Issue 115: July/August 2017 www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk FREE

North West London Including North , South Hertfordshire, North , Brent, Harrow and South Barnet (Queens , Wembley, , , Northolt, Northwood, Watford and all the areas in between) What to do with the kids this summer!

PLUS What’s On, Days Out and much more inside! WATFORD BUSHEY RICKMANSWORTH M1 STANMORE M25 NORTHWOOD EDGWARE KINGSBURY HARROW WEST HENDON WEMBLEY DOLLIS HILL SUDBURY PARK NORTHOLT BRONDESBURY PARK WEMBLEY A40 QUEENS PARK WILLESDEN KILBURN

Welcome to the IN THIS ISSUE:

July/August issue! 3 Families News 8 Summer Camps

14 Days Out, Camping CONTACT US: www.facebook.com/ and Festivals FamiliesNWLondon Families North West 16 Childrens Theatre London Magazine @FamiliesNW 18 What’s On Circulation 30,000+ copies every issue. 22 Clubs and Classes Editors: Published seven times a year. For families Heather Waddington from birth to twelve. and Janine Mergler P.O. Box 2378, Watford WD18 1RF UPCOMING ISSUES: T: 01923 237 004 September 2017 Clubs and Classes/Back to School Cover image: E: [email protected] Deadline: 15 August 2017 depositphotos.com Send in your news, stories and advertising www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk bookings to the details left.

Feature images used under license from depositphotos.com. Other images have been supplied by Where is Families North West London? independent sources.

Families North West London Magazine is distributed bi-monthly throughout north west London. An area bordered by the A40 to the south, by the A5/M1 to the east and out towards the M25 in the north and west. You can collect a copy FREE from scores of outlets: schools, nurseries, play groups, clubs and classes, sports centres, children’s libraries, family doctors and baby clinics, theatres, your local council offices and children’s shops. If you would like to stock copies to give to parents, please let us know. Distributed to over 30,000 families!

2 North West London JULY/AUGUST 2017 NEWS

Buck Prep is ‘Excellent’ in Enter to WIN!… every way! Buckingham Prep’s reputation We’re Gonna Catch as a caring and dedicated school that achieves a BIG one! places and scholarships in academically selective and To celebrate We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’s return to completive senior schools has Cadogan Hall, Families NW London Magazine has just been entirely endorsed one family ticket (admits 4) to give away. by the Independent Schools There are a number of bear paw prints hidden throughout this Inspectorate report that has magazine. To WIN! Find them all and email your answer together just this week been published. with your name and the subject heading BEAR HUNT FAMILIES NW The report found the school to be “excellent” in every aspect of what LONDON COMPETITION to [email protected] before midnight 31 they do. A copy of the full report can be found on their website. July 2017. This inspection and report has coincided with the changes they are in T&C’s - Prize is for one family ticket the progress of making in terms of aligning their nursery to the main (admits 4, min 1 adult) to see the school. They have employed a full-time teacher to teach exclusively London production of We’re Going in nursery to ensure that the nursery children will have the necessary on a Bear Hunt at Cadogan Hall attitude to learning that the school requires. They will also be running from 4 Aug - 3 Sept. The winner will the nursery on the same school term timetable, with play and activity be selected by random prize draw clubs being run during the holidays, to ready the children for the of entries with the correct answer. Tickets are subject to availability, non- future. transferable and hold no cash value. Buckingham Prep selects its pupils on their attitude to learning and Answers will not be accepted after the their desire to achieve and not on their current academic abilities. If closing date of midnight 31 July 2017 you would like to find out more, please contact the school directly. and all decisions will be final. www.buckprep.org Mark your diaries Cineworld to open its doors on Friday 7th July with £2 tickets The new cinema will feature eleven state-of-the-art screens showing the latest Hollywood and Bollywood releases, as well as a Baskin Robbins ice cream counter. The 1,745 seat cinema will boast 11 auditoria with cutting-edge screens, Family Fun Day in delivering crystal-clear images and a powerful digital sound system; September! perfect to watch latest blockbuster Watford Colosseum is throwing open its doors and inviting you to release, Spider-Man: Homecoming explore behind the scenes of your local entertainment venue. With which will be screened during the backstage tours; sound, lighting & pyrotechnic displays; children’s arts & opening weekend. crafts activities, including biscuit decorating; competitions and a whole Cinema fans can take advantage host of other activities taking place throughout the afternoon, there’s of a range of offers at Cineworld guaranteed to be something for everyone. South Ruislip including weekly Food will be available, along with children’s lunch packs, sweet treats discounted Movies for Juniors and drinks. With the chance to meet the team who run Watford screenings for just £2 on selected weekend mornings and school Colosseum, view the venue set up for hospitality events and even holidays, as well as Student NUS discount. They are also offering explore the kitchen, this really is a unique day out! discounted tickets for Cineworld Unlimited Card holders as well as 10% off cinema snacks and drinks; local offers at restaurants and The Family Fun Day is free, but pre-booking is advisable. shops such as Frankie and Benny’s, Chiquito and Pizza Hut, as well Sunday 17 September 12-4pm as exclusive advance screenings to upcoming movies. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 01923 571102 Find out more: www.cineworld.com

North West London JULY/AUGUST 2017 3 NEWS

Explore Learning arrives in Watford and local 8-year-old wins Writing Competition! It’s been a busy term for Explore Learning, the popular provider trip to Disneyland Paris and of maths and English tuition for children aged 4 to 14. They have £500 worth of books for opened a new centre in Watford and had a local 8-year-old named their school. The national as the regional winner of a writing competition.The new centre, winner will be surprised in located inside intu Watford, is the company’s 127th a school assembly by TV centre to open in the UK. In other Explore presenter and adventurer, Learning news, an 8-year-old from Wembley Steve Backshall who will has been named a regional winner in announce the National Young Writer of the Year. Every child that the National Young Writers’ Award a entered will receive a certificate to celebrate their story, along with competition organised by the tuition personalised feedback from Explore Learning. provider, and now in its ninth year. All parents are eligible for a FREE trial session where Jasmin Vimalathas from Roe Green parents and children can come in, meet the tutors and Strathcona fought off tough competition receive an assessment to find out how Explore can help. from children all over the region with Find out more about the new Watford centre: www. her story, ‘The Amazing Day’. Over 10,000 explorelearning.co.uk/tuition-centre/watford/ or call children from all over the UK entered to win a 01923 723953.

Volunteering: Why bother and what’s in it for me? The days of volunteers being seen as little old ladies in twin sets and pearls has been long consigned to the bin! Today, volunteers at The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital come from all walks of life with ages ranging from 18-80 years old. Volunteering is flexible: from a couple of hours over lunchtime; one day a week to weekends or evenings. The reasons for volunteering are as varied as the roles and individuals themselves. People come to make new friends; to learn new skills; they arrive with partners or family members or they come in groups. Here at the RNOH, we appreciate that taking a career break to raise a family can dent your confidence. Volunteering not only helps restore or grow your self-confidence but it can help you develop new skills that help you back into the workplace. Instead of meeting friends for lunch, why not come along and help someone have their lunch? For a chat about volunteering call Lisa or Diane on: 020 8909 5394 [email protected] or visit the RNOH website

Families North West London is designed by Bibbysalt and printed by Warners. Copyright Families North West Magazine 2017. Families North West 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, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families North West London are 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 nor for any consequence.

4 North West London JULY/AUGUST 2017 NEWS

NEW The Welsh Harp Tate Kids Environmental Education Website Centre The Welsh Harp Launches Environmental Education Centre is a flagship environmental Tate recently unveiled its new dedicated website for children educational centre run aged 5 to 13. The site has been designed in consultation with local by Thames21, London’s kids and includes 14 games, such as Art Parts, where you can use leading waterways your imagination to fill in missing parts of famous works of art. charity, catering for There are 10 new quizzes to help you find out which art superhero schools throughout you would be or which artist would design your bedroom. Other Brent, Barnet and Harrow activities show you how to cut and paste your own Matisse, and is a very valued asset carve your own Hepworth, or create your own performance art. in the local community. You can also share your creations by uploading them to the Tate Kids gallery. Tate Kids also helps children to enjoy learning about The site, which contains art, with fun adventures through works in Tate’s collection and a meadow, woodland, fascinating facts about movements like surrealism and artists like a stream, ponds and Andy Warhol and Yayoi Kusama. The website even has its own its own resident heron young art critics, with video reviews of Tate’s exhibitions and is a crucial asset to interviews with artists. north-west Londoners, Find out more: www.tate.org.uk/kids as it offers the chance for fresh air, exercise and an opportunity to connect to nature on your doorstep. Leading environmental charity Arty fun in Thames21 took lease of the centre from Brent Council in 2016. The charity runs daily outdoor learning sessions for schools and home educated groups and provide great value holiday activities and the Sun! community volunteering opportunities there too. Sonya Thiru from Mini Artists has listed The site is also open for venue hire and children’s parties. below 4 art inspiring ideas to get your Find out more by contacting [email protected] or kids creative juices flowing this summer! ring 07734 871728. 1. Watch the sunset together, and have colouring pencils, paints, or watercolours ready at hand to create your own sunset masterpieces! 2. Paint or draw portraits of each other. The best part is when you switch pictures and see each other’s reactions! 3. Shadow drawings using toys. Kids love doing shadow drawings! All you need is plain paper, pencils, and the shadow of what you wish to trace! Be creative as creative as possible! E.g. dinosaur and animal toy figures. 4. Do some texture rubbings on leaves, grass, flowers…anything you can find in the garden or park! Follow and LIKE for more art inspiration at facebook.com/rainbowclub. co.ukSummers MiniArtists Workshop sessions on July 17th, 18th, and 21st from 9.30am - 1pm. Northwood. [email protected] /07850045471 to book.

Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2), and Watford call: 0208 123 9346 email: [email protected] Harrow (HA3), North Wembley and Bushey call: 0208 422 0676 email: [email protected]

North West London JULY/AUGUST 2017 5 Education Seize the summer! At Explore Learning they are encouraging families to seize the summer! To help you do this they have put together a jam-packed summer programme with creative ideas on how to keep your child’s brain active over the holidays, so they are ready to settle back into the new school year confidently!

Start a blog Send a postcard Play some games Learn some new skills, as a family, by Let your friends and family know what you’ve There are bound to be some rainy days this creating a blog together. Give your child a been up to with a postcard. They’re only summer, so use this as a chance to get out little note book to jots ideas down whilst short so are a wonderful way to get a bit some board games. These are great for so you are out and about, then write up what of writing going during the holidays. If your many reasons, from developing language you’ve done. Take lots of pictures as these child is reluctant to write, then why not try to improving memory skills. Needs some are a great tool to help children who find a postcard app like By Post? They can take new games? Have a scavenger hunt in local writing tricky. Encourage them to describe their own pictures to make into postcards charity shops to see who in the family can what is happening in the picture to get their and type their message. find the best game. creativity flowing. Read, read and read some more Tuition Have a movie night A study by OUP showed that just 10mins of To keep your children progressing over the Research carried out by Explore Learning shared reading a day can have a huge impact summer, a tuition centre is a great option. highlighted watching TV/films is the number on children’s progress. Pop a book in your Prevent the battle ground of getting children one thing children wanted to do over the bag so you can use any opportunity to get to do work at home and get them along to a summer. Use this to motivate your child to your daily 10 mins in. We will be uploading centre where there are lots of other children read. Find a book that has been made into a weekly activities that you can complete with getting involved. Explore Learning runs maths film that your child wants to watch. Then plan your child to help keep them engaged with and English sessions as well as a whole range a movie night far enough in advance so you what they are reading. Visit explorelearning. of interactive workshops throughout the can read the book together before enjoying co.uk/summer to find out more and download holidays to keep your child’s brain active. The the film. your first activity! best things is you can go along and try one of these for free, so get in touch today!

6 North West London JULY/AUGUST 2017 Education

Call us to arrange an individual appointment

St Nicholas Preparatory School and Nursery – founded 1937 NW London (Kingsbury/Wembley)

An independent Day School and Nursery for age 3 months to 11 years www.stnicholasschool.org.uk Individual School tours arranged by Appointment: Please telephone 020 8205 7153

• Newly refurbished • Small classes and bright, airy classrooms • Great results in 11+ examinations • A caring, nurturing environment with a family atmosphere • After-school care and clubs • Interactive whiteboards in every classroom

We provide private education at a competitive price

Open Mornings: 26 June, 14 July, 12 August, and 22nd September

Address: 22 Salmon Street, Kingsbury, NW9 8PN E: [email protected] Tel: 020 8205 7153

North West London JULY/AUGUST 2017 7 Summer Guide 2017

Welcome TO our summer 2017 guide What to Do With the Kids This Summer!

