North

IN THIS ISSUE Education and School Feature Issue Plus Local Clubs and Classes WIN a term of swimming lessons with Swimming Nature See page 8 Plus What’s On, Children’s Theatre and much more!

Issue 132 September/October 2018 familiesonline.co.uk Welcome to the September/October issue!

CONTACT US: UPCOMING ISSUES IN THIS ISSUE: Nov/Dec 2018 — “Seasonal 2 Families News Celebrations, Families North London 4 Independent Schools Pantos” IN THIS ISSUE Open Days North London Education and Deadline : School Feature Issue Plus Local Clubs and Classes 6 Education 1 October 2018 WIN a term of swimming lessons with Swimming Magazine Nature See page 8 10 Family Health Plus What’s On, Children’s Send in your Theatre and much more! Publisher: Karen Konowalchuk 10 Parties, Clubs Classes Managing Editor: Lisa Ralph news, stories and advertising & Activities PO Box 74501, Muswell Hill N10 9DZ bookings to the Issue 132 September/October 2018 familiesonline.co.uk 16 What’s On T: 020 8793 3366 details left. Front cover image credit M: 07402 613 042 Jenny Smith Photography 18 Children’s Theatre E: [email protected] jennysmithphotography.co.uk E: [email protected] www.FamiliesNorthLondon.co.uk FamiliesNorthLondon FamiliesNthLon FamiliesNorthLondon

HADLEY WOOD M25 WHERE IS FAMILIES NORTH LONDON? HIGH BARNET CLAY HILL M1 ENFIELD Families North London Magazine is distributed bi-monthly throughout North London. ARKLEY TOTTERIDGE An area bordered by the M1/A5 on the West, the A112/A10 on the East, the M25 to the MILL HILL WHETSTONE SOUTHGATE LOWER EDMONTON North and the A501 to the South. FINCHLEY A406 MUSWELL HILL HENDON WOOD GREEN TOTTENHAM You can collect a FREE copy from the scores of outlets: schools, nurseries, play groups, CROUCH END BRENTBRENT CROSSCROSS CRICKLEWOOD GOLDERS GREEN clubs and classes, sports centres, libraries, family doctors and baby clinics, and STOKE NEWINGTON SWISS COTTAGE HIGHGATE HAMPSTEAD HIGHBURY children’s shops. If you would like to stock copies to give to parents please let us know. KENTISH TOWN ISLINGTON WEST HAMPSTEAD CAMDEN CHALK FARM KING'S CROSS For families from birth to twelve. Read by over 60,000 local families 6 times a year. ST JOHN'S WOOD REGENT'S PARK HOXTON

Families News Boosting Children’s Self-esteem and Life Skills with Perform A common struggle shared by many children is lack of confidence. This can stop some children reaching their full potential. Perform is a unique drama school that uses drama, dance and singing to help all children achieve their true potential—even those that are shy and reserved. “Perform is NOT a stage school” stresses Perform Producer, Karen. “It teaches life skills through fun drama games and end of term shows. The real aim of the classes is to help children develop the 4Cs: Confidence, Concentration, Coordination and Communication. “Classes are small with both a Producer and a Teacher. Children are offered a free trial and the Producer spends time beforehand with each parent establishing their goals. For instance, speaking more clearly or making eye contact when introduced to someone unfamiliar.” Producers report back to parents after each class on the focus of the week and answer questions about the progress of individual children. “Shy children often come to classes clinging to their parents. I can pretty much guarantee that within 5 or 6 classes, they will run in without waving goodbye” reports Karen. For more information on your local classes in NW3, N22, N8, NW5, N2, N12 & N3, N4, N11, NW3, NW11, N6, N1, N10, N12, NW1, N14, NW8, N16, N20, N7, NW6, N21 and NW7 visit www.perform.org.uk/try A Confident Start with Jigsaw Family Friendly Street Food Performing Arts Market, Hawker Union, in A new school year is here, which means that children across London Wood Green and the Home Counties are taking Street Feast has turned an unloved disused to the stage as Jigsaw begins an warehouse space in Wood Green into a fantastic exciting new term of drama, singing new indoor/outdoor eating and drinking and dance classes; the perfect destination. Open all year round, from 5 pm on Fridays and activity to escape the cold, wet October weekends. Our classes from 12 noon on weekend days, Hawker Union hosts several are designed to develop children’s confidence, focus and social bars and food traders offering a variety of food including a skills,while having fun and making lots of new friends. With more great selection of vegan barbeque food from Root & Coal. With children attending Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools than ever pool tables inside, and giant feasting tables and trampolines before, now is the time to book a two-week trial and discover aligning the sun- trap yard outside, this space has something to these unique benefits at a school near you. offer for all the family during the day. Then at night, thousands For more information or to book a two-week trial, visit of festoon lights and neon lighting transform the old Olympia www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk or call 020 8447 4530. Industrial Estate making it the perfect date night destination! www.streetfeast.com/visit-us/hawker-union/

2 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk St Andrews Southgate Primary School (CE), LET’S GET 297 Chase Road, N14 6JA. 15th, 22nd & 29th September, 6th, 13th 20th October THIS PARTY FREE assessment on open days. www.leadersarereaders.co.uk STARTED! Call now to book your place: 01992 651 300

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familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 3 Education Independent Schools Open Days

Please check websites to confirm in advance of visiting advertised open days. Listings are subject to change.

Abercorn School NW8 NW3 Boys and Girls 2 ½ - 13 yrs Boys and Girls 6 – 13 yrs Open Day: Fri 28 Sep; Fri 19 Oct; Wed 28 Nov, all 9.15am Open days: By appointment 8www.abercornschool.com (020 7100 4335 8www.academyschoolhampstead.com (020 7435 6621 The American School in London NW8 Annemount Nursery and Pre-Preparatory School N2 Boys and Girls 4-18 yrs Boys and Girls 3-7 yrs Open Day: Thu 20 Sept, 6pm Open day: By appointment 8www.asl.org (020 7449 1200 8www.annemount.co.uk (020 8455 2132 Arnold House School NW8 Belmont School NW7 Boys 5-13 yrs Boys and Girls 7-13 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open Day: Sat 29 Sept, 9am – 12noon 8www.arnoldhouse.co.uk (020 7266 4840 8www.millhill.org.uk/belmont (020 8906 7290 Cavendish School NW1 Channing School Girls 3-11yrs, Boys 3-7 yrs N6 Girls 4-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open Day: Jun Sch – 18/ 25 Sept, 8.45-10am. Sen Sch-various dates 8www.cavendishschool.co.uk (020 7485 1958 8www.channing.co.uk (020 83402338 Devonshire House School NW3 Dwight School N11/12 Boys and Girls 2½–13 yrs Boys and Girls 2-18 yrs Open Day: Wed 10 & Thu 11 Oct, 9.45-11.30am Open Day: Lwr Sch – Thu 11 Oct, Upp Sch – Tue 9 Oct, 10.30am-12.30pm 8www.devonshirehouseschool.co.uk (020 7435 1916 8www.dwightlondon.org (020 8920 0637 Francis Holland School NW1 Goodwyn School NW7 Girls 4-18 yrs Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs Open Day: Weds 12 Sept, Fri 12 Oct, Thu 18 Oct, all from 8.45am Open Day: By appointment 8www.fhs-nw1.org.uk (020 7723 0176 8www.goodwyn-school.co.uk (020 8959 3756 Grange Park Prep School N21 Grimsdell School NW7 Boys 3-4 yrs, Girls 3-11 yrs Boys and Girls 3-7 yrs Open Day: Tue 3 Oct, Tue 7 Nov, Tue 5 Dec, Tue 9 Jan, all 9.30am Open Day: Sat 29 Sept, 9am – 12noon 8www.gpps.org.uk (020 8360 4869 8www.millhill.org.uk/grimsdell (020 8959 6884 The Hall School NW3 Hendon Prep School NW4 Boys 4-13 yrs Boys & Girls 2-13 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open Day: Thu 27 Sep 8www.hallschool.co.uk (020 7449 6918 8www.hendonprep.co.uk (020 8203 7727 Hampstead NW3 Highgate School N6 Boys 4-13 yrs Boys and Girls 3-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open Day: By appointment 8www.herewardhouse.co.uk (020 7794 4820 8www.highgateschool.org.uk (020 8347 3564 Keble Prep School N21 Kilburn Grange School NW6 Boys 4-13 yrs Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open Day: By appointment 8www.kebleprep.co.uk (020 8360 3359 8www.kilburngrangeschool.org.uk (020 7504 0547 King Alfred School NW11 Lyndhurst House School NW3 Boys and Girls 4-18 yrs Boys 4-13 yrs Open Day: Thu 20 Sep (Upper Sch) Thu 11 Oct (Lower Sch); 9.30-11am Open Day: Wed 17 Oct, Tue 30 Oct, all 9.30-11am 8www.kingalfred.org.uk (020 8457 5285 8www.lyndhursthouse.co.uk (020 7435 4936 Lyonsdown Prep School EN5 Norfolk House School N10 Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs Boys and Girls 4-11 yrs Open Day: Thu 18 Oct, 10am Open Day: By appointment 8www.lyonsdownschool.co.uk (020 8449 0225 8www.norfolkhouseschool.org (020 8883 4584 North Bridge House School NW1/3 North London Rudolf Steiner School N8 Boys and Girls 2yrs 9mnths - 18 yrs Boys and Girls 0-7 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open Day: Tues 2 Oct, 1.30- 3pm 8www.northbridgehouse.com (020 7267 6266 8www.rudolfsteiner.london.sch.uk (020 8341 3770 St Anthony’s School NW3 St Anthony’s School NW11 Boys 4-13 yrs Girls 4- 11 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open Days: Sat 22 Sept & 13 Oct, Thurs 20 Sept to 18 Oct, all at 10am 8www.stanthonysprep.org.uk (020 7431 1066 8www.stanthonygirls.co.uk (020 3869 3070 St Margaret’s School Hampstead NW3 Mount House School EN4 Girls 4-16 yrs Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: Thu 20 Sep 5-6.30pm, Weds 26 Sept 9.15-11am Open Day: Sat 29 Sept 8www.st-margarets.co.uk (020 7435 2439 8www.mounthouse.org.uk (020 8449 6889 St Martin’s School Mill Hill NW7 St Paul’s Steiner School N1 Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs Boys and Girls 3-14 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open Day: By appointment 8www.stmartinsmillhill.co.uk (020 8959 1965 8www.stpaulssteinerschool.org (020 7226 4454 Salcombe Prep School N14 Sarum Hall School Girls NW3 Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs Open Day: Thu 20 Sep, 9.15am Open Day: By appointment 8www.salcombeprep.co.uk (020 8441 5356 8www.sarumhallschool.co.uk (020 7794 2261 South Hampstead High School NW3 University College School NW3 Girls 4-18 yrs Boys and Girls 4-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open Day: 13 Sep, 4.30pm (Jun Sch). 11/17 Sept, 5pm (Sen Sch) 8www.shhs.gdst.net (020 7435 2899 8www.ucs.org.uk (020 7722 4433

