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At a glance:
FACT FILE
Number of pupils 975
Pre-School Yes
Selective entry Yes
The Portsmouth Grammar School
Entry points All year groups up to Year 10 and also into Sixth Form at Year 12
Exit at age... 18
Age range 2-18 years
Key reasons to consider The Portsmouth Grammar School
The Portsmouth Grammar School want every pupil to be happy and successful. They develop a culture of lifelong learning and academic curiosity so that pupils go on to lead fulfilled, purposeful and enriching lives.
The Portsmouth Grammar School offers… …a curriculum that has been carefully designed to support pupils at every stage of their academic journey, that supports and prepares them not just during their time at school, but as they move into higher education, careers and a rapidly changing world.
The Portsmouth Grammar School excels at… …offering a personalised and supportive academic experience for pupils. As a through school from 2 to 18 years on a singe site, they have an unparalleled ability to offer continuity of educational excellence and excellent pastoral care.
The Portsmouth Grammar School is perfect for… …children that have academic curiosity and a love for learning.
Parent testimonial:
“We are very grateful for the time our child has spent at PGS. I want to thank all the teaching staff who have encouraged and supported our child. I am nothing short of amazed by their commitment and dedication to supporting him to achieve his potential.”
Future School Destinations
Approaching 90% of pupils win a place at their first or insurance choice university, including Oxbridge and they have frequent success in helping pupils secure offers for prestigious degree apprenticeship schemes with organisations such as Dyson, Rolls Royce and Unilever.
Transport links: PGS is situated in the heart of historic Portsmouth. The city is linked to motorway network by the M27 and M275. The train is a particularly popular way of coming into the city each day and the station is within a 15-minute walk of the school. They also run five home to school bus routes.
School Bus Service: covering the areas of Bishop’s Waltham, Whiteley, Corhampton, Droxford, Clanfield, Waterloovile, Hayling Island, Havant, Fareham and Portsmouth.
The School’s aim is to enable each child to achieve the best that they are able to through tailored academic support.
The Portsmouth Grammar School is loved for… …the diversity of the school community located in the heart of historic Portsmouth, just metres from the Solent. Pupils love the co-curriculum offer where they can spend time outdoors, being creative, learning and developing talents and skills at a range of clubs, on the stage and sports field.
The Portsmouth Grammar School celebrates… …being a family community united by values: curiosity, creativity, commitment, courage, compassion and collaboration.
The Portsmouth Grammar School prioritises… …supporting pupils to achieve their best academic outcome through excellent teaching and pastoral care.
Open Events
There are many opportunities to visit PGS and they are always delighted to welcome visitors to the school. Walk through the arch and experience the warm PGS welcome! To book a place, call 023 9236 0036, email admissions@ pgs.org.uk or visit www.pgs.org.uk
Pre-School & Junior School: 10 March and 28 April (9am–12pm)
Senior School & Sixth Form: 12 March, 22 April and 6 May (2.30pm-3.45pm)
Address: High Street, Old Portsmouth, PO1 2LN
How schools engage children with homework
By Zuzu Jordan
Your child’s school will understand that homework does not have to mean pages of writing or worksheets every time. In fact, varying how children record and present their learning can make homework more engaging, accessible and enjoyable for the whole family. When children are given choice and creative freedom, they are often more motivated and prouder of what they produce.
One simple and effective approach is using drawing and diagrams. Younger children or those who find writing challenging, can show their understanding through pictures, labelled drawings or storyboards. A child learning about plants might draw and label parts of a flower or design a comic strip showing the main events. This supports understanding without the pressure of long written answers.
Hands-on and practical tasks are another excellent option. Your child’s homework could involve building a model, cooking a recipe linked to maths or measuring and sorting objects at home. For example, children might create a model of a landmark, use Lego to show number problems or organise household items into groups. These activities make learning feel real and meaningful.
Using technology opens up many creative possibilities too. Children may be asked to take photos of their work instead of carrying bulky projects into school. This is especially useful for practical tasks such as baking, gardening or science experiments. A short video explaining what they did or learned can be just as valuable as written work. Older children might create a simple slideshow, record a voice note or type a short reflection. Technology also supports children who communicate better verbally than on paper.
Scrapbooks or learning journals are another flexible way to
present homework. Children can mix writing, pictures, photos, tickets and drawings all in one place. This works particularly well for topic-based homework or holiday projects and allows children to personalise their learning.
Finally, many schools do see the value of talk-based homework. Asking children to discuss a topic with an adult, interview a family member or explain what they have learned builds confidence and understanding. Parents can jot down a few notes or the child can record their ideas using a voice app.
By offering different ways to record and present homework, schools help children play to their strengths. This reduces stress at home and encourages families to see homework as a chance to explore, create and talk together rather than just complete a task.
Zuzu is a Mastery for Maths Specialist who has taught primary for eighteen years and is Director of Arnett International. For FREE resources and tips, find her on Instagram @edumate_uk
Educating for the age of AI
By Issy Butson
Most people familiar with the AI space will tell you something that’s hard to hear and equally hard to believe - AI will likely replace a very significant amount of global entry level white-collar jobs within the next five years. In the scale of our children’s lives, that’s effectively tomorrow.
As parents, we need to get our heads round the fact that the jobs that will be replaced will not be just low skilled jobs on factory lines, at cash registers or repetitive manual work.
We must also recognise that our education system is designed to train children for the world we have been used to - in other words, to teach them things that, now, technology has also mastered.
Preparing children for this future
Companies are already losing faith in education pipelines that aren’t producing adaptable, job-ready people. In their place, there is a rise in skill-based hiring and project portfolios that actually show what a person can do.
The future won’t care about qualifications. It will care whether you can think, build, solve problems, adapt and contribute in ways that a machine can’t.
