primary times newcastle october issue

75,000 copies for Parents, School Staff & Children

Newcastle 15th Oct - 25th Nov 2012

Issue 58

Unbeatable Coverage in the North East www.primarytimes.net

There is plenty to see and do atCragside this Autumn.See 0 for more details or visitwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/cragside.

Seven Stories is the first museum in the UK whollydedicated to the art of children’s books. The Seven

Stories Bookshop offers the best in children’sliterature and gifts. Entry to Seven Stories Bookshop

is free, so pop in and say hello or visitwww.sevenstories.org.uk/shop.

Seven Stories, Ouseburn Valley, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 2PQ. Tel: 0845 271 0777

www.sevenstories.org.ukSeven Stories is supported by Arts Council England and

Newcastle City Council. Registered charity number 1056812

Picture BooksGoldilocks and Just The One BearLeigh Hodkinson Nosy Crow £6.99 Once upon a time the three bearsfound Goldilocks in their house but nowshe has a house of her own… Enjoy thefunny tale of how a now grown upGoldilocks handles coming home tofind a bear in her house, eating herporridge!

Callum's Incredible Construction KitJonathan EmmettEgmont Children’s Books 6.99For Callum's birthday he gets the bestpresent ever - a construction kit! This sparksCallum's imagination as he creates somewonderful things that get bigger and bigger,but can his house take the weight?

Confident ReadersWolfieBy Emma BarnesStrident Publication £6.999781905537273When Lucie's uncle Joe brings her a presentshe can't believe nobody notices it's amagical wolf. At first she is nervous about hernew pet but as they get to know each other,Lucie realises that her friend is in terribledanger and needs her help. Wonderful storywith lovely illustrations throughout.

Advanced Readers The Witch of Turlingham AcademyEllie BoswellAtom £5.99 Sophie's life at Turlingham Academy is prettygood, that is until new girl Katy arrives. Katy isa Witch hunter and believes that Sophie'sbest friend is the Witch she is seeking. Sophievows to prove Katy has the wrong girl, butwhat will happen when they discover whothe real witch is?

Operation BunnySally GardnerOrion £9.99 One day Emily vole falls off a ladder, little does sherealise that it will change her life, and start her on anadventure. Along the way she encounters, a talkingcat, lots of coloured bunnies any many moremagical things.

Primary Times Newcastle 2

3Primary Times Newcastle

Primary Times is independently published and distributed free to 75,000 school children at 289First, Primary and Middle Schools throughout Newcastle, Gateshead, North Tyneside, SouthTyneside & Northumberland.

Its aims are to inform families and children of current educational issues, forthcoming events,courses and attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate inthe magazine by adding to its contents or joining in competitions which we run.

Primary Times would like to thank all schools for their assistance in distributing the magazine andfor their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers. Copyright©Primary Times North East.

Contents

Publishing Editor & Advertising: Jan Stewart Tel: 0191 264 5909 Email: [email protected]. 1 Denehead Cottages, Hexham Road, Walbottle, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE15 9RX. Artwork: Spark Creative Design Ltd Tel: 01429 872291

Hi Everyone!Welcome to our Autumn issue. As this is the time of year forspooky shenanigans and ghostly goings on – you’ll find massesof Halloween events for you to get chilled and shivery at! We’vealso got loads of fun things to do during half term, and eventhough the days are getting shorter, it doesn’t mean that familytime can’t still be enjoyed to the max! Just remember to wrapup warm, and stay safe by ‘Being Seen’.

This issue covers events until the end of November, when it isreplaced by our Christmas and New Year issue. So get planningyour time and be sure to take advantage of all our money savingoffers and our free to enter competitions.

Jan & The Crew at Primary Times.

Page 4 NE1 Helps You Get Set for Christmas.

Page 5 Prepare to be scared this Halloween at Beamish.

Page 7 Juice - NewcastleGateshead’s award-winning Festival for Children.

Page 8 Bees Diaries.

Page 9 Durham University invites you to Celebrate Science 2012.

Page 10 Autumn at Cragside.

Page 13 Ghosts, Ghouls & Roman Drills this October Half Term.

Page 14/21 Your 8 Page Guide to What’s On this Autumn.

Page 22/23 Theatre Guide & Competitions.

Scan the QR Code now todownload Primary Times to yourphone and then save it to yourhomepage to receive futureupdates and vouchers!

You can now download for FREE to your phone!Read it on the move!Catch up on WHAT’S ON near you!Have the latest vouchers to hand on your phone!


This half term get one step ahead ofthe game by starting your Christmasshopping early and get the kidsinvolved in helping to select presentsfor family and friends. With the cityAlive after Five you can come in laterand enjoy free parking after 5pm in allNewcastle City Council owned multi-storey car parks for a stress free triparound town.

With numerous Alive after Five offersin city-centre restaurants you cancombine your early bird Christmasshopping with a bite to eat, or a trip tothe theatre. Try to score tickets forthe Lionel Bart’s classic, Oliver at theTheatre Royal, or, venture to the MillVolvo Tyne Theatre over the lastweekend of the holidays for anAbbaMania night on Saturday 2nd

November, or a night of Elvis onSunday 3rd November.

During half term, the museums, artgalleries and city library have lined upa whole host of activities to keep yourlittle cherubs entertained. The Citylibrary have adopted a spookyHalloween theme with storytellingactivities across the week and withthe welcome return of the JuiceFestival from 29th October – 2ndNovember, there’s so much going onin the city for children of all ages.Dance City is a key venue for the Juicefestival with a series of workshopsduring the week.

Once half term is over the countdownto Christmas begins in earnest with allthe usual Christmas activities to be

enjoyed in the city. Skating at Lifereturns on 10th November andChristmas wouldn’t be Christmaswithout the continental markets atGrey’s Monument.

By the end of November we will be infull Panto Season with Aladdin at the

Theatre Royal and Robin Hood andthe Babes in the Wood at the MillVolvo Tyne Theatre. With thispacked programme of events in thecity it will be the Christmas holidaysbefore you know it.

NE1 Ltd helps you get set forChristmas with Alive after Five.

For further information visit www.getintonewcastle.co.uk.

Dance City Holiday Children’s Workshops.Skating@Life.


