NW Kent May Half Term 2018 Primary Times

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IDE U NG O T’S A WH

for families with primary aged children

May Half Term Edition Issue 110 14 May - 1 July 2018

in North & West Kent

May Half Term Activities May Half Term Activities at Maidstone Leisure Centre!

Fun for all the family! at Maidstone Leisure Centre!

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Super Stars Holiday Club Cheesebox Photo Booth Meet & Greet Characters Intensive Swim Lessons Super Stars Holiday Club Bouncy Castle Cheesebox Photo Booth Juggle It All Meet & Greet Characters Aqua Challenge Intensive Swim Lessons Bouncy Castle Juggle It All Aqua Challenge

Fun for all the family! www.maidstoneleisure.com

www.maidstoneleisure.com

The Best Family Guide to What’s On

Primary Times front cover - Maidstone - MAY 2018.indd 1

27/04/2018 14:21

What’s On Your family diary for May, June and July Ongoing Until 17 Jun

Powerful Tides: 400 years of Chatham and the Sea, The Historic Dockyard, Chatham, ME4 4TE This exhibition brings works together for the first time that celebrate not only the Dockyard but also reconnects it back to the sea, exploring the emotions that both Chatham and the sea have had on artists from the 17th century to the present day. For more information visit www.thedockyard.co.uk

Until 24 Jun

Roar-some Dinosaur Trail, Bluewater Shopping Centre, Greenhithe, DA9 9ST Kids will come face-to-face with giant dinosaurs, hiding in and around the mall, whilst discovering interesting facts along the way. Guests can pick up a trail map from the concierge desk outside M&S on the Lower Mall, they’ll receive a fun-sized prehistoric prize at the end. For more information visit www.bluewater. co.uk

Until 30 Sep

Thanet’s Open-Top Bus, Various Locations Enjoy a family day out on an open-top bus, stopping at the local attractions. The bus will run from Stone Bay to Ramsgate. For more information and to view the full timetable visit www.stagecoachbus. com

Until 27 Oct

Costume Tours, Smallhythe Place, Tenterden, TN30 7NG 1.15-1.45pm. Delve into the store for a peek at the delicate and lavish costumes once worn by Ellen Terry and her actor friends. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/smallhythe-place

Until 25 Nov

400th Anniversary, The Historic Dockyard, Chatham, ME4 4TE This year marks the 400th anniversary since the Royal Dockyard was established. Go and along and celebrate. There are a number of programmes and activities organised throughout the year. For more information visit www.thedockyard. co.uk

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May Wed 16 May

Spring Migration Walk, RSPB Dungeness, Lydd, TN29 9PN 10.30am-12.30pm. Go and see which birds visit Dungeness in the spring time to feed and breed there.

Your walk will be led by a friendly guide with expert knowledge on the wildlife around the reserve. Booking essential. Charges apply. For more information visit www.rspb.org

Wed 16 – Sat 19 May

Museums at Night, The Historic Dockyard, Chatham, ME4 4TE Join in on one of the Museum at Night sessions and have a fun filled evening with the team exploring the Dockyard after the doors have shut!

For more information visit www. thedockyard.co.uk

Museums at Night, Various Locations A UK-wide festival which seeks to encourage visitors into museums, galleries and heritage sites by throwing their doors open after hours and putting on special evening events. For more information and to find an event near you visit www. museumsatnight.org.uk

Fri 18 May

Bat Walk, Bough Beech, Sevenoaks, TN14 6LD 8pm–10.30pm. Walk across farm fields and woodland with bat detectors to look and listen for bats. Donations are welcome to cover the cost of this event which is about £4 per adult, £1 per child.

To book call 01732 355 080. For more information visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

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Sat 19 May

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Charlotte FM Cosmetics Family Fun Day, Aylesford Community Centre, ME20 7AU 10am-4pm. There will be something for everyone. Over twenty stalls selling gifts, jewellery, angel cards and healing, kids stalls, rides outside and more. For more information call 07852 913 663.

Spring at Marden Meadows, Cranbrook, TN12 9PZ 10.30am-12.30pm. Join the Weald Warden for a walk around Marden Meadows, with a chance to see the fabulous display of green winged orchids at one of the best examples of unimproved hay meadows in the county. For more information and to book visit www.kentwildlifetrust. org.uk

See Rubble from PAW Patrol!

Spa Valley Railway, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5QY Rubble from PAW Patrol will be on hand to see his fans arriving on trains hauled by a steam or diesel locomotive from Tunbridge Wells West. For more information, times and to book visit www. spavalleyrailway.co.uk

Fri 18 – Sun 20 May

Crafts, Vintage & Gift Fair, Alexander Centre, Faversham, ME13 8NY

Roots is a family focused micro festival, a cross between a traditional village fair and an alternative lifestyle festival supporting local arts and crafts, local musicians and having a strong focus on sustainable living skills. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.holepark.com

9.30am–3pm. Go along and browse stalls exhibiting handicrafts, gift ideas and vintage wares. Free entry. For more information and to book visit www.thealexandercentre.com

Roots Gathering, Hole Park Garden, Cranbrook, TN17 4JA

14 May - 1 July 2018

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 19 – Sun 20 May

For all Things 1940s, Kent & East Sussex Railway, Tenterden, TN30 6HE Go along for a not-to-be-missed weekend of pure nostalgia! There will be live music, dancing, vehicles, fashion and so much more. For more information visit www.kesr.org.uk

Sun 20 May

Thronefest, Quex Park and Powell-Cotton Museum, Birchington, CT7 0BH 10am-5pm. Go along and enjoy a great day out in this medieval Game of Thrones Event. There will be jousting and re-enactments and more.

For more information and to book visit www.quexpark.co.uk

World Bee Day, The Gardens, Yalding, ME18 6EX 10.30am-4pm. Meet the beekeepers in the Apiary and browse items made with bee products. There will be fun activities for the kids and refreshments available to purchase throughout the day. In association with Yalding and District Beekeepers.

For more information visit www. yaldingbeekeepers.co.uk

Open Day, Monkton Nature Reserve, Nr Ramsgate, CT12 4LH 11am-3pm. Go and enjoy our annual Open Day with free entrance onto the Reserve. There will be acoustic music, stalls, tombola, birds of prey, astronomy, pond dipping, Children’s Fairy Trail and more. For more information visit www.monktonreserve.org

It’s a Knockout, Government Acre, Ramsgate, CT11 0HE 11.30am-3.30pm. Join in for a day to remember in an impressive games arena packed full of colourful, inflatable obstacles to contend with.

A fun-tastic way to support Pilgrims Hospice. For more information and to register visit www. pilgrimshospices.org

National Garden Scheme Day, Godinton House and Gardens, Ashford, TN23 3BP (Also 22 Jun) 1-6pm. The house and tea room will be open. Admission fees will be donated to the NGS. For more information visit www. godintonhouse.co.uk

Sailing Club Open Day, Haysden Country Park, Tonbridge, TN11 9BB 2-5pm. Enjoy free sail boat rides (weather permitting) and onshore activities. The Club is RYA affiliated and offers junior and adult training courses, is family friendly and offers excellent value for money.

For more information visit www. tonbridgesailing.org

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 6...

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Dear Readers Primary Times in North & West Kent 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG Tel: 01622 522116 Email: office@primarytimes.biz Website: www.primarytimes.co.uk Twitter: @PT_Kent Instagram: @primarytimesse

I’m typing this thinking warm thoughts of May but looking out the window all I’m seeing is puddles and a grey sky. Roll on the sunshine. It seems to have been a long cold winter and I think everyone is clamouring for the beginning of summer.

Rant over! So welcome to our May Half Term issue which covers from just before half term through to just before the beginning of the big summer break. With the weather Publishing Editor: Peter Watson changing May Half Term is the perfect time to start venturing Sales: Gill Pearce, Andrew Langridge, outside more and exploring. Have a look through the listings Joe Moore & Lola Olowofela for lots of ideas on what to do and where to go. Many Listings: Hayley Hughes & of the suggestions are free so do look carefully through Miriam Theobald them and mark them up. If you do attend anything please Editorial: Anna Stringer & Katie Knight mention that you read about them in Primary Times!

We’ve got lots of competitions for you all to enter. Please do remember to include your personal details on to your entries as we can’t let you win if we don’t know how to contact you.

No details are ever forwarded on, other than the winners.

What’s On Guide.......................2 News.........................................4 Family Theatre..........................8 Here Comes the Sun....................11 Education News....................... 14 Competitions............................17 Family Travel Ideas.................20 All Your Own Work!.................23

Have a fun and relaxing half term. We’ll be in schools again the week beginning 2 July.

Peter and the Primary Times team Primary Times is now printed on recycled paper throughout, from 100% post-consumer waste, made in Europe by a paper mill that is certified and supports responsible forestry.

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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 North & West Kent is operated under franchise licence.

Are you holding a summer fair at school or any events that we could help you publicise in our free listings? If so, send the details in plenty of time to listings@primarytimes. biz and we will do our very best to include them in the next magazine.

inside this issue....

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Production: Alison Watson Office Manager: Chris Blower Administrators: Claire Wood & Tina Love Proof Reader: Catherine Draisey Social Media: Rachel Benson

Contents

E c ola b el P E

Children’s Swimming Lessons at Maidstone Leisure Centre

Sign up TODAY! Call 08451 552277 or ask at reception.

www.maidstoneleisure.com Primary Times - Half page -- Maidstone - lessons MAY.indd 1

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14 May - 1 July 2018

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News

You Are Awesome How many times have your children complained because they are no good at sport, can’t do maths or really struggle with exams? If children believe they can’t do something, the chances are they won’t try. But what if they really could get better at anything they tried their hand at? Matthew Syed is setting out to help children excel at just about anything they put their mind to.

Ultimate Fun in the School Holidays

Ultimate Activity Camps provide outstanding activity day camps for 4-14 year olds in the school holidays, where the children’s welfare and having fun are the primary concern. Every day children will enjoy a brilliant mix of sports, games and creative activities led by inspiring staff at amazing locations.

For flexibility, you can book by the day or week and change dates for free up to 14 days in advance.You can also use childcare vouchers to pay. For peace of mind, Ultimate Activity Camps are Ofsted registered and all staff are DBS cleared and are qualified teachers or instructors.

They run from Monday to Friday with drop off from 8am and collection until 6pm.

Call 03301 117 077 to ask about booking or visit www. ultimateactivity.co.uk to see all the latest offers.

You Are Awesome inspires and empowers young readers with a toolkit for developing a growth mindset and finding the confidence to realise their potential. The first children’s book from the Times journalist, two-time Olympian and bestselling mindset author Matthew Syed, takes the themes and principles of his award-winning adult novels and recasts them for a 9+ readership.

