Issue 72 January/ February 2017
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London Surrey Borders
The little guide to little bilingual brains Early years focus feature Winter party themes What’s on in January & February CHEAM 020 8773 4242
BE GOOD AT BEING YOURSELF
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Creative Courage For Life
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WORCESTER PARK 020 8773 4242 London Surrey Borders
IT’S ALWAYS OPEN DOORS AT
So why not come and visit us? Call 020 8260 7508 to arrange to meet our Head, Sophie Bradshaw and to find out more about how we are inspiring, enabling and educating a new generation of incredible women.
Opening Doors to her Future www.croydonhigh.gdst.net
EXAM TIME.
BRING. IT. ON. Our expert tutors want nothing more than to motivate your child to learn and develop. With individualised courses, mapped to the National Curriculum, our tutors will support your child in centres bursting with positivity, helping them achieve their version of amazing. Explore fearless learning for your child by calling 030 3003 4006 to find your nearest centre and book a free trial today.
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In this issue... 4
Local news
5
Clubs & classes news
6
Education news
London Surrey Borders
7
Open day directory
www.familiesonline.co.uk Tel: 01923 775 680
8
Early years focus feature
10
Nursery directory
Editor Tamar Pearson editor@families-LSB.co.uk
12
The little guide to little bilingual brains
14
Winter party ideas
16
What’s on
19
Winter warming recipe
Design Rebecca Carr Printer Print Mates 21,000 copies printed 42,000 readers per issue Next issue March/ April 2017 Booking deadline 3 February 2017 Cover image: M&Co, PRShots
RSPB calls upon families to take part in the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch taking place from 28-30 January 2017 In the UK, gardens cover more area than all the country’s nature reserves combined, covering an estimated 10 million acres, the equivalent of 5 million football pitches. That is a huge amount of habitat for our little feathered friends, which is exactly why the RSPB calls upon families to take part in RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch
Editor’s note It’s a time of new beginnings. Spring lambing will soon be upon us, and signs of new life all around. It’s a time to welcome in a New Year. A year filled with secret promises of adventure ahead. May 2017 bring you and your family much happiness, love and laughter.
Tamar xx Disclaimer: Families London Surrey Borders Magazine is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families ® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families LSB Magazine is fully protected by copyright and non of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents.
To take part, simply spend one hour with your family counting the birds in your garden or local park, and record the highest number of each bird species seen at any one time. The morning is the best time to look, when the birds are out and about feeding after a cold winter night. You’ll see more birds if you give them a reason to come to you. One of the most important things you can do is make your garden a tasty spot for dinner. Get your garden ready – Some #FamilyFun ideas • • • • •
Produce a Pine Cone Feeder Assemble an Apple Bird Feeder Make a Bird Kebab Build a Self-Filling Water Tray Make a Speedy Bird Cake
For a full list of instructions www.rspb.org.uk/get-involved/activities/birdwatch/activities In 2016 the top ten sighted birds where: House Sparrow, Blue Tit, Starling, Blackbird, Woodpigeon, Goldfinch, Chaffinch, Great Tit, Robin, and for the first year the Long-Tailed Tit. Let’s see what 2017 will bring. To sign up for a free Big Garden Birdwatch 2017 pack, go to www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch
London Surrey Borders 3
News & Views
Should you let your child use a tablet?
A newly-launched research project aims to discover the influence technology has on children’s learning, social interactions and play, from birth to 47 months - and parents are invited to join in. Dr Elena Hoicka and PhD students from the University of Sheffield’s Department of Psychology are looking to discover whether technology, such as tablets, is good for children’s development, bad, or a bit of both. The survey asks questions about how long children use different types of technology such as a tablet or a television the previous day. It also asks questions about how children prefer to learn, what children understand about other people, and whether and how children engage in pretend play. Parents of children with low activities levels, such as newborns, are also invited to participate, as the researchers are interested in how technology impacts children right from the beginning. All participants will then be invited to repeat the survey six months later, which allows researchers to determine whether or not technology has had an impact. At the end of the survey, parents will receive a summary of their child’s learning style, social understanding, and play. It only takes around 20-30 minutes to register and complete the survey. To sign up or read more, go to https:// babylovesscience.com
Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools
SCHOOLS IN:
Croydon Mitcham
As a temporary measure, a free car sticker pack asking other drivers to ‘Give Me Space’ is available at www.givemespace.net. Follow the campaign, or join in the conversation using the hashtag #givemespace.
The BEGEARA BLACK PAW Laser Tag has arrived at The Good Ship Lollypop Soft Play Centre
This is where Space Warriors meet their match. On entering the exclusive Urban Jungle and armed with a state of the art “Phaser” each Space Warrior can Tag their opponent. Playing exciting games like Solo Warrior, Vampire and Zombie brings 100 mins. of fast paced action with a chance to re-fuel on Double Pizza Buffet and liquid refreshment – Lots of it! Finishing with the Big Award Ceremony Everyone is a Winner! The Space Warrior Party is fun for Boys and Girls from 7 years. So don’t miss out. Book a Laser Tag Party during Feb/March and the Birthday Warrior goes Free! For more information or to book your party email rosie@thegoodshiplollypop.co.uk
Give Me Space Campaign Calls for Safer Parking
007th Heaven comes to Croydon
I love it when my children pretend to be spies. They change into spy wear to become a ‘shadow’ and grab their walkie-talkies. So, when we heard a new game and party venue, Spy Missions had opened, we made it our mission to test it out. For around an hour, my boys enjoyed an adrenaline-fuelled journey around various dimly-lit rooms of the ship. The boys became engrossed in cracking codes, selecting leaders and solving puzzles in order to progress. Eventually we emerged from the ‘ship’, blinking and found ourselves back, safe and sound in the mess room to enjoy a wellearned Ribena and a fun-sized pack of Haribos.
A new parent-led campaign has recently been launched in a bid to lobby government to introduce official recommendations on the number of parent and child spaces made available in public car parks.
So, was it a case of mission accomplished? A good spy could never reveal such details!
The Give Me Space campaign will present a ‘White Paper’ to Government which will include the petition outcome, case studies of unsafe parking scenarios caused by the lack of allocated spaces, requirements of the spaces including dimensions and positioning, as well as age limits and misuse deterrents, and list of key ambassadors willing to support the change.
Big shows, small prices
Written by Zena Ali. For more information please visit www.spymissions.co.uk
Get Into London Theatre is back, and running until 10 February. With over 50 participating productions ranging from plays and musicals to dance and opera, the scheme covers the full range of extraordinary shows on London’s stages, with tickets from just £10. www.getintolondontheatre.co.uk
holiday activity camps 2016 • Mini Mice ~ 5 -7 years • Cool Cats ~ 8-10 years • Top Dogs ~ 11-14 years
NEW : OL IN SCHO
Sutton
3–18 years TWO WEEK TRIAL AVAILABLE!
020 8447 4530 www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk 4 January/ February 2017
• From £18 per day/£79 per week Camps are 9.30am until 4.30pm. Morning sessions and extended days available. • We organise Kids Parties too!
Call us for more info on 020 8657 9313 or visit www.croydonsportsclub.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk
Clubs & Classes News
A sad farewell to Monkey Music South Croydon & Caterham Monkey Music South Croydon and Caterham will no longer be trading as of January 2017. Families LSB would like to wish Karen and her team all the luck and happiness with their new adventures. I know there are many little feet walking around South Croydon who have enjoyed your classes. To find the nearest Monkey Music class to you please visit www.monkeymusic.co.uk
BAFTA success at Stagecoach Merton Park
Stagecoach Merton Park have recently had good cause for celebration as one of their students, Joel Guy, landed a lead role in a CBBC series called Secret Life of Boys. He has just finished filming the second series and the show has been awarded a BAFTA for the best interactive original. The interactive drama/comedy follows the life of Ginger as she flies from Australia to the UK to live with her four cousins she’s never met before. The summer turns out to be fun, surprising, loud and messy! Joel was an previously unknown actor to television and landed the role after impressing Director Beryl Richards at a brief filming session to explore the script in its early days. Joel’s Stagecoach classes and Lamda exams taken at the performing arts school helped to give Joel the skills and confidence needed for the challenge of working in teleivison. If you want more information on Stagecoach Merton Park, Mitcham and Tooting please contact Tim Guy on: 02089423502 or email at mertonpark@stagecoach.co.uk. www. stagecoach.co.uk/mertonpark.
in January. I am so excited about going to London every week, working with the rest of the cast – I just love performing!” Monnie of Spotlights Theatre School said, “We are totally “thrilled” for Marcellus – he totally deserves this role. We have booked our tickets for the show and now I can’t wait to see him moonwalk!” If your child would like the opportunity to audition for professional roles in theatre, TV and film the first step is to get in touch with Spotlights to try one of our performing arts classes. We offer all new students a free trial. The nearest classes held by Spotlights Theatre School to you are at Old Palace of John Whitgift School, CR2 7YN on Saturday mornings. For more information please visit www.spotlightstheatre.co.uk or call 020 8460 5711. For details and to book tickets for Thriller Live! www.thrillerlive.com
To feature your club or class news in our next issue please email: editor@families-lsb.co.uk
55x70_alison.qxp_Layout 9 25/08/2016 10:52 Pa
Spotlights Theatre School student, Marcellus, will play the role of young Michael Jackson in the West End show – Thriller Live! - starting in January Marcellus started this journey by nailing his audition in front of a top West End casting director and got through to Young Michael Jackson (YMJ) School. He was very busy over the summer learning drama, dance and singing twice a week at the intensive YMJ School training course in preparation for playing Michael in the show. Marcellus said, “I can’t wait to start the show
Learn to dance, act & sing
For classes of pure MADness, join MAD Academy
Birthday Parties Too!
