Issue 109: September 2016 www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk FREE
North West London
Including North Middlesex, South Hertfordshire, North Hillingdon, Brent, Harrow and South Barnet (Queens Park, Wembley, Edgware, Stanmore, Northolt, Northwood, Watford and all the areas in between)
LOCAL CLUBS, CLASSES and ACTIVITIES Feature Issue PLUS Back-to-School and Open Days
PLUS What’s On and much more inside! New Term, New Goals, New Successes
2 North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 WATFORD BUSHEY RICKMANSWORTH M1 STANMORE M25 HATCH END NORTHWOOD EDGWARE HARROW WEALD HAREFIELD PINNER KINGSBURY HARROW WEST RUISLIP HENDON WEMBLEY ICKENHAM DOLLIS HILL SUDBURY PARK NORTHOLT BRONDESBURY PARK WEMBLEY UXBRIDGE A40 QUEENS PARK WILLESDEN KILBURN
Welcome to the IN THIS ISSUE:
September issue! 4 News 7 Education 10 Open Days CONTACT US: www.facebook.com/ FamiliesNWLondon 16 Clubs and Classes Families North West 26 What’s New London Magazine @FamiliesNW 27 Mummy on the Edge Circulation 30,000+ copies every issue. 28 What’s On Editors: Published seven times a year. For families Heather Waddington from birth to twelve. and Janine Mergler P.O. Box 2378, Watford WD18 1RF UPCOMING ISSUES: T: 01923 237 004 October 2016 Education and Schools Deadline: 10th September 2016 E: [email protected] Cover image: Nov/Dec 2016 Seasonal Celebrations Deadline: Depositphotos.com 10th October 2016 www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk Send in your news, stories and advertising bookings to the details left. Feature images used under license from depositphotos.com. Other images have been supplied by independent sources. Where is Families North West London?
Families North West London Magazine is distributed bi-monthly throughout north west London. An area bordered by the A40 to the south, by the A5/M1 to the east and out towards the M25 in the north and west. You can collect a copy FREE from scores of outlets: schools, nurseries, play groups, clubs and classes, sports centres, children’s libraries, family doctors and baby clinics, theatres, your local council offices and children’s shops. If you would like to stock copies to give to parents, please let us know. Distributed to over 30,000 families!
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North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 3 NEWS
It’s a Small World! 29 students aged 6 - 17 years old from Stanmore have been lucky enough to experience a trip to Disneyland Paris! Not only did they enjoy all the theme park has to offer but also participated in three performance opportunities. The students ‘Danced the Dream’ from the iconic castle down Main Street and around the band stand amongst 500 students from Stagecoach schools around the country to open for the Main Parade. ‘It was an overwhelming sight to see a sea of orange T-shirts dancing in perfect unison down Main Street’ said very proud Principal Jayne Hardy. They were also treated to a workshop of two songs from ‘Frozen’ by a Disney Performing Arts director which they then went on to perform in front of the castle. Finally, they performed a piece at the 1,500 seater Cinemagique Theatre in the Walt Disney Studios lot. The parents were extremely proud to see their children perform on such a prestigious International stage. Our favourite comment was ‘as good as a West End Show’. Appreciation was shared by parents and attendees to their Stagecoach Principal, ‘Big thanks to Jayne for organising this awesome trip. Big 3 days in the park, just had a glance at my health app, 20k steps on average! Would definitely do it all over again!’ www.stagecoach.co.uk 5 weeks FREE with Local Dance Reading Eggs Company Reading Eggs provides a enters its 15th comprehensive range of online reading lessons and e-books successful year! that teach children aged 3-13 the literacy skills needed for a lifetime Students of The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance of reading success. Join more than 3.4 million users worldwide and claim your special 5 WEEKS FREE From left to right: Sasha Leigh, Megan Hondius and ACCESS today! Why try Reading Eggs? Stella Casson Dumont • Suitable for children aged 3-13. • Over 91% of parents report a noticeable improvement in their child’s reading within weeks. The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance, led by Suzanne Van Niekerk, • The programme makes learning phonics, sight words and has been established in the Stanmore area for 15 years with many essential reading skills fun. • Your child can progress through the successes – as well as outstanding Royal Academy of Dance one-on-one lessons at their own pace. • You can track their learning examination results, recent achievements include acceptance into with detailed progress reports and assessments. courses at Central School of Ballet, The Royal Ballet School, Ballet Take advantage of our special no-obligation 5 WEEKS FREE West, The Place, Trinity Laban, Young Dancers Academy, London ACCESS today and see how your child’s reading can improve with Junior Ballet and English National Ballet Youth Company. Reading Eggs. Simply register your child at www.readingeggs. Students have recently been invited to participate in a co.uk/learn9 promotional video for the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD). *Free trial only available to new customers who sign up at the above address. For further information please contact Suzanne by email: suzanne. Free trial offer ends 30th September 2016. Not applicable for schools. [email protected] or on 020 8950 2457
Expand your Vocabulary with Families and Farquhar’s Vocabulary Flash Cards: Apathetic [adj] – having no enthusiasm or interest. Ardent [adj] – extremely keen or passionate. Synonyms: uninterested; indifferent, lethargic, listless, Synonyms; passionate; avid, dedicated, fervent, lukewarm, unenthusiastic, unmotivated. impassioned, vehement, zealous For more information visit www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk
4 North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 NEWS
New local computer coding club for kids! DiscoG Coding Boot Camp is a new initiative that teaches children and adults of all ages to code. Using the Raspberry Pi 3 - a credit card sized computer - and with an emphasis on the Python Programming Language, students can develop an understanding of computer coding and design in a fun environment. In one-to-one sessions, each student is encouraged to learn at their own pace, whilst students taught in small groups of a similar New faces monkeying age are able to collaborate, share thoughts and provide around at Monkey Music! support, utilising their Local Harrow resident, Claire Taylor has taken ownership of individual strengths. the thriving Monkey Music franchise of Uxbridge, Harrow & Founder Gerard Papet has Edgware. Having carved a successful 13-year career as Director developed a structured at the UK’s top media agency, Claire was looking for something yet flexible approach to learning in a relaxed and supportive more flexible to fit in with her family life, following the birth of environment that encourages self-direction and innovative her second child. Monkey Music, like their age-specific classes, thinking. This hands-on, tutor-led approach to learning guides was a perfect fit. “I knew the benefits and enjoyment that students to deepen their understanding of key topics in attending Monkey Music brings to young children and their technology such as writing codes to control electronic circuits, carers, having taken my son since he was 3 months old. So when creating fun and engaging gadgets that spring to life with lights the opportunity arose to own the franchise, I knew it was the and sensors, and using Python Turtle to draw digital art. right step for me. So much research exists proving how early Papet suggest “We are living in a world dominated by technology, exposure to music helps not only creativity but language, social understanding hardware and software is now as important and physical development. I am excited to be able to help mums, as reading and writing and is essential to surviving in the 21st dads, grandparents and carers see their child grow and develop in Century!” such a fun and stimulating environment.” www.discog.co.uk www.monkeymusic.co.uk
North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 5 NEWS Greek and Cypriot culture and language celebrated in Kingsbury Since 1974, Kingsbury Greek School Jigsaw Arts has aimed to teach children and adults the Greek language and Finalists at this year’s culture in a friendly and welcoming Lloyds Bank National environment - welcoming both Business Awards, is offering complete beginners and more experienced learners from all 2 week FREE trials ethnicities. The nursery class accepts Jigsaw has offered weekend performing children from 3 years and there are arts classes to children aged 3-18 across also dedicated adult classes and London and the Home Counties for over a GCSE class. The staff is comprised of experienced and qualified 20 years but 2016 in particular has been an exciting year for the teachers are recruited locally and their Head Teacher, along with the company, seeing them shortlisted for The Business Award for Arts other teachers, set the curriculum recommended by the Ministry of and Creative Services in the 2016 Lloyds Bank National Business Education in Cyprus and Greece. The school also provides lessons Awards. To support those children wanting to try performing arts in traditional Greek and Cypriot Dancing for the children who often classes for the first time this September, Jigsaw offer a two week trial, represent the school in many local and Greek community events. giving the student the opportunity to try Jigsaw and find out if the Kingsbury Greek School is run by a group of friendly committee classes are what they are looking for – providing peace of mind for volunteers whose main role is to organise and run Social and parents, and participants alike! Fundraising events to which we always welcome the community. These include a Christmas Bazaar and an annual Dinner and Dance Visit www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk for more information, or call 0208 with live music. Kingsbury Greek School operates every Saturday 4474530 and book a two week trial today. during term time from 10am until 1pm at Kingsbury High School, NW9 9JR. Just keep swimming, just For further information on the above and enrolments please visit keep swimming… www.kingsburygreekschool.org.uk or phone 07908821185. Get the new school year off to a swimmingly good start with Everyone Save the date… Active’s award-winning swim activities. Pencil Friday 31st March 2017 in your Comprehensive Learn to Swim diary in big, bold writing because Wear programme includes a wide range of A Hat Day is back for the eighth time activities to help your child start and and it will be EVEN HATTIER than last maintain their aquatic journey. The year. Brain tumours kill more children sessions include rookie lifeguarding, and adults under the age of 40 than any diving, water polo and even synchronised other cancer… yet just 1% of the national swimming. Lessons run for 50 weeks a spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease. year, six days a week and are available Brain Tumour Research is the only national UK charity that funds to children over the age of four months. sustainable research into finding a cure. For further information on our swim activities and to find your nearest leisure centre, visit www.everyoneactive.com. Wear A Hat Day is the premier brain tumour awareness event, and is a great way to show your support and raise money brain tumour research during a day of hat-filled fun and games. Buy a hat, make a hat, take a Local, personalised learning support for children photo and share it online #HATTASTIC Register now and start planning Explore Learning is proud of their passion to help students achieve your event. We’ll send you an exclusive pack of fundraising goodies their potential and be the best they can be. They pride themselves – including leaflets, posters, balloons and any other merchandise you on getting to know each child as an individual and help them to fall ordered at time of registering – in plenty of time for your Wear A Hat in love with learning, with a goal to build confident, fearless learners Day. Stuck for ideas? Our Hatter’s Workshop online at www.wearahatday. who are hungry for knowledge. Having delivered award-winning org is brim-ming with inspiration: event ideas, quizzes, additional poster maths and English tuition to over 175,000 children across the UK, their designs and much more! Top 10 event ideas and fundraising tips are award-winning approach has a proven record of supporting children also available on our website. So get those thinking caps on, and start both academically and attitudinally. counting down to 31st March. Together we will find a cure. www.explorelearning.co.uk www.wearahatday.org
Tell them you saw it in Magazine!