On Friday 26th, Saturday27th, and Wednesday31st October 2012between 6.30 and9.30pm, BeamishMuseum will be overrunby spooky ghosts andterrifying monsters!

Halloween evenings at Beamish, now

in their fourth year, are sure to give

you a Halloween fright night you’ll

never forget. With The Town, Pit

Village and Pockerley Waggonway

swamped with petrifying creatures,

only the brave will dare to knock on

the doors to trick or treat..... Imagine

the fun of skating on the real outdoor

ice rink*, dressed as a witch, wizard or

werewolf !

So prepare for the fright of your life

this Halloween at Beamish, The

Un-Living Museum of the North!

Tickets are £10 for adults and £7 for

children aged 3-16 and are available

online at www.beamish.org.uk or by

calling 0191 370 4000 (Mon to Fri,

9am to 4pm). Under 16s must be

accompanied by an adult, under 3s

admitted free.

Prepare to be scared thisHalloween at Beamish.

(* Small extra charge for ice skating. Beamish Unlimited Passes not valid forevening events.)

Santa Specials - Theperfect Festive Treatfor the whole Family.


Santa is returning to StephensonRailway Museum this December,and the whole family is invited tojoin him for a magical adventureaboard the Santa Specials train.

Take an unforgettable journey byvintage steam train beforeheading back to the museum formince pies and a hot drink.

Tickets are £10 per person andinclude a gift for all children overthe age of 12 months. Train rideswill take place at 10.30am,11.45am, 1.15pm and 2.30pm everySaturday and Sunday from 1st to23rd December 2012.

Early booking is strongly advised to avoid disappointment.For full terms and conditions and to book a ticket, visitwww.stephensonrailwaymuseum.org.uk.For all enquiries, please call (0191) 277 2165.


Juice – NewcastleGateshead’s

award-winning festival for children

and young people returns for a fifth

year this autumn half term, bringing

with it a packed programme of

creative events for families and young

people.

Taking place from Friday 26th

October to Sunday 4th November,

Juice Festival promises 10 days of

activities and entertainment

especially for children, young people

and their families. Expect art, dance,

theatre and story-telling alongside all

the excitement of Halloween with

events including Spooky Night at the

Museum and Happy Halloween

Pumpkin Carving.

This year’s festival-goers will also be

treated to a variety of dragon-themed

events, inspired by a new exhibition

taking place at Seven Stories, the

national centre for children’s books,

based on the popular series ‘How to

Train Your Dragon’ by children’s

author Cressida Cowell.

Highlights include: Dragon Steps, a

do-it-yourself theatre puzzle which

invites children aged 5-10 to join the

search for missing dragons running

loose across NewcastleGateshead;

Little Universe in Saltwell Park,

Gateshead, a brand new

performance for 3-5 year olds

created especially for the outdoors

and Imagined Planets, an interactive

family concert at The Sage

Gateshead for 4 – 7 year olds.

On the final day of the festival, Sunday

4th November, families are invited to

attend the Festival Finale

Dragons Parade.

Join Juice Festival

at Baltic Square

(outside BALTIC

Centre for

Contemporary

Art) to search for

the festival

dragons and lead

them back to their

family who are

waiting for them

on the River Tyne.

Fancy dress is a must for the Juice

Festival Dragon Parade, which also

features live music from young

musicians from The Sage Gateshead.

Juice – NewcastleGateshead’saward-winning festival forchildren and young people.

Friday 26th October – Sunday 4th November.


Spooktacular Halloween Fun atGibside All Half Term.

This is Bonnie here, Queen Bee of The Alnwick Garden.Now is an exciting time of year in the garden because allthe fruits and vegetables are ready to harvest – they arenow as big and ripe as they can get and are ready to bepicked.

As part of our Roots and Shoots Project here at TheAlnwick Garden, lucky schoolchildren grow lots of lovelyfruit and vegetables in the Roots and Shoots Garden withthe help of some very clever gardeners. During the lastcouple of weeks, those children have visited us to dig uptheir fruits and vegetables and have made them into tasty,healthy meals!

If you have been growing vegetables at home, your carrots,onions and parsnips will soon be ready for you to pick andeat too! Vegetables are good for you, but they are alsogreat for us – many vegetables supply us with pollen, whichwe use to feed our young bees. This means that if you startto grow fruits and vegetables, you’ll be making us healthiertoo!

Now is still a good time to plant other flowering plants forbees. Plants such as asters and sedums look beautiful in theautumn and we love them because they provide us withnectar even during the chilly autumn months. Plantingthese flowers now also gives time for the roots to settle inwhile the soil is still warm – this means that they have ahead start when it comes to the spring.

Thank you for helping us, don’t forget to talk to your ownbees if you see them in the garden!

Bonnie.

For full information, please visit The AlnwickGarden website: www.alnwickgarden.com.

Hello my lovely friends!

BEE FACT OF THE MONTHBees can keep the brood nest a

constant 32-35˚C by vibrating theirbodies in cold weather.

Halloween promises to bespooktacular at Gibside. Withscary events and fun activitiesevery day of half term, boys andghouls of all ages are sure to havea thrilling time. Even better – mostof the activities are free – afterpaying the normal admissioncharge.

Start the holidays with fiendishfood, drink, live music, face-painting and a fancy dresscompetition at the HalloweenHogroast on Friday 26th October.From Saturday 27th October toSunday 4th November, buddingwizards and witches can followthe pumpkins on a trail throughGibside’s woods and pick up

ingredients to make a horribleHalloween potion.

On each Gruesome Gibsideweekend you can get creepilycreative with pumpkin-carving (£3a pumpkin – booking essential)and show off your creations onwoodland pumpkin parades.

Find out more at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside.


Durham University

invites you to Celebrate

Science 2012.

Celebrate Science is back and

this year it’s bigger and better.

Children of all ages can visit the

marquee on Palace Green, the

heart of Durham’s World Heritage

Site, to carry out amazing

experiments and create their very

own inventions!

With a great range of FREE hands-

on activities designed to appeal to

all the family, Celebrate Science

is a great half term day out.

Experts will be on hand to answer

questions on everything from

lasers to the Lindisfarne Gospels.

There will be exciting

demonstrations and visitors can

step inside a planetarium to see

the stars. Leading consumer

goods manufacturer Procter &

Gamble have supported the event

with a stimulating experiment,

exploring the magic behind

perfumes and discussing how

fragrances affect us.

