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Jubilee events Holiday activities Learn to swim What’s on locally Issue 316 May/June 2022

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Our kids. Our community. Become a foster parent. To ﬁnd out more: Call (020) 8871 6666 wandsworth.gov.uk/fostering fosteringrecruitment@wandsworth.gov.uk

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In this issue 4&5

8-22

Top birthday parties for children

Jubilee events

Education

Boarding: what is it really like?

27-29

30-33

36-39

Swimming feature

Clubs & Classes

May Half term activities

Summer camps and courses

42-47

Exploring cultures through food

Competitions

What’s On

Events, shows & concerts, museums, baby activities

To advertise: 020 8696 9680 | Editorial: editor@FamiliesSW.co.uk | Adverts/Artwork: adverts@FamiliesSW.co.uk Events/DiaryDates/What’sOn: whatson@FamiliesSW.co.uk | Next Issue: July / August 2022 | ISSN1354-9553. | All contents ©FamiliesSW 2022. familiesonline.co.uk

FamiliesSWLondon

May/June 2022 • Families South West 3

TOP

birthday parties for children Compiled by Melissa Reynolds

1. The

Little ones love to celebrate their birthdays, and other people’s too! Southwest London is full of some fun, adventurous, and magical places to celebrate your child’s big day!

Living Room 19

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www.thelivingr oom.pl a ce 020 3889 9814

A place n t, lear to mee re and inspi r... r each othe

1. The Fairy House For everyone that loves faeries, sprites and woodland creatures, The Fairy House is where you want to celebrate! Party goers will get to make crafts, search for hidden treasures, throw pennies into the wishing well, and stir up some fairy potions! All busy fairies get hungry, and The Fairy House is full of nibbles and drinks including fairy cupcakes and drinks for mums and dads. The birthday boy/girl will receive their special crown when leaving. Location: 50 Webb's Rd, London SW11 6SF Contact: www.fairytalefriends.co.uk

2. The Living Room Place Looking to throw your own party but don’t have enough room at home? The Living Room is ideal for the smaller parties, like ﬁrst and second birthdays, where parties are more intimate, and with fewer people. It is a kind of home from home place, clean and cosy, with white walls and easy to decorate. Spread over two ﬂoors, it comes with sofas, tables, chairs, and a fully furnished kitchen which helps reduce costs. Location: 19 Thrale Road, Furzedown, London, SW16 1NS Contact: www.thelivingroom.place

3. Bounceagogo Bounceagogo offers their parties Bounceagogo, Discoagogo, Nerfagogo, and Discoagogo Club in Raynes Park, Wandsworth, and Chessington. From soft play, ride ons, inﬂatables, dancing, nerf guns, party food, and more, Bounceagogo offers a fun and energetic party! Food, drinks, tea, and coffee are included in the party packages, parents need only supply the cake. Location : Bodnant Gardens, Raynes Park, London, SW20 0JD Contact: www.bounceagogo.co.uk

4. Battersea Park Zoo Although temporarily on hold, Battersea Park Zoo is perfect for little animal lovers. Party goers can enjoy a tour of the zoo, while meeting all their residents. Help the zookeeper feed the animals dinner, meet an animal up close and take part in some craft time. The birthday child gets to paint a brick on the Birthday Wall of Fame and guests can stay after the party and enjoy the zoo. Food and goody bags included. Location: Chelsea Bridge Gate, Battersea, London, SW11 4NJ Contact: www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk

5. The Little Gym A Little Gym birthday party keeps your little ones moving! With full run of the facility, children can enjoy instructor-led games, music and fun LEGO building activities. Set up and clean up are all included in your package. Location: Various locations throughout London Contact: www.thelittlegym.com

4. 5.

6. Bushcraft Parties Your little outdoor explorer can enjoy all nature has to offer with a Bushcraft Party. Held in any outdoor space, party goers can take part in shelter building, bow and arrow making, ﬁre lighting, marshmallow toasting, tug of war, games and activities, and even some bug eating! Children aged 7 and up can even enjoy a woodworking party where they can use real tools and create their own special piece. Location: 71 Brookﬁeld Crescent, London, NW7 2DE Contact: www.bushcraftparties.com 4 Families South West • May/June 2022

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10.

7. Gambado Birthday parties are a big deal at Gambado! With ﬁve party packages to choose from, there is something for everyone. All parties are two hours long with a mix of free play, bear making, foam darts, laser tag, arts and crafts, and food and drink time. The mix of activities depend on the package chosen. Online printable invites and thank you cards included with all packages. Location: 7 Station Court, Townmead Road, Chelsea, London, SW6 2PY Contact: www.gambado.com

8. Clip ‘n Climb Enjoy a climbing good time with a Clip ‘n Climb party! Either book exclusive use of their venue or share with other climbers. Add on the double decker party bus to enjoy food and drinks after your climb. Don’t forget to book your DropSlide tickets and enjoy! Location: 19 Michael Road, London, SW6 2ER Contact: www.clipnclimbchelsea.co.uk

9. Bocketts Farm Park A day at the park is just what little ones need to celebrate their special day. Party goers can enjoy private small animal encounters, a birthday lunch in a decorated party room, Bocketts balloons and animal masks and all the farm has to offer. Extras include a tractor ride, party bags and cake, as well as other options. Location: Young Street, Fetcham, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 9BS Contact: www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

10. Bertie and Boo Bertie and Boo is the place to go for a bit of magic. Ideal for children aged 4-6 years, the party begins with 40 minutes of interactive play full of treasure hunts, disco dancing and more! A picnic tea follows in piratethemed treasure chests and then it’s on to the magic show! Use of the entire building is included, and laser tag can be added on to your party package. Location: 205-207 Balham High Road, Balham, London, SW17 7BQ Contact: www.bertieandboo.com

10% discount with code FAM10

Bring the party to you! Sometimes it’s more comfortable to keep the festivities at home. Here are ﬁve fun local businesses that can bring the party to your little one. 1. Trinkets Kids Jewellery Making – Suitable for children aged 6 and up, Trinkets brings all their jewellery making supplies to you! Kids can make necklaces, charm bracelets, earrings and more. @trinketskids. 2. Grumpy But Gorgeous Pamper Parties – Any little spa lover will relish the idea of a few hours of pampering. From manicures, pedicures, massages, facials and more, your beauty queen will be pampered indeed! www.grumpybutgorgeous.com 3. Funky Potters – Pottery enthusiasts can choose from party animals, mugs, cereal bowls, plates, jewellery boxes, and more to paint! The birthday child receives a gift and catering is available. www.funkypotters.com 4. Safari Pete – With Safari Pete, the zoo comes to you. Children can meet snakes, a meerkat, toads, owls, and a tarantula! Animals are vetchecked and can be safely handled. www.safaripete.co.uk

Pappa Ciccia PIZZA DELIVERY Free delivery of delicious authentic Italian pizza Kids voted Pappa Ciccia’s pizza as their favourite party food. Gluten free and vegan options. Visit our family-friendly restaurants in Fulham where a warm welcome awaits you. #familybusiness #supportlocal #comfortfood #EatLocal

www.pappaciccia.com Restaurants • Private Catering For full event catering visit pappacicciacatering.com

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5. Blueberry Playsongs - Blueberry entertainers will play guitar and sing songs with actions, joining in, jumping, rhythm games, circle games, dancing with bubbles and a special appearance by one of their gang of puppets! They can also bring along a colourful parachute if space permits and a bag of shaky egg maracas. www.blueberryplaysongs.co.uk

Perfect parties for little ones! •Fun live music •For 0-5 yrs •Instruments & props •Award winning musicians info@blueberryplaysongs.co.uk 07565 377 451

May/June 2022 • Families South West 5

SPECIAL EVENT

THE QUEEN’S PLATINUM JUBILEE Trooping the Colour From Buckingham Palace to Horse Guard’s Parade SW1 2 June Over 1,400 parading soldiers, 200 horses and 400 musicians will come together in the traditional Parade to mark The Queen’s official birthday, usually held on the second Saturday in June. The Parade will close with the traditional RAF fly-past, watched by The Queen and Members of the Royal Family from the Buckingham Palace balcony. Ticketed and televised event. Museum of Brands Lancaster Road W11 1QT www.museumofbrands.com

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Make a crown, don your best airs and graces and prepare to celebrate as the country pays tribute to Her Majesty The Queen. A summer of celebrations will mark 70 years of service to the people of the United Kingdom, the Realms and the Commonwealth.

From 21 May 200 Years of Royal Souvenirs See how UK consumer culture and Royal history have changed since the Victorian era, through a fascinating display of Royal-inspired packaging and souvenirs, complete with a children’s trail. 2-6 June Children go free, try some object handling, make your own bunting and crown.

Celebrate at Hever Castle Hever Castle, Kent TN8 7NG www.hevercastle.co.uk

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2-5 June Where better to celebrate the Jubilee than the home of two former queens of England - Anne Boleyn and Anne of Cleves. Follow a free trial to spot mischievous Corgi dogs, crowns, jewels and queens. It isn’t a celebration without food, so take your own party food and join a ‘street party’ style picnic fit for royalty. Party at the Palace On BBC TV at your own ‘palace’ 4 June The BBC will stage and broadcast a special live concert from Buckingham Palace, bringing together some of the world’s biggest entertainment stars to celebrate the most significant and joyous moments from The Queen’s seven decade reign.

Reuthe’s Lost Gardens of Sevenoaks Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0HB www.allevents.in 4+5 June Platinum Jubilee Family Fun Weekender Two days of fun including live music, Jubilee craft activities, a children’s party, alpaca meet and greet; a huge beer garden and Kent’s longest picnic blanket for your own royal feast.

Platinum Pageant Buckingham Palace SW1A 1AA www.platinumpageant.com 5 June The Platinum Pageant will combine street arts, theatre, music, circus, carnival and costume to celebrate Her Majesty’s unwavering duty, love of the natural world and dedication to the Commonwealth. No booking required.

To celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, Enable and Wandsworth Council will be participating in The Big Jubilee Lunch on the 5th of June, providing free lunchtime entertainment to make for the perfect summer picnic. Battersea Park 12.30pm and Coronation Gardens 1pm – World Heart Beat Music Academy Tooting Common 1pm – New Orleans Marching Band Wandsworth Common 1pm – Otto and the Matapa Calling Furzedown Recreation Ground 2pm – Rebecca Wing’s Jazz Band Latest info on @enableparks

The Big Jubilee Lunch www.edenprojectcommunities.com /thebig-jubilee-lunch 2-5 June It’s the party that’s right up your street, and everyone’s invited. Across streets, gardens and neighbourhoods, people will gather to have fun and get to know one another a little better. This year’s Big Lunch is set to be a right royal knees-up! Sign for a free organisers’ pack or find a local event.

Hampton Court Palace East Molesey KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk 1-5 June Jubilee Joust Witness the sport of kings as knights from around the country joust to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. Pick your favourite knight and cheer them on as they compete for the coveted Jubilee Cup. Pomp, ceremony and splendour will reign supreme at this family friendly event within the spectacular palace gardens. May/June 2022 • Families South West 7

BILINGUAL NURSERY SCHOOL FRENCH AND BILINGUAL CLASSES

“Children become highly conﬁdent bilingual communicators” (OFSTED)

Afterschool care till 6pm BILINGUAL EDUCATION IS FOR EVERYONE 64 Garfield Road SW11 5PN London 8 Families South West • May/June 2022

L’ECOLE DU PARC BILINGUAL SCHOOLS HAVE BEEN WELCOMING CHILDREN FROM 2 TO 5 YEARS OLD FOR 20 YEARS IN A WARM AND NURTURING ENVIRONMENT THAT COMBINES THE BEST OF THE FRENCH AND BRITISH SYSTEMS.

WWW.ECOLEDUPARC.CO.UK 0207 993 6460 2 Stormont Road SW11 5EN London familiesonline.co.uk

EDUCATION

Understanding executive function By Usha Patel Executive functioning is a way of describing the series of mental processes that are required to complete a task. Broadly speaking, executive function skills involve selfcontrol, working memory and flexible thinking. Children labelled with a learning or behavioural problem will often display issues with their executive functioning, for example, in staying organised and focused. But many of the symptoms that parents may be told to medicate away are, in fact, executive functioning problems that might respond to a di erent kind of therapy. These are the kids who lose the homework they stu ed into overflowing backpacks. Or the children who realise at 9pm that they need supplies for a vital project due the next day. When the tasks of daily life become unbearable, they melt down in a convulsion of emotion. Whether the diagnosis is ADD, dyslexia or something else, these kids share a common problem: they just can’t manage the simple daily tasks that come easily to some of us. Many children experience problems with their executive functioning, regardless of whether they have an underlying condition. Di iculty with one skill usually manifests across lots of di erent areas of a child’s life. For example, a child who has di iculty with time management is likely to both struggle to be on time and be unable to estimate how long a task will take. Executive function di iculties seem pervasive but I believe it is possible to deconstruct their symptoms and pinpoint cognitive

skills that can be strengthened using the latest research. These di iculties are manageable and respond well to intervention. The first step is to observe your child and their behaviour, look for any executive functioning problems and then talk to them about their di iculties. A child’s struggles can come from a variety of sources but these may be mysterious and frustrating for both you and your child and the source may be di icult to pinpoint. However, the chances are there is an underlying cognitive skill that needs strengthening. By understanding the root cause of the problem, you can then implement helpful therapies. You may find it helpful to download my self-assessment that highlights behaviours associated with executive functioning problems. You can find this at https://bit.ly/exfuinfo Usha Patel is a neurocognitive therapist and expert in executive functioning, along with other special educational needs. She runs Raviv Practice London (www.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk).

