PTNotts_Winter17_lo

61,000 copies for families of
Primary School Children
in and around
Nottinghamshire
Nottingham Playhouse Theatre Company presents
Kenneth Alan Taylor’s
Fri 1 Dec 2017 -
Sat 20 Jan 2018
Panto Media Partner
BOX OFFICE 0115 941 9419
NOTTINGHAMPLAYHOUSE.CO.UK
WINTER ISSUE No 102
27 NOV 17 – 4 FEB 18

Dear Readers
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 so many fantastic festive events and activities for the
whole family in our What’s On Guide, some of them 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. You’ll find all of the places
you can see Santa before Christmas Day in the What’s On Guide -
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 competitions on page 22. You could
win tickets to see Beauty and The Beast at the Theatre Royal or
Cinderella at the Nottingham Playhouse. There’s also a chance
to win a free term at Mantis Kickboxing and an ice skating
party at Lammas Ice Rink!
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, let us know if there’s something exciting happening
at your school, you can email us at sam@schoolspublishing.co.uk
Primary Times Team
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
/nottinghamshire
www.facebook.com/
primarytimesnottinghamshire
4 News and Views
6 WOW
12 Christmas Crackers
18 Box Office
21 Pinboard
22 Competitions
...the UK’s biggest, free ‘what’s on’ magazine for parents!
Publisher: Marion McAdam marion@schoolspublishing.co.uk
Assistant Editor: Sam Shepherd sam@schoolspublishing.co.uk
Production: Sue Douglas ptproduction@schoolspublishing.co.uk
Sales: Tina Mayberry ptnotts@schoolspublishing.co.uk TEL: 01491 411848
Design: Charlotte Morgan
Primary Times Nottinghamshire, Schools Publishing Limited, Primary Times Magazine Group
Unit 1A, Thamesview Industrial Estate, Newtown Road, Henley on Thames, Oxfordshire RG9 1HG
TEL: 01491 411848 FAX: 01491 411416 www.primarytimes.net/nottinghamshire
Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through national primary schools in Nottinghamshire. 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 Nottinghamshire 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
www.primarytimes.net/nottinghamshire | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 3

news & views
nottinghamshirenews
Do you have news to celebrate? We’d love to hear! Email sam@schoolspublishing.co.uk
www.primarytimes.net/nottinghamshire
Teachers UK donate £5000 to
help Football in the Community
keepsie-upsie the good work!
Mansfield Town’s Football in the Community has received a cheque for
£5000 from local recruitment company Teachers UK.
“We continue to support Football in the Community because of the
valuable role they play in our local area. They are an inspiration and are
able to offer hundreds of children a variety of opportunities.” said Louise
Hamby of the Mansfield I-Centre based company.
Teachers UK have announced they will also continue to sponsor an
Autumn, Spring and Summer Mascot competition for children nominated
by their schools and will sponsor this year’s Primary School’s John Radford
Cup. The company also provide signed shirts and hospitality days and this
year will sponsor the Mansfield Town Football in the Community Primary
School Football kit.
Beeston Fields Primary & Nursery
School donate their Harvest
Festival collection to charity
Children and families of Beeston
Fields Primary & Nursery School
have pulled out all the stops in
collecting food for their Harvest
Festival, all of which is being
donated to Hope House Charity.
Teacher Laura Clarke said the
children and their families were a
credit to the school. “Everyone has
taken part in the collection for such
a worthy cause. All of the children,
and our School Ambassadors
who have helped to organise the
collection, have given a lot of
thought to the items donated and
to thinking of others in need. They
have done a wonderful job and we
are so proud of their efforts.”
Pupil Simone Yartey age 9 said
that it is important to think about
giving to others, “We brought
in lots of items for Hope House
Charity and now they will give the
food to people who are in need. I
believe we should all try to donate
because we have enough food,
and we even waste it sometimes,
not thinking about those who
don’t have any all.”
Sue Hillier, Volunteer Manager
at Hope House
Nottingham said she
was delighted with the
children’s efforts, “We
have a food bank which
is open four days a week
where people in need,
in financial crisis, can come
for a food parcel. Each
parcel contains four days’
worth of food and all of
this that the children have
collected will become a
part of that supply.
Pirates invade St Peter’s Cross Keys
C of E Academy in Farndon.
St Peter’s Cross Keys Church of England Academy in Farndon found itself
invaded by swashbuckling Pirates for the day!
Teacher Joanne Hoult said that the day was organised and planned by
children in Year 2 Blithe Class who had been making a special study of
Pirates. She said, “The day started off
with ships rollcall where the children
used proper pirate sounds! The
children also enjoyed pirate themed
games such as sleeping pirates,
‘Captain says’ (Simon says), counting
pirate doubloons and musical pirate
statues.” The day was completed
with Pirate Cake which the year 2
children had made and decorated.
The event was a great way to bring
learning to life.
On Friday 13 October 2017, Springbank Primary School
celebrated the opening of its new Phiz Lab, which has
been funded by The Ogden Trust, and is the first of its kind
in Nottingham.
Springbank Primary
School’s new Phiz Lab
is a dedicated space
where teachers can
involve students with
a range of science
experiments to
enhance their interest
in the subject.
Local Activity wins Prestigious Children’s Award
For the 4TH consecutive year La Jolie Ronde Languages for Children has been
crowned Best National Licensed Activity for 5-12 year olds in the prestigious
children’s awards “What’s On 4 Kids Awards 2017”.
Earlier in the year the Award Programme asked parents and children across
the UK to nominate their favourite after-school and weekend activities. Every
activity had the chance to be nominated and voted for, making the Awards
a true representation of how parents & children feel towards what is on offer
and their eagerness to reward the very best.
The Awards that are now into their 11th year were held at a Finalists Award
Ceremony at NatWest, in the heart of the City of London, at the prestigious
280 Bishopsgate location.
La Jolie Ronde beat 4 other children’s activities, 3 of which were language
learning activities; Lingotot, Kidslingo, Spanish Amigos and singing & drama
activity Little Voices.
Mrs Vaudeville who runs French/Spanish classes for 5-12 year olds in
Hillingdon area said “We are absolutely
delighted to win this Award for the
4th year running. This category is
always a tough one as there are so
many fantastic and extremely popular
activities on offer for our children
today. Our win demonstrates once
again how popular our classes are and
it makes it even more special as it’s the
parents and children who have voted
for us.”
4
Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/nottinghamshire

