Issuu

The essential magazine for parents of children aged 0–teens

Issue 11: January/February 2013

❄

! e e r F

London–Kent Borders

Win

A personalised consultation with The Food Owl 10

Travel special PLUS: The benefits of Alexander Technique ❆ Reader offer for The Baby Show ❆

Plus: News, ‘What’s on’ & much more inside! ★ For families living in the Bromley & Bexley boroughs, Dartford & the surrounding areas of Kent www.familieslondonkent.co.uk

130mm x 87mm wide:Layout 1 05/12/2012 17:20 Page 1

BROMLEY HIGH SCHOOL

 

Excellence

    

CELEBRATES 130 YEARS OF

Us she will Thrive

With

4+, 7+, 11+ and 16+ Fees assistance & Scholarships available (11+ and 16+) S BH

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               

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Tel: 020 8781 7000 admissions@bro.gdst.net

 

Next Open Day: Friday 17 January & Tuesday 26 February. Doors open at 10.45am

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www.familieslondonkent.co.uk

In this issue 4 News 5 Comment 6 Clubs & Classes & Education

7 Health & Lifestyle 8 Travel 10 Out & About 11 Events 12 What’s On 14 Lorna Crust of Aquakids In an attempt to banish the gloomy weather, we’ve decided to put our thinking caps on and hope you’ll be inspired by our travel suggestions that will have you dreaming of hot sunny days in no time. Plus we’ve taken a look at the benefits of Alexander Technique as part of our new Health & Lifestyle page. And to get you all feeling super healthy, we’ve teamed up with Lucy Grainge from the Food Owl who is giving you the chance to win a personalised nutrition consultation (worth £70)! Visit www.familieslondonkent.co.uk/competitions to enter.

Juliette Dixon, Editor 020 8466 6977, editor@familieslondonkent.co.uk Follow us on Facebook at Families London–Kent Borders Magazine and on Twitter @familieslkb © Families London–Kent Borders. We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequences. Any original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s own risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families London–Kent Borders nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. Families London–Kent Borders is part of the Families® group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under license. Printed by Williams Press Ltd, www.williamspress.co.uk

Maths & English tuition Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to children aged 5-14, designed to improve knowledge, confidence and enjoyment of learning.

020 8466 6977

tries new things with relish. She counts the days until she can come back here!”

Explore Parent.

Book your free trial session today to find out how Explore Learning can help your child to gain confidence, enthusiasm and new skills.

HILDCARE

USE THEM AT EXPLORE!

UCHERS

As members, children work with tutors who are great role models, enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators. The individual focus allows children to work at their own pace – whether they are finding school tricky or are top of the class!

“The hesitancy and lack of confidence that held her back is gone. Now she

Explore helps children make fantastic academic progress, in addition the vibrant atmosphere keeps them engaged and focussed enabling them to have fun while they learn.

01689 867 302 High Street, Orpington www.explorelearning.co.uk/orpington

Babble from the Borders

News & Views Bromley High is 130!

Ray Kennedy, RSPB Images

RSPB ‘reconnects’ kids to nature With more than 50% of the world’s population now living in cities, there is growing concern that generations of children with little or no contact with the natural world pose one of the biggest threats to the future of the UK’s natural environment. The RSPB is unveiling a revolutionary approach to reconnect children aged 8-12 with the natural world and wildlife, exploring their empathy for creatures, responsibility for nature, enjoyment of nature experiences and sense of ‘one-ness’ with nature. ‘Without the opportunity and encouragement to get outdoors and connect with nature, children are missing out on so many benefits that previous generations have enjoyed, and it’s putting the future of our wildlife and natural environment at risk,’ says RSPB’s Chief Executive, Dr Mike Clarke. Rachel Bragg from the University of Essex feels we must ‘understand how a child’s experience of nature influences their feelings of connection to the natural world as this will affect future behaviour towards the environment.’ Check your family’s level of connection to nature in a questionnaire at www.rspb.org. uk/getoutdoors

In January 1883, on Elmfield Road in Bromley (above), Bromley High School opened its doors. As one of the second wave of schools opened by the Girls’ Public Day School Company (GDST) it was a pioneer. The educational landscape then was very different to that which we inhabit today. Quite apart from the long dresses, the horse drawn carriages and the lack of modern technology, the world that girls inhabited and the world that, as women, they were destined for, was determined, almost exclusively, by their class and their gender. However, Miss Heppel, the founding headmistress, encouraged the girls, as is the GDST’s ethos, to be forward thinking, innovative and ambitious, thus ensuring them an equal education and equal chances in life to their brothers. Today (below), as the school celebrates ‘130 years of excellence’, the same ethos remains. ‘We continue to put girls at the heart of all that we do and we are very proud of all that they achieve,’ says Head Teacher, Louise Simpson. To find out more about January 2013 assessments, taster days and tours of the school email admissions@bro. gdst.net or visit www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net

www.familieslondonkent.co.uk

Comment

Your rights when returning to work

Support National Storytelling Week The 13th Annual National Storytelling Week (26 Jan–2 Feb) encourages all areas of the community to take part in creating and enjoying storytelling, this most ancient of communicative arts. National Storytelling Week has an audience of around 17,000 people, so get involved in workshops, performances and events across the country. Find out more at www.sfs.org.uk/ national-storytelling-week

Help for Legal Aid… The introduction of the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 which comes into force on 1 April 2013 means the end of legal aid for all Divorce and children cases relating to Residence, Contact, Prohibited Steps Orders and Specific Issues that may arise in respect of children. Legal aid will also cease for financial cases relating to matrimonial assets and assets owned by cohabitees. Legal aid will continue on these types of cases if the person is a victim of ‘domestic abuse’; the definition for ‘domestic abuse’ has been widened to include emotional and psychological abuse, financial abuse, coercion or control. However for victims to fall within the exemption of the domestic violence, they will have to show a conviction or a caution or evidence either from a doctor, a health professional or domestic violence support organisation. However, there is a huge concern for those who do not fall within this exemption but have limited means. There will simply be no legal aid available to deal with applications in respect of children and financial applications after April 2013. Text supplied by Duncan Lewis Solicitors Duncan Lewis maintains that legal services should be available to everyone and are avid supporters of Legal Aid and proactively help many clients. Their Family Department has 85 staff with most of them being accredited Panel members, spread over seven sites across London. They have the expertise to help those considering or in the process of separation and offer speedy advice and, if required, secure legal aid before the 31 March 2013. You can contact them 24 hours on 02072752010. For reader offer see page 15.

