Blackbird Pie 2022 February Half Term

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February half-term holiday 2022 Virtual edition across Cornwall and beyond

BlackbirdPie Blackbird Pie Cornwall’s what’s-on for families Calendar February & March 2022 What’s on at half-term Indoor play, workshops & events NHS 111 Tate St Ives Art Challenge Bicycle Project Opera for children Theatre Shows Science of the Sea at NMMC Into the Wild books review Blackbird visits Interactive family adventure trail Vouchers & offers: NMMC, page 3 Taekwon-Do Penzance, page 6 Tate St Ives, page 9 Bude Feb Fest, page 7 Bodmin Keep, page 11 Cheerleading & Zumba at Embrace, page 19

Contents Pages: 4 to 7 7 8 9 10 & 11 12 to 15 15 16 17 18 19 20

What’s on this February and March Indoor play and The Bicycle Project (continued on page 18) Daisy First Aid and Kernow Health: Dial 111 Tate St Ives half-term Art Challenge February and March calendar 2022 Opera for children & Theatre Shows Blackbird visits The Celtic Tossers and tries axe throwing Fostering in Cornwall – can you help?

NMMC Science of the Sea shows PLUSS – support for people to get back to work ‘Into the Wild’ themed books and Cheerleading kids’ classes at Embrace, Penryn Kevrenna App - Cornish stories as you walk – FREE interactive family adventure trail

Dear Readers, This issue is digital because of Omicron – both in schools and we are recovering! However, as we write, things are opening up, there are some wonderful things on over half-term and our Easter issue should be back to print & digital.

There are a fair few free activities and events and some special offers throughout the magazine, including free entry & activities at Bodmin Keep, ‘pay once get in for a year’ at NMMC, and £5 locals’ annual pass at Tate St Ives.

Delve into science this half term at the NMMC (page 17) with exciting activities & demos by Bristol Explorer Dome’s live, expert-led science shows; explore quirky science at Discovering42 in Bodmin; make squishy circuit monsters at PK Porthcurno and LEGO spy robots at Bude Feb Fest; and enjoy Coppice’s quirky Science Adventures show at the Poly, Falmouth.

Keeping fit can be really fun: there are lots of cycling opportunities with The Bicycle Project (page 7 & 18), outdoor challenges at Pendennis Castle; Taekwon-do in Penzance (voucher page 6); axe-throwing with the Celtic Tossers (page 15); swimming like a fish with Swim Academy for babies; cheerleading & Zumba classes (page 19); and a FREE interactive family adventure trail from Geevor (page 20) Theatre is back! From Plymouth to St Ives you can find a wealth of amazing theatre shows for families, see pages 12 to 15.

Have a great half-term, Vanessa, Simon and the Blackbird

We believe that all details are correct at the time of going to print but cannot accept any responsibility for mistakes or omissions. We try to ensure all events featured will be enjoyed by younger children but in some instances we cannot test this and have to rely on the opinions of the organisers. When you have finished with this magazine please pass it on to a friend or recycle it.

Please mention us to advertisers 2

Contact us at: “Blackbird Pie”, Flying Pig Publishing, 3 Basset Place, Falmouth, Cornwall. TR11 2SS  post@blackbirdpie.co.uk  01326 314242 www.blackbirdpie.co.uk

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What’s on this winter Tate St Ives see page 9 and National Maritime Museum see page 17. Theatre shows see pages 12 to 15.

FREE Half Term Fun at Bodmin Keep! Free admission and different family activities each day from 22 to 26 Feb. Find out how archaeologists search for clues to our ancient past, explore First and Second World War objects and weapons with collectors and re-enactors, learn about a career in the Army and try virtual reality parachuting and tank driving experiences with the Army outreach team. There will be prizes! Throughout half term: experience the Imperial War Museum’s unique sound installation ‘One Story, Many Voices’, which tells UK-wide stories from the Second World War and Holocaust. Cornwall’s story is by Mercedes Kemp of Wildworks, narrated by the Kernow King. Pre-booking is essential, visit www.bodminkeep.org for your FREE tickets.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan, 19 to 27 Feb: this half term, discover what the Heligan team Love about Gardens - the garden secrets, favourite views, times and spaces, and the healing powers of The Lost Gardens. Take in stories and share your own. In the ‘Love Heligan’ tent help create a collaborative art piece inspired by your love of Heligan. Explore new paths and routes that are unfamiliar and get outside to discover the signs of Spring that are nearly in sight.

Pendennis Castle, Falmouth Get fit for history this half term, 19 to 27 Feb, with the Outdoor Explorer Quest. Track down the fun-filled challenges around the site and get active in the fresh air. https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/pendennis-febhalf-term-quest2/

The Box, Plymouth’s major new museum, gallery and archive.

On the weekend of 19 & 20 Feb, and from 22 to 27 Feb: FREE ‘Creative Clay’ half term workshops from 10.30am to12.30pm & 1.30 to 3.30pm, create your landscape maps in clay inspired by the ‘Songlines: Tracking the Seven Sisters’ exhibition and its large, vibrant paintings of the Australian deserts. www.theboxplymouth.com.

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Wheal Martyn, St Austell, 21 to 25 Feb: painting, making and creating activities inspired by china clay mining in Cornwall.

Make a clay miner out of air-dry clay or paint a ceramic piece.

Book via engagementofficer@wheal-martyn.com please mention BBP 01726 850362. British Science Week family event: 19 Mar 10.30am to 2.30pm or 1.30 to 3pm. Free with entry; STEM activities, experimenting and investigating some of the everyday science around us. Pre-book.

Lappa Valley Steam Railway, St Newlyn East (see cover) have a wonderful new lakeside café and multi-level soft play area with play zones for under-fives and for 5 to 12s. Take the charming little steam train to East Wheal Rose where children can let off steam at The Engine Shed. Lappa Valley is open Weds to Sun to 25 March and daily for half term: 16 to 27 Feb.

