rima ry ptimes
for parents, teachers & children
11 12 1 yrs
2 3 4 yrs
in Gloucestershire Issue 122 24 May-24 Jul 2013
Cycling special Father’s Day Local festivals
Flying the flag Families get nautical at Gloucester’s Tall Ships Festival. Page 4 Arty Barty • Theatre • Roundabout • Save money! 13 Glos Cover May 2013.indd 2
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THEATRE P8 ROUNDABOUT P11 PINBOARD P17 ADVERTISING FEATURES P18 CLASSIFIEDS P20 PUPILS’ PAGE P22
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. See our feature on Page 6 for ideas to get parents and children cycling in Gloucestershire . As a dad myself, I had no objection when the PT team suggested a Father’s Day feature (P.16). There may be some unsubtle reading hints at home soon. And look out for our essential guide to local festivals (P.21). Have a great half term!
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& children teachers for parents,
11 12 1
WHEEL PASSION P6
Alex Saunders explores Gloucestershire’s cycleways and bike events.
DADDY COOL P16
Make Dad feel special this Father’s Day
SOUNDS OF THE SUMMER P21
You don’t have to travel far to enjoy family festival thrills with this guide to local events.
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VIEW THE MAGAZINE ONLINE AT www.venue.co.uk/early-times-primary-times www.primarytimes.net • www.facebook.com - Arty Barty
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Primary Times in Gloucestershire 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 Berkeley Skirmish – under 5’s free Cotswold Farm Park – half term offer: one child free with a paying adult Dick Whittington Farm Park – one adult goes free with a paying child Westonbirt Treefest – kids go free
WIN TICKETS TO TREEFEST
W
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 Treefest this August to the winner of this competition. (Kids go free). To enter, visit the competition entry website and answer the simple question you find there. Entry is via the Primary Times website only:
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/westonbirt-treefest
COMPETITION ENTRY WEBSITE
www.primarytimes.net/ competitions_gloucestershire.php
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GLOUCESTE R TALL SHIPS FESTIVAL
advertising
Gloucester D ocks Fri 24-Mon 2 7 May gloucesterta llships. co.uk
Flying the flag Visit the Gloucester Tall Ships Festival over the Spring Bank Holiday Weekend and enjoy a great day out for the whole family.
T
he award-winning Gloucester Tall Ships Festival, organised by Marketing Gloucester, has firmly established itself as a leading festival in the south west and a must-see event in the Cotswolds calendar. This year’s event, which takes place over the Spring Bank Holiday weekend from Friday 24 – Monday 27 May, will see a flotilla of sailing vessels make a grand entrance into the UK’s most inland port via the Gloucester Sharpness Canal at around 12 noon on Friday 24 May. The Tall Ships Festival is free to attend and appeals to visitors of all ages, making it a great day out for the whole family. Besides the tall ships, there will be plenty to see and do including steam traction engines, on-water Viking battles, live entertainment, family activities, a wide variety of arts, crafts and food stalls plus Captain Jack Sparrow and his band of pirates. In addition, the Gloucester Waterways Museum, the Soldiers
of Gloucestershire Museum and the outlet shopping at Gloucester Quays are all based around Gloucester’s historic docks. Visitors to the festival on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 May can purchase a wristband for £5 which, besides allowing access onto the tall ships, will also provide admission into
“It’s fitting the festival should take place against the stunning backdrop of Gloucester’s docks” both the Gloucester Waterways and Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museums. Children under 16 can board the Tall Ships for free and enjoy free admission at both museums when accompanied by an adult wearing a wristband. Ships confirmed for this year’s festival include the magnificent brigantine, Phoenix, with its square-rigged foremast; the Amazon, which took part in the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Pageant
