South East London February Half Term 2018 Primary Times

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IDE U NG O T’S A WH

for families with primary aged children

in South East London

February Half Term Edition • Issue 111 • 29 January - 18 March 2018

FREE OPEN DAY

Saturday 3rd March at PQA Greenwich!

See page 5 for more details Visit www.pqacademy.com or call FREEPHONE 0800 531 6282

OF BEING AMAZING

The Best Family Guide to What’s On

Film Preview Guide Disney Pixar’s Coco

Coco is about a 12-year-old boy with big dreams. Miguel is an aspiring singer and self-taught guitarist who dreams of following in the footsteps of his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz, the most famous musician in the history of Mexico. However, Miguel’s family forbids music.When Miguel unearths a secret from his family’s past—a connection to Ernesto de la Cruz, he rushes to share the news with his family, thinking it will clear the way for him to be a musician.To his surprise, it only makes matters worse.

As events unfold on Mexico’s ‘Day of the Dead’, Miguel is forced to team up with a scrappy, streetwise skeleton named Héctor and they set out to find Ernesto de la Cruz, who they believe holds the key to Miguel’s baffling and decidedly unmusical family history.

Disney Pixar’s Coco is in cinemas now.

Photo credit: 2017 Disney.Pixar

Early Man

Early Man is the new prehistoric comedy adventure from director Nick Park and Aardman, the creators of Wallace and Gromit and Shaun the Sheep. Shot in Aardman’s own distinctive style, the film will take audiences on an extraordinary journey into an exciting new world unleashing an unforgettable tribe of unique and funny new characters.

Set at the dawn of time, when prehistoric creatures roamed the Earth, Early Man tells the story of courageous caveman hero Dug, voiced by Eddie Redmayne, and his best friend Hognob as they unite his tribe against a mighty enemy, Lord Nooth and his Bronze Age City, to save their home.

Leading Dug’s tribe of lovable misfits is Chief Bobnar who is joined

by Treebor, Magma, Asbo, Barry, Gravelle, Eemak and Grubup.

Maisie Williams voices Goona, the gallant rebel who befriends Dug and helps the tribe in their battle to beat the Bronze Age. Also joining the stellar cast is Rob Brydon, who voices the Message Bird - an ingenious Bronze Age communication device. Catch Early Man in cinemas now.

Tad the Lost Explorer and the Secret of King Midas

After Sara Lavroff discovers one of the three gold rings from King Midas’ necklace, proving that this ruler who turned everything he touched into gold really did exist,Tadeo, the most awkward explorer, travels to Las Vegas to join his friend at the exhibition where this incredible archaeological discovery will be revealed for the first time ever.Tadeo and Sara’s happy reunion turns sour when villain, Jack Rackham, and his crew of bandits steal the jewel and kidnap the young archaeologist, knowing full well that whoever puts the three rings from King Midas’ necklace back together again will inherit his power and immense wealth.

Tadeo will have to be clever in order to save Sara and destroy Rackham’s wicked plans.

His travels will take him halfway around the world, through Spain, Greece and Turkey, alongside his friends the Mummy, Belzoni the parrot, his dog Jeff and the latest cast of characters to join the adventure.

Tad the Lost Explorer will be in cinemas from 9 February.

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29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Monster Family

Based on David Safier’s best-selling novel, Monster Family follows the very unhappy Wishbone clan.With a struggling bookshop, an overworked husband and two misunderstood teenagers, Emma is at her wit’s end trying to be the perfect mom to a family who are constantly at each other’s throats. In an attempt to reconnect the family, Emma drags the clan to a costume party, but the plan backfires when they are cursed by an evil witch and transformed into their own monstrous costumes.The Wishbone family must pull together to battle real-life beasts, reverse the curse and prove that even a vampire, a mummy, a werewolf and Frankenstein’s monster can eventually form one big happy family. When the Wishbones snap, only love can stitch them back together. Emma has to fight to keep her Monster Family together and uncover the secret of their curse, eventually leading them to the Prince of Darkness himself, Dracula. Featuring the voices of Catherine Tate and Nick Frost, watch a monster family become human again.This family blockbuster comes to cinemas on 2 March.

The Highway Rat

From the creators of The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom and Stick Man,The Highway Rat will be available on DVD from 5 February. The beautifully animated film seen on BBC One this Christmas is a swashbuckling adventure of bandits and biscuits based on the richly imaginative book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler.The Highway Rat tells the tale of a ravenous rat who craves buns, biscuits and all things sweet.Tearing along the highway, he searches for sugary treats to steal until his sweet tooth leads him to a sticky end.

The sweetly satisfying animation features the voice talents of an all-star, home grown cast including David Tennant, Rob Brydon, Frances De La Tour and Tom Hollander.An instant classic the whole family can enjoy,The Highway Rat will be available from Amazon and other online stores.

Win Jungle Bunch Goodies & DVD Join in the jungle adventure with Maurice and his friends by winning a whole host of fun merchandise including Jungle Bunch badges, t-shirts, a safari hat and binoculars. One lucky winner will win all this as well as The Jungle Bunch on DVD, and four runners up can also win the DVD. Maurice may look like an emperor penguin but he’s a real tiger inside. Raised by a tigress, he’s the clumsiest Kung-Fu master ever. Along with his friends, the Jungle Bunch, he intends to maintain order and justice in the jungle, just as his mother did before him. But, Igor, an evil koala, wants to destroy the jungle once and for all with help from his army of silly baboons. The Jungle Bunch is out on Digital and DVD now!

To be in with the chance of winning, tell us what kind of animal the evil Igor is? Send your answer to us along with your name, age, address, school and phone number to

The Jungle Bunch Competition, Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London SE12 8LG or email your answer together with your details to competitions@primarytimes.biz with ‘The Jungle Bunch’ as the subject by Friday 2 March.

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Dear Readers

r though ppy Christmas and New Yea I hope you all had a very Ha solutions Re r Yea w Ne r you are . How it seems a while ago now to start but my of them? My diet has yet going? Have you kept any at least I can so g rkin wo is n er more ofte resolution on seeing my sist tick one off. really starting year it looks like events are After a quiet start to the new nds of usa tho e you look through the rs trying to happen so do make sur hou nd spe y The iam have found. the let listings that Hayley and Mir do ase and things to do so ple es. to discover places to go Tim ry ma Pri read about them in organisers know that you ple of months are forward to over the next cou Some of the things to look cake is lemon pan ite our y 13 February. My fav Pancake Day on Tuesda lentine’s Day on ? Then the next day is Va and sugar, what do you like to get chocolates or Will you be lucky enough Wednesday 14 February.

February. 2018 is 16 ay w Year is on Frid flowers? Then Chinese Ne to our Chinese án jíxiáng or the Year of the Dog. Gôuni Day is on r’s the Dog year. Finally Mo readers - Good luck for this appreciated ays alw is t sen pre ade card or Sunday 11 March. A handm so get drawing now! s so do look out e fantastic competition As always we have som they close. We e you enter them before for them and make sur give us your n’t do won them if you can’t let you know you’ve too! If you want m the e lud inc sure you contact details so make d them in the sen t competition then jus to enter more than one tely. Please ara sep m the d n’t have to sen though. same envelope, you do ries r ent the competition on you do include the name of rch so enjoy ter magazine on 19 Ma We’ll be back with our Eas the next half term.

Peter and the Primary

Times team

Contents

inside this issue....

News................................................... 4 What’s On Guide................................. 6 Family Theatre.................................... 9 Whatever the Weather............................12 Time to Party........................................ 16 Education News................................. 18 Out of School Activities...................... 21 All About You!.................................... 31

The Primary Times Team:

Primary Times in South East London 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG

Primary Times in SE London distributes more than 51,000 copies seven times a year and is part of a national network distributing more than 2.7 million copies in 59 regions across the UK & Ireland Primary Times is now printed on recycled paper throughout, from 100% post-consumer Recycle 0% d 10 waste, made in Europe by a paper mill that is certified SC and supports F E c ola b el P E responsible forestry.

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Tel: 020 8318 0400 Email: office@primarytimes.biz Website: www.primarytimes.co.uk Twitter: @PT_LondonSandE Instagram: @primarytimesse

... the UK’s biggest free ‘What’s On’ magazine for parents.

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Publishing Editor: Peter Watson Sales: Sarah-Jane Chapple, Clarry Frewin, Gill Pearce & Andrew Langridge Listings: Hayley Hughes & Miriam Theobald Editorial: Anna Stringer & Dunya Simões Production: Alison Watson Office Manager: Chris Blower Administrators: Claire Wood & Tina Love Proof Reader: Catherine Draisey Social Media: Rachel Benson

Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in primary and junior schools throughout the boroughs of Bexley, Bromley and Greenwich. Its aims are to inform families and children of current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses and attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or joining in the competitions which we run. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically based material whatsoever. We also undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best interests of young children.

The opinions expressed in either the editorial or advertisements within this publication are not necessarily those held by the editor or publisher. While we take great care with the compilation of information within this magazine, neither the editor nor publisher will accept any liability for the accuracy of the editorial or advertising contained within the publication. We welcome listings being sent to us for inclusion in our What’s On section. Free listings are dependent on available space and we cannot guarantee to print all the listings we are sent. Please send them to listings@primarytimes.biz. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in the boroughs of Bexley, Bromley and Greenwich 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 South East London is operated under franchise licence.

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29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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News

An International Dining Experience

Chrysalis Care Independent Fostering Agency

Chrysalis Care recently celebrated 20 years of providing safe and nurturing foster homes for children and young people across London, Kent, Essex, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire.

Chrysalis Care was founded by former foster carers, Lynda and Lou Boden in 1997. Their aim was to transform the lives of children and young people by providing foster care of the highest quality. Chrysalis Care have developed a family culture, maintaining an intimacy which spans the whole organisation, with two of the Boden daughters directing the company and many foster carers, approved in those early days, still actively fostering with Chrysalis Care.

If you are already fostering, are thinking of fostering, or would like to learn more about becoming a foster carer, Chrysalis want to hear from you. After more than 20 years, they have lots of expertise to share. As a Chrysalis Care foster carer, you receive 24 hour 365 days a year support, monthly supervision with a qualified social worker, access to online and offline training and support from Chrysalis’ own Children’s Services Department.You will become part of a valuable team of foster carers, empowered to develop the skills and knowledge to become outstanding foster carers for children and young people aged 0-18 years from a range of backgrounds and circumstances.

To find out more, please contact Chrysalis Care to speak with one of their knowledgeable staff members on 020 8298 2800, by emailing info@chrysaliscare.org or by visiting www.chrysaliscarefostering.org.

Creating Thrills and Skills for Life The Pauline Quirke Academy is a weekend performing arts school for 4-18 year olds. Their newest academy is opening in Greenwich on Saturday 3 March.

Students spend three hours with the academy rotating through hour long sessions in Comedy and Drama, Musical Theatre and Film and Television. PQA’s specialist modules, packed full of tips that Pauline has learnt from over 50 years in the business, will teach you everything you need to know to act, sing, dance or direct like a professional. By working with people the academy believes are outstanding in their field, PQA aim to provide students with a constantly evolving experience - something that is fresh, exciting and up to date.

PQA believe in inspiring and rewarding students, so offer free group Trinity exams, masterclasses, cinema screenings, the chance to join their exclusive agency, Quirky Kidz, and the opportunity to perform in London’s West End. PQA Greenwich is holding a free open day on Saturday 3 March from 9.45am–1pm at The John Roan, Westcombe Park Road, Greenwich, London SE3 7QR. They are also now enrolling in Bromley. For more information, visit www.pqacademy.com or call 08005 316 282.

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29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

If you love great food and don’t want to spend a fortune, you’ll love JRC Buffet. With hundreds of freshly prepared dishes from all over the world, you’ll find all your old favourites as well as new dishes for you to enjoy.

Families love visiting JRC Buffet as there’s something for everyone – it’s also a great opportunity for parents to encourage their children to be adventurous and try new flavours. Even the fussiest eater will find new dishes they’ll love. With a wide selection of Live Cooking Stations, where expert chefs prepare dishes right in front of your eyes, it’s a dining experience like no other.

If you aren’t too full from trying all the main dishes, you will love the wide selection of mouth-watering desserts, all beautifully presented.

Visitors young and old love dipping marshmallows and fresh fruit into the milk chocolate fountain.

This year the selection at JRC gets even better, as there are even more dishes available at the European section. There are also more dishes added for festivals throughout the year. For example, at Chinese New Year you’ll find delicious Chinese buns and dumplings.

Don’t forget you can also enjoy as much food as you like for one set price. To hear about the latest news and offers, visit www.jrc-globalbuffet. com and sign up to the newsletter.

My First Ballet: Swan Lake

Enjoy one of the most famous ballets of all time with your family, in this beautifully adapted new version for children aged three upwards. The evil magician Rothbart has turned the beautiful princess Odette into a swan; only at night can she return to human form. Will Prince Siegfried save her or will he fall for Rothbart’s sorcery?

With a narrator to help the young audience follow the story, and a shortened version of Tchaikovsky’s wonderful music, this is the perfect introduction to the magic of ballet, and a fantastic family day out.

This unique collaboration between English National Ballet and English National Ballet School is performed by second year students of English National Ballet School.

My First Ballet: Swan Lake is at Churchill Theatre, Bromley from Saturday 14 – Sunday 15 April. Book your tickets now at www. churchilltheatre.co.uk or call 020 3285 6000.

Adventures in Science around the Kitchen Table

Released just in time for British Science Week (9-18 March), Mr Shaha’s Recipes for Wonder is jam packed full of science activities for kids aged 5-9 and their families to do at home. Described by Stephen Fry as “very special”, Mr Shaha’s Recipes for Wonder gives clear, step-by-step instructions for over 15 experiments. All you need are a few simple items from your kitchen cupboards ― and the power of curiosity – and you can turn a rainy day at home or a walk in the park into a chance to experiment. Illustrated throughout by Emily Robertson, this new book is an accessible and appealing way for parents and kids to engage with science - whatever their confidence levels.