Babies from 3 months action songs and sensory stimulation Walkers to 2 years music, movement and motor development 2 to 4 years dance, musicality and beat competency
Classes in Croydon & surrounding areas Call Alison on 020 8407 1726 or email: alison.storey@madacademy.com
madacademy.com Music And Dance and a whole lot of fun!
The Good Ship Lollypop
Little Stars (4 – 6 years) Stars 1, 2 & 3 (7 – 16 years) Star 4 (16 – 18 years) Calling all Stars 1, 2 & 3 (7-16yrs)... we are now holding auditions to take part in...
Funky and Fun Soft Play Venue with Amazing Birthday Party Packages
Free trial sessions
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are available at all classes
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O7703 566411 rosie@thegoodshiplollypop.co.uk www.thegoodshiplollypop.co.uk
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Beckenham | Bromley | Croydon | Orpington Sanderstead | South Croydon | West Wickham
KNK Staduim, Imperial Fields, Bishopford Rd, Morden, Surrey, SM4 6BD
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Education News
within local schools, it’s why all our meals are produced on site, from scratch, using fresh, nutritionally balanced ingredients.”
and were also given the opportunity to lay a brick, watch the machinery work and even view the show home.
To find out more about Pabulum’s approach to fresh food and commitment to health and wellbeing, visit www.pabulum-catering.co.uk
For further information on Oasis Academy Byron please visit www.oasisacademybyron. org and for further information on Cane Hill Park, visit www.barratthomes.co.uk
Bursary opportunities at St Christopher’s School, Epsom Professional one to one tutoring
Fleet Tutors has been matching the right tutor to the education needs of students across the UK since 1977. Our network of tutors are subject specialists who tailor the teaching and learning experience to relieve any subject specific anxieties and help build your child’s confidence so they achieve a successful outcome. For a helpful discussion about your requirements, speak to our knowledgeable tuition consultants today on 0333 920 2545.
Private schools to offer 10,000 free places to children from lower-income backgrounds
Private schools will offer to provide up to 10,000 free school places a year to children from low-income families in England. The Independent Schools Council (ISC) says if the government pays £5,550 per place – the cost of a place in the state system – the remainder of the cost will be covered by the schools. The ISC was responding to pressure from the government to do more for their state school counterparts in return for charitable status, which allows for tax breaks. The scheme, which would test some children on academic ability, would be open to primary and secondary school-age children.
St Christopher’s School is a co-educational pre-preparatory school for children aged between 3 and 7 years. Set in Epsom, this charming school received acclaim in February 2016 from Inspectors who recognised the success of its aim to create a happy school with a broad and challenging education within a caring and secure family context. As well as declaring the School to be ‘excellent in all areas’ the Inspectors commented that the school provided for the children; “The best possible start to their education’. St Christopher’s is a Charitable Trust run by a committed Board of Governors who enjoy “an exceptional level of involvement in the life of the whole school” reinvesting annually to enhance the excellent provision. The School is committed to sharing the ‘inspirational teaching’ and ‘irresistible learning’ with the community by providing generous annual Bursaries. Excellent in all areas? Come and find out why with a personal tour around this impressive school. Phone for an appointment on 01372 721807. Next Open Morning will be on Friday 10th February. Clear and helpful information about the Bursary process may be obtained by contacting Mrs Gordon a.gordon@stchristophers.surrey.sch.uk
Inspiring Girls Hockey at Greenacre School - Alex Danson Olympic Gold Medallist and English Hockey player #ifitsnotrainingitsnottraining! Year 5 girls at Greenacre School had the great experience of meeting GB Olympic Gold medallist and England Hockey player Alex Danson, whilst running a Hockey Workshop at Greenacre School.
60 girls from Greenacre and other local schools including Caterham Prep, Rowan Prep, Surbiton High Girls’ Prep, St Ives, Aberdour, Bramley, Cumnor House Girls, and Seaton House braved the torrential rain and were put through their paces in hockey practices, followed by matches in a versatility tournament on Greenacre’s onsite all weather pitch. Alex praised the girls for their determination and resilience in the wet weather conditions and shared with the Great Britain Hockey catch phrase of #ifitsnotrainingitsnottraining, which had certainly put to the test that morning! Alex demonstrated her impressive hockey skills whilst leading a warm up, similar to that of the GB Team. She was truly inspirational and proudly showed off her most favoured possession - her Gold medal from Rio 2016!
Award winning meals for local children living in Croydon
Pabulum, an Education caterer boasting to use only fresh food in the meals they serve, who cater for number of local schools in the Croydon area including All Saints Infant and Junior School, Downsview Primary School, Rockmount Primary School (a Croydon Food Flagship school) and Monks Orchard Primary School, has picked up a prestigious industry award. The company triumphed at The Foodservice Cateys, a series of awards which recognise contract catering companies across the UK. Tony Wicking at Pabulum was delighted with the achievement and commented: ‘’We continue to work hard towards creating a food culture
6 January/ February 2017
Oasis Academy Byron pupils discover how to make Dream Homes at Cane Hill Park
For more information and photos, please contact: Adrienne Forster, Head of Marketing and Admissions, 01737 363601 adrienne.forster@greenacre.surrey.sch.uk
Year 5 pupils from Oasis Academy Byron in Coulsdon recently had the opportunity to put their design skills to the test as they were invited to learn from the housebuilding experts at Barratt Homes at its nearby Cane Hill Park development. The visit was organised as pupils at Oasis Academy Byron School are currently undertaking a design project which includes a 3D design topic, whereby they have been tasked with designing their dream home.
A fearless start to the year
The 9 and 10-year-old pupils were taught how to turn drawings into bricks and mortar
For us, a child’s educational journey goes beyond acing a quick spelling test or getting
Why fearless you might ask? And what does this even mean?
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to the top of the class for a term. It is about building long-lasting confidence that takes them through their entire life, whether it is through developing a ‘have a go attitude’, or knowing it’s ok to put their hand up without fear of a ‘silly’ question being mocked, or simply feeling excited about their next step. It’s about nurturing a sense of pride, and a fearless attitude to learning, so that every child can become their version of amazing. Our incredible tutors are there to support every step of the way. Rather than a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’, they will ask: “are you sure?” or “can you convince me of your answer?”, allowing children to explore and push the boundaries of their thinking each day. To celebrate the new year, and all of the potential it brings, we would like to offer you a little something to help your child along their fearless learner journey. From the 16th January until the 28th February, you’ll save £50 when you join any one of our maths and English tuition centres. To find out which one is closest to you and to book your free trial, check out our website: explorelearning.co.uk/offer.
