Primary Times Gloucestershire, February Half Term 2022

PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN FREE INSIDE: WHAT’S O N WHERE GUIDE 37,500 COPIES FOR FAMILIES OF

Gloucestershire

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022 SAT 19 FEBRUARY-FRI 8 APRIL ISS.179

www.primarytimes.co.uk

Here come the lambs!

Local farmer and BBC presenter Adam Henson talks about the joy of lambing at this exciting time of year. P4 + COMPS GALORE!

TICKETS TO CRAFT FESTIVAL CHELTENHAM!

+ DISCOUNT HEAVEN!

SAVE MONEY WITH THESE SPECIAL OFFERS

+ SUMMER’S COMING!

WIN TICKETS TO WYCHWOOD FESTIVAL!

DAYS OUT • EDUCAT ION • COMPET I T IONS • FAMILY FUN

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MON 30TH MAY - WEDS 1ST JUNE 2022 MON 8TH AUG - WED 10TH AUG 2022 Led by highly qualified and DBS cleared educators

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Use code PT22SPL for 10% off day entry!* *Valid only when booking online in advance. Discount code may only be used once per user. Discount subject to availability

Keynsham Road, Cheltenham, GL53 7PU

Registered Charity: 1052203

cotswoldeducationuk@gmail.com or 07976218062

Fun, fitness and self defence for the whole family

Free trial karate classes

Venues in: Gloucester & Cheltenham 07971 584901 Tewkesbury 07926 312645 Ross-on-Wye 07891 603845 02 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022

primarytimes.co.uk/gloucestershire

EE FR

INSIDE

Gloucestershire

Dear Readers,

February Half Term is a “do what you like” type holiday - one of my favourite times - with spring on the way and little pressure to visit extended family or prepare for that big annual holiday: ideal for enjoying Gloucestershire’s attractions.

And, with the pandemic receding (fingers crossed!), our interview with Adam Henson about lambing (P4) feels more symbolic of new life returning than ever. Our packed Box Office (P7) shows that families can book the theatre with relative confidence, while our Wychwood and Craft Festival Cheltenham competitions (P14 and P15) see festivals and indoor events gearing up again.

Here’s to 2022, the year we can all get out and enjoy life again!

Mike Gartside - Publisher

04 COVER STORY 05 SCOOP 07 BOX OFFICE 08 W.O.W. 11 CORKBOARD 14 FOR THE KIDS

Christmas 2021 SALES MIKE GARTSIDE mike.gartside@ primarytimes.co.uk 01452 937123

EDITORIAL & DESIGN MIKE GARTSIDE mike.gartside@ primarytimes.co.uk SUB-EDITOR & BOX OFFICE:

Tom Phillips WOW LISTINGS

Ellen White

PUBLISHED BY STARFISH PUBLISHING LIMITED, The Create Centre, Smeaton Road, Bristol, BS1 6XN 01452 937123

Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through national primary schools in Gloucestershire . It aims to inform families and children about current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses, attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or by joining in the competitions. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically based material whatsoever. We also undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best interests of young children. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in Gloucestershire for their assistance in distributing the magazine and for their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible. Please support their endeavours when and where you can. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Primary Times or with the relevant contributor. Primary Times is currently publishing over two million copies per issue under franchise licences throughout Britain.

Competition winners Congratulations to the winners of last issue’s competitions as follows: Corinium Museum Sharon Jarman of Swindon correctly identified that the Roman name for Cirencester is Corinium. She wins a family membership to the museum and a Corinium Museum Explorer’s Handbook Spy Academy Daisy Allen, 5, from Twyning nr.

Tewkesbury solved the puzzle that Agent Annie’s adversaries are using a) binoculars b) drone and c) pen camera to spy on her. She wins a Daisy completing £20 Amazon voucher. her puzzle

Bring the whole family (including the dog!) and explore 56 acres of wild gardens, paths and streams at Batsford this spring!

MONEY SAVING OFFERS Find these discounts in the latest edition of Primary Times

CAMP 4-2-11 Up to 25% off summer camps in Gloucestershire SANDFORD PARKS LIDO 10% off day entry with code PT22SPL SAMURAI MARTIAL ARTS Free trial classes DICK WHITTINGTON PARK One adult goes free with Primary Times advert this February (see P8) SPY ACADEMY Free spy kit worth £40 with training primarytimes.co.uk/gloucestershire

Join our children's Easter trail!

See our website for details

www.batsarb.co.uk Batsford Arboretum & Garden Centre Near Moreton in Marsh, GL56 9AT. Tel: 01386 701441 Open daily

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022 03

Gloucestershire Advertising feature

Here come the lambs!

With spring nearly here, Gloucestershire farmer and BBC Countryfile presenter Adam Henson explains how experiencing the birth of a lamb first-hand teaches children so much about the cycle of life

A

dam Henson is getting ready for lambing, one of his busiest and most exciting times of the year.

But he’s happy to answer a few questions from Primary Times.

What are the benefits to children of seeing live lambing?

“It’s wonderful that young people can see sheep giving birth. It’s great to understand about how reproduction works, and the process of sheep farming. Then, to see animals being born, to see young life coming into the world, is incredibly special. Getting close to the sheep, seeing them go through the birthing process and seeing lambs being born is wonderful for young people.”

How can you tell when a ewe is about to give birth?

“A ewe becomes quite restless when she’s about to give birth.

She’ll lie down, she’ll stand up, she’s feeling uncomfortable and going through the early stages of giving birth. Then she’ll go round in circles and lie down again. She’ll start licking her lips in anticipation of licking her newborn lamb. Sheep usually lie down with their back legs tucked underneath them but when she starts to have contractions, she often pushes her back legs out, which makes her feel more comfortable.

Then, as the contractions come, she lifts her head up – they call

04 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022

it ‘stargazing’ – because she looks up to the sky as she’s pushing.”

How old were you when you first started lambing?

“I’ve been working here on the farm ever since I was a little boy. I was born and brought up here and I helped my dad from the moment I could walk and carry a bucket. So he used to work with me and my three sisters as his little helpers and give us jobs to do. I probably lambed my first ewe when I was about ten and my father would help me guide the lamb out into the world, just

with simple, straight-forward lambing to start off with. Then as things got more complex I’d be able to help out. Actually, when there’s not a lot of room inside, with a larger lamb, having little hands is quite useful! But you do have to be reasonably strong. When you’re helping a ewe give birth, it’s about being careful but firm.”

What’s been your most memorable lambing moment?

“I’ve been lambing sheep for as long as I can remember, and I’ve had lots of

memorable moments. Every time a lamb comes into the world, it’s special. Even though I’ve seen thousands of births, it’s still a moving experience.

