ISSUE 109 SEPTEMBER 2016 www.familiesonline.co.uk
· Clubs and Classes feature · Back to school routines · Choosing a school · School Open Day dates
Families West · PO Box 32231 · London W5 1JR · Tel: 020 8930 4707 · Email: [email protected]
NEWS & VIEWS BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE In this issue... After the mayhem and madness of the summer, settling into September brings a welcome calm and structure to family life. Our back to school issue features all those extra clubs and classes that are going on in term time to introduce and develop those things that might ignite a passion in your child. As always, loads going on in West London. It’s time to go through them and start booking your place. Hope the start of the school year goes smoothly for our West London families. We are back in October discussing all things around the local education scene.
Contents Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter Families West Magazine @FamiliesWest News & Views Page 3 ‘Families West is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. Parenting Page 6 All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated Clubs & Classes listings/news Page 8 under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks, SL8 5TD. School Open Day Dates Page 16 The contents of Families West are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. Education/Back to School Page 18 We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for What’s On in West London Page 24 any consequence. ’ Designed by Martin Driscoll. Email: [email protected] Classified Section Page 27 Printed by The MANSON Group Limited, 8 Porters Wood, Valley Road Industrial Estate, St Albans AL3 6PZ. www.mansongroup.co.uk
September 2016 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR 3 Not Just for Bad Backs NEWS & VIEWS Did you know osteopaths are trained and qualified to diagnose and treat Keren’s Nursery is coming to Holland Park all kinds of musculoskeletal aches and pains? And it’s not only the Keren’s nursery, in operation for 12 years, have been running elderly and the athletes who can nurseries that have been judged outstanding by Ofsted in their last benefit from treatment. Conveniently located in Ealing inspection in 2015 (in Belsize Park and Hampstead Garden Common, the Family Health Osteopathy clinic specialises in Nurseries.) They are now opening a new nursery at the Holland Park patient groups such as mums-to-be, new mums, babies, Synagogue. Keren’s is a private Jewish Nursery and Pre-School, that children and teenagers, as well as the rest of the family. takes children from 18 months to 5 years, focusing on key goals of Osteopathy addresses muscle and joint restrictions and social skills, confidence, self-esteem and independence within a Jewish and Israeli con - relieves pain and stresses wherever they occur in the body, text. Staff are highly trained early years specialists, teachers and practitioners. They and osteopaths can also help with rehab and lifestyle advice pride themselves on establishing strong and happy relationships between staff and chil - to keep you on track and in control of your health. dren and amongst the children themselves. Their established track record ensures that For more details or to book an appointment, go to: children will be best prepared for a successful admission into top primary schools. www.familyhealthosteopathy.com Or call 07710 425301. Keren Nursery is open throughout the year and the location of Holland Park Synagogue, close to many transport links makes it a convenient choice for working parents. There Notting Hill & Ealing High School are several outdoor areas for the children as well as a large garden opposite the nursery. They have invested in high quality resources and learning stems from the chil - has a new headteacher Mr Matthew Shoults dren’s own interests. Nursery founder Keren Ben-Ezra says “We make sure that all , children make progress and reach their full potential while nurturing their emotional MA (Oxon) PGCE (Cantab) well-being.” Children are provided with freshly prepared breakfast, hot cooked lunch is taking over the reins from and dinner daily from a kosher in-house kitchen. Make an appointment to see for Ms Lucinda Hunt. yourself by calling nursery manager, Miss Emer Pateman on 07494 540518 Matthew studied Classics at or email: [email protected] www.kerensnursery.com Worcester College, Oxford. He has come from North London’s newest senior school opens in Piccadilly London Collegiate where he Independent sector schools group, Minerva Education, has announced was Deputy Head the launch of a brand new senior school in Piccadilly. Adding to its (Curriculum) in 2010 and Senior Deputy (combining the existing group of six independent schools, Minerva has agreed a 30 year academic and running the school on a day to day basis) lease term on the Grade I listed building, located at 106 Piccadilly, two years later. His hobbies including amateur music opposite Green Park. The site - which was previously home to Limkokwing University - will now be transformed into a much-needed new independ - making (violin and singing), hiking (Scottish Highlands and ent senior school, to be named Eaton Square Upper School, Mayfair. European Alps), cooking and crosswords. Phillip Williams will assume the role of head teacher at the school, which On his appointment Matthew said “Right from my first is due to open in September 2017. Having achieved a first class degree in visit to Notting Hill and Ealing, I have been struck by Mathematics and Philosophy at Merton College, Oxford, Philip brings over the school’s warm and friendly atmosphere, and how 20 years of experience in the education sector. grounded and assured the girls are. The last 12 years Eaton Square Upper School will provide its students with the highest teaching has given me a keen sense of the confidence quality of education thanks to cutting-edge classroom resources and and community which a girls’ only education can provide; specialised learning spaces. Some of the new facilities on offer will include a purpose-built refectory, fully equipped science and design & technology I am delighted to be joining a school with such a positive laboratories, and specialist music rooms. Students will also be able to and enabling ethos, which is both academic and rich in enjoy the beautiful Green Park for physical education classes and outdoor activities beyond the classroom, and with such good learning sessions. The school will be co-educational and academically relations between staff and students.” non-selective, with the same family-focused ethos that the education Matthew is the first male Head in the school's 143 year group’s schools pride themselves on. www.eatonsquareupper.school history. Not for girls, not for boys, Polarn O. Pyret make clothes for children Scandinavians are renowned for their functional design and progressive social attitudes. The top four ranking countries for gender equality are all Scandinavian. How does this translate into clothing for babies and children? Leading childrenswear brand, Polarn O. Pyret of Sweden, have been designing unisex clothing for over 40 years with a philosophy to ‘Let children be children’. Famous for their classic stripes in navy and red, Polarn O. Pyret’s head designer Karina Lundell states “There is no difference in the body-shape of girls and boys until around age 12 years. So we design most of our clothing to be worn by children, not just boys or girls. What colour they choose is up to them”. Unisex clothing is easier to hand down and PO.P is renowned for durability, the clothes are made to be worn by as many chil - dren as possible, not just one. The cost-per-wear value goes up and impact on the environment goes down. Don’t forget to use your exclusive POLARN O. PYRET 15% off discount code FAM15 to save on the latest Scandi styles. www.polarnopyret.co.uk
4 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR September 2016 Term time, 9.15am - 3.15pm. For children aged 2-5 years. The nursery follows the Montessori method. We offer French, Ballet, Music, Click IT, Art & Drama and Yoga. Full and part time sessions are available. Qualified and experienced teachers maintain a high standard of learning and care. A brand new Montessori school offering 8.00am to 6.00pm for 50 weeks of the year, located just a few minutes from Ealing Broadway station. A sister school to the well established and highly regarded St Matthew’s Montessori School. St Matthew’s Church. North Common Road, Ealing W5 2QA St Matthew’s Montessori School. A safe and secure and intimate setting with a focus on nurturing the whole child. Phone: 07495 898760 / 07956 228 959 Email: [email protected] Website: www.lemontreemontessori.com Lemon Tree Montessori Nursery School Telephone: 07495 898 760 · Mobile: 07956 228 959 45a The Mall · Ealing W5 3TJ. Email: [email protected] (Behind Kinleigh Folkard Hayward Estate Agents). Web: www.lemontreemonessori.com We would welcome the opportunity to share with you the purposeful atmosphere that makes our schools so special. “The aim of the setting is to create a calm, productive atmosphere where each child develops a love of learning and skills for the future. The children are settled, happy, confident and motivated and the activities offered to them are challenging .” MEAB Accreditor
See all the latest news, views and what’s on listings on our brand new website: www.familiesonline.co.uk
September 2016 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR 5 PARENTING By Philippe Fraser
