Families-LSB issue 58: Sept-Oct 2014 by Families Magazine

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Clubs & Classes

London-Surrey Borders

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Back to School

For loads of local information for families in Epsom and Ewell, Sutton, Croydon and nearby areas.

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

Issue 58 Sept-Oct 2014

Confidence, team work, self motivation, numeracy skills, pupil voice, responsibility, healthy lifestyle, employability skills

Ask us about training days & healthy snacks 07767 313394

info@pupilsprofit.com

Get off to the best possible start and

Lead the Race

OPEN MORNING Saturday 27 September 9.30 - 11.30 a.m ISI Early Years Inspection - December 2013

‘OUTSTANDING‛

Includes Boys’ Reception and Treetops Nursery ‘Boys’ education at its best.’ ‘The clever choice for Croydon daughters.’ ‘Excellent nursery provision. To read articles in full please see links on our website - www.cumnorhouse.com

For more information please contact the registrar Tel: 020 8660 3445 or email: registrar@cumnorhouse.com

Enrolling now! Call your local school for details

Cheam Coulsdon Croydon Epsom Merton Park Mitcham Shirley Sutton Worcester Park

020 8773 4242 0845 078 0805 0845 265 7083 01372 730 363 020 8942 3502 020 8942 3502 020 8949 1116 01737 270 060 020 8773 4242

Age 4-18

Fun, confidence-building, educational classes in acting, singing and dance.

www.stagecoach.co.uk

QUALITY TRAINING

ESTABLISHED 1988 600 SCHOOLS NATIONWIDE

News & Views

Confidence, team work, self motivation, numeracy skills, pupil voice, responsibility, healthy lifestyle, employability skills

le a S Ask us about training days & healthy snacks 07767 313394

info@pupilsprofit.com

Get off to the best possible start and

Lead the Race

OPEN MORNING Saturday 27 September 9.30 - 11.30 a.m

r o F

ISI Early Years Inspection - December 2013

‘OUTSTANDING‛

Includes Boys’ Reception and Treetops Nursery

‘Boys’ education at its best.’ ‘The clever choice for Croydon daughters.’ ‘Excellent nursery provision.

To read articles in full please see links on our website - www.cumnorhouse.com

For more information please contact the registrar Tel: 020 8660 3445 or email: registrar@cumnorhouse.com

Enrolling now! Call your local school for details

Cheam Coulsdon Croydon Epsom Merton Park Mitcham Shirley Sutton Worcester Park

020 8773 4242 0845 078 0805 0845 265 7083 01372 730 363 020 8942 3502 020 8942 3502 020 8949 1116 01737 270 060 020 8773 4242

Age 4-18

Fun, confidence-building, educational classes in acting, singing and dance.

www.stagecoach.co.uk

QUALITY TRAINING

ESTABLISHED 1988 600 SCHOOLS NATIONWIDE

business for sale Are you ✔ well organised? ✔ hard working? ✔ well motivated? Are you looking for an opportunity to ✔ provide your community with a valuable service? ✔ develop a profitable business further? ✔ be part of a wider group behind a successful brand? Would you like to • work from home? • organise your working life around your family? • be part of a national group of magazines providing information about local events, activities and services? Could you do a job which involves ✔ selling advertising to local family-friendly businesses? ✔ compiling editorial of interest to local parents and carers? ✔ some admin and the need to stick to deadlines for reporting and completing work? Families London Surrey Borders magazine is a franchise of Families magazine and covers Epsom, Sutton, Croydon and surrounding areas. The magazine was re-launched in 2009 and is now for sale to the right person. Could it be you? Call 0208 669 5187 or email: editor@families-LSB.co.uk for more details.

Are you looking for a change? I am offering the opportunity to buy a healthy, profitable business focussed around children and parenting.

Are you fed up with the commute and want to work from home and spend more time with your family? Are the children growing up and you find you have a bit more time but need to generate some income?

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

Back to School

Clubs & Classes

London-Surrey Borders

For a

e Hug

local On What's g listin

Ple

local On 's What ing list

Magazine business for sale — Work-from-home opportunity e EEke on FRase ta

e Hug

Issue 58 Sept-Oct 2014

For loads of local information for families in Epsom and Ewell, Sutton, Croydon and nearby areas.

London-Surrey Borders

For a

Back to School

Clubs & Classes

e EEke on FeRase ta

For loads of local information for families in Epsom and Ewell, Sutton, Croydon and nearby areas.

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

Issue 58 Sept-Oct 2014

Confidence, team work, self motivation, numeracy skills, pupil voice, responsibility, healthy lifestyle, employability skills

le a S Ask us about training days & healthy snacks 07767 313394

info@pupilsprofit.com

Get off to the best possible start and

Lead the Race

OPEN MORNING Saturday 27 September 9.30 - 11.30 a.m

For

ISI Early Years Inspection - December 2013

‘OUTSTANDING‛

Includes Boys’ Reception and Treetops Nursery

‘Boys’ education at its best.’ ‘The clever choice for Croydon daughters.’ ‘Excellent nursery provision.

To read articles in full please see links on our website - www.cumnorhouse.com

For more information please contact the registrar Tel: 020 8660 3445 or email: registrar@cumnorhouse.com

Enrolling now! Call your local school for details

Cheam Coulsdon Croydon Epsom Merton Park Mitcham Shirley Sutton Worcester Park

020 8773 4242 0845 078 0805 0845 265 7083 01372 730 363 020 8942 3502 020 8942 3502 020 8949 1116 01737 270 060 020 8773 4242

Age 4-18

Fun, confidence-building, educational classes in acting, singing and dance.

QUALITY TRAINING

can take it forward to the next level.

Families London Surrey Borders prints 21,000 copies six times each year targeted at parents of children from 0 – 12 years in the Epsom, Sutton, Croydon, Banstead and NE Surrey areas. The business is a full, profitable going concern, and includes all forward bookings; social media accounts; web presence, distribution network and so on.

Head Office in Streatham www.Families-LSB.co.uk provides editorial material as This is the perfect well as training for over 40 magazines in the opportunity to run your own business. Five group as well as organising the annual years ago, I was where you are now and I took meeting of all Families editors. They also on this business. Despite never owning my contribute some regular income. own business before, I’ve grown it and built it into one of the leading parenting magazines There’s a bit more detail in the advert (left), in the area. but to get the full story on this great opportunity to make a positive difference to Now that my children are off to University your life, call Izabella on 0208 669 5187 and our family circumstances have changed. I have decided — reluctantly—to sell the or email editor@families-LSB.co.uk franchise for Families London Surrey * We suggest that anyone takes legal advice before Borders. I’m looking for the right buyer who buying a franchise or business www.stagecoach.co.uk

ESTABLISHED 1988

600 SCHOOLS NATIONWIDE

Established MAD Academy franchise for sale. MAD Academy – Epsom, has been running successfully for 6 years, but sadly, it’s time for Karen to move on to pastures new.

“It has been the very best time of my working life,” said Karen, “and it is with reluctance that I will pass the baton on to a new franchisee. I have loved the opportunity to share in the very special early-years music based experiences of children and their families. It has been an honour to be celebrate so many children’s birthdays too” The educational sessions are fun, funky, physical music and movement classes for babies and children up to 5 years. The business currently operates classes in Ashtead, Epsom, Effingham and Tadworth but there is considerable opportunity for additional venues within the area and for future expansion beyond. They also run popular children’s birthday parties and are regularly invited into Sure Start children’s centres, nurseries and playgroups to further share the MADness. The business sale includes a large selection of props, musical instruments and equipment for use in the classes, customer lists, long established quality venue bookings all with free parking, refined advertising schedule and a highly respected reputation in the area. Class guidance will be given and head office provides business training. If you are energetic and passionate about working with children and think you are MAD enough, then contact Karen by email karen.morgan@madacademy.com or call 01372 210378 to find out more. * We suggest that anyone takes legal advice before buying a franchise or business

Labels4Kids now available from John Lewis

Also look out for our fabulous competition on YouTube.”

John Lewis are offering the sale of name tapes in store and online from labelling specialists, Labels4Kids. In addition Labels4Kids have introduced a great range of back to school bags for smaller children.

They say, “Business is so busy this year we suggest you get in early to place your orders.

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 2 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

You can win an iPad and starter vinyl pack at https://www.youtube. com/user/labelsforkids. It’s as easy as filming a shot clip on back to school tips and labelling on your phone then posting it on YouTube in reply to the video. www.labels4kids.com/fam

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

September October 2014

News & Views e Hug

local On s What'ting lis

Ple

Back to School

Clubs & Classes

London-Surrey Borders

For a

e EEke on FRase ta

For loads of local information for families in Epsom and Ewell, Sutton, Croydon and nearby areas.

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

Issue 58 Sept-Oct 2014

Confidence, team work, self motivation, numeracy skills, pupil voice, responsibility, healthy lifestyle, employability skills

Ask us about training days & healthy snacks 07767 313394

info@pupilsprofit.com

Get off to the best possible start and

Lead the Race

OPEN MORNING Saturday 27 September 9.30 - 11.30 a.m ISI Early Years Inspection - December 2013

‘OUTSTANDING‛

For more information please contact the registrar Tel: 020 8660 3445 or email: registrar@cumnorhouse.com

Enrolling now! Call your local school for details

Cheam Coulsdon Croydon Epsom Merton Park Mitcham Shirley Sutton Worcester Park

020 8773 4242 0845 078 0805 0845 265 7083 01372 730 363 020 8942 3502 020 8942 3502 020 8949 1116 01737 270 060 020 8773 4242

Cover photo: from BHS

www.bhs.co.uk

Age 4-18

Fun, confidence-building, educational classes in acting, singing and dance.

www.stagecoach.co.uk

Editor: Izabella Shaw 0208 669 5187 editor@Families-LSB.co.uk www.Families-LSB.co.uk

QUALITY TRAINING

ESTABLISHED 1988 600 SCHOOLS NATIONWIDE

‘Families London-Surrey Borders’ is part of a group of magazines

headed by ‘Families South West’ established in 1990. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care preparing this magazine, but

the publishers and its agents cannot be held responsible for loss

or damage, or for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of

the contents nor for any consequence. Colour transparencies and

any other original materials submitted are sent at owners risk and, whilst every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liability for any loss or damage.

IN THIS ISSUE News and views . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 – 3 Clubs, classes and activities . . . . . . 4 – 6 Clubs and classes directory . . . . . 7 – 11 Parents – Know your rights . . . . . . . 12 Active & healthy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Pre-birth movement that isn’t the NCT . 13 School open days . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Encouraging young readers . . . . . . . 15 New school curriculum – parents’ guide 16 Education news . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-19 Keeping a healthy dialogue with school 20 Schools Directory . . . . . . . . . . 21 – 23 What’s On for families . . . . . . . 24 – 26 Day out ideas – South Bank . . . . . . . . . 24 Day out ideas – Bank of England Museum 26

What’s On – Halloween special . . . 27 – 29 What’s On – Theatres . . . . . . . . 30 – 31 What’s on – Holiday clubs & classes . . 31 Classified advertisers . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Audition for the National Children’s Orchestra The National Children’s Orchestra is holding auditions at venues across the country, with local auditions scheduled as follows.

• London (Marble Arch) 8 & 9 Oct • London (GSMD) 12 Oct & 19 Oct • Richmond (Surrey) 21 & 22 Oct The Orchestra for ages 7 – 13 gives talented children the chance to train with top musicians and perform at some of the biggest concert venues in the UK. Children are asked to prepare two pieces of music of up to five minutes each for their audition. The chosen pieces should show contrast in speed and style. You do not have to have taken any exams. After the audition you could be invited to become a full member of the Orchestra or an associate member. Full members will be asked to join one of the NCO’s 6 orchestras: a training orchestra; under ten; under 11; under 12; under 13; and the main children’s orchestra. Associate members will be invited to attend rehearsal sessions and audition again the following year for full membership. The closing date for applications is September 26 but apply immediately for the best chance of getting your choice of audition venue. For full dates and locations visit www.nco.org, or call 01934 418855, or download the guide: www.nco.org.uk/images/uploads/NCO_App%20Form%20%2714_Hyperlinked_Lores(1).pdf

Families Magazine is now Tweeting. We’re at @FamiliesLSB. Why not follow us? Our tweets can tell you whenever we update our site with competitions, news items, and when we update the What’s On section of our site with new venues and things to do. We also post updates and stories at Facebook.com/FamiliesLSB. Again, whenever we get latebreaking news or web-only competitions, we can let you know about them. But only if you ‘Like’ our page.

@FamiliesLSB

Green spaces in Epsom & Ewell named as some of the best in Britain Epsom Common, Ewell Court Park, Alexandra Recreation Ground, Rosebery Park and Nonsuch Park are among a recordbreaking 1,476 parks and green spaces to receive prestigious Green Flag Awards.

The five green spaces that were put forward for judging for the award were selected as representative of the different green spaces in Epsom & Ewell: • Epsom Common: a local nature reserve • Ewell Court Park: a small green space with some historic features • Alexandra Recreation Ground: a sports ground • Rosebery Park: a formal town centre park • Nonsuch Park: a green space run in partnership with the London Borough of Sutton

Confidence Building Fun Try a Free Drama Class mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 3 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

Join us on Twitter and Facebook

Watch your child’s self-esteem soar with our weekly classes for 4–12s Child development is at the heart of everything we do. So our drama, dance and singing sessions will boost your child’s confidence, improve their concentration and give them an outlet to have fun. Call 0845 400 1273 or visit perform.org.uk for a free class at your nearest venue.

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

September October 2014

Clubs, Classes & Activities Is your child preparing for an art scholarship? Michaela’s Art Classes can help prepare children for an art scholarship test and provide guidance for the creation of a portfolio.

The Harlequin Theatre & Cinema in Redhill is looking for dancers aged 8 – 12 years for this year’s pantomime, Beauty and the Beast.

Michaela, who runs weekly and holiday art classes for children, will be running a short weekend course dedicated for children who are preparing for an art scholarship. The course will be run over three Saturday afternoons from 18th October to 1st November.

Auditions will be held at The Harlequin on Sunday 21 September 2014 with registration at 1pm. Candidates should not be taller than 4’6” (1m 37cm) and must live within 30 minutes’ travel of the theatre.

The course aims to help children improve their still life drawing skills and create an artwork under the guidance of a professional artist. Only 7 children per class, so book early to avoid disappointment. Classes are held at 16 Longdown Lane North, Epsom, KT17 3JQ. For more information please contact Michaela Suleman on: 07800 638 959; or visit www.michaelasuleman.com or Email: art@michaelasuleman.com

Audition for Beauty and the Beast

Dancers must commit to rehearsals and performances from Mon 1 Dec until Sun 4 Jan 2015. All dancers must attend regular dance lessons in Ballet, Tap and Jazz, following a recognised examination syllabus such as ISTD/RAD or IDTA.

www.michaelasuleman.com

Further details from the Box Office on 01737 276500.

Drama, Dance & Singing for 4-8 year olds

The only drama, dance and singing workshops for 4-8 year olds that focuses on helping develop children’s confidence, co-ordination, communication and concentration skills. Perform will give your child amazing social skills and will be the best fun of their week. This September to December, Perform children will be travelling through space on an interplanetary adventure with The Space Queen and The Little Green Alien. On their way they’ll eat cheese with The Man on the Moon, gravity groove with The Sparkly Spaceman, and visit Venus with the beautiful Princess Star. Their mission is to confront and stop The Cruel Commander, who plans to destroy Planet Earth…but will they stop him on time? Guaranteed to be the best fun that your child has all week. Any interested 4 – 8 year old can try out the classes by attending a Free Trial Session. Classes in Caterham, Dulwich, Ewell, Purley, Wimbledon. To book a free trial session, call 0845 400 1273 or go to www.perform.org.uk

BANSTEAD, CLAYGATE, EWELL AND ESHER AREAS E: banstead.claygate@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01932 223 309 EPSOM, OXSHOTT, BOCKETTS FARM PARK AND LEATHERHEAD AREAS E: leatherhead.dorking@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01483 841 303 SOUTH CROYDON, CATERHAM AND PURLEY AREAS E: southcroydon.caterham@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 0203 251 1061

Group discounts for NCT members when 3+ people join together at the same time.

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 4 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

September October 2014

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A Christmas Carol at Dramabuds This Autumn dramabuds will be bringing Charles Dickens ‘A Christmas Carol’ to life at their Full Blooms Classes for 4 – 7 years and Budding Actors classes for 7 – 10 years. Classes take place in Carshalton on Saturday mornings and Tuesday after School in Carshalton Beeches and fees are less than £100 per term. By popular request they have added Frozen to the collection of dramabuds party themes. Weekend dates in September, October are booking up fast. To discuss your party call dramabuds on 020 8669 2355.