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last year; the Ruth, a gaff-rigged sailing ship, the replica of John Cabot’s Matthew and the traditional rigged French ship, La Belle Angèle. Visitors to this year’s Tall Ships Festival may also catch a glimpse of the mighty Kaskelot: a ship which featured in the 2009 Tall Ships Festival and which is currently undergoing a re-fit at T. Nielsen’s boatyard in Gloucester Docks before she embarks on a round the world voyage. It seems fitting that a Tall Ships Festival should take place against the stunning backdrop of Gloucester’s historic docks with its rich heritage. The perfectly restored lofty warehouses which line the waterfront provide the ideal backdrop for a Tall Ships Festival, while the colourful characters on the docks help to bring
history to life and inspire children’s imagination. The inaugural Gloucester Tall Ships Festival was organised by Marketing Gloucester Limited in 2007 to lift the spirits of local residents following the devastating floods which hit the city and the county. The event went on to win a ‘silver’ award in South West Tourism’s best event category, enhancing its reputation and attracting more visitors to the 2009 and 2011 festivals. The Gloucester Tall Ships Festival runs from Friday 24 to Monday 27 May 2013. Ffi: www.gloucestertallships.co.uk
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A working trout farm set in the beautiful Cotswold village of Bibury
• Catch your own trout all equipment provided • Quality Gift Shop • Cafe • Free Car Park • Play Area Free Child with full paying adult on production of this advert. Expires 31/12/13
Pick Your Own this summer at First ‘pick your own’ strawberries ready very soon Open 7 days a week Primrose Vale Farm Shop Shurdington Rd, Bentham, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 4UA Tel: 01452 863359 Email: info@primrosevale.com Web: www.primrosevale.com Please confirm fruit availability by phone, at primrosevale.com or at facebook.com/primrosevalefarmshop
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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, Gloucestershire 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. Cyclists in Gloucestershire are fortunate to have the Forest of Dean, a cycling paradise, on their doorsteps, with several businesses offering bike hire to traverse the forest’s extraordinary range of tracks. Family-run Dean Forest
“The Forest of Dean is unique as you’ve got everything from nice flat, traffic-free paths that you can teach your kids ride on to fullon downhill courses that attract world champions.” The forest paths are all the safer with the addition of a new Cycle Bridge, which removes a dangerous road crossing, while the new investment sees eight beginners’ skills areas installed along the path offering training sections to increase children’s confidence on two wheels. A range of cycling events take place in Gloucestershire and surrounding regions, this summer, so pump up the tyres, ring the bell and set off down the road to healthy living.
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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Cycles, in the village of Park End at the heart of the forest, boasts a well-stocked cycling shop and a fleet of around 100 bikes that caters to riders of all ages and experience. “The Forest of Dean is becoming more popular, from a cycling point of view,” says Angela Clayton, co-founder of the company. Besides the more extreme single tracks that carve through the trees, the leisurely 12 mile Family Cycle Trail has proved popular
with families for over 15 years now. Easily accessible from Dean Forest Cycles, the path runs along a disused railway line that ascends gradual gradients and over gentle hills. “There are a few nice places to stop off and picnic on the way round,” says Angela. “It’s a really nice cycle ride for families.” At nearby Cannop, ‘Peddleabikeaway’ has been in business since 1987, refreshed by its new owner Ian Officer. “Mountain biking, particularly in the Forest of Dean, has become increasingly popular,” says Ian, who puts this down to two factors. “One was £0.5m of European grant money spent on new trails, the other the success of British cycling in both the Beijing and London Olympics. Cycling is really on the crest of a wave at the moment.” Peddleabikeaway has equipment for younger riders while also hiring out wheelchair bikes and hand-cranked wheelchairs for disabled riders.
