TermTimes 160 by Dimension6000

AGE 4 SEE P

Issue 160 – November to January 2024

FAMILY TICKETS FOR DAYS OUT TWO GREAT BOOK GIVEAWAYS WIN A NICKWATCH DAY TRIPPERS LONDON EXPLORED OUR GUIDE TO A MAGICAL CHRISTMAS WHY HANDWRITING MATTERS

Covering Cambridge, Fenland, Huntingdon, Oundle, Peterborough, Spalding, South Kesteven, Wisbech and more

HICKS FAMILY MARTIAL ARTS TWO WEEKS

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3-4 yrs 5-11 yrs 07974 196 256 | UNIT 4, VICARAGE FARM ROAD, FENGATE, PETERBOROUGH PE1 5TP CLASSES ALSO AT EYE COMMUNITY CENTRE, MANOR FARM, 70 HIGH ST, EYE, PETERBOROUGH PE6 7UY | WWW.HICKSKARATE.CO.UK

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Welcome Back!

Whatever age you are, there’s always something truly magical about nights starting to draw in, the arrival of first frosts, and fires being lit in home hearths. It can mean only one thing: the countdown to Christmas has begun! The festive season never loses its special sparkle. And it’s even better when you can watch your own children experience the wonder too. Welcome to our Christmas issue, where we explore all the events, activities and opportunities happening in our region this

November and December. Whether it’s meeting Santa, seeing a live show - and joining in with calling ‘he’s behind you!’ we can’t wait to give them all a go! If you want to sprinkle a little extra magic over this winter season, why not enter our competitions? We have some fantastic prizes up for grabs, including the very latest books and toys. From the team here at Term Times, we wish you a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Amanda

Keepsake Christmas Gifts

Pottery Painting and Clay Activities for Children, Adults and Families

Book a 1-to-1 hand and footprint appointment to create Christmas gifts that will be treasured forever. Capture the magic of your little ones’ hands and feet, transforming them into timeless keepsakes. Book your spot today at www.doodlecrafts.co.uk

Birthday parties & adult workshops available Open Tuesday through to Sunday 10–4pm with pottery painting sessions at 10am, 12pm and 2pm Call to book 01406 258 210 or BOOK ONLINE www.doodlecrafts.co.uk

In this issue Editorial

Competition Entry

Parties at Billie's Fins...........................4 Christmas is Coming...........................6 -10 All aboard the Santa Express..........13 Learn Karate with Hicks....................14 Going Green.............................................14 Competition Winners........................14 Panto Comes to Life at the Key.....16 The Importance of Handwriting...19 Unique London Explored..................20 Board Games with the Dice Box...20

Competitions

Ticket to the Winter Festival..........6 Tickets to Springfields Adventure Land for February Half Term...........9 The Midnight Switch Book..............18 Copy of Super Powered Animals.. 22 Win a Nickwatch...................................22

Advertise with us Term Times distributes printed copies to parents six times a year, within over 180 local primary schools. Your business will be seen in a title read and respected for over 20 years...

Mentioning the competition you're entering, send your name, age, address, phone number and school name to Term Times, 70 Rutland Road, Stamford, Lincs PE9 1UW or via email to steven@termtimes.ltd.uk Alternatively, competitions will be posted on our website at www.termtimes.ltd.uk Please ask your parents’ permission before entering via the internet. All winners will be picked at random and Term Times' decision is final.

DRAMA & SINGING LESSONS OF DISTINCTION

Contact us Publisher: Steven Beacham Editor: Amanda Stacey T: 01780 757731 E: steven@termtimes.ltd.uk 70 Rutland Road, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 1UW

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For options available, please contact the team on 01780 757731 or email steven@termtimes.ltd.uk

PUBLICATION LAYOUTS | IT SUPPORT WEB DEVELOPMENT | BRANDING

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FOR CHILDREN AGED 4-18

Singing & acting together encourages: positive emotion social connection empathy Our small class sizes allow children to: make friends easily receive individual attention

confidence

www.dimension6000.com Term Times/Term Times Ltd are independently published and are trading styles of 12th Man Services and Solutions Ltd. Distributed free throughout primary schools in your area. Its aims are to inform families and children of current education issues, forthcoming events, places to visit, attractions etc. Every care is taken to ensure that the information in the magazine is correct at the time of going to press. However, please check opening times/entry fees etc., before setting out on a journey. We also aim to give teachers, parents and children, the opportunity to participate in the content of Term Times. Term Times does not intend to publish any racist, sexist or political matters, nor carry out editorial or advertising that may be considered to be offensive to families. Opinions expressed by contributors/advertisers are not necessarily those of Term Times or the schools that distribute it. The publishers cannot be held responsible for any erroneous or misleading claims or comments made by any contributor/advertiser. Competition winners will have their details shared with the competition supplier for purposes of fulfilling delivery/provision of the prize. Details of the winners will sometimes be published in a subsequent issue and by entering the competition you grant Term Times permission to publish these. Our thanks go to the schools for their assistance in distributing the magazine, and for their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank the advertisers who have supported this publication and made it possible. Please support them where you can.