4 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk Education

To promote your business or services to over 60,000 North London Families, get in touch! [email protected] [email protected]

THE KING ALFRED SCHOOL

• Ages 4 to 18 years • Teaching is child-centred & multi-sensory • Children develop independent thinking & study skills • Success for all in non-competitive classroom environment • Progress monitored & individual aptitudes & talents encouraged • Children feel safe, happy and thrive in atmosphere of care & respect

Reception entry by waiting list order, registration from birth

For enquiries: [email protected] or call: 020 8457 5285

The King Alfred School North End Road London NW11 7HY

www.kingalfred.org.uk

familiesonline.co.ukKAS_Small Steps Ad_Nov 2016.indd 1 Families25/11/2016 North London 14:00 5 Education

Explore Learning – “her school work and self- confidence has significantly improved” Explore Learning provides maths and English tuition to children aged four to 14, with 139 centres across the country. Families caught up with an Explore Learning member to find out more about their experience. How long have you been going to Explore? Over 3 years. Why did you decide to join Explore? To help raise Emily’s low self-esteem and to increase confidence. How has Explore helped/ what impact has Explore had? They have provided Emily with the tools to enable her to take pride in her work, whilst learning and gaining confidence. It has taught Emily how to prioritise and complete work to deadlines.

Who would you recommend Explore to? A child of any school How has Explore worked with you as a family/supported you age and of any ability. as a family? Explore has provided the reassurance of a safe Can you tell me what you think makes Explore Learning a and secure learning environment for our daughter. Reports and unique tutoring service? Knowledgeable members of staff/ regular parent’s meetings have enables us to discuss Emily’s tutors who really do care about the children and their on-going progression and periodically set new goals or targets. learning. Also great ‘staff to children’ ratios. How has Explore supported what your child is working on at How do Explore tutors support your child in their sessions? school? Explore worked with Emily prior to her SATs, significantly The tutors are supportive by being friendly, approachable and improving her self-confidence, and ensuring she was happy and encouraging, always welcoming Emily to each and every session. confident. Subsequently Emily received fantastic SATs results The tutors praise good work and feedback to parents after every and has transitioned very smoothly to Senior School with great session. self-confidence and eagerness What does Emily enjoy about her sessions at Explore Learning? Get in touch with Explore Learning today by calling 03301 Emily always enjoys her sessions, finding them fun, calming, 243 802 to discuss your child’s need and book your free trial. challenging and most of all rewarding. Emily has seen for herself Alternatively, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk to find your the progress she has made at school, which has helped boost her nearest centre. self-confidence.

6 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk Education

Extra Academic Support or Not is the Red-Hot Question The January edition of School Report has published a series of articles exploring the role of extra pupil support, based on the premise that parents are increasingly seeking extra help for their children’s academic success. Below is an outline of some factors for this upward trend: • There are inequalities in standards of teaching and resources from one school to another. • Many parents don’t get a real choice about which school their child will be allocated a place. • Schools that are high in the league tables are very sought after, so competition for places is fierce. • Schools themselves, both selective and some mainstream that are high in the league tables, want the very best candidates to secure their places in the league tables. Which in turn, puts huge pressure on pupils and parents to respond to these increasing expectations, and the economic climate of recent years has strained the school’s budgets further. Blaming and complaining is unproductive. Government changes and legislative solutions are often well-intentioned and usually come with pros and cons. So, what IS the answer? Evidence indicates that parents are choosing to do what they • Children enjoy an experience more akin to private school. can in the form of extra help for their children. • Our class numbers are small, allowing each child more personal How can parents decide if extra academic support is the right attention. choice for their child? • We focus on pupil’s specific strengths and identify their needs, to help them fulfil their potential. • Identify/clarify what is important to you regarding your child’s • The culture of our schools offers a healthy learning environment education. which can be felt as a palpable and visible reality. Like-minded • Honestly ask yourself does your child have the ability regarding parents who share a commitment for their children to thrive your academic aspirations/expectations of them. generate a positive learning attitude in their children, which further strengthens our exemplary educational settings. • If your child is not managing at school or unhappy, explore/ investigate any issues with the school (including poor teaching, • Our flexible programmes empower gifted students to develop peer or teacher bullying). their skills and talents as they are given an outlet to learn topics more advanced than their school years. • Explore any medical or learning needs such as hearing problem, short-sightedness or dyslexia. • Quality is what distinguishes a good school and engaged parents. We offer quality face-to-face tutoring and quality Based on your findings, extra help for your child may be the right resources. choice to make! • We provide lots of opportunity to practice and develop At Leaders are Readers we help your child develop a passion for key study skills such as exam preparation and techniques; learning and gain skills in Learning to read, Maths, English and independent learning through carefully prepared homework Reasoning. assignments and self-regulation (motivating themselves to stay on task until it is completed). • Our Saturday and Summer Schools help to bridge the gap between the education and self-development that good Call us on 01992 651 300 for further information to book a trial schools offer compared to the rest. lesson for our next Open Day. You can also book a trial lesson by visiting us on www.leadersarereaders.co.uk