Sustrans W: www.sustrans.org.uk Dean Forest Cycles W: www. deanforestcycles.co.uk Pedalabikeaway W: www.pedalabikeaway.co.uk
EVENTS 19 May Nelson Trust Sponsored Family Bike Ride at Berkeley Castle Estate Yard 2 June Castle Combe Cycling Festival 14 Jun Dino-tour cycle treasure hunt along the Bristol and Bath railway path. 16 June LINC 3 Counties Cycle Ride (See Roundabout for full details)
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FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SHOWS ★ GLOUCESTER, CHELTENHAM, STROUD & BEYOND
GLOUCESTERSHIRE 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 openair 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. It’s the perfect family picnic adventure. This event is part of the open-air festival in the Tuckwell Amphitheatre. EVERYMAN THEATRE Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573, www.everymantheatre.org.uk James and the Giant Peach Tue 21 May-Sat 25 May. Tue 7pm, Wed 10.30am & 7pm, Thu 2pm & 7pm, Fri 10.30am-7pm, Sat 2pm & 7pm. Price TBC (call box office for details 01242 572573) • The Birmingham Stage Company brings Roald Dahl’s amazing story to the stage. 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. Gloucestershire Dance Festival Tue 9 Jul. 4pm, 6pm and 7.30pm. £10 • The Gloucestershire Dance festival is a celebration of the work taking place in local schools in the field of dance. 8 MAY HALF TERM 2013
13Michaela Glos Theatre listings MayReally 2013.indd Strachan’s Wild8 Adventures,
THE PLAYHOUSE THEATRE 47-53 Bath Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. 01242 522852, www.playhousecheltenham.org Come Camp With Me Sat 1 Jun. 2pm & 7pm. £7/£5 (concessions) • Performed by 55 members of Cleeve Youth Theatre this innovative play narrates the Swift family’s holiday at Sunnyvale Campsite. The Devon Hills hold secrets of sweet love, bitter rivalry and scheming trickery that will all come out during this imaginative play. Finding Joy Fri 19 Jul. 7.45pm. £12/£10/£8 • Suitable for ages 12+, Vamos Theatre creates innovative full mask productions that utilise talented musicians and puppeteers. THE ROSES THEATRE Sun Street, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire GL20 5NX. 01684 295074, www.rosestheatre.org Bugsy Malone Tue 2 Jul-Thu 4 Jul. 7pm. £9/£7 • Romance is in the air and Blousey Brown dreams of travelling to Hollywood with Bugsy Malone to make the ‘Big Time’. However all is not well at Fat Sam’s Grand Slam. Varmints Fri 14 Jun. 7pm • Travelling Light Theatre presents this acclaimed dance theatre production documenting a small creature’s struggle for survival, faced with the march of progress. SUNDIAL THEATRE Stroud Road, Cirencester, GL7 1XA. 01285 654228, www.sundialtheatre.co.uk Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland Sat 22 Jun – Sun 23 Jun. Sat 7pm. Sun 2pm. £10/£7.50 • Cotswold Stage School invites young audiences down the rabbit hole. The Spooky Men’s Chorale Sun 21 Jul. 7.30pm. £16 (adult)/£10 (child) • Booming vocals, deadpan comedy and harmonious voices come together in this bizarre but hilarious show that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
FURTHER AFIELD THE BRISTOL HIPPODROME Saint Augustine’s Parade, Bristol BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012, www. bristolhippodrome.org.uk 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 best-
James and the Giant Peach, Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, 21-25 May.
known 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. 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. THE BRISTOL OLD VIC King Street, BS1 4ED. 0117 987 7877, www.bristololdvic.org.uk 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 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 EGG Theatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath BA1 1ET. 01225 448844, www.theatreroyal.org.uk 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. 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. 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. PRIMARY TIMES
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ROUNDABOUT Your ultimate family diary of what’s on, where & when
Deadlines: List your school’s autumn 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 LAND ROVER SAFARIS AT SLIMBRIDGE Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, GL2 7BT. 01453 891900, www.wwt.org.uk/visit/ slimbridge, 11.30am and 2pm, £5 (adult)/£3 (child) excluding normal admission charges • Throughout the summer, nature lovers from across Gloucestershire have the opportunity to head off in search of wildlife, wading birds and a horde of interesting insects in their natural habitat. ONGOING OTTER TALK Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, GL2 7BT. 01453 891900, www.wwt.org.uk/visit/ slimbridge, 11.30am-3.30pm every day, included in admission price • Meet Flo, Minnie and Ha Ha, Slimbridge Wetland Centre’s adorable family of otters, and listen to a talk as they tuck into their tasty fish supper. ONGOING TOAD HALL TALK Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, GL2 7BT. 01453 891900, www.wwt.org.uk/visit/ slimbridge, 11.30am-3.30pm every day, admission charges apply • Hop down to Toad Hall and hear amphibians expert Jay Redbond tell you all about the world of amphibians. For the brave, there will be opportunities to hold frogs, newts and toads, and ask any questions you’ve ever had about our slimy friends. ONGOING MESS AROUND Various Gloucestershire venues. PRIMARY TIMES
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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.
Adam Henson, presenter of BBC’s Countryfile, gives sheep sheering demonstrations at Cotswold Farm Park until Sun 30 June
01242 210411/07927 518280, www. mess-around.co.uk, see website for times, £5.50, booking required by phone or carol@mess-around. co.uk • Aimed at children aged six months to four years old, these creative arts and crafts sessions allow toddlers to be as messy as they want. 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+ 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.
