West Sussex October Half Term 2021 Primary Times by Alison Watson

What’s On Where

FOR FAMILIES OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN

West Sussex

 Sumptuous, impressive, a truly lovely show METRO

Pinocchio at CFT this Christmas

18 December – 1 January 2022 | Tickets from £10 & Family Tickets available

Find out more at cft.org.uk DAYS OUT • COMPETITIONS • THEATRE & MORE...

OCTOBER HALF TERM 2021 11 OCT - 28 NOV 2021 - ISSUE 137

t ’ a s h N ew W

Festive Fun for Everyone with Water Rokit!

This Christmas get your kids outside with an exciting and hands-on, science-based Water Rokit. Hinterland’s original water rocket has been entertaining and educating children, teenagers, parents and teachers around the world for decades. Its simple assembly makes it perfect for science experiments or for pure fun out in the fresh air - with kids racing to collect rockets from far afield. All you need, alongside your Water Rokit kit, is a used plastic carbonated drinks bottle, a bicycle pump and some water (try and use recycled water).The water rocket flies really fast and high into the air. It can reach the height of a ten-storey building! You have to see it to believe it. Newton’s Laws of Motion in front of your very eyes. To find out more, visit www.waterrokit.com.

Christmas Craft Book

Christmas is such an exciting time that it can be hard to know what to do with all that Santa-fuelled energy. Luckily GMC Publications has the answer, the Christmas Craft Book by Laura Minter & Tia Williams! This new book from the award-winning blogging mums, channels that festive power into fabulous fun-ﬁlled crafts! Suitable for kids and parents with little crafting experience, these simple projects are just the thing to spread Christmas cheer and make your home ready for the holiday season. From binoculars for keeping watch for Santa to puppets for putting on festive shows, there is a wide selection of crafts to keep children occupied and entertained right up till Christmas Day.The Christmas Craft Book is available online and in shops for £12.99 and is particularly suitable for ages 4-8.

Dodo ‘World of Animals’ Observation Puzzle

The Dodo ‘World of Animals’ Observation Puzzle (£7.99) is an exciting educational puzzle that includes 80 pieces and is the perfect gift for children ages 5+. The colourful image details many of the various animal breeds that can be found across the globe. It’s educational and great fun – the perfect activity for Boxing Day. Once the puzzle is built, it will reveal a fun ‘ﬁnd and seek’ picture border for added play value, encouraging children to then identify where on the world map those animals can be found. The puzzle is available from www.halilit.co.uk , from high street toyshops or online.

Endangered Animal Bingo

Learn about 64 threatened species that need our help with Endangered Animal Bingo by Magma, illustrated by Marcel George.This family friendly game is packed with astonishing and beautiful creatures from all over the world.What unites them all? They are under threat. But there’s still time! Learn about the okapi, the whale shark and the southern sea otter and be inspired to take action. A proportion of proceeds are donated to the WWF who are dedicated to saving these animals and their habitats. Endangered Animal Bingo is available at www.laurenceking.com.

Try Goat Yoga

You may have heard of Goat Yoga, though you may be very grateful that you haven’t! But if you like goats and you’re partial to a bit of yoga this game is deﬁnitely for you. If you look on YouTube you might see various people doing yoga with goats, however, this is much more fun for all the family and you won’t end up with goat poop on your carpet. In this hilarious party game, players perform real yoga poses while completing ridiculous challenges with an inﬂatable goat - from balancing the goat on your head, to batting it in the air, to bleating the tune of a song. Don’t worry, real goats are not needed, just a sense of fun and some unusual balancing techniques. Goat Yoga is available from the Unusual Gift Company, www.theunusualgiftcompany.com, at £18.99.

So Slime DIY Ice Cream Factory

Innovative and fun, the So Slime DIY Ice Cream Factory from Canal Toys lets you create squishy slime ice creams with lots of extra decoration. Get creative and make three different textured slimes including ﬂuffy, icee and scented – a completely different way to enjoy slime! Use the ice cream factory mixer to help you get the perfect texture. Pour and press it into the ice cream mould.Then press down and squeeze your slime into the mini cup, use the turntable to create a fabulous swirling effect. Mix the different slimes together to create the perfect slime sundae! The So Slime DIY Ice Cream Factory is available in store and online at a recommended price of £21.99.

The Bear and her Book

A bear marched out on a moonlit night, Her fur was thick and her eyes were bright. She sniffed the air and she licked a paw — She loved her home, but she wanted more. In The Bear and her Book by Frances Tosdevin and Sophia O’Connor, a book-loving bear sets off to see the world. She takes one special thing—her Bear’s Big Book of Being Wise. But when she meets different creatures, each needing her help, she discovers that books aren’t just brilliant at ﬁxing problems—they can also help you make new friends. And if you’re lucky, books can take you to a very special place indeed… The Bear and her Book is published in paperback by UCLan Publishing at £7.99.

Dear Readers Primary Times in West Sussex 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG Tel: 01273 916210 Email: office@primarytimes.biz Website: www.primarytimes.co.uk Twitter: @PT_Sussex Instagram: @primarytimesse Publishing Editor: Peter Watson Sales: Catherine Dillon, Ty Smith, Andrew Langridge & My Yen Doyle Listings: Claire Wood, Hayley Hughes Production: Alison Watson Office Manager: Chris Blower Administrator: Claire Wood Social Media: Rachel Benson Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in infant and primary schools throughout Sussex. 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 Sussex 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 West Sussex is operated under franchise licence.

Welcome to the first half term issue of the year. For all our new readers we publish two weeks before each school holiday so once you see us appear in school you know a break is on it’s way. There are so many things to do during half term from activities in local parks and family friendly farms, sports clubs, craft clubs, multi activity day camps, museums, galleries and so much more. This half term magazine also covers Halloween and Fireworks Night. Whatever you end up doing, have fun! We prepare our listings a long time in advance so do remember to check each event before turning up, especially with all the Covid19 uncertainty. If you’re going to have some fireworks then read the following from the British Fireworks Association. • Do not buy fireworks from unlicenced retailers. These fireworks may be unsafe and illegal • Only buy fireworks that comply with current safety standards • Always keep fireworks in a closed box. Take them out one at a time and close the box. • Never put fireworks in your pocket • Be considerate. Let your neighbours know you will be having a display, especially if they are elderly or they have pets or children • Avoid setting fireworks off late at night, particularly if it is a school-night • Ensure your pets are safe • Carefully follow the instructions on each firework • Never go back to a lit firework unless the instructions advise otherwise • Never throw fireworks; it is dangerous. • Light fireworks one at a time, at the end of the fuse, and at arm’s length • Light sparklers one at a time and wear suitable gloves, even when lighting them • Never give sparklers to a child under the age of 5• Never throw spent fireworks on a bonfire. For more advice visit www.britishfireworksassociation.co.uk

Contents

inside this issue.... Local News...............................4 Family Theatre..........................6 Fun Days Out with the Family..8 Katie Clown..................................12 Competitions............................ 13 What’s On............................... 14 Film Preview Guide..................17 All Your Own Work!.................23

Peter and the Primary Times team

How One School Is Using the Power of Reuse to Inspire Pupils to Recycle

Primary Times spoke to teacher Dennis Hollywood from Charlton Manor Primary School in Greenwich who shared his school’s strategy to engage pupils to get passionate about recycling. From compost heaps to arts and crafts, Dennis shared how they’re bringing sustainability into the classroom. “There is a need for schools, now more than ever, to prepare students for their future and the challenges that come with it. As a primary school teacher, I know that encouraging pupils to think about issues around recycling at an early age is essential as it gives them the skills they need to guarantee a future for themselves. “One of the most important aspects of how we teach recycling is to first ensure that the materials we use in school can be recycled. By educating pupils and families on the less traditional products that can be recycled, eg pens and ink cartridges, we can ensure that these good habits continue in and out of school. In our school, we have various recycling bins for different items and we not only teach students how to recycle but also how to reuse products. We’ve organised arts and crafts competitions for our pupils and have seen so many inventive entries made from recyclable materials such as bottles and paper cups. “The recycling programme at Charlton Manor comes directly from our teachers. Recycling is at the centre of our school ethos and this has really helped us to attract staff that understand the importance of sustainability and want to find new ways of introducing it into our school. Resources such as the WRAP Action Pack really help students to understand the importance of recycling in a fun and

interactive way. Using these types of resources can really help students to be more action-driven and it helps them understand how the small changes they make can have an impact on a global scale. “Our school chef, Joe, teaches the importance of recycling in the kitchen by showing our pupils the benefits of reusing food they would otherwise throw away. Anything that can’t be used such as egg shells and bones are all recycled. Joe teaches pupils how older fruits and vegetables can be used to make soups and chutneys as well as how to compost foods and fertilise the school gardens. Taking what they’ve learned from school and putting it into practice in their own family kitchens, pupils have the opportunity to develop long term habits that can last them the rest of their lives.” Charlton Manor worked with Recycle Now who have developed a WRAP Action Pack which offers a way for teachers to effortlessly bring recycling into the classroom with lots of ideas for incorporating recycling into the curriculum in a fun and instructive way. Download a free copy from schools.recyclenow.com. 11 Oct - 28 Nov ‘21

Local News

Chichester Cathedral to Host the Museum of the Moon

If You’re Feeling Anxious, You’re Not Alone!

