Primary Times Wiltshire, February Half Term 2022

PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN FREE INSIDE: WHAT’S O N WHERE GUIDE 34,000 COPIES FOR FAMILIES OF

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FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022 SAT 19 FEBRUARY-FRI 8 APRIL ISS.134

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From crafts to clams to clowning, it’s one giant family party at The Pound Arts Centre this half term. P4

Party at

The Pound! + SPECI A L OF F ERS

WILTS LEISURE & WESSEX WATER

+ M USIC F E AT U RE

CHOOSE YOUR FIRST INSTRUMENT

+ TOP LOCAL STORIES

LONGLEAT’S NEWCOMER & OTHER NEWS

DAYS OUT • EDUCAT ION • COMPET I T IONS • FAMILY FUN

The Party Checklist Everything you need to know to party like a pro!

Everyone knows how to throw a party. From invitations to booking a venue to ge‫מּ‬ing a cake, it’s easy to plan out ahead of time and feel like you’re ready for everything. However, sometimes the smaller details of throwing a party can get lost in the planning process and forgo‫מּ‬en about until it’s too late. This is why Primary Times has created a checklist of 10 small yet crucially important details to always remember so that you can party like a pro!

HAVE AN END TIME ☐

Parties that run on too long can be difficult for parents. If you make sure to state an end time on the party invitations, everyone will be able to plan ahead and be sure not to be late from the start.

CHECK FOR FOOD ALLERGIES ☐

Nobody wants an accidental allergic reaction to occur at a party. Give details on the invitations to contact you if any child has a food allergy that you need to know about. This will help you when choosing what food to offer to guests ahead of time.

DON’T FORGET THE ADULTS ☐

Children’s parties can sometimes be a li‫מּ‬le boring for adults. If they aren’t simply dropping their children off at the party, they are usually si‫מּ‬ing around, waiting until it’s over. Try offering

02 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022

alternatives for adults to have a fun time too.

Providing refreshments such as tea and coffee, and playing games such as charades or Heads Up will help adults get to know each other and get into a fun, party mood. Maybe they’ll even end up hi‫מּ‬ing the dance floor.

INVITE REMINDERS ☐

DATES OF OTHER PARTIES ☐

A FULLY CHARGED PHONE ☐

Sometimes children have to make a difficult decision of whose party to go to when they are faced with two parties on the same day. To stop this from happening, ask around with other parents to get a feel of when children’s parties are happening and book your date accordingly.

REMEMBER THE LITTLE ITEMS ☐

The worst part about a party is when you forget the li‫מּ‬le items. Candles for the cake, a tablecloth to catch messy food, items for the party bags, matches or a lighter to light the cake, bin bags for the aﬞermath. Be prepared for everything by writing out all the small items you’ll need for the party.

CARPOOLS ☐

Travel can sometimes be a hassle, especially when the destination is to a venue nobody has been to before. Make sure you know how everyone will be ge‫מּ‬ing to the party and that they are confident in doing so. Carpooling might be a good option to arrange for some a‫מּ‬endees.

With everything parents have to think about each day, a li‫מּ‬le reminder of an upcoming party could be a big help. Sending out some quick online reminders will prompt people to RSVP sooner so that you can be certain of who is a‫מּ‬ending.

Whether it’s for taking pictures, finding out if someone can’t make it last minute, or simply to tell the time, a fully charged phone can be of valuable use at a party. Try to also make sure that your phone isn’t on silence and that the memory isn’t full before you start the day.

WHAT TO WEAR ☐

Be specific about what children should wear on the invitations. If it’s an active party, state that comfortable clothing and running shoes would be best. If it’s a themed party, mention costumes or a clothing colour scheme.

CHECK IN ON YOUR CHILD ☐

We can all get swept up in the rush of hosting a party but it is important to remember to check in on the person the party is for. If your child isn’t having a fun time then what good is the party?

Remember that it’s their day and if they aren’t having fun, ask them how you can both change that – it could be as simple as having some early cake or playing a different party game.

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INSIDE

Wiltshire

Dear Readers,

February Half Term is a “do what you like” type holiday - one of my favourite times - with spring on the way and little pressure to visit extended family or prepare for that big annual holiday: ideal for enjoying Wiltshire’s attractions.

And, with the pandemic receding (fingers crossed!), our feature on The Pound Arts Centre (P4) along with our packed Box Office section (P6) are more exciting signs that life is returning to normal, showing that families can book the theatre and indoor events with relative confidence. Elsewhere we talk to legendary author Michael Morpurgo (P12) on how to write a story, and offer a few hints on how to choose your child’s first musical instrument (P6) or plan those returning children’s parties (P2). Here’s to 2022, the year we can all get out and enjoy life again!

Mike Gartside - Publisher

October Half Term 2021 SALES MIKE GARTSIDE mike.gartside@ primarytimes.co.uk 01452 937123

04 COVER STORY 05 SCOOP 06 BOX OFFICE 08 W.O.W. 11 CORKBOARD 12 MORPURGO FEATURE 14 FOR THE KIDS

EDITORIAL & DESIGN EDITOR MIKE GARTSIDE mike.gartside@ primarytimes.co.uk SUB-EDITOR & THEATRE TOM PHILLIPS WOW LISTINGS ELLEN WHITE

PUBLISHED BY STARFISH PUBLISHING LIMITED, The Create Centre, Smeaton Road, Bristol, BS1 6XN 01452 937123

FREE INSIDE: WH 34,000 COPIES FOR FAMILIES OF AT’S ON WPRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN Wiltshire HERE GUIDE

FEBRUARY HALF SAT 19 FEBRUARY-FRI TERM 2022 8 APRIL ISS.134

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Front cover image: Simon Victor in ‘Party’,

by Half Moon Theatre at The Pound Arts Centre.

Photo by Stephen Russell

ytimes.co.u

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The Pou nd!

Our paper comes from sustainably managed forests

+ SPECI A L OF F ERS

WILTS LEISURE & WESSEX WATER

+ M USIC F E AT U RE

CHOOSE YOUR FIRST INSTRUMENT

+ TOP LOCAL STORIES

LONGLEAT’S NEWCOMER & OTHER

NEWS DAY S OUT • EDUC AT ION • COMP ET I T IONS • FAMI LY FUN

MONEY SAVING OFFERS

Find these discounts in this edition of Primary Times

Professional local tuition, in-centre and online • • • • • • •

Build your child’s skills and confidence Maths, English, GCSE and 11+ tuition to Salisbury children Excellent success rate with exams Sensible covid protocols Open for 18 years Worked with over 1,700 children Initial free assessment

Please contact Bas Brown Kip McGrath Salisbury T: 01722 332200 E: salisburyeast@ kipmcgrath.co.uk

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WILTSHIRE COUNCIL LEISURE CENTRES Save £25 on a new membership before 31 March with the code PTJUN25 WESSEX WATER Free kids’ spring gardening pack plus lessons and guided tours Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through national primary schools in Wiltshire. It aims to inform families and children about current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses, attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or by joining in the competitions. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically based 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. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in Wiltshire for their assistance in distributing the magazine and for 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 with the relevant contributor. Primary Times is currently publishing over two million copies per issue under franchise licences throughout Britain.

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022 03

Wiltshire Advertising feature

Clockwise from top left: Tweedy, Giant Under the Sea Mural, ‘Party’ by Half Moon Theatre, Creation Station, Bricking It!, ‘Ron’s Gone Wrong’and Silent Disco

Party at The Pound!

From murals to Lego to glitter to comedy, The Pound Arts Centre is buzzing with family fun this February Half Term

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his half-term Corsham is the place for families to be as The Pound Arts Centre hosts a wide variety of arty and crafty workshops for kids, fun-filled family theatre and even a silent disco. Get ready to move your feet, because the week is going to be one big party!