Using real life stories (concerning the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Serena Williams and JK Rowling) Syed demonstrates that success really is earned rather than pre-ordained, and that our abilities can be transformed through practice. With a growth mindset, based on hard work and determination, practice, self-belief and resilience, there’s no reason why anyone can’t achieve (almost) anything.

Practical, insightful and positive, this is the book to help children build resilience, embrace their mistakes and grow into successful, happy adults.

Matthew Syed’s number one best-selling book You Are Awesome is available for £9.99 online and from all good high street retailers.

Help your child excel at anything they put their mind to!

The first childrenʼs book from Times journalist and bestselling mindset author Matthew Syed will inspire and empower young readers to find the confidence to realise their potential. ʻI loved seeing my daughter race through this book and become inspired to be the best version of her that she could be and work smarter, not harder.

It is for any child who might be feeling that everyone is getting places except them, and challenges the thing that holds you back (mostly your own insecurities).

My daughter cannot wait to take it into school and share it with her classmatesʼ RACHEL, PARENT REVIEWER

Available now from

Discover more great books to support your childʼs learning at facebook.com/HachetteSchools 4

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Eating healthily and getting fruit into your kids’ diet isn’t always easy, especially when they’re hungry or fancy something sweet.

To help make eating fruit a bit easier, and without the mess or waste, Fruit Bowl have created an irresistibly tasty range of fruit snacks packed with real fruity goodness. They’re perfect to munch between meals or curb after school tummy rumblings, as well as a great addition to lunchboxes.

Beams Colour Dash

Beams, a local charity based in Hextable that supports disabled children and their families, is hosting a Colour Dash Event. This is great family fun where adults and children, disabled and nondisabled, can join in and make the area much more colourful.

News

Fruit Bowl’s Fruity Snacks Range

Held at Jeskyns Community Woodland on Sunday 8 July, you can run or walk the 5k route and organisers will throw coloured powder at you at each 1km marker. The powder is not harmful and is bio degradable. There’s easy disabled access and all ages are welcome. All income raised will support Beams disabled children holiday play schemes. Last year over 500 people took part in the event and they’re hoping for even more this time.

Book online at www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/colour-dashtickets-41278075836 , call 01322 668 501 or email fundraising@wearebeams.org.uk.

Celebrate World Bee Day In fact, all of the treats in the Fruit Bowl range like Fruit Peelers, School Bars, and Fruit Flakes are so fruity that they count as one of your 5 a day!

Fruit Bowl also has a range of fruit snacks dipped in a deliciously creamy yogurt, perfect for a more indulgent treat. The products can be found in all major supermarkets nationwide and online in the home baking aisle. For more information about the full range of Fruit Bowl products, visit www.fruit-bowl.com.

To celebrate the first World Bee Day on Sunday 20 May,Yalding and District Beekeepers (www. yaldingbeekeepers.co.uk) and the Gardens Yalding are holding an exciting event. It’s free to attend and family-friendly too!

It’s a great opportunity to discover the fascinating world of bees, meet the beekeepers in the Apiary and browse items made with bee products. There will be fun activities for the kids as well as refreshments and a delicious hog roast lunch available to purchase throughout the day. All areas of the much loved Gardens will be open for you to explore and enjoy.

World Bee Day celebrates the importance of bees as pollinators for biodiversity and food security. It also helps to highlight the issues surrounding the growing decline in world bee population and the urgency with which this needs addressing around the whole world.

Go along and discover how you can help save the Bees. Entry and parking is free and everyone is welcome. Photo credit: Neil James Brain

our new packs are still bursting with fruity flavour

bursting off the shelves in the supermarket home baking aisle! fruit-bowl.com Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

14 May - 1 July 2018

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What’s On

More What’s On

Your family diary for May, June and July

May An Afternoon with Jaqueline Wilson, Margate Winter Gardens, CT9 1HX Waterstones presents the awardwinning and bestselling author who will be discussing her career and latest book Rose Rivers. There will be no book signing after the talk but there will be plenty of opportunity for children to ask questions.

Charges apply. For more information visit www.margatewintergardens. co.uk

Sun 20 May – Sun 8 Jul

Junior Park Run, Betteshanger Country Park, Deal, CT14 0BF (Sunday only) 9-10am. A free 2k run for 4-14 year olds. Register before your first run. For more information visit www.betteshanger-park.co.uk

Tues 22 May

The Greatest Showman Sing a –Long, Gulbenkian, Canterbury CT2 7NB Go along and sing your heart out to the bold and original musical that celebrates the birth of show business.

For more information and to book visit www.thegulbenkian.co.uk

Fri 25 May

Bat Walk, Bore Place, Chiddingstone, TN8 7AR 7-9pm. See the bats and their amazing aerial acrobatics and other night time animals.You’ll be guided on a night walk using bat detectors to listen out for bats as they leave their roosts and fly out to catch insects.You may even spot some deer or hares. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www. boreplace.org

Fri 25 – Sun 27 May

The Big Brocante, Hop Farm, Tonbridge, TN12 6PY 8am-4pm. A hand-picked selection of brilliant quality traders, decorative home-wares, vintage and antiques, artisan food and swing jazz - all this and more. For more information visit www.thehopfarm.co.uk

Sat 26 May

Sat 26 – Sun 27 May Masters Historic Festival, Brands Hatch Circuit, Longfield, DA3 8NG

Event includes FIA Masters Historic Sports cars, from the early years of the famous Brands Hatch 1000km event. Plus fondly-remembered GTs, saloons and single seaters from the past, all being driven as their creators intended. For more information and to book visit www.brandshatch.co.uk

Beasts Roadshow, Penshurst Place, Tonbridge, TN11 8DG

Toy Fair, The Hornby Visitor Centre, Margate, CT9 4JX 10am-2pm. Go along to see a range of toys and curiosities from across the ages. Under 5s enter for free. For more information visit www.hornby. com/hornby-visitor-centre

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14 May - 1 July 2018

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Roman Life and the Art of Roman Cookery, Folkestone Museum, CT20 1DY

10am-4pm. Ever wondered what the Romans ate 2000 years ago?

Find out with the Time Travellers this May Half Term. Free drop-in, family event. For more information visit www.folkestonemuseum.co.uk

The Beast, Betteshanger Country Park, Deal, CT14 0BF

11am-5pm. Get ready for squirming, scaly, and sometimes squealing reptiles, mammals and insects as we welcome the Hawking Centre and their Beasts Roadshow giving you the perfect opportunity to learn all about their peculiar pets!

For more information visit www. penshurstplace.com

10am-9pm. The formidable inflatable obstacle course returns to Betteshanger Park and it’s going to be a world-first, whopping 384m long course – that’s over 100 more metres of bouncy obstacles than in 2017 and a length that has never before been attempted. To book visit www.betteshanger-park.co.uk

Sat 26 – Mon 28 May

Grand Medieval Joust, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL

WWII Weekend, Dover Castle, CT16 1HU 10am–5pm. Witness an explosive battle, military encampments, talks, displays and live music. Immerse yourself in the spirit and explosive action of the 1940s and make it a full family day out to remember. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www.english-heritage. org.uk

Take the King’s Shilling!, Folkestone Museum, CT20 1DY 10am-4pm. Meet Gunner Sergeant John Cullen and learn about life as a soldier in the Napoleonic war and how to make a musket cartridge. Free drop-in, family event.

For more information visit www. folkestonemuseum.co.uk

Summer Lantern Workshop, Riverhill Himalayan Gardens, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RR 11am-4pm. Get creative as you make your own lantern, a fun packed experience to remember.

For more information visit www. riverhillgardens.co.uk

Elmer Day Celebration, Strood Library, Rochester, ME2 4TJ 2-3pm. Join in for a special Elmer Storytime and craft. Suitable for ages 4-10. Booking is essential for the free event. For more information and to book call 01634 337 799.

“

I saw your event in Primary Times....

Please mention you saw the event listed in Primary Times

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

Step back in time to the Middle Ages and see fully armoured jousters battling it out in an authentic jousting competition.

Enjoy living history encampments, firepower and demonstrations and mounted skill at arms displays. For more information and to book visit www.leeds-castle.com

Sat 26 May – Sat 2 Jun Bug and Butterfly, Folkestone Museum, CT20 1DY

10am-4pm. Drop in and get creative with bugs and butterflies at Folkestone Museum, any age is welcome for some arts and crafts and family fun during Half Term. A free event. For more information visit www.folkestonemuseum.co.uk

Sat 26 May – Sun 3 Jun May Half Term Pony Trail, Emmetts Garden, Sevenoaks, TN14 6BA

10am -4pm. Peggy the pony’s friends have escaped from the stables. Find Peggy’s friends around the garden at Emmetts and start ticking off your 50 things activities. Look out for Peggy along the way. Charges apply. For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/emmettsgarden

Become a Conservation Cadet this Half Term, Howletts Wild Animal Park, Bekesbourne, CT4 5AE 9.30am-5pm. Journey through a land, once frozen in time with free guided tours to discover Animals of the Ice Age at Howletts! You can also become a Conservation

Cadet when you take part in an identification trail and join in a twilight tour (advance booking essential). To buy tickets visit www. aspinallfoundation.org/howletts

Fairytales and Fables Themed Event Opening, Groombridge Place, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 9QG 10am-5pm. Uncover the story of Hansel and Gretel and discover the fairytales and fables of Groombridge Place. Join in the fun with story-telling and shows, and of course enjoy the formal gardens and enchanted forest.

For more information and to buy tickets visit www.groombridgeplace. com

Snappy Spring Holiday, Penshurst Place, Tonbridge, TN11 8DG 10.30am-6pm. Pick up an trail sheet bursting with new shots of the gardens, and we want you to find out where we took them! Upload your shots of your finished trail sheet using #SnappedAtPenshurst for your chance to win a Family Season Ticket!

For more information visit www. penshurstplace.com

Edwardian Life, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Enjoy a Punch and Judy show with a Tudor twist and try out games from the period including coconut shy, tin can alley and bean bag race. Follow an Edwardian quiz through the rooms of the castle and much more.

For more information and to book visit www.hevercastle.co.uk

Half Term Fun at the Farm, Hop Farm, Tonbridge, TN12 6PY 10am-5pm. Go along for superherothemed entertainment to include an amazing Magic Show and Krypton Disco. Plus loads of rides and inflatables and the popular indoor soft play. Combat Laser Games, Hovermania and more. For more information and to book visit www. thehopfarm.co.uk

Family Fun Guided Walk, Scotney Castle, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 8JN This walk will incorporate a visit to our Wilderness Camp and our natural play trail. Find the big tree swing in the pasture, search for butterflies in the long grass, before heading to the castle view point.

For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/scotney-castle

Half Term Family Fun, Ightham Mote, Nr Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT 11am–4.30pm. Using a compass, follow the Billy Goat Gruff trail and tick off one of your 50 things. On Thurs 31 May, there will also be a Billy Goat craft in the Squire’s Room.

Charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ ightham-mote

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 10...