Private Home Tutoring All academic subjects and key stages • 7/8/11+ • 13+/Common Entrance • GCSE/A level • University
0333 920 2758 www.fleet-tutors.co.uk
School Open Days All details were correct at the time we went to print. Before setting out please check details with the venue in case they have changed and don’t forget to tell them you saw them in Families London-Surrey Caterham School Harestone Valley Rd, CR3 6YA 01883 343028 Visitor Morning Wed 8 Feb 9.30 – 11.15am www.caterhamschool.co.uk Collingwood School 3 Springfield Road , SM6 0BD 020 8647 4607 Open Day Sat 25 Feb & Sat 6 May 10am – 12 pm www.collingwoodschool.org.uk Croydon High School Old Farleigh Rd, CR2 8YB 020 8260 7508 admissions@cry.gdst.net Nursery Entrance Assessment Tues 17 Jan Years 1 to 6 Assessment Wed 18 Jan Reception Assessment Thur 19 Jan www.croydonhigh.gdst.net Cumnor House Boys & Tree Tops Nursery (Pampisford Rd) 168 Pampisford Rd, CR2 6DA 020 8660 3445 Open Day 27 Feb www.cumnorhouse.com Cumnor House Girls & Tree Tops Nursery 1 Woodcote Ln , CR8 3HB 020 8668 0050 Open Day 27 Feb www.cumnorhouse.com Essendene Lodge Essendene Rd, CR3 5PB 018 8334 8349 Pupils aged 2 – 11 years Open Days Thurs 26 Jan www.essendenelodge.co.uk Ewell Castle Junior and Senior Church St, KT17 2AW 020 8393 1413 admissions@ewellcastle.co.uk Whole School Open Morning Sat 28 Jan 10am – 12pm www.ewellcastle.co.uk Homefield Preparatory Western Road, SM1 2TE 020 8642 0965 Open Morning Wed 25 Jan 9.20am – 11.30am www.homefield.sutton.sch.uk Kingswood House School, Epsom 56 West Hill, KT19 8LG 01372 723590 Open Morning Thurs 23 and Sat 25 Feb 9.30am – 12pm www.kingswoodhouse.org
w w w. gre enacre. surrey. sch .uk
Manor House School & Nursery Manor House Lane, KT23 4EN 013 7245 7077
Reception Class Taster Morning Tues 31 Jan 9am – 12.30pm www.manorhouseschool.org Old Palace School of John Whitgift Preparatory - 2 Melville Ave, CR2 7YN Senior-Old Palace Rd CR0 1AX 020 8688 2027 Tea Open Day Tues 17 Jan 2–4pm Open Morning Sat 21 Jan 2–4pm Working Open Morning Fri 23 Jan 9.30 am – 11am Tea Open Morning Wed 25 Feb 2-4pm www.oldpalaceofjohnwhitgift.org Priory Preparatory Bolters Lane, SM7 2AJ 01737 366920 office@prioryprep.co.k Open Morning Fri 13 Jan 9.30am, 10.15am & 11am www.prioryprep.co.uk Seaton House School 67 Banstead Rd South, SM2 5LH 020 8642 2332 Open Morning Sat 25 Feb 10am – 12.30pm Drop in morning 9.30am – 11.30am www.seatonhouse.sutton.sch.uk St Christopher’s School 6 Down’s Rd, KT18 5HE 01372 721807 Open Morning Fri 10 Feb 9am – 11am www.st-christophers.surrey.sch.uk Sutton High, Nursery and Juniors 86 Grove Rd Sutton, SM1 2AL 020 8225 3075 Sutton High Seniors 55 Cheam Rd, SM1 2AX 020 8642 0594 Open Morning Senior School & Sixth Form Thurs 2 Feb 9am Open Morning Nursery & Junior School Thurs 19 Jan 9am www.suttonhigh.gdst.net Thames Christian College Wye St, SW11 2HB 020 7228 3933 info@thameschristiancollege.org. uk Open Day - Thu 27 Feb 11am – 1pm www.thameschristiancollege.org. uk Whitgift School Haling Park, London, CR2 6YT 020 8688 9222 office@whitgift.co.uk Open Day - 27 Apr 1.45pm – 4pm www.whitgift.co.uk
London Surrey Borders 7
Nursery News
emergency services. After the group discussion Police Sergeant Underwood invited the boys and staff outside to see the marked police car. The boys (and staff!) had great fun as he allowed them to see the lights flashing and hear the very loud siren. Everyone thanked Police Sergeant Underwood for coming to visit at the Priory. For more information please visit www.prioryprep.co.uk
Sutton High Nursery Open days 19th Jan & 22nd March Ladybirds, spiders and caterpillars are all welcome to stay in the Sutton High School Bug Hotel! The nursery children love learning and playing outside in the wonderful garden area. They were keen to encourage minibeasts to play there too, so got to work thinking about the types of habitats the bugs might like. They helped to build a bug hotel with different rooms of wood, straw, leaves and twigs. The girls can often be found searching for bugs in the garden then gently carrying them over to the habitats they think would suit them best. They have developed early science skills of questioning and investigating, as well as careful observation of the insects using magnifying glasses. As the seasons change, the children have been motivated to find out about life cycles and growing. They are learning to care for the world around them and their sense of excitement and wonder continues. Visit www.suttonhigh.gdst.net for more information
New New to to Treetops Treetops Nursery Nursery -- Year-round education Year-round education for for children children from from the the age age of of 2 2 At At the the two two ‘outstanding’ ‘outstanding’ Treetops Treetops Nurseries in Nurseries in Purley Purley and and South South Croydon, Croydon, part of of the the Cumnor Cumnor House House School School group, group, part we we have have widened widened the the provision provision offered offered to to parents. parents. Previously Previously only only term-time term-time opening was available in opening was available in line line with with schools. schools. Now we we are are now now offering offering year-round year-round Now education education (08.00 (08.00 – – 18.00) 18.00) for for children children from from the age of 2. the age of 2. In In the the increasingly increasingly competitive competitive world world of of school school places, places, we we recognise recognise that that local local parents parents are are anxious anxious to to give give their their children children the best start in life, while still the best start in life, while still being being able able to continue continue in in their their own own careers. careers. That That is is to why why we we are are responding responding to to this this demand demand and and offering offering our our usual usual high high levels levels of of nursery teaching all year-round. nursery teaching all year-round. There There is is still the the option option to to continue continue with with term-time term-time still only only provision, provision, if if preferred. preferred.
Author of A Pre-school Alphabet book & A Treasury of African Namesand alumnae, Noma Sidopa, visits Greenacre School Early Years pupils at Greenacre School recently enjoyed a visit from alumnae Noma Sidopa, author of A Pre-school Alphabet book & A Treasury of African Names, with her friend, alumna and paediatricion, Dr Lucy Reynolds and Dr Reynolds mother, Mrs Gill Reynolds. We were interested to learn that Mellow House, which now houses Early Years and Years 1 & 2 pupils, was once a boarding house and that Mrs Reynolds was at Greenacre during the Second World War, when the whole school was evacuated. Auntie Noma read her book to us and we learned some new action songs such as Grandma’s Hat, accompanied by Dr Reynolds’ ukulele! For more information on Greenacre School visit www.greenacre.surrey.sch.uk
Many Many of of our our Nursery Nursery children children go go onto onto the the Cumnor House Cumnor House Schools Schools for for Boys Boys or or Girls Girls when when they they reach reach Reception Reception age, age, which which already offers very flexible arrangements already offers very flexible arrangements for for working working parents parents with with after after school school care care and shuttle shuttle buses buses between between sites sites to to ease ease and the the stresses stresses of of drop-offs drop-offs and and pick-ups. pick-ups. For more information, or to For more information, or to arrange arrange a a visit visit please call 020 8660 3445 , or visit www. please call 020 8660 3445 , or visit www. cumnorhouse.com cumnorhouse.com
Police Sergeant Underwood visits Priory Police Sergeant Underwood visited the Early Years department at Priory Prep. He spoke to Nursery and Reception by explaining what his role as a Sergeant involves. He asked the children lots of questions to encourage the boys to think for themselves about the different 8 January/ February 2017
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School and Nursery Visits to Bocketts Farm Bocketts Farm has been welcoming schools and conducting educational visits since they opened more than 22 years ago. They held a Schools Satisfaction Survey in 2014, in which 97% of school rated the ‘Overall Experience’ category as ‘Excellent’. Enjoy a fun and educational day out at the farm with your nursery group! The educational package includes a barn reserved for your picnic lunch, a personal farm leader, private animal handling and goat milking session, tractor and trailer ride, pig race and free time to play. Please call the office to check availability and to make a booking. Cost is £7.60 per person with one free adult per 8 children. If you are interested in your nursery, or child’s nursery having a day out on the farm please call 01372 363764, or visit www.bockettsfarm.co.uk for more information.
To feature your nursery or school in our next issue please email: editor@families-lsb.co.uk
Deciding which childcare options are best for your family Nanny
Nannies provide one-to-one care for your child in your family home, which allows for plenty of attention and stimulation for your child to develop. Having childcare in your home allows your child to adjust more gradually to you returning to work along with the familiarity of being at home with all their own toys and routines. If you work long hours, a nanny will be more flexible than other childcare providers as they can do the homework, dinner and bedtime. All nannies should have a valid police check undertaken on them (DBS) and would have a background in childcare. Although employing a nanny is expensive, you could look into the option of a nanny share with another family. If your nanny is Ofsted registered, you can use childcare vouchers to help offset the cost of paying for a nanny.
Nursery
Nurseries provide childcare in a group setting to children of a similar age group. The nursery staff are trained to create a fun and happy environment for your child to play and develop in a group. This can help them gain confidence and develop social skills. The age range of nursery enrolment varies from each nursery, starting from birth to 4 years old. If you’re on a low income, you may be able to claim tax credits to help
towards the cost of childcare. All 3-4 years old are eligible to 10-16 hours free childcare per week, which will also help to offset your childcare costs. One of the main cons is that if your child is sick, they cannot attend nursery. Also, nurseries have opening and closing hours which is an issue if you work late. The nursery will also close for holiday periods, which means you would need to ensure you have alternative childcare options in case of any of these eventualities.
