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Issue 177 19 Jul-2 Sep 2013
Smashing
Also Dance schools Summer days out Elephants calling
Science!
Gromit unleashed in At-Bristol Science Centre. Page 4
Theatre • Arty Barty • Roundabout • Save money! 13 Avon cover Summer 2013.indd 3
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Summer’s here and it’s a delight to watch the excitement of the kids as they anticipate their summer holidays. But, once the away-break is over, delight can turn to exhaustion for parents and boredom and frustration for the children: the search for gainful and creative family activities gets more challenging with every week. That’s where we hope to help, with a bumper Roundabout section packed with events, not to mention our Summer Day’s Out feature (P32). We also look at dance tuition (P6), and Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, near Bristol (P39). So don’t fret when the main holiday’s over. There’s plenty to do closer to home.
THEATRE P8 ROUNDABOUT P13 PINBOARD P25 ADVERTISING FEATURES P28 PUPILS’ PAGE P40 With new Wordsearch!
CLASSIFIEDS P42 LET’S DANCE P6
Richard Hattersley salsas round the region’s dance schools, with tips for getting started.
THE GREAT OUTDOORS P32
Adventure and activities at the West Country’s attractions and beauty spots.
NEWS EXTRA! P44
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Two pages of local initiatives affecting you.
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the editor
Sep 2013 19 Jul-2 Issue 177
Also ols Dance scho out Summer days calling Elephants
Science! Smashing
ashed Gromit unle
Theatre • Arty
Barty
VIEW THE MAGAZINE ONLINE AT www.venue.co.uk/early-times-primary-times www.primarytimes.net • www.facebook.com - Arty Barty
tre. Page 4 l Science Cen in At-Bristo ey! t • Save mon • Roundabou
Primary Times in Avon
Venue Publishing at Bristol News and Media, Temple Way, Bristol BS99 7HD. More information at www.primarytimes.net and more places to visit at wwww.venue.co.uk Editor Mike Gartside mike.gartside@venue.co.uk Commercial director Becky Davis becky.davis@b-nm.co.uk 0117 934 3780 Advertising Caroline Stretton caroline.stretton@b-nm.co.uk 0117 934 3737 Ruth Morris ruth.morris@b-nm.co.uk Distribution Simon Butler 0117 934 3741 simon.butler@b-nm.co.uk Design Cath Evans, Dan Srokosz, Mike Gartside Proof reading Alex Saunders Production Emma Gorton Main office 0117 942 8491 Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in Primary, Junior, Infant and Middle Schools throughout the former Avon area, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire. It is also available by subscription at £10 per year. Its aims are to inform families and children of current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses and attractions, and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or joining in the competitions which we run. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically biased 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. While we make every effort to ensure information published is accurate, readers are encouraged to check details of all events in advance and neither Venue Publishing nor its contributors are liable for the consequences of any errors. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in the county for their assistance in distributing the magazine and 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 the relevant contributor. Primary Times currently publishes more than two million copies per issue under franchise.
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Find these amazing offers this issue! Bristol Old Vic - first 50 tickets to each show £10 Brean Fun City – buy two get third free with advert. Bristol Aquarium – kids go free with advert. Cattle Country – 10% off for up to 4 people with advert. Clearwell Caves - £2 off every child with full paying adult with advert. Everyone Active – extra 25% off adult membership. Explore Learning – join in July and save 25% on your first month. Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm - £2 off admission. Ogam Igam – 5% off when you use the checkout code. SeaQuarium - £2 off for up to six people. Table Table (Hobbs Boat Inn) – kids eat free Mon-Sat, pre-5pm with purchase of adult meal. Westonbirt Arboretum - kids go free
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As 80 painted sculptures of Gromit are unleashed in the city, At-Bristol joins the fun with a host of activities based around Aardman’s famous dog and his chum Wallace.
Smashing
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spiring animators can meet real-life experts from Bristol’s worldfamous Aardman studios, who’ll introduce you to the world of model-making, teach you the tricks of the trade, and share their top tips as they help you to cut, mould, shape, squish and create your very own Gromit in a model-making masterclass (see below for details). Once your creations are ready to star on the silver screen, bring them to life in ‘Animate It!’, At-Bristol’s unique animation exhibition. Let your imagination run wild as you plan the storyboard – will you make a slapstick comedy, a tense thriller or a classic adventure? Once you’ve planned the plot, it’s time to take to the director’s chair: set the scene, direct the action and add sound effects to produce an Oscar-worthy masterpiece that you can save and send home to watch again with your friends and family!
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Meet
Science!
here’ll also be plenty more great Gromit activities over the summer in At-Bristol. Super-sleuths can put their detective skills to the test with ‘Where’s Gromit?’, a handson challenge for the whole family: Gromit’s picked out his favourite At-Bristol exhibits, so see if you can crack the clues and work out where he’s been hiding. Wallace and Gromit themselves will be visiting At-Bristol every day over the holidays, so if you’ve always wanted to meet the famous duo, now’s your chance – just don’t forget the camera. You can also tick off two Gromit Unleashed sculptures as you complete the trail around the city – there’ll be one in the entrance foyer and one outside on Millennium Square. Get your trail passport stamped too – and make sure you’ve got a full set by the end of the summer!
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f Wallace and Gromit have inspired you to put your engineer’s hat on and think of ingenious ways of making things work, then get together with your family and friends to put your engineering skills to the test in the ‘Fly by Wire Live Lab Challenge’. Investigate different ways of powering a flying craft, exploring by trial and error under the guidance of Rolls Royce experts. Choose a Create propulsion system, design the aerodynamics and put your aircraft to the test along a wire track to see if you have what it takes to master the art of flight!
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f course, At-Bristol is also packed full of hundreds of interactive exhibits and hands-on science for everyone to enjoy, from running in a giant hamster wheel to walking through a tornado, Play and from storytime for toddlers to exploring the inner workings of the human body. Discover more about the latest discoveries in science – from atoms right through to astrophysics – with
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the ‘Explore Your Universe’ family show, and take a journey to the stars with an expert-led Planetarium show, learning more about the science of outer space and discovering the planets and constellations you can see from your own back garden this summer!
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inally, once you’ve enjoyed a great day out in At-Bristol, you can pick up a Gromit gift or memento from the shop, or pop into the café for a well-deserved break from all that exploring and creating – try a special Gromit cookie from a full range of freshlyprepared meals, hot drinks and homemade treats. For full details on everything going on in At-Bristol over the summer and to pre-book tickets, visit at-bristol.org.uk, or call 0845 345 1235 (lines are open Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm). Model-making workshops will take place on Thursdays and Saturdays throughout the summer holidays (25 July-31 August) and cost £3 per person in addition to standard admission prices – it is anticipated that they will be very popular so please book ahead to avoid disappointment. Workshops are recommended for children aged 4 and over. At-Bristol Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB T: 0845 345 1235 W: www.at-bristol.org.uk PRIMARY TIMES
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Richard Hattersley waltzes, tangos and salsas his way round the region’s dance schools.
LET’S DANCE!
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he popularity of television shows such as ‘Britain’s got Talent’ and ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ may have had children pirouetting around the living room, or even tap dancing in the kitchen. However, there is so much more to dance than those spangled outfits and judge Len Goodman’s incessant cries of ‘Seven!’ after a blistering tango. Moving from the comforts of the sofa and into one of the many dance schools in the region can be an enriching experience. For shy children, participating in dance can help infuse them with confidence, while for the more extrovert, it can be a wonderful outlet for their natural showmanship. Janine Veale, principal of the Avon School of Dance has seen how dance has helped hesitant children. “We try to make the class about having fun,” she says. “We like a really friendly atmosphere, which helps the children lose their inhibitions and increase their selfesteem.” Pauline Reynolds, principal of the Westbury Park Dance Centre agrees that those first dance steps can be daunting for a child but points out that a fun atmosphere can quell their worries. “We never reprimand a young child,” she says. “Instead we believe in encouragement.” The activity can have other benefits as well, helping parents encourage their children to take 60 minutes of vigorous physical exercise a day - the latest government advice on keeping kids healthy. Dance provides the perfect opportunity for children
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teachers themselves. Whatever your child wants from dance, the schools in the area offer an eclectic mix of classes, from tap and ballet to modern and jazz, to name but a few. They’ll find dance opens up so many ways to have fun, while staying fit and learning skills that will stand them in good stead for the rest of their lives.
Students at Westbury Park Danc e Centre
to keep fit without even realising it, and socialise with their friends at the same time. As Felicity Redgrave of the Bristol School of Dancing points out, “Any exercise is good exercise. Dancing is not only a good work out but great cardiovascular activity. You certainly see a vast difference in children’s posture.” With all these benefits, there’s no need to wait for your little Darcy Bussell or Billy Elliot to grow into their ballet shoes, as there are classes for children as young as two-and-a-half. Kathryn Pearce of First Steps School of Dance has seen how classes can be instrumental in enhancing children’s development. “Through pretending to be a princess or an animal, the children get to use their imaginations,” she says. “Teaching them a few steps helps them with their movement and memory.” The same techniques are also used to great effect in assisting disabled children. Lisa Pugh of Stepping Out School of Dance finds that the activity has therapeutic benefits. “Through dance, children with autism learn the basic form of movement to music for them to explore and feel free,” she explains. As children progress through school, dance continues to aid their development. You may find your tiny dancer has a stronger
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TOP TIPS
Go with a friend and have fun together.
Don’t worry about making a mistake. You can’t fail through trying.
Avon Dance Academy W: www.avondanceacademy.co.uk Bristol School of Dancing W: www.thebristolschoolofdancing.co.uk First Steps School of Dance W: www.firststepsdance.co.uk Stapleton School of Dancing W: www.stapletonschoolofdancing.co.uk Stepping Out School of Dance W: www.steppingoutdance.co.uk Westbury Park Dance Centre W: www.westburyparkdance.co.uk Vicky’s Dance W: www.vickysdance.com Wingfield School of Ballet and Dance W: www.wingfieldschooldance.co.uk Children can start from as young as two-and-a-half
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If you’re feeling shy ask if you can just watch. Then join in when you feel more confident.
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Bring water to stay hydrated.
Be committed: if you want to become as good as the dancers on television you have to be prepared to practice. sense of concentration, focus and listening skills which are all learnt through the structured teaching of dance. Parents will benefit from this hard work when they watch children perform on stage, in competitions and performances. These shows offer valuable experience, preparing them for the stresses of exams later in their schooling. By attending dance classes, your children could one day cha cha cha out of the living room and on to the stage, or even become PRIMARY TIMES
7/2/2013 11:58:45 AM
Back To School Shoes Children’s Specialist Shoe Shop
- Loyalty cards available - Large selection of children’s shoes - Specialist fitting service - Width fitting available 33-35 Southmead Road Henleaze, Bristol BS10 5DW Telephone 0117 962 9746 / 0117 924 7474 www.rightfootfirst.co.uk
Come and try a dance class at
Westbury Park Dance Centre RAD Ballet...ISTD Tap, Modern and Jazz. Pre-school from 3 yrs... to Adult classes Children entered for exams, Shows and Festivals. For further information Tel. 0117 9683 682 Email. westburyparkdancecentre@hotmail.com
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DANCE?
6/26/2013 11:57:02 AM
THE BRISTOL SCHOOL OF DANCING… ……naturally! www.thebristolschoolofdancing.co.uk
★ Ballet, Tap, Jazz-Pop, Street, Hip-Hop, Zumba dance classes ★ ★ Disabled and special needs welcome ★ ★ Ages 18 months to adult ★ ★ FREE Trial lesson ★ ★ Pay as you go ★ ★ ISTD RAD studied ★ Stepping Out School of Dance Shirehampton Primary School, St Mary’s Walk, Shirehampton, Bristol BS11 9RR Tel 01454 615463 Mobile: 07971 099706
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FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SHOWS ★ BRISTOL, BATH, SOMERSET & SOUTH GLOS style. Enter the magical world of Neverland where the stage is set for a thrilling adventure.
BATH BATH CITY FARM Kelston View, Bath BA2 1NW. Monkey and Crocodile Sat 20Sun 21 Jul. 11am & 3pm. £5/£16 family • In conjunction with the egg theatre, Metta Theatre brings an old Indian fable of friendship and betrayal magically to life. Tickets and further info from the egg (see below). Ages 3+. THE EGG Theatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath BA1 1ET. 01225 448844, www.theatreroyal.org.uk Fireside Tales with Granddad Sat 20 Jul. 11.30am & 3pm. £7.50/£6.50 • Lucid soundscapes combine with impressive puppetry to create the magic of a fireside setting for everyone’s favourite Grandad. Ages 5+. Yer Tiz Sat 21 Sep. 11.30 & 3pm, £7.50/£6.50 • Performer Nick White travels from Bath to Chard, meeting some unlikely inhabitants, including a pirate and a dragon, in his quest to find the perfect place to live. Ages 6+. Tube Thu 26 Sep. 10.30am & 1pm, £7.50/£6.50 • A variety of tubes puff out gentle breezes, sounds and scents to entrance young audience. For 6 months-2 years. Yummm! Sat 5-Sun 7 Oct. 11.30am & 3pm (Sat & Sun), 10.30am & 1pm (Mon). £7.50/£6.50 • Dance theatre celebrating all that’s messy
At the egg, Bath, 1-2 Feb
Dora the Explorer, Hippodrome, Bristol, 26-28 July
– and yummy – at meal times. Ages 2-4 (Sat-Sun), ages 4+ (Mon). Wash Fri 11-Sat 12 Oct. 10.30am & 1pm (Fri), 11.30am & 3pm (Sat). £7.50/£6.50 • A gentle adventure for younger children. I Believe in Unicorns Fri 18-Sun 20 Oct. 1.30pm (Fri), 11.30am & 3pm (Sat), 2pm (Sun). £7.50/£6.50 • The story of a little boy who thinks he doesn’t like books, adapted from the story by Michael Morpurgo. Ages 5-11. Toro! Toro! Mon 21-Tue 22 Oct. 1.30pm (Mon), 10am & 7.30pm. £7.50/£6.50 • An adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s book set in the Spanish Civil War. ‘Toro! Toro!’ captures the drama and tragedy of growing up in the heat of war.
Review The Elves and the Shoemaker Tobacco Factory Theatre, Bristol.
Appealing to the younger end of the Primary Times age-range, this re-working of The Grimms’ famous fairy tale sees the hapless Sam Lacey struggling to sell his shoes - made of bread and other unorthodox materials - while fielding angry emails as his inspired but unpractical ideas don’t quite work out. He and his well-meaning neighbour, Belinda, face an impossible task until perfectly crafted shoes start to appear in Sam’s flat as he sleeps. The creators of these magical shoes are, of course, the elves of the title, and children howl with laughter as Sam and Belinda search high and low for them, introducing them to theatrical traditions that will last a lifetime. Stuff and Nonsense Theatre Company have created a wonderful blend of puppetry and stagecraft, complete with inventive props (I like the use of a laptop to bring the story up to date), to launch school starters on their theatrical journey. (Mike Gartside)
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Once Upon a Western Tue 26 Oct. 11.30am & 3pm. £7.50/£6.50 • Expect live music, buckets of ridiculousness and a whole host of colourful characters. Comedy club 4 Kids Thu 28 Oct. 11.30am & 3pm. £7.50/£6.50 • Some of the biggest names in comedy perform family-friendly routines without any rude bits. The Tin Soldier Wed 30 Oct-Sat 2 Nov. 11.30am & 3pm. £7.50/£6.50 • A tin soldier falls in love with a paper ballerina – but true love never can run smoothly and he falls into an adventure to test and melt the bravest of hearts. Ages 4+. Statik Fri 8-Sat 9 Nov. 10.30am & 1pm (Fri), 11.30am & 3pm (Sat). £7.50/£6.50 • With a soundtrack inspired by the 1920s film ‘Metropolis’, ‘Statik’ tells the story of a mysterious child’s voice which has been picked up on a radio transmitter from a rogue signal. Luna Thu 14 Nov-Sat 16 Nov. 1pm (Thu), 10.30am & 1pm (Fri), 11.30am & 3pm (Sat). £7.50/£6.50 • It’s lonely being the only moon, so Luna makes friends with a boy who’s hiding from the shadows on his bedroom wall. Together they go on an adventure to help him overcome his fear of the night time. Moominland Midwinter Fri 6 Dec-Thu 12 Jan, 2pm & 7pm, 1pm & 5pm (Sun), 11.30am & 3pm (New Year’s Eve). £10-£15 • The Moomins appear on stage for the first time in this Christmas fantasy for all the family. Waking early from his winter hibernation, Moomintroll sets off to explore a snowy Moominland, but the places which he knows so well in summer have all changed. Peter Pan Thu 12 Dec-Sun 12 Jan. Theatre Royal Bath main house. See website for times & prices. • J.M. Barrie’s classic tale is brought to life in swashbuckling
KINGSWOOD THEATRE Fonthill Road, Bath, BA1 5RQ, 01225 640046, www. baththeatreschool.com/tickets Honk! Fri 19-Sat 20 Jul. 7pm. £10 (adults) and £8 (under 16s) • Children from Bath, Wiltshire and Bristol perform in this Bath Theatre School production of the Hans Christian Andersen story of the ‘Ugly Duckling’. Honk! promises to be a sharp, witty musical coming of age story following ‘Ugly’, whose gawky looks attract unwanted attention. The cast is made up of local children aged 7-16 years under the expert guidance of BTS, led by seasoned performers with over 100 years’ experience between them.