The last 18 months have been challenging for everyone and there has been an understandable increase in anxiety amongst parents of young children. There has been a lot to worry about! At the Parenting with Anxiety Project at the University of Sussex, they are focused on finding ways to help parents and children navigate the world with confidence. They know that is not always easy, but they believe it is possible. If you feel anxious you may find yourself feeling worried about your children. You may be concerned that they are feeling anxious too. The project has been working in the NHS with parents who have these worries and have found that with the right support they can help their children become more confident. They now want to find out if parents and children will benefit from an 8-module online course. If you would describe yourself as high in anxiety and have a child aged 2-11 they would love you to join them. Half of the parents will do the course and the others will just answer questions. Whichever way you take part, you’ll play an important role in helping children with anxiety. To find out more and to sign up, visit www.parentingwithanxiety.org.uk

Chichester Cathedral will host Luke Jerram’s touring artwork, the Museum of the Moon, from this October. Measuring seven metres in diameter, the Museum of the Moon features detailed NASA imagery of the lunar surface. Each centimetre of the internally-lit spherical sculpture represents approximately 5km of the moon’s surface. The installation, which will be on display within the Cathedral’s Nave, is a fusion of lunar imagery and surround sound. Over its lifetime, the Museum of the Moon will be presented in a number of different ways both indoors and outdoors, altering the experience and interpretation of the artwork. The piece will be accompanied by a programme of events, concerts and late-night openings, delivered by a variety of organisations, including the South Downs Planetarium, Chichester’s Novium Museum and the West Sussex Library Service, encouraging people far and wide to celebrate the night skies of Sussex. Activities for children and families will also be made available from October Half Term. The Museum of the Moon will be on display from 25 October – 14 November. Entry to the Cathedral is free, and donations are welcome. For more information, please visit www.chichestercathedral.org.uk. Photo credit: James Billings, 2019 at Ely Cathedral

Safe in Sussex Gingerbread House Competition

Could you decorate a gingerbread house for charity? Safe in Sussex’s Gingerbread House Fun is back. They have three competitions. There will be both adult and children’s Gingerbread House Decorating Competition (packs need to be pre-ordered and decorated before the event) and a Freestyle Gingerbread House Decorating Competition for anyone who makes their own gingerbread house creations from scratch. The display and judging will be on Saturday 11 December at St Oscar Romero Catholic School in Goring-by-Sea The business/community groups Gingerbread House Competition, is also back for the 4th year, but this event will be held on Friday 10 December at 12 noon on Zoom. Safe in Sussex provides a range of services across West Sussex to help those experiencing or at risk of domestic abuse, with the overarching aim of ending domestic abuse through freedom and education. The charity has confidential refuge provision and a community refuge in Littlehampton.

11 Oct - 28 Nov ‘21

Be a Road Safety Hero

Brake, the road safety charity, has announced ‘Road Safety Heroes’ as the theme for Road Safety Week 2021. Registrations are now open. They are encouraging all road users, families, schools and organisations to sign up to take part in this year’s campaign. The UK’s biggest road safety event takes place from 15 to 21 November with thousands of schools, nurseries and educational organisations getting involved across the UK. Road Safety Week is the perfect opportunity to teach life-saving skills to children of all ages using the free teaching resources available to everyone who registers. This year’s theme celebrates the heroic work of those who are working to make roads safer for everyone – from the emergency services, medical teams and support services that care for people after a crash, to designers and engineers who strive to create the safest vehicles and safe spaces for people to travel. The week-long campaign explains how we can all be heroes and play our part in making journeys safer for everyone. Schools and educators are invited to register at www.brake.org.uk/road-safety-week to receive the free action pack.

This December, why don’t you grab your antlers and support your local children’s hospice while having some Reindeer Fun? Whether you want to run, cycle, row, ramble or come up with your own fundraising challenge, Chestnut Tree House will provide everything you need for your Reindeer Fun event. There are free reindeer antlers and red noses for everyone taking part together with online materials, helpful hints and tips and sponsorship forms. Chestnut Tree House can also give an audience-appropriate assembly or talk about the hospice either in person, or via an online platform such as Zoom.

West Sussex former primary teacher, Alice Chambers, has written a beautiful and engaging story, Bob the Bear’s Adventures, the first in a proposed new Bob the Bear series. With photos bringing the story to life, children will enjoy being read this story by teachers, carers, parents and loved ones. Bob the Bear tries to hide in Alice’s garden but is always discovered and seems to love climbing more than hiding. Join Bob the Bear on his hiding expeditions and see if you can find him! He is sure to bring a smile and a giggle for both little ones and big ones when playing hide and seek. Bob the Bear’s Adventures was published by Ink! Publishing at the end of September.

By taking part in Reindeer Fun, you are helping care for around 300 local children who are not expected to live until adulthood. They’ll visit the House and create precious memories with their families. They’ll receive vital support from the Community Team in the comfort of their own homes. And, when the time comes, Chestnut Tree House will help families say goodbye, in whatever way feels right for them. Your generosity will make a real difference to local children and their families when they need it most.

Local News

Bob the Bear’s Adventures

Have Some Reindeer Fun this December!

"I wouldn't wish my anxiety on my worst enemy." Help test a course designed to prevent children developing anxiety. If you are a parent who experiences anxiety and has a child aged 2-11 find out how you can make a difference.

parentingwithanxiety.org.uk

Are you ready to spread some festive cheer? What Reindeer activity will you take on this year? To sign up, visit www.chestnut. org.uk/reindeer-fun and start having some Reindeer Fun.

Ch estn ut Tree Hou se R eindee r Fu n! Grab your antlers this December and hold your very own Reindeer Fun challenge for Chestnut Tree House! y

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For more information: 01903 871820 www.chestnut-tree-house.org.uk/reindeer-fun Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Sussex

Have some festive fun with your school, workplace or group!

FREE antlers and red noses!

Choose your own date in December c

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Registered charity number: 256789

11 Oct - 28 Nov ‘21

Family Theatre

27 Oct

13 Nov

Warning: This show contains Ninjas, not magic. Card Ninja is a show like nothing you’ve ever seen before! Expect riotous fun and a sweep of high- flying card tricks suitable for family audiences aged 6+.

Shlomo’s Beatbox Adventure for Kids

The best shows around... Capitol Horsham

Box Office: 01403 750 220 16 Oct

Showstopper! The Improvised Musical

daughters; all independent icons who really did change the world. Ages 6+.

Connaught Worthing Box Office: 01903 206 206

3 Dec A brand new musical comedy is created live in front of your very The Nutcracker eyes at each performance, as The original Christmas story is audience suggestions based on The Nutcracker are instantly Enjoy and the Mouse King transformed the show! written by ETA into hilarious Hoffmann. It tells And don’t all-singing, the story of Marie, forget to say all-dancing a sad little girl, you saw it in entertainment. whose godfather, Primary Drosselmeier, gives 31 Oct Times! her a Nutcracker doll as The Amazing a present on Christmas Eve. In her lively imagination it turns Bubble Man into a prince and the magic From square bubbles to rocket starts… bubbles, tornado bubbles to flying saucer bubbles, the 3 Dec Amazing Bubble Man conjures Swan Lake shrieks of laughter and gasps Swan Lake is full of mystery and of amazement from all ages. romance and has captured the imagination of generations over Chichester Festival the years. Enjoy a wonderful Box Office: 01243 781 312 evening out and make 18 Dec-1 Jan memories you’ll cherish long Pinocchio after the final curtain falls. It isn’t easy hiding the truth – especially when your nose Hawth Crawley gets longer with every lie you Box Office: 01293 553 636 tell…. as Pinocchio finds on his 27-30 Oct journeys. 23 Dec

Pinocchio: Relaxed Performance

This performance welcomes individuals, groups and families with children on the autism spectrum, with sensory and communication disorders, a learning disability or anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed theatre environment.

12-16 Jan

Fantastically Great Women who Changed the World

From explorers to artists, scientists to secret agents, hear the stories of some of history’s strongest mothers, sisters and 6

each other’s dreams come true? Featuring original music and a cast of colourful characters.

11 Oct - 28 Nov ‘21

Horrible Histories – Barmy Britain

We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead! Using actors and 3D special effects, this amazing show is guaranteed to thrill you and your children. Historical figures and events will come alive on stage and hover at your fingertips!

Komedia Brighton

Box Office: 08452 938 480 17 Oct

Stinky McFish and the World’s Worst Wish

Stinky The Crab longs to be human. Lucy would love her very own pet… Can they make

Shlomo, who makes mad music with his mouth, is setting out to create the next generation of superstar beatboxers. Anyone can be one of this sonic superhero’s sidekicks in a world of funny sounds, brilliant noises, and cool music, whether they’re aged 1 or 101!

18 – 30 Dec

The Hug

Set to Tom Gray’s beautiful and witty music, the audience are invited on a journey full of fun, laughter and love… and at the end, a very special hug from the puppets.

Minerva Chichester Box Office: 01243 781 312 10-24 December

Stick Man

Touching, funny and utterly original, this delightful adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Stick Man is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves.

Pavilion Worthing

Box Office: 01903 206 206 26 Nov – 2 Jan

Beauty and the Beast

With spell-binding scenery, glittering costumes and dazzling special effects combined with plenty of traditional pantomime audience participation and huge helpings of laughter, this is the family pantomime not to be missed!

Ropetackle Shoreham-by-Sea

Box Office: 01273 464 440 16 Oct

The Hug

Set to beautiful and witty music, embark on a journey full of fun, laughter, love and acceptance. This is a tale of hope, empathy and finding that right someone, by the Long Nose Puppets.

17 Oct

Edward the Travelling Bear

While Ed the Bear is a fictional character, his experiences in this story are real, the places he visits, the wildlife and people encountered on the way. It is a family friendly story about how we are all connected by the ocean.

Card Ninja with Javier Jarquin

28 Oct

The Amazing Bubble Man Louis Pearl explores the breath taking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation and enough spellbinding bubble tricks to keep everyone mesmerised.

31 Oct

The Princess and the Pea

Set in the Museum of Forgotten Things, three musical curators tell the amazing tale of the museums artefacts including the mystery of a little green pea and how it got there. Aimed at children aged 3+.

White Rock Hastings Box Office: 01424 462 288 30 Oct

Big Fish Little Fish Halloween Family Rave Dance together on a floor filled with foam, bubbles, balloons, glitter and topped by the parachute dance! Get creepy crafty on the Nifty Natty Craft tables and enjoy the Villa Pia baby chill out or play areas. Great for little ravers aged 0-8.

2-3 Nov

Dragons and Mythical Beasts

Calling all brave heroes! Enter into a magical world of myths and legends in this fantastical new show for all the family. From the creators of the West End smash hit Dinosaur World Live, who bring spectacular puppets to life.

23-24 Nov

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show

This critically acclaimed production features a menagerie of 75 lovable puppets, faithfully adapting Eric Carle’s stories with the star of the show, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, who celebrated its 50th birthday in 2019.