Bilsthorpe Academy
Children at Bilsthorpe Flying High Academy have been taking part in a new
drive to increase their love of reading with the help of their families.
The scheme sees parents coming into school to spend time reading with
children, using the school’s extensive library. Acting Headteacher Anne Ingle
said she hopes it will encourage a lifelong love of reading in the children, and
to encourage families to read together more at home. “If we can instil a love of
reading in our pupils, then those literacy skills will inform all of the work they
do in school. We are hoping that more and more families will take the time to
read with their children at home, and for those families who are already doing
that, to utilise our library to enrich their choices.”
Pupil Milla Bickerton attended the event with her parents. “I am reading a
book with my parents today, it’s called Patrick and the Fox. I like it when my
parents come into school, it’s nice to get together and read a book.” Mum,
Mrs Bickerton said she thinks it’s a great scheme. “I love reading and we are a
reading family. It is so important for developing their imagination, language
and spelling. We are joining in with this because we always try to support
anything she does in school.”
Milla says that she thinks reading can help her in all of her lessons. “I think
reading helps you to know the world and the way it is. It also gets your brain
power stronger!”
Christmas card
Competition
Winners!
Every year Primary Times asks
children to create the picture
for our Christmas Card. This
year we received a sack full
of wonderful entries and we
would like to thank you all 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
Holly Zheng, aged 6
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: Sahaib Parvez, aged 10 from
Cambuslang, Glasgow and Florence Holt, aged 6 from Radley Primary
School, Abingdon.
Everyone who entered was a winner.
Sahaib Parvez, aged 10 Florence Holt, aged 6
Pupils from Haddon Primary School sing
for Uganda school children
Pupils from Haddon Primary School have performed in a concert for their
families to continue their fundraising efforts for fellow pupils in Uganda.
Intrepid Head Teacher, Nina Capek, said the fundraising began after she
visited The Little Angels Orphanage and School in Uganda during the summer
break. ‘Little Angels’ is for orphaned children from around the Lake Bunyoni area
in Uganda.
Nina said she was sure that the children and families of her Carlton school
would want to support and share experiences with the Ugandan school
children. “So as soon as I returned I shared photos and discussed what could be
done with the rest of the school staff. I spoke to the teachers at the school and
asked about the possibility of setting up a link between our children and theirs,
and that is what we have done!”
Pupil Sienna Staniforth is 6 years old, but already has a strong understanding
of the differences between the schools. “We are singing for our mums and dads
to help the school in Uganda. We have been writing letters to the pupils there,
telling them about ourselves. They need our help because they don’t have any
clean water, paper or pencils.”
The concert raised £121.79 was
raised and further fundraising
events are planned. Head Teacher
Nina said, “this project really
brings to life our School DREAM
values of determination, respect,
enjoyment, achievement and
making Memories. If we can raise
enough we are hoping to sponsor
a child through the school, and
stay informed on their progress.”
People interested in finding out more about Little Angels can follow the link:
www.littleangelsuganda.org/the-project.php
Children at St Peter’s Church of England Academy made
their own poppies
to observe
Remembrance
Day. Pupil Oscar
Shephard age 7
years, says that he
understands why
we wear poppies
at this time of year,
“Eleven o’clock
is the time that the war ended and we wear poppies to
remember the people who died in the wars”.
Bilsthorpe’s Oakwood Fuels Ltd donate
110 safety vests to local school children
Oakwood Fuels Ltd have donated 110 high visibility vests to their local
school, Bilsthorpe Flying High Academy.
Acting Head Teacher Anne Ingle said the vests are crucial equipment
for the school. “We are so grateful to Oakwood Fuels Ltd for the donation,
the company is a great supporter of our wonderful school. The vests are
required to help us to keep children safe on outings and donations of this
kind mean that school funds can be directed towards learning resources
instead. All of the staff and children want to say a big thank you to
Oakwood for once again stepping in to help us.”
Gareth Lowry, Commercial Manager at Oakwood Fuels Ltd says his
company maintains strong ties with the school. “We heard that the
school required high visibility jackets so that when they take the
children out on excursions children will be visible and safe. They needed
a cross section of sizes to suit the different age ranges and we were
pleased to provide 110 of them.
“We are a very large employer
within the village and we felt it was
the right thing to do. Many of our own
employees have children at the school
and we would like to think that in years
to come some of the children here will
come and work for Oakwood too!”
NEWS & VIEWS

what's on where
If you are looking for more inspiration, there
are many more events events on our website
www.primarytimes.net/nottinghamshire
Until 31 Dec
Trent Bridge Cricket Ground Tour
Trent Bridge NG2 6AG
www.trentbridge.co.uk
Every Tuesday at 2pm (except match
days). Visitors to Trent Bridge can
now get a guided tour of the
world’s third oldest Test ground.
The tour, which costs just £4
for adults and £2 for juniors, is
an opportunity to find out about
the history of the ground, from
its humble beginnings as a plot of land
connected to the Trent Bridge Inn to the
building of the modern state-of-the-art
facilities of the Radcliffe Road Stand. The
90-minute tour also takes in a visit to the
Long Room, Pavilion and the Library. To
book T: 0115 982 3000.
6 Mar – 31 Dec
Gruffalo Spotters Trail
Sherwood Pines Forest Park NG21 9JL
www.forestry.gov.uk/gruffalo
It is aimed at younger children, but the
whole family can enjoy following
clues and collecting evidence.
Download the app before
you visit and point it at
the markers to bring the
characters to life! You can find
the start of the trail in front of
the play area (behind the café)
and it is about 2km in length.
The trail is free of charge, but parking
charges apply.
1 Jul - 31 Dec
Nottingham Castle Cave Tours
Nottingham NG1 6EL
www.nottinghamcastle.org.uk
Taking place everyday when the castle is
open at 12pm, 1pm, 2pm & 3pm. Take a
tour to experience the caves for yourself,
learning on the way the gruesome tales
of Roger Mortimer, King David II of
Scotland or you may be able to take a tour
with Robin Hood himself... Tours last for
approximately 30-40 minutes. Costs £5
per person plus normal Castle entry fee!
9 Sep - 9 Jun
Harley Art Club
Harley Gallery S80 3LW
www.harleygallery.co.uk
For children aged 6-11. The Art Club will