BRISTOL THE BREWERY THEATRE 291 North Street, Southville, Bristol BS3 1JP. 0117 902 0344, www.tobaccofactorytheatre. com Bristol Festival of Puppetry Fri 30 Aug-Sun 8 Sep. See website for times & prices • Delight in a wide-ranging programme full of shows by some of the most consummate and skillful puppetry performers on our own doorstep and from the rest of the world. There will be something for all ages. THE BRISTOL HIPPODROME Saint Augustine’s Parade, Bristol BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012, www.bristolhippodrome.org.uk Giselle & Swan Lake Fri 19-Sun 21 Jul, £11-£40.50 • Sofia National Ballet perform two of the most classic and romantic ballets on their exclusive nine date tour of the UK. Dora the Explorer Fri 26-Sun 28 Jul. 4pm (Fri), 10am, 1pm & 4pm (Sat), 10am & 1pm (Sun). £19/£17 • Nickelodeon’s young explorer is brought to the stage and the audience are invited to search for the City of Lost Toys. Hairspray Tue 6-Sat 17 Aug. 2.30pm & 7.30pm & 2.30pm (Sun mat). £15-£48.50 • ‘Hairspray’ tells the story of Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart who sets out to follow her extraordinary dreams, inspire her mum and win the boy she loves. Cats Tue 15 Sep-Sat 26th Oct. 2.30pm & 7.30pm. £15-£45 •
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PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES!
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TS Eliot’s ‘Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats’ is brought to life with music in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s record-breaking show. THE BRISTOL OLD VIC King Street, Bristol BS1 4ED. 0117 987 7877, www.bristololdvic.org. uk The Boy Who Cried Wolf! Sat 13 Jul-Sun 1 Sep. 2pm & 7pm. £22/£20/£10 (first 50 tickets) • Returning to the open air outside the theatre, the creative team behind ‘Treasure Island’ and ‘Peter Pan’ unfold the famous storytelling slave’s parable, adapted by Michael Morpurgo. The Little Mermaid Thu 28 Nov-Sat 18 Jan. 2pm & 7pm (& 4pm on Boxing Day & New Year’s Day). £5-£30 • Hans Christian Andersen’s much-loved tale of a young mermaid willing to give up her life in the sea in return for a soul and the love of a young prince. THE COLSTON HALL Colston Hall, Colston Street, Bristol BS1 5AR. 0117 922 3686, www.colstonhall.org Room on the Broom Fri 20-Sun 22 Sep. See website for times, £11.50 • This enchanting tale of a witch, her cat and an overly-populated broom is sure to be a hit with the whole family. THE REDGRAVE THEATRE Percival Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3LE. 0117 315 7000. The Redgrave has no permanent box office so please book directly with the visiting companies listed below. Bedazzled Thur 25-Sat 27 Jul. 7.30pm & mat 2.30pm (Sat). £12. Tickets: 07517 388755 • Magician Daniel Dean and Bristol Musical Youth Productions combine for a song’n’dance’n’magic spectacular. TOBACCO FACTORY THEATRE Raleigh Road, Southville, Bristol BS3 1TF. 0117 902 0344, www. tobaccofactorytheatre.com Brouhaha: Comedy Club 4 Kids Sat 20 Jul. 4pm. £7.50 • Featuring George Egg, John Robins and Fin Taylor, this stand-up show aimed specifically at children aged 6-11
George Egg, at Comedy Club 4 Kids, Tobacco Factory Theatre, Bristol, Sat 20 Jul
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will give youngsters the taste of a grown-up comedy club without any of the rude words. The Magical Playroom with CBeebies’ Cerrie Burnell Sat 20 Jul. 11am. £9 • Inspired by her own childhood, Burnell’s magical shows reveal her youthful dreams of becoming a ballerina and how a powerful imagination can make such dreams come true. Hot Air Thur 25 Jul-Sat 10 Aug, 8pm & selected mats 2.30pm. £9-£14 • Myrtle Theatre present a touching and funny piece of theatre with music celebrating Bristol people and their balloons. Dance and music workshop, Mon 5 Aug, 9.45am & 11am for ages 2-5 and their carers.
FURTHER AFIELD THE BACON THEATRE Dean Close School, Shelbourne Road, Cheltenham GL51 6HE. 01242 258002, www.bacontheatre. co.uk Sherlock Holmes Thu 18 Jul. 7.30pm. £13 • This inventive and hilarious show for all ages features live music, audience interaction and more mystery than you can shake a magnifying glass at. Dotty the Dragon Sun 21 Jul. 5pm. £10/£30 family • Narrating the high jinks of Dotty the baby fire dragon, Blunderbus serve up an irresistible blend of music, puppetry and lashings of audience participation. This event is part of the open-air festival in the Tuckwell Amphitheatre. Jazz on a Summer’s Evening Sat 27 Jul, £16 • An evening of summer jazz, blues and boogie, all under the stars. EVERYMAN THEATRE Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573, www.everymantheatre.org.uk Guys and Dolls Sat 20-Mon 22 Jul. 5pm (Sat & Sun), 7pm (Mon) • Stagecoach and the Senior and Junior Everyman Young Company present this colourful musical set in New York City. Around the World in 80 Days Sat 27 Jul. 8pm • Outdoor production (in Sandford Parks Lido) of Jules Verne’s classic globetrotting adventure. Suitable for ages 4+. The Gruffalo’s Child Wed 21-Thur 22 Aug, 11am & 2pm • Tall Stories present their fun-packed production of the sequel to Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s famous yarn. LYDIARD PARK Lydiard Tregoze, Swindon SN5 3PA. 01793 770401, www.lydiardpark.org.uk Tales of Peter Rabbit & Benjamin Bunny Fri 26 Jul. 6.30pm. £14/£9/£40 family. Tickets: 01793 614837 • Peter Rabbit knows he shouldn’t go into Mr McGregor’s garden, but he can’t resist! He gets into all kinds of scrapes and after a severe telling-off from his mother, Peter and Benjamin have to go back into the garden to recover his lost
Babe the Sheep Pig, Lydiard Park, Swindon, 16 Aug
clothes. This childhood favourite is brought to life in an open-air performance from Quantum Theatre. Babe the Sheep-Pig Fri 16 Aug. 6.30pm. £14/£9/£40 family. Tickets: 01793 614837 • Farmer Hoggett wins a piglet at the fair – and everyone knows what fate awaits a pig raised on a farm. Adopted by Fly the sheepdog, Babe develops his own methods of herding sheep using politeness... After last year’s hilarious, sell-out production of ‘The Twits’, Illyria bring another open-air production of a much-loved children’s classic to Lydiard Park. THE PLAYHOUSE THEATRE 47-53 Bath Road, Cheltenham. 01242 522852, www.playhousecheltenham.org Aladdin Fri 16-Sat 17 Aug. 7.30pm & 2.30pm (Sat). £5 • Everything, from the acting to the directing, in this version of the well-known tale is done by members of the Cheltenham Children’s Theatre Association, all of whom are under 18. THE ROSES THEATRE Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX. 01684 295074, www.rosestheatre. org Hey Diddle Diddle Thur 25 Jul. 2pm. £7.50 • Fun nursery rhyme-based show with songs, laughter and audience participation. There’s a Monster in my Piano Thur 1 Aug. 2pm. £7.50 • Offbeat jazzy tale with puppetry and clowning. Theo The Mouse Thur 8 Aug. 2pm. £10/£8 • Comedy, songs and magic in a story about a cheeky mouse. Postman Pat Live Thur 22 Aug. 1pm & 3.30pm. £12.50/£10.50/£42 family • Join Pat on the day of the Greendale karaoke talent competition. SALISBURY PLAYHOUSE Malthouse Lane, Salisbury SP2 7RA. 01722 320333, www.salisburyplayhouse.com The Three Musketeers Tue 10-Thur 12 Sep. 7.45pm & 2.45 (Thur mat). £12/£8 • Swashbuckling capers in this fast-paced adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’ epic tale. THE SUBSCRIPTIONS ROOM George Street, Stroud GL5 1AE. 01453 760900, www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk My Brother the Robot Sat 27 Jul. 12.30pm & 3.30pm. £8/£25
family/£6 concs • Lonely Bobbie is given a special present by her inventor dad, a robot brother. But when Bobbie gets into danger, will her robot brother save her? A new show from the company that staged ‘The Gruffalo’ which combines futuristic humour, music and toddler-friendly storytelling. Theo the Mouse Tue 20 Aug. 2pm, £8/£25 family • Wendy Abrahams from ITV’s Sooty show joins the mischievous mouse in his summer show full of magic, laughter and music. SUNDIAL THEATRE Stroud Road, Cirencester GL7 1XA. 01285 654228, www.sundial-theatre.co.uk The Spooky Men’s Chorale Sun 21 Jul. 7.30pm. £16/£10 • Booming vocals, deadpan comedy and harmonious voices come together in this bizarre but hilarious show that doesn’t take itself too seriously. SWINDON ARTS CENTRE Devizes Road, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4BJ. 01793 614837, www.swindon.gov.uk/artscentre Comedy Club 4 Kids Sat 21 Sep. 2pm. £6.50 • Some of the biggest names in comedy perform childfriendly sets that will entertain the whole family. Suitable for ages 6+. Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! Tue 29 Oct. 11.30am & 2pm. £8/£6/£25 family • A lively show that’s full of fun and feathers for ages 3+. Featuring original music and audience participation, the only question that remains is will you let the pigeon drive the bus? Theo The Mouse Thu 31 Oct. 1.30pm. £10/£8/£32 family • Join Theo the Mouse and Wendy for an afternoon of jokes, songs and magic suitable for ages 2+. THE WYVERN THEATRE Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 1QN. 01793 524481, www.wyverntheatre. org.uk Milkshake! Sun 28 Jul. 1-3.30pm. £13/£11/£44 family • This all-singing, all-dancing live stage show will have children tapping their toes, clapping their hands and singing at the top of their voices. Dinosaur Zoo Wed 18-Fri 20 Sep. 10.30am & 4.30pm. £13.50 • Observe and interact with these extraordinary life-like dinosaurs in this entertaining and highly imaginative live show. But watch out – not all of these jurassic giants are tame! PRIMARY TIMES
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RAINY DAY
RETURN FOR FREE see website for details
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Open Days Thursday 26th September 5-8.30pm Head’s talk 5pm and 6.45pm Tours of school 5.30pm and 7.15pm Wednesday 2nd October, Thursday 10th October 9.15 – 10.45am
info@stberns.bristol.sch.uk
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ROUNDABOUT Your ultimate family diary of what’s on, where & when
Deadlines: List your school’s summer events in Primary Times for free. We work a half-term in advance so we’re now collecting information copy for September and October 2013: deadline Mon 5 Aug. If your event is to raise cash for a school or charity, and is open to the public, we want to know. Email mike.gartside@venue.co.uk. PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL While we make every effort to ensure these listings are accurate and up to date, event information can sometimes change after we’ve gone to press. Please check with the venue or organiser before you set off to an event to make sure it’s going ahead as planned . . . and tell them you saw it in Primary Times!
JULY ONGOING BRLSI SCIENCE TRAIL Starts at Bath Royal Literary & Scientific Institution (BRLSI), 16 Queen Square, Bath, BA1 2HN. 01225 312084, www.brlsi.org/ youthactivitiesgallery, 10am4pm, Mon-Fri. Free trails available from reception • The BRLSI has designed four self-directed family trails around central Bath. Entitled Science, Building, Alderard and Champions Tree, these walks introduce children to different scientific ideas and links them to sites of interest in Bath. ONGOING SERVANTS TOUR: BEHIND THE SCENES Tyntesfield, Wraxall, North Somerset BS48 1NX. 01275
Gromit unleashed by . . .
Richard Williams. . .
461964/0844 249 1894, booking essential, www.nationaltrust.org. uk, 12-1pm, £10 members/£16.60 non-members child/£23.20 nonmembers adult • Until November, Tyntesfield opens its doors for a special guided tour, exploring areas that are not normally accessible. Outside, the extravagant gardens offer a pleasant afternoon stroll. ONGOING LAND ROVER SAFARIS AT SLIMBRIDGE Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge GL2 7B. 01453 891900, www.wwt.org.uk/visit/slimbridge, 11.30am & 2pm, £5 adult/£3 child excluding normal admission charges • Throughout the summer, nature lovers from across Gloucestershire can head off in search of wildlife, wading birds and a horde of interesting insects in their natural habitat.
Cath Kidston . . .
Paul Smith, and many others throughout Bristol until Sun 8 Sep
ONGOING EXPLORE OUR WORLD At-Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www.at-bristol. org.uk, drop-in sessions throughout the day, admission charges apply • The Live Lab area is transformed into an electrifying earthquake and volcano zone.
leashed.org.uk, free • Follow the trail of 80 5ft tall Gromits on this public art display. Each sculpture has been lovingly designed by famous names including Gromit creator Nick Park, comedian Harry Hill and artist Quentin Blake. After the summer, the Gromits will be auctioned off in aid of the Wallace and Gromit Grand Appeal.
ONGOING GOOD VIBRATIONS At-Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www.at-bristol. org.uk, drop-in sessions throughout the day, admission charges apply • Discover how sound is produced by making music with some interesting instruments.
UNTIL SUN 8 SEP DINOZOO 2 Bristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3HA. 0117 974 7399, www.bristolzoo.org.uk • Dinosaurs are coming to life at Bristol Zoo Gardens, with animatronic versions such as T-Rex and the oldest known dinosaur in Britain – the Bristol Dinosaur.
ONGOING ST MARY’S SCRAPPERS St Mary’s C.E. Primary School, Church Road, Yate, South Gloucestershire. 10am-4pm, £5 for a table, optional scrapbook class most months for £2.50 • Taking place on the last Sunday of every month, this small group raises money for the school with members bringing along a whole host of crafts that include scrapbooking, sewing, card making, quilting, crochet and knitting.
UNTIL SUN 15 SEP SUMMER NIGHT SKY PLANETARIUM SHOW At-Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www.at-bristol. org.uk, admission charges apply • Discover how to navigate the cosmos with this presenter-led show. On the way you’ll find far-off planets, explore distant constellations and spot some colourful stars.
UNTIL SUN 1 SEP NATURE EXPLORERS Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT. 01453 891223, www.wwt. org.uk/visit/slimbridge, 9.30am5.30pm, general admission • Every week there will be a different area of nature for the children to discover. After every activity, which includes toad handling and bird spotting, the children will receive a stamp. If they have collected enough, they will receive a certificate.