Kicking things off, on Saturday 19 February, children of all ages are invited to draw every type of wonderful sea creature on a collaborative ‘Giant Under The Sea’ mural.

What sealife will they create at the bottom of the ocean?

Professional illustrator Rosie Fossett is on hand to offer tips and advice along the way.

On Monday 21 January it’s ‘Bricking It!’ In this drop-in family session, little ones can spend the morning sifting through mountains of colourful bricks, building everything and anything their imaginations can conceive - Lego, Lego everywhere!

The following day The Pound hosts a fun-filled family crafts session with Creation Station, where children can cut, stick, draw and sprinkle glitter all morning long. This is a dropin session, so children can

04 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022

spend as much time crafting away as they like but must be accompanied by an adult.

Join Sidney from The Last Baguette, The Pound’s resident theatre company, to create some seriously silly frolicking characters in her Comedy Workshop. Taking place on Wednesday 23 February, this workshop is suitable for anyone with a sense of humour – so all ages are welcome!

On Thursday 24 February, mini movie lovers can see the hit animated film ‘Ron’s Gone Wrong’ (PG); a timely adventure telling the story of Barney, a socially awkward middle-schooler, and Ron, his new walking, talking, digitallyconnected “best friend out of the box”. Bookers for this screening can also attend a free robot making workshop before the film, where they can use cardboard tubes and boxes to create their own robot companion.

Friday 25 February starts off with a calming ‘Paint A Pebble’ workshop, where guests can decorate their own keepsake cobblestone; suitable for all ages but little ones need to bring an adult. Later on, visitors

Comedy Workshop to the arts centre can grab a pair of headphones and dance their socks off at The Pound’s famous Family Silent Disco, starting at 12pm and 2.30pm!

Rounding the day off are two performances, at 1pm and 3:30pm, from slapstick legend and star of both Gifford’s Circus and Cheltenham’s Everyman Theatre’s pantomime, Tweedy the Clown in ‘Tweedy’s Lost Property’! Following the government’s guidance to retrain, Tweedy decides to get a real job working in a lost property office, with hilarious consequences. The lost property in Tweedy’s possession seems to develop a life of its own and, as his own body seems to rebel against him, he is constantly prevented from answering the ringing telephone. In this one man,

family show, Tweedy illustrates an impressive repertoire of comedic talents which have made him one of the most respected and popular clowns in the country.

Finally, on Saturday the 26 February, The Pound ends the half term the only way it knows how, with a party! Half Moon Theatre presents ‘Party’; a heartfelt and provocative family show full of quirky humour, colourful designs and a glorious contemporary soundtrack.

Afonso wants to go to his best friend’s birthday party, but where is his invitation? Has it been lost in the post, or maybe he wasn’t even invited? When it finally arrives, the excitement and nerves become too much to handle. What should he wear? Will they have balloons?

Will anyone play with him? And what about the cake?The only way to find out is to get along and join in the fun!

See What’s On Where (Page 8) for event times and other information.

Tickets for all half-term events at The Pound are available to book by visiting poundarts. org.uk or by calling the box office on 01249 701628. primarytimes.co.uk/wiltshire

NEWS FOR WILTSHIRE’S PRIMARY SCHOOL COMMUNITY

Julia’s challenge

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here are lots of ways you can get active over the next few months and help raise much-needed funds for Wiltshire’s children’s hospice Julia’s House into the bargain. The Devizes-based charity offers care and support to children with life-shortening and life-threatening conditions and their families, but has not been able to hold its usual programme of fundraising events over the last two years because of Covid restrictions. This year, however, Julia’s House relaunches that programme with an array of challenges for thrill-seekers of all kinds. Up first is the chance to take part in a tandem skydive from 13,000 feet with the Army Parachute Association at Netheravon in The Big Jump on 23

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April, but if that sounds like too much of an adrenaline rush, the charity also has places available for runners wanting to take part in the Bath Half Marathon on 29 May. The Great Wiltshire Walk on 17 July offers something a little more leisurely while Julia’s House can also organise tailormade guided hikes for groups and businesses at any time. Look out too for a special Easter event at Wilton House.

W: www.juliashouse.org/events

Get fully booked

he Worst Class in the World in Danger!’, ‘The Wizard and Me: More Misadventures of Bubbles the Guinea Pig’ and Matt Lucas’ book of ‘Very Very Very Very Very Very Silly Book of True or False’ are among the titles you can pick up for the princely sum of absolutely nothing with this year’s World Book Day book tokens. As part of the celebration of all things book-related, the initiative is distributing more than 15 million book tokens to children and young people across the UK and if you don’t like the look of the books selected for the official WBD list, you can always use your token to get a £1 discount

primarytimes.co.uk/wiltshire

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All about Mum

NEWS BITES

f you’re looking for something a bit different for Mother’s Day this year, then both Swindon & Cricklade Railway and Cholderton Rare Breed Farm are offering ways to celebrate that won’t cost a penny - at least not for your mum. The railway is running Sunday steam specials on 27 March from 11am that mums can travel on for free (with their paying sons or daughters) and enjoy a nostalgic trip back in time while the farm is also giving mums free admission on the big day so you can meet “Mummy Animals” around the farm and

Growing interest

treat her to a glass of wine in the café.

Wiltshire mum Lindsey Thurlow is on course to complete a 1,986-mile marathon for the Make-aWish charity by April.

W: justgiving.com/ fundraising/lindsey1986

W: swindon-cricklade-railway.org, choldertonrarebreedsfarm.com

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British Science Week runs from 11-20 March with the theme ‘Growth’. Free downloadable activity packs are available for all ages, which include activities that look at growth from all angles including how buildings work, eco-friendly behaviour, and how we might grow plants on Mars.

W: www.britishscienceweek.org

Marathon woman

Joey joy!

f you go down to Longleat today, you’re sure... not of a teddy bear’s picnic, but an encounter with the wildlife park’s newest arrival, a tiny baby koala bear, known as a joey. The first ever southern koala born in Europe, he’s now venturing outside. Longleat, nr. Warminster, opens every day from Sat 19 to Sun 27 Feb before opening fully in April.

W: www.longleat.co.uk

off any other full-price book instead. Schools and families can also download a whole range of resources to encourage reading from the WBD website.

The day itself is on 3 March, but WBD tokens can be used in participating bookshops from now until 27 March.

"I wouldn't wish my anxiety on my worst enemy."

Help test a course designed to prevent children developing anxiety.

If you are a parent who experiences anxiety and has a child aged 2-11 find out how you can make a difference.

parentingwithanxiety.org.uk

W: www.worldbookday.com FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022 05

The Athenaeum

18-20 High St, Warminster BA12 9AE, 01985 213891, theath.org.uk

Wed 16 Feb Dream Horse

This 2020 film is based on the true story of Welsh bar server and supermarket cleaner Jan Vokes (Toni Collett) who teamed up with neighbours to successfully take on the horse racing elite with her horse Dream Alliance.

7.30pm. £5.50. Cert PG.

Primary Times discovers how to hit the right note when choosing a musical instrument for a child to learn

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earning a musical instrument can be an enriching hobby that lasts a lifetime, but it’s crucial that you and your child choose the right one.

AGE When thinking about the right instrument, age is a big consideration. While it’s easier to learn music at a younger age, some musical instruments are more suitable when your child has developed strength, stamina and height. Brass instruments such as the tuba and trombone require strong lungs, strong mouth muscles, and can be heavy to hold.

POPULARITY Choosing a popular instrument such as guitar or piano can be a good idea because there tend to be more learning resources available. Finding a teacher nearby might be easier and avoid long commutes. Some children may also be more likely to learn an instrument that their friends play too. It could also help your child make new friends and connect with others who play.

