Welcome to the new school year! I hope you had a lovely summer and a huge hello to our new families who have just started school. We publish seven magazines throughout the academic year, providing a ‘what’s on and where to go’ guide for families in Berkshire. You’ll find lots of child-friendly events, activities and days out in each issue, along with local news, special offers, school updates and competitions too.
This first issue of the year contains our annual Schools Guide for those of you who are needing to apply for a secondary school place for September 2026. Have a look for details of your local schools, handy tips and Open Day dates so that you can plan some visits.
We have a selection of upcoming events and days out over the coming months, so take a look at those to make the most of your family time this autumn. Plus, head to page 26 to look at options for extracurricular activities, we have something to suit every child.
We will be back in October full of half term fun ideas, but until then, enjoy the first term of school!
04 EDUCATIONAL NEWS
06 SCHOOL GUIDE 2025
ENJOY AUTUMN
WOW
BOX OFFICE
COMPETITIONS
Educational NEWS
With it being the start of a brand-new school year, we wanted to share some interesting articles before we focus on our annual guide to secondary schools on the following pages.
Supporting autistic learners through interestbased learning
BY HAYLEY FULLER
By embracing the unique ways that autistic children experience and understand the world, educators have a powerful opportunity to reshape learning not only for those with diagnosed needs but for all students. One of the most effective approaches for supporting autistic learners is interestbased learning – an approach that validates a child’s passions and uses them as a bridge to engagement, skill development, and emotional safety. What is interest-based learning?
Interest-based learning, sometimes called “passion-led learning,” focuses on using a learner’s individual interests as the foundation for curriculum design and teaching strategies. For autistic students, this approach taps into their natural areas of focus – whether it’s dinosaurs, trains, graphic design, or computer programming – as an entry point into broader skills like literacy, numeracy, critical thinking, and social communication. Many autistic learners thrive when they are given the time and space to explore their passions. Interests can serve multiple functions: they help manage anxiety as regulators, they spark engagement as motivators, and they provide familiar contexts through which new learning can be processed as translators.
Why this matters for autistic children
Autistic children often experience education as something that happens to them, not with them. Conventional learning environments frequently require them to mask their needs, suppress their instincts, and conform to social and sensory expectations that are exhausting and overwhelming. Interest-based learning shifts the power dynamic. It says: We see you. We value how you think. Let’s build on that.
About the writer
Hayley Fuller is a SEN and EYFS Specialist Teacher. She has been working in this field for over 20 years and is also the founder of Creative Teaching Ideas, a community platform for educators and parents who would like ideas to support children with their creative learning abilities. She is also a regular contributor to educational publications, and a creator of SEN courses, workshops and resources. W: www.hayleyfuller.co.uk
Shaun the Sheep launches nationwide prize draw for schools that sign up for Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day
This year, Shaun the Sheep will return in his woolliest role yet –as Save the Children’s ‘Head of Wool’ for Christmas Jumper Day –and to celebrate his co-knit-ment to the charity fundraiser, he is launching a nationwide prize draw for schools.
Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day is taking place on Thursday 11th December and Shaun is encouraging Primary schools and Secondary schools up and down the country to ‘Be a sheep. Follow the herd. Join the flock’ by signing up to take part.
Schools that register by Monday 1st December will be in with the chance of winning a baa-rilliant prize thanks to Shaun the Sheep’s creators, Academy Award®-winning animation studio Aardman, and Save the Children.
• The winning Primary school will receive a day of Model Making Workshops, which includes 3 x 1 hr sessions with up to 60 children per session. The workshop will need to be hosted by the school and can take place any time up to 12 months from Christmas Jumper Day 2025.
• The winning Secondary school will receive a day of Animation Workshops, which includes 2 x 1.5hr sessions with up to 30 children per session. The workshop will need to be hosted by the school and can take place any time up to 12 months from Christmas Jumper Day 2025. There will also be some fabulous runners-up prizes on offer, so sign up your school now to be in with a chance to win! Sign up now at www.christmasjumperday.org
Reading Boys Candidates Course in line with the newly announced changes to the entrance exam. Also continuing our successful GL course for Kendrick candidates.
For more information call Fiona on 0118 929 1631 or email fwyeth@sde11plus.com
Everyone is welcome to visit our Open Evening. There will be opportunities to speak to students and staff, visit our faculties and view our excellent facilities.
OPEN CLASSROOMS
Thursday 16th Oct at 6pm - 7pm a short presentation from the Headteacher followed by an opportunity to speak with key members of staff regarding life at Trinity.
Please reserve your place by visiting the school website: www.trinitynewbury.org or contacting: office@trinity.newburyacademytrust.org We look forward to welcoming you to our school Trinity School, Love Lane, Newbury Berkshire RG14 2DU
A thriving independent boarding and day school for girls aged 11-18, offering a tailored education in a nurturing environment.
Join us at one of our upcoming open events to discover all we have to offer.
• Small class sizes
• Flexi-boarding options
• Superb facilities
• Outstanding pastoral care
• Daily local bus routes
Book your visit today or register your interest in future events at: www.stgeorges-ascot.org.uk
School GUIDE 2025
It’s the time of year when parents of Year Six pupils need to apply for secondary school places for next year. We have a breakdown of schools across the county in this handy guide, and details of Open Days too.
Choosing a secondary school: Some questions to ask!
