PTOxon_OHT17_lo

45,000 copies for families of
Primary School Children
Oxfordshire
OCTOBER ISSUE N o 111
9TH Oct– 26th Nov 2017

Dear Reader
Welcome to our October issue.
We are delighted to bring you this issue which is full of
fun and exciting events and activities, including meeting
magical monsters at the River & Rowing Museum and
Halloween fun at Marriotts Walk in Witney!
In our WOW section we have a fantastic selection of events
for you to choose from that are taking place across the
region including Round Table Firework Display at South
Park and building a bat box at Earth Trust! We have even
more events on our website www.primarytimes.net/
oxfordshire if you need extra inspiration when planning
activities with your children.
Panto season is now upon us – check out our Box Office
section for child friendly productions appearing in a
theatre near you. It is always such a thrill to watch children
as they become engrossed in panto mayhem! Book now
to save disappointment.
Competitions in this issue include family tickets to see
Jack and the Beanstalk and Dick Whittington, plus a
chance to design the Primary Times Christmas card,
see page 22 for details.
As always, we love to hear your news so please email
marion@schoolspublishing.co.uk if you have something to
celebrate.
Marion, Marie, Carol & Charlotte
Contents
Inside this issue...
Calling all
families
and teachers!
Remember to send in
your news for our news
pages – we would love
to hear from you!
Don’t forget
to visit us
online at
www.primarytimes.net
/oxfordshire
4 News & Views
6 WOW
10 Fireworks
12 Halloween
17 Focus on Schools
20 Box Office
22 Competitions
Back
Cover Boswells Voucher
contents
The Primary Times Team
Editor:
Marion McAdam
marion@schoolspublishing.co.uk
Sales:
Marie McArthur
ptoxon@schoolspublishing.co.uk
TEL: 01491 411848
Production:
Carol George
production@schoolspublishing.co.uk
Design:
Charlotte Morgan
Primary Times in Oxfordshire,
Schools Publishing Limited
Primary Times Magazine Group
Unit 1A, Thamesview Industrial Estate
Newtown Road, Henley on Thames
Oxfordshire RG9 1HG
TEL: 01491 411848 FAX: 01491 411416
www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire
...the UK’s biggest,
free ‘what’s on’
magazine for parents!
Primary Times in
Oxfordshire distributes
over 45,000 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 Oxfordshire. 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 Oxfordshire for their assistance in
distributing the magazine and for their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers who
have supported this publication and therefore made it possible. Please support their endeavours when and where you
can. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Primary
Times or with the relevant contributor. Primary Times is currently publishing over two million copies per issue under
franchise licences throughout Britain.
www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire | OCTOBER HALF TERM Issue Primary Times 3

news & views
oxfordshirenews
Do you have news to celebrate? We’d love to hear! Email marion@schoolspublishing.co.uk
www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire
As The Manor Prep School in Abingdon opened its
doors to a new school year today, it also welcomes
two new Harrisons! Harrison Read joins The Manor
as a Year 5 Form Teacher and will teach English
and Maths to the older children. Harrison is a keen
footballer and will also share his great skills on the
sports field. Harrison Thomas-Macaulay, age 7, joins
The Manor as one of the first group of boys to take
advantage of the new co-education status. The
Harrisons are pictured here on their first day at the
school. Harrison Read said of his new role “It is a real
pleasure joining the teaching team at The Manor Prep.
I look forward to the amazing opportunities it offers”.
Harrison Thomas-Macaulay pronounced on his first
day at The Manor “Everyone is really friendly here”.
www.manorprep.org
JIGFEST – for puzzle enthusiasts!
Do you love puzzles, then why not join Jigfest for their Exhibition of Puzzles
on 27th and 29th October from 2-5pm, and 28th October from 11am-5pm.
There will be puzzles to buy and make for all ages at Chinnor Methodist
Church, OX39 4PZ. Entry is £1 (accompanies children go free). For more
details contact 01844 351565
Award-Wining Primary
School Scoops Coveted Prize!
Stanford in the Vale CE Primary School’s
Gardening Club is rounded off a summer
filled with Gold Awards from RHS Wisley and
nominations for ‘RHS Gardening Team of the
Year 2017’, with another win. Children at the
Oxfordshire Primary School have been crowned
the champions of Wilkinson Sword’s Gardening
for Schools competition.
The competition challenged primary
schoolchildren to design their ideal fruit and
vegetable garden for their school. Hundreds of
youngsters submitted their painstakingly-planned
plots but in the end, there could be only one
winner.
The school Gardening Club operates once a
week, as an after-school activity and, as their
application letter points out, many children still
attend even once they have left the primary
school. Not only that, but the children have a
strong commitment to their community, and plant
up the borders at the entrance to the village every
year, and plant wildflowers in the park.
Supporting children with Down Syndrome
Sencos, TAs, Teachers, EY-KS3
Reading, writing and mathematics for
children with Down Syndrome and
complex needs
A new training course to summarise the
difficulties children with Down Syndrome and
complex needs encounter with reading, writing
and mathematics is available to book. It will
look at a range of evidence based strategies
and approaches to maximise their learning
potential.
The course is running from 9.15am-3.30pm
on 20 November 2017 at The Wheatley Centre.
To register your place go to the
SENSS training pages
https://oxfordshireschoolscpd.org.uk/cpd
Youngsters involved in a special
art project at Grove Library
received animal-themed books
as prizes for taking part
Children produced artwork inspired by Oxfordshire
Libraries’ Summer Reading Challenge – ‘Animal Agents’.
They created a display of around 50 colourful pictures
showing different animals disguised as secret agents with
sunglasses and hats.
The Friends of Grove Library generously agreed to give
every child who took part a prize of an animal story book
- and these were awarded by the Friends group’s former
Chairman, Brian Edwards.
Please visit the website for updates on prices, services,
free activities and resources: www.lookinside.org.uk
A new exhibition
celebrating the most
amazing historical
discoveries by local
people is set to open at
The Oxfordshire Museum
The display, 20 Years of Treasure -
The Portable Antiquities scheme in
Oxfordshire, marks two decades since
the Treasure Act was introduced to
ensure significant archaeological
finds were preserved for the nation.
All of the objects have been found by
local people and metal detectorists
across Oxfordshire. They include
treasure finds and also items that
have been recorded by the Portable
Antiquities Scheme – set up at the
same time as the Treasure Act - to
record details of finds that did not
class as treasure.
The exhibition opens on Saturday,
23 September at The Oxfordshire
Museum, Woodstock.
On Saturday 16th September, the employees (past
and present) of Primary Times magazine, took on
the challenge of a 10K walk in memory of their
former boss Steve Edwards who very sadly passed
away in December 2016. The Primary Times ladies
successfully raised over £2,800 for Sue Ryder
Hospice, Nettlebed. They embarked upon this
fund raising day to thank the staff of Sue Ryder
for looking after Steve and his family in the most
kindest and gentlest of ways. Thanks to everyone
who donated for their very generous support.
4
Primary Times OCTOBER HALF TERM Issue | www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire

Let Your Stars Shine at Stagecoach Performing Arts
Did you know that children who engage
in the arts are three times more likely to
get a degree, 20 times more likely to vote
in local and general elections and have
increased cognitive abilities? So why
wait? Stagecoach’s Early Stages classes
are for children aged 4 – 6. Children learn
through games and play as well as using the
performing arts to build confidence and skills
that will help carry them through school and
beyond into their futures.
Early Stages classes are available in all
locations in Oxfordshire, with classes running
mid-week and at weekends, please contact
local Principal for days and class availability,
or visit the website. Early Stages classes are
very popular, with classes opening regularly
across Oxfordshire. We are excited to be
opening a new Early Stages class on Fridays
in Thame.
Stagecoach also has classes beyond
Early Stages. Main Stages offers training
for students aged 7 – 18 with regular
performance opportunities and training from
industry professionals. Stagecoach welcomes
everyone to join, whether they want to
become the next West End Star and learn a
new skill.
At Stagecoach we believe in the potential
of every child and that the arts can develop
lifelong skills to help students with any career
they choose.
www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire | OCTOBER HALF TERM Issue Primary Times 5

what's on where
If you are looking for more inspiration, there
are over 350 events on our website
www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire
9 – 10 Oct
Abingdon Michaelmas Fair
Abingdon Town Centre OX14 3HG
www.abingdon.gov.uk
12pm Traditional street fair with
something for all ages.
11 – 15 Oct
Thame Arts & Literature
Festival
Thame OX9
www.talfestival.org
Various Times Annual festival for all ages.
Full programme available online.
13 Oct
Chiddler’s Hour:
Fantastic Mr Fox
Roald Dahl Museum HP16 0AL
www.roalddahl.com
10.30am Songs, crafts and play based
on storytelling. Cost £3 per child. Normal
museum admission applies.
T: 01494 892192
14 Oct
Family Day
Thomley HP18 9JZ
www.thomley.org.uk
10am For children with a
disability, their family and
friends. Booking essential. T:
01844 338380
Ancient Greece: Mythical
Monsters
Ashmolean OX1 2PH
www.ashmolean.org
2pm & 3.15pm Join the Ashventures
for stories, gallery hunts, games, object
handling and crafts. T: 01865 278000
Science Saturdays
Museum of Natural History OX1 3PW
www.oum.ox.ac.uk
2pm Come and investigate real natural
history specimens with university
scientists. Suitable for families with
children ages 8+ years. T: 01865 282537
Buggy Balloon Battle
The Discovery Zone OX1 1BY
www.scienceoxford.com
10am & 12.30pm Create a radio controller
by programming BBC Micro:bits then test
out your robot buggy driving skills and see
how many balloons can be popped in the
arena. Suitable for ages 9-12 years. Cost
£8 per child. Online booking essential.
Don’t forget to
say you saw it in
Primary Times!
We check
listings carefully but
event details and prices
may be subject to change.
Please always check
with the venue.
14 – 15 Oct
Autumn Deer Safaris
Bucklebury Farm Park RG7 6RR
www.buckleburyfarmpark.co.uk
To Be Confirmed. Make an early
start for one of the highlights of
the year in the deer park, the
autumn rut…hear the stags
roaring and glimpse the clash
of antlers through the morning
mist. Breakfast included. Booking
essential. T: 0118 971 4002
Bonkers for Conkers
Gulliver’s Land MK15 0DT
www.gulliversfun.co.uk
10.30am This Autumn Gulliver’s are going
bonkers for conkers and offering discounted
theme park tickets when you bring along 5
conkers per person. Booking essential.
T: 01925 444 888
15 Oct
Diesels Day
Leighton Buzzard Railway LU7 4TN
www.buzzrail.co.uk
10am Each of the day’s four
departures will be hauled by a
loco from a different decade.
T: 01525 373888
Apple Day
Cogges Manor Farm OX28 3LA
www.cogges.org.uk
11am A celebration of all things
apple! T: 01993 772602
Wood Crafts
Combe Mill OX29 8ET
www.combemill.org
10.30am All machinery working under steam
power. T: 01993 358694
Apple Day
Red Lion Pub OX10 0RT
www.brightwellorchards.co.uk
12pm A giant display of over 80 heritage
varieties of apples and pears all grown in
gardens and orchards in the village. Apple
pressing, tastings, stalls and children’s
activities. T: 01491 837373
19 Oct – 21 Jan 2018
The BFG in Pictures
River and Rowing Museum RG9 1BF
www.rrm.co.uk
10am Everyone’s favourite giant comes to
Henley in this magical exhibition of Quentin
Blake’s illustrations. T: 01491 415600
6
Primary Times OCTOBER HALF TERM Issue | www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire

21 Oct
Sponge and Spiker Spoon Puppets
Roald Dahl Museum HP16 0AL
www.roalddahl.com
11.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm & 3pm Hear more
about James’ loathsome aunts and then
make your own spoon puppet versions. Cost
£3 per person. Suitable for ages 4+. Booking
essential. T: 01494 892192
Family Day
Thomley HP18 9JZ
www.thomley.org.uk
10am For children with a
disability, their family and
friends. Booking essential.
T: 01844 338380
Autumn Fair
Harcourt Arboretum OX44 9PX
www.botanic-garden.ox.ac.uk
11am Immerse yourself in
wonderful woodland stories and
traditional English folk music, enjoy children’s
craft activities and take-away some delicious
local produce. T: 01865 343501
Science Saturdays
Museum of Natural History OX1 3PW
www.oum.ox.ac.uk
2pm Come and investigate real natural
history specimens with university scientists.
Suitable for families with children ages 8+
years. T: 01865 282537
Nick Cope’s Songbook
The Story Museum OX1 1BP
www.storymuseum.org.uk
10.30am Monkeys, bears, socks and mud!
Nick Cope sings about everything children
are REALLY interested in, and you’re invited to
join in. Cost £5 per person. T: 01865 305305
Family Arts Takeover
North Wall Arts Centre OX2 7JN
www.thenorthwall.com
10am Behind-the-scenes theatre tours, very
special shows and a huge range of wondrous
workshops. T: 01865 319450
21 – 29 Oct
Half Term Happenings
The Story Museum OX1 1BP
www.storymuseum.org.uk
Various Times Come along this half term for a
packed programme of events and workshops.
Some activities require booking.
T: 01865 790050
Nocturnal Nature Trail
Upton House OX15 6HT
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
11am Use the trail to identify animals that
come out at night and learn all about how
they live and appear during the night hours.
Cost £2 per child. T: 01295 670266
Zombie NERF Zones
Gulliver’s Land MK15 0DT
www.gulliversfun.co.uk
10.30am Watch out as the Zombies move
through the NERF arena, just make sure you
have your NERF Blaster at the ready! Booking
essential. T: 01925 444 888
21 – 30 Oct
Halloween Happenings
Bucklebury Farm Park RG7 6RR
www.buckleburyfarmpark.co.uk
9.30am Giant Pumpkin Hunt & Haunted
House plus face painting. T: 0118 9714002
It is physically
impossible for pigs
to look up into
the sky.
21 Oct – 5 Nov
The Great Pumpkin Hunt
Waterperry Gardens OX33 1LA
www.waterperrygardens.co.uk
10am Find the pumpkins hidden in the
ornamental gardens and win a prize. Cost
£2 per child. T: 01844 339254
22 Oct
Bogtrotting Baddies Party
Roald Dahl Museum HP16 0AL
www.roalddahl.com
11.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm & 3pm Celebrate
Roald Dahl’s funny but bad
characters and play baddy
bingo and other party
games. Cost £2 per person.
Suitable for ages 4+.
Booking essential.
T: 01494 892192
Princesses & Pirates Dress-
Up Day
Leighton Buzzard Railway LU7 4TN
www.buzzrail.co.uk
10am Free travel for accompanied children
who have dressed for the occasion.
T: 01525 373888
23 Oct
Trunchpots
Roald Dahl Museum HP16 0AL
www.roalddahl.com
11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm & 4pm
Find out more on how Roald Dahl made
Miss Trunchbull a bogtrotting baddy
and then make your own version - as
a clay pot!
Diwali
River and Rowing Museum RG9 1BF
www.rrm.co.uk
11am Celebrate the festival of lights and
have fun making paper lanterns and
Rangoli designs. Free with admission.
T: 01491 415600
Build a Bat Box
Earth Trust OX14 4QZ
www.earthtrust.org.uk
10.30am & 1.30pm Help bats prepare for
hibernation by making a shelter to put in
your garden. Booking essential.
T: 01865 407792
23 – 25 Oct
Bats, Cats, Witches & Charms
Museum of Natural History OX1 3PW
www.oum.ox.ac.uk
1pm Activities exploring creatures of the
night, magic charms and mysteries to be
solved. T: 01865 282537
Bats, Cats, Witches & Charms
Pitt Rivers Museum OX1 3PP
www.prm.ox.ac.uk
1pm Activities exploring creatures of the
night, magic charms and mysteries to be
solved. T: 01865 282537
24 Oct
Rastamouse! with Michael
de Souza
Roald Dahl Museum HP16 0AL
www.roalddahl.com
11am & 12.30pm Join Michael De Souza,
the creator of CBeebies’ Rastamouse and
da Easy Crew for a fun family time as
Rastamouse does battle with baddies!
Cost £3 per person. Suitable for ages 4+.
Booking essential. T: 01494 892192
Dyslexia Assessments offers
educational assessments for
children who are not progressing
as well as they might. An
assessment can identify exactly
where their difficulties lie and
recommend strategies for support
to enable them to achieve their
full potential.
WHAT’S ON WHERE
www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire | OCTOBER HALF TERM Issue Primary Times 7