BRLSI Science Trail runs in Bath throughout the summer
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UNTIL SUN 8 SEP GROMIT UNLEASHED Central Bristol, www.gromitun-
UNTIL TUE 29 OCT QUILTING BEE The American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath BA2 7BD. 01225 460503, www.americanmuseum.org/, 12-4pm, general admission • Quilting groups from all over the region demonstrate their talents and chat with visitors in the Textiles Room. Every Tuesday. UNTIL 31 DEC FIFTY FABULOUS FROCKS EXHIBITION Fashion Museum, Assembly Rooms, Bennett Street, Bath BA1 2QH. 01225 477789, 10.30am5pm, admission charges apply • A classic collection of fashion throughout the ages, including iconic names in 20th century SUMMER HOLIDAY 2013
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fashion such as Christian Dior and Yves Saint Laurent and brands such as Burberry and Erdem. WED 17, 24 & 31 JUL WEDNESDAY WONDERS The Roman Baths, Abbey Churchyard, Bath BA1 1LZ. 01225 477785, www.romanbaths.co.uk, 6-8pm • Take the family after school to learn about local history through presentations of archaeology and an opportunity to handle the ancient collections. SAT 20 JUL CAR BOOT SALE Shield Road Primary school, Shield Road, Filton, Bristol BS7 0RR. 07968 436141, 10am-1pm, £5 per car • Sellers access from 9am. No smoking or pets on school grounds. Refreshments available. SAT 20 JUL FILM NIGHTS AT BRISTOL ZOO Bristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3HA. 0117 974 7399, www.bristolzoo.org.uk, book tickets online • Screenings of popular classics, with ‘The Lion King’ at 5pm and ‘Ghostbusters’ at 8pm. SAT 20-SUN 21 JUL BEGGARS KNOLL CHINESE GARDEN Newtown, Westbury, BA13 3ED, 01373 823383, 2pm, £3.50 • An inspirational one acre garden filled with colourful plantings set against a backdrop of Chinese pavilions, gateways, statues and dragons. A large potager houses chickens, and pigs live in the woods. SAT 20-SUN 21 JUL ROYAL INTERNATIONAL AIR TATTOO SHOW RAF Fairford, Fairford, Gloucestershire GL7 4RB. www. airtattoo.com, 7.30am-8.30pm, 0800 107 1940, £45/£40/£75 weekend admission/under-16s free • Featuring aircraft from the Polish and Hungarian airforce alongside lots of old favourites as well. SAT 20 JUL-SUN 1 SEP SUMMER FISH-TIVAL Bristol Aquarium, Anchor Road, Bristol BS1 5TT. 0117 929 8929, www.bristolaquarium.co.uk •
Explore an underwater world and learn about animals that reside around our local coasts, see exotic fishes from all over the world and find out scientific facts about the vast seas around us. From elegant sea horses to daunting octopuses and sharks, there is a plenitude of wildlife to see. SUN 21 JUL TWIGS COMMUNITY GARDEN Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor Industrial Estate, Swindon SN2 2QJ, 01793 523294 www. richmondfellowship.org.uk/twigs, £3 (adults), children free • Visit this two acre community garden, created and maintained by volunteers, with seven individual display gardens, ornamental pond, plant nursery, Iron Age round house and much more. SUN 21 JUL LONGCOT VILLAGE FAIR The grounds of Longcot and Fernham school, Faringdon, Wiltshire, SN7 7SY, 07904 680547, 12pm-5pm, £2 (adults)/£1 (children) • Sample cheese, ice cream, fudge and other tasty treats from local producers and sellers. View a wonderful collection of local crafts. Also games, races, dancing and other activities. SUN 21 JUL LOVE FOOD FESTIVAL Paintworks Event Space, Bath Road, Brislington, Bristol BS1 6HE. 07815 308488, www.lovefoodfestival.com, 10.30am-4pm, free • Browse the market stalls and sample street food by some of the finest producers in the South West. There are also cookery demonstrations and a funfilled children’s area. MON 22 & 29 JUL, MON 5 AUG WOODLAND WALK WITH THE WARDEN Old Down Country Park, Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol BS32 4PG, 01454 414081, www.olddownpark.co.uk, 10.30am, free with park entry • Immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery and the variety of farm animals at the park.
PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES! TUE 23 JUL & WED 7 AUG EVENING ON THE ESTUARY Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT. 01453 891223, www.wwt. org.uk/visit/slimbridge, 7pm, £15 • The reserve wardens lead a small group to the Sea Wall at the Wetland Centre, where one of the biggest gull roosts in the South West is situated. TUE 23-FRI 26 JUL GET SPORTED: MULTI SPORTS DAY CAMP Ralph Allen School, Bath BA2 7AD. 07528 689854, www.getsported. org, £20-£88 (early bird & sibling discounts available) • Children can learn and improve their sports skills while gaining confidence through activities and team talk discussions. Sports include football, cricket, rugby and more. Ages 5-12 years. WED 24 JUL HOME EDUCATOR DAY: OUR CHANGING PLANET At-Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www.at-bristol. org.uk, 10.30am, see website for prices, telephone booking 0845 345 3344 • Home-educating families are invited to take part in exclusive activities which look at the planet’s polar regions. WED 24 & WED 31 JUL TEDDY BEARS PICNIC Bird & Deer Park, Prinknash, Cranham, Gloucester, Gloucestershire GL4 8EX. 01452 812727, www.thebirdpark.co.uk, 11.30am, £10 child • Take your own teddy bear to this large picnic, offering plenty of fun including visiting and feeding all the animals in the park. Picnics are provided beside the Wendy House by the lake. Booking essential. THU 25 JUL-ONGOING MAKE YOUR OWN GROMIT At-Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www.at-bristol. org.uk, £3 model-making workshop, admission charges apply • Meet an Aardman model maker, who’ll teach you the tricks of the trade and help you make your very own Gromit. THU 25 JUL WILD WEST CRAFTS The American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath BA2 7BD. 0122 546 0503, www.americanmuseum.org, 1-4pm, gardens admission only • Make your own Wild West outfit: sheriff’s badges, bandanas and fake moustaches or fluttering fans and feathered headpieces.
Bristol Harbour Festival, Fri 26-Sun 28 Jul 14
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THU 25 JUL & 1 AUG MAKE A LEAF COLLAGE Old Down Country Park, Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol BS32 4PG, 01454 414081, www.olddownpark.co.uk, 2.30pm, free with park entry • Collect leaves and create a collage full of different textures and colours. A fun day
Wild West Crafts at the American Museum, Bath, Thu 25 Jul
out with something creative to take home. THU 25 JUL-SUN 25 AUG SUMMER SUNDAES River Cottage Canteen, Whiteladies Road, Bristol. www. rivercottage.net/bristol, 12pm • Does your child love to get creative in the kitchen? Get them to create their own unique sundae. The winning entry will feature on the menu. FRI 26 JUL SUNSET SPECIALS Bristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3HA. 0117 974 7399, www.bristolzoo.org.uk, £12 adult/£8 child/free under-2s, book tickets online or call 0117 974 7300 • A rare afterhours opportunity to enjoy the sun going down at the zoo. Animal displays, face painting and entertainment courtesy of the Cotswold Big Band. FRI 26 JUL THE COMEDY OF ERRORS Old Down Country Park, Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol BS32 4PG, 01454 414081, www.olddownpark.co.uk, 7.30pm (performance) 6.30pm, £14 (adults) £8 (children) • Rain or Shine Theatre Company perform Shakespeare’s ‘The Comedy of Errors’ outside in our Walled Garden. Bring low backed chairs or blankets. FRI 26-SUN 28 JUL BRISTOL HARBOUR FESTIVAL Bristol Harbourside. www.bristolharbourfestival.co.uk, free • Over 250,000 festival fans descend upon Bristol for a weekend of activities celebrating the beautiful ships lining a two-mile stretch along the waterfront, with live music, circus/dance activities and children’s area in Castle Park. SAT 27-SUN 28 JUL WILD NIGHT FAMILY CAMP Wild Place, Black Horse Hill, Bristol BS10 7TP. 0117 980 7175, www. wildplace.org.uk, 5pm Sat-11am Sun, £45/£65 family • Kick off the summer holidays with a night under the stars. This is a family event with Ed Drewitt, nature adviser to the BBC. Stay up late and learn about nocturnal creatures, with bug hunts, bat detec» PRIMARY TIMES
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tors, den building, owl prowls and a campfire, before getting up early for the dawn chorus.
PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES!
Urban Bristol - Street Art by Bus, Sun 28 Jul & Sun 25 Aug
SAT 27 JUL FESTIVAL OF ARCHAEOLOGY Yate Heritage Centre, Church Road, Yate, Bristol BS37 5BG. 01454 862200, www.yateheritage.co.uk, 10.30am-4.30pm (drop-in) • There will be numerous hands-on activities and demonstrations, plus medieval and Tudor music and storytelling.
THU 1 AUG MEDIEVAL & TUDOR RAT CATCHER WORKSHOP Yate Heritage Centre, Church Road, Yate, Bristol BS37 5BG. 01454 862200, www.yateheritage.co.uk, 10am, 11.30am & 2pm, booking essential • Learn about the rat catchers of Medieval and Tudor England and make your own rats and vermin and create a Medieval stink with anti-vermin traps.
SAT 27 JUL LOVE CLEVEDON FESTIVAL Princes hall and Sunhill park, Clevedon BS21 7SZ. 01275 540325, www.loveclevedon. com, 12pm, fair £3/accompanied under-14s free, evening concert £7/£5 under-17s • An array of craft stalls, bouncy castles, puppet stalls and face painting from 12noon. The show then moves into the Princes Hall for a lineup of local singers. Fundraising event.
programme, 9am, £21.50 (Age 5 to 14yrs), booking essential • A fun-filled day of games and activities where children meet and learn about the animals from ZOOLAB. Discover which animals can outrun, out-jump and out-lift the fastest and strongest athletes.
SAT 27 JUL FAMILY FUN DAY Yate Leisure Centre, Kennedy Way, Yate, Gloucestershire, BS37 4DQ, 03003 330300, www. activecentres.org/for-kids/holiday-programme, 12pm, free • Get involved in a day of fun at Yate leisure centre and make use of all the wonderful facilities.
MON 29 JUL-FRI 2 AUG HOLIDAY FOREST SCHOOL Wild Place, Black Horse Hill, Bristol BS10 7TP. 0117 980 7175, www.wildplace.org.uk, 10am3pm, £150 per child • Week-long courses for ages 8-12. Children learn fire craft, creative activities, den building and lots of exciting woodland games.
SUN 28 JUL URBAN BRISTOL – STREET ART BY BUS Departure from outside Specialized Bike Shop, Park Street, Bristol, 1pm-3pm, £8 (adult), £5 (child). 07554 457666, www.citysightseeingbristol.co.uk/ public-trips/tickets.php • An open top bus tour of Bristol’s city-wide street art taking in Nelson Street, North Street and sites of work by artists including Cheo, Banksy and Andy Council, Herakut and Stinkfish. Book to avoid disappointment.
MON 29 JUL-FRI 2 AUG JUNGLE EXPLORERS Theatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath BA1 1ET. 01225 448844, www.theatreroyal.org.uk, 10am-12noon, £70 • Children join Theatre Royal staff for drama, crafts and a trek through the jungle. Ages 5-6.
MON 29 JUL ANIMAL ANTICS Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre, Hempton Lane, Bradley Stoke, Bristol BS32 4AJ, 03003 330300, www.activecentres.org/for-kids/holiday-
TUE 30 JUL, TUE 13 & TUE 27 AUG LET’S GO BANANAS MUSIC WORKSHOP The Purple Sheep Centre, Weston-super-Mare BS23 2UR & St Augustine’s Church, Locking Village BS24 8DA. 07871 206810, www.letsgobananas.net, £4.20/£1.20 for siblings • An interactive music summer workshop to introduce babies, toddlers and young children to lots of different musical instruments. There is a class at the Purple Sheep at
9.40am and at St Augustine’s church at 1.50pm. TUE 30 JUL TEDDY BEARS’ PICNIC Lacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum & Village, Lacock, near Chippenham SN15 2LG. 01249 730459, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock, 11am, standard admission applies • Bring your teddy along for a lunchtime treat, with activities for you and your cuddly best friend. TUE 30 JUL MAKE A BIRD BATH Old Down Country Park, Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol BS32 4PG, 01454 414081, www.olddownpark. co.uk, 10.30am-12.30pm, free with park entry • Enjoy a day out in the countryside and be at one with nature at this creative morning event. TUE 30 JUL, TUE 6 & WED 28 AUG STORY BUS TRIPS Broad Quay, Stop 1, Bristol. 07425 788123, www.citysightseeingbristol.co.uk, 5.30pm, £8/£4 adult, £5/£2.50 child (3-15), prices depend on position on bus • Bristol performer Chris Brown returns as Captain Barnacle to lead you on a swashbuckling adventure, with stories of the high seas, dastardly pirates and ghostly sailors. Book early to avoid disappointment. Tours last 90 minutes. WED 31 JUL DRAGON HUNTING FOR BEGINNERS Coate Water Information Centre, SE side of Swindon, M4 J15. 01793 490150, www.swindown.gov.uk, 12noon-2pm, free, book in advance by telephone • Head Dragon Tracker Cristian Starmer leads an exploration into hidden swamps, wetlands and shallow ponds to unearth the beautiful dragonfly. Wear clothes to suit the weather and a pair of wellies. Meet at the information centre. Suitable for ages 5-12.
AUGUST Storytelling round the fire at Holiday Forest School, Mon 29 Jul-Fri 2 Aug
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website for prices • A series of five fun and educational weekly sessions where children work together, learning outdoor skills, and harvest produce from fields to cook over a camp-fire.
THU 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 AUG FARM FOREST SCHOOL The Community Farm, Chew Magna, Bristol, BS40 8SZ. www.thecommunityfarm.co.uk, 10am-3pm, see
THU 1 AUG PROHIBITION CRAFTS The American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath BA2 7BD. 01225 460503, www.americanmuseum.org, 1-4pm, gardens only admission • Be inspired by the glamour of the 1920s and make your own gangster’s moll headband or speedy getaway car. THU 1 AUG ANIMAL ANTICS Downend Leisure Centre, Garnett Place, Downend, Bristol, BS16 6QY, 03003 330300, www.activecentres. org/for-kids/holiday-programme, 9am, £21.50 (Age 5 to 14yrs), booking essential • A fun-filled day of games and activities where children meet and learn about the animals from ZOOLAB. Discover which animals can out-run, out-jump and out-lift the fastest and strongest athletes. THU 1 AUG BABE THE SHEEP PIG Lacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum & Village, Lacock, near Chippenham SN15 2LG. 01249 730459, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock, 7pm, £15 adult/£8 child, book online • Enjoy Dick King Smith’s heartwarming classic performed against the backdrop of Lacock Abbey. Ages 5+ SAT 3 AUG FOOD HISTORY DAY Yate Heritage Centre, Church Road, Yate, Bristol BS37 5BG. 01454 862200, www.yateheritage.co.uk, 10.30am-4.30pm (drop in) • Learn about traditional ways of making bread, butter, cheese and other foods and get hands-on experience. SAT 3 AUG NATURE TRAIL The John Moore Museum, 41-42 Church Street, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire GL20 5SN. 01684 297174, www.johnmooremuseum. org, 2pm, free • Join a relaxing guided walk along the Severn Ham in Tewkesbury. This short walk will be led by local nature experts from MAATRA and will take in the sights and sounds of a fascinating wildlife habitat and area of natural beauty. SAT 3 AUG FILM NIGHTS AT BRISTOL ZOO Bristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton, » PRIMARY TIMES
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Day Camps, Drop In’s, Sway Dance Workshops, Crash Course Swimming Lessons, Pool Activities and much more
Summer Holidays Activities Programme New for Summer 2013 at Hutton Moor • Breakfast club 8.00-8.30am Extended opening times • Rated ‘good’ by Ofsted
Brockway, Nailsea (01275) 856965
Hutton Moor Road, W-s-M (01934) 425900
BOOK 4 DAYS AND GET THE 5th DAY FREE*
Farleigh Road, Backwell (01275) 463726
working in partnership
ref: Primary Times *terms and conditions apply (valid at HMLC only)
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PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES!
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Bristol Balloon Fiesta, Thu 8-Sun 11 Aug
Swindon. 01793 490150, www. swindon.gov.uk, 10am-12noon, free, book in advance by telephone • Explore the ancient woods at Stanton Park with Head SpiritHunter Cristian Starmer. Bring stout shoes and old clothes. Meet at the information centre. Suitable for ages 5-12. WED 7, 14, 21 & 28 AUG WEDNESDAY WONDERS The Roman Baths, Abbey Church Yard, Bath BA1 1LZ. 01225 477785, www.romanbaths.co.uk, 6-8pm • Take the family after school to learn about local history through presentations of archaeology and an opportunity to handle the ancient collections.
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Bristol BS8 3HA. 0117 974 7399, www.bristolzoo.org.uk, book tickets online • Screenings of popular classics, with ‘A Bug’s Life’ at 5pm and ‘The Goonies’ at 8pm. SAT 3 AUG REDFEST St George’s Park, Bristol BS5 7AA, www.redfestbristol.co.uk, 11am, free • Redfield’s annual community arts festival features children’s activities throughout the day, as well as street stalls, bands and DJs. SAT 3 AUG BUGS AND BUTTERFLIES CRAFTS Old Down Country Park, Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol BS32 4PG, 01454 414081, www.olddownpark.co.uk, 1pm • Make beautiful wildlife creations, fun for inside and the outside, including a minibeast hotel! SAT 3-SUN 4 AUG UNIQUE FINDS AND FOODIE FEASTS AT GLOUCESTER QUAYS Gloucester Quays, St Ann Way, Gloucester GL1 5SH, 0845 0941 007, 10am-6pm (Sat), 11am-5pm (Sun) • This open-air market has over 30 stalls offering the finest seasonal produce from around the country and further afield. The Orchard Street Food and Craft Market sells everything from artisan breads to hand-made chocolates, organic drinks, local cheeses and homemade chutneys. An abundance of crafts also on offer. MON 5-FRI 9 AUG HOLIDAY FOREST SCHOOL Wild Place, Black Horse Hill, Bristol BS10 7TP. 0117 980 7175, www.wildplace.org.uk, 10am-3pm, £150 per child • Week-long courses for ages 8-12. Children learn fire craft, creative activities, den building and lots of exciting woodland games. MON 5-WED 7, TUE 27-THUR 29 AUG WHY INSECTS ARE FAB Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust Slimbridge Wetland Centre, PRIMARY TIMES
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Slimbridge, GL2 7BT. 01453 891223, www.wwt.org.uk/visit/ slimbridge, 11am-4pm, general admission • Explore the fascinating world of insects. Artist-inresidence Cath Hodsman will bring along some specimens and microscopes. MON 5-FRI 9 AUG BEASTLY TALES Theatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath BA1 1ET. 01225 448844, www. theatre-royal.org.uk, 10am-2pm, £85 • Explore the poetic fables of Vikram Seth’s ‘Beastly Tales’ through poetry, music and performance. Ages 7-9 years. MON 5-FRI 9 AUG ART & NATURE The Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4DB. 01225 388569, www.holburne. org, £35 per day/£120 for 4 days • Creative and fun day-long art workshops inspired by the Museum’s collection and exhibitions and led by the Holburne’s team of artists. Ages 5-13 years. TUE 6 AUG HANDS ON HISTORY The American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath BA2 7BD. 01225 460503, www. americanmuseum.org, 1-4pm, gardens only admission • Get hands on with some beautiful Native American objects, including beaded moccasins, woven baskets, tools and a replica war bonnet. TUE 6 AUG THERE’S SOMETHING IN THE WATER Stanton Park Information Centre, Swindon. 01793 490150, www.swindon.gov.uk, 9am-10am & 11am-12noon, free, book in advance by telephone • David Boase leads an investigation into what’s living in the water at Stanton Park. Using nets, old clothes and wellies, learn more about this watery habitat. Meet at the information centre. Suitable for ages 5+.
