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IN THIS ISSUE Education, Family Holidays with Skiwear Focus, Children’s Theatre and more…

Plus WIN Tickets to a Tales From the Shed Show at the ! See page 14

Issue 134 January/February 2019 familiesonline.co.uk Welcome to the January/February issue!

CONTACT US: UPCOMING ISSUES Mar/Apr 2019 IN THIS ISSUE: — “Education, 3 Families News House & Home, Families North London 6 Nurseries and Childcare Holiday Camps/ 7 Education Activities and North London 8 Independent School Parties” IN THIS ISSUE Education, Family Holidays with Skiwear Open Days Focus, Children’s Magazine Deadline : Theatre and more… 12 Education Plus WIN Tickets to a Tales 4 February From the Shed Show at the Editor: Karen Konowalchuk Chickenshed! See page 14 2019 12 Family Travel PO Box 74501, Muswell Hill N10 9DZ 14 Children’s Theatre Send in your T: 020 8793 3366 16 What’s On news, stories Issue 134 January/February 2019 familiesonline.co.uk E: [email protected] and advertising 18 Parties, Activities, Clubs and Classes Events/What’s On: bookings to the details left. [email protected] FamiliesNorthLondon FamiliesNthLon FamiliesNorthLondon www.FamiliesNorthLondon.co.uk

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

Families North London is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families North London are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families North London. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families North London; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

2 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk Families News

Wear A Hat Day If you’re looking for a fun activity for the whole family, look no further than Wear A Hat Day. The annual fundraising event takes place on Friday 29th March, 2019 and the Brain Tumour Research charity needs your help to make it the biggest, boldest and hattiest EVER! By taking part in Wear A Hat Day, you will be helping to raise vital funds for research into brain tumours. The disease is indiscriminate and it can affect anyone at any age. What’s more, brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer, yet historically just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease. Register for Wear A Hat Day and your family can help change this; simply go to https:// www.braintumourresearch.org/fundraise/wear-a-hat-day/wear-a-hat-day-registration

Calling all sailors! Spin a Tale during National Bring the family to Storytelling Week Cutty Sark in The first week of February marks National Storytelling Week, a chance to reflect Greenwich for on one of the oldest art forms in the world. We are all immersed in stories — from an action- conversations during which we re-tell events in our lives, to watching our favourite packed day television shows. out on the fastest ship of Speech and language therapists believe that storytelling is vital for children’s its time. academic success as it promotes narrative skills and strengthens the ability of children to correctly sequence ideas. To be a good reader and writer a child needs Meet characters from the ship’s past such as firstly to be a good speaker and listener. Above all though, storytelling is fun. Captain Woodget and the ship’s cook and Whether we are listening to someone else’s story or telling our own, inventing listen to their epic stories about life on board. and adapting narratives can open doors to exciting new worlds — both real and Try and outwit the crew in our Sailors’ imaginary. Challenge game, get your sea legs by taking National Storytelling Week takes place in storytelling clubs, theatres, museums, the helm at the ship’s wheel, follow a family schools, hospitals, spoken word venues, and care homes. trail or take part in regular workshops. To find a local event or to look through its extensive archive, Book now to save 10%: rmg.co.uk/cuttysark visit www.sfs.org.uk

PULL YOUR CHILD AHEAD THIS NEW YEAR

St Andrews CE , 297 Chase Road N14 6JA

5th, 12th, 19th, 26th January and 2nd,9th and 23rd February

Book Your Free Taster Day Plus Perform at the Arts Depot Theatre

FREE assessment on open days. www.leadersarereaders.co.uk Call now to book your place: 01992 651 300

familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 3 Families News

Royal Free Private Patients Unit has Two North London Locations The Private Patients Unit at the Royal Free Hospital is part of the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust. Located in the heart of , the Royal Free London Private Patients Unit combines the convenience, comfort and personalised attention of a private hospital with the very best state-of-the-art services, technology and professional excellence you would expect from a top London teaching hospital. Based on the 12th floor, the Private Patient Unit has a relaxed and friendly environment that is enhanced by a beautiful view. In June 2017, the Royal Free London Private Patients Unit opened a private outpatient, day-case and 23hr care facility which is conveniently situated off Barnet High Street, close to a wealth of shops, restaurants and other local amenities. Boasting eight consulting rooms, a minor treatment room, a dentistry room, an endoscopy suite, a radiology suite and two day case theatres, the new unit provides the very best environment to ensure patients experience the world class care that is synonymous with the Royal Free London. At both locations, each patient is cared for individually and treated with dignity, compassion, kindness and respect. Patients’ experience of care is a key priority and each patient receives the highest possible standards of quality care by efficient and competent staff, clinical and non–clinical. The Royal Free London Private Patients Unit is proud to bring the very best skills and standards of the NHS to the benefit of their private patients and, in doing so, support the continued development of the NHS and the Royal Free London through its success. All money generated from treatments is invested in hospitals and high-quality healthcare services. For more information about procedures, package pricing or to book an appointment at either location, please call a member of the Royal Free team on 020 7317 7751 Tri-Golf Festival for Hackney Youngsters a Huge Success Vibrant Partnerships and Lee Valley Regional Park Authority joined forces with Hackney Council and The Golf Foundation on Wednesday 21 November to host a Tri-Golf Skills Festival for local schoolchildren. Hosted at Queensbridge Sport & Community Centre (E8), more than 80 youngsters from the local area had the opportunity to enjoy a fun, exciting introduction to the sport led by qualified PGA coaches. As well as an introduction to golf itself, the enthusiastic youngsters also benefited from the opportunity to build vital life skills such as respect, teamwork and co-operation. Sessions will be introduced at Lee Valley Golf Course to allow more children to get a taster of the sport, whilst local schools will be provided with the training and resources to enable teachers, coaches and volunteers to spread the programme knowledge within the community. James Hetherington, The Golf and Accommodation Manger at Vibrant Partnerships said: “Vibrant Partnerships and Lee Valley Regional Park Authority were delighted to support the London Borough of Hackney Council’s Tri-Golf Festival. It’s vital for children to have access and engage in new sporting activities that they may not otherwise have the opportunity to experience. The Tri-Golf Festival provided the children with the opportunity to develop skills for life within a fun environment. We hope this is just a first of many golfing events in and around the borough.” For more information on Lee Valley Regional Park Authority and the Lee Valley Golf Course visit visitleevalley.org.uk/golf. Raising Confident Children with Perform Sara has two children, Honor (8) and James (6) who have both been attending Perform classes since they were 4 years old. “I’ve always wanted my children to feel confident speaking in pubic and chatting to all sorts of people. I think these are essential life skills these days” says Sara. Sara was drawn to Perform because of its focus on developing confidence and self-esteem in a fun way. “It’s not a pushy stage school” she explains. “Each week, the classes focus on a topic like manners, making eye contact or introducing themselves, but this is wrapped up in a highly engaging way in the context of drama and songs.” “Since my children started attending Perform, other parents frequently remark on their confidence and how well they speak in school assemblies. I’m really impressed with how they chat to adults in places like shops and restaurants.” Classes at Perform are small with two teachers per class. “The teachers are professional actors with amazing energy and enthusiasm. They go out of their way to understand and engage every child” reports Sara. Perform offers a FREE no-obligation dance or drama class in Barnsbury, , Bounds Green, Crouch End, , East Finchley, Finchley, Finsbury Park, Friern Barnet, Hampstead, Highbury, Islington, Mill Hill, Muswell Hill, North Finchley, , St Johns Wood, Southgate, Stoke Newington, Swiss Cottage, Totteridge Village, and Tufnell. Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book.

