Primary Times Avon Whitsun 2013

Theatre • Arty Barty • Roundabout • Save money!

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As Bristol’s Biggest Bike Ride reaches 20 this year, families take to cycling in their droves. Page 4

Issue 176 24 May-24 Jul 2013

Bike to the future

AlsoFather’s Day Family festivalsYet more cycling!

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With the late onset of spring, many families have been chomping at the bit to get on their bikes and enjoy the region’s cycle paths. Happily, there has never been a better time, as organisations such as Sustrans, plus local councils, work to improve the cyclists’ lot with new facilities and events, such as Big Green Week and Bristol’s Biggest Bike Ride. (See Pages 4 and 6) .

As a dad myself, I had no objection when the PT team suggested a Father’s Day feature (P.30). There may be some unsubtle reading hints at home soon. And look out for our essential guide to local festivals (P.33). Have a great half term!

Primary Times in AvonVenue Publishing at Bristol News and Media, Temple Way, Bristol BS99 7HD. More information at www.primarytimes.net and more places to visit at wwww.venue.co.uk

Editor Mike Gartside [email protected] director Becky Davis [email protected] 0117 934 3780Advertising Caroline Stretton [email protected] 0117 934 3737 Ruth Morris [email protected] Simon Butler 0117 934 3741 [email protected] Design Cath Evans, Dan Srokosz, Mike GartsideProof reading Alex SaundersProduction Emma Gorton, Ruth WoodMain office 0117 942 8491

PRIMARY TIMES MAY HALF TERM 2013 3

VIEW THE MAGAZINE ONLINE AT www.venue.co.uk/early-times-primary-times www.primarytimes.net • www.facebook.com - Arty Barty

Theatre • Arty Barty • Roundabout • Save money!

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As Bristol’s Biggest Bike Ride reaches 20 this year,

families take to cycling in their droves. Page 4

Issue 176 24 May-24 Jul 2013

Bike to the future

AlsoFather’s Day

Family festivals

Yet more cycling!

THEATRE P8ROUNDABOUT P13PINBOARD P23ADVERTISING FEATURES P26PUPILS’ PAGE P34CLASSIFIEDS P36 WHEEL PASSION P6Alex Saunders explores Avon’s cycleways and bike events.DADDY COOL P30Make Dad feel special this Father’s DaySOUNDS OF THE SUMMER P33You don’t have to travel far to enjoy family festival thrills with this guide to local events.

the editor

Find these amazing offers this issue!

Bristol Aquarium – kids go free or save £10 with voucher Clearwell Caves – one child free with full paying adult Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm – £2 off admission Westonbirt Treefest – kids go free Flingers Party Shop – 15% off purchases for PT readers (see Pinboard)Barbury International Eventing – two adult tickets for one with code (see Roundabout)Foodies Festival – two tickets for one with discount code (see Roundabout)

Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in Primary, Junior, Infant and Middle Schools throughout the former Avon area, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire. It is also available by subscription at £10 per year.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 biased 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.While we make every effort to ensure information published is accurate, readers are encouraged to check details of all events in advance and neither Venue Publishing nor its contributors are liable for the consequences of any errors. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in the county for their assistance in distributing the magazine and 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. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Primary Times or the relevant contributor. Primary Times currently publishes more than two million copies per issue under franchise.

13 Avon contents May 2013.indd 3 5/8/2013 10:27:00 AM

This is a very special year for Bristol’s Biggest Bike Ride as the event celebrates its 20th

anniversary on Sunday 16 June. The Bike Ride has grown into one of the largest and most well-loved events in the region’s cycling calendar, attracting families from across the city and beyond. It’s completely free to enter and offers something for all ages, with five different routes to choose from to suit individual levels of cycling ability and experience.

The Biggest Bike Ride routes all start and finish at Millennium Square in Bristol and this year’s event will see a special send off with a carnival atmosphere and some entrants celebrating 20 years of taking part! This is an ideal opportunity to experi-ence what it’s like to cycle en mass along traffic-free streets in Hotwells and along the Portway, as well as taking dedicated cycle routes out to the surrounding countryside. Families with young children can opt for the easy-pedal Family Fiesta route (9 miles) that runs alongside the Avon Gorge and beneath the iconic Bristol Suspension Bridge. There’s free-dom to roam with plenty of space for cycling in groups and places to stop off, should you need a breather.

For the more confident and experienced cyclists there are several longer routes; the 14 mile Avon Gorge Loop through Shirehampton; the Sustrans Portishead ride at 24 miles and a test for real cycling enthusiasts known as the Clevedon Challenge - a demanding 38 mile trip. New this year is a special anniversary ride, The Tyntesfield 20: a 20 mile cycle through stunning country-side that includes a section at the beautiful National Trust property, Tyntesfield House. Cyclists arriv-ing at Tyntesfield are entitled to a 20% reduction on admission to the house and in the café and shop. It’s a perfect location to picnic and enjoy the historic sur-roundings.

Bristol’s Biggest Bike Ride is part of Bristol City Council’s programme to encourage people

to enjoy cycling, more safely and more often, whether it’s cycling to school, work or family leisure rides at the weekend. Teams of young cyclists from local schools are gearing up to take part and with cycling increasing in popularity in the city, this could well be a record-breaking year for participants. In the past, the event has attracted 6,000 riders and the organisers have seen a steady rise year on year.

To register your family or school for the ride, visit the Better by Bike website. You will find everything you need to know about this year’s event, including maps of the routes, start times and general information. Safety is a watchword for Bristol’s Biggest Bike Ride and the event is well marshalled throughout the day. All types of pedal bikes can be ridden at the Biggest Bike Ride and you will see a whole host of colourful and ingenious machines, flags and brightly decorated trailers. There are bike mechanics on hand at the start to give your bike a last minute check and to assist further along the route.

As well as the Biggest Bike Ride, the Festival of Nature also takes place over the same weekend at Harbourside and Millennium Square. Fittingly it, too, will be cel-ebrating its 10th birthday. Cyclists returning at the end of their ride will have the opportunity to visit the festival, the UK’s largest free natural history event, offering wildlife enthusiasts of all ages the opportunity to explore and enjoy the natural world in the heart of the city. The vibrant programme features interactive, hands-on

activities including appearances by the BBC Natural History Unit and Bristol Zoo, plus a market-place packed with local produce and much more.

Visit the Cycling Hub at the Festival to find out more about cycle routes in your area and for advice including how to get back in the saddle, information on types of bike and where to find local bike shops and cycle training courses.

It’s a delightful, fun-packed Sunday, which will keep children entertained throughout and mark the start to a great summer of cycling in the city. It has always gone ahead whatever the weather, so don’t forget to dig out your sun-screen, just in case.

Bristol’s Biggest Bike Ride Sun 16 Jun. W: www.betterbybike.info/bikeride

4 MAY HALF TERM 2013

As Bristol’s Biggest Bike Ride turns 20 years old this year, the region’s families take to cycling in their droves.

BRISTOL’S BIGGEST BIKE RIDE

From Millennium Square, Bristol

SUNDAY 16 JUNEbetterbybike.info/bikeride

PRIMARY TIMES

Bike to the future

13 Avon Features May 2013.indd 2 5/8/2013 10:30:12 AM


The whole park

is now open!

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Pushing off on two wheels can be a daunting pros-pect for any child facing a bicycle for the first time.

Minor tumbles and wrong-turns await those that hop on but, once balance and control are acquired, cycling becomes a fun and flexible way of getting from A to B. For par-ents, a child’s discovery of cycling unlocks a range of recreational activities that can really bring the family together. This summer, the Avon region will be humming with the whirl of wheels as local people explore the region’s cycle paths.

Launching a child’s cycling career early on helps them achieve a number of goals, not least the recommended 60 min-utes of physical activity per day for a child. It also livens up jour-neys around town or into school: children get to know their local area more intimately.

The benefits don’t stop there: teachers often comment that children who cycle to school are more attentive in lessons. “The average primary school journey is just 1.5 miles – the perfect distance to walk or cycle,” says Malcolm Shepherd, chief execu-tive of Sustrans, a UK charity that promotes sustainable transport. “Evidence shows how children who cycle to school regularly are more active and better learners - it’s time for us all to get on our bikes!”

One of Sustrans’ biggest suc-cesses is the development of the

National Cycle Network, which now consists of over 14,000 miles of walking and cycling routes throughout the UK, used by thou-sands of cyclists every day. “The network demonstrates that big increases in walking and cycling are possible and that people will choose to get about by bike if it’s safe and pleasant enough,” says Martyn Brunt, NCN development manager at Sustrans.

Safety is a key concern for parents reluctant to allow their

children on the roads, an issue addressed by Bristol Council’s ‘Bikeability’ programme. This 21st century cycling proficiency test aims to teach young cyclists how to travel safely on two wheels. A three-step programme offers increasingly advanced training scenarios, and the scheme is avail-able in the majority of the region’s schools. “Bikeability gives children the skills and confidence they need to cycle safely,” says Emma Downey, manager of the area’s Bikeability scheme. “They can be independent while having lots of fun.”

Once your little one has learnt the skills necessary to head out onto the roads, what facilities and events are on offer? Perhaps most spectacular is Bristol’s Biggest Bike Ride on Sun 16 Jun, part of Bristol’s Big Green Week: see our full page feature on Page 4. From 10-14 June, Bristol takes part in the Sustrans-led ‘Bike to School’ week, while the city runs a paral-lel programme, ‘Active Travel to School Week’.

“We’ll be encouraging chil-dren to travel sustainably,” says Downey. “They’ll have diaries and stickers to record how they’ve come to school.”

A new facility for cyclists, the renovated Combe Down railway tunnel near Bath opened this April as part of the Sustrans Two Tunnels Greenway project. This purpose-built cycling tunnel is the longest in the UK. “The Two Tunnels Greenway is a great example of how disused railway lines can be revived as vital trans-port links,” Shepherd explains “It will connect local communities and help people be more active as they get around.” With 1,600 people cycling through the tun-nel in its first hour, the new route has proved immensely popular and is expected to attract hundreds of thousands of cyclists and walkers in its first year.

Plenty of other cycling events take place across Avon this sum-mer (see Roundabout section), so pump up the tyres, ring the bell and set off down the road to healthy living.

Better by Bike W: www.betterby-bike.info Sustrans W: www.sustrans.org.ukBikeability W: www.dft.gov.uk/bikeabilityLife Cycle UK T: 0117 353 4580 W: www.lifecycleuk.org.uk

Cycling has never been more popular with the opening of exciting new facilities and summer events aplenty. Alex Saunders gears up for a pedal-powered season.

PRIMARY TIMES6 MAY HALF TERM 2013

WHEEL PASSION

TOP TIPS

1Balance bikes and training wheels are a great way to

start your child on two wheels.

2 Ensure the bike is road-worthy, that they wear

high-visibility clothing and a well-fitting helmet.

3 Sit down with the kids and mark out a safe route from

home to school for morning runs.

4Make cycling a family activ-ity, for example, by combin-

ing it with a countryside picnic.

EVENTS2 Jun Castle Combe Cycling Festival 10-14 Jun Bike To School Week22-23 Jun Bike Bath13-21 Jul Bristol Cycle Festival(See Roundabout for full details)

The Combe Down Cycle Tunnel



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BATHBATH CITY FARM Kelston View, BA2 1NW. Monkey and Crocodile Sat 20- Sun 21 Jul. 11am and 3pm. £5 or £16 (family) • In conjunction with the egg theatre, Metta Theatre brings an old Indian fable of friendship and betrayal magically to life. Tickets and further info from the egg (see below).

THE EGGTheatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath BA1 1ET. 01225 448844, www.theatre-royal.org.ukSwallows & Amazons Thu 23-Sat 25 May. 7pm (& 2pm Sat). £7.50/£6.50 • Graduates from Bath Spa University of Performing Arts present this classic tale of camping, sailing and crafty piracy. Ages 5+Each Peach Pear Plum Tue 28-Wed 29 May. 11.30am and 3pm. £7.50/£6.50 • Adapted from the book by Janet and Allan Ahlberg, this playful show is a game of ‘I Spy’ for the whole family set in a lovely green meadow. Ages 3+Graffiti Classics Sat 1 Jun. 11.30am and 3pm. £7.50/£6.50 • This contemporary classical concert incorporates a gypsy-folk romp, opera, stand-up comedy and elaborate dance show in a cauldron of creativity that will entertain the whole family. Ages 2+Aston’s Stones Thu 6–Sat 8 Jun. 10.30am & 1pm (Thu and Fri). 11.30am & 3pm (Sat). £7.50/£6.50

• This funky story is told using live music to narrate the charming tale of Aston, the little dog who loves collecting stones. Ages 3+Spot Fri 14-Sat 15 Jun. 10.30am & 1pm (Fri), 11.30am & 3pm (Sat). £7.50/£6.50 • Spot is a special stage light which shines shapes and colours on the floor.Freddy Dare & The Ginger Robber Fri 21-Sat 22 Jun. 10.30am & 1pm (Fri), 11.30am & 3pm (Sat). £7.50/£6.50 • Cube theatre pro-vides an epic adventure through striking visual effects, soaring music, curious props and an emo-tionally charged script. After Fred loses his dad, he joins with a fellow superhero and descends into a world of imagination.Portofino Ballad Fri 12-Sat 13 Jul. 10.30am & 1pm (Fri), 11.30am & 3pm (Sat). £7.50/£6.50 • A thought-provoking story of family and freedom.Fireside Tales with Granddad Sat 20 Jul. 11.30am & 3pm. £7.50/£6.50 • Visually stunning puppets and lucid soundscapes are combined with impressive puppetry to create the magic of a fireside setting for everyone’s favourite Granddad.

BRISTOLTHE BLAKEHAY THEATREWadham Street, Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset BS23 1JZ. 01934 645493, www.weston-super-maretowncouncil.gov.ukLittle Red Riding Hood Sat 18 May. 11am and 1.30pm. £7 • Soap Soup Theatre introduce Ethan and Sam as they get ready for bed, with a not so sweet bedtime story of a girl with an attitude, a wolf with appetite and a larger than life woodcutter with an axe and a very real fear of wolves.Jack at the Beanstalk Café Sat 25 May. 11am-1.30pm. £7 • Blending shadows, puppets and live music, the innovative Hand to

Mouth theatre present two tales with a coffee bean aroma that will suit children aged 4-8.

THE BREWERY THEATRE291 North Street, Southville, Bristol, BS3 1JP. 0117 902 0344, www.tobaccofactorytheatre.comNapoleon: A Defence Tue 28 May–Sat 1 Jun. 7.15pm. Sat 2.15pm. £11 • This comedy fea-tures live music, physical theatre, clowning around, ships and can-non balls that will blast you into an imaginative history. Suitable for children.

