PTNL_Spring17

What’s On Where FOR FAMILIES AND SCHOOLS 

www.primarytimes.net 

North London 

DOGS DON’T DO BALLET 

The smash hit Dogs Don’t Do Ballet 

returns to Little Angel Theatre 

opening on the 22nd April 

Box Office: 

020 7226 1787 

Little Angel Theatre 

14 Dagmar Passage 

London N1 2DN 

PARENTING • EDUCATION • DAYS OUT • NEWS & REVIEWS 

EASTER ISSUE 2017 NO.97 

20 MARCH – 15 MAY

2 Primary Times SPRING 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/north_london

Dear Reader 

Welcome to our Spring 2017 issue – packed full of fantastic 

ideas of things to do with your children during the Easter 

holidays and beyond. 

The weather is warming up nicely, the spring flowers and 

blossom have introduced vibrant colours back into our lives 

and the Easter holidays are just around the corner. To help you 

plan for the holidays we have put together some ideas for 

Easter Family Fun along with our WOW listings where 

you are sure to find something to please everyone. 

Our regular Box Office feature offers some fantastic 

productions across the region that are perfectly 

suitable for primary aged children. The English National 

Ballet School are putting on a “My First Ballet” production 

of Cinderella – a lovely way to introduce your children to this 

beautiful form of theatre, we have a competition to win tickets 

for this wonderful production on page 15. Enter our competition 

on page 4 to win a place at a Barracudas day camp this summer. 

We hope you have an action packed Spring and that you find 

lots of things to do on the following pages that will help! 

Have an Egg-citing time! 

Don’t forget to 

visit us online at 

www. primarytimes.net 

/north_london 

Contents 

16 

12 

4 WOW 

12 Easter Family Fun 

16 To go or not to go 

18 Box Office 

20 Pinboard 

22 Focus on Education 

23 Loopy Library 

22 

CALLING ALL 

FAMILIES 

AND TEACHERS! 

Remember to send in your 

news for our news pages – 

we would love to hear 

from you! 

CONTENTS 

With very best wishes from 

Marion, Frances, Tina, Sue & Catherine 

THE PRIMARY TIMES TEAM 

Editor: 

Marion McAdam 

marion@schoolspublishing.co.uk 

Sales: 

Frances Elster 

ptnl@schoolspublishing.co.uk 

Tel: 0207 748 2214 

Tina Mayberry 

ptnotts@schoolspublishing.co.uk 

Tel: 01491 411848 

Production: 

Sue Douglas 

ptproduction@schoolspublishing.co.uk 

Design: 

Catherine Crook 

Primary Times in North London, 

Schools Publishing Limited 

Unit 1A, Thamesview Industrial Estate 

Newtown Road 

Henley on Thames RG9 1HG. 

Tel: 01491 411848 Fax: 01491 411416 

www.primarytimes.net/north_london 

...the UK’s biggest, 

free ‘what’s on’ 

magazine for parents! 

Primary Times in North 

London distributes more 

than 52,000 copies 

seven times a year, and is 

part of a national network 

distributing more than 2.7 

million copies in 59 regions 

across the UK and Ireland. 

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

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

and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents 

or by joining 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 interests of young children. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in North 

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www.primarytimes.net/north_london | SPRING 2017 Primary Times 3

WHAT’S ON WHERE 

ONGOING 

Daily 

Treasures of the British Library 

The British Library, NW1 2DB 

Exhibition. The world’s most beautiful and influential 

books and documents, from Codex Sinaiticus to the Beatles. 

Free. For more information visit www.bl.uk 

4D Theatre 

RAF Museum, Colindale, NW9 5LL 

If you have ever wondered how it actually feels to soar 

amongst the clouds or participate in an intense aerial battle 

wonder no more. You can now experience all the thrills of a 

powered flight by entering the 4D Theatre. Ages 4+. 

For more information and times visit 

www.rafmuseum.org.uk 

First World War in the Air 


The compelling story of the First World War in the Air has 

been revealed in a new exhibition in the Claude Grahame- 

White Hangar. For times and more information and visit 

www.rafmuseum.org.uk 

Judaism: A Living Faith 

Jewish Museum, Camden Town, NW1 7NB 

An exhibition of a collection of rare and beautiful 

ceremonial art objects. The gallery explores Jewish religious 

practice and traditions in the home and synagogue, using 

multimedia and hands-on displays to engage visitors. For 

more information visit www.jewishmuseum.org.uk 

Every Tues (Term Time only) 

Young Farmers Club 

Belmont Farm, Mill Hill, NW7 1QT 

4-5pm. There are lots of new and exciting activities and 

We check 

listings carefully but 

details and prices may 

be subject to change. 

Please always check 

with the venue. 

sessions planned for all mini farmers that would 

like to experience what it is like to work on a real 

farm with real farm animals. Charges apply. 

For more information and to sign up email 

info@belmontfarm.co.uk 

Every Wed (Term Time only) 

Young Illustrator 

Pickled Pepper Books, Crouch End, N8 8PL 

4-4.45pm 7-9 years, 5-5.45pm 9-12 years. Do you love 

drawing and stories? Go along to do exactly that at this 

illustration workshop for budding young artists. To reserve 

a place email info@pickledpepperbooks.co.uk. For more 

information visit www.pickledpepperbooks.co.uk 

Every Wed and Sun 

Pottery Classes 

Hackney City Farm, E2 8QA 

2-4pm Wed, 11am-1pm and 2-4pm on Sun. Children’s 

pottery sessions are run on a drop in basis and there is no 

need to book. When you are done why not explore the 

farm and meet all the animals. Charges apply. For more 

information visit www.hackneycityfarm.co.uk 

Every Sat 

The Mini Farmers Club 

Hackney City Farm, E2 8QA 

10.30am-12.30pm. A great way for younger kids to learn 

about nature, make arts and crafts and get to know the 

animals, under the careful supervision of the livestock 

worker. Ages 8-17. Free sessions. Book on 020 7729 6381. For 

more information visit www.hackneycityfarm.co.uk 

Framed Film Club 

Barbican Centre, EC2Y 8DS 

Family audiences can enjoy the latest and greatest films from 

all over the world, including special shorts programmes. On 

the last Sat of every month young audience members can 

explore film through all of the art forms with high-quality 

participatory arts activities. To book visit 

www.barbican.org.uk 

Saturday Drop In 

Rose Bowl Centre, Islington, N1 2PT 

2-4pm. Tinker with your bike, try out some photography, 

play in the garden and grab a cup of tea and a chat with 

the team. Activities are open to all ages. Children must 

be accompanied by their parents or carers. Free. For more 

information visit www.rosebowlislington.org.uk 

Every Sat and Sun 

Pony Rides 

Kentish Town City Farm, NW5 4BN 

1.30pm (Weather permitting). Enjoy a pony ride at the 

farm, a great opportunity for children to get on a horse. 

There are also other animals to visit. Please call on the day 

to make sure that pony rides will definitely take place. 

Ages 4+. Charges apply. For more information visit 

ktcityfarm.org.uk 

Every Sun 

Farmers Market 

Alexandra Palace, N22 7AY 

10am-3pm. North London’s famous Farmers Market at Ally 

Pally takes place most Sundays near Muswell Hill entrance 

to the park with free parking. Fantastic local produce. Lots 

of fun for the whole family. For more information visit 

www.alexandrapalace.com 

Family Activities 

Bruce Castle Museum, Tottenham, N17 8NU 

2-4pm. Drop-in Sundays; family art and craft activities. 

All children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. No 

adult admitted without an accompanying child. Ages 5-13. 

Free event. For more information visit 

www.haringey.gov.uk 

Family Sundays: Art Workshop 

National Gallery, WC2N 5DN 

11am and 2pm. All sessions are free and all materials 

are provided. Workshops and drawing sessions. Meet in 

the Pigott Education Centre Foyer. Ages 5-11. For more 

information and to book visit 

www.nationalgallery.org.uk 

Sunday Family Workshops 

Parasol Unit, Islington, N1 7RW 

2.30-4pm. Lots of fun in these workshops which are linked 

to the current exhibitions. There will also be storytelling and 

much more. Ages 5-15. For more information and to book 

visit www.parasol-unit.org 

Until 13 Apr 

Life in the Medieval Palace 

Tower of London, EC3N 4AB 

11am-12.30pm and 1.30-3.30pm. Step back into 

1299 and the palace of King Edward I, Hammer of 

the Scots. Travel back in time to a world of chivalrous 

knights and beautiful ladies, troublesome lords and 

royal prisoners. For more information visit 

www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london 


www.primarytimes.net/north_london | SPRING 2017 Primary Times 5 

WHAT’S ON WHERE


Until 17 Apr 

Fire! Fire! 

Museum of London, EC2Y 5HN 

Discover London before, during and after the Great Fire 

of 1666 in an interactive exhibition marking the 350th 

anniversary of this infamous disaster. For more information 

and to buy tickets visit www.museumoflondon.org.uk 

Until 23 Apr 

Board Games Rediscovered 

V&A Museum of Childhood, 

Bethnal Green, E2 9PA 

This exhibition will include some of the most iconic, 

enthralling and visually striking games from the V&A’s 

outstanding national collection of board games, including 

family favourites such as Cluedo and Trivial Pursuit plus many, 

many more. For more information visit 

www.vam.ac.uk/moc 

MARCH 

Mon 20 – Sun 26 Mar 

The Giant Wiggle, Nationwide 

Children’s groups, schools, libraries, and friends and family 

across the UK hold Giant Wiggle events of every size, taking 

part in lots of fun activities including storytelling, arts and 

crafts and a caterpillar conga line, to help raise vital funds for 

disadvantaged children. To sign up for your free fundraising 

and activity pack visit www.actionforchildren.org.uk 

Tues 21 Mar 

Academy Tots 

Royal Academy of Music, NW1 5HT 

10am. Set in the inspiring Piano Gallery at the Academy’s 

Museum, have fun discovering instruments and explore 

making music as a group. Ages 3-5. For more information 

and to book visit www.ram.ac.uk 

Wed 22 Mar 

The Secret Life of John Wesley 

John Wesley’s House, EC1Y 1AU 

11am-3pm. Find out how people lived in 18th century 

London by speaking to the re-enactors inside the house. 

There’ll be baking in the kitchen, Wesley will be in his study 

and Betsy the Housekeeper will tell you all about life here. 

Free admission. For more information visit 

www.wesleysheritage.org.uk 

Fri 24 Mar 

Red Nose Day 2017, Nationwide 

Do something funny for money at home, school or work 

to help raise vital funds for people living tough lives across 

the UK and Africa. For fundraising ideas, to sign up for your 

fundraising kit and to donate visit www.comicrelief.com 

Comic Relief Night Live, 

Lee Valley White Water Centre, 

Waltham Cross, EN9 1AB 

From 7pm. Friday Night Live is celebrating Comic Relief, 

so join in a night of music, laughter and drinks - all 

for a great cause. For more information visit 

www.gowhitewater.co.uk 

Fri 24 Mar – Sun 9 Apr 

Ideal Home Show 

Olympia London, W14 8UX 

Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 10am-5pm. The UK’s biggest 

home event is packed to the brim with ideas, advice and 

products. For more information and to buy tickets visit 

www.olympia.london 

Sat 25 Mar 

Play on Words 

The British Library, St Pancras, NW1 2DB 

10.30am-12noon and 1-2.30pm. Join artists Meera Chauda 

and Helen Rousseau to play with words and performance in 

this creative family workshop. Ages 5-11. Free event. Drop in 

places are limited to 40 people per workshop on a first come, 

first served basis. For more information visit www.bl.uk 

DIY Mothers’ Day Cards 

Victoria Park, E3 5TB 

12noon-3pm. Spoil your Mum this Mothers’ Day by joining 

the Community Park Rangers to make her an extra special 

Mothers’ Day Card. Meet at The Hub Building. For more 

information visit www.towerhamlets.gov.uk 

Earth Hour, Nationwide 

8.30-9.30pm. WWF is calling for everyone to sign up and 

take part in Earth Hour - an annual global demonstration 

where millions around the world switch off their lights for 

one hour to show they care about the future of our planet 

and to call for action on climate change. To sign up visit 

www.wwf.org.uk/earthhour 

Explore Zoology 

Grant Museum of Zoology, WC1E 6DE 

1-4pm. Ever wondered how heavy an elephant tusk is 

or how sharp a shark’s tooth is? Find out in these family 

hands-on specimen based activities. Enthusiastic museum 

educators will be on hand to answer any questions you 

may have. Free, drop in event. For more information visit 

www.ucl.ac.uk 

Children’s Magic Workshop 

Museum of Comedy, Bloomsbury Way, WC1A 2SR 

1.30pm. The workshop is designed to be interactive and 

fun, taught by a top Magic Circle London magician, covering 

simple sleight of hand and the basic fundamentals of magic. 

