IN THIS ISSUE Walk the halls – State and Independent school Open Day directory FEATURE: Find the local Club/Class/Activity to suit your diary and your child!

Issue 123 September 2018 familiesonline.co.uk Welcome to the September issue!

CONTACT US:

Families North West WALondonTFORD Magazine BUSHEY RICKMANSWORTH Editors: Heather Waddington and Janine Mergler M1 P.O. Box 2378, WD18M25 1RF NORTHWOOD EDGWARE T: 01923 237 004 E: [email protected] WEALD HAREFIELD KINGSBURY HARROW WEST Listings and Features Editor: RUISLIP HENDON ICKENHAM DOLLIS HILL Anna Blackshaw E: [email protected] PARK NORTHOLT BRONDESBURY PARK www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk WEMBLEY UXBRIDGE A40 QUEENS PARK WILLESDEN KILBURN www.facebook.com/FamiliesNWLondon

@FamiliesNWLon

Readership of over 60,000 local parents, carers and teachers every issue. Published seven times a year. For families from birth to twelve. UPCOMING ISSUES: October 2018 - ‘Education and Schools’ Deadline: 10th September 2018 Nov/Dec 2018 - ‘Seasonal Celebrations’ Deadline: 10th October 2018 Send in your news, stories and advertising bookings to the details above.

Feature images used under license from depositphotos.com. Other IN THIS ISSUE: images have been supplied by independent sources. 5 Back to School – Oral Health 6 Education 12 State school Open Days Families North West Magazine is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. 14 Independent School Open Days All franchised magazines in the group are 16 Choosing the right activity for independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB your child Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow 24 Educating your children about Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents Social Media of Families NW London Magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial 26 What”s On or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families North West London Magazine. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Cover image: North West London Magazine, its distributors, the depositphotos.com franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

Families North West London Magazine is distributed Where is Families bi-monthly throughout north west London. An area North West London? 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.

2 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk NEWS North London celebrates! New Children’s Ballet & Street Dance Classes in Wembley The London of Gymnastics and Dance first opened classes in Wembley in April this year at the . With a brand new Sports Hall and all the latest gymnastics equipment, they have proved to be very popular NLGS has been awarded ‘Outstanding’ in all categories from their recent with local families. From September Ofsted inspection. there will be an exciting additional The school is situated on Colindeep Lane in Colindale, Hendon NW9 6HB and programme of Ballet and Street has been at this site for four years. A family oriented modern Grammar School, Dance in the Academy’s purpose- Ofsted found they are dedicated to providing a safe, caring and aspirational built Dance Studio, plus additional environment for each child to promote their academic and personal Gymnastics classes for children of all abilities aged 3½ to 11 years old. development in a rich, nurturing and protected climate. “We are fortunate to have a team of highly-trained and experienced Other recent achievements include winning 2 gold and 2 silver medals from Gymnastic Coaches and Dance Instructors who are able to bring out the the International Genuis Olympiad in New York for their 2-year science project best in every child, whatever their ability.” Jessica Shenton, Founder & centred around the possibility of creating a coral bank. Director, LAGAD Head teacher Mr Hakan Gokce states “NLGS prides on every pupil’s academic To reserve places and/or book a Trial Class visit www.lagad.co.uk or and pastoral well-being. Our vision is for every NLGS pupil to become excellent contact us by email [email protected] or phone 0208 883 4675 role models, citizens and extend to become outstanding community leaders.” And Pupils are equally proud of their school, “When I heard that our school got awarded outstanding I felt very proud because I knew we earned it. I love being a part of a small school because I know pretty much everyone in the school and all the teachers know me.” Saadet Cifci, Year 8. Schools join research into To read the full report visit their website http://northlondongrammar.com the effect of air pollution on children’s health Local MP Guest of Honour Over 3,000 primary school children in polluted areas of London and Luton will have at School Prize Giving Day their lung health monitored over a four-year Visitation Day at Prep School period in a new international study led by is always a very special occasion for Queen Mary University of London, launched all the children and staff at the school. by the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan. This year was made all the more special The CHILL study (Children’s Health in London with the Guest of Honour Oliver & Luton) is funded by the National Institute for Dowden MP. Health Research. It will test whether policies to The School’s Visitation Day event saw improve air quality, such as London’s new Ultra pupils aged from 4 to 11 rewarded for Low Emission Zone (ULEZ)*, are associated their all hard work, in front of friends, with improved growth of children’s lungs and reduced chest symptoms. teachers and parents. Researchers from the University of Bedfordshire and Queen Mary University of London are currently recruiting schools to take part. Mr Dowden gave an informative speech, enjoyed by all, before handing out the well-deserved prizes. He said: ‘It was a real pleasure to present The children will have an annual health check for four years that includes the prizes at Aldenham Prep. This wonderful day rightly recognised its measuring the size and function of their lungs by blowing into a machine students’ impressive achievements this year and I very much enjoyed the called a spirometer. chance to speak to them about their work. I’m grateful to everyone at the Professor Gurch Randhawa from the University of Bedfordshire said: “We School for their warm hospitality and look forward to visiting again.’ urgently need to know whether our public health policies on air pollution are Mrs Gocher, Headmistress at Aldenham Prep added ‘It was a pleasure to effective. This timely study enables us to measure accurately their impact on welcome Mr Dowden to Aldenham Prep and we hopefully will be able to children’s health.” welcome him again in the future’. More information, including how to join the study, can be found on the CHILL website: https://www.qmul.ac.uk/chill/

familiesonline.co.uk Families North West London 3 NEWS

Local children’s class Families and communities provider wins award urged to register for UK Claire Taylor, who runs Monkey Music classes in Harrow, Uxbridge and Edgware, has been recognised with a top award Road Safety Week and help in the annual Monkey Music Franchise Awards 2018. protect those on bikes The Ambassador Award recognises Claire’s Families and community groups outstanding contribution to Monkey Music. can now register for Road Safety More than 300 children now attend Monkey Week 2018 (19–25 November), Music classes in Harrow, Uxbridge and the UK’s biggest road safety Edgware and Claire’s dedication to giving event. Road safety charity Brake, her families a fun and educational musical which coordinates the event, learning experience every week was, in the is encouraging parents and opinion of the judges, exceptional. community leaders to go to www.roadsafetyweek.org.uk to get ideas on Claire said, “I’m obviously delighted to receive this award, I love my work with campaigning for safer local roads and register for a free online action pack. Monkey Music – sharing the wonder of music with young families is always Parents and community road safety champions can access free electronic a pleasure – and I’d like to thank all my wonderful teachers for helping me to resources and guidance to help them get involved. Go to www. share that experience. I look forward to welcoming many more new babies roadsafetyweek.org.uk/communities for ideas and to register for a free and young children to Monkey Music very soon!” online action pack. This will include downloadable, interactive resources for If you’d like to know more about your local Monkey Music classes or both children and adults, advice on how to campaign for safer streets, and to book a FREE class contact Claire Taylor on 0208 427 6595 or email case studies showing how other groups have got involved in previous years. [email protected] or visit the Monkey Music website at: This year Brake will develop new age-appropriate resources to raise www.monkeymusic.co.uk awareness about the importance of everyone being Bike Smart. For younger children, the focus will be on inspiring and engaging pupils about how to be smart when riding a bike and helping them call for smarter cycle routes, so they can get about safely on two wheels. For young people and adults, resources will cover the benefits and dangers of cycling, but also the importance of being smart on the road, by looking out for bikes when driving and by making smart choices when riding a motorbike. REGISTER NOW! Register at www.roadsafetyweek.org.uk/communities to get a free online action pack. Plus, stay in touch by following @ BrakeCharity and tweet about the Week using #roadsafetyweek and #BikeSafe Local girls invited to dance at Royal Academy of Dance summer event Local School raises £1000 The van Niekerk Academy of Dance was established in 2001 and over the years has for charity produced outstanding exam results, as well Whitchurch Primary School and Nursery​ representatives from Year as many successful students into full time 6, and others from Whitchurch alumni together with Mrs Portou vocational dance schools, associates and (Assistant Headteacher for Upper Key Stage 2) and Mr Sanghani (Chair professional dance companies. Pictured of Governors), were very pleased to present a cheque for £1,000 to are students Tiara Maqedonci and Victoria Mr Ramesh Bhanderi from St. Luke’s Hospice on Wednesday 18th July James (with festival ballet and character 2018. cups) - both girls were invited to perform Over two years, pupils in Year 6 have carried out a variety of enterprise by the Royal Academy of Dance at their events in order to raise money for their chosen charity. Mr Bhanderi sent summer event at Battersea Square. his thanks to all the pupils for their amazing efforts. For further information on classes please contact Suzanne at [email protected]

4 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk Education

Back to school: Tips to ensure your child’s oral health is top of the class

illions of British children are sugary foods and drinks and instead opt for about to join their classmates breadsticks, vegetables and even cheese, with pristine uniforms, shiny which is a great choice as their helps remove Mshoes, fresh stationery sets harmful acid. Your kids get a better idea of and yet unmuddied PE kit. But the UK’s what is healthy and what is not, helping not leading oral health charity, the Oral Health only their oral health but overall health. Foundation, is worried that too many children will head off to school missing one The best brush: Choose a small-to-medium- vitally important piece of kit; a clean and sized toothbrush with soft-to-medium healthy mouth. bristles. This is the perfect size for your During the morning school rush there’s a child’s mouth. Don’t forget to replace the real chance that many children don’t spend toothbrush regularly, when the bristles enough time brushing their teeth. Or decide become worn, and after illness. to grab a sugary snack on their way out of The last straw: Try to teach your children rule – brush your teeth last thing at night the door. on the best healthy drinks to have in their and at least one other time during the day lunchboxes, such as water and milk. If they Here are our simple steps to make sure with a fluoride toothpaste. For parents, it’s a children’s teeth get top marks: do have sugary drinks, teach them to use good idea to watch your children until they a straw when drinking. This helps sugar Start early: This is vitally important as it sets are confident they can be trusted to brush and acid in the drink go to the back of their them up for life. As soon as your baby’s for the full two minutes unsupervised. This mouth and reduces the number of bacteria teeth come through you should brush them usually happens around the age of seven. attacks on their teeth. every day. Also, make an appointment with a Tasty tooth times: Children are often fussy dentist to make sure everything is developing about flavours of food that they eat. The For more information and advice on how okay and get tips on how to look after your flavour of toothpaste is no different, so let to keep your children’s oral health ahead of little one’s teeth. Making tooth-brushing a them pick one they like. the class, call the Oral Health Foundation’s family activity is a great way to help young Dietary duty: Educating on diet is important Dental Helpline on 01788 539780 for children understand the importance of a too. Get your kids to pack their own expert, free and impartial advice. healthy mouth. healthy lunch and snacks for school. Avoid www.dentalhealth.org Two minutes twice a day: The most basic

familiesonline.co.uk Families North West London 5 Education

Ask a Local Parent… about their experience with Explore Learning

Explore Learning provides maths and What advice would you give to other English tuition to children aged four parents thinking about bringing their to 14, with 139 centres across the children to Explore? country. Families caught up with an Explore We would advise them to attend a ‘free’ Learning member to find out more about trial session with their child at a centre their experience. convenient to them. Once booked, we are sure your child will be hooked! How long have you been going to Explore? Emily joined Explore Learning over 3 years How do Explore tutors support your ago. child in their sessions? The tutors always make Emily Why did you decide to join Explore? feel welcome to each and every Learning worked with Emily To help raise Emily’s low self-esteem and to session. They are supportive towards prior to her starting her provide her with some confidence with her Emily by being friendly, approachable and SATS to ensure her learning was learning and within herself. encouraging. The tutors will praise good set at the correct level and in line with work or any difficulties that Emily has the National Curriculum. She went into How has Explore helped/what impact has overcome during the session. At the end her SATS at school feeling confident and Explore had? of each session the tutor provides feedback happy. Emily is about to start her first term They have provided Emily with the tools to us as parents, which help us to follow at Senior School and Explore will help with to enable her to take pride in her work, Emily’s progress. the smooth transition from Junior School to whilst learning and gaining confidence. It Senior School by ensuring her learning will has taught Emily how to prioritise her work How has Explore supported what your be set at the right level. whilst completing the work within the child is working on at school? required timescales. This was a weakness of Since attending Explore, her school work Get in touch with Explore Learning today Emily’s prior to joining but is now no longer and self-confidence has significantly by calling 033 0124 3802 to discuss your a concern to us as her parents or her school improved. Emily recently sat her SATS tests child’s need and book your free trial. teachers. at Junior School and her great results can Alternatively, visit explorelearning.co.uk to be attributed to attending Explore. Explore find your nearest centre