6 North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 Education
3 months to 5 years For Children aged 2 to 5 years old
Open Mornings Open Mornings 13th September 16th September and 7th October and 7th October
• Open 8am-6pm 51 weeks a year • A wonderful setting for children • From 3 months to 5 years to learn and grow • Modern, and well equipped • High standard of qualified and caring staff • Fully safe and secure building • Family atmosphere • Large outdoor area • Safe secure and stimulating environment • Extra-curricular activities offered like • Large Outdoor area French, Music and Movement and ICT • Dedicated baby room Open 51 weeks a year, offering and outdoor space part time and full time sessions
Buxlow Preparatory School, St Nicholas Nursery, Kingsbury NW9 8PN 5/6 Castleton Gardens East Lane, Wembley, HA9 7QJ Tel: 0208 904 3615 Tel: 0208 205 9744 Email: [email protected] www.stnicholasnursery.org.uk www.buxlownursery.org.uk
Open 51 weeks a year Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm
• Excellent outdoor facilities • Open plan room • Dedicated staff team offering range of activities • Healthy meal options • Excellent transport links close by – Wembley park station at walking distance
St. Christopher’s School 71 Wembley Park Drive, Wembley HA9 8HE tel: 020 8902 5069 email:[email protected] www.stchristophersnursery.org.uk
North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 7 Education
Home
By Liat Hughes Joshi Time
By Anne Lane, Lane Psychology
eptember and the return to school been?’ Then there’s the homework and So now that the autumn is setting in can be a challenging time for there’s getting ready for school tomorrow. here are some ways in which you might families. The days get shorter and Then there’s bed and school again”. There want to bring some space for rest and Sthe evenings get darker. Weekday wasn’t much my friend could say. recuperation into your home after school evenings seem to rush by. Work and school The chance to unwind, a space and and work: take over and time for the family to unwind time at home which is slower and more The beginning of and slow down can be vanishingly hard to emotionally supportive are the very achieve. thing that helps children cope with their home time: I remember my friend’s son complaining: busy daily world. We have rituals around Whether you meet your children at the “Everything’s school. I get woken up; it’s important events in our lives (the nightly school gate or later on in the evening make time for school. As I’m eating my breakfast event of getting children to bed being the sure you welcome them into your arms. you say ‘We’re late for school’. We go to one that most parents focus on) but there Take time to reconnect with one another. school and I’m at school. We come home are not so many rituals for the transition This might mean being affectionate and from school and you say ‘How’s school from school and work to home and rest. physically present for them; kissing their
8 North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 Education
heads, crouching down to them if they’re younger. However equally it can just mean letting them know they have your complete attention and you’re relieved and “The chance to unwind, glad to see them. Have a getting a space and time at home home ritual: As soon as you get home take off coats, which is slower and more school clothes, shoes and unpack bags. If you haven’t had a chance until now, then find a place such as the kitchen table or emotionally supportive sofa and have an unwinding chat. When you have more than one child explain to your children that everyone needs a turn, are the very thing that then concentrate on one person at a time. So Mondays might be the little one’s turn to talk about his day for five or ten minutes helps children cope with before the others. On Tuesday it’s the oldest first and so on. To help put the day to rest create a feeling their busy daily world.” of comfort and slowness. In our old house there was an open fire. As soon as the clocks moved back we would light it in the evenings. The smell of smoke and crackling that getting it done efficiently means they have more time to play can be very *For a review of the many ways in which routines logs settled us into a quiet family time. If are important to children’s social, emotional motivating for children. Research on you don’t have a fire then turn the main and cognitive development see research paper lights off and put on the side lights. Close attention and concentration in primary by Spagnola, M and Fiese, B.H. (2007) Family curtains, get soft rugs, cushions. If you school children indicates that the best time routines and rituals: A context for development to do homework is shortly after children in the lives of young children. Infants and Young normally have the television on put on Children, 20 (4), 284-299. some music for a while instead. have got home, when they have had a break from school but are still in a learning Families differ in terms of the demands and Keep homework in its place. Aim to get it activities they are engaged in. For more on this mindset. Let them have a snack at the done at the same time each night and try I have found the book ‘Calmer, Easier, Happier kitchen table then settle down to do it. Homework: The Revolutionary Programme That to limit the amount of time it takes. Having When children are younger setting a timer Transforms Homework’ by Noel Janice-Norton a a routine means that children settle to it really helps them to focus. very helpful resource. more quickly. A growing understanding
North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 9 Independent School Open Days
Please check school websites to confirm in advance of visiting advertised open days. Listings are subject to change. Open Day: Sat 15 Oct, 10am-12.30pm. Wed 19 Oct, 9.30- Aldenham School Elstree WD6 Boys and Girls 3-18 yrs (Boarding/ 11.30am Prep School 01923 851664. Senior School 01923 Day) [email protected] 858122 Alpha Preparatory School Harrow HA1 Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs. Open Day: By appointment 0208 427 1471 www.alpha.harrow.sch.uk Bales College Kensal Town W10 Boys and Girls 11+ Open Day: By appointment 020 8960 5899 www.balescollege.co.uk to register Buxlow Preparatory and Nursery School Wembley HA9 7QJ Open Morning: By appointment. 020 89043615 Boys and Girls 0 - 11yrs (Day) www.buxlowschool.org.uk Buckingham College Preparatory School Pinner HA5 Boys School Open Day: Wed 12 Oct. 020 8866 2737. 4-11 years www.buckprep.org Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School Elstree WD6 Open Day: By appointment. 020 8266 1700 Boys 5-18 yrs. www.habsboys.org.uk Open Day: Jun Sch - Tue 27 Sep; Fri 30 Sep – both 9.15-11am. Haberdashers’ Aske’s Girls’ School Elstree WD6 Sat 8 Oct 10am-12.30pm. Sen Sch – Thu 29 Sep; Thu 6 Oct Girls 4-18 yrs. www.habsgirls.org.uk – both 9.30-11am. Sat 8 Oct 2-5pm. 020 8266 2302 email [email protected] High Elms Manor School Watford WD25, Boys and Girls 6 months – Open Day: Tue 27 Sep – 9.15 & 10.15am. 01923 681103 11 years. www.highelmsmanorschool.com
The John Lyon School Harrow on the Hill HA2. Boys 11-18 yrs. Open Day: Sat 1 Oct – 10am-1pm. 020 8515 9400 www.johnlyon.org
Krishna Avanti Primary School Edgware HA8. Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs. Open Day: By appointment. 020 8381 3344 www.avanti.org.uk/kapsharrow Mariposa Primary School (opening Sept 2017) Harrow HA8 Boys and Open Day: By appointment. Girls 4-11 yrs www.mariposaprimaryschool.org.uk [email protected] Open Day: Sat 24 Sep, 10.30am-12.30pm (Rickmansworth Merchant Taylor’s Prep Rickmansworth WD3 Boys 4-13. Northwood Campus) Fri 7 Oct, 9.45am-12pm (Yr1-8);13&14 Oct,9.30- HA6 Boys 11-18yrs www.mtpn.org.uk www.mtsn.org.uk 11am (nursery & rcptn) (Northwood Campus) 01923 825648 ( R i c k m a n s w o r t h ) 0 1 9 2 3 8 4 5 5 1 4 ( N o r t h w o o d ) North London Collegiate School Edgeware HA8 Girls 4-18yrs. Open Day: Sat 24 Sep, 10am-12.30pm. Jun Sch 020 8952 1276, www.nlcs.org.uk Sen Sch 020 8951 6481/6468. Northwood College Northwood HA6. Girls 3-18 yrs. Open Day: Sat 1 Oct, 9.30am-1pm. Wed 16 Nov, 9.30-11am www.northwoodcollege.co.uk 01923 825446. Orley Farm Harrow-on-the-Hill HA1 Boys and Girls 4-13yr Open Day: Sat 8 Oct 10am-12pm. 020 8869 7634/7600 www.orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk Quainton Hall School Harrow, HA1. Boys 2.5-13yrs, Girls 2.5-11 yrs. Open Day: Sat 17 Sep 2016, 10am-12:30pm. admin@ www.quaintonhall.org.uk quaintonhall.org.uk 020 8861 8861 Reddiford School Pinner HA5 Boys and Girls 2yrs 9months – 11 yrs. Open Day: By appointment. 020 8866 0660 www.reddiford.org.uk
Roxeth Mead School HA2 Boys & Girls 3-7yrs. www.roxethmead.com Open Day: By appointment. 020 8422 2092
The Royal Masonic School for Girls Rickmansworth WD3 – Ruspini House Pre School (boys and girls aged 2-4) Cadogan House Pre-Prep Open Day: Sun 9 Oct, 2-5pm. 01923 725354 and Prep Department (girls aged 4-11), Senior School (girls aged 11-18) Saint Jérôme CofE Bilingual School Harrow HA1 Boys and Girls 4-11 Open Day: Wed 5 Oct; Wed 9 Nov; Wed 7 Dec, all 9.30- yrs www.stjeromebilingual.org 10.30am. 020 7932 1178 Stanborough School Watford WD25 Boys and Girls 4-18yrs. Open Day: By appointment 01923 673268 Boarding/Day. www.spsch.org St Christopher’s School, Wembley HA9 8HE Boys & Girls 4 – 11 years Open Day: By appointment. 020 8902 5069 (day) [email protected] St John’s CofE Primary School (opening Sept 2016) Watford WD17 Open Day: By appointment. 01923 255 017 Boys and Girls 4-11 yrs www.stjohnswatford.co.uk Open Day: Thu 22 Sep, 5.30-7.30pm (Sen Sch); Sat 24 Sep, St Helen’s School Northwood HA6. Girls, 3-18 yrs. www.sthn.co.uk 9.30-11.30am (Rcptn & Jun Sch) Wed 2 & Tue 3 Nov, 9.30am- 12pm (whole sch) 01923 843230 St Hilda’s Preparatory School for Girls Bushey WD23 3-11yrs. Open Day: Sat 8 Oct. 0208 950 1751 www.sthildasbushey.co.uk St John’s School Northwood HA6 Boys aged 3-13. Open Day: Tue 11 Oct, 9.15am. 020 8866 0067 www.st-johns.org.uk St. Margaret’s School Bushey WD23 Girls 4-18 yrs Open Day: Sat 24 Sep, Thu 3 Nov, both 9.15am-12.30pm (boarding/day) www.stmargaretsbushey.org.uk 020 8901 0872 St. Martin’s School Northwood HA6. Boys 3-13 yrs Open Day: Fri 30 Sep & Sat 1 Oct, 10am-12pm. 01923 825 740 www.stmartins.org.uk St Nicholas Prep School and Nursery, Kingsbury NW9 8PN 3mths – 11 Open Day: By appointment. 020 8205 7153 yrs. www.stnicholasschool.org.uk; www.stnicholasnursery.org.uk York House Rickmansworth WD3. Boys and Girls 3-13 yrs Open Day: Sat 1 Oct; all 9.30am-12pm. 01923 772 395 www.york-house.com
10 North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 Education
North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 11 Education
What I learned about Independent School Entrance Assessments By Sonya Thiru of The Rainbow Club
any parents of today (including myself!) are striving to get our respective children into the independent school “ I found that most Mof our choice with a hope it may unlock the potential and dreams of our children. Unbeknownst to many of parents do not share us, is the growing difficulties associated with this…the dreaded assessments! How dare they scrutinize my child! This is often their own personal a thought of a parent who receives the anti-climatic small envelope which tries to let so many down softly, “We wish your experiences of the child the best in their future endeavors, but unfortunately we can not at this time offer a place to your child.” entrance assessments, Many independent prep schools are no longer only highly competitive at the leaving many unaware of 11+ age assessment, but now also at the 3+/4+/5+ assessments. Often parents think this may be the ‘easy’ entry point into what to expect. ” these schools, but the competition can be fierce with some schools stating that only 1 out of every 8 applicants is offered Get Painting in the garden. a place. 5 Ideas to help get Encourage them to paint an object Most parents are aware that for the 11+ assessment ready! they can see. Watercolours are assessment, there is a lot of preparation 4child friendly, and more forgiving. involved. What many of you may not be Why not take a trip to the coast/city/ aware of is that the same can apply for Read, read and read some more! Read countryside and paint away! Take note the 3+/4+/5+ assessments. Yes, even at as much as you can together, visit the together of the differences between them that age and in my recent experience of library and take advantage or reading all. preparing my own child for this process I 1out-loud what you see around you Make your own journal together. found many parents were for some reason, every day. Take lots of pics of all the special very secretive about the processes they For those rainy days why not try memories you’ share, and stick them were undertaking to prepare their younger playing board games together. 5in alongside brochures/ flowers/ children. I found that most parents do This is a great way to get them to anything you like! not share their own personal experiences learn whilst having fun! Try Snakes For more information and advice on the of the entrance assessments, leaving 2 and ladders, Orchard Toys have a great assessment process for Independent many unaware of what to expect. Having selection, memory games, guess who, and Schools, or if you would like to share come out the other side of this process, I rhyming games. your own personal story with me please found myself wanting to help and support do contact me. For those who have an parents who find themselves in similar Trips to the Zoo/Farm/Park assessment coming up this year or next, I circumstances. are a must. Get the kids riding wish you every success! There are many ways you as a parent their bikes (without the training can ‘prepare’ your children for the 3wheels!), talking about the sea Sonya Thiru is the founder of The assessments. It just takes time, lions, and petting a guinea pig. Talk about the experience afterwards, developing Rainbow Club, providing assessment patience and practice! Why not try a vocabulary organizing their thoughts. support and advice for local parents. few yourself! [email protected] / 077850045471
12 North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 Education
North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 13 Education
Back-to-School: Headlice How to cope with those nasty nits!