The weeks ahead hold the promise of fun, new experiences, catching up with old friends and meeting new ones. Whether it is a nice dry, airconditioned theatre that appeals, a splash park, festival, arts and crafts or day and residential camps that meet your needs, you will find some of the best that our region (and beyond!) has to offer in the following pages and even more online! … and remember to share your experience with the Families community by rating and commenting on our events and listings on our website www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk

8 North West London JULY/AUGUST 2017 Summer Guide 2017

Xplore Activity Camps – Summer Activity new friends, try new activities and most of all RESIDENTIAL CAMPS Residential and day Camps! Offers the choice of have FUN!!! With over 80+ activities including: going to camp for a day, week or even for your motorsports, archery, fencing, clay model making, AIGAS - various dates. Wildlife Holidays & whole summer holiday! There is always a mix of dance and drama there is plenty of activities to Courses in the Highlands. Offering fully inclusive, activities so whether you are super outdoorsy or keep children entertained. Summer Camp Mon small-group learning holidays and study courses prefer to be more creative there will be something 24th July until Fri 18th Aug. 0845 123 5299 info@ exploring the stunning wildlife, habitats and for you. Xplore is Ofsted registered, accepts barracudas.co.uk landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and Islands. childcare vouchers and have centres all over the www.barracudas.co.uk 01463 782 443 UK 01449 742700 www.aigas.co.uk www.xploreactivitycamps.com Blag Youth Theatre Performing Arts Summer School, open to all kids from 7-17 years. This ATE Superweeks are 7 day residential holidays XUK Activity Summer Camp – 9th July – 19th year’s project will be Robin of Croxley...Man in running over the summer, from Fri 28th July August. XUK is a multi-activity summer camp Tights!!! from 24th July- 5th August. Rehearsals – Mon 28th Aug. The Council makes sure that based in the beautiful location of the Norfolk from 10am-6pm daily. 01923 772 320 keeping children safe, both physically and countryside, just 1.5 miles hours north of London. www.blagtheatre.co.uk emotionally, is ATE’s top priority. Ages 8-16 yrs. Activities include adventure (rock climbing/rifle 0845 456 1205 www.ate.org.uk shooting/quad bikes/high rope courses/water Capoeira Academy UK Classes in Stanmore zorbing) sports, water sports, drama, dance, arts providing outstanding and fun classes for children Camp Evolution – Summer Residential Camp in and crafts, cookery and much more! Children join aged 4+years. A unique blend of martial arts, Cheshire from 31st July – 6th August for 9-14 year them for anywhere between 1 and 6 weeks. They dance, acrobatics and music; capoeira develops olds. Camp Evolution UK offers a fabulous range welcome 6-17 year olds. 020 8371 9686 enquiry@ skills for life with inspiring and nurturing teachers. of fun and educational activities, all focused on xkeys.co.uk 07841342874 [email protected] personal development & boosting prospects, right www.xkeys.co.uk/residential-camp/ www.capoeiracademyuk.com in the heart of rural Cheshire. www.campevolution. co.uk [email protected] 0161 706 Cooking Camp Creativz Kids cooking camp and 0144 DAY CAMPS workshops in school holidays. Fun and creative introduction to cooking, baking and chocolate Camp Wild 24th July – 11th August in glorious Aqua Vie – 5 days consecutive swimming lessons making. Based in North West London, camp days East Devon. They will be running residential in Bushey. 01923 245773 run from 10am to 3pm. 02089586628 tracey@ camps for 7-12 yr olds and day camps for 6-12 yr www.aqua-vie.com messyplay.co.uk or facebook Cooking Camp olds (recommended day camp length of 1-3 days, Art and Craft Summer Camp with My Sisters Creativz either M-W or W-F). 01404 822 188 and Me Do you have children with an arty streak? www.escotcampwild.co.uk Champs Learning - Starting from 7th August Are you looking for something to keep them 2017, Champs Learning, a successful tuition for Marlborough College 9th July-5th August in entertained in the long summer holidays? Then English, Maths, Science and 11 Plus (Grammar Wiltshire SN8 1PA. Marlborough College Summer book them into the Summer Camp at Harrow Arts School Entrance) exams, is organizing a most School continues to welcome young people (3- Centre where a different theme will be introduced successful Summer School for Key Stage 1and 16yrs) to their action-packed week of activities and every day. The classes are from 9.30am-3pm, 2 for Numeracy/Literacy subjects and 11 plus entertainment either as residents with their families, for ages 5-11 years from Monday 24th July - aspirants at Harrow College, Harrow on the hill. or as day students on their own or in a group. Friday 28th July. 201707946 055 422 info@ Call 020 3004 9007 for details. 01672 892388 www.mcsummerschool.org.uk mysistersandme.co.uk www.mysistersandmecreate.blogspot.co.uk DiscoG Coding Academy – Summer Coding Mill on the Brue Outdoor Activity Centre Bootcamps for ages 6-14 years. They offer a Somerset. 9th July – 19th August. Family run and Aspire Offer Ofsted-registered activity camps wide range of coding bootcamps for children owned since 1982. Maximum 70 residential kids. during the school breaks. Camps are great for with different skills and interests, with an 25 acres fields, woods, river; over 40 exciting, 5 - 14 year olds and are run by experienced staff. emphasis on DiscoG’s 4’s of coding: Creativity, challenging activities. Trained, experienced, fun 020 8420 6725, www.aspire.org.uk Critical Thinking, Computational Thinking staff. Residential/day camps. Small groups/same Barracudas Activity Day Camps operate during and Collaboration. See website for more age.. 8–15. Delicious meals. Rail escort from the summer holidays at Watford Grammar School details or phone Gerard on 07767 300940. Paddington 01749 812307 www.millonthebrue. for Boys. Spending the holidays with them [email protected] www. co.uk means children get to: develop new skills, make discogcodingacademy.com continued on page 10 v

North West London JULY/AUGUST 2017 9 Summer Guide 2017

continued from page 9 v A special week long extravaganza Kids Can Achieve Run playschemes of music, singing, craft, dance and for children with additional needs. Explore Learning – Offer Maths and FUN!! Learn how to sing, dance The playscheme is all about your English tuition sessions for 5-14 year and play the steel pans, ukulele olds throughout the school holidays. child having fun through play and and drums culminating in a finale 01895 636378 www.explorelearning. structured activities, and sessions performance on Friday afternoon! org.uk are arranged around constructive All sessions are provided by Harrow Huzzah Performing Arts play, arts and crafts, outdoor play First Class Learning Watford - 11+ Music Service instrumental teachers. Unforgettable Performing Arts and swimming. 020 8420 2300 Mock Exams SW Consortium. Optional breakfast and board games Camps for Children aged 4 - 11. www.kidscanachieve.co.uk Sessions on Sat 15th July and club for early starters. Age Range: Focused & friendly, we take the Sat 12th Aug from 2.30-5.30pm, 7 – 12 years. drama out of learning new skills King’s Camps the UK’s leading 020 3773 7161 www.harrowarts.com including 1 hour immediate review and put it on that stage. provider of sport and activity followed by feedback report. 11+ A tried and tested mash up of camps for 4-17 year olds during Harrow Woodcraft Folk Fun & intensive revision classes in August. favourite drama games, singing the holidays. Offering week freedom in the countryside, at Sessions take place at Central and dance will bring out the best long packages and FlexiCare; their weekend camps all summer, Primary School in Watford, WD17 in your child. There’s a show for there’s something available for for all the family. Camp craft such 2LX. Book now on 07554 287 067 or friends and family at the end of everyone.0114 263 2160 www. [email protected] as putting up tents & fire lighting; the week! group games in the fields and kingscamps.org 10am - 4pm. Mon - Fri. Fit For Sport delivering OFSTED woods; exploring nature; arts and July 17th - 21st registered Activity Camps for crafts and campfire songs & stories. Knowledge Above Standard The Wizard of Oz children aged between 3 – 12 years Call 0208 428 2409 Maths, English, Verbal and non- old, for over 20 years. Camps are www.woodcraft.org.uk St Matthew’s Church, St Mary’s verbal reasoning, 7+, 11+ 13+ exam a great way for your child to keep Road NW10 preparation. Classes run throughout active, have fun, make new friends Hertsmere’s Summer Fun Play July 24th - 28th the holidays. 07985 588 085 and take part in a wide range of Schemes Hertsmere Leisure will The Lion King www.knowledgeabovestandard. sports and activities. Activity camps be running Play Schemes at their Leopold Primary School, co.uk are delivered every school holiday centres. www.hertsmereleisure.co.uk Hawkshead Rd NW10 by Fit for Sport, the UK’s Leading www.huzzahperformingarts.com Leaders Are Readers – Their Healthy Lifestyle Activities Provider! Hillingdon Outdoor Activities Summer School is attended by 0845 456 3233 or www.fitforsport. Centre (HOAC) Sailing, Windsurfing, children from all over the world and co.uk Kayaking and Land activities for 5-18 JK Educate 11+ Workshops in early booking is advised. This year yr olds, from 17th July to 1st Sept. Maths and English for Y5 and Y6 they are running from Monday 24th Fleet Tutors – Run 5-day or 3-day 01895 824 171 www.hoac.net children. A series of engaging 11+ July to Friday 11th August, 2017 small group preparation courses for workshop days to boost children’s (3 weeks) at Bentley Wood High 11+ or 13+ entrance exams. These Holidaytime Holiday Club – Offer motivation and confidence, teaching School, Stanmore; and Monday 31st are run by highly successful school a fun, active and safe time for all and practising the skills needed to July to Friday 18th August, 2017 (3 entrance exam tutors and focus on children aged between 3 and 13 succeed in the 11+ exams. The next weeks) at Haydon School in Pinner. Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning years at Quainton Hall School in workshops will take place on Sunday The aim is to cover a year’s essential and Non-Verbal Reasoning during Harrow from 24th July to 18th Aug. 2nd July and Tuesday 29th August. work in 3 weeks, fill in learning the week, with students sitting mock Activities include swimming, arts To book a place for your child at a gaps and prepare children on exam papers. 0845 644 5452 and crafts, trips, sports coaching, workshop or Mock Exam session, www.fleet-tutors.co.uk advanced topics so they can zoom cooking, parties, nature trails, please call Nimita on 020 3448 ahead when they return to school games, and much more. 07903 Harrow Arts Centre – Summer Music 0754 or email [email protected]. in September. 01992 651300 www. 126486 www.activetime.co.uk Camp from Mon 24th - Fri 28th July. Full Workshop details available at: leadersarereaders.co.uk www.jkeducate.co.uk/the-11 Little Big Leaders - Get real results Jigsaw Summer Schools – instantly in Reading, Maths or designed to provide enjoyable English for your child aged 3.5 to and stimulating performing arts 11. Remarkable lessons during term activities for students during the time & 3 week premium Summer school holidays. The sessions are School at Rickmansworth, Bushey, split into age groups of 3 to 5 years Edgware. Call NOW 020 3637 6266 (9.30-11.30am) and 6 to 16 years (24/7) www.littlebigleaders.com (9am-3.30pm). This year’s theme at Watford Grammar School for Girls Little Kickers Courses running is Aladdin. The workshops will run throughout the summer. Football from 31st July to 4th August. 020 training for kids from 18 months to 8447 4530 www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk under 7 years. Ruislip, Northwood/ Oxhey, Pinner, & Watford jodiesloan@littlekickers.

First Class Learning Watford

11+ MOCK EXAMS SW CONSORTIUM Saturday 15th July 2.30pm-5.30pm Saturday 12th August 2.30pm-5.30pm Includes 1 hour IMMEDIATE review followed by feedback report

11+ INTENSIVE REVISION CLASSES – AUGUST Central Primary School, Derby Road, Watford, WD17 2LX BOOK NOW Tel: 07554 287 067 [email protected]

10 North West London JULY/AUGUST 2017 Summer Guide 2017 co.uk 0208 123 9346. Mill Hill, Swiss levels, ages and abilities throughout and exploring the grand Palace Of Regent Group Summer Holiday Cottage, Hampstead, Golders Green, the holidays. Classes run in Hatch Dreams, they’ll learn songs, rehearse School - A range of programmes Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet jlevene@ End, Harrow, Northolt, and Bushey. dances and put together scenes that to consolidate academic learning littlekickers.co.uk 0208 201 1084. www.moderncombatmartialarts.com tell the story of how Beauty met the for 5-14 year olds from 31st July Bushey & Harrow HA3 0208 422 www.fightingcombatfitness.co.uk Beast. 7-12 year olds will be joining to 1st Sept. Junior Holiday School 0676 www.littlekickers.co.uk 07818 416 671 Zak & Zara and the space age family for ages 5-10 at Harrow; Creative [email protected] on an epic cyberspace adventure. Arts Holiday School for ages 8-14 The London Children’s Practice They’ll rehearse and perform a funky at Kingsbury; 11+ entrance exam is running a summer camp from Monkey Music Their holiday special written show exploring prep in Harrow and Edgware. 24th July 2017- 25th August 2017, workshops are a popular way to online safety. Perform courses are [email protected] Monday-Friday, 9.45am-3pm. The keep children entertained during packed with dance, drama, singing 020 3870 6666 www.regentlearning. camp will develop children’s speech, the holidays. Unlike the regular and fun and are run by highly skilled com/summerschool language, sensory, motor and social classes where children are strictly trained actors. Prices start from skills in a fun environment, for grouped according to age, the £175. Various dates throughout Rocksteady Music School’s Summer more information please contact holiday workshops cater for a mixed July and August 020 7255 9120 Camps make music fun giving 02074679520, discounts for block age group of children. Older siblings [email protected] budding rockstars aged 5-11 years booking available. Located at 18 love joining in the fun and they also www.perform.org.uk/holidays the chance to play in a band and Wimpole Street, W1G 8GD. welcome friends and visitors. Book perform songs they love. Rock out early to avoid disappointment. The Rainbow Club - Don’t forget 24th – 28th July and 31st July – 4th Makes ‘n’ Bakes – Summer holiday 0208 427 6595 to book your child’s place for this August in Edgware from 9am – baking classes for ages 2.5-6 years. www.monkeymusic.co.uk Summers MiniArtists Workshop 3pm with optional extended hours Begins with a story, weighing sessions on July 17th, 18th, and 21st available. Call for venue details or to out ingredients, baking a yummy NumberWorks‘nWords Maths and from 9.30am - 1pm. Limited spaces book 0845 094 1259 creation then making a quality craft. English tuition classes which will available. Classes will be held in Sessions last 1 hour with a maximum Royal Yacht Association (RYA) target identified needs to improve Moor Park, Northwood. Please of 6 children per class. 07887 OnBoard - This summer, get your achievement levels. Catering for contact [email protected] 984401 [email protected] youngsters active by introducing all levels from 4 to 16 years old. /07850045471 to book. them to sailing and windsurfing Specialised programmes for 7+, www.facebook.com/rainbowclub. Mini Minors Holiday Camp & Play through RYA OnBoard. They’ll 11+ and SATs. Summer course now co.uk Scheme Multi-activity holiday day enrolling – 1st – 17th August. www. learn an exciting new sport in a camps for children aged 3-6 in numberworks.co.uk 0208 868 7672 safe environment, get out on the the Summer holidays. Based at Raviv Practice London - Prevent @numberworks.com water and gain valuable life skills Brookland School in Hampstead regression in the school holidays- from problem solving to taking Garden Suburb from Mon 24th July Keep your child’s brain stimulated responsibility. Anyone aged 8-18 can to Fri 18th Aug. Activities include Perform - three and five day and improve academic performance take part in OnBoard sessions and sports, arts and crafts, dance, summer courses for 4-12s. Inspire during the holidays. Raviv Practice with over 245 RYA approved venues drama, bouncy castle, yoga and your child’s imagination this London offers three evidence-based across the country there’s bound to much more! Ofsted registered and summer with Perform’s unique computer programs that present the be one near you. inspected as ‘Outstanding’! 020 8371 holiday courses. During July and perfect compromise between play To find your nearest OnBoard 9686 www.xkeys.co.uk/day-camps/ August your 4-7 year old could and work. One-to-one intervention activity visit rya.org.uk/onboard mini-minors-xuk-day be acting out the classic Beauty & scientifically proven to improve your #GetOnBoard visit rya.org.uk/ Beast fairytale on one of Perform’s child’s grades. onboard #GetOnBoard Modern Combat Martial Arts offer three or five day courses in Contact Usha Patel - Raviv Practice a wide range of classes suited to all venues in Pinner and Northwood. London on 07766 837 616 Venturing into the Spooky Wood continued on page 12 v

