East London February Half Term 2022 Primary Times by Alison Watson

What’s On Where East London

DAYS OUT • COMPETITIONS • EDUCATION & MORE...

FOR FAMILIES OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2022 31 JANUARY - 20 MARCH 2022 ISSUE 77

What’s On

What’s On Your family diary for February and March

Due to Covid 19 restrictions please do check with the venue that the listing is up to date before planning your visit.

Ongoing

and working towards performances. For more details and to apply, visit thames.towerhamlets.gov.uk/.

Daily

Every 3rd Tues

Bank Street Basketball, Canary Wharf, E14 4SG

Fusing his British and Nigerian heritage artist Yinka Ilori has designed an eye-catching and vibrant 3×3 basketball court unique to Canary Wharf.You are welcome to bring your own ball and play anytime between 12-9pm daily for free.Visit www.canarywharf.com for more details.

Short Story Stations, Canary Wharf, E14 4SG

KidsTime Workshop, International Praise Centre, E6 1EN

5-7.30pm. Fun group workshops for children aged 5-18, where a parent or carer in the family has a mental illness. They offer a safe, non-judgmental place where families can come together to talk and learn about mental illness. For more information visit www.families. newham.gov.uk

Teen Talk Online Workshop

Bringing literature to unexpected places, the delightful vending machines with a difference are back at Canary Wharf. Choose the length of your story, from classic to new writers and genres including children’s stories – ready to read on the go. To find out more visit www. canarywharf.com

Young people (10-16 years) can connect with peers in similar situations, share what’s on their mind and get helpful answers, information and support to cope with some of the challenges of having a parent with a mental illness. For more information visit www.families. newham.gov.uk

Children’s Floor Games, Canary Wharf, E14 4SG

Until 5 Feb

Alongside Minigolf in Columbus Courtyard, children’s fun floor games are making a return. Whether it’s a colourful hopscotch or space invader line maze, the games are the perfect afternoon entertainment. For more information visit www.canarywharf. com

Every Sat

Street Tennis, Roding Valley Recreation Ground, IG10 3LG

8.45-10am. Street Tennis is about having fun and playing games whilst improving skills such as co-ordination, movement and improving your tennis ability. This session is the perfect introduction to tennis for 4-12 year olds. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www. eppingforestdc.gov.uk

Street Athletics, Roding Valley Recreation Ground, IG10 3LG 10.15-11.15am. Epping Forest’s Street Athletics sessions for children age 4-12 years will help improve their co-ordination, balance and speed through athletics games, whilst having fun. Charges apply. For more information visit www. eppingforestdc.gov.uk

Every Mon (Term Time) Children’s Choir, Cayley Primary School, E14 7NG

4.30-5.30pm. Free for 7-11 yr olds who live or attend school in Tower Hamlets. Each session includes fun singing warm-ups, learning new songs

31 Jan - 20 Mar ‘22

National Storytelling Week, Nationwide

We all have a story to tell….what’s your story? What will you be telling and where will you be telling it? For more information and to sign up for a starter pack for your school visit www.sfs.org.uk

Until 17 Feb

Roman London Family Walk, Museum of London, EC2Y 5HN Go back 2,000 years and walk the streets of Roman Londinium! Visit the remains of a Roman city wall, the location of a long lost fort and Londinium’s hidden amphitheatre on this interactive tour for families. Advance booking essential. Visit www.museumoflondon.org.uk.

Until 26 Feb

Crown Making, Westminster Abbey, Deans Yard, SW1P 3PA 10am-1pm. This year we celebrate 70 years of HM Queen Elizabeth II’s reign. Join in to make a crown fit

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have the latest details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure they haven’t changed

“

I saw your event in Primary Times.... Please mention you saw the event listed in Primary Times

”

for a coronation. Ages 3+. For more information about this free event and to book tickets to the Abbey visit www.westminster-abbey.org

Ice Rink, Canary Wharf, E14

Get your skates on as the amazing ice rink returns for another season. Canada Square Park will be transformed with a traditional alpine theme and the covered rink will be decorated with thousands of twinkling fairy lights. To book visit www.canarywharf.com

Until 6 Mar

Beano: The Art of Breaking the Rules, Somerset House, WC2R 1LA

Revisit a much-loved childhood comic masterpiece and explore the Beano’s larger-than-life characters with your own little rebels. This exhibition will prove that there really is no age limit on the art of breaking the rules. Charges apply, under 6s free. For details visit www. somersethouse.org.uk/whats-on

Until 20 Mar

Picture the City, Bank of England Museum (Online)

This digital exhibition brings together eight landscape paintings showing us the beautiful scenery historic London has to offer. For more information visit www.bankofengland.co.uk/ museum/whats-on

Until 28 Mar

Hilarity Academy, The Chapel at St Margaret’s House, Bethnal Green, E2 9PL (Mondays only) 3.45-5pm. Hilarity Academy is a free, fun space for young people to learn and engage in the skill of making people laugh. Workshops include lessons on learning how to tell jokes, creating sketches, writing stand up material and clowning. Contact hilarity@ stmargaretshouse.org.uk.

Until 1 Apr

Midsummer Night’s Dream, Shakespeare’s Globe (Online)

To help teachers, parents and students with the challenges of teaching during the pandemic Shakespeare’s Globe are making their 2021 production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream available to watch for free in your school.Visit www. shakespearesglobe.com to register for access to the film.

Until 9 Apr

Mighty Mega In-Person Sessions, Discover Children’s Story Centre, Stratford, E15 4QZ (Every Sat) 10am-12noon. This is a free club for disabled children and children with SEN, and their families or carers. Create special, inclusive performances together using textures, puppets, music and storytelling. (No sessions 23 & 30 Oct). For more details visit www. discover.org.uk

Mighty Mega Digital Sessions, Discover Children’s Story Centre (Online) For people unable to return to the in-person Mighty Mega sessions, join Embracing Arts’ Artisitic Director, Claire Sundin, and take part in a series of interactive sensory stories. Explore a different theme each week via weekly emails sent every Sat. For more details visit www.discover. org.uk

Until 8 May

Family Sundays, Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, WC2E 9DD Explore the Royal Opera House, its artists and the world of opera and ballet. Each Sunday will be packed with creative and practical activities for all the family. Suitable for all, but activities are designed for children aged 3-10 years. Visit www.roh.org. uk for more details.