t’s every parent’s nightmare; the realise they have headlice who will keep pregnant and breastfeeding women. notices go up at school: “a case of spreading it through the class, so even if headlice has been reported, so please your child displays no symptoms, always Can I prevent them? check your children’s heads”. Your check regularly. Whilst there is some evidence that they child begins to scratch. How do you I dislike tea tree oil and lavender, you can’t cope with headlice – and can they be How to check really prevent an infestation. Sorry. prevented? Your best friend is now your nit comb. When you wash your child’s hair, apply What are headlice? plenty of conditioner and comb through Headlice facts: Headlice, also known as nits, are tiny their hair in sections, making sure you insects that live in human hair and feed on don’t miss any areas. Look at the comb • They can live under water for blood. They are very small – they range and check for small dots – they may be several hours from the size of a pinhead to a sesame black, reddish brown, brown or grey. These • They are passed from head seed, so it’s no surprise that they are are the lice. These should be removed to head when children sit and difficult to see. Their discarded egg cases under a hot tap in the basin or into a play together are white and look a bit like dandruff stuck cup of hot water. Combing is your most to the hair. It’s often these empty cases, important weapon against headlice, as • They are not a sign of being dirty the ‘nits’, that you notice first, especially even if you use a lotion or spray from the – they prefer clean hair behind the ears and there may also be pharmacists, eggs may still hatch after you • They do not only affect children, small, red, itchy bumps on the back of have treated the hair. so always check your own the neck, which is where the insects have hair too bitten your child. How to treat the hair • They can’t jump A pharmacist can sell you an over-the- Are they obvious? counter remedy which you use in the hair. One of the main problems with headlice You have to treat all family members and By Sally J. Hall is that they are tiny, so they’re difficult most products will tell you to treat again to spot and although most children will after a couple of weeks to take care of any Sally is a writer and editor who has written have telltale signs such as itching and the eggs that slip through the net; lice have for all the main parenting titles as well as feeling of something moving in their hair, a 30-day life span, during which a female The Independent and The Mail. other children may have no idea at all. It’s can lay five to 10 eggs a day. Some lotions She is author of Eco Baby and often these children whose parents don’t are not suitable for the under-twos or for contributing author to Watch My Baby Grow (Dorling Kindersley).
ROXETH MEAD SCHOOL ESTABLISHED 1859 Independent school for boys and girls between 3 years and 7+
◆◆ Small classes ◆◆ Dedicated staff ◆◆ Excellent academic record ◆◆ Caring and supportive atmosphere ◆◆ Happy, considerate and confident children Vacancies sometimes available for 5 and 6 year olds. Contact the Headteacher Tel: 020 8422 2092 E-mail: [email protected] www.roxethmead.com Buckholt House, 25 Middle Road, Harrow HA2 0HW
14 North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 Education
Email: [email protected]
North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 15 Local Clubs and Classes
The benefits of after school clubs and classes
Whether or not you think you may be raising the next Picasso or David Beckham, there’s no doubting the pluses of after school clubs.
hile finances may not discovering the art of practice, patience permit your little ones and persistence. CLASSES FOR GROWN-UPS being involved in different The list is endless. There are clubs for Adult Art Classes in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, painting and mixed activities every night of the almost anything you can imagine. media art classes for adults. Weekday morning studio sessions in a Wweek, there’s no doubt that a couple of relaxed, supportive environment. 020 8954 2897 or well-chosen clubs can be great for giving 07500 006 099 [email protected] your child an insight into areas that the school curriculum doesn’t cover. The following 10 Capital Connection Chorus - female A capella harmony (HA4) Calling women who love to sing! Particularly need lower range pages are packed voices at present. Perfect way to meet new friends and sing with a So, why are clubs great group of women. Every Wednesday night 7.45pm to 10.30pm so important? at Ruislip Community Centre. www.capitalconnection.org.uk with suggestions Eggless Cake Delights (HA) offer eggless baking, cake decorating Team sports like football, rugby, and and dessert classes for kids & adults in Harrow. Classes are held netball are not only brilliant for keeping for some of the in small groups in hands on and Demo format, during weekdays, kids active but also helping them learn weekends and during term holidays in a friendly environment. team work where they can begin to best local providers 07737847405 or [email protected]. appreciate what’s good for the whole www.egglesscakedelights.com team, rather than just thinking of of skill-building The Veggie Kitchen (HA7) Pure vegetarian cookery courses in themselves. Stanmore. Specialising in Indian cuisines, as well as Thai, Chinese Competitive sports are also great for and many more, students learn to cook nutritious and delicious learning difficult life lessons like being a fun for young and vegetarian meals in a friendly and homely environment. Group gracious winner - and loser. Meanwhile, and one-to-one hands on courses. 0208 204 1906 learning a musical instrument is ideal for old alike! www.veggiekitchen.co.uk
Visit Families Harrow online: www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk/local/Harrow
Paediatric First Aid Courses Sat 24 Sept - Harrow on the Hill Suitable for Ofsted Registration. Includes some home study. Certificate valid for 3 years Cost = £85 Contact Margaret at [email protected] or on 07814 191 395 for bookings Other dates available
16 North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 Local Clubs and Classes
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. 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 Yogabellies Aquabellies (various) Beautiful water based yoga School for Girls, Hampstead (NW11). Multi-sensory sessions with arts Building is brilliantly fun! 07721 623 171 info@beatbuilding. classes for women throughout their lives. The sessions incorporate & crafts and music & movement also take place in St Mark’s Church co.uk www.beatbuilding.co.uk https://www.facebook.com/ traditional yoga asanas (postures) adapted for water, water Hall, St John’s Wood/Maida Vale (NW8) on Thursdays, Fridays and beatbuilding relaxations and positive life building experiences for women, Saturdays. 020 7385 5565 [email protected] Little Notes (HA1&HA6) Music Teachers’ Awards for Excellence Finalist mothers and mothers to be. www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk 2016. Pre-school music classes run exclusively by professional There are AquaBellies - Aquanatal yoga for pregnancy, AquaMamas, Gujarati Masti Maja classes by Sansaar (HA5) Fun and interactive musicians. Sarah is a classically-trained singer and leads classes post natal and AquaBelles aqua yoga classes suitable for all women. with voice, piano, flute and guitar. She creates an interactive NEW YogaBelles: yoga designed for a unique women’s body. Gujarati music, song and dance classes for 3 to 6 year olds in North London, to help your child speak Gujarati confidently. Saturday musical space where children and adults can be guided as they 07840 904887 explore sounds, shapes, rhythms and rhymes together. Love music, [email protected] www.yogabellies.co.uk/members/anjli morning at 9am and 10am at St Lawrence Church in Eastcote, Pinner. www.sansaar.org right from the start! Classes for children from 0 to 5 years in Harrow & Northwood. Please see website for more details. 020 8426 4114 Portuguese for Children (NW6) Every Saturday, from 10am to 12pm, First Aid [email protected] www.littlenotes.co.uk the International Gospel Church on Belsize Road will be open for MCS Training (HA1, HA5) Paediatric First Aid Course. Accepted for full children from 4 to 12 years of Brazilian-English parents to enrol. Mini Maniacs (Various) Multi award nominated classes that are filled and voluntary Ofsted Registration. Certificate valid for 3 yrs. Lessons will include how to read and write and Brazilian culture, with music, dance and exploration – plus plenty of excitement. Margaret 07814 191 395 [email protected] including music. Lessons run from September and February 2016 and Focusing on a range of engaging activities, the classes take you are free. [email protected] up tempo then down tempo, leaving parent and child feeling like they’ve been on a tummy tickling roller coaster! LANGUAGES AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT Sign Language Contact [email protected] or visit www.mini-maniacs.com Baby Lab (WC1E) Have fun for free with your baby making Sing and Sign (Various) Fun classes combining the benefits of baby discoveries about brain development at the Centre for Brain & signing with music to develop language, memory and attention Monkey Music (Various) Award-winning Monkey Music introduces Cognitive Development. Birkbeck College, Malet St, London. Travel skills. Babies 6-30 months. Bushey, Rickmansworth, Stanmore and babies and young children to music in a way they understand and expenses refunded. 020 7631 6258 www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk Harrow. www.singandsign.com enjoy - and is brilliant fun for children and adults too! The unique four-stage curriculum ensures that classes are a “good fit” for pre- Club Petit Pierrot (NW3/8/11) Have a new fun French Parent & schoolers. Voted as “Best National Toddler Development Activity” Toddler group for 2-4 year olds opening in Hampstead at the JW3 and “Best National Pre-school Development Activity.” Age guides Centre (NW3). It will take place on Mondays from 10.30am-11.15am ACTIVITY CENTRES are as follows: Rock’n’Roll from 3m, Heigh Ho from 1yr, Jiggety Jig and will be a multi-sensory session, totally in French, with many Aspire National Training Centre, Kidz Zone activities (HA7) Wide from 2rs, Ding Dong 3- 5yrs. Classes are open 6 days a week, at fun and varied activities including songs, rhymes, music, arts & range of activities available from 6mths to 12yrs. 020 8954 5759 venues in Hillingdon, Eastcote, Northwood and Harrow. crafts, dances and movement, language games, and puppets…all [email protected]. Wood Lane, Stanmore, HA7 4AP 020 8427 6595 www.monkeymusic.com great fun! There will also be new fun French after-school classes Gambado Watford (WD25) Giant play-frame, dodgems, climbing on Wednesdays for 4 to 6 yr olds and 6 to 8 yr olds in St Anthony’s wall, and parties. 01923 892140 www.gambado.com continued on page 18 v
Visit Families Brent online: www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk/local/Brent
North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 17 Local Clubs and Classes
[email protected]. Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford 0208 123 9346 [email protected] or Harrow (HA3) Bushey and North Wembley 0208 422 0676 [email protected] www.littlekickers.co.uk
Modern Combat Martial Arts (MCMA) offer a wide range of classes suited to all levels, ages and abilities. Their Combative MCMA curriculum has been designed for the purpose of Street Self Defence. Everyone Active (various) Swimming lessons, sports clubs and Why Join MCMA? SPORTS AND EXERCISE activities for all ages. See our ad on page 19 for more details. • They offer their SAFE Kids classes from 4 years old Capoeira Academy UK (HA) Classes in Stanmore providing www.everyoneactive.com • Junior & Teen classes outstanding and fun classes for children aged 4+years. A unique Field End Flyers Saturday Morning Community Cycle Club (HA5) • Annual Grading Examinations & Structured Belt System blend of martial arts, dance, acrobatics and music; capoeira develops Every Saturday in Term Time at Field End Road for all children aged • Mixed Adult classes skills for life with inspiring and nurturing teachers. 07841342874 5 – 11 years. Join the friendly team of British Cycling Coaches at • Women Only Kick Boxing [email protected] www.capoeiracademyuk.com 9.45am, and learn fun skills, race on the amazing fully enclosed Cycle Are you looking for something that can challenge you or your Enjoy-a-Ball classes (Various) Sports coaching for 3-9 yr olds in a Track, make new friends (for both children and parents) and enjoy child mentally & physically, and teach a life skill that is so fun, positive and non-competitive environment. Ten ball sports for a whole morning of fun till 12.30 - (refreshment break half way valuable in today’s society? the perfect introduction to sport. Physi-ball classes - Ball skills and through). All you need is your own bike, helmet, gloves and water bottle and a shower proof jacket. Then look no further and contact them today to book your core skills for toddlers aged 18mths to 3 yrs. Classes run in Mill HIll, FREE TRIAL LESSON For further info contact Tracey at [email protected] Finchley, Golders Green and Muswell Hill. Call 08452 26 26 94 to book Locations: Hatch End, Harrow, Northolt, Bushey a trial session. Enjoy-a-Ball parties are for super-active 3 - 9 year Little Kickers (Various) Enabling children aged 18mths up to their 7th www.moderncombatmartialarts.com olds. They are full of high energy games loved by boys and girls birthday to develop their coordination, balance and agility through alike! 08452 26 26 94 football activity classes Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders www.fightingcombatfitness.co.uk www.enjoy-a-ball.com [email protected] Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet 020 8201 1084 07818 416 671 E: [email protected]
SportsKids - Multi-Sports Academy Sports Activities for 4 to 16 year olds Tel: 01923 255099 E: [email protected]
Sportscoach are celebrating 10 years by expanding and rebranding to SportsKids Academy American Football - Dodgeball - Handball - Basketball Tag Rugby - Softball - Gaelic Football - Rounders - Athletics Kwik Cricket - Gymnastics - Tennis - Climbing Wall - Fencing Lacrosse - Netball - Volleyball - Archery - Martial Arts - Kin Ball Football - Badminton - Tri Golf - Uni-Hoc
We are located in Harrow and Rickmansworth www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk
The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance • Ballet classes for boys & girls aged 3-18 • Outstanding Royal Academy of Dance examinations results • Established 14 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 Classes are held in the Stanmore and and Bushey Area Suzanne Van Niekerk (RAD Qualified Teacher) T: 020 8950 2457 www.vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk “Develop poise, technique and expression through dance”
18 North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 Local Clubs and Classes
Rugbytots - the UK’s first rugby based play programme for 2-7 year olds. Focusing on developing your child’s motor skills and confidence with fun-filled programmes aimed at improving general ball skills, balance, agility and coordination. Currently classes in Watford, Rickmansworth, Bushey and Stanmore. For more information contact [email protected] SportsKids Academy (WD3 & HA3) Multi-sports Activities for children. All students are taught in small groups of similar age and ability. Mini academy ages 4-6 years (an hour and a half) Main Academy 6-16 years (3 hours). (Previously known as SportsCoach.) Held at JFS The Mall Kenton and Rickmansworth Masonic School Rickmansworth 01923255099 [email protected] www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk
White Crane Karate School (HA8) Want to help your child grow in confidence, learn self discipline, know how to defend themselves, get fitter and make new friends? Go and try a karate class where the emphasis is on all the above as well as having fun. Classes are available in Harrow Weald, Stanmore, Edgware, East Finchley, Central and North Finchley. For children from age four years and above. First class is a free trial. Phone Sheena on 07875 501674 for more information [email protected] www.karatewhitecrane.co.uk
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Find even more local listings and activities online www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk!
