Wilts summer13web

i r ma ry ptimes

11 12 1 yrs

2 3 4 yrs

in Wiltshire

Issue 83 19 Jul-2 Sep 2013

Karting

crazy Also Summer days out Dance schools M4 Karting’s brand new indoor track is just the place to give your children some fast, safe fun, this summer. Page 4 Theatre • Arty Barty • Roundabout • Save money!

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Summer’s here and it’s a delight to watch the excitement of the kids as they anticipate their summer holidays.

But, once the away-break is over, delight can turn to exhaustion for parents and boredom and frustration for the children: the search for gainful and creative family activities gets more challenging with every week.

That’s where we hope to help, with a bumper Roundabout section packed with events, not to mention our Summer Days Out feature (P18). We also look at dance tuition (P6) and have a new Wordsearch for children (P28). So don’t fret when the main holiday’s over. There’s plenty to do closer to home.

a ry ptriim mes 11 12 1

THEATRE P8 ROUNDABOUT P11 PINBOARD P23 ADVERTISING FEATURES P26 PUPILS’ PAGE P28 With new Wordsearch!

CLASSIFIEDS P30 LET’S DANCE P6

Richard Hattersley salsas round the region’s dance schools, with tips for getting started.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS P18

Adventure and activities at the West Country’s attractions and beauty spots.

yrs

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the editor

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e in Wiltshir

Sep 2013 19 Jul-2 Issue 83

Karting

crazy

Also s out Summer day Dance schools

VIEW THE MAGAZINE ONLINE AT www.venue.co.uk/early-times-primary-times www.primarytimes.net • www.facebook.com - Arty Barty

k is just indoor trac e fast, ’s brand new som M4 Karting give your children . Page 4 to summer the place safe fun, this

Theatre • Arty

Save money! ndabout • Barty • Rou

Primary Times in Wiltshire

Venue Publishing at Bristol News and Media, Temple Way, Bristol BS99 7HD. More information at www.primarytimes.net and more places to visit at www.venue.co.uk Editor: Mike Gartside

Email: mike.gartside@venue.co.uk Commercial director: Becky Davis

Email: becky.davis@b-nm.co.uk

Tel: 0117 934 3780 Advertising: Caroline Stretton

Email: caroline.stretton@b-nm.co.uk

Tel: 0117 934 3737 Distribution: Simon Butler

Tel: 0117 934 3741

Email: simon.butler@b-nm.co.uk Design: Cath Evans, Dan Srokosz Mike Gartside Proof reading: Alex Saunders Production: Emma Gorton Main Office: 0117 942 8491 Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in Primary, Junior, Infant and Middle Schools throughout the former Avon area, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire. It is also available by subscription at £10 per year.

Its aims are to inform families and children of current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses and attractions, and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or joining in the competitions which we run. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically biased material whatsoever. We also undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best interests of young children.

While we make every effort to ensure information published is accurate, readers are encouraged to check details of all events in advance and neither Venue Publishing nor its contributors are liable for the consequences of any errors. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in the county for their assistance in distributing the magazine and their contributions to its contents.

We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible. Please support their endeavours when and where you can. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Primary Times or the relevant contributor.

Primary Times currently publishes more than two million copies per issue under franchise.

PRIMARY TIMES

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Find these amazing offers this issue!

Explore Learning - join in July and get 25% off first month.

Farmer Gow’s - 20% off allday tickets with voucher.

Link Centre - family of four swims for £10!

Salisbury Arts Centre - free family fiesta, Sat 14-Sun 15 Sep Stagecoach Buses - family explorer ticket £10.

Table Table (The Hampton Inn) - kids eat free voucher & free monster 3D activity pack.

Westonbirt Arboretum – kids go free.

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Karting crazy Set your kids on track for a fast, fun summer by giving them the chance to get behind the wheel with M4 Karting at their brand new indoor track.

W

ith more than 20 years’ experience, M4 Karting is Wiltshire’s premier indoor karting centre.

It caters for drivers from six years old upwards, so whether you have a young Jenson Button or a Lewis Hamilton, this is the place to be.

As well as start-of-the-art karts, M4 Karting also runs a fleet of topof-the-range minimotos for riders aged over 12 years (unless with the Young Riders Academy: see below). The centre is conveniently situated just one mile from Junction 17 on the M4.

The track at M4 Karting has just gone through its biggest transformation in recent years and now has a brand new layout. Full of long, fast straights and new technical corners, it’s designed to keep experienced and beginner drivers on their toes.

The centre is also fortunate to have special Bambino Karts for younger drivers, making it one of the few places in the country where drivers can start on the main track from six years old (minimum height 126cm). The Bambino Karts have 35cc engines and all can be speed-restricted for drivers’ safety. Once drivers are old enough, they will move onto a 120cc cadet kart (minimum height 137cm and over nine years old), giving them more speed – but these can still be speed-restricted for safety for the less confident driver. Finally, once the driver is over 14 years, they will be able to use the 270cc adult karts, which have a top speed of 45mph.

The Scott Redding Young Riders Academy is for children aged 6-14 years old who would like to try their hand at minimoto racing. Scott Redding is one of the top riders in the Moto GP Moto2 Class and he started his career at M4 Karting at the age of six.

The Young Riders Academy is a three-hour session with tuition from Scott himself (when he’s not racing). The tuition covers racing craft and the best way to handle the track, and gives children more confidence. On a normal day the 4

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minimum age for minimotos is 12 years but for The Young Riders Academy the minimum age is just six years old.

Every school holiday, M4 Karting runs Kids’ Activity Days for ages 9-15. You can drop the kids off at 8.30am, then either stay and cheer them on or come back and collect them at 12.30pm.

The day offers a mix of races, learning new skills, having fun and getting a new best lap time.

All Kids’ Activity Days are supervised by fully trained safety staff and run by the centre’s qualified race director. This year the centre is also offering Kids’ Minimoto Days. These are for new riders (minimum age 12 years) and owner riders (minimum age six years), and cost £29.50 per child per day: please call the centre to check availability and book spaces.

If you want an exciting and different way to celebrate your child’s birthday, M4 Karting birthday parties for ages 6-15 years start from just £99 for six children, with a premier party with more karting, food, birthday cake, party bags and all the trimmings costing £299 for 10 children.

Alternatively, if you fancy just coming along and having a go, as an individual or a small group, then an Arrive and Drive session could be perfectly suited to you.

This style of event is organised in 10-minute sessions and each driver receives an individual print-out of all their lap times.

For Arrive and Drive the first session is £15 and £10 for every additional session: perfect for a different family day out.

All karting and minimoto riding is subject to availability so please call 01666 838600 to check availability. To see all events that M4 Karting offer, please visit the website at www.m4karting.com.

M4 Karting Hangar 88, Hullavington Airfield, Hullavington, Chippenham SN14 6GU T: 01666 838600 W: www.M4karting.com PRIMARY TIMES

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Frederica at Trowbridge: 0844 335 1705 Natalie at Melksham and Chippenham: 0118 9429297 Or: 07861 391598

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Richard Hattersley waltzes, tangos and salsas his way round the region’s dance schools.

LET’S DANCE!

Westbury Park Dance Centre

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Pic: DPH Photography & Framing Ltd

T

he popularity of television shows such as ‘Britain’s got Talent’ and ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ may have had children pirouetting around the living room, or tap dancing in the kitchen. But, there is so much more to dance than those spangled outfits and judge Len Goodman’s incessant cries of ‘Seven!’ after a blistering tango.

Dance can move people both physically and emotionally, and children in particular can fall in love with the activity either by seeing it performed, perhaps taking part in a school production or even making up their own improvised routines.

Moving from the comforts of the sofa and into one of the many dance schools in the region can be an enriching experience. For shy children, participating in dance can help infuse them with confidence, while, for the more extrovert, it can be a wonderful outlet for their natural showmanship. Many dance schools have seen hesitant children lose their inhibitions and become confident through the fun and friendly atmosphere of a dance school.

Pauline Reynolds, principal of the Westbury Park Dance Centre in Bristol agrees that those first dance steps can be daunting for a child but that a fun atmosphere can quell their worries. “We never reprimand a young child,” she says. “Instead we believe in encouragement.”

What’s more, with the government recommending children should engage in 60 minutes of vigorous physical activity a day, the discipline is also a perfect opportunity for children to socialise with their friends without even

Students at Linda Virgoe Dance Academy

realising they are keeping fit. Ann Blake, co-founder of the Dancers of Chippenham says, “Every time you get on the dance floor for 45 to 60 minutes, whatever dance you choose, it is the best type of exercise you can get. It’s something you can’t get on the Nintendo DS. Dance is far more strenuous than football and rugby: you use all your muscles.”

Gloucester-based dance teacher Linda Virgoe explains how dance can have a positive effect on many other areas of children’s lives. “A career in dance requires practice, dedication, focus and communication – all useful life skills,” she says. “Children learn to work together as part of a team in dance lessons, developing trust and cooperation as well as making new friends.”

Children can start from as young as two-and-a-half and dance classes can enhance their development, nurturing their memory and co-ordination. Dance games like pretending to be a princess or an animal even help children broaden their imaginations. These same techniques are also used to great effect in assisting disabled children, with dance schools seeing therapeutic benefits for children with autism.

So, you may find your tiny dancer has a stronger sense of concentration, focus and listening

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TOP TIPS

Go with a friend and have fun together.

Don’t worry about making a mistake. You can’t fail through trying.

3

If you’re feeling shy, ask if you can just watch. Then join in when you feel more confident.

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Bring water to stay hydrated.

Be committed: if you want to become as good as the dancers on television, you have to be prepared to practice. skills. As a parent, you may also benefit from all this hard work by watching your children perform on stage in competitions and performances. These shows give them valuable experience and prepare them for the stresses of exams later in their schooling.

By attending dance classes, your children could one day cha cha cha out of the living room and on to the stage, or even become teachers themselves. Whatever your child wants from dance, the schools in the area offer an eclec-

tic mix of classes, from tap and ballet to modern and jazz, to name but a few. They’ll find dance opens up so many ways to have fun, while staying fit and learning skills that will stand them in good stead for the rest of their lives.

