Kent Sept/Oct 2020 Primary Times by Alison Watson

What’s On Where Kent

FAMILY DAYS OUT

CHOOSING YOUR NEW SCHOOL

DAILY DIARY OF WHAT’S ON

47,100 COPIES FOR FAMILIES OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE 124

T i m i L e h t Sky’s

NTURE E V D A T A GREA R ALL O F T U O DAY ILY! M A F E H T

dino golf

climbing wall

sky trail

segway terrain

Safety is our top priority during your visit so we’ve made some changes. Visit our website to find out how we’re keeping our adventurers safe.

BOOK ONLINE NOW to secure your place at

www.moteparkadventure.com

or just turn up! Mote Avenue, Maidstone, Kent ME15 7RN

MoteParkAdventure

*This consumer mark is to confirm we are compliant with Government and Public Health England guidance and COVID-19 Risk Assessment is in place.

Hi Readers Primary Times in Kent 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG Tel: 01622 522116 Email: office@primarytimes.biz Website: www.primarytimes.co.uk Twitter: @PT_Kent Instagram: @primarytimesse Publishing Editor: Peter Watson Sales: Gill Pearce, Catherine Dillon & Andrew Langridge Listings: Catherine Draisey Production: Alison Watson Office Manager: Chris Blower Administrators: Claire Wood & Tina Love Social Media: Rachel Benson Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in infant and primary schools throughout Medway and Kent. 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 Medway and Kent 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 Kent is operated under franchise licence.

We are so glad to be back after such a long time of not printing. When we last published a magazine, back in March, we had no idea that we wouldn’t publish another one until now. What a difficult and stressful time it’s been for everyone. I really hope that life returns to normal soon. Thank you so much to all the school staff for helping to hand out Primary Times this month. We’ve worked really hard to be able to publish this issue. Thank you to all our staff, advertisers, suppliers and schools who have supported us. Our magazines were delivered wrapped in protective bags and packed in cartons so thank you to our printers and distributors too for taking such care. September is when we publish our comprehensive Choosing your New School feature, designed to help Year 5 and Year 6 pupils decide on which secondary school to choose. Some schools are hoping to hold open days at the schools while others are going to hold virtual open days. (Some schools didn’t know at the time of us going to press.) We haven’t been able to publish our open day tables this year, but we have included a table of secondary schools so do check when and how they are organising their open days this year. Many businesses have been hit very hard with the lockdown and sadly not every business will survive. Now that times are hopefully getting a little easier do try and support your local businesses. They really need you. Stay safe and well.

Contents

inside this issue.... Local News...............................4 Performing Arts.........................5 What’s On.................................6 Choosing your New School..........7 School Open Day Links........... 18 What’s New............................. 19 Film & DVD Review.................22 Katie Clown.............................24

Peter and the Primary Times Team This magazine is audited by BPA Worldwide 47,100 copies - Easter Edition 2019

WE ARE BACK! With three storeys of soft play, a host of interactive dinosaur activities and endless adventures to be had in our evolved safer environment, bring your little rangers to Dinotropolis at Bluewater this September!

Book online and see our NEW safety procedures at WWW.DINOTROPOLIS.CO.UK

GOOD. CLEAN. FUN.

Sept - Oct 2020

25/08/2020 15:383

Latest News 4

A Perfect Autumn Day Out at Pumpkin Moon Be Adventurous in Mote Park Mote Park Outdoor Adventure is open and the Adventure Team can’t wait to see you! Just 10 minutes from Maidstone Town Centre, Mote Park has some incredible activities for adventurers of all ages. The attraction is certified as ‘Good to Go’ by Visit England for meeting or exceeding Government and public health guidance for COVID-19.Visit the website for details on hygiene, social distancing and one-way systems so you know what to expect when you visit. Now, let’s talk about their activities! Dino Golf is 9 holes of ROAR-SOME mini golf fun for everyone. Look out for special facts about Maidstone’s resident dinosaur, Iggy, as you go round this specially-designed course. The Climbing Wall is a 32ft tall challenge to conquer or you can reach for the skies with dual-level Sky Trail high ropes that also reach up to 32ft. If you prefer a bit of speed, set off on an adventure to remember and experience the thrill of riding a Segway on a special purpose-built, off-road course. It’s fun, easy, safe and a great family day out. Visit the activity pages on the website www.moteparkadventure. com for full details on age, height and other rules.You can buy your tickets online to minimise waiting times and guarantee your activities before you visit.

Sept - Oct 2020

Pumpkin Moon is a family run business that offers PYO pumpkins at three sites, in Maidstone, Rainham, and new for 2020 they are opening in Bapchild. With over 80 different varieties of pumpkin, squash, gourd and a maze made of maize, PYO at Pumpkin Moon offers a fantastic family day out. Primary Times spoke to owner, Charlie Eckley, who told us, “At Pumpkin Moon we want to offer a fun day out for families and foodies alike. All sites have a small maize maze, but due to Covid we will not be having face painting or food demo’s this year. However, due to all sites being a minimum of 15 acres in size we will be able to ensure social distancing, as well as following all government Covid recommendations”. Entry to Pumpkin Moon is free with pumpkins costing from just £1 each and there are delicious food and beverage stalls. Fancy dress is always encouraged.

This year Pumpkin Moon is continuing to support Demelza House Children’s Hospice, the Heart of Kent Hospice and the British Heart Foundation. You’ll find Pumpkin Moon farms in Old Chatham Road, Sandling, ME14 3BE, Lower Rainham Road, Rainham ME7 2YA and Fox Hill, Bapchild, ME9 9AB. They’re open 10-11 and 17-18 October and then daily between Friday 23 and Saturday 31 October from 10am to 4pm. For more information, visit www.pumpkinmoon.uk or follow them on Facebook or Instagram, searching for pumpkinmoonuk.

A Safe Return to Jigsaw Performing Arts

Jigsaw Arts celebrated 25 years this summer, but they certainly didn’t expect to have the year we have had! But they are delighted to be back doing what they love doing, after a challenging few months. Health and safety have always been their number one priority, but they have further enhanced procedures in all their schools now, ready for a return this autumn. They ran a hugely successful trial of these new systems in one school during the summer, to ensure that they created a safe environment, whilst still providing a fun and creative outlet for students. Sessions are designed to develop children’s confidence, focus and social skills from an early age, giving them a head start in life. Performing arts is great for well-being and happiness. Dance really gets bodies moving, excellent for aerobic fitness and co-ordination. Learning to use breath and voice to make a great sound in singing is exhilarating and improves the speaking voice. Drama combines movement and voice as well as lots of teamwork and thinking on your feet which builds confidence, creativity and self-esteem. There is nothing better than performing arts to connect and bring people together. It’s also lots of fun and lots of laughs - just what we need right now! For more information or to book a two-week trial, search for your nearest school on their website www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk.

Razzamataz Theatre Schools Open their Doors to Students

Performing Arts

Razzamataz Maidstone & Medway are preparing to get back to the classroom from September. When schools closed their doors in March, Razzamataz Maidstone and Medway were determined not to abandon their families and took the classes online for all students ranging in age from two to eighteen. As well as the regular classes, the students have been enjoying special guest workshops with stars from West End shows including The Lion King, Hamilton and Les Miserables as well as a Zoom class with Sky 1’s Got to Dance. To continue to inspire students, the teams at Razzamataz have been non-stop with activities. The Seniors Zoom Evening In allows all the oldest students to catch up and get creative with set team projects. There was also an online performance of Rent on social media, which achieved 10,000 views across Instagram and reached 13,000 people of Facebook. Before reopening, all of the schools have completed a COVID-secure health and safety audit to ensure the safety of students, families, staff and wider communities. To find out more about joining the Razzamataz community, please contact either medway@razzamataz.co.uk or maidstone@ razzamataz.co.uk. or visit www.razzamataz.co.uk

Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools

dr ama singing dance for 2-18 years

H E A LT H Y T AND SAFE P O T OUR PRIORITY School in:

Sevenoaks

We are the ideal place for young people aged 2-18 with an interest in performing to learn Pop Singing, Street Dance, Musical Theatre and Drama!

3–18 years

TWO WEEK TRIAL AVAILABLE. BOOK NOW!