4 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk Nurseries & Childcare

Nannies and Child-minders: the Same or Different? By Sarah-Jane Butler There is sometimes a perception that a nanny is superior to a child-minder. After all, a child-minder looks after your child alongside others in their home, whereas a nanny is personal to you, works in your home and, unless you have a nanny share, looks solely after your child and, often, your house as well. Child-minders must be Ofsted registered and have certain childcare qualifications. Some nannies may have higher level qualifications than child-minders, such as an NNEB Level 3 in Childcare or a Childcare Degree. However, many actually have no qualifications at all and, in some cases, little experience either. Unlike child-minders, nannies are not regulated and don’t have to be registered or have any qualifications. All a nanny needs in order to care for children is a DBS (formerly CRB) check and even that doesn’t have to be up to date. A good nanny agency will ensure that your nanny has the right qualifications and/or experience and is appropriately screened. However, the rise of internet search sites often drives parents to find a nanny online in order to avoid agency fees. Unsuitable nannies can therefore slip through the net and may be much cheaper than a child-minder. Many parents also pay their nannies cash in hand without accounting to HMRC for the tax and national insurance they owe, so the savings overall may seem substantial. Do remember though that not paying tax or NIC is illegal and can carry substantial penalties if discovered. Not only that, but it unfairly deprives your nanny of any state benefits in the future. If you decide to employ a nanny, do make sure she has the right skills, experience and/or qualifications. However much money you save, there is really no advantage in 1:1 care in your own home if the nanny you employ is inadequate or unsuited to the job.

Sarah-Jane Butler is CEO and founder of Parental Choice, a one stop shop for advice and guidance on all your childcare needs, including payroll and employment contracts for nannies.

For more information, please visit www.parentalchoice.co.uk

Not So ‘Free Childcare’ Most parents are paying to access the government’s 30 hours ‘free’ childcare scheme, according to research for the Department of Education. The research confirms that 56% of parents are paying charges for additional items or activities when accessing the 30 hours offer. The majority of charges are for meals, snacks and other refreshments, while charges for special activities such as music, gym lessons or outings are less common, as are charges for consumables such as sun tan lotion. Almost half of parents said that they had seen restrictions placed on when they could use the hours or that they had to be taken at times specified by the provider. Additionally, the research found that 39% of providers reported a reduction in their profit due to the 30 hours scheme while 25% of providers said that they had moved from either making a profit to breaking even or even making a loss. More info at www.pre-school.org.uk/news

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

familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 5 Education

Kilburn Grange School awarded “Good’ Ofsted grading. Kilburn Grange School is a two form entry, primary free school based in Brent. It opened in September 2015 with its first year of children and their families. In July 2018, the School was delighted that Ofsted officially ratified their own judgement by awarding a “Good” grading. The School has built a caring school community where the ethos ‘WE CARE” (Wonder, Enjoy, Collaborate, Aspire, Reflect, Endeavour) is evident. “At Kilburn Grange School children are at the heart of everything in order for them to: Learn; Enjoy; and Succeed.” As the School moves towards full capacity, Headteacher Sonia Mallick’s aim is to ensure that Kilburn Grange School becomes an even bigger part of the local community and, further, becomes the school of first choice among local parents. The school welcomes children and their parents for weekly tours and ‘Stay and Play’ sessions. “Kilburn Grange school has very friendly, approachable, kind and helpful teachers. I am very impressed with my daughter’s learning and development. Love the personal approach to each child’s’ needs and learning. Very impressed, great school, great learning!!!!” Parent quote. Kilburn Grange has limited in-year spaces currently available. https://www.kilburngrangeschool.org.uk Actions Speak Louder than Words at St Anthony’s School for Girls There is a great deal of suffering in our world. Sadly this is something children are accustomed to; they are growing up exposed to images of natural and man-made disasters alike, but it is of the utmost importance that we do not allow our children to believe that this is the norm. It is vital that we do not allow children to believe that they are powerless in the face of disaster, and that these events are happening in a world separate to theirs. Empowering children to believe that they can help that they can make a difference is a priority at St Anthony’s School for Girls. The School firmly believes that this philosophy should be a focus for all. It is not a case of holding lessons in empathy, or teaching children about charity, but ensuring that these principles are embedded in the education the children receive. This allows children to learn about these principles directly, but also to subconsciously soak up the message in a meaningful way. St Anthony’s commitment to this is demonstrated by the school mission statement: Actions speak louder than words. Donal Brennan, Head Master, St Anthony’ School for Girls, Ivy House, Hampstead. Hendon Prep announces additional Reception class for September 2019 Hendon Prep, the oversubscribed independent school in the leafy North London suburb of Hendon, is delighted to announce that, due to an increase in demand for places at 4+, they will be launching a second Reception class for September 2019 and are currently still taking applications for these extra places. Established in 1873, Hendon Prep is a co-educational with a long and enviable record of academic attainment; preparing their pupils to move onto some of the most selective senior schools in the country at 11+ for girls and, historically, 13+ for boys. Every child is different and at Hendon Prep they celebrate individuality. Their personalised approach to learning ensures that every child’s talents are nurtured and that all of their educational needs are supported. “Children learn best when they feel safe and valued” says Headmaster Mark Lloyd-Williams “The environment we have created at Hendon Prep encourages independence, confidence and enthusiasm. We are very proud of the fact that our pupils engage enthusiastically with knowledge and that our school’s broad and creative curriculum ensures our children are stimulated and extended beyond their years. We are also delighted that, with the addition of an extra Reception class in September 2019, we will be able to reduce our waiting lists and give more children the opportunity to fulfil their potential”. State boarding school offers Boarding Taster Weekends One of the most prestigious state Grammar schools in the country is holding Boarding Taster Weekends for primary school boys in Year 5 and Year 6 across London and the Home Counties, in order to help parents with their school choices. Founded in 1656, Haberdashers’ Adams in Newport, Shropshire, is one of just nine selective state grammar schools in the whole of the country to offer boarding for boys aged 11-18. There is no charge for the education so boarding at Adams becomes a more affordable and attractive option for just £3,850 a term. Pupils achieve high academic results with around 98% of students progressing onto many of the top UK universities around the country, including Oxford and Cambridge. To register your interest in boarding contact Caroline Cheal/ Sonya Wilson, Haberdashers’ Adams Tel: (01952) 953823 or visit the school’s website www.adamsgs.uk to find our more and to complete an online enquiry form.

6 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk Education

Should You Help with Homework? When your children settle down to do homework, do you keep close tabs on them and routinely offer to help? Or is your approach more hand’s off? Researchers from Finland have found that although most homework assistance aims at helping the child, one approach is much better at instilling persistence. The study looked at children aged from 8 to 11 years and found that when parents offered opportunities for their child to work independently that the child demonstrated an increased ability to work persistently on his or her school assignments when tested 12 months later. However, when parents provided concrete assistance to their child, the less task-persistent the child’s behaviour later became. This in turn, made parents offer more and more help. “One possible explanation is that when a parent gives a child the opportunity to do homework autonomously, development of skills. If, however, a parent’s homework this sends out a message that they believe in their child’s skills assistance involves plenty of concrete help, the child will work and capabilities. This, in turn, makes the child believe in him less persistently, leading to poorer development of skills. or herself, and in his or her skills and capabilities,” Associate It is important for parents to take their child’s needs into Professor, Jaana Viljaranta from the University of Eastern consideration when offering homework assistance. Of course, Finland explained. parents should offer concrete help when their child clearly needs Similarly, concrete homework assistance—especially if not it. However, concrete help is not something that should be made requested by a child—may send out a message that a parent automatically available in every situation – only when needed,” doesn’t believe in their child’s ability to do their homework. Viljaranta said. When a parent offers the child an opportunity for autonomous More info at www.sciencedaily.com working, the child will work persistently, which leads to better

We are a two form entry primary school, with limited in year spaces currently available. Weekly Tours – every Wednesday at 2.30pm. Stay and Play - Fridays 9-10am until the end of term “The school’s approach to developing smart brains along with caring hearts and broadened minds is impressive and commendable.”—Parent

Telephone: 0207 504 0547 Web: www.kilburngrangeschool.org.uk Email: [email protected] T: @KilburnGrangeSc F: facebook.com/kilburngrangeschool

Kilburn Grange School, Priory Park Road, London NW6 7UJ familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 7 Education Independent Schools Open Days