6 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk Education

Call us to arrange an individual appointment

familiesonline.co.uk Families North West London 7 Education

The Eleven Plus is Transforming

amilies with children seeking entrance to selective schools at 11+ have been worried to hear about the big changes Fbeing 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 change this year is the stated aim to really and maths skills, plus plenty of timed should only be attempted where the child understand the way the child thinks. This practice including the various reasoning has been academically assessed as having means children will benefit from practice in tests. These changing 11+ exams may be the innate ability to succeed, with or without answering the type of questions that would intended to be remove the advantage of tutoring support. reveal the way they think through their tutoring help, but it is a fact that well-guided Key changes answers before delivering them. practice and preparation for any exam are GL and CEM are the two different exam never wasted! State schools are now increasing their use of boards that are the examiners for the 11+ computerised tests, including cognitive and in virtually all regions where the 11+ is still JK Educate are experts in preparing abstract reasoning. Practising these types used. Both boards cover broadly the same children for the 11+ exams for state of challenges can develop performance 11+ topics - English, maths, verbal and non- selective and independent schools. They and help a child achieve to the best of their verbal reasoning/spatial awareness exercises. also offer academic assessments, including ability on the day. It is vital that you know which exam board is suitability for the 11+. If you would like more Interviews are often an important element being used, but the key focus areas for either information, contact JK Educate on 020 for independent schools, and a key should be the development of vocabulary 3488 0754 or at jkeducate.co.uk

8 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk Education

familiesonline.co.uk Families North West London 9 Education Making the most of Open Days by Claire Winter

his autumn, state and independent and families looking for a school place for schools will be opening their doors the following year. It’s a good idea to start to prospective pupils and their looking a year in advance. You can then Tparents to give them a flavour of revisit the schools you are most interested in life at their school. Claire Winter has the with your child the following year. lowdown on how to get the best out of Independent schools often hold Open Days these Open Days and tours. throughout the Autumn and Spring terms. They can have waiting lists for Reception- What is an Open Day? age children or require children to take a School open days help you decide what school-specific 7+ or 11+ exam to gain a school you want your child to go to. During place, so you need find out the criteria for an open day, prospective parents are shown entry to the school and visit well in advance. around the school to give them a flavour of and allow them to pursue a broad range of the working life of the school and the school Tips for Visiting an Open Day interests? environment. Take your child with you. There is no point in Academic performance is a top priority for Sometimes pupils are given the task of falling in love with a school only to find your many families. It’s a good idea to see how showing parents around the school. This child does not want to go there. the school is performing compared to other is a great opportunity to ask them how Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Make sure local schools, using exam league tables and they enjoy being at the school. Usually, the you ask the pupils what they think of the Ofsted reports. head teacher or a senior member of staff school. If, after the all your initial visits, you are still also gives a talk which includes a general undecided, go back and visit the schools on overview of the school and its values and Don’t make decisions on individual teachers. your shortlist again during a normal working ethos. They often move on and large departments have a variety of teachers that will rotate day. When Are They Held? every year to teach your child a particular Finally, in making your decision, don’t be subject. State schools generally hold Open Days in afraid to trust your instincts; you know your September and October aimed at children What extra-curricular activities do they have? child and you are best placed to ascertain Are there clubs that will engage your child what is right for them.

10 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk Education

familiesonline.co.uk Families North West London 11 Education - State School Open Days

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

Schools in ‘HA’ Postcode

Alperton Community School Wembley HA0 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 020 8902 2038 www..brent.sch.uk Wembley High Technology College Wembley HA0 Boys and Girls 11-19 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 020 8385 4800 www.whtc.co.uk Harrow HA1 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment. [email protected] www.hhsweb.org The Jubilee Academy Harrow HA1 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 0203 096 1221 www.thejubileeacademy.org.uk Harrow HA2 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 020 8422 4675 www.rooksheath.harrow.sch.uk Harrow HA2 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 020 8864 7688 www.whitmore.harrow.sch.uk Claremont High School Harrow HA3 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment 020 8204 4442 www.claremont-high.org.uk Hatch End High School Harrow HA3 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 020 8428 4330 www.hatchend.harrow.sch.uk

JFS Harrow HA3 Boys and Girls 11-19 yrs www..brent.sch.uk Open Day: Thu 11 Oct, 4.30pm. 020 8206 3100

The Sacred Heart Language College Harrow HA3 Girls 11-16 yrs Open Day: Wed 12 Sep, 6.30-8.30pm; Thu 20 Sep, 4-6pm. www.tshlc.harrow.sch.uk 020 8863 9922 Salvatorian Roman Catholic College Harrow HA3 Boys 11-18 yrs Open Day: Sept (date TBC). 020 8863 2706 www.salvatoriancollege.com Bishop Ramsey Church of School Ruislip HA4 Open Day: By appointment. 01895 639227 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.bishopramsey.hillingdon.sch.uk Queensmead School Ruislip HA4 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: Sep (date TBC) 020 8845 6266 www.queensmeadschool.org.uk Ruislip High School Ruislip HA4 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 01895 464064 www.ruisliphigh.com

Haydon School Pinner HA5 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.haydonschool.com Open Day: Thu 27 Sep, 6-8.30pm. 020 8429 0005

Nower Hill High School Pinner HA5 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: Tue 25 Sep. 020 8863 0877 www.nowerhill.org.uk Northwood School Northwood HA6 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: Mon 8 Oct, 5.30-8.30pm.01923 836363 www.northwoodschool.org.uk Stanmore HA7 Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 020 8954 3623 www.bentleywood.harrow.sch.uk Park High School Stanmore HA7 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment 020 8952 2803 www.parkhighstanmore.org.uk Edgware HA8 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: Wed 26 Sep 5- 8pm; Mon 1 &Tue 2 Oct 9.15-10.30am – www.canons.harrow.sch.uk (appt only). 020 8951 5780. Ark Elvin Academy Wembley HA9 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: Tue 18 Sep, 5pm, Wed 19 Sep, 9.30am, Wed 26 Sep, www.arkelvinacademy.org 9.30am, Tue 2 Oct, 5pm, Wed 3 Oct, 9.30am. 020 8902 6362 Michaela Community School Wembley HA9 Boys and Girls 11-19 yrs Open Day: By appointment. [email protected] www.mcsbrent.co.uk

Schools in ‘NW’ Postcode

The Crest Academy London NW2 Boys and Girls 11-19 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 020 8452 4842 www.thecrestacademy.org Hampstead School London NW2 Boys and Girls 11-19 yrs Open Day: Tue 18 & Tue 25 Sep, Tue 2, Tue 9 & Tue 16 Oct, all 9am; www.hampsteadschool.org.uk Thu 27 Sep, 5.30pm. 020 7794 8133 Menorah High School for Girls London NW2 Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 020 8208 0500 www.menorahhigh.org Whitefield School London NW2 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: Wed 26 Sep, 4.30pm. 0208 455 4114 www.whitefield.barnet.sch.uk Marylebone Boys’ School London NW6 Boys 11-18 yrs Open Day: Wed 26 Sep, 5.30-7.30pm; Thu 4 Oct 9-10.30am; Tue 9 www.maryleboneschool.org Oct 9-10.30am. [email protected] St Augustine’s CofE High School London NW6 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 0207 328 3434 www.staugustineshigh.org Kingsbury High School Kingsbury NW9 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment 020 8206 3000 www.kingsburyhigh.org.uk St James’ Catholic High School Colindale NW9 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 020 8358 2800 www.st-james.barnet.sch.uk

12 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk Education - State School Open Days

Capital City Academy London NW10 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: Fri 21 Sep, Sat 22 Sep, Mon 1 Oct, Wed 10 Oct, Fri 12 Oct. www.capitalcityacademy.org Wed 17 Oct, Tue 30 Oct. 020 8838 8700 Convent of Jesus and Mary Language College London NW10 Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 020 8965 2986 www.cjmlc.co.uk Newham Catholic College London NW10 Boys and Girls 11-19 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 0208 965 3947 www.ncc.brent.sch.uk

Schools in ‘UB’ Postcode

Northolt High School Northolt UB5 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 020 8864 8544 www.northolthigh.org.uk William Perkin CofE High School Greenford UB6 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 020 8832 8950 www.williamperkin.org.uk The Harefield Academy Uxbridge UB9 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: Wed 19 Sep, 6-8.30pm. 01895 827961 www.theharefieldacademy.org

Schools in ‘WD’ Postcode

Rickmansworth School Rickmansworth WD3 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: Thu 27 Sep, 5.30-9pm. 01923 773296 www.rickmansworth.herts.sch.uk Rickmansworth WD3 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: Sat 6 Oct. [email protected] www.stclementdanes.org.uk St Joan of Arc Catholic School Rickmansworth WD3 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: Thu 4 Oct, Fri 5 Oct. 01923 773881 www.joa.herts.sch.uk The Reach Free School Watford WD18 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: Sat 29 Sep. 01923 224764 www.reachfreeschool.co.uk Watford Grammar School for Boys Watford WD18 Boys 11-18 yrs Open Day: Sat 29 Sep, 9am-12pm. 01923 208900 www.watfordboys.org Watford Grammar School for Girls Watford WD18 Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: Mon 8 Oct. 01923 223403 www.watfordgrammarschoolforgirls.org.uk Watford WD18 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 01923 231560 www.westfield.herts.sch.uk Bushey WD23 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 020 8950 3000 www.busheymeads.org.uk The Bushey Academy Bushey WD23 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 020 8950 9502 www.thebusheyacademy.org Queen’s School Bushey WD23 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: October (date TBC) 01923 224465 www.queens.herts.sch.uk The Watford UTC Watford WD24 Boys and Girls 14-19 yrs Open Day: Sat 8 Sep, 10am-12pm. 01923 905240 www.watfordutc.org Francis Combe Academy Watford WD25 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment. 01923 672964 www.franciscombeacademy.org.uk Parmiter’s School Watford WD25 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: Thur 4 Oct, 4-8.30pm. 01923 671424 www.parmiters.herts.sch.uk St Michael’s Catholic High School Watford WD25 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: Fri 21 Sep, 9am. admissions@ www.stmichaelscatholichighschool.co.uk stmichaelscatholichighschool.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk Families North West London 13 Education - Independent School Open Days

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

Aldenham School WD6 Boys and Girls 3-18 yrs (Boarding/Day) Open Day: Wed 3 Oct 930-1130 and Sat 6 Oct 10am-12:30pm. Prep [email protected] School 01923 851664. Senior School 01923 858122

Alpha Preparatory School Harrow HA1 Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs. Open Day: By appointment 0208 427 1471 www.alpha.harrow.sch.uk

Buckingham Prep School Pinner HA5 Boys School 4-11 years Open Day: By appointment. 020 8866 2737. www.buckprep.org

Open Day: Thurs 20th & Sat 22nd September 2018 9.30am-11.30am Charlotte House Prep School Rickmansworth WD3 Our girls are confident and enthusiastic to learn. Our motto, ‘I am, I Girls 3-11 yrs can, I ought, I will’ radiates from every classroom and we are often www.charlottehouseprepschool.co.uk told one can spot a Charlotte House girl from her enthusiasm and unassuming self-confidence. We have high expectations and help all reach their potential in our positive, nurturing environment.

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School Elstree WD6 Open Day: Sat 6 Oct (Prep & Senior); Sat 3 Nov (Pre-Prep).. 020 Boys 5-18 yrs. www.habsboys.org.uk 8266 1700 Open Day: Sen Sch for 2019 entry – Wed 3 Oct, Tue 16 Oct, Thu Haberdashers’ Aske’s Girls’ School Elstree WD6 8 Nov, Thu 15 Nov, Mon 19 Nov, all 9.15am.020 8266 2302 email Girls 4-18 yrs. www.habsgirls.org.uk [email protected] School Watford WD25, Boys and Girls 6 months – 11 Open Day: By appointment.. 01923 681103 years. www.highelmsmanorschool.com

The John Lyon School HA2. Boys 11-18 yrs. Open Day: Sat 22 Sep, 9.30am-12pm. 020 8515 9400 www.johnlyon.org

Krishna Avanti Primary School Edgware HA8. Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs.www. Open Day: By appointment. 020 8381 3344 avanti.org.uk/kapsharrow

Merchant Taylor’s Prep Rickmansworth WD3 Boys 4-13. Northwood HA6 Open Day: Sen Sch: Sat 22 Sep, 10am-12.30pm. Prep: Thu 4 Oct, Boys 11-18yrs www.mtpn.org.uk www.mtsn.org.uk 9.45am-12noon. 01923 825648 (Prep) 01923 845514 (Senior) Open Day: Jun Sch: Sat 29 Sep, 10am-12.30pm. 11+: Fri 23 Nov, North London Collegiate School Edgware HA8 Girls 4-18yrs. Wed 28 Nov, both 1.30-3.45pm. Jun Sch 020 8952 1276, Sen Sch www.nlcs.org.uk 020 8951 6481/6468. Northwood College Northwood HA6. Girls 3-18 yrs. Open Day: Sat 6 Oct, 1-4pm (whole school); Wed 7 Nov, 9.30-11am www.northwoodcollege.gdst.net (Sen Sch); Fri 9 Nov, 9.30-11am (Early Yrs & Jun Sch) 01923 825446.