As part of our collaboration with

Durham Book Festival, Seven

Stories storytelling chair will be

visiting too.

For more information visitwww.durham.ac.uk/celebrate.science


At Cragside there is plenty to seeand do in autumn, especiallyduring October half term.

On Sunday 21st October,Cragside is showcasing GreatBritish apples as part of NationalApple Day. You can see aselection of over forty varieties ofapples displayed in the formalgarden’s Orchard House.

Over October Half Term, 27thOctober to 4th November,families can explore therhododendron labyrinth and seekout Douglas the wood carving inthe pinetum. You can also takepart in water experiments just likethe creator of Cragside, LordArmstrong. With the wave of awand and a squirt of water youtoo can make electricity. It’s funfor children and only £1 per child.

Near the Visitor Centre, there is atemptingly steep grassy bankwhich leads down to TumbletonLake. You can tick off Number 28of the National Trust’s 50 thingsto do before you’re 11 ¾ list whichis ‘Roll down a really big hill’.

Also, throughout October halfterm don’t miss the Great BritishWalk campaign at all NationalTrust places. Step out at Cragsideand enjoy an array of walks.Whether you fancy self-guided, awalk with a map or with waymarkers, Cragside has got the lot.

Then as winter sweeps in,Cragside will be getting ready towelcome a special visitor. Santawill be popping in to say hi tochildren on Friday, Saturday andSunday between 30th Novemberand 16th December. He and hiselves will be spending the winterdays collecting children’sChristmas lists and offering outfree gifts.

The whole family can meet thebig man and explore the outdoorsbefore coming inside to relax inour festively decorated TeaRooms for Christmas lunch. Pullcrackers with friends and familywhile we serve you at your table.Choose either a 2 or 3 coursemeal, including tea and coffee ata cost of £19.50 per person for 2courses or £22.50 per person for3 courses.

Autumn at Cragside

To book Christmas lunch at Cragside call the NationalTrust booking office on 0844 249 1895 or book onlineat www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cragside.


Visit Wallingtonthis Autumn….

During half term, you can take aWalk on the Child side and followthe self-guided walk through thewoods or go Beyond the Ropesand explore hidden parts of theHouse to find out about some ofthe childhood adventures of theTrevelyan children.

If you are looking for Halloweenfun, why not join Wallington’sresident witch for spooky stories,have a go at a haunting Halloweentrail or make your own creepycrafts on Wednesday 31stOctober? For those feeling reallybrave, you can also enter theForest of Frights between 4.30pm& 7.30pm too!

Normal admission charges applyplus small charge for someactivities.

For more information, please call 01670 773600 orvisit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington.

From spine-tingling tales and spookyactivities, to Roman adventure dayson Hadrian’s Wall, English Heritagehave plenty planned to keepeveryone entertained throughout theOctober half term holiday.

Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens willexplore the darker side of history foryour little horrors with the TimeTravellers Go… Ghosts and Ghoulsevents (Saturday 27th October –Sunday 4th November). With spookyactivities taking place throughout thesite, prepare for a scare as youngsterswill be entertained with Halloweentreats including creepy crafts andghost hunting galore. What’s more, inthe atmospheric setting of Belsay’sHall, visitors will also be invited tomeet the costumed Victorian storyteller as he tells a variety of eerie tales.

Meanwhile, at Chesters Roman Fort,the iconic site will be recreating life inRoman Britain for children, with theTime Travellers Go… Roman events(Saturday 27th October – Sunday 4thNovember). Any little soldiers will beable to discover what life was like forRoman soldiers and citizens with anassortment of hands-on activities,including weapon and objecthandling, Roman games and drillpractice. There is also the opportunityto take part in the Roaming RomanTrails and find those missing Romansoldiers!

Jon Hogan, events manager forEnglish Heritage in the north, said, “Aswell as the traditional spooks andHalloween treats, English Heritage hasplanned some exciting half termevents that will suit every taste.

“Belsay Hall isrenowned for itsspooky connectionsand lends itselfextremely well for alook at the darker sideof history, but foranyone looking toenjoy a spook-freeHalloween, we’veteamed up with theTime Travellers atChesters Roman Fort,for a fun-filled week ofRoman activities.”

Ghosts, ghouls and romandrills keep the thrills comingthis october half term.


For more information about English Heritage eventsin the North East, visitwww.english-heritage.org.uk/northeast


ALNWICK GARDENUnless otherwise stated events &activities are free after paying admissionwith no booking required. All events aredrop in 11am-4pm. Visitwww.alnwickgarden.com for moreinformation.

Sun 21st & 28th OctSPELL BOOKSEvery good witch, wizard & warlock hastheir own unique spell book. Usingcrafting materials, imagination &inspiration from the resident witches,you too can have a spell-binding day.

Sat 27th OctWAND-MAKINGCreate your very own magical wand totake home to help you improve yourwizardry skills.

Sat 27th – Wed 31st OctPUMPKIN CARVINGThe Garden witches will help you tochoose a plump pumpkin & carve it into aghastly ghoul or grinning friend to guidethe way when you are trick-or-treating.£3 per pumpkin (includes candle).

Sat 27th – Wed 31st OctTHE POISON PUMPKIN TRAILHow many poisonous ingredients canyou find hidden in pumpkins around TheGarden? Keep the knowledge to yourselfor compare them to the Three Witches’brew – which ingredient is missing fromtheir recipe?

Sat 27th – Wed 31st OctJACK O’LANTERN TALESJoin Jack O’Lantern, the king ofpumpkins, for tales of the strange, theweird & the nasty for the under 12s – beprepared to squirm!

Mon 29th OctSCARY SILHOUETTESUnleash your creative side withsilhouettes inspired by the spookyPoison Garden - whether you createscary spiders, skull & crossbones, orspiky poisonous plants, get crafty with alittle help from the professional artist!

Tues 30th OctBOOKMARKSGhastly ghosts, creepy cats, wickedwitches – create your unique Hallowe’enbook mark!

Wed 31st OctTRICK OR TREAT BAGSCreate your own unique goodie bag tostore your Hallowe’en treats in style.