STANGROUND | WERRINGTON | ORTON

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BILLIE'S FINS PROMOTION

New Party Packages at Billie’s Fins If you are looking to celebrate a birthday, Billie’s Fins private swim school is now offering exclusive hire with themed packages available. For groups of ten or more you can make a splash for £15 pp and they will have a wonderful time in the water.

SEN and Disability Swimming SEN and Disability swimming is fully catered for with qualified teachers, separate changing facilities as well as a hoist to help swimmers with limited mobility. The new hoist has opened the benefits of swimming to even more adults and children with limited mobility. As the pool runs at 33° it is perfect for anyone who is rehabilitating, and for individuals that need a warmer pool.

• Lessons Run 7 Days per Week • Baby Swim • Private and Group Lessons • Fitness Classes (16+) • SEN and Disability Swimming • Adult One-to-One Lessons • Two Teachers per Class in the Pool

Swimming lessons give youngsters confidence in the water and in their everyday life and Billie’s Fins already provides this for over 1400 swimmers each week.

There is now more opportunity for the youngest swimmers to enjoy their facilities too with the new Baby Swim (from 3+ months) and Toddler Swim classes in Orton. Starting Sunday 14 January, you can now book in at Pinchbeck, Eye, Orton, and Boston.

Small class sizes and the pool being heated to a comfortable 33° means everyone can be at ease in the water, improve or even learn to compete with the help of expert instructors, with one-to-one tutoring also available.

For those who want to learn to swim Billie’s Fins is a professional, happy, and safe place where swimmers of all ages can flourish. The swim school runs at four locations, their own pool in Pinchbeck which has been purpose built, Eye C of E Primary School, Orton and in Boston.

The pool can now be hired for parties as well as for groups and schools for lessons. Fitness classes and evening lane swimming sessions are also available.

To book please send all enquiries via email to: grouplessons@billiesfins.com or privatelessons@billiesfins.com www.billiesfins.com | FACEBOOK /BilliesFinsSwimSchool | instagram /Billiesfinsswimschool

GLOW IN THE DARK MINI GOLF BIRTHDAY PACKAGES STARTING FROM £6 PER CHILD TO INCLUDE GOLF ONLY, WITH OTHER OPTIONS ALSO AVAILABLE FOR GOLF, DRINKS, PIZZA AND DARTS Please enquire at info@glogolf.co.uk

EAT • DRINK • PLAY BOOK NOW From £20 per lane, 12 people per lane

01733 215 683 www.glogolf.co.uk /Glo Golf Peterborough /@glogolfpeterborough 1st Floor, Wentworth Street, Peterborough PE1 1DH 4

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Christmas is Coming! It’s the most wonderful time of the year. This festive season, make the most of family time by experiencing some of the region’s best attractions and seasonal events. Victoria Jane as Dorothy, Katie Paine as Wicked Witch Of The West, Edward Simpson as the Cowardly Lion, George Dee as The Wizard and Alex Walton as Toto. As always, talented local performers will star alongside the principal cast.

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Over the years, the magical tale of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz has captured the imagination of an audience of millions - and now it’s being given the Cresset pantomime treatment! The Cresset and Stuart Morrison’s Second Star Productions are delighted to present their pantomime for 2023.

It’s a special 45th anniversary year for the Cresset, so a lovely time for Cheryl to return to her hometown. Cheryl says: “I grew up here from 8 to 18 in Bretton and I was one of the first pupils when Bretton Woods Community School was built. It’s lovely to come back – probably half the audience will be people I went to school with bringing their own children!"

When talking about The Cresset, she says: “It’s brilliant because I can remember this being built. I can’t wait to see the audience and I’m in the place that Headlining this year’s cast is the fabulous Cheryl used to be my sports hall, it’s bizarre. I’d love it to be Fergison as the Good Witch Glinda. Star of both stage and screen, Cheryl has appeared in numerous full to the rafters.” TV shows, but is probably best known as the much- The star-studded cast also includes David McClelland as the Tin Man, Andrew Crawford as the Scarecrow, loved character of Heather Trott in Eastenders. Join Dorothy and Toto on their journey to Oz, meeting some familiar friends along the way!