A feast of shows and music for all tastes and ages is heading to Chichester Festival Theatre for the Winter 2021/22 season. The entertainment for families and youngsters includes new pop musical Fantastically Great Women Who Changed the World, Michael Morpurgo’s Private Peaceful, Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler’s Stick Man, Chichester Festival Youth Theatre’s Pinocchio, Moscow City Ballet’s The Nutcracker, BBC Concert Orchestra’s Family Concert, Oi Frog & Friends and Long Nose Puppets’ The Hug. There’ll be free pop-up Play Cafés before selected Minerva Theatre family performances, providing free crafts, colouring in and a reading zone. There’ll also be half term fun from 25 to 29 October at the Festival Theatre and The Lodge, Graylingwell Park, Chichester. On Thursday mornings during term-time, take your preschoolers and catch up with some parent pals at CFT’s free Family Fun - pop-up family friendly spaces next to the welcoming Café on the Park. Children can discover toys, colouring-in and chalkboards, fancy dress and books. Grownups can indulge in barista coffees and delicious cakes while healthy snacks and drinks are available for children.

History is Truly Horrible at The Hawth Theatre

We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead! So it’s time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories live on stage with this special production of Barmy Britain at The Hawth, Wednesday 27 - Saturday 30 October. Using actors and 3D special effects, this amazing show is guaranteed to thrill you and your children. Historical figures and events will come alive on stage and hover at your fingertips!

Family Theatre

A Feast of Family Entertainment at Chichester Festival Theatre

Can you beat battling Boudicca? What if a Viking moved in next door? Would you lose your heart or head to horrible Henry VIII? Can evil Elizabeth entertain England? Will Parliament survive gunpowder Guy? Dare you stand and deliver to dastardly Dick Turpin? Escape the clutches of Burke and Hare and move to the groove with party Queen Victoria! It’s the horrible history of Britain with the nasty bits left in! Don’t miss it, book now at www.hawth.co.uk or by calling 01293 553 636.

See www.cft.org.uk/forfamilies for more details.

★★★★★

‘Wonderfully exuberant and imaginative!’

“BRILLIANTLY FUN!” DAILY TELEGRAPH

Time Out Critics’ Choice

BASED ON THE BOOK BY

CHRISTMAS AT CFT 10 – 24 November | Tickets £16 For all the family cft.org.uk 01243 781312 #StickMan *Half price for up to four Under 16s with every full paying adult. Top price only. Stick Man © 2008 Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Published by Alison Green Books, an imprint of Scholastic Children’s Books.

HALF TERM FAMILY FUN! Wed 27 - Sat 30 October

Box Office: 01293 553636

hawth.co.uk

11 Oct - 28 Nov ‘21

Fun Days Out with the Family Fireworks at Fontwell

Have you made plans for Hallowe’en or Guy Fawkes’ Night yet? Well, why not combine them and give your family a night out they will never forget? This year, it’s no tricks but all treats when the skies will be lit up at Fontwell Park Racecourse as they lay on their Hallowe’en themed Spooky Fireworks Spectacular on Friday 29 October. There will be so much to do at this spook-tacular family night out with a packed programme of entertainment for all ages throughout the evening to make your night really fizz and pop. Parents need not worry about entertaining their little ones as there will be that familiar favourite – free face painting! Next, head over to the fairground for some thrilling rides suitable for children and adults where you might find the dodgem cars, swirling tea cups or swing boats. There is nothing like a night time fun fair to add an element of excitement to the evening. And to keep you fed and toasty, there’s a great choice of spooky-themed bites, snacks and other bonfire night favourites available from the food outlets located on the site. However, if you’re looking for something extra special, you can book your own table in the restaurant or for groups, your own Hospitality Box. Then it’s time for the main attraction! At approximately 7.45pm the pyrotechnics team will light the touch paper and unleash the HUGE firework fiesta featuring a dazzling display of rockets, Catherine wheels, fountains and more. And don’t worry if the weather is wet as there’s even a covered viewing area so you’ll be kept dry and watch the spectacle in comfort. After the display, you can stay on and continue to enjoy the rides, great food and entertainment.

You can find Paradox Place in the heart of Brighton’s North Laine shopping area, just 300m from Brighton Station. For more information and to book tickets, visit www.paradoxplace.co.uk

Halloween Half Term at Hever Castle

Get into the Halloween spirit this October Half Term between 23 and 31 October with a family friendly, spooky, interactive trail at Hever Castle & Gardens. Young thrill seekers can learn how to become perfect little monsters as part of the Ghoul School audio trail (£1). They will encounter a spooky array of teachers who will impart their delights, frights and a few vampire bites. Sport your spookiest costume to really get the most out of the Ghoul School trail. Young visitors can also take part in a garlic bulb planting workshop to try and ward off vampires and spot ghostly decorations around the grounds. For older and braver visitors, Halloween Scream also takes place in half term week with a two-part interactive experience in both the Castle and the cellars underneath after dark. The Halloween Scream experience features live actors and special effects and is designed by AtmosFEAR! Scare Entertainment. It’s for those aged 14 years and over, costs £25 and must be prebooked at www.hevercastle.co.uk.

For more information and tickets, book online now at www. fontwellpark.co.uk.

See Yourself from a New Perspective!

Head on down to Paradox Place over half term for an hour the kids will absolutely love. Kids (and adults) love optical illusions because the idea of something not being what it seems is almost like a magic trick. Paradox Place, in the heart of Brighton’s North Laine, has created magical illusions and 3D artworks that are fun, Brighton-themed, colourful and quirky, and invite you to become a part of them. With four galleries of weird and wonderful photo opportunities, kids will have a ton of fun turning themselves small or big, or pretending to be skydiving or kitesurfing around Brighton in the wonderful optical illusions. The combination of a sense of magic with immersing yourself in unusual set pieces is brilliant for stimulating your imagination and lots of them are funny too, so everyone in the family will have a good giggle.Your ticket allows you access to four floors of bamboozling and amusing exhibits, which you can visit and enjoy at your own pace and in your group. Kids’ parties are also available there for just £15 per child including high quality pizzas from Fatto a Mano. 8

11 Oct - 28 Nov ‘21

Fun at Paradise Park

What Lurks Beneath Arundel Wetland Centre this October?

Enter the plant houses under a full-size replica of the Iguanodon fossil, discovered in the Sussex Weald in 1834. Then visit the beautiful collection of colourful koi carp in their Oriental Garden.

Are you brave enough to try a tricky trail to discover the creatures lurking at Arundel Wetland Centre this October? Pick up a trail map at the admission desk to find the feathered and furred and the slimy and scaly on the What Lurks Beneath Trail from 2-31 October. These wetland animals are amazing and you’re going to discover why you should love and protect them as much as the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust does! Also on this autumn at Arundel Wetland Centre, there are Family Pond dipping sessions on weekends and every day of October half term. Book at the admission desk for a session for up to six people on the day of your visit. A £3 donation per group is most welcome for the wetland charity. During West Sussex’s October half term (23-31 October) visitors can also scurry to the Outlook In building to weave some Creepy Crafts to spook up your home this Halloween.You’ll be batty about this free, drop-in craft activity running from 11am-1pm and 1.30-3.30 pm. Visit www.wwt.org.uk/arundel to plan your great day out!

Paradise Park provides the perfect day out for the whole family. The Planet Earth Museum is one of the finest exhibitions of its type in the country and traces the history of life from millions of years ago.

Experience the sights and sounds of prehistoric times on the Dinosaur Safari, try your luck at Crazy Golf and wander through the gardens with waterfalls, small lakes and fountains that make up some of the finest gardens in Sussex. Follow the Sussex History Trail – a collection of hand-crafted models of Sussex landmarks that will remind you of their exciting past. A miniature railway carries passengers around the gardens.

Fun Days Out with the Family

For more information about Ghoul School and Halloween Scream visit www.hevercastle.co.uk/whats-on. Please note numbers are limited to Ghoul School so entry does not guarantee inclusion in the trail. Photo credit: Hever Castle & Gardens

Climb Tyrannosaurus Towers and then experience Triassic Treetops Adventure Play. Climb the netted walkways through the trees and slide the spiral slide to discover the tunnels below. Enjoy the indoor play area, crammed with brightly coloured tubes, tunnels and slides. There are regular competitions and events in the school holidays to keep children entertained. For more information, visit www.paradisepark.co.uk.

This October discover…

at WWT Arundel

Plan your visit now Sat 2 – Sun 31 Oct #WWTWhatLurksBeneath | Search WWT Arundel Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT) registered charity in England & Wales, no. 1030884 and Scotland, no. SC039410

11 Oct - 28 Nov ‘21

Fun Days Out with the Family

On the Road to Brighton

The world’s longest running motoring event, London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, takes place on the first Sunday of November – this year Sunday 7 November – and commemorates the famous Emancipation Run of November 1896 which celebrated the passing into law of the Locomotive on the Highway Act. It was this landmark legislation that raised the speed limit for ‘light locomotives’ from 4mph to 14mph and came after the equally antiquated requirement for a man to walk in front of all moving vehicles waving a red flag had also been abolished. Now, 125 years after that very first Run, hundreds of extraordinary pre-1905 vehicles will once again honour the pioneering spirit and engineering dexterities of those intrepid early motorists on the historic 60-mile journey from Hyde Park in Central London with a halfway stop for refreshments and maintenance in Crawley before crossing through the South Downs to Madeira Drive on the Brighton seafront. More information on the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run can be found on the official website www.veterancarrun.com.

Weald and Downland Living Museum

This October Half Term (23 - 31 October) the museum will be creating a horribly-exciting experience for their visitors. Pumpkins won’t be the main focus. No, they are too nice and bright! Instead, learn about the not-so-nice-things that people (including children) had to eat, smell, experience or do as a job or household task in the past. You can also enjoy the great outdoors this autumn half term at the museum, with fun family activity packs and handson learning, where possible, and have a horribly good time. Being outdoors and keeping active is so important – and autumn is a magical time to step outside and explore the natural world around us – so why not put on your warm coats, woolly hats and walking/welly boots, enjoy the history of the South East and appreciate nature? Go along and enjoy this year’s horrible tasks of the past, whilst enjoying the sounds, sights and smells of the Weald & Downland Living Museum this October Half Term. Treat your senses this autumn and pre-book your tickets by visiting www.wealddown.co.uk.

arranged to make the most of every time of year, encouraging children to explore the natural world around them. Whether out and about or staying snug and warm inside, this collection of activities is perfect for having fun with friends and family. Published by Nosy Crow in hardback for £16.99 and packed with a nature activity for every weekend of the year, this book is a gift that the whole family will treasure for years to come.