Until 17 July

Feeding Black: Community, Power & Place, Museum of London Docklands, E14 4AL

This brand new, free display spotlights four African and Caribbean businesses and their owners, exploring how they are much more than the services and goods they provide. For more details visit www. museumoflondon.org.uk.

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 6... Follow us on Instagram - @primarytimesse

Dear Readers Primary Times in East London 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG Tel: 020 8318 0400 Email: office@primarytimes.biz Website: www.primarytimes.co.uk Twitter: @PT_LondonSandE Instagram: @primarytimesse Publishing Editor: Peter Watson Sales: My Yen Doyle, Andrew Langridge, Gill Pearce & Catherine Dillon Listings: Claire Wood, Hayley Hughes Production: Alison Watson Office Manager: Chris Blower Administrator: Claire Wood Social Media: Rachel Benson Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in primary and junior schools throughout the boroughs of Barking & Dagenham, Havering, Newham, Redbridge, Tower Hamlets and Waltham Forest. 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 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. The opinions expressed in either the editorial or advertisements within this publication are not necessarily those held by the editor or publisher. While we take great care with the compilation of information within this magazine, neither the editor nor publisher will accept any liability for the accuracy of the editorial or advertising contained within the publication. We welcome listings being sent to us for inclusion in our What’s On section. Free listings are dependent on available space and we cannot guarantee to print all the listings we are sent. Please send them to listings@primarytimes.biz. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in the boroughs of Barking & Dagenham, Havering, Newham, Redbridge, Tower Hamlets and Waltham Forest 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. No part of this magazine, including the advertisements within it may be reproduced, in part or in whole, without the express written permission of the Publishing Editor. Primary Times is currently publishing over 2.5 million copies per issue under franchise licences throughout England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Primary Times East London is operated under franchise licence.

Christmas and the New Year seems a while ago now. It wasn’t the best time for many people but I wish you all a very happy and healthy 2022 and hope we’re back to normality soon. Claire and Hayley spend many hours looking for fun filled ideas to cover the school holidays. They are always looking out for new places to cover so if you have your own favourites that we don’t mention, please do let us know as it may be that we haven’t come across them yet. If you do visit any of our suggestions please mention you read about them in Primary Times - the best Family Guide to What’s On. If you are visiting any of our suggestions do make sure you check that the event is still going ahead. We live in very uncertain times currently and it’s always worth double checking. All our listings should have contact details on them but if you can’t find what you are looking for just give us a call. Calling all schools and teachers - Don’t forget to email us with your news or if you have something to celebrate in your school. We would love to hear from you so we can let all our readers know what you’ve been up to. Email us at office@primarytimes.biz with your latest news.

Contents

inside this issue.... What’s On.................................2 Calling All Teachers..................4 Whatever the Weather............. 7 Education News.............................8 Family Theatre.......................... 10 After School Activities.............. 11 Competitions........................... 13 All Your Own Work!................. 15

Are you following us in Twitter and Instagram? Follow us on Twitter so you don’t miss out on our competitions offering some fab prizes, info on events and updates from our advertisers. You can find us @Twitter/PT_LondonSandE. We also get sent lots of photographs so look out for our favourite ones on Instagram @primarytimesse. We’ll be back around the 21st March for the Spring school holidays - have a good half term.

Peter and the Primary Times team

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

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.

31 Jan - 20 Mar ‘22

Local News

Calling all Teachers...

Try Kumon’s One Week Free Trial Now

GRADUATE THE

SCHOOL OF SKATE

Amy d axle oing an drop -in!!!!

AND LEARN…… Resilience

Determination

Creativity

Perseverance

Confidence

SchoolofSkate.co.uk/schools

Teachers - are you looking for a new Enrichment Activity?

Graduate the School of Skate School of Skate is operating in South and East London schools and offers an alternative sport with many associated mental health benefits. Pupils can learn valuable life skills, like perseverance, independence, and selfdiscipline. Skateboarding contributes to wellbeing, with no rules, permitting play, freedom of expression and creativity. It is a social group activity that transcends cultural and gender boundaries. School of Skate offers a structured Appsupported learning programme developed over 5 years. Beginners perform The Drop In, to get their certification, exclusive T-Shirt and sticker pack! Teachers can visit www.schoolofskate.co.uk/schools for more information.

NAOPT Launches Website and Resources for Schools. The National Association of Therapeutic Parents (NAOPT) has launched a website packed with resources for all types of schools. By supporting schools and their teaching staff, the NAOPT hopes to raise awareness of development trauma. Children are among those most at risk when involved in a traumatic event. More common than most realise, 25% of victims of child trauma can develop mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety and PTSD. Distinguishing how to best help these children is the hardest element among teachers and parents. Especially keeping communication open between the two groups, which often causes different perspectives on a child’s behaviour from a home setting compared to a school setting. Designed to guide schools into an effective support system, members can access various resources on children’s mental health.These are useful for teachers to understand students’ behaviour, for schools who believe they’re missing a vital piece in understanding a child’s mind or even those who wonder why pupils don’t perform as they could. To learn more and become a member, visit www.schools.naotp.com 4

31 Jan - 20 Mar ‘22

At your local Kumon Upney Study Centre, their aim is to help children of any age and any ability discover their full potential and achieve beyond expectations. With over 60 years of experience, the Kumon Maths and English Programmes enable students to develop into confident, independent learners with strong study skills. Kumon is proud to be recognised as an education provider that delivers proven academic results. An independent research study revealed that Kumon students are over a year ahead of the national average, and over six months ahead of their peers in their maths learning at the end of primary school*. Kumon nurture their students by giving them the tools they need to enjoy learning and thrive academically, alongside preparing them for personal and professional success later in life. They believe this opportunity to grow on both an academic and a personal level should be available to all children. That’s why, from 1 February – 15 March, Kumon Upney Study Centre are offering a Free Trial to all new students. Enrol now for your one week Free Trial to get a glimpse of how Kumon could help develop your child’s abilities for the future. The Kumon Upney Study Centre is located at Hedgecock Community Centre, 28 Stephen Jewers Gardens, IG11 9FA with in-centre classes running on Tuesdays from 4.45pm to 6.45pm and Fridays 4.45pm to 6.30pm. Online classes run on Saturdays from 11am to 1pm. For more information, contact your local Instructor, Ghadeer Al-Salem, on 020 3007 7609 or email upney@kumoncentre.co.uk. * Study conducted in England, 2020. For further details, visit kumon.co.uk.