Wed 31st OctPUMPKIN PARADEFollow Jack O’Lantern with your

pumpkins in a merry dance to collect yourown special trick or treat from the Hovel.

Wed 31st Oct 4.00-6.30pmA SPOOKY SUPPERPut on a spooky costume and enjoy tea &treats as Jay and his creepy crawlyanimals come out to play this Hallowe’en!£10pp or £35 for a family (2 adults, 2children), Tel 01665 511080 to book.

Fri 26th Oct – Sun 4th NovJUICE FESTIVALVenues across NewcastleGatesheadNewcastleGateshead’s award-winningfestival for children & young people. Ifyou’re looking for fun-filled things to doaround October half term for the wholefamily then look no further than JuiceFestival! www.juicefestival.co.uk.

Mon 29th Oct – Fri 2nd NovGRAINGER MARKETFree children's activities &entertainment in the Grainger Arcadeduring Half Term Week. Contact DoreenBlakemore 0191 2115533.

We take great care to ensure all this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip … or promise!What’s On

Newcastle

North Tyneside

Gateshead

South Tyneside

Northumberland

Newcastle

SELFSTORAGE

Brewery Lane, Felling, Gateshead, Tyne & Wear NE10 0EY

email: [email protected] Tel: 0191 438 1616

www.thestorageplace.co.uk

from £10.00 per weekFREE MOVE-IN VAN


Sat 24th & Sun 25th Nov OUSEBURN OPEN STUDIOSOuseburn A unique chance to glimpse behind thedoors of some of the region’s mostcreative artists & designer-makers. Manyof the studios taking part in the event willbe hosting a number of fun interactiveworkshops, artist-led demonstrations,creative family events & other activities.

EVENTS AT SEVENSTORIESThe Centre for Children's Books30 Lime Street Newcastle upon TyneNE1 2PQ 0845 271 0777www.sevenstories.org.ukUnless indicated, no booking required &events are Free after paying admissioncharge. Booking fee is in addition toadmission charge.

Sat 20th Oct 11am & 1pmSIR CHARLIE STINKY SOCKSJoin that brave, bold knight, Sir CharlieStinky Socks on his latest quest, to bringback a long, lost treasure. Enter a spookyunderground world with all manner oftricks, traps & medieval puzzles. Ages 5+Booking essential. £3 per person.

Sun 21st OctOXJAM NEWCASTLE TAKOVER 2012Tickets £3 per person viawww.wegottickets.com/oxjamncl2012 All proceeds will go directly to Oxfam.Admission fee to Seven Stories applies.

11am ELEANOR & JULIA’S MUSICALADVENTUREJoin Eleanor & Julia on their excitingmusical adventures as they lead youthrough songs & dances from aroundthe world especially chosen for the veryyoung.

12.45pmTAFFY THOMASWith a repertoire of over three hundredstories & thirty years’ experience, Taffywill thrill & inspire the imaginations of thewhole family.

Sat 27th Oct – Sun 4th NovEXHIBITION LAUNCH!A VIKING’S GUIDE TO DEADLYDRAGONSDrop in all day & be the first to witnessthis brand new exhibition which takesyou into the world of the Vikings, long agowhen dragons lived among us. Learnwhat it means to be a Viking hero withdragon themed craft activities includingdesigning your own dragon, making yourown Viking helmet & adding to theDragonese Dictionary. Celebrate Vikingstorytelling with themed stories all week. Plus on Sat 27th & Sun 28th October, theresident dragon-catcher will breathe lifeinto the willow dragon. With your helpwe’ll build a dragon that weaves & twistsits way through our attic beams. And on Sat 3rd Nov meet Derek theTalking Dragon all day.

Sat 27th Oct 10amHOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGONJoin Cressida Cowell, best-selling authorof the incredibly popular How to TrainYour Dragon series, for an event full ofViking history, legend & dragonlore. Findout about her inspiration for the series &how you can write your own dragon &Viking stories! Strictly no burning orpillaging allowed. Booking essential. £3 per person.

Mon 29th Oct 10.30am – 12.30pm &1.30pm – 3.30pm DEADLY DRAGONS COMIC BOOKWORKSHOPA dragon-filled comic book workshop!

Re-design yourself as a Viking hero,create a ferocious dragon & developyour own comic strip adventure. Ages8+. Booking essential. £10 per child,includes admission. £8.50 for annualpass holders.

Tues 30th Oct 10.30am & Thurs 1st Nov 1.30pmSCALY STORYPARTYEnter a world of dastardly dragons, listento scaly stories, play games & singscorching songs all inspired by yourfavorite fiery friends. Early bookingessential. £2.50 per participating child inaddition to admission fee. Suitable forages 18 months to 5 years.


Fri 2nd & Sat 3rd Nov 11am & 2pmDASTARDLY DRAGONS WORKSHOPJoin in these fantastically fieryworkshops, developed & led by young-people aged 15 – 18yrs. Work as a familyto create dragon themed props to takealong to the Juice Festival Finale DragonsParade & add to your costume to makesure you really look the part!

Sat 10th & Sun 11th NovJACK & THE BEANSTALK WEEKENDTo launch DanceCity’s Christmasproduction of Jack & the Beanstalk, thisweekend is dedicated to this popularfairytale. We’ll be sharing some surprisingversions of the story & inviting you to joinus in making a beanstalk & dangly giant.Daily Storytimes will be at 11.30am &2pm.

Sat 10th Nov 10.30am-12.30pmSCENE STEALERS : CREATE AFAIRYTALE WORLDWhether you prefer damsels to dragons,beauty to beasts, bring along a shoe box& join in with this exclusive model makingworkshop & create a scene straight outof your favourite book. Ages 8+ . £6 perperson, no additional admissionrequired. £4.50 for annual pass holders.

Sat 17th & Sun 18th NovGHOSTS & GHOULS WEEKEND!Drop in all weekend & celebrateeverything hairy, scary & spooky with

ghoulish activities for all the family. Join inwith spooky stories & create creepy craftactivities to scare all of your friends!

Sun 18th Nov 2.30pmCONSTABLE & TOOPDress up as spookily as you dare andcome along & meet Blue Peter BookAward- winning Gareth P Jones for aghost-themed afternoon of spookystories, songs & fun as Gareth reads fromhis new book Constable & Toop. Ages 8+.