Falmouth Art Gallery, Falmouth: 29 January to 26 March, ‘The Art of Animation’ Exhibition Free. From scribble to screen this exhibition goes behind the scenes of animation production bringing together work from behind such films as The Gruffalo, The Tiger Who Came to Tea, Mr Bean, The Snail and the Whale and Shaun the Sheep. See the inner workings of the production process, get involved with workshops and learn how to make your own animated film. 01326 313863 http://www.falmouthartgallery.com/Gallery/Home Falmouth Cultural Services: Baby Paint, Baby Jam and Little Fingers sessions are at the Dracaena Centre and Gyllyngdune Gardens in termtime. During the school holidays there are free family art workshops every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at Gyllyngdune Gardens https://open.falculture.org/ The Cornwall Garden Society’s Spring Flower Show 2 & 3 April from 10am to 5pm, a celebration of Cornwall’s early spring at The Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge. Under 16 years are free entry, Early Bird £13.50 or £15 on the Gate. 07743 164434 http://www.cornwallgardensociety.org.uk/spring-flower-show Mark’s Ark is a must for children’s parties, suitable for all ages, not forgetting the adults. A fantastic, unique experience, interactive, fact filled, hands-on encounter brining the animals to you.

Teachers, Mark’s Ark provides an array of topics to compliment your classwork. A great opportunity for the children to have a safe encounter, reasonably priced and fully insured. For prices and availability contact Mark. 07761810900, Email: markwiles3@aol.com marks-ark.co.uk There is always something new and exciting to discover at Newquay Zoo. Their herd of nyala antelopes has grown, with the birth of an adorable new female calf last month. Did you know armadillo means ‘little armoured one’ in Spanish? For more facts about these fantastic creatures, watch the new video now! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edNvjfh8HMY

Trebah Houseplant Extravaganza We love plants in our homes. But why? Why did we start bringing plants indoors and why did the Victorians love giant, leafy aspidistra? Does your plant make you smile more? You can: Explore the history of houseplants at Trebah and why they could improve your mental health.

Enter the ‘I love my houseplant because…’ competition to win £150 worth of plants. Ask the Trebah plant experts why you’ve got droopy leaves. Walk through the life of a houseplant at a

The Gems of the Jungle section is like a south-east Asian jungle with beautiful songbirds flying around you and the Tropical House is home to fascinating creepy-crawlies, slithery snakes, beautiful birds and Roxy and Hadar the two-toed sleepy sloths. There are also an outdoor play area, Tarzan Trail and Secret and Oriental Gardens.

Dinosaur Quiz Trail at Paradise Park, Hayle. Explore the grounds on a dinosaur expedition (until 31 March). Search for dinosaurs and their eggs and answer the quiz questions for your Paradise Park Professor of Palaeontology certificate. Enjoy seeing wonderful wildlife with over 1,200 birds including penguins, macaws, toucans, flamingos; Red Pandas and otters; and domestic animals in Pet’s Corner. Great play in the outdoor ‘Paradise Island’ plus the huge indoor JungleBarn Play Centre. Book in advance on https://paradisepark.org.uk/plan-your-visit/admission-prices/

talk by indoor plant specialist Mary Jago. Have your Victorian photograph taken. Take part in the Aspidistra Sassy-Selfie trail and Horticultural Happenings!

Book: trebah-garden.co.uk/events

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Eden Project, the glittering ice rink is open right through until 27 February 2022. (Additional cost applies skating), pre-book https:// www.edenproject.com/visit/book-tickets Penlee House Gallery & Museum, Penzance. FREE family activities - Arty Afternoons Saturdays 2.30 to 3.30pm; baby & parent sessions, Mondays fortnightly 10 to 11.30am; pre-schooler sessions, Tuesdays, fortnightly, 1 to 2.30pm. penleehouse.org.uk 01736 363625

Camel Creek Adventure Park, near Wadebridge, a great day out stuffed with fun and excitement, including the indoor play area at Creeky’s Playhouse, the Carousel and Wave Rider swings.

Animal lovers will love The Stables, Reptile House, Meerkat Enclosure and Pony Express. Check the website to see which rides are open.

Opening times: every Saturday and Sunday, and all February half-term. Book visits online at www.camelcreek.co.uk Discovering42 - Reimagining Reality at Narisa Hall, Priory Park, Bodmin Reimagining Reality is an innovative exhibition that will turn your world upside down! Explore the weird and wonderful quirks of science with interactive artworks crafted from waste materials.

Journey along surreal passageways leading to interactive exhibits.

This exhibition is designed to be equally engaging for children and adults. Warning: magnets, loud noises and flashing lights. Entrance +18yrs £5, 5 to 17yrs £2.50, under 5s Free www.discovering42.co.uk FB: @discovering42 Insta: @discovering_42 Pop Up PK, Museum of Global Communications, PK Porthcurno. A fascinating child-friendly museum to explore. Tuesday 22 & Thursday 24 Feb: half-term fun inspired by the communication maps in the PK collection; design your own map and learn how to paint onto silk fabric using a variety of vibrant colours, pipettes and tubes. 1 to 3pm; FREE, just drop in to the Clore Learning Space at PK. Saturday 19 Feb: Squishy Circuits STEAM Explorers session, a morning of hands-on making activities for 7- to 12-year-olds.

10.30am to 12noon. Did you know electricity can travel through dough? Come along, find out how, design and build a squishy circuit – or invent a bug-eyed monster with light up eyes! Meet at the Clore Learning Space, at PK FREE to attend, no booking – just turn up.

Tuesday 6-7 pm (5-11 years) Tuesday 7-8 pm (11 years +)

Mounts Bay Academy Heamoor TR18 3FD

Dairyland Farm Park, near Newquay. 19 to 27 Feb: Teddy Bears picnic and all the following are included with entry: find the bears quiz - hunt for the bears around the park, fun bear craft activities, Bull Pen soft play centre, meet the animals in the hay barn, pat-a-pet, bug zone, flying fox zip wires, Cannon Bull, Pedal Town. Additional activities available to book on-site: Bear Hunt Tractor Ride £3, Pony Rides £3 (sorry no Bear Rides)! Build your own Bear: £12 includes bear of your choice, stuffing, heart, and birth certificate or £20 includes all the above plus bag and outfit of your choice. Small group activities: Meerkat Experience, Pony Express.

Island Light Festival ’22: A Wider World Hosted by ARTiculate, this FREE two-week illuminated community festival brings light and warmth to the darkest time of year on the Isles of Scilly. 14 to 26 Feb, Week 1: School Project Week, Five Islands Academy.

Week Two: community music and making workshops in various venues. 26 Feb Final processive event 6.30pm.

07966 862 630 www.articulatecollective.com and Facebook

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The Cornwall Bicycle Project CIC This exciting new Community Interest Company was formed in July 2020. Their aim is to provide a place where every child in Cornwall can discover their individual potential on a bike.

