PTCardiff Winter 2017_Digital

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PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN
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WINTER 2017
27 NOV – 4 FEB 2017

The West End comes to Cowbridge
Vale Academy
of Performing Arts
Acting, Singing and Dance
classes for 5 to 12 year olds
Saturday Mornings
at Cowbridge Comprehensive School
Book your FREE trial today!
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Dear Reader
Welcome to the Christmas Issue of Primary Times.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! There’s lots to celebrate and
plenty to do to keep you entertained throughout the Winter. You’ll find
lots of fantastic events and activities in our What’s On Guide, many of
them are free, so pop along and join in the fun.
Santa is making many appearances around the region before taking to
his sleigh for the big day. On page 4 there is a list of all the places you
can see Santa before Christmas Day - finding him couldn’t be easier!
Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a Panto or a show and you’ll
find something to entertain the whole family in our Box Office pages.
Don’t forget to enter our fantastic competitions. There are almost too
many to mention this month, but you could win tickets to see Cinderella,
Aladdin, Snow White, The Bear or The Magic Porridge Pot AND a chance
to win a family ticket to The Royal Mint Experience!
Finally, everyone at Primary Times wishes you all a joyous festive time,
and a wonderful 2018. We’ll see you next year for more fun ideas, events
and competitions!
Don’t forget, to let us know if there’s something exciting happening at
your school, you can email us at sam@schoolspublishing.co.uk
Best wishes,
Marion, Sam S, Sam, Carol & Amie
4 Where's Santa?
8 WOW
16 Oh Christmas Tree
20 Top Tips
26 Pinboard
28 Box Office
32 Competitions
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
/cardiff
Primary Times
Club-Cardiff
...the UK’s biggest, free ‘what’s on’ magazine for parents!
Primary Times Cardiff & The Vale, Schools Publishing Limited, Unit 1A,
Thamesview Industrial Estate, Newtown Road, Henley on Thames, Oxon,
RG9 1HG. Tel: 01491 411848 Fax: 01491 411416 www.primarytimes.net/cardiff
Publisher: Marion McAdam marion@schoolspublishing.co.uk
Assistant Editor: Sam Shepherd sam@schoolspublishing.co.uk
Sales: Sam Jackson ptcardiff@schoolspublishing.co.uk Tel: 01275 331382
Production: Carol George production@schoolspublishing.co.uk
Design: Amie Joachim
Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through national primary schools in Cardiff and The Vale.
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 Cardiff and The Vale 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.
CONTENTS
Search
The Red Dragon Centre
Follow
@reddragoncentre
The Red Dragon Centre
Atlantic Wharf, Cardiff, CF10 4JY
Open Every Day
Except Christmas Day
COME IN
AND PLAY
This Christmas
Enjoy a sleigh full of fun at The Red Dragon
Centre in Cardiff Bay this Christmas.
Your winter retreat for Christmas parties,
delicious food and drink, blockbuster
films, bowling, and festive family events.
FREE CUSTOMER
PARKING
T&Cs and minimum
spend applies
More at
www.thereddragoncentre.co.uk
Cinema | Dining | Bars | Bowling | Casino
www.primarytimes.net/cardiff | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 3

WHERE'S SANTA?
where's
santa?
ONGOING EVENTS
2nd - 22nd December
VISIT SANTA AT IKEA
AND HELP CHARITY
Ikea Ferry Rd, Cardiff CF11 0JR
Visit Santa Claus’ North Pole. All proceeds go
to Noah’s Ark Charity Tiny Lives Appeal (Reg
charity number 1069485). Visit and gift £8;
Visit, gift and photograph £10.
www.noahsarkcharity.org
7th - 24th December
SANTA’S GROTTO
Principality Stadium
Westgate Street, Cardiff CF10 1NS
A Christmas experience with a difference.
Find the pieces of Santa’s puzzle as you are
guided round corridors and dressing rooms
steeped in world sporting and musical
history. Tread in the footsteps of your heroes
before visiting Santa and picking up a gift,
set to put a smile on the face of every young
fan and budding player in Wales. Children
(U16) £12; adults £6.50. Booking essential.
Tel: 029 2082 2432
www.principalitystadium.wales/tours
Until 23rd December
CHRISTMAS FUN
Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm
Clevedon Road, Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1PG
Follow the illuminated trail and journey
through Elephant Christmas Tree Forest to
see Santa. See online for details.
Tel: 01275 852606
www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk
Until 24th December
SANTA’S TOY MINE
Rhondda Heritage Park,
Lewis Merthyr Colliery
Coed Cae Road, Trehafod, CF37 2NP
Join the toy miners on this underground
adventure hunting for Santa’s hidden
cottage? Follow the clues and find your
way through Santa’s toy mine. Plus new for
2017 - *Giant Snow Globe, *Make-Your-Own
Teddy Bear Workshop, *photos with Santa,
evening tours. *Please note additional
cost applies to these events. Each child will
receive a gift from Santa. Adults will have a
mince pie and hot drink (Tea or Coffee) on
arrival. Tel: 01443 682036
www.rhonddaheritagepark.com
SANTA’S GROTTO
Pugh’s Garden Village, Port Road,
Wenvoe, Cardiff, CF5 6AD
Visit Santa’s grotto- approximately a 30
minute journey through 4 different rooms.
Children £10 Adults £3 Price includes – toy
and magic reindeer food
to take home. Book online at www.
pughsgardencentre.co.uk
DECEMBER
Friday 1st December
PORTH CHRISTMAS EVENT
Porth Town Centre
3pm - 7.30pm. Attractions include Santa and
his Reindeers; Snow Globe; Farm Animals;
Festive Funfair; Face Painting; Balloon
Modelling and much more. Free event.
£2 to enter Santa’s Grotto. Funfair Rides
individually priced. Tel: 01443 424123.
www.rctcbc.gov.uk/whatson
TODDLER DAY: SNOWFLAKES
& SPARKLES
Techniquest, Cardiff Bay, CF10 5BW
9:30am – 4:30pm. Once a month during
term-time, pre-school children have their
run of the exhibits with activities on a
special theme. There’ll be storytime and
singalong, a mini-disco and something to
make to take home. Techniquest is buggyfriendly,
with nappy-changing facilities and
lockers. Under-4s free, accompanying adults
£5.50. Tel: 029 2047 5475.
www.techniquest.org
Friday 1st - Sunday 3rd December
VISIT SANTA
Tredegar House, Pencarn Way,
Newport, NP10 8YW
10.45am - 4pm. Head to the stables where
Father Christmas is double-checking his
naughty and nice list and meeting children
before he heads off around the world
on Christmas Eve to deliver his giant
sack of presents. Tel: 01633 811650.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/tredegarhouse
WINTER FAIR
Aberglasney Gardens Llangathen,
Carmarthenshire SA32 8QH
Friday 11am - 4.30pm, Saturday & Sunday
10am - 4.30pm. A Christmas shopper’s
paradise with over 100 handpicked
exhibitors from artists, makers, crafters
and designers. There will also be a separate
fine food marquee where you can stock up
on festive treats from food artisans and
farmers. Plus Santa will be there in his
grotto on Saturday & Sunday but you will
need to wander through our sub-tropical
indoor Garden to find him! Adults £8.50;
children up to 16 years old free. All visitors
can enjoy a complimentary glass of mulled
wine or spiced apple juice and a mince pie.
Proceeds raised will help with the continued
restoration of the Mansion House and
Gardens. Tel: 01558 668998.
www.aberglasney.org
Saturday 2nd December
CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL
Memo Arts Centre, Gladstone Road,
Barry, CF62 8NA. 10am - 4pm. Visit Santa
in his grotto and enjoy a Christmas market
with over 30 festive gift and craft stalls. Tel:
01446 738622. www.memoartscentre.co.uk
MOUNTAIN ASH CHRISTMAS EVENT
Mountain Ash Town Centre
11am - 6pm. Santa’s Grotto - 11am - 3.30pm.
Snowboard Simulator. Christmas film
4.30pm and 5.30pm, plus farm and funfair.
Free event. £2 to enter Santa’s Grotto.
Funfair rides individually priced. Tel: 01443
424123. www.rctcbc.gov.uk/whatson
FESTIVE FUN DAY
National Waterfront Museum,
Swansea, SA1 3RD. 12pm - 4pm. Free. An
afternoon full of festive cheer. Letterpress
print a letter to Santa, decorate the wishing
tree, sing carols around the tree, plus a
special visit from Santa and real reindeers.
Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd December
SANTA’S GROTTO
The Royal Mint Experience Llantrisant CF72 8YT
10am - 5pm. £12.50 per child, £2 per adult.
Advanced booking essential. Santa’s really
busy at this time of year but he has set aside
time to visit good boys and girls in his grotto.
To book tickets tel: 0333 241 2223.
www.royalmint.com/experience
Sunday 3rd December
CRAFTS FOR CHRISTMAS
St Donat’s Castle UWC Atlantic College,
Llantwit Major CF61 1WF. 10.30am –
4.30pm. £6 per car or £2 per person on foot.
Over 50 stalls including jewellery, wood, glass,
ceramics, textiles, craft and so more. Enjoy
festive entertainment and an outdoor birds of
prey display in the beautiful castle gardens.
Plus face painting by Fabulous Faces. Enjoy a
coffee whilst taking in the stunning sea views
from the café. Plus food hall in the medieval
Tythe Barn. And you might even meet Santa
too! Tel: 01446 799 100. www.stdonats.com
Continued on page 6
4
Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/cardiff

Experience
2/3, 9/10, 16/17,
22/23 December
10am to 5pm
PRIOR BOOKING
ESSENTIAL
Santa’s Grotto
at The Royal Mint Experience
Santa’s really busy at this time of year but he has set aside time to come and
meet good boys and girls in his grotto at The Royal Mint Experience, Llantrisant.
Meet Santa in his grotto and receive a Christmas present.
Each day there will be crafts available too.
Children must be accompanied by an adult. (Maximum of 2 adults per visit).
ADVANCED BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Tickets £12.50 per child, £2.00 per adult
Tickets on sale now.
Book early to avoid disappointment.
To book tickets phone 0333 241 2223
Visit Santa at IKEA Cardiff
2nd–22nd December 2017
£8.00 (Visit and gift) £10.00 (Visit, gift and photo)
TINY LIVES APPEAL
Sponsored by
Opening hours:
2nd – 17th December
Mon–Wed: 1pm–5pm
Thu–Sat: 11am–5pm
Sun:
11am–3pm
18th – 22nd December
Mon–Fri: 11am–5pm
All proceeds go to the Noah’s Ark Charity Tiny Lives Appeal –
supporting the life-saving care of premature and critically ill babies.
Elusen Arch Noa
APEL BYWYDAU BYCHAIN
www.noahsarkcharity.org
Registered charity number: 1069485
www.primarytimes.net/cardiff | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 5

WHERE'S SANTA?
Wednesday 6th December
LLANTRISANT CHRISTMAS EVENT
Llantrisant Town Centre.
3pm - 9pm. Attractions include Santa,
Festive Craft Stalls, Carols and much more,
including the lighting of the Christmas Tree
at the Bull Ring at 7pm. Tel: 01443 424123.
www.rctcbc.gov.uk/whatson
Wednesday 6th - Saturday 9th December
CHRISTMAS NIGHTS
National Museum of History St Fagans, CF5 6XB
6 - 9pm. Traditional Welsh Christmas activities.
Wrap up warm and take a torch. Celebrate with
carols in the chapel, traditional Welsh Plygain
singing in the church and a Brass Band on
Gwalia Green. Make a start on your Christmas
shopping at the Makers’ Market, meet Santa
and enjoy a tale or two from Mother Christmas
to keep you entertained while you wait your
turn. You can write your Christmas list at the
Victorian Schoolhouse and post it at Wales’
smallest post office. Then make something
special at the family friendly craft workshops.
All tickets for this event must be purchased in
advance via www ticketlineuk.com or (029)
2023 0130. Adults £15; children (under 16) £8;
under 2s free. Tel 029 2057 3500.
www.museum.wales/stfagans
Friday 8th - Sunday 10th December
VISIT SANTA
Tredegar House Pencarn Way, Newport,
NP10 8YW. 10.45am - 4pm. Head to the
stables where Father Christmas is doublechecking
his naughty and nice list and
meeting children before he heads off around
the world on Christmas Eve to deliver his
giant sack of presents. Tel: 01633 811650.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/tredegarhouse.
Saturday 9th December
TREORCHY CHRISTMAS EVENT
Treorchy Town Centre. 11am - 5pm.
Attractions include Santa’s Grotto; Festive
Craft Market; Reindeer, Festive Funfair; Face
Painting and much more. The Childrens’
Lantern and Reindeer Parade takes place at
4:30pm. Free Event. £2 to enter Santa’s Grotto.
Funfair rides individually priced. Tel: 01443
424123. www.rctcbc.gov.uk/whatson
ABERDARE CHRISTMAS EVENT
Aberdare Town Centre. 10.30am - 4.30pm.
Attractions include Santa; Christmas Market;
Reindeer; Snowboard Simulator; Farm
Animals; Festive Funfair; Face Painting and
much more. Free Event. £2 to enter Santa’s
Grotto. Funfair rides individually priced. Tel:
01443 424123. www.rctcbc.gov.uk/whatson
Saturday 9th - Sunday 10th December
SANTA’S GROTTO
The Royal Mint Experience, Llantrisant,
CF72 8YT. 10am - 5pm. £12.50 per child,
£2 per adult. Advanced booking essential.
Santa’s really busy at this time of year but he
has set aside time to visit good boys and girls
in his grotto. To book tickets tel: 0333 241
2223. www.royalmint.com/experience
SANTA’S WINTERY WONDERLAND
Cwmcarn Forest Visitor Centre Cwmcarn,
NP11 7FA. From 10am. Meet Santa in his
winter wonderland. Marvel at his snowy
garden and mountains and journey through
the elves workshop, before meeting Santa!
Don’t forget to take your camera and also
to post your letter in the North Pole post
box. £6 per child (includes gifts). Tel: 01495
272001. www.cwmcarnforest.co.uk
Sunday 10th December
BIG PIT BABIES CHRISTMAS EVENT
WITH MOTHER CHRISTMAS
Big Pit National Coal Museum NP4 9XP
A chance for younger visitors to meet
Mother Christmas and find out what’s been
happening in the Christmas household.
Sessions are at 11.30am - 12.30pm and
1.30pm -2. 30pm and MUST be booked in
advanced. Suitable for 0 - 5 years. £5 per
child (includes a gift). Limited spaces, so prebooking
essential on: 029 2057 3650.
www.museumwales.ac.uk/bigpit
CARDIFF BY CANDLELIGHT
City Hospice Grounds of Whitchurch
Hospital, CF14 7BF. 4pm - 8pm. Take the
family along for a festive candlelit walk
around Whitchurch. Browse the craft stalls,
sing carols and meet Santa. Mulled wine and
mince pies/refreshments available.
Free entry. Donations welcome.
www.cityhospice.org.uk
Tuesday 12th December
VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS
Aberdulais, National Trust, SA10 8EU
5.30pm - 8pm. Adults £7.50; children £3.75;
Family £18.75. Mrs Clause has made a stop at
Aberdulais this Christmas, bringing the North
Pole to the Valley. Spend an evening cosying
up and listening to her stories. The staff at
Aberdulais are decorating and trimming the
tree and preparing for special visit from the
man himself. Christmas spirit has covered the
tinworks, festive activities and traditional
Christmas treats will start you off on your
Christmas traditions. Enjoy strolls and stay
warm in your winter woollies, and gear up for
an outdoors adventure. Tel: 01639 636674.
www.nationatrust.org.uk
Friday 15th - Sunday 17th December
VISIT SANTA
Tredegar House Pencarn Way, Newport,
NP10 8YW. 10.45am - 4pm. £3 per child.
Head to the stables where Father Christmas
is double-checking his naughty and nice list
and meeting children before he heads off
around the world on Christmas Eve to deliver
his giant sack of presents. Tel: 01633 811650.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/tredegarhouse.
Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th December
SANTA’S WINTERY WONDERLAND
Cwmcarn Forest Visitor Centre, Cwmcarn,
NP11 7FA. From 10am. Meet Santa in his
winter wonderland. Marvel at his snowy
garden and mountains and journey through
the elves workshop, before meeting Santa!
Don’t forget to take your camera and also
to post your letter in the North Pole post
box. £6 per child (includes gifts). Tel: 01495
272001. www.cwmcarnforest.co.uk
SANTA FEEDS THE DEER
Margam Country Park Margam, Neath Port
Talbot, SA13 2TJ. Watch Santa as he feeds
his deer and then enjoy activities in the Castle
and enjoy the Children’s Village. Deer feed is
ticketed only event - £15 per car. Tickets available
online or at the Park entrance cabin. Tel: 01639
881635. www.margamcountrypark.co.uk
SANTA’S GROTTO
The Royal Mint Experience Llantrisant
CF72 8YT. 10am - 5pm. £12.50 per child,
£2 per adult. Advanced booking essential.
Santa’s really busy at this time of year but he
has set aside time to visit good boys and girls
in his grotto. To book tel: 0333 241 2223.
www.royalmint.com/experience
Sunday 17th December
IT’S CHRISTMAS
Big Pit National Coal Museum NP4 9XP
10.30am - 4pm. Be amazed as Father
Christmas arrives at Pit Top at 10.30am,
travelling 300ft UP from underground on his
way to Lapland. Once he’s arrived (and found
his elves!) there’ll be an opportunity to visit
him in his cottage, from 11am - 1pm and
1.30pm - 4pm, and tell him what’s on your
Christmas list. Plus music from Blaenavon
Town Band. £5 - includes a gift. No booking
necessary. Tel: 029 2057 3650.
www.museumwales.ac.uk/bigpit
Tuesday 19th December
VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS
Aberdulais, National Trust, SA10 8EU
5.30pm - 8pm. Adults £7.50; children £3.75;
Family £18.75. Mrs Clause has made a stop at
Aberdulais this Christmas, bringing the North
Pole to the Valley. Spend an evening cosying
up and listening to her stories. The staff at
Aberdulais are decorating and trimming the
tree and preparing for special visit from the
man himself. Christmas spirit has covered the
tinworks, festive activities and traditional
Christmas treats will start you off on your
Christmas traditions. Enjoy strolls and stay
warm in your winter woollies, and gear up for
an outdoors adventure. Tel: 01639 636674.
www.nationatrust.org.uk
Wednesday 20th - Friday 22nd December
SANTA FEEDS THE DEER
Margam Country Park Margam, Neath Port
Talbot, SA13 2TJ. Watch Santa as he feeds his
deer and then enjoy activities in the Castle
and enjoy the Children’s Village. Deer feed
is ticketed only event - £15 per car. Tickets
available online or at the Park entrance
cabin. Tel: 01639 881635.
www.margamcountrypark.co.uk
Friday 22nd - Saturday 23rd December
SANTA’S GROTTO
The Royal Mint Experience, Llantrisant, CF72
8YT. 10am - 5pm. £12.50 per child, £2 per
adult. Advanced booking essential. Santa’s
really busy at this time of year but he has set
aside time to visit good boys and girls in his
grotto. To book tel: 0333 241 2223.
www.royalmint.com/experience
6
Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/cardiff