Meet Dick Whittington and his Cat

The Wonderful Wizard Of Oz runs at The Cresset Theatre in Peterborough from 14-31 December. Tickets are priced from £16.50 with group offers available. Book through the Box Office on 01733 265705 or online at www.cresset.co.uk

Nene Park Trust is bringing its Magical Winter Festival to Ferry Meadows from the 1-24 December. Visitors can take a stroll through a beautifully lit woodland, with illuminated willow creatures. Plenty of magical moments will be woven into the journey, to surprise and delight visitors. This will lead onto an enchanted forest where visitors will encounter performers from Eastern School of Performing Arts and an audio visual installation by Syntax Poetry Collective members (Mark Grist, Charley Genever, Lauren Kendrick and Sandy Wardrop) featuring brand-new poems inspired by their favourite forest creatures.

This year’s fairytale pantomime at the Alive Corn Exchange Theatre, in Kings Lynn, will take the whole family on a magical journey. Running from 8-31 December 2023, tickets are priced from £18.

The trail will lead to a unique travelling cinema provided by The Moving Cinema and supported by Gateway Film Festival, showing the much-loved Christmas classic ‘The Snowman (U)’. Traditional fairground stalls and festive food and drink by Meadow Brown will add to the experience, along with Ferry Meadows’ pop-up Christmas shop.

The cast includes Scott Cripps as Idle Jack (who made his West End debut in the original cast of Doctor Dolittle at the Hammersmith Apollo Theatre), Alex Wadham (nominated ‘Best Actor in a New Production of a Musical’ at the 2018 BroadwayWorld UK Awards), as Sarah The Cook, Laura Pigott as Dick Whittington, Daisy Fitzgerald as The Cat, and Andrew Piper as King Rat.

Writer and Director Stuart Morrison has been producing and directing Cresset Pantomimes both alone and with Premier Pantomimes since 2008 and is thrilled to be taking a trip down the yellow brick road with this latest production. So, don’t miss the chance to book your tickets to the Emerald City this December!

Magical Winter Festival at Nene Park

Ring out the bells for a purr-fect pantomime! From the streets of London to a spectacular voyage across the seven seas, come and join Dick Whittington, his acrobatic cat and a whole host of fabulous characters - including Sarah the Cook and her wayward son Idle Jack - on the adventure of a lifetime.

Find out more and book online at www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk or call the Box Office on 01553 764864.

Victoria Jane, who plays Dorothy, adds: "It is a refreshing change for a panto not to be based around a prince and princess. The love Dorothy has for her home and adventure is something that everyone can relate to in some way - and that is very special. And who doesn't love the characters: the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion then the iconic wicked and good witches? There really is something for everyone."

Tickets are priced at just £9.50 each (free for carers and under 3s) with free parking included. Sessions start at 4pm, 5.30pm and 7pm. All ticket proceeds go towards the upkeep of Peterborough’s beautiful park. Book your tickets now at www.nenepark.org.uk/winter-festival

WIN!

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One lucky winner will receive a family ticket to the Winter Festival. Turn to p3 to see how to enter. Closing date is 16 December.

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Christmas is Coming! Check out Flag Fen for your Festive Plans Storytime with Santa Dates: 9, 10, 16, 17 and 20-23 December Times: 10.30am, 11.30am, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm Tickets: £8 child, £6.30 adult

Discover Aladdin’s Adventures During their 72 years of shows, Stamford Pantomime Players have been very successful - receiving two nominations for NODA awards in the last couple of years alone. Now, prepare to experience the wonder of their 2023 pantomime: Aladdin. The tale is perfect for everyone, young and old, to enjoy. Find out what happens when Aladdin, a poor laundry boy, falls in love with the Emperor’s daughter Jasmine. But to gain her hand in marriage he must have wealth. Abanazar, the evil Sorcerer gains the trust of Widow Twankey, Aladdin’s mother, and pretends to be his long-lost relative. Abanazar offers Aladdin all the treasure he can find if he will help him seek out the magic cave, and all they want in return is an old lamp! But once inside the cave, Aladdin can’t find the lamp and in anger Abanazer locks him in. Will Abanazer end up marrying the princess? Will good prevail over evil? Will there be a happy ending? Held from 22 December-1 January. Book your tickets now at The Corn Exchange Theatre, Broad Street, Stamford. Prices from £12. Call 01780 766455 or visit www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk

Nestled in the parkland of Flag Fen, just outside Peterborough city centre, Santa has stopped by in his Christmas grotto ready to await families. In this very special festive experience, children can be captivated by Father Christmas and his helpful elves as they take families on this joyful journey in a wonderful story time session, ending with each child taking home their very own gift. There will also be photo opportunities for families to capture the magical moment with Santa. Pre-book your tickets online: flagfen.org.uk/christmas Christmas Cookie Trail During December, families can enjoy a fun Flag Fen trail with a festive twist and yummy treat to take home. Mary Christmas has lost the Christmas Cookie recipe around Flag Fen - pick up a trail pack for £3 in the visitor centre and set off to find all the ingredients for the recipe. Each child will also have fun decorating their very own Christmas Cookie to take home with them. General admission prices apply.