encourage your children to look, draw
and discover- developing making skills
and an understanding of art and craft.
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.
Children will spend Saturday morning with
Harley Education & Engagement Manager
Dayle, having fun and getting messy in
these hands-on monthly Saturday sessions.
See website for dates. Booking
essential.
17 Nov - 31 Dec
Nottingham Winter
Wonderland
Old Market Square
NG1 2BY
www.nottinghamwinterwonderland.co.uk
Immerse yourself in the glow of the
Christmas lights and trees, visit the cabins
selling seasonal food, drink and crafts
when the Winter Wonderland returns
to Nottingham this November. More
information to follow on website.
18 Nov -23 Dec
Santa’s Grotto at Rufford Abbey
Rufford Abbey Coutry Park NG22 9DF
www.english-heritage.org.uk
Weekends between Saturday 18 November
- Sunday 23 December 2017 from
11am-4pm. Bring the little
ones to meet Santa and his
helpers and every child will
receive a gift. £5 per child.
Santa’s Grotto & Winter
Wonderland
Timmermans Garden Centre
NG14 6DN
www.timmermansgardencentre.com
Various dates during November and
December for Santa’s grotto and breakfast
with Santa. See website for full details.
18 Nov - 24 Dec
Santa’s Grotto at Brookfields
Brookfields Garden Centre NG3 5RW
www.brookfieldsgardencentre.co.uk
Various dates. See website for full details.
Our team of elves will be greeting you in
the Grotto to make your visit to see Santa
more magical. Mrs Claus may make an
appearance too!
24 Nov - 24 Dec
Santa’s Toy Testing Lab
intu Victoria Centre NG1 3NE
www.ntu.co.uk/victoriacentre
Various dates throughout November
and December. Step into our magical Toy
Testing Lab and help Santa’s elves choose
the top presents for all the boys and girls
this year. Work your way through the lab
to qualify as an official toy tester and then
get to work playing with all the best toys
available from your favourite stores. Once
you’ve reported back to the elves don’t
forget to then take your official toy testing
reports down to Santa’s Grotto at intu
Broadmarsh. Entry £3. T: 0115 912 1111.
Santa’s Grotto at Intu Broadmarsh
Broadmarsh Shopping Centre NG1 7LB
www.intu.co.uk/broadmarsh
Santa Claus is coming to intu Broadmarsh
this Christmas! Visit his magical grotto in
association with Playmobil from Friday
24 November through to Christmas Eve.
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by our
elves, you’ll notice that they’ve brought
the snow with them all the way from
Lapland! £4.95 per child. Adults go free.
Please note that a £1.50 booking fee will
apply when booking online. If you have
any problems when booking your ticket
please call 0131 513 9411.
25 Nov - 23 Dec
Audience with Father
Christmas
Bolsover Castle S44 6PR
www.english-heritage.org.
uk/visit/places/bolsovercastle
Saturdays and Sundays.
Join in the festive fun with the
man himself at Bolsover Castle this
Christmas. Meet Father Christmas as
he tells tales of Christmas past amidst
the yuletide decorations. Lucky visitors
will even get a festive treat from him!
Additional charge of £4 applies to see
Father Christmas for all children aged 0+
(subject to availability). Small present
included. This cost is included in the
Child prices listed. Father Christmas slots
through the day are 10.30, 11.30, 12.30,
14.00 & 15.00. Booking is essential. T:
01246 822844.
Christmas at Wollaton Hall
Wollaton Hall NG8 2AE
www.wollatonhall.org.uk
Enjoy a family Christmas at Wollaton Hall
this year. With a decadent gift shop in the
courtyard, a chance to see Santa in the
grotto and a Christmas trail, there’s plenty
to get the whole family in the festive
spirit. Plus, on the first three weekends in
December, dress up in your most festive
outfit and celebrate with the spooks on a
creepy Christmas tour.
Christmas at White Post Farm
White Post Farm NG22 8HL
www.whitepostfarm.co.uk
You can see Santa and join in the Nativity
Play every day from the 25th November
right up to and including Christmas Eve.
You can meet our beautiful real reindeer
and head through the winter wonderland
maze leading right up to Santa’s Grotto.
The Christmas Barn is full of games,
Christmas crafts to take home, a giant
Christmas tree and magical indoor snow
falling from the sky. Saturdays and
Sundays will also feature our brand new
Elf Academy - with Elf Anthony and Elf
George teaching you the essential skills
you need to make it in the North Pole. Still
lots to be announced too so keep an eye
on the website and our facebook page for
more exciting news!
Rudolph The Red Nosed
Reindeer was originally
going to be called Reginald
and have a blue nose.
26 Nov - 24 Dec
Meet Santa at GCRN
Great Central Railway NG11 6JS
www.gcrn.co.uk
Weekends only. Join us for a steam-train
trip through beautiful Nottinghamshire
countryside with Santa! Always popular
with Children, this is the best chance for
them to tell Santa what they would like
for Christmas! Children receive a quality
gift during their journey and everyone will
receive seasonal refreshments. Booking is
essential so do not delay as our Santa trains
are popular and do get booked in advance.
See website for booking form.
28 Nov
Eastwood Christmas Lights Swith On
Eastwood NG16 3BT
www.eastwood-town-council.org.uk
Christmas is officially launched in Eastwood
town at the annual Christmas Lights Switch.
6:30pm the Christmas lights switch on
ceremony will take place and the finale
fireworks display will be at 8pm.
29 Nov
Sneinton Market
Christmas Lights Switchon
2017
Sneinton Market NG1 1DB
www.facebook.com/groups/
stchristophersneinton/
Head to Sneinton Market for their
annual Christmas Lights Switch On.
1 Dec
Kirkby Christmas Festival
Kirkby Plaza NG17
www.ashfield.gov.uk
4-8pm. Family fun activities. Chrstimas
market, synthetic ice rink, live
entertainment. Meet Elsa and Batman!
Countdown to light switch on around 7pm.
Childrens Christmas Craft Club
Kirkby-in-Ashfield Library NG17 7BQ
www.inspireculture.org.uk
Join us for Christmas crafts each Friday in
December. Suitable for ages 2-12, free, no
need to book. See website for full details.
1 – 22 Dec
Hunt the Christmas Hats
Skegby and Stanton Hill Library NG17 3EE
www.inspireculture.org.uk
Come and hunt for our hidden Christmas
hats! Count them up and enter our
competition for the chance to win an extra
Christmas present! During normal library
opening hours.
Christmas Competition - Borrow 6
Books!
Skegby and Stanton Hill Library NG17 3EE
www.inspireculture.org.uk
Borrow 6 books between the 1st December
and 22nd of December and be entered into a
competition to win a prize. There’s a prize for
both adults and children - The more you read
the more chance of winning! During normal
library opening hours.
Santa’s Grotto at Stonebridge City
Farm
Stonebridge City Farm NG3 2FR
www.stonebridgecityfarm.com
Come and see Santa at Stonebridge City
Farm! North pole magic launches on 1st
December 10.30am - 12pm. Open 2nd
December - 22nd December 11am - 1pm
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Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/nottinghamshire