Sat 24th & Sun 25th NovDEAR ZOO WEEKENDDrop in all day & Roar! Trumpet! Sqwark!To celebrate 30 years of the classicpicture book Dear Zoo. What’s yourfavourite animal? Create your own exoticpet to take home, fashion someenormous elephant ears & listen tostories jam-packed with fantastic furryfriends.

Sat 24th Nov 10.30am-1.30pmPUPPET MAKING WORKSHOPTransform your favourite fairytalecharacter into a beautifully craftedmarionette puppet. Learn storytellingskills to bring your character to life beforeperforming your own mixed up fairytalein our specially designed puppet theatre!Ages 8+. £10 per person, no additionaladmission fee required. £8.50 for annualpass holders.

DISCOVERY MUSEUMBlandford Square, NE1 4JATel: 0191 232 6789.www.twmuseums.org.uk/discovery

Wed 31st October 4-6pmSPOOKY NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM!This is the perfect way for young ghosts& ghouls to take over the Museum afterhours with Spooky trails & Halloweenthemed craft activities Who knows whatyou'll meet in the dark corridors atnight...Get dressed up & join in the fun,with special prizes for imaginativecostumes on the night. Tickets £5 perchild available on (0191) 232 6789.

LAING ART GALLERYNew Bridge Street, NE1 8AGTel: (0191) 232 7734www.twmuseums.org.uk/laing

Mon 29th (10am-4pm) & Tues 30th Oct (2-4pm)FUTURELAND NOWA photography workshop for families.Explore ways in which you can digitallyalter a photograph to create your ownpiece of family artwork. No experiencenecessary & all equipment will beprovided. Please bring along aphotograph of a place that is special toyour family. Cost £20.00 for a familyticket (up to 4 people including at leastone adult). Limited places, please pre-book.

Sat 3rd Nov & 1st Dec 10.30am-12 noon SATURDAY ART CLASSES FOR OVER 8’SOn the first Saturday of each month,enjoy some Saturday art fun! Developdifferent art techniques, using the Laing'sexhibitions as inspiration. The classes are£4 & there is no need to book. Tel 01912112102.

LIFE Centre for Life, Times Square, NE1 4EP.www.lifesciencecentre.org.uk

Sat 27th Oct – Sun 4th NovSPOOKY SCIENCE WEEKEnjoy spine-tingling fun with slimeworkshops & don’t miss the fantasticNEW 4D Motion Ride – Dracula plus theNEW planetarium show, Moonstruck.

Wed 31st Oct 5-8pmHALLOWEEN NIGHTLife is staying open late so forget trick ortreating & get set for some ghoulishlygood fun! Celebrate this mostspooktactular night, race through thecreepy castle catacombs on the new 4DMotion Ride, Dracula; uncover thesecrets of the Moon, the brightest objectin the sky in Life’s latest planetariumshow, Moonstruck & explore candles,sparkles & lights that glow in the dark inthe theatre show In the Dark… are youbrave enough…?

FEELING BRAVE??For Spine tingling fun visit the Farm

this Halloween with lots to do indoorsPumpkin Carving (extra charge)

Creep through the Ghostly Grim Grotto Wizard & Witches School

Goulish GamesBeastie Shows & Birds of Prey

Fancy Dress Competition & Monster ParadePLUS

Meerkat Feed & TalkFrisbee Golf, Soft Play Barn, Racing Cars

Adventure Playground, Go- karts, Bouncy CastlesWillow Maze, Café & lots more

HALLOWEENSPOOKTACULAR

Open daily 10am - 5pm10% off admission with this advert

20th & 21st Oct & 27th Oct – 4th Nov 2012

HALLOWEEN FUN DAYWednesday 31st October

FREE activities running throughout the day,normal admission charges apply.

Telephone 0191 259 9966 for more details.FREE Entry for accompanying Adults & Babies (Under 1) at all times.


Sat 10th Nov- Sun 24th FebSKATING@LIFE & SANTA’S SLEIGHRIDEJoin Blitzen & Bobo the elf as they cometo Santa’s assistance on Life’s 4D MotionRide, Sleigh Ride, plus take a whirl on theoutdoor ice rink for a fun, festive day outthis winter.

Wed 31st Oct – Fri 2nd Nov 10.30am-12.30pmHALLOWEEN AT ST MARY’SSt.Mary’s Lighthouse, Whitley BayDrop in & enjoy ghostly games, creepycrafts & tales of the islands spooky past.Children (& adults) welcome to come infancy dress. Suitable for 7 - 12 year olds &must be accompanied by an adult. Cost£2.50 per child. Tel: 0191 2008650.

Fri 2nd Nov 6.30pmSEGEDUNUM FIREWORK DISPLAYSegedunum Roman FortFree annual fireworks display. Doorsopen from 4pm & the display will startaround 6.30pm & last approximately 15minutes. In the event of poor weatherthe display may be cancelled orrearranged. Tel 0191 2369347.

Sat 4th Nov NORTH TYNESIDE FIREWORKSDISPLAYThe Links, Whitley BayThe annual free event on The Links,Whitley Bay traditionally sees thousandsof people turn out. Fairground rides willkeep the children entertained & there willbe refreshments to help keep warm. Inthe event of poor weather conditions thedisplay will take place on the nextavailable evening, weather permitting. Tel0191 6437409.

STEPHENSONRAILWAY MUSEUMMiddle Engine Lane, North Shields, Tyne & Wear, NE29 8DXTel (0191) 2007146www.twmuseums.org.uk/stephenson.Open 11.00am - 4pm Weekends &School Holidays. Admission Free.Train rides Cost Adults£2.45, Child/Conc £1.20, Family £6.10 (2 adults & 2 children).

Sun 28th Oct 11am-3pmHALLOWEEN SPECIALWith the rattling of the track & the wailingof the horn, are you brave enough toboard the Halloween Train? Take a rideon the spooky train with a day of spookycrafts & stories... if you dare!

Sat 1st & Sun 2nd DecSat 8th & Sun 9th DecSat 15th & Sun 16th DecSat 22nd & Sun 23rd Dec10.30am, 11.45am, 1.15pm & 2.30pm.SANTA SPECIALSThe whole family is invited to join Santafor a magical adventure aboard theSanta Specials train. Take anunforgettable journey by vintage steamtrain before heading back to themuseum for festive refreshments &Christmas craft activities. Tickets are £10per person and include a gift for allchildren over the age of 12 months. Bookearly to avoid disappointment.