Get Ready for a Genie-us Pantomime! Polka Dot Pantomimes, in association with the Guildhall Arts Centre in Grantham, present Aladdin - a classic story for all the family. This year’s spectacular pantomime runs from 2 December 2023 to 7 January.

Experience the Pantomime Cinderella at The Core at Corby Cube

The show promises a stunning set, dazzling costumes and some special Christmas magic. Be sure to look out for the amazing flying magic carpet!

This Christmas, The Core will play host to the most lavish and larger than life royal ball of them all, as the Corby venue teams up with awardwinning Little Wolf Entertainment to present the side-splittingly hilarious pantomime, Cinderella!

There are discounts for schools, family tickets and party bookings. For tickets, call the box office on 01476 406158 or book online at www.guildhallartscentre.com

There’s a Monster in Your Show The Who’s in Your Book? series makes its debut as a brand-new musical show. Expect plenty of fun for your littlest ones as their favourite characters come to life in a show that is packed full of comedy, chaos and a little bit of magic too. The show will play at Stamford Arts Centre on the 28 and 29 November as part of a major UK tour. Based on the best-selling picture book by Tom Fletcher and Greg Abbott, this high-energy 50-minute adventure has been adapted for the stage by Zoe Bourn, directed by Miranda Larson, and presented by MEI Theatrical. Find out more at www.monsterinyourshow.com or www.stamfordartscentre.com 8

Doomed to drudgery by her wicked stepmother and spiteful stepsisters, Cinderella dreams of escape and romance. Meanwhile King Colin of Corby is making plans for a royal ball. It’s going to take all the magic her Fairy Godmother can muster to whisk Cinders from pantry to palace by pumpkin. But with her stepsisters digging their ugly heels in, it’s not an easy ride to happy ever after. Featuring sparkling sets, fabulous frocks, seriously silly slapstick and not one, but two outrageous dames, Cinderella promises to be an unmissable treat for the whole family to enjoy. Cinderella takes place at The Core at Corby Cube from 16-31 December. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Box Office on 01536 470470 or by visiting www.thecorecorby.com. *A charge of £1.50 per transaction applies to telephone and website bookings of £15 and over, it does not apply in person or to Friends, Groups and Disabled Patrons.

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Winter Wonderland Walk

Santa's Arctic Adventure

The Winter Wonderland Walk has become a Christmas tradition for many families and is a must-see every year at Springfields!

In the depths of The Arctic Circle, a magical fantasy journey is waiting for you. Worzals, near Wisbech, has created an immersive North Pole experience for you to venture inside and create family memories to cherish for years to come.

Take the family for a unique journey of shimmering lights through the beautiful Festival Gardens. Filled with pictureperfect moments, discover a new, longer walk this year including zones inspired by the magic of winter. This year’s Winter Wonderland Walk will be open from 3 November - 23 December. Proceeds will go to the Lincolnshire NHS Charity, supporting Johnson Community Hospital in Spalding. To book visit www.springfieldsoutlet.co.uk/events/. All tickets must be booked advance. Adults £4, Children £1, Under 1s free. Book now to avoid disappointment.

You’ll receive a warm welcome from Diggory the charming but silly elf. Then visit Mother Christmas’ cosy kitchen and decorate Father Christmas’ favourite midnight snack, delicious gingerbread. Discover Santa’s Village and have a ride on Zippity’s Electric Tractor Track, refuel at Mount Frites Snack Bar or Bertha’s Coffee & Creamery. Browse beautiful Christmas decorations, toys, giftware and pick ‘n’ mix in the Elf Bazaar. Time to visit Poet’s study for an enchanting story. Poet is the oldest and wisest of all of Father Christmas’ elves and she is thrilled to greet the children and tell them all about the adventures of the elves as they pass her study on the way to visit Father Christmas. This magical experience culminates in a visit to the cosy log cabin home of Father Christmas, who will present the children with their very own Pick ‘n’ Mix treat bag, plus a special gift to take home and keep. Available from 1-24 December. Visit worzals.com to book tickets.

Christmas at Springfields Adventure Land

Meet Father Christmas at Church Farm

Experience the magic of the festive season at Springfields Adventure Land. Savour a delightful evening and a meal with jolly old St. Nick himself on Friday 22 December. Visit Santa in his enchanting Christmas Grotto during December and receive a special gift. Don't miss Floodlit Golf, an open-air winter experience to enjoy the twilight evenings with family and friends. With activities like reindeer food hunting, Christmas scavenger hunts, and letter writing to Santa, there's plenty of fun to be had.