Ages 7-13. Charges apply. For more information and to book 

visit www.museumofcomedy.com 

Sat 25 – Sun 26 Mar 

The London Festival of 

Railway Modelling 

Alexandra Palace, Wood Green, N22 7AY 

10am-5pm, Sat and 10am-4.30pm Sun. With 40+ 

hand-picked layouts from around the globe on display, for 

all railway enthusiasts - this is one show you won’t want to 

miss. For more information and to buy tickets visit 


Magical Museum Sleepover 

V&A Museum of Childhood, Bethnal Green, E2 9PA 

7pm-9am. Cast spells, make magical beasts come to 

life, take part in a twilight museum trail and storytelling 

and then enjoy a special night’s sleep in the company of 

fairies, puppets, dolls and trains. Inc. breakfast and a top 

secret exclusive performance on the next day. For more 

information and to book visit www.vam.ac.uk/moc 

Sun 26 Mar 

Kenwood Stories 

Kenwood House, Hampstead, NW3 7JR 

12.30pm, 2pm and 3pm. The art collections and stories 

of Kenwood come alive through narrative and live 

interpretation as told by Kenwood volunteers. Free event. 

For more information visit 

www.english-heritage.org.uk/kenwood 

Mothers’ Day Afternoon Tea 



Let hardworking mum relax on her special day and 

indulge in warmed scones, jam and cream, a selection of 

delicate sandwiches and mini cakes – topped off with that 

obligatory cuppa. For more information and to book visit 


Mothers’ Day 

Lee Valley Park Farms, Waltham Abbey, EN9 2EF 

10am-5pm. Families can enjoy a host of fun activities, 

including the chance to meet some of the farm’s 300 furry 

and feathered friends and the opportunity to take a ride on 

Tex the Tractor to a working dairy farm. Mums go free. For 

more information and to buy tickets visit 

www.lvfarms.co.uk 

Museum Open Day 

Whitewebbs Museum of Transport, EN2 9HW 

10am-4pm. Located in a beautiful red-brick Victorian 

pumping station, the museum is home to an impressive 

collection of old vehicles, including fire engines, motorbikes, 

vintage delivery vans, classic cars and a model railway. 

There will also be a visit from the Jaguar Drivers Club. 

Charges apply. For more information visit 

www.enfieldfestivals.co.uk 

Objects in Focus 

The View from The Shard, SE1 9SG 

10.30am-4pm. Join in a complimentary object-handling 

session, run by the Museum of London. See and touch 

artefacts discovered on the foreshore of the River Thames 

and archaeological finds from the London 2012 Olympic site. 

To buy tickets visit www.theviewfromtheshard.com 

Let’s Get Quizzical! 

British Museum, WC1B 3DG 

11am-4pm. Compete against your family by playing Kahoot 

quizzes about the Museum and its objects, then explore and 

create your own. A passport, national ID or driver’s licence 

is required as a deposit. Ages 7+. For more information visit 

www.britishmuseum.org 

Thurs 30 Mar 

Little Swifts 


10.30-11.30am. Join in this fun and lively session for 

children aged 2-5, which includes arts and crafts, games, 

stories and songs. Each session is linked to the amazing 

collection and helps bring the Museum to life. Charges apply. 

To book email learning-london@rafmuseum.org. For more 

information visit www.rafmuseum.org.uk/london 

Fri 31 Mar 

Wear a Hat Day, Nationwide 

Wear a Hat Day takes place every March during Brain Tumour 

Awareness month to raise funds and awareness for this 

disease. Schools, workplaces and individuals take part by 

donning crazy headgear. Register now to start planning your 

event. For more information visit www.wearahatday.org 

APRIL 

Sat 1 Apr 

Fairytales & Fantasy 

Southgate (The Bourne) 

Methodist Church, N14 6RS 

7.30pm. Southgate Symphony Orchestra presents a 

programme of lighter music which will appeal to musiclovers 

of all ages. The concert will open with “A Children’s 

Overture” by Roger Quilter and “Three Bears Phantasy” by 

Eric Coates. Tuba soloist Roland Marshall and narrator Sue 

Jeffreys will then perform the musical story of “Tubby the 

Tuba” and conclude with Elgar’s “The Wand of Youth” Suites 

1 & 2. For more information and to book visit 

www.SymphonyOrchestra.co.uk 

What is in a Book? 

The British Library, St Pancras, NW1 2DB 

12noon-4pm. Explore, learn and create in fun workshops 

inspired by the vast collections. Illustrate your very own book 

cover, create and perform with puppets and be transported 

through storytelling to real and imagined places. Expect time 

travel and imaginative play, as well as epic titles, dramatic 

endings and everything in-between. Free, drop in. For more 

information visit www.bl.uk 

Lee Valley FootGolf Open 

Lee Valley Leisure Complex, Edmonton, N9 0AR 

From 12noon. This fast growing, fun sport is a fusion of 

football and golf and is great for players of any ability to get 

involved in. See if you can beat the best and hit the holes in 

fewer shots than the rest. For more information and to book 

visit www.visitleevalley.org.uk 

Great Court Games 


11am-4pm. Visit the Great Court with your family to play 

digital games, solve challenges and explore trails that will 

lead you to unexpected places in the Museum. A passport, 

national ID or driver’s licence is required as a deposit. 

Ages 5+. For more information visit 


Sat 1 – Sun 2 Apr 

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny 

Wyevale Garden Centre, Enfield, EN2 9DX 

10am. Hop along to meet the Easter Bunny for an eggcellent 

breakfast. Ticket price includes: a cuddly toy gift, Easter 

cookie decorating, a bunny hunt and a fun activitiy sheet. 

Ages 3-8. For more information and to buy tickets visit 

www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk 

Family Saturdays 

The Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace, SW1W 1QH 

11am-3pm. Join in the fun in the Learning Room and design 

your theatre stage inspired by your visit. Choose different 

carriages and horses to create your own little play. 

Free with admission ticket. For more information visit 

www.royalcollection.org.uk 

Sat 1 – Mon 3 Apr 

Archaeology Secrets 


12.30pm and 2.30pm. Discover more about everyday objects 

that were lost in the Great Fire and make your own out of clay. 

Free, drop in event. For more information visit 

www.museumoflondon.org.uk 

Sat 1 – Thurs 6 Apr 

The Very Hungry Caterpillar 

Craft Workshop 

Artsdepot, North Finchley, N12 0GA 

10am and 1pm. Join an artsde pot artist as they show you 

how to make puppets inspired by the production of The Very 

Hungry Caterpillar Show. Recommended for ages 3+. For 

more information and to book visit www.artsdepot.co.uk 

Dear Zoo 

ZSL London Zoo, Regent’s Park, NW1 4RY 

To celebrate 35 years since the publication of this much-loved 

children’s storybook, kids of all ages are invited to enter the 

Dear Zoo story and embark on an interactive trail of the Zoo, 

collecting stamps, exploring the storytelling hub and lots 

more. To buy tickets visit www.zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo 

Easter Funfair 

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, E20 3AB 

12noon-9pm. Whether it be the Dodgems, Rollercoasters or a 

carousel, George Irvin’s Ultimate funfair will have something 

for everyone to enjoy as it takes over Stratford Waterfront for 

two weeks. Charges apply. For more information visit 

www.queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk 


How to Train your Dragon Egg Hunt 

Shrek’s Adventure! London, 

County Hall, SE1 7PB 

Egg Hunts are getting an ‘egg-xtreme’ upgrade this Easter! 

Visitors to the London attraction will be challenged with 

a very special egg hunt as they search for rare Dragon 

specimens during their tour of Far Far Away. For more 

information and to buy tickets visit 

www.shreksadventure.com 

Sun 2 Apr 

International Children’s Book Day 

Keats House, Hampstead, NW3 2RR 

1-4pm (stories at 2pm and 3pm). Make a book to celebrate 

International Children’s Book Day, and create your own story 

to fill the pages. You’ll also have the chance to hear some 

well-loved children’s stories, listen out for your favourite. 

Free, drop in event. For more information visit 

www.cityoflondon.gov.uk 

The Little Draw 

The Wallace Collection, 

Manchester Square, W1U 3BN 

1.30-4pm. Meet new Little Draw artist Niamh Aherne. 

Niamh is an Educator, an Artist and an Illustrator with a 

playful approach to the History of Art and an interest in 

storytelling through experimentation using various materials. 

Free drop-in drawing workshop for all ages and abilities. For 

more information visit www.wallacecollection.org 

Festival of the Mind 

JW3, Finchley Road, NW3 6ET 

2pm. Enjoy making your very own brain puzzles. Ages 2+. 

For more information and to book visit www.jw3.org.uk 

Outrageous Outfits 


11am-12.30pm and 2-3.30pm. Explore the amazing clothes 

painted in Van Dyck’s portraits and sculpt your own style 

sensation. Ages 5-11. For more information and to book visit 


Billy’s Band Family Concert 

Cadogan Hall, Chelsea, SW1X 9DQ 

11.30am. An exciting mix of classical repertoire presented 

by Dan Newell, the Tippett Quartet and friends. Pre-concert 

activities from 10.45am based on the Billy’s Band books by 

Dan Newell. For more information and to book visit 

www.cadoganhall.com 



WHAT’S ON WHERE


The Cancer Research UK Oxford and 

Cambridge Boat Races 

Various Locations 

4.35pm and 5.35pm. Watched by thousands along the 

banks of the Tideway, between Putney and Mortlake in 

London, and by millions more on TV, The Cancer Research 

UK Boat Races are a unique sporting event between two 

rowing crews from Oxford and Cambridge universities. For 

more information visit www.theboatraces.org 

Discover Digital Music 


11am-4pm. Be inspired by Museum objects from across 

the world. Hear the sounds of instruments in the collection, 

discover music in unexpected places and create your 

own using innovative technologies. Ages 5+. For more 

information visit www.britishmuseum.org 

Easter Animal 


12.20-1.30pm. Join in on a journey through the collection 

where you will walk, talk and bring paintings alive. 

This month’s theme is: Easter animals. Free. For more 

information visit www.nationalgallery.org.uk 

A Walk in the Park 

River Lee Country Park, Cheshunt, EN8 9AJ 

10.30am-12.30pm. Embark on a journey to celebrate the 

spring during a leisurely paced walk across the beautiful 

River Lee Country Park. Meet at Pindar car park. Free. For 

more information visit www.visitleevalley.org.uk 

Pedal Up Pump! 