www.primarytimes.net/nottinghamshire | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 7

what's on where
1 – 23 Dec
Christmas at Clumber Park
Clumber Park S80 3BE
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Various dates - see website. Step into a
winter wonderland at Clumber Park this
Christmas, with the park it its glittering and
decorative best. Sit back, relax and let the joy
of Christmas time begin. Fall down the rabbit
hole this Christmas, with our Lewis Carroll
inspired ‘Clumberland’ theme, and we have
a wide range of events and activities for you
and the whole family to enjoy.
2 Dec
A Victorian Christmas
Archbishop’s Palace NG25 0HD
www.southwellminster.org
11am-4pm. With the essence of Victorian
tradition, a day of craft activities, trails and
games, music and Christmas treats to make
and eat. All welcome. Free entry. No need to
book! Email: education@southwellminster.
org.uk or T: 01636 817993.
West Bridgford Christmas Lights
Switch On 2017
West Bridgford
www.rushcliffe.gov.uk
This year’s event will be a jam packed day
of festive fun for the whole family on both
Central Avenue and Gordon Square, featuring
entertainment from local singers and
bands, a children’s fairground, street theatre
entertainers, santa’s grotto and a free mini
ice rink.
Beeston Christmas Lights Switch On
2017
Beeston Square NG9 2RX
www.broxtowe.gov.uk
3.30pm - 6.30pm. Celebrate the countdown
to Christmas, at the light switch on in
Beeston! Lights switch on ceremony at 5pm.
Fireworks at 6.30pm.
Wild Kids at Attenborough
Attenborough Nature Reserve NG9 6DY
www.attenboroughnaturecentre.co.uk
10.15am to 12.15pm - Wild Kids at
Attenborough - Woodland Workshop. For
children aged 4 years and over. £6 per child.
No need to book. Pay on the day at Reception.
A Victorian Christmas
Southwell Minster NG25 0HD
www.southwellminster.org
11am-4pm. With the essence of Victorian
tradition, a day of craft activities, trails and
games, music and Christmas treats to make
and eat. All welcome, free entry, no need to
book! T: 01636 817993
Erewash Little Kickers Fun Football
Session
Long Eaton NG10 4AL
www.broxtowe.gov.uk
Fun football sessions for 4 years plus
at West Park,Long Eaton on Saturday
afternoon 1.30pm till 2.30pm, £2 per child
per week. For more informaiton email
joanneharris2009@hotmail.co.uk
T: 07990569153
Sutton Christmas Festival
Portland Square NG7 4HR
www.ashfield.gov.uk
4-8pm. Family fun activities. Chrstimas
market, synthetic ice rink, live entertainment.
Meet Elsa and Captain America! Countdown
to light switch on around 7pm.
2 – 3 Dec
Christmas at the Workhouse
Southwell NG25 0PT
www.southwellminster.org
A special Christmas at The Workhouse this
year celebrates highlights from the past year
as well as traditional seasonal favourites for
visitors to enjoy. Children can explore the
building while having a go at completing the
Twelve Days of Christmas trail. Children’s crafts
will be on offer too.
2 – 16 Dec
Breakfast with Santa
Rufford Abbey Coutry Park NG22 9DF
www.english-heritage.org.uk
Date in December 2,9 & 16 - 08.30-10.00am.
What a brilliant treat for the kids this Christmas
2017, breakfast with Father Christmas himself!
Children must be accompanied by at least 1
paying adult. Every Child will receive a special
present from Santa. £10.00 per person. See
website for booking details.
2 - 17 Dec
Christmas at Newstead: Craft & Gift
Market
Newstead Abbey NG15 8NA
www.newsteadabbey.org.uk
At weekends only. Craft and Gift Market –
11am – 4pm. House – 12noon -4pm (last
entry into House 3pm). With foliage cut from
the gardens, twinkling lights, baubles and
Christmas trees the Abbey is transformed for
Christmas. See Newstead in all its splendour
at this magical time of the year. Our Resident
singer Johnny Victory will be serenading you
in the Great Drawing Room. Visit the craft
and gift market in the Cloisters to pick up
some unique gifts and treat yourself to some
seasonal fayre in the Cafe. Visit Santa to pass
on your Christmas wishes (additional charge).
£10.00 per person, under 16s free. Includes
car parking.
A Classic Crags Christmas
Cresswell Crags S80 3LH
www.creswell-crags.org.uk
Weekends in December. Come and join in
the Classic Creswell Crags Christmas and see
Santa in his Ice Age Grotto. Create your own
wrapping paper and other Christmas crafts
to take home witht the help of Santa’s Elves!
There will be roasted chestnuts over the
fire pit and live choirs and brass bands each
weekend!
2 - 23 Dec
Santa’s Grotto in the Courtyard
Newstead Abbey NG15 8NA
www.newsteadabbey.org.uk
At weekends only 11.00am – 2.30pm. Let
Santa know your Christmas wishes at our
special Grotto in the Courtyard and collect
your present. Pre-booked slots only through
Gigantic Tickets - £5.50 per child, includes
booking fee.
Christmas at the Castle
Nottingham Castle NG1 6EL
www.nottinghamcastle.org.uk
Weekends in December. Celebrate the festive
season at Nottingham Castle. Pick up a vintage
gift in the museum shop or a traditional
decoration in the gatehouse’s Christmas shop.
Explore the Castle’s grounds, museum and art
galleries while following the Christmas trail
and leave a wish on the Christmas tree. Make
a paperchain or write a letter to Santa… or
make a reservation to see the man himself in
the bastion.
2 Dec - 2 Jan
Christmas Trail
Rufford Abbey Coutry Park NG22 9DF
www.english-heritage.org.uk
Come and help save Christmas as we know
it and receive a chocolate treat if you
manage to find everything. Eric the elf has
been very busy this year making sure that
all of the presents, candy canes, snowmen
and cute little robins are ready for the
start of Christmas. However, after one
busy week of walking from the South to
the North Pole Eric lost some very special
items and he needs your help in finding
them! £1 per child (collect trail sheets from
visitors reception).
3 Dec
Sherwood Forest Tree Dressing &
Christmas Lights Switch On
Sherwood Forest Country Park NG21 9HN
www.sherwoodforest.org.uk
11.30am - 1pm and 2pm - 4pm. A
seasonal highlight in Sherwood’s
Christmas calendar. Join in the ancient
custom of Tree Dressing, and where better
to celebrate the wonder of trees than in
one of England’s most famous forests.
Come along and drop in on any of the
sessions to make a decoration to hang on
our chosen tree in the Visitor Centre. The
Visitor Centre lights switch on will take
place at 4.15pm, once the tree has been
dressed with all the decorations. No need
to book. FREE.
Portland College Christmas Market
Portland College NG18 4TJ
www.portland.ac.uk
A festive day out for all the family. Santa’s
grotto and lots more. Admission £3 per car.
6 Dec
Hucknall Christmas Festival
Hucknall Town Centre NG15 7BZ
www.ashfield.gov.uk
4-8pm. Family fun activities. Chrstimas
market, synthetic ice rink, live
entertainment. Meet Elsa and Spiderman!
Countdown to light switch on around 7pm.
9 Dec
Party in the Park with Santa
Robin Hood’s Wheelgate Park NG22 8HX
www.wheelgatepark.com
This is a pre-book only event. Join Santa,
Mrs Claus and their Dancing Elves for
a special Santa Supper and dancing at
Wheelgate Parks’ Christmas Experience
this December to add that extra special
magic for your families Christmas. Join
Santa and his elves for a yummy evening
with heaps of fun and a special gift to
take home! PLUS entry to Wheelgate Park
(family theme park daytime). T: 1664
567777.
Christmas Craft Fair
Newark Library NG24 1UW
www.inspireculture.org.uk
A range of crafts and gifts, ideal for the
start of the Christmas season. Suitable for
adults and children. Free admission. No
need to book.
Make a Christmas Card
Warsop Library NG20 0AB
www.inspireculture.org.uk
Join us at Warsop library and make Santa
cards to send to someone special. Suitable
for ages 4 and over. Free. No need to book.
9 - 10 Dec
Winter Steaming and Christmas Fair at
Papplewick
Papplewick Pumping Station NG15 9AJ
www.papplewickpumpingstation.co.uk
Papplewick Pumping Station will be in steam
and hosting their Christmas Fair which will
feature a variety of stalls selling items items
perfect for Christmas gifts (more stalls are
welcome!). There will also be performances by
the Worksop Handbell ringers on Saturday and
the Lace City Chorus on Sunday. Plus there will
be Santa’s grotto and the legendary Rocket
Dogs hot dog stand with its 1950s Airstream
Caravan! There will be regular tours to the
underground reservoir starting from 11.30am.
Admission is £8 adults, £6 seniors/students, all
Children (0-16) go FREE! Admission includes
access to the Christmas Fair.
10 Dec
Christmas in Coming
Albert Hall NG1 5AA
www.alberthallnottingham.co.uk
A traditional afternoon Christmas concert for
all the family, with well-known carols and
seasonal songs. Featuring: East of England
Singers, Nottingham Community Voices,
Vocals Youth Choir & New Classical Players.
Tickets from £8.00 (concessions available)
T: 0115 958 9312 to book.
Newark Christmas Market and Winter
Feast
Market Place, Newark NG24 1DU
www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk
Get into the festive mood with over 100
stalls offering Christmas crafts and gifts and
hot seasonal food. There will be brass bands
and carol singing, festive Morris dancing
displays and traditional Christmas folk plays,
fairground rides, a Civil War re-enactment
display, street musicians and bands as well as,
of course, Santa and his sleigh, nicely covered
with a sprinkling of snow from the Town Hall
balcony.
Breakfast with Santa
Canalside Heritage Centre NG9 1LZ
www.broxtowe.gov.uk
Also on 16 & 17 December. Join Santa at the
Canalside Heritage Centre for a delicious full
English breakfast. Tickets £8 for children,
including small gift, £6 for grown ups. Pre
booking essential and please let us know
at time of booking if you have any dietary
requirements, all people (children & carers
and no unaccompanied children) 9am –
10am.
16 Dec
Christmas Carols In The Mill Yard
Green’s Windmill NG2 4QB
www.greensmill.org.uk
3pm - 5pm. It’s time to get merry again with
our legendary Christmas Carol event - this
year featuring the Salvation Army Band. A
Yuletide treat for all the family, complete
with a lantern-lit mill yard, mince pies and
mulled wine of course! For all ages but wrap
up warm! FREE.
Wild Kids at Skylarks
Skylarks Nature Reserve
www.nottinghamshirewildlife.org/naturereserves/skylarks/
10.30am to 12.30pm - Wild Kids at Skylarks -
Join us as we explore the nature reserve and
make some natural Christmas decorations. For
children aged 4 years and above. £6 per child.
Book via the website.
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www.primarytimes.net/nottinghamshire | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 9