THE BRISTOL HIPPODROME Saint Augustine’s Parade, Bristol BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012, www.bristolhippodrome.org.ukBen and Holly’s little kingdom Wed 15-Thu 16 May. 1pm & 4pm (Wed), 1pm & 4.30pm (Thu), £12.50, £14.50, £16.50 • The mak-ers of Peppa Pig bring this televi-sion animation to the stage for the first time. Holly is a fairy prin-cess, still learning how to fly and her magic doesn’t always go to plan whereas Ben the Elf can only fly on Gaston the Beetle. Have fun as they explore The Big World in this enchanting tale of jelly floods and adventure.Three Phantoms Tue 4-Wed 5 Jun. 7.30pm, £22-£33 • Musical theatre lovers (especially Phantom of the Opera ‘Phans’) are in for a treat with these back-stage insights and anecdotes from three of the West End’s best-known phantoms, Earl Carpenter, Matthew Cammelle and Stephen John Davis. The trio also sing pieces from other adaptations of the story that inspired Andrew Lloyd Webber to write his famous score.The Pirates of Penzance Tue 18-Sat 22 Jun. 7.30 pm (& 2.30pm Wed & Sat). £15-£47.50 • Classic Gilbert and Sullivan welcomes the D’Oyly Carte Opera Company back to the stage after 10 years for this swashbuckling show.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Tue 25–Sat 29 Jun. Various times and matinee performances, £10-£29.50 • Ian ‘H’ Watkins of former teen band Steps stars in this retelling of the biblical story of Joseph, his 11 brothers and the coat of many colours. Dora the Explorer Fri 26 Jul-Sun 28 Jul. 4pm (Fri). 10am, 1pm, 4pm (Sat), 10am & 1pm (Sun). £19/£17 • Nickelodeon’s young explorer is brought to the stage and the audience are invited to search for the City of Lost Toys.

THE BRISTOL OLD VICKing Street, BS1 4ED. 0117 987 7877, www.bristololdvic.org.ukThe Curious Scrapbook of Josephine Bean Tue 28 May-Sat 1 Jun. 11am & 2.30pm. £8 • Delve into the pages of Josephine Bean’s scrapbook and discover the secrets within. Recommended for ages 7+Lionboy Wed 29 May-Sat 1 Jun. 7pm (& 2pm Sat). £8-£28 (all tickets £10 on Wed 29 May) • The award-winning Complicité Theatre Company brings its first show for families and young people to Bristol. Charlie Ashanti can speak to cats and when his parents are kidnapped, he sets off on a rescue mission helped by a pride of performing lions.The Watery Journey of Nereus Pike Tue 28 May–Sat 1 Jun. 8pm. £12/£8. • Nereus Pike is float-ing down from the sunshine to the bottom of the sea. He’s not unhappy about this, in fact, he’s smiling. This is a new show by Fringe First Award-winning comedian and theatre-maker Laura Mugridge, in collabora-tion with Katy Schutte and Tom Adams.The Boy Who Cried Wolf! Sat 13 Jul-Sun 1 Sep. 2pm & 7pm. £22/£20/£10 (first 50 tickets) • Returning to the open air outside the famous theatre, the creative team behind ‘Treasure Island’ and ‘Peter Pan’ unfold a spar-kling version of the famous sto-rytelling slave’s parable, adapted by Michael Morpurgo.

THE COLSTON HALLColston Hall, Colston Street, Bristol BS1 5AR. 0117 922 3686, www.colstonhall.orgNigel Kennedy presents Bach plus Fats Waller Fri 3 May. 7.30pm, £39.50 (Balcony), £34.50 (Stalls) • World-famous violinist, Nigel Kennedy, presents a typically maverick programme celebrating the music of Bach and Fats Waller. He is joined on stage by an acoustic guitarist, a drum-mer and a double bass player.


FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SHOWS ★ BRISTOL, BATH, SOMERSET & SOUTH GLOS

»The Pirates of Penzance, Bristol Hippodrome, 18-22 Jun.

At the egg, Bath, 1-2 FebThe eyes have it: Lionboy at Bristol Old Vic, 29 May-1 Jun

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Chilled Out Classics Fri 10 May. 7.30pm, £14-£25 (under 26s £8 & under 18s £1) • Described as a musical spa treatment for the soul, this selection of relaxed classics will calm even the most stressed audience.Room on the Broom Fri 20-Sun 22 Sep. See website for times, £11.50 • This enchanting tale of a witch, her cat and an overly-popu-lated broom is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

OLYMPUS THEATREFilton College Wise Campus, New Road, Bristol, BS34 8LP. 0117 956 7463, Annie Wed 26-Sat 29 Jun. 7.30pm (matinee 2.30pm Sat). £10/£8.00 • A fantastic production from Minis Theatre Club, children from 9 to 14 years old. Enjoy the famous ‘Tomorrow’, ‘Hard-Knock Life’ and many more. It’s a feel good show!

THE REDGRAVE THEATREPercival Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3LE. 0117 315 7000. The Redgrave has no permanent box office so please book directly with the visit-ing companies listed below.Romeo and Juliet Sat 2 & Sat 9 Feb. 10.30am. £7 • Bristol Old Vic Theatre School has specially adapted this production for younger audiences: a perfect introduction to the fateful tale of Romeo and Juliet. Suitable for Key Stage 2, suggested ages 7-13 years. 0117 973 3955.

ST GEORGE’S BRISTOLGreat George Street, Bristol BS1 5RR. 0845 402 4001, www.stgeorgesbristol.co.ukWild Words: Traditional Tales with a TWIST! Tue 4 Jun. 7pm. £8 (adult)/£6 (under 18s) • Two storytellers and two musicians serve up a three-course meal of words, sounds, movements, grooves and plenty of rhythm and rhyme. Breathing new life into ancient tales, the interactive show encourages playful imagination. For ages 10+.Stringfever for Juniors Sun 9 Jun. 1.30pm. £8 (adult)/£6 (under 18s) • A family quartet of brothers and cousins give popular classics the Stringfever treatment accom-panied by plenty of humour and impressive musicianship. Ages 6+Benjamin Britten’s Little Sweep Mon 17 Jun. 6.30pm. £9 (adult)/£5

(under 18s) • This opera for chil-dren follows the story of Sam the sweep who is rescued by the children of the manor in which he works.

TOBACCO FACTORY THEATRERaleigh Road, Southville, Bristol BS3 1TF. 0117 902 0344, www.tobaccofactorytheatre.comBrouhaha: Comedy Club 4 Kids Sat 20 Jul. 4pm. £7.50 • Featuring George Egg, John Robins and Fin Taylor this stand-up show aimed specifically at children aged 6-11 will give youngsters the taste of a grown-up comedy club without any of the rude words.The Magical Playroom with CBeebies’ Cerrie Burnell Sat 20 Jul. 11am. £9 • Inspired by her own childhood, Burnell’s magical shows reveal her youthful dreams of becoming a ballerina and how a powerful imagination can make such dreams come true.

FURTHER AFIELD

THE BACON THEATREDean Close School, Shelbourne Road, Cheltenham GL51 6HE. 01242 258002, www.bacontheatre.co.ukRomeo & Juliet Wed 17 Jul. 7.30pm. £13 • Shakespeare’s timeless classic is given a rework-ing by the nationally respected Heartbreak production group. This event is part of the open-air festival in the Tuckwell Amphitheatre.Sherlock Holmes Thu 18 Jul. 7.30pm. £13 • This inventive and hilarious show for all ages features live music, audience interaction and more mystery than you can shake a magnifying glass at.Dotty the Dragon Sun 21 Jul. 5pm. £10/30 (family) • Narrating the high jinks of Dotty the baby fire dragon, the Blunderbus style perfectly suits the great outdoors, with an irresistible blend of music, puppetry and lashings of audience participation.

EVERYMAN THEATRERegent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573, www.every-mantheatre.org.ukBeauty and the Beast Tue 28 May-Sat 1 Jun. 2pm and 7pm. £13-£17 • A handsome, but arrogant prince is turned into a monstrous beast by an enchantress who sees no love in his heart. The only way he can break the spell is to learn to love another - and earn her love in return - before the last petal from an enchanted rose withers and falls.The Hound of the Baskervilles Wed 19 Jun-Sat 22 Jun. 7.45pm. £10.50/£9 • Conan Doyle’s clas-sic tale of a murderous hound is given a new bark by Jenny Wren Productions.

SALISBURY ARTS CENTRESalisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin Street, Salisbury, SP1 3UT. 01722 321744, wwwsalisburyartscentre.co.ukJeremy Strong – My Brother’s Famous Bottom Mon 27 May. 2.30pm. From £6.75 • Puffin’s King of Comedy introduces his latest book from the popular series. (SIAF)Bath Philharmonia and Young Carers - Listen To Us Thu 30 May. 6pm. From £1 • Young car-ers from the Wiltshire region come together to sing and dance in collaboration with the Bath Philharmonia. (SIAF)The Wimpy Kid Show Fri 31 May. 2.30pm. From £6.30 • Host Alastair brings the popular ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid’ books to life with fun activities and a quiz. (SIAF)Sammy’s Great Escape Sat 29 Jun. 11am-12.30pm. £4 • Follow turtle friends Sammy and Ray in their latest adventure when they are captured by poachers and shipped off to become part of an aquarium show.My Brother The Robot Sun 30 Jun. 11.30am-12.20pm. £7.50, £6.50 (concession) • This new show from the company that brought you ‘The Snail and the Whale’ combines futuris-tic humour, music and toddler friendly storytelling.Slapdash Galaxy Sun 7 Jul. 1pm-2pm. £7.50, £6.50 concessions, £24 (family of four) • An interga-lactic shadow puppet adventure for children aged 7+ which follows the epic tale of Sam and Junior as they flee their war torn planet and embark on a journey across the galaxy.

SALISBURY PLAYHOUSEMalthouse Lane, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP2 7RA. 01722 320333, www.salisburyplayhouse.com Rumpelstiltskin – Hiccup Theatre Sun 26 May. 12pm and 2.30pm, from £5.85 • Suitable for 3-7 year olds, the classic fairy tale is given a refreshing make over by Hiccup Theatre. Mixing live music, puppetry and story-telling to nar-rate the sneaky escapades of one sneaky trickster. (SIAF)Pep Bou – Rebufaplanetes Mon 27 May. 7.30pm. From £10 • Incorporating theatrical show-manship with technical precision,

catch the Catalan mime artist perform his unique show that has been entertaining audiences around the world since 1982. (SIAF)Eva Katzler – Florentine and Pig Tue 28 May. 12pm. From £4.50 • Meet the author of Florentine and Pig as she discusses themes of friendship, frolics and food that appear within her imaginative story. Suitable for ages 3-7 (SIAF)Knick Knack and Doo Dad – Lyngo Theatre Sat 1 Jun. 12.30pm and 3pm. From £5.85 • Knick Knack lives on a big, smelly rubbish island and has been there so long he’s forgotten how to smile. This interactive show encourages audience members to transform trash into amazing new toys to promote recycling. (SIAF) London Sinfonietta – At The World’s Edge Mon 3 Jun. 7pm. From £7.50 • Suitable for ages 8+ this imaginative show uses pup-petry, music, spoken text and song to tell the story of Greek goddess Persephone, Zeus’s daughter, who’s abducted to the under-world. (SIAF)Spot – La Baracca Wed 5 Jun. 11.30am. From £5.40 • The inter-national theatre company’s latest show explores children’s fascina-tion with light by drawing shapes and colours on the stage floor. (SIAF)Nobody Rides The Unicorn – Puppetcraft Sat 8 Jun. 11.30am and 4.30pm. From £5.85 • Perfect for children aged 4 and over, this puppet show based on the book by Adrian Mitchell follows the plight of Zoe and her new found magical friend. (SIAF)

SWINDON ARTS CENTREDevizes Road, Old Town, Swindon, SN1 4BJ. 01793 614837, www.swindon.gov.uk/artscentreWind in the Willows Wed 29 May. 2pm. £8 (adult)/£6 (child)/£25 (family) • Kenneth Grahame’s famous tales of the river bank are brought to life in this vibrant musical production by the Image Musical Theatre.Comedy Club 4 Kids Sat 21 Sep. 2pm. £6.50 • Some of the biggest names in comedy perform child-friendly sets that will entertain the whole family. Suitable for ages 6+

THE WYVERN THEATRETheatre Square, Swindon, Wiltshire SN1 1QN. 01793 524481, www.wyverntheatre.org.uk.Grandpa in my Pocket Thu 6 Jun-Sun 9 Jun. 6.30pm (Thu) 10.30am and 6.30pm (Fri), 10.30am and 1.30pm (Sat). 10.30am and 1.30pm (Sun). £15 (adult)/£13 (child) • Sunnysands Pirate, Horatio Heave Ho takes Jason and Jemima on an adven-ture but when things go wrong, it’s time for Grandpa to put on his shrinking cap. Isambard Summer Show: Little Shop of Horrors Tue 16-Wed 17 Jul. 7.30pm. £7.50/£5 • Isambard Community School presents its latest production of this satirical musical based on the 1980s film.

Nobody Rides the Unicorn, Salisbury Playhouse, Sat 8 Jun. Part of the Salisbury International Arts Festival

PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES!


»

Productions marked (SIAF) are part of Salisbury

International Arts Festival www.salisburyfestival.co.uk

13 Avon Theatre listings May 2013.indd 10 5/8/2013 10:50:59 AM


.CO.UK

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Deadlines: List your school’s sum-mer events in Primary Times for free. We work a half-term in advance so we’re now collecting information copy for August and September 2013: dead-line Mon 17 June. If your event is to raise cash for a school or charity, and is open to the public, we want to know. Email [email protected].

PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVELWhile we make every effort to ensure these listings are accurate and up to date, event information can some-times change after we’ve gone to press. Please check with the venue or organiser before you set off to an event to make sure it’s going ahead as planned . . . and tell them you saw it in Primary Times!

MAYONGOINGEXPLORE YOUR UNIVERSE FAMILY SHOWAt-Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www.at-bristol.org.uk • Discover more about our universe, explore the world of atoms and particle accelerators and find out just how light and electricity work. 8+

ONGOINGMINI MOVERS AND GROOVERSUphill Village Hall, Waycott, 96 Uphill Way, Uphill, Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset, BS23 4XP. 07973 839453, www.fit-com.co.uk, 10.30am-11.30am, first class free then £17.50 for five week course • A fun class where children can play, exercise, make

music and meet new friends. Refreshments provided. For ages 18 months-3 years.