Primary Times is committed to helping you make the best choice of secondary school for your child
Secondary education is almost always very different in approach to primary education and choosing a secondary school for your child is a really tough and high-pressured decision. Exam results are important but you need to know whether the school you are thinking about is a school you believe that your child can thrive in.
To a great extent the questions parents need to ask prospective secondary schools are about how well the school will meet the needs of your child. So, if your child has specific needs, even if it is about making and keeping friends, then ask the secondary school what pastoral support is in place to help develop and encourage friendships.
Great secondary schools often have a head of year who follows the year group as they move through school. In our case, we know that we can email the head of year and he will follow up any concerns as the school wants the children to be happy and settled which will help them to achieve their best.
I’d also be asking about where students go on to after Year 11 (if the school has no sixth form). Talking to sixth form colleges about how well prepared the students who come from secondary schools are, is an important consideration.
Finally, the school where your child has been educated for the past seven years will know your child and will know the local secondary schools. Ask the school head which secondary school your child would be best attending and why. It will give you another perspective as to how well your child might settle and learn.
Making decisions about your child’s future secondary school, based on the narrow measures from Ofsted and DfE is only part of the picture. It’s worth doing the legwork as described above as this is the school that will support your child over the next 5 years and onto GCSEs.
By Andy Mellor: a national leader of education and Head Teacher of St Nicholas C of E Primary, Blackpool.
RBWM
DIARY DATES
l You must apply for a secondary school place by 31st October 2025
l 3rd March 2026 is National Offer Day, when parents will find out which school has been offered for their child
l You must apply for a place at a school, even if it’s linked to your child’s current primary school
Putting Girls First
The Abbey is a remarkable multi-award-winning 3-18 all girls community of learning and brilliant experiences, It is a place of curiosity, adventurous spirits, and the excitement of discovery. We focus on individual care and attention in a warmly supportive atmosphere full of fun and laughter. Our students have the assurance to take risks, explore interests and passions, and engage generously with the world and with each other. Our results are outstanding, but what matters to us is how students achieve them. Our goal is to equip girls to live with confidence, purpose, and joy. This means providing exceptional
YEAR 7
opportunities across the widest spectrum of learning and activities. We offer more choice in our curriculum than almost any other school, so that students lead their learning and mature into the people they mean to be. What’s special about The Abbey is the atmosphere. We’re a diverse, down-to-earth community full of enthusiasm, spark, and energy. The best way to get a feel for the school is to visit on an ordinary weekday. Being in the halls for one lesson, feeling the buzz all around you, give you a sense of The Abbey spirit. We’d love to welcome you and for you to meet some of our students. Come and visit us anytime, we’re always ready to welcome new members to our community. www.theabbey.co.uk/events
WINNER
Independent Girls’ School of the Year 2024
Year 7
Scholarship Application Deadline Friday 26 September
Registration Deadline Wednesday 15 October
Visit
Scan the QR code to register
the-abbey-all-girls/register/
At Brakenhale School, our values of Aim High, Be Kind and Take Responsibility permeate everything that we do. Our recent Ofsted inspection confirmed that our overall judgement is “Good” and that we provide “high expectations for student achievement”, with a “calm and orderly atmosphere where students feel safe” - so please come along to experience our school.
Academy in Action Tours
During September and October
BRACKNELL FOREST
Brakenhale School
Rectory Lane, Bracknell RG12 7BA
King’s Academy Easthampstead Park
Ringmead, Bracknell RG12 8FS
Edgbarrow School
Grant Road, Crowthorne RG45 7HZ
Garth Hill College
Bull Lane, Bracknell RG42 2AD
King’s Academy Binfield
St George’s Park, Binfield, Bracknell RG42 4FS
Ranelagh School
Ranelagh Drive, Bracknell RG12 9DA
Sandhurst School
Owlsmoor Road, Sandhurst GU47 0SD
Rectory Lane, Bracknell, RG12 7BA
Tel: 01344 423041
READING
“Pupils
Slough Consortium of Grammar Schools
September 2026 Entry
The Slough Consortium of Grammar Schools consists of Herschel Grammar School, Langley Grammar School, St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School and Upton Court Grammar School. We operate a shared 11+ entrance examination process using the same examination papers and common eligibility mark in the test. The 11+ examination for entry in September 2026 will be held for registered children on Saturday 20 September 2025. Please note that the registration for the 11+ examination has now closed. The full schedule for the Slough Consortium of Grammar Schools 11+ entrance examination process can be found on the schools’ websites.
Open Evenings
You are invited to visit and view the Slough Consortium Grammar Schools at their open evenings.
Herschel Grammar School
Wednesday 8 October 2025 | 5.00-8.00pm
St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School
Wednesday 24 September 2025 | 5.00-8.00pm
Langley Grammar School Thursday 2 October 2025 | 4.30-7.30pm
Upton Court Grammar School Tuesday 23 September 2025 | 4.30-7.00pm
For further details about our Open Evening please contact the individual schools or visit our websites.
Waingels Open Evening Thursday 2nd October 5pm-8pm Waingels Open Mornings Tuesday 7th October 8:40am-10:20am Wednesday 8th October 8:40am-10:20am
Online bookings for Open Evening and Open Morning will be by appointment only. Please continue to check our website for updates on our Open Events and how you can book. Our Year 6 to 7 Transition webpage is full of information, videos and a virtual tour for you to start exploring!
