Primary Times North & East Yorkshire Feb 17

What’s On Where for families and schools 

www.primarytimes.net 

North Yorkshire 

& East Yorkshire 

Parenting • Education • Days Out • News & Reviews 

FEBRUARY ISSUE №73 

6 Feb – 27 March 2017

Dear Reader 

Welcome to our February half term issue. 

We hope that you all enjoyed the festive break and that you 

have managed not to get the awful cold virus that seems to 

have swept across our country. Daylight hours are already 

stretching out and provide encouraging thoughts that outdoor 

play after school is not far away now. 

On offer are a whole host of events and activities that will be 

happening across North Yorkshire during half term and 

beyond – indoor and outdoor activities that will help to keep 

children entertained, from a space treasure hunt to a puppet 

making workshop! There is something to suit all talents and 

abilities, and there are lots more events online at 

www.primarytimes.net/nyorks. 

In this issue – It’s Party Time! – check out our special feature 

offering lots of ideas for the perfect party to suit your budget, 

discover wild places with the John Muir Award, enter our 

fabulous competitions, cook up a treat for Pancake Day 

and lots more. 

Don’t forget to send us your news – are you holding any special 

events at Easter that you would like us to include in our listings – 

email us on marion@schoolspublishing.co.uk. 

With very best wishes 

Marion, Helen, Niki & Charlotte 

Contents 

Inside this issue... 

Calling all 

families 

and teachers! 

Remember to send in 

your news for our news 

pages – we would love 

to hear from you! 

Don’t forget 

to visit us 

online at 

www.primarytimes.net 

/nyorks 

4 News 

5 WOW 

10 Schools and Tuition 

14 It’s Party Time 

19 Box Office 

21 Bookstore 

22 Competitions 

contents 

The Primary Times Team 

Editor: 

Marion McAdam 

marion@schoolspublishing.co.uk 

Sales: 

Helen Pattinson 

ptny@schoolspublishing.co.uk 

Production: 

Niki Ince-Green 

media@schoolspublishing.co.uk 

Design: 

Charlotte Morgan 

Primary Times in North Yorkshire, 

Schools Publishing Limited 

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TEL: 01491 411848 

FAX: 01491 411416 

www.primarytimes.net/nyorks 

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magazine for parents! 

Primary Times in North 

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Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through national primary schools in North Yorkshire. It 

aims to inform families and children about current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses, attractions and to 

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in the competitions. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically based material whatsoever. We also 

undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best 

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www.primarytimes.net/nyorks | FEBRUARY Issue Primary Times 3

news & views 

News & Views 

Do you have news that might interest other parents or teachers? We’d love to hear about it! 

Email marion@schoolspublishing.co.uk 

The Deep 

See our new look Lagoon of Light in its final 

stages of construction from Saturday 11 

February. Learn more about how this exhibit 

has been created (before we add the water!) 

and hear fascinating facts about the fish who 

will soon be joining us. 

This display will soon be home to hundreds 

of brightly coloured fish including our very own 

juvenile zebra sharks who were born and bred 

right here at The Deep. 

Representing where the rainforests meet 

the reef, the lagoon will reflect the diversity of 

aquatic life and unique habitats found in and 

around many of the islands and archipelagos 

in the western Pacific oceans, from Tropical 

North Queensland to the outer islands of Palau 

in Micronesia. 

It will boast amazing new corals and large 

mangrove trees, which are both very important 

Hull2017 

Hull UK City of Culture 2017’s opening 

season offers plenty of family fun, 

including free exhibitions and installations 

such as Bowhead, an audio-visual 

installation at Hull Maritime Museum, and 

Blade, the first in a series of temporary 

public artworks under the banner of Look 

Up. 

The first Back To Ours, a family festival 

which takes place each half term, includes: 

The Story of Mr B, a puppet show set in a 

giant pop-up book; and a Roald Dahl film 

festival. 

Other highlights include: Telling Tales: 

Musical Stories with Narration at the 

University of Hull’s Middleton Hall and 

Northern Ballet’s production of Goldilocks 

and the Three Bears at Bridlington Spa. 

www.hull2017.co.uk 

to the health of a coral reef and its surrounding 

coastline. They provide an essential nursery 

ground for a number of species amongst their 

submerged root system. 

It will also feature a wave machine that 

replicates the tidal movements of a true coastal 

habitat so our animals feel right at home. 

So if you’re look for a fun day out this half 

term, The Deep is definitely the ‘plaice’ to be!” 

ROLLERCOASTIVAL 

FEBRUARY 18th & 19th, 2017 

As part of Rollercoastival’s weekend, 

children can learn circus skills, play a 

surrealist drawing game and enjoy the 

stories of Roald Dahl. Community musician 

Sam Dunkley will help youngsters to write 

and perform a brand new song, while 

SCAMPS – the Scarborough Accessible 

Music Project – is a singing and signing 

taster. There are drop-in art sessions, 

storytellers and the Pied Piper, who wants 

children to join his musical trail. Plus, 

don’t miss a chance to see Scarborough 

painstakingly recreated in Minecraft. Most 

events are free and some require booking. 

See www.coastival.com for more details. 

JORVIK VIKING 

FESTIVAL 2017 

20 – 26 February 2017 

The story of Eric Bloodaxe’s last days in York will 

be woven into this year’s JORVIK Viking Festival, 

which takes place in York from 20 – 26 February 

2016 – with new venues for even larger events 

including his ultimate feast and a dramatic retelling 

of the Battle of Stainmore, which can have only one 

conclusion for the infamous Viking king. 

The epic finale of the Festival (Saturday 25 

February) will tell the story of the Battle of 

Stainmore – where Eric Bloodaxe unsuccessfully 

made his last stand – and will be hosted for the 

first time at Rawcliffe Country Park, where a natural 

arena will enable larger crowds to enjoy the furious 

fiery finale, which will combine living history 

displays with hundreds of warriors taking to the field 

of combat to determine the fate of the Kingdom 

of JORVIK. Tickets cost £13.50 for adults and £10.50 

for concessions, with family tickets (two adults and 

two children) for £40.50 or £52.50 for two adults and 

three children. 

Alongside the paid-for events, there will be a 

host of free activities for visitors to enjoy, including 

the annual Strongest Viking Competition, which 

returns home to the Coppergate Centre, the March 

to Coppergate from Dean’s Park, and the Best Beard 

Competition. 

Other highlight activities in this year’s festival 

include: 

• Have-a-go archery and sword combat in St 

Sampson’s Square (Monday to Thursday from 

10.00am to 4.00pm) 

• Norse Nalebinding workshops, led by one of the 

world’s top Viking knitting experts, Mari Wickerts 

of Gothenburg Museum. Courses for beginners 

and experts throughout the week. 

• Lectures and workshops with author Justin Hill, 

including a historical writing masterclass (23 

February from 10.00am to 1.00pm 

• 1066! The End of History, a new presentation by 

Peter Carrington-Porter following his sell-out 

performances of Beowulf. 

A full calendar of events in this year’s festival is 

available online at www.jorvikvikingfestival.co.uk 

where tickets for key events can also be booked. 

More details can also be found on social media by 

using #JVF17. 

4 

Primary Times FEBRUARY Issue | www.primarytimes.net/nyorks

WOW! 

What’s on where... 

We check listings carefully but event 

details and prices may be subject to change. 

Please always check with the venue. 

1 Feb – 22 March 

Storymakers 

Mud Pie Arts’ Storymakers is now in its seventh 

glorious year! Bring your pre-schoolers to our 

unique picture book play session. First we get 

sticky at the craft table. Then we promenade to 

the storytelling room for role play and makebelieve.A 

new book is revealed each week. The 

craft is taken home, so the story can be told again 

and again. Let’s pretend! York Theatre Royal Cafe 

YO1 7HD www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk 

4 Feb – 3 May 

Snowdrop Spectacular 

Outdoor Events. The snowdrop walk makes a truly 

memorable day out at the end of a long winter. 

The beautiful little flowers are such a welcome 

sight, and grow in numbers each year. This 

biblical symbol of hope reminds us that winter 

eventually gives way to spring, and announces 

the new season. Burton Agnes Hall YO25 4NB. 

www.burtonagnes.com 

11 Feb 

Shark Egg Case Hunt 

We are excited to announce the return of The 

Sharks Trust Great Egg Case Hunt! This year we 

have teamed up with the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust 

at Flamborough South Landing to deliver a funfilled 

family day out. The Deep HU9 1TU 

www.thedeep.co.uk 


Valentine’s Day Card Making 

and Biscuit Decorating 

Join the servants and make a traditional 

decoupage Valentine card or decorate a biscuit 

for the one you love. Sewerby Hall and Gardens 

YO15 1EA www.sewerbyhall.co.uk 

16-21 Feb 

Fab Feb Family Fun 

Don’t let rainy days be boring this half-term - 

enjoy a fun family day out at Lightwater Valley! 