Lee Valley VeloPark, Queen Elizabeth Olympic 

Park, E20 3AB 

(Also 4, 7, 8 and 11 Apr) These sessions will help young 

riders stand confidently on the pedals and learn how 

to negotiate the pump track safely, along with key bike 

handling techniques. Ages 7-12. For more information and 

to book visit www.visitleevalley.org.uk/velopark 

Sun 2 – Mon 17 Apr 

Easter Baby Boom 

Lee Valley Park Farms, Waltham Abbey, EN9 2EF 

10am-5pm. With the usual fun filled activities, various 

informative talks on the new arrivals, indoor and outdoor 

play areas and tractor and trailer rides to the Hollyfield dairy 

farm, this is a great day out for all the family. Admission 

charges apply. For more information and to book visit 

www.visitleevalley.org.uk 

Mon 3 Apr 

The Myth of St Paul’s 


(Also 7 and 10 Apr) 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. Discover ancient 

myths about St Paul’s cathedral together as a family at this 

interactive storytelling session. Free, drop in event. For 

more information visit 


Mon 3 – Thurs 6 Apr 

Easter Puppet Passport Puppet 

Making Workshops 

Little Angel Theatre, Islington, N1 0ST 

10am-4pm. You will be transported around the world of 

international puppetry, finding out about the puppet styles 

they have there and then, make your own. Ages 5-11. For 

more information and to book visit 

www.littleangeltheatre.com 

Mon 3 – Fri 7 Apr 

Easter Shed 

Chickenshed, Southgate, N14 4PE 

10am-4pm. Participants at this brilliant week-long event 

will explore and develop a wide range of performance skills 

through workshops that involve drama, dance, singing and 

story-making. Parents and friends will be invited in on the 

final afternoon to see a performance that has been devised 

throughout the week. Ages 5-11. For more information and 

to book visit www.chickenshed.org.uk 

The Princess in the Sky 

Islington Arts Factory, N7 0SF 

11am-3pm. Explore the Japanese myth of the Princess in 

the Sky as you find out what it’s like being a member of a 

dance company. Do a class in the morning and rehearse in 

the afternoon, develop your character, learn choreography, 

have a costume fitting and present a magical performance 

at the end of the week. Book on 020 7607 0561. For more 

information visit www.islingtonartsfactory.org 

Visit www.geffrye-museum.org.uk 

Easter Bunny 

Islington Arts Factory, N7 0SF 

11am-3pm. Work as a team to create a giant Easter Bunny 

sculpture. Your ideas will combine to inspire a surreal vision 

of this traditional Easter visitor. Book on 020 7607 0561. For 

more information visit www.islingtonartsfactory.org 

My Miniature Room Workshop 

V&A Museum of Childhood, B 

ethnal Green, E2 9PA 

11am, 12noon, 2pm and 3.30pm. Make a miniature model 

home. Add imaginary furniture, toys, characters from the 

past, amongst things you own today. A fun, creative family 

workshop with artist Amy Brown. Ages 4+. Charges apply. 

For more information visit www.vam.ac.uk/moc 

Mon 3 – Thurs 13 Apr 

Chicks’ Great EGGscape 

Bank of England Museum, EC2R 8AH 

10am-4.30pm. Join the hunt to find the hidden chicks 

and golden egg by following the trail around the Museum 

and then decorate an Easter animal mask or finger 

puppet to take home. There’s a chocolate egg for every 

child. Free. For more information visit 

www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum 


Memory, Home and Family 


11am-4pm. Visit the Museum and take part in workshops 

and activities inspired by the Searching for Ghosts exhibition. 

Drop in event for all ages. For more information visit 


SUP and Canoeing 



10am-3pm. Spend your time off during the holidays on the 

water. Grab a Stand Up Paddle board or canoe with friends 

and family. These 1 hour active sessions are perfect active 

time spent for all kids and adults. For more information and 

to book visit www.gowhitewater.co.uk 

Tues 4 Apr 

Layers Deep 


(Also 6-7 and 16 Apr) 12noon and 2pm. Handle objects 

from London’s history and discover the stories they tell 

archaeologists at this free session. For more information visit 


American Road Trip 

Royal Academy of Arts, Piccadilly, W1J 0DB 

(Also 11 Apr) 10.15am-1pm. Go on an American road trip 

with us through the paintings of ‘America After the Fall: 

Painting in the 1930s’, at this workshop led by experienced 

artist educators. Charges apply. Ages 5+. For more 


www.royalacademy.org.uk 

Crazy Clayation Workshop 

The Cartoon Museum, WC1A 2HH 

11am-3.30pm. Spend the day with professional animator 

Reza Ben Gajra and create a short film using characters made 

from modelling clay. You can watch the results next week 

on the museum’s YouTube channel. Ages 8-12. For more 


www.cartoonmuseumshop.org 

Play Photography 

The Foundling Museum, WC1N 1AZ 

10.30am-12noon, 1-2.30pm and 3-4.30pm. Build an 

imaginative play area in this artist-led family workshop 

inspired by Child’s Play. Families will then be photographed 

playing within their newly created space. Ages 5+. Sign up 

on the day. For more information visit 

www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk 

Photo: Morley Von Sternberg 

Instrumental Inventions 

Benjamin Franklin House, WC2N 5NF 

11am-12.30pm. Franklin was a prolific inventor and a lover 

of music. He invented the Glass Armonica. Join in to explore 

how and create your own instruments to take home. Ages 

5-11. Donations welcome. To book email 

education@benjaminfranklinhouse.org 

BMX Thrills and MTB Skills 

Lee Valley VeloPark, Queen Elizabeth 

Olympic Park, E20 3AB (Also 6 and 13 Apr) 10am. This 

ultimate BMX and Mountain bike session allows children 

between the ages of 7-11 to improve their skills, learn new 

techniques and gain confidence in two different cycling 

disciplines. For more information visit 

www.visitleevalley.org.uk/velopark 

Tues 4 – Wed 5 Apr 

Easter Quest and Craft 


12noon-4pm. Get your creative juices flowing at Kenwood 

this Easter as you get crafty and make something great to 

take home. Tickets will be available to purchase at the event 

site on the day. Charges apply. For more information visit 


Tues 4 – Thurs 6 Apr 

Hatching Out 


11am-1pm and 2-4pm. Become a botanical explorer 

and create your own mini-environments inspired by the 

natural worlds and symbols in paintings. Free. For more 


Wed 5 Apr 

Puppet Tales JW3, Finchley Road, NW3 6ET 

3pm and 4.15pm. Enjoy a magical afternoon with Tiger 

Boat Theatre, full of stories, fun and handmade puppets 

designed especially for each session. Ages 2½-6. Charges 

apply. For more information and to book visit 

www.jw3.org.uk 

Build-in-blocks 


10.30am-12.30pm and 1.30-3.30pm. Build your own 

utopian learning haven with Lego at this family workshop. 

Ages 3+. Free. No booking required. For more information 

visit www.royalacademy.org.uk 

Easter ‘Eggspert’ Family 

Orienteering Competition 

Waltham Abbey Gardens, EN9 1XQ 

1-3pm. Go along with your family and take 

part in an orienteering competition with a 

difference. All participants receive a certificate 

with the winning team receiving certificates and prizes. 

For more information and to book visit 


Transform National Portrait Gallery, 

WC2H 0HE 

11am, 1pm and 3pm. Join dancers from New Adventures 

& Re:Bourne for creative dance, games and movement 

sessions exploring themes of gender, identity, masquerade 

and performance. A fun physical workshop for all the 

family. Free. For more information visit 

www.npg.org.uk 

Cut Out Animation Workshop 


11am-3.30pm. Reza helps you create your 

own characters and then bring them to life 

using classic 2D cut out techniques in a 

short film that you can watch next week 

on the museum’s YouTube channel. Ages 

8-12. For more information and to book 

visit www.cartoonmuseumshop.org 

Musical Theatre 

The Jewish Museum, Camden Town, NW1 7NB 

1.30-4.30pm. Get hands on in this fun and interactive musical 

theatre workshop for 6-16 year olds. Advance booking essential. 

To book call 020 7284 7384. For more information visit 

www.jewishmuseum.org.uk 

Wed 5 – Thurs 6 Apr 

Let’s Get Coding The Royal Institution, W1S 4BS 

10.30am-12.45pm. In this hands-on coding workshop, David 

Nutting will help students learn the basics of how to build code, 

solving puzzles and problems along the way. Ages 7-9. For 

more information and to book visit www.rigb.org 

Wed 5 – Fri 7 Apr 

Perfect Portraits The Wallace Collection, 


10.30am-12.30pm and 2-4pm. From Portrait Miniature badges 

to traditional silhouette drawing and mix-and-match body 

books, you’ll be taking a fun and playful look at portraiture 

through the ages and creating your own masterpieces to take 

home. A free, drop-in drawing workshop for all ages and 

abilities. For more information 

visit www.wallacecollection.org 

Recreating Memories 


11am and 1.30pm. Join artist photographer Marysa Dowling 

to create a beautiful family portrait that tells your own story. 

Using craft and photography, create small objects, compose a 

scene, and take a photograph to take home. Ages 5+. For more 

information visit www.vam.ac.uk/moc 

Thurs 6 Apr 

Mystery Messages 

Forty Hall & Estate, Enfield, EN2 9HA 

10.30am-12noon, 12.30-2pm and 2.30-4pm. Messages in the 

past were sometimes written in code to prevent them from 

being read by unwanted eyes along the way. Follow a trail 

around Forty Hall to decipher a mystery message. Experiment 

with recipes to mix up inks in different colours using natural 

materials. Then make a quill pen and use it to write your own 

secret messages. Suitable for ages 4–11. Charges apply. For 


www.fortyhallestate.co.uk 

Protecting the Past, 


1pm. Join the museum conservators to find out how they look 

after archaeological evidence. For more information 

and to book visit www.museumoflondon.org.uk 

Make a Mini Comic Workshop 


11am-1pm. Everyone will love the complete mini-comic 

you’ll create featuring your own characters and story, 

suitable for printing. Ages 8-12. For more information and 

to book visit www.cartoonmuseumshop.org 

Train Challenge Camp 

Mini Engineers, St John’s Wood Church, NW8 7NE 

1-4pm. In this camp, each child will design and build their own 

carriage, which will then be used to transport bricks to build the 

tallest tower. Ages 5-11. Charges apply. For more information 

and to book visit www.mini-engineers.com 

Thurs 6 – Fri 7 Apr 

Animating the Royal Mews 

Buckingham Palace, SW1W 1QH 

11am-3pm. Visit over the Easter holidays and create your own 

animated short film inspired by the history of the Royal Mews. 

Free with admission ticket. For more information 

visit www.royalcollection.org.uk 

Fri 7 Apr 

Knots and Ropes 

The Foundling Museum, WC1N 1AZ 

10.30am-12noon, 1-2.30pm and 3-4.30pm. Inspired by the 

rope-making lessons for boys at the Foundling Hospital, learn 

how to tie knots and make your own skipping rope in this 

free family workshop. Ages 5+. Sign up on the day. For more 

information visit www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk 

Extract your own DNA 

The Royal Institution, W1S 4BS 

11am-1pm. Students will extract their own DNA and 

walk away with a small piece of it in a necklace for them to 

wear. Ages 7-9. For more information and to book visit 

www.rigb.org 

Sat 8 Apr 

Easter Antics 

St Andrews Parish Centre, Enfield, EN1 3EG 

10.30am-3.30pm. Join in the Easter Egg Hunt, get creative, 

meet the Easter bunny, shop and be entertained with live 

music and performances. Kids go free. For more information 

and to book visit www.clairewoodevents.co.uk 



WHAT’S ON WHERE


Egg-ceptional Easter 

Cupcake Workshop 

Broadwalk Centre, Edgware, HA8 7BD 

From 12noon until 4pm children are invited to join the The 

Broadwalk Centre’s chefs located by Costa Coffee and take 

part in a mouth-wateringly tasty workshop. Participants 

can pick their favourite base, icing and decorations for their 

cupcake before taking it home to enjoy a scrumptious Easter 

treat. For more information visit 

www.thebroadwalkcentre.co.uk 

Lady and the Tramp 

Regent Street Cinema, W1B 2UW 

11.30am. After the elegant spaniel Lady runs away she 

befriends Tramp, a local streetwise mutt who looks after her 

and they begin a warming friendship. Part of the Kids Kino 

Club. For more information and to book visit 

www.regentstreetcinema.com 

Maths Mash-up Pancras Square Library 

2-5pm. Looking for fun maths activities for all the family? 