Get Ready to Jungle Rumble Perform drama school has announced its first venture into West End theatre shows. Jungle Rumble, an original family musical, will run during the February Half Term from 14 to 20 February at The Fortune Theatre in Covent Garden, marking a natural progression for the established and highly regarded drama school taking its acting expertise onto the stage. Perform runs children’s drama classes for ages 4-12 at venues across the UK. This January term, the children will be enjoying a new jungle theme and Perform has put together a sensational West End adult cast to bring the Jungle songs and dances to life on the stage in Jungle Rumble. Featuring thrilling choreography, uplifting songs and an inspirational message about working together to protect the Earth, Jungle Rumble tells the story of ancient elephant Eeli, shy zebra Zella and cheeky monkey Boo. They journey deep into the heart of the jungle on a fearless expedition to rescue Snow, the last white lion, from the evil Lord Braggard. More information about the event is available at www.perform. org.uk/junglerumble

"I wouldn't

At the Parenting with Anxiety Project at the University of Sussex, wish my anxiety they are focused on finding ways to help parents and children navigate the world with confidence. They know it is not always on my worst enemy." easy, but they believe it is possible. Help test a course designed to prevent children developing anxiety. If you feel anxious you may find yourself feeling worried If you are a parent who experiences anxiety and has a about your children. You may child aged 2-11 find out how you can make a difference. be concerned that they are feeling anxious too. Their parentingwithanxiety.org.uk 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 8-module online course. If you would describe yourself as high in anxiety and have a child aged 2-11, they would love you to join them. Half of the parents will do the course and the others will just answer questions. Everyone who takes part is playing an important role in helping children with anxiety. Visit www.parentingwithanxiety.org.uk for more information.

Adventures at Home

All too often our family lives follow a similar routine day after day, week after week, so that it can all get a bit humdrum. In Adventures at Home, Zoë Lake shows how to bring entertainment and excitement into your family’s lives with simple to follow, inspiring ideas for spending quality time with your family, making fun and memorable days, and all in the comfort of your own home. How about letting your children become a King or Queen for a day? Imagine they get to choose

what they want to do, and as their subjects you obviously have to obey (safety allowing of course) or organise an Obstacle Course in the garden to wriggle, jump, crawl, hop around, or if the mood is a little low, what better than a bit of Disco Fever to make people happy again? With ideas such as Make your Own Bunting, Spend the Night Outdoors, Study the Night Sky, Have a Cream Tea Party, Adventures at Home is packed with lots of inspiration for enjoyable

Local News

If You are Feeling Anxious You are not Alone!

things for families to do. No special equipment is needed. The book uses what you have around you. And you and your children end up with special memories to treasure for ever. Adventures At Home, 40 Ways to Make Happy Family Memories, by Zoë Lake is published by Pimpernel Press at a recommended price of £20 on 10 March.

Funny Is Power this Red Nose Day Red Nose Day is back on Friday 18 March – bigger, better and redder than ever! Whatever you and the children do, no matter how big or small, you can help people live free from poverty, violence and discrimination. So why not plan something special this Red Nose Day? Head over to www.comicrelief.com/rednoseday to explore a whole load of fun’raising resources, tips and ideas. Together, we have the power to change lives. Donate to Dress up Whether it’s dressing up or dressing down, wearing something different is a great way to sprinkle Red Nose Day joy on everyday activities – and of course, raise some money in the process. Capture the power of funny by encouraging superhero-style costumes – think Superman, Wonder Woman, or a brand new heroic creation. Children could even come dressed as someone they admire from their family or community – the more inventive, the better! If keeping it simple is more up your street, a classic non-uniform day is always a winner. Whatever you go for, just be sure to collect a small donation from all those well-dressed superstars. Sponsor the Superheroes What’s your school’s hidden talent? Does your class have a special superpower? Now’s the time to find out! Perhaps you’re great at singing, incredible at times tables, champions of the dancefloor or epic chefs. Choose your skill and set yourself a Red Nose Day challenge, asking for friends, family and classmates to sponsor your efforts and raise money for a great cause in the process. And remember, this one isn’t just for the kids! Pupils will love discovering their teachers’ hidden talents too, so get practising and prepare to take on what you do best for Comic Relief. Take on the Blue Peter challenge Get involved with this year’s Blue Peter challenge for the chance to have your superpower featured on the live special on Red Nose Day itself! Head over to www.bbc.co.uk/bluepeter to find out how to take part – and be sure to tune in on the day, whether that’s on BBC iPlayer or CBBC.

Bake a Difference A few delicious sweet (or savoury!) treats go a long way when it comes to spreading the Red Nose Day joy, so why not grab a recipe and encourage some baking action? Head over to www.comicrelief.com/primary to discover a whole host of yummy, child-friendly recipes, and just see if you can’t turn those cakes, biscuits and brownies into some serious dough. Set up a stall during lunchtime, break time or after school to give children a chance to sell their baked delights – whether they’re homemade, shop-bought, or a complete mystery. And for anyone wondering, eating definitely counts as taking part!

31 Jan - 20 Mar ‘22

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for February and March

February

“

I saw your event in Primary Times.... Please mention you saw the event listed in Primary Times

”

Tues 1 Feb-Tues 15 Mar Free Kumon Trial, Kumon Upney Study Centre, IG11 9FA

Kumon believe all children deserve the opportunity to grow on both an academic and personal level and are offering a free trial to all new students. For more information, contact your local Instructor, Ghadeer Al-Salem, on 020 3007 7609, 07949 625050 or email upney@ kumoncentre.co.uk.

family. Enjoy free performances, get stuck in with celebratory community activities and discover the museum’s historic connection to this spectacular festival. Visit www. museumoflondon.org.uk.

Sun 6 Feb

Luminescence, St Margaret’s House, Bethnal Green, E2 9PL 11-2pm. Ring in the Year of the Tiger with this special paper lantern making workshop. Each participant takes home their own lantern, adorned with their wishes for the new year. Recommended for ages 5+. Visit www.stmargaretshouse. org.uk/events for more details.

Wed 9-Sun 20 Feb

Imagine Children’s Festival, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX

Fri 4 Feb

Number Day, Nationwide

Take part in ‘Dress up for Digits’ and have a fun-filled day of maths activities and games, while raising money to support services such as Childline. For more information and to sign up visit www.nspcc.org.uk/ support-us/events-fundraising/socialspecial-events/number-day/

Sat 5 Feb

Lunar New Year, Museum of the Home, E2 8EA

11am-5pm. Welcome in the Year of the Tiger and celebrate the arrival of spring and the beginning of the new lunar year. There will be free activities for all ages, including a creative workshop with artist Chery Nguyen, games café, live storytelling and much more. Visit www. museumofthehome.org.uk

Sea Shanties Workshop, The Foundling Museum, WC1N 1AZ 2pm and 3.30pm. Enjoy learning and singing shanties with the London Sea Shanty Collective, a community choir based in East London. Each workshop runs for 35 minutes and is suitable for all ages. For more information, visit www. foundlingmuseum.org.uk.