This is the first picture book by science communicator, teacher, author and dad, Alom Shaha. The Guardian describes Alom as “gentle and persuasive, the type of teacher you would have loved to have had educate you”. Alom has partnered with the BBC, The Science Museum and others to help educate young people about science. Find out more and pre-order Mr Shaha’s Recipes for Wonder at www.alomshaha.com.

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THE PAULINE QUIRKE

ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS

News

DRIVERS NEEDED FOR BUSY CIRCUIT. CALL NOW FOR DETAILS

IS ENROLLING NOW IN GREENWICH!

Book Buzz Bexley Libraries have just the thing to brighten up those dreary winter days. Book Buzz (the first ever Bexley Literary Festival) will be held from Saturday 10 February to Saturday 24 February. There will be a wide range of free events and activities for all ages – adults, children, teens and families. It will be especially easy to keep the children entertained during February Half -Term with a huge range of free events and activities including storytellers, theatre groups, dance and drama workshops and masterclasses on comic arts. Programme highlights include visits from the author of “Beetle Boy”, M.G. Leonard, and Kev Sutherland, writer and artist for The Beano, Marvel and Doctor Who. The Freshwater Theatre Group will be performing several of their most popular shows, including Anansi Stories, an Early Year’s Story Hunt and a Carnival of Stories. Julie Hayes will be leading dance workshops which have been inspired by the magic of Harry Potter and drama workshops led by the Helen O’Grady Drama Academy will take place in several libraries. All libraries will be holding Harry Potter activities and “Where’s Wally?” hunts. They are also expecting special guests, The Gruffalo, Elmer and Peter Rabbit, to visit during the festival. Don’t forget to bring your camera.

For adults, there will be lots of free talks by best-selling authors plus poetry workshops, creative writing workshops, quizzes and competitions.

There’s a lot more to look forward to in this exciting programme, so as we head towards February and Book Buzz, look out for more information and details of how to book at www.bexley.gov.uk/libraries.

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Outstanding performing arts tuition for 4 - 18 year olds.

FREE OPEN DAY SATURDAY 3RD MARCH

Starts 9.45am Ends 1pm Find us at The John Roan, Westcombe Park Road, Greenwich, London, SE3 7QR FREEPHONE 0800 531 6282 Visit www.pqacademy.com

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

OF BEING AMAZING

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What’s On Your family diary for February and March Ongoing Become the Greatest Explorer, National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, SE10 9NF Take one of the museum’s tablet devices and set sail across The Great Map to explore distant lands and discover treasures from around the world. Free. For times and more information visit www.rmg.co.uk/ national-maritime-museum

Every Sat

Framed Film Club, Barbican Centre, EC2Y 8DS

Family audiences can enjoy the latest and greatest films from all over the world, including special shorts programmes. On the last Sat of every month young audience members can explore film through all of the art forms with high-quality participatory arts activities. To book visit www. barbican.org.uk

Until 9 Feb

Life in the Medieval Palace, Tower of London, EC3N 4AB

11am and 1.30pm. Travel back to 1299 and enter the Medieval palace of King Edward I, Hammer of the Scots, in this live performance drama.

Included in palace admission. For more information visit www.hrp.org. uk/tower-of-london

Space Safari, Royal Observatory Greenwich, SE10 8XJ

(Selected dates) Follow the adventures of Ted as he searches the Solar System for the great big bear in the sky, visiting the Sun, Moon and Planets. Ages 0-7. Charges apply. For times, more information and to book visit www.rmg.co.uk

Meet the Neighbours, Royal Observatory Greenwich, SE10 8XJ

(Selected dates) Meet our neighbours in space in this entertaining, interactive show where you can decide which planets to visit. Ages 5+. Charges apply. For times, more information and to book visit www. rmg.co.uk

Fri 2 – Sat 3 Feb

An Evening with the Stars, Royal Observatory Greenwich, SE10 8XJ The popular after dark experience at the Royal Observatory Greenwich includes a show in London’s only public planetarium and the chance to look through the gigantic Great Equatorial Telescope at what the night sky has to offer. Ages 7+. To book visit www.rmg.co.uk/royalobservatory

February Thurs 1 – Wed 28 Feb

The Sky Tonight, Royal Observatory Greenwich, SE10 8XJ

(Selected dates) A show presented by an astronomer who takes visitors on a tour of what can be seen in the night sky on the day of their visit and the months ahead. The journey takes in stars, planets and moons. Ages 5+.

For times, more information and to book visit www.rmg.co.uk

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Sat 3 Feb

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Character Encounters, National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, SE10 9NF

(Also 10, 17 and 24 Feb) 12noon, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. Meet a character from the past and take part in an exciting performance that will bring maritime history to life. Ages 6+.

Free. For more information visit www.rmg.co.uk/national-maritimemuseum

Sat 3 – Sun 4 Feb

Zodiac Zoo, Cutty Sark, Greenwich, SE10 9HT

11.30am-1.30pm and 2-4pm. Learn how to roll, loop, curl and twist paper in this Chinese Zodiac-themed paper quilling workshop to celebrate Chinese New Year. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.rmg.co.uk/cutty-sark

Sun 4 Feb 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

Discover Sundays, National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, SE10 9NF

(Also 11, 18 and 25 Feb) 11.30am1.30pm and 2-4pm. Be inspired by our maritime past and explore your personal connections to the sea. Ask staff where the activity is on the day.

For more information visit www.rmg. co.uk/national-maritime-museum

Wed 7 – Sun 18 Feb

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

Go along for 12 days of jam-packed Half Term fun in a festival run by kids for kids. Enjoy the best children’s theatre, literature and music, with plenty of workshops and free activities for children up to 12 years old. To view the programme of events visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Fri 9 Feb

Star Gazing, Down House, Downe, BR6 7JT

7pm. In this ‘introduction to astronomy’ hear expert talks and top tips, before looking through our telescopes to explore the night sky and gaze among the stars.

Book on 03703 331 181. For more information visit www.englishheritage.org.uk

Sat 10 Feb

Free Face Painting, Central Library, Bexleyheath, DA6 7HJ

10am-3pm. Go along and join in the fun at the Central Library and have your face painted by professional artists. There will also be character meet and greets during the day and a circus skills workshop 1-4pm. Part of the Book Buzz Literary Festival. For more information visit www.bexley. gov.uk/libraries

Out at Sea, National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, SE10 9NF

11am-4.30pm. Everyone is welcome at this annual festival celebrating LGBT history. Take part in interactive workshops, meet a cross-dressing pirate and discover a treasure trove of activities for all the family to enjoy.

Free. For more information visit www.rmg.co.uk/national-maritimemuseum

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 8...

Your empty beds could be earning you EXTRA MONEY Have you thought about hosting foreign students for short stays? Groups visit throughout the year and pay rates are good. The children arrive at their meeting point at around 6.00pm for their evening meal. In the morning, after their breakfast, they go back to their coach between 8.00 and 8.30am. They then spend the day out with their teachers sightseeing in London and come back to you in the evening - hosts will be provided with a full programme of arrival and departure times.

Students must be dropped off every morning and picked up every evening and you will need your own transport unless you live within walking distance of the meeting point. Students can be met at : ELTHAM (station); WELLING (behind the Nag’s Head) PLUMSTEAD (Old Mill Road on Plumstead Common) THAMESMEAD (Carlisle Road) London or BEXLEYHEATH (Albion Road car park). You choose the area that suits you!

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For more details contact OPEN DOORS UK ELTHAM on 020 8294 8910 (Mon-Fri 10.00am-4.00pm) 24-hour answerphone 29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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Eggs-perience Easter at JRC Global Buffet...

An incredible dining experience with live cooking stations, hundreds of dishes from around the world, and you can enjoy as much as you like for one price!

This is five star dining for a price you can afford!

PLUS KIDS EAT FOR £1 ALL YEAR ROUND*!

Book your table now at www.jrc-globalbuffet.com and check out our latest offers and events!

JRCGlobalBuffet

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Review us on TripAdvisor

*See website for T&Cs.

Chocolate Orange Brownies

Get tucked into original recipes from some of your favourite sport and entertainment stars in a new book put together by triathlete coach Helen Murray.Try the Murray family’s legendary shortbread recipe, enjoy protein muffins from Alec Stewart, former England cricket captain and taste delicious gooey chocolate crispy squares, with an indulgent recipe from BBC Radio 5 Live presenter Rachel Burden.

Try this delicious recipe for yummy Chocolate Orange Brownies by Lucy Andrews. It’s pretty simple but you should make sure you have an adult with you especially when you’re using the hot oven.

Method:

Ingredients: 200g butter 200g dark chocolate Zest of 1 large orange 4 large eggs 350g caster sugar 100g plain flour (also works with gluten free flour) 50g cocoa powder 1 Terry’s Chocolate Orange broken into pieces (milk or dark)

These delicious Chocolate Orange Brownies are just one of the many recipes for you to discover in the new book, Fuelled by More Cake. Proceeds from the book will raise money for several charities including Young Epilepsy, a national charity which supports children and young people aged 25 and under with epilepsy and associated conditions, as well as their families. Their unique blend of specialist services includes a school, college and residential services providing education and healthcare for children and young people. Find out more at www.youngepilepsy.org.uk

Stage 1

stage 2 start

stage 2 finish

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stage 3 start

1 Start by lining a 24 x 20cm brownie tin with baking parchment and preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas mark 4.

2 Melt the butter, dark chocolate and orange zest over a gentle heat and then leave to cool.

3 Whisk the eggs and sugar together with an electric whisk until pale and doubled in volume, then stir in the cooled chocolate mixture.

4. Sift over the flour and cocoa and fold in, before gently stirring in the chocolate orange.

5 Pour into the prepared tin and bake for 35-40 minutes.

6 Leave to cool in the tin and then cut it into 20 squares.

stage 3 finish

stage 4 29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

stage 5 7

What’s On

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

February Flippin’ Good Fun Pancake Races, Greenwich Market, SE10 9HZ

12noon. Round up your friends and family and help raise funds for Greenwich & Bexley Community Hospice. All flippers get a free pancake and winners will receive medals. Meeting point - middle of the market. Just turn up and get flippin’!

For more information visit www. greenwichmarket.london

Sat 10 – Sun 18 Feb Knight School, Tower of London, EC3N 4AB

Train as pages then squires, until at last you are worthy to become Knights of the Tower and defend the famous fortress from the marauding peasants beyond the walls. Try on medieval fashions, handle and explore armour and lots more. For more information visit www.hrp.org.uk/ tower-of-london

interactive show How to be a Zoo Keeper LIVE!, enjoy a selection of your favourite rides, see over 1,000 animals and lots more. To buy tickets visit www.chessington.com

Half Term Explorers, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL Become a junior outdoor explorer this Half Term and follow your activity booklet around the grounds to solve clues, spot wildlife and be rewarded with a chocolate prize at the end. Included with the price admission. For more information visit www.leeds-castle.com

Animal Adventures, Chessington World of Adventures Resort, KT9 2NE

Perfect for all ages, this roarsome February Half Term event is packed full of fun and adventure for the whole family. Check out the new

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

Calling all Budding Writers!

WICKED, the award-winning West End musical that tells the incredible untold story of the witches of Oz, together with the National Literacy Trust, has announced the eighth year of the prestigious WICKED Young Writer Awards. The closing date is 12 March so enter as soon as you can! Details can be found at www.WickedYoungWriterAwards.com. As in previous years, entrants can enter one of five different age categories; 5-7yrs, 8-10yrs, 1114yrs, 15-17yrs and18-25 yrs.

Pieces of original writing can be submitted, either individually or as part of a school group, until 12 March.

The overall winners from each category will win a VIP family experience to the West End production of WICKED, including an exclusive backstage tour, £50 book/eBook tokens, the 5-7yrs, 8-11yrs and 11-14yrs categories will win £100 worth of books for their school library donated by Hachette Children’s Books. In addition the 5-7 age category winners will receive a creative writing workshop for their class. The three schools with the highest number of entries will receive a bespoke writing workshop at their respective schools. All finalists’ entries will be printed in the WICKED Young Writer Awards anthology.

The WICKED Young Writer Awards raises money for the National Literacy Trust, who campaign to improve public understanding of the vital importance of literacy. Exclusive teachers’ resources can be found online including tips for inspiring and encouraging writing in the classroom.

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29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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Sat 10 – Sat 24 Feb

Kiss Me Quick, Greenwich Market, SE10 9HZ

Feel the Love this February - strike a pose in the market’s Love Heart, take a picture and post # Greenwich Market to be in for the chance to win a Sticks’n’Sushi gift card and a Greenwich Market goodie bag.

For more information visit www. greenwichmarket.london

Bexley Book Buzz Literary Festival, Bexley Libraries

The festival will feature events across the borough, including visits from authors, illustrators, storytellers, drama and art workshops, creative writing workshops, visits from famous book characters, ‘Where’s Wally?’ hunts and much more. For more information and to book visit www.bexley.gov.uk/libraries

Sat 10 – Sun 25 Feb

Secret Lab: Light Fantastic, Historic Dockyard, Chatham, ME4 4TE

With Doc away grab a lab coat, it’s time to be Doc yourself and learn with Bunsen all things lights. Listen to Doc’s instructions and pickup your lab coat before entering the Secret Lab … don’t forget your goggles too.

For more information visit www. thedockyard.co.uk

Sun 11 Feb

Tales for Rainy Days, Shakespeare’s Globe, SE1 9DT

(Also 13, 15 and 17 Feb) Families can explore the world around The Tempest in workshops and storytelling sessions and enjoy taking part in activities inspired by myths and legends from around the world.