Sat 27th Oct – Sun 4th Nov 11am-3pmGRUESOME GIBSIDE POTION TRAILGibside NT, BurnopfieldSet off on a wild & spooky trail throughthe woodlands collecting ingredients fora grizzly potion. Free event but normaladmission charges apply. Tel 01207541820.

Sat 27th & Sun 28th OctSat 3rd & Sun 4th Nov 11am-3pmGRUESOME GIBSIDE PUMPKINCARVINGGibside NT, BurnopfieldGet creepy & creative, carving your own

pumpkin lantern. This event will befollowed by a Pumpkin Parade at 3pmeach day. Cost £3 per child in addition tonormal admission charges. Tel 01207541820.

Thurs 1st Nov 11am 1pm & 2pmJUNK JEWELLERY WORKSHOPSt. Mary's Heritage Centre Explore exciting ways of creating yourown piece of jewellery using recycledmaterials such as bottle tops, pop tops &a variety of textiles. An opportunity forchildren to try something new in the halfterm, & produce a lovely keepsake totake away & to be really proud of. Ages7+. Cost £7.00. Tel 0191 4334699.

North Tyneside

Gateshead

Sat 10th & Sun 11th NovFEED THE BIRDS WEEKENDGibside NT, BurnopfieldGive local birds a helping hand this winterby making tasty feeders for your gardenat home. Get amazingly close to wildbirds as our bird-ringer catches, studies& sets them free! Tel 01207 541820.

BALTIC CENTRE FORCONTEMPORARY ARTGateshead QuaysTel: 0191 4781810 [email protected]

Mon 29th – Wed 31st Oct 11am-4pmHALLOWEEN PUMPKINCARVINGDrop in & help carve 1,500 pumpkins.Dress up in your best spooky costume &get carving. Admission FREE.

Tues 30th & Wed 31st Oct 11am-4pmHALLOWEEN SENSORY SPACESVisit the special Halloween themed roomcreated by Sensory Spaces, specialists ininclusive, multi-sensory arts & playactivities. Admission FREE.

THE SHIPLEY ARTGALLERYPrince Consort Rd, Gateshead, NE8 4JBTel 0191 4771495.www.twmuseums.org.uk/shipley

Every Wednesday 10.15 - 11.15amduring Term TimeSHIPLEY SCAMPSA fun arts & crafts session suitable forchildren aged 2 - 4 offering a range ofcreative activities along with singing &stories. Sessions are £2 per child.

Fri 2nd Nov 5-7pmBOOM BLOOM BANG! POW WOWPATTERN!Join leading textile artist, MichaelBrennand-Wood to transform one of thegalleries in this two hour workshop. Workwith fabrics, paper, paint & thread tocreate 3D patterns inspired by theshapes of flowers. No experience isneeded. For ages 7+.

Sat 27th Oct – Sun 4th Nov 11am-3pmGHASTLY GHOSTIES & GHOULSBede's World, JarrowMake a glow-in-the-dark ghost & listen toscary stories from Jarrow Hall. Exhibitionincluded in admission price to museum:£5.50 adults £3.50 children Family Ticket£13.50. Tel 0191 4892106.

Sun 28th Oct 10am-4pmHALLOWEEN EXTRAVAGANZABede's World, JarrowA Halloween event packed with spookystories, party games & prizes for themost gruesome costume! Cost £3.00.Great family fun this Halloween! booking recommended. Tel 0191 4892106.

Tues 30th & Wed 31st Oct 10am-12pm & 1-3pmHALLOWEEN CRAFTSWest Boldon Environmental Education CentreSpooky crafts & Halloween hijinks whereall participants are asked to attend infancy dress. Cost Adults £4.00, Children£6.00. Pre-booking required. Tel 01914281144.

Tues 30th Oct 1-4pmTHE GREAT GEOCACHE TREASUREHUNTSouter Lighthouse NTA unique adventure around WhitburnCoastal Park hunting for treasure the 21stcentury way...using GPS! Bookingessential for this free event. Tel 01915293161.

Tues 30th & Wed 31st Oct 5-7.30pmTRICK & TREAT HALLOWEEN PARTYDunes Adventure IslandGreat fun for the kids with fancy dress, aDJ, party games & access to the soft play area. Cost £5.00 entry for 1 adult & 1 child.Tel 0191 4555255.

Wed 31st Oct 11am-4pmHALLOWEEN TRAIL & CRAFTSSouter Lighthouse NTEnjoy art & craft activities & follow aspooky trail around Souter Lighthouse.Normal admission charges apply. Tel0191 5293161.

Wed 31st Oct 3.30-5pmHALLOWEEN MAGIC PARTYThe Customs HouseJoin leading magician Martin Duffy for anafternoon of spooky fun, magic & gamesfor the under 11s. Cost Child £7.00, Adult£5.00. Tel 0191 4541234.

Thurs 1st Nov 11am-4pmCRAFTS FOR KIDSSouter Lighthouse NTEnjoy fun self-led arts & craft activities.Craft packs available for 50p. Tel 01915293161.

Sat 24th Nov 2-5pmCHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ONKing Street, South ShieldsChristmas officially begins in SouthShields with the annual light switch on.Tel 0191 4247985.


South Tyneside


Sat 20th & Sun 21st Oct 10am-5pmWALLINGTON FOOD & CRAFTFESTIVALWallington NTCelebrate the variety & quality of food &crafts from across the region. Enjoy over80 stalls of fantastic local produce alongwith demonstrations & children'sactivities. Reduced admission chargesfor this weekend - just £4 for adults &children go free!Tel 01670 773600.

Sun 21st Oct 10am – 5pmAPPLE DAYCragside NTA celebration of this humble fruit. See aselection of over 40 apples, displayed inthe Orchard House & enjoy deliciousapple recipes in the Tearooms. Freeevent but normal admission chargesapply. Tel 01669 620333.

Sun 21st Oct 11am-12.30pmAUTUMN TREE WALKBolam Lake Country Park NE20 OHEEnjoy the delights of the Autumn colourswith activities for children. Finishes with awarming cuppa! Adults £2.50 child£1.00. Tel661 881234.