Sat 5-Sun 6 Feb

Lunar New Year 2022, Museum of London Docklands, West India Quay, E14 4AL

Take the family to celebrate Lunar New Year together with a weekend of free activities for the whole

You will find the best children’s theatre, comedy, music, literature, dance and full-on fun for children with over 160 events jam-packed into 12 days and over 50% is free. For more details visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk/whats-on

Sat 12 Feb

Storytelling and Crafts, Discover, Stratford, E15 4QZ

1pm. Join Husna Rahman as she reads from ‘I Lost Something Special’, her very special debut story about coping with bereavement, and make your very own time-capsule in a craft activity. For ages 4+. For more information to www.discover. org.uk

Drawing and Eco-print Making, St Margaret’s House, Bethnal Green, E2 9PL (10-11.45am) Children will learn about colour theory in a fun, playful way and learn how to make colourgraph prints using recycled materials and produce their own set of prints. For 7-11 years. Charges apply.Visit www.stmargaretshouse.org.uk/ events for more information.

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have the latest details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure they haven’t changed

Sat 12-Sun 20 Feb

Vets in Action, ZSL London Zoo, Regent’s Park, NW1 4RY

Kids will be able to truly step into the role of a vet during a fun week of interactive family events celebrating their incredible work, the perfect experience for budding veterinarians! All activities are included in the entry price. To book your tickets go to www.zsl.org.

Sun 13 Feb

Creative Writing for Kids, St Margaret’s House, Bethnal Green, E2 9PL

(Also 16 and 19 Feb) Join awardwinning writer, Simon Maeder, for a creative writing workshop where you can learn how to build worlds. Learn the basics of how to design a world from scratch and start telling stories that take place there. Ages 8-11. Visit www.stmargaretshouse.org.uk/events.

Mon 14 Feb

Family Forest School Fun, Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre, Hornchurch Country Park, RM12 6DF

1.30-3pm. Look for minibeasts, build dens, use tools, dig, swing, climb and create! Take some lunch to eat together around the fire. Suitable for children ages 3-7 years accompanied by an adult. To book for this event visit www.essexwt.org.uk/events.

Snot, Sick and Scabs Show, Centre of the Cell, Whitechapel, E1 2AT

(Also 16 Feb) If you have ever wondered what snot, sick or scabs are made of, why cheesy feet smell so bad or how your body fights off microscopic monsters when they invade your body then this is the show for you. To book visit, www. centreofthecell.org.

Mon 14-Fri 18 Feb

Picture the City Family Workshops, Brunel Museum, Rotherhithe, SE16 4LF

1.30-3.30pm. Learn to master the arts like Marc Brunel and create your own watercolour wonder. Explore the Museum to find out just why the Thames Tunnel was described as the Eighth Wonder of the World. For more information visit www. thebrunelmuseum.com.

Tues 15 Feb

Sea Soundscapes Family Workshop, The Foundling Museum, WC1N 1AZ

(11am-1pm and 2-4pm). Make 3D models of seascapes from the exhibition ‘Fighting Talk’ and learn how to be a foley artist by making a soundtrack. Suitable for ages 5+. Booking is essential. For more information, visit www. foundlingmuseum.org.uk.

Storytelling: Yes You Can, Cow!, Discover, Stratford, E15 4QZ

1pm. It’s the nursery rhyme’s big performance but Cow is having second thoughts. She’s too scared to jump! What if she crashes? Join Rashmi Sirdeshpande & Rikin Parekh to hear this heart-warming story about believing in yourself and doing your best. Visit www.discover.org.uk.

Tues 15-Fri 18 Feb

Welcome Home Friend, Museum of the Home, E2 8EA

11am-4pm. A week of family activities exploring how we make ourselves and others feel at home. Expect beautiful storytelling, artist-led workshops and family activities celebrating Vietnamese culture and creators. Visit www. museumofthehome.org.uk for more details.

Wed 16 Feb

Bird Box Making, Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre, Hornchurch Country Park, RM12 6DF

(10-11am and 11.15am-12.15pm). Make a nest box for a robin or blue tit. Children must be accompanied by an adult and dress for the weather as the session will be outside. Suitable for children ages 5+. For more information visit www.essexwt. org.uk/events.

River Dipping, Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre, Hornchurch Country Park, RM12 6DF

(1.30-2.30pm). Meet at Hacton Lane car park and walk to a natural meander, where you will use nets and ID charts to discover and identify the creatures that live in the River Ingrebourne. Wellies are essential! For more information, visit www. essexwt.org.uk/events.

DIY Portraits: Fighting Talk, The Foundling Museum, WC1N 1AZ (11am-1pm and 2-4pm). Inspired by naval uniforms in the Foundling exhibition, design your own uniform and model it for a photograph with photographer Marysa Dowling. Suitable for ages 5+. Booking is essential. For more information, visit www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk.

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 14...

Due to Covid 19 restrictions please do check with the venue that the listing is up to date before planning your visit. 6

31 Jan - 20 Mar ‘22

Fun Days Out with the Family Happy 10th Anniversary to the Epping Ongar Railway

The Epping Ongar Railway started life in 1865 when an extension was opened to the railway that then ran only to Loughton. Bringing a railway to the towns of Ongar and Epping, with stops at North Weald and Blake Hall, transformed the futures of these areas and in particular Ongar. Allowing people and goods to travel to the city of London was a major boon to the area. However, despite attempts to keep

EPPING ONGAR RAILWAY

So what makes us unique? Well, other than our fantastic team of volunteers, who are eager to meet you: • We’ve got an impressive range of steam and diesel locomotives and unlike any other heritage railway – a wonderful fleet of heritage buses too. It really is three experiences* – one great value day out! • We’re the closest heritage railway to London. • We’re the only heritage line on the former London Underground network. • We’re the longest heritage line in Essex. • We’re triple award winners – including Heritage Railway of the Year in 2013 and Volunteers Award for Restoration of Ongar Station. Finalist in Essex awards for Best New Business and Best Small Attraction. • Our buses also serve all stops on the route, including Epping High Street.