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

Abercorn School NW8 The School NW3 Boys and Girls 2 ½ - 13 yrs Boys and Girls 6 – 13 yrs Open Day: Fri 25 Jan, Wed 27 Feb, both 9.15am Open days: By appointment 8www.abercornschool.com (020 7100 4335 8www.academyschoolhampstead.com (020 7435 6621 The American School in London NW8 Annemount Nursery and Pre-Preparatory School N2 Boys and Girls 4-18 yrs Boys and Girls 3-7 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open day: By appointment 8www.asl.org (020 7449 1200 8www.annemount.co.uk (020 8455 2132 Arnold House School NW8 Belmont School NW7 Boys 5-13 yrs Boys and Girls 7-13 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open Day: By appointment 8www.arnoldhouse.co.uk (020 7266 4840 8www.millhill.org.uk/belmont (020 8906 7290 Cavendish School NW1 N6 Girls 3-11yrs, Boys 3-7 yrs Girls 4-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open Day: By appointment 8www.cavendishschool.co.uk (020 7485 1958 8www.channing.co.uk (020 8340 2338 Devonshire House School NW3 Dwight School N11/12 Boys & Girls 2½–13 yrs Boys and Girls 2-18 yrs Open Day: Wed 23 Jan, Thu 24 Jan, both 9.45-11.30am Open Day: By appointment 8www.devonshirehouseschool.co.uk (020 7435 1916 8www.dwightlondon.org (020 8920 0637 Francis Holland School NW1 Goodwyn School NW7 Girls 4-18 yrs Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open Day: By appointment 8www.fhs-nw1.org.uk (020 7723 0176 8www.goodwyn-school.co.uk (020 8959 3756 Grange Park Prep School N21 Grimsdell School NW7 Boys & Girls 3-11 yrs Boys and Girls 3-7 yrs Open Day: Tue 8 Jan, Tue 5 Feb both 9.30am Open Day: Tours on Tue/Wed 9-10am 8www.gpps.org.uk (020 8360 4869 8www..millhill.org.uk/grimsdell (020 8959 6884 The Hall School NW3 Hendon Prep School NW4 Boys 4-13 yrs Boys and Girls 2-13 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open Day: Thu 31 Jan 8www.hallschool.co.uk (020 7449 6918 8www.hendonprep.co.uk (020 8203 7727 Hampstead NW3 N6 Boys 4-13 yrs Boys and Girls 3-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open Day: By appointment 8www.herewardhouse.co.uk (020 7794 4820 8www.highgateschool.org.uk (020 8347 3564 Keble Prep School N21 Kilburn Grange School NW6 Boys 4-13 yrs Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open Day: By appointment 8www.kebleprep.co.uk (020 8360 3359 8www.kilburngrangeschool.org.uk (020 7504 0547 King Alfred School NW11 Lyndhurst House School NW3 Boys and Girls 4-18 yrs Boys 4-13 yrs Open Day: Thu 24 Jan(Upper Sch) Thu 21 Feb(Lower Sch); 9.30-11am Open Day: Thu 14 Feb, 9.30-11am 8www.kingalfred.org.uk (020 8457 5285 8www.lyndhursthouse.co.uk (020 7435 4936 Lyonsdown Prep School EN5 Norfolk House School N10 Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs Boys and Girls 4-11 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open Day: By appointment 8www.lyonsdownschool.co.uk (020 8449 0225 8www.norfolkhouseschool.org (020 8883 4584 North Bridge House School NW1/3 North London Rudolf Steiner School N8 Boys and Girls 2yrs 9mnths - 18 yrs Boys and Girls 0-7 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open Day: Tue 22 Jan, 1.30- 3pm 8www.northbridgehouse.com (020 7267 6266 8www.rudolfsteiner.london.sch.uk (020 8341 3770 St Anthony’s School NW3 St Anthony’s School for Girls NW11 Boys 4-13 yrs Girls 4-13 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open Day: Thursdays, by appointment, 10-11am 8www.stanthonysprep.org.uk (020 7431 1066 8www.stanthonysprep.org.uk (020 7431 1066 St Margaret’s School Hampstead NW3 Mount House School EN4 Girls 4-16 yrs Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open Day: By appointment 8www.st-margarets.co.uk (020 7435 2439 8www.mounthouse.org.uk (020 8449 6889 St Martin’s School Mill Hill NW7 St Paul’s Steiner School N1 Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs Boys and Girls 3-14 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open Day: By appointment 8www.stmartinsmillhill.co.uk (020 8959 1965 8www.stpaulssteinerschool.org (020 7226 4454 Salcombe Prep School N14 Sarum Hall School Girls NW3 Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs 3-11 yrs Open Day: Thu 24 Jan, 9.15am Open Day: By appointment 8www.salcombeprep.co.uk (020 8441 5356 8www.sarumhallschool.co.uk (020 7794 2261 High School NW3 University College School NW3 Girls 4-18 yrs 4-18 yrs Open Day: By appointment Open Day: By appointment 8www.shhs.gdst.net (020 7435 2899 8www.ucs.org.uk (020 7722 4433

8 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk Education

A nurturing, caring and stimulating environment for girls to fl ourish

Ivy House,

Hampstead Outstanding Provider ACHIEVE Tel: 020 3869 3070 AT ST. ANTHONY’S SCHOOL www.stanthonysgirls.co.uk

11362-APG-St Anthonys School for Girls-Ad refresh.indd 2 30/11/2018 13:09

“The school creates a harmonious and achieving ethos, where pupils feel very well cared for and enjoy their education.” SIS Inspection

Inspiring young minds.

• Outstanding pastoral care Come and see what a Hendon Prep • A broad and creative curriculum education has to offer your child. • Personalised learning Book your private tour today. • Impressive senior school offers Call 020 8203 7727 Independent coeducational day school and Pre-School for children from 2.5 - 13 .

www.hendonprep.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 9 Education

Is Tutoring a thing of the past for London Children? We asked Yellowbird education to comment and tell us what they think.. Tutoring in London has become the acceptable norm for many families, choosing to supplement often expensive education with further fees. Demand for oversubscribed school places in the capital has forced parents to throw yet more resources into hopefully securing their child a place in a top London school. When the North London Girls Consortium (comprising 12 Heads of London’s most popular girls schools) announced that from 2019 they are updating 11+ exam processes quoting “There will be no further written assessments at our Schools, and we will develop the creativity of our interview processes” parents were left bemused and floundering asking rightly, so now what can we do to secure a place? Is excessive tutoring a thing of the past? For a large number, this decision has come not a day to late. Children have been exposed to mounting pressure to prepare for challenging admissions tests and many believe such academic grooming is potentially damaging to their mental well being at such a young age. With many top schools replacing written assessments in the selection process with more creative methods of interviewing children what does it mean for the future of those responsible for tutoring London’s children? Furthermore, is the newly named London 11+ Consortium the first to make a brave step with other schools, including State Grammar schools, soon to follow, leaving excessive tutoring a thing of the past? Tutoring is about providing specific support for children We would argue that the term ‘tutoring’ is not limited solely to preparing children for aggressive admission examinations. Tutoring for many is invaluable, providing tailored and specialist support in specific areas of learning and often for short periods of time. In busy classrooms there may not be the chance for a child to get the extra support at exactly the right time. In these circumstances securing the support of an experienced tutor can be vital in maintaining a child’s confidence. Tutoring is also available in many different forms. The traditional 1:1 can clearly be beneficial in the case of addressing areas where a child requires specific support. However, there are increasingly available group learning opportunities and whilst less tailored are nevertheless all aimed at equipping children with key skills and most importantly growing a child’s confidence. Many such courses are becoming available during lengthy school holidays and provide fun and engaging opportunities for children to practice learnt skills and work on developing new ideas. So whilst some London Heads are clearly looking to reduce the scope for tutoring, it is possible to argue tutoring in the true sense is now more important than ever, providing children with a new set of skills with which to shine and gain entry into top schools. What can companies like Yellowbird do for your child? The Team at Yellowbird Education supports this view believing that school admissions are undoubtedly changing, but tutoring in all its guises still has a large part to play. Their experienced educational specialists run hugely popular group workshops that are interactive and forward thinking with a fresh approach looking to offer lively engaging sessions for children of all abilities. The focus is on inspiring children and encouraging creative minds whilst giving children the confidence to think differently. As such, creative writing becomes far more importantly a life long skill rather than a means to passing grueling examinations. So whilst schools and their entrance processes are changing, tutoring is similarly adapting and changing alongside. Carefully structured support is now being used to build confidence and motivation and enlighten children to the joy of learning – a valuable asset for whichever educational journey they choose to take at whichever school they finally gain entry into! Yellowbird Education – Educational Workshops – Now available in North London. www.yellowbirdeducation.com