06 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022

FINANCIAL Once your child has chosen the instrument they wish to learn, it’s a good idea to give yourself a budget. Even if your child is enthusiastic and you’ve found an instrument that fits them perfectly, there’s no guarantee they’ll keep playing long term. Buying an inexpensive beginners instrument will save you money if your child loses interest. It’s also a good idea to ask your child’s school or local music shop if they offer instruments to rent or practise with during term times. Consider the longterm expenses too. Maintenance costs can soon add up. Stringed instruments will need strings replacing when they break and rosin is needed for a cello and violin bow. If your child takes lessons, these fees will vary according to the instrument and your location. Online lessons on platforms like YouTube can be a good alternative, depending on how your child learns best.

Messy

Old Road, Derry Hill, Calne SN11 0LZ, 01453 800200, giffordscircus.com

Thu 28 Apr-Tue 3 May

Mon 21 Mar

Carpa!

Rock the Tots

Giffords Circus return with their new spectacular circus show inspired by Mexico and 1920s and 1930s touring theatre. The Giffords troupe will be joined by Mexican performers for a show “full of skill, humour, turmoil and excitement”. Check website for performance times. Tickets from £20/£10 (child).

Strap in for a fun musical ride into space with Steph and Craig and a cast of puppets and comic characters and lots of bubbles. Performance at 11am.

Tickets £7/free (under-2).

Tue 12 Apr Musical Storytime

Neeld Community & Arts Centre

High St, Chippenham SN15 3ER, 01249 446699, neeld.co.uk

Actor and musician Iona Johnson serves up music, laughter and “a pinch of silliness”. Performance at 11am.

Tickets £8.50.

Wed 16-Sat 19 Mar

Wed 13 Apr

The Addams Family: The Musical

The Three Billy Pigs

Can Gomez stop Morticia finding out that Wednesday Addams has gone and fallen in love with a respectable young man? And what happens when the two families meet? CLOGs present the musical based on the famously kooky family. Performances at 7.30pm, Sat mat 2.30pm. Tickets £14-£18/£12.60£16.20 (concs).

The Pound Arts Centre

The Pound, Pound Pill, Corsham SN13 9HX, 01249 701628, poundarts.org.uk

Fri 25 Feb Tweedy ‘s Lost Property

Perhaps the West Country’s favourite clown takes a regular job in a lost property office. What’s the betting that everything goes smoothly and there are no mix-ups or pratfalls at all?

Performance at 1pm. Tickets £10/£8 (child)/£30 (family).

Mashing up classic fairy tales The Three Little Pigs and Three Billy Goats Gruff, Noisy Oyster bring beautifully crafted puppets, live music and a bit of eco-awareness to this light-hearted show for ages 3+. Performance at 2pm.

Tickets £9/£7 (child)/£28 (family).

Thu 21 Apr Henry V

Kit Harington (of ‘Game of Thrones’) leads the charge as he takes the English army once more unto the breach in this modern production of Shakespeare’s tale of Henry V’s exploits in France. Screening of a filmed live performance from the Donmar Warehouse in London (12A). Screening starts at 7pm. Tickets £15/£14 (concs).

Salisbury Arts Centre

Bedwin St, Salisbury SP1 3UT, 01722 321744, wiltshirecreative.co.uk

Sat 26 Feb

Sat 26 Feb

Party

Saturday Storytime

Afonso appears to have been left off his best friend’s birthday party list -

The Amazing Bubble Man

Lulu Sparre brings stories to life for children aged 3-6. Performances at

Swindon Arts Centre, Sun 27 Feb primarytimes.co.uk/wiltshire

Image: mirifoto

INTEREST The most important consideration when choosing an instrument is whether your child is interested in it. The more excited a child is about the instrument, the more commitment they’ll give. Try taking your child to several

music shops and introducing them to a range of instruments before buying anything. If they seem indifferent to the instruments in the shop, try finding out if your child prefers melody, harmony or beat. If your child enjoys the beat, for example, they might enjoy playing the drums.

Sat 12 Mar Daisy’s got a brain as messy as her bedroom so it’s no surprise her weekend with best friend Beth and Mr Twiggy doesn’t go according to plan.

Zoo Co present a magical, visual tale in a relaxed performance with no loud noises. Followed by a free workshop.

Performance at 1.30pm. Tickets £9/£7 (child)/£28 (family).

Bowood House

Pitch perfect

but then his invitation arrives and he can hardly contain his excitement. Half Moon present this humorous tale about an unforgettable party. Performances at 11am & 2pm. Tickets £8.50.

BOXOFFICE

THE VERY BEST THEATRE, ARTS AND FILM NEAR YOU 10.30am & 11.45am. Tickets £3 per child (accompanying adult free).

Fri 11 Mar The Day of the Triffids Mash Up

Music, text and visual imagery collide as Platform 4 immerse the audience in John Wyndham’s classic ‘The Day of the Triffids’. Suitable for ages 10+.

Performance at 8pm. Tickets £15.

Wed 20 Apr Storm Boy

When Michael Kingley, a successful retired businessman, starts to see images from his past that he can’t explain, he’s forced to remember his childhood and how, as a boy, he rescued and raised an extraordinary orphaned pelican, Mr Percival. Based on the beloved book and starring Finn Little and Geoffrey Rush, ‘Storm Boy’ is an emotional tale of a young boy growing up on the beautiful but uninhabited coastline of Southern Australia. 10.30am.

Sat 23 Apr Saturday Storytime

Lulu Sparre brings stories to life for children aged 3-6. Performances at 10.30am & 11.45am. Tickets £3 per child (accompanying adult free).

Salisbury Playhouse

Malthouse Lane, Salisbury SP2 7RA, 01722 320333, wiltshirecreative.co.uk

Mon 25-Sat 30 Apr Private Peaceful

This much awarded novel, acknowledged by author Michael Morpurgo (of ‘War Horse’ and ‘The Butterfly Lion’ fame) as his favourite work, is retold by Simon Reade, directed by Elle While, and explores the lengths a young soldier will go to to fight for what is right. Shows at 2.15pm & 7.30pm. £12-£24.

Swindon Arts Centre

Devizes Rd, Swindon SN1 4BJ, 01793 524481, swindontheatres.co.uk

Sun 27 Feb The Amazing Bubble Man

Louis Pearl promises to thrill audiences with the art, magic, science and fun of bubbles. Performance at 2pm. Tickets £12.50-£15.

Thu 3-Fri 4 Mar Twirlywoos

From the producers of ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show’ and ‘Sarah and Duck Live on Stage’ comes another enchanting show for young audiences.

The Twirlywoos are setting sail around the UK to welcome young fans to a

primarytimes.co.uk/wiltshire

theatrical adventure. Expect mischief, music and plenty of surprises as they share the delight of discovery. With beautifully inventive puppetry the show promises a cast full of all your favourite characters from the hit TV show. Various times between 11am and 4pm. Tickets £15.

Wiltshire Music Centre

Ashley Rd, Bradford on Avon BA15 1DZ, 01225 860100, www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk

Wed 16 Feb Romeo & Juliet

Screening of an as-live recording of the modern ballet version of Shakespeare’s great tale about star-crossed lovers and feuding families. Screening at 7.15pm. Tickets £16/£8 (under-18s).

SUN 6 MAR Wiltshire Youth Jazz Orchestra

Afternoon performance from the talented young jazz musicians of Wiltshire led by big band leader Mike Daniels. Expect toe-tapping tunes and some special guests. 3pm, £16 (adult)/£8 (child).

Mon 14-Tue 15 Mar

Tue 12 Apr

The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde

Sooty

Dr Jekyll is a good and successful man and he’s about make a discovery that will change medical science forever - only things don’t quite work out as he expects and he suddenly finds he has a new ‘friend’ in the form of Mr Hyde. Expect thrills and spills a-plenty in this adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic yarn. Suitable for ages 11+. Performances at 7.30pm. Tickets £21/£19 (concs).