Indoor Play

Raze the Roof soft play, virtual reality & laser tag arena, Penryn. Huge, newly made-over & well-designed indoor play area including a vertical drop slide, four lane astro slide, bash bags, rollers and rope walks, plus loads for toddlers. Perfect for birthday parties or just for fun days out. RazeVR has virtual reality games for all ages, and for parties. 01326 377481 Email: hello@razevr.fun https://www.razevr.fun/book/

Profits from the activities go back into the project so they can put on community events, provide coaching sessions, cycling equipment & experiences, with a particular focus on reaching those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The project is run by a group of professionals with backgrounds in business, education, and sport, many working as volunteers.

Don’t have a bike? Not a problem, they have a fleet they can lend you. Haven’t ridden a bike in ages or never have? They have adults and children’s beginners’ coaching and rides. Don’t have spare pennies? The clubs aren’t expensive and fully funded places and activities are available. Qualified and experienced coaches can help riders of all ages and abilities.

The Engine Shed, at Lappa Valley Steam Railway, St Newlyn East (see cover) a wonderful new multi-level soft play area for under-fives and 5 to 12s. Open daily for half term 16 to 27 Feb and Weds to Sun to 25 March.

One2Eleven indoor soft play centre, Helston, re-opens after two years! On Saturday, 19 Feb meet Ferdi the Fox & Percy the Parrot, and art and craft activities. www.one2eleven.co.uk Jungle Jack’s, Newquay. Get unlimited access with the Annual Pass.

1,700 square feet of fun including a baby and toddler area, café, free Wi-Fi, free play & entry for under 1s. Jungle Jack’s Parties are very popular. There is a new, easier booking system on www.junglejacks. co.uk. 01637 852890 or email info@junglejacks.co.uk Wheal Play, Heartlands’ mining-themed indoor soft play centre, Pool, 0pen Thursday to Sunday, 9 to 11am, 11.30am to 1.30pm and 2 to 4pm. Local’s discount available for TR postcodes & unlimited hot drinks only £3. Free entry to the diverse gardens and outdoor adventure playground too. Birthday parties available. heartlandscornwall.com/wheal-play-booking/ Jungle Jack’s, Newquay, have 1,700 square feet of challenging climbs, rope bridge, astra-glide slide, crafty crawl tubes and a baby and toddler area. A perfect place to meet friends - well-stocked café, free Wi-Fi, free play & entry for under 1s, adult entry just £1.

01637 852890. Book your tickets via www.junglejacks.co.uk Paradise Park, Hayle. Walk the rope bridge, climb the nets, fly down the giant slides in the brilliant JungleBarn indoor play centre. Perfect for birthday parties. 01736 751020 https://paradisepark.org.uk/ junglebarn/ Dairyland Farm Park, near Newquay. Bull Pen soft play centre and 19 to 27 Feb: Teddy Bears picnic activities see What’s On article.

The Bicycle Project run regular children’s activities, holiday clubs and Bike safaris for children, regular adult rides and adult learn to ride, Learn to fix and Dr Bike sessions. See page 18 for details.

Already in January 2022 the Project has funded: serviced over 30 bikes at schools and youth centres, provided after school activities for rural schools, and launched the Life Cycle programme with local schools to ensure non riders in KS2 get the chance to learn to ride a bike confidently. www.thecornwallbicycleproject.co.uk info@thecornwallbicycleproject.co.uk FB/Instagram: The Cornwall Bicycle Project CIC On SPOND download the App

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NHS Cornwall 111 - much more than a helpline

Daisy First Aid is an award-winning paediatric first aid

company delivering classes to families, carers, schools and children.

Working closely with teachers, they have developed an easy-to-use package for schools and groups to deliver. This covers basic first aid requirements in a fun and engaging way, suitable for all educational needs.

How does NHS 111 work?

If you’re worried about an urgent medical concern, you can call 111 to speak to a fully trained adviser 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

They will ask questions to assess your symptoms and, depending on the situation, will then: •

give you self-care advice

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connect you to an experienced clinician

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book you a face-to-face appointment

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send an ambulance directly, if necessary

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direct you to the local service that can help you best

All face-to-face clinicians are experienced with providing healthcare in Cornwall with the previous Out-of-Hours GP service, and many also work in practices across the county during the day. Whilst they will not always be able to see your own GP records, a copy of the consultation will always be sent for your GP to review and add to your main records.

The clear PowerPoint includes recommendations for different Key Stages as well as videos for additional support and worksheets to use in class as well as a certificate upon completion. Daisy First Aid deliver in-person the practical elements such as CPR and choking, using manikins.

This is also available as a private class or group for children who are home-schooled.

You should call 111 if:

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You need medical help fast, but it’s not a 999 emergency.

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You don’t know who to call for medical help or you don’t have a GP to call.

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Daisy First Aid run Level 3 Paediatric First Aid qualifications too. They can come to you, or your staff can attend the regular venue classes, for 6 hours online learning followed by 6 hours practical session.

You think you need to go to A&E or another NHS urgent care service; or you require health information or reassurance about what to do next

For less urgent health needs, contact your GP or a local pharmacist.

Is the 111 service available online?

You can also get help or advice on www.111cornwall.nhs.uk using your smartphone, tablet or computer, although the online service is not available for children under 5. You can: •

answer questions about your symptoms

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find out where to go for help if you can’t see your GP or dentist, or get a call back from a nurse

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get advice on self-care

‘First Aid is so incredibly important, and everyone should have training. Nicola and Daisy First Aid have been very professional in their communication and booking’ - Wadebridge Family Hub ‘We found Nicola through other childcare providers who highly recommend the blended option for Paediatric first aid training. All the staff who took part in the course were extremely happy and pleased with the way the course was professionally run.’ - Little Lambs Childcare

Have you ever used our services?

Was it a good experience or not? We really do want to hear from you as we strive to improve and give the best service to people in Cornwall. Please email us at kernowhealthcic.khcicgovernance@nhs.net It would be good to hear from you.

Please contact Nicola to discuss details at nicola.pearce@daisyfirstaid.com or to find the next Paediatric First Aid course please visit www.daisyfirstaid.com/cornwall for dates and venues.

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Tate St Ives

Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden Sol LeWitt, Wall Drawing #1136. ARTIST ROOMS, Tate and National Galleries of Scotland © The estate of Sol LeWitt.

Photo by Joe Humphrys © Tate.

Holiday Art Challenge

© Rikard Österlund

Have you seen our colourful paint installation by American conceptual artist Sol LeWitt?