10 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk

Untitled-2 1 27/09/2018 16:34 Education

Options for By Andrew Campbell Choosing the right school for your child can be an incredibly stressful experience, which is probably why the topic of schools and education in general, gives rise to such intense and heated debate between groups of parents. What is the right type of school for your child? Should you choose a selective or non-selective school? Single sex or co-ed? Should your child go to the nearest school, which is within walking distance, or to a school that’s further away but considered to be better? Can you afford to consider private education and would it suit you and your family? For the last two years of primary school, discussions on these topics can be endless and can cause huge anxiety, particularly in areas where school places are in demand and competition is tough. Many areas of the country are fortunate to have many schools that are rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted. However, wherever you are, it’s likely that you’ll have different types of state school, and possible that some of these may be academically selective. It’s a good idea to be aware of the different types of school before you start considering which particular school might suit your child. Academies Academies are publicly funded schools which operate outside of local authority control. Academies have more freedom than community schools over their finances, curriculum and pay and conditions for teachers, so these schools can spend their money on what they consider to be important. They are funded directly by government, rather than the local council, and can set their own admissions criteria. Whilst academies do not have to follow the national curriculum, they must be seen to be offering a “broad and balanced” education. Community Schools Community schools are owned by, funded and run by the local authority. These schools are non-selective and their admission criteria are set by the local authority. Free Schools Free schools are the newest type of school. These can be set up by groups of parents, teachers, charities, trusts, religious and voluntary groups. Their day to day running is often provided by an “education provider” – a group or company brought in by the group setting up the school. However, the provider is not allowed to make a profit from running the school. Free schools are set up as academies and are funded in the same way – directly from central government. Selective Schools These can be independent (private) schools or state schools. They require certain criteria, usually academic, to be met by a child, before he or she is offered a place. Academic criteria for selective state secondary schools are usually judged on the results of an exam or test such as the 11+ in counties such as Buckinghamshire and Kent. Entry criteria for selective independent schools is also generally academic but some independent schools offer places based on performance in sport or achievement in some other area of the curriculum, such as music and the arts. The admission process to senior independent schools also often includes an interview with the child and a report from his or her previous school. So now you have the basics, the next step on your journey is to visit the schools you are considering. Talk to the head teachers, where possible, but most importantly, talk to the pupils. Secondary school age students are more than capable of articulating what they like or dislike about their school and are likely to be more honest than almost anyone else!

familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 11 Family Travel

One Stop Family Ski Wear As the only specialist ski wear shop in North West London, The Skiwear Service, have a reputation for providing unparalleled quality of service and expert advice, allowing customers to kit the whole family out from head to toe in one easy visit. Owner Gillian Levy was inspired to open the West Hampstead shop after experiencing frustration in obtaining ski wear easily for her children. The shop consists of three fabulous showrooms, including one solely dedicated to children’s ski wear. A range of product lines are stocked, including many entry-level items. A trip to the Skiwear Service will provide a warm, personal shopping experience, during which Gillian and her team will assist each member of your family in selecting comfortable ski-wear and accessories. “Normally we would focus on the children first’, Gillian explains. “We would advise on three necessary layers, outerwear of a ski jacket (which could double as a winter coat) with ski trousers; a mid-layer light fleece; and then the base, thermal layers. We would then move onto necessary accessories, including gloves, goggles and snow boots. It is essential that every skier, including each child, has the proper eye protection.” The shop stocks handy little extras to make holidays as smooth as possible, such as sunscreen sticks allowing easy reapplying during ski school sessions, and glove clips to prevent lost ski gloves. “My biggest pleasure is knowing that a family is properly prepared for their trip”, says Gillian. “We will advise what is truly necessary, and many items purchased can have dual use”. The Skiwear Service is open Wednesday – Sunday 10am-5:30pm (5pm on Sundays). 31–35 Road, London NW6 1DU www.skiwearservice.co.uk

Holidays with a Difference By Claire Winter Are you fed up with package or resort-based holidays? Why not try some of these quirky suggestions for a short break or alternative summer holiday destination.

Go on a Cretan Adventure This beautiful island is a fabulous family holiday destination with an ancient culture, excellent cuisine, and all-but-guaranteed sunshine. Kids will love learning about the island’s past on a simulated archeological dig and will learn to care about its future too when visiting a sea turtle nesting habitat with a local conservationist to hear about the threats these endangered species face. Other days are spent trying diving, paddle boarding, snorkelling to shipwrecks and even Cretan dancing, all while staying in a beach-side apartment with a swimming pool. Prices start from £899 per adult and £849 per child, including seven nights’ B&B accommodation, one lunch, one dinner, and guided activities. Depart 29 June, 27 July or 17 August 2019. More info at www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

Try Treehouse Life The Garden Village in Slovenia is a beautiful eco-village of treehouses, glamping tents, Finnish Sauna, Massage Pavillion and a garden, which supplies the on-site restaurant with fruit and vegetables. The tree houses are raised cabins with two levels and have indoor nets to lounge about on, kitchenettes and bathrooms. The wooden-floor pier tents are by a stream and fishpond, while glamping tents have a mezzanine level, bathrooms, TV and hot tub. Lake Bled, which offers a vast array of activities, is just a short walk away. Treehouses are expensive in peak season (€360 a night) but tree tents which sleep four and have shared bathrooms/toilet facilities, are less at €260 a night. More info at www.gardenvillagebled.com

12 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk Family Travel

Hit the Road Why not discover Europe in a camper van? The UK’s largest VW camper van hire company Campervantastic is based in Forest Hill, south-east London, just over an hour from the Channel Tunnel and south-east ferry ports. Staff are experienced in catering for a variety of European adventure tours; you could explore the Alps, cycle in the Dordogne or explore vineyards in Bordeaux. You can hire out the relevant equipment, such as bike racks and wine storage to suit your plans. Some of the campers have electrically powered pop-up roofs, bike racks, comfortable beds, folding picnic table, satnavs, and media ports. They also have a Mercedes Marco Polo campervan for hire and will have the brand new Grand California Motorhome available in the Spring of 2019. Prices start from £910 a week in July. More info at www.campervantastic.co.uk

Choose Quirky Locations There are many quirky locations from castles to islands that offer accommodation in the UK and further afield. Why not experience lighthouse life in Norfolk? Boasting extensive sea and inland views, this Grade II listed former lighthouse keeper’s cottage built in 1791, offers visitors a unique coastal location adjoining Happisburgh’s working lighthouse. Within a short drive of the Norfolk Broads, Lighthouse Cottage is ideally situated for rural, and beach walks. Prices £1171 for seven nights’ self- catered accommodation arriving 13th July 2019. It sleeps five in two bedrooms, with two pets welcome. Visit www.cottages.com for more info and booking. You could also try a fantastic converted Railway Carriage in west Somerset. The carriage is 100 years old and has recently been refurbished. Once upon a time, it was a Great Western Railway camping coach. Today it sits in a quiet siding at the Blue Anchor station on the West Somerset Railway line. It is a working railway - so guests beware! But situation wise, everything is on the doorstep, and it’s a short walk to Minehead’s sand and shingle beach. The carriage sleeps six and costs start at £715 a week in the summer. More info at www.lovecottages.co.uk

Discover Belgium and Holland These family-friendly destinations offer clean, wide beaches and an easy journey time. They’re a short flight or a 35-minute tunnel crossing away. Both countries are small, varied and easy to get around. Little Clogs Holidays offer baby and toddler-friendly breaks in holiday parks and glamping farm holidays. Families can explore a wide range of toddler- friendly theme parks, water parks, and zoos as well as magical woodland trails, sand dunes and playgrounds on the beach. Prices start at £ 818 per family for a week in the summer holidays. More at www.little-clogs-holidays.co.uk

How about a House Swap? A house swap can be a great way of exploring the world and cutting holiday costs. You lend your home to another family, while you live in theirs. All you have to do is buy your flights or ferry ticket. You do need to clean and tidy your home so another family can live it. You also have to empty some cupboards and drawers for their clothes and leave a manual about the house. You can negotiate to swap cars and look after each other’s pets too. Try Love Home Swap (www.lovehomeswap.com) or Home Exchange (www. homeexchange.com).

familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 13 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 24 Feb – The Amazing Bubble Man Louis explores the breath taking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and The Amazing Bubble Man, artistry with audience participation and enough spellbinding bubble tricks. Ages 4+. Chickenshed Southgate, N14 020 8292 9222 www.chickenshed.org.uk Fri 18 Jan and every Fri (ex Fri 22 Feb) – Planet Play Welcome to a magical world of sensory learning, wonder and exploration for babies and toddlers aged 0-3 years! Fri 18 Jan/ Sat 19 Jan and every Friday/Saturday, plus additional shows in half term from Weds 20 to Sat 23 Feb - Tales from the Shed Vibrant, interactive theatre shows that are perfect for young children. They are informal, lively and amazingly engaging as the performers and audience share the same space! 0-6 year olds. Artsdepot 5 Nether Street, Dugdale Theatre North Finchley, N12 39 London Road, 020 8369 5454 Enfield, EN2 www.artsdepot.co.uk 020 8807 6680 www.dugdalecentre.co.uk Sun 20 Jan – Comedy Club for Kids Just like a normal comedy club, but it’s on in the day, kids are allowed in, and thus there is a Sat 16 to Sun 17 Feb – Wow! It’s Night Time The curious little higher than usual chance of heckles like “why is that your face!?”. owl is back, and this time she’s ready to discover the wonders of Ages 6+. night-time, from the big, bright moon to the bats in the sky and the foxes deep in the forest. Presented by Sun 27 Jan – The Big ENORMOUS Present A mysterious present this is a stunning adaption of Tim Hopgood’s sequel. Ages 2-5. has appeared in the school playground. Who can it possibly be for? Jack, Dot or Polly? What could be waiting inside? Ages 3 - 8. Half Moon Theatre Sun 3 Feb – Jack and the Beanstalk Expect lots of surprises 43 White Horse Road, and beautiful images as Patrick Lynch (from Cbeebies) tells the London E1 gripping story of Jack who sells his cow for 5 magic beans and 020 7709 8900 finds himself in the land above the clouds. Ages 3+. www.halfmoon.org.uk Sun 10 Feb – Circle in the Sand With no words, and Fri 25 to Sat 26 Jan – Susannah and the Sunflower Susannah accompanied by an evocative soundtrack of world music, this is dreams of creating the most beautiful flower garden but nothing an intimate, imaginative and captivating show, providing the seems to grow. With the help of some magic seeds from the perfect introduction to theatre for the very young. Ages 0-3. wizard, Susannah sets out on a fantastical shadow adventure, Sat 16 – Thu 21 Feb We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Join our intrepid following in the footsteps of Jack and the Beanstalk. Ages 3-8. family of adventurers and their musical dog on a quest to find Sat 16 Feb – Mole and Gecko: The Show Mole and Gecko is an a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, interactive rap musical that you (the audience) help create, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! featuring live songs, rap stories, and instant poems. Ages 5+. Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes, plenty of adventure and a few surprises along the way. Based on the much-loved book Sat 23 Feb – If all the World Were Paper One adventure picture by Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury. Ages 3+. playground. One big task. One friendship. Two grandads. Two paintbrushes. Two very different ways of doing things. A hilarious Fri 22 Feb – Pub Quiz for Kids Fantastic fun for the whole family and poignant new play about falling out, making up and the joy together. Prepare for quick-fire competition, lots of laughs and of true friendship. Ages 3-6. very few prizes. Ages 5+.

COMPETITION WIN Four tickets to see a Tales From the Shed Show at the Chickenshed Theatre in Southgate! There are a number of Chicken Foot Prints hidden throughout this magazine. To WIN find them all and count how many, then enter the answer at http://bit.ly/chickenshedFam19 The prize is four general admission tickets to a performance of the winners’ choice, subject to availability, but on or before 9 March 2019. The winner will be selected by random draw of all entries with email addresses, full names and addresses. Entries from the UK only. Entries will not be accepted after the closing date of Sunday 10 February 2019. The winner will be contacted by email within 48 hours of the giveaway ending, and will need to collect tickets from the box office in good time before the start of the performance. The decision will be final.

14 Families North London familiesonline.co.uk Children’s Theatre

Jacksons Lane Fri 8 Feb – Sun 7 April – Prince Charming Holed up in his bed, 269a Archway Road, Prince Charming is making a list of his worries – from being struck by lightning or getting stuck in quicksand to the problem London, N6 of his unfortunate name. Somebody needs to come to our 020 8341 4421 Prince’s rescue. Ages 6-11. www.jacksonslane.org.uk Sat 10 Feb – Out of the Hat, Long Nose Puppets When Doris Millfield Theatre and Delilah find something stranger and sparkly has fallen from London, N18 the sky, they’re inspired to put on the world’s greatest magic 020 8807 6680 show! Ages 3-9. www.millfieldtheatre.co.uk Wed 20 to Sat 24 Feb – Hotel Paradiso, Lost in Translation Fri 11 to Sun 27 Jan Moana and Her Incredible Friends Mona Circus Hilarious physical comedy mixes with spectacular circus, and the one, the only - Maui, would like to invite you and your compelling storytelling and side-splitting slapstick! Age 10+ family to join their Incredible Friends on the beautiful Island of Motunui for the celebrations of the Aloha Festival! All ages. Little Angel Theatre 14 Dagmar Passage, Puppet Theatre Barge Cross St, N1 Little Venice W9, 020 7226 1787 020 7429 6876 www.littleangeltheatre.com www.puppetbarge.com Weds 9 to Sun 27 Jan – The Singing Mermaid Through beautiful Sat 5 Jan to Sun 14 April – My Shadow and Me My Shadow and puppetry and performance, Little Angel Theatre collaborate Me is like a cartoon created live out of nothing but darkness and once again with Royal & Derngate, to bring Julia Donaldson and light. One person (and his shadow) meet and go on an incredible, Lydia Monks’s enormously popular story to life. Ages 3 – 8. imaginative, shadowy journey where creatures emerge, engage and transform beautifully. All Ages. Wed 30 Jan to Sun 3 Feb – Rise And Fall Forever expanding and contracting, balloons are free to float, fly and sway. Hold Sat 09 Feb to Sun 24 March – The Town Mouse and the your breath and go sailing away. This a poetic and intriguing Country Mouse These two famous mouse cousins take it in turns performance for young audiences about holding on and letting to visit one another. Each mouse ends up much the wiser as a go. Ages 3-6. result of their exciting adventures. A delight for young and old, told with rod puppets, music and sing- along songs. All Ages. Weds 6 to Sun 10 Feb – The Selfish Giant This show explores an unusual friendship, and how even the grumpiest giant’s heart can melt when Spring finally comes. Powerful storytelling, captivating puppetry, beautiful design, enchanting music and a sprinkling of magic! Ages 3-8.

‘Quite simply, the best family show I’ve seen’ Sky Arts

Based on the much-loved picture book LIVE ON by Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury STAGE

SAT 16 - THU 21 FEB BOOK NOW 020 8369 5454 North Finchley artsdepot.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 15 What’s On Listings for all the family We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check before setting out.