what's on where
The need to speak out and stay safe
Did you know that in every primary school class, an average of at
least two children have suffered abuse or neglect?
It is a shocking statistic but thanks to the NSPCC’s Speak Out Stay
Safe service, children are being given the confidence to speak out
and seek help.
The service delivers essential safeguarding information to children
aged four to 11 in a lively and memorable way.
Child-friendly, interactive assemblies and workshops teach children
about abuse in all its forms and how to spot the signs.
The service also helps children understand who they can turn to for
help, including the NSPCC’s Childline service.
Speak Out Stay Safe assemblies are delivered by specifically trained
NSPCC volunteers who know how important it is for children to
have this knowledge.
The service spoke to 1,711,275 children and visited 7,756 schools
across the UK in 2016/17 alone. That’s down to the hard work of our
volunteers.
Now the NSPCC needs your help to reach even more children.
By signing up to become a volunteer for the Speak Out Stay Safe
service, you can help the children’s charity change lives by delivering
these vital assemblies and workshops.
The sooner you volunteer, the sooner you can make a difference and
help keep children safe from abuse.
For more information on becoming a volunteer for Speak Out. Stay
Safe in your local area, please visit www.nspcc.org.uk/volunteer
or call 0121 227 7577
Sponge and Spiker
Spoon Puppets
Roald Dahl Museum HP16 0AL
www.roalddahl.com
11.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm & 3pm Hear
more about James’ loathsome aunts
and then make your own spoon puppet
versions. Cost £3 per person. Suitable for
ages 4+. Booking essential.
T: 01494 892192
Gentle Giant Mask
River and Rowing Museum RG9 1BF
www.rrm.co.uk
10.30am Make a massive mask out of
willow and paper: learn fun new skills
in construction and modelling. Suitable
for ages 7-11 years. Cost £8.50. Booking
essential. T: 01491 415600
Creative Movement - Family
Workshop
Cornerstone Arts Centre OX11 7NE
www.cornerstone-arts.org
10.30am Have fun moving and
playing with your child in a
creative workshop for
parents and children. Cost
£8 for adult & child. Suitable
for ages 4-7 years.
T: 01235 515144
Mud Pie Mania
Earth Trust OX14 4QZ
www.earthtrust.org.uk
10am Drop in for Mud Pie Mania -
buckets of mud and buckets of fun!
Suggested donation £4 per child.
T: 01865 407792
Dreamt is the only
English word that ends in
the letters “mt”
24 – 25 Oct
Jumping Jack’s Dance Intensive
Oxford Playhouse OX1 2LW
www.oxfordplayhouse.com
10am Explore the different styles of dance
used in the Oxford Playhouse pantomime and
learn some of the dance routines from the
show. Suitable for ages 8-13 years. Booking
essential. T: 01865 305305
24 – 26 Oct
Bizarre Bugs and Brilliant Beasties
Sutton Courtenay Wildlife Reserve OX14 4TE
www.bbowt.org.uk
10am Discover more about the creepy, slimy,
slithery things that make their home on our
nature reserve. Cost £4 per child. Booking
essential. T: 01235 862 024
25 Oct
Vermicious Knid Masks
Roald Dahl Museum HP16 0AL
www.roalddahl.com
11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm & 4pm Make
a menacing mask to look like a
Vermicious Knid - the villains
from Charlie and the Great
Glass Elevator. Cost £3 per
person. Suitable for ages 4+.
Booking essential.
T: 01494 892192
Viking Voyages
River and Rowing Museum RG9 1BF
www.rrm.co.uk
2pm Discover how the Vikings sailed across
the world and create your own long-ship.
Where will it take you..? Suitable for ages
7-11 years. Cost £8.50. Booking essential.
T: 01491 415600
Brilliant Bats
River and Rowing Museum RG9 1BF
www.rrm.co.uk
10.30am Make a glitzy 3D bat to hang
on its roost. Find out how bats
chat to each other with a high
pitched code and make up
your own code, using torches
to light up dark autumn
nights. Suitable for ages 4-7
years. Cost £8.50. Booking
essential. T: 01491 415600
Art in the Autumn
Oxford Botanic Garden OX1 4AZ
www.botanic-garden.ox.ac.uk
11am Make a beautiful fabric wallhanging
and an autumn leaf lantern.
T: 01865 286690
Camera, Lines, Action
Cornerstone Arts Centre OX11 7NE
www.cornerstone-arts.org
10.30am Create a mash up of digital
art, words, photos, music and
animation with professional
filmmakers and musicians. Suitable
for ages 7-14 years. Booking essential.
T: 01235 515144
Wildlife Wednesday at
Neptune Wood
Earth Trust OX14 4QZ
www.earthtrust.org.uk
2pm Come out and play, and discover
more about this fascinating and underexplored
area of our nature reserve in
Little Wittenham. Suggested donation £2
per child. T: 01865 407792
Tigers have striped skin,
not just striped fur.
25 – 26 Oct
Royalists and Roundheads
Ashmolean OX1 2PH
www.ashmolean.org
1pm Create your own 17th
Century accessories and
find out about exciting
Civil War objects.
T: 01865 278000
Comic Capers
Abingdon County Museum
OX14 3HG
www.abingdon.gov.uk
10.30am & 1pm Superheroes are in the
museum - from Disney characters on
spoons to homemade superhero masks.
T: 01235 523703
25 – 27 Oct
Haunted Forest Lantern Trail
Bucklebury Farm Park RG7 6RR
www.buckleburyfarmpark.co.uk
4pm Are you brave enough to journey
into the Haunted Forest at night?
Suitable for children aged 4-10 years.
Booking essential. T: 0118 9714002
26 Oct
Captain Beastie
with Lucy Coats
Roald Dahl Museum HP16 0AL
www.roalddahl.com
12pm, 1.30pm & 3pm Meet children’s
writer Lucy Coats for a rollicking god time
with drawing, storytelling, lots of Yo Ho
Ho and singing, but NO rum!. Cost £3 per
person. Suitable for ages 4+. Booking
essential. T: 01494 892192
8
Primary Times OCTOBER HALF TERM Issue | www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire

The Bahamas once
had an undersea
post office.
Magical Monsters!
River and Rowing Museum RG9 1BF
www.rrm.co.uk
10.30am Explore a world of myths and
monsters for Halloween! Enjoy spooky
storytelling and get crafty designing
bouncing spiders, pumpkin masks and
plate monsters. Make monster feet to
follow the mythical monster trail through
the galleries and collect a spooky,
Bogeyman Slime Making
Workshop
The Story Museum OX1 1BP
www.scienceoxford.com
11am & 2pm Listen to the story of The
Bogeyman and then discover the secret
to making the perfect slime. Suitable for
ages 5-8 years. Cost £7 per child. Online
booking essential.
Family Bushcraft
Earth Trust OX14 4QZ
www.earthtrust.org.uk
10am Explore the woods, make shelters,
learn how to make a fire and use a knife
safely. Booking essential. T: 01865 407792
27 Oct
Disgusterous Dinner Plates
Roald Dahl Museum HP16 0AL
www.roalddahl.com
11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm & 4pm Find
out about some of the revolting tricks Mr
and Mrs Twit played on each other, then
decorate a disgusterous plate to take
home. Cost £3 per person. Suitable for
ages 4+. Booking essential.
T: 01494 892192
A Night at the Museum
Wallingford Museum OX10 0DB
www.wallingfordmuseum.org.uk
6pm A chance to see the current
exhibitions and also take a look ‘behind
the scenes’ at a time when the museum is
usually closed. Adults £2.50, children free.
T: 01491 832224
Spooks and Ghouls
Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum OX20 1SN
www.sofo.org.uk
10am Fun educational activities for
children aged 6-9 years. Cost £7 per child.
Booking essential. T: 01993 810204
Tree Climbing
Earth Trust OX14 4QZ
www.bigtreeclimbing.co.uk
10am Use ropes and harnesses to explore
Little Wittenham Wood’s treetops. Online
booking essential.
27 – 29 Oct
Founder’s Festival
Ashmolean OX1 2PH
www.ashmolean.org
10am A special weekend of activities to
celebrate Elias Ashmole’s 400th birthday.
Free event, booking required for some
activities. T: 01865 278000
28 Oct
Mix n Match Baddies Book
Roald Dahl Museum HP16 0AL
www.roalddahl.com
12pm, 1.30pm & 3pm Make your own
bogtrotting baddies book with artist Ruby
Runnalls. Cost £3 per person. Suitable for ages
4+. Booking essential. T: 01494 892192
Science Saturdays
Museum of Natural History OX1 3PW
www.oum.ox.ac.uk
2pm Come and investigate real natural
history specimens with university scientists.
Suitable for families with children ages 8+
years. T: 01865 282537
29 Oct
Sponge and Spiker Spoon Puppets
Roald Dahl Museum HP16 0AL
www.roalddahl.com
11.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm & 3pm Hear more
about James’ loathsome aunts and then make
your own spoon puppet versions. Cost £3
per person. Suitable for ages 4+. Booking
essential. T: 01494 892192
Spooks and Ghouls
Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway
OX39 4ER
www.chinnorrailway.co.uk
10am Ride on the steam hauled Ghost train
with a bunch of spooks and ghouls. Children
in fancy dress travel for a pound and receive a
treat. T: 01844 353535
Halloween and Magic Family Night
Thomley HP18 9JZ
www.thomley.org.uk
5pm Halloween family night. T: 01844 338380
Pumpkin Day
Cogges Manor Farm OX28 3LA
www.cogges.org.uk
2pm Bring in your pumpkins to take part in a
competition to find the heaviest home-grown
pumpkin and best carved lantern.
T: 01993 772602
Fungus Foray
Batsford Arboretum GL56 9QB
www.batsarb.co.uk
10.30am & 1.30pm Join expert forayer, Dave
Champion, along with the Cotswold Fungus
Group for a walk through the Arboretum to
discover the wonderful world of fungi.
T: 01386 701441
4 Nov
Magical Tales with Sandra Agard
Roald Dahl Museum HP16 0AL
www.roalddahl.com
12pm, 1.30pm & 3pm The Museum’s
Centenary Storyteller-in-Residence returns to
share marvellous tales of magic and wishes.
Cost £3 per person. Suitable for ages 4+.
Booking essential. T: 01494 892192
Community Day
Thomley HP18 9JZ
www.thomley.org.uk
10am For all children with or without a
disability. Booking essential. T: 01844 338380
Science Saturdays
Museum of Natural History OX1 3PW
www.oum.ox.ac.uk
2pm Come and investigate real natural
history specimens with university scientists.
Suitable for families with children ages 8+
years. T: 01865 282537
WHAT’S ON WHERE
www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire | OCTOBER HALF TERM Issue Primary Times 9

FIREWORKS
Firework
Displays
28th October
Nettlebed Fireworks 2017
Sue Ryder Hospice, Nettlebed
Come and see the spectacular firework
display and bonfire at Sue Ryder, and
enjoy food and drink stalls, child and
adult tombolas, and the hotly anticipated
children’s Halloween fancy dress
competition. Help support the incredible
care they provide there at the Nettlebed
Hospice and bring the family! Gates open at
5.30pm and the fireworks kick off at 7.15pm
For more information please see
www.sueryder.org
3rd November
Old Swan & Minster Mill
Minster Lovell OX29 0RN
Celebrate Guy Fawkes night at the Old Swan
& Minster Mill with our bonfire and fireworks
party. In addition, we will be serving a
delicious hog roast and there will be a beer
& wine tent. Adult £5 children under 12 go
free. The evening starts at 6pm.
Pre-booking is not required.
www.oldswanminstermill.co.uk
4th November
Oxford Round Table
Fireworks 2017
South Park, Oxford
The Oxford Round Table fireworks display is
the really big one in the area with maximum
wow factor. Held at South Park in Oxford
and run by the Oxford Round Table, this
year will be their 50th display! Doors open
at 4.30pm and fireworks from 6.45pm. Buy
your tickets online.
http://oxfordfireworks.co.uk/
Charlbury Cricket Club -
Bonfire & Fireworks
Chipping Norton OX7 3QG
We are looking forward to another great
bonfire and fireworks display by the
‘Nick Merry Team’ and to welcoming
everyone to another fantastic evening at
Charlbury Cricket Club.
www.charlburycricketclub.com
Marlow Bottom Fireworks
Extravaganza!
Burford School, SL7 3PQ
Marlow Bottom will once again be
entertained by the multi-awardwinning
Star Fireworks at ‘Marlow
Bottom Fireworks Extravaganza 2017’.
Acclaimed as the best firework display
around Marlow; always popular and
often sold-out. Come with the family,
enjoy the side shows, bar, food, music
and, of course, the amazing sky
spectacular. Book early - we often
sell out before the day. Gates open at
5.30pm with the fireworks starting
between 7-8pm.
Tickets from https://www.eventbrite.
co.uk/e/marlow-bottom-fireworks-
2017-tickets-37965572048?aff=es2
Brackley Town
Fireworks
Magdalen College School,
High Street
Brackley Town Fireworks including
children’s fun fair, charity stalls and
refreshments available. Gates open at
5pm, fireworks start at 7pm.
www.brackleynorthants-tc.gov.uk
Charity Firework
Spectacular
Pringle Field, Bicester OX26 6WD
A night of fun with Fireworks, Fairground,
Bonfire, Music, Hot Food stands and
a stand run by Bicester Ladies Circle.
Tickets will available on the gate, cheaper
advanced tickets will be available online
and also Sun Wah, Wah Hong and Bicester
Village Visitors centre. 6-9pm.
www.bicester.roundtable.co.uk
Wallingford Bonfire &
Fireworks
Kinecroft, Wallingford OX10 0DT
WALLINGFORD 1155 take great pride in
organising Wallingford’s annual bonfire
night celebrations on the Kinecroft, with
a huge bonfire and enormous firework
display the event attracts thousands of
people from the Wallingford district.
6-8pm.
www.wallingford1155.co.uk
Boundary Park
Big Blast
Boundary Park, Didcot OX11 7AR
Join us on the terrace at Boundary Park
for a spectacular view of all the local
fireworks displays, and enjoy mini indoor
displays of our own. We’ll be serving Hot
Dogs, Chilli, Beef Burgers and warming
soup alongside our Felix Firework Punch.
We’ll be raising money for the Felix Fund
- Bomb Disposal Charity. Then a disco
from ynottreatyourself.co.uk will keep us
dancing into the night. Evening starts at
8pm. Children welcome until 9.30pm.
www.boundarypark.org
Faringdon Bonfire and
Fireworks
Faringdon House, SN7 8AQ
Traditional fireworks evening organised by
Faringdon Rotary. 6pm
www.faringdon.org
Fireworks Fiesta
Pangbourne Primary School Field,
RG8 7LB
Fantastic Firework Display, huge bonfire and
barbecue. 5.30pm
www.fopps.org.uk
5th November
King’s Sutton Fireworks
King’s Sutton Playing Fields,
Banbury OX17
The annual fireworks display will again
take place and will be organised by Kings
Sutton Playing Fields Association.
www.kingssutton.org
Witney RFC Bonfire &
Firework Spectacular
RFC Witney, OX29 9UH
It’s a big one this year with twice the
firepower than last year! Limited parking so
please make use of the drop off and pick up
zone. Beer tent on the field with hogroast,
burgers and mulled wine.
http://bit.ly/2f5oBoJ
We check listings carefully but
event details and prices may be
subject to change.
Please always check with the venue.
10
Primary Times OCTOBER HALF TERM Issue | www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire

HALLOWEEN
Making Autumn
Marriotts Walk Shopping
Centre Witney offers easy
access and convenient
stress free shopping, with
FREE multi-storey parking.
Visit Marriotts Walk and enjoy a great
place to meet, eat and shop.
Located in the heart of Witney,
Marriotts Walk boasts leading fashion
retailers and big high street brands.
Accessorize. Cineworld. Cotton Traders.
Crew Clothing. Debenhams, Dorothy
Perkins. Fat Face. Fresh. JoJo Maman
Bebe. M&S. Monsoon, New Look. Phase
Eight Tog24. Evans/Wallis. Whittard
Of Chelsea. Café Rouge. Caffè Nero.
Frankie & Benny’s. Subway.
Marriotts Walk regularly hosts live
events, seasonal entertainment and has
a premier cinema complex featuring the
latest film releases.
Marriotts Walk has something for every
age, taste and style.
Marriotts Walk Shopping Centre,
Witney OX28 6GW
Tel: 01993 704262
Email: info@marriottswalk.co.uk
www.marriottswalk.co.uk
River & Rowing Museum
Head over to Henley’s River &
Rowing Museum this half term for a
magical day out! The Museum will
be bursting with mythical monsters,
brilliant bats and gentle giants.
Families can follow the Mythical
Monster Trail through the Museum’s
galleries and collect a spooky, tasty
treat! A special family fun day on
Thursday 26 Oct, 10.30am – 4pm,
will include spooky storytelling,
pumpkin mask making and lots
of other creative craft activities.
Parking is free, and the new café
will be serving seasonal treats and
Halloween cookies, making a visit to
Henley the perfect Halloween treat.
www.rrm.co.uk
Fright Night Fun at
Crocodiles of the World
Come and discover a world of
Crocodiles at the UK’s only Crocodile
Zoo. Here you’ll find big crocs, baby
crocs, cute crocs and some pretty
scary looking crocs too. Watch them
feed, learn all about their world and
hold a baby alligator. Plus, we’ve a
Komodo Dragon and special additions
to our outside area – Freddie
the Fishing Cat and two critically
endangered baby Tamarins. Are you
feeling brave? Come to our Fright
Night on Saturday 28th October,
when we shall be re-opening after
dark… To find out more and book your
tickets see our website.
www.crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk/halloween2017
Birdland
For fantastic feathered family fun this October
Half Term enjoy an exciting and educational
day out at Birdland. The beautiful surroundings
make it the perfect destination and the daily
holiday programme includes flamingo, penguin
and pelican feeds throughout the day.
Birdland, which celebrates its 60th anniversary
this year, cares for over 500 birds, ranging
from the UK’s only breeding colony of king
penguins and awesome birds of prey to parrots,
cassowaries and cranes in a mix of free-flying
and aviary displays.
Explore the Jurassic Journey trail to discover
the giant ancestors of all of today’s bird species.
Venture in to the prehistoric-themed landscape
which is home to more than 30 different lifesize
dinosaurs for an adventure.
www.birdland.co.uk
Waterperry Gardens
As Autumn rolls around and the nights
creep in there is still plenty to see and
do at Waterperry Gardens. Halloween
sees the return of the Pumpkin Hunt
in the gardens over half term from 21
Oct through to the 5 Nov. Find the
decorated pumpkins hidden around the
gardens and collect a prize at the end.
With the Gift Barn, Gallery, Museum,
Plant Centre and Teashop to visit it
makes a fun day out with plenty to do
for the whole family. The children’s
play area in the grounds, built by Earth
Wrights from Devon, has been a huge
success again this summer and will no
doubt be getting plenty more wear over
the Autumn. For more information visit
www.waterperrygardens.co.uk.
12
Primary Times OCTOBER HALF TERM Issue | www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire

a Scream!
Spook-tacular fun in store at
Castle Quay Shopping Centre
Creepy creatures, fun face painting, eerie
arts and crafts and a treasure hunt full of
treats (no tricks) will be coming to Castle
Quay Shopping Centre this Halloween.
Running from 11am to 4pm on Friday
27th October, the one-day event offers
frighteningly good fun for families at the
Banbury shopping centre.
Children can get up close and personal
with creepy creatures and fluffy friends with
a spooky animal and reptile show, then make
their very own Halloween creation at the arts
and crafts station.
Little monsters will also be able to get
their faces painted for free, plus there will
be sweets and treats to find on the centre’s
treasure hunt.
As well as the free Halloween fun taking
place, the stores at Castle Quay are full
of everything you need for a spook-tastic
Halloween. From costumes to party
decorations to trick or treating buckets and
sweets, head to stores such as Debenhams,
Claire’s, Clinton’s, Magical Story,
Accessorize, New Look, H&M and more.
That’s another thing #CrossedOffYourList.
For more information about events at Castle
Quay Shopping Centre, visit
www.castlequay.co.uk.
Museum of Natural History
Wow, I didn’t know that! Meet some of
Oxford’s top scientists at the Oxford
University Museum of Natural History
to discover just how surprising science
can be. There will be all sorts of fun
interactive demos for families to help
you to investigate, experiment to learn
more about the natural world. There’s
something for everyone at our biannual
science bonanza on Saturday 25th
November 2017. Family science fair
recommended for children aged 8+.
www.oum.ox.ac.uk
Fairytale Farm
We have a family friendly Halloween event
at Fairytale Farm this year, from Saturday
21st to Sunday 29th October, with free
games and activities for younger children.
This year we have free pumpkin carving,
spooky biscuit decorating and a chance
to get creative in our colouring corner
by entering our competition. And if you
come dressed up for the occasion you will
receive a free treat. We also have face
painting for a small extra charge.
Our late-night illuminations evening on
Saturday 28th October will be a special
Halloween-themed event with
an all-in discounted farm admission and
food package. www.fairytalefarm.co.uk
Cotswold Wildlife Park
Bring your little monsters to the
Cotswold Wildlife Park over the half
term holidays. Let them run off steam
in their adventure playground and
discover the spookier animals that they
have at the Park.
Peer at the Giant Anacondas
underwater, creep into the bat
house and watch them feast on fruit
kebabs! Sneak into our insect house
with Tarantulas and Death’s Head
Cockroaches enough to scare anyone!
October is a great time to visit with the
gardens reaching their late summer
peak and the leaves turning into
Autumn hues. The Park is a Royal
Horticultural Society Partner Garden
and RHS members can get in to the
Cotswold Wildlife Park in October for
free with their membership card. (See
RHS website for T&Cs).
www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk
Spooky going-ons at the
Museum of Oxford
Join us for our Spooky Skeleton family day on Thursday
26th October, 10.30-3.30pm. You can find out about
our historic Dance of Death wall paintings, try brass
rubbing, handle medieval bones and have a go at
making your own dancing skeleton! This is a free event
(donations welcome).
From Monday 23rd to Friday 28th you can also
borrow a Halloween-themed backpack from the
museum (available from 10am to 5pm). Inside are
clues to help you find objects in our Explore Oxford
galleries. For all the latest information see
www.museumofoxford.org
www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire | OCTOBER HALF TERM Issue Primary Times 13