Find your nearest school at: Jigsaw-arts.co.uk Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

For Medway call Louisa on 01634 893524 or email medway@razzamataz.co.uk For Maidstone call Charlotte on 01622 322817 or email maidstone@razzamataz.co.uk Sept - Oct 2020

What’s On

What’s On Your family diary for September & October

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

Ongoing

September

Until 31 Mar Falconry Displays, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL

Thurs 10 – Sun 13 Sep Craft Fair, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

1.30pm, 3.30pm until 30 Sep, 2pm Weekends and school holidays Oct – Mar. Free flying displays take place in the Falconry Arena featuring a range of birds including Hawks,Vulture, Falcon and Owls. In adverse weather conditions display may be shorter or cancelled. For more details visit www.leedscastle.com

A contemporary craft fair with around 120 exhibitors from the UK’s finest designer makers and contemporary artists. Little ones (aged 7-14) can also enjoy the Tudor Towers adventure playground, and then some family time in the café. For more information visit www.hevercastle. co.uk

FRNETE RY E

“

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

”

Sun 13 Sep Cream Tea in the Castle Chamber, Tonbridge Castle, TN9 1BG

Enjoy a cream tea in the atmospheric wood-panelled Chamber. Cream tea consists of two locally baked scones with jam and clotted cream and a choice of tea, coffee, hot chocolate or juice. Booking is essential. For more information and to book visit www.tonbridgecastle.org

Sat 19 Sep Boot Fair, Park House Animal Sanctuary, Stelling Minnis, CT4 6AN

From 8am. Find a bargain at this boot sale, whilst helping to support The Lord Whisky Sanctuary Fund. There will be live music from the East Kent Piping Society, tombola, raffle, refreshments and more. Admission by donation. For more information visit www.lordwhisky. co.uk

Focus on Strood, Broomhill Park, Rochester, ME2 3NB th

11 & Sun . ct th Sat 10 Open h Sun 18 O . t & st Oct 7 1 t Sa at 31 rd to S Fri 23 -4pm 10am th

Oct.

FOX HILL, BAPCHILD, SITTINGBOURNE, ME9 9AB LOWER RAINHAM ROAD, RAINHAM, ME7 2YA SANDLING, MAIDSTONE, ME14 3BE

Sept - Oct 2020

10.30am-4.30pm. Go along for a jam-packed family fun day out with activities. Free. For more information visit www.medway. gov.uk

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have up to date details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure the information hasn’t changed.

Sat 19 – Sun 20 Sep Pub in the Park’s Drive-In Garden Party, Eridge Park, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 9JT Each party gets their own private garden where you can park and party with friends or family. There’ll be incredible live music and delicious pubs and restaurants serving food from top chefs and shopping from artisan producers. Booking is essential. For more information visit www. driveingardenparty.com

Fri 25 – Sun 27 Sep Battle of Britain Airshow, Headcorn Aerodrome, Ashford, TN27 9HX

The show combines choreographed Battle of Britain era aircraft displays with family-friendly attractions and re-enactments. It has something for everyone! Booking is essential. For more information visit www.bobairshow. co.uk

October Thurs 1 Oct National Poetry Day, Nationwide

Join in the fun in this UK-wide celebration of poetry. This year the theme will be Vision. The day generates thousands of amazing events across the UK in a variety of venues. For more details and to sign up visit www. nationalpoetryday.co.uk

Thurs 1– Sun 25 Oct Autumn Colour, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG As the air turns crisp a rich display of autumn colour envelops the countryside. Take your walking boots or wellies to enjoy the

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 20

Choosing your New School with

The definitive guide to open days for that all important decision.

At every age of their development, your child is an individual growing in confidence, resilience and experience.

Choosing your New School

Choosing your Child’s Secondary School

It’s been a strange year – there’s an understatement if ever there was one. However, some things still have to happen and choosing your child’s secondary school is one of those. If your child is in Year 6, you still need to submit your application by the end of October. If they’re in Year 5, it’s also good to get your ideas together now. Choosing a secondary school may at first appear to be a daunting and complicated decision faced by parents. However it doesn’t need to be. Although it’s important and with so many schools to choose from, with so many variables and specialisations, there are ways to make the process of finding the best school for your child easier. We have lots of ideas here as well as a table of local school websites to help you. Schools are telling you about themselves in different ways. Some are still holding open days but numbers are limited to maintain safe social distancing and booking is almost always required. So make sure that you register nice and early so as not to miss out. Others are doing virtual open days but numbers may still be limited and attendance and appointments to speak online to staff may still need to be booked so don’t leave it too long.

Opportunities at The Hayesbrook School

The Hayesbrook School inspires student aspiration through excellent teaching and a wide and varied curriculum. It places a strong emphasis on enrichment opportunities through a multitude of after school activities and visiting speakers as well as local, national and international trips and visits. Offering students new opportunities develops confidence and self-esteem which in turn supports academic success. In association with Chelsea Foundation Football Academy, the school offers a unique opportunity for students who are serious football players, both male and female, who want to study level 3 qualifications to combine their academic studies and train like professionals with UEFA certified coaches. The School is also proud to have its own Combined Cadet Force (CCF) available to students, and works in partnership with Tonbridge School to offer students a full range of opportunities including off site experiences to apply their skills and knowledge. Together, the new cadets develop qualities such as self-discipline, loyalty and respect, strong leadership, teamwork and resilience that will help them achieve excellence and shape their own future. The school’s focus to motivate students has supported the development of a whole new curriculum which was launched during 2019. This includes a new approach to teaching English. The school’s approach has adopted and applied the Rehearsal Room Shakespeare approach, where the aim is to extend students’ ability to explore the English language in the same way actors do when rehearsing a play. Students are encouraged as a group to collaboratively establish the world in which a story takes place, tell the story, reveal the characters and explore the language. From September 2020 the curriculum experience for students is being carefully re-modelled again in order to ensure adequate opportunity to catch up with progress that time away from school may have affected, during the pandemic. With a strong emphasis on developing reading and vocabulary, students will also have additional time to accelerate their numeracy and literacy skills. For more information, please visit www.hayesbrook.kent.sch.uk.

St Joseph’s Convent Preparatory School St Joseph’s is an independent Prep and Pre-Prep (nursery) school for three to eleven-year-olds, in Gravesend. They pride themselves on offering educational excellence with a varied programme of extra-curricular activities and events to help their children develop into independent learners, to prepare them socially, morally and culturally for the world that awaits them. St Joseph’s pupils benefit from an exceptional curriculum with small class sizes allowing for more focussed and tailored learning. All children, from pre-prep to Year 6, also have lessons with specialist teachers in languages, speech and drama, music and physical education. This is all achieved while keeping fees affordable. The school’s proprietors, the Sisters of Mercy, founded St Joseph’s to offer an excellent education to as many children as possible. To achieve this, all income is reinvested into the school, keeping the fees as low as possible. Situated in Gravesend, the school has easy access to the A2 and M2. It is also near Ebbsfleet and Gravesend train stations. St Joseph’s offer breakfast and after school clubs for wraparound care from 7.30am to 6pm every day for extra flexibility for parents. Email secretary@sjcps.org for more information and a prospectus or visit www.sjcps.org.

The Hayesbrook School, Tonbridge If you’re serious about your future success visit our website for details of our upcoming open events.

Find out more at

www.hayesbrook.kent.sch.uk The Hayesbrook School Brook Street, Tonbridge, Kent, TN9 2PH Telephone: 01732 500600

Opportunity, Aspiration, Success 8

Sept - Oct 2020

The former home of Charles Dickens, Gad’s Hill, is an independent day school in Rochester, Kent, for girls and boys aged between 3 and 16 years old. Set in more than 12 acres, Gad’s Hill boasts modern facilities while retaining many of its traditions since being founded as a school in 1924.The new part of the school, including a theatre, refectory and sports hall, was built in 2013 and sits aside the 18th century country manor where Dickens lived until his death in 1870. A typical day at Gad’s Hill may see senior students study English in Dickens’ former bedroom before exercising on the indoor climbing wall in the school’s purpose-built sports hall. From the Nursery, which is set in the great author’s apple orchard, to GCSE lessons, class sizes are small, allowing teachers greater knowledge of pupils’ individual strengths and personalities. The broad curriculum values practical and vocational subjects alongside the more traditionally academic, with pupils able to follow a pathway to GCSE in Art, Design Technology, Drama, Food Preparation & Nutrition and PE in addition to Mathematics, English, Science, History, Geography, Spanish and Computer Science. Music BTEC is also available.At the same time, the innovative Combined Cadet Force programme offers a suite of qualifications, including Institute of Leadership and Management, BTEC, Duke of Edinburgh and First Aid awards that deliver the vital life skills to equip leavers for adult life. The school works in partnership with the University for the Creative Arts, recently named Modern University of the Year 2019 by The Times’ Good University Guide, to train and inspire the creative talents of its students. Additional co-curricular activities throughout Gad’s Hill include London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art courses (LAMDA), fencing, rock climbing, dance, singing and instrumental music lessons. Gad’s provides a bus service throughout Gravesham, Longfield, Kings Hill and Medway for junior and senior students and offers wraparound care from 7.30am-6pm for kindergarten and junior children. For more information, please visit www.gadshill.org.