For more information and to book visit www.shakespearesglobe.com

Darwin Day, Down House, Downe, BR6 7JT

To celebrate Darwin’s birthday enjoy hands-on, close-up live animal encounters with insect species from around the world including tarantulas, scorpions, giant millipedes and many more. For more information visit www.english-heritage.org.uk

Hoist the Flag, National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, SE10 9NF

(Also 14 and 18 Feb) The rainbow flag is a symbol of pride and unity for the LGBT community. Take inspiration from the Museum’s collection of flags and ship badges, and create your own flag in this craft workshop. Ages 5-10. Free. For more information visit www.rmg.co.uk/ national-maritime-museum

Mon 12 Feb

The Winter’s Tale, Duffield Studio, National Theatre, SE1 9PX

10am-4pm. Become a Playmaker for the day and treat your family to a unique theatre experience responding to The Winter’s Tale.

Create characters, devise a script and make a piece of costume before weaving it all together into a performance at the end of the day.

To book visit www.nationaltheatre. org.uk

Kevin Graal, Various Locations

Join in with a fun storytelling session, for children aged 5–10 years. Event taking place at the Central Library, Bexleyheath at 11am-12noon, Welling Library 2-3pm and Thamesmead Library 4-5pm. Part of the Book Buzz Literary Festival. Free. To book visit www.bexleylibraries.eventbrite.com

Robotics Workshop, Thamesmead Library, SE2 9TR

10.30am-12.30pm. If you want to gain some experience in building a robot, why not book onto this robotics workshop? Also taking place at Crayford Library 2-4pm. Ages 8+. Part of the Book Buzz Literary Festival. Free. To book visit www. bexleylibraries.eventbrite.com

Drama Workshop, Sidcup Library, DA14 4AA

3-4pm. An opportunity to take part in a drama class with the Helen O’Grady Drama Academy, whose aim is to develop self-confidence and self-esteem through drama. Ages 8-11. Part of the Book Buzz Literary Festival. Free. To book visit www. bexleylibraries.eventbrite.com

Mon 12 – Tues 13 Feb

Out of this World, Royal Observatory Greenwich, SE10 8XJ

10am-12.30pm. Join the Royal Observatory Astronomers for a Moon-themed morning which includes a planetarium show, interactive quiz and immersive virtual reality activity. Ages 7+. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.rmg.co.uk/royal-observatory

Mon 12 – Fri 16 Feb

The Adventures of Toad, Bank of England Museum, EC2R 8AH 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm. The fantastic stories from The Wind in the Willows are brought to life by a costumed storyteller in these fun and engaging sessions. Free. For more information visit www.bankofengland.co.uk/ museum

Make it Go!, Cutty Sark, Greenwich, SE10 9HT

11.30am-4pm. Join in this Half Term for a racing-themed arts and design experience where you can try out your design ideas and race your vehicles beneath the hull of the world’s most magnificent sailing ship.

Ages 4+. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.rmg.co.uk/ cutty-sark

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 12...

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Family Theatre

Family Theatre

show has delighted thousands of children and their families over the past few years. With the perfect length and content for young children and stunning professional dancing, it is a wonderful introduction to ballet and a great treat for young and old.

All the productions are specifically designed for children and young people, including those with special needs, and combine superb dancing, crystal clear storytelling and stunning costumes. There are also photo opportunities for children with the dancers after every performance to create a very special memory for them. It’s never too early to introduce children to the magic of live theatre.

For full tour dates and venues, as well as info about classes and parties, visit www.lets-all-dance.co.uk, email info@lets-all-dance. co.uk or call 020 8265 4634.

Science, Literature and Puppets at Blackheath Halls

Blackheath Halls has offerings for all age groups this season. The venue’s reliable selection of puppet theatre for the younger age groups will include a classic fairy tale triple bill with ‘Three Little Pigs and Goldilocks’ as well as new takes on popular favourites with ‘Little Red Robin Hood’ and ‘A Real Mermaid’s Tale’.

Blackheath Halls also recognises the need for more events involving older children. In early February, as part of a weekend celebrating 100 years of women receiving the right to vote (Breaking Barriers), there will be a literary talk by the author of ‘The Princess and the Suffragette’, the sequel to Frances Hodgson Burnett’s much-loved classic, ‘A Little Princess’. This event will provide children with a fascinating insight into one of the most important events in modern history, marrying fiction with fact as the character in the book is swept up in the women’s rights movement. It will also include a craft activity.

Looking forward to April, Blackheath Halls will also host its very first live science show presented by TV astronomer Mark Thompson involving vortex generating dustbins, vanishing beakers and even exploding elephant’s toothpaste.

For more information visit www.blackheathhalls.com

Children’s events Feb-Apr 2018 THE PRINCESS AND THE SUFFRAGETTE

LITTLE RED ROBIN HOOD

SATURDAY 17 MARCH 11am & 3pm

Holly Webb

SATURDAY 3 FEBRUARY 2pm

THREE LITTLE PIGS & GOLDILOCKS Fairytale Double Bill

SATURDAY 10 FEBRUARY 11am & 3pm

MARK THOMPSON’S SPECTACULAR SCIENCE SHOW SATURDAY 21 APRIL 2pm & 4.30pm

A REAL MERMAID’S TALE SATURDAY 3 MARCH 3pm

Dance Shows for Families

Let’s All Dance is a professional dance company that creates shows for family audiences. The company believes that dance and the arts should be accessible to everyone, so they tour extensively and keep their ticket prices as low as possible to ensure thousands of children every year can watch and be inspired by their fantastic live shows.

The company’s very first production and one of their most popular, The Princess and The Frog, is back on tour during February Half Term and will visit some great venues including The Marlowe, Canterbury, and Leicester Square Theatre in London’s West End. This charming

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TICKETS: £12.50 adults | £10 children Mulitbuy discounts are available for these events

All tickets £8.50 unless otherwise stated

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facebook.com/ Box office 020 8463 0100 Website blackheathhalls.com @blackheathhalls Blackheathhalls

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

9

Family Theatre

18 Mar

10 Feb

The Enormous Turnip One Moment In Time presents their own version of this classic folk tale, with a magical twist.

Featuring beautifully handcrafted puppets and sets, storytelling, live music, songs and lots of joining in. Ages 3-8.

11 Feb

Family Theatre Blackheath Halls SE3

Churchill Bromley

Box Office: 020 8463 0100 3 Feb

Box Office: 020 3285 6000 10 – 11 Feb

The Princess and The Suffragette

Tiddler and Other Terrific Tales

It’s 1913 and life at Miss Minchin’s school feels as dull as ever for Lottie. However, when she sneaks out to a Suffragette protest, she’s swept up in the women’s rights movement.

Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s terrific tales are woven together with live music, puppetry and a whole host of colourful characters.

10 Feb

Captain Flinn and the Pirate Dinosaurs 2

Three Little Pigs & Goldilocks

12 Feb

The Magic Cutlass is the highly What really happened between anticipated sequel based on the the wolf and his three porky award-winning book by Giles Andreae and Russell Ayto. Ages 3+. friends? Why was Goldilocks wandering in the woods?

19 - 20 Mar These perplexing questions Dear Zoo are explained by the Enjoy This production will wonderful Theatre of the show! delight all those who Widdershins. Ages have read the book And don’t 3+. (both young and forget to say 3 Mar old) as it unfolds you saw it in with child-engaging A Real Primary puppets, music Mermaid’s Tale Times! and lots of audience Follow intrepid interaction. Ages 2+. explorer, Amelia Buttersnap, on an exciting adventure on 14 – 15 Apr the high seas with pirates, My First Ballet : Swan monstrous sea creatures and Lake mermaid treasure. Ages 3+.

This shortened version 17 Mar with Tchaikovsky’s wonderful Little Red Robin Hood music is the perfect Garlic Theatre presents a introduction to the magic of funny, slapstick, glove puppet ballet for young children. A show with beautifully crafted collaboration of English National puppets, clowning and gentle Ballet and English National humour. Ages 4-8.

Ballet School.

21 Apr

Mark Thompson’s Spectacular Science Show Explore the strange and magical properties of matter with exploding elephant’s toothpaste, vortex generating dustbins, vanishing beakers and even exploding Pringle tubes! Ages 7+.

10

Greenwich Theatre Box Office: 020 8858 7755 9 Feb

Boys Don’t Through a series of funny, familiar and sometimes heartbreaking stories of boys in the emotional spotlight, this spoken word show offers the possibility of more open communication for everyone. Ages 8-12.

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

A Necklace of Raindrops Dynamic physical storytelling, live music, shadow puppetry and magical moving paper scenery combine to bring these timeless tales alive for a new generation of story listeners.

Ages 5+.

12 Feb

Red Riding Hood and the Wolf Robyn wants to tell you what really happened through a world of homemade makebelieve. Enjoy a new spin on this classic story – about two misfits who just want to fit in. Ages 7+.

25 Mar

Captain Flinn and the Pirate Dinosaurs 2 Flinn, Pearl, and Tom are whisked away for another fantastic adventure to a world of devious dinosaurs, deep sea dangers and smelly sausages.

Ages 3+.

Leicester Square Theatre

Leaf Discover the life story of a very special leaf in this warm, intimate and playful new piece for under 3s inspired by nature and the seasons.

13 Feb

The Gingerbread Man Hiccup Theatre cook up a brand new version of this classic tale adding delicious original live music, tasty storytelling and dollops of fun. Ages 3+.

Box Office: 020 7734 2222 www.leicestersquaretheatre. com 13 – 14 Feb

The Princess and The Frog An original score, gorgeous costumes and crystal clear story-telling draw you into the magical world of ballet, and make it accessible to all.

Presented by Let’s All Dance.

Southbank Centre

14 Feb

Pandora’s Box A spellbinding new play, fusing drama, storytelling, music and dance, performed by a cast of professional actors and a chorus of local young people and community members. Ages 7+.

16 Feb

Hoot Owl, Master of Disguise Is Hoot Owl as masterful as he thinks he is? Will he become a member of the Owl Parliament?

And will he ever succeed in catching himself some dinner?

Ages 4+.

17 Feb

Tom Thumb CBeebies’ Patrick Lynch, who has been performing it for more than a decade, brings this classic story to life in a playful and fascinating show. Ages 3+.

4 Mar

Box Office: 020 3879 9555 10 – 12 Feb

Me and My Bee Our fuzzy little friends need our help and multi award-winning theatre company ThisEgg is inviting you to their political party disguised as a party, party disguised as a show to help.

Ages 7+.

14 – 15 Feb Windibops

Join Volta Flatulence, Caroline Trumpface, Sally Silent But Deadly and Daisy Parphead as they invite audiences to their laboratory to investigate the link between flatulence and global warming. Ages 5+.

16 Feb

The Hilariously Funny World Of… Comedian James Campbell presents a hilarious stand-up comedy show for children 6+.

The Little Mochi Man

16 – 18 Feb

Join him on his adventures as he travels from the snowy mountains of Hokkaido, to the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, meeting many wondrous creatures and characters along the way. Ages 4+.

Embrace the mess and achieve harmony in a dance-theatre show. When it starts out shipshape, there’s only one way to go – all messed up. Ages 3+.

Tidy Up

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Box Office: www. vaultfestival.com 3 – 18 Feb

National SE1 Box Office: 020 7452 3000 Until 10 Apr

Pinocchio

One Duck Down

Featuring unforgettable music 7000 rubber ducks, 7 seas and and songs from the Walt Disney 1 big adventure! Jam packed film including I’ve Got No Strings with music, clowning and and When You Wish upon a Star in puppetry, this show teaches dazzling new arrangements, all ages the importance Pinocchio comes to life as of looking after our Enjoy never before. Ages 8+. ocean. the show!

17 – 18 Feb

Doktor James’s Bad Skemes

And don’t forget to say you saw it in

14 - 28 Feb

The Winter’s Tale

Perdita is a brave, intelligent and Primary much-loved girl, but Prepare for an Times! something is not quite anarchic and very silly right in her world. Join her hour of deadly fun, ideal for on a journey through magic and 6-11 year olds (and adults) who mayhem as she uncovers her story want to become more powerful, – the girl who was once lost and more naughty and more in then found. Ages 8-12. charge of the entire world.

Blue Elephant Theatre, SE5

3 – 4 Mar

Me & My Bee

Multi award-winning theatre company, ThisEgg, invites you to save the world – one bee at a time. A new comedy for children and adults alike. Plant the seed for change, join the Bee Party. Before it’s too late…

Box Office: 020 7701 0100 4 – 6 Feb

Ribbet Ribbet Croak

Join Grandma and Grandpa Frog as they leave the pond to plan a big surprise. Help them keep a look out for their cheeky Grandfrogs, who pop up in unexpected places.

Watch out for the Hungry Hoot Owl Hoot Owl is no ordinary owl - he’s a master of disguise – and he plans to use his cunning camouflage powers to gobble up the tiny animals of the night. The trouble is, Hoot Owl’s prey keep escaping. See Hoot Owl at Greenwich theatre this Half Term. Is Hoot Owl as masterful as he thinks he is? Will he become a member of the Owl Parliament?

Will he ever succeed in catching himself some dinner?

Original songs, colourful puppets, animation, hilarity, ridiculousness and rapid costume changes abound in this wildly inventive new show from Proon Productions, based on the ‘Laugh Out Loud Book Award’-shortlisted picture book by Sean Taylor, with sets faithful to Jean Jullien’s visually creative illustrations.

Hoot Owl is suitable for all the family aged 4 and above, it is at the Greenwich Theatre on Friday 16 February at 2pm.

Family Theatre

Vault Festival Waterloo

Introducing the magic of ballet to children aged 3+

“A POCKET-SIZED DELIGHT” THE TIMES

This Easter 14 – 15 Apr 2018 Book Online: churchilltheatre.co.uk Ticket Office: 020 3285 6000

ballet.org.uk/myfirstballet

Illustration: Mark Ruffle

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My First Swan Lake_135mmx90_Primary Times Bromley.indd 1

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18 1/18/2018 4:25:00 PM

11

What’s On

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

February Discover with Darwin, Down House, Downe, BR6 7JT

11am, 12noon, 1.30pm and 2.30pm.