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 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 3 NOV MILKING DEMONSTRATIONS Cotswold Farm Park, Guiting Power, nr. Cheltenham, Glos. GL54 5UG, see website for times and prices • Discover where your 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 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
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,
SAT 18 MAY HAPPY’S CIRCUS Fairford Primary School, Leafield Road, The Park, Fairford, Gloucestershire, GL7 4JQ. 01285 712543 or Clare on 07765683974 for tickets, www.fairford.gloucs. sch.uk, 1.30pm, £10 (adult)/£8 (child) • Food and drink available from 12.30pm and show starts at 2pm. Under 3s go free but must sit on a parent’s lap. 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. See feature, Page 4. FRI 24 MAY-MON 27 MAY CHIPPENHAM FOLK FESTIVAL Chippenham Folk Festival, The Cause music and Arts Centre, The Causeway, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 3DD. 01249 657190, www.chippfolk.co.uk, £97 (adult)/£48.50 (youth) • Returning for its 42nd year, over
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Fifty Fabulous Frocks at the Fashion Museum, Bath, runs throughout the year
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ROUNDABOUT a family on the banks of the river Severn. Join the wardens as they aim to show you some of the more special species such as redshank, lapwing, song birds plus many more. 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. Downy Duckling Days, Slimbridge, 25 May - 2 Jun
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200 events will be taking place in the Cause Centre, turning the whole town into a giant party. SAT 25 MAY TUDOR BIRDS OF PREY DAY John Moore Museum, 41 Church Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5SN. www.johmooremuseum.org, 10am & 2pm, £3 (adult)/£2.50 (seniors/ students)/£2 (child)/£8 (family) • Learn all about how important birds of prey were to the Tudors and meet a Kestrel, a Buzzard, a Peregrine Falcon, a Barn Owl and an Eagle Owl. 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–SUN 2 JUN DOWNY DUCKLING DAYS Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, GL2 7BT. 01453 891900, www.wwt.org.uk/visit/ 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.’ SUN 26 MAY BIRDWATCH MORNING Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, GL2 7BT. 01453 891900, www.wwt.org.uk/visit/ slimbridge, 7.30am, £15 • Spring is a magical time on the reserve with many birds settling down to raise 12
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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.
PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES! about the ancient art of weaving and create your own woven object in this unusual and wonderful workshop. 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. 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-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. Pyronaut served in Bristol from 1934 until 1973, working particularly hard in the Blitz in 1940-41. 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
Father’s Day at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Sat 15 Jun
a wealth of interesting photographs and maps. 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. SUN 9 JUN OPEN FARM SUNDAY Billow Farm, Breadstone, Berkeley, Gloucestershire, GL13 9HF. 01453 810242, www.farmsunday.org, 10.30am-4.30pm, free • Billow Farm opens its doors to visitors this month, for an exciting opportunity to meet the farmers and all the animals that you love. 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, 10am5pm, free • Bringing together 150 organisations, this claims to be the UK’s largest free natural history event, giving wildlife enthusiasts
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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/bristolmuseum-and-art-gallery, 11am3pm, free • Get your hands on real Egyptian objects and take part in Egyptian-themed activities. 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 PRIMARY TIMES
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Does your Child lack Confidence & Self Esteem? Do they find it difficult to cope with the Pressure & Demands of School? Do they need a little extra help with Arithmetic, Writing & Reading (up to GCSE higher tier)? Specialised in helping children with learning difficulties and school ‘phobia’. Background in Rudolf Steiner Education and Speech Therapy.
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PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES! »
25th anniversary and the site has been extended with over 50 attractions including motorcycle teams and the National Festival Circus.
of all ages the chance to explore the natural world through hands-on activities and live entertainment. SUN 16 JUN THREE COUNTIES CYCLE RIDE Tewkesbury Rugby Club. www.lincfund.org, 8am-4pm, £10 (adult)/£5 (child 12-16) • With two routes available of 64km and 32km, this event is suitable for older children who are keen to do a full day of riding.
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 13 beautiful princesses is brought to life. 7+
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.
Royal International Air Tattoo, Fairford, 20-21 Jul
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.
takeover of Bristol’s iconic Park Street sees 1,000 local children and parents playing games on the road during the car free day.