North West London JULY/AUGUST 2017 11 Summer Guide 2017

v continued from page 11 learning environment”. Save 15% on all courses Willows Activity Farm – Activity Day Camps with code FAMILIES17.www.supercamps.co.uk every school holiday. As well as all the fun of Willows Activity Farm, the children enjoy indoor Sylvia Young Theatre School - If your child would play in their exclusive playrooms. Lunch and a Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts From 14th- like to work with the top teachers from The Sylvia two course hot meal plus all drinks and snacks are 26th August Sharpe Academy are running a Young Theatre School (Marylebone) then why also included. Activities include farmyard animals, Musical Theatre Summer School at Watersmeet in not join a one week Theatre Skills holiday school. funfair rides, bouncy castles, The Big Dig - sand Rickmansworth with a theme of Beauty and the This fun filled busy course is open to anyone aged and water play, indoor play barn, treasure hunts Beast. There is a session for 3-5 year olds daily at 7-18 years and offers Drama/Audition Technique, and den building. With changing seasonal events 10.30am-12.30pm, and for 6-18 year olds at 10am- Singing / Microphone Technique, Street there’s something new each school holiday. 4pm each day. 01923 711063 Dance and Basic Circus Skills. Musical Theatre Willows Activity Day Camps are OFSTED www.sharpeacademy.co.uk Performance weeks are also available. 24th July registered. Open Mon 24th July to Fri 1 Sept. -19th Aug, £310.00 per week. To find out more go 01727 829535 SportsKids Academy - Multi-sports Activities for to www.syts.co.uk www.willowsactivityfarm.com children. All students are taught in small groups of similar age and ability. Mini academy ages The Radlett Centre Five Day Musical Theatre 4-6 years (an hour and a half) Main Academy Workshop. 8-16 years. Mon 31st July-Fri 25th Aug. The Windmill 6-16 years (3 hours). (Previously known as Sing, dance and act at this very popular event! Studio Centre, SportsCoach.) Held at JFS The Mall Kenton and They do not ask for any previous experience, but based in Ruislip Rickmansworth Masonic School Rickmansworth as this is a performance of a very high standard, Manor. 01923255099 [email protected] www. you must be prepared to work hard and take “MONSTER direction. 01923 857546 www.radlettcentre.co.uk sportskidsacademy.co.uk MASH” Magical Summer Holiday Fun Workshop 2017 for Stagecoach Summer Workshops performing Type IT! - Touch Typing Lessons for Children in kids aged 4-9 runs 9.30am-12.30pm 31st arts holiday workshops for 4-6 year olds (half HA2. Learn to touch type! Weekly lessons and July – 4th August amid the safe and clean day) and 6-18 years (full day). Learn a show in intensive holiday courses for children from age surroundings of The Windmill Studio Centre, a week, make friends, learn new skills working 8-18. Highly recommended for children with Pembroke Road, . with industry professionals – with a costumed dyslexia. Classes are held at their office in Harrow Professionally run by DBS checked staff, the performance on the Friday to family and friends! on the Hill, HA2 0JT. Free trials available. Adult Workshop features a host of mad monster www.stagecoach.co.uk/holidayworkshops classes also available. 020 8434 7111. www.typeitforkids.co.uk. mash themed activities including creative Super Camps’ fabulous new Multi-Activity [email protected] arts, cold cooking, singing, dancing, acting programme at Bishop Ramsey School, Ruislip, and modelling with a special farewell fancy Northwood College for Girls, and the Royal dress party and party lunch on the final day. Watford Football Club Central Trust ‘Holiday Fun Masonic School for Girls, Rickmansworth Jimmy the JAMtots Bear will also be Weeks’ invite children from 5 - 12 years old, with allows children to get involved in some great the benefits including the opportunity to win popping in and joining in the fun throughout activities. As well as taking part in the fun-packed trophies and medals; a chance to learn new skills the week. programme, children are cared for by fully and meet new friends; be coached by Watford’s A morning snack and drink is included qualified and vetted staff to create a thoroughly award-winning Trust team; FREE gift for week enjoyable time on camp. As Ofsted noted, in the £80 price. long bookings; Both 10am-3pm and 9am-4pm Super Camps runs “an excellent programme of Contact T: 01895 624755, courses available. 01923 496362 well-planned, fun and exciting activities that E: [email protected] www.watfordfccsetrust.com contributes highly to the children’s play and

12 North West London JULY/AUGUST 2017 Summer Guide 2017

SW Consortium QE Boys 11+ subjects

Saturday 15 July 2017...... 1.00pm - 4.30pm Saturday 5 August 2017...... 1.00pm - 4.30pm Nascot Wood Junior School, Nascot Wood Road, Watford WD17 4YS

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North West London JULY/AUGUST 2017 13 Summer Guide 2017

SUMMER Days Out…

Bank of Museum (EC2R) Gulliver’s Land (MK15) Gold bars, Banknotes, a crown and even a Designed for children aged 2-13 years, cat (yes a cat!) are just a few of the treasured comprising thrill rides, fun rides, family rides, items found within the Museum, each with indoor rides, attractions, shows and play areas. its own story to tell. Explore the Museum this Guests are welcome to take their own lunches summer and discover the stories behind your to enjoy in the picnic areas, helping to make favourite objects, then make your visit a day to this an affordable family day out. remember by creating your own photo album www.gulliversfun.co.uk www.bankofengland.co.uk JW3 (NW3) Belmont Farm (NW7) Hampstead Beach returns to JW3 for the third A children’s farm with over thirty different time, has free entry and will be open from types of animals for visitors to see, meet and Sunday to Friday from Sun 2nd July. The feed. You can join in with petting sessions urban beach will feature golden sand, amazing which run throughout the day and jump on food and cocktails to set the mood for long the tractor & trailer ride through the beautiful evenings of sun, fun and holiday vibes. Keep an Belmont Estate. eye out for special events which will be taking Dinosaurs In The Wild www.belmontfarm.co.uk place on the beach throughout the summer. Open Sundays – Thursdays: 9am-10.30pm and Fridays: 9am-5pm. Saturdays: Closed. Birmingham NEC: Dinosaurs in the Wild Rumble Tumble Harrow (HA1) www.jw3.org.uk/beach From the creators of the BBC’s Walking With Harrow’s only indoor supervised soft play Dinosaurs, Dinosaurs In The Wild combines children’s play group. Why not take advantage theatre, theme park fun and the latest science Knebworth House and Gardens (SG3) of the Drop & Shop facility and have a stress- – weaving live sets together with cutting-edge Knebworth Park offers a great day out for all free shop? You can even relax and have a snack computer-generated imagery and animatronics the family, with fun activities for children and in the restaurant while your little ones are to create a believable prehistoric world, where lots to do for all ages, including Adventure playing. visitors will feel as though they are really there, Playground, Dinosaur Trail, a walk-through www.rumble-tumble.com in the time of the dinosaurs. history in Knebworth House and Gardens and www.dinosaursinthewild.com special events throughout the summer (see ‘What’s On’ listings for further details). Stepney City Farm (E1) www.knebworthhouse.com A working farm, rural arts centre and British Museum (WC1B) community meeting place which gives children Hunt for treasure at the British Museum with and adults a chance to meet farm animals, learn THATMuse. As hunters weave through the halls, Legoland Windsor (SL4) how to grow food and try out arts and crafts. scouting out and photographing the treasures Begin an unforgettable adventure with an The Farm is free to all visitors and everyone from their clue list, they will interact with the overnight stay within the new Castle Hotel at is welcome. Go along on the last Saturday of exhibits and learn about the artefacts the find. the LEGOLAND Windsor Resort - keep the the month for Family Farm Club, which will Hunts can be booked on the website and start spellbinding fun alive and create your own have free drop in activities for children and at £75 per family. captivating tale of mythical beasts and magic! accompanying adults. Nature and gardening www.britishmuseum.org www.thatmuse.com Keep the magic going in the Resort, with over activities, arts and crafts, sensory play for the 55 interactive rides and attractions including little ones from 1-4pm. Chiltern Open Air Museum (HP8) the amazing NEW Ninjago World. Fly through www.stepneycityfarm.org the treetops to escape fearsome dragons, This summer enjoy lots of exciting family events ride the thrilling rapids with a Viking Fleet, and living history at Chiltern Open Air Museum. join LEGO® divers on a magical underwater ZSL London Zoo (NW1) See the ‘What’s On’ listings for details of family adventure on Atlantis Submarine Voyage Zoorassic Park is coming to ZSL London Zoo events and activities taking place over the or enjoy the UK’s only LEGO® Star Wars™ from 22nd July to 3rd September. Take a trip summer. Why not go along on a Tuesday for Miniland Model Display. back in time and meet the newest residents in the Museum’s ‘Terrific Tuesday’, which will have www.legoland.co.uk the Zoorassic Park dinosaur experience! Keep special themed family activities, games and an eye open – more information coming soon. crafts all for the standard admission price! www.zsl.org www.coam.org.uk

Carry on camping…

etting closer to nature and spending time as • Head torches are a great idea. Kids love them and they a family away from work and technology are mean you can be hands-free for toilet trips, getting great reasons to take a family camping trip or a dressed, eating and reading. A torch that hooks onto the Gweekend festival. Now, a recent study has found top of the tent is also useful so you can find your bits and that a weekend under canvas can help re-set your body pieces and play games. clocks and improve sleeping habits too. If it does rain… So what’s stopping you dusting off that old sleeping bag and getting your pitch booked? It’s almost inevitable that the good old British weather If you’re still feeling tent-ative (ho ho!) here are a few will throw a few raindrops your way, but snuggling inside pointers… with a pitter patter overhead is all part of the experience, and it’s not miserable if you go prepared. • Go for bedding that works for you. If you don’t like sleeping bags, take your duvet. • Take a trilby, peak cap and/or umbrella • Calories keep you warm. Eating something before you go • An extra gazebo for eating in and playing games can be to sleep can really help in warming you up and keeping you a god send in the rain and means that your sleeping tent warm into the night. won’t get trashed with muddy feet. • Wear layers and keep your head warm. Some sleeping bags are designed to go over your head, but if you’re not • Card games like Orchard Toys Mini Games, UNO, Whot! or keen on that then wear a fleecy hat and get the kids to do Dobble go down well the same.

14 North West London JULY/AUGUST 2017 Summer Guide 2017

…and festival fun! Camping and Festival essentials: Give THEM some freedom while YOU stay connected Keep them We looked at two different ‘watches’ that allow parents to stay snug and connected with their kids without the responsibility of looking after warm at night (and losing!) a phone. Snugpak, the UK’s leading The Gator sleeping bag and Make and receive calls to and from “safe” numbers insulated clothing that have been chosen by parents using the partner manufacturer, app, which runs on iOS and Android. In addition, has added ‘safezone’ gps settings, voice monitoring of the a Basecamp child’s environment, and all tracking information is Explorer sleeping streamed directly to the parent’s phone. Simple to bag for children use for child and parent. Ages 5+ to its popular www.techsixtyfour.com Basecamp range. The Basecamp Explorer is the perfect sleeping bag RRP: £99 (monthly plans to introduce kids to the Snugpak range. It is useful for a whole array starting at £9) of situations, including camping trips in late spring and throughout the summer, sleepovers with friends or wherever else their imagination may take them. The WatchPhone www.snugpak.com RRP £29.95 Similar to the Gator, The WatchPhone offers one- touch distress calling, safezone gps tracking, calls BlackOut and messaging. In addition, this product allows children to ‘friend’ other users in their area and Bedrooms™ send emojis via the touch-screen interface. It is make for fully compatible with all pay as you go and pay monthly UK networks using a micro sim. a peaceful Oaxis.com RRP: £99 night’s sleep! Exclusive to Coleman, the Tarra Toilet queues! advanced BlackOut Enter Tron - the disposable, folding, Bedrooms™ block biodegradable, portable potty. Small enough to fit out up to 99% in your handbag, Tron unfolds into a robust and of external light, comfortable little potty, complete with its own promising an end to absorbent and biodegradable, fully leak-proof broken sleep caused pad. Once your child has done their business, by long, bright you can fold Tron up again and use its cleverly integrated handles to deliver it seamlessly and evenings or the without odour or mess, to the nearest bin. It can early morning light. withstand up to 30kg of weight, making it suitable In addition to keeping unwanted light for children up to six years old. out of the bedroom while camping, the BlackOut Bedrooms™ also help to maintain a comfortable temperature Orchard Toys new mini-game series inside the tent. By storing energy from the sun on the surface of the Six new lines to their popular mini game range based on traditional fabric, the new BlackOut technology family favourites gives keeps the bedroom up to 5oC cooler classic games, from snakes and during the day and up to 1oC warmer ladders to happy during the night. The result? A restful families, a fun night’s sleep and maximum comfort ‘Orchard Toys’ on the campsite. twist! Quick and easy to pitch thanks to its The fantastic tunnel construction, the Oak Canyon price point of combines its large, dark bedrooms £4.99 each with a spacious living area that makes them a provides an ideal area for the family must-have for a to relax. playcation with For more information on Coleman’s the little people new range of BlackOut Bedroom™ in your life. tents visit: www.coleman.eu/uk/c- 796-BlackOut-bedroom-tents.aspx RRP £349.99

Family Friendly Festivals this summer: Brentwood Festival Curious Arts Festival Wilderness Festival Fri 14th – Sun 16th Jul 17 Fri 21st – Sun 23rd Jul 17 Thu 3rd – Sun 6th Aug 17 Brentwood Centre, CM15 9NN Pylewell Park, Lymington, SO41 5SJ Cornbury Park, Oxfordshire, OX7 3DG Includes fun kid’s activities and fairground Immersive theatre, games and workshops for Onsite babysitting service, and Green Caterpillar rides. children. Forest Overnight Camps for children. www.brentwoodfestival.co.uk www.curiousartsfestival.com www.wildernessfestival.com Camp Bestival Live Expressions Festival WOMAD Thu 27th – Sun 30th Jul 17 Fri 7th – Sun 9th Jul 17 Thu 27th – Sun 30th Jul 17 Lulworth Castle, Dorset, BH20 5QS Colebrook Lakes, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 3UP Charlton Park, Malmesbury, SN16 9LL Kids are king at Camp Bestival. There is an A dedicated children’s area with minders, full Features ‘World of Children’ with tree climbing, avalanche of activities for children of all of games and activities for your little ones kid’s yoga and workshops. ages; 2 to 62! to enjoy. www.womad.co.uk www.campbestival.net www.liveexpressions.co.uk Cornbury Music Festival Standon Calling Fri 7th – Sun 9th Jul 17 Thu 27th - Sun 30th Jul 17 The Great Tew Park, Oxfordshire, OX7 4AF Standon Lordship, Standon, SG11 1EE Free Kids’ Zone with Circus Skills and craft A fantastic family friendly festival, with activities. on-site babysitting. www.cornburyfestival.com www.standon-calling.com

North West London JULY/AUGUST 2017 15 Summer Guide 2017

Compiled by Anna Blackshaw What’s On in Children’s Theatre We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check before setting out. The Alban Arena Civic Centre, St Albans 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk Wed 26 Jul – The Wiggles The Wiggles Big Show is coming to the UK Emma, Lachy, Simon and Anthony will play everyone’s favourite Wiggles songs like ‘Hot Potato’, ‘Rock-a-Bye your Bear’ and ‘Do the Propeller!’, along with their Wiggly friends Dorothy the Dinosaur, Wags the Dog, Henry the Octopus and Captain Feathersword. Arc House Lowlands Road, Harrow-on-the-Hill, HA1 www.archousevenue.co.uk Thu 24 Aug – Open Air Theatre: The Smartest Giant in Town George was the scruffiest giant in town. But one day, when he sees a shop stocking giant-size clothes, he decides it’s time to update his image. However, as he journeys home, he meets various animals who desperately need his help. George’s kind heart and generosity take him on an adventure where he discovers that it’s not how you look that’s important but how you feel. Folksy’s musical adaptation of Julia Donaldson’s wonderful book will be filled with puppetry, colourful characters and songs, that will have you clapping and singing along!