ONGOINGEXPLORE OUR WORLDAt-Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www.at-bristol.org.uk, drop-in sessions through-out the day, admission charges apply • The Live Lab area is trans-formed into an electrifying earth-quake and volcano zone.

ONGOINGGOOD VIBRATIONSAt-Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www.at-bristol.org.uk, drop-in sessions through-out the day, admission charges apply • Discover how sound is pro-duced by making music with some interesting instruments.

ONGOINGST MARY’S SCRAPPERSSt Mary’s C.E. Primary School, Church Road, Yate, South Gloucestershire. 10am-4pm, £5 for a table, optional scrapbook class most months for £2.50 • Taking place on the last Sunday of every month, this small group raises money for the school with members bringing along a whole host of crafts that include scrap-booking, sewing, card making, quilting, crochet and knitting.

ONGOINGEVENING PARENT’S SUPPORT GROUPClevedon YMCA, Marson Road, Clevedon, BS21 7NN. 01275 878405, [email protected], 7.30pm, free • This weekly group

meets every Tuesday to offer sup-port for parents of children with additional or challenging needs.

UNTIL MON 27 MAYEAT DRINK BRISTOL FASHIONQueen Square, Bristol, BS1. www.eatdrinkevents.co.uk, see website for prices • For two weeks Queen Square will host a ‘tipi village’ that will house a fine dining restaurant for 100 people, a tapas café for 200 people, fully licensed bars, a live performance stage and an exhibition space.

UNTIL SAT 15 JUNEDWARD JENNER SCHOOL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY MORNINGSEdward Jenner School, 4 Pitt Street, Gloucester, GL1 2BH. 10am-12noon • Enjoy science and technology activities every Wednesday and Saturday morn-ing and register for the school’s launch event. Free refreshments.

UNTIL SUN 30 JUNADAM HENSON’S SHEARING DEMONSTRATIONSCotswold Farm Park, Guiting Power, nr. Cheltenham, Glos. GL54 5UG, www.cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk, see website for times and prices • Find out how your woolly jumper starts its life and don’t forget to visit the farm park’s conservation area, complete with wormery and bee-hive, to discover the importance of wildlife in our landscape.

UNTIL SUN 7 JULKITCHEN CHEMISTRYAt-Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www.at-bristol.org.uk, regular daily shows, free with standard admission, drop in sessions throughout the day • This culinary show investigates the chemistry behind flavour. Plus fun experiments that will tickle the taste buds!

UNTIL SUN 21 JULPHARAOH: KING OF EGYPTBristol Museum and Art Gallery, Queens Road, Bristol, BS8 1RL. 0117 922 3571, www.bristol.gov.uk/museums, 10am-5pm, £5 (adults), £4 (concessions), £3 (children 5-16), free (under 5s) • This exhibi-tion presents the extravagance and opulence of the ancient kings and queens of Egypt. Discover life-size statues, stone reliefs and intricate jewellery that explore the challenges of ruling this dynamic and unique civilisation.

UNTIL SUN 3 NOVMILKING DEMONSTRATIONSCotswold Farm Park, Guiting Power, nr. Cheltenham, Glos. GL54 5UG, see website for times and prices • Discover where your

cereal milk comes from and don’t forget to visit the farm park’s conservation area, complete with wormery and bee-hive, to discover the importance of wildlife in our landscape.

UNTIL 31 DECFIFTY FABULOUS FROCKS EXHIBITIONFashion Museum, Assembly Rooms, Bennett Street, Bath, BA1 2QH. 01225 477789, www.fash-ionmuseum.co.uk, open 10.30am-4pm through Feb, 10.30am-5pm from Mar-Oct, admission charges apply • A classic collection of fashion throughout the ages, including iconic names in 20th century fashion such as Christian Dior and Yves Saint Laurent to the most desired brands of now like Burberry and Erdem.

SAT 18 MAYOPEN MORNINGRose Hill Westonbirt School, Tetbury, Gloucestershire, GL8 8QG. 01666 880333, www.westonbirt.gloucs.sch.uk, 9.30am-12.30pm • Aimed at parents of chil-dren making the move into Year 3, parents can use this morning to talk about their child’s future with this independent day school.

FRI 24 MAYPARTY IN THE CITYVarious Bath Venues. 01225 462231, www.bathfestivals.org.uk, 5.30pm-10.30pm, free • As part of the Bath International Music Festival this large free show returns when the city invites 100 local music acts to perform in venues all over town. The evening opens with a colourful parade through the city centre comprised of dancers and musicians.

FRI 24 MAYA LITTLE BOOK OF MONSTERSBath Abbey, 12 Kingston Buildings, Bath, BA1 1LT. 01225 422462, www.bathabbey.org, 6pm, free


Your ultimate family diary of what’s on, where & when

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Bristol’s Park Street becomes a children’s playground on Sun 23 Jun as part of Big Green Week (15-23 June)

We are Family, Arnolfini, Bristol, Sat 25 May

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• Award-winning composer Stephen Deazley and wordsmith Matt Harvey host the Love Music Ensemble backed by a choir of local primary school children. Extraordinary monsters populate a range of ghoulish songs that will delight and entertain.

FRI 24-MON 27 MAYGLOUCESTER TALL SHIPS 2013The Docks, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL1 2ER. 01452 396572, www.thecityofgloucester.co.uk/tallships, free • Over the Spring Bank Holiday a fleet of ships dock in the city’s Victorian Docks. Aside from the impressive vessels, living history characters and swashbuckling pirates enter-tain while live music, arts, crafts, food stalls and kids’ activities line the water.

FRI 24 MAY-SAT 8 JUNAGEAS SALISBURY INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL (SIAF)Various venues around Salisbury. 0845 241 9651, www.salisbury-festival.co.uk • Salisbury’s largest international arts festival returns for another year offering a wide range of events throughout the

city. Festival events listed below are marked (SIAF).

SAT 25 MAYCURZON KIDS FILM CLUB: BUGSY MALONECurzon Community Cinema, 46-48 Old Church Road, Clevedon, North Somerset. 01275 879115, www.curzon.org.uk, 10am, £3.50, advance booking 01275 871000 or online • Get along in costume to this sing-along version of the 1929 New York-set gangster comedy musical with an all child cast.

SAT 25 MAYCLOSE ENCOUNTERS (SIAF)6 The Close, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP1 2EJ. 0845 241 9651, www.salisburyfestival.co.uk, 2pm, free • A full day of entertainment beginning with festival favourite, the Playday, and ending with fire-works.

SAT 25 MAYSTORIES AT NIGHT: WHISPERS FROM THE MILK WOODTyntesfield, Wraxall, North Somerset, BS48 1NX. 01275 461900, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/tyntesfield, 6pm-8pm, £10, booking essential 0844 249 1895 • A magical evening of stories, songs and sounds courtesy of ‘In the Milkwood’ and Martin Maudsley.

SAT 25 MAYWE ARE FAMILYArnolfini, 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol, BS1 4QA. 0117 917 2300, www.arnolfini.org.uk, 1pm, free • Join the learning team and explore the exhibitions through exciting and engaging activities for families to do together. (Takes place on last Saturday of every month.)

SAT 25 MAYWARDEN ACTIVITIESOld Down Country Park, Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol, BS32 4PG. 01454 414081, www.old-

downcountrypark.co.uk, 11.30am and 2pm, free with park entry • Make a bird feeder in Animal Encounters (11.30am). Nature Bingo Meet at the sandpit by the shop (2pm).

SAT 25-SUN 26 MAYMAIURTA – LOS GALINDOS (SIAF)6 The Close, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP1 2EJ. 0845 241 9651, www.salisburyfestival.co.uk, Sat 2.30pm & 4.30pm, Sun 12.30pm, from £9, book online • This intrigu-ing Catalan circus act uses flour and dough to weave a magical tale from an amnesiac clown’s memories.

SAT 25-MON 27 MAY BRISTOL HARBOUR RAILWAY TRAIN RIDESM Shed Dockside, Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol, BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.mshed.org, 11am-5pm trips every 40 mins, £4 (all day rover)/£1/£2 (single/return)/free (under 6s) • Be trans-ported back to the days of steam and take a ride along the harbour on one of M Shed’s biggest exhib-its, Henbury Steam Locomotive.

SAT 25–MON 27 MAYUPFESTThe Tobacco Factory, Raleigh Road, Bristol, BS3 1TF and North Street, Bedminster, BS3. www.upfest.co.uk, free • Two hundred local and international street art-ists descend upon South Bristol to show off their skills during the May Bank Holiday. Now in its sixth year, this urban art festival is based at the Tobacco Factory where graffiti workshops encour-age families to pick up spray cans and get creative!

SAT 25 MAY–SUN 2 JUNDOWNY DUCKLING DAYSWildfowl and Wetlands Trust Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, GL2 7BT. 01453 891900, www.wwt.org.uk/visit/

slimbridge, 9.30am-5pm, free with normal admission prices • A chance to go behind-the-scenes at the Duckery to learn how Slimbridge rears thousands of young birds each year. Learn about eggs, incubation and hatch-ing. Downy Duckling tours run through the week.

SUN 26 MAYWOODLAND BUSHCRAFTOld Down Country Park, Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol, BS32 4PG. 01454 414081, www.old-downcountrypark.co.uk, 1pm, free with park entry • Taster session in the woods, a free drop-in event in conjunction with ‘Schools in the Forest.’

MON 27 MAYTEDDY BEAR’S PICNICOld Down Country Park, Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol, BS32 4PG. 01454 414081, www.old-downcountrypark.co.uk, 1pm-4pm, admission charges apply • Take teddy bears and blankets to reserve your place on the Manor House Lawns and enjoy a picnic. Storytelling, games and a treasure hunt will keep the children happy.


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PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES! ROUNDABOUTROUNDABOUT

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Longwell Green

Scouts need help

The 46th Kingswood (First Longwell Green) Scout Group is looking for volunteers to help run its Beavers section, which meets every Thursday evening at the Longwell Green Community Centre, Bristol. The group tells Primary Times that if it can’t find the right people to help, it faces closure.

If you’re interested, contact Katie McCavana on 0117 960 1862.

Flagging up Gloucester Tall Ships, 24-27 May

Downy Duckling Days, Slimbridge, 25 May - 2 Jun



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PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES!

MON 27 MAYLET THE GAMES BEGIN!M Shed Dockside, Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol, BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.mshed.org, 10am-5pm • Pretend to be a Victorian child and try your hand at historic board and card games. From Jack in his Box to Jacob’s Ladder – a chance for visitors of all ages to play with toys from generations past. Suitable for 5+

MON 27-FRI 31 MAYBRILLIANT BEASTSRoman Baths, Abbey Church Yard, Bath, BA1 1LZ. 01225 477785, www.romanbaths.co.uk, 10am & 2pm • Drop in sessions available where you can use ani-mals found in the Roman Baths collection to make a beastly fridge magnet.

MON 27 MAY-SAT 1 JUNVIP ANIMAL ENCOUNTERSNoah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Clevedon Road, Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1PG. www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk, 10.30am-5pm, extra charge and encounter times apply • Spend 15 minutes with an owl, giraffe, tapir, big cat or a meerkat. The short encounters will involve meeting, feeding and interacting with the animals in small groups of three.

TUE 28 MAYMODELLING CHOCOLATE!M Shed Dockside, Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol, BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.mshed.org, £3 per child (suitable for ages 5+), 11am & 2pm • Join art-ist Marie Toseland in this family workshop to make your own edible sculpture. Use images and music as inspiration and learn the techniques of sculpting with chocolate clay.

WED 29 MAYANCIENT EGYPT DISCOVERY DAYBristol Museum and Art Gallery, Queens Road, Bristol, BS8 1RL. 0117 922 3571, www.bristol.gov.uk/page/leisure-and-culture/bristol-museum-and-art-gallery, 11am-3pm, free • Get your hands on real Egyptian objects and take part in Egyptian-themed activi-ties.

WED 29 MAYBABE THE SHEEP PIG – ILLYRIA (SIAF)The Wardrobe Museum Gardens, 58 The Close, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP1 2EX. 01722 419419, www.thewardrobe.org.uk, 3.30pm. From £7.50 • The Illyria thea-tre company brings Dick-King

Smith’s delightful tale about the adventurous pig to a unique gar-den setting.

WED 29 MAYWEAVING WORKSHOPSYate Heritage Centre, Church Road, Yate, Bristol, BS37 5BG. 01454 862200, www.yateherit-age.co.uk, 10.30am & 2pm, free but donations welcome, book-ing essential • Learn about the ancient art of weaving and create your own woven object in this unu-sual and wonderful workshop.

THU 30 MAYCASTLE COMBE SUMMER SERIES 5Castle Combe Cycling Festival & Severn Bridge Sportive, Castle Combe Circuit, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN14 7EY, 01249 782417, www.castlecombecyclingfestival.co.uk • A range of competitive youth cycling events will be taking place in the evening.

THU 30 MAYMOSAIC WORKSHOPSYate Heritage Centre, Church Road, Yate, Bristol, BS37 5BG. 01454 862200, www.yateherit-age.co.uk, 10.30am & 2pm, free but donations welcome, booking essential • Make your own animal designs using pieces of mosaic in our fun workshop. FRI 31 MAY-SUN 2 JUNWYCHWOOD FESTIVALCheltenham Racecourse, Prestbury Park, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 4SH. www.wychwoodfestival.com, see web-site for opening hours and ticket prices • This year is the ninth annual Wychwood Festival, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and the big range of music on offer, plus loads of other activities including 100 workshops for all ages, comedy, cinema and much more.

JUNESAT 1 JUNWILD GIRLLeigh Woods, Bristol, BS8 3PZ. Park on North Road and follow signs. 08442 491895, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/leigh-woods, 2pm (60 mins), £8 (adult)/£6 (child)/£30 (family of five), book-ing essential via website or tel-ephone • This woodland play nar-rates the journey of a wild girl as she emerges from the forest. Will she be able to live her life in nature or be forced to conform to modern day society?

SAT 1-SUN 2 JUNTRIP ABOARD THE FIRE BOAT PYRONAUTM Shed Dockside, Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol, BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.mshed.org, £5 (adult)/£3 (child/concession), 12pm-5pm trips last 30 mins • Watch the powerful water can-non at work on Bristol’s former fire boat, during a trip around the docks that she was built to protect.

Pyronaut served in Bristol from 1934 until 1973, working particu-larly hard in the Blitz in 1940-41.