20 Nov-23 Dec
www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk
Elephant Christmas tree forest
Details & Discounts Online
Nadolig Cymreig
traddodiadol i’w gofio.
A traditional Welsh
Christmas to remember.
£15 oedolion | adult
£8 plant | child
Tocynnau ymlaen llaw yn unig
Advance tickets only
amgueddfa.cymru/sain agan
museum.wales/stfagans
Sain Ffagan Amgueddfa Werin Cymru
St Fagans National Museum of History
www.primarytimes.net/cardiff | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 7

WHAT’S ON WHERE
If you are looking for more inspiration, there
are many more events on our website
www.primarytimes.net/cardiff
ONGOING EVENTS
7th - 23rd December
Santa’s Post Office
Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay CF10 5BZ
Open every day 12noon - 5pm. Free.
The magical Post Office returns
to Mermaid Quay - this year in an
new location right in the middle
of the centre. Visit the elves,
write your letter to Santa & see
it fly to Lapland on the magical
map - you’ll even get a reply
from the big man himself.
www.mermaidquay.co.uk
1 December - 14 January
Christmas
Wales Millennium Centre
Bute Place, Cardiff Bay, CF10 5AL
Free. Visit the magical Arctic wonderland
for a twinkly and heart-warming Christmas
experience for all the family. There are heaps
of free festive sights across The Centre with
activities including Christmas crafting,
storytelling and music. Take in a light
installation inspired by the Northern Lights,
upcycled sculptures and Christmas trees, and
even an immersive VR experience taking you
on a walk across a glacier. Plus delicious
festive food and drink there’s plenty
to keep everyone entertained;
a perfect escape from the
Christmas-craziness to inspire
all ages. See website for a full
listing. Tel: 029 2063 6464
www.wmc.org.uk
Every Saturday
Family Saturday
11am - 4pm. Suitable for all ages. Free. Let
your imagination run wild every Saturday.
Enjoy craft workshops- explore your creative
flair! From cress planting and woolly octopuses
to envelope cities, Saturdays at the Centre are
perfect for keeping little hands busy.
Ongoing
Tiger Bay Tales
All day. Not ticketed and suitable for all
ages. Bringing to life the true spirit of this
fascinating corner of Cardiff, Tiger Bay Tales is
a story gathering project that aims to capture
and preserve the legends of Butetown and
Tiger Bay with a new interactive trail. Follow
the digital map into the heart of Tiger Bay
where you can listen to interviews from
community members and see historical
images and videos of the area. Learn about
how Tiger Bay residents lived and spent their
time, and find out more about what makes it
such an interesting and exciting place.
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.
Early 2018
Google Expeditions: Tiger Bay
Take the experience back into the classroom,
the Centre is working with Orange Bus
to create virtual reality learning journeys
for schools to delve into the backstage
world of Tiger Bay The Musical.
Expeditions brings virtual reality
into the classroom through
the downloadable app. Each
expedition comprises of multiple
360° photos with descriptions
and points of interest for the
teacher, easily incorporated into
the curriculum. Using a tablet, teachers
can guide their students using virtual reality
viewers. Aimed at key stage 3, secondary
schools across Wales to enjoy this immersive
learning and make use of the bilingual and
free resources that will be hosted by Google
Expeditions. Email education@wmc.org.uk to
register your interest.
Until June
Exhibition: Wriggle! The wonderful
world of worms
National Museum Cardiff
Cathays Park, Cardiff, CF10 3NP
10am - 4.45pm (last entry 4pm). Explore
the wonderful world of worms –
from fossils to fantasy, from food
to spectacular beauty and the
scary ones too! See life from
a worm’s point of view or find
out what museum scientists
do to extend our knowledge
of these fascinating animals.
Free. Tel: 0300 111 2 333
www.museumwales.ac.uk
Fridays during term time:
Toddler Time
1.30am - 4pm. Special boxes of toys, games
and books in different galleries to help
parents with children explore the Museum
through play. Free. Suitable for 1 - 4 yrs.
Weekends during term time
Clore Explorers
2pm. Learn about some of the Museum’s
collection and get hands-on in a
craft activity. Free.
Throughout December
Exhibition: Generation Games
National Waterfront Museum
Swansea SA1 3RD
10am - 5pm. Free. Play your way through the
history of home computer games consoles.
Tel: 029 2057 3600
www.museum.wales/swansea
2nd December - 25th February
City Showcase
Cardiff Story Museum
The Old Library, The Hayes, Cardiff CF10 1BH
Explore the history of Bute Park and find
out stories of the past in this fascinating
exhibition about the green heart of the city.
Free entry. Tel: 029 2034 6214
www.cardiffstory.com
Until 17th December
Ice Central
Central Park Barry, CF63 4RW
The undercover real ice rink will be
open every day with late nights from
Thursday Sunday. Price per 40 minutes skate
- 15 years and under £5; 16+ £7.50. Family
ticket (2+2) £15. Advance tickets available
online. www.visitthevale.com
Until 7th January
12 Days of Christmas Trail
Dyffryn Gardens
Nr St Nicholas, CF5 6SU
10am - 4pm. Normal admission prices
apply. The popular festive trail is back, but
with a difference. A new magical display will
be placed around the gardens bringing the
much loved Christmas carol to life.
Tel: 029 2059 0813
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Until 22nd December
St David’s Toy Appeal
St David’s Shopping Centre Cardiff,
CF10 2EN
St David’s Cardiff is calling upon its
shoppers to ensure that every child in South
Wales receives a Christmas gift, by launching
its annual Toy Appeal campaign. St David’s
is asking its customers to buy an extra gift
for a child in need and drop it off at the
in-centre Donation Stations. From there, a
team of festive helpers will be making sure
that gifts are delivered safely in time to start
the Christmas celebrations. This year the
Toy Appeal will benefit charities including
Barnado’s, Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital
Charity, Ty Hafan, Dreams and Wishes, and
Latch. There are two Donation Stations, the
first located near the Clogau store on
the lower level and the second near
Watches of Switzerland.
www.stdavidscardiff.com/ToyAppeal
Ongoing
St Fagans Explorer Packs
St Fagans National Museum of History
St Fagans, CF5 6XB
Everyday you can explore the Museum with
the new activity trail packs? They’re a fun
way for families to get the most out of a
©Forestry Commission, Crown Copyright
visit to the Museum. Follow the map around
the Museum to find some special hands on
activities. Pick up an Explorer Pack from the
gift shop for £3.50. Tel 029 2057 3500
www.museum.wales/stfagans
Until 7th January
Admiral Ice Rink
City Hall Lawn
Cardiff CF10 3ND
Enjoy the undercover Admiral ice rink,
authentic bierkeller, alpine village and funfair.
This year, there are relaxed accessibility
sessions, at which music will be played at low
level, lighting will be static, and the capacity
of the rink will be reduced to allow those
who may need additional support to enjoy
the facility. There is also a disabled viewing
platform. Prices may vary from day to day
due to peak and off peak times.
Tel: 0333 666 3366
www.cardiffswinterwonderland.com
29th Nov - 3rd Dec | 6th - 10th Dec |
13th - 17th Dec:
Christmas Traditions
Tredegar House
Pencarn Way, Newport, NP10 8YW
10.30am - 4pm. Adults £9.20; childfren
£4.60. (National Trust members go free).
Travel through time exploring traditions past
and present. Enjoy traditional Christmas
activities, soak of the festive atmosphere and
treat yourself to a glass of mulled wine and a
mince pie. Tel: 01633 811650
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/tredegarhouse
Mondays during term time.
Sherman Story Time
Sherman Theatre
Cardiff, CF24 4YE
10.30am - 12pm. £3.50 per child (includes
healthy snack and drink). Visit the Sherman
Theatre foyer for a new weekly activity
for Under 5s. Alongside listening to a
rousing story you will also be led in a range
of engaging games and activities. All
accompanying adults are encouraged to
actively participate as well. The sessions will
run on term time Monday mornings (There
are some exceptions – please check website).
Spaces are limited so book to secure your
space. Tel: 029 2064 6900
www.shermantheatre.co.uk
8th - 17th December
Winter Wonderland
National Botanic Garden of Wales
Middleton Hall, Llanarthne, SA32 8HN
The Garden is open from 10am until 4:30pm,
with last admission at 3:30pm. The Winter
Continued on page 10
8
Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/cardiff
CANNOCK CHASE FOREST

How Welsh shoppers can
make a child’s christmas
St David’s Toy Appeal to bring Christmas cheer to
children across South Wales
This festive season, St David’s Cardiff
is calling upon its shoppers to ensure
that every child in South Wales
receives a Christmas gift, by launching
its annual Toy Appeal campaign.
From November 9th until 22nd
December, St David’s is asking its
customers to buy an extra gift for a child
in need and drop it off at the in-centre
Donation Stations. From there, a team of
festive helpers will be making sure that
gifts are delivered safely in time to start
the Christmas celebrations.
The appeal, launched in 2015, has seen
the generosity of shoppers donate over
12,500 gifts so far. This year the Toy
Appeal will benefit from the campaign
up to 20 charities, making it the biggest
year yet. Charities taking park include
Barnado’s, Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital
Charity, Ty Hafan, Dreams and Wishes,
and Latch.
Steven Madeley, General Manager for
St David’s, commented: “Each of these
amazing charities provide vital work in
their communities so we’re thrilled to
be supporting even more charities with
the Toy Appeal this year. “The festive
season is always such an exciting time
for us all as we give and receive gifts
with family and loved ones, but for
many children across South Wales this is
something that they aren’t able to enjoy.
We’re asking our shoppers to pick up
something extra this year and buy gifts
or stocking fillers that will make a big
difference to a child in need.” Shoppers
who want to take part can head to one
of two Donation Stations at St David’s,
the first located near the Clogau store
on the lower level and the second near
Watches of Switzerland. There they will
be able to collect a Christmas treat and
an exclusive 10 per cent off voucher for
purchases at Hamleys.
For more information on the Toy
Appeal, visit stdavidscardiff.com/
ToyAppeal or join in the conversation
on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
using #SDToyAppeal
BY ST DAVID’S
DONATE A GIFT AND MAKE A CHILD’S CHRISTMAS
SDTA17_AD landscape_FINAL.indd 1 10/11/2017 11:11
www.primarytimes.net/cardiff | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 9

