical Animals with Matt Hunt’s Message in a Bottle, The Bright Emporium, Clapham, SW11 1SY

1.30-2.30pm. In this session you will make your own musical instruments to join lion’s band- a mix of storytelling and music making, this session is bound to be lots of fun. Ages 3-7. For more information and to book visit www. thebrightemporium.com

A Musical Mystery, Dulwich Picture Gallery, SE21 7AD

2.30pm and 3.10pm. Explore the stories behind the permanent collection and temporary exhibitions in interactive sessions with storyteller Fiona Alderton. Taking place in the Dulwich Pavilion. Ages 3+. Buy your ticket on the day. For more information visit www. dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk

The Lord Mayor’s Hot Air Balloon Regatta®, City of London

(11, 18 and 25 Jun reserve dates if weather not suitable) Each year fifty hot air balloons take flight across central London raising awareness and funds for the Lord Mayor’s Appeal. For more information visit www. balloonregatta.com

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

“

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

”

Thurs 8 – Sun 11 Jun

Balham Literary Festival, Bedford Pub, Balham, SW12 9HD

The second annual Balham Literary Festival will take place over the weekend with the theme ‘Happy, Healthy, Home? It will explore health, parenting and more. There’ll also be fun events for children. To view the full programme of events and to book tickets visit www. balhamliteraryfestival.co.uk

Sat 10 Jun

Neon Leon Visits Balham, The Bedford, Balham, SW12 9HD 10am. Join in for an interactive children’s storytelling session with Jane Clarke, author of Neon Leon and 80 other children’s books. The children will learn all about Leon and take part in a range of fun arts and crafts activities inspired by his story. Ages 3+. To book visit www. balhamliteraryfestival.co.uk

The Hamptons’ Carnival, Nursery Green, Hampton, TW12 3RN

12noon. Great community event in Hampton, with stalls, community activities, live music and summer fun. For more information visit www. ymcalsw.org

Feeling Colourful!, Kingston Museum, Kingston-uponThames, KT1 2PS

2-4pm. Go along to the Museum and learn how colours and light affect our mood. Led by architect and artist Clara Fruggeri. Book on 020 8547 5006. Charges apply. For more information visit www.kingston.gov. uk

Sat 10 – Sun 11 Jun Open Weekend, Brixton Windmill, SW2 5EU

Book your place on a full tour with one of the tour guides which ventures into restricted areas or enjoy a short tour which investigates the internal workings on the first floor. Email booking@ brixtonwindmill.org.uk to book. For more information visit www. brixtonwindmill.org

Sun 11 Jun

Sarah Drivers Presents The Huntress, The Bedford, Balham, SW12 9HD

10am. Children are invited to climb aboard The Huntress for a special interactive session with author Sarah Driver. With storytelling, arts and crafts, and creative writing activities for the children, it promises to be a fun-filled adventure. Ages 9+. To book visit www.balhamliteraryfestival.co.uk

Family Treasure Hunt Bike Ride, Little Green, Richmond TW9, 1PL

3-7pm. Solve riddles and search for ‘treasure’ whilst cycling the River Thames. Hop on Hammertons Ferry and continue the hunt, finishing with an afternoon tea picnic. For more information and to book visit www. merrypedallerbiketours.co.uk

Building the Gallery, Dulwich Picture Gallery, SE21 7AD 2-4pm. Join in the fun in new Dulwich Pavilion to create a variety of structures inspired by the gallery and Pavilion itself. Ages 3+. Buy your ticket on the day. For more information visit www. dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk

Children’s Treasure Hunt Bike Ride, Orleans Riverside Gardens, Twickenham, TW1 3DJ

10am-12noon. On bikes or scooters, little ones will enjoy searching for ‘treasure’ in this fun hunt. Afterwards, complete your sticker map at the afternoon tea picnic. Enjoy pots of tea, homemade cakes and squash for the kids in the playground park. To book visit www. merrypedallerbiketours.co.uk