St Joseph’s Convent Preparatory School An Independent Day School for 3 to 11 year olds Listed in the Sunday Times Top 100 Independent Primary Schools in England 2019

Choosing your New School

Study in Charles Dickens’ Former Home at Gad’s Hill

Open Evening Wednesday 23rd September 5pm - 8pm Visits are by appointment only due to social distancing. Email secretary@sjcps.org to book your place or visit www.sjcps.org for more informa�on. Educa�onal Excellence Onsite Swimming Pool

Wraparound Care Tradi�onal Values

Aﬀordable Fees Small Class Sizes

46 Old Road East, Gravesend, Kent, DA12 1NR

GAD’S HILL SCHOOL Independent Day School in the home of Charles Dickens

Founded in 1924 For children aged 3–16 years

Set in over 12 acres. Located in Higham, Rochester, Kent

VIRTUAL OPEN DAY

Visit us virtually today to learn more about life at Gad’s Hill School www.gadshill.org/admissions/virtual-open-day/

4 Small class sizes allow teachers greater knowledge of our pupils’

4 Scholarships are available for Senior School applicants. individual strengths and personalities. 4 Wraparound care 4 School bus routes throughout Gravesham, Longfield, Kings Hill and Medway. 4 Combined Cadet Force (CCF) delivered from Year eight to develop team building and leadership skills. 4 Forest School .

Call 01474 822366 or visit www.gadshill.org #GadsFamily Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

Sept - Oct 2020

Choosing your New School

Leigh Academy

The Leigh Academy in Dartford offers excellent learning opportunities to all their students from Year 7 to Year 13. As the flagship academy of Leigh Academies Trust they have an inspirational building hosting modern technology and fantastic facilities. Leigh Academy ensures that students are prepared both academically and socially for their futures. They ensure that students’ talents and interests are nurtured by a broad and balanced curriculum through the delivery of the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme in Years 7, 8 and 9. Leigh Academy takes pride in being the first school in the UK to have been awarded The Healthy Minds School kite mark, in recognition of successful involvement in the Healthy Minds research project and demonstrating a commitment to the personal development of students. They strive for excellence in all that they do, and this is reflected in the dedicated staff and a consistent approach to teaching and learning to ensure all students are happy, successful and resilient to the challenges they face. The Academy’s intention is to work in close partnership with parents and carers to ensure that students of all abilities, interests and talents are given every opportunity to be part of an inspiring, challenging and supportive community. Julia Collins, Principal of The Leigh Academy is looking forward to meeting you.

The Homesdale School

The Holmesdale School is a well-established, 11-18, mixed secondary school in the Kent community of Snodland. The building was re-built in 2007 and the school has exceptional facilities in a wonderful setting. Their aim is to provide a high quality ambitious curriculum which ensures students are independent, resilient and suitably equipped for life-long learning. This is achieved through celebrating personal excellence on each individual’s learning journey. Schools are part of a community but they should also be at the heart of a community. Their aim is to make Holmesdale the school of choice for the local community and beyond – a place that parents can rely on to keep young people safe, secure and cared for whilst achieving great results that open doors for them in the future and enriching the community in which they live. Visitors are always welcome so that you can feel for yourselves the vibrant, positive atmosphere that will make Holmesdale an outstanding place to be.

Virtual Open Day

Wednesday 30th September, 6pm Is your child in Year 6? Thinking about secondary school? Tune in on 30th September at 6pm to experience our first ever virtual open day. Look at our fantastic facilities and hear from key staff and students about the opportunities available at The Leigh.

Attend online: www.leighacademy.org.uk/year6virtualopenday The Leigh Academy, Green Street Green Road, Dartford, Kent DA1 1QE

For more information: www.leighacademy.org.uk | 01322 620400 10

Sept - Oct 2020

The words ‘going beyond’ encapsulate what Northfleet Technology College aim to achieve with every student. The school has the highest expectations and strives to ensure the whole school community works together so that every student can achieve their personal best. Northfleet Technology College places respect at its core. Excellent systems of care and support ensure that every student’s talents and abilities are recognised and developed. Dedicated and enthusiastic staff provide the highest levels of learning in addition to ensuring the school is well ordered. Northfleet Technology College benefits from a completely new school building which has been designed to meet the needs of 21st century learners. The building has a functional beauty which not only offers outstanding learning facilities but also ensures students feel safe and secure. They would love you to choose NTC for your son’s secondary education. Should you visit, you will find a happy school which places good relationships and a friendly working atmosphere alongside a determination that nothing but the best will do for their students - the best staff, the best facilities and the best results that they are capable of achieving. If you place your son, and your trust, in NTC, they will go beyond to ensure that the school will not let you down.

Striving for personal excellence

Open Morning Tours are available by contacting the school office on:

Choosing your New School

Northfleet Technology College

office@holmesdale.kent.sch.uk or calling: 0 1 6 3 4 2 4 0 4 1 6

Northfleet Technology College

Colyer Road, Northfleet, Kent, DA11 8BG �Headteacher: Jane Partridge �t: 01474 533802 �f: 01474 536122 �e: office@ntc.kent.sch.uk �www.ntc.kent.sch.uk

Year 6 Open Evening 2020 Provisional Date: Thursday 1 October 2020

Please visit the School’s website for further information Our beautiful school offers outstanding facilities & opportunities for all, in a caring, nurturing & ordered environment

NTC offers...

• • • • • • •

High expectations for every student A dedicated team of teaching and support staff Hi-tech ‘state of the art’ Engineering Vocational Centre Superb specialist facilities for Art, Music, Media and Science A successful Sixth Form, enabling progression to university Outstanding sports facilities & opportunities with our Sports Academy Visits abroad – New York, France and skiing in Austria!

Sept - Oct 2020

Choosing your New School

Leigh Academy Rainham

Leigh Academy Rainham is a brand new school in Rainham, Kent. It opens in September 2021 but now is the time to get your application in. Leigh Academy Rainham is part of the prestigious Leigh Academies Trust. Primary Times spoke to Alex Millward, the new Principal. She told us, “Leigh Academy Rainham will play an instrumental role in shaping the future lives of our young people and transforming the local community. The wellbeing and success of each individual child will be at the heart of everything we do and it is our ambition that students that attend Leigh Academy Rainham will develop an appreciation of the limitless possibilities ahead of them. Our strapline of ‘Dream, Believe and Achieve’ reflects our strong belief that there is no ceiling to what a student can achieve, regardless of their ability and personal circumstances. It is our intention, at Leigh Academies Trust, to create and shape a brand new inclusive and inspirational learning community, with a traditional approach to discipline and innovative curriculum, underpinned by the principles of the IB programme. The learning community will embrace the highly successful ‘Small Schools’ model. The academy will nurture strong partnerships with parents and carers, with our college structure ensuring that the educational experience of every student is highly personalised through excellent communication between the family and academy.

In this academy, the students will flourish, becoming inquiring, compassionate and culturally aware young adults. We will embed the essential skills, knowledge and attributes needed to be highly successful in achieving their own personal goals, as caring members of our community and as leaders in tomorrow’s world. We will begin accepting applications for September 2021 in September 2020.”

Maplesden Noakes School – the Best of Everything

If you are looking for a welcoming, outstanding school for your child, look no further than Maplesden Noakes School. It is a highly successful 11-18 mixed secondary school in Maidstone that is recognised for having high academic standards for all its students and for providing an inclusive, caring and supportive environment. The Grammar Stream is a genuine alternative to the grammar school system. It gives students all the benefits of being in a grammar school plus the advantage of a school that has a reputation built on outstanding care and academic excellence. The school’s results are among the best high school results in the area. The curriculum is diverse and offers all students, whether academic, creative, sporting or artistic, the ability to excel in their learning. Transition from primary school to Maplesden Noakes is seamless, and experienced staff ensure that students very quickly feel at home in the school. Their careers guidance is recognised by Ofsted as outstanding and all of the students leave school having secured a place in further education or employment. Why not have the best of

Accepting Applications from September 2020 Find out more at leighacademyrainham.org.uk 12

Sept - Oct 2020

St Augustine Academy

St Augustine Academy is looking forward to welcoming parents in September. All parents know what a big milestone going to secondary school is for their child. This year it’s even more daunting as schools haven’t been able to provide tours for parents wanting to find the ideal school for their child. However, St Augustine Academy in Maidstone has risen to the challenge and is providing an exciting and informative ‘virtual tour’ on the website www.saa.woodard. co.uk. Just click the link on the main page to view it. The Academy website is a fantastic source of information for parents and pupils and provides information on all the main features of a busy and successful school. These include the curriculum and individual subjects, links to the two Ofsted ‘Good’ reports, the superb library, extra-curricular activities including the Duke of Edinburgh awards scheme and also galleries of photos showing artwork and moments from recent performing arts productions. Open events are planned for Friday 25 September (9am- 4pm) and Saturday 26 (9am-3pm) but places at these events are by appointment only and must be booked in advance on 01622 752 490.

In uncertain times, you can still rely on us to deliver the highest standards Open Evening Thursday 8th October 5-8pm Open Mornings 12th - 14th October at 9am

Choosing your New School

everything – a co-educational setting, outstanding teaching, challenging curriculum, excellent facilities and grammar stream education? In uncertain times, you can still rely on Maplesden to deliver the highest standards. Maplesden Noakes School is the informed choice for your child. For more information, please visit www.maplesden.kent.sch.uk.