WHAT’S ON WHERE
Wonderland event is held after closing from
4 - 7pm. Adults £6; children £3. Enjoy an
amazing lights show, owl display, free mulled
wine and mince pie, bar, barbecue, turkey
rolls, candy floss and other yuletide treats,
Fun, games and music. Tel: 01558 667149
www.botanicgarden.wales
Tuesdays during term time
Beach Cadets
Ogmore-by-Sea Beach, CF32 0PB
5:30pm – 6:30pm. £4.50 per person. For
ages 11 - 15. Weekly Marine Biology and
Conservation club for young people. Meet at
the Pen-y-Bont SLSC building, Rivermouth car
park. Tel: 07966 572273
www.beachacademywales.com
Wednesdays during term time
Seaside Rangers
5:30 to 6:30pm. Weekly Marine wildlife and
nature club for children age 7-11. Meet at
the Pen-y-Bont SLSC building, Rivermouth
car park.
N0VEMBER
Tuesday 28th November
Night at the Tinworks
Aberdulais, National Trust SA10 8EU
5.30pm - 8pm. Adults £7.50; children £3.75;
family £18.75. Stories told by lanterns as you
are taken back to the days of the tinworks.
Learn first-hand how Tin crafted a world-wide
industry and learn about the family ways
of the Tinworks. Wear weather appropriate
clothing and take a torch. Tel: 01639 636674.
www.nationatrust.org.uk
Thursday 30th November
Taith Iaith
National Museum Cardiff, Cathays Park,
Cardiff, CF10 3NP
1.05pm. Practice your Welsh in the “Wriggle”
exhibition. If you’ve ever wondered what the
Welsh for worm is, then visit the ‘Wriggle’
exhibition to practice your Welsh as well as
find out more about our wormy, squirmy
friends! Free. Book on arrival. Tel: 0300 111 2
333. www.museumwales.ac.uk
DECEMBER
Friday 1st December
Carry on Screaming Screening: Battle
of the Sexes
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
Every Friday at 11am, Carry on Screaming
allows parents or carers to see a film at
Chapter without having to worry about their
CARDIFF WINTER WOMDERLAND
baby causing a disturbance. Tickets: £2.50 -
£4.50. Free entry for babies. Book online or on
029 2030 4400. www.chapter.org
Little Mice Club – Festive Special
National Waterfront Museum,
Swansea, SA1 3RD
10.30am – 12pm. Free. Drop in with
your little ones to make, play and sing on the
theme of the festive season and meet Morys
the Museum Mouse. Tel: 029 2057 3600.
www.museum.wales/swansea
Saturday 2nd December
Family Film
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
11am. My Little Pony. 3pm Son of Bigfoot.
Children under 12-years-old must be
accompanied by an adult. Tickets: £2.50 -
£4.50. Book online or on 029 2030 4400.
www.chapter.org
Oh So Crafty Workshops: Animated
Christmas Cards
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
1pm - 3pm. Join Chapter’s Education
Manager and learn how to use an animation
app to create your own unique animated
Christmas Card, which you can email to
your friends and family. Cost £2. Drop in
activity (approx. 30mins per animation)
Recommended Age 7+.
Plus:
Oh So Crafty Workshops: Reindeer
Treat Bags
Join Susannah from Chapter’s Sewcials
and create little reindeer bags that
you can use on Christmas Eve to keep
your reindeer treats in. Cost £2. Drop in
activity (approx. 30mins per treat bag).
Recommended Age 8+. Tel: 029 2030 4400.
www.chapter.org
Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd December
A Magical Christmas
Leeks Store, Cowbridge Road,
Llantrisant CF72 8XU
Visit Santa in his grotto and meet live
Reindeer. Tel:0333 222 4120.
www.leekes.co.uk
Winter Workshop
Parc Play Unit 5, Curran Embankment,
Grangetown, Cardiff, CF10 5DX
11am & 2.30pm. Complete the winter
trail before enjoying Christmas crafts in the
cosy cabin. Tel: 029 2034 5696.
www.parcplay.com
Colourful Chemistry
Techniquest, Cardiff Bay, CF10 5BW
Throughout the day. How do colour changes
occur in chemical reactions? What are the
uses of these colour changes? How can
chemistry provide us with colour, energy and
light? Take part in some colourful chemical
reactions on stage to find out.
Plus:
Lights in the Sky
Throughout the day. Look up into the night
sky to explore the many lights that have
fascinated humans for centuries. Discover
their origins, from nearby satellites to distant
stars, and find out which lights in the sky you
can see from your own back garden. If you’re
lucky you may even catch a glimpse of the
Northern Lights! Suitable for age 7+. £1.50
addition to admission price.
Plus:
Pawprints in the Winter Sky
Throughout the day. Help Izzy take a tour
of the night sky as she learns about the
animals that you can find amongst the stars.
Depending on the season, see what animals
you can find. It might be a bull, a lion, a
dragon or a winged horse! Suitable for under-
7s. £1.50 addition to admission price. Tel: 029
2047 5475. www.techniquest.org
Christmas Craft Market
Tredegar House, Pencarn Way,
Newport, NP10 8YW
11am - 4pm. Free entry. Mooch around
the Christmas markets offering a range
of foods and gifts from local traders. Tel:
01633 811650. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/
tredegarhouse
Sunday 3rd December
Christmas Wreath-Making
Cardiff Castle, Cardiff, CF10 3RB
12.30pm. Visit the festive 15th century
Undercroft for a lesson in Christmas
Wreath-making. Expert guidance is on hand
and all materials are provided. Prices from
£8.50. Tel: 029 2087 8100.
www.cardiffcastle.com
Family Film
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
11am. My Little Pony. Children under
12-years-old must be accompanied by an
adult. Tickets: £2.50 - £4.50. Book online or
on 029 2030 4400. www.chapter.org
Cinema: The Son of Bigfoot (PG)
Memo Arts Centre Gladstone Road,
Barry, CF62 8NA
3pm. Advance tickets £3; on the door £3.50.
Tel: 01446 738622. www.memoartscentre.
co.uk
Festive Film: The Polar Express 3D
(U: 2004)
National Waterfront Museum,
Swansea, SA1 3RD
2.30pm. Enjoy a festive film, free. Tel:
029 2057 3600.
www.museum.wales/swansea
Cardiff Santa & Elf Dash
Roald Dahl Plass Cardiff Bay, CF10 5AN
11.30am. Join thousands of other Santas
and elves for the Welsh Hearts 5k walk, jog
or dash from Roald Dahl Plass around Cardiff
Bay. Entry £10 or £30 for family of 4.
Register online.
www.welshhearts.org
Tuesday 5th December
Night at the Tinworks
Aberdulais, National Trust SA10 8EU
5.30pm - 8pm. Adults £7.50; children £3.75;
family £18.75. Stories told by lanterns
as you are taken back to the days of the
tinworks. Bringing our heritage to life,
with night-time walks, tin worker dress up
and a first-hand view on how Tin crafted a
world-wide industry, right on this very spot.
Learn the family ways of the Tinworks, and
try your hand at Victorian life. Wear weather
appropriate clothing and take a torch. Tel:
01639 636674. www.nationatrust.org.uk
LIVE BROADCAST: Royal Ballet Live -
The Nutcracker
Memo Arts Centre Gladstone Road,
Barry, CF62 8NA
7.15pm. The enchanting Christmas
classical ballet, performed to Tchaikovsky’s
magnificent score, broadcast live from
the Royal Opera House. Tickets: Full £15;
concession £14; U16s £11. Tel: 01446 738622.
www.memoartscentre.co.uk
Wednesday 6th December
Toddler Time Monthly Movies: A Child’s
Christmas in Wales
National Waterfront Museum,
Swansea, SA1 3RD
10.30am (English language); 11.30am
(Welsh language). Enjoy a free fun movie
screening exclusively for preschool children
and their parents or carers.
Tel: 029 2057 3600.
www.museum.wales/swansea
Thursday 7th December
Audio Description Tour:
Evolution of Wales
National Museum Cardiff Cathays Park,
Cardiff, CF10 3NP
11am - 1pm. Follow the story of Wales from
its earliest geological origins, 4,600 million
years ago, on a journey from the formation of
the Earth to the present day. This is a guided
audio description of the collection for visitors
who are blind or partially sighted. A sighted
companion is welcome to accompany you
on the tour. There is also a limited amount of
guided assistance from Museum staff - please
mention this when booking. Free.
Booking essential.
Tel: 029 2057 3240.
www.museumwales.ac.uk
Friday 8th December
Dinky Dragons
Cardiff Story Museum
The Old Library, The Hayes, Cardiff CF10 1BH
10am - 3pm. Free drop in event especially for
babies, toddlers and their grown- ups. Rhyme
and story time at 11am and 1pm.
Tel: 029 2034 6214. www.cardiffstory.com
Carry on Screaming Screening:
Menashe
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
Every Friday at 11am, Carry on Screaming
allows parents or carers to see a film at
Chapter without having to worry about their
baby causing a disturbance. Tickets: £2.50 -
£4.50. Free entry for babies. Book online or
on 029 2030 4400.
www.chapter.org
Christmas carol concert with
Spectrum Singers
Dyffryn Gardens Nr St Nicholas, CF5 6SU
7.30 - 9.15pm. Adults £15; under 16s £10;
under 2s on laps £2. Get into the festive
spirit with a Christmas carol concert in the
beautifully decorated Great Hall.
Tel: 029 2059 0813.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
10
Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/cardiff
Continued on page 12

Winter Season at Parc
OPEN 10am–5pm every weekend and during
the school holidays
CLOSED midweek during term time and
on Christmas eve, Christmas Day, Boxing day
and New Years’ day
Winter workshop
Get your fix of fresh air by completing
the winter trail, then relax and get
cosy in our Winter workshop.
Host your own Private Party
Exclusive afterschool hire of Parc for
you and 60 of your friends for only
£180.
Book online at parcplay.com/book
and select Private Hire option
Limited dates still available for 2017.
Now taking bookings for Jan and Feb
2018.
Science discovery centre
in Cardiff Bay
A Techniquest Christmas Carol
9-10, 16-17, 23, 27-31 December & 2-8 January
Come and see Techniquest’s magical science show this Christmas.
It’s a festive treat for all the family!
029 20 475 475
www.techniquest.org
TQcardiff
Techniquest
www.primarytimes.net/cardiff | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 11

WHAT’S ON WHERE
Saturday 9th December
Saturnalia
National Roman Legion Museum Caerleon,
NP18 1AE
11am - 4pm. Celebrate the festival of
Saturnalia, the Roman winter festival similar
to Christmas, with Roman food, games,
dressing up and craft activities.
Tel: 029 2057 3544.
www.museumwales.ac.uk/roman
Gallery Workshop: Spaceships!
Chapter, Market Road, Cardiff CF5 1QE
Using Larissa Sansour’s exhibition as
inspiration this is a chance for your to build
your very own spaceship out of a variety of
different materials and paints. All spaceships
that are made will be displayed in the Foyer
area for the whole of the following week.
Cost: £3. Drop in activity (approx. 30mins per
spaceship). Recommended Age: 5+.
Tel: 029 2030 4400. www.chapter.org
Yuletide Log and Wreath Making
Victoria Park, Cardiff, CF5 1EY
10.30am - 3.30pm. Logs £2.50, table
decorations £3.50, wreaths £7.50. Make
your own Yuletide logs and wreaths for the
festive season. Last entry 2.30pm.
Tel: 029 2044 5903. www.oudoorcardiff.com
Scrappy Sheep Club: Upcycle A Bauble
National Wool Museum, Dre-fach-
Felindre, SA44 5UP
12pm - 3pm. Free. Turn a boring plain
bauble into a special new decoration to hang
on the tree. Family activity.
Tel: 029 2057 3600. www.museumwales
Winter Workshop
Parc Play Unit 5, Curran Embankment,
Grangetown, Cardiff, CF10 5DX
11am & 2.30pm. Complete the winter
trail before enjoying Christmas crafts in the
cosy cabin. Tel: 029 2034 5696.
www.parcplay.com
Afternoon Tea at Toad Hall
Sherman Theatre CF24 4YE
4.30pm. £9.50 per child. Toad’s
Housekeeper extends you a warm
welcome to Toad Hall. Join her for crafting,
songs and games before settling down
for a fine Riverbanker afternoon tea.
Whether you are attending a performance
of one of the Christmas shows or not, this
is a full of fun activity to keep your little
animals entertained. All children must be
accompanied by an adult. Duration 90 mins.
To book tel: 029 2064 6900.
www.shermantheatre.co.uk
Family Film
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
11am Son of Bigfoot. 3pm The Muppet
Christmas Carol. Children under 12-years-old
must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets:
£2.50 - £4.50. Book online or on
029 2030 4400. www.chapter.org
Saturday 9th - Sunday 10th December
Lights in the Sky
Techniquest, Cardiff Bay, CF10 5BW
Throughout the day. Shooting stars, planets,
rainbows and more! Look up into the night
sky to explore the many lights that have
fascinated humans for centuries. Discover
their origins, from nearby satellites to distant
stars, and find out which lights in the sky you
can see from your own back garden. If you’re
lucky you may even catch a glimpse of the
Northern Lights! Suitable for ages 7+. £1.50
addition to admission price.
Plus:
A Techniquest Christmas Carol
Throughout the day. Witness some
unbelievable festive illusions, and then
watch the science behind the magic.
Plus:
Pawprints in the Winter Sky
Throughout the day. Help Izzy take a tour
of the night sky as she learns about the
animals that you can find amongst the stars.
Depending on the season, see what animals
you can find. It might be a bull, a lion, a
dragon or a winged horse! Suitable for under-
7s. £1.50 addition to admission price.
Tel: 029 2047 5475. www.techniquest.org
Christmas Craft Market
Tredegar House, Pencarn Way,
Newport, NP10 8YW
11am - 4pm. Free entry. Mooch around
the Christmas markets offering a range of
foods and gifts from local traders.
Tel: 01633 811650.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/tredegarhouse
Breakfast with the Elves
Dyffryn Gardens Nr St Nicholas, CF5 6SU
9am - 10am. Adults £10.95; children
£7.95. Enjoy a cooked breakfast, play
games and do some colouring with our Elves
in the Garden’s Café. Adults get free refills of
tea and coffee and every child receives a gift.
Tel: 029 2059 0813. www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Sunday 10th December
Christmas Memorial Service
Thornhill Crematorium, Thornhill Rd,
Cardiff CF14 9UA
2pm - 3.30pm. Everyone is welcome to
join Bereavement Service’s annual memorial
service to commemorate all burials and
cremations in Cardiff. Refreshments will
follow the service. Christmas memorial tree
tags will be available from 3rd December
2017 for a donation of £2. Tags to be placed
on the memorial tree until 12th night. Tel:
029 2044 5903. www.oudoorcardiff.com
Family Film
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
11am The Muppet Christmas Carol. 3pm Son
of Bigfoot. Children under 12-years-old must
be accompanied by an adult. Tickets: £2.50
- £4.50. Book online or on 029 2030 4400.
www.chapter.org
Cardiff by Candlelight
City Hospice Grounds of Whitchurch
Hospital, CF14 7BF
4pm - 8pm. Take the family along for
a festive candlelit walk around Whitchurch.
Browse the craft stalls, sing carols and
meet Santa. Mulled wine and mince pies/
refreshments available. Free entry. Donations
welcome. www.cityhospice.org.uk
Lunchtime Concert
National Museum Cardiff Cathays Park,
Cardiff, CF10 3NP
1pm. A performance by students from the
Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama.
Free. Tel: 0300 111 2 333.
www.museumwales.ac.uk
Winter Workshop
Parc Play, Unit 5, Curran Embankment,
Grangetown, Cardiff, CF10 5DX
11am & 2.30pm. Complete the winter
trail before enjoying Christmas crafts in the
cosy cabin. Plus Join RSPB Cymru for some
nature based family activities.
Tel: 029 2034 5696.
www.parcplay.com
CARDIFF WINTER WOMDERLAND
Yuletide Log and Wreath Making
Roath Pleasure Park Bowls Pavilion,
Cardiff, CF23 5NP
10.30am - 3.30pm Logs £2.50, table
decorations £3.50, wreaths £7.50. Make your
own Yuletide logs and wreaths for the festive
season. Last entry 2.30pm. Tel: 029 2044
5904. www.oudoorcardiff.com
Do it your Elf! Craft Workshops
The Red Dragon Centre Cardiff Bay
CF10 4JY
12pm - 4pm. Drop into the free Elf
workshop and design and take home your
own Elf hat with the help of Santa’s little
helpers! Chief Elf will reward you with your
own certificate and you can even complete
the look at Elfie’s face painting station. Plus
look out for an extraordinary Elf with his
own GIANT puppet reindeer! Festive fun for
all the family! Usual parking terms apply
(minimum spend applies) Full info at www.
thereddragoncentre.co.uk
Wednesday 13th December
Carols at Grange Gardens
Cardiff, CF11 7LJ
6.30pm - 7.30pm. Join the Community
Park Rangers for a traditional carol
concert at Grange Gardens bandstand. Wrap
up warm and take a torch if you have one. Tel:
029 2044 5903. www.oudoorcardiff.com
Thursday 14th December
Carols at Victoria Park
Cardiff, CF5 1EY
6.30pm - 7.30pm. Join the Community
Park Rangers for a traditional carol
concert at Grange Gardens bandstand. Wrap
up warm and take a torch if you have one. Tel:
029 2044 5904. www.oudoorcardiff.com
Friday 15th December
Carry on Screaming Screening: Star
Wars: The Last Jedi
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
Every Friday at 11am, Carry on Screaming
allows parents or carers to see a film at
Chapter without having to worry about their
baby causing a disturbance. Tickets: £2.50 -
£4.50. Free entry for babies. Book online or
on 029 2030 4400. www.chapter.org
Toddler Time
Wales Millennium Centre Bute Place, Cardiff
Bay CF10 5AL
11am - 2.30pm. Free. Take your tot to
the Centre for the monthly Toddler Time.
Introducing children to a new musical
instrument every month, Toddler Time
features a special programme of activities for
our littlest visitors. Let your little creatives
express themselves through crafts, bilingual
singing, music and storytelling sessions.
Using a range of materials you and your little
one will create and play and most of all, have
fun. Tel: 029 2063 6464. www.wmc.org.uk
Saturday 16th December
Festive Film: The Nightmare Before
Christmas 3D (PG: 1993)
National Waterfront Museum,
Swansea, SA1 3RD
2.30pm. Free family film.
Tel: 029 2057 3600.
www.museum.wales/swansea
Afternoon Tea at Toad Hall
Sherman Theatre, CF24 4YE
4.30pm. £9.50 per child. Toad’s
Housekeeper extends you a warm
welcome to Toad Hall. Join her for crafting,
songs and games before settling down
for a fine Riverbanker afternoon tea.
Whether you are attending a performance
of one of the Christmas shows or not, this
is a full of fun activity to keep your little
animals entertained. All children must be
accompanied by an adult. Duration 90 mins.
To book tel: 029 2064 6900.
www.shermantheatre.co.uk
Sand Snowman Competition
Ogmore-by-Sea Beach, CF32 0PB
Team registration at 10:30am, event starts
11am. Free festive family fun. Take a spade
and Santa hats and register your team (no
more than 5) Prize for winning team. Will not
go ahead if raining. Dress up warm! Meet at
the Pen-y-Bont SLSC building, Rivermouth car
park. Tel: 079665 72273.
www.beachacademywales.com
Monthly Nature Ramble
Forest Farm Warden Centre, Forest Farm Road,
Whitchurch, Cardiff, CF14 7JJ
10am - 12pm. Free. Take your binoculars (if
you have them) and join the Friends of Forest
Farm on a guided walk to identify the ever
changing array of birds and wildlife which call
Forest Farm home. Tel: 029 2044 5903.
www.outdoorcardiff.com
Family Film
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
11am + 3pm: Star Wars: The Last Jedi.
10.30am + 2pm The Muppet Christmas
Carol. Children under 12-years-old must
be accompanied by an adult. Tickets: £2.50
- £4.50. Book online or on 029 2030 4400.
www.chapter.org
12
Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/cardiff
Continued on page 18

c.co.uk/now
CHRISTMAS
CELEBRATIONS
THURSDAY NOS IAU 14/12/17, 7.30pm
Brangwyn Hall, Swansea Neuadd Brangwyn, Abertawe
FRIDAY NOS WENER 15/12/17, 7.30pm
St David’s Hall, Cardiff Neuadd Dewi Sant, Caerdydd
Singer/Presenter
Cantores/Cyflwynydd
Clare Teal
Conductor Arweinydd
Gavin Sutherland
BBC National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales
Cerddorfa a Chorws Cenedlaethol Cymreig y BBC
0800 052 1812
@bbcnow @bbcnowcymraeg
0800 052 1812 bbc.co.uk/now
1 Christmas @bbcnow Celebrations @bbcnowcymraeg 184x135.indd 1 07/11/2017 13:36
christmas family ad 185x134.indd 1 13/10/2017 13:01
www.primarytimes.net/cardiff | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 13