www.eorailway.co.uk

passenger levels up, over time the numbers dwindled and in 1994 London Transport was successful in removing services between Epping and Ongar. Following a change in ownership in 2007, the new group worked hard behind the scenes and in 2012 regular services provided by steam and diesel resumed. Over the years the Railway has increased in size with a range of days out for families including the popular Santa Specials, appearances from Peppa Pig and her brother George, a Halloween ‘Scream and Steam’ and a unique regular bus service from Epping by traditional London buses. This is the Railway’s 10th Anniversary so if you’ve not had a chance to visit the Epping Ongar Railway this is the year to do so. Look out for some great events. All details are on the Railway’s website, www.eorailway.co.uk

The Secret Life of Vets

Kids can join in with Vets in Action at ZSL London Zoo this half term, Saturday 12 - Sunday 20 February. Vets in Action is an award-winning role-playing experience for budding veterinarians. They will be able to truly step into the role of a vet at ZSL London Zoo - during a fun week of interactive family events celebrating their incredible work. A great value day out, all Vets in Action activities are included in the entry price - book your tickets online now at www.zsl.org. Photo credit: ZSL London Zoo

SHOW YOUR REWARD CARD AND GET REWARD CARD THESE EXCLUSIVE TOP 5 OFFERS MAKE IT WHAT YOU W

15% OFF full priced treatments, excluding injectable tratements and products. Cannot be combined with other treatments. Non-transferrable.

15% OFF our entire menu.

Excluding offers and promotions.

10% OFF the entire bill.

Exclusions to conflicting promotions and offers apply.

10% OFF your purchase.

Excluding offers and promotions.

ANT .™

10% OFF everything.

Excluding items in sale or promotion.

TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT WWW.17ANDCENTRAL.CO.UK

01277 365200 Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

Whatever the Weather

WALT HAMS TOW.

31 Jan - 20 Mar ‘22

EPPING ONGAR RAILWAY

An 11-16 school passionate about providing a world-class education for the young people of Tower Hamlets.

@wappinghigh wappinghigh

31 Jan - 20 Mar ‘22

020 3597 3670 admissions@wappinghigh.org Wapping High School 153 - 157 Commercial Road London E1 2DA

Welcome to Wapping High School, a school proud to play a key role in the richly diverse community of Tower Hamlets. The school was set up in 2012 with the mission of ensuring that our students are creative, confident and determined in pursuing and achieving their individual goals. Wapping High welcomed excellent GCSE results both last year and again this year. The school also achieved the Ofsted Good rating in June 2018 acknowledging our ongoing commitment to allowing students to achieve success in all aspects of their school life and beyond.

Fantastic School Environment Wapping High is a proudly culturally diverse school in which everyone really does matter. There is a real sense of community here at Wapping High in which our highly personalised pastoral care and emphasis on wellbeing is greatly appreciated by everyone. Wapping High is a ‘coaching school’ where everyone, students and staff alike, are personally coached towards becoming the very best they can be. Wapping High School is a happy school which students are very proud of. If this sounds like an education you are looking for your child then please contact the school on admissions@wappinghigh.org and we’ll be glad to help you further.

"The school is small so children get the attention they need."

Like your child, Wapping High is on an exciting journey. Come and join us! Contact us for a school tour: • Explore our modern open-plan and vibrant school building. • See students in action, meet the teachers and Headteacher. • View the inspiring student artwork on display.

"Wapping High School offers personalised learning tailored to individual needs."

Continually impressive GCSE Results Every year, Year 11 leavers reap the benefits of their excellent motivation, resilience and courage throughout their Wapping High School adventure. As important members of the Wapping High family, we are so proud of all of their achievements, not least their fabulous GCSE results which fairly reflect the commitment shown to all of their studies. Equally, we are always delighted to see an ever growing number of students achieve five or more Grade 7s year on year and, more than ever now, more Grade 9s, which is a credit to everyone involved. A highly balanced Curriculum Our curriculum offer goes way beyond the National Curriculum with an emphasis on individualising learning for all our students in a broad and well balanced curriculum. Equally, soft skill development in leadership, IT and communication skills are a high priority at the school and a commitment to broadening horizons through collaborative ground breaking national and international partnerships is something the school is really proud of. In short, Wapping High School provides all students with a truly personalised and enriched curriculum to enable enhanced learning and to encourage everyone to be more confident, determined and curious about the world around them.

Wapping High School 153 - 157 Commercial Road London E1 2DA 020 3597 3670 www.wappinghigh.org enquiries@wappinghigh.org Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

31 Jan - 20 Mar ‘22

Family Theatre

invented man’s best friend - the 12-13 Feb dog. Join the two young heroes The Dark on their fun-packed comic Featuring vibrant new adventure. choreography and live music, The Dark is a universal, empowering 26 Feb story about facing your fears. Pinocchio Ages 5-10. Join Pinocchio on a fast-paced adventure of self-discovery, 16 Feb trying, failing and trying again to Josephine find a heart and become a real With passion, wit and jazz, this person. Ages 4+. play tells Josephine Baker’s story, from the slums of St Louis via the bright lights of Paris and into the hearts of the world. Ages 8+

5 Mar

The best shows around... Barbican

Box Office: 020 7638 8891 1-5 Feb

Stellaire

message about working together to protect the Earth. For more information visit Enjoy www.perform.org.uk/ the show! junglerumble

And don’t forget to say you saw it in

Greenwich Wonder at the mysteries of Theatre the universe Primary Box Office: 020 8858 and stars as Times! 7755 two virtuoso artists 11 Feb-26 Mar create a beautiful visual feast, Alarms and a graphic novel that literally emerges before your eyes. Excursions Ages 8+. This show takes a hilarious look at society’s tortuous relationship 26 Feb with modern technology. Singin’ in the Rain Exposing the double-edged It might have been the most relationship we maintain with well remembered scene of any the tools which aim to stimulate musical in history, but if you progress. are one of the few people who 26-27 Feb have never seen it, Singin’ In the Rain has a great deal to offer! The Snow Beast Set in Hollywood’s dying days of This show is a captivating silent movies. collision of storytelling, original music, puppetry and interactive 27 Feb science experiments, inspiring How to Build an budding scientists of all ages. Suitable for ages 6+. Orchestra When it comes to making Hackney Empire music, there’s nothing like an orchestra. Learn how the Box Office: 020 8985 2424 instruments come together to 19 Mar make onstage magic. Broadway Barking Box Office: 020 8507 5607 26 Feb

LDN Wrestling

The return of the bonecrunching superstars of LDN Wrestling, bringing a host of top American wrestling stars for two hours of rip-roaring entertainment for all the family to enjoy.