‘everyone can achieve’ www.saa.woodard.co.uk

We build the confidence to succeed

St Augustine Academy, Oakwood Park, Maidstone, ME16 8AE

Come and join us for our SEPTEMBER OPEN EVENTS Friday 25th: 9am - 4pm Saturday 26th: 9am - 3pm Places at these events are by appointment only and must be booked in advance. Please ring the Academy on 01622 752490

Sept - Oct 2020

Choosing your New School

The Ebbsfleet Academy

The Ebbsfleet Academy has five academy values that underpin everything they do – respect, resilience, integrity, independence and confidence. They are a dynamic and successful 11-18 academy serving the local community. Ebbsfleet Academy has students of all abilities and from a wide variety of backgrounds, all of whom contribute to the richness of the school. They are extremely proud of their record to date, of their constantly improving results and of the school’s ‘Good’ Ofsted outcome. Ebbsfleet Academy has a clear commitment to the highest of expectations and achievement for all, with an excellent team of committed staff and outstanding facilities. The academy has the highest of academic (and other) standards at its core and their priorities are outstanding teaching, strong accountability, strict rules, excellent behaviour, all children being stretched and challenged, and an academy where all children are happy, safe and enjoy coming. Ebbsfleet’s ambition is to ensure that all of their students achieve their potential, develop as courteous, confident and capable young people and leave with an education that has fully equipped them to go on to university or the career of their choice. A previous student of the school told Primary Times, “My experience at the Academy has been very valuable. The learning environment was great, I met so many wonderful students and the teachers helped me reach my potential.” If you are looking for a school place for your child, do go along to one of the open events. Booking is essential via the website www. theebbsfleetacademy.kent.sch.uk.

Mayfield Grammar School, Gravesend

Mayfield Grammar School in Gravesend is a highly successful grammar school taking students from Gravesend and the surrounding areas. In June 2013 Ofsted judged the school to be outstanding in all four categories leading to an ‘Outstanding’ judgement in overall effectiveness. The school offers an academic curriculum where students achieve great success at GCSE and AS and A Level. The Sixth Form contains over 240 students, including boys, studying AS and A Levels from over 25 subjects. The school also offers an extensive range of extra-curricular activities and visits including trips to Paris, New York, Germany, Italy, West Coast America and Canada. There are also sporting fixtures and trips, a comprehensive Duke of Edinburgh programme and an outdoor activity programme for Years 7 and 8. Highly committed teachers and support staff work in partnership with governors and parents leading to a school “that promotes the learning and progress of every student within a caring and cohesive community” (Ofsted June 2013). They support traditional values and ensure their students develop life skills and personal qualities as well as academic qualifications. For more information, email enquiries@mgsg.kent.sch.uk.

Sept - Oct 2020

The Leigh UTC is designed to give all of their students the best chances of a successful and fulfilling future. Their mission is to develop curious, academically-skilled young people who aspire to be principled, compassionate learners, through a broad and balanced curriculum that focuses on a personalised and skills-based learning programme at GCSE and Post 16 pathways which include A Level, T Level and IB. The UTC will provide all of its students with the experiences, skills and values needed to properly prepare them for success at each stage of their future, to secure careers within the globally competitive 21st century. They have created, developed and fostered close working relationships with local, national and international businesses and industry specialists. Committed STEM practitioners work alongside the UTC to develop industry-relevant projects and problem-solving activities for students that resonate in the real world. All of this work is underpinned by the very successful UTC code of “Think, Act, Perform” which inspires and motivates both staff and students towards excellence. The Key Stage 3 Inspiration Academy offers young people a safe and secure transition from primary to secondary education. Leigh UTC understand that choosing a secondary school is a very important decision, and the breadth of choice is very wide. Why not visit the website where you will find details of all the virtual open events. The team at Leigh UTC are looking forward to answering any questions you may have. The virtual event is on Saturday 26 September at 9.30am.Visit www. theleighutc.org.uk to register.

a school for 11-19 year olds

Mayfield Grammar School, Gravesend is a highly successful selective school admitting girls from Gravesend and the surrounding areas. In June 2013 Ofsted declared us to be an outstanding school “that promoted the learning and progress of every student within a caring and cohesive community”. We would like to invite prospective students for September 2021 entry at age eleven, with their parents, to see the school during a normal working day at our

OPEN MORNINGS Tuesday 20th October 2020 Wednesday 21st October 2020 Thursday 22nd October 2020 (9.00 a.m. to 11.00 a.m) to include 1 hour guided tour (last tour departs 10.00 a.m.)

OPEN EVENING Thursday 22nd October 2020 (6.00 p.m. to 8.30 p.m.) guided tours available

Choosing your New School

The Leigh UTC

Due to Covid 19 these dates and arrangements may be subject to change. Please check our website nearer the time for further updates.

www.mgsg.kent.sch.uk

inspiration

academy @ THE LEIGH UTC

Are you looking for a secondary school for your Year 6 child? Join the only University Technical College in Kent. Attend our event to meet our staff and see our outstanding facilities.

Virtual Open Event, Saturday 26th September Running throughout the morning, featuring a talk by Steve Leahey - Principal and David Freeman - Head of College

Wednesday 7th October, 4.30pm - 5.30pm Talk by Head of College and Q&A session

To book for these events: Visit www.theleighutc.org.uk

YOU CAN

BE @ THE LEIGH UTC DARTFORD

‘It has been a tremendous and phenomenal learning journey for my child at The Leigh UTC. Thank you ever so much for your support. She is going to miss the tranquil and friendly learning environment, and of course the staff who have helped shape her learner’s journey.‘ Parent

Brunel Way, The Bridge, Dartford, Kent DA1 5TF 01322 626600 | faq@theleighutc.org.uk Sept - Oct 2020

Choosing your New School

Beth Tweddle’s Curriculum Programme

The Olympian-led Beth Tweddle Curriculum Programme is available to schools across the UK from September. The new 10-week online programme focuses on physical literacy, as well as Beth Tweddle values such as friendship, respect and determination and is aligned to Key Stages 1 and 2, with outcomes across Science, PHSE and Physical Education. The complete programme can be used for the whole school and consists of weekly videos and resources provided exclusively by Olympic medallist and world champion gymnast, Beth Tweddle MBE. Since launching in the North West in 2015, the Beth Tweddle Curriculum has engaged over 30,000 children and more than 300 schools. Beth Tweddle told Primary Times, “I’m passionate about ensuring all children are given the opportunity to have fun and stay active in school, so this next step to offer our programme nationally is something myself and the team are so proud of. We’ve had nothing but great feedback so far from pupils and teachers and we feel now is the right time for the programme to be made available to all primary schools. “Now, more than ever, it’s crucial for children to be fit and active. We designed the programme to be fun and engaging with the ability to deliver both in the classroom or living room, if pupils are learning from home.” Schools that sign up will receive a full 10-week programme, with each week focusing on a new value, as well as videos, a knowledge and understanding piece (KS1 and KS2), a physical literacy lesson, a 30-second participation challenge and a certificate for each week. The programme works within school term times so there are three start points in a year. However, a school can theoretically start at any point during the term and deliver it continuously for 10 sessions. The physical literacy programme aligns with social distancing as it can be delivered within teachers’ own parameters and can support teachers who do not usually deliver Physical Education. To find out more or sign up to the programme, go to bethtweddlegymnastics.co.uk/national-curriculum or email samantha. scotland@btgymnastics.co.uk.

Walk, Cycle or Scooter to School

As children and young people head back to school, families are being encouraged to travel by foot, bike or scooter. With roads a lot busier now, parents and carers are being asked to play their part in cutting congestion, reducing carbon emissions and boosting children’s health. Recently released guidance from the Department for Education shows that at least 50% of journeys to school of two miles or less need to be walked and cycled in order to allow space for those on socially distanced public transport who need to travel further. The health benefits from changing your school run routine can be significant. Currently only around half of children aged five to 16 are meeting the UK Chief Medical Officer’s recommendations of at least 60 minutes moderate-vigorous activity per day across the week. Sustrans has teamed up with the Bikeability Trust to invite schools across the UK to take part in this year’s Bike to School Week. The event runs from 28 September to 2 October and celebrates the amazing benefits that an active school run can bring. Cycle training, such as Bikeability, can help pupils cycle safely and confidently on the road. Photo credit: Chris Foster 16

Sept - Oct 2020

What’s New for the High Weald Academy?