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CHRISTMAS CRACKERS
A Beautiful tale makes for a Beast of a panto!
From the producers of 2016’s sensational production of Jack
and the Beanstalk and 2015’s magical fairy-tale Cinderella
comes Beauty and the Beast, an enchanting pantomime
bursting with brilliant costumes, bewitching music, sidesplitting
slapstick and bags of audience participation.
We’ve gasped at the gargantuan Giant, now marvel at the
unbelievable Beast!
Join us to discover if Beauty and her friends, the ‘glamorous’
Dame Dorothy Do-It B.U.M (Buster of Unsightly Mess) and
her wilfully witless son, Willy Do-It, can outwit the arrogant
bully Eugene and his odious sidekick, Pimple. Be whisked
away on Dorothy’s turbocharged hoover and engage in a race
against time filled with fun, adventure and laughter!
With spectacular scenery, incredible special effects and
loads of festive fun, Beauty and the Beast is a delight for all
to enjoy. Don’t miss out on the chance to make your family’s
Christmas with a trip to the Palace Theatre Newark!
Beauty and the Beast runs from Friday 8 December 2017
until Wednesday 3 January 2018.
To book tickets call The Palace box office on
01636 655 755 or visit www.palacenewark.com
Christmas
Southwell
Visit the Archbishop’s Palace for a Victorian
Christmas on Saturday 2 December 11am-4pm. Craft
activities, trails & games, Christmas treats to make
and eat plus music and seasonal refreshments. Lots
of fun for families and children. All welcome! Free
event: donations welcome.
www.southwellminster.org
Brookfields
‘Christmas Shopping’ is our theme this year and we have 6
wonderful colour stories put together offering you the widest
selection of Baubles, lighting and gifts; truly magical.
Our Grotto, at the very heart of our Christmas activities,
is designed to be a special place with beautiful scenes and
opportunities to make some memories. Each child spends
time talking to Santa, Mrs Claus sometimes pops in for
a chat and there are always Elves to help keep everyone
entertained. A sweet treat, special visitors badge and then
a gift tag on which their wish for Christmas can be written
and hung on our Gift tree is given by Santa to every child.
Charge of £1 per child applies.
Breakfast with Santa is another of our well loved
activities. A breakfast box, story time with the Elves and
then a sing along with Santa is just a great way to start the
day , but do check on availability as we sell the tickets really
quickly.
Brookfields is a must visit destination at Christmas, as
a team we throw ourselves into setting up with enormous
enthusiasm and pride ourselves on making Christmas
Shopping an essential part of your Christmas experience.
Hope we see you soon!
www.brookfieldsgardencentre.co.uk
Everyone Active
The opportunities are endless at Lammas Leisure Centre
With the return of ‘Dancing on Ice’ to our television screens, why
not try out your moves on the ice, at Lammas Leisure Centre?
Home to Ashfield’s only ice skating rink, Lammas Leisure
Centre offers an extensive range of ice skating sessions throughout
the week, to suit all ages and abilities. Including ‘Fun Skate’
sessions where you can try out your ice skating skills with family
and friends.
For anyone who is looking to improve their skating talents they
can join the learn to skate programme - suitable for all ages and
abilities and led by Everyone Active’s qualified coaches.
Or try out the Polar Club sessions for parents and toddlers,
which include toys, games and penguin skating aids, to give
youngsters their first opportunity to try out ice skating.
Local figure skating stars, Callum Mills and Meg McFarlane
train on the ice at Lammas Leisure Centre up to five times a week.
Meg, who has Down’s syndrome, has been training at the centre
since 2010 and has won six medals at the Special Olympics,
including three golds.
For more information and a full timetable of activities
please call 01623 511177 or visit;
www.everyoneactive.com/centre/lammas-leisure-centre/
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Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/nottinghamshire

Crackers
Winter events set to sparkle at Bolsover Castle
As the nights draw in and everything starts to get a bit frosty,
something magical is happening over at Bolsover Castle near
Chesterfield in Derbyshire. The historic property will be open each
weekend throughout winter and is turning its attention towards the
festive season for a series of events which will delight children and
adults alike.
Returning for the second year, English Heritage’s popular
Audience with Father Christmas events will be an enchanting
yuletide experience for children to enjoy, taking place every
Saturday and Sunday from 25 November through to 23 December
in the stunning Star Chamber.
Visitors will also be able to join in with the Christmas
celebrations at the castle at an evening Carol Concert on Tuesday
19 December At 6.30pm. Booking for both events is essential. For
more details visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/Bolsover or
call 0370 333 1183 to buy tickets.
CHRISTMAS CRACKERS
White Post Farm
Every day from 25 November you can see Santa and join in the
Nativity Play every day right up to and including Christmas Eve. You
can meet our beautiful real reindeer and head through the winter
wonderland maze leading right up to Santa’s Grotto. The Christmas
Barn is full of games, Christmas crafts to take home, a giant
Christmas tree and magical indoor snow falling from the sky.
Saturdays and Sundays will also feature
our brand new Elf Academy - with Elf
Anthony and Elf George teaching you the
essential skills you need to make it in the
North Pole. Keep an eye on the website
and our Facebook page for more exciting
news!
www.whitepostfarm.co.uk
www.facebook.com/WhitePostFarm1/
NOTTINGHAM PLAYHOUSE SET FOR
A MAGICAL FESTIVE SEASON
Renowned as a ‘Midlands institution’, the Nottingham Playhouse
panto is returning this festive season with firm family-favourite
Cinderella. As well as the classic fairy-tale, Town Mouse and
Country Mouse is set to take the Neville Studio stage to entertain
little ones, with kind-hearted messages aimed at children aged
three and over.
Written and directed by Kenneth Alan Taylor, Cinderella
will be running from Friday 1 December through to Saturday
20 January. The
magical story is set
to delight audiences
of all ages with its
sumptuous costumes
and magnificent
scenery, as well as a
coachload of hilarity,
slapstick, song and
dance!
Town Mouse and
Country Mouse,
adapted by Robin
Kingsland, will
be running from
Wednesday 13
December through
to Saturday 6 January. Jammed full of music, fun and plenty of
chances to join in, the tale will teach children about the importance
of kindness, sharing and politeness.
Cinderella tickets cost from £23 with family tickets starting at
£100. Groups of ten or more can save up to 20% on selected
performance dates.
Tickets for Town Mouse and Country Mouse start at £11.50,
with family tickets from £31.50 for three people or £42 for four.
www.nottinghamplayhouse.co.uk
National
Space Centre
Join us for a very
special pre-
Christmas Small
Space day, including
a visit from a very
jolly chap on route
from the North Pole! Our friends at NORAD are getting
ready to track Santa as he heads off, delivering gifts to all the
children around the world. He will be making a scheduled stop
at the National Space Centre for a special Small Space day for
all our youngest astronauts.
www.spacecentre.co.uk
Timmermans Garden Centre
The team at Timmermans Garden Centre in Woodborough, winner of
UK Garden Centre of the Year 2016, have gone all-out to make this
year’s grotto even more magical to delight & amaze all ages. Opening
on November 18th, with Santa arriving at 11am, walk through Santa’s
Winter Wonderland to discover new and familiar characters in a
fantastical festive world which culminates at Santa’s woodland home.
The hugely popular Breakfast with Santa will be held in the garden
centre’s award winning restaurant Belle & Joe’s Kitchen as well as
Afternoon Tea with Carol Singers & Santa, which are events sure to
get the whole family into the Christmas spirit.
With a stunning range of unusual decorations, lights and gifts,
Timmermans are aiming, once again, to be the county’s destination
garden centre this Christmas. Santa’s Winter Wonderland will be
open every day up to 31st December with Santa in residence every
weekend up to Christmas Eve plus Thursdays & Fridays during
December and everyday 14th - 24th December. See Timmermans’
facebook page or website for more details, grotto opening times,
view a walk-through video of the grotto plus booking details for
Breakfast with Santa.
www.primarytimes.net/nottinghamshire | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 13