There are times when I’ve had lambs that have been very stuck and it’s been very difficult. Occasionally one comes out ‘mispresented’ so its front legs are back and its head comes out on its own.

Then you have to push the lamb back into the birth canal and carefully use string to pull the head forward again, in the right position relative to the feet so it can all come out successfully. I was working for ‘Countryfile’ one day and came across that situation in the lambing shed. I was with Ellie Harrison, one of my copresenters, and the cameras were on us. We had to get it right. What I didn’t want to do – for millions of people watching the programme – was to deliver a stillborn lamb. There was a lot of pressure and I had to keep turning to the camera and talking to the camera, but also explaining to Ellie what was going on. The lamb was born successfully and I think it was a really moving piece of television as well.”

Lambing season starts at Cotswold Farm Park on Monday 14 February.

Find out more at www. cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk.

primarytimes.co.uk/gloucestershire

NEWS FOR GLOUCESTERSHIRE’S PRIMARY SCHOOLS

Run for their lives

T

his March Cotswold Dogs and Cats Home is holding a 26.2 mile charity marathon with a difference - you don’t have to go the whole distance all at once.

You can take it in stages and break it down to a mile or two a day. There’s no set route and you don’t even need to run if you don’t want to - you can walk, cycle, do it in your own garden, on

a treadmill or while you’re taking the dog out for a walk. The aim is simply to complete all 26.2 miles over the course of the 31 days of March. To take part all you have to do is sign up online, set up a fundraising page on JustGiving or Facebook and get all your friends

and family to sponsor you. All the money raised will go to support the home’s work caring and finding new homes for more than 1,000 cats and dogs every year.

Cotswold Dogs and Cats Home Marathon March W: cotswoldsdogsandcatshome.org.uk/marathon-march

NEWS BITES

Glorious mud

Camp discounts

G

et your welly boots on and head for Cerney House Gardens for some messy outdoor play. Every Monday and Wednesday morning from now until the end of March, roots. shoots.muddy_boots will be hosting hour-long sessions of activities for children aged 0-5.

Expect paint, sand and water play along “themes little people tend to enjoy”. Adults are welcome and there’ll be some “very special guests” coming to visit on 23 Feb and 2-4, 7, 9-11 and 31 March as well.

Holiday activity provider Camp 4-2-11 has released its programme for summer, from 25 Jul to 19 Aug, and is offering a 25% discount off its Cheltenham camp and 15% off its other settings for those booking by 28 Feb. W: camp4211.co.uk/our-camps

A good start

Home-Start NW Gloucestershire hosts four free groups in Cheltenham, Lydney, Northway and Ruarden for expectant mums and under-5s.

W: homestartnwglos.org.uk

W: bookwhen.com/ rootsshootsmuddyboots

THE CRYPT SCHOOL Start your journey together with us at an

OPEN MORNING Wednesday 23rd March 2022 9.30am & 11.30am Visit cryptschool.org/open-events to book your place

01452 530291 enquiries@crypt.gloucs.sch.uk Podsmead Rd, Gloucester, GL2 5AE Find us on Facebook and Twitter @TheCryptSchool

SOUTH

WEST

re Cent 2 2 a nd l t 2 e b 0 W d ge 7 Fe i r 2 b n im Su at Sl 19 to Sat

#wwtpuddlejumping

Search WWT Slimbridge WWT reg. charity in E & W, no. 1030884 & Scotland, no. SC039410

primarytimes.co.uk/gloucestershire

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022 05

Circus Spectacular Learning in Community

THE ULTIMATE 11+ PREPARATION

Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham, Wed 23 Feb

The leading 11+ provider in Gloucestershire On location Mock Tests Online Short Courses At Home Mock Tests 11+ Summer Camp Online Revision Day 10+ Summer Activity Day FREE Resources & Events FREE Online Parents’ Meetings All our moc k tests includ e an extensi ve report!

For more information: Email cotswoldeducationuk@gmail.com or Call 07976 218062 or Visit www.cotswoldeducation.co.uk

Bacon Theatre

desperate to unravel the mystery before a real detective arrives. Two actors play 13 different parts in this high-energy musical whodunit. Suitable for ages 8+.

Performances at 7.30pm with Sat mats at 2.30pm. Tickets £11.50-£39/£11.50-£37 (child).

Dean Close School, Hatherley Rd, Cheltenham GL51 6EP, 01242 258002, www.bacontheatre. co.uk

Wed 23 Feb Circus Spectacular

Expect international circus acts, magic, laughter and a “slosh-style” finale in this circus show where the audience gets to choose which acts they want to see next.

Suitable for all ages. Performance 3pm.

Tickets £17.50/£15.50 (concs)/£60 (family of 4).

Mon 21 Mar to Sat 30 Apr The Mozart Question

An acclaimed violinist looks back on his life growing up in Venice and reveals the story of a violin with a haunting past in this adaptation of the story set against the background of the Holocaust that author Michael Morpurgo considers to be his most important work. Suitable for ages 8+. Performances 7.30pm with Sat mats 2.30pm.

Tickets £11.50-£22/£11.50-£20 (child).

Fri 25 Feb Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland

SPD Youth Ballet tell Lewis Carroll’s classic story about the girl who tumbles down a rabbit hole and finds herself in a world of unlikely characters and unexpected surprises. Performances at 3pm and 6.30pm.

Tickets £14/£10 (concs).

Cheltenham Playhouse

47-53 Bath Rd, Cheltenham GL53 7HG, 01242 522852, www.cheltplayhouse.org.uk

Sat 19 Feb

Mon 4 Apr

Terry Deary’s Twisted Tales

Terrible Tudors

EJS

Edward Jenner School

Making Learning Happen aStrong traditional Maths and English aInvestigative and exploratory Science aConfidence-building through individual programmes

aAffordable provision aSmall class sizes, gradual transitions Registered for children aged 5 to 16 years Space to learn and play

Full time or part time places to support home schooling

To arrange a visit, please contact the school

Please phone or email:

01452 380808

office@edwardjennerschool.org www.edwardjennerschool.org.uk

44 London Road, Gloucester GL1 3NZ

06 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022

Those terrible Tudors are back, complete with horrible Henries, evil Elizabeth and bloody Mary. Join the Horrible Histories crew as they scamper through legends, lies and true stories about one of the nation’s most extraordinary periods. Performances at 1.30pm and 6.30pm. Tickets £14/£12 (concs)/£10 (school).

Three actors take you on a fast-paced quest to discover if the past really can tell the future as Victorian schoolteacher Mr Pimm does his best to teach his pupils history. Written by Horrible Histories author Terry Deary. Block booking discounts available for schools and youth groups. Performance at 2pm. Tickets £16 (adult)/£14 (child & OAP).