St Crispin’s School London Road, Wokingham RG40 1SS
Waingels Road, Woodley RG5 4RF
Thursday, 18th
Open Evening
September 2025
Thursday, 18th
September 2025 Ope n Mornings Septe mber22 , 24, 26 & 29
Thursday, 18th
Ope n Mornings Septe mber22 , 24, 26 & 29
Evening Thursday, 18th September 2025 Open Mornings Septe mber22 , 24, 26 & 29
October1 & 3
October1 & 3
October1 & 3
October1 & 3
September 2025 Ope n Mornings Septe mber22 , 24, 26 & 29
To book your place please scan the QR code or go directly to the school website www.forest.wokingham.sch.uk pen Evening Thursday, 18th
To book your place please scan the QR code or go directly to the school website www.forest.wokingham.sch.uk
To book your place please scan the QR code or go directly to the school website www.forest.wokingham.sch.uk
To book your place please scan the QR code or go directly to the school website www.forest.wokingham.sch.uk Open Evening Thursday, 18th September 2025 Open Mornings
To book your place please scan the QR code or go directly to the school website www.forest.wokingham.sch.uk Open Evening
Open Evening
Thursday, 18th
September 2025 pe n Mornings Septe mber, 24, 26 & 29
Septe mber2 , 24, 26 & 29
Open Evening Thursday, 18th September 2025 Ope n Mornings Septe mber22 , 24, 26 & 29
September 2025 Ope n Mornings Septe mber22 , 24, 26 & 29
October1 & 3
October1 & 3
October1 & 3
October1 & 3
To book your place please scan the QR code or go directly to the school website www.forest.wokingham.sch.uk
To book your place please scan the QR code or go directly to the school website www.forest.wokingham.sch.uk Open Evening
To book your place please scan the QR code or go directly to the school website www.forest.wokingham.sch.uk
INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS
School Name and Address
Pangbourne College Pangbourne, Reading RG8 8LA
Queen Anne’s School
Henley Road, Caversham RG4 6DX
Reading Blue Coat School
Holme Park, Sonning-on-Thames RG4 6SU
St Gabriel’s Sandleford Priory, Newbury RG20 9BD
St George’s School Ascot Wells Lane, Ascot SL5 7DZ
PREP SCHOOLS
Extracurricular TIME
Taking part in activities outside of school can help to develop a child’s talent or skill, keep them active and broaden their interests. They can also be a lot of fun and where many friendships are made!
Luso International Fencing
www.lusointernationalfencing.com
As students return, the team celebrate five years of Luso International Fencing. In an incredible season, their U14 squad earned Luso’s first European medal – a silver at the EFC – and the U14 boys’ epee team won gold at the British Youth Championships. Beyond medals, Luso is where children gain confidence, forge friendships, and learn discipline in a safe, supportive environment. Newcomers transform into skilled fencers under expert coaching, while weekly sessions spark laughter, camaraderie, and personal growth. As the new term begins, children are invited to join Luso, where sport, strategy, and fun combine to create unforgettable experiences.
CREATIVE ATHLETIC DISCIPLINES
Reading TaeKwonDo Academy 07766 125735 • www.reading-tkd.com
Courtesy, integrity, perseverance, selfcontrol and courage. These are the tenets of Tae Kwon Do. Master Lynne’s TaeKwonDo Academy has over 30 years’ experience guiding people through this martial art, creating focus, discipline, developing self-confidence, while teaching goal setting. They offer classes starting from age four through to separate teen and adult classes. Improving concentration helps them academically along with developing fitness with kicking and punching skills in a fun, controlled environment. If you are looking for a new way to stay fit, gain self-defense skills, discipline and confidence whilst making new friends, Master Lynne’s TaeKwonDo Academy may well be the right choice! Get in touch for a FREE trial lesson.
Pinewood Gymnastics Club offers classes for all ages and abilities in newly refurbished facilities. During the day they run a variety of pre-school classes designed to develop a child’s balance, co-ordination, spatial awareness, and body control. Pay as you go Pay + Play classes are also available. In pre-school classes, they offer the first structured session as free trial. Get in touch to book one of these classes. Afterschool and on weekends there are classes for children Reception age and upwards. Children will be using gymnastic apparatus and will develop their gymnastic skills in a safe and fun environment. In these classes, Pinewood offers one taster session (structured classes only). Qualified British Gymnastics coaches are on hand to coach, help and encourage the children. Spaces are available for the Autumn Term – contact the team if you would like to enrol in a class or for more information.
Code Ninjas
www.codeninjas.co.uk
Arty Class artyclassuk@gmail.com www.artyclass.co.uk
Does your child love art? Would they like to develop their drawing and painting skills? Arty Class’s comprehensive, six-year curriculum is designed to inspire your child as they explore, learn and create. They will take them on a journey of artistic discovery through their engaging, child-centred classes. Arty class was set up last year by Adrienne, pursuing a lifelong passion for art. Beginning with two after school classes last September, Arty class now has almost 150 students across Reading and Wokingham! The theme this autumn is Portraits. Children will be introduced to the basic proportions of a human face, create a pet portrait and experiment with pencils, gouache, charcoal, soft pastels and more.