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Family Theatre

Hazlitt Maidstone Box Office: 01622 758 611 15 Jun

Circesque This show encourages pole & aerial schools, dancers and performers all over the UK to unite and showcase their awesome skills, choreographed to wow their audience.

Family Theatre Assembly Hall Tunbridge Wells Box Office: 01892 530 613 16 Jun

Once Upon a Time Be transported into a magical world of make believe and taken along on a fantastical journey by the brilliant students of Stagecoach Tunbridge Wells.

Brook Chatham Box Office: 01634 338 338 26 – 27 May

E M Forster Tonbridge School Box Office: 01732 304 241 26 – 27 May

What the Ladybird Heard Join the woolly sheep, the hairy hog, the fat red hen and the dainty dog in this hit musical adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks’ colourful farmyard adventure. Ages 3+.

17 Jun

Me and My Bee

Multi award-winning theatre company, ThisEgg, invites you to Island Dance Academy will save the world - one bee at be performing various a time. A new comedy Enjoy genre of dance to for children and the show! some favourite adults alike. Plant And don’t fantasy themes the seed for change, forget to say such as Beauty join the Bee Party. you saw it in and The Beast, Before it’s too late…

Primary Aladdin and Ages 5+.

Jungle Book.

Times!

Pure Imagination

4 – 7 Jul

10 Jun

The Addams Family

Time Tunnel This is a show of memories celebrating the biggest hits of the last 60 years through dance, singing and acting.

Dream Academy students from 18 months – 15 years old will be showing off their skills.

Exchange Studio Maidstone Box Office: 01622 758 611 10 Jun

The Elves and the Shoemaker Mr Cobbler and his wife are struggling to afford the leather for him to make any shoes to sell. But could their fortune change as watching from on high is Fairy Insole who may just use her magic. Ages 2+.

Join Uncle Fester, Lurch, Pugsley and more for a heartwarming story of love family and friendship… with a twist. This show is sure to entertain whether you are 7 or 307!

Orchard Dartford Box Office: 01322 220 000 23 – 26 May

Gangsta Granny It’s Friday night and Ben knows that means only one thing, staying with Granny! There will be cabbage soup, cabbage pie and cabbage cake and Ben knows one thing for sure, it’s going to be so boring.

2 Jun

The Little Mix Experience Four hugely talented girls pay tribute to one of the UK’s finest girl bands. With breathtaking dance moves, replica costumes and some of the finest vocals in the UK.

Stag Sevenoaks Box Office: 01732 450 175 26 – 27 May

14 May - 1 July 2018

6 – 7 Jun

Teletubbies Live Join Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po in a show full of love and laughter as they explore the magical world of Teletubbyland.

Alice in Wonderland

10 Jun

Join Alice as she takes a tumble down the rabbit hole into the wonderful world of Wonderland!

Grin along as we go on this epic adventure, meeting zany new friends along the way.

Thumbelina

9 – 10 Jun

Oliver!

Enjoy one of the most beloved British musicals, which vividly brings to life Dicken’s timeless characters with its ever popular story of the boy who asked for more.

Trinity Tunbridge Wells Box Office: 01892 678 678 20 May

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland

Hans Christian Andersen’s tale of a girl no bigger than a thumb, and her encounters with a frog, mouse, mole and swallow is played gently amongst gardening tools.

Marlowe Canterbury Box Office: 01227 787 787 28 May

Alice in Wonderland Let’s All Dance returns with this fabulous family favourite. Stunning dancing, much loved characters and super costumes bring the famous tale to life in this magical ballet production. Ages 2-11.

29 May

Friends For All

How mad are The Hatter and The Hare? Where is The White Rabbit going? Questions are answered and answers are questioned in this simple, yet highly original re-telling of the Lewis Carroll classic. Ages 4-11.

An interactive spoken word performance for families, with rapping, dancing and far-out video projections. It is a story about having the confidence to be yourself and stand up for what you believe in.

27 – 28 May

30 May

Wind In The Willows: The Musical

The Selfish Giant

Join Ratty, Badger, Mole and the impulsive Toad as they embark on a series of riotous adventures spiralling from Toad’s insatiable need for speed. Suitable for all ages.

17 Jun

Dr Dolittle Go along and see Dr Dolittle light up the stage in this magical musical adventure.

This is a brand new show with original music, lots of audience participation and amazing puppets. Ages 7+.

The Woodville Gravesend Box Office: 08442 439 480 27 May

Me and My Bee Multi award-winning theatre company, ThisEgg, invites you

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to save the world - one bee at a time. A new comedy for children and adults alike.

Enjoy Oscar Wilde’s classic tale reimagined for the stage in this magical adventure for the whole family.

30 May

Thumbelina Hans Christian Andersen’s tale of a girl no bigger than a thumb, and her encounters with a frog, mouse, mole and swallow is played gently amongst gardening tools. Show taking place at The Kit. Ages 2-7.

30 May – 3 Jun

Awful Auntie From the award-winning producers of Gangsta Granny comes the world premiere of David Walliams’ amazing tale of frights, fights and friendship, featuring a very large owl, a very small ghost and a very awful Auntie.

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Open Weekends & Holidays 10AM - 6PM

MultiSports at Weald of Kent

Sign up now for our Summer Term Festival-inspired entertainment and a scenic beach backdrop, visit Dreamland Margate for a perfect day out by the sea

DREAMLAND.CO.UK Advance tickets and membership available online

for s p m a c y a d y ctivit Outstanding a olds this Summer 4 to 14 year ol, Tunbridge Wells! ho c S l il H e s o R at

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per day! ff o 4 £ , k e e w er 18 £20 offBp y 12th June 20 ook by Tuesda 14 May - 1 July 2018

9

What’s On

More What’s On

Your family diary for May, June and July

May

Mon 28 May

Farmyard Fairy Tales, Kent Life, Maidstone, ME14 3AU Join Kent Life’s entertainers across the site in for some fairy tale themed activities! You can plant your very own beanstalk, help to build the three little pigs houses and more!

There will also be a variety of fabulous shows in the Big Top. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.kentlife.org.uk

Half Term Trail, Lullingstone Country Park, Eynsford, DA4 0JF 10am-3pm. Explore the woods following the self-led activity trail and see what you can discover about the park. All completed trails will receive a small prize. For more information and to book visit www. kentcountryparks.co.uk

Mythical Beasts, The Historic Dockyard, Chatham, ME4 4TE Search for mythical beasts at The Historic Dockyard Chatham this Half Term. Can you track the unicorns and mermaids at the Dockyard?

Delve into the world of myths that lent themselves to ships made at Chatham, but can you find where they are today? For more information visit www.thedockyard.co.uk

Sat 26 May – Sun 10 Jun Beastly Bugs Trail, Knole House, Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT

(Selected dates) 12noon–4pm.

Have fun hunting for the hidden bugs and learn about the pests that affect Knole’s collection on the new beastly bugs trail in the showrooms.

Ages 2-7. Admission charges apply.

For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/knole

Sun 27 May

Cranbrook Goes Nuts in May, High Street, TN17 3EE 10am-5pm. Come and join in this street festival celebrating everything and anything that grows! Enjoy demonstations, make a garden in a pot, spray-can workshop, make bees and butterflies, face painting and much more. For more information visit www.cranbrookgoesnutsinmay. co.uk

Sun 27 – Mon 28 May

Medieval Weekend, Lullingstone Castle, Dartford, DA4 0JA 11am-5pm. Step back in time to experience the authentic sights and sounds with ‘living history’ displays, character dress, campfires, tents and medieval weapons, courtesy of the remarkable Woodvilles medieval re-enactment group.

For more information visit www. lullingstonecastle.co.uk

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Chilham Chase, Chilham Castle, CT4 8DB 11am-7pm. A family fun run; participate in the Chilham Chase, take a picnic, enjoy the food and drink from the stalls and be entertained by a programme of events. Charges apply. For more information visit www.chilhamchase. com

Tues 29 May

Ladybird House Make-andTake Sessions, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend, DA13 9PA 10am and 2pm. Have fun painting your very own wooden ladybird house to hang or stand in your garden. Ticket fee includes a craft, mini beast tattoo, a drink and a yummy bug biscuit. For more information and to book visit www. millbrookgc.co.uk

Family Forest Skills, Hunstead Wood/Denstead Wood, Canterbury, CT4 7NT 10am-12noon. Discover ways to have fun outdoors as a family, learning fire lighting without matches and practicing archery skills, after making your own bow and arrow from natural materials. Meet in the parking area at Hunstead Wood. Book on 07717 367 944.

For more information visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Zulu Shields, Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham, ME7 1UR 10.30am-3.30pm. All Zulu warriors must have a shield to defend themselves, but the patterns were used to identify which regiment you belonged to. Design your own personalised shield to identify your regiment. Charges apply. For more information visit www.re-museum. co.uk

Half Term Activities, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH 10.30–11.30am, 11.30am–12.30pm and 1-2pm. Enjoy a week of creative workshops with a cartoon/comic theme this Half Term. Today’s activity will be creating your own comic strip. Ages 4-11. For more information and to book visit www. maidstonemuseum.org

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

14 May - 1 July 2018

“

I saw your event in Primary Times....

Please mention you saw the event listed in Primary Times

”

Tues 29 – Wed 30 May River Explorers, Westgate Parks, Canterbury, CT1 2BQ

10-11.15am or 12.30-1.45pm.

Discover the animals which call the Great River Stour their home. Use a net to collect some creatures and identify them by playing river bug bingo. Book on 07850 715 596.

For more information visit www. westgateparks.co.uk

Tues 29 May – Fri 1 Jun Become a Zulu Warrior!, Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham, ME7 1UR

10.30am-3.30pm. Zulu warriors were traditionally formed into regiments by age. Join in this holiday and transform yourself into a Zulu warrior in these family-friendly dropin events inspired by the museum’s fascinating collections. For more information visit www.re-museum. co.uk

Half Term Activities, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH 10.30–11.30am, 11.30am–12.30pm and 1-2pm. Enjoy a week of creative workshops with a cartoon/comic theme this Half Term. Ages 4-11. For more information and to book visit www.maidstonemuseum.org

Wed 30 May

Discover Pond Dipping, Tyland Barn, Maidstone, ME14 3BD 10.30- 11.30am. This is a great family event; one hour pond dipping sessions to find and catch a variety of pond life, then view them through a microscope and identify what you have found. For more information and to book visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Our Amazing Animal World, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend, DA13 9PA (Also 1 Jun) 10am, 11am, 12noon and 1pm. Get up close to real life creepy crawlies and creatures, such as African land snails, African pygmy hedgehog, corn snakes, tortoises and more. For more information and to book visit www.millbrookgc.co.uk

Blooming Marvellous, Rochester Library, ME1 1EW 2.15-3.15pm. Join in this stories and craft session suitable for ages 4-10.