Futsal Focus Academy grows Futsal is a Brazilian-style variation of football played indoors with 5 a-side using a smaller, weighted ball with reduced bounce.

The Futsal Focus Academy (FFA) is launching 21 new Futsal academies in September 2014 in Surrey and London. Join FFA to play indoors and receive a free trial class, free holiday camps, play in leagues and tournaments and progress to Elite and Pro. Classes currently take place in Old Coulsdon, Banstead, Tadworth, Ashtead, Epsom and South Croydon, With new classes starting all the time, call 0844 318 1700 or go to www.sportsfocusuk.com

New Principal for Epsom Stagecoach Schools

For classes of pure MADness, join MAD Academy

Birthday parties too!

Classes in the Sutton Area Contact Pauline on 01372 372 942 email: pauline.llewellyn@madacademy.com Classes in the Croydon Area Contact Debbie on 01689 844 848 email: debbie.mason@madacademy.com Classes in Ashtead, Epsom, Tadworth & Effingham Contact Karen on 01372 210 378 email: karen.morgan@madacademy.com

madacademy.com Music And Dance and a whole lot of fun!

NEW! Parties by Stagecoach Epsom!

Rachel Crouch has recently taken over the Stagecoach business in Epsom.

Rachel previously ran the Stagecoach schools in Sutton. During her 12 years as a Stagecoach and college principal, she has seen hundreds of students go onto professional colleges or professional careers. She now brings her years of experience as a performer, teacher and Stagecoach Principal to Epsom. She said,“My passion is seeing a child with little or no confidence grow term by term. Parents often told me how their child wouldn’t speak or wouldn’t join in activities at school, but after a few terms with me at Stagecoach, he or she would be singing in the school shows or saying lines in assembly” this is the most rewarding part of being a principal, and why I was so keen to take over the Epsom schools. Rachel has big plans for Epsom. She has already launched a Further Stages class for students aged 15+ who wish to take their training to a more advanced level. She has also launched Stagecoach Parties which offers themed parties for younger children such as “pop” “princess” “pirates” etc and murder mystery dinner parties for teens.

Epsom Themed parties for 4-10 year olds: knights and princesses, pirates and mermaids, fairies, witches and wizards, super heroes, jungle animals, pop stars or musicals!!!

Now booking, email

The schools are now recruiting for their last few places for September. Rachel is also a local mum with 3 children.

stagecoachparties@gmail.com

For more information or to book a place please email Rachel at epsom@stagecoach.co.uk or call 01372 730363 for an informal chat.

07540889179

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 5September Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 8669 5187 5187 October 2014 020

or call Chloe Cuthill on

QUALITY TRAINING

ESTABLISHED 1988 600 SCHOOLS NATIONWIDE

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies www.Families-LSB.co.uk www.Families-LSB.co.uk

September October 2014 Families London-Surrey Borders

Clubs, Classes & Activities The importance of children’s after school activities...

By Susan Tomlinson

Whether or not you reckon you might be raising the next Picasso or David Beckham, there’s no doubting the pluses for after school clubs. From ballet to basketball and art to archery, there’s an after school activity out there for every child. And the best thing about them is they’re brilliant for all sorts of reasons – not just learning a new skill. For a start, after school clubs give kids the chance to let off steam outside of the classroom. When you consider that in many countries around the world, kids don’t even start school until 6 or 7 years old, a full day in the classroom for youngsters can be a big ask. That’s why an alternative to the three R’s can be hugely rewarding. As clinical psychologist Dr Julie Fraser, puts it: “It’s an opportunity for kids to explore different talents. Not everyone is brilliant at academic subjects and it’s a chance for your kids to shine outside of the classroom.”

participate in outside school clubs. One 2005 study from the US actually showed that kids who attended clubs performed much better in maths and verbal reasoning tests than kids who didn’t. But kids clubs are not only great for improving academic levels but for developing important life skills too. “It’s brilliant for developing social skills, dealing with new environments, talking to different adults and mixing with different children,” says Dr Fraser. “But best of all, after school clubs are confidence building.”

Team sports like football, rugby, and netball are not only brilliant for keeping kids active but also helping them learn team work where they can begin to appreciate what’s good for the whole team, rather than just thinking of themselves. Competitive sports are also great for learning difficult life lessons like being a gracious winner — and loser. But for team building clubs with a less

She adds: “Learning a new skill can also affect what happens in school – kids feel more confident and able to try new tasks.” Certainly all the research shows this to be the case. Every leading study into extra curricular activities demonstrates that academic grades actually improve when kids

competitive edge, you could consider Woodcraft Folk, Brownies and Scouts.

Learning a musical instrument is great for discovering the art of practice, patience and persistence. Drama clubs are great for shy kids who learn to find their voice singing and acting alongside others, while ballet and dance is great for kids to learn discipline and self-expression. The list is endless. There are clubs for almost anything you can imagine. Archery, chess, horse riding, computer clubs, film making and even circus skills are all proving popular alongside the more traditional arts and crafts, swimming, tennis and kung fu. There are clubs for nature lovers run by the Woodland Trust, BMX biking for tots, and even kids yoga and tai chi. There’s so many to choose from, it’s tempting to try them all but it’s also important not to overburden kids with too many activities. Frantically driving from one after school club to the next seems to be missing the point. New skills, team work and confidence building aside, the most important thing to think about when deciding which club to choose is surely the fun factor. After that, the trick is to stay involved. “It’s important to talk with the teacher, find out how they work and show an interest in the class, “ says Dr Fraser. “That way you can be sure your child really is enjoying the club, and you will begin to watch them flourish and grow.” Visit our hugely popular online Directory for a comprehensive listing of your local Clubs and Classes. www.familiesonline.co.uk

Research cited from College Board Research Howard and Everson. New York 2005. http://research.collegeboard.org/sites/default/files/publications/2012/7/researchreport-2005-2-extracurricular-activities-high-school-higher-sat-scores.pdf

The Good Ship Lollypop

Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools

PLAY CENTRE NEW SOFT AG ES! * * * * PA R T Y PA C K 7 D AY S A W EEK

. .Established ........

1995

FUNKY

KNK STADIUM, IMPERIAL FIELDS, BISHOPSFORD ROAD, MORDEN, SURREY SM4 6BF Call 07703 566411 / 020 8685 6193 or email rosie@thegoodshiplollypop.co.uk or visit www.thegoodshiplollypop.co.uk mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 6 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

ek Two we ilable! Trial ava

Class es in:

3–18 years

Croyd on

020 8447 4530 www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

September October 2014

Directory of local Clubs & Classes

Clubs and classes directory We’ve searched high and low to find all the clubs and classes in the area – this is the most comprehensive and up-to-date list anywhere in the region BABIES & PRE-SCHOOLERS

PRE-SCHOOL IN CR0 DIDDI DANCE Our Lady of Annunciation, Addiscombe, Croydon CR0 7EN All year round funky classes & parties for pre-school girls & boys. Melissa: 07939 520 638 www.diddidance.com DRAMABUDS Kidspace Croydon, CR0 4RQ Term-time classes and holiday workshops for 2 – 4 year olds exploring stories through drama, play, movement and song. Becca Wall: 020 8669 2355 www.dramabuds.co.uk GBMAA EPSOM & CROYDON MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY Croydon CR0 1TA All round school of Martial Arts excellence teaching Martial Art skills following a belt syllabus, self defence and life skills concentrating on important elements such as Confidence, Self Esteem, Listening, Perseverance, Courage, Focus and Discipline. For ages 4+ Saffron Power: 0800 849 6334 / 07584 473 784 www.gbacademies.co.uk MAD ACADEMY CROYDON Shirley Scout Hut, Croydon CR0 8TB All year round classes and children’s parties for babies, toddlers and preschool children from walkers to 4 years packed with music, movement, rhythm and dance. MAD Academy pride themselves on their free spirited and relaxed classes with a fun, funky and physical approach. Debbie Mason: 01689 844848 www.madacademy.com

PRE-SCHOOL IN CR2 ATLANTIS SWIM SCHOOL LTD Whitgift School, S. Croydon CR2 6DT Ongoing swimming lessons in small groups. For ages from 18 months old. 020 8335 3536 www.atlantisswimschool.co.uk

FUTSAL FOCUS ACADEMY Kendra Hall Rd, S. Croydon CR2 6DT Futsal classes & leagues (indoor Brazilian football). From Pre-school (2 – 4 years) to 16 years. Receive free holiday camps when you attend a weekly Futsal class (T&Cs apply) 0844 318 1700 www.futsalfocusacademy.com JIGSAW PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOL Whitgift School, S. Croydon CR2 6DT

Weekend dance, drama and singing classes for children aged 3 – 18 years. Children are divided into age appropriate groups and work towards shows and presentations. Jigsaw focuses on having fun and building confidence through engaging performing arts activities. Two week trial available. 020 8447 4530 www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk MAD ACADEMY CROYDON St John’s Church Hall, Selsdon, South Croydon CR2 8DD For more details see entry in CR0 MONKEY MUSIC SOUTH CROYDON AND CATERHAM St Paul’s Church Hall, South Croydon CR2 7HF; South Croydon Sports Club, Beech Copse CR2 7ES Preschool music classes for babies and

Your Hub for making music Friendly, knowledgeable staff Music courses for children and adults Group lessons from only £12/50mins Guitar, Bass, Drums, piano/keyboards vocal and saxophone tuition available in our purpose-built teaching studios Workshops and masterclasses Regular live music events Free Parking See our great range of instruments and sheet music

020 8642 2838 info@suttonmusiccentre.co.uk www.suttonmusiccentre.co.uk 35 St NicholasWay, Sutton, SM1 1JN mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 7 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

young children aged 3 months – 3 years. The progressive Monkey Music curriculum has been written by classically trained musicians and introduces music to very young children in a way they can easily understand and enjoy. Lessons incorporate action songs and rhymes; music and movement; fun with percussion and musical games. Karen Chandler: 020 3251 1061 www.monkeymusic.co.uk

SPOTLIGHTS THEATRE SCHOOL Old Palace of John Whitgift School, S. Croydon CR2 7YN Drama, dance & singing classes for 4 – 7 years. An introduction to drama, dance and singing, building self confidence along the way. Free trial classes available. Faye Willingale: 020 8460 5711 www.spotlightstheatre.co.uk TUMBLE TOTS St Augustine Church South Croydon CR2 6BA. Classes to develop children’s physical skills of agility, balance, co-ordination and climbing. For 6 months to school age. Antonio Girling: 07743 103 208 www.tumbletots.com TUMBLE TOTS Sanderstead United Reformed Church Hall CR2 0HB. For walkers to 7 years – for more details see previous entry. PRE-SCHOOL IN CR3 MONKEY MUSIC SOUTH CROYDON AND CATERHAM The Arc, Caterham CR3 5XY For more details see entry in CR2

TUMBLE TOTS Queens Park Pavilion, Caterham CR3 5RB. 6 months to school age. For more details see entry in CR2 PRE-SCHOOL IN CR4 DIDDI DANCE For more details see entry in CR0

FIRST CLASS LEARNING Mitcham Library, CR4 2YR. A personalised & systematic program of English and Maths tuition which covers the National Curriculum (Key Stage 1 – 4). For ages 3+. Neela and Jitu Patel: 020 8646 6791 www.firstclasslearning.co.uk

PRE-SCHOOL IN CR5 DIDDI DANCE St Andrews Church Hall, CR5 2DN All year round funky classes & parties for pre-school girls & boys. Danielle: 07729 848 419 www.diddidance.com FUTSAL FOCUS ACADEMY Coulsdon College, CR5 1YA; The Oasis Academy, Old Coulsdon CR5 1ES; Meadow Rise, Coulsdon CR5 2EH For more details see entry in CR2 TUMBLE TOTS Coulsdon Methodist Church Hall CR5 2BE. Walkers to school age. For more details see entry in CR2.

PRE-SCHOOL IN CR7 FIRST CLASS LEARNING St Stephens Church, Thornton Heath CR7 7NH. A personalised & systematic program of English and Maths tuition which covers the National Curriculum (Key Stage 1 – 4). For ages 3+. Bhavini Patel: 07724 924 256 www.firstclasslearning.co.uk TUMBLE TOTS Thornton Heath Leisure Centre, CR7 8LF. 6 months to school age. For more details see entry in CR2 DIDDI DANCE For more details see entry in CR0

PRE-SCHOOL IN CR8 DIDDI DANCE St Barnabas Church Hall, Purley CR8 2HR For more details see entry in CR0

Learn to dance, act & sing Little Stars (4 – 6 years) A fantastic introduction to the fun of performing arts. Each session includes dance, drama and singing and are structured to help your child build self confidence, work in a team, learn actively and realise their potential. Different material every term finishes with a fantastic costumed performance to family and friends.

New term now booking!

Free trial sessions are available at all classes.

www.Families-LSB.co.uk SUA129 STS Families London Surrey Little Stars Ad 87x85.indd 1

September October 2014 11/2/11 14:16:04

Directory of local Clubs & Classes Book your FREE trial today! Funky pre-school dance classes for girls & boys For classes in Addiscombe, Mitcham, Croydon & Purley,

call Melissa on 07939 520 638

Diddi Dance parties also available

For Classes in Ewell, Carshalton, Cheam, Coulsdon, Sutton, Banstead, Stoneleigh & Reigate

Danielle on 07729 848 419 Diddi Dance parties also available

www.diddidance.com

PRE-SCHOOL IN CR8 FIRST CLASS LEARNING Purley A personalised & systematic program of English and Maths tuition which covers the National Curriculum (Key Stage 1 – 4). For ages 3+. 020 8395 6813 www.firstclasslearning.co.uk MAD ACADEMY CROYDON St Swithuns Church Hall, Groveland Road, Purley CR8. For more details see entry in CR0 MONKEY MUSIC SOUTH CROYDON AND CATERHAM Christ Church, 861 – 863 Brighton Road, Purley CR8 2BN. For more details see entry in CR2 TUMBLE TOTS Kenley Memorial Hall CR8 5AB. Walkers to 3 years. For more details see entry in CR2 PRE-SCHOOL IN KT4

Imaginative Drama Classes

Growing Buds 2 - 4 years Full Blooms 4 - 7 years Budding Actors 7 - 10 years Classes in Carshalton, Cheam, dramabuds Croydon & Worcester Park adventure 020 8669 2355 parties too

www.dramabuds.co.uk

ATLANTIS SWIM SCHOOL LTD Linden Bridge School, Worcester Park KT4 7JW. For more details see entry in CR2 DRAMABUDS Worcester Park Library, KT4 8ES For more details see entry in CR0 PRE-SCHOOL IN KT9

ATLANTIS SWIM SCHOOL LTD Holiday Inn Hotel, Chessington KT9 2NE. For more details see entry in CR2 PRE-SCHOOL IN KT17

a ce up an Serving

We provide a fun and safe environment for preschool children to learn tennis, get actively involved and build their confidence during the early years of development.

Learn your ABCs...

Agility...

tennis p

rogramme for 2-6 year olds.

Learn tennis, have fun and meet new friends.

Indoor venues in Surrey.

Balance...

Coordination

For a free trial session: visit us at: www.topspinmonkeys.co.uk or call Andy Low on 07779 130596.

Classes in Epsom, Cobham, Weybridge and East Horsley.

ATLANTIS SWIM SCHOOL LTD Epsom College, KT17 4JQ. For more details see entry in CR2 DIDDI DANCE St Mary’s, Ewell KT17 2AY For more details see entry in CR5 FUTSAL FOCUS ACADEMY Reigate Road, Epsom KT17 3DS For more details see entry in CR2 GBMAA EPSOM & CROYDON MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY Rainbow Centre, Epsom KT17 1BN. For more details see entry in CR0 MONKEY MUSIC United Reformed Church, London Rd, Ewell KT17 2BB. Pre-school music classes for ages 3 months – 4 years. Dinah Nightingale: 01932 223309 www.monkeymusic.co.uk/area/ banstead-claygate-esher-epsom

Australia’s largest

multi-sport & exercise

READY STEADY GO KIDS 4th Ewell Scout Group Hall, Ewell KT17 2SA; Bourne Hall, Ewell KT17 1UF Fun and active classes aimed at developing your child’s motor skills and instilling a life-long love of active lifestyle. For ages 2½ – 6 years with children split into various age groups for a 45 minute class. Term-time classes. 0800 690 6591 www.rsgk.co.uk TOPSPIN MONKEYS Nescot College, Epsom KT17 3DS Serving up an ace tennis programme for 2 – 6 year olds Andy Low: 07779 130 596 www.topspinmonkeys.co.uk

PRE-SCHOOL IN KT18

MAD ACADEMY EPSOM St Christopher’s School Hall, Downs Road Epsom KT18 5HE. Classes for under 5s that are fun, educational and bursting with energy. Children make music, sing & dance to lots of popular songs, as well as funky original MAD Academy ones. Karen Morgan: 01372 210378 www.madacademy.com MONKEY MUSIC Epsom Methodist Church Hall, Epsom KT18 5AQ Award-winning music classes for babies and children. Classes for 3 months to 4 year olds Janine: 01483 841 303 www.monkeymusic.co.uk READY STEADY GO KIDS Epsom Methodist Church Hall, KT18 5AQ For more details see entry in KT17. TOPSPIN MONKEYS St Joseph’s Church Hall, Epsom KT18 7JQ For more details see entry in KT17. PRE-SCHOOL IN KT19

DIDDI DANCE St John’s, Stoneleigh KT19 0QZ For more details see entry in CR5 TOPSPIN MONKEYS Christ Church, Epsom Common KT19 8NE For more details see entry in KT17. PRE-SCHOOL IN KT20

MAD ACADEMY EPSOM St John the Evangelist Church Hall, Tadworth KT20 5DB. For more details see entry in KT18.