Within the next ten years, the gap between what children are being trained for and what they’ll actually face in adulthood will just become too big to ignore.
So how do we guide children in a world that’s no longer structured around graduations, qualifications, employment, performance reviews, entry level roles and corporate ladders?
What do we build instead?
There is a tendency for our current education system to unintentionally stifle the qualities our children will most need in future – originality, independent thinking, risk taking and deep knowledge, rather than the broad, shallow knowledge needed to pass exams. We need to get serious about a different kind of preparation for adult life. One that accepts, fully, that the future will not reward people for what they memorised but for what they can build, navigate, initiate and solve.
Here are five real-world capabilities which form a much more deliberate and demanding kind of education.
Self-management and personal agency
In a world where job structures and set working hours are far less prevalent, your child will need to know how to manage themselves - not just their time but their energy, attention, output and emotion. These are skills most adults were never taught. Your child should start learning them now.
Deep work and independent problem-solving
Surface-level knowledge is everywhere. What matters is the ability to go deep - to focus without distraction, to stay with complexity and to work through problems that don’t have obvious answers.
Real-world skill development
Instead of ticking boxes, help your child build tangible, functional skills. Not just academic ones - practical, creative, technical and interpersonal. The kind that lead to useful output, adaptability and confidence. A lot of those skills won’t actually be needed for employment but all the good stuff they develop internally while building them will absolutely serve them well.
Relationship-building and collaboration
The most resilient people in the future will be the ones who know how to find their people, build things together and communicate across difference.
Identity development and direction-finding
In a world of almost infinite choice and no fixed paths, children are going to need a strong sense of who they are, what they care about and how to move toward it. That kind of direction doesn’t come from outside. It gets built, internally, over time. Make sure they develop that deep, strong sense. A child raised this way will build the muscles they’ll actually need in this changing world:
Motivation without any external pressure.
Adaptability when things change, because they will, over and over again.
Confidence to try things they’ve never done before. Patience to get good at something hard.
I believe we’re approaching one of the most fascinating periods of human history. But that we are woefully unprepared. So this is a call to parents who want to give their children a real head start. A call to step into this big unknown space and spend the next decade helping their children develop the resilience, confidence, adaptability and purpose that will serve them well regardless of where all this goes.
Issy Butson is the parent, home educator, blogger and podcaster Stark Raving Dad, as well as Head of Go To Market for a software company. To listen to Issy’s full podcast episode What every parent MUST know about the AI Generation, visit www.starkravingdadblog.com/what-every-parent-must-know-about-the-ai-generation
Boundless Futures at King Edward VI School
King Edward VI School (KES) a leading independent day school in Southampton, they have impressive academic results and outstanding facilities. The foundation of the school is founded by their Boundless Futures ethos - based on setting big ambitions and developing lifelong skills and confidence.
But they believe that their role as modern educators goes much further than academics alone. KES encourage pupils to be wildly ambitious for themselves in the spirit that success is theirs to define. They develop the motivation, skills and ability for students to achieve their goals... for life.
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How stories teach children to love solutions
By Sarah Tucker
We’ve trained children to love the chaos in stories, not the calm that follows. When I once asked a Year 2 class their favourite part of a story, every hand shot up for the problem part: Goldilocks breaking chairs, the wolf blowing houses down. ‘The solution’s the boring bit,’ one girl said. But real growth, in stories and in life, begins when we start solving things. Those ‘what next?’ moments can teach resilience, creativity and confidence. Solutions give children tools they can carry into maths, friendships and everyday decisions.
Flip the script
What if the solution was the most exciting part? Kids love the drama of ‘uh-oh’ but it’s time they saw the ‘what next?’ as just as fun, with problem-solving an adventure in itself. Encourage children to pause mid-story and predict solutions. Their often wild, funny or clever ideas are exactly what trains flexible thinking.
A spark from Edward de Bono
Researching Edward de Bono, the father of ‘lateral thinking,’ taught me that adults often fall into fixed patterns. But fiveyear-olds? They’re natural innovators. When de Bono asked children to improve a broken wheelbarrow, their wild ideas outshone those of CEOs and engineers. The youngest thinkers are our boldest problem-solvers, if we let them remain that way. Curiosity and play aren’t distractions from learning; they’re the engine behind original solutions. Thinking sideways strengthens their ability to approach problems with confidence and creativity.
Storytime experiment: Little Red Riding Hood
Pause the story right before the woodcutter saves the day and ask: ‘What else could Red Riding Hood do?’ You’ll get chaospoison apples and superheroes - but then, something magical: ‘She could trick the wolf!’ or ‘She could turn him vegetarian!’ Suddenly, your child isn’t just reading a story, they’re rewriting it with imagination.
Breaking the parent loop
Many children inherit their parents’ patterns: fear of failure, perfectionism, even ‘I’m just not good at maths.’ Storytelling lets children imagine new family scripts. It’s a gentle way of saying: you can rewrite more than just fairy tales. By modelling curiosity instead of frustration, parents show that every problem has
Making mistakes a playground
Children often fear getting it wrong, so they stick to what’s ‘safe.’ Stories can help them see mistakes as invitations rather than punishments. Pause a tale when a character errs and ask: ‘How could this be fixed differently?’
Encourage three or four possibilities, even absurd ones. Soon, pupils learn that failure isn’t final - it’s a springboard for creativity. Turning errors into play fosters resilient, imaginative and willing problem-solvers, able to tackle challenges both in and outside the classroom.
more than one path forward. The earlier children experience this freedom, the sooner they internalise a growth mindset that will help them both in school and life.