North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 19 Local Clubs and Classes
Little Fishes (WD23) Swimming lessons in Bushey from 4 months-9yrs. Using a hydrotherapy pool – perfect for babies and young children learning to swim. Family orientated swim school teaching through play and having fun. They are a very successful school running classes all over North London & Hertfordshire. Debbie 01707 276734 or 07805 309102 www.littlefishesswimclub.co.uk
Push & Glide Swimming School (WD18, WD23, HA6) Push & Glide Swimming School provide extremely high standards of swimming instruction, they pride themselves on their friendly, dynamic teaching environment. They provide fully qualified instructors who are committed to maintaining and improving an excellent quality of teaching along with low ratio swimming lessons in a safe environment for children aged 3.5 years plus. All abilities are catered for, from gaining water confidence through to competition training, following the ASA progressive scheme awards. 07749554405 www.pushandglide.co.uk v continued from page 19 YogaBellies Mum and Baby yoga: Monday afternoons (birth to 10 Splashtime Swim School (various) Swimming lessons, Holiday clubs months) and After school club held at Quainton Hall School. Swimming lessons YogaBellies Little Angels pre-school yoga (18 months to 4 years): also held at Merchant Taylors School and Uxendon Manor Primary SPORTS AND EXERCISE Saturday mornings, Bushey School. Splashtime Swim School 07903126486 YogaBelliesKidz family yoga (children 4-12 years): Saturday & Sunday Children’s Activities 07794078452 Y Active (HA2) New Harrow classes booking now for children and mornings, Bushey adults at the YMCA. A beautiful studio with free parking and a play NEW: YogaBelles Mum and Daughter (13-16 years): Weekday evening, THEATRE AND PERFORMING ARTS garden. Baby, Ballet, Gym, Soft Play and Classes from £4.40. Bushey 020 8832 1576 [email protected] www. Beverley School of Performing Arts (HA8) After school & Saturday classes 07840 904887 ymcawestlondon.org in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Street, Singing & Drama for boys and girls [email protected]; www.yogabellies.co.uk/members/anjli aged 3-18years. ISTD and LAMDA examinations to advanced level. Massage & Yoga 07974 750 224 www.beverleydance.co.uk. Positiv-Life Fitness (various) Specialise in Small group Personal Swimmimg JAM2000 Performing Arts & Agency (HA4) training Pregnancy Pilates, Mum & Baby Yoga & Postnatal Pilates Aqua Style (WD23/HA6) teaches children, babies and adults to swim JAM2000 is an explosive and exciting & Baby Massage, for those in & near Eastcote Ruislip, Pinner, without aids in small groups, or One to One. Good facilities and plenty Performing Arts School and truly like no Northwood & Uxbridge. [email protected] 07974 062 of parking. They run Intensive ‘Fast Track’ Courses during School other, with classes available from 2.5 years 973 www.positivlifefitness.com Holidays and weekly ‘Term Time’ courses. www.aquaswim.org – adults, male and female. Trial sessions www.facebook.com/positivlifefitness > Twitter @PositivLifeFit 07925954144. are available in all subjects. YogaBugs (various) A magical, fun and interactive story-style Aqua Vie Swimming based on effortless swimming and true water Based at The Windmill Studio Centre in Ruislip, specialising adventures for children where they learn yoga techniques. Yoga confidence. Fun classes for babies & Children from 6wks+ to all in Dance, Drama & Film Productions that will blow you away, improves flexibility, posture and concentration and also helps in ages including Adults. New Tues, Wed & Sunday morning classes in JAM2000 has something to offer for all ages and together with relaxation. Fun and engaging classes for children from walking to 12 Bushey WD23. Tel 01923 245 772 www.aqua-vie.com or email office@ their very busy Agency who are always looking for new recruits, years of age. Contact details: 08458997168. deepti@yogabugs. aqua-vie.com providing babies, toddlers, children, teenagers and young adults com. www.yogabugs.com for TV, film and commercials… JAM2000 is the place to be! YogaBelliesKidz Family yoga (HA & WD) Share the mental and Aweswim (various) Aweswim offers courses for people of all ages and For further details: 01895 624755 [email protected] physical benefits of yoga...peace of mind, relaxation and increases abilities, ranging from parent and baby groups through to adults. W: thewindmillstudio.com Fb: The Windmill Studio Centre body strength and flexibility! www.aweswim.co.uk 01923 537070 Twitter: TheWindmillStud
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20 North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 Local Clubs and Classes
Visit Families Watford online: www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk/local/Watford
Push & Glide Swimming School provide extremely high standards of swimming instruction, we pride ourselves on our friendly, dynamic teaching environment. Children’s low-ratio group lessons Children’s private lessons 1-2-1 & 2-2-1 Adults group lessons Adults private lessons 1-2-1 & 2-2-1 P & G Shark Swimming Squad Crash Courses t: 07749554405 e: [email protected] www.pushandglide.co.uk
North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 21 Local Clubs and Classes
Dance
Diddi Dance (NW) Funky pre-school dance class for girls and boys aged 18 months - 4 years. They realise and encourage endless enthusiasm and energy in an action packed, full of fun 45 minute dance class. Using various dancing games and exercises, bells, hoops and dance ribbons to their own funky pop songs your little one not only improves their rhythm and coordination but also social and gross motor skills. They also look at different dance styles every half term from salsa and hip hop to country and disco. Weekly classes held in Willesden Green & Kensal Rise. Affordable nursery sessions and parties also available. Contact: [email protected] 07426 009179
Futunity UK Academy of Sport and Dance (UB8) Purpose built facility in Uxbridge City Centre. Futunity UK offer classes for children ages 2 all the way Everyone Active through to adults. Hip Hop, Street Dance, Gymnastics, Free Running, Breakdancing, Ballet (RAD), Tap (ISTD), Contemporary, Cheerleading, Pole costumes into a performance at the end of the term. Perform Fitness, and Children’s Parties. Classes range from beginners to v continued from page 20 sessions are specially designed to encourage creativity, confidence advanced/competitive levels. Futunity UK also have three fully and communication skills as well as being a kaleidoscope of fun! equipped studios available for hire, at very competitive rates. 0845 400 1275 www.perform.org.uk THEATRE AND PERFORMING ARTS Futunity UK also supply dance (all genres) and gymnastics Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts (HA1, HA4, HA7, WD3) Performance Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools (Various) run weekend dance, teachers into schools to run after/before school extra curricular based theatre school with venues based in Harrow, Rickmansworth, drama and singing classes for children aged 3 - 18 years. Children are sessions, and PE and PPA cover lessons. Ruislip and Stanmore where children aged 3-21 attend weekly classes divided into age appropriate groups and work towards shows and Tel: 01895 251224 in preparation for full scale Musical Theatre productions. presentations. Jigsaw focuses on having fun and building confidence 01923 437693 www.SharpeAcademy.co.uk Website: www.futunityuk.com through engaging performing arts activities. Two week trial available. email: [email protected] 020 8447 4530 www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk Stagecoach (Various) Training in three disciplines: drama, dance and singing. Great for building confidence, making new friends and Nichola Rees Youth Academy – NYRA (WD) An acting and performing beginning to hone talent and enthusiasm for performing, or being arts academy based in Watford, for young people aged 4-18 years. Instep School of Ballet (HA/WD) Trains students of all ages and coaxed out of their shell by having fun! Harrow 020 3504 0100 Weekly workshops on Thursdays and Saturdays, and an annual abilities in ballet, tap, pointe and performance. The school offers Harrow on the Hill & Sudbury Hill 01923 248 294 Stanmore & Harrow performance. 07702 965 851 examinations with the Royal Academy of Dance (ballet) and the Weald 020 3504 2154 Watford 01727 768 738 Queen’s Park 020 7723 [email protected] www.nrya.co.uk Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance (tap), and all teachers are 5861 Northwood 01442 263 599 www.stagecoach.co.uk fully qualified and registered with the RAD and ISTD. They produce a Perform Drama (Various) Together with a team of experienced Wordworks Studio (HA5) Individual and group classes in Speech, summer show each year. Classes in Harrow, North Harrow and Bushey. theatre professionals, the children will combine live original music, Drama and Communication Skills for children 3-18yrs. 07814 793 772 [email protected] inspirational dance and quick witted improvisation and colourful [email protected] www.instepschoolofballet.co.uk
Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools
SCHOOLS IN: Harrow Hendon Watford ✴ ✴ ✴ 3–18 years
TWO WEEK TRIAL AVAILABLE!