A French “Pause” sensitive reactors. for all occasions The self-soothing camp believes a child should From the moment a new be left alone, to self- baby is born, parents do sooth, even if this means everything they can to a child screaming its protect and help their head off. At the oppo - children. A new-born is site extreme, parents fragile, precious and jump straight in trying to needs to be looked comfort a child at the pause a parent’s a child is used to waiting after. However, there first sign of a gurgle. protective instincts, and will increase - even if at comes a time when the observe the child. Is the first it must be kept short. instinct to jump in and fix Our solution? child just mid-cycle, or A child has to learn that everything actually slows “The Pause .” does he or she actually waiting gets result. a child’s progress. Children sleep in much need something? Finishing your verbal shorter sleep cycles than The Pause also ensures paragraph is the perfect There are two main adults, and between a parent does not go all length to start with, but areas where children each phase of sleep, it is the way to the extreme once a child under - need to be given a not unusual for a child to of just leaving a child stands that “wait” does little time: sleep and gain awareness almost when he or she is clearly mean you will give them patience. to the point of being in distress. A child needs attention once you are There are two broad awake. At this point, a to feel loved and ready, the length of time camps of prevailing child may well make supported and the risk can be increase suc - thought on these various natural noises. with self-soothing, is that cessfully. In her excellent matters - I am going to But left to his own a child will not learn to book; How to Talk so propose a middle-way devices, will then start feel safe – but rather will Kids will Listen , Adele instead. towards the next deep feel abandoned. Faber writes of the sleep cycle. The risk The Pause allows a par - advantages of a short First, what are the two here, is of jumping in to ent to assess if their child direct message. Children schools of thought? check on a baby, and actually needs support, quickly lose interest in For sleep the division is actually waking the and can then provide it long explanations - so a between the self- child completely. The as required. short “wait” is much soothers and the point of the pause, is to This practice also follows more effective than a into all other areas as a more laborious reply. child grows up. If two adults are having a Children have the ability conversation when one to improve their of their children comes patience skills, and as up, the usual reaction is adults we have a to either stay “stop” or to responsibility to help immediately give the them experience it. child attention. Again A child that is content the middle way works withwaiting, is the start of here by saying “wait ,” a child who can devel - If said in a short, sharp op internal resources to manner, a child will cope with frustration. usually stop in its tracks and wait. If it really is Philippe Fraser, Director of pressing, the child will the Bilingual Nurseries group, not be put off by a with a nursery in Gloucester simple “wait .” Yet, over Terrace, Paddington. time, the length of time www.bilingualnurseries.com
6 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR September 2016 September 2016 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR 7 CLUBS & CLASSES The benefits of after school clubs and classes
Whether or not you think around the world, kids don’t even you may be raising the start school until 6 or 7 years old, ROLE MODELS’ Confidence & Resilience a full day in the classroom for Courses next Picasso or David Help children to present themselves Beckham, there’s no youngsters can be a big ask. effectively and react positively to pressure. That’s why an alternative to text - They teach children to value collaboration doubting the pluses of book learning can be hugely and imagination and to develop a robust after school clubs. approach to setbacks. The courses include rewarding. debating, public speaking, team building While finances may not permit So, why are clubs so important? and interview practice. Their courses your little ones being involved in Team sports like football, rugby, include 8 week Saturday morning programmes from Sept 17th - Nov 19th different activities every night of and netball are not only brilliant (10am-12pm) in Chelsea, and courses the week, there’s no doubt that for keeping kids active but also from Oct 24-27th (10am-3pm) in Putney a couple of well-chosen clubs helping them learn team and Chelsea for Years 3 & 4 and Years 5-7. [email protected] can be great for giving your child work where they can begin to 020 7164 6397 an insight into areas that the appreciate what’s good for the school curriculum doesn’t cover. whole team, rather than just From ballet to basketball and art thinking of themselves. Arabic for Women to archery, there’s an after school Competitive sports are also great and Children activity out there for every child. for learning difficult life lessons like And the best thing about them being a gracious winner - and Families welcome – is they’re brilliant for all sorts of loser. Goal Oriented reasons - not just learning a new However, if you’re on the lookout skill. for team building clubs with a • Dynamic • Innovative For a start, after school clubs give less competitive edge, you could • E ective • Native Female kids the chance to let off steam consider Brownies and Scouts - Teacher (& mother of 3!) outside of the classroom. Call Reem on When you consider that in 07956 845 053 From Baby to Bal1lerina many countries Classes for Boys and Girls aged 2 /2 to 16 years old Ballet, Pointe Work, Jazz, Tap, Annual Performances
Classes held in: Bayswater, Notting Hill Gate, Oxford Street, Shepherds Bush and South Kensington
8 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR September 2016 kids love them! while ballet and dance Archery, chess, horse building aside, the most Meanwhile, learning a is suited for kids to riding, computer clubs, important thing to think musical instrument is learn discipline and self- film making and even about when deciding ideal for discovering the expression. circus skills are all proving which club to choose is art of practice, patience And don’t forget popular alongside the the fun factor . and persistence. Drama the fun factor! more traditional arts and clubs are perfect for shy The list is endless. crafts, swimming, tennis kids who learn to find There are clubs for and Kung Fu. their voice singing and almost anything you However, new skills, team Clubs & Classes listings begin on page 10 acting alongside others, can imagine. work and confidence
September 2016 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR 9 CLUBS & CLASSES CONTINUED
COOKERY WEST LONDON YMCA TWISTERS (W13, W7, W3). MARTIAL ARTS www.WestLondonYMCA.org Run a range of exciting active THE KIDS COOKERY SCHOOL. classes for children from age 1 to SEIDO KARATE www.thekidscookeryschool.co.uk MUSIC LESSONS teens in Gymnastics, Ballet, Dance www.seido-london.co.uk 020 8992 8882 Drama, Street and Tap. EALING JUNIOR MUSIC SCHOOL Hermione on 020 8933 9997 SMOUHA KARATE SCHOOL PAINT POTS HOUSE CREATIVE Twyford Church of England High or Louise on 020 8840 4452 www.smouhakarate.com CLASSES (W2 5QT) . School, W3 every Saturday (in term www.twisters.org.uk Cook for Fun for ages 18 months - time) 8.30-1.30pm teaching music WEST LONDON YMCA 2½ years on Weds to children aged 3-18. Individual WEST LONDON YMCA www.WestLondonYMCA.org 9.30 - 10.30am or 11am -12pm. orchestral instrumental lesson www.WestLondonYMCA.org www.paint-pots.co.uk courses available including RIDING 08456 43 44 41 Ensembles/choirs/theory. From age FOOTBALL 3 Musicianship classes (group music EALING RIDING SCHOOL & movement) available. Free 1st MUSIC AND MOVEMENT KIDDIKICKS Football www.ealingridingschool.biz Term of Ensemble/Orchestras/Choir (W2,W4,W8,W10,W11) and Courses. AMANDA’S ACTION CLUB 020 7937 7965 WEST LONDON STABLES www.ejms.org.uk www.amandasactionclub.co.uk [email protected] www.westlondonstables.co.uk 0208 930 0579 07946 707695 www.kiddikicks.co.uk [email protected] RUGBY BLUEBERRY PLAYSONGS QPR SOCCER SCHOOL THE MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN www.qprcommunitytrust.co.uk www.blueberryplaysongs.co.uk RUGBYTOTS www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk www.rugbytots.co.uk PAINT POTS HOUSE CREATIVE GOLF CLASSES (W2 5QT) . Ealing Trailfinders Rugby Sensorial Explorers for ages 12-18 GYMNASTICS BRENT VALLEY GOLF COURSE [email protected] months. Tuesdays. 11am-12pm. www.bvgc.org www.ealingrugby.co.uk www.paint-pots.co.uk THE LITTLE GYM 08456 43 44 41 www.thelittlegym.co.uk DUKES MEADOW GOLF www.dukesmeadows.com