Solutions classroom: small wins
It doesn’t have to be a grand plot twist. Even small, everyday problems offer opportunities for children to exercise lateral thinking. When a child figures out a new way to organise their desk, solve a tricky arithmetic problem or negotiate roles in a group activity, celebrate it. These micro-moments of problemsolving build confidence and encourage risk-taking. By valuing these ‘little victories,’ we signal that solutions are as exciting as the preceding dramas. Over time, children begin to approach challenges with curiosity rather than fear.
Try this at home:
Lateral thinking doesn’t need worksheets. Ask:
‘What’s another way to see this?’
‘What would the villain say?’
‘Can you invent three solutions, even silly ones?’
At first it feels like play - but play is the training ground for flexible thinking. Before long, your child sees every problem as an invitation, not a wall.
Sarah Tucker is the author of Size Six, Size Seven and Size Eight (Cambridge Children’s Press), a trilogy of playful, illustrated chapter books helping children think creatively about problem-solving. These books are available from www.cambridgechildrensbooks.com
A quiet revolution in storytime
Beneath the laughter lies a quiet mission: to teach children that solving problems can be joyful, creative and brave. Every resolution plants a seed of agency, showing that change begins with thought, not luck. When stories honour effort over rescue, children learn to trust their own ideas. If they grow up loving solutions as much as stories, they’ll outthink us all.
And wouldn’t that be rather wonderful?
What is stimming in children?
By Usha Patel
As autism develops more awareness and acceptance in mainstream society, more different behaviours are observed and noted. Examples such as rocking, spinning, flapping hands, repetitive phrases and vocal sounds. These repetitive movements are all categorised as stimming.
Generally, stimming is not just performed by those with autism. We can all have bouts of stimming in certain situations, even those who consider themselves to have neurotypical brains.
What is stimming?
Most commonly, stimming is described as self-regulatory behaviour.
Dr Temple Grandin, who was born with autism, talks openly about stimming. She says in a YouTube clip: ‘As a child, I would spend hours dribbling sand through my hands to calm myself down because loud sounds hurt my ears. I was stimming to shut out the outside world.’ She goes on to say: ‘But the problem is, if a young child with autism is allowed to stim all the time, the brain becomes shut off from the world.
‘What you need to do is get the child into a quieter environment and help them take in information. ‘I was allowed an hour after lunch, where I could stim and veg out but I was not allowed to do that type of stuff at the dining room table. It’s okay to stim in private but if you let them (children with autism) stim for eight hours a day, they will not develop.’
Most definitions of stimming say it is a behaviour that regulates a child with autism and Dr Grandin is not refuting this claim at all. She is just saying it needs to be limited. She did not talk until she was almost four years old and it was through her mother’s determination to find ways to help her that she gained the skills of other neurotypical children.
In the 1950s, Carl H. Delacato, EdD, director of the Autistic Unit at the Centre for Neurological Rehabilitation, suggested that the stimming behaviour exhibited by autistic children was a clue to what their neurological system was deficient in. Dr Delacato was the first doctor to see stimming behaviours as a way to treat a child.
As a therapist deeply interested in functional neurology, my goal is to understand what is happening in a child’s brain and how to neutralise the surrounding environment to help, especially in situations where stimming appears to be selfharmful, such as banging one’s head on a hard wall.
Usha Patel is a Neurocognitive Therapist at Raviv Practice London. For advice on any of these issues, visit www.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk
Book online at www.theracecentre.co.uk
Tel: Chandler’s Ford 023 8026 9927
Tel: Ryde, Isle of Wight 01986 565366
Spring gardening projects children will love
By Ellie Malt
With the promise of spring all around, we don’t need science to remind us that getting hands-on in the garden is a fantastic, sensory-rich antidote to device time, which helps children reconnect with nature.
There is, actually, plenty of evidence to show how simply having access to green spaces reduces emotional dysregulation in children and teenagers. Gardening can help reduce stress, improve cognitive functioning, build self-esteem and improve physical health.¹
While the specific claim that simply touching soil is a direct ‘cure’ for mental health problems is not fully established, some studies do show associations and plausible mechanisms like serotonin release and microbiome effects.²
Keen to get them out there and digging in the dirt? The key is choosing projects and plants that suit their interests and their age while tweaking your involvement. Gardening with children isn’t about perfection. Plants will fail; seedlings may be overwatered and fairy gardens might be repeatedly rearranged. What matters is shared time, learning and the joy of watching children grow alongside their garden.
Sources: ¹ Bowler, et al., 2010; Hartig, et al., 2014; ² National Wildlife Federation, 2012.
Veggie plot
Growing food is not only biology in action but it is also a very satisfying experience. In our culture of immediate gratification, it is particularly good for teaching how rewarding a longer-term commitment can be. It can also be a great way to help younger children physically connect with where their food comes from.
Raised beds, grow bags or large containers are ideal for little gardeners. Under 5s can sow large seeds, water plants, watch for growth and taste what they harvest, with supervision. Those ages 5+ can help choose crops, plant seeds at the correct depth, label rows and maintain watering and weeding schedules. Children ages 9+ can manage a small plot independently, plan crop rotation, troubleshoot pests and take responsibility for harvesting.
PLANTS TO TRY
Under 5s: Broad beans, peas, radishes: large seeds, fastgrowing, easy to harvest.
5-8s: Lettuce, spring onions, courgettes: quick-growing, simple to care for, visually satisfying.
9-12s: Runner beans, potatoes, strawberries, tomatoes: more complex crops that teach planning, spacing and responsibility.
Sensory garden
A sensory garden involves touch, sight, smell and sound. This gentle exposure outdoors is especially helpful for those who are sensitive to textures or flavours. It instinctively appeals to children who enjoy hands-on exploration and is perfect for small spaces, containers or raised beds.
Under 5s can pat soil, water and smell herbs. Keep sessions very short and playful. Slightly older children can help choose plants, space seedlings and water on a routine. Ask them to observe and note changes.