Lightwater Valley Theme Park HG4 3HT 

www.lightwatervalley.co.uk 


Moon Explorer Weekend 

A drop in crafting session for children, including 

rocket builders, planet pompoms, constellation 

rocks, plus planetarium sessions. YHA Boggle 

Hole YO22 4UQ www.yha.org.uk 

Space Treasure Hunt 

Join us on a space themed treasure hunt as we 

begin our dark skies festival. Use your starry map 

to locate the clues to claim your ‘out of this world’ 

treasure! Minimum age 4. North York Moors 

National Park YO21 2NB 

www.northyorkmoors.org.uk 

Get geocaching 

Get outside and have a go at geocaching through 

the woodland. You never know what you might 

find. Rievaulx Terrace YO62 5LJ 

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/rievaulx-terrace 

Rocket Making Workshop 

Come and decorate your own rocket and we 

will launch it for you. Whose rocket can fly the 

furthest? What will make it fly further? You 

will need a plastic bottle, 1litre ones work well, 

bring your own or buy one on the day for £1. 

Grassington Primary School BD23 5LB 

www.yorkshiredales.org.uk 

Stargazing Evening 

To mark Dark Skies Week explore the wonders of 

the night sky, including star clusters, nebulae and 

galaxies, under the expert guidance of members 

of the York Astronomical Society. If the skies are 

not visible because of bad weather, join us in the 

Visitor Centre for an entertaining illustrated talk 

about what is up there above the clouds! The 

Yorkshire Arboretum. 

www.yorkshirearboretum.org 

NOISE! (WHITBY) 9-12YRS 

Try something new! FREE workshops for ages 9 - 

12. Songwriting with Tom Townsend. Eskmouth 

Scout Hall, Whitby YO21 1EB www.sjt.uk.com 


Coastival 2017 

Look beyond the obvious at a two-day festival 

with a twist. Dance with the Pied Piper, come 

join the Suitcase Circus, get down to some groovy 

tracks on Platform 3 and see Scarborough as 

you’ve never seen it before - with loads of free 

events and lots of surprises. Scarborough Spa 

YO11 2HD www.scarboroughspa.co.uk/events/ 

Coastival-2017 

Rollercoastival 

Children and young people will have the 

opportunity to try new arts activities led by 

professional artists and see the arts and their own 

environments in a wider way. Using interesting 

and accessible materials, including their own 

creativity, imagination and talents to create art. 

The Spa YO11 2HD www.coastival.com 

what’s on where 



Minecraft Scarborough 

Come and join the fun at this exciting crafting 

table workshop, where you can make Minecraft 

Steve & creeper heads. Craft your own tools or 

draw your favourite characters. Or even invent 

some new creatures or mods of your own. The Spa 

YO11 2HD www.coastival.com 

What’s in the Box 

What’s in your box? Only you will know, because 

it’ll be your happy memory made into a picture 

that becomes the actual box itself! Your drawing of 

a special happy memory, something you are ‘very 

glad that happened’, or was it a dream? – your 

drawing illustration, with added collage if you like, 

magically becomes the ‘Treasure’ in your Treasure 

Chest – a personal treasure to remember and for 

others only to guess about… The Spa YO11 2HD 

www.coastival.com 

Suitcase Circus 

Roll Up! Roll Up! The Suitcase Circus is coming to 

Coventry University! As part of Rollercoastival, come 

join the circus at our amazing workshops. Learn 

circus skills with award winning circus performer 

Pete White. You will be amazed at what you can 

do! Watch an entertaining demonstration from 

Pete, then have a go at these amazing circus skills – 

juggling, plate spinning, diabolo, flower stick, poi, 

hula hooping, Chinese ribbons and fabulous feather 

balancing. There is something for everyone – from 

complete beginners to those who have done it 

before. The Spa YO11 2HD www.coastival.com 


Mad Science Week 

An educational and fun week of science is coming 

to Stockeld Park in February Half Term 2017 The 

Stockeld Park Atrium will have a visit from Sublime 

Science. Stockeld Park LS22 4AN 

www.stockeldpark.co.uk 


Half Term Fun at Whitby Abbey 

Join us at the abbey this half term for family fun. 

Whitby Abbey YO22 4JT 

www.english-heritage.org.uk/whitbyabbey 

Why Stars Matter Trail 

Did you know that stars affect you and the forest 

every day? Follow our ‘Why Stars Matter’ trail 

to find out how. The trail starts at Dalby Forest 

Visitor Centre, and along the 0.5 mile route you 

will find out why stars matter and take part in fun 

activities along the way Dalby Forest YO18 7LT 


February Family Fun 

From steam rides to storytelling, we’ve got lots of 

hands-on fun for the whole family this February 

half term. Join in with Flying Scotsman model 

making, take a ride on the Miniature Railway 

and find out all about speedy locomotives in our 

exciting Need for Speed science show. National 

Railway Museum YO26 4XJ nrm.org.uk/febfun 

Weather Hunters’ Trail 

Become a weather hunter with our daily weather 

trail through the garden. Find out about different 

types of weather – from sun and snow to 

hurricanes and hailstorms – and learn about the 

different weather systems that affect the planet. 

Don’t forget to collect your Garden Detective 

sticker on your way home. Harlow Carr HG3 1QB 

www.rhs.org.uk 

Brilliant books 

Whether they make you laugh out loud or hide 

beneath the covers, the excitement of a good 

book is hard to beat. Enjoy our book inspired 

exhibition from the Chris Beetles Gallery, add 

your own rhyme to the poetry corner and at 

the weekend come along to a book swap. Let’s 

celebrate everything wonderful from hearing or 

telling the best tales! Nunnington Hall YO62 5UY 

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/nunnington-hall 

February half-term 

There will be two trails themed around finding 

your way with a map and compass - one for 

younger visitors and a more challenging option 

for older children. Eden from Stories Alive will 

be here on Friday 24 & Saturday 25 February for 

free story sessions throughout the day - not to be 

missed. Beningbrough Hall YO30 1DD 

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/beningbroughhall-gallery-and-gardens 

Pots of fun! 

Check out the Swanley Grange medieval style 

garden for inspiration before heading into the 

workshop to decorate your own pot to take home 

ready for some spring gardening. Fountains 

Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden HG4 3DY 

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbeyand-studley-royal-water-garden 

Animals Under the Stars 

A trail through the Dales Countryside Museum 

looking for nocturnal and diurnal animals and 

learning about how they have adapted to survive 

and hunt in the dark. Dales Countryside Museum 

DL8 3NT www.yorkshiredales.org.uk 

February Family Fun 

From steam rides to storytelling, we’ve got lots of 

hands-on fun for the whole family this February 

half term. Join in with Flying Scotsman model 

making, take a ride on the Miniature Railway 

and find out all about speedy locomotives in 

our exciting Need for Speed science show. Plus 

see our huge turntable in action and uncover 

the secrets of how a steam locomotive works 

National Railway Museum YO26 4XJ 

nrm.org.uk/febfun 

February Half Term at NYMR 

Enjoy a fun-packed, full day out along the North 

Yorkshire Moors Railway this half term where 

you can see Hogsmeade Station at Goathland, 

spectacular family walks at Levisham and the 

railway’s engine sheds at Grosmont. Pickering 

Railway Station YO18 7AJ www.nymr.com 


Robin Hood’s Bay Ghost Walk 

Journey through the narrow streets and 

alleyways of Bay as you listen to tales of the 

strange and supernatural mingling with ancient 

legends, smugglers, shipwrecks, spiritual 

mysteries and rip roaring ghost stories. National 

Trust’s Old Coastguard Station YO22 4SJ 

www.whitbystoryteller.co.uk 

Seashore Scavenger Hunt 

Join us we go in search of treasures washed up by 

winter storms. There’s a big focus on exploring 

these environments safely and thinking about 

how we can protect them for the future. Dress 

appropriately and no nets or buckets please. 