020 8466 6977

The ability to return to work after you have had your children should be a right not a privilege and yet so many mothers have difficulty in returning to work after they have taken maternity leave or a career break. Sarah-Jane Butler, Director of Parental Choice, explains the position A woman who has taken up to 52 weeks maternity leave has the right to return to exactly the same job that she left. She can return to work at any time before the end of her maternity leave provided she gives her employer at least eight weeks’ notice of the date she intends to return to work. If the original job was full-time and she would prefer to work on a more flexible basis, she has the right to request flexible working. Although the law may be clear on the principles but sadly the reality is not always so straightforward. Requesting flexible working, for example, has to be carried out according to particular statutory guidelines and even then, although you have the right to request flexible working, you don’t have the right to have that request automatically accepted. Your employer can refuse on a number of grounds and you cannot make another request within the following 12 months. In addition women are often reluctant to request flexible working as they believe that ‘flexible working will/ would adversely affect their career progression in [their] company’. Flexible working and career prospects Over 54% of employees who responded to a recent survey were concerned that flexibility may negatively affect their career. Unfortunately there is still an attitude, in many workplaces, that if individuals request a flexible working pattern they are not ‘serious’ about their careers. This concern has been further evidenced in a

survey of 800 women solicitors, which suggested that half of women lawyers considered that solicitors who took up flexible working were ‘viewed as less serious about their careers’. The majority of flexible working proposals are requested by the individuals needing to manage their childcare and this is still largely a responsibility borne by the women and it is, therefore, mothers who primarily bear the brunt of such attitudes. It is not all doom and gloom! Attitudes and policies are slowly changing. The Government concluded a consultation last year on modern workplaces which considered the reform of flexible working. That’s all very well you might say but will that change my employer’s attitude? Firstly if it is enshrined in law, they will have no choice. Secondly employers are slowly discovering that a lack of availability of flexible working patterns, as well as their poor utilisation is a key factor in women leaving their jobs. By promoting flexible working and offering more family friendly policies, the likelihood of key employees remaining in their roles increases dramatically. A survey in 2011 found that there was a ‘striking correlation between employees being “happy with their work-life balance given their working arrangement” on the one hand and employer flexibility and practical support.’ Happiness at work means greater commitment and productivity. A win-win situation for employers and employees alike especially since, for each woman that leaves work, it can cost up to three times her salary to replace her. Ultimately, the key for women wanting to return to work is to be properly prepared and to understand their rights. For further information contact Parental Choice, a ‘one-stop shop’ for your childcare needs and advice on your legal rights before, during and after pregnancy, quoting our special promotional code: FMPC1 for a 5% discount. www.ParentalChoice.co.uk

Clubs & Classes & Education

Inspirational learning

To keep up-to-date with local news stories visit

www.familieslondonkent.co.uk Classes designed exclusively for babies from birth to 13 months

Award Winning Baby Development Classes Babies have an extraordinary capacity to absorb information in their first year at Baby Sensory we don’t waste a single moment!

Breaside Kindergarten in Bromley is a motivational pre-school where children experience their first taste of learning in a warm and caring environment. At Breaside, each child is treated as an individual, enabling them to make excellent progress with their learning and all round development. Children, both boys and girls, join Breaside Kindergarten from the age of 2½ and are provided with an ‘Outstanding’ introduction to their education through both play and learning. From Kindergarten, the children join Reception and continue their school journey with ‘excellence in education’ being the key focus. Breaside Preparatory School was classed as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in 2011. Breaside will be holding Open Days onThursday 7 February between 1.30pm and 3pm and Saturday 16 March from 10am until 12.30pm. If you are unable to attend the Open Days contact the school directly on 020 8460 0916 to make an appointment for a personal tour.

Dates for the diary: School Open Days 2013 • Breaside Preparatory School Bromley (020 8460 0916) 7 February, 1.30pm–3pm & 16 March, 10am–12pm • Babington House School Chislehurst (020 8467 5537) 9 March, 9am–12pm • Baston House School Bromley (020 8462 1010) 17 January & 26 February. Doors open at 10.45am. Principal’s talk at 11am • Bickley Park School Bickley (020 8467 2195) 8 February, 9.15am–12am • Farringtons School Chislehurst (020 8467 0256) 17 January, 9am–11am • Merton Court Preparatory School Sidcup (020 8300 2112), 26 January 2013, 9am –12pm * Please note some Open Days require you to register before attending.

• Music • Puppet Shows • Massage • Water Play • Baby Signing • Fibre Optic Light Shows • Movement & Bonding and so much more the possibilities for learning are endless!

2011 Junior

AWARDS

WINNER TM

in association with...