Modern Approach Traditional Values

A Haberdashers’ boarding Haberdashers’ Adams Connect with us High Street, Newport education for just £3,850 a term Shropshire, TF10 7BD To fi nd out more visit www.adamsgs.uk +44 (0) 1952 953810 /HabsAdamsGS

familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 7 Education

The Eleven Plus is Transforming Families with children seeking entrance to selective schools at 11+ have been worried to hear about the big changes being made to the 11+ assessment process. In most cases the changes are aimed at delivering a “tutor-proof” approach, but by adapting the approach to students’ learning, it is still possible to make sound preparations to face them with confidence. High standards The options at secondary level are non-selective state schools, state selective/grammar schools or private schools, that are also often selective. Top grammar schools are looking for standardised scores well above the national average. Applying to these schools is not for the faint-hearted and should only be attempted where the child has been academically assessed as having the innate ability to succeed, with or without tutoring support. Key changes State schools are now increasing their use of computerised tests, including cognitive and abstract reasoning. Practising these types of challenges can develop performance and help a child achieve to the best of their ability on the day. Interviews are often an important element for independent schools, and a key change this year is the stated aim to really understand the way the child thinks. This means children will benefit from practice in answering the type of questions that would reveal the way they think through their answers before delivering them. GL and CEM are the two different exam boards that are the examiners for the 11+ in virtually all regions where the 11+ is still used. Both boards cover broadly the same 11+ topics - English, maths, verbal and non-verbal reasoning/spatial awareness exercises. It is vital that you know which exam board is being used, but the key focus areas for either should be the development of vocabulary and maths skills, plus plenty of timed practice including the various reasoning tests. These changing 11+ exams may be intended to be remove the advantage of tutoring help, but it is a fact that well-guided practice and preparation for any exam are never wasted! JK Educate are experts in preparing children for the 11+ exams for state selective and independent schools. They also offer academic assessments, including suitability for the 11+. If you would like more information, contact JK Educate on 020 3488 0754 or at www.jkeducate.co.uk

Does practice really make perfect? As children develop and improve their cognitive abilities, they are expected to become less reliant on supervised learning and develop self-learning skills. Although there are some self-learning tools taught within education-psychology textbooks, educators are not always given the evidence to show which of these tools work most effectively. A 2013 comprehensive review of 10 learning techniques that students could implement on their own was conducted by a group of educational and neuroscience psychologists. The outcome of this review was that ‘Practice Testing’ was the most effective learning technique. The traditional method of teaching, whereby students are given a technique to be mastered followed by the testing of their understanding of that technique, is the most effective way for children to be educated in the primary, secondary and tertiary sectors. Teaching children these skills early on, and helping them understand that regular practice will enable them to remember information when it comes to sitting an exam, will encourage those students who are motivated to improve their overall scores. Testing does improve learning and practice does make perfect.

COMPETITION WIN! a terms worth of swimming lessons from Swimming Nature Swimming Nature, the UK’s best one-to-one and two-to-one swimming classes, has taught thousands of children to swim beautifully. Now, they’re offering a terms worth of swimming lessons at one of their select London-based locations for one lucky winner! To enter, email [email protected] with your name, telephone number and postcode and answer the following question for your chance to win: What is the length, in metres, of an Olympic swimming pool?

Terms & Conditions – The prize is a terms worth of 2:1 30-minute swimming lessons for a child aged 3+ with Swimming Nature once a week at a select London based location (to be confirmed upon winner selection). A term includes 12-14 lessons but may vary based on term length. The winner will be selected by random prize draw of all entries who have provided their name, telephone number and postcode and answered the question correctly. Entries from the UK only. Entries will not be accepted after the closing date of 31 October, 2018. The winner will be contacted by email within 24 hours after the closing date. There is no cash alternative to this prize. The winner will need to coordinate details of the prize with a Swimming Nature employee. By entering this contest, you are automatically subscribed to the Swimming Nature mailing list. Swimming Nature may get in touch from time-to-time with news and promotions. You can unsubscribe at any time.

8 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk Education

The Secret of State Boarding State boarding schools regularly out-perform other schools around the country and yet they are still unheard of by many. We caught up with Gary Hickey, Headmaster of Haberdashers’ Adams in Newport, Shropshire, to help unravel the mystery. There are only 38 state boarding schools in the UK. Nine of those, including Haberdashers’ Adams, are selective grammar schools. As state schools, the education is free so parents only have to pay for the cost of boarding, which at Haberdashers’ Adams is less than £4,000 per term. This offers parents a much more affordable boarding option, particularly when compared to the independent sector when they can easily pay fees of £40,000 or more a year. State boarding does not mean pupils receive any less care and attention than those in the independent sector. Our boarders start their school life at Longford Hall, a Georgian mansion set in 100 acres of grounds. The boys are cared for by a Boarding Housemaster and his team of matrons and tutors and enjoy a lovely homely environment. Older boys live at Beaumaris Hall which has been designed to be a similar environment to university halls of residence. The boys enjoy en-suite facilities in every room with most rooms being double occupancy. They have a large communal area to spend time together in as well as a popular supper kitchen where culinary skills can be cultivated. The majority of pupils join state boarding schools at the age of 11 and continue until they leave school for university. A few may join at 13+ if spaces are available while others decide to board in the Sixth Form, recognising boarding as the perfect introduction to living and studying away from home. Within the safety net of the boarding community, they learn to adjust to the freedom and independence of being away from home. A set prep time each night helps to ensure they pay proper attention to their work, establishing good studying habits with support when needed from a team of experienced boarding tutors. This often results in significant academic improvements and by the time they leave for university they are completely prepared and very self-disciplined. The camaraderie of the boarding houses is very special indeed and I think the words of a former boarder say it all: “The friends I have made in boarding at Adams will be my friends for life.” Haberdashers’ Adams is delighted to be exhibiting at the 2018 Independent Schools Show in on 10-11 November. The school offers a number of boarding open events and taster weekends throughout the year for families who are considering boarding. Further info: Caroline Cheal/ Sonya Wilson, Haberdashers’ Adams, Tel: (01952) 953 823 [email protected]

familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 9 Family Health

Back to School Vaccinations With the sweltering summer holidays over, in a few weeks parents will need to consider vaccinations recommended for children. The following vacccinations are currently offered by the NHS: 1. Diphtheria/Polio/Tetanus (DTP) vaccination • It is administered at 14 years of age 2. Meningitis ACWY vaccine • It is administered at 14 years of age and to new university students aged 19-25 3. Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine (girls only, will also likely be recommended for boys aged 12 to 13 from 2019 onwards). • HPV vaccine protects against cervical cancer caused by infection with HPV 4. Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR) • Measles and mumps outbreaks are quite common both in the UK and in Europe, affecting teenagers and young people. • Anyone who has not received 2 doses of MMR vaccine in their lifetime should consider being vaccinated as soon as possible. 5. Influenza (Flu) vaccination • The national flu vaccination programme for children for 2018 recommends that the flu vaccine, administered as a nasal spray, should be offered to all children who have not previously received it, and who are aged two to nine years old (but not ten years or older) on 31 August 2018, and to other children in clinical risk groups. Additional optional vaccinations to consider for children The following vaccinations are offered on the NHS to “at-risk” groups of children. 1. Hepatitis B vaccination (HBV) • Since September 2017, it is administered routinely as part of the UK childhood immunisation programme. • A course of HBV may be considered for those young people who have never received it. 2. BCG (tuberculosis/TB) vaccination • It is administered to babies and children (up to 16 years of age) who have a high chance of coming into contact with tuberculosis. • Sometimes a tuberculin skin test / Mantoux test will be carried out before BCG vaccine is administered. 3. Chickenpox vaccination • Currently only offered on the NHS to people who are in close contact with someone who is particularly vulnerable to chickenpox. A highly experienced team of clinical specialist travel medicine nurses, led by Dr Jane Zuckerman, a nationally and internationally renowned Consultant in Travel Medicine and Immunisations, provide a comprehensive one stop Travel Health and Immunisation Clinic at the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust and in Harley Street. http://vaccinations.royalfreeprivatepatients.com Parties, Clubs, Classes & Activities CHILDREN’S PARTIES Adam Ants – offers high energy parties. Adam Ants and his talented team make sure their parties are non-stop fun. With something for all ages: magic, balloon modelling, puppets, music, dancing, games and face painting. They also offer amazing disco/sports parties or the ever popular Build a Bear party. You can hire tables and chairs/bouncy castles/soft play and ball ponds. (020 8959 1045 (07969 121 094 8www.adamantsparties.co.uk