Bluebell Railway

The Bluebell Railway is getting ready for the festive season. Returning by popular demand from November to January, why not experience the railway’s amazing Steamlights train? Sparkle, glow and shimmer on a magical steam train covered in thousands of colourful lights. Illuminate the dark landscape as you journey, and feast your eyes on an amazing light show along the way. With festive displays, music and narration, this is a steam train experience not to be missed. Grannies and Grandads will love this too. There is something special about having your own family compartment. Slide the door closed and imagine you are on your way to a famous wizarding school. Go along to the Bluebell Railway for a BrickWorks! adventure this October half term, 22 – 31 October. Take a trip through the history of space travel with amazing recreations of iconic moments from outer space.You won’t believe your eyes as you moonwalk around SteamWorks! in the locomotive shed at Sheffield Park Station and marvel at 15 amazing BRICKLIVE Outer Space models on display including life size models. Hundreds of thousands of bricks have been used to create unique models – all hand built. The show features a 310cm high Apollo 11 Saturn V rocket made with 68,583 bricks!

Autumn!

Experience the changing colours, crisp fresh air, crunching leaves, glowing flickers of the log fires and feel the history within each building.

Treat your senses. Book today!

wealddown.co.uk

Sunday Funday

Make Sunday the best day of your week all year round with Sunday Funday, a new book by Katherine Halligan illustrated by Jesus Verona. To be honest, there’s plenty in there to do on other days of the week too. Published in collaboration with the National Trust, this beautiful book is filled with 52 inspirational activities for every weekend of the year. Gardening, crafting, cooking and outdoor activities are seasonally 10

11 Oct - 28 Nov ‘21

The Gruffalo’s Child – Half Term Fun for Curious Explorers

Half-term fun for curious explorers

Children under 16 go FREE

16 – 31 October 2021

The Gruffalo’s Child

Pre-booking essential. kew.org/wakehurst

Join the Gruffalo’s Child between 16 and 31 October for an intrepid journey through Wakehurst’s wild botanic garden. The Gruffalo’s Child trail follows the journey of the Gruffalo’s Child through Wakehurst’s atmospheric woodland, discovering characters along the way, surprises around each corner and activities for all the family. The trail is Included in day entry. Children 16 and under go free. Learn crafting skills to make your very own stick buddy before embarking on the trail. Fancy a creative cookery camp? Venture on an immersive journey through Wakehurst’s deep dark wood before returning to base camp for some cave building, hands-on nature art and outdoor cooking over a campfire. Take advantage of Wakehurst and Kew member’s early opening. Get a head start on the Gruffalo’s Child half term fun with entry from 9am to 10am for Wakehurst and Kew members and a guest on selected dates. Book now at www.kew.org/wakehurst.

Fun Days Out with the Family

Outer Space provides facts around real life space travel and is a great learning experience. With workshops, make and takes and a brick graffiti wall, there are plenty of hands-on activities to get involved in. Pick up free trails and information about the models on the day of your visit. Have fun and get creative with the brick graffiti wall. What will you create? Make sure you take a picture and share before someone graffities over your masterpiece! For more information or to book, visit www.bluebell-railway.com

The BrickWorks! Adventure 22 - 31 October Interactive workshops, trade stands & building challenges Featuring 15 amazing BRICKLIVE Outer Space models, including a 310 cm high Apollo 11 Saturn V rocket made with 68,583 bricks! Free entry to BRICKLIVE with All Day Rover and Family tickets for the steam railway Book Now!

www.bluebell-railway.com

11 Oct - 28 Nov ‘21

Katie

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Halloween Howlers

Word Search H P R G O B L I N D

B N G E L T R L B P

V S H K X D C I E K T S D E I X B KWV O OWO O E TW RWK C C F Y T WD E T

C G O G G T L A O N

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Can you find all these words in the word search? Halloween, Witch, Black, Haunted, Brew, Ghost, Goblin, October Trick, Treat, Boo, Fangs, Bat, Magic

Where do baby ghosts go during the day? Day-scare

Spot the 5 Differences

What do ghosts wear when their eyesight gets blurred? Spooktacles!

What’s a zombie’s favourite cereal? Rice Creepies B

Where do ghosts go on holidays? The Boohamas.

What did the fisherman say on Halloween? Trick or trout.

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

Postcode: School:

Send your entry together with this completed form to:

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

competitions@primarytimes.biz Closing date 12 November 2021. Good Luck!

How to carve the perfect pumpkin…

1. Choose a large pumpkin and let a grownup use a sharp serrated knife to cut off the crown. 2. Using a large serving spoon, scoop out the seeds and ﬁbres and discard. Then remove some of the ﬂesh. 3. With a marker pen, draw a simple outline of a face on the pumpkin. Get a grown-up to use a small serrated knife to cut out the eyes, nose and mouth. Always cut away from you in case the knife slips. 4. Pop a tea light inside the pumpkin, light it and replace the crown.

A n s w e r s

Win Tickets to the Grand Premiere of the CBeebies Christmas Show

The annual CBeebies Christmas Show is back and this year it’s adaption have ??????? toan give away toof the classic poem, The Night Before Christmas. The show will be sprinkled with ders. For your chance to win, plenty of CBeebies magic, festive music, stunning dance ????????????. Send your answer to performances and a ng with your name, age, star cast of CBeebies hool and phone number to favourites. Follow the mpetition, Primary Times, adventures of Holly k Mews, London SE12 8LG and her brother Jack wer together with your details to on Christmas Eve, as ns@primarytimes.biz with they send their wishes the subject by Friday 28 February. to Father Christmas. But then they have to deal with the mischievous Wish Taker who steals those wishes. The CBeebies Christmas Show will be in local cinemas on the weekend of 4 and 5 December with a grand premiere in Leicester Square on Sunday 28 November. Primary Times have five family tickets to see the premiere in Leicester Square on 28 November. For your chance to win, tell us which poem this year’s show is based on. See below for details of how to enter.

Win an Addams Family 2 Goody Bag

Win Copies of Pirate Stew

Competitions

Competitions Meet Long John McRon, ship’s cook… and the most unusual babysitter you’ve ever seen. Long John has a whole crew of wild pirates in tow, and – for two intrepid children – he’s about to transform a perfectly ordinary evening into a riotous adventure beneath a pirate moon. It’s time to make some Pirate Stew. Marvellously silly and gloriously entertaining, this tale of pirates, flying ships, donut feasts and some rather magical stew is perfect for all pirates, both young and old. With deliciously rhyming text from master storyteller Neil Gaiman and spellbinding illustrations by the supremely talented Chris Riddell, this is a wonderful book. Pirate Stew is published by Bloomsbury Children’s books at a recommended price of £7.99 You can go and join Long John McRon on a new discovery trail around the Historic Dockyard, Chatham this October (9 - 31 October). See if you can find his missing pirate crew? More details at www.thedockyard.co.uk. For your chance to win one of five copies of Pirate Stew, tell us the name of the pirate cook. See below for details of how to enter.

Win anaAddams Familyto2 Hever GoodyCastle Bag Win Family Ticket

Hever’s annual outdoor celebration Autumn Colour heralds a Everyone’s favorite spooky family is of back in the animated stunning time inThe theAddams 150 acre grounds with fun for and all the family. comedy sequel, Family 2. Morticia The historic Castle is arguably its romantic in the up, autumn Gomez are distraught that theiratchildren arebest growing when the Boston ivy adorning the front of family the Castle turns a vivid skipping dinners, shade of red. Visitors will and totally consumed with be treated to glorious ‘scream time’. To reclaim displays of autumn colour. their bond they decide to Pack your walking boots cram Wednesday, Pugsley, or wellies and head to Uncle Fester and the crew Hever Castle to enjoy the crunch of leaves underfoot into their haunted camper and spectacular autumn and hit the road for one tints. last miserable family For younger visitors, the vacation. Always staying newly created obstacle true to themselves, the course and woodland area in Woodland offbring Lake Walk Addams Walk Family their provides a fantastic forest experience this autumn. Get into the iconic spookiness and kookiness wherever they go. Their Halloween spirit this October Half Term (23-31 October) with a adventure across America takes them out of their element family friendly spooky interactive trail, garlic bulb planting and andGhoul into School hilarious run-ins with their iconic cousin, IT, as well audio trail (£1). as many new strange characters. What could possibly go For your chance to win a family ticket and a Hever goody bag, wrong? Addams Family 2 isivy in cinemas now. See details tell usThe what colour the Boston turns in autumn. Phototo credit: Hever Castle & Gardens how to enter. Webelow have of five goody bags to give away lucky readers packed with prizes. For your chance to win one, tell us Pirate Stew COMP.indd 1 the name of the Addams family’s cousin. Send your answer us along your name, age,address address, school To enter any of the competitions send your answer alongtowith your with name, age, school, and phone number to The Addams Family and phone number to Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London, SE12 8LG. 2 Competition, Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London SE12 8LG Don’t forget to include the name of the competition. Alternatively emailtogether your answer anddetails detailstoto or email your answer with your competitions@primarytimes.biz with the competitioncompetitions@primarytimes.biz name as the subject by Friday 12 November with ‘The Addams 2021. Family 2’ as the subject by Friday 12 November. If you are entering more than one competition you can put all entries in the same envelope.

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Everyone’s favorite spooky family is back in the animated comedy sequel, The Addams Family 2. Morticia and Gomez are distraught that their children are growing up, skipping family dinners, and totally consumed with ‘scream time’. To reclaim their bond they decide to cram Wednesday, Pugsley, Uncle Fester and the crew into their haunted camper and hit the road for one last miserable family vacation. Always staying true to themselves, the Addams Family bring their iconic spookiness and kookiness wherever they go. Their adventure across America takes them out of their element and into hilarious run-ins with their iconic cousin, IT, as well as many new strange characters. What could possibly go wrong? The Addams Family 2 is in cinemas now. We have five goody bags to give away to lucky readers packed with prizes. For your chance to win one, tell us the name of the Addams family’s cousin. See below for details of how to enter.