Head to Church Farm, in Stow Bardolph, for a magical Christmas experience.

Book tickets at springfieldsadventureland.co.uk

Available 10am-5pm between 30 November and 17 December (Thursday-Sunday) and December 19-23 (open daily).

WIN!

Win a Family Ticket to Springfields Adventure Land for February 2024 Half Term, answer the following question… Name an activity taking place at Adventure Land over December. To enter see page 3. Closing date is 21 December.

You can enjoy nativity scenes with real animals, a Christmas Gift Shop and Mini Market, delicious homemade cakes and lunches. There will also be Indoor Treehouse Play and plenty of activities to choose from.

Tickets must be booked online at www.churchfarmstowbardolph.co.uk

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Christmas is Coming! Meet Santa at Skylark Have a magical Santa's Grotto experience at Skylark! Enjoy all the festive activities - such as singing with elves, making reindeer food, delicious gingerbread decorating and more - before you visit Santa. After your visit to Father Christmas himself, you can either Make-A-Bear or choose a toy from his toy shop, all included in the price! Head to Skylark on 25 and 26 November, or 2, 3, 9, 10 and 16-24 December to join in the seasonal fun. For more information, visit www.skylark-events.co.uk/santas-grotto/

Swan feeds at WWT Welney Experience a winter swan feed from the comfort of a centrally-heated hide at Welney Wetland Centre. As they wait for the guide to appear, the swans and ducks will line-up in anticipation. Then the live commentary begins and, after an introduction to the reserve, the guide will make their way out to feed the birds. Watch a serene lagoon turn into a hive of activity!

Christmas Buddy Bear Workshops at Safari Adventure Play Come and create some unforgettable Christmas memories at Safari Adventure Play’s Teddy-riffic event, which will be full of festive fun, crafts and buddy bear magic! Enjoy one hour of crafts including reindeer food making, gingerbread crafting, and writing a letter to Santa. Your little ones also get to choose and make their very own limited edition 16" Buddy to take home with them. You will also receive a digital photo for lasting memories. This will be followed by two hours of play in one of the largest indoor play venues in East England, all included in the price. Adult entry is £5.95 with a complimentary mince pie and hot drink included. The workshops take place on 17, 21 and 22 December. Reserve your spaces at www.safariplay.co.uk/peterborough/events/

Christmas at Big Sky Head to the Big Sky soft play and party centre in Peterborough for a range of fantastic Christmas celebrations.

Running from 1 November 2023 through to 29 February 2024, at 12noon and 3.30pm daily, with 6.30pm floodlit feeds on Saturdays and Sundays. Open every day, except Christmas Day. Free to members, included in admission or membership.

The annual Christmas party takes place on 15 December, where you can take part in a wide array of festive games and enjoy full use of the play centre. Meet Santa himself over a very special breakfast on 16, 17, and 20-23 December, followed by plenty of time to play.

Book online at www.wwt.org.uk

Find out further details by visiting bigsky.co.uk

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QUEENSGATE PROMOTION

! d r a o b A All

The Queensgate Santa Express is Coming to Town this Christmas! Shoppers and families will be ‘chuffed’ this year to see Queensgate Shopping Centre’s grotto return in the form of the Santa Express, plus a new experience that is out of this world, all of which launches in spectacular fashion on Saturday 18 November at 2pm. This year’s festive season promises to offer all the magic and wonder of Christmas packed with sparkling entertainment, magical activities, and happy memory moments for the whole family. Located in North Square the Santa Express has arrived from the North Pole and landed in the heart of Peterborough City Centre. The famous grotto will be home to Santa all the way up until Christmas Eve where visitors to the centre can share their festive wishes. Tickets can be purchased at: www.BookFatherChristmas. co.uk/Queensgate Under a canopy of new decorations in Queensgate, the spectacular locomotive is just part of the experience the centre is offering this year. The magic begins when the station clock strikes on the half hour. Guests will be greeted by the Seasonal Station Master and his merry elves, Pippin and Noel the train driver, and then it’s off to Platform 42 where the fun starts. The sound of festive songs ring out and the Christmas Crew help parents, guardians and children to

wish the Magic Train to work – whisper a wish and the rest will be revealed! Next, Santa’s guests will journey to the free Christmas Craft Station for a variety of activities such as creating Christmas cards and making your own 3D Polar Express Train – and of course all children are invited to write a letter to Santa. Pippin the Elf has a hidden library of books that have been left on the platform over many years in her Lost & Found Book Corner, giving children and adults a chance to enjoy some quiet time or storytelling. Finally, it’s time for a Santa Selfie in the Polar Platform Photobooth – get out those silly faces, strike a pose and take these memories home to treasure. The Light Switch On! It’s the day every child in Peterborough has been waiting for – it’s the start of Christmas and on Saturday 18 November, Queensgate will host its spectacular countdown with