E COM OR A GF N ALON LIGATIO B L! O O N TRIA

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Classes running across Bexley, Dartford, Greenwich and Medway. For more details visit www.babysensory.com Email: bexley@babysensory.co.uk Or call Renee – 07952 579 044

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Beat colds in Winter

Explore Learning

We have teamed up with Lucy Grainge, Nutritional Therapist from The Food Owl (www.thefoodowl.co.uk) for her tips on how to beat colds this Winter. So please visit www.familieslondonkent.co.uk/health

Explore Learning is opening a new centre in Orpington to provide maths and English tuition for 5 to 14 year olds. The centres pride themselves in helping children to gain in confidence through an enjoyment of learning, with each child able to work at their own pace to achieve their goals. For more information or to book a free trial call 01689 867 302

12/12/2012 17:49

Sports and Fitness Fun for 2 to 5 year olds Our classes encourage pre-school children to be active and healthy using assault courses, sports activities and games

T: 07812 676815 E: info@kiddicardio.com

www.kiddicardio.com 6

www.familieslondonkent.co.uk

Health & Lifestyle Colin Openshaw MSTAT Alexander Technique Bromley South One-to-one lessons for children & adults Posture • Co-ordination • Awareness www.alexandertechniqueteaching.com Telephone:07984 471412

Business MuMs Wanted Successful local business is seeking five partners to work part-time from home without compromising family commitments. If you have a Managerial, Sales, Marketing, Recruitment or Self-Employed background and you want to develop a more balanced lifestyle around your family’s needs, call Katie

01737 766403 / 07909 681884

Alexander Technique aids handwriting Problems with handwriting can have many causes, but one reason why children sometimes struggle is an incorrect way of sitting. Does your child lean unbalanced to one side the moment he or she picks up a pencil – with arm and shoulder tight? Or lean down on the table with heels off the ground? With jaw clenched determinedly? ‘In my work as a personal tutor to school children of all ages, and as an Alexander teacher, I have seen many cases of bad habits in relation to holding a pen,’ explains Colin Openshaw, an MSTAT Alexander Technique teacher based at Bromley South. Children can learn many skills much quicker than adults and love to imitate, but, as we all know, they will copy the bad as well as the good. Sitting effortlessly balanced should be the starting point when a child first learns to hold a pencil - but, sadly, this is too often overlooked. ‘In my experience, a child who can sit comfortably upright is more likely to be able to concentrate and pay attention, but a child who feels uncomfortable at the desk is more likely to fidget and tire and develop bad habits and negative feelings towards the whole idea of school work,’ says Colin. ‘ Then the poor thing may be accused of having a bad attitude when, in fact, bad posture is the root of the problem.’ Thanks to Colin Openshaw, MSTAT (www.alexandertechniqueteaching.com)

020 8466 6977

Le tri

Home & Office Organiser

• Get decluttering and you’ll be amazed at the difference!

• Le Tri will declutter and organise any room in your home or office and also provides a cleaning service. 07551 329 645 (Julianah) • info@letri.co.uk

www.letri.co.uk

Great family holidays... Family-friendly fun, from the Alps to North Yorkshire Stay on a Farm

Tiger reserves re-open to families

The Supreme Court in India has recently lifted its ban on tourism in over 40 tiger reserves, re-opening the door to tourists. The ban was put in place back in July 2012 following concerns that tourism was having a detrimental effect on the tiger population. Families Worldwide has spaces on its 11-day Taj and Tigers trip departing 14 February. Call 0845 051 4567 or visit www.familiesworldwide.co.uk for more information.

Farm Stay UK is a farmers’ cooperative that celebrates it’s 30th birthday this year. All its members are working farms, small holders or rural enterprises and they offer holiday accommodation ranging from B&B in a farmhouse to self-catering in converted barns and even a converted pig sty. Many also run traditional campsites. Chief Executive Andy Woodward says ‘in the last few years many of our members have begun to offer alternative accommodation such as pods, wigwams and shepherds huts. They are great because you have all the fun of camping, with a bit of glamour.’ Family pods sleep between 4 to 6 people and facilities at each site differ, with some being part of an established campsite, and others are part of a smaller venue. For more details visit www.farmstay.co.uk – if you are interested in staying in a pod, wigwam or shepherds hut search for ‘alternative & camping’ in the ‘accommodation type’ field. The National Youth Hostel Association also offers pods at two of their Youth Hostel sites – Hawkshead, Ambleside in the Lake District and Grinton Lodge in North Yorkshire, which have proved very popular with visitors. The pods come equipped with power, heat and light and are insulated with sheep’s wool to ensure a warm night’s sleep for all the family. They also have a covered seating and cooking area. See www.yha.org.uk for more details.

Ski with an independent tour operator

Glamping Enjoy the best of the beautiful British countryside at Mill Farm in Wiltshire, from the comfort of a luxurious canvas lodge equipped with a wood burning stove, comfy beds, a nice warm shower and much more inside. They also have a self-catering farmhouse on their family-run, organic farm, and with acres of grassland for kids to run wild, and lots of local attractions, such as Stonehenge and Longleat, there really is something for everyone! For more information call 01380 828351 or email info@millfarmglamping.co.uk

Established 21 years ago, Ski Famille offers families a range of handpicked properties in France and Austria. All chalet holidays include five days of free childcare and all properties are ski in/ski out or very close to the piste. Chris Thompson, managing director says: ‘the business has a high rate of repeat business and the majority of new guests choose Ski Famille as the result of a personal recommendation.’ The Ski Famille office team are all keen skiers or boarders with young children of their own so they know how to ensure families book the right holiday for their needs. Visit www.skifamille.co.uk for more details.