Sun 3 Apr The Wizard of Oz

The Wyvern hosts an Easter pantomime based on the magical tale of Dorothy’s journey to the Land of Oz and along the Yellow Brick Road with the Tinman, Scarecrow and Cowardly Lion. Bobby Davro heads up the cast in this twice-postponed holiday show.

Performances at 2pm & 6pm, tickets £21/£19 (concs)/£85 (family of four).

Expect a flying car, a singing unicorn and a levitating sausage in Sooty’s brand new comedy magic show with his chums Soo, Sweep and Richard Cadell. Circus star Michael Jordan also joins in the fun. Performances at 11am & 2.30pm. Tickets £18/£15.50 (child).

Sat 16 Apr Justin Live: The Big Tour

Cbeebies star Justin Fletcher takes to the stage in this all-singing, all-dancing show rescheduled from April last year. Performances at 11am & 2.30pm.

Tickets £21-£25/£19-£23 (child).

Wed 11-Thu 12 May Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever

Peppa Pig sets out on a road trip with George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig and has a string of fun adventures.

Performances at 10am, 1pm & 4pm. £18-£20/£16-£18 (child)/£72 (family).

THE WEST END HIT SHOW - PERFECT HALF TERM FUN!

Wyvern Theatre

Theatre Sq, Swindon SN1 1QN, 0343 310 0040, swindontheatres.co.uk

Sun 20 Feb Tweedy ‘s Lost Property

Perhaps the West Country’s favourite clown takes a regular job in a lost property office. What’s the betting that everything goes smoothly and there are no mix-ups or pratfalls at all?

Performance at 2pm. Tickets £13-£19.

Wed 23-Sat 26 Feb Billionaire Boy

Stage production of David Walliams’s hugely successful children’s novel about Joe Spud, the world’s richest boy, who has everything he wants - a sports car, two crocodiles, £100,000 a week pocket money. The one thing he doesn’t have, however, is a friend, so he switches schools and goes in search of what money can’t buy. Suitable for ages 5+. Performance times vary - check website for details. Tickets £19-£23.

Wed 2-Thu 3 Mar Dragons And Mythical Beasts

Enter a magical world of myths and legends in this fantastical new interactive family puppet show. Unveil a myriad dark secrets and meet some of the most magnificent monsters and terrifying beasts ever to walk the earth. Take your place among legendary heroes, just don’t wake the Dragon… Shows at 1.30pm & 4.30pm.

Tickets £14.50.

WED 23 - SAT 26 FEB 2022

Ticket Office: 0343 310 0040 swindontheatres.co.uk

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UNTIL SAT 26 MAR QUENTIN BLAKE’S THE COMEBACK KIDS: LIFE BEGINS AT RETIREMENT Trowbridge Museum, The Shires, Trowbridge BA14 8AT, www. trowbridgemuseum.co.uk Expect a charming exhibition re-imagining later life with the help of illustrator and author Quentin Blake. 10am-4pm, free.

UNTIL FRI 8 APR FRIDAY UNDER-5S: SPRING 2022 Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin St, Salisbury SP1 3UT, www. wiltshirecreative.co.uk Fun workshop exploring different art forms each week, including dance, music and art. Designed for under-5s and their grown-ups. Some sessions free, others cost £5 child/£3 adult. Booking is essential.

UNTIL SAT 9 APR IMAGINE: ILLUSTRATING STORIES The Vanner Gallery, 45 High St, Salisbury SP1 2PB, www. vannergallery.com A celebration of contemporary book illustration featuring original work from over 20 of the world’s award-winning

Wiltshire

picture book illustrators, including Raymond Briggs, Eric Carle, Lauren Child and Shirley Hughes. 10am-5pm, free.

FRI 11 FEB UNDER-5S FRIDAY The Salisbury Museum, Kings House, 65 The Close, Salisbury SP1 2EN, www.salisburymuseum.org.uk Join artist Liza Morgan for a Valentine’s Day special to make the perfect romantic gifts with your little ones. Under-5s Friday runs every second Friday at Salisbury Museum. 10-11.30am, normal museum entry applies.

SAT 12 FEB SENIOR VIRTUAL OPEN MORNING Zoom, Online, www.stonarschool.com/ admissions/open-days A virtual open morning led by headmaster Matthew Way along with a panel of teaching staff. A presentation about Stonar will be followed by direct questions to the panel. Runs from 10am to approximately 11am. No entry cost, registration required.

FRI 18 FEB DEVIZES GHOST WALK Meet at Market Cross, Market Place, Devizes, www.wiltshiremuseum.org.uk Join local historian John Girvan on his evening ghost walk – and dowse the gallows site if you dare! Suitable for children aged 11 plus, 7.30-9pm, £6.50 (adult)/£4(child).

Devizes Ghost Walk with John Girvan, Fri 18 Feb & Fri 18 Mar

Under-8s sessions, every Friday, Ramp Nation Indoor Skatepark, Devizes

PLAYTIME THEATRE SESSIONS Wiltshire Music Centre, Ashley Rd, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1DZ, www. wiltshiremusic.org.uk Join Sidney and Tristan from The Last Baguette for a fun, relaxed participatory theatre session with play-acting, games and music. Suitable for children aged 2 to 6. 10.30-11.30am, £4 for a family of up to 4 people.

MINI CHEFS: PERFECT PASTA Wiltshire Scrapstore, Unit 5, Griffin Farm, Bowden Hl, Lacock, Chippenham SN15 2PP, www. wiltshirescrapstore.co.uk A morning of arts and crafts using the extensive range of materials from the scrapstore. Numbers are limited to allow for social distancing. 10-11.30am, £9.50 per child (includes two hot drinks for adults from the coffee shop).

FRI 18 FEB-FRI 22 APR FRIDAY UNDER-8S SESSIONS RampNation Indoor Skatepark, Unit 2B, Garden Trading Estate, Devizes SN10 2HW, www.rampnation.co.uk Dedicated sessions for under-8s only.

Suitable for beginner-intermediate level skaters and scooters, skateboards, inline and quad skates. 10am-12noon, from £7 per child.

SAT 19 FEB GIANT UNDER THE SEA MURAL PAINTING The Pound Arts Centre, Pound Pill, Corsham SN13 9HX, www.poundarts. org.uk Children of all ages are invited to draw fish, sharks, whales and octopi on a collaborative giant under the sea mural.

What creatures will you create at the bottom of the ocean? Professional Illustrator Rosie Fossett will be on hand

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for tips and advice along the way. 1011.30am, book via website.

GEMMA’S PIRATE PARTY The Civic Trowbridge, St Stephen’s Pl, Trowbridge BA14 8AH, www. thecivictrowbridge.co.uk Gemma Hunt returns to The Civic with her popular swashbucklin’ show. A sell-out event in the past - expect plenty of pirate fun, games and songs. 11am or 1pm, £7.50 per child.

SAT 19-SUN 27 FEB MAKING FACES AT STONEHENGE Stonehenge, Nr Amesbury SP4 7DE, www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/ places/stonehenge Get arty with archaeology with this fun family activity. Inspired by the work of expert archaeologists, use clues, clay and creativity to reconstruct a face from the past. Then take part in the Explorer Quest running daily throughout half term. 10am-4pm, included in standard admission prices.

FARM FUN FOR FEBRUARY HALF TERM Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm, Amesbury Rd, Cholderton, Salisbury SP4 0EW, www. choldertonrarebreedsfarm.com Plenty of farm activities to enjoy this half term, including a farm quiz, wildlife workshop, plus new baby animals to meet and pet. Plus a free bag of animal food for every paying child. 10am-4pm, standard admission prices apply.