FRI 21 JUN LAKESIRE PRIMARY SCHOOL SUMMER FAYRE Hatherley Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6HR. 01242 524756, www.lakesidechelt.co.uk, 3.30pm-6.30pm, £1 entry, children free • Based around a seaside theme, this summer fayre has donkey rides, a Punch and Judy show, bouncy castle, face painting, crafts, cake stalls and BBQ. All proceeds go to Lakeside PTA to provide equipment for the children.
JULY
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
Barbury International Eventing & Show, 4-7 Jul
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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 and cafe.
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. WED 3-SUN 14 JUL CHELTENHAM MUSIC FESTIVAL (CMF) Various venues around Cheltenham. 0844 880 8094, www.cheltenhamfestivals.com • The 69th Cheltenham Music Festival kicks into action this July with a range of musical events taking place across the spa town. Events listed below are marked (CMF) WED 3-THU 4 JUL NOYE’S FLUDDE AT TEWKESBURY ABBEY (CMF) Tewkesbury Abbey, Church Street, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, GL20 5RZ. 01684 850959, www. tewkesburyabbey.org.uk, 4pm-5pm, £20/£15/£12, book online • This special production will bring together 200 local school children – singing, acting, playing and making costumes to recreate the inspiring piece of children’s music. THU 4-SUN 7 JUL THE BARBURY INTERNATIONAL EVENTING AND SHOW Marlborough, Wiltshire, SN8 1RS.
01672 516125, www.barburyhorsetrials.co.uk, all day, £18/£12 (see promotional offer below) • Offering an exciting blend of fun, food and spectacle, the trials see Olympic winners perform on a special course designed by British equestrian 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, 11am12pm, £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-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
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 • A vast array of culinary activities at what claims to be the UK’s largest celebration of food and drink. Quote discount code prim241 when purchasing tickets to get 2 for 1. SAT 13 JUL WORBEY AND FARRELL Parabola Arts Centre, Parabola Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 3AA. 01242 707338, www. parabolaartscentre.co.uk, 11am12.15pm, £8 (adult)/£5 (child), book online • Blending comedy and amazing piano skills, this wacky duo are an act like no other. 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 storytelling and song project returns with specially created new material. An interactive concert suitable for ages 7+. SAT 20-SUN 21 JUL ROYAL INTERNATIONAL AIR TATTOO RAF Fairford, Gloucestershire, GL7 4RB. 7.30am-8.30pm • A weekend of aviation excellence with displays including a seven hour flying display featuring two WW2 US planes the Lockheed P-38 Lighting and Vought F4U-4 Corsair. Also taking part are an RAF Typhoon, a Swedish Air Force Gripen, a Vulcan bomber, the Breitling Wingwalkers and the RAF Red Arrows. WED 24 AND WED 31 JUL TEDDY BEARS’ PICNIC Bird and Deer Park, Prinknash, Cranham, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL4 8EX. 01452 812727, www.thebirdpark.co.uk, 11.30am, £10 per child • Take your own teddy bear to this large picnic, offering lots of fun including feeding all the animals in the park. Booking essential.
LISTINGS BY ALEX SAUNDERS
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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
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 rac16
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Haynes’ Manuals Flying Saucers
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.