Living Seas Centre YO15 1AE www.ywt.org.uk 


Dramarama Daze (4-7 YRS) 

Holiday themed drama workshops for children 

aged 4-7. A great way to get creative, have fun 

and meet new friends and get involved in a 

pocket sized production. Each day ends with 

a performance for family and friends (2.45pm) 

STEPHEN JOSEPH THEATRE YO11 1JW 

www.sjt.uk.com 

Dramarama Daze (8-12 YRS) 

Holiday themed drama workshops for children 

aged 8-12. A great way to get creative, have 

fun and meet new friends and get involved in 

6 


a pocket sized production. Each day ends with 

a performance for family and friends (2.45pm) 

STEPHEN JOSEPH THEATRE YO11 1JW 



Have-a-go Sword Combat 

A chance for younger Vikings to get a taste for 

the art of sword fighting! St Sampson Square YO1 

8RN www.jorvik-viking-festival.co.uk 


Viking Animal Steading 

Discover the animals the Vikings reared up-close 

in the DIG garden. With special child-friendly 

talks on offer throughout the day exploring how 

important the rearing of animals was to the 

Vikings, as it wasn’t just the meat and milk that 

was of use but even the bones and antlers St 

Saviourgate YO1 8NN 

www.jorvik-viking-festival.co.uk 


Family Archery 

Why not come along and try your hand at archery, 

a traditional Sewerby Hall and Gardens pastime. 

There is no need to book so just turn up and have 

a go! Minimum age eight years old. Sewerby Hall 

and Gardens YO15 1EA www.sewerbyhall.co.uk 

Moon-Buggy Mayhem 

We’ll be learning about the moon, making model 

moon-buggies and moon-buggy racers. Who will 

be the moon-buggy race champion? Minimum 

age 7. North York Moors National Park YO21 2NB 


Poo Day! 

Have a go at making your very own replica 

historic poo and discover how poo is used to solve 

ancient mysteries. Barley Hall YO1 8AR 


Holiday maths activity 

workshop 

Maths Activity Workshops for Primary School 

children during holiday times. These are part of 

a series which also includes Literacy, Science and 

Eleven-Plus. Holiday Maths Activity Workshops 

offer lots of Problem solving, treasure hunts, 

games - all interactional, confidence-building 

and FUN! Staveley & Copgrove Village Hall HG5 

9LD www.hattertontuition.co.uk 

Lantern Making and Lantern 

Walk 

Join us at Grassington National Park Centre to 

make a simple lantern and join in with a lantern 

walk along the river Wharfe. Grassington 

National Park Centre BD23 5LB 

www.yorkshiredales.org.uk 

Have-a-go Archery 

New for 2017! A chance for young Vikings to get 

a taste of what it was like to be a 10th century 

warrior learning archery! Eric Bloodaxe is 

preparing for his last stand and he needs skilled 

warriors for his army. Do you have what it takes? 

Instructed by trained Viking champions you will 

learn how to use a bow and arrow with hawk-like 

efficiency! Suitable for children aged 8 to 12 

only. Sessions last approx 15 mins. St Sampson’s 

Square Marquee 


Visionary Victorians 

Travel back in time to Victorian England. Explore 

the museum and discover more about some of 

the amazing inventions from the 19th century 

Beck Isle Museum YO18 8DU 

www.beckislemuseum.org.uk 


Making Friends! 

Half Term Craft Activities at the Mercer Gallery. 

Drop in to the gallery and try some crafts with 

a friendship theme, we’ll be making friendship 

bracelets and paper crafts – bring a friend and 

work together too! £3.00 per child. Drop in 

activities for families, no need to book. Mercer 

Art Gallery HG1 2SA www.harrogate.gov.uk 


Junior Experience Day 

Is your child aged between 8-11 with a passion 

for marine animals? Then join us for a fun-filled 

experience day where your youngster can help 

carry out some of The Deep’s daily activities. The 

Deep HU9 1TU www.thedeep.co.uk 


Wacky Weather Station 

Come rain or shine, join us to go weather tracking 

at Harlow Carr. Don your wellies and sun hat, arm 

yourself with your weather measuring devices 

and go tracking the weather around the garden. 

Visit our Wacky Weather Station and record what 

you found in our ingenious Weather-o-meter! 

Harlow Carr HG3 1QB www.rhs.org.uk 

Bird box making 

Our feathery friends will be looking around for 

places to nest pretty soon, so this half-term we’ll 

be showing you how to make a home for them 

to put up in your own garden. Booking essential, 

call 01765 643189. Fountains Abbey and Studley 

Royal Water Garden HG4 3DY 



Workshop for Children - 

Flowers 

A workshop for children aged 6 - 11 who 

would like to be creative with flowers (must be 

accompanied by an adult). The emphasis is not on 

the technical side of things, but on encouraging 

children to ‘get stuck in’ and enjoy working 

with flowers. Mum can enjoy a cup of coffee 

and a cake. All flowers, foliage and materials 

are provided and your child will take home their 

beautiful and unique creation. Booking essential 

as numbers are limited. £15, call 01748 824144 

to book. The Flower Studio DL10 4QB www. 

eliseweddingflowers 


Drumming Workshop 

Discover your rhythm at this fun drumming and 

percussion workshop, where you will learn how 

percussion instruments have played an important 

part in the evolution of music across history. St 

Saviourgate YO1 8NQ 


Puppet Making Workshop 

Make a puppet character to take home and make 

your very own story! The workshop will begin 

with making the basic puppet form. Then it’s 

time to let imaginations run wild to create a new 

puppet character using a vast array of materials. 

The workshop leader will be on hand to give top 

tips for customising characters and at the end of 

the session participants will have a wonderful 

working puppet to take home and make a show! 