North London Grammar School London NW9 Boys & Girls 11-18 yrs. Open Day: Wed 17 Oct 0208 205 0052 www.northlondongrammar.com

Orley Farm Harrow-on-the-Hill HA1 Boys and Girls 4-13yr Open Day: Sat 6 Oct, 10am. 020 8869 7634/7600 www.orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk

Quainton Hall School Harrow, HA1. Boys 2.5-13yrs, Girls 2.5-11 yrs. www. Open Day: Sat 22 Sep, 10am-12.30pm. quaintonhall.org.uk [email protected] 020 8861 8861

Reddiford School Pinner HA5 Boys and Girls 2yrs 9months – 11 yrs. Open Day: By appointment. 020 8866 0660 www.reddiford.co.uk

Roxeth Mead School HA2 Boys & Girls 3months-7yrs. www.roxethmead.com Open Day: By appointment. 020 8422 2092

The Royal Masonic School for Girls Rickmansworth WD3 – Ruspini House Open Day: Sun 7 Oct, 2pm; Mon 8 & Tue 9 Oct (morning). 01923 Pre School (boys and girls aged 2-4) Cadogan House Pre-Prep and Prep 725354 Department (girls aged 4-11), Senior School (girls aged 11-18) St John’s CofE Primary School Watford WD17 Boys and Girls 4-11 yrs Open Day: Wed 3 Oct, Wed 10 Oct, both 9am. 01923 255 017 www.watfordstjohns.org

St Helen’s College Hillingdon UB10 Boys & Girls 2-11 yrs Open Day: Tue 30 Oct, 9am-12pm 01895 234 371 www.sthelenscollege.com

Open Day: Sat 22 Sep, 9.30am-12.30pm; Wed 7 & Thu 8 Nov, 9am- St Helen’s School Northwood HA6 Girls 3-18 yrs www.sthelens.london 12pm; Wed 17 Oct, 9am-4pm (6th form). 01923 843230

St Hilda’s Preparatory School for Girls Bushey WD23 3-11yrs. Open Day: By appointment, 9.30am. 0208 950 1751 www.sthildasbushey.com

St John’s School Northwood HA6 Boys aged 3-13. Open Day: Wed 10 Oct, both 9am. 020 8866 0067 www.st-johns.org.uk Open Day: Sat 22 Sep, 9.15am (Open Day); Wed 17 Oct, Wed 14 St. Margaret’s School Bushey WD23 Girls 4-18 yrs Nov, both 9.15am (School at Work); Thu 15 Nov, 5.30pm (Boarding); (boarding/day) www.stmargaretsbushey.co.uk 020 8901 0872 St. Martin’s School Northwood HA6. Boys 3-13 yrs Open Day: Fri 5 & Sat 6 Oct, 10am-12pm. 01923 825 740 www.stmartins.org.uk

York House Rickmansworth WD3. Boys and Girls 3-13 yrs Open Day: Sat 6 Oct, 9.30am-12pm (Nursery-yr 8) 01923 772 395 www.york-house.com

14 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk Education

familiesonline.co.uk Families North West London 15 Local Clubs and Classes Directory

Choosing the right Club or Class for your child By Claire Winter

They now train two to three times a week Think about Cost and compete at least once a month. It’s a Some activities are more expensive than big commitment for the whole family but others. 1:1 tuition or private lessons are more they absolutely love it. costly, whereas classes and team sports tend to cost less. Guiding or Scouts is an Things to Consider: inexpensive club to join, and it’s great for team building and trying a variety of different Try Before You Buy activities. Investigate this option ahead of Trial classes are a great way for them to time though, as there can be waiting lists. experience something before you sign up for icking the right extra-curricular a term or group of classes. Many clubs and How Many? activities for your child can classes offer a free trial before you sign up. How many activities are too many? This sometimes be overwhelming. is really up to you but if you are tired of There are a huge variety of sports Try a Variety driving your children to all of their activities, P Variety is the spice of life. If your schedule and classes available now from coding to it’s likely your child will be too; perhaps allows it, get your children to try a few Mandarin, from street dance to circus skills, you are doing too much. Equally, if your different things on a trial basis. If they are not as well as more traditional sports. Here’s children are bored at home and asking to be keen on trying something new, get them to our guide to help you choose the most entertained, maybe it’s time to sign them up go with a friend. appropriate club or class for your child. for something new. A good place to start is to ask your child Can you Commit? Take note of cancellation term what they are interested in. It’s likely that Some activities involve early morning Some classes require a term or ½ term they will enjoy the activity if they have picked practice or games at the weekend. Can notice to discontinue – make sure you have it themselves. My 11 year old twin girls have your family life and schedule accommodate the conversation with your child about tried a wide variety of classes, which they the commitment needed? If your child continuing before the cut off to avoid enjoyed but didn’t want to continue. When plays sport competitively, it can often mean wasting time and money on unwanted I last asked them what they wanted to do, training daily or at least three times a week. they said they wanted to join a running club. experience. Put a date in your diary to sit down and discuss the next terms plans.

www.activetime.co.uk

16 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk Compiled by Anna Blackshaw Local Clubs and Classes Directory

Capital Connection Chorus - female A capella harmony (HA4) Calling women who love to sing! Particularly need lower range voices at present. Perfect way to meet new friends and sing with a great group of women. Wed night 7.45pm to 10.30pm at Ruislip Community Centre.  www.capitalconnection.org.uk Eggless Cake Delights (HA) offer eggless baking, cake decorating and dessert classes for kids & adults in Harrow. Classes are held in small groups in hands on and Demo format, during weekdays, weekends and during term holidays in a friendly environment.  07737847405 or [email protected].  www. egglesscakedelights.com Meditation Every second and fourth Thursday of the month, 8.00pm at the Stables, House Gardens, Eastcote Village, HA5 2FE Feel energised, increase happiness, improve mental clarity and memory recall, flush out negative thoughts and improve physical and mental health. Ten minute stress Jigsaw relief treatment for newcomers.Cost: FREE (voluntary charity donations welcomed). No booking needed, all welcome. For more information contact Alexandra Barrett  [email protected],  0775 334 90 24 Manor, for 1-10 years boys & girls include invitations, party PARTIES leader & assistant(s), freshly prepared food, decorations, music, Movers and Shapers (NW6) Fitness with babies in tow. Book Mini Maniacs are an Award Finalist Party Entertainment Busi- lights, games, dancing, props and prizes. Optional extras - adult online. www.moversandshapers.co.uk 020 7624 8687 ness. Specialising in themed and non themed children’s parties refreshments, face-painting and party bags. Lots of themes [email protected] for 1-9 year olds. From princesses to Discos, Bouncy Castles to from Princesses and Super Heroes to Monsters, Trolls, Makers Yogabellies Aquabellies (various) Beautiful water based Mascots, we have it all. Our reviews are outstanding and our and Mad Hatters! Modern & clean venue.  01895 624755  yoga classes for women throughout their lives. The sessions entertainers are unbelievable. Book today to see the magic for [email protected] www.thewindmillstudio.com incorporate traditional yoga asanas (postures) adapted for yourself! 07711980132  [email protected] www. water, water relaxations and positive life building experiences facebook.com/theMiniManiacs www.twitter.com/theMiniManiacs for women, mothers and mothers to be. There are AquaBellies www.mini-maniacs.com CLASSES FOR GROWN-UPS - Aquanatal yoga for pregnancy, AquaMamas, post natal and Perform Parties - Based around a colourful theme, Perform’s Adult Art Classes in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, painting and mixed AquaBelles aqua yoga classes suitable for all women. NEW energetic party leaders use a magical mix of songs, games and media art classes for adults. Weekday morning studio sessions in YogaBelles: yoga designed for a unique women’s body.  laughter to create fun-filled, action-packed parties. Call 0207 a relaxed, supportive environment.  020 8954 2897 or 07500 07840 904887  [email protected] www.yogabellies. 255 9120 or visit performparties.co.uk 006 099  [email protected] co.uk/members/anjli Silly Millie the Clown - parties for 3 - 9 year olds. Funny magic BaB – Bring a Baby courses for adults. All Bring a Baby Courses Zest For Life Studio is a new secret fitness oasis for vitality and show, puppet’s, party games, silly songs & balloon animals. are designed for you, the grown up, but are fun and engaging wellness near you. Let me welcome you in my garden studio to 020 7823 8329 or 07939 239 397  www.sillymillietheclown. for your kids too. Their courses get 5* reviews because they share an invigorating hour of zesty fitness, a unique programme co.uk make it possible for you to learn a new skill and be with your of toning circuit & zumba: enjoy a variety of class at 9am, a children. Photography, Knitting, Embroidery, Cake Decorating personal touch, small group of 6-8. In&outdoor classes. The Windmill Studio Centre (HA4) Fun for kids, hassle-free for marion.bignone.zumba.com - [email protected] parents, birthday parties at The Windmill Studio Centre, Ruislip and more.  www.bab-courses.co.uk Continued on page 18

The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance • Ballet classes for boys & girls aged 3-18 • Outstanding Royal Academy of Dance examinations results • Established 17 years in Stanmore • Successful places at Royal Ballet School, Tring Park, Central School of Ballet, London Senior/Junior Ballet, London Studio Centre, Ballet West • Numerous cups/medallists – British Federation of Festivals • Contemporary/Jazz classes • Mat Pilates for adults and senior ballet students Suzanne Van Niekerk (RAD Qualified Teacher) T: 020 8950 2457 www.vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk “Develop poise, technique and expression through dance”

familiesonline.co.uk Families North West London 17 Local Clubs and Classes Directory