www.familieslondonkent.co.uk

And for some me time…

Where to go… North Devon

Devon is one of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations, and for good reason: wonderful beaches, plenty to do (even in the rain), beautiful scenery and a wide choice of where to stay. Libbear Barton, a country estate on the north side of the county, hits just the right note of luxury (beamed cottages that are beautifully laid out and furnished) and has everything on hand, from stairgates to babysitters, for the hard-pressed family. There’s an indoor pool, games room, play areas inside and out, fishing lake and woods – all on a rolling, 40-acre estate, and with the sea a half hour’s drive away. Perfect for big families or families holidaying together – the farmhouse sleeps up to 14. Prices vary, but for example Moley’s Place, sleeping eight in four bedrooms, costs around £1,700 a week in high summer. For more information visit www.libbearbarton.co.uk Where to go...the Alps The Alps are much too good to save for your skiing holidays – in fact, those who’ve tried the area in summer and winter often say summer is the best time to be there. For a wonderful family Alpine holiday, you’ll be hardpressed to improve on the Chilly Powder formula – choose from a luxurious hotel or a villa, all set in a biscuit-tin picture-perfect location, complete with in-chalet childcare and – for the foodies – an in-chalet chef. Sports on offer include white water rafting, rock-climbing, trekking, tennis and summer tobogganing (which is one of the most fun summer sports, and kids adore it). Prices vary depending on what sort of package you’re after, but as a for-instance, Chalet des Amis (three bedrooms; sleeps up to eight) is £1,200 in the midsummer. Find out more at www.chillypowder.com

020 8466 6977

Do you fancy a holiday with a difference? Then why not join Ismini Phillips on her Pilates Holiday in Abruzzo, Italy from Monday 29 July to Sunday 4 August 2013. Having run two successful Pilates retreats in Italy during 2012, Ismini returns again with two more holidays, in April and July 2013 (the April holiday being already fully booked). On this holiday you can truly get away from it all, get in tune with your body, feeling totally relaxed and refreshed. A minimum of 5 people to a maximum of 8 can attend. The cost is £550 based on two people sharing, plus flights. Single supplement is £75. The holiday is real value for money

and includes airport transfer to/from Pescara Airport, all food (except for one meal out at a restaurant costing around €15 to €20 Euros a head), two trips (one to the beach and one to the local medieval town of Atri), full use of pool, hot tub and sauna, sheets, towels and dressing gowns etc, and of course all Pilates classes. A £100 deposit is required to secure a place. Flights are with Ryanair from Stansted to Pescara. Contact Ismini via her website: www.isminiphillips.com to register your interest or email her to book at ismini@isminiphillips. com or phone 07711 906750.

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What’s On

Out & about THEATRE & FILM CHURCHILL THEATRE

High Street, Bromley, 08448 717 620, www.atgtickets.com/bromley 5–6 Feb The Moscow State Circus: Babushkin Sekret Witness This outstanding cast of Russia’s talented circus artistes combine contemporary and classical circus in this sensational extravaganza. 10–11 Feb The Gruffalo’s Child Tall Stories Theatre Company brings Julia Donaldson’s and Axel Scheffler’s award winning sequel to life in this magical adaptation. 11–13 Mar The Russian State Ballet & Orchestra of Siberia present La Fille Mal Gardée (11 Mar), Coppélia (12 Mar) & Swan Lake (13 Mar) Tickets from £23.

FAIRFIELD HALLS Park Lane, Croydon, 020 8688 9291, www.fairfield.co.uk 11 & 12 Jan Miki Based on the book by Stephen Mackey, Miki is an inspiring story about friendship, courage and adventure featuring Miki, Polar Bear and Penguin. Join them as they embark on a magical adventure one midwinter eve in search of a star and enjoy amazing underwater creatures, songs and extraordinary puppetry. 22 Jan Guinness World Records Officially Amazing Science Live! Enjoy this new show which explores the best, worst, weirdest and unbreakable world records ever attempted and see if you too can be a record breaker! 2 Feb, 11am Arthur Davison Family Concerts: The Elements – Earth, Water, Wind & Fire Featuring The Snowman 19–23 Feb Horrible Histories – The Terrible Tudors 20–23 Feb Horrible Histories – The Vile Victorians 23 Feb Russian State Ballet of Siberia perform The Nutcracker LYRIC THEATRE Shaftesbury Avenue, London 0844 412 4661, www.roomonthebroomlive. com Until 13 Jan Room on the Broom Adapted for the stage from the best-selling book by Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson MBE and Axel Scheffler. A spellbinding adventure from the creators of The Gruffalo! The witch and her cat are flying happily along on their broomstick when a mighty wind blasts

the witch’s hat, bow and wand away into the night! What will happen next? Fasten your seatbelts for a rip-roaring ride on a truly magnificent broom! Age 3+.

NATIONAL THEATRE South Bank, London SE1 9PX, 020 7452 3000, www.nationaltheatre.org.uk Until 26 Jan, 1.30pm, 3pm, 6pm & 7pm Hansel and Gretel Explore the world of Hansel and Gretel in an intimate and captivating new production of this classic fairytale which promises to be an enchanting Christmas treat for the whole family. Ideal for 7 to 10 year olds. Tickets £12 for under 18s.

THE ORCHARD Home Gardens, Dartford DA1 1ED, 01322 220000, info@orchardtheatre. co.uk www.orchardtheatre.co.uk 16–17 Feb Milkshake! Live Join Milkshake presenter Amy and her friends including Little Princess and Scruff, Noddy and Tessie Bear, Roary and Big Chris, Fifi and Bumble and B! & B2 – the Bananas in Pyjamas in this fun packed show. 20 Feb The Russian State Ballet & Orchestra of Siberia perform Coppélia 21 Feb The Russian State Ballet & Orchestra of Siberia perform Swan Lake

DAYS OUT

Bank of England Museum Threadneedle Street, London EC2R 8AH, 020 7601 5545, www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum Until 31 Jan Gold and the Bank of England This exhibition examines the part gold has played in the Bank’s history.

BEDGEBURY NATIONAL PINETUM & FOREST

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introduction to wild birds and how to care for them, followed by a walk to look at birds and finally an indoors workshop making a nest box to take home. £6 per child. Booking essential. Children must be accompanied by an adult during the whole event. Pre-book your place for free parking for the day. For details and booking contact Visitor Services Information Office or call 01580 879820. This event will be held in the classroom. Age 8+.