Join the man himself – Charles Darwin - and explore evolution at its birthplace as you delve daringly into the mysteries of science. Each workshop will involve storytelling and hands-on activities of a Darwinian theme. For more information visit www.englishheritage.org.uk/home-of-charlesdarwin-down-house

Discoveries and Inventions, Eltham Palace and Gardens, SE9 5QE

11am-3pm. Take a trip through history’s most exciting inventions from the totally practical to the downright wacky – can you design something to add to the record books? Tickets will be available to purchase at the event site on the day. For more information visit www. english-heritage.org.uk/elthampalace-and-gardens

SMASHfest UK: Flood!, Deptford Lounge, SE8 4RH

An extreme climate change has caused a huge flood which will overwhelm London. How can we prepare? What can we do? Join in this big adventure for all the family with comedy, music, games, experiments and lots more. For more information visit www.smashfestuk.com

Half Term Workshops, J’amies Gymnastics Academy, Chislehurst School for Girls, BR7 6HE 10am-3pm. During all holiday periods when children are off school, JGA run different holiday activities for members and nonmembers to enjoy. Also taking place at the Shirley Academy. For more information and to book visit www. jamiesgymnasticsacademy.co.uk

Mon 12 Feb – Tues 31 Jul Dinosaurs in the Wild, Greenwich Peninsula, SE10

This is live action like you’ve never seen it before. Beginning 67 million years ago, time-jump technology will catapult you back to the late Cretaceous Period where you can

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 12

“

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get up close and personal with dinosaurs like Tyrannosaurus and Triceratops. For more information and to buy tickets visit www. dinosaursinthewild.com

Tues 13 Feb

Flippin’ Good Fun Pancake Races, Greenwich Market, SE10 9HZ

12noon. Round up your friends and family and help raise funds for Greenwich & Bexley Community Hospice. All flippers get a free pancake and winners will receive medals. Meeting point - middle of the market. Just turn up and get flippin’!

For more information visit www. greenwichmarket.london

Dance Workshop, Erith Library, DA8 1SL 10.30am-12noon. Take part in this fun dance workshop inspired by the magic of Harry Potter. Ages 7+. Part of the Book Buzz Literary Festival.

Free. For more information and to book visit www.bexleylibraries. eventbrite.com

Sample on Greenwich Peninsula

Greenwich Peninsula are presenting Sample, curated by Hemingway Design, on Saturday 3 March. It’s London’s most vibrant urban market, open from 11am till 6pm on Greenwich Peninsula. The nearest tube is North Greenwich.

Sample is a free celebration of the start of each new season through fresh produce and modern craftsmanship. It showcases the latest emerging creatives from the worlds of fashion, beauty, art, design and homewares with new collections, archive and one off show-pieces, alongside a seasonal food market of fresh ingredients. For more information visit www. hemingwaydesign.co.uk Sample takes place next to the O2 Arena and the beautiful NOW Gallery on the finger of land flanking the Thames, where a new district dedicated to artists and designers is emerging.

Photo credit: Warren King

FASHION / HOME / FOOD / MUSIC / FLORA

Comic Arts Workshops, Thamesmead Library, SE2 9TR

11am-12.30pm. Join in a fun comic arts workshop with Emily Fellah this Half Term. Also taking place at Welling Library at 2-3.30pm. Ages 8+. Part of the Book Buzz Literary Festival. Free.

For more information and to book visit www.bexleylibraries.eventbrite. com

Performances by John Kirk, Sidcup Library, DA14 4AA

11-11.40am. Enjoy Roald Dahl’s ‘The Twits’ with storyteller John Kirk. Also taking place at Crayford Library 2-2.40pm and Erith Library 4-4.40pm. Ages 6+. Part of the Book Buzz Literary Festival. Free. For more information and to book visit www. bexleylibraries.eventbrite.com

Flipping Marvellous Pancake Race, London Bridge City, SE1 2DB

12.30-1.30pm. In support of theatre charity London Bubble, teams of three from businesses in SE1 will run the race around The Scoop at London Bridge City, collecting ingredients and flipping pancakes to the finish line. For more information and to register your team visit www. londonbubble.org.uk

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

SPRING SATURDAY 3RD MARCH GREENWICH PENINSULA

OVER 50 INDEPENDENT DESIGNERS, MAKERS & ARTISANS 11AM TILL 6PM / FREE ENTRY / NEAREST TUBE NORTH GREENWICH WEAREURBANVILLAGE / #SAMPLESPRING GREENWICHPENINSULA.CO.UK

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

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the Weather!

Pottery on the Parade

Pottery on the Parade in Eltham is the place to go for ceramic painting in South East London and beyond. The shop’s stylish interior contains a huge and ever-changing selection of pottery items, all waiting for you to put your unique stamp on with the wide variety of vibrant paint colours available.

Helpful staff are on-hand to give advice and inspiration if you run short of ideas. With so much on offer you’re bound to find something you love and which once painted, you will cherish forever. Hand painted pottery makes for great presents, whatever the occasion. There are items that are practical such as mugs and plates, useful like trinket boxes and money boxes and whimsical such as mermaids and robots.You’ll find something for everyone, whatever their age.

Fun Days Out with the Family Secret Lab: Light Fantastic

There is lots to keep you busy this year at the Historic Dockyard, Chatham. Have you ever wondered why red light is used in submarines? Doc.Yard’s able assistant Bunsen is back from Saturday 10 until Sunday 25 February with all things Light Fantastic in a fun and interactive 45-minute experience at The Historic Dockyard.

This year marks The Dockyard’s 400th birthday and Secret Lab: Light Fantastic will kick off a fun-packed season of events, talks, exhibitions and activities.

Along with the painting, you can enjoy their triple-certified coffee, tea, made-to-order sandwiches and homemade cakes, all created with the highest quality and ethically sourced ingredients. If you’re not in an artistic frame of mind, you can drop in for a coffee and read the newspapers provided or use the free Wi-Fi. The café is vegan and GF friendly and will do its best to accommodate any dietary requirements.

With four zones of interactive fun, there’s something for everyone. Be careful not to be fooled by the optical illusions as you walk through – the bridge on the floor is quite high up! Learn about reflections in a room of mirrors followed by the scientific magic of lasers making balloons burst.You can even explore the use of light in submarines and look at periscopes too. Don’t miss the splat zone, where mixing paint colours shows how Thomas Edison invented the light bulb. Step into a UV zone and see whether anything you’re wearing shows up.

Pottery on the Parade is an absolute gem and a fun place to visit for children and adults alike. Whether it’s birthday parties, baby showers or the start of your hen night, Pottery on the Parade is a great venue for your celebration. Enjoy 10% off painting when you take the advert below with you. For more information visit, www. potteryontheparade.co.uk.

Grab your lab coat and glasses upon arrival and prepare for some Light Fantastic fun at The Historic Dockyard Chatham this February Half Term. For more information please visit www.thedockyard.co.uk.

’S DOC. YARD

92-96 Westmount Road SE9 1UT 020 8265 4426

www.potteryontheparade.co.uk

FAMILY FU ACTIVIT N IES

PAINT YOUR OWN POTTERY Pottery on the Parade is open daily for food, drinks and ceramic painting.

Light Fantastic INCLUD IN YOU ED ENTR R TICKETY

thedockyard.co.uk #secretlab Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

We have a wide selection of pottery waiting to be painted with prices starting at £7.50.

H

T 10 - 25 RY FEBRUA 2018 TH

Kindly supported by

Enjoy freshly prepared breakfasts and lunches. Sandwiches made to order, triple-certified coffee, homemade cakes and a wide selection of premium soft drinks!

Enjoy 10% off painting with this advert 29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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Whatever the Weather!

Pancake Day Races in London

With Shrove Tuesday falling early this year on 13 February, Londoners are already preparing to celebrate the day with piles of pancakes, oodles of lemon and sugar and of course the tradition of running with a frying pan.

There are races being held across the capital for you to test your flipping skills against some of the toughest competitors. The long-standing Great Spitalfields Pancake Race in aid of London’s Air Ambulance returns on Shrove Tuesday, 12.30pm. As well as prizes for winners and runners-up, they’ll be plaudits for the best dressed team. Apply to take part by emailing info@ alternativearts.co.uk.

On the same day, in the impressive surroundings of Westminster’s Victoria Tower Gardens, MPs, Lords and members of the media will ‘batter’ it out to see who will be crowned the Rehab Parliamentary Pancake Race champions.

Greenwich Market will also be holding Pancake Day races on Tuesday 13 and Saturday 10 February at 12noon. Just turn up on the day as a team or individual and race to be in with the chance of winning a coveted medal. Donations will go to Greenwich and Bexley Community Hospice.

Photo credit: Sam Warr Photography

Half Term Explorers at Leeds Castle

Set within 500 acres of beautiful Kent parkland, Leeds Castle has attracted crusaders and kings, courtiers and queens, witches and villains, world statesmen and icons of the silver screen. Explore the Yew Maze or conquer the Knight’s Realm and Squires’ Courtyard adventure playgrounds.You can even watch the daily free flying falconry displays.

A knight must always be prepared and kids can even have a go at making and decorating their own helmets and shields, as well as trying on the medieval fashions of the day.

Activities take place from 10-18 February between 11.00am and 3.30pm each day. Knight School is included in the Tower of London general admission ticket. For more information and to buy tickets visit, www.hrp.org.uk/towerofLondon

Chinese New Year 2018 in London

Celebrate the beginning of the year of the dog with London’s Chinese New Year, the largest outside Asia, packed with colourful parades, performances and displays in and around Chinatown and London’s West End. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people descend on the West End to enjoy a colourful parade, free stage performances and traditional Chinese food and to wish each other “Xin Nian Kuai Le” (Happy New Year in Mandarin) or “San Nin Faai Lok” (in Cantonese).

In 2018, the London celebrations are taking place on 18 February, which is the Sunday following the date of the Chinese New Year (16 February).

The festivities kick off

B dis ook co on un lin te d t e fo ick r et s

Become a junior explorer in the grounds of Leeds Castle from 10 to 18 February. Follow an exciting fun packed activity booklet filled with clues to help you spot different birds and trees as you adventure through the Castle estate. Complete your journey and be rewarded with a chocolate prize. This event is included in the price of admission.

A valid admission ticket to Leeds Castle is required.

Annual tickets cost £24.90 for adults, £21.90 for seniors and visitors with disabilities (carer goes free) and £16.90 for children (under 4s free).

The grounds open at 10am daily and the castle is open from 10.30am.

Last admission is 3pm and gates close at 5pm (October to March).

For more information on Leeds Castle attractions, activities and events during 2018 visit, www.leeds-castle.com.

Enrol in Knight School

Become a knight and defend the capital’s most famous fortress this February Half Term. Throughout the holidays, the Tower of London will be hosting a Knight School offering families the chance to travel back to a medieval world of heraldry and valour on a quest to become a knight.

From manners, etiquette and entertainment to martial skills and fitness, learn the essential components of a Knight’s arsenal. A team of medieval pages will provide extensive schooling in entertaining Lords and Ladies with jokes and dancing, whilst the squires take charge of putting trainees through their paces, learning swordsmanship and chivalric duties. Finally, the training will culminate in a knighting ceremony.

14

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Half Term Explorers 10th to 18th February Become a junior explorer in the grounds of Leeds Castle. Follow an exciting, fun-packed activity booklet to solve clues and spot different birds and trees as you adventure through the estate. Complete your journey to be rewarded with a chocolate prize.

This event is included in the price of admission.

leeds-castle.com

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with a vibrant parade, starting at 10am with a dragon and lion dance in Charing Cross Road, before snaking its way through Chinatown.

Trafalgar Square will host the main stage performances, including traditional Chinese dance and music shows, and more stages can be found on Shaftesbury Avenue and Charing Cross Road.

The kids will love the Leicester Square family zone filled with cultural activities and family-friendly performances, including calligraphy, Chinese music, dressing up in traditional outfits and more.

Make it Go! at Cutty Sark

Visit the Cutty Sark this February for a racing themed arts and design experience where you can try out your creative ideas and compete against other vehicles beneath the hull of the world’s most magnificent sailing ship, Cutty Sark.

Cutty Sark was one of the fastest ships of the Victorian period and competed in the prestigious tea races between Britain and China.

She made record-breaking journeys around the world, even managing to out-pace a steamship in the Indian Ocean.

Her fantastic speed was due to her wonderful, sleek design and construction from some of the best materials available to shipbuilders at that time. The Half Term workshop on Cutty Sark, led by artists and architects, will enable you to try out different ideas, build your prototype and race it against other vehicles to discover which designs are the best.

Running from 12-16 February, 11.30am-1.30pm and 2-4pm, the activity is free with admission to the ship and is suitable for ages 4 and above. For more details please visit, www.rmg.co.uk.

The Adventures of Toad

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The fantastic stories from ‘The Wind in the Willows’ are brought to life by our costumed storyteller in these fun and interactive sessions. No booking required.

10:00am–5:00pm Monday to Friday.

Closed weekends and Bank Holidays. Entrance in Bartholomew Lane, London EC2R 8AH

Share your experience boemuseum T: 020 3461 5545

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1

Whatever the Weather!

CS - PRIMARY TIMES QUARTER PAGE AD - 277X90 - FEB 2018 - OUT.pdf

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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Time to Party Party Ideas

Book a magical short break at Gulliver’s Theme Park Resorts this summer for even less! Simply use online code SPTLN by 31 July for the Explorers Retreat Matlock Bath or the Adventurers Village Milton Keynes. For the Gulliver’s Hotel Warrington call the hotline team on 01925 444 888 and quote the code.

When you’re organising your child’s birthday party it’s important All Resorts to Gulliver’s remember who feature it’s for. It’s easy to get self-conscious fantastic stay and play packages comparing yourself to otherthat parents or the perfect Pinterest include theirasaction-packed party, entry but astolong your child and their friends have fun, that’s theme parks.