Road, Wembley Park HA9 9FX. £2.00  0208 385 1836  [email protected] The Northwood Speech and Language Therapy Practice (HA6) An Independent Practice providing an exceptionally high quality, caring and individualised service for promoting the communication needs of children. We offer Speech and Language Therapy sessions within a modern clinic base, nurseries and schools. 01923 824 074 07956 994721  www.northwoodpractice.co.uk Portuguese for Children (NW6) Every Saturday, from 10am to 12pm, the International Gospel Church on Belsize Road will be open for children from 4 to 12 years of Brazilian-English parents to enrol. Lessons will include how to read and write and Brazilian culture, including music. Lessons run from September and February 2016 and are free.  [email protected] Guju Tots Swagatham! Kem Chho? Come along to a FREE taster of these fun-filled 45 minute classes in NW London to help kids 6 months to 5 years learn Gujarati through songs & stories! Interactive, relaxed classes, plus plenty of material to practice at home!  07956 385 316  www.gujutots.co.uk Outdoor Forest School Sessions for Parent and Toddlers and Home Educators starting in Oxhey Woods in January every Monday. Children are introduced to the wonders of the woodland through play, song, story telling, craft and practical skills.  Emma on 07900 215512 or  www.forevergreenforestschool.com Sign Language Sing and Sign (Various) Fun classes combining the benefits of baby signing with music to develop language, memory and attention skills. Babies 6-30 months. Bushey, Rickmansworth, Stanmore and Harrow.  www.singandsign.com Perform HEALTH AND WELLBEING Continued from page 17 2-4 year olds in Hampstead at the JW3 Centre (NW3). Mon from Wellbeing Kids Workshops (WD3) Well-being workshops for 10.30am-11.15am and will be a multi-sensory session, totally in children aged 9-12yr and 13-17yr olds. Holiday masterclasses to French, with many fun and varied activities including songs, support the holistic mind, body and spirit learning. By exploring First Aid emotional intelligence, imagination, yoga, mindfulness, MCS Training (HA1, HA5) Paediatric First Aid Course. Accepted for rhymes, music, arts & crafts, dances and movement, language games, and puppets…all great fun! There will also be new fun role-play and many more creative/outdoor activities.For full and voluntary Ofsted Registration. Certificate valid for 3 yrs. more information, please contact Anita  07956 849614,   Margaret 07814 191 395  [email protected] French after-school classes on Weds for 4 to 6 yr olds and 6 to 8 yr olds in St Anthony’s School for Girls, Hampstead (NW11). [email protected] Multi-sensory sessions with arts & crafts and music & movement Massage & Yoga also take place in St Mark’s Church Hall, St John’s Wood/Maida LANGUAGES AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT Human Values Based Yoga After school classes run in Harrow by Baby Lab (WC1E) Have fun for free with your baby making Vale (NW8) on Thurs, Fri and Sat.  020 7385 5565  admin@ clubpetitpierrot.co.uk www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk a qualified yoga teacher with over 40 years yoga experience and discoveries about brain development at the Centre for Brain over 30 years teaching yoga in various settings, including adult & Cognitive Development. Birkbeck College, Malet St, London. Gujarati Masti Maja classes by Sansaar (HA5) Fun and interactive education and family learning, community clubs, hospitals and Travel expenses refunded. 020 7631 6258  www. cbcd. Gujarati music, song and dance classes for 3 to 6 year olds in mental health centres. For adults and children 6-11 years.  bbk.ac.uk North London, to help your child speak Gujarati confidently. Joyce on 07912 879 103  [email protected] Chinmaya UK (HA) Do you want your children to connect to Saturday morning at 9am and 10am at St Lawrence Church in Eastcote, Pinner.  www.sansaar.org YogaBelliesKidz Family yoga (HA & WD) Share the mental their Indian culture through stories, games and celebration of and physical benefits of yoga...peace of mind, relaxation and festivals? Go along to Bal Vihar classes to explore culture and Little Stars Baby Club (HA9) A fun and friendly baby club where increases body strength and flexibility! values in an engaging, positive environment. Every Sunday in new mums with babies from birth to sitting can relax and meet YogaBellies Mum and Baby yoga: Monday afternoons (birth to Harrow and Hendon for children aged 5-17.  bv@chinmayauk. new friends whilst babies play and explore with a range of 10 mths) org www. chinmayauk.org 07812 146428 lovely sensory toys. Every Friday 9:30-11:15am at Powell Suites @ Chalkhill Community Centre, The Welford Centre, 113 Chalkhill YogaBellies Little Angels pre-school yoga (18 mths to 4 yrs): Sat Club Petit Pierrot (NW3/8/11) French Parent & Toddler group for mornings, Bushey

18 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk Local Clubs and Classes Directory

YogaBelliesKidz family yoga (4-12 yrs): Sat & Sun mornings, Bushey NEW: YogaBelles Mum and Daughter (13-16 yrs): Weekday evening, Bushey 07840 904887  [email protected]; www.yogabellies. co.uk/members/anjli ACTIVITY CENTRES Aspire National Training Centre, Kidz Zone activities (HA7) Wide range of activities available from 6mths to 12yrs. 020 8954 5759  [email protected]. Wood Lane, Stanmore, HA7 4AP JAMtots (HA4) An interactive daytime activity centre for parents with babies and toddlers. All pay as you go with a variety of sessions that include Parent & Toddler Groups, Musical Tots, Gym Tots and one off events plus special visits from Jimmy the JAMtots Bear. 01895 624755  thewindmillstudio.com Rumble Tumble Harrow (HA1) Harrow’s only indoor supervised soft play children’s play group. Why not take advantage of the Drop & Shop facility and have a stress free shop, or book a special event in the Party Room available for all occasions. You can even relax and have a snack in the restaurant while your little ones are playing. 0208 427 8847  [email protected] www. rumble-tumble.com The Windmill Studio Centre (HA4) An exciting activity centre that has just about everything to offer for all ages from babies to adults including classes, courses, complementary therapies and room & studio hire. 01895 624755  www. thewindmillstudio. com

MUSIC & MOVEMENT Beat Building Vibrant & energising music classes using African drums and funky percussion. Great songs and games get the imagination glowing & introduce the concepts of beats, rhythmic patterns, time keeping & also encourage sharing, taking turns and listening. A wonderful introduction to music and rhythm, beat Building is brilliantly fun! 07721 623 171  info@beatbuilding. co.uk www. beatbuilding.co.uk www.facebook.com/beatbuilding Colourstrings (various) Music Kindergartens for babies, toddler, Monkey Music (Various) Award-winning SPORTS AND EXERCISE and children up to 6 yrs with small, age-related classes. Classes Monkey Music introduces babies and are enjoyable and inspire learning, developing inner hearing and young children to music in a way All Stars Cricket Gives boys and girls aged 5-8 the chance to play, core music skills. New class starting in Hendon in Jan 2017. 020 they understand and enjoy - and learn great skills and make new friends! 8 week course starts May  2018. www.allstarscricket.co.uk 8444 9435  www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk is brilliant fun for children and  Diddi Dance Harrow & North Hillingdon (various) At diddi dance adults too! The unique four-stage Better leisure centres (various) We exist to make community we enhance children’s endless energy and enthusiasm through curriculum, written by classically services and spaces better for everyone. That means providing funky, full of fun sessions that build confidence, co-ordination trained musicians, ensures that classes are access to quality community leisure and fitness facilities - and and creativity. Classes in Pinner,Ruislip & Stanmore with new ones a “good fit” for pre-schoolers. Parents across the UK have more - at a price everyone can afford.  www.better.org. uk/ opening soon. voted it as “Best National Toddler Development Activity” families To book a FREE TRIAL contact tejal. [email protected] and “Best National Pre-school Development Activity”. Capoeira Academy UK (HA) Classes in Stanmore providing Mini Maniacs (Various) Multi award nominated classes that Age guides are as follows: Rock’n’ Roll from 3m, Heigh Ho outstanding and fun classes for children aged 4+years. A unique are filled with music, dance and exploration – plus plenty of from 1yr, Jiggety Jig from 2rs, Ding Dong 3- 5yrs. Classes blend of martial arts, dance, acrobatics and music; capoeira excitement.Focusing on a range of engaging activities, the classes are open 6 days a week, at venues in Uxbridge, Eastcote, develops skills for life with inspiring and nurturing teachers. take you up tempo then down tempo, leaving parent and child Northwood, Harrow and Stanmore. 07841342874  [email protected] www. capoeiracademyuk.com feeling like they’ve been on a tummy tickling roller coaster!  020 8427 6595  www.monkeymusic.com [email protected] www.mini-maniacs.com Continued on page 20

familiesonline.co.uk Families North West London 19 Local Clubs and Classes Directory

Harrow Junior Hockey Club (HA1) run sessions for children Rugbytots - the UK’s first rugby based play programme for 2-7 aged 4- 16 years on Sunday mornings and Tuesday evenings year olds. Focusing on developing your child’s motor skills and at Playing Fields, , Harrow, confidence with fun-filled programmes aimed at improving HA1 3NA. Everyone welcome please contact us for more general ball skills, balance, agility and coordination. Currently information  [email protected] classes in Watford, Rickmansworth, Bushey and Stanmore.  For Ignite Tennis (HA3) Coaching courses for ages 3+ at Kenton Lawn more information contact [email protected] Tennis Club. Also fun Tennis Camps during the holidays. Contact James on 07852 180905  [email protected] SportsKids Academy (WD3 & HA3) www.ignitetennis.co.uk SportsKids Academy provide 4 -16 year olds with an exciting and Kaishi Karate School educational sports programme Kaishi Karate School runs classes at weekends. We encourage and for children and adults in North develop young people to grow as London. Karate helps with discipline, athletes and individuals. We have confidence, coordination and an extensive programme of team fitness. First class is a free trial and free karate suit to new and individual sports as well as weekly team building members during the months of September and October. challenges. ALL CHILDREN participate in a wide range of different sports , grow in confidence through leadership Call on 07875501674 or see class times on skills and have fun making lots of new friends. Continued from page 19 [email protected] Their programme includes; American , Dodgeball, Handball, Echo’s Equestrian Centre (SL0) A small friendly livery yard and Little Kickers (Various) Enabling children aged 18mths up to their Basketball, Rugby, Softball, Gaelic Football, Pony Club Centre in Iver, Buckinghamshire. Junior Pony Club and 7th birthday to develop their coordination, balance and agility Rounders, Athletics, Cricket, Gymnastics, Tennis, a Hoof Club during the holidays. 07895 706053  www. through football activity classes Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Fencing, Lacrosse, Archery, Netball, Volleyball, Martial echosequestrian.co.uk Golders Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet 020 8201 1084  Arts, Football, Badminton, Hockey, Orienteering and Golf. [email protected]. Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Enjoy-a-Ball classes (Various) Sports coaching for 3-9 yr olds in Harrow (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford  0208 123 9346  07983392479  [email protected] a fun, positive and non-competitive environment. Ten ball sports  [email protected] or Harrow (HA3) Bushey and www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk for the perfect introduction to sport. Physi-ball classes - Ball skills North Wembley  0208 422 0676  [email protected] and core skills for toddlers aged 18mths to 3 yrs. Classes run in Mill www.littlekickers.co.uk HIll, Finchley, Golders Green and Muswell Hill. Call 0333 334 0845 TISKA (HA1/9) Learn the fascinating art of Karate. Classes held in or 07763746886 to book a trial session. Enjoy-a-Ball parties are for Wembley and Harrow. Families welcome, minimum age 4 yrs. super-active 3 - 9 year olds. They are full of high energy games London Academy of Gymnastics & Dance (LAGAD) 07739 572487  [email protected] www.tiskakarate- loved by boys and girls alike! 0333 334 0845 or 07763746886 ​ LAGAD is a specialist company harrow.co.uk  www.enjoy-a-ball.com [email protected] passionate about the provision Y Active (HA2) New Harrow classes booking now for children Everyone Active (various) Why should your child learn to swim? of high quality, dynamic and fun and adults at the YMCA. A beautiful studio with free parking Swimming is lots of fun for people of all ages and also provides dance & gymnastics classes. We and a play garden. Baby, Ballet, Gym, Soft Play and Classes from loads of health benefits which can help to keep you and your run gymnastics classes for children £4.40. 020 8832 1576  [email protected] www. children healthy and happy at the same time. What’s more, aged from 3 ½ years upwards, ymcawestlondon.org swimming is the only sport which can save your child’s life. including Young Teens, Rhythmic Gymnastics and Drowning is still one of the most common causes of accidental Disability Gymnastics. We also offer Ballet, Global Dance Swimmimg death in children, so being able to swim is an essential life-saving and Street Dance classes. Fully-trained Coaches and Dance Aqua Vie Swimming based on effortless swimming and true water skill.  To find out more about learning to swim at your local instructors work with all abilities to bring out the best confidence. Fun classes for babies & Children from 6wks+ to all leisure centre visit www.everyoneactive.com. in each child and help them develop a range of fantastic ages including Adults. New Tues, Wed & Sunday morning classes in Field End Flyers Saturday Morning Community Cycle Club (HA5) physical and life skills in a fun and safe environment. All Bushey WD23.  01923 245 772  www.aqua-vie.com or email Saturday in Term Time, Field End Rd for ages 5–11 yrs. Join the abilities welcome, [email protected] friendly team of British Cycling Coaches at 9.45am, and learn fun Trial Classes available throughout the Autumn term. Brent Dolphins (NW10/HA0) Swimming lessons for children 5 years skills, race on the amazing fully enclosed Cycle Track, make new Wembley (HA9) and venues across North London and over at Willesden and Vale Farm. Sessions are held in a fun friends and enjoy a whole morning of fun till 12.30 - (refreshment and friendly environment from beginner to competitive swimming break half way through). All you need is your own bike, helmet,  0208 883 4675 level.Further details are available on our website www. gloves and water bottle and a shower proof jacket.  Tracey  [email protected] www.lagad.co.uk brentdolphins.org.uk or you can email our Club Secretary at: info@ [email protected] brentdolphins.org.uk .

Advertise your club or class from £10/month* Call 01923 237 004 *annual basic listing

20 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk Local Clubs and Classes Directory

Splashtime Swim School (various) Swimming lessons, Holiday Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools clubs and After school club held at Quainton Hall School. (Various) “A new school year is  Splashtime Swim School 07903126486 Children’s Activities here, which means that children 07794078452 across London and the Home Counties are taking to the stage as Jigsaw begins an exciting THEATRE AND PERFORMING ARTS new term of drama, singing and dance classes; the perfect activity Beverley School of Performing Arts (HA8) After school & Saturday classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Street, Singing & Drama for to escape the cold, wet October weekends. Classes are boys and girls aged 3-18years. ISTD and LAMDA examinations to designed to develop children’s confidence, focus and advanced level. 07974 750 224 social skills, while having fun and making lots of new  www.beverleydance.co.uk. friends. With more children attending Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools than ever before, now is the time to book a Huzzah Performing Arts & Mindfulness Build confidence from the two-week trial and discover these unique benefits at a inside out with a Huzzah weekly class. Drama, dance, singing and school near you. a touch of mindfulness. Ages 4 - 7. Saturday 1 - 2.20pm in Queen’s Park. Sunday 10 - 11.30am in West Hampstead. For more information or to book a two-week trial, visit Sign up for a FREE TRIAL  www.huzzahperformingarts.com. www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk or call 020 8447 4530. Creative, calm, confident kids. Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts (HA1, HA4, HA7, WD3) Italia Conti Ruislip (HA5) Performing Arts School for 2yrs to adult, Performance based theatre school with venues based in Harrow, Haydon School Eastcote. ISTD Ballet, Tap and Modern, Street dance, Rickmansworth, Ruislip and Stanmore where children 3-21 Break Dance, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Singing, LAMDA, acting, attend weekly classes in preparation for full scale Musical Theatre Gymnastics, Lyrical. Call or email for a Free Trial 20 8838 8747 productions. 01923 437693  www.SharpeAcademy.co.uk  [email protected] www.italiacontiruislip.co.uk Stagecoach (Various) Training in three disciplines: drama, dance and singing. Great for building confidence, making new friends and JAM2000 Performing Arts and Agency (HA4) beginning to hone talent and enthusiasm for performing, or being JAM2000 Performing Arts and Agency is an explosive coaxed out of their shell by having fun!  Harrow 020 3504 0100 and dynamic performing arts school Harrow on the Hill & Sudbury Hill 01923 248 294 Stanmore & Harrow where students learn to perform Weald 020 3504 2154 Watford 01727 768 738 Queen’s Park 020 7723 in dance and drama and enjoy 5861 Northwood 01442 263 599  www.stagecoach.co.uk amazing opportunities to appear in spectacular shows and special events Wordworks Studio (HA5) Individual and group classes in Speech, including TV and film. Drama and Communication Skills for children 3-18yrs.  [email protected] Classes for boys and girls from 2.5 years Dance to adults are taught by world-class instructors in an Harrow Theatre Dance & Pinner Theatre Dance (HA) Ballet, The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance (HA7) Ballet classes to develop air conditioned, mirrored dance studio complete with Modern, Tap and Street Dance. In Harrow, Pinner and Ruislip. poise, technique and expression through dance, for boys and girls sprung floor amid the clean and modern surroundings of ISTD qualified teachers and exams. Classes for children aged 3+. aged 3-16 years with Royal Academy of Dance examinations The Windmill Studio Centre 106 - 106A Pembroke Road,  07804 910 551  [email protected] Info@  020 8950 2457 Ruislip Manor, Middlesex, HA4 8NW. PinnerTheatreDance.co.uk  www vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk Classes include Urban Jazz Fusion - an exciting fusion of Instep School of Ballet (HA/WD) Trains students of all ages and dance styles including Hip Hop, Street, Jazz and Musical abilities in ballet, tap, pointe and performance. The school offers Theatre; Tap dancing and drama - acting for stage, TV examinations with the Royal Academy of Dance (ballet) and the ARTS AND CRAFTS & film. Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance (tap), and all teachers are Art Classes for Kids (and Adults) in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, To book a trial session call on  01895 624755 or fully qualified and registered with the RAD and ISTD. They produce painting and mixed media art classes for children and adults. On-  email [email protected] a summer show each year. Classes in Harrow, and going, small groups Mon–Thurs afternoons and Saturday mornings Bushey.  07814 793 772  [email protected] in Term Time for children from Year 1 up. Weekday morning studio www.instepschoolofballet.co.uk sessions for adults in a relaxed, supportive environment. 020 Perform Weekly drama, dance and singing classes. Confidence 8954 2897 or 07500 006 099  [email protected] building fun for 4-12s. A unique mix of drama, dance and singing London Academy of Gymnastics & Dance (LAGAD) LAGAD is Art and Craft Club (HA5) Term time, Mon 4.30-5.30, Sat 10-11am specially formulated to bring out every child’s true potential. a specialist company passionate about the provision of high or 11-12pm at Harrow Arts Centre. New activities introduced every Classes are kept small to ensure lots of individual attention. quality, dynamic and fun dance & gymnastics classes. Starting in term; drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, sewing, fabric Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions. Venues in Croxley September 2018, brand new Ballet and Street Dance classes for printing and much more! For 5-11yr olds. Materials provided. Green, Golders Green, Northwood, Pinner, Harrow, Hatch End, children aged 3 ½ years upwards at the Ark Elvin Academy. All Qualified teachers. 07946 055 422 Kensal Rise, Kentish Town, Queens Park, Stanmore and Wembley. abilities welcome, Trial Classes available throughout the Autumn  [email protected]  020 7255 9120 / [email protected] term. Wembley (HA9) and venues across North London Contact: www.perform.org.uk 0208 883 4675 / [email protected] www.lagad.co.uk Continued on page 22

familiesonline.co.uk Families North West London 21 Local Clubs and Classes Directory

options are available in Ruislip Manor & Eastcote. Special member’s that spring to life with lights and sensors, and prototyping benefits, sibling discounts and a refer a friend scheme are available devices that will ‘amaze and inspire’. Tailored courses written so why not book now & let them develop a love of Art that will to support the National Curriculum for GCSE and A Levels. Adult last a lifetime! Contact Suzi at  [email protected], courses are also available. Gerard on 07767 300940  info@ 07773 819 603 8 www.Facebook.com/BlankCanvasArtClub discogcodingacademy.com www.discogcodingacademy.com Messmakers! (HA5) A gentle and fun introduction to creative arts Elisa’s Tutorial School (HA8) Experienced private tutor in Edgware. for the very young and their families, with lots of mess and none Programmes for children from 2.5-16 yrs. If your child needs a little of the tidying up! Exploring different materials and textures each extra help, in English maths verbal and non-verbal 4+ 7+ and 11+ week. Ages under 5, come dressed for mess! 0208 416 8989 preparing for entrance exams or you just want to give them every  www.harrowarts.com/family advantage, Elisa can help. 99% success rate. 020 8958 1192 07956868119  www.childrensstories.net Stitch Club (HA5) Stitch and Sketch Club for children and teens. www.kidslearnfast.co.uk Start with simple hand sewing then developing sewing machine and design techniques to design and create your own items. Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to 5-14 Saturday Sketch Club develops looking and drawing skills and year olds of all abilities. Visit their website to find your nearest confidence. Also parties and one-off workshops. Adults’ weekly centre or call to book a free trial class! Dressmaking sessions and occaisional Beginners workshops.  www.explorelearning.co.uk.  stitch.club E: [email protected] Field End Flyers Saturday Morning Community Cycle Club (HA5) Saturday in Term Time adjacent to Field End Junior School, Field End Road, Eastcote, HA4, for children aged 5 – 11 yrs. Join the AFTER SCHOOL CLUB/EDUCATION SUPPORT friendly team of British Cycling Coaches at 9.15am and learn fun skills, race on the amazing fully enclosed Cycle Track, make new 1Point4Teacher (HA) Do you have a child in KS1 and KS2? Does friends and enjoy a whole morning of fun till 11.30 - (refreshment your child need more of a challenge? Then give 1Point4Teacher a break half way through). All you need is your own bike, helmet, try today. Lessons from a qualified primary school teacher, with a gloves, water bottle and a shower proof jacket.  Contact Tracey class ratio of 1 adult to 4 children. English tuition on Mondays and at [email protected] Tuesdays, covering reading comprehension and SPAG (spellings, punctuation and grammar) with math lessons on a Wednesday. The Harrow Woodcraft Folk (HA) Elfin group for children, 6 to 9 Harrow, 5 minutes from Kenton Library.  www.1Point4Teacher. year olds are reopening their group after the Summer holidays on co.uk or email the Head Tutor Mrs Edwin on info@1point4teacher. Tuesday 6th September in Central Harrow. Parents wishing to join co.uk their children should contact the District Secretary; John Woolf: 020 8428 2409 or  e-mail: [email protected] For Brownies and Guides (Various) Rainbow, Brownie and Guide more information regarding Harrow Woodcraft Folk visit their web Units exist across the area which provide fun activities for girls site: www. harrowwoodcraftfolk.btck.co.uk/HowtoJoin aged from 5 onwards.  www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested or Peggy Brand 020 8205 7597 Holidaytime After school club is part of Activetime Children’s Activities limited (HA1) Pick’s up from four local school’s at the Champs Learning (HA1) A very structured tuition course for English, end of the school day, then take the children back to the club for a Maths, Science and 11+ exams. Courses run at . snack and the daily activity. They are open Monday- Friday 3pm- 020 3004 9007 6pm Nicole 07794078452  www.champslearning.co.uk  [email protected] www. activetime.co.uk Continued from page 21 Click IT! Computer lessons for Children (HA2) Fun, exciting and Integratedbrain - Improve Co-ordination for learning! (UB5) educational weekly computer lessons for children aged 2-5. Classes Activities to help those with poor co-ordination, dyspraxia, dyslexia Artzania Art and Craft Activity Club (HA) A new and exciting Arts held at nursery schools all over North West London. Have fun or fine motor difficulties. Small groups of 4/5 children working to and Crafts activity club for children ages 1-11 yrs open during term learning with technology: mouse and keyboard skills and devices develop better all-round motor integration. Usha Patel 07766 time and holidays. They offer and Mother Toddler Group art club including graphic tablets, trackpads and digital microscopes. Every 837 616 [email protected] (aged 1-4 yrs) and an After-school/ Holiday Club (ages 5-11yrs) lesson is designed to complement the EYFS curriculum. Free trials www.integratedbrain.co.uk Contact to book your place: Keshma 07419343105  keshma. available. 020 8434 7111.  www.clickit-kids.co.uk. wendy@ [email protected] clickit-kids.co.uk. JKEducate Educational Consultancy and Tutoring (various) Blank Canvas Art Club (HA4) Do your kids love Art? Then welcome Tutoring, Assessments, Consultancy for children 5-18yrs. 7+, 11+, to the club! Sign them up for these fun classes where I teach DiscoG Coding Boot Camp (various) Weekly Coding Programme GCSE, A Levels, SEN, EFL. 020 3488 0754 art techniques to 5+, 7+ and 11-18 year olds. Weekly term time teaches Primary and Secondary School children the basics of  www.jkeducate.co.uk classes & holiday workshops, with public or small group private coding. Using the Python Programming Language and the Raspberry Pi 3 your child will create fun and engaging gadgets

22 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk Local Clubs and Classes Directory