BROMLEY MUSEUM The Priory, Church Hill, Orpington BR6 0HH, 01689 873826, bromley.museum@bromley.gov.uk Activities include board games, interactive play and making mosaics.

CHISLEHURST CAVES Caveside Close, Old Hill, Chislehurst BR7 5NL, 020 8467 3264, www.chislehurst-caves.co.uk See website for opening times and special events. Entrance to the caves is by guided tour only. Tours last 45–50 minutes.

DARTFORD BOROUGH MUSEUM Market Street, Dartford, Kent DA1 1EU, 01322 224739, museum@dartford.gov.uk www.dartford. gov.uk/museum Discover more about Dartford and its history with the help of children’s activity sheets. Until 20 Apr Just Add Imagination – Creative Play Over the Years This exhibition looks at hobbies and toys which require the use of imagination and self-expression from construction toys to dolls. It’s a great way to relive your youth and show your children the toys you and your parents used to play with, with exhibits including Meccano, Lego, plastic model kits such as Airfix, craft toys such as Plasticine and toy soldiers and dolls. Plus children can enter the colouring competition for a chance to win an Airfix model kit.

DICKENS WORLD

Bedgebury Road, Goudhurst, nr Cranbrook, Kent TN17 2SJ, 01580 879 820, www.forestry.gov.uk/ bedgebury ONGOING EVENTS Seasonal trails, family cycle trails (bikes for hire: 01580 879 694), horse riding (escorted hacks through the forest with Bedgebury Park Equestrian Centre: 01580 211 602) & Go Ape (www.goape.co.uk) 19 Feb, 10am–12pm Family Make a Nest Box Workshop Join staff at Bedgebury just after National Nest Box Week for a brief

Chatham Maritime ME4 4LL, 01634 890 421, www.dickensworld.co.uk Step back in time and experience life in the days of Charles Dickens. Attractions include the Great Expectations Boat Ride, Fagin’s Den, Peggotty’s Boathouse and the Haunted House.

ENGLISH HERITAGE PROPERTIES Members free. For prices & opening times visit www.english-heritage.org.uk

1066 BATTLE OF HASTINGS, ABBEY AND BATTLEFIELD

High Street, Battle, East Sussex TN33 0AD 16–24 Feb, 10am–3pm Norman & Saxon Quest Find mini Norman and Saxon soldiers around Battle Abbey to receive a prize.

Creative Cookery at Leeds Castle (18–22 Feb): demonstrations & swan making

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What’s On

Events

37th London International Mime Festival 0844 875 0073, www.mimelondon.com 10–27 Jan London’s unmissable annual celebration of contemporary visual theatre showcases ground-breaking visual theatre by artists from around the world.

City of London Dollshouse Festival The Tower Hotel, St Katherine’s Way, London E1 1LD, www.dollshousefestival.com 27 Jan, 10.30am–5pm Visitors will love looking at the designs by over 100 top craftsmen from around the world. Many of the exhibits

The City of London Dollshouse Festival (27 Jan) The London Bike Show, the Outdoors Show and Active Travel Show ExCel, London www. thelondonbikeshow.co.uk www.theoutdoorsshow. co.uk www. theactivetravelshow.co.uk 17–20 Jan Enjoy a fantastic, fun-packed, family day out as you immerse yourselves in all things bike, sport, travel and outdoors. Under 15s free.

are available to purchase on the day (prices start at 40p). There will also be children’s workshops from 1pm for the over 5s. Advance tickets available online. Destinations: the holiday and Travel Show Earls Court, www.destinationsshow.com 31 Jan–3 Feb If you can’t decide where to go for your next adventure this show is for you. With hundreds

DOVER CASTLE East of Dover town centre, Dover, Kent CT16 1HU 16–24 Feb, 10am–4pm Time Travellers Go… Secrets & Spies Sharpen your detective skills with this hands-on spy training. Have fun with weird wigs and mad moustaches and see if anyone recognises you with your new identity! Find out how real double agents and spies hid secret information and then, just like ‘Q’ in the James Bond films, have a go at making gadgets yourself.

LULLINGSTONE ROMAN VILLA

Lullingstone Lane, Eynsford, Kent DA4 0JA, 01322 863467. Wonder at the display of artefacts and dress up in traditional Roman costumes.

HALL PLACE AND GARDENS Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQ, tickets must be booked in advance, call 01322 621238, www.hallplace.org.uk 26 Jan, 10am–12pm & 1pm–3pm RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch Celebrate the opening

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of ideas and expert advice, you should feel inspired in no time. Chinese New Year in London 2013: The Year of the Snake www.chinatownlondon.org 10 Feb, 10.15am–5.40pm Chinese New Year Celebrations take place in Chinatown and Shaftesbury Avenue with a parade from Trafalgar Square at 10.15am and the day ends with a fireworks display. Free. Imagine Children’s Festival Southbank Centre, www.southbankcentre.co.uk 11–24 Feb, 10.30am–4pm The festival (sponsored by the Book People) returns with a range of theatre, music, film and comedy alongside readings by some of the UK’s top authors. Each day there are free and ticketed events for all ages. Who do you think you are? Live! Olympia National Hall, www.whodoyouthink youarelive.com 22–24 Feb This is the largest and most comprehensive family history show in the UK and is the best way to get the information and expert advice you need to explore your family history.