10 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR September 2016 SWIMMING www.perform.org.uk 0808 208 5134 [email protected] [email protected] 02072559120 www.stagecoach.co.uk/acton WATERBABIES Ealing: Hobbayne Primary School, Multi-award winning baby swim - Greenford Ave,Hanwell, W7 1HA ming classes taught by world-class STAGECOACH PERFORMING ARTS North Ealing School, Pitshanger teachers. Teaching water confidence SCHOOLS - 4 to 18 years Stagecoach aims to bring out the Lane, Ealing, W5 1RP and safety skills from birth, their ALLSORTS DRAMA FOR CHILDREN very best in every child through act - 01494 264 910 classes have saved more than a run their popular drama classes ing, dancing and singing! Students [email protected] dozen children from drowning. during term time. also develop excellent communica - www.stagecoach.co.uk/ealing Bayswater: 42 Westbourne Park Rd Friday’s at More House School, tion skills, grow in self-esteem and Maida Vale: QE2 Jubilee School 22-24 Pont Street SW1 for ages 4- enjoy the benefits of improved co- Great Ormond Street: 6 from 4pm - 5pm and ages 7-11, ordination and fitness levels. DANCE Great Ormond Street Hospital 11-13 and 14-18 from 5pm - 7pm Venues: Fulham: Charing Cross Hospital and on Saturday’s at Notting Hill Chiswick: Strand on The Green ANGELA GRANT SCHOOL Putney: Putney Leisure Centre and Prep School, Lancaster Road W11 School, Thames Road, OF DANCE Greenmead School and South Hampstead Girls School, Chiswick W4 3NX and The William www.balletclasseslondon.co.uk Battersea: Latchmere Leisure Centre Netherhall Gardens NW3 for ages 4- Hogarth School, Duke Road, Balham: Henry Cavendish School 6 from 10am-11am and ages 7-11, Chiswick, W4 2JR DANCE GALLERY Tooting: Tooting Leisure Centre 11-13 and 14-18 from 11pm-1pm. Tel: 020 8398 4709 Teach many different types of www.waterbabies.co.uk Tel 0208 767 5298 or for further [email protected]. uk dance including jazz, street dance 020 7585 1510 info visit: www.allsortsdrama.com www.stagecoach.co.uk/ chiswick and tap. The structured lessons Allsorts also run wonderful holiday Kensington: Addison Primary promote fitness, confidence and TENNIS workshops and arrange bespoke School, Addison Gardens, London pupils learn routinues that build drama parties. WILL TO WIN W14 0DT, Kensington United towatds their famous ‘sell out’ Reformed Church, Allen Street, W8 musical theatre shows performed www.willtowin.co.uk PERFORM Drama, Dance & Singing and St Barnabas & St Philips School, at Questors Theatre in Ealing. Ealing, Maida Vale, Marylebone, 58 Earl’s Court Road, Kensington St Stephen’s Hall, Ealing W13 8HB TRAMPOLINING Acton, Barons Court, Brook Green, W8 6EJ www.dancegallery.co.uk Chiswick, Hammersmith ,Ladbroke OXYGEN SCHOOL OF TRAMPOLINING Tel: 020 8398 8106 [email protected] Grove, Notting Hill, Shepherds Bush, ACTON kensington@stagecoach. 020 8566 96 Turnham Green and West Tuesday 5pm: Ages 6–10 www.stagecoach.co.uk/ kensingt on Kensington. Tuesday 6pm: Ages 11–15 Acton: Holy Family Primary Perform is a unique type of Tuesday 7pm: Ages 16+ School,Vale Lane, West Acton, children’s drama school. Focusing Clubs & Classes listings Thursday 7pm: Ages 11-15 London W3 0DY on child development, Perform continue on page 12 Thursday 8pm: Ages 16+ uses a specially formulated mix of Saturday 10am: Ages 6-10 drama, dance and singing to bring Saturday 11am: Ages 11-15 out every child's true potential. Airborne timetable Small class sizes ensure lots of Monday: 7pm – 8pm individual attention by the experi - Tuesday: 7pm – 8pm enced actor-teachers who focus on Wednesday: 7pm – 8pm developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Thursday: 7pm – 8pm Communication, Coordination and Friday: 7pm – 8pm Concentration and having the best www.oxygenfreejumping.co.uk fun of the week. Times and prices are subject to PERFORMING ARTS change and please contact the venue before setting out. JIGSAW ARTS Ealing, Maida Vale, Marylebone, Dance, drama and singing classes Acton, Barons Court, Brook Green, on Saturday mornings. Chiswick, Hammersmith ,Ladbroke 3-18 years. Two week trial available. Grove, Notting Hill, Shepherds Bush, Drayton Manor High School, Ealing. Turnham Green and West www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk Kensington. 020 8447 4530
September 2016 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR 11 CLUBS & CLASSES CONTINUED
subject to change and please contact the venue before setting out. Ealing, Maida Vale, Marylebone, Acton, Barons Court, Brook Green, Chiswick, Hammersmith, Ladbroke Grove, DIDDIDANCE (TW6 & W14) Notting Hill, Shepherds Bush, Funky pre-school dance class for Turnham Green and West girls and boys aged 18 months - 4 Kensington. years. They realise and encourage www.perform.org.uk KITE STUDIOS READING EGGS endless enthusiasm and energy in [email protected] www.kitestudios.org The programme has been created an action packed, full of fun 45 02072559120 to help children aged 3-13 to learn minute dance class. Using various SCHOOL SUPPORT and further develop those skills. dancing games and exercises, bells, TWISTERS The programme is all online and hoops and dance ribbons to their Run classes in Ballet, Dance, EXPLORE LEARNING can be used on a computer, laptop own funky pop songs your little Drama, Street and Tap. Maths & English Tuition Centres and most tablets making it instantly one not only improves their rhythm Free trial class available. 5-14 years. Free Trial session. attractive to children. For a 5 week and coordination but also social [email protected] Ealing 020 8090 8710 free trial, please visit the website. and gross motor skills. They also Call Hermione on 020 8933 9997, Hayes 020 8561 8530 www.readingeggs.co.uk/read8 look at different dance styles every or Louise on 020 8840 4452 Westfield London 020 809 01216 half term from salsa and hip hop www.twisters.org.uk www.explorelearning.co.uk to country and disco. Weekly FLEET TUTORS LANGUAGE CLASSES classes held around west London. WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY National tutoring service with Affordable nursery sessions and offers dynamic and enjoyable many years’ experience in helping Arabic for Arabs and non-Arabs parties also available. classes in Ballet and Tap dance to students of all ages and abilities, in Female Native Arabic teacher [email protected] children of all ages. Based in all academic subjects from school Ealing Arabic School Saturday 07426 009179 Chiswick and Ealing, our main entry and Common Entrance 10.00 - 14.00 (A level class). objective is to inspire good tech - through to GCSE, A-Level and Private lessons for adults and INNOVATIONS nique and progression within University. Recommended by ‘The children. Special expertise in GCSE www.innovationdancestudios.co.uk a lively and fun environment. Good Schools Guide .’ and A level Arabic qualification www.westlondondanceacademy.com [email protected] courses. Goal oriented tailor made LAIRD ACADEMY OF DANCE, www.fleet-tutors.co.uk for all levels according to student CHISWICK (W4) WEST LONDON SCHOOL OF DANCE 020 8580 3911 requirements. Saturday classes for ages 3+ are Ballet classes from age 2 ½- 2. Exam surgeries for GCSE, A level taught by enthusiastic and highly New ballet staff join their team - LEARN HAPPY LONDON and University students. qualified teachers in Chiswick. Ballerina Roberta Marquez [email protected] All levels welcome, complete The Laird Academy follows the from the Royal Ballet and Penny Kay www.learnhappylondon.co.uk beginners are especially welcome! Royal Academy of Dance syllabus dip.RBS,TTC, FISTD, ARAD 07956 845053 for Primary through to Grade 8. Studios in W1, W1, W11, W12 MRS JONES EDUCATION [email protected] Contemporary dance classes are and SW7. 020 8390 6076 also available. 020 8743 3856 www.11plustuition.co.uk CLUB PETIT PIERROT Contact Deidre Laird, Principal. [email protected] Est 1993. Fun French lessons for [email protected] www.westlondonschoolofdance.co.uk VICTORIA PAGE PRIVATE TUITION children from 8 mths to 8 yrs old. Tel/Text: 07816 008 969 1 Parent and toddler groups (with for ages 2 /2yrs - 11+ Scholarship. www.laird-academy.co.uk KENSINGTON BALLET Fully qualified teacher with many multi-sensory activities), after-school 18months-2 years years experience. (est. 1982) classes, Saturdays & Holiday clubs. PERFORM X Kensington, Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Exceptional References. Private Excellent results, fantastic team of Perform X is a brand new dance- Notting Hill and Fulham. tutoring instead of school or extra native French teachers. Venues based class for 6-12s. These unique 07957 650042 tuition after school. Maths, English, include Notting Hill, St John’s high-energy weekly sessions are www.kensingtonballet.com Reading, Verbal and Non Verbal Wood, Maida Vale, Hampstead designed to boost your child's Reasoning, 11+ Common Entrance, (*new classes at JW3 Centre and co-ordination, improve their WEST LONDON YMCA Preparatory School Exams & Nursery St Anthony School for Girls), concentration and give them a fun www.WestLondonYMCA.org Syllabus. Putney, Earlsfield & Chelsea (with energetic way to develop physical 0705 0246810 (no texts) new classes during the week at skills, get fit and have fun. Using ARTS AND CRAFTS or 0207 381 9911 The Hut, Alpha Place SW3). original street and hip-hop music, www.victoriapage.net Private tuition at home for the class is based around a specially PAINT POTS HOUSE CREATIVE individuals and mini-groups also designed curriculum which includes CLASSES ( W2 5QT) PAINT POTS HOUSE offered. They use their own educa - a mix of energetic games, physical Classes include Toddler Art and CREATIVE CLASSES tional French CD of original songs improvisations and high octane Music for ages 18 months - 2½ (W2 5QT) and rhymes - available to buy at exhilarating moves guaranteed to years on Mon and Tues 9.30- Early Montessori Class for ages 18 amazon.co.uk Highly recommended get young hearts beating faster. 10.30am, Art, Craft, Music and months - 2½ years on Thursday’s by BBC, Daily Telegraph, Daily All class materials are produced by Movement for ages 2 - 3 on Mon 3-4.30pm. Express & Time Out. Perform and, at the end of each 11am-12.30pm and Art Club for 08456 43 44 41 FREE TRIAL LESSON. term, there's a performance of a ages 3-6 on Mon 4-5pm. www.paint-pots.co.uk 020 7385 5565 choreographed piece to a specially www.paint-pots.co.uk [email protected] written track. Times and prices are 08456 43 44 41 www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk
12 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR September 2016 September 2016 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR 13 CLUBS & CLASSES
Learn to read in 5 weeks for free with New baby class in Bayswater Reading Eggs Join the new baby class for 12 – 18 month olds Reading Eggs provides a comprehensive range of at Paint Pots House Creative Classes Bayswater. online reading lessons and e-books that teach children “Sensorial Explorers” is a stepping-stone to the aged 3-13 the literacy skills needed for a lifetime of Toddler Art and Music classes at Paint Pots and reading success. Join more than 3.4 million users is best suited for children who are beginning to worldwide and claim your special 5 weeks free access move around independently. The environment today! created stimulates all senses with different Why try Reading Eggs? textures, scented objects, visual stimulation and • Suitable for children aged 3-13. sound-making, all at floor level. This class gives • Over 91% of parents report a noticeable children the freedom to fully explore ‘what does improvement in their child’s reading within it do?’ and ‘what can I do with it?’ through a weeks. variety of objects. Instruments and props are • The programme makes learning phonics, sight provided during the music time where both words and essential reading skills fun. children and adults are encouraged to join in on • Your child can progress through the one-on-one the fun. To book a taster or to sign up for the lessons at their own pace. term visit: www.paint-pots.co.uk • You can track their learning with detailed progress reports and assessments. Jigsaw Arts amongst finalists at this Take advantage of their special no-obligation 5 weeks year’s Lloyds Bank national business free access today and see how your child’s reading can improve with Reading Eggs. Simply register your awards child at: www.readingeggs.co.uk/learn9 Jigsaw has offered weekend performing arts classes *Free trial only available to new customers who sign to children aged 3-18 across London and the up at the above address. Home Counties for over 20 years. 2016 has been Free trial offer ends 30th September 2016. an exciting year for the company, as Jigsaw has Not applicable for schools. been shortlisted for The Business Award for Arts and Creative Services in the 2016 Lloyds Bank TWISTERS National Business Awards. At the start of the new On Friday 9th September Twisters will be academic year, children will be lacing up their jazz holding a free stay and play session at their shoes and taking a leap into the performing arts Acton venue for children aged 6 months to 4 for the first time, gaining the opportunity to build years from 9.15am-12 noon. confidence and develop social skills whilst having Come along and while the children play have a lots of fun. “At Jigsaw, we understand that attend - chance to meet new friends and old. You can ing a performing arts school for the first time can also chat to them about their range of classes be an exciting but nervous experience. That is why and have the opportunity to book a trial. For we offer a two week trial, giving the student the existing customers you're also welcome to book opportunity to try Jigsaw .” Jigsaw offers drama, for next term if you haven't yet done so. They look forward to seeing some familiar faces singing and dance classes in Ealing. and new ones. For any other information please For information visit: www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk email: [email protected] or call: 0208 4474530.
14 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR September 2016 NEWS & VIEWS New Principal and changes to West London Dance Academy. Previous owner of West London Dance Academy, Judith Townsend decided to hang up her dancing shoes in July to concentrate on her family. She chose to sell her thriving academy of 10 years to one of her loyal and long term teachers, Natalie Parnell. Natalie has been dancing since the age of 3 and teaching for 25 years. She is a fellow member of both the IDTA and ISTD. She trained with Squires School of Dance and ran her own successful dance studio in Kent for 15 years, training many students, and maintains a teaching role with a Hungarian Ballet company. Natalie joined the West London Dance Academy in 2011 teaching classes at both Natalie Parnell New Principal branches. She says “I am thrilled to be taking over as principal and owner, and can’t wait to and Director of West London Dance Academy get started. Judith ran a very tight professional ship and we achieved outstanding exam results throughout the 10 years. I now hope to do the same along with introducing lots of new ideas such as performance classes giving the pupils the chance to learn other dance styles whilst showing off their amazing techniques in front of a large audience. We have not offered this before although many of our pupils have starred in the West End in shows such as 'Lion King’ ‘Billy Elliott’ and ‘London Children’s Ballet’. Professional Dance Teacher Training Courses will be offered for pupils of 16 years and above enabling them to become fully qualified dance teachers themselves. Some of our advanced pupils have already gained full-time places at The Royal Ballet School, Arts Ed and Tring Park. So whilst pupils continue to excel in their Ballet and Tap Exams which are taken every term, we can look forward to some new and exciting times ahead for West London Dance Academy." For information and to book a free trial lesson contact: [email protected] Or visit: www.westlondondanceacademy.com
Do you have a Little O Explorer? Parents sometimes struggle to find the perfect activity for them and their toddler. Activities are either too dull, too focused on ‘big kids ,’ or simply no-fun for the adult. We have the solution! Every morning London’s favourite Trampoline Park is transformed into a Toddler’s paradise! From 9- 11am it is you and your Little O’s opportunity to explore everything that Oxygen has to offer, and few special bits we reserve just for Toddlers. Parents will create great memories with their Little O’s as they watch their little explorer start bouncing sometimes even before they can walk. Every Little O morning is full of fun and games, you can take- off into the airbag, dodge your way around the obstacle course, roll through parachute runs, or just enjoy their first bounce! Toddlers are born Little O explorers, they need no encouragement and jump straight into it (literally), and however the adults sometimes need a little nudge to embrace their inner big kid. So during September every accompanying adult jumps free, meaning there is no excuse for both Little O and Big O not to be jumping. Not convinced yet? As a reward after every session you can pop into the Little O coffee morning and have a well-deserved coffee on the house. To book a Little O session visit: http://oxygenfreejumping.co.uk /activities/little-os/
September 2016 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR 15 We have listed schools in postcode order from W1 - W14 and then outside the ‘W’ postcodes that serve children living in West London. There is plenty of advice on our website on what you should be looking for when you do the tour of schools. Don’t forget to log in with your postcode so you SCHOOL OPEN DAY DATES get the information that is relevant to your local area at: www.familieswest.co.uk
School Address Age Dates Contact details Eaton Square Upper School 106 Piccadilly, Mayfair W1J 7NL 11-16 By appointment www.eatonsquareupper.school [email protected] Portland Place School 56-58 Portland Place W1B 1NJ 9-18 Tours: 26 Sept, 10 Oct, 020 7307 8700 21 Nov 9-11am. www.portland-place.co.uk Open morning: 12 Nov 10am-12 noon [email protected]
Southbank International School 63-65 Portland Place, W1B 1QR 11-18 24 Nov 9.30-11am. By appointment 020 7243 3803 (Westminster Campus) www.southbank.org [email protected]
Hyde Park Nursery and The Long Garden Albion Street 2-5 12 Oct 9.30am 020 7262 1190 Pre-Preparatory School W2 2AX www.hydeparkschool.co.uk [email protected]
Connaught House School 47 Connaught Square, London W2 2HL 4-8B By appointment 020 7262 8830 4-11G www.connaughthouseschool.co.uk [email protected]
Pembridge Hall 18 Pembridge Square W2 4EH 4-11G By appointment 020 7229 0121 www.pembridgehall.co.uk [email protected]
Arts Educational Schools London Cone Ripman House, 14 Bath Rd, W4 1LY 11-18 28 Sept for 11-16 year olds entry. 020 8987 6600 27 Sept for Sixth Form entry www.artsed.co.uk [email protected]
Orchard House School 16 Newton Grove, W4 1LB 3-11 8 Oct 9.30am-12noon 020 8742 8544 W4 1LB www.orchardhs.org.uk [email protected]
Heathfield House School Turnham Green Church Hall, 4-11 By appointment 0208 994 3385 Heathfield Gardens, W4 4JU www.heathfieldhouse.co.uk
Chiswick and Bedford Park Priory House, Priory Avenue, W4 1TX 3-7B By appointment 020 8994 1804 Preparatory School 3-11G www.cbppschool.co.uk [email protected]
The Falcons Pre-Prep School 2 Burnaby Gardens, 3-7B 24 Sept 10.30am-12.30pm 020 8747 8393 for Boys Chiswick W4 3DT www.falconschool.com [email protected]