TUE 6 AUG ANIMAL ANTICS Yate Leisure Centre, Kennedy Way, Yate, Gloucestershire BS37 4DQ, 03003 330300, www.activecentres.org/for-kids/holidayprogramme, 9am, £21.50 (Age 5 to 11/14yrs), booking essential • A fun-filled day of games and activities where children meet and learn about the animals from ZOOLAB. Discover which animals can outrun, out-jump and out-lift the fastest and strongest athletes. TUE 6, 13, 20 & 27 AUG MAJOR DAVIS TOUR OF THE ROMAN BATHS Roman Baths, Stall Street, Bath BA1 1LZ. 01225 477773, www. romanbaths.co.uk, 5.45pm, £18 adult/£12 child 11+ • Professional actor Ric Jerrom brings back to life Major Charles Davis, the City Architect and Surveyor of Works who originally discovered and uncovered the Roman Baths in the late 19th century. Join him to explore unseen corners of the Roman Baths. TUE 6-FRI 9 AUG GET SPORTED: MULTI SPORTS DAY CAMP Ralph Allen School, Bath BA2 7AD. 07528 689854, www.getsported. org, £20-£88 (early bird & sibling discounts available) • Children can learn and improve their sports skills, while gaining confidence through activities and team talk discussions. Sports include football, cricket, rugby and more. Ages 5-12 years. WED 7 AUG KITE MAKING Tewksbury Heritage Museum, 100 Church Street, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire GL20 5AB. 01684 855040, www.tewkesbury.gov. uk, 10.30am-12.30pm/1.30-3pm, £6 • Join the wacky Wednesday workshop in kite making. Booking essential. WED 7 AUG TREE SPIRITS Stanton Park Information Centre,
WED 7 & 14 AUG MINIBEAST HUNT Old Down Country Park, Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol BS32 4PG, 01454 414081, www.olddownpark.co.uk, 2.30pm, free with park entry • Children will love this nature trail with a twist where they can look for and collect all types of insects and creepy-crawlies. THU 8 AUG WILD WEST CRAFTS The American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath BA2 7BD. 01225 460503, www.americanmuseum.org, 1- 4pm, gardens only admission • Create your own covered wagon and join the trail to the Wild West. THU 8 AUG ANIMAL ANTICS Thornbury Leisure Centre, Alveston Hill, Thornbury, South Gloucestershire BS35 3JB, 03003 330300, www.activecentres.org/ for-kids/holiday-programme, 9am, £21.50 (Age 5 to 11/14yrs), booking essential • A fun-filled day of games and activities where children meet and learn about the animals from ZOOLAB. Discover which animals can out-run, outjump and out-lift the fastest and strongest athletes. THU 8-SUN 11 AUG BRISTOL BALLOON FIESTA Ashton Court Estate, Bristol BS8 3TQ. www.bristolballoonfiesta. co.uk, 6am-6pm, free • As well as watching the spectacle of the mass balloon ascents, night glows and fireworks, you can watch the Red Arrows, the RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team and the Spitfire Memorial Flight at this annual celebration. Families can get involved in inflation races, balloon tethering and watch model aircraft flying displays, as well as be entertained by local dance groups and schools on the dance stage. Balloon flights available – see fiesta website. FRI 9 & 30 AUG MAKE AN ANIMAL MASK Old Down Country Park, Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol BS32 4PG, 01454 414081, www.olddownpark.co.uk, 2.30pm, free with park entry • Get the creative juices flowing and give the little ones the perfect excuse to behave like animals! » SUMMER HOLIDAY 2013
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SAT 10 AUG STANBRIDGE PRIMARY SCHOOL CAR BOOT AND GIANT PICNIC Stanbridge Road, Downend, Bristol BS16 6AL. 10am-2pm • Browse the stalls before taking part in a giant picnic on the school field. SAT 10-SUN 11 AUG DALEK INVASION! Fleet Air Arm Museum, RNAS Yeovilton, Somerset BA22 8HT. 01935 840565, www.fleetairarm. com, 10am, £13.50 adults/£10 children 5-16/£39 family • For those who are not hiding behind the sofa, Doctor Who’s arch nemesis, the Daleks, make their terrifying return to the museum. Children are encouraged to wear sci-fi fancy dress. SUN 11 AUG BEE & HONEY DAY Lacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum & Village, Lacock, near Chippenham SN15 2LG. 01249 730459, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ lacock, 10.30am, normal admission charges apply • Join the Melksham Beekeepers Association for a relaxed, informative and fun day of bee-related activities, demonstrations and refreshments. MON 12-FRI 16 AUG HOLIDAY FOREST SCHOOL Wild Place, Black Horse Hill, Bristol BS10 7TP. 0117 980 7175, www.wildplace.org.uk, 10am-3pm, £150 per child • Week-long courses for ages 8-12. Children learn fire craft, creative activities, den building and lots of exciting woodland games. MON 12-SUN 18 AUG SUMMER PUPPET FESTIVAL Bayshill Unitarian Church Hall, Royal Well Lane, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 3ET. 01242 263283, daily workshops & performances 11am-2.15pm, £3.50 adult/£2.50 child/£10 family/£3 workshops • Enjoy daily puppet performances of ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’, ‘Ali Baba’ and ‘Coppelia’, as well as puppet-making workshops. Proceeds to the Well Child charity. MON 12-FRI 16 AUG SUMMER SCHOOL Tobacco Factory, Raleigh Rd, Bristol BS3 1TF. 0117 902 0060, www.tobaccofactory.com, 10am5pm, £175 •. Explore the area surrounding the Tobacco Factory to uncover stories to tell on stage. Develop your skills through working with professional theatre makers in theatre writing, sound design and improvisation. Ages 13-18 years. MON 12-SAT 17 AUG CIRENCESTER CHILDREN’S LITERARY FESTIVAL Cirencester’s Bingham Library and Octavia’s Bookshop, 24 Black Jack Street, Cirencester, GL7 2AA, 07791 586199, www.octaviasbookshop.co.uk, £1 • A brand new literary festival for children, young people and families, opened by Alex T Smith, author of the much loved Claude books. 20
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Tudor Birds of Prey Day, John Moore Museum, Sat 17 Aug
PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES! tree pruning and learn more about what it takes to look after the parks of Swindon. Wear old clothes and stout shoes. Meet at the information centre. THU 15 AUG WILD WEST CRAFTS The American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath BA2 7BD. 01225 460503, www.americanmuseum.org, 1-4pm, gardens only admission • All cowboys and cowgirls need a trusty steed they can depend on when the going gets tough. Make your own hobby horse and ride into the sunset.
TUE 13 AUG HURDLE WORKSHOP Yate Heritage Centre, Church Road, Yate, Bristol BS37 5BG. 01454 862200, www.yateheritage.co.uk, various times, booking essential • Make your own traditional willow mini-hurdle using time-honoured techniques. Ideal for 5-12 years old. TUE 13 AUG HANDS ON HISTORY The American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath BA2 7BD. 01225 460503, www.americanmuseum.org, 1-4pm, gardens only admission • Find out what life was really like for the first European settlers in America by handling objects they would have used in their daily lives. TUE 13 AUG SEASIDE PICNIC Lacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum & Village, Lacock, near Chippenham SN15 2LG. 01249 730459, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock, normal admission charges apply • Enjoy beach-themed fun with entertainment, crafts and activities when the seaside is brought to Wiltshire. Bring deck chairs and wear seasidethemed fancy dress. WED 14 AUG SHIELDS, SWORDS & CROWNS Tewksbury Heritage Museum, 100 Church Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5AB. 01684 855040, www.tewkesbury.gov.uk, 10.30am-12.30pm/1.303pm, £6 • Join the Wacky Wednesday summer workshop and make you own shield, sword and crown.
FRI 16 AUG SUNSET SPECIAL Bristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3HA. 0117 974 7399, www.bristolzoo.org.uk, 6.3010pm, £12 adult/£8 child, book tickets online • A rare afterhours opportunity to enjoy the sun going down at the zoo. Animal displays, face painting and entertainment courtesy of the Cotswold Big Band. FRI 16-SUN 18 AUG DAY OUT WITH THOMAS Dean Forest Railway, Forest Road, Lydney, Gloucestershire GL15 4ET. 01594 845840, www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk, see website for times, £14 adult/£8 child 2-15 years/under-2 free/£42 family • Meet Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends and experience a ride on a real steam engine. SAT 17 AUG FILM NIGHTS AT BRISTOL ZOO Bristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3HA. 0117 974 7399, www.bristolzoo.org.uk, book tickets online • Relax on the main lawn with film screenings of children’s animation ‘Happy Feet’ at 5pm and comedy classic ‘Anchorman’ at 8pm. SAT 17 AUG TUDOR BIRDS OF PREY DAY John Moore Museum, 41 Church Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5SN. 01684 297174, www.johnmooremuseum.org, 10am-1pm & 2-5pm • Enjoy a historical day learning about the Tudors and the ancient art of falconry, with a chance to see a variety of live birds of prey. Bee and Honey Day at Lacock, Sun 11 Aug
SAT 17-SUN 18 AUG BIG FARM MACHINERY WEEKEND Bowood House & Gardens, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 0LZ. 01249 812102, www.bowood-house.co.uk, general admission • Brand new farm tractors on display at Tractor Ted’s little farm alongside their smaller counterparts. MON 19 AUG-FRI 23 AUG HOLIDAY FOREST SCHOOL Wild Place, Black Horse Hill, Bristol BS10 7TP. 0117 980 7175, www. wildplace.org.uk, 10am-3pm, £150 per child • Week-long courses for ages 8-12. Children learn fire craft, creative activities, den building and lots of exciting woodland games. MON 19, TUE 20, MON 26 & TUE 27 AUG SUMMER SCHOOL Kip Mcgrath, 45 Castle Street, Trowbridge BA14 8WB. 01225 777514, www.kipmcgrath.co.uk/, 10.30am-12.30pm, £30 per session • Kick start your child’s learning for the new school year. Fun, educational English and maths activities individually tailored to your child’s needs. Book early as places are limited. Suitable for children aged 7-16. MON 19-TUE 20 AUG THE GRUFFALO Stanton Park Information Centre, Swindon. 01793 490150, www. swindon.gov.uk, 10am-11am, free, book in advance by telephone • Join Gruffalo Tracker David Boase on this storytelling event which takes a walk into the deep, dark woods where sightings of a strange creature have been reported. Come dressed as your favourite woodland creature and wear stout shoes. Meet at the information centre. MON 19-FRI 30 AUG MUSICAL SUMMER SCHOOL Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573, www.everymantheatre.org.uk, 10am-4pm, £200 • Perform extracts from some of the best-loved musicals. A live band will accompany you as you rehearse to perform on the Everyman stage. For young people between 11-18 years old.
WED 14 AUG CRAFT WORKSHOP Yate Heritage Centre, Church Road, Yate, Bristol BS37 5BG. 01454 862200, www.yateheritage.co.uk, 10am-12am/2-3.30pm, booking essential • Create your own Yate Heritage plate with designs from the Heritage Centre collections. Ideal for 5-12 years old.
TUE 20 AUG HANDS ON HISTORY The American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath BA2 7BD. 01225 460503, www.americanmuseum.org, 1-4pm, gardens only admission • The American West wasn’t all cowboys and gold rushes! Get behind the Hollywood stereotypes by handling artefacts that tell us about life beyond the frontier.
WED 14 AUG YOUNG RANGERS Coate Water Information Centre, SE side of Swindon, M4 J15. 01793 490150, www.swindown.gov.uk, 10am-12noon, free, book in advance by telephone • Become a ranger for the day by helping to do some
TUE 20 AUG FAMILY BAT WATCH Lacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum & Village, Lacock, near Chippenham SN15 2LG. 01249 730459, www.nationaltrust.org. uk/lacock, 7.30pm, £8 adult/£4 child • Join bat expert Tony
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Caerleon is a brand new purpose built Childcare Centre with custom designed garden. After over ÂŁ350,000 of investment, Caerleon will have the most modern equipment and facilities. Daily supervised visits to Jump before it opens and exclusive Jump benefits. Conveniently located within only 5 minutes of Aztec West Business Park and The Mall Cribbs Causeway. Flexible, free government places accepted and limited term only contracts available.
If you would like to visit our wonderful new facility or would like more information, you can either send us an email on info@caerleonbristol.co.uk or call 0117 979 8980 22 Concorde Road, Cribbs Causeway, Bristol, BS34 5TB www.caerleonchildcare.co.uk
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Join in during the week to win a chance to enter our free prize draw every Sunday
Come down between 22nd July - 1st September
20%
Book 4 months in advance to get discount on your childs party!
We are not sure how long this offer will last so if you would like more details, or to check availability, please give our party planners a call on 0117 9312733. We look forward to hearing from you! New bookings only, terms and conditions apply. 7/2/2013 11:25:18 AM PRIMARY TIMES
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Brazier to watch for and listen to bats living in locations in and around Lacock Abbey.
Beastly Bugs and Beautiful Butterflies, Tewkesbury Heritage Museum, Wed 28 Aug
WED 21 AUG CAR CRAFT WORKSHOPS Yate Heritage Centre, Church Road, Yate, Bristol BS37 5BG. 01454 862200, www.yateheritage.co.uk, 10.30am-12pm/ 2-3.30pm • Make your own moveable balloon cars and other craft cars in this fun workshop. Ideal for ages 5-12 years. THU 22 AUG UNDER THE SEA Wiltshire Heritage Museum, 41 Long St, Devizes, Wiltshire SN10 1NS. 01380 727369, www.wiltshireheritage.org.uk, 11am-12.30pm (under8s)/1.30-3pm (over-8s), £4 child • Create your own willow fish and suncatchers and discover a whole world of underwater wonders. THU 22 AUG ANIMAL ANTICS Patchway Sports Centre, Hempton Lane, Almondsbury, South Gloucestershire, BS32 4AJ, 03003 330300, www.activecentres.org/ for-kids/holiday-programme, 9am, £21.50 (Age 5 to 14yrs), booking essential • A fun-filled day of games and activities where children meet and learn about the animals from ZOOLAB. Discover which animals can out-run, out-jump and out-lift the fastest and strongest athletes. THU 22 AUG PROHIBITION CRAFTS The American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath BA2 7BD. 01225 460503, www.americanmuseum.org, 1-4pm, gardens only admission • Hollywood gangsters need a good aim, even if they’re just throwing custard pies! Make your own target toy and get practising. SAT 24 AUG ANIMAL ANTICS Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge GL2 7BT. 01453 891223, www.wwt.org.uk/visit/slimbridge, 10am-4pm • An opportunity to meet millipedes, come face-to-face with cockroaches and hold snakes and reptiles. This interactive animal workshop will bring you closer to nature than you have ever been – beware!
SEPTEMBER SAT 31 AUG-SUN 1 SEP BRISTOL INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF KITES & AIR CREATIONS Ashton Court Estate, Long Ashton, Bristol BS8 3TQ. 0117 977 2002, www.kite-festival.org.uk, free • One of Europe’s biggest kite festivals, this event boasts giant 3D creatures, action-packed aerial battles, synchronised stunt routines, power kites and ground-based air creations. SUN 25 AUG URBAN BRISTOL – STREET ART BY BUS Departure from outside Specialized Bike Shop, Park Street, Bristol, 1pm-3pm, £8 (adult), £5 (child). 07554 457666, www. citysightseeingbristol.co.uk/publictrips/tickets.php • An open top bus tour of Bristol’s city-wide street art taking in Nelson Street, North Street and sites of work by artists including Cheo, Banksy , Andy Council, Herakut and Stinkfish. Book to avoid disappointment. TUE 27 AUG HANDS ON HISTORY The American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath BA2 7BD. 01225 460503, www.americanmuseum.org, 1-4pm, garden admission only • Learn all about how quilts are made by exploring the American Museum’s collection of quilts. TUE 27 AUG ANIMAL ANTICS Yate Leisure Centre, Kennedy Way, Yate, Gloucestershire BS37 4DQ, 03003 330300, www.activecentres.org/for-kids/holidayprogramme, 9am, £21.50 (Age 5 to 14yrs), booking essential • A fun-filled day of games and activities where children meet and learn about the animals from ZOOLAB. Discover which animals can outrun, out-jump and out-lift the fastest and strongest athletes.