Booking is essential for this free event. For more information and to book call 01634 337 799.

theme this Half Term. Today’s activity will be creating a piece of pop art to hang on your wall. Ages 4-11. For more information and to book visit www.maidstonemuseum.org

Family Explorer Day, The Larches, Detling, ME14 3HW 10.30am-12noon. Take along the whole family and explore the different habitats on this lovely nature reserve. Using bark rubbing, spot the difference and colour collecting, build and take home a collage that showcases the diversity of plants that grow there. Meet at The Pilgrims Way. To book visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Traditional Jewellery, Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham, ME7 1UR 10.30am-3.30pm. Jewellery was worn by everybody and was often symbolic of special events. Create your own traditional jewellery to represent some special memories. Charges apply. For more information visit www.re-museum.co.uk

Family Eco-Poetry Event, Ditton Quarry & Ditton Community Centre, Aylesford, ME20 6AH 10am-1pm. A plant themed creative writing/ecopoetry workshop for all the family. This event starts with a guided walk around the beautiful Ditton Quarry. Get out and reconnect with nature. For more information and to register visit www.medwayvalley.org

Introduction to Small Mammals, Bore Place, Chiddingstone, TN8 7AR 10am–12noon.You’ll check our humane traps and hedgehog tunnel to see small mammals close up, and learn how to identify differences between mice, voles and shrews. A free event for adults and children.

For more information visit www. boreplace.org

Wed 30 May – Fri 1 Jun May Half Term Crafts, Smallhythe Place, Tenterden, TN30 7NG

2-4pm. Shelter under the cow byre and your little ones can get creative in the beautiful spring garden with the volunteers. Materials will be provided. Charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/smallhythe-place

Wed 30 May – Sun 3 Jun Stick Mania, Riverhill Himalayan Gardens, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RR

11am-4pm. Get creative and enjoy the chance to make absolutely anything from sticks. What will you make? For more information visit www.riverhillgardens.co.uk

Half Term Activities, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH 10.30–11.30am, 11.30am–12.30pm and 1-2pm. Enjoy a week of creative workshops with a cartoon/comic

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 16...

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Fun Days Out with the Family

Historic Dockyard Chatham

Can you track the unicorns and mermaids at The Historic Dockyard Chatham? This Half Term you’ll be able to delve into the world of myths that lent themselves to ships made at Chatham, but can you find where they are today?

Discover the Mythical Trail on-site to explore the Dockyard’s wonderful collections that often go unnoticed to visitors. Create your own monster with the clues too!

In the Steam, Steel and Submarine gallery, there will be a craft station for children to let their imaginations take hold. Once your monster drawing has been completed, children can claim their surprise in the lucky dip.

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Explore the recently re-hung gallery with new selfie spots and interactive displays to learn about The Dockyard story through the industrial revolution and the two World Wars.

There will also be storytelling taking place in No.3 Slip. Go along to hear a mythical tale live alongside a friendly dragon!

During Half Term The Dockyard’s two food outlets - The Mess Deck and Wagon Stop will also be offering mythical themed food for little ones.

All of this and The Dockyard’s usual fun and adventures of three historic warships, galleries and much more is included in your entry ticket!

Cartoon Magic at Maidstone Museum

Maidstone Museum is a great family-friendly destination for a fun and engaging day out this spring.Visit over the Half Term holidays and the kids can enjoy a whole week of creative workshops with a cartoon theme.

On Tuesday 29 May the museum will be showing you how to create your own comic strip. Make a piece of pop art to hang on your wall on Wednesday 30 May and make a flip book

HAlf TERM fUN!

Cartoon Workshops ets Tick 5 £1

16 June 2018

Join the brilliant Gary Northfield, creator of Julius Zebra, on a 2 hour workshop for budding young cartoonists.

Suitable for ages 7-11yrs.

MAY 26 D UNE 3R J TH

thedockyard.co.uk

FREE*

A day of fossil fun for all the family!

PLUS enjoy the fabulous outdoor show The Iguanodon Restaurant – set in the belly of a life-size dinosaur!

MYTHS MADE IN

INCLUDED IN YOUR ANNUAL TICKET Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

Roadshow featuring The Iguanodon Restaurant 30 June 2018

* small charge for optional craft activities

Fossil

www.maidstonemuseum.org

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14 May - 1 July 2018

11

Here comes the Sun...

Here Comes the Sun...

Here comes the Sun...

on Thursday 31 May. On Friday 1 June it’s your chance to become a Superhero as you design your very own t-shirt with cape.

The brilliant Gary Northfield, cartoonist and author of the internationally renowned Julius Zebra books, will be visiting too. Gary will be at the museum on 16 June to lead two Cartoon Workshops for children - get loads of drawing tips and learn lots of Roman and Egyptian facts along the way.

The museum’s Fossil Roadshow returns on 30 June and the Iguanodon Restaurant will also be in Brenchley Gardens. This outdoor theatre performance, set in a life-size dinosaur, tells the story of geology in a fast and furious romp through 60 years of scientific discovery.

Don’t forget the museum is a fantastic venue for birthday parties too.

Visit www.maidstonemuseum.org for further details.

Brands Hatch American Extravaganza

Brands Hatch will be hosting its biggest and best family day out with American SpeedFest VI on 9-10 June. With colourful NASCAR racing, and entertainment for individuals of all ages, it’s an all-singing, all-dancing festival of fun with a stars and stripes theme.

In addition to a fast and furious race programme, there will be massive car displays including famous cars from the movies complete with special photo opportunities. Plus, there will be an extensive selection of American car demonstrations, off-track stunt shows, live music, and themed food with BBQ competitions.

This is the biggest event of its kind in the UK, with the feel of a major American sporting occasion with American voices on the airwaves and all the ceremony you’d expect. Special family attractions include Dexter the living T-Rex, mini monster truck mania, Diggerland and face painters. There will also be a fun fair and bouncy castles.

American SpeedFest VI is going to be a great weekend for racers and non-racers alike. Tickets for the festival are £25 online with free entry for under 13s, and discounted admission for 13-15 year olds. For more information, please call 08434 539 000 or visit www.speedfest. co.uk.

Visitors aged 7-14 can explore the new Tudor Towers adventure playground with its own moat, drawbridge and three turrets. It features three slides and two poles and lots of interactive elements including musical instruments, a floor maze and hidden boxes to find.

Families can also enjoy the challenge of the Yew Maze or the popular Water Maze (but don’t forget to bring a towel).

Gravity Trampoline Park

It doesn’t matter if you’re 18 months or 82 years old, you can always have fun at Gravity Trampoline Park. Bounce to your heart’s content between the interconnected trampolines, challenge your friends to a game of slam-dunk or dodgeball, hone your skills on the big air bag, or just sit back and watch the kids exhaust themselves from the viewing gallery whilst enjoying a delicious drink and free Wifi.

Trampolines stretch from wall-to-wall forming a huge area of bounceable space which is used for a variety of activities including freestyle open jump sessions giving you full access to the park and all its activities.

Plus with 10 minutes of party time every hour, everyone experiences the park’s special effects including laser-lights, theatrical smoke and a whole new soundtrack.

Gravity also offers parties for all ages. Parties include socks for all guests, 15 minutes of private dodgeball, a group photo, a dedicated party host for the party duration and a decorated table with a food package of your choice delivered from the likes of Pizza Express, Nando’s or ASK Italian with unlimited soft-drinks.

To find out more and to book, please visit www.gravity-uk.com.

Edwardian Life at Hever Castle

This Half Term step back in time to the early 20th century when the Astor family were in residence at Hever Castle.

From 26 May – 3 June visitors can enjoy a traditional Punch and Judy show with a Tudor twist, as well as try their hand at games from the period including a coconut shy, tin-can alley and bean bag race or enjoy a leisurely game of croquet on the lawn.

Learn about a collection of butterflies and moths from a colourful resident lepidopterist. Meet costumed characters from the era as you explore the awardwinning gardens, and look out for visitors arriving in Edwardian dress with prizes for the best dressed boy and girl each day.

Children can play traditional Edwardian games in the Castle or explore the rooms to learn about the history of the time.

Discover the Astor family’s ‘rags to riches’ story in an interactive exhibition in the Astor Suite. Listen to interviews with former ‘below stairs’ staff and watch rare archive home movies.

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14 May - 1 July 2018

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Here comes the Sun...

Big Day Out Kent

Big Day Out is back and it’s bigger and better than ever. The familyfriendly, multi-genre music festival will return to Mote Park with X Factor 2008 champion Alexandra Burke headlining the mainstage.

Joining Alexandra will be many other talented artists including Lemar and Grace Davies.

Swashbuckle’s Cook and Line will make their Big Day Out debuts with a performance on the main stage, which will be followed

by Mr Bloom as he returns for another one of his famous stage performances.

Paw Patrol’s Rubble and Skye will be making their debut appearances along with Peter Rabbit in the official Kids Zone, and will be carrying out meet and greets at intervals throughout the day.

The official Kids Zone will also play host to performances from popular Princesses as well as additional meet and greets from an array of different Superheroes who will be wowing everyone with their super powers.

The 2018 edition of the event will also consist of a number of interactive workshops including a Bollywood Bhangra Dance Workshop, Cheerleading School, Puppet Making, Theatre School, an Archery Workshop, Circus School and a Hip-Hop Dance School. The biggest inflatable park in the UK, Bounce Land, will also be returning, so whether you’re 2 or 42, you can have a go on some monster inflatables.

The Big Day Out will be taking place on Saturday 14 July at Mote Park from 11am to 9pm. For more information, please visit www. bigdayoutfestival.com.

ROYAL ENGINEERS MUSEUM

ti vi ti es c A y l i m a F Spring

r! o i r r a W u Zul See website for more details

29 May - 1 June 10.30am - 3.30pm w w w. r e - m u s e u m . c o . u k Prince Arthur Road | Gillingham | Kent | ME7 1UR /RoyalEngineersMuseum/

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@ REMuseum

14 May - 1 July 2018

13

Education News The Hayesbrook School

The Hayesbrook School is looking forward to welcoming the next Year 7 intake in September 2018. Year 6 pupils will be attending their transition events and experience days are scheduled for Year 5 families making their important secondary school choices very soon.

Mr Hatley, Principal, is looking forward to welcoming new families into the Hayesbrook community. He said, “It’s our privilege to be working with new families to secure the future of their sons”.

Jack Johnson, a Year 7 student, has put his experience of Hayesbrook life into words.

“When I first walked into Hayesbrook, I was nervous until I saw the boy sitting in the chair next to me and the one in the corner was exactly the same, so I realised we were all in the same boat. All in all the transition was so easy it felt like clockwork, I was already settling in.

Since I started at Hayesbrook I’ve found confidence which I didn’t have before and I have improved in all my subjects. At the start of Year 7 we all visited a university to help us build our hopes for the future. It’s a long way away but I hope to go to university and become an engineer.