Santa, and everyone is invited to join in. Hosted by PCR presenter Kev Lawrence and guests, the show starts from 10am and the countdown will take place at 2pm – with lots of fun, games and prizes to win in between. Katie Chapman, Marketing and Commercialisation Manager at Queensgate Shopping Centre, shared her excitement for this year's festivities, saying, ‘Queensgate is dedicated to bringing joy and the true spirit of Christmas to our community, and this year is no exception. Our Santa Express will transport shoppers into a magical world of wonder, and we cannot wait for everyone to join us for the holiday season.’ Tickets cost £7.50 (plus a booking fee if booked online) and can be booked at www. BookFatherChristmas.co.uk/Queensgate Quiet times are on Sundays at 10.30am to 11am. The Christmas Craft Station is located in the former Joules unit and is free for all to enjoy. No booking required.

Opening Times: Sat 18 November: 11.30am–4.30pm: Sessions: 11.30am–12pm, 12.30–1.30pm, CLOSED 1.30–2.30pm. Light switch on at 2pm. 2.30–3.30pm & 3.30–4.30pm. Sat 25 November, Saturday 2 December, Saturday 9 December, Saturday 16 December & Saturday 23 December: Sessions: 11am–12pm, 12–1pm, 1–2pm, 2–3pm & 3–4pm

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13 13

Learn Martial Arts in 2024 Why not give your child the gift of martial arts in the new year? Taking part in this fun activity will positively impact their physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing for the long-term.

Here are the winners of Term Times’ competitions

It is a gift that will continue to benefit your child throughout their lives, helping them become well-rounded individuals capable of facing any challenge that comes their way.

Having a positive impact on our local communities and environment has always mattered to us here at Term Times. That’s why we’re delighted to announce that our magazine is being printed on 100% recycled raw materials.

Not only does it instil discipline and self-control, but children learn to follow instructions, respect authority, and develop a strong work ethic. Through training, children learn to focus their minds, improving concentration and attention spans. They develop problem-solving skills and foster resilience and emotional intelligence.

Find out more: Hicks Family Martial Arts, in Peterborough, has a number of programmes available. Visit hickskarate.co.uk to book a free trial lesson or call 07974 196 256.

Sophie and Toby with their new book

The climate crisis will continue to affect our lives, our children’s lives, and the world around us - unless organisations make the change to thinking and acting sustainably. It’s important that businesses lead by example.

Martial arts provide a positive approach to physical fitness, helping your child develop strength, flexibility, coordination, and endurance. Regular training in martial arts can improve their overall health and fitness levels.

Learning self-defence will equip children with practical skills and techniques to avoid dangerous situations and defend themselves effectively, boosting their confidence and personal safety.

Jack with his new book

Term Times is Going Green!

What are the Benefits?

The safe and structured environment allows children to socialise and make new friends. They learn to work as a team, support their peers, and develop strong bonds.

Competition Winners!

We’re also reducing transportation miles, because the paper is now being produced locally from a Kings Lynn mill. We will continue to opt for environmentally-friendly choices in the future too.

Say Hello to The Online Library Did you know Peterborough Libraries have a digital library? They’ve teamed up with BorrowBox, which enables members to borrow eBooks, eAudiobooks and eMagazines for free. The great thing is that you can access it at any time and new titles are added every month. If you’re not already a member at Peterborough Libraries then all you need to do is register online for a free temporary membership or pop into one of the 10 libraries. Register online: www.peterboroughlibraries.org.uk/libraries

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THREE TO WIN! Publisher: Usborne Author: Samuel J. Halpin RRP: £7.99 Age: 9+ yrs

Welcome to Barrow. A spooky old town filled with strange birds, terrible floods and cursed by the infamous Barrow Bogwitch... When Lewis and his family move to Barrow, he doesn't think much of the stories at first. Until weird things start happening at midnight. Realising they are in grave danger, Lewis and his new friend Moira must unearth old secrets and follow clues to break the curse. But the Bogwitch is stirring again... and she has eyes everywhere. The Midnight Switch is a spooky, quirky adventure of curses and magic from the acclaimed author of The Peculiar Peggs of Riddling Wood. Win one of three copies, worth £7.99 each. For details of how to enter please head to page 3. Closing date for entries 1 Jan.