Make a Seasonal Calendar
Warsop Library NG20 0AB
www.inspireculture.org.uk
We’ll be making a seasonal calendar to help
you plan your activities for 2018. Suitable for
ages 4-11. Free. No need to book.
16 Dec - 17 Dec
Santa Punch & Judy
Rufford Abbey Coutry Park NG22 9DF
www.english-heritage.org.uk
A special outdoor Christmas theme Punch
& Judy show with ever popular children’s
entertainer Paul Temple. A little close up
magic and balloon modelling adds to the
fun. The event takes place in the Stables
Courtyard. Free show (normal car parking
charges apply).
16 - 24 Dec
Brunch with Santa
National Ice Centre NG1 1LA
www.national-ice-centre.com
For the first time ever, you can have Brunch
with Santa at the National Ice Centre! Face
painters will also be on hand to turn little
ones into princesses, elves and reindeer!
Brunch with Santa will be available on 16,
17, 23 and 24 December priced at £12.50
for adults and £15 per child, and
is available to book now via
groups@national-ice-centre.
com or via 0115 853 3137.
Please note the Brunch with
Santa experience cannot be
purchased on the day and will
need to be pre-booked.
17 Dec
Christmas in the Arboretum
Nottingham Arboretum NG7 4HF
www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk
Get in the festive spirit at the annual
Christmas event at the Arboretum where
the trees will be lit up and festive music
will be performed in the bandstand. There
will be children’s activities and mince pies
and non alcoholic mulled wine will be
served by the Friends Group (first come, first
served). Please use entrance on the corner of
Arboretum Street and Waverley Street. FREE.
Sunday Lunch With Santa at Beeston
Fields
Beston Fields NG9 3DA
www.beestonfields.co.uk
Santa Claus is coming to Beeston Fields for
another magical year! Meet Santa, tell him
your wish and receive a special gift either
before or after enjoying a mouth-watering
carvery. Under 5 - £10.95. 5 - 12 - £15.95.
Adults - £25.95. Booking and non-refundable
deposit required: £10 per adult and £5 per
child. Prices include a three course carvery
and a present. Call 0115 9257062 to book a
table for any of the Christmas carveries
19 Dec
Carol Concert at Bolsover Castle
Bolsover Castle S44 6PR
www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/
bolsover-castle
Join in the Christmas celebrations at Bolsover
Castle with carols sung by Voices – The
City of Derby Girls Choir in the stunning
surroundings of the Riding School. A glass
of wine or soft drink is included in the ticket
price. Prices: Adults £15.00. Concessions
£15.00. Children £15.00. EH Members:
Adults £10.00. Concessions £10.00. Children
£10.00.
Scientists calculate Santa
visits 822 homes a second
to deliver all the world’s
presents on Christmas Eve,
travelling at 650 miles a
second. He’s very quick.
22 Dec
Festive Fireworks at Gullivers
Kingdom!
Gullivers Kingdom DE4 3PG
www.gulliversfun.co.uk
Light up your Christmas with our Festive
Fireworks Night! Come to Gulliver’s for this
very special event. Enjoy a brilliant family
day out on park exploring the huge selection
of rides and attractions. They’ll have
some magical Christmas shows running
throughout the day. To really celebrate the
festive season join Gully and the Gang for
one their biggest events of the year.
23 Dec
Christmas Foam Parties
National Ice Centre NG1 1LA
www.national-ice-centre.com
Our Christmas Family Foam Party is great
foamy fun for all the family. 2.30pm – 5pm.
Price: £10. T: 0843 373 3000.
Christmas Kidsophonic in Space
Albert Hall Nottingham NG1 5AA
www.alberthallnottingham.co.uk
From 10.30am. Join Conductor and Compere
Alistair Parnell in the annual Kidsophonic
concerts. Why Not dress up as your
favourite space character? Tickets
- £8 adults / £5 children (under
2’s free!) from Windblowers
on 0115 9410543.
23 Dec - 7 Jan
Covert Christmas: Family
Activities at the National
Civil War Centre
National Civil War Centre NG24 1JY
www.nationalcivilwarcentre.com
Oliver Cromwell has cancelled Christmas
but one man is determined to party on
come what may. His name is Walter. Can
you catch him in the act? Join us this
Christmas and play Walter Where Art
Thou? There may be prizes (but don’t tell
Cromwell). FREE with standard admission.
Come back to all our free events with our
12-month Annual Pass!
24 Dec
Christmas Eve Walk
Sherwood Forest Country Park NG21 9HN
www.sherwoodforest.org.uk
11am-12.30pm. Escape the hustle and
bustle of high street shopping and the last
minute Christmas rush, and enjoy a gentle
stroll with a ranger through the ancient
glades of Sherwood, looking for winter
wildlife and discovering more about this
legendary forest. Price: £3 / £1.50 children.
No need to book.
13 Jan
Viking Activy Days: Home Life
Lakeside Arts NG7 2RD
www.lakesidearts.org.uk
Free event. Join Einar and Thorkatla of
Blueaxe Reproductions to learn about
different aspects of Viking life. Take part
in a wide variety of activities including
handicrafts, reading and inscribing Viking
runes, games and tell your own saga.
Handling sessions will also give you the
opportunity to handle replica Viking
artefacts like those on display in our
exhibitions. See what the artefacts would
have looked like when new and then find
them in the exhibitions to see what they
look like after 1,000 years buried in the
ground. Suitable for all.
The Primary Times Team would
like to thank all of our readers and
advertisers for their continued
support and to wish you all a very
Merry
Christmas &
Happy New
Year
WHAT’S ON WHERE
www.primarytimes.net/nottinghamshire | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 15

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Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/nottinghamshire

Holiday
Camps for
3–11 year
olds
Cricket Fun & Games
For more info...
Daytime, Weekend & After-School
sessions run weekly during
Term-Time all year for boys &
girls aged 2½ to 7
Separate sessions for Pre-Schoolers
Holiday Camps for 3–11 year olds

BOX OFFICE
BoxOffice
Your family theatre guide...
0231512
0231513
TICKET
TICKET
Bonnington Theatre, NG5 7EE
Box Office: 0115 901 3640
www.boningtontheatre.co.uk
16-17 Dec
The Three Musketeers
Cry ‘All for one and one for all,’ this winter as we
join D’Artagnan and his friends Porthos, Athos and
Aramis, in their quest against the scheming Cardinal
Richelieu. A rip roaring, fast paced, swashbuckling
show ideal for families (ages 5+).
23 Dec
Elf (PG)
One of the most recent additions to the “Christmas
Classic” canon, Elf sees Will Ferrell at his childlike
best, playing Buddy the Elf.
27 Dec-4 Jan
Justice League (12A)
Fuelled by his restored faith in humanity and inspired
by Superman’s selfless act, Bruce Wayne enlists
newfound ally Diana Prince to face an even greater
threat.
0231513
TICKET
Lakeside Arts, NG7 2RD
Box Office: 0115 846 7777
www.lakesidearts.org.uk
9-31 Dec
Black Beauty
From the cosy horsebox they call home, the McCuddy
brothers take the bit firmly between their teeth and
play out scenes from the classic tale of Black Beauty.
Tickets from £8.50. Suitable for ages 6+. 90 minutes
including interval. No performances on Mondays or 25
& 26 December.
9 Dec
How to Train Your Dragon (PG)
Hiccup is a Norse teenager from the island of Berk,
where fighting dragons is a way of life. His progressive
views and weird sense of humour make him a misfit,
despite the fact that his father is chief of the clan.
Mansfield Palace Theatre,
NG18 1NG
Box Office: 01623 633133
www.mansfieldpalace.co.uk
2 Dec-7 Jan
Jack & The Beanstalk
Panto casting is far from a casualty as 3D magic comes
to Mansfield! Take a pinch of fairy-tale and add a splash
of song and dance; stir in some comedy and garnish with
magic. The result is a delicious show that has families
flocking back in their thousands each Christmas!
Mansfield Central Library,
NG18 1NG
Box Office: 01623 633133
www.mansfieldpalace.co.uk
9 Dec
Twelve Birds of Christmas
Venue: Mansfield Central Library - HandMade Theatre
presents The Twelve Birds of Christmas - a unique festive
family show. Enrol in Hatchling College and join our
three eggcentric bird professors as we count down The
Twelve Birds of Christmas.
Newark Palace Theatre,
NG23 5QX
Box Office: 01636 655755
www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk/palacetheatre
8 Dec-3 Jan
Beauty & The Beast
A Beauty of a Panto...A Beast of a Show! Come and join
us for a beauty of a pantomime this festive season.
Once again the show will have all the ingredients for a
perfect family panto with spectacular set and costumes,
fabulous songs and dances, bags of slapstick fun.
Nottingham Arts Theatre,
NG1 3BE
Box Office: 0115 947 6096
www.nottingham-theatre.co.uk
2-17 Dec
Jack & The Beanstalk
Join the award winning People’s Theatre Company,
Nottingham, and see the magical fairytale Jack and the
Beanstalk brought to life. PLEASE NOTE: The matinee
times differ depending on the day & there are NO
Tuesday evening performances this year.
Nottingham Playhouse,
NG1 5AF
Box Office: 0115 941 9419
www.nottinghamplayhouse.co.uk
1 Dec-20 Jan
Cinderella
A dashing prince is hosting a ball and Cinderella would
give anything to go, but her stepmother and sisters
have other plans. Can Cinderella escape their clutches
and, with the help of her Fairy Godmother and best
friend Buttons, find true love? Ticket prices may be
subject to change. Family tickets from £100 for a
maximum of 4 people per household, with a maximum
of 2 adults.
18
Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/nottinghamshire