Saturday 12 – Sunday 27 February 10am to 4pm

This lively acrylic paint installation has been adapted to work with the architecture of our sea-facing gallery. See it now in this special space overlooking St Ives bay!

This half term families can take part in our Holiday Art Challenge...

More here https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-st-ives/display/artistrooms-sol-lewitt

Come to Tate St Ives and complete our Holiday Art Challenge. Pick up a challenge card and pencil, get exploring the galleries and have some fun.

Will you become a Performance Poet, Map Maker, Shape Shifter or create a Window Wonder?

Monday 21 March, 10am to 5.20pm

Enjoy our new Sketchbook, Explorer Backpack and Tate Shapes activities, or peek at paintings with our Buggy Walk.

Free with gallery admission, Tate Membership and Locals’ Pass.

Ages 18 and under are free!

Super Sunday

In celebration of International Poetry Day, we’ll be handing out free special poetry packs by Ella Frears at both Tate St Ives and The Barbara Hepworth Museum. Discover a series of poems inspired by Modern Art in St Ives.

Free with gallery admission, Tate Membership and Locals’ Pass. Ages 18 and under are free!

Get your £5 Locals’ Pass!!

Cornwall resident? Don’t forget our £5 Annual Locals’ Pass gets you unlimited year-round entry to both Tate St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden.

18 and under get free entry!

Café and Shop

It’s gallery takeover time for families!

Get creative, investigate art, be messy, play with ideas and explore the galleries at our Super Sunday family festival.

International Poetry Day

https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-st-ives/tate-st-ives-locals-pass

20 March, 11am to 3pm

Free with admission.

And ages 18 and under get their admission for free!

New! Sol LeWitt at Tate St Ives

© Rikard Österlund

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© Rikard Österlund

Our rooftop café has spectacular views over the old town of St Ives, Porthmeor Beach and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a must visit for coffee, lunch or afternoon tea. Highchairs are available on request.

Our shop offers a unique range of gifts inspired by local landscapes and artists. We stock a wide range of children’s products designed to spark a lifetime of art enjoyment.

Baby change facilities and accessible toilets Changing Places facility.

Indoor Play - Parties - Virtual Reality - Laser Tag razetheroof.co.uk

Until 26 March Regular free workshops Free entry

Performing Arts Classes available in St. Austell, Lostwithiel & Lanivet Free trials available now! www.tolifeacademy.co.uk

fb To Life Academy - Performing Arts instagram tolifeacademy

Penryn

Mondays Minnows Tales, NMMC, Falmouth, term time, drop-in 11 to 11.30am, stories, songs and rhymes for under 5s, free, adults free with annual pass Free Baby & Parent sessions, Penlee House, Penzance, fortnightly 10 to 11.30am, penleehouse.org.uk 01736 363625 Shooting Stars Cheerleading, Embrace Dance Fitness, Penryn, for 5- to 7-year-olds at 3.45pm for 45 mins; and All Stars for 8- to 11-year-olds at 4.30pm www.embracedancefitness.co.uk 01326 378730 see page 19 Monday Night Bike Club, Woody’s Bike Park in Fowey, for 5- to 16-year-olds, see page 18 Tuesdays Free Pre-schooler sessions, Penlee House, Penzance, fortnightly, 1 to 2.30pm Weds Nature Bugs, Potager Gardens, Constantine, messy play and nature-based activities for toddlers. 01326 341258 Sats Free Arty Afternoons, Penlee House, Penzance, 2.30 to 3.30pm Free Family Art Workshops, Falmouth Art Gallery, drop-in 10 am to 1pm Bike sessions, St Austell, 9.15 to 10.15am: Balance bike/learn to pedal for ages 2.5 to 6yrs & CATS for older non-riders or not confident age 6+. Skills Club, 10.30am to 12noon for age 4+ who can pedal, details page 18 until 27 Ice skating, Eden Project, family sessions on the ice rink, entry to Eden and additional cost Feb for skating, existing Locals passes can be used, pre-book https://www.edenproject.com/visit/ book-tickets Percy the Park Keeper's winter wander trail & half term fun, NT Cotehele, free with entry, 01579 351346/0, please mention BlackbirdPie to 26 Mar The Art of Animation Exhibition, Falmouth Art Gallery, Free entry & activities, get behind the scenes of animation production, workshops and learn to make your own film, 01326 313863 http://www.falmouthartgallery.com/Gallery/Home ..31 Mar Dinosaur Quiz Trail, Paradise Park, Hayle, book on paradisepark.org.uk 3 Feb Mylor Pre-school Open Day Fair, 10am to 2pm Bouncy castle, coffee & cake, Bric-a-Brac, clothing sales, games & more at Mylor Pre-school, Mylor Bridge. www.mylorpre-school.org 3 to 12 Caterpillar, Stiltskin’s Theatre, Devonport, original show for 6 months to 8-year-olds.

Feb stiltskin.org.uk 4 to 6 Feb Oi Frog & Friends! Hall for Cornwall, Truro, join Frog, Cat & Dog Live on Stage in the action-packed stage adaptation of Kes Gray and Jim Field’s bestselling books. Expect songs, puppets, laughs & rhymes 01872 262466 9 Feb Scratchworks: The Grimm Sisters, AMATA, Falmouth University, Penryn 7.30pm twisted tales with a marvellous mix of live music, singing & comedy, poisonous parents, courageous quests & a magical frog! 01326 259 349 http://amata.org.uk/ 12 to 27 Holiday Art Challenge, Tate St Ives, 10am to 4pm, see page 9, free with admission, Tate Feb Membership and £5 Annual Locals’ Pass, +ages 18 and under are free!