Start a new routine this school year with Code Ninjas! Give your child a head start by helping them learn valuable, life-changing STEM skills for the future – all while building their very own video games! At Code Ninjas, kids aged 5-14+ gain real coding skills in a fun, supportive environment that builds confidence, problem-solving abilities, and a love for technology. With flexible after-school and weekend sessions, children learn at their own pace through hands-on experiences in coding, robotics, game design, and more. Their signature 9-Belt Programme lets kids level up using real programming languages like JavaScript, Python, and C#. Plus, they are thrilled to announce their brand-new AI Academy – coming soon! Designed for kids aged 8-14+, this exciting new programme features over 100 hours of hands-on content where Ninjas will explore how AI works, how to use it responsibly, and how to create with it. From generating art and music to writing stories, coding, building robots, and even solving real-world problems as part of a final applied project, Ninjas will build the skills they need to thrive in an AI-powered world. Ready to turn screen time into skill time? Schedule a FREE game building session today.
FOOTBALL PERFORMING ARTS
Footlights Theatre Dance School
07884 493819
www.footlightstheatredanceschool.co.uk
Enrolling now for all age groups! Join Footlights for themed ballet classes designed for children aged 3-5 years, where imagination, fun, and confidence take centre stage! They offer classes in ballet, tap, modern and freestyle for children over five years old. Classes are run by qualified and experiences teachers, based in Slough. Contact Miss Nicola to book your FREE trial!
We Make Footballers
www.wemakefootballers.com/windsor
We Make Footballers is the UK’s #1 rated football academy for children, offering weekly training, matches and holiday camps for boys and girls aged 4-12. At their Windsor Academy, they cater for every child, whether your child is at the start of their football journey, they want professional coaching or they want the opportunity to showcase their skills to professional football clubs. Highly qualified and experienced coaches create a professional, fun, energetic and safe environment, to ensure that your child is learning in a positive atmosphere and developing their social skills, while their winning formula to player development and strict 1:10 coach to player ratio ensures they will develop into the best player they can be. Visit their website to sign up for your FREE trial.
Razzamataz
01635 905404
newbury@razzamataz.co.uk www.razzamataz.co.uk
Give your child the gift of confidence and join in the fun at Razzamataz Theatre School in Newbury! Their fun and funky classes in drama, singing and street dance will give your child the opportunity to make new friends and keep fit, while developing their self-confidence, communication and team-working skills! On top of this, there are lots of extra opportunities to perform – such as London’s West End or Disneyland Paris. It’s not too late to join in the fun! Call Debbi or check online for details of classes and times, and to book your space.
Stagecoach
www.stagecoach.co.uk
Stagecoach Performing Arts was founded in 1988 and continues to grow as the UK’s largest network of extra-curricular performing arts schools for children, with 60,000 students enrolled in weekly classes worldwide. One of the first extra-curricular children’s performing arts schools in the country, they aim to inspire students, making a difference in their lives by teaching Creative Courage For Life®.
With over 300 franchisees and 3,000 schools and classes worldwide delivering 5,000 hours per week, Stagecoach has a global presence with schools in countries including Canada, Germany, Malta, Spain, Gibraltar, Australia and Lithuania. Notable alumni are Emma Watson, Jamie Bell, Eleanor Tomlinson, Tuppence Middleton, Tom Fletcher, Dani Harmer, Josh Cuthbert, Danny Mac and Charlotte Jaconelli. Find your local Stagecoach to get started.
Kumon
www.kumon.co.uk
Take Advantage of Free Registration when enrolling at Kumon this autumn! Developed over 60 years and delivered through a network of Kumon centres and experienced Instructors, the Kumon Maths and English Programmes are perfect for instilling a lifelong love of learning in children. Your child can choose to study using KUMON CONNECT, which makes their tried and tested worksheets even more accessible and convenient for students to study using their tablet and stylus. Your local Berkshire Kumon Study Centres are offering Free Registration, a saving of up to £65, to all new students between 16th September and 31st October 2025. Check online to find your closest participating centre and contact your local Instructor.
THROUGH PLAY
Kids aged 5 -14 learn to code by building games in our fun, safe and inspiring centres
Our Code Ninjas Camps empower kids to gain valuable tech skills and make new friends It's an unforgettably fun learning experience!
Susan Daughtrey Education fwyeth@sde11plus.com www.susandaughtreyeducation.com
Explore exciting topics like AI, Minecraft, robotics, Roblox, video game development, and much more!
SDE offer weekly classes for both Year 4 and Year 5 11+ Preparation Courses. All their courses offer very thorough and effective preparation for your child. For more information, please visit their website or get in touch. CODING THROUGH GAME BUILDING
Susan Daughtry Education (SDE) provide 11+ Courses in Lower Earley for Kendrick School, Reading Boys School and the Slough Consortium. Their courses comprise of the topics found in these 11+ tests: verbal reasoning, numeracy, English, non-verbal reasoning. This year Reading School (for boys) have changed their test to include questions from any subject from the KS2 curriculum as well as a piece of Creative Thinking. SDE have responded to this by completely rewriting their course to take these subjects into account.
SWIMMING
Better Swim School
www.better.org.uk/lessons
Help your child become a confident, strong swimmer for life! With passionate teachers and a supportive environment, they are dedicated to not only teaching vital swimming skills for life, but also creating a lifelong passion for the water. Join an accredited teaching programme tailored to children aged 4-16 years, with interactive lessons designed to boost water confidence and skills. Certified swim teachers are committed to your child’s safety and development, with ability-based lessons to ensure targeted attention and rapid advancement. In addition, Better Swim School offers consistent lesson days and times for uninterrupted progress through levels. Enjoy unlimited public swim access outside of lessons for extra practice and fun too! Find your local venue online.