Fri 8 Apr

Cheltenham Town Hall

Imperial Sq, Cheltenham GL50 1QA, 0844 576 2210, www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

Twirlywoos Live

Great BigHoo, Toodloo, Chickedy, Chick and friends set out on a great big live Twirlywoo adventure. Expect lots of colourful fun and laughter in this show from the makers of ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar’.

Performances at 1.30 and 4.30pm. Tickets £16/£14 (child)/£56 (family).

Sat 19 Mar Magical Bones: Black Magic

Be amazed by both mesmerising illusions and jaw-dropping breakdance moves as the ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ finalist brings his debut stage show to Cheltenham.

Performance at 2pm. Tickets £17.

Sat 30 Apr The Wind in the Willows

Everyman Theatre

Join Ratty, Mole, Badger and Toad as they set out on the adventure of a lifetime in the musical adaptation of the classic riverbank story. Immersion Theatre bring their socially distanced performance to the Bacon after it had to be re-scheduled from last year. Performance at 2pm. Tickets £10/£8 (concs).

Regent St, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ, 01242 572573, www.everymantheatre.org.uk

Until Sat 19 Feb Magic Goes Wrong

Until Sat 5 Mar

A group of magicians decide to raise money for charity by staging a night of grand illusions and trickery - but it doesn’t go to plan. Magic, comedy, pratfalls and daredevil stunts from the team behind ‘The Play That Goes Wrong’. Performances at 7.30pm and mats (Thu, Sat & Sun) 2pm.

Tickets from £23.

Murder for Two: A Killer Musical Comedy

Thu 17 Feb

Barn Theatre

5 Beeches Rd, Cirencester GL7 1BN, 01285 648255, barntheatre.org.uk

A famous novelist is found dead and neighbourhood policeman Marcus Moscowicz leaps in to solve the case -

The Ballad of Mulan

Discover the story of the real Chinese

primarytimes.co.uk/gloucestershire

BOXOFFICE

THE VERY BEST THEATRE, ARTS AND FILM NEAR YOU female warrior that inspired Disney’s film in this story of a woman trying to find her true identity. Performances at 2pm & 7.45pm. Tickets £12.50/£11 (concs).

Tue 22-Sat 26 Feb Shrek: The Musical

Cheltenham Operatic and Dramatic Society present the hugely successful stage musical about the big green-headed hero and his quest to save Princess Fiona.

Performances at 7pm and mats (Thu & Sat) 2pm. Tickets from £20.

Thu 31 Mar Madame Butterfly

Puccini’s tale of a love crushed between two different cultures is the first of three classic operas performed by the Russian State Opera. 7.30pm. Tickets from £27.

Fri 1 Apr Aida

Sat 2 Apr Carmen

The Russian State Opera round off their visit with Bizet’s vibrant tale of love and betrayal - including one of the most famous arias of any opera, ‘The Toreador Song’. Performance at 7.30pm. Tickets from £27.

Wed 23 Feb

of the colourful elephant through guided role play, interactive storytelling and imaginative play. Ages 3-8. Starts at 12.30pm.

Tickets £25 (incl afternoon tea).

Pinocchio

Norwich Puppet Theatre present the classic fairytale about the wooden boy who comes to life. Performance at 2pm.

Tickets £10-£12.

Wed 2 Mar, Wed 9 Mar & Wed 6 Apr Tots and Tales

Morning of stories and crafts for the under-fives. Starts 10am. Free for under-5s, £5 (parent/carer).

The Sub Rooms

Lypiatt, Stroud GL6 7NE, 01453 800200, https:// giffordscircus.com/

Sat 26 Mar

Mon 21-Tue 22 Feb

Thu 14-Mon 25 Apr

Five Minutes Peace

Tweedy’s Lost Property

Fennells Farm

Carpa!

Giffords Circus’s new show inspired by Mexico and 1920s/’30s touring theatre.

Features Mexican performers. Tickets from £20 (adult)/£10 (child).

Pittville Pump Rooms

East Approach Drive, Cheltenham GL52 3JE, www. cheltenhamtownhall.org

George St, Stroud GL5 1AE, 01453 796880, www. thesubrooms.co.uk

Join an imaginary drama adventure at this Mother’s Day storytelling based on the children’s book of the same name. Starts at 12.30pm. Tickets £25 (incl tea).

Tweedy the clown decides to get himself a new career in a lost property office. What could possibly go wrong? Expect lots of laughter as the ever-popular slapstick star gets into a typical muddle. Performances at 11.30am. Tickets £11.50-£13.50.

The Roses Theatre

Sun St, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX, 01684 295074, www.rosestheatre.org

Wed 13 Apr

Tue 22 Feb

The Circus Sonas

Northern Irish father and son duo Martin and Logy perform circus stunts and magic tricks with plenty of ‘wow factor’ in this family-friendly show. Suitable for ages 6+.

Performance at 2pm. Tickets £9-£14.50.

Morgan & West: Unbelievable Science Over 30 singers and musicians of the Sun 20 Feb Time-travelling magicians and bona fide Russian State Opera perform Verdi’s tale scientists feature in this interactive science Elmer the Elephant of love in ancient Egypt. Show 7.30pm.

CF Chelt Primary Times half page ad alt 1 180122.qxp 18/01/2022 10:05 Page 1 show. 2pm. Tickets £12-£14.

Storyteller Vickie Long explores the tale Tickets from £27.

CRAFT

Festival C H E LT E N H A M 11 - 13 MARCH 2022

Meet 100 designer makers, craft demonstrations, join craft workshops and free family activities Adults from £7, accompanied under 18s free Book your tickets at www.craftfestival.co.uk/cheltenham primarytimes.co.uk/gloucestershire

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022 07

/glo E R E ucestershire

Rd Painswick, Stroud GL6 6TH, rococogarden.org.uk It’s snowdrop season at the Rococo Garden so now’s your chance to see 15 different varieties of snowdrop as they transform this hidden valley for just a few months a year. 10am-5pm, standard admission prices apply.

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display. Suitable for children aged 10+.

From 6.45pm, £45 per person (including dinner and a complimentary drink).

UNTIL SAT 26 MAR ALTOGETHER ART New Brewery Arts Centre, Brewery Court, Cricklade St, Cirencester GL7 1JH, www.newbreweryarts.org.uk Join artist Hannah Ellis for a creative introduction to art techniques including painting, sculpture and printmaking. Ages 5 to 11, sessions 10-11.30am or 12.151.45pm, £120 per course.