The teachers know how to stretch and who to help, setting clear objectives in every lesson. I always think to myself that an A in a grammar school is exactly the same as one in any other school.

One of my favourite things about Hayesbrook is Enrichment.

Enrichment is where everyone stays after school for one hour. You chose from a list of different activities to do. For instance, I did music last term and now I’m doing debating. The best thing is that it’s all up to you - if you want to do cricket then do cricket! It’s worth staying after school.

What some people think at 7.30 in the morning is ‘ughh I have school’. I think ‘excellent I have school’”.

In the second part of the project, pupils will spend a day in their nearest green space or park working with Outdoor Studios (OS), a specialist Arts company. Workshops include exploring perceptions of self, interacting with the environment, body language, emotions and drawing outdoors, taking in different perspectives.

Golding Homes are also supporting the project with a donation towards the activities, as well as £500 for each school to apply for Artsmark registration. Artsmark is the creative quality standard for schools, accredited by Arts Council England and provides a clear framework for teachers to plan, develop and evaluate arts, culture and creativity across the curriculum. There is no cost to the schools involved since these will be met by the project, including coach transport, art materials, refreshments and supply cover teachers.

Schools can find out more or sign up to join in, so please contact Roz Meredith on 01622 602 853 or email rosalindmeredith@maidstone. gov.uk for further details.

St Augustine Academy

St Augustine Academy knows parents want the best for their child and have high expectations of what the ideal secondary school should provide for them. The Academy in Maidstone delivers a wide, varied and challenging curriculum in an atmosphere where students are known, nurtured and valued. This has been endorsed by an Ofsted ‘Good’ report in 2014 and again in 2018.

The Academy has high expectations for its students, and with triple science for all and a grammar stream, there is a chance for everyone to excel and broaden their horizons. As a small school with excellent modern facilities, St Augustine’s can focus on developing the individual’s full potential with a broad curriculum and a wide choice of extracurricular activities.

Green Spaces, Natural Faces

The Learning Team at Maidstone Museum has received substantial funding from Artswork, a bridge organisation of the Arts Council, to deliver an exciting art-based health and wellbeing project with 15 local schools.

The ‘Green Spaces, Natural Faces’ project will see pupils, who might not otherwise have the opportunity, spend a day in the museum investigating different art forms and looking at emotions, faces and expressions linked to emotional wellbeing. They will then create their own piece of art with a focus on expressions of ‘self’.

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14 May - 1 July 2018

• Ofsted ‘Good’ (January 2017) • Attendance above national average 2017 • Above national average attainment 2017 Ofsted judged The Hayesbrook School as “a calm and orderly place to learn. Relationships between adults and pupils are warm and caring. …..students feel safe at school”. (2017) We will be holding open events in September and October 2018.

For more information visit the academy’s website: www.hayesbrook.kent.sch.uk/openbookings For further information about the academy, please call 01732 500600 or email admissions@hayesbrook.kent.sch.uk

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Flexi-School Dyslexia

If your child is struggling to make progress at school, or if they are losing their self-esteem and becoming sad, withdrawn or anxious, it could be down to dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, auditory, working memory or processing difficulties.

Flexi-School Dyslexia is a unique, specialist provision where your child can gain all they need to give them confidence, an understanding of their learning style and the opportunity to fill the gaps in their knowledge created when they get left behind.

With a growing reputation for excellence, a qualified specialist teacher with extensive experience and a team of equally experienced and excellent teaching staff, FSD is the right choice for your child and an opportunity for you to take control of the provision your child receives at an affordable price. If things are still a stretch, there may be a bursary available for you. For more details, call Matt on 07855 471 726 or email matt@algarsacademy.co.uk. Alternatively you can visit their website at www.flexi-schooldyslexia.co.uk.

Unlock the door to a Grammar School Only £9.99/month

11+

Go To

WWW.

Your11Plus.com For

Flexi-school Dyslexia

Flexi-School Dyslexia is a unique provision offering primary-aged children access to specialist dyslexia teaching in small groups during the school day in a beautiful setting.

www.flexi-schooldyslexia.co.uk

07855471726 matt@algarsacademy.co.uk

English, Maths, Verbal and Non Verbal Reasoning Offers complete Tests, Answer Corrections and Explanations With Online Lessons Practice on your phone, tablet, ipad, PC or Mac

www.your11plus.com Developed by Experienced Tutors and Past Successful Candidates

‘believe in more’ www.saa.woodard.co.uk

Broadening horizons, challenging for excellence

St Augustine Academy, Oakwood Park, Maidstone, ME16 8AE 01622 752490

Come and join us for an Academy tour: Tours start in the week beginning 11th June on Tuesdays & Fridays from 9.00—11.00am Book your place on 01622 752490

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14 May - 1 July 2018

15

Education News

The Academy wants students to enjoy learning, to be creative and be enabled to make a positive contribution to society in whatever path they choose to take in life.

Nothing beats seeing the St Augustine experience first-hand.

Tours start in the week beginning 11 June on Tuesday and Friday between 9am and 11am. Call 01622 752 490 to book a place or visit the website, www.saa.woodard.co.uk to see more about Academy life.

What’s On

More What’s On

Your family diary for May, June and July

May Thurs 31 May

Wacky Weeds, Cuxton Library, Rochester, ME2 1EY 2.30-3.15pm. Join in this stories and craft session suitable for ages 4-10.

Booking is essential for this free event. For more information and to book call 01634 337 799.

An Introduction to Puppetry, The Marlowe, The Friars, Canterbury, CT1 2AS 1.30pm. Learn the basics of table top puppetry and have a go at creating your own stories with puppetry led

by Half A String. Ages 7-11. For more information and to book visit www. marlowetheatre.com

Live Bug Roadshow, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend, DA13 9PA 10am, 11.30am, 1.30pm and 3pm.

Are you brave enough to handle the giant bugs from the amazing Bug Roadshow? See and handle giant millipedes, stick insects, beetles, cockroaches, leaf insects and moths and learn some fascinating facts about them. For more information and to book visit www.millbrookgc. co.uk

Half Term Activities, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH 10.30–11.30am, 11.30am–12.30pm and 1-2pm. Enjoy a week of creative workshops with a cartoon/comic theme this Half Term. Today’s activity will be making a flip book. Ages 4-11.

For more information and to book visit www.maidstonemuseum.org

Create a Racket!, Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham, ME7 1UR 10.30am-3.30pm. Everybody loves music! People throughout history loved to dance to music and entertain people with it. Join us to learn some traditional Zulu beats and make your own musical instrument.

Charges apply. For more information visit www.re-museum.co.uk

Half Term Mono Printing, Huguenot Museum, Rochester, ME1 1LX 11.45am-3pm. Drop in and have fun making unique prints with this easy technique. For more information and to book visit www.huguenotmuseum. org

Paper Flower Crafts, Walderslade Village Library, Chatham, ME5 9LR 2.15-3.15pm. Children aged 4-10 will enjoy this fun stories and craft session. Booking is essential for the free event. For more information and to book call 01634 337 799.

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14 May - 1 July 2018

Family Day, Dover Museum, CT16 1PB 10.30am-3pm. Family days at Dover Museum are fun for children of all ages. There are a great range of themed days in the school holidays. All children do need to be accompanied by an adult during the activity. Today is: Animal Themed Day. Free. For more information visit www.dovermuseum. co.uk

June Fri 1 Jun

Discover Pond Dipping, Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve, Sevenoaks, TN13 3DH At this pond dipping session children will use special nets and scientific equipment to catch a variety of pond life then get help from our experts to identify the watery beetles and bugs they find. For more information and to book visit www.kentwildlifetrust. org.uk

The Day of a Napoleonic Soldier, Chatham Library, ME4 4TX 10.30am-12noon. An interactive travelling suitcase event showing ‘The day of a Napoleonic soldier’. Find out about the contents of a soldiers kitbag and make and taste a soldier’s biscuit (no cooking required). Ages 4-10.

Booking is essential for the free event.

For more information and to book call 01634 337 799.

Zulu Headdresses, Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham, ME7 1UR 10.30am-3.30pm. Zulu warriors were traditionally formed into regiments by age and identified by features such as the jewellery, headdress or by the shield they carried. Create your own Zulu headdresses with identifying features. For more information visit www.re-museum.co.uk

Bat Walk, Westgate Parks, Canterbury, CT1 2BQ 8.45pm. Join Kent Bat Group and discover the Park after dark! Take an evening walk around the Westgate Parks looking for bats and learn how to use a bat detector to identify the bat species you have seen or heard.

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

”

Ages 7+. Book on 07921 038 049.

For more information visit www. westgateparks.co.uk

Half Term Activities, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH 10.30–11.30am, 11.30am–12.30pm and 1-2pm. Enjoy a week of creative workshops with a cartoon/comic theme this Half Term. Today, become a Superhero by designing your own t-shirt with cape. Ages 4-11. For more information and to book visit www. maidstonemuseum.org

Fancy Petals, Hempstead Library, Gillingham, ME7 3QG 3-4pm. Join in this fun stories and craft session for children aged 4-10.

Booking is essential for this free event.

For more information and to book call 01634 337 799.

Discovery Event, Trosley Country Park, Meopham, DA13 0SG 1.30-3pm. Book on to this free event to explore, discover and identify the flowers and minibeasts at Trosley Country Park. Then create your very own minibeast or flower to take home whilst enjoying a hot chocolate and marshmallows at the campfire.

To book visit www.kentcountryparks. co.uk

Blooming Marvellous Seed Planting Workshop, Strood Library, Rochester, ME2 4TJ 2-3pm. Drop in to plant seeds and decorate pots to take home. Suitable for ages 4-10. For more information call 01634 337 799.

Sat 2 Jun

Open Air Cinema, Betteshanger Country Park, Deal, CT14 0BF Join in for a special sing-along screening of Golden Globe award winning musical, The Greatest Showman under the stars at Betteshanger. There will also be local food and drink in the festival village.

For more information and to buy tickets visit www.betteshanger-park. co.uk

Dog & Owners Fun Day, Park House Animal Sanctuary, Stelling Minnis CT4 6AN Boot fair from 8am, entertainment from 12noon. Go along and join in the fun day and help raise vital funds for the sanctuary. With live music, dog agility and training. If you can help at this event call 01303 862 622. For information visit www.lordwhisky. co.uk

Shadow Puppet Theatre, Rochester Library, ME1 1EW 2.15-3.15pm. Make stick shadow puppets, design a stage, and write a script (or even a script with a ‘twist’), based on classic fairy tales such as 3 Little Pigs, Red Riding Hood or Goldilocks and 3 Bears. Event is part of the Dickens Festival. Ages 4-10.

Free. To book call 01634 337 799.