SAT 1 JUN-SUN 2 JUNWW2 WEEKEND: DIG FOR VICTORYTyntesfield, Wraxall, North Somerset, BS48 1NX. 01275 461900, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/tyntesfield, 10am-4pm, admis-sion charges apply • Turn up in 1940s outfits and step back in time to soak up some history, complete with military vehicles, costumed re-enactors and plenty of music and dancing. Family walks avail-able.

SUN 2 JUNMERCURY MENDIP CHALLENGEStarts at Westhaven School, Ellesmere Road, Weston-Super-Mare, BS23 4UT. 01934 423900, www.westonhospicecaregroup.org.uk/events, 7am, £7.50 (adult)/£5 (child) • Choose from four different walking routes, including the five mile fun walk where fancy dress is not only encouraged but a prize is given for the best costume, and families are welcome. Raise money for Weston Hospicecare by getting sponsored, and enjoy a tasty BBQ and music in Uphill once you fin-ish the walk.

TUE 4 JUNHISTORICAL WALK: EXPLORE THE FLOATING HARBOURM Shed Dockside, Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol, BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.mshed.org, 10.30am, £2 suggested donation, book in advance by telephone • Join expert guides as they take you on a trip into Bristol’s old docklands, pointing out its mari-time heritage and supplementing the tour with a wealth of interest-ing photographs and maps.

SAT 8 JUNBIG GREEN WEEK: GET GROWING GARDEN TRAILVarious garden sites around Bristol. www.bristolfoodnetwork.org, 10am-5pm, free • Over 20 sites around Bristol are open to the public, revealing gardening tips and advice.

SAT 8 JUNCAR BOOT SALECharborough Road Primary School, Charborough Road, Filton, Bristol, BS34 7RA. 10am-1pm, £6 per car/£8 per van, 10p (adult)/free (child) • Strictly no admittance to buyers before 10am, sellers access from 9am. No electrical goods. No smok-ing or pets on school grounds. Refreshments available.

SAT 8 JUNWILDLIFE DAYNoah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Clevedon Road, Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1PG. www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk, 10.30am, £13 (adult)/£9.50 (child)/£41 (family) • Learn more about local wildlife and see how you can get involved in local con-servation projects.

SAT 8-SUN 9 JUNHIGH FLYERS AT WESTONThe Beach, Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, BS23 1AA. 0117 977 2002, www.kite-festival.org.uk, all day, free • Invited guest fly-ers will join with local kite group Avon Kite Flyers in staging aerial displays on the beach throughout the weekend. Spectators will be able to enjoy colourful kites of all shapes and sizes with giant 3D creatures, awesome power kites and synchronised team routines flown to music.

SUN 14 JUNDINO-TOUR CYCLE TREASURE HUNTBristol and Bath railway path. www.cyclewest.co.uk, 01454 863640, 10am-4pm • Families will track dinosaur-related clues along the route with a chance of winning one of a number of prizes.

FRI 14 JUN & FRI 26 JULSUNSET SPECIALS AT BRISTOL ZOOBristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 3HA. 0117 974 7399, www.bristolzoo.org.uk, £12 (adult)/£8 (child)/free (under 2s), book tickets online or call 0117 974 7300 • A rare afterhours opportu-nity to enjoy the sun going down at the zoo. Animal displays, face painting and entertainment cour-tesy of the Cotswold Big Band.

SAT 15 JUNHENLEAZE SCHOOL MAYFAIR 2013Park Grove, Henleaze, Bristol. 2pm, £1 (adult)/ free (pre-school child) • Henleaze and Claremont School’s annual Mayfair event is packed with lots of enter-tainment for the whole family: Maypole dancing, children’s fairground rides, bouncy castle and slide, books, white elephant, BBQ, hog roast, live music and more.

SAT 15 JUN & SAT 13 JULCAR BOOT SALEAbbeywood Community School, New Road, Stoke Gifford, BS34 8SF. 9.30am, seller access from 8.30am, no need to book

Join the Big Stroll South West, Sat 15 Jun

Youngsters take the Mercury Mendip Challenge, Sun 2 Jun

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• Browse the numerous stalls. Entry is by donation and no dogs allowed. There will be toilets and refreshments available on site.

SAT 15 JUNBIG STROLL SOUTH WESTAvon Valley, Bristol and Bath. 0117 303 3347, www.meningi-tisUK.org, registration at 8am to start at 9am, charity fundraising • Fight meningitis and get some exercise with this nine mile walk, starting at the Lock Keeper pub, Keynsham, and passing by some of Bristol’s most alluring land-marks to its conclusion at the Kings Arms pub in Clifton.

SAT 15 JUNBIG GREEN WEEK: SOUTHVILLE CENTRE’S GREEN DAYThe Southville Centre, Beauley Road, Bristol, BS3 1QG. 0117 942 2398, www.southvillecentre.org.uk and www.biggreenweek.com, 10am-3pm, free • A day of eco-celebration family activi-ties. Scrapstore will be getting creative with waste materials plus talks from ethical bankers ‘Triodos’ and ‘Bristol Pound’ and a herbal walk through the city courtesy of ‘Urban Fringe’.

SAT 15 JUNFATHER’S DAYNoah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Clevedon Road, Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1PG. www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk, 10.30am-5pm, fathers go for £5 • Take your father, grandfather or stepfather to enjoy the zoo farm at a discounted rate for this special day. Download the voucher from the events page on the website.

SAT 15-SUN 16 JUNBIG GREEN WEEK: BRISTOL FESTIVAL OF NATURE Bristol Harbourside, BS1 5LL. 0117 317 8751, www.bnhc.org.uk and www.biggreenweek.com, 10am-5pm, free • Bringing together 150 organisations, this claims to be the UK’s larg-est free natural history event, giving wildlife enthusiasts of all ages the chance to explore the natural world through hands-on activities and live entertain-ment.

SAT 15-SUN 16 JUNBIG GREEN WEEK: FESTIVAL OF NATURE BOAT TOURArnolfini, 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol, BS1 4QA. 0117 917 2300, www.arnolfini.org.uk, 11.30am & 5.30pm, free, book online • Celebrate Europe’s biggest natural history festival by taking a boat ride around Bristol.

SUN 16 JUNEFIRST CHEW VALLEY 10KM ROAD RACE & FAMILY FUN RUNBishop Sutton Primary School, Wick Road, BS39 5XD, [email protected], 9.30am. £13/£11 (10km race), £3 (fun run), enter online • The new Chew Valley 10k and a 1km children’s Fun Run will both start and finish at Bishop Sutton Primary School (Wick Road, BS39 5XD), close to Chew Valley lake. Runners in the 10km must be aged 15 or over. All Fun Runners receive a race number and medal on comple-tion. Pre-race mass warm-up, plus refreshments and entertainment.

SUN 16 JUNBIG GREEN WEEK: BRISTOL’S BIGGEST BIKE RIDEBristol Millennium Square, Canon’s Road, Bristol, BS1 5DB. www.betterbybike.info and www.biggreenweek.com, 9am-10.30am, register online • Choose from a selection of routes ranging from 9 to 38 miles and head off on one of the largest non-competitive cycling events in the UK. See Page 4 feature.

SUN 16 JUNBIG GREEN WEEK: AFRICAN SAMBISTAS DANCE WORKSHOPQueens Square, Bristol, BS1 4LH. www.biggreenweek.com, 2pm-5pm, free • Sample a free dance workshop and live drumming courtesy of the African Sambistas as part of Refuge Week. Expects lots of dancing and tasty food stalls.

SUN 16 JUNBIG GREEN WEEK: FATHERS’ DAY FAMILY WOODLAND ADVENTUREBristol Forest School, Leigh Court Farm Ltd, Pill Road, Abbots Leigh, Bristol, BS8 3RA. 0117 977 1830,

www.bristolforestschool.co.uk & www.biggreenweek.com, 1pm-4pm, £8 (adult)/£5 (child)/free (dads), booking essential: email [email protected] • Enjoy this year’s Father’s Day by exploring nature at this woodland adventure day.

TUE 18 JUN–SUN 15 SEPSUMMER NIGHT SKY PLANETARIUM SHOWAt-Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www.at-bristol.org.uk, admission charges apply • Discover how to navigate the cosmos with this presenter-led show. On the way you’ll find far-off planets, explore distant constel-lations and spot some colourful stars.

SUN 19 JUNMINI BEAST HUNTLeigh Woods, Bristol, BS8 3PZ. Park on North Road and follow the signs. 08442 491895, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/leigh-woods, 10am & 12.30pm, £3.50, booking essential via website or telephone • Join the head ranger in the search of mini beasts and creatures that lurk under logs and stones.

THU 20 JUNJOHN LAWSON’S CIRCUS TOURBridge Farm Primary School, East Dundry Road, Whitchurch, BS14 0LL. 01275 834079, 4pm and 6.30pm, £7.50, book tickets by phone or [email protected] • Voted Britain’s best circus, watch dazzling acro-bats and cheeky clowns at two special shows this June.

SAT 22 JUNWOMAD 2013 AT BRISTOL ZOOBristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 3HA. 0117 974 7399, www.bristolzoo.org.uk, 6pm-11pm, £22 (adult)/£5 (child)/free (under 5s), book online • Music and dance from around the world showcased at the zoo this summer as it partners with world-renowned music festival, WOMAD, for the third year run-ning.

SAT 22 JUNBIG GREEN WEEK: BRISTOL’S BIG MARKETCorn Street, Bristol, BS1. www.biggreenweek.com, 11am-6pm, free • A plethora of stalls sell everything from artisan food and drink to vintage curios, arts and crafts, Fair Trade products and more.

SAT 22 JUNBIG GREEN WEEK: BRISTOL URBAN GARDEN PARTYThe Island, Nelson Street, Bristol, BS1 2LE. 01173 763457, www.theislandbristol.com, 12pm, free • For one day only the courtyard of the Old Police Station becomes an eclectic garden offering plenty of activities. Workshops covering cycling, micro-gardening, art and music are on offer.

SAT 22 JUNBIG GREEN WEEK: THE ULTRABIKE: A MIRACLE OF SCIENCEAmphitheatre, Bristol Harbourside, BS1 5LL. www.big-greenweek.com, 11am-3pm, free • This remarkable bike allows blind or visually impaired people to cycle independently using the power of ultrasound. Check out this technology in action.

SAT 22 JUNSTANBRIDGE PRIMARY SCHOOL SUMMER FAYREStanbridge Road, Downend, Bristol, BS16 6AL. 11am-2pm • The summer fayre with a Spanish theme.

SAT 22 JUNCURZON KIDS FILM CLUB: ELEANOR’S SECRETCurzon Community Cinema, 46-48 Old Church Road, Clevedon, North Somerset. 01275 879115, www.curzon.org.uk, 10am, £3.50, advance booking 01275 871000 or online • After Nathanael inherits his eccentric’s aunt book col-lection, he discovers that all the heroes of children’s literature have taken shelter in the books and are now counting on him to save them.

SAT 22-SUN 23 JUNBIKE BATHVarious locations around Bath. www.bikebath.co.uk • The routes on Saturday head to the south of Bath on a rolling course with a few hills. The routes incorporate Britain’s longest cycle tunnel and a series of feed stations featuring gourmet produce from local food and drink suppliers.

SAT 22-SUN 23 JUNEASTCOMBE GNOME HUNTEastcombe Primary School, Dr Crouchs Road, Eastcombe, Gloucestershire GL6 7EA. 2pm-5.30pm • An invasion of gnomes descends upon the picturesque village of Eastcombe. Starting in the school’s playground, par-ticipants are invited to find the gnomes, collect clues and solve the puzzle to win a gnome of their own.

SUN 23 JUNBIG GREEN WEEK: PARK STREET PLAYGROUNDPark Street, Bristol, BS1. www.biggreenweek.com, 11am, free • A mass takeover of Bristol’s iconic Park Street sees 1,000 local chil-dren and parents playing games on the road during the car free day.

SUN 23 JUNBIG GREEN WEEK: MOBILE SORTING OFFICE 451Broad Quay, Bristol, BS1. www.kiltertheatre.org and www.big-greenweek.com, 11am-6pm, free • Kilter is a pioneering low-carbon theatre that puts on eco-friendly productions. Join it for a letter writing emporium and miniature theatre accompanied by live music.

ROUNDABOUTROUNDABOUTPLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES!


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Father’s Day at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Sat 15 Jun

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SUN 23 JUNBIG GREEN WEEK: EXTREME MOUNTAIN BIKE SHOWCollege Green, Bristol, BS1. www.extrememountainbikeshow.co.uk or www.biggreenweek.com, 12pm-5pm, free • Danny Butler - five times British and European men’s elite trials champion – and BMX champion Matti Hemmings will be wowing crowds throughout the day with an impressive set of stunts.

SUN 23 JUNBIG GREEN WEEK: ATMOSPHERE ELECTRIC BIKES WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPPark Street, Bristol, BS1. www.biggreenweek.com and www.electricbikes.org.uk, 2pm, free • Electric bicycles are pitted against each other to compete for the esteemed Atmosphere Electric Trophy.

MON 24 JUN-SUN 7 JULCELEBRATING AGE FESTIVALColston St, Bristol, BS1 5AR. 0117 927 6614, www.bristol.gov.uk/cel-ebratingage • Being over 55 is no excuse to stop going to festivals, so kids get your mum, dad, granny or granddad up out their seat and down celebrating. Lots of things to do, from singing and dancing to writing, craft making, gardening and baking.

SAT 29 JUNSCHOOL FAIRSt.Anne’s Infant & Junior Schools Summer Fair, BS4 4EJ. 12pm, free • Children’s crafts, local traders, stalls, games, face painting, cafe and much more!

JULYMON 1-SUN 28 JULPAGES OF THE PAST TRAILLacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum and Village, Lacock, near Chippenham, SN15 2LG. 01249 730459, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock, 10.30am-5.30pm, standard admission applies • Discover weird and wonderful facts about medieval bookmak-ing as you step back in time to medieval Lacock on this self-led family trail.

WED 3 JULROMEO AND JULIETWestonbirt School. Tetbury, Gloucestershire GL8 8QG. 01666 880333, www.westonbirt.gloucs.sch.uk, 7pm, £14.50 (adult)/£5 (student & under 18s)/free (under 7s), pre book tickets by phone or email [email protected] • Enjoy this outdoor performance of Shakespeare’s enduring tale. The school’s grounds opens at 6pm for a pre-show picnic.

