Primary Times - the definitive what’s on and where to go family guide of activities and events for children of primary school age. Things to do with your kids during the school holidays including arts and craft activities, music and theatre for children, parties, competitions, days out, and family attractions along with term time drama schools, dance classes, after school clubs and sports activities. Things to do at a place near you!
February Half Term and March in Dorset 2026
February Half Term 2026 is fast approaching and if you are struggling for things to do, then let us take the hassle of organising your family activities. Venues across Dorset are putting on lots of fun things for families to do this February and beyond.
Message from EPIC Solutions
“EPIC Solutions are a consultant led multidisciplinary team of highly qualified healthcare professionals including paediatrician, psychiatrist, psychologists, nurses, speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, mental health practitioners, creative therapist, dietitian and an emotional support dog. We offer holistic, integrated assessment and support for a wide range of additional needs in children and young people (0-25 years) including physical, psychological, educational, emotional, behavioural and mental health difficulties. You don’t have to know what you need just that something doesn’t feel right and you need help.
Our services include assessment for neurodevelopmental difference (autism, ADHD, FASD, language disorders, dyspraxia, sensory processing), educational difficulties (cognitive, executive functioning, dyslexia), trauma and attachment disruption, anxiety and mood disorders, behaviours associated with nutritional risk (ARFID, disordered eating, binge eating), and much more. We have dedicated, fully equipped space for occupational therapist led sensory integration therapy and for creative arts therapies, also a nursery area for 0-5 years developmental assessment.
We have our own bespoke, child and young person friendly premises on the outskirts of Exeter, easily accessible from all major roads, rail and flights into the southwest. We partner with a local hotel offering reduced price family accommodation to enable intensive assessment packages for those travelling significant distances.
For further information about EPIC and the services we offer please visit www.epicsolutions.org.uk or contact us via practice.manager@epicsolutions.org.uk. Follow us on social media.”
Message from Bryanston School
Bryanston School’s holiday activity programmes for children aged six and over, are designed to blend focus with fun. Running during holidays and half term, the camps give children the chance to try new activities, build confidence and make new friends in a safe environment. Children can improve existing skills or discover interests across a range of creative and active courses, supported by specialist Bryanston staff. Options include Sports Camps, expanded to include tennis and hockey, alongside experiences such as 3D modelling and printing, bouldering for beginners, DJing and electronic music production, equestrian camp, musical theatre, dance and drama. Childcare vouchers are accepted from certain providers.
Contact: holidaycourse@bryanston.co.uk/01258 484669
Price Lock on Birthday Parties for 2026 at Farmer Palmers!
Did you know that the award-winning Farmer Palmer’s offers Birthday Parties 🥳 Yes...you read that right....and on weekends and selected weekdays! "I just wanted to say thank you so much to the whole team for a spectacular birthday party. For us, it was the most relaxing party we have ever had because you all took care of everything beautifully! We were actually able to enjoy the party with E, which was really special”
For more information on what’s included, availability and details of how to book, please head to their website at www.farmerpalmers.co.uk
RNLI to share wartime Stories of Courage at new exhibition
In a fascinating new exhibition, find out how RNLI lifeboat volunteers saved lives at sea in extraordinary conditions during the Second World War. Discover true tales of bravery and learn about some of the most courageous rescues carried out by wartime crews. Test your knowledge by following our fun activity trail. Plus, between 17–21 February, there are free activities to enjoy every day from 10.30am. Visit the RNLI Stories of Courage 1939-45 exhibition between 15 January and 28 February 2026 at Lighthouse, Poole, BH15 1UG. To find out more, go to RNLI.org/exhibition
Dino-Mite Fun Awaits in Weymouth This Half Term!
Stomp, roar, and race into Weymouth this February Half Term! On Saturday 14th February, the award-winning Everybody Chase the Dinosaur takes over Weymouth Beach for a day of Jurassic joy. Meet life-sized animatronic dinosaurs roaming the streets, snap epic selfies, and join the fun runs registration midday—whether you’re a speedy raptor or a giggling T-Rex in fancy dress! Plus, enjoy crafts, fossil hunts, and our free AI Dino Trail all week long. It’s the ultimate family day out—laughs guaranteed and memories made. Don’t miss the roar-some fun!