Danny Grant Soccer School (N12) Book football and general sports birthday parties. Courses for energetic & enthusiastic players for ages 3 to 11. Non-stop football fun! Develop fitness & football skills! Exciting matches each day! Specialised term-time weekly football classes for 3 & 4 year olds and 5 and 6 year olds. Plus weekly football training and league matches for 7 to 12 year olds. Call for more details! (020 8446 0891 *[email protected] 8www.dgsoccer.co.uk Perform Parties Based around a colourful theme, Perform’s energetic party leaders use a magical mix of songs, games and laughter to Dramarama We offer Drama, Street Dance or Musical Theatre Parties create fun-filled, action-packed parties. Call (020 7255 9120 or visit for children aged 5-12. Parties can be arranged at your home or venue 8performparties.co.uk of choice. Can be held at the weekend, after-school or during the school holidays. 8www.dramarama.co.uk Puddles Professional Party Planners deliver adventurous, environmentally friendly and hassle-free parties in London. Perfectly matched elements: KiddiKicks If your child is mad for football, they also offer child and the party location, entertainers, decorations, food, timings and parents’ toddler football themed birthday party entertainment. Book a tailor- micro-entertainment. Themes include hunt for treasure in nature sites, made party for football mad youngsters that packs in the fun. They come up-cycled crafts, sing and dance with pirates, fairies and mermaids, to your venue too! Score a great happy birthday party with your kids. superhero or secret agent and more. (07835 689 841 South West London, East London, North London, West London. 8www.puddles.london (020 7937 7965 *[email protected] 8www.kiddikicks.co.uk Rising Stars Birthday Parties (N2 + ) A full service offering Microsport (NW1, NW3 & NW8) offers fun, multi-sports parties for children which includes venues, entertainment, invitations, catering and going aged 2-8 years. Our entertaining, unique programme is adapted from our home presents so parents can sit back and enjoy the party! We offer weekly classes and can include firm favourites like tennis, football, hockey, various themes including football, multi – sports, nerf guns, dance, rugby, cricket, basketball as well as general sporting skills and athletics. gymnastics and bespoke themes whilst playing the latest big tunes. *[email protected] for more info. For further enquiries, *[email protected] or ( 8 Nicky Grace, textile artist in Muswell Hill, offers craft parties and 020 8150 6655. www.risingstarsactivities.com workshops for children (and adults), in a calm, natural and creative place which seats up to 14 people round the table. Children take home the beautiful things they’ve made so no need for party bags. *[email protected] 8thegreenshed.format.com

10 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk Parties, Clubs, Classes and Activities

SPECIAL FEATURE - CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES 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.

Top Tips for Choosing Classes, Activities & Clubs for your Child September is an exciting time in every calendar—the start of a new school year and the beginning of new adventures. For parents it’s when we think about how best to support our child and equip them with the tools they need as they take on new challenges. Many families will be considering courses and classes. Whether Music, Sport, Drama, Dance or STEM, term time courses are a great option, it can be difficult knowing which one to choose. Here are a few of our tips, all gained from experience as mums and dads and education professionals. Make it fun It goes without saying that your child has to have fun, otherwise they won’t be interested in the class. Make sure your chosen course creates an exciting atmosphere, meet the team if you can, just like at our Discovery Days. Make it rewarding In our experience children gain the most when they and are rewarded for their progression. Whether, like our weekly music lessons, your chosen course has incentives and a nationally recognised scheme such as Music Medals from ABRSM, make sure there is something which helps your child understand that they are doing well so they can feel good about themselves and encouraged all the time. Boost development You understand that your child’s time is precious that’s the reason you are considering the course after all. Make sure you look out for how your chosen course talks about the positive impact it has on your child, what they will learn and how it will help them fulfill their potential. If they are seriously on their game they will have a personal report just as we do in our Term Time Courses. Here in The Strings Club office we are busy getting ready to launch our Term Time Courses - weekly music lessons lovingly developed and specifically designed for beginners aged 4-11 - on Saturday 29th of September. We run them because we know from experience that engaging in music has a powerful impact on a child’s life, everything from developing skills, building confidence and boosting educational attainment. If you’d like more information go to www.thestringsclub.org or call 0121 296 9204.

COOKERY DANCE Sycamore Seeds After School Cookery Club Teaching kids how to cook The Kensington Ballet School (NW6) Ballet for ages 18 months–6 years at helps build a healthy attitude to food. Hands-on lessons from a Leiths- St James’s Church in West Hampstead, Unity Hall in Islington, and Rudolf trained chef that go “beyond cupcakes”. We make sweet and savoury Steiner House in Marylebone. FREE TRIAL CLASS. treats to take home, develop kitchen skills and learn fun food facts. Call Karen Fisher-Lowe (07961 992 957 or *[email protected] Mondays at Hornsey Vale Community Centre (N8) for 7–11 year-olds. 8www.kensingtonballet.com Private lessons and children’s parties also available. (07887 585 957 *[email protected] 8sycamoresmyth.com/sycamore-seeds Continued on page 12

Microsport offers fun, multi-sports classes for 2-8 year olds. We teach ball skills for tennis, football, cricket, hockey, basketball, rugby, athletics & much more.

Sign up today! www.micro-sport.co.uk [email protected] 0203 907 6849

familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 11 Parties, Clubs, Classes and Activities

Is Your Child Sport Ready? By Raymond Vestibule Physical activity is good for children of all ages and participation in organised sports may be an enjoyable way for children to be physically active. However, sporting activities must be developmentally appropriate for your child. Enrolling your child in a sport or activity beyond their developmental ability can lead to frustration and early dropout. Ages 2 to 5 Toddlers and pre-schoolers may be beginning to get the hang of many basic movements but are too young for most organised sports. So at this age don’t stress too much if your little one isn’t enrolled in a dozen different activities. According to the Mayo Clinic, toddlers who participate in organised sports typically don’t gain any long- term advantage in terms of future sports performance. At this age, unstructured free play is usually best. Try running, tumbling, throwing, catching and swimming. Ages 6 to 9 As children get older, their vision, attention span and transitional skills, such as throwing a ball for distance, improve. They’re also better able to follow directions. Consider organised activities such as running, football, gymnastics, swimming, tennis and martial arts. Ages 10 to 12 By this age, children have mature vision and the ability to understand and recall sports strategies. Children of this age are typically ready to take on complex skill sports, such as football, basketball, hockey and volleyball. As well as considering whether a sport is age-appropriate for your child, take into account how much they will enjoy the activity based on their maturity and abilities. Your child may show a natural preference for one activity over another, which shouldn’t be ignored. Remember children change as they grow and it’s normal for them to show a keen interest in one activity one year, only to switch to another by the next. Keep monitoring their level of interest and stay involved with their progress. Be positive and encouraging by emphasising effort and enjoyment over winning and never try to persuade your child to continue with a sport they clearly don’t enjoy, whatever age they are. More information visit www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle and www.nhs.uk/change4life

The London Institute Of Dance (N10, N8, N12, N21, N22, N9, EN4, Herts) Excellent, Professional tuition in Imperial Ballet, Tap, Modern, SWIMMING Contemporary & More. For ages 2.5years–Adults Swimming Nature – Teaching babies, children and adults the 8www.londoninstituteofdance.org fundamentals skills required to improve water confidence and learn to *[email protected] swim. For 25 years, our hands-on approach helps students reach their (07563 136 803 goals faster. Swimming Nature deliver lessons in Queens Park, Muswell Hill, Highbury, Hampstead, Cricklewood. MUSIC AND MOVEMENT For more details visit 8www.swimmingnature.com or give us a call on (03445 040 506. Colourstrings – for a brilliant start in music! Call (020 8444 9435 for a trial of 3 discounted lessons or email *[email protected] 8www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk SPORTS AND EXERCISE Danny Grant Soccer School offers action-packed football classes for Muswell Young Musicians is a Saturday Music School offering energetic & enthusiastic players aged 3 to 11. Non-stop football fun for 3 musicianship classes (18 months–5 years) and an innovative instrumental & 4 yrs and 5 & 6 yrs as they develop fitness and football skills and play programme (5 years+). We’re passionate about music education and exciting weekly matches. 7–12 yrs can join our Belsize Rockets team for strive to provide an inclusive setting where young people can enjoy high- weekend football training and league matches. Football and general quality music making and grow as well-rounded musicians. Contact us for sports birthday parties also bookable. a free trial. We look forward to welcoming you! Call (020 8446 0891 for more details or visit 8www.dgsoccer.co.uk 8www.muswellyoungmusicians.co.uk *[email protected] Gojumpin (EN1) Interconnecting trampolines for free jumping, foam pits, (07954 854 731 tumble tracks, battle beams and more. Under 5s have their own area devoted to them. Also, birthday parties, school and group events, free The Strings Club (NW3 & N1) Enhance your child’s development through running classes, fitness classes, teen nights, toddler classes and other our award-winning Term-Time courses for children aged 4 to 11. Bespoke special events and sessions throughout the year. sessions designed and delivered by the best musicians in the UK. Will 8www.gojumpin.com/enfield/ inspire your child’s love of music and promote all-round musicianship. Delivered in small groups, starting from only £15 per lesson. Kiddikicks (NW1, N16, NW6, W9) Football Coaching for children 18 months (01212 969 204 to 10 years old. 8www.thestringsclub.org/northlondon (020 7937 7965 *[email protected] 8www.kiddikicks.co.uk/timetable