What is executive function?

Identifying executive function weaknesses

If you think about the structure of a large company, it’s easy to understand the term executive function. Just as the executive team of a corporation manages and co-ordinates the various departments around a common goal, your brain’s executive functions co-ordinate di erent cognitive abilities around your goals. You require these skills to set and achieve goals, whether modest or ambitious.

Rule out learning disorders It’s possible your child isn’t turning in homework because they don’t understand the subject and are embarrassed to ask for help. It isn’t uncommon, for example, for children gifted in the arts to have a learning disability when it comes to maths.

Society creates structures for children that mimic adulthood in part to help them develop their executive function skills. School, sport and other activities help children create and work towards goals.

Rule out emotional issues Perhaps a bully is targeting your child. Maybe they’re too anxious to read their homework out loud. Maybe they’re concerned the teacher dislikes them and will give them a bad grade. Children’s emotional pain may not make sense to us but it’s very real to them.

Here are some key areas of your child’s life where executive function can help: Paying attention in class or at home; Managing time and prioritising tasks, such as homework; Being organised and planning ahead; Remembering tasks and chores; Starting tasks and staying focused on them; Controlling emotions; Understanding both their and other’s emotions.

Understand the patterns There is an unmistakable pattern to executive function problems in children. If your child often loses their homework and their bedroom is always a mess, this may indicate problems with organising. If they can’t resist playing video games or another fun activity until homework is finished, then they may have trouble with self-control. If that’s the case, then they will probably want to eat dessert before dinner too!

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May/June 2022 • Families South West 9

INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL FOR GIRLS AGED 11-18

PREPARATORY SCHOOL FOR BOYS AND GIRLS AGED 2½–11

Independent Secondary School of the Year 2020 SUNDAY TIMES

Small Big Family BOOK A TOUR: www.redcliffegardens.com Godolphin and Latymer Redcliffe Gardens School 47 Redcliffe Gardens London SW10 9JH

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Godolphin and Latymer London W6 0PG

We are a creative and progressive school, allw ways nurturing and proud to be non-selective.

10 Families South West • May/June 2022

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Summ mer open events 11+ Wednesda e y 15th June Junior school Friday 17th June

AN A LEVEL & IB SCHOOL · SW199 4TT · BOYS 7-18 · GIRLS 16 -18 · KCS.ORG.UK

Independent Education with a Catholic Ethos for Girls 11-18

OPEN DAY 11+ & 13+ Entry Saturday 24 September 2022, from 9.30 am to 12.30 pm Register with us admissions@thelaurelsschool.org

Small groups and family visits available Our Lady’s Close, London SE19 3FA | 020 8674 7229 | thelaurelsschool.org.uk

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May/June 2022 • Families South West 11

EDUCATION

School open days for your diaries The White House Preparatory School. Balham. 2.5-11yrs. Co-educational. Open day 7 May 9.30-11.30am. Contact admissions@whitehouseschool.com to register. Heathﬁeld School. Ascot. Open morning 7 May. Boarding and day school for girls 11-18yrs. Heathﬁeldschool.net

The Study The Study is a well-established independent school for girls aged four to eleven in the heart of Wimbledon Village. Their four core values— compassion, curiosity, creativity and courage— encapsulate what it really means to be a Study girl. The best way to get a feel for life at the school is to go and visit them. In the Summer term they will be offering regular small group tours of Wilberforce House with the Head, typically on Tuesday mornings, to allow prospective parents to see the facilities and school life in action. They can also offer individual tours of Spencer House for families looking to join from Year 4 upwards and virtual meetings with the Head if you’re overseas or unable to visit. The next Open Morning will take place in the Autumn term on Saturday 1 October. Wilberforce House, Camp Road, Wimbledon Common, SW19 4UN www.thestudyprep.co.uk

School tests don’t affect wellbeing Primary school tests do not seem to have a significant effect on the wellbeing and happiness of children, a study has found. Research conducted by University College London suggested that there was little difference in levels of wellbeing and happiness reported by children, regardless of whether they took Key Stage two tests or not. Children in Year 6 in England who took SATs tests did not experience any significant change in how they felt about themselves, their family lives and their school in the weeks surrounding the tests, the study discovered. Researchers say that there does not seem to be sufficient evidence to support getting rid of SATs tests ‘on wellbeing grounds,’ in spite of calls from both parents and teachers to scrap the compulsory assessments. The research also found, there was no evidence to show that pupils who were happier or more self-confident in the build-up to the tests achieved higher scores. www.york.ac.uk/news-and-events

New home for Thames Christian School The Winstanley and York Road regeneration, a key project for Wandworth council, is moving forward nicely as both the Battersea Baptist Church and Thames Christian College vacated the buildings in Pennethorne Square. They have now both relocated to a new shared building on Grant Road, Clapham.

Thames Christian pupils now enjoy state of the art facilities: at ﬁve times the ﬂoor area of their old facilities, the new space includes multiple science laboratories, DT workshops, a food technology room, library, PE hall/theatre and a dance/drama studio. As well as A levels from September 2023, their new sixth form will offer a co-curricular and pastoral programme that will see pupils further develop their leadership skills and understanding of the world so that they are prepared for a successful future. Stephen Holsgrove, Headteacher at Thames Christian College said: “The unique architectural design provides visual connection throughout the space enabling the school to retain its relational ethos and family feel as it grows.” www.thameschristianschool.org.uk

12 Families South West • May/June 2022

Ernest Bevin College. Tooting. A secondary school and sixth form. The school is all-boys for ages 11 through 16, but has a co-educational sixth form. Sixth Form open event 30 June, 6.30-9pm. https://ernestbevin.london Parsons Green Prep School. Independent School. Open Day May 21 at 9.30am. See the brand new reception classrooms, dedicated STEAM room and library. Contact the school to book a place. www.parsonsgreenprep.co.uk Dolphin School. 4-11yrs, co-ed. Open Day Tuesday 24 May 9.15 - 10.50. To book a place contact the Registrar, Mrs Benson, at admissions@dolphinschool.org.uk The Laurels School. SE19, school bus includes Chelsea, Battersea, Clapham and Balham areas. Independent Education with a Catholic ethos for girls 11-18yrs. Open day for 11+ and 13+ 2023 entry. 24 September 9.30am to 12.30pm. Small groups and family visits available. Register by emailing admissions@thelaurelsschool.org Parkgate House School. Independent co-educational nursery and preparatory school for 2.5 -11yrs. Now accepting applications for 2023 reception places. To arrange a private tour contact admissions on 020 7350 2461. Prince’s Gardens Preparatory School. South Kensington. Open day on 14 May. 10-11.30am. Book very soon as we understand it is fast ﬁlling up. Hear from Headmistress Mrs Melrose, meet some of the teachers and have a tour of the school. There will be tea and coffee, a tour, and the chance for children to play in the garden. Register online at www.princesgardensprep.co.uk or talk to the admissions team by calling 020 7591 4620 or emailing admissions@princesgardensprep.co.uk

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Sponsored feature

Phil Barr

Meet THE head

Headmaster

Donhead Preparatory School

Since 1933, Donhead has been a Jesuit school educating boys. The school aims to ensure every boy is recognised for their individual talents and believes in creating the leaders of tomorrow. Phil Barr has been Head since Sept 2017 and involved in middle and senior leadership in Jesuit schools since 2007.

Q: How do you think a Headteacher can make a difference to an individual student? It is important for a Head, particularly in a Primary setting, to know his or her students. My job is to provide an environment where all students can shine and ensure the culture recognises achievement in all forms. Knowing and praising a pupil for some independent outreach is as important as celebrating scholars. Q: What have you been most proud of since joining Donhead school as Headteacher? It is very difficult to look past the incredible work we did during lockdown. I am so proud of the staff and their willingness to upskill and offer all lessons and activities virtually. In addition, the incredible support from our parents ensured the boys had a positive experience during some very challenging times. Q: Premier League or Last Night at the Proms? Premier League although more Championship as I am a season ticket holder at QPR. Q: What was it about the school that made you want to apply for the position? My knowledge and ﬁrsthand experience of Jesuit Education. The USP of these schools is the emphasis on the development of the whole person. So, whilst academic excellence is important, it is no more important than becoming a good human being who will contribute positively to society. In my humble opinion, this is education in its truest sense and hence I am here!

Mr Barr welcomes all parents for a personal tour of the school, and insight into their Jesuit ethos and community.

You can ﬁnd out more about Donhead by visiting www.Donhead.org.uk or following them on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

Email headmasterpa@donhead.org.uk or call 020 8946 7000.

Q: How would the students describe you? This is a tricky question and one I use when interviewing. I’d like to think they would say he is ﬁrm but fair, knows all our names and greets us everyday with a smile. Q: What is something about yourself that no one else knows? When I was 11, I performed on stage at the Lyric Theatre in Hammersmith with Sarah Brightman

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May/June 2022 • Families South West 13

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EDUCATION Head, Mr Dunhill, Deputy Head, Mrs Glencross and pupils from Redcliffe Gardens School meeting HRH Prince Charles.

programme. On Monday evenings, Head, Mr Dunhill, has been teaching English to the refugees, and staff and parents from Redcliffe have been donating and helping to sort the clothes for distribution. The school has raised much-needed funds to send to help the families left destitute by the war in Ukraine and all proceeds from its Easter disco—tickets sales, refreshments, and glow sticks!—went to the appeal.

Redcliffe Gardens School welcomes His Royal Highness, Prince Charles At the end of the Spring Term, pupils from Redcliffe Gardens School were honoured to be part of a welcoming party for His Royal Highness, Prince Charles who was visiting St Luke’s Church in Earls Court. HRH Prince Charles came to see the work being carried out by Rev. Dave Matthews and his team to support refugees being housed in the borough and to meet with the refugees and asylum seekers.

The Prince of Wales learned more about the work of the Refugee Response program which supports people who have ﬂed conﬂict and disaster worldwide including from Yemen, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Somalia, Sudan and now, Ukraine. The nursery and Pre-Prep of Redcliffe Gardens School is situated in the purpose-built undercroft of St Luke’s Church and the school is a very active supporter of the

Four lucky Redcliffe pupils were drawn from a ballot to meet Prince Charles along with Mr Dunhill and Deputy Head Mrs Glencross, and they were all very excited when HRH came to shake their hands and to say a few words. The party then went upstairs into the church to hear a short address by the Prince and to join in a prayer led by Rev. Dave Matthews for all those who have had to ﬂee their countries. In every respect this was a day to remember for the Redcliffe community.

To ﬁnd out more about Redcliffe Gardens School or to book a tour, please visit www.redcliffegardens.com or telephone 020 7352 9247.

Ernest Bevin College — an inclusive community school providing excellence in education and opportunities for all. Families asked Ernest Bevin to tell us what the school has achieved recently: Ernest Bevin College (EBC) is a boys’ secondary school which beneﬁts from having a coeducational Sixth Form college attached to it. The college is very mixed in terms of ethnicity, religious beliefs and background, and in the Sixth Form the co-educational setting of male and female students enhances this diversity further. We have recorded over 60 different languages that are spoken in the college. The Sixth Form has approximately 250 students on roll. We provide a rich and bespoke curriculum for all learners who chose to study here. Our main aim is to support our students to achieve their goals and aspirations beyond the college, so ensuring that we cater for all learners is very important for us. We have a history of helping students ﬁnd their chosen destination, whether it be a Russell Group university, an apprenticeship or college, or a profession in the world of work. A wealth of opportunities for all We always strive to raise the educational attainment and well-being amongst all our pupils in their time with us. We are very proud to specialise in STEM subjects, with excellence familiesonline.co.uk

in teaching Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. EBC also has a strong focus on sport, offering a wide range of sporting opportunities to Sixth Form students. The college has a thriving Cricket Academy with students developing their skills by working with professional coaches, with other activities including access to the college swimming pool, badminton lessons and ﬁtness sessions using workout equipment. Having students in leadership positions is a strength we are very proud of. Sixth Form students who are appointed in leadership positions are very much a part of the decision making, becoming involved in discussions with the staff team. Our current student team is working tirelessly across the whole school to help shape the Ernest Bevin Values of respect, tolerance, opportunity, resilience and happiness, becoming involved in organizing activities for younger students and arranging charity initiatives, such as fundraising for a local food bank. The next Sixth Form open event is on June 30th at 6pm. ernestbevin.london FamiliesSWLon

EBC mentoring in progress

Helping with Food Bank donations

May/June 2022 • Families South West 15

OPEN MORNING Boarding and Day for Girls 11-18

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“This is the classic authentic boarding g school experience, but with 21st centur e y ﬂourish and ple enty of TLC.”