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. MiniMoto
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 Hullavington 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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ADVERTISING FEATURE
d r a o b n Pi All a-Bugsboard! Join Bugsboarding in Maisemore, Gloucestershire, for a day’s mountainboarding, grass sledging or dirt scooting. Rent the company’s kit or bring your own. Equipment rental includes a full introductory lesson by a qualified instructor. You can even take your own bike and use Bugsboarding’s dirt jumps, track and other many features. If you’re staying for lunch or having a party, the company has a large marquee with a mini skate ramp and outdoor picnic areas. Alternatively, make a weekend of it. Why not camp over in the secluded camping area at Bugsboarding? The possibilities are endless, so get along and have fun at Bugsboarding! Hire and ride price: U15’s 2 hours £15/U15s half day £22 Ffi: T: 07749 897330 W: www.bugsboarding.co.uk
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
Parents’ & teachers’
news, education & contacts
Crop ‘til you drop With more than 15 different crops to pick, from broad beans to tayberries, raspberries to gooseberries, and with a picking season from late May to October, Primrose Vale is the place in Gloucestershire to Pick Your Own (PYO). Strawberries are the first fruit ready – normally by the end of May - and crop through to October. They are all grown up on stilts, so you’ve no need to bend down. There’s more than just The PYO at Primrose Vale, though. Refreshments are served outside beside the small play area throughout the summer, so you are free to sip a cappuccino while your children play. And, of course, the farm shop is stocked with delicious home grown and local produce. There’s no entrance fee – you just pay for what you pick. In all, it’s a great value, wholesome way to spend a day. Crop availability changes through the season, so check the website or call to confirm what is picking when you want to go. Ffi: T: 01452 863359 W: www.primrosevale.com
Fish upon a star Bibury Trout Farm is primarily a working farm, breeding top quality rainbow and brown trout to supply angling waters throughout the country. Fish are sold at all stages from ova (eggs) to three kilogrammes in weight. The on-site farm shop supplies fresh and smoked trout, pate and fish cakes, as well as other local produce including bacon, yogurts etc. Smoking and food preparation is all done on site. The farm has beautiful gardens and is open all year to visitors who are fascinated by the ‘boiling’ water as the fish are fed. The beginners’ fishery (check opening hours which do vary) provides visitors an opportunity to experience the thrill of catching their own trout. The shop has gifts to suit all ages and pockets and the cafe serves delicious light lunches, cream teas, cakes etc. all home made. Picnic, BBQ and play area plus free car park. Ffi: T: 01285 740215 W: www. biburytroutfarm.co.uk
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Bluestone luxury Get away from the stresses and strains of day-to-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 interative 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
Edward Jenner School officially recognised Fantastic news for Gloucester’s new Edward Jenner School! It has achieved its Ofsted registration, which means that all its documents and planning are ready for this September. Educating and inspiring children between the ages of 7 and 14, with personalised learning, Edward Jenner School has an emphasis on core skills and an exciting integrated curriculum which makes learning happen. With planning permission now granted, the beautiful Grade II listed building at 4 Pitt Street, Gloucester, close to the cathedral, is now officially Edward Jenner School. The school’s team is thrilled to be working in such an inspiring space. Now enrolling for September, there are limited places remaining at the school, so call or email for information (they’re also on Facebook) or to book a personal tour. Ffi: T: 07546 999131 E: info.ejs@ gmail.com W: www.edwardjennerschool.org.uk
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Adver tising Feature
Samurai welcome Samurai Martial Arts classes are friendly and welcoming, with many black belt teachers helping children and adults settle into the discipline of karate and martial arts. The group’s karate clubs offer free introductory classes to help you and your family decide whether or not the sport is for you. Its programmes offer agespecific karate classes for children, teens and adults. You can begin lessons slowly or immerse yourself to gain a quicker proficiency. A comprehensive timetable allows you to choose karate classes that fit around your existing schedule within your preferred areas of Gloucester, Cheltenham, Ross-on-Wye and Tewkesbury. Parents are welcome to watch their children’s development as they learn key skills in co-ordination, balance and social-interaction, while developing confidence, control and discipline in a safe and structured environment. Exams are held every three months providing achievable goals that will see you or your child’s confidence grow as they achieve each new belt. The club has an excellent reputation for producing black-belt students regardless of age. Students start with varying degrees of skill and ability but, with guidance, they can realise their full potential. Samurai Martial Arts instructs over 150 karate students in Cheltenham, Gloucester, Tewkesbury and Ross-on-Wye and invites you to a free, no-obligation trial lesson! Ffi: W: www.samurai-martialarts.co.uk E: samuraimartialarts@ msn.com
Adver tising Feature