PARC TREFTADAETH CWM
RHONDDA
TAITH PYLLAU GLO CYMRU
Diwrnod hwyl i'r teulu cyfan mewn pwll glo go iawn yng
Nghymoedd y De. Mwynhewch Daith yr Aur Du gyda theithiau
tywys o dan ddaear, ewch â'r plant i ardal chwarae'r Parth Ynni
ac ymlaciwch a bwytewch yng Nghaffi Bracchi.
PARC GWLEDIG CWM DÂR
ABERDÂR
Bwydwch y hwyaid ar y llyn llachar ym Mharc Gwledig Cwm Dâr a dewch
â’ch sgwter neu feic ar hyd y llwybrau – cewch chi adeiladu cestyll tywod
yn y parc hefyd! Ewch i Gaffi Cwtch am damaid blasus neu goffi. Mae
rhywbeth at ddant pawb yng Nghwm Dâr.
D
A
F
P
e
o
s
Y BATHDY BRENHINOL
LLANTRISANT
Beth am ymweld â Phrofiad y Bathdy Brenhinol? Dyma gyfle i
chi ddarganfod y bobl ac achlysuron tu ôl i'r arian yn eich
poced. Beth am fathu darn o arian?
Am ragor o ddiwrnodau i'w cofio
For more great days out...
www.croesorhct.cymru
www.visitrct.wales
visitrct

RHONDDA HERITAGE PARK
WELSH MINING EXPERIENCE
A great day out for the entire family at an authentic
South Wales Valley coal mine. Enjoy the Black Gold
Experience with its underground guided tour and learn
about the international story of Welsh coal. Take the
children to the Energy Zone play area and relax &
refuel at Caffe Bracchi.
DARE VALLEY COUNTRY PARK
ABERDARE
Feed the ducks on the magnificent lake at Dare Valley Country
Park and scoot, bike or walk along the scenic trails - you can
even make sandcastles in the park! Pack a picnic and explore,
or relax with a delicious bite to eat at Cafe Cwtch. There's
something for everyone at Dare Valley!
THE ROYAL MINT EXPERIENCE
LLANTRISANT
Visit The Royal Mint Experience in Llantrisant and discover
the people and events behind the coins in your pocket -
you can even strike your own coin.
Paratowch ar gyfer hwyl yn
yr awyr agored, ar droed neu
ar feic, ym Mharc Gwledig
Barry Sidings!
Mae'r parc prydferth ger Trehafod
yn llawn llwybrau i'w harchwilio,
yn ogystal â llwybr beicio (sy'n
addas i bob oed), maes chwarae
gwych i blant, pwll hwyaid a
mannau picnic/barbeciw.
Mae'r caffi yn gwneud
ysgytlaethau eithafol anghygoel,
byrgyrs mawr a llawer yn rhagor!
Maes parcio am ddim felly
dewch i archwilio!
Get ready for some outdoor
fun, on two feet or two
wheels, at Barry Sidings
Countryside Park!
The stunning park near Trehafod
is packed with trails to explore, as
well as a bike pump track
(suitable for all ages), a great
children's playground, duck pond
and picnic plus barbecue areas.
The cafe serves amazing freak
shakes, loaded burgers and a
whole lot more!
Parking is free so why not come
and explore?

OH CHRISTMAS TREE
Forestry Commission England’s guide
to choosing the perfect Christmas tree
What better way to celebrate the
festive season than with the most
glorious Christmas tree. But other
than size, what are the things to
consider when buying your Christmas
centrepiece? Each tree species can
be a little different in size, scent and
needle retention so it’s difficult to know
which Christmas tree to buy. Delight
your family and guests this Christmas by
using Forestry Commission England’s
expert guide to picking the perfect tree
for you.
Norway Spruce
Considered the traditional Christmas tree,
the Norway Spruce is best known for:
• A wonderful shape and an abundance
of branches – great for hanging lots of
decorations!
• A lovely ‘Christmassy’ scent that’s
perfect at this time of year
Who does it suit?
With a long lasting scent and a traditional
shape, Norway spruce are perfect for
those who appreciate the classic look and
smell of Christmas.
Tips
To help your spruce retain its needles
you need to place it away from any
radiators/fires and water it every day.
Nordmann fir
The star qualities of a Nordmann fir are:
• Having soft foliage and an even shape –
making it a joy to decorate!
• Glossy, dark green needles that have a
whitish/light blue underside
Who does it suit?
With its big needles which are lovely and
soft, Nordmann fir are perfect for those
with young children.
Tips
You will need a big space to show off a
Nordmann fir in its full glory. For a 6ft tall
tree allow approximately 5ft space.
Lodgepole pine
The Lodgepole pine is an ideal Christmas
tree due to its:
• Bushy appearance and luscious long
green needles
• Branches that point upwards which
hold a wonderful pine scent
Who does it suit?
With the best needle retention of them
all, Lodgepole pines are perfect for
those who like a long festive season and
decorate their tree as early as possible.
Tips
High ceilings are a must for this tree; make
sure you measure the height of your room
where you plan to put the tree before you
go pick one up from the forest!
Caring for your Christmas tree
Preventing needles dropping and the
green from fading on your Christmas tree
requires a little bit of care and attention.
Follow our top tips for a longer lasting,
healthier real Christmas tree!
1. Cut off 2.5cm from the trunk to aid with
water absorption
2. Put the tree in a stand with the trunk
immersed in water
3. Keep your tree in a cool, dry space.
Away from radiators and fires
4. Water your tree regularly
Why buy real?
Being experts in trees, woodlands and
sustainable forestry, Forestry Commission
England’s real Christmas trees are so
good, even Santa has given his stamp of
approval. But why buy real?
1. Real trees use 10 times fewer materials and
five times less energy than artificial trees.
2. They are completely biodegradable.
3. They are grown in the UK
4. A tree is planted for every tree
harvested
5. You’ll have a free baby sapling,
to plant your own tree
A lovely ‘Christmassy’
scent that’s perfect at
this time of year
©Forestry Commission, Crown Copyright
It will also come with a certificate of
authenticity to guarantee the trees
quality, which will be signed by Santa
himself.
There is so much more on offer when you
buy your tree from the forest. You can
meet Santa and enjoy a whole range of
Christmas activities for both little and big
kids to get into the festive spirit!
To find your nearest forest sales
centre, or check out top tree tips on
keeping your tree fresh and healthy
over the festive holidays visit www.
forestry.gov.uk/christmas
16
Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/cardiff

CHRISTMAS LUNCH
WITH SANTA
£16.95 per Adult
£9.95 per Child (Up to the Age of 12)
Children under the age of three
are complimentary when
accompanied by a full paying adult
CHRISTMAS
DAY LUNCH
Starting from £50.00 per person
Enjoy the Festive period without
the hassle, it’s all here at
Copthorne Cardiff
NEW YEARS EVE
FAMILY NIGHT
£45.00 per Adult
£22.50 per Child
3 Course Buffet in Raglans Restaurant,
Disco & Children’s Entertainment
How to Book: Plan your perfect event today. Email your enquiry
to events.cardiff@millenniumhotels.co.uk or call 029 2029 4333
to speak to a dedicated member of our events team.

WHAT’S ON WHERE
Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th
December
Breakfast with the Elves
Dyffryn Gardens Nr St Nicholas, CF5 6SU
9am - 10am. Adults £10.95; children
£7.95. Enjoy a cooked breakfast, play
games and do some colouring with our Elves
in the Garden’s Café. Adults get free refills of
tea and coffee and every child receives a gift.
Tel: 029 2059 0813. www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Christmas in the Museum
National Museum, Cathays Park, Cardiff,
CF10 3NP
10am - 4pm. Enter a Christmas
wonderland… Make a Christmas craft
and follow a trail of pesky elves around the
Museum! And if you’re very good there might
be a visit from Father Christmas… Charges
apply for some activities. Tel: 0300 111 2 333.
www.museumwales.ac.uk
Winter Workshop
Parc Play Unit 5, Curran Embankment,
Grangetown, Cardiff, CF10 5DX
11am & 2.30pm. Complete the winter
trail before enjoying Christmas crafts in the
cosy cabin. Tel: 029 2034 5696.
www.parcplay.com
Lights in the Sky
Techniquest, Cardiff Bay, CF10 5BW
Throughout the day. Look up into the night
sky to explore the many lights that have
fascinated humans for centuries. Discover
their origins, from nearby satellites to distant
stars, and find out which lights in the sky you
can see from your own back garden. If you’re
lucky you may even catch a glimpse of the
Northern Lights! Suitable for ages 7+. £1.50
addition to admission price.
Plus:
A Techniquest Christmas Carol
Throughout the day. Witness some
unbelievable festive illusions, and then
watch the science behind the magic.
Plus:
Pawprints in the Winter Sky
Throughout the day. Help Izzy take a tour
of the night sky as she learns about the
animals that you can find amongst the stars.
Depending on the season, see what animals
you can find. It might be a bull, a lion, a
dragon or a winged horse! Suitable for under-
7s. £1.50 addition to admission price.
Tel: 029 2047 5475. www.techniquest.org
Christmas Craft Market
Tredegar House, Pencarn Way,
Newport, NP10 8YW
11am - 4pm. Free entry. Mooch around
CARDIFF WINTER WOMDERLAND
the Christmas markets offering a range of
foods and gifts from local traders.
Tel: 01633 811650.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/tredegarhouse
Sunday 17th December
Family Film
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
10.30am + 1.30pm:
Star Wars: The Last Jedi, 10.30am
The Muppet Christmas Carol.
Children under 12-years-old must be
accompanied by an adult. Tickets: £2.50 -
£4.50. Book online or on 029 2030 4400.
www.chapter.org
Tuesday 19th December
Christmas Carol Evening
National Wool Museum, Dre-fach-
Felindre, SA44 5UP
6.30pm - 8pm. Enjoy a fest of festive
carol singing. Tel: 029 2057 3600.
www.museumwales
Tuesday 19th - Friday 22nd December
A Very Gormley Christmas
National Museum, Cathays Park,
Cardiff, CF10 3NP
11am - 1pm & 2 - 4pm. Be inspired
by the Bacon to Doig exhibition to make
Christmas cards and decorations. You could
make a Christmas decorations inspired
by Anthony Gormley’s figures and snowy
Christmas card scenes inspired by Peter Doig
and his love of painting snow. Free. Tel: 0300
111 2 333. www.museumwales.ac.uk
Friday 22nd December
Carry on Screaming Screening: Murder
on the Orient Express
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
Every Friday at 11am, Carry on Screaming
allows parents or carers to see a film at
Chapter without having to worry about their
baby causing a disturbance. Tickets: £2.50 -
£4.50. Free entry for babies. Book online or on
029 2030 4400. www.chapter.org
Doggy Tinsel Walk
Cwmcarn Forest Visitor Centre Cwmcarn,
NP11 7FA
10.30am - 1pm. Get in to the Festive
spirit with your four legged friend and enjoy
this leisurely stroll around the Valley, before
returning to the centre for a well earned
treat!! Hot chocolate and mince pies for well
behaved owners and treats galore for canine
friends. Tinsel is optional but most welcome,
with a prize for the best dressed pooch!!
Booking essential as places are limited. £5 per
adult. £3.50 per child. Dogs go for free! Tel:
01495 272001. www.cwmcarnforest.co.uk
Saturday 23rd December
Family Film
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
11am + 3pm Star Wars: The Last
Jedi. 10.30am The Muppet Christmas
Carol. Children under 12-years-old must
be accompanied by an adult. Tickets: £2.50
- £4.50. Book online or on 029 2030 4400.
www.chapter.org
Cinema: Arthur Christmas (U)
Memo Arts Centre Gladstone Road,
Barry, CF62 8NA
3pm. Festive animated comedy for
all the family. When a small girl’s Christmas
present is forgotten, Santa’s son Arthur
(voiced by James McAvoy) sets out to deliver
it, causing mayhem along the way. Advance
tickets £3; on the door £3.50. Tel: 01446
738622. www.memoartscentre.co.uk
Afternoon Tea at Toad Hall
Sherman Theatre, CF24 4YE
4.30pm. £9.50 per child. Toad’s
Housekeeper extends you a warm
welcome to Toad Hall. Join her for crafting,
songs and games before settling down
for a fine Riverbanker afternoon tea.
Whether you are attending a performance
of one of the Christmas shows or not, this
is a full of fun activity to keep your little
animals entertained. All children must be
accompanied by an adult. Duration 90 mins.
To book tel: 029 2064 6900.
www.shermantheatre.co.uk
A Techniquest Christmas Carol
Techniquest, Cardiff Bay, CF10 5BW
Throughout the day. Witness some
unbelievable festive illusions, and then
watch the science behind the magic
Plus:
Pawprints in the Winter Sky
Throughout the day. Help Izzy take a tour
of the night sky as she learns about the
animals that you can find amongst the stars.
Depending on the season, see what animals
you can find. It might be a bull, a lion, a
dragon or a winged horse! Suitable for under-
7s. £1.50 addition to admission price.
Plus:
Star Tours
Throughout the day. Find out more about
some familiar constellations, the planets,
how stars are born and how they die. The
Digital Planetarium can take you through
space for a close up look at some of nature’s
most beautiful sights such as distant galaxies
and exploded stars. Suitable for ages 7+.
£1.50 addition to admission price.
Tel: 029 2047 5475. www.techniquest.org
Sunday 24th December
Family Film
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
11am + 2pm: Star Wars: The Last
Jedi, 10.30am The Muppet Christmas
Carol. Children under 12-years-old must
be accompanied by an adult. Tickets: £2.50
- £4.50. Book online or on 029 2030 4400.
www.chapter.org
Wednesday 27th December
Family Crafts
Cardiff Story Museum
The Old Library, The Hayes,
Cardiff CF10 1BH
Drop in during the Christmas holidays for
some creative, crafty fun for all the family! £1
per child, craft activity changes weekly. Tel:
029 2034 6214. www.cardiffstory.com
Family Film
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
11am + 2pm: Star Wars: The Last Jedi,
3pm Paddington 2. Children under 12-yearsold
must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets:
£2.50 - £4.50. Book online or on
029 2030 4400. www.chapter.org
Wednesday 27th - Sunday 31st
December
A Techniquest Christmas Carol
Techniquest, Cardiff Bay, CF10 5BW
Throughout the day. Witness some
unbelievable festive illusions, and then
watch the science behind the magic.
Plus:
Pawprints in the Winter Sky
Throughout the day. Help Izzy take a tour
of the night sky as she learns about the
animals that you can find amongst the stars.
Depending on the season, see what animals
you can find. It might be a bull, a lion, a
dragon or a winged horse! Suitable for under-
7s. £1.50 addition to admission price.
Plus:
Star Tours
Throughout the day. Find out more about
some familiar constellations, the planets,
how stars are born and how they die. The
Digital Planetarium can take you through
space for a close up look at some of nature’s
most beautiful sights such as distant galaxies
and exploded stars. Suitable for ages 7+.
£1.50 addition to admission price.
Tel: 029 2047 5475. www.techniquest.org
Thursday 28th December
Family Film
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE. 11am + 2pm: Star Wars: The
Last Jedi. 10.30am Paddington 2. Children
under 12-years-old must be accompanied by
an adult. Tickets: £2.50 - £4.50. Book online
or on 029 2030 4400. www.chapter.org
New Year Crafty Calendars
National Waterfront Museum,
Swansea, SA1 3RD
12.30pm - 3.30pm. Join the activity table to
make a cool 3D calendar. Tel: 029 2057 3600.
www.museum.wales/swansea
Friday 29th December
Family Film
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE. 2pm Paddington 2. 3pm
Star Wars: The Last Jedi. Children under
12-years-old must be accompanied by an
adult. Tickets: £2.50 - £4.50.
Plus:
Carry on Screaming Screening: Star
Wars: The Last Jedi
11am. Carry on Screaming allows parents
or carers to see a film at Chapter without
having to worry about their baby causing a
disturbance. Tickets: £2.50 - £4.50. Free entry
for babies. Book online or on 029 2030 4400.
www.chapter.org
Cinema: Ferdinand (U/TBC)
Memo Arts Centre Gladstone Road,
Barry, CF62 8NA. 11am. In this new family
animated movie, Ferdinand is a giant bull
with a big heart. But when he is mistaken for
a dangerous beast, Ferdinand is captured and
torn from his home and family. Determined to
return, he rallies a misfit team for the ultimate
adventure. Set in Spain, Ferdinand proves you
can’t judge a bull by its cover. Advance tickets £3;
on the door £3.50. Tel: 01446 738622.
www.memoartscentre.co.uk
18
Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/cardiff
Continued on page 22