Students and the community of Cranbrook saw the exciting opening of their new state-of-the-art secondary school during the last academic year. The purpose built, 21st century school building is one of the best and most modern learning environments in the area, providing students with an inspirational setting to achieve and excel. All the 69 classrooms and offices maximise natural light and have climate control to ensure a comfortable place in which to concentrate and focus. The brand new science laboratories, art rooms, ICT suites and drama studio provide specialist spaces for students to experience new things. The school’s focus to motivate students has supported the development of a whole new curriculum which was launched during 2019. This includes a particular focus on a new maths curriculum, which has been developed to allow and support every student within The High Weald Academy to succeed and achieve their best. Through adopting and applying the Maths Mastery approach, the aim is to extend students’ ability to explore maths. Students will be encouraged to utilise the five pillars of the mastery approach to hone their knowledge and understanding of how to apply their learning and develop their confidence in such a vital subject discipline. As we return to lessons in September the curriculum experience for students is being carefully re-modelled again in order to ensure adequate opportunity to catch up with progress that time away from school may have affected, during the pandemic. With a strong emphasis on developing reading and vocabulary, students will also have additional time to accelerate their numeracy and literacy skills.

Clarssroom

Saturday School CONFIDENCE EXCELLENCE EMPOWER MASTERY

SUCCESS LEARN EXCEL READ Highly sought after and recommended professional tutoring, experienced in developing and preparing children to learn, lead and succeed all around in • Reading, English, Maths, Verbal & Non-verbal Reasoning • Enrolling children ages 3 ½ – 13 • Saturday, Online and Summer Schools • 4+, 5+, 7+ and 11+ exam success • KS1 & KS2 SATs preparation

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Crayford Academy Iron Mill Lane, Crayford, Dartford DA1 4RS

Book a trial and free assessment • 9:30am and 11:30am Saturday: 19th September, 26th September, 3rd October and 10th October Call or visit our website now to secure a place for your child

020 3991 6110 www.clarssroom.co.uk

Why Maidstone Grammar School for Girls?

Maidstone Grammar School for Girls (MGGS) has a strong community spirit which is underpinned by the fact that the happiness of all their students is vital in enabling them to succeed. The school’s house system brings students of all ages together in many whole school activities and creates friendships which endure and last well beyond their years at school. The school’s proven track record, together with their Advanced Thinking School status, underpins their academic curriculum, providing students with a thorough grounding for their careers which will take them far into the 21st century. MGGS is well known for its broad curriculum (all students study two languages at KS3) and academic excellence, it is also well known for the many extra-curricular activities provided for students. Pupils regularly participate in school sports clubs and activities such as Astronomy and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. The school also has a number of music clubs. MGGS uses Google’s GSuite for Education and is acknowledged by Google UK to be one of the most advanced schools for its integrated use to promote student learning. They have been recognised by the Department for Education for their high standards in Computing. For more information and to keep up-to-date with their events this autumn for Year 6 students, visit www.mggs.org. Booking will be required for open day events.

Choosing your New School

High Weald Academy’s ability to deliver virtual ‘live’ lessons means that the school can protect students from the impact of any future disruption to their schooling. For more information, visit www.highwealdacademy.kent.sch.uk.

Discover life at The High Weald Academy, Cranbrook, Kent • Inspiring • Engaging • Life Changing If you’re serious about your future success visit our website for details of our upcoming open events.

www.highwealdacademy.kent.sch.uk Angley Road, Cranbrook, Kent, TN17 2PJ 01580 712754

Learning for a bright future

Win a Botley® 2.0 Activity Set worth £85! We’ve partnered with Learning Resources®, a brilliant company specialising in educational toys and games, to give away three new Botley 2.0 The Coding Robot Activity Sets. Meet Botley 2.0, a screenfree coding robot designed to teach children as young as five the FUN-damentals of coding. Programme a sequence of up to 150 steps in six directions, put on a light show, set new challenges, unlock cool features and even make noises like a police car, ghost and dinosaur! Learning Resources helps children to develop a love for learning. Visit their website for more coding toys including fun screen-free coding games and activities to suit all ages. www.learningresources.co.uk. For your chance to win one of these great prizes, just tell us how many steps you can programme into the Botley 2.0. Send your answer to us along with your name, age, address, school and phone number to Botley Competition, Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London SE12 8LG or email your answer together with your details to competitions@primarytimes.biz with ‘Botley’ as the subject by Friday 2 October. Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

Maidstone Grammar School for Girls Find out about the outstanding education MGGS provides.

Keep up-to-date with our events this Autumn for Year 6 students at our website www.mggs.org Booking will be required

www.mggs.org A forward-thinking community with a tradition of excellence Sept - Oct 2020

FIND YOUR LOCAL SCHOOL OPEN DAY INFORMATION

Dartford Name

Address

Dartford Grammar School Dartford Grammar School For Girls Dartford Science and Tech Coll Ebbsfleet Academy, The Leigh Academy, The Longfield Academy

West Hill, Dartford, DA1 2HW Shepherds Lane, Dartford, DA1 2NT Heath Lane, Dartford, DA1 2LY Southfleet Rd, Swanscombe, DA10 OBZ Green Street Green Rd, Dartford, DA1 1QE Main Road, Longfield, DA3 7PH

Gravesend Grammar School Mayfield Grammar School Meopham School Northfleet School for Girls Northfleet Technology College Saint George’s C of E School St John’s Catholic Comprehensive Thamesview School

Church Walk, Gravesend, DA12 2PR (SatNav DA12 2JL) Pelham Road, Gravesend, DA11 0JE Wrotham Road, Meopham, DA13 0AH Hall Road, Northfleet, DA11 8AQ Colyer Road, Northfleet, DA11 8BG Meadow Road, Gravesend, DA11 7LS Rochester Road, Gravesend DA12 2JW Thong Lane, Gravesend, DA12 4LF

Cornwallis Academy Invicta Grammar School Lenham School, The Maidstone Grammar School Maidstone Grammar School for Girls Maplesden Noakes School, The New Line Learning Academy Oakwood Park Grammar School St Augustine Academy St Simon Stock Catholic School Valley Park School

Hubbards Lane, Maidstone, ME17 4HX Huntsman Lane, Maidstone, ME14 5DS Ham Lane, Lenham, ME17 2LL Barton Road, Maidstone, ME15 7BT Buckland Road, Maidstone, ME16 0SF Buckland Road, Maidstone, ME16 0TJ Boughton Lane, Loose, ME15 9QL Oakwood Park, Maidstone, ME16 8AH Oakwood Road, Maidstone, ME16 8AE Oakwood Park, Maidstone, ME16 0JP Huntsman Lane, Maidstone, ME14 5DT

Brompton Academy Chatham Grammar School For Girls Fort Pitt Grammar School Gad’s Hill School Greenacre Academy Holcombe Grammar School Howard School, The Hundred of Hoo Academy, The Rainham Mark Grammar School Rainham School For Girls Robert Napier School, The Rochester Grammar School Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical Sch St John Fisher Catholic Comprehensive Strood Academy Thomas Aveling School, The Victory Academy, The Walderslade Girls’ School

Marlborough Rd, Gillingham, ME7 5HT Rainham Road, Chatham, ME5 7EH Fort Pitt Hill, Chatham, ME4 6TJ Gravesend Road, Rochester, ME3 7PA Walderslade Road, Walderslade, ME5 0LP Letchworth Avenue, Chatham, ME4 6JB Derwent Way, Rainham, ME8 0BX Main Rd, Hoo St Werburgh, ME3 9HH Pump Lane, Rainham, ME8 7AJ Derwent Way, Rainham, ME8 0BX Third Avenue, Gillingham, ME7 2LX Maidstone Road, Rochester, ME1 3BY Maidstone Road, Rochester, ME1 3EL Ordnance Street, Chatham, ME4 6SG Carnation Road, Strood, ME2 2SX Arethusa Rd, Rochester, ME1 2UW Magpie Hall Rd, Chatham, ME4 5JB Bradfields Ave, Walderslade, ME5 0LE

Knole Academy Orchards Academy Trinity School

Bradbourne Vale Road, Sevenoaks, TN13 3LE St Mary’s Road, Swanley, BR8 7TE Seal Hollow Road, Sevenoaks, TN13 3SL

Aylesford School Hadlow Rural Community School Hayesbrook School, The Hillview School for Girls Holmesdale School, The Hugh Christie Technology College Malling School, The Tonbridge Grammar School Weald of Kent Grammar Sch Wrotham School

Teapot Lane, Aylesford, ME20 7JU Tonbridge Road, Hadlow, TN11 0AU Brook Street, Tonbridge, TN9 2PH Brionne Gdns, Tonbridge, TN9 2HE (SatNav TN9 2DQ) Malling Road, Snodland, ME6 5HS White Cottage Rd, Tonbridge, TN10 4PU Beech Road, East Malling, ME19 6DH Deakin Leas, Tonbridge, TN9 2JR Tudeley Lane, Tonbridge, TN9 2JP Borough Green Road, Wrotham, TN15 7RD

Bennett Memorial Diocesan Sch High Weald Academy, The Mascalls Academy Skinners’ Kent Academy, The Skinners’ School, The St Gregory’s Catholic School Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar Sch Tunbridge Wells Grammar Sch for Boys