SAT 24 AUG POND LIFE MAKE SESSION Old Down Country Park, Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol BS32 4PG, 01454 414081, www.olddownpark.co.uk, 1pm, • Make fun pond life creations including origami frogs and ‘Pond life’ collection pots.
WED 28 AUG BEASTLY BUGS AND BEAUTIFUL BUTTERFLIES Tewksbury Heritage Museum, 100 Church Street, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire GL20 5AB. 01684 855040, www.tewkesbury.gov. uk, 10.30am-12.30pm/1.30-3pm, £6 • Join in the Wacky Wednesday summer workshop on beastly bugs.
SAT 24-MON 26 AUG TREEFEST 2013 Westonbirt Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury, Gloucestershire GL8 8QS. 0300 068 0400, www.forestry. gov.uk/westonbirt-treefest, £10 advance adult/£8 advance concession/£24 weekend, book in advance by phone or online • This eco-festival celebrates nature, trees and woodcraft across an action-packed weekend of activities and displays.
WED 28 AUG & SAT 31 AUG SPORTS EXTRAVAGANZA (GOLF) Thornbury Leisure Centre, Alveston Hill, Thornbury, South Gloucestershire BS35 3JB, 03003 330300, www.activecentres.org/ for-kids/holiday-programme, 9am, £21.50 (Age 5-11 yrs), booking essential • Play a variety of golfing games while experts give tips and pointers on how to improve your skills.
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clean up Barrs Court Moat. Games and face painting will entertain throughout the afternoon.
THU 29 AUG ANIMAL ANTICS Kingswood Leisure Centre, Soundwell, Bristol BS16 4RH, 03003 330300, www.activecentres.org/ for-kids/holiday-programme, 9am, £21.50 (Age 5 to 14yrs), booking essential • A fun-filled day of games and activities where children meet and learn about the animals from ZOOLAB. Discover which animals can out-run, out-jump and out-lift the fastest and strongest athletes. THU 29 AUG WILD WEST CRAFTS The American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath BA2 7BD. 01225 460503, www.americanmuseum.org, 1-4pm, gardens admission only • Create your own treasure map and make a box to fill with gold nuggets. THU 29 AUG THE COMEDY OF ERRORS Old Down Country Park, Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol BS32 4PG, 01454 414081, www.olddownpark.co.uk, 7.30pm (performance), £14 (adults)/£8 (children) • See Fri 26 Jul. FRI 30 AUG-SUN 1 SEP HORSE TRIALS Longleat, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 7NW. 01985 844400, www. longleat.co.uk • Unaffiliated and open event aimed at the amateur rider. FRI 30 AUG-SUN 8 SEP BRISTOL FESTIVAL OF PUPPETRY Brewery Theatre, 291 North Street, Southville, Bristol BS3 1JP. 0117 902 0344, www.tobaccofactorytheatre.com, check website for times & prices • Alongside the programme of shows and films, there will be an exhibition featuring some of Aardman’s best-known characters, the latenight Smoking Puppet Cabaret and the stupendous Creatures of Southville Carnival returning to the streets to celebrate the opening of the festival. SAT 31 AUG PICK-NIC IN THE PARK Barrs Court Moat, Stephens Drive, Longwell Green, Bristol BS30 7JB. 07811 065046, 12pm, free • Bring a picnic and get into the community spirit at this conservation event to
SAT 7 SEP FAMILY FUN DAY Yate Leisure Centre, Kennedy Way, Yate, Gloucestershire, BS37 4DQ, 03003 330300, www.activecentres. org/for-kids/holiday-programme, 12pm, free • Get involved in a day of fun at Yate leisure centre. THU 12-SAT 14 SEP THE LION, THE WITCH & THE WARDROBE Hanham Community Centre, High St, Hanham, Bristol BS15 3EJ. 0117 967 4439, www.hanhamplayers.org, from £7 • Hanham Players present the classic story of the journey to Narnia with a vibrant young cast and fantastical settings. SUN 15 SEP NORTH COTSWOLD FAMILY FOOD & FARMING FESTIVAL Bourton Vale Cricket Club, Rissington Road, Bourton on the Water, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 2AY. 01451 821800 • A day packed with family activities: children’s bouncy castle, wellie throwing, dog show, tractor displays, animal touch pens and face painting. Parents can enjoy cooking demonstrations from leading Cotswold chef Rob Rees. Local hot and cold produce is available to buy at this fundraiser for Bourton Vale Cricket Club. SUN 15 SEP HEAD4HEIGHTS FAMILY ACTIVITY DAY Cotswold Country Park. www.cotswoldcountrypark.com, prices tbc (include free entry to park & refreshments), all proceeds will go to James Hopkins Trust • Enjoy this stunning park while raising donations for the James Hopkins Trust. More information will be uploaded to the website closer to the time. SUN 15 SEP BRISTOL HALF MARATHON Start & finish on the Harbourside adjacent to Anchor Road. 01782 396113, www.runbristol.com, minimum age 17 years • If you’re not old enough to take part, you can still cheer on the runners on this scenic route through Bristol. LISTINGS BY RICHARD HATTERSLEY, ALEX SAUNDERS AND LAURA EASLICK
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
d r a o b n Pi
Parents’ & teachers’
news, education & contacts
Jack’s magic Holiday adventures Give your kids the chance to learn a sport or new dance style, have a splashing time in an inflatable pool or learn to swim. They can make new friends and try many more activities at fun-packed summer holiday activity camps and drop-in sessions throughout North Somerset. With a great range of different activities at three leisure centres, Hutton Moor (Weston-super-Mare), Scotch Horn (Nailsea) and Backwell, you’re sure to find something they will enjoy. Camp Adventure holiday clubs offer full or half day sessions with plenty of sport, activities and games suitable for children aged 5 to 12 years. Starting Tue 23 Jul and running until Fri 30 Aug, there is plenty to keep the kids busy if you have to work, or just want a day off! New for 2013 at Hutton Moor (Ofsted registered) Camp Adventure: breakfast club from 8am (booking required), extended collection time to 5.30pm and special offer; book four days get fifth free (booked and paid in one transaction). Ffi: W: www.leisurecentre.com
Summer Fish-tival Sat 20 Jul-Sun 1 Sep Dive in to a summer of fun events and themed activities at Bristol Aquarium over the school holidays; discover the amazing aquatic animals that live around our coastline, from elegant seahorses and acrobatic octopus to graceful sharks and giant stingrays. The aquarium offers a whistlestop tour of the world’s oceans, to find out where our more exotic fishy residents come from and learn about the science of the seas. Ffi: W: www.bristolaquarium.co.uk
Jack Stephens is an entertainer of consummate skill; more than just a magician, he brings real variety to his live performances. When it comes to entertaining children, Jack supports his magic with his unique presentations of puppetry, balloon modelling, games, origami and singing to his own guitar accompaniment. Children are enthralled by this diverse combination of entertainment, and Jack’s performance has ensured great parties attended by the children of celebrities such as Bob Geldof, Stuart Pearce, Jools Holland, Jack Russell, Jeremy Guscott, Phil de Glanville, Barry Gibb, Annie Lennox, Midge Ure and many others.Jack is a member of the Magic Circle, The International Brotherhood of Magicians and Equity. Ffi: Jack Stephens, 42 Netherstreet, Bromham, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 2DW. T: 01380 850453 W: www.jackstephens.co.uk E: jackstephens@abra-cadabra.co.uk
Choice is the key Looking to entertain the children over the summer holidays? Why not take them to Monkton’s Summer Holiday Activity Camp? The individuality of the childcare programme at Monkton is the key to its success. It offers flexible childcare for the parents in a fun and stimulating environment for the children. The highly qualified staff offer a tailor-made programme of activities to suit everyone attending each day. Choice is the key for children on these camps. The leaders design each session around the children’s interests and abilities, with emphasis placed on promoting self confidence and self expression, always with a large helping of fun. Monkton also offers more specialised courses throughout the summer including: ‘Characters, Create a Play in a Week’, Bath Rugby’s ‘Up and Unders’, Basketball Coaching, Rookie Life guarding and, of course, the everpopular ‘Come Bake with Us!’ All these courses are very popular so please book early to avoid disappointment. Ffi: T: 01225 721116
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Be a Slimbridge Nature Explorer This summer you and your family can become ‘Nature Explorers’ at Slimbridge Wetland Centre in Gloucestershire. The centre has a whole host of fun activities planned for the summer holidays for children interested in nature which will guarantee them close encounters with wildlife. Each week has a different theme including mammals, insects and nighttime wildlife. These fun activities are hands-on and encourage children to use their investigative and reasoning skills. As well as the Nature Explorer activities, families can take part in daily pond dipping sessions at the Pond Zone area throughout the summer. All the equipment is provided at these free, supervised sessions which run from 2 to 3.30pm. The raised ponds at WWT Slimbridge come alive in the summer with aquatic creatures including water boat men, pond skaters, snails, bloodworms and fish. Ffi: W: www.wwt.org.uk/slimbridge
A simple solution to lost property. My Name Label makes it easier for children to take responsibility for their belongings and avoid the lost property box with eye-catching labels that you can design yourself using a range of lettering styles and pictures. Personalised name stickers are ideal for lunch boxes, drink containers, bags, books - anything with a clean smooth surface, and they are microwave and dishwasher safe on most plastics. There’s no need to worry about reapplying washed off marker pen! Also available are iron-on clothing labels, shoe labels, bag tags, school book labels and more. My Name Label can also be used as a fundraiser with minimal effort. Secure on-line ordering available. Ffi: T: 0870 850 7897 W: www.mynamelabel.co.uk
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d r a o b n Pi Park and slides
All aboard! Step on board a time machine on the ss Great Britain to celebrate its 170th Anniversary. Families can experience the sights, sounds and smells of a Victorian luxury passenger liner. Once on board, visitors are surrounded by a glass ‘sea’ and are able to step ‘underwater’ and below deck where there are recreations of a first class dining saloon and the less appealing living quarters for the poorer travellers in the Steerage area. The Dockyard Museum is situated nearby where the story of the ss Great Britain is told using interactive displays. Exciting summer anniversary events include the ’Gromit Unleashed’ charity event for the Bristol Children’s Hospital on 1 July showcasing the spoof, painted sculpture ‘Being Gromit-Malkovich’ by local artist Thomas W Dowdeswell, and the Bristol Harbour Festival, 27 to 28 July. See website and Roundabout for other regular activities. Ffi: ss Great Britain Great Western Dockyard, Bristol, BS1 6TY T: 0117 926 0680 W: www.ssgreatbritain.org
You can do magic Known as one of the best magicians around, professional magician Richard Ballinger’s magic shows have astonished UK audiences of all ages for more than 25 years. Richard’s skills in cabaret, children’s close up magic and comedy have made him one of the most experienced magicians in the South West. Whether you are a school age child, parent or teacher, Richard’s magic shows will never fail to disappoint, mystifying and amusing his audience in equal measure – just look at the testimonials on his website for some common reactions to his shows. As a qualified teacher, Richard also runs a ‘Training With Magic’ programme and magic workshops for children, adults and organisations who are keen to learn a few new tricks. Whatever the occasion, Richard will ensure that you’ll have an experience to remember. Ffi: T: 01934 418184 W: www.richard-ballinger.co.uk
Avon Valley Country Park fuses fun and education to provide children with an appreciation of the natural world. The grounds span 50 acres of beautiful countryside and its residents include a wide range of animals. Vistors’ afternoons are filled with animal interaction in ‘Pets Corner’. There are also regular displays of falconry at weekends and school holidays. The riverbank experience is popular and you can enjoy the boating lake and the one-and-a-half mile walk. The park is open every day from April to the end of October. In winter (November to March) the large indoor play barn is open at weekends and school holidays. With its fast slides, climbing and bouncy areas, it’s a favourite with our junior guests come rain or shine. Ffi: W: www.avonvalleycountrypark. com
A step back in time With over 2,000 years of history to explore at Cardiff Castle, there’s plenty to keep everyone enthralled. Roman soldiers slept there, noble knights held court there and one of the richest families in Britain transformed the Castle into a Welsh Victorian Camelot. Families can take time to see the fairy-tale apartments with the most elaborate decoration or climb to the top of the Keep for some spectacular views of the city. Other attractions include a film show, exhibition and audio tour. Children can dress up or act out their own puppet show in the children’s activity area and a close look at the birds of prey in the falconry is a must. Throughout the year the castle stages a packed events programme including children’s workshops and large scale re-enactments such as the Grand Medieval Mêlée (17–18 August). Ffi: Cardiff Castle Castle Street, Cardiff, CF10 3RB T: 02920 878100 W: www.cardiffcastle.com
Parents’ & teachers’
news, education & contacts
To the rescue
Meet foals born of rescued mothers at the Bristol equine welfare charity HorseWorld at its Visitor Centre over the summer holidays. HorseWorld focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating and re-homing horses, ponies and donkeys throughout the year. Two of its residents, Destiny (pictured) and Luna, were born this May after their mothers were rescued from neglect. The charity opened its award-winning Visitor Centre in 2000, giving the public the opportunity to visit rescued animals and learn more about their stories. As well as rescued horses, ponies and donkeys, it is a refuge for hens, ducks, goats, ferrets and pigs. There are over eight acres of adventure to explore, with indoor and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy the experience of caring for a pony in the supervised ‘Touch and Groom’ stables and help with interactive feeding. Ffi: HorseWorld Staunton Lane, Whitchurch, Bristol, BS14 0QL W: www.horseworld.org.uk T: 01275 893034
Kids at Clinks Charles Clinkard - why shop anywhere else? At Charles Clinkard - Kids at Clinks, customers are rewarded for their loyalty. By buying six pairs of shoes over a 12 month period, customers receive up to 50% off their next purchase. Simply ask the sales consultants in the stores for further details about the customer loyalty scheme and save money on quality branded footwear for all the family. This offer applies to full price purchases of footwear from the ladies, men’s and children’s departments. Visit the website for your nearest store. Ffi: W: www.charlesclinkard.co.uk
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Adver tising Feature
Achieve more . . . Focus, ambition, growth and vitality in the heart of Bristol . . . Focus City Academy is a flexible learning environment, tailored to the needs of each and every one of its students so that they can make the most of a unique opportunity to achieve more every day. . . . Ambition City Academy is a single-minded community of students and staff committed to seeing every student reach higher and further, achieving more every day, regardless of individual challenges or ability. At the City Academy, learning comes first. It is at the forefront of educational practice and the collaborative, stimulating learning environment addresses every student’s learning needs. The Academy develops personal programmes to meet the aspirations and expectations of the most able learners and works to enhance learning opportunities for everyone in the community, including access to higher education. . . . Growth City Academy gives every student the space to grow and develop to their full potential – learning and achieving more together in a safe and supportive environment as part of the local community. The Academy has a large team of people dedicated to supporting young people, from a nurse to counselling services and specialists available to help children with their learning needs. . . . Vitality City Academy is an exciting, inspiring place, empowering every student, their families and their community to achieve more – more than expected, more than anywhere else. • Ffi The City Academy Bristol Russell Town Avenue, Redfield, Bristol, BS5 9JH T: 0117 941 3800 W: www.cityacademy.bristol. sch.uk
Adver tising Feature
Jumping for joy Jump, Bristol’s premier indoor play centre, is having a very exciting year. Its new nursery is a fantastic addition. Applying the same high standards that customers have come to expect at Jump, Caerleon Child Care provides the very best surroundings when caring for children. With brand new equipment, a beautiful garden and some lovely pets, Caerleon is a wonderful place for children to learn and play in a secure environment. Naturally, being part of the Jump family, Caerleon children also receive exclusive Jump benefits. Caerleon is happy to accept free government places and still has a limited number of term time-only contracts available. Childcare manager Rachel would be delighted to show you around: call her on 0117 979 8980 to make an appointment. The Jump party team has exciting news too. The advanced discount on children’s parties has just got even better. Now you only need to book four months in advance to receive a massive 20% off your booking. Parties can be secured with only a £20 deposit, so there is no reason not to plan ahead this summer. Give Jump a call on 0117 931 2733 for more information. “We look forward to seeing you all over the summer holidays for our fantastic free activity programme and prize giveaways,” says the Jump team. “We have loads to look forward to!” • Ffi Jump Bristol 22 Concorde Road, Cribbs Causeway, Bristol, BS34 5TB T: 0117 931 2733 W: www.123jump.co.uk
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STORY WRITING COMP!