Clifton Lodge School 8 Mattock Lane, Ealing, W5 5BG 3-13 8 Oct 020 8579 3662 www.cliftonlodgeschool.co.uk [email protected]
Durston House 12 Castlebar Road Ealing, 4-13B By appointment 020 8991 6532 W5 2DR www.durstonhouse.org [email protected]
St Benedict’s School Junior School and Nursery 3-18 Open Mornings: Nursery: 020 8862 2254 (age 3-11) 6 Oct, 3, 24 Nov 9.30-11.15am. www.stbenedicts.org.uk 5, Montpelier Avenue, Ealing, W5 2XP Junior School: [email protected] 15 Sept, 8 Nov 9.30-11.15am. Senior School and Sixth Form Senior School: 13 Sept, 13 Oct, 14 Nov 9.15-11am. (age 11-18) Sixth Form Open evening: 10 Oct (advance booking only) 54, Eaton Rise, Ealing, W5 2ES Saturday Open Morning for whole school:1 Oct, 10am-12.30pm. (no booking necessary)
Harvington Prep School 20 Castlebar Rd, Ealing, W5 2DS 3-4 co-ed By appointment 0208 997 1583 5-11G www.harvingtonschool.com [email protected]
St Augustine’s Priory Hillcrest Rd, Ealing, W5 2JL 3-18G Open day:8 Oct 10am-12 noon 020 8997 2022 Sixth form: 5 Oct 5pm. www.sapriory.com School in Action: [email protected] 1 Nov 9.15am for year 3-6, 11 Nov 9.15am for Nursery-year 2
Barbara Speake Stage School East Acton Lane, W3 7EG 3-16 By appointment 020 8743 1306 www.barbaraspeake.com [email protected] 16 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR September 2016 School Address Age Dates Contact details International School 139 Gunnersbury Avenue 3-18 By appointment 020 8992 5823 of London W3 8LG www.isllondon.org
Latymer Prep School 36 Upper Mall, Hammersmith 7-11 Open days throughout the Autumn term. 0845 638 5700 W6 9TA Telephone for an appointment. www.latymerprep.org/open-mornings [email protected]
Latymer Upper School King Street, Hammersmith 11-18 10 Sept, 8 Oct 11+ entrance only. 0845 638 5721 W6 9LR (children in Year 6). www.latymer-upper.org 30 Sept- Sixth Form open evening. [email protected]
St Paul’s Girls School Brook Green W6 7BS 11-18G 11+ entry 29 Sept 5pm, 020 7605 4882 8 Oct 9am and 11.15am, www.spgs.org 31 Oct 5pm [email protected]
Godolphin and Latymer School Iffley Road, W6 0PG 11-18G For 11+ entry: 22, 27 Sept, 12 Oct, 020 8741 1936 4.45 - 7 pm www.godolphinandlatymer.com 6th Form- 6 Oct, 4.45pm. [email protected]
Hawkesdown House 27 Edge Street, W8 7PN 3-8B By appointment 020 7727 9090 www.hawkesdown.co.uk
Thomas’s Kensington 39-41 Victoria Road, W8 5RJ 3-11 By appointment 020 7937 0583 (Lower School) (Lower School-age 4-7) 020 7361 6500 (Preparatory School) (Prep School-age 7-11) 17-19 Cottesmore Gardens, W8 5PR www.thomas-s.co.uk [email protected]
The Lloyd Williamson School 12 Telford Road, W10 5SH 6 months- By appointment 020 8962 0345 14 yrs www.lloydwilliamson.co.uk
Bassett House School 60 Bassett Road, W10 6JP 3-11 8 Oct 10am-12.30pm 020 8969 0313 www.bassetths.org.uk
Notting Hill Preparatory School 95 Lancaster Rd, W11 1QQ 4-13 By appointment 020 7221 0727 www.nottinghillprep.com [email protected]
Southbank International School 36-38 Kensington Park Road, 3-11 21 Oct 9.30-11am by appointment 020 7243 3803 (Kensington Campus) W11 3BU www.southbank.org [email protected]
Norland Place School 162-166 Holland Park Avenue, 4-8B By appointment 020 7603 9103 W11 4UH 4-11G www.norlandplace.com [email protected]
Avenue House School 70 The Avenue, Ealing, W13 8LS 3-11 Individual tours by appointment 020 8998 9981 www.avenuehouse.org [email protected]
Notting Hill and Ealing 26 St Stephens Road, W13 8HH 4-18G. Junior- 4+ and 7+: (Parents Only) Admissions (Mrs Barwell)-020 8991 2165 High School (GDST) (Junior) Entry at 4+ 21 Sept 10.15am Booking essential. 7+, 11+ 4 Oct 1.15am 20 Oct 10.15am www.nhehs.gdst.net and 16+ Senior: (Parents Only) [email protected] 27 Sept 10 Oct 10.45am 10 Nov 10.45am Senior School Open Evening: 19 Oct 4.30pm (Parents and girls welcome - no need to book) Sixth Form: 4 Oct 6pm
Eaton Square School 79 Eccleston Square, SW1V 1PP 2.5-13 By appointment 020 7931 9469 www.eatonsquareschool.com [email protected]
Westminster Under School Adrian House 27 Vincent Square 7-13B 10, 24 Sept for 7+ and 8+ 020 7821 5788 Westminster SW1P2NN 8 Oct for 1 1+ www.westminsterunder.org.uk
Fulham Pre Prep School 47A Fulham High Street 4-7 18 Oct, 17 Nov 020 7371 9911 www.fulhamprep.co.uk [email protected]
Hyde Park Preparatory 24 Elvaston Place, 5 -11 By appointment 020 7225 3131 School and Nursery SW7 5NL www.hydeparkschool.co.uk/preparatory [email protected]
Thames Christian School Wye St, SW11 2HB 11-16 22 Sept 11am-1pm 020 7228 3933 1 Oct 11am-1pm www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk 4 Oct 11am-1pm [email protected] 3rd Nov 11am-1pm
Orley Farm School South Hill Avenue Harrow on the Hill 4-13 8 Oct 10am-12pm 020 8869 7634 Middx HA1 3NU or Wednesday mornings by appointment www.orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk [email protected]
ACS Hillingdon Hillingdon Court, Vine Lane 4-18 1 Oct 10am-12noon 01895 259771 International School Hillingdon, Middlesex, www.acs-schools.com/acs-hillingdon UB10 0BE [email protected]
September 2016 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR 17 BACK TO SCHOOL By Sally J Hall
settled into a good Getting routine is essential if you your child are going to ensure they get enough sleep and into a good are able to get up on routine... time for school without too much effort and As you and your moaning. child get into the autumn and Exercise is your best friend winter school Even if the weather is term, it can be dreadful, try to make difficult to cope sure that your kids have with changing some exercise every weather and dull day. Not only will it help keep them fit and days. the playground or let time can slip away when healthy but it also helps them loose in the they are distracted. The long evenings of them to get a good garden. Then it’s time for summer are over, the night’s sleep. The best homework, dinner, bath Be prepared nights draw in and the time is just after school, and bed. Getting things prepared mornings are dark. when it’s still light and the night before can Getting your child you can take them to Plan your mornings help immensely with the Most parents would morning rush, so prepare agree; mornings are bad lunchboxes and get times! Everyone is tired breakfast things out the and cranky and if you’re night before. not careful, it can descend into chaos. Have rules So having a routine that Make sure there are is followed every school rules for where things are day can help immense - put when your kids arrive ly. Set an alarm for 15 home each day. Let minutes before you them know that they need to get the kids up can’t just dump their and get yourself togeth - gear anywhere! Those er in that time. Whether school bags, shoes and it’s that first cup of tea, a coats must go in a spe - shower or choosing what cific place so that there to wear, make sure you is no frantic searching in have time for you first - the morning, with every - and everything else will one getting frustrated. go that bit more smooth - Sticking to this routine ly. Then it’s time to get makes for a happier the kids up and for them family. to follow their routine, too. Avoid any electron - Make sure they know ic stimulation in the their routine too morning, so ban games, Having a planner on X-Boxes and the TV, as view is a great way to
18 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR September 2016 avoid missing tutoring For big kids For all children For little ones sessions, music lessons Use technology to help Allow them to plan With younger children, a and play dates. A big you. There are several events that go into very visual calendar that calendar on the fridge family apps that are free the daily or weekly rou - they can refer to makes means everyone can to download and can tine so that they can them feel like they have see what’s happening... be shared amongst build these skills. What some control. Try buying family members that equipment will they a large calendar and Why routines work allow each family need? How should they drawing pictures or Children respond really member to upload get to where they need symbols to show what well to a routine so you’ll individually. This means to go? What will the events are coming up. thank yourself when they that everyone is kept in back-up plan be? Talk it through with your adapt to doing the right the loop. Train your pre- It’s all the stuff of life that child at dinner time or things at the right time teens and teenagers to makes it all go much bedtime so that they can each day. Have break - use it and show them more smoothly . mentally prepare and fast and dinner at set the benefits of keeping ask questions about times, bedtime must be up to date with it. things that they feel absolutely set in stone It’s a good lesson for Sally J Hall is a writer and unsure of. It also means and homework should future organisation when editor who has written for you can count down the have appointed times they have to juggle all the main parenting titles days to exciting events to too. Giving your kids too many more balls! as well as The Independent look forward to. much choice over their Try: and The Mail. At the same time, you own routine just leads to • www.yadahome.com She is author of Eco Baby will be establishing their spending too long • www.cozi.com and contributing author to concepts of time that on games or play and • www.familywall.com Watch My Baby Grow they will be learning not enough for home - • Shared cal on google (Dorling Kindersley). about in their maths work and helping with lessons. household chores.