Circle of Eleven’s Leo takes physical theatre to creative and imaginative heights (Purcell Room 16–19 & 21–22 Jan) at the London International Mime Festival. Photo by Heiko Kalmbach

The Baby Show ExCel, London, www.thebabyshow.co.uk 22–24 Feb, 9.30am– 5.30pm This is the UK’s leading pregnancy and parenting event with 100s of must-have brands, specialist advice and demonstrations. Plus there’s expert advice and information on topics including breastfeeding, sleep, nutrition and first aid, daily fashion shows and competitions

of the new bird hide as you help to identify some of the River Cray’s birdlife, meet Jamb’s owls and make origami cranes. Free. 2 Feb, 11.30am–12.30pm I’m a Victorian Get Me Out of Here! Be part of National Storytelling Week at this entertaining show about Mr Jack Black, Queen Victoria’s rat catcher who has recently gone up in the world and is now on the lookout for new apprentices. Jack has some of the worst jobs in history on offer from collecting excrement to sweeping chimneys. Disgusting, exhausting – but someone has to do it. Adult: £7, child: £5. Booking required. Unsuitable for under 7s. 18–22 Feb, 10am–11am& 2pm–3pm Holiday Activity: Peter and the Wolf Hear how young Peter and his friends defeat a hungry wolf then make your own story mobile to take home. £4 per child, adults free. Booking required.

HORNIMAN MUSEUM 100 London Road, Forest Hill SE23 3PQ, 020 8699 1872, www.horniman.ac.uk

all in a family-friendly atmosphere. READER OFFER: Standard ticket prices are £20, but Families readers can book tickets from £10.95 when booked in advance before 20 Feb: quote FMKT1 (see pg.15).

With six galeries exploring Anthropology, Musical Instruments and Natural History, plus a wonderful Aquarium and a 16-acre gardens there really is something for everyone. There are a number of regular activities (check website for dates and times) including: Storytelling, Art Makers, Family Art Fun, African Drumming Workshops for Children, Nature Explorers, Discovery for All sessions, Pond Dipping and: Busy Bees Lively sessions for under 5s with creative play, enchanting stories from around the world, simple art and craft, songs and lots of fun. Hands on Family workshops: Touch real museum objects from all over the world. 26 Jan, 11am–3pm Big Garden Birdwatch

KENT LIFE Lock Lane, Sandling, Maidstone ME14 3AU, 01622 763936, www.kentlife.org.uk 16–24 Feb Launch of ‘Fun on the Farm’ Events include scheduled times to hand-feed alpacas, goats, horses and donkeys, with staff on

What’s On Bocketts Farm Park in Surrey sees the start of the Spring lambing at half-term hand to give extra information about the animals and ‘Meet the donkey’ sessions, when families can meet, groom and feed the donkeys.

FOAL FARM ANIMAL RESCUE CENTRE

LEEDS CASTLE near Maidstone, ME17 1PL, 01622 765400, www.leeds-castle.com Pay once and visit all year round. 18–22 Feb Creative Cookery at the Castle Bring the family to Leeds Castle and get creative with cookery. Children can make a white swan out of icing and there will be demonstrations on butter making using only a jam jar, marbles and cream. An additional charge per child will apply.

NATIONAL TRUST Members free. For prices & opening times visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk

BODIAM CASTLE

near Robertsbridge, East Sussex TN32 5UA, 01580 830196 20 & 27 Jan & 3 & 10 Feb Roast and Roam Blow away the winter cobwebs with a guided roam around the castle followed by a two course Sunday lunch. Booking essential. Adult: £25, child £10 (under 10yrs).

CHARTWELL

Mapleton Road, Westerham, Kent TN16 1PS, 01732 868381 16, 23 & 30 Jan & 6 & 13 Feb, 11.30am–1pm Woodland Walk Discover the winter landscape and wildlife. 16 & 24 Feb, 11am–4pm Half-term Family Fun Children’s trails, art activities and den building fun for all the family. 21 & 22 Feb 11.30am & 2pm Birds and Beasts Roadshow Enjoy a close encounter with birds and beasties including a tarantula, snake and giant millipede. £3 per person.

IGHTHAM MOTE

Mote Road, Ivy Hatch, Sevenoaks TN15 0NT, 01732 810378 20 Feb, 11am & 2pm Wild Child: Make a Bird Feeder Discover how to help the birds by making your own pine-cone bird-feeder. Booking essential. £4. 21 Feb, 10am & 2pm Children’s Cupcake Workshop Bake and decorate cupcakes under the supervision of the head chef. Booking essential. £5.50.

KNOLE

Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0RP, 01732 450608 / 01732 462100 6 Feb Winter Walks at Knole Join the volunteer guides for a walk through the park.

POLESDEN LACEY

Great Bookham, near Dorking, Surrey RH5 6BD, 01372 452048 16–24 Feb, 10am–4pm Family Fun at Polesden Lacey Keep warm on this family fun trail. Last admission £.30pm. Child: £1.

Central London! This experience lasts for around one and a half hours. £150 for 1–2 people and £250 for 3–4 people. Pre-booking essential. Age 8+. Call 01322 866 577 for more details.

Jail Lane, Biggin Hill, Kent TN16 3AX, 01959 572 386, www.foalfarm.org.uk 1.30pm–4.30pm (except Tues). Check website for holiday activities.

GODSTONE FARM & PLAYBARN Tilburstow Hill Road, Godstone, Surrey RH9 8LX, 01883 742546, www.godstonefarm.co.uk 10am–4pm. Adult £5.50, child (1 year) £2, child (2–16) £5.90. Check website for holiday activities.

FUN WITH ANIMALS

BOCKETTS FARM PARK Young Street, Fetcham, Leatherhead, Surrey KT22 9BS, 01372 363764, info@bockettsfarm.co.uk www.bockettsfarm.co.uk 16–24 Feb, February Half-Term Fun Enjoy a great day out with the start of the Spring lambing. There are up to 90 lambs due from 14 February and you may even see one being born! Birds of Prey will also be at the farm everyday where you can meet them up close and watch the flying demonstrations twice daily, along with the Pony Parlour, which will be open for pony grooming sessions throughout the day. Plus, there’s a full programme of fun farm activities including pony rides, tractor rides, animal handling and pig racing. The large indoor area with two giant playbarns, trampolines and ride-ons means you can have a great day out whatever the weather!