Tweens can get involved in planning garden layout, researching pollinator-friendly plants and taking responsibility for deadheading and recording growth.
PLANTS TO TRY
Under 5s: Lamb’s ear, mint, lemon balm: soft, fragrant and safe to handle.
5-8s: Sunflowers, cosmos, lavender: colourful, easy from seed, great for observation.
Combining horticulture with imaginative play, fairy gardens are perfect for children who enjoy storytelling and craft. They work well in pots, old containers or even sheltered corners. Let the youngest children arrange the fairy figures and natural decorations. Supervise gently to protect plants. Children can talk about their ideas, explain their garden and often play collaboratively, supporting vocabulary and co-operation.
Children ages 5+ can start designing small structures, planting, watering and adding storytelling elements as the ‘fairy garden carers.’ Tweens can branch out into planning themed gardens (not necessarily fairy-themed), learn plant requirements for shade and water and build miniature structures from natural materials.
PLANTS TO TRY
Under 5s: Moss, thyme, small hardy flowers: easy to handle and ideal for arranging miniatures.
5-8s: Nasturtiums, marigolds, violas: colourful and edible, perfect for hands-on planting.
9-12s: Miniature ferns, cosmos, dwarf grasses: great for themed designs and more complex maintenance.
Fairy garden
Ellie Malt is a mum of two daughters living in Surrey.
How performing arts boosts oracy skills
Oracy – the ability to express oneself clearly and confidently – is essential for learning, communication and building relationships. Not only do music, movement, drama, poetry, storytelling and teamwork help young learners build confidence, they also increase fluency and, in our experience, result in a remarkable development in communication skills.
Developing oracy skills
Music and movement help children develop rhythm, projection and confidence. Singing explores pitch, tone and pace, while dance links movement with speech. These activities make speaking and performing enjoyable and memorable.
Drama and role-play let children step into different perspectives, practising tone, body language and improvisation. They build empathy, critical thinking and confidence in speaking to others.
Poetry strengthens fluency and expression. Reciting and performing poems improves memory, articulation and the ability to convey emotion. It encourages playful and imaginative use of language.
Expressing themselves becomes easier through creative activities, as it offers children a safe space to be themselves. Through discussion, reflection and performance, they gain confidence and ownership of their ideas.
Storytelling helps learners structure ideas and engage with classmates as their audience. Sharing stories develops clarity, structure, listening and collaboration skills. It also builds confidence in expressing complex ideas.
Teamwork and group activities improve listening, turn-taking and communication. Children learn to respond thoughtfully and speak effectively in a group.
Bringing oracy into family life
Special equipment or plentiful spare time aren’t required to nurture oracy skills. Turn everyday moments into performing-arts moments:
Daily routines. Instructions can become rhymes or a call-andresponse, keeping communication lively and helping younger children practise clarity and rhythm.
Storytelling at dinner. Each person adds a line to a made-up story, building confidence and creativity.
Mini performances. Performing a poem, a short dance or a roleplay boosts self-belief and encourages children to speak out. Music on the go. Singing in the car or while walking to school supports projection, breath control and emotional expression.
Oracy isn’t just about speaking – it’s about feeling heard. And the performing arts gives children exactly that: a voice that feels strong, expressive and truly their own.
With thanks to Artis Foundation for this article. More information at www.artisfoundation.org.uk
Easter holiday fun at Stagecoach Havant
Stagecoach Havant will be performing Thank You For The Music for their Easter holiday workshop from Tuesday 7 to Friday 10 April. This high-energy and fun filled show is a tribute to one of the world’s most popular pop bands ever - ABBA.
Join them as they tell the story of ABBA’s meteoric rise to fame, the enduring popularity of their music and their influence on stage and screen with their monster hit musical Mamma Mia!
The four day performing arts course, at Crookhorn College, promises to be great fun with family and friends invited to see the show on the last day.
Children (aged 5 to 17) do not need to be current Stagecoach students to attend. Everyone is welcome - all is aked for is energy and enthusiasm.
To enrol and for full details, visit www.stagecoach.co.uk/ havant or email Principal, Jonny at havant@stagecoach. co.uk if you have any questions.
Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds
Giving children and young people the Creative Courage to stand up on stage for over 35 years.
listings correct at the time of going to print. Please check with the venue before visiting to ensure events are still going ahead and the venues are open.
WEEKLY
Pop-Up Family Fun at Chichester Festival Theatre
Thu & Sat
Relax and reconnect at CFT at an expansion of FREE family-friendly spaces on Thursdays during termtime and Saturdays from 9am-12pm. Ages 0-5. www.cft.org.uk
Family Saturdays at Aspex Gallery, Portsmouth
Every Sat
A different FREE creative activity workshop each week. 11am-1pm. www.aspex.org.uk
Early Years and Little Notes at Chichester Festival Theatre
Tue, Wed and Thu (term time)
Fun-filled workshops and activities for ages 0-5. Be prepared to join in as each child will need a grown-up partner to enjoy the session with. www.cft.org.uk
Family fun at Chichester Festival Theatre
Thu and Sat during (term time)
Children can discover toys, colouring-in, fancy dress and books in the nooks, while grown-ups can indulge in delicious coffee and cake. 9am–12pm. Ages 0–5. FREE. www.cft.org.uk
Little Pickles & Bigger Pickles
Market at Totton Health & Leisure Sun 22 Mar
Combined baby, toddler and children’s 0-13 years nearly new market. Buy clothes, toys, school
uniform, books, nursery furniture, baby equipment and so much more.
Little Pickles Market at Brockenhurst Village Hall Sun 10 May 0-5 years baby and children’s nearly new market. Buy clothes, toys, nursery furniture, baby equipment and more.