Everyone Active
www.everyoneactive.com/centre
Make a splash and stay active this September! After a jam-packed summer holiday season, now is the perfect time for families to take the plunge back into health and fitness. Whether that’s beginning swimming lessons as children go back to school or booking a swim-inspired children’s party – there are fantastic options available on your doorstep from Everyone Active centres across Berkshire. Award-winning swimming lessons are run at Northcroft Leisure Centre, Hungerford Leisure Centre, Kennet Leisure Centre and Willink Leisure Centre – all run by Everyone Active in partnership with West Berkshire Council – to help keep families active while learning a vital life-saving skill.
Meanwhile in Slough, The Centre and Langley Leisure Centre also offer Everyone Active’s swimming programme which delivers lessons for all ages and abilities. Child classes start at four months and run right through to adult classes. Both facilities are run by Everyone Active in partnership with Slough Borough Council.
Birthday parties can also be booked at Everyone Active centres for a fun and adventurous way to celebrate a child’s special day. These range from pool inflatables to bouncy castles and soft play where little ones can climb and explore. For further information, pop into reception or check online.
Earley Swim School
07960 536050
www.earleyswimschool.co.uk
The small classes at Earley Swim School and having the teachers in the water ensure every swimmer gets personal attention, helping children progress faster. Parents are welcome on the poolside to watch their child’s lessons each week. Most of their swimmers reach key milestones and progress through Stages faster, thanks to the hands-on teaching and positive, supportive environment. Book your child’s space now.
HydroKidz
www.hydrokidz.com
Looking to give your child a confident new beginning this September? HydroKidz weekly swimming lessons are the perfect way to start the school year strong – building swim skills, water safety and fun from the first splash in modern, clean, private venues! With small class sizes (typically four children per teacher), HydroKidz offers expert instruction in a supportive and engaging environment for children aged three and up. Whether they’re just starting out or working towards advanced strokes, their qualified teachers tailor lessons to each swimmer’s needs. Boost water confidence, technique, and safety – all term long. Spaces fill fast. Secure your spot now for a fresh start this September!
Puddle Ducks
www.puddleducks.com
Puddle Ducks teaches children from birth to 10 years, to swim independently, confidently and to love and respect the water. Swimming is a journey, not a destination and at Swim Academy, children learn and have fun all the way! Lesson plans are accredited by the leading international swimming body, STA. Technically, they focus on beautiful swimming and the right technique. The programme deconstructs each stroke in a unique way. Their highly trained and qualified teachers are experts at identifying children’s levels of ability and adapting activities to the individual and encouraging natural skills. Weekend Swim Academy lessons are available. FREE trials (t & c’s apply) and sibling discount offered.
St Joseph’s Swim School
www.sjcr.org.uk/swim-school
St Joseph’s Swim School in Reading offers high-quality swimming lessons for children aged four and up, as well as adults. Lessons take place in a dedicated, heated teaching pool, with small class sizes – just six swimmers per group, ensuring individual attention and steady progress. Following the Swim England Learn to Swim Programme, experienced instructors focus on building confidence, technique and water safety in a supportive and structured environment. They offer FREE taster sessions, weekly term-time lessons and popular crash courses during school holidays. Led by a team of competitive swimmers and qualified teachers, this swim school caters to a wide range of abilities. Lessons cost £13.20 for a 30-minute session, with flexible payment options available including Tax-Free Childcare and childcare vouchers. With free parking, a calm, focused atmosphere and a strong emphasis on personal progress, St Joseph’s Swim School helps learners of all ages build essential life skills in the water.
Enjoy AUTUMN
The children are back to school and leaves are starting to turn, but this colourful season brings with it some great family days out to choose from, making it easier to fill weekends with fun activities.
Fun all-dayer from Readipop at Reading University
Get ready for a day of music, fun, and family-friendly activities at Readipop Fiesta 2025, happening on Saturday 13th September at the Reading Students’ Union! This lively indoor-outdoor festival offers a packed programme of live music, interactive workshops, tasty food stalls, and exciting activities for all ages, rain or shine!
Perfect for families, the Fiesta includes brilliant hands-on experiences like circus skills workshops, where kids (and grown-ups!) can learn to juggle, walk on stilts and more. There’s also a vibrant mix of performances, crafts, and entertainment to keep everyone smiling throughout the day. With much of the event held indoors, you can enjoy the full festival atmosphere without worrying about the weather. Whether you’re dancing, playing, or just soaking up the fun, Readipop Fiesta is a late summer highlight you won’t want to miss. Tickets are available now at www.readipop.co.uk/festival and all profits support Readipop music charity!
Maidenhead Comic Con
Sunday 5th October
Bolt Events is thrilled to be returning to Braywick Leisure Centre for Maidenhead Comic Con! Pop along to meet your favourite characters, take selfies with amazing movie cars, and browse dozens of stalls with fantastic merchandise. Visitors can take part in FREE activities including retro gaming, face painting, photo opportunities, get up close and personal with your favourite dinosaurs, enter competitions, enjoy some workshops and more! Tickets are available to purchase now, please visit the website for more details. W: www.bolt-events.com/maidenhead-comic-con
Greenham becomes a hive of artistic energy with two exciting events
The Base’s Festival of Arts & Crafts running from 13th to 27th September invites visitors to explore local talent through a striking art exhibition, hands-on workshops and a lively craft fair on its opening weekend (13th and 14th September). Families can enjoy spray painting, live music, delicious food, and even have ‘paw-traits’ of their dogs made or contribute to a giant doodle wall.