FUTSAL FOCUS ACADEMY Chinthurst School, Tadworth KT20 5QZ For more details see entry in CR2. PRE-SCHOOL IN KT21

FUTSAL FOCUS ACADEMY Ashtead Park, KT21 1ET For more details see entry in CR2 MAD ACADEMY EPSOM St Michael’s Church Hall, The Marld, Ashtead KT21 1RS. For more details see entry in KT18. MONKEY MUSIC Ashtead Peace Memorial Hall, KT21 2BE; Ashtead Old Freemans Memorial Clubhouse, City of London Freemans School KT21 1ET For more details see entry in KT18. PRE-SCHOOL IN SE25

FIRST CLASS LEARNING South Norwood Methodist Church, (Opposite Stanley Halls) SE25 6EG. A personalised & systematic program of English and Maths tuition which covers the National Curriculum (Key Stage 1 – 4). For ages 3+. Simone Farnon: 020 8402 2150 www.firstclasslearning.co.uk PRE-SCHOOL IN SM1 DIDDI DANCE Westmead Rd Scout Hall, Carshalton SM1 4JN For more details see entry in CR5 READY STEADY GO KIDS The Sports Village, Sutton SM1 3HH For more details see entry in KT17. PRE-SCHOOL IN SM2

DIDDI DANCE Nuffield Health Centre, Cheam SM2 7BJ For more details see entry in CR5 GYMBOREE CHEAM Cheam Sports Club, Peaches Close, Cheam Village SM2 7BJ. All year round classes which utilise a unique and impressive combination of music, movement, props, imaginary play and customdesigned and patented apparatus, all to create a fun and magical world where children learn, thrive and most importantly have fun. For ages 6 weeks – 5 years. 07990 761 259 w ww.gymboree-uk.com/cheam READY STEADY GO KIDS St Andrews Church, Cheam SM2 7HF. For more details see entry in KT17.

NOW IN THE

program for children aged 2–7 years

@RSGKUK ReadySteadyGoKidsUK

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 8 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

Your local Ready Steady Go Kids Classes are held at venues near you in Cheam, Chessington, Epsom, Ewell and Sutton. Term 1 begins 1st September 2014 (10 week term with a break for half term)

0800 690 6591 www.rsgk.co.uk info@rsgk.co.uk

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

FR AV AN AI CH LA IS BL ES E

Sports covered: Football Tennis Basketball Athletics Hockey Rugby Golf AFL Cricket T-ball

September October 2014

Directory of local Clubs & Classes DRAMABUDS Cheam Library, SM3 8QH For more details see entry in CR0. MAD ACADEMY SUTTON The Parochial Rooms, Cheam, Sutton SM3 8BD All year round classes and children’s parties for babies, toddlers and preschool children from walkers – 4 years packed with music, movement, rhythm and dance. MAD Academy pride themselves on their free spirited and relaxed classes with a fun, funky and physical approach. Pauline Llewellyn: 01372 372 942 www.madacademy.com SING & SIGN Cheam Fields Primary School and Children’s Centre, SM3 8PW The original British baby signing programme. Alex Ashison: 07932 443 809 www.singandsign.co.uk PRE-SCHOOL IN SM5

DRAMABUDS Carshalton Beeches Baptist Church, SM5 2NR; West Street Evangelical Church, Carshalton SM5 3NL For more details see entry in CR0. MAD ACADEMY SUTTON Muschamp Children’s Centre, Carshalton SM5 2SE For more details see entry in SM3.

SING & SIGN The Riverside Centre, Carshalton, Sutton, SM5 2FJ For more details see entry in SM3. PRE-SCHOOL IN SM6

FIRST CLASS LEARNING Holy Trinity Parish Church, Wallington SM6 8BL. A personalised & systematic program of English and Maths tuition which covers the National Curriculum (Key Stage 1 – 4). For ages 3+. Sejal Littlebury: 020 8395 6813 www.firstclasslearning.co.uk MAD ACADEMY SUTTON Holmwood Hall, Wallington SM6 0EU For more details see entry in SM3. PRE-SCHOOL IN SM7

DIDDI DANCE Nork Community Centre, Banstead SM7 1JB For more details see entry in CR5 FUTSAL FOCUS ACADEMY The Beacon School, Banstead SM7 1AG For more details see entry in CR2. MONKEY MUSIC Banstead Centre, The Horseshoe, Bolters Lane SM7 2BQ. For more details see entry in KT17. READY STEADY GO KIDS St Peters Church Hall, Banstead SM7 3NR For more details see entry in KT17. SING & SIGN YMCA Surestart Children’s Centre, Banstead, SM7 2BQ For more details see entry in SM3.

PERFORMING ARTS © Copyright Stagecoach Sutton

PRE-SCHOOL IN SM3 DIDDI DANCE Cheam Library, SM3 8QH For more details see entry in CR5

PERFORMING IN CR0 STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS SHIRLEY Shirley High Performing Arts College, CR0 5EF. Dance, drama and singing tuition designed to give great performing arts training whilst teaching skills for life. For ages 4 – 18 years. Stuart Burrows: 020 8949 1116 www.stagecoach.co.uk/shirley PERFORMING IN CR2 JIGSAW PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOL Whitgift School, S. Croydon CR2 6DT For more details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR2. SPOTLIGHTS THEATRE SCHOOL Old Palace of John Whitgift School, S. Croydon CR2 7YN For more details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR2. STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS CROYDON Croydon High School, Selsdon CR2 8YB. Dance, drama and singing tuition designed to give great performing arts training whilst teaching skills for life. For ages 4 – 18 years. Rachel Betts: 0845 265 7083 www.stagecoach.co.uk/croydon

PERFORMING IN CR3 PERFORM Caterham Centenary Hall, Caterham CR3 5PA Drama, dance and singing classes for ages 4 – 8. Autumn 2014 theme: Outer Space. Whilst children have the best fun of the week, they are also learning confidence, communication, concentration and co-ordination skills at the same time, giving them a head start in life. Free trial session available. Lucy: 0845 400 1273 www.perform.org.uk

PERFORMING IN CR4 STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS MITCHAM Haslemere Primary School, Mitcham CR4 3PQ Dance, drama and singing tuition in a safe and fun environment for students aged 4 – 18 years. Claire Guy: 020 8942 3502 www.stagecoach.co.uk/mitcham PERFORMING IN CR5 STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS COULSDON Woodcote High School, CR5 2EH. Join the UK’s largest part-time theatre school. Classes are run by professional actors and as well as gaining valuable skills in musical theatre, children grow in confidence and self-esteem. For students aged 4 – 18 years. Zoe McCready: 0845 078 0805 www.stagecoach.co.uk/coulsdon

PURLEY POINTES Coulsdon Community Centre, CR5 3BE For ages from three up to adult. Learn from Professional Ballet Dancers. Emma Northmore: 07958 725 862 www.surreyballetmasters.co.uk/audition/

The MultiSports Group Change your game

MultiSports Sutton&Cheam Weekend sports for boys and girls aged 4 - 16 of all abilities

Tel: 01293 774051 www.themultisportsgroup.co.uk

Crime Investigation Parties Dress up in crime scene suits, follow the clues and use a variety of techniques to solve the crime… just in time for tea and cake!

☛ Suitable for girls and

Cricket, Athletics, Tag Rugby, Netball, Archery, Football and many more!

☛ For home or party venues

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 9 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

Free party bags

Try something different! Solve the crime!

boys age 7+ www.thedetectiveproject.co.uk Call Steve on 01737 219375 / 07757 997359 steve@thedetectiveproject.co.uk

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

September October 2014

Directory of local Clubs & Classes PERFORMING IN CR8 PERFORM St Barnabas Church Hall, Purley CR8 2HR For more details see entry in CR3. STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS CROYDON Riddlesdown Collegiate, Purley, CR8 1EX For more details see entry in CR2. PERFORMING IN KT4 DRAMABUDS Community Hall, The Hamptons KT4 Term-time classes and holiday workshops for 4 – 7 year olds exploring stories through drama, movement and song. Becca Wall: 020 8669 2355 www.dramabuds.co.uk

STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS WORCESTER PARK Cuddington Community Primary School, KT4 7DD. Dance, drama and singing tuition designed to give great Performing arts training whilst teaching skills for life. For ages 4 – 18 years. Georgina Davies 020 8773 4242 www.stagecoach.co.uk/worcesterpark PERFORMING IN KT17 PERFORM Bourne Hall, Ewell KT17 1UF. For more details see entry in CR3.

STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS EPSOM Bourne Hall, Ewell KT17 1UF; Wallace Fields Junior School, KT17 3BH. Dance, drama and singing tuition designed to give great Performing arts training whilst teaching skills for life. For ages 4 – 18 years. Rachel Crouch: 01372 730363 www.stagecoach.co.uk/epsom

PERFORMING IN SM5 DRAMABUDS Carshalton Beeches Baptist Church; West Street Evangelical Church Carshalton. Term-time classes and holiday workshops for 4 – 10 year olds exploring stories through drama, movement and song. Becca Wall: 020 8669 2355 www.dramabuds.co.uk

CROYDON HIGH SPORTS CLUB Croydon High School, Selsdon, S. Croydon CR2 8YB Swimming, Tennis, Netball, Dance, Zumba STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS SUTTON classes. For ages 4 – 12 years. Carshalton High School for Girls, SM5 2QX; Ceri Grimwood: 020 8657 9313 The New Stanley Park High School, www.croydonsportsclub.co.uk Carshalton SM5 4NS For more details see entry in SM2. FUTSAL FOCUS ACADEMY Kendra Hall Rd, S. Croydon CR2 6DT PERFORMING IN SM7 For more details see entry in Babies & STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS EPSOM Preschoolers section under CR2. Beacon School, SM7 1AG. TUMBLE TOTS For more details see entry in KT17. Sanderstead United Reformed Church Hall, PERFORMING IN SW19 CR2 0HB. PERFORM Walkers to 7 years – For more details see Trinity United Reform Church, London, entry in Babies and Preschool section SW19 4AA; Pelham Primary School, under CR2 Wimbledon, London, SW19 1NU. SPORTS IN CR5 For more details see entry in CR3. FUTSAL FOCUS ACADEMY PERFORMING IN SW20 Coulsdon College, CR5 1YA; The Oasis STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS MERTON PARK Academy, Old Coulsdon CR5 1ES; Meadow David Lloyd Raynes Park, London SW20 8TE. Rise, Coulsdon CR5 2EH Dance, drama and singing tuition designed For more details see entry in Babies & to give great Performing arts training whilst Preschoolers section under CR2. teaching skills for life. For ages 4 – 18 years. SPORTS IN KT4 Claire Guy: 020 8942 3502 www.stagecoach.co.uk/mertonpark ATLANTIS SWIM SCHOOL LTD Linden Bridge School, Worcester Park KT4 7JW. ART & CRAFT For more details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR2.

STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS EPSOM Rosebery School, Epsom KT18 7NQ. For more details see entry in KT17.

PERFORMING IN SM2 STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS SUTTON Overton Grange School, Sutton SM2 6TQ. Dance, drama and singing tuition designed to give great Performing arts training whilst teaching skills for life. For ages 4 – 18 years. Jennifer Jones: 01737 270060 www.stagecoach.co.uk/sutton STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS CHEAM Nonsuch High School for Girls, Cheam SM3 8AB. Dance, drama and singing tuition designed to give great Performing arts training whilst teaching skills for life. For ages 4 – 18 years. Georgina Davies 020 8773 4242 www.stagecoach.co.uk/cheam

www.michaelasuleman.com

PERFORMING IN KT18

PULL THE OTHER THEATRE EDUCATION Epsom Playhouse, the Myers Studio, Epsom KT18 5AL. Acting Company with LAMDA tuition age 8 – 16. Private LAMDA tuition in Acting, Speaking Verse and Prose and Public Speaking from their Banstead base. The first two terms are dedicated to the internationally recognised LAMDA Acting qualifications; the third is spent as a professional ensemble rehearsing for a performance. PtO’s training methods are akin to those taught in accredited Drama Schools across the UK. 07801 268 387 www.ptotheatre.org.uk.

SPORTS IN CR2 ATLANTIS SWIM SCHOOL LTD Whitgift Boys School, S. Croydon CR2 6LN. For more details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR2.

ART & CRAFTS IN CR8 GET FIRED Purley CR8 2LN 020 8660 3188 www.getfired.co.uk

ART & CRAFTS IN SM3 VILLAGE CERAMICS Cheam SM3 8SD 020 8661 7837 www.villageceramics.co.uk

ART & CRAFTS IN SM6 GLAZED ALL OVER CERAMICS STUDIO Wallington SM6 9AY 020 8647 6463 www.glazedallover.co.uk

ART & CRAFTS IN KT17 MICHAELA’S ART CLASSES Epsom, KT17 3JQ Run by a professional artist, classes are full of fun and creative projects that help children fulfil their potential. For 6 – 16 year olds. Michaela Suleman 07800 638 959 www.michaelasuleman.com

SPORTS

SPORTS IN CR0 GBMAA EPSOM & CROYDON MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY Croydon CR0 1TA For more details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR0.

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 10 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

SPORTS IN KT9 ATLANTIS SWIM SCHOOL LTD Holiday Inn Hotel, Chessington KT9 2NE. For more details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR2. SPORTS IN KT17 ATLANTIS SWIM SCHOOL LTD Epsom College, KT17 4JQ. For more details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR2. FUTSAL FOCUS ACADEMY Reigate Road, Epsom KT17 3DS For more details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR2.

SPORTS IN KT19 TOPSPIN MONKEYS Christ Church, Epsom Common KT19 8NE For more details see entry in KT17. SPORTS IN KT20 FUTSAL FOCUS ACADEMY Chinthurst School, Tadworth KT20 5QZ For more details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR2. SPORTS IN KT21 FUTSAL FOCUS ACADEMY Ashtead Park, KT21 1ET For more details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR2.

SPORTS IN SM3 MULTISPORTS SUTTON & CHEAM Nonsuch High School for Girls,Cheam SM3 8AB. Weekend sports schools for 4 – 16 year olds. 01293 774051 www.themultisportsgroup.co.uk SPORTS IN SM7 FUTSAL FOCUS ACADEMY The Beacon School, Banstead SM7 1AG For more details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR2.

READY STEADY GO KIDS St Peters Church Hall, Banstead SM7 3NR For more details see entry in KT17.

ACADEMIC TUITION

TUITION IN CR0 EXPLORE LEARNING 335 Lower Addiscombe Road, Addiscombe CR0 6RG. Maths & English tuition for 5 – 14 year olds of all abilities and specialist tuition for the Eleven Plus and entrance exams. 0203 370 5420 www.explorelearning.org.uk TUITION IN CR4 FIRST CLASS LEARNING Mitcham Library, CR4 2YR. A personalised & systematic program of English and Maths tuition which covers the National Curriculum (Key Stage 1 – 4). For ages 3+. Neela and Jitu Patel: 020 8646 6791 www.firstclasslearning.co.uk

TUITION IN CR7 FIRST CLASS LEARNING St Stephens Church, Thornton Heath CR7 7NH. A personalised & systematic program of English and Maths tuition which covers the National Curriculum (Key Stage 1 – 4). For ages 3+. READY STEADY GO KIDS 4th Ewell Scout Group Hall, Ewell KT17 2SA; Bhavini Patel: 07724 924 256 Bourne Hall, Ewell KT17 1UF www.firstclasslearning.co.uk Fun and active classes aimed at developing TUITION IN CR8 your child’s motor skills and instilling a life11PLUS LTD long love of active lifestyle. For ages 2½ – 6 years divided into various age groups for a Laleham Lea Prep School, Purley CR8 3JJ Specialist 11plus Masterclasses focusing on 45-minute class. Term-time classes. areas including Writing, Comprehension, 0800 690 6591 www.rsgk.co.uk Algebra, Word problems, Punctuation, TOPSPIN MONKEYS VR and NVR. Classes delivered by highly Nescot College, Epsom KT17 3DS experienced 11+ tutors and packed full to Serving up an ace tennis programme for 2 tips and shortcuts. A must for pupils – 6 year olds preparing for the 11+. For ages 9 – 10 years. Andy Low: 07779 130 596 Sandra Nicol: www.topspinmonkeys.co.uk 0208 669 2197 / 0845 056 8889 www.11plusmasterclass.homestead.com SPORTS IN KT18 FIRST CLASS LEARNING READY STEADY GO KIDS Purley Epsom Methodist Church Hall, KT18 5AQ A personalised & systematic program of For more details see entry in KT17. English and Maths tuition which covers TOPSPIN MONKEYS the National Curriculum (Key Stage 1 – 4). St Joseph’s Church Hall, Epsom KT18 7JQ For ages 3+. 020 8395 6813 For more details see entry in KT17 (above). www.firstclasslearning.co.uk GBMAA EPSOM & CROYDON MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY Rainbow Centre, Epsom, KT17 1BN. For more details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR0.

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

September October 2014

Directory of local Clubs & Classes TUITION IN CR8 (CONT.) EXPLORE LEARNING 910 – 912 Brighton Rd, Purley CR8 2LN Maths & English tuition for 5 – 14 year olds of all abilities and specialist tuition for the Eleven Plus and entrance exams. 020 8090 2938 www.explorelearning.org.uk

TUITION IN KT17 EXPLORE LEARNING Sainsbury’s, Kiln Lane, Epsom KT17 1EQ. Maths & English tuition for 5 – 14 year olds of all abilities and specialist tuition for the Eleven Plus and entrance exams. 01372 722994 www.explorelearning.org.uk TUITION IN KT18 SOUTHERN TUTORS LTD Rosebery School, Epsom KT18 7NQ 09.30 – 11.30am Saturday morning class in English, Maths and 11 plus for years 4 and 5. Please contact Rosemary NOT the school. Rosemary Najim: 01372 721 119 / 07986 564 651 www.southerntutors.co.uk

TUITION IN SE25 FIRST CLASS LEARNING South Norwood Methodist Church, (Opposite Stanley Halls) SE25 6EG. A personalised & systematic program of English and Maths tuition which covers the National Curriculum (Key Stage 1 – 4). For ages 3+. Simone Farnon: 020 8402 2150 www.firstclasslearning.co.uk

G N I S

TUITION IN SM3 EXPLORE LEARNING Sainsbury’s, North Cheam SM3 9AA. Maths & English tuition for 5 – 14 year olds of all abilities and specialist tuition for the 11+ and entrance exams. 020 8644 0975 www.explorelearning.org.uk TUITION IN SM6

11PLUS LTD The 11plus Brain Training Centre, Wallington SM6 7DJ For more details see entry in CR8 TUITION IN SM6

FLEET TUTORS Various locations Tuition in the pupil’s home. One-toone tuition for prep school entry, 11+, common entrance exams, SATS, and for dyslexia/remedial help. 020 8580 3911 www.fleet-tutors.co.uk

one-to-one maths and physics tuition across the whole of the UK. They always start with a free online assessment of your child’s level. To request a tutor please register online or by calling. They will arrange your free-, no-obligation assessment. 020 3476 4398 www.mathsdoctor.co.uk/families MRS JONES EDUCATION 11 PLUS TUITION. Various locations Tuition for 11+ Entrance Examinations into State Grammar and Private Schools in London & Surrey borders. Year 3 pre-11-Plus, 11 Plus Courses (Year 4 and Year 5), Mock Exam Practice, Interview Technique. Gwenda Jones: 020 8390 6076 www.11plustuition.co.uk

A ch Theat

Classes for Children

MUSIC

MUSIC IN SM1 SUTTON MUSIC CENTRE 35 St. Nicholas Way, Sutton, Surrey, SM1 1JB Guitar, bass, drums and piano lessons. Courses have the emphasis on fun and are led by experienced, enthusiastic and inspiring tutors. 020 8642 2838 www.suttonmusiccentre.co.uk

MATHS DOCTOR Various locations Maths Doctor is an award winning company, run by qualified teachers. They have over 500 tutors providing

rt A e r

Principal Emma Northmore Ex-English National Ballet Co. 07958 725862 emmanorthmore@yahoo.com

TOP TUTORS Various locations Offering private tuition with public speaking, debating, interview training and mentoring and specialising for the 11+ entrance exams. 07580 423 418

E! C ! N W A on O d D y ! N ro

- Inspiration and discipline Tuesdays and Fridays at - Strength and grace Coulsdon Community Centre - Great Posture for life Starting at £4.50 per class - Musicality FREE TRIAL CLASS - Confidence - Friendship, focus and much more!

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Epsom & Area - 07800 638 959

www.michaelasuleman.com

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September October 2014

Photo

Parenting Pages

Parents: know your Rights

The many different rights to leave for parents can be difficult to understand, and won’t get any easier when Shared Parental Leave is introduced next year. This article sets out the different types of leave, who qualifies and what rights there are to pay during leave.

By the Prolegal Employment team

days of the birth. To qualify, dad must have had at least 26 weeks of service 14 weeks before the due date.

Maternity leave

Mums have the right to up to 26 weeks of ordinary maternity leave (OML) and a further 26 weeks additional maternity leave (AML), no matter how long they have been with their employer(s). To qualify, mum must tell her employer the date she wants to start her leave before the end of the 15th week before she is due to give birth. The first 2 weeks after birth are compulsory maternity leave, when she is not allowed to work.

If dad qualifies for OPL he is also entitled to APL, if he working for the same employer as he was when he took OPL and mum goes back to work. APL cannot be taken until baby is 20 weeks old and no later than baby’s first birthday. Dad is entitled to the unexpired portion of mum’s SMP, paid at the same rate.

Parental leave

Qualifying employees are entitled to a maximum of 39 weeks statutory maternity pay (SMP). For the first six weeks mum should be paid 90% of her salary; the remaining 33 weeks are paid at either the statutory rate of £136.78, or 90% of her average gross weekly earnings if this is lower. The statutory rate increased to £138.18 on 6 April 2014. Check your company maternity policy because some employers offer enhanced maternity pay. Terms and conditions of employment continue during maternity leave, except in respect of pay. Mum should continue to get her non-cash contractual benefits such as medical insurance. Holidays accrue during maternity leave and can be taken before or after leave but not during. Mum has the right to return to the same job after OML. After AML, employers can offer a suitable and appropriate alternative if it is not practical for mum to return to the same job.

Paternity leave

Dads, or mum’s partner, are entitled to 2 weeks’ Ordinary Paternity Leave (OPL) paid at £136.78, rising to £138.18 on 6 April 2014. Many employers offer this at full pay. Although most men choose to take the leave as the baby is born, it can be taken at any time within 56

Giving birth should be a straightforward, wonderful and magical experience. This book is a complete Inner Power Hypnobirthing package with a free CD/MP3 download. It tells you how you can achieve just this. Available from www.birthmadeeasy.co.uk and Amazon, Kindle and iBooks For information about Paola’s workshops, see www.innerpowerhypnobirthing.co.uk or call 020 8660 6022 mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 12 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

Both parents are entitled to take up to 18 weeks unpaid parental leave before their child is 5. The leave is calculated in respect of each child, so a parent of 2 children could take up to 36 weeks. Leave must be taken in blocks of a week and can be limited to 4 weeks per year. Employers can postpone the leave for up to 6 months where the business would be unduly disrupted. To qualify for leave, employees must have been with their employer for at least a year. Leave can move between employers, so for example if you had taken 6 weeks leave and got a new job, you could take up to 12 weeks in that new job once you had been there for a year.

Dependants leave

All employees are entitled to a reasonable amount of unpaid leave to deal with dependants who are ill or injured. The leave is also available to cope with unexpected disruption of childcare or to deal with an incident at school. Shared parental leave There has been much publicity around Shared Parental Leave, which will be available to parents of children born after April 2015. Parents will be able to share 50 weeks’ leave after the 2 week compulsory maternity leave. They can take leave in consecutive blocks or at the same time. They can even ask their employer for leave in noncontinuous blocks, though employers will have the right to refuse this. Maternity and Paternity pay will remain at current levels. To qualify, employees must have 26 weeks’ service 14 weeks before the baby’s due date. Both parents must meet the “economic activity test”. That means they must have worked for at least 26 of the 66 weeks before the baby is born, and have earned at least £30 per week for at least 13 of those weeks. Prolegal is a new breed of law firm that looks to challenge the conventional methods by which legal services are delivered. Their approach to legal services revolves around their belief that advice and assistance should be provided in an entrepreneurial, empowering and forthright manner. Prolegal Ltd 020 7743 6719 www.prolegal.co.uk

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September October 2014

Parenting Pages

An active life is a healthy life

By Dean Horridge, CEO, Fit For Sport

to Compete’ primary schools programme with Sport England last year, and the answers were revealing.

As a PE teacher with over 20 years’ experience it’s fair to say I’ve seen some PE trends come and go, from kids doing crosscountry in the snow to Sports Day races being banned. Some things have improved over time but sadly there’s still a school of thought that believes asking children to compete is wrong. Indeed, a survey of 8-16 year olds by Marylebone Cricket Club and Chance to Shine suggested the majority of children would be happy to see the competitive element removed from school sport. However, we want to see children succeed in sport, even representing our country at international levels, and unfortunately you can’t have it both ways. Elite athletes need to learn how to compete, what it feels like to win and, more importantly, what it feels like to lose. Children need to be encouraged to push further to realise their potential. And there’s no harm in doing that, provided the goals are realistic, the child is engaged and the support structure is in place to catch them when they fall. The key to this is engaging kids in the benefits of physical activity at a much earlier age. Fit For Sport did just that as part of our ‘Engage

After taking part in our fun pilot, we asked children aged 4-11 how competition made them feel. The responses were overwhelmingly positive with the vast majority stating that competition made them feel happy, excited and confident as opposed to nervous, afraid or worried. When we asked them outright if they liked taking part in competitions, 86% said yes. That’s 86% of children who like taking part in competitions, once they are engaged in physical activity at a younger age. And it’s not just about being active in school, it’s about being an active family. Children learn so many of their traits from their parents, why should physical activity be any different? Parents have just as much responsibility, if not more, than schools to ensure their kids are eating right, learning to live a healthy lifestyle and engaging in fun activity as a family unit. After all, an active family will lead to a healthy family and surely that is something to strive for in life. For more information go to www.fitforsport.co.uk

GROWING ANTENATAL MOVEMENT NOW HAS OVER 150 UK GROUPS

and share experiences, thoughts, feelings and insight about childbirth. There is often also tea and cake.

Pregnant women in the UK who are looking for an antenatal class or group now have an alternative to the popular NCT – the rapidly growing Positive Birth Movement.

Some are run by birth professionals such as Doulas, Midwives, or Childbirth teachers. Others are facilitated by women who are simply passionate about birth as a positive experience.

Started less than 2 years ago by mum and writer Milli Hill from her living room, the organisation has rapidly grown and now boasts over 150 groups in the UK alone. There are also over 40 Positive Birth Groups in the USA and Canada, and many more around the world, in places as far flung as Brazil, Malaysia, Oman, Denmark, Cyprus, Germany, Ireland, France, Holland, Turkey, Poland, Qatar, Malta, Israel and Singapore. Latest additions include groups in Morocco and Amsterdam. Positive Birth Groups are completely free to attend and area a place for all pregnant women – regardless of their background, experience or choices – to come together

www.positivebirthmovement.org

Local groups:

Croydon: Elizabeth Hibberd positivebirthcroydon@hotmail.com Sutton: Maria Mills Shaw mariamillsshaw@sky.com

Positive Birth Groups aim to be a helpful part of pregnancy; a warm and welcoming place to hear stories and ideas, for women to consider what they really want from their childbirth experience, to learn about their rights and choices, and to challenge any fears or negative expectations they might have. The Positive Birth Movement also uses social media such as Facebook and Twitter to connect all the many PBM groups together, and create a shared network of power and positivity.

Wanted: Business Mums & Dads Successful local business is seeking five partners to work part time from home without compromising family commitments

babylab@bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk

If you have a Managerial, Sales, Marketing, Recruitment or Self-Employed background, and you wish to develop a more balanced lifestyle around your family’s needs, please call Katie or Jim on:

01737 455017 or 07909 681884

http://www.atlantisswimschool.co.uk/

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September October 2014

Education INDEPENDENT & SELECTIVE SCHOOL OPEN DAYS BROMLEY AREA SCHOOLS

Wickham Court, West Wickham, BR4 020 8777 2942 Co-Ed: 2½ – 16. Contact school for details. www.wickhamcourt.org.uk

CROYDON AREA SCHOOLS

Old Palace School of John Whitgift Senior Old Palace site, S. Croydon, CR0 020 8688 2027 G: 11 – 18, Sat 6 and Sat 20 Sep 1.00 – 4.00pm (book place online). www.oldpalaceofjohnwhitgift.org Royal Russell, Croydon, CR0 020 8657 4433 Co-Ed: 3 – 18, Sat 27 Sep: 8.30 – 1.00pm (whole school). www.royalrussell.co.uk Trinity, Shirley Park, CR0 020 8656 9541. B: 11 – 16 /Co-Ed: 16 – 18, Sat 4 Oct: 9.00 – 12.00pm. www.trinity-school.org Croydon High, Selsdon, CR2 020 8260 7543 G: 3 – 18, Sat 11 Oct: 9.30 – 12.00pm (Senior School); 1.30 – 3.00pm (Junior school). www.croydonhigh.gdst.net Cumnor House Boys & Tree Tops Nursery (Pampisford Rd), South Croydon, CR2 020 8660 3445 B: 2 – 13, Sat 27 Sep 9.30 – 11.30pm. www.cumnorhouse.com Elmhurst, South Croydon, CR2 020 8688 0661 B: 4 – 11, Next open day: Oct or by appointment. Contact school for details. www.elmhurstschool.net Old Palace School of John Whitgift Junior, Croham site, S. Croydon, CR2 020 8688 2027 G: 3 months – 11, Sat 4 Oct 2.00 – 4.00pm (book place online). www.oldpalaceofjohnwhitgift.org Whitgift, South Croydon, CR2 020 8688 9222 B: 10 – 18, Sat 20 Sep: 9.00 – 1.00pm; Tue 7 Oct: 4.00 – 8.00pm; Wed 8 Oct, Mon 10, 17, Tue 18, Wed 26 Nov: open afternoons. www.whitgift.co.uk Caterham, Caterham, CR3 01883 335058 Co-Ed: 3 – 18, Sat 20 Sep 9.30 – 12.00pm. www.caterhamschool.co.uk Oakhyrst Grange, Caterham, CR3 01883 343344 Co-Ed: 4 – 11, Fri 17 Oct 10.00 – 12.00pm www.oakhyrstgrangeschool.co.uk Woldingham, Woldingham, CR3 01883 349431 G: 11 – 18, Sat 27 Sep from 9.30am. www.woldinghamschool.co.uk Warlingham Park, Warlingham, CR6 01883 626844 Co-Ed: 2 – 11. Contact school for details. www.warlinghamparkschool.com Cumnor House Girls & Tree Tops Nursery, Purley, CR8 020 8660 3445 G: 2 – 11, Sat 27 Sep 9.30 – 11.30pm, www.cumnorhouse.com Laleham Lea, Purley, CR8 020 8660 3351 Co-Ed: 2 – 11. Contact school for details, www.lalehamlea.co.uk Oakwood School & Nursery, Purley, CR8 020 8668 8080 Co-Ed: 2 – 11. Contact school for details. www.oakwoodschool.org.uk St David’s, Purley, CR8 020 8660 0723 Co-Ed: 3 – 11, Sat 27 Sep 10.00 – 12.00pm. www.stdavidsschool.co.uk

EPSOM & ASHTEAD AREA SCHOOLS

Epsom College, Epsom, KT17 01372 821234 Co-Ed: 13 – 18, Sat 4 Oct 9.45am, visit website for online booking form, www.epsomcollege.org.uk Ewell Castle Junior and Senior, Ewell, KT17 020 8393 1413 Co-Ed: 3 – 18, Thu 2 Oct 6.00pm: (Sixth Form only); Sat 11 Oct 10.00 – 12.00pm & Tue 4 Nov 9.00 – 12.00pm: (Whole School); Wed 15 Oct 9.00 – 10.30am: (Senior School only). www.ewellcastle.co.uk mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 14 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

Downsend Pre-Preps, Epsom, Ashtead & Leatherhead, KT17 21 22 01372 372311 Co-Ed: 2 – 6, Sat 20 Sep: 9.30 – 11.30am (all three locations), www.downsend.co.uk St Christopher’s, Epsom, KT18 01372 721807 Co-Ed: 2½ – 7. Contact school for details www.st-christophers.surrey.sch.uk Kingswood House, Epsom, KT19 01372 723590 Co-Ed: 3 – 7/B: 8 – 13, Thu 9 Oct & Sat 11 Oct 9.30 – 12.00pm, www.kingswoodhouse.org Aberdour, Burgh Heath, KT20 01737 354119 Co-Ed: 2 – 13, Wed 8 Oct: 9.30 – 12.00pm. www.aberdourschool.co.uk Chinthurst, Tadworth, KT20 01737 812011 Co-Ed: 3 – 13, Fri 3 & Sat 4 Oct 9.30 – 12.00pm. Register by phone or online., www.chinthurstschool.co.uk City of London Freemen’s, Ashtead Park, KT21 01372 822423 Co-Ed: 7 – 18, Sat 4 Oct and 8 Nov 9.45am. www.clfs.surrey.sch.uk

KINGSTON AREA SCHOOLS

Kingston Grammar, Kingston-upon Thames, KT2 020 8546 5875 Co-Ed: 10 – 18, Thu 25 Sep: 6.30 – 9.00pm; Sat 27 Sep: 10.00 – 12.30pm, www.kgs.org.uk

LEATHERHEAD & DORKING AREA SCHOOLS

Downsend Preparatory, Leatherhead, KT22 01372 372311 Co-Ed: 6 – 13, Sat 27 Sep: From 9.15am with Headmaster’s Talk at 9.30am, www.downsend.co.uk Manor House School & Nursery, Bookham, KT23 4EN 01372 457077 G: 2 – 16, Sat 18 Oct: 10.00am, www.manorhouseschool.org Box Hill, Mickleham, Dorking, RH5 01372 385002 Co-Ed: 11 – 18, Sat 4 Oct 10.15am, www.boxhillschool.com

SUTTON& BANSTEAD AREA SCHOOLS

Homefield Preparatory, Sutton, SM1 020 8642 0965 B: 2½ – 13, Sat 27 Sep 10.00 – 1.00pm. www.homefield.sutton.sch.uk Sutton Grammar School for Boys (Academy), Sutton, SM1 020 8642 3821 B: 11 – 18, Thu 11 Sep: 4.00 – 9.00pm. www.suttongrammar.sutton.sch.uk Sutton High, Sutton, SM1 020 8225 3001 G: 3 – 18, Thu 18 and Thu 2 Oct: 10.00am (nursery and junior school); Wed 10 and Thu 25 Sep: 9.00am (senior school). www.suttonhigh.gdst.net Seaton House, South Sutton, SM2 020 8642 2332 Co-Ed: 3 – 5/G: 5 – 11, Sat 18 Oct: 10.00 – 12.30pm; Tue 21 Oct: drop in morning 9.30 – 11.30am, www.seatonhouse.sutton.sch.uk Greenacre School, Banstead, SM7 01737 352114 G: 3 – 18, Sat 27 Sep: 9.30 – 12.00pm. www.greenacre.surrey.sch.uk Priory Preparatory, Banstead, SM7 01737 366942 B: 2 – 13, Wed 1 Oct 9.00 – 11.00am: nursery open morning; Sat 4 Oct: 10.00 – 12.00pm: main school, www.prioryprep.co.uk

LONDON SW SCHOOLS

Thames Christian College, Battersea, SW11 020 7228 3933 Co-Ed: 11 – 16, Thu 25 Sep: 11.00 – 1.00pm; Sat 4 Oct: 11.00 – 1.00pm; Wed 8 Oct 11.00 – 1.00pm. www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk King’s College, Wimbledon, SW19 020 8255 5300 Boys: 7 – 16/Co-Ed:6th Form., Sat 27 Sep: 9.30 – 12.30pm (whole school), www.kcs.org.uk Wimbledon High Junior & Senior, Wimbledon, SW19 020 8971 0900/0902 G: 4 – 18, Thu 25 Sep & Tue 30 Sep: 9.15 – 10.30am (junior school); Sat 11 Oct: 9.30 – 12.30pm (senior school). www.wimbledonhigh.gdst.net www.Families-LSB.co.uk

September October 2014

Education

10 tips to encourage young readers 6

by Sal Jefford

Don’t tell them “you know this word” – even if you know they do. If they knew it or remembered it, they would have read it; and it’s frustrating and demoralising to be reminded that you know something but have forgotten it. Instead, help them to work the word out themselves, either using the previous tip or by asking them to look at the picture for clues. Learning to read is not just about decoding a jumble of letters, it’s also about understanding the meaning of the words in the correct context and the pictures can help.

We all know the importance of reading to babies and toddlers, but it’s vital that we continue reading to them – and with them – to support and encourage them as they develop their own reading. Here are ten tips to help them become confident readers with a love of books.

Don’t force them to read if they are not in the mood. That’s a sure way to put them off reading.

Continue to read to them. Reading to your child not only enables them to enjoy some oneon-one time with you, but it helps them to learn about the fluency of reading as they hear you modelling appropriate speed, pacing and intonation.

If they make a mistake and don’t notice, don’t interrupt them. Let them finish the sentence before asking them to read the word again. If they make a mistake again, ask them “Does that sound right?” or “Does that make sense?”.

Find different types of books – picture books, short stories, simple chapter books, poetry, etc. Try non-fiction as well – kids love to know about the world and how things work. If they are interested in the subject then they are far more likely to enjoy reading about it.

Review the book afterwards. Ask them what their favourite part of the story was, or why they thought a certain character did something. Make sure you tell them what you thought as well, especially if parts of the storyline could have been seen differently from another viewpoint.

Always praise their reading efforts. Hearing you say “I was so impressed with how you worked out that tricky word using clues from the pictures” will boost their confidence and make them feel proud of their achievement.

Finally, let them see you reading regularly, and, more importantly, getting enjoyment from reading. If reading is a normal habit for you, then it’s likely that your child will pick up that habit too.

Give them time to experience the book as a whole. Don’t expect them to sit down with a picture book and read the story without looking at the pictures; pictures bring the story to life. In most books they help the reader to understand what the words are telling them. If they are struggling with a word and want you to read it for them, ask them if they recognise any letters, or sounds within the word. Point specifically to parts of the word, or help them to break longer words down into shorter segments. Then blend the sounds together to form the full word.

And here’s a ‘Bonus’ tip: get them to read to a pet, or a favourite teddy, if they feel more comfortable doing that.

For the best possible start in life Preparatory Open Event: 4 October, 14.00-16.00

To register please call 020 8686 7347 or visit www.oldpalace.croydon.sch.uk

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September October 2014

Education

Guide to the new curriculum History

Children across England are returning to school this September with a new curriculum to face. While this has been in the government’s plans for a while now, nearly 70% of parents across London have said they are totally unaware of the changes – showing a dire need for more awareness around what the changes mean for them, and their children.

The history curriculum will take primary school pupils through British history from the stone age to the Normans. They will also be able to study a later era, such as the Victorians. “Significant individuals” whose lives will be given closer attention and compared in different eras include Christopher Columbus and Neil Armstrong, Rosa Parks and suffragette, Emily Davison, Queen Elizabeth I and Queen Victoria. Secondary schools will teach British history from 1066 to 1901, followed by Britain, Europe and world events from 1901, including Winston Churchill and the Holocaust.

To put it simply, for most children and parents the new curriculum will appear more challenging. Many concepts in maths and English will be introduced earlier than previously, and initially this may feel like quite a jump.

English

While there is a continued focus on phonics, there is also to be a larger emphasis on grammar, punctuation and spelling. There will be more concentration on Shakespeare, with children and pupils expected to have studied two of his plays between the ages of 11 and 14.

Maths

In maths, knowing times tables (12 x 12 by the end of Year 4), calculating with fractions, using written methods of calculation and having strong mental maths skills will be more important than ever, and there will be more opportunity to develop problem solving skills in maths – something which we are very excited about.

Computing

Children will be taught to write code and pupils aged five to seven will be expected to ‘understand what algorithms are’ and to ‘create and debug simple programs.’

Science

New content on the solar system, speed and evolution is to be introduced at primary school level. In secondary schools, there will be a clearer sense of separation between physics, biology and chemistry. There will also be a focus on climate change.

So, why have the changes been introduced? As many parents will have read, the UK isn’t doing so well in the world’s league tables. Research commissioned by Explore Learning found that nearly three quarters (72%) of parents worry that British children aren’t leading the field in standards of education – a result of them failing to make the top 20 in reading, maths and science. Parents keen to understand the new curriculum and help their children with homework should try to attend any information sessions that the child’s school offers. In addition, for those not put off by a bit of reading, the programmes of study for each year are available from www.gov.uk/government/collections/national-curriculum. Once the school term begins, if you’re concerned at all with a change in progress at school, always consult your teacher first. You may also like to attend a learning centre such as Explore Learning where we can support, stretch and challenge children in those new topic areas at a pace and level that they are comfortable with. The most important thing is to maintain a child’s confidence and positivity towards learning; it makes such a powerful difference to a child’s success in education. www.explorelearning.co.uk

Epsom Primary and Nursery School and NEW ‘First Steps’ 2 year old provision

Take a look at EPS ... • Early Years provision for 2-4 year olds between 7.30am - 6pm. • Held in purpose-built facilities with specialist indoor and outdoor areas for under 5s. • Parents can claim early education funding for up to 15 hours attendance per week, the term after Nursery attendees are 3 or where eligible Free Early Education for two-year old (FEET) funding the term after your child turns 2. • Our provision offers Breakfast, Lunchtime (where appropriate) and After-School Clubs to support the needs of working parents.Those staying after 4.30pm enjoy a homemade hot meal at teatime.

COME VISIT US AT OUR OPEN MORNINGS ON

FRIDAY 10 OCTOBER or 28 NOVEMBER - 9.30AM – 11AM Epsom Primary & Nursery School, including the Children’s Centre Pound Lane, Epsom, Surrey, KT19 8SD • Tel: 01372 720608 Fax: 01372 739902 email: office@epsom.surrey.sch.uk • website: www.epsomprimaryschool.co.uk From September 2014 the School’s grant maintained nursery will offer flexible teacher led provision each day, term time from 8.45am – 3.15pm for up to 52 children and we will offer up to 16 places in our NEW ‘First Steps’ 2 year-old provision

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September October 2014

Running Head Come and Find out why Life is so Good at Croydon High Juniors!

Founded in 1870

Homefield

We’d love to show you why we are so proud of our school, so please call 020 8260 7508 to arrange a visit at a time to suit you.

Preparatory School For boys aged 3-13

OPEN MORNING

Open Afternoon:

Saturday 27th September 10am – 1pm

Saturday October 11th, 1.30pm til 3pm

Top boys’ prep school in SW London

Visitors welcome anytime. See you soon!

The Sunday Times | Parent Power

Passionate about education

Girls who are going places go to Croydon High School

registrar@homefield.sutton.sch.uk

www.homefield.sutton.sch.uk Western Road, Sutton, SM1 2TE

020 8642 0965

An Independent Day School for Girls aged 3-18 Croydon High School ESTD. 1874

www.croydonhigh.gdst.net

Give your daughter the very best start Greenacre School delivers an excellent education for girls aged 3 to 18 years. Our small class sizes, expert teaching, outstanding pastoral care and extensive extra-curricular programme ensure that every girl has the opportunity to realise her full potential. If you would like to visit the School, please telephone for an appointment or join us at one of our half termly Prospective Parents’ Mornings. For further information, please contact our Admissions Registrar on 01737 352114. Sutton Lane, Banstead, Surrey SM7 3RA admin@greenacre.surrey.sch.uk | www.greenacre.surrey.sch.uk

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Fully co-educational from September 2015 An Independent Day School for ages 3-18 Scholarships and Bursaries Available at 11+ / 13+ / 16+

FORTHCOMING OPEN EVENTS

Thursday 2nd October - Sixth Form only from 6.00pm Saturday 11th October - Whole School 10.00am - 12.00pm Wednesday 15th October - Senior School only 9.00am - 10.30am Tuesday 4th November - Whole School 9.00am - 12.00am admissions@ewellcastle.co.uk Tel: 020 8393 1413 Church Street, Ewell, Surrey, KT17 2AW www.ewellcastle.co.uk

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September October 2014

Education Ewell Castle School to go fully co-ed from 2015 Ewell Castle School will become fully co-educational from September 2015. From this date, girls will be accepted at the Senior School at the normal entry points; into Year 7 and Year 9, in addition to the Sixth Form.

Fleet Tutors says it is a National tutoring service provider with over 36 years’ experience in helping students of all ages and academic backgrounds with personalised tuition.

Peter Harris, Principal at Ewell Castle School said that a recent parent feedback questionnaire, showed that nearly 80% of responses were in favour of the School becoming co-educational throughout. Ewell Castle School is a small, friendly and academic independent day school for 3 – 18 year olds (junior co-ed, currently senior boys only, and sixth form co-ed) set in fifteen acres of beautiful grounds in the heart of Ewell village, Surrey. Ewell Castle School inspires, nurtures and succeeds in achieving its goal of achieving each child’s full potential. Ewell Castle School, Church Street, Ewell, KT17 2AW 020 8393 1413 www.ewellcastle.co.uk

Croydon High adds new minibus pick-up route

Croydon High School has brought in a new minibus collection/drop off minibus route covering Banstead, Wallington and Purley. This adds to the existing route covering Beckenham, Bromley and West Wickham. Both routes operate from September 2014. Contact admissions for more details; download the pick-up/dropoff timetable here:

www.croydonhigh.gdst.net/Mainfolder/document-downloads/Minibus-2015.pdf Croydon High School 020 8260 7508 www.croydonhigh.gdst.net

Epsom Primary launches provision for 2-year-olds Epsom Primary and Nursery School (EPS) offers education for children aged 2-11 years.

Specialising in small group revision courses and one-to-one tuition in all academic subjects starting from school entry and Common Entrance right up to GCSE, A-level and university. Recommended by ‘The Good School’s Guide’. Find out more at www.fleet-tutors.co.uk, e: clientsupport@fleet-tutors.co.uk or 020 8580 3911 / 0845 644 5452

Independent Schools on show 8 – 9 Nov 2014 Meet over 190 of the UK’s leading nurseries, preparatory and senior schools. Gain a balanced understanding of the private schools sector – quite possibly discovering the perfect school for your child, a school you may never have considered before visiting the show. The longest running and most established exhibition of its type, it is a ‘must attend’ event for parents considering private education. Register for your complimentary tickets at www.schoolsshow.com

Tutoring with a difference

A two-form entry primary school from Reception – Year 6, EPS also provides a grant maintained nursery every day, term time, for up to 104 children across 5 attendance models. New for September 2014 EPS launches the first Epsom school based 2 year old provision “First Steps” offering private and FEET places (Free Early Education for Two-year olds). Understanding that so many parents work their ‘Extended School’ enables parents to leave their children from 7.30am – 6pm at one of the school’s specialist Breakfast or After-school clubs. For those staying after 4.30pm, a speciallyprepared home-cooked teatime meal ensures the children are always well-fed and ready for home and bedtime. Following the EYFS curriculum, First Steps, Nursery and the Extended School will enable children to explore and investigate, firing their curiosity and interest in the world around them. Tel: 01372 720608 email: tblandford@epsom.surrey.sch.uk or visit www.epsomprimaryschool.co.uk As recommended by

Kids’ uniform going astray?

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A new tutoring service has opened T in the Croydon area. Top Tutors, under the leadership of Tarlochan O Bawa B.Sc. MBA aims to offer a P private tuition service mainly T u t ors targeting children aged 7 to 11 specialising for the 11+ entrance exams for grammar and independent schools. Asked to describe the business, Tarlochan said, “Tutors with a difference – offering private tuition with debating, public speaking, interview training and mentoring. Specialising in Maths and English for children aged 7 to 11+ and up to GCSE.” Top Tutors 0758 0423418 toptutors5@gmail.com

Oasis Academy tops out at Shirley Park Pupils, staff and the building team at one of Croydon Council’s largest new schools celebrated a milestone in the £5.2 million construction project with a topping out ceremony and the burial of a time capsule.

The new campus will be an extension of nearby Oasis Academy Shirley Park – primary phase and will take in 120 children each year. Willmott Dixon commenced work on the building in October 2013 and is currently on track to complete all elements of the school during November this year.

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

September October 2014

Running Head

An independent day school for boys and girls aged 2 to 13

Maths & English tuition centre For 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities • Courses mapped to the National Curriculum. • Adapts to the individual needs of your child. • Convenient for families - Open 7 days a week. • Award-winning tuition - voted Education Investor Supplementary Education Provider of the Year.

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“Explore Learning members’ improvement in maths was 30% higher than that of the comparison group after controlling for gender, age, year group and special educational needs.” Independent Efficacy Study by the Institute of Education at Reading University (2013). See www.explorelearning.co.uk/efficacy.

are s c ild her ! h C uc pted Vo acce

or book online at www.explorelearning.co.uk mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 19 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

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September October 2014

Education A healthy dialogue

with your school or nursery

By Hannah Hunter

Research shows that the better your relationship with your child’s school, the more they will enjoy learning and do well. However it’s often impossible to know what really goes on at school – children are not very forthcoming when it comes to recounting their day. If they do raise any issues, or if you sense something is amiss, it can be difficult to know how to broach the subject with school. As both a parent and a primary teacher, I know how hard it can be to strike the right balance. If you’re meeting a teacher outside of parents’ evening or class surgeries, it’s because there is a problem. These meetings can easily become tense, with both all parties on the defensive. Here are a few tips for successful communication: Assume the best of your child’s teacher. They are trained professionals who understand the curriculum and child development. They ultimately want the same as you – a happy child who is learning. Let teachers know if there are problems at home You don’t have to go into graphic detail, just tell them if something’s happened which may affect your child’s behaviour. Please don’t assume that your child always tells the truth. Teachers don’t automatically believe what your child tells them about home. Remain calm and neutral “Little Johnny came home rather upset about xxx, I wondered what your take on it is…”, rather than “Why did you shout at Little Johnny like that?” Mediation: if you have issues with a teacher’s conduct, and feel upset or angry, it’s best that an additional member of staff is present.

Talk to the teacher first Even negative feedback is appreciated. Going directly to the head is a bit like them phoning your boss whenever your child misbehaves. Remember that teachers are human They sometimes make mistakes, so try to forgive them for it. For tips on Back to School like how to settle a child at nursery or health packed lunches etc go to www.familiesonline.co.uk

Helping out in school

Get an insight into how things are run and improve your relationship with the school by volunteering.

Parent Helper

Helping out in class can be fun and rewarding. Research shows that having a parent who volunteers improves a child’s experience of school. Organise a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check (Disclosures in Scotland) – you can then volunteer regularly or as a one-off.

School Trips

If you’ve had the DBS check, this one is great for ingratiating yourself. On what is invariably a stressful day, a responsible parent helping out can be a lifesaver.

Use your Expertise

Maybe there’s a school club that would fit your skill set or interests. If not, you could talk to the class or even do an assembly. One volcanologist parent at my son’s school did a legendary presentation including exploding volcanoes.

Priory Preparatory School

An independent day school for boys aged 2 to 13

Nursery Open Morning Wednesday 1 October 9am -11am

01737 366 942

www.prioryprep.co.uk

Priory Preparatory School, Bolters Lane, Banstead, Surrey, SM7 2AJ Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 20Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

Join the PTA

Fostering closer home-school links, the PTA usually organise the school’s fundraising projects, from fetes to family quiz nights. Run by committee, they may include ‘class reps’ who pass on information from other parents in the class.

School Governors

Comprising parent governors and other community members, this group of elected volunteers helps to make management decisions, such as running buildings and budgets, supporting staff and setting discipline standards. It can be time-consuming, particularly if the school’s results are getting worse or it’s going through a big change like appointing a new head teacher, or joining with another school.

Parent Council member

Some schools have a Parent council, where parents meet to share ideas that are fed back to the school governors. This is great if you’re too busy to commit to PTA or Governors, but want to have an input.

Exciting times at Priory Prep

These are exciting times for Priory Prep. Pre-Prep are now fully installed in their brand new building with state-of-the-art technology and fabulous facilities. Over the summer holidays the playground has been redesigned to include an extensive new climbing area, an astro ball court, meadow and garden for quiet time. will be re-installed. The inside of the main building is also planned to have extensive redecoration as well as classes being relocated to benefit from the extra space. Priory Prep now has two classes of a maximum of sixteen boys to a class up to Year 3; this is due to continue until 2016 as part of the planned development. ‘The demand for places has been strong based upon successive Outstanding ISI School Inspections and excellent examination results’ said Headmaster Graham Malcolm, ‘we have happy and industrious boys and an excellent teaching staff.’ Priory Preparatory School, Bolters Lane, Banstead SM7 2AJ 01737 366942 www.prioryprep.co.uk

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September October 2014

Education First Class Learning Helping Children Succeed in Maths and English

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First Class Learning is helping 1000s of children to realise their full potential throughout the UK.

www.ﬁrstclasslearning.co.uk

• Award-winning, one-to-one maths tuition • Professionally trained and certified maths tutors

www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk

• Ensure your child gets the top grades they deserve

 020 3476 4398  www.mathsdoctor.co.uk/families KS2

KS3

7+/11+/13+

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Thames – passion for learning, inspiration for life our exceptional independent school for boys and girls

OPEN MORNING SATURDAY 4th OCTOBER 11.00-1.00

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We make the academic difference by being small enough to know all our girls individually

For full list of open mornings, enrolment and fee details contact 020 7228 3933 Thames Christian College, Wye Street, London SW11 2HB

Leatherhead • Ashtead • Epsom An independent prep school for boys and girls aged 2-13

OPEN MORNING Saturday 18th October – 10.00am Please contact us to reserve a place An independent day school for girls aged 2–16 Manor House School, Manor House Lane, Little Bookham, Leatherhead, Surrey KT23 4EN

01372 457077 admissions@manorhouseschool.org www.manorhouseschool.org mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 21 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

Join us at one of our Open Days Pre-Preps: 20 September 9.30am to 11.30am 13 November 9.30am to 11.30am Prep School: 27 September & 14 November | From 9:15am (Headmaster’s Talk at 9:30am)

T:01372 372311 www.Families-LSB.co.uk

www.downsend.co.uk September October 2014

Education

SCHOOLS DIRECTORY 2014 Choosing an independent school is a major decision for all families. This brief guide aims to introduce some of the best schools in the area. Combined with our list of open days on p14, parents can draw up a shortlist and visit prior to making that all-important decision.

Chinthurst School

Tadworth Street, Tadworth, Surrey KT20 5QZ 013737 812011 info@chinthurstschool.co.uk www.chinthurstschool.co.uk

Chinthurst is an independent preparatory school for pupils age 2 – 13. It is renowned for its friendly family ethos and for focusing on the individual development of each child. They aim to provide an all-round education within a happy, purposeful, active school life and also aim to encourage and stimulate all their pupils, both in the classroom and outside.

Croydon High School GDST Old Farleigh Road, Selsdon, South Croydon CR2 8YB 020 8260 7543 admissions@cry.gdst.net www.croydonhigh.gdst.net

An outstanding day school for girls aged 318, Croydon High prides itself on impressive academic results and a reputation for nurturing happy, confident aspirational young women. Excellent facilities, including swimming pool, Drama, Art and Music studios and state-of-the-art 4D learning room, combine with high quality teaching to provide a top class education in inspirational surroundings. Visitors always welcome.

Cumnor House Boys:

168 Pampisford Road, South Croydon, Surrey CR2 6DA

Girls:

1 Woodcote Lane, Purley, Surrey CR8 3HB

Treetops Nursery: 91 Pampisford Road, South Croydon, Surrey CR2 6DH 13 Woodcote Lane, Purley, Surrey CR8 3HB 020 8660 3445 registrar@cumnorhouse.com www.cumnorhouse.com

The only school in the Croydon area that prepares boys for both the 11+ and 13+. Cumnor House encourage the children in their care to take risks, to step out of their comfort zone, to seize opportunities and not to be content with second best, in keeping with the words of American essayist and poet, Ralph Waldo Emerson: ‘Do not go where the path may lead, instead go where there is no path and leave a trail.’ mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 22 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

Downsend School 1 Leatherhead Road, Leatherhead KT22 8TJ (with Pre-Preps in Ashtead, Epsom and Leatherhead) 01372 372311 www.downsend.co.uk

Downsend School introduces children to the important world of learning in the nurturing environment of their three pre-preparatory schools. They automatically move on to the preparatory school, where they progress through the Lower and Upper Schools until they leave at 13.

Academic results speak for themselves and high achievement has become the norm at the school, with a record 46 Scholarships this year to some of the top senior schools. The children follow a vibrant and engaging curriculum, but the range of activities on offer does not come at the expense of a close-knit community.

Ewell Castle School Church Street, Ewell, Surrey KT17 2AW 020 8393 1413 admissions@ewellcastle.co.uk www.ewellcastle.co.uk Ewell Castle School is a small, friendly and academic independent day school for 3 – 18 year olds.

The junior school and sixth form are co-ed, while the senior schools is currently boys only. From September 2015, Y7 and Y9 entry will be co-educational.

Set in fifteen acres of beautiful grounds in the heart of Ewell village, Surrey. Ewell Castle School inspires, nurtures and succeeds in achieving its goal of achieving each child’s full potential.

Greenacre School for Girls Sutton Lane, Banstead, Surrey SM7 3RA 01737 352114 admin@greenacre.surrey.sch.uk www.greenacre.surrey.sch.uk

Greenacre is a thriving and vibrant school for girls aged 3 to 18 years, large enough to offer variety, challenge and opportunity but small enough for each girl to be known as a unique individual, enabling her to realise her full potential. Greenacre girls flourish in the school’s wonderful environment and atmosphere where an innovative and outward looking approach is aligned with a respect for traditional values. www.Families-LSB.co.uk

September October 2014

Education Homefield School

Priory Preparatory School

Homefield is a school for 400 boys aged 3 – 13, which has a spacious state-of-the-art Early Years Unit and a 2 acre adjoining playing field. The school is renowned for its intimacy and family atmosphere, small class sizes, the fulfilment of individual potential, the openness of communication and the provision of specialist teaching at the earliest appropriate opportunity. Rated by The Sunday Times Parent Power as “Amongst the best performing schools in Greater London”.

Priory Prep boys achieve high academic standards without feeling pressurised; happy boys learn and hence we provide a stimulating learning environment coupled with outstanding pastoral care. Our school combines the warmth and sense of community of a traditional village school with the resources and achievements of a leading preparatory school.

Western Road, Sutton, Surrey SM1 2TE 020 8642 0965 registrar@homefield.sutton.sch.uk www.homefield.sutton.sch.uk

Kingswood House School 56 West Hill, Epsom, Surrey KT19 8LG 01372 723590 admissions@kingswoodhouse.org www.kingswoodhouse.org

Bolters Lane, Banstead, Surrey SM7 2AJ 01737 366 942 sjordan@prioryprep.co.uk www.prioryprep.co.uk

Thames Christian College

Kingswood House is one of the leading prep schools in Surrey offering outstanding education for boys aged 3 – 13 and for girls aged 3 – 7. It also now has a new Junior School for Years 3 – 5 and a flourishing new PrePrep Department offering small class sizes and a family friendly environment in which to learn.

Manor House School Manor House Lane, Little Bookham, Leatherhead, Surrey KT23 4EN 01372 457077 admissions@manorhouseschool.org www.manorhouseschool.org

Wye St, London SW11 2HB 020 7228 3933 www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk

A small independent secondary school for girls and boys near Clapham Junction Station. In our rapidly changing world, pupils need a thorough and well-rounded education to succeed and enjoy life. Thames is more than just a school. Not only do the pupils achieve top grades, but they also leave with the depth of character and steadfast values that set them apart from other young people competing for school places and jobs.

An independent through school for girls aged 2 to 16 years. They are proud of their strong academic results and, as a through school and a community of girls, their nurturing ethos is at the core of their success. Being in an all girls’ environment is a very important part of their ethos because they are able to focus on giving girls the selfconfidence to become all they wish to be. They offer carefully managed progression from the Prep to the Junior department whilst providing challenges and developing independence in readiness for Senior School life.

Old Palace of John Whitgift Seniors:

Old Palace Road Croydon CR0 1AX 020 8688 2027

Juniors:

Melville Avenue, South Croydon CR2 7YN 020 8686 7347 schooloffice@oldpalace.croydon.sch.uk www.oldpalace.croydon.sch.uk

In addition to a first class academic education, the school promotes leadership, independence, integrity and an ambition to achieve. Old Palace has something to inspire every young woman ranging from football to astronomy. Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 23September Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 8669 5187 5187 October 2014 020

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies www.Families-LSB.co.uk www.Families-LSB.co.uk

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

September October 2014 Families London-Surrey Borders

08/07/2014 12:44

What’s On September

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on for an updated list of local events

DIARY DATES FOR AUTUMN

Fri 5 Sep 10.15 – 11.00am (overflow session from 11.00 – 11.45am, depending on numbers) Snappity the Crocodile’s Activities for Under 5s Kingston Museum, Wheatfield Way, Kingston, KT1 2PS 020 8547 5006 www.kingston.gov.uk/events/event/591/ snappity_story_and_craft_at_kingston_ museum Parents and young learners, come along to the FREE, weekly Under 5s activity session, for fun, songs, stories and crafts with Snappity the Kingston Museum crocodile

Sun 14 Sep 11.00 – 12.00pm One Body: painting workshops Sutton Life Centre, 24 Alcorn Close, Sutton SM3 9PX 020 8296 1287 www.suttonlifecentre.org An opportunity for children to create two large community paintings, inspired by the natural environment. Suitable for 4 – 7 years. To book on these workshops please email: adam.greenhalgh@sutton. gov.uk. See the final piece at the Sutton Life Centre on Fri 17 Oct. Free event but booking required.

Sun 7 Sep 11.00 – 5.00pm Donkey Derby Polesden Lacey, Gt Bookham, Dorking RH5 6BD www.leatherheadlions.org.uk Leatherhead & District Lions and Polesden Lacey present a family fun day raising funds for local charities. Including bouncy castle, live bands, donkey rides, stalls and games. Free entry to house and gardens. Sun 7 Sep 11.00 – 4.00pm Open Day Sutton Police Station, 6 Carshalton Rd, Sutton SM1 4RF 020 8643 1212 content.met.police.uk/Borough/Sutton Bigger and better than ever’ with many favourite attractions on show and some new ones too.

Sat 13 Sep – Sun 2 Nov Imagine 2014 various venues around Sutton 020 8770 6990 www.suttontheatres.co.uk/imagine Sutton’s largest festival of the Arts. Free events but places must be booked. To book or reserve tickets by calling or emailing with the title of the event, your full name and number of tickets requested.

Sat 13 & Sun 14 Sep 10.30 – 6.00pm Maize Maze Penshurst Place Estate , Penshurst , Tonbridge, Kent TN11 8DG 01892 870307 www.penshurstplace.com One of ‘This is Kent’s’ top 10 things to do in Kent, get yourselves lost in a field of maize – lots of eco-fun for all the family. Open during normal Gardens & Grounds opening times.

Sun 14 Sep 12.00 – 4.00pm Pony Magic Clandon Park, West Clandon, Guildford, Surrey, GU4 7RQ 01483 222482 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/clandon-park Pony rides for children. A truly magical experience with beautiful, safe ponies and experienced handlers. Children will be led along a 3 – 5 minute ride, suitable for 2 – 11 year olds. No need to book. £2.50 / child per ride.

DAY OUT IDEA

Southbank Centre

Sat 13 Sep 11.00 – 5.00pm Heritage Open Day Polesden Lacey, Gt Bookham, Dorking RH5 6BD www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesden-lacey Free entry all day Sat 13 Sep 10.00 – 4.00pm Reigate Caves Open Day www.wcms.org.uk Conducted tours run every 20 minutes or so according to demand and availability of guides, just turn up, pay your entry fee and join the next tour.

Sat 13 Sep 9.00 – 1.00pm Wallington Farmers’ Market Old Town Hall and Library Gardens, Wallington, SM6 0NB www.wallingtonfarmersmarket.org.uk

Fri 19 Sep 11.00am Classical Babies Concert Waterhouse Café, Waterhouse Lane, Kingswood KT20 6EB www.classicalbabies.com Live classical concerts for mums and babies. Performer details tbc.

Sat 20 Sep 10.30 – 4.30pm Birds of Prey Day Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher, KT10 9JG 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org. uk/claremont-landscape-garden/things-tosee-and-do/events/ An opportunity to see and learn more about these magnificent birds, with two flying displays. Suitable for all ages. Normal admission fees apply.

Sat 20 Sep During opening hours Henfold Birds of Prey flying displays Hobbledown Children’s Farm, Horton Lane, Epsom, Surrey KT19 8PT 0843 289 4979 www.hobbledown.com/events/ See 13 September entry for details

Sat 13 Sep 1.00 – 5.00pm Summer Screen and Summer Fair Children’s Trust, Tadworth Court, Tadworth KT20 5RU www.thechildrenstrust.org.uk The annual Summer Fair is great fun for families with fun rides, stalls and refreshments – and this year there is also a screening of Despicable Me 2

Sat 13 Sep During opening hours Henfold Birds of Prey flying displays Hobbledown Children’s Farm, Horton Lane, Epsom, Surrey KT19 8PT 0843 289 4979 www.hobbledown.com/events/ Get up close and personal with a range of magnificent birds. Watch fantastic flying displays in the purpose built arena and discover more about the wonderful world of falconry as Henfold Birds of Prey takes up residency at the farm park. Predators will include Harris Hawks, Buzzards, American Kestrels, Falcons and various Owls. During opening hours

Sun 14 Sep 11.30 – 3.00pm Making Mondays: Holiday arts & crafts for kids Clandon Park, West Clandon, Guildford, Surrey, GU4 7RQ 01483 222482 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/clandon-park Join in with the summer holiday fun at Clandon. Get into arts & crafts, giant garden games and house & garden trails. £2.00 per child. (normal admission charges apply)

Sat 20 Sep 6.50 – 8.50pm* Bat Walk – A Sutton Nature / Biodiversity event Whitehall, 1, Malden Road, Sutton, SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 www.sutton.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=10157 Walk and talk about bats and see if, using bat detectors, we can find any swarming bats. Booking is essential. *Note late start time. £4.00 per person.

London SE1 8PX www.southbankcentre.co.uk 1-3 Sept Ready, Steady, Céilidh Learn the secrets of Scotland’s most famous shindig – and get up and dance.

7 Sept Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall Parents and under-5s are let loose on the dance floor in this friendliest of discos. DJ Monski Mouse and her team bring high-energy smiling to the Spiegeltent, spinning retro hits and funky nursery rhymes. For ages 0 – 5, accompanied by an adult.

13-28 Sep Ali Mcgregor’s Jazzamatazz An afternoon of jumpin’, jivin’ jazz for kids, led by cabaret star Ali McGregor. An hour of jazzy beats to get the kids singing and dancing with two dance teachers. Parents and friends welcome to join in. 21 Sept Darbarz Children’s Sitar A sitar workshop for children with Jasdeep Degun. The leading sitar maestro explains in child-friendly language the raga tradition and the sitar’s place as an iconic Indian instrument. Children also get the chance to hold the sitar and play basic notes. 12.30 – 1.15pm and 1.15 – 2pm. Free. 21 Sept Children’s Indian Singing Tofail Ahmed, Indian classical vocal teacher leads a session for children on singing Indian ragas from the basics. Children can explore the building blocks of Indian ragas and find out how to sing raga-based compositions. Free.

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 24 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

Sat 20 – Sun 21 Sep 9.30 – 5.00pm Open House Weekend at the Bank of England The Bank Of England Museum, Threadneedle Street EC2R 8AH 020 7601 5545 www.bankofengland. co.uk/education/Pages/museum/ exhibitions/open_house.aspx As part of the Open House London Weekend, the Bank and its Museum will be open to visitors.

Sun 21 Sep 12.00 – 5.00pm Epsom & Ewell Family Fun Day Hook Road Arena, Epsom KT19 8QG www.epsomfunday.net Charity event with entertainment including stalls run by local charities, community groups and businesses. A low cost day of entertainment, with family fun and games for children. Entry by programme £2.00 in advance, £4.00 on the gate; under 12s: free, Car Parking £2.00 (last entry by car 4.30pm) Sun 21 Sep 11.00 – 12.00pm One Body: painting workshops Sutton Life Centre, 24 Alcorn Close, Sutton SM3 9PX 020 8296 1287 (Cont on next page)

September October 2014

What’s On

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on for an updated list of local events

DIARY DATES FOR AUTUMN

Let your kids drive in London. www.suttonlifecentre.org An opportunity for children to create two large community paintings, inspired by the natural environment. Suitable for 4 – 7 years. To book on these workshops please email: adam.greenhalgh@sutton. gov.uk. See the final piece at the Sutton Life Centre on Fri 17 Oct. Free event but booking required. Wed 24 Sep 10.30am Bach to Baby Concert at Holy Trinity Church, 234 Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB www.bachtobaby.com/wimbledon “Monmouth Coffee Mingle” from 10.00am with concert beginning at 10.30am and ending by 11.30am

Thu 25 Sep 5.00 – 6.00pm One Sound: Music workshops Sutton Life Centre, 24 Alcorn Close, Sutton SM3 9PX 020 8296 1287 www.suttonlifecentre.org First of two workshops for children with autism exploring sounds inspired by nature, recording sound with unusual acoustic and electronic instruments. The children will be able to hear their contribution and take away their music. For more details or be involved please email: adam.greenhalgh@sutton.gov.uk. Hear the work at the Sutton Life Centre on Fri 17 Oct. Suitable for 5 – 12 years old. Free event but booking required. Sat 27 Sep During opening hours Henfold Birds of Prey flying displays Hobbledown Children’s Farm, Horton Lane, Epsom, Surrey KT19 8PT 0843 289 4979 www.hobbledown.com/ events/ See 13 September entry for details.

Sat 27 Sep 8.30 – 5.00pm Surrey Sheepdogs on the Downs – Surrey Food and Farm Week event Shabden Park Farm, Chipstead CR5 3SF 01737 552744 www.shabdenparkfarm.com Watch the sheepdog trial and visit Shabden’s own Farmer’s Market (open 9.30 – 2.00pm) and buy food for a picnic.

Sun 28 Sep 11.00 – 4.00pm Autumn Fair Diamond Centre, Woodmansterne Road, Carshalton SM5 4DT 020 8643 7764 www.diamondcentre.org.uk/ chipstead-dressage This is the centre’s largest and most popular fundraising event and promises to be great day out for all the family – and their dogs.

Attractions to include a Novelty Dog Show, Dog Scurry and Fun Agility competitions. This year there will be a very special attraction – Tanya Larrigan presents The Mini Marvels with their interpretation of Riverdance.

Now they can drive a Tube train, climb in a bus cab and lose themselves in our exploration zone. Better still, kids go free at London Transport Museum, Covent Garden.

Sun 28 Sep 11.00 – 12.00pm One Body: painting workshops Sutton Life Centre, 24 Alcorn Close, Sutton SM3 9PX 020 8296 1287 www.suttonlifecentre.org An opportunity for children to create two large community paintings, inspired by the natural environment. To book on these workshops please email: adam. greenhalgh@sutton.gov.uk. See the final piece at the Sutton Life Centre on Fri 17 Oct. Booking required. Tue 30 Sep 11.00am Classical Babies Concert St Martin of Tours Church Hall, Epsom KT17 4PX www.classicalbabies.com Live classical concerts for mums and babies. Performer details tbc.

October

Thu 2 Oct 5.00 – 6.00pm One Sound: Music workshops Sutton Life Centre, 24 Alcorn Close, Sutton SM3 9PX 020 8296 1287 www.suttonlifecentre.org Second of two workshops for children with autism exploring sounds inspired by nature, recording sound with unusual acoustic and electronic instruments. The children will be able to hear their contribution and take away their music. For more details or be involved please email: adam.greenhalgh@sutton.gov.uk. Hear the work at the Sutton Life Centre on Fri 17 Oct. Suitable for 5 – 12 years old. Free event but booking required.

27TH - 28TH SEPTEMBER Come and meet Wallace & Gromit at various intervals each day! Ride the steam trains and find out more about the railway's cracking gadgets and gismos!

Sat 4 Oct During opening hours Henfold Birds of Prey flying displays Hobbledown Children’s Farm, Horton Lane, Epsom, Surrey KT19 8PT 0843 289 4979 www.hobbledown.com/events/ See 13 September entry for details.

Sun 5 Oct 11.00 – 3.00pm Apple Day Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road, Morden, SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hallpark/things-to-see-and-do/events Apple displays, apple pressing and apple printing for all the family.

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 25September Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 8669 5187 5187 October 2014 020

www.watercressline.co.uk Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies www.Families-LSB.co.uk www.Families-LSB.co.uk

September October 2014 Families London-Surrey Borders

What’s On Sun 5 Oct 11.00 – 4.00pm (Last entry 3.30pm) Open day Croydon Airport Visitor Centre, Airport House , Purley Way, Croydon , CR0 0XZ 020 8669 1196 / 07949 536 653 www.croydonairport.org.uk Visit the centre for an insight into the first proper airport. A fascinating day out for all the family. Free parking available. Free event but donation of £3.00 suggested

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on for an updated list of local events

DIARY DATES FOR AUTUMN

Tue 28 Oct 10.00am Baby Disco Secombe Theatre, Sutton 020 8770 6985 www.suttontheatres.co.uk A baby disco session for children aged 6 months – 3 years provided by Little Bopperz. Free event but booking required as spaces are limited.

Sat 4 & Sun 5 Oct Commemorating the Great War – WW1 weekend at Bourne Hall Bourne Hall, Spring Street, Ewell KT17 1UF 020 8394 1734 www. epsomandewellhistoryexplorer.org.uk/ BourneHallMuseumClub.html A free weekend of events, displays, demonstrations and talks, featuring living history re-enactments from the 10th Essex men and women, children’s activities, and music and songs of the period performed by local groups. There will be a half-scale WW1 fighter plane, a front line military hospital, and a rebuilt trench.

Wed 29 Oct 11.00 – 1.00pm and 2.00 – 4.00pm Willow Sculpture Workshops Friends of Sutton Ecology Centre event, Festival Walk, Carshalton SM5 3NY www.friendsecologycentre.org.uk Two local artists, Simon Honey and Lucy Dean, will lead sessions in the Sutton Ecology Grounds to create a new living willow sculpture.

November

Fri 10 Oct 10.30am Bach to Baby Concert at Holy Trinity Church, 234 Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB www.bachtobaby.com/wimbledon “Monmouth Coffee Mingle” from 10.00am with concert beginning at 10.30am and ending by 11.30am

Sun 12 Oct 10.00 – 6.00pm Music Performance Day Secombe Theatre, Sutton 020 8770 6985 www.suttontheatres.co.uk Performances by Sutton Brass Ensemble at 11.30am, the British Clarinet Ensemble at 2.30pm and W10 Choir at 5.00pm, plus many local groups performing throughout the day. Got an old and formerly loved instrument mouldering in the cupboard? Get it out and join the Rusty Orchestra at 1.30pm, email joanna.steele@sutton.gov. uk or call to take part. There will also be craft stalls selling throughout the day, Wed 22 Oct 10.30am Bach to Baby Concert at Holy Trinity Church, 234 Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB www.bachtobaby.com/wimbledon “Monmouth Coffee Mingle” from 10.00am with concert beginning at 10.30am and ending by 11.30am

Fri 24 – Sun 26, Tue 28 – Fri 31 Oct During opening hours Henfold Birds of Prey flying displays Hobbledown Children’s Farm, Horton Lane, Epsom, Surrey KT19 8PT 0843 289 4979 www.hobbledown.com/events/ See 13 September entry for details.

Sat 25 Oct 2.00 – 4.00pm Autumnal Bird Watch – Sutton Nature / Biodiversity ‘Imagine’ Eco Event Whitehall, 1, Malden Road, Sutton, SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 www.sutton.gov. uk/index.aspx?articleid=10157 A gentle guided walk around the local parks, including Cheam Park and Nonsuch Park, looking at bird migration. The walk and talk will start and end at Whitehall, with refreshments available in the tea room at the end. Free event. Booking essential.

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For a wealth of information on what to do with families locally, scan the code into your smartphone

join the cast from A Rubbish Lunch Break and have fun turning rubbish into puppets. Bring along anything you were going to chuck and let’s see what we can create. Limited places available. For ages 6 years + Booking required

Wed 1 Nov 11.00 – 1.00pm and 2.00 – 4.00pm Willow Sculpture Workshops Friends of Sutton Ecology Centre event, Festival Walk, Carshalton SM5 3NY www.friendsecologycentre.org.uk Two local artists, Simon Honey and Lucy Dean, will lead sessions in the Sutton Ecology Grounds to create a new living willow sculpture

Mon 27 – Fri 31 Oct 10.30 – 12.30pm or 2.00 – 4.00pm Denbies Craft Activities Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking RH5 6AA 01306 876616 www.denbiesvineyard.co.uk From £1.50 per activity. Face painting from £3.00 Mon 27 – Fri 31 Oct 11.00 – 3.00pm Lego Exhibition Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking RH5 6AA 01306 876616 www.denbiesvineyard.co.uk Free entry.

Mon 27 Oct 10.00 – 2.00pm Henfold Birds of Prey Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking RH5 6AA 01306 876616 www.denbiesvineyard.co.uk A flying visit with a main display at midday. Free entry

Mon 27 Oct 1.00pm & 2.30pm Sutton Sounds Spooky Secombe Theatre, Sutton 020 8770 6985 www.suttontheatres.co.uk Working with percussion instruments, recorders and voices to create and perform a story about walking through a spooky wood with ghouls and goblins and things that go bump in the night. Each workshop lasts one hour. Suitable for ages 6 – 10 tears. Free event but spaces are limited, so must be booked online or by calling.

Mon 27 Oct 2.00 – 3.00pm A Rubbish Lunch Break Workshop Wallington Hall, 3A Stafford Rd, Wallington, Surrey SM6 9AQ 020 8770 6985 www.savvytheatre.co.uk Come and

DAY OUT IDEA

Bank Of England Museum London EC2R 8AH www.bankofengland.co.uk Your Money: What The Bank Does A new permanent display which explains the role of the Bank of England in today’s economy. The display looks at how the Bank maintains the value of your money, and how it protects the financial system from economic shocks.

Fri 7 Nov 10.30am Bach to Baby Concert at Holy Trinity Church, 234 Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB www.bachtobaby.com/wimbledon “Monmouth Coffee Mingle” from 10.00am with concert beginning at 10.30am and ending by 11.30am.

Sat 8 & Sun 9 Nov Evening Bonfire night parties and Displays www.families-LSB.co.uk

Fireworks Displays and Parties

Thinking about where to go on Bonfire Night?

until 31 Dec The First World War And The Bank Of England The impact the Great War had on the economy, and its effects on the Bank of England and its staff.

Visit our website at www.families-LSB.co.uk and check out our extensive list of local Bonfire & Fireworks displays.

20 – 21 Sept Open House London Weekend Enjoy 30-minute guided tours of parts of the Bank not generally accessible to the public. No booking required. 9:30am – 5pm

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 26 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

Sun 2 Nov 11.00 – 4.00pm (Last entry 3.30pm) Open Day Croydon Airport Visitor Centre, Airport House , Purley Way, Croydon , CR0 0XZ 020 8669 1196 / 07949 536 653 www.croydonairport.org.uk Visit the centre for an insight into the first proper airport. A fascinating day out for all the family. Free parking available. Free event but donation of £3.00 suggested

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

September October 2014

Halloween

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on for an updated list of local events

HALLOWEEN 2014

We have tracked down lots of spooky events in the local area for you and your children to enjoy this Halloween

BOCKETTS FARM PARK Leatherhead KT22 9BS 01372 363764

www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

25 Oct – 2 Nov 10.00 – 5.30pm WIZARDS AND WITCHES WEEK Enjoy a programme of fun and freaky activities including a Witches Quiz Trail and Creepy Crafts, all included in the entry price. There will also be hundreds of pumpkins on sale. Daily activities include pony rides, tractor rides, animal handling and pig racing. Meet and feed all of the friendly farm animals in the Animal Barns. With a large heated indoor play barn, trampolines, Go Karting, young driver’s area and a jumping pillow, there’s plenty to keep the whole family amused, whatever the weather. Suitable for 0 – 8 years.

DENBIES WINE ESTATE Dorking RH5 6AA 01306 876616

Have some autumn fun at a National Trust place near you

www.denbiesvineyard.co.uk

Tue 28 Oct 11.00am and 2.00pm CURIOUSLY CREEPY CRAWLY ROADSHOW Pre booking recommended. Wed 29 Oct 11.00am and 2.00pm ‘THE SPOOKIEST FAIRY TALE EVER TOLD! A ’ Hobgoblin Children’s Theatre Company production. Pre booking recommended. Fri 31 Oct 11.00 – 12.30pm LITTLE MONSTER’S SPOOKY SPECTACULAR HALLOWEEN DISCO Pre-booking recommended

half term holidays

Visit the website below to find out what's going on at: • Box Hill • Headley Heath • Witley Centre • Polesden Lacey • Claremont

nationaltrust.org.uk/surreyevents

GATTON PARK

Reigate, Surrey RH2 0TW 01737 649066 www.gattonpark.com/afcaf.html

Sun 26 Oct 5.00, 6.00, 7.00 or 8.00pm GATTON GHOST STORIES A guide will lead you around the Ghostly Gatton Park to hear some spooky stories to scare your socks off. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Suitable for families with children over 7 years. £6.00 per person. First tour for younger children – tours will get spookier the later you come.