Childminder
Childminders are registered to care for only six children younger than 8 years old (including their own child). Only three of these should be 5 years old or younger, and only one should be under 1 year old. The number of children the childminder may have will be dependent on the size of her home and if she employs an assistant. As the children can be of varying age, it means your child would benefit from mixing with children of different ages. One of the main cons is not all childminders collect children from school/nursery. Childminders are inspected regularly to ensure that they provide good quality care. Written by Manjit Shah, Director of Buttons Nanny Agency. www.buttonsnannyagency.com
A home from home where your child can learn, play and flourish ■ Part time and full time ■ Nanny care at home and nursery ■ Qualified nannies ■ Available locally
AWARD-WINNING AWARD-WINNING For more information: 0203 764 2555 www.asquithnannies.co.uk roseanna@asquithnannies.co.uk
Nursery and Pre-school • Beautiful, modern facilities with Come and see for custom-made outdoor play areas yourself. We would • Passionate, dedicated childcare teams love to show you • Freshly prepared nutritious menus, around. Please call developed with Annabel Karmel, to arrange a visit on cooked onsite by our nursery chefs 020 8770 3222 • Great locations and extended opening hours www.fennies.com
Croydon • Epsom • Horley • Purley • Sanderstead • South Croydon London Surrey Borders 9 6734 Magazine ads.indd 1
29/11/2016 12:02
Nursery Directory
Priory Prep Nursery
Bolters Lane, Banstead, SM7 2AJ 01737 366920 www.prioryprep.co.uk The incredible nursery at Priory Preparatory school welcomes boys from the age of two and gives them the perfect introduction to school life. The outstanding staff create a sensitive and happy environment, in which boys thrive and gain confidence.
Buttons Nanny Agency
www.buttonsnannyagency.com Buttons Nanny Agency have over 24 years experience in placing high-calibre nannies with families in Surrey and surrounds. By registering with Buttons Nanny Agency, you will be assured of a truly professional caring service. They operate to very high standards within the childcare industry. All perspective candidates have face to face interviews and original copies of their paperwork and checked carefully by one of their consultants. References are checked personally by Buttons. Candidates introduced to you will be of the highest calibre. It is their aim to provide the best Nanny Agency aftercare service. They are very thorough and have a very high success rate, but in the unlikely event of a client or candidate is entirely happy, they have an 8 week guarantee period.
Croydon High School Nursery
Old Farleigh Rd, Croydon CR2 8YB 020 8260 7508 admissions@cry.gdst.net www.croydonhigh.gdst.net When your daughter joins Croydon High Nursery, she’ll be welcomed into a warm and caring environment where learning is fun and being happy is always the most important thing. With years of experience teaching girls, Croydon High Nursery know that girls respond best when they feel secure and happy. Girls join the Nursery following their third birthday and they can stay for mornings (8.30am – 12pm) or full days (8.30am-3pm) – although a minimum of five mornings is expected. Croydon High Nursery is a very special place …welcoming visitors at all times, so why not come and see for yourself?
Fennies Day Nursery & Preschool
Croydon, Sanderstead, Purley, South Croydon, & Epsom admissions@fennies.com 02087703222 www.fennies.com Fennies opened 25 years ago with the philosophy that every child deserves the best start in life with a happy, stimulating environment in which to learn, play and flourish. Fennies have eight charming familyrun nurseries that offer high quality childcare and early years learning for children aged three months to five years. Each Fennies Nursery & Preschool has its own appeal with wonderfully resourced settings, custom made outdoor spaces and passionate, dedicated childcare teams. They are situated in the heart of the community with car parks and buggy parks for safe, convenient drop-offs and excellent transport links for commuters. Fennies partner with Annabel Karmel to create delicious and nutritious menus, freshly prepared and cooked onsite that even the fussiest eaters enjoy. Prospective parents are encouraged to visit anytime and Saturday show rounds are available monthly.
Our team of highly experienced and qualified staff will support your children in getting the most from their first educational experience in a calm, well planned and fun environment. We introduce learning and challenge through a multitude of new play experiences to ensure all children thrive and are prepared in terms of learning and personal development for their next step in their educational journey. Come and see for yourself the special atmosphere we are very proud of in our two Treetops nurseries.
10 January/ February 2017
At certain times of the year, the boys visit our Woodland School where they take part in a variety of Woodland activities, designed to enhance their learning by gradually building their skills and confidence of working and playing in a natural environment. Dressed in their waterproofs and wellies, the boys enjoy the experience of collecting leaves, splashing in puddles and generally investigating!
St Christopher’s Nursery
6 Down’s Rd, Epsom, KT18 5HE 01372 721807 www.st-christophers.surrey.sch.uk St Christopher’s Nursery enjoys a spacious five room setting alive with colour and activity. The Nursery is well resourced with two interactive whiteboards and child friendly computers. In addition, the outdoor provision includes an allweather classroom, a playhouse and a popular children’s vehicle area, all set in beautiful, secure grounds. The children are divided into small groups each with a key worker. Two qualified specialist teachers are responsible for the planning and delivery of the ambitious and creative curriculum. The teachers work together with a team of six qualified Foundation Stage Assistants and a Lead Nursery Nurse.
Cumnor House, Treetops Nursery
91 Pampisford Road, South Croydon CR2 6DH and 13 Woodcote Lane, Purley CR8 3HB 020 8660 3445 registrar@cumnorhouse.com www.cumnorhouse.com Treetops Nursery (rated ‘Outstanding’ in 2013 Ofsted EYFS report) is part of the Cumnor House School group and has two sites for you to choose from, either Purley or South Croydon. Children can join from the age of 2 and often continue on with their education at one of the two single-sex Cumnor House Prep Schools.
The boys have their own well-resourced, lively and colourful classrooms and a bespoke outdoor play area. Being very much a part of the whole school, they also have access to a range of facilities such as the Sports Fields and Computer Room and specialist teaching staff for music.
Sutton High Nursery & Junior School Kingswood House School
56 West Hill, Epsom, Surrey. KT19 8LG 01372 723590 admissions@kingswoodhouse.org www.kingswoodhouse.org Kingswood House is one of the most successful boy’s prep schools in Surrey. A thriving community in the heart of Epsom, small class sizes, friendly atmosphere and first-class teaching ensure our pupils flourish academically and outside the classroom. Boys participate in every aspect of school life in a secure and spacious environment. Developing KHS for the future, KHS have a new impressive Junior School and an inspirational Pre-Prep Department. KHS work extremely closely with a range of prestigious senior schools so pupils can be sure they are moving on to the right school for them. Year 8 Leavers achieve outstanding results with a range of Scholarships awarded every year.
86 Grove Road, Sutton Surrey, SM1 2AL 020 8225 3003 d.young@sut.gdst.net www.suttonhigh.gdst.net At Sutton High School our priority is to enable girls to be happy, confident and independent. Our belief is that when girls enjoy coming to school they develop a love of learning and feel supported to try challenges and discover their individual talents and gifts. We aim to develop your daughter both pastorally and academically, based on knowing her personality and her skills set.
We would be delighted to welcome you to learn how we value the whole girl, from our academic focus through a connected curriculum to their enrichment in our extracurricular programme. We are ideally situated on a green and leafy site with our Junior School and Senior School on the same campus so transition into Senior School life is the natural next step.
www.familiesonline.co.uk
BOYS OPEN DAY 13TH JANUARY 9.30AM TO 11AM An inspiring independent education for girls from Nursery to Sixth Form Join us at one of our Open Events:
Whole School Open Morning Saturday 24 September 10am
Senior School - Tuesday 18 October 9am Junior School - Thursday 19 January 9am
WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU! Cumnor House School for Boys aged 4-13. Visit us at 168 Pampisford Road, South Croydon, CR2 6DA TEL: 0208 660 3445
WWW.CUMNORHOUSE.COM
Book online or email: admissions@sut.gdst.net 020 8642 0594 www.suttonhigh.gdst.net
Junior School - 86 Grove Road Sutton Surrey SM1 2AL Senior School - 55 Cheam Road Sutton Surrey SM1 2AX
Woodland School Each week, boys from our Nursery and Pre-Prep classes visit our Woodland School where they take part in a variety of Woodland activities. Come and hear more about this and everything else we have to offer at one of our Open Mornings:
Friday 13th January Friday 3rd February Saturday 4th March
9.30am - 11am 9.30am - 11am 10am - 12noon
Please contact Su Brailey, Admissions Manager if you would like to attend an Open Morning or arrange a tour of the School. sbrailey@prioryprep.co.uk | 01737 366 942
Bolters Lane Banstead Surrey, SM7 2AJ www.prioryprep.co.uk
London Surrey Borders 11
as possible, and you involve your child in as much conversation as possible will lead to better abilities in one, two or more languages. Have a plan. It is important to think about what ‘bilingualism’ means for your family. Would you like your child to have a basic understanding of another language? Are you hoping for your child to be fluent in two languages? Or read and write in two different languages? Make sure you provide plenty of experience for your child to achieve each of these goals. It might be a good idea to decide on a language to be used at home. One parent may decide to use one language when addressing their child, while the other parent will use a different language. Think of the language(s) you want to use when reading to your child or singing to them. The more exposure your child will get in one language, the more fluent they are likely to become in that language.
The little guide to little bilingual brains
Dr Evelyne Mercure
Infants and young children have an impressive capacity for learning languages. They are curious, very eager to communicate and their brains are designed for fast learning.Bilingual families have an interesting opportunity of making the most of these early learning capacities in teaching their children two languages from birth. There are several interesting advantages to raising bilingual children. Bilingualism does not cause language delays. Bilingual children usually learn two languagesat the same pace as monolingual children are learning one. For example, bilinguals say their first words and start combining words into sentencesat the same age as monolinguals.Bilinguals may sometimes appear to know fewer words than monolinguals, but this is usually because their vocabulary is divided between two languages. Learning two languages encourages children to think about languages. Young monolinguals might struggle to recognise that ‘caterpillar’ is a bigger word than ‘whale’ because they find it difficult to dissociate a word from its meaning. Bilingualism attracts children’s attention to language itself, making children more aware of the sounds, words and regularities in languages. This gives them a head start in school when learning phonics or grammar rules.
Bilingualism might make your child better at multi-tasking or listening to someone speaking in a noisy environment. When speaking one of their languages, bilinguals must inhibit the impulse to use words in their other language. To achieve this task, they activate parts of their brain involved in cognitive control. This extra practice at controlling theirown thoughts may lead to a‘bilingual advantage’ in certain cognitive tasks. Mastering two languages will give children a better understanding of their family’s cultural background. The most unique aspects of a culture always risk getting lost in translation.For this reason, being bilingual helps children become ‘bicultural’, making them more aware of cultural differences and more likely to take part in two cultures. Every family and every child is different. There are a million different ways of raising bilingual children and the most important is to find a way that feels right for your family. Here are a few tips that can help making these decisions for your family. Maximise face-to-face communication. From the first days of life, babies love making eye contact and hearing their loved ones speak, vocalise and sing. Face-to-face communication is the motor of language learning and early experience is key. Making sure you talk to your baby as much
Keep it fun. Your child’s motivation to learn each of their languages will make a huge difference to their achievement. A child may find it unpleasant if they feel constantly tested and criticised when speaking. The main focus should be on what is being said and not how it is being said. Find role models. One way of keeping their motivation up, may be to involve people who are not fluent in your child’s dominant language. This may encourage them to use a language they are less comfortable in. It will also show them that this language is spoken by people other than mum and/ or dad. Children will also learn a lot from other children, especially older ones. They will want to speak like them and adopt their accent and expressions. Cousins who are not fluent in your child’s dominant language, for instance, may become excellent role models and a very good source of motivation. Offering a bilingual environment to your child is a richness they will benefit from all their life. They may not only learn two languages, but also a new way of thinking about cultural diversity. Do not be afraid of making the most of their incredible language learning abilities! About the author: Evelyne Mercure studied Speech & Language Pathologies, Neuroscience and Psychology. She is currently an ESRC fellow at UCL Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, investigating the impact of language experience on infants’ brain and cognitive development. She is also the proud mum of three bilingual children.
Let us learn Spanish with Teresa Postigo
• • • •
Primary, GCSE, AS-A2 Level and IB New GCSE taught from Sept 16 Exam preparation Customised classes to suit each student level
• • • •
Improve your Spanish skills Flexible hours Native speaker, experience and qualified to teach Spanish as a foreign language Passionate to inspire all ages
Sutton l Wallington l Purley l Cheam and Croydon For more information please contact Teresa on 07711 355450
12 January/ February 2017
Comprenant l’étude de la langue écrite et orale. Programme pédagogique français. New French classes New French classes opening in Sept 2016 for all primary primary school school children children. Le samedi après-midi à Wray Common School, Reigate RH2 0LR Contactez-nous 07913 811345 info@petite-ecole-reigate.co.uk | www.petite-ecole-reigate.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk
Bocketts Farm Park 11th - 19th Feb 2017
FEBRUARY HALF TERM FUN ENJOY FREE RANGE FAMILY FUN THIS FEBRUARY HALF TERM!
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Daily birds of prey flying demonstrations! (Mon-Fri only)
Early Spring lambing starts
HEATED PLAYBARN & SEATING AREA!
Visit the Pony Parlour
E: banstead.claygate@monkeymusic.co.uk OXSHOTT, LEATHERHEAD AND DORKING AREAS T: 01932 223 309 E: leatherhead.dorking@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 020 8432LEATHERHEAD 0811 OXSHOTT, AND DORKING AREAS
OXSHOTT, LEATHERHEAD AND DORKING AREAS SOUTH CROYDON AND CATERHAM AREAS southcroydon.caterham@monkeymusic.co.uk E:E:leatherhead@monkeymusic.co.uk 0203 251 1061 T:T:020 8432 0811
NE BS DUE LAM
Plenty of indoor play & activities
BANSTEAD, CLAYGATE AND ESHERS AREAS E: banstead.claygate@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01932 223CLAYGATE 309 BANSTEAD, AND ESHERS AREAS
SOUTH CROYDON ANDAND CATERHAM AREAS E: leatherhead.dorking@monkeymusic.co.uk BANSTEAD, CLAYGATE ESHERS AREAS E: southcroydon.caterham@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 020 8432 0811 E: banstead.claygate@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 251 SOUTH T: 0203 01932CROYDON 2231061 309 AND CATERHAM AREAS E: southcroydon.caterham@monkeymusic.co.uk OXSHOTT, LEATHERHEAD AND DORKING AREAS BANSTEAD, CLAYGATE AND ESHERS AREAS T: 0203 251 1061 E: leatherhead.dorking@monkeymusic.co.uk BANSTEAD, CLAYGATE AND ESHERS AREAS E: banstead.claygate@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 020 8432 0811 T:banstead.claygate@monkeymusic.co.uk 01932 223 309 E:SOUTH CROYDON AND CATERHAM AREAS OXSHOTT, LEATHERHEAD AND DORKING AREAS southcroydon.caterham@monkeymusic.co.uk T:E:E:01932 223 309 leatherhead.dorking@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 0203 251 1061 T: 020 8432 0811
US GORWGBEOORN
PLUS PLUS: Animal handling, goat milking, tractor rides, pig racing and pony rides daily!
D AR AW WI NN ING !
www.bockettsfarm.co.uk #
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OFFER
£2 OFF full price farm entry per person*
Valid weekends from 7th Jan - 5th Feb 2017. Only with this voucher (*max 5 people). Off Peak Winter Weekday rates of £6.50 per person apply Mon - Fri until 10th Feb 2017.
FM
The Lotus Practice Now offering ü Cranio-sacral therapy ü Baby Massage Courses
www.familiesonline.co.uk Inspirational ideas for fun days out near you
ü Baby Yoga Courses ü Osteopathy Baby massage and yoga is relaxing and enjoyable for both mum and babies, supporting bonding between you and your baby with quality time that’s fun.
) 07956442223 : thelotus@hotmail.co.uk 8 www.thelotuspractice.com
The MultiSports Group Change your game
MultiSports
Amersham&Chorleywood Sutton & Cheam Weekend sports for boys and girls aged 4 - 16 of all abilities
Tel: 0844 012933350450 774051 www.multisports.co.uk ENROLLING NOW FORFOR OUR OUR AUTUMN TERM WORKSHOP ENROLLING NOW SUMMER WORKSHOP IN JULY AND AUTUMN TERM IN SEPTEMBER
Extensive variety of sports – Professional coaches – Ofsted registered - Childcare vouchers
London Surrey Borders 13
Winter Party Themes and Ideas Dramabuds Parties Transport your child’s party to the land of make believe and captivate imaginations. With over 14 themes to choose from there is sure to be a drama. Dramabuds party that your child will love! Each party includes lively songs, drama, dancing, games, parachute fun and bubbles! We’ll ensure your child’s party is a truly magical experience that
you’ll cherish forever.2- 8 year olds. For more information call 020 8669 2355, or visit www.dramabuds.co.uk MAD Academy MAD Academy birthday parties are all about singing and dancing – and that’s what they do best! ‘’We love nothing more than bringing our MAD enthusiasm, energy and expertise to your child’s party to ensure it’s one everyone will remember’’ MAD Parties cater for all children, from babies of 3 months, toddlers, and young children. Let MAD Academy make your birthday party sparkle! For more information email Alison on alison. storey@madacademy.com Jigsaw Parties - With One Party Over, Another One Begins… With New Year’s Eve now a distant memory, children across London and the Home Counties have started getting ready for a year jam-packed with birthday parties.
Imaginative Drama Classes
Growing Buds 2 - 4 years Full Blooms 4 - 7 years Budding Actors 7 - 10 years Classes in Carshalton, Cheam, dramabuds Croydon & Worcester Park adventure 020 8669 2355 parties too
www.dramabuds.co.uk
From superheroes to pass the parcel to movie stars, there is an endless array of games and themes to be explored; so much so it can be difficult to know where to begin! One thing is for certain: from musical theatre to contemporary drama and dance, the performing arts are a hugely enjoyable way for children and young adults to build confidence and social skills whilst having enormous amounts of fun. Alongside weekend performing arts schools Jigsaw offers drama, singing and dance themed parties for children aged 3 upwards in London, Surrey and across the South East. Visit www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk for more information, or call 0208 4474530 and
14 January/ February 2017
book your child’s party today! Croydon High Sports Club Sports, swimming, tennis or dance parties; bouncy castle hire or just venue hire. Secure building with plenty of free parking. 6-12 years. For more information call 020 8657 9313, or visit www.croydonsportsclub. co.uk The Good Ship Lollypop A funky soft play centre, with a truly amazing range of party packages that promise the perfect birthday celebration. NEW for 2017, every Space Warriors dream - The BEGEARA BLACK PAW Laser Tag has arrived at The Good Ship Lollypop Soft Play Centre. For more information call O7703 566411 or email, rosie@ thegoodshiplollypop.co.uk Monkey Music Every little monkey loves to party. Monkey Music parties bring together singing, dancing and playing musical party games into a great party, that is individually tailored to your little one. You Monkey Music host will ensure that all your party guest, and the birthday boy/girl will have a special day to remember. To find your nearest Monkey Music party visit www.monkeymusic. co.uk Perform Perform Parties are high energy, fun and totally infectious. Based around a colourful theme and involving lots of lively games, we use the power of children’s imaginations to transport them to a different world. We take children on an exciting adventure getting everybody involved. 4 – 7 year olds and 7 – 12 year olds. To find your nearest Perform party venue visit www.perform.org.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk
Rugby Tots A Rugbytots Party is a fantastically fun-filled way to celebrate your child’s birthday or any other special event. Distinctive and dynamic, our parties follow a slightly different format to our standard Rugbytots classes, with a greater emphasis on play, plus plenty of party games and group participation. Forget the same old boring party routine, with engaging and enthusiastic coaches in charge, a Rugbytots Party will have all the kids, boys and girls, getting involved and being entertained throughout the whole party. For more informationabout our parties visit www. rugbytots.co.uk/home/parties Tumble Tots Epsom We offer 2 hour birthday parties, with plenty of time on Tumble Tots’ specially designed equipment, along with your child’s favourite party songs and games for up to 24 children. Contact us for further details and to book a date, walking to 5 years. For more information call 07930 550 023, or visit www.tumbletots.com/epsom Jo Jingles Jo Jingles Parties are celebrations with a difference. The birthday child and their guests are all invited to play percussion instruments, sing songs and move around to music and to get involved in party games appropriate to their age. For parties in Cobham, Epsom & Fetcham and Leatherhead please call Viv Hunt -07751 438943 or Sue Senior for parties in Banstead and Sutton on 020 8644 4897. www.jojingles.com Glazed all Over Here at Glazed All Over we have so
many wonderful parties it’s hard for us to pinpoint just one party. For us the most satisfying part of the children’s experience is seeing how engaged they become with their masterpieces, even the most reluctant or shy children are inspired. They love being able to choose from a range of items, and then using their imaginations and our extensive range of colours create something to be proud of. As well as making something personal for themselves, they all help to create a special memory plate for the birthday girl or boy. For more information call 02086476463 or visit www. glazedallover.co.uk Stagecoach Themed Birthday Parties Let your child enjoy the wonderful world of make-believe as Stage Coach
takes them on a roller-coaster ride through his/her imagination. Stagecoach Party Themes • Knights & Princesses • Pirates & Mermaids • Fairies • Superheroes • Witches & Wizards • Jungle Animals • Pop Stars • Musicals Parties can be hosted from the regular Stagecoach schools or at a venue of your choice. Invitations are Included and guests will also receive prizes, stickers and a balloon. Party bags can be provided. All you need to do is provide food, drink…and don’t forget your camera! Visit www.stagecoach.co.uk to find your nearest Stagecoach Party provider.
London Surrey Borders 15
What’s On JANUARY Every Sat & Sun in Jan LEGO Brick Frog & Fly WWT London, Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes, London, SW13 9WT 020 8409 4400 Whilte theGIANT LEGO® brick animal trail is on at London Wetland Centre, why not join in on one of the drop-in sessions to make your own frog & fly to take home? Every Sat & Sun from Sat 7 Jan - Sun 5 Feb Weekend Family Activities WWT London, SW13 9WT 020 8409 4400 Join us by the fire for some stories about nature. Hear tales of wetland creatures and their amazing adventures. Then make a bird feeder from natural recycled materials or join our learning team in our Wetland Encounters and see some of the amazing plants and animals that live here. Sat 18 28 Jan and Sat 11 & 25 Feb 1.00pm – 2.30 pm Bourne Hall Museum Club Bourne Hall Museum, KT17 1 1UF 020 8394 1734 This successful children’s club which meets on the second Saturday of each month. Perfect for budding historians 8 – 12. £5 Every Mon Term time only 10am – 11.15am & 1pm-2.15pm Little Explorers Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD 0344 800 1895/ 0208 545 6850 Help your under 5s discover the world around them and learn about mini beasts, the weather or get green fingered. 18 months - 5years. £2. Book in advance. Every Sat, 9am – 1pm Horniman Farmers’ Market Horniman Museum and Gardens, SE23 3PQ 020 8699 1872 Our weekly Farmers’ Market sells seasonal fruit and veg, artisan bread, organic meat, hot food and more from independent and local producers. Free
Before setting out please check details with the venue in case they have changed since we have gone to print ...and don’t forget to tell them you saw them in Families London-Surrey Borders!
masks to sharks jaws in our Hands On Base. Free, ticketed
houses and tower blocks. Free. Drop in. Suitable for ages 5 – 11
Every Sat in Jan 1.30pm – 2.15pm, 2.45pm – 3.30pm Art Makers Horniman Museum and Gardens, SE23 3PQ 020 8699 1872 Have fun with art skills and exciting techniques to create something fabulous to take home inspired by the Horniman’s collections or seasonal celebrations.
Sun 29 Jan 2pm - 5pm Chinese New Year Honeywood Museum, SM5 3MX An afternoon of traditional crafts and tales.
Tue 13 Jan 10am – 11.30am & 1.30pm - 3pm Snow by Uri Shulevitz Gatton Park, RH2 0TD 01737 649 068 Enjoy the story of ‘Snow’ and go for a walk around the park to bring the story to life. Return to create artwork linked to the story. £5.50 Book in advance www.gattonpark.com Sat 14 Jan 10am-12pm Mum2Mum Market Sutton Thomas Wall Centre, SM1 4DP Sat 14 Jan 9am-1pm Wallington Farmers Market Old Town Hall and Library Gardens in Woodcote Road Fri 20 Jan 10am – 11.30am & 1.30pm - 3pm Sharing a Shell by Julia Donaldson Gatton Park, RH2 0TD 01737 649 068 Enjoy the story of ‘Sharing a Shell’ and go for a walk around the park to bring the story to life. Return to create artwork linked to the story. £5.50 Book in advance Sat 21 Jan 10am-12pm Mum2Mum Market Croydon Addiscombe Catholic Church, CR0 7EN
FEBRUARY Wed 1 Feb 2pm–3.30pm Winkworth’s Wednesday Walk Winkworth Arboretum, GU8 4AD 01483 208936 Meet at the kiosk for a seasonal guided walk around the Arboretum. Guided walk is free Fri 3 Feb 10am – 11.30am & 1.30pm – 3.30pm The Smartest Giant in Town by Julia Donaldson Gatton Park, RH2 0TD 01737 649 068 Enjoy the story of ‘The Smartest Giant in Town’ and go for a walk around the park to bring the story to life. Return to create artwork linked to the story. £5.50 Book in advance Sat 4 Feb 3pm - 5pm Mum2Mum Market Ashtead Ashtead Peace Memorial Hall, KT21 2BE Sat 11 Feb 2pm - 4pm Mum2Mum Market Epsom Ruxley Church Hall, KT19 0JG Sat 18 Feb 10am - 12pm Mum2Mum Market Croydon Addiscombe Catholic Church, CR0 7EN
Fri 27 Jan 10am – 11.30am & 1.30pm – 3pm Jack Frost by Kazuno Hohara Gatton Park, RH2 0TD 01737 649 068 Enjoy the story of ‘Jack Frost’ and go for a walk around the park to bring the story to life. Return to create artwork linked to the story. £5.50 Book in advance
Every Tues and Wed in Jan Various times Busy Bees Horniman Museum and Gardens, SE23 3PQ 020 8699 1872 Join lively sessions for Under 5s, including storytelling, art and craft and outdoor play.
Fri 27 Jan 11am–12.30pm Exploring the Arboretum Winkworth Arboretum, GU8 4AD 01483 208936 Meet at the kiosk for a guided walk around the Arboretum. Well-behaved dogs on a short lead are welcome.Free
Every Sat & Sun in Jan (Sat )11am – 11.30am, 11.45am – 12.15pm, 12.30pm - 1pm (Sun) 11am - 12.30pm Hands On Base Horniman Museum and Gardens, SE23 3PQ 020 8699 1872 Explore and touch things from African
Sat 28 Jan 10.30am – 12pm and 1pm – 2.30pm Living in the Map Harry M Weinrebe Learning Centre at The British Library, NW1 2DB Create a giant 3D map through sculpture and drawing with artists Judith Brocklehurst and Emma McGarry. Families will have the chance to transform the Learning Centre into a city of roads,
Tues 21 Feb, 11am – 12.30pm Tuesday Tree Walk Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG 01372 467806 Leaf behind your cares and join our friendly guide Hilary on a seasonal guided walk of the garden. NAA Guided walk is free Fri 24 Feb 10am – 11.30am & 1.30pm – 3.30pm Owl Babies by Martin Waddell Gatton Park, RH2 0TD 01737 649 068 Enjoy the story of ‘Owl Babies’ and go for a walk around the park to bring the story to life. Return to create artwork linked to the story. £ £5.50 Book in advance Fri 24 Feb, 11am–12.30pm Exploring the Arboretum Winkworth Arboretum Hascombe Road, GU8 4AD Meet at the kiosk for a guided walk around the Arboretum. Well-behaved dogs on a short lead are welcome.Free Sat 14 Jan Sat 25 Feb 10-12pm Mum2Mum Market Sutton Thomas Wall Centre, SM1 4DP Sat 18 & Sun 19 Feb 10am – 5pm Sutton Farmers Market Sutton High Street Sat 25 Feb 12pm – 4pm Family Day: Festival of Maps Various locations at The British Library, NW1 2DB Drawing the Line Families will have the chance to make, look, touch, sign and explore, with a full programme of drop in activities from storytelling and interactive trails, to musical performances, art making workshops and taster sessions in British Sign Language (BSL). Sat 25 Feb 10am – 12pm Bump2Babies Nearly New Sale United Reformed Church ,CR3 6SX
Sat 21 & Sun 22 Jan 10am – 5pm Sutton Farmers Market Sutton High Street
Every Sun in Jan 2pm - 2.45pm & 3.15pm - 4pm A World of Stories Horniman Museum and Gardens, SE23 3PQ 020 8699 1872 Our popular storytellers bring the collections and Gardens alive with stories from around the world.
16 January/ February 2017
Events for all the Family
February Half Term Feb 11 – 19 Living with Birds at Hever Castle Enjoy some family fun with Hever Castle this Half Term. Hever Castle & Gardens is teaming up with the RSPB to celebrate British garden birds during the February half term holiday. Coinciding with National Nest Box Week, visitors can learn how to help birds nest, survive and thrive in their gardens at home. A bird box building workshop will provide kids with the chance to contribute to the conservation effort in the UK by putting a nest box in their gardens, also providing the pleasure of observing any breeding birds that you attract to the garden. Additional fee. For further information please visit the website: hevercastle.co.uk or call Hever Castle on 01732 865224.
Tues-Fri 3-4pm Glazed All Over Holiday Camp, SM6 9AY 02086476463 A range of fun workshops including clay and painting activities. Please see our website for further details. 6+ Spring lambing at Bocketts Farm There are up to 70 lambs due from Feb 10th - you may even see one being born! Birds of Prey will also be at the farm Monday-Friday, along with the Pony Parlour, which will be open for pony grooming sessions.There is a full programme of fun farm activities including pony rides, tractor rides, animal handling and pig racing. Wed 15 Feb - 11am & 2pm Half Term Fun with Denbies Wine Estate, RH5 6AA Hobgoblin’s Children’s Theatre at Denbies. Touring children’s theatre company returns to Denbies with child
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friendly performances. £7.50 per child Teddybears train ride and storytelling Tues 16 Feb -10am, 11am, 12pm & 2pm Bring your favourite Ted for a vineyard train ride and storytelling session. Includes a hot drink. Warm clothes recommended!
Wed 15 –Fri 17 Feb, 10.30am–4.30pm Wild Learning Winkworth Arboretum, GU8 4AD 01483 208936 Half-term adventure holiday club. Have fun and explore the woods with Wild Learning.
Fri 17 Feb -11am-3pm Henfold Birds of Prey Be amazed with incredible facts from the keeper and watch flying display at 12.30pm
Every Thurs during school holidays 10am – 1pm Crafty Thursdays Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD 0344 800 1895 Be inspired by the park and it’s wildlife and get creative with the whole family in different craft activities. £2. 3 – 8 yrs
Half term at Godstone Farm Godstone Farm, RH9 8LX 01883 742 546 Come on down to Godstone Farm for some half term action. There’ll be baby animals galore and lots more springtime fun! Sat 11 Feb - Sun 19 Feb London Puddle Jumping Championships WWT London, SW13 9WT 020 8409 4400 News splash!! Children of all ages can grab their wellies and have fun jumping in puddles in the fresh air.Bring your wellies and wet weather gear and come and have a splashing time! Sat 11 Feb–Sun 19 Feb, 10am–4pm Children’s half-term trail Winkworth Arboretum, GU8 4AD 01483 208936 Guaranteed fun, come rain or shine! Get some fresh air as you explore the Arboretum with our children’s trail during this half-term holiday. + 50p for trail Mon 13 Feb - 10.30am–4pm English Folk Dance and Song Society Cecil Sharp House, NW1 7AY Fun With Folk. A fun filled course of folk dance and music for 6-8-year-olds. £30/£20 concessions Tues 14 Feb -10.30am-4.30pm Get Your Folk On! Juniors An exciting introduction to folk music for 9-12-year-olds. £30/£20 concessions. To enrol, email education@efdss.org
January 19th - February 26th Explore the Silk Road
Chiswick House Gardens, London W4 2QN London’s annual Magical Lantern Festival is back, with an all-new show transforming historic Chiswick House Gardens into a fairy-tale world of light sculptures, Chinese arts, Virtual Reality, games & food with a funfair and 600 square metres ice rink. The festival theme for 2017 is the ancient Silk Route. The festival traditionally marks the end of Chinese New Year (Jan 28th 2017), with families and couples celebrating by carrying or making the delicate silk lanterns which symbolise new beginnings, letting go of old grudges and good fortune. Open Thursday to Sunday 5pm to 10pm, last entry 9pm (open every day during Feb half-term). For more information please visit www.magicallantern.uk
Every Wed during school holidays 10am – 1pm Wild Wednesdays Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD 0344 800 1895 Get the family together and go wild you get outdoors and closer to nature. £2 per children, 5 – 11 yrs. Sat 11–Sun 19 Feb, 10am–4pm Children’s Half-Term Trail Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG 01372 467806 Find out about Claremont’s lost princess and her romance with a German prince. plus 50p for trail Sat 14 Jan, 9am-1pm Wallington Farmers Market Old Town Hall and Library Gardens in Woodcote Road Mon 13–Fri 17 Feb, 10.30am–4.30pm Wild Learning Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG 01372 467806 Outdoor holiday club for children. Learn fun new things in the fresh air. For more details, costs and to book, visit www.wild-learning.net
London Wetland Centre
Tues 14 Feb, 11 – 1pm Honeywood Mini Explorers Valentine’s Day Honeywood Museum, SM5 3MX A look at the historical roots of Valentine’s Day and who Saint Valentine was Half Term Fun with Gatton Park RH2 0TD 01737 649 068 Fri 10 Feb -10am– 11.30am & 1.30pm – 3pm Betty and the Yeti by Ella Burfoot Enjoy the story of ‘Betty and the Yeti’ and go for a walk around the park to bring the story to life. Return to create artwork linked to the story. £5.50 Book in advance Wed 15 Feb -10 – 11.30am & 1.30pm – 3pm Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen Enjoy the story of ‘Going on a Bear Hunt’ and go for a walk around the park to bring the story to life. Return to create artwork linked to the story. £7.50 book in advance Fri 17 Feb -10am – 11.30am & 1.30pm – 3pm Tiddler by Julia Donaldson Enjoy the story of ‘Tiddler’ and go for a walk around the park to bring the story to life. Return to create artwork linked to the story. £7.50 Book in advance.