Age 5-12 Helmsley Arts Centre YO62 5DW 

www.helmsleyarts.co.uk 

Get Crafty at the Café 

Join us in the Blue Bell café as we get crafty and 

make everything from a weird wader, seed bomb, 

bird ball, lighthouse. Spurn National Nature 

Reserve HU12 0UH www.ywt.org.uk 

Fossil Hunters 

Do you fancy being a dinosaur detective? Take 

part in our family fun activities and find out 

about fossils, search for clues in the ground and 

learn more about dinosaurs. Beck Isle Museum 

YO18 8DU www.beckislemuseum.org.uk 


Best Beard 

Competition 

Now in it’s 9th year, the annual Best Beard 

Competition is a highlight of JORVIK Viking 

Festival finale weekend Come along to see the 

best beards on offer from young and old, men 

and women. That’s right, homemade beards are 

not just welcomed but encouraged! With prizes 

and the coveted ‘Beard Trophies’ on offer it’s 

time to get working on those bristles. Coppergate 

YO1 9WT www.jorvik-viking-festival.co.uk 


Family Muck-in Day 

Come along and help us keep the scrub off the 

moorland. Find out why moorlands are vital parts 

of the entire ecosystem and what makes them so 

special in the UK. Take away your own Brimham 

birch sapling to plant at home and let us know 

how it’s fairing. Brimham Rocks HG3 4DW 

www.nationaltrust.org.uk 


Shrove Tuesday Skipping 

Day at Scarborough South 

Bay 

Experience the unique celebration of Shrove 

Tuesday in Scarborough, when the entire 

town turns out to skip – yes, you read that 

right, skip! Young and old, skipping ropes 

flying, right along the seafront, which is 

closed to traffic for the afternoon. No one’s 

quite clear why it happens, but one thing’s 

for sure – you won’t see anything like it 

anywhere else! Scarborough South Bay 

YO11 1PB 

www.discoveryorkshirecoast.com 

1 March 

Marine Art: Nick O’Neill 

The Deep’s 3rd floor gallery will play home 

to a thought provoking series of artworks 

from six artists in 2017, all with a marine 

theme. The Deep HU9 1TU 

www.thedeep.co.uk 

1 March – 27 Aug 

Bempton Cliffs Bug Parade 

Trail 

Who doesn’t love a good old bug hunt?! Grab 

yourself a Discovery Backpack kitted out with 

magnifying bug pot and ID chart and you’re 

ready to start your adventure! Pick up minibeasts 

as you go and when you return to the 

Seabird Centre you can get up close and 

personal to all your finds using our fab digital 

microscopes! What will you find? Bempton 

Cliffs YO15 1JF www.rspb.org.uk 

2 March 

World Book Day Party 

World Book Day Party with Settle Stories 

With bookish games that’ll make you giggle, a 

story quiz that’ll oil the cogs and storytelling 

from the professionals. This party is a 

guaranteed win for all story lovers. FREE, 

booking essential via Settle Stories website 

For 9-13 year olds Settle Library BD24 9RB 

www.settlestories.org.uk 



8 


3 March 

East Riding Youth Dance 

East Riding Youth Dance offers exciting 

opportunities for young people aged 9 to 18 

years. Working with professional dance artists 

you will get the chance to create a performance 

piece to showcase alongside other groups at a 

local dance platform. Woldgate College YO42 2LL 

www2.eastriding.gov.uk 

4 March 

Fossil Handling - Climate 

Change 

Explore a stunning collection of real fossils 

through hands on sessions with our fossil 

experts. Rotunda Museum YO11 2PS 

www.scarboroughmuseumstrust.com 

Stargazing and night time 

nature walk 

Come and join a night time nature walk and 

stargazing in one of the darkest places in 

Britain. Hear informative talks by experienced 

astronomers from the York Astro club and 

discover more about the wildlife that lives in 

the woodland with our Head Ranger. We’ll have 

telescopes, and refreshments so all you need to 

bring are warm clothes and curiosity! Rievaulx 

Terrace YO62 5LJ 

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/rievaulx-terrace 

FREE OPEN DAY - The Pauline 

Quirke Academy of 

Performing Arts 

The Pauline Quirke Academy is a weekend 

performing arts school for 4-18 year olds – 

and due to popular demand PQA Harrogate is 

opening a new afternoon Academy Harrogate 

Grammar School HG2 0DZ 

www.pqacademy.com 

4-26 March 

From Beatrix to Beckham 

National Portrait Gallery Director Nicholas 

Cullinan has chosen a further four portraits 

of people who have shaped British history 

and culture over the centuries. Beningbrough 

Hall YO30 1DD www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ 

beningbrough-hall-gallery-and-gardens 

4 March – 1 April 

Saturday Art Club 

These artist-led art workshops are designed 

for young people aged 10 – 12, giving a chance 

to experiment and enjoy a range of new art 

skills. Each week we will tackle a different 

creative challenge, working with art works from 

our collections. £50 for a 5 week course, incl. 

refreshments and materials. Places are limited, 

please book in advance. Mercer Art Gallery HG1 

2SA www.harrogate.gov.uk 

8 March 

Open Day 

Bankfield Nursery & Pre-Prep, Highfield Prep 

School and Harrogate Ladies’ College. To 

book your place on the open day, call 01423 

537045 or email events@hlc.org.uk HIGHFIELD 

PREP SCHOOL HG1 2QG www.hlc.org.uk 

11 March 

Step inside the bird hide 

Join members our wildlife team in the bird 

hide where they will be on hand to help you 

spot birds and to answer your questions. 

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water 

Garden HG4 3DY 


Waves of Waste Beach Clean at 

Filey 

Come along and help us tackle the “waves of 

waste” as we give Filey beach a thorough clean! 

Marine litter is currently one of the biggest 

threats to our marine environment and is 

increasing globally at a phenomenal rate. It affects 

wildlife through entanglement, ingeston and 

contamination by poisoning marine food chains. 

You could help reduce these threats and join the 

fight to keep your coastline clean. Martins Ravine 

YO14 9ET www.ywt.org.uk 

FlaminGO! 10k Run 

The ‘FlaminGO! 10k Run’ is a multi-terrain 2-lap 

course, passing through the zoo, theme park and 

golf course areas of Flamingo Land. The run is in 

aid of the Udzungwa Forest Project (UFP), a charity 

which carries out work in Tanzania to help protect 

wild animal populations and conserve tropical 

forests. To find out more about the amazing work 

UFP does, please visit the conservation page on the 

Flamingo Land website Flamingo Land Resort YO17 

6UX www.flamingoland.co.uk 

Celebration of Science Week 

Join us in a celebration of Science Week. Come 

and find out a little bit about how science and 

technology have revolutionised the way people 

have lived since the reign of Edward VII. Sewerby 

Hall and Gardens. www.sewerbyhall.co.uk 

11-12 March 

Postcode Weekend 

Kids go free! Postcodes: YO26, YO51, YO61 and YO7. 

Please bring proof of address ie Council Tax bill 

Thorp Perrow Arboretum DL8 2PS 

www.thorpperrow.com 

18 March 

Tim Hopgood 

If you like stories and drawing, come along and 

meet award-winning author/illustrator Tim 

Hopgood. Tim will be reading his best-selling 

book Wow! Said the Owl as well as doing some fun 

owl-themed craft activities. This session is suitable 

for children aged 3-6 years. Explore York Libraries 

and Archives, Central Library YO1 7DS www. 

yorktheatreroyal.co.uk 

Northern Ballet Workshop 

Join Northern Ballet for a workshop based on their 

ballet for children, Goldilocks & the Three Bears. 

The workshops give you the chance to work with a 

professional ballet company and learn steps from the 

production. After a fun warm up, delve into the story 

of Goldilocks and the Three Bears and try out some of 

the moves for yourself. No previous dance experience 

required, just join in and have fun. Junction Goole 

DN14 5DL www.junctiongoole.co.uk 

19 March 

Dalby Forest Parkrun 

Parkrun organise free, weekly, 5km timed runs 

around the world. They are open to everyone, free, 

and are safe and easy to take part in. A discounted 

£2 Forestry Commission toll charge applies per 

vehicle for parkrunners (valid from 8.30am – 

10.30am). For more information please visit: Dalby 

Forest Courtyard YO18 7LT. www.parkrun.org. 

uk/dalbyforest 

25 March – 7 May 

Paper Panda 

Beautiful and inspiring work from a selection of 

talented paperwork artists. See how a simple 

piece of paper can be transformed into an 

intricate work of art. Renown for exquisite paper 

cut artwork, this charming exhibition takes 

story telling through imaginary to a new level. 

Nunnington Hall YO62 5UY www.nationaltrust. 

org.uk/nunnington-hall 



SCHOOLS AND TUITION 

Schools and tuition 

Ultimate Activity Camps – 

outstanding holiday childcare! 

Children can have the most ultimate fun 

during the holidays as Ultimate Activity 

Camps are running their outstanding 

holiday childcare programmes in the 

area for children aged 4-14 years! 

With over 25 years’ experience 

of running first-class holiday camps, 

Ultimate Activity Camps offer the 

opportunity for children to have fun, 

meet friends and try a huge array of 

exciting activities during the school 

holidays. 

From swimming, zorbing and tennis 

to archery, art and fencing, there are 

over 40 games, sports or creative 

activities giving children a new 

experience every day. 

All Ultimate Activity Camps are 

Ofsted-registered children’s activity 

day camps that have been rated ‘Good’ 

or ‘Outstanding’ and their staff on camp 

are trained to offer high levels of care 

to ensure children are safe 

and engaged. 

Whether children are new to holiday 

clubs or seasoned ‘campers’, their 

team will encourage children to try new 

activities and build self-confidence – 

and naturally have lots of fun! 

They run at the best schools in the 

country which offer first-class facilities 

including indoor heated pools, sports 

pitches, sports halls and indoor space, 

the perfect setting for holiday fun 

whether for a day or several weeks – 

the choice is yours (or your child’s!). 

Some locations also offer brilliant 

story-led Survival childcare programme 

– again bookable by the day or week 

and offering an optional Camp Out 

each week. 

To start your child’s holiday 

adventure, visit their website 

(www.ultimateactivity.co.uk) 

which explains everything about their 

locations, dates, activities and special 

offers, or you can call them on 

0330 111 7077 (local rate number). 

10 


Harrogate Ladies College 

Harrogate Ladies’ College is a family of leading independent 

schools delivering a world class education for boys aged 2-11 

and girls aged 2-18 years. 

Bankfield Nursery and Pre-Prep establishes the foundation 

for a child’s future learning and it’s where a passion for 

learning and a love of life begins. Highfield Prep School is 

committed to every child, providing individual attention in 

small classes. Academic standards are high and the broad 

curriculum is supplemented by over 50 extracurricular 

activities. 

In 2016 the number of A level A* grades more than doubled 

and a third of all girls achieved three or more A*-A grades. 

Open Morning on Wednesday 8th March, 10am-12pm. To 

book call 01423 537045 email events@hlc.org.uk or visit 

www.hlc.org.uk 


Take advantage of a Free Trial at your 

local Kumon study centre 

At your local Kumon Study Centre our aim is to develop students 

into confident, independent learners and help them achieve their 

full potential. Kumon enables children to confidently take on new 

challenges and develop strong study skills. 

Through daily study of the Kumon programmes, your child will 

develop the ability to learn for themselves so they do not become 

dependent on – or limited by – the skills and knowledge of others. 

Between 1-28 February, we are offering Free Trial of the Kumon 

Maths and/or English programme for new students. The Free Trial 

allows you to attend the Study Centre and find out what your child 

can achieve with Kumon. 

For more information, please contact your local Kumon study 

centre. Hull, Newland Study Centre 01482 762016 

Kirk Ella Study Centre 01482 445544 

Did you know that you can find 

North Yorkshire Primary Times 

on Facebook & Twitter? Come 

and join in the fun and get top 

tips, recipes, articles and be in 

with the first chance to enter 

competitions. 