Cadogan Hall 5 Sloane Terrace, London SW1X Around the World in 80 Days - Cadogan Hall 020 7730 4500 www.cadoganhall.com

Wed 2 Aug - Sat 2 Sep - Thu 27 Jul – Fri 4 Aug - The Jumble Fri 11 – Sun 13 Aug - Much Ado About golden Dolphin befriends him, and helps him to see Around the World in 80 Days Book - Planet Play Especially recommended Puffin On a small island… In the middle of the big the error of his ways, that he becomes Captain Shiney The New Vic Theatre’s celebrated production for very young children, join the Tales team for a fun sea… A man meets a bird. Join Open Attic as they and finds true happiness, in this humorous morality of Jules Verne’s Around The World in 80 Days and interactive sensory session based on the themes traverse stormy seas and reckless tides to bring you tale. Ages 3-8 yrs returns to the stage for a major six month tour. and characters from The Jumble Book. This will be a this funny tale about a man all alone, a friendly puffin, brilliant and immersive opportunity for children to and a whole lot of fuss over nothing. Using skilful Nominated for both the UK Theatre Awards The Radlett Centre really get involved in true Tales from the Shed fashion! puppetry, beautiful music, and good old fashioned ‘Best New Production’ and the Manchester Ages 0-3yrs storytelling, Much Ado About Puffin is about old habits, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7 Theatre Awards ‘Best Show for Children and new friendships, and stepping out into the unknown! 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk Families’, this is the production’s first national Ages 4-9 years Little Angel Theatre Tue 8 Aug – High School Rocks! Join tour. The mysterious and fabulously wealthy the high-energy, interactive production featuring the Phileas Fogg wagers his life’s fortune that he can 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross St, N1 Lyric Theatre very biggest hits from all the High School Musicals plus circumnavigate the globe in just 80 days. We join 020 7226 1787 www.littleangeltheatre.com Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 7ES School of Rock and Glee. Featuring all the very best hits Fogg and his loyal valet, Passepartout, as they Until Sun 16 Jul – Dogs Don’t Do 0844 482 9674 www.nimaxtheatres.com from High School Musicals 1, 2 and 3, plus the No1 songs voyage from the misty alleys of Victorian London Ballet Biff is not like ordinary dogs. He likes from West End and Broadway smash School of Rock to the exotic subcontinent and the Wild West in a moonlight. And music. And walking on his tiptoes. Wed 5 Jul – Sun 10 Sep - What the and the biggest tunes from Golden Globe-winning TV Two crafty robbers, one tiny race against the clock. You see, Biff doesn’t think he’s a dog, Biff thinks he’s a Ladybird Heard series Glee. Rocking out to We’re All in This Together, ladybird, and a whole farmyard of fun! Hefty Hugh and Don’t Stop Believing, Breaking Free, Stick it to the Man, An ensemble cast of 8 play over 125 characters ballerina… The sublime and the ridiculous combine in this hilarious story of a small dog with a big personality Lanky Len have a cunning plan to steal the farmer’s Fabulous, and – of course – High School Musical, it’s a in an imaginative and physically inventive high- and even bigger dreams, brought to life using beautiful fine prize cow. But they reckon without the tiniest, slam-dunking, cheer-leading, best-years-of-your-life spirited escapade including six trains, five boats, puppets, well-loved ballet music and dazzling theatrical quietest creature of all: The Ladybird has a plan of ride of fun, music and dance. four fights, three dances, two circus acts and an comedy by Little Angel Theatre. Ages 2-7 yrs her own! Join the woolly sheep, the hairy hog, the elephant! fat red hen and the dainty dog in this glittering stage Thu 10 Aug - Milkshake! Live ‘The Fri 7 – Sat 8 Jul - Twinkle Twinkle adaptation of Julia Donaldson & Lydia Monks’ colourful Magic Story Book’ Starring Milkshake! Join a magical journey to discover the wonders of farmyard adventure. With live music, puppetry, plenty Favourites plus two Milkshake! presenters, this all Thu 3 Aug - Sun 3 Sep - We’re Going melody, colour and light. Created by TouchedTheatre, of audience participation and lots of laughs! singing, all dancing, musical masterpiece, will take on a Bear Hunt Direct from a smash-hit West Twinkle Twinkle invites you into an enchanting space audiences on a journey through the world’s favourite End season and international tour, Michael Rosen’s where very young audiences can watch, touch, play fairy tales. Set amongst Milkshake’s magical bookcase, award-winning book We’re Going on a Bear Hunt is and discover the beautiful worlds of music and the Pump House this brand new live show is sure to amaze and delight! brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director stars. Featuring interactive toy instruments and an Lower Watford High Street, Watford WD17 The Milkshake! cast will be singing songs and sharing Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji unforgettable puppet dog. Ages 18 months to 3 years 01923 241 362 www.pumphouse.info stories that audience members, young and old, will Bower’s versatile lively score. Join the intrepid family Wed 19 – Sun 23 Jul - The Wind in the know and love. Tue 4 – Sat 8 Jul – The Wiz Very many of adventurers and their musical dog on their quest to Willows From the peaceful pleasures of Ratty’s know the story of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, but in Join find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy beloved river bank to the fearful frights and wicked Tue 15 – Thu 17 Aug - The Gruffalo this new super soul musical version it’s a fantasy for Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick weasels of the Wild Wood, join Mole and Ratty on their today - mysterious, opulent and fanciful - a dream wood in Tall Stories’ magical, musical adaptation of oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive marvellous adventures, along with gruff old Badger and conjured up by a space-age child with Dorothy’s the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure! wild Mr.Toad. A beautiful new adaptation of Kenneth adventures in the Land of Oz set to music in a dazzling, Scheffler. Searching for hazelnuts, Mouse meets the Grahame’s much loved classic by award winning lively mixture of rock, gospel and soul. cunning Fox, the eccentric old Owl and the party mad theatre company Box Tale Soup, Wind in the Willows Snake. Will the story of the terrifying Gruffalo save Chickenshed features handmade puppets, props and costume, and a Mouse from ending up as dinner for these hungry charming original score. Ages 5-11 years Puppet Theatre Barge Chase Side Southgate N14. woodland creatures? After all, there’s no such thing 020 8292 9222 www.chickenshed.org.uk Fri 4 – Sun 6 Aug - Journey of Turtle Little Venice W9 (During the summer the Barge is as a Gruffalo – is there? Songs, laughs and scary fun Wed 19 Jul – Sun 6 Aug - The Turtles are old, millions of years old, as old as dinosaurs, at Richmond, TW10) for children aged 3 and up and their grown-ups, in the Midnight Gang Five children find themselves in as old as some hills. Go to Turtle Hill and experience 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com much-loved show that’s toured Britain and the world! an imaginative journey through the evolution and hospital for a variety of reasons, including Tom who’s Sat 22 Jul – Sun 6 Aug – The Three been hit on the head by a cricket ball and really doesn’t learning of this most fascinating and ancient creature. In the beginning turtle was shiny and fast, always Pigs and the Wolf plus Captain Unicorn Theatre want to go back to school. They soon discover that The Three Pigs and The Wolf is a lively impatient, always in a hurry, but then one day he had Grimey something far more exciting is happening beyond the show that breathes new life into these well-known 147 Tooley Street, SE1. a terrible accident… A beautiful story about following confines of the children’s ward. A heart-warming and characters - each of the pigs has an air of mischief and 020 7645 0560 www.unicorntheatre.com your dream, told with shadows, table-top puppets and hilarious tale of fun, friendship and adventure ensues, naivety, while the wicked wolf has just a hint of a wry Until Mon 17 Jul - Sensacional 2017 traditional storytelling. Ages 5-11 years all under the cover of darkness when the horrible smile. Captain Grimey is the dirtiest, most miserable, Take your toddler along to a sound and light show matron is sure they are all fast asleep. Ages 6+ one-legged sea captain in the world. It is not until the in which they are the participants. Watch as your

16 North West London JULY/AUGUST 2017 Summer Guide 2017 child puts on a white suit and becomes part of a digital world of ladybirds, shapes, squiggles and squarks that The Three Pigs and the Wolf plus Captain Grimey won’t keep still, no matter how hard you try to catch - Puppet Theatre Barge them! Bursting with colour and joy, this interactive and immersive digital experience will captivate both you and your child. Ages 18 mnths – 3 yrs Vaudeville Theatre 404 Strand, London WC2R 0844 482 9675 www.nimaxtheatres.com/vaudeville-theatre Wed 26 Jul – Sat 2 Sep – The Hunting of the Snark The impossible voyage of an improbable crew to hunt an imaginary creature is brought magically to life in this sparkling musical comedy adventure for 4 to 94 year olds. Enter the imaginative world of Alice in Wonderland creator, Lewis Carroll, in this brand new, highly original, ultra-modern adaptation inspired by his much loved classic poem. This show features five high-energy actors, life-like puppets, fantastical characters, and lashings of daft humour.

the story but has a problem, there are no pages in the gloves and don’t know what to do! So, they decide to go Watford Colosseum book! He tries to tell the story and we meet Red Riding on a journey around the world looking for food and some Rickmansworth Road Watford WD17 Hood’s mum, dad and grandma but he keeps getting friends. They bump into some woodland animals who 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk the story wrong. So Cinderella arrives to help, dancing just want to play sports all the time, luckily they know a conga with her Jack’s Baked Beans Band and suggests the best way out of the forest is with an audience wide Sat 1 Jul – Mister Maker & the Shapes auditions to find the Wolf to end the story. This is a relay race. But while taking part, the siblings get trapped CBeebies’ Mister Maker is back by popular demand Live! professional, live theatre show, suitable for children aged by the Witch. Luckily, the Gingerbread Man has a great in his smash hit live theatre tour! With a fabulous from 7 to 11 years old. idea to save them, he’ll just need some help…This is a Watersmeet supporting cast and art at its heart, this fantastic live professional, live theatre show, suitable for children aged show encourages Mini Makers and grown-ups to sing, High St, Rickmansworth WD3 Fri 11 Aug - Hansel, Gretel and You... from 7 to 11 years old. 01923 711 063 www.watersmeet.co.uk dance and make some noise! There are exciting new Who? Hansel and Gretel have been turned into oven ‘makes’ and songs, lots of audience participation, a Sun 23 Jul – NT Live: Peter Pan Encore BIG ‘make’ to take part in, and….The Shapes are back! Captured live at the National Theatre, a recorded Yes, you’ll be able to share the fun with Circle, Square, performance of JM Barrie’s much-loved tale screens in Rectangle and Triangle too! cinemas this summer. When Peter Pan, leader of the Lost For many more local events Boys, loses his shadow, headstrong Wendy helps him to reattach it. In return, she is invited to Neverland, where Winston Churchill Theatre and diary dates for the Tinker Bell the fairy, Tiger Lily and the vengeful Captain Hook await. A riot of magic, music and make-believe Pinn Way Ruislip HA4 01895 250615 whole family visit ensues. A delight for children and adults alike, Sally www.hillingdontheatres.uk Cookson directs this wondrously inventive production, a Thu 3 Aug - Little Red Riding Hood and www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk co-production with Bristol Old Vic theatre. Friends Little Red Riding Hood’s friend arrives to tell

North West London JULY/AUGUST 2017 17 Summer Guide 2017 listings for What’s On all the family Compiled by Anna Blackshaw To promote your local event, coffee morning, nearly new sale, parenting courses or community group in the next What’s On listing (September 2017) send your entry by 15 August 2017 Email [email protected]. Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check details of the events before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.

www.FamiliesOnline for all our local weekly regular events. It’s updated every day!