Tales from the Dragonfly, The Marlowe, The Friars, Canterbury, CT1 2AS 11.30am, 1.30pm and 3pm. A selection of magical stories (different story each time) told with vim and vigour by vivacious storyteller and singer, Emily Hanna Grazebrook. Suitable for all ages. For more information and to book visit www.marlowetheatre.com

Sat 2 – Sun 3 Jun

Folkestone and Ashford Military Show, Sellindge Showground, Ashford, TN25 6HH 10am-4pm. Go along for a great day out for the family. Displays running both days alongside various exhibitors and trader stalls. For more information and to book visit www. folkestoneandashfordmilitaryshow. co.uk

Dickens Festival, Rochester High Street, ME1 1LX This family festival will be packed with Dickensian delight and Victorian intrigue. From costumed parades and street acts to competitions, readings and a fair, Rochester’s streets and green spaces will be awash with entertainment. For more information visit www.visitmedway.org/dickensfestival

Glorious Gardens Weekend, Penshurst Place, Tonbridge, TN11 8DG Join in for a special weekend of celebration where you can enjoy watching live painting, minibeast safaris and the beautiful colours of the season. For more information visit www.penshurstplace.com

Sun 3 Jun

Pedal for a Purpose 2018, Demelza House, Rook Lane, Sittingbourne, ME9 8DZ 9.30am. Cycle the family route of 10 miles through the stunning views of Kent. All money raised will enable Demelza Hospice Care for Children to provide vital care to seriously ill children and their families. For more information and to register visit www. demelza.org.uk

Tues 5 Jun

Where The Wild Things Are, Strood Library, Rochester, ME2 4TJ 4-5pm. Enjoy this special Where The Wild Things Are storytime, followed by a craft and musical wild rumpus.

Suitable for ages 4-10. For more information and to book call 01634 337 799.

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 18...

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Win The Big Book of 100 Outdoor Activities

There are times when keeping young children occupied and entertained can be a challenge, even for the most imaginative of parents. The Big Book of 100 Outdoor Activities provides parents with simple and quick activities and creative ideas to engage and entertain children as well as encourage them to be more curious about the world.

Activities are grouped into 8 handy sections - Wildlife Spotting, In the Garden, Messy Makes, Arts and Craft, Games, Rainy Day Activities, Outdoor Cooking and Music and Dressing Up. Each one is packed with things to do.

The Big Book of 100 Outdoor Activities is available online and from all good high street shops for £14.99. Primary Times have a copy of this book to give away to three lucky readers. For your chance to win, simply tell us how many handy sections the book is grouped into. See the bottom of the page for details on how to enter.

Win Copies of ‘You Are Awesome’

How many times have your children complained that they are no good at sport, can’t do maths or really struggle with exams? If children believe they can’t do something, the chances are they won’t try. But what if they really could get better at anything they turned their hand to? Matthew Syed is setting out to help children excel at just about anything they put their mind to.

The number one bestseller, ‘You Are Awesome’ inspires and empowers young readers with a toolkit for developing a growth mindset and finding the confidence to realise their potential. The first children’s book from the Times journalist, two-time Olympian and bestselling mindset author, Matthew Syed, takes the themes and principles of his award-winning adult novels and recasts them for a 9+ readership.

Primary Times have copies of this book to give away to five lucky readers. For your chance to win, simply tell us which newspaper Matthew Syed works for. For details of how to enter, see the bottom of the page.

Win a Family Pass to Cyclopark Set in over 100 acres of parkland and within easy access of the A2 and M25, Cyclopark offers families the perfect day out. With safe traffic free road circuits and 6km of mountain biking tracks, Cyclopark is a great place for families to enjoy themselves on their bikes in a safe and supportive environment. Bikes and safety equipment can be hired if you don’t want to bring your own.

There’s a huge 3000 square foot play park with lots of playground equipment to keep the younger visitors happy. In the Strider Zone, you can hire the latest strider bikes and explore the children’s play park and sensory garden.

Coming this summer is the new Cyclo-Town adventure play zone for the under 5’s complete with mini roads, roundabouts, fire station and garage. Afterwards relax in the Park Eat Café which has a wide selection of hot snacks and drinks.

Ten lucky Primary Times readers can win a family pass to Cyclopark. For your chance to win one of these great prizes, tell us how many kilometres of mountain bike track are there at Cyclopark? See below for details of how to enter.

Win Squeebles apps!!

KeyStageFun create exciting, colourful, educational apps for children.

Their range of 11 Squeebles literacy and maths apps are ideal for keeping children aged 5 -11 entertained over the holidays. Players are challenged to collect the mischievous Squeebles as they are quizzed on maths, spellings, telling the time and punctuation.

There are no in-app purchases, adverts or external links, while stats and reporting tools help parents and teachers keep track of children’s progress.

Designed to build confidence and make learning fun, Squeebles apps are ideal for encouraging and motivating children in readiness for SATS, 11+ and other tests.

Customers who have reviewed Squeebles times tables and spelling apps say: “Absolutely brilliant. I would recommend it to all parents trying to get their 8 year olds to learn their times tables”, and “Fantastic app that has revolutionised spelling practice in our house - no more tantrums.” Search for Squeebles on the app store on Android, iPad/iPhone, Kindle Fire & Mac OSX (limited) £1.99 - £3.99 For your chance to win one of three sets of the 11 Apps, send us your name and address following the instructions below.

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. Don’t forget to include the name of the competition. Alternatively email your answer and details to competitions@primarytimes.biz with the competion name as the subject by Friday 15 June If you are entering more than one competition you can put all entries in the same envelope.

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14 May - 1 July 2018

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Competitions

Competitions

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Your family diary for May, June and July 150th Birthday Celebration Summer Fete, Bredgar CEP School,

June Thurs 7 Jun

Bird Boogie, Luton Library, Chatham, ME5 7LA 2.45-3.30pm. Join in this stories and craft session suitable for ages 3-8.

Booking is essential for this free event. For more information and to book call 01634 337 799.

Thurs 7 – Sat 9 Jun

Wealden Times Midsummer Fair, Hole Park Garden, Cranbrook, TN17 4JA The fair will be showcasing over 250 handpicked exhibitors selling contemporary and vintage home wares, garden accessories, fabulous fashion and jewellery as well as artisan food and drink. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.wealdentimes.co.uk

Thurs 7 – Thurs 28 Jun

Kids for a Quid! Spa Valley Railway, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5QY (Thurs only) All accompanied children aged 2-15 travel for just £1. Break up your journey at Groombridge by taking your bikes and combining your trip with a ride along the Forest Way. To book tickets and for train times visit www. spavalleyrailway.co.uk

Fri 8 – Sun 10 Jun

Big Scooter Rally, Hop Farm, Tonbridge, TN12 6PY The Big 7 Scooter Rally is a weekend of live bands, DJ’s, vintage scooters, hot food, ridden custom show, market and more. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.thebig7scooterrally.com

Sat 9 Jun

Barn Dance, Kent Life, Maidstone, ME14 3AU 7pm. Join in for a Barn Dance, with live music from The Climax Ceilidh Band. Have fun, enjoy a bite from the BBQ and a drink from the licensed bar. It’s fun for all the family. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.kentlife.org.uk

Trottiscliffe Fete, Trottiscliffe Recreation Ground, West Malling, ME19 5EB

Go along for a fun-filled day to include live music, bbq, bouncy castle, traditional fete games, tombola, face painting and tattoos, balloon modelling and much more. For more information contact friendsofbredgarschool@ gmail.com

Flower Power Family Fun Day, Leybourne Lakes Country Park, Snodland, ME20 6AA

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static machinery display, pigs and bee keeping. For more information visit www.farmsunday.org

Open Garden, Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve, Sevenoaks, TN13 3DH

10.30am-3.30pm. There will be live music, flower identification walks, butterfly walks, flower related arts and crafts, face-painting, story-telling and more. Take along a picnic. For more information and to register visit www. medwayvalley.org

11am-3pm. Meet the volunteers and staff who care for the beautiful wildlife-friendly Elemental Gardens at the reserve. The head gardener and ‘Wild About Gardens’ team will be on hand to answer any questions and give tips and advice on how to make your own garden beautiful and wildlife-friendly. To book visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Sat 9 – Sun 10 Jun

Fri 15 – Sat 16 Jun

Enjoy a fusion of American-oriented motoring and motorsport with music, food and entertainment. There will be fantastic varied kids’ activities all weekend including Mini Monster Truck Mania, funfair, face painting and more.

For more information and to book visit www.brandshatch.co.uk

Take a train journey and enjoy a range of real ales and ciders on some departures. Food will be available on Friday evening and Saturday all day and into the evening. For more information visit www.kesr.org.uk

American Speedfest VI, Brands Hatch Circuit, Longfield, DA3 8NG

Sun 10 Jun

Open Farm Sunday, Nationwide Farms all over the country have an open day for you to go along and visit – some of which are not usually open to the public. There is a list for you to find ones that are taking place in your area. For more information visit www. farmsunday.org

Open Farm Sunday, Bore Place, Chiddingstone, TN8 7AR Enjoy family-friendly tours of the organic farm and market garden, tractor rides, an opportunity to meet the on-site cheesemakers using milk from the Bore Place cows, walks, face painting, an organic BBQ as well as an ice cream stall and Pimms bar.

For more information visit www. boreplace.org

Open Farm Sunday, Bardsley Farms, Staplehurst, TN12 0RW 10am-3pm. Go along on this special open day and enjoy trailer rides, a

12noon-4pm. Go along to help raise money to support Trottiscliffe C of E Primary School. There will be lots of great activities booked including: a miniature railway ride, a bouncy slide, a pod maze, tug of war, arts and crafts, 50+ stalls and lots more. For more information email chrisandjoparsons@gmail.com

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I saw your event in Primary Times....

Please mention you saw the event listed in Primary Times

14 May - 1 July 2018

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

CAMRA Real Ale & Cider Festival 2018, Kent and East Sussex Railway, Tenterden, TN30 6HE

Sat 16 June

Crafts, Vintage & Gift Fair, Alexander Centre, Faversham, ME13 8NY 9.30am–3pm. Go along and browse stalls exhibiting handicrafts, gift ideas and vintage wares. Free entry. For more information and to book visit www.thealexandercentre.com

Cartoon Workshops, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH These workshops introduce Gary Northfield’s internationally renowned book series, Julius Zebra, and are full of drawing tips for budding young cartoonists from one of Britain’s leading illustrators. And you’ll learn lots of Roman and Egyptian facts along the way! Ages 7-11. To book visit www.maidstonemuseum.org

Family Bushcraft Day, Belmont House and Gardens, Faversham, ME13 0HH 10am–4pm. The day includes learning different ways to create a flame, shelter building, campfire cooking, nature walks, plant identification and more. Age 7+. For more information and to book visit www.belmonthouse.org

Sat 16 – Sun 17 Jun

Deutsche Fest, Brands Hatch Circuit, Longfield, DA3 8NG Huge German vehicle displays, German food and music plus an Oktoberfest style beer tent will engross Brands Hatch all weekend.