12 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk Parties, Clubs, Classes and Activities

London Academy of Gymnastics & Dance (LAGAD) N2, N3, N8, N10, N14, N15, N20, N22, NW11, HA9

LAGAD is a specialist company passionate about the provision of high quality, dynamic and fun dance & gymnastics classes. We run gymnastics classes for children aged from 3½ years upwards, including Young Teens, Rhythmic Gymnastics and Disability Gymnastics. We also offer Ballet, Global Dance and Street Dance classes. Fully-trained coaches— many of whom are former World and International gymnasts—work with all abilities to bring out the best in each child and help them develop a range of fantastic physical and life skills in a fun and safe environment. All abilities welcome, Trial Classes available throughout the Autumn term. Various venues across North London. Contact: (020 8883 4675 / *[email protected] Dramarama: Saturday Morning Drama, Drama Exam, Street Dance & 8www.lagad.co.uk Musical Theatre classes in NW3, for boys & girls aged 3 to 15. Performing Arts classes aim to develop acting skills and performance technique with creative activities and exciting end of term plays, dance shows and Little Kickers Enabling children aged 18mths up to their 7th birthday to musicals. Drama, Musical Theatre & Street Dance birthday parties also develop their coordination, balance and agility through football activity bookable. Call (020 8446 0891 or visit 8www.dramarama.co.uk classes. Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Holiday Academy (NW1) is a children’s day camp in NW1, for children Barnet: Julia Levene aged 3–12 (in age groups) from all schools. Go along for exciting sessions (020 8201 1084 *[email protected]. including music, drama, art, sport and forest school each school holiday. North Finchley, Southgate, Enfield town, Enfield St Lukes: Emma Hanna Sessions running over the Oct Half Term Mon 23 Oct–Fri 27 Oct, at (020 7684 7969 *[email protected] Cavendish School. 8www.littlekickers.co.uk (07585 002 327 *[email protected] Microsport (NW1, NW3) offers fun, multi-sports classes for children aged 8www.holidayacademy.co.uk 2–8 years. We run weekly sessions during term times in Kentish Town, Marylebone and West Hampstead and do Holiday Microsport clubs. Huzzah Performing Arts & Mindfulness Build confidence from the inside 8www.micro-sport.co.uk for details and to book out with a huzzah weekly class. Drama, dance, singing and a touch or email *[email protected] for more info including parties! of mindfulness. Ages 4–7. Saturday 1–2.20pm in Queen’s Park. Sunday 10–11.30am in West Hampstead. Creative, calm, confident kids. Sign up for North London Schools of Taekwondo The Korean Martial Art of a FREE TRIAL at 8www.huzzahperformingarts.com Taekwondo, for Self Defence, Fitness, discipline and Confidence. Classes for 3–5 yr olds, 5–11 yr olds and mixed Family/Adults. Classes in Barnet, Jigsaw - Jigsaw Performing Arts is dedicated to developing performance Cheshunt & Enfield skills, promoting self expression and building confidence. Schools in 8www.taekwondo-northlondon.co.uk 8www.selfdefence-london.com Crouch End, Enfield, Finchley, Hendon, Winchmore Hill. Phone Richard on (07967 128420 8www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk (020 8447 4530 Rising Stars Football Club (N2 + NW2) High quality football coaching in a safe and fun environment. Children will learn and develop core football Perform (NW3, N22, N8, NW5, N2, N12 & N3, N4, N11, NW3, NW11, N6, N1, skills to ensure that they progress and fulfil their potential. Teaching will N10, N12, NW1, N14, NW8, N16, N20, N7, NW6, N21 and NW7) Confidence also focus on appreciating good sportsmanship and teamwork. We offer a building fun for 4–12s. A unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially boys and girls only football club! Age structure: Pre Reception–Year 6. formulated to bring out every child’s true potential. Classes are kept small Book now (020 8150 6655 *[email protected] to ensure lots of individual attention. Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions. (020 7255 9120 *[email protected] THEATRE & PERFORMING ARTS 8www.perform.org.uk/try

Anna Fiorentini Theatre & Film School: Saturday workshops in Drama, Join the exhilarating atmosphere of The Place this Autumn. Singing, Dance and Film all taught by leading industry professionals. Our Jam packed with dance activities and performances for all ages from Camden branch takes place at Parliament Hill School at 9.30am–2pm or babies to over 60’s, including workshops the whole family can enjoy 2.30pm–5.30pm for 7-18 year olds. Fiorentini Weenies for 4-6 years takes together! More info at 8theplace.org.uk or call (020 7121 1100 place at 9.30am–11am. More details at 8www.annafiorentini.com Continued on page 14

familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 13 Parties, Clubs, Classes and Activities

Leaders are Readers award-winning reading programme, exemplary AFTER SCHOOL CLUB / EDUCATION English, maths, 4+, 5+, 7+ and 11+ curricula have helped more than 3500 11+ Mock Test Masters - 11plus Limited and Mock Test Masters™ are children from 3+ to 13 years old, for over 17 years, with a 90% pass rate for specialist providers or information and resources for the 11+ entrance children taking entrance exams to top grammar & independent schools. exam. They demystify and ease the 11+ preparation process for parents Saturday School for the Summer 2018 and Autumn 2018 term enrolling and their children. BIG 11+ events are run in local centres in Finchley and now. St Andrew’s CE Primary School 297 Chase Road, Southgate N14 6JA. Barnet. Also available are: Holiday Learning Clubs, Mock Test Review Free assessment on open days. Open Days on 5, 12, 19 & 26 May and 9, 16, Sessions, Pass Club—Saturday tuition and Weekly Practice Tests. 23 & 30 June. (01992 651 300 8www.leadersarereaders.co.uk 8www.mocktestmasters.com SDE Finchley Susan Daughtrey Education has operated extremely Bilingual Nurseries (N1) French/English Mars Montessori Bilingual Nursery successful 11+ Courses for over 25 years. The classes are taught by a is a small private nursery in the heart of Islington, offering Montessori qualified, experienced and carefully selected KS2 teacher and prepare education and a bilingual environment, coupled with extended day care Year 4 & 5 students for both CEM and GL Assessment tests (and is for children aged 1–4 years. We have only 24 children, and 6 members of therefore suitable preparation for Henrietta Barnett (Stage 1), Laytmer, staff. The nursery is open from 8am–6pm, Monday to Friday for 47 weeks QE Boys, Dame Alice Owen’s, SW Herts Consortium and other counties of the year. (020 7099 0452 8www.bilingualnurseries.com such as Bucks and Berks). Mock Tests also available. Call (020 3515 0099 *[email protected] Explore Learning – Award-winning tuition with a difference. With over 8www.sde11plus.com/courses 120 centres across the UK, head online to find your nearest centre. (01483 447 414 to book your free trial session today. Teachers Teach Education Centre (EN1 EN2 N9 EN3 EN7 N21) Offers 8www.explorelearning.co.uk professional tuition by qualified teachers. They teach students from reception age through to those studying for A-Levels covering: SATs, JK Educate provide educational advice, assessments and tutoring for 11+ & Entrance exams, GCSEs, A-LEVELs—as well as mock exams and all children 7+, 11+, 13+ to GCSE’s and A levels. Help your child achieve the informal school tests. OFSTED registered. (Use childcare vouchers or claim result they deserve. Childcare tax credits) 8www.jkeducate.co.uk Call (020 8363 5008 8www.teachersteachenfield.co.uk *[email protected]

The Kensington Ballet School

WEST HAMPSTEAD ISLINGTON MARYLEBONE SHERRIFF CENTRE UNITY HALL RUDOLF STEINER HOUSE ST JAMES’ CHURCH, NW6 277 UPPER STREET, N1 35 PARK ROAD, NW1 Ages 15 months - 5 years * FREE TRIAL CLASS Office: 07957 650 042 [email protected] www.kensingtonballet.com

Offering the best children’s activities in: ● Holiday Camps ● Football Clubs ● Birthday Parties ● Personal Training ● PE Teaching & School Clubs Ages: 3 – 12 years old Venues: North & North West London Ofsted registered – childcare vouchers accepted

[email protected] 020 8150 6655 www.risingstarsactivities.com

14 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk Parties, Clubs, Classes and Activities

Half Term Holiday Camps

Ages 15th - 26th October 3-12 £40.00

£190.00

We're having a Ball! To promote your For details and availability please call: 0208 201 1084 (NW3, NW7, NW11, N3 & N10) business or services or email [email protected] Classes in Finchley Central, , GoldersGreen, Hampstead, Mill Hill, to over 60,000 North Muswell Hill & Swiss Cottage. 0207 684 7969 (N12, N14, EN1, EN2 & EN5) London Families, get in or email [email protected] Classes in Enfield Town, Enfield St Luke's, New Barnet, North Finchley, Southgate. touch! [email protected] Approved football training for kids aged 18 months to 7 years [email protected] www.littlekickers.co.uk

Toddler Music Classes Early Years Musicianship Instrumental Programmes

Muswell Young Musicians is a Saturday Music School in Muswell Hill. We're passionateaboutmusic education and strive to provide an inclusive settingwhere young people can enjoy high-quality music making and grow as well-rounded musicians. Please contact us for a free trial. We look forward to welcomingyou! www.muswellyoungmusicians.co.uk 07954 854 731 familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 15 What’s On Listings for all the family 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.