Fri 18- Sun 20 Jan JANUARY London Model Engineering Exhibition at FEBRUARY Fri 11 Jan Until March 2019 Alexandra Palace (N22) Full spectrum of Sun 3 Feb Exhibition: Black Georgian Londoners model engineering from steam locomotives Kindertransport by Diane Samuels Rehearsed -Portraits, People and Perceptions at the and traction engines through to modern Reading at the Jewish Museum (NW1) 5-8pm, Bruce Castle Museum (N17) Weds – Sun, 1-5pm. gadgets including trucks, boats, aeroplanes and Tickets £15 (£10 for conc) 8 helicopters. Tickets £12.65 (conc from £3.65) 8 Free entry www.haringey.gov.uk/libraries- 8 jewishmuseum.org.uk sport-and-leisure/culture-and-entertainment/ www.alexandrapalace.com visiting-haringey/bruce-castle-museum/about- Sat 19 Jan – Sun 31 May Mon 4 Feb to Fri 1 March bruce-castle Bringing the Walls to Life at the Dugdale (EN2) Children of Estate (EN2) Historical Free exhibition by Alex McHallam using images Fri 11 Jan and every Fri Exhibition, Free entry. 8 from Broomfield House’s Lanscroon murals. Under 5’s at (NW3) Friday’s www.fortyhallestate.co.uk 8www.dugdalecentre.co.uk during term time, families with under 5’s can join in our craft making, storytelling, and sing- Sun 20 Jan & Sun 17 Feb Thurs 7 Feb alongs. £2 per child. Family Barn Dance at Cecil Sharp House (NW1) Talkies Community Cinema at the Dugdale 8www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/ No unaccompanied children or adults and under (EN2) Showing of the Piano, 7.45pm, £6.50 per kenwood/ 5s partnered by an adult! Tickets £7 adult, £5 child, £2 under 2s. 8www.cecilsharphouse.org ticket. 8www.dugdalecentre.co.uk Fri 11 Jan Fri 8 Feb Absolute Bowie at the O2 Academy Islington Sun 20 Jan Gardening Morning at Stephens House (N3) Patrick Monahan Goals at the Dugdale (EN2) (N1) From 6pm, tickets from £15. Brand new stand-up comedy show, 7.45pm, £14 8www.gigantic.com/absolute-bowie-o2- Help Maintain the beautiful gardens, 10:30- 8 per ticket. 8www.dugdalecentre.co.uk academy-islington-2019-01-11-18-00 1pm. www.stephenshouseandgardens.com/ Fri 8 & Sat 9 Feb Fri 11 Jan to 2 Feb Weds 23 and Fri 25 Jan Mark Watson & Sofie Hagen Try out New Jokes Luke Jermay: INTUITION at the Arts Depot London International Mime Festival at (N12) 7.30pm, phenomenal jaw-dropping (N6) Consisting of four shows and Stories at the Pleasance (N7) 8pm, tickets £5. 8www.pleasance.co.uk demonstrations of telepathy and prediction. and seven workshops. Age guidance: 14+, tickets from £12. 8 8www.artsdepot.co.uk www.jacksonslane.org.uk Fri 25 Jan Archives in Focus at the Dugdale (EN2) Sat 9 Feb Sat 12 Jan Monthly tours of Enfield Local Studies and A night of Mowwtown at the Islington Archive Centre, 10am-11am, tickets £3. Mark Thomas: Check Up- Our NHS@70 at the Assembly Hall (N1) From 7pm, tickets from £15. 8www.dugdalecentre.co.uk Arts Depot (N12) 7.30pm. Comedy event, Age 8www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-night-of-motown- guidance: 16+, tickets from £12. 8www.artsdepot.co.uk 60th-anniversary-tickets-49127073399 Sat 26 Jan & Sat 23 Feb Saturday Arts Clubs at the Dugdale (EN2) Calligraphy Workshop at Forty Hall (EN2) 11am- Sat 12 Jan & Sun 10 Feb 10:30-11am, 11am-11:30am & 11.30- 12 noon. £1 3pm, Tickets £45 includes all materials. Forty Hall Through the Lens at Forty Hall (EN2) per child. 8www.dugdalecentre.co.uk 8www.fortyhallestate.co.uk An informal photography walk plus advice, 10am, -1pm, ages 18+ Tickets £30. Colour Therapy with Patrick Samuel at the King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys at the 8www.fortyhallestate.co.uk Dugdale (EN2) 1-3pm, Ages 16+, £10 per ticket. Dugdale (EN2). Music from the renowned band, 8www.dugdalecentre.co.uk 7.45pm, tickets £21. 8www.dugdalecentre.co.uk Sun 6 Jan & Sun 3 Feb Family Craft at Kenwood House (NW3) Families Sat 26 Jan Sat 9 Feb to Sun 31 March will get to work together to try out different art Excursions 2019 at Alexandra Palace (N22) An Urban Sketchers View at Forty Hall (EN2) and crafts whilst exploring the house. 12pm- Travel trade event. Ink Drawing Exhibition, Free Entry. 4pm. £2 per child 8www.alexandrapalace.com 8www.fortyhallestate.co.uk 8www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/ kenwood/ Sat 26 & Sun 27 Jan Sat 9 Feb World Championship of Ping Pong at Haringey Huskies V Slough Jets Ice Hockey Sun 13 Jan Alexandra Palace (N22) Tickets £17.50-£55 match at Alexandra Palace (N22) From 5pm, Haringey Huskies V Swindon Wildcats Ice (Conc: from £11) 8www.alexandrapalace.com tickets £7 (conc: £3). Followed by Saturday Disco Hockey match at Alexandra Palace (N22) From (additional fee). 8alexandrapalace.com 5pm, tickets £7 (conc: £3). Sun 27 Jan 8alexandrapalace.com Haringey Huskies V Bracknell Hornets Ice Sun 10 Feb Hockey match at Alexandra Palace (N22) From Sealed with a Kiss at Stephens House (N3) Mon 14 Jan 5pm, tickets £7 (conc: £3). Valentines card making, £1 each. 11.30-13.00 & Adult Museum Makers with Art Stop: Book 8alexandrapalace.com 14.00 -15.30 Makers, at the Dugdale (EN2) Informal 8www.stephenshouseandgardens.com/ workshop with Lisa Howes, 6.30-8:30pm, £15 Thu 31 Jan 8 Diddi Dance at the Jewish Museum (NW1) per person. www.dugdalecentre.co.uk Quiz night at Stephens House (N3) £15 10:30-11:15am and 11:30-12:15pm. For 18m- 5yrs. including supper. 19:30. Free. 8jewishmuseum.org.uk Fri 18 Jan 8www.stephenshouseandgardens.com/ Ziggy’s World Jazz Club at The Dugdale (EN2) Gill Manly, Frater Taylor ‘World Connections Night’ Double Bill & Guests. 7.45pm £16. 8www.dugdalecentre.co.uk Sat 19 Jan & Sat 16 Feb Natural Weaving Workshops, in Partnership with Yogart London, at the Dugdale (EN2) 11am-2pm, £40 a ticket. 8www.dugdalecentre.co.uk Wed 16 Jan Alan Bern and Svetlana Kundish present: Music from a Vanished World at the Jewish Museum (NW1) 7-9pm, Tickets: £20 (conc: £15). 8jewishmuseum.org.uk Fri 18 Jan and Every Fri (ex Fri 22 Feb) Planet Play at Chickenshed (N14) 10am, for 0-3 year olds. Tickets £6 8www.chickenshed.org.uk Fri 18 Jan/Sat 19 Jan and every Fri/Sat Tales from the Shed at Chickenshed (N14) Fridays at 11.30am, Saturdays at 10am & 11.30am. Additional half term events also available. 0-6 year olds. 8www.chickenshed.org.uk