Dancers of Chippenham W: www.dancersofchippenham. co.uk Joanne Simmons Academy of Dance W: www.jsacademy.co.uk The Kirsty Farrow Dance Academy W: www. thekirstyfarrowdanceacademy. co.uk Linda Virgoe Dance Academy W: www.lindavirgoeacademy.co.uk Swindon Dance W: www.swindondance.org.uk Westbury Park Dance Centre W: www.westburyparkdance.co.uk

Children can start from as young as two-and-a-half

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FULLY EQUIPPED DANCE STUDIOS

Mirrors, Sprung Floors, Ballet Barres Ballet (RAD) Modern (ISTD) Tap (ISTD) Lyrical Contemporary

Limbering and conditioning Musical Theatre Jazz Hip Hop

Classes from 18 months upwards Birthday Parties available on request Serving Chippenham, Calne and surrounding villages and Colerne

Contact info: www.fitzgraham.co.uk info@fitzgraham.co.uk Tel: 01249 444355

COMING SOON TO YOUR MOBILE DEVICE

rima ry ptimes

11 12 1 yrs

2 3 4

yrs

in Wiltshire

Issue 82 24 May-24 Jul 2013

Take the

Also Cycling special Family festivals Father’s Day

leap

Barbury International Eventing and Show offers Olympian thrills and gourmet food for all the family. Page 4 Theatre • Arty Barty • Roundabout • Save money!

rima ry ptimes

11 12 1 yrs

2 3 4

yrs

in Wiltshire

Issue 82 24 May-24 Jul 2013

Take the

Also Cycling special Family festivals Father’s Day

leap

Barbury International Eventing and Show offers Olympian thrills and gourmet food for all the family. Page 4 Theatre • Arty Barty • Roundabout • Save money!

From 1st August 2013 PRIMARY TIMES

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FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SHOWS ★ SALISBURY, SWINDON, TROWBRIDGE & BEYOND the City of Lost Toys.

Cats Tue 15 Sep-Sat 26th Oct. 2.30pm & 7.30pm. £15-£45 • TS Eliot’s ‘Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats’ is brought to life with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber.

WILTSHIRE LYDIARD PARK Lydiard Tregoze, Swindon SN5 3PA. 01793 770401, www.lydiardpark.org.uk Tales of Peter Rabbit & Benjamin Bunny Fri 26 Jul. 6.30pm. £14/£9/£40 family.

Tickets: 01793 614837 • Peter Rabbit knows he shouldn’t go into Mr McGregor’s garden, but he can’t resist! He gets into all kinds of scrapes and after a severe telling-off from his mother, Peter and Benjamin have to go back into the garden to recover his lost clothes. This childhood favourite is brought to life in an open-air performance from Quantum Theatre.

Babe the Sheep-Pig Fri 16 Aug. 6.30pm. £14/£9/£40 family.

Tickets: 01793 614837 • Farmer Hoggett wins a piglet at the fair – and everyone knows what fate awaits a pig raised on a farm.

Adopted by Fly the sheepdog, Babe develops his own methods of herding sheep using politeness...

After last year’s hilarious, sell-out production of ‘The Twits’, Illyria bring another open-air production of a much-loved children’s classic to Lydiard Park.

NEELD HALL High Street, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 3ER, 01249 665970, www.chippenham.gov.uk.

The Wind in the Willows Fri 30 Aug. 7pm. Adult £13/ Child £7 / Family (2 adults, 2 children) £35 • A thrilling performance of Kenneth Grahame’s classic novel.

Adapted for the stage by Laura Turner, the popular characters Badger, Ratty, Mole and Toad feature in this glorious summer adventure. Alive with music, song and dance, what starts as a search for the best picnic spot rapidly turns into the most hilarious of escapades. With the precocious Toad’s heart set on a shiny new motorcar and his very liberty soon at stake, will his faithful friends come to his rescue – and will he let them?

SALISBURY PLAYHOUSE Malthouse Lane, Salisbury SP2 7RA. 01722 320333, www.salisburyplayhouse.com The Three Musketeers Tue 10-Thur 12 Sep. 7.45pm & 2.45 (Thur mat). £12/£8 • Swashbuckling capers in this fastpaced adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’ epic tale.

SWINDON ARTS CENTRE Devizes Road, Old Town, Swindon 8

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THE BRISTOL OLD VIC King Street, Bristol BS1 4ED. 0117 987 7877, www.bristololdvic.org. uk The Boy Who Cried Wolf! Sat 13 Jul-Sun 1 Sep. 2pm & 7pm. £22/£20/£10 (first 50 tickets) • Returning to the open air outside the theatre, the creative team behind ‘Treasure Island’ and ‘Peter Pan’ unfold the famous storytelling slave’s parable, adapted

by Michael Morpurgo.

Babe the Sheep Pig, Lydiard Park, Swindon, 16 Aug

SN1 4BJ. 01793 614837, www.swindon.gov.uk/artscentre Comedy Club 4 Kids Sat 21 Sep. 2pm. £6.50 • Some of the biggest names in comedy perform childfriendly sets that will entertain the whole family. Suitable for ages 6+.

Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! Tue 29 Oct. 11.30am & 2pm. £8/£6/£25 family • A lively show that’s full of fun and feathers for ages 3+. Featuring original music and audience participation, the only question that remains is will you let the pigeon drive the bus?

Theo The Mouse Thu 31 Oct. 1.30pm. £10/£8/£32 family • Join Theo the Mouse and Wendy for an afternoon of jokes, songs and magic suitable for ages 2+.

THE WYVERN THEATRE Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 1QN. 01793 524481, www.wyverntheatre.org.uk Milkshake! Sun 28 Jul. 1-3.30pm. £13/£11/£44 family • This all-singing, all-dancing live stage show will have children tapping their toes, clapping their hands and singing at the top of their voices.

Dinosaur Zoo Wed 18-Fri 20 Sep. 10.30am & 4.30pm. £13.50 • Observe and interact with these extraordinary life-like dinosaurs in this entertaining and highly imaginative live show. But watch out – not all of these jurassic giants are as tame as they seem!

Horrible Science Tue 26-Sat 30 Nov. See website for times. £13/£15/£17 • Science-focused show from the acclaimed producers of ‘Horrible Histories’.

Jack and the Beanstalk Sat 7 Dec-Thu 5 Jan. See website for times & prices • Keith Chegwin headlines as Silly Billy in the Wyvern theatre’s pantomime.

After selling his family’s cow for some magic beans, Jack sets off on an unexpected and giant adventure.

FURTHER AFIELD BATH CITY FARM Kelston View, Bath BA2 1NW. Monkey and Crocodile Sat 20Sun 21 Jul. 11am & 3pm. £5/£16 family • In conjunction with the egg theatre, Metta Theatre brings an old Indian fable of friendship and betrayal magically to life.

Tickets and further info from the egg (see below). Ages 3+.

THE EGG Theatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath BA1 1ET. 01225 448844, www.theatreroyal.org.uk Fireside Tales with Granddad Sat 20 Jul. 11.30am & 3pm. £7.50/£6.50 • Lucid soundscapes combine with impressive puppetry to create a fireside setting for everyone’s favourite Grandad.

Yer Tiz Sat 21 Sep. 11.30 & 3pm, £7.50/£6.50 • Performer Nick White travels from Bath to Chard, meeting some unlikely inhabitants, including a pirate and a dragon, Ages 6+.

THE BRISTOL HIPPODROME Saint Augustine’s Parade, Bristol BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012, www. bristolhippodrome.org.uk Dora the Explorer Fri 26-Sun 28 Jul. 4pm (Fri), 10am, 1pm & 4pm (Sat), 10am & 1pm (Sun). £19/£17 • Nickelodeon’s young explorer is brought to the stage and the audience are invited to search for

EVERYMAN THEATRE Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573, www.everymantheatre.org.uk Guys and Dolls Sat 20-Mon 22 Jul. 5pm (Sat & Sun), 7pm (Mon) • Stagecoach and the Senior and Junior Everyman Young Company present this colourful musical set in New York City.

Around the World in 80 Days Sat 27 Jul. 8pm • Outdoor production (in Sandford Parks Lido) of Jules Verne’s classic globetrotting adventure. Suitable for ages 4+.

The Gruffalo’s Child Wed 21-Thur 22 Aug, 11am & 2pm • Tall Stories present their fun-packed production of the sequel to Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s famous yarn.

THE PLAYHOUSE THEATRE 47-53 Bath Road, Cheltenham.

01242 522852, www.playhousecheltenham.org Aladdin Fri 16-Sat 17 Aug. 7.30pm & 2.30pm (Sat). £5 • Everything, from the acting to the directing, in this version of the well-known tale is done by members of the Cheltenham Children’s Theatre Association, all of whom are under 18.

THE ROSES THEATRE Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX. 01684 295074, www.rosestheatre. org Hey Diddle Diddle Thur 25 Jul. 2pm. £7.50 • Fun nursery rhymebased show with songs, laughter and audience participation.

There’s a Monster in my Piano Thur 1 Aug. 2pm. £7.50 • Offbeat jazzy tale with puppetry and clowning.

Theo The Mouse Thur 8 Aug. 2pm. £10/£8 • Comedy, songs and magic in a story about a cheeky mouse.

Postman Pat Live Thur 22 Aug. 1pm & 3.30pm. £12.50/£10.50/£42 family • Join Pat for the Greendale karaoke talent competition.

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Best Driver Trophy Safe Driver Awards Fun and Games

For more information please contact

07810 113 457 or aim@go-kartparty.co.uk www.gokartpartywiltshire.com www.go-kartparty.co.uk

Junior Quad Parties

• Ages: 6yrs to 13yrs • Group sizes: Min 6 Max 8 • 2x 70cc quads with one instructor • Duration: 90 minutes • Cost: £150.00 • Helmets provided

Archery Parties

• Ages: 6yrs and up • Group sizes: Min 6 Max 8 • Junior recurve bows and arm guards • Duration: 1 hour • Cost: £100.00

Combined Quad / Archery Party

• Ages: 6yrs to 13yrs • Group sizes: Min 6 Max 12 • 2 instructors • Duration: 2 hours • Cost: £200.00 T: 01249 730388 M: 07775 706754 E: info@teampursuits.co.uk

www.teampursuits.co.uk

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ROUNDABOUT Your ultimate family diary of what’s on, where & when

Deadlines: List your school’s summer events in Primary Times for free.

We work a half-term in advance so we’re now collecting information copy for September and October 2013: deadline Mon 5 Aug. If your event is to raise cash for a school or charity, and is open to the public, we want to know.

Email mike.gartside@venue.co.uk.

PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL While we make every effort to ensure these listings are accurate and up to date, event information can sometimes change after we’ve gone to press. Please check with the venue or organiser before you set off to an event to make sure it’s going ahead as planned . . . and tell them you saw it in Primary Times!