Bocketts Farm Park 25th Oct - 2nd Nov

WIZARDS & WITCHES WEEK

Wed 29 Oct 10.00 – 12.00pm or 1.30 – 3.30pm BATTY ADVENTURES Discover more about these creatures of the night through games, art and trails. Suitable for 4 – 7 year olds. £6 per child.

ENJOY A SPOOKTACULAR DAY OUT! Hundreds of pumpkins! Wizards and Witches Quiz Trail!

HONEYWOOD MUSEUM Carshalton SM5 3NX 020 8770 6611

Creepy crafts!

www.friendsofhoneywood.co.uk/Events.htm

Sat 25 Oct – Sun 2 Nov Opening hours HORRIBLE HALF TERM ACTIVITIES Free drop in Halloween themed crafts, puzzles and trail all week throughout opening hours. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult Sun 26 Oct 2.00 – 5.00pm GRIM REAPER SCARECROW Ghoulies and ghosties galore. Come along for an afternoon of crafts, spooky stories and a Halloween bad joke trail around the house. With a Grim Reaper Scarecrow making workshop led by artist Simon Honey. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 27 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

PLUS: AN INDOOR HEATED PLAY BARN! PLENTY OF FUN, WHATEVER THE WEATHER!

Don’t Miss… Animal Handling, Goat Milking, Tractor Rides, Pony Rides, Go-Karting and Pig racing EVERYDAY! D AR AW WI NN ING !

www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

SPECIAL

OFFER

£1 off full price farm entry per person

(max 5 people) valid from 1st Sept – 24th Oct 2014.

Only with this voucher.

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

September October 2014

Halloween

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on for an updated list of local events

Making Pumpkin lanterns

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 28 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

September October 2014

Halloween

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on for an updated list of local events

LEEDS CASTLE Maidstone, Kent ME17 1PB 01622 765400 www.leeds-castle.com

Sat 25 – Fri 31 Oct Opening hours HAUNTED HALLOWEEN HUNT AND SPOOKY QUEST The Halloween Hunt takes place around the woodland walk while the Spooky Quest will involve clues from spooky characters all around the Castle Estate. A fancy dress competition for the best blood curdling outfit takes place daily at 2.00pm near the Maze, while Spooky Stories with Raggedy Jack will entertain younger children in the Playground area throughout the day. A small additional charge applies to take part in the Quest.

WHITEHALL MUSEUM

Cheam SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 www.sutton.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=10157 Wed 29 Oct 2.00 – 4.00pm HALLOWEEN ‘HOMES FOR WILDLIFE: MAKE YOUR OWN BIRD BOXES The Sutton Biodiversity Team will lead a session looking at homes for wildlife. They will help visitors to create bird boxes which can be decorated and taken home. Free event suitable for ages 5+. Booking essential Thu 31 Oct 3.00 – 5.00pm SPOOKY CRAFT & MOTH TRAPPING (PART 1) The Sutton Biodiversity Team will talk to the group about moths and their environment and setting traps. There will be a related ‘spooky animal’ craft in the house, which will be used to decorate Whitehall for Halloween. Participants are encouraged to attend the follow up session the next morning. Free event. Craft activities suitable for 4 years+. Booking essential.

MORDEN HALL PARK Morden, SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park/things-to-see-and-do/events/

Thu 30 Oct – Sun 2 Nov 11.00 – 3.00pm HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR Pumpkin carving, spooky trail and Halloween crafts. £4.00 per child.

Fri 1 Nov 10.00 – 12.00pm SPOOKY CRAFT & MOTH TRAPPING (PART 2) Traps which were set the afternoon before will be explored in detail, with a representative from the Biodiversity Team, explaining to the group about the ‘butterflies of the night’ which will, hopefully, be found. Free event suitable for all ages. Booking essential.

PENSHURST PLACE ESTATE Penshurst, Tonbridge, Kent TN11 8DG 01892 870307 www.penshurstplace.com

WITLEY CENTRE AND COMMON Witley GU8 5QA 01372 220644

Bo ck

www.waverley.gov.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/witley-and-milford-commons/

et ts Fa rm Pa

Sat 25 Oct – Sun 2 Nov 12.00 – 4.00pm (for crafts); 10.30am – dusk (for trails) SPOOKY HALF TERM FUN Find the tree spy faces and war themed pumpkins in the gardens plus spider hats, Halloween masks, gas masks and colouring in activities.

footsteps over the railway footbridge where he received his Hogwarts Express ticket; the famous film location from Kings Cross station that is now at the Watercress Line. Come dressed as a witch, wizard or Halloween spook and find out about bats, owls and all things magical. With craft activities, face painting*, Mr Wizard shows, handmade witches Besom brooms* and daily shows from the Falcon High display team. It’s great value too as fares give you all day unlimited travel. *Additional fees apply. Find out more and book your tickets in advance online or pay on the day.

POLKA THEATRE

Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB 020 8543 488 www.polkatheatre.com/workshops

Wed 29 Oct 6.00-8.00pm SPOOKY FUN Join the torchlight walk and dress up in your scariest outfit. Includes hot drinks and spooky snacks. Booking essential (meeting arrangements given on booking).

Wed 29 Oct 10.30 – 12.30pm STAGE FRIGHT WORKSHOP Get gory this Halloween. Join a professional make-up artist to make blood, wounds and scars in a workshop for the very brave and very horrible. Suitable for ages 8 – 14 year olds. £30 per child.

RHS GARDEN WISLEY

Woking, Surrey GU23 6QB 0845 260 9000 www.rhs.org.uk/wisley Sat 25 Oct – Sun 2 Nov Opening hours REPULSIVE PLANTS & FRIGHTENING FOOD October Half Term Family Fun. Because plants can’t get up and run away from their predators they have evolved an extraordinary array of defensive mechanisms against insects and animals. Learn all about caterpillar spit, carve a pumpkin, design a spider cupcake, climb a tree, hear tall stories and make a pumpkin hat. Activities vary daily; some activities require booking in advance. Visit their website for more details.

TULLEYS FARM

Turners Hill, Crawley, RH10 4PE 01342 718472 www.halloweenattractions.co.uk Sat 27 Sep – Sun 2 Nov 10.00/10.30 – 4.30pm PUMPKIN PATCH & SPOOKTOBER FEST Jam packed with pumpkins, spooky excitement, haunted houses, fun shows and the infamous Horrid Hayride through the forest. Check Tulley’s website for daily opening times. Sat 4 Oct – Sun 2 Nov 5.00/6.00pm – midnight SHOCKTOBER FEST An interactive and immersive Haunted Adventure with six main Haunted attractions, which include the infamous Haunted Hayride, four very unique haunted house experiences and the haunted field. Check Tulley’s website for daily opening times.

IT’S TIME TO BOARD THE WIZARD EXPRESS! 31st OCT - 2nd NOV

WATERCRESS LINE www.watercressline.co.uk Fri 31 Oct – Sun 2 Nov Opening hours WIZARD WEEKEND It’s time to board the Wizard Express. Watch the Watercress Line transform into a place of magic and mischief on Halloween. Walk in Harry Potter’s

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 29 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

www.watercressline.co.uk www.Families-LSB.co.uk

September October 2014

What’s On

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on for an updated list of local events

LOCAL THEATRES AND SHOWS Charles Cryer Studio Theatre

We’re going on a Bear Hunt at the Polka Theatre

39 High Street, Carshalton, SM5 3BB 020 8770 6990 www.suttontheatres.co.uk

Wed 29 Oct – Sat 1 Nov

Eve:7.45pm; Thu and Sat matinee: 2.30pm

Wed 29 – Thu 30 Oct

10.00am, 1.00pm & 4.00pm

Octonauts and The Deep Sea Volcano Adventure

The Wind In The Willows

Join Mole, Rat, Badger and the inimitable Toad in Alan Bennett’s delightful adaptation of the beloved story.

Get ready to embark on an exciting new mission with our underwater adventure super heroes, Captain Barnacles, Kwazii and Peso, in the brand new live stage show. Visit new worlds full of mysteries to unravel, with surprises around every corner. This action-packed interactive show features music and all your favourite characters live on stage for the very first time. Adults; £15.50; Children: £13.50; Family ticket £54.00 (£1.50 Booking fee per ticket)

The Colour House Children’s Theatre Merton Abbey Mills, Watermill Way, London SW19 2RD 020 8542 5511 www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk

Sat 6 Sep – Sun 9 Nov (Sats & Suns only) 2.00pm & 4.00pm

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

The Harlequin Theatre & Cinema

This classic story gets the full Colour House treatment when Snow White who is lost and alone in the woods befriends 7 dwarves whilst the deranged evil Queen is in hot pursuit.

Warwick Quadrant, Redhill RH1 1NN 01737 276500 www.harlequintheatre.co.uk

Thu 11 – Sun 14 Sep (various times)

Epsom Playhouse

Ashley Avenue, Epsom, Surrey KT18 5AL 01372 742555 / 742227 www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk

Sat 6 Sep 2.30pm

Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain toe-tapping music, hilarious banter and sheer superlative entertainment.

Andy and Mikes Tick Tock Time Machine

Tue 7 – Wed 8 Oct (various times)

Sun 19 Oct 2.30pm

Meet a wheeler-dealer Fox, an eccentric old Owl and amaracashaking, party mad Snake. Mouse can scare these hungry animals away with tall stories of the terrifying Gruffalo, but what happens when he comes face to face with the very creature he imagined? The Gruffalo is the perfect family treat with plenty of songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 3+ and their grown-ups.

Following their smash-hit show, Andy and Mike’s... Big Box of Bananas, the dynamic duo brings you another brilliant adventure, and this time they have a time machine.

The Snow Queen

Filled with the strange beauty of icecold winter and the warmth of true love, this Hans Christian Anderson fairy tale translates perfectly into one of Image Musical Theatre’s much loved participation musicals.

Fri 24 Oct 7.30pm

Sleeping Beauty

In a faraway land beyond imagination, Tchaikovsky’s sumptuous music fills the air and wondrous characters come to life before your very eyes. The classic fairytale performed by Moscow Ballet – La Classique.

join Gerda for an epic adventure, as she battles the elements, overcomes great distances and makes friends with some whacky characters to save her brother from the evil Snow Queen.

The Gruffalo

Sun 19 Oct 3.30pm

Arthur Davison Family Concert: Around the World in 80¾ Minutes

A whirlwind trip around the world visiting faraway places such as the Rio Carnival, the Ruins of Athens, the Javanese Dragon Festival as well as a host of other exotic locations.

Sun 26 Oct 4.00pm

The Snow Queen

The new musical which tells the captivating and heart-warming story of family, friendship and the triumph of love over evil. Wrap up warm as we

The Gruffalo at Fairfield Halls

Wed 22 – Sat 25 Oct 7.30pm

The Addams Family: The Musical

Based on the original TV series and inspired by the Hollywood Films of the early 90’s this production features an original story...and it’s every father’s nightmare. Bring your children dressed up in Halloween costume to the performance on Friday and win an Addams Family prize for the best costume. See www.esosoc.org.uk for more details.

Wed 29 Oct 2.30pm

The Snow Queen

An Image Musical Theatre participation musical.

Sat 8 Nov 11.00am & 2.00pm

The Chris & Pui Show

CBeebies’ favourite double act is bringing songs, rhymes, comedy sketches and lots of joining in for all the family in their new show.

Sat 8 Nov 2.30pm

Old MacDonald had a farm

New Wimbledon Theatre

The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1QG 0870 060 6646 www.newwimbledontheatre.co.uk

Old MacDonald had a farm E-I-E-I-O. But Old MacDonald’s animals have gone missing. Can you help a friendly scientist and his amazing time machine get them back for him?

Tue 9 – Sat 13 Sep (various times)

Annie Get Your Gun

Fairfield Halls

When Buffalo Bill’s Wild West show comes to town, it only takes one glance for sharp-shooting country girl Annie Oakley to fall head over heels for its star marksman, Frank Butler. Both have truly met their match, revealing their competitive natures as they vie for best shot – and each other’s hearts.

Park Lane, Croydon, CR9 1DG 020 8688 9291 www.fairfield.co.uk

Wed 17 Sep 7.30pm

Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain

The world renowned all-singing, allplucking superstars return with their mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 30 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

A brand new show with all new amazing 3D effects. It’s the horrible history of Britain with the nasty bits left in.

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

September October 2014

What’s On

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on for an updated list of local events

LOCAL THEATRES

Tue 14 – Sat 18 Oct (various times)

Barnum

This exhilarating musical follows the irrepressible imagination and dreams of Phineas T Barnum, America’s Greatest Showman.

Polka Theatre

240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com

Wed 24 Sep – Sun 12 Oct (various times)

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt

We’re going on a bear hunt. We’re going to catch a big one. What a beautiful day. We’re not scared. Michael Rosen’s thrilling and funny adventure comes to life in this entrancing puppetry production from Little Angel Theatre, directed by Peter Glanville and with music and lyrics by celebrated singer-songwriter Barb Jungr. Age Recommendation: 3 – 7

Wed 24 – Fri 26 Sep (for ages 6 months – 2 years) (various times)

Sparkle

hidden treasure. A gentle, interactive performance and play session for babies, toddlers and young children by Alison McGowan of PuppetShip and visual artist Tanya Axford.

Wed 8 Oct – Sun 8 Feb 2015 (various times)

Grandad, Me...and Teddy Too

Mia loves her Grandad very much. He lives far away, on the other side of the world, but finally he’s coming to stay and Mia’s excitement is growing. Join Grandad, Mia (and Teddy Too) as they share an unforgettable adventure to wherever their imaginations take them.

Thu 16 Oct – Sat 1 Nov (various times)

Flat Stanley

In the Lambchop household the world is sunny side up. That is until a notice board flattens Stanley to 4 feet tall, a foot wide and half an inch thick. Suitable for ages 5 – 10 years.

Scan the code

Sat 27 – Sun 28 Sep (for ages 3 – 4 years) (various times)

For a wealth of ideas on what to do with families locally, scan the code into your smartphone

Sparkle

Welcome aboard for a sparkling adventure around the Islands of Objects. Meet the fantastic creatures living there and keep a look out for

HOLIDAY CLUBS AND CLASSES Polka Theatre

Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com/workshops Thu 30 Oct 9.45 – 10.45am (ages 2 – 3 years); 11.00 – 12.00pm (ages 4 – 5 years) Teddy, Toys and Tales A family workshop inspired by Polka’s winter show Grandad, Me... and Teddy Too. Bring along your own treasured teddy or toy for an imaginative, interactive storytelling adventure starring you, Grandad and teddy too.

Perform

St Stephen’s Millennium Hall, College Road, Dulwich, London SE21 7HW 0845 400 1273 www.perform.org.uk Mon 27 – Wed 29 Oct 2.30 – 4.30pm The Ice Queen This October, give your child a treat to remember with an enchanting Ice Queen holiday course. Whether they’re creating a dazzling ice palace or whooshing downhill on a reindeer sleigh, Perform’s energetic team of actors, musicians and dancers will be with them every step of the way to inspire and encourage. Suitable for ages 4 – 8 years. Book online.

Southern Tutors

Courses held at Rosebery School, Epsom 01372 72 1119/07986 564 651 www.southerntutors.co.uk Mon 27 – Wed 29 Oct 9.30 – 3.30pm Intensive 11 Plus courses Verbal and non-verbal reasoning, Maths

and English classes for 9 & 10 year olds. Fees vary according to number of days attended. Contact the tutors (not the school) for further details.

Supercamps: Multi-Activity Camps

Homefield Prep School, Sutton Royal Russell School, Croydon Whitgift School, Haling Park, Sth Croydon 01235 832222 www.supercamps.co.uk Mon 27 – Fri 31 Oct 9.00 – 5.00pm with extended hours (8.00 – 6.00pm) available, contact them for details. Action-packed camps with over 40 activities on offer (sports, arts & crafts). You can book individual days or full weeks. For children aged 4 – 14 (only 4 – 11 at Wimbledon). See their website for details.

Supercamps: Raw Adventure Camp

Royal Russell School, Croydon 01235 832222 www.supercamps.co.uk Mon 27 – Fri 31 Oct 9.00 – 5.00pm with extended hours (8.00 – 6.00pm) available, contact them for details. Aimed at children aged from 7 – 14. ‘Raw Adventure’ is a unique opportunity for children to leave behind the technology and pressures of a modern society and re-kindle a diminishing respect and understanding of nature, learning skills that will enable them to develop, mature and succeed in all walks of life. £20 per child.

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10+ Mock Tests

Ideal for pupils new to Year 5 Dates: Sat 27th Sept & Sat 25th Oct 2014 Where: Laleham Lea School, Purley CR8 3JJ Time: 9.30am – 1pm

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Southern Tutors Saturday and Holiday 11plus courses. GCSE. A level. 01372 721119 07986 564 651 info@southerntutors.co.uk www.southerntutors.co.uk

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