13 Feb Pop Princesses, Hall for Cornwall, Truro, a musical spectacular starring four fairy-tale princesses who just love to sing! With top hits, songs from films and musicals. 01872 262466 16 to 19 Gangsta Granny Live on Stage! HfC, Truro, Ben’s Granny has a secret… 01872 262466 Feb hallforcornwall.co.uk 18 to 27 Bude Feb Fest, over 30 workshops & activities, many FREE, mini beach school, night-time rock Feb Bude pool ramble & lifesaving demos; theatre shows & workshops; Lego spy robots, Sciencedipity bath bomb making; Sport & Live Music; see page 7, @visitbude 19 Feb Storytelling tours, The Triangle, Bude, from 3.30 pm Cobweb Tours to Bude. Storytellers in costume will lead you through Bude weaving together tales of Cornwall with a blend of theatre and storytelling https://www.carntocove.co.uk/ FREE Squishy Circuits STEAM Explorers session, Clore Learning Space, PK Porthcurno, for 7- to 12-year-olds, 10.30am to 12noon. design and build a squishy bug-eyed monster! no booking – just turn up 19 & 20 FREE ‘Creative Clay’ workshops, The Box, Plymouth, create landscape maps in clay inspired Feb by the ‘Songlines: Tracking the Seven Sisters’ exhibition; 10.30am to12.30pm & 1.30 to 3.30pm, see page 4 19 to 27 Love the Lost Gardens, discover what the team love about Heligan, with stories, collaborative Feb art and explore new paths through the Gardens Half-term Make and Take craft workshops & Museum Trail, NMMC Falmouth, see page 17, arty science experiments & chromatography to create colourful sea creatures, 12.30 to 3.30pm, free with entry (pay once then free for a year) Outdoor Explorer Quest, Pendennis Castle, Falmouth, track down fun-filled challenges around the site and get active in the fresh air.

https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/pendennis-feb-half-term-quest2/ Teddy Bears picnic, Dairyland Farm Park, near Newquay, free with entry - bear hunt in the park, bear craft activities, Bull Pen soft play centre. Extra: tractor ride £3, pony ride £3, build a bear: £12, see page 4

Look who’s over there?

HAVE A REALLY WILD TIME

Brilliant for kids’ parties, play groups, schools, fun days!

Tel: 07761 810900

www.marks-ark.co.uk Half-term Wild Art, NT Godolphin, make stick mobiles & 21 Feb: clay coil pots, free with entry, 19 to 27 01736 761015, please mention BlackbirdPie Feb 20 Feb Vinland: A Viking Adventure, Tolmen Centre, Constantine, a brilliant family show retelling the incredible tale of the Vikings last journey to North America brought to life through storytelling, animation and live music; 3pm. https://www.carntocove.co.uk/ 21 to 25 Science of the Sea shows with Bristol Explorer Dome’s expert science presenters, National Feb Maritime Museum Cornwall, 11am, 12noon, 2 & 3pm, see page 17 Clay workshops, Wheal Martyn, St Austell painting & making with clay, inspired by China clay mining. Book via engagementofficer@wheal-martyn.com or 01726 850362, please mention BlackbirdPie The Kiss that Missed, Minack Theatre, Porthcurno, 4pm, Knightly Tales adapted by storyteller John Brolly with new songs. £10/ under 16s half price. 01736 810181 www.minack.com 21 to 26 The Wizard of Oz, Roche Victory Hall, Roche Pantomime Players musical adventure to Oz. Feb CRBO 01726 63513 22 & 24 FREE Pop-Up PK, Clore Learning Space, PK Porthcurno, design maps inspired by the Feb communication maps in the PK collection, paint it onto silk fabric using vibrant colours, pipettes and tubes, 1 to 3pm.

22 to 25 Robinson Crusoe and the Pirates, Kidz R Us, St Ives Theatre, 2 & 6.30pm, Ooh Argh!

Feb (and Swashbuckling stuff from award-winning kidzrus.net 01736 797007 See page 14 for April dates in Apr) 22 to 26 FREE Half Term Fun, Bodmin Keep! Free admission and different family activities each day.

Feb Pre-booking essential, visit www.bodminkeep.org for your FREE tickets The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, TRP, Plymouth, the smash-hit production of C.S. Lewis’ classic, theatreroyal.com 01752 267222 22 to 27 FREE ‘Creative Clay’ workshops, The Box, Plymouth, see 19 Feb 23 & 24 The Kiss That Missed, David Melling’s delightful series of Knightly Tales adapted for the stage Feb by actor and storyteller John Brolly and The Minack Theatre. 23 Feb 3pm Launceston Town Hall. 24 Feb 3.30pm Parkhouse Centre, Bude Free https://www.carntocove.co.uk/ 24 to 26 Alice in Wonderland, Probus Village Hall, Probus Parish Players’ Pantomime out of Lockdown, Feb into Wonderland, with songs and corny jokes! CRBO 01726 63513 25 Feb Science Adventures: The Power Pickle, The Poly, Falmouth, 2 & 4pm, Coppice’s fantastical show combining science with fun adventure stories. 01326 319461 https://thepoly.org/ 26 & 27 Vinland: A Viking Adventure, details 20 Feb. 26 Feb 2pm St Endellion Church, Port Isaac Feb 07787 944935 www.endelienta.org.uk. 27 Feb 4pm Harrowbarrow & Metherell Village Hall 1 Mar Shrove Tuesday…pancakes!

The Owl Who Was Afraid of The Dark, Sir Robert Geffery’s Memorial Hall, Saltash, Clockwork Moth’s mesmerising shadow-puppet show, with a live narration & music, https://www.carntocove.co.uk 6 & 8 Mar A Real Fiction, aKa Dance Theatre Company, hyperactive mix of dance, theatre, meme and pop culture for age 7+. 6 Mar 3pm, The Tolmen Centre, Constantine & 8 Mar 7.30pm Mounts Bay Academy 8 to 12 Bedknobs and Broomsticks, TRP, Plymouth, Disney’s classic movie adapted as an exciting new Mar stage musical. theatreroyal.com 01752 267222 17 Mar Disco Inferno, Regal Theatre Redruth, 7.30pm, see page 13 19 Mar British Science Week family event, Wheal Martyn, St Austell, 10.30am to 2.30pm or 1.30 to 3pm. Free with entry, STEM activities, experimenting and investigating some of the everyday science around us. Book via engagementofficer@wheal-martyn.com or 01726 850362 please mention BlackbirdPie 19 Feb to Trebah Houseplant Extravaganza, see page 5. Book at trebah-garden.co.uk/events 2 Mar 20 Mar Super Sunday family festival, Tate St Ives, 11am to 3pm gallery takeover time for families! free with admission, ages 18 and under are free! see page 9 21 Mar International Poetry Day, Tate St Ives & Barbara Hepworth Museum, free special poetry packs by Ella Frears inspired by Modern Art in St Ives, 18s and under get free entry! see page 9 24 Mar to Pirates of the Imagination, Stiltskin’s Theatre, Devonport, swashbuckling imaginative 2 Apr adventure with puppets, colourful comic characters, and shanty singing, for pre-school children+. stiltskin.org.uk 27 Mar Mothers’ Day, BST begins One Night in Dublin, Regal Theatre Redruth, 8pm, award-winning Irish band The Wild Murphys, see page 13 10 Apr Play Opera Live, TRP, Plymouth, 3pm, lively and accessible concerts with fun facts and singalongs, meet WNO singers and orchestra. Free family activities before the concert from 1pm, see page 12, theatreroyal.com 01752 267222

photo - Khalilie Siddiqui

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Theatre Shows Theatre Royal Plymouth theatreroyal.com 01752 267222 22 to 26 Feb: Direct from London, the smash-hit production of C.S. Lewis’ classic The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is coming to Plymouth! Join Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter as they wave goodbye to wartime Britain and embark on a magical adventure in a frozen, faraway land where they meet a Faun, talking Beavers, the noble king of Narnia, Aslan, and The White Witch (pictured above).