Little Pickles & Bigger Pickles Market at Applemore Health & Leisure Centre Sun 12 Apr
Combined baby, toddler and children’s 0-13 years nearly new market. Buy clothes, toys, school uniform, books, nursery furniture, baby equipment and so much more. Find out more and book online. www.littlepicklesmarkets.co.uk/ hampshire
Giant Marble Run at Alice Holt Forest
With six different zones taking you on a 1-mile journey through the forest, the giant marble run gives children a new way to play in nature. www.forestryengland.uk/alice-holtforest
Room on the Broom Trail at Alice Holt Forest
The interactive family trail brings the much-loved story to life. Pick up a trail pack, filled with everything you need to complete your adventure, including a Room on the Broom lanyard, magical spell cards, stickers, pencil and a pop-out craft to make your very own witchy wand. www.forestryengland.uk/room-onthe-broom
Tilly Plants a Tree Family Trail at Petworth House and Park
Explore the beautiful gardens of Petworth House and Park with a fun, family-friendly trail inspired by the book Tilly Plants A Tree from 28 March to 12 April.
Follow the trail to learn how Tilly grows her own oak tree. Along the way, solve puzzles, play games and discover tips for gardening at home. This activity is designed for primary-aged children and is a great way to enjoy the outdoors while learning about nature.
This hands-on, self-guided trail is packed with fun activities, perfect for budding gardeners! FREE but normal admission applies.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/petworth
The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ Trail at Mottisfont
Until 15 Mar
This charming trail brings to life the best-selling story of the tiny caterpillar who hatches from an egg and is so hungry he eats through a variety of fruits and snacks each day. Enhanced by illustrated trail markers, activities and games. Ages 3-6. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ mottisfont
Spring Spotter Trail at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens
Until 26 Mar
Self-guided fun with all the family. Spring is waking up the garden and it’s time to go exploring! 10am-4pm. www.hants.gov.uk/thingstodo/ hilliergardens
Disney and Pixar Cars at Beaulieu
Until 12 Apr
Some of the world’s most loved stars from the Disney and Pixar Cars franchise cruise into the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu. www.beaulieu.co.uk/disney-andpixar-cars
Autism Friendly Day at Monkey World
7 Mar
Monkey World opens early at 9am, exclusively for neurodivergent visitors and their families with a sensory trail, a calm room and dropin room for support to ensure a great day out. Pre-book. www.monkeyworld.org/events/ autism-friendly
Harbour Tots: Parent & Toddler Group – Rocking Robins at Chichester Harbour Conservancy
13 Mar
A fun outdoor session for toddlers to discover the natural environment and wildlife within stunning Chichester Harbour National Landscape. Each session will involve a short walk and activities outside. £7 one adult and child. 10-11am. www.conservancy.co.uk
The BFG Afternoon Tea at Chichester Festival Theatre 13 Mar-11 Apr (selected dates) Perfect for little ones with scrumdiddlyumptious taste buds and full-sized human beans too, they’ve created a very special opportunity to make your afternoon visit to The BFG even more memorable. Selected time slots available. Book online. www.cft.org.uk
4 Mar
Enjoy some hands-on fun! Roll up your sleeves and dive into crafts and activities, designed to offer a closer look at Petworth House and Park for littlest visitors aged 2-4. These activities occasionally take place outdoors so come prepared. 10.30-11.30am. FREE with normal admission. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ sussex/petworth
Young Ones Art Club at Southampton City Art Gallery 14 Mar
Experiment with different art materials and ideas and have some fun! Each monthly session we will take inspiration from the artwork on display in their collection. 10.30am. Ages 7-13.
www.southamptonmuseumsand gallery.co.uk
Easter School Holiday Specials at The Race Centre
The Race Centre will be holding their popular School Holiday Specials this Easter - a discounted event for families with ‘drivers’ aged 8 to 17.
Drivers start with an entrylevel car, learning the circuit and controls. You can then stick with that car, or move to something more challenging. All drivers are on track together competing to be the quickest. Lap times go into a leaderboard to make comparison super easy. Guardian adults can also join in at the discounted rate.
The Race Centre also host Junior Birthday Parties. Call 023 8026 9927 for full details and booking information.