September 2016 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR 19 20 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR September 2016 September 2016 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR 21 EDUCATION By Robina Cowan
and science, even though these other parents, but don't get pulled 20 things you need weren't their strongest subjects. along by their tide. Do your own to know when choosing 9. Pay attention to what's on the research and develop your own a school... walls - and not just the artwork. views: knowledge is power! 1. Make up your own mind. It's What are children being warned 15. Keep telling yourself (because amazing how many parents never about, or encouraged to do? it's true!) that there is no perfect even look round a school because Are there any school visits being school. Every school has strengths of what they've heard. A school advertised? Which clubs seem to and weaknesses. There's more than that doesn't suit another family be thriving? one school that can be right for could be just right for yours. 10. Look at the school's league your child. 2. Listen to your child's feelings as tables, but don't pin everything on 16. When the time comes to fill in well as your own. Choosing his or them. Read the Ofsted report too the forms, allow yourself lots of time her primary is down to just you and and pay particular attention to and do it extremely carefully. your partner; but your 10 or 11- how the school has done over There may be supplementary forms, year-old deserves a say. time. If it's had a dip, are there signs and there may be complicated 3. Use open days wisely. If you can, of improvement or suggestions that arrangements for giving them in go to a daytime visit (especially to it could turn round? (especially if you're applying to a school that seems a strong 11. Where do pupils go on to from faith schools). If you find it all too contender) because you'll see it in this school? You want to see at confusing, talk to your child's working mode. least some youngsters doing well primary teacher or primary head, or 4. Nothing advertises a school like academically and aiming for good call the education department at its pupils. Do they seem happy? courses at top universities as it your local authority. Are they engaged? If you have shows support for the most 17. Have a plan of action for what time, pass by at going-home time. ambitious. you'll do if you don't get the school Are they well-behaved? 12. Go to the head teacher's talk you're hoping for. Just having that 5. How about the staff - do they and take your notebook. This is an plan will make you feel more seem fulfilled and cheery working important part of the event: not relaxed. there? Take opportunities to chat only do you need to pick up on the 18. Remember that there's a lot of to them. head's attitude and values and movement in the first few weeks 6. Listen to your instincts. If a school what matters most to him or her, after places are allocated, and doesn't feel right, move on. You but you also need to pay special many children get in from waiting don't have to explain yourself or attention to anything that's said lists. your reasons for doing so to any - about the entrance criteria. 19. Don't underestimate how much one else (although you do, of Understanding that is the crucial hard work an appeal can be, or course, need to discuss it with your next stage. how emotionally draining. That's not child if your instincts are different). 13. If you like a school, do your to say don't do it: just be prepared. 7. Don't get bogged down in the homework about whether your 20. Remember that, at the end of detail: what you're aiming to get is child fits its entrance requirements. the day, parents make more a sense of the school. Does it feel However much you love the difference to a child's future than a happy, productive, calm? Is there school, and however much you school does. Even if your child a sense of order and caring? think your child would thrive there, doesn't get into your first choice of These things matter more than the you'll only get a place if you fulfil school (and one in seven didn't last nitty-gritty. the criteria. Read the school's year) your attitude to that could 8. Think about your child's talents entrance policy through very, very be a much bigger factor in what and interests and ponder carefully carefully. If you don't fulfil the happens next for your child than whether they'll be catered for. Then requirements, could you change the school itself. add what the school offers that something so you do? If not, move might be harder to pick up at on: there's no point in wasting a Have confidence, first and home. We're a family of journalists, choice or railing against something foremost, in your child. And trust where literacy is easier for us as you can't change. that, together, you will work things parents; so I'm glad my girls went to 14. You're bound to talk to other out if and when you come up a school that specialised in maths parents, and you want to talk to against problems.