11 Oct - 28 Nov ‘21

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What’s On

What’s On Your family diary for October and November

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

Ongoing Until 17 Oct

Tea with the Alpacas, Fisherwood Farm, Robertsbridge, TN32 5EN

Go along for a totally unique and exclusive afternoon tea experience where you can watch the alpacas and sheep happily grazing and once you have finished eating you can spend time feeding and petting the animals. For more details, visit www.fisherwoodfarm. co.uk.

Until 31 Oct

What Lurks Beneath Trail, Arundel Wetland Centre, BN18 9PB

Discover the amazing wetland creatures in this new ‘What Lurks Beneath’ interactive trail. There will also be pond dipping sessions at weekends and every day of half term, 23-31 October, along with the wetlands discovery boat safari. For more information, visit www.wwt.org.uk/arundel

Until 13 Nov

Mystery Warrior, The Novium Museum, Chichester, PO19 1QH

Explore the secrets of the most elaborately equipped Iron Age Warrior grave ever found in England. Admission free – donations welcome. For more information visit www. thenovium.org

From 27 Nov

Santa’s Workshop, Paradise Park, Newhaven, BN9 0DH

Go along to the Heritage Trail and Gardens, let the kids burn off energy in the soft play area and visit the Planet Earth Museum. Now also taking bookings for Santa’s workshop. For more details, go to www. paradisepark.co.uk.

October Fri 15 Oct

Just One Tree Day, Nationwide

Schools throughout the UK and around the globe have already committed to this international non-uniform day that encourages children to take in £1 to plant a tree and help reforest the planet. To sign up and for more information visit www. justonetree.life. Autumn Stars Moon and Planets, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8RP

7.30pm. Go to the Planetarium for a guided tour of some of the celestial wonders which are on view during the autumn months and find out how eruptions on the Sun cause displays of the Northern Lights. To book tickets visit www.southdowns.org.uk.

Until 14 Nov

Make a Wild Art Installation, Petworth House and Gardens, GU28 0AE

10am-4pm. Search out the seasonal colours and different leaf shapes at Petworth that are marked on the colour catcher chart. Collect what you find, then help create a deer shaped wild art installation. Normal admission applies. Visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/petworthhouse-and-park 14

11 Oct - 28 Nov ‘21

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 Sat 16 Oct

”

Children’s Detective Game, Shoreham Methodist Church Hall, BN43 5WB

10.30-11.30am. Join Gavin Milnthorpe in his search for clues and help him crack his case. Suitable for primary school children. All you need is a pad and a pen. To book tickets visit www. shorehamwordfest.com. Hailsham Bonfire Night, Hailsham Town Centre, BN27

7.30pm. This event has been scaled back to ensure it could go ahead this year, to this extent the firework element had to be sacrificed and reduced to a ‘firework finale’ at the end of the evening. For more information, visit www. hailshambonfire.org.uk.

Sat 16–Sun 17 Oct

Historic Life Weekends, Weald and Downland Living Museum, PO18 0EU

Wool was an essential material used for both clothing and other household items. This weekend will include demonstrations from spinning to natural dyeing, knitting to nalbinding and weaving. For more information, visit www. wealddown.co.uk. RBC Race for the Kids, Various locations

own race of 1km, 3km, 5km 10km or 15km, do it alone or with friends and family. Run, walk, wheel or scoot your own race. For more details visit www.rbcraceforthekids.com

Sat 16 – Sun 31 Oct

Whodunit Spooktacular Daily Story Trail, Borde Hill Garden, Haywards Heath, RH16 1XP

10am-5pm. Follow the story trail around the Garden helping Detective Snoop discover what happened to Sir Powers, meeting some of the shady characters who live at the Mansion – to find out whodunit! Ages 3-8 years. Charges apply. For more information, visit www. bordehill.co.uk. The Gruffalo’s Child at Wakehurst, RH17 6TN

Follow the journey of the Gruffalo’s Child through Wakehurst’s atmospheric woodland, discovering characters along the way, surprises around each corner and activities for all the family. Included in day entry, children 16 and under go FREE. For more information visit www. kew.org/wakehurst.

Sun 17 Oct

Seven Wonders of the Solar System, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8RP

3.30pm.Visit the Planetarium for a flight of fancy to explore our planetary neighbours. From the searing surface of our Sun, head past beautiful blue Earth to the grandest volcanoes and most spectacular canyons in the Solar System. To book tickets visit www.southdowns.org.uk.

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

- Diversity in Children’s Books The DESIblitz Literature Festival 2021 opened in September with leading British South Asian and South Asian literary names for a mix of in-person and digital events. The festival’s aim is to encourage young and aspiring British Asian writers with a programme of author events, workshops, performances and panel discussions, showcasing the work of British South Asian authors and poets, and international writers with South Asian heritage. Primary Times were lucky enough to go to the panel discussion on diversity in children’s books with authors Monika Singh Gangotra, Serena Patel, Sita Brahmachari, and Irfan Master with Tommy Sandhu hosting. Tommy: Why is it important that we see ourselves in stories if stories are escapism? Monika: I agree that books are a way to escape your world, but I also believe that you still want to be you when you’re escaping the world that you’re in. So when you’re escaping the world into characters you can’t relate to, it’s no more than living a normal life. When you’re reading a book and you ﬁnd characters that are aspirational because they look like you, you become a hero in your own life. That’s why books about empowerment and loving the skin you’re in need to be out there - so you feel seen. My colour wasn’t seen. As I’ve gotten older I want people to see my colour, I want them to see I’m brown and that I’m different, because that’s what makes me amazing and makes my kids amazing and our community amazing. I think building our lives in that way, in empathy through diverse characters in books is really important. Tommy: Would you agree with that, Serena? And what books influenced you growing up? Serena: Yeah, I think I never questioned the fact that there were no characters who looked like me who were the hero of the story, but I think it compounded

something in me, again growing up in a majority white community. It compounded feelings of being invisible, that your voice didn’t matter, that your story didn’t matter. Equally, I’ve had messages from readers who are not from a South Asian community, and they’ve never come across a brown person in their lives, but they’ve read Anisha (Serena’s latest book series) and they’ve learnt something new. It works on two levels, it’s a reﬂection but it’s also a window into someone else’s experience. Coming back to what Monika said, that creates empathy. If kids from other backgrounds can see a brown child as the hero of a story, that does something as well, and I think that can be really powerful. Tommy: What does the power of a good story do for children? Irfan: Why is it important for that 5/6 year old to see him/herself in a story? If they feel like superheroes, then they could possibly change the world. Tommy: And for yourself Sita? I want to know the power of a story and what it can do for the kids? Sita: For me, writing stories was initially to help myself, to piece myself together, but now it’s also an offering to children. And you see it, that sense of needing all the pieces of my history talked about, in stories. Belonging. I wrote a book called Corey’s Rock recently with an illustrator called Jane Ray, and when we were growing up we used to go to Orkney on holiday. I have a picture of me and my dad and he’s looking out to sea and he’s standing on a rock and I’m standing next to him. I remember the conversation. I

said, “Dad, what are you looking at? Are you looking for seals?” And he said, “No, I’m looking for home.” And little girl Sita saw the tears in his eyes and he said, “I will always be suspended between worlds.” Children see this stuff! When I was working in Notting Hill in the eighties, I was doing work with young people in communities where they were experiencing extreme racism, and lack of opportunity. I’m old enough now to know that there are repeats in history. There is always the voice of the author, there is always something you want to express and feel, and I’m really emotional when I’m writing, because you’ve got this chance to put something in this book. Then young people write to you about being inspired to write their own books and you think, “this is the best job in the world!” Tommy summed up the discussion with this: When I think back to my childhood, I loved stories. You lose yourself in other worlds, so on a final note I just want to say thank you for creating those worlds for children, it’s brilliant. The panel was full of challenging and inspiring messages, but what really stood out was that the inclusion of more diverse authors in children’s literature is a team effort for a shared gain - we all have a responsibility. The DESIblitz Literature Festival was organised by DESIblitz, the UK’s leading British Asian web magazine. For more information, please visit www.desiblitz.com.

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for October and November

October Sundae Club, Komedia Brighton, BN1 1UN

11am. Head along every month to the Sundae Club, over 3 hours of creative fun for children ages 3 to 8. Enjoy a theatre show, a craft workshop, dance along to music from a live band and enjoy the world’s smallest cinema in the One Bum Cinema Club. Book tickets at www.komedia.co.uk/ brighton/sundae-club

Fri 22 Oct

Amazing Moons of the Solar System, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8RP

7.30pm. Earth has just one Moon, but other planets have dozens of moons orbiting around them. Some ‘moons’ of other planets have active volcanoes, ice geysers and oceans of water beneath their surfaces. For more information and to book tickets visit www.southdowns. org.uk.

Fri 22 – Sun 31 Oct

The Brickworks! Adventure, Bluebell Railway, Sheffield Park Station, TN22 3QL

Go along to this STEM Family Fair, with interactive workshops, trade stands and building challenges. It will feature 15 amazing BRICKLIVE outer space models, including a 310cm high Apollo 11 Saturn V rocket made with 68,583 bricks! For more information, visit www.bluebell-railway.com.