Culverden Down, Tunbridge Wells, TN4 9SH Angley Road, Cranbrook, TN17 2PJ Maidstone Road, Paddock Wood, TN12 6LT Sandown Park, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 4PY St John’s Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN4 9PG Reynolds Lane, Tunbridge Wells, TN4 9XL Southfield Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN4 9UJ St John’s Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN4 9XB

Gravesham Name

Maidstone Name

Medway Name

Sevenoaks (inc Swanley) Name

Tonbridge & Malling Name

Tunbridge Wells Name

Sept - Oct 2020

Address

Tel

01322 223 039 01322 223 123 01322 224 309 01322 623 100 01322 620 400 01474 700 700

Tel

01474 331 893 01474 352 896 01474 814 646 01474 831 020 01474 533 802 01474 533 082 01474 534 718 01474 566 552

Tel

01622 743 152 01622 755 856 01622 858267 01622 752 101 01622 752 103 01622 759 036 01622 743 286 01622 726 683 01622 752 490 01622 754 551 01622 679 421

Tel

01634 852 341 01634 851 262 01634 842 359 01474 822366 01634 861 593 01634 830 083 01634 388 765 01634 251 443 01634 364 151 01634 362 746 01634 851 157 01634 843 049 01634 844 008 01634 543 123 01634 717 121 01634 844 809 03333 602 140 01634 861 596

Tel

01732 454 608 01322 665 231 01732 469 111

Tel

01622 717 341 01732 853 241 01732 500 600 01732 352 793 01634 240 416 01732 353 544 01732 840 995 01732 365 125 01732 373 500 03000 658 320

Tel

01892 521 595 01580 712 754 01892 835 366 01892 534 377 01892 520 732 01892 527 444 01892 520 902 01892 529551

Website

www.dartfordgrammarschool.org.uk www.dartfordgrammargirls.kent.sch.uk www.dstc.kent.sch.uk www.theebbsfleetacademy.kent.sch.uk www.leighacademy.org.uk www.longfieldacademy.org

Website

www.gravesendgrammar.com www.mgsg.kent.sch.uk www.meopham.kent.sch.uk www.nsfg.org.uk www.ntc.kent.sch.uk www.saintgeorgescofe.kent.sch.uk www.stjohnscs.com www.thamesview.kent.sch.uk

Website

www.cornwallisacademy.com www.invicta.viat.org.uk www.thelenham.viat.org.uk www.mgs.kent.sch.uk www.mggs.org www.maplesden.kent.sch.uk www.newlinelearning.com www.opgs.org www.saa.woodard.co.uk www.ssscs.co.uk www.valleypark.viat.org.uk

Website

www.bromptonacademy.org.uk www.chathamgirlsgrammar.medway.sch.uk www.fortpitt.medway.sch.uk www.gadshill.org www.sflt.org.uk/greenacre www.holcombegrammar.org.uk www.thehowardschool.co.uk www.hundredofhooacademy.org.uk www.rainhammark.com www.rainhamgirls-tkat.org www.robertnapier.org.uk www.rochestergrammar.org.uk www.sjwms.org.uk www.stjohnfisher.school www.stroodacademy.org.uk www.thomasaveling.co.uk www.thevictoryacademy.org.uk www.sflt.org.uk/waldersladegirls

Website

www.knoleacademy.org www.orchards-tkat.org www.trinitysevenoaks.org.uk

Website

www.aylesford.kent.sch.uk www.hrcschool.org www.hayesbrook.kent.sch.uk www.hillview.kent.sch.uk www.holmesdale.kent.sch.uk www.hughchristie.kent.sch.uk www.themallingschool.kent.sch.uk www.tgs.kent.sch.uk www.wealdofkent.kent.sch.uk www.wrotham.kent.sch.uk

Website

www.bennettmemorial.co.uk www.highwealdacademy.kent.sch.uk www.mascalls.academy.org.uk www.skinnerskentacademy.org.uk www.skinners-school.co.uk www.sgschool.org.uk www.twggs.kent.sch.uk www.twgsb.org.uk

t ’ a s h N ew W Alcatel 3T 8 tablet

The Alcatel 3T 8 tablet, with built-in Kids Mode, is priced at only £120, making it the affordable tablet that’s perfect for busy families. It also has Google Assistant to organise your day and Kids Mode to keep the little ones safe.You can choose the apps you want your children to have access to so they won’t see anything they shouldn’t, and set time limits to make sure they’re not spending too long on the tablet. It’s one of the lightest eight-inch tablets you can get, so it’s great for when you’re on the move. Alcatel also offers the 3T8 Family Tech Bundle with O2 which includes fun, safe content with Azoomee, online safety advice and an exclusive case/screen protector to protect the tablet from accidents and tantrums, all for only £145.

Animal Mah-Jong

Animal Mah-Jong takes the classic Chinese tile game and updates it for a contemporary younger audience. Rather than the traditional line drawings of bamboo and Chinese characters, it features Ryuto Miyake’s stunning animal illustrations – each suit features Asian land, sea and air animals. Ryuoto Miyake is an illustrator and graphic designer based in Tokyo, with a particular interest in birds. Get ready to pong and chow like you never have before! Animal Mah-Jong is available from 12 October at www.laurenceking.com at a price of £24.99.

Create the Ultimate BOOM!

Boom City Racers is a vibrant and collectible range of race cars that tear out of ﬁrework-themed packaging with the pull of a rip cord. Create the ultimate BOOM and watch as the cars explode apart on impact with a wall, a solid object or another Boom City Racers car! The pieces can then be reassembled for repeat play and nonstop racing (and crashing) fun. The range also features playsets that allow players to launch vehicles and collide in mid-air so players can #RipRaceExplode their Boom City Racers and compete for the ultimate BOOM! There are 24 cars to collect and race across the range. Suitable for kids aged 4+. The Boom City Racers Starter Pack creates the ultimate race experience with a light and sound launcher and stunt set included. It retails for £14.99.

Silly Greens

Silly Greens has created the ﬁrst ready-growing letterbox herb box. Silly Greens is different from online plant shops because they don’t grow plants, they sow them. Most of the growing is done in people’s kitchens.The seedlings arrive small and ready to grow in a box, making micro herbs fresh and accessible. Since Silly Greens’ foundation less than two years ago, the company has sown over 5000 micro herb boxes which have been grown in kitchens up and down the country.Their micro herbs boxes are part of a plan to get people growing food and connecting with what is on their plate. Silly Greens are available for £4 per box. For more information, visit www. sillygreens.com.

Marvin’s Treasured Magic Tricks

This is a truly wonderful magic set from Marvin’s Magic. Presented in a durable wooden box for easy storage for your performances, this is the ideal introductory set to the wonderful world of magic for children aged 6 to adult. Great for building conﬁdence and essential developmental skills, it includes the ‘incredible escaping coloured block’, the ‘vanishing rabbit illusion’, the ‘amazing rising card’ and much more. This wooden box magic set will last a lifetime and will encourage the whole family to get involved. The tricks take minutes to master and will provide hours of entertainment. Suitable for ages 3+, it’s an ideal gift for those with a love of magic. Marvin’s Treasured Magic Tricks costs £28 from Amazon and other retailers.

YR Masks

Design your own face-covering online for all the family! For the bargain price of £8 (including postage), you can customise your very own face mask using various templates, images, colours and settings for a unique result.You can play around with endless combinations.YR offers a clever way to entice stubborn kids and teens into wearing a mask - especially if it’s one they’ve designed for themselves. Not only is it cost-friendly and fun to design but it is both comfortable and functional. It’s washable and available in two sizes, suitable for both adults and children from 5 years up.YR Masks are made using double layer fabric, with the inner layer being 100% breathable cotton.The outer layer is ‘performance fabric with superior wicking’ (polyester). Elasticated straps ensure a snug ﬁt around the face. Also most importantly all YR masks meet WHO guidelines. Order yours from yrmasks.com.

I Heart Koalas

Fall in love with colouring koalas in this new addition to the I Heart Colouring series. Packed full of cuddly koalas, this book also features cute kangaroos, wonderful wombats and plenty of luscious plants and ﬂowers that children and adults alike can bring to life with colour. It’s the perfect gift for koala lovers everywhere. A percentage of the proceeds from this book will go to charities currently helping koalas and other wildlife affected by the recent bushﬁres. I Heart Koalas costs £5.99 in paperback and is published by Buster Books.

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for September & October

October crunch of leaves underfoot and spectacular autumn tints. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.hevercastle.co.uk

Sat 3 Oct Luna Cinema, Rochester Castle, ME1 1SW

Enjoy a showing of Grease in the stunning setting of Rochester Castle Grounds. Doors open at 6pm with the film starting at 7.30pm. Booking in advance required as each group will be assigned a pitch with chairs pre-laid out to allow for social distancing. For more details visit www. thelunacinema.com

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have up to date details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure the information hasn’t changed.