PERFORM AT AT YOUR BEST WEEKL LY Y BOARDING AND EXCE ELLENT ACADEMICS SUPP PORTED BY A FUL LL PROGRAMME OF MUSIC C, ART RT T,, DESIGN, SPORT AN ND DRAMA.

ADMISSIONS@CRANLE EIGH.ORG OR WWW.CRANLEIGH.ORG | 01438 276377

16 Families South West • May/June 2022

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BOARDING SCHOOLS By Alicia Coad

Boarding school – what is it really like?

hen you think of boarding school, do you think of children being packed off for weeks on end to a place with cold showers? Does the idea fill you with horror as you picture homesick children longing to be with their family and friends? Perhaps you question why anyone would choose to send their child away? If so, you’ll be interested to discover what boarding is like in the modern day world and how it might be worth considering for you and your family. In the interests of full disclosure, I have three children: one a full-time boarder, one a flexiboarder and one a day pupil. I did not go to boarding school (but my husband did) and, years ago, had someone suggested that I would send my children away to school, I would have dismissed it without further thought: I had no understanding of the modern day boarding experience. Boarding school no longer means ivory towers and outdated uniforms. According to the latest Independent Schools Council (ISC) census, there are now 458 schools in the UK offering boarding and 34 state run boarding schools. Boarding has evolved in recent years in order to adapt to the needs of the modern day family. Gone are the days when children couldn’t see their parents and could contact them only by letter. Today’s boarding welcomes the entire family and involves parents in their child’s schooling—in the same way day schools do and, in some cases, perhaps even more with (pre-pandemic) a range of invitations and opportunities to see your child compete in sports fixtures and perform in music concerts or school productions. Modern life is stressful for parents. As your family increases in age (and often size), many

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parents find themselves operating a tight, army-like schedule of drop offs, pick-ups, homework, extra-curricular activities, meals (often at different times for different children), kits and instruments. Lockdown highlighted what a relief it was for many families to move into a slower pace of life, spend less time operating as a taxi service and reduce petrol costs! Many parents also mentioned that the time spent with their children was of higher quality. Well, boarding school can offer similar benefits for the whole family. It removes many of the logistical and transactional challenges of family life enabling parents to spend quality time with their child, rather than time spent nagging about homework, driving them around or washing or cooking for them. Still not convinced? Let’s look in turn at a few areas that can make parents uneasy. Food Boarding schools now offer high quality food with a range of choices, catering for allergies and different tastes. At the weekends, boarding schools will often order in takeaway for whole houses. Indeed, one boarding school (which will remain nameless), has a fifty percent discount at another nameless famous pizza chain due to it being their best customer! Additionally, many boarding houses have kitchens in which children can make their own snacks should they wish to, with the option to bring in their own food at the weekend. Uniform and rules Rules from boarding schools are often found circulating on the internet and shared amongst old boys and girls who laugh at how strict their schools were. Boarding today, in most cases, has rules which complement the modern day,

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with children allowed out (age appropriately), able to socialise with friends and have access to Wifi. Equally, many pupils are not required to wear uniform when not in formal school lessons. Interestingly though, you will find many boarding school children dressed in their school hoodie—showing how proud they are of their school! Accommodation It is true that boarding accommodation in some schools does remain rather stark, but many schools have new modern boarding houses including ensuites. Even those in older accommodation have a very different feel to what might come to mind when envisaging a dormitory. The dormitories for the younger years usually have between four and eight children, including personal space for each child which they can personalise in the form of posters, photos and duvets, giving it a homely feel. From Year 10 and above, children will share with only one other child and in Sixth Form usually have their own room. Choosing your child’s school is always a difficult and important decision for a myriad of reasons and ultimately one which involves a lot of thought, consideration and research. And whether boarding is right for your family or not is a decision only you can make —it is, of course, about finding the right fit for your child and family circumstances.

Alicia Coad is founder of Rocketlearn (www.rocketlearn.co.uk) which combines the best of online learning platforms and teacher expertise to provide children with their own unique academic programme.

May/June 2022 • Families South West 17

BOARDING SCHOOLS

Boarding types There are three boarding options available in most schools. Full boarding This is where your child boards full-time for the term. But it doesn’t mean not seeing your child for weeks at a time. Full boarders have one “exeat” (a weekend when they can come home) per half term. With half terms usually only being ﬁve or six weeks long, this effectively means you usually go no longer than three weeks without having your child home. Moreover, these schools are no longer the closed institutions they once were; preCovid, parents were actively encouraged to visit their children. Weekly boarding Exactly as it sounds, this involves your child boarding Monday to Thursday evening. This enables you to have the usual family time at the weekend without managing the weekday logistics.

Flexi boarding Known in some schools as “bed and breakfasting,” this is where a child boards for two or three nights a week. This can be a great mix, giving your child access to all that boarding offers, yet still giving them time at home during the week. Affordability Traditional boarding schools can be seen as elitist with huge fees of up to £35,000 per year. These are the schools that the press tend to focus on when talking about boarding schools. There is no doubt that boarding schools are expensive, but there are often a range of bursaries and scholarships available. A third of pupils at ISC independent schools (including day schools) are on reduced fees and about six thousand pupils pay no fees at all. Most of these are on means-tested bursaries, with fee reductions given based on your income.

Scholarships may also be available for children who are academically gifted or excel in music, drama or sport. There are also several state boarding schools with much lower fees that are worth considering. If boarding school could be an option for you, look at the school website for details and contact the Registrar (the person who oversees admissions) as early as possible. Schools usually award places in the autumn term of the year before the child is due to start.

Preparation for life after education By Mr Simon Bird, Deputy Head, Cranleigh School

Cranleigh School believes that few things in life shape us quite as profoundly as our experiences at school. The teenage years can be uniquely exhilarating, fabulously rewarding, and occasionally deeply challenging. A significant proportion of who we become as adults can be traced to the pathway we tread through adolescence. Who we are, and, crucially, how we are, are often seeded in school life. Cranleigh is an unashamedly high-achieving school, but one cemented on the idea that school life really matters and committed to making the experience as rich, supportive and enjoyable as we can for every individual. Ask any parent what they want for their child at school and ‘academic success’ is almost always the first response, but it is never close to designed to provide our youngsters with the being the whole answer. Excellent opportunities to develop those life-long grades are a ‘must’. However, as qualities. Different individuals will be parents we understand that life is “Treat other fired up by different activities—many mostly lived on the other side will be driven by passionate of that doorway, so preparation people well. intellectual curiosity; others will find for what lies beyond is vital. outlets for their talents in music, This preparation resides in Everything drama, sport, in creative arts, or the developing a student’s else is detail” great outdoors. Most pupils will find approach to life, their character, themselves exploring and their resourcefulness, their experimenting across the full range of judgement, their humour, their opportunities on offer. They should expect compassion. That ambition lies at the to find themselves stretched, challenged and heart of our ethos. inspired. So much of what is on offer at Cranleigh is

18 Families South West • May/June 2022

The social interactions in a busy boarding environment like ours are unique, even as a day pupil. Learning to live as part of a close-knit community leads to an openness and acceptance of others that becomes secondnature to our pupils. Diversity is celebrated, inclusivity and respect for others are fundamental values. A hallmark of a Cranleigh education is the quality of relationships pupils establish with each other, friendships that endure long beyond the years a pupil spends with us. www.cranleigh.org

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EDUCATION

Lessons to learn before you’re 10 By Gail Hugman We live in a world where it’s easy to become overwhelmed. So teaching young children to make good use of their working memory, exercise self-control and get organised will really help them develop the skills they need to succeed in life. These key skills underpin everything we do in life and it takes just a few minutes a day to boost them so your child learns more e ectively and confidently. What’s more, growing these skills can be fun! Developed by experts who understand how children’s brains develop and form, try these starter activities to set your child o on the right path. Working memory Play Kim’s Game. To set up, gather ten objects together on a tray. Give your child one to two timed minutes to look at the objects, then cover them up. Depending on age and ability, ask them to tell, draw or write which ones they remember. As they progress, add more objects or give them less time to remember them. There are ways help brains recall objects; the trick is to make links and spot patterns. Give them these tips: To start with, count how many objects you’ll have to remember. Look to see if any can be linked together, by colour or by material, such as all plastic or all wood, by shape or by use; eg knife and fork go together, tools together, toys together. Older children ages 7+ might be able to order the objects in a sequence or a story. The more children play the game, the better they will get at recalling the objects. Why not see for yourself and play along too! Keep a tally so they can track their improvement and praise them for being clever. Explain that this is more than just a fun challenge, it’s all about teaching their brain to have a really good memory. You can say: ‘When your teacher shows you something in

COLLEGE GUARDIANS YOUR CHILD THE MOST IMPORTANT PERSON IN THE WORLD

Ever Thought of Hosting an International Student? We are currently seeking host families to look after children attending boarding school in the UK whose parents are based overseas. Our hosts look after the children during some half term holidays and occasional weekends. Dates of stays will depend very much on the school that the child attends. In exchange for your hospitality you will receive a generous compensation package as well as the invaluable experience that hosting an international student can bring to you and your family.

school, your brain will remember it better if you sort the information first. You’ll be able to remember names, countries, lists, linked facts and even do magic tricks by remembering a bunch of playing cards in order - how cool is that?’ Self-control Ask your child to tell you really quietly what colour socks they are wearing. Then ask them to tell you again as LOUDLY as possible (it may not be such fun for you, but they will love it!) Each time they whisper or shout, give feedback to their brain by telling them ‘that’s great whispering, can it be quieter?’ or ‘excellent LOUD voice, is that the loudest you’ve got?’ Do this exercise a few times and congratulate your child on their self-control. Tell them that taking charge from the inside is a very grown up thing to do. Decide one thing you’d like your child to get under control. For example, it may be to resist the impulse to call out in class. Or leave their desk when they should be sitting quietly. Make it a positive. Explain to your child that you’d like them to focus on this one thing every day for a week. Remind them each day, ask how they got on and praise their progress. In this way, you’ll support their e ort to control their impulses. Gail Hugman is the bestselling author of 100 Things to Learn Before You’re 10. A children’s life coach, she owns and runs Human at Core (www.humanatcore.com), which helps parents motivate and engage their children in developing a bright future and provides science-based online personal development courses for children and parents.

Giraffe Tutoring 20 Years teaching experience • Literacy Specialist Bespoke lesson plans for 4-11 year olds. In-person sessions. Build confidence and enjoyment. Develop phonics, reading, spelling and comprehension skills. DBS checked.

For more informa on please contact Caroline Lloyd, Guardianship Manager

caroline@collegeguardians.co.uk • +44 (0) 1684 581600

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Contact Stephanie: 07443 497906.

£40/Hour. Part hour available.

May/June 2022 • Families South West 19

Premium quality childcare

Book your personal tour to see our fantastic nursery and meet the team!

T: 0207 622 0484 E: csa@lgnurseries.com

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Dawmouse Dawmouse Montessori Montessori Nursery School School Nursery Passionate abo ut teaching and learning

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20 Families South West • May/June 2022

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HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

Adventures at home By Zoe Lake I’m a big fan of planning fun-filled family adventures at home for weekends and holidays. Here are some of our favourites, which can be easily adjusted if the weather does not behave. All the activities can be tailored to children and adults of all ages, adding a little magic to precious family time.

Garden music festival Dig out your tent, drag out your blankets and cushions, power up the radio and set up camp. Spend the day listening to music in the comfort of your own garden. Homemade ribbon wristbands and VIP lanyards allow unlimited access to the snack cupboard, fruity mocktails and ultimately, the lavatory - without needing to queue!

Twenty four hours without electricity Challenging the family to go without electricity is great fun. Not only does it encourage you to get creative with your time, it also opens up the broader topic of eco-living and which small changes can be made at home. Activities for the day might include painting, poetry, games, bird watching, cooking over an open flame and sleeping outside.

Stargazing Our favourite way to stargaze is in an old inflatable pool, patched with duct tape and filled with duvets! It keeps the chill out whilst we snuggle down and watch for the first star to appear amidst the myths and legends. Look out for the Big Bear, the Pegasus and Draco the dragon, which snakes across our sky.

Garden fete

Mini Olympics

Wildlife hunting

Village fetes are often a washout but you can schedule yours when there’s glorious sunshine! String up your bunting, bake some scones, set up a ra le and a lucky dip (from old goody bag items), provide an (unplugged) microphone for announcements, hold a pet show, even set up a Pimms’ tent (no judgement here).

Our annual garden Olympics is one of our favourite days of the year. Open with a (tissue paper) Olympic flame and homemade hanging flags, followed by competitive rounds of egg and spoon, sack races, hula hooping, bean bag throwing and swing ball. Keep score on a chalkboard and finish with salt dough medals at an elaborate award ceremony.

