i r ma ry ptimes
11 12 1 yrs
2 3 4 yrs
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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With the late onset of spring, many families have been chomping at the bit to get on their bikes and enjoy the region’s cycle paths. Happily, there has never been a better time, as organisations such as Sustrans, plus local councils, work to improve the cyclists’ lot with new facilities and events, such as Big Green Week and Bristol’s Biggest Bike Ride. (See Pages 4 and 6) . As a dad myself, I had no objection when the PT team suggested a Father’s Day feature (P.30). There may be some unsubtle reading hints at home soon. And look out for our essential guide to local festivals (P.33). Have a great half term!
a ry ptriim mes 11 12 1 yrs
2 3 4
yrs
the editor
Jul 2013 24 May-24 Issue 176
Also Father’s Day s ival Family fest ling! Yet more cyc
Bike re to the futu
THEATRE P8 ROUNDABOUT P13 PINBOARD P23 ADVERTISING FEATURES P26 PUPILS’ PAGE P34 CLASSIFIEDS P36 WHEEL PASSION P6
Alex Saunders explores Avon’s cycleways and bike events.
DADDY COOL P30
Make Dad feel special this Father’s Day
SOUNDS OF THE SUMMER P33
You don’t have to travel far to enjoy family festival thrills with this guide to local events.
VIEW THE MAGAZINE ONLINE AT www.venue.co.uk/early-times-primary-times www.primarytimes.net • www.facebook.com - Arty Barty
r, 20 this yea Ride reaches es. Page 4 Biggest Bike their drov As Bristol’s to cycling in families take ey! Save mon ndabout • Barty • Rou Theatre • Arty
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, Ruth Wood 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 Aquarium – kids go free or save £10 with voucher Clearwell Caves – one child free with full paying adult Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm – £2 off admission Westonbirt Treefest – kids go free Flingers Party Shop – 15% off purchases for PT readers (see Pinboard) Barbury International Eventing – two adult tickets for one with code (see Roundabout) Foodies Festival – two tickets for one with discount code (see Roundabout) MAY HALF TERM 2013
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BIGGBRISTOL ’ EST From BIKES Mille SUN nnium Squa RIDE re, B bette DAY 16 rbyb J UNE ristol ike.i nfo/b iker
Bike
ide
to the future
As Bristol’s Biggest Bike Ride turns 20 years old this year, the region’s families take to cycling in their droves.
T
his is a very special year for Bristol’s Biggest Bike Ride as the event celebrates its 20th anniversary on Sunday 16 June. The Bike Ride has grown into one of the largest and most well-loved events in the region’s cycling calendar, attracting families from across the city and beyond. It’s completely free to enter and offers something for all ages, with five different routes to choose from to suit individual levels of cycling ability and experience.
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The Biggest Bike Ride routes all start and finish at Millennium Square in Bristol and this year’s event will see a special send off with a carnival atmosphere and some entrants celebrating 20 years of taking part! This is an ideal opportunity to experience what it’s like to cycle en mass along traffic-free streets in Hotwells and along the Portway, as well as taking dedicated cycle routes out to the surrounding countryside. Families with young children can opt for the easy-pedal Family Fiesta route (9 miles) that runs alongside the Avon Gorge and beneath the iconic Bristol Suspension Bridge. There’s freedom to roam with plenty of space for cycling in groups and places to stop off, should you need a breather. For the more confident and experienced cyclists there are several longer routes; the 14 mile Avon Gorge Loop through Shirehampton; the Sustrans Portishead ride at 24 miles and a test for real cycling enthusiasts known as the Clevedon Challenge - a demanding 38 mile trip. New this year is a special anniversary ride, The Tyntesfield 20: a 20 mile cycle through stunning countryside that includes a section at the beautiful National Trust property, Tyntesfield House. Cyclists arriving at Tyntesfield are entitled to a 20% reduction on admission to the house and in the café and shop. It’s a perfect location to picnic and enjoy the historic surroundings. Bristol’s Biggest Bike Ride is part of Bristol City Council’s programme to encourage people
to enjoy cycling, more safely and more often, whether it’s cycling to school, work or family leisure rides at the weekend. Teams of young cyclists from local schools are gearing up to take part and with cycling increasing in popularity in the city, this could well be a record-breaking year for participants. In the past, the event has attracted 6,000 riders and the organisers have seen a steady rise year on year. To register your family or school for the ride, visit the Better by Bike website. You will find everything you need to know about this year’s event, including maps of the routes, start times and general information. Safety is a watchword for Bristol’s Biggest Bike Ride and the event is well marshalled throughout the day. All types of pedal bikes can be ridden at the Biggest Bike Ride and you will see a whole host of colourful and ingenious machines, flags and brightly decorated trailers. There are bike mechanics on hand at the start to give your bike a last minute check and to assist further along the route. As well as the Biggest Bike Ride, the Festival of Nature also takes place over the same weekend at Harbourside and Millennium Square. Fittingly it, too, will be celebrating its 10th birthday. Cyclists returning at the end of their ride will have the opportunity to visit the festival, the UK’s largest free natural history event, offering wildlife enthusiasts of all ages the opportunity to explore and enjoy the natural world in the heart of the city. The vibrant programme features interactive, hands-on
activities including appearances by the BBC Natural History Unit and Bristol Zoo, plus a marketplace packed with local produce and much more. Visit the Cycling Hub at the Festival to find out more about cycle routes in your area and for advice including how to get back in the saddle, information on types of bike and where to find local bike shops and cycle training courses. It’s a delightful, fun-packed Sunday, which will keep children entertained throughout and mark the start to a great summer of cycling in the city. It has always gone ahead whatever the weather, so don’t forget to dig out your sunscreen, just in case. Bristol’s Biggest Bike Ride Sun 16 Jun. W: www.betterbybike.info/ bikeride
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The whole park is now open!
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Cycling has never been more popular with the opening of exciting new facilities and summer events aplenty. Alex Saunders gears up for a pedal-powered season.
WHEEL PASSION P
ushing off on two wheels can be a daunting prospect for any child facing a bicycle for the first time. Minor tumbles and wrong-turns await those that hop on but, once balance and control are acquired, cycling becomes a fun and flexible way of getting from A to B. For parents, a child’s discovery of cycling unlocks a range of recreational activities that can really bring the family together. This summer, the Avon region will be humming with the whirl of wheels as local people explore the region’s cycle paths. Launching a child’s cycling career early on helps them achieve a number of goals, not least the recommended 60 minutes of physical activity per day for a child. It also livens up journeys around town or into school: children get to know their local area more intimately. The benefits don’t stop there: teachers often comment that children who cycle to school are more attentive in lessons. “The average primary school journey is just 1.5 miles – the perfect distance to walk or cycle,” says Malcolm Shepherd, chief executive of Sustrans, a UK charity that promotes sustainable transport. “Evidence shows how children who cycle to school regularly are more active and better learners - it’s time for us all to get on our bikes!” One of Sustrans’ biggest successes is the development of the
TOP TIPS
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Balance bikes and training wheels are a great way to start your child on two wheels. Ensure the bike is roadworthy, that they wear high-visibility clothing and a well-fitting helmet. Sit down with the kids and mark out a safe route from home to school for morning runs. Make cycling a family activity, for example, by combining it with a countryside picnic.
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National Cycle Network, which now consists of over 14,000 miles of walking and cycling routes throughout the UK, used by thousands of cyclists every day. “The network demonstrates that big increases in walking and cycling are possible and that people will choose to get about by bike if it’s safe and pleasant enough,” says Martyn Brunt, NCN development manager at Sustrans. Safety is a key concern for parents reluctant to allow their
children on the roads, an issue addressed by Bristol Council’s ‘Bikeability’ programme. This 21st century cycling proficiency test aims to teach young cyclists how to travel safely on two wheels. A three-step programme offers increasingly advanced training scenarios, and the scheme is available in the majority of the region’s schools. “Bikeability gives children the skills and confidence they need to cycle safely,” says Emma Downey, manager of the area’s Bikeability scheme. “They can be independent while having lots of fun.” Once your little one has learnt the skills necessary to head out onto the roads, what facilities and events are on offer? Perhaps most spectacular is Bristol’s Biggest Bike Ride on Sun 16 Jun, part of Bristol’s Big Green Week: see our full page feature on Page 4. From 10-14 June, Bristol takes part in the Sustrans-led ‘Bike to School’ week, while the city runs a parallel programme, ‘Active Travel to School Week’. “We’ll be encouraging children to travel sustainably,” says Downey. “They’ll have diaries and stickers to record how they’ve come to school.”
A new facility for cyclists, the renovated Combe Down railway tunnel near Bath opened this April as part of the Sustrans Two Tunnels Greenway project. This purpose-built cycling tunnel is the longest in the UK. “The Two Tunnels Greenway is a great example of how disused railway lines can be revived as vital transport links,” Shepherd explains “It will connect local communities and help people be more active as they get around.” With 1,600 people cycling through the tunnel in its first hour, the new route has proved immensely popular and is expected to attract hundreds of thousands of cyclists and walkers in its first year. Plenty of other cycling events take place across Avon this summer (see Roundabout section), so pump up the tyres, ring the bell and set off down the road to healthy living. Better by Bike W: www.betterbybike.info Sustrans W: www.sustrans.org.uk Bikeability W: www.dft.gov.uk/ bikeability Life Cycle UK T: 0117 353 4580 W: www.lifecycleuk.org.uk
EVENTS 2 Jun Castle Combe Cycling Festival 10-14 Jun Bike To School Week 22-23 Jun Bike Bath 13-21 Jul Bristol Cycle Festival (See Roundabout for full details)
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FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SHOWS ★ BRISTOL, BATH, SOMERSET & SOUTH GLOS Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Tue 25–Sat 29 Jun. Various times and matinee performances, £10-£29.50 • Ian ‘H’ Watkins of former teen band Steps stars in this retelling of the biblical story of Joseph, his 11 brothers and the coat of many colours. Dora the Explorer Fri 26 Jul-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.
BATH BATH CITY FARM Kelston View, BA2 1NW. Monkey and Crocodile Sat 20Sun 21 Jul. 11am and 3pm. £5 or £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). THE EGG Theatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath BA1 1ET. 01225 448844, www.theatreroyal.org.uk Swallows & Amazons Thu 23-Sat 25 May. 7pm (& 2pm Sat). £7.50/£6.50 • Graduates from Bath Spa University of Performing Arts present this classic tale of camping, sailing and crafty piracy. Ages 5+ Each Peach Pear Plum Tue 28-Wed 29 May. 11.30am and 3pm. £7.50/£6.50 • Adapted from the book by Janet and Allan Ahlberg, this playful show is a game of ‘I Spy’ for the whole family set in a lovely green meadow. Ages 3+ Graffiti Classics Sat 1 Jun. 11.30am and 3pm. £7.50/£6.50 • This contemporary classical concert incorporates a gypsy-folk romp, opera, stand-up comedy and elaborate dance show in a cauldron of creativity that will entertain the whole family. Ages 2+ Aston’s Stones Thu 6–Sat 8 Jun. 10.30am & 1pm (Thu and Fri). 11.30am & 3pm (Sat). £7.50/£6.50
At the egg, Bath, 1-2 Feb The eyes have it: Lionboy at Bristol Old Vic, 29 May-1 Jun
• This funky story is told using live music to narrate the charming tale of Aston, the little dog who loves collecting stones. Ages 3+ Spot Fri 14-Sat 15 Jun. 10.30am & 1pm (Fri), 11.30am & 3pm (Sat). £7.50/£6.50 • Spot is a special stage light which shines shapes and colours on the floor. Freddy Dare & The Ginger Robber Fri 21-Sat 22 Jun. 10.30am & 1pm (Fri), 11.30am & 3pm (Sat). £7.50/£6.50 • Cube theatre provides an epic adventure through striking visual effects, soaring music, curious props and an emotionally charged script. After Fred loses his dad, he joins with a fellow superhero and descends into a world of imagination. Portofino Ballad Fri 12-Sat 13 Jul. 10.30am & 1pm (Fri), 11.30am & 3pm (Sat). £7.50/£6.50 • A thought-provoking story of family and freedom. Fireside Tales with Granddad Sat 20 Jul. 11.30am & 3pm. £7.50/£6.50 • Visually stunning puppets and lucid soundscapes are combined with impressive puppetry to create the magic of a fireside setting for everyone’s favourite Granddad.