SPRING HALF TERM Roves Farm, Sevenhampton, Swindon SN6 7QG, www.rovesfarm.co.uk Have fun down on the farm this half term with lots to do, including indoor and outdoor play areas, daily activities and, of course, plenty of animals. 9am-5pm, standard admission prices apply. primarytimes.co.uk/wiltshire

Wiltshire

HALF-TERM EXPLORER QUEST AT STONEHENGE Stonehenge, Nr Amesbury SP4 7DE, www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/ places/stonehenge With spring just around the corner, get out and about during February half term on this brand new explorer quest. Track down the clues and solve the puzzles as you follow the family trail around Stonehenge. 9.30am-5pm, see website for tickets and prices.

MON 21 FEB BRICKING IT! The Pound Arts Centre, Pound Pill, Corsham SN13 9HX, www.poundarts. org.uk In this drop-in family session, little ones can spend the morning sifting through mountains of colourful bricks, building everything and anything their imaginations can conceive. 10am-12noon.

COME AND SING WORKSHOP White Room Studio, Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin St, Salisbury SP1 3UT, www.wiltshirecreative.co.uk Join professional choir leaders Lynsey Docherty and Tim Gilvin to explore music from different genres and find out more about Wiltshire Youth Choir. Suitable for ages 12 to 18, free but please book in advance.

TUE 22 FEB CREATION STATION The Pound Arts Centre, Pound Pill, Corsham SN13 9HX, www.poundarts. org.uk Fun-filled family crafts session with Creation Station where children can cut, stick, draw and sprinkle glitter all morning long. Drop in 10am-12noon,

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children must be accompanied by an adult.

POTTERY HALF-TERM WORKSHOP: MAKE YOUR OWN POTTERY BREAKFAST SET Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin St, Salisbury SP1 3UT, www. wiltshirecreative.co.uk/whats-on/ half-term/pottery-breakfast-set/ Make a pottery breakfast set inspired by nature. Children aged 7 and over learn hand-building and modelling techniques to create their own individual egg cup, mug and side plate designed in the shape of playful birds or any other animals and decorated with coloured slips. 10.30am.

HALF-TERM DISCOVERY DAY The Salisbury Museum, Kings House, 65 The Close, Salisbury SP1 2EN, www.salisburymuseum.org.uk Hop on board for a creative adventure - create a map of an invented land with calligraphy bringing it to life. Led by illustrator Emily Harper. Drop-in workshop for all the family. 10am-4pm, normal museum entry applies.

HAVE A GO ON THE POTTER’S WHEEL Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin St, Salisbury SP1 3UT, www. wiltshirecreative.co.uk Have you dreamt of having a go at pottery yourself? This is a perfect opportunity for children aged 10+ to find out what it feels like. At the end of your session you can choose three of your best pots to be glazed and fired for you.

Prepare to get dirty. Wearing old clothes and bringing an apron and an old towel recommended. 1.30pm.

THU 24 FEB

FRI 25 FEB

RON’S GONE WRONG (PG) The Pound Arts Centre, Pound Pill, Corsham SN13 9HX, www.poundarts. org.uk Screening of the hit animated film which tells the story of Barney, a socially awkward middle-schooler, and Ron, his new walking, talking, digitally-connected ‘Best Friend out of the Box’. Unfortunately Barney’s dad can’t affort the latest trendy devices for him, and Ron turns out to be an irredeemably faulty “B-Bot”. But maybe the unpredictable consequences aren’t so bad after all. Plus robot-making workshop beforehand.

CRAFT WITH WILTSHIRE SCRAPSTORE Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin St, Salisbury SP1 3UT, www. wiltshirecreative.co.uk Craft for 4 to 7 year olds with Wiltshire Scrapstore. Children can develop their creativity in what promises to be an inspiring and imaginative arts and craft session using scrap materials. Parents can enjoy refreshments in the café. £2 per child (adults go free). Sessions at 10.15am, 11.30am & 12.45pm.

PAINT A PEBBLE WORKSHOP The Pound Arts Centre, Pound Pill, Corsham SN13 9HX, www.poundarts. org.uk Calming paint a pebble workshop where guests can decorate their own keepsake cobblestone. Suitable for all ages but little ones need to bring an adult. 1011am, see website to book.

SILENT DISCO The Pound Arts Centre, Pound Pill, Corsham SN13 9HX, www.poundarts. org.uk Grab a pair of headphones and dance your socks off at The Pound’s famous Family Silent Disco. 12noon and 2.30pm, see website to book.

SATURDAY STORYTIME FEBRUARY 2022 Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin St, Salisbury SP1 3UT, www. wiltshirecreative.co.uk The inimitable Lulu Sparre, known for her creative treatment of nursery rhymes, brings stories alive for children aged 3 to 6. Café serves hot drinks and homemade food. £2 per child (adults free). Sessions at 10.30am & 11am.

10 July to 6 August 2022

WED 23 FEB COMEDY WORKSHOP The Pound Arts Centre, Pound Pill, Corsham SN13 9HX, www.poundarts. org.uk Join Sidney from The Last Baguette, The Pound’s resident theatre company, in creating some seriously silly frolicking physical comedy. This workshop is suitable for anyone with a sense of humour – so all ages are welcome. 10am12noon, see website to book.

GET CREATIVE - MAKE MUSIC! Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin St, Salisbury SP1 3UT, www. wiltshirecreative.co.uk Join music leaders Alice Poppleton and David Garcia for an entertaining introduction to making music. Suitable for ages 7 to 11. 10.15am or 1.30pm, £5 per child.

Request a brochure today and discover over 500 courses waiting for you.

01672 892388 summerschool.co.uk

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022 09

Wiltshire

SAT 26 FEB MINI CHEFS: SUPER SOUPS Vaughan’s Cookery School, Unit 8, White Horse Business Centre, Hopton Industrial Estate, Devizes SN10 2HJ, www.vaughanskitchen.co.uk Expect to learn a range of useful cooking skills and techniques - and make some delicious soups to take home. Suitable for ages 6 to 10. 10.30am-12.30pm, £30 per child.

WED 9 MAR EQUESTRIAN OPEN MORNING Stonar School, Stonar School, Cottles Park, Atworth SN12 8NT, www. stonarschool.com/admissions/opendays An in-person open morning that provides keen riders with an opportunity to experience first hand the expertise available at the school. Riders are able to bring their own horse for the lesson or the school can allocate one of theirs.

Runs from 9.30am to approx. 2.30pm.

No entry cost, registration required.

FRI 18 MAR PLAYTIME THEATRE SESSIONS Wiltshire Music Centre, Ashley Rd, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1DZ, www. wiltshiremusic.org.uk Join Sidney and Tristan from The Last Baguette for a fun, relaxed participatory theatre session with play-acting, games and music. Suitable for children aged 2 to 6. 10.30-11.30am, £4 for a family of up to 4 people.

DEVIZES GHOST WALK Meet at Market Cross, Market Place, Devizes, www.wiltshiremuseum.org.uk Join local historian John Girvan on his

Have a go on the Potter’s Wheel, Salisbury Arts Centre, Tue 22 Feb

evening Ghost Walk – and dowse the gallows site if you dare! Suitable for children aged 11 plus, 7.30-9pm, £6.50 (adult)/£4 (child).

THU 24 MAR SCHOOLS & CULTURE NETWORKING EVENT Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin St, Salisbury SP1 3UT, www. wiltshirecreative.co.uk Arts organisation Wiltshire Creative and the Wiltshire and Swindon Cultural Education Partnership invite school and college staff to meet with local culture providers to find out what is available to them in the area. W&SCEP aims to improve educational, cultural and social outcomes for children through interaction between organisations including libraries, the arts and schools.

Drop in between 5pm and 7pm.