Sat 23-Sun 31 Oct

Creepy Crafts, Arundel Wetland Centre, BN18 9PB

11am-1pm & 1.30-3.30pm. Scurry to the Outlook In building and weave some creepy crafts to spook up your home this Halloween. A free, drop-in craft session. For more information, visit www.wwt. org.uk/arundel

Spook-tacular Halloween, Blackberry Farm, Lewes, BN8 6JD

Go dressed in your best Halloween costume to enjoy various activities including a scarecrow trail tractor ride, mystery maze and spooky egg hunt. Then choose the perfect pumpkin and have it carved for an additional fee. For more information visit www. blackberry-farm.co.uk Afterlight, Beachy Head, Eastbourne, BN20 7YA

From story-telling, craft workshops and folklore to nature walks and astronomy, discover the many faces of the iconic landscape as the light changes throughout the day and evening into the night. Events take place at various times. For more information see www.visiteastbourne.com. Halloween Half Term, Hever Castle, nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

Go along dressed in your spookiest outfit, spot Halloween decorations around the grounds and learn how to become the perfect monster in the ghoul school audio trail. There is also Halloween Scream, a two part interactive experience after dark for older visitors.Visit www.hevercastle. co.uk. Halloween at Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens, RH13 6PP

9am-5pm. Go along for a spooktacular pumpkin trail during the October half term

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

”

and find all the fun activities along the way. Garden entry required for non-members. For more information, visit www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk. Escape! Mystery at the Manor, Preston Manor, Brighton, BN1 6SD

Join forces with your friends, family or colleagues and embark on an immersive journey of puzzle solving and storytelling, all set in this fascinating Edwardian Manor House! For more information and to book visit www. pierpressure.co.uk/escaperoom/escape-mystery-at-themanor. Horrible Tasks of the Past! Weald & Downland Living Museum, Chichester, PO18 0EU

10.30-4pm. Enjoy the great outdoors this autumn with fun family activity packs, and learn about the not-so-nicethings that people (including children) had to eat, smell, experience or do as a job or household task in the past! For more information, visit www. wealddown.co.uk. Spot the Pumpkin, Petworth House and Gardens, GU28 0AE

10am-4pm. Explore the Pleasure Garden in its autumn glory and keep an eye out for autumnal harvests during ‘spot the pumpkin’. These special pumpkins are grown at the nearby Woolbeding Gardens. For more details, visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/petworthhouse-and-park

Sat 23 Oct-Sun 28 Nov Bodiam Bats Trail, Nr Robertsbridge, TN32 5UA

(Selected dates) 10-4pm. Grab your wellies and head out as a family along the spooky,

sensory trail and find out what bats eat, how they live and spot their favourite places around Bodiam Castle. For more information, visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/bodiamcastle.

Sun 24 Oct

BIG DRAW: Make the Change, Ditchling Museum of Art+Craft, BN6 8SP

11-4pm. Join illustration students from the University of Brighton who will devise drawing activities around the environment and how we can all make a positive impact on helping to look after Mother Nature and our beautiful planet. For more information, visit www. ditchlingmuseumartcraft.org. uk. Jupiter & Saturn, The Mighty Giants, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8RP

3.30pm. Jupiter is the largest planet in the Solar System. It is a world of raging storms and multilevel clouds of various colours. It has a radius almost 11 times that of Earth and has about 80 moons. For more information and to book tickets visit www.southdowns. org.uk.

Mon 25 Oct

Autumn Stars & Galaxies, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8RP

1.30pm. As the nights grow longer, with the giant planet Jupiter now becoming visible to the east in the late evening sky, go to the Planetarium for a guided tour of some of the celestial wonders which are on view during the autumn months. To book tickets visit www.southdowns.org.uk. Time Travelling Detectives, The Lodge, Graylingwell Park, Chichester, PO19 6EA

10am-3pm. Are you ready to travel back in time and search for exciting stories from the past? Join experienced time traveller (and theatre

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

Due to Covid 19 restrictions please do check with the venue that the listing is up to date before planning your visit. 16

11 Oct - 28 Nov ‘21

Film & DVD Preview Guide Boss Baby 2: Family Business In this highly anticipated sequel,Tim and his Boss Baby little bro have become adults and drifted away from each other.Tim is now a married stay-at-home dad. Ted is a hedge fund CEO.Tim and his wife, Carol, the breadwinner of the family, live in the suburbs with their supersmart 7-year-old daughter,Tabitha, and adorable new infant,Tina. When baby Tina reveals that she’s a top secret agent for BabyCorp on a mission to uncover the dark secrets behind Tabitha’s school and its mysterious founder, Dr Erwin Armstrong, the Templeton brothers reunite in unexpected ways, leading them to re-evaluate the meaning of family and discover what truly matters. Boss Baby 2 will be released in cinemas on 22 October.

Watch Monster Family 2 at Home A year after the happy end of Monster Family, the Wishbone family are struggling with their various shortcomings. Max is the smallest and most bespectacled kid in eighth grade. Fay has the feeling that all her friends are talented at something but she’s not. Emma tries to help her children, but her advice is at best ignored.Then there’s Frank, whose happiness in his new job is ruined by seeing his family so unhappy. The wedding of the witch Baba Yaga and the hunchbacked butler Renﬁeld provides a much-needed distraction. But just seconds before they can exchange their vows, the two love birds are abducted! The Wishbones have no choice, if they want to save Baba Yaga and Renﬁeld they must transform into monsters again. Monster Family 2 will be available on Sky Cinema and Now TV from 22 October.

Ron’s Gone Wrong Arrives in Cinemas 20th Century Studios and Locksmith Animation’s Ron’s Gone Wrong is the story of Barney, a socially awkward middle-schooler and Ron, his new walking, talking, digitallyconnected device, which is supposed to be his ‘Best Friend out of the Box.’ Ron’s hilarious malfunctions set within the backdrop of the social media age launch them into an actionpacked journey in which boy and robot come to terms with the wonderful messiness of true friendship. Featuring the voices of Zach Galiﬁanakis, Jack Dylan Grazer and Olivia Coleman, the script was created by Arthur Christmas writer, Peter Baynham. Directed by Pixar veteran Jean-Philippe Vine, the ﬁlm promises to be fun for the whole family. Ron’s Gone Wrong opens in cinemas nationwide from 22 October.

The Addams Family 2 Everyone’s favorite spooky family is back in the animated comedy sequel,The Addams Family 2. Morticia and Gomez are distraught that their children are growing up, skipping family dinners, and totally consumed with ‘scream time’.To reclaim their bond they decide to cram Wednesday, Pugsley, Uncle Fester and the crew into their haunted camper and hit the road for one last miserable family vacation.Always staying true to themselves, the Addams Family bring their iconic spookiness and kookiness wherever they go.Their adventure across America takes them out of their element and into hilarious run-ins with their iconic cousin, IT, as well as many new strange characters.What could possibly go wrong? The Addams Family 2 is in cinemas now.

DVDs

Daisy Quokka

Feel Festive with Christmas at Cattle Hill

Get ready for Christmas with the fun animated Daisy Quokka is a cute and colourful family adventure from the team behind Peter Rabbit. family adventure Christmas at Cattle Hill. For Klara, Christmas is everything. However, when she When an unbearably adorable, eternally arrives at her father’s farm there’s no festive cheer optimistic Quokka named Daisy wants to in sight.With time ticking away it’s up to Klara, her achieve the impossible – to win the annual new friends and a very hungry gnome to get a ‘World’s Scariest Animal’ championship, she moo-ve on and bring Christmas to the farm. Can enlists the guidance of a washed-up, former they do it? Christmas at Cattle Hill is directed champion, a grouchy Saltwater Crocodile, to help her achieve her dreams and prove by Will Ashurst and written by Ole Christian that champions can come in all sizes. Daisy Quokka comes to Digital Platforms from Solbakken. It will be available on digital platforms from 18 October. Signature Entertainment on 25 October.

WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN To be in with a chance of winning one of ﬁve Addams Family 2 goody bags, send an email to competitions@primarytimes.biz with ‘Addams Family 2’ as the subject, telling us the name of the Addams family’s cousin, by Friday 12 November. Don’t forget to include your name, age, address, school and contact telephone number.

11 Oct - 28 Nov ‘21

What’s On 18

Pantosaurus and the Power of PANTS Margaret Gallagher, NSPCC Service Head of Local Campaigns, tells Primary Times readers about the NSPCC’s new book. “Since the NSPCC launched its Talk PANTS campaign in 2013, it has sparked over 1.5 million conversations between adults and their children to help keep them safe from abuse. “The campaign’s mascot is the bright yellow dinosaur called Pantosaurus. He already has his own animated music video and now he has his own book! The very first book we’ve ever published at the NSPCC. “Titled Pantosaurus and the Power of PANTS, the book was launched following a crowdfunding campaign that took place last year which saw NSPCC supporters raise £46,440 for the project. “The book, written by Rebecca Girlings and illustrated by Fhiona Galloway and Jamie Nash has been published in partnership with Ladybird. There’s even going to be an audio book, voiced by actor and NSPCC Ambassador for Childline, Natalie Dormer. “The book will help children learn about the PANTS rules which aim to help keep them safe from sexual abuse. From P through to S, each letter of PANTS provides a simple but valuable rule - that their private parts are private, their body belongs to them, and that they should tell an adult they trust if they’re worried or upset. “In the book, children will read about Pantosaurus getting a new pair of pants and Dinodad tells him that they will give him special powers. Pantosaurus then experiences a problem at school and just as Dinodad told him, his super pants give him the power to speak up. “You can get your copy from selected Matalan stores or at www.matalan.co.uk, selected Blakemore Retail SPAR stores or our NSPCC online shop and all profits from the sale of this book will support our vital work. “This bright and playful picture book is perfect for reading with younger children. Not only will they love Pantosaurus and his roarsome story, it’s also a fantastic tool for parents and carers to spark conversations with their little ones to help keep them safe. “Thanks to all the generous crowd funders who helped us create this essential book so we can empower families to talk to children about this difficult topic in an age appropriate way.” 11 Oct - 28 Nov ‘21

More What’s On Your family diary for October and November

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” October practitioner) Charlie Essex, to play drama games and stage stories from our history. To book visit www.cft.org.uk

Mon 25-Tue 26 Oct

Creation Station, Foyer Café, Chichester Festival Theatre, PO19 6AP

Go and try some woodlandthemed craft sessions where children will be able to make clay creations, mini bird houses or leafy luminaries. Charges apply. To book tickets visit www.thecreationstation.co.uk.

Mon 25-Wed 27 Oct

Fangtastic Laser Tag, Out of Bounds, Angmering, BN16 4NB

Go along this Halloween to this open laser session which includes a light kid’s meal. Recommended for ages 5-12 years. Halloween fancy dress welcome with prizes for top scorer and best costume. Charges apply. To book, visit www.out-of-bounds.co.uk.

Mon 25-Fri 29 Oct

Mon 25 Oct- Mon 1 Nov Halloween Afternoon Tea, Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens, RH13 6PP

1-4pm. Get together with friends and family and enjoy this spooktacular themed tea which includes seasonal treats, such as pumpkin tartlets, finger sand-‘witches’ and enchanted pastries. Charges apply. To book tickets visit www. leonardsleegardens.co.uk

Mon 25 Oct-Sun 14 Nov Museum of the Moon, Chichester Cathedral, PO19 1PX

The installation, which will be on display within the Cathedral’s Nave, is a fusion of lunar imagery, and surround sound composition created by BAFTA and Ivor Novello award-winning Bristol-based composer Dan Jones. For more information, go to www. chichestercathedral.org.uk.