www.theracecentre.co.uk
Little Antlers at Petworth House, West Sussex
Mothering Sunday at Stansted House, Rowlands Castle 15 Mar
Enjoy a true upstairs, downstairs experience this Mother’s Day. Explore the stunning State Rooms, and discover the extensive servants quarters. For younger visitors, there will be a special trail around the House to enjoy. 1-5pm. FREE admission for Mothers. www.stanstedpark.co.uk
Cobbles and Cogs at Milestones Living History Museum 21-22 Mar
Expect a weekend filled with music, games, spectacle and immersive steampunk experiences. Don your top hats and time-travelling goggles and join the fun! www.milestonesmuseum.org.uk/ event/cobbles-cogs-2026
Relaxed Open Morning at Mary Rose Museum 26 Mar
Relaxed open morning where the lights in the museum will be at a higher level and sound effects will be turned down. 10am-12pm. www.maryrose.org/events/relaxedopening-morning
Out Of The Box at The Spring Arts & Heritage Centre
28 Mar
A family-friendly circus comedy show, which sees an unlikely character and his box bring audiences together through joyful awe, never knowing what to expect next. With every opening of the box comes new trick shots, mini acts and hilarious opportunities for participation. £11. 11am & 2pm. www.thespring.co.uk/event/out-ofthe-box
Viking Weekend: Bjarnafolk at Winchester City Museum 28-29 Mar
Meet the Vikings this Spring with Bjarnafolk! Here for a whole weekend of enjoyable activities, you can learn how to write in runes, see some Viking crafts and find out about their weapons and methods of combat. FREE with normal entry. www.hampshireculture.org.uk/ event/viking-weekend-bjarnafolk
Pond Dipping at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey 31 Mar
What is lurking in the ponds? Come along for pond dipping and see what is in the Education Garden ponds. Can you find diving beetles, nimble pond skaters and slimy snails? All equipment provided. £3 per child. Sessions from 10.30am. www.hants.gov.uk/thingstodo/ hilliergardens
EASTER HOLIDAYS
Let’s Go Bunny Hunt at Winchester Science Centre 14 Mar-19 Apr
Hop into adventure at WSC. This immersive, story-led experience invites children to explore South Downs habitats through movement, sound and imagination. Little explorers will follow a rhythmic trail through different spaces, discovering the clues wildlife leave behind. £14, under 3s FREE. www.winchestersciencecentre.org
Easter Adventures at The Vyne, Basingstoke 21 Mar-6 Apr
Dive into 10 action-packed games and challenges in The Vyne’s gardens before collecting a prize at the end. £3.50 per trail sheet and
prize. Normal admission applies. Ages 3-10. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/the-vyne
Easter Egg Hunt at Hinton Ampner, Alresford 21 Mar-12 Apr
Grab your set of bunny ears and hop into the challenges Bonnie the Easter bunny has left behind. A chocolate egg waits for the best hopping, bouncing bunnies! www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hintonampner
Tea Party Easter Adventure Trail at Mottisfont, Romsey 21 Mar-12 Apr
Enjoy teatime-inspired gamescompete in the scone and spoon race, test your aim with toss the teabag and try a spot of plate spinning. Pop on your bunny ears, grab your activity sheet to guide the way and follow the trail around Mottisfont’s grounds and discover the ten awesome activity stations. £3.50, plus normal admission. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ mottisfont
Toddler Takeover XVII: Springtime Surprise at Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery
24 Mar
Enjoy a special day just for toddlers with the Museum and Art Gallery closed to the public so your little ones can explore, play and enjoy a host of easter activities with crafts, an Easter egg hunt and a lively Bunny Hop Disco. 11am-4pm. www.petersfieldmuseum.co.uk/ events/toddler-takeover-xviispringtime-surprise
Hands on History: Off with Their Heads at Tudor House & Garden, Southampton
28 Mar
Discover the horrible histories of the Tudors in this fun-filled activity session. Handle artefacts, play games and create your very own Tudor king or queen clay head to take home with you! Ages 6+. www.southamptonmuseumsand gallery.co.uk
Easter Boat Trips with Chichester Ship Canal
28 Mar-6 Apr
Hop aboard and discover the Easter Bunny on Chichester Canal this Spring. Activity and treats to enjoy. Selected sailing times. www.chichestercanal.org.uk/boattrips/easter-boat-trips
Celebrate Spring Equinox at Winchester City Museum
28 Mar-12 Apr
Vikings celebrated Ostara to mark the changing of the season from Winter into Spring. Follow a trail to find out how they celebrated this festival. Don’t miss out on egg decorating and make a flower crown for yourself or a friend. www.hampshireculture.org.uk
Hoppy Easter at Paultons Park
28 Mar-12 Apr
Meet Bobtail Bunny and Betty Bunny at Paultons this Easter and see colourful giant Easter eggs and bunnies at every turn. www.paultonspark.co.uk
Easter Fun at Monkey World, Dorset
28 Mar-12 Apr
Join in the Easter fun with lots of activities, crafts, competitions and trails for children to get involved in. Plus, FREE Easter trail with chocolate prizes on the bank holiday weekend (3-6 Apr). Book online. www.monkeyworld.org/events/ easter-fun-at-monkey-world
Join the Easter bunny and embark on a new family trail this Spring in Southampton’s historic Old Town. Every child who completes the adventure will receive a FREE prize!
Join the Easter bunny and embark on a new family trail this Spring in Southampton’s historic Old Town. Every child who completes the adventure will receive a FREE prize!
Step into a world of self-guided family fun where giggles bloom like spring flowers! Test your skills with tower building, balancing challenges, and cornhole tosses. Wander through playful zones and peaceful pockets - perfect for cloud spotting, quiet moments and admiring the season’s blossoms. £3 per trail. www.hants.gov.uk/thingstodo/ hilliergardens/whatson/ EasterTrail26
Easter Fun at The Brickworks Museum, Swanwick
29 Mar
This children’s Easter event will feature a visit from Em’s Friendly Farm with lots of animals on-site including some baby goats that the children can feed and pet. Plus, receive an Easter egg at the end and enjoy various craft activities all included within the price. 11am-4pm. www.thebrickworksmuseum.org/ event/easter-fun
Time Traveller Holiday Club at Butser Ancient Farm, Waterlooville
30 Mar-2 Apr
