It’s the first big school holiday of the year.

No doubt thoughts have turned to how to keep the little ones occupied for two weeks.

But there’s plenty to occupy all. Here’s just a few to choose from.

1. Steam Train to Norwich

Thursday, April 11. From 12.45pm, returning 5.50pm. 01483 209888.

There’s a real treat in store for steam train enthusiasts when The Steam Dreams Rail Co with its Pullman style carriages will be heading to Norwich courtesy of B1 steam locomotive Mayflower, which returns to the tracks after a three year refurbishment.

READ MORE: Mayflower steam train to run special trip from Colchester

2. Go Live! Birds Of Prey

Natural History Museum, High Street, Colchester. April 9 to 11. 12pm, 1.15pm and 2.30pm. £5. 01206 282941.

Come face to face with some fascinating birds of prey, meet the experts from Eden Falconry and discover more about these amazing birds from owls to falcons.

3. Bug Bingo

Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, Church Road, Layer-de-la Haye. April 8, 1.30pm to 3.30pm. Suggested donation £6 per child. 01206 738172.

Join the team at the Essex Wildlife Trust reserve for a bug hunt as you search the long grass for the creatures hiding there. See if you can catch enough for a full house. You can also complete a bug craft to take home.

4. West African Drumming Workshops

Colchester Arts Centre, Church Street, Colchester, April 20, 11am to 12pm and 1pm to 2pm. £5.95 each or £10 for both sessions. £12 family ticket, admits a family group of three containing at least one child. 01206 500900.

Drum teacher Dan Sceats will be running hands on drumming workshops using traditional West African drums, suitable for all drummers and would be drummers alike. The first session is aimed at a family experience, while the second is for those wishing to up their game.

5. Beauty and the Beast Easter Pantomime

Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton. April 14, 2.30pm and 7.30pm. 01255 686633.

Another all-singing, all-dancing, laugh-a-minute ride through the fun and frolics of panto land featuring X Factor and CBBC’s Lauren Platt and former Atomic Kitten Kerry Katona.