Sat 1 Jul - Crafty Caterpillars at INTU Watford Mon 3 – Fri 7 Jul - Barclaycard presents British July (WD17) Go along between 10am and 3pm and join in a crafty day Summer Time Hyde Park’s Open House at INTU Watford. There will be the building of a Giant Very Hungry 2017! (W2) Barclaycard presents British Summer Time Hyde Caterpillar and lots of crafty makes. Run by Home-Start Watford Park’s OPEN HOUSE returns for a marvellous week of free entry to and Three Rivers. the summer activities. On offer will be outdoor movie nights, tennis [email protected] screenings live from Wimbledon, street food stalls from all over the world, pop up bars serving draft & craft beer, wine & cocktails, live Sat 1 Jul - Lots for Tots Sale Rickmansworth music and entertainment, the Moretti Gran Tour, Soho Radio live Throughout the Summer - (WD3) An indoor table top sale for people that want to sell their broadcasting, Chickenshed Theatre and much, much more. second hand baby, toddler and children’s items, and those that www.bst-hydepark.com/openhouse Animal Agents: the 2017 Summer want to buy them. Visitors can browse each sellers table and pick Reading Challenge! (various local out exactly what they need, paying the seller direct. The seller Tue 4 Jul - A Tribute to Roald Dahl and other libraries) This year’s theme is ‘Animal Agents’, who keeps all of the money they make and the buyer goes home with authors (HA4) The South Ruislip students from Stars at Knight love solving mysteries and need YOU to help them crack lots of bargains. 10am - 11.30am at Rickmansworth School. School of Drama have chosen to perform scenes from Roald Dahl’s their biggest case yet. Read six library books (or more!) [email protected] www.lotsfortotssale.co.uk Matilda, 101 Dalmations and Toad of Toad Hall among others. The over the holidays to collect special stickers and complete event takes place in South Ruislip Library at 6pm, entry is free but the Challenge. Each time you visit the library, you’ll Sat 1 Jul - London Shopping Festival (HA3) space is limited. discover new clues and evidence that will help you solve A multi cultural event with a jam-packed programme including Book via: [email protected] or call 01895 this cryptic case. At the end of the challenge, collect your styling sessions, trend tips, makeup master classes, new product 556536. medal and certificate! The Summer Reading Challenge demonstrations and special discounts. There is something is all about keeping up the reading habit over the long for everyone, including family fun and entertainment, with Tue 4 - Sun 9 Jul - Royal Society Summer opportunities for little ones to meet some of their favourite Science Exhibition 2017 (SW1Y) Hold a beating summer break but most of all, about keeping reading fun! robotic heart in your hands, get to grips with the engineering www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk characters and enjoy exciting activities. At Harrow Leisure Centre. www.londonshoppingfestival.com behind bicycle chains that helped team GB’s cycling Olympians and Paralympians get their golds, and learn how we can harness Until Thu 3 Aug – ‘Miami Beach’ at Backyard Sat 1, Thu 6, Sat 8 & Sat 22 Jul - St Luke’s digital technologies to make a difference in the mental health of Cinema (SE1) If you like piña coladas but not getting caught Summer Proms (HA) A series of concerts providing the the iGeneration. 6 days of free science fun for all ages at 6-9 Carlton in the rain, then Backyard Cinema has the perfect summer event. opportunity to relax and socialise with friends in some of the most House Terrace. They’ve got blockbusters, new releases, cult classics and family beautiful and historic settings in Harrow. The concerts include: - Sat www.royalsociety.org/summer-science favourites. Whether it’s a night out with your mates, that special 1 Jul - Little Big Band, picnic in the park at The Arc, Harrow; Thu 6 Jul date or you and the kids, go and soak up the ‘sun’ at the Flamingo - Pop- up Opera presents Domenico Cimarosa Il Matrimonio Segreto Tue 4 – Sun 9 Jul - Great Taste Market at RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show Beach Bar, before settling into the famous giant beanbags with the (The Secret Marriage) in the Great Barn at the Headstone Manor (KT8) Nestled beyond the blossoms, borders and butterflies, sand between your toes. Backyard Cinema can be found at Mercato - Sat 8 Jul - North London Military Wives Choir at there will be a host of award-winning food and drink at three of Metropolitano in Borough. Speech Room - Sat 22 Jul - London Handel Players at the Church of www.backyardcinema.co.uk St Lawrence, Little Stanmore. this year’s historic RHS shows, as the Great Taste Market comes to www.stlukes-hospice.org RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show. Bringing everything from Until Sun 24 Sep - Big Bandstand (WD18) A juice and gin to cheese and chutney, the Great Taste Market will be jam-packed summer season of free live shows. Now that the Sat 1 – Sat 8 Jul - The Radlett Art Society 51st the only food offering at these shows this year and promises to bandstand is back in Cassiobury Park, where it was built more than Summer Exhibition (WD7) The Exhibition, taking place tantalise taste buds. www.rhs.org.uk 100 years ago, you can enjoy a season of great music every Sunday at the Radlett Centre, will include original works of art in all genres, afternoon. There will be everything from jazz to ukulele, and the many for sale ,by the Society members and 2 local colleges. Free Sat 8 Jul - The NightLight Walk (WD18) A family Voyageurs Ambassadors of Music USA will play a series of lunchtime Entrance. friendly 5K lantern walk taking place in Watford’s Cassiobury and afternoon concerts throughout June and July, delivering www.radlett-art-society.co.uk Park. You’ll find many surprises along the route - beautiful light musicians from across America. Take a picnic or just soak up the installations, music, performers and much, much more. Everyone sounds while enjoying the park in all its glory. Sat 1 – Sat 22 Jul - Tales from the Shed at the www.watfordbigevents.co.uk Victoria & Albert Museum (SW7) Vibrant, interactive who takes part will be given a special NightLight lantern to carry theatre shows that are perfect for young children. They are informal, and help to light the way. Whether you’re walking in memory of a Sat 1 Jul - Northwood Craft Market: 10th lively and amazingly engaging as the performers and audience loved one, to have fun with friends and family, or just to be part of Anniversary (HA6) Northwood Craft Market celebrates its share the same space - children are always encouraged to make a the magic, everyone is invited to take part and support your local 10th year on 1 July with a wide variety of quality crafts to browse lot of noise and to make the story happen. Every show is fun, really charity, Peace Hospice Care. and buy, all handmade by local craftspeople. For children there’ll be silly and has plenty of colourful puppets and live songs. Tales from www.peacehospicecare.org.uk hands-on crafts to make something to take home, and refreshments the Shed are excited about taking their amazing shows to different Sat 8 Jul - Hillingdon Shared Lives Summer will be available, including teas, coffees and homemade cakes. venues through 2017, including the V&A Museum on Sat 1 Jul; Sat 8 Fete 2017 (UB8) A family fun day for service users, carers 10am at Northwood Methodist Church Hall Jul ; Sat 15 Jul and Sat 22 Jul. www.northwoodcraftmarket.co.uk www.chickenshed.org.uk/tales-shed-victoria-albert-museum and general public. There will be a variety of stalls, as well as a BBQ, cakes and drinks. At 3 Merrimans on Road in Uxbridge. www.hillingdon.gov.uk Sat 1 Jul – Summer Sizzler School Fair (WD18) Sun 2 Jul - Reveley Lodge Canada Day Friends of Ascot Road Community Free School are holding the Garden Party (WD23) An afternoon of relaxed family Sat 8 Jul - Hayes Carnival 2017 (UB3) This year, Summer Sizzler school Fair on Saturday 1st July, 1-4pm. Fun and entertainment in the exquisite house and grounds of this listed the carnival will again be a celebration of Hayes and its diverse games for all the family, raffle, bouncy castle, food and drink. Victorian country house, Reveley Lodge. Go along for Canadian community. Cheer on local community groups as they make their Entrance: Adults £1, Children free. inspired live music, plus local talents, demos and stalls. Burger [email protected] and Prosecco Bars, home-made cakes, refreshments, children’s way up Botwell Lane to Barra Hall Park, where there will be free entertainer, bouncy castle and a Canada Day Tipi. Join in the activities for all ages during the afternoon. The parade starts at celebration of our ‘Canadian connection’ and commemorate 150 12.30pm from Botwell Green Sports and Leisure Centre, with park years of Canadian Independence! events beginning at 1pm. www.reveleylodge.org www.hillingdontheatres.uk

18 North West London JULY/AUGUST 2017 Summer Guide 2017

Sat 8 Jul - Around the World in 80 Minutes Sun 16 Jul - Party on the Pier (W4) A fun day of boat (UB10) An evening of music from the world of opera and ballet, trips, canoe taster sessions, river dipping, stalls, a BBQ, bar and live including - Bizet, Delibes, Borodin, Tchaikovsky, Puccini, Verdi, Sullivan music. Starts at 11.30am at Chiswick Pier. and Wagner. Presented by Hillingdon Choral Society and Hillingdon www.chiswickpier.org.uk Philharmonic Orchestra at Vyners School. 01895 674223 / 0208 868 7359 [email protected] Wed 19 Jul - Out of Hours Youth Event (SE10) This July, the Queen’s House will open its doors for its first ever out Sat 8 – Sun 9 Jul - Meet Sharpe’s Rifles at of hours youth-only event. Young people aged 13-18 from across Chiltern Open Air Museum (HP8) Be transported London will be invited to have exclusive access to the Queen’s House back in time to the Napoleonic era at Chiltern Open Air Museum. for a spectacular, fun-filled evening featuring live music and canapés Meet Napoleonic soldiers and find out about the life of a Rifleman in the stunning Great Hall, as well as games, activities and an in Wellington’s army; Visit the living history encampment and learn exclusive tour of the galleries when they are closed to the public. how the soldiers’ families lived; Watch a thrilling display of military 6-8.30pm, free entry (booking required). skill as the soldiers skirmish (please note that this will include www.rmg.co.uk gunfire). www.coam.org.uk Fri 21 – Sat 22 Jul - and House: Big Camp (TW7) Swap the busy lights of London for the Sun 9 Jul – Henley Festival Family Sunday warmth of a camp fire as Big Camp Weekend returns to the beautiful Offers an array of world-class performers, children’s Michael Morpugo (RG9) private gardens at Osterley. The weekend will be a camping entertainers, musicians, comedians, storytellers and more. Children - Victoria and Albert Museum London experience filled with games and sports in the evening, fun filled can enjoy edge-of-their-seat performances, engaging workshops, activities in the play trail and a free flow night time trail around the immersive storytelling and mind-boggling quizzes, while parents Long Walk. Then it’s back to the camp for toasted marshmallows, star can join in the fun or relax in the stunning festival grounds on the Sat 22 Jul – Sun 3 Sep - Construction Challenge gazing and songs. A fun filled evening for the whole family! Booking bank of the River Thames. Family Sunday highlights include Matthew (SW3) This summer, discover engineering techniques and have a go Essential. at the construction challenge at the National Army Museum. This is Bourne’s ballet classes and a drumming workshop with over 100 0844 249 1895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk African drums. a construction challenge with a difference where you will transform spaces into different environments to explore how the army adapts www.henley-festival.co.uk Sat 22 Jul - Mr Junkman and the Junk to its surroundings. From the jungle to the North Pole, use a stack of Orchestra Performance & Workshop (HA5) To wooden construction planks to create a structure that won’t topple Thu 13 Jul - Garden Theatre: The Lost World accompany the new temporary exhibition, “Rejuvenated Junk” at A performance of “The Lost World” by the Illyria Theatre over. Drop in anytime between 10:15am – 4pm to take part in a free (SG3) the Heath Robinson Museum, you are invited to go along for some Group at Knebworth House. Take along a low back chair, blankets, and session, no booking is required. recycled musical mayhem. Join Mr Junkman and The Junk Orchestra a picnic; kick your feet up and let Illyria entertain you. Although it’s in www.nam.ac.uk - a wonderful tuned collection of recycled objects rescued from the summer, it’s also in Britain, so be prepared for all weather conditions; urban wasteland. Tale along your own recycling in a bag and build the showstopper is being saved for the end! Recommended for older Sat 22 Jul – Sun 3 Sep - Dusty’s Wildlife an instrument to take home. Items to collect: 2 tins, 2 yogurt pots, 2 children and their families. Rangers at WWT London (SW13) Will you take up [email protected] plastic bottles, 1 biscuit / sweets tub (small and large). the challenge and become a Wildlife Ranger this summer? Grab a www.heathrobinsonmuseum.org net and try pond dipping; join the warden to discover more about Sat 15 Jul - St John’s Summer Community our wildlife; or learn how to use binoculars! When you arrive at the Sat 22 Jul - Grand Family Fete and Party in the Fun Day (WD17) The Friends of St John’s C of E Primary centre you’ll receive your free Wildlife Ranger log book packed with Park (WD3) A Grand Family Fete set in the beautiful grounds School together with St John’s Church will be hosting a Community everything you need for a day of exciting discoveries of the Royal Masonic School for Girls in Rickmansworth. This year Summer Fun Day from 11am till 3pm at St John’s Church Watford www.wwt.org.uk both Middlesex and Hertfordshire Masons will be joining together to WD17 2QQ.There will be fun games & activities for all ages as well put on a fantastic show of craft and fun stalls, and a whole host of as refreshments, cream teas, barbecue, ice cream and free bouncy Sat 22 Jul – Sun 25 Feb - Michael Morpurgo: arena events. Then to top the day off there will be a Party in the Park castle rides. There will also be lots of exciting raffle prizes to be won. A Lifetime in Stories Exhibition (E2) The life and Event with Tribute Act and Bands live on stage. Free entry 12 noon till Admission is free so take along your family, friends and neighbours exceptional writing power of one of Britain’s best-loved storytellers, 4.30pm (fete and stalls) 4.30 til 7.30pm (Party in the Park). and join the fun. Michael Morpurgo, will be celebrated in a new, free exhibition at the www.mgff.co.uk V&A Museum of Childhood this summer. Michael Morpurgo: A Lifetime Sat 15 - Sun 16 Jul - The Little Welly Goes Wild in Stories will look at Morpurgo’s life and writing process as well as Sat 22 – Sun 23 Jul - The Great British Food Event (AL3) In it’s fourth year, The UK’s biggest children’s the lives he has created for some of his remarkable characters. The Festival (SG3) The Great British Food Festival is coming to obstacle course, The Little Welly “Goes Wild” comes to St Albans for Museum is delighted to announce that Joey, the original life-size Knebworth! The event starts at 10am each day, with over 70 artisan the very first time. With 30 big obstacles over a 3km course, kids will West End horse puppet from the National Theatre’s award-winning stalls, craft and gift stalls, tasty hot food vendors, great chef demos, have the time of their life as they run, jump, climb, swing, slide and stage adaptation of War Horse, will be on display at the exhibition. crawl through the wildly popular outdoor adventure series. This one kids cookery and circus workshops, and live music throughout the www.vam.ac.uk/moc of a kind experience has been designed for children aged four and day. over and parents & carers are welcome to join in all the fun. www.greatbritishfoodfestival.com www.thelittlewelly.co.uk continued on page 20 v