JULY ONGOING THE SPLENDOUR OF STONEHENGE Wiltshire Heritage Museum, 41 Long Street, Devizes, Wiltshire, SN10 1NS. 01380 727369, www. wiltshireheritage.org.uk, admission charges apply • The Museum has an extensive collection of paintings, drawings, engravings, prints and photographs of Stonehenge, dating from the 18th century to the present day.

ONGOING BRLSI SCIENCE TRAIL Starts at Bath Royal Literary & Scientific Institution (BRLSI), 16 Queen Square, Bath, BA1 2HN. 01225 312084, www.brlsi.org/ youthactivitiesgallery, 10am4pm, Mon-Fri. Free trails available from reception • The BRLSI has designed four self-directed family trails around central Bath. Entitled Science, Building, Alderard and Champions Tree, these walks introduce children to different scientific ideas and links them to sites of interest in Bath.

UNTIL SUN 8 SEP GROMIT UNLEASHED Central Bristol, www.gromitunleashed.org.uk, free • Follow the trail of 80 5ft tall Gromits on this public art display. Each sculpture has been lovingly designed by famous names including Gromit creator Nick Park, comedian Harry Hill and artist Quentin Blake. After the summer, the Gromits will be auctioned off in aid of the Wallace and Gromit Grand Appeal.

UNTIL TUE 29 OCT QUILTING BEE The American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath, BA2 7BD. 01225 460503, www.americanmuseum.org/, 12-4pm, general admission • Quilting groups from all over PRIMARY TIMES

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tion of local crafts. Also games, races, dancing and other activities.

TUE 23 JUL & WED 7 AUG EVENING ON THE ESTUARY Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT. 01453 891223, www.wwt. org.uk/visit/slimbridge, 7pm, £15 • The reserve wardens lead a small group to the Sea Wall at the Wetland Centre, where one of the biggest gull roosts in the South West is situated.

Trowbridge Tudors, Thu 25-Fri 26 Jul

the region demonstrate their talents and chat with visitors in the Textiles Room. Every Tuesday.

UNTIL 31 DEC MABEL KITSON, RAILWAY QUEEN – SPECIAL EXHIBITION Steam Museum of the Great Western Railway, Fire Fly Avenue, Kemble Drive, Swindon, SN2 2EY. 01793 466637, www.steammuseum.org.uk, admission charges apply • Learn more about the young girl who was crowned the nation’s ‘Railway Queen.’

UNTIL 31 DEC FIFTY FABULOUS FROCKS EXHIBITION Fashion Museum, Assembly Rooms, Bennett Street, Bath BA1 2QH. 01225 477789, 10.30am5pm, admission charges apply • A classic collection of fashion throughout the ages, including iconic names in 20th century fashion such as Christian Dior and Yves Saint Laurent and brands such as Burberry and Erdem.

WED 17, 24 & 31 JUL WEDNESDAY WONDERS The Roman Baths, Abbey Churchyard, Bath BA1 1LZ. 01225 477785, www.romanbaths.co.uk, 6-8pm • Take the family after school to learn about local history through presentations of archaeology and an opportunity to handle the ancient collections.

FRI 19 JUL WINDMILL COTTAGE Kings Road, Market Lavington, SN10 4QB. 01380 813527, 2pm5pm, £3 • Enjoy this one acre cottage-style, wildlife friendly garden.

SAT 20-SUN 21 JUL BEGGARS KNOLL CHINESE GARDEN Newtown, Westbury, BA13 3ED, 01373 823383, 2pm, £3.50 • An inspirational one acre garden filled with colourful plantings set

against a backdrop of Chinese pavilions, gateways, statues and dragons. A large potager houses chickens, and pigs live in the woods.

SAT 20-SUN 28 JUL A WEEK OF FEATHERED FRIENDS Bowood House & Gardens, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 0LZ. 01249 812102, www.bowood-house.co.uk, general admission • On Tractor Ted’s new farm, children meet the friendly farm animals and enjoy farm games.

SAT 20 JUL-SUN 1 SEP SUMMER FISH-TIVAL Bristol Aquarium, Anchor Road, Bristol, BS1 5TT. 0117 929 8929, www.bristolaquarium.co.uk • Explore an underwater world and learn about animals that reside around our local coasts, see exotic fishes from all over the world and find out scientific facts about the vast seas around us. From elegant sea horses to daunting octopuses and sharks, there is a plenitude of wildlife to see.

SUN 21 JUL TWIGS COMMUNITY GARDEN Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor Industrial Estate, Swindon, SN2 2QJ. 01793 523294 www. richmondfellowship.org.uk/twigs, £3 (adults), children free • Visit this two acre community garden, created and maintained by volunteers, with seven individual display gardens, ornamental pond, plant nursery, Iron Age round house and much more.

SUN 21 JUL LONGCOT VILLAGE FAIR The grounds of Longcot and Fernham school, Faringdon, Wiltshire, SN7 7SY. 07904 680547, 12pm-5pm, £2 adults/£1 children • Sample cheese, ice cream, fudge and other tasty treats from local producers and sellers. View a wonderful collec-

TUE 23-FRI 26 JUL GET SPORTED: MULTI SPORTS DAY CAMP Ralph Allen School, Bath, BA2 7AD. 07528 689854, www.getsported.org, £20-£88 (early bird & sibling discounts available) • Children can learn and improve their sports skills while gaining confidence through activities and team talk discussions. Sports include football, cricket, rugby and more. Ages 5-12 years.

FROM THU 25 JUL MAKE YOUR OWN GROMIT At-Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www.at-bristol. org.uk, £3 model-making workshop, admission charges apply • Meet an Aardman model maker, who’ll teach you the tricks of the trade and help you make your very own Gromit.

THU 25-FRI 26 JUL TROWBRIDGE TUDORS Trowbridge Museum, The Shires Shopping Centre, Court Street, Trowbridge, Wiltshire. 01225 751339, www.trowbridgemuseum. co.uk, 10.30am, free but donations welcomed • As part of the CBA Festival of Archaeology, the museum character Stumpy investigates the Tudor past. Children are encouraged to meet Tudor people and dress up in traditional Tudor attire.

Gromit unleashed throughout Bristol until Sun 8 Sep

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ROUNDABOUT »

PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES!

THU 25 JUL WILD WEST CRAFTS The American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath, BA2 7BD. 0122 546 0503, www.americanmuseum.org, 1-4pm, gardens admission only • Make your own Wild West outfit: sheriff’s badges, bandanas and fake moustaches or fluttering fans and feathered headpieces.

FRI 26-SUN 28 JUL BRISTOL HARBOUR FESTIVAL Bristol Harbourside. www.bristolharbourfestival.co.uk, free • Over 250,000 festival fans descend upon Bristol for a weekend of activities celebrating the beautiful ships lining a two-mile stretch along the waterfront, with live music, circus/ dance activities and children’s area in Castle Park.

SAT 27 JUL E-BOOK WRITING WORKSHOP 45 Castle Street, Trowbridge, Wiltshire, BA14 8WB. 01225 777514, www.kipmcgrath.co.uk, booking essential, 10 am-12pm, free • Create your own e-book and get it published online in this workshop for budding young writers. Suitable for ages 7-16.

SAT 27-SUN 28 JUL MILKHOUSE WATER FARM (COMBINED WITH DANE BROOK) Milkhouse Water, Pewsey, SN9 5JX. 01672 562620, www.danebrook. co.uk. £5 adults, children free • Relax in a beautiful cottage garden with a natural pond area, bluebell wood, parterre formal box garden and paddocks with alpacas. Wool, crafts and eggs for sale.

SUN 28 JUL URBAN BRISTOL – STREET ART BY BUS Departure from outside Specialized Bike Shop, Park Street, Bristol, 1pm-3pm, £8 (adult), £5 child. 07554 457666, www.citysightseeingbristol.co.uk/publictrips/tickets.php • An open top bus tour of Bristol’s city-wide street art taking in Nelson Street, North Street and sites of work by artists including Cheo, Banksy, Andy Council, Herakut and Stinkfish.

Book to avoid disappointment.

own gangster’s moll headband or speedy getaway car.

THU 1 AUG BABE THE SHEEP PIG Lacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum & Village, Lacock, nr. Chippenham SN15 2LG. 01249 730459, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock, 7pm, £15 adult/£8 child, book online • Enjoy Dick King Smith’s heartwarming classic performed against the backdrop of Lacock Abbey.

Ages 5+

Dragon Hunting for Beginners, Coate Water, Wed 31 Jul.

SAT 27-SUN 28 JUL DANE BROOK Milkhouse Water, Pewsey SN9 5JX, 01672 562620, www.danebrook.co.uk, £5 adults, children free • This acre of gardens features herbaceous beds, shrubs, trees, a semi formal garden, roses, oxbow pond with planted banks and thatched summer house. Far reaching views from the paddocks and a craft shop with handmade gifts and jams.

SUN 28 JUL THE MERCHANT’S HOUSE SUMMER LUNCH The Merchant’s House, 132 High Street, Marlborough, Wiltshire SN8 1HN. 01672 511491, www. themerchantshouse.co.uk, 12-3.30pm, £20/£17/£12 children under 14 • Enjoy a two-course meal and lunch with entertainment from Bertie Pearce, who’s a member of the Magic Circle.

SUN 28 JUL LYDIARD PARK WALLED GARDEN Lydiard Tregoze, Swindon, SN5 3PA. 01793 770401, www. lydiardpark.org.uk, £2.50 adults and children free • A beautiful ornamental walled garden with trimmed shrubs alternating with individually planted flowers and bulbs including rare daffodils and tulips and sweet peas. Also a park and children’s playground.

SUN 28 JUL SWEET BRIAR COTTAGE 19 Gladstone Road, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 3BW. 01249 656005, 1.30pm, £3 adults and children free • Nearly an acre of walled garden restored in 2006.

Vegetables are grown organically in four foot beds, a large collection of roses, ornamental and fruit trees.

MON 29 JUL-FRI 2 AUG JUNGLE EXPLORERS Theatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath BA1 1ET. 01225 448844, www.theatreroyal.org.uk, 10am-12noon, £70 • Children join Theatre Royal staff for drama, crafts and a trek through the jungle. Ages 5-6.

Bristol Harbour Festival, Fri 26-Sun 28 Jul

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TUE 30 JUL TEDDY BEARS’ PICNIC Lacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum

& Village, Lacock, nr. Chippenham SN15 2LG. 01249 730459, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock, 11am, standard admission applies • Bring your teddy along for a lunchtime treat, with activities for you and your cuddly best friend.