CHRISTMAS TREE FARM Cudham Road, Downe Village, Kent BR6 7LF, 01689 861603,www.xmastreefarm.co.uk 10am–4pm.

COLCHESTER ZOO www.colchester-zoo.com 26 & 27 Jan National Storytelling Weekend Visit the Kalahari Centre for a weekend of interactive, wild and wacky animal tales told in a unique style of this ancient art form.

EAGLE HEIGHTS WILDLIFE PARK Lullingstone Lane, Eynsford, Kent DA4 0JB, 01322 866 577 www.eagleheights.co.uk Check website for opening times and events information. Adult £9, child £5.50, concessions & students £7.50, disabled/carer £7.50. Flying displays 12pm & 3pm, reptiles and mammal encounter 1.45pm & daily demonstrations. Check website for holiday activities. Selected dates in Jan The Husky Experience The off-road ride is designed to give you a once in a life time opportunity to ride with a large team of huskies (8–14). You can relax or join in as you are pulled down hills along the 2 mile track which has beautiful views across Darenth Valley and

HOWLETTS WILD ANIMAL PARK Bekesbourne, Nr Canterbury, Kent CT4 5EL, 0844 842 4647, www.aspinallfoundation.org/howletts 9.30am–5pm. Adult £19.95, child £17.95, under 3s free – tickets valid for 12 months. Monthly themes: January: New Year’s Resolutions; February: Love Nests

PORT LYMPNE WILD ANIMAL & SAFARI PARK Lympne, Nr Hythe, Kent CT21 4PD, 0844 842 4647,www.aspinallfoundation.org/portlympne 9.30am–5pm. Adult £19.95, child £17.95, under 3s free – tickets valid for 12 months. Monthly themes: January: Evolution & Adaptation; February: The World About Us

WILDWOOD Herne Common, Herne Bay CT6 7LQ, www.wildwoodtrust.org 26 & 27 Jan RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch Join the world’s biggest wildlife survey and collect a free bird ID sheet and spend an hour in the woods counting the largest number of bird species seen on the ground at one time. 27 Jan, 6.30pm–9pm Wolf Moon Night Tour See the animals under the moonlight on a guided tour around the park to coincide with the full moon. £25 per person (includes hot meal). Must book. Age 10+yrs.

THE WOODLANDS FARM TRUST 331 Shooters Hill, Welling DA16 3RP, 020 8319 8900, www.thewoodlandsfarmtrust.org Closed Mondays. Check website for holiday activities. 19 Feb, 10am–3pm Felt Making Make some amazing felt flowers, butterflies and other animals using sheep’s wool. No booking required. 50p. 20 Feb, 11am–3pm Get Wild in the Woods Learn how to survive in the wild and have a go at shelter building, wild cooking over a fire and learn what animals need to survive. Age 6+. No booking required. Free. 22 Feb, 10am–2pm Help the Sparrows: Build a Bird Box Day help the birds in your garden by putting up a bird box ready for the

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‘Just Add Imagintion’ at Dartford Museum looks at creative play over the years with exhibits made of Meccano, Lego and Airfix nesting season. In London the number of house sparrows is dramatically decreasing so this bird box should encourage them back into your garden. Booking essential.

FUN WITH NATURE

COOLINGS GREEN & PLEASANT Main Road, Knockholt TN14 7LJ, 01959 534386 To book storytelling events visit www.coolings.co.uk

LULLINGSTONE COUNTRY PARK & VISITOR CENTRE Castle Road, Eynsford, DA4 0JF, 08458 247 600, www.kent.gov.uk/kentcountryparks Charges may apply, pre-booking on some events advisable. 16–24 Feb, 10am–3pm Follow the clues, answer the questions and complete the trail to receive a prize. Trail sheets available from the visitor centre. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No booking required. £2.50 per trail sheet.

NATURE NUTS Small Halls, Trinity United Reformed Church, Freelands Road, Bromley BR1 3AQ & Hall, Vine Baptist Church, Park Lane, Sevenoaks, TN13 3UP, Kirsty@nature-nuts.co.uk, www.nature-nuts.co.uk Bromley: Mondays 10.30am–11.15am Sevenoaks: Fridays 10.30am–11.15am (contact

830509, enquiries@wildernesswood.co.uk, www.wildernesswood.co.uk See website for lots of fun weekend activities ranging from woodskills, storytelling in the woods and craft activities. All activities must be pre-booked and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Kristy for term dates) Enjoy an original nature discovery play programme: suitable for pre-schoolers aged 2–5yrs. The classes include play, crafts, colouring and real wildlife encounters – from wiggly worms to hungry caterpillars, lovely ladybirds, fascinating natural objects and more. Children must be accompanied. Siblings 11 months and under free. Pre book online. Payment termly in advance. Sessions work out at around £6 each. (Refer a friend and get the next term you book at half price!)

New & NEARLY NEW SALES BUY IT BABY

07958 762828, www.buyitbaby.co.uk Baby and children’s fairs with nearly new sales 16 Feb, 11am–1pm Orpington New Village Hall, 311 High Street, Orpington, Kent BR6 0NN

CHILDREN’s NEARLY NEW childrensnearlynew@hotmail.co.uk Baby and children’s clothing, nursery essentials and shoes. Free parking and free admittance. 11 Feb, 10am–12pm Bexley Hurst Community Centre, Hurst Road, Bexley, Kent, DA5 3LH

SHORNE WOODS COUNTRY PARK

NCT NEARLY NEW SALE

Brewers Road, Shorne, Gravesend, DA12 3HX, 08458 247 600,www.kent.gov.uk/kentcountryparks Charges may apply, pre-booking on some events advisable. 16–24 Feb, 10am–3pm Follow the clues, answer the questions and complete the trail to receive a prize. Trail sheets available from the visitor centre. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No booking required. £2.50 per trail sheet.