To find us on 

Twitter: @ptnyorks 

To find us on Facebook: 

www.facebook.com/ptnyorks 

To tutor or not to tutor? 

Tutoring has long been the go-to choice of anxious parents trying 

to ensure a coveted grammar school place or for children who are 

struggling to keep up at school. 

Tuition can help children with their self-confidence; provide an extra 

challenge in their strongest areas; help prepare for exams; catch up after 

absence; help grasp key concepts in maths or literacy. Whatever the 

reason, tutoring has been shown to help improve school performance, 

confidence and self-esteem, as well as help children develop 

independent study skills and learn at their own pace. 

How to choose the right tuition for your child 

In the past, choosing a tutor was largely based on personal 

recommendation, but nowadays there are many different tutoring 

services to choose from: 

One-to-one tutoring at home 

These lessons usually take place in the home. One-to-one attention may 

be required if a child is really struggling in a subject or if they have a 

complicated learning style. 

One-to-one and small group tutoring at a study centre 

A tutor will be responsible for no more than six children at a time. 

The tutor works with each child on their own individualised learning 

programme and also encourage independent learning. When children 

study alongside other children in a small group, the pressure of one-onone 

attention is taken away. Tutoring as part of a small group is more 

cost effective than individual learning. 

Online tutoring 

Online tuition uses programmes such as Skype or Google+. Private 

online tutors are cheaper as they will not be required to travel and may 

tutor more than one student at once. 

What to expect from your tutor 

Whatever learning style you choose, the tutor should provide: 

1. Understanding: A tutor should be familiar with specific aspects 

of the curriculum your child needs to cover and will very quickly 

be able to gauge their level of understanding and identify any 

misconceptions and deal with them effectively. 

2. Engagement: Engaging a child’s interest is paramount. If the 

student is interested, they understand, and once they understand 

they gain confidence and improve much more quickly. 

3. Flexibility: Tutors should create an individualised learning 

programme, according to each specific child’s needs and 

learning style, to help them reach their ‘eureka’ moment or see 

difficult subjects in a new light. 

4. Variety: The more resources a tutor can use during the session, 

the better. Some study centres, have developed their own 

resources using teams of maths and English specialists 

which are designed to meet the outcomes of the National 

Curriculum - this makes the work directly relevant to 

pupils. 

5. Independence: Guidance and assistance 

should be given by the tutor, but one 

of the main aims is to give children the 

ability to tackle and consolidate learning 

independently. Often small pieces of 

homework will be given to encourage 

this. It really makes a difference! 

Contributed by Becky Nicholson, 

Centre Manager, First Class Learning 

www.firstclasslearning.co.uk 



Junior School 

“On visiting Bootham Junior School you will be struck immediately by its family approach… 

there is a warm, friendly atmosphere from the head teacher down to the youngest pupils. 

This provides an excellent environment for the vital early years of your child’s education. Its 

warm, friendly atmosphere enables children to reach their full potential, a rigorous education 

produces outstanding achievement and its caring ethos provides a model for learning, good 

citizenship and self-confidence. 

“Outdoor learning is taken to another level with the forest school in the grounds (racks of 

wellies in evidence). All take part in a residential experience (right from reception, which is 

very rare). It’s a gentle start with the youngest children pitching tents in the school hall for an 

overnight stay, complete with head-torches for a night walk and hot chocolate before bed. 

“The school’s extensive facilities are enhanced by the link with Bootham Senior School, one 

of the leading secondary, independent schools in the country. A short walk away, pupils can 

take advantage of its amenities including a fully equipped theatre, design and technology 

departments and an observatory. “ Good Schools Guide 

Senior School 

A Bootham education is about more than knowledge, skills and paper qualifications. 

Bootham School encourages its students to be creative thinkers, peacemakers and confident 

humanitarians. We hope that, while they are at School, and afterwards, they will contribute to 

responsive and responsible public leadership in the world. 

“The pupils’ personal development is excellent at all ages. Their spiritual development is 

outstanding. They have extremely high levels of moral and social awareness and a strong 

sense of right and wrong. They demonstrate a high degree of mutual respect and support. 

Pupils of all ages willingly take on responsibility and service both within and beyond the school 

community, and take seriously the need to play their part in working towards a better world, in 

line with Quaker testimonies. The arrangements for pastoral care and for welfare, health and 

safety are excellent and play a significant part in promoting the pupils’ all-round development. 

The quality of boarding is excellent and boarders gain much from the experience.” 

Independent Schools Inspectorate 

12 


Hull Collegiate 

Hull Collegiate School is an independent, co-educational day school for pupils aged 3 to 18. 

Based on the country house estate of Tranby Croft on the outskirts of West Hull, the single-site 

school offers a first class education with outstanding teaching provision. 

Our ethos of ‘the best in everyone’ is reflected in the diverse range of talents and skills which 

are nurtured in our pupils, ensuring that everyone reaches his or her full potential. 

In world where the pace of change is ever increasing, we strive to create a learning 

environment which enables children to be adaptable, resilient, and capable of using their 

abilities in many ways; they will be ready for anything and afraid of nothing. We work closely 

with parents to provide the best possible education for our pupils, where they can discover 

new talents, build on their strengths, and celebrate their achievements. 

Scholarships and Financially Assisted places are available at entry into Year 7, 9 and 12. 

Request a prospectus online or call 01482 657016. You can also visit on Saturday 11 March, 

9am – 12pm for our whole school open morning. 

www.hullcollegiateschool.co.uk 


A Passport for Life 

We are often asked at Scarborough College what the secret of our 

success is. The answer is no secret: a teacher to pupil ratio of 1:9, top 

quality and experienced staff, state-of-the-art facilities and a nurturing, 

supportive and ‘can-do’ environment brings the very best out of every 

child, whatever their strengths and talents. 

Don’t just take our word for it, come and see for yourself what we can 

offer you. 

OPEN DAY EVERYDAY - call 01723 360620 to book a Taster 

Day or for more information. 

Applications for September 2017 still being taken for Year 7. 

Assisted places and scholarships are available. 

Register you interest now or find out about our Year 7 Scholarships for 

2017 by contacting Amy Grace at registrar@scarboroughcollege.co.uk 

SCHOLARSHIP DAY 22 MARCH 2017 

www.scarboroughcollege.co.uk 

Everyone Active 

Everyone Active partner with Warwick Castle to offer customers the 

chance to win the ultimate sleepover!! 

Warwick Castle is a truly unique setting for a short break and 

now Everyone Active is offering 3 lucky families the chance to win a 

weekend break at this amazing venue. Customers who enrol or reenrol 

on swimming lessons or sign up to an Easter or May half term 

holiday camp before 19 March will be entered into a draw to win a 

VIP stay in the Castle’s Tower Suite (complete with porter service, 

exclusive behind the scenes tour and champagne reception!) or 

one of two weekend breaks for all the family in a fantastic Knight’s 

Village Lodge. There are further runners up prizes to be won and all 

those who sign up before the 31 March 2017 will receive a voucher 

enabling kids to enter for free (with a full paying adult)to Warwick 

Castle, Sea Life Sanctuary Scarborough or Sea Life Manchester. 

For further information pop into your local Everyone Active centre 

or visit www.everyoneactive.com/WarwickCastle 


PARTIES 

Cedarbarn 

All aboard the 

Cedarbarn 

Express Children’s 

Parties. Running 

from May to 

September Parties 

include Themed 

Invites, Picnic at 

the Station & Train 

Rides. Arriving soon our Exciting Adventure Play Area. 

All for only £150.00 (£10 per Child - Minimum of 

15 Children) 

Taking Bookings Now 01751 475614 

See Website for details. www.cedarbarnfarmshop.co.uk. 

It’s Par 

Birthday parties 

at Piglets 

Every party includes a dedicated 

party host to greet you and your 

guests and host your day, admission 

to the park all day and all the 

activities (stay and play all day), 

one adult free with every child, discount for additional adults, decorated 

party room, party tea, party bags and a special visit from Truffles the Pig. 

The party will have an exclusive tractor trailer tour and 1-1 animal feeding 

and petting with our animal barn team. 

NOW OPEN FOR FEBRUARY HALF TERM FUN 

With lots of undercover fun including Lambing Live, there’s so much 

February Frolics family fun at Piglets Adventure Farm.NEW for 2017! 

Brand new Bale Play Baaarn with straw bale mountain, junior tractor 

drivers’ area, giant drop slide, rope swing, dig’n’play. Be amazed at the 

Sheep Show Live stage show, featuring dancing sheep. Discounted 

prices when booked online. www.pigletsadventurefarm.com. 