For a comprehensive guide to what’s on, don’t forget to visit us online! www.familiesonline.co.uk
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12/12/2016 14:24
What’s On
AS SEEN ON
DISCOVER RUGBYTOTS
Children’s Theatre Epsom Playhouse
KT18 5AL 01372 742 555 www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk Wed 18 – Sat 21 Jan Cinderella We have a fantastic cast, familiar music, gags galore and even a special celebrity guest making his first ever panto appearance! £12. Sun 28 Jan Close Up Magic (Myers Studio) An intimate evening of close up magic, trickery and sleight of hand. £16.50. Sun 29 Jan Cirque Enchanment Get ready to enter the Circus of your mind featuring and international cast of talented cirque performers, dancers and vocalists, beautiful costumes and a stunning soundtrack of popular music. £12. Sun 5 Feb Glee Club Challenge This Regional Final will decide four groups who will go on to compete at the Grand Final at The Indigo at The O2 Arena in front of our celebrity judges. The evening promises some brilliant vocals, choreography and excitement – plus much, much more! £9. Mon 13 Feb So you think you know about Dinosaurs? Come and test your knowledge against Ben Garrod (the TV scientist in “Attenborough’s Giant Dinosaur”). This is an interactive show where children will be given the chance to ask questions and show off their dinosaur knowledge to the audience. £12.50.
Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com Until 26 Feb How to Hide a Lion Based on Helen Stephens’ rip-roaring story about hiding a lion and finding a friend.When a lion is chased out of town, a young girl helps him find somewhere to hide. It’s not easy – lions are too big, too fluffy and too heavy! 3 - 6. Until 5 Feb Babe, the Sheep-Pig Join us for an enchanting winter warmer as we follow the incredible story of one piglet’s rise to become the world-famous sheep-pig. Based on the book by Dick King-Smith. Wed 23 – Sun 26 Feb The Giant Jam Sandwich What a to do! One hot summer day, when 4 million wasps invade the village of Itching Down, everything changes.
18 January/ February 2017
The picnickers panic and the farmer stops haymaking. The wasps are noisy, nasty and worst of all, they don’t mind who they sting! Luckily Bap the baker has an ingenious idea and the industrious citizens of Itching Down knead and bake the biggest wasp trap ever! 3 - 7.
MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN!
Our dynamic weekly play sessions enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment. For more details, just call or email:
0345 313 3242
enquiries@rugbytots.co.uk
rugbytots.co.uk
The world’s favourite rugby play programme
Theatre Close By Mon 30 Jan, Doors open at 10am Bach to Baby Croydon St. Mildred’s Bingham Road ,CR0 7EB It’s frosty out there! Cosy around the accordion for a hot cup of music blended from the very best of classical and folk traditions. Indulge in dashes of the Argentine sun that’s sure to chase away the winter chills. Sat 7 - Sat 14 Jan Sanderstead Dramatic Club presents Jack and the Beanstalk All Saints Church Hall Sanderstead, CR2 9AB, www.sdclub.org.uk/box-office A family favourite, this well loved tale promised huge amounts of laughter, singing and family fun. Fri 13 – 17 Jan ( Fri, Sat,Sun & Wed) Once Upon a Time Family Panto Barn Theatre, RH8 0AA 01883 724852 Join Oxted Players for a traditional family panto, featuring well-loved fairy-tale characters. £9-10 Sat 11 Feb Lily and the Little Snow Bear The Harlequin Theatre & Cinema RH1 1NN 01737276500 Join Lily on an adventure as she discovers a little lost snow bear at the end of her garden, and her quest to return him to his mum. 3yrs+.£10.50 / family £38.
Theatre Further Away Richmond Theatre Little Green, Richmond TW9 1QJ Sat 18 Feb Mr Bloom’s Nursery - Live! 11am & 2pm Bring your ‘tiddlers’ along and join Mr Bloom and the Veggies on their first ever live tour. Using song, play and interaction Mr Bloom’s Nursery is a fun and inspiring show with strong educational values which will entertain parents and tiddlers alike! Discover Children’s Story Centre 383-387 High Street, E15 4QZ Thur 19 Jan- Sun 26 Feb Dr. Seuss for Toddlers: Scrambled Eggs Super! Mon-Thurs 11am & 1pm. Fri-Sun 11am, 1pm & 3pm. Join Discover Children’s Story Centre’s Story Builders on an adventure to find the rarest and most exciting eggs to make an amazing breakfast.
www.familiesonline.co.uk
Registered charity numbers 1153487 (England and Wales) SC046840 (Scotland)
Winter Warmers For All The Family Roasted Vegetable Pasta Bake
Siobhan Berry of Mummy Cooks (mummycooks.ie) shares her tried and tested favourite that grown-ups will enjoy as much as kids. Siobhan says: “Pesto is always a great hit in our house and this recipe allows for more vegetables to be added. I find that kids are more likely to try new vegetables with their favorite sauce on top. Roasting vegetables also makes them a little sweeter, so they are certain to enjoy this dish.”
Serves 8 2 large red onions 1 large aubergine 2 large courgettes 2 red and orange pepper, deseeded and sliced 4 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp pesto 250ml crème fraiche Freshly ground black pepper 500g pasta, cooked (I use wholegrain pasta) 150g cheddar cheese, grated
1.
Chop all the vegetables and preheat the oven to 190C/375F/Gas 5.
2.
On a roasting dish, toss the vegetables in a drizzle of olive oil and roast in the oven for 40 minutes, until cooked and golden at the edges.
3.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to the boil. Add the pasta and cook for about 6 minutes. Since you will be cooking the pasta for a second time in the oven, you want to make sure the inside is still hard.
4.
Put the pesto and crème fraiche into a saucepan, season with ground black pepper, then heat gently for 2 minutes, stirring.
5.
Mix the pasta and vegetables into the sauce. At this stage, I divide the mixture in two using one portion straight away and the second I freeze. Spoon the mixture into ovenproof dish, sprinkle with cheese.
Serve straight away: Cook in the oven for 15 minutes at 190c and place in the centre of your table and allow your children to serve themselves, encouraging them to taste any new vegetables. Suitability For babies six to nine months, not suitable due to large chunks. Nine months on as finger food - allow your baby to pick up the vegetables and pasta. Always supervise babies when eating. As mum of two young girls Ashleigh (6) and Jessica (4), Siobhan Berry at Mummycooks is passionate about nutritious, home-cooked food. She wants to inspire, educate and empower parents to feed their children healthy, homecooked food. Siobhan believes that cooking is a fun activity that brings families together. www.MummyCooks.ie
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Mock Tests 11+11+Mock Tests
WALLINGTON SUTTONSchools Stage 1 style - Mock 11+ Stage 2 Sutton Orpington/Kent CEM Selective Eligibility Test Selective Eligibility Test Tests& Stage Selective Eligibility Grammar Schools (SET) & Stage 2 Test Mock Bexley Tests (SET) 2 Dates: 30/3/15Fri – Mon. pm Dates: 20/2/15 Half Term
31/3/15Wed – Tue. Sch. hols Dates: 18/2/15 Dates: Half Term Dates: Mon 17th Wed Feb (Half-term) 26/5/15 - Tue. Half term 01/4/15 Easter Hols Mon 3rd Apr (Easter) 04/7/15 – SatHalf . amTerm 27/5/15 Wed
Where: Hurst Community
Where: Crofton Halls, Sutton Orpington SM3 or Where: Road, Crofton SM6 Where: Sutton Life Centre, 24 BR6 8PRWallington Alcorn Close, Sutton SM3 9PX See the website for full Time: 9.30am - 1pm address.
Dates: Sat 28 Jan Saturday (Weekend) 11/4/15 – Sat. am 28/3/15 Fri 17th FebFri (Half-term) 29/5/15 Half Term 30/5/15 – Sat. am
Where: Wallington Centre, Hurst Place,SM6 Hurst Rd, Where: The Centre, Milton Rd, Bexley DA5 3LH Wallington SM6 for 9RP See the website full address. Time: 1.30pm – 3.45pm
Fee: £22.50 per paper including detailed Fee: From £25 paper including detailed feedback & Fee: From £45 forper 2 papers and feedbackFREE and online software to practise. practice software.* access to all questions.
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BE GOOD AT BEING YOURSELF
Families what’s on
Unlock your child’s potential with Stagecoach Performing Arts Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year olds, where students learn to embrace life with creativity and courage
Find out more today: CHEAM 020 8773 4242
COULSDON 0345 078 0805
CROYDON 0845 265 7083
EPSOM 01372 730363
MERTON PARK 020 8942 3502
MITCHAM 020 8942 3502
SHIRLEY 020 8949 1116
SUTTON 01372 740284
stagecoach.co.uk/croydon
stagecoach.co.uk/mertonpark
stagecoach.co.uk/shirley
stagecoach.co.uk/coulsdon
stagecoach.co.uk/epsom
stagecoach.co.uk/mitcham
stagecoach.co.uk/sutton
WORCESTER PARK 020 8773 4242
stagecoach.co.uk/worcesterpark
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20 January/ February 2017
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Stagecoach Performing Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals.
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