North West London JULY/AUGUST 2017 19 Summer Guide 2017

v continued from page 19 from the BBQ station or snack shop. Access by foot only, apart from exotic plant species. There will also be activities, games, interactive blue-badge disabled drivers. A great day out for all the family. experiments, talks and behind-the-scenes tours. Sun 23 Jul - 40 mile Car Treasure Hunt & www.cassioburyfarm.co.uk www.kew.org Summer Family Fun Day (HA6) A must for families seeking adventure and lots of fun! Take part in a fantastic 40-mile Sun 30 Jul - Big Jiveswing Festival (WD18) One Sat 5 Aug – Ickenham Family Fun Day (UB10) car treasure hunt, and on your return enjoy entertainment, music, of the UK’s largest free Jazz Festivals, featuring some of the best A family fun day at Ickenham Scout Hut to raise money for Chase refreshments, assorted stalls & tombolas, plus a Pimms & Prosecco internationally acclaimed Jazz Musicians, Bands and Dancers, Shooting Star charity! There will be plenty for the children to do, tent in the glorious summer sun! At the Michael Sobell Centre from within the UK. It’s a great family day out, with live cabarets, free including bouncy castles, kids arts and crafts, stalls, raffle, face 10am-3pm. dance classes for children and adults, and a vintage photo booth. painting, refreshment, music and lots more! £1 entry for anyone over www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk Refreshments are available to purchase within the park, but you 15 - kids free! 11:30am - 2:30pm. are welcome to take your own picnic. Suitable for all ages. 1-6pm at [email protected] Sun 23 Jul - V&A Museum of Childhood’s Cassiobury Park in Watford. Summer Festival (E2) The Museum’s annual Summer www.watfordbigevents.co.uk Sun 6 Aug - The WatersEdge Annual Charity Festival returns with a programme of live music, dance, walkabout Fun Day (UB8) A fun filled day of live music, stalls, raffle table, acts, designer stalls, food, face paints, henna, rickshaw rides, games Sun 30 Jul - Family Fishing Fun Days (UB8) From bouncy castle, face painter and much more. The chosen charity this and activities for children. Admission Free 9.30am-1.30pm at Little Britain Lake in Cowley, there will be hourly year is Fibromyalgia Action UK (FMA). At the WatersEdge Restaurant & www.vam.ac.uk/moc angling sessions, river dipping, bird box making, face painting and Bar in Cowley from 1-8pm. Mon 24 & Mon 31 Jul, Mon 7 & Mon 14 Aug - a bouncy castle. www.the-watersedge.co.uk www.hillingdon.gov.uk/fishing Little Mermaid and Tales from the Deep (SW7) Sat 5 - Sun 6 Aug – Highwayman (HP8) Take your In this puppet show at the Natural History Museum, find out just how Mon 31 Jul - Holiday to Space with Q Pootle life in your hands as you travel to, and through, the 18th century at amazing a bath can be as Billy Bob’s dream of meeting deep-sea 5 (SE10) Join award-winning children’s author and illustrator Nick Chiltern Open Air Museum! Will you meet the dreaded Highwaymen? creatures comes true. Billy Bob’s tale is followed by a light-hearted Butterworth for a special Q Pootle 5 themed morning for early years Learn about life in the 18th Century and meet costumed re-enactors version of The Little Mermaid with a happy ending. Suitable for at the Royal Observatory. Little ones will get the chance to watch an in and around the Museum’s buildings and grounds. Visit the families with children under seven years old. Visit the Hintze Hall episode of the hit CBeebies series surrounded by stars in London’s living history encampment on Leagrave Common and learn about information desk before the show to book your free ticket. Spaces only Planetarium. The morning will also include an interactive 18th-Century cooking, gun-smithing, tailoring and fabric printing. are limited. While you’re there, make sure you check out the gigantic presentation from Nick, a chance to meet him at a book signing www.coam.org.uk blue whale skeleton! after the show, as well as an astronomical ‘make and take’ where www.nhm.ac.uk visitors can create their own Planet mobile. 10am-12.30pm, advanced Wed 9 Aug – Thu 27 Jul - Fri 1 Sep - booking essential. artsdepot Open 2017 www.rmg.co.uk Thomas Play Experience (WD25) (N12) artsdepot’s annual exhibition is a celebration of art and artists, and the exhibition will feature work by both emerging and established artists. Many of the artworks selected for this diverse and August vibrant exhibition are available to purchase. Wed 2 – Sat 26 Aug - Time Tunnellers (E14) Every www.artsdepot.co.uk Wed-Sat at the Museum of London Docklands, get your hard hats on Fri 28 Jul – Mon 28 Aug - Big Screen on the and your trowels ready! Prepare to go on a journey of discovery and Beach (WD18) Get ready for a summer of fun on the beach! become an archaeologist uncovering clues to London’s hidden past. Enjoy sunny days while the kids build sandcastles, or leisurely Get in on the action as you work through the clues and piece together evenings with a cocktail at the outdoor cinema and real beach on the some of London’s archaeology in this interactive family show. 11am Parade by the pond in Watford. Big Screen on the Beach promises for under 5s and 12pm & 2pm for ages 5+. There are also other blockbuster movies, fun activities , great food, drinks for all ages, and archaeology inspired events taking place throughout the summer lots to do – fairground rides, table tennis and much more. holidays – see their website for further information. www.watfordbigevents.co.uk www.museumoflondon.org.uk/docklands The Thomas Play Experience is a fantastic giant play date Sat 29 – Sun 30 Jul - Medieval England (HP8) An Thu 3 – Sun 6 Aug - BBC Countryfile Live 2017 for your children to go and enjoy! On the day of the event, exciting medieval re-enactment event that is part of the Festival of (OX20) Countryfile Live is returning for its second year, bringing there will be lots of movable trains-giant train tracks set Archaeology at Chiltern Open Air Museum. Visit the encampment, the very best of the Great British countryside to the picturesque up, construction Lego/Duplo for children to build and small meet costumed re-enactors and enjoy the living history as you learn grounds of Blenheim Palace. Around every corner you will find world dolls house set, ideal for role play. Something for about life in medieval England. Meet the soldiers, longbowmen, activities for children of all ages - they will be free to climb trees, Everyone. This is an ideal play event that will keep your crossbowmen, men-at-arms and mighty armoured knights, try snuggle guinea pigs, pet pigs, splash in canoes and more. The on a knight’s helmet and feel the weight of a broadsword for an children occupied & provides lots of space for children to event includes four days of live arena shows, hands-on activities, play and explore. At Leavesden Community Hub. All these unforgettable glimpse into medieval life. animal displays, debates, food, drink and shopping from over 500 events run in the HALF TERM and all the school holidays! www.coam.org.uk independent retailers and lifestyle brands. www.thomasplayexperience.co.uk Sat 29 Jul, Sat 5, Thu 10, Sat 19 & Wed 23 Aug - www.countryfilelive.com Cassiobury Farm Open Day (WD3) Go and visit the Fri 4 – Sun 6 Aug - Kew Science Festival 2017 rare breeds farm and the private collection of exotics. Visit the kitchen (TW9) Kew’s world-leading scientists bring their latest work out garden and buy local produce at the farm shop. Lots of fun for the of the labs and into the Gardens, where you can see a handheld kids including a bouncy castle, face painting, fishing, crazy golf, mini- DNA sequencer in action, discover microscopic gardens and identify tractor rides and animal encounters. Enjoy lunch on the meadow Paediatric First Aid Courses

Sat 8 July, Sun 6 August, Sat 2 Sept - Harrow on the Hill Suitable for Ofsted Registration. Includes some home study. Certificate valid for 3 years Cost = £85 Contact Margaret at [email protected] or on 07814 191 395 for bookings Other dates available

Open Day / Fun Day - Saturday 8th July 11am to 2.30pm! Special Open Day offers available!

✷Funding available 15 & 30 hours subject to T’s & C’s

20 North West London JULY/AUGUST 2017 Summer Guide 2017

Fri 11 Aug - Filmsmeet presents: Despicable Me access. Light refreshments will be available all day and there will also Chat with the costumed re-enactors walking around the Museum 3 (WD3) A family friendly film showing at Watersmeet Theatre be plants, second-hand books and greeting cards on sale. 11am-4pm. to find out what was happening in the year 1585. Become the jury in Rickmansworth. In the latest sequel, Gru meets his twin brother No dogs. and participate in the court cases. The fate of the accused is in your Dru he never knew about. Showings at 11am, 2pm & 5pm. Booking www.maplelodge.org hands! in advance is always recommended to avoid disappointment on www.coam.org.uk the day. Sun 16 Aug - Uxbridge AutoShow (UB8) The www.watersmeet.co.uk premier motor show in West London, with nearly 2,000 cars on Fri 25 Aug - Cassiobury Bat Walk (WD18) As the display, an arena with entertainment, live music from local bands, sun goes down in Cassiobury Park, why not go and join us in a Sat 12 – Sun 13 Aug - Meet the ‘Ragged trade stands selling everything from tools to model cars, a children’s search for bats! See real bats and learn more about them during this Victorians’ (HP8) A unique opportunity to learn about the less fun area and catering for all tastes. Open from 10am - 6pm at fascinating nocturnal experience. Bat detectors will be on hand to savoury aspects of Victorian life in a fun, family-friendly environment Hillingdon House Farm. help you listen to the bats’ calls and identify different species. Easy at the Chiltern Open Air Museum. Meet costumed re-enactors, look www.uxbridgeautoshow.com walking. Take a torch if you have one! Free but booking is essential. out for shady characters including the rat catcher and his rats; street 01923 278590 [email protected] urchins; doctor (with real leeches!), rogues and vagabonds. A great Thu 17 Aug - Garden Theatre: The Emperors event for kids who are learning about the Victorians at school. New Clothes (SG3) Go along to Knebworth House and enjoy Sun 27 - Mon 28 Aug - Tudor Times (HP8) Meet www.coam.org.uk the cautionary tale of “The Emperor’s New Clothes”, performed costumed re-enactors as they bring Chiltern Open Air Museum’s by the multi-award winning theatre group, Illyria. Beneath the historic buildings to life. Learn how clothes and garments were made Sat 12 – Sun 13 Aug - Steam, Crafts & Country Emperor’s new fancy clothes lies something more… meaningful; with wool during the Tudor period and watch fleece preparation Set in the beautiful grounds of Knebworth House Life Fair (SG3) a humongous personal human weakness satirised mercilessly; with a Tudor Great Wheel! Explore the encampment to admire the Steam & Country Crafts Fair has something for everyone; Steam & and a capacity for loving is the highest value. There are larger- reproduction Tudor weaponry and learn about bullet-making , other Vintage Vehicles, children’s entertainers and circus workshops, than-life characters and lots to join in with. Take along a low back match-cord production and making a ‘jack of plate’. plus rustic crafts, gifts and food marquees and trade stands. There chair, blankets, and a picnic; kick your feet up and enjoy the show. www.coam.org.uk will also be a Companion Dog Show on Sunday, with all proceeds Recommended for children aged 5+ and their families. from going to Marie Curie Cancer Care. www.knebworthhouse.com Mon 28 Aug - Harrow in LEAF Show (HA2) www.knebworthhouse.com Harrow in LEAF will be presenting their 13th Annual Horticultural & Sat 19 Aug - NSPCC Messathon (WD6) Messathon Craft Show together with the Harrow Beekeepers at Harrow Museum Sat 12 – Sat 26 Aug - Pinner Sketch Club is a 2.5km obstacle course taking place at Aldenham Country Park. and Heritage Centre. This year’s show will be an integral part of the An affordable art exhibition Summer Exhibition (HA5) Aimed at families with children aged 4+, your team of Messathletes second Headstone Village Show, taking place from 12 noon until 5pm. of over 200 paintings and other works of art by local amateur and (young and old) will support each other as you splatter through mud, www.harrowinleaf.org.uk professional artists. Free entry, open from 10am - 6pm at Pinner swoosh along the water slide and scramble over hay bales. And the Parish church hall. best bit is that every penny you raise - through your registration fee www.pinnersketchclub.co.uk and sponsorship - will help the NSPCC be there for children. www.nspcc.org.uk [email protected] For many more local Sun 13 Aug - Maple Lodge Nature Reserve: events and diary Discovery Day (WD3) This private reserve will be open to Sat 19 – Sun 20 Aug - Be the judge in a Tudor the general public for its annual Discovery Day. Throughout the day Court! (HP8) The year is 1585 and a Justice of the Peace dates for the whole guided tours of the reserve will be organised by members of the commissioned by Queen Elizabeth I has arrived to hold court. Go Maple Lodge Conservation Society. There are two lakes and many family visit to Chiltern Open Air Museum, learn about the intrigues of village www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk hides to explore around the reserve, some of which have wheelchair life and join in to help decide the rights and wrongs of each case.

North West London JULY/AUGUST 2017 21 Local Clubs and Classes Directory Directory editor: Anna Blackshaw