Piglets Adventure Farm Park, YO32 9ST. 01904 499700 

Lab Rascals 

Lab Rascals is an award winning 

interactive science party & school 

workshops company in Yorkshire and 

the Humber. Lab Rascals scientists 

educate, inspire and entertain children with the magnificent world of 

science. At Lab Rascals science parties children complete all scientific 

experiments themselves, from making smoking bubbles to making 

slime. All parties are hosted by degree qualified scientists. Due to Lab 

Rascals research at the University of Hull into children’s perceptions 

of science they leave all the “flashes and bangs” in the Lab bring only 

the most enjoyable and engaging hands-on experimentation into your 

home, village hall or classroom. www.labrascals.co.uk 

14 

Primary Times FEBRUARY Issue | www.primarytimes.net/nyorks 

East Riding Leisure Birthday Parties 

No mess, No stress - Let us take 

care of your child’s Birthday Party! 

Birthdays are a big event and 

we want to help you make them 

memorable for both you and your 

child! From soft play, bouncy 

castles, football parties and 

multi-activity parties - not 

forgetting our pool parties, sit back, relax and let us take the stress 

out of your child’s party! 

Why book your party with us? 

· No sharing with other parties 

· Quality equipment, facilities and trained staff 

· Each birthday child gets a free family swim and birthday card 

· Every child attending receives a free swim voucher. 

For information www.eastridingleisure.co.uk. (01482) 395231 

Facebook EastRidingLeisure and twitter @ERLeisure

ty Time! 

And here are some oldfashioned 

party games that 

will help to bring fun and 

laughter to every party! 

Pass the parcel. The mystery present 

wrapped in layer after layer of wrapping 

paper is always a hit for any kids over 

the age of three. There are all kinds of 

variations of this game – you could place 

a lolly or small gift in each layer so every 

child gets a prize or have only one prize at 

the very bottom of the parcel. 

PARTIES 

Often the highlight of a child’s year, the 

birthday party will etch an enormous 

mark on the family celebratory calendar. 

Filled with wonderment and wishes, this 

magical moment is dreamt about long before it 

arrives – for a child that is! For a parent, it may 

be a very different story altogether. For the 

grown-ups, the magic and wonderment may 

be replaced with an overactive mind buzzing 

To start with: 

Discuss with your child the 

type of party he or she would 

realistically like. Next, work out 

if you can afford your child’s 

birthday dream and if you will 

have time to complete all the 

arrangements? 

4-6 weeks to go: 

• Choose a date on or near 

your child’s birthday and 

arrange a suitable time. 

• Phone around venues/party attractions 

to check availability. 

• If you want special entertainment, book 

a professional entertainer. 

• With your child, discuss the guest list. 

Send out invitations with your child at 

school. 

2-4 weeks to go: 

• If your party venue doesn’t supply food, 

write up your menu. 

• Fill up your freezer. Buying party food 

in advance will give you the opportunity 

to take advantage of three for two and 

‘Buy one get one free’ offers that line 

the supermarket aisles. 

• Buy the non-perishable items. 

1 week to go: 

• Follow up non-receipts of RSVP’s. 

Finalise numbers. 

• Buy or order the birthday cake. 

• Shop for the party food either online or 

with endless checklists; there may be anguish 

about the additional responsibility, plus of 

course there are the multiple presents to buy, 

the entertainers to sort... but it’s worth the 

effort as all they want is for their child to have a 

happy, memorable day. To help whittle through 

those never ending lists, Primary Times has 

produced this Party Guide to help ensure 

nothing is forgotten ….. 

at the supermarket. 

• Re-confirm date and times with the 

venue and entertainer 

• Arrange the party bags. Remember to 

make up a couple of extras for brothers 

and sisters who might stay. 

• Sort out your child’s birthday costume. 

On the Day: 

• Decorate the venue and prepare food 

and drink. 

• Collect the Helium Balloons and blow 

up any other balloons. 

• Write the name of each guest onto a 

stick-on label to attach to the cups. This 

will avoid any potential upset. 

• Remember the bin bags, washing-up 

liquid and cleaning cloths. And don’t 

forget the matches! 

• Keep track of who gave which 

present. It helps when writing 

thank you letters. 

Pin the tail on the donkey. All you 

need is a picture of a tailless animal and 

enough tails for each child, a blindfold 

and some pins to attach the tails. Each 

child takes it in turns to be spun round a 

few times and then to attempt to pin the 

tail as close to the point where the tail 

should be, whilst blindfolded. 

Musical chairs. Another fun game 

where players have to dance about until 

the music stops, and then find the nearest 

chair to sit on. Make sure there is always 

one less chair than the amount of players. 

Each time a player is out, remove another 

chair until you have a winner! 

Blind man’s bluff. Blindfold one child 

and spin him around three times. The 

other children must move around making 

noises while the blindfolded child tries to 

catch them. When the blindfolded child 

catches another child, he must guess who 

it is. If he guesses correctly, the caught 

child takes over as the blind man. 

The chocolate game. This game 

demands children sit in a circle and in 

the middle place a board with a large 

unwrapped bar of chocolate, a knife, fork, 

hat, scarf, pair of gloves and a pair of 

dice. Whoever rolls a six, or a double, has 

to quickly put on the hat, scarf and gloves 

and try to eat the bar of chocolate with a 

knife and fork. Meanwhile, the rest of the 

circle continue rolling the dice until the 

next child takes over. 

Bash a pinata. People think pinatas 

are just for birthday parties, but smashing 

open a container filled with treats has 

been done as far back as the fourteenth 

century to mark religious festivals. It’s 

easy to make your own pinata, too! 

Sleeping lions. This party game is 

good to quieten rowdy kids down at the 

end of festivities. Get all the children to 

lie down and pretend to be sleepy lions. 

Whoever moves after the game begins 

will be out. During this time ‘the hunter’ 

walks around the room talking to them 

and trying to make them laugh. Each child 

who is out can help you try and make the 

others laugh. The last person left sleeping 

is the winner. 


PARTIES 

The Deep 

Does your child 

have a love of the 

marine world? 

Why not treat them 

to a 1:1 experience 

at The Deep 

aquarium in Hull. 

Help our team 

carry out some 

of our daily tasks, including carrying out a scatter feed, handling 

some of the smaller residents, touring behind the scenes, viewing 

the nursery areas, essential cleaning tasks and a full guided tour. 

Suitable for children aged 8 and above, prices start at just £95. 

Packages are available for older children and adults. 

Visit www.thedeep.co.uk for more details. 

Lightwater Valley 

Party Packages 

At Lightwater Valley we have a 

fantastic variety of birthday party 

packages available. Whether you 

are looking for the thrills and 

spills of the theme park, dinosaur 

madness at the Jurassic Adventure 

Golf, bad piggy combat at the Angry Birds 

Activity Park or simply tumbling around at 

the Indoor Soft Play - we have packages to 

suit all ages. So sit back, relax and let us 

take care of everything, all you need to do is 

turn up and celebrate. For more information 

please call us on 01765 635321 or email 

us on leisure@lightwatervalley.co.uk. 

Needle Point Sewing Café 

Needle Point is a small independent business 

run by friendly staff. We host sewing parties for 

all ages which are fun and creative. Children 

make lovely handmade cushions, bags, bunting 

or animal cuddly toys using a mixture of hand 

and machine sewing. 

Packages include; party invitations, party 

bags, 1 hour 30 minute supervised craft activity, 

all materials, equipment and food. 

Please call or visit our website for more 

information. 

www.needlepointsewingcafe.co.uk 

York Dungeon 

Want to make their birthday extra scary this year? 

It’s brave kids only with a birthday party at The York 

Dungeon, where 2000 years of the city’s dark history 

is lurking in the shadows. With a cast of hilarious 

and creepy characters from the past ready to show 

your party all the grim bits from history, including the 

vengeful Vikings, sneaky Dick Turpin and traitorous 

Guy Fawkes. You’ll laugh, you’ll scream and you’ll 

never forget it! www.thedungeons.com/york 

Flamingo Land 

Flamingo Land can host your 

child’s birthday meal in either 

the Metropolis restaurant or 

the Coach House country 

pub which includes banners, 

balloons, party bags with 

hat and birthday cake with 

candles. We also offer bespoke 

children’s party packages 

to suit the individual, which 

can include fairytale or hero 

character costumes, a magician, face-painter or 

DJ, along with a party food menu and visiting 

the theme park and zoo. Animal encounters can 

also be incorporated. 

The Coach House also has an outdoor 

patio area, which is ideally situated next to the 

Children’s Planet interactive play area with 

tunnels and climbing frames. The Mansion 

House can be hired out for larger parties. 