For more information and to book visit www.brandshatch.co.uk

Fathers’ Day Weekend, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Say thank you to Dad this Fathers’ Day and spoil him with a memorable day out and meal. Children can create a card to give to Dad in free craft workshops. For more information visit www.hevercastle.co.uk

Fought for Freedom Military Show, Quex Park & Powell Cotton Museum, Birchington, CT7 0BH Sat 10am–6pm, Sun 10am–5pm.

Attractions include The Tigers Junior Motorcycle Display Team, massive display arena, see Scammells do what they were made for, have a ride in the APC and lots more. For more information visit www.quexpark. co.uk

A Weekend for Dad, Penshurst Place, Tonbridge, TN11 8DG Treat Dad to a musical performance as you are invited to listen to the hugely entertaining Junk Orchestra while they play on their musical junk-struments. The Garden Restaurant will be laying on a special menu for families to enjoy together.

For more information visit www. penshurstplace.com

Sun 17 Jun

Fathers’ Day Fun, Ightham Mote, Nr Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT 11am–4pm. Go along to a fun day out for all the family including fishing in the moat and beer tasting. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ ightham-mote

Classic Motor Show, Groombridge Place, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 9QG 10am-4.30pm. The show will feature 600+ classic vehicles, including a high performance classic display, arena displays and local dealerships.

There will also be a retro market, refreshments, children’s entertainers and more. For more information and to buy tickets visit www. groombridgeplace.com

Fathers’ Day Boat Making Challenge, Riverhill Himalayan Gardens, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RR 11am-4pm. Put Dad’s boat making skills to the test and build the ultimate vessel from scratch, then take to the waters and see if your master piece passes the sail test.

For more information visit www. riverhillgardens.co.uk

Fathers’ Day – Austin Seven Rally, Bewl Water Country Park, Lamberhurst, TN3 8JH A fantastic opportunity to see some of the finest examples of classic cars in the area. There will be an opportunity to discuss, purchase and examine a range of spare parts at

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 20...

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School Sports Day Sports Day Word Search B P R K Y U T A P E

J B R C A N I N G K

P S F A L C J G L Z

O T I R E G & D S S

O A E T R S A C K E

H C L K P E L V C L

A L D O G N I A R D

L E O S L A D E M R

U N S H G L L P B U

H S R E N I A R T H

Can you find all these words in the word search?

Egg&Spoon, Sack, Lanes, Medals, Hurdles, Tape, Trainers, Rain, Relay, HulaHoop, Track, Field I used to be frightened of doing the high jump... but then I got over it!

Answers Spot the Difference

lown’s

In Picture B the bunting is all one colour, the winners’ podium is a different colour, there are two more plants in the bottom right corner, there are two number 3 swimming lanes, the rope between lane 3 and 4 is missing and there is a swimmer in lane 6

Katie

Spot 6 Differences Why don’t you get many vegetarians doing track and field?

They don’t like the meets!

A

Why did the lettuce beat the tomato in the race - because the lettuce was a head and the tomato couldn’t ketchup!

B

How many high jumpers can jump higher than the Shard? They all can, the Shard can’t jump!

What do you get if you cross a skunk and a pair of tennis rackets?

Ping Pong!

Draw a picture (no larger than A4) or write a poem about anything to do with your School Sports Day 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 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 Closing date 15 June 2018.

Good Luck!

Maze Game

What’s On

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Your family diary for May, June and July

June the auto jumble. Enjoy a boat trip or take to the water on a rowing boat.

For more information visit www. bewlwater.co.uk

The Big Lunch, Payers Park, Folkestone, CT20 1EZ 12noon. As part of Open Quarter, take along your picnic blanket, some food to share and join in for the fourth Payers Park Big Lunch with live music from the awesome Nat and the Noise Brigade. Free.

For more information visit www. quarterhouse.co.uk

Wed 20 Jun

Jazz Evening, Godinton House and Gardens, Ashford, TN23 3BP 7-9pm. Enjoy a Jazz and Picnic Evening in the Walled Garden with the “Colrose Seven” in aid of St. John Ambulance. The band will swing into action at 7pm with a delightful mix of show tunes, novelty numbers and jazz classics. Booking required.

For more information visit www. godintonhouse.co.uk

Fri 22 – Sun 24 Jun

Black Deer Festival, Eridge Park, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 9JT Go on a journey into the world of Americana and country. Immerse yourselves in the community, music, food and storytelling of a culture like no other. Children can take part in tree-top climbing, adventure survival lessons, creative workshops and lots more. To buy tickets visit www. blackdeerfestival.com

Sat 23 Jun

Fawns Walk, Knole House, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP (Also 30 Jun) 5.30-6.30pm. Join the park walk team on this short walk to look out for ‘new additions’ to the landscape and deer herd. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/knole

Welcome Summer, Penshurst Place, Tonbridge, TN11 8DG 11.00am-4.00pm. Celebrate the start of the great British summer, and go along to make a few seasonal headdresses and crafts using

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 20

“

I saw your event in Primary Times....

Please mention you saw the event listed in Primary Times

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materials from around the gardens.

For more information visit www. penshurstplace.com

Summer Fayre, Meredale Independent Primary School, Rainham, ME8 8EB

11am-2pm. Enjoy the fun at the Friends of Meredale’s Summer Fayre with special guests Shikon Martial Arts. There’s a lot to do including a bouncy castle, Beat the Goalie, Hook the Duck, face painting, raffle, candy floss and more. For more information visit www.meredale.kent.sch.uk

Junior Aquathlon, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL The swim will take place in the moat surrounding this iconic Castle and the run will be across the stunning estate. For each child registered an accompanying adult can spectate the race for free and also enjoy the Castle, grounds and attractions for the whole day. Ages 8-14. For more information and to book visit www. leeds-castle.com

ArtsFest 2018, Nucleus Arts Centre, Chatham, ME4 4BP 11am-5pm. Go along and celebrate ‘The great together’ with free workshops, musician and dance performances. Plus there will be lots of Artistic Fun. For more information visit www.nucleusarts.com

Sat 23 – Sun 24 Jun

Hever’s Home Front, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Discover what life and work was like during the Second World War. Explore vintage stalls and learn to swing-dance.

Go in 1940s dress and round the day off with a traditional afternoon tea.

For more information and to book visit www.hevercastle.co.uk

Sun 24 Jun

Family Dog Show, Kent Life, Maidstone, ME14 3AU Take along your canine friend to take part in Kent Life’s Family Fun Dog Show. Classes include: Waggiest Tail, Best Child Handler, Fancy Dress and more. There will be the opportunity to enjoy all of your other favourite Kent Life activities on the day. For more information and to book visit www.kentlife.org.uk

14 May - 1 July 2018

Snapper the Shark Suitcase

Snapper the Shark is chomping at the bit to sink his teeth into your little diver’s favourite toys and games. This fearsome predator is the perfect Scooter Suitcase for the bravest boys and girls to take on the world. The funky case is cabin sized with a 25 litre capacity to store all your child’s essentials, but is small enough to fit into overhead compartments. The handlebars of the scooter doubles as a pull along handle for the suitcase, and the stable steering system means that your child can scoot in safety. There is an inner pocket and when not in use, the scooter folds away and locks in place. The Snapper the Shark Suitcase is perfect for your little adventurers and is available online for £69.99. For more information and to see the rest of the Scooter Suitcase range, visit www.zincflyte.com.

Stay at Hôtel Le Château Fort de Sedan Sedan in The French Ardennes has frequently been selected as one of the key locations for the filming of many films and TV series because its historic centre looks like 19th century Paris. Now it’s going to be the setting for the new BBC adaptation of Les Miserables. Founded in 1424, the town is situated around 125 miles from Paris, 50 miles north-east of Reims, and a little over 5 miles south of the border with Belgium.

The historic centre occupies a peninsula formed by a bend in the River Meuse.

Today, Sedan is best-known for possessing the largest fortress in Northern Europe.

One of the major tourist attractions of The French Ardennes, Sedan Fort, is open to the public, and contains the entire history of the fortress and town within a museum that is especially dedicated to the war of 1870, filled with a rich collection of Prussian helmets and the panoramic study of the Sedan battle by the Bavarian painter Ludwig Braun.The inner circle of the castle has been converted to a luxury four-star hotel the Hôtel Le Château Fort de Sedan, with 54 rooms and suites. Fortresses and castles have long played a major role in The French Ardennes which, itself, has been at the crossroads of history for centuries. On 20-21 May, the Castle of Sedan will host the twenty second edition of its annual Medieval Festival, an event that has grown year on year on year. Rooms are available from around £95 per night. For more information about the castle, please visit www.hotel-lechateaufort.fr/en/.

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 22...

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Family Travel Ideas Birdsong Barn, Sussex

Fancy a family retreat in the heart of the Sussex countryside? Birdsong Barn, located in Broad Oak & Brede, is perfect for getting the family up close and personal with nature. Surrounded by a wildflower meadow and edged by a stream, the property has recently been restored by local craftsmen, creating the beautiful home it is today.Think vaulted ceilings, bespoke oak staircases and floor to ceiling windows, while underfloor heating, a wood burning stove and a home cinema system make sure cosiness is in abundance. Don’t forget a camera, a huge number of wildfowl can be spotted on walks into the countryside, while a personal wildlife tour with the owner can be arranged for those who want to get even closer to their natural surroundings.

The cost for a family of four to stay seven days during high season is £1,465.Available to book through Original Cottages at www. originalcottages.co.uk or call 03332 020 899.

Around the World in 50 Ways

See the world from the comfort of your own home with an exciting new book from Lonely Planet Kids.Adventuring on tuk-tuks, sleds, steamboats and hot-air balloons,Around the World in 50 Ways lets readers travel the globe via road, rail, water or air. Once you’ve selected a route, you will learn amazing facts about your destination.

Imaginations will soar and curiosities ignite with the endless transportation possibilities – canoe, camel or cable car – you choose.

With over 20 possible routes, who knows where you’ll end up? Around the World in 50 Ways, perfect for ages 8-12, is available to purchase now, RRP £11.99.

Kids can also create their very own worlds with three exciting hands on books: Sticker World – Zoo, Sticker World – Theme Park and Sticker World – Museum.As chief planner, architect and builder, these books give children the chance to bring their constructions to life through colourful stickers, doodles and drawings, whether creating a watery wonderland for penguins, designing death-defying roller coasters, or filling an awesome dinosaur exhibition.The Sticker World books are perfect for 5-8 year olds and on sale now for £5.99 each.

Lonely Planet Kids excites and educates children about the amazing world around them. Start the adventure at www.lonelyplanet.com/kids.

A Truly Environmentally Friendly Holiday Experience

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Lapland

Santa Experience Day Trip

From £549 per adult

Departing December 2018

£499 per child

Low Deposit £50pp Join Newmarket Holidays for the most exciting, most magical and without doubt most unforgettable day ever.