Open Farm Sunday, Nationwide

A fantastic project which has seen hundreds of farmers across the UK opening up their farm for one Sunday each year – a great opportunity for everyone, young and old, to discover first-hand what it means to be a farmer. To find a farm to visit and for more information visit www. farmsunday.org

Tues 13 Jun

Friends of Battersea Park Barbecue, Battersea Park Children’s Zoo, SW11 4NJ

Every year in June The Friends of Battersea Park have a fundraising evening BBQ at the Zoo. There will be live music, children’s activities, tombola and more. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.batterseapark.org/bbq

Sat 17 Jun

The Wimbledon Guild Village Fair, Wimbledon Common Southside, SW19 4TG

10.30am-5pm. The fair caters for shopaholics, foodies and families alike with its huge range of entertainment including food villages, information stands, children’s zones and performances. Free entry. For more information visit www. wimbledonguildvillagefair.org.uk

5-a-side Football Tournament, Brixton Windmill, SW2 5EU

There are places for four teams to register in each of the following age groups: Under 8 years, Under 12 years, Under 14 years and Under 16 years. Winning teams are awarded a shield, and each winning team member gets a medal and certificate. To sign up email Shaun Wilson at one.s.wilson@gmail.com

For lots more Roundabout ideas see page 22...

Education News

The Mall School is to Become an 11+ School The Mall School is an independent day school for boys aged from 4 years old. Located in Twickenham, entry into the school at Reception (4+) is non-selective. Entry into the school’s expanded Year 3 (7+) is based on an assessment. The Mall School’s mission is to bring out the best in every boy. They believe that all boys have potential and that it is through inspirational teaching and excellent pastoral care that the school can develop this potential. The Mall’s independence enables them to find

the right senior school for every boy and as a non-selective school, they have an impressive record of success at securing places at, and scholarships to, a range of academically selective senior schools. In recent years boys have won academic awards and a range of other scholarships, including art and music, to top senior schools including Hampton, St Paul’s, KCS Wimbledon, St George’s College, Reed’s and Whitgift. The school has recently announced that it is to move from being a 13+ school to an 11+ school from 2019. The Mall School will continue to offer boys an excellent all-round education with a rich and challenging curriculum with strong pastoral care focused on each boy’s happiness and well-being. The current site has been refurbished over the years so that boys enjoy purpose-built facilities including science laboratories, an indoor swimming pool, a Creative and Performing Arts Centre for drama, art and design, technology and a new sports hall. There is a breakfast club and a wide range of extra-curricular activities available offering parents wraparound care between the hours of 7.30am and 6.00pm. The school also runs a number of minibuses. The school is holding an Open Day for prospective parents on Monday 12 June from 9.00am. Parents interested in attending should email admissions@themallschool.org.uk or call 020 8614 1082

Getting Organised with JK Educate The joy of being truly organised can be a powerful thing, as borne out by the continued global success of the Konmari tidying method (see The Life-Changing Magic Of Tidying by Marie Kondo, published by Vermillion). Being prepared and organised is also the key to avoiding panic and anxiety about homework, assignments and exam revision.

The Mall is a successful independent prep school for boys age 4+ in Twickenham From 2019 we will become an 11+ school and boys will leave at the end of Year 6

Non-selective entry into Reception (4+) Entry into our expanded Year 3 (7+) is based on assessment Popular destinations include: Hampton, KCS Wimbledon, St Paul’s, Reed’s & St George’s College Minibuses from: Richmond, Kew, St Margaret’s, Twickenham, Chiswick and Kingston

“It is great for our son to be in such an engaging environment, with staff that are kind and caring.” Reception parent

Bringing out the best in every boy 185 Hampton Road, Twickenham TW2 5NQ • 020 8614 1082

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

15 May - 2 July 17

Education News

A weekly planner for homework is a great organisational tool for any student, even at primary school level. Using different colours to highlight whether work has a long or short deadline is useful and a good habit to form. Students need a work area where they will be uninterrupted and comfortable. The kitchen table may be fine for an only child, but it’s usually better to find a quieter place that’s dedicated to studying and has everything they need laid out. It sounds trivial, but having a full supply of stationery to hand can make all the difference and avoids wasting time searching for a ruler or a red pen. If your child is revising, for class tests or SATs, it’s important to build in mealtimes, leisure activities and very frequent short breaks during study. Encourage active learning, even at this young age, for example with a supply of large sheets of paper and coloured pens to create colourful posters displaying key facts. JK Educate specialises in bespoke support for children’s learning, with schools advice, child assessments, specialist subject tutoring, entrance exam preparation and study skills. Call them on 020 3488 0754 or contact them via www.jkeducate.co.uk.