Please email events@flamingoland.co.uk or 

call 0800 40 888 40 with your requirements 

(admission required to theme park and zoo for 

day guests). 

Laser Station HulL 

Newly opened on the Terrace Level 

of St Stephen’s Shopping Centre, find 

Laser Station inside Fun Station - a 

new multi-level laser tag arena, hosting 

birthday parties that are out of this 

world! Midweek party packages start 

from £10.99pp and all party options 

include party food and invitations. Party packages have options to 

include Highway 66 Mini Bowling and Fun Cards to play on the games 

in Fun Station. A great place to let the kids burn of some energy, enjoy a 

party meal and get involved in a range of activities! 

www.laserstation.co.uk/st-stephens--hull 

Woodland Birthday Parties 

Want to be a shipwrecked pirate and learn how to survive? 

Maybe a knight or princess defending your castle? Make a 

fire, build a den, hunt for minibeasts, get crafty with nature? 

These are some of the many options but which one will you 

choose? 

Our parties combine Bushcraft and Forest Schools and are 

run in one of our fantastic woodland locations, Guisborough 

Forest and Burn Wood Yarm. Our mission is to get everyone, 

children and adults alike, having fun, exploring, discovering 

and creating with nature. Interested then please check our 

website for more details via www.acornantics.co.uk 

16 


www.primarytimes.net/nyorks | FEBRUARY Issue Primary Times 17

BOX OFFICE 

Performing 

ARTS 

Northern Lights Drama 

Northern Lights Drama is a local independent 

theatre school established in 2013 by 

professionally trained actors Hannah Levy and 

Tilly Oakshott. The school runs weekly Acting and 

Musical Theatre classes for children 3 - 18 years 

in Hessle, Willerby, Welton, Anlaby, Cottingham 

and Beverley. All classes focus on boosting confidence and self-esteem 

whilst inspiring young people to shine. The school is proud to be training 

the next generation of stars with a growing number of pupils being cast in 

professional theatre, film and television roles. To book a FREE trial class 

visit www.heynld.co.uk or call 01482 641690 

Creating thrills and skills for life 

The Pauline Quirke Academy is a weekend performing arts school 

for 4-18 year olds. Students spend three hours with us, rotating 

through hour long sessions in Comedy & Drama, Musical Theatre 

and Film & Television. Our specialist modules, packed full of tips 

that Pauline has learnt from nearly 50 years in the business, will 

teach you everything you need to know to act, sing, dance or direct 

like a professional. PQA believe in inspiring and rewarding our 

students, so we offer free group Trinity exams, masterclasses, 

cinema screenings, the chance to join 

our exclusive agency - Quirky Kidz and 

the opportunity to perform in London’s 

West End. 

PQA Harrogate is holding free open 

day on Saturday 4th March from 1.45- 

5pm at Harrogate Grammar School. 

For more information please visit 

www.pqacademy.com or call 

0800 531 6282. 

Stagecoach 

Harrogate Stagecoach celebrates 

its 20th Anniversary this year with 

RADA Shakespeare Workshops, 

trips to the theatre and a Gala 

concert in April. Over the last 

twenty years many hundreds of 

students have been given the 

creative courage and confidence 

through the performing arts to 

pursue their dreams in all walks of 

life............and the dream goes on! 

www.stagecoach.co.uk 

18 


office 

Your family theatre guide... 

BOX OFFICE 

Beverley Minster 

Minster Yard, Beverley, HU17 0DP 



Henry V 

Marking the centenary of the First World 

War, award-winning theatre company Antic 

Disposition present their critically acclaimed 

adaptation of Shakespeare’s Henry V in 

Beverley Minster. 

Bridlington Spa 

South Marine Drive, Bridlington, 

YO15 3JH 

www.bridspa.com 


Marty MacDonald’s Toy Machine 

A brand new show featuring the voices of 

CBeebies’ Justin Fletcher and Nicole Davis 

as Pongo the Pig and Molly-Moo the Cow 

- from the team who brought you Marty 

MacDonald’s Farm! 


Magic Mike’s Pirate Adventure 

Magic Mike returns to Bridlington for an 

exciting and colourful stage show. Enjoy 

this entertaining afternoon in a family 

friendly environment. Magic Mike has visitors 

coming back each year to see his fast moving 

hilarious show that has grown ups laughing 

as much as children. 

17 March 

Northern Ballet - Goldilocks and the 

Three Bears 

The magic continues with Goldilocks and the 

Three Bears, especially for children, this is 

the perfect opportunity for your little ones 

to enjoy live ballet, music and theatre for the 

first time with the Northern Ballet. 

Goldilocks and the Three Bears 

Goldilocks & the Three Bears is the perfect 

opportunity for your little ones to enjoy 

live ballet, music and theatre. With a family 

of friendly bears, a beautiful blue bird and 

bowls of delicious porridge, this ballet is just 

right! 

East Riding Theatre 

10 Lord Roberts Road, Beverley, 

HU17 9BE 

www.eastridingtheatre.co.uk 


John Hegley’s Family Wordship 

Family fun with the possibility of some 

drawing and singing 

Fenwicks 

Coppergate, York, YO1 9NT 



Snail Tails Storytelling 

Enjoy the legends of Bloodaxe’s world 

through traditional family storytelling. Join 

Snail Tales Storytelling and travel back in 

time to hear tales & ballads told by Vikings 

and Saxons. Fun For the whole family, with 

lyre music, puppetry, and plenty of joining in! 

Grand Opera House 

York 

Cumberland Street, York, YO1 9SW 

www.atgtickets.com 


The First Hippo On The Moon 

From Number One bestselling children’s 

author David Walliams comes an explosively 

funny space adventure for children of 3 and 

up. Two big hippos. One ENORMOUS dream. 

Who can make it to the moon first? 

27 Feb – 3 April 

Thoroughly Modern Millie 

A brilliant evening of madcap merriment 

and stars Strictly Come Dancing’s Joanne 

Clifton as the adorable Millie. This hilarious 

musical comedy features spectacular 

dance routines and great songs. So beat 

the drum - here comes Thoroughly Modern 

Millie! 

6-11 March 

Wonderland 

An enchanting musical adaptation of Lewis 

Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland 

and Through the Looking Glass, with a 

huge heart, a medley of magic and a whole 

lot of wonder, with Wendi Peters, Dave 

Willetts and Rachael Wooding. 

Harrogate Theatre 

6 Oxford Street, Harrogate, HG1 1QF 

www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk 


Return to the Forbidden Planet 

Welcome aboard Spaceship Albatross! The 

play is a paradoy of Shakespeare’s ‘The 

Tempest’. And a 1950s Sci-fi B-Movie. This 

rock and roll masterpiece includes many 

favourite songs from the 1960s and 1970s. 

Join Captain Tempest and his crew for an 

exciting journey across the galaxy. 


The Sooty Show 

Expect magic, music and mayhem with 

buckets full of audience participation. A 

spectacular treat for Sooty fans old and new 

- plus a chance to meet Sooty and Richard 

after the show! 


Molly’s Marvellous Moustache 

I will invent an invention and people will 

say My, what a MARVELLOUS MOUSTACHE.’ 

Molly wants to be just like the grown ups. 

So her mummy makes her a moustache. 

With her moustache she can go anywhere 

and do anything she likes. But being a 

grown up isn’t all fun. What if Molly has to 

eat olives and spicy spicy sauce? And what 

about having to go to work? 

Helmsley Arts Centre 

Helmsley, York, YO62 5DW 

www.helmsleyarts.co.uk 


A Regular Little Houdini 

An enchanting story that blurs the lines 

between childhood imagination and the 

cynicism of adulthood. An extraordinary 

tale of hope, determination & magic! 


The Tinderbox 

A roguish soldier acquires a magic 

tinderbox which gives him the power to 

summon three extraordinary dogs to do his 

bidding. Watch the soldier’s remarkable 

roller coaster adventure from rags to riches 

and back again! Will he survive and win 

the love of the beautiful princess? 

30 March – 2 April 

1812 Youth Theatre - Bugsy 

Malone 

1920’s Chicago come to Helmsley, 

complete with speak-easies, gangsters 

and of course splurge! Join Bugsy, Blousey 

and Tallulah for a rip roaring evening’s 

entertainment for all the family. - See 

more at: http://www.helmsleyarts.co.uk/ 

whats-on/1812-youth-theatre-bugsymalone#sthash.fB45n0W7.dpuf 

Hull City Hall 

Queen Victoria Square, Hull, HU1 

3RQ 

www.hcandl.co.uk/hullcityhall 

4 March 

Justin’s Party 

JUSTIN’S PARTY is brand new show which is 

packed full of fantastic songs, dances and 

hilarious games guaranteed to make it THE 

party of the year! So what are you waiting 

for? Get your party clothes ready and come 

and join in with this very exciting funtastic 

celebration! 