Visit the Facebook event link https://fb.me/e/9ZYKG2YkE and https://weareweymouth.co.uk/dino-week-feb-2026/
Dino Tales
Dino Tales is an unforgettable family adventure starring some of the largest walking dinosaurs ever to roam the stage, a captivating story where you’ll meet Freya the dancing Raptor, Dylan the cheeky Dilophosaurus, Angie the Ankylosaurus, Scar the fearsome Spinosaurus and Roxy the mighty T-Rex. You and the kids will be jumping for Jurassic joy, so get ready for the ultimate Jurassic rescue adventure. Show date information: Weymouth – Pavilion Theatre. Thursday 19th February.
Find out more at www.dinotales.co.uk
Go Halves This Half Term at Monkey World
All kids’ tickets are half price this half term at Monkey World! Spend the day at the world’s largest primate rescue and rehabilitation centre, where, as well as seeing over 250 monkeys and apes, you can enjoy the beautiful park and woodland, and huge adventure play areas! Fun trails and extra activities will be running every day during the half-term, and visitors also get the benefit of seeing very special residents- the orphaned orangutans, Kiwi and Sibu, and a baby woolly monkey born to Oriana last month! Enjoy the special sanctuary for less this half term.
Book online at www.monkeyworld.org
Outstanding Avonbourne Boys and Girls' Academies
“Avonbourne Boys’ and Girls’ Academies, rated 'Outstanding’ and ‘Outstanding in all areas’ by Ofsted respectively, are two excellent schools which share the same site and ambition for students to thrive. Through a rich and stimulating education, we aim to equip students with the knowledge and tools they need for bright and successful futures. Alongside a high-quality academic curriculum, we also offer fantastic music, drama and sports facilities. We would be delighted to welcome you to one of our weekly open mornings so you can experience for yourself the supportive learning environment we have created. These can be booked here.”
Dumpton School
“Set within 26 acres of beautiful Dorset countryside, Dumpton School offers exceptional space to run, play, imagine and grow. Dumpton provides an inspiring environment in which pupils are encouraged to discover their strengths and develop a lifelong love of learning.
From the moment pupils step into our welcoming classrooms, they are met with kindness, encouragement and a strong sense of belonging that underpins their entire school journey. Within this nurturing atmosphere, children are supported to fulfil their potential academically, but also in terms of their character development. As Headmaster Christian Saenger says, "Dumpton will gently challenge your children to step out of their comfort zones to be the best that they can be."
We are proud for our approach to developing pupils’ character was recognised as a 'Significant Strength' in our most recent Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) inspection: “Pupils feel empowered to make the world a better place.” ISI, March 2025
Come and experience Dumpton School during our May 2026 Open Week, and discover how we inspire children to Be Kind and Aim High.
Find out more at www.dumpton.com | 01202 883818
Expect Great Things…”
Poole Harbour Festival to celebrate EPIC 10th Anniversary
Poole Harbour Festival is levelling up - with headliners Kaiser Chiefs, The Fratellis, Groove Armada, Scouting For Girls, Heather Small, and LOADS more acts across six stages. Join in on 31st July-2nd Aug 2026 for a fabulous, family-friendly summer by the sea!
Packed full of entertainment for all ages, there’s plenty for kids and teens too, with activities, performers, circus skills workshops, and funfair rides!
Family tickets start from £73 (2x adults + 2x child) - What better way to say I LOVE YOU this Valentine's day than the gift of an unforgettable experience?
Get yours: pooleharbourfestival.com
Corfe Castle
This February half term, come along to Corfe Castle for a playful family adventure inspired by Disney and Pixar's "Hoppers". Bring an adventurous teddy or borrow a castle veteran for our teddy zip line from high within the castle walls. Climb up through the ruins to discover one thousand years of history as a royal palace, fortress and family home. Spot the ‘murder holes’, count the arrow loops and feel history come to life.