BOX OFFICE
BoxOffice
13 Dec-6 Jan
Town Mouse and Country Mouse
Town Mouse loves the rush and the buzz of the city.
Country Mouse prefers the wide open fields and sweet,
fresh air of the countryside. They’re so different it looks
like they will never get along. And with a cat arriving
on the scene, can they resolve their differences before
it is too late? Age recommendation: 3 – 8 year olds and
their grown ups.
20 Dec
Town Mouse and Country Mouse:
Relaxed Performance
also showing on 30 December. Town Mouse loves the
rush and the buzz of the city. Country Mouse prefers the
wide open fields and sweet, fresh air of the countryside.
They’re so different it looks like they will never get
along. And with a cat arriving on the scene, can they
resolve their differences before it is too late? Age
recommendation: 3 – 8 year olds and their grown ups.
We are happy to answer any questions you may have
regarding familiarisation visits, wheelchair access and
disabled parking, all you need to do is email access@
nottinghamplayhouse.co.uk
10 Jan
Cinderella: ‘Pay what you can’
Performance
Live entertainment doesn’t have to cost a fortune. See
world-class theatre for the price you can afford with our
Pay What You Can performances. Join us for Cinderella
on Wednesday 10 January 2018 at 7:30pm and pay…
whatever you can. See website for details on how to
purchase tickets.
17 Jan
Cinderella: Relaxed Performance
A dashing prince is hosting a ball and Cinderella would
give anything to go, but her stepmother and sisters have
other plans. Can Cinderella escape their clutches and,
with the help of her Fairy Godmother and best friend
Buttons, find true love? We offer performances that
are more relaxed for all those who benefit from a show
where loud noises are reduced, elements of surprise are
kept to a minimum and moving around the auditorium
is not a problem.
25 Jan
Sing-a-long-a Beauty & the Beast
Sing-a-Long-a Productions invite you to “be our guest”
at Sing-a-Long-a Beauty and the Beast. Join us as we
celebrate the brand new adaptation of Disney’s iconic
fairy tale with on-screen lyrics so everyone can join in!
27 Jan
Morgan & West: More Magic for Kids
Time-travelling magicians Morgan & West return to the
stage with a marvellous magic show full of crazy capers
for the young, old, and everyone in-between! Expect
the unexpected, believe the unbelievable, but do not
dare miss the unmissable Morgan & West!
Robin Hood Theatre, NG23 5RB
Box Office: 07733 179986
www.rhtc.co.uk
12-16 Dec
A Christmas Carol
Miserly old humbug Ebenezer Scrooge has no time for
Christmas until one chilly December night he is visited by
the ghost of his old business partner, Jacob Marley. This
will be a heart-warming experience for all the family.
Savoy Cinema, NG7 1QN
Box Office: 0115 947 5812
www.savoyonline.co.uk
9-10 Dec
The Polar Express (U)
The Polar Express revolves around Billy who longs to
believe in Santa Claus but finds it quite difficult to do so,
what with his family’s dogged insistence that all of it,
from the North Pole, to the elves, to the man himself, is
all just a myth. This all changes, however, on Christmas
Eve, when a mysterious train visits Billy in the middle of
the night, promising to take him and a group of other
lucky children to the North Pole for a visit with Santa.
16-17 Dec
Home Alone (PG)
Screenings also on 23 & 24 December. Home Alone
is the highly successful and beloved family comedy
about a young boy named Kevin who is accidentally
left behind when his family takes off for a vacation in
France over the holiday season.
24 Nov
The Star (U)
Bo, a small but brave donkey yearns for a life beyond
his daily grind at the village mill. Finding the courage
to break free he goes on the adventure of his dreams.
With friends he meets along the way they follow
the Star and become unlikely heroes in the greatest
story ever told - the first Christmas. Release date: 24
November.
16 Dec
Ferdinand (TBC)
Ferdinand tells the story of a giant bull with a big
heart. After being mistaken for a dangerous beast,
he is captured and torn from his home. Determined
to return to his family, he rallies a misfit team on the
ultimate adventure. Release date: 16 December.
19 Jan
Coco (TBC)
Despite his family’s generations-old ban on music,
Miguel dreams of becoming a musician. Desperate to
prove his talent, Miguel finds himself in the Land of
the Dead. Along the way, he meets charming trickster
Hector and together, they set off on an extraordinary
journey. Release date: 19 January 2018.
Theatre Royal, NG1 5ND
Box Office: 0115 989 5555
www.trch.co.uk
9 Dec-14 Jan
Beauty & The Beast
Don’t miss this year’s spellbinding family pantomime
Beauty and the Beast. Dreaming of a happier life, the
beautiful Belle finds herself transported to a spellbound
castle held captive by a hideous beast.
30 Nov-2 Dec
Dear Santa
Santa is determined to deliver the most
fantastic Christmas present to our little hero
Sarah. But he doesn’t get it right straight
away! With the help of his cheeky Elf, he finally
settles on something ‘perfect’, just in time for
Christmas Eve.
4 Dec
An Inspired Christmas
Venue: Royal Concert Hall. Join us for a seasonal
concert as Inspire – Culture, Learning and
Libraries, celebrates a fantastic year.
12 Dec
Christmas in the City
Venue: Royal Concert Hall. Start the festive
season with a beautiful Christmas concert.
With performances by Nottingham city pupils,
Robin Hood Youth Orchestra, Area Bands, Band
Factory and more, it’s the perfect occasion to
gather family and friends and support the city’s
young musicians.
20 Dec
Nottingham Harmonic Choir
Family Carol Concert
Venue: Royal Concert Hall. Performance also on
23 December 2017 5pm. Nottingham Harmonic
Choir and the Thoresby Colliery Band. With
Christmas only days away, bring the whole
family and add some sparkle to your festive
season by joining us for a concert of the very
best of Christmas music.
18-21 Jan
What the Ladybird Heard
Two crafty robbers, one tiny ladybird, and a
whole farmyard of fun! Hefty Hugh and Lanky
Len have 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! Recommended for ages
3+. Show running time: 55 minutes.
WIN 1 OF 6 FAMILY TICKETS!
see a movie of your choice at Savoy Cinema
(two adults and two children or one adult and three children)
The Star (U) Bo, a small but brave donkey yearns for a life beyond his
daily grind at the village mill. Finding the courage to break free he goes on
the adventure of his dreams. With friends he meets along the way they
follow the Star and become unlikely heroes in the greatest story ever told
- the first Christmas. Release date: 24 November.
Ferdinand (tbc) Ferdinand tells the story of a giant bull with a big
heart. After being mistaken for a dangerous beast, he is captured and torn
from his home. Determined to return to his family, he rallies a misfit team
on the ultimate adventure. Release date: 16 December.
Coco (tbc) Despite his family’s generations-old ban on music, Miguel
dreams of becoming a musician. Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel
finds himself in the Land of the Dead. Along the way, he meets charming
trickster Hector and together, they set off on an extraordinary journey.
Release date: 19 January 2018.
For your chance to win just answer this question:
What animal is Ferdinand?
Enter online at www.primarytimes.net/nottinghamshire.
Closing date: 13 December 2017
20
Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/nottinghamshire