UNTIL MON 28 FEB MIDNIGHT WINTER’S TRAIL Corinium Museum, Park St, Cirencester GL7 2BX, coriniummuseum.org See if you can spot the drawings from Ben Miller’s new book ‘How I became a Dog called Midnight’ as you go round the museum following this digital trail. Click on the image to reveal a snippet of the story and claim a sticker as a prize when you complete the whole trail.

SNOWDROP SPECTACULAR Painswick Rococo Garden, Gloucester Rd, Painswick, Stroud GL6 6TH, www. rococogarden.org.uk It’s snowdrop season at the Rococo Garden so now’s your chance to see 15 different varieties of snowdrop as

UNTIL SAT 5 MAR

UNTIL SUN 27 MAR

OWL EVENINGS The International Centre for Birds of Prey, Boulsdon House, Newent GL18 1JJ, www.icbp.org Delve into the magical, moonlit world of owls with an evening of flying displays and the brand new Hawk Walk demonstration. Warm up with dinner, dessert and drinks whilst exploring the centre’s owls by light trail, then head down to the flying field to experience the owls by moonlight with a spotlit flying

UNTIL SUN 5 JUN

ICE AGE EXHIBITION Museum in the Park, Stratford Park, Stratford Rd, Stroud GL5 4AF, www. museuminthepark.org.uk Explore half a million years of ancient local history. Discover how the Ice Age could get rather hot, how we were not the only humans back then and how our landscape would be unrecognisable to us today. From mammoths to man-caves, from sultry swamps to fascinating forests, the Ice Age is full of surprises. 10am4.30pm/11am-4.30pm Sat and Sun, free.

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR Nature in Art Museum, Wallsworth Hall, Gloucester GL2 9PA, www. natureinart.org.uk Expect stunning images of the natural world at this world-renowned exhibition, on loan from the Natural History Museum, 10am-5pm, standard admission applies.

UNTIL FRI 1 APR

ds & Open weeken every school holiday 10am-5pm

dick whittington play barn

Come and enjoy one of Gloucestershire’s largest indoor Play Barns, including a soft play area, slides, trampolines and climbing wall.

Refreshments in the Cats Whiskers Restaurant!

FOR OPENING TIMES & TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT

dickwhittingtonpark.co.uk or call 01452 831000

ONE ADULT FREE ENTRY ADVERT VALID UNTIL 28 FEBRUARY 2022 WITH THIS

08 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022

VICTORIAN CHILDHOOD EXHIBITION Holst Victorian House, 4 Clarence Rd, Pittville, Cheltenham GL52 2AY, www. holstvictorianhouse.org.uk What was life like for a child growing up in Victorian times? Glimpse young 19th century lives through objects from the time, including original Punch and Judy puppets. Try your hand at observational drawing or writing on a slate board.

10am-4pm, inc.in standard admission.

UNTIL SUN 24 APR LAMBING AND KIDDING Cotswold Farm Park, nr. Guiting Power, Cheltenham GL54 5FL, www. cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk Meet the farm’s new additions, with rare breeds and sheep, as well as goats, due to give birth. See Feature P4.

Birds Behaving Badly Birdland, Sat 19 -Sun 27 Feb. We’re told this lilac-breasted roller vomits on its young

THE ROYAL PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION 162 The Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester, GL1 1HP, www.museumofgloucester.co.uk/ exhibitions Held continuously since 1854, this is the 162nd annual exhibition by the RPS, showing compelling images from photographers worldwide without restrictions on age, subject matter or country. A programme of events for all ages runs alongside the show - see website for details.

UNTIL SAT 31 DEC REGGIE THE RAPTOR’S TRAIL THROUGH TIME The Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester GL1 1HP, www. museumofgloucester.co.uk Explore the museum for “roarsome” family-fun with Reggie the Raptor’s Trail Through Time. Trail sheets are available to buy at reception by donation: simply

Would you like your April and May events printed FREE in Easter’s WOW and seen by 37,500 readers?

Email info to: GLOS@ PRIMARYTIMES. CO.UK

BY FRIDAY 4 MARCH

primarytimes.co.uk/gloucestershire

Gloucestershire

Tell them you saw it here!

pay what you think. Book tickets online to avoid disappointment. Suitable for all ages. 10am-4pm (11am-3pm Sun).

TUE 15-WED 16 FEB STRIKE A LIGHT YOUTH THEATRE AND DANCE Various locations, Gloucester, strikealight.org.uk Weekly youth theatre and dance sessions organised by Gloucester’s Strike a Light.

Youth theatre sessions available for ages 7-11, 11-15 and 16+, dance classes are for ages 15+ and led by professional dancers from Rise Youth Dance. £70 per term (financial support available).

FRI 18- SUN 20 FEB GLOUCESTER FOLK TRAIL Various locations, Gloucester, www. gloucesterbid.uk/gloucester-folk-trail The popular Gloucester Folk Trail returns for a fifth year, promising to liven up the city with a host of free live music from folk musicians, artists and poets from across the county. See website.

SAT 19 FEB FOSTER FOR GLOUCESTERSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL Stroud Farmers Market, Cornhill Market Place and surrounding streets, Stroud GL5 2HH, www. gloucestershire.gov.uk/fostering Speak to a foster carer to learn more about fostering a child. 9am-3pm, free.

SAT 19-SUN 27 FEB HALF-TERM FUN The Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester GL1 1HP, www. museumofgloucester.co.uk Expect plenty of half-term fun at the museum. Visit the website for all details, dates, times and booking information.

10am-4pm (11am-3pm Sun).

PUDDLE JUMPING 2022 Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Newgrounds Ln, GL2 7BT, www.wwt. org.uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge Grab some wellies and make a splash this half term with the return of Slimbridge’s Puddle Jumping Championship! Make the biggest splash you can for the chance to win a prize, plus plenty more fun activities. 9.30am-4.30pm, included in standard admission prices.

Day camps for children aged 4 to 12 with activities including gymnastics, trampolining, arts and crafts, soft play and more. 10am-3.15pm, £25 per day.

MON 21 FEB-THU 3 MAR FAIRTRADE FORTNIGHT www.fairtrade.org.uk Teach children about the who, why, how and where their food comes from.

TUE 22 FEB CHILDREN’S CRAFT DROP-IN: SPRING BULBS Holst Victorian House, 4 Clarence Rd, Pittville, Cheltenham GL52 2AY, holstvictorianhouse.org.uk Plant your own spring bulb in a vintage cup or choose a pot to decorate yourself.

Activity included in general admission.