BRISTOL
The Pirates of Penzance, Bristol Hippodrome, 18-22 Jun. 8 MAY HALF TERM 2013
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THE BLAKEHAY THEATRE Wadham Street, Weston-superMare, North Somerset BS23 1JZ. 01934 645493, www.westonsuper-maretowncouncil.gov.uk Little Red Riding Hood Sat 18 May. 11am and 1.30pm. £7 • Soap Soup Theatre introduce Ethan and Sam as they get ready for bed, with a not so sweet bedtime story of a girl with an attitude, a wolf with appetite and a larger than life woodcutter with an axe and a very real fear of wolves. Jack at the Beanstalk Café Sat 25 May. 11am-1.30pm. £7 • Blending shadows, puppets and live music, the innovative Hand to
Mouth theatre present two tales with a coffee bean aroma that will suit children aged 4-8. THE BREWERY THEATRE 291 North Street, Southville, Bristol, BS3 1JP. 0117 902 0344, www.tobaccofactorytheatre.com Napoleon: A Defence Tue 28 May–Sat 1 Jun. 7.15pm. Sat 2.15pm. £11 • This comedy features live music, physical theatre, clowning around, ships and cannon balls that will blast you into an imaginative history. Suitable for children. THE BRISTOL HIPPODROME Saint Augustine’s Parade, Bristol BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012, www. bristolhippodrome.org.uk Ben and Holly’s little kingdom Wed 15-Thu 16 May. 1pm & 4pm (Wed), 1pm & 4.30pm (Thu), £12.50, £14.50, £16.50 • The makers of Peppa Pig bring this television animation to the stage for the first time. Holly is a fairy princess, still learning how to fly and her magic doesn’t always go to plan whereas Ben the Elf can only fly on Gaston the Beetle. Have fun as they explore The Big World in this enchanting tale of jelly floods and adventure. Three Phantoms Tue 4-Wed 5 Jun. 7.30pm, £22-£33 • Musical theatre lovers (especially Phantom of the Opera ‘Phans’) are in for a treat with these backstage insights and anecdotes from three of the West End’s bestknown phantoms, Earl Carpenter, Matthew Cammelle and Stephen John Davis. The trio also sing pieces from other adaptations of the story that inspired Andrew Lloyd Webber to write his famous score. The Pirates of Penzance Tue 18-Sat 22 Jun. 7.30 pm (& 2.30pm Wed & Sat). £15-£47.50 • Classic Gilbert and Sullivan welcomes the D’Oyly Carte Opera Company back to the stage after 10 years for this swashbuckling show.
THE BRISTOL OLD VIC King Street, BS1 4ED. 0117 987 7877, www.bristololdvic.org.uk The Curious Scrapbook of Josephine Bean Tue 28 MaySat 1 Jun. 11am & 2.30pm. £8 • Delve into the pages of Josephine Bean’s scrapbook and discover the secrets within. Recommended for ages 7+ Lionboy Wed 29 May-Sat 1 Jun. 7pm (& 2pm Sat). £8-£28 (all tickets £10 on Wed 29 May) • The award-winning Complicité Theatre Company brings its first show for families and young people to Bristol. Charlie Ashanti can speak to cats and when his parents are kidnapped, he sets off on a rescue mission helped by a pride of performing lions. The Watery Journey of Nereus Pike Tue 28 May–Sat 1 Jun. 8pm. £12/£8. • Nereus Pike is floating down from the sunshine to the bottom of the sea. He’s not unhappy about this, in fact, he’s smiling. This is a new show by Fringe First Award-winning comedian and theatre-maker Laura Mugridge, in collaboration with Katy Schutte and Tom Adams. 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 famous theatre, the creative team behind ‘Treasure Island’ and ‘Peter Pan’ unfold a sparkling version of the famous storytelling slave’s parable, adapted by Michael Morpurgo. THE COLSTON HALL Colston Hall, Colston Street, Bristol BS1 5AR. 0117 922 3686, www.colstonhall.org Nigel Kennedy presents Bach plus Fats Waller Fri 3 May. 7.30pm, £39.50 (Balcony), £34.50 (Stalls) • World-famous violinist, Nigel Kennedy, presents a typically maverick programme celebrating the music of Bach and Fats Waller. He is joined on stage by an acoustic guitarist, a drummer and a double bass player. » PRIMARY TIMES
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PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES!
Nobody Rides the Unicorn, Salisbury Playhouse, Sat 8 Jun. Part of the Salisbury International Arts Festival
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Chilled Out Classics Fri 10 May. 7.30pm, £14-£25 (under 26s £8 & under 18s £1) • Described as a musical spa treatment for the soul, this selection of relaxed classics will calm even the most stressed audience. 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. OLYMPUS THEATRE Filton College Wise Campus, New Road, Bristol, BS34 8LP. 0117 956 7463, Annie Wed 26-Sat 29 Jun. 7.30pm (matinee 2.30pm Sat). £10/£8.00 • A fantastic production from Minis Theatre Club, children from 9 to 14 years old. Enjoy the famous ‘Tomorrow’, ‘Hard-Knock Life’ and many more. It’s a feel good show! 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. Romeo and Juliet Sat 2 & Sat 9 Feb. 10.30am. £7 • Bristol Old Vic Theatre School has specially adapted this production for younger audiences: a perfect introduction to the fateful tale of Romeo and Juliet. Suitable for Key Stage 2, suggested ages 7-13 years. 0117 973 3955. ST GEORGE’S BRISTOL Great George Street, Bristol BS1 5RR. 0845 402 4001, www. stgeorgesbristol.co.uk Wild Words: Traditional Tales with a TWIST! Tue 4 Jun. 7pm. £8 (adult)/£6 (under 18s) • Two storytellers and two musicians serve up a three-course meal of words, sounds, movements, grooves and plenty of rhythm and rhyme. Breathing new life into ancient tales, the interactive show encourages playful imagination. For ages 10+. Stringfever for Juniors Sun 9 Jun. 1.30pm. £8 (adult)/£6 (under 18s) • A family quartet of brothers and cousins give popular classics the Stringfever treatment accompanied by plenty of humour and impressive musicianship. Ages 6+ Benjamin Britten’s Little Sweep Mon 17 Jun. 6.30pm. £9 (adult)/£5 10 MAY HALF TERM 2013
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(under 18s) • This opera for children follows the story of Sam the sweep who is rescued by the children of the manor in which he works. 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 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.
FURTHER AFIELD Productions marked (SIAF) are part of Salisbury International Arts Festival www.salisburyfestival.co.uk THE BACON THEATRE Dean Close School, Shelbourne Road, Cheltenham GL51 6HE. 01242 258002, www.bacontheatre. co.uk Romeo & Juliet Wed 17 Jul. 7.30pm. £13 • Shakespeare’s timeless classic is given a reworking by the nationally respected Heartbreak production group. This event is part of the open-air festival in the Tuckwell Amphitheatre. 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, the Blunderbus style perfectly suits the great outdoors, with an irresistible blend of music, puppetry and lashings of audience participation.
EVERYMAN THEATRE Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573, www.everymantheatre.org.uk Beauty and the Beast Tue 28 May-Sat 1 Jun. 2pm and 7pm. £13£17 • A handsome, but arrogant prince is turned into a monstrous beast by an enchantress who sees no love in his heart. The only way he can break the spell is to learn to love another - and earn her love in return - before the last petal from an enchanted rose withers and falls. The Hound of the Baskervilles Wed 19 Jun-Sat 22 Jun. 7.45pm. £10.50/£9 • Conan Doyle’s classic tale of a murderous hound is given a new bark by Jenny Wren Productions. SALISBURY ARTS CENTRE Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin Street, Salisbury, SP1 3UT. 01722 321744, wwwsalisburyartscentre. co.uk Jeremy Strong – My Brother’s Famous Bottom Mon 27 May. 2.30pm. From £6.75 • Puffin’s King of Comedy introduces his latest book from the popular series. (SIAF) Bath Philharmonia and Young Carers - Listen To Us Thu 30 May. 6pm. From £1 • Young carers from the Wiltshire region come together to sing and dance in collaboration with the Bath Philharmonia. (SIAF) The Wimpy Kid Show Fri 31 May. 2.30pm. From £6.30 • Host Alastair brings the popular ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid’ books to life with fun activities and a quiz. (SIAF) Sammy’s Great Escape Sat 29 Jun. 11am-12.30pm. £4 • Follow turtle friends Sammy and Ray in their latest adventure when they are captured by poachers and shipped off to become part of an aquarium show. My Brother The Robot Sun 30 Jun. 11.30am-12.20pm. £7.50, £6.50 (concession) • This new show from the company that brought you ‘The Snail and the Whale’ combines futuristic humour, music and toddler friendly storytelling. Slapdash Galaxy Sun 7 Jul. 1pm2pm. £7.50, £6.50 concessions, £24 (family of four) • An intergalactic shadow puppet adventure for children aged 7+ which follows the epic tale of Sam and Junior as they flee their war torn planet and embark on a journey across the galaxy. SALISBURY PLAYHOUSE Malthouse Lane, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP2 7RA. 01722 320333, www.salisburyplayhouse.com Rumpelstiltskin – Hiccup Theatre Sun 26 May. 12pm and 2.30pm, from £5.85 • Suitable for 3-7 year olds, the classic fairy tale is given a refreshing make over by Hiccup Theatre. Mixing live music, puppetry and story-telling to narrate the sneaky escapades of one sneaky trickster. (SIAF) Pep Bou – Rebufaplanetes Mon 27 May. 7.30pm. From £10 • Incorporating theatrical showmanship with technical precision,
catch the Catalan mime artist perform his unique show that has been entertaining audiences around the world since 1982. (SIAF) Eva Katzler – Florentine and Pig Tue 28 May. 12pm. From £4.50 • Meet the author of Florentine and Pig as she discusses themes of friendship, frolics and food that appear within her imaginative story. Suitable for ages 3-7 (SIAF) Knick Knack and Doo Dad – Lyngo Theatre Sat 1 Jun. 12.30pm and 3pm. From £5.85 • Knick Knack lives on a big, smelly rubbish island and has been there so long he’s forgotten how to smile. This interactive show encourages audience members to transform trash into amazing new toys to promote recycling. (SIAF) London Sinfonietta – At The World’s Edge Mon 3 Jun. 7pm. From £7.50 • Suitable for ages 8+ this imaginative show uses puppetry, music, spoken text and song to tell the story of Greek goddess Persephone, Zeus’s daughter, who’s abducted to the underworld. (SIAF) Spot – La Baracca Wed 5 Jun. 11.30am. From £5.40 • The international theatre company’s latest show explores children’s fascination with light by drawing shapes and colours on the stage floor. (SIAF) Nobody Rides The Unicorn – Puppetcraft Sat 8 Jun. 11.30am and 4.30pm. From £5.85 • Perfect for children aged 4 and over, this puppet show based on the book by Adrian Mitchell follows the plight of Zoe and her new found magical friend. (SIAF) SWINDON ARTS CENTRE Devizes Road, Old Town, Swindon, SN1 4BJ. 01793 614837, www. swindon.gov.uk/artscentre Wind in the Willows Wed 29 May. 2pm. £8 (adult)/£6 (child)/£25 (family) • Kenneth Grahame’s famous tales of the river bank are brought to life in this vibrant musical production by the Image Musical Theatre. 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+ THE WYVERN THEATRE Theatre Square, Swindon, Wiltshire SN1 1QN. 01793 524481, www.wyverntheatre.org.uk. Grandpa in my Pocket Thu 6 Jun-Sun 9 Jun. 6.30pm (Thu) 10.30am and 6.30pm (Fri), 10.30am and 1.30pm (Sat). 10.30am and 1.30pm (Sun). £15 (adult)/£13 (child) • Sunnysands Pirate, Horatio Heave Ho takes Jason and Jemima on an adventure but when things go wrong, it’s time for Grandpa to put on his shrinking cap. Isambard Summer Show: Little Shop of Horrors Tue 16-Wed 17 Jul. 7.30pm. £7.50/£5 • Isambard Community School presents its latest production of this satirical musical based on the 1980s film. PRIMARY TIMES
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Children’s Specialist Shoe Shop Now Open
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A PASSION FOR THE SEA
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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 August and September 2013: deadline Mon 17 June. 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!
MAY ONGOING EXPLORE YOUR UNIVERSE FAMILY SHOW At-Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www.at-bristol. org.uk • Discover more about our universe, explore the world of atoms and particle accelerators and find out just how light and electricity work. 8+ ONGOING MINI MOVERS AND GROOVERS Uphill Village Hall, Waycott, 96 Uphill Way, Uphill, Weston-superMare, North Somerset, BS23 4XP. 07973 839453, www.fit-com. co.uk, 10.30am-11.30am, first class free then £17.50 for five week course • A fun class where children can play, exercise, make
music and meet new friends. Refreshments provided. For ages 18 months-3 years.
meets every Tuesday to offer support for parents of children with additional or challenging needs.
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.
UNTIL MON 27 MAY EAT DRINK BRISTOL FASHION Queen Square, Bristol, BS1. www. eatdrinkevents.co.uk, see website for prices • For two weeks Queen Square will host a ‘tipi village’ that will house a fine dining restaurant for 100 people, a tapas café for 200 people, fully licensed bars, a live performance stage and an exhibition space.