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

Mon 11 Feb Adult Museum Makers with Art Strop: Contemporary Collage Making at the Dugdale (EN2) 6.30-8.30pm, £15 per person includes all materials. 8www.dugdalecentre.co.uk Weds 13 Feb Fred & ginger at the Dugdale (EN2) The story of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers told through songs. 2.30pm, tickets £16 (conc: £15) 8www.dugdalecentre.co.uk Fri 15 Feb Ziggy’s World Jazz Club at the Dugdale (EN2) Ian Shaw with Steve Taylor Trio, 7.45pm 8www.dugdalecentre.co.uk Sat 16 Feb BBC Concert Orchestra (N22) Doors open 2pm. 8alexandrapalace.com Sat 16 & Sun 17 Feb Wow It’s Night Time at the Dugdale (EN2) Presented by Little Angel Theatre. 11am, ages 2-5, full price tickets £11, family ticket: £34. 8www.dugdalecentre.co.uk Sun 17- Sat 23 Feb Italian for Beginners at the Arts Depot (N12) – No booking required, 10am-4pm daily. 8www.artsdepot.co.uk Sun 17 Feb Haringey Huskies V Raiders 2 Ice Hockey match at Alexandra Palace (N22) From 5pm, tickets £7 (conc: £3). 8alexandrapalace.com Sun 17 Feb ET IACF antiques & Collectors Fair at Alexandra Palace (N22) 9.30-16: 30 ’S G 8 T alexandrapalace.com LE HALF TERM Mon 18 Feb to Weds 20 Feb Y The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (The Hall PART Middle School, Belsize Park, NW3; The Birchwood HIS Centre, Muswell Hill, N10; Mansergh Club, St Johns T Wood, NW8; and St John’s Highbury Vale Primary School, N5) Perform’s three day drama, song and dance February half-term course for 4-10s, from 10am to 3pm. ! If travel broadens the imagination, imagine what a trip to Narnia can do. TED Watch your child go through the wardrobe with Susan, Peter, Edmund STAR and Lucy as they battle the White Witch and cheer Aslan the Lion. With magical creatures, snowy landscapes and a triumphant royal victory, Narnia is the perfect destination for the February half-term. itations What your child can enjoy: verything from inv • Three fun-packed full days of drama, dance and singing We’ll supply e • Energetic friendly team of actors, dancers and musicians cated party nd drink with dedi • Colourful performance on the last day for friends and to food a host. family with original music and costumes your own special • Personalised certificate of achievement for every child areas and even bring is the kids! (020 7255 9120 *[email protected] 8www.perform.org.uk/lion All you have to Mon 18 to Fri 22 Feb Sinote Consulting Finance Club (N11) 10am-1pm, 2pm-5pm. Choose a 2 day program priced at £25 per session with discounts for sibilings/multiple bookings. For 10-15 year olds, this new innovative club will enable children to explore/gain business and finance insights to shape their future ambition! (020 8090 0885 *[email protected]. To book an unforgettable Mon 18 Feb Stories and More, February School Holiday Workshop at the Dugdale birthday party from £180, (EN2) 10.30-11:30am, Tickets: £5 (£4 in advance). Under 5s 8www.dugdalecentre.co.uk visit gojumpin.com or Tues 19 & Thu 21 Feb call 01926 356290 Get creative at the Jewish Museum (NW1) Free drop in session for 0-16 yr olds. 11-12.30pm and 2-3.30pm. 8jewishmuseum.org.uk team for in ask one of our Next time you’re Wed 20 Feb area Curious Explorers Morning at the Jewish Museum (NW1) Free, drop in ur of our party session 9-11am, 5-15 yr olds, most suited to those children autism/other a to social communication conditions. 8jewishmuseum.org.uk Wed 20 to Sat 23 Feb Tales from the Shed at Chickenshed (N14) 10am & 11.30am. 0-6 year olds. 8www.chickenshed.org.uk Sat 23 Feb Learn to Sow Using a Sewing Machine at Forty Hall (EN2) 11am-3pm, £65 per person, includes £15 kit. 8www.fortyhallestate. co.uk Sun 23 Feb Club De Fromage On Ice at Alexandra Palace (N22) 8.30pm, £10. 8alexandrapalace.com

familiesonline.co.uk Families North London 17 We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and Parties, Clubs, Classes and Activities may be subject to change. Please check before setting out.

La Jolie Ronde offer French and own area devoted to them. Also, CHILDREN’S PARTIES CODING Spanish classes throughout North birthday parties, school and group Adam Ants – offers high energy CodeToday focuses on treating London for all ages. events, free running classes, fitness parties. Adam Ants and his computer coding seriously while 8www.lajolieronde.co.uk classes, teen nights, toddler classes talented team make sure their still making it fun and engaging. and other special events and parties are non-stop fun. With All courses use Python—a full- Portugese for Children sessions throughout the year. something for all ages: magic, featured programming language. (NW6) Every Saturday, from 10am 8www.gojumpin.com/enfield/ balloon modelling, puppets, music, We run private courses for groups to 12pm, the international Gospel dancing, games and face painting. of friends, held at a participants’ Church on Belsize Park will be open Kiddikicks (NW1, N16, NW6, W9) They also offer amazing disco/ home, and scheduled courses. Ages for children from 4 to 12 years to Football Coaching for children 18 sports parties or the ever popular 7-17. 8CodeToday.co.uk enrol for lessons which will include months to 10 years old. Build a Bear party. You can hire *[email protected] reading and writing, and Brazilian (020 7937 7965 tables and chairs/bouncy castles/ (020 3289 7431 culture, including Music! Pre- *[email protected] soft play and ball ponds. New for booking required, 8www.kiddikicks.co.uk/timetable 2018/2019: Fantastic Lego Parties. MAMA.codes Creative Coding *[email protected] 8www.adamantsparties.co.uk Classes: Fun and creative London Academy of Gymnastics (020 8959 1045 after-school and holiday coding & Dance (LAGAD), N2, N3, N12, (07969 121 094 clubs for ages 3-8. Our unique MUSIC AND MOVEMENT N8, N10, N14, N15, N20, N22, NW11, approach to teaching coding and Colourstrings – for a brilliant start HA9, Herts. High quality, dynamic Microsport (NW1, NW3 & NW8) computational thinking using in music! Call (020 8444 9435 for and fun classes for children aged offers fun, multi-sports parties stories, rhymes, jokes, songs and a trial of 3 discounted lessons or from 3.5 – 16 years. Fully-trained for children aged 2–8 years. Our ‘unplugged’ coding games builds *[email protected] and qualified coaches. All abilities entertaining, unique programme fluency for the jobs of the future. 8www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk welcome. Trial Classes available. is adapted from our weekly classes Discounted trials available. (020 8883 4675 and can include firm favourites (07709 266 901 DaCapo Saturday Music Centre *[email protected] like tennis, football, hockey, 8www.mama.codes - is a friendly, inclusive and 8www.lagad.co.uk rugby, cricket, basketball as well *Mama.codes.finchley@gmail. innovative music school in North as general sporting skills and com Finchley. We teach all instruments, Microsport (NW1, NW3) offers fun, athletics. For more info: all abilities and all ages from multi-sports classes for children *[email protected] toddlers-upwards. Family-friendly aged 2-8 years. We run weekly COOKERY environment. Many parents learn sessions during term times in Jacksons Lane (N6) - Jacksons with us too! Contact us now to Kentish Town, Marylebone and Sycamore Seeds After School West Hampstead and do Holiday Lane is the perfect venue to host Cookery Club Teaching kids how book your free taster session and your child’s next birthday party. come for a free coffee at our Microsport clubs. to cook helps build a healthy 8www.micro-sport.co.uk for With a selection of flexible spaces attitude to food. Hands-on lessons delicious café. (07923 130 289 and Cafe Theadro on hand, all you 8 details and to book or from a Leiths-trained chef that www.dacapo.co.uk * need to do is turn up! *[email protected] [email protected] for more 8 go “beyond cupcakes”. We make info including parties! www.jacksonslane.org.uk sweet and savoury treats to take (020 8340 5226 Muswell Young Musicians is a home, develop kitchen skills and North London Schools of learn fun food facts. Mondays at Saturday Music School offering Perform Parties Based around musicianship classes (18 months Taekwondo The Korean Martial a colourful theme, Perform’s Hornsey Vale Community Centre Art of Taekwondo, for Self Defence, (N8) for 7-11 year-olds. Private - 5 years) and an innovative energetic party leaders use a instrumental programme (5 Fitness, discipline and Confidence. magical mix of songs, games lessons and children’s parties Classes for 3–5 yr olds, 5–11 yr olds also available. (07887 585957 years+). We’re passionate about and laughter to create fun-filled, music education and strive to and mixed Family/Adults. Classes action-packed parties. *[email protected] in Barnet, Cheshunt & Enfield. 8sycamoresmyth.com/sycamore- provide an inclusive setting where 8 (020 7255 9120 young people can enjoy high- www.taekwondo-northlondon. 8performparties.co.uk seeds co.uk quality music making and grow as 8 well-rounded musicians. Contact www.selfdefence-london.com Rising Stars Birthday Parties (N2 Phone Richard on (07967 128 420 + greater London) A full service DANCE us for a free trial. We look forward to welcoming you! Rising Stars Football Club (N2 offering which includes venues, The London Institute Of Dance ( entertainment, invitations, 07954 854 731 + NW2) High quality football (N10, N8, N12, N21, N22, N9, EN4, 8www.muswellyoungmusicians. catering and going home presents Herts) Excellent, Professional coaching in a safe and fun co.uk environment. Children will learn so parents can sit back and enjoy tuition in Imperial Ballet, Tap, * the party! We offer various themes info@muswellyoungmusicians. and develop core football skills Modern, Contemporary & More. co.uk including football, multi – sports, For ages 2.5years–Adults. to ensure that they progress and nerf guns, dance, gymnastics and (07563 136 803 fulfil their potential. Teaching will bespoke themes whilst playing the 8www.londoninstituteofdance.org SPORTS AND EXERCISE also focus on appreciating good latest big tunes. (020 8150 6655. *londoninstituteofdance@yahoo. sportsmanship and teamwork. We *[email protected] com Danny Grant Soccer School – offer a boys and girls only football 8www.risingstarsactivities.com Action-packed football camps club! Age structure: Pre Reception– Highgate Ballet School – and classes for ages 3.5-12years Year 6. Book now (020 8150 6655 Nicky Grace, textile artist in Ballet Classes for all ages in NW3. Non-stop skills, drills, *[email protected] Muswell Hill, offers craft parties in North London. 8www. games and tournaments, led by and workshops for children (and highgateballetschool.com professional, enthusiastic coaches. adults) in a calm, natural place Now booking 2-day Christmas SWIMMING which seats up to 14 people round Holiday Camps, plus weekly Just Swim provide swimming the table. Children take home the LANGUAGES Saturday classes and football lessons in several North London beautiful things they have made so parties also available! locations (Barnet, Friern Barnet, no need for party bags! Club Petit Pierrot (NW3/8/11) (020 8446 0891 French classes offered for a range Hornsey) for all ages. *[email protected] 8www.dgsoccer.co.uk 8www.justswim.org.uk 8the greenshed.format.com of ages, toddler upwards. 8www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk Gojumpin (EN1) Interconnecting Oakleigh Park School of trampolines for free jumping, foam Swimming provide swimming pits, tumble tracks, battle beams lessons in Whetstone, Mill Hill and and more. Under 5s have their