8 to 12 Mar: Disney’s classic movie of Mary Norton’s book Bedknobs and Broomsticks makes its world premiere as an exciting new stage musical. With the original songs by the legendary Sherman Brothers (Mary Poppins, The Jungle Book, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang). The Rawlins children are evacuated from wartime London to live with trainee witch Eglantine Price. Fabulous adventures ensure with an enchanted bedknob, a bewitched broomstick and a magical flying bed!

10 Apr 3pm: Welsh National Opera is delighted to present Play Opera Live, https://youtu.be/pcrwWgtMhmM wno.org.uk/playoperalive

Presented by Tom Redmond, these lively and accessible concerts explore opera and classical music in an entertaining and interactive style, with music you’ll recognise from film, television and the stage. Tom leads you through the programme with fun facts and singalongs, introduce you to WNO singers and members of WNO Orchestra and tell you a bit more about the pieces being performed.

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Editor - You only have to look at this video link to see how much the children are enjoying it! WNO productions look wonderful and seriously entertaining.

The free family activities before the concert look and sound really good too, just turn up from 1pm.

Stiltskin’s Soapbox Children’s Theatre Devonport. stiltskin.org.uk 3 to 12 Feb: Caterpillar. Fun loving Caterpillars Bob and Bob discover food, mischief and escape from a chicken before transforming into beautiful butterflies. This original show is for 6 months up to 8-year-olds.

24 Mar to 2 Apr: Pirates of the Imagination. Join Stiltskin for a swashbuckling imaginative adventure; a visual feast using imaginative play, puppets, colourful comic characters, and shanty singing; for pre-school children and up.

Kidz R Us, St Ives Theatre, kidzrus.net 01736 797007 22 to 25 Feb (and in April), 2 & 6.30pm: Robinson Crusoe and the Pirates, buckle your swash and set sail with Robinson, Captain Seasalt and Nutty Nick into a world of adventure and hilarity. You’ll meet a host of colourful characters along the way, together with a band of marauding pirates.

AMATA, Falmouth University Penryn 01326 259 349 http://amata.org.uk/ 9 Feb 7.30pm: Scratchworks: The Grimm Sisters. You know the Brothers Grimm? The famous storytellers…or story stealers more like! The Grimm Sisters are here to set the record straight. Join them for twisted tales with a marvellous mix of live music, singing & comedy. Dive headfirst into their weird world of poisonous parents, courageous quests and a magical frog.

Roche Victory Hall, Victoria Road, Roche, St Austell CRBO 01726 63513 21 to 26 Feb: The Wizard of Oz The multi-award-winning Roche Pantomime Players adventure to Oz. Meet incredible characters, listen to superb musical numbers and see fabulous costumes.

Hall for Cornwall, Truro 01872 262466 hallforcornwall.co.uk 4 to 6 Feb: Oi Frog & Friends! Live On Stage, action-packed stage adaptation of Kes Gray and Jim Field’s bestselling books, with songs, puppets, laughs & rhymes.

The Regal Theatre, Redruth, 01209 216278

http://redruth.merlincinemas.co.uk/regal-theatre These two fabulous shows aren’t specifically designed for families, but the Regal Theatre team assure us they’re not inappropriate for children; so, enjoy a high-octane night out together with your older children or book that baby-sitter and let your hair down!

Disco Inferno 17 March, 7.30pm.

13 Feb: Pop Princesses, a musical spectacular starring four fairy-tale princesses who just love to sing! With top hits, songs from films and musicals.

16 to 19 Feb Gangsta Granny Live on Stage! It’s Friday night and Ben is staying with Granny. There will be cabbage soup, cabbage pie and cabbage cake and sooooooooo boring!

All you crazy cats… who’s ready for the funkiest Get Down In Town?

Disco Inferno is the spectacular all singing, all dancing celebration of everything D.I.S.C.O. Dance to the ultimate UK Disco tribute and sing along to favourites by Earth Wind and Fire, Barry White, Donna Summer, The Trammps. This electrifying show just screams glitter balls and good times with pitch perfect harmony, high energy, slick choreography and Disco classics such as Blame It On The Boogie, Car Wash and It’s Raining Men.

One Night in Dublin 27 March, 8pm:

What Ben doesn’t know is that Granny has a secret – and Friday nights are about to get more exciting than he could ever imagine with his very own Gangsta Granny!

The multi-award-winning Irish band The Wild Murphys will be setting up their acclaimed Murphy’s Pub for just one glorious night of high-energy Irish Music and more than a little bit of Irish Craic.

Brilliant Irish musicians playing a mix of contemporary tunes and Irish classics (like Galway Girl, Tell Me Ma, Dirty Old Town, The Irish Rover, Brown Eyed Girl, Wild Rover and Molly Malone) will have you clapping and toe-tapping all night long. The seven-piece live band is headed by lead singer Middi Murphy armed with blarney, banter and an accordion, alongside Trevor Brewis (Jimmy Nail) on drums, Tony Davis (Prelude) on keys and the BBC award-winning fiddle player Sophy Ball on fiddle.

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Probus Village Hall CRBO on 01726 63513 24 to 26 Feb: Alice in Wonderland. Probus Parish Players’ Maddest Pantomime In Cornwall. Out of Lockdown, into Wonderland! with fabulous chorus songs and jokes so corny even your Dad wouldn’t approve!

Minack Theatre, Porthcurno, 01736 810181 www.minack.com

21, 22 & 25 Feb 4pm: The Kiss that Missed (picture - above).

David Melling’s delightful picture-book series of Knightly Tales Adapted by storyteller John Brolly and The Minack with new songs. £10/ under 16s half price.