The Wind in the Willows

New musical, The Wind in the Willows, opens at the London Palladium this summer from 16 June to 9 September. Based on the children’s classic novel, the major new musical stars actor and comedian Rufus Hound as Mr Toad. The Wind in the Willows is the perfect treat for students of all ages and is a fantastic introduction to theatre. The production is particularly suitable for students of English, Drama and Theatre Studies and has strong curriculum links to Literacy, PSHE and SEAL. For Key Stage 2 and Lower Key Stage 3 teachers and pupils, the team behind the Wind in the Willows has created an educational resources pack which offers a programme of work aimed at providing young people with the inspiration, confidence and skills to develop their own writing. Whilst these resources are aimed at Key Stage 2 and Lower Key Stage 3, they can be adapted to be used with young people of all ages. There are school offers on performances from 20 June to 20 July. For families, tickets will be available from £15, with reduced price preview performances. Kids go free on Monday to Friday performances for tickets booked by 31 May. Terms and conditions apply.

a 15 minutes break between sessions. Use blank paper and list key headings for the subject. Summarise points under these headings and learn the points. Then look at real questions, see which ones you can answer easily and find out which topics you need to look at again. The most important piece of advice is to seek help if you’re having difficulties. Even ‘great’ people need support – the ‘greats’ in sport and business have their coaches. This is where NumberWorks’nWords comes in. They offer professional tutoring in maths and English, reception to year 11. The centre is Ofsted registered and a member of The Tutors’ Association. Call the Wimbledon branch on 020 8543 7333 or Surbiton at 020 8399 1234.

The Backpack Project

Help underprivileged children in countries like Malawi and Liberia get the best out of school with the Backpack Project by Mary’s Meals. Mary’s Meals provides life-sustaining and life-changing meals to more than one million of the world’s poorest children every school day. The idea is simple; they provide a nutritious daily meal in school which attracts chronically hungry children into the classroom where they will receive an education and learn skills that can offer them a route out of poverty. Very often the children they support don’t have access to even basic things like pens and notepads to allow them to make the best of their education.You can help solve this problem by filling an old school bag or backpack with some everyday educational items. Fill your backpack full of anything you think might be useful at school – including notepads, pencils and

Do You Have Good Revision Habits?

Everyone learns in their own way. At NumberWorks’nWords every student’s individual needs are considered as staff cultivate healthy and efficient learning habits. Even high-achievers may not reach their potential if they’re not developing effective work habits. Most students benefit from improved time management, organisation and revision skills. NumberWorks’nWords has offered a few top tips for revision success. Firstly plan, plan, plan – list all revision tasks along with deadlines. Plan your timetable in chunks of an hour and give yourself 18

15 May - 2 July 17

Schools - Don’t miss out on advertising your open days in our Bumper ‘New Schools’ features in our Summer and September issues If you would like to advertise in them please contact: 020 8318 0400 or email andrew@primarytimes.biz For thousands more ideas visit www.primarytimes.net

Burntwood’s Future

As has always been their commitment in the past, Burntwood has developed plans for an ethical, sustainable, empowering collaboration of a group of schools where ensuring bright futures for the young people is the priority. This secure, sustainable arrangement will encourage the recruitment and retention of outstanding practitioners who will also have improved opportunities for their own development. Burntwood is renowned for its breadth and depth of curriculum offer. Sport and the Visual, Creative & Performing Arts are celebrated alongside the promotion of the Sciences, Mathematics, English and Humanities. The Multi Academy Trust will permit the development of strong, supportive bonds between like-minded schools so that, together, the group of schools can even more effectively support the students to become successful, high achieving members of the community.