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

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

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

Woodside Park for babies – adults. Huzzah Performing Arts & of staff. The nursery is open from *info@teachersteachenfield. 8www.swimoakleighpark.co.uk Mindfulness Build confidence 8am-6pm, Monday to Friday for 47 co.uk from the inside out with a huzzah weeks of the year. Swimming Nature – Teaching weekly class. Drama, dance, (020 7099 0452 babies, children and adults the singing and a touch of mindfulness. 8www.bilingualnurseries.com BABY & TODDLER fundamentals skills required to Ages 4-7. Saturday 1 - 2.20pm in Friern Barnet Community Library improve water confidence and Queen’s Park. Sunday 10 - 11.30am Leaders are Readers award- learn to swim. For 25 years, our winning reading programme, (N1) offers a variety of classes in West Hampstead. Creative, for adults and children. These hands-on approach helps students calm, confident kids. Sign up for a exemplary English, maths, 4+, 5+, reach their goals faster. Swimming 7+ and 11+ curricula have helped include Toddlers Rhyme time on FREE TRIAL at Wednesdays at 11am, Toddler Nature deliver lessons in Queens 8www.huzzahperformingarts.com more than 3500 children from Park, Muswell Hill, Highbury, 3+ to 13 years old, for over 17 Messy Play on Thursdays at 11am, Hampstead, Cricklewood. Perform NW3, N22, N8, NW5, N2, years, with a 90% pass rate for and Minecraft club for children on 8www.swimmingnature.com N12 & N3, N4, N11, NW3, NW11, children taking entrance exams Fridays 4–5pm. The library is also a (03445 040 506. N6, N1, N10, N12, NW1, N14, NW8, to top grammar & independent party venue and available to hire N16, N20, N7, NW6, N21 and NW7 schools. Saturday School for the for education and health classes. Tiny Swimmers provide swimming Confidence building fun for 4-12s. Spring 2019 term enrolling now. St 8www.friernbarnetlibrary.org lessons in Barnet, Finchley, Hornsey A unique mix of drama, dance Andrews’s CE Primary School 297 Humpty Dumpty Singalong is and Islington. and singing specially formulated Chase Road, Southgate N14 6JA. 8www.tinyswimmers.co.uk a relaxed singing/music session to bring out every child’s true Free assessment on open days. for babies and toddlers (0-2s) potential. Classes are kept small to (01992 651 300 8 with grown-ups. We sing a mix of ensure lots of individual attention. www.leadersarereaders.co.uk nursery rhymes and other favourite THEATRE & PERFORMING ARTS Perform offer no-obligation FREE ( SDE Finchley Susan Daughtrey songs, we make live music Anna Fiorentini Theatre & Film trial sessions. 020 7255 9120 together with shakers, bells and School: Saturday workshops in *[email protected] Education has operated extremely 8 successful 11+ Courses for over 25 my ukulele and we have puppets, Drama, Singing, Dance and Film www.perform.org.uk/try toys, bubbles and more! Singalong all taught by leading industry years. The classes are taught Join the exhilarating by a qualified, experienced and parties also available! 11-11.45am professionals. Our Camden Wednesdays, Hargrave Hall, branch takes place at Parliament atmosphere of The Place this carefully selected KS2 teacher Winter. Jam packed with dance and prepare Year 4 & 5 students Archway N1 and other sessions are Hill School at 9.30am–2pm or available in Crouch End, Stroud 2.30pm–5.30pm for 7–18 year olds. activities and performances for for both CEM and GL Assessment all ages from babies to over 60’s, tests (and is therefore suitable Green and Islington. Fiorentini Weenies for 4–6 years 8www.facebook.com/ takes place at 9.30am–11am. More including workshops the whole preparation for Henrietta Barnett family can enjoy together! (Stage 1), Laytmer, QE Boys, Dame thehumptydumptysingalong or details at 8www.annafiorentini. *thehumptydumptysingalong@ com 8theplace.org.uk (020 7121 1100 Alice Owen’s, SW Herts Consortium and other counties such as Bucks hotmail.com Dramarama – Exciting Performing Theatre Life Academy and Berks). Mock Tests also Arts courses and classes for ages (N12) Exceptional musical theatre available. Call (020 3515 0099 3.5-15years in NW3. Develop acting classes for 4-18s, taught by *[email protected] skills and performance technique industry professionals. Classes 8www.sde11plus.com/courses and star in exciting plays, include Singing, Dance & Drama, dance shows and musicals. Now learning material from London’s Teachers Teach Education Centre booking 2-day Christmas Holiday West End. We build stamina, (EN1 EN2 N9 EN3 EN7 N21) Offers Workshops, plus weekly Saturday confidence, co-ordination, fitness professional tuition by qualified classes and drama parties also and self-esteem. At the end of teachers. They teach students from available! (020 8446 0891 each term a presentation will reception age through to those 8www.dramarama.co.uk be performed in the studio for studying for A-Levels covering: parents. Private lessons are also SATs, 11+ & Entrance exams, GCSEs, Holiday Academy (NW1) is a available. (07730 482 148 A-LEVELs - as well as mock exams children’s day camp in NW1, for 8www.theatrelifeacademy.co.uk and informal school tests. OFSTED children aged 3-12 (in age groups) registered. (Use childcare vouchers from all schools. Go along for or claim Childcare tax credits). Call exciting sessions including music, AFTER SCHOOL CLUB / EDUCATION (020 8363 5008 drama, art, sport and forest school Bilingual Nurseries (N1) French/ 8www.teachersteachenfield.co.uk each school holiday. Sessions English Mars Montessori Bilingual running over the Oct Half Term Nursery is a small private nursery Mon 23–Fri 27 Oct, at Cavendish in the heart of Islington, offering School. (07585 002 327 Montessori education and a *[email protected] bilingual environment, coupled 8www.holidayacademy.co.uk with extended day care for children aged 1-4 years. We have only 24 children, and 6 members Kids Half Term Finance Club- Feb 2019 Sinote Consulting finance club is an interesting, new and innovative half term club for children aged 10-15 years old. It gives an opportunity to explore and gain finance and business insights relevant to shape their future ambition. Bright Ideas Start Early! A 2-days programme from 18th-21st February at 10am-1pm or 2pm-5pm with a choice of learning about: Money, Markets and Trade Demand, Supply and Business start up Business Planning and analysis Held in Barnet N11 1GN at £25/