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. 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. ONGOING EVENING PARENT’S SUPPORT GROUP Clevedon YMCA, Marson Road, Clevedon, BS21 7NN. 01275 878405, lorna.ymca@gmail.com, 7.30pm, free • This weekly group
Bristol’s Park Street becomes a children’s playground on Sun 23 Jun as part of Big Green Week (15-23 June)
UNTIL SAT 15 JUN EDWARD JENNER SCHOOL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY MORNINGS Edward Jenner School, 4 Pitt Street, Gloucester, GL1 2BH. 10am-12noon • Enjoy science and technology activities every Wednesday and Saturday morning and register for the school’s launch event. Free refreshments. UNTIL SUN 30 JUN ADAM HENSON’S SHEARING DEMONSTRATIONS Cotswold Farm Park, Guiting Power, nr. Cheltenham, Glos. GL54 5UG, www.cotswoldfarmpark. co.uk, see website for times and prices • Find out how your woolly jumper starts its life and don’t forget to visit the farm park’s conservation area, complete with wormery and bee-hive, to discover the importance of wildlife in our landscape. UNTIL SUN 7 JUL KITCHEN CHEMISTRY At-Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www.at-bristol. org.uk, regular daily shows, free with standard admission, drop in sessions throughout the day • This culinary show investigates the chemistry behind flavour. Plus fun experiments that will tickle the taste buds! UNTIL SUN 21 JUL PHARAOH: KING OF EGYPT Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, Queens Road, Bristol, BS8 1RL. 0117 922 3571, www.bristol.gov.uk/ museums, 10am-5pm, £5 (adults), £4 (concessions), £3 (children 5-16), free (under 5s) • This exhibition presents the extravagance and opulence of the ancient kings and queens of Egypt. Discover life-size statues, stone reliefs and intricate jewellery that explore the challenges of ruling this dynamic and unique civilisation. UNTIL SUN 3 NOV MILKING DEMONSTRATIONS Cotswold Farm Park, Guiting Power, nr. Cheltenham, Glos. GL54 5UG, see website for times and prices • Discover where your
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cereal milk comes from and don’t forget to visit the farm park’s conservation area, complete with wormery and bee-hive, to discover the importance of wildlife in our landscape. UNTIL 31 DEC FIFTY FABULOUS FROCKS EXHIBITION Fashion Museum, Assembly Rooms, Bennett Street, Bath, BA1 2QH. 01225 477789, www.fashionmuseum.co.uk, open 10.30am4pm through Feb, 10.30am-5pm from Mar-Oct, admission charges apply • A classic collection of fashion throughout the ages, including iconic names in 20th century fashion such as Christian Dior and Yves Saint Laurent to the most desired brands of now like Burberry and Erdem. SAT 18 MAY OPEN MORNING Rose Hill Westonbirt School, Tetbury, Gloucestershire, GL8 8QG. 01666 880333, www. westonbirt.gloucs.sch.uk, 9.30am12.30pm • Aimed at parents of children making the move into Year 3, parents can use this morning to talk about their child’s future with this independent day school. FRI 24 MAY PARTY IN THE CITY Various Bath Venues. 01225 462231, www.bathfestivals.org. uk, 5.30pm-10.30pm, free • As part of the Bath International Music Festival this large free show returns when the city invites 100 local music acts to perform in venues all over town. The evening opens with a colourful parade through the city centre comprised of dancers and musicians. FRI 24 MAY A LITTLE BOOK OF MONSTERS Bath Abbey, 12 Kingston Buildings, Bath, BA1 1LT. 01225 422462, www.bathabbey.org, 6pm, free » MAY HALF TERM 2013
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ROUNDABOUT Longwell Green Scouts need help The 46th Kingswood (First Longwell Green) Scout Group is looking for volunteers to help run its Beavers section, which meets every Thursday evening at the Longwell Green Community Centre, Bristol. The group tells Primary Times that if it can’t find the right people to help, it faces closure. If you’re interested, contact Katie McCavana on 0117 960 1862. »
• Award-winning composer Stephen Deazley and wordsmith Matt Harvey host the Love Music Ensemble backed by a choir of local primary school children. Extraordinary monsters populate a range of ghoulish songs that will delight and entertain. FRI 24-MON 27 MAY GLOUCESTER TALL SHIPS 2013 The Docks, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL1 2ER. 01452 396572, www.thecityofgloucester. co.uk/tallships, free • Over the Spring Bank Holiday a fleet of ships dock in the city’s Victorian Docks. Aside from the impressive vessels, living history characters and swashbuckling pirates entertain while live music, arts, crafts, food stalls and kids’ activities line the water. FRI 24 MAY-SAT 8 JUN AGEAS SALISBURY INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL (SIAF) Various venues around Salisbury. 0845 241 9651, www.salisburyfestival.co.uk • Salisbury’s largest international arts festival returns for another year offering a wide range of events throughout the
city. Festival events listed below are marked (SIAF). SAT 25 MAY CURZON KIDS FILM CLUB: BUGSY MALONE Curzon Community Cinema, 46-48 Old Church Road, Clevedon, North Somerset. 01275 879115, www.curzon.org.uk, 10am, £3.50, advance booking 01275 871000 or online • Get along in costume to this sing-along version of the 1929 New York-set gangster comedy musical with an all child cast. SAT 25 MAY CLOSE ENCOUNTERS (SIAF) 6 The Close, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP1 2EJ. 0845 241 9651, www. salisburyfestival.co.uk, 2pm, free • A full day of entertainment beginning with festival favourite, the Playday, and ending with fireworks. SAT 25 MAY STORIES AT NIGHT: WHISPERS FROM THE MILK WOOD Tyntesfield, Wraxall, North Somerset, BS48 1NX. 01275 461900, www.nationaltrust.org. uk/tyntesfield, 6pm-8pm, £10, booking essential 0844 249 1895 • A magical evening of stories, songs and sounds courtesy of ‘In the Milkwood’ and Martin Maudsley. SAT 25 MAY WE ARE FAMILY Arnolfini, 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol, BS1 4QA. 0117 917 2300, www. arnolfini.org.uk, 1pm, free • Join the learning team and explore the exhibitions through exciting and engaging activities for families to do together. (Takes place on last Saturday of every month.) SAT 25 MAY WARDEN ACTIVITIES Old Down Country Park, Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol, BS32 4PG. 01454 414081, www.old-
PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES! downcountrypark.co.uk, 11.30am and 2pm, free with park entry • Make a bird feeder in Animal Encounters (11.30am). Nature Bingo Meet at the sandpit by the shop (2pm). SAT 25-SUN 26 MAY MAIURTA – LOS GALINDOS (SIAF) 6 The Close, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP1 2EJ. 0845 241 9651, www. salisburyfestival.co.uk, Sat 2.30pm & 4.30pm, Sun 12.30pm, from £9, book online • This intriguing Catalan circus act uses flour and dough to weave a magical tale from an amnesiac clown’s memories. SAT 25-MON 27 MAY BRISTOL HARBOUR RAILWAY TRAIN RIDES M Shed Dockside, Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol, BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.mshed.org, 11am-5pm trips every 40 mins, £4 (all day rover)/£1/£2 (single/ return)/free (under 6s) • Be transported back to the days of steam and take a ride along the harbour on one of M Shed’s biggest exhibits, Henbury Steam Locomotive. SAT 25–MON 27 MAY UPFEST The Tobacco Factory, Raleigh Road, Bristol, BS3 1TF and North Street, Bedminster, BS3. www. upfest.co.uk, free • Two hundred local and international street artists descend upon South Bristol to show off their skills during the May Bank Holiday. Now in its sixth year, this urban art festival is based at the Tobacco Factory where graffiti workshops encourage families to pick up spray cans and get creative! SAT 25 MAY–SUN 2 JUN DOWNY DUCKLING DAYS Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, GL2 7BT. 01453 891900, www.wwt.org.uk/visit/
Downy Duckling Days, Slimbridge, 25 May - 2 Jun
slimbridge, 9.30am-5pm, free with normal admission prices • A chance to go behind-thescenes at the Duckery to learn how Slimbridge rears thousands of young birds each year. Learn about eggs, incubation and hatching. Downy Duckling tours run through the week. SUN 26 MAY WOODLAND BUSHCRAFT Old Down Country Park, Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol, BS32 4PG. 01454 414081, www.olddowncountrypark.co.uk, 1pm, free with park entry • Taster session in the woods, a free drop-in event in conjunction with ‘Schools in the Forest.’ MON 27 MAY TEDDY BEAR’S PICNIC Old Down Country Park, Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol, BS32 4PG. 01454 414081, www.olddowncountrypark.co.uk, 1pm4pm, admission charges apply • Take teddy bears and blankets to reserve your place on the Manor House Lawns and enjoy a picnic. Storytelling, games and a treasure hunt will keep the children happy. »
Flagging up Gloucester Tall Ships, 24-27 May 14
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Join the Big Stroll South West, Sat 15 Jun
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MON 27 MAY LET THE GAMES BEGIN! M Shed Dockside, Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol, BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.mshed. org, 10am-5pm • Pretend to be a Victorian child and try your hand at historic board and card games. From Jack in his Box to Jacob’s Ladder – a chance for visitors of all ages to play with toys from generations past. Suitable for 5+ MON 27-FRI 31 MAY BRILLIANT BEASTS Roman Baths, Abbey Church Yard, Bath, BA1 1LZ. 01225 477785, www.romanbaths.co.uk, 10am & 2pm • Drop in sessions available where you can use animals found in the Roman Baths collection to make a beastly fridge magnet. MON 27 MAY-SAT 1 JUN VIP ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Clevedon Road, Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1PG. www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk, 10.30am-5pm, extra charge and encounter times apply • Spend 15 minutes with an owl, giraffe, tapir, big cat or a meerkat. The short encounters will involve meeting, feeding and interacting with the animals in small groups of three. TUE 28 MAY MODELLING CHOCOLATE! M Shed Dockside, Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol, BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.mshed. org, £3 per child (suitable for ages 5+), 11am & 2pm • Join artist Marie Toseland in this family workshop to make your own edible sculpture. Use images and music as inspiration and learn the techniques of sculpting with chocolate clay. WED 29 MAY ANCIENT EGYPT DISCOVERY DAY Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, Queens Road, Bristol, BS8 1RL. 0117 922 3571, www.bristol.gov. uk/page/leisure-and-culture/ bristol-museum-and-art-gallery, 11am-3pm, free • Get your hands on real Egyptian objects and take part in Egyptian-themed activities. WED 29 MAY BABE THE SHEEP PIG – ILLYRIA (SIAF) The Wardrobe Museum Gardens, 58 The Close, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP1 2EX. 01722 419419, www. thewardrobe.org.uk, 3.30pm. From £7.50 • The Illyria theatre company brings Dick-King 16
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PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES!
Smith’s delightful tale about the adventurous pig to a unique garden setting.
Pyronaut served in Bristol from 1934 until 1973, working particularly hard in the Blitz in 1940-41.
WED 29 MAY WEAVING WORKSHOPS Yate Heritage Centre, Church Road, Yate, Bristol, BS37 5BG. 01454 862200, www.yateheritage.co.uk, 10.30am & 2pm, free but donations welcome, booking essential • Learn about the ancient art of weaving and create your own woven object in this unusual and wonderful workshop.
SAT 1 JUN-SUN 2 JUN WW2 WEEKEND: DIG FOR VICTORY Tyntesfield, Wraxall, North Somerset, BS48 1NX. 01275 461900, www.nationaltrust.org. uk/tyntesfield, 10am-4pm, admission charges apply • Turn up in 1940s outfits and step back in time to soak up some history, complete with military vehicles, costumed re-enactors and plenty of music and dancing. Family walks available.
THU 30 MAY CASTLE COMBE SUMMER SERIES 5 Castle Combe Cycling Festival & Severn Bridge Sportive, Castle Combe Circuit, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN14 7EY, 01249 782417, www.castlecombecyclingfestival. co.uk • A range of competitive youth cycling events will be taking place in the evening. THU 30 MAY MOSAIC WORKSHOPS Yate Heritage Centre, Church Road, Yate, Bristol, BS37 5BG. 01454 862200, www.yateheritage.co.uk, 10.30am & 2pm, free but donations welcome, booking essential • Make your own animal designs using pieces of mosaic in our fun workshop. FRI 31 MAY-SUN 2 JUN WYCHWOOD FESTIVAL Cheltenham Racecourse, Prestbury Park, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 4SH. www. wychwoodfestival.com, see website for opening hours and ticket prices • This year is the ninth annual Wychwood Festival, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and the big range of music on offer, plus loads of other activities including 100 workshops for all ages, comedy, cinema and much more.
JUNE SAT 1 JUN WILD GIRL Leigh Woods, Bristol, BS8 3PZ. Park on North Road and follow signs. 08442 491895, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/leigh-woods, 2pm (60 mins), £8 (adult)/£6 (child)/£30 (family of five), booking essential via website or telephone • This woodland play narrates the journey of a wild girl as she emerges from the forest. Will she be able to live her life in nature or be forced to conform to modern day society? SAT 1-SUN 2 JUN TRIP ABOARD THE FIRE BOAT PYRONAUT M Shed Dockside, Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol, BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.mshed.org, £5 (adult)/£3 (child/concession), 12pm-5pm trips last 30 mins • Watch the powerful water cannon at work on Bristol’s former fire boat, during a trip around the docks that she was built to protect.
SUN 2 JUN MERCURY MENDIP CHALLENGE Starts at Westhaven School, Ellesmere Road, Weston-SuperMare, BS23 4UT. 01934 423900, www.westonhospicecaregroup. org.uk/events, 7am, £7.50 (adult)/£5 (child) • Choose from four different walking routes, including the five mile fun walk where fancy dress is not only encouraged but a prize is given for the best costume, and families are welcome. Raise money for Weston Hospicecare by getting sponsored, and enjoy a tasty BBQ and music in Uphill once you finish the walk. TUE 4 JUN HISTORICAL WALK: EXPLORE THE FLOATING HARBOUR M Shed Dockside, Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol, BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.mshed.org, 10.30am, £2 suggested donation, book in advance by telephone • Join expert guides as they take you on a trip into Bristol’s old docklands, pointing out its maritime heritage and supplementing the tour with a wealth of interesting photographs and maps. SAT 8 JUN BIG GREEN WEEK: GET GROWING GARDEN TRAIL Various garden sites around Bristol. www.bristolfoodnetwork. org, 10am-5pm, free • Over 20 sites around Bristol are open to the public, revealing gardening tips and advice. SAT 8 JUN CAR BOOT SALE Charborough Road Primary School, Charborough Road, Filton, Bristol, BS34 7RA. 10am1pm, £6 per car/£8 per van, 10p (adult)/free (child) • Strictly no admittance to buyers before 10am, sellers access from 9am. No electrical goods. No smoking or pets on school grounds. Refreshments available.