Join the Wolf pack Bristol Old Vic is taking to the open air with a summer show which will set imaginations aflutter. Following on from ‘Treasure Island’ in 2011, ‘The Boy Who Cried Wolf ...!’ brings together many of Aesop’s famous fables, including ‘The Tortoise and the Hare’, as well as some unfamiliar gems – all adapted by ‘War Horse’ author Michael Morpurgo and retold using director Sally Cookson’s 21st-century theatre magic. In the spirit of summer fun, a grassy meadow will form the set, covering the Georgian street outside the historic theatre. Music plays an intrinsic part, and there’ll be lots of comedy, song and puppetry too, with accomplished actors and clowns Chris Bianchi, Tom Wainwright and Lucy Tuck starring in a sparkling alfresco family treat. To celebrate this extravaganza, Bristol Old Vic is running a story-writing competition open to anyone of primary school age. Let your imagination run wild and come up with your very own illustrated fable. The most eye-catching will be displayed at Bristol Old Vic during the show, while the winner – chosen by Michael Morpurgo – will be published in The Bristol Post. The winner will also get a family ticket to the show, a signed copy of Morpurgo’s ‘Aesop’s Fables’ and a chance to meet the man himself. To enter, send your entry to Summer Story competition, Bristol Old Vic, King Street, Bristol, BS1 4ED by Friday 9 August. For more details, email press@bristololdvic.org.uk or call 0117 949 3993. • Ffi The Boy Who Cried Wolf ...! Outside Bristol Old Vic, King Street, Bristol, BS1 4ED, 13 Jul-1 Sep. T: Tickets from 0117 987 7877. W: www.bristololdvic.org.uk
Adver tising Feature
Going underground Have fun this summer discovering the amazing caverns and ancient iron mines at Clearwell, set in the beautiful Royal Forest of Dean. You wander through nine impressive, well-lit natural caverns connected by winding passageways and going down 100ft underground. The caverns’ beautiful colours are created by iron and minerals in the rocks, while the caves remain at a constant 11 degrees, great for cooling off if the sun becomes too much. Witness the tools and equipment used by miners, including young children, over the past 4,500 years, right up until 1945 when deep mining finally ended. TV companies love the atmospheric caverns and have used them for recent episodes of ‘Dr Who’ and ‘Merlin’. You might even meet the resident ghost – the old man of the mine! For a fantastic adventure you can join an exciting family caving activity where you join a group going deeper: see the website for more information. These trips go well beyond the public pathways, enabling you to see features and workings exactly as the miners left them. The trips involve crawling, scrambling and getting dirty – which makes them an exhilarating experience to spice up the family holidays. • Ffi Clearwell Caves – Ancient Iron Mines Nr. Coleford, Royal Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, GL16 8JR T: 01594 832535 W: www.clearwellcaves.com
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Park life Set in the grounds of Old Down Manor just outside Bristol and with spectacular views across the Severn River valley towards the Welsh mountains, Old Down Country Park is a perfect day out for the whole family. There’s a walled garden, nature trails, traditional farm animals, woodland walks and an adventure playground to explore, including trampolines, zip wire, jumping pillow, doubledecker play bus, sand pits, slides and swings. There’s also a gift shop and a café serving hot and cold snacks, ice creams, gifts and fresh produce for sale from the kitchen gardens. For the summer holidays Old Down has children’s go-kart rides suitable for 3-7 year olds for £2 per ride. Regular craft making activities for children are held in a Mongolian yurt. Animal encounters with a park warden mean you can meet, stroke, feed and hold goats, chicks, rabbits and guinea pigs. A birthday party in Old Down Country Park’s Mongolian yurt costs £7 per child, or bring a group and enjoy a group discounted rate. A family day ticket costs £20, while annual family membership for £87 gives you free park entry for a year and 10% discount in the shop, café, bistro and for special events. See the website and Facebook page for details. On 26 Jul and 29 Aug, Rain Or Shine Theatre Company will be performing in the walled garden. Call 01454 414081 for tickets. • Ffi Old Down Country Park Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol BS32 4PG T: 01454 414081 (office), 01454 414958 (shop, café & bistro) W: www.olddowncountrypark.co.uk
COMING SOON TO YOUR MOBILE DEVICE
Adver tising Feature
Class acts Stagecoach students awarded top marks
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Issue 176 24 May-24 Jul 2013
Also Father’s Day Family festivals Yet more cycling!
Bike to the future
As Bristol’s Biggest Bike Ride reaches 20 this year, families take to cycling in their droves. Page 4 Theatre • Arty Barty • Roundabout • Save money!
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Issue 176 24 May-24 Jul 2013
Also Father’s Day Family festivals Yet more cycling!
Bike to the future
As Bristol’s Biggest Bike Ride reaches 20 this year, families take to cycling in their droves. Page 4 Theatre • Arty Barty • Roundabout • Save money!
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In the spring Stagecoach students at the Long Ashton and Portishead centres were entered for their Performing Arts Awards musical theatre exams. These are similar to a graded exam for flute, ballet or piano, but cover all areas of a stage performer’s skill base. Principal Heidi Hollis reports, “Our results are astonishing!” Every one of the 93 students entered earned well above the standard Pass mark; 63 were awarded Merits, showing strong skill, and 30 were awarded Distinctions for excellence in the performing arts. “I’m especially proud of our eldest students,” says Heidi. “Rosie and Taynee took on a huge challenge with Grade 6, and they both got Distinctions! They’ve earned valuable UCAS points and learned a tremendous amount along the way.” Now completing her 10th year as a Stagecoach principal, Heidi credits two things for this success: “When our students attend their weekly classes, they are challenged to use their imaginations, speak clearly, work together as a team and use their physical skills in inventive ways. This sets them up beautifully to present themselves with confidence to the wider world.” A national network of performing arts schools, Stagecoach is 25 years old, running in the North Somerset area for over 13 years. In that time many, many children have enjoyed its trademark inclusive ethos. • Ffi Stagecoach T: 0117 953 2500 W: www.stagecoach.co.uk
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Sea for yourself
Sat 23rd - Sun 24th March, Wed 27th - March
Get your hands wet this summer and join SeaQuarium’s Hands On team as they encourage you to delve deeper into its weird and wonderful world. If you’ve ever wanted to know what an anemone feels like or what a mermaid’s purse is, don’t miss the touch pool interactions. You can help feed the koi carp or even create a handmade souvenir to take home during a sea-themed creative play session. SeaQuarium showcases a range of species from around the world in eight different zones, and there are more than 30 exhibits where the Hands On team are available each and every day to answer any questions about everything from silly animal names and funny facts to weird fish personalities – it’s a chance to hear about the many creatures to be found at Weston SeaQuarium directly from the staff who care for them. The centre’s newest arrivals, the Moon Jellyfish, have a fun remote control for their light so you can come and see them glow in your favourite colour. Committed to creating a fun and hands-on atmosphere in which all ages can explore the amazing underwater world, SeaQuarium is an all-weather family attraction, exhibiting species which live on tropical reefs and in rainforest rivers as well as those from the waters on our own doorstep. • Ffi SeaQuarium Marine Parade, Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset BS23 1BE T: 01934 613361 W: www.seaquarium.co.uk
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Best foot forward The kids have just broken up for the summer, but you’re probably already thinking about preparing for their return. SoleLution, a family shoe shop with branches in Portishead and Clifton Village, can make your lives easier. You can buy all your school footwear needs – shoes, plimsoles, trainers, socks and tights, shoe protector and polish – all in one place. SoleLution’s fully trained staff will ensure that your child’s shoes are fitted correctly and comfortably. Brands such as Start-rite, Hush Puppies, Ricosta, Pediped, Camper and Geox all manufacture quality shoes designed with a child’s needs in mind. SoleLution carry stock from a junior 7 to an adult 8 for girls and a 10 in boys’ school shoes in most width fittings. If your size is not in stock, they can place special orders with some suppliers. Start-rite and Hush Puppies usually deliver within 3-5 working days. “Unfortunately for the customer this is our busiest time for children’s shoes, so come prepared to wait,” says owner Tanya Marriott. “We like to give each family the best service we can, so remember when you are waiting that we might look like we’re unaware you are waiting, but we need to make sure the fit is right for those being served, just as we will for you. We tend to be less busy first thing in the morning.” SoleLution also like to give something back to you through their loyalty scheme and to the schools via their School Voucher Scheme. • Ffi SoleLution 114 High Street, Portishead, BS20 6PR T: 01275 843399; 1-2 Boyces Avenue, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 4AA T: 0117 973 8350 W: www.solelution.co.uk
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Welcome to the great
Brean Leisure Park
outdoors!
Give your family a great lungful of fresh air this summer at the West’s open air attractions. Richard Hattersley is your guide round everything from country houses and adventure gardens to railways and caves.
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are connected by winding passageways. Kitted in a helmet and a lamp, visitors clamber into the historic workings.
hether you want to hang out with the monkeys, soar with the wildfowl or revisit the Romans, the West Country has some of the most exciting, family-friendly attractions in Britain. This summer they’re all keen to offer families some of their most memorable moments of the holiday season so, if you’re planning a day out in the next few months, keep hold of this bumper list for inspiration. AVON VALLEY COUNTRY PARK Pixash Lane, Keynsham, Bristol, BS31 1TP. 0117 986 4929, www. avonvalleycountrypark.com, 10am-6pm open every day, £8 adult/£7.50 children (2-16 years)/ children under 2 free. Avon Valley has everything from the cuddly rabbits to the exotic ostrich and leaping kangaroo. There’s adventure as well, with a play park, go-karting and crazy golf. BIBURY TROUT FARM Arlington, Bibury, Cirencester, GL7 5NL. 01285 740215, www. biburytroutfarm.co.uk, 8am5pm, £3.95 adults/£2.95 children/£12.50 family. Founded just over 100 years ago by naturalist Arthur Severn to restock local rivers, Bibury now covers 15 acres of the beautiful Coln Valley in the Cotswolds. Children will love watching trout
Bibury Trout Farm
leap while there’s a large variety of other wildlife on the farm. BRAYDON MAIZE MAZE Braydon Manor, Braydon, Swindon, SN5 0AG. 01666 800001, www. braydonmaizemaze.co.uk, 10am7pm (Mon-Fri), 10am-6pm (SatSun), £6 adult/ £4 children/ £18 family/under 3s free. Lose yourself in the Wiltshire countryside in this agricultural labyrinth. Summer openings depends on the growth of the crop so check website for details. BREAN LEISURE PARK Brean sands, Somerset, TA8 2QY. 01278 751595, www.funcitybrean. co.uk. Avon Valley Country Park
Enjoy a fabulous array of rides at Fun City, Brean Down. Alternatively, tour the Sooty TV studio and meet the wandwielding bear and his friends, Sweep and Sue, in person. With a mix of thrill rides and children’s rides, there is something here for all ages. BRISTOL CITY SIGHTSEEING 0742 578 8123, www. citysightseeingbristol.co.uk, various tours run 9am-5pm. Never before has taking the bus been such fun. Enjoy Bristol’s iconic sites from the upper deck of an open-top bus. The infectious enthusiasm of the tour guides helps elucidate the architecture of the city and world famous landmarks like the ss Great Britain or the Clifton Suspension Bridge. The hop-on bus service allows you to take part in other days out with a discount that you collect from the driver. CLEARWELL CAVES The Rocks, Coleford, Gloucestershire, GL16 8JR. 0159 483 2535, www. clearwellcaves.com, 10am5pm daily, £6.50 adults/£5.50 children/£20 family. Follow in the footsteps of a generation of miners and explore some of Britain’s oldest mine workings, put to use in a recent episode of ‘Doctor Who’. Nine caverns
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COTSWOLD WILDLIFE PARK Bradwell Grove, Burford, Oxfordshire OX18 4JP. 01993 823006, www. cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk, 10am6pm, £14 adult/£9.50 children (3-16 years)/children under 3 free. See eye to eye with a giraffe, or watch a penguin’s feeding time. There are also lemurs, lions, reptiles, amphibians and birds from around the world. Daily activities including a children’s farmyard, and an informative talk at Lemur feeding time. A railway helps you see everything the park has to offer. DEAN FOREST RAILWAY The Orchard, Woolaston, Gloucestershire, GL15 4ET. 0159 484 5840, www. deanforestrailway.co.uk. Set in the beautiful Forest of Dean, this railway harks back to a bygone era. A range of locomotives come to life
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01793 780555, www.farmergows. co.uk, 10am-5pm, £7 adults, £6 children, £24 family. Get a real hands-on experience feeding and petting the farmyard animals, from the chickens to the pigs. Children can also spend hours playing in the play area or clambering up the bales of hay, where there are daily treasure hunts. Budding young farmers have the choice of over 30 tractors to drive.
Longleat
thanks to the enthusiasm of the drivers. Look out for special events, such as Thomas and his friends making a special stop in August. And there’s also the opportunity to drive the train. DICK WHITTINGTON FARM PARK Little London, Longhope, Gloucestershire, GL17 0PH. 01452 831000, www.dickwhittington.org, 10am-5pm daily, £5 adults/£6.50 children (3-10 yrs old)/£5.50 under 3s/babies free/£22 family pass. Dick Whittington’s famous feline travelling companion would surely approve of the fun children can have with the friendly animals. With an Aquarium room, Shetland ponies, deer and all the farm yard animals, this is a great family attraction. Also an indoor play area with electronic go karting and tractor rides. FARMER GOW’S ACTIVITY FARM Fernham Road, Longcot, nr Faringdon, Oxfordshire, SN7 7PR.
HORSEWORLD Staunton Manor Farm, Staunton Ln, Bristol, Avon BS14 0QL. 01275 540173, www.horseworld. org.uk, 10am-5pm, £7.95 adults/£5.95 children/£24.95 family/children under 3 free. A wonderful sanctuary for horses and donkeys, many of whom have been ill-treated in their previous homes. Meet the rescued animals, and take part in the feeding. Children can round off their visit in the indoor play barn. LACOCK Lacock, near Chippenham, SN15 2LG, 01249 730459, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock, £12 adult/£6 children/£30 family. Unspoilt, historic buildings and picturesque streets are just some of the reasons why Lacock is beloved of local people and filmmakers alike. Set in the heart of this National Trust protected village is the historic Abbey, the perfect backdrop for a tranquil stroll around the grounds. The work of one famous Lacock resident, William Henry Talbot, inventor of photography, is showcased in the eponymous museum. LONGLEAT Longleat, Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 7NW, www.longleat.co.uk, 0198 584 4400, online prices £25.07adults (15-59yrs)/£17.85 child.
Review Bowood House and Gardens www.bowood-house.co.uk We pull into the Bowood House car park beneath glowering skies, having been pummelled by rain on the short journey from Bristol along the M4. But, as Cath, Joe (our three-year-old son), and I wrestle with wellies, galoshes and a frankly inadequate umbrella, the heavens take pity on us. The rain holds off for most of the afternoon, allowing us to enjoy the considerable outdoor delights of Bowood Gardens. This is very much an attraction of two halves. Bowood’s spectacular outdoor climbing area, complete with a wonderful galleon and aerial walkway, offers challenges for children right up to their teenage years. Joe, obviously still pre-school, clambers up ladders and across ‘wobbly bridges’ to his heart’s content and enjoys hurling himself down the abundance of slides. ‘This is fun!’ he exclaims delightedly as he bounces off one helter-skelter creation, only to hurtle back up one of a forest of ladders. With the sun lingering a little longer than expected there’s even the opportunity to spread a blanket on the ground and watch him on his one-child climbing mission. Tearing Joe away from the adventure park so Mum and Dad can get their history fix (the second half of the journey) is made a little easier
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Horseworld, Bristol
Hold onto your wing mirrors as you enter the infamous Monkey Drive-Thru! Longleat is one of the most authentic ways of experiencing wildlife, as you drive past giraffes, rhinos, lions and much more. Now you can ride the Deadly Safari, a spin off from the popular BBC television show Deadly 60. Be sure to check out the new Penguin Island and Stingray Bay which have just opened. Plus a host of non-animal entertainment.
MOJO ACTIVE Over Court Farm, Over Lane, Almondsbury, Bristol, BS32 4DF. 01454 660075, www.mojoactive. co.uk, see website for holiday club prices and times. Turn off the computer and try something more exhilarating and certainly more muddy. A collection of obstacle courses, a tunnel maze, a 100m zip wire and a 7m tall climbing wall. Instructors help with various disciplines including archery.
MARWELL WILDLIFE Thompson’s Ln, Colden Common, Winchester, Hampshire, SO21 1JH. 01962 777407, www.marwell.org. uk, 10am, £18 adult/£14 children (3-16 years)/£60 family. Giraffes roam free in the ‘African Valley’ while dwarf crocodiles lurk in the Tropical World, while the Wallabies inhabit the ‘Australian Bush’. A trip to Marwell takes you around the globe to get close to the wonders of nature. The 140 acre park is home to over 170 exotic and endangered species in beautiful landscaped surroundings. There’s an adventure playground as well.