SUN 20 FEB CHILDREN’S STORYTELLING WITH ELMER THE ELEPHANT Pittville Pump Room, E Approach Dr, Cheltenham GL52 3JE, www. cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk Storyteller Vickie Long leads a journey with colourful Elmer, including role play, storytelling and imaginative play. Adults can enjoy an afternoon tea. 12.30pm, £25 per adult and child (inc. tea).

enjoy creative activities. 10-11.30am, £3 per child.

THU 24 FEB FOSTER FOR GLOUCESTERSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL Tewkesbury Library, Sun St, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX, www. gloucestershire.gov.uk/fostering Want to know about fostering a child?

2-5pm, free.

ART IN THE GALLERIES The Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester GL1 1HP, www. museumofgloucester.co.uk Take sketchbook to join artist Claire Taylor-Jones to explore the museum collection. Every fourth Thursday of the month. 10am-1pm. Also Thu 23 Mar. SAT 26 FEB

WED 23 FEB NATURE TOTS Robinswood Hill Country Park, Gloucester GL46SX, gloucestershirewildlifetrust.co.uk/events Outdoor time for pre-school children to enjoy nature, have fun in the mud and enjoy creative activities. 10-11.30am, £3 per child. enjoy nature, have fun in the mud and

SLOW STITCH SATURDAY The Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester GL1 1HP, www. museumofgloucester.co.uk Spend a relaxed couple of hours hand stitching, knitting, crocheting and working on your own projects. Artist Claire Taylor-Jones will be on hand to working on your own projects. Artist

MON 21 FEB YOUNG BIRDER ID WORKSHOP Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Newgrounds Ln, Gloucester GL2 7BT, www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/ slimbridge Get to grips with bird identification with the help of an experienced reserve warden. Suitable for ages 13-18, 10am12pm, £6 per young person (does not include admission to the centre).

Visit in February to enjoy our famous snowdrops*

INDOOR FAMILY GAMES AND PICNIC Archway School, Paganhill, Stroud GL5 4AX, www.allsortsglos.org.uk Join Allsorts for fun and games in the sports hall at Archway School. They’ll provide a sensory corner and free play with toys from the toy library, plus a range of fun games from the sports team.

Designed for children with additional needs. 10.30am-12.30pm, £4 per child.

Image: Clive Nichols

DISCOVERY SESSION The Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester, GL1 1HP, www. museumofgloucester.co.uk Enjoy a friendly chat with museum experts on a range of fascinating historical topics relevant to the collections at the museum. Must be pre-booked.

GL54 2BN, www.birdland.co.uk Learn more about our less cordial feathered friends this half term when Birds Behaving Badly take the spotlight.

Keepers offer fascinating facts and you can find out more with the spotter’s quiz trail. 10am-4pm, standard admission prices apply.

Free trail to keep young explorers busy!

The perfect place for families to get out in the fresh air and explore.

MAZE

MON 21-FRI 25 FEB

HALF-TERM HOLIDAY CAMPS Cotswold Club House, Unit 20b Bourton Ind Park, Bourton on BIRDS BEHAVING BADLY Birdland Park and Gardens, the Water, Gl54 2HQ, www.

Rissington Rd, Bourton-on-the-Water cotswoldclubhouse.co.uk GL54 2BN, www.birdland.co.uk Day camps for children aged 4 to 12 Learn more about our less cordial with activities including gymnastics, primarytimes.co.uk/gloucestershire feathered friends this half term when trampolining, arts and crafts, soft play Birds Behaving Badly take the s

RUSTIC PLAY AREA

SHOP & CAFÉ

DOGS WELCOME

Open daily during half-term, booking required, check website for full details: *Check our website for flowering updates.

rococogarden.org.uk Follow us on

Registered charity no.1107844

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022 09

Gloucestershire

Claire Taylor-Jones is on hand to help.

10am-12noon. £5 tea/coffee included.

FRI 4 MAR WHOLE SCHOOL WORKING OPEN MORNING The King’s School, Pitt St, Gloucester GL1 2BG, www.thekingsschool.co.uk Get a feel for the environment at one of Gloucester’s leading independent schools with a relaxed open morning. The chance to meet pupils and teachers, as well as take a tour of the facilities. From 9am, free.

SAT 5 MAR SENIOR SCHOOL OPEN MORNING Rendcomb College, Rendcomb, Cirencester GL7 7HA, www. rendcombcollege.org.uk/visit Sign up to visit Rendcomb’s Senior School for a guided tour and your chance to ask about your child’s future education.

FRI 11-SUN 13 MAR CRAFT FESTIVAL CHELTENHAM Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square GL50 1QA craftfestival.co.uk/ cheltenham Ideal family day out with a hundred local crafts people and lots of children’s activities. See feature P13.

local crafts people and lots of children’s activities. See feature P13.

WED 23 MAR MAIN SCHOOL OPEN MORNING The Crypt School, Podsmead Rd, Gloucester GL2 5AE, www. cryptschool.org/ Find out about Gloucester’s only co-educational grammar school for ages 11-18. Tour the school, meet staff and students and hear from the head.

Booking essential: places limited to one adult and one child.

SAT 26 MAR FIVE MINUTES PEACE STORYTELLING SESSION FOR MOTHER’S DAY Pittville Pump Room, E Approach Dr, Cheltenham GL52 3JE, www. cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk Treat mum to tea in the Pump Room on Mother’s Day weekend, while children are entertained with an drama session based on Jill Murphy’s classic book. 12.30pm, £25 per adult and child (includes Treat mum to tea in the Pump Room on Mother’s Day weekend, while children are entertained with an drama session based on Jill Murphy’s classic book. 12.30pm, £25 per adult and child (inc. tea).

SAT 16 APR

2022 SEASON OPENING DAY Sandford Parks Lido, Keynsham Rd, Cheltenham GL53 7PU, www. sandfordparkslido.org.uk Take the plunge for the new season.

Free taster sessions available. 11am7pm. Special price: 2p entry.

EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA Sandford Parks Lido, Keynsham Rd, Cheltenham GL53 7PU, www. sandfordparkslido.org.uk Easter games and activities for all the family. 11am-3pm. Normal entry fee applies.

WED 13 APR FAMILY WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Newgrounds Ln, Gloucester GL2 7BT, www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/ slimbridge A practical and enjoyable day for budding young wildlife photographers (aged 8 or above) and their parents to learn how to get great shots of wildlife.

10am-1pm, £32 per adult and child/ extra person £10 each.

WED 13- THU 14 APR THE APRIL MEETING Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Rd, Cheltenham GL50 4SH, www. thejockeyclub.co.uk Racing fun for the whole family: watch the professionals on the track for the last time before the summer break.

First race 2.05pm. Tickets from £10.