Cranbrook Apple Carnival, Stone Street, TN17 3EB A popular, fun and quirky event celebrating the local fruit. This year’s theme is Smugglers and Mods! Includes live music, dancing, street food, fancy dress competition, market and craft fair. Free fun for all the family! For more information visit www. visittunbridgewells.com

Sun 4 Oct Luna Cinema, Rochester Castle, ME1 1SW

Enjoy a showing of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire in the stunning setting of Rochester Castle Grounds. Doors open at 6pm with the film starting at 7.30pm. Booking in advance required as each group will be assigned a pitch with chairs pre-laid out to allow for social distancing. For more details visit www. thelunacinema.com

Sat 10 – Sun 11 Oct PYO Pumpkin, Pumpkin Moon, Maidstone (ME14 3BE), Rainham (ME7 2YA) & Bapchild (ME9 9AB) (Also 17-18 Oct) 10am-4pm. At Pumpkin Moon they specialise in fun for little (and not so little) people. With 3 sites and over 80 varieties of pumpkin, squash and gourd to choose from, plus

the popular maize maze, you can make a real day of it. For more information visit www. pumpkinmoon.uk.

Sat 17 – Sun 18 Oct Rock the Mote, Mote Park, Maidstone, ME15 7RN 12noon-10pm. This popular festival returns (postponed from August), with plenty of Tribute Acts ready, food and drink and other entertainment. For more information and to book visit www.rockthemote.com

“

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

”

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

Dr Maggie’s Grand Tour of the Solar System Have you ever wanted to know more about the solar system we live in? Are you a budding astronaut trying to pick which planet to go to first? Dr Maggie’s Grand Tour of the Solar System is the perfect guide to the universe we live in. Primary Times was lucky enough to speak to Dr Maggie and pick her brains about space.

What can readers expect from your book? Did you ever want to be an astronaut? Dr Maggie’s Grand Tour of the Solar System allows readers to take an epic journey that no human or space probe has ever made. It’s a guided tour through the solar system, exploring all the wonderful highlights out there, such as the largest mountain in the solar system, Olympus Mons on Mars, which is nearly two and a half times the height of Mount Everest. There are so many amazing things to see in outer space and with this book you can visit them all.

What made you first interested in space? It was the Moon landing that had the biggest impact on me. I was born during a fantastically exciting time for space exploration and heard about it a lot as I was growing up.

What’s your favourite planet? They’d all be amazing to visit, but the one I would like to go to the most is Mars. Mars is smaller than Earth but we know that it used to have liquid water running over its surface. I would love to go to investigate why the planet changed so much and find out what happened to the water. 20

Sept - Oct 2020

Yes! I have wanted to go into space ever since I was a small child and I would still love to today.

Do you think aliens exist? If you look out into the night sky, you can see thousands of stars. Each one of those stars is a sun like ours, and many of them sit at the heart of a solar system just like ours. We call the planets that orbit around these distant stars ‘exoplanets’ and we are discovering more and more all the time. Our galaxy, known as the Milky Way, contains around 300 billion stars, that means there are hundreds of billions of planets. We also think that there are around 100 billion galaxies in the universe. That is a mind boggling number of planets. With all these planets out there in the universe, it seems unlikely that life would have only occurred here on Earth. Dr Maggie’s Grand Tour of the Solar System by Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock and illustrated by Chelen Ecija is out now, in hardback, priced £12.99 (Buster Books). Photo credit: Lovelight Photography Follow us on Instagram - @primarytimesse

Your family diary for September & October

October Sat 17 Oct–Sun 1 Nov Pumpkin Festival, Riverhill Himalayan Gardens, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RR

(Gardens closed on Mondays and Tuesdays). 11am-4pm. Hunt for pumpkins around the gardens to win some spooky treats, then visit the carving grotto (bring your own pumpkin or buy one there) and create a wonderful carving to take home. For more information visit www.riverhillgardens.co.uk

Fri 23 – Sat 31 Oct PYO Pumpkin, Pumpkin Moon, Maidstone (ME14 3BE), Rainham (ME7 2YA) & Bapchild (ME9 9AB)

10am-4pm. At Pumpkin Moon they specialise in fun for little (and not so little) people. With 3 sites and over 80 varieties of pumpkin, squash and gourd to choose from, plus the popular maize maze, you can make a real day of it. For more information visit www.pumpkinmoon.uk.

Sat 24 Oct–Sun 1 Nov Halloween Half Term Fun, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Don your best creepy costume for a pumpkin trail in the grounds (try and spot the unusual varieties) or keep your eye out for pumpkin masterpieces on display from Hever Castle staff.Visitors have a chance to vote for their favourite with the winner of the most popular pumpkin announced at the end of Halloween at Hever. For more information visit www.hevercastle.co.uk

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Ghost Hunt in the Gatehouse, Tonbridge Castle, TN9 1BG

carving, ghoulish face painting, creepy storytelling, magic shows and more. For more information visit www.thehopfarm.co.uk

Mon 26 Oct–Sun 1 Nov Halloween Half Term, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL

What’s On

More What’s On

There will be lots of ghoulish games and frightening fun to be had at Leeds Castle. For more information and to book visit www.leeds-castle.com

Search for ghosts as you make your way through a vivid recreation of Tues 27 Oct the sights, sounds and excitement Pumpkin Half Term of a 13th century castle. Find the hidden ghosts inside to claim a Fun, Bore Place, prize and a well-earned certificate. Chiddingstone, TN8 7AR Charges apply, booking essential. This October, Mary’s Meals 10am-1pm. Children will choose For more information and to book is inviting you their to reach and harvest own pumpkin visit www.tonbridgecastle.org outthen to children carve it living into a in spooky jack o’ poverty byThen supporting the delicious Half Term Fun at the lantern. they’ll bake #PorridgeSmiles campaign cheese scones to enjoy with Farm, Hop Farm, To pumpkin request your Porridge soupfree for lunch. Charges Smiles pack, please Wellies visit apply,party booking essential. Tonbridge, TN12 6PY www.worldporridgeday.com essential! For more information 10am-4pm. Treat the kids to a visit www.boreplace.org spook-tastic feast of fun for the half term holidays! Dress up in your For lots more What’s On best Halloween fancy dress and join in the fun. There’ll be pumpkin ideas see page 22

Due to Covid 19 restrictions please do check with the venue that For lots more What’s On the listing is up to date before planning your visit. ideas see page 22...

Mary’s Meals

This October, Mary’s Meals is inviting you to reach out to children living in poverty by supporting the #PorridgeSmiles campaign To request your free Porridge Smiles party pack, please visit www.worldporridgeday.com

M o t t M c e b W d o c s U in S c a h li M in a f in t a T in y t P Y c

Mary’s Meals is asking you to bring hope to a hungry child on World Porridge Day, Saturday 10 October. Children all over the world are preparing for the new term, including more than 1.2 million learners who receive a daily meal from Mary’s Meals. The charity works with some of the world’s poorest communities to set up school feeding programmes that encourage children to attend class, learn, and work towards a better future. World Porridge Day celebrates the huge difference that a daily mug of porridge from Mary’s Meals makes in the lives of chronically hungry children. This October, schools across the UK will be joining in with the Porridge Smiles fundraising campaign to send a real message of This October, Mary’s Meals hope to children is inviting you to reach living in poverty. out to children living in poverty by supporting the Mary’s Meals is #PorridgeSmiles campaign inviting you to host To request your free Porridge a porridge party Smiles party pack, please visit fundraiser at school, any time in October. It’s a great waywww.worldporridgeday.com to bring staff, pupils and parents together, take a photo of yourself enjoying a bowl of porridge and share it on social media using #PorridgeSmiles. To request your free Porridge Smiles party pack – which includes tips for setting up your party and a poster to publicise your event – visit www.worldporridgeday.com and complete the online form. You’ll also be able to read a selection of Perfect Porridge recipes from celebrities and top chefs too. Your school’s fundraising will make a huge difference to children receiving Mary’s Meals.

Mary’s Meals

Sept - Oct 2020

What’s On

Film & DVD Preview Guide Cats & Dogs 3: Paws Unite! It will truly rain cats and dogs when Warner Bros. Home Entertainment releases Cats & Dogs 3: Paws Unite! It’s been 10 years since the creation of the Great Truce, an elaborate joint-species surveillance system designed and monitored by cats and dogs to keep the peace when conﬂicts arise. But when a tech-savvy villain hacks into wireless networks to use frequencies only heard by cats and dogs, he manipulates them into conﬂict. The worldwide battle between cats and dogs is BACK ON. Now a team of inexperienced and untested agents will have to use their old-school animal instincts to restore order and peace between cats and dogs everywhere. Cats & Dogs 3: Paws Unite! will be available to own on 2 October on Digital and 5 October on DVD.