Find out who you share your garden with, using a nature guide to help with identification. Or encourage a few new residents with a log pile house for insects, hanging feeders for birds, a compost heap for worms, upturned pots for frogs and a colourful flowerbed for bees and butterflies. Keep an illustrated journal of what you all see.

Family heritage

Reading nook

Spend a bit of time asking relatives about their own adventures, jotting them down as you go. If the weather is a bit rubbish, this is the perfect excuse to scour old family albums full of photos of when they were young. And if the weather is kind, ask them to take you around their old haunts, perhaps to where they grew up.

A reading nook is a wonderful place to spend a lazy afternoon. Set up a den or a teepee and make it cosy inside. Fill a basket with books and make the most of little ones curled up in your lap for story time. Or even have a go at writing your own story together.

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Zoe Lake’s book Adventures at Home (Pimpernel Press) is available at all good book shops and at www.zoe-lake.co.uk

May/June 2022 • Families South West 21

Queensberry Nursery Where BIG Hearts Shape Little Minds

An independent, privately-owned nursery in the heart of Clapham Old Town for 2 1/2 to 5 year olds. A fun and nurturing pre-school offering traditional EYFS and Montessori teaching, excellent outdoor learning and with a superb team of staff.

Children from 7 months to 5 years 24 Queensberry Place SW7 2DR 0207 581 0200 queensberrynurs@gmail.com

www.queensberrynursery.com

St Mary Magdalen Montessori St Mary’s Summerstown Montessori SW14 : 020 8878 0756 • SW17 : 020 8947 7359

* Forest School * STEM * RULER Programme * ‘Stay and Play’ * Large Garden * Good links with follow on schools * * Excellent teacher to pupil ratios * The Willow Nursery 55 Grafton Square, London SW4 ODE Tel: 020 7498 0319 www.thewillownursery.co.uk

The Willow on the Farm Nursery Nill Farm, Hook Norton, Oxon OX15 5DQ Tel: 01608 730143 www.willowonthefarm.co.uk

Calling all young Scientists! Providing Education and Care in a Warm, Welcoming Environment including Cookery, Ballet, Dance, Football and Singing as part of our curriculum. Private fees or Free Government Funding. Good OFSTED with excellent love and care.

Help us discover how babies & kids learn! We’re recruiting infants from birth to school age to take part in fun studies at Birkbeck’s Babylab & ToddlerLab in central London. Our prime locations are easy to reach and we refund travel expenses. We also have online studies you can do from the comfort of home www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk/online-studies

020 3926 1207 babylab@bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk

Wimbledon bl d P Park

MONTESSORI SCHOOL Well established, independently run Montessori nursery school offering high quality education in a friendly and caring environment. i t • Small classes with qualified fied d stafff ensure excellent ll t levels l l of pupil contact. mber 2021. • Newly renovated in Septtem • Extra activities include sspo ort, yoga, music and Forest School. • Lovely outdoor garden. 206 Heythorp Street, Southf 020 8944 8584 www.wpm ms Please email Clare Collins fo

22 Families South West • May/June 2022

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Could you be a Wandsworth foster parent?

Mehtab’s story, the rewarding lifetime journey as a foster parent... “My family and I have been fostering for our local authority, Wandsworth Children Services, for almost 30 years. Our placements have included a vast range of ages, right from newborns to children that were 17 years old. These include several demographics and backgrounds. More recently, our primary age range has been adolescent teenagers. These children can be in care for a number of reasons, including but not limited to: • Family breakdown • Issues at home • Illness • Cultural adaptation It is not uncommon for young people to come into care with low educational accomplishments, low self esteem and low conﬁdence. However, with stability, professional involvement from the LA, our support, trust, encouragement and input they tend to turn it around and achieve great results, often showing

Mehtab, foster parent for Wandsworth Children Services, London

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signs of excelling in many areas. Our primary concern upon receiving a new placement is to establish a foundation of trust, which is twoway, and show that the children themselves are involved in decisions about them. We do not only care for them and provide safe, nourishing environments, but we show them the respect they deserve and value their views. It is a top priority to ensure that they feel very much part of the family. We are their advocates and will not hesitate to challenge any preconceived notions about them. How do you set rules at home? We do not impose too many household rules and any rules that take place are made with their input which empowers them and in turn strengthens the desire to follow them. In other words, they take responsibility of themselves. But of course, as is the nature of children, there will be moments where they test the boundaries! As a carer you must be empathetic, patient, resilient and appreciate the trauma that they may have. It is imperative to show them the care and love that could have been omitted in their lives previously. Believe in them and let them know you are there for them and will support them to sort out whatever problem may arise. With your actions, let them know you are a haven and can seek expert support and aid any struggle they may be facing. You are there with them to face challenges together. As a carer we need to draw on our own life experiences and trainings to support the young person. My biological children have been really helpful My two daughters and son are all adults now and have more recent experiences of school, college and university but it is not limited to this. One thing I ﬁnd myself sometimes falling slightly short on, is being ‘street smart’ as my son likes to put it. This does come in handy as often the young children in our care will turn towards their foster siblings for discussions that they would struggle to have with someone many years their senior! My children have proven to be good role models and we have noted that the child in question will often seek their advice and suggestions, as well as enjoy socialising with them. They build strong friendships with one another which extends past the length of the placement.

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There are so many highs There have been many fostering moments which are hard to describe but being told, “Thank you, I will never forget this” makes it all worthwhile. No matter how many times you may have heard it in the past, or whether you even expect it, the intrinsic reward is unmatched. In the occasions where these have not been verbally expressed by the child, the feedback received from schools or relatives of the child reinforce this. Never forget that every moment you spend with them, can have a gargantuan, lasting impact. Our job is simple. Provide a caring, loving and stable environment and to equip these young people with the tools necessary to achieve their potential going forward. With the support of the SSW and LA, and of course our own efforts, the positive impact we can have on a young person’s life is simply priceless.” Wandsworth needs more people like Mehtab.

Foster Care Fortnight takes place between 9-22 May 2022. Please visit the website https://fostering.wandsworth.gov.uk for updates on upcoming events and further information on becoming a foster carer with Wandsworth Council. You can also speak to a member of the Wandsworth fostering team by calling 020 8871 6666 or sending an email to fostering@wandsworth.gov.uk

Our kids. Our community. Become a foster parent.

May/June 2022 • Families South West 23

OPEN ALL

YE A DECEM PART FROM AR BER 2 5TH & 26TH

Do you have a spare room? Host an international student and make extra money!

BE AMAZED BY WILDLIFE Meet our amazing animals at this family friendly zoo in the heart of Batterrsea Park. After listening to our many keepe er talks and watching the feeding session ns, why not have fun on our adventure play areas. life sized helicopter, and d tractor along with a sandpit, swings, woo oden fort, climbing ropes and much more. Battersea Park Children’s Zoo Battersea Park, London SW11 4NJ

Britannia Student Services offers you: • Great rates of pay • Bookings to suit your schedule • Support from our dedicated team

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The Zebedee Nursery School has been running in London for nearly 40 years. We are based on Parsons Green. We are a traditional nursery school open for 3 and 4 year olds from 8.55am-12.10pm Monday to Friday and in the last academic year children can do afternoon session until 3.15pm. The 2 year olds come from 1.30pm-3.30pm. Introducing them to the routine and Nursery school in a small caring little group. In both sessions we have a mix of adult led learning and child initiated play. We are located on Parsons Green in a bright spacious hall. Zebedee has wonderful parent participation and a varied and stimulating curriculum. We also run a wonderful friendly toddler group on a Thursday 3.45pm -5pm We have spaces for April and September. Come and meet us, we can answer any questions you may have about the Nursery school. We would be very pleased to see you. Please contact us at: Zebedee.nurseryschool@gmail.com

24 Families South West • May/June 2022

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26 Families South West • May/June 2022

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Choosing the right swimming lessons for your child . By Andrew Campbell

Whilst swimming should be fun for children, your little ones are learning vital lifesaving skills so it’s important to make sure they are getting the right provision. Here are some key things to look for when choosing a swim school: Progression: Children need to have the opportunity to progress with their swimming as they improve. A good school will provide the facility for your child to swim right through from infant to competitive standard. Check whether the school is using the Swim England Learn to Swim Programme, a national syllabus which is designed to help teachers deliver swimming lessons for all ages to a high and consistent standard. Check teachers are qualiﬁed: In England there are two major bodies which award swimming teaching qualiﬁcations, the ASA and the STA Group size: It’s generally accepted that smaller is better. Swim England recommends no more than 12 learners to one teacher during a lesson. Often good swimming lessons are run with two teachers, one in the pool and one out of the pool. Organised and professional: A good teacher keeps regular records of his/her classes and has a plan for what needs to be achieved over a session, as well as during a term or season. They know how to set goals for individual classes based on different abilities and ages, and they know what exercises and drills they need to implement to achieve their goals.

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Understanding: Every child is different and the pace of learning swimming is highly dependent on a child’s age, personality and how much water exposure they have had before starting formal lessons. A good teacher will understand this.

London Baby Swim London Baby Swim Wandsworth is a newly refurbished, purpose-built Baby Swimming Centre that has recently reopened its doors.Their expert instructors provide “a gentle introduction to Baby Swim classes in a playful, fun and safe environment with a progression that will develop your child’s natural swimming skills.” The little ones can start splashing about from as little as 6 weeks. Swimming is a fun way to play with your baby and teach them how to stay safe in water. Promoting swimming from a young age encourages a healthy lifestyle, shows the importance of physical activity and also gives young children a good understanding of water and the dangers it may pose. By encouraging babies to be comfortable in the water from an early age, the child will build on their pre-existing affinity for water, rather than trying to reintroduce them later when they may have developed a phobia.

You may wish to consider warmer, baby pools for their lessons, as babies lose heat faster than adults. In a normal temperature pool, babies should only stay for fifteen or twenty minutes at a time and then build up to longer periods. London Baby Swim offer swimming lessons in their 33oC pools as this warmer temperature allows babies to stay comfortable for longer and get more benefit from the lessons. The Wandsworth Centre pool is not only heated to 33oC but also uses state of the art Commercial UV disinfection systems to ensure chlorine levels stay low when compared to the levels in standard swimming pools. Most babies introduced early find the swimming pool a fun and interesting environment to explore. Contact London Baby Swim today on www.londonbabyswim.co.uk or call on 020 8400 9091 to find out more.

Motivational and creative: Teaching swimming has to be more than just verbally giving out instructions to learners and managing a crowd. It’s about motivating children and caring about the feedback that children provide during lessons. For example, if an exercise is not working (it is too hard or too easy), a good teacher should be able to use his/her imagination and creativity to implement changes. Every activity in the lesson should be fun, purposeful and should be used to help the children work towards achieving a goal. Fun and games: A good swimming lesson will take a games-based approach. If it is not enjoyable your child is less likely to learn. Water skills and awareness: Teachers should ensure that your child is developing water skills such as buoyancy, and that they are feeling conﬁdent moving in the water. They should also stress the need to understand swimming as a ﬁtness activity. Swimming for swimming’s sake does not make for good swimming lessons.

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May/June 2022 • Families South West 27

Little Dippers: an inspiring story! Little Dippers is proud to be celebrating their 30th anniversary this year and to have been one of the first baby swim schools in the country teaching the many benefits of baby swimming. Their baby swim water safety programme was devised by baby swim pioneer and Little Dippers founder, Lauren Heston. Lauren began her journey when involved in filming an advert for British Gas, which featured a baby swimming underwater, a very controversial image at the time. She observed how naturally the baby adapted to the water and decided to investigate this phenomenon. This lead her to a study on the Russian premature baby techniques in aquatic environments and watching how newborn babies responded so naturally to the water having a natural reflux which allows them to go under the water easily. It was this that inspired Lauren to create the Little Dippers’ programme with the aim of teaching babies and toddlers key water safety techniques in a way which is both fun and nurturing. As one of the first activities you can do with your baby it is a great way to bond with your baby having special one to one time in the water, while the exercises help to strengthen

your baby’s heart and lung capacity and develop their cognitive skills. They are excited to be opening classes in their lovely new private warm water aqua sensory pool in Putney. The water is heated to a balmy 34C and the UV ﬁltration system allows for lower chlorine levels which is kinder to delicate skin and eyes. While the aqua sensory lighting, along with small classes with

just four babies in a class, create a calm and relaxing environment. They are offering an Introductory offer of 10% off your ﬁrst course. For more information and to book a course check out our website: www.littledippers.co.uk. Or you can book a FREE TRIAL by emailing info@littledippers.co.uk or call 01273 229390

Introductory offer

teaching your baby to love the water

Now booking ahead

FREE TRIAL SESSIONS New baby and toddler swim classes at the Aqua-Hub a lovely new warm water aqua sensory private pool.

www.littledippers.co.uk

28 Families South West • May/June 2022

01273 229390

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SWIMMING

3 reasons to book holiday swimming crash courses Between each term falls everyone’s favourite time of year: HOLIDAYS! Let’s not kid ourselves, holidays are the best! Children love them, adults love them, everyone loves them! What’s not to love? The potential for relaxation, hopefully some fun in the sun and let’s not forget, swimming. This is why holiday swimming courses are so popular. While many students re-enrol for swimming lessons each term, some are unable to commit to a full term of swimming and opt for booking holiday courses only. Then there are also those who book term-time AND holidays. These are the students that can see the most progression. Here’s why…

1. Continuous learning Children thrive in their lessons when they attend on a regular basis. When a child attends lessons irregularly during a term, you will ﬁnd that their progression can suffer as a result. The adage “practice makes perfect” holds true. Breaks between each term can potentially have similar results, especially over the long summer break.

2. A boost to the progression Sometimes a student may struggle with particular exercises. This can result in 1:2 lessons gradually becoming mismatched over time. Signing up for a week’s crash course help children master some of the skills they have been struggling with. It does wonders for their development, conﬁdence and health! SwimWay will sometimes suggest a child signs up for a 1:1 holiday course if there is any sign of a mismatch with their term-time buddy. However, pairing them with a different partner over the holidays can help too.

3. The children love it! Never underestimate the fact that one of the main things to focus on in swimming lessons is for the children to ENJOY THEMSELVES. This creates a fun and encouraging atmosphere and helps push them to become better. If you’re not going away for your holidays, what better way to give the children a fun activity than signing them up for a SwimWay Holiday Swimming Crash Course? SwimWay Holiday Courses have proved extremely popular over the years as the children improve by leaps and bounds due to

the intense attention and focus on their needs throughout the week. Combining fun with the obvious health beneﬁts, these intensive crash courses are an excellent boost to children’s development and a wonderful start to the holiday season! Holiday courses running in Balham, East Sheen, Kensington, Kew Gardens, Putney and Wimbledon 0208 871 3972 www.swimway.co.uk

South West Swimming School Did you know swimming can provide psychological benefit, whether it's to help learn to focus through challenging sets or allow our minds to relax during slow easy swims? Learning to swim also provides a confidence boost and feeling of achievement. For children learning to swim, it offers them a chance to become involved in a sport whether as an individual or as part of a team. They will learn the importance of practice, discipline, and teamwork, which they can take with them throughout life and apply even in other situations. South West Swimming School has been established over 20 years ago and through all these years have developed their own tailored swimming lessons with small ratio classes. They told Families: “We believe that children at the beginning of their swimming journey need more attention from their instructor so they can progress and develop their skills faster. Small ratio class helps children to build close contact with their peers and teacher. We are offering instructions from water as that is much safer and children build their confidence a lot sooner.”

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They teach using The Swim England Learn to Swim Programme the leading national teaching syllabus for delivering safe, inclusive and effective swimming lessons for all ages.

Classes for adults too! South West Swimming School strongly recommends swimming lessons for adults at any age, as swimming is an activity that exercises the entire body. Water offers greater-than-air resistance, which provides great strength training. Swimming can be pursued throughout life as it is a low-impact sport and doesn't hurt your joints even if you swim frequently. Because water supports our body weight, even people with challenged mobility and special needs can learn to swim. The breath control swimming teaches you and the stronger lungs swimming gives you is also a great remedy for asthma. Courses in Battersea, Balham and Tooting. www.swswimschool.co.uk

May/June 2022 • Families South West 29

Helping children believe they can do anything Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds

BATTERSEA 07956 288928 battersea@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/battersea

PUTNEY 020 8099 9861 putney@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/putney

FULHAM 07498 213142 fulham@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/fulham

WIMBLEDON 020 8946 3400 wimbledon@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/wimbledon

Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.

30 Families South West • May/June 2022

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CLUBS & CLASSES

Pre-schoolers ﬂock back to group activities Amanda’s Action Club

After more than a year of social distancing and spending time on screens, the number of UK pre-schoolers joining organised group activities has risen by 10%, according to a new study from Childwise, a leading specialist in research with children. 26% of parents surveyed said their pre-schooler had participated in group activities this year, up from 16% in 2019.

Looking for award-winning, action-packed play? An active class which teaches your child about movement and the world around them? Running for thirty years across London, Amanda’s Action Club is waiting for you. It’s an award-winning experience for families with music, movement, drama, and discovery. Classes suitable for children from 6 months to 3 years. Older siblings are welcome during school holidays.

Swimming is the most popular activity, with 37% of parents taking their pre-schoolers to the pool on a regular basis. This is followed by dance classes (22% in general and 31% among three and four-year-old girls) and group music lessons (14%).

Join Action Amanda in high-class venues in Kensington, Notting Hill, Chelsea, and Wandsworth.

On average, UK kids are now participating in 1.4 activities, up from 1.2 activities pre-Covid. www.childwise.co.uk

amanda@amandasactionclub.co.uk

Little Dippers Enjoy the many beneﬁts of baby swimming and teach your baby a skill for life with the renowned little dippers' water safety programme. They teach babies and toddler key water safety techniques in a fun and nurturing environment. Classes suitable for babies from 3 months through to toddlers. Classes run from Mon - Sat in their lovely warm water aqua sensory pool at the AquaHub Northﬁelds Prospect, SW18 1PE. £147 for a 6 week course. https://littledippers.co.uk

Baby Sensory Baby Sensory is the first and original baby programme that is specifically designed to stimulate and educate babies during their first year of life.

Baby Sensory classes are currently being held on Wednesdays at St John’s Church, Fulham and Thursdays at Holy Trinity Parish Centre, 41 Brook Green.

Sessions include a broad variety of sensory activities (light shows, textures, gentle movement activities etc.) It is also an ideal place to meet new parents, ask questions, share experiences and memories together.

For more info please visit www.babysensory.com/fulham or contact them directly on 07453 760157 or fulham@babysensory.co.uk. www.babysensory.com

Paint Pots Montessori Summer Classes For babies and toddlers (6 months–3 years) at St Mary The Boltons, Chelsea, SW10 9TB

Would you like to earn extra money? Capital Focus Groups are looking for people who enjoy giving their opinions and are willing to share their views on the products and services they use for many of the country’s largest companies and well-known products. Online and face to face sessions. It’s free, it’s fun and you will be ﬁnancially rewarded as a thank you for taking part! Register now to earn extra money, by calling Liz on 07761 128059 or e.dahlgren@btinternet.com

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Accompanied art, craft, music, messy play, early Montessori, baby moves and STEM classes for you and your child. Explore, discover, create, have fun & make friends www.paint-pots.co.uk creativeclasses@paint-pots.co.uk 0207 223 0123

May/June 2022 • Families South West 31

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CLUBS & CLASSES

Perform drama, dance and singing classes Conﬁdence building weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. Classes are designed to boost conﬁdence, communication, concentration and coordination. With over 300 classes running each week, there’s sure to be a class near you.

Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class.

Venues in most SW postcodes, with new venues in Cheam, Fulham and Colliers Wood! 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk Book a free no-obligation class by visiting www.perform.org.uk/try

Free app to teach children to save the planet Earth Cubs is a new app for children ages 3 to 7 that educates kids about the planet and sustainability. The free app is ﬁlled with games, puzzles, quizzes and comics—all teacher-written and approved, as well as resources for projects and outdoor activities to inspire kids to get out into nature. Children create their Earth Cub avatar in their likeness and journey across the world, visiting different

environments around the globe, such as the Amazon rainforest and the Arctic. Each environment brings an environmental issue to life in a vibrant and positive way, empowering kids to make a real difference as they interact with the Earth Cubs world and characters. They even earn badges that plant real trees in the real world. www.earthcubs.com

Our Cello Community

Kidslingo

Cello tuition in South West London with Helen Neilson. Individual lessons in SW4 with supporting group programme in SW18.

Spanish and French skills for life. Kidslingo is a passionate believer in exposing children to languages from a young age, with research linking many beneﬁts to the early uptake of a foreign language, not least a greater linguistic ability later in life.

Long established teaching practice with a reputation for results of excellence. Holistic, child centred approach, utilising the philosophy of the Suzuki Method.

Their philosophy focuses on teaching Spanish and French to babies, toddlers and young children through engaging songs, games, actions, story telling and drama.

Currently taking applications for new students who are complete beginners to playing the cello, age 4-7 years old.

The unique Kidslingo programme and teaching methodology covers the age range 0–11 years. They have been privileged to witness thousands of little ones enthusiastically embrace Spanish and French over the years and develop amazing linguistic skills for their age.

Apply to come in to observe summer term Saturday morning group lessons in SW18 via their website. Come to experience what they do directly with no obligation. Bring your child along to see what they do.

Ideal for nurseries looking for engaging lessons and for schools looking for high quality and engaging MFL classes. Get in touch to discuss your requirements: zoeolivier@kidslingo.co.uk or 07961 107707

“My approach is to build cellists with strong foundations with a view to healthy long term freedom with the instrument. My belief is that children learn optimally when they can learn from their environment and from their peers. Our community based approach offers a network of support in the learning process for parents and children. All families become part of the wider Suzuki community and can access international events and parent support.” Contact Helen on info@ourcellocommunity.com https://ourcellocommunity.com

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May/June 2022 • Families South West 33

CHILDCARE

Foster Care Fortnight® is back! Foster Care Fortnight® runs from 9 to 22 May this year and is the UK's biggest foster carer awareness raising and recruitment campaign. Run by The Fostering Network, the campaign aims to raise the proﬁle of fostering and to show how foster care can transform lives—both the lives of the young people who are fostered and those of foster carers and their families and friends. Thousands of foster families are needed each year to care for a range of children, with greatest need being for foster carers for older children, sibling groups and disabled children. Fostering is an opportunity to make a positive difference to a vulnerable child or young person, expand your skills through training and to develop lifetime relationships with generous ﬁnancial incentives. www.thefosteringnetwork.org.uk www.wandsworth.gov.uk/fostering fosteringrecruitment@wandsworth.gov.uk 020 8871 6666

Walk to school week Thousands of children across the UK will celebrate the health and wellbeing beneﬁts of walking during National Walk to School Week from 16 to 20 May. Families will be encouraged to walk, cycle, scoot or ‘Park and Stride’ for the whole week to see the big differences that can come from small steps—from healthier and happier children to fewer cars outside the school gates. Free Family Walk to School Kits and interactive wall charts and stickers are available to download. Schools can obtain Walk to School classroom packs to help teach children about the beneﬁts of being active, with daily reward stickers and special rewards badges at the end of the week for those who travelled actively every day. www.livingstreets.org.uk/walk-to-school

34 Families South West • May/June 2022

Small nurseries being bought Smaller nursery chains and single nurseries in England are increasingly being bought up by large profit-focussed companies, without necessarily creating more places or investing more in staff, according to a major new study by University College London (UCL). According to the research these companies are ‘heavily indebted’ and their ‘risky’ financial operating models could threaten the provision of nursery places. The borrowing of money by large companies to buy additional nurseries has not resulted in a substantial increase in childcare places. It also found that private for-profit nurseries are charging high fees relative to other countries, whilst staff qualifications are amongst the lowest. The authors recommended the government review the way the nursery sector receives public funding and for parents and staff to be represented on nursery management boards. www.ucl.ac.uk/news

The million word gap Young children whose parents read them ﬁve books a day start school having heard about 1.4 million more words than kids who were never read to, a new study found. This ‘million word gap’ could help explain the differences often seen in vocabulary and reading development among young children, according to the researchers at the Ohio State University. Even children who are read only one book a day will hear about 290,000 more words by age 5 than those who don't regularly read books with a parent or caregiver. ‘Kids who hear more vocabulary words are going to be better prepared to see those words in print when they enter school and are likely to pick up reading skills more quickly and easily’ said Jessica Logan, lead author of the study. The study appears online in the Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics. www.sciencedaily.com

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EARLY YEARS

The importance of routines for young children By Claire Burgess Routine is important for all of us. It provides safe, comfortable boundaries and keeps our lives on track. But it also means di erent things to di erent people and needs to fit each individual family, adjusting as children grow. Some families benefit from more structure, while others work well with more flexible routines. There is no right or wrong in a routine, other than when it doesn’t work for your children or for you! Why do babies and children need routine? As humans, every day of our lives is made up of various mini routines. These are the little routines which we have perfected over time and repeat daily, all of which help us to manage our day, many times without even really thinking about it. Routine is also another word for security. By having a routine it helps our children (and us) to feel secure and we are at our best when we feel safe and secure. This is when we are able to concentrate, co-operate, negotiate, listen and ultimately learn. Being able to tell the time gives adults the ability to develop routines but babies and young children don’t have this luxury. So they are relying on us to help them understand how their day is going to be structured. It’s worth being aware that if this timing changes day to day, your child will be constantly unsure of what is happening next. In turn, this may lead to them displaying challenging behaviours, their eating habits fluctuating and their sleep being disturbed.

How do I keep my child on track? It is all about watching for the signals. These can be subtle and can sometimes be easily missed; observation of your child is key. Look for those little indicators such as wandering o around the house and not being able to focus on things, becoming clingy when they were happily playing, staring into space, getting cross, frustrated or fidgeting, upset or boisterous. These behaviours can all be indicators that your child is feeling out of kilter and needs you to help them find the way back into their routine. Once you have recognised this, you can put a plan into action. Claire Burgess is a director and family consultant at Bespoke Family (www.bespokefamily.co.uk), which oﬀers tailored support from newborns to teens.

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Top tips Make the routine fit your family. Every family is unique and has their own way of structuring their day; what works for your friend might not work for you. Don’t make it too rigid. But do have two key times of the day: the time your children get up in the morning and the time they go to bed. If you aim for and stick to these two points of the day, it will help to regulate your child’s sleep hormones at night and ‘get up and go’ hormones in the morning. Between getting up time and bed time you should schedule regular mealtimes (and snacks dependent on the activity of the day) and possibly naps. These focal points provide a constant structure which will give both you and your children the security and safety to approach each day with confidence. Go for consistency. For something to become a habit it needs to be consistent. When implementing a new routine or an adjustment, it can take at least two weeks to stick, so persevere!

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May/June 2022 • Families South West 35

Discover it this half-term at London Wetland Centre Book now Search WWT London

36 Families South West • May/June 2022

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SUMMER CAMPS

The lowdown on school holiday camps and workshops By Andrew Campbell Summer holiday camps, schools and workshops are not only an ideal way to fill in childcare gaps during the long summer break but o er the opportunity for your child to discover a new hobby or take their existing passion to a new level. Multi-activity day camps O ering a varied daily programme of sports and creative activities, with each session lasting between 1 and 1.5 hours, multi-activity camps are ideal for children who have a range of interests or have not yet found their ‘thing.’ Some camps o er an astounding range of sports, arts and crafts, outdoor exploration, games and challenges. Generally, camps can be booked for single days, half days and full weeks, including extended hours and multi-week discounts. Sport/single activity camps or workshops These intensely focused summer schools o er specialisation. Think a specific sport such as football, gymnastics and cricket, one creative activity such as painting, photography and cooking, a single performing art like drama, musical theatre or dance or an area of STEM such as computer coding, robotics and game design. Generally operating for two to five hours per day and running for just one day or as a progressive course from a few days to two weeks, these camps or workshops often cater for all ages of children and culminate in staging a performance, playing a competitive game or demonstrating a completed project.

For children who have an established interest, single activity camps or workshops o er a valuable opportunity to receive elite coaching and tuition, often from highly qualified or experienced instructors which can result in a significant boost to their existing skill level, confidence and enthusiasm in their chosen endeavour. For a child curious about an activity, single activity camps or workshops are a great opportunity for an immersive experience which will test their interest and aptitude and for gaining an appreciation of what a regular commitment to weekly term time classes, often run by the same organisation, could o er. For children who may struggle to find school friends who share their ‘passion,’ activity camps or workshops are a great way to meet ‘like-minded’ peers in their local area. And for you? A patchwork of activity camps and/or workshops can be expensive but there is a distinct advantage in that they o er some mainstays of childcare across the summer that simultaneously allow your child to be doing something enjoyable, fulfilling, exciting or unique.

What to take to a camp/ workshop

Residential camps – the benefits

A refillable water bottle – there should be drinking water available but remind your child to stay hydrated during the day.

A residential summer camp may feel daunting for both parents and children but there are significant benefits in having time away from home.

For outside activities, make sure your child has sun cream already applied. Ask them to re-apply it every four hours. Ensure they have a sun hat. Choose well-worn, weather-appropriate practical clothing and comfortable footwear. Layers are good if the weather is unpredictable. Avoid flip-flops which can cause health and safety issues. Remember swimming costume and towel or apron/old shirt for creative activities. Packed lunch, plus additional snacks for break times/extended hours. Rucksack (to carry everything). Leave mobile phones at home – they are often prohibited by camp organisers anyway.

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Acquire new life skills. Whatever the type of camp, your child will learn new life skills based on their experiences. They may discover a sport or hobby they have not considered before. Gain more independence. From choosing what to wear, to ensuring they eat well and keep their area tidy, your child will gain a sense of independence and responsibility that can only come from being away from you. Experience a sense of belonging and make new friends. Having fun with peers can foster a sense of belonging. Kids bond with their teammates on tasks and feel included in the activities taking place, not to mention making new friends. Character development. With more responsibility and freedom comes newly gained confidence which could see your child becoming better organised, making better choices and achieving more in the future.

May/June 2022 • Families South West 37

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS CAMPS AND WORKSHOPS

Please make sure you say where you found them!

Let’s Act

May half term and summer holidays

Clapham, Earlsﬁeld www.letsactdramaclasses.co.uk 1-5 August and 22-26 August. Drama classes summer camp. Prepare a show in a week! Conﬁdence building and lots of fun.

The holidays are the perfect time to make a song and dance, play sports or learn new skills. Book now for a summer of fun (and childcare). MUSIC

SPORTS & MULTI-ACTIVITIES

Upbeat Holiday Camps

SW Swimming School

Parsons Green SW6 www.upbeatmusiccourses.co.uk 30 May - 1 June 25-29 July and 1-5 August Sing, dance, play guitars, drums, percussion and keyboards, record and write songs with professional musicians and qualiﬁed teachers. There’s outdoor play too, and an end of week performance. Ages 4-12.

Various SW London pools www.swswimschool.co.uk 25 July–26 August Will be running summer splash courses, check details online. Book quick to avoid disapointment.

The Strings Club Various venues including Tooting SW17 www.thestringsclub.org Every school holiday Multi award-winning holiday camps offering professionally led instrumental play, interactive workshops and a Grand Concert at the end. Free instrument hire included. Ages 4-11.

SwimWay Various SW London venues www.swimway.co.uk 30 May - 1 June 18 July - 2 September Combining fun with the obvious health beneﬁts, SwimWay’s 3-5 day crash courses are an excellent boost to children’s development. Ages 2+.

Youngstars Holiday Camps

Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes Venues across SW and SE London www.funkymonkey.info July-August dates Make music the fun way in a beginner workshop. Children learn how to write and play notes C-G and try some famous tunes using electronic keyboards. With games, quizzes and art activities all based around music, all equipment and take home workbook provided. Ages 4-8.

25 July - 26 August Peter Pan summer courses. Set sail to Neverland on an unforgettable adventure with Peter Pan and friends (and villains!) Packed with drama, dance, singing activities and costumes, Perform’s three and five full day courses inspire the imagination and give shy children the chance to shine as they work towards a final performance for family and friends. Ages 4-10. “Freyja got so much out of those three days; it’s given her a lot of confidence in her ability to join in, make new friends and perform songs and dances. We were so proud of her.” Emma Robinson (parent).

Various SW London venues www.young-stars.co.uk 30 May-1 June Summer holidays. An introduction to a wide range of sports, centred around enjoyment rather than winning or losing! Full and half days available. Ages 4-10.

THEATRE & THE ARTS Perform Barnes, Battersea, Chelsea, Clapham South, Earlsﬁeld, Fulham, Kensington, Streatham,Wimbledon www.perform.org.uk/peterpan

Little Voices Fulham SW6, various dates www.littlevoices.org.uk 25 July - 25 August Four-day singing and dancing workshops inspired by children’s most loved movies and musicals. This summer, choose from Encanto, SING 2, ‘Frozen’ the Musical, and Cinderella. Complete with props and costumes, the ﬁnal performance will be professionally ﬁlmed and sent out, ready to watch again and again with family and friends. Ages 5-11.

Paint Pots Montessori Summer Fun 11 – 29 July St Mary The Boltons, Chelsea, SW10 9TB Fun arts, crafts & music led by fully qualiﬁed nursery school and creative classes teachers. For 12-18 months, 18 months – 3 years & 3-6 year olds. Morning, afternoon & all-day sessions. www.paint-pots.co.uk creativeclasses@paint-pots.co.uk 0207 223 0123

Stagecoach Performing Arts Wimbledon SW19 www.stagecoach.co.uk/wimbledon 25-29 July and 1-5 August Put on a musical show in ﬁve days! From the moment students arrive at the workshop they will be caught up in the

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38 Families South West • May/June 2022

Multi award-winning Holiday Camps for children aged 4-11 Offering only the best in childcare and music

www.thestringsclub.org | 0121 369 1950

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SCHOOL HOLIDAYS CAMPS AND WORKSHOPS

All details are as provided when going to press, however in case of changes, please double-check before setting out.

excitement and creativity of rehearsals while having fun and making new friends. Book individual days or for the whole week. Ages 4-16. Putney SW15 www.stagecoach.co.uk/putney 25-29 July and 1-5 August Discover the joys of drama, dance and singing with friends old and new, working towards a performance at the end of the week to show parents, friends and family. No experience necessary - just bags of enthusiasm! Ages 4-6+. Battersea SW11 www.stagecoach.co.uk/battersea 25-29 July Five brilliant days of dance, drama and singing for children and teenagers. Enjoy a different musical theme each day, rehearsing with amazing theatre practitioners for an end of week performance. Ages 4-16.

LANGUAGES

astrogeology, meet the elements and more. Book by day or full week. Daily rate £95. 9.30-3.30. Ages 4-12.

DEVELOPING SKILLS

Et Patati Patata

Yellowbird Education

Hammersmith W6 www.etpatatipatata.com 25 July - 5 August A wide range of fun and creative activities, all in French, exploring sounds, ﬂavours, customs and cultures. With stories, songs, visits and workshops, children are encouraged to talk, write and progress in French with fun! Ages 4-15.

Fulham and Wandsworth www.yellowbirdeducation.com 30 May - 1 June 18 July - 1 September Fun and engaging holiday workshop weeks where children develop skills in creative writing, English exam prep, intensive handwriting, reasoning and arts and crafts. Ages 6-11 in small groups.

Club Petit Pierrot

Kensington W8 www.littlehouseofscience.com 30 May - 1 June 11 July - 26 August Fun science-based camps with a different theme each week. Activities include fascinating animal world, science geniuses who changed the world, amazing secrets of energy,

Chelsea and Fulham clubpetitpierrot.co.uk 18-29 July Summer holiday club and summer holiday workshops mini groups. Online or in person, one-to-one or private mini group: All ages.

Little House of Science

Spark4Kids www.spark4kids.com Computer coding and touch-typing courses where children creatively explore coding and touch-typing, helping them to naturally develop their computational skills. For kids that love computers, Spark4Kids might just be their ultimate holiday activity. From absolute beginners to experienced children, for online and in-person courses.

WWT London Wetland Centre Queen Elizabeth's Walk SW13 9WT www.wwt.org.uk 28 May to 5 June Create some magical memories at their SURVIVAL WEEK. Enjoy a fun and creative outdoor experience, meet a stunning array of thriving wildlife. Mud Kitchen Give your young adventurers the chance to ﬁnally create their imaginary, culinary concoctions. 10am-4pm. Free,

turn-up activity. Suitable for all ages. Pond Dipping When you enter the Pond Zone, the underwater life provides a whole new level of discovery. 11am & 2pm. Free, turnup activity. 3yrs+. Adventure Workshop Learn how to build a makeshift shelter, safely light a ﬁre, and tie the right knot in

Luxury family glamping in the Surrey countryside Are you looking for a family adventure this summer without travelling too far? Hammonds Glamping is a family glamp site, located in the beautiful National Trust grounds of Hatchlands Park in Surrey. Treat yourself to a touch of luxury with a deluxe furnished tent with beds and bedding, or bring your own kit and camp in their unfurnished bell tents. On site you can relax around your ﬁre pit, enjoy time with friends under the communal stretch tent with games and blankets, freshen familiesonline.co.uk

up with their well-equipped shower facilities and wake up to a delicious coffee from their refreshments trailer. Explore the beautiful National Trust grounds with cafes and play areas or venture out for some fun family days out close by. Open throughout July & August, tents start from £100 per night and sleep up to 6, minimum stay 2nights. Contact them about exclusive site hire. Check availability and book now at hammondsglamping.com FamiliesSWLondon

any survival situation. 11:30 & 2:30. 7+ yrs - All children need to be accompanied by an adult. Map Challenge You’ve learnt how to track footprints and build dens, now it’s time to become an expert navigator and hone your map reading skills. Free, self-led activity, collect your map at admissions desk. 5+.

This summer make memories to last a lifetime Travel Ayres takes the stress out of booking family holidays, day trips, UK or city breaks and day trip experiences. Dreaming of Disneyland? Want white sandy beaches and blue turquoise seas? Perhaps a more adventurous outdoor break suits your family best, or a visit to a favourite city or well-loved attraction such as London's West End theatres, or Madame Tussauds? The options are endless as Travel Ayres has a huge variety of holidays, breaks and experiences at affordable costs. Alongside destination holidays, UK and City Breaks, they also have an array of unique breaks too such as adventurous trips, painting and walking holidays, and much more. Contact them for Package Deals or for a bespoke quote to create your perfect holiday. travelwithtravelayres@gmail.com | @travelayresuk

May/June 2022 • Families South West 39

Exploring di erent cultures through food By Fola Williams Food! Such an important part of life, isn’t it? Are you a family of foodies who are interested in exploring culture through food? Here are some ideas to get you started on exploring the tastes and culture of Africa.