SAT 8-SUN 9 JUN HIGH FLYERS AT WESTON The Beach, Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, BS23 1AA. 0117 977 2002, www.kite-festival.org.uk, all day, free • Invited guest flyers will join with local kite group Avon Kite Flyers in staging aerial displays on the beach throughout the weekend. Spectators will be able to enjoy colourful kites of all shapes and sizes with giant 3D creatures, awesome power kites and synchronised team routines flown to music. SUN 14 JUN DINO-TOUR CYCLE TREASURE HUNT Bristol and Bath railway path. www.cyclewest.co.uk, 01454 863640, 10am-4pm • Families will track dinosaur-related clues along the route with a chance of winning one of a number of prizes. FRI 14 JUN & FRI 26 JUL SUNSET SPECIALS AT BRISTOL ZOO 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. SAT 15 JUN HENLEAZE SCHOOL MAYFAIR 2013 Park Grove, Henleaze, Bristol. 2pm, £1 (adult)/ free (pre-school child) • Henleaze and Claremont School’s annual Mayfair event is packed with lots of entertainment for the whole family: Maypole dancing, children’s fairground rides, bouncy castle and slide, books, white elephant, BBQ, hog roast, live music and more. SAT 15 JUN & SAT 13 JUL CAR BOOT SALE Abbeywood Community School, New Road, Stoke Gifford, BS34 8SF. 9.30am, seller access from 8.30am, no need to book
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Youngsters take the Mercury Mendip Challenge, Sun 2 Jun
SAT 8 JUN WILDLIFE DAY Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Clevedon Road, Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1PG. www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk, 10.30am, £13 (adult)/£9.50 (child)/£41 (family) • Learn more about local wildlife and see how you can get involved in local conservation projects. PRIMARY TIMES
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PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES! Father’s Day at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Sat 15 Jun
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• Browse the numerous stalls. Entry is by donation and no dogs allowed. There will be toilets and refreshments available on site. SAT 15 JUN BIG STROLL SOUTH WEST Avon Valley, Bristol and Bath. 0117 303 3347, www.meningitisUK.org, registration at 8am to start at 9am, charity fundraising • Fight meningitis and get some exercise with this nine mile walk, starting at the Lock Keeper pub, Keynsham, and passing by some of Bristol’s most alluring landmarks to its conclusion at the Kings Arms pub in Clifton. SAT 15 JUN BIG GREEN WEEK: SOUTHVILLE CENTRE’S GREEN DAY The Southville Centre, Beauley Road, Bristol, BS3 1QG. 0117 942 2398, www.southvillecentre. org.uk and www.biggreenweek. com, 10am-3pm, free • A day of eco-celebration family activities. Scrapstore will be getting creative with waste materials plus talks from ethical bankers ‘Triodos’ and ‘Bristol Pound’ and a herbal walk through the city courtesy of ‘Urban Fringe’. SAT 15 JUN FATHER’S DAY Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Clevedon Road, Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1PG. www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk, 10.30am-5pm, fathers go for £5 • Take your father, grandfather or stepfather to enjoy the zoo farm at a discounted rate for this special day. Download the voucher from the events page on the website. SAT 15-SUN 16 JUN BIG GREEN WEEK: BRISTOL FESTIVAL OF NATURE Bristol Harbourside, BS1 5LL. 0117 317 8751, www.bnhc.org. uk and www.biggreenweek. com, 10am-5pm, free • Bringing together 150 organisations, this claims to be the UK’s largest free natural history event, giving wildlife enthusiasts of all ages the chance to explore the natural world through hands-on activities and live entertainment.
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ROUNDABOUT www.bristolforestschool.co.uk & www.biggreenweek.com, 1pm4pm, £8 (adult)/£5 (child)/free (dads), booking essential: email sophie@bristolforestschool.co.uk • Enjoy this year’s Father’s Day by exploring nature at this woodland adventure day.
SAT 15-SUN 16 JUN BIG GREEN WEEK: FESTIVAL OF NATURE BOAT TOUR Arnolfini, 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol, BS1 4QA. 0117 917 2300, www.arnolfini.org.uk, 11.30am & 5.30pm, free, book online • Celebrate Europe’s biggest natural history festival by taking a boat ride around Bristol. SUN 16 JUNE FIRST CHEW VALLEY 10KM ROAD RACE & FAMILY FUN RUN Bishop Sutton Primary School, Wick Road, BS39 5XD, chewvalleyfunrun@gmx.co.uk, 9.30am. £13/£11 (10km race), £3 (fun run), enter online • The new Chew Valley 10k and a 1km children’s Fun Run will both start and finish at Bishop Sutton Primary School (Wick Road, BS39 5XD), close to Chew Valley lake. Runners in the 10km must be aged 15 or over. All Fun Runners receive a race number and medal on completion. Pre-race mass warm-up, plus refreshments and entertainment. SUN 16 JUN BIG GREEN WEEK: BRISTOL’S BIGGEST BIKE RIDE Bristol Millennium Square, Canon’s Road, Bristol, BS1 5DB. www.betterbybike.info and www. biggreenweek.com, 9am-10.30am, register online • Choose from a selection of routes ranging from 9 to 38 miles and head off on one of the largest non-competitive cycling events in the UK. See Page 4 feature. SUN 16 JUN BIG GREEN WEEK: AFRICAN SAMBISTAS DANCE WORKSHOP Queens Square, Bristol, BS1 4LH. www.biggreenweek.com, 2pm5pm, free • Sample a free dance workshop and live drumming courtesy of the African Sambistas as part of Refuge Week. Expects lots of dancing and tasty food stalls. SUN 16 JUN BIG GREEN WEEK: FATHERS’ DAY FAMILY WOODLAND ADVENTURE Bristol Forest School, Leigh Court Farm Ltd, Pill Road, Abbots Leigh, Bristol, BS8 3RA. 0117 977 1830,
TUE 18 JUN–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. SUN 19 JUN MINI BEAST HUNT Leigh Woods, Bristol, BS8 3PZ. Park on North Road and follow the signs. 08442 491895, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/leighwoods, 10am & 12.30pm, £3.50, booking essential via website or telephone • Join the head ranger in the search of mini beasts and creatures that lurk under logs and stones. THU 20 JUN JOHN LAWSON’S CIRCUS TOUR Bridge Farm Primary School, East Dundry Road, Whitchurch, BS14 0LL. 01275 834079, 4pm and 6.30pm, £7.50, book tickets by phone or pta.bridgefarmp@ bristol.gov.uk • Voted Britain’s best circus, watch dazzling acrobats and cheeky clowns at two special shows this June. SAT 22 JUN WOMAD 2013 AT BRISTOL ZOO Bristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 3HA. 0117 974 7399, www.bristolzoo.org.uk, 6pm11pm, £22 (adult)/£5 (child)/ free (under 5s), book online • Music and dance from around the world showcased at the zoo this summer as it partners with world-renowned music festival, WOMAD, for the third year running. SAT 22 JUN BIG GREEN WEEK: BRISTOL’S BIG MARKET Corn Street, Bristol, BS1. www. biggreenweek.com, 11am-6pm, free • A plethora of stalls sell everything from artisan food and drink to vintage curios, arts and crafts, Fair Trade products and more. SAT 22 JUN BIG GREEN WEEK: BRISTOL URBAN GARDEN PARTY The Island, Nelson Street, Bristol, BS1 2LE. 01173 763457, www. theislandbristol.com, 12pm, free • For one day only the courtyard of the Old Police Station becomes an eclectic garden offering plenty of activities. Workshops covering cycling, micro-gardening, art and music are on offer.
SAT 22 JUN BIG GREEN WEEK: THE ULTRABIKE: A MIRACLE OF SCIENCE Amphitheatre, Bristol Harbourside, BS1 5LL. www.biggreenweek.com, 11am-3pm, free • This remarkable bike allows blind or visually impaired people to cycle independently using the power of ultrasound. Check out this technology in action. SAT 22 JUN STANBRIDGE PRIMARY SCHOOL SUMMER FAYRE Stanbridge Road, Downend, Bristol, BS16 6AL. 11am-2pm • The summer fayre with a Spanish theme. SAT 22 JUN CURZON KIDS FILM CLUB: ELEANOR’S SECRET Curzon Community Cinema, 46-48 Old Church Road, Clevedon, North Somerset. 01275 879115, www.curzon.org.uk, 10am, £3.50, advance booking 01275 871000 or online • After Nathanael inherits his eccentric’s aunt book collection, he discovers that all the heroes of children’s literature have taken shelter in the books and are now counting on him to save them. SAT 22-SUN 23 JUN BIKE BATH Various locations around Bath. www.bikebath.co.uk • The routes on Saturday head to the south of Bath on a rolling course with a few hills. The routes incorporate Britain’s longest cycle tunnel and a series of feed stations featuring gourmet produce from local food and drink suppliers. SAT 22-SUN 23 JUN EASTCOMBE GNOME HUNT Eastcombe Primary School, Dr Crouchs Road, Eastcombe, Gloucestershire GL6 7EA. 2pm5.30pm • An invasion of gnomes descends upon the picturesque village of Eastcombe. Starting in the school’s playground, participants are invited to find the gnomes, collect clues and solve the puzzle to win a gnome of their own. SUN 23 JUN BIG GREEN WEEK: PARK STREET PLAYGROUND Park Street, Bristol, BS1. www. biggreenweek.com, 11am, free • A mass takeover of Bristol’s iconic Park Street sees 1,000 local children and parents playing games on the road during the car free day. SUN 23 JUN BIG GREEN WEEK: MOBILE SORTING OFFICE 451 Broad Quay, Bristol, BS1. www. kiltertheatre.org and www.biggreenweek.com, 11am-6pm, free • Kilter is a pioneering low-carbon theatre that puts on eco-friendly productions. Join it for a letter writing emporium and miniature theatre accompanied by live music. »
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ROUNDABOUT SUN 23 JUN BIG GREEN WEEK: EXTREME MOUNTAIN BIKE SHOW College Green, Bristol, BS1. www. extrememountainbikeshow.co.uk or www.biggreenweek.com, 12pm5pm, free • Danny Butler - five times British and European men’s elite trials champion – and BMX champion Matti Hemmings will be wowing crowds throughout the day with an impressive set of stunts. SUN 23 JUN BIG GREEN WEEK: ATMOSPHERE ELECTRIC BIKES WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP Park Street, Bristol, BS1. www. biggreenweek.com and www. electricbikes.org.uk, 2pm, free • Electric bicycles are pitted against each other to compete for the esteemed Atmosphere Electric Trophy. MON 24 JUN-SUN 7 JUL CELEBRATING AGE FESTIVAL Colston St, Bristol, BS1 5AR. 0117 927 6614, www.bristol.gov.uk/celebratingage • Being over 55 is no excuse to stop going to festivals, so kids get your mum, dad, granny or granddad up out their seat and down celebrating. Lots of things to do, from singing and dancing to writing, craft making, gardening and baking. SAT 29 JUN SCHOOL FAIR St.Anne’s Infant & Junior Schools Summer Fair, BS4 4EJ. 12pm, free • Children’s crafts, local traders, stalls, games, face painting, cafe and much more!
JULY MON 1-SUN 28 JUL PAGES OF THE PAST TRAIL Lacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum and Village, Lacock, near Chippenham, SN15 2LG. 01249 730459, www.nationaltrust.org. uk/lacock, 10.30am-5.30pm, standard admission applies • Discover weird and wonderful facts about medieval bookmaking as you step back in time to medieval Lacock on this self-led family trail. WED 3 JUL ROMEO AND JULIET Westonbirt School. Tetbury, Gloucestershire GL8 8QG. 01666 880333, www.westonbirt.gloucs. sch.uk, 7pm, £14.50 (adult)/£5 (student & under 18s)/free (under 7s), pre book tickets by phone or email twarner@westonbirt.org • Enjoy this outdoor performance of Shakespeare’s enduring tale. The school’s grounds opens at 6pm for a pre-show picnic. THU 4-SUN 7 JUL THE BARBURY INTERNATIONAL EVENTING AND SHOW Marlborough, Wiltshire, SN8 1RS. 01672 516125, www.barburyhorse20
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PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES!