Join Maths on Toast for a mix of making, colouring, number 

fun and much more. Ages 5-12. Free, drop in event. For more 

information visit www.mathsontoast.org.uk 


Crafting at Ally Pally 

Alexandra Palace, Wood Green, N22 7AY 

Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 10am-4pm. The best place to pick 

up hundreds of craft deals to stock up your craft stash. The 

show runs over the weekend and comprises over 50 stands 

with Great Bargains, all the latest products, huge discounts 

and show only offers from bestselling brands. For more 





10am. Hop along to meet the Easter Bunny for an eggcellent 

breakfast. Ticket price includes: a cuddly toy gift, Easter 

cookie decorating, a bunny hunt and a fun activity sheet. 

Ages 3-8. For more information and to buy tickets visit 

www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk 

VeggieWorld London 

Kensington Town Hall, W8 7NX 

Sat 10am-7pm, Sun 10am-5pm. The event will be packed 

full of vegan food, fashion, cosmetics and other innovative 

lifestyle products. There will be cookery demos, inspiring 

talks and lots more. For more information and to buy tickets 

visit www.veggieworld.de/london-en 

Sat 8 – Tues 11 Apr 

Puzzles of the Past Museum of London 

12.30pm and 2.30pm. Become an archaeologist as you piece 

together your very own puzzle at this art workshop. Free, 

drop in. For more information visit 


Sun 9 Apr 

Family Barn Dance 

Cecil Sharp House, Camden Town, NW1 7AY 

3pm. Take along the entire family and take part in lively 

dances from the British Isles in a supportive and fun 

environment. For more information and to book visit 

www.cecilsharphouse.org 

Elijah’s Cup 


2pm. Paint the special cup for Elijah the prophet so he can 

have a drink when he sits at the seder table. For ages 2+. For 

more information and to book visit www.jw3.org.uk 

Go-Kart parties! 

See page 20 

Real Royal Silver 


11am-1pm and 2-4pm. Create your own silver on paper 

by transforming paint into shiny metal fit for kings and 

princes. Ages 5-11. Free. For more information and to book 

visit www.nationalgallery.org.uk 

Tongue Fu for Kids 

Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX 

3pm. In this special kids version of one of the UK’s leading 

spoken word shows, your little ones become poets and 

musicians in an hour of fun, dreaming, games and spoken 

word musical mayhem. Ages 7-10. For more information 

and to book visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk 

Animate Celtic Craft 


11am-4pm. Work as a family to use stop-motion software 

on tablets to make spirals swirl and twisting torcs twirl, 

using a variety of craft materials. The scenes you create are 

shared online, so you can watch them at home. Ages 7+. 

For more information visit www.britishmuseum.org 

Marvelous Marble-mess 


11am-3pm. Lose yourself in this free, drop-in marbling 

workshop as you’ll float ink off the page and into 3D 

constructions. For more information visit 


Mon 10 Apr 

Animal Antics with 

Richy Workshop 


11am-1pm. Richy K Chandler (Wallace & Gromit, Adventure 

Time, Lucy The Octopus) shows you how to create 

successful animal characters, and how to put them into a 

short comic-strip. Ages 8-12. For more information and to 

book visit www.cartoonmuseumshop.org 

Cosmetic Chemistry 

The Royal Institution, W1S 4BS 

11am-3pm. Students will investigate the difference 

between acidic and alkaline solutions, and how they can 

neutralise each other in a reaction by forming a salt. Ages 

7-9. For more information and to book visit 

www.rigb.org 

Mon 10 – Wed 12 Apr 

Perfect Portraits 

The Wallace Collection 


10.30am-12.30pm and 2-4pm. From Portrait Miniature 

badges to traditional silhouette drawing and mix-andmatch 

body books, you’ll be taking a fun and playful 

look at portraiture through the ages and creating your 

own masterpieces to take home. A free, drop-in drawing 

workshop for all ages and abilities. For more information 

visit www.wallacecollection.org 


Good Luck Spirit Workshop 



11am, 12noon, 2pm and 3.30pm. Design and create a good 

luck charm to hang at home inspired by your own family’s 

stories, with the help of artist Amy Brown. For 

more information visit www.vam.ac.uk/moc 


Eagles at Easter 


(Selected dates) Birds of prey have been associated with 

the Royal Air Force since its foundation. To celebrate the 

contribution that these magnificent birds of prey have 

made to the RAF there will be some amazing displays to 

visit. For more information visit 

www.rafmuseum.org.uk/london 

Tues 11 Apr 

Georgian Easter 

Celebrations 

Benjamin Franklin House, WC2N 5NF 

11am-12.30pm. Take part in traditional Georgian Easter 

celebrations, with a special egg hunt throughout the 

House. Suitable for 5-11 year olds. Donations welcome. 

For more information and to book email education@ 

benjaminfranklinhouse.org 

Easter Woodcrafts 

Gunpowder Park, Waltham Abbey, EN9 3GP 

10am-1pm. Learn practical skills on this creative course 

hosted by the Lee Valley Ranger Team. Grown-ups and 

children will love making Easter themed keepsakes that 

they can take home. Charges apply. For more information 

and to book visit www.visitleevalley.org.uk 

Clayfaces Animation Workshop 


11am-3.30pm. In this claymation workshop, with Valentina 

Grasso you’ll make grotesque 3D cartoon faces for a short 

animated film that you can watch later on our YouTube 

Channel. Ages 8-12. For more information and to book visit 


Tues 11 – Thurs 13 Apr 

Hatching Out 


11am-1pm and 2-4pm. Become a botanical explorer 

and create your own mini-environments inspired by the 

natural worlds and symbols in paintings. Free. For more 


Tues 11 – Mon 17 Apr 

Great Fire Storytelling 


2pm and 3.15pm. Be transported back 350 years with this 

Great Fire of London storytelling session. Free, drop in 

event. For more information visit 


Wed 12 Apr 

Spring has Sprung Activity Afternoon 


1-3pm. Discover the magic of seasonal change through a 

fun filled afternoon of Spring related activities, including 

arts and crafts, seed planting and Spring games. For more 



Create a Comic-Strip Workshop 


11am-1pm. A great one for beginners - using special 

worksheets, you’ll quickly create your own 1 page comic 

story. Ages 8-12. For more information and to book visit 


Spring Eggstravaganza 


10.30am-12.30pm and 1.30-3.30pm. Spring has sprung! 

Join in for a storytelling session and a creative family 

workshop in the RA galleries. Ages 5+. Free. 



Wed 12 – Fri 14 Apr 

Recreating Memories V&A Museum of 

Childhood, Bethnal Green, E2 9PA 

11am and 1.30pm. Join artist photographer Marysa 

Dowling to create a beautiful family portrait that tells 

your own story. Using craft and photography, create small 

objects, compose a scene, and take a photograph to take 

home. Ages 5+. For more information visit 


Wed 12 Apr – Sat 6 May 

The Town Mouse and 

the Country Mouse 

Illustration Cupboard Gallery, SW1Y 6AL 

See a unique exhibition of Helen Ward’s original, 

watercolour illustrations from the classic tale of The Town 

Mouse and the Country Mouse, splendidly set in 1930’s New 

York. For more information visit 

www.illustrationcupboard.com 

Thurs 13 Apr 

Stained Glass Inspirations 


10.30am-12noon and 2.30-4pm. Children will love this 

introduction to stained glass design! Draw inspiration 

from the 1896 stained glass windows, intricate decorative 

features and the Forty Hall landscape to create your own 

stained glass style artwork using acetate and pen in this 

Easter workshop. Suitable for ages 4–11. 



Fri 14 Apr 

The Mad Hatter’s Arty Party 


11.15am, 12noon, 12.45pm, 1.30pm, 2.15pm and 3pm. 

You are invited to join in some arty madness. Create your 

own wonderland in a tea cup and play bonkers games 

that only Alice could imagine, with characters that hopped 

straight out of the book. Juices and biscuits will be 

served. Suitable for ages 6-11 years. For more 



Passion of Jesus 

Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN 

12noon-5pm. See the biblical story spectacularly brought 

to life at the annual performance of The Passion of 

Jesus in Trafalgar Square on Good Friday. Free. For more 

information visit www.london.gov.uk 

Alice in Zombieland 


2-4pm. What happens when Alice falls down a rabbit 

hole and is confronted by Zombie versions of the Mad 

Hatter, Cheshire Cat and the White Rabbit? Find out in this 

workshop. Ages 8-12. For more information and to book 

visit www.cartoonmuseumshop.org 

Fri 14 – Mon 17 Apr 

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt 

Fenton House and Garden, 

Hampstead Grove, NW3 6SP 

11am-4pm. Weave your way around the lawns, terraces, 

orchard and kitchen garden in your hunt for clues and to win 

a Cadbury chocolate prize. Admission charges apply. 


www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ 

fenton-house-and-garden 

Easter Weekend at the Farms 

Lee Valley Park Farms, 

Waltham Abbey, EN9 2EF 

10am-5pm. See if you can spot the Easter Bunny whilst 

searching for the missing eggs and enjoy various other 

Easter inspired activities. This is a fun filled eggciting day for 

all the family to enjoy. For more information visit 


Easter Egg Hunt 


11am-5pm. Celebrate Easter at Forty Hall with this 

Egg-citing Easter Egg Hunt. Follow an Easter Egg picture 

trail around the Hall and enjoy a chocolate treat as a reward. 

The perfect way to keep the children entertained this year. 

Charges apply. For more information and to book visit 


Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt 

Sutton House and Breaker’s Yard, E9 6JQ 

12noon-4.30pm. Join an Egg Hunt through an Alice in 

Wonderland inspired adventure, discover the fantastical 

characters from Wonderland - from the White Rabbit to the 

Jabberwocky for the chance to win a chocolate bunny. For 

more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ 

sutton-house-and-breakers-yard 

Easter Adventure Quest 


11am-5pm. Be a challenge champion this Easter weekend! 

You’ll be greeted by a character from the past - perhaps a 

king, a butler or a Roman centurion - who’ll be able to help 

you crack the clues as you explore Kenwood House. There’s 

a chocolate reward for successful adventurers, so be sure to 

join in the fun. Tickets will be available to purchase at the 

event site on the day. For more information visit 


Sat 15 Apr 

Meet Humpty Dumpty 

Broadwalk Centre, Edgware, HA8 7BD 

In celebration of the Easter holidays, little ones will 

have the opportunity to meet the much-loved star, at 

personal appearances between 12noon and 4pm during 

the shopping centre’s meet and greet sessions. For more 

information visit www.thebroadwalkcentre.co.uk 

A Georgian Easter and 

Teddy Bears Picnic 

John Wesley’s House, EC1Y 1AU 

11am-3pm. Discover how the Georgians celebrated Easter. 

Make and take crafts where you can make paper windmills, 

paper baskets and Easter hats. There will also be a teddy 

bears picnic trail so take along your teddies too. 

Free admission. For more information visit 

www.wesleysheritage.org.uk 

Easter Egg Trail 

London Bridge City, SE1 2HD 

Created by outdoor events company Fantasy High Street, 

the whole family can get involved in exploring this beautiful 

area on the River Thames with fun, games and, of course, 

chocolate eggs. Ages 5-10. Free. Limited availability. 