Is your child imaginative, curious, and energetic? Do they like being outside, trying new things and getting hands-on with fun activities? Send them on a time-travelling adventure at Butser Ancient Farm. They’ll spend each fun-filled day packed with exciting activities, from making their own clay pots, grinding wheat and baking bread, to trying weapons, playing ancient games and getting to know the Butser goats. 9am-5pm. £48 per day. Ages 6-12. www.butserancientfarm.co.uk
Scenes from a Tudor City at The Mary Rose Museum
30 Mar-10 Apr
Explore what the Tudors liked to cook and eat, what food they could find (and forage) and how healthy it was compared to a 2026 diet. www.maryrose.org
Art for All: Perfect Peter Rabbit Puppets at Southampton City Art Gallery 31 Mar
Have fun using collage techniques to create your own perfect Peter Rabbit puppet with moving parts. £8 per child. Ages 4+. www.southamptonmuseumsand gallery.co.uk
Waking Up The Wild! at Weald & Downland Living Museum
31 Mar-9 Apr
Explore Waking up the Wild over the Easter holidays with activities available on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday each week. More information available online. www.wealddown.co.uk/events/ waking-up-the-wild
Hoppy Easter at St Barbe Museum + Art Gallery, Lymington
2 Apr
Fun family activities with an Easter/ Spring theme. Ages 3+. FREE, drop-in. www.stbarbe-museum.org.uk
Bunnies Galore at Pallant House Gallery, Chichester 2-3 Apr
Hop’ along to the Gallery and take part in this FREE drop-in activity. Booking recommended. Ages 5+. www.pallant.org.uk/whats-on/ family-drop-in-bunnies-galoreage-5
Easter Bunny Trail at The Watercress Line, Alresford 2-6 Apr
Come and meet the Easter Bunny and enjoy the special Easter trains at The Watercress Line. Enjoy travelling on the heritage trains with themed sing-along songs and jokes with the Easter Bunny’s helpers. Children receive a FREE activity sheet and a small chocolate egg. 10.30am4.30pm. Pre-book online. www.watercressline.co.uk
Silly Scott’s Family Easter Show at Hanger Farm Arts Centre 3 Apr
Step into a world of wonder this Easter with Silly Scott’s Magical Show, a dazzling family theatre spectacular bursting with magic, laughter and heartwarming fun! 11am. All ages. www.hangerfarm.co.uk/whats-on/ silly-scotts-family-easter-show
Spring Festival at Petworth House, West Sussex 4-19 Apr
Enjoy the annual Spring Festival to celebrate the arrival of a new season with spectacular bulb displays, events and activities. Families can pick up a free Tilly Plants a Tree trail to explore the Pleasure Garden and discover fun games and activities along the way. FREE but normal admission applies. 10am-5pm. Full event details are online. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ sussex/petworth
Easter at Stansted House, Rowlands Castle 5-12 Apr
Visit Stansted Park this Easter and enjoy a fun filled family day out. The Easter Bunny has snuck into Stansted House and hidden Easter Eggs around the building- can you spot them all? 1-5pm. www.stanstedpark.co.uk/events/ easter-at-stansted-house
Butser Bushcraft - Kids Easter Camp at Butser Ancient Farm, Waterlooville 7-10 Apr
Find out if you have what it takes to survive in a time before Minecraft. Step out into nature where you will craft objects, acquire new skills and overcome challenges while working alongside others. Based in an ancient setting, experience the past in a completely new way and learn whether you have what it takes to survive or to thrive in the natural world. Ages 8-14. www.butserancientfarm.co.uk
Hands on History: Titanic Science! At SeaCity Museum 10 Apr
Discover more about the science of Titanic, including the technology on board and the expeditions to discover the wreck. Discover amazing history in a fun, interactive way. Ages 7+. www.southamptonmuseumsand gallery.co.uk
So Unfair at Hanger Farm Arts Centre
7 Apr
A brand-new interactive science demo show involving engineering challenges, bad dad jokes and an extraordinary quantity of molten chocolate. Ages 7+.
www.hangerfarm.co.uk
Create Your Own Bunting at The Arc, Winchester 9 Apr
Themed bunting making using a range of crafting materials and inspirational animal and space templates, you will be supported to create a colourful garland to give your chosen space a creative makeover. £15 per child.
www.hampshireculture.org.uk
Young Ones Art Club at Southampton City Art Gallery 11 Apr
Experiment with different art materials and ideas and have some fun! Each monthly session will take inspiration from the artwork on display in their collection. 10.30am. Ages 7-13. www.southamptonmuseumsand gallery.co.uk
Harbour Tots: Parent & Toddler Group at Chichester Harbour Conservancy 17 Apr
A fun outdoor session for toddlers and their parents/carers to discover the natural environment and wildlife within stunning Chichester Harbour National Landscape. Each session will involve a walk and activities outside. £7. 10-11am. www.conservancy.co.uk
Autism Friendly Day at Monkey World 18 Apr
Monkey World opens early at 9am, exclusively for neurodivergent visitors and their families with a sensory trail, a calm room and dropin room for support to ensure a great day out. Pre-book. www.monkeyworld.org
Spring Steam Gala at The Watercress Line, Alresford 24-26 Apr
This event is a chance to see and ride behind special guest engines and home-fleet locomotives. Explore all heritage stations along the 10-mile line, get up close to some of the locomotives, find out more about restoration projects and enjoy guided tours and various exhibits. www.watercressline.co.uk
Saturday Art & Craft at Pallant House Gallery, Chichester 25 Apr
A creative and relaxed workshop session inspired by art from their collections and exhibitions. Materials provided. Drop-in. Ages 5+. www.pallant.org.uk
Spring Steam Up at The Brickworks Museum, Swanwick 26 Apr
Pond Dipping at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey 2, 7 & 9 Apr
What is lurking in the ponds? Come along for pond dipping and see what is in the Education Garden ponds. Can you find diving beetles, nimble pond skaters and slimy snails? All equipment is provided. £3 per child. Sessions from 10.30am. www.hants.gov.uk/thingstodo/ hilliergardens
See the wonderful museum in full steam and enjoy the spring market with craft and gift stalls, children’s activities and play areas, blacksmith, buses, miniature train rides and more. 11am-4pm.
www.thebrickworksmuseum.org
Relaxed Open Morning at Mary Rose Museum 26 Apr
Relaxed open morning where the lights in the museum will be at a higher level and sound effects will be turned down.
www.maryrose.org/events/relaxedopening-morning
FAMILY THEATRE
CHICHESTER FESTIVAL THEATRE www.cft.org.uk
The BFG 9 Mar-11 Apr
Gather your chiddlers to see Roald Dahl’s beloved story come to life this spring. Relaxed performance on Tuesday 31 March. Book online. Ages 8+.