Fly direct from your local airport to a still, white wilderness high above the Arctic Circle, where amongst the snowy forests, in a land inhabited by the ancient Sami people, with their husky dogs and herds of reindeer, as children of all ages know, there also lives, hidden from view, a Very Special Person.

Your Lapland Day Break price includes: · Return flights to Pajala in Swedish Lapland, North of the Arctic Circle · Search for Santa experience · Private Santa Meeting · A child’s token gift · Snowmobile Adventure · Reindeer Sleigh Ride

· Husky Dog Experience · Tobogganing, snowballing and snowman-making · Thermal Clothing · Lunch · In-flight catering · Return airport transfers to Santa’s Village · A Perfect Family Memory

See more details of this and other great offers at www.newmarket.travel/ptm For further information, to book by credit card or to request a brochure please call 03301 607703 and quote PTM

14 May - 1 July 2018

This holiday is operated by Newmarket Promotions Ltd - ABTA V787X

Working to protect the environment has never had a higher profile than in 2018. The educational and wellbeing sectors are also working hard to get people out into nature. In tourism, glamping is meeting the rising demand from guests wanting a more authentic and environmentally friendly experience. This desire is pushing operators to really practice what they preach in terms of offering a green holiday.

Simon Thomason, Owner of Glisten Glamping in the South of France explained to the Primary Times how this is being brought to life, “In terms of the guest experience one of the key objectives has to be to enable each guest to really connect with the environment. To accomplish this, the accommodation must integrate with the natural habitat. This means we will not always use the same accommodation across all of our sites. The impact of the accommodation on the environment of each location should be minimal, and is fabricated in such a way that it encourages recycling and re-use after life. We’ve always strived to look at the way we do business in a sustainable way. Matt Hocking, our creative sustainable consultant who led the design team for the Eden Project for three years, helps our landowners to put sustainability at the heart of their business.”

Looking up at the night sky, breathing in fresh air and cooking on open outdoor stoves is all part of great glamping. Add to that hammock beds for the children, walks and outdoor games - there is no better way to come back from a holiday refreshed and feeling connected to the world.

Experience luxury Glisten Glamping in France, for more information visit www.glistencamping.com

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Your family diary for May, June and July

June The Friars Summer Fayre, Aylesford Priory, ME20 7BX 11am-4.30pm. Be thrilled by Vander Super Heroes Wheel of Death, an adrenalin fuelled stunt display on rotating wheels reaching to 50ft.

Be enthralled by Mr. Alexander’s Travelling Show - an energetic blend of magic, juggling, unicycling, acrobalance and illusion suitable for all ages and lots, lots more! For more information visit www.thefriars.org. uk

Tues 26 Jun

Photo Day, Wildwood Trust, Herne Bay, CT6 7LQ 10am–4.30pm. An opportunity to take close-up photos of the animals with the resident photographer Dave Butcher. Different animals will be photographed across the day, with animal feeds for the more elusive ones to help you get close views. For more information and to book visit www.wildwoodtrust.org

Sat 30 Jun

Friends of Westgate Parks Open Day, Westgate Parks, Canterbury, CT1 2BQ From 10am. A day of outdoor entertainment for all the family to enjoy in Canterbury’s beautiful Westgate Gardens and Toddler’s Cove including: music, games and activities. Free entry. For more information visit www.westgateparks. co.uk

Fossil Roadshow, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH 10am-3pm. Take along your fossils to be identified by the Medway Fossil & Mineral Society. Handle amazing fossils, play fossil games and have your face painted ammonite-style.

Free entry. For more information visit www.maidstonemuseum.org

Family Arts Award Day, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH 10am-4pm. Take the opportunity to gain a ‘Discover Arts Award’.

Investigate different art forms, find out about dinosaurs and fossils, create a piece of art and share it, all in one day. For more information and to book visit www. maidstonemuseum.org

Sat 30 Jun – Sun 1 Jul

Great Kent Chilli Festival, Hole Park Garden, Cranbrook, TN17 4JA This is sure to be a great day out for chilli enthusiasts, food lovers and families. Children will enjoy the inflatable slides, mini carousel, coconut shy, face painting and bouncy castles. For more information and to buy tickets visit www. greatkentchillifestival.co.uk

Fire Engine Rally, Lullingstone Castle, Dartford, DA4 0JA 11am-5pm. A spectacular showcase of fire-fighting history with over 20 fire engines and carts from the Victorian and the Edwardian periods right up to the present day organised by the Fire Service Preservation Group South East Branch. For more information visit www. lullingstonecastle.co.uk

Legends of Brands Hatch Superfix, Brands Hatch Circuit, Longfield, DA3 8NG This sumptuous summer spectacular will pay tribute to the heroes of yesteryear, with all kinds of cars from the past five decades of motor racing set to star. For more information and to book visit www.brandshatch.co.uk

Sat 30 Jun – Sun 2 Sep

Around the World Trail, Chartwell, Westerham, TN16 1PS Join Winston and Clementine on a tour of the world in this family fun trail at Chartwell. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell

Ant Trail, Emmetts Garden Sevenoaks, TN14 6BA 10am–4pm. Meet Amet the ant’s family of friendly ants and discover their favourite trees on this self-led family trail, around the gardens at Emmetts. Charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/emmetts-garden

Armed Forces Day, Penshurst Place, Tonbridge, TN11 8DG 11am-5pm. In celebration of our Armed Forces and the centenary of the end of WWI, Hands on History will be taking part, along with a selection of memorabilia and weapons and battles and wars across the ages. For more information visit www.penshurstplace.com

22

14 May - 1 July 2018

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

July

Sun 1 Jul

”

NGS Open Garden Day, Belmont House and Gardens, Faversham, ME13 0HH

12noon–5pm. Enjoy a walk around the beautiful garden. The tea room will be open from 12noon serving delicious homemade cakes and cream teas. For more information visit www.belmont-house.org

Summer Vintage Fair, Chiddingstone Castle, TN8 7AD 11am-4.30pm.You are invited to enjoy a festival of vintage for all the family in Chiddingstone Castle’s grounds. For more information visit www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk

Armed Forces Community Fun Day, The Leas Cliff Hall, CT20 2XL 11am-4.30pm. An action packed day to celebrate and honour those that serve and have served in the Armed Forces with lots of arena displays, band performances, small children’s funfair, Tug of War – Cadets’ Competition and much more.

For more information visit www. folkestonetc.kentparishes.gov.uk

Run or Dye, Penshurst Place, Tonbridge, TN11 8DG Run or Dye is a chance to experience THE most colour-filled day with family and friends to celebrate friendship, fitness, and fun.

Penshurst Place offers an iconic venue and beautiful course to enjoy a walk, run or dance while being covered in huge amounts of colour.

For more information visit www. runordye.co.uk

Rhythm ‘n’ Blues, Quex Park & Powell Cotton Museum, Birchington, CT7 0BH 11am-5.30pm. Take along your comfy chairs, rugs and a picnic and relax in the stunning surroundings of Quex Gardens. With entertainment provided by incredible local musicians and good company, what more could you want for a lazy Sunday? For more information visit www.quexpark. co.uk

Fri 6 - Sun 8 Jul

Kent County Show 2018, Kent Showground, Maidstone, ME14 3JF 8am-6pm. A hands-on show with access to the cattle marquee, shire stables on site, flower and woodland craft workshops, cookery demonstrations, more live music. For more information and to book visit www.kentshowground.co.uk

Sat 7 Jul

Medieval Pageant, Various Locations in Canterbury Go along to this colourful parade featuring historical characters, local schools and community and reenactment groups, giants, music and medieval mayhem. From near the Westgate Towers at 11am to the Marlowe Theatre at around 12.30pm this is a must see event.

For more information visit www. canterburymedievalpageant.co.uk

National Meadows Day, Nationwide The vision is for people to celebrate National Meadows Day in their own city, village, parish, wildlife reserve, allotment or farm all over the UK. For more information visit www. magnificentmeadows.org.uk

Sat 7 – Sun 8 Jul

Panasonic Roadshow, Knole House, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP 10am–4pm. Borrow a camera and receive tips from the Panasonic team on how to take your best photo and join a guided photo walk. Take your photos home as a memory of the day. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org. uk/knole

Sat 7 Jul – Sun 15 Jul

Hythe Festival of Arts and Heritage 2018, Various Locations The festival kicks off with a colourful parade in the High Street followed by a two day extravaganza of fun on the Green with music, dancing, drama, stalls to browse and displays to enjoy. There will be an Art Trail, Canal Concert and much more. For more information visit www.hythefestival.co.uk

Sat 7 Jul – Sun 2 Sep

Discworld & Beyond, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH Paul Kidby is best known as the illustrator of Terry Pratchett’s Discworld books. This exhibition showcases the wonderful book covers and illustrations for Pratchett’s novels, including favourite characters like Rincewind, the Wee Free Men and of course, Death! To book visit www. maidstonemuseum.org

Sat 14 Jul

Big Day Out, Mote Park, Maidstone, ME15 7RN Go along to this family-friendly, multigenre music festival. A fantastic line-up including Alexandra Burke and more.

The Kids Zone includes superheroes, circus school, archery and interactive workshops. Plus Paw Patrol’s Rubble and Peter Rabbit will make appearances throughout the day. For more information visit www.bigdayoutfestival. com Our next copy deadline is

15 June 2018.

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Emilia Paulauskaite aged 6

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by Alesha Dixon are on Girl ing in the Park. Signed copies of Lightn Steve Tibbs and Lola Tizzard all won tickets to Paws and -Addo Anim Aymen Shehzad, Racheal their way to Brooke Robinson, Jodie Beckingham, If you would like to see Encounter. Marlowe Theatre tickets were Cat Big our won ell Blund el Morgan Odwell. Samu a Marth and Riley tt your work displayed Scarle o, Sabid d Edwar won by Joshua Tiley. Penelope Clayton, Finley Giles, ng Drawi Annie our won 6 here then just send us a aged e uskait Paula Cox won Sharks Trump Card Games. Emilia the older group. Well for it won 10 aged n Wilso drawing, poem, riddles, Jiana and group er Competition for the young page. this on work art the jokes or short story and enjoy and rs winne done to all our

we'll do our very best to include it. Send it to: Good Work Page Primary Times 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG

This picture is about my family and I going to the park. Not just any kind of park, an Easter park! When they had stepped out, from the corner of their eyes, they couldn't believe it, they could see snow! They picked up balls and has a snowďŹ ght and they all had fun.

Thank you to Precious Nzolameso for her Panda Popsicle Wonderland drawing, to Lola Z for her cute princess, to Hanisga Thayalan for her excellent drawing of fruit and Ola Ukoha for her drawing and description of her family.

We love seeing your work so do please keep sending it to us.

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