During the same weekend nearby on Greenham Common, Corn Exchange Newbury’s 101 Outdoor Arts programme presents Creative Commons (13th and 14th September), which marks 25 years since the land returned to a public space with a joyful, free outdoor celebration. From aerial circus and street theatre to music, dance, and storytelling, the event offers something for all ages. With both events taking place on the weekend of Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th September, it’s the perfect time to immerse yourself and your family in community creativity! W: www.cornexchangenew.com
Strike into the new school year at Bowl Central
Get ready for unbeatable family fun this autumn at Reading’s newest entertainment hotspot. Bowl Central offers state-of-the-art bowling lanes, an exciting redemption arcade, immersive AR darts, American pool tables, and a tasty food and drink menu – all under one roof. Whether it’s an after-school treat, a weekend with friends, or a birthday celebration, they’ve got you covered.
Plus, celebrate the new term with a special competition – see details on page 39 and enter for your chance to win £100 worth of bowling and arcade fun at Bowl Central! It’s the perfect way to enjoy quality time with family and friends.
Located on Caversham Road with free parking, or it’s only a short walk from Reading Station. Open daily from morning ‘til late. For bookings visit www.bowlcentral.co.uk
Make magical memories at Wasing’s Pumpkin Event
This autumn, on selected dates from the 17th until 31st October, get ready for an enchanting time at Wasing’s Pumpkin event! Wander along a magical woodland trail bursting with autumn colour in the heart of Wasing Estate. Collect a wheelbarrow and explore the pumpkin patch – there’s a perfect pumpkin waiting for everyone! Strike a pose by the fairytale carriage for a photo to remember. Afterwards, cosy up with mouth-watering seasonal snacks, delicious sweet treats and hot drinks beneath the stretch tent, overlooking scenic parkland. Don’t miss out! Visit www.wasing.co.uk/pumpkins or follow @Wasing1759 for more details.
Fireworks Spectacular Family Raceday at Ascot Racecourse
Saturday 1st November
During half term, head to Ascot’s Fireworks Spectacular Family Raceday for an action-packed day out bursting with excitement for all ages! Plus, kids under 18 go FREE with a full-paying adult. This much-loved autumn event kicks off the Jumps season featuring thrilling races on the track, including the prestigious Gold Cup Premier Handicap. Off the track, families can enjoy free spooky activities, classic fairground rides, and live entertainment perfect for little ones (and grown-ups too!). Then, as the sun goes down, over 20,000 fireworks light up the sky in a dazzling display, as ‘ooh’s, ‘ahh’s and ‘wow’s fill the stands. Horses will jump. Sparks will fly. Spectators will be spellbound. Raceday tickets include fireworks display admission. Book now at www.ascot.com
KIDS GO FREE
SKILLS TO LAST A LIFETIME
Give your family essential skills and confidence in and around water. Save a spot with Swimbies for babies and toddlers, Better Swim School for kids or swimming lessons for adults.
Swimming Lessons with Better
South Hill Park ’s Autumn Family Shows
This autumn, South Hill Park are serving up three unmissable shows guaranteed to spark imaginations. First up, history gets a hilarious twist in Horrible Histories: Gorgeous Georgians and Vile Victorians – packed with revolting facts, mad monarchs, and plenty of laughs. Then it’s time to get messy with Claytime, an interactive, hands-on storytelling adventure where your child’s imagination leads the way. Finally, a spectacular stage version of Roald Dahls Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, a delicious magical treat. Whether it’s half term fun or a weekend adventure, the Wilde Theatre awaits you. Book your tickets today!
Already dreaming of Christmas? South Hill Park proud-lay present their pantomime, Mother Goose and the Golden Egg. This classic tale has undergone a major modern twist makeover. Packed with laugh-out-loud moments and TikTok-inspired dances, this show will have kids off their screens and on the edge of their seats. Miss the scramble and book early! W: www.southhillpark.org.uk
Spectacle of Light returns to Welford Park
Running on selected evenings from 17th October until 9th November, Spectacle of Light offers you the chance to view the much-loved paths of Welford Park from a different perspective and discover new sights along the way. A timeless experience for all ages.
Enjoy this beautiful, illuminated trail through the majestic woodland and around the gardens all lit under the stars. Sip delicious hot chocolate (why not add marshmallows or kinder bueno?) and spiced cider as you meander along this beautiful trail. Take a moment by the house to tuck into scrumptious hot food. The bar offers mulled cider, local ales and wines plus soft drinks and tea and coffee. There is a covered bar with plenty of tables and chairs. Parking is free so take your time and enjoy your evening on the grounds. W: www.welfordpark.co.uk/event/spectacle-of-light
WOW
What’s on Where in Berkshire
ONGOING
All Weather Family Fun
The Living Rainforest www.livingrainforest.org
Step into a thriving tropical glasshouse and spot amazing creatures like Cinnamon the sleepy sloth and Edwin the cheeky toucan! Open daily from 9.30am-4pm. Little adventurers can grab an activity booklet for just £1, full of fun facts and a rainforest trail to explore.
Bowling Fun
Bowl Central Reading www.bowlcentral.co.uk
Enjoy boutique bowling on stylish lanes, challenge your mates to a game of pool or darts, and sip on expertly crafted cocktails from the vibrant bar. Perfect for a night out with friends, a day out with the family, or some after-work fun. There is also an arcade for more entertainment.