Barbury International Eventing & Show, 4-7 Jul
Parabola Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 3AA. 01242 707338, www.parabolaartscentre. co.uk, 11am-12.15pm, £8 (adult)/£5 (child), book online • Blending comedy and amazing piano skills, this wacky duo are an act like no other. SAT 13 JUL-SUN 21 JUL BRISTOL CYCLE FESTIVAL Various locations around Bristol. www.bristolcyclefestival.com • Since 2010, Bristol Cycle Festival has been pulling together the best events that the city’s vibrant cycling community can provide. See our feature on Page 6 this issue for more information and website for full programme.
trials.co.uk, all day, £18/£12 (see promotional offer below) • An exciting blend of fun, food and spectacle, the trials host Olympic winners performing on a special course designed by Captain Mark Phillips. Top chefs will be providing mouth-watering cuisine for those feeling peckish. Primary Times readers can get free entry for one adult with every adult ticket purchased. Simply enter promotional code PRIMARY when buying tickets online. FRI 5-SAT 6 JUL BIOBLITZ Cranham Scout Centre, Cranham, Gloucestershire, GL4 8HP. 07964246113, www. cotswoldnnrbioblitz.weebly. com, Fri 10am–Sat 2pm • This summertime BioBlitz invites naturalists, students, school children and the public to explore and record local wildlife. SAT 6 JUL DECOMPOSED! (CMF) Parabola Arts Centre, Parabola Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 3AA. 01242 707338, www.parabolaartscentre. co.uk, 11am-12pm, £8 (adult)/£5 (child), book online • Brothers Roland Taylor and Tim Armstrong Taylor a.k.a. Classical Mayhem take the audience on a slapstick, interactive whirlwind tour of classical music. Suitable for 7+ SAT 6 JUL CHURCHILL PRIMARY SCHOOL PTA FUNDRAISING FAIR Churchill Primary School, Pudding Pie Lane, Langford, Bristol, North Somerset, BS40 5EL. 12pm • Maypole dancing, inflatables, children’s games to play, BBQ, bar, tea and cakes plus guest stalls selling a variety of craft and food items. Educational animal organisation Edupet is also present with its amazing collection of animals. SAT 6-SUN 7 JUL RACE FOR LIFE The Downs, Bristol, BS8 2RS. www.raceforlife.cancerresearchuk.org, 2pm (Sat, 10k), 11am (Sun, 5k), £14.99 (adult)/£10 (child) • Fight cancer in the Bristol round of Race For Life. This inspiring women-only series of events
raises millions of pounds every year to help defeat cancer by funding life-saving research. SAT 6-SUN 7 JUL COTSWOLD SHOW Bathurst Estate, Cirencester Park, Cirencester, GL7 2BU. 01285 652007, www.cotswoldshow.co.uk, 9am, £10 (adult)/£4 (child)/£27 (family) • This year marks the show’s 25th anniversary and the site has been extended with over 50 booked attractions including motorcycle display teams and the National Festival Circus. SUN 7 JUL QUILL AND PARCHMENT Lacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum and Village, Lacock, near Chippenham, SN15 2LG. 01249 730459, www.nationaltrust.org. uk/lacock, 10.30am, standard admission applies • Meet members of Black Knight Living History group who will be demonstrating the fascinating art of making medieval manuscripts. SUN 7 JUL JAMES MAYHEW’S PAINTED FIREBIRD (CMF) Parabola Arts Centre, Parabola Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 3AA. 01242 707338, www.parabolaartscentre. co.uk, 11am, £8 (adult)/£5 (child), book online • Featuring Russian pianist Nikolai Ponomarev, Mayhew’s fiery tale of monsters, a terrible sorcerer, a magical kingdom and thirteen beautiful princesses is brought to life. 7+ FRI 12-SUN 14 JUL FOODIES FESTIVAL Bristol Harbourside. 0844 995 1111, www.foodiesfestival.com, 11am-8pm, £12 (one day adult £10 concession)/£18 (three day adult - £15)/£38 (1-day VIP)/free (child under 12), book online or by phone • The ������������������������� UK’s largest celebration of food and drink will see visitors flock from the surrounding areas to feast on the vast array of culinary activities for the third consecutive year in Bristol. Quote discount code prim241 when purchasing tickets to get 2 for 1. SAT 13 JUL WORBEY AND FARRELL Parabola Arts Centre,
SUN 14 JUL STORYTELLING IN SONG Parabola Arts Centre, Parabola Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 3AA. 01242 707338, www.parabolaartscentre. co.uk, 2pm-3pm, £8 (adult)/£5 (child), book online • Dominic Harlan’s impressive storytelling and song project returns with specially created new material. An interactive concert suitable for ages 7+. SUN 14 JUL ARCHAEOLOGY AND CONSERVATION FAIR Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre, Cocklebury Road, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 3QN. 01249 705500, www.wshc. eu, 11am-4pm, free • Meet 20 local organisations involved in archaeology and find out about fieldwork opportunities, clubs for children, local societies and museums. Fun activities for children and a chance to handle objects from local museums. 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 cult classics with The Lion King at 5pm and Ghostbusters at 8pm. SAT 20-SUN 21 JUL ROYAL INTERNATIONAL AIR TATTOO RAF Fairford, Gloucestershire, GL7 4RB. 7.30am-8.30pm • A weekend of aviation excellence. 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.
LISTINGS BY ALEX SAUNDERS PRIMARY TIMES
5/8/2013 10:54:53 AM
PLAY IT
SAFE
Kirsty Woodgate casts a spotlight on child safety as holiday season looms.
D
uring Child Safety Week, from 24th to 30th June, families will be encouraged to make simple changes to protect children from serious harm. The message from the Child Accident Prevention Trust (CAPT) to parents is, “You don’t have to be superhuman to be a safety hero.” The group suggests that the small actions parents make, day in and day out, prevent a child from suffering serious harm. CAPT is calling on parents and families to think of a few simple changes that they are able to make such as moving a hot drink out of reach or checking the safety gate on the stairs is shut. The week involves events up and down the country run by childrens’ centres, playgroups, childminders, schools, health centres, fire and rescue services and road safety departments. There will be activities for children and parents, demonstrations from fire, rescue and police services and car seat checking. CAPT are also offering safety advice by age group, letting parents know what to watch out for as their child grows up. One of the reasons children have accidents is because they develop so fast and mums and dads can’t keep up! Find out more at www.capt.org.uk/ safety-advice or www.childsafetyweek.org.uk Keeping children safe on and near the roads Every year around 4,400 children under 10 years old are injured and around 22 killed as car passengers on British roads so it is essential for parents to teach their children some basic road safety skills. General road safety tips • Teach young children that cars can be dangerous even when they are moving very slowly. • Be aware that if a car is reversing in a car park or a driveway, the driver may not be able to see a PRIMARY TIMES
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dangers of swimming in canals, lakes or rivers. Strong currents, deep water and objects in the water that they can’t see can be really dangerous. • All children aged under 8 should be supervised around water. Young children might understand instructions but are likely to forget them if they are having fun. • Be sure to empty the paddling pool as soon as you’re finished rather than leave it for the next day • Encourage children to swim in safe places like swimming pools that have trained lifeguards. very small child if they are below the level visible from their rear or side windows. • All children under 9 need help from an adult when crossing the road. Young children can’t judge distance in the same way as adults. They don’t know how fast a car or bike is going, and how long they have to cross the road. Teaching them the basics can be fun, and will give them a good start in road safety. • Children aged 7 to 11 are at real risk from road accidents as they are easily distracted and may run out on the road quickly. Children of this age may also struggle to judge speed and distances very well, but it’s a good age to learn the Green Cross Code, and the earlier they learn, the safer they will be. • It’s safest to hold your child’s hand in car parks just as you would when crossing the road. • The law says that all children under 12 and under 135cm should have a proper child restraint in the car. • Be careful that your child’s fingers are not caught in windows or doors when they are getting in or out of the car. • Older primary school aged children who love cycling are not old enough to cycle alone on
busy roads. But, with the right supervision, they can learn how to ride on the roads safely. Look for cycle training schemes such as Bikeability in your area – take a look at www.dft.gov.uk/bikeability
So, take positive action this Child Safety Week and make some small, but essential steps to creating a safer environment for your family – it’ll be worth it!
Keeping children safe on and near water Children should be able to enjoy the water without being in danger, yet in the past six years, 30 children from the UK under the age of ten have drowned on holiday abroad. Children can slip silently under the water and drown quickly, which is why it is so important to be vigilant and always supervise young children closely around water. This is especially important when away on holiday, where the environment, regulations and routines are different, and parents will be relaxed and maybe off their guard. Water safety at home and away • Teach children that they must swim between the two-coloured red and yellow flags on UK beaches as these are patrolled by lifeguards. Make sure you watch children closely whenever they are in the water. For more information on beach safety see www.rnli. org.uk • Spend time explaining to older primary school aged children the MAY HALF TERM 2013
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Parents’ & teachers’
news, education & contacts
SABIS opens in Bath Showcasing talent St Katherine’s School is described by its students as, “The best place for young people to learn and grow up.” It has been a Science College since 2003 and, as a High Performing Specialist School, has a second specialism of Applied Learning as well as being a Lead School for Gifted and Talented. Students are involved in a host of events and extracurricular activities. There are also many outstanding opportunities including sports and music as part of its extensive Gifted and Talented programmes. The school holds a Year 7 showcase evening on Thursday 4 Jul from 6–8pm, and invites current and prospective parents to join them. This evening gives parents, and those considering the school for their child’s secondary education, the opportunity to see some of the excellent work carried out by Year 7 students in their first year at the school. An open evening is also held on Thu 19 Sep. Ffi: W: www.st-katherines.n-somerset. sch.uk
Looking for a great idea for your child’s next birthday? Why not hire your local community, church or sports hall and throw a pirate party with the help of Pirate Attack? The kids will love it and it’ll be healthy, active, affordable and weather-proof. Pirate Attack provides entertainment and games for public events and birthday parties throughout Avon. Jess Wright of the venue Zion Community Art Space says, “Pirate Attack was a fantastic success at Zion. It was lovely to see the space being used in a different way and to see a mixture of ages enjoying themselves.” A party package for up to 10 children, including two hour venue hire, bouncy castle and games, costs as little as £80, depending on your choice of venue. You can even combine parties, paying a small supplement for additional children (up to a maximum of 20).
Ffi: T: 01225 891028 E: admissions@ sisuk-sabis.net
Ffi: T: 0117 939 4311 W: www.pirateattack.co.uk E: ahoy@pirateattack.co.uk
Absolutely free! Bristol Festival of Nature, 15-16 Jun, Bristol Harbourside
Joust in time See Cardiff Castle come alive on Sat 22 and Sun 23 June when the attraction holds its annual Joust! The site will be transformed into a colourful medieval village, flags and pennants fluttering in the breeze, while the arena is set ready for the magnificent jousting tournament. Galloping into the grounds will be the brave knights with their banners held high ready to do battle. Ffi: www.cardiffcastle.com
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Shiver me timbers!
The global education system and network of schools, SABIS, has announced the opening of the SABIS International School UK (SIS-UK). Situated on 148 acres of countryside near Bath, SIS-UK provides an environment in which students from the UK and around the world can form lifelong friendships while nurturing a thirst for lifelong learning. SIS-UK will implement the SABIS Educational System, a comprehensive education system with a balance of academics, self-development and life preparation. Year after year, this proven system helps students achieve outstanding results at IGCSEs, A Levels, and the International Baccalaureate. SABIS graduates are accepted in the world’s most prestigious universities. The school invites you to join them at its Open Day on Saturday the 18 May when you can meet teaching and pastoral staff and current students, tour the school grounds, and find out more about the SABIS® Educational System and its international network of schools.
Discover your wild side at the 10th anniversary of the Bristol Festival of Nature, returning to Bristol’s Harbourside this summer on Sat 15-Sun 16 Jun. Giving wildlife enthusiasts of all ages the opportunity to explore and enjoy the natural world in heart of the city, the festival brings together over 150 organisations for a programme of interactive exhibitions, hands-on experiences, live entertainment, a market packed with local produce and much more. Enjoy activities for the whole family, with animal encounters including a pop-up butterfly house and giant insects, a chance to meet the presenters of your favourite BBC nature shows, hands-on science activities and wildlife arts and crafts. On Sun 16 Jun, you can combine your visit with Bristol’s Biggest Bike Ride for a full free family day out in Bristol. Ffi: www.festivalofnature.org
Have a harp Did you know your child can learn the Harmonica at school? And it’s fun, cheap, cool, portable, confidence-building, and easy to play. HarpsCool.co.uk is a small, independent music service established in 1996 which offers harmonica lessons for children in school. Head teachers have made comments like: “The impact of HarpsCool has been fantastic,”; “A whole new bunch are now playing music and enjoying it,”; “Learning the harmonica has had a manifest impact on other aspects of children’s learning and behaviour in school.” Relatives like it too. The godmother of one child said. “Not sure if J was huffing and puffing in the right places, but his self-esteem has hit the roof.” And you can organise Harmonicathemed birthday parties. One organiser said, “Just to say thank you for all your hard work at S’s birthday party. He would have liked to sit and play harmonica with you all evening. Fantastic fun!” Ffi: T: 07599 561514 E: info@harpscool.co.uk W: www. HarpsCool.co.uk (press red button)
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SUMMER SCHOOL Monday 29th July to Thursday 1st August 9.00am to 4.00pm at Downend Folk House, Lincombe Barn, Overndale Road, Downend, Bristol BS16 2RW
Call now to reserve your place.