Over the Moon Fueled with determination and a passion for science, a bright young girl builds a rocket ship to the moon to prove the existence of a legendary Moon Goddess. There she ends up on an unexpected quest, and discovers a whimsical land of fantastical creatures. Directed by animation legend Glen Keane, Over the Moon is an exhilarating musical adventure about moving forward, embracing the unexpected, and the power of imagination. Over The Moon will launch on Netﬂix in Autumn 2020.

The Secret Garden Discover the magic of life by stepping into a magical world of nature and imagination when The Secret Garden comes to cinemas and Sky Cinema from 23 October.The Secret Garden stars Colin Firth, Julie Walters and newcomer Dixie Egerickx. Based on the classic children’s novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett,The Secret Garden tells the story of Mary Lennox, a 10-year-old girl sent to live with her uncle Archibald Craven (Colin Firth) under the watchful eye of Mrs Medlock (Julie Walters) with only the household maid, Martha for company.The ﬁlm is set in 1940s England at Misselthwaite Manor, a remote country estate deep in the Yorkshire moors. Mary begins to uncover many family secrets, particularly after chancing upon her cousin Colin, who has been shut away unwell in a wing of the house.Whilst exploring the grounds of Misselthwaite Manor, Mary discovers a wondrous garden and meets local boy Dickon.The three children adventure deep into the mysteries of the garden – a magical place that will change their lives forever. 22

Sept - Oct 2020

More What’s On Your family diary for September & October Due to Covid 19 restrictions please do check with the venue that the listing is up to date before planning your visit.

October Tues 27–Thurs 29 Oct The Big Draw and Children’s Pilgrimage Activities, Canterbury Cathedral, CT1 2EH Canterbury Cathedral’s half term activities will centre around St Thomas Becket for the Big Draw 2020. Admission Charges apply. For more information visit www. canterbury-cathedral.org

Tues 27 – Fri 30 Oct Half Term Family Fun: Crimean War Dogs, Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham, ME7 1UR Commemorate the Crimean War, which began in October 1853. The Royal Engineers’ mascot, Snob the Dog, was found on the battlefield so learn about the role that dogs played. Create your own non-sew sock dog to use as a companion just like a soldier. Charges apply. For more details visit www.remuseum.co.uk

Wed 28 Oct Apple Fun Morning, Bore Place, Chiddingstone, TN8 7AR 10am-1pm. Bake tasty apple and oat muffins, visit the orchard, vegetable garden and farm. Taste the different apple varieties and enjoy some apple-themed crafts. Charges apply, booking essential. For more information visit www. boreplace.org

Thurs 29 Oct Spooky Hunt/ Halloween Trail, Haysden Country Park, TN11 9BB 6-8pm. Follow the fun clues, walking around the park to find the answers. Afterwards a trick or treat challenge for those who dare!

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Come in fancy dress and bring a torch. Booking essential, charges apply. For more information visit www.tmbc.gov.uk

Den Building and Campfire Fun, Bore Place, Chiddingstone, TN8 7AR

10am-1pm. This action-packed morning is filled with den building and campfire making, and finished off with a toasted marshmallow, hot chocolate and a farm tour. Holidays like the olden days! Charges apply, booking essential. For more information visit www. boreplace.org

Fri 30 Oct Spooky Hunt/ Halloween Trail, Leybourne Lakes Country Park, ME20 6AA

6-8pm. Follow the fun clues, walking around the park to find the answers. Afterwards a trick or treat challenge for those who dare! Come in fancy dress and bring a torch. Booking essential, charges apply. For more information visit www.tmbc.gov.uk

November

Sun 1 Nov London to Brighton Veteran Car Run

The event will commence in London with a rolling start on The Mall, as all the beautiful veteran cars make their way to Madeira Drive in Brighton. A fantastic opportunity to see veteran cars on the road, with some drivers in period dress too! For more information visit www. veterancarrun.com

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

listings@ primarytimes.biz

Family Health Health has never been higher on the agenda for families than it is now for a variety of reasons. We’ve pulled together some useful tips on key areas of concern for families during this time. Coronavirus (COVID-19) The NHS website is the primary resource for the most up-to-date advice and information for the current pandemic and contains frequently updated guides to testing, symptoms and treatment. CBBC Newsround has compiled a special Coronavirus minisite which contains helpful and entertaining videos and is frequently updated www.nhs.uk/conditions/ coronavirus-covid-19 www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/51861089

Child Flu vaccine As with previous years, primary school aged children will be offered their vaccination in school. In some areas, it might be offered in primary care settings. Children who are home educated will also be offered the vaccine. Pre-schoolers aged 2 and up will begiven the vaccination at their GP surgery usually by the practice nurse. www.nhs.uk/conditions/ vaccinations/child-flu-vaccine

Eye Health Free NHS sight tests are available at opticians for children under 16 and for young people under 19 in full-time education. Local opticians will have special arrangements in place in order to make appointments safe in this present time. www.nhs.uk/conditions/ eye-tests-in-children

Foot Health Well fitting shoes, are an essential part of helping to ensure good child foot health and can prevent problems in later life as the bones in a child’s foot do not fully form until they are around 18 years old. Independent shoe shops often offer a child foot measuring service, however, at the moment we note that some parents may have reservations about visiting stores for this purpose. Websites such as the one for Start-Rite shoes have a downloadable paper measuring guide and Clarks currently offer virtual fittings through an online Zoom video call. www.startriteshoes.com/ measure-at-home www.clarks.co.uk/ measureandfit-shoe-size

Mental Health and family relationships We know that this is a challenging time for many families in a variety of different ways. The NSPCC website is full of advice and resources dealing with family mental health issues in everyday life and during the coronavirus pandemic. Take a look at the Action for Children website for links to national helpline and organisations who supply general support to children, as well as adults. Reading Well for Children is a fantastic list of recommended books to promote mental health and wellbeing with books. Check out the websites/social media of your local library to see what arrangements they currently have in place as it is possible to access some texts via online systems/ audiobooks/ebooks/download. www.nspcc.org.uk www.actionforchildren.org.uk/ support-for-parents reading-well.org.uk/books/ books-on-prescription/children

Nutrition The NHS Change 4 Life website has some great resources on eating healthily, understanding nutritional information and cost-effective recipes that are suitable for families and healthy snacking www.nhs.uk/change4life

Exercise Local parks are great places for families to carry out socially-distanced exercises where sports clubs may currently be operational. At home, don’t forget that The Body Coach’s ‘PE With Joe’ sessions are still available on YouTube as a special playlist for all the family and the excellent Change4Life website has a series of 10 minute shakeup exercise games involving famous Disney and Pixar characters. We also recommend the Cosmic Kids Yoga YouTube channel for fun themed yoga through storytelling and popular characters including Trolls, Harry Potter and Frozen. Search YouTube for The Body Coach – then find PE With Joe in the playlists tab www.nhs.uk/10-minute-shake-up/ shake-ups www.youtube.com/user/ CosmicKidsYoga/featured

Katie

lown’s Cookery Corner

Why did the student eat his homework? The teacher told him it was a piece of cake!

Word Search N E K C I H C F N I

E V O P U RM I L K S A U S A T F GMC I R D U D R Y J E S A R R O T V GM PW N L WO B WE P I C

R L G I S K S N A E

Y R E K C O R C U R

S N S D N O M L A T

T C O O K E R I C E

Can you find all these words in the word search? Cooker, raw, bowl, crockery, rice, milk, sausages, chicken, carrots, sugar, syrup, fry, almonds, recipe, ingredient, oven, stir, nut What starts with “t” ends with “t” and is filled with “t”? A teapot!

What does a mixed-up hen lay? Scrambled eggs!

Why did the girl stare at the carton of orange juice? Because it said ‘concentrate!’

Spot 6 Differences A

What did the hungry computer eat? Chips, one byte at a time.

Crossword

Why was t cucum he ber Can you draw a picture or write a poem about mad? anything to do with your favourite food? Because it w Make it as wacky and colourful as you can! a p as in ickle! Send it to us to have a chance of winning a Primary Times

Competition Corner

Tee Shirt AND seeing your prize winning entry published in the next Primary Times! Categories: ages 4-7 and 8-11

Name:

What did the skeleton order for dinner? Spare ribs!

Age: Address:

Postcode: School:

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

competitions@primarytimes.biz Closing date 2 October 2020. Good Luck!

Answers 1 Vase, 2 Mug. 3 Stove, 4 Pot, 5 Freezer, 6 Microwave, 7 Table. 8 Towel, 9 Chair, 10 Jar, 11 Cabinet, 12 Saucepan, 13 Refridgerator, 14 Cutlery, 15 Toaster, 16 Kettle, 17 Bowl, 18 Bottle, 19 Drawers, 20 Faucet, 21 Plates, 22 Dishwasher, 23 Mixer, Keyword: Tasty Dinner

Send your entry together with this completed form to: