Families_LKB_ed23_JAN_FEB2015 by Families Magazine

The essential magazine for parents of children aged 0–teens

Issue 23: Jan - Feb 2015

Yes it ’s

free! LONDON–KENT BORDERS

News & views Baby feature Travel feature Clubs & classes Health & beauty Out & about

Happy New Year! Plus... News, ‘Out & About’ & much more inside! For families living in the Bromley & Bexley boroughs, Dartford & theMagazine surrounding areas of Kent Follow us on Facebook at Families London–Kent Borders and on Twitter @familieslkb | 1

BREASIDE

PREPARATORY SCHOOL For boys and girls aged 2½-11 years

SIS say that we are “Outstanding”

OPEN DAY

Saturday 31st January 2015 9.30am - 12noon If you are unable to attend our Open Day please make an appointment for a personal tour of the school. We will be delighted to welcome you to Breaside. 41 Orchard Road, Bromley, Kent BR1 2PR For more information please call 020 8460 0916 www.breaside.co.uk info@breaside.co.uk

2 | January - February 2015 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977 | 07792 006546

55346 Pharmaton UK AD 87mm x 130mm AW.indd 1

08/07/2014 12:44

Inspected in October 2014

in this New Year issue Issue 23: January - February 2015

Confidence Building Fun

Call 0845 400 1316 or visit perform.org.uk to find your nearest venue.

Try a Free Drama Class 4 5-7 8-9 10-11

News & views Baby feature Education news Health & beauty

12 Clubs & classes 13 Travel feature 14-15 Out & about

Happy New Year to all our readers!

We have another packed issue full of information for you. A special focus on babies and a New Year, New You, just in case you are looking for that healthy change? Or looking to get away? Then check out our Travel page? As ever we bring you news about activities in and around Kent and what’s going on and don’t forget there is lots more online at www.familieslondonkent.co.uk. Wishing you all a very happy, healthy, and prosperous 2015.

Editor: Mima Walia | 020 8466 6977 or 07792 006546 editor@familieslondonkent.co.uk What’s On Editor: Melanie Carpigo Design: Toni Leo | www.leowoodcreative.co.uk Front cover: Samantha Taylor | www.samanthataylor-photography.com Printed by: Warwick Printing | www.warwickprinting.co.uk 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.

Mima Walia

news & views Thorpe Park Resort’s February half-term goes off with a

bang!

Explosive, electric and eccentric, Brainiac Show Live! returns to Thorpe Park Resort for a nine-day thrill spectacular over February halfterm from Saturday 14 February. Strap on your safety goggles and join Brainiac Live’s mischievous band of scientists for the ultimate entertainment show with a science spin. From freezing household objects with liquid nitrogen to exploding bins, rocket propelled chairs, giant airzooka and testing how to make a really big BANG, who knew science could be this fun. Guests can catch one of four 45 minute shows that will take place each day between 14 – 22 February as well as enjoying the Park’s thrilling family friendly rides.* *Selected rides available.

Art student honoured with gold award

in John Downton competition

Bromley Hugh School are delighted to report that Beatrice Forward in L6 has won the Gold award in the 11-16 category at the John Downton Awards ceremony on Thursday 13th November in Maidstone. This is an exceptional achievement as competition was very tough with over 300 entries selected from 36 schools in Kent. The presentations were made by Charles Williams, Artist and Fine Art lecturer at Canterbury Christchurch. The work of Beatrice and the following girls has been exhibited at The County Gallery, Sessions House, County Hall, Maidstone, ME14 1XQ from 29 October to 26 November. A selection of the works will be taken from Maidstone to be shown at Turner Contemporary Margate from 2nd December – 4th January 2015.

www.turnercontemporary.org/exhibitions/johndownton-display Please contact the school via our website: www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net, email: admissions@bro.gdst. net or telephone 020 8781 7000 to arrange a visit. twitter @bromleyhs

For your chance in winning please answer the following question and enter online at www.familieslondonkent.co.uk

What is the Fastest ride at THORPE PARK Resort? a. Storm Surge b. Mr Monkey’s Banana Ride c. Stealth For more information visit www.thorpepark.com Closing date 28th February 2015

4 | January - February 2015 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977 | 07792 006546

baby, baby, baby Monkey Music…

nurturing a lifetime of music

At Monkey Music they know that your time with your baby is precious and that the activities and classes that you choose should help your baby to blossom into a confident and happy child. Based on an exciting and progressive curriculum, their award winning classes are relaxing, entertaining and educational. Monkey Music is imaginatively taught by specialist teachers, many of whom are professional musicians and parents themselves, who gently encourage social and musical skills within a fun, stimulating and friendly environment.

To book your FREE introductory session please contact Monkey Music Dartford & Bexleyheath on 01322 862021, email us at bexley.dartford. monkeymusic.co.uk or visit www.facebook.com/pages/Monkey-MusicDartford-and-Bexleyheath

Sing and Sign is a fun, relaxed class to teach you simple signs through music, props, rhymes and song, which aids communication with your baby before they can talk. The key word in the sentence is spoken and signed eg milk, to support and promote speech development and understanding. Babies quickly pick up the signs, which allows them to communicate before speech, taking the guesswork out of parenting and reducing frustrations. Simple signs allow a baby to ask for a biscuit or drink, say they have pain, express how they feel, what they have seen and things that interest them. You will be amazed at what your baby is able to tell you before they can talk!

If you would like to feature in the next issue please call Mima on: 020 8466 6977 or 07792 006546.

Come and join us, find out more and enjoy our fun filled classes, which are recommended by experts. Classes designed for babies from 6 months to 2.5 years, run in Bromley, Beckenham, Petts Wood, Chislehurst, Otford and Sevenoaks. Contact Karen at singandsignbromley@ gmail.com or visit www.singandsign.com

45mm x 66mm landscape S50087v3_Bromley_AG_6.11.14

Little Fingers Little Fingers sensory baby classes are designed for little ones from birth to active crawlers. Classes stimulate little minds and exercise little bodies using multi-sensory play. Held in Bromley, Beckenham, Chislehurst and Orpington (with new venues opening soon). Classes are small, personal and above all fun (a great way to meet new friends).

www.littlefingers.co.uk Email info@littlefingers.co.uk for a free trial.

Samantha Taylor

photography Samantha Taylor specialises in child, baby and family photography.

Dress your baby like a royal with

Box Upon a Time A monthly or quarterly box full of hand picked clothes for your child with savings of up to 60% off.

Her passion for photography started when she was very young and developed over the years from a hobby into a successful career. Having her photos published on a number of family magazine front covers and recently collaborating with various kids’ clothing brands, she is not your average photographer. She genuinely loves her work and takes full pride in every job she does. Having children herself she knows how wonderful and important it is to capture all those precious memories. Time really does fly, and she loves to offer you the chance to look back at those beautiful milestones with a smile. Whether you’d like a classic studio shoot, a fun outdoors shoot or a photo session at your home, she offers it all. From newborn babies to the full family, adding her creativity to your photos is what she loves to do. She likes to make her sessions as fun and enjoyable as possible to create relaxed and natural shots. Her ability to capture moments in a natural way really does add to her unique style. Her reasonably priced photo sessions start at only £100. You can also purchase gift vouchers for photo sessions/ packages. She has a studio in Sevenoaks but also offers location shoots and her services include printing; large prints, canvases and photo books too. Sammytaylor0709@gmail.com www.samanthataylor-photography.com Telephone: 07979147477

With the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge expecting their second baby in April and prince George looking so handsome when he has made his public appearances, other parents will be delighted to know that they too can dress their little ones like a royal with the help of Box Upon a Time, an innovative subscription box service offering parents a brand new personal shopping experience. This unique concept allows parents of children aged 0-3 to receive a monthly or quarterly box of stylish clothing tailored specifically for their child which has been hand-picked by an experienced personal stylist and delivered direct to their door. Not only does each box contain the best premium childrenswear brands from across the globe but subscribers also make a saving of up to 60% off the retail value of the clothing. What more could you ask for? With over 60 childrenswear brands on board including Their Nibs, Marmalade & Mash, Fina Ejerique, David Charles, Point a la Ligne, Egg by Susan Lazar plus many more, Box Upon a Time is perfect for busy mums wanting to

Baby Casting & Fingerprint Jewellery www.angelcasts.co

discover new brands or those simply looking for an extra special gift. Getting your subscription started is simple, the parent or gift giver visits the Box Upon a Time website and fills out some information about the child’s age and sex and completes a quick fashion questionnaire to determine their fashion profile. Based on these results, Box Upon a Time’s team of stylists will hand-pick a personalised and beautifully curated selection of branded baby or children’s garments to suit the shopper’s style, which will be elegantly packed and delivered direct to the recipient’s door each month or quarter. There are three types of boxes to choose from as either a monthly or quarterly subscription or as a one-off gift. The Silver Box, (£29 per box) Offers 2 to 3 garments worth £50-£60 with up to 50% off retail prices. The Gold Box, (£49 per box) Offers 3 to 4 garments worth £80-£120, with up to 60% off retail prices. The Platinum Box, (£69 per box) Offers 3 to 5 garments from luxury brands worth £120-£170, with up to 60% off retail prices. To order your subscription box go to www.boxuponatime.co.uk Design your own pure silver keepsake jewellery, from bangles & cufflinks to necklaces & bracelets. I can take handprints, fingerprints, writing & drawings & transform them into beautiful personalised jewellery. You can also design every detail of your baby or toddler casting, from a beautiful array of frame & mount colours to intricate freestanding pieces. I offer bespoke design without the price tag. Appointments are fun & friendly & are held in Penge, London. The keepsakes are then carefully crafted & delivered back to you. Follow us on social media to get special offers & find out about local events. Web: www.angelcasts.co Tel: 07402 882542 Twitter: @angelcastshelp Facebook: /angelcastshelp

6 | January - February 2015 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977 | 07792 006546

settling your baby

into nursery Settling your baby into a new nursery can be an anxious experience for parents. Positive Steps have been around for almost 14 years. They have just opened their eighth nursery, in Sevenoaks. They have settled literally thousands of children into their nurseries very successfully and can offer some very helpful advice and re-assurance for parents about to go through the experience of leaving their child at nursery for the first time.

Preparation It really can help your child if he has spent time being around other children, which gets him/her used to sharing toys, taking turns and forming friendships. It can also help if he has spent some time away from you being looked after by a trusted person, even for short periods. This prepares you both for the first time that you leave him at nursery. If, however, he has not spent some time with other children or away from you, fear not as children often settle very quickly into their new experience.

Home from home At Positive Steps, they firmly believe in

creating a ‘home from home’ environment. Their ‘Positive Start’ settling in programme, based on the latest research into child development offers a bespoke programme, tailored to the needs of each individual child. Their experienced staff are fully trained and equipped to help your child settle as quickly as possible. Your ‘key person’ will start to build that bond from the first visit with your child and will gather all the key information needed, so that the transition runs as smoothly as possible.

Fun, fun, fun It’s important to remember that whilst your child is at nursery, she will be having lots of great fun. Whether it’s exploring ‘messy’ activities, playing outside in our fantastic allweather play area, developing IT skills, joining in with our super-exciting range of education programmes, or even having a cosy cuddle with a story in the soft area.

Added re-assurance To help you gain that re-assurance that your child will be settled in your absence, they have a room for parents to watch their child settle

in via CCTV. They offer as many settling in

visits as your child will need before they start with us. You can also telephone the nursery as many times as you like to see how your child is getting on and our open-door policy means you can come into the nursery whenever you fancy.

Finally… Their experienced management team are always on hand to give helpful advice, reassurance and make sure the experience of settling your child in is as smooth for you as it is for them… If you would like to visit or to learn more about how we settle children into nurseries, please call on 01732 450466, email: sevenoaks@positivestepsnurseries. co.uk, see website or visit our facebook page.

bsite e w r u ys a See o D n e

for Op

Promotional offer Book during your visit and save £260

education news Outstanding

Bexley 11+ exams...

11+ Mock Tests could help! Many children found the recent Bexley 11+ exams more challenging than the Kent test. Some 4997 children sat the Bexley test in 2013 with only about 30% (1493 children), deemed to be of selective ability. These pupils were all vying for a place in one of the four grammar schools in the borough with a total capacity of 786 places in Year 7. Essentially, only 15% of pupils who sat the Bexley 11+ test last year were successful. With this in mind, pupils must be very well prepared. Mock tests help to reduce the stress and anxiety for parents and children alike. By sitting a mock test, pupils not only get a taste of what to expect, but become more familiar with taking a test under formal conditions with complete strangers. Pupils will be expected to adhere to the strict timing structure of the exams. The Bexley 11+ is a unique exam, with four subjects examined in 2 papers. Pupils are expected to start and stop sections of the papers at short intervals. A taster mock test such as that run by 11+ Mock Test Masters is highly recommended as you also get detailed feedback on your child’s performance.

To book, please visit www.mocktestmasters.com or www.11plusmocktests.com.

inspection report for Breaside Preparatory School, Bromley SIS say that Breaside are “Outstanding” October 2014

Breaside Preparatory School in Bromley has been judged to provide “an outstanding quality of education”, following a recent inspection by the School Inspection Service. Breaside have been awarded ‘Outstanding’ across all areas, in October 2014, an amazing achievement for the school, who were also awarded this status by Ofsted in 2011.

VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS

11+ VERBAL REASONING VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS Expand your antonym and synonym knowledge Cards specifically created from recognised 11+ material

www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk

Open Days Jan Feb 2015 Breaside Preparatory School prepares pupils from 2½ to 11 years for both Grammar and Independent Senior Schools in a caring and nurturing environment. For more information or a personal tour of the School and Kindergarten please call 020 8460 0916 or email: info@breaside. co.uk. Visit our website to download the full report: breaside.co.uk

Bromley High School Final Year 6 Taster Session; Tuesday 13th January, 10.55 am – 2.45 pm. 11+ assessments; Saturday 17th January 2015 Scholarships and Bursaries available in the Senior School. Open Events 3rd March 2015 (May and October 2015 dates to be confirmed).

Please contact the school via our website: www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net; admissions@bro.gdst.net or Tel 020 8781 7000 to arrange a visit.

Get ready for back to school

with Explore Learning! Get the new school term off to a great start at Explore Learning. Our tailored courses are designed to support your child to become a confident and engaged learner. Explore Learning centres provide maths, English and 11+ tuition to 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Explore fits easily around family life; the centres are open 7 days a week, with children able to attend up to twice a week on a drop-in basis. Call your local centre to book a free trial, or visit www.explorelearning.co.uk.

Breaside School Breaside is committed to achieving the very best for each individual child from Kindergarten through to preparation for secondary transfer at the end of Year 6. Open Day Saturday 31st January 2015, 9.30am – 12noon.

If you are unable to attend please call 020 8460 0916 for a personal tour of the School. We will be delighted to welcome you to Breaside. info@breaside.co.uk www.breaside.co.uk

8 | January - February 2015 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977 | 07792 006546

Ad 87mm x 130mm high:Layout 1 10/12/2014 14:54 Page 1

Bromley High School Bromley High School is a selective independent school for 900 girls from 4-18, occupying a 25 acre parkland site in leafy Bickley, in Kent. Easily accessible by train from central London, it offers space to breathe with the convenience of the city on its doorstep. The school moved to its current site in the early 1980s and enjoys excellent resources for teaching and learning in all curriculum areas including extensive sports facilities which all pupils can access on the site. We aim to ensure that each girl’s intellectual potential is challenged and developed by inspirational teachers who have a capacity to develop a love of learning, a spirit of enquiry and an independence of mind. Headmistress: Mrs A M Drew BA (Hons), MBA (Dunelm) Bromley High School Blackbrook Lane, Bickley, Bromley, Kent BR1 2TW Contact details: 020 8781 7000; bhs@bro.gdst.net www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net / twitter @bromleyhs

BROMLEY HIGH SCHOOL Creating Opportunities For Girls Since 1883

LAST AVAILABLE

TASTER SESSIONS 2015 YEAR 6 FOR YEAR 7

Tuesday 13th January 2015, 10.55 am ‐ 2.45 pm Including Lunch (with buddy)

ASSESSMENTS 2015 4+ YEARS

Activities Session: Saturday, 10th January 2015 Group sessions: w/c 12th January 2015

11+ YEARS

Saturday 17th January 2015 Scholarships and Bursaries available (Senior School)

admissions@bro.gdst.netTel: 020 8781 7000 www.bromleyhigh.gdst. net

Getting your child’s

11+ skills right!

Places at Grammar and Independent schools are highly sought after in the London and Kent areas and each year the ability of students is rising considerably. When choosing your child’s 11+ educational provider, ask yourself the following key questions: 1. Are they qualified to tutor my child? 2. Does their curriculum reflect the changes that have recently taken place? 3. Will my child receive a personalised programme that will target their weaker areas? 4. Do they provide me and my child with the correct information and support? 5. Are they as passionate as I am about my child’s education? The answer to these questions should be a resounding YES! With its Award Winning tuition programmes and excellent customer service, KSOL is guaranteed to provide your child with the best 11+ education and you with the peace of mind that you’re on the right track with the right professionals. See KSOL’s fantastic New Year offers on our website. Visit www.ksol.co.uk or call on 0121 733 6558.

11+ Mock Tests

CEM style 11+ Bexley Tests

Orpington 11+ & Kent 11+ Tests

Dates: 20/2/15 Fri Half Term 28/3/15 Saturday 29/5/15 Fri Half Term

Dates: 18/2/15 Wed Half Term 01/4/15 Wed Easter Hols 27/5/15 Wed Half Term

Where: Hurst Community Centre, Hurst Place, Hurst Rd, Bexley DA5 3LH

Where: Crofton Halls, Crofton Road, Orpington BR6 8PR

Time: 1.30pm – 3.45pm

Time: 9.30am - 1pm

Fee: £22.50 per paper including detailed feedback and online software to practise.

BOOK NOW

www.mocktestmasters.com FEEDBACK includes ✔ Detailed report on your child’s ✔ Strengths & weaknesses ✔Access to mock test questions & answers ✔ Your child’s answer papers returned

If you would like to feature in the next issue please call Mima on: 020 8466 6977 or 07792 006546.

new year, new you New Year... New Career?

We’re

Fancy becoming a swimming teacher?

HERE TO HELP WITH A PLAN TO SUIT YOU

Teaching, Training and Developing New and Competent Swimming Instructors and School Teachers

Find out more at your local meeting

Level 1 Teachers Course 26 February, 5, 12, 19 and 26 March 9-5 pm. Suitable for 16 plus and first step to a teaching career. New.....Lifeguard Course RLSS NPLQ qualification February half term 9-5 pm. Check the website for more info: www. aquabilityttc.co.uk e: admin@aquabilityttc.co.uk t: 07802 660516

Ismini Phillips - Familys Magazine advert AW 2710914_AW.pdf

We’re here to help with a range of options to suit you. However you choose to eat, vegetarian, gluten-free, lower carb - it doesn’t matter. The Weight Watchers approach offers you different ways to eat, enjoy the food you love and achieve a healthy weight loss.

*Qualifying period and conditions apply. See website for details. Excludes Northern Ireland.

We offer intensive courses, courses over 4 weeks, weekends and day courses, allowing flexible learning for all. All at the Eric Liddell Sports Centre.

Eric Liddell Sports Centre, Eltham College, Grove Park Rd, Mottingham London SE9 4QF

Meetings | Online | Mobile

St. Alban’s Church 132 Barefoot Drive, Mottingham SE9 3BP Thursday 7:00pm Lynn Mackeonis 0345 677 7788 Christ Church 1 Fairfield Road, Beckenham BR3 3LD Monday 10:00am, 12:30pm, 6:00pm Saturday 9:45am Georgina Santos De Jesus 29/09/2014 07957 633 54221:18

Crofton Halls Crofton Road, Kent BR6 8PR Monday 9:30am Tuesday 9:30am, 11:30am Sunday 5:30pm Suki Chahil 07809 399 416 The Spa at Beckenham Beckenham Road, Beckenham BR3 4PF Sunday 6:30pm Sue Davies 0345 677 7788

City Gate Building 2 Beckenham Road, Beckenham BR3 1AA Thursday 7:00pm Georgina Santos De Jesus 07957 633 542 Goals Soccer Centre Elmers End Road, Elmers End, Beckenham BR3 4EJ Tuesday 10:00am Georgina Santos De Jesus 07957 633 542

For more local meetings visit weightwatcherslocal.co.uk

0345 677 7788 text LOCAL + postcode to 62223**

£10 pass ** Standard network charges apply.

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844 C90011527 †Purchase Monthly Pass in your first Weight Watchers meeting before 28 February 2015 and pay £10 for the first month upon presentation of this coupon. Note that if you purchase Monthly Pass without a coupon, you will be charged £16.95 for the first month. Monthly fee (currently £21.45) will be payable for all subsequent months until you cancel. Fees subject to change. Available in England, Scotland or Wales. Coupon cannot be transferred, combined with other offers, exchanged for cash or used with At Work. Activation needs to be completed on our website. Available to individuals aged 18 years or older.

Energy Healing

CMY

If you would like to feature in the next issue please call Mima on: 020 8466 6977 or 07792 006546.

REIKI translated as universal life force energy, is a method of activating your own internal healing energy to release blockages that may have physical or emotional sources and which are resulting in physical symptoms of all kinds, low energy, depression, feelings of being out of balance or disconnected. Receiving Reiki treatments should help your inner energy, known as Ki in Japan, Chi in China and Prana in India, to flow amoothly, to those parts of the body that require it.

Call 0774 896 3828 for more information.

10 | January - February 2015 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977 | 07792 006546

food for

sharing Roast lamb with redcurrant glaze Fancy some gravy? For an extra ProPoints value of 1 each, make up some gravy using 2 tsp lamb gravy granules per person. 12 ProPoints per serving 950g (2lb 2oz) leg or half leg of lamb on the bone, trimmed of all visible fat 1 garlic clove, sliced thinly 2 tbsp redcurrant jelly 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint 1 tsp Dijon mustard 900g (2lb) new potatoes, halved if large 480g (1lb 1oz) frozen peas

Aquability Teacher Training Centre New Years Resolution fancy a change of Career? Why not become a swim teacher Level 1 Teaching Aquatics course starts 26 February and every Thursday for 5 weeks 9-5 or train as a Lifeguard - course being run in February Half Term. They are a swimming teachers’ training school accredited by ASA Awarding Body and courses are flexible and run throughout the year. If you are starting out as a new swimming teacher or up skilling as a swimming teacher, they are available to teach, support and motivate you to achieve great success in your career as a coach. Visit the website www.aquabilityttc.co.uk for more information.

new year

new classes! Do you spend every New Year’s Eve making New Year resolutions that you never keep? Instead why not try something new? Exercise creates a way of life that brings you relaxation and happiness as the body learns to realign, strengthen and calm itself through what it loves most – MOVEMENT!

the oven to gas mark 5/190 C 1 Preheat or fan 170 C. Pierce the leg all over with o

the tip of a sharp knife and insert the slices of garlic into the holes. Season well and roast for 30 minutes per 450g – this joint should take just over 1 hour.

Combine the redcurrant jelly, mint and mustard. Fifteen minutes before the lamb has finished roasting, baste it carefully with the redcurrant marinade. Return it to the oven for the remainder of the cooking time, then allow it to stand for 15 minutes before carving.

Meanwhile, cook the new potatoes until tender and steam the peas. Thinly slice the lamb and serve with the vegetables.

www.weightwatcherslocal.co.uk

Human beings were built to move so why not join a new class at Ismini Phillips Pilates & Body Movement Studio, Chislehurst and see your aches and pains melt away. It’s never too late, and you’re never too old to start! We have new teachers and new classes in arc barrel, bone health & balance, legs, bums & tums, mat Pilates, booty barre and much more. Call Ismini on 07711 906750, email Ismini@isminiphillips.com. Full timetable at www.isminiphillips.com

Pharmaton Vitality We all know what it’s like to feel physically and mentally exhausted from a busy day at work or with the kids and coping with everything can be an everyday battle. Did you know that taking Pharmaton Vitality capsules helps reduce temporary tiredness and restore vitality when taken daily, and can be taken for a period of twelve weeks? Pharmaton Vitality capsules are packed with vitamins, minerals and the unique Ginseng G115 that’s clinically proven to relieve fatigue and also aid mental and physical wellbeing. Pharmaton Vitality capsules are also supported by over 30 clinical trials and studies. Try Pharmaton Vitality Capsules, to feel the positive difference. (Licensed medicine). For the relief of fatigue. Always read the label.

clubs & classes Fly off this February…

Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools

with our Superhero

holiday courses

TRIAL AVA

CELEBRATING 23 YEARS!

Ages 2, 3 and 4 (and up to 7yrs in our Beckenham After School SportsClub). For classes in Bromley, Beckenham contact: angela@micro-sport.co.uk | 01689 600992

1995

EK TWO WE ILABLE!

Real sport for under 5’s A fun and educational introduction to sports: soccer, tennis, hockey, cricket, rubgy and much more. We have a long proven record of success with trained adult coaches.

. .Established ........

Class es in:

3–18 years

Seven Chisle oaks Bexle hurst yheat h

For classes in Sevenoaks, Pembury, Orpington, Dunton Green, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells contact: jnoble@micro-sport.co.uk | 07863 330200

www.micro-sport.co.uk

020 8447 4530 www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk Perform Drama School is back with another exciting February Half Term Holiday Course for 4-7 year olds. We’ve always known that West London children are Superheroes, but next February they really can be trained up at the Perform Superhero School from 16th 18th February 2015. After completing some specially designed Superhero training, the children will go on a thrilling adventure culminating in a mini superhero musical show on the last day for friends and family. With costumes, live music, scripts, improvisation and dance, they’ll have an amazing time making new friends and developing their social skills along the way. The cost of the course is £100 (with a 25% discount for siblings and reductions for groups). Book by 31 January and receive 10% off when you quote FAMI310115. For more details go to www.perform.org.uk/classescourses/holiday-courses/ superheroes

Lots to celebrate this month with 20 years of delivering high quality bespoke swim lessons. Swimming is an essential life skill - so make sure you get it right!

Easter Intensive course 30 March - 2 April : 9.15 - 10.45 am Classes : Mon 16th - Wed 18th February 10.00am - 12.00pm. Sevenoaks: The Parish Church of St Luke, Eardley Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1XT To book please contact: Company: Perform Phone: 0845 400 4000 Email: enquiries@perform.org.uk

Swimming Lessons that last a lifetime Visit our website www.aquakids.co.uk for blogs, testimonials and more information

If you would like to feature in the next issue please call Mima on: 020 8466 6977 or 07792 006546 or email editor@familieslondonkent.co.uk

12 | January - February 2015 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977 | 07792 006546

on your travels A short break with a difference at a

Safari Park in Normandy

A short break with a difference at a

Safari Park in Normandy African themed lodges with some

wild neighbours!

www.fourseasonsfrance.co.uk 0113 256 4373

Looking for something different for your next holiday? Something exciting and educational for the kids? What about a short trip across the Chanel to Normandy, then onto the plains of Africa? Sounds impossible but that’s what’s on offer when you book a Safari break with Four Seasons France (www.fourseasonsfrance. co.uk). Four nights in August in self-catering timber lodges, with wild animals close by, costs a family of up to six £575 including ferry crossing. Wake to the roar of lions, watch rhinos as you eat your croissants and discover over 100 different species of wild animal in the neighbouring Safari Park. African themed lodges with some wild neighbours! www.fourseasonsfrance.co.uk 0113 2564373

High fliers

The Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts is taking their fantastic performing arts experience to Savannah Beach Hotel in Barbados this year. In a unique collaboration with Virgin Holidays, children aged 4-16 will be able to sing, dance and act in PQA’s action packed workshops while you relax on the beach. ‘I’m really excited about working with Virgin Holidays on the launch of the Pauline Quirke Academy at Savannah Beach in Barbados,’ said Pauline Quirke. ‘Both parties know more than anyone how important it is to offer fun activities for young people while they are on their holidays, and our fabulous workshops do exactly that. Families will go away with some brilliant holiday memories as the sessions not only build young peoples’ confidence, but they also bring out the performer in everyone whilst enjoying the sunshine!’

Chilly Powder

in the sun

To explore the Swiss Alps in summer, nothing beats the style and variety of offer from Chilly Powder. With hotel rooms and large, self-catered chalets, Paul and Francesca Eyre’s expertise provides a beautiful Alpine experience, with crèche and kids club available for parents who need a bit of time to themselves and fabulous dinners to round off the day. The local, summer ‘Multi Pass’ is available at only 1Euro per day when you stay at Chilly Powder and this gives instant access to 22 lifts in the Portes du Soleil area around Morzine, 850km of walking paths and 10 mountain lakes! This means there are endless possibilities for the family to enjoy the beautiful Alps in summer.

www.chillypowder.com

Workshops have been skilfully crafted by PQA’s creative team which includes an educational element tied into the colourful history of the Caribbean, regaling tales of everything from local pirates to the ghosts of Savannah Beach, and culminating in a performance of their very own PQA show. The classes are free of charge to children staying at Savannah Beach. Book at www.virginholidays. co.uk or call 0844 557 3859. Find your nearest Pauline Quirke Academy at www.pqacademy.com or call 0845 6732 022 Contact Lucy Beirne Lucy.Beirne@ pqacademy.com 01494 448107

out & about Days out Winter Tours Learn about the people, history and life of Sissinghurst on these guided tours. 11am, 12noon, 1, 2 & 3pm. From 3 January to 13 March. Sissinghurst Castle, Biddenden Rd, Cranbrook, Kent, TN17 2AB. 01580 710701 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sissinghurstcastle

Winter Holidays Get out and about this winter, put on your wellies, coats and scarves to join us for daily activities and fun, there’s plenty to do whatever the weather:help our entertainers feed our animals, hunt for 9 hidden wooden reindeer and win a yummy prize, take a trip on our tractor ride, meet some of our cute farmyard friends in our cuddle corner and explore our historic farmhouses. Adults £5.55 Concessions £4.95 Children (3-15) £4.35 Under 3’s FREE. From 2 January to 4 January. Kent Life Heritage Farm Park, Lock Lane, Sandling, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 3AU 01622 763936 www.kentlife.org.uk/discover-kent-life/ whats-on

Winter Walk Our walks will highlight seasonal farm activities such as hedging, lambing, the history of the farm and how it works. The walk will take about two hours. Meet at the Green Education building at 10 am. The walk will take about two hours. Please wear stout footwear and appropriate clothing for a winter walk. As we will be going through the fields we regret that the walk is not suitable for buggies or those with restricted mobility. in the event of bad weather the walks may be cancelled. The walks are free, but donations are welcome. 10am -18 January. 020 8319 8900 www.woodlandsft@aol.com The Woodlands Farm Trust, 331 Shooters Hill, Welling, DA16 3RP 020 8319 8900 www.thewoodlandsfarmtrust.org/whats-on

Christmas Craft Fair Find gifts with a difference at our Christmas Craft Fair. Over 45 stallholders will be selling a selection of traditional crafts and contemporary gifts, including handicrafts, jewellery and homemade preserves. 10am – 4pm. From 15 November to 16 November. Hall Place and Gardens,

Bourne Road, Bexley, DA5 1PQ. 01322 621238 www.bexleyheritagetrust.org.uk/events/ christmas-craft-fair-3/

Roast and Roam Blow away the winter cobwebs with a guided walk followed by a 2-course lunch. 11am / £25. From 25 January to 22 February. Bodiam Castle, Robertsbridge, East Sussex, TN32 5UA 01580 830436 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/bodiam-castle

February Half Term family fun Have fun outside with our 50 Things activity pack, and craft activities inside. 10am - 3pm / 50p for activity pack. From 14 February to 22 February. Ightham Mote, Mote Road, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 0NT 01732 810378 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ightham-mote

Half Term Shrovetide fun Join the Bodiam household and help to prepare a feast or play mob football with the servants. 11am - 4pm / Trail £2. From 14 February to 22 February. Bodiam Castle, Robertsbridge, East Sussex, TN32 5UA 01580 830436 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/bodiam-castle

Have a perfect day out with Thomas the Tank Engine Thomas the Tank Engine will be pulling into Tenterden Station, bringing some of his favourite friends too! Don’t miss all the activities with Uncle Myles, Charlie the Clown and Billy the Magic Rabbit. There will also be face painting, roundabout rides and a bouncy castle. The Fat Controller will open the gates at 10am each day and trains depart from Tenterden at 10.20am, 10.55am, 11.50am, 12.25pm, 1.20pm, 1.55 and 2.50pm. Please arrive approx 30 minutes before your train departs. / £17 for adults, children over 18 months to 15 years inclusive are £13 and a family ticket for 2 adults and 2 children are £51.50. First Class has a supplement of £4 per person. From 14 February to 22 February. Kent & East Sussex Railway , Tenterden Town Station, Station Road, Tenterden, Kent, TN30 6HE 01580 765155 www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk/ kentandeastsussexrailway

Secrets And Spies Calling all super sleuths, secret agents and investigators! Sharpen your detective skills with hands-on training in cracking codes and clues. Bring your kids to Mission HQ to learn vital skills, uncover real secrets, try on wartime uniforms and to set off on your half term adventure. 10am - 4pm. From 14 February to 22 February. Dover Castle, Castle Hill , Dover, Kent, CT16 1HU. www.english-heritage.org.uk/ daysout/events/secrets-and-spies

Theatre fun The Sound of Music One of the greatest musicals of all time returns to the stage in a magnificent new production, which opens at the Churchill Theatre, Bromley and then moves to the Mayflower Theatre, Southampton to commence a major national tour. From 15 January to 17 January. Churchill Theatre Bromley, High Street, Bromley, Kent, BR1 1HA. 0844 871 7620 www.atgtickets.com

Sing-A-Long A Sound of Music Having started in the UK back in 1999, the Sing-a-Long-a Sound of Music show has now become a worldwide hit, playing to packed houses across the globe! Sing-aLong-a Sound of Music is a screening of the classic Julie Andrews film musical now celebrating its 50th Birthday in glorious, fullscreen technicolour, complete with subtitles so that you can sing along! Includes live host, interactive fun pack and fancy dress competition. 7pm / Tickets £16.00* Premier Card £2.00 off Under 18s £2.00 off. Groups 10+ £2.00 off *A £1.50 per ticket booking fee applies. Fee-free for groups and Premiere Card members. 25 January. The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1ED 01322 220000. www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

Swan Lake Moscow City Ballet is currently at its outstanding artistic best. Brimming with some of Russia’s best young dancers, outstanding principals, stunning soloists and a sublime corps de ballet, all underpinned by the dynamic vitality of a live orchestra. Swan Lake is a signature piece of their entire repertoire. 7.30pm Wed and Sat Matinee 2.30pm. From 20 January to 24 January. The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1ED 01322 220000.

14 | January - February 2015 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977 | 07792 006546

Sing-A-Long-A Frozen Disney’s Frozen gets the full Sing-a-long-a treatment! Who hasn’t been singing Let It Go and wanting to dress up as Elsa! Join in the full interactive experience with a screening of the film with lyrics on screen and sing along with Elsa and Anna. A live host will show you how to use your interactive fun pack and judge the fancy dress competition. 11am and 3pm / Tickets £15.50* Under 18s £10.50* Family Offer – 4 Tickets £46.00* Family Offer – 3 Tickets £33.00* (1 adult only). *A £1.50 per ticket booking fee applies.

Fee-free for groups and Premiere Card members. 25 January. The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1ED 01322 220000. www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

Milkshake! Party Party Live Starring some of your milkshake favourites this brand-new musical spectacular is sure to have children up on their feet and singing at the top of their voices! Joining this fantastic show will be two milkshake presenters, who will take us on a fun milkshake adventure; bound to dazzle and delight! The show features brand new songs, classic favourites and funky dance routines, plus plenty of laughter, bags of audience interaction and bucket loads of fun for all the family too! 1pm and 3.30pm / Tickets £13.50* Concessions £11.50* Family offer - 4 Tickets £46.00* or £44.00* if booked by Mon 8th Dec *A £1.50 per ticket booking fee applies. Fee-free for groups and Premiere Card members. 8 February. The Orchard Theatre, Dartford, The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1ED 01322 220000. www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

by Sergei Prokofiev Conductor: Pablo Urbina Narrator: John Savournin Rosslyn Hill Chapel 3 Pilgrim Place Hampstead High St NW3 1NG

Nearly new sales Children’s Nearly New Sale Nearly new sale in partnership with St.Augustines children’s centre. Free parking, free admittance and good buggy access.10am - 12 noon. 2 February. Belvedere Community Centre, Mitchell Close, Belvedere, DA17 6AA 020 8311 5550. belvederecommunitycentre.org.uk Children’s nearly new sale. Free parking, free admittance and good buggy access. 10am - 12 midday. 25 February. Hurst Community Centre, Hurst Road, Bexley, Kent, DA5 3LH 330 9910/07961 331 223. www.hurstcommunitycentre.co.uk

Arts & crafts National Nest Box Week Build your own nest boxes and bird feeders for your garden. 1 - 2.30pm / £6 per person, £10 for two people. From 18 February to 19 February. Sissinghurst Castle, Biddenden Rd, Cranbrook, Kent, TN17 2AB 01580 710701. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sissinghurst-castle

Family Mondays Join in with a host of craft activities and a chance to complete some of the 50 Things. 11am - 3pm. From 16 February to 16 April. Knole House, Sevenoaks, Sevenoaks , Kent , TN15 0RP 01732 462100 www.knowlecountryhouse.co.uk

Let’s go fly a kite Make your own kite to fly. 10am-4pm / £2 per kite. From 14 February to 22 February. Scotney Castle, Lamberhurst, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN3 8JN. 01892 893820 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/scotney-castle

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