THU 4-SUN 7 JULTHE BARBURY INTERNATIONAL EVENTING AND SHOWMarlborough, Wiltshire, SN8 1RS. 01672 516125, www.barburyhorse-

trials.co.uk, all day, £18/£12 (see promotional offer below) • An exciting blend of fun, food and spectacle, the trials host Olympic winners performing on a special course designed by Captain Mark Phillips. Top chefs will be providing mouth-watering cuisine for those feeling peckish. Primary Times readers can get free entry for one adult with every adult ticket pur-chased. Simply enter promotional code PRIMARY when buying tick-ets online.

FRI 5-SAT 6 JULBIOBLITZCranham Scout Centre, Cranham, Gloucestershire, GL4 8HP. 07964246113, www.cotswoldnnrbioblitz.weebly.com, Fri 10am–Sat 2pm • This summertime BioBlitz invites naturalists, students, school children and the public to explore and record local wildlife.

SAT 6 JULDECOMPOSED! (CMF)Parabola Arts Centre, Parabola Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 3AA. 01242 707338, www.parabolaartscentre.co.uk, 11am-12pm, £8 (adult)/£5 (child), book online • Brothers Roland Taylor and Tim Armstrong Taylor a.k.a. Classical Mayhem take the audience on a slapstick, interactive whirlwind tour of clas-sical music. Suitable for 7+

SAT 6 JULCHURCHILL PRIMARY SCHOOL PTA FUNDRAISING FAIRChurchill Primary School, Pudding Pie Lane, Langford, Bristol, North Somerset, BS40 5EL. 12pm • Maypole dancing, inflatables, chil-dren’s games to play, BBQ, bar, tea and cakes plus guest stalls selling a variety of craft and food items. Educational animal organisation Edupet is also present with its amazing collection of animals. SAT 6-SUN 7 JULRACE FOR LIFEThe Downs, Bristol, BS8 2RS. www.raceforlife.cancerresear-chuk.org, 2pm (Sat, 10k), 11am (Sun, 5k), £14.99 (adult)/£10 (child) • Fight cancer in the Bristol round of Race For Life. This inspir-ing women-only series of events

raises millions of pounds every year to help defeat cancer by funding life-saving research.

SAT 6-SUN 7 JULCOTSWOLD SHOWBathurst Estate, Cirencester Park, Cirencester, GL7 2BU. 01285 652007, www.cotswoldshow.co.uk, 9am, £10 (adult)/£4 (child)/£27 (family) • This year marks the show’s 25th anniversary and the site has been extended with over 50 booked attractions including motorcycle display teams and the National Festival Circus.

SUN 7 JULQUILL AND PARCHMENTLacock Abbey, Fox Talbot Museum and Village, Lacock, near Chippenham, SN15 2LG. 01249 730459, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock, 10.30am, standard admission applies • Meet mem-bers of Black Knight Living History group who will be demonstrating the fascinating art of making medieval manuscripts.

SUN 7 JULJAMES MAYHEW’S PAINTED FIREBIRD (CMF)Parabola Arts Centre, Parabola Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 3AA. 01242 707338, www.parabolaartscentre.co.uk, 11am, £8 (adult)/£5 (child), book online • Featuring Russian pianist Nikolai Ponomarev, Mayhew’s fiery tale of monsters, a terrible sorcerer, a magical king-dom and thirteen beautiful prin-cesses is brought to life. 7+

FRI 12-SUN 14 JULFOODIES FESTIVALBristol Harbourside. 0844 995 1111, www.foodiesfestival.com, 11am-8pm, £12 (one day adult - £10 concession)/£18 (three day adult - £15)/£38 (1-day VIP)/free (child under 12), book online or by phone • The �K’s largest celebra-The UK’s largest celebra-tion of food and drink will see visi-tors flock from the surrounding areas to feast on the vast array of culinary activities for the third consecutive year in Bristol. Quote discount code prim241 when pur-chasing tickets to get 2 for 1.

SAT 13 JULWORBEY AND FARRELLParabola Arts Centre,

Parabola Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 3AA. 01242 707338, www.parabolaartscentre.co.uk, 11am-12.15pm, £8 (adult)/£5 (child), book online • Blending comedy and amazing piano skills, this wacky duo are an act like no other.

SAT 13 JUL-SUN 21 JULBRISTOL CYCLE FESTIVALVarious locations around Bristol. www.bristolcyclefestival.com • Since 2010, Bristol Cycle Festival has been pulling together the best events that the city’s vibrant cycling community can provide. See our feature on Page 6 this issue for more information and website for full programme.

SUN 14 JULSTORYTELLING IN SONGParabola Arts Centre, Parabola Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 3AA. 01242 707338, www.parabolaartscentre.co.uk, 2pm-3pm, £8 (adult)/£5 (child), book online • Dominic Harlan’s impressive storytelling and song project returns with specially created new material. An interactive concert suitable for ages 7+.

SUN 14 JULARCHAEOLOGY AND CONSERVATION FAIRWiltshire and Swindon History Centre, Cocklebury Road, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 3QN. 01249 705500, www.wshc.eu, 11am-4pm, free • Meet 20 local organisations involved in archae-ology and find out about fieldwork opportunities, clubs for children, local societies and museums. Fun activities for children and a chance to handle objects from local museums.

SAT 20 JULFILM NIGHTS AT BRISTOL ZOOBristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 3HA. 0117 974 7399, www.bristolzoo.org.uk, book tickets online • Screenings of cult classics with The Lion King at 5pm and Ghostbusters at 8pm.

SAT 20-SUN 21 JULROYAL INTERNATIONAL AIR TATTOORAF Fairford, Gloucestershire, GL7 4RB. 7.30am-8.30pm • A weekend of aviation excellence.

WED 24 JULHOME EDUCATOR DAY: OUR CHANGING PLANETAt-Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www.at-bristol.org.uk, 10.30am, see website for prices, telephone booking 0845 345 3344 • Home educating families are invited to take part in exclusive activities which look at the planet’s polar regions.

ROUNDABOUTROUNDABOUT PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES!

20 MAY HALF TERM 2013 PRIMARY TIMES

Barbury International Eventing & Show, 4-7 Jul

LISTINGS BY ALEX SAUNDERS



During Child Safety Week, from 24th to 30th June, families will be encour-aged to make simple

changes to protect children from serious harm. The message from the Child Accident Prevention Trust (CAPT) to parents is, “You don’t have to be superhuman to be a safety hero.” The group suggests that the small actions parents make, day in and day out, prevent a child from suffering serious harm. CAPT is calling on parents and families to think of a few simple changes that they are able to make such as moving a hot drink out of reach or checking the safety gate on the stairs is shut. The week involves events up and down the country run by child-rens’ centres, playgroups, child-minders, schools, health centres, fire and rescue services and road safety departments. There will be activities for children and parents, demonstrations from fire, rescue and police services and car seat checking.CAPT are also offering safety advice by age group, letting par-ents know what to watch out for as their child grows up. One of the reasons children have accidents is because they develop so fast and mums and dads can’t keep up! Find out more at www.capt.org.uk/safety-advice or www.childsafety-week.org.uk

Keeping children safe on and near the roadsEvery year around 4,400 children under 10 years old are injured and around 22 killed as car passengers on British roads so it is essential for parents to teach their children some basic road safety skills.

General road safety tips • Teach young children that cars can be dangerous even when they are moving very slowly. • Be aware that if a car is revers-ing in a car park or a driveway, the driver may not be able to see a

very small child if they are below the level visible from their rear or side windows. • All children under 9 need help from an adult when crossing the road. Young children can’t judge distance in the same way as adults. They don’t know how fast a car or bike is going, and how long they have to cross the road. Teaching them the basics can be fun, and will give them a good start in road safety. • Children aged 7 to 11 are at real risk from road accidents as they are easily distracted and may run out on the road quickly. Children of this age may also struggle to judge speed and distances very well, but it’s a good age to learn the Green Cross Code, and the earlier they learn, the safer they will be. • It’s safest to hold your child’s hand in car parks just as you would when crossing the road. • The law says that all children under 12 and under 135cm should have a proper child restraint in the car. • Be careful that your child’s fin-gers are not caught in windows or doors when they are getting in or out of the car. • Older primary school aged children who love cycling are not old enough to cycle alone on

busy roads. But, with the right supervision, they can learn how to ride on the roads safely. Look for cycle training schemes such as Bikeability in your area – take a look at www.dft.gov.uk/bikeability Keeping children safe on and near water Children should be able to enjoy the water without being in danger, yet in the past six years, 30 chil-dren from the UK under the age of ten have drowned on holiday abroad. Children can slip silently under the water and drown quickly, which is why it is so impor-tant to be vigilant and always supervise young children closely around water. This is especially important when away on holiday, where the environment, regula-tions and routines are different, and parents will be relaxed and maybe off their guard.Water safety at home and away • Teach children that they must swim between the two-coloured red and yellow flags on UK beaches as these are patrolled by lifeguards. Make sure you watch children closely whenever they are in the water. For more informa-tion on beach safety see www.rnli.org.uk • Spend time explaining to older primary school aged children the

dangers of swimming in canals, lakes or rivers. Strong currents, deep water and objects in the water that they can’t see can be really dangerous. • All children aged under 8 should be supervised around water. Young children might understand instructions but are likely to forget them if they are having fun. • Be sure to empty the paddling pool as soon as you’re finished rather than leave it for the next day • Encourage children to swim in safe places like swimming pools that have trained lifeguards.

So, take positive action this Child Safety Week and make some small, but essential steps to creat-ing a safer environment for your family – it’ll be worth it!

Kirsty Woodgate casts a spotlight on child safety as holiday season looms.

PLAY IT SAFE



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Showcasing talent

St Katherine’s School is described by its students as, “The best place for young people to learn and grow up.”

It has been a Science College since 2003 and, as a High Performing Specialist School, has a second specialism of Applied Learning as well as being a Lead School for Gifted and Talented.

Students are involved in a host of events and extracurricular activities. There are also many outstanding opportunities including sports and music as part of its extensive Gifted and Talented programmes.

The school holds a Year 7 showcase evening on Thursday 4 Jul from 6–8pm, and invites current and prospective parents to join them. This evening gives parents, and those considering the school for their child’s secondary education, the opportunity to see some of the excellent work carried out by Year 7 students in their first year at the school. An open evening is also held on Thu 19 Sep.

Ffi: W: www.st-katherines.n-somerset.sch.uk

SABIS opens in Bath

The global edu-cation system and network of schools, SABIS, has announced the opening of the SABIS International School UK (SIS-UK). Situated on 148 acres of countryside near Bath, SIS-UK provides an environment in which students from the UK and around the world can form lifelong friendships while nurturing a thirst for lifelong learning.

SIS-UK will implement the SABIS Educational System, a comprehensive education system with a balance of academics, self-development and life preparation. Year after year, this proven system helps students achieve outstanding results at IGCSEs, A Levels, and the International Baccalaureate. SABIS graduates are accepted in the world’s most prestigious universities.

The school invites you to join them at its Open Day on Saturday the 18 May when you can meet teaching and pastoral staff and current students, tour the school grounds, and find out more about the SABIS® Educational System and its international network of schools.

Ffi: T: 01225 891028 E: [email protected]

Absolutely free!Bristol Festival of Nature, 15-16

Jun, Bristol Harbourside

Discover your wild side at the 10th anniversary of the Bristol Festival of Nature, returning to Bristol’s Harbourside this summer on Sat 15-Sun 16 Jun. Giving wildlife enthusiasts of all ages the opportunity to explore and enjoy the natural world in heart of the city, the festival brings together over 150 organisations for a programme of interactive exhibitions, hands-on experiences, live entertain-ment, a market packed with local pro-duce and much more.

Enjoy activities for the whole fam-ily, with animal encounters including a pop-up butterfly house and giant insects, a chance to meet the pre-senters of your favourite BBC nature shows, hands-on science activities and wildlife arts and crafts. On Sun 16 Jun, you can combine your visit with Bristol’s Biggest Bike Ride for a full free family day out in Bristol.

Ffi: www.festivalofnature.org

Have a harp Did you know your child can learn the Harmonica at school? And it’s fun, cheap, cool, portable, confi-dence-building, and easy to play.

HarpsCool.co.uk is a small, independent music service estab-lished in 1996 which offers harmonica lessons for children in school.

Head teachers have made com-ments like: “The impact of HarpsCool has been fantastic,”; “A whole new bunch are now playing music and enjoying it,”; “Learning the harmonica has had a manifest impact on other aspects of children’s learning and behaviour in school.”

Relatives like it too. The godmother of one child said. “Not sure if J was huffing and puffing in the right places, but his self-esteem has hit the roof.”

And you can organise Harmonica-themed birthday parties. One organ-iser said, “Just to say thank you for all your hard work at S’s birthday party. He would have liked to sit and play har-monica with you all evening. Fantastic fun!”

Ffi: T: 07599 561514 E: [email protected] W: www.HarpsCool.co.uk (press red button)

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Parents’ & teachers’

news, education & contactsPinboard

Joust in timeSee Cardiff Castle come alive on Sat 22 and Sun 23 June when the attrac-tion holds its annual Joust! The site will be trans-formed into a colourful medieval village, flags and pennants fluttering in the breeze, while the arena is set ready for the magnificent jousting tournament. Galloping into the grounds will be the brave knights with their banners held high ready to do battle.

Ffi: www.cardiffcastle.com

Shiver me timbers! Looking for a great idea for your child’s next birthday? Why not hire your local community, church or sports hall and throw a pirate party with the help of Pirate Attack? The kids will love it and it’ll be healthy, active, affordable and weather-proof.

Pirate Attack provides entertain-ment and games for public events and birthday parties throughout Avon.

Jess Wright of the venue Zion Community Art Space says, “Pirate Attack was a fantastic success at Zion. It was lovely to see the space being used in a different way and to see a mixture of ages enjoying themselves.”

A party package for up to 10 chil-dren, including two hour venue hire, bouncy castle and games, costs as little as £80, depending on your choice of venue. You can even combine par-ties, paying a small supplement for additional children (up to a maximum of 20).

Ffi: T: 0117 939 4311 W: www.pirateat-tack.co.uk E: [email protected]

13 Avon Pinboard May 2013.indd 1 5/8/2013 1:11:14 PM


SUMMER SCHOOLMonday 29th July to Thursday 1st August

9.00am to 4.00pm atDownend Folk House, Lincombe Barn,

Overndale Road, Downend, Bristol BS16 2RW

Call now to reserve your place.

p24.indd 1 5/3/2013 3:57:57 PM

Happy CampersFancy a touring break? Katy’s Campers offers:• New, genuine Volkswagen camper vans, with

all the charm of the iconic orginals and the safety and reliability of new engines.• Four or five seats in all vehicles, with three point seat belts for a baby or child seat.• Clever, modern fixtures and fittings, which make your van a home from home: two double beds, cooker, fridge, dining table and more.• A unique service with a worry free, effortless camper van experience: All your equipment and accessories are carefully packed and prepared for you.• The Bristol base, just off the M4 and M5 motorways, is ideally situated to explore the beautiful South West. An hour from Devon, South Wales and the Cotswolds.• Your car is secure in the company’s covered unit with 24 hour security.