020 8447 4530 www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk
22 North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 Local Clubs and Classes
Karan’s Bollywood Masterclass (Various) Fun, Motivating and Popular dance classes that teach a fusion of Bollywood, Bhangra, Hip-Hop and ARTS AND CRAFTS Kathak. Open to Toddlers, Children & Adults - call us now to arrange Art Classes for Kids (and Adults) in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, your trial lesson. All dance levels welcome and training leads to stage painting and mixed media art classes for children and adults. performance opportunities. 0208 423 9543/07944 457 984 On-going, small groups Monday–Thursday afternoons and Saturday www.kspark.co.uk mornings in Term Time for children from Year 1 up. Weekday morning studio sessions for adults in a relaxed, supportive environment. 020 8954 2897 or 07500 006 099 [email protected] Lorna Clark School of Dance (HA) Art and Craft Club (HA5) Term time, Mon 4.30-5.30, Sat 10-11am or Established over 45yrs, the Lorna Clark 11-12pm at Harrow Arts Centre. New activities introduced every term; School trains students aged 3-18yrs drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, sewing, fabric printing and in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Classical much more! For 5-11yr olds. Materials provided. Qualified teachers. Greek and National. 07946 055 422 [email protected] All classes are taught by qualified Luchi and Ota (HA8) Sewing classes and course for kids and adults. teachers. RAD Ballet examinations are offered from Primary to Also hold one-off drop-in sessions and sewing and craft parties. Advanced level and ISTD exams in all other genre to the same 020 8958 7714 [email protected] www.luchiandota.com level. Many past pupils have gone on to full time dance training and to perform. Our aim is to provide classes that encourage a Messmakers! (HA5) A gentle and fun introduction to creative arts for love of dance as well as building confidence and poise, whilst the very young and their families, with lots of mess and none of the establishing excellent dance technique and artistry. The school tidying up! Exploring different materials and textures each week. produces biannual shows and enters pupils for festivals. All Ages under 5, come dressed for mess! 0208 416 8989 classes take place in the South Harrow area. www.harrowarts.com/family Mini Picassos (NW10) Offer exciting after school art courses for 0208 8662105 www.lornaclarkschoolofdance.co.uk children aged 4-13 years. Toddler Picassos - weekdays at 10am & Tues 2.45-3.45pm: Painting, water play, collage, play dough and songs. Ages 15 mnths–3 years. Adults evening Life drawing classes. Mini RISE Studios (WD) Dance and Performing Arts Schools in Watford and Picassos Arty Birthday Party for children aged 2-10 years and Summer Rickmansworth. Classes in ballet, modern, tap, street dance, hip-hop, Holiday workshops too! 07903 638 817 drama, singing, LAMDA and Performing Arts. 01923 218626 www.minipicassos.co.uk [email protected] www.rise-studios.com The Veggie Kitchen (HA7) offers pure vegetarian cookery courses The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance (HA7) Ballet classes to develop in Stanmore. Specialising in Indian cuisines, as well as Thai, Chinese poise, technique and expression through dance, for boys and girls and many more, students will learn to cook nutritious and delicious aged 3-16 years with Royal Academy of Dance examinations vegetarian meals in a friendly and homely environment. Offer group 020 8950 2457 www vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk and one-to-one hands on courses. 0208 204 1906 www.veggiekitchen.co.uk
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www.activetime.co.uk
North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 23 Local Clubs and Classes
v continued from page 23 Fleet Tutors (Various) Private home tutoring for Maths and English; 37 years’ experience. 020 8580 3911 www.fleet-tutors.co.uk AFTER SCHOOL CLUB The Harrow Woodcraft Folk (HA) Elfin group for children, 6 to 9 /EDUCATION SUPPORT year olds are reopening their group after the Summer holidays on Tuesday 6th September in Central Harrow. Parents wishing to join Brownies and Guides (Various) Rainbow, Brownie and Guide Units their children should contact the District Secretary; John Woolf: exist across the area which provide fun activities for girls aged from 020 8428 2409 or e-mail: [email protected] For more 5 onwards. www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested or Peggy information regarding Harrow Woodcraft Folk visit their web site: Brand 020 8205 7597 www.harrowwoodcraftfolk.btck.co.uk/HowtoJoin Champs Learning (HA1) A very structured tuition course for English, High Fliers (HA4 & WD7) 11+ tuition for Independent and Grammar Maths, Science and 11+ exams. Courses run at Harrow College. school entrance. Run by highly experienced and qualified prep 020 3004 9007 www.champslearning.co.uk school teachers offering a unique and tailored tutoring service. Click IT! Computer lessons for Children (HA2) Fun, exciting and 07949 297070/07534 020868 [email protected] www. educational weekly computer lessons for children aged 2-5. Classes high-fliers.org.uk held at nursery schools all over North West London. Have fun Holidaytime After school club is part of Activetime Children’s learning with technology: mouse and keyboard skills and devices Activities limited (HA1) Pick’s up from four local school’s at the end including graphic tablets, trackpads and digital microscopes. Every of the school day, then take the children back to the club for a snack lesson is designed to complement the EYFS curriculum. Free trials and the daily activity. They are open Monday- Friday 3pm-6pm available. 020 8434 7111. Nicole 07794078452 [email protected] www.clickit-kids.co.uk. [email protected]. www.activetime.co.uk DiscoG Coding Boot Camp (various) This weekly Coding Programme Integratedbrain - Improve Co-ordination for learning! (UB5) teaches children in Primary and Secondary Schools the basics of Activities to help those with poor co-ordination, dyspraxia, dyslexia coding. Using the Python Programming Language and the Raspberry or fine motor difficulties. Small groups of 4/5 children working to Pi 3 your child will create fun and engaging gadgets that spring to develop better all-round motor integration. Usha Patel 07766 life with lights and sensors, and prototyping devices that will ‘amaze 837 616 [email protected] www.integratedbrain.co.uk and inspire’. They provide tailored courses written to support the National Curriculum for GCSE and A Levels. Adult courses are also JKEducate Educational Consultancy and Tutoring (various) Tutoring, available. Call Gerard on 07767 300940 Assessments, Consultancy for children 5-18yrs. 7+, 11+, GCSE, A Levels, [email protected] www.discog.co.uk SEN, EFL. 020 3488 0754 www.jkeducate.co.uk Elisa’s Tutorial School (HA8) Experienced private tutor in Edgware. Knowledge Above Standard (HA7) Maths, English, Verbal and non- Programmes for children from 2.5-16 yrs. If your child needs a little verbal reasoning, 7+, 11+ 13+ exam preparation. 07985 588 085 extra help, in English maths verbal and non-verbal 4+ 7+ and 11+ www.knowledgeabovestandard.co.uk preparing for entrance exams or you just want to give them every Leaders are Readers (HA5 & N21) Leaders are Readers offer specialist advantage, Elisa can help. 99% success rate. 020 8958 1192 experience and accelerated learning in their award winning 07956868119 www.childrensstories.net Saturday School, and also run popular Summer and Winter Schools Excel Academy (HA3) Experienced tuition in preparation for SATs, 11+, during holidays. 2 hours spent per subject, including English, 13+, GCSEs, AS & A2 levels. Small group sizes, all aspects of National Maths, Learning to Read and Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. All Curriculum covered. www.excelacademy.org.uk programmes are for ages 3.5 to 11 and the success rate is 90% for Mastermind Tuition (HA) Specialise in 11+, Maths, English, Verbal helping pupils prepare to sit entrance exams, including 4+, 5+, 7+ Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to 5-14 & Non-verbal reasoning (including CEM-style) and Grammar & and 11+. Childcare vouchers accepted. 01992 651 300 www. Independent school preparation. Classes in Harrow & Northwood year olds of all abilities. Visit their website to find your nearest leadersarereaders.co.uk centre or call to book a free trial class! (free parking on site) Visit the website or call 07478 878672 to book a FREE TRIAL www.mastermindtuition.com www.explorelearning.co.uk. Little Big Leaders Ltd (HA7) Supplementary School for students aged three and a half to 11 years undertaking Reading, Maths and English. [email protected] First Class Learning (Various) Structured yet flexible programme, 020 8213 3100 07949 925374 designed for children studying the UK National Curriculum. Tailored Magikats (HA1) Innovative programmes, written to support the to a child’s learning needs & style. Find out more about this The London Tutors (Various) Specialises in providing 11 Plus National Curriculum from ages 3 – 16, Sat at Gayton Library, Harrow. structured approach to learning, by contacting one of your local classroom based learning, to yr 4 and 5 students. Prepare students Individual programmes and support for individual children, promotes confidence, skills and a love of learning. 02084275663 Centre managers. www.firstclasslearning.co.uk to sit exams for Grammar and private schools. For a call back email your name and phone number to [email protected] www.magikats.com
Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford call: 0208 123 9346 email: [email protected] Harrow (HA3), North Wembley and Bushey call: 0208 422 0676 email: [email protected]
24 North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 Local Clubs and Classes
Math’scool Award-winning Maths Tuition plus out-of-lesson The Play Shelter After School Club at Malorees Infant & Junior homework support. 0333 12 33 445 www.mathscool.com Schools (NW6) - 3.30pm to 6pm term time. Play schemes available The Northwood Speech and Language Therapy Practice (HA6) An out of term-time. 0207 407 6744 for more information. independent service covering a range of children’s communication [email protected] www.theplayshelter.co.uk difficulties. 01923 824 074 www.northwoodpractice.co.uk The Rainbow Club (various) Specialise in preparing for 3+, 4+ and 5+ Number Works ‘n’ Words (Eastcote) After school Maths and English entrance exams. 07850 045 471 [email protected] tuition classes which target identified needs to improve achievement Raviv Practice London (UB5) Catch up reading course for children levels. They set goals for your child, monitor progress and provide on the SEN register. Reading courses are flexible with home based regular progress reports. Cater for all levels from Reception to Year 11. learning (via computer) monitored daily. www.numberworksnwords.co.uk Usha Patel on 07766 837 616 [email protected] (registered therapist) Simple Studies (NW4) Offer expert English and Maths tuition for 4-16 year olds at their cosy centre in Hendon. They specialise in 11+ entrance exams. Quote ‘Familiesmagazine’ and get 10% off your first Play and Learn (WD23) lesson! 07793 498195 www.simplestudies.co.uk Offer competitively priced Maths and English tuition for Susan Daughtrey Education (SDE) SW Herts courses are based on children aged from 3-16 years. They provide a formula that more than 25 years experience preparing students for 11+ tests. works to inspire and encourage learning with the added All courses have been personally written by Susan Daughtrey benefit of play, whilst reinforcing and supporting their M.Ed, author of the market leading verbal reasoning Technique school education. Most importantly, they use qualified and and Practice series. Every year since 1987, over 90 per cent. of the experienced teachers unlike many other services available. students on the courses have achieved success. 020 7683 0734 www.sdeuk.org/swherts Lessons are taught in small groups of 6-8 children to maximise results. Each session (for Primary years) includes a 50 minute Stanmore Tutor Stanmore Tutor prepares students thoroughly for lesson, a snack and an hour’s play to encourage your child’s the top selective schools ensuring that they reach their maximum efforts. potential for that all important place. 020 3538 2437 Type IT! - Touch Typing Lessons for Children (HA5) Learn to touch Contact them now on 01923 248747 (option 3) or email type! Specifically designed courses for children from age 8-18. Highly [email protected] or see the website: recommended for children with dyslexia. Classes are held at their www.parentsparadise.eu/play-and-learn/ office in Harrow on the Hill, HA2 0JT. Free trials available. Adult classes also available. 020 8434 7111. Pinner Tuition Centre (Pinner) After school and Sat tuition for www.typeitforkids.co.uk. [email protected]. Reception to Year 11 by fully qualified teachers. Tuition in Maths, Find even more local listings Reading, Spelling, Writing, SATS, 11+ and GCSE. FREE ASSESSMENT. and activities online Ofsted Registered. www.pinnertuitioncentre.co.uk www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk
Visit Families Brent online: www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk/local/Brent
North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 25 What’s New
The Breath Bloom&Wild’s Company new posy One important consideration in subscription preventing tooth decay service – with is the type of oral products that are being kids in mind! used by children. Many The Posy subscription makes a great gift for children, allowing them children’s toothpastes to arrange their own posies each month and learn about the natural may be very acidic in beauty of flowers from a young age. The Posy Party box contains order to give them a “candy-like” taste and some studies have shown eighteen stems which can be mix-and-matched, trimmed and placed that low pH mouthwash can erode tooth enamel just as much as too in the five accompanying miniature glass bottles to create unique many sweets. Increasingly children’s dentists recommend the anti- mini-bouquets (reusable for subsequent orders in the subscription). . acid formula used in The Breath Company product line - they are pH As with the bouquet subscriptions, these can be ordered in three, six balanced to neutralize oral acids instantly and they don’t contain any or twelve month bundles and can be arranged for nominated dates artificial flavours, colours, or sweeteners. (e.g. birthdays, Christmas etc) if desired. A craft-based activity that’s www.thebreathco.com fun for all the family Encourage kids www.bloomandwild.com creativity with Lala Super Snacks for Little Super & Bea’s Design Your Heroes Everywhere Own Pyjamas Super Snacks are savoury crisps for This super soft, 100% organic cotton pyjama toddlers. Made from quinoa and lentil, set is made in Britain and comes with fun they are a high source of protein and neon Dylon pens that children can use to deliver a slow, steady release of energy. create their own unique PJs. Included is an Super Snacks can be eaten on the move inspiration guide sheet to help children create patterns and designs or and are a great way to introduce grains and they can simply use their imagination to design their own. Packaged pulses to your children. The light and crispy lentil in a mini tote bag that can also be decorated this is an ideal gift to crisps are seasoned with sour cream and chive, and the quinoa crisps encourage individuality and creativity. Suitable for ages 3-12yrs. are naturally flavoured. For 12 months to grown-ups. www.lalaandbea.com www.Kiddylicious.co.uk
26 North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 Mummy on the Edge Angelina gets on her bike. And then can’t.