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
d r a o b n Pi Party time at Flingers Wondering how to make your child’s next birthday extra special? Flingers Party Shop can supply everything you could possibly need for the perfect party. The shop in Patchway has been open for 23 years and its experienced staff are keen to share their knowledge with you. And you can shop in store or on the new website. There’s a dazzling selection of products for newborns all the way up to teenagers. Fun tableware themes such as “space” and “jungle”, plus accessories, make your child’s birthday one to remember. A broad range of bakeware will entice you into the kitchen to create the perfect birthday cake. There’s also a fantastic range of children’s fancy dress to help their imagination run wild. Primary Times readers get 15% off everything on the website. Simply enter the code “primarytimes” at the checkout. Ffi: Flingers Party Shop, 73-75 Gloucester Road, Patchway, Bristol, BS34 5JQ T: 0117 931 2206 W: www. flingerspartyshop.co.uk
Happy Campers Fancy a touring break? Katy’s Campers offers: • New, genuine Volkswagen camper vans, with all the charm of the iconic orginals and the safety and reliability of new engines. • Four or five seats in all vehicles, with three point seat belts for a baby or child seat. • Clever, modern fixtures and fittings, which make your van a home from home: two double beds, cooker, fridge, dining table and more. • A unique service with a worry free, effortless camper van experience: All your equipment and accessories are carefully packed and prepared for you. • The Bristol base, just off the M4 and M5 motorways, is ideally situated to explore the beautiful South West. An hour from Devon, South Wales and the Cotswolds. • Your car is secure in the company’s covered unit with 24 hour security. Ffi: W: www.katyscampers.com E: katy@katyscampers.com T: 0117 971 4025/07861 475289
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Parents’ & teachers’
news, education & contacts
Valley adventure Avon Valley Adventure Park is set in one of the most idyllic areas of the beautiful Avon Valley, bounded by the picturesque river. The park has a huge number of activities for children and adults alike including a large outside adventure playground, huge indoor soft play area and three large slides. The Riverside experience is a tranquil riverside walk with interactive storyboard, quizzes, junior assault course, fishing lake and boating lake. You’ll meet lots of friendly animals on the walk including reindeer, rheas, alpacas, donkeys and goats. There’s a pre-school undercover inflatable area, mini steam train rides and more, plus a playbarn, open daily There are plenty of undercover eating areas for everyone, plus hand washing and toilet facilities. Everything included in entrance price except motorised activities. Large discounts available for groups and school trips. Ffi: T: 0117 986 4929 W: www.avonvalleycountrypark.com
Achieving excellence! Catriona Mangham, head teacher of Fairfield High School, writes: “I have now been Headteacher at Fairfield High School for nearly four years and it was incredible to have the best value added score of any school in Bristol for our last set of results and to have outstanding levels of progress across the core subjects. “As a school we strongly believe in traditional values underpinning an ethos which ensures every student is supported to succeed. Here you will find a house system, prefects and a sports day running alongside higher ability programmes and intervention subject support. “Year 7 has the opportunity to learn a number of different languages. We also believe in preparing students to be the citizens of tomorrow and instil in them a clear understanding of their part in local, national and international communities. “Come and visit and experience the school for yourself!” Ffi: T: 0117 952 7100 E: fairfield.s@ bristol.gov.uk
Bluestone luxury Get away from the stresses and strains of dayto-day life with a luxury short break holiday at Bluestone National Park Resort in spectacular Pembrokeshire. Bluestone is a great getaway for the family. Situated in 500 acres of countryside within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, there’s plenty to do all year. Relax and unwind in the luxury accommodation before embarking on fun-filled indoor and outdoor activities from the adrenalin pumping Steep Ravine with its high ropes and zip wire, to family battles on the Tournament Field. And there’s a wide range of children’s activities, from beast hunting in the woods, pond dipping, getting involved in a Once Upon a Time Wild Wood Wonderland interactive story, to the waves and flumes at the Blue Lagoon. Grown ups can relax at The Well Spa, with its steam rooms and treatments, before enjoying the Carreg Las restaurant, the Tafarn pub or The Yard restaurant. Ffi: W: www.bluestonewales.com
Birthday parties at Old Down “I cuddled a lamb,” Faith, aged 2 Hold your child’s birthday party at one of the best venues in Bristol. Old Down Country Park has installed a Mongolian Yurt in its orchard, the perfect place for a traditional family party. The venue has fantastic play equipment, woodland walks, views across to Wales, farm animals and beautiful formal grounds surrounding the Manor House. The party packages include full use of the park, Animal Encounters and private use of the yurt and outdoor fire pit for £7 per child. Lunch boxes are £3 each. There are also Forest School Parties in conjunction with ‘Schools in the Forest’. Ffi: T: 01454 414081 E: info@olddownpark.co.uk . W: www.olddowncountrypark.co.uk
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Adver tising Feature
Let’s start to swim Swimstart has provided a unique and holistic swimming tuition service to its clients now for over 25 years. The National Governing Body for swimming, the ASA, has recently put all its expertise and efforts into promoting a safer swimming experience for children of all ages (see ‘Splash’ article in the last Primary Times). So has Swimstart, whose Swimschools Training and Consultancy provides dedicated, affordable, professional and personal coaching for all ages and abilities. It specialises in working with children with moderate and severe learning difficulties (MLD and SLD) such as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, Autism and physical disability, providing support and guidance on how to facilitate those needs. Swimstart believes it is the only school to have access to a specialist osteopathy advice and support service with additional specialist support in aquaphobia both in children and adults. The school is small and based at two private members health clubs and so is able to enjoy clean, quiet and exclusive facilities with dedicated staff to help make the swimming experience effective and successful. It offers a free initial assessment, advice and guidance session to ensure your child’s needs are understood and met. Give your child the best start with Swimstart. Application and registration forms can be downloaded from the website. • Ffi T: Mark on 0777 6292813/01454 228102 W: www.swimstart.com E: mark.swimming@btinternet.com
Adver tising Feature
Cool for Cats
Stagecoach celebrates 25th year with giant musical This March, 3,000 young performers, including 76 young singers and dancers from Bristol, took part in Britain’s largest ever performance of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical, ‘Cats’. Stagecoach Theatre Arts celebrated its 25th anniversary in style with an outstanding performance at the NIA, Birmingham. The main cast consisted of 50 specially selected dancers and 500 singers in a grand choir from 13 Stagecoach schools, plus 2,500 young performers from a further 47 schools throughout the UK, Malta, Germany and Ireland. These students were supported by a virtual choir of international students, visible on large screens. The orchestra was conducted by Paul Leddington Wright. In the run up to the event a whole host of celebrities including Dani Harmer, Will Young, Kerry Ellis, Gareth Malone and Martin Freeman, sent their well-wishes to Stagecoach for their anniversary celebrations. Performer Charlotte Jaconelli, one half of opera duo Jonathan and Charlotte, who led the production, says, “I always wanted to be part of the performing arts and if it wasn’t for my incredible 11years of training at Stagecoach, I don’t believe I’d be where I am now.” Veronica Bennetts, director of education for Stagecoach, says, “Jonathan and Charlotte’s opening performance will have inspired many of our stars of the future.” Stagecoach, founded in 1988, now has almost 600 centres throughout the UK. It offers quality training in drama, dance and singing to young performers from 4-18. • Ffi W: www.stagecoach.co.uk Tw: www.twitter.com/stagecoach_gbr Fa: www.facebook.com/stagecoachtheatrearts
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My mate, primate Lemur Week 25 – 31May The Cotswold Wildlife Park is having a week of lemur-based talks and activities to highlight its lemur conservation work, hoping to save species such as the great bamboo lemur and sifaka from extinction. All money raised during the week will go towards these projects. Sifaka Conservation aims to protect crowned sifaka in forest fragments in Central and Western Madagascar. Very small family groups of this species have been found in tiny patches of the remaining forest and they are working towards the management of these groups. As well as funding, the park has provided this project with camping equipment, radios, capture equipment and technical assistance. Techniques learned from this project may well prove extremely useful, not only for the population of crowned sifaka, but for many other species throughout the world that are currently at risk from habitat destruction. Project Bamboo Lemur is a project dedicated to the discovery and protection of new groups of this little known lemur, one of the world’s most endangered primates. The park has been heavily involved with the project since its inception and have watched it go from strength to strength in recent years. Many of the observations of these lemurs at the park, have been made available to researchers working in the field and in some cases, have not been seen before. Ffi: W: www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk/conservation
Adver tising Feature
Jumbo thrills at Noah’s Ark It’s springtime at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Bristol, the perfect season to watch nature at its best with baby animals including meerkats and tapirs now enjoying the brighter weather outside. Noah’s Ark offers incredible up-close experiences with amazing animals, including seeing the lions and tigers being fed during the ‘Big Cat Talk’ and meeting the giraffe family at the daily ‘Giraffe Feed’ where you can help the keepers feed them. With plenty to do all day, in all weather, why not take the family to North Somerset’s award-winning 100 acre attraction? Enjoy 12 exciting adventure play areas, an indoor Animal Village and covered Animal Show Pens. Daily events include the popular interactive ‘Animal Show’ with a chance to bottle-feed the lambs, and the regular bumpy tractor rides across the farm with views to Wales. Get set for a jumbo new experience this summer when the zoo opens ‘Elephant Eden’, a new 20 acre sanctuary for elephants where families can get within a trunk’s length of nature’s biggest land mammal and learn about the importance of conservation. For a fantastic family day out, go wild at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm this year! • Ffi W: www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk
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W o u l d y ou l i k e t o p rom o t e y ou r b u s i n es s w i t h P r i m a r y T i mes f o r t h e s um m er h o l i d a y s ?
T he f e a tu r e s i n c l ud e d a r e : • D a n c e S c ho o l s • S u m m e r D a y s O ut • Gar d e n in g F or Ki ds To reach 66.000 families in your area please contact Caroline Stretton Advertising Sales Tel 0117 934 3737 caroline.stretton@b-nm.co.uk Avon Primary Times
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Adver tising Feature
To make our best better Dean Anderson, the principal of Broadlands Academy, Keynsham, writes: “As the first principal of the new Broadlands Academy in Keynsham, I took up the post on 1 January 2013. The Academy is sponsored by the Academies Enterprise Trust (AET), a rapidly growing, nationwide, multi-academy sponsor. They are the largest academy chain in the country and working with them is a fantastic opportunity which we will take full advantage of for the benefit of all our students and our community. This partnership has secured the future of Broadlands and we are determined the new Academy will be able to grow and flourish, providing an outstanding education for those students who choose to come here. “Broadlands Academy’s motto is ‘To make our best better’ and all at Broadlands firmly believe that children are entitled to attend a good school, wherever they live. We believe that, with the support of the AET, we will be able to provide all our students with the academic and social opportunities they require and we can call on support and links with a number of different schools and organisations to achieve this. “Conscious of additional costs for families in the current economic climate, the academy will provide all students with a blazer and tie free of charge this September. This includes all new Year 7 students and any students who join us in other year groups throughout the year.” • Ffi Broadlands Academy T: 0117 986 4791 E: contactus@broadlandsacademy.org
Adver tising Feature
Success at St Bernadette St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School is a vibrant learning community located in Whitchurch, Bristol. Its motto is, ‘Growing and learning in faith’ and each of its 750 pupils is valued and makes a positive contribution to this friendly, caring school. The school is committed to ensuring every child achieves their potential and, in 2012, celebrated the best results in its history. At St Bernadette pupils are expected to aim high and to be successful in their learning. Pupils of all abilities do well and the engaging curriculum, modern buildings and extra-curricular activities offer them a variety of opportunities. Positive relationships underpin life at St Bernadette. There are high expectations of pupils in all areas of school life. In 2011 Ofsted said, “Students are proud of their school. They are polite and friendly, and behave well.” St Bernadette welcomes applications from all those seeking a quality education for their children within a caring, supportive environment. • Ffi St Bernadette T: 0117 377 2050 W: www.stberns.bristol.sch.uk
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Adver tising Feature
Bristol Playday 2013
Sat 23rd - Sun 24th March, Wed 27th - March
Playful Places, College Green, Bristol, Wed 7 Aug, The national Playday 2013 campaign theme is ‘Playful places’. It calls on everyone to help make sure that the places where children live and hang out are great places to play. Bristol Youth Links is supporting Playday by showcasing innovative, safe and high quality services for children and young people. Bristol Youth Links wants to: • Celebrate children and young people’s play locally and nationally; • Give children and young people the time and space they need to play because fun and exciting opportunities to play are part of a happy healthy childhood; • Encourage everyone in the community to contribute to supporting children and young people’s right to play because they are good for children and young people, good for families and good for communities; • Let children and young people enjoy playing outside, getting muddy and climbing trees; • Support children and young people’s health, well-being, happiness and future development to build vital life and social skills through playing; • Give families from different communities, cultures and parts of the city the chance to meet up; • Provide everyone with a great day out.
S
• Ffi W: www.playday.org.uk; www.bristol. org.uk, www.goplacestoplay.org.uk, www. playingout.net Tw: @BristolYouth Fa: BristolYouthLinks
Adver tising Feature
A dental dream come true Ever since they qualified together from the University of Birmingham in 1997, Dr Nicola White and Dr Catherine (Kate) Spalding have dreamed of one day opening their own dental practice. Now that dream has become a reality. In June 2013, the two denDr Nicola White (left) and Dr tists will open the doors to Catherine (Kate) Spalding their new state-of-the-art practice on North View, Westbury Park where they have created a warm and welcoming atmosphere, reflecting their own ethos and values. “We want our patients to feel relaxed and confident coming to the practice. We understand that a visit to the dentist can be worrying for some people, but we are here to help,” says Kate. Having studied medical hypnotherapy, Kate is excellent at making patients feel relaxed and strongly believes that a visit to the dentist should be a positive experience. Nicola has a particular interest in cosmetic dentistry, including adult orthodontic treatments. The Six Month Smile Orthodentic System uses specialised clear braces that gently straightens and aligns teeth in an average of six months. She also offers a full range of facial aesthetics including wrinkle reducing treatments and dermal fillers. “When people are confident about their smile, it can really make a difference to the way they feel,” says Nicola. Kate and Nicola believe passionately in caring for children’s teeth and so will treat your children free of charge if a parent is registered at Beau Monde. You can look forward to a warm welcome at the new practice on North View, Bristol.