Karen Wilkin Tuition (HA) 4+/5+ tuition. One to one, tailor made, Mastermind Tuition (HA) Specialists in 11+. Maths, English, Verbal hands-on, fun sessions in the comfort of your home. Experienced and Non-Verbal, Grammar & independent School Preparation. £15 Montessori teacher with excellent results in all the top schools. per session. Classes in Harrow and Northwood. 075 10 10 50 50. Term time and holiday sessions available. 07887 984 401, wilkin@ www.mastermindtuition.com afrormosia.com Math’scool Award-winning Maths Tuition plus out-of-lesson Knowledge Above Standard (HA7) Maths, English, Verbal and non- homework support. 0333 12 33 445  www.mathscool.com verbal reasoning, 7+, 11+ 13+ exam preparation. 07985 588 085  www.knowledgeabovestandard.co.uk Number Works ‘n’ Words (Eastcote) Maths and English tuition classes which target identified needs to improve achievement Leaders are Readers (HA5 & N21) Offer specialist experience and levels. They set goals for your child, monitor progress and provide accelerated learning in their award winning Saturday School, and regular progress reports. Cater for all levels from Reception to Year also run popular Summer and Winter Schools during holidays. 2 11.  www.numberworksnwords.co.uk hours spent per subject, including English, Maths, Learning to Read and Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. All programmes are for The Play Shelter After School Club at Malorees Infant & Junior ages 3.5 to 11 and the success rate is 90% for helping pupils prepare Schools (NW6) - 3.30pm to 6pm term time. Play schemes available to sit entrance exams, including 4+, 5+, 7+ and 11+. Childcare out of term-time. 0207 407 6744. admin@theplayshelter. vouchers accepted. 01992 651 300  www.leadersarereaders. co.uk www.theplayshelter.co.uk co.uk The Rainbow Club (various) Specialise in preparing for 3+, 4+ and The London Tutors (Various) Specialises in providing 11 Plus 5+ entrance exams. 07850 045 471  [email protected] classroom based learning, to yr 4 and 5 students. Prepare students Raviv Practice London (UB5) Catch up reading course. Improve to sit exams for Grammar and private schools.  For a call back reading age by 1 year in 3 months of home based work. The email your name and number to [email protected] computer interventions is similar to having a tutor in your home Love 2 Learn (HA) Experienced Primary School teacher and tutor with daily monitoring and feed back. Usha Patel on 07766 837 for year 1 to year 6 in Pinner. 11-12 week session taught in small 616  [email protected] (registered therapist) groups. Topics include Creative Writing, Mental Maths, Persuasive Stem Den (HA6) Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths for Writing, Public Speaking and Cross Curriculum Education. Mrs S children aged 5 to 13 years. Develop problem solving skills and Mukhtar. 07958 728184 learn programming. At St John’s School in Northwood.   [email protected] www.stemden.co.uk Lumilie’s Learning World (HA) New Children’s Educational/ Susan Daughtrey Education (SDE) SW Herts courses are based on Type IT! - Touch Typing Lessons for Children (HA2) Learn to touch Developmental Classes for 2yrs-5yrs. Dynamic approach of more than 25 years experience preparing students for 11+ tests. interactive Musical Activities, igniting children’s senses to a world type! Weekly lessons and intensive holiday courses for children All courses have been personally written by Susan Daughtrey from age 8-18. Highly recommended for children with dyslexia. of multiple learning opportunities. Expanding curious minds M.Ed, author of the market leading verbal reasoning Technique through language, communication, education and creative Classes are held at their office in Harrow on the Hill, HA2 0JT. Free and Practice series. Every year since 1987, over 90 per cent. of the trials available. Adult classes also available. experiences for holistic growth. Classes at Harrow Arts Centre - students on the courses have achieved success. 020 7683 0734   020 8434 7111.  www.typeitforkids.co.uk. wendy@ Call Andrea 07914 953123 to book your FREE TRIAL.  www.  www.sdeuk.org/swherts lumilieslearningworld.com typeitforkids.co.uk.

Paediatric First Aid Courses

Sat 22 Sept, Thurs 27 Sept, Sun 14 Oct - 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

familiesonline.co.uk Families North West London 23 Parenting

Educating your Child about Social Media

By Claire Winter

uring the primary school years, there is a tendency to want to bury your head in the sand when it Dcomes to the issues and challenges of mobile phone use and social media. If you have children under 10, you may feel you don’t need to pay attention to this yet. However, by Years 5 and 6 many of your children’s peers will start to actively use apps like Snapchat and Instagram and you need to start to understand how to help your child navigate the online world. The legal age for children to use social sites like Facebook, Instagram, Musical.ly and Snapchat is 13. But, according to a report by the Children’s Commissioner, around 75% of 10 to 12 year olds have a social media account. The study makes sobering reading stating that children face a ‘cliff edge’ when Here are some things to consider If you are not on the social platform, explain it comes to using social media when they go before your child becomes active that you will want access to their account to secondary school. to see what they are doing (actually follow Getting comments and likes on their on social: through on this). Some people may feel posts becomes a priority, especially when Explore the privacy settings on all the apps this is an intrusion on their privacy, but my their whole class are now using mobile your children will use and explain how they personal view is that young teenagers need devices and have social media accounts. work. Make sure their accounts aren’t public some supervision. They become more concerned about and are only available to their friends. Do some sleuthing to check if they are how they look and feel anxious about Explain they should only friend or follow setting up extra accounts that you don’t staying connected at all times. FOMO (Fear people they know on all their social media know about (this isn’t always easy to find Of Missing Out) becomes much more accounts. out but checking their phones and email prevalent. Stress that it is crucial for them to tell you should give some insight if you can’t find it Class WhatsApp groups and the like mean if someone they don’t know is trying to by account searching. that whilst your child has their phone they contact them. Explain not everyone is who Tell them not to share private information are connected to their peers 24/7. This is they say they are online. about themselves, like where they go to the equivalent of having the “noise” of the Remind them they can block people they school or their address. playground with them at all times. It makes don’t know or users who are giving them it impossible for children to leave behind the Remind them not to post, snap or chat unwanted attention (including their peers). social interactions of the day, including any about something that they don’t want to negative ones, and switch off emotionally. It There are many things your children should be shared or seen by a wider audience. means your child is at risk of being negatively not see on the internet. Ensure your children Remind them pictures can be captured by impacted by any hurtful throwaway remarks feel comfortable talking about what they screenshot and shared with people they or comments made by their peers which have seen online or things that have been don’t know. may not even have been intended to be sent to them. Conversations need to be Tell them that bullying should not be hurtful. Social posts without accompanying open and frank because sexual and violent tolerated in real life or cyberspace. If they are tone, facial expression and gesture are more content can only ever be a few clicks away. being bullied or see someone being bullied, likely to be interpreted negatively or the Follow them or add them as a friend on tell them to tell a trusted adult. meaning questioned than words delivered your social accounts, so you can see what Limit how long they can be online. Put the face to face. In short, you need to set limits they are doing. Many parents make this a Wi-Fi on a timer or set a daily limit of time for on social interaction if your child is going to condition before allowing their child to have how long they can be on their device. remain sane and grounded. an app, especially if they are younger. As parents, we need to lead by example, so limit the time you spend on social platforms when you are with your child. Accept that your child is bound to make some mistakes on social media. The key is to have an open dialogue with them about it so they can ask for advice if things go wrong and learn how to create healthy boundaries around their online activities.

24 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk Parenting Alesha Dixon urges children to find their inner Superpower

We know her as a BGT judge, a Strictly judge, a TV personality and a pop star, but did you also know Alesha Dixon has recently become a children’s author? Families Magazine spoke to Alesha about the upcoming release of her new book – Lightning Girl: Superhero Squad, the sequel to her electrifying first book Lightning Girl.

What inspired you to become a children’s author? I love new creative challenges! I felt there was a gap in the market for an inspirational “It is important book which featured a young female superhero as a positive role model for boys to me that all and girls of different ethnicities. One of my driving forces was the desire to create a book to which my daughter could strongly children learn relate. that they can What feedback have you had from your first book? contribute, I couldn’t be happier with the feedback I’ve received! There’s little more rewarding than having a child say they love your book, and that they are to have a parent say ‘Thank you for getting my child to enjoy reading’. counted and What is the general idea plotline of your second book? that they are Aurora Beam doesn’t want to be a superhero. She just wants to be a normal important.“ girl who blends in. After her adventures in Lightening Girl Aurora is finding that this Lightning Girl: Superhero Squad by Alesha ‘saving-the-world lark’ isn’t all it’s cracked up Dixon will be published by Scholastic on 6th to be. World-famous overnight, she’s now Sept 2018 living in the full glare of the media’s flash bulbs: everyone wants a piece of Aurora. When she attends a global gathering of superheroes, will she find support from new friends? Or will there be rivalries and sabotage to deal with? There’s twists and turns throughout, and the challenges get bigger as the story moves on. There are a lot of messages interwoven within your book. What do you hope are the core messages received by your readers? Essentially, what I’m saying to young people is “you all have a superpower within you”. It’s okay to be different, it’s okay to stand contribute, that they are counted and that out. You don’t have to follow everyone they are important. I want them to realise else or to be like everyone else to be that nobody should be discriminated accepted. You all have a light, don’t so don’t against, nobody should feel excluded in any let anything dim it. We’re all unique and way, and we all should feel worthy. collectively we can all help one another If children have a gift or talent, I’d love this in our own special way. It is important to book to give them permission to me that all children learn that they can celebrate it.

familiesonline.co.uk Families North West London 25 What’s On 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 (Oct 2018 issue) send you entry by 10th September 2018 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.co.uk for all our local weekly regular events. It’s updated every day!

SEPTEMBER

Sat 1 Sep - Big Sports (WD18) Watford’s FREE Big Sports will be returning to the Parade in the town centre for a fifth year with a whole host of sporting and fitness activities for you to try out alongside health and wellbeing advice. The activities have not yet been finalised but will include some exciting new additions to the day including a zip line, cave adventures, rope-a-phobia and a palm tree challenge as well as various sports stands where you can practice your tennis, golf, rugby and karate. www.watfordbigevents.co.uk

​Sat 1 Sep - Cancer Research UK Relay For Life Harrow (HA1) A Family Fun day with Food Stalls, Bouncy Castle, Games, Dancers, Drummers, Singer and More. Go and join in at Sports Club and help raise money for a great cause. As Well as the Fun day there will be a 24 hour walk, with everyone taking turns to walk around a track. www.relay.cancerresearchuk.org

Sat 1 Sep – The Nomad Cinema: The Goonies (NW6) The Goonies is from a time when VHS was just overtaking Betamax, when the Cold War was Hendon Pageant in technicolor and double denim was a serious option, and features a group of misfits who set out to find a pirate’s ancient treasure in order to save their home from Click and Stitch and on the 23 Sept in Winding Structures include sand art for children, lathe made wooden artefacts, foreclosure. This screening will be in beautiful Queens Park during the London Design Festival. On the last Sunday of handbags and purses, personalised children’s gifts and where you can hire a seat, buy a wedge or buy a blanket. the month, mould a sensory object inspired by the ceramic crochet work gifts. All the old fairground ride favourites will www.whereisthenomad.com collection. www.vam.ac.uk be there alongside the petting farm and the Scouts climbing wall. Refreshments and food will be available, as well as Sat 1 Sep & Sat 6 Oct – Northwood Mon 3 - Sun 30 Sep - Potato Shindig! live music, Craft Market (HA6) There will be many beautiful (AL4) Go along to Willows Activity Farm and harvest your www.rotary-ribi.org crafts for sale, all handmade by local craftspeople, as well as FREE bag of potatoes at Willows Potato Patch. Plus tattie- hands-on crafts for children, a plant Stall, teas, coffees and tastic potato arts and crafts! Sat 8 Sep - Bat Walk (WD18) Guided bat delicious homemade cakes. At the Methodist Church Hall in www.willowsactivityfarm.com walk at Cassiobury Park with a local expert from the Bat Northwood from 10am-2pm. Conservation Group. A chance to use detectors to look for www.northwoodcraftmarket.co.uk Thu 6 Sep - Harrow Summer Music beautiful bats. Meet at the entrance of Gade Avenue car park. Festival 2018 Concert (HA1) A free classical Booking required, to book your place email: cassiobury@ Sat 1 – Sun 2 Sep - Tiny Tall Ships lunchtime concert in central Harrow with retiring collection watford.gov.uk or tel: 01923 727072. (SE10) Go along to the Cutty Sark and create your very - James Dutton (flute) and Oliver Davies (piano). At St John www.watford.gov.uk own tiny tall ship to add to a spectacular river of masts and the Baptist Church on Sheepcote Road from 12.30-1.30pm. sails underneath Cutty Sark. This workshop is part of Totally www.greaterlondonclassicalconcerts.com ​Sat 8th Sep - Hayes End Community Thames 2018. Ages 4+. 11.30am-1pm & 2-4pm. Fun Day (UB3) Annual Fun Day event at Hayes www.rmg.co.uk Sat 8 Sep – Croxfest (WD3) Croxfest is a yearly End Community Centre from 11am-4pm. Fun for all of the music festival in Croxley Green held on The Green. It is free family with a vast array of stalls from both charity and Sun 2 Sep - Shadows and Stories for all to attend – enjoy a varied line-up of acts in a family- independents, shows, performances, attractions, music and Family Afternoon (NW1) Celebrate the European friendly atmosphere. 12-8pm. much much more.....be sure to pop along and support this Day of Jewish Culture with a range of storytelling and craft www.croxfest.co.uk annual event. activities at the Jewish Museum from 1-4pm. Create magical www.facebook.com/HayEndComCen shadow puppetry, inspired by stories from PJ Library, Sat 8 Sep – Watford Fire Museum storyteller Grethe Jenson spins Jewish folktales using the Open Day (WD17) The Fire Museum is based in a Sat 8 Sep - Kids Gardening Club (N22) traditional art of oral storytelling, make your own story purpose built building at Watford Fire Station on Lower High Capital Gardens, London’s largest group of independent cubes, create your own story, and join in a craft workshop Street. ​ There is a substantial collection of various items of garden centres, is excited to announce new indoor gardening inspired by pictures from the collection. fire service equipment, uniform and documents (old and classes this September, which looks to excite and inspire www.jewishmuseum.org.uk new), with a large and varied photographic display of fire children into the joy of plants and gardens. Encouraging appliances, fire/incident scenes and local fire history. Open environmentally-friendly thinking, children will learn what Sun 2 Sep – Sun 30 Sep - Drop-in from 1-4pm.www.watfordmuseum.org.uk/fire-museum plants can be grown indoors and the health benefits of Design (SW7) Taking place every Sunday at the V&A indoor plants. What’s more, kids will be taught how to make museum, pick up a design brief and bring your creative ideas Sat 8 Sep - Pinner Village Show (HA5) their very own terrarium from a recycled plastic bottle and The 2018 Pinner Village Show will take in Pinner Memorial to life with the Drop-in Design team. 10.30am–5pm. On 2 and receive a free plant sprayer! At Alexandra Palace Garden Park from 11:30am to 5pm. More than 50 stalls selling goods 9 Sept, vote for change and create a revolutionary placard Centre, 10-12pm and 2-4pm, ages 5-10 yrs. and promoting local organisations will be there, new stalls then march through the Museum. On 16 Sept take part in www.capitalgardens.co.uk