o I’m sitting Elated and only here in my slightly bruised, I bed-office walked back to the (yes, that car with my old dad IS a thing) whom I had brought trying to write this along to watch and Scolumn for your he said, “That was delectation but I all wrong. Someone keep stopping to needs to hold the listen to Midi-Me back of you and who is singing run while you ride eighties songs as you are very loudly in the wobbly. I could have taught you better.” kitchen while “OMG! I’ve JUST learnt! Obviously I need practice! You had making pancakes forty-three years! Why didn’t you??” I retorted, incredulous at for breakfast. Take his lack of vicarious joy. heart, dear reader: “It never occurred to me.” after years of no sleep, mopping puke, feeding, watering and loving them (most As someone who possess neither of the time) you eventually start to turn a profit. confidence nor coordination it Judging by Midi-Me’s excellent was a delightful shock when I impression of Rick Astley, she is in good spirits and quite right too, as we have just lifted both feet off the floor returned from a week in France. Our June-inset-day-inspired break in the Cote d’Azur never happened as my dad had an unfortunate accident on the High Street in Watford and he and pedalled both pedals at needed me here. (Unexpected isn’t it, to find those two locations in a sentence together.) So instead, I booked an August week in the same time. Il de Ré which is an island off the west coast of France over the bridge from La Rochelle. Thing is, in Il de Ré, it’s all about the bikes. That’s how everyone gets around mostly, from town to town. So, while Midi-Me was on a wonderful engineering course (which I will Picture it, Midi-Me and I, baguettes in our baskets, riding in tell you about in next month’s education issue) I found a course rapturous gallic cyclement through the hollyhocks of quaint little of my own. If, like me, you never had the opportunity, always towns around Il de Ré, our hair flying like a jubilant Tricolore felt you were missing out, and really want to enjoy the basic in the breeze, and behind us a soundtrack of popular French pleasure of riding to the park with your mini-you, guess what: accordion music. it’s not too late to learn! Most boroughs offer subsidised classes Naturally, it never happened. If you are regular reader to get you on your bike and you can find these by asking the you will know it’s because our lives run like a British spin-off google. I contacted watfordcyclehub.org.uk which is a brilliant of Modern Family. I broke a few ribs a couple of weeks before organisation that services, repairs and re-builds bikes. They leaving by slipping in the bath. We still went, sharing one take donations and sell bikes and run fun events and most Easyjet-sized hand luggage between us to avoid me having importantly for me, they offer cycle classes for children and to carry anything (coz I couldn’t). Relying on walking slowly adults! and infrequent buses to get around the island wasn’t ideal but I treated myself to a one-to-one class (they also offer equally wasn’t the end of the world. We gorged on the freshest women-only group classes) with the fantastically patient and fish, market delicacies, and oysters as big as my hand washed encouraging Fiona. She took the pedals off and had me scooting down with Ré Lemonade for her and Pineau (local wine which along, balance-bike-style. And then after a while, she added a had a wonderful anaesthetic effect…) for me. And a rainbow of pedal. And after some practice, she added a second pedal. As glace flavours with crepes and waffles. And buttery croissants someone who possess neither confidence nor coordination it for breakfast every day. was a delightful shock when I lifted both feet off the floor and Franchement, what else does one need? pedalled both pedals at the same time. (Documentary evidence available on the blog and facebook page). I spent the latter part of the hour-and-half of tuition in nirvana, flying on wheels mynotesfromtheedge.blogspot.com * facebook. around the basketball court, my shirt billowing in the wind, like com/angelinamelwani * twitter @appleina you see people do in real life! I just kept picturing Midi-Me’s face *Instagram @mynotesfromtheedge * so happy and proud of me when I showed her what I could do!
North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 27 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 (October 2016) send your entry by 10th September 2016 Email [email protected]. Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check details of the events before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.
www.FamiliesOnline for all our local weekly regular events. It’s updated every day!
September
Until Sun 4 Sep - The Beach Brent Cross (NW4) London’s Largest Urban Beach and Theme Park is back at Brent Cross this year. There are 350 tonnes of golden sand and 2,500m2 of beach with rides and entertainment. There’s a mix of new and exciting rides, along with the good old favourites. There is also a fun range of entertainment that is sure to bring that holiday feeling, with exciting free lessons for the little ones. www.thebeachbrentcross.com
Wed 31 Aug – Sun 25 Sep - London’s Free Open-Air Theatre Season (SE1) Gods and Monsters have made a last minute change to their repertoire this summer, offering 20,000 free seats to a family production celebrating Poland’s mythology. Collaborating with Polish theatre maker Nastazja Domaradzka, Gods and Monsters will bring to life Krakow’s Dragon of Wawel, one of Poland’s most enduring, much loved and iconic myths. The Wawel Dragon will play alongside a new rock musical of Dostoyevsky’s Crime and Punishment, with songs by the legendary Toyah Willcox and her song-writing partner Simon Darlow. Running since 2003, this is still London’s only ‘free to all’ annual festival of theatre - there’s no need to book, just turn up at The Scoop and take a seat! www.godsandmonsterstheatre.com
Until Mon 17 April 2017 - Fire Fire (EC2Y) The Great Fire of London of 1666 destroyed much of the old London city exactly 350 years ago, a major event in the history of the city. This exhibition at The Museum of London shows how the city rose from the ashes. There is an animated map of the Great Fire as well as Wild Night Out - ZSL London Zoo hands on displays and amazing artefacts from the time, including a fire squirt and the era’s closest thing to a fire engine. www.museumoflondon.org.uk Sat 3 Sep & Sat 1 Oct - Northwood Craft Sun 4 Sep - Harrow and Wembley Minature Hands-on crafts for children and beautiful The ever popular miniature railway is back Thu 1 Sep - Minibeast Hunt (UB9) Where do bugs Market (HA6) Railway (HA4) hide? Discover a world of little creatures as you explore on the handmade crafts for Mums & Dads to browse & buy. Open for 2016! They are open for Public Train rides on Sunday Afternoons ground, in the trees and under logs at Colne Valley Park. £2.50 per 10am-2pm at Northwood Methodist Church Hall. Free admission. from around 2.30 to 5pm, weather and conditions permitting. child, booking essential. Sessions run at 11am to 12pm & 1pm to 2pm. www.northwoodcraftmarket.co.uk . www.hwsme.org 01895 833 375 [email protected] www. Sat 3 – Sun 4 Sep - Harrow Festival (HA3) There Tue 6 – Sat 10 Sep - Wild Night Out – At The colnevalleypark.org.uk will be a fantastic collection of entertainment over the two days in Cinema! (NW1) This September, animal lovers can watch their Byron Park, including fair rides, side shows, market stalls, and the Fri 2, Fri 9 & Sun 11 Sep – Filmsmeet (WD6) favourite films surrounded by their favourite animals - when ZSL Filmsmeet at Watersmeet Theatre presents showings of the BFG on festival of colour, Holifest. Anyone of any age can join in this rich London Zoo brings the silver screen to the great outdoors! Silent Friday 2nd Sep, and Finding Dory on Fri 9th and Sun 11th Sep. There tradition of colour throwing, and join in celebrating everything that Cinema will run for just five nights, kicking off with the classic are 3 showings per day so times to suit all! is fun and wonderful in life. So grab a bag of colour and wait for adventure flick Jumanji, followed by Ace Ventura: When Nature www.watersmeet.co.uk the signal to throw it high! There will also be a world food arena, Calls, ‘80s classic Gorillas in the Mist and Disney’s The Lion King. and a business zone for local businesses wanting to showcase their The Zoo’s very own safari guides will take guests on a pre-movie Sat 3 Sep - Charity concert - Alex Ainley products. twilight tour around specially-chosen enclosures before film buffs & The Nightingale Jazz Quartet (WD25) A www.harrowfestival.co.uk. can choose to feast on a wild range of gourmet grub before cosying concert raising funds for Elizabeth’s Legacy of Hope, who provide up for the big-screen spectacular. prosthetics and education to vulnerable child amputees in Sierra Sun 4 Sep - Living History Day (WD6) A fun day www.zsl.org. Leone, Liberia, and India. Alex Ainley & The Nightingale Jazz Quartet at Aldenham Country Park with lots of fun activities for all the will host a great mix of classical piano, jazz quartet arrangements family, featuring some very special Huskie guests. Activities include Wed 7 – Sun 18 Sep - The Big Screen: Rio and stand up humour. Suitable for the whole family. At Edge Grove Archery, Vikings, Arts and Crafts, Balloon Modellers, Crafts for sale, Paralympics (NW9) 4 years ago Team GB’s Paralympians School at 7.30pm. a New Age stall, a Food stall and an Old fashioned sweet cart. Free won a massive haul of 120 medals - 34 Gold, 43 Silver and 43 www.elizabethslegacyofhope.org/charity-jazz-concert-alex-ainley- entry just pay £4.50 for parking on the day or £4 online in advance. Bronze, a truly inspirational achievement. This summer the RAF friends/ www.aldenhamcountrypark.co.uk Museum will be showing all the highlights and live events on a big screen during their opening hours of 10am to 6pm. So bring the Sat 3 Sep & Sat 1 Oct - Kids Run Free (UB10) Sun 4 Sep - Celebration of the Re-Opening noise and cheer on a new generation of British Paralympians. Running Races on the 1st Saturday of the month for under 16’s at of the Grand Band Stand in Watford (WD18) www.rafmuseum.org.uk Hillingdon Court Park. All ages welcome from toddlers to teenagers Watford Council has restored the band stand and relocated it to its and everyone in between. No running experience required, simply original position in Cassiobury Park, where it stood 100 years ago. To mark this major milestone, there will be a re-opening ceremony Thu 8 – Sat 10 Sep - Saw & Sand Festival (W4) turn up and have fun, it’s free to take part. Race 1 - under 2 year The team behind The London International Ice Festival are bringing olds run 50 metres; Race 2 - 3 to 4 year olds run 100 metres; Race at 1.30pm, with the Mayor and the Park Management, followed by a festival for all the family. There will be free live music - Jazz Bands, another magnificent experience to Chiswick House. An exciting, 3 - 5 to 6 year olds run 250 metres; Race 4 - Any age run as many unique immersive arts & cultural Festival, which centres around laps as they want up to 5K Steel Bands, and Brass Bands, as well as dancing and workshops. www.watford.gov.uk monumental sand sculpting and chainsaw wood carving prepare [email protected] www.kidsrunfree.co.uk to be amazed. Watch some of the world’s finest sculptors working
28 North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 What’s On
Willows Farm in wood and sand captivate the audience with their live sculpting Sat 10 Sep - Leaps and Bounds: Unlimited with a short exploration of alter ego ideas and facial expressions of staggering, large-scale Sand Sculptures & Wooden Chainsaw (SE1) Jump into a day of exciting and accessible activities for and characteristics which you will then attempt to create with a Carvings. disabled children aged 12 and under, and their families at the variety of malleable materials. Everyone will go home with a playful www.chgt.org.uk Southbank Centre.Enjoy an array of performances and crafting mask! Not suitable for children under 5 years, and children must be and making workshops at the Royal Festival Hall’s Clore Ballroom. supervised by their accompanying adult. 2-4pm. Thu 8 – Sun 11 Sep - Netherlands National The day’s activities are also British Sign Language-interpreted. www.thecockpit.org.uk Circus (UB9) A fast paced, all human production, in the 11am-4pm theatre-styled Big Top on Harefield Common. Packed full of www.southbankcentre.co.uk Sat 17 Sep - Celebrity Cars at the Broadwalk comedy, juggling, aerial performances, balancing, acrobatics and Centre (HA8) A pair of iconic four-wheeled 80s movie ‘stars’ modern laser lighting. Don’t miss 2 hours of spectacular family Sat 10 Sep - Objects On Demand (AL3) Celebrate will roll into The Broadwalk Centre to entertain shoppers and film entertainment accompanied by the only live circus orchestra in the Heritage Open Days by seeing objects usually hidden away in the fans. Replicas of the famous Batmobile, from the original 1989 country. Verulamium Museum stores.Pick an object from the Museum’s movie, and The Ghostbusters Ecto-1, from the 1984 classic, will be www.thenetherlandscircus.com special catalogue, see it up close and learn more about it from the at the shopping centre from 12pm until 4pm, to mark the launch of collections team. 10.30am-4.30pm. The Broadwalk Centre’s new Number Plate Lottery campaign. The Fri 9 – Sat 10 Sep - The Grand Vintage Fair www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk Number Plate Lottery, which will run from Mon 19th Sept until Sun (AL3) This fair, taking place at the Jubilee Centre in St Albans, will 16th Oct, will offer four lucky drivers who park in the centre’s car Sat 10 – Sun 11 Sep - Tring Heritage Weekend be full to the rafters with retro relics and kitsch collectibles! Go and park the chance to win free parking for a whole month. (HP23) Enjoy a short talk at the Natural History Museum in Tring, find vintage fashions and accessories, gold and silver jewellery, www.thebroadwalkcentre.co.uk upcycled furniture, art glass, china and more. Open 10am till 4pm. and join the Woodland Trust or the Local History Museum for a walk www.facebook.com/TheGrandVintageFair around the local area, adults, advance booking required. Tring Town Sat 17 Sep - NCT Harrow Nearly New Sale walk 2 to 4pm, Tring Park walk Sat: 10.30am, Sun: 2pm. (HA3) Nearly New Sales help parents to save money by picking up Sat 10 Sep - Lots for Tots - Baby and Toddler www.nhm.ac.uk bargains, help other parents make money by selling good quality Table Top Sale (WD23) An indoor table top sale at Bushey baby and kids items they no longer need and encourage re-use. At Academy for people that want to sell their second hand baby, Sat 10 – Sun 25 Sep - Potato Shindig at Kenton Evangelical Church from 2 – 3.30pm. toddler and childrens items, and those that want to buy them. Our Willows Activity Farm (AL4) Harvest your free bag of www.nct.org.uk visitors can browse each sellers table and pick out exactly what potatoes at Willows Potato Patch. Plus tattie-tastic potato arts they need, paying the seller direct. Parking is completely free and and crafts, and see Spuddy the potato mascot in his own weekend Sat 17 - Sun 18 Sep - Open House 2016 at directly outside the building, making it easy for you to load your car shows! Manor Farm (HA4) As part of London’s Open House with all of your goodies. 0870 129 9718 www.willowsactivityfarm.com weekend 2016, you are invited to go and take a closer look at the [email protected] www.lotsfortotssale.co.uk rich heritage at the Manor Farm site in Ruislip. This is a free event - Sun 11 Sep - Storytelling Family Workshop (N1) just turn up on the day! Sat 10 Sep - Pinner Village Show (HA5) A family This tactile storytelling workshop at the Parasol Unit invites parents www.hillingdontheatres.uk friendly show which allows local charities and good causes to and children to explore Rana Begum’s exhibition for inspiration, promote themselves to the local community. There will be various before singing songs and creating objects and imaginary characters Sun 18 Sep - Michael Sobell Hospice Annual types of entertainment including a children’s fair ground that has a with a range of materials. Suitable from age 5 years & parents/ Sponsored Walk (HA6) Join the popular Michael Sobell bouncy castle, miniature railway and lots of other activities to keep carers, booking required. 2.30 – 4pm. Hospice annual 3 or 7-mile Sponsored Walk through Northwood, youngsters of all ages happy! At the Memorial Park from 11am-4pm. www.parasol-unit.org Moor Park and Rickmansworth golf clubs, as well as the picturesque www.rotary-ribi.org canal. 3-milers will then be transported from Spring Well Lock back Sun 11 Sep - The London Mid Century Market to the Hospice base at Mount Vernon Hospital for well-deserved Sat 10 Sep - Harlington Hospice Garden Fete (NW1) The UK’s leading 1950s fair is returning to its London home refreshments and a little R&R. This event is open to all ages and (UB3) A fun afternoon in the held in the grounds of Harlington at Cecil Sharp House, and will be showcasing the highest quality abilities (children under 16 to be accompanied by an adult). Entry Hospice. Entertainment including Music from Mr B, The community vintage from the 1950s, as well as reproduction brands from all costs £10pp, Family offer £25 (2 adults, 2 children) choir, HURBS. Also available on the day are Refreshments, Games, around the UK. Doors will open to the public from 11am until 4pm, www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk BBQ,and many stalls. 12noon - 4pm. with two halls full of an array of rare to find vintage and popular www.harlgintonhospice.org reproduction items. www.midcenturymarket.co.uk continued on page 30 v Sat 10 Sep - Family Fun Day: Cancer Research UK Relay For Life Harrow (HA3) Relay For Life Sat 17 Sep – Mum2Mum Market Harrow Harrow’s 10th anniversary will be kicking off from 12:30pm at the (HA2) Are your cupboards bursting with outgrown baby stuff? Bannister Stadium, with a celebration of cancer survivorship, a full Then this popular Harrow market is the place to be! Sell it all at The afternoon of celebrating and partying, and a few surprises along Beacon Centre and recycle it back into that much needed cash! It’s For many more local the way! 200 fundraising volunteers will be undertaking a massive easy, fast, and you get to keep 100% of the takings! events and diary dates 21-hour relay walk to celebrate cancer survivorship, remember those www.mum2mummarket.co.uk we have lost and to fight back against cancer; as well as holding for the whole family visit one of the borough’s best family focussed events. Sat 17 Sep - Cockpit Family Crafts - Masks www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk www.facebook.com/events/1637149049872745/ Workshop (NW8) The mask is used in theatrical works as a transformative dramatic tool. This two hour workshop will begin
North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 29 What’s On
Sat 1 Oct - Chorleywood Community Apple Orchard Day (WD3) Go along to Chorleywood House with friends and family to enjoy this celebration of all things apple. Entry is free and there are attractions and activities for everyone. Children can help by pressing apples into juice using a traditional crusher and press, while adults can taste the Cider. There will also be apple based children’s crafts, and a chance to sample and buy apples, as well as juice, cakes & preserves. 11am to 3pm. www.chorleywood-pc.gov.uk
Sat 1 Oct - Artsdepot’s Fun Palace (N12) The annual, free, worldwide celebration of arts, science and culture returns for its third year. Artsdepot will join 150+ Fun Palaces expected to pop up across the UK and globally in arts centres, swimming pools, theatres, universities, back gardens, castles, libraries, woodlands and more - and you’re invited. www.artsdepot.co.uk
Sat 1 Oct – Sat 26 Nov - Discovery Archery (SG13) Try something different and experience the thrill of pulling back a bow and shooting an arrow into the target at The Archery Barn. Enjoy as a family or watch as your children learn a new sport! Your discover archery session will be led by experienced Celtic Harmony Archery Instructors so you can learn the basics and develop your technique. Archery courses are designed for children age 7 years plus and adults. www.celticharmony.org/archery Drayton Manor Theme Park Fireworks Spectacular ©Ashley Gardner Sun 2 Oct - Mum2mum Market Watford (WD25) Go along to Leavesden Green Community Centre and join Sun 25 Sep - Bat Walk - Leavesden Country the award winning nearly new baby and children’s indoor market Park (WD5) Free guided walk with Park Rangers to discover v continued from page 29 where mums sell to mums. Buy top quality baby and children’s these magical creatures of the night in their natural habitat. Bat goods at a fraction of the high street price! detectors provided. Booking required. www.mum2mummarket.co.uk Sun 18 Sep - Bat Walk - Rickmansworth 01923 776611 www.threerivers.gov.uk Aquadrome (WD3) A free guided walk with Park Rangers to discover these magical creatures of the night in their natural habitat. Mon 26 Sep – Mon 21 Nov - Effective Parenting Sat 8 Oct - Hidden Treasures and Sea Legends Bat detectors provided. Booking required. Course (HA1) This 8 week course is aimed at helping parents Family Rave (E14) Get your glowsticks out for a family- 01923 776611 www.threerivers.gov.uk and carers with a child aged 3-12 years learn practical communication friendly rave with DJ Aston Harvey in the Georgian warehouse at skills and positive discipline strategies for everyday life. To develop the Museum of London Docklands. Everyone from the smallest Sun 18 Sep – Eid Celebration at the Palace their abilities to raise confident, happy and co-operative children. swashbuckler to the biggest buccaneer will enjoy the multi-sensory (WD17) Head along for a wonderful Eid celebration at the Palace Topics include: Building self-esteem for children and parents, dancefloor delights like glitter cannons, giant balloons, bubble with an evening of live music and dance performances from local understanding children’s behaviour, listening skills, effective machines and a parachute dance. community and professional performers, including Sona Walia, Ali communication, positive discipline, dealing with feelings and setting www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-london-docklands Abbas and Pearls of Islam. limits. Sessions are weekly (excluding half term) from 7-9pm at Hope www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk Harrow, 64 Pinner Road. Spaces are limited and are on a first come, Sun 9 Oct - Family Barn Dance (NW1) The entire first served basis. family can take part in lively dances from the British Isles in a Wed 21 Sep - Visit to Crohn’s and Colitis UK’s 020 8863 7319 [email protected] New Office and The Horn Pub (AL1) Go and see supportive and fun environment at Cecil Sharp House. Live music Crohn’s and Colitis UK’s new office at Grosvenor Road, St Albans and inspires the dancing and expert callers guide the moves with simple Thu 29 Sep - Five Decades on the Final instructions. Groups should include a minimum of one adult for meet staff members across the charity between 6 & 8pm. They will Venture to the final frontier and beyond at Frontier (SE10) every four children. No unaccompanied children or adults! then head to The Horn pub after. Pre-registration will be required to the Royal Observatory Greenwich, through planetarium shows and www.cecilsharphouse.org attend and more information about the event will be released closer interactive sessions to celebrate fifty years of space science fiction. to the date. 7-9pm, suitable for ages 11+. www.crohnsandcolitis.org.uk www.rmg.co.uk Sun 23 - Sat 29 Oct - Samhain Celebrations (SG13) Samhain was the Celtic New Year, and Celtic Harmony Sat 24 Sep - Mum2Mum Market Eastcote Fri 30 Sep – Sat 12 Nov - Awesome Autumn will be marking this historically significant period with a week of (HA4) Loads of bargains for buyers - if you are looking for sensory Adventures For Little Warriors at Knight’s Samhain Celebrations. There’s a variety of hands-on workshops, toys, stair gates, Moses baskets or a jumperoo one of the sellers is Village (CV34) Families on a quest for awesome autumn activities and demonstrations guaranteed to keep the kids bound to have it. Eastcote Community Centre provides free parking adventure should head to Knight’s Village at Warwick Castle for a entertained over Half Term. Then on Sun 30 Oct welcome in the Celtic for buyers and sellers, and tables are provided. Refreshments ‘Little Warrior Weekend’, now available to book on selected dates New Year at the Samhain Festival! This one of the biggest events of available. Children Welcome and there is buggy step free access. this September, October and November. Every young guest - knight the year, with archery, bonfires, drumming, pottery, story-telling, Don’t forget it’s only £2 on the door and if you go along with a or princess - can learn sword skills from a warrior, have a go at face painting, pumpkin carving, woodland quests, bread making, friend, click the link and pay only half the entrance fee. archery and enjoy thrilling entertainment as part of a magical processions, warrior training and much more! Pre-booking is www.mum2mummarket.co.uk/get-free-entry.html hillingdon@ Woodland Lodge sleepover. absolutely essential. mum2mummarket.co.uk www.warwick-castle.com/sleepovers www.celticharmony.org
Sat 24 Sep - The Landlubbers’ Maritime Folk Festival (SE10) Save yourself a journey to the coast and October enjoy the best of maritime folk culture at the National Maritime Don’t forget to pick up Museum. Stomp your feet to sea shanties, hear the salty yarns of our Sun 1 Oct - St Albans & Harpenden Food & figureheads or try your hand at some traditional maritime crafts. The Drink Festival Street Finale (AL1) A food-themed street OUR OCTOBER ISSUE festival culminates with BBC Folk Club winner the Nest Collective’s party including Oaklands City Farm, music, workshops and over 100 new monthly shanty sessions at Cutty Sark. 10am-5pm. street food and drink vendors. Taking place on St Peter’s Stree, the in a few weeks’ time www.rmg.co.uk Festival offers a variety of activities for children and families, many for listings including Sun 25 Sep - Hayes Canal Festival 2016 (UB3) free. 12-6pm. A family friendly celebration of the canal at Highpoint Village in www.enjoystalbans.com Hayes. Take to the water on trip boats, canoes and paddleboards, try HALF TERM, your hand at fishing, have your face painted, wander through the Sun 1 Oct - Sunday Funday (SW3) Sunday Funday stalls or just sit back and enjoy some great food, dance and music from 12pm-4pm at Chelsea Physic Garden. Free with Garden entry. Halloween by the waterside. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk www.canalrivertrust.org.uk and FIREWORKS!