Education News

pens, crayons or a ruler – as well as clothes, towels, flip-flops or sandals, toothpaste or tennis balls that will make a huge difference to the daily lives of these students. Please don’t be tempted to put in other treats such as toys or sweets as this can cause problems with customs during delivery. Mary’s Meals will send the filled backpacks to children who really need them, which will enable them to attend school and gain an education that can help them escape from poverty when they grow up. Clothing should be suitable for children aged 4-12 years. Second hand items are fine as long as they are in good condition. Please label your backpack to show if it is suitable for a boy or girl and for what age. To find out how you can make a child happy in this way visit www. marysmeals.org.uk.

Burntwood School has existed now for over three successful decades. This means that the School has strong established traditions of academic excellence whilst always striving to move forward and ensure that the students get the very best education designed to prepare them for the future. Following the recent, acclaimed rebuilding of the School, Burntwood is continuing to move forward and plans have recently been approved for it to develop into a Multi Academy Trust.

AN ACADEMY FOR GIRLS

BURNTWOOD LANE, SW17 0AQ. Tel: 020 8946 6201 www.burntwoodschool.com

YEAR YEAR77OPEN OPENDAYS DAYS -- OPEN OPEN MORNINGS MORNINGS- Tuesday am Tuesday5th 4thJuly July8.45 8.45am Thursday 7th July 8.45 am Tuesday 10th October 8.45am Tuesday11th October 8.45 am

OPEN EVENING EVENING- -- OPEN Wednesday 27th September 6pm Wednesday 28th September 6.00 pm

15 May - 2 July 17

Camps, Courses and Classes Summer Fun at Super Camps

Super Camps’ fabulous new Multi-Activity programme allows children to get involved in some great new activities. As well as taking part in the fun-packed programme, children are cared for by fully qualified and vetted staff to create a thoroughly enjoyable time on camp. As Ofsted noted, Super Camps runs “an excellent programme of well-planned, fun and exciting activities that contributes highly to the children’s play and learning environment.” The Early Years programme just for 4 to 5 year olds ensures learning and development within a fun environment. The 6 to 9 year old crews can explore new activities and take on new challenges such as The Avengers School of Archery, Super Camps Driving School and Motor Mania. Our 10 to 12 year olds can come together in their very own common room as well as spend more time tackling activities in depth. Camps run throughout the school summer holidays. You can save 15% with code PRIMARY15.Visit www.supercamps.co.uk or call 01235 467 300.

Camps are running their outstanding holiday childcare programmes in these three areas for children aged 4-14 years. Ultimate Activity Camps offer the opportunity for children to have fun, meet friends and try a brilliant array of exciting activities during the school holidays. From zorbing and tennis to archery, art and fencing, there are over 40 games, sports or creative activities giving children a new experience every day. They also run adventurous storyled Ultimate Survival programmes at a number of locations which also offer an optional Camp Out each week. Book your child’s Ultimate Activity Camp by 13 June and get £20 off a week (now £179), or £4 off a day (now £39). For more information or to book, visit www.ultimateactivity.co.uk or call 03301 117 077 (local rate).

The Movie Making Book

Making movies is now easier for young people than ever before using nothing more than a smartphone or a tablet along with simple editing programmes. The Movie Making Book teaches you all the skills you need to get started to make your own blockbuster, from camera angles to scriptwriting to special effects. Each project is designed to offer you the tools you need to become an accomplished movie maker at home. There are also fourteen more advanced, longer projects to put your skills to the test, and advice on safely sharing your movies online. The projects are all suitable for movie makers aged seven and upwards, although some may require help from adults. To extend your movie-making skills, follow the book’s Pro Tips to help you get professional-looking results. Inside you will find sections on tackling tricky shots, editing your movie, filming your own talk show, montages, pet movies, making old fashioned films, casting, costumes and even shooting a secret spy film. Not only does the Movie Making Book inspire creativity in your children, it also encourages collaboration between them and their friends as they get together to make a movie. Get your child a new hobby and endless hours of entertainment with this easy-to-follow guide. The Movie Making Book is available in paperback from all good online and high street retailers for £12.99.