what's on where
Santas on the Run
Ho ho ho! Kickstart the countdown to Christmas by joining 2,500
Santa’s of all ages on this great festive 3.5k fun run or walk for a
good claus around the streets of Oxford. Taking place on Sunday
10th December, the money raised will help local terminally ill children
and young adults at Helen & Douglas House this Christmas. Free
Santa suit included.
Sign up now at www.hdh.org.uk
Santa’s Helpers can be contacted
on 01865 799150 or
events@helenanddouglas.org.uk.
We would like to thank all our
sponsors Hawkwell House, Benito’s
Hat, JACKfm and The Oxford Paper.
May the force be with you !!
– at Boswells Toy Department
this half-term
Situated in the very heart of Oxford, Boswells
Department Store boasts a whole first floor of
exciting and magical toys for all ages. This award
winning Toy Department has a real independent
feel and has been serving customers from one generation
after another. With over seven thousand different lines
you’ll be spoilt for choice, with well-known brands such as
Playmobil, Nerf, Steiff, Schleich and of course, Thomas the Tank
and Sylvanian Families, to name but a few . But it’s not only toys
for the little ones; great Jigsaws by Gibson and Ravensburger are
in abundance situated opposite wall to wall Board Games.
Boswells is a real centre for Lego too – all the new sets from Star
Wars to Lego City are arriving ready for your early Christmas
shopping. Look out for the special Lego Advent Calendars ,different
every year ,but always popular . Real Service is at the heart of the
store ,and if its advice you need their staff really know just the right
age appropriate gift for every occasion. So Half term is a great time
to come and have a look, and do some early Christmas shopping
and to help you out ……
Look out for the voucher
on the back cover of this
issue of Primary Times
Boswells Department Store,
1-4 Broad Street, Oxford OX1 3AG
www.boswells.co.uk
Marvellous Masks
Pitt Rivers Museum OX1 3PP
www.prm.ox.ac.uk
1pm Create a mask and look closely at some
from the Museum for inspiration.
T: 01865 282537
Gunpowder Plot
Soldiers of Oxfordshire
Museum OX20 1SN
www.sofo.org.uk
1pm Fun educational activities
for children aged 6-9 years. Cost
£7 per child. Booking essential.
T: 01993 810204
Round Table Fireworks
Oxford South Park OX4
www.experienceoxfordshire.org
6.45pm Traditional spectacular fireworks
display organised by Oxford Round Table.
Gates open 4.30pm with fireworks display
at 6.45pm.
Bicester round Table Fireworks
Pringle Field OX26
www.bicester.roundtable.co.uk
6pm Fireworks, fairground, bonfire, music
and hot food stands.
Fireworks and Bonfire
Faringdon House SN7 8AQ
www.faringdon.org
6pm Traditional fireworks evening organised
by Faringdon Rotary.
Firework Fiesta
Pangbourne Primary School Field RG8 7LB
www.fopps.org.uk
5.30pm Fantastic Firework Display, huge
bonfire and barbecue.
5 Nov
Didcot Family Fireworks
Didcot Football Club OX11 7GA
www.facebook.com/pg/
didcotfamilyfireworks/
To Be Confirmed Breath-taking musical
fireworks display for all the family.
Bonfire and Fireworks
Witney Rugby Club OX29 9U
www.pitchero.com/clubs/witneyrfc
6pm Annual community fireworks and
bonfire party.
11 Nov
Roald Dahl’s War
Roald Dahl Museum HP16 0AL
www.roalddahl.com
12pm, 1.30pm & 3pm Join former RAF pilot
Graham Laurie for some free family talks
to learn about Roald Dahl’s time in the RAF
during the Second World War. Free with
admission. Recommended for ages 8+ years.
T: 01494 892192
Family Day
Thomley HP18 9JZ
www.thomley.org.uk
10am For children with a disability, their
family and friends. Booking essential.
T: 01844 338380
Still Life Painting: Flowers, Bugs and
Skulls
Ashmolean OX1 2PH
www.ashmolean.org
2pm & 3.15pm Join the Ashventures for
stories, gallery hunts, games, object handling
and crafts. T: 01865 278000
Opposite sides of
dice always add
up to seven.
Science Saturdays
Museum of Natural History OX1 3PW
www.oum.ox.ac.uk
2pm Come and investigate real natural
history specimens with university
scientists. Suitable for families
with children ages 8+ years.
T: 01865 282537
Wolvercote
Craft Fair
Wolvercote Primary School
OX2 8AQ
11am – 4pm 30+ Stalls of
handmade crafts & vintage, including
jewellery, ceramics, textiles, kids clothes,
prints & Christmas decorations. Plus
workshops, live music, refreshments &
kids activities. £1 raffle entry.
T: 01865 558301
Story Bash
Banbury Museum OX16 2PQ
www.banburymuseum.org
10am A simply brilliant day celebrating
the wonderful stories of Banbury and
bringing the museum collections to life.
T: 01295 753 752
17 Nov
Christmas Light Festival
Ashmolean OX1 2PH
www.ashmolean.org
5pm Take part in festive family activities,
enjoy live music and indulge in warming
treats. T: 01865 278000
18 Nov
Science Saturdays
Museum of Natural History OX1 3PW
www.oum.ox.ac.uk
2pm Come and investigate real natural
history specimens with university
scientists. Suitable for families with
children ages 8+ years. T: 01865 282537
Nearly New Sale
Long Wittenham Pre School OX14 4QH
www.longwittenhampreschool.co.uk
10am Children’s clothing, toys, equipment
and refreshments. Entry £1.
18 – 19 Nov
One World Festival
Ashmolean OX1 2PH
www.ashmolean.org
11sm A big weekend exploring how light,
music and food connects communities and
faiths. T: 01865 278000
19 Nov
Matilda’s Magical Eyes
Roald Dahl Museum HP16 0AL
www.roalddahl.com
12pm, 1.30pm & 3pm Find out more
about Roald Dahl’s ideas for Matilda’s
eye power and what it could do, then
make magical glasses and colourful
kaleidoscopes to focus your eye power.
Cost £3 per person. Suitable for ages 4+.
Booking essential. T: 01494 892192
The Mona Lisa has
no eye brows.
14
Primary Times OCTOBER HALF TERM Issue | www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire

WHAT’S ON WHERE
25 Nov
Christmas Market
Thomley HP18 9JZ
www.thomley.org.uk
10am Open to all.
T: 01844 338380
Science Saturdays
Museum of Natural History
OX1 3PW
www.oum.ox.ac.uk
2pm Come and investigate
real natural history specimens with
university scientists. Suitable for families
with children ages 8+ years.
T: 01865 282537
Cracking Christmas
Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum OX20 1SN
www.sofo.org.uk
1pm Fun educational activities for children
aged 6-9 years. Cost £7 per child. Booking
essential. T: 01993 810204
25 Nov – 23 Dec
Find Santa’s Reindeer
Waterperry Gardens OX33 1LA
www.waterperrygardens.co.uk
10am Help Rudolph find his eight friends
lost all around the gardens and then collect
your Christmas prize. Cost £2 per child.
T: 01844 339254
25 – 26 Nov
Festive Family Trail
Upton House OX15 6HT
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
12pm Get in the festive spirit, follow the
Christmas trail and meet Father Christmas.
Cost £4 per child. T: 01295 670266
At least 12 rocks
from Mars have landed
on Earth.
2 Dec
Science Saturdays
Museum of Natural History
OX1 3PW
www.oum.ox.ac.uk
2pm Come and investigate
real natural history
specimens with
university scientists.
Suitable for families with
children ages 8+ years.
T: 01865 282537
Terrific Toys
Pitt Rivers Museum OX1 3PP
www.prm.ox.ac.uk
1pm See toys from around the world and
then make your own to take home.
T: 01865 282537
2 – 3 Dec
Festive Family Trail
Upton House OX15 6HT
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
12pm Get in the festive spirit, follow
the Christmas trail and meet Father
Christmas. Cost £4 per child.
T: 01295 670266
10 Dec
Santas on the Run
Helen & Douglas House OX4 1RW
www.helenanddouglas.org.uk
To Be Confirmed Ho ho ho! Join
2,500 Santa’s of all ages on this
great 3.5k Oxford fun run or walk
for a good claus, Helen & Douglas
House. Buggy friendly. Registration
required. T: 01865 799150
Signature Book Publishing
Firmly establishing itself as a leading producer of personalised
books, Signature book publishing believes that children are never
too young to love reading. Their main aim with the unique books they
create is to encourage children to have fun reading. Younger children
can sometimes find reading overwhelming, particularly when starting
school. Finding stories that kids will find engaging and fun is the key
to making sure they enjoy themselves. What better way is there to
encourage them than a book that is printed especially for them?
Each In The Book story, has your child’s name appearing in at
least one of three places; on the cover, hidden in illustrations, or
within the text. Reading personalised books with your child is a
great way to introduce the world of literature to them. Seeing their
name spelled out in icing on cakes, written in the stars, in trees
and on buses, as they read through the story gives young children
a sense of delightful mystery in a
world that belongs to them.
To find these fantastic reads visit
www.inthebook.com
www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire | OCTOBER HALF TERM Issue Primary Times 15

16
Primary Times OCTOBER HALF TERM Issue | www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire

www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire | OCTOBER HALF TERM Issue Primary Times 17

Summer Fields School
Summer Fields, a leading boys’
preparatory school for day pupils and
boarders, is opening a new Pre-Prep in
September 2018.
The new pre-prep (for boys aged 4 – 7)
will be housed in purpose-built, secure
premises on the schools stunning 70
acre grounds in Summertown, Oxford.
Outstanding facilities include science and
ICT centres, library, theatre and music
school, sports hall, swimming pools,
Astroturf, tennis courts and a nine-hole
golf course.
The existing prep school will also be
expanding, offering additional day places for
boys wishing to join the school in Year 4.
To find out more, please call the Registrar,
Mrs Christine Berry on 01865 459 204 or
email admissions@summerfields.com.
Focus on Schools
Radley
Radley offers an environment for boys
to grow in self-confidence, thrive
academically, and make the most of an
enormous range of opportunities The
door is open to any talented candidate,
regardless of their means or their
background, and we hope that we will have
many applicants who wish to join us in the
pursuit of excellence.
A Radley education is about independent
thought and learning with enthusiasm. It is
about cultural awareness and the benefits of
team sport. It is about academic ambition.
It is about learning to live with others; it
is about the core values that will underpin
success throughout a Radleian’s life: as
leaders, as citizens, as human beings.
Radley has places that can be funded up
to 100% of the fees. The entry process
begins early in Year 6 for 11+ candidates,
who we can fund through prep school for
two years, or there are scholarship places
available for Year 9 entry. If you have a
talented boy, who excels academically or
at music, sport, art or drama then please
either contact us: admissions@radley.
org.uk or 01235 543174 or complete the
enquiry form on our website. http://www.
radely.org.uk/Introduction-to-Funded-
Places-and-Scholarships
Oxford Education Centres: The key to your child’s success
Is your child …. Struggling in class? Not being stretched? Needing some consolidation in literacy
or numeracy?
Whatever the problem, help is at hand at Oxford Education Centre where our team of experts can
help to unlock your child’s potential, whatever their requirements.
Based in Cowley we are the only tuition centre in Oxford who offers children from 6-16 the
opportunity to be tutored by fully qualified teachers with each child having an individually tailored
programme. Classes are available from 4-7pm Monday-Thursday and Saturday 9.30am-12.30pm.
For further details please contact Alyson Smith on 01865 402950 or oxfordeducation@mail.com
www.oxfordeducationcentres.com
Happy puzzling at Cokethorpe
The Happy Puzzle Company returned to Cokethorpe Junior School for another fun packed
day of puzzles and challenges.
The children tackled an array of perplexing puzzles – from balancing pirate penguins
on shaky ships to constructing colourful 3D cubes. The children showed excellent
perseverance and attention to detail to solve puzzles that initially appeared to be
impossible but were finally solved.
Working in small groups the children had to solve problems against the clock. There was
a real sense of enjoyment and excitement as they devised different strategies and tried
them out with varying degrees of success. As the children cracked the puzzles they realised
that the most obvious approach to a problem is not always the most successful.
www.cokethorpe.org.uk
Having Fun
At Abingdon Prep, we run an extensive extracurricular
programme known as the ‘Other Half’.
There are external coaches who work alongside
the prep school staff to offer a huge variety of
activities. They take place every lunchtime and
after school. The boys love getting involved,
trying something new, learning different skills and
enjoying the challenge that this brings.
Of course, it’s not just our Other Half
programme that focuses on extra-curricular.
Drama, Art, Music, Swimming, DT, P.E. and
Games are all integral parts of the curriculum,
and it’s from participating in these subjects that
children gain so many of the life skills that we
aim to teach them. Success in school is not just
about what goes on in academic lessons and
judging pupils by their test scores. In all of these
activities, children gain in confidence, learn to be
resilient and to work with others, and we must
not forget the most important reason for doing
them – to have fun.
Craig Williams, Headmaster, Abingdon
Preparatory School
www.abingdon.org.uk/prep/
Cranford House
Here at Cranford House we believe that
it’s never too early to foster a fascination in
the world around us. With the teaching of
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering
and Mathematics), embedded throughout
our school curriculum, our boys and girls
are encouraged to explore, experiment and
discover, ensuring they are both learning and
having fun. To see our approach in action for
yourself, why not come along to our Junior
School Space Open Morning on Saturday 4
November? With masses of experiences and
activities for all Junior age children to have
a go at, it will be a morning that’s out of this
world! To book your place, head for
www.cranfordhouse.net/juniorspaceday
18
Primary Times OCTOBER HALF TERM Issue | www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire

www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire | OCTOBER HALF TERM Issue Primary Times 19