30 North West London SEPTEMBER 2016 Compiled by Anna Blackshaw What’s On in Children’s Theatre We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check before setting out.
Sun 25 Sep – The Emperor’s Sat 17 Sep – Sun 20 Nov – Let’s Fly audiences on an imaginative and touching Artsdepot New Clothes This romp through a classic, Can you fly? Just Imagine if you could. What does journey which gently challenges us to consider 5 Nether Street, North Finchley, N12 eccentric tale tells the story of an Emperor who your home look like when you’re as high as the our priorities in a world full of crisis. There are 020 8369 5454 www.artsdepot.co.uk loves clothes more than anything. But there birds and the aeroplanes? Or even a spaceship… no set ticket prices, pay what you can after is a problem… Despite a wardrobe the size of let’s find out! Emily has a secret; she knows how the performance. All proceeds go to Save the Paris he’s run out of outfits and it’s his birthday to fly and she wants you to come on an adventure Children’s Child Refugee Crisis Appeal. Ages 8+ tomorrow! He hasn’t got a stitch to wear! When with her. Hold her hand and soar over cities, float two ‘designers’ come to town with a promise above oceans and glide across mountains. You’ve Tue 13 Sep – Mon 21 Nov - The to create him an outfit that’s “never been never seen the whole world until you’ve sat on Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark seen before”, our eccentric Emperor doesn’t top of a cloud. Ages 2-6 years Plop is a Baby Barn Owl, fat, fluffy with a beautiful quite realise the spectacle he is about to make. heart-shaped ruff and knackety knees. He’s still Populated with puppets, music and song, this Lyric Theatre learning to fly, very curious and almost always inventive and energetic production is told in true hungry. And he’s afraid of the dark, which is not Stuff and Nonsense style; with unending energy, Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 7ES very helpful for a night-bird. So his exasperated great storytelling and, as always, a show for all 0844 482 9674 www.nimaxtheatres.com mother sends him on several missions to find out the family. Ages 3+ more about night time. ‘Dark is exciting’ says a Until Sun 4 Sep – The Gruffalo This small boy. ‘Kind’ says an old lady. ‘Necessary’ says July everyone’s favourite furry monster roars Sun 11 Sep - Comedy Club 4 Kids a little girl. Then he meets a cat who tells Plop Since 2005, the Comedy Club 4 Kids has been back into the West End in celebration of his 15th ‘there are many kinds of dark’ and shows him the getting the best stand-ups and sketch acts anniversary on stage! The most fearsome creature beauty of the night. After all this enthusiasm, will from the international circuit to do their thing that never was - but is - takes to the stage in this Plop learn to embrace the dark? Ages 2-6 years for an audience of children and their families… enchanting production combining songs, laughter but without the rude bits! It’s just like a normal and storytelling theatre with just the right Sat 24 Sep – Fri 21 Oct - Jason and comedy club, but it’s on in the day, kids are amount of scary fun! Set to a wonderfully catchy the Argonauts Banished as a baby, Jason allowed in, and so there is a higher than usual score with original music and lyrics, The Gruffalo is back and ready to claim his rightful throne. In chance of heckles like “why is that your face!?” is a must-see show which continues to entertain order to prove himself, he is sent on an epic quest audiences the world over. Ages 6+ The Emperor’s New Clothes to find the Golden Fleece. He assembles a crew of mighty Argonauts and they set sail aboard the Sun 18 Sep - The Girl and the Puppet Theatre Barge Argo for the ultimate adventure. Along the way, The Beck Theatre he meets deranged kings, horrific harpies, sinister Giraffe One day whilst Girl is playing in her Little Venice W9 garden, she spots something peculiar on the other Grange Road, Hayes. sirens and a host of fearsome challenges. Does side of the fence. Climbing up as high as she can, 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com Jason have what it takes to be a hero, and bring she is surprised when she comes face to face 020 8561 8371 www.becktheatre.org.uk 2–4; 10–11; 17-18 & 24-25 Sep - the Golden Fleece back home? Join in this thrilling with... Giraffe! Girl discovers that Giraffe isn’t very Sat 17 – Sun 18 Sep – Peppa Pig’s Brer Rabbit Visits Africa Brer Rabbit mission impossible where the hero’s destiny is well and she tries everything she can to make Surprise Surprise! Peppa Pig, George and travels to Africa to visit his grand mother. He placed in the hands of the gods. Ages 6-12 years him feel a bit better. She soon realises that Giraffe their friends are back in Hayes in a brand-new gets himself into trouble, and all the animals of doesn’t need a plaster for a graze on his arm or a live stage show, Peppa Pig’s Surprise. It’s a lovely Africa – elephant, lion and tortoise alike – gather Watford Palace Theatre scratch on his knee. Giraffe is sad, and sometimes day and Peppa is playing outside with her friends. to help. Based on the traditional Brer Rabbit tales, we need a different kind of plaster for the things Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig have got a surprise this show was specially written for the company. Clarendon Road, Watford WD17 you can’t always see. Charming puppetry, an for her and George – they can’t guess what it is, Ages 3-90 yrs 01923 225 671 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk can you? Enjoy fun, loads of songs and of course, enchanting soundscape and beautiful storytelling Sat 10 Sep – Comedy Club 4 Kids combine in this sensitive show about wellbeing surprises in this charming, colourful new show. The Radlett Centre Family favourite Comedy Club 4 Kids returns to and friendship, told from a child’s perspective. Peppa Pig’s Surprise promises to be the perfect Watford Palace Theatre after last years success Ages 3-6 years theatre show for all pre-schoolers! 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7 bringing the best stand-ups and sketch acts 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk from the international circuit to do their thing Cadogan Hall Sat 10 Sep – Monstersaurus This for an audience of children and their families… 5 Sloane Terrace, London SW1X brand new show from the creators of Aliens but without the rude bits! It’s just like a normal 020 7730 4500 www.cadoganhall.com Love Underpants is monsterously good! Follow comedy club, but it’s on in the day, kids are the young inventor Monty as he creates a whole allowed in, and thus there is a higher than usual Until Sun 4 Sep – The Tiger Who world of whacky inventions and incredible chance of heckles like “why is that your face!?” Came to Tea The doorbell rings just as monsters, but now he has made them all how Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. is he going to get rid of them?! This energetic Fri 23 – Sat 24 Sep – Why the Who could it possibly be? What they certainly show full of thrills, spills, magic and mayhem will Whales Came Created by the same don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy delight the whole family – with original music team who brought you the acclaimed and tiger! Packed with oodles of magic, sing-along and plenty of audience participation! Ages 3+ much-loved production of I Believe in Unicorns, songs and clumsy chaos, this is a stunning Why The Whales Came is full of fun, mystery stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime and adventure. Children Gracie and Daniel have The Girl and the Giraffe mayhem… expect to be surprised! A musical play Unicorn Theatre been forbidden to go near the mysterious and adapted and directed by David Wood based on seemingly dangerous Birdman. But messages and the book by Judith Kerr. Ages 3+ 147 Tooley Street, SE1. 020 7645 0560 www.unicorntheatre.com clues intrigue them and, after being lost at sea in the fog and stranded on his tiny island, they begin Little Angel Theatre Wed 7 Sep – Fri 18 Nov - The Duke to unravel the Birdman’s secrets, the villagers’ A new one-man show by Shôn Dale-Jones. The 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross St, N1 fears and superstitions and learn why the whales Duke playfully mixes fantasy and reality, taking came to the island. Ages 7+ 020 7226 1787 www.littleangeltheatre.com Sat 10 Sep – Sun 20 Nov - Emily Rising Emily wakes up one bright autumn morning to find that her feet can’t touch the ground, and no one can understand why. To SPEECH & LANGUAGE THERAPIST For many more local An independent service covering a range of everyone’s surprise Emily keeps rising higher and higher. From sleeping upside-down on her Children’s communication difficulties. ceiling and flying above her school playground, events and diary dates Contact THE NORTHWOOD PRACTICE to soaring over a starry-skied London, Emily’s MRCSLT, HPC adventure is just beginning. Emily discovers a Call 01923 824074 world that looks completely different. She’s not for the whole family visit scared at all – it’s fun being high up. But she’s not coming down… Emily Rising explores themes of www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk growing up, complicated family relationships and To advertise overcoming adversity and is not recommended YOUR BUSINESS with us, for younger children. Ages 7+ call: 01923 237 004 email: Editor@ Families North West London is designed by Lisa Bibby and printed by Warners. Copyright Families North West Magazine 2016. Families North West is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families ® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families North FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk West London are fully protected by copyright and non of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. 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