Fortune Theatre Covent Gdn WC2

Box Office: 0800 912 26971 14-20 Feb

Jungle Rumble

Perform drama school’s first venture into the West End has thrilling choreography, uplifting songs and an inspirational 10

31 Jan - 20 Mar ‘22

Anna Fiorentini Theatre School

Margo and Mr Whatsit

Sophia’s imaginary friend, Mr Whatsit, is always there with a joke to tell and a game to play. But when Sophia moves into her new foster home Mr Whatsit finds himself unimagined! Ages 4+.

16 Feb

11-12 Mar

17 Feb

Josephine

Josephine blurs the real with the imagined as we follow one woman’s incredible journey from the slums of St Louis via the bright lights of Paris and into the hearts of the world. Ages 7+.

19 Mar

Ready Steady Rave

Enter the rave club zone where little ones can share the spotlight with their grown-ups. DJ James spins a mix of House, Trance, Techno, Dubstep, Grime and Jungle with large screen projections. Ages 0-7 yrs.

Kenneth More Ilford Box Office: 020 8553 4466 10-12 Feb

Honk!

Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s beloved story of The Ugly Duckling, Honk! tells the story of an odd-looking baby duck, Ugly, and his quest to find his mother.

Join the school for a spectacular evening as students perform a variety of show-stopping numbers from well-known musicals and productions directed by top industry professionals. Ages 4+.

13 Feb

Half Moon Young People’s E1

Southbank Centre

Box Office: 020 7709 8900 www.halfmoon.org.uk 12 Feb

Ugg ‘n’ Ogg and the World’s First Dogg The truly mind-boggling story of how Ugg and Ogg made friends with the wolves and

Snow Queen

This spectacular production follows the story of Gerda and her quest to find her friend Kay, whom the Snow Queen has placed under an evil spell.

www.southbankcentre.co.uk 9 Feb

intotheclouds: SEND Audiences

Fluffy and soft and bright: welcome to the Cloud Factory for a playful, sensory and highly visual theatre experience. Ages 5-11.

Club Origami

What can we make with a single square of paper? With dance and live music, Club Origami invites the audience to create new ways of moving and thinking. Ages 2-5.

Little Murmur

Jump into a world of dance, technology and illustration to see this heartfelt journey take flight, telling an honest and funny tale about the trials and tribulations of seeing things differently. Ages 7-11.

17 Feb

ShayShay’s ShapeShifting Shenanigans

Jump aboard an adventure with ShayShay, Sophie Brain and Mahatma Khandi, from the stars in the sky to the fish in the sea and everything in between.

17-18 Feb

Butterflies

Through an uplifting tale of friendship, courage and facing your fears, this production explores anxiety for children aged 3-9 yrs.

19 Feb

A Pocketful of Songs

Julia Donaldson presents a musical show filled with muchloved characters, including Zog, The Highway Rat, Superworm and The Gruffalo. Ages 4+.

Wyndham’s Theatre, WC2 Box Office: 0344 482 5151 Booking until 24 July

Life of Pi

After a cargo ship sinks in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, a sixteen year-old boy named Pi is stranded on a lifeboat with a hyena, a zebra and a Royal Bengal Tiger. Time is against them – who will survive?

Burst into Spring with Perform The Anna Fiorentini Easter Rock School is BACK!

Calling all you wild boys and girls and anybody who wants to rock out in a week of singing, dancing and all round fun… the Easter Rock School is back! This exciting experience is being delivered by the award winning Anna Fiorentini Theatre & Film School which also has parttime branches during term times for 4-18 year olds. Their Easter School is designed for children and young people who want an exciting week of fun in their school break in which they get to make new friends, learn new skills and increase in confidence and self-esteem. With guidance from top industry professionals, you’ll learn new songs and dances, and with the addition of a little acting, you will soon be guitar-shredding, bass-slapping and air-guitaring your way through a rocking week that ends with a mini concert/performance for friends and family. So if you’re aged between 7-16 years old and want to get rockin’, sign up now and you’ll get the Early Bird Discount. To reserve a place, please complete the application form via the website, www. annafiorentini.com. And thanks to various Trusts/Foundations they are able to offer some full and partial scholarships in 2022 to students that may struggle with fees and want to attend term-time schools. For more information, please visit www. afperformingarts.com/theatre-and-film-school/about/scholarships

After School Activities

With mental health problems in children at an all-time high, it’s time to get those feel-good endorphins pumping and bodies moving with a Perform drama, dance and singing class. Perform is a different type of children’s drama school. They don’t focus on creating perfect dancers or the next child stars. Instead, they put children’s social development at the heart of their classes, using a specially formulated mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s true potential. Exciting termly themes keep young imaginations buzzing while small class sizes ensure lots of individual attention from experienced, professionally trained actors, dancers and singers. Classes are for children of all abilities. The only requirement is to be ready to have the best fun of the week! This term, 4-7s will be venturing into The Jungle on an all-singing, alldancing adventure to rescue Snow, the white lion. Meanwhile, 7–12s will enjoy a thrilling adaptation of Romeo & Juliet in Rome ‘n Jewels, set on the mean streets of London. Join Perform for an unforgettable three days (14 – 16 February) in a fairy tale forest during half term and see your child make friends with the woodland creatures with sweet songs and delicious dance routines. Discover the tempting Gingerbread House and outwit the evil Wicked Witch.Visit www.perform.org.uk/hansel for more information and venues. Classes run in Bow, Hackney, Exmouth Market, Haggerston, South Woodford, Walthamstow, Wanstead and Barbican. To book a free trial session, visit www.perform.org.uk/try. Primary Times readers receive a special £40 introductory discount when booking by 28 February and quoting PTEL280222.

31 Jan - 20 Mar ‘22

Word Search S G Q Y E K C O H P

G C U N E T B A L L

B S Y B G U R F C V G O L F I I O D U J K O T N I MD A H E S I N N E S L MA N CM A H D C N B M U T J A K M L Q A D S K I Y SW I MM I N

L L A B T O O F N G

Can you find all these words in the word search? Netball, Football, Hockey, Rugby, Athletics, Swimming, Tennis, Badminton, Dance, Gymnastics, Golf, Judo, Squash, Ski

Why did the golfer wear two pairs of pants? In case he got a hole in one!