Sun 9 Sept—Brilliant Birds at Stephens House (N3) Sat 15 Sept—Children’s Theatre - Tales from the September ‘Finchley’ is said to come from Anglo-Saxon, meaning Shed at Lauderdale House (N2) comes Sat 1 & 8 Sept—Kids Gardening Club at Alexandra ‘place of the finches’ come along and see what birds to Lauderdale House with their hugely popular Palace Garden Centre (N22) For two hours, kids you can spot in the Gardens and make your own show Tales from the Shed. This interactive will learn the health benefits of indoor plants and feathered friend. Pick up your Bird spotting sheet performance is full of colourful puppets, live songs encouraged to think eco-friendly. 10am–12pm and from the Visitor Centre. 11.30–13.00 & 14.00–15.30. and enchanting stories. Every show is fun, extremely 2–4pm, £6 per session or £10 for two children. Age Free drop in workshop. engaging and includes plenty of music and magic. 5–10. 8www.capitalgardens.co.uk/events/ 8www.stephenshouseandgardens.com Children are encouraged to use their imaginations, make lots of noise and be part of the story. 10:30am. Sat 8 Sept—Beginners Hand Embroidery, Adult Sun 9 Sept—Sprit of Ukraine Festival A colourful Suitable for children up to age 6. Tickets: Standard Crafting Workshop At (EN2) Come and Day, full of traditional dancing, live music & singing £8.50, Concession £6.50 , Family £28, Family Conc. spend a relaxing afternoon learning new embroidery at Forty Hall (EN2) The Friends of Forty Hall Park with £20. 8lauderdalehouse.org.uk stitches. 2–4pm. Tickets £28. the Association of Ukrainians in GB - Waltham Cross 8www.fortyhallestate.co.uk branch are delighted to present their fifth successive Sat 15 Sept—Cloud Nine Festival (NW1) This year the “Spirit of Ukraine Festival”! 12 noon–5pm. festival is all about celebrating and protecting the Sat 8 Sept—An Evening With Anthony Daniels at the 8www.fortyhallestate.co.uk environment. We’re delighted to be working again Chicken Shed (N14). Join us in conversation with the with the amazing London Vegetable Orchestra who human inside your favourite droid, C-3PO. Why not Sun 9 September—Trans4nation at 51 will be performing and showing you how to make wear your special Star Wars costume? No blasters! Northumberland Park (N17) Paying homage to a instruments out of the veggies in your fridge, as well Tickets: Stalls £17.50, £12.50 concessions. Gallery community champion, Bobby Martin, the pioneer of as with Flying Colours Entertainment to bring an £12.50 all seats—no under 7s in the Gallery. Starts at local Christian organisation Trasns4nation, and who amazing treeman stilt walker to our festival! 7.30pm. 8www.chickenshed.org.uk passed away suddenly. There will be key speakers www.facebook.com/cloud9 camden who are keen to discuss with the local community Sun 9 Sept—Debutots (6mths-5yrs) at the Jewish the concerns they have and share ideas of how to go Sun 16 Sept—La Tendre Melancholie, The Music of Museum (NW1) Join Debutots in a unique and forward and bring about change. This is the launch of Francois Couperin at Forty Hall (EN2) Prize-winning highly interactive storytelling and drama session, for Trans4nation. Light refreshments will be served free harpsichordist and distinguished teacher returns to children under the age of 5. There’ll be movement of charge. 2.30–5pm. Event contact details: Claudine Forty Hall with two programmes to commemorate to music, bubbles, a wonderful story, plus fun with Duberry: (07931 644 909 the 350th anniversary of the birth of François the parachute. Free, but advance booking advised. Couperin. 2pm. Tickets £6. 10.15–11am (3–5yrs) and 11.15–12pm (6mths–3yrs). Weds 12 Sept—Local History Talk, Industrious Enfield 8www.fortyhallestate.co.uk 8www.jewishmuseum.org.uk at Forty Hall (EN2) Presented by Joe Studman. Tickets £5. 7–8pm. Sun 16 Sept—Opera at Sunset at Forty Hall (EN2) Sun 9 Sept—Farmers Market at Forty Hall (EN2) 8www.fortyhallestate.co.uk Hear the splendid voice of Lucy Elston as she Come ready to fill your shopping bags with a bounty performs at sunset in Forty Hall’s Award winning of local produce, including seasonal, organic veg Thurs 13 Sept—Quiz night at Stephens House Walled Garden. Tickets £15 including a glass of direct from the Farm’s market garden, rare breed (N3) Come and pit your wits against our resident prosecco or non-alcoholic drink. meat and sausages, and Forty Hall Vineyard’s award- quizmaster. Starts at 19.30 Tickets cost £15.00 8www.fortyhallestate.co.uk winning wine—all set within the beautiful grounds of including Supper (Cash bar) Forty Hall Farm. The monthly market is organised by 8www.stephenshouseandgardens.com Thus 20 Sept—Early Years Workshop, at the Parasol ’s Forty Hall Farm in partnership Unit (N1) Delve into an immersive installation certain with The Food Gatherer. 10am–3pm. to evoke curious and sensory investigation! Get 8www.fortyhallestate.co.uk the chance to shape and change using

ADAPTED FROM JULIA DONALDSON AND AXEL SCHEFFLER’S AWARD-WINNING PICTURE BOOK LIVE ON ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ STAGE ‘Everything good children’s theatre should be’ The List © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffl er 2004 Axel Scheffl © Julia Donaldson and

4 DEC 2018 - 6 JAN 2019 North Finchley BOOK NOW .co.uk THE PERFECT FESTIVE TREAT

16 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk What’s On

projectors and drawing light sources from different Forty Hall Farm. The monthly market is organised by treats and activities all day.10am to 5.30pm with last directions. 10 am–12 pm. £2 per child + £3 per parent/ Capel Manor College’s Forty Hall Farm in partnership admission at 4pm. 8www.capelmanorgardens.co.uk carer. Booking required. Under 5s. with The Food Gatherer. 10am–3pm. 8parasol-unit.org 8www.fortyhallestate.co.uk Tues 31 Oct—Halloween Spooky Walks at Lauderdale House (N2) Our super spooky Sun 23 Sept—London Open House Weekend at Sun 14 Oct—Hartbeeps (0-5yrs) at the Jewish Halloween walks are back again this October! Join Lauderdale House (N2) Explore Lauderdale as part Museum (NW1) Music, drama. creative play, dance a host of creepy characters on an adventure around of the Open House London weekend! There will be and movement all set to a soundtrack of remixed Lauderdale House and on the most plenty of activities throughout the day including nursery rhymes, original songs and lullabies. Free sinister night of the year. Walks are at 4.30pm, 5pm, children’s crafts and dressing up - with the chance admission, but advance booking recommended. 5.30pm and 6pm. 8lauderdalehouse.org.uk to make your own Tudor ruff! There will also be 10.30–11.15am (toddlers and infants) 11.30am–12.15pm self-guided discovery trails and guided tours of the (babies and pre-walkers). Sat 27 and Sun 28 Oct—The Amazing Halloween house on offer at 11am and 12.30pm. Admission free. 8www.jewishmuseum.org.uk Experience at the Canal Museum (N1) In 10.30am–2pm. 8lauderdalehouse.org.uk partnership with Camden Canals and Narrowboat Association. Enjoy a ghostly cruise through a long Sun 30 Sept—Honey Show at Capel Manor Gardens Half Term dark canal tunnel and beware of the frights! In the (EN1) Come along for honey sales, candle rolling and Mon 22 Oct—The Big Draw at Artsdepot (N12) museum, enjoy face-painting, ghost story telling, and the opportunity to see an observation hive with the Artsdepot’s bumper day of drawing and creativity lots of lights and decorations. Event runs 15.30–21.45. bees! With local Beekeepers. Adults: £6, Children £3. returns, jam-packed with activities for all ages. The 8www.canalmuseum.org.uk 10am–5pm. 8www.capelmanorgardens.co.uk Big Draw Festival is the world’s biggest celebration of drawing and it takes place across the globe every Sun 28 Oct—Halloween Spooktacular at (N3) Join us for an evening of year. Join us for a day filled with more arty activities Stephens House October Halloween fun including a spine-tingling spooky than you can shake a pencil at! From 11am, £4 entry basement tour, creepy garden ghost hunt, fiendish Sun 7 Oct—Family Workshop, Inhabited Spaces’ into the building. Additional costs for some activities. face-painting, ghoulish games, cunning crafts, at the Parasol Unit (N1) With artist educator 8www.artsdepot.co.uk Flora Duley, explore the themes of space and the terrifying tattoos and more. 16.30–19.00 Tickets £8, body and create sculptural forms you can inhabit. Tues 23 Oct—Get Creative! At the Jewish Museum four tickets £26. Under 2’s free. No unaccompanied The workshop will encourage you to draw from (NW1) Make spooky arts and crafts inspired by our under 16 yrs 8www.stephenshouseandgardens.com observation and use natural objects to create Frankenstein Exhibition! Activities include make your wearable sculptures. 2–4 pm. £2 per child + £3 per own monster using plasticine or design a monster Sun 28 Oct—Fireworks and Laser Show at Scout (EN4) Join us for a parent/carer. Booking required. Ages 5+. treat bag and receive some sweets! Free, 5–11 yr olds. Adventures Gilwel Park spectacular fireworks and laser display with music 8parasol-unit.org 11am–12.30pm, 2–3.30pm. and visual effects—a unique experience for all age 8www.jewishmuseum.org.uk Sun 7 Oct—Family Barn Dance at Cecil Sharp House ranges. The fireworks display will start at 7pm— (NW1) Bring the entire family and take part in lively Weds 24 Oct—Watery Wednesday’s at the Canal with gates open from 4pm to enjoy a range of dances with live music! Groups should include a Museum (N1) A day of activities, including short adventurous activities from Rock Climbing to High minimum of one adult for every four children. Children boat trips plus quizzes, crafts and challenges on Ropes and Dodgems, plus a bar and catering vans. under five should be partnered by an adult and may a Halloween theme. 10.30–12.00 and 13.30–15.00. Gates open 4pm, fireworks display 7pm. Ticketed, need guiding or carrying through the dances. No £4 per child, accompanying adults at normal entry £8.50 for adults, £6 for children unaccompanied children or adults! Advance booking charges. Ages 6–12 roughly. 8www.visiteppingforest.org recommended. 3–5pm Tickets: £7 adult, £5 child, £2 8www.canalmuseum.org.uk under 2s. 8www.cecilsharphouse.org November Thurs 25 Oct—Curious Explorers Morning at the Sat 13 Oct—The Enormous Turnip at Lauderdale Jewish Museum (NW1) A relaxed morning for Fri 2 Nov and Sat 3 Nov—Alexandra Palace House (N2) One Moment In Time Theatre present children (aged 5 to 15) with autism or other social Fireworks Festival (N22) Alexandra Palace’s their own version of the classic folk tale The Enormous communication conditions, their siblings, parents and Fireworks Festival will feature the Park’s legendary Turnip - but with a magical twist! We follow the tale carers. 9–11am, free entry. fireworks, set against the sparkling view of London. of a young girl called Rosie who dreams of carving 8www.jewishmuseum.org.uk Ticketed, from £8.50 for adults, £6.50 for children. a special turnip lantern for the Festival of Light. To 8www.alexandrapalace.com plant and harvest the turnip, Rosie will need plenty of Thurs 25 Oct—Halloween Workshop Inspired by help from the audience, her animal friends and one Broomfield House at Museum of Enfield (EN2) Sat 3 Nov—Firework display at Scout Park (N22). small but very important gnome! Includes beautiful Make your own Broomfield Haunted House to take Two firework displays in one evening. The Quiet One puppetry and engaging story-telling. 10:30am. away with you inspired by the current exhibition— at 5.30pm (toddler and autism friendly) with the Tickets: £8.40, Conc: £6.50. Ages 2+ Hidden Treasures: Revealing Broomfield House & Feature Display then starting at 8pm. Join us for 8lauderdalehouse.org.uk Park. Tickets £5 per child, no charge for adults, marshmallow toasting, children’s games, homemade booking advised. 10.30am–12noon, 1pm–2.30pm. food & drink and much more! Ticketed, from £4 for Sun 14 Oct—Farmers Market at Forty Hall (EN2) 8www.dugdalecentre.co.uk adults, from £3 for children. 8www.wildwolfesu.org Come ready to fill your shopping bags with a bounty of local produce, including seasonal, organic veg Fri 26 Oct and Sat 27 Oct—Halloween at direct from the Farm’s market garden, rare breed Creepy Capel Manor (EN1) Crawl on over to our meat and sausages, and Forty Hall Vineyard’s award- Halloween event, meet our creepy creatures, dress winning wine – all set within the beautiful grounds of up in your spookiest outfit and enjoy fang-tastic

SCHOOLS IN: Crouch End Enfield Finchley Hendon Winchmore Hill

AND MORE!

3–18 years

TWO WEEK TRIAL AVAILABLE!

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

familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 17 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.

Artsdepot Chickenshed 5 Nether Street, North Southgate, N14 Finchley, N12 020 8292 9222 020 8369 5454 www.chickenshed.org.uk www.artsdepot.co.uk Fri 7 Sept to Fri 19 Oct — Planet Sat 20 Oct & Sun 21 Oct — Guess Play’s Thousand and One Days How Much I Love You “I love you Especially recommended for very right up to the moon – and back.” young children, join the Tales team Join Little & Big Nutbrown Hare, for a fun and interactive sensory from the bestselling Guess How session based on the stories and Much I Love You and I Love You All fables from our main summer Year Round collection, as they leap show, Tales from the Thousand and off the page and onto the stage One Nights. Every Friday at 10am, in this magical journey through running time 45 mins. Age 0–3. the seasons. Watch Little & Big Nutbrown Hare settle down after Fri 7 Sept to Sat 27 Oct — Tales a bedtime story and re-awaken to from the Shed Tales from the shed discover the delights and colours are vibrant, interactive theatre of each season as they compete to shows that are perfect for young The Enormous Turnip, Jackon Lane Theatre measure their love for each other in children. They are informal, lively and amazingly engaging as the this timeless story. Age 3+. staging, breathtaking physicality, friend Rabbit shows up the fun and performers and audience share the touching humour and a specially games really begin. Mix in some same space—children are always Sun 21 Oct — The Musicians of commissioned musical score. Age magic, a pinch of circus and a large encouraged to make a lot of noise Bremen This visually stunning 3–8. dollop of silliness and you have the and to make the story happen. adaptation by French company, recipe for a little adventure with a Every week we present different Compagnie Animotion, tells Fri 28 & Sat 29 Sept — Need a lot of laughs. Age 2–5. the tale of four animals put to stories featuring the same much Little Help Joe and Ella are a pasture, too old to be of any use loved characters—from Can-Can great team—they make each other Sun 30 Sep — Your Toys What have to their masters: a donkey, a cat, a the beautiful bird to laid back Lion laugh, help each other out and Buzz Lightyear, Barbie, the blue cockerel and a dog. The tumbling, Down and The Thing That Goes tackle all the chores their busy lives Brontosaurus and any other toy got musical adventure explores their Blurgh! Fridays at 11.30am and throw at them. But one morning in common? Answer: They all go on extraordinary friendships, showing Saturdays at 10am & 11.30am. Plus things begin to change when Joe a massive adventure together in that despite our differences, we shows on Half Term Dates: Tues 23– gets all tangled up and Ella has to Your Toys. A show like no other—one can be friends, and that we are Fri 26 Oct 1am & 11.30am. Running do things alone. What will Ella do that features your very own toys. A never too old to live our dreams. time 50 mins. Age 0–6. now? Will she be able to continue heartwarming story about friends With puppetry, movement and as before, or will it all get too pulling together, Your Toys is funny, trapeze, accompanied by live Cockpit Theatre much? If only she had a little help… full of music and surprises, and will music. Age 3–10. Gateforth Street, Based on the experiences of young send you home with a huge smile carers, the piece explores what it on your face. Age 4–9. Weds 24 to Sun 28 Oct — Mischief London, NW8 means to look after someone else and Mystery in Moomin Valley 020 7258 2925 when you are young. In a playful Sun 14 Oct — The Selfish Giant Open a book and discover a world www.thecockpit.org.uk and immersive space, the young Oscar Wilde’s classic tale is where anything is possible. Be audience will help the performers reimagined for the stage in this Sat 29 Sept — Wonky We are sure to pack your imagination look after each other, stepping into magical adventure for the whole delighted to return to The Cockpit and join us on an unforgettable the shoes of young carers. Age 2–7. family. In a very cold, grey town, journey to Moomin Valley where for the third time - and we’re ready hidden behind a crumbling wall, everyone is welcome, nature to cook up a storm with the public lives... the Selfish Giant. So selfish thrives and adventures are premiere of our brand new show! he shut away the garden where plentiful. Magical puppetry, an Take a large handful of nutrition, 269a Archway Road, the children used to play and ingenious set, original music a healthy dash of PE, a hearty London, N6 cursed the town to a never-ending and interactive play will delight portion of PSHE, and mix them 020 8341 4421 winter. Or so the story goes… But young audiences and encourage together with (clean) green fingers. www.jacksonslane.org.uk one curious child wants to find out them to immerse themselves in a Bake for 50 minutes against the the truth about what really lies unique participatory story-telling glittering backdrop of a dance Sun 23 Sep — Sleepyhead All Dad behind the wall. Age 3–7. experience. Age 3–7. competition. Add a dollop of peer wants is for Baby to go to sleep so pressure, serve with some celebrity he can catch up on a little shut- Tue 23 to Sat 27 Oct — The Thurs 25 to Fri 26 Oct — Stick culture and a garnish of gender eye too. But tonight, Baby has Enormous Turnip Get 15% off Man Touching, funny and utterly equality… et voilà! Can you help other ideas… As soon as Dad’s out tickets to Jacksons Lane’s half- original, Scamp Theatre’s delightful Olive and Messy Jesse save the of the way, Baby gets his hands on term show for families by quoting adaptation of Julia Donaldson and day as they encounter top chef the magic top hat, and when his JLFAMILIES when booking. Axel Scheffler’s Stick Man is back! Monsieur Nincompoop, cool rapper What starts off as a morning jog Rapper Cool Yo, and the enigmatic becomes quite the misadventure pop star Solar Pa’nelle—as Olive’s for Stick Man: a dog wants to play so-called best friend Trixie tries to fetch with him, a swan builds a thwart them at every turn? Plant a nest with him, and he even ends seed… and see what grows. Ages up on a fire! How will Stick Man 6+. ever get back to the family tree? Packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves. Age 3+. Half Moon Theatre 43 White Horse Road, Sat 27 to Sun 28 Oct — inTarsi London E1 After successfully touring all over 020 7709 8900 Europe, Catalan company Eia bring www.halfmoon.org.uk their award winning acrobatic theatre piece inTarsi to the UK 21 & Sat 22 Sept — Butterflies for the first time. Breath-taking Three friends embark on an acrobatic skills combined with wit, exciting adventure to chase humour and slick choreography their butterflies away. They cross make this show a perfect mix for all new seas to uncharted lands, on the family. It’s four guys hanging a journey filled with discovery. out, teasing and playing with each The only trouble is they’re all other, taunting and supporting a bit worried about it! During each other on an ingenious set their voyage the group ride the that constantly morphs into new waves, walk high bridges, skirt landscapes. Sometimes they work deep caves and climb to the sky, together and sometimes against before reaching dry land braver each other, but in the end they are than ever before. Join our intrepid connected by the strong bond that characters as they step into the is their common humanity. Age 5+. unknown in an uplifting tale of friendship, courage and facing your fears, told using innovative

18 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk Help save the day as Stuff and down a drain and whooshed out JUMPING ON THE BED!” Learn beware what you wish for, It may Nonsense pull the Enormous Turnip to sea, rescued by a fishing boat, to love counting during a riot of just come true! Bo is bored of out of the ground before it takes loaded onto a lorry, carried off by music, numbers and clowning in a the ordinary. He wants to stay over the planet! Living in their a seagull… how will he ever make it madcap monkey puppet zoo! Age up late, eat biscuits and conquer tiny shed squeezed in amongst back to Class One? Ages 3–8. 2–6. the world. One rainy afternoon, the garden tools, Mr and Mrs an invisible friend comes bursting Chickweed’s amazing prize- Fri 21 & Sat 22 Sep 2018— Fri 5 to Sun 21 Oct—The into his life, turning Bo’s ordinary winning vegetables have taken Sleepyhead It’s been a long day Adventures of Curious Ganz A world upside down. Wherever over everything. They can’t resist for Dad and he can hardly keep scientist is born! From the very Bo goes, his imaginary friend planting one last seed to try for his eyes open. All he wants is for beginning our hero Ganz is Curious. follows… he is there at breakfast one more champion vegetable and Baby to go to sleep so he can He investigates everything. From time, he’s there when Bo is one more trophy... But no one knew catch up on a little shut-eye too. the caterpillar to the stars Ganz trying to do his homework, he’s that a vegetable could grow so Dad’s usually got some tricks up his wants to observe and understand even there when Bo goes to the big! Age: 3+. sleeve to help send Baby off to the it all – is the earth flat or round? toilet! But where has this friend Land of Nod. But tonight, Baby has Does the sun travel around the come from? And will he ever Sun 4 Nov — You’ve Got Dragons other ideas… As soon as Dad’s out earth or earth around sun? Which leave? Packed full of puppetry, Lots of people get dragons: bad of the way, Baby gets his hands on came first, the chicken or the music, magic (and a sprinkle of dreams, swirly tummy, feeling the magic top hat, and when his egg? How does electricity travel? mischief), Invisible Me promises to prickly. And sometimes they make friend Rabbit shows up the fun and No stone is left unturned. His be an unforgettable experience for you feel alone. So, what can a games really begin! Mix in some investigations and inventions bring the whole family. Age 5–11. young child with a bad case of magic, a pinch of circus and a large him to the attention of Queen the dragons do? A delightful tale dollop of silliness and you have the Lizzy the First, a fellow adventurer, Thurs 25 to Sun 28 Oct — Hey of one child’s journey to come to recipe for a little adventure with a if only she could escape her skirts… Diddle Diddle When the full moon terms with their dragons, told in lot of laughs! Ages 2–5. The Adventures of Curious Ganz is shines bright there’s magic in the Taking Flight’s unique style. Age 3+. a fictitious story based on the true air, and all the animals come out Weds 3 to Sun 7 Oct — Five Little life of 16th century copper smelter to play. Stay up late with flying Monkeys The makers of the smash Joachim Ganz. It is a celebration cows, jazzy cats and runaway hit Dogs Don’t Do Ballet bring the of the new, the strange, the brave crockery and as we jump and jive 14 Dagmar Passage, universally popular song Five Little and the curious! Told through to the music in a brilliant new take Cross St, N1 Monkeys to life. Packed with bold, design, table-top puppetry, music on the classic nursery rhyme. Ever 020 7226 1787 engaging puppets and music from and a few words, all wildly based wondered how a cow jumped over www.littleangeltheatre.com dub reggae and funky rapping on the principles of alchemy. Age the moon? Or why the dish ran to classical ballet. Join Sue the 7+. away with the spoon? With original Thurs 13 Sep to Sun 11 Nov — The Zoo Keeper as she struggles to songs played live on stage, brilliant Everywhere Bear The Everywhere get mischievous Little Monkey to Mon 22 to Weds 24 Oct — Invisible puppetry and lots of laughter, this Bear has a wonderful time with the bed and discovers that numbers Me Bo’s life is boring, So he plays new show is a wild and musical children in Class One, but one day are all around us. Keep an eye ‘let’s pretend’, And he draws with celebration about the importance he gets more than he bargained out as unexpected household his crayons, An imaginary friend. of imagination. Age 3–8. for when he falls unnoticed from objects transform into the doctor, But his friend is not helpful, He’s a backpack and embarks on his warning “NO MORE MONKEYS bad through and through. So own big adventure! He’s washed

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