It’s theThere perfectare two main avenues you can go down all that matters. summer for to children aged to when ittreat comes hosting – 2homemade or readymade. We asked 13, with non-stop rides and party guru, Rachel Benson, to give us some tips. attractions that the entire family can If youBook do decide to host your own party and go down the enjoy. your next adventure homemade stress! Your child will enjoy their day if with Gulliver’sroute, Themedon’t Park Resorts you For do too my main memory from birthday parties as a child now. more– information, visit www.gulliversfun.co.uk. was getting excited when writing the invitations, not how much effort my Mum put in to organising them!

Alternatively you could go for the readymade approach, which make up for the expense by saving you time and washing up!

ThereBlackheath are lots ofisparty firmsplace that offer experiences.

Locale a favourite for alldifferent get-togethers be it with your work colleagues, Theseorcan haveLocale’s themesfulltoo, from service sport tooffers art to the outdoors. friends family. planning everything required for your party, event, UV Glow D Above all,or relax.

The day. dayFrom is about and their friends celebration wedding youryour initialchild meeting with the events team to the moment is New you are per cos for the fect for is and your if something goes thea chances your child won’t toast celebration youwrong, will have dedicatedare team working with you all the way. Locale ultimate b irt 8 hday tr 01 any eat notice calm andBlackheath let good memories be made. set in theanyway. heart ofStay the stunning village and offers true distinction and style2for occasion. The exquisite building with its fully stocked cocktail bar, elegant staircase, dramatic ceiling, majestic chandeliers and picture windows make for a truly unique setting for any event.

PRESENTS The mainStars dining room All Funis suitable Discofor lunch or dinner for up to 120 guests seated or 140 All Stars Fun is adining leadingroom, children’s in Kentspace that lends itself to standing.

TheDisco private Theentertainment Olive Room,company is an intimate and Southcelebrations East London. Their are bursting with energy and exclusive from entertainers cocktail parties, small wedding breakfasts, hen parties and interact withoccasions the children throughout the party. create the ultimate party celebratory providing room for 36They guests seated or 50 standing.

Give Locale a call on experience for all of children the team adultswho don’twill get be left happy out, as to they get you or email 020 8852 0700 toages speak to one and of the help to join in and have fun with their little ones, creating special memories.

GLOW Mania UV Disco Package Blackheath@localerestaurants.com.

All Stars know exactly what the children from £275 based on 2 hours 8 – 11 years

News

Short Breaks at Gulliver’s

They have lots of extras to make your little one’s party even more special including princess mascots, luxury afternoon tea, bespoke party bags, and of course you can add a few of their luxury bespoke balloons too.

Blush’s balloons are amazing for any occasion - Birthdays, Baby Showers, Christenings, Weddings, in fact for any event where you would like the WOW factor. Whether you need just one or two balloons or a whole y No mess, n ave our event set up you will receive the same greatchildre o fuss, h our b us! n n’s fun service from the team at Blush Parties and party o 01689 Balloons.

858664 As a thank you for taking the time GREAT to read this Make a they greatwould party like to offer you a 10% discount ANYWHERE on any balloon order until May 2018 and 5% discount for your children with onballoons, any party bookingmagic until Maywww.kidspartybus.com 2018 when you mention puppetry, theirand advert. pass the parcel Call the team on 01322 556 677 where they will be delighted to help.

Top For more detailed information on all Entertainers great services visit the website For all your party needs www.blushpartiesandballoons.co.uk for both children & adults or like them Facebook Callonme now and Music, Magic & Dancing Instagram to keep updated on all 07527 293581 07534 968290 their special offers.

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Celebrations at Locale Blackheath

want and create the perfect fun disco experience for their customers who rebook year after year. They have all the latest music and favourite party tunes.

Children of 8 – 11 years can experience a “grown up” feel with full disco set up, BLACKHEATH LED Disco lights, All Stars Karaoke and lots of competitions such as great dance offs and lip sync battles.

All Stars Fun Disco offer parties for birthdays, nursery and primary schools, fetes and corporate events. They are professional and reliable and love making every event unique and extra special.Visit www.allstarsparty.net or call 07973 155603.

HOSTING YOUR FAMILY CELEBRATIONS & PARTIES IN STYLE

PRIVATE FUNCTION ROOM HIRE OR MAIN DINING ROOM AVAILABLE FOR LARGER PRIVATE PARTIES. THE BEST BIT... NO HIRE FEES! 1 LAWN TERRACE, BLACKHEATH VILLAGE SE3 9LJ Looking for a fabulous party ||venue?

Then look no further! Blush Parties are 020 8852 0700 LOCALEBLACKHEATH.COM based in the heart of Bexley Village and have been hosting children’s parties for over eight years. The shop has been transformed into a stunning princess parlour where they offer an array of party packages and school holiday workshops. So, whether you are looking for a Princess Pamper Party, Cake Decorating Party, Bath Bomb Making Party, Pamper Craft Party or even a Why toddle when you can dance? Celebrating 5 years of baby Slime Party, Blush Parties cater for these and more.

Blush Parties and Balloons

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Experienced, energetic entertainer • DJ Booth Full Disco set up with all the latest chart music • LED Disco Lights UV Cannons • Bubble Machine • Glow Stick Prizes Super fun games & competitions

THE MEGA GLOW Package from £375 8 – 11 years • • • • • •

Experienced, energetic entertainer • DJ Booth Full Disco set up with all the latest chart music UV Cannons • Bubble Machine & Smoke Machine (venue permitting) Super fun games & competitions • Full Lighting 100 Glow Stick bracelets/necklaces UV Glow Neon Face paint & Hair Chalks

07973 155 603 DBS Checked and Public Liability insurance

www.allstarsparty.net facebook.com/allstarsfundisco1 admin@allstarsparty.net netmums

UV Glow Discos are booking fast and are very popular with our school discos/ School Leavers.

Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall boogieing on London’s Southbank, join the resident dj-mumma, Monski Mouse and her Dancers for 50 minutes of bopping family fun. get‘18 heads, shoulders, knees and toes 16 29It’sJantime - 18toMar bopping along to lashings of swing, pop, rock,

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Take the Stress Out of Kids’ Parties

Let’s All Dance knows just how stressful children’s parties can be for parents. There’s always so much to think about – the venue, invitations, balloons, food, cake, entertainment and that’s all before the big day itself.

Let’s All Dance can take away this stress by providing a fantastic professional dancer to lead a fun, energetic and unique dance party.

Based on your child’s favourite dance style and music, the expert team will choreograph a personalized routine to make your child feel special and give them a party to remember.

Dancing is great fun for all ages, all abilities, both boys and girls.

It’s also fantastic for building

confidence and making friends. No one needs previous experience to enjoy

these parties and Let’s All Dance can accommodate a wide range of tastes and requirements. Choose from a huge range of dance styles including ballet, musical theatre, street dance and Bollywood.You could even add a theme - princesses, pirates, superheroes, animals and lots more are all on offer. There are also a host of optional extras including mini makeovers, party bags, balloons and invitations.

All the friendly, energetic dancers have a wealth of experience, DBS checks and personal insurance. Take the stress out of your child’s birthday and plan their perfect dance party today. Go to www.lets-all-dance.co.uk, email info@lets-alldance.co.uk or call 020 8265 4634.

Trampolining Birthday Parties

AirJump is not just a great place to go trampolining with your family but it’s also a great place to host your child’s birthday party. Tailored parties are available for Tots (aged 5 and under), Standard (aged 6 to 106) and SEN (for those requiring adaptions), featuring your very own party host to take the pressure off mums and dads. The party packages include jumping for an hour with AirJump socks for all as well as pizza and squash in the exclusive party

room for 45 minutes post jumping.You can bring your own cake or you can order an AJ Approved one at an additional cost. All this and more extras including hot dogs, potato wedges, chicken strips, party bags and party sweet cones are available. Non-jumpers can enjoy a full view of all the activities and the party room from the AirLounge as they relax with cake and coffee.

Parties are available for 10-20 guests starting from just £10 each. Should you wish to have more than 20 people, you can contact AirJump to discuss exclusive hire. All parties need to be paid in full on booking. To make your birthday AJ Approved, contact 08006 771 502 or visit their website at www. airjumptrampolinepark.co.uk.

Blush

Parties & Balloons

Fabulous Party Venue in Bexley Village

Princess Pamper Party • Cake Decorating Party Bath Bomb Making Party • Pamper Craft Party • Slime Party School Holiday Workshops booking now Amazing Balloons available for any occasion - Birthdays, Baby Showers, Christenings Weddings or any celebration with the WOW factor!

Book with Julie on 01322 556677 or visit www.blushpartiesandballoons.co.uk Like us on Facebook and Instagram to keep updated on our offers!

48 Bexley High Street, DA5 1AH large car park to rear 10% DISCOUNT on any BALLOON order and 5% DISCOUNT on any PARTY booking until May 2018 when you mention this advert

AirJump Birthday Parties For children ages 3+ Children aged between 3-5 yrs will require an accompanying adult whilst on the trampolines.

£19.95 per child Each Party will include: – 1 hr Jump Session Under 6s Tots Party – Exclusive use of the Party room £10 per child Must be held in our dedicated – Party Host AirTots Session – Jump Socks for each child – Pizza or Hot Dogs Optional extras include: – Squash AirJump Birthday Cake, Sweet Cones, – Activity sheet Party bags, Wedges, Chicken Strips, Garlic Bread

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29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

17

I could not have done it without them. It does not feel like these are my grades. I am so happy with my Maths!” Parents have also joined in expressing their gratitude for Babington’s excellent performance.

Tim Lello, Headmaster, told Primary Times, “Our commitment to providing an academic and well-rounded education with small class sizes and an individual approach means we achieve the very best from all our pupils. This is reflected in the impressive results achieved at GCSE and A Level.”

As well as fantastic results in the Senior School, Babington has a thriving Preparatory School for boys and girls from 5 to 11 years old and the Nursery is top of the Bromley league table for Early Years Education for the second year running.

Babington House’s next Open Morning is on Saturday 3 March.

Register online now at www.babingtonhouse.com

Transition from Nursery to Reception

Education News

Bishop Challoner School is dedicated to good transition at all stages of the school, but this is especially important for pupils moving between Nursery and Reception. Carefully planned transition activities and taster days give children plenty of time to get used to Babington House School the Reception teacher and the Babington House Sixth Form received some fantastic A and AS Level environment they will be joining results last year. There was a 100% pass rate, with 100% achieving in September, making for a A - C in English and Maths. All the school’s Sixth Formers went seamless start in Reception Class. to University. At AS Level, pupils achieved 100% A - B in English, When they join Bishop Maths, Chemistry and Physics.

Challoner, in addition to the In their GCSE’s, Babington core curriculum in Reception, students achieved 92% 5 pupils also take part in specialist A* - C (9 – 4) including subject areas such as Music, PE, English and Maths and 71% Computing and French which are of all GCSE grades were taught by charismatic specialist A* - B (9 – 5), which are staff. Forest school has also been particularly impressive given introduced to the Reception the new grading. One pupil class this academic year. Children are encouraged to develop their told Primary Times, “I am so independence, safety and resilience skills in the Forest school site. happy. These results were Making the transition from Junior to Senior School is a big step definitely down to Babington.

02542_Babington_Primary_Times_AD_Layout 1 10/01/2018 22:32 Page 1 too and the admissions and induction process at Bishop Challoner

Bishop Challoner School

Babington House School

Shortlands

Independent Day School

Chislehurst, London Borough of Bromley BR7 5ES

Come and see for yourself

Open Morning Saturday 3rd March 18

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

www.babingto nhouse.com

Excellent in all areas and across every age group from 3 to 18

A Catholic Independent School for Girls & Boys 3-18 Years

OPEN MORNING

Saturday 3rd March 2018 9.00am -1.00pm Nursery ● Junior ● Senior ● Sixth Form Scholarships available

Welcoming all faiths

www.bishopchallonerschool.com to pre-register Follow us on Instagram - @primarytimesse

Education News

will guide you through every step of that journey. Taster sessions throughout the year, invitations to various events and a friendly welcome letter from a current year 7 buddy gives pupils a flavour of what life is like in senior school. The Induction Day in June offers a chance to meet the Head of Key Stage 3, buddies, teaching staff and to experience some fun lessons.

To find out more about enrolling your child at Bishop Challoner School, email admissions@bishopchallonerschool.com or visit www. bishopchallonerschool.com.

“Education in Heaven”

Explore Learning shared with Primary Times one member’s experience over his 4 years at one of their maths and English tuition centres in Urmston. Here is Aysin’s journey.

“Explore Learning is what I call education in heaven. The best place to learn new things and improve on things you already know. Similarly, school is the same but the only difference is Explore Learning helps you learn and perfect what you have learned in school.

The staff are kind and do their job extremely well. They are honestly the most helpful people you can find. I would definitely recommend anyone to join because it is fantastic to come here and everyone who is still in school deserves to join too.

Explore Learning to me is like a home. A home in which you are welcome. Each tutor is more helpful than the other.

I feel that a part of me has attached here. This place always had a calm atmosphere and makes me happier than ever.”

Explore Learning are 100% confident you’ll love it too, so why not see for yourself? Call 03301 243 801 to book your free trial at one of Explore Learning’s local centres. Alternatively, visit www. explorelearning.co.uk.

AGES 4-14

Voted no.1

PRIVATE TUITION CENTRE in the UK

More than just maths and English tuition

BOOST CONFIDENCE

MAKE PROGRESS

96% of parents said their child’s confidence improved as a result of coming to Explore.

Independently proven results, ensuring children progress academically, socially and attitudinally.

BE EXAM READY Preparing your child to sit the 11 Plus, a local entrance exam, the SATs or their end of term tests.

Haberdasher’s Aske’s Crayford Academy Iron Mill Lane, Crayford, Kent DA1 4RS Saturday trial sessions available for your child and Open School presentation

PUTTING GIRLS FIRST Open event 2018 ‘School in Action’ Morning 8 March, 9 am - 12 pm

INSPIRATION

CURIOSITY

DISTINCTION

A FEARLESS FUTURE

We develop a foundation of skills, supporting children of all abilities to succeed in school and beyond.