Sat 27th – Tues 30th Oct 10.30-11.00amBEYOND THE ROPESWallington NTBecome an explorer at Wallington.Follow November Club as they revealthe secrets of the attics where you willencounter stories from the past &discover where the Trevelyan childrenplayed. Age 7+. Children must beaccompanied by an adult.All Tickets £5. Booking Essential 01665833751.

Sat 27th Oct – Sun 4th Nov 10.30am - 4pmTAKE A WALK ON THE CHILD SIDEWallington NTPut your best foot forward & follow aself-guided walk through the WestWoods to find out about some of the

childhood adventures of the Trevelyanchildren. Free event but normaladmission charges apply. Tel 01670773600.

Sat 27th Oct – Sun 4th Nov 11am-3pmHALLOWEEN WATER WIZARDSCragside NTHead to Cragside for wizarding fun withwater. Take part in water experimentsjust like Lord Armstrong & with the waveof a wand & a squirt of water you too canmake electricity.Cost £1 but normaladmission charges apply. Tel 01669620333.

Sat 27th Oct – Sun 4th Nov 11am-4pmGHOSTS & GHOULSBelsay Hall, Castle & GardensLet your little horrors scare themselvessilly this Halloween with creepy crafts,spooky activities & ghost hunting galore!There will also be the chance to meetthe Victorian costumed performer forshocking tales of grave robbing! Adult£7.70, Child £4.60, Family £20.00. Tel01661 881636.

Sat 27th Oct – Sun 4th Nov 11am-4pmTIME TRAVELLERS GO…ROMANChesters Roman Fort & Museum Could you hack it in Roman Britain? Takepart in a variety of hands-on activitiesfrom games to drills & crafts. Hear aboutRoman life as a soldier & citizen, try oncostumes & handle Roman weapons &objects. Adult £5.20, Child £3.10. Tel 01434 681379.

Mon 29th & Tues 30th Oct, Thurs 1st& Fri 2nd Nov 11am-3pmHALF TERM HALLOWEEN FUNCherryburn NT, Mickley, Stocksfield,NE43 7DDExplore the spooky side of Cherryburnwith some help from Thomas Bewick &create your own monstrousmasterpieces. Free event but normaladmission charges apply. Tel 01661843276.

Northumberland


Wed 31st Oct 11am-3pmHALLOWEEN FUNWallington NTMake Halloween crafts, try thespooktacular children's trail & hear scarystories told by the resident witch. Smallcharge for some activities but normaladmission charges apply. Tel 01670773600.

Wed 31st Oct 4.30-7.30pmFOREST FRIGHTSWallington NTDare you brave the forest of frights, fullof strange happenings & spookycharacters? All adults to beaccompanied by courageous childrenon this terrifying trail through the eeriewoods. Enter at your peril'. Adult £2,Child £4, Family £10. Tel 01670 773600.

Thurs 1st Nov 10am-3pmDIGITAL MEDIA WORKSHOPCollingwood Media College, Stobhillgate, NE61 2HAA chance to try out some of the activitieson offer such as animation, musicproduction & video game design. Ages8+. Cost £12.50 (bring Packed Lunch).Pre-booking & payment necessary. TelNicky Wall 01670 516374.

Thurs 1st Nov 1.30-3pmOWL PELLETSPlessey Woods Country Park, NE22 6ANFind out about these fascinating nighthunters, dissect their pellets & discoverwho they had for dinner. Ages 5+. Cost£2.50. Bookings only. Tel 01670 824793.

Sat 3rd Nov 10am - 12.30pmPLASTERCINE ANIMATIONCollingwood Media College, Stobhillgate, NE61 2HATry out some of the principles ofanimation using plastercine. Ages 8+.Cost £7.50. Pre-booking & paymentnecessary. Tel Nicky Wall 01670 516374.

Sat 10th & Sun 11th Nov 10am-4pmCHRISTMAS GIFT FAIRBelsay Hall, Castle & GardensBeat the Christmas rush! A rich variety ofspecialist crafts & unique gifts will be onsale throughout the Hall. Adult £7.70,Child £4.60, Family £20.00. Tel 01661881636.

Sat 24th & Sun 25th Nov 11am-4pmA VICTORIAN CHRISTMASBelsay Hall, Castle & GardensMeet Victorian Father Christmasdressed in traditional colourful costume,reciting famous yuletide stories &poems. Join the audience to relax &listen to these heart- warming storieswhere there will be an opportunity forphotos. Adult £7.70, Child £4.60, Family£20.00. Tel 01661 881636.

Sat 24th & Sun 25th Nov 11am-12.30pm & 1.30-3pmCHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS CRAFTSWallington NTDrop in & have a go at making fantasticChristmas crafts. Small charge for itemsmade. Free event but normal admissioncharges apply. Tel 01670 773600.

Sat 1st Dec 10am-12.30pmCOMPUTER ANIMATIONCollingwood Media College, Stobhillgate, NE61 2HATry out some of our computer basedanimation techniques. Ages 8+. Cost£7.50. Pre-booking & paymentnecessary. Tel Nicky Wall 01670 516374.

Sun 2nd Dec 10am-4pmBUMPS BABIES & BEYONDCHRISTMAS FAYRELonghirst Hall, MorpethSomething for pregnancy, babies &children with a few things for Mum &Dad. Free entry. Pre register by email tosee Santa for [email protected] 07590 120052.www.northumbrianevents.co.uk.

(discounts for advance bookings) per session.Walker Technology College, Waverdale Avenue, Walkergate, NE6 4LAElite Academy Football Tel: 07848 182 [email protected] www.eliteacademyfootball.co.uk

Football CoachingSkills Nursery 4-6yr olds Saturdays 9-10am

Skills Centre 7-10yr olds Fridays 6-7pmSessions start November 2012

Valid until 25th November 2012. Offer subject to availability. Offer only valid on production ofthis voucher. Management reserve the right to withdraw or change this offer without notice. All regular & promotional tariffs include an allowance for a shoe hire fee of £1.30 per person.No discount is offered for customers using their own bowling shoes. Must be pre booked.