For ways to sign up visit 

www.londonbridgecity.co.uk/events 



WHAT’S ON WHERE

EASTER FAMILY FUN 

EasTeR 

Cecil Sharp House 

LEARN TO SWIM AT LONDON 

AQUATICS CENTRE 

pring into the pool this Easter with Better 

Sswimming lessons. No matter whether 

you’re keen to improve your technique, 

want to learn to swim for the first time, 

improve your swimming skills or enter your 

child in a swimming course, the London 

Aquatics Centre has tailor made options for 

you across spring and Easter. The iconic 

venue has more than 3,800 children and 

adults learning the life skill of swimming 

each week and couldn’t be better placed 

to support you in your water related 

endeavours with qualified instructors ready 

to welcome all types of swimmers. 

As operators of the London Aquatics 

Centre, Better work in partnership with the 

Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) to 

provide lessons from age 3 months and 

upwards. They also offer separate adult 

swimming lessons. So whether you want to 

book yourself or a child into an initial lesson 

or a full course of improvement classes for 

technique, the venue has options to suit 

your interests. 

The instructors are well-equipped with 

the skills for the job, having graduated from 

a rigorous course to become certified in 

teaching swimming and diving lessons. 

What’s more, all adults, students and 

parents of children are provided with 

access to the CoursePro app where 

you can track your progress online as 

registered by your swimming or diving 

instructor. To find out more, book online 

from a variety of budget-friendly options 

and manage your account, visit 

www.betterlessons.org.uk. 

CELEBRATE MAY DAY WITH 

A FAMILY FESTIVAL AT THE 

HOME OF ENGLISH FOLK 

ecil Sharp House in Camden is 

Cwelcoming in the merry month of May 

with its ever-popular May in a Day family 

festival. Whether you want to get creative 

with an arts and crafts workshop, dance 

the afternoon away with a high-energy 

ceilidh or get lost in some enchanting 

storytelling, May in a Day has something 

for everyone. 

This year we’re tapping into tradition 

with the theme of sword dancing. Enjoy a 

display from the amazing all-female rapper 

team Tower Ravens, or try the dances 

yourself with experienced tutors Bryony 

Griffith and Will Hampson. 

To book, visit cecilsharphouse.org or 

call 020 7485 2206 

GO-KART PARTY OFFERS A 

DRIVING THEMED PARTY WITH 

A DIFFERENCE! 

uitable for both boys and girls 4 –10 

Syears of age. If you are looking for a 

party which is different, exciting and 

memorable, then look no further. Go-Kart 

party specialises in making your party so 

much fun, that everyone will be talking 

about it for weeks after. Our parties are 

not just about driving, we provide a unique, 

fun, interactive driving experience which 

involves, obstacle courses, driving games 

and a mini driving test and a closing 

ceremony awarding all drivers with driving 

certificates and medals and the “Best 

Driver” will receive their very own Go-Kart 

Party trophy. You can choose from one 

of our many indoor venues across North 

London or happy to check out any venue 

you have in mind. Go-Kart Party, a party 

they will never forget, so let’s get racing! 

Organising a fun day? Go-Kart Party 

are happy to attend fun days, fetes, shows, 

festivals, weddings and corporate days. 

For more information call Hayley on 

07949 361 466 or 0370 116 2000 

EVERGREEN MUSIC 

AND DRAMA 

t Evergreen Music and Drama we 

Aencourage children to be creative in their 

own unique way. Our classes caterer to the 

individual talents of each child, with the aim 

of building confidence and self expression. 

Visit our website or Facebook page for 

more information or to book a free trial 

email evergreenmusicanddrama@gmail. 

com or call Michelle on 0797 9877 833 


FaMiLy FuN! 

Jigsaw arts 

FEED THEIR IMAGINATION, 

WATCH THEIR 

CONFIDENCE GROW 

hildren across North London have just 

Ccompleted another fun-filled 11 weeks of 

drama, singing and dance. Some dazzling 

end-of-term shows and mesmerising 

presentations made for some very happy 

performing arts tutors. 

With one term ending and a new term 

just around the corner, thoughts now turn 

towards a theatre trip. This April, Jigsaw 

students and their families are jumping 

aboard a magic carpet ride and are off to 

see Disney’s Aladdin at the Prince Edward 

Theatre in London’s West End. Meanwhile, 

a brand-new Jigsaw school is opening in 

Bushey and children from Jigsaw’s agency, 

Jigsaw Arts Management, are continuing to 

appear on both stage and screen. 

All in all, it’s been an incredibly exciting 

spring term for Jigsaw, and staff and 

students alike can’t wait for the next term 

to get underway. 

For more information or to book a two 

week trial, visit www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk 

or alternatively you can call 020 8447 4530 

and a member of the team will be more 

than happy to help. 

COME ALONG TO THE GEFFRYE 

MUSEUM THIS SPRING. 

iscover how homes have changed and 

Dpeople have lived through the centuries. 

Wander through the displays of living rooms 

from 1600 to the present day then explore 

the walled herb garden and period gardens 

behind the museum. 

Throughout the year, the displays are 

brought to life through an imaginative 

programme of special exhibitions and 

events. Our current exhibition, Teenage 

Bedrooms, looks inside the bedrooms of 26 

London teenagers to reveal how 

identity, memory and friendship 

are expressed through photographs, 

displays of objects and a room set which 

visitors can go into. 

During the Easter holidays, free creative 

workshops celebrating Spring will be run 

from Tuesday 4 – Friday 7 April between 

10.30am and 4pm. Decorate plant pots, 

create garden animals from clay, make 

scented herb bags and much more. For 

our younger visitors aged 2-5 there will be 

stories, crafts and songs. In addition, there 

will be quizzes, trails and Geffrye Explorer 

backpacks to help you discover more. 

The museum’s café serves delicious, 

home-cooked food with special menus 

for children during school holidays. 

Alternatively, bring a picnic to eat under the 

trees on the front lawn. 

For full details on the Geffrye and 

forthcoming events, please visit 

www.geffrye-museum.org.uk. 136 

Kingsland Road, London E2 8EA. 020 7739 

9893. info@gefffrye-museum.org.uk. 

Free. Open Tuesday – Sunday, 10am-5pm. 

Nearest station: Hoxton (directly behind 

museum) 

LES PETITS DAUPHINS 

L 

Geffrye museum 

ES PETITS DAUPHINS is a new and 

exciting private swimming school in 

North London with a lot of experience and 

professionalism. We educate the children 

regarding water safety and give them the 

necessary skills to swim. We offer quality 

lessons, in a private environment. We are 

focusing on children learning to swim safely 

with confidence, along with floatation, 

body position, breathing, and coordination 

techniques and a lot of fun. This is Les 

Petits Dauphins! 

LES PETITS DAUPHINS offers swimming 

lessons for small groups up to a maximum 

of 6 babies/toddlers in the class. 1-2-1 

swimming classes in a private 

environment to suit every baby/ 

child (classes are organised based 

on age and swimming level). Private 

swimming lessons can be arranged at 

your own residence too if required. Email 

swimming@lespetitsdauphins.co.uk 

JUMP UP 

J 

ump Up is a 

Dance School 

based in both 

Hampstead NW3 and 

Mill Hill NW7 offering fun and 

structured dance classes for boys 

and girls aged 3 to 18+ 

Our professional, fully qualified 

and registered teachers provide 

classes in RAD ballet, street dance 

and tap to suit a wide range of 

ages and abilities. Pupils at Jump 

Up also work towards RAD ballet 

examinations in a friendly and 

non-pressurised environment - our 

excellent results demonstrate that 

small class sizes and passionate 

teaching does lead to success. 

Pupils take part in shows and workshops 

with invited guests on a regular basis - see 

our news page for pictures & details 

www.jumpup.co.uk. You can now follow 

us on Facebook and twitter ! 

EASTER FAMILY FUN 






10am. Hop along to meet the Easter Bunny for an 

eggcellent breakfast. Ticket price includes: a cuddly toy gift, 

Easter cookie decorating, a bunny hunt and a fun activity 

sheet. Ages 3-8. For more information and to buy tickets 

visit www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk 

Sun 16 Apr 

Easter Family Day 

Keats House, Hampstead, NW3 2RR 

1-4pm. Easter bunnies have taken over! They’re hiding and 

your help is needed to track them all down. Find all the 

cheeky rabbits and make a carrot cone for carrying home 

your chocolate prize. Free, drop-in (£1 donation welcome). 

For more information visit www.cityoflondon.gov.uk 

The Great Egg Roll 

Lauderdale House, Highgate, N6 5HG 

11am. Join in this annual Easter Egg Roll! Create and 

decorate your own egg, join in The Great Egg Roll and look 

for hidden eggs in the park. Meet at the back of the House 

by the café to start your Easter eggstravaganza! Charges 

apply. For more information and to book visit 

www.lauderdalehouse.org.uk 


Bury Lodge Park, N9 

1-4pm. Friends of Bury Lodge Park’s Annual Easter 

Egg Hunt will take place on Easter Sunday. Amongst 

other attractions on offer are a raffle, coconut shy and 

refreshments. All proceeds to go towards brightening the 

children’s playground area. Numbers are limited, so arrive 

early to avoid disappointment. Tickets available on the gate. 


www.enfieldfestivals.co.uk 

Walking on Clouds 


11am-12.30pm and 2-3.30pm. Fly high with Tiepolo and 

create your own ceiling masterpiece. Ages 5-11. Free. For 




The Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace, 

SW1W 1QH 

11am-3pm. Join in the fun in the Learning Room to make 

and decorate your own Easter basket and then follow a 

treasure trail to find Easter eggs hidden around the Royal 

Mews. Free with admission ticket. For more information 

visit www.royalcollection.org.uk 

Egyptian Photo Booth 


11am-4pm. Become an Egyptian pharaoh, god or dancer 

on a wall painting. Discover what their poses mean, and use 

green screen technology to put your family in th e picture. 

Ages 5+. For more information visit 





From 2pm. Join in to celebrate Easter with live music 

and an Easter egg hunt. Throughout the weekend there 

will be flat water paddling and legacy activities available 

for everyone who wants to get involved themselves. 




Story Scramble 


11am-3.30pm. In this interactive trail and game for 

families, some stories about The Tower of London have 

been scrambled up and must be put back together again. 

See if you can connect the pieces as you explore 1000 years 

of history in a day. For more information visit 


Fri 21 – Sun 23 Apr 

Mannings Fair 

Clissold Park, Stoke Newington, N16 9HJ 

Join in all of the fun of the funfair this weekend 

at Clissold Park. For more information visit 

www.clissoldpark.com 

Sat 22 Apr 

Tennis Club Community Open Day 

Vicars Moor Lawn Tennis Club, 

Winchmore Hill, N21 2NU 

12noon-4pm. Join a thriving family tennis club in the heart 

of Winchmore Hill for all standards of players. Free Adult, 

Junior and Munchkins (2+) taster tennis clinics all afternoon 

for all ages and abilities. Everyone welcome. BBQ from 

12.30pm. Free family event, no need to book. For more 

information visit www.vicarsmoorltc.co.uk 

Naomi’s Wild and Scary 

Royal Geographical Society, Kensington, SW7 2AR 

11am and 2.30pm. Join Naomi as she recalls some of her 

most exciting wildlife experiences from the far flung corners 

of the world and even introduces the audience to some of 

the frightening animals she met along the way. For more 

information and to book visit www.pleasance.co.uk 

Family Activities 

Tower Bridge Exhibition, SE1 2UP 

10.30am-4pm. Join in some fun, hands on family activities 

at Tower Bridge. Admission charges apply. For more 


www.towerbridge.org.uk 

Shoe Star 


11am-4pm. Design a moccasin inspired by the Museum’s 

collection of shoes. Use design software on tablets to create 

a design fit for your personality, then print it onto fabric so 

you can wear it over your own shoes. Ages 7+. For more 


Mini Maestro Family Concert St Martin 

in the Fields, Trafalgar Square, WC2N 4JJ 

4.30-5.30pm. Go along to enjoy Schubert’s lightest and 

brightest symphony, with a sprinkling of Mozart and Handel 

too. For more information and to book visit 

www.stmartin-in-the-fields.org 

Feast of St George 

Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN 

12noon-6pm. Celebrate St George’s Day with a feast of 

English food, live music and free fun for everyone. There’ll 

be cookery demos from celebrity chefs, stalls selling 

mouth-watering treats, a beautiful banqueting area and 

a host of indoor and outdoor family games. For more 

information visit www.london.gov.uk 

Sun 23 Apr 

Big Fish Little Fish Family Rave 

The Mangle, Hackney, E8 3FN 

2-4.30pm. World famous, award winning, Glastonbury 

Festival performing, family rave sensation BFLF throws the 

ultimate family event in the wonderful basement rave cave 

the Mangle. Optional fancy dress: Pop Stars and Rock Stars. 