GIVE A
gift
experience
THIS CHRISTMAS
If you’re looking for something that’s truly
memorbale, then give an experience to treasure
at the Vale Resort this Christmas. Sit back, relax
and enjoy some stress free Christmas shopping
from the comfort of your very own armchair.
SPA TREATMENTS | GOLF LESSONS
AFTERNOON TEA | SHORT BREAKS
ROUND OF GOLF | PAMPER DAYS
A LA CARTE DINNER | GOLF MEMBERSHIP
MONETARY VOUCHERS | SUNDAY LUNCH
AND MUCH MUCH MORE
CLICK OR COLLECT - THE CHOICE IS YOURS
www.valeresort.com/gifts
Hensol Park, Hensol,
Vale of Glamorgan, CF72 8JY
PT.11.17
www.primarytimes.net/cardiff | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 19

TOP TIPS
TOP TIPS
Cardiff Children’s Literature Festival launch
with Sir Chris Hoy MBE
City Hall, Cardiff, Tuesday 12 December 2017, 6.30-7.30pm. All tickets £5. The sixth Cardiff Children’s Literature Festival
gets off to a flying start as Olympic cyclist Sir Chris Hoy rides into City Hall on Tuesday 12th December, to introduce his
new book from his series for young readers; Flying Fergus 7: The Wreck It Race.
Team GB’s most successful Olympic athlete Chris Hoy, along with award-winning co-author Joanna Nadin and
illustrator Clare Elsom, will take you on a fantastically fun, magical cycling adventure to explore the enchanting world
of Flying Fergus through teamwork, creativity and a whole lot of action. The event marks the launch of the 2018 Cardiff
Children’s Literature Festival programme. The festival, spread over two weeks from 21st - 29th April, celebrates the very
best in contemporary children’s books, with events in both English and Welsh.
No back peddling, book your tickets NOW! www.visitcardiff.com/events
TicketlineUK 029 20 230 130 #CardiffIs Kids Lit Fest
Santa's Toy Mine
Santa’s Toy Mine at the Welsh Mining Experience, Rhondda Heritage Park, Trehafod, CF37 2NP. 15 minutes from Cardiff
A trip to Santa’s Toy Mine is a must during the festive season! Each child who visits Santa’s Toy Mine will not only be
guided on a magical journey through the toy mine itself, but they will come face-to-face with the great man himself
and receive a special gift to take home. Santa hasn’t forgotten the grown ups and he’s arranged for a hot drink and a
mince pie for you to enjoy before you embark on your underground adventure.
New for 2017 is a Giant Snow Globe, Make-Your-Own Teddy Bear Workshop and the opportunity for Photos
With Santa (additional costs apply).
Is your little one a big
rugby fan?
In the second home fixture of the 2018 Six Nations, Wales
will take on Italy at the home of Welsh Rugby, Principality
Stadium. Is your little one a big rugby fan, then why not
bring them down to the Stadium to support Wales in a Six
Nations game?
For the first time ever we have
introduced an U16 ticket for
Wales v Italy. Let your little one
experience the atmosphere, as
they watch their rugby heroes
on pitch and see their face light
up with excitement. Tickets will
be priced at £20 for U16 tickets
with adult tickets starting from
£30 available from
wru.wales/tickets
Wales v Italy – Sunday 11th
March 2018, KO 3pm.
Santa’s Toy Mine is open at the Welsh Mining
Experience, Rhondda Heritage Park, daily from
November 24 until Christmas Eve. For more
information and to book your tickets visit
www.rhonddaheritagepark.com
The Welsh Mining Experience will close for two
weeks at the beginning of January but will
re-open to welcome visitors from all over the
world in mid January 2018.. Book your Black Gold
underground guided tour, enjoy the Energy Zone
play area and relax and refuel in Cafe Bracchi.
Traditional Welsh
Christmas
Our Christmas Nights are back on 6 – 9 December and there’s no
better way to kick off the Festive Season! This December sees the
return of a St Fagans favourite, so if you’re looking for a traditional
Welsh Christmas to remember, why not grab a torch, wrap up
warm and follow the star to St Fagans this year! Celebrate in style
with carols in the chapel, traditional Welsh Plygain singing in the
church and a Brass Band on Gwalia Green. Make a start on your
Christmas shopping at our Makers’ Market – a chance to pick up
gifts and treats you won’t find on the High Street.
For the little ones there’ll be a chance to meet Santa, with a tale
or two from Mother Christmas to keep you entertained while you
wait your turn. You can write your Christmas list at the Victorian
Schoolhouse and post it at Wales’ smallest post office. Then make
something special at our family friendly craft workshops. With
logs on the fire, trimmings on the tree and plenty of yuletide
family fun - there’s sure to be something to jingle your bells at St
Fagans this Christmas.
Tickets: £15 adult, £8 child, under 2s free
All tickets for this event must be purchased in advance via
www ticketlineuk.com or (029) 2023 0130.
20
Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/cardiff

Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland
After record numbers of skaters took to the ice last year, the
2017 season is now on sale with a larger rink and a number of
themed nights planned. More than 60,000 people got their
skates on last year when the Admiral Ice Rink went undercover
for the first time, which resulted in no sessions being lost to
poor weather, and an even more magical experience under the
sparkling, starlit roof.
This year Cardiff becomes the first outdoor rink in the UK to
receive Access Accreditation, allowing even more wheelchair
users onto the ice. Norman George Sayers, operator of Cardiff’s
Winter Wonderland said: “The clear span roof last year just
served to enhance the festive experience for visitors, and no
one was inconvenienced by the weather. We’ll be returning
with all the seasonal favourites plus new attractions to make
Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland central once again to the city’s
Christmas celebrations.”
The rink opens on November 9 and over the following eight and a half weeks more than a
quarter of a million people are anticipated on site, attracted by the Giant Wheel and other
fairground rides, plus all the food and drink on offer in the authentic Alpine Village and the cosy,
atmospheric Bier Keller. The Penguin population has also increased this year, and for the first
time they can be pre-booked for toddlers who need a little extra support on the ice.
Tickets: Cardiffswinterwonderland.com and TicketSource on 0333 666 3366.
T: @CardiffsWWL F: CardiffsWinterWonderland17 #cardiffiswinterwonderland
TOP TIPS
A Swinging Christmas
Swing into Christmas in style this year as award-winning jazz singer and BBC Radio 2 presenter Clare Teal joins BBC National
Orchestra and Chorus of Wales, conducted by Gavin Sutherland. Clare Teal is one of the UK’s most celebrated and much loved
singers; with her stunning voice, encyclopaedic knowledge of jazz, swing and big band music, and her innate warmth and wit.
Following in the footsteps of some the jazz greats, Clare performs a swinging Christmas set to get you and all the family into
the festive spirit. “I’m always hugely impressed by the dynamic range of an orchestra, quiet as a mouse one second, thundering
down your earhole in a most exhilarating fashion the next. It’s marvellous.” says Clare. “I’ve heard such great things about BBC
NOW; I can’t wait to meet them. Having BBC National Chorus of Wales on board too is the icing on the cake!”
Join BBC National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales for Christmas Celebrations with Clare Teal on Thursday 14 December at the
Brangwyn Hall, Swansea or Friday 15 December at St David’s Hall, Cardiff. For further information and tickets visit bbc.co.uk/
bbcnow or call the BBC NOW Audience Line on 0800 052 1812.
Love Food? Then You’ll Love JRC!
JRC Buffet is a restaurant like no other. You’ll find hundreds of delicious, freshly prepared dishes. Their stylish restaurants
are perfect for any special occasion or just catching up with family and friends. With so much choice, parents love
introducing new dishes to their children – even the fussiest eaters will find new dishes they’ll love. Your kids will love
watching JRC’s chefs prepare delicious meals from fresh ingredients at the spectacular Live Cooking Stations, which add
a sense of occasion to any meal. At the Sushi Bar you’ll see chefs preparing authentic Japanese Sushi using recipes that
have been handed down from generation to generation. It’s healthy, fresh and extremely delicious! Watch in awe at the
Teppanyaki Bar as expert chefs prepare your meal with flair, creativity and a touch of showmanship! The chef takes your
choice of fresh ingredients and transforms them on the sizzling hotplate into delicious creations. Originally
from Japan Yakatori Grill is very popular in Japanese restaurants throughout the World. Nothing beats the
taste of fresh king prawns, squid and marinated meats grilled over real flames by JRC’s Yakatori chef! You’ll
find food cooked in a wok at the Noodle & Wok Bar is as healthy as it gets as it uses a very small amount of
oil- so go on, have a second or third helping. At the Dim Sum bar, each dim sum has been handmade and
filled with ingredients from traditional recipes. The art of creating dim sum took centuries to evolve and
develop - no wonder they taste so delicious!
But don’t forget to leave room for one or a few of the indulgent desserts. Remember you can enjoy as
much as you like for one set price. A trip to JRC is great value and great fun at Christmas and well into the
New Year. Visit www.jrc-globalbuffet.com to find your local restaurant.
An evening of festive fun
Join us for an evening of festive fun on Sunday 10th December, 4pm – 8pm. City Hospice, Grounds of Whitchurch Hospital,
Cardiff, CF14 7BF. Bring your family and friends along to celebrate Christmas with a 5K candlelit walk around Whitchurch, browse
our Christmas craft fayre, join in with Christmas carols and meet Santa in his grotto too! We’ll have plenty of things to keep
children occupied while you shop, and lots of mulled wine and mince pies available too.
Entry is free, and all donations will be gratefully received. All donations at the event will be match funded by the Jane Hodge
Foundation as part of our Light up a Life appeal. Visit www.cityhospice.org.uk for more information
www.primarytimes.net/cardiff | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 21

WHAT’S ON WHERE
Saturday 30th December
Family Film
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
11am Star Wars: The Last Jedi. 3pm
Paddington 2. Children under 12-years-old
must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets:
£2.50 - £4.50. Book online or on 029 2030
4400. www.chapter.org
Cinema: Ferdinand (U/TBC)
Memo Arts Centre Gladstone Road,
Barry, CF62 8NA
4pm. Advance tickets £3; on the door £3.50.
Tel: 01446 738622.
www.memoartscentre.co.uk
Afternoon Tea at Toad Hall
Sherman Theatre CF24 4YE
4.30pm. £9.50 per child. Toad’s Housekeeper
extends you a warm welcome to Toad Hall.
Join her for crafting, songs and games
before settling down for a fine Riverbanker
afternoon tea. Whether you are attending a
performance of one of the Christmas shows
or not, this is a full of fun activity to keep your
little animals entertained. All children must
be accompanied by an adult. Duration 90
mins. To book tel: 029 2064 6900.
www.shermantheatre.co.uk
Sunday 31st December
New Year’s Eve Party
City Hall Lawn Cardiff CF10 3ND
Celebrate the New Year in Cardiff’s Civic
Centre. Skate in the New Year on the Admiral
Ice Rink at Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland,
enjoy the live music, family fun fair and be
in a prime position to watch the spectacular
midnight firework display after the big
count down. Tel: 0333 666 3366. www.
cardiffswinterwonderland.com
JANUARY
Tuesday 2nd January
Cinema:Ferdinand (U/TBC)
Memo Arts Centre Gladstone Road, Barry,
CF62 8NA
11am.
Plus:
Cinema:Paddington 2 (PG)
3pm. Advance tickets £3; on the door £3.50.
Tel: 01446 738622. ww.memoartscentre.co.uk
Tuesday 2nd - Monday 8th January
A Techniquest Christmas Carol
Techniquest, Cardiff Bay, CF10 5BW
Throughout the day. Witness some
unbelievable festive illusions, and then watch
the science behind the magic.
Plus
Star Tours
Throughout the day. Find out more about
some familiar constellations, the planets, how
stars are born and how they die. The Digital
Planetarium can take you through space
for a close up look at some of nature’s most
beautiful sights such as distant galaxies and
exploded stars. Suitable for ages 7+. £1.50
addition to admission price.
Plus:
Pawprints in the Winter Sky
Throughout the day. Help Izzy take a tour
of the night sky as she learns about the
animals that you can find amongst the stars.
Depending on the season, see what animals
you can find. It might be a bull, a lion, a
dragon or a winged horse! Suitable for under-
7s. £1.50 addition to admission price. Tel: 029
2047 5475. www.techniquest.org
Wednesday 3rd January
Family Crafts
Cardiff Story Museum
The Old Library, The Hayes, Cardiff CF10 1BH
Drop in during the Christmas holidays for
some creative, crafty fun for all the family! £1
per child, craft activity changes weekly.
Tel: 029 2034 6214. www.cardiffstory.com
Cinema: Ferdinand (U/TBC)
Memo Arts Centre, Gladstone Road,
Barry, CF62 8NA
3pm. Advance tickets £3; on the door £3.50.
Tel: 01446 738622.
www.memoartscentre.co.uk
Toddler Time Monthly Movies: Snow
White and the Seven Dwarfs (U: 1937)
National Waterfront Museum,
Swansea, SA1 3RD
10.30am. Enjoy a free fun movie screening
exclusively for preschool children and their
parents or carers. Tel: 029 2057 3600.
www.museum.wales/swansea
Thursday 4th January
Cinema: Ferdinand (U/TBC)
Memo Arts Centre Gladstone Road, Barry,
CF62 8NA
11am.
Plus:
Cinema:Paddington 2 (PG)
6pm. Advance tickets: £3; on the door £3.50.
Tel: 01446 738622.
www.memoartscentre.co.uk
Friday 5th January
Carry on Screaming Screening: Phone
for film details
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
Every Friday at 11am, Carry on Screaming
allows parents or carers to see a film at
Chapter without having to worry about their
baby causing a disturbance. Tickets: £2.50 -
£4.50. Free entry for babies. Book online or on
029 2030 4400. www.chapter.org
Cinema: Ferdinand (U/TBC)
Memo Arts Centre Gladstone Road,
Barry, CF62 8NA
11am. Advance tickets £3; on the door £3.50.
Tel: 01446 738622.
www.memoartscentre.co.uk
Little Mice Club – Snow
National Waterfront Museum,
Swansea, SA1 3RD
10.30am – 12pm. Free. Drop in with your
little ones to make, play and sing on the
theme of the festive season. And meet Morys
the Museum Mouse. Tel: 029 2057 3600.
www.museum.wales/swansea
Saturday 6th January
Family Talk: ‘Crash Bang Wallop!
Earthquakes, volcanoes and
meteorites.’
National Museum, Cathays Park,
Cardiff, CF10 3NP
1pm. Join Mineralogy and Petrology Curator
Andrew Haycock for a family-friendly talk,
with a chance to handle real volcanic rocks
and meteorites. Free. Book on arrival.
Tel: 0300 111 2 333.
www.museumwales.ac.uk
Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th January
Family Film: Phone for film details.
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
11am & 3pm. Children under 12-years-old
must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets:
£2.50 - £4.50. Book online or on
029 2030 4400.
www.chapter.org
Sunday 7th January
Museum Monthly Movies: Beauty and
the Beast 3D (PG: 2017)
National Waterfront Museum,
Swansea, SA1 3RD
2pm. Free. Tel: 029 2057 3600.
www.museum.wales/swansea
Friday 12th January
Dinky Dragons
Cardiff Story Museum
The Old Library, The Hayes, Cardiff CF10 1BH
10am - 3pm. Free drop in event especially for
babies, toddlers and their grown- ups. Rhyme
and story time at 11am and 1pm.
Tel: 029 2034 6214. www.cardiffstory.com
Carry on Screaming Screening: Phone
for film details
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
Every Friday at 11am, Carry on Screaming
allows parents or carers to see a film at
Chapter without having to worry about their
baby causing a disturbance. Tickets: £2.50 -
£4.50. Free entry for babies. Book online or
on 029 2030 4400. www.chapter.org
Toddler Day: Fairytale Fancy
Techniquest, Cardiff Bay, CF10 5BW
9:30am – 4:30pm. Once a month during
term-time, pre-school children have their
run of the exhibits with activities on a special
theme. There’ll be storytime and singalong,
a mini-disco and something to make to take
home. Techniquest is buggy-friendly, with
nappy-changing facilities and lockers. Under-
4s free, accompanying adults £5.50.
Tel: 029 2047 5475. www.techniquest.org
Saturday 13th January
Cinema: Ferdinand (U/TBC)
Memo Arts Centre Gladstone Road,
Barry, CF62 8NA
1pm. Advance tickets £3; on the door £3.50.
Tel: 01446 738622.
www.memoartscentre.co.uk
Star Attractions
National Museum, Cathays Park,
Cardiff, CF10 3NP
10am – 4pm. Have an ‘out of this world’ time!
Meet astronomers and scientists as they
explain the wonders of the universe and take
part in some awesome activities to do with
space. Tel: 0300 111 2 333.
www.museumwales.ac.uk
Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th January
Family Film: Phone for film details.
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE. 11am & 3pm. Children
under 12-years-old must be accompanied by
an adult. Tickets: £2.50 - £4.50. Book online
or on 029 2030 4400. www.chapter.org
Flight Fantastic
Techniquest, Cardiff Bay, CF10 5BW
Throughout the day. For thousands of
years, humans have looked at birds and
other creatures that fly, and tried to do so
themselves. Explore with us how humans are
harnessing the forces of the natural world to
overcome the many problems of getting off
the ground. Discover more about the science
behind how we have overcome the forces of
gravity, and soared up into the sky!
Plus:
Giants of the Solar System
Throughout the day. Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus
and Neptune are the largest planets in the
solar system; they are known as the Gas
Giants. However, these are not just balls of
Gas as their name suggests. They are the
guardians of the Solar System, protecting
the inner planets from potentially life
threatening collisions with space debris. Visit
the planetarium and find out the true nature
of these Giants. Suitable for ages 7+. £1.50
addition to admission price.
Plus:
Starman and his Dog
Throughout the day. Did you know that the
Sun is a star? The star that is in the sky in the
daytime. Discover who the Starman is as he
helps you find pictures in the night sky by
joining the stars together using imaginary
lines. Did you know that in the sky there
are young, adult and old stars? Suitable for
under-7s. £1.50 addition to admission price.
Tel: 029 2047 5475. www.techniquest.org
Sunday 14th January
Lunchtime Concert
National Museum, Cathays Park,
Cardiff, CF10 3NP
1pm. A performance by students from the
Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama.
Free. Tel: 0300 111 2 333.
www.museumwales.ac.uk
Friday 19th January
Carry on Screaming Screening:
Phone for film details
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
Every Friday at 11am, Carry on Screaming
allows parents or carers to see a film at
Chapter without having to worry about their
baby causing a disturbance. Tickets: £2.50 -
£4.50. Free entry for babies. Book online or
on 029 2030 4400. www.chapter.org
Continued on page 24
22 Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/cardiff
CARDIFF WINTER WOMDERLAND

www.primarytimes.net/cardiff | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 23