OLD WARDOUR CASTLE Nr Tisbury, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP3 6RR. 0174 787 0487 www. english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/ properties/old-wardour-castle, 10am-6pm, £4.10 adult/£2.50 children (5-15 years)/members free. Damaged in the English Civil War, this ruined castle provides a perfect setting for a family day out. Explore the grounds and climb the turrets, finding clues in the fun trail. PRIOR PARK LANDSCAPE GARDEN Ralph Allen Drive, Bath, BA2 5AH. 0122 583 3422, www.nationaltrust. org.uk/prior-park, 11am-5.30pm, »
by a strategically placed trampoline. A few bounces later, we pass through a gate to the side of the house, and into the awe-inspiring Capability Browndesigned gardens, whose geometric lines and classical spaces are horticultural poetry. The house’s façade is light and airy – not intimidating like so many country houses – and we coax Joe into the 18th century orangery. It’s slightly nervewracking keeping him under control amid the classical sculptures, but he is certainly impressed by the tiger-skin carpet in the opulent living room: it’s still early days to explain the niceties of wildlife conservation to him but I do my best. After a thoroughly satisfying afternoon for both adults and child, there’s time for a peep at the animals in Tractor Ted’s farm, plus a zip round on the pedal tractors, only whisking the little one away with the promise of a return visit. (Mike Gartside)
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Welcome to the great
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£6.30 adult/£3.50 children/£16 family. Set in a sweeping valley with wonderful views of Bath, this 18th century garden is home to wildlife, from badgers and deer, to herons and swans in the peaceful lake. The summerhouse is a perfect retreat to relax and take in the scenery. ROMAN BATHS AND MUSEUM Roman Baths and Museum, Stall Street, Bath, Somerset, BA1 1LZ. www.romanbaths.co.uk, 01225 477785. The historic focal point of Bath, this is an important attraction for locals and tourists alike. The centrepiece, the Roman baths filled with hot spa water forms a backdrop for costumed characters who give you a vivid idea of what life was like for the Romans. Old Wardour Castle
ST AUGUSTINE’S FARM Arlingham, Gloucestershire, GL2 7JR. 01452 740277, www. staugustinesfarm.co.uk, 11am-5pm daily, £5.50 adults)£4.50 children On this fully working farm, you can enjoy milking the cows or feeding the goats. The farm has designated picnic areas for you to enjoy, while children can have fun in the play barn or the adventure park.
St Augustine’s Farm
by Henry Hoare II, are magnificent, as is the cascade into the lake. TYNTESFIELD Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1NX. 0127 546 1900, www.nationaltrust. org.uk/tyntesfield, £13.20 adults/£6.60 children/ £32.90 family ticket for the whole property or £8.10 adult/£4 child/£20.25 family to view the garden and estate. A fine example of Victorian Gothic architecture built by fertiliser magnate William Gibbs, this National Trust property offers a number of ways to have a fabulous day out. From splendid period rooms indoors to the glasshouses and gazebos in the gardens, there’s plenty for the family to enjoy.
SEAQUARIUM Marine Parade, Weston-superMare, North Somerset, BS23 1BE. 01934 613361, www.seaquarium. co.uk, 10am-5pm, £7.99 adults/£5.99 children/under 3s free. It’s not hard to immerse yourself in ocean life, with this Aquarium on Weston’s beach. Once inside, there are eight different zones from tropical fish to the open top ray display. Heading to the underwater tunnel, you’ll find tropical fish and sharks gracefully passing over your head. Both educational and entertaining. SLIMBRIDGE Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT. 01453 891900, www.wwt.org. uk, £11.60 adults/£6.30 children. The 325 hectares of wetland is home to a wealth of resident and migratory wildlife. After admiring the birds, you can try a canoe safari across the lakes yourself (£5 for adults, children go free). There’s a new wild garden, recently featured at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Check the website or Roundabout for activities such as talks or workshops.
Westonbirt Arboretum
STOURHEAD Nr. Mere, BA12 6QD, 0174 784 1152, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ stourhead/, 9am-7pm (garden), 11am-4.30pm (house). Surrounding the house is the tranquil gardens and lake. The views and buildings of the garden takes inspiration from ancient Rome, including the spectacular Pantheon. The buildings, designed
WESTONBIRT ARBORETUM Tetbury, Gloucestershire, GL8 8QS, 0166 688 0220, www. forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt, 9am-6pm weekdays, 8am-6pm weekends, £8 (adults) and kids go free until 1 Sep. Boasting over 17 miles of accessible paths, with 16,000 trees for children to explore, this vast woodland is perfect to take a picnic, or leisurely walk. As well as the trees, the arboretum is a wonderful natural showcase of the flowers that flourish on British grasslands in the summer.
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The elephants are coming! Emma Gorton checks progress on the accommodation being prepared for the African elephants arriving at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm.
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t’s been a long time coming, but there’s a real sense of excitement in the air now at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Wraxall. Diggers are at work in custom-made pens as the zookeepers prepare to welcome six African elephants, originally scheduled to arrive earlier this year. My three children, Lucian (9), Mika (6) and Sylvie (18 months), and I brave a rainy Saturday to join the farm’s enclosure tour (running daily at 1.45pm) to see and hear about the elephants’ new home. The five females and one bull elephant will move into the enclosure this summer and we can’t wait to see them. As with most of Noah’s Ark’s enclosures, the area outside is large and includes a pool, a sand field and up to 20 acres of space for the elephants to wander in. There are plans for more enclosures, housing even more elephants as the zoo farm hopes to start a breeding programme leading to a small herd of around 12 elephants. It also hopes to welcome the now-endangered Indian
The elephant enclosure is prepared
elephant as well, in separate enclosures, so there are already plans to expand the current facilities. Happily, these are much larger than the recommended space for elephants in captivity. The inside enclosure is an interesting space where the elephants can eat, sleep and get cleaned and cared for by the keepers, who will let them live as independently as possible. The floor will be covered with sand to make it more comfortable for the animals, allowing them to sleep lying down (we were shocked to hear that, in some concrete based enclosures, elephants
just lean against a wall to sleep). Sand-based enclosures are also hygienic, helping to keep birthing female elephants comfortable and protecting their babies. Other great features of the enclosure include a computerised 24 hour feeding system where food is lowered down, requiring the elephants to stretch for their food, mimicking how elephants feed when in the wild; elephant sized scales and showers; solar powered lighting and electricity; and fans, heating and sprinkler systems to keep the sand in good condition.
Visitors will be able to watch the elephants from an impressive and fully open public viewing area, offering them the full sensory experience, including smell, which delighted my two sons! It’s clear that a lot of thought and care has gone into planning the elephants’ accommodation and this tour was highly informative. Back outside, the sun was shining and my sons were able to play in the different adventure playgrounds including their personal favourite zip lines and swinging tyres. Meanwhile, baby Sylvie was happy with the slides and was most impressed with the tigers and the giraffes. Personally, I always love the lions and the rhinos, and find it so surreal to see these exotic animals in a field near Bristol. It’s easy to spend the whole day at Noah’s Ark. Even on
a rainy day, you can still visit the animals and let the kids play for hours in the indoor play parks, with soft play and slides for the little ones and the amazing vertical drop slide for the older kids. We always seem to stay at the farm until it closes and this trip was no exception. Now we can’t wait to go back at the end of the holidays to meet the elephants. Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm Clevedon Road, Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1PG T: 01275 852606 W: www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk E: info@noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk PRIMARY TIMES
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Arty Barty Hello Kids!
Thank you so much for the wonderful pictures you send me . The standard is always high so please try again if your entry didn’t get published. This summer I have teamed up with our friends at SeaQuarium in Westonsuper-Mare, who have very kindly offered a family ticket to three lucky artists who send me their best painting of a clown fish and his friends. If you’re stuck, you may remember a clown fish was the subject of a famous animated film a few years ago. Please send your pictures to: Arty Barty, Venue Publishing, BN&Media, Temple Way, Bristol, BS99 7HD, or email high resolution jpegs to my editor, mike.gartside@venue. co.uk. Don’t forget to put your name, age, full home postal address and school on the back: deadline Monday 17 June.
Last issue, I asked you to send in your pictures of ‘The crew putting to sea in the ss Great Britain’. Well done to the three winners who receive a family ticket to this fabulous maritime attraction. Scott Granger, E Primary Scho7, Preshute C of ol, Marlborough, Wilts What a bright an hire of the ss Great Brd lively painting itain! Scott has captured the depth of the water brilliantly by using curved brush strokes to create wa ve s. His bold style makes the ship see and I like the wa m big and powerful y that the people really small next look to it. The detail the people’s colou red hats is fantasof tic!
WINNER!
Nicholas Nikiforou, 6, Kewstoke Primary School, Weston-super-Mare A beautifully-drawn image of the vessel using wax crayons. I like the contrast between the bright blue sea and the vibrant pink sky; the image is powerful and captures this historic moment well. Nicholas’s attention to detail in his drawing of the boat is excellent.
WINNER!
Have fun!
Arty
Alys Wood, 6, Henleaze Infant School, Henleaze This is a cheerful and ene , Bristol cially in the decoration rgetic drawing full of colour and detail, esp earo und the hull. The passenger on board are particularl s and sailors and lots of thought has y well drawn; their faces are full of expressio I also like the colourful gone into the design of their clothes and hat n flags, which really stand s. powerful ship. out against the large,
PS. I’m so sorry but, because of the large numbers of entries, we can’t return your pictures, so please make a copy of anything precious to you before you send it.
WORD PUZZLE
FIND THE LETTERS TO SPELL OUT SEASIDE THINGS
Hidden below are: sandcastle, kite, icelolly, lifeguard, buckets, spade, shell, surfboard, seagull, boat, starfish, ocean, crab, sun, rock.
B U C K E D K I T E
T S D E L H N S L T
R S A T U A G R
C E L O
S L F C
E D R E
P B A G A D A N
U R F B
T S A C
A O B E
E F I L
L L Y Y
S C S N
K B C U
I R A S
O A R D
D N A S
R O C K
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F I S H
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A S P O
Kimberly Ryan, 7, St. , ool Sampson’s Infant Sche Cricklade, Wiltshir vessel in Kimberly has drawn theg the dark great detail, brightenin sunny hull with a cheerful and ting facts background. The interesn at the have been neatly writteand she bottom of the drawing the screw has vividly highlighted te her propeller in red to illustra s are also text. The colourful flag eye-catching.
WINNER!
Chiharu Foster, 8, Elm lea School, Westbury-on Junior -Trym, Bristol Chiharu has bravely dra ship from the bow, or frown the is much harder than a nt, which shows that she undersprofile, and tands simple perspective. She has of time and care into thisput lots and I especially like the picture has captured the momeway she people are boarding thent where their luggage. See if you ship with the smiley face looking can spot out of the window!
PRIMARY TIMES
7/2/2013 3:15:05 PM
or
Laura Easlick, Zhenja May and Richard Hattersley review the new releases.
Understanding epilepsy Honestly written and thoughtfully illustrated by seven-year-old Layla, whose mother is epileptic, this pocket-sized book is both touching and educational. Full of practical advice about how to look after a relative who suffers from epileptic seizures, it is beautifully and accurately written by a child for other children. The book, shown to Pomegranate Books by Layla’s mother, offers detailed information about how children can help an epileptic relative without coming across as difficult or frightening; Layla uses the advice she has been given to remind other children to keep calm and follow the instructions given in her book. The illustrations, although simple and child-like, are an accurate representation of each scenario that Layla or other children in a similar situation could be faced with. The book does not only mention how to cope with a typical seizure but also shows how everyday activities such as cooking, bath-time and using transport are affected by epilepsy. This reminds the reader that the book is written by a young expert and we see the world through her eyes. Sensitive and enlightening, this book is ideal for any child, and indeed adult, dealing with or wanting to learn about epilepsy. (Laura Easlick) Epilepsy Book For Kids by Layla Reid, Pomegranate Books, £6.50, www.pomegranatebooks.co.uk
H.I.V.E. of activity
Pony tales
In the eighth adventure from the popular H.I.V.E series, the protagonist Otto is expelled from the Higher Institute of Villainous Education, a school which makes J.K. Rowling’s Hogwarts seem tame. When Anastasia Furan, leader of the Disciples (a criminal gang) captures Otto’s friend Laura, Otto proceeds to look for her, aware of Furan’s brutal plans. The adrenalin-filled adventure takes the reader on an exciting journey from the canals of Venice to the wastes of Antarctica. A guaranteed page-turner, this fastpaced story will have the young reader hooked from the first chapter. The narrative and the futuristic characters feel like they have leapt out of a computer game. Combine this with unexpected humour and it’s easy to see this is ultimate escapism for boys. (Laura Easlick)
Fans of My Little Pony franchise will adore the new Princess Ponies series, detailing the whirlwind adventure of a young girl, Pippa, who leaves her family in order to save the enchanted world Chevalia, inhabited by talking horses. The ponies become an endearing surrogate family to Pippa, herself an embodiment of every young girl’s fantasy. Pippa’s journey teaches us the importance of bravery and family, making great reading for girls aged 7and over who want to delve into a fantastical story independently. With interesting fictional interviews and news bulletin sections, the books add a sense of fantastical realism and familiarise young readers with the formats of newspaper reporting. With six books in the series, young princesses are sure to busily read each exciting episode of the magical journey so far. (Zhenja May)
Deadlock by Mark Walden, Bloomsbury, £6.99, www.bloomsbury. com
Princess Ponies by Chloe Ryder, Bloomsbury, £4.99 each, www. bloomsbury.com
Right said Fred
Uneasy tiger
With colourful illustrations and a humorous storyline, the dopey character of Fred the dog who just won’t go to sleep could easily become a children’s bedtime classic. In various beautifully drawn and painted images, Fred bounces from garden to bedroom to bath in a mischievous manner mimicking (for parents) the defiance of children not wanting to go to bed. The large book with short and clear text is perfect for young children to read together with their parents. Children will be able to distinguish where to put emphasis when reading the book aloud. Illustrations of Fred jump across the pages, leaving cliff hangers for young readers who will be compelled to turn the page. Writer and illustrator Yasmeen Ismail’s debut picture book is an amalgamation of influences from her own childhood books, which will whet younger readers’ appetite for reading. (Zhenja May)
How do you handle a tiger with a toothache? Following a trip to their own dentist, Tom and his sister Sophie become young tooth detectives at London Zoo. After inspecting the animals’ mouths, the children soon come across a tiger in severe need of dental assistance. But, back home, they face another challenge as another carnivore leaves mangled cabbage leaves around the house. The latest instalment in Adam Frost and Mark Chamber’s ‘Zoo Story’ series, this playful book follows the adventures of Tom and Sophie whose parents work at London Zoo. Refreshingly, it’s not anthropomorphic, presenting animals as they really are, rather than imbuing them with humanstyle emotions. Suitable for children aged 7-9, this toothy tale takes a fun look at the iconic zoo and is packed with informative animal facts. (Richard Hattersley)
Time for Bed, Fred! Yasmeen Ismail, Bloomsbury, paperback and ebook £6.99, hardback £10.99, www.bloomsbury.com
Hide! The Tiger’s Mouth is Open Wide! by Adam Frost, Bloomsbury, £4.99, www.bloomsbury.com
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Classifieds Dance DOES YOUR CHILD DANCE AROUND THE LIVING ROOM DREAMING OF STARDOM? Call Avon Dance Academy on: 01761 479026 or visit: avondanceacademy.co.uk Children learn through structured `syllabi, designed to strengthen technique and performance. WE OFFER R.A.D AND I.S.T.D EXAMINATIONS.
Eductional Psychology Parkhouse Psychology Service Ltd. I can provide an assessment of your child to evaluate their educational needs including intellectual potential, memory skills, processing speed, reading, spelling , numeracy, learning style, self esteem and social skills and offer strategies to support your child.
Horse Riding
Party Ideas
Wapley Riding Stables
Riding Lessons for all ages and abilities • Patient and friendly tuition • Good selection of horses and ponies available • All aspects of riding, horse care and stable management • BHSAI Qualified and Experienced Instructors • Floodlit outdoor riding arenas • Gift vouchers available
Tel: 0117 908 1291 www.ezzomagic.co.uk
I work term times and school holidays. I accept referrals from parents and schools.
Peter Parkhouse
www.vstage.co.uk 07896 664 330
01934 621622 pete@parkhousepsychology.com
VStage is for Singing, Dancing and Acting lessons and takes place at Mangotsfield Secondary School (BS16 9LH).
Wapley Hill, Westerleigh, Bristol. BS37 8RJ 01454 321583 or 07860530199
Martial Arts
Vickys Dance & Fitness (www.vickysdance.com) also offer a range of dance classes for boys and girls as well as Pilates for adults.