For more information visit

explorelearning.co.uk or call 033 0124 3801

FREE TRIAL SESSION !

EducationInvestor

Awards 2016

Your nearest centres are in Crayford, Greenwich, Orpington and Sidcup.

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Senior School: Junior School: @blackheathhigh info@bla.gdst.net info@bla.gdst.net blackheathhighschool 020 8853 2929 www.blackheathhighschool.gdst.net 020 8852 1537

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18 Primary Times Quarter Page - Feb 2018.indd 1

19 1/10/2018 1:21:29 PM

What’s On

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

February Nature Detectives, Sydenham Hill Wood, SE26 6LS 11am-4pm. Sharpen up your detective skills by going along to this fun day in the woods learning how to look for tracks and signs of animals. You will be making plaster casts and playing games using all the senses. Book on 020 3897 6151.

For more information visit www. wildlondon.org.uk

Wed 14 Feb

The Winter’s Tale Explored, Duffield Studio, National Theatre, SE1 9PX

11.30am–12.45pm and 1.15–2.30pm.

Take part in this lively family workshop and get a glimpse into the world of The Winter’s Tale. Discover the dances of the courts of Sicilia, travel through time to Bohemia and help Camilla choose between good and evil. Ages 7-12. To book visit www.nationaltheatre.org.uk

Discover the Story of Florence Nightingale, Florence Nightingale Museum, SE1 7EW 11.30am, 12.45pm and 2pm. Meet Miss Nightingale and hear all about how she became known as the ‘Lady with the Lamp’. Find out how she became a nurse, why she went to the Crimea and how she improved the conditions for the soldiers and nurses. For more information visit www.florence-nightingale.co.uk

Story Hunt, Crayford Library, DA1 4FN

11am-12noon. Join in for an actionpacked, interactive sensory adventure and pick up clues to create a magical story together. Also taking place at Welling Library 2-3pm. Ages 3-4. Part of the Book Buzz Literary Festival.

Free. For more information and to book visit www.bexleylibraries. eventbrite.com

Robotics Workshop, Central Library, Bexleyheath, DA6 7HJ

2.30-4.30pm. If you want to gain some experience in building a robot, why not book onto this robotics workshop? Ages 8+. Part of the Book Buzz Literary Festival. Free. To book visit www.bexleylibraries.eventbrite. com

Comic Arts Workshops, Sidcup Library, DA14 4AA

aim is to develop self-confidence and self-esteem through drama. Ages 8-11. Part of the Book Buzz Literary Festival. Free. To book visit www. bexleylibraries.eventbrite.com

Crazy about Cows, The Woodlands Farm Trust, Welling, DA16 3RP

1-3pm. Take part in the cow trail round the farm and make a valentine’s treat of a chocolate cow poo to take home, yummy! Charges apply. For more information visit www.thewoodlandsfarmtrust.org

Wed 14 – Fri 16 Feb

Holiday to Space, Royal Observatory Greenwich, SE10 8XJ

10-11.30am. After a 20 minute Space Safari show, learn more about Ted’s adventure in a workshop by choosing which planet would make a good holiday destination and help brave teddy bear prepare for his stay. Ages 4-7. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.rmg.co.uk/royalobservatory

Thurs 15 Feb

Dance Workshop, Central Library, Bexleyheath, DA6 7HJ 10.30am-12noon. Take part in this fun dance workshop inspired by the magic of Harry Potter. Ages 7+. Part of the Book Buzz Literary Festival.

Free. For more information and to book visit www.bexleylibraries. eventbrite.com

Carnival of Stories, Erith Library, DA8 1SL

11am-12noon. Take your children on a sensory journey starting in England in ‘Amazing Grace’, then onto Kenya in ‘Handa’s Surprise’ and finally to the Caribbean in ‘Island Counting’, with interactive activities based around these stories. Ages 3-4. Free. To book visit www.bexleylibraries.eventbrite. com

Greek Workshops, Crayford Library, DA1 4FN

12noon-1pm. Learn to decode Ancient Greek - the language of ancient gods and heroes. Then discover why dinosaurs have such strange names. Also taking place at Welling Library at 2.30-3.30pm. Ages 8-12. Part of the Book Buzz Literary Festival. Free. To book visit www. bexleylibraries.eventbrite.com

11am-12.30pm. Join in a fun comic arts workshop with Emily Fellah this Half Term. Also taking place at Crayford Library at 2-3.30pm.

Ages 8+. Part of the Book Buzz Literary Festival. Free. For more information and to book visit www. bexleylibraries.eventbrite.com

Drama Workshop, Thamesmead Library, SE2 9TR 3-4pm. An opportunity to take part in a drama class with the Helen O’Grady Drama Academy, whose

20

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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

”

Bag Book Session, Sidcup Library, DA14 4AA

2-3pm. A session with multi-sensory stories for people with learning disabilities. Part of the Book Buzz Literary Festival. Free. For more information visit www.bexley.gov.uk/ libraries

Winter Farm Explorers, The Woodlands Farm Trust, Welling, DA16 3RP

11am-3pm. This farm explorer’s session will be about winter at the farm. Find out what happens at the farm in winter as well as learn about animals tracks and trails, make a bird feeder and have a go at the winter scavenger hunt. For more information visit www.thewoodlandsfarmtrust.org

Thurs 15 – Fri 16 Feb

SMASHfest UK: Flood!, The Albany, Deptford, SE8 4AG

An extreme climate change has caused a huge flood which will overwhelm London. How can we prepare? What can we do? Join in this big adventure for all the family with comedy, music, games, experiments and lots more. For more information visit www.smashfestuk.com

Fri 16 Feb

Comic Arts Masterclass with Kev F. Sutherland, Central Library, Bexleyheath, DA6 7HJ

10am-12.30pm. Kev draws for comics like The Beano and Doctor Who Adventures, Match and Marvel. Go along and learn all you need to know to create comic strips and manga.

Also taking place at Erith Library 2-4.30pm. Ages 8+. Free. To book visit www.bexleylibraries.eventbrite.com

Musical Storytime, Central Library, Bexleyheath, DA6 7HJ 2-2.45pm and 3.30-4.15pm. Enjoy a musical storytime session with author Chitra Soundar. Chitra is the author of several picture books about Farmer Falgu. For ages 4–7 years. Part of the Book Buzz Literary Festival. Free. For more information and to book visit www. bexleylibraries.eventbrite.com

Get Wild in the Woods, The Woodlands Farm Trust, Welling, DA16 3RP

11am-1pm and 2-4pm. Join in the fun in the woods and learn how to survive in the wild. Have a go at shelter building, wild cooking over a fire and learn what animals need to survive. Ages 7+. Book on 020 8319 8900. For more information visit www.thewoodlandsfarmtrust.org

Sat 17 Feb

Family Learning Activity, Tower Bridge Exhibition, SE1 2UP 10.30am-4pm. Go along and enjoy some fun, hands on family activities at Tower Bridge. All activities are drop in and are free with admission.

Suitable for all ages but most appropriate for ages 6-10. For more information visit www.towerbridge. org.uk

The Year of the Dog, Unicorn Theatre, Southwark, SE1 2HZ 12noon-2pm. Celebrate Chinese New Year with colourful arts and dog themed crafts. Ages 3+.

For more information visit www. unicorntheatre.com

Discover the Story of Florence Nightingale, Florence Nightingale Museum, SE1 7EW 11.30am, 12.45pm and 2pm. Meet Miss Nightingale and hear all about how she became known as the ‘Lady with the Lamp’. Find out how she became a nurse, why she went to the Crimea and how she improved the conditions for the soldiers and nurses. For more information visit www.florence-nightingale.co.uk

M.G. Leonard, Central Library, Bexleyheath, DA6 7HJ

2-3pm. Go along and meet the award winning, bestselling, super-dooper, beetle loving, children’s author of ‘Beetle Boy’, ‘Beetle Queen’ and ‘Battle of the Beetles’. Ages 10+. Part of the Book Buzz Literary Festival.

Free. For more information and to book visit www.bexleylibraries. eventbrite.com

Morning Stars, Royal Observatory, SE10 8XJ

10-11.30am. Explore the night sky and find out live from a Royal Observatory Astronomer what is visible on the night of your visit and the month ahead. For children with an Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC) and their families and carers (Ages 7+). To book visit www.rmg. co.uk/royal-observatory

Sat 17 – Sun 18 Feb Chinese New Year Craft Workshops, Greenwich Market, SE10 9HZ

11am-3pm. Celebrate the Year of the Dog by making your own paper dog or a pretty paper Chinese lantern at these free origami workshops outside Papermoon in the Market. No need to book.

For more information visit www. greenwichmarket.london

Sun 18 Feb

Chinese New Year, Various Locations

The festivities kick off with a vibrant parade in and around Chinatown, followed by spectacular free stage performances in Trafalgar Square.

Enjoy martial art displays, familyfriendly cultural activities, music shows and traditional Chinese street food in different zones dotted around the West End. For more information visit www.london.gov.uk

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 28...

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Out of School Activities J’amies Gymnastics Academy

J’amies has been the biggest provider of Recreational Gymnastics in the South East for the last 10 years and they are extremely proud to say that they use the very best state of the art equipment at each venue.

J’amies have seven academies around the Bromley area as well as running in over 30 schools for morning, lunchtime or after school clubs. Starting from walking age, they have classes to suit every age and ability. If you have a pre-schooler, J’amies can cater for you during the day on Mondays at their Beckenham Spa Academy or on Saturdays at their Shirley Academy. For children aged 3 to 12, J’amies have locations to suit everyone and run throughout the week and on Saturday mornings.

J’amies really do have a range of classes to suit all and their classes are designed to be affordable. They understand parents can’t always afford to pay for classes termly and so they allow you to pay monthly and take payments automatically, so you don’t have to worry. Coaches are all professional and highly skilled and they are proud to have them working for J’amies.

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For more information on classes or to book a free trial session, visit the website www.jamiesgymnasticsacademy.co.uk, call the friendly admin team on 020 8464 1477 or you can email info@jgagroup.co.uk or even chat with J’amies live via the website.

D&B Academy of Performing Arts

D&B are celebrating their 30 year Anniversary this year. The Academy has been training children and young adults since 1988 in all areas of the Performing Arts. D & B train children who want to perform for a hobby as well as those who want to train to be become professional performers.

Some recent credits include Tilly Keeper (Louise Mitchell), Zack Morris (Keegan Baker) and Jacqueline Jossa (Lauren Branning) currently on screen every weekday evening in EastEnders. Matt Terry ended 2016 with a bang by winning The X Factor, Will Tilston hit the cinemas as ‘Christopher Robin’, Nick James won a BAFTA for his lead role as Hank Zipzer and Carma Hylton plays Candi-Rose in The Dumping Ground for CBBC. School of Rock, The Book of Mormon, Lion King, Motown, Matilda, Dreamgirls, Hairspray, Les Miserables, Harry Potter, Mamma Mia and

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

21

Out of School Activities

Wicked are just a few of the West End Musicals D&B students can be seen in. The Sullivan sisters, Donna and Bonnie, told Primary Times, ‘’We love our Academy. After all these years we still get excited when entering our Studios to see what exciting opportunities have come in. Our school is for everyone – all ages, all abilities. We are not a franchise. This is our only school which enables us to monitor and watch all of our students grow and develop.

In 2018 we want to continue inviting new students to join us and meet the new stars of the future. Please contact us on 020 8698 8880 or visit www.dandbperformingarts.co.uk.”

Angela’s Swim School

At Angela’s Swim School they encourage people of all ages and abilities to learn to swim to a high standard.

One of the best life skills you can help your children learn is how to swim and Angela’s recommend that you start your baby/child as early as possible.You can book and join their lessons from age four months. Even at this young age, by using movement and songs they work on building water confidence whilst teaching little ones all four swimming strokes.

Angela’s pride themselves on their small class sizes - only 4 children to 1 instructor. They also offer 1-2-1 private lessons for children and adults. Whether you are a beginner or want to brush up on your skills, they have lessons suitable for you.

Crash courses are also available.Visit their website at www. angelasswimschool.co.uk or email Angela’s for more information greenwichandsouthwark@angelasswimschool.co.uk or call the Greenwich and Southwark swim school on 07801 237 165.

Hospice Mini Marathon

X Factor researchers approached the theatre school after hearing about their local reputation and of course all pupils jumped at the chance to perform on the UK’s biggest entertainment show. It doesn’t get much better than mingling with the likes of Louis Walsh, Simon Cowell and Sharon Osbourne. The young pupils were very excited to meet the judging panel and dance alongside Dermot in the show’s opening ceremony in front of an audience of thousands.

For more information about All the Arts, who run affordable, professional weekday and weekend classes for ages 3-18 years with a free casting agency for TV and theatre, visit www.allthearts. co.uk or call 020 8850 2384.

Rugby Munchkins

The Rugby Munchkin programme has been designed to engage both boys and girls through rugby-themed games and skill sessions in a fun, safe and friendly sporting environment. The games encourage children to stretch their legs, run around pretending to be aircraft or fire engines or to use obstacle courses to develop their skills at balancing, changing direction and jumping.

At every stage fun is the first and foremost element of every class.

Through the use of fun themed games, Munchkins bring something different to their rugby classes that isn’t used elsewhere. All Rugby

On Sunday 29 April 1,500 children are expected to challenge themselves to complete a 2.62 mile sponsored run around Royal Greenwich Park. Taking place one week after the Virgin London Marathon, the Hospice Mini Marathon will once again put the fun back into fun running!

With a big emphasis on having fun, there is no pressure for children to run the whole way – they can dress up in their favourite fancy dress to walk, jog or run and, most important of all, enjoy the brilliant experience of taking part in the Hospice Mini Marathon.