WED 31 JUL DRAGON HUNTING FOR BEGINNERS Coate Water Information Centre, SE side of Swindon, M4 J15. 01793 490150, www.swindown.gov.uk, 12noon-2pm, free, book in advance by telephone • Head Dragon Tracker Cristian Starmer leads an exploration into hidden swamps, wetlands and shallow ponds to unearth the beautiful dragonfly. Wear clothes to suit the weather and a pair of wellies. Meet at the information centre.

Suitable for ages 5-12.

WED 31 JULY & 7, 14, 21 & 28 AUG WILTSHIRE FARMERS’ MARKETS Poultry Cross, Salisbury. 07541 762497, www.wiltshirefarmersmarkets.co.uk, every Wed, 9am2pm • Purchase local produce from stalls stocking vegetables, meats and meat products, poultry, cheeses, breads and locally made ciders.

AUGUST THU 1 AUG ALDBOURNE PLAY DAY Farm Lane Sports and Recreation Ground, SN8 2DS. 07717 194335, committee@aldbourneyouthcouncil.co.uk, 11am - 3pm • This is certain to be a memorable family day out which has something for children and young people of all ages. Activities include pony rides, inflatables, a BMX track, a zip wire, cricket, football tennis, a bouncy castle and go-karts. Also arts and crafts, a picnic area and refreshments.

THU 1 AUG PROHIBITION CRAFTS The American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath, BA2 7BD. 01225 460503, www.americanmuseum.org, 1-4pm, gardens only admission • Be inspired by the glamour of the 1920s and make your

SAT 3 AUG BUGS AND BUTTERFLIES CRAFTS Old Down Country Park, Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol, BS32 4PG. 01454 414081, www.olddownpark.co.uk, 1pm • Make beautiful wildlife creations, fun for inside and the outside, including a minibeast hotel!

MON 5-FRI 9 AUG BEASTLY TALES Theatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath, BA1 1ET. 01225 448844, www. theatre-royal.org.uk, 10am-2pm, £85 • Explore the poetic fables of Vikram Seth’s ‘Beastly Tales’ through poetry, music and performance. Ages 7-9 years.

MON 5-FRI 9 AUG ART & NATURE The Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney Street, Bath, BA2 4DB. 01225 388569, www.holburne. org, £35 per day/£120 for 4 days • Creative and fun day-long art workshops inspired by the Museum’s collection and exhibitions and led by the Holburne’s team of artists. Ages 5-13 years.

TUE 6 AUG HANDS ON HISTORY The American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath, BA2 7BD. 01225 460503, www. americanmuseum.org, 1-4pm, gardens only admission • Get hands on with some beautiful Native American objects, including beaded moccasins, woven baskets, tools and a replica war bonnet.

TUE 6-THU 8 AUG DINOSAURS Wiltshire Heritage Museum, 41 Long St Devizes, Wiltshire, SN10

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1NS. 01380 727369, www.wiltshireheritage.org.uk, 11am-12.30pm (under-8s)/1.30-3pm (over-8s), £4 child • Make your own moveable dinosaur, ferocious dinosaur feet and more.

TUE 6, 13, 20 & 27 AUG MAJOR DAVIS TOUR OF THE ROMAN BATHS Roman Baths, Stall Street, Bath BA1 1LZ. 01225 477773, www. romanbaths.co.uk, 5.45pm, £18 adult/£12 child 11+ • Professional actor Ric Jerrom brings back to life Major Charles Davis, the City Architect and Surveyor of Works who originally discovered and uncovered the Roman Baths in the late 19th century. Join him to explore unseen corners of the Roman Baths.

TUE 6-FRI 9 AUG GET SPORTED: MULTI SPORTS DAY CAMP Ralph Allen School, Bath, BA2 7AD. 07528 689854, www.getsported.org, £20-£88 (early bird & sibling discounts available) • Children can learn and improve their sports skills, while gaining confidence through activi-

clothes. Meet at the information centre. Suitable for ages 5-12.

Make your own Egyptian mummy at Wiltshire Heritage Museum, Tue 13-Wed 14 Aug.

WED 7, 14, 21 & 28 AUG WEDNESDAY WONDERS The Roman Baths, Abbey Church Yard, Bath, BA1 1LZ. 01225 477785, www.romanbaths.co.uk, 6-8pm • Take the family after school to learn about local history through presentations of archaeology and an opportunity to handle the ancient collections.

THU 8 AUG WILD WEST CRAFTS The American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath BA2 7BD. 01225 460503, www.americanmuseum.org, 1- 4pm, gardens only admission • Create your own covered wagon and join the trail to the Wild West.

THU 8-SUN 11 AUG BRISTOL BALLOON FIESTA Ashton Court Estate, Bristol, BS8 3TQ. www.bristolballoonfiesta. co.uk, 6am-6pm, free • As well as watching the spectacle of the mass balloon ascents, night glows and fireworks, you can watch the Red Arrows, the RAF Falcons Bee and Honey Day at Lacock, Sun 11 Aug

MON 12-SUN 18 AUG SUMMER PUPPET FESTIVAL Bayshill Unitarian Church Hall, Royal Well Lane, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 3ET. 01242 263283, daily workshops & performances 11am-2.15pm, £3.50 adult/£2.50 child/£10 family/£3 workshops • Enjoy daily puppet performances of ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’, ‘Ali Baba’ and ‘Coppelia’, as well as puppet-making workshops. Proceeds to the Well Child charity.

MON 12-FRI 23 AUG FREE FILMS Swindon Arts Centre, Devizes Road, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4BJ. 01793 614837, www.swindon.gov. uk/artscentre, check website for times & showings • Simply turn up and enjoy free screenings of family favourites including ‘Toy Story 3’ and ‘Beauty and the Beast’. First come, first served.

ties and team talk discussions.

Sports include football, cricket, rugby and more. Ages 5-12 years.

Parachute Display Team and the Spitfire Memorial Flight at this annual celebration.

TUE 6 AUG THERE’S SOMETHING IN THE WATER Stanton Park Information Centre, Swindon. 01793 490150, www.swindon.gov.uk, 9am-10am & 11am-12noon, free, book in advance by telephone • David Boase leads an investigation into what’s living in the water at Stanton Park. Using nets, old clothes and wellies, learn more about this watery habitat.

Meet at the information centre.

Suitable for ages 5+.

SAT 10-SAT 24 AUG MEET THE RAILWAY WORKERS Steam Museum of the Great Western Railway, Fire Fly Avenue, Kemble Drive, Swindon, SN2 2TA. 01793 466637, www.steammuseum.org.uk, 10am-4pm, standard admission applies • Take a step back in time and meet the engine drivers, firemen and railway workers who worked on the locomotives and in Swindon Works.

WED 7 AUG TREE SPIRITS Stanton Park Information Centre, Swindon. 01793 490150, www.swindon.gov.uk, 10am12noon, free, book in advance by telephone • Explore the ancient woods at Stanton Park with Head Spirit-Hunter Cristian Starmer.

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SUN 11 AUG BEE & HONEY DAY Lacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum & Village, Lacock, near Chippenham SN15 2LG. 01249 730459, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ lacock, 10.30am, normal admission charges apply • Join the Melksham Beekeepers Association for a relaxed, informative and fun day of bee-related activities, demonstrations and refreshments.

TUE 13 AUG BUG SAFARI Stanton Park Information Centre, Swindon. 01793 490150, www. swindon.gov.uk, 10-11am, free, book in advance by telephone • Join the team equipped with nets, brushes, jars and sheets looking for the many bugs which live in the undergrowth of the local nature reserve. Wear old clothes (long sleeves and trousers) plus stout shoes. Meet at the information centre. Suitable for ages 5+.

TUE 13 AUG HANDS ON HISTORY The American Museum in Britain, Children’s Art Workshop, Salisbury Arts Centre, Wed 14 Aug

Claverton Manor, Bath BA2 7BD. 01225 460503, www.americanmuseum.org, 1-4pm, gardens only admission • Find out what life was really like for the first European settlers in America by handling objects they would have used in their daily lives.

TUE 13 AUG SEASIDE PICNIC Lacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum & Village, Lacock, near Chippenham, SN15 2LG. 01249 730459, www.nationaltrust.org. uk/lacock, normal admission charges apply • Enjoy beachthemed fun with entertainment, crafts and activities when the seaside is brought to Wiltshire.

Bring deck chairs and wear seaside-themed fancy dress.

TUE 13-WED 14 AUG EGYPTIANS Wiltshire Heritage Museum, 41 Long St, Devizes, Wiltshire, SN10 1NS. 01380 727369, www. wiltshireheritage.org.uk, 11am12.30pm (under-8s)/1.30pm-3pm (over-8s), £4 child • Make your own mummy with all the Tomb treasures.

WED 14 AUG YOUNG RANGERS Coate Water Information Centre, SE side of Swindon, M4 J15. 01793 490150, www.swindown.gov. uk, 10am-12noon, free, book in advance by telephone • Become a ranger for the day by helping to do some tree pruning and learn more about what it takes to look after the parks of Swindon. Wear old clothes and stout shoes. Meet at the information centre.

WED 14 AUG CHILDREN’S ART WORKSHOP Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin Street, Salisbury, SP1 3UT. 01722 321744, wwwsalisburyartscentre. co.uk, 10am-2pm, £20 • Explore different mediums, learn key skills and develop your selfexpression while creating your very own works of art with art teacher Angela Corben.

WED 14 AUG PRIVATE WALLED GARDEN TOUR Bowood House & Gardens, Calne, Wiltshire, SN11 0LZ. 01249 812102, www.bowood-house.co.uk, £27.50 PRIMARY TIMES

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PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES! • Guided tour of Lord and Lady Lansdowne’s private walled garden.

THU 15 AUG, WILD WEST CRAFTS The American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath BA2 7BD. 01225 460503, www.americanmuseum.org, 1-4pm, gardens only admission • All cowboys and cowgirls need a trusty steed they can depend on when the going gets tough. Make your own hobby horse and ride into the sunset.

SAT 17-SUN 18 AUG BIG FARM MACHINERY WEEKEND Bowood House & Gardens, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 0LZ. 01249 812102, www.bowood-house.co.uk, general admission • Brand new farm tractors on display at Tractor Ted’s little farm alongside their smaller counterparts.

MON 19, TUE 20, MON 26 & TUE 27 AUG SUMMER SCHOOL Kip Mcgrath, 45 Castle Street, Trowbridge BA14 8WB. 01225 777514, www.kipmcgrath.co.uk/, 10.30am-12.30pm, £30 per session • Kick start your child’s learning for the new school year. Fun, educational English and maths activities individually tailored to your child’s needs. Book early as places are limited. Suitable for children aged 7-16.