Ultimate Activity Camps Ultimate Activity Camps are coming to Kingston, Surbiton and Sutton this summer. Children will have the most fun during the holidays as Ultimate Activity 20

15 May - 2 July 17

MPS IN SUMMER DAY CA, KINGSTON, DON PUTNEY, WIMBLE KENHAM AND IC HAMPTON, TW N SUTTO

HERY TAG SWIMMING • ARC• LEGO QUAD BIKES ACTIVITIES AND MANY MORE

• 8AM - 6PM MONDAY - FRIDAY REGISTERED TED AGES 4 - 12 • OFS DE SAVE 15% WITH CO

PRIMARY15

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Dramacube Productions are launching their new site in Kingston this summer with a three-day musical theatre workshop production inspired by the popular classic, The Wizard of Oz. Supported by a professional director, choreographer and musical director, children aged 7-14yrs will participate in acting, singing and dancing as they work towards a performance under the lights at the impressive new studio theatre at Tiffin Girls School on day three. Founded in 2012, Dramacube produce two major shows each year plus four workshop productions at theatres in and around Kingston, including Hampton Hill Theatre, Epsom Playhouse, The Drama Theatre, Twickenham and Questors Theatre, Ealing. Recent performances include Fame Jr, The Lion the Witch & the Wardrobe (nominated for two Swan Awards), Annie Jr, High School Musical 2, Matilda the Musical and, most recently, critically acclaimed productions of Elf Jr and Peter Pan Jr. The Wizard of Oz is an ideal opportunity for children to enjoy three days of acting, singing and dance, resulting in a performance on stage for parents on day three. Workshops will be run in Kingston on Wednesday 2 to Friday 4 August and in Twickenham on Wednesday 16 to Friday 18 August. Each day lasts from 9.30am to 4pm and the workshop costs £99 for 3 days. Quote discount code PT2505 when you book before 25 May and receive £19 off. This workshop will be followed by the Dramacube Christmas show which will rehearse in Kingston from September with performances at Hampton Hill Theatre in December. For more details or to book, visit www.dramacubeproductions.co.uk or email contact@dramacube.co.uk.

W ET B HE £ AN EFO N Y 19 D RE OU OF QU 25 BO F OT TH O EP M K T2 AY 50 5

Join us this summer for a 3 Day Musical Theatre Workshop Production inspired by

The Wizard of Oz Children aged 7-14yrs £99 for three days 2-4 August - Kingston 16-18 August - Twickenham

To book your place call 020 8408 0245 or email contact@dramacube.co.uk www.dramacubeproductions.co.uk DramacubeProductions

@Dramacubeshows

Dramacube

Dramacube Productions

Book by 13 June

Kingston, Surbiton & Sutton

Outstanding holiday childcare for 4-14 year olds this Summer!

From Fencing, Zorbing and Tennis to Archery, Art and Cookery... a new experience every day!

0330 111 7077 Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

www.ultimateactivity.co.uk Book by the day or week - see online for dates 15 May - 2 July 17

Camps, Courses and Classes

Follow the Yellow Brick Road to Dramacube

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary across May, June and July

June

Make History Workshops, Kensington Palace, W8 4PX

Kew Midsummer Fete, Kew Green, Kew, TW9 3AP

11am-6pm. The fete has become a much-loved local highlight, offering a fun family day out in the lovely setting of Kew Green. There will be over 100 stalls, Reuben Bond’s Vintage Fairground, a Dog Show, the infamous Kew Fete Tug of War and lots more. For more information visit www. kewfete.org

Feeling Colourful!, Kingston Museum, Kingston-uponThames, KT1 2PS

Carnival Mas Camp, C.A.F.E, Coldharbour Lane, SW9 8RU

11am-2.30pm. An invitation for local and not so local communities to take part in costume making for this year’s Notting Hill Carnival. Little ones will be supplied with take away paper masks, stickers and colouring pencils. For more information visit www. sunshineiarts.co.uk