Would you like to promote your school or business in the September Back To School edition of Primary Times The features included are: • Choosing A Secondary School • Extra Curricular Activities To reach 66,000 families in your area please contact: Caroline Stretton Advertising Sales Tel 0117 934 3737 caroline.stretton@b-nm.co.uk Avon Primary Times
• Ffi T: 0117 330 3495 E: info@beaumondedental.co.uk W: www.beaumondedental.co.uk
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Daddy cool! It’s time to make a fuss over Dad, says Alex Saunders, as he discovers the origins of Father’s Day and offers a few unusual gift ideas.
D
espite their cheesy jokes, their insatiable desire to watch ancient westerns and their defiantly smelly feet, dads are pretty useful to have around, when you think about it. Typically, they’re ever-available chauffeurs for after school and weekend activities, perpetual handymen and fonts of occasional wisdom, deserving recognition for their efforts. This year’s Father’s Day on Sunday 16 June is the perfect opportunity to show them how much they mean to us. The roots of this paternal celebration originated in the USA at the beginning of the 20th century when, inspired by the establishment of the official Mother’s Day in 1908, one Sonora Smart Dodd of Washington state campaigned for similar recognition for fathers. Sonora was the daughter of Civil War veteran William Jackson Smart, who had raised her and her five brothers singlehandedly after his wife died in childbirth. It was first celebrated in 1910 in Sonora’s home town of Spokane and might have gone no further had President Woodrow Wilson not praised her idea in a telegram of 1916. Subsequently Lyndon B. Johnson sealed the idea in the national (and eventually international) psyche with a presidential proclamation in 1966. The day itself can be celebrated in a myriad of ways ranging from a cooked breakfast in bed to a full day event that brings the whole family together. Whether he’s the sort of dad who loves getting creative, wants to zoom around a circuit or is happy with a small keepsake, try thinking beyond the mountain of ties, socks and jumpers that he’ll have accumulated during his career for that perfect gift.
Drawing upon its motoring heritage, the iconic publishing house also produces a range of illustrative manuals covering everything from Formula 1 racing and technology to cooking up the perfect BBQ.
MiniMoto
Castle Combe
ing, these fast-paced days will allow dads to unlock their inner speed demon without worrying about those pesky speed cameras.
Fab Bricks
This cleverly named company produce intricate key chains using individually personalised Lego bricks. Immortalise your dad’s favourite film character or even create your dad’s very own Lego look-a-like to keep all his jangling keys in one place.
Flying Saucers
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Haynes’ Manuals Flying Saucers
MiniMoto
Join the fun at this creative painting poetry café with workshops in Bristol and Wiltshire. Take Dad along and choose a plate, bow or even piggy bank to paint, using the shop’s inspiration book for ideas on designs. One nice idea is to decorate a picture frame that will hold a photographic souvenir of the creative day.
Castle Combe Circuit Let dads shift into top gear and put the pedal to the metal with a range of exciting track days at the historic Castle Combe Circuit. Whether it’s four or two wheels that get the old man’s heart rac-
Operating at their large indoor circuit at Hullavington, MiniMoto racing offers the thrill of motorcycle racing on miniature scaled down superbikes. Offering open MiniMoto evenings every Friday, bikes can be hired from the circuit’s extensive range for dads wishing to burn some rubber.
For an informative present look no further than Haynes’ ‘Dad Manual’ which is full to the brim with handy tips and advice for active dads.
Castle Combe Circuit Castle Combe, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN14 7EY. T: 01249 782417. W: www.castlecombecircuit.co.uk/ trackdays. Car track day £170. Motorcycle Track Day £125. Fab Bricks T: 01249 464884 W: www.fab-bricks.com Flying Saucers 9 Byron place (off the Triangle), Clifton Bristol, 0117 927 3666 AND 8 Weymouth St., Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 9NR. T: 01985 220110 W: www.flyingsaucers.co.uk Haynes ‘Dad Manual’ £14.99 W: www.haynes.co.uk MiniMoto Racing M4 Karting, Hangar 88 Hullavignton Airfield, Chippenham, SN14 6GU. T: 01666 838234 E: info@minimoto.co.uk W: www.minimoto.co.uk. £15 (first 10 minute session)/£10 (additional sessions). PRIMARY TIMES
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The Painting Pottery Café
Bristol’s largest and only dedicated paint-your-own-pottery • Suitable for ALL ages! • Over 100 items to choose from • Items professionally glazed and fired • Collect a few days later, and keep a lifetime!
Ideal for:
• Father’s / Mother’s Day presents • Wedding presents • Capturing baby’s foot or handprint • Children’s parties • Adult’s parties • Girl’s night out / hen nights • Office parties / socials • Unique gifts
PAINTED POTTERY MAKES PERFECT PRESENTS! 9 Byron Place (off the Clifton Triangle) Tel: (0117) 927 3666
www.flyingsaucers.co.uk
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Sounds of the
summer
Big Green Week’s Festival of Nature, Bristol
Music? Food? Sustainability? The West’s outdoor events cater for all tastes, as Alex Saunders discovers.
A
s the Great British summer approaches, the West Country’s fields and public spaces look set to bloom, not just with vegetation but with festivals and events. Come rain or shine (if last year is anything to go by), legions of fans will seek out all manner of eclectic entertainment from Big Green Week in Bristol to the traditional delights of Devizes Carnival. Leading the charge into the outdoor events season is Wychwood Festival, Cheltenham, widely seen as perfect for families seeking fun in the sun. “We’ve geared ourselves to a family audience so that parents can come along with children of any age and know they’re going to have a great time,” comments Wychwood’s co-founder Sam Shrouder. “We’ve got a whole range of activities, with family areas for camping, not to mention the children’s literary festival and all the workshops that are tailored for our young visitors!” Festivals are an affordable and exciting way of bringing the whole family together to experience new sights and sounds. Below is a selection of child-friendly events taking place throughout the region, so dust off those forgotten sunglasses and kick-start your summer! Fri 24-Mon 27 May CHIPPENHAM FOLK FESTIVAL Boasting an action-packed programme celebrating English tradi-
tional music, song and dance, this festival also has a dedicated children’s festival based on Island Park. Fri 24 May-Sat 8 Jun SALISBURY INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL For 16 days, Salisbury is awash with a vibrant celebration of the arts. Performance theatre, literature and music events take place in every nook and cranny of the city. Thu 30 May-Sun 2 Jun SUNRISE FESTIVAL A festival with an ethical twist, Sunrise is built upon a foundation of sustainability and responsible action. With a jampacked musical line up headlined by the Dub Pistols and The Beat, the eco-friendly fest also offers talks and workshops for all ages. Fri 31 May-Sun 2 Jun WYCHWOOD FESTIVAL The whole family is invited to Cheltenham Racecourse at the end of May for a weekend full of top quality music and comedy acts including The Human League and Bill Bailey. Sat 15-Sun 16 Jun BIG GREEN WEEK: BRISTOL FESTIVAL OF NATURE 2013 Part of Bristol’s celebration of all things sustainable, Big Green Week, Bristol Festival of Nature takes over the city’s Harbourside for “the UK’s larg-
Justin Fletcher by day and . . . PRIMARY TIMES
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est free natural history event”. Now 10 years old it is still dedicated to exploring the natural world in the heart of the city. Sat 6-Sun 7 Jul COTSWOLD SHOW Celebrating its 25th anniversary, this year’s action-packed family weekend returns with over 50 booked attractions including impressive motorcycle stunt teams and the National Festival Circus. Fri 12-Sun 14 Jul FOODIES FESTIVAL The whole family can enjoy mouth-watering feasts at Bristol Harbourside. Young ones get the chance to rustle up something delicious under the guidance of trained chefs. Wed 17-Sun 21 Jul LARMER TREE FESTIVAL Taking place in the idyllic Larmer Tree Gardens near Salisbury, this quirky festival features a stellar line up of musical acts, dedicated children shows, creative workshops and even a cheeky ale or two for the grown ups! Thu 25-Sun 28 Jul WOMAD This international music festival is bursting to the seams with acts from around the world, endless food stalls and dazzling art displays. WOMAD’s ethos is to use music as a universal language which creates new friendships and strengthen old ones.
Sun 25-Mon 26 Aug DEVIZES CARNIVAL After an explosive 100 th anniversary last year, this wellestablished carnival begins a new century of festivities with a vibrant event that blends eclectic street theatre with live music. Bristol Festival of Nature T: 0117 317 8751 W: www.bnhc. org.uk Chippenham Folk Festival £97 adult weekend/£48.50 youth T: 01249 657190 W: www.chippfolk.co.uk Cotswold Show £10 (adult)/£4 (child)/£27 (family) T: 01285 652007 W: www.cotswoldshow.co.uk Devizes Carnival W: www.devizescarnival.co.uk Foodies Festival £12/£18 (adult 1 day/3 day)/free (child under 12) T: 0844 995 1111 W: www.foodiesfestival.com Larmer Tree Festival £140 (adult 3 day)/£90 (youth 11-17)/£45 (child 5-10) T: 01725 552300 W: www. larmertreefestival.co.uk Salisbury International Arts Festival T: 0845 241 9651 W: www.salisburyfestival.co.uk Sunrise Festival £115 (adult)/£225 (family)/£25 (child) T: 08450 090246 W: www.sunrisefestivals.co.uk WOMAD £145 (adult)/free (child under 13) W: www.womad.co.uk Wychwood Festival £120 (adult)/£55 (child 10-15).free (under 10s) T: 01993 772580 W: www.wychwoodfestival.com
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Hello Kids!
Thank you so much for your wonderful pictures of winter fun. The standard was particularly high, so don’t worry if your entry didn’t get published. Try again and hopefully you’ll have better luck next time. This Easter I have teamed up with our friends at The ss Great Britain, who have very kindly offered a family ticket to three lucky artists who send me their best painting of The ss Great Britain crew putting to sea (see our News story on Page 38 for inspiration). 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. Have fun!
Arty
Arty Barty
Last issue, I asked you to send in your pictures of ‘Merlin the Octopus and his friends’. Well done to the three winners who receive an annual family pass to Bristol Aquarium. r, 4, Imogen Grange School, Preshute Primary Wiltshire tor Imogen Regular contribu n with the has gone to tow scene and sy glitter in this bu stand out. the results reallythe smiling I especially like . jellyfish
Alice Richards, 4, Ashton Keynes Primary School, Swindon, Wiltshire I love Merlin’s rainbow-coloured tentacles and sparkling eyelashes in this impressive drawing from young Alice.
Hermione Lloyds Bus sell, 7, St. Sampson’s Infant Sch ool, Cricklade, Wiltshire A lot of effort has clea snapshot of underwater rly gone into this life. lines used to convey ripp I like the different les in the water.
WINNER!
Hempsted CofE Adam Saunders, 10, psted, Gloucester Primary School, Hem intricately drawn Captivating colours and aquatic scene to life. bubbles really bring this
WINNER!
Xanthe 4, St Barn , Bristol abas Primary School, Striking colo s and generous brush strokesurdr the eye into this vibrant painaw ting by talented Xanthe.
Gracie Hall, 5, Tredworth Infant School, Gloucester Paying homage to Bruce, the shark in ‘Finding Nemo’, this colourful crayon drawing is framed by plenty of bobbing jellyfish!
Anna Lloyd, 8, School, Bristol Elmlea Infant
Set upon a beautiful blu ground, creative cut-ou e backts have been glued on to give the real depth, in all senses image word! I also like the fem of the ale version of Merlin, Merlina!
WINNER!
y Down Primary Dylan Peters, 9, Ashle School, Bristol showing a crafty crab hid
An excellent drawing opus. Lots of thought has WINNER! ing from Merlin the Oct s and the location of the our col rich the into e gon sneaky crab.
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Amy Passarelli, 9, Mead Vale Primary School, Weston-superMare This advanced drawing is full of colour and intricate details such as Merlin’s twisting tentacles! Goofy wheezing fish provide bubbles of precocious humour.
PRIMARY TIMES
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g y
s
& apps Alex Saunders reviews the new releases.
Barking up the right tree Devised and written by Christine Pritchard, this light-hearted interactive children’s book and application follows the mischievous exploits of Ben, part Labrador, part collie dog and his friend Special Rat in their second outing together. With beautifully rendered animations by Peter Froome and a playful story line that unpacks a box full of surprises, it’s sure to be a hit with children aged 3-7. This iOS based e-publication (an android version is available later in the year) contains 70 seconds of video footage from the printed book, first released in 2012, and plays out through a series of stimulating chapters. Interactive sections are marked with a paw symbol, which are not always obvious to spot, therefore requiring young readers to be attentive and observant to fully appreciate the engaging story. An original music score accompanies the adventure offering an absorbing activity for the 21st century child. The Adventures of Ben Labra d’Ollie - Ben and the Box of Surprises by Christine Pritchard, Wild Country Lane Studios, £2.99, www. ben-labradollie.com
Licensed to Quill
Library adventures
This visually stimulating, pocket-sized book from Wendy Meddour is the perfect stepping stone for young readers wishing to bridge the gap between picture books and children’s novels. Progressing through three acts that plot the amusing high jinks of the endearing protagonist, Wendy Quill, playful language and engaging storylines will go down a treat with girls aged 7+. The pages are bursting at the seams with eyecatching fonts and quirky illustrations by the author’s extremely talented daughter Mina May (who is only 11!), while a genuine sense of humour links the silly tales together. Although aimed at younger readers, there’s plenty of observational jokes in this book that parents will relate to. Fans of Liz Pichon’s Tom Gates character, portrayed in a similar style, will love this, the first in a new series that will keep inquisitive minds coming back for more.