Tue 26 Oct

Distant Worlds Alien Life, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8RP

3.30pm. Go to the Planetarium to find out about the discoveries and exciting possibilities for the existence of Earth-like worlds beyond our Solar System, and the alien life that may inhabit them. To book tickets visit www. southdowns.org.uk.

Foodie Fun, Festival Theatre Foyer, Chichester, PO19 6AP

10am-12noon. Caterers, Caper & Berry, will be offering some foodie fun in the newly revamped Café in the Park over half term. For just £3 children can decorate their ultimate cookie or brownie and enjoy a babychino. For more information visit www. cft.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

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Your family diary for October and November

October Pumpkin Patch Ball, The Lodge, Graylingwell Park, Chichester, PO19 6EA

10am-3pm. Create decorations and props with a creative practitioner, then learn a dance routine with an experienced choreographer so that you’re ready to attend the Pumpkin Patch Ball. Charges apply. To book, visit www.cft.org.uk. Paste Paper Book Making, Ditchling Museum of Art+Craft, BN6 8SP

11am-3pm. Emma Carlow will show you how to use your designs to make a simple concertina book. For ages 7-11, £25 including materials. For more information and to book visit www. ditchlingmuseumartcraft.org. uk. Heraldry Workshop, Arundel Museum, BN18 9PA

Create your own wooden heraldic shield this October half term. Suitable for ages 6-12 years. Charges apply. Visit www.arundelmuseum.org for more information and to register. Build a Bat Box, Petworth House and Gardens, GU28 0AE

11am-3pm. Get crafty during October half term and make a bat box. All materials provided, no booking required. £5 per box. Dates are to be confirmed, check back for details or visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/petworthhouse-and-park

Wed 27 Oct

Awesome Autumn Crafts, Worthing Museum and Gallery, BN11 1HP

10.30am. It’s amazing what you can create with different shaped autumn leaves, paints and wiggly eyes. How about making a colourful paper

lantern to hang in a window and then there are pine cones to decorate and stick art to discover. For more details, and to book visit www.wtam.uk.

Wed 27-Fri 29 Oct

Three Day Play, The Lodge, Graylingwell Park, Chichester, PO19 6EA

10am-3pm. Spend three days learning, devising and creating a brand new play together! Make a whole new world with the help of a professional theatre maker, share stories of new, imagined characters and perform to a small audience of family and friends at the end of the week. To book visit www. cft.org.uk

Thurs 28 Oct

Make a Monster, The Novium, Chichester, PO19 1QH

(Sessions 10.30am-12noon and 1.30-3pm) Brightonbased children’s writer and illustrator, Aaron Blecha, returns to the museum to lead this fun drawing workshop. Recommended for age 7-11years, charges apply, booking essential. Visit www.thenovium.org for more information. All Aboard – A Tour of the Planets, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8RP

(1.30 and 3.30pm) Visit the Planetarium for a flight of fancy to explore our planetary neighbours. From hot little

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

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”

Mercury, closest planet to the Sun, past cloud-covered Venus, beautiful blue Earth strong and red Mars, we head for the outer planets. To book tickets visit www.southdowns.org.uk. Create Your Own Pizza, Foyer Café, Chichester Festival Theatre, PO19 6AP

Available for one day only, create your own pizza in the Foyer Café before caterers, Caper & Berry, cook it to perfection in the Café on the Park. Select a size based on your appetite! Charges apply and booking is essential. For more details visit www.cft.org. uk.

Fri 29 Oct

Sleepanova at The Novium Museum and Chichester Cathedral, PO19 1QH

This unique overnight experience, that you will never forget, combines a space-themed sleepover at The Novium Museum with a visit to Chichester Cathedral to see the ‘Museum of the Moon’ by Luke Jerram. For more information visit www. thenovium.org. Wild Beach Scavenger Hunt, Rye Harbour Discovery Centre, TN31 7FW

10am-12 noon. Go along to see what you can find washed up on the beach. Who will score the most points to be top of the leader board? No booking required. For more information, visit www. sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk. The Northern Lights, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8RP

7.30pm. Discover how eruptions on the Sun cause displays of the Northern Lights, and how these are

Fireworks at Fontwell Park, BN18 0SX

What’s On

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visible from the ground as faint glows, coloured arcs or, at their most spectacular, coloured rays and bands of auroral light dancing across the night sky. To book tickets visit www.southdowns.org.uk.

5.30-9pm. Go along to this spook-tacular family night out with a packed programme of entertainment for all ages including face painting, fairground rides, great food and drinks and at approximately 8pm the huge firework fiesta! To book tickets go to www. fontwellpark.co.uk

Fri 29-Sun 31 Oct

Halloween Trail, Lewes (Various Locations)

Are you brave enough to follow the terrifically terrifying trail around Lewes? Download the map and find the deadly displays for some familyfriendly frights! Visit www. southmalling.e-sussex.sch.uk/ Lewes-Halloween-Trail

Sat 30 Oct

Day of the Dead Mini Halloween Procession, Littlehampton High Street, BN17

11am-1pm. Go along to this free event where LOCA & Friends will be celebrating all things Ghostly and Macabre. For more information see www.visitlittlehampton.co.uk Littlehampton Bonfire Celebrations, Various Locations

10am-10pm. Littlehampton Bonfire Society holds one of the best free bonfire celebrations in the area with activities in the town during the day and a massive bonfire on the seafront at night plus a funfair and fireworks display. www.littlehampton.info/ event/littlehampton-bonfirecelebrations.

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id 19 restrictions please do check with the venue that listing is up to date before planning your visit. Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Sussex

11 Oct - 28 Nov ‘21

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for October and November

October The Zoots Halloween Party, Grand Parade, Eastbourne, BN21 3AD

8pm. The Zoots Halloween themed show brings the hits of the last 50 years! The whole family can bop to the beats - with legendary numbers by Elvis, Queen, Michael Jackson, The Beatles, The Monkees, Bruno Mars, Mark Ronson and many more. For more information see www. visiteastbourne.com. BIG DRAW: Make the Change, Ditchling Museum of Art+Craft, BN6 8SP

11-4pm. Join illustration students from the University of Brighton who will devise drawing activities around the environment and how we can all make a positive impact on helping to look after Mother Nature and our beautiful planet. For more information, visit www. ditchlingmuseumartcraft.org. uk. Paint Your Own Pottery, Alcampo Lounge, Brighton, BN1 4JF

11am and 1.30pm. Go along in your Halloween costume and get into the spooky spirit at this event with a choice between a ceramic Pumpkin or ‘Day of the Dead’ skull to paint. To secure your place at this event send a message to brighton@popoloceramico. co.uk. Charges apply. Hocus Pocus (PG), Plumpton Racecourse, BN7 3AL

5-10.30pm. Wrap up warm and go along to this outdoor cinema experience under the stars. There are two screenings, an early one at 6pm and a late one at 9pm. Charges apply. To book tickets visit www.eventbrite.co.uk and search for Plumpton Racecourse.

Saltmarsh Saturday, Rye Harbour Discovery Centre, TN31 7TY

1.30-4.30pm. Discover what’s alive in the mudflats and saltmarsh then check them out under the microscope in the Discovery Centre. Suitable for children 5-11 years with an adult. Online booking essential and charges apply. Visit www. sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk.

Sat 30-Sun 31 Oct

Wyntercon, Devonshire Quarter, Eastbourne, BN21 4BP

A family-friendly celebration of all things fantasy, sci-fi and horror. Go and join the huge Cosplay competition or take part in the Lightsabre Academy experience! Wander the halls with Ghostbusters, Wookies, Stormtroopers, Witches and Wizards. For more information see www. visiteastbourne.com.

Sun 31 Oct

Story Time with John Vernon Lord, Ditchling Museum of Art+Craft, BN6 8SP

11am and 3pm. Go along to hear John talk you through some of the ideas behind his characters and read stories from some of his many children’s books. For more information go to www. ditchlingmuseumartcraft.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

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

”

The Northern Lights, South Downs Planetarium, Chichester, PO19 8RP

3.30pm. Discover how eruptions on the Sun cause displays of the Northern Lights, and how these are visible from the ground as faint glows, coloured arcs or, at their most spectacular, coloured rays and bands of auroral light dancing across the night sky. To book tickets visit www.southdowns.org.uk. Samhain: Halloween Celebration, Wilderness Wood, Hadlow Down, TN22 4HJ

12noon-5pm. Dress up in your spookiest gear and follow the shadowy trail through the woods, take part in activities suitable for all ages, and grab a pizza from the wood fired oven. For more information on time slots and tickets visit www.wildernesswood.org.

November Fri 5 Nov

Silent Firework Display, White Horse Hotel, Rottingdean, BN2 7HR

From 6pm. Go along to this family-friendly, silent firework display with live music, bar and BBQ. Wrap up warm and enjoy as the fireworks are projected onto the back of the building. All the fun and atmosphere without the bangs! See their Facebook page for more details.

Sat 6-Sun 7 Nov

Fire & Light Historic Life Weekends, Weald and Downland Living Museum, PO18 0EU

10.30am-4pm.The ability to light and heat our homes and quickly cook a hot meal is something we all take for granted. This weekend will

explore how homes were lit and heated in the past and what this meant for everyday rural life. For more information visit www.wealddown.co.uk

Sun 7 Nov

London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, Various Locations

Close to 300 pioneering veteran cars, dating back to the dawn of motoring, have already entered this year’s very special staging of the Royal Automobile Club’s magical RM Sotheby’s London to Brighton Veteran Car Run. For more information and to view the 2021 route visit www. veterancarrun.com

Sat 13 Nov

Shlomo’s Beatbox Adventure for Kids, Komedia Brighton, BN1 1UN

Sat 13 Nov-Sun 27 Feb Worthing Ice Rink, Steyne Gardens, BN11 3DT

All ages over four years are welcome to skate whatever your level of ability. The colony of penguins, led by Puddles, will be returning from the South Pole to assist younger skaters. For more information and to book a session visit www. worthingicerink.com.

Wed 17 Nov

Beach Clean, Rye Harbour Discovery Centre, TN31 7TY

10am-12 noon. Meet at the car park for this month’s litter pick, which happen on the third Wednesday of each month. Help to remove plastics and other litter from the marine environment, spot some wildlife and have a chat with other volunteer litter heroes! Visit www. sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk.