BOX OFFICE
BoxOffice
Your family theatre guide...
PANTO
guide
Cogges Manor Farm
OX28 3LA
www.cogges.org.uk
25 Nov
Jack and the Beanstalk
With a beanstalk that will grow right in front
of your eyes and an actual giant who makes
an appearance, this funny and exciting story
will amaze you and with lots of colourful
characters, songs and dances. T: 01993 772602
Cornerstone Arts Centre
OX11 7NE
www.cornerstone-arts.org
15 Oct
Peter and the Wolf
Join Peter on a hilarious adventure through the
fields and forest as he discovers new sounds
and noises. Featuring imaginative puppetry,
physical comedy and fun interactions.
T: 01235 515144
22 Oct
Musicians of Bremen
A stunning family tale that shows we can be
friends despite our differences.
T: 01235 515144
25 Oct
Michael Morpurgo’s King Arthur
A thrilling tale of magic, heroism, love and
betrayal adapted from the novel Arthur: High
King of Britain. T: 01235 515144
2 Nov
Imbalance
Combining exciting acrobatic skills and
athletic dance, this energetic, thoughtprovoking
performance explores our obsessive
dependence with technology.
T: 01235 515144
14 – 16 Nov
Didcot Girls School Dance Show
A showcase of dance from the talented
students at Didcot Girls School.
T: 01235 515144
19 Nov
The Buildy-Uppy Dance Show
Let your imagination run riot as hundreds of
cardboard boxes are stacked, squashed and
rebuilt. A participatory theatre experience for
children and adults.
T: 01235 515144
New Theatre Oxford
OX1 2AG
www.atgtickets.com
11 – 14 Oct
Awful Auntie
An amazing tale of frights, fights and
friendship, featuring a very large owl, a very
small ghost and a very awful Auntie!
T: 0844 871 3020
14 – 18 Nov
Mamma Mia!
Set on a Greek island paradise, a story of
love, friendship and identity is cleverly told
through the timeless songs of ABBA.
T: 0844 871 3020
North Wall Arts Centre
OX2 7JN
www.thenorthwall.com
21 Oct
Plain Bob
Watch Bob’s world come to life under an
umbrella and then step inside to lend him a
hand. By the end, you’ll all be singin’ in the
rain. T: 01865 319450
A Strange New Place
An imaginary voyage into space. A nonverbal,
physical show for the whole family
using puppetry and original music.
T: 01865 319450
Murder She Didn’t Write: The
Improvised Murder Mystery
Miss Crimson poisoned in the parlour? Mr
Gold exploded by cannon in Sainsburys?
You decide! But will you guess whodunnit?
Suitable for ages 7+ years.
T: 01865 319450
Pegasus Theatre OX4 1RE
www.pegasustheatre.org.uk
14 Oct
Funky Monkey and the Juicy
Fruits
A puppet play about some funky food, some
gunky food and a monkey dude! Funky
Monkey is the coolest guy in the jungle until
one day he loses his funk. T: 01865 812 150
21 Oct
Finding Beulah
Finding Beulah is a love story of two halves
literally, the male and the female, the past
and the future, the African experience and
the rest of the world. Suitable for ages 10+
years. T: 01865 812 150
The Beacon Wantage
OX12 9BX
www.beaconwantage.co.uk
29 Oct
The Hunting of the Snark
A riotous ragtag gang of bold adventurers
set off on a quest to catch the mythical
Snark.
18 Nov
Morgan & West: More Magic for
Kids
Time-travelling magicians Morgan & West
return to the stage with a marvellous magic
show full of crazy capers for the young, old,
and everyone in-between. T: 01235 763456
Morgan & West: Time Travelling
Magicians
A show brimming over with baffling magic,
unparalleled precognitive powers, and a totally
genuine ability to travel through time!
The Kenton Theatre RG9 2BP
www.kentontheatre.co.uk
13 Oct
Why The Whales Came
Children Gracie and Daniel have been forbidden
to go near the mysterious and seemingly
dangerous Birdman. But after being lost at sea
in the fog they begin to unravel the Birdman’s
secrets and learn why the whales came.
T: 01491 575698
20 – 25 Nov
A Christmas Carol
Classic, spooky, festive tale full of great
Christmas songs and dances and fun for all the
family. T: 01491 575698
The Mill Arts Centre
OX16 5QE
www.themillartscentre.co.uk
21 Oct
Sleeping Beauty
Following the traditional tale of Sleeping
Beauty, this ballet is sure to enchant audiences
of all ages. T: 01295 279002
26 Oct
Hansel & Gretel
The story of two children, a brother and a sister,
who support each other and survive foolish
parents, a dark wood, a gingerbread house and
a wicked witch. T: 01295 279002
18 Nov
Peter and the Wolf
Join Peter on a hilarious adventure through the
fields and forest as he discovers new sounds
and noises. Featuring imaginative puppetry,
physical comedy and fun interactions.
T: 01295 279002
The Theatre Chipping
Norton OX7 5NL
www.chippingnortontheatre.com
14 Oct
Lost and Found
Once there was a boy and one day he found a
penguin at his door. He did not know where it
had come from or to whom it belonged so the
boy decides to take the penguin home himself.
T: 01608 642350
14 Nov – 14 Jan
Sleeping Beauty
Heaps of jokes, oodles of fantastic original tunes
and a good dash of British History combine to
make this a Sleeping Beauty like no other.
T: 01608 642350
Burton Taylor Studio
OX1 2LW
www.oxfordplayhouse.com
9 Dec - 7 Jan 2018
A New Coat for Christmas
Various Times Snowflakes are falling and Anna
needs a coat to keep her warm and snug. But
times are hard, so Anna and Mummy set out to
make a new coat – with a little help from their
friends. T: 01865 305305
North Wall Arts Centre
OX2 7JN
www.thenorthwall.com
2 Dec – 6 Jan
A Christmas Carol
Various Times With misers, music, Marley’s
ghost and all sorts of Creation twists, this is a
show unlike any other. T: 01865 319450
Oxford Playhouse OX1 2LW
www.oxfordplayhouse.com
24 Nov – 7 Jan
Jack and the Beanstalk
Performances at 10am, 11am, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm
& 7pm Join Jack on the adventure of a lifetime
as he outwits the giant and is reunited with his
childhood sweetheart Jill...all with a little help
from his friends. T: 01865 305305
The Beacon Wantage
OX12 9BX
www.beaconwantage.co.uk
21 – 23 Dec
Dick Whittington
1pm & 4pm A traditional pantomime packed
with songs, slapstick, silliness, breath-taking
special effects, audience participation and
fairytale magic. T: 01235 763456
The Kenton Theatre RG9 2BP
www.kentontheatre.co.uk
15 – 28 Dec
Robin Hood
Various Times Watch as Robin fights to restore
justice for the people of Sherwood, win the
heart of the beautiful Maid Marion and rid the
land from the avaricious Sheriff of Nottingham
once and for all. T: 01491 575698
The Theatre Chipping
Norton OX7 5NL
www.chippingnortontheatre.com
14 Nov – 14 Jan 2018
Sleeping Beauty
Various Times Heaps of jokes, oodles of fantastic
original tunes and a good dash of British History
combine to make this a Sleeping Beauty like no
other. T: 01608 642350
20
Primary Times OCTOBER HALF TERM Issue | www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire

The North Wall’s
FAMILY ARTS TAKEOVER
Saturday 21 October from 10am
This October half term, The North Wall in Oxford will once more throw
open its doors and invite families to take over the whole building.
With behind-the-scenes theatre tours, very special shows and a huge
range of wondrous workshops, we guarantee there will be something
for everyone to enjoy.
All workshops are free with a Takeover Pass (£2 adults, £1 children).
Families can try their hand at stage combat, improvisation, shadow
puppetry, stage make-up and more!
Shows include Tessa Bide’s A Strange New Space at 2pm and
Noisy Oyster’s Plain Bob at 10.30am & 3.30pm, with tickets from
just £3.50.
Visit www.thenorthwall.com to download the full Takeover Timetable
Remember to tell clients
you saw it in
www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire | OCTOBER HALF TERM Issue Primary Times 21

competitions
win! To enter please go to...
www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire/competitions
or via Facebook at www.facebook.com/primarytimesoxfordshire
Closing dates may vary
Win a Family Ticket to see
Jack and the Beanstalk at the
Oxford Playhouse
On Saturday, 25th November at 7pm
FEE-FI-FO-FUM, I smell lots of panto fun!
Scale new heights with Jack and the Beanstalk, Oxford Playhouse’s
spectacular family pantomime for 2017.
After getting into humungous trouble with his mother for selling their
hapless cow for a handful of beans, Jack’s dreams come true when they start
to grow… and grow… and GROW.
Join him on the adventure of a lifetime as
he outwits the giant and is reunited with
his childhood sweetheart Jill...all with a
little help from his friends.
To enter just answer the following
question:
What does Jack sell for his
Magic Beans
a) A Tortoise b) A Cow c) A Puppy
Closing date: Friday, 10th November.
*Prize is for a family ticket for 2 adults and 2 children.
Plus one free programme and free ice-creams.
22
Primary Times OCTOBER HALF TERM Issue | www.primarytimes.net/oxfordshire
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