WHAT’S ON WHERE
Toddler Time
Wales Millennium Centre Bute Place,
Cardiff Bay CF10 5AL
11am - 2.30pm. Free. Introducing children
to a new musical instrument every month,
Toddler Time features a special programme of
activities for our littlest visitors. Let your little
creatives express themselves through crafts,
bilingual singing, music and storytelling
sessions. Using a range of materials you and
your little one will create and play and most
of all, have fun.
Tel: 029 2063 6464.
www.wmc.org.uk
Saturday 20th January
Be a Game Creator
National Waterfront Museum,
Swansea, SA1 3RD
10.30am, 12.30pm and 1.30pm. Free but
booking required. Join award-winning Big
Learning Company to have a go at building
and coding your own computer game. Ideal
for 7–11 year olds.
Tel: 029 2057 3600.
www.museum.wales/swansea
Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st January
Family Film: Phone for film details.
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
11am & 3pm. Children under 12-years-old
must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets:
£2.50 - £4.50. Book online or on
029 2030 4400. www.chapter.org
Flight Fantastic
Techniquest, Cardiff Bay, CF10 5BW
Throughout the day. For thousands of
years, humans have looked at birds and
other creatures that fly, and tried to do so
themselves. Explore with us how humans are
harnessing the forces of the natural world to
overcome the many problems of getting off
the ground. Discover more about the science
behind how we have overcome the forces of
gravity, and soared up into the sky!
Plus:
Giants of the Solar System
Throughout the day. Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus
and Neptune are the largest planets in the
solar system; they are known as the Gas
Giants. However, these are not just balls of
Gas as their name suggests. They are the
guardians of the Solar System, protecting
the inner planets from potentially life
threatening collisions with space debris. Visit
the planetarium and find out the true nature
of these Giants.
Suitable for ages 7+. £1.50 addition to
admission price.
CARDIFF WINTER WOMDERLAND
Plus:
Starman and his Dog
Throughout the day. Did you know that the
Sun is a star? The star that is in the sky in the
daytime. Discover who the Starman is as he
helps you find pictures in the night sky by
joining the stars together using imaginary
lines. Did you know that in the sky there
are young, adult and old stars? Suitable for
under-7s. £1.50 addition to admission price.
Tel: 029 2047 5475. www.techniquest.org
Sunday 21st January
Curator’s Cabinet of Curiosities – Love
National Waterfront Museum,
Swansea, SA1 3RD
12.30pm – 2.30pm. Free. Pop in to meet
the curator and find out about a fascinating
collection of themed artefacts.
Plus:
Love Sunday
12pm - 4pm. Celebrate Santes Dwynwen, the
Welsh patron saint of lovers in this afternoon
of all things LOVE. Tel: 029 2057 3600.
www.museum.wales/swansea
Shark Egg Hunt
Ogmore-by-Sea Beach CF32 0PB
2pm. Free family fun. Find out more about
sharks in welsh waters and hunt for their
eggcases, if you dare!! Dress for the outdoors.
Meet at the Pen-y-Bont SLSC building,
Rivermouth car park. Tel: 07966 572273.
www.beachacademywales.com
Friday 26th January
Carry on Screaming Screening:
Phone for film details
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
Every Friday at 11am, Carry on Screaming
allows parents or carers to see a film at
Chapter without having to worry about their
baby causing a disturbance. Tickets: £2.50 -
£4.50. Free entry for babies. Book online or on
029 2030 4400.
www.chapter.org
Stargazing Evening
National Waterfront Museum,
Swansea, SA1 3RD
7pm. Free. Enjoy a special winter stargazing
evening whilst the skies are at their darkest.
Learn how to use a telescope and try some
cosmic crafts. Tel: 029 2057 3600.
www.museum.wales/swansea
Saturday 27th January
First World War Family Day
National Museum, Cathays Park,
Cardiff, CF10 3NP
10am – 4pm. What was everyday life like
during the First World War? What did people
eat, how did they dress, do their hair or even
dance? Shake your tail feather in a dance
class or watch food historian Seren Evans
Charrington prepare food from the time. If
you’ve got family stories to share as well,they
can be added to the ‘Peoples Collection Wales’.
Tel: 0300 111 2 333.
www.museumwales.ac.uk
Amazing Astronomy Day
National Waterfront Museum,
Swansea, SA1 3RD
12pm – 4pm. Free. A full day to inspire,
inform and celebrate all things in the night
sky.
Plus:
Star Dome
12pm, 1pm, 2pm & 3pm. Free but booking
required. An awe inspiring whistle-stop tour
of the stars in an inflatable planetarium.
Suitable for Age 7+.
Plus:
Thrifty Kids: Pom Pom Pals
10.30am – 12.30pm. Free. Learn how to
make handmade pom-poms from colourful
wool and turn them into little animal pals.
Tel: 029 2057 3600.
www.museum.wales/swansea
Saturday 27th & Sunday 28th January
Family Film: Phone for film details.
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
11am & 3pm. Children under 12-years-old
must be accompanied by an adult.
Tickets: £2.50 - £4.50. Book online or on
029 2030 4400. www.chapter.org
Flight Fantastic
Throughout the day. For thousands of
years, humans have looked at birds and
other creatures that fly, and tried to do so
themselves. Explore with us how humans are
harnessing the forces of the natural world to
overcome the many problems of getting off
the ground. Discover more about the science
behind how we have overcome the forces of
gravity, and soared up into the sky!
Plus:
Giants of the Solar System
Throughout the day. Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus
and Neptune are the largest planets in the
solar system; they are known as the Gas
Giants. However, these are not just balls of
Gas as their name suggests. They are the
guardians of the Solar System, protecting
the inner planets from potentially life
threatening collisions with space debris. Visit
the planetarium and find out the true nature
of these Giants. Suitable for ages 7+. £1.50
addition to admission price.
Plus:
Starman and his Dog
Throughout the day. Did you know that the
Sun is a star? The star that is in the sky in the
daytime. Discover who the Starman is as he
helps you find pictures in the night sky by
joining the stars together using imaginary
lines. Did you know that in the sky there
are young, adult and old stars? Suitable for
under-7s. £1.50 addition to admission price.
Tel: 029 2047 5475. www.techniquest.org
Sunday 28th January
Fireside Stories - National Storytelling
Week
St Fagans National Museum of History St
Fagans, CF5 6XB
11.30am - 12.30pm & 1.30pm -3.30pm.
Free. As part of National Storytelling Week,
snuggle up by the fire for a tale or two to
spark your imagination. Tel 029 2057 3500.
www.museum.wales/stfagans
FEBRUARY
Friday 2nd February
Carry on Screaming Screening:
Phone for film details
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
Every Friday at 11am, Carry on Screaming
allows parents or carers to see a film at
Chapter without having to worry about their
baby causing a disturbance.
Tickets: £2.50 - £4.50. Free entry for babies.
Book online or on 029 2030 4400.
www.chapter.org
Toddler Day: Up, Up and Away!
Techniquest, Cardiff Bay, CF10 5BW
9:30am – 4:30pm. Once a month during
term-time, pre-school children have their
run of the exhibits with activities on a special
theme. There’ll be storytime and singalong,
a mini-disco and something to make to take
home. Techniquest is buggy-friendly, with
nappy-changing facilities and lockers. Under-
4s free, accompanying adults £5.50.
Tel: 029 2047 5475.
www.techniquest.org
Saturday 3rd & Sunday 4th February
Family Film: Phone for film details.
Chapter Arts Centre Market Road,
Canton, CF5 1QE
11am & 3pm. Children under 12-years-old
must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets:
£2.50 - £4.50. Book online or on
029 2030 4400.
www.chapter.org
Flight Fantastic
Techniquest, Cardiff Bay, CF10 5BW
Throughout the day. For thousands of
years, humans have looked at birds and
other creatures that fly, and tried to do so
themselves. Explore with us how humans are
harnessing the forces of the natural world to
overcome the many problems of getting off
the ground. Discover more about the science
behind how we have overcome the forces of
gravity, and soared up into the sky!
Plus:
Giants of the Solar System
Throughout the day. Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus
and Neptune are the largest planets in the
solar system; they are known as the Gas
Giants. However, these are not just balls of
Gas as their name suggests. They are the
guardians of the Solar System, protecting
the inner planets from potentially life
threatening collisions with space debris. Visit
the planetarium and find out the true nature
of these Giants. Suitable for ages 7+. £1.50
addition to admission price.
Plus:
Starman and his Dog
Throughout the day. Did you know that the
Sun is a star? The star that is in the sky in the
daytime. Discover who the Starman is as he
helps you find pictures in the night sky by
joining the stars together using imaginary
lines. Did you know that in the sky there
are young, adult and old stars? Suitable for
under-7s. £1.50 addition to admission price.
Tel: 029 2047 5475.
www.techniquest.org
24
Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/cardiff

www.primarytimes.net/cardiff | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 25

PINBOARD
Pinboard
CALM LITTLE
SORE THROATS
WITH THROATY
SOOTHE
Sore throats are not fun and can
impact children’s (and parents) eating,
sleeping and moods. Thankfully, there
is a new sore throat treatment range
for children, Throaty Soothe, which
combines natural ingredients, free
from artificial colours and provides parents and carers with a safe and effective option to
help treat sore throats and dry and productive coughs.
Sugar free, Throaty Soothe syrup, can be used from 12 months and contains Icelandic
moss and mallow in a cherry flavoured syrup. Available in a strawberry flavour, Throaty
Soothe lozenges, for children aged 4 years and older contains Icelandic moss and calcium
pantothenate. Calcium pantothenate supports the soothing effect of Icelandic moss.
www.throatysoothe.co.uk
The west end comes
to Cowbridge!
The Vale Academy of Performing Arts is set to open
its doors in January to new students aged between
5 - 12 years old. This brand new theatre school
will offer inspiring classes in Acting, Singing and
Dance. It promises to provide an energetic, fun
environment where children can explore, be creative
and let their confidence grow. Children will learn
from industry professionals from the WEST END,
BRITAIN’S GOT TALENT and the X-FACTOR! Sessions
will run on a Saturday morning at Cowbridge
Comprehensive School. To book a FREE TRIAL or for more information visit
www.valeacademy.co.uk or contact us on Email: laurabrind@me.com Tel: 07830 178941
Be part of Wales' Biggest
Tea Party 2018
Brew Up in March for Welsh
Hearts - The Heart Charity
for Wales Biggest Tea
Party and help the charity
fund lifesaving Public
Access Defibrillators and
heart screening
throughout Wales!
Why not get together with
your friends, family or
work colleagues or in your
School to hold a tea party
or coffee morning. Why
not have a cake sale at
school or in the Office or a coffee morning or Afternoon Tea Party involving friends and family
and raise much needed funds for Welsh Hearts, your local heart charity! Your event can be held
anytime in March or during the spring! To register for your Wales' Biggest Tea Party fundraising
pack which contains everything from invitations, ideas, posters to stickers and balloons contact
02922402670
Download a fundraising pack at
www.welshhearts.org/teaparty or email fundraising@welshhearts.org
Tomorrow's generation
Tomorrow’s Generation is a registered charity providing a range of dyslexia support services
for children and young people. Our bright, welcoming specialist dyslexia centre in Lisvane,
Cardiff is open five days per week during term time and home to ‘Launchpad for Learning,’
fun, engaging literacy and numeracy support days for children aged 7-11 years. A range of
additional services are on offer at the centre including holiday schools, one to one tuition,
diagnostic assessment, training courses and parent workshops.
For more information: Visit: www.tomorrowsgeneration.co.uk Call: 02920 755729
Email: admin@tomorrowsgeneration.co.uk.
Do you miss being a nurse?
Our short programme will enable you to return to the nursing career you once
loved. Our NMC accredited 15 week programme facilitates nurses who have lapsed
registration transition back into practice.
• You’ll be part of a small close-knit class in our Ty Dewi Sant teaching building based
at the University Hospital of Wales.
• You will have excellent teaching staff who will be on hand to support you throughout
your studies and clinical placement.
• The Welsh Government will also support you by funding your tuition fees.*
*To find out more visit us at www.cardiff.ac.uk/healthcare-sciences.
Help give the gift of life by
supporting the Tiny Lives Appeal
The Noah’s Ark Charity have happily announced that its £1 million neonatal
appeal, Tiny Lives, has exceeded its halfway target, exactly a year after it was
launch last November. The money raised has already been committed to funding
life-saving equipment like incubators, an X-Ray machine to monitor a neonatal
babies ever changing condition and blenders that combine the air and
oxygen delivered to a baby according to their individual needs. The charity is now
asking the public to support the appeal’s second phase as it continues to raise
funds for the 560 premature and critically ill babies cared for at the University
Hospital of Wales neonatal unit each year. For more information, visit
www.noahsarkcharity.org/tinylives
26
Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/cardiff

OUR PROMISE
Sugar free
Free from
arficial colours
For sore throats and coughs
as a result of a cold.
Let’s get kids back
to happy.
Discotots
Discotots has continued to go from
strength to strength since winning
the Netmums award for ‘Best Party
Entertainer Category in Wales’ and
the Mums In The Know award for
‘Best Class for 2-4yr olds’! Disco
lights, bubbles, exciting props,
dancing, games and lots more!
Bilingual Discotots parties
are also now available to book!
For more information about our
funky, action packed birthday
parties (up to 8yrs), or our upbeat
preschool class (0-4yrs) contact us
now: W: www.discotots.com
E: info@discotots.com.
For parties T: 07870626318
For classes T: 07876177017
with a
AT JRC GLOBAL BUFFET
BOOK YOUR TABLE TODAY!
www.jrc-globalbuffet.com
JRCGlobalBuffet
JRC_Buffet
www.primarytimes.net/cardiff | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 27