The Hospice Mini Marathon is one tenth of the distance of a full marathon and is no less of a challenge for the thousands of children who have signed up over the years. All funds raised will help support the work of the Greenwich & Bexley Community Hospice.

There is a £7.50 per child registration fee and the children are encouraged to raise as much sponsorship as they can to support the work of the Hospice. Every child will receive a special Mini Marathon medal at the end.

For more details or to register a place at the Mini Marathon, visit www.communityhospice.org.uk

All the Arts Pupils have the X Factor

All the Arts theatre school are celebrating success after seven of their pupils were selected by Thames Television to perform at the X Factor Live final at Excel. The seven boys took to the stage in the opening sequence to the show alongside host Dermot O’Leary and were featured as ‘Dermotots’. Since then, X Factor fans across social media have been campaigning to make the boys a regular feature of the show.

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29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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Ballroom & Latin American Dance School ISTD Qualified Teacher •Children

Dance Yourself Fit

•Adults

Kerry on Dancing specialises in Ballroom and Latin American Dance. From venues in Lee, Hither Green and Blackheath, the school provides fun structured classes for all ages and abilities.

Teachers follow the ISTD Ballroom and Latin American syllabus and give pupils the opportunity to progress through the ISTD examination system and enter Medallist competitions if they wish.

The packed timetable includes a pre-school parent and child class (Baby Ballroom & Little Latin), fun classes for school age children plus a range of adult dance and high impact movement classes (Ballroom Burn). Private tuition is also available.

The benefits of Ballroom dance are endless.

It encourages team work, communication and social skills. It improves posture, body alignment, strength and flexibility. It’s also great for cardiovascular health and selfconfidence. Join in today, book your place and find out more at www.kerryondancing.co.uk or by emailing kerry@ kerryondancing.co.uk.

Out of School Activities

Munchkins classes combine a learning aspect together with physical skills. Toddlers rarely need a second invitation to stick out their tongues. Why not come along to one of our classes, stamp your feet, slaps your thighs and join in with the Munchkin Haka. “Munchkins, Munchkins, Munchkins, Munchkins, we can catch, we can pass, we can run super-fast. Munchkins, Munchkins, rain or sun. Munchkins, Munchkins we have fun.” Visit the website, www.munchkinsports.com or call 08000 235 801 to get your little Munchkins involved.

•Beginners •Advanced

•Dance Exams

•Competitions

•All Ballroom &

Latin Dances taught.

Venues in Lee, Hither Green & Blackheath www.kerryondancing.co.uk Tel: 07711 255932 email: kerry@kerryondancing.co.uk

Affordable professional training

As featured on the LIVE X FACTOR FINAL Now enrolling young performers ages 3-18 years www.allthearts.co.uk 020 8850 2384

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29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

23

G F R E E Z I N G P

N F H G L O V E O M

I C B D B D X M S R

T I L E K O P P N O

A T I L C O L D O T

K C Z S M W S D W S

S R Z H R E T N I W

E A A Q F R A C S O

C T R C R I J K C N

What did Frosty call his cow?

Eskimoo!

What do you call an old snowman?

Water!

Copy the Picture and Colour it in

I V D G O F T G L S

Can you find the following words in the word search Winter, Cold, Freezing, Snow, PomPomHat, Glove, Scarf, Fog, Blizzard, Sledge, Iceskating, Arctic, Snowstorm, Firewood

Answers

Winter Word Search

Spot the Differences

lown’s Winter Warmer

In picture B, the first hat and scarf set has two ends to the scarf, the 4th hat along has some eyes, the 5th scarf has lost its ends, the first hat in the second row has a pompom, the 2nd hat sets gloves have been flipped, the 4th hat has been changed to red. On the 3rd row the second hat includes sun glasses, the final hat has lost its pompom.

Katie

What do you get if you cross a snowman and a shark? Frost Bite!

Spot the Eight Differences

A

What is a snowman’s favourite drink?

Ice Tea!

Draw a picture of anything to do with Winter.

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

B

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: 2 March 2018.

Good Luck!

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29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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Win an Annual Pass to Leeds Castle

Imagine being able to visit Leeds Castle as many times as you want in a year, discovering something new and exciting about the historic attraction each time. You could do just that if you enter this exciting new competition to win a family annual pass.

Discover almost 900 years of history and explore 500 acres of beautiful parkland and gardens. The whole family will enjoy the maze and hidden grotto, punting on the moat, adventure playgrounds and more. The Bird of Prey Centre, located behind the Maze, is open on a daily basis and houses 30 birds of prey from a British Kestrel to Laughing Kookaburras from Australia. With all this and plenty more, a packed programme of special events awaits you throughout 2018 at Leeds Castle.

To be in with the chance of winning an annual pass to Leeds Castle, simply tell us which Australian birds live in Leeds Castle’s Bird of Prey centre? See below for entry details.

Win Signed Sets of Ross Welford’s Books

Competitions

Competitions Perfect for readers aged 9-11, Ross Welford’s series of exciting and hilarious children’s books will leave kids hooked. Win one of five signed sets of his children’s books and be captivated by the exciting and surprising worlds he has created.

With entertaining titles including Time Travelling with a Hamster, which follows a 12 year old on a race through time, and What Not to Do if You Turn Invisible, Ross’s latest novel will be as unusual, funny and full of heart as ever. The 1000 Year Old Boy tells the story of a 1000 year old, nearly teenage boy, who embarks on a mission to find friendship, acceptance and a different way to live in the modern world.

To be in with the chance of winning a signed set of Ross Welford’s books, simply tell us what animal the main character travels with in Welford’s first book? See below for entry details.

Win a PS4 with Tad the Lost Explorer After Sara Lavroff discovers one of the three gold rings from King Midas’ necklace, proving that this ruler who turned everything he touched into gold really did exist, Tad travels to Las Vegas to join his friend at the exhibition where this incredible archaeological discovery will be revealed for the first time ever. © 2018 Paramount Pictures. All Rights Reserved. Cert U. #Tad

Primary Times has one PS4 Slimline 500GB to give away to one lucky reader. To be in with a chance of winning, all you need to do is complete the word search. Then fill out the form with your details and send it to the address at the foot of the page.

R E R O L P X E E H K J C V A B A R R T Q U T R B R U R B G C X R V A T A D E O Z O M S N V Y F D L T L R E D T L G D D C X V K

I

D N A P W

B D T R T L E W E J A D S F S A D

Midas

•

Explorer

Gold Tad

• Kidnap • Sara

Bandits Parrot

• Jewel

• Adventure

I M K

Name.................................

Age................................... address............................. ....................................... school..............................

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 2 March.

If you are entering more than one competition you can put all entries in the same envelope.

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29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

25

Family Travel Ideas Top Trails for 2018 From Ranch Rider

With over 80 years combined experience in the saddle, the Ranch Rider team has its hoof to the ground when it comes to the best riding holidays in the USA. So, where to hit the trail in 2018? From new cultural cowgirl getaways to award winning horseback safaris, the specialist has rounded up the latest news and a list of the best equine escapes for the year ahead.

Arizona made Lonely Planet’s top ten list of best value destinations for 2018 and with seven nights at Tucson’s White Stallion priced from only £1,135pp (two sharing) and from £925pp (4 to 11 years), riding holidays at the guest ranch will be a steal for families travelling over the main summer holidays.

While temperatures can soar into the late 30s during July and August, the ranch boasts an outdoor pool complete with spectacular mountain views and plenty of shady spots where you can escape the heat. Families are welcome on the ranch’s guided Petroglyph Hike through Saguaro National Park where they can learn about ancient forms of communication and the Hohokam Indians, who inhabited the area from 250 through 1450 A.D. Seven night ranch stays include accommodation, meals, most ranch activities, taxes, transfers and gratuities. Excludes return flight from £879pp. Find out more at www.ranchrider.com.

See Spain in Cherry Blossom Season

If you visit the Valle del Jerte in Extremadura in South West Spain in late March, you will see over one million cherry trees in blossom covering the mountainsides in swathes of white.Trujillo Villas Espana, with five restored villas in the Medieval town of Trujillo, is introducing new cherry experiences for their guests to see this local phenomenon, pick cherries and experience this beautiful time of year in the picturesque surroundings of Southern Spain.

Trujillo Villas Espana is offering guests a private guided drive through the valley with time out to walk along the trails that wind between the cherry trees and villages and take in the beauty of the landscape.The tours will include views of the cherry blossom in the spring and cherry picking later on in the season, when guests can pick cherries straight from the trees in the traditional way and take home a 2kg box per person.

Trujillo is a medieval walled hilltop town overlooking the plains of Extremadura, still relatively untouched by modernity and tourism. Stay in the unique Villa Piedras Albas, a restored palace on Trujillo’s main square, built in 1530.The villa has characterful interiors, grand stonework and finely carved beamed ceilings.

A Florentine arched loggia overlooks the square, ideal for al fresco dining and there is also a private walled garden with lemon trees and a swimming pool.

For prices and availability, head to www.trujillovillasespana.com.

Children’s Travel Book of the Year As part of the annual Edward Stanford Travel Writing Awards, six books have been shortlisted to compete for Children’s Travel Book of the Year. From a thoughtprovoking exploration of what it means to be part of planet Earth to a collection of animal tales perfect for a bedtime story, these books will inspire young adventurers.

The shortlist includes multi-award-winning authors such as Oliver Jeffers with his #1 New York Times Bestseller and #1 TIME Best Book of the Year for 2017, Here We Are, described as ‘An optimistic snapshot of contemporary life, this heartfelt hug of a book ought to become a classic’ by The Guardian.

Your kids will love getting stuck into these adventurous tales, including Katherine Rundell’s The Explorer, about

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29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

children fulfilling their dreams of becoming worldrenowned explorers in the Amazon rainforest and The Picture Atlas by Simon Holland, which shows children a colourful natural world to discover. Kids will marvel at the physical planet with The Earth Book by Jonathan Litton, be captivated by classic tales featuring creatures big and small in A World Full of Animal Stories by Angela McAllister and follow a mystical guide to the night sky with What We See in the Stars by Kelsey Oseid.

The winner of the Children’s Travel Book of the Year, as well as a number of other categories, will be announced at a ceremony in February. Have a look at the shortlists online at www.edwardstanfordawards.com.

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Experience the Joy of Being a Toy

Everyone is invited to join the heroes of Toy Story in an all-new land filled with larger-than-life adventures.

This summer, Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida will introduce the newest addition to Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Toy Story Land, a whimsical place located in the larger-than-life setting of Andy’s backyard. This is your chance to discover what it’s like to be a toy with all-new attractions, quick-and-easy dining options and so much more.

Amid a colourful landscape filled with giant building blocks and game board pieces, you’ll be immersed in an experience straight out of Andy’s vivid imagination—together with Woody, Buzz, Slinky Dog, Rex, the Aliens and many other beloved Toy Story Characters.

Slinky Dog is ready to take you for a wild ride on a crazy coaster— one that gives you a glimpse of all that Toy Story Land has to offer.

Come along as Slinky Dog bends and twists his coils around curves, hills, bridges and drops. Hang on tight as your toy rocket ride takes off on a dizzying adventure through space with the Alien Swirling Saucers – if you’re really lucky, you might just get “chosen” by the claw.

Andy is away and it’s time to play at one of the most popular attractions at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Toy Story Mania. Head inside and slip under Andy’s bed where the toys have set up their carnival playset. Then, blast your way through targets, using everything from baseballs to cream pies. Make sure you practice your aim because high-score bragging rights are on the line.

Get ready to shrink down and join your Toy Story friends for some fun that never ends, only at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. For more information, visit www.disneyworld.disney.go.com

Give-Back on Your Travels in 2018

Award winning ethical luxury family travel specialist Hands Up Holidays has trips for families to travel and give back and help those less fortunate.All trips are 100% tailor-made to enable travellers to create their ideal ethical luxury family trip that changes lives, not just their own.

Incorporating an element of ‘giving back’ to a luxury family trip is a powerful way to bring families together, and also for children to appreciate how fortunate they are and get immersed in another culture in a safe context.When this is combined with fantastic activities and relaxation, it makes for a memorable and meaningful way to fulfil your resolutions for 2018.

Hands Up Holidays offers trips in 40 countries around the world, combining luxury family travel with an emphasis on sustainability and helping those less fortunate. Help conserve sea turtles and elephants in Sri Lanka, serve meals to refugees in Rome or help build a home for a needy family in Zimbabwe.

Help young people with afterschool homework during an action-packed holiday in St Lucia, assist at a riding centre for the disabled in Texas while exploring the USA or get up close to the impressive wildlife in Costa Rica at a rescue centre for injured, orphaned or illegally traded animals.

All of these trips are suitable for families, and can be tailor-made to suit your preferences, such as length of trip, activity, and accommodation. Start planning your sustainable family holiday at www.handsupholidays.com.

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From Paddington to Peru

Peru will be firmly in the spotlight this year for family holidays following the hugely successful film release of Paddington 2 and with the 60th anniversary of the publication of Michael Bond’s first Paddington Bear book coming up in October, there’s no place better to celebrate than in Paddington’s original home.

To mark the occasion, Journey Latin America has launched an adventurous 14-day From Paddington to Peru family holiday offering holidaymakers the unique opportunity to meet and learn about the endangered spectacled bears in their own environment.

The enchanting, loveable bear from ‘darkest Peru’ who ended up in Paddington Station may not know much about his native land, but would no doubt enjoy this holiday which is ideal for all the family. Offering the chance to see real live Peruvian spectacled bears in their own natural environment, the holiday also explores magnificent Inca ruins with a backdrop of snow-spangled Andean peaks in the Sacred Valley of the Incas and at Machu Picchu, further downstream, where the Urubamba river crashes towards the Amazon basin.

Much like the eponymous Paddington, this family holiday is quirky and fun. With a mixture of unusual wildlife and classic highlights, it’s a great holiday for children and for parents who are looking for something a bit different. Prices start from £3,807 per person for a two week trip excluding international flights. Plan your trip today at www.journeylatinamerica.co.uk.