10 to 21 Apr: Hetty Feather, adapted from Jacqueline Wilson’s book

by Emma Reeves The Poly, Falmouth 01326 319461 https://thepoly.org/ 25 Feb 2 & 4pm: Science Adventures: The Power Pickle. Professor McGuffin’s ground-breaking Sub-Nuclear Optical Transmitter (S.N.O.T.) has stopped working, and it’s jeopardising a mission!

Join our intrepid scientists on an adventure like no other... Prepare to travel to the deepest depths, and soar to the highest heights!

This fantastical show will explore science with fun and accessible adventure stories.

Carn to Cove touring shows https://www.carntocove.co.uk/

Vinland: A Viking Adventure. Set sail with Freydis and her son Snorri on a Viking adventure…

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..brought to life through storytelling, animation and live music.

Join her crew of explorers as they come face to face with ghosts, monsters and wild gooseberries. Vinland retells the incredible historical tale of the Vikings last journey to North America inspired by the Viking sagas of Erik the Red and his family. A visually brilliant family show.

Blackbird Visits…

The Celtic Tossers by Joshua Talbot

Tolmen Centre, Constantine 20 Feb 3pm.

On a drizzly afternoon in Truro, we took a long-awaited trip to The Celtic Tossers- an axe-throwing target range for ages eight and above.

St Endellion Church, Port Isaac 26 Feb 2pm 07787 944935 www.endelienta. org.uk

We didn’t know what to expect at the start of our hour-long session, but were quickly given our first projectile and told to get stuck in.

The instructor, Alfie, explained to us that they start everyone off on handled star blades and eventually progress onto axes. Usually, with young throwers, it can take half an hour before the slightly heavier axes are introduced. Adults can apparently move on earlier, but it did take us a while to get into the swing of things!

27 Feb 4pm Harrowbarrow & Metherell Village Hall

The Kiss That Missed. David Melling’s delightful series of Knightly Tales adapted for the stage by actor and storyteller John Brolly and The Minack Theatre. (21, 22 & 25 February at The Minack).

5 Apr 10am & 4pm Five Islands Academy, Isles of Scilly

In Alfie’s experience, there is no telling who is going to be good when people walk through the door and it can get very competitive.

The scores remained low on both sides for our contest, as we both struggled to repetitively hit the target. Friend of the Blackbird, Jade, surprised herself, however. After thinking she wouldn’t’t be very good at all, she hit the target numerous times using the more difficult underarm technique.

aKa Dance Theatre Company – A Real Fiction, co-created with the community, for the community. A hyperactive mix of dance, theatre, meme and pop culture. for everyone aged 7+

As the hour drew to an end, with aching arms, we hung up our axes and returned to drizzly Truro, having really enjoyed our hour spent as Celtic tribesmen.

6 Mar 3pm The Tolmen Centre, Constantine

Just a short walk from the Piazza, it’s easily accessible from all of the central car parks and bus routes and, with a brand-new larger range in the centre of Plymouth too, we will definitely be visiting again for more Celtic tossing!

23 Feb 3pm Launceston Town Hall 24 Feb 3.30pm Parkhouse Centre, Bude Free

8 Mar 7.30pm Mounts Bay Academy 19 Mar 7.30pm Perranporth Memorial Hall The Owl Who Was Afraid of The Dark Barn Owlet Plop is afraid to go out in the dark. Plop’s parents coax him into facing his fears through several charming and funny encounters. Clockwork Moth’s intricate and mesmerising shadow-puppet show, with a live narrator and musicians.

1Mar Sir Robert Geffery’s Memorial Hall, Saltash

Find out more and book on theceltictossers.co.uk

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8 Tabernacle Street, Truro, (pic) 01872 857330 107-109 Mayflower St, Plymouth 01752 938062

Are you ready?

Every 20 minutes a young person comes into care and needs to be placed with a foster family in the UK. In Cornwall that means nearly 500 children and young people are in care at any given time. Cornwall Council’s Together for Families works tirelessly to help every single child in its care to thrive and reach their full potential.

Change a child’s life forever

Thinking about fostering?

There are many reasons why children need foster care - illness in the family might mean a child can’t be looked after at home for a short while, or a longer-term issue means they need care in a stable and nurturing environment for an extended period of time.

Cornwall Council’s Together for Families fostering service manager, Julie Goodwin explained: ‘We have truly amazing carers in Cornwall but the national trend suggests there are fewer new carers coming forward, so if you’ve got the time and you are ready to make a difference, we’d love to hear from you.’

Are you ready to make a difference to a child’s life by fostering?

Then go for it! Cornwall Council urgently needs foster carers from all walks of life to reflect the diversity of the children in their care, especially if you could take on a sibling group.

We’ll be with you every step of the way www.fosterincornwall.co.uk or call: 01872 323 638

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For more information visit www.fosterincornwall.co.uk or call 01872 323 638 and speak to our friendly fostering team.

This February half term Science of the Sea at National Maritime Museum Cornwall – family fun with a BANG! Science of the Sea shows with Bristol Explorer Dome: 21 to 25 February, 11am, 12noon, 2 & 3pm.

Make and Take craft workshops Chromatography Creatures: 19 to 27 February, 12.30 to 3.30pm.

This family science show is suitable for adults and children aged 5 and over, but all are welcome. Explore the science of water, the nature of atoms & molecules and how they can be solid, liquid or gas. Learn how liquid nitrogen and dry ice illustrate states of matter and investigate weird and wonderful seas of fire and ice on other worlds. Split H2O into an explosive mixture and consider hydrogen as a fuel of the future. Bring your curiosity and questions for Explorer Dome’s expert science presenters. Expect plenty of audience interaction, freezing fog, fire and BANGS!

These arty science experiments use colour and water, separating pigments to create colourful sea creatures.

Chromatography is the process scientists use to separate mixtures by letting them slowly move past each other.

In this experiment the water (a liquid) carries the pigment through and over the surface of a coffee filter (a solid) and in the process it separates the individual pigment colours.

Museum Trail: 19 to 27 February

Become a scientist and find out which sea creatures use bubbles to survive. Six lab coats have been hidden around the Museum; they contain the answers you are looking for! Find them all to collect your prize.

What else is at National Maritime Museum Cornwall?

Explore 15 galleries over five floors, jump aboard boats, climb the 100-foot Lookout Tower, go underwater in the Tidal Zone, uncover ocean adventures and survival stories and sail miniature boats on the Waterfront Boat Pool.

It’s free!

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The Science of the Sea half term activities are FREE as part of the Museum’s annual admission fee.