BOX OFFICE 

office 

Hull Marina 

Humber Dock Street, Hull, HU1 1TB 


26-27 March 

The Lion and The Geisha 

An eclectic display of Japanese Kabuki, 

The Lion Dance and traditional Geisha 

dance accompanied by recorded Japanese 

music and a voice over of the history and 

significance behind each performance piece. 

Be prepared for the very best costumes and 

soundtrack! 

Hull Truck Theatre 

50 Ferensway, Hull, HU2 8LB 

www.hulltruck.co.uk 


Mouth Open, Story Jump Out 

Polarbear makes things up; stories, jokes, 

adventures – a master maker-upper. But 

where did it all begin? 

25 Feb – 25 March 

Finlay McGuigan’s Great Adventures 

in Storyland 

Finlay McGuigan loves stories. He enjoys 

diving in to the depths of his imagination, 

making friends and going on exciting 

adventures. But he knows so many stories 

that he’s got himself in a muddle, and he 

needs you to help him unravel the mess! 

Joseph Rowntree 

Theatre 

Haxby Road, York, YO31 8TA 

www.josephrowntreetheatre. 

co.uk 


Anything Goes 

This classic musical will be brought to 

life by The University of York’s Central 

Hall Musical Society with sensational 

energy (and plenty of tap dancing) by 

a cast of 40 talented students, many of 

whom hope to pursue a career in musical 

theatre after graduating. Catch them at 

the Rowntree before you see them in 

the West End! 

5 March 

Music Night presents “Stars of 

the Future” 

Talented young musicians and singers 

from the York musical theatre scene 

take over the stage and perform popular 

songs from the shows and some modern 

pop classics. Regular Musical Director Don 

Pears will lead the live band, introduce 

the performers (and try to keep order). 

Think Lion King, West Side Story, Mamma 

Mia, Frozen and many, many more...! 

21-25 March 

Annie 

Leapin’ Lizards! Annie is the extraordinary 

fairytale story of the little American orphan, 

rescued from her hard-knock life in a New 

York orphanage and the clutches of the 

evil Miss Hannigan, and taken to a world of 

top-dollar and big bucks in the mansion of 

billionaire Oliver Warbucks. 

Junction Goole 

Paradise Place, Goole, DN14 5DL 

www.junctiongoole.co.uk 


Compagnie Animotion: 

Musicians of Bremen 

French company, Compagnie Animotion are 

back in the UK with their spectacular version 

of Grimm’s The Musicians of Bremen. This 

visually stunning adaptation tells the tale of 

four animals put out to pasture; a donkey, 

a cat, a cockerel and a dog. With puppetry, 

movement and trapeze, all accompanied by 

live music. 

18 March 

Goldilocks & the Three Bears 

Goldilocks & the Three Bears is the perfect 

opportunity for your little ones to enjoy 

live ballet, music and theatre. With a family 

of friendly bears, a beautiful blue bird and 

bowls of delicious porridge, this ballet is 

just right! 

31 March 

Aaaaaaaaagh! Dinosaurs! 

Multi award winning poet Dominic Berry, 

aka Dommy B (CBeebies, BBC3) presents 

Aaaaaaaaaaaaagh! Dinosaurs!, a fun, 

engaging and hilarious poetry show for 

children and families. 

Scarborough Spa 

South Bay, Scarborough, YO11 2HD 

www.scarboroughspa.co.uk 


Magic Mike’s Pirate 

Adventure 

Join Magic Mike, Captain Cus-Tard, Pirate Ria 

& the ship’s crew in a hilarious adventure 

for the whole family! Magic, comedy, 

dancing, lots of audience participation & 

swashbuckling fun! Pirates at the ready! 

Shipmates required! Please come along in 

your pirate costumes! 

31 March 

Paul Carroll’s Music Hall 

Tavern 

The UK’s premier comedy family drag variety 

show is back with A Brand New Fabulous 

Show for 2017! Whatever your age, come 

along and join Mrs T and the “girls” from 

MHT this Spring for a truly magnificent night 

of dazzling costumes, side splitting laughter 

and a cast of unique characters singing and 

dancing all night long. 

Stephen Joseph 

Theatre 

Westborough, Scarborough, YO11 1JW 


4 March 

Charlie and The Light Fantastic 

Charlie is a clever kid - so clever he’s invented 

the most advanced, most super duper, most 

hi-tec, amazing spaceship ever built so that 

he and Elwood (his also very clever cat) can 

have exciting adventures, with just a little 

bit of danger thrown in. Join them as they 

explore the galaxies in search of new friends. 

The Royal Hall 

Ripon Road, Harrogate, HG1 2RD 

www.hicyorkshire.co.uk/the-royal-hall 

3 March 

Kids in the Limelight 

Yes, it’s Kids Aloud time again, our 5th 

biennial concert featuring a massed choir of 

250 pupils from the Harrogate District. They 

come together to sing in the prestigious 

Royal Hall and create a night of joyous and 

passionate singing; a memory which remains 

with them and their families forever! 

Winifred Holtby 

Academy 

Midmere Avenue, Hull, HU7 4PW 



The Story of Mr. B 

A surprise-filled puppet show where trees 

play, mushrooms talk and the sun sings. 

Eventually Mr Bumblegrum realises he wants 

friendship again. Will you help him to blow 

away the clouds? Will you be his friend? 

York Theatre Royal 

St. Leonard’s Place, York, YO1 7HD 

www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk 

17-18 March 

A Pocketful of Grimms 

Let the magical Storyteller whisk you away to 

a land of fables to explore some of the world’s 

favourite fairy tales. Featuring glorious 

retellings of Hansel and Gretel, Beauty and 

the Beast, Rumpelstiltskin and more. 

20 



COMPETITIONS 

WIN! 

an Angry Birds or an Indoor 

Soft Play Birthday Party at 

Lightwater Valley T heme Park 

WIN! 

a ticket for 4 people to 

The York Dungeon 

The York Dungeon is a 75-minute journey into more than 2000 years 

of York’s horrible history. 

It’s hilarious fun and it’s sometimes a bit scary. You will laugh and 

scream, you will love it. 

For your chance to win just answer this question; 

Who is the infamous highwayman you’ll hear 

about in the dungeon? 

We are giving Primary Times readers the chance to win an Angry Birds 

or Indoor Soft Play Birthday Party at Lightwater Valley Theme Park for 

up to 10 guests. This fantastic party prize includes: Use of the indoor 

and outdoor interactive Angry Birds parks or Indoor Soft Play; Party 

food for up to 10 guests; Birthday balloons; Birthday Cake. To win this 

fantastic prize all you have to do is answer the following question: 

What date does Lightwater Valley Theme Park 

open for the 2017 season? 

A) 1st March B) 1st April C) 1st May 

Enter online at www.primarytimes.net/nyorks/competitions 

OR through www.facebook.com/ptnyorks 

Closing Date: 06/03/17 

Terms & Conditions. 

Prize valid from 1st April 2017 – 5th November 2017 (on days when the theme 

park is open). Party to start at 3.30pm. Exclusive use of Angry Bird Park is 

not guaranteed. Party bags available for an additional cost. All parents of party 

guests must sign a model release form and be willing for photographic images 

to be taken and used for marketing purposes. 

Please telephone 01765 635321 or email leisure@lightwatervalley. 




WIN! 

Tickets to February frolics at 

Piglets Adventure Farm 

Oink Oink! Piglets Adventure Farm is opening for February half term (18th 

– 26th February) and we’ve got tickets to give away. 

With loads of undercover fun including Lambing Live (if you’re lucky you 

might even see one being born), The Sheep Show live stage show, tractor 

trailer rides, animal petting barn with Piglet Maternity Ward and lots more, 

it’s a great day out for all the family. 

Plus, with the NEW Bale Play Baaarn including straw bale mountain, junior 

tractor drivers’ area, giant drop slide, rope swing and dig’n’play, there’s so 

much fun to be had. 

For your chance to win 2 Adult & 2 Child tickets to February Frolics, all you 

have to do is answer this simply question: 

Where is the Straw Bale Mountain? 

A) Piglet Maternity Ward B) New Bale Play Baaarn 

C) Truffles Trough 




Terms & Conditions: Winning entries will be drawn by the Primary Times team. Not to 

be used in conjunction with any other offer including party or group discounts. No cash 

alternative is available. Tickets are valid until Sunday, 26th February 2017. 

22

Primary Times North & East Yorkshire Feb 17

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