Days Out
enquiries@wapleystables.co.uk www.wapleystables.co.uk
HANHAM & DOWNEND TAEKWON-DO
Fencing Clubs
Family Voucher 2 adults and 2 children for just £14.50
Modern martial arts in a fun and friendly environment • Little Puma’s 4-6 yrs • Juniors 6-12 yrs • Cadets 12-16 yrs • Adults 16+ For information or to book TWO FREE trial classes contact instructor Ms Tiina Elise 07729 358691 or hdtkd@live.com (please quote Primary Times)
Or the whole party package: Disco Magic Fun and Games
Nursery
Tel 07713353430 www.rockysmagicparties.com
Honey Tots Day Nursery
Tel: 0117 9297771 Open 10am - 11pm
21 - 23 Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3PY
Gymnastics
BALLOON MODELLING AT YOUR PARTY
• Warm, caring and experienced qualified staff • A clean safe environment • 5 minute walk from Broadmead. • Catered meals
• Ages 3 months - 5 years • Open from 8am - 5:30 pm. Government funded places for 3-5 year olds - Year 2013/14 still available.
For more information please contact the Nursery Manager Farah Khan on 0117 9243100 email:honeytotsdaynursery@yahoo.co.uk
Parties In Nature www.partiesinnature.co.uk
Parties with Bricks www.partieswithbricks.co.uk
call Alexandra: 07982 198195
Opticians Kingswood Foundation BS15 8DB
HOLIDAY FUN SESSIONS FOR CHILDREN AGED 4-11
BOUNCY CASTLE, GYMNASTICS, TRAMPOLINING, AIR TRACK, BADGE WORK, BARS, BEAM, SOFT PLAY, DISCO, PARACHUTE AND CRAFTS. TUES, THURS, FRI 10 AM -3.00 PM £12.00 10 AM – 2PM £10.00 OR ANY 2 HOURS £6.00 BOOKINGS TAKEN OR JUST TURN UP. Phone 0117 947 6449 e-mail: admin@kingswood-gymnastics.co.uk Visit our new website at www.kingswoodgymnastics.co.uk
Dyslexia? Reading difficulties? Visual Stress?
www.bryanthemagician.co.uk
‘Stop the words moving’ We provide colour overlays and coloured glasses
191 Redland Road Bristol BS6 6XP Call us on 0117 9735600 Family friendly and here to help
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TO ADVERTISE CALL CAROLINE ON: 0117 934 3737 OR EMAIL: CAROLINE.STRETTON@B-NM.CO.UK OR RUTH ON: 0117 934 3737 OR EMAIL: RUTH.MORRIS@B-NM.CO.UK
Party Ideas
Swimming
Tuition
Tuition DISCOVERY LEARNING
TUTORING
LEARNING SUCCESS FOR ALL
Music, Lights, Magic, Games, bubbles but most of all....FUN!! TEL: 01275 880 427 MOB: 0779 695 8164 EMAIL: thediscoco@hotmail.co.uk WEB:www.thediscocosouthwest.co.uk Follow us on facebook
COMEDY MAGIC to enhance your event! Magic workshops for older children
• Literacy & Maths 5-11 yr olds • Preparation for SATs & Common Entrance Making swimming lessons fun for all abilities
Clifton: Friday Evening: Non-swimmers to Improvers Saturday Daytime: Non-swimmers to Improvers Saturday Evening: Lane Classes, Adult Learn to Swim, Adult Improvers, Swim for Fitness Monday Evening: Non-Swimmer to Improvers
Westbury-on-Trym:
Mob: 07979 600797 Tel: 01934 418 184
Tuesday Evening: Advanced Lane Classes Wednesday: Non swimmer to Improvers Sunday All Day: All abilities
www.richard-ballinger.co.uk Insured and CRB checked
Register online: www.splash-happy.co.uk Email: hazel@splash-happy.co.uk Tel: 0117 979 8266
• Help with Dyslexia
Tel: JENNY MADDERN 07905 802267 jenny@discoverylearning.co.uk
on violin and recorder • Tuition offered for all ages (of any age) and more • Beginners advanced players are welcome. • I will visit if this is more convenient.
2 hours of fun filled games and dancing, sweets, prizes and much more www.childrens-disco-parties.co.uk Tel: 01275 474 976 Mobile: 07890 744 295 Email: chris@childrens-disco-parties.co.uk
WWW.WAVESSWIMSCHOOL.CO.UK SWIMMING LESSONS FOR ALL AGES WITH QUALIFIED SWIMMING TEACHERS PRE-SCHOOL CLASSES FROM 2.5 YEARS 2 CHILDREN TO 1 TEACHER Saturdays at St. Mary Redcliffe School GROUP LESSONS STARTING AGE CONFIDENT 3.5 YEARS + (20/30 minute lessons) St. Mary Redcliffe School Every week day 4-6pm & Sat 9am onwards Clifton High School, Sunday 9-11am MINI SQUAD 1 HOUR SESSIONS– THURSDAYS & SUNDAYS
Book now for FREE bouncy castle hire Limited period only
SMALL CLASSES A PRIORITY ALWAYS WORKING TOWARD STROKE TECHNIQUE FOR FURTHER INFO & ENQUIRIES, PLEASE CONTACT JENNY 01275 877428 OR JACKIE 01275 790457 CAROLINE 01275 856185 ALL DETAILS ON WEB SITE
Tuition Crime scene investigation parties and workshops for children age 7+
‘Dyslexia - No Child Should Be Left Behind.’
tel 0117 244 0053 web www.thedetectiveproject.co.uk
Mob: 07919 406745 Email: Home: 01934 827742 jonwhittock@gmail.com Ex-Headmaster of a leading Independent Specialist School for children with Dyslexia. Contact me for: • Understandable Advice on School Provision • Initial standardised testing and analysis.
Jon Whittock - Education Advisor.
Learn the Harmonica at school - it’s fun, cheap, cool and easy.
Summer Activities Children’s Arts & Crafts Fridays: 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd August 1.00pm to 2.30pm Ages 4-11years • £2.50 per child (includes drinks) Booking Essential • All children must be accompanied by a parent/carer
The Park Centre High Street, Kingswood, South Glos. BS15 4AR (opposite the Civic Centre) Tel. 01454 862190 Email: enquiries@theparkcentrekingswood.co.uk
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Press the red button at www.HarpsCool.co.uk Harmonica themed Birthday Parties ‘Wow, that’s different!’ 07599 561514 info@harpscool.co.uk
To reach 66,000 families in your area advertise in the next issue of Primary Times. Call Caroline 0117 934 3737 or email caroline.stretton@b-nm.co.uk Or Ruth 0117 934 3737 or email ruth.morris@b-nm.co.uk SUMMER HOLIDAY 2013 43
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FIELD OF DEAN
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new £300,000 classroom and laboratory opened earlier this summer promising to give Bristol pupils a greater opportunity to learn from the great outdoors. The Dean Field Study Centre in the heart of Gloucestershire’s Forest of Dean, has been helping the city’s children and teenagers discover the countryside for 40 years and the new facilities offer them an even greater insight to how the rural environment ticks. As part of the renovation, two older classrooms have been replaced with an octagonal laboratory and a separate classroom that features a living roof, bio boiler and meeting room. Children are able to take their finds from a nearby stream straight to the lab for viewing and study. Owned by Bristol City Council, the converted iron works hosts residential trips for up to 3,000
Bristol children every year. The centre is just one hour away from the city of Bristol and offers children outdoor adventure as well as academic learning. Activities at the centre include rock climbing, abseiling, mountaineering, hill walking, caving, canoeing, kayaking, raft building, field studies, team building, gorge walking and orienteering. The centre accommodates 60 students and six or more staff at any one time. Bristol Primary Schools Easton and Little Mead have already visited Dean Field, while Easton Primary School has been working with parents to fundraise for the trip. Visit the website to find out about the centre and how schools can book, For further information about the centre and how schools can book, visit their website. Ffi: Dean Field Study Centre W: www.bristol.gov.uk/page/ dean-field-studies-centre
DESIGN A CYCLE HELMET
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earing a helmet has been shown to reduce head injuries by up to 88%, but only a meagre 17% of children do so,” says Angela Lee, founder of The Bicycle Helmet Initiative Trust (BHIT). She launched the charity after learning that child cyclists are three times more likely to be killed in an accident than their adult counterparts and has now joined forces with the cycling lubricant manufacturer WD-40 to set children a challenge. She is inviting them to enter a competition to design their own bicycle helmet which could end up saving lives. The competition is open to all primary school students in the UK and the winning entry will be manufactured by helmet specialist Lazer and donated to disadvantaged youngsters. “We know that image and peer pressure is one of the big factors that deter young cyclists from wearing a helmet,” says Angela. “We believe this project will provide an insight into what young people find appealing. It will not
only be fun for children but will also help them learn about road safety.” Children and parents can get involved by informing their school about the initiative and ask a teacher to fill in the online form. BHIT says it will only take about five minutes to complete and the charity will be in touch with the school to continue the process. You never know, encourage your school to take part and, it could be your helmet helping to save your friends’ lives. Ffi: W: www.wd40.co.uk/helmet
GLAMPING ROCKS!
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A LEAGUE OF OUR OWN
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hile Rugby Union grabs the headlines, as the current British Lions tour demonstrates, proponents of Rugby League argue that theirs is an appealing game for youngsters being faster moving with less emphasis on bruising scrums. Perhaps more importantly, Rugby League players get to play in teams with names like the Wigan Warriors, the Leeds Rhinos or, closer to home, The Bristol Sonics. As part of a bid to involve young people in the sport, the junior section of The Sonics is to host a full summer programme of young people’s events in the build-up to the 2013 Rugby League World Cup taking place throughout the UK this autumn. Bristol plays its part in the event, hosting USA vs the Cook Islands fixture on Wednesday 30 October at the Memorial Ground, Horfield, 44
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and youngsters who take part in the Sonics’ programme of training sessions and summer camps will have this match to look forward to at the end of it all. The programme is split into under 14s and under 16s and takes place in secondary schools around Bristol and South Gloucestershire, while some sessions are held at Clifton RFC, Henbury, and continue until Wednesday 4 September.. Or you might prefer just to watch the match in October. So, Junior Rugby Fans, persuade your folks to take you along and see if the sport is for you. Tickets are on sale now at £10/£5, with VIP packages available. Ffi: USA vs The Cook Islands T: 0844 847 2013 W: www.bristol.gov.uk/rlwc2013 Bristol Sonics Junior Section W: www.bristolsonics.com/juniors
amp clothes, a deflated airbed and tent pegs that just will not go into the rocky ground…we all remember these tales from our own childhood. Camping was supposed to be fun and character-building, a chance to be at one with nature. The reality of this was grumpy parents trying to patch up a leak in the tent and a child in tears because a moth had flown into their sleeping-bag. Cue the glamping revolution. The history of glamping, or glamourous camping, goes back to the early 1900s in Africa. Wealthy American and European travelers demanded luxuries whilst on Safari. They wanted an adventure in the great outdoors but they didn’t want to part with their every-day comforts. Their canvas safari tents usually included nice Persian rugs, luxurious bedding, and a chef to prepare meals. Fast forward to the twenty-first century where, according to Google Trends, the keyword first started being searched in 2007. Glamping still enables people to be at one with nature, it just allows them to do so with all the
wonderful comforts of home. Goodyhoo Glamping offers the ultimate glamping retreat at the heart of the Heritage Coast, Vale of Glamorgan, Wales. With dramatic cliffs, gorgeous sandy bays and breath-taking rock structures, this coastline is perfect for family fun or for the adventurous. Goodyhoo Glamping provides families with an unforgettable experience of staying in a fully furnished and spacious canvas bell tent, fully equipped with all the comforts of home in true glamping style. A great destination to escape the stresses of everyday life; no time or tears will be wasted over putting up the tent! Instead, families are able to turn up, settle in quickly and relax in their beautiful surroundings. Ffi: W: goodyhooglamping.co.uk PRIMARY TIMES
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TOP OF THE PRIMARY POPS have tended to listen to up to now. Other Zeamu team members include Jonathan Pilcher, (who’s worked with Lana Del Ray and Athlete) and Grammynominated Owen Parker whose clients include Girls Aloud, Pet Shop Boys and Simple Minds. Zeamu Music has brought out its first CD featuring songs taking in the fears and excitement of childhood, from bullying and nightmares to the joy of sumfans u Barbara Bishop with two Zeam mer holidays. “We forget that, for young children, emotions surrounding friendship or bullying are as intense as the love oddlers love nursery and heartbreak that adult songs rhymes and young teenfocus on,” says Barbara Bishop. agers revel in the latest “Providing kids with music they sounds of the pop charts, can relate to reassures them but who is catering for the 4 they’re not alone, that other chilto 11 age group? It’s a group of dren experience these problems listeners that has long been and gives them a platform to overlooked by the music industry, express themselves”. Songs so but a new record label, Zeamu far have included titles such as Music, intends to plug that gap. ‘It’s the weekend’ and ‘Friend of The label has been put together Mine’. by music producer and writer While Zeamu’s professionals Natalie Barowitz and other pop have written and produced the writers and producers, plus child music, they have invited school psychologist Barbara Bishop and children to sing all the songs, branding experts Fi and Simon which can be downloaded from Case. They plan to create an alterthe website. native to the teen-oriented pop (and its occasionally inappropriFfi: W: www.zeamumusic.com ate lyrics) which primary children
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YOU ONLY HAVE TO ASC
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he creativity of children with an autistic spectrum condition (ASC) and Asperger’s Syndrome is often overlooked, but an art competition, now in its third year, aims to put this right. CREATE! Art for Autism 2013, launched recently at the Houses of Parliament, aims to educate the public about autistic children’s talent and dispel myths about the conditions. The competition, supported by actress Jane Asher, is the brainchild of Wales-based Ludlow Orbis Group which operates a number of specialist residential schools and colleges for those with an ASC and Asperger’s Syndrome. The competition welcomes par-
ticipation from all countries and has seen entries from as far afield as India and Croatia. Organisers are hoping to reach 1,000 entries across five categories – 2D art; 3D art; digital photography; digital animation; and poetry, with prizes for the individual winners and their schools. The West Country is represented this year by Erika Winkley of Maidenhill School, Stonehouse, who’s won a place in the final with her poem ‘Free . . . Will? And a film ‘Ginger Gets a Present’’; Craig Anthony of Castle Secondary School, Thornbury for his film ‘Shark Attack’; and the Green and Yellow Class of Ravenswood School, Nailsea for their ‘Animals’ film. “The standard of work just gets better and better,” says Asher. “It’s so difficult to judge these tremendous pieces of work against each other, but we are pleased with the selection we’ve made. It’s truly inspirational to see how much creativity oozes out of these autistic young people. Enabling them to express themselves through art makes this competition such a worthwhile project.” Ffi: W: www.createart-
Jane Asher and Alun Cairns MP (right) and Glyn Davies MP forautism.co.uk 46
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SWIMMING FOR SAFETY
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s children break up for the summer holidays, 46% of parents in the South West say that their child would not be able to swim to safety if they were in danger in open water. “Swimming and water safety skills needed for survival do not come instinctively, they must be taught,” says David Walker at the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA). Drowning is one of the biggest causes of accidental death in children and 47 children tragically lost their lives in England in 2011 this way. Experts are worried these numbers could increase if school swimming programmes are not improved. The Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) surveyed over 3,000 primary schools nationally and discovered, in the South West, that 42%
of children aged 7 – 11 cannot swim the length of a swimming pool unaided. Only 38% of parents in this region said that their children were currently having swimming lessons at school and 36% said their child’s school doesn’t offer lessons at all. Almost 45% of schools agreed the biggest barrier to delivering better quality swimming was budget constraints. This September each primary school will receive a minimum of £9,000 additional funding to PE & School Sport which the ASA hope will largely be spent on swimming. As ASA’s chief David Sparkes says, “Swimming is one of the easiest, safest forms of exercise for children and teaches them how to stay safe around water.” Ffi: W: www.swimming.org
HOW EGG-CITING!
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range of entertaining Summer Schools takes place at the egg theatre in Bath this summer. The fun kicks off with the Metta Theatre Company, who will be monkeying around on Tuesday 23 July at their afternoon workshop, involving physical storytelling based on their fantastic show ‘Monkey and Crocodile’. Children aged 8 and over can have a go at juggling, music-making and clowning before putting it all together in a spectacular show to perform at the end of the day. The excitement continues on Monday 29 July–Friday 2 August, when children can grab their rucksacks, pack their binoculars, and go on a week-long ‘Jungle Explorer’ adventure which combines craft and drama in a summer camp setting. Exploring a jungle theme using games, songs and improvisation, children will learn storytelling skills, basic drama techniques and propmaking. Their experiences will be shared with friends and family in a show at the end of the week.
Meanwhile, ‘Beastly Tales’ crawls into the theatre from Monday 5 to Friday 9 August. This spooky summer workshop featuring puppeteer Tessa Bide and musician Holly Stoddard, provides tales full of fun and rhymes for 7 to 9 year olds, exploring Vikram Seth’s book of fascinating fables of the same name. Children will develop their theatrical skills and work together to create a piece of theatre that combines a variety of talents. Ffi: the egg theatre Theatre Royal Bath, Sawclose, Bath, BA1 1ET T: 01225 823 409 or 01225 448844 W: www.theatreroyal.org.uk/ the-egg PRIMARY TIMES
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