MON 19-TUE 20 AUG THE GRUFFALO Stanton Park Information Centre, Swindon. 01793 490150, www. swindon.gov.uk, 10am-11am, free, book in advance by telephone • Join Gruffalo tracker David Boase on this storytelling event which takes a walk into the deep, dark woods where sightings of a strange creature have been reported. Come dressed as your favourite woodland creature and wear stout shoes.

Meet at the information centre.

Join the Gruffalo Hunt, Mon 19-Tue 20 Aug, Stanton Park.

TUE 20 AUG HANDS ON HISTORY The American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath BA2 7BD. 01225 460503, www.americanmuseum.org, 1-4pm, gardens only admission • The American West wasn’t all cowboys and gold rushes!

Get behind the Hollywood stereotypes by handling artefacts that tell us about life beyond the frontier.

TUE 20 AUG FAMILY BAT WATCH Lacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum & Village, Lacock, nr. Chippenham SN15 2LG. 01249 730459, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock, 7.30pm, £8 adult/£4 child • Join bat expert Tony Brazier to watch for and listen to bats living in locations in and around Lacock Abbey.

TUE 20 AUG PLAY IN A DAY Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin Street, Salisbury, SP1 3UT. 01722 321744, wwwsalisburyartscentre. co.uk, 10am-3.30pm, £20 • Create an everyday superhero character, make your own costume and bring your character to life in this day of crafts, theatre, dance and song.

Ages 5-8 years.

WED 21 AUG FELTED CREATURES Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin Street, Salisbury, SP1 3UT. 01722 321744, wwwsalisburyartscentre. co.uk, 10am-1pm, £15 • Create your own animal using a stone and wet felting techniques. From Hipporaffes to Rhinophants, let your imagination run wild. For children 6-10 years old.

WED 21 AUG TAKE A DIP Coate Water Information Centre, Swindon, M4 J15. 01793 490150, www.swindown.gov.uk, 10.30am12noon, free, book in advance by telephone • Bring waterproof gloves, such as marigolds, and a magnifying lens to discover the wealth of life that makes its home in the ponds at Coate. Suitable for ages 5-12. Meet at Coate Information Centre.

THU 22 AUG UNDER THE SEA Wiltshire Heritage Museum, 41 Long St, Devizes, Wiltshire SN10 1NS. 01380 727369, www.wiltshireheritage.org.uk/, 11am-12.30pm (under8s)/1.30-3pm (over-8s), £4 child • Create your own willow fish and suncatchers and discover a whole world of underwater wonders.

THU 22 AUG PROHIBITION CRAFTS The American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath BA2 7BD. 01225 460503, www. americanmuseum.org, 1-4pm, gardens only admission • Hollywood gangsters need a good »

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aim, even if they’re just throwing custard pies! Make your own target toy and get practising.

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Treefest, Sat 24-Mon 26 Aug

Long St, Devizes, Wiltshire SN10 1NS. 01380 727369, www.wiltshireheritage.org.uk/, 11am-12.30pm (under-8s)/1.30-3pm (over-8s), £4 child • Come along and make your own pair of Saxon shoes and a shield; you can even have a go at making your own runes.

SAT 24-MON 26 AUG TREEFEST 2013 Westonbirt Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury, Gloucestershire, GL8 8QS. 0300 068 0400, www.forestry.gov.uk/ westonbirt-treefest, £10 advance adult/£8 advance concession/£24 weekend, book in advance by phone or online • This eco-festival celebrates natures, trees and woodcraft across an actionpacked weekend of activities and displays.

SUN 25 AUG SENSATIONAL SENSES Various outdoor locations, meet at Seven Fields car park off Kennet Avenue, Swindon. 01793 490150, www.swindown.gov.uk, 10.30am12noon, free, book in advance by telephone • Using all the senses, unlock a new way of appreciating and exploring nature. Wear old clothes, long trousers and sturdy shoes.

SUN 25 AUG URBAN BRISTOL – STREET ART BY BUS Departure from outside Specialized Bike Shop, Park Street, Bristol, 1pm-3pm, £8 (adult), £5 (child). 07554 457666, www.citysightseeingbristol.co.uk/publictrips/tickets.php • See 28 Jul.

FRI 30 AUG-SUN 1 SEP HORSE TRIALS Longleat, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 7NW. 01985 844400, www. longleat.co.uk • Unaffiliated and open event aimed at the amateur rider.

TUE 27 AUG ANIMAL ANTICS Yate Leisure Centre, Kennedy Way, Yate, Gloucestershire, BS37 4DQ. 03003 330300, www.activecentres. org/for-kids/holiday-programme, 9am, £21.50 (Age 5 to 14yrs), booking essential • A fun-filled day of games and activities where children meet and learn about the animals from ZOOLAB. Discover which animals can out-run, out-jump and out-lift the fastest and strongest athletes.

TUE 27-THU 29 AUG ANIMATED FUN Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin Street, Salisbury SP1 3UT. 01722 321744, wwwsalisburyartscentre. co.uk, £80 • Play with storyboarding, set design, camera angles and

lighting, then bring your characters to life in a short animated film on this course for young people aged 10 and over.

WED 28 AUG TEDDY SURVIVAL DAY Stanton Park Information Centre, Swindon. 01793 490150, www.swindon.gov.uk, 10am-12noon, free, book in advance by telephone • Bears used to live in the woods but their ancestors have forgotten what to do. Bring along your own teddy bear to teach these lost bears survival tips. Bring sturdy shoes, weather wear and a small rucksack.

THU 29 AUG SAXONS Wiltshire Heritage Museum, 41

SEPTEMBER SAT 31 AUG-SUN 1 SEP BRISTOL INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF KITES & AIR CREATIONS Ashton Court Estate, Long Ashton, Bristol BS8 3TQ. 0117 977 2002, www.kite-festival.org.uk, free • One of Europe’s biggest kite festivals, this event boasts giant 3D creatures, action-packed aerial battles, synchronised stunt routines, power kites and ground-based air creations.

LISTINGS BY RICHARD HATTERSLEY, ALEX SAUNDERS AND LAURA EASLICK

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Welcome to the great

Brean Leisure Park

outdoors!

Give your family a great lungful of fresh air this summer at the West’s open air attractions. Richard Hattersley is your guide round everything from country houses and adventure gardens to railways and caves.

W

are connected by winding passageways. Kitted in a helmet and a lamp, visitors clamber into the historic workings.

hether you want to hang out with the monkeys, soar with the wildfowl or revisit the Romans, the West Country has some of the most exciting, family-friendly attractions in Britain. This summer they’re all keen to offer families some of their most memorable moments of the holiday season so, if you’re planning a day out in the next few months, keep hold of this bumper list for inspiration.

AVON VALLEY COUNTRY PARK Pixash Lane, Keynsham, Bristol, BS31 1TP. 0117 986 4929, www. avonvalleycountrypark.com, 10am-6pm open every day, £8 adults/£7.50 children (2-16 years)/children under 2 free.

Avon Valley has everything from the cuddly rabbits to the exotic ostrich and leaping kangaroo.

There’s adventure as well, with a play park, go-karting and crazy golf.

BIBURY TROUT FARM Arlington, Bibury, Cirencester, GL7 5NL. 01285 740215, www. biburytroutfarm.co.uk, 8am5pm, £3.95 adults/£2.95 children/£12.50 family.

Founded just over 100 years ago by naturalist Arthur Severn to restock local rivers, Bibury now covers 15 acres of the beautiful Coln Valley in the Cotswolds.

Children will love watching trout

Bibury Trout Farm

leap while there’s a large variety of other wildlife on the farm.

BRAYDON MAIZE MAZE Braydon Manor, Braydon, Swindon, SN5 0AG. 01666 800001, www. braydonmaizemaze.co.uk, 10am7pm (Mon-Fri), 10am-6pm (SatSun), £6 adults/£4 children/ £18 family/under 3s free.

Lose yourself in the Wiltshire countryside in this agricultural labyrinth. Summer openings depends on the growth of the crop so check website for details.

BREAN LEISURE PARK Brean sands, Somerset, TA8 2QY. 01278 751595, www.funcitybrean. co.uk.

Avon Valley Country Park

Enjoy a fabulous array of rides at Fun City, Brean Down.

Alternatively, tour the Sooty TV studio and meet the wandwielding bear and his friends, Sweep and Sue, in person. With a mix of thrill rides and children’s rides, there is something here for all ages.

BRISTOL CITY SIGHTSEEING 0742 578 8123, www. citysightseeingbristol.co.uk, various tours run 9am-5pm.

Never before has taking the bus been such fun. Enjoy Bristol’s iconic sites from the upper deck of an open-top bus. The infectious enthusiasm of the tour guides helps elucidate the architecture of the city and world famous landmarks like the ss Great Britain or the Clifton Suspension Bridge. The hop-on bus service allows you to take part in other days out with a discount that you collect from the driver.

COTSWOLD WILDLIFE PARK Bradwell Grove, Burford, Oxfordshire OX18 4JP. 01993 823006, www. cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk, 10am6pm, £14 adults/£9.50 children (3-16 years)/children under 3 free.

See eye to eye with a giraffe, or watch a penguin’s feeding time.

There are also lemurs, lions, reptiles, amphibians and birds from around the world. Daily activities including a children’s farmyard, and an informative talk at Lemur feeding time. A railway helps you see everything the park has to offer.

DEAN FOREST RAILWAY The Orchard, Woolaston, Gloucestershire, GL15 4ET. 0159 484 5840, www. deanforestrailway.co.uk.

Set in the beautiful Forest of Dean, this railway harks back to a bygone era. A range of locomotives come to life thanks to the enthusiasm of the drivers.

CLEARWELL CAVES The Rocks, Coleford, Gloucestershire, GL16 8JR. 0159 483 2535, www. clearwellcaves.com, 10am-5pm daily, £6.50 adults/£5.50 children/£20 family.

Follow in the footsteps of a generation of miners and explore some of Britain’s oldest mine workings, put to use in a recent episode of Dick Whittington Farm Park ‘Doctor Who’. Nine caverns 18

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01793 780555, www.farmergows. co.uk, 10am-5pm, £7 adults, £6 children, £24 family.

Get a real hands-on experience feeding and petting the farmyard animals, from the chickens to the pigs. Children can also spend hours playing in the play area or clambering up the bales of hay, where there are daily treasure hunts. Budding young farmers have the choice of over 30 tractors to drive.

Look out for special events, such as ‘Thomas and his Friends’ making a special stop in August.

And there’s the opportunity to drive the train.