SAT 14 MAY WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN MORNING The King’s School, Pitt St, Gloucester GL1 2BG, www. thekingsschool.co.uk Meet pupils and teachers, and discover this unique teaching environment..

FRI 3-SUN 5 JUN WYCHWOOD FESTIVAL Cheltenham Racecourse GL50 4SH, wychwoodfestival.com One of Gloucestershire’s leading family festivals is back! As well as bands like Deacon Blue, Sophie Ellis-Bextor and Boney M, the festival has a brilliant Children’s Area with workshops, kids’ literature, festival performers, magicians and more! Tickets from £24.50 (5-9s no camping) to £149 (adult camping). See also comp. P14.

SAT 19 MAR

Independent Day School Girls & Boys 3-18 Years

OPEN MORNING

FRIDAY 4th MARCH Come along and discover more about our forward-thinking, inspirational School where pupils develop a genuine love of learning and participate in a wide range of enriching, co-curricular opportunities

D IS COV E R ING

talent

To attend, please register at www.thekingsschool.co.uk

For more information call 01452 337337 or email admissions@thekingsschool.co.uk 10 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022

primarytimes.co.uk/gloucestershire

Gloucestershire Advertising features

CORKBOARD Snowdrops go Rococo Nestling in a hidden valley, Painswick’s Rococo Garden is a fantastic place for families to explore. Whether navigating the maze, playing hide and seek, spotting quirky features with the free family trail or enjoying the rustic woodland play area, there’s plenty for all.

February is a great time to visit the garden, home to one of the largest collections of snowdrops in the country. The wonderful display forms a carpet of white which has been delighting generations of visitors. It is difficult to predict when the display will be at its best and for how long, so check the website for flowering updates.

Also free parking, plus cakes and freshly-ground coffee at the café, so pre-book for a fun day.

Painswick Rococo Garden Open daily over half term, 10am–5pm W: www.rococogarden.org.uk

It’s Taurus time This half term, why not get involved in some of Taurus Crafts’ terrific family activities? They’re available, every day from Saturday 19 to Sunday 27 February, making it easy to plan your time together.

It’s not just about the little ones.

Taurus Crafts has options for parents to enjoy a relaxing family day out too, as they explore a great range of independent arts and crafts shops.

Afterwards, why not have a delicious, locally sourced family meal, or a slice of freshly baked cake with a coffee, at the onsite café?

The centre is part of the Camphill Village Trust, which supports people with special needs, so you’ll be helping a great cause on your day out, as well. Check their website and social media for more info.

Taurus Crafts Tw: @tauruscrafts W: www.tauruscrafts.co.uk

primarytimes.co.uk/gloucestershire

Confidence through karate Making friends and bringing communities together through karate is the main focus of Samurai Martial Arts (SMA). This year the club celebrates 20 years of teaching karate to the communities of Gloucester, Cheltenham and surrounding areas. By combining Japanese etiquette and discipline with the British sense of fair play SMA has helped its members achieve their personal goals.

Founded in June 2001 by Brian Jarvis, SMA has taught thousands of students of all ages. Many have achieved black belt and beyond, attending competitions at home and abroad and winning titles.

The club provides classes to children of all ages, teens and adults.

Through long-term practice it sees shy pupils grow in self-confidence as their ability improves. Free trial classes available at all SMA venues.

FFI: Samurai Martial Arts T: 07971 584901 W: www.samurai-martialarts.co.uk

Feeling anxious?

You’re not alone!

The Parenting with Anxiety Project at the University of Sussex is focused on finding ways to help parents and children navigate the world with confidence. If you feel anxious, you may find yourself feeling worried about your children. The project’s research shows that, with the right support, parents can help their children become more confident. They now want to find out if families will benefit from an eight-module online course. If you would describe yourself as high in anxiety with a child aged 2 to 11, they would love you to join them.

Half of the parents will do the course and the others will just answer questions, but everyone will play an important role in helping children with anxiety.

Parenting with Anxiety W: www.parentingwithanxiety.org.uk

Parents’ and teachers’ news, resources and contacts Swim fun in the sun Join Sandford Parks Lido for a summer of family fun! Between the end of March and mid-October, the outdoor pool runs children’s swimming lessons and Rookie Lifeguard courses, as well as family memberships and fitness classes for adults. The lido has also announced the return of its Aqua Fun Friday sessions where you can challenge each other on its inflatable course.

The lido runs a variety of events throughout the season including an outdoor cinema, live theatre and music performances, a junior triathlon and its annual dog swim - there’s something for everybody!

To find out more or to book your tickets, visit the website.

Sandford Parks Lido W: www. sandfordparkslido.org.uk

Make a splash at Slimbridge Grab your wellies and waterproofs for the Puddle Jumping Championships, the ideal rainy day activity the family.

Perfect your splash to win a prize!

Explore Mission Possible and meet the world’s rarest goose, the nene (pictured). Learn how WWT founder Sir Peter Scott brought the species back from the brink of extinction.

Become a Wetland Hero with Slimbridge’s app, created by Aardman, and unlock the secrets of Slimbridge - take on fun challenges suitable for the whole family.

Awe at amazing amphibians in Toad Hall and marvellous mammals at Back from the Brink. Stimulate the senses with the Wetlands Interactive Sandbox and see what landscapes you can create!

WWT Slimbridge wwt.org/slimbridge FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022 11

Gloucestershire

CORKBOARD Go Whittington!

Come rain or shine, the Dick Whittington Park is the place to visit for family fun, exercise and relaxation. Set in a beautiful location the park offers a large indoor heated play barn with slides, climbing frames, trampolines, a climbing wall and wavey mirrors. Enjoy the Hidden Valley nature trails around the park: wander the lakes and pathways into the ancient wood, and experience the Gloucestershire apple orchard.

The Who’s Who Gallery gives an insight into famous Gloucestershire characters including J.K. Rowling and Eddie the Eagle. Food and drink is available in the restaurant with picnic areas around the Park and Sensory Garden. Dogs welcome outdoors.

Dick Whittington Park T: 01452 831000 Fb: Dick Whittington Park W: www.dickwhittingtonpark.co.uk

Kumon’s Free Trial The Kumon Maths and English Programmes enable students of all ages and abilities to develop into confident, independent learners with strong study skills.

Research shows Kumon students significantly outperform their classmates. An independent study revealed that Kumon students are over a year ahead of the national average and over six months ahead of their peers in their learning at the end of primary school.

Your local Kumon Study Centres in Gloucestershire are offering a free trial from the start of February until Tuesday 15 March 2022 for all new students.

To take advantage of the Free Trial offer and find out how Kumon study can help your child to shine, contact your local Instructor to book a consultation.