For more information and to buy tickets visit 

www.bigfishlittlefishevents.co.uk 

A Brief Glimpse 


11am-1pm and 2-4pm. Learn how the Impressionists 

painted people and places quickly to create incredible 

impressions. Ages 5-11. Free. For more information and to 

book visit www.nationalgallery.org.uk 

Shadow Puppets 


11am-1pm and 2-4pm. Learn about the ancient tradition 

of shadow-puppetry in Java and then decorate your own 

beautiful puppets. Sign up on the day of the session at 

the Samsung Digital Discovery Centre. Ages 5+. For more 


St George’s Day 



11.30am-4.30pm. Discover the delights of English folk 

music and dance traditions with rousing song, dance and 

instrumental performances by the Trad Academy. There will 

also be arts and craft activities to take part in and lots more. 

For more information visit www.vam.ac.uk/moc 

Sensory Landscapes 


11am-1pm. A free creative family workshop inspired by the 

paintings in ‘America after the Fall: Painting in the 1930s’. 

This workshop is for children with special educational needs. 



30 April Meridian Lantern Parade 

at Waltham Abbey Gardens 

Thurs 27 Apr 

Little Swifts 


10.30-11.30am. Join in this fun and lively session for children 

aged 2-5, which includes arts and crafts, games, stories and 

songs. Each session is linked to the amazing collection and 

helps bring the Museum to life. Charges apply. To book email 

learning-london@rafmuseum.org. For more information visit 

www.rafmuseum.org.uk/london 

Sat 29 Apr 

Children’s Magic Workshop 

Museum of Comedy, Bloomsbury Way, WC1A 2SR 

1.30pm. The workshop is designed to be interactive and 

fun, taught by a top Magic Circle London magician, covering 

simple sleight of hand and the basic fundamentals of magic. 

Ages 7-13. Charges apply. For more information and to book 

visit www.museumofcomedy.com 

Vaisakhi Festival Trafalgar Square, WC2N 4JJ 

12noon-6pm. The packed line-up includes live 

performances, kirtan (spiritual music), arts, food, community 

groups and charities. There’ll also be fun children’s activities, 

turban tying and more. Free. For more information visit 

www.london.gov.uk 

Get Your Tech On! British Museum, WC1B 3DG 

11am-4pm. Using wearable technology, work together to 

solve a digital puzzle trail, find missing jigsaw pieces and put 

them back where they come from in the galleries. 

A passport, national ID or driver’s licence is required as a 

deposit. Ages 7+. For more information visit 


Sat 29 Apr – Mon 1 May 

Mannings Fair 

Clissold Park, Stoke Newington, N16 9HJ 

Join in all of the fun of the funfair this weekend at Clissold 

Park. For more information visit www.clissoldpark.com 

Go Medieval at the Tower 


10am-5pm. Step into a medieval world and join in the 

festivities with plenty of fun for the whole family. Practice 

the art of pastry jumbles with the medieval cooks, feel the 

weight of a real knight’s sword and have a go at firing a 

crossbow. For more information and to buy tickets visit 


Sun 30 Apr 

Colours of Israel 


2pm. Celebrate Israeli culture with examples of Israeli art and 

famous scenes from the Holy Land. Make a collage of your 

favourite Israeli places or recreate a piece by an Israeli artist 

who inspires you. Ages 2+. For more information and to buy 

tickets visit www.jw3.org.uk 

Objects in Focus 

The View from The Shard, SE1 9SG 

10.30am-4pm. Join in a complimentary object-handling 

session, run by the Museum of London. See and touch 

artefacts discovered on the foreshore of the River Thames and 

archaeological finds from the London 2012 Olympic site. To 

buy tickets visit www.theviewfromtheshard.com 

Make a Manga Comic 


11am-1pm and 2-4pm. Learn the secrets of manga comic 

artists, develop digital design skills to tell a story with 

characters from the Museum, then print and take your 

creation home. Sign up on the day at the Samsung Digital 

Discovery Centre. Ages 7+. For more information visit 


Meridian Lantern Procession 


9-10pm. Go along with a lantern to enjoy a truly breathtaking 

sight with a night time lantern procession. The 

procession starts in front of the Abbey Farmhouse and 

finishes at the Meridian Gate in the Rose Garden. For more 

information visit www.visitleevalley.org.uk 

MAY 

Sat 6 May 

Open Air Cinema 



7pm. Grab your popcorn and pull up a blanket to enjoy a 

screening of Mamma Mia!- there’s no better way to watch a 

movie than under a starlit sky and all proceeds going to The 

Nightingale Cancer Support Centre. For more information 

and to book visit www.visitleevalley.org.uk 

Westminster Morris Men 

Trafalgar Square, WC2N 4JJ 

2-6pm. Westminster Morris Men and Morris Dance teams 

from across England will join the annual Day of Dance. 

This free event will see teams of Morris Men dancing in 

Westminster’s streets and Trafalgar Square all afternoon. 

For more information visit www.london.gov.uk 

Sat 6 – Sun 7 May 

Mozart in the Garden 

Kings Place, Kings Cross, N1 9AG 

‘Mozart in the Garden’ invites you to wander among the 

lavender, wiggle with worms and snooze to the music of a 

twinkling firefly. These 30-minute immersive performances 

in the round for children ages 0–5 and their families will 

delight and surprise. For times, more information and to 

book visit www.kingsplace.co.uk 

Special Children’s Day 2017 

ZSL London Zoo, Regent’s Park, NW1 4RY 

A unique annual event welcoming children with special 

needs and their families and friends. All Special Children’s 

Day activities are free and all Zoo visitors are welcome to join 

in the fun. Admission charges apply. For more information 

and to buy tickets visit www.zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo 

Sun 7 May 

Once Upon a Piece of Paper 


11am-3pm. Uncover the limitless possibilities of paper and 

parchment in this 3D paper workshop for families, led by 

artist Thurle Wright. Free. For more information visit 


Sat 13 May 

Maths Mash-up 

Pancras Square Library, N1C 4AG 

2-5pm. Looking for fun maths activities for all the family? 

Join Maths on Toast for a mix of making, colouring, number 

fun and much more. Ages 5-12. Free, drop in event. For 

more information visit www.mathsontoast.org.uk 

Sat 13 – Sun 14 May 

National Mills Weekend 

Various Locations 

Enjoy an annual festival of milling heritage which provides 

you with a fantastic opportunity to visit mills, many 

of which are not usually open to the public. For more 

information and to find a mill near you visit 

www.nationalmillsweekend.co.uk 

Great British 

Tennis Weekend 

Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre, E20 3AD 

12noon-4pm. As the Wimbledon fever kicks in, take 

this opportunity to exercise and enjoy a game yourself. It 

will be an action packed weekend. For more information 

visit www.visitleevalley.org.uk 

Mozart in the Garden 

Kings Place, Kings Cross, N1 9AG 

‘Mozart in the Garden’ invites you to wander among the 

lavender, wiggle with worms and snooze to the music of a 

twinkling firefly. These 30-minute immersive performances 

in the round for children ages 0–5 and their families will 

delight and surprise. For times, more information and to 

book visit www.kingsplace.co.uk 

Sun 14 May 

Covent Garden May Fayre 

and Puppet Festival 

St Paul’s Church Garden, WC2E 9ED 

10.30am-5.30pm. Celebrate the 354th anniversary of the 

first sighting of Mr Punch in England by Samuel Pepys in 

May 1662 with Punch and Judy Professors from all over the 

country and abroad. Free admission. For more information 

visit www.alternativearts.co.uk 

Wed 17 – Sat 20 May 

Museums at Night Various Locations 

A UK-wide festival which seeks to encourage visitors into 

museums, galleries and heritage sites by throwing their 

doors open after hours and putting on special evening 

events. For more information and to find an event near you 

visit www.museumsatnight.org.uk 


The Maths Factor is way more 

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You can make Carol Vorderman your child’s online maths tutor and 

help your child advance by up to 25 months in one year. 

• Aimed at children aged 4-11 

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Maths confidence 

• Sessions begin with one of over 1000 videos by Carol explaining 

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the warmups, 

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activities to 

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• Finally, 

the practice is where a child gets to try out their new skills and 

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There are also fun games, certificates, clubs and the 30 day 

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8 out of 10 parents see an improvement in their child’s confidence 

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SPECIAL 

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PTOx_pearson_ED.indd 1 09/03/2017 12:04 

WIN 

CBBC Star, Katie Thistleton Celebrates 

The Cat In The Hat’s 60 th Birthday 

TICKETS TO 

MY FIRST BALLET: 

CINDERELLA 

? 

Enjoy everyone’s favourite rags-toriches 

story, in a beautifully adapted 

ballet version for children aged three 

upwards. Enter to win tickets to My 

First Ballet: Cinderella, this Easter at 

the Peacock Theatre on 11 – 22 April 

2017. One winner will win 4 tickets to 

come see the production*. To enter, 

simply answer the question. 

What was Cinderella 

transformed into by 

her Fairy Godmother? 

1: A green toad 

2: A magic beanstalk 

3: A glittering Princess 

In the lead up to Dr. Seuss’ Cat in the Hat’s 60th Birthday (12th March), 

HarperCollins Children’s Books and Save the Children have came together 

to put on a very special event for Copenhagen Primary School – a 

London school supported by Save the Children’s parental engagement 

programmes to ensure children receive the support they need to learn, 

develop and get the best start in life. 

The reading was followed by a few words from Katy Sparrow-Robins from 

Save the Children regarding the importance of reading, especially during 

the early years. 

Across the UK, Save the Children has helped more than 30,000 children 

through its parental engagement programmes, and plans to reach 

thousands more in the coming years. For more information visit: 

www.savethechildren.org.uk/about-us/ 

where-we-work/united-kingdom/school 

Enter online at 

www.primarytimes.net/london_north/competitions 

or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PTLondonNorth 

Closing Date: 03/04/2017 

*Prize is 4 top-price tickets for any performance from 11 to 22 April 2017. Subject to 

availability. No cash alternative. Transport and accommodation costs not included. 


To go, or not to go? 

The issue of term-time travel 

Taking children out of school 

for extra holiday is such a hot 

topic that the UK’s Supreme 

Court is about to decide on 

the issue following a landmark 

court case. Mike Gartside 

finds out what this means 

for families... 

You’ve worked hard as parents. The children 

have done well at school and the whole family 

deserves a holiday. Perhaps money’s a bit tight 

but you want to take them somewhere with 

guaranteed sun and good facilities for the kids. 

The holiday brochures and websites look 

alluring but press that “book now” button 

and... ouch! 

Holiday prices outside term time are 

notoriously high - some would say inflated - 

and many parents feel it does little harm to 

take a child out of school for a few days to 

spare the family budget. Furthermore, cheaper 

holidays are just one reason for absence from 

school. Parents could argue that some visits 

offer great educational or welfare benefit to a 

child, for example attending an important family 

occasion, taking part in a sporting 

event or learning about a different culture. 