Until Sunday 9th November
The Yucky You Show
The Look Out Discovery Centre www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk
Filled with interactive, exciting experiments and demonstrations all about the amazingly yucky bits of the body, this 40-minute-long discovery show gets into the science of you!
This show is suitable for children age three years and up and will run on weekends and school holidays until Sunday 9th November.
Saturday 6th September
Young Rangers
Nature Discovery Centre www.bbowt.org.uk
A wildlife club for children aged 8-11 who love nature and wildlife.
Sunday 7th –
Sunday 28th September
September Sundays
Reading Museum www.readingmuseum.org.uk
The Museum is open on Sundays during September with special activities and events. Open 11am-5pm.
Thursday 11th September
Home Educator’s Day
Woolley Firs, Maidenhead www.bbowt.org.uk
An immersive day of outdoor learning for Home Educating families focussing on the natural ponds and their importance.
Horrible Histories:
Gorgeous Georgians & Vile Victorians
Tue 14 Oct
1.30 & 4.30pm
Claytime Sat 25 Oct 11.30am & 2pm
Box office 01344 484123 southhillpark.org.uk
and
Saturday 13th September
Readipop Fiesta 2025
Reading Students’ Union www.readipop.co.uk/festival
This lively indoor-outdoor festival offers a packed programme of live music, interactive workshops, and tasty food stalls, plus brilliant hands-on experiences like circus skills workshops, where you can learn to juggle, walk on stilts and more. There’s also a vibrant mix of performances, crafts, and entertainment throughout the day. With much of the event held indoors, you can enjoy the full festival atmosphere without worrying about the weather! All profits support Readipop music charity.
Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th September
Creative Commons
Corn Exchange Newbury www.cornexchangenew.com
Marking 25 years since the land returned to a public space with a joyful, free outdoor celebration. From aerial circus and street theatre to music, dance, and storytelling, the event offers something for all ages!
Saturday 13th –
Sunday 27th September
Festival of Arts & Crafts
The Base, Greenham www.cornexchangenew.com
Explore local talent through a striking art exhibition, hands-on workshops and a lively craft fair on its opening weekend (13th & 14th September). Families can enjoy spray painting, live music, delicious food, and even have ‘paw-traits’ of their dogs made or contribute to a giant doodle wall.
Give your child the gift of confidence! Fun and funky classes in drama, singing and street dance giving children the opportunity to make new friends and keep fit, while developing their selfconfidence, communication and team-working skills.
We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip…or promise!
Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st September
Newbury Show
Newbury Showground www.newburyshowground.co.uk
Don’t miss this Country Show with a huge variety of attractions – livestock, machinery, equine classes and shopping along with demonstrations and talks on topics from Crop Spraying to Junior Masterchef! With live music throughout the day and into the evening, three different rings with events throughout the day, and food and drink available across the site!
Saturday 4th October –
Saturday 1st November
Brick or Treat
LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort www.legoland.co.uk
The LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort will be transformed into a pumpkinfilled wonderland for what is sure to be the most frightfully fun event of the year, perfect for the young, and the young at heart!
Sunday 5th October
Maidenhead Comic Con
Braywick Leisure Centre www.bolt-events.com/ maidenhead-comic-con
Meet your favourite characters, take selfies with amazing movie cars, and browse dozens of stalls with fantastic merchandise. Visitors can take part in free activities including retro gaming, face painting, photo opportunities, get up close and personal with dinosaurs, enter competitions, enjoy some workshops and more! Tickets are available to purchase online.
Wander along a magical woodland trail bursting with autumn colour, collect a wheelbarrow and explore the pumpkin patch – there’s a perfect pumpkin waiting for everyone! Strike a pose by the fairytale carriage for a photo to remember. Plus, seasonal snacks, delicious sweet treats and hot drinks are available beneath the stretch tent, overlooking scenic parkland. Running on selected dates.
Sunday
19th October
Swimathon
St George’s School, Ascot www.windsorlions.co.uk/swimathon
This major charity event allows you to raise funds for your nominated organisation by entering a team of swimmers to swim for 55 minutes, gaining sponsorship for their efforts, whilst having a great time! All ages and abilities welcome, the youngest swimmer so far has been five years old. Windsor Lions organise the whole event – all you have to do is enter, get sponsorship and swim!
Say
Arborfield 07532 725204
Bracknell Central 07814 722830
Bracknell, Easthampstead 07366 640004
Maidenhead Central 07410 154915
Saturday 1st November
Fireworks Spectacular
Family Raceday
Ascot Racecourse www.ascot.com
An action-packed day out bursting with excitement for all ages! This event kicks off the Jumps season featuring thrilling races on the track. Off the track, families can enjoy free spooky activities, classic fairground rides, and live entertainment. Then, as the sun goes down, over 20,000 fireworks light up the sky in a dazzling display. Raceday tickets include fireworks display admission. Kids under 18 go FREE with a fullpaying adult.
Reading, Earley 07532 799598
Reading Tilehurst 07379 629294
Wokingham 07903 053997
Woodley 07887 848443
Box OFFICE
Some of the best family shows on stage for now, plus some more to book ahead for later in the season.