Pay once and get in free for a year.

The Cornwall Bicycle Project CIC – continued from page 7

Regular children’s activities Saturday mornings 9.15 to 10.15am in St Austell: •

Balance bike/learn to pedal for ages 2.5 to 6yrs, CATS (Confidence and Technique skills) very small groups for children who are older non-riders or not confident age 6+

•

Saturday Skills Club at 10.30am to 12noon for confident young riders age 4 to 16 yrs. This is a mtb (mountain bike) club with groups of different abilities learning basic skills up to jumping and riding technical features

Monday Night Club (Starting in March) held at Woody’s Bike Park near Fowey, for 5 to 16 year-olds (Not suitable for beginner riders).

Learn skills to ride downhill/XC, race and hang out with friends on bikes in a fun social environment Young Volunteer Coaches Pathway with Brtish Cycling 14 - 18 ys.

LINK TO WEB-SITE & VIDEO https://www.thecornwallbicycleproject.co.uk/ saturday-club

Camborne / Redruth – activities coming soon (hopefully late Spring) Where would like YOU like activities? Please let the team know on info@thecornwallbicycleproject.co.uk Happy to Help? Volunteers are very welcome

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The Bicycle Project also run: Holiday clubs and Bike safaris for children Adult rides and adult learn to ride sessions Learn to fix and Dr Bike sessions www.thecornwallbicycleproject.co.uk info@thecornwallbicycleproject.co.uk FB/Instagram: The Cornwall Bicycle Project CIC On SPOND Download the App

Blackbird Reads Into The Wild by Deborah Wright

Wolf Girl

by Jo Loring-Fisher, published by Frances Lincoln When Sophy goes into her den under the table and puts on her wolf suit she feels brave and strong, but when she wears the suit to school everyone laughs at her. Back in her den she dreams about befriending real wolves and - there they are! She plays with them in the wild, when suddenly, there is an ENORMOUS BEAR. Sophy discovers she can be very brave and make friends with even the biggest bear. A lovely story about confronting fears for 3+ Circle

by Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen, published by Walker Bound in thick card, this book feels good and looks different. Circle, Square and Triangle stare out at us with big eyes that immediately attract attention. Circle suggests a game of hide and seek, and Triangle hides behind the waterfall - where he’s been told not to.

So much is conveyed just by eyes moving on a dark page, as the Shapes go into a black cave and get very scared.

Daring, challenging, and yet a fun read for 3+ The Wild Way Home

by Sophie Kirtley, published by Bloomsbury I love Michele Paver’s Wolf Brother series set in the Stone Ages, so I was delighted that The Wild Way Home is a time-slip book, taking us back to those very far away times. Charlie – cleverly we don’t discover if he/she is a boy or a girl – stumbles upon a young boy from another era. Both have sick baby siblings and gradually they begin to understand each other. Details of Stone Age life, like eating nuts and painting on cave walls, create a real world which nevertheless echoes our own. For 8+ Dark Peak

by Marcus Sedgwick, published by Oxford with Barrington Stoke On a Geography school trip, one hot summer, Porter Fox finds a deep dark chasm in the rocks called Lud’s Church. What happens next will change his life. Two of his classmates go missing and as Porter searches for Stephen, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight and the story of the Green Man are invoked. A gripping story that combines fantasy, and a fear of the unknown by a brilliant writer for older children. For 8+ The Wild Before

by Piers Torday, published by Quercus This is a prequel to Torday’s best-selling The Last Wild trilogy, begun in 2013. A story of climate change, of wildness and how the power of stories can change everything. Little-Hare, a small, insignificant animal, sets out to save Mooncalf, a legendary creature whose death would bring a terribleness to the world. A wonderful introduction to the multi-award winning Last Wild series. For 9+ Utterly Dark and the Face of the Deep

by Philip Reeve, illustrated by Paddy Connolly, published by David Fickling Philip Reeve has created another world in Wildsea, loosely based on a Hebridean island but inhabited by dragons, witches and men made of kelp. The heroine, Utterly Dark, is half sea-creature, half mortal, a kind of Selkie. For imaginative older children, this is a fantasy world which will challenge the relationship between humankind and the natural world. For 10+

Embrace Dance Fitness Kids' Classes Ever felt the lure of the Pompom? Do your kids long for a high-energy, uber-fun team sport where they tumble, dance, cheer out loud, and perform in a team? Cheerleading could be perfect!

Jump, stunt and flip with this incredible exercise which increases flexibility, balance, endurance, and is really fun. The class involves a mixture of strength exercises, dance, beginners’ gymnastics, and working as a team to learn routines. There will, of course, be pompoms!

The classes on Monday afternoons - Embrace Shooting Stars for 5to 7-year-olds at 3.45pm for 45 mins; and Embrace All Stars for 8- to 11-year-olds at 4.30pm for 45 mins.

The 6-week course is £25, or book for the first couple of weeks at £5 per session to be sure your children like the class.

Book through www.embracedancefitness.co.uk 01326 378730 email hello@embracedancefitness.co.uk

Other children’s classes at Embrace Princess Playtime for 4- to 6-year-olds Drama Club for 7- to 11-year-olds Hip Hop for 5- to 11-year-olds Kids yoga coming soon. £5 per session, and sibling discounts available.

Kids membership is £25 per month for unlimited children’s classes (excluding cheerleading, though with the child members’ discount the cheerleading 6-week course is £12.50) Kids classes follow the school half term weeks and run for 6 weeks.

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Cornish Mining stories brought to life as you walk along!

Cousin Jack’s theatre company has developed a FREE, interactive outdoor family adventure trail with Cornish tech firm Data Duopoly, bringing real-life local stories to life on the Tin Coast.

Kevrenna is a 40min circular walk between Geevor and Levant which starts from Geevor’s car park. Using GPS and gamification, users follow directional arrows to unlock micro-films (around 1 minute) when certain points are reached along the trail. Performed by well-known local actors, these short films feature stories that bring the visitors current location to life. After each clip, families will have to answer a question or take a nature photo to win a golden bezant.

Kevrenna adventurers must collect fifteen golden bezants by the time they get back to the Geevor mine car park.

The interactive trail can be accessed via the Tin Coast app, XplorTINCOAST. Just download the app from tincoast.co.uk or there is signage around the Tin Coast featuring a QR code, advising visitors to download the app.

The exciting, gamified trail is for families with children aged 5-11. https://www.cousinjacks.org/kevrenna www.dataduopoly.com