Term time holidays are a perennially 

contentious topic, but they’re especially 

under the spotlight at the moment after the 

law was tightened by former education 

secretary Michael Gove in 2013. These days, 

headteachers no longer have the discretion 

to approve absences of up to 10 days and 

can only give permission in “exceptional 

circumstances” such as family funerals. In July 

last year it was revealed that 90,000 parents 

in England and Wales had been penalised for 

taking their children out of school, resulting in 

£5.6 million in fines. 

The situation is coming to a head as the UK’s 

Supreme Court weighs up the issues, in a high 

profile court case between one parent, Jon 

Platt and his local council The Isle of Wight. Mr 

Platt took his youngest daughter out of her 

state-run school for a week’s holiday in Florida 

and was fined £60 by the council for the initial 

absence plus a further £60 when he refused to 

pay the fine. He argued his daughter had a 

92.3%, attendance record at school, and the 

fine was unjustified. The Magistrates Court 

agreed with him, as did the High Court, and 

the council has taken the case to the highest 

court in the land, seeking clarity on when it’s 

appropriate to penalise parents for their child’s 

non-attendance. 

But one former headteacher told Primary 

Times that these breaks can have a detrimental 

effect both on the child and the school. Brian 

Eldridge says, “Schools are judged on 

attendance figures and are held to account for 

them. Attendance has a direct impact on 

GSCE results and, if you miss a day a week, 

you’re missing 20 percent of curriculum time, 

so even small amounts of non-attendance can 

mount up. 

“Schools are judged on 

attendance figures and are 

held to account for them. 

Attendance has a direct impact 

on GSCE results. If you miss 

a day a week, you’re missing 

20 percent of curriculum time” 

The [government] expectation is that pupils 

should achieve 100% attendance and, 

although 90% sounds good, it’s still half a 

day a week.” Even short breaks from school 

can lead to children missing important sections 

in the curriculum, and finding themselves out of 

their depth later in the year. 

But one West Country father believes that 

some term time travel can be culturally 

enriching. Jack Evans and his wife took their 

three children to the Middle East, where the 

family had lived for several years, for a three 

week visit including a week of term time. 

“It was a trip back to the country we’d lived 

and worked in,” he says. “We thought, if 

we were going that far, there were lots of 

people wanted to catch up with and we 

needed the time. 

“We requested permission from the school and 

explained why. Although it was a holiday, we 

had a strong family connection with the area. 

It was a chance for the kids to reconnect 

with an important part of their upbringing. 

The school replied saying permission was not 

granted.” The Evans family took the holiday, 

anyway, aware that they could be fined. 

“We had to weigh that up with cost of trip,” 

he says. “I wouldn’t encourage families to 

take kids out in the middle of term because I 

understand need for continuity, but when it’s 

adding to an existing holiday and there’s good 

reason for it, I hope schools would take a 

reasonable approach. The visit was worth it 

because the kids met friends they spent their 

early years with, who they hadn’t seen for four 

years. It was a good opportunity to catch up 

and learn about a different part of world.” 

In the end, Jack says, the school did not 

impose fines but, “It created anxiety around the 

significant amount of money we might need to 

pay because of our choice.” 

Brian Eldridge, who as a headmaster before 

the 2013 changes agreed to various term time 

holiday requests on a variety of grounds, 

agrees: “You could argue that the law as it 

stands sours the relationships between 

schools and families.” 

“Before the law changed, we granted holiday 

if a child had good attendance but we insisted 

the parents committed to catching up. It’s 

counterproductive to say ‘no’ to everybody.” 

With the justices’ ruling due any week now, 

parents throughout the UK are waiting with 

baited breath to see if they really can click 

“book now”. 


BOX OFFICE 

ARTSDEPOT NORTH FINCHLEY 

Box Office: 020 8369 5454 www.artsdepot.co.uk 

26 Mar Sammy and the 

Snow Leopard 

Sammy’s Mum won’t let him have any pets. But when 

his best friend Hokey Pokey tells him about the Adopt 

a Snow Leopard programme, Sammy reckons he’s 

found a way to have a pet that doesn’t actually come to 

the house. He soon finds himself on an adventure that 

quickly spirals out of control. Ages 5-10. 

1 - 6 Apr The Very Hungry 

Caterpillar Show 

Created by Jonathan Rockefeller, the critically acclaimed 

production of The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show features 

a menagerie of 75 lovable puppets, faithfully adapting 

four of Eric Carle’s stories. 

8 – 10 Apr The Tiger Who 

Came to Tea 

The tea-guzzling tiger is back on the road in this 

delightful family show, packed with oodles of magic, 

sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos. A stunning stage 

adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem... 

expect to be surprised! Ages 3+. 

9 Apr Comedy Club 4 Kids 

Since 2005, the Comedy Club 4 Kids has been 

getting the best stand-ups and sketch acts from the 

international circuit to do their thing for an audience 

of children and their families… but without the rude 

bits! Ages 6+. 

11 Apr The Party 

An endlessly entertaining topsy-turvy show that 

OFFICE 

humorously explores difficult topics such as sharing, 

social exclusion, and not always getting what you want. 

Fantastically engaging for young people to 

enjoy with the whole family and there’s even 

pass the parcel. Ages 3+. 

13 Apr The Adventures of 

the Little Ghost 

The Little Ghost’s greatest wish is to see the world in 

daylight, just once. But how can he make his wish come 

true? And what will the townsfolk make of a 

ghost in the daytime? Ages 4+. 

23 Apr Project O 

Three dancers and a musician are on a treasure hunt 

in search of the disappearing moon. They enter into a 

dream-like space where games and surprises are played 

out in an alternating world of reality and abstract. 

Will they find the moon? And will they place it back in 

the sky? Ages 4+. 

30 Apr Bright Sparks 

Links and Rex are like light and dark, left and right. Links 

is logical - she likes order and fact. Rex is different - 

she is imaginative, a daydreamer. Watch these two 

opposites get their wires crossed and their noodles in 

a muddle as they strive to find ways to work and play 

together. Ages 3-7. 

7 May The Explorer 

After crash landing on an unusual island, the brave 

Explorer encounters wild beasts, rough seas and 

futuristic technologies. Join her as she leaps, swims, 

floats into space and enjoys a rather bumpy elephant 

ride as she tries to find a way back home. Ages 3-8. 

14 May Dough! 

Jess is in a mess, a very doughy mess. Unable to resolve 

the chaos in her kitchen she has to make a journey to an 

unfamiliar place to get help. Everything tastes, smells 

and feels different there. Ages 3+. 

21 May The Scarecrows’ Wedding 

This truly heart-warming adaptation of Julia Donaldson 

and Axel Scheffler’s bestselling book is bursting at the 

seams with Scamp Theatre’s inimitable style (Stick Man, 

Tiddler & Other Terrific Tales) and promises wit, drama, 

and wedding bells. Ages 3+. 

HACKNEY EMPIRE E8 

Box Office: 020 8985 2424 

22 – 25 Mar Running Wild 

Michael Morpurgo’s novel, based on a true story, is 

brought to lush life with extraordinary heart, vibrant 

colour and exceptional creativity, wowing audiences of 

all ages and critics alike. Ages 6+. 

HALF MOON YOUNG 

PEOPLE’S THEATRE E1 

Box Office: 020 7709 8900 www.halfmoon.org.uk 

25 Mar Family Folk Show 

Award-winning folk duo Megson blend their infectious 

mix of heavenly vocals and lush harmonies into a gentle 

and entertaining concert for all the family, featuring 

children’s folk songs old and new from their album, 

When I Was a Lad. 

1 Apr Princess and the Pea 

This quirky and inventive adaptation of Hans Christian 

Your family 

theatre guide... 

Andersen’s bedtime tale is played out among sheets 

and blankets with puppets, objects and dreamlike 

projections. Ages 3-7. 

8 Apr The Elves and the Shoemaker 

A topsy-turvy re-telling of the fairy tale favourite 

with toe-tapping music, laugh out loud characters, 

puppetry and even a little bit of magic. Ages 3-8. 

13 – 16 May Happily Ever After 

The show is inspired by the Dutch children’s book King 

and King by Linda de Haan and Stern Nijland. It’s a notto-be-missed 

fairy tale with a twist. Ages 5+. 

JACKSONS LANE N6 

Box Office: 020 8341 4421 

www.jacksonslane.org.uk 

10 – 11 Apr Lost Property 

A comedy about a clown who gives in to society 

and gets a real job. Not knowing who he is 

anymore, Tweedy gets a job in a Lost Property Office to 

try and find himself. Ages 3+. 

12 – 13 Apr Around 

Juggling, sword swallowing, hula hooping, acrobatics, 

clowning and a guitar-playing monkey will surprise 

and delight little ones and their families in this 

captivating spectacle. Ages 4+. 

23 Apr Wow! Said the Owl 

The show explores the wow-wow world of colours 

with a curious little owl who is determined to stay 

awake to see what daylight brings. Directed by Joy 

Haynes, this show will delight and excite children. 

Ages 2-5. 


30 Apr The Elves and the Shoemaker 

Now in his twilight years, Geoff struggles with his 

memory and the patchwork of his past. One day at the 

bottom of his garden he is visited by two magical friends, 

who help him to recall the old days in the shoe shop, 

reliving the hard times, the good times and the magic. 

Ages 4+. 

7 May Chester Tuffnut 

Told with puppets, original music and imaginative antics, 

this show is full of humour, thrills, spills, near misses and 

great escapes. It is a story about discovering new places 

and making friends, while encouraging everyone to have 

at least one adventure a day. Ages 2-5. 

LITTLE ANGEL THEATRE N1 

Box Office: 020 7226 1787 

www.littleangeltheatre.com 

22 – 26 Mar The Magic Lamp 

Played out in the round and using an ancient Middle 

Eastern version of the text of Aladdin, Indefinite Articles 

will take your imagination on a walk to Baghdad and 

back. Ages 5-11. 

29 Mar – 2 Apr The Curious 

Adventures of Pinocchio 

Crickets, cats, foxes and of course the world-famous 

puppet will spring out of a collection of dusty old magic 

books while Patrick Lynch from Cbeebies pulls all the 

strings and turns all the pages to bring you the true and 

original story of Pinocchio. Ages 5-11. 

1 – 2 Apr The Explorer 

After crash landing on an unusual island, the brave 

Explorer encounters wild beasts, rough seas and futuristic 

technologies. Will the Explorer ever make it back home? 

Ages 3-7. 

3 – 4 Apr The Ugly Duckling 

Inspired by the classic Hans Christian Andersen tale, 

the performance features the trademark hand shadow 

puppetry of Drew Colby, live cello music played by Penny 

Callow, beautiful lightscapes, whimsical humour and 

clever use of everyday objects guaranteed to take the 

imagination on a journey with the duckling. Ages 5-11. 

4 – 5 Apr The Carnival of the Animals 

When a lowly pianist and a star kazoo player step on stage 

to give an important recital, their shadows quickly take 

over to express their true feelings about each other – until 

the shadows show them that it is better to work together 

if you want to make something beautiful. Ages 4-9. 

6 – 8 Apr Peter and the Wolf 

Grandfather has warned Peter many times of the dangers 

of playing near the forest because a Wolf lives nearby. 

Peter isn’t bothered by these warnings, and he goes out 

of the gate to see if he can find his animal friends. After a 

great deal of fun, the wolf arrives. Is Peter worried, not a 

bit? Ages 4-9. 

9 – 10 Apr The Homeless Panda 

The monkeys say she’s too big for their trees, the 

porcupine thinks she’d eat all his food and as for the other 

bears, well…they just think she looks weird. Xióngmāo 

must travel far and wide to seek new friends, see new 

places and ultimately, find somewhere to call home 

again. Ages 3-7. 

11 – 12 Apr Chester Tuffnut 

The curious creatures in Woodland have gone so long 

without excitement, they’ve forgotten how to have 

fun. Luckily, Chester is on hand to bring happiness and 

laughter back to his new Woodland friends. Ages 2-6. 