BOX OFFICE
BoxOffice
Your family theatre guide...
0231512
0231513
TICKET
TICKET
WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE
BUTE PLACE, CARDIFF BAY
CF10 5AL
Box office: 029 2063 6464
www.wmc.org.uk
30th November - 2nd December
Second Star to the Right
Dreams aren’t what they used to be in
Neverland. With Peter Pan gone, who
can save Imagination, Adventure and the
Second Star to the Right? This Christmas
join Odyssey, Hijinx’s community theatre
group, as they restore hope to Neverland in a
sparkling new production written by Llinos
Mai. The Second Star to the Right features
a vibrant cast of disabled and non-disabled
performers from Odyssey, pupils from
Woodlands High School and haunting,
original music. All ages welcome.
Tickets: £9. Under 16s £6.
Performance: Thu – Sat 7pm & Sat 3pm.
12th - 31st December
The Bear
Ever wondered what it would be like to sit
on a polar bear’s lap? Or ride on its back?
Have you ever tried to give a bear a bath?
Or clear up its poo?! Looking after a bear
is exhausting stuff. One night when she’s
fast asleep, an enormous snowy white
bear climbs into Tilly’s bedroom. It has
a big black tongue and a yawn as big as
your head. But Tilly’s not scared. Based on
Raymond Briggs’ much-loved storybook,
The Bear is a heart-warming and humorous
wintry tale featuring dazzling puppetry,
delicious music, dreamy storytelling,
and dozens of laughs. An unforgettable
experience for the whole family The Bear is
a perfect introduction to theatre for little
people. Age 3+. Tickets: £10. Lap tickets £2.
Performance: Tue – Sun (except Sunday 26th
December) 10.30am & 1.30pm.
Tuesday 26 December - 1.30pm & 4.30pm.
NEW THEATRE
PARK PLACE, CARDIFF
CF10 3LN
Box Office: 029 2087 8889
www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk
9th December - 14th January
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
Starring Samantha Womack as The Wicked
Queen, Gareth Thomas as the Henchman,
Mike Doyle as Nurse. Chico as Prince
Charming, Tam Ryan as Muddles and
Stephanie Webber as Snow White. The
New Theatre’s family pantomime features
an abundance of comedy and music,
sensational dance numbers, fabulous
costumes and stunning scenery. Throw in
a magical mirror, seven friendly dwarfs,
a beautiful princess, a handsome prince
and plenty of audience participation as we
outwit the Wicked Queen, then you have a
glittering festive treat for all ages.
Tickets: £13 - £34. Performance: Times vary.
13th - 17th February
The Sound of Music
Running Time: 2hr 40mins. One of the
greatest musicals of all time returns to
the stage in this magnificent five star
production to enchant the young and the
young at heart. This wonderfully lavish
staging tells the true story of the worldfamous
singing family, from their romantic
beginnings and search for happiness, to
their thrilling escape to freedom at the start
of WWll. The unforgettable score features
some of the most memorable songs ever
performed on stage, including Edelweiss,
My Favorite Things, Do-Re-Mi, Climb Ev’ry
Mountain, So Long Farewell, and of course,
The Sound of Music Tickets: £24.50 - £48.50.
Performance: Evenings 7.30pm. Wednesday,
Thursday & Saturday Matinees 2.30pm.
22nd - 25th February
What the Ladybird Heard
Running Time: 55mins. Two crafty robbers,
one tiny ladybird, and a whole farmyard
of fun! Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len have
SAD 20 IONAWR
SAT 20 JANUARY
2.30pm
SAD 20 IONAWR
SAT 20 JANUARY
5.30pm
(BSL Interpreted Performance)
LITTLE
RED
AND THE
BIG BAD
WOLF
UNITY THEATRE
SUL 21 IONAWR
SUN 21 JANUARY
11.30pm
(Relaxed Performance)
‘Perfectly formed...
recaptures the art of
sharing folktales by
the fireside’
★★★★ The Stage
Tocynnau | Tickets £7
Theatr Richard Burton Theatre
Ages
5+
Oed
Tocynnau | Tickets
029 2039 1391
www.rwcmd.ac.uk
28
Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/cardiff

a cunning plan to steal the farmer’s fine
prize cow. But they reckon without the
tiniest, quietest creature of all: The Ladybird
has a plan of her own! Join the woolly
sheep, the hairy hog, the fat red hen and
the dainty dog in this glittering stage
adaptation of Julia Donaldson & Lydia
Monks’ colourful farmyard adventure. With
live music, puppetry, plenty of audience
participation and lots of laughs! Age 3+.
For a sneak preview of the trailer visit:
whattheladybirdheardlive.co.uk Tickets: £11
- £15. U16: £11. Performance: Thursday 2pm,
Friday - Sunday 11am & 2pm.
SHERMAN THEATRE CARDIFF
CF24 4YE
Box Office: 029 2064 6900
www.shermantheatre.co.uk
1st - 30th December
The Wind in the Willows
Mole is discovering the Wide World beyond
his home. Rat just wants to mess about in
boats. For Toad, it’s one fad after another
until he discovers cars and lands himself
SHERMAN THEATRE CARDIFF
in bother. Wise old Badger does his best
to keep order. But as the friends head out
on their adventures, home will always be
calling them back. With a stunning set,
beautiful costumes, live music, and lots of
laughter this version of Kenneth Grahame’s
classic book promises an utterly delightful
trip to the theatre.. Tickets: £16 - £26. £2
off for concessions. U25s half price. Schools
£8 (1 teacher per 10 pupils goes free)
Performance: Times vary.
25th November - 30th December
The Magic Porridge Pot
Ages 3 - 6. In a village on the edge of the
Enormous Forest, Aggie is always trying to
help her mother and the other villagers, but
often ends up just making a mess. Whilst
on one of her adventures Aggie is given a
magical pot which makes tasty porridge,
but when her mother tries her hand at it
and can’t make the pot stop, the town is
filled with porridge and Aggie’s help is really
needed... by everyone. The Magic Porridge
Pot is overflowing with songs, music and fun
for all the family, especially those under 7,
this Christmas. Tickets: £9; Schools: £6.50.
Performance: times vary.
ROYAL WELSH COLLEGE OF
MUSIC & DRAMA
CASTLE GROUNDS, CATHAYS
PARK, CARDIFF, CF10 3ER
Box Office: 029 2039 1391
www.rwcmd.ac.uk
3rd - 5th December
Cinderella
Enjoy live orchestra for an age old fairy-tale
about cruel stepsisters and glass slippers.
With an enchanting mix of music, film and
illustrations, along with a toe-tapping
Christmas overture and the Snowman
Waltz, this is the perfect introduction to
the orchestra for all the family. Tickets: £10,
£8 Under 16s (Schools £5) Performance: 3
December 2pm; 4 December 10am & 12pm;
5 December 10am & 12pm.
7th & 8th December
Christmas on Broadway
Royal Welsh College Musical Theatre Soloists
Royal Welsh College Concert Orchestra.
David Mahoney conductor. Christmas on
Broadway returns to the Dora Stoutzker
stage for an evening of timeless classics
and contemporary repertoire in a unique
celebration of Christmas on Broadway.
From Santa Baby to White Christmas with
all the trimmings in between, this glitzy
musical winter wonderland is not to be
missed! Tickets: Adults £15; children £13.
Performance: 7.30pm.
20th & 21st January
Little Red And The Big Bad Wolf
Unity Theatre. Enjoy a bold and highly
theatrical re-telling of the well-known
classic tale packed with music, dance and
song. The production explores the thrill
of adventure and unknown versus the
safety and familiarity of the path and how
irresistible straying can be, as well as the
tension between mankind and nature.
Are the wolves really the villains in a
world where the woodcutter is destroying
the forest? And is Grandma the trophy
hunter really sick? Age 5+. Tickets: £7.
Performance: 20 January 2.30pm & 5.30pm
BSL Interpreted Performance. 21 January
11.30am Relaxed Performance.
ST DAVID’S HALL
THE HAYES, CARDIFF CF10 1AH
Box Office: 029 2087 8444
www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk
16th - 19th December
(no show Sun 17th Dec)
Tiddly Prom: Bert & Cherry’s
Christmas Plum Pudding
This special performance from the Tiddly
Prom team brings Bert, Cherry and many of
their musical friends back together for fun
and frivolity. Featuring songs from Bert’s
three popular Tiddly Proms alongside festive
favourites, this interactive live musical
show is an ideal way for the under 5s to
re-introduce the adults they look after to
Christmas. Bert is in a festive mood; the
christmas tree is up and he’s wrapped up
every thing ready for the big day. Cherry is
coming to help put the finishing touches to
the decorations and all their friends will be
popping in too. As usual expect a lively story,
lots silly songs to sing along to and a large
helping of musical plum pudding. Tickets:
£7.50. Performance:10.30am & 12.30pm.
19th & 20th December
Ballet: Cinderella
The world’s favourite rags to riches fairy-tale
where dreams can come true is a magical
mix of Prokofiev’s energetic score, lively
choreography and colourful costumes. Whilst
BOX OFFICE
TICKETS £9
Children & Under 25s
HALF PRICE
CHRISTMAS
AT SHERMAN
THEATRE
NADOLIG YN
THEATR Y
SHERMAN
ONLY 2 MINUTES
from Cathays train station
SHERMANTHEATRE.CO.UK
029 2064 6900
#ChristmasAtTheSherman
Sherman Cymru Productions Ltd | Registered Charity Number 1118364
Images Emily Jones | Design burningred
THE MAGIC
PORRIDGE POT
HUD Y
CROCHAN UWD
3 & 4 Nov / Tach & 25 Nov /
Tach - 30 Dec / Rhag 2017
By / Gan The Brothers Grimm
A new version by / Fersiwn newydd
gan Alun Saunders
Director / Cyfarwyddwr Elgan Rhys
THE WIND IN
THE WILLOWS
1 - 30 Dec / Rhag 2017
By / Gan Kenneth Grahame
Adaptation / Addasiad Mike Kenny
Director / Cyfarwyddwr Lee Lyford
ST0172_Christmas At The Sherman_Around Town Advert.indd 1 17/08/2017 11:29
www.primarytimes.net/cardiff | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 29

BOX OFFICE
her mad / bad stepmother and her
ill-mannered step-sisters prepare for the
Royal Ball, graceful Cinderella can only dream
of dancing with the dashing Prince. Later
that evening, her rags become a glittering
gown and she is swept magically to the Ball.
From that very moment the Prince is smitten,
midnight strikes and one lost crystal slipper
later, he must now embark on a journey
to find his lost love…. Tickets: Adult from
£16.60 - £47.50; children £8.25 – £19.95;
family tickets (2 adults/2 children) £46.50 -
£111. Performance: Tue 19 Dec 7pm, Wed 20
Dec 2pm & 5.30pm.
21st - 24th December
Ballet: The Nutcracker
This most famous of fantasy ballets for all
the family begins at nightfall on Christmas
Eve. As snowflakes tumble outside, the
warm glow of the open fire sends flickering
shadows across the boughs of the Christmas
tree and all the presents beneath. When
midnight strikes we are swept away to a
fairytale world where nothing is quite as
it seems, toy dolls spring to life, the Mouse
King and his mouse army battle with the
Nutcracker Prince and we travel through
the Land of Snow to an enchanted place
where the magic really begins… Tickets:
Adult from £16.60 - £47.50; children £8.25
– £19.95; family tickets (2 adults/2 children)
£46.50 - £111. Performance: Thu 21 Dec 2pm
& 7pm; Fri 22 Dec 2pm & 5.30pm; Sat 23 Dec
2pm & 5.30pm; Sun 24 Dec 2pm.
27th - 31st December
Ballet: Swan Lake
This most famous of fantasy ballets for all
the family begins at nightfall on Christmas
Eve. As snowflakes tumble outside, the
warm glow of the open fire sends flickering
shadows across the boughs of the Christmas
tree and all the presents beneath. When
midnight strikes we are swept away to a
fairytale world where nothing is quite as
it seems, toy dolls spring to life, the Mouse
King and his mouse army battle with the
Nutcracker Prince and we travel through
the Land of Snow to an enchanted place
where the magic really begins… Tickets:
Adult from £16.60 - £47.50; children £8.25
– £19.95; family tickets (2 adults/2 children)
£46.50 - £111. Performance: Wed 27 - Fri 29
Dec 2pm & 7pm; Sat 30 Dec 2pm & 5.30pm;
Sun 31 Dec 2pm. Multi-Ballet Saver -
Book for any 2 ballets at the same time and
save 20% or Book for 3 ballets at the same
time and save 25% on full price adult tickets
only. Terms and conditions apply.
CHAPTER
MARKET ROAD, CARDIFF
CF5 1QE
Box Office: 029 2030 4400
www.chapter.org
22nd & 23rd December
Likely Story Theatre: The Giant Who
Had No Heart in his Body
Dot and Agi live on a platform in the sky that
balances on very tall sticks way above the
clouds. They are story catchers. They catch
stories on the wind. They haven’t spoken for
475 days, 15 hours and 16 seconds.
Not that anyone is counting! Carried on the
wind, a story is coming…a Giant story…
one that will rock Dot and Agi’s world and
might just help them re-write their own
story. Likely Story Theatre bring their unique
story telling style to this classic Norwegian
fairy tale. With original music, puppetry and
a sprinkling of magic, this story tells more
than just the heroic deeds of princes and
princesses, of giants and big bad wolves,
but of facing your fears, becoming your own
hero and finding your courage.
Suitable for ages 7+. Tickets: £5 ; family
ticket £17. Performance: Fri 6pm.
Sat 11.30am + 3.30pm.
MEMO ARTS CENTRE
GLADSTONE ROAD, BARRY,
CF62 8NA
Box Office: 01446 738622
www.memoartscentre.co.uk
5th December
Santa in Love
Fun filled family musical complete with
games, giggles and all your favourite
Christmas songs. Santa will be available
after the show to meet your little ones
and give them a present, so don’t forget to
bring your camera to capture the smiles!
Perfect for age 2+. Tickets: Adults £8.50;
children £7.50 (includes a gift from Santa!),
Performance: 1pm.
14th - 17th December
The Snow Queen “A Frozen Tale”
BillBoard Ensemble. Enjoy a traditional,
family friendly pantomime with comedy,
lavish costumes and set, live orchestra and
featuring some of the songs from the hit
Disney film Frozen. Tickets: Adults £13;
concession £11; group (4) £45. Performance:
14th - 15th Dec 7:30pm; 16th Dec 11am &
2:30pm, Sun 17 Dec 2:30pm.
21st February
The Little Mix Experience
If you’re a fan of one of X Factor’s finest
exports you’re sure to L.O.V.E. the Little Mix
Experience! Four hugely talented girls pay
tribute to one of the UK’s finest Girl-Bands.
With breathtaking dance moves, replica
costumes and some of the finest vocals in
the UK, this is a high-energy show from
beginning to end, packed with all of Little
Mix’s greatest hits and suitable for all ages!
Tickets: £10.50 advance, £12.50 on the door.
Performance: 6:30pm.
MOTORPOINT ARENA
MARY ANN ST, CARDIFF CF10 2EQ
Box Office: 029 2022 4488
www.motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk
3rd December
Harry Potter and the Chamber of
Secrets - in concert
Cars fly, trees fight back, and monsters
are on the loose in Harry’s second year
at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and
Wizardry! This concert features the film
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
in high-definition, on a giant screen, while
a live orchestra performs John Williams’
unforgettable score. Relive every magical
moment as the music brings life to a story
that has bewitched the world.Tickets: £25 -
£65. Performance: 4pm (approximate).
30
Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/cardiff

Aladdin A5.qxp_Layout 1 26/10/2017 10:20 Page 1
ST PETERS CHURCH HALL
ST PETERS STREET, ROATH,
CARDIFF, CF24 3BA
Box Office: 077790 88623
29th November - 2nd December
Cinderella
St Peter’s Players present this favourite
of pantomimes. Family tickets on Wed &
Thursday. Tickets: Adults £7; children £5.
THE COLISEUM
MOUNT PLEASANT ST,
TRECYNON, ABERDARE CF44 8NG
Box Office: 03000 040 444
www.rct-theatres.co.uk
1st - 10th December
Aladdin
Starring Frank Vickery as Widow Twankey,
Laura Clements as Princess Jasmine
and Maxwell James as Aladdin. Tickets:
£15.50; concessions £12.50; Family (4) £48.
Performance: Times vary.
THE PARK & DARE, STATION
ROAD, TREORCHY CF42 6NL
Box Office: 03000 040 444
www.rct-theatres.co.uk
16th - 24th December
Aladdin
Starring Frank Vickery as Widow Twankey,
Laura Clements as Princess Jasmine
and Maxwell James as Aladdin. Tickets:
£15.50; concessions £12.50; Family (4) £48.
Performance: Times vary.
THE RIVERFRONT
KINGSWAY, NEWPORT NP20 1HG
Box Office: 01633 656757
www.tickets.newportlive.co.uk
5th December - 7th January
Aladdin
A whole host of colourful characters join
Aladdin as he struggles to see that good is
rewarded and that bad is punished. Full of
song, dance, drama and spectacle. Tickets from
£6.50 to £20.50. Performance: Times vary.
GRAND PAVILION
THE ESPLANADE,
PORTHCAWL, CF36 3YW
Box Office: 01656 815995
www.grandpavilion.co.uk
15th December - 7th January
Cinderella
Special effects, fabulous song and dance
routines and hilarious slap stick comedy.
And, don’t forget, there will be the most
gruesome twosome in Pantoland with
Cinderella’s Ugly Sisters plotting to stop
her getting to the ball! Making a welcome
return are Jolyon Dixon and Jeremy Cave
as Ugly Sisters, Nathan Guy as Buttons,
Rasheeda Ali as Cinderella, Jessie Lilley as
Prince Charming, Courtney King as Wicked
Stepmother and Fairy Godmother and
Eli Pavli-Hinde as Dandini. Tickets and
performance times vary. See website.
Hysgrifennu a’i chyfarwyddo gan | Written and directed by Richard Tunley
Rhagfyr 1 - 10 December
Y Colisëwm, The Coliseum,
Aberdâr Aberdare
Rhagfyr 16 - 24 December
Y Parc a’r Dâr, The Park & Dare,
Treorci Treorchy
Oedolion £15.50 Adults • Plant a Gostyngiadau £12.50 Children and Concessions
Tocyn Teulu £48.00 Family Ticket • Grwpiau o 20+ £9.00 Groups of 20+
03000 040 444
rct-theatres.co.uk
A’R
BOX OFFICE
PINS AND NEEDLES YN CYFLWYNO \ PRESENTS
Raymond Briggs ©1994
RHAG 12 – 31 DEC 2017
www.primarytimes.net/cardiff | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 31