Ffi: W: www.katyscampers.com E: [email protected] T: 0117 971 4025/07861 475289

Valley adventure

Avon Valley Adventure Park is set in one of the most idyllic areas of the beautiful Avon Valley, bounded by the picturesque river. The park has a huge number of activities for children and adults alike including a large outside adventure playground, huge indoor soft play area and three large slides.

The Riverside experience is a tran-quil riverside walk with interactive storyboard, quizzes, junior assault course, fishing lake and boating lake. You’ll meet lots of friendly animals on the walk including reindeer, rheas, alpacas, donkeys and goats.

There’s a pre-school undercover inflatable area, mini steam train rides and more, plus a playbarn, open daily

There are plenty of undercover eating areas for everyone, plus hand washing and toilet facilities. Everything included in entrance price except motor-ised activities.

Large discounts available for groups and school trips.

Ffi: T: 0117 986 4929 W: www.avon-valleycountrypark.com

Party time at Flingers

Wondering how to make your child’s next birthday extra special? Flingers Party Shop can sup-ply everything you could possibly need for the perfect party. The shop in Patchway has been open for 23 years and its experienced staff are keen to share their

knowledge with you. And you can shop in store or on the new website.

There’s a dazzling selection of prod-ucts for newborns all the way up to teenagers. Fun tableware themes such as “space” and “jungle”, plus acces-sories, make your child’s birthday one to remember.

A broad range of bakeware will entice you into the kitchen to create the perfect birthday cake.

There’s also a fantastic range of chil-dren’s fancy dress to help their imagi-nation run wild. Primary Times readers get 15% off everything on the website. Simply enter the code “primarytimes” at the checkout.

Ffi: Flingers Party Shop, 73-75 Gloucester Road, Patchway, Bristol, BS34 5JQ T: 0117 931 2206 W: www.flingerspartyshop.co.uk

Birthday parties at Old Down

“I cuddled a lamb,” Faith,

aged 2

Hold your child’s birth-day party at one of the best venues in Bristol. Old Down Country

Park has installed a Mongolian Yurt in its orchard, the perfect place for a traditional family party. The venue has fantastic play equipment, woodland walks, views across to Wales, farm animals and beautiful formal grounds surrounding the Manor House.

The party packages include full use of the park, Animal Encounters and private use of the yurt and outdoor fire pit for £7 per child. Lunch boxes are £3 each. There are also Forest School Parties in conjunction with ‘Schools in the Forest’.

Ffi: T: 01454 414081 E: [email protected] . W: www.olddowncountrypark.co.uk

Bluestone luxury

Get away from the stresses and strains of day-to-day life with a luxury short break holiday

at Bluestone National Park Resort in spectacular Pembrokeshire.

Bluestone is a great getaway for the family. Situated in 500 acres of countryside within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, there’s plenty to do all year. Relax and unwind in the lux-ury accommodation before embarking on fun-filled indoor and outdoor activi-ties from the adrenalin pumping Steep Ravine with its high ropes and zip wire, to family battles on the Tournament Field.

And there’s a wide range of chil-dren’s activities, from beast hunting in the woods, pond dipping, getting involved in a Once Upon a Time Wild Wood Wonderland interactive story, to the waves and flumes at the Blue Lagoon.

Grown ups can relax at The Well Spa, with its steam rooms and treat-ments, before enjoying the Carreg Las restaurant, the Tafarn pub or The Yard restaurant.

Ffi: W: www.bluestonewales.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Parents’ & teachers’

news, education & contactsPinboard


Achieving excellence! Catriona Mangham, head teacher of Fairfield High School, writes:

“I have now been Headteacher at Fairfield High School for nearly four years and it was incredible to have the best value added score of any school in Bristol for our last set of results and to have outstanding levels of progress across the core subjects.

“As a school we strongly believe in traditional values underpinning an ethos which ensures every student is supported to succeed. Here you will find a house system, prefects and a sports day running alongside higher ability programmes and intervention subject support.

“Year 7 has the opportunity to learn a number of different languages. We also believe in preparing students to be the citizens of tomorrow and instil in them a clear understanding of their part in local, national and international communities.

“Come and visit and experience the school for yourself!”

Ffi: T: 0117 952 7100 E: [email protected]

13 Avon Pinboard May 2013.indd 3 5/8/2013 1:09:53 PM


Advertis ing Feature


Cool for CatsStagecoach celebrates 25th year with giant musical

This March, 3,000 young perform-ers, including 76 young singers and dancers from Bristol, took part in Britain’s largest ever performance of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical, ‘Cats’.

Stagecoach Theatre Arts cel-ebrated its 25th anniversary in style with an outstanding performance at the NIA, Birmingham.

The main cast consisted of 50 specially selected dancers and 500 singers in a grand choir from 13 Stagecoach schools, plus 2,500 young performers from a further 47 schools throughout the UK, Malta, Germany and Ireland. These students were sup-ported by a virtual choir of international students, visible on large screens. The orchestra was conducted by Paul Leddington Wright.

In the run up to the event a whole host of celebrities including Dani Harmer, Will Young, Kerry Ellis, Gareth Malone and Martin Freeman, sent their well-wishes to Stagecoach for their anniver-sary celebrations.

Performer Charlotte Jaconelli, one half of opera duo Jonathan and Charlotte, who led the production, says, “I always wanted to be part of the performing arts and if it wasn’t for my incredible 11years of training at Stagecoach, I don’t believe I’d be where I am now.”

Veronica Bennetts, director of education for Stagecoach, says, “Jonathan and Charlotte’s opening performance will have inspired many of our stars of the future.”

Stagecoach, founded in 1988, now has almost 600 centres throughout the UK. It offers quality training in drama, dance and singing to young performers from 4-18.

• Ffi W: www.stagecoach.co.uk Tw: www.twitter.com/stage-coach_gbr Fa: www.facebook.com/stagecoachtheatrearts

Let’s start to swimSwimstart has provided a unique and holistic swimming tuition service to its clients now for over 25 years. The National Governing Body for swimming, the ASA, has recently put all its expertise and efforts into promoting a safer swimming experience for children of all ages (see

‘Splash’ article in the last Primary Times). So has Swimstart, whose Swimschools Training and

Consultancy provides dedicated, affordable, professional and personal coaching for all ages and abilities. It specialises in working with children with moderate and severe learning dif-ficulties (MLD and SLD) such as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, Autism and physical dis-ability, providing support and guidance on how to facilitate those needs.

Swimstart believes it is the only school to have access to a specialist osteopathy advice and support service with additional specialist support in aquaphobia both in children and adults.

The school is small and based at two private members health clubs and so is able to enjoy clean, quiet and exclusive facilities with dedicated staff to help make the swimming experience effective and successful. It offers a free initial assessment, advice and guidance session to ensure your child’s needs are understood and met. Give your child the best start with Swimstart.

Application and registration forms can be downloaded from the website.

• Ffi T: Mark on 0777 6292813/01454 228102 W: www.swimstart.com E: [email protected]

13 Avon advertising features May 2013.indd 26 5/8/2013 11:06:24 AM




Jumbo thrills at Noah’s Ark

It’s springtime at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Bristol, the per-fect season to watch nature at its best with baby animals including meerkats and tapirs now enjoying the brighter weather outside.

Noah’s Ark offers incredible up-close experiences with amazing animals, including seeing the lions and tigers being fed during the ‘Big Cat Talk’ and meeting the giraffe family at the daily ‘Giraffe Feed’ where you can help the keepers feed them.

With plenty to do all day, in all weather, why not take the fam-ily to North Somerset’s award-winning 100 acre attraction? Enjoy 12 exciting adventure play areas, an indoor Animal Village and covered Animal Show Pens. Daily events include the popu-lar interactive ‘Animal Show’ with a chance to bottle-feed the lambs, and the regular bumpy tractor rides across the farm with views to Wales.

Get set for a jumbo new experience this summer when the zoo opens ‘Elephant Eden’, a new 20 acre sanctuary for elephants where families can get within a trunk’s length of nature’s biggest land mammal and learn about the importance of conservation.

For a fantastic family day out, go wild at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm this year!

• Ffi W: www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk

My mate, primate Lemur Week 25 – 31May

The Cotswold Wildlife Park is having a week of lemur-based talks and activities to highlight its lemur conservation work, hoping to save species such as the great bamboo lemur and sifaka from extinction. All money raised during the week will go towards these projects.Sifaka Conservation aims to protect crowned sifaka in for-est fragments in Central and Western Madagascar. Very small family groups of this spe-cies have been found in tiny

patches of the remaining forest and they are working towards the management of these groups. As well as funding, the park has provided this project with camping equipment, radios, cap-ture equipment and technical assistance. Techniques learned from this project may well prove extremely useful, not only for the population of crowned sifaka, but for many other species throughout the world that are currently at risk from habitat destruction.Project Bamboo Lemur is a project dedicated to the discovery and protection of new groups of this little known lemur, one of the world’s most endangered primates. The park has been heav-ily involved with the project since its inception and have watched it go from strength to strength in recent years. Many of the observations of these lemurs at the park, have been made avail-able to researchers working in the field and in some cases, have not been seen before.

Ffi: W: www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk/conservation

To reach 66.000 families in your area please contactCaroline Stretton Advertising SalesTel 0117 934 [email protected] Primary Times

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To make our best better

Dean Anderson, the principal of Broadlands Academy, Keynsham, writes:

“As the first principal of the new Broadlands Academy in Keynsham, I took up the post on 1 January 2013. The Academy is sponsored by the Academies Enterprise Trust (AET), a rapidly growing, nationwide, multi-academy sponsor. They are the largest academy chain in the country and working with them is a fantastic opportunity which we will take full advantage of for the benefit of all our stu-dents and our community. This partnership has secured the future of Broadlands and we

are determined the new Academy will be able to grow and flourish, providing an outstanding education for those students who choose to come here.

“Broadlands Academy’s motto is ‘To make our best better’ and all at Broadlands firmly believe that children are entitled to attend a good school, wherever they live. We believe that, with the sup-port of the AET, we will be able to provide all our students with the academic and social opportunities they require and we can call on support and links with a number of different schools and organisa-tions to achieve this.

“Conscious of additional costs for families in the current eco-nomic climate, the academy will provide all students with a blazer and tie free of charge this September. This includes all new Year 7 students and any students who join us in other year groups throughout the year.”

• Ffi Broadlands Academy T: 0117 986 4791 E: [email protected]


Success at St BernadetteSt Bernadette Catholic Secondary School is a vibrant learn-ing commu-nity located in Whitchurch, Bristol.

Its motto is, ‘Growing and learning in faith’ and each of its 750 pupils is valued and makes a posi-tive contribu-tion to this friendly, car-ing school.

The school is committed to ensuring every child achieves their potential and, in 2012, celebrated the best results in its history. At St Bernadette pupils are expected to aim high and to be successful in their learn-ing. Pupils of all abilities do well and the engaging curriculum, mod-ern buildings and extra-curricular activities offer them a variety of opportunities.

Positive relationships underpin life at St Bernadette. There are high expectations of pupils in all areas of school life. In 2011 Ofsted said, “Students are proud of their school. They are polite and friendly, and behave well.”

St Bernadette welcomes applications from all those seeking a quality education for their children within a caring, supportive environment.

• Ffi St Bernadette T: 0117 377 2050 W: www.stberns.bristol.sch.uk





A dental dream come true Ever since they quali-fied together from the University of Birmingham in 1997, Dr Nicola White and Dr Catherine (Kate) Spalding have dreamed of one day opening their own dental practice. Now that dream has become a reality.In June 2013, the two den-tists will open the doors to their new state-of-the-art practice on North View, Westbury Park where they have created a warm and welcoming atmosphere, reflecting their own ethos and values.“We want our patients to feel relaxed and confident coming to the practice. We understand that a visit to the dentist can be worrying for some people, but we are here to help,” says Kate.Having studied medical hypnotherapy, Kate is excellent at making patients feel relaxed and strongly believes that a visit to the dentist should be a positive experience.Nicola has a particular interest in cosmetic dentistry, includ-ing adult orthodontic treatments. The Six Month Smile Orthodentic System uses specialised clear braces that gently straightens and aligns teeth in an average of six months. She also offers a full range of facial aesthetics including wrinkle reducing treatments and dermal fillers.“When people are confident about their smile, it can really make a difference to the way they feel,” says Nicola.Kate and Nicola believe passionately in caring for children’s teeth and so will treat your children free of charge if a parent is registered at Beau Monde. You can look forward to a warm welcome at the new practice on North View, Bristol.

• Ffi T: 0117 330 3495 E: [email protected]: www.beaumondedental.co.uk

Bristol Playday 2013 Playful Places, College Green, Bristol, Wed 7 Aug,

The national Playday 2013 campaign theme is ‘Playful places’. It calls on everyone to help make sure that the places where children live and hang out are great places to play. Bristol Youth Links is supporting Playday by showcasing innovative, safe and high quality serv-

ices for children and young people. Bristol Youth Links wants to: • Celebrate children and young people’s play locally and nationally; • Give children and young people the time and space they need to play because fun and exciting

opportunities to play are part of a happy healthy childhood; • Encourage everyone in the community to contribute to sup-porting children and young people’s right to play because they are good for children and young people, good for families and good for communities; • Let children and young people enjoy playing outside, getting muddy and climbing trees; • Support children and young people’s health, well-being, hap-piness and future development to build vital life and social skills through playing; • Give families from different communities, cultures and parts of the city the chance to meet up;

• Provide everyone with a great day out.

• Ffi W: www.playday.org.uk; www.bristol.org.uk, www.goplacestoplay.org.uk, www.playingout.net Tw: @BristolYouth Fa: BristolYouthLinks

Sat 23rd - Sun 24th March, Wed 27th - March

S

Dr Nicola White (left) and Dr Catherine (Kate) Spalding

Would you like to promote your school or business in the September Back To School edition of Primary Times The features included are:• Choosing A Secondary School• Extra Curricular Activities

To reach 66,000 families in your area please contact:Caroline Stretton Advertising SalesTel 0117 934 [email protected] Primary Times


Despite their cheesy jokes, their insatiable desire to watch ancient westerns and their defiantly smelly

feet, dads are pretty useful to have around, when you think about it. Typically, they’re ever-available chauffeurs for after school and weekend activities, perpetual handymen and fonts of occasional wisdom, deserving recognition for their efforts. This year’s Father’s Day on Sunday 16 June is the perfect opportunity to show them how much they mean to us.