SAT 26 MAR MINI CHEFS: TANTALISING TARTS Vaughan’s Cookery School, Unit 8, White Horse Business Centre, Hopton Industrial Estate, Devizes SN10 2HJ, www.vaughanskitchen.co.uk Children aged 6 to 10 can learn some valuable cooking skills and make some delicious red onion and goat’s cheese tartlets to take home - plus a lemon tart for dessert. 10.30am-12.30pm, £30 per child.

SAT 26-SUN 27 MAR MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL Swindon and Cricklade Railway, Blunsdon Station, Tadpole Lane, Blundson, Swindon SN25 2DA, www. swindon-cricklade-railway.org The railway is planning something special to celebrate all mums this Mother’s Day weekend - more details coming soon, please see website.

SUN 27 MAR MUMS GO FREE FOR MOTHER’S DAY Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm, Amesbury Rd, Cholderton, Salisbury SP4 0EW, www. choldertonrarebreedsfarm.com It’s free entry for all mums down on the farm this Mother’s Day. Enjoy all the usual farm attractions and why not treat mum to Sunday lunch in the farm café?

10am-4pm, standard admission prices apply/mums go free.

SAT 2 APR SKY HUNTERS AT SUNSET Sarson Lane, Weyhill, Andover,

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Hampshire SP11 8DY, www.hawkconservancy.org/events/sky-huntersHampshire SP11 8DY, Hampshire SP11

Hampshire SP11 8DY, www. hawkconservancy.org/events/sky-huntersat-sunset/ The chance to see a see a variety of birds fly, including falcons, vultures, owls and kites, at this special time of day. Start the evening with a barbecue and a chocolate brownie, followed by spectacular flying demonstrations from the centre’s birds.

6-8.30pm, £35 (adult)/£21(child).

SAT 9-SUN 24 APR EASTER HOLIDAY EGGCITEMENT Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm, Amesbury Rd, Cholderton, Salisbury SP4 0EW, www. choldertonrarebreedsfarm.com Plenty of Easter fun down on the farm, including Easter egg hunts, appearances from the Easter Bunny and plenty of new baby animals. 10am-4pm, standard admission prices apply.

BOWOOD’S BIG EASTER ADVENTURE Bowood House and Gardens, Old Rd, Derry Hill, Calne SN11 0LZ, www. bowood.org Expect lots of fun over the Easter holidays at Bowood House and Gardens.

More information TBA, check website for details.

wiltshirecreative.co.uk A fun wildlife exploration, meeting in the arts centre’s pottery and observing nature in the grounds: collect naturally occurring tools and decorations for your project. 10.30am.

WILDLIFE HOMES POTTERY WORKSHOPS Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin St, Salisbury SP1 3UT, www. wiltshirecreative.co.uk Insects are an important part of our ecosystems, now more than ever they need safe spaces to live so that they can continue pollinating our flowers, fruits, and vegetables. Join the centre this spring for an insect home-making clay workshop. 11.30am.

WED 20 APR STORM BOY Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin St, Salisbury SP1 3UT, www. wiltshirecreative.co.uk A screening of the touching family film about a boy in Australia and the relationship he builds with a pelican, Mr Percival. 10.30am, £8 per child (children must be accompanied by an adult but adults do not require a ticket).

MON 11 APR UNDER-FIVES FRIDAY The Salisbury Museum, The Salisbury Museum, Kings House, 65 The Close, Salisbury, Wilts, SP1 2EN, salisburymuseum.org.uk Explore and create together with lively activities on the theme of Royal Wessex.

Suitable for 2 to 5 year olds. Baby play area. 10-11.30am WED 13 APR CRAFT WITH WILTSHIRE SCRAPSTORE Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin St, Salisbury SP1 3UT, www. wiltshirecreative.co.uk Craft for 4 to 7 year olds with Wiltshire Scrapstore. Children can develop their creativity in this inspiring and imaginative arts and craft session.

Parents can enjoy refreshments in the café. £2 per child (adults go free). Sessions at 10.15am, 11.30am & 12.45pm.

THU 14 APR WANDERING WILDLIFE POTTERY WORKSHOPS Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin St, Salisbury SP1 3UT, www. wiltshirecreative.co.uk A fun wildlife exploration, meeting in the arts centre’s pottery and observing nature in the grounds: collect naturally occurring

FRI 29 APR PREP OPEN MORNING Stonar School, Stonar School, Cottles Park, Atworth SN12 8NT, www. stonarschool.com/admissions/opendays An in-person open morning led by the head of prep, Rob Cunningham, who will be supported by the prep teaching team and admissions staff, who will be available to answer your questions. Runs from 10am to approximately 11.30am.

No entry cost, registration required.

SAT 21 MAY SENIOR OPEN MORNING Stonar School, Stonar School, Cottles Park, Atworth SN12 8NT, www. stonarschool.com/admissions/opendays An in-person open morning hosted by headmaster Matthew Way. Families will be able to go on individual tours of the school, including the boarding facilities and amazing equestrian centre. The academic teaching and admissions teams will be available to answer questions. Runs from 10am to approximately 1pm. No entry cost, registration required. primarytimes.co.uk/wiltshire

Wiltshire Advertising features

CORKBOARD Building skills and confidence

Kip McGrath Tutors in Salisbury offers professional Maths, English, 11+ and GCSE tuition to any local child aged 6 to 16. The centre has been open for 18 years now and has had over 1,700 children through its doors. It has a sensible Covid protocol in place and is fully open for tuition, both in-centre and live online.

Kip McGrath’s success rate at 11+ and GCSE is excellent at around 80%, but its core work is to fill skills and confidence gaps for children who need a boost, especially after recent school closures and lockdowns. It does this by using an initial free assessment to assess each child’s needs, giving parents a chance to see what they can offer before signing up.

Ffi: contact Bas Brown, Kip McGrath Salisbury T: 01722 332200 E: salisburyeast@ kipmcgrath.co.uk

From toddlers to teens and parents to grandparents, the whole family is guaranteed a holiday to remember at Marlborough College Summer School from 10 July to 6 August 2022.

Junior Troopers (ages 3-6) and Children’s Activities (ages 6-9) adopt the multi-activity approach with a packed programme of arts and crafts, music, sports and outdoor games. Like the adults, Young Adventurers (ages 9-12) and Teenagers can choose from a huge range of morning and afternoon courses, which continue all week.

Besides staying at the College with their families, young people are welcome to attend Summer School as day students and working parents may use Childcare Vouchers or tax-free scheme Childcare Choices to help pay for courses. To discover the full range of courses visit the website.

Marlborough College Summer School W: summerschool.co.uk

Road aware

A free education service from Wessex Water Highway safety charity Brake hosts Road Safety Schools the West can beneWeek across from Mon 15-Sun fit from free expert lessons on water 21 November, promising a and waste, as well as guided tours of treatment sites, with Wessex Water’s free education service.

With lesson content tailored for both Key Stages One and Two, Wessex Water’s education advisers can cover a range of topics for your child’s class including the water cycle, river studies, human impact on the environment, water and sewage treatment and climate change.

The company is keen for parents to spread the message to teachers so schools don’t miss out. Parents can also download free resources for home learning from the website.

Wessex Water W: wessexwater.co.uk/education

primarytimes.co.uk/wiltshire

Parents’ and teachers’ news, resources and contacts

A summer to remember

Feeling anxious?

You’re not alone!

The Parenting with Anxiety Project at the University of Sussex is focused on finding ways to help parents and children navigate the world with confidence.

If you feel anxious you may find yourself feeling worried about your children. The project’s research shows that, with the right support, parents can help their children become more confident.

They now want to find out if families will benefit from an eight-module online course. If you would describe yourself as high in anxiety, with a child aged 2 to 11, they would love you to join them.