Counting Sheeps 17 Mar
Snuggle up and join two sheep on a journey through the joys and frustrations of everything bedtime. A touching, musical adventure filled with sensory play. Ages 0-3. FAREHAM LIVE www.trafalgartickets.com/fareham live-fareham/en-GB
WiFi Wars 28 Mar
An award-winning must-see interactive comedy game show that’s like nothing you’ve seen before. Ages 6+.
The Three Little Pigs The Musical 4 Apr
Get ready for a heartwarming adventure in this fresh, lively, familyfriendly musical that’ll have you laughing out loud from start to finish! Ages 4+.
This Is the Ultimate Girl Band Show starring Michelle Heaton from Liberty X. Expect fierce vocals, iconic choreography and all the hits you know and love – live on stage.
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang 9-19 Apr
The show features iconic musical numbers, all brought to life by an incredible community cast and professional production team.
The Boy at the Back of the Class highlights the power of good friends and courage in a world that doesn’t always make sense and reminds us that everyone needs a place to call home. Ages 7+.
A Squash and a Squeeze 31 Mar-4 Apr
A heartwarming and hilarious adventure, full of beautiful puppets and enchanting songs. Written and illustrated by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Ages 3+.
For the very first time, your favourite songs and actors from the CBBC TV series are appearing live on stage. For ages 5 to 105!
Matilda the Musical 29 Apr-17 May
Matilda The Musical is the multiaward winning musical from the Royal Shakespeare Company, inspired by the beloved book by the incomparable Roald Dahl. Matilda is the story of an extraordinary little girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a
Easter family fun at Winchester Science Centre
Hop into adventures at Winchester Science Centre with Let’s Go Bunny Hunt, running from 14 March to 19 April.
This immersive, story-led experience invites children to explore South Downs habitats through movement, sound and imagination.
Little explorers will follow a rhythmic trail through different spaces, discovering the clues wildlife leave behind.
Plus, explore two floors of interactive hands-on exhibits, blast off in an out of this world planetarium show and witness explosive don’t try this at home demos in science live!
Tickets from £14, under 3s FREE. www.winchestersciencecentre.org
stand and change her own destiny. Ages 6+. Book online today at www.mayflower.org.uk/whats-on/ matilda-2026
THEATRE ROYAL PORTSMOUTH www.newtheatreroyal.com
Tales from Acorn Wood 31 Mar Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s beloved Tales from Acorn Wood stories are brought to life on stage. Packed full songs, puppetry and all the friends from Acorn Wood.
Alice in Wonderland - Easter Pantomime 1 Apr
Hot Rock Productions is bringing to stage a fun-filled family pantomime
Alice in Wonderland, featuring stunning scenery, colourful costumes, toe-tapping songs and loads of laughter.
Dino Tales 30 Apr
With a captivating story and an entire herd of pre-historic beasts, Dino Tales is an unforgettable family adventure starring Europe’s largest walking dinosaurs to ever roam the stage.
THEATRE ROYAL WINCHESTER www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk
Flowers and Friendship Bracelets 14 Mar
Get ready for a dazzling explosion of music, dance and excitement in this ultimate pop concert.
Fun for Little Ones Live: A Tribute to Ms Rachel 9 Apr
An interactive, high-energy live tribute performance made just for little ones and their grown-ups!
Dinosaurs Live! 10 Apr
Ever since they were first identified in the 1800s, dinosaurs have sparked the imagination of kids and adults alike and for the first time ever, the world-renowned Natural History Museum will take you on a dinosaur adventure like no other. Ages 3+.
A Squash and a Squeeze 17-19 Apr
A heartwarming and hilarious adventure, full of beautiful puppets and enchanting songs.
THE BERRY THEATRE SOUTHAMPTON www.theberrytheatre.co.uk
Unicorn Live! 30 Mar
Featuring your favourite pop and musical theatre songs, dazzling costumes, and a real unicorn called Sparkle. All ages.
The Three Billy Goat’s Gruff 9 Apr
Hold on to your horns and join the three Billy goats on their wild and wacky adventure. With lots of catchy songs, funky dances to clap along to and a rapping troll to boot. Ages 3-7.
THE POINT, EASTLEIGH www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk
Dear Zoo 7 Mar
Share a magical experience with your little ones as this story unfolds with child-engaging puppets, music and lots of audience interaction.
K-Pop Party 10 Apr
The Non-Stop K-POP Concert Experience! Get ready to sing, dance, and party like never before with K-POP PARTY – the ultimate live celebration of Korea’s global music phenomenon! Ages 4+.
Awesome adventures at Flip Out Portsmouth
Get 10% off all sessions Use code Fam10
Looking for some family fun this Easter? There are some awesome indoor attractions at Flip Out Portsmouth to enjoy.
The indoor adventure park is PACKED with a diverse range of attractions for you to enjoy including a kids arena with aselection of trampolines- perfect for younger children. There’s a toddler soft play, foam pit, slam ball, inflatable slides, air track and more.
Use code FAM10 to get a 10% discount off all sessions. www.flipout.co.uk/locations/portsmouth
Visit Southampton’s Old Town Easter Trail
This Easter, little explorers are invited to hop into Southampton’s Old Town for a brand-new Easter trail.
The Easter Bunny is busy preparing a tea party for all his friends but needs your help.
Using the trail map, make your way around the city to find colourful trail posters, each one revealing an item the Easter Bunny needs to make his party a grand success!
Complete the trail and head to the end location to claim a FREE prize for all your hard work.
The trail runs from 28 March to 12 April. www.visitsouthampton.co.uk/easter-trail