Effortlessly fusing magic and adventure with time-travelling thrills, The Palace Library will be eagerly pounced upon by children who loved Harry Potter or the Chronicles of Narnia. Three children unexpectedly discover a remarkable library and armed with the magical books it contains, they embark on a fast-paced adventure back in time. Their immersive quest brings them into contact with a fantasy world populated with dragons, a mythical sword and an ancient prophecy that can only be fulfilled by the power of reading. A strong opening chapter in a series of books for the 8-12 age range, the story promotes values of friendship and the importance of working together. The central characters (Grace, Eleanor and Harry) are likable resulting in readers genuinely caring about their well-being as they journey though the mythical Tolkieninspired realm that Loveridge has so elegantly crafted.
Wendy Quill is a Crocodile’s Bottom by Wendy Meddour, Oxford University Press, £5.99, www.oup.com
The Palace Library by Steven Loveridge, self-published, £6.99, www.stevenloveridge.com
Dakkar rally From the same imaginative mind that brought us 2011’s Waterstones Children’s Book Prize winner ‘Mortlock’, Monster Odyssey follows young Prince Dakkar, heir to an Indian Kingdom, as he ventures into a fantastical world populated by sinister spies and gargantuan underwater monsters. Elegantly written chapters burst with lucid imagery while the humorous dialogue between the young prince and the enigmatic Count Oginski serves as a lighthearted reprieve from the enticingly dark and macabre plot. Perfect for children aged 9+, this visually striking book can be read as a bedtime story or independently by adventure-hungry youngsters. Monster Odyssey: The Eye of Neptune by Jon Mayhew, Bloomsbury, £6.99, www.bloomsbury.com
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Nature and nurture Covering a wide range of animals and environmental topics in their content, this educational and visually-led series from National Geographic allows children to improve their reading abilities through a staged process. Starting at Level 1, books on frogs, dinosaurs and caterpillars (to name but a few), set young children on the path to reading, with each subsequent level offering longer sentences and more challenging vocabulary until they are ready to read independently. Illustrated with stunning photographs and jam-packed with fun facts and figures, young children can collect the whole series and learn a great deal in the process! National Geographic Kids by various, National Geographic, £7.99 each, www.kids.nationalgeographic.com
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Classifieds Baby massage
Horse Riding
Help for babies with sleeping, colic and teething problems Meet other parents
Wapley Riding Stables
Blissful Bambinos Baby Massage Karen Dawson 07968 526271 £5 disc 01275 849780 with ount this dawsonkaren@yahoo.com advert
Gifts
Party Ideas COMEDY MAGIC to enhance your event!
Riding Lessons for all ages and abilities
Magic workshops for older children
• 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
Call for free information pack
01934 418 184
www.richard-ballinger.co.uk Insured and CRB checked
Party Ideas
Holidays
2 hours of fun filled games and dancing, sweets, prizes and much more
enquiries@wapleystables.co.uk www.wapleystables.co.uk Bristol Camper Van Hire with 4/5 berth VW campers for holidays, festivals and weddings. All vans have three point seat belts for any child seat and we provide a luxury family friendly service with fresh bedding and towels, cooking and eating equipment, tea and coffee, tables and chairs and much more. See photos and more details at www.katyscampers.com Tel: 0117 9714025 katy@katyscampers.com
Dance
www.childrens-disco-parties.co.uk Tel: 01275 474 976 Mobile: 07890 744 295 Email: chris@childrens-disco-parties.co.uk
Wapley Hill, Westerleigh, Bristol. BS37 8RJ 01454 321583 or 07860530199
Martial Arts HANHAM & DOWNEND TAEKWON-DO
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
Tel: 0117 908 1291 www.ezzomagic.co.uk
(please quote Primary Times)
Mobile paint your
www.vstage.co.uk 07896 664 330 VStage is for Singing, Dancing and Acting lessons and takes place at Mangotsfield Secondary School (BS16 9LH). Vickys Dance & Fitness (www.vickysdance.com) also offer a range of dance classes for boys and girls as well as Pilates for adults.
Gymnastics
own ceramics workshop
Nursery Music, Lights, Magic, Games, bubbles but most of all....FUN!!
Honey Tots Day Nursery 21 - 23 Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3PY • Warm caring atmosphere • A clean safe environment • Right in the heart of the city • Ages 3 months - 5 years
• Opening hours: 8am - 6pm • Meals catered • 3 - 5 year old funded places available
TEL: 01275 880 427 MOB: 0779 695 8164 EMAIL: thediscoco@hotmail.co.uk WEB:www.thediscocosouthwest.co.uk Follow us on facebook
ENROLLING NOW FOR GYMNASTICS AND TRAMPOLINE COURSES
Tel: 07412 238 324
Parties In Nature www.partiesinnature.co.uk
Parties with Bricks
Limited places!! Please contact Farah Khan - Nursery Manager honeytotsdaynursery@yahoo.co.uk 0117 924 3100
www.partieswithbricks.co.uk
call Alexandra: 07982 198195
Opticians Dyslexia? Reading difficulties? Visual Stress?
Kingswood Foundation BS15 8DB
H Childrens birthday parties H Babies hands + feet impressions H Mother + Toddler groups, Brownies H School fundraising events
www.bryanthemagician.co.uk
‘Stop the words moving’ We provide colour overlays and coloured glasses
FOR PRE-SCHOOL/JUNIORS AND TEENAGERS 1-1 REBOUND THERAPY SESSIONS BIRTHDAY PARTIES AND FUN SESSIONS HOLIDAY FUN SESSIONS Tuesday and Friday 10.00 am – 3.00pm
191 Redland Road Bristol BS6 6XP
Phone 0117 947 6449 e-mail: admin@kingswood-gymnastics.co.uk Visit our new website at www.kingswoodgymnastics.co.uk
Call us on 0117 9735600 Family friendly and here to help
36 MAY HALF TERM 2013
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Book now for FREE bouncy castle hire Limited period only
PRIMARY TIMES
5/7/2013 1:03:24 PM
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
2013 Summer Swim school Crime scene investigation parties and workshops for children age 7+ tel 0117 244 0053 web www.thedetectiveproject.co.uk
10 half hour lessons mornings 9am – 1pm 29th July – 9th August (week days only) Children 5yrs & over in small classes. Non swimmer, improver & A.S.A. awards. Bookings by telephone 0117 9737245 (9am-6pm) www.cliftonswimschool.com
TUTORING
LEARNING SUCCESS FOR ALL • Literacy & Maths 5-11 yr olds • Preparation for SATs & Common Entrance • Help with Dyslexia
Tel: JENNY MADDERN 07905 802267 jenny@discoverylearning.co.uk
Making swimming lessons fun for all abilities
Clifton:
Rugby
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: The UK’s first rugby specific play programme for young children. Rugbytots ® is a weekly play programme for boys and girls aged 2 to 7. Separated into 3 age groups, Rugbytots® combines the multiple skills used in rugby with a fun, energetic and structured play programme. Expanding rapidly, we currently have weekday & after school classes throughout Bristol, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset.
New Class for 5 to 7 yr olds in Downend, Saturdays: 10.35am Rugbytots birthday parties from £7 per head. All Rugbytots lead coaches are RFU qualified, first aid trained and CRB checked.
For further information please call 0845 313 3250 rob@rugbytots.co.uk www.rugbytots.co.uk
Tuesday Evening: Advanced Lane Classes Wednesday: Non swimmer to Improvers Sunday All Day: All abilities Register online: www.splash-happy.co.uk Email: hazel@splash-happy.co.uk Tel: 0117 979 8266
Tuition Learn the Harmonica at school - it’s fun, cheap, cool and easy. Press the red button at www.HarpsCool.co.uk Harmonica themed Birthday Parties ‘Wow, that’s different!’ 07599 561514 info@harpscool.co.uk
Swimming
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 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
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.
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
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COMPETITION
WIN TICKETS TO
TREEFEST, WESTONBIRT
W
Pic: Jamie Koster
ould you and your family like to take part in a celebration of nature, trees and woodcraft this summer, absolutely free? If so, the Forestry Commission’s National Arboretum at Westonbirt, Gloucestershire, is offering a pair of free adult tickets to its wonderful Treefest this August (kids go free anyway). The three day event from Sat 24-Mon 26 August promises over 100 exhibitors, a food hall packed with delicious produce and the chance to try out traditional woodworking methods in the expanded Working
Woodlands area. Sculptors will create pieces inspired by fairytales in demonstrations of ‘big carving’, while families can follow a trail around the festival packed with storytellers, puppet theatre, falconry and a new attraction, The Welsh Axemen. Plus there’s live music by local bands every evening. To enter, visit the competition entry website and answer the simple question you find there. Entry is via the Primary Times website only and terms and conditions are posted online. COMPETITION ENTRY WEBSITE www.primarytimes.net/ competitions_avon.php Ffi: Treefest Sat 24-Mon 26 August, National Arboretum, Westonbirt, Gloucestershire. Tickets £10 (adult)/£8 (concs)/ £24 (weekend). Advance tickets save up to 20 per cent on gate prices and are available from the Forestry Commission box office. T: 03000 680400 or W: www. forestry.gov.uk/westonbirttreefest
GIVE CHILDREN WITH AUTISM A BETTER BREAK, SAYS CHARITY
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roviding more structured activities for autistic children at break time could help protect them from bullying at school, says the Anti-Bullying Alliance (ABA). A national survey by the charity shows that 42.4% of autistic children tell their parents they are often bullied in school, while 97% of parents and carers feel that their autistic children are at risk of bullying. The survey results form part of a national campaign launched in April by the ABA, working with the National Children’s Bureau and Tesco Mum of the Year 2013, Anna Kennedy. The campaign calls on all schools and colleges to be particularly aware of the bullying that children with autism experience at break times and to provide positive activities that
keep them safe. This action will be welcomed by respondents of the survey, says ABA, with over half the parents stating that ‘structured activities’ are seriously lacking at break times in schools. Lauren Seager-Smith, national coordinator of ABA says, “For children and young people with autism, break and lunch times in schools and colleges can be particularly daunting and can put them at risk of bullying. Too often these children are seen as the problem; as not ‘fitting in’ or ‘settling down’. We want to see all schools take decisive action to create environments and cultures where all children feel safe and supported without fear of bullying.’’ W: www.anti-bullyingalliance.org
A ‘BEAR-ILLIANT’ IDEA
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ANCHORS AWEIGH ON NEW PARTNERSHIP
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he ss Great Britain has launched a scheme to attract 8,000 school children to the iconic Bristol attraction over the next three years. ‘Museums and Schools’, a project supported by the Arts Council of England, is part of a national initiative trying to increase school pupils’ engagement with culture. Partnering with the Science Museum in London, the ss Great Britain will welcome schools as part of the project from this May. The attraction’s education team will work with local schools to engage children in their final year of primary school and their first year of secondary school through group workshops and self- led activities at the famous vessel. Pupils involved in the project will have the chance
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to learn about the history of the ship’s designer, Isambard Kingdom Brunel and his engineering talents, as well as the story of the ship and what life was like on board for passengers and crew. Rhian Tritton, director of education and conservation, ss Great Britain Trust says, “This is a unique and exciting partnership, which aims to help pupils avoid a dip in their performance at school by supporting them during the difficult period of moving from primary to secondary education.” Ultimately, she hopes, the time the pupils spend visiting Brunel’s ss Great Britain will spark their curiosity and help encourage in them a lifelong passion for culture and learning. Ffi: W: www.ssgreatbritain.org
verybody’s favourite bear is putting his charity hat on this May and June to raise support for Action Medical Research, which funds vital medical research into conditions affecting babies and children. Primary schools throughout the country will take part in the annual ‘Bring your Bear’ event and this year it couldn’t be easier for schools to get their pupils involved. Just choose a day in May or June when children can bring their teddy or a favourite soft toy with them to school. Each child brings in a £2 donation with their bear to support vital research. Many ‘Bring your Bear’ participants organise a whole day of fun activities, such as reading Paddington stories, holding a teddy bears’ picnic or baking bear-shaped biscuits. Children can also take part in a drawing competition with a chance to win a visit from Paddington himself. Every school that registers will receive a free fundraising pack, including a poster and Paddington
stickers, and access to an online toolkit full of useful materials. Jemma Jones, event organiser at Action Medical Research, says: “‘Bring your Bear’ is all about putting the fun into fundraising and is the perfect event to get children excited about helping others. Every year we get fantastic feedback about what the children have got up to. Please join in and help us – and, of course, Paddington – make 2013 a ‘bear-illiant’ year.” Ffi: W: www.action.org.uk/bringyourbear PRIMARY TIMES
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Broadlands Academy, Keynsham opened in December 2012 and the new Principal, Dean Anderson, is working to bring about outstanding learning. As part of the Academies Enterprise Trust we are working to secure a bright and exciting future for our learners.
If you would like to find out more, whether your child is in Year 6 or in Years 7 – 11, and wishes to join us, please contact the Academy. Tel: 0117 9864791 Email: contactus@broadlandsacademy.org
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