COMPETITIONS
WIN!
WIN!
A Family Ticket and You Shall Go
to the Ball! Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl
Wednesday 3 January 2pm
Join Cinderella on a magical adventure from rags to riches
as her Fairy Godmother transforms her into a dazzling beauty
fit for a Prince. The show will be packed full of spectacular
scenery, breathtaking costumes, stunning special effects,
fabulous song and dance routines and hilarious slap stick comedy.
Cinderella promises to be a festive treat for all the family!
Cinderella runs from 15 Dec to 7 Jan 2018.
Box Office: 01656 815995 www.grandpavilion.co.uk
To enter these
fantastic competitions *
and more please go to...
WIN!
A Family Ticket to see
RCT Theatres’ magical panto Aladdin
Friday 22 December at 7.00pm
Get ready for the ride of
your life with RCT Theatres’
brand new traditional
family panto Aladdin,
flying into The Coliseum
Theatre Aberdare, Friday
1 – Sunday 10 December
and continuing at The Park
& Dare Theatre Treorchy,
Saturday 16 – Sunday
24 December. With heaps of comedy, some truly magical special
effects and tons of panto mayhem, this whirlwind adventure is the
perfect festive treat the whole family can
enjoy! For more information and to book
your tickets call the Box Office on 03000
040 444 or go to www.rct-theatres.co.uk.
*Family Ticket is for 4 people, at The Park &
Dare Theatre Treorchy.
WIN!
A family ticket for four
(4 seats, max 2 adults) to see The Bear
at Wales Millennium Centre
20 December at 1.30pm
Based on Raymond
Briggs' much-loved
storybook, The Bear
is a heart-warming
and humorous
wintry tale
featuring dazzling
puppetry, delicious
music, dreamy
storytelling, and
dozens of laughs. An unforgettable experience for the whole family,
The Bear is a perfect introduction to theatre for little people.
The Bear runs from 12 – 31 December
at Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff.
Age guidance 3+. Ticket Office:
029 2063 6464 www.wmc.org.uk
WIN!
A Family Ticket for 4 to visit The Royal
Mint Experience PLUS coin strike*
Prize valid until 31st March 2018
The Royal Mint
Experience near Cardiff
offers a wealth of fun
learning opportunities
for children of all ages.
It is the only place in
the world where they
can watch the UK’s coins being
made. Visitors can go behind the
scenes in a 45-minute guided
factory experience to follow the
journey of a coin and they will even have the opportunity to strike
their own coin. Family Tickets: £38.50 in advance, £40.00 on the
door, coin strike carries an additional charge *Family ticket is 4
tickets. Coin strike limited to 1 per person.
To Book: 0333 241 2223 www.royalmint.com/experience
32
Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/cardiff

www.primarytimes.net/cardiff/competitions or
Like us on Facebook at Primary Times Club-Cardiff
*Closing dates may vary
WIN!
A Family Ticket To The Magic Porridge
Pot / Cyfle I Ennill Tocyn Teulu I
Hyd y Crochan Uwd
This is your chance to
win a family ticket to
The Magic Porridge Pot.
This fun new version
of The Brothers Grimm
tale is performed at
separate performances
in either English or
Welsh. Dyma eich cyfle
i ennill tocyn teulu i Hud y Crochan Uwd. Mae'r fersiwn newydd
hyfryd hon o stori The Brothers Grimm yn cael ei berfformio mewn
sioeau ar wahân yn y Gymraeg ac yn Saesneg. ** Winner can choose
a date of their choice, subject to availability. Show runs from the 25
Nov - 30 Dec. Gall yr enillydd dewis dyddiad o’i ddewis, yn amodol ar
argaeledd. Mae’r sioe yn rhedeg o 25
Tach – 30 Rhag. For more information
visit / Am ragor o wybodaeth ewch i
shermanthatre.co.uk
WIN!
A family ticket to see Snow White
and the Seven Dwarfs at
the New Theatre
Mirror, mirror, on the
wall, don't miss the fairest
pantomime of them all.
Cardiff’s New Theatre is the
home of Christmas and this
year's spectacular family
panto is Snow White and
the Seven Dwarfs starring
Samantha Womack, Gareth Thomas, Mike Doyle, Chico, Tam Ryan
& Stephanie Webber. Win a family ticket for four people to see
the show in January – a fabulous New Year treat. The pantomime
is running from the 9 December 2017 – 14
January 2018, the lucky winner can choose
a date of their choice in January subject to
availability. Tickets are available now at
newtheatrecardiff.co.uk or on 029 2087 8889.
COMPETITIONS
Winner of The Primary Times Christmas Card!
NEW
entries and we would like to thank you all
Every year Primary Times asks children to
create the picture for our Christmas Card.
This year we received a sack full of wonderful
for taking the time to draw, colour, paint
and glitter your designs for us!
The overall winner of the competition is Holly
Zheng’s, aged 6 from Garnetbank Primary
School in Glasgow who will receive 50
Christmas cards made up in her design of
Santa next to a Christmas Tree. We were so
overwhelmed by the standard of entries that
we have also decided to award two runner up
prizes who will also receive 50 copies of their
designs made into cards, they were:
(Igloo) Sahaib Parvez, aged 10 from
Cambuslang, Glasgow
(nativity) Florence Holt, aged 6 from
Radley Primary School, Abingdon.
Everyone that entered was a winner.
(SANTA) HOLLY ZHENG
(IGLOO) SAHAIB PARVEZ
(NATIVITY) FLORENCE HOLT
www.primarytimes.net/cardiff | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 33

PINBOARD
Pinboard
Crime
investigation &
forensic science
workshops
Crime Solvers Ltd delivers
innovative and stimulating crime
investigation & forensic science
workshops to schools.
Pupils become Crime Scene
Investigators for the day & gain
experience of the science & other
techniques to follow the evidence
& solve the crime. • Supporting
STEM in the curriculum
• Promoting team working, critical thinking & presentation skills within • Unique
and entertaining framework based on the science deployed by police to solve crime
• Delivered on the school premises • All materials provided. “…from working with you
previously, I know how valuable your visits are to engage learners and to support the
class teacher in enriching the curriculum…” Primary School Head Caerphilly CBC. Based
in south Wales, close to the M4 Crime Solvers was founded in 2015 by Jon Williams, a
former senior police detective with over 20 years’ experience of investigating serious
crimes. Visit www.crimesolvers.co.uk or contact us on info@crimesolvers.co.uk to
discuss what a Crime Solvers workshop can offer your school.
FLUIDITY FREERUN ACADEMY
Fluidity Freerun Academy is a bespoke playground for Parkour
and Freerunning in the UK!
With qualified coaches, Fluidity Freerun offers an array of parkour/freerunning
classes, courses , open jump time as well as birthday parties and much more! Fluidity
have been pioneering the Welsh Parkour/Freerunning community for over 10 years
now, with unrivalled experience coaching across the UK
as well as performing abroad.
Our coaches will teach fundamental skills we use in parkour, which have amazing
health benefits as well as being incredibly good for self confidence,
as well as team being.
It is fully inclusive art, and as a result it is very appealing to kids, especially
those that aren't into competitive sports or perhaps a bit shy of team play.
Here at Fluidity we will help coach your kids through to learn new skills ,
make friends and overcome mental and physical barriers.
www.fluidityfreerunacademy.co.uk www.facebook.com/fluidityfreerunacademy
Develop your child dramatically!!!
Improve their Confidence, Communication and Social Skills Today! Places at the Helen
O’Grady Drama Academy for January 2018 are now open! Classes are held locally across
South Wales, please visit the website for local class information
www.helenogradysouthwales.co.uk. At the Helen O’Grady Drama Academy children
are given a platform to develop their communication skills; to act as if the world is their
stage; to stimulate their creative self and enjoy the freedom to experiment. Our unique
curriculum, which has helped thousands of children throughout the world, supports our
students to: • Develop their speech and language skills • Boost their confidence and
develop self esteem • Help to develop effective social interaction skills
• Lessons are packed with energy and are lots of fun for everyone!
The Helen O’Grady Drama Academy operates worldwide and throughout the UK. The
South Wales branch of the Academy is
one of the largest in the UK and all of
the children attending classes have a
wonderful time, growing in confidence
and self esteem each week! Classes
are very affordable and there are a
variety of payment options available.
All students are invited to attend for a
trial session first.
For more information, please contact
our South Wales office on: 029
2046 2540 or email southwales@
helenogrady.co.uk. Check out our
website: www.helenogrady.co.uk
Everycare
nannies
Take the pressure off childcare and have a Nanny
without being an employer. That’s right! Everycare
Nannies employs its own childcare staff and send
them to you for anything from a single evening
to full time support. We do all payroll, management, all holiday and sick cover, and
everything that employers are legally obliged to do! We are also members of the
Association of Nanny Agencies which provide regulations and best practice, so you’ll
know your family is in good hands. You’ll receive full support from beginning to end. A
stress free nanny experience is a call away. For more information please call Ellie Groom
on 02920 444705 or visit www.everycarenannies.co.uk
The Cardiff Bus ticket for
Festive Family Travel
Festive family outings just got even more jolly thanks to Cardiff Bus.
Whether it’s a spot of shopping, festive frolics at the Winter Wonderland, or a fun
outing to explore the city, the Family Day-To-Go Ticket will get you there. Thanks to its
unbeatable value, families can now explore the city and Penarth for just £8.50 in the
week, and £5.30 on weekends and school holidays. While a visit to Barry and the city
centre will cost just £11 in the week and £7.50 on weekends and school holidays. And
with the ticket covering one or two adults and up to four 5-18 year olds (a maximum of
5 people per ticket),
no-one needs to get
left out in the cold!
So, with Cardiff
Bus making it even
easier to travel,
you’ll never be at
ho ho home! To
find out more visit
cardiffbus.com
Cardiff Radyr Maths and
English study centre
Welcome to Cardiff’s newest Kumon centre located in the heart of Radyr at the
Methodist Church Hall. My centre officially opens on the 21st November and both
enrolments and classes will commence from that date. As an instructor I have recently
benefited from Kumon’s newly revised instructor training programme which has
incorporated ideas from the many Kumon
centres all over the world. My centre offers
both Maths and English subjects and I look
forward to welcoming children and parents
to the centre.
Robyn Dow
Tel: 029 2236 2639
E-mail: cardiffradyr@kumoncentre.co.uk
Website:
http://www.kumon.co.uk/Cardiff-Radyr
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/
KumonRadyr
34
Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/cardiff

Kumon’s maths and
English study programmes
work to build your child’s
confidence and inspire
a passion for learning.
To unlock your child’s potential,
contact your local Instructor
for a free assessment.
Cardiff Radyr Study Centre
Robyn Dow 02922 362639
New
centre
now
open
Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.
kumon.co.uk
Cardiff West 02920 628 568
Unit 3 Hollybush Estate
Coryton, Cardiff
CF14 7DS
www.kipmcgrath.co.uk/cardiffwest
www.primarytimes.net/cardiff | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 35

THE DEFIBRILLATOR APPEAL FOR WALES
helping us place defibrillators across Wales
DONATE TODAY www.welshhearts.org/keepwalesticking
For more information on
Keep Wales Ticking contact us at
savinglives@welshhearts.org
029 2240 2670 . welshhearts.org
Follow us
WelshHearts
Registered Charity Number 1154109
FUN AND CREATIVE COMPUTER
SCIENCE WITH BAREFOOT
Computer science doesn’t always
have to be mathematical, or
scientific. It can be taught in fun,
engaging and cross-curricular
ways. All children are now
growing up in a digital world –
learning and exploring it is so
important to their futures.
Teachers who have accessed Barefoot
resources are more confident than their
peers too, with 84 per cent understanding
computational thinking, compared with
57 per cent overall.
Working in partnership with the Welsh
Government, BT, and Computing at
School, all the resources are aligned to the
Welsh national curriculum and the Digital
Competency Framework, including engaging
activities for SEN pupils.
So far, Barefoot has reached more than
1.25 million children, but there are
many more to reach.
How can you get involved?
If you’re a primary teacher, register for free
resources and lesson plans or book a free
workshop for your school by visiting
www.barefootcas.org.uk, or become a
Barefoot volunteer.
Go to our YouTube ‘Barefoot Computing
Project’ and watch our ‘Barefoot Bytes’
videos, which run through a selection of
our lesson plans.
What people say about us:
“Technology is essential for children’s
learning and Barefoot was a fun,
non-threatening way to bring it in”
Paula Merry - Primary Teacher,
Ysgol Estyn Hope C P School, Hope, Wales
Find out more: www.barefootcas.org.uk
@BarefootComp /Barefootcomputing www.barefootcas.org.uk
36
Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/cardiff

Cardiff Steiner School
learning to love learning
!
!!
Thinking about School options?...
Rethink what’s possible for your child
(029) 2056 7986
www.cardiffsteiner.org.uk
Hawthorn Rd West, Llandaff North, Cardiff CF14 2FL
Visit
Mornings
8 Dec &
17 Jan
Come and find out about our inspiring, joyful & creative education
for age 3 to 18. Our international curriculum integrates arts & academics
into a rich, balanced www.cardiffsteiner.org.uk
education, that ignites a passion for
learning. * Our NEW Upper School * for age 14 -18 offers a groundbreaking,
exam-free education for future careers university & life.
! !! ! ! ! Independent, !
non-selective school for girls & boys age 3 to 18
Charity No. 701294
Outstanding School for
Girls and Boys ages 3-18
Take your next step
at the Cathedral School
Entrance Testing for Year 7 Entry 2018
Saturday 20th January 2018
Examination results amongst the best in the UK
“Excellent”- Estyn Inspection
Please contact the Registrar for further details
Sixth Form Seniors Primary Nursery
explorelearning.co.uk
EducationInvestor
Awards 2016
029 2083 8504
registrar@cathedral-school.co.uk
www.cathedral-school.co.uk
www.primarytimes.net/cardiff | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 37

38
Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/cardiff

A YW HI’N AMSER GWNEUD CAIS AM LE MEWN YSGOL AR
GYFER MIS MEDI 2018?
TIME TO APPLY FOR A SEPTEMBER 2018
SCHOOL PLACE?
Os yw eich plentyn yn troi’n 5 neu’n 12
yn y flwyddyn ysgol nesaf, yna ‘Ydy’
yw’r ateb
If your child turns 5 or 12
next school year, then the
answer is ‘Yes’
Gwnewch gais ar-lein ac ewch i www.caerdydd.gov.uk/derbyniysgolion i gael mwy o wybodaeth
Apply online and find out more at www.cardiff.gov.uk/schooladmissions
DYDDIAD CAU AR GYFER CEISIADAU:
CLOSING DATES FOR APPLICATIONS:
YSGOLION UWCHRADD
DYDD LLUN 4 RHAGFYR 2017
SECONDARY SCHOOLS
MONDAY 4 DECEMBER 2017
YSGOLION CYNRADD
DYDD LLUN 8 IONAWR 2018
PRIMARY SCHOOLS
MONDAY 8 JANUARY 2018
Do you miss
being a nurse?
Our 15 week ‘Return to Practice
programme’ will enable you to return to
the nursing career you once loved.
Ydych chi’n hiraethu
am fod yn nyrs?
Bydd ein rhaglen Dychwelyd i Ymarfer
15 wythnos yn eich galluogi i ailafael yn yr
yrfa nyrsio oedd mor agos at eich calon.
‘I chose this time to return to
practice because my youngest
son is beginning full time
education.’ – Sarah Gray
Apply now
for April
2018
‘Fe wnes i ddewis ailddechrau
ymarfer nawr gan fod fy mab ar
fin dechrau addysg amser
llawn. ’– Sarah Gray
Gwnewch gais
nawr ar gyfer
mis Ebrill 2018
Open days/
Diwrnodau agored:
Cardiff/ Caerdydd: returntopractice_cardiff.eventbrite.co.uk
Newport/ Casnewydd: returntopractice_newport.eventbrite.co.uk
029 2068 7538
www.cardiff.ac.uk/healthcare-sciences
www.primarytimes.net/cardiff | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 39

SIX NATIONS 2018
WALES v ITALY
SUNDAY 11 MARCH 2018
U16 TICKETS £20
TICKETS ON SALE
FRIDAY 8 DECEMBER 2017 10:00