Spot the Difference: In Picture B the bicycle wheels are green, there are 2 tennis balls. In the 2nd row the boy’s teeshirt is longer, the girl is wearing culottes, the final girl’s hair is much longer and a ribbon on the kite has changed to pink. Olympians: Lauren Price...Boxing, Jason Kenny...Men’s Keirin, Galai Yafai ...Men’s Flyweight, Laura Kenny...Women’s Madison, Max Whitlock...Pommel Horse, Adam Peaty...100m Breastroke, Mo Farah...5,000 metres, Jade Jones...Taekwando, Nicola Adams...Women’s Flyweight, Charlotte Worthington... Women’s Freestyle BMX, Giles Scott...Men’s Finn, Charlotte Du Jardin...Open Dressage, Rebecca Adlington...800m Freestyle, Katherine Grainger...Double Scull

atie c lown’s K Sports Spectacular

Spot the 6 Differences What is harder to catch the faster you run? Your breath!

What’s an insect’s favourite sport? Cricket!

Why didn’t the dog want to play football? It was a boxer!

Can you draw a picture or write a poem about anything to do with sport? Make it as bright and colourful as you can! Send it to us to have a chance of winning a Primary Times Tee Shirt AND seeing your prize winning entry published in the next Primary Times! Categories: ages 4-7 and 8-11 Please write your details in CAPITALS Name: Age: Address:

Postcode: School:

Send your entry together with this completed form to:

Annie's Competition, Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London, SE12 8LG or scan them both and email them to:

competitions@primarytimes.biz Closing date 4 March 2022. Good Luck!

Olympic Gold Medalists Join the Olympian up with the sport they won their gold medal for...

Lauren Price Jason Kenny Galai Yafai Laura Kenny Max Whitlock Adam Peaty Mo Farah Jade Jones Nicola Adams Charlotte Worthington Giles Scott Charlotte Du Jardin Rebecca Adlington Katherine Grainger

Double Scull Open Dressage Men’s Keirin Women’s Flyweight Boxing Men’s Flyweight Pommel Horse 100m Breastroke 5,000 metres 800m Freestyle Women’s Freestyle BMX Men’s Finn Taekwando Women’s Madison

A n s w e r s

Win Worzel Gummidge on DVD

Four glorious stories from the magical world of Worzel Gummidge, written and starring the multi-BAFTA award s have ??????? to give awaywinning to Mackenzie Crook, are now ders. For your chance to win, available on DVD and Digital Download. ????????????. Send your answer Inspiredtoby the classic books of Barbara ng with your name, age, Euphan Todd, Worzel Gummidge is hool and phone number to the treasured tale of a charming and mpetition, Primary Times, irreverent scarecrow who mysteriously k Mews, London SE12 8LG comes to life on Scatterbrook Farm. swer together with your details Thistoenchanting series is infused with a ns@primarytimes.biz with fun, mischievous spirit and is delivered the subject by Friday 28 February. with a timely environmental message. Worzel Gummidge includes four fun filled, family friendly adventures - Saucy Nancy, Guy Forks, Twitchers and Calliope Jane. Worzel Gummidge is distributed by ITV Studios and is available now from Amazon. We have five copies of Worzel Gummidge for lucky Primary Times readers to win. Just tell us who plays Worzel. See below for details of how to enter.

Your chance to win lots more prizes We have many more books, toys and games to win than we have room for on these pages. For your chance to win a prize follow us on

@PT @PT_LondonSandE and retweet to win

When the War Came Over COMP.indd 1

Win a Copy of When the War Came Home

Competitions

Competitions When the War Came Home by Lesley Parr is a mesmerising historical mystery set in the aftermath of World War One, from the author of The Valley of Lost Secrets. When Natty has to move to a new village, she meets two young soldiers who are still battling the effects of war. Huw can’t forget the terrible things he’s seen, but Johnny doesn’t even remember who he is. As Natty tries to keep a secret and unravel a mystery, she finds her own way to fight for what she believes in – and learns that some things should never be forgotten. The story includes an interactive clue so readers can unravel the mystery alongside the characters. When the War Came Home is published by Bloomsbury in paperback at £6.99. We have five copies of When the War Came Home for lucky Primary Times readers to win. Just tell us who wrote the book. See below for details of how to enter.

Win a box of books for your school

Primary Times are offering schools the chance to win a selection of great books for their library. We have a whole box full of titles from super stories to fun educational books. We have several boxes of books to give away and the titles in each may differ. To enter the competition send your name, address, phone number and the name of your school using the details below. 21/01/2022 16:58

To enter any of the competitions send your answer along with your name, age, school, address and phone number to Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London, SE12 8LG.

lots more prizes Don’t forget to include the name of the competition.

Alternatively email your answer and details to

competitions@primarytimes.biz with the competition name as the subject by Friday 4 March 2022. toys

ore books, n we have room for If you are entering more than one competition you can put all entries in the same envelope. or your chance Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE 31 Jan - 20 Mar ‘22

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for February and March

February Thurs 17 Feb

Which Way the Wind Blows, The Foundling Museum, WC1N 1AZ In this noisy practical workshop musician Sam Mumford will teach you how to make your own musical instrument inspired by nautical wind instruments. For more information, visit www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk.

Drag Pirates, Discover, Stratford, E15 4QZ

1pm and 3.45pm. Hear the story of The Drag Pirates from their captain: The Admiral Half-Nelson. Then get crafty and make yourself some Drag Pirate headgear. Free with your session pass, for children ages 4+. Visit www.discover.org.uk.

Fri 18 Feb

Navigate, Fabricate, The Foundling Museum, WC1N 1AZ Become a master navigator by making your own compass and telescope. Join artist Julie Vermeille and create your own personal compass and telescope to navigate your way around the museum. Suitable for ages 5+. Booking is essential. For more information, visit www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk.

Gut Feeling Show, Centre of the Cell, Whitechapel, E1 2AT

This show will unravel the fascinating structure and function of the digestive tract, why ‘we are what we eat’, what happens to the gut of patients with bowel diseases, and what makes the perfect poo! Suitable for 7-14 year olds. For more information and to book visit, www. centreofthecell.org.