Photo credit: Journey Latin America

Best Luxury Family Beach Resort in the World

The multiple award-winning resort, and pioneer of tourism in the Maldives, Kurumba Maldives, has been recognised as 2017’s Best Luxury Family Beach Resort in the World by the World Luxury Hotel Awards.

With a variety of entertainment, facilities, activities and social events, there is plenty on offer for families at the resort. Set on a tropical island in the North Malé Atoll, Kurumba Maldives is conveniently situated a brief 10 minute speed boat ride from the airport. Dotted with coconut trees that are the island’s namesake, Kurumba was the first private island resort in the Maldives, opening its doors in 1972. Beautiful gardens, palm fringed white sandy beaches and a vibrant house reef are the hallmarks of this classic Maldivian resort.

The resort offers an array of eight styles of accommodation, ranging from comfortable Superior rooms to the spacious Royal Residence, spread amongst the island’s lush tropical gardens with easy access to the beach. With eight different restaurants to choose from, Kurumba Maldives will charm you with its unparalleled choice of dining experience and a wide range of recreation activities and entertainment. All while maintaining idyllic refuges and quiet spaces for relaxation activities. Plan your luxury family beach vacation today by heading to www.kurumba. com.

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

27

What’s On

More What’s On

“

I saw your event in Your family diary for February and March Primary Times....

Please mention you FUNharmonics Family Concert, saw the event listed in Southbank Centre’s Royal Primary Times Mon 19 Feb–Sat 31 Mar

February

Defend the Tower!, Tower of London, EC3N 4AB

11.30am, 1.30pm and 3.30pm.

England’s greatest medieval fortress, is under attack from all sides! You must help the heroic guards defend the mighty castle against its most dangerous enemies from 200 years of medieval conflict. For more information visit www.hrp.org.uk/ tower-of-london

Sat 24 Feb

Sandcastle Art, Unicorn Theatre, Southwark, SE1 2HZ 12noon-2pm. The favourite sandy show is back and you’ll be building sandcastles to celebrate.

Watch Seesaw and then join in for some sandy art. Ages 3+. For more information visit www. unicorntheatre.com

Sun 25 Feb

Paddington 2 Funday, BFI Southbank, SE1 8XT

At 11am there will be a drop-in Paddington themed arts and crafts workshop in the foyer followed by screening of Paddington 2 at 1pm.

For more information and to book visit whatson.bfi.org.uk

Festival Hall, SE1 8XX

12noon. The London Philharmonic Orchestra invites you to a supersized orchestral party celebrating the best of young music-making. There will also be Free FUNharmonics activities: 10am–12 noon. For more information and to book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

Low Tide Walk, Creekside Discovery Centre, Deptford, SE8 4SA

2-4pm. Wade in a wild river and experience a different perspective of London history and urban wildlife.

Ages 9+. For more information and to book visit www.creeksidecentre. org.uk

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

March Thurs 1 Mar

”

World Book Day, Nationwide

Join in this celebration of authors, illustrators, books and (most importantly) a celebration of reading.

For more information, fun stuff, news and games visit www.worldbookday. com

Sat 3 Mar

Free Open Day, Pauline Quirke Academy, The John Roan, Greenwich, SE3 7QR

9.45am-1pm. Following a brief introduction the children will be divided into age groups and will get the chance to sample classes in musical theatre, comedy, drama, film and television. A great way for your child to get a flavour of the academy.

For more information visit www. pqacademy.com

Sample, Greenwich Peninsula, SE10 0ES 11am-6pm. Go along to London’s most vibrant urban market which showcases the latest emerging

creatives from the worlds of fashion, beauty, art, design and homewares, alongside a seasonal food market of fresh ingredients. Free entry.

For more information visit www. greenwichpeninsula.co.uk

Sandcastle Art, Unicorn Theatre, Southwark, SE1 2HZ

(Also 10 Mar) 12noon-2pm. The favourite sandy show is back and you’ll be building sandcastles to celebrate. Watch Seesaw and then join in for some sandy art. Ages 3+.

For more information visit www. unicorntheatre.com

Sun 4 Mar

The Little Half, Various Locations

Starting at 12.45pm at Southwark Park. A fun, family friendly mass participation event that will see 4,000 people come together to take on a 2.4 mile course, part of the Big Half Festival. The Little Half is not a race so you can just take part and have fun. For more information and to apply visit www.thebighalf.co.uk

Sat 10 Mar

Low Tide Walk, Creekside Discovery Centre, Deptford, SE8 4SA

11am-1pm. Wade in a wild river and experience a different perspective of London history and urban wildlife.

Ages 9+. For more information and to book visit www.creeksidecentre. org.uk

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 30...

Painting Pebbles

Painting is a great activity that you can do with the kids – fun, creative and suitable for the whole family. It’s also great to do when you’re stuck indoors on a rainy day. Or you can incorporate this fun activity with a nature walk, and have something to keep as a souvenir at the end of it. On your next walk, take a bucket with you and get children to pick their favourite pebbles as they go – the quirkier the better! Children love the idea of a scavenger hunt, and this way they can make mini masterpieces out of what they find.

Once you have your pebbles and are back home, you will need poster or acrylic paint, some paintbrushes, a glass of water, a colour mixing dish and some clear nail varnish.

Alternatively you can buy a Stone Painting Kit from www.onbuy.com for just £6.49.

To make your pebble picture: 1. Put on your painting apron and lay newspaper on the table so as not to get paint anywhere.

2. Choose where your pebble is going to go or what it is going to be used for – you could make them as gifts with people’s names on.

3. Design the stone.You could do this on paper first so when you get painting you know exactly what you are going to do.

4. Paint the stone with your design. For detailed designs, artists can do several layers of painting, allowing each one to dry before adding the next. Don’t forget to sign your artwork at the end.

5. Allow the paint to dry and then cover it with a layer of clear nail varnish. This will protect your design and give it a shiny finish.

6. Once the stone is dry, it is ready to be used.

Painted pebbles can be used for all sorts of different things. Pebbles with nature designs are great for brightening up the garden, or personalised ones can be given as creative gifts and party favours.You could even glue a magnet to the back of the pebble and make it into a fridge magnet. Just make sure the pebble is light! For more practical uses, larger pebbles make great paperweights and tiny pebbles can be made into unusual jewellery.

The latest craze sweeping the nation is artists leaving painted pebbles with encouraging messages on in their local areas. Members of the public can find the pebbles and re-hide them, ready for someone else to enjoy. Get children in touch with nature as well as their creative side with the new painting craze sweeping the nation.

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29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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An Interview with Lisa Thompson Lisa Thompson, author of The Goldfish Boy, has just released her second book, The Light Jar. A story of fear and hope, loneliness and friendship – the Light Jar is full of heart, engaging characters and propulsive mystery. Nate and his mother are running away, hiding out in a tumbledown cottage in the middle of a forest. When Mum heads off for provisions and then doesn’t return, Nate is left alone and afraid. But comfort can come from the most unexpected places – a mysterious girl trying to solve the clues of a treasure hunt and the reappearance of an old friend from the past.

The Light Jar is a brilliant mix of page-turning tension and heart-warming relationships leaving you beaming as you’re reading. Rachel Benson from Primary Times spoke to Lisa just after the book’s release.

When writing The Light Jar, what message did you want to leave your readers with?

I think that you can find hope in the most unexpected of places, and not to be too judgemental of people.You may not know what has happened in the past and Nate judges people when he doesn’t know what’s going on in their lives.

Which characters do you most relate to and why?

There’s a little bit of me in everyone. Nate’s freaky facts book was very much my kind of thing. I used to love all of those weird books and I would bore my parents to tears with them! I suppose I’m more like Nate and his Mum in trying to make the best of things, I’m quite good at that. In a bad situation I like to look on the bright side. Nate doesn’t always do that, but he does cope in his own way and I think I’d be the same.

The Light Jar is available online and from all good high street retailers for £6.99.

For more information visit, lisathompsonauthor.com.

Your book ‘The Goldfish Boy’ is also available as an audiobook.

Will The Light Jar be available in this format too?

I don’t know!

I love the radio, and listening to podcasts. There are so many books I want to read and no time to do it, and I think with audiobooks it’s the power of your ears that make it so special. Listening is like reading a book, you create the pictures in your mind. I don’t think we realise the power of the medium.

What inspires you when writing your books?

I find music really inspiring to listen to when writing.

I never used to because I thought you shouldn’t, but I remember reading that Stephen King listens to loud rock music when he writes, and then I read about more and more authors who listen to music so they can zone out of the world.

The Light Jar came about from a tweet I read.

Somebody tweeted ‘There are no ghosts, just imaginary friends who have been abandoned’. It made me wonder what happened to imaginary friends when they’re not needed anymore and it spiralled from there. A couple of lines can be enough to push you to write a full length novel.

Was there a particular soundtrack you listened to when writing The Light Jar? There were two songs that I listened to all the time.

One was the main theme from The Revenant, it’s a really haunting theme. I listened to that a lot in the really bleak parts of the book, and Mr Blue Sky was for the uplifting parts. It’s even referenced in one of the scenes.

Have you got any advice for any young, budding writers?

I found that writing was a way to live out a dream.

Try short stories. The Goldfish Boy came from one so you never know where they’re going to lead. Write something that you want to read, don’t try and write to fit a formula. That way you may find it easier to do.

What is next for you?

I’m writing book three now, which is hopefully out this time next year… if I finish it in time!

What’s On

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

March

Fri 16 – Sun 18 Mar

Mothers’ Day, Greenwich Market, SE10 9HZ

Make something beautiful for Mum to show her just how much you love her at these free craft workshops.

For more information visit www. greenwichmarket.london

Sun 11 Mar

Wondrous Woodlands Dads’ Day, Sydenham Hill Wood, SE26 6LS

11am-4pm. A free fun family day for fathers and their children learning about the trees in Sydenham Hill Wood, making dens and gathering around a fire for marshmallows.

Book on 020 3897 6151. For more information visit www.wildlondon. org.uk

London St Patrick’s Day Festival 2018, Various Locations in Central London

A three day festival which will include amongst other activities, an Irish Community and Culture Festival, film screenings, a Schools art project, children’s treasure trails as well as the St Patrick’s Day Parade and St Patrick’s Day on Trafalgar Square. For more information visit www.london. gov.uk

Sat 17 Mar

Mini Maestro Family Concert, St Martin in the Fields, WC2N 4JJ 4.30-5.30pm. Go on a journey through Mozart’s marvellous

Mothers’ Day Afternoon Tea, Charlton House, SE7 8RE 1-4pm. Royal Greenwich Heritage Trust are hosting a very special Botanical Afternoon Tea within the historic setting of Charlton House.

To book email office@rght.org.uk.

For more information visit www. greenwichheritage.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

“

I saw your event in Primary Times....

Please mention you saw the event listed in Primary Times

”

symphony and hear the instruments telling a story – with a sprinkling of Handel’s Water Music. For more information and to book visit www. stmartin-in-the-fields.org

Sat 17 – Fri 23 Mar

Sport Relief, Nationwide

Whether you run, walk or even dance, whatever moves you, do it for Sport Relief and help change lives.

To get a head start, pre-order your free Fundraising Pack. For more information visit www.sportrelief. com

Sat 24 Mar

The Cancer Research UK Oxford and Cambridge Boat Races, Various Locations

4.31pm and 5.31pm. Watched by thousands along the banks of the Tideway, between Putney and Mortlake in London, and by millions more on TV, The Cancer Research UK Boat Races are a unique sporting event between two rowing crews from Oxford and Cambridge universities. For more information visit www.theboatraces.org

Sun 25 Mar

Library Lion, Deptford Lounge, SE8 4RH 1pm and 3pm. Everyone knows rules have to be followed, especially in libraries. No running allowed. And you must be quiet. But what would happen if a lion came to storytime?

With songs, laughter, lots of joining in, and maybe even a big furry hug.

Ages 4+. To buy tickets visit www. thealbany.org.uk

Our next copy deadline is

2 March 2018.

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

listings@ primarytimes.biz

World Book Day 2018: Save the Date The world’s biggest celebration of reading for pleasure, World Book Day, returns on Thursday 1 March. On a mission to encourage children and young people to read and love books, World Book Day will once again play host to a stellar line-up of authors, illustrators and events across the country for its 21st annual celebration.

This year’s theme ‘Share a Story’ intends to mobilise the nation to ‘Take 10’ and recognise the positive impact that reading together for only 10 minutes a day can have on a child’s learning. Parents, teachers and children are encouraged to go beyond dressing up on World Book Day to reignite a love of shared reading and the sense of wellbeing that it brings.

As always, there will be exciting new books from bestselling children’s authors and illustrators for children to explore, including 11 titles released for just £1. Children can purchase these using their World Book Day tokens and set off on their 2018 reading adventure. With titles suited to a range of different ages and abilities, from classics like Mr Men and Paddington Books to new releases from Clare Balding and Tom Fletcher for more advanced readers, there is something for everyone.

Alongside activity on World Book Day itself, the charity will also be running a national tour of author/illustrator events around the country in ‘The Biggest Book Show on Earth’, from 26 February to 3 March, and bringing back the incredibly successful World Book Day Award (WoBoD) for the fourth time. The WoBoD competition involved over 76,000 children, their families and communities in 2017 and £25,000 of Walker books were won.

World Book Day marks the world’s biggest celebration of reading, where the nation’s entire book industry comes together to work proactively to address falling literacy levels and create the readers of the future. Last year, over £650,000 was raised for charity by World Book Day and over 1.2 million £1 book tokens were redeemed, enabling 1 in 4 children (1 in 3 for those receiving free school meals) to ‘purchase’ their first ever book.

Book tokens will be sent out to schools across the UK and Ireland in late February and can be used to claim a free World Book Day title in participating bookshops and supermarkets until 25 March.Visit www.worldbookday. com to see the full list of books and events.

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29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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