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KIP MCGRATH PROMOTION

Writing Still Rules You might think handwriting is less important in this digital age, but it remains a vital skill and Kip McGrath can help make sure your child puts pen to paper with confidence. Spelling and Handwriting in a Modern Era

of our National Curriculum. It begins by building up the strength in the hand muscles to help with writing letters which become short sentences These days the use of technology and the for younger learners. In time, writing stamina internet has changed how we use pen and improves, giving clarity with letter formation paper as texting and e-mails are the preferred and eventually becoming cursive handwriting methods for many. There are many positives for older children. These steps support children to the digital age; it allows communication to reaching the required, national expectation at be much quicker and the use of auto-correct the end of their primary years. Looking further can instil confidence in students who find writing and spelling more difficult. Of course, ahead to secondary education and GCSEs - if writing goes further than just our school years written work cannot be read clearly by an and we need these skills throughout our lives examiner, marks may well be lost. from writing shopping lists to birthday cards, How Spelling Affects our Writing taking messages to completing forms as well Spelling also has value in written work and is as in the world of work. important in meeting the expectations set at The Importance of Handwriting both primary education and beyond. Spelling From the early days in Reception right through starts as Phonics, moves onto spelling rules and in time, the use of relevant vocabulary, when to sitting SATs in Year 6; handwriting has credibility and is considered an important part used right, can really support GCSE writing.

Being able to spell words correctly makes sure that work is understood, and the context is correct - misspelt words can cause real trouble if the meaning is wrong!

Writing and Spelling at Kip McGrath Peterborough As part of our detailed resources, through comprehension, grammar skills and written tasks, writing is considered an important part of students’ learning and progress. Our qualified teachers use a range of strategies to support students with their specific needs. The use of overlearning, linked activities, and a range of skills within each session ensure that writing and spelling is given the time it needs. Extra activities with the support of homework helps embed these skills and improve confidence. All this combined with a positive approach and personalised learning for each, ensures future success.

For more information or to book a session call 01733 425 186 or visit www.kipmcgrath.co.uk

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Unique London

Explored The capital city offers an abundance of attractions to visit. Here’s our take on some of the new and different things to do in just one day.

as ‘a transformative visual audio experience’, the depiction of each continent through different seasons and animals is amazing. It is all self-guided, so you choose your own route at your own pace. Lie down, stand up, or sit on a comfortable bean bag and you will be stunned by the scale of the screens, the storylines and nature unfolding in front of you. Tickets are timed; therefore, it’s best to book before you travel. Adult tickets are £19 and children’s tickets are £15 each, with no charge for under threes. Visit www.bbcearthexperience.com for more details.

The purpose-built venue is the perfect way to enjoy the footage and music from the BBC series Seven Worlds, One Planet. Described

The 360-degree views are stunning, and many London landmarks are easily recognisable as far as Wembley Stadium, and closer along the meandering River Thames. Looking down on the power station itself we were told a whole St Paul’s Cathedral could be housed within the boiler room. It is a piece of heritage evolved to create an area perfect for families, with many events throughout the year. See www.batterseapowerstation. co.uk/events for more details. Family tickets are available for Lift 109 from £50.40. Visit the website for other options. Leake Street Arches

BBC Earth Experience David Attenborough is a popular icon for many people. A champion of nature and the environment, his BBC series have wowed us with their excellent imagery and close film work. BBC Earth Experience is located at the old Earl's Court 2 site and is easily reached by the District and Piccadilly lines to West Brompton or Earl's Court station.

The reason for our visit was not to shop but to visit www.lift109.co.uk. The gallery tells of the station’s history, purpose, and the stories of some of the people involved. Then, entering the express lift, you are taken to the base of the northwest chimney where a glass elevator slowly ascends 109 metres above ground to a viewing gallery. There was no Willy Wonka on hand to open the doors, but we felt like a Golden Ticket winner arriving at the summit.

Photo Credit: Backdrop Productions

Lift 109 Our next stop was Battersea Power Station, which has been transformed into a vibrant neighbourhood. Over 90 years old, the design itself is inspiring. Powering London with electricity for many years, it’s now the location for shops, cafés, a hotel, and many apartments.

Our last destination was the tunnels that run under Waterloo Station for something free and a little different. The graffiti artwork here is live and constantly evolving, therefore no two visits are the same. It’s an enjoyable slow walk through the tunnels taking in intriguing art. Visit www.leakestreetarches.london for details.