Family Activities, Tower Bridge Exhibition, SE1 2UP

10.30am-4pm. Join in some fun, hands on family activities at Tower Bridge. Admission charges apply. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.towerbridge.org.uk

Sat 17 – Sun 18 Jun

Georgian Cookery Demonstrations, Kew Gardens, Richmond, TW9 3AB

11am-5pm. Join the cooks at the Royal Kitchens at Kew as they prepare food for King George III and his family in these drop-in sessions. Taking place in the Georgian kitchens near Kew Palace. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www.kew.org

Waterloo Weekend, Apsley House, W1J 7NT

11am-4pm. Join in to commemorate the Battle of Waterloo anniversary weekend and re-live the drama and grandeur of the Napoleonic War. Tickets will be available to purchase at the event site on the day. For more information visit www.englishheritage.org.uk

Open Garden Squares Weekend, Various Locations

Feed your curiosity with over 230 gardens to explore in this magical two-day event. Gardens range from the historic and traditional to the new and experimental and can be discovered across 27 London boroughs. Charges apply. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.opensquares.org

15 May - 2 July 17

Sun 18 Jun

Church Street Goes Green Summer Fair, Twickenham, TW1

11am-5pm. Church Street will be covered in grass and there will be a multitude of stalls selling plants, produce, herbs, crafts and street food plus children’s entertainment and live music. For more information visit www.facebook.com/ events/1634727966854749

The Queen of Drury Lane, Dulwich Picture Gallery, SE21 7AD

2.30pm and 3.10pm. Explore the stories behind the permanent collection and temporary exhibitions in interactive sessions with storyteller Fiona Alderton. Taking place in the Gallery Mausoleum. Ages 3+. Buy your ticket on the day. For more information visit www. dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk

Fathers’ Day, Ham House and Garden, Richmond, TW10 7RS

10am-5pm. Join in for lots of fun and activities and see if you can complete the Fathers’ Day challenge. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/ham-house-and-garden

Sat 24 Jun

The Abbeville Fete, Abbeville Road, SW4 9JX

12noon-4pm. With 80+ street stalls, a street BBQ and bar, live music throughout the day, a dedicated Kids Zone and even a dog show, the Abbeville Fete has fun and activities for all the family. For more information visit www.abbevillefete. com

Mortlake Summer Fair, The Brewery Green, Mortlake, SW14 8EA

12noon-4pm. There will be lots of family fun as usual and lots of performances by local children’s groups, and a great choice of food,

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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drink, activities and entertainment. For more information visit www. eastsheenvillage.co.uk

Sun 25 Jun

Summer Garden Mobiles, Dulwich Picture Gallery, SE21 7AD

2-4pm. Create colourful creatures and critters to hang from a spiral mobile. Taking place in the Dulwich Pavilion. Ages 3+. Buy your ticket on the day. For more information visit www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk

July

a hidden, nocturnal world in urban south London. Meet inside the Crescent Wood Road gate. For more information visit www.wildlondon. org.uk

Fri 7 – Sun 9 Jul

New Music Biennial, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX

The festival is presented in association with the PRS for Music Foundation and features music across all genres, from classical and chamber opera to jazz, folk and electronic. Enjoy workshops, interactive elements and more. To view the full programme of events visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

Fri 7 – Sun 16 Jul

Kingston’s International Youth Arts Festival, Various Locations

Visit the UK’s biggest multi-arts festival showcasing rising stars under 26. For more information and to view the full programme of event visit www.iyafestival.org.uk

Sat 8 – Sun 9 Jul

Open Weekend, Brixton Windmill, SW2 5EU

Sat 1 Jul

National Meadows Day, Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD

11am-3pm. Have a go at sweeping the meadow with nets in search of invertebrates and make your own meadow craft to take home. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/morden-hall-park