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

Due to Covid 19 restrictions please do check with the venue that the listing is up to date before planning your visit. 20

11 Oct - 28 Nov ‘21

Meet Emma Carroll

author of The Week at World’s End Primary Times were lucky enough to speak to Emma Carroll, once a secondary school teacher, now a multiple award-winning writer. Our interviewer, Rachel Benson, found her charismatic, energetic, and incredibly welcoming. Her latest release, The Week at World’s End, is based in 1962. Runaway, Anna, befriends Stevie and Ray as she hides from people who are trying to poison her. As tensions rise between America and Russia, and with the threat of war, Stevie wonders if Anna has been sent with a special message just for her. We were lucky enough to speak to Emma one Monday morning, typically, by Zoom. A little ice breaker - you used to pick avocados do you hate them or eat them by the dozen like us? I eat a lot of avocados, I love them! It was in Israel that I was picking them. Because it was quite hot we used to go picking them around dawn, and the chap who took us down there always carried a gun, because there were wolves, wild dogs and jackals that you could sometimes come across in the orchard. Luckily, we didn’t! What originally inspired you to become a writer? Well, I’ve always loved English. Even as a primary school student, English was always my favourite subject, it was the thing that made sense. Sort of in the opposite way to Maths really! But when I got to secondary school I had the most amazing English teacher, called Mrs Bailey, and she just got me. I loved her for that. She gave me that confidence. I’ve never forgotten that teacher who really made a difference to me. With lots of creative professionals there’s that one teacher who really inspires them, isn’t there? It’s that one person who sees in you the thing that you haven’t quite yet seen in yourself but you know it’s there somewhere. When someone else can see it too it justifies it to you. A lot of your books are based on historical events, with The Week at World’s End set around the Cuban Missile Crisis. Why have you chosen to do that? First of all because I really like reading books like that. The very first book I wrote, Frost Hollow Hall, isn’t based around a historical event, that’s just a Victorian ghost story. It was only when I got to write my second book, The Girl Who Walked On Air, Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Sussex

that I really began to think about historical events that might trigger the story. That’s actually quite a helpful way of writing historical fiction because you’ve got an event to hang your story on. The Week at World’s End was inspired by my parents. They were teenagers during the Cuban Missile Crisis. When I talked to my Mum and Dad about living through this week when the world was on the brink, it sounded absolutely terrifying. That would be a really interesting thing to write about. When you look at 1962, Kennedy was President of the US, Martin Luther King was giving a lot of speeches, the space race was going on and the Beatles had their first song out. So there were so many things happening, I thought ‘let’s do it!’ What’s your favourite thing about this book? I think the fact that they live in this little close and it really reminds me of my childhood. It’s a real book of the heart. On your website you talk about needing lots of cups of tea when writing (which we love!) What else do you need/do when writing? I really like this space (Emma gestures to the room she’s talking to me from). It’s only a tiny little room at the back of my house but it is my favourite place to write. It’s having the quiet space where I know that I am clicking into that creative mode. What else? I like to have a dog in here with me. I do like that. Emma turns her screen round to show me her view - the rolling Somerset hills out of the window and in front, a dog bed complete with resting dog. That’s Bert. It’s normally my other dog but he got here first today. Tea. I like nice notebooks. That’s sort of it really - tea, dogs, quiet space. Do you have any tips for any budding writers? The most important thing that any writer can tell you is to read. It’s where we get a lot of our ideas from.You also learn about your own tastes. It’s really important to choose a type of story to write that you yourself would want to read. Also, experiment. Don’t necessarily go down one route. Try writing poetry. I’ve heard of a lot of writers saying that a story they have written has started as a poem. Emma Carroll’s latest release promises to be an adventurous, nostalgic and historical treat for readers of all ages. The Week at World’s End, published by Faber, is released at the beginning of September and is available from all good book shops. 11 Oct - 28 Nov ‘21

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for October and November

November Fri 19 Nov

Christmas Lights Switch On, Littlehampton High Street, BN17

5-8pm. Littlehampton Town Council brings you the Christmas lights switch on and late night shopping. The evening will be full of Christmas themed activities and fun for everyone as well as a variety of performers and lots of delicious food! See www.visitlittlehampton.co.uk for more details.

Sat 20-Sun 21 Nov

Winter Fair, South of England Showground, Ardingly, RH17 6TL

Shop till you drop with an abundance of artisan produce and step inside the giant snow globe to capture the perfect Christmas-card-worthy picture. There’s also a street food area with live music, funfair, and of course, Santa’s grotto. Tickets are available from www.seas.org.uk.

Sun 21 Nov

Black History Family Day, Brighton Dome, BN1 1UE

10am-4pm. Go to this annual gathering celebrating the arts, culture and heritage of the African and AfricanCaribbean community. Get creative and join the fun with a range of activities & workshops including arts and crafts, music, and storytelling. For more details see www. brightondome.org.

Thurs 25 Nov–Wed 22 Dec Leonardslee Illuminated, Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens, RH13 6PP

4-9.30pm. Walk through the beautiful grounds of Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens as they come to life with spellbinding illuminations, large scale projections, music and

theatrical performances. For more information visit www. leonardsleegardens.co.uk.

Thurs 25 Nov-Sun 2 Jan

Glow Wild, Wakehurst, RH17 6TN

(Selected eves) As night falls over Wakehurst, an enchanting trail filled with hand-crafted lanterns, mesmerising installations, and captivating projections winds its way through the wild woodlands and gardens. Entry slots between 4.30-8.10pm. Tickets on sale now, book online at www.kew. org/glowwild.

Sat 27-Sun 28 Nov

Christmas Trees and Winter Fayre, Wilderness Wood, Hadlow Down, TN22 4HJ

(Also 4 and 5 Dec) 9am-5pm. Go and choose a cut-yourown-tree in the field or from hundreds of beautiful locally grown trees in the courtyard. Soak up the festive atmosphere with gifts and decorations from local artists. Booking is essential. Visit www.wildernesswood.org for more details.

Mon 29 Nov-Fri 3 Dec Christmas Trees and Winter Walks, Wilderness Wood, Hadlow Down, TN22 4HJ

9am-2.30pm. Go and choose a beautiful, locally grown Christmas Tree and go for a winter walk in the woods. The Hatch is open serving hot drinks and light refreshments and there will be some gifts and decorations available to buy.Visit www.wildernesswood.org for more details.

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” December Wed 1 Dec–Mon 3 Jan Father Christmas’s Sleigh, Bodiam Castle, Nr Robertsbridge, TN32 5UA

This December you’ll find Father Christmas’s sleigh within the walls of the castle. Go along and take a festive family photograph. For more details visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/bodiam-castle.

Wed 1-Sun 5 Dec

KiddiCity Big Launch Play Sessions, Langney Shopping Centre, BN23 7RT

During the launch week you’ll experience an even bigger and better role play area under one roof plus visitors can expect to see a month of Christmas play, arts and crafts, new classes and some very special Santa visits bookable in advance. To find out more go to www.kiddicity.co.uk

Fri 3 Dec

Christmas Trees and Pizza, Wilderness Wood, Hadlow Down, TN22 4HJ

3-7pm. Choose a beautiful tree from the festive courtyard and grab a wood fired pizza from Cashew Catering and chestnuts and mulled cider over the fire. There will be some decorations and gifts on sale from local artists. Booking essential. Visit www. wildernesswood.org for more details.

Sat 4 Dec

Festive Beach Clean, Rye Harbour Discovery Centre, TN31 7TY

10am-1pm. Meet at the car park before helping remove plastics and other litter from the marine environment, spot some wildlife and have a chat

with other volunteer litter heroes. Followed by tea and mince pies at the Discovery Centre. No booking required. For more information visit www.sussexwildlifetrust.org. uk

Sat 4 Dec-Mon 3 Jan Percy the Park Keeper’s Winter Wander Trail, Petworth House and Gardens, GU28 0AE

10am-3.30pm. Join in the fun with Percy and his animal friends and give nature a helping hand on this children’s trail. £2 per trail. Last purchase half an hour before closing. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ petworth-house-and-park. Percy the Park Keeper’s Winter Wander Trail, Nymans, Handcross, RH17 6EB

10am-4pm. This winter treat your little ones to a world of adventures at Nymans on the Percy the Park Keeper’s winter wander trail. Trail costs £2 plus normal admission. For more information, visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/nymans.

Sat 11 Dec

Festive Family Open Day, Brighton Dome, BN1 1UE

11am-4pm. There’ll be opportunities to make Christmas decorations and other festive fancies, whilst listening to carols and spending quality time with family and friends, away from the hubbub of the high street. Let the festivities commence. For more details visit www. brightondome.org.

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12 November 2021 If you have something you would like us to try and publicise (space permitting) please email it to

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11 Oct - 28 Nov ‘21

All your own work!

Aksayan Jeevaranjam aged 5

Daniel Cendrzak aged 10

Imaani Muhaimin aged 9

. Rose Tingley competitions in our September Back to School issue Congratulations to the following people who won a prize with gorill ing amaz the won ry School. Noah Day won a box of books for her school, Miers Court Prima ombe and Dunc Bella kov, Kuten Philip , Nikola Jovanovski Cindergorilla. Our Epping Ongar Railway winners were mies Mum of copy a won s Roger Elsa Juliette Steyn and Lyla Foster. Daniel Baker, Teddy Flude, Nike Ezeasor, son Harri as, Thom ry Zacha s, Vagg ie Welman, Willow-Dix Unwrapped. Paws in the Park winners were Jackie and we the Annie's drawing competition for the under 8's won m ranja Jeeva an Halliday and Emma Wiffin. Aksay etition comp our all to done Well imin. rzak and Imaani Muha had two winners in the older catergory, Daniel Cend If you would like to see winners on this page and enjoy all the artwork! your work displayed here then just send us a drawing, poem, riddles, jokes or short story and we'll do our very best to include it. Send it to: Good Work Page Primary Times 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG

Thank you to Katharina Hopkins, Juveria, Mollie Rose Irwin and Freddie Cheshire for all their really lovely, fun artwork. We love seeing your work so do please keep sending it to us. We're happy to receive artwork from the whole class so do feel free to send us class entries.

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