Half of the parents do the course and the others simply answer questions, but everyone plays an important role in helping children with anxiety.

Parenting with Anxiety W: www.parentingwithanxiety.org. uk

That’s rich!

David Walliams’ ‘Billionaire Boy’ is coming to Swindon Joe Spud is the richest boy in the country.

He’s got his own sport car, two pet crocodiles, £100,000 a week pocket money - and he’s only 12 years old. What he doesn’t have is a friend so he swaps his posh school for the local comp, but his plans to find what money can’t buy don’t work out as he expected …

Find out what happens to Joe in Birmingham Stage Company’s all-new stage version of David Walliams’ bestselling children’s novel ‘Billionaire Boy’ when it comes to the Wyvern Theatre in Swindon as part of a major national tour (23-26 Feb). Neal Foster’s adaptation certainly impressed the author himself. “If this production was on Britain’s Got Talent, I’d be giving it the Golden Buzzer!” Walliams said. ‘Billionaire Boy’ is suitable for ages 5+ and tickets are available now.

Billionaire Boy: swindontheatres.co.uk/Online/ tickets-billionaire-boy-swindon-2020 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022 11

HOW TO TELL A STORY WITH. . .

MICHAEL MORPURGO

Primary Times chats with Michael Morpurgo, author of popular children’s books such as War Horse,, about writing from experiences, the importance of discovery, and his newest book, When Fishes Flew.

Flew Michael Morpurgo’s newest novel When Fishes Flew is a tale of adventure and escapism. It is set in both Australia and the legendary island of Ithaca the home of Homer and Odysseus.

The book weaves together two lives and two incredible journeys - an old Greek lady named Elena and her great niece Nandi. Michael revealed to us his inspiration for this story. “This book was a combination of history and good luck,” he told us. “Two years ago, before Covid happened, I went on holiday to Ithaca with my wife. We ended up holidaying in a tiny house on the beach, but we didn’t realise was the significance of the beach. We learnt that in legend, this was the beach that Odysseus walked when he came back from the Trojan War. We saw a Greek family come down at about 5pm everyday and I would read a book and watch them. Then one day, the older lady of the family beckoned us to come over. We went over and she cupped her hands in the water and picked up a flying fish. She said, ‘they talk, you know.’ And stroked the top of the fish’s head and the fish made a blabbing, gibberish sort of talking noise. We walked around that evening thinking of nothing else but that flying fish. In my head, because I was so embedded in

12 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022

the Odyssey and Greek Gods, I thought that this fish must have been Proteus - the son of the sea-god Poseidon – a God who could change into whatever he wanted to be.

“We also came across a small house with an old man si‫מּ‬ing outside.

We were very close to him on the pavement so we said hello. He said hello back in a strong Australian accent so I asked him if he was Australian.

He replied saying, ‘No I’m Greek, but I’m a Greek Australian!’ He told me how he moved from Ithaca when he was 5 years old because of a terrible earthquake in 1954. He lived in Australia for many years but always promised himself that he would go back to Ithaca and rebuild his old house and live there.

“So it was two strange stories that happened in the same day that inspired me. I think that writers need a lot of luck to write. You’ll have extremely flat times where you can’t write anything, the other times you’ll come across the extraordinary.”

Writing from personal experiences and other people’s perspectives is something Michael has also used a lot in his writing. “I love other people’s stories,” he said. “A story for which I’m be‫מּ‬er known is a book called War Horse. That came about from talking to an old man in a pub about 45 years ago now. He had been in the World War and I found myself by the fire listening to his story, about his time in the war and about how close these soldiers were to their horses. I was in the right place at the right time so I just tell the story.” told “I keep a series of jo‫מּ‬ing books with me. I think that if you are thinking about writing too much, the words become more important than the story.

So I try to jot down just two sentences a day about anything that has

happened that day. This then becomes a collection of moments and the good thing about that is you get to relax when you use words on paper. You’re not worried about words, you are just telling the story.”

When Fishes Flew features many instances of discovering different cultures. Michael discussed with us the importance of children discovering the world. “In a way, I suppose this is why reading is very important. I’m not sure how else young people can discover about the world out there unless they read about it. They can look at a television, that’s one thing but you are only presented with a picture. With books you have to make an effort to place them in your imagination and your intellect. By doing this, it grows your take on the world. So for example in this book what can you do? Well you can go back in time thousands of years to when people believed in multiple gods in Ancient Greece. What else can you learn about Ancient Greece? Well you learn that it was the beginning of democracy. What’s democracy? Well it’s people who go voting. ‘Oh,’ you say, ‘we do that today!’ And then it connects us from past to present. You learn to look at the world through your own eyes and experience, then realise that there are other cultures, other languages, and they have much to give to the world, and you can write about them all!” primarytimes.co.uk/wiltshire

Wiltshire Advertising feature

Advertising feature

Fitness for life

Creative, crafty family fun

J C

raft Festival Cheltenham returns for its fourth event at Cheltenham Town Hall from Friday 11 to Sunday 13 March. The festival offers a creative, fun, and inspiring family day out.

A hundred of the finest designer-makers come together from across the UK for a celebration of craft, design and shopping.

The event also includes live craft demonstrations by members of the Gloucestershire Guild, bookable workshops and a free action-packed programme of activities for children.

“We’re bringing back the best in British craft to Cheltenham,” says Sarah James, director at Craft Festival. “Whether you love jewellery, ceramics, glass, textiles, woodwork or furniture, we have a fabulous collection of the finest designer-makers.”

The highly entertaining, immersive free children’s craft activity programme is led by Jim Parkyn, clay model maker and acclaimed Aardman Animation Ambassador, who’ll invite visitors of all ages to take part in his ‘Amazing Scene Machine’ workshops.

Plus, interactive craft workshops are led by jeweller Sally Davis and stoneware ceramics maker Adrian Bates, members of the Gloucestershire Guild. Workshops sell out quickly, so early booking is recommended.

Advance tickets Tickets to Craft Festival Cheltenham are on sale now, with advance booking important again this year. Ticket prices start at just £7 for a pre-booked adult day pass, and children under 18 visit free with an adult ticketholder.

See website for full details, tickets and safety measures.

Craft Festival Cheltenham W: craftfestival.co.uk/cheltenham primarytimes.co.uk/wiltshire

Save £25 when you sign up to any Wiltshire Council leisure centre membership by quoting the code PTJUN25

unior memberships at Wiltshire Council leisure centres are available from £9.99 per month and include unlimited swimming in public sessions for children aged 3 to 11, and swimming plus additional fitness suite usage for young people aged 12-15. Being active while growing up and developing habits that help to sustain positive long term lifestyle behaviours are really important for physical and mental health. With junior gym sessions provided specifically in many centres, and juniors able to use the council’s gyms (when accompanied by a responsible adult with gym induction), the opportunity to use these centres regularly can be achieved from as little as £1 every three days.

For those young people turning

16, the council’s leisure centres also offer a Young Adult membership which includes all gym use, unlimited swimming and access to all group exercise classes for just £20 per month. This helps to bridge the gap between junior and adult memberships and is available to 16 and 17 year olds. For more information on membership options and what’s included, visit Wiltshire Council’s leisure membership website. And,

Goat for it!

don’t forget, you can save yourself £25 on the admin fee, when you quote the code PTJUN25 when signing up at any centre

Wiltshire Council Leisure Centres W: www.wiltshire.gov.uk/ leisure-memberships Advertising feature

H

ope Nature Centre’s Animal Park and Café based in Trowbridge, is re-introducing a popular event just in time for half term. Goat Walks are back, and visitors are learning to love what for some may be a rather unusual activity. They take Hope Nature Centre’s friendly (and cheeky) goats for a walk around the 26acre park. After you’ve walked them, there’s a feeding and grooming session where keepers are on hand to answer questions and give fun facts. Tickets for the Goat Walks are limited and on a pre-booking basis only, so check the website for remaining availability.