Sat 19 Feb

Relaxed Opening, Tower Bridge, SE1 2UP

10.30, 10.50 and 11.10am. Experience a quieter and calmer Tower Bridge. Families are able to explore the towers, glass floor and engine rooms and also take part in a family trail if they wish. For any questions contact learning@towerbridge.org. uk, call 020 7940 8397 or visit www. towerbridge.org.uk

Drawing and Eco-print Making, St Margaret’s House, Bethnal Green, E2 9PL

(10-11.45am) Children will learn about colour theory in a fun, playful way and learn how to make colourgraph prints using recycled materials and produce their own set of prints. For 7-11 years. Charges apply.Visit www.stmargaretshouse.org.uk/events for more information.

Quest for the Windrush, St Margaret’s House, Bethnal Green, E2 9PL

12.30-1.30pm. Journey back in time to the Windrush voyage, learn about the famous musician passenger Lord Kitchener and explore what settling in Britain was like for the Windrush’s passengers. Visit www.stmargaretshouse.org. uk/events for more information.

Sun 20 Feb

From LT to LRT, Epping Ongar Railway, Ongar, CN5 9BN

Go along to the first bus event of 2022! The running day will feature vehicles operating additional routes through the glorious Essex countryside, with a dusk photo run. Further vehicles will be on display at North Weald station. Visit www. eorailway.co.uk for more details.

Sat 26-Sun 27 Feb

London Film and Comic Con, Olympia London, W14 8UX

9am-6pm. An event that brings some of your favourite stars from TV, film and comics as well as a whole host of fun activities including photoshoots, panels, autograph sessions and hundreds of stalls full of merchandise to browse. To book tickets visit www. londoncomicconspring.com

Sea Shanties and More, Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, SE10 9LW

An interactive musical workshop for children aged 3-8 and their grown-ups. Go on a musical journey with Mambo Jambo in this interactive session with sea shanties, steel drums, body percussion and dance moves. Charges apply. For more information visit www.ornc.org/ whats-on/sea-shanties

“

I saw your event in Primary Times.... Please mention you saw the event listed in Primary Times

March Thur 3 Mar

”

World Book Day

Join in this celebration of authors, illustrators, books and (most importantly) a celebration of reading. In fact, it’s the biggest celebration of its kind, designated by UNESCO as a worldwide celebration of books and reading. For more details visit www. worldbookday.com

SPINE Festival 2022, Various Locations

The SPINE Festival is for children and families with the theme ‘Kindness’ and will take place throughout the month across libraries in the heart of London’s communities, both digitally and in person. For more information visit www.ideastore.co.uk/childrenfamilies

Fri 4-Sat 5 Mar

Childcare & Education Expo, Olympia London, W14 8UX

10am-4pm. A popular show for everyone working in the early years and primary sectors. The events are designed to inform and inspire visitors giving them fresh ideas, activities and resources to take back to their education settings. To sign up visit www.childcareeducationexpo. co.uk.

Fri 11-Sun 13 Mar

MOVE IT, ExCel London, E16 1RS The world’s biggest dance event is a celebration of all things dance, welcoming all styles and dancers together under one roof. No matter what level you are MOVE IT promises to bring some of the most exciting features alongside the hottest talent. To book tickets visit www.moveitdance.co.uk.

Fri 11-Sun 20 Mar

British Science Week, Various Locations

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have the latest details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure they haven’t changed

Join in a ten-day celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths. The theme for the 2022 poster competition is ‘Growth’ and the poster competition deadline is 15 April. For more details and to view the full programme of events visit www.britishscienceweek.org

Sat 12 Mar

Yard Sale, Museum of the Home, E2 8EA

Prepare your home for spring and visit Kingsland Road Gardens as they are transformed into a giant yard

sale.You’ll find an eclectic mix of attic clear out gems alongside exclusive homewares from Hackney-based designers. For more information visit www.museumofthehome.org.uk

Sun 13 Mar

London St Patrick’s Day Festival 2022, Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN

12noon-6pm. This pinnacle event in London’s cultural calendar showcases the best of Irish arts, performance, culture, food, and music from both Britain and Ireland. For more information visit www.london.gov. uk/events.

Sat 19 Mar

Relaxed Opening, Tower Bridge, SE1 2UP

Plundered!, St Margaret’s House, Bethnal Green, E2 9PL

2.30-3.30pm. When searching for hidden treasure, a famous selfish pirate captain has left a once beautiful tropical island littered with rubbish and its inhabitants struggling to survive. It’s up to Maggie and Roy to save it. Family theatre for ages 5+. Visit www.stmargaretshouse.org.uk/ events.

Fri 18 Mar

Red Nose Day 2022, Nationwide

People across the UK will be coming together to do things big and small, that will add up to something massive. Comic Relief spends the money raised to help people living tough lives across the UK and Africa. For fundraising packs and more info visit www.comicrelief.com/ rednoseday

Mon 21-Fri 27 Mar Shakespeare Week, Nationwide

An annual celebration giving primary school aged children opportunities for enriching and enjoyable early experiences of Shakespeare. For more information and to register for free resources and events information visit www. shakespeareweek.org.uk Our next copy deadline is

4 March 2022 If you have something you would like us to try and publicise (space permitting) please email it to

listings@ primarytimes.biz

Due to Covid 19 restrictions please do check with the venue that the listing is up to date before planning your visit. 14

31 Jan - 20 Mar ‘22

All your own work!

Nayyara Taiba aged 6

Margaret Gbadamosi aged 11

competitions in our Christmas/Winter 2021 Congratulations to the following people who won er of the Nintendo Switch with Blaze and the magazine. Honor Morgan was the lucky prize winn l winner. Nayyara Monster Machines. Deacon Miles was our Paw Patro If you would like r 8's and our older Taiba won Annie's drawing competition for the unde to see your work our competition winners on winner was Margaret Gbadamosi. Well done to all displayed here then just send us a drawing, this page and enjoy all the artwork! poem, riddles, jokes or short story and we'll do our very best to include it. Send it to: Good Work Page Primary Times 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG

Thank you to Ayaan Talukdar aged 5 for his really fun piece on Zog and to sisters Annaliese aged 6 and Anastasia aged 8 for their lovely, colourful drawings. We love seeing your work so do please keep sending it to us. We're happy to receive artwork from the whole class so do feel free to send us class entries.

ONE_WEEK -

FREE TRIAL 1 FEBRUARY - 15 MARCH Kumon delivers proven academic success. Our expert Instructors will develop your child’s confidence and help them thrive at school. Book your Free Trial today!

Upney Study Centre 07949 625050 AT HOME | IN CENTRE | ONLINE For research findings on Kumon study, please visit kumon.co.uk. Terms and conditions apply. Fees vary. Participating centres only. Please refer to your local study centre. Subject to availability.

kumon.co.uk