Kumon: search your postcode on W: www.kumon.co.uk

Parents’ and teachers’ news, resources and contacts A summer to remember From toddlers to teens to parents, the whole family is guaranteed a holiday to remember at Marlborough College Summer School from 10 July to 6 August 2022.

Junior Troopers (ages 3-6) and Children’s Activities (ages 6-9) have a packed programme of arts and crafts, music, sports and outdoor games. Like the adults, Young Adventurers (ages 9-12) and Teenagers choose from a huge range of morning and afternoon courses, which run all week. Young people can attend Summer School at the college with their families, or as day students. Working parents may use Childcare Vouchers or tax-free scheme Childcare Choices to help pay for courses.

Marlborough College Summer School W: summerschool.co.uk.

10 July to 6 August 2022

Request a brochure today and discover over 500 courses waiting for you.

Exciting new setting in Stroud this this Easter!

01672 892388 summerschool.co.uk

12 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022

primarytimes.co.uk/gloucestershire

Gloucestershire Advertising feature

Shh! Learning by stealth…

H

ow many of us have wondered what it would be like to be a spy? All those gadgets, secret messages and stake-outs are just part of the exciting world of international espionage. But being a spy involves a lot more than a briefcase full of gadgets. It involves developing skills such as understanding codes, gathering data and, most crucially, how to make good decisions.

Critical thinking is the ability to logically evaluate information and situations to make the best decisions. These skills can be applied in many areas of life, including the school curriculum, and the techniques can be developed through teaching and practical tasks.

If your child loves mysteries and puzzle solving, now is their

Advertising feature

Where caring, confident pupils achieve chance to spend three days of spy training and crime prevention, while developing a wide range of skills!

Cotswold Education is offering a new Spy Academy experience for Year 5 and 6 students where they can have fun while learning many new skills including code cracking, clue gathering and solving an international crime mystery. This live interactive adventure involves videos, physical puzzles and teamwork under the guidance of the team of experienced and highly qualified educators who act as trainers and guides over the three days.

To find out more and to book a place, visit the website below or contact Cotswold Education.

Spy Academy UK W: www.

SpyAcademyUK.com E: cotswoldeducationuk@gmail.com T: 07976 218062

Advertising feature

Creative, crafty family fun

C

raft Festival Cheltenham returns for its fourth event at Cheltenham Town Hall from Friday 11 to Sunday 13 March. The festival offers a creative, fun, and inspiring family day out.

A hundred of the finest designer-makers come together from across the UK for a celebration of craft, design, and shopping.

The event also includes live craft demonstrations by members of the Gloucestershire Guild, bookable workshops, and a free action-packed programme of activities for children.

“We’re bringing back the best in British craft to Cheltenham,” says Sarah James, director at

N

ewent Community School and Sixth Form Centre not only serves Newent and Acting Principal surrounding villages but Rhys Gloucester City, the Forest Phillips with of Dean and Herefordshire. pupils This caring and supportive 11 to 18 mixed comprehensive The report vindicates Newent’s school operates dedicated bus drive to develop confident, well services for students living in the informed and caring young adults Gloucester City and Forest of who fully participate in their Dean areas. communities; the school provides It is a high achieving school many opportunities for students at the very heart of the commuto achieve this. nity with a strong tradition of Parents can access a full virtual academic success and a positive, tour of the school through the QR caring learning environment. code on the school’s advert (back As Ofsted’s March 2018 report page). They are encouraged to confirms, Newent continues to use this resource and to contact be a good school offering a high the school to discuss their chilquality education. It recognises dren’s options with senior leaders. that students make strong progress in most subjects while feeling safe, and being safe in school, Newent Community School thanks to Newent’s culture of care and Sixth Form Centre T: 01531 and vigilance.

820550 W: newent.gloucs.sch.uk Advertising feature

Craft Festival. “Whether you love jewellery, ceramics, glass, textiles, woodwork or furniture, we have a fabulous collection of the finest designer-makers.”

The highly entertaining, immersive free children’s craft activity programme is led by Jim Parkyn, clay model maker and acclaimed Aardman Animation Ambassador, who’ll invite visitors of all ages to take part in his ;Amazing Scene Machine’ workshops.

Also, interactive craft workshops are led by jeweller Sally Davis and stoneware ceramics maker Adrian Bates, members of the Gloucestershire Guild. Workshops sell out quickly, so early booking is recommended.

Advance tickets Tickets to Craft Festival Cheltenham are on sale now, with advance booking important again this year. Ticket prices start at just £7 for a pre-booked adult day pass, and children under 18 visit free with an adult ticketholder.

See website for full details, tickets and safety measures.

Craft Festival Cheltenham W: craftfestival.co.uk/cheltenham

primarytimes.co.uk/gloucestershire

Enriching education since 1541

F

or parents looking for a forward-thinking, pupil-centred, inspirational education for their child, a visit to The King’s School in Gloucester is a must. The school’s open morning on Friday 4 March, is a great opportunity to see the school on a typical day and witness its teaching and learning in action.

King’s is a leading independent day school with just over 680 girls and boys aged 3 to 18.

Adjacent to Gloucester Cathedral, which is integral to its life, the school has a special identity.

Whilst its history and surroundings are inspiring, King’s provides something even more valuable, a genuine love of learning. It does this by offering stimulating lessons in small classes and by encouraging children to pursue their personal interests; the range of co-curricular activities in sport, music, performing and creative arts is truly enriching.

Individual talent and excellence is celebrated, while pupils of all ages have a strong sense of community, soon becoming supportive team members. This blend of personal achievement and team spirit is a defining qualitiy of King’s.

Pastoral care is also a high priority. Working in close partnership with parents, the school creates a secure environment where children of all abilities can thrive and be happy.

If you don’t know King’s, there’s nothing better than seeing the school in action and experience its unique environment for yourself.

Visitors are warmly welcomed to King’s next Open Morning, Friday 4 March. Please pre-register.

The King’s School T: 01452 337337 W: www.thekingsschool. co.uk E: admissions@thekingsschool.co.uk FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022 13

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FOR THE KIDS

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Family tickets to Craft Festival Cheltenham

Which activity will not be taking place at Craft Festival Chelteham from Fri 11-Sun 13 March? a) Sally Davies Enamelled Jewellery demonstration b) Sessions with Aardman animator Jim Parkyn (right) c) Welly throwing with Adge Cutler Please send your answers to gloscompetitions@primarytimes.co.uk before Tue 1 Mar marking your entry CRAFTFEST and including your mobile phone number. Winners will be chosen at random from the correct answers. Please see primarytimes.co.uk/gloucestershire

A field mouse by Sam

If you’d like to enter Petey’s next art competition about...