26 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk What’s On

Hendon Pageant

Sat 8 Sep - Astronomy and Islam: Thu 13 Sep - Clothes Swap (WD17) Go Sat 15 – Sun 16 Sep - Manor Farm Family Special (SE10) In this family special along to Watford Museum between 5-8.30pm and refresh History Weekend (HA4) There will be a variety Sky Tonight show, held before the predicted sighting your wardrobe the sustainable way! Take along good quality of activities for all of the family, including children’s craft of the next New Crescent Moon, a Royal Observatory unwanted clothes, shoes and accessories to the museum and workshops, a Tudor history camp on the motte with Greenwich astronomer will guide you through the night sky, drop off between 5 and 6pm. Swap starts at 6.30pm. Shakespearean travelling players, guided tours of Manor highlighting Arabic tales about characters and creatures that www.watfordmuseum.org.uk Farm House, a temporary exhibition on Manor Farm’s people imagined seeing by joining together the bright stars unique wallpaper, a weapon display and sword school (Sun), in the sky. The astronomer will also highlight the Moon and Sat 15 Sep - Cheeki Monkeys Baby and live Tudor music and dance demonstrations (Sun). why it seems to change shape over the course of a month. & Children’s Market Watford (WD18) The council’s Autumn Show (fruit and vegetable growing 10 – 10.45am. Ages 11+. At the Peter Harrison Planetarium, Family Fun Day/ Indoor Pop-up Baby & Children’s Market at competition) will be held at the Great Barn on the Saturday, Royal Observatory Greenwich. Westfield Academy, Tolpits Lane, Watford, WD18 6NS from with exhibits from more than 40 categories for visitors to www.rmg.co.uk 12-2pm. Pre-Loved, Craft, Business, Entertainment Stalls. view from 1.30pm. 10am to 4.30pm, free entry. Buy/Sell children toys, clothes, equipment. Goody Bags www.hillingdontheatres.uk Sat 8 – Sun 9 Sep - James and the for the first 50 visitors. Adult £1, Kids FREE. Facebook @ Giant Weekend (SW7) The Natural History CheekiMonkeysRickmansworthandWatford Sat 15 – Sun 16 Sep - World War One: Museum are joining forces with the Roald Dahl Story www.cheekimonkeys.co.uk Meet the Tommies (HP8) Go and meet Company to host James and the Giant Weekend, a family costumed World War One soldier re-enactors at Chiltern festival inspired by Roald Dahl’s beloved story. There is a Sat 15 Sep - Battle of Britain Day Open Air Museum, and find out what life would have been giant weekend of activities and events planned for the whole (UB10) Commemorate Battle of Britain Day by visiting like for them. Listen to folk singers singing WWI folk songs family to make fun discoveries about James’s insect friends. the bunker and visitor centre at Uxbridge. Learn about the and see a replica Airco DH2 plane. Visit the Museum’s Dig Uncover marvellous minibeasts in the Wildlife Garden, meet different components of the air defence system and how the for Victory allotment and explore the 1940s post war prefab Museum scientists, see real specimens, get hands-on and bunker played a key role in World War Two. The visitor centre house. learn about the fascinating real lives of James’s minibeast will offer family sessions to create your own camouflage www.coam.org.uk friends. and take part in a discovery trail around the museum. Open www.nhm.ac.uk 10am to 4.30pm. Continued on page 28 www.hillingdon.gov.uk/bunker Sun 9 Sep - Harefield Fun Run & Family Day 2018 (UB9) Dig out your trainers Sat 15 Sep - MUM2MUM Market Baby and get ready for an action-packed day at the 37th annual & Kids Nearly New Sale Harrow (HA3) Harefield Charity Fun Run & Family Day, taking place at The next mum2mummarket baby & kids nearly new sale in Harefield Hospital. Run, jog or walk the pretty 5km course, Harrow is at Weald Rise Primary School from 2-4pm. Buy top or for those feeling really active, make it a 10k by completing quality preloved baby and children’s goods at a fraction of two laps. A shorter 2km fun run is also available. the high street price. You can also sell your outgrown baby www.rbhcharity.org and kids stuff to other mums and keep 100% of the proceeds. Entry is £2 on the door and children free - everyone Sat 8 & Sat 15 Sep - Learn to Play at welcome. Yamaha Music London (W1F) The nights are www.mum2mummarket.co.uk closing in and it’s the start of a new academic year - the perfect time to take up the new challenge of learning to play Sat 15 Sep - Hendon Pageant (NW9) Go a musical instrument. Yamaha Music London are ready to along to the RAF Museum in London for a nostalgic festival support you, at whatever stage you may be on your musical celebrating the style and charm of the Hendon Pageants journey by offering FREE music taster sessions taking place of the 1930s. The pageants drew huge crowds and were in-store. There is an exciting variety of Yamaha instruments a chance for spectators to see aircraft fly, to experience to choose from and experienced music teachers will be technology they had never seen before and to see the hosting the FREE sessions throughout the day. The taster Royal Air Force in action. Take a ride on the Swing Boats and classes are open to everyone, all ages and abilities welcome. Chair-O-Plane, have fun and win prizes with some traditional Pop along to the store to book your place. fairground games, and watch some amazing engine www.yamahamusiclondon.com displays. Free to enter, open 11am - 5pm. www.rafmuseum.org.uk

familiesonline.co.uk Families North West London 27 What’s On

Continued from page 27

Sat 15 – Sun 16 Sep - Birds of Prey (SW13) Meet a range of magnificent birds of prey such as owls, peregrines, and kestrels at WWT Wetland Centre London, and learn more about them. With their keen senses and aerial agility these avian hunters are perfectly adapted for seeking and catching their prey. This is a rare chance to see their talons, bills, and stunning plumage close up. Expert falconer Ben Long from the Falconry School will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about these wonderful raptors. www.wwt.org.uk

Sun 16 Sep – Family Fun Day and Fun Dog Show (HA5) 3rd annual fun day at Park from 1-6pm. Children’s fancy dress competition, Punch and Judy Shows, stalls, funfair, and lice music. www.forp2016.org/sf2018

Thu 20 Sep – Royal Museums Greenwich Opens Four New Galleries (SE10) On 20 Sept, Royal Museums Greenwich will open four new permanent galleries - Tudor and Stuart Seafarers, Pacific Encounters, Polar Worlds and Sea Things. With over 1,100 objects going on display, the galleries based in the National Maritime Museum will bring the theme of exploration alive, giving visitors unprecedented access to its world-class collections and responding to the public’s growing fascination with Britain’s maritime heritage. www.rmg.co.uk

Fri 21 Sep - 100 Open Cockpits and Cabs (NW9) To celebrate the 100 years since the formation of the RAF, the museum in London are offering visitors the rare and exciting chance to get a closer look inside 100 cockpits and vehicles from the collection. Some of the cockpits and cabs you will be able to step behind the scenes and peer inside using steps, on other occasions you Big Fish Little Fish might even be able to get access and sit inside. The event will allow you to get a feel for what it was like to fly or drive these much loved machines. Ages 12+ and over 1.07m. From Fri 21 Sep - Spanish Flu: Nursing Sat 22 Sep - Abbots Autumn Fest 6-9pm. During History’s Deadliest Pandemic (WD5) Building on the success of last year a fun filled, www.rafmuseum.org.uk (SE1) A new exhibition at the Florence Nightingale Museum low tech event for all of the family is planned at School marks 100 years since the deadliest pandemic in human Mead in Abbots Langley from 11am-4pm. The main purpose history, exploring the devastating impact of the Spanish is to promote the availability of locally produced foods and flu pandemic, and the role of both professional nurses goods, with many local food providers offering produce to in military field hospitals and ordinary women at home, buy on the day. There are many activities are planned and in caring for victims. Using its expertise, collections and refreshments available. knowledge of nursing, the team at the Florence Nightingale www.watford.gov.uk Museum has developed an exhibition that explores six key themes through a variety of interpretation, interactives, films Sat 22 Sep - Guided Village Trail and and object displays. Cream Tea (HP16) A family walk for all ages, www.florence-nightingale.co.uk exploring the charming Chilterns village of Great Missenden. See the places that inspired Roald Dahl and feature in Sat 22 Sep - Lots for Tots Table Top the stories, including Danny’s dad’s petrol pumps from Sale South Ruislip (HA4) An indoor table top Danny, the Champion of the World, Sophie’s ‘norphange’ sale for people that want to sell their second hand baby, from The BFG, and Matilda’s library. Stroll up picturesque toddler and children’s items, and those that want to buy Church Street and follow the BFG footsteps to Roald Dahl’s them. Visitors can browse each sellers table and pick out grave. Head back to the Roald Dahl Museum Café for a exactly what they need, paying the seller direct. At Deane scrumdiddlyumptious cream tea with homemade scones Park Hall in South Ruislip from 2-4pm. £1 entry per adult. and Bogtrotter cake! Please note the Museum will not be www.facebook.com/lotsfortotsruislipandsurrounding open during this event due to ongoing repairs. www.chilternsociety.org.uk Sat 22 Sep – Push it for the Peace (WD18) Push It for the Peace, a fundraising event for Sat 22 Sep - Something’s Fishy (E14) Go Peace Hospice will be back in Cassiobury Park, Watford with along to the Museum of London Docklands and fashion a a choice of a 5k or 10k route, more challenging obstacles, fun, Bobbin hat like those worn by fish porters in London’s busy mud and water! With an events village from 9am, there will Billingsgate market. Ages 5+. be food & drink vans, rides and entertainment for all ages to www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-london-docklands enjoy so take along your friends and family to cheer you on! www.peacehospicecare.org.uk Sat 22 Sep - Festival of Treasures Family Day (NW1) A fun and creative family day Sat 22 Sep - Dr Bike - Free Basic Bike inspired by the Treasures Gallery at the British Library. Go Repairs (UB8) Free bike checks with Hillingdon’s along to make, look, touch, sign and explore. This event is cycle instructors at Hillingdon Sports & Leisure Complex from fully accessible for families with deaf children, parents and 10.30am-3.30pm. Minor adjustments can be made and basic carers. Free, suitable for all ages. replacement parts fitted if available. Advice also offered on www.bl.uk maintenance, safety and security. Florence Nightingale Museum www.hillingdon.gov.uk/drbike