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
PERFORM WITH CONFIDENCE. FREE TASTER
SESSIONS ON OFFER!
Ready, set, bounce! Christmas fun at
RedKangaroo trampoline park, Nottingham
Bounce your way into the festive season with RedKangaroo;
Nottingham’s awesome new state-of-the-art trampoline park!
A mammoth £1.8 million refurbishment has completely transformed
a former factory into a jaw-dropping, hopping-haven! At over
38,000 square feet, it’s equivalent in size to 13 tennis courts.
As well as loads of super-bouncy, super-sized, interconnecting
trampolines, RedKangaroo also offers more air-bound activities than
any other UK park…
Like a challenge? You’ll love our awesome ‘Wipeout’ style game;
duck and dive over a central ‘sweeping arm’ whilst trying not to
topple off your podium! Plus budding ninjas can attack Ninjas
will And for bouncers who love a
challenge, try our demanding ninja
assault courses!
Other facilities include a gigantic
foam pit with gladiator beam,
dedicated parkour area, huge half
pipe, 21 metre-long tumble track,
angled trampolines, double cardio
wall, vertical wall running, ‘Power
Tower’ slide, slam dunk areas and
dodgeball courts. Wow! PLUS free WIFI, Café Roo, awesome Party
Packages and much more!
PINBOARD
Mansfield Palace Youth Theatre offer drama classes
from 5 years upwards, with Juniors and Inters classes
every Saturday in term time. The groups perform
shows annually in May and June.
Whether a total beginner looking to enjoy some easy-going-air-time,
or a budding free-runner, RedKangaroo has the perfect session for
everyone. Prices from £8.
Advance online booking is essential: www.redkangaroo.co.uk
It is a great opportunity for your child to come and
meet new friends, build skills such as communication
and confidence and have a lot fun every week.
We offer very competitive prices! For further information and to
set up a FREE TASTER, contact Lisa Hopkinson, Youth Theatre
Administrator, Tel: 01623 412927 or
Email: lhopkinson@mansfield.gov.uk
COME AND JOIN IN THE FUN AT
MANSFIELD PALACE YOUTH THEATRE!
KICK-START THE NEW YEAR WITH
MANTIS KICKBOXING!
Mantis Kickboxing are excited to
announce the launch of a new familyfriendly
class, on Saturday mornings,
starting in January.
Designed for parents and kids to train
together, the class is suitable for everyone
aged 7+ - from complete beginners to the
experienced - and is a great way to spend
quality time together.
Mantis Kickboxing also hold weekly
kids’ after school classes and adult-only
sessions - all led by qualified Black Belt
instructors, at George Spencer Academy.
For more details call Sensei Sarah:
07806 689118 or visit www.
mantiskickboxing.co.uk
QUOTE PTXMAS17 FOR 2 FREE
TRIAL CLASSES!
RedKangaroo, Unit 2 Dabell Avenue, Blenheim Industrial Estate,
Nottingham, NG6 8WA
Stagecoach Performing Arts
Stagecoach Performing Arts
in Long Eaton (formerly
Stagecoach Beeston), Mansfield
and Nottingham offer classes
in singing, dancing and acting
during the school term for
children aged four to 18.
Performance at Stagecoach
is about more than simply
learning how to sing, dance
and act. Students develop the
creative courage to unlock their
potential, to stand up and be
heard, to work well with other
students and to embrace new
ideas and possibilities.
As they hone their new
skills and work together to devise and
rehearse performances, students become more self-assured,
expressive, sociable and imaginative. All skills that will serve them
well on the stage of life and help them to tackle new situations with
resilience, creativity and courage.
Eva Johnson, 12, and her brother Sam, 10, are now Stagecoach
regulars after initially attending a two week trial a couple of years
ago. Their mum, Katie Johnson, said: “My children absolutely loved
it. They came home after the first day and were full of chatter about
the friends they’d made and the fun they’d had.” She added: “They
learn so much more than singing, dancing and drama. My son is
naturally quite shy and I’ve seen his confidence levels soar, whereas
my daughter is outgoing and has been able to channel her energy
into performing.”
To find out more about your local Stagecoach School visit
www.stagecoach.co.uk
www.primarytimes.net/nottinghamshire | WINTER 2017 Primary Times 21

competitions
win!To enter
these competitions please go to...
www.primarytimes.net/nottinghamshire/competitions
or via Facebook at www.facebook.com/primarytimesnottingham
Please like us on facebook
WIN! a free term* at
Mantis Kickboxing!
WIN! Win a family ticket to see
Beauty and the Beast at the
Theatre Royal Nottingham
The Theatre Royal Nottingham’s sensational family pantomime, Beauty and the
Beast, will star Sherrie Hewson, Ben Richards, Ben Nickless, and Andrew Ryan, in an
all-new spectacular production packed full of sensational special effects, beautiful
costumes, music, comedy, dancing, and audience participation; it’s going to be
spellbinding. Catch it at the Theatre Royal from 9 December to 14 January. Find out
more at TRCH.CO.UK/BEAUTY-THE-BEAST
WIN a family ticket for 4* to see Beauty and the Beast on Tuesday 12 December at
7.15pm.
For your chance to win, tell us who is starring as Mrs Potty in this year’s panto.
Closing date: 6 December
* max 2 adults
Mantis Kickboxing are excited to announce the launch
of a new family-friendly class, on Saturday mornings,
starting in January.
Designed for parents and kids to train together, the class
is suitable for everyone aged 7+ - from complete
beginners to the experienced - and is a great way
to spend quality time together.
To celebrate the launch, Primary Times have a
free term* to give away!
For your chance to win, just answer this question:
Where are Mantis Kickboxing classes held?
(visit www.mantiskickboxing.co.uk to find out!)
Closing date: 15 December
*Free term is for one adult OR one child,
when accompanied by another member of
their family, attending the new Saturday
family-friendly classes, starting in January
2018. For more information on the classes
visit www.mantiskickboxing.co.uk
WIN! AN ICE SKATING PARTY AT
LAMMAS ICE RINK - WORTH £150
An ice skating party is huge fun for kids (and adults!) of all ages. At Lammas Ice Rink
parties include exclusive use of the ice rink for you and up to 90 guests, free skate
hire, a resident DJ, snow, snowmen, penguins and use of the party room for post
skating refreshments.
Primary Times has teamed up with Everyone Active to offer one lucky
winner the chance to win an ice skating party. To enter, visit
www.everyoneactive.com/iceskateparty and supply your contact details
as requested.
Closing Date: 31/12/2017. 18+ only. Prize includes one-hour exclusive use of the ice
rink, 30 minutes use of the party room, free skate hire and resident DJ. A valid email
address will be required to enter.
WIN! a family ticket for Cinderella at
Nottingham Playhouse and say you
went to the ball!
A dashing prince is hosting a ball and Cinderella would give anything to go, but her
stepmother and sisters have other plans. Can Cinderella escape their clutches and,
with the help of her Fairy Godmother and best friend Buttons, find true love?
Question: What did Cinderella lose when running away from the ball at
midnight?
Closing date: 22 December
Competition ticket date: Friday 5 January 2018 7:30PM
T&Cs: Tickets are non-refundable, cannot be exchanged or replace an existing booking. Tickets must not
be resold All information is correct at point of sale.
In the event of unforeseen circumstances, it may be
necessary to change a customer’s seat allocation. We
will inform the customer at the earliest opportunity
Please collect from Box Office at least one hour prior
to performance
22
Primary Times WINTER 2017 | www.primarytimes.net/nottinghamshire

Where do ghosts go for a
Christmas Treat?
The Phantomime
(Molly, age 11)
How do monkeys
make toast?
The put some bread
under the gorilla
(Annabel, aged 8)
Why can’t a bicycle
stand up?
Because it’s so tired
(Ehsan)
What is a dog’s
favourite carol?
Bark, the herald
angels sing.
(Francis, aged 9)
Send jokes to:
Primary Times
Nottinghamshire
Schools Publishing Limited
Unit 1A Thamesview
Industrial Estate, Newtown
Road, Henley on Thames
RG9 1HG