Fancy some Michelin star food delivered to you? My Local Kitchen offers an at-home dining experience, that even children can enjoy. The idea is that Michelin starred chef Garry Hollihead cooks just for you! Meals are freshly made to order and delivered the same day, ready to just heat and serve. Because they come straight from the kitchen to your table, meals are not frozen and do not use preservatives.

Enjoy 20% off your food bill by mentioning Families!

For a window into colourful food prep ideas, Instagram has some inspirational bloggers and creators showcasing a variety of authentic cultural dishes, as well as African lifestyle. These are some of my favourites: Yemisi @sisi_yemmie

Ronke Edoho @9jafoodie

Yemisi delights followers with incredible plating and flavour combinations, as well as general lifestyle content. You can download her menu planner to organise and simplify your life for less than £10. Even better, follow her to a local Lagosian market as she shops for ingredients on her YouTube channel.

Follow Ronke Edoho for recipes and meal inspiration. She also runs @loseitnigerian for a more healthconscious view of cooking Nigerian food.

Jollofcode @jollofcode

Ghanakitchen @ghanakitchen

For the green-fingered, follow jollofcode and see how to grow Nigerian vegetables and spices such as okra, ata rodo (scotch bonnet peppers) and garden egg, which you’ll be pleased to hear is not an actual egg but a vegetable that can be either eaten raw or used to make stew!

Zoe runs live cooking workshops on @ghanakitchen where you enjoy an immersive experience in cooking Ghanaian food. Her shop, though momentarily closed, sells amazing spice blends that provide a wholesome introduction to authentic West African flavours.

Subscribe You could also try food subscription boxes from a di erent culture. Cook with Pika (www.cookwithpika. co.uk) makes it super easy to cook Nigerian by including several ingredients in the right proportions as well as simple recipes and cooking instructions in their boxes. They also have delicious vegetarian alternatives to some of our traditional dishes.

Fola Williams is proprietor of Sheni and Teni (www.sheniandteni.com) which offers diverse books, toys and games for kids.

40 Families South West • May/June 2022

Families SW ordered a meal for two, which easily fed three people. Every single dish was truly scrumptious. The Cheese soufflé was our absolute favourite but we also loved every bite of the Persian Spiced Chicken, with Heritage Carrot and Banana Shallots—the banana and raisin pudding with toffee sauce was hmm delicious! The range is perfect for both family meals and at home entertaining. www.MyLocalKitchen.co.uk

Enjoy 20% off your food bill by mentioning Families!

Bombay Delight, a new restaurant in Wimbledon Families was excited to sample Bombay Delight, a new restaurant which aims to showcase all that Indian cuisine has to offer. They offer a variety of curries and other regional dishes that Londoners might never have heard of— a chance to be introduced to lesser-known Indian specialities. The menu celebrates traditional Indian cuisine with modern twists through a combination of long standing favourites like the Bombay Butter Chicken alongside a selection of lesser known regional dishes like Lamb Angara. Do try the Tiltala Jhinga, crispy fried king prawns and the Murgh Hariyali Tikka, grilled chicken breast marinated with fresh green spices & hung yoghurt! There is also a large selection of vegetarian dishes on the menu. Delish! 271-273, The Broadway in Wimbledon. Instagram: @bombays_delight familiesonline.co.uk

COMPETITIONS

*Father’s Day Competition* WIN a Brewer for the Day Gift Experience at Sambrook’s Brewery! We have a voucher for this exciting brewing experience (worth £150) to give to one lucky reader! Valid for two people, you’ll spend the day at Sambrook’s Brewery in Wandsworth, the oldest brew site in the UK, with master brewer, John Hatch. You’ll learn everything there is to know about the brewing process and then roll up your sleeves and join in. Plus you’ll also take home a ﬁve-litre mini keg - a perfect gift for any beer loving dad. For more information about this experience see bit.ly/BrewerForTheDay

To be in with a chance of winning, email editor@familiessurreywest.co.uk with your name and phone number and Sambrook’s Competition as the email title. Closing date is 31st May 2022, for full Ts&Cs see bit.lewercomprules

If you aren’t lucky enough to win, you can still buy this exciting gift from buyagift.co.uk or redletterdays.co.uk

Win a Great British Map of Wonders Let the adventures begin! Families has teamed up with ST&G to offer ten lucky readers their very own Great British Map of Wonders. There are so many amazing adventureﬁlled things to do here in Britain, that it’s hard to take them all in without a ginormous map! For children ages 6+, this map includes 1,000 of the most fun things to do and places to visit around Britain, with great games to play, boxes to tick, notes to ﬁll in and a huge colouring map. Find and explore amazing animals, awesome activities, brilliant beaches, thrilling quests, super-fun festivals, funny place names and legendary places. For more information, visit www.marvellousmaps.com.

To enter, visit https://familiesmag.co.uk/go Closing date: 20 June • T&Cs at https://bit.ly/MapofWonders

Care and share with Care Bears Bean Plush! Apply for a FREE Bean Plush 22cm Care Bear now* Perfect company for your child’s adventures, big or small.

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Apply at familiesmag.co.uk/go *while stocks last T&Cs apply

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May/June 2022 • Families South West 41

What’s On May/June 2022

Compiled by Robina Cowan

All details are as provided when going to press, however in case of changes, do double-check before setting out

If you only do one thing this month... Visit the Tower of London Tower of London EC3N 4AB www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london 1 June - 18 September

Superbloom at the Tower Over 20 million mixed seeds have been sown in the Tower’s moat, to create a spectacular, colourful field of flowers to mark the HM The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. Grab a mat and slide down the Superbloom slide and follow the visitor route through the display. Wander along weaving paths among the flowers enjoying a specially commissioned soundscape, with sculptural elements to make you feel at home amidst the bees and butterflies. Don’t forget to take your camera for a memorable and truly photogenic opportunity.

42 Families South West • May/June 2022

DIARY DATES Fulham Palace Bishop's Avenue SW6 6EA www.fulhampalace.org 8 May Green Meet Don’t miss this green and eco-friendly event inc a green market, talks, food, music, face painting, educational workshops and much more. 19 June Family Fun Day Have you ever met a time-traveling cat? Had dinner with a queen or made friends with a very hungry caterpillar? Now is your chance!

Explore the palace and meet fantastical characters at a drop-in family fun day. Listen to a story in historic rooms, get creative with crafts and help solve a mystery. 25 June Little Green Fingers Get down-to-earth in a workshops devoted to how fruit, veg and ﬂowers grow. Senior gardeners will demonstrate while children have a chance to sow, plant, care for and harvest within beautiful walled garden. Ages 3+.

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What’s On May/June 2022 Platinum Jubilee May Fair Wimbledon Rugby Club, SW20 0ET 11 May Independent brands, sustainable and eco gifts, heritage brands, antique tea cup candles, home ware, tea and cakes. In aid of MacMillan Cancer Support. 9.30-3.30

Pub in the Park 27-29 May, Wimbledon Park SW19 8AU www.pubintheparkuk.com A culinary festival featuring a huge line-up of renowned chefs led by Tom Kerridge. Enjoy incredible

food, chart-topping live music and a healthy serving of good times. The whole weekend caters to families as much as grownups, with a dedicated area just for kids, and a jam-packed schedule of activities.

Wandsworth Arts Fringe Various venues www.wandsworthfringe.com 10-26 June Many free events, some online, most in person, in pubs, schools and libraries, something for all ages. Every year WAF takes over the borough with an eclectic programme of cutting-edge

comedy and theatre, breathtaking circus, music, dance, talks, ﬁlm, workshops, exhibitions, outdoor arts and much more. There’s plenty of fun for WAF’s littlest visitors too. Jellyﬁsh Theatre return with a new outdoor adventure for families in their travelling Wagon of Dreams, pitching up at Wandsworth estates throughout the festival. And Vintage Vendetta’s Meg and the Magic Toyshop, an interactive theatre show for under 5s, will delight young audiences at Wandsworth’s libraries with storytelling, songs and dancing.

SHOWS & CONCERTS Terrible Thames From Tower Bridge Quay www.terriblethames.com Daily tours Provided by the Horrible Histories team, this is a boat tour all about the history of the Thames with the nasty bits left in! There’s no better way to learn about the country's most

famous river and the incredible history of the nation's capital. Departing from Tower Bridge Quay, the fantastic journey incorporates immersive theatre to surprise and shock in equal measure as it delivers its unique take on London, thrilling both children and adults alike.

The Puppet Theatre Barge Opp Blomﬁeld Road W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com 21 May - 3 July The Hare and the Tortoise The story of the most famous race on earth is beautifully brought to life with some of Aesop’s other famous morality tales. Ages 3+.

Colourhouse Theatre Merton Abbey Mills SW19 2RD www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk Until 26 June Beauty and the Beast The beautiful Belle ﬁnds herself trapped in a strange castle in the heart of the French countryside, an unwilling guest of a mysterious, lovelorn Beast. Enjoy this musical adaptation of Madame de Villeneuve’s classic fairytale romance.

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Polka Theatre The Broadway SW19 1SB www.polkatheatre.com Until 22 May The Emperor’s New Clothes The Emperor likes nothing more than a fashion parade and you are all invited to ooh and ahh at his latest eyepopping outfit. Meet the vain Emperor, the pandering advisors who offer uncritical support, and the crowd, who fail to recognise the truth, preferring lies to flourish. Ages 3-8. 27 May - 5 June Snow White This joyful retelling of the classic Brothers Grimm fairy tale is about growing up, growing old, growing your own food and why you shouldn’t trust a very shiny red apple. Overflowing with charm and wit, this laughter-

The Exchange London Road, Twickenham TW1 1BE www.exchangetwickenham.co.uk 28 May Box Tale’s Little Grimm Tales What if wishes were granted? What if magic was real? Beasts and breadcrumbs, wolves and witches, frogs and fairies all join the fun in a stunning new adaptation of Grimm’s most magical tales. Ages 3+.

Southbank Centre Southbank SE1 8XX www.southbankcentre.co.uk 29 May OAE Tots: The King of the Sea Plunge into Poseidon’s underwater world in an interactive concert performed by the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment. Ages 2-5. FamiliesSWLondon

ﬁlled delight celebrates how we can all make the world a better place. Ages 5+. 20 May - 7 August The Paper Dolls Adapted from the acclaimed picture book created by former Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson with awardwinning illustration by Rebecca Cobb, the story comes to life with stunning puppetry and original music. Ages 3-7. 18 June - 20 August The Pirate, the Princess and the Platypus A brand new comic fairy-tale adventure about choosing your destiny, discovering your identity and ﬁnding your friends. Enter a magical musical world of pirate kings, queens, frogs, tall towers and shipwrecks; of French fancies and barrels of grog! Ages 5+.

Regents Park Open Air Theatre Regents Park NW1 4NU www.openairtheatre.com 12 July - 28 August 101 Dalmatians Join Pongo, Perdi and their adorable litter of puppies as they try to escape the clutches of everyone’s favourite villain, Cruella de Vil. Packed with puppetry and brilliant songs, this brand new musical adaptation of the classic story will be perfect for a summer’s day. BSL interpreted, audio described, captioned and relaxed performances also available. Shows and Concerts continued on p.44

May/June 2022 • Families South West 43

What’s On May/June 2022 Peacock Theatre Portugal Street WC2A 2HT www.sadlerswells.com

27-29 May Anne of Green Gables Anne is a lively, imaginative 11 year-old orphan who lives on Canada's Prince Edward Island. Adopted by an elderly brother and sister, Anne gets herself into endless scrapes but eventually wins over the community with her endearing, fearless character and passionate nature. A London Children’s Ballet production with a cast of 51 talented young dancers aged 9-16. Ages 5+.

Compiled by Robina Cowan

Royal Albert Hall Kensington Gore SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com 15 May Space Station Earth A breathtaking concert by awardwinning ﬁlm composer Ilan Eshkeri, featuring never-before-

Cambridge Theatre

Wyndham’s Theatre

Earlham Street WC2H 9HU www.lwtheatres.co.uk/theatres/c ambridge Matilda the Musical This is the story of an extraordinary little girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny. Don’t miss the multi-award winning musical from the Royal Shakespeare Company. Ages 6+.

Charing Cross Road WC2H 0DA www.wyndhamstheatre.co.uk Life of Pi After a cargo ship sinks in the middle of the vast Paciﬁc

Unicorn Theatre Tooley Street SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com 13 May - 12 June Get Dressed! This riotous, fun and touching show explores the relationship

between a child and her dad as they negotiate their world together. Ages 2-5. 1 June - 3 July Marvin’s Binoculars Join Marvin as he discovers wildlife and friendship in the most unlikely places. Touching on themes of racial prejudice, Marvin’s Binoculars is a highly engaging and vibrant show that will inspire children to explore the outdoors in their local green spaces. Ages 6-11.