Alongside the Goat Walks, the rest of the Animal Park is open, and visitors can say hello to a wide variety of creatures that call Hope Nature Centre home.

Wallabies, donkeys, cows, pigs and goats are just some of the

animals you can visit. Access to the Animal Park also includes four play areas, including the Adventure Play area, which is full of exciting equipment for children to “run wild”.

For those looking to stop off for breakfast or lunch, the Hope Nature Centre Café is the perfect place. With a wide range of freshly prepared breakfasts and lunches, you’ll find something

tasty to tempt your tastebuds.

There are also plenty of sweet treats and cakes to enjoy over a freshly prepared hot drink. Visitors will find Hope Nature Centre in Southwick Country Park, just outside Trowbridge, and it’s open seven days per week. Head to the website for more information.

Hope Nature Centre W: www.hopenaturecentre.org.uk FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022 13

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FOR THE KIDS

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TOO HARD? Why not ask a grown-up for ideas?

Children under 7 will find the yellow clues easier.

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How to play this mini-sudoko: fill the empty boxes with a number from 1 to 4. Each box, each row and each column contains all four numbers but the same number cannot appear twice in the same box, row or column.

The joke’s on us

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Question: Why couldn’t the pony sing a lullaby?

Answer: She was a little horse.

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hing to do with (abbreviation) (4) caught 7 Britain’s only venomous snake (5) 4. Acomputing large sea fish, often 2 Spot on! (5) or computer to work, sometimes it’s best to do 11 A very long time indeed (3)

Answers on our Facebook page, PrimaryTimesWiltshire after publication.

for food and sold in tins (4) 3 Magnificent mammals with very 14 The last bit, the credits, the final chapter of a book(6) Both a colour and a fruit (6)15 To leavelong noses or depart (2) (9) 17 Often made upknow of verses rhymes, thesesomepieces of writing often make us 9 A fantasy or ideal (5) 5 To orand comprehend w years...” (3) think more deeply about life (5) 10 General description for thing (10) 20 An upright, pointed shape often used for doors or windows (4) perhaps usedfor for cartoons cooking or heating. anything to do with computing21 A slippery 6 liquid Another word and (3) walk with (3) (abbreviation) (4) the second part of the name of that dried grass (8) 12 If you can’t get your phone or famous movie maker Aardman (10) computer to work, sometimes it’s 7 Britain’s only venomous snake (5) in early spring. (8) best to do this to it (5) 11 A very long time indeed (3) Starfish Publishing has an exciting opportunity for a friendly, 13 A doorway, maybe, or a hole in 14 The last bit, the credits, the final self-motivated person with a good telephone manner who’s a wall (7) chapter of a book (6) passionate about primary education and family activities. You’ll 16 The highest point (3) 15 To leave or depart (2) be a key member of a small team, joining a young, dynamic or18 Finish this expression,”a few 17 Often made up of verses and ganisation producing market-leading magazines read by tens of years...” (3) rhymes, these pieces of writing thousands of West Country families. Here, you’ll learn the world 19 Thoughts, brainwaves (5) often make us think more deeply of magazine publishing from the ground up.

22 Requirement (4) about life (5) If you’re...

23 The part of your body you 20 An upright, pointed shape often a good listener, walk with (3) used for doors or windows (4) able to construct a persuasive email, 24 A great big pile of straw or 21 A slippery liquid perhaps used for social-media savvy, dried grass (8) cooking or heating (3) organised and self-disciplined a good all-rounder ...we’d love to hear from you in a wall (7)8

Could you work for this magazine?

Win! tickets to two fabulous

T

West Country festivals

he oganisers of Wychwood Festival in June and Craft Festival Cheltenham in March have both kindly offered Primary Times readers the chance to win tickets to their events. Craft Festival Cheltenham features Aardman animator Jim Parkyn. Wychwood’s line up includes Boney M and Sophie Ellis-Bextor. Both competitions are online at www.primarytimes.co.uk/gloucestershire/competitions.

Enter before Tue 1 Mar for a chance to win.

14 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022

Your main role will be advertising sales but you’ll be asked to pitch in with social media, production management and editorial tasks from time to time.

Willingness to learn is more important than previous experience.

Flexible working hours, Competitive rates and commission Call Mike on

01452 937123 to find out more primarytimes.co.uk/wiltshire

Wiltshire

YS Y SA !

PETE LATIONS U AT

G CON

R

1

Petey’s Arty Party

What a wonderful response I had to my art competition last issue about autumn animals! (ok, so there were no parrots, but I like to think of myself as a summer creature, so maybe later this year...). It was an amazingly hard decision to choose the winners (labelled), so congratulations to them: they receive a children’s book. if you didn’t win, thank you for entering and try again next time!

If you’d like to enter Petey’s next art competition and have a chance to win a prize, send your pictures about...

winner

Getting messy outdoors

Annabelle Pennie, aged 8, at Zouch Academy, Tidworth has drawn this cute hedgehog living happily among trees, birds and other autumn animals

Olivia Dewey, 10, from Wanborough Primary School, Swindon.

This beautifully imagined hedgehog is so realistic, with evening colours depicting the spines. Keep up the good work, Olivia!

winner

to Petey the Parrot, Starfish Publishing, The Create Centre, Smeaton Road, Bristol BS1 6XN or high resolution images to wilts@primarytimes.co.uk

by Monday 7 March.

Don’t forget to put Petey’s Arty Party in the subject line, include your name, age, school and home address so we can send you the prize. See primarytimes.co.uk/gloucestershire/tcs

Julia Kozlowska, 8, from Eldene Nursery & Primary School, Swindon, has given us another brilliantly drawn hedgehog enjoying the leaves on the autumn breeze. She really has a good eye for detail and great technique for capturing texture and complementary colours.

Daisy Offen, 7, Wanborough Primary School, Swindon. Autumn is all about mists and dampness and Daisy has created this super-vibrant picture of an owl and a hedgehog on an autumn day. Beautiful!

Review

Light fantastic!

C

primarytimes.co.uk/wiltshire

Megan Duffy, 5, Queens Crescent Primary, Chippenham.

This picture of autumn animals having fun together among the trees is so full of enthusiasm and fun!

hristmas may seem like ages ago now, but this event is still fresh in our family memory and those with a penchant for planning may like to lightly pencil

soft-lit arbours.

This is certainly a sophisticated, display, with year-round appeal and perhaps aimed at the more discerning visitor, but children will

not obtrusively Christmassy but wintery and suitably mysterious. Then the spectacle opens up onto a breathtaking scene on Stourhead’s famous

it into their diary now - it comes round quickly, you know!

From the moment you enter the winding pathways of Stourhead Estate, it’s clear this is no ordinary festive display. You won’t find fairytale characters or giant luminous sweets here.

Instead you’re a character in your own modern fairytale, with trees which become giant neon light sculptures, luminous abstract displays, blazing archways and

love it, too, with a new spectacle around every corner.

Santa makes an appearance early on, secure behind his picket fence in a small courtyard with the frankfurter, hot chocolate and gluwein concessions.

The trail leads through a series of impressive individual displays, accompanied by classical music that exactly fits the tone of the occasion,

lake, adorned with a flotilla of “paper” boats which dance with colour. The designers take full advantage of the classical elegance of the temples and summer-houses around the lake, while the famous Palladian bridge forms the backdrop for an ingenious and snowy finale.

(Mike Gartside) Stourhead W www.nationaltrust. org.uk/stourhead/

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022 15

WORKOUT AS A FAMILY

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on a new leisure membership Use code BTJUN25 online to join and get discount.* *Offer ends 31 March 2022

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