HORSEWORLD Staunton Manor Farm, Staunton Ln, Bristol, Avon BS14 0QL. 01275 540173, www.horseworld.org.uk, 10am-5pm, £7.95 adults/£5.95 children/£24.95 family/children under 3 free.

A wonderful sanctuary for horses and donkeys, many of whom have been ill-treated in their previous homes. Meet the rescued animals, and take part in the feeding.

Children can round off their visit in the indoor play barn.

DICK WHITTINGTON FARM PARK Little London, Longhope, Gloucestershire, GL17 0PH. 01452 831000, www.dickwhittington.org, 10am-5pm daily, £5 adults/£6.50 children (3-10 yrs old)/£5.50 under 3s/babies free/£22 family pass.

Dick Whittington’s famous feline travelling companion would surely approve of the fun children can have with the friendly animals. With an Aquarium room, Shetland ponies, deer and all the farm yard animals, this is a great family attraction. Also an indoor play area with electronic go karting and tractor rides.

LACOCK Lacock, near Chippenham, SN15 2LG, 01249 730459, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock, £12 adults/£6 children/£30 family.

Unspoilt, historic buildings and picturesque streets are just some of the reasons why Lacock is beloved of local people and filmmakers alike. Set in the heart of this National Trust protected village is the historic Abbey, the perfect backdrop for a tranquil stroll around the grounds. One of Lacock’s finest residents was William Henry Talbot, inventor of photography, whose work is showcased in the museum named after him.

FARMER GOW’S ACTIVITY FARM Fernham Road, Longcot, nr Faringdon, Oxfordshire, SN7 7PR.

LONGLEAT Longleat, Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 7NW. www.longleat.co.uk, 0198 584 4400, online prices

Longleat

Review Bowood House and Gardens www.bowood-house.co.uk We pull into the Bowood House car park beneath glowering skies, having been pummelled by rain on the short journey from Bristol along the M4. But, as Cath, Joe (our three-year-old son), and I wrestle with wellies, galoshes and a frankly inadequate umbrella, the heavens take pity on us.

The rain holds off for most of the afternoon, allowing us to enjoy the considerable outdoor delights of Bowood Gardens.

This is very much an attraction of two halves. Bowood’s spectacular outdoor climbing area, complete with a wonderful galleon and aerial walkway, offers challenges for children right up to their teenage years.

Joe, obviously still pre-school, clambers up ladders and across ‘wobbly bridges’ to his heart’s content and enjoys hurling himself down the abundance of slides. ‘This is fun!’ he exclaims delightedly as he bounces off one helter-skelter creation, only to hurtle back up one of a forest of ladders.

With the sun lingering a little longer than expected there’s even the opportunity to spread a blanket on the ground and watch him on his one-child climbing mission.

Tearing Joe away from the adventure park so Mum and Dad can get their history fix (the second half of the journey) is made a little easier

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Horseworld, Bristol

£25.07adults (15-59yrs)/£17.85 children..

Hold onto your wing mirrors as you enter the infamous Monkey DriveThru! Longleat is one of the most authentic ways of experiencing wildlife, as you drive past giraffes, rhinos, lions and much more. Now you can ride the Deadly Safari, a spin off from the popular BBC television show Deadly 60. Be sure to check out the new Penguin Island and Stingray Bay which have just opened. Plus a host of nonanimal entertainment.

MARWELL WILDLIFE Thompson’s Ln, Colden Common, Winchester, Hampshire, SO21 1JH. 01962 777407, www.marwell.org. uk, 10am, £18 adult/£14 children (3-16 years)/£60 family.

Giraffes roam free in the ‘African Valley’ while dwarf crocodiles lurk in the Tropical World, while the Wallabies inhabit the ‘Australian Bush’. A trip to Marwell takes you around the globe to get close to the wonders of nature. The 140 acre park is home to over 170 exotic and endangered species in beautiful landscaped surroundings.

There’s an adventure playground as well.

MOJO ACTIVE Over Court Farm, Over Lane, Almondsbury, Bristol, BS32 4DF. 01454 660075, www.mojoactive. co.uk, see website for holiday club prices and times.

Turn off the computer and try something more exhilarating and certainly more muddy. A collection of obstacle courses, a tunnel maze, a 100m zip wire and a 7m tall climbing wall. Instructors help with disciplines including archery.

OLD WARDOUR CASTLE Nr Tisbury, Salisbury, Wiltshire ,SP3 6RR. 01747 870487 www.englishheritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/ old-wardour-castle, 10am-6pm, £4.10 adult/£2.50 children (5-15 years)/members free.

Damaged in the English Civil War, this ruined castle provides a perfect setting for a family day out. Explore the grounds and climb the turrets, finding clues in the fun trail.

PRIOR PARK LANDSCAPE GARDEN Ralph Allen Drive, Bath, BA2 5AH. 0122 583 3422, www.nationaltrust. org.uk/prior-park, 11am-5.30pm, £6.30 adults/£3.50 children/£16 family.

by a strategically placed trampoline.

A few bounces later, we pass through a gate to the side of the house, and into the awe-inspiring Capability Browndesigned gardens, whose geometric lines and classical spaces are horticultural poetry. The house’s façade is light and airy – not intimidating like so many country houses – and we coax Joe into the 18th century orangery. It’s slightly nervewracking keeping him under control amid the classical sculptures, but he is certainly impressed by the tiger-skin carpet in the opulent living room: it’s still early days to explain the niceties of wildlife conservation to him but I do my best.

After a thoroughly satisfying afternoon for both adults and child, there’s time for a peep at the animals in Tractor Ted’s farm, plus a zip round on the pedal tractors, only whisking the little one away with the promise of a return visit.

(Mike Gartside)

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Welcome to the great

outdoors!

CONTINUED

Set in a sweeping valley with wonderful views of Bath, this 18th century garden is home to wildlife, from badgers and deer, to herons and swans in the peaceful lake. The summerhouse is a perfect retreat to relax and take in the scenery.

ROMAN BATHS AND MUSEUM Roman Baths and Museum, Stall Street, Bath, Somerset, BA1 1LZ. www.romanbaths.co.uk, 01225 477785.

The historic focal point of Bath, this is an important attraction for locals and tourists alike.

The centrepiece, the Roman baths filled with hot spa water forms a backdrop for costumed characters who give you a vivid idea of what life was like for the Romans.

Old Wardour Castle

ST AUGUSTINE’S FARM Arlingham, Gloucestershire, GL2 7JR. 01452 740277, www. staugustinesfarm.co.uk, 11am-5pm daily, £5.50 adults/£4.50 children.

On this fully working farm, you can enjoy milking the cows or feeding the goats. The farm has designated picnic areas for you to enjoy, while children can have fun in the play barn or the adventure park.

St Augustine’s Farm

designed by Henry Hoare II, are magnificent, as is the cascade into the lake.

TYNTESFIELD Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1NX. 0127 546 1900, www.nationaltrust.org. uk/tyntesfield, £13.20 adult/£6.60 children/£32.90 family ticket for the whole property or £8.10 adult/£4 child/£20.25 family to view the garden and estate.

A fine example of Victorian Gothic architecture built by fertiliser magnate William Gibbs, this National Trust property offers a number of ways to have a fabulous day out. From splendid period rooms indoors to the glasshouses and gazebos in the gardens, there’s plenty for the family to enjoy.

SEAQUARIUM Marine Parade, Weston-superMare, North Somerset, BS23 1BE. 01934 613361, www.seaquarium. co.uk, 10am-5pm, £7.99 adults/£5.99 children/under 3s free.

It’s not hard to immerse yourself in ocean life, with this Aquarium on Weston’s beach. Once inside, there are eight different zones from tropical fish to the open top ray display. Heading to the underwater tunnel, you’ll find tropical fish and sharks gracefully passing over your head. Both educational and entertaining.

SLIMBRIDGE Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT. 01453 891900, www.wwt.org. uk, £11.60 adults/£6.30.children.

The 325 hectares of wetland is home to a wealth of resident and migratory wildlife. After admiring the birds, you can try a canoe safari across the lakes yourself (£5 for adults, children go free).

There’s a new wild garden, recently featured at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Check the website or Roundabout for activities such as talks or workshops.

Westonbirt Arboretum

STOURHEAD Nr. Mere, BA12 6QD, 0174 784 1152, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ stourhead/, 9am-7pm (garden), 11am-4.30pm (house).

Surrounding the house is the tranquil gardens and lake. The views and buildings of the garden takes inspiration from ancient Rome, including the spectacular Pantheon. The buildings,

WESTONBIRT ARBORETUM Tetbury, Gloucestershire, GL8 8QS, 0166 688 0220, www. forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt, 9am-6pm weekdays, 8am-6pm weekends £8 adults and kids go free until 1 Sep. Boasting over 17 miles of accessible paths, with 16,000 trees for children to explore, this vast woodland is perfect to take a picnic, or leisurely walk. As well as the trees, the arboretum is a wonderful natural showcase of the flowers that flourish on British grasslands in the summer.

Stourhead PRIMARY TIMES

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

d r a o b n Pi Magic Jack Jack Stephens is an entertainer of consummate skill.

More than just a magician, Jack brings real variety to his live performances.

When it comes to entertaining children, Jack supports his magic with his unique presentations of puppetry, balloon modelling, singing to his own guitar accompaniment, games and origami.

Children are enthralled by this diverse combination of entertainment, and Jack’s performance has ensured great parties attended by the children of celebrities such as Bob Geldof, Stuart Pearce, Jools Holland, Jack Russell, Jeremy Guscott, Phil de Glanville, Barry Gibb, Annie Lennox, Midge Ure and many others.

Jack is a member of the Magic Circle, The International Brotherhood of Magicians and Equity.

Ffi: 42 Netherstreet, Bromham, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 2DW T: 01380 850453 E: jackstephens@ abra-cadabra.co.uk W: www.jackstephens.co.uk

Crazy crafting Salisbury Arts Centre will be getting children’s creative juices flowing this summer holiday with an array of brand new one-off workshops for all ages.

Textiles artist and workshop leader Sharon Kearley will be running workshops for children aged 3-13 years over the course of a week, beginning on Tuesday 20 August. Try your hand at wet felting techniques to create treasures and trinkets or concoct a crazy creature. From Hipporaffes to Rhinophants, let your imagination run wild.

You will also have the chance to revamp an old T-shirt or bag in a special printing workshop exploring creative textile design skills from wax resist to stencilling and block printing.

Alternatively, create something completely new using peg looms and other materials in a weaving workshop.