BABY & TODDLER ACTIVITIES Glisten Polka Theatre SW19 1SB www.polkatheatre.com 11-15 May A sparkling and shimmering immersive journey exploring the world of reﬂective materials wrapped up in an ambient soundscape of evocative yet laid-back music. The empty space of the theatre becomes a sensory landscape. Ages 0-18 months.

44 Families South West • May/June 2022

Sadler’s Wells Theatre Rosebery Avenue EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com Last Friday of each month Family Fridays Dance workshops for accompanied children, facilitated by a freelance lead and supporting artist and managed by the Learning & Engagement Department. Ages 2-4, all abilities.

Prince Edward Theatre Old Compton Street W1D 4HS www.princeedwardtheatre.co.uk Mary Poppins Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s iconic

Bach to Baby Various venues www.bachtobaby.com Critically-acclaimed classical concerts for babies and their grownups. Outstanding

seen photos, light projections and videos taken by European Space Agency astronauts onboard the International Space Station, including footage by Sir Tim Peake.

Ocean, there are ﬁve survivors stranded on a lifeboat - a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, a Royal Bengal tiger, and a sixteen yearold boy named Pi. Time is against them, nature is harsh, who will survive? Featuring breathtaking puppetry and state-of-the-art visuals, this is an epic journey of endurance and hope. Ages 8+.

stage adventure is ﬁlled with music, lyric, dancing, incredible effects and of course - the world’s favourite nanny. Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!

Ciné Lumière Institut Français, Queensbury Place SW7 2DT www.institut-francais.org.uk/cinelumiere Join CinéFamilies for a mix of English and subtitled French language ﬁlms and events for all ages from babies to teens.

musicians put on exhilarating performances where babies can ‘join in’ with as much noise as they like! 5 May in Putney 13 May in Clapham & Battersea

familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On May/June 2022 BABY & TODDLER ACTIVITIES continued Mini Masterpieces

Adventure Babies

Dulwich Picture Gallery SE21 7AD www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk Last Thursday of every month Take your little one on a journey through the Gallery to discover people, places and animals in paintings, followed by a ‘messy play’ art-making activity. Ages under 5.

Natural History Museum SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk Every other Tuesday Sensory storytelling classes brought to you by award-winning Adventure Babies, ﬁlled with sensory props, magical stories, singing and messy play. Ages 0-4.

The British Museum Great Russell Street WC1B 3GD www.britishmuseum.org Until 17 July The World of Stonehenge Stonehenge is perhaps the world's most aweinspiring ancient stone circle. familiesonline.co.uk

Venues include the Natural History Museum, London Transport Museum, The Science Museum, Tower Bridge, the Postal Museum and British Library - check their websites for dates and details. 7 May and 18 June SENsory Sailors at the National Maritime Museum 29 May and 4 June SEND Explorers at London Transport Museum

Ancient Greek philosophers deﬁned themselves as ‘lovers of wisdom’ and for them, art, religion and science were inseparable.

Exhibition Road SW7 2DD www.sciencemuseum.org.uk Until 5 June Ancient Greeks: Science and Wisdom

V&A Museum Cromwell Road SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk/families Beatrix Potter: Drawn to Nature This family-friendly exhibition takes visitors on a journey to discover Potter’s life as a scientist and conservationist, exploring the places and animals that inspired her most beloved characters. In collaboration with the National Trust, featuring original paintings, letters and photographs.

Cromwell Road SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk Until 5 June Wildlife Photographer of the Year 100 powerful photographs tell the story of a planet under pressure. Gaze through the lens of some of the world's best wildlife photographers and marvel at the beauty of our planet. Once a month Dino Snores for Kids Spend a night amongst the museum’s incredible collections, exploring world class galleries after hours and sleeping beneath Hope, the breathtaking blue whale skeleton in Hintze Hall. After setting up camp in one of the amazing galleries, there’s an evening of awesome learning activities before bedtime, and breakfast in the morning. Ages 7-11.

A number of major London venues offer quieter sessions for visitors with SEN including those with an Autism Spectrum Condition, where they can enjoy everything on offer, free from the hustle and bustle of the general public.

Science Museum

MUSEUMS

Natural History Museum

SEN DAYS OUT

This exhibition displays rare and remarkable objects, most of which have never been seen before in the UK, alongside the latest scientiﬁc research into this ancient civilisation’s understanding of the universe. Free.

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Shrouded in layers of speculation and folklore, the iconic prehistoric monument has spurred myths and legends that persist today. This special reveals the secrets of Stonehenge, shining a light on its purpose, cultural power and the people who created it.

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London Transport Museum Covent Garden Piazza WC2E 7BB www.ltmuseum.co.uk Explore the heritage of London and its transport system, and the stories of the people who have travelled and worked in the city over the last 200 years. Legacies: London Transport’s Caribbean Workforce Many people know about the history of Windrush, but are less familiar with London Transport’s advertising recruitment campaign to attract employees directly from the Caribbean to London from 1956 to 1970. Uncover stories and memories from ﬁrst, second and third generation Caribbean people who worked for LT in the past and now work for its successor, Transport for London (TfL). FamiliesSWLondon

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May/June 2022 • Families South West 45

What’s On May/June 2022

Compiled by Robina Cowan

The Design Museum

MUSEUMS continued The Postal Museum Phoenix Place WC1X 0DA www.postalmuseum.org Ride through hidden tunnels and discover stories of Britain’s postal heritage through incredible objects, exciting stories and funﬁlled interactive displays. A Postal Play Space has sackloads of indoor play fun for under 8s. Until 1 January Sorting Britain From wartime tech pioneers to Poco the Postcode Elephant, this is the surprising story of the postcode. The Post Office innovation revolutionised how

Cutty Sark King William Walk SE10 9HT www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark 30 May - 3 June All Hands on Deck Explore how Cutty Sark works, communicates and celebrates through a series of hands-on activities and workshops including celebrating a royal visit, learning about signal ﬂags and tales from character actors. Various dates Rig Climb Experience Climb the famous

Kensington High Street W8 6AG www.designmuseum.org Until 29 August Football: Designing the Beautiful Game Whether you are a fanatical supporter, part-time punter or sporting sceptic, visitors to this exhibition will enjoy discovering the remarkable design stories behind the world's beautiful game, from stadium designs to team badges and innovations in kit creation.

Museum of London Docklands post was processed, sorted and delivered. masts and enjoy views of the Thames and London like no other. Visitors can traverse one of the ship’s lower yardarms before reaching the top platform, taking in the view from the rigging of a true London icon. Ages 12+. Weekends and school holidays Cutty Sark Characters Meet Captain Woodget, the ship’s most daring master, Nannie the ship’s ﬁgurehead, James Robson, the ship’s cook, and a 19th century dockworker, who all have special stories to tell. Ages 3+.

West India Quay E14 4AL www.museumoﬂondon.org.uk/do cklands Once upon a time, London was the hub of the world’s largest empire, and this museum tells its tales of trade, slavery, life in Victorian times and through the wars. Mudlarks is a free interactive space where under 8s can discover, explore and play. Admission free. Until 17 July Feeding Black: Community, Power & Place This free display at the Museum of London Docklands spotlights four African and Caribbean businesses and their owners, exploring how they are much more than the services and goods they provide.

The National Archives

Horniman Museum London Road SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk Until 30 October Cats and Dogs Discover more about our fascinating furry friends in this interactive, family-friendly exhibition offering a revealing pets’-eye view of the world.

Immersive displays explore the scientiﬁc, social and cultural role that cats and dogs play in our world, and invites visitors to go on an exciting, sensory journey, exploring what it’s like to be a cat or a dog. The exhibition is presented in three languages - English, French and Spanish - and also features animations developed by students from the London College of Communication, featuring their interpretations of the exhibition’s themes.

46 Families South West • May/June 2022

Kew, TW9 4DU www.nationalarchives.gov.uk 28 May Excavating the Egyptians Join the Time Travel Club for an exciting day of family activities to commemorate the 100 year anniversary of the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb in Egypt in 1922. The day will be ﬁlled with original documents, sensory and imaginative storytelling and a wide range of drop-in craft activities.

National Maritime Museum Romney Road, Greenwich SE10 9NF. www.rmg.co.uk 7 May and 18 June SENsory Sailors Families with children with special educational needs and disabilities are invited to explore the collection, enjoy the opportunity to be creative together as a family, and meet other local families. Sessions are led by a SEND specialist and respond to the needs of the participating families. Ages 13 and under. 22 June Windrush Day On 22 June 1948, the SS Empire Windrush arrived at Tilbury Docks.

The Foundling Museum Brunswick Square WC1N 1AZ www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk

Until 28 August Superheroes, Orphans and Origins Enter into the world of superheroes in this ﬁrst major exhibition to explore the representation of foundlings, orphans, adoptees, and foster children in comics, graphic novels and sequential art from around the globe. Windrush Day is an opportunity to celebrate the Windrush generation and acknowledge the contributions and sacriﬁces of British Caribbean communities. 21 May LGBTQ+ Family Network A safe space for local LGBTQ+ families to meet one another, get involved in creative activities for all ages and explore the stories within the collection. Free. Until 25 September Canaletto’s Venice Revisited This major exhibition displays the complete set of 24 Venetian views painted by Canaletto in the 1730s. On loan from the world-famous collection at Woburn Abbey, the works form the largest single commission the Italian artist ever received. Sundays Discover Sundays Each week a different artist takes families on a journey into the museum’s collection, featuring stories and creative activities. All ages, free.

Royal Observatory Greenwich Blackheath Avenue SE10 8XJ www.rmg.co.uk/royal-observatory Various dates The Sky Tonight A live show taking visitors on a tour of what can be seen in the night sky. See the stars, constellations, planets and moons, including a ﬂyout to the edge of the visible universe. Ages 7+. Various Ted’s Space Adventure Explore the solar system with a bear named Ted, learning about the things we ﬁnd there and how they affect us. Ages 3-7.

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What’s On May/June 2022 Elderﬂower Fields Festival

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Kew Royal Botanic Gardens Kew TW9 3AE www.kew.org Food Forever A summer programme looking at the future of food and the impact our day-to-day eating habits have on the world around us. Large scale art installations bring information to life in an engaging way. Kew for One Pound A new low-cost entry has been introduced for a visit to Kew Gardens and its sister site, Wakehurst in Sussex, for people in receipt of Universal Credit or Pension Credit. For families or other groups, there is also now a reduced price for early bookings.

Gifford’s Circus Chiswick House Gardens W4 2RP www.giffordscircus.com 16-27 June A magical village green circus is touring England throughout the summer. Performances combine dance, comedy, horses and live music in a beautiful white tent, surrounded by vintage-style burgundy showman’s wagons.

Commercial Street E1 6LZ www.vangoghexpo.com/london Until 30 May Encounter the brilliance of one of history’s greatest artists in 360 degrees. A 20,000 square foot light and sound spectacular featuring two-story

Hever Castle & Gardens Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG www.hevercastle.co.uk 2-5 June Platinum Jubilee Where better to celebrate the Jubilee than the home of two former queens of England - Anne Boleyn and Anne of Cleves. Follow a free trial to spot mischievous Corgi dogs, crowns, jewels and queens. It isn’t a celebration without food, so take your own party food and join a ‘street party’ style picnic ﬁt for royalty. Until 22 November Becoming Anne: Connections, Culture, Court Visit the childhood home of Anne Boleyn for an exhibition depicting her early life and learn how she became the woman who so caught Henry VIII’s eye.

Tate Modern

ART GALLERIES Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience

Pippingford Park, E Sussex TN22 3HW www.south.elderﬂowerﬁelds.co.uk 27-30 May A wild weekend family adventure. Packed full of music, sports, arts and nature, where children can be a little bit wild and free, complete with Sunday's huge family picnic and a big family dance-off.

projections of the artist’s most compelling works, the experience includes separate galleries that chronicle his life, technique, and inﬂuence through informative panels, larger than life re-creations and engaging interactives. Suitable for all ages, there is even a surprise at the end for young artists.

Bankside SE1 9TG www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern Surrealism Beyond Borders Spanning 80 years and 50 countries, the exhibition shows how Surrrealism inspired and united artists around the globe, offering artists the freedom to challenge authority and imagine a new world.

Dulwich Picture Gallery Gallery Road SE21 7AD www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk

The Wallace Collection Manchester Square W1U 3BN www.wallacecollection.org Until 16 October Inspiring Walt Disney: The Animation of French Decorative Arts The magic of Disney, as you have never seen it before! A selection of the ﬁnest 18th century furniture and

porcelain are shown alongside illustrations by artists in the Walt Disney Animations studios. Although separated by two centuries, the artists, craftsmen and animators all had the same ambition - to breathe life, character, and charm into the inanimate.

4 May - 4 September Reframed: The Woman in the Window Featuring artworks from ancient civilisations to present day, the exhibition brings together over 50 works by artists including Rembrandt Harmensz van Rijn, Dante Gabriel Rossetti, David Hockney, Louise Bourgeois, Cindy Sherman. The enigmatic motif of the ‘woman in the window’ is portrayed through painting, sculpture, print, photography and ﬁlm.

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May/June 2022 • Families South West 47