at improving general ball skills, balance, agility and coordination. Currently classes in Sign Language Watford, Rickmansworth, Bushey and Stanmore.  For more information contact PARTIES [email protected] LEGO® Engineering Clubs, Parties And Workshops. E2 Young Engineers programmes Sing and Sign (Various) Fun classes combining the benefts of baby signing with inspire young people to be innovative critical thinkers and problem solvers by music to develop language, memory and attention skills. Babies 6-30 months. Bushey, SportsKids Academy (WD3 & HA3) Multi-sports Activities for children. All students are exploring aspects of engineering and science building working models using our Rickmansworth, Stanmore and Harrow.  www.singandsign.com taught in small groups of similar age and ability. Mini academy ages 4-6 years (an hour custom made kits. Programmes available for ages 4 – 99! Build self-confdence, and a half) Main Academy 6-16 years (3 hours). (Previously known as SportsCoach.) resilience and creativity through play! Held at JFS The Mall Kenton and Rickmansworth Masonic School Rickmansworth  www.young-engineers.co.uk Central and West London:  07522 602 122 ACTIVITY CENTRES 01923255099  [email protected] www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk  [email protected] Hertfordshire & Middlesex: Aspire National Training Centre, Kidz Zone activities (HA7) Wide range of activities White Crane Karate School (HA8) Karate classes for ages 4 years and above held in  07454 363 766 [email protected]  07565 195 895 available from 6mths to 12yrs.  020 8954 5759 Edgware, East Finchley, Finchley Central , Stanmore and Harrow Weald. Adult classes  [email protected][email protected]. Wood Lane, Stanmore, HA7 4AP in Barnet.  Sheena 0787 550 1674  [email protected] www. Silly Millie the Clown - parties for 3 - 9 year olds. Funny magic show, puppet’s, party Gambado Watford (WD25) Giant play-frame, dodgems, climbing wall, and parties. karatewhitecrane.co.uk games, silly songs & balloon animals. 020 7823 8329 or 07939 239 397 www.  01923 892140  www.gambado.com Y Active (HA2) New Harrow classes booking now for children and adults at the YMCA. sillymillietheclown.co.uk JAMtots (HA4) An Interactive daytime activity centre for parents with babies and A beautiful studio with free parking and a play garden. Baby, Ballet, Gym, Soft Play The Windmill Studio Centre (HA4) Fun for kids, hassle-free for parents, birthday toddlers. All pay as you go with a variety of sessions that include Parent & Toddler and Classes from £4.40.  020 8832 1576  [email protected] www. parties at The Windmill Studio Centre, Ruislip Manor, for 1-10 years boys & girls Groups, Musical Tots, Gym Tots and one off events plus special visits from Jimmy the ymcawestlondon.org include invitations, party leader & assistant(s), freshly prepared food, decorations, JAMtots Bear.  01895 624755  thewindmillstudio.com music, lights, games, dancing, props and prizes. Optional extras - adult refreshments, Rumble Tumble Harrow (HA1) Harrow’s only indoor supervised soft play children’s face-painting and party bags. Lots of themes from Princesses and Super Heroes to play group. Why not take advantage of the Drop & Shop facility and have a stress free Massage & Yoga Monsters, Trolls, Makers and Mad Hatters! Modern & clean venue.  01895 624755 shop, or book a special event in the Party Room available for all occasions. You can Positiv-Life Fitness (various) Specialise in Small group Personal training Pregnancy  [email protected] www.thewindmillstudio.com even relax and have a snack in the restaurant while your little ones are playing. Pilates, Mum & Baby Yoga & Postnatal Pilates, Baby Massage & Fitness for Mums  0208 427 8847  [email protected] www.rumble-tumble.com for those in & near Eastcote, Ruislip, Harrow, Pinner, Northwood, Uxbridge, & Maida The Windmill Studio Centre (HA4) An exciting activity centre that has just about Vale West London. [email protected]  07974 062 973  www. everything to offer for all ages from babies to adults.  01895 624755 positivlifeftness.com CLASSES FOR GROWN-UPS  www.thewindmillstudio.com www.facebook.com/positivlifeftness > Twitter @PositivLifeFit Adult Art Classes in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, painting and mixed media art classes YogaBugs (various) A magical, fun and interactive story-style adventures for for adults. Weekday morning studio sessions in a relaxed, supportive environment. children where they learn yoga techniques. Yoga improves flexibility, posture and  020 8954 2897 or 07500 006 099  [email protected] MUSIC & MOVEMENT concentration and also helps in relaxation. Fun and engaging classes for children from Capital Connection Chorus - female A capella harmony (HA4) Calling women who love walking to 12 years of age.  Contact details: 08458997168. [email protected]. to sing! Particularly need lower range voices at present. Perfect way to meet new friends Beat Building Vibrant & energising music classes using African drums and funky www.yogabugs.com percussion. Great songs and games get the imagination glowing & introduce the and sing with a great group of women. Every Wednesday night 7.45pm to 10.30pm at YogaBelliesKidz Family yoga (HA & WD) Share the mental and physical benefts of Ruislip Community Centre.  www.capitalconnection.org.uk concepts of beats, rhythmic patterns, time keeping & also encourage sharing, taking turns and listening. A wonderful introduction to music and rhythm, beat Building is yoga...peace of mind, relaxation and increases body strength and flexibility! Eggless Cake Delights (HA) offer eggless baking, cake decorating and dessert brilliantly fun!  07721 623 171  [email protected] www.beatbuilding.co.uk YogaBellies Mum and Baby yoga: Monday afternoons (birth to 10 months) classes for kids & adults in Harrow. Classes are held in small groups in hands on and www.facebook.com/beatbuilding Demo format, during weekdays, weekends and during term holidays in a friendly YogaBellies Little Angels pre-school yoga (18 months to 4 years): environment.  07737847405 or [email protected]. Colourstrings (various) Music Kindergartens for babies, toddler, and children up to 6 Sat mornings, Bushey  www.egglesscakedelights.com years old with small, age-related classes. Classes are enjoyable and inspire learning, developing inner hearing and core music skills. New class starting in Hendon in Jan YogaBelliesKidz family yoga (children 4-12 years): Sat & Sun mornings, Bushey The Veggie Kitchen (HA7) Pure vegetarian cookery courses in Stanmore. Specialising 2017.  020 8444 9435  www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk NEW: YogaBelles Mum and Daughter (13-16 years): Weekday evening, Bushey in Indian cuisines, as well as Thai, Chinese and many more, students learn to cook nutritious and delicious vegetarian meals in a friendly and homely environment. Mini Maniacs (Various) Multi award nominated classes that are flled with music,  07840 904887  [email protected]; www.yogabellies.co.uk/members/anjli Group and one-to-one hands on courses.  0208 204 1906 dance and exploration – plus plenty of excitement. Focusing on a range of engaging  www.veggiekitchen.co.uk activities, the classes take you up tempo then down tempo, leaving parent and child feeling like they’ve been on a tummy tickling roller coaster!  Contact hilda@ Swimmimg (various) Beautiful water based yoga classes for women Yogabellies Aquabellies mini-maniacs.com or visit Aqua Style (WD23/HA6) teaches children, babies and adults to swim without aids in throughout their lives. The sessions incorporate traditional yoga asanas (postures) www.mini-maniacs.com adapted for water, water relaxations and positive life building experiences for women, small groups, or One to One. Good facilities and plenty of parking. They run Intensive mothers and mothers to be. Monkey Music (Various) Award-winning Monkey Music introduces babies and young ‘Fast Track’ Courses during School Holidays and weekly ‘Term Time’ courses.  www. There are AquaBellies - Aquanatal yoga for pregnancy, AquaMamas, post natal and children to music in a way they understand and enjoy - and is brilliant fun for children aquaswim.org  07925954144. AquaBelles aqua yoga classes suitable for all women. NEW YogaBelles: yoga designed and adults too! The unique four-stage curriculum, written by classically trained Aqua Vie Swimming based on effortless swimming and true water confdence. Fun for a unique women’s body.  07840 904887 musicians, ensures that classes are a “good ft” for pre-schoolers. Parents across the classes for babies & Children from 6wks+ to all ages including Adults. New Tues, Wed & UK have voted it as “Best National Toddler Development Activity” and “Best National  [email protected] www.yogabellies.co.uk/members/anjli Sunday morning classes in Bushey WD23. Tel 01923 245 772 www.aqua-vie.com or email Pre-school Development Activity”. Age guides are as follows: Rock’n’ Roll from 3m, [email protected] Heigh Ho from 1yr, Jiggety Jig from 2rs, Ding Dong 3- 5yrs. Classes are open 6 days First Aid a week, at venues in Uxbridge, Eastcote, Northwood, Harrow and Stanmore.  020 Aweswim (various) Aweswim offers courses for people of all ages and abilities, ranging 8427 6595 www.monkeymusic.com from parent and baby groups through to adults. MCS Training (HA1, HA5) Paediatric First Aid Course. Accepted for full and voluntary   www.aweswim.co.uk  01923 537070 Ofsted Registration. Certifcate valid for 3 yrs. Push & Glide Swimming School (WD18, WD23, HA6) Push & Glide Swimming School  Margaret 07814 191 395  [email protected] provide extremely high standards of swimming instruction, they pride themselves on SPORTS AND EXERCISE their friendly, dynamic teaching environment. They provide fully qualifed instructors who are committed to maintaining and improving an excellent quality of teaching along Capoeira Academy UK (HA) Classes in Stanmore providing outstanding and fun classes with low ratio swimming lessons in a safe environment for children aged 3.5 years LANGUAGES AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT for children aged 4+years. A unique blend of martial arts, dance, acrobatics and music; plus. All abilities are catered for, from gaining water confdence through to competition capoeira develops skills for life with inspiring and nurturing teachers.  07841342874 training, following the ASA progressive scheme awards. Baby Lab (WC1E) Have fun for free with your baby making discoveries about brain  [email protected] www.capoeiracademyuk.com development at the Centre for Brain & Cognitive Development. Birkbeck College, Malet  07749554405  www.pushandglide.co.uk St, London. Travel expenses refunded. 020 7631 6258  www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk Enjoy-a-Ball classes (Various) Sports coaching for 3-9 yr olds in a fun, positive and non-competitive environment. Ten ball sports for the perfect introduction to sport. Splashtime Swim School (various) Swimming lessons, Holiday clubs and After school Club Petit Pierrot (NW3/8/11) French Parent & Toddler group for 2-4 year olds in Physi-ball classes - Ball skills and core skills for toddlers aged 18mths to 3 yrs. Classes club held at Quainton Hall School. Swimming lessons also held at Merchant Taylors Hampstead at the JW3 Centre (NW3). Mon from 10.30am-11.15am and will be a multi- run in Mill HIll, Finchley, Golders Green and Muswell Hill. Call 08452 26 26 94 to book a School and Uxendon Manor Primary School.  Splashtime Swim School sensory session, totally in French, with many fun and varied activities including songs, trial session. Enjoy-a-Ball parties are for super-active 3 - 9 year olds. They are full of  07903126486 Children’s Activities 07794078452 rhymes, music, arts & crafts, dances and movement, language games, and puppets… high energy games loved by boys and girls alike!  08452 26 26 94 all great fun! There will also be new fun French after-school classes on Weds for 4 to  www.enjoy-a-ball.com [email protected] 6 yr olds and 6 to 8 yr olds in St Anthony’s School for Girls, Hampstead (NW11). Multi- sensory sessions with arts & crafts and music & movement also take place in St Mark’s Everyone Active (various) Swimming lessons, sports clubs and activities for all ages. THEATRE AND PERFORMING ARTS See our ad on page 19 for more details.  www.everyoneactive.com Church Hall, St John’s Wood/Maida Vale (NW8) on Thurs, Fri and Sat.  020 7385 5565 Beverley School of Performing Arts (HA8) After school & Saturday classes in Ballet, Tap,  [email protected] www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk Field End Flyers Saturday Morning Community Cycle Club (HA5) Saturday in Term Modern, Jazz, Street, Singing & Drama for boys and girls aged 3-18years. ISTD and LAMDA Gujarati Masti Maja classes by Sansaar (HA5) Fun and interactive Gujarati music, Time, Field End Rd for ages 5–11 yrs. Join the friendly team of British Cycling Coaches examinations to advanced level.  07974 750 224  www.beverleydance.co.uk. song and dance classes for 3 to 6 year olds in North London, to help your child speak at 9.45am, and learn fun skills, race on the amazing fully enclosed Cycle Track, make new friends and enjoy a whole morning of fun till 12.30 - (refreshment break half JAM2000 Performing Arts & Agency (HA4) Truly like no other, with classes available Gujarati confdently. Saturday morning at 9am and 10am at St Lawrence Church in from 2.5 years – adults, male and female plus an incredibly busy agency that is always Eastcote, Pinner.  www.sansaar.org way through). All you need is your own bike, helmet, gloves and water bottle and a shower proof jacket. looking for new recruits!  01895 624755 www.jam2000.co.uk Little Stars Baby Club (HA9) A fun and friendly baby club where new mums with  Tracey [email protected] babies from birth to sitting can relax and meet new friends whilst babies play and Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools (Various) run weekend dance, drama and singing explore with a range of lovely sensory toys. Every Friday 9:30-11:15am at Powell Suites Little Kickers (Various) Enabling children aged 18mths up to their 7th birthday to classes for children aged 3 - 18 years. Children are divided into age appropriate groups @ Chalkhill Community Centre, The Welford Centre, 113 Chalkhill Road, Wembley Park develop their coordination, balance and agility through football activity classes Mill and work towards shows and presentations. Focus on having fun and building Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet  020 confdence through engaging performing arts activities. Two week trial available.  HA9 9FX. £2.00 020 8447 4530 www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk  0208 385 1836  [email protected] 8201 1084  [email protected]. Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow  (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford  0208 123 9346 Italia Conti Ruislip (HA5) A Performing Arts School for students of 2yrs to adult, based Portuguese for Children (NW6) Every Saturday, from 10am to 12pm, the International  [email protected] or Harrow (HA3) Bushey and North Wembley at Haydon School in Eastcote. ISTD Ballet, Tap and Modern, Street dance, Break Dance, Gospel Church on Belsize Road will be open for children from 4 to 12 years of Brazilian-  0208 422 0676  [email protected] www.littlekickers.co.uk English parents to enrol. Lessons will include how to read and write and Brazilian Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Singing, LAMDA, acting, Gymnastics, Lyrical and much more! culture, including music. Lessons run from September and February 2016 and are free. Rugbytots - the UK’s frst rugby based play programme for 2-7 year olds. Focusing on Shows twice a year at Harrow Arts Centre. Telephone or email for a FREE TRIAL 0  20 8838 8747  [email protected] www.italiacontiruislip.co.uk  [email protected] developing your child’s motor skills and confdence with fun-flled programmes aimed