The Blythe Hill Fields Summer Festival, SE23 1SP

12noon-5pm. An annual community Festival organised by the Friends of Blythe Hill Fields featuring live music, stalls, fun fair, children’s activities and a selection of world cuisine. For more information visit www. blythehillfields.org.uk

Sun 2 Jul

Shall We Dance?, Dulwich Picture Gallery, SE21 7AD

Tues 4 – Sun 9 Jul

RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show, KT8 9AU

At the height of summer, visit the grounds of Hampton Court Palace for a fabulous day out. Enjoy activities for all the family, be inspired by stunning Show Gardens and shop for plants and smell the roses. For more information and to buy ticket visit www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-courtpalace

Fri 7 Jul

Bat, Moth and Owl Prowl, Sydenham Hill Wood, SE26 6LS

9-11pm. Join in for a guided walk to discover bats, moths and tawny owls. Using bat detectors, the site warden and volunteers will reveal

Sun 9 Jul

Read! Make! Play!, The Bright Emporium, Clapham, SW11 1SY

(Also 23 Jul) 10-11am ages 5+, 11.30-12.30pm ages 4 and under. This workshop combines drama games, creative storytelling and crafts, perfect for any budding artists, young actors and story book fans. For more information and to book visit www. thebrightemporium.com

Summertime Bunting, Dulwich Picture Gallery, SE21 7AD 2-4pm. Celebrate ‘al fresco’ living by creating detailed outdoor bunting. Taking place in the Dulwich Pavilion. Ages 3+. Buy your ticket on the day. For more information visit www. dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk

Thurs 20 – Sun 23 Jul

Open Days, The Big Cat Sanctuary, Smarden, TN27 8PJ

11am-5pm. Go along to support the conservation work at the sanctuary. Visit the cats, including lions, tigers, leopards and cheetahs and enjoy lots of family entertainment including: face painting, bouncy castle, arts and crafts and more. To buy tickets visit www. thebigcatsanctuary.org

Our next copy deadline is

16 June 2017.

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Good Work Page

Hanisga Thayalan aged 6

Mya Ketan aged 10

and Callum Offord won tickets to the Rose competitions in our Easter magazine. Gyumin Shin Records Blockbusters winners were Congratulations to the following people who won World ess Guinn Our r. on Fringe Weekend winne Theatre. Kurtis Stewart Griffiths is the lucky Bright for books n Pain from St Stephens Junior School won Lilly Edgley, Chloe Breeds and Charlie Doherty. Jasmi If you would like to see Lucie Farm. erry Blackb at s the Spring babie her school library. Reegan Price is going to help feed the meet to going your work displayed is Harris Emma ater. Bluew at out Davenport is going to have a cracking day Byrne and Tabitha Rogers. Sion eth Elizab here then just send us a were rs winne y Grann ta Gangs . Gruffalo at Chessington Hora, Sara Macey, Cason, Finley and Kayla drawing, poem, riddles, Gibby, Kerry Lethbridge, Agnieszka Chabuda, Petra m & Matthew McClelland and Riley Russell jokes or short story and Badenhorst, Leah Han, Ethen Edwards-Murfin, Graha Daisy y, rs were Luke Brook-King, Samuel Shelle won Molly Monster prizes . Paws in the Park winne we'll do our very best to a Joshu and Gray Lily ts, Rober Howe, Jasmine Norton, Lewis Beer, Niall Ray, Evie Hilton, Megan tickets won Hill e include it. Send it to: Ameli al. Festiv Park Priory the to s Haydon. Evey Ray and Laura Keeley won ticket n for the under 8's and our older etitio comp ring colou 's Annie won lan Good Work Page Thaya ga to see Adventure in Wonderland. Hanis winners and enjoy the artwork on this page Primary Times winner was Mya Ketan. Congratulations to all our

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Thank you to Bella ArthurDavis for her cute girl on the swing, Sheng for his very accurate Mega Gyarados, Matilda Flitton for her happy family group and Hugo Barra for his busy jungle scene. We love seeing your work so do please keep sending it to us.

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