13 – 15 Apr Rapunzel and the 

Tower of Doom 

Tangles? Split Ends? Frizzy? Flyaway? It’s bad enough 

having a bad hair day but pity poor Rapunzel spending 

her life in a tower with some strange woman using her 

captive’s locks as a step ladder! What sort of damage is 

that going to do to your hair? Ages 4-9. 

17 Apr Videk’s Shirt 

Videk is a small boy very friendly with all the animals 

in the countryside. One day the wind blows away his 

raggedy shirt. Videk is cold – who can help him? 

Come with Videk and his animal friends and learn 

how the sheep’s wool is made into a lovely new 

warm shirt. Ages 2-5. 

22 Apr – 16 Jul Dogs Don’t Do Ballet 

Biff doesn’t think he’s a dog, Biff thinks he’s a ballerina! 

The sublime and the ridiculous combine in this hilarious 

story of a small dog with a big personality and even 

bigger dreams, brought to life using beautiful puppets, 

well-loved ballet music and dazzling theatrical comedy 

by Little Angel Theatre. Ages 2-7. 

27 Apr – 16 Jul 

Red Riding Hood and the Wolf 

You may think you know the story of Red Riding Hood, 

sugar and spice and all things nice. But there are two 

sides to every story, so let’s hear it from the Wolf himself. 

Here’s the story never heard of a kind and hungry wolf 

who strayed from the path and lost his friends. Ages 5+. 

PEACOCK THEATRE HOLBORN 

Box Office: 020 7863 8222 www.sadlerswells.com 

Until 25 Mar Yamato 

In this high-energy, exhilarating performance, the 

drummers push their own limits in a staggering display 

of physical strength as they use their entire bodies to 

produce their thunderous music. 

11 – 22 Apr My First Ballet: 

Cinderella 

Everyone’s favourite rags-to-riches story, in a beautifully 

adapted ballet version for children aged three upwards. 

PRINCE EDWARD THEATRE W1D 

Box Office: 08444 825 151 

Until 30 Sep Aladdin 

Featuring the timeless songs from the classic 

film including A Whole New World, Friend Like 

Me and Arabian Nights along with new music written 

for the production, Aladdin is an extraordinary 

theatrical event you will want to be amongst the first to 

experience. Ages 6+. 

PUPPET BARGE W9 

Box Office: 020 7249 6876 

25 Mar – 23 Apr 

The Flight of Babuscha Baboon 

The story of a baboon who wants to fly to the moon in 

a hot air balloon. She meets an elephant whose life is 

threatened by ivory hunters. Can the baboon save the 

elephant? Ages 3+ 

SADLER’S WELLS THEATRE EC1R 

Box Office: 020 7863 8000 www.sadlerswells.com 

14 - 15 Apr Vuelos 

Take flight with multi award-winning 

company Aracaladanza, as they return to the UK with 

their delightful show, inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s 

quest to make man fly. Ages 5+. 

12 May Goldilocks and the 

Three Bears 

Goldilocks is looking for an adventure and she soon finds 

her way to a hidden house in the forest. With a family 

of friendly bears and bowls of delicious porridge, this 

charming ballet is just right. 

SOUTHBANK CENTRE SE1 

Box Office: 020 7960 4200 

9 Apr Tongue Fu for Kids 

Take along your children to a lively show where 

poems, songs, stories, games and improvisation 

meet. Ages 7-10. 

UNICORN SE1 

Box Office: 020 7645 0560 

Until 9 Apr 

Jeramee, Hartleby and Oooglemore 

Revelling in delightful innocence and glorious 

stupidity, this surprising and surreal encounter involves 

three people who have a lot to say but only three words 

with which to say it. Ages 3+. 

Until 15 Apr The Velveteen Rabbit 

First published in 1922, this classic American tale 

loses nothing of its power, magic and charm in this 

bold and adventure-filled adaptation for the Unicorn 

stage. Ages 5+. 

BOX OFFICE 


PINBOARD 

Pinboard 

THE BEST WEEK 

OF THE SUMMER 

HOLIDAYS ! 

Stagecoach Performing Arts 

schools run fantastic weekly 

classes where children learn to 

Act, Sing and Dance. Our classes 

make children feel great about 

themselves and what they can 

achieve - many of our students go on to a career in the Performing Arts, but 

many more just grow into confident adults, doing well in life! 

Did you know that Stagecoach also runs courses in the summer holidays? Any 

child aged X to X is welcome to take part in these. For 5 fabulous days, they work 

with our professional tutors to learn new skills and put together a show - this year you 

can choose from 'Matilda' (Stagecoach Barnet) or 'Beauty and the Beast' (Stagecoach 

Southgate). 

From the moment students arrive at the workshop they’ll be caught up in the 

excitement of fun, hard work and creativity whilst making lots of new friends. Whether 

your child is already an experienced performer, or has never stood on a stage, our 

wonderful tutors will know how to get the best out of them. You'll be amazed at what 

they can do in a week - and you'll get to see it on the Friday evening, when they will 

perform it to you. Dates are 21 - 25th August and booking is open now. 

Stagecoach also offer weekly classes on Saturdays Stagecoach 

Highgate - 0808 208 5134 highgate@stagecoach.co.uk, 

Barnet - 0808 208 5134 barnet@stagecoach.co.uk, 

Southgate - 0208 868 9993 southgate@stagecoach.co.uk 

LITTLE THINGS CAN CHANGE A 

FOSTER CHILD'S LIFE 

There are many reasons why a child may be unable to stay with their birth 

parents and when this happens, the local authority has a duty to find them 

an alternative place to stay: foster care is one of the solutions. 

Hackney still needs more foster carers to help make a difference to the lives of local 

children coming into care. 

Hackney believe that all children and young people deserve positive childhood 

experiences and foster carers play an important role in achieving the best possible 

outcome for children in care. Working with the Council, foster carers provide a safe, 

stable, nurturing and supportive environment for children and young people to reside, 

until they are able to return to their families or live independently. 

Foster carers are provided with comprehensive support 

and training as well as financial support that recognises 

experience and professional development. 

To foster for Hackney, you just need to have space in 

your heart and home and a dedication to help us care for 

our vulnerable children and young people. 

For more information about fostering with Hackney, 

please call the Freephone service line on 

0800 0730 418 or email fostering. 

recruitment@hackney.gov.uk 

ANNA FIORENTINI 

THEATRE & FILM SCHOOL 

Join award-winning Anna Fiorentini Theatre & Film School this Easter and 

Summer. Students, aged 4–18, follow a part-time timetable of drama/film, 

singing and dance all taught by leading industry professionals at branches in 

Hackney, Camden, Greenwich and Docklands. 

They are also holding an Easter Holiday School from 3 – 7 April where your child can 

experience a Musical Adventure as they explore some of the best loved shows from 

the West End and Broadway. 

Although the school boasts about the professional work many of its students have 

gained via its agency, including leading roles on TV, Film and on the West End stage, it 

is just as proud of the academic achievements that its students attain due to increased 

confidence, self-esteem and a new thirst for learning. Students are encouraged to have 

fun at Oscar Nights, get involved with the Performance Troupe (which tours to hospitals, 

care homes and homes for the elderly), take LAMDA exams and take part in shows, 

amongst other activities. To support their ethos of inclusivity, the school holds a number 

of fundraising events to help those that may struggle with fees. 

To book an Obligation Free taster day for the term starting in April, contact hello@ 

annafiorentini.com. If you can’t wait until then, sign up to the Easter Holiday School. 

Parents – are you jealous of all these opportunities for your children? Stage & the 

City offers fun adult classes with all profits going to the Fiorentini Foundation providing 

bursaries for the kids. Visit www.annafiorentini.com or www.stageandthecity.com 

for more information. 

ENJOY EVERYONE’S FAVOURITE 

RAGS-TO-RICHES STORY 

A beautifully adapted ballet version for children aged three upwards. 

Cinderella is tormented by her stepsisters and she can only dream of attending the 

Prince’s glamourous ball. Abandoned to an evening of drudgery, she is visited by her 

Fairy Godmother who transforms her into a glittering Princess who shall go to the ball. 

With a narrator to help the young audience follow the story, and a shortened version 

of Prokofiev’s ravishing score, this is the perfect introduction to the magic of ballet, and a 

fantastic family day out. 

This unique collaboration between English National Ballet and English National Ballet 

School is choreographed by George Williamson and performed by second year students of 

English National Ballet School. 

My First Ballet: Cinderella is at the Peacock Theatre from Thursday 11 to Saturday 22 April 

2017. Book your tickets now at peacocktheatre.com or call 020 7863 8000. 



FOCUS ON EDUCATION

FOCUS ON EDUCATION 

Aweswim 

Aweswim offer swimming lessons for babies, pre-schoolers, 

children, competitive swimmers and adults. 

We are an established swim school and our class sizes are a maximum 

of 4 pupils and our teachers are in the water to provide a one to one 

experience in a group setting. 

Our locations are Golders Green and Kingsbury. 

Our Kingsbury location is an ideal temperature for babies and 

toddlers to learn in. 

Mixed and single sexed lessons are available at Golders Green 

Please contact our office on 020 8819 3567 or email 

contactus@aweswim.co.uk for more information. 

Fun Study Camp at 

Leaders are Readers 

Summer School 

Over the past nine years, the 

Leaders are Readers Summer 

Schools have become established 

as the academic camp for children 

aged 3+ to 11 in London and 

surrounding areas. The summer school is designed to be challenging 

yet fun. Children develop strategies and skills in critical thinking, 

comprehension, reading, creative writing, language and vocabulary, 

mathematical reasoning, verbal and non-verbal reasoning. They also 

prepare for 11+, 10+, 8+, 7+, 5+, 4+ and learn how to excel in these 

assessments. Students make educational strides while enjoying fun 

break times and creating friendships. 

Ninety-five percent of parents say that their child gained selfconfidence 

at the Leaders are Readers Summer School and one told 

Primary Times, “My child learnt how to read in a short period.” The 

aim at summer school is to cover a year’s essential work in 3 weeks, 

fill in learning gaps, reverse the trend of summer learning loss and 

prepare children on advanced topics to enable them to zoom ahead 

when they return to school in September. The Saturday school also 

keeps the children ahead of their peers. The experience of success 

during summer school can provide a long term boost to children’s selfesteem 

and confidence. 

Call 01992 651 300 or visit www.leadersarereaders.co.uk to book a 

trial day and free assessment at the site in Southgate. 


How parents can reduce test stress 

Exams can be highly stressful at any age, but here are the two main 

tactics parents can use to reduce stress: 

GET ORGANISED Starting preparations early can dramatically reduce stress 

and panic closer to the test date. Make sure your child has everything they 

need, from coloured pens to study guides. Ensure their work space at home 

is comfortable and quiet enough for their needs. 

ROUTINE REALLY HELPS and regular breaks are vital to avoid feeling 

overwhelmed. Schedule in small treats and outings, and ensure they wind 

down properly before bed time. 

PROVIDE LOVE AND SUPPORT Never underestimate the positive impact you 

can have simply by being a supportive parent. Show an interest, encourage 

them, try to motivate them by establishing a feel-good factor about the 

learning, and let them know you are proud of how hard they are working. 

Encourage them to ask for help if they need it. 

ON THE DAY of an exam or test, your job is simply to ensure your child has a 

good breakfast and sets off feeling calm and positive, with everything they 

need for their exam. No last-minute testing or questioning. 

REMEMBER, all your children need to know is that you love them and that 

no exam result can affect that. 

JK EDUCATE offers bespoke support for children’s learning, with 

academic assessments, specialist tutoring, entrance exam preparation 

and study skills. 

FOCUS ON EDUCATION 

Contact one of our experienced 

consultants on 020 3488 0754 

or via jkeducate.co.uk 


www.primarytimes.net/north_london

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