The roots of this paternal cel-ebration originated in the USA at the beginning of the 20th century when, inspired by the establish-ment of the official Mother’s Day in 1908, one Sonora Smart Dodd of Washington state campaigned for similar recognition for fathers. Sonora was the daughter of Civil War veteran William Jackson Smart, who had raised her and her five brothers singlehandedly after his wife died in childbirth. It was first celebrated in 1910 in Sonora’s home town of Spokane and might have gone no further had President Woodrow Wilson not praised her idea in a telegram of 1916. Subsequently Lyndon B. Johnson sealed the idea in the national (and eventually interna-tional) psyche with a presidential proclamation in 1966.

The day itself can be celebrated in a myriad of ways ranging from a cooked breakfast in bed to a full day event that brings the whole family together. Whether he’s the sort of dad who loves getting creative, wants to zoom around a circuit or is happy with a small keepsake, try thinking beyond the mountain of ties, socks and jump-ers that he’ll have accumulated during his career for that perfect gift.

Castle Combe Circuit Let dads shift into top gear and put the pedal to the metal with a range of exciting track days at the historic Castle Combe Circuit. Whether it’s four or two wheels that get the old man’s heart rac-

ing, these fast-paced days will allow dads to unlock their inner speed demon without worrying about those pesky speed cameras.

Fab BricksThis cleverly named company produce intricate key chains using individually personalised Lego bricks. Immortalise your dad’s favourite film character or even create your dad’s very own Lego look-a-like to keep all his jangling keys in one place.

Flying SaucersJoin the fun at this creative paint-ing poetry café with workshops in Bristol and Wiltshire. Take Dad along and choose a plate, bow or even piggy bank to paint, using the shop’s inspiration book for ideas on designs. One nice idea is to decorate a picture frame that will hold a photographic souvenir of the creative day.

Haynes’ ManualsFor an informative present look no further than Haynes’ ‘Dad Manual’ which is full to the brim with handy tips and advice for active dads.

Drawing upon its motoring herit-age, the iconic publishing house also produces a range of illustra-tive manuals covering everything from Formula 1 racing and technol-ogy to cooking up the perfect BBQ.

MiniMotoOperating at their large indoor circuit at Hullavington, MiniMoto racing offers the thrill of motor-cycle racing on miniature scaled down superbikes. Offering open MiniMoto evenings every Friday, bikes can be hired from the cir-cuit’s extensive range for dads wishing to burn some rubber.

Castle Combe Circuit Castle Combe, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN14 7EY. T: 01249 782417. W: www.castlecombecircuit.co.uk/trackdays. Car track day £170. Motorcycle Track Day £125.Fab Bricks T: 01249 464884 W: www.fab-bricks.comFlying Saucers 9 Byron place (off the Triangle), Clifton Bristol, 0117 927 3666 AND 8 Weymouth St., Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 9NR. T: 01985 220110 W: www.flying-saucers.co.uk Haynes ‘Dad Manual’ £14.99 W: www.haynes.co.ukMiniMoto Racing M4 Karting, Hangar 88 Hullavignton Airfield, Chippenham, SN14 6GU. T: 01666 838234 E: [email protected] W: www.minimoto.co.uk. £15 (first 10 minute session)/£10 (additional sessions).

Daddy cool!

It’s time to make a fuss over Dad, says Alex Saunders, as he discovers the origins of Father’s Day and offers a few unusual gift ideas.


Castle Combe

MiniMoto

Flying Saucers



Bristol’s largest and only dedicated paint-your-own-pottery• Suitable for ALL ages!• Over 100 items to choose from • Items professionally glazed and fired • Collect a few days later, and keep a lifetime!

Ideal for:• Father’s / Mother’s Day presents• Wedding presents • Capturing baby’s foot or handprint • Children’s parties • Adult’s parties • Girl’s night out / hen nights• Office parties / socials• Unique gifts

PAINTED POTTERY MAKES PERFECT PRESENTS!

The Painting Pottery Café

9 Byron Place (off the Clifton Triangle) Tel: (0117) 927 3666www.flyingsaucers.co.uk

p31.indd 2 5/3/2013 4:16:16 PM

p32.indd 1 5/7/2013 10:44:43 AM

As the Great British summer approaches, the West Country’s fields and public

spaces look set to bloom, not just with vegetation but with festivals and events. Come rain or shine (if last year is anything to go by), legions of fans will seek out all manner of eclectic entertainment from Big Green Week in Bristol to the traditional delights of Devizes Carnival. Leading the charge into the outdoor events season is Wychwood Festival, Cheltenham, widely seen as perfect for families seeking fun in the sun.

“We’ve geared ourselves to a family audience so that parents can come along with children of any age and know they’re going to have a great time,” comments Wychwood’s co-founder Sam Shrouder. “We’ve got a whole range of activities, with fam-ily areas for camping, not to mention the children’s literary festival and all the workshops that are tailored for our young visitors!”

Festivals are an affordable and exciting way of bringing the whole family together to experience new sights and sounds. Below is a selec-tion of child-friendly events taking place throughout the region, so dust off those forgotten sunglasses and kick-start your summer!

Fri 24-Mon 27 MayCHIPPENHAM FOLK FESTIVALBoasting an action-packed pro-gramme celebrating English tradi-

tional music, song and dance, this festival also has a dedicated chil-dren’s festival based on Island Park.

Fri 24 May-Sat 8 JunSALISBURY INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVALFor 16 days, Salisbury is awash with a vibrant celebration of the arts. Performance theatre, literature and music events take place in every nook and cranny of the city.

Thu 30 May-Sun 2 JunSUNRISE FESTIVALA festival with an ethical twist, Sunrise is built upon a foun-dation of sustainability and responsible action. With a jam-packed musical line up head-lined by the Dub Pistols and The Beat, the eco-friendly fest also offers talks and workshops for all ages.

Fri 31 May-Sun 2 JunWYCHWOOD FESTIVALThe whole family is invited to Cheltenham Racecourse at the end of May for a weekend full of top quality music and com-edy acts including The Human League and Bill Bailey.

Sat 15-Sun 16 JunBIG GREEN WEEK: BRISTOL FESTIVAL OF NATURE 2013Part of Bristol’s celebration of all things sustainable, Big Green Week, Bristol Festival of Nature takes over the city’s Harbourside for “the UK’s larg-

est free natural history event”. Now 10 years old it is still dedi-cated to exploring the natural world in the heart of the city.

Sat 6-Sun 7 JulCOTSWOLD SHOW Celebrating its 25th anniversary, this year’s action-packed family weekend returns with over 50 booked attractions including impressive motorcycle stunt teams and the National Festival Circus.

Fri 12-Sun 14 JulFOODIES FESTIVALThe whole family can enjoy mouth-watering feasts at Bristol Harbourside. Young ones get the chance to rustle up something delicious under the guidance of trained chefs.

Wed 17-Sun 21 JulLARMER TREE FESTIVALTaking place in the idyllic Larmer Tree Gardens near Salisbury, this quirky festival features a stellar line up of musical acts, dedicated children shows, creative work-shops and even a cheeky ale or two for the grown ups!

Thu 25-Sun 28 JulWOMADThis international music festival is bursting to the seams with acts from around the world, endless food stalls and dazzling art displays. WOMAD’s ethos is to use music as a universal lan-guage which creates new friend-ships and strengthen old ones.

Sun 25-Mon 26 AugDEVIZES CARNIVALAfter an explosive 100th anni-versary last year, this well-established carnival begins a new century of festivities with a vibrant event that blends eclectic street theatre with live music. Bristol Festival of Nature T: 0117 317 8751 W: www.bnhc.org.uk Chippenham Folk Festival £97 adult weekend/£48.50 youth T: 01249 657190 W: www.chipp-folk.co.ukCotswold Show £10 (adult)/£4 (child)/£27 (family) T: 01285 652007 W: www.cotswoldshow.co.ukDevizes Carnival W: www.devizescarnival.co.uk Foodies Festival £12/£18 (adult 1 day/3 day)/free (child under 12) T: 0844 995 1111 W: www.foodies-festival.com Larmer Tree Festival £140 (adult 3 day)/£90 (youth 11-17)/£45 (child 5-10) T: 01725 552300 W: www.larmertreefestival.co.ukSalisbury International Arts Festival T: 0845 241 9651 W: www.salisburyfestival.co.ukSunrise Festival £115 (adult)/£225 (family)/£25 (child) T: 08450 090246 W: www.sun-risefestivals.co.ukWOMAD £145 (adult)/free (child under 13) W: www.womad.co.uk Wychwood Festival £120 (adult)/£55 (child 10-15).free (under 10s) T: 01993 772580W: www.wychwoodfestival.com

Music? Food? Sustainability? The West’s outdoor events cater for all tastes, as Alex Saunders discovers.


Justin Fletcher by day and . . . . . . music by night at Wychwood Festival

Big Green Week’s Festival of Nature, Bristol

Sounds of the

summer


34 MAY HALF TERM 2013 PRIMARY TIMES

Last issue, I asked you to send in your pictures of ‘Merlin the Octopus and his friends’. Well done to the three winners who receive an annual family pass to Bristol Aquarium.

ArtyBarty

Hello Kids!Thank you so much for your wonderful pictures of winter fun. The standard was particularly high, so don’t worry if your entry didn’t get published. Try again and hopefully you’ll have better luck next time.

This Easter I have teamed up with our friends at The ss Great Britain, who have very kindly offered a family ticket to three lucky artists who send me their best painting of The ss Great Britain crew putting to sea (see our News story on Page 38 for inspiration).

Please send your pictures to: Arty Barty, Venue Publishing, BN&Media, Temple Way, Bristol BS99 7HD, or email high resolution jpegs to my editor, [email protected]. Don’t forget to put your name, age, full home postal address and school on the back: Deadline Monday 17 June. Have fun!

Arty

Alice Richards, 4, Ashton Keynes Primary School, Swindon,

Wiltshire I love Merlin’s rainbow-coloured

tentacles and sparkling eyelashes

in this impressive

drawing from young Alice.

Hermione Lloyds Bussell, 7, St. Sampson’s Infant School, Cricklade, Wiltshire A lot of effort has clearly gone into this snapshot of underwater life. I like the different lines used to convey ripples in the water.

Anna Lloyd, 8, Elmlea Infant School, BristolSet upon a beautiful blue back-ground, creative cut-outs have been glued on to give the image real depth, in all senses of the word! I also like the female version of Merlin, Merlina!

Imogen Granger, 4,

Preshute Primary School,

Wiltshire

Regular contributor Imogen

has gone to town with the

glitter in this busy scene and

the results really stand out.

I especially like the smiling

jellyfish.

Adam Saunders, 10, Hempsted CofE

Primary School, Hempsted, Gloucester

Captivating colours and intricately drawn

bubbles really bring this aquatic scene to life.

Xanthe, 4, St Barnabas Primary School, Bristol

Striking colours and generous brush strokes draw the eye into this vibrant painting by talented Xanthe.

WINNER!

Gracie Hall, 5, Tredworth

Infant School, Gloucester

Paying homage to Bruce, the

shark in ‘Finding Nemo’, this col-

ourful crayon drawing is framed

by plenty of bobbing jellyfish!

Dylan Peters, 9, Ashley Down Primary

School, BristolAn excellent drawing showing a crafty crab hid-

ing from Merlin the Octopus. Lots of thought has

gone into the rich colours and the location of the

sneaky crab.

WINNER!

WINNER!

WINNER!

Amy Passarelli,

9, Mead Vale

Primary School,

Weston-super-Mare

This advanced drawing is

full of colour

and intricate

details such as

Merlin’s twisting

tentacles! Goofy

wheezing fish

provide bubbles

of precocious humour.

13 Avon Books & Arty Barty May 2013.indd 34 5/8/2013 11:18:01 AM

MAY HALF TERM 2013 35PRIMARY TIMES

Barking up the right treeDevised and written by Christine Pritchard, this light-hearted interactive children’s book and application follows the mischievous exploits of Ben, part Labrador, part collie dog and his friend Special Rat in their second outing together. With beautifully rendered animations by Peter Froome and a playful story line that unpacks a box full of surprises, it’s sure to be a hit with children aged 3-7.

This iOS based e-publication (an android version is available later in the year) contains 70 seconds of video footage from the printed book, first released in 2012, and plays out through a series of stimulating chapters. Interactive sections are marked with a paw symbol, which are not always obvious to spot, therefore requiring young readers to be attentive and observant to fully appreciate the engaging story. An original music score accompanies the adventure offering an absorbing activity for the 21st century child.

The Adventures of Ben Labra d’Ollie - Ben and the Box of Surprises by Christine Pritchard, Wild Country Lane Studios, £2.99, www. ben-labradollie.com

Licensed to Quill

This visually stimulating, pocket-sized book from Wendy Meddour is the perfect step-ping stone for young readers wishing to bridge the gap between picture books and children’s novels. Progressing through three acts that plot the amusing high jinks of the endearing protagonist, Wendy Quill, playful language and engaging storylines will go down a treat with girls aged 7+. The pages are bursting at the seams with eye-catching fonts and quirky illustrations by the author’s extremely talented daughter Mina May (who is only 11!), while a genu-ine sense of humour links the silly tales together. Although aimed at younger

readers, there’s plenty of observational jokes in this book that parents will relate to. Fans of Liz Pichon’s Tom Gates character, portrayed in a similar style, will love this, the first in a new series that will keep inquisitive minds coming back for more.

Wendy Quill is a Crocodile’s Bottom by Wendy Meddour, Oxford University Press, £5.99, www.oup.com

Dakkar rally

From the same imaginative mind that brought us 2011’s Waterstones Children’s Book Prize winner ‘Mortlock’, Monster Odyssey follows young Prince Dakkar, heir to an Indian Kingdom, as he ventures into a fantastical world populated by sinister spies and gargantuan underwater monsters. Elegantly written chapters burst with lucid imagery while the humorous dialogue between the young prince and the enigmatic Count Oginski serves as a light-hearted reprieve from the enticingly dark and macabre plot. Perfect for children aged 9+, this visually striking book can be read as a bedtime story or independently by adventure-hungry youngsters. Monster Odyssey: The Eye of Neptune by Jon Mayhew, Bloomsbury, £6.99, www.bloomsbury.com

Alex Saunders reviews the new releases.