TROSLEY COUNTRY PARK Waterlow Rd, Vigo, Meopham, Kent, DA13 0SG, 08458 247 600, www.kent.gov.uk/kentcountryparks Charges may apply, pre-booking on some events advisable. Check website for holiday activities.

WILDERNESS WOOD Hadlow Down, East Sussex TN22 4HJ, 01825

www.nct.org.uk – check website for local sales. in your area. Items for sale include good quality second-hand baby and children’s wear, maternity wear, baby equipment, books, toys and DVDs. £1 per adult; members can enter 15 minutes earlier if they show their membership card. 9 Feb, 10.30am–12pm Paddock Wood The Hop Farm, Paddock Wood TN12 6PY 9 Feb, 10am–12pm Erith Erith Christ Church, Erith DA8 3AN 9 Feb, 10am–12pm Gravesend St John’s Comprehensive School, Gravesend DA12 2JW We have taken every care in preparing the listings in this magazine but sometimes events are cancelled or times changed, so please double check details before setting out.

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And finally...

We caught up with Lorna Crust, founder of Aquakids, who shares her passion for special needs swimming opportunities

Have you always been interested in swimming? I swam competitively for Bexley Swim Club and the Met Police and I also represented the Met in Lifesaving competitions. I left the Police to focus on teaching and coaching and trained as a PE teacher – one of my highlights was going to the Junior Youth Games in Miami as a swim coach for the GB CP (Cerebral Palsy) Team! After gaining an Honours degree in PE, my first teaching job was at Darrick Wood Secondary School before moving into Special Needs at Valence School in Westerham. After Joe, my eldest, was born I did supply teaching in various local schools both Primary, Secondary, Special, Private and State – you name a school and I have probably taught there! What made you decide to set up a swim school? When my son was three I decided to look for swimming lessons for him but was unhappy with the lessons that were on offer locally. So over a glass of wine I mentioned to a friend that ‘if I had my own pool I would do it myself…’ and to my surprise he offered me use of his school pool. I launched Aquakids in 1994 with one class and just me teaching; I used the principles that I still use today: small classes, quality teaching and a personal approach to the lessons. I quickly had to expand and added another class and now 19 years later I have a fantastic team of over 10 teachers. My teachers and assistant teachers are highly qualified and experienced and give me tremendous support in making Aquakids so successful and I am very grateful to them. How does Aquakids fit in with family life? The business started to accommodate my family in terms of providing activities that I wanted them to experience with swimming being at the centre of that ethos. Over the years I have run gymnastics and football lessons alongside the swim sessions. And as a mum of three, having all the activities I wanted my children to take part in happening on the same day at the same time was very important. So really the business evolved and developed with my family at the forefront. And now, all my children have trained as lifeguards/swim teachers and work for me. They are excellent teachers and it helps their university funding!

14 020 8466 6977

of 32ºC (normal pool is 29ºC). And I also organise swim sessions in the summer term at MMC for children with disabilities who attend mainstream schools.

‘My favourite place this summer was Stratford – it was totally inspirational!’ I know you also teach at Majorie McClure in Chislehurst… I have taught at Marjorie McClure (MMC) for many years and in 2006 became the SSCo (School Sports Coordinator). MMC is one of a few Project Ability Schools across the country responsible for promoting inclusivity through CPD (Continuing Personal Development), competition or Club Links. As an SSCo I was part of the Bromley School Sports Partnership which was a fantastic National Network that developed School Sports and successfully increased the level of participation in sports as well as providing support and advice to local schools. Sadly the Government stopped that funding, ironically and controversially in the lead up to London 2012. However I still organise the Bromley Primary Schools Swim Galas and various other Borough events and initiatives, including free intensive swim lessons for children in Years 5 and 6 in Bromley Schools who are unable to swim 25 metres. I know you feel passionately about helping people with special needs… Yes, as well as my work at MMC I am also involved with the Project Ability status of the school, whose aim is to have more young disabled pupils taking part in competitive sport. Through this I have started adult and child classes for children with special needs at the sensory hydro pool at MMc – it’s amazing, with lights, music and a pool temperature

What do you look forward to most in your work? I absolutely love teaching at MMC and the creativity of being able to use the stimulating environment of our wonderful pool to reinforce curriculum work alongside swim skills. And obviously the most rewarding part of my job be it at Aquakids or in school is to see the enjoyment all children get from being in the water and ultimately learning to swim. It is also wonderful to see the confidence the swimmers achieve through their swimming which seeps into their everyday life. Anything that isn’t so enjoyable? The administration of organising the lessons is very time consuming but I take pride in responding to enquiries immediately and providing a very personal and individualised swim experience. I know every child’s name and their level and progress. I do a swim teacher training session entitled ‘More than just swimming’ and it’s the extras of communicating with the children and developing other social skills which is just one of the many benefits that sometimes parents forget are an outcome of quality lessons. What are your plans for the future? I am in the process of training as a swim tutor to train teachers and my aim is to deliver teaching qualifications and CPD to adults and to students in Years 11 and upwards. And the exciting new venture for 2013 is that I am joining forces with Alison Bell, an ASA Tutor, to set up a Swim Centre to run courses for teachers and trainee teachers in the area. • Aquakids lessons take place at Bromley High School. For more information regarding dates and crash course visit www.aquakids.co.uk If you are interested in the adult and child classes for special needs at MMC or the Disability Summer Swim lessons email Lorna at aquakids@me.com

Look out for the March/April issue

•Easter Holiday activities •Performing Arts Special •What’s On & much more • If you would like to be included, call 020 8466 6977 or email editor@familieslondonkent.co.uk

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Experience

With