Improve eleven plus vocabulary in a flash Is your child in Year 4 or 5? Are you thinking about entering them for the eleven plus entrance examination? To succeed in a verbal reasoning paper, a well-developed vocabulary is essential. Welcome to Farquhar’s Vocabulary Flash Cards – specifically created to improve your child’s verbal reasoning skills and ultimately help them succeed in the eleven plus. The competitive nature of the examination can make it a stressful time for both children and parents. These carefully selected words have been collated from recognised eleven plus material and will build confidence and vocabulary knowledge at the level tested in the examination. Flash cards are a powerful learning tool; simple and versatile. Used regularly, they will boost both confidence and results. They are available as a pack of four sets, building a bank of challenging vocabulary, synonyms, antonyms and compound words. They’re easily portable in small sets, perfect for vocabulary practice on the go. They can be used in many ways – as classic flash cards, stuck up as words of the week, or a tool to make up your own games to challenge your friends and family. An invaluable time-saving resource for busy parents. Level 1 – Confidence building Level 2 - Serious about vocabulary Opposites – Synonyms and antonyms New Compound Set – following demand from tutors, teachers and parents, Farquhar has released a new set of compound words. Ffi: www.vocabularyflashcards. co.uk
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My mate, primate Lemur Week 25 – 31 May 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
Catch those Varmints! Following their acclaimed successes of ‘Boing!’ and ‘Ali Baba & The Forty Thieves’, Travelling Light Theatre Company travels to The Roses Theatre in Tewkesbury with its latest production for young audiences, ‘Varmints’, this June. An exhilarating new dancetheatre performance, visually stunning and rich in narrative, Varmints explores the struggles of one small creature to preserve a world in danger of being lost forever, a world which is buried under the relentless march of progress. Directed by Sally Cookson, who specialises in children’s theatre, ‘Varmints’ is a beautiful and entertaining theatrical experience for families to enjoy together, exploring how the world’s environment is changing. The show gives parents the opportunity to treat their little ones to an exciting evening at the theatre. And, with ecological awareness high on the school agenda, you can support the subjects that they explore in the classroom at the same time. Told through a combination of theatre and dance, you will be struck by the tones, textures and sounds which emanate from ‘Varmints’’ imaginary world. Its rich land of colour, deep emotion and stunning movement enables the beauty of the story to sweep families along on a journey that resembles a little nugget of gold. Travelling Light’s ‘Varmints’ visits The Roses Theatre on Friday 14 June, at 7pm. Ffi: T: 01684 295074 W: www.rosestheatre.org
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Classifieds Art & Crafts
Swimming
BIGWAVESWIMSCHOOL Dean Close School Pool, Cheltenham
START SUMMER TERM 2013 WITH A SPLASH and join our ASA Swim school Enrolling now for EASTER CRASH COURSES and April Term 2013
Kids weekly sewing club, crafty parties and seasonal workshops For ages 6-12 years Based in Cheltenham Get creative this Easter with Kids Sewing Workshops 26-27th March Web www.craftymiss.co.uk Email info@craftymiss.co.uk
Children’s classes Sundays 8.30-1pm Mon/Thurs 7-8pm. Parent/Toddler, Beginner, Improver groups, ASA Badge Scheme. ASA-qualified friendly teachers, small groups. Adult Swim-a-long and classes Thurs 8pm
Tel Marian 07887 422232 Karen 07810 296130 email bigwaveswim@yahoo.co.uk www.bigwaveswimschool.co.uk
Tuition Cooking
FUN & EDUCATIONAL COOKERY CLASSES FOR CHILDREN
• Qualified Experienced Teacher • English, Maths, Verbal reasoning • Booster Lessons English & Maths
• Preparation for Grammar School Entrance • Individual or Group Tuition • To any level
Next classes on 23rd October 2012 Please visit website for details www.so-tasty.co.uk info@so-tasty.co.uk Tel: 01242 587248 07798 635312
Fancy Dress Hire Infant and junior clubs Pre-school sessions Parent & toddler sessions www.fun-languages.co.uk Contact Sylvie on 01242 513072
Longlevens Tuition
Party Ideas
Helping Primary Children with Maths & English Skills. Preliminary Screening for Dyslexia & Dyscalculia. Summer Holiday Lessons Available Mrs Manley, NNEB, BSc (Hons) PGCE.
Gloucester (01452) 387228
10% off a giant cupcake when you book your party with the advert 20 MAY HALF TERM 2013
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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 . . .
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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
. . . music by night at Wychwood Festival
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Arty Barty
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. 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
Last issue, I asked you to send in your pictures of ‘Merlin the Octopus and his friends’. Well done to the winner who receives 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.
WINNER!
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.
Hempsted CofE Adam Saunders, 10, psted, Gloucester Primary School, Hem intricately drawn Captivating colours and aquatic scene to life. bubbles really bring this
& 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
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Licensed to Quill 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 eye-catching 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. Wendy Quill is a Crocodile’s Bottom by Wendy Meddour, Oxford University Press, £5.99, www.oup.com
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