Hegarty Solicitors | Legal support for business, for you, for life. Our experienced and accomplished team of solicitors and legal advisors can put you, your business and your family in a strong position for the future. Established in 1974, we are a local firm with offices in Peterborough, Stamford, Oakham and Market Deeping and offer a full range of legal services for families and businesses. We are incredibly proud of the high level of service that we provide our clients. But don’t just take our word for it, our clients have rated us 5* on Trustpilot. Our lawyers are empathetic and friendly and will take the time to really listen to you and understand your needs. Whether you need help planning for the future, launching a new business, buying your next property or help with family issues, contact us today for legal support and advice you can count on.

www.hegarty.co.uk | enquiries@hegarty.co.uk | 01733 346 333

Playing Games at the Dice Box The owners of The Dice Box café in Peterborough, Dane and Becky, love nothing more than sitting and playing games with their family and friends through the dark nights. They couldn’t wait to open the café to help others enjoy the same without having to buy loads of games, and having great food and drinks on offer means you can keep gaming for longer as well! They’ve picked three family friendly party games you should keep an eye out for this Christmas… Game 1: You Can’t Say Umm We’ll start with a new addition to gaming tables this year, You Can’t Say Umm. The noisy bell, group celebrations and tongue-tied slipups make this a hilarious party game. Describe ridiculous word combos for your team to guess before the time runs out. You’re not just avoiding ‘umm’... this is a card game for adults 20

and families with loads of new challenges, like “change seats for every right answer” and “do everything in a high-pitched voice”. Game 2: Herd Mentality This modern classic is a great trivia game without needing to know anything but yourself! Ever wondered whether you’d like robot arms or robot legs? Well this game makes you choose. If you answer the same as everyone else in your ‘herd’ then you’ll win yourself some cow tokens. Great fun for ages 10+ and perfect for big family gatherings.

Using only one and two-word clues (a ‘cue’), players try to get others to guess a specific hue from the 480 colours on the board. The closer the guesses are, the more points you earn. Since everyone imagines colours differently, connecting colours and clues has never been this much fun!

Game 3: Hues and Cues

All three games are available to play at The Dice Box in Peterborough, so you can give them a try before buying them for yourself. Want to try some other games too? The team can give you some great advice on what you and your group might like.

This is a vibrant game of colourful communication where players are challenged to make connections to colours with words.

Find the Dice Box on Bridge Street in Peterborough or visit www.the-dice-box. co.uk for more details.

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600+ Board Games • Hot & Cold Food Bar, Teas & Coffees, Hot Chocolates & Milkshakes

UPCOMING COURSE DATES Paediatric 4 & 5 December 8 & 9 January

EFAW

4 December 8 & 17 January

Book Some Christmas Family Time

Find Us On Bridge Street, Peterborough PE1 1HJ Book your table now at: the-dice-box.co.uk/Peterborough-dice-box

FAW

17, 18 & 19 January

FAWR

1 & 2 February

BOOK NOW

Defibrillator training available

T: 01733 351 909 E: denise@fenlandfirstaid.co.uk

www.fenlandfirstaid.co.uk

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THREE TO WIN!

WIN A NICKWATCH! TWO TO WIN!

RRP: £16.95 Age: 7-11 yrs Publisher: Phaidon Author: Soledad Romero Mariño Illustrator: Sonia Pulido

We’ve teamed up with NickWatch, the new connected smartwatch for children aged six to nine, to give away two of their incredible new smartwatches worth £79.95 – plus a six-month subscription! Offering a wealth of entertainment based on Nickelodeon’s iconic characters like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and SpongeBob SquarePants, it features a variety of games, dances, crafts, music, safe connectivity, communication and customization – all in one must-have accessory for kids. It has eight key features helping to spark intuitive play. Parents can monitor their children’s use of the watch and, most importantly, keep track of their child’s location, via the NickWatch Caretaker App. NickWatch comes with two straps including a snazzy strap featuring famous Nickelodeon characters, and charger. New games are being released every month, along with new stickers, watch face designs, sound effects, musical instruments and watch filters. The NickWatch is available to purchase now for £79.95 on www.nickwatch.com with the linked Caretaker App downloadable on all App stores (from as little as £6.25 per month for a 2-year subscription). For details of how to enter please head to page 3. Closing date for entries 1 Jan.

Children love facts and superheroes - this beautifully illustrated hardback book combines the two. It’s inspired by books of world records, and provides fascinating facts about 22 of the most incredible animals on Earth and the superpowers they possess. Over thousands of years of evolution, certain animals have become masters of survival. They are capable of exceptional abilities, from perceiving sounds and smells that humans can’t detect, to creating powerful chemical formulas. Each animal ‘superhero’ is given a stunning visual portrait as well as superpower icons - from superstrength and vision, to superspeed and intelligence. Important key facts, such as the animals’ habitat and predators, give context to their super abilities. This book will educate and inspire animal lovers in a fun way and Term Times has three copies up for grabs, each copy worth £16.95. For details of how to enter please head to page 3. Closing date for entries 1 Jan.