Library adventures

Effortlessly fusing magic and adventure with time-travelling thrills, The Palace Library will be eagerly pounced upon by children who loved Harry Potter or the Chronicles of Narnia. Three children unexpectedly discover a remarkable library and armed with the magical books it contains, they embark on a fast-paced adventure back in time. Their immersive quest brings them into contact with a fantasy world populated with dragons, a mythical sword and an ancient prophecy that can only be fulfilled by the power of reading. A strong opening chapter in a series of books for the 8-12 age range, the story promotes values of friendship and the impor-tance of working together. The central characters (Grace, Eleanor and Harry) are likable resulting in readers genuinely caring about their well-being as they journey though the mythical Tolkien-inspired realm that Loveridge has so elegantly crafted.

The Palace Library by Steven Loveridge, self-published, £6.99, www.stevenloveridge.com

Nature and nurture

Covering a wide range of animals and environmental topics in their content, this educational and visually-led series from National Geographic allows children to improve their reading abilities through a staged process. Starting at Level 1, books on frogs, dinosaurs and caterpillars (to name but a few), set young children on the path to reading, with each subsequent level offering longer sentences and more challenging vocabulary until they are ready to read independ-ently. Illustrated with stunning photographs and jam-packed with fun facts and figures, young children can collect the whole series and learn a great deal in the process!

National Geographic Kids by various, National Geographic, £7.99 each, www.kids.nationalgeographic.com

Amy Passarelli,

9, Mead Vale

Primary School,

Weston-super-Mare

This advanced drawing is

full of colour

and intricate

details such as

Merlin’s twisting

tentacles! Goofy

wheezing fish

provide bubbles

of precocious humour.

& apps

13 Avon Books & Arty Barty May 2013.indd 35 5/8/2013 11:19:29 AM

Classifieds

COMEDY MAGICto enhance your event!Magic workshops for older children

Call for free information pack 01934 418 184www.richard-ballinger.co.ukInsured and CRB checked

Opticians

Gifts

Nursery

Dance

Mobile paint yourown ceramics workshop

H Childrens birthday partiesH Babies hands + feet impressions

H Mother + Toddler groups, BrowniesH School fundraising events

Tel: 07412 238 324


Music, Lights, Magic, Games,bubbles but most of all....FUN!!

TEL: 01275 880 427 MOB: 0779 695 8164EMAIL: [email protected]

WEB:www.thediscocosouthwest.co.uk Follow us on facebook

www.bryanthemagician.co.uk

2 hours of fun fi lled games and dancing, sweets, prizes and much more

www.childrens-disco-parties.co.uk Tel: 01275 474 976

Mobile: 07890 744 295Email: [email protected]

Baby massage Horse Riding

£5 discount with this advert

Help for babies withsleeping, colic andteething problemsMeet other parents

Blissful Bambinos Baby MassageKaren Dawson 07968 52627101275 [email protected]

Party Ideas

Party Ideas

Parties In Naturewww.partiesinnature.co.uk

Parties with Brickswww.partieswithbricks.co.uk

call Alexandra: 07982 198195

Gymnastics

Dyslexia?Reading difficulties?

Visual Stress?

‘Stop the words moving’We provide colour overlays and

coloured glasses

191 Redland RoadBristol BS6 6XP

Call us on 0117 9735600

Family friendly and here to help

HANHAM & DOWNENDTAEKWON-DOModern martial arts in a fun and friendly environment• Little Puma’s 4-6 yrs • Juniors 6-12 yrs• Cadets 12-16 yrs • Adults 16+For information or to bookTWO FREE trial classescontact instructor Ms Tiina Elise07729 358691 or [email protected](please quote Primary Times)

Honey Tots Day Nursery21 - 23 Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3PY

• Warm caring atmosphere• A clean safe environment• Right in the heart of the city• Ages 3 months - 5 years

• Opening hours: 8am - 6pm• Meals catered• 3 - 5 year old funded places available

Limited places!! Please contact Farah Khan - Nursery Manager

[email protected] 0117 924 3100

Martial Arts

Wapley Riding StablesRiding Lessons for all ages and abilities

• Patient and friendly tuition• Good selection of horses and ponies available• All aspects of riding, horse care and stable

management• BHSAI Qualified and Experienced Instructors• Floodlit outdoor riding arenas• Gift vouchers available

[email protected]

Wapley Hill, Westerleigh, Bristol. BS37 8RJ

01454 321583 or 07860530199

Tel: 0117 908 1291www.ezzomagic.co.uk

Bristol Camper Van Hire with 4/5 berth VW campers for holidays, festivals and weddings. All vans have

three point seat belts for any child seat and we provide a luxury family friendly service with fresh bedding and towels, cooking and eating equipment, tea and coffee,

tables and chairs and much more. See photos and more details at

www.katyscampers.com Tel: 0117 9714025 [email protected]

Holidays

www.vstage.co.uk

07896 664 330

VStage is for Singing, Dancing and Acting

lessons and takes place at Mangotsfield Secondary

School (BS16 9LH).

Vickys Dance & Fitness (www.vickysdance.com)

also offer a range of dance classes for boys and

girls as well as Pilates for adults.

Kingswood Foundation BS15 8DB

ENROLLING NOW FOR GYMNASTICS AND

TRAMPOLINE COURSESFOR PRE-SCHOOL/JUNIORS AND

TEENAGERS

1-1 REBOUND THERAPY SESSIONSBIRTHDAY PARTIES AND FUN SESSIONS

HOLIDAY FUN SESSIONS Tuesday and Friday 10.00 am – 3.00pm

Phone 0117 947 6449e-mail: [email protected]

Visit our new website atwww.kingswoodgymnastics.co.uk

Book now for FREE bouncy castle hireLimited period only

Classifieds A-Whitsun13.indd 1 5/7/2013 1:03:24 PM

Rugby

Separated into 3 age groups, Rugbytots® combines the multiple skills used in rugby with a fun, energetic and structured play programme.

Expanding rapidly, we currently have weekday & after school classes throughout Bristol, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset.

New Class for 5 to 7 yr olds in Downend, Saturdays: 10.35am Rugbytots birthday parties from £7 per head.

All Rugbytots lead coaches are RFU qualif ied, f irst aid trained and CRB checked.

For further information please call0845 313 [email protected]

The UK’s f irst rugbyspecif ic playprogramme foryoung children.

Rugbytots ® is aweekly play programmefor boys and girls aged 2 to 7.

TO ADVERTISE CALLCAROLINE ON: 0117 934 3737 OR EMAIL: [email protected]

OR RUTH ON: 0117 934 3737 OR EMAIL: [email protected]

WWW.WAVESSWIMSCHOOL.CO.UKSWIMMING LESSONS FOR ALL AGES

WITH QUALIFIED SWIMMING TEACHERS

PRE-SCHOOL CLASSES FROM 2.5 YEARS2 CHILDREN TO 1 TEACHER

Saturdays at St. Mary Redcliffe School

GROUP LESSONS STARTING AGE CONFIDENT 3.5 YEARS +(20/30 minute lessons) St. Mary Redcliffe School

Every week day 4-6pm & Sat 9am onwards Clifton High School, Sunday 9-11am

MINI SQUAD 1 HOUR SESSIONS– THURSDAYS & SUNDAYS

SMALL CLASSES A PRIORITYALWAYS WORKING TOWARD STROKE TECHNIQUE

FOR FURTHER INFO & ENQUIRIES, PLEASE CONTACTJENNY 01275 877428 OR JACKIE 01275 790457

CAROLINE 01275 856185ALL DETAILS ON WEB SITE

Swimming

Tuition


Tuition on violin and recorder offered for all agesBeginners (of any age) and more advanced players are welcome.I will visit if this is more convenient.

•••

TuitionParty Ideas Tuition

To reach 66,000

families in your area advertise in the next issue of Primary Times.

Call Caroline 0117 934 3737 or email [email protected]

Or Ruth 0117 934 3737 or email [email protected]

Crime scene investigation parties andworkshops for children age 7+

tel 0117 244 0053web www.thedetectiveproject.co.uk

DISCOVERY LEARNING

TUTORINGLEARNING SUCCESS FOR ALL

• Literacy & Maths 5-11 yr olds

• Preparation for SATs & Common Entrance

• Help with DyslexiaTel: JENNY MADDERN 07905 802267

[email protected]

Swimming

Learn the Harmonicaat school - it’s fun,

cheap, cool and easy.Press the red button atwww.HarpsCool.co.uk

Harmonica themed Birthday Parties ‘Wow, that’s different!’

07599 561514 [email protected]

2013 Summer Swim school10 half hour lessons mornings 9am – 1pm29th July – 9th August (week days only)Children 5yrs & over in small classes.

Non swimmer, improver & A.S.A. awards. Bookings by telephone 0117 9737245 (9am-6pm)

www.cliftonswimschool.com

Making swimming lessons fun for all abilities

Clifton:Friday Evening: Non-swimmers to Improvers

Saturday Daytime: Non-swimmers to ImproversSaturday Evening: Lane Classes, Adult Learn to

Swim, Adult Improvers, Swim for FitnessMonday Evening: Non-Swimmer to Improvers

Westbury-on-Trym:Tuesday Evening: Advanced Lane ClassesWednesday: Non swimmer to Improvers

Sunday All Day: All abilities

Register online: www.splash-happy.co.ukEmail: [email protected]

Tel: 0117 979 8266

Classifieds A-Whitsun13.indd 2 5/7/2013 1:13:51 PM

Would you and your family like to take part in a celebration of nature, trees and

woodcraft this summer, abso-lutely free? If so, the Forestry Commission’s National Arboretum at Westonbirt, Gloucestershire, is offering a pair of free adult tick-ets to its wonderful Treefest this August (kids go free anyway).

The three day event from Sat 24-Mon 26 August prom-ises over 100 exhibi-tors, a food hall packed with deli-cious pro-duce

and the chance to try out traditional woodworking meth-ods in the expanded Working

Woodlands area.Sculptors will create pieces

inspired by fairytales in demon-strations of ‘big carving’, while families can follow a trail around the festival packed with story-tellers, puppet theatre, falconry and a new attraction, The Welsh Axemen. Plus there’s live music by local bands every evening.

To enter, visit the competition entry website and answer the simple question you find there. Entry is via the Primary Times website only and terms and condi-tions are posted online.

COMPETITION ENTRY WEBSITE

www.primarytimes.net/competitions_avon.php

Ffi: Treefest Sat 24-Mon 26 August, National Arboretum, Westonbirt, Gloucestershire. Tickets £10 (adult)/£8 (concs)/ £24 (weekend). Advance tickets save up to 20 per cent on gate prices and are available from the Forestry Commission box office. T: 03000 680400 or W: www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt-treefest

WIN TICKETS TO TREEFEST, WESTONBIRT

The ss Great Britain has launched a scheme to attract 8,000 school chil-dren to the iconic Bristol

attraction over the next three years. ‘Museums and Schools’, a project supported by the Arts Council of England, is part of a national initiative trying to increase school pupils’ engage-ment with culture. Partnering with the Science Museum in London, the ss Great Britain will welcome schools as part of the project from this May.

The attraction’s education team will work with local schools to engage children in their final year of primary school and their first year of secondary school through group workshops and self- led activities at the famous vessel. Pupils involved in the project will have the chance

to learn about the history of the ship’s designer, Isambard Kingdom Brunel and his engi-neering talents, as well as the story of the ship and what life was like on board for passengers and crew.

Rhian Tritton, director of education and conservation, ss Great Britain Trust says, “This is a unique and exciting partnership, which aims to help pupils avoid a dip in their performance at school by supporting them during the difficult period of moving from primary to secondary education.”

Ultimately, she hopes, the time the pupils spend visiting Brunel’s ss Great Britain will spark their curiosity and help encourage in them a lifelong passion for cul-ture and learning.

Ffi: W: www.ssgreatbritain.org

Everybody’s favourite bear is putting his

charity hat on this May and June to raise support for Action Medical Research, which funds vital medi-cal research into conditions affect-ing babies and children.

Primary schools throughout the country will take part in the annual ‘Bring your Bear’ event and this year it couldn’t be easier for schools to get their pupils involved. Just choose a day in May or June when children can bring their teddy or a favourite soft toy with them to school. Each child brings in a £2 donation with their bear to sup-port vital research. Many ‘Bring your Bear’ participants organise a whole day of fun activities, such as reading Paddington stories, hold-ing a teddy bears’ picnic or baking bear-shaped biscuits. Children can also take part in a drawing compe-tition with a chance to win a visit from Paddington himself.

Every school that registers will receive a free fundraising pack, including a poster and Paddington

stickers, and access to an online toolkit full of useful materials. Jemma Jones, event organiser at Action Medical Research, says: “‘Bring your Bear’ is all about putting the fun into fundraising and is the perfect event to get chil-dren excited about helping others. Every year we get fantastic feed-back about what the children have got up to. Please join in and help us – and, of course, Paddington – make 2013 a ‘bear-illiant’ year.” Ffi: W: www.action.org.uk/bringy-ourbear

A ‘BEAR-ILLIANT’ IDEA


ANCHORS AWEIGH ON NEW PARTNERSHIP

COMPETITION

Providing more structured activities for autistic children at break time could help protect them

from bullying at school, says the Anti-Bullying Alliance (ABA). A national survey by the charity shows that 42.4% of autistic chil-dren tell their parents they are often bullied in school, while 97% of parents and carers feel that their autistic children are at risk of bullying. The survey results form part of a national campaign launched in April by the ABA, working with the National Children’s Bureau and Tesco Mum of the Year 2013, Anna Kennedy. The campaign calls on all schools and colleges to be particularly aware of the bullying that children with autism experience at break times and to provide positive activities that

keep them safe. This action will be welcomed by respondents of the survey, says ABA, with over half the parents stating that ‘structured activities’ are seri-ously lacking at break times in schools.

Lauren Seager-Smith, national coordinator of ABA says, “For children and young people with autism, break and lunch times in schools and colleges can be particularly daunting and can put them at risk of bullying. Too often these children are seen as the problem; as not ‘fitting in’ or ‘settling down’. We want to see all schools take decisive action to create environments and cultures where all children feel safe and supported without fear of bully-ing.’’

W: www.anti-bullyingalliance.org

GIVE CHILDREN WITH AUTISM A

BETTER BREAK, SAYS CHARITY

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Broadlands Academy, Keynsham opened in December 2012 and the new Principal, Dean Anderson, is working to bring about outstanding learning. As part of the Academies Enterprise Trust we are working to secure a bright and exciting future for our learners.

If you would like to find out more, whether your child is in Year 6 or in Years 7 – 11, and wishes to join us, please contact the Academy.

0117 9864791 [email protected]

Tel:Email:

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Primary Times Avon Whitsun 2013

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