Corn Exchange Newbury www.cornexchangenew.com
Friday 10th –Sunday 12th October
THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR SHOW
Four timeless stories brought to life in one delightful show – a vibrant celebration of Eric Carle’s adored classics and the perfect introduction to live theatre. You can also take part in a fun preshow workshop where you can make your own caterpillar and butterfly puppets.
Sunday 19th October
SWAN LAKE
Widely regarded as the most iconic ballet of all time, Swan Lake is a masterpiece of Tchaikovsky’s genius. Featuring some of the most memorable music and breathtaking choreography, this production brings to life a timeless tale of love, betrayal, and redemption. 4pm. Suitable for all ages.
Tuesday 28th –Thursday 30th October
STICK MAN
Touching, funny and utterly original, Freckle Productions’ delightful adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Stick Man is back in town!
Norden Farm Centre for the Arts norden.farm/events
Wednesday 29th October
THE GREAT BALDINI – THE FAMILY MAGIC SHOW
Family Magic Show is a chance to see two magical superstars at the very pinnacle of their powers. A Joyously silly romp. Guaranteed to have children (and parents) screaming with laughter.
Thursday 30th October
WIFI WARS
WiFi Wars returns with a very spooky version of the live comedy game show where you all play along! Log in with your smartphone or tablet and compete in a range of games, puzzles and quizzes to win the show, and prizes!
We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip… or promise!
Reading Arts www.whatsonreading.com
Saturday 27th September
THE DINOSAUR THAT POOPED
When Danny and Dino’s favourite rock band are playing their last ever concert, they go on a quest to get the last two tickets. But with a villainous band manager lurking, nothing goes to plan. Will the band perform? Will Danny rock out? Or will Dino’s rumbling tummy save the day?
Sunday 28th September
TAYLORMANIA
A Taylor Swift Eras Tour tribute. An award-winning extravaganza that plays tribute to one of the leading contemporary recording artists of our time. Katy Ellis a self-obsessed ‘Swiftie’ with an incredible live band and dancers promises to deliver the most authentic recreation of a Taylor Swift show you will ever see!
Tuesday 30th September
TIM
PEAKE –
ASTRONAUTS
Up until now, Tim has brought his own incredible journey to life through unparalleled storytelling and extraordinary archive footage. In this new show, Tim will share the remarkable stories of some of his fellow astronauts and explore the spectacular evolution of space travel.
South Hill Park www.southhillpark.org.uk
Tuesday 14th October
HORRIBLE HISTORIES – GORGEOUS GEORGIANS & VILE VICTORIANS
We all want to meet people from history! The trouble is everyone is dead! So it’s time to prepare for Horrible Histories live on stage with the acclaimed production of Gorgeous Georgians and Vile Victorians! Are you ready to swing with a Georgian king? Can you see eye to eye with Admiral Nelson? Does the Duke of Wellington get the boot? Dare you dance the Tyburn jig? Will you be saved by Florence Nightingale? Find out what a baby farmer did and move to the groove with party Queen Victoria! Don’t miss this horrible history of Britain with the nasty bits left in!
Saturday 25th October
CLAYTIME
A play with clay, where the audience are invited to participate. A place where the earth’s natural material meets with children’s imaginations: a world of fabulous forms, amazing animals and morphing monsters. Each Claytime is totally unique – creating its own world, its own characters and its own stories drawn directly from its young audience. Truly, interactive theatre at its most engaging. This show is made with and for 3 to 6 year olds.
HORRIBLE HISTORIES | SOUTH HILL PARK
Chance To WIN
To enter these competitions please email competitions@primarytimesmag.com When you enter make sure you give us your name, address, email, child’s age and school. Good luck! Please note: Primary Times will only use your details to contact the
You’ve got the chance to enjoy the night-time wonder of Welford Park through a wonderful Spectacle of Light because we’ve partnered up to give away two Family Tickets!
Enjoy this gorgeous, illuminated trail through the gardens featuring stunning light installations accompanied by atmospheric music. Walk through the ever-changing Kaleidoscope, immerse yourself in the Carpet of Colour and be enchanted by the sparkling Light Beams. Taking place on selected dates between 17th October and 9th November.
To win one of two Family Tickets on offer, simply send in your entry marked ‘Welford Park’ with your preferred date and time, and you will be placed in our prize draw, with the winners drawn at random.
Family Tickets are for a family of four, please specify your chosen date and time, find details on www.welfordpark.co.uk
HydroKidz offer small group swimming lessons for children from age three, for all swim abilities. Lessons are held in private venues, ensuring a comfortable, safe environment for your child. As a Swim England accredited school, HydroKidz boasts over a decade of experience with dedicated, fully qualified instructors.
To have a chance of winning a £50 voucher towards the cost of swimming lessons with HydroKidz, simply send your entry in marked ‘HydroKidz’ and you will be placed in our prize draw, with a winner drawn at random. For details of venues and days/times for lessons, please check their website www.hydrokidz.com
Bowl Central is Reading’s newest entertainment hotspot, perfect for family fun. Located on Caversham Road it is easily accessible on foot from Reading Station or has free parking available on site.
We’re giving one lucky winner the chance to enjoy an action-packed day out at Bowl Central with two games of bowling and 40 arcade credits each for up to five people! Challenge your friends or family on state-of-the-art bowling lanes, then head to the arcade to rack up tickets and win prizes. It’s the perfect mix of friendly competition, laughter, and memories – all under one roof. Send in your entry titled ‘bowling’ for your chance to bag this incredible prize and make your next day out one to remember!