28 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk What’s On

Sat 15 Sep - Cheeki Monkeys Baby & Children’s Market

Sat 22 – Sun 23 Sep - Open House Sat 29th Sep - Lots for Tots Sale – Weekend (HA4) As part of the annual Open House Francis Combe Academy (WD25) An OCTOBER London Weekend, several council-owned heritage venues indoor table top sale for people that want to sell their second will open their doors to the public and provide unique access. hand baby, toddler and children’s items, and those that Thu 4 - Sun 7 Oct - Uxbridge Flavours of the World Market (UB8) Flavours of the Manor Farm is one of Hillingdon’s flagship heritage sites, want to buy them. Visitors can browse each sellers table and World comprises up to 20 carefully selected international and is centred on a Norman motte, which is thought to have pick out exactly what they need, paying the seller direct. At stalls run by international traders who sell top quality hosted a bailey castle. The site houses a unique collection of Francis Combe Academy from 10-11.45am. £1 entry per adult. artisan-produced foods and craft products from around the historic buildings, archaeological remains, landscape features www.lotsfortotssales.co.uk world. Touring different themed markets in the UK annually and community spaces all set in 22 acres of beautiful for over a decade, Savoir Fayre’s latest market, Flavours of grounds. Visitors will have free access to the buildings and Sat 29 – Sun 30 Sep - Apple Weekend the World, is crafted to stir the senses and appeal to locals visitor centre. You will also be able to visit the Great Barn, 2018 (NW3) The acclaimed and much-loved Apple Weekend is back again at Fenton House! Go along for an and visitors alike. 9am-5pm on the High Street in Uxbridge. the 19th century Cow Byre Tea Room and The Pram Shed www.savoir-fayre.com Museum, which exhibits a variety of farming tools. annual celebration of all things apple in Fenton’s beguiling www.hillingdontheatres.uk walled gardens and 300 year-old orchard. 11am-5pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fenton-house-and-garden Sun 7 Oct - Watford Colosseum Family Fun Open Day 2018 (WD18) Watford Sat 22 – Sun 23 Sep - Open House Colosseum invite you to explore behind the scenes of your London: Building Blocks Challenge Sat 29 – Sun 30 Sep - Wild about Wool local entertainment venue. With backstage tours; sound, Build a structure using wooden planks at this Go along to Chiltern Open Air Museum for a special (SW3) (HP8) lighting & pyrotechnic displays; children’s arts, crafts and family-friendly workshop at the National Army Museum. Wild About Wool knitting event and have a go at different games, live music and a whole host of other activities taking During Open House London become an architect for the types of traditional knitting and crochet. Discover different place throughout the afternoon, there’s guaranteed to be day and have a go at building a structure with a big boxes types of wool and help solve your knitting conundrums by something for everyone! Free, but pre-booking is advisable. of wooden planks. Suitable for all ages. 11am–1pm and talking to the friendly experts. There will be Folk music too! www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 2pm–4pm. www.nam.ac.uk Hear traditional and modern Folk songs from The COAM Folk Collective on or around the village green. Sun 23 Sep - Big Fish Little Fish (WD17) www.coam.org.uk Award-winning, pioneering Big Fish Little Fish family rave return triumphantly for a fourth time to the Watford Sun 30 Sep - Moor Park 10k & Fun Looking for October Colosseum with a Back 2 the Old Skool event with definitive Runs (HA6) This popular annual charity event includes rave DJing legend Mark Archer (Altern 8) playing acid house, races for all ages and speeds. Every penny raised goes event listings, techno, drum ‘n’ bass - crafts, confetti, bubbles, club visuals, towards supporting people affected by cancer at the Lynda baby chill area, giant balloons and licensed bar for families Jackson Macmillan Centre. There will be a small fun fair, including half term? with 0-8 year olds. 2-4pm. bouncy castles and refreshments plus the Team Village Check out our October issue www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk where teams can set up their own HQ for the day. Everyone out from 2nd October or read who finishes gets a medal. Takes place at Sandy Lane, it online: Sun 23 Sep - Bubble Rush 2018 (HA3) Northwood from 11.45am. Taking place at Kenton Recreation Ground, the second Bubble www.moorpark10k.org.uk www.familiesnwlondon.co.uk Rush for St Luke’s Hospice promises to be even bigger and better! The 5km course is family friendly and you can run, Sun 30 Sep - Day of mysteries with jog, walk or even dance through the multi-coloured foam. Katherine Woodfine (E14) Join children’s author This event is family friendly with no time restrictions; you Katherine Woodfine at the Museum of London Docklands can even take your dog! for a day of mysteries, fun and adventure to celebrate the www.stlukes-hospice.org launch of ‘Perils in Paris.’ Explore the dockside world of ‘The Sinclair’s Mysteries’, enter the family home of young MORE Sat 29 Sep - Abbots Langley Local detective Mei Lim in the heart of Limehouse, where you Food Autumn Market (WD5) Abbots Langley Transition Town (ALTTA) is hosting its Autumn market can learn how to write your very own mystery, step into an ONLINE to promote and sell local food and produce: jams and Edwardian photograph, and create travel-inspired crafts for preserves, cakes and bakes, eggs, locally roasted coffee, setting out on further adventures! familiesonline.co.uk chocolate, seasonal fruit and vegetables, unique gifts and www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-london-docklands crafts. At the Henderson Hub from 10am-1pm, free entry. www.altta.org.uk

familiesonline.co.uk Families North West London 29 What’s On What’s On Children’s Theatre We couldn’t fit them all in! More online www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check with the venue directly before setting out.

Little Angel Theatre - The Everywhere Bear - © Suzi Corker Photgraphy

The Alban Arena transports audiences to a stunningly re-imagined Sun 30 Sep - KoKERS Cardboard Civic Centre, St Albans world of Oz, providing marvels beyond your tubes, playful choreography and percussive 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk imagination. sound combine to form a show perfect for both the young and the young-at-heart. In KoKERS, Fri 21 Sep – This Is The Artsdepot Greatest Show The show is inspired by inventive landscapes are built and broken 17 Wilton Rd, Pimlico, SW1V apart as the dancers balance, flip, throw, twirl the imagination of PT Barnum. Join the cast of 0844 871 3001 www.theapollovictoria.com West End Singers and LIVE band as you are taken and jump around the playground they have on a journey through music from “The Greatest Sun 16 Sep - Rise and Fall created. In this satisfyingly simple performance, Showman” “Moulin Rouge” “Barnum” and many Explore an ecosystem of balloons: universes the dancers soon realise that the most fun is others. A memorable night that will have you in miniature. In Rise And Fall you’ll meet all to be found when they combine forces. The manner of balloons from small floating moons singing along and dancing in the aisles. This IS performance ends with the young audience to vast bouncing orbs. Forever expanding and the greatest show – not to be missed! being invited onstage to play among props so contracting, balloons are free to float, fly and simple they can be recreated at home. Ages 3+ sway. Hold your breath and go sailing away. Rise The Apollo Victoria and Fall is a poetic and intriguing performance 17 Wilton Rd, Pimlico, SW1V for young audiences about holding on and letting The Beck Theatre 0844 871 3001 www.theapollovictoria.com go. Page One Theatre create visual theatre for Grange Road, Hayes. 020 8561 8371 www.becktheatre.org.uk Ongoing - Wicked Wicked tells the young audiences. Combining movement and incredible untold story of an unlikely but puppetry they produce original and vibrant Thu 13 Sep - Bring Your Own profound friendship between two young performances for children and their families. Baby Comedy Bring Your Own Baby women who first meet as sorcery students at Ages 3-6 yrs Comedy is the UK’s number one baby friendly Shiz University; the blonde and very popular comedy club! The show features some of the Glinda and a misunderstood green girl named Sun 23 Sep - Ariel on the Cliff A funniest comedy stars from the circuit and TV. Elphaba. Their extraordinary adventures in Oz celebration of all things breezy, this gentle, warm This event is all about you… the parents! But will ultimately see them fulfil their destines as show for family audiences mixes acoustic music don’t worry – younger guests are also taken care Glinda The Good and the Wicked Witch of the with sensory storytelling, puppetry, movement of. Soft flooring, toys, buggy parking and baby West. With show-stopping songs by Stephen interaction and big deep breaths. Cloud Cuckoo changing are provided so that your baby is happy Schwartz and adapted for the stage by Winnie Land put children at the heart of the story in this and you can relax, have a coffee (or a cheeky G&T Holzman from the acclaimed novel by Gregory new participatory performance, which includes if you prefer!) and be entertained! Maguire, Wicked is an unforgettable musical that plenty of chances to join in with the action. Ages 3-7 yrs

30 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk What’s On

keep his eyes open. All he wants is for Baby to go Artsdepot - Ariel on the Cliff to sleep so he can catch up on a little shut-eye too. Dad’s usually got some tricks up his sleeve to help send Baby off to the Land of Nod. But tonight, Baby has other ideas… As soon as Dad’s out of the way, Baby gets his hands on the magic top hat, and when his friend Rabbit shows up the fun and games really begin! Mix in some magic, a pinch of circus and a large dollop of silliness and you have the recipe for a little adventure with a lot of laughs! Ages 2-5 yrs

Puppet Theatre Barge Little Venice W9 (During the summer the Barge is at Richmond, TW10) 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com Until Sun 30 Sep - Red Riding Hood (at Richmond) The much-loved story of Little Red Riding Hood is given a new and humorous twist in the tale, in this specially commissioned version by prize-winning author Deborah Jones. The Granny is arty but forgetful, Red Riding Hood is fearful but feisty and the Wolf as dark and mysterious as his forest. Using a combination of marionettes and shadow puppets, this is a magical show that will enchant Sat 29 - Sun 30 Sep - Peppa Compass Theatre both children and adults alike. Pig’s Adventure Join Peppa as she Glebe Avenue, Ickenham UB10 gets ready to go on an exciting camping trip to 01895 673 0200 www.hillingdontheatres.uk the woods with George and her school friends, Unicorn Theatre Sat 1 Sep - Hans, The Witch and 147 Tooley Street, SE1. including Pedro Pony, Suzy Sheep and Gerald The Gobbin In celebration of Compass 020 7645 0560 www.unicorntheatre.com Giraffe. With lunch-boxes packed and Daddy Pig Theatre’s 50th Birthday, the venue’s staff and driving the bus, Peppa and friends are excited Tue 18 Sep – Sat 27 Oct - Mouth volunteers have come together to present a Polarbear about their outdoor adventure, full of games, Open, Story Jump Out revival of the 1st play ever performed on its makes things up: stories, jokes, adventures – laughter and live music! stage. Hans, The Witch and The Gobbin is a he’s a master maker-upper. But where did it all full-length (two intervals!) comedy adventure begin? Mouth Open, Story Jump Out is about the Chickenshed for children, about a witch who’s been stealing moment that started it all, and how one little Chase Side Southgate N14. memories and the chaos that this creates, 020 8292 9222 www.chickenshed.org.uk decision set off a chain reaction that changed across the magical Kingdom of Ickenham, in the his life forever. International assassins, secret Fri 7 Sep - Fri 19 Oct - Planet summer of 1968. Ages 4+ codes, dog-eating boa constrictors and more Welcome to Play Autumn Season emerge when a father disappears and a boy Planet Play, a magical world of sensory learning, Little Angel Theatre discovers a talent for telling tales. An inspiring wonder and exploration, for babies and toddlers 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross St, N1 020 7226 1787 show about the creative potential inside all of us aged 0-3 years. These 45 minute sessions will www.littleangeltheatre.com by one of the UK’s most respected spoken-word encourage young children to develop and explore Thu 13 Sep – Sun 11 Nov - The artists. Ages 8-11 yrs the world around them through song, music, Everywhere Bear The Everywhere movement and a truly sensory experience.Ages Bear has a wonderful time with the children in Tue 25 Sep – Wed 17 Jul - Baby 0-3yrs Class One, but one day he gets more than he Show 2018/19 Baby Show is an ever- bargained for when he falls unnoticed from a popular sensory performance with captivating Fri 7th Sep - Sat 27 Oct - Tales images and intriguing sounds that keep little backpack and embarks on his own big adventure! from the Shed Autumn Season ones rapt. The show playfully explores getting Tales from the Shed are vibrant, interactive He’s washed down a drain and whooshed out ready to go outside.Ages 6-18 months theatre shows that are perfect for young children. to sea, rescued by a fishing boat, loaded onto a They are informal, lively and amazingly engaging lorry, carried off by a seagull… how will he ever as the performers and audience share the same make it back to Class One? This captivating and space - children are always encouraged to make beautiful story from best-selling author Julia a lot of noise and to make the story happen. We Donaldson and illustrator Rebecca Cobb springs guarantee that every show will be fun, really silly to life with rhyme, original music and delightfully MORE and that there will be plenty of colourful puppets expressive puppets in this fun and exciting stage ONLINE and live songs. Fridays at 11.30am and Saturdays adaptation. Ages 3-8 yrs at 10am & 11.30am. Ages: 0-6yrs Fri 21 - Sat 22 Sep - Sleepyhead familiesonline.co.uk It’s been a long day for Dad and he can hardly

familiesonline.co.uk Families North West London 31