22 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR September 2016 September 2016 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR 23 WHAT’S ON
DIARY DATES MUSEUMS AND 1-30 Sept: GALLERIES TOTALLY THAMES 2016 Celebrate the Thames with a 30-day BRITISH MUSEUM programme of river-inspired art, live WC1B 3DG www.britishmuseum.org performances, archaeology walks, river until 27 Nov SUNKEN CITIES- races, regattas and more all along the EGYPT’S LOST WORLDS famous river. Plenty of family fun activities. Submerged under the sea for over a http://totallythames.org thousand years, two lost cities of ancient Egypt were recently rediscovered. Their 10 Sept: MUM TO MUM story is told for the first time in this block - MARKET NEARLY NEW SALE buster exhibition. in Chiswick at Southfield Primary School, DIGITAL WORKSHOPS Takes place at Southfield Road, Bedford Park W4 1BD. weekends and school holidays on a vari - 1.30-3.30pm. ety of themes. Free, 11am-4pm, for ages http://www.mum2mummarket.co.uk/north- 7+ (unless stated). NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM and-west-london-nearly-new-sales.html Workshops: 22 Sept LITTLE FEET: ANIMAL ART SENSATIONAL BUTTERFLIES 9-11 Sept: Discover the wonderful world of animal SAW & SAND FESTIVAL rock art. Play a game of spot the animal, extraordinary painting of Paris with new enjoy nectar and fruit. Plus see the world’s make your own magnificent masterpiece Featuring huge sand sculptures and electric streetlights and create a glow-in- leading butterfly and moth collection of and dress up as a giraffe. For under 5s. wooden chainsaw carvings, chainsaw the dark masterpiece. more than 10 million species. 10.30am, free. challenge, timbersports athletes, plus lots 18 Sept FAMILY AFFAIR Be inspired by Until 6 Nov COLOUR AND VISION 29 Sept LITTLE FEET: of outdoor fun for all ages in Chiswick Rembrandt’s paintings to make mini clay Find out how early interactions gave rise EXPLORE LOST CITIES Explore the Park. www.chgt.org.uk portraits of your own family members. to the wide variety of colours that we now world of an underwater diver and discover 7, 14, 21, 28 Sept WELCOME see in the natural world. Discover rare 15-19 Sept: an ancient city beneath the waves. Look at WEDNESDAYS Bring paintings to life and unusual specimens that show the objects, listen to sounds, move your body CHISWICK BOOK FESTIVAL through interactive music, storytelling, range of ways in which colour is used in and play games. For under 5s, 10.30am, art and messy play activities. Every nature - from a warning or disguise, to an Talks, workshops, games, drawing free. Wednesday, 10.30 and 11.30am for irresistible invitation. Take a look through and lots of other family activities walkers under age five, 1pm for sitting different animals’ eyes to find out how with Jacqueline Wilson, FOUNDLING MUSEUM babies to walkers. they see colour, and reveal surprises Cressida Cowell, Jonathan Meres, WC1N 1AZ DRAWING SUNDAY Explore gallery hidden from our view. Rob Biddulph and James Nichol and www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk paintings as inspiration for your art. For Every weekend INVESTIGATE FOR other well-known authors in different 24 Sept FOOD ADVENTURES ages 5-11. Sundays 11am and 2pm. FAMILIES Get a feel for how scientists venues all over Chiswick. Join storyteller Dani Bradstreet on a Drop-in. work by having a go yourself. Come and www.chiswickbookfestival.net journey through the Foundling Hospital. 11 Sept CHARGING KNIGHTS AND explore hundreds of real nature specimens Inspired by our exhibition Feeding the REARING HORSES Discover the drama that form the evidence Museum scientists 17, 18 Sept: 400, discover the foods that foundling in Uccello’s Battle of San Romano and use in their daily work. Drop-in, 11am- OPEN HOUSE LONDON children ate in this immersive storytelling create brave knights and galloping horses. 5pm. A chance to look inside London’s most adventure. Sessions at 10.30am, 1 and 1, 4 Sept POND LIFE Drop-in session iconic buildings. Free. 2.30pm for under 5s. Free. NATIONAL PORTRAIT where you can explore the pond life in the www.openhouselondon.org.uk GALLERY Museum's Wildlife Garden. NATIONAL GALLERY WC2H OHE www.npg.org.uk 2 Sept PUPPETS - MAISIE FINDS 25 Sept: WC2N 5DN www.nationalgallery.org.uk 18 Sept DROP-IN FAMILY SESSION: A TOOTH When Maisie finds an odd CHISWICK HOUSE DOG SHOW Every Sun FAMILY SUNDAYS CELEBRATING ROALD DAHL Family looking tooth under her pillow, she's deter - mined to discover who it belongs to. A fun-packed family day. Enter your dog Activities designed for families to enjoy Art Workshop to mark the centenary of Come and find out how a time-travelling in an event for just £3. 11am-4.15pm. and learn together, 11am and 3pm. one of Britain’s best loved children’s tooth fairy takes Maisie back to the Ice www.chiswickhousedogshow.org.uk MAGIC CARPET STORYTELLING writers join us for an afternoon of activi - For children aged 2-5. Sundays 10.30- ties from storytelling to sweet-making. Age on an adventure she'll never forget. 11am and 11.30am-12pm. Fly away on 4, 5 Sept MEET MARY ANNING The Book now: 11 Nov: 1pm for age 3+ and 3pm for age 7+ the magic carpet, coming to land in front greatest fossil hunter ever known - her dis - PAINT POTS FIRST ANNUAL coveries were some of the most of a different painting each day. NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM significant geological finds of all time. PARENTING CONFERENCE 4 Sept FAMILY WALK AND TALK SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk 11.30am and 2pm. Montessori Parenting - Education in an A walk around the gallery, talking about Until 11 Sept: SENSATIONAL 24 Sept DINO SNORES Ever wondered ever changing future with highly acclaimed pictures to make them come alive. BUTTERFLIES Watch butterflies hatch what goes on at the Natural History author and speaker Dr Paul Epstein. STUDIO SUNDAYS are hands-on work - from delicate chrysalises, unfolding their Museum at night? 7 - 11 years. 7pm till Venue: Paint Pots Montessori School shops that start in the Gallery, followed by wings for the first time, look for munching morning, torchlit trails through the The Boltons, St Mary The Boltons Church, a studio session (11am and 2pm). caterpillars hidden in the foliage and at museum, live animal shows and more. SW10 9TB. 10am-3pm. 4 Sept ILLUMINATED ILLUSIONS different life stages and sizes and see For ages 7-11. Call 020 7223 0123 Explore how Pissarro created an butterflies feeding, pausing their flight to
24 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR September 2016 SCIENCE MUSEUM HAMPTON COURT PALACE KEW GARDENS SW7 2DD www.sciencemuseum.org.uk DAYS OUT KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk TW9 3AF www.kew.org 16 Sept SCIENCE NIGHT A special until 2 Oct THE MAGIC GARDEN Until 30 Oct THE HIVE Inspired by overnight event for 7-13 year olds featur - CUTTY SARK A brand new imaginative play garden for scientific research into the health of bees, ing exciting hands-on workshops, science families, inspired by the palace’s past. this 17 metre installation is made from SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark shows, and a sleepover at the museum. Located in King Henry VIII’s former tiltyard thousands of pieces of aluminium and Every weekend: CUTTY SARK discover something new around every provides a unique experience which CHARACTERS Come aboard to hear twist and turn in an immersive world changes constantly as orchestral sounds VICTORIA AND ALBERT Cutty Sark’s incredible stories brought to populated by mythical beasts, including a and LED lights respond to activity within MUSEUM life by characters from the ship’s past. 25m dragon! Besiege the battlements, a real beehive. With a wildflower meadow SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk Suitable for ages 3+ storm the Tiltyard Towers and explore a leading the way to The Hive, it will be a Every Sat POP UP PERFORMANCES Every Weds TODDLER TIME Bring mysterious secret grotto. truly immersive, multi-sensory experience Storytelling, interactive plays and dance. your little sailors along for songs, stories Until 2 Oct GNOMES UNEARTHED and will take visitors on a journey, For all ages at 11am, 1 and 3pm. Free, and playtime on board. 2-4pm for ages 4 Go on a gnome hunt to find Umbriel. exploring the vital role of bees and other drop in. and under. Hampton Court’s gnome has been pollinators in feeding the planet. Every Sun DROP-IN DESIGN Pick up 3, 4 Sept FAMILY FUN WEEKEND: summoned from underground by the a design challenge, hunt for ideas in the TINY TALL SHIPS As part of the Totally Magic Garden’s spell and he now appears galleries, then create your own. Thames Festival, make your own tiny tall ODDS FARM PARK throughout the palace grounds. 10.30am-5pm, for age 5+ ship. 11.30am-1.30pm, 2-4pm HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk FREE ART FUN-BACK-PACKS, 24 Sept THE LANDLUBBERS’ A FABULOUS DAY OUT AT THE ACTIVITY CART AND ANIMAL BAGS MARITIME FOLK FESTIVAL Stomp HOLLAND PARK FARM Meet the farmers and get close to Families can pick up an activity Back-Pack, your feet to sea shanties, hear the salty ECOLOGY CENTRE the animals in the hands-on area and in get creative at Drop-in-Design or go on a yarns of the figureheads, or try your hand W8 6LU www.rbkc.gov.uk/subsites/ the large undercover animal barns. gallery adventure trail. Free, drop-in. at some traditional maritime crafts.10am- wildlife/events.aspx There is a massive adventure play area Suitable for children aged 4 to 11 5pm, all ages. 17 Sept MAMMALS OF HOLLAND with a four lane astra slide, two drop Activity Cart : Fantastic hands-on art PARK Find out more about the mammals slides, a netted area with zig zag chicanes fun for children to create collages and FULHAM PALACE of the park. A chance to explore the and tunnels, swinging ropes and much pictures to take home. woods to discover which mammals have more. Also a special Toddler and Under SW6 6EA www.fulhampalace.org Agent Animal bag: A sensory activity been found in the live traps. 9.30am, 5’s areas. Plus, win a Medal at Sheep every Mon and Tues THE PALACE bag that has been developed especially free but booking is essential. Racing, board Tractor and Trailer Rides, EXPLORERS A weekly parent/carer and for under 5s. Each bag contains an audio explore the sand and water play area. toddler sessions for children aged 2-4. map and fabric cubes. £3 per child, which includes a drink and OSTERLEY PARK AND HOUSE healthy snack. TW7 4RB www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ THE LONDON WETLANDS V&A MUSEUM OF 1, 15, 25 Sept PALACE STORIES osterley-park-and-house/whats-on CENTRE CHILDHOOD History of the palace brought to life in 10, 17, 24 Sept BAT WALK Join the SW13 9WT http://wwt.org.uk E2 9PA www.vam.ac.uk/moc these tales of the characters who lived Rangers on a sunset tour of the park with 10 Sept-16 Oct (Sat and Sun) Until 9 Oct THE CLANGERS, there. 2.30pm. Free, no booking neces - a difference. Learn about the bats at WEEKEND ACTIVITIES Enjoy a pond BAGPUSS & CO. The original puppets sary. Osterley, then embark upon identifying dipping session to see what mini-beasts alongside archive footage, sets and story - 10 Sept LITTLE GREEN FINGERS the sights and sounds of these winged are about and get creative with nature boards, photos, scripts and filming equip - GARDENING SESSION Learn how wonders. 7.45-9.15pm. crafts. ment, all set in a playful recreation of vegetables and flowers grow and have a Booking is essential. 1,8, 15 Sept BAT WALKS See these Oliver and Peter’s film studio. Free. go at seed sowing in the garden beds and amazing flying mammals and their 17 Sept CHINESE FESTIVAL DAY other fun gardening activities. For ages astonishing aerial acrobatics. Age 8+ Celebrate the Chinese Moon Festival with 3+, 10.30am-12noon. £10 traditional and modern instrumental and dance performances and craft activities. 11.30am-4.30pm, free, drop-in, all ages. 25 Sept BAGPUSS MUSIC Sandra Kerr, creator of the evocative music from Bagpuss will sing and play some of the best-loved music from children’s ani - mation classics. Join in, sing and sign along, and pretend to be mice on the mouse-organ. Mouse masks provided. 11am and 2.30pm.
WALLACE COLLECTION W1U 3BN www.wallacecollection.org 4 Sept THE LITTLE DRAW Free drop-in drawing workshop for all ages and abilities with lecturer Luisa RIvera. In her work, Luisa explores our relationship with nature, embracing the natural world and the symbolism inherent in it. In this workshop, Luisa will respond to the botanical imagery in the Collection, creating a collective drawing project in one of the galleries. 1:30 - 4:30pm, all ages.
September 2016 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR 25 WHAT’S ON CONTINUED
LYRIC THEATRE W1D 7ES www.nimaxtheatres.com/ FAMILY THEATRE lyric-theatre www.tallstories.org.uk Until 8 Jan 2017 THE GRUFFALO BECK THEATRE Everyone’s favourite furry monster roars UB3 2UE www.becktheatre.org.uk back into the West End in celebration of 17, 18 Sept PEPPA PIG’S SURPRISE his 15th anniversary on stage. Join Mouse It’s a lovely day and Peppa is playing on a daring adventure through the deep outside with her friends. Mummy Pig and dark wood in search of a nut, meeting the Daddy Pig have got a surprise for her and cunning Fox, the eccentric old Owl and George. Lots of fun, loads of songs and of the party mad Snake on the way. Will the course, surprises in this charming, colour - story of the Gruffalo save Mouse from ful new show for pre-schoolers. ending up as dinner for these wily wood - land creatures? Armed with only a nut CADOGAN HALL map and a little courage, Mouse must SW1X 9DQ www.cadoganhall.com/ outwit them all. After all, there's no such LYRIC HAMMERSMITH event/the-tiger-who-came-to-tea-2016 thing as a Gruffalo - is there? THE GIRL AND THE GIRAFFE until 4 Sept THE TIGER WHO CAME Songs, laughs and scary fun for children TO TEA The doorbell rings just as Sophie aged 3+. and her mummy are sitting down to tea. orchestra play all around you. You can 23, 30 Sept RUG RHYMES FOR THE either sit next to one of the musicians UNDER 5’s A short session of nursery Who could it possibly be? What they PUPPET THEATRE BARGE certainly don’t expect to see at the door is (these ‘passenger seats’ are offered on a rhymes, poems and rhyming stories, and W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com a big, stripy tiger! Packed with oodles of first-come, first-served basis), or just come the opportunity to look at and borrow until 2 Oct BRER RABBIT VISITS magic, sing-along songs and clumsy along to watch the action.12 - 12.30pm. books. Free but booking essential. AFRICA Based on the traditional Brer chaos. 4 Sept CAPE TOWN OPERA CHORUS 24 Sept FAMILY GAMELAN TASTER Rabbit tales, this show was specially BIG SING Songs from South Africa for all SESSION Bring the family to have a go at written for the Puppet Theatre Barge. playing the Javanese gamelan. CAMBRIDGE THEATRE ages. 4pm - 5.45pm Age 3+ 7 Sept PRAM JAM Singing workshop No previous musical experience is neces - WC2H 9HU www.matildathemusical.com for parents and children under 5. sary - just a willingness to sit on the floor, Booking until Dec 16 MATILDA SOUTHBANK CENTRE 10.30am. take off your shoes and have fun. THE MUSICAL The Royal Shakespeare SE1 8PX www.southbankcentre.co.uk 10 Sept LEAPS AND BOUNDS: For ages 6+ Company’s production of Roald Dahl’s 1-4 Sept BEDTIME STORIES Immerse UNLIMITED Jump into a day of exciting 26 Sept DRAGON BABIES Bring your magical story about a girl with yourself in a magical journey with circus and accessible activities for all the family. little ones to shake, rattle and gong. extraordinary powers. for all the family. Tucked up with your Especially designed for disabled children Gamelan for ages 3-5. family and friends in a giant bedroom aged 12 and under and their families. LYRIC HAMMERSMITH installation, take this chance to unwind Enjoy an array of performances and craft - THEATRE ROYAL DRURY LANE W6 0QL www.lyric.co.u and be dazzled by circus, theatre, dance ing and making workshops. 11am - 4pm. WC2B 5JF www.reallyuseful.com/ 10 Sept CHRISTOPHER NIBBLE and projections from innovative circus 11 Sept TALES FROM THE SHED theatres/theatre-royal-drury-lane The guinea pigs of Dandeville love company Upswing. For ages 3-10. A vibrantly informal theatre show Ongoing CHARLIE AND THE munching dandelion leaves so much that 3 Sept PRAM JAM: AFRICA UTOPIA designed for young children. There is no CHOCOLATE FACTORY Roald Dahl's slowly but surely dandelions are UNDER 5’s WORKSHOP A morning edge of the stage - just a single inclusive deliciously dark tale of young Charlie disappearing from all over town. With just of song and dance for little ones. space where everyone joins in a dramatic Bucket and the mysterious confectioner one dandelion left will this plucky little 3 Sept FASHION UNDRESSED dialogue with everyone else. Both Willy Wonka in a brand new musical guinea pig have the flower power to save WORKSHOP ZONE Learn about African performances BSL interpreted and are directed by Sam Mendes. 2.30pm and the day? For ages 2-7. crafting techniques at this drop-in work - relaxed performances. 11am and 2pm. 7.30pm. 17 Sept THE GIRL AND THE GIRAFFE shop. This two-hour, hands-on session For ages 1 - 6. One day whilst Girl is playing in her looks at the traditional and more novel garden, she spots something peculiar on methods used in modern African to create the other side of the fence. Climbing up as fashion items and accessories. high as she can, she is surprised when she 11am - 1pm. comes face to face with... Giraffe! 3 Sept DANCE WORKSHOP Learn new Follow their friendship in this uplifting moves and dance routines at this drop-in show, told from a child's perspective. workshop.2.30pm - 3.15pm. For ages 3-6. Suitable for all ages 24 Sept JACK AND THE BEANS TALK 3, 11, 25 Sept MONSKI MOUSE’S Is it a dream or did I hear a talking bean? BABY DISCO DANCE HALL A retro When Jack swops his cow for some magic fabulous vintage disco for the under 5’s. beans, there is a whispering in the breeze Why toddle when you can dance, dance, and a giant rumble in the sky... dance? Get your disco-dancing-booties on Charming and inventive with an enormous to an eclectic selection of retro hits and beanstalk, bags of gold and a smelly old funky nursery rhymes. giant. For ages 3-7. 4 Sept PASSENGER SEATS WITH CHINEKE! YOUTH ORCHESTRA PUPPET THEATRE BARGE Take a 'passenger seat' right in the middle BRER RABBIT VISITS AFRICA of the action, seeing and hearing the
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