Find out more about these new oneoff workshops and returning favourites, Play in a Day and An Animated Experience, by visiting the website.

Prices start at just £10.

Ffi: Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin Street, Salisbury SP1 3UT T: 01722 321744 W: www.salisburyartscentre. co.uk

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Parents’ & teachers’

news, education & contacts

Go, go, go!

Go-Kart Party run gokart parties indoors and outdoors for four- to nine-yearolds at leisure centres across Wiltshire.

The karts are electric so there are no fumes and the little ones can use them safely and under supervision in an organised party.

In tough economic times, why not have a joint party and halve the cost?

Go-Kart Party are fully insured and have CRB-checked operators. They are only closed on 25-26 December and 1 January, so even Christmas birthdays can be accommodated. They already have bookings for November.

Go-Kart Party attend fetes, carnivals and family corporate days and have many bookings at school fetes for the summer months. So don’t miss out on an attraction that will bring in children and families to your event. With 10% returned to your school or charity, it’s a fun way to raise money.

Ffi: T: 07810 113457 E: aim@go-kart party.co.uk W: www.gokartpartywiltshire.com

Summer Fish-tival Sat 20 Jul-Sun 1 Sep

Dive in to a summer of fun events and themed activities at Bristol Aquarium over the school holidays; discover the amazing aquatic animals that live around our coastline, from elegant seahorses and acrobatic octopuses to graceful sharks and giant stingrays.

The aquarium offers a whistlestop tour of the world’s oceans, to find out where our more exotic fishy residents come from and learn about the science of the seas.

Ffi: W: www.bristolaquarium.co.uk

Your Quest shot LaserQuest is Swindon’s premier laser-tag centre. It’s safe and clean, and whether you’re 6 or 66, you’ll love the adrenaline-pumping exhilaration of stalking your opponents and unleashing a volley of laser fire in the battle-zone of the next century. The experience is exhilarating and immersive – and there’s fun lurking around every corner. It’s no surprise that this interactive entertainment is a number one choice with adventurers young and old.

Located at Shaw Ridge Leisure Park in West Swindon, LaserQuest is less than five minutes’ drive from junction 16 on the M4. With a fantastic new arena, its newly improved facilities include a soft play area and free car parking.

There’s a bus stop a short walk away at the Link Centre/ASDA supermarket in West Swindon. Visit the website for details of party packages, youth group discounts and the Sunday Kids’ Club.

Ffi: LaserQuest, Shaw Ridge, Whitehill Way, Swindon SN5 7DN T: 01793 758758 W: www.lqswindon.co.uk

Stourhead hours

Visit Stourhead this summer for a fantastic family day out. With a range of indoor and outdoor events there is something to do whether it rains or shines.

There are special family events taking place with tree climbing at weekends led by expert tree climbers, Forest Friday events where you can explore the woods, or get crafty with the ‘create your own work of art’ events.

You can also discover Stourhead at your own pace with a walk around the garden, and the treasure-packed mansion house has its very own summer trail.

Stourhead also has some of the National Trust’s 50 things to do before you’re 11 3/4, so don’t forget to tick them off when you visit.

Ffi: W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ stourhead

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

d r a o b n i P

Parents’ & teachers’

news, education & contacts

Water babies Be a Slimbridge Nature Explorer

This summer you and your family can become ‘Nature Explorers’ at Slimbridge Wetland Centre in Gloucestershire.

The centre has a whole host of fun activities planned for this summer holidays for children interested in nature which will guarantee them close encounters with wildlife.

Each week has a different theme including mammals, insects and nighttime wildlife. These fun activities are hands-on and encourage children to use their investigative and reasoning skills.

As well as the Nature Explorer activities, families can take part in daily pond dipping sessions at the Pond Zone area throughout the summer. All the equipment is provided at these free, supervised sessions which run from 2-3.30pm. The raised ponds at WWT Slimbridge come alive in the summer with aquatic creatures including water boat men, pond skaters, snails, bloodworms and fish.

Ffi: W: www.wwt.org.uk/slimbridge

A simple solution to lost property.

My Name Label makes it easier for children to take responsibility for their belongings and avoid the lost property box with eye-catching labels that you can design yourself from a range of lettering styles and pictures.

Personalised name stickers are ideal for lunch boxes, drink containers, bags, books - anything with a clean smooth surface, and they are microwave and dishwasher safe on most plastics.

There’s no need to worry about reapplying washed off marker pen! Also available are iron-on clothing labels, shoe labels, bag tags, school book labels and more.

My Name Label can also be used as a fundraiser with minimal effort.

Secure on-line ordering available.

Ffi: T: 0870 850 7897 W: www. mynamelabel.co.uk

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Cotswold Wildlife Park has welcomed twins Pippin and Merry, the latest additions to its capybara family (the largest rodent species in existence). The twins were born last month to mother Pluto and father Toby. The best description of these enormous rodents is by zoologist Desmond Morris, who said they are “a cross between a guinea pig and a hippopotamus”. The scientific name for the capybara is Hydrochoerus, which means “water horse”.

Curator of Cotswold Wildlife Park Jamie Craig says: “We are always pleased to welcome capybara babies at the park. They can be incredibly playful and it is a joy to watch them explore and make use of their makeshift ‘diving boards’ as they practise their diving skills in the pond they share with our Brazilian tapirs.”

Ffi: Cotswold Wildlife Park, Bradwell Grove, Burford, Oxfordshire OX18 4JP T: 01993 823006 W: www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk

Choice is the key Looking to entertain the children over the summer holidays?

Why not take them to Monkton’s Summer Holiday Activity Camp?

The individuality of the childcare programme at Monkton is the key to its success. It offers flexible childcare for the parents in a fun and stimulating environment for the children. The highly qualified staff offer a daily, tailor-made programme of activities to suit everyone attending each day.

Choice is the key for children on these camps. The leaders design each session around the children’s interests and abilities, with emphasis placed on promoting self confidence and self expression, always with a large helping of fun.

Monkton also offers more specialised courses throughout the summer including: ‘Characters, Create a Play in a Week’, Bath Rugby’s ‘Up and Unders’, Basketball Coaching, Rookie Life guarding and, of course, the everpopular ‘Come Bake with Us!’ All these courses are very popular so please book early to avoid disappointment.

Ffi: T: 01225 721116

Aquatic Activities It’s summertime and families can cool off at the Splash Spectacular in Swindon pools. There are five swimming pools equipped with diving boards which feature kids’ sessions, lane swimming, fitness classes and specialist swimming sessions. Why not take advantage of the family of four swim from £10?

During the school holiday, extra junior activities take place including an adventurous climbing camp and a fun community games tour. Children can putt their way into the crazy golf activities and golf taster sessions or spook themselves silly with the Creepy House summer reading challenge. Star Track athletics will give children an adrenalin rush and the open air theatre shows at Lydiard Park will give them a well-deserved break, full of entertainment. There are sport camps, holiday camps and tennis camps and many other exhilarating activities on offer.

Ffi: Pools available at: Dorcan Recreation Complex, Health Hydro, Link Centre and Highworth Recreation Centre W: www.leisureinswindon.co.uk

Farmyard fun There’s lots of traditional (and educational) farm fun at Farmer Gow’s, near Faringdon, this summer. Bring a picnic and make a day of it: there are covered picnic areas. Or relax and enjoy a tasty treat, like a fabulous cream tea in the Farm Tea Room. Meet The Animals is at 11am and 2pm every day, and there are competitions, lots of summer games, an adventure play area, pedal tractor yard and the chance to walk a goat or a ferret, tickle a piglet, bottle-feed a goat kid and more.

Farmer Gow’s is close to White Horse Hill, Uffington, and not far from the Vale and Downland Museum, Wantage.

All the family can stay and play all day – and under-3s go free. See the 20% off voucher elsewhere in this issue of Primary Times.

Ffi: Farmer Gow’s, Fernham Road, Longcot, nr Faringdon SN7 7PR T: 01793 780555 E: enquiries@farmergows.co.uk W: www.farmergows. co.uk

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Adver tising Feature

In a class of its own Clarendon Academy is a thriving school, created to deliver outstanding education for all children who attend.

Appointed as headteacher in June 2011, Mr Stenton says: “I was delighted when we were graded by OFSTED in October 2012 as a ‘Good school with outstanding leadership’. Our subsequent step was to join the Education Fellowship in December 2012 and begin the next chapter of the school’s history as an academy, aiming to go beyond the expected in delivering superb education for children and young people.”

The academy is committed to the Clarendon Academy’s new head, Mr Stenton highest standards for every child, providing excellent teaching and learning to ensure that all students reach their full potential. Clarendon is a disciplined establishment where students are happy and safe, respected and respectful, superbly behaved and always encouraged to ‘aim high’. Excellent schools are supportive schools and Clarendon prides itself on knowing students as individuals so that they can be successful and enjoy school from joining in Year 7 to graduating from Sixth Form in Year 13. The Clarendon promise is that every child matters. Only those staff with a commitment to outstanding work are employed by the academy. It really is a transformational place to learn and work.

“As an academy,” says Mr Stenton, “we are an independent school and we organise learning slightly differently from the traditional secondary school. Our student groupings, our curriculum and our lessons are all tailored to ensure that we are able to deliver exactly what our students need to become successful adults.”

• Ffi Clarendon Academy Frome Road, Trowbridge, Wiltshire BA14 0DJ T: 01225 762686 W: www.theclarendoncollege.com

Adver tising Feature

Dance, then!

Dancing helps children develop confidence, grace and poise, starting as early as three years of age and continuing into adulthood.

Established in 1994 for ballroom and Latin American dance, Dancers of Chippenham has built upon its enviable reputation as the leading school in the Chippenham area and now offers the widest variety of dance genres to suit children and young people from tots to teens. Ballet, tap, modern, jazz, ballroom and Latin, as well as regional classes in Irish dance, Scottish and Highland dance, Kathak (northern Indian dance) and Bollywood are available.

Children’s classes form a vital part of the school’s life and future.

Dancers of Chippenham always strives to create an environment that is going to get the best out of the children, who benefit by enjoying their dancing in a child-friendly atmosphere. The professionally trained teachers continue their own studies so that they stay up to date with the latest techniques in dance.

The school is now a centre of excellence, with purpose-built studios suited to each individual dance style. There is also a shop for all the clothes and shoes required for your dance class. All teachers are CRB checked and qualified to teach with the United Kingdom Alliance of Professional Teachers of Dance, the Imperial society of Teachers of Dance, the Irish Dancing Commission.