Find out more at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/corfe-castle
Kingston Lacy
There’s space for all the family to enjoy half term at Kingston Lacy. Join in for seed sowing and craft activities in the tipi (at the start of the Woodland Walk – ask at reception for directions if you're not sure). You'll be able to decorate an eco pot and choose a seed to plant and take home. What will you watch grow this year? Then take a frisbee out onto South Lawn, a bike round the parkland, and a walk to the two play areas in the woodland and the Kitchen Garden. There’ll be puddles to jump in, snowdrops and daffodils to see and hot chocolate to drink in the café.
Find out more at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/kingston-lacy
Glenmoor and Winton Academies
“Glenmoor and Winton Academies are two outstanding single-sex secondary academies in Bournemouth that share the same school site and teaching staff. Students benefit from a single-sex education that fosters confidence in a thriving and encouraging learning environment, paired with the personal development and growth that comes from co-education. Our dedicated teaching staff deliver a broad and enriching education, including a Grammar Stream, placing our academies as two of the highest achieving non-selective schools in the country. We have excellent facilities on our vast site, including 25 acres of playing fields and an all-weather 3G pitch. Book a tour to see why we are so #GWProud.”
Dreaming of your next family getaway?
Hays Travel has teamed up with easyJet holidays to give Primary Times readers the chance to win an incredible £3,000 holiday voucher to spend on a holiday of your choice plus £3,000 for your school to support learning, equipment or unforgettable experiences for pupils. Whether you’re planning sunshine in Spain, island hopping in Greece or a city break packed with culture and adventure, this prize could turn your holiday plans into reality. Even better, there is great availability for July and August this year as well as free child places with a wide choice of family-friendly destinations and flights available from your region, making it easy to travel during the school holidays.
With Hays Travel’s expert, friendly service, this means you can book with confidence and make the most of your prize. From beach resorts to action-packed escapes, the choice is yours and while your family is making memories, your school will also be celebrating a fantastic £3,000 boost.
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to reward your family and your school at the same time. Enter now and start planning a holiday everyone will be talking about!
Visit - www.haystravel.co.uk/primary-times
BEAT Street Dance Company
“Celebrating 21 years of BEAT Street Dance Company, we’re proud to continue shaping dancers, culture, and community through passion, creativity, and movement. From our roots to today, BEAT has always pushed boundaries—and next term we’re bringing back one of our most in-demand classes: Flips N Tricks. After being fully booked last time, this high-energy tumbling class returns by popular demand, delivering power, technique, and excitement for dancers ready to level up. Spaces are limited and demand is high, so BOOK NOW to avoid disappointment. Be part of the legacy, feel the energy, and train with the best.”
Find out more at beatcompany.com
Introducing Rumble Run at BH Live Active, Stokewood
Get ready for an exciting new challenge with the launch of Rumble Run, a brand-new aqua run coming to BH Live Active, Stokewood February half-term! This inflatable obstacle course brings energy and fun to the pool, offering a thrilling experience for ages 8+. Whether you’re racing friends or testing your balance, Rumble Run is the perfect way to add adventure to your swim. Ideal for family days out or group activities, it combines fitness and entertainment in a safe, supervised environment. Don’t miss your chance to take on the run. Book your session for half-term and make a splash with something unforgettable.
Find out more about BH Live Active, Stokewood at bhliveactive.org.uk
RNLI to share wartime Stories of Courage at new exhibition
In a fascinating new exhibition, find out how RNLI lifeboat volunteers saved lives at sea in extraordinary conditions during the Second World War. Discover true tales of bravery and learn about some of the most courageous rescues carried out by wartime crews. Test your knowledge by following their fun activity trail. Plus, between 17–21 February, there are free activities to enjoy every day from 10.30am. Visit the RNLI Stories of Courage 1939-45 exhibition between 15 January and 28 February 2026 at Lighthouse, Poole, BH15 1UG.
To find out more, go to RNLI.org/exhibition
“RNLI Stories of Courage 1939-45 is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, we can gather and share these memories.”