FOR UP TO 6 PEOPLE PER HOUR

Terms & Conditions

Only £9.95

ONLY £3 PER CHILD

Until Sat 3rd NovOLIVER!Starring Brian Conley as Fagin! Following a sell-out run in London’sWest End, Cameron Mackintosh’sfabulous new production, one of themost beloved British musicals ever,Oliver! is coming to the NewcastleTheatre Royal! Bringing vividly to life Dicken’s time-less characters with its ever-popularstory of the boy who asked for more,Lionel Bart’s sensational score in-cludes Food Glorious Food, ConsiderYourself, You’ve Got to Pick-a-Pocket or Two, I’d Do Anything, OomPah Pah, As Long As He Needs Me &many more. Tickets from £15.50.

Tues 27th Nov – Sat 19th Jan2013ALADDINA long time ago in the far off city of

Newcastle, just north of Peking, liveda boy called Aladdin – go & join himon a magical carpet ride starring The-atre Royal favourites Clive Webb (MrTwankey), Danny Adams (Aladdin) &Chris Hayward (The Empress ofChina). Another unmissable showpacked with genies by the lamp-load,an abundance of laughs, spectacularsets & stunning costumes! Tickets from £11.00.

Tues 18th Dec – Sun 6th Jan 2013CINDERELLABlue Genie Entertainment returns tothe PLAYHOUSE this Christmas withthe classic pantomime, Cinderella,welcoming Hollyoaks star & Dancingon Ice contestant Jennifer Metcalfeas Cinderella & 'Any Dream Will Do'runner-up Keith Jack as the Prince.Also, the North East's No. 1 ComicSteve Walls who will take on the mis-chevious role of Cinderella's best

Family & Children’s ShowsTheatre What’s On Guide

Theatre RoyalBox Office 08448 11 21 21


Whitley Bay Playhouse

BOX OFFICE 0844 277 2771

friend, Buttons alongside two realShetland ponies.Tickets from £7.00.

Fri 7th Dec – Sun 6th Jan 2013ROBIN HOOD & THE BABES INTHE WOODGet ready to boo, hiss & cheer at an-other large helping of panto fun fromNewcastle Panto Company. SeeRobin Hood attempt to outwit theevil Sheriff of Nottingham, as well asrobbing from the rich to give to thepoor & freeing the unfortunatebabes in the wood & their haplessnanny whilst also trying to romancethe beautiful Maid Marion along theway. It’s clearly going to be a busy dayin the forest! All this with the help, orin Robin's case, hindrance of his mot-ley crew of Merry Men! Tickets from£11.00

Sat 27th Oct 11am & 2pmCHRIS & PUI ROADSHOWCBeebies’ favourite double act Chris& Pui are bringing their road show totown. See Incy Wincy, HumptyDumpty, the Grand Old Duke of York& – “oh my woolly word!” – Little BoPeep all live on stage. Laugh, sing &

join in with the duo as they performsketches, rhymes & songs for pre-schoolers & their families.Tickets £11.00.

Thurs 1st Nov 2pmTHERE WAS AN OLD LADY WHOSWALLOWED A FLY!The People’s Theatre Company bringone of the world’s best loved nurseryrhymes to life for the very first time.This magical new show has beenwritten especially for parents toenjoy with their children, so come &relive the delights of this mostcharming of tales with a feast of firstclass games, colourful animal char-acters & heart warming family fun.Tickets £9.50, £8.50 conc £32 Family.

Sat 3rd Nov 11am & 1.30pmTHE WHEELS ON THE BUSDeveloped with teachers to supportthe early years foundation stage, joinBuster the big red bus with all of hisfriends on their magical adventures,journeying through a song book lovedby all the family.Tickets £12, £10 conc, £35 Family.

Thurs 29th Nov – Sun 6th JanDICK WHITTINGTONThe Customs House proudly presentTommy & Dotty's biggest adventureyet, Dick Whittington, The LittlePanto with the Big Heart!Tickets from £8.00.

MILL VOLVO TYNE THEATRE

BOX OFFICE 0844 493 9999

Customs HouseSouth Shields0191 4541234

www.customshouse.co.uk


Win a Family Ticket to seeDICK WHITTINGTONat The Customs House, South Shields.

The Customs House Christmas Pantomime this year is DickWhittington which runs from Thursday 29th November until Sunday

6th January 2013. This will be Tommy & Dame Dotty's biggestadventure yet! Tickets start from only £8.00 and are available from

The Customs House Box Office on 0191 4541234.

Primary Times have teamed up with The Customs House to give youthe chance to Win a Family Ticket (2 adults & 2 children) to see Dick

Whittington this Christmas by simply answering the following question:

Send your answer along with your name, address, telephone number & school detailsto Customs House Competition, Primary Times, 1 Denehead Cottages, Hexham Road,Walbottle, Newcastle upon Tyne NE15 9RX or by e-mail [email protected]. Entries must be received by Monday 5th November2012. The winners will be notified thereafter. The judges decision is final & there is nocash alternative!

Question: Who is Dame Dotty’s partner in crime?

Answer:

Christmas Evenings atBeamish MuseumBe part of the magic of Christmas, take a trip back in time to Beamish Museumon Friday 7th, 14th or 21st December and enjoy the festive fun. Delight in a crispwinter evening of Christmas celebrations, indulge yourself with roastedchestnuts, mulled wine, mince pies and entertainment from the times. Browsethe market stalls, meet Father Christmas in his magical Grotto and take a turnon the real ice rink.

These are ticket only events, tickets are £12 per person (under 2s free) and childtickets include a small gift from Father Christmas. They are available online atwww.beamish.org.uk or by calling 0191 370 4000 (Mon to Fri, 9am to 4pm).

Primary Times have teamed up with Beamish Museum to give you the chanceto Win a Family Ticket (2 adults & 2 children) for one of these Friday Christmasevenings by simply answering the following question:

Q. On what day of the week are the ChristmasEvenings at Beamish Museum?

A.

Send your answer along with your name,address, telephone number & school details toBeamish Competition, Primary Times, 1 Denehead Cottages, Hexham Road,Walbottle, Newcastle upon Tyne NE15 9RX orby e-mail to [email protected] must be received by Monday 5thNovember 2012. The winners will be notifiedthereafter. The judges decision is final & thereis no cash alternative!

COMPETITIONS

primary times newcastle october issue

Documents