• Ffi Dancers of Chippenham Cricketts Lane Industrial Estate, Cricketts Lane, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 3EQ T: 01249 661131 W: www.dancersofchippenham.co.uk

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Adver tising Feature

A perfect day out Summer is a great time to visit Lacock. The garden and grounds of Lacock Abbey are in full bloom and the green canopies of the woodland garden turn the area into an adventure paradise for imaginative explorers: rope swing, den-building spots and huge ancient tree stumps to climb on included.

It’s also a great place to tick off items from the ‘50 things to do before you’re 11 3/4’ list, such as fossil hunting and daisy chain making (visit 50things.org.uk to sign up).

At the abbey you can discover 800 years of history, from the nuns who once lived there to a medieval crook in Tudor times and the invention of photography in the 19th century. It’s a great place to visit whatever the weather. The medieval cloisters have featured as a film location, including the Harry Potter films, so why not pretend you are a wizard roaming the corridors of Hogwarts?

Afterwards you can have a picnic in the garden or picnic area or grab some lunch or sweet treats in the tea-room and explore the village. The shallow waters of the Bide Brook near the Packhorse Bridge are perfect for paddling and splashing around in on a hot summer’s day.

Don’t forget to check the listings for some special summer events and monthly-changing family trails.

Lacock Abbey, Village and the Fox Talbot Museum are near Chippenham. Normal admission applies. National Trust members and under-5s go free. Open daily (abbey rooms closed on Tuesdays) from 10.30am. Visit nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock or call 01249 730459 for more information.

• Ffi Lacock near Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 2LG T: 01249 730459 W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock

Adver tising Feature

Get Smart!

Most of us can still remember our first day at a new school, often for all the wrong reasons. You can help your child have a positive experience by thinking about that first day well in advance. The journey to a new school is often overlooked in the flurry of buying uniforms and sorting out timetables, but it is a really important factor in making a good start.

Do you really need to take the car? Children who walk, scoot or cycle to school are more alert and attentive than those who travel by car, and the daily exercise is good for both you and your child. When you walk, you also have the opportunity to help your child develop vital skills to keep them safe when out and about. Why not get together with friends and neighbours and take it in turns to walk the children to school?

If you do decide to drive to school, keep the area around the school gates safe for everyone by parking a little further away and walking. Ensure children get out of the car on the pavement side, never into the road.

Many young people see the start of secondary school as an opportunity to spread their wings a little, and start doing things for themselves. However, they (and you!) may not be quite ready to launch off onto the streets without some help and guidance. Take a look at the Smart Route website with your child and talk about their journey before the new term starts.

• Ffi T: 01793 466335 W: www.smartroute.org.uk E: stars@ swindon.gov.uk

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Arty Barty Hello Kids!

Thank you so much for the wonderful pictures you send me . The standard is always high so please try again if your entry didn’t get published.

This summer I have teamed up with our friends at SeaQuarium in Westonsuper-Mare, who have very kindly offered a family ticket to three lucky artists who send me their best painting of a clown fish and his friends. If you’re stuck, you may remember a clown fish was the subject of a famous animated film a few years ago.

Please send your pictures to: Arty Barty, Venue Publishing, BN&Media, Temple Way, Bristol, BS99 7HD, or email high resolution jpegs to my editor, mike.gartside@venue. co.uk. Don’t forget to put your name, age, full home postal address and school on the back: deadline Monday 17 June.

Last issue, I asked you to send in your pictures of ‘The crew putting to sea in the ss Great Britain’. Well done to the three winners who receive a family ticket to this fabulous maritime attraction.

Scott Granger, E Primary Scho7, Preshute C of ol, Marlborough, Wilts What a bright an hire of the ss Great Brd lively painting itain! Scott has captured the depth of the water brilliantly by using curved brush strokes to create wa ve s.

His bold style makes the ship see and I like the wa m big and powerful y that the people really small next look to it. The detail the people’s colou red hats is fantasof tic!

WINNER!

Nicholas Nikiforou, 6, Kewstoke Primary School, Weston-super-Mare A beautifully-drawn image of the vessel using wax crayons. I like the contrast between the bright blue sea and the vibrant pink sky; the image is powerful and captures this historic moment well. Nicholas’s attention to detail in his drawing of the boat is excellent.

WINNER!

Have fun!

Arty

Alys Wood, 6, Henleaze Infant School, Henleaze This is a cheerful and ene , Bristol cially in the decoration rgetic drawing full of colour and detail, esp earo und the hull. The passenger on board are particularl s and sailors and lots of thought has y well drawn; their faces are full of expressio I also like the colourful gone into the design of their clothes and hat n flags, which really stand s. powerful ship. out against the large,

PS. I’m so sorry but, because of the large numbers of entries, we can’t return your pictures, so please make a copy of anything precious to you before you send it.

WORD PUZZLE

FIND THE LETTERS TO SPELL OUT SEASIDE THINGS

Hidden below are: sandcastle, kite, icelolly, lifeguard, buckets, spade, shell, surfboard, seagull, boat, starfish, ocean, crab, sun, rock.

B U C K E D K I T E

T S D E L H N S L T

R S A T U A G R

C E L O

S L F C

E D R E

P B A G A D A N

U R F B

T S A C

A O B E

E F I L

L L Y Y

S C S N

K B C U

I R A S

O A R D

D N A S

R O C K

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A S P O

Kimberly Ryan, 7, St. , ool Sampson’s Infant Sche Cricklade, Wiltshir vessel in Kimberly has drawn theg the dark great detail, brightenin sunny hull with a cheerful and ting facts background. The interesn at the have been neatly writteand she bottom of the drawing the screw has vividly highlighted te her propeller in red to illustra s are also text. The colourful flag eye-catching.

WINNER!

Chiharu Foster, 8, Elm lea School, Westbury-on Junior -Trym, Bristol Chiharu has bravely dra ship from the bow, or frown the is much harder than a nt, which shows that she undersprofile, and tands simple perspective. She has of time and care into thisput lots and I especially like the picture has captured the momeway she people are boarding thent where their luggage. See if you ship with the smiley face looking can spot out of the window!

PRIMARY TIMES

7/2/2013 3:43:57 PM

or

Laura Easlick, Zhenja May and Richard Hattersley review the new releases.

Understanding epilepsy Honestly written and thoughtfully illustrated by seven-year-old Layla, whose mother is epileptic, this pocket-sized book is both touching and educational. Full of practical advice about how to look after a relative who suffers from epileptic seizures, it is beautifully and accurately written by a child for other children. The book, shown to Pomegranate Books by Layla’s mother, offers detailed information about how children can help an epileptic relative without coming across as difficult or frightening; Layla uses the advice she has been given to remind other children to keep calm and follow the instructions given in her book.

The illustrations, although simple and child-like, are an accurate representation of each scenario that Layla or other children in a similar situation could be faced with. The book does not only mention how to cope with a typical seizure but also shows how everyday activities such as cooking, bath-time and using transport are affected by epilepsy. This reminds the reader that the book is written by a young expert and we see the world through her eyes. Sensitive and enlightening, this book is ideal for any child, and indeed adult, dealing with or wanting to learn about epilepsy. (Laura Easlick) Epilepsy Book For Kids by Layla Reid, Pomegranate Books, £6.50, www.pomegranatebooks.co.uk

H.I.V.E. of activity

Pony tales

In the eighth adventure from the popular H.I.V.E series, the protagonist Otto is expelled from the Higher Institute of Villainous Education, a school which makes J.K. Rowling’s Hogwarts seem tame. When Anastasia Furan, leader of the Disciples (a criminal gang) captures Otto’s friend Laura, Otto proceeds to look for her, aware of Furan’s brutal plans. The adrenalin-filled adventure takes the reader on an exciting journey from the canals of Venice to the wastes of Antarctica.

A guaranteed page-turner, this fastpaced story will have the young reader hooked from the first chapter. The narrative and the futuristic characters feel like they have leapt out of a computer game. Combine this with unexpected humour and it’s easy to see this is ultimate escapism for boys. (Laura Easlick)

Fans of My Little Pony franchise will adore the new Princess Ponies series, detailing the whirlwind adventure of a young girl, Pippa, who leaves her family in order to save the enchanted world Chevalia, inhabited by talking horses. The ponies become an endearing surrogate family to Pippa, herself an embodiment of every young girl’s fantasy. Pippa’s journey teaches us the importance of bravery and family, making great reading for girls aged 7and over who want to delve into a fantastical story independently.

With interesting fictional interviews and news bulletin sections, the books add a sense of fantastical realism and familiarise young readers with the formats of newspaper reporting. With six books in the series, young princesses are sure to busily read each exciting episode of the magical journey so far. (Zhenja May)

Deadlock by Mark Walden, Bloomsbury, £6.99, www.bloomsbury.com

Princess Ponies by Chloe Ryder, Bloomsbury, £4.99 each, www.bloomsbury.com

Right said Fred

Uneasy tiger

With colourful illustrations and a humorous storyline, the dopey character of Fred the dog who just won’t go to sleep could easily become a children’s bedtime classic. In various beautifully drawn and painted images, Fred bounces from garden to bedroom to bath in a mischievous manner mimicking (for parents) the defiance of children not wanting to go to bed. The large book with short and clear text is perfect for young children to read together with their parents. Children will be able to distinguish where to put emphasis when reading the book aloud. Illustrations of Fred jump across the pages, leaving cliff hangers for young readers who will be compelled to turn the page.

Writer and illustrator Yasmeen Ismail’s debut picture book is an amalgamation of influences from her own childhood books, which will whet younger readers’ appetite for reading. (Zhenja May)

How do you handle a tiger with a toothache? Following a trip to their own dentist, Tom and his sister Sophie become young tooth detectives at London Zoo. After inspecting the animals’ mouths, the children soon come across a tiger in severe need of dental assistance. But, back home, they face another challenge as another carnivore leaves mangled cabbage leaves around the house. The latest instalment in Adam Frost and Mark Chamber’s ‘Zoo Story’ series, this playful book follows the adventures of Tom and Sophie whose parents work at London Zoo. Refreshingly, it’s not anthropomorphic, presenting animals as they really are, rather than imbuing them with humanstyle emotions. Suitable for children aged 7-9, this toothy tale takes a fun look at the iconic zoo and is packed with informative animal facts. (Richard Hattersley)

Time for Bed, Fred! Yasmeen Ismail, Bloomsbury, paperback and ebook £6.99, hardback £10.99, www.bloomsbury.com

Hide! The Tiger’s Mouth is Open Wide! by Adam Frost, Bloomsbury, £4.99, www.bloomsbury.com

PRIMARY TIMES

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PRIMARY TIMES

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