Getting messy outdoors

send your pictures to Petey the Parrot, Starfish Publishing, The Create Centre, Smeaton Road, Bristol BS1 6XN or high resolution images to gloscompetitions@primarytimes. co.uk

by Monday 7 March.

Don’t forget to put Petey’s Arty Party in the subject line, include your name, age, school and home address so we can send you the prize. See primarytimes.co.uk/gloucestershire/ tcs for competition terms and conditions.

Number crunching

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rganisers of Craft Festival Cheltenham at Cheltenham Town Hall this March (see article P13) have kindly offered two adult weekend passes (under 18s go free) to Primary Times readers.

For a chance to win one, correctly answer the question below (for clues visit craftfestival.co.uk/Cheltenham):

14 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022

Primary Times’ mascot Petey the Parrot loves your paintings.

Why not enter his art competition? You may end up winning a prize to spend on art materials or other fun stuff.

Here are some brilliant pictures painted by previous winners.

YS Y SA P E T E N T I N G! PAI GET

DOWN 1 A white flower which blooms in 12 early spring (8) 13 14 15 2 Spot on! (5) 3 Magnificent mammals with very 16 17 18 long noses (9) 19 20 5 To know or comprehend something (10) 21 22 6 Another word for cartoons and the second part of the name of that famous movie maker Aardman (10) 23 24 7 Britain’s only venomous snake (5) ACROSS 11 A very long time indeed (3) TOO 2 Spot on! (5) HARD? The these (7) 1 Children slide down slopes on 3 Magnificent mammals with very long 14 noses (9) last bit, the credits, the final Why not ask a t for food and sold in tins (4) 5 To know or comprehend something (10) these (7) chapter of a book (6) grown-up for 6 Another word for cartoons and the second part of the name of that famous Children 4. A large sea fish, often caught formakerideas?

15 To leave or depart (2) movie Aardman under 7 (10) will hing to do with computing (abbreviation) (4) 7 Britain’s only venomous snake (5) food and sold in tins (4) 17 Often made up of verses and find the yellow or computer to work, sometimes it’s best to do 11 A very long time indeed (3) clues easier.

8 Both a colour and a fruit (6) rhymes, these pieces of writing often 14 The last bit, the credits, the final chapter of a book(6) make us think more deeply about in a wall (7)9 A fantasy or ideal (5) 15 To leave or depart (2) 17 Often to made of verses life and rhymes, 10 General description for anything doupwith (5) these pieces of writing often make us w years...” (3) think more deeply about life (5) computing (abbreviation) (4) 20 An upright, pointed shape 20often Anused upright, pointed shape often used for for doors or windows (4) slippery liquid to perhapsdoors used foror cooking or heating.

12 If you can’t get your phone21orA computer windows (4)(3) walk with (3) work, sometimes it’s best to do this to it (5) 21 A slippery liquid perhaps used for cooking dried grass (8) 13 A doorway, maybe, or a hole in a wall (7) or heating (3) 16 The highest point (3) in early spring. (8) Answers on our Facebook page, 18 Finish this expression,”a few years...” (3) PrimaryTimesGloucestershire after 19 Thoughts, brainwaves (5) publication.

22 Requirement (4) 10

TWO £10 AMAZON VOUCHERS TO WIN!

3 1

How to play this mini-sudoko: fill the empty boxes with a number from 1 to 4.

Each box, each row and each column contains all four numbers but the same number cannot appear twice in the same box, row or column.

The joke’s on us Question: Why couldn’t the pony sing a lullaby?

Answer: She was a little horse.

primarytimes.co.uk/gloucestershire

Gloucestershire

Win!

TICKETS TO

WYCHWOOD FESTIVAL

W

in three days of fun for the whole family! The amazing Wychwood Festival, at Cheltenham Racecourse from Friday 3 June to Sunday 5 June, has music aplenty and lots for children. There’s artists including Deacon Blue, Sophie Ellis-Bextor and Boney M, plus a brilliant Children’s Area with workshops, kids’ literature, performers, magicians and more!

Wychwood has very kindly offered readers of Primary Times Gloucestershire the chance to win one of four sets of family

tickets for the weekend. To be in with a chance of winning, simply answer the following question correctly.

Which famous DJ is also appearing at this year’s Wychwood Festival? a) Ken Bruce b) Sarah Cox c) Craig Charles

(For clues check wychwoodfestival.com) Send answers to gloscompetitions @primarytimes.co.uk with the subject WYCHWOOD including your phone number so we can contact you by Sunday 5 March.

Please see primarytimes.co.uk/ gloucestershire/tcs for terms and conditions.

Classifieds CRAFTS

Paint -aPot

For all your dancewear needs •Ballet •Tap •Modern • Home delivery service •Jazz • Gymnastics •Paint your own ceramics • www.colourdancewear.co.uk Gifts •Decopatch • Parties and events • • 07814 391050 • • 01453 766910 • www.paint-a-pot.co.uk

TUITION LONGLEVENS TUITION Help for Primary Children with

To advertise here call Mike on 01452 937123

taurus crafts half term activities 19th until 27th Feb 2022

Maths & English, Eleven Plus Dyslexia & Dyscalcula.

Online lessons always available Mrs Manley, NNEB, BSc (Hons), PGCE.

Gloucester (01452) 387228

"I wouldn't wish my anxiety on my worst enemy."

Help test a course designed to prevent children developing anxiety.

If you are a parent who experiences anxiety and has a child aged 2-11 find out how you can make a difference.

parentingwithanxiety.org.uk

Children’s creative activities throughout school holidays Taurus Crafts, Lydney, GL15 6BU - enquire@tauruscrafts.co.uk 01594 844841 - www.tauruscrafts.co.uk

primarytimes.co.uk/gloucestershire

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022 15

Newent Community School and Sixth Form Centre

NEWENT COMMUNITY SCHOOL AND SIXTH FORM CENTRE

SCAN ME

STRONG track record of academic success OPEN and friendly environment OUTSTANDING pastoral care EXTENSIVE community sports facilities FANTASTIC performing and creative art opportunities

Judged

‘GOOD’

by Ofsted 2018

Striving for

Excellence

If you are looking to select a school for September 2022, please contact the school to discuss your options and visit our website to access our full virtual tour.

www.newent.gloucs.sch.uk Mr Rhys Phillips, Acting Principal Watery Lane, Newent, Gloucestershire GL18 1QF Tel: 01531 820550 Email: admin@newent.gloucs.sch.uk | Web: www.newent.gloucs.sch.uk | Twitter: @newentschool