22 North West London JULY/AUGUST 2017 Local Clubs and Classes Directory

Nichola Rees Youth Academy – NYRA (WD) An acting and performing arts academy Artzania Art and Craft Activity Club (HA) The Harrow Woodcraft Folk (HA) Elfn group for children, 6 to 9 year olds are based in Watford, for young people aged 4-18 years.Weekly workshops on Thursdays reopening their group after the Summer holidays on Tuesday 6th September in and Saturdays, and an annual performance. A new and exciting Arts and Crafts activity club for Central Harrow. Parents wishing to join their children should contact the District  07702 965 851  [email protected] www.nrya.co.uk children ages 1-11 yrs open during term time and Secretary; John Woolf:  020 8428 2409 or  e-mail: [email protected]. Perform weekly drama, dance and singing (Various) A unique mix of drama, dance and holidays. They offer and Mother Toddler Group uk For more information regarding Harrow Woodcraft Folk visit their web site: www. singing specially formulated to bring out every child’s true potential. Small classes and art club (aged 1-4 yrs) and an After-school/ Holiday Club (ages 5-11yrs) harrowwoodcraftfolk.btck.co.uk/HowtoJoin lots of individual attention. No-obligation FREE trial for newcomers. From April, Perform Contact to book your place:  Keshma 07419343105 High Fliers (HA4 & WD7) 11+ tuition for Independent and Grammar school entrance. 4-7s will be saddling up and going on a Wild West adventure to fnd the Horse with the Run by highly experienced and qualifed prep school teachers offering a unique and Golden Mane. The 7-12s will be zooming off on a fun-flled outer space adventure with  [email protected] tailored tutoring service.  07949 297070/07534 020868  [email protected] Robinson Crusoe in a space-age version of the castaway survival classic. For ages 4-12. www.high-fliers.org.uk The Summer term runs until 21st July and starts up again 2nd September 2017. Blank Canvas Art Club (HA4) Let them explore their creative side! Imaginative Art Holidaytime After school club is part of Activetime Children’s Activities limited (HA1)  020 7255 9120 /  [email protected] www.perform.org.uk/try classes delivering art techniques in a fun environment. Infant Classes Mon 3.30, Tues 5, Pick’s up from four local school’s at the end of the school day, then take the children Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts (HA1, HA4, HA7, WD3) Performance based theatre school Thurs 3.45pm. Juniors classes Tues 5, Wed 4.30, Thurs 5pm NEW 11+ classes Wed 5.45pm back to the club for a snack and the daily activity. They are open Monday- Friday 3pm- with venues based in Harrow, Rickmansworth, Ruislip and Stanmore where children aged & Preschool “stay and create” classes for ages 2-4 and an adult, Wed 1.30-2.15pm & 6pm  Nicole 07794078452  [email protected] www.activetime.co.uk more coming soon.  07773 819 603, [email protected] www. 3-21 attend weekly classes in preparation for full scale Musical Theatre productions. Integratedbrain - Improve Co-ordination for learning! (UB5) Activities to help those  01923 437693  www.SharpeAcademy.co.uk Facebook.com/BlankCanvasArtClub Luchi and Ota (HA8) Sewing classes and course for kids and adults. Also hold one-off with poor co-ordination, dyspraxia, dyslexia or fne motor diffculties. Small groups Stagecoach (Various) Training in three disciplines: drama, dance and singing. Great for drop-in sessions and sewing and craft parties. of 4/5 children working to develop better all-round motor integration.  Usha Patel building confdence, making new friends and beginning to hone talent and enthusiasm  020 8958 7714  [email protected] www.luchiandota.com 07766 837 616  [email protected] www.integratedbrain.co.uk for performing, or being coaxed out of their shell by having fun!  Harrow 020 3504 0100 Harrow on the Hill & 01923 248 294 Stanmore & Harrow Weald 020 Messmakers! (HA5) A gentle and fun introduction to creative arts for the very young JKEducate Educational Consultancy and Tutoring (various) Tutoring, Assessments, and their families, with lots of mess and none of the tidying up! Exploring different Consultancy for children 5-18yrs. 7+, 11+, GCSE, A Levels, SEN, EFL.  020 3488 0754 3504 2154 Watford 01727 768 738 Queen’s Park 020 7723 5861 Northwood 01442 263 599 www.jkeducate.co.uk  www.stagecoach.co.uk materials and textures each week. Ages under 5, come dressed for mess!  0208 416  8989  www.harrowarts.com/family Knowledge Above Standard (HA7) Maths, English, Verbal and non-verbal reasoning, Wordworks Studio (HA5) Individual and group classes in Speech, Drama and 7+, 11+ 13+ exam preparation.  07985 588 085 Communication Skills for children 3-18yrs.  [email protected] Stitch Club (HA5) Stitch and Sketch Club for children and teens. Start with simple hand sewing then developing sewing machine and design techniques to design and  www.knowledgeabovestandard.co.uk create your own items. Saturday Sketch Club develops looking and drawing skills and Kumon (various) Unique maths and English study programmes which support children Dance confdence. Also parties and one-off workshops. Adults’ weekly Dressmaking sessions by building and developing a solid foundation in their literacy and/or numeracy skills. Bollywood n Beyond (HA) and occaisional Beginners workshops. W: stitch.club E: [email protected]  www.kumon.co.uk Learn Bollywood dance with The Veggie Kitchen (HA7) offers pure vegetarian cookery courses in Stanmore. Leaders are Readers (HA5 & N21) Offer specialist experience and accelerated learning Bhavini. Specialising in Indian cuisines, as well as Thai, Chinese and many more, students in their award winning Saturday School, and also run popular Summer and Winter Weekly classes for Kids/ Teens/Adults will learn to cook nutritious and delicious vegetarian meals in a friendly and homely Schools during holidays. 2 hours spent per subject, including English, Maths, Learning environment. Offer group and one-to-one hands on courses.  0208 204 1906  to Read and Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. All programmes are for ages 3.5 to 11 • Northwood • Stanmore • Hatchend www.veggiekitchen.co.uk and the success rate is 90% for helping pupils prepare to sit entrance exams, including Bollywood Zumba, Masterclasses, School Workshop and Personalised 4+, 5+, 7+ and 11+. Childcare vouchers accepted.  01992 651 300 choreography for special events and Weddings.  www.leadersarereaders.co.uk  For more information Contact Bhavini on 07864759786 OR AFTER SCHOOL CLUB Little Big Leaders Ltd (HA7) Supplementary School for students aged three and a half [email protected]. to 11 years undertaking Reading, Maths and English.  020 8213 3100 07949 925374 www.bollywoodnbeyond.com /EDUCATION SUPPORT The London Tutors (Various) Specialises in providing 11 Plus classroom based learning, Brownies and Guides (Various) Rainbow, Brownie and Guide Units exist across the area to yr 4 and 5 students. Prepare students to sit exams for Grammar and private schools.  For a call back email your name and number to [email protected] Futunity UK Academy of Sport and Dance (UB8) Purpose built facility in Uxbridge City which provide fun activities for girls aged from 5 onwards. Centre. Classes for children ages 2 all the way through to adults. Hip Hop, Street Dance,  www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested or  Peggy Brand 020 8205 7597 Mastermind Tuition (HA) Specialise in 11+, Maths, English, Verbal & Non-verbal Gymnastics, Free Running, Breakdancing, Ballet (RAD), Tap (ISTD), Contemporary, reasoning (including CEM-style) and Grammar & Independent school preparation. Champs Learning (HA1) A very structured tuition course for English, Maths, Science Classes in Harrow & Northwood (free parking on site) Visit the website or call Cheerleading, Pole Fitness, and Children’s Parties. Classes range from beginners to and 11+ exams. Courses run at Harrow College.  020 3004 9007 www. advanced/competitive levels. Three fully equipped studios available for hire, at very champslearning.co.uk  07478 878672 to book a FREE TRIAL competitive rates. Futunity UK also supply dance (all genres) and gymnastics teachers  www.mastermindtuition.com [email protected] Click IT! Computer lessons for Children (HA2) Fun, exciting and educational weekly into schools to run after/before school extra curricular sessions, and PE and PPA cover computer lessons for children aged 2-5. Classes held at nursery schools all over North Math’scool Award-winning Maths Tuition plus out-of-lesson homework support. lessons. 01895 251224  [email protected] www.futunityuk.com West London. Have fun learning with technology: mouse and keyboard skills and devices  0333 12 33 445  www.mathscool.com Instep School of Ballet (HA/WD) Trains students of all ages and abilities in ballet, tap, including graphic tablets, trackpads and digital microscopes. Every lesson is designed to The Northwood Speech and Language Therapy Practice (HA6) An independent service pointe and performance. The school offers examinations with the Royal Academy of complement the EYFS curriculum. Free trials available. covering a range of children’s communication diffculties.  01923 824 074  www. Dance (ballet) and the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance (tap), and all teachers  020 8434 7111.  www.clickit-kids.co.uk. [email protected]. northwoodpractice.co.uk are fully qualifed and registered with the RAD and ISTD. They produce a summer DiscoG Coding Boot Camp (various) Weekly Coding Programme teaches Primary Number Works ‘n’ Words (Eastcote) After school Maths and English tuition classes show each year. Classes in Harrow, and Bushey.  07814 793 772  and Secondary School children the basics of coding. Using the Python Programming which target identifed needs to improve achievement levels. They set goals for your [email protected] Language and the Raspberry Pi 3 your child will create fun and engaging gadgets child, monitor progress and provide regular progress reports. Cater for all levels from www.instepschoolofballet.co.uk that spring to life with lights and sensors, and prototyping devices that will ‘amaze Reception to Year 11. Karan’s Bollywood Masterclass (Various) Learn a fusion of Bollywood, Bhangra, Hip-Hop and inspire’. Tailored courses written to support the National Curriculum for GCSE  www.numberworksnwords.co.uk and Salsa at our weekly classes. Open to Toddlers, Children & Adults the courses are Fun, and A Levels. Adult courses are also available.  Gerard on 07767 300940  info@ Pinner Tuition Centre (Pinner) After school and Sat tuition for Reception to Year 11 Motivating and KBM offers many performance opportunities. All dance levels welcome. discogcodingacademy.com www.discogcodingacademy.com by fully qualifed teachers. Tuition in Maths, Reading, Spelling, Writing, SATS, 11+ and Contact our friendly team for your class registration. GCSE. FREE ASSESSMENT. Ofsted Registered. www.pinnertuitioncentre.co.uk  0208 423 9543/07944 457 984  www.kspark.co.uk Elisa’s Tutorial School (HA8) Experienced private tutor in Edgware. Programmes for  children from 2.5-16 yrs. If your child needs a little extra help, in English maths verbal (NW6) - 3.30pm to Lorna Clark School of Dance (Various) Established for over 40 years, training students and non-verbal 4+ 7+ and 11+ preparing for entrance exams or you just want to give The Play Shelter After School Club at Malorees Infant & Junior Schools from 3-18 yrs - Ballet, Tap, Modern, Classical Greek and National. Royal Academy of 6pm term time. Play schemes available out of term-time. them every advantage, Elisa can help. 99% success rate.  020 8958 1192 07956868119  0207 407 6744.  [email protected] www.theplayshelter.co.uk Dance Examinations are taken in Ballet from Primary to Advanced Level and ISTD exams  www.childrensstories.net www.kidslearnfast.co.uk in all other Genre to the same standard. All classes held in South Harrow/Eastcote. Book The Rainbow Club (various) Specialise in preparing for 3+, 4+ and 5+ entrance exams. a free No Obligation Lesson with this advert. Excel Academy (HA3) Experienced tuition in preparation for SATs, 11+, 13+, GCSEs, AS & 07850 045 471  [email protected] 0208 8662105 or 01923 285380. www.lornaclarkschoolofdance.co.uk A2 levels. Small group sizes, all aspects of the National Curriculum covered.    www.excelacademy.org.uk Raviv Practice London (UB5) Catch up reading course for children on the SEN register. RISE Studios (WD) Dance and Performing Arts Schools in Watford and Rickmansworth. Reading courses are flexible with home based learning (via computer) monitored Classes in ballet, modern, tap, street dance, hip-hop, drama, singing, LAMDA and Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to 5-14 year olds of all daily.  Usha Patel on 07766 837 616 Performing Arts. 01923 218626 www.rise-studios.com abilities. Visit their website to fnd your nearest centre or call to book a free trial class!  [email protected] (registered therapist)    www.explorelearning.co.uk. The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance (HA7) Ballet classes to develop poise, technique Simple Studies (NW4) Offer expert English and Maths tuition for 4-16 year olds and expression through dance, for boys and girls aged 3-16 years with Royal Academy of Field End Flyers Saturday Morning Community Cycle Club (HA5) Every Saturday in at their cosy centre in Hendon. They specialise in 11+ entrance exams. Quote Dance examinations  020 8950 2457 Term Time adjacent to Field End Junior School, Field End Road, Eastcote, Middx HA4, ‘Familiesmagazine’ and get 10% off your frst lesson! for all children aged 5 – 11 years. Join the friendly team of British Cycling Coaches at 07793 498195 www.simplestudies.co.uk  www vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk 9.15am prompt, and learn fun skills, race on the amazing fully enclosed Cycle Track,   make new friends (for both children and parents) and enjoy a whole morning of Susan Daughtrey Education (SDE) SW Herts courses are based on more than 25 years fun till 11.30 - (refreshment break half way through). All you need is your own bike, experience preparing students for 11+ tests. All courses have been personally written ARTS AND CRAFTS helmet, gloves and water bottle and a shower proof jacket.  Contact Tracey at by Susan Daughtrey M.Ed, author of the market leading verbal reasoning Technique Art Classes for Kids (and Adults) in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, painting and mixed [email protected] and Practice series. Every year since 1987, over 90 per cent. of the students on the courses have achieved success. 020 7683 0734 www.sdeuk.org/swherts media art classes for children and adults. On-going, small groups Monday–Thursday First Class Learning (Various) Structured yet flexible programme, designed for children   afternoons and Saturday mornings in Term Time for children from Year 1 up. Weekday studying the UK National Curriculum. Tailored to a child’s learning needs & style. Find Stanmore Tutor Stanmore Tutor prepares students thoroughly for the top selective morning studio sessions for adults in a relaxed, supportive environment.  020 8954 out more about this structured approach to learning, by contacting one of your local schools ensuring that they reach their maximum potential for that all important place. 2897 or 07500 006 099  [email protected] Centre managers.  www.frstclasslearning.co.uk  020 3538 2437 Art and Craft Club (HA5) Term time, Mon 4.30-5.30, Sat 10-11am or 11-12pm at Harrow Fleet Tutors (Various) Professional one to one tutoring. Fleet Tutors has been Type IT! - Touch Typing Lessons for Children (HA2) Learn to touch type! Weekly Arts Centre. New activities introduced every term; drawing, painting, printmaking, matching the right tutor to the education needs of students across the UK since 1977. lessons and intensive holiday courses for children from age 8-18. Highly recommended collage, sewing, fabric printing and much more! For 5-11yr olds. Materials provided. Tutors are subject specialists who tailor the teaching and learning experience to for children with dyslexia. Classes are held at their offce in Harrow on the Hill, HA2 0JT. Qualifed teachers.  07946 055 422 relieve any subject specifc anxieties and help build your child’s confdence so they Free trials available. Adult classes also available.  020 8434 7111.  [email protected] achieve a successful outcome.  0333 920 2545. www.fleet-tutors.co.uk  www.typeitforkids.co.uk. [email protected].

SportsKids - Multi-Sports Academy Sports Activities for 4 to 16 year olds The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance Tel: 01923 255099 E: [email protected] • Ballet classes for boys & girls aged 3-18 • Outstanding Royal Academy of Dance Sportscoach are celebrating 10 years examinations results by expanding and rebranding to • Established 14 years in Stanmore • Successful places at Royal Ballet School, Tring Park, SportsKids Academy Central School of Ballet, London Senior/Junior Ballet, American Football - Dodgeball - Handball - Basketball London Studio Centre, Ballet West Tag Rugby - Softball - Gaelic Football - Rounders - Athletics • Numerous cups/medallists – British Federation of Festivals Kwik Cricket - Gymnastics - Tennis - Climbing Wall - Fencing • Contemporary/Jazz classes Lacrosse - Netball - Volleyball - Archery - Martial Arts - Kin Ball Classes are held in the Stanmore and and Bushey Area Football - Badminton - Tri Golf - Uni-Hoc Suzanne Van Niekerk (RAD Qualified Teacher) We are located in Harrow and Rickmansworth T: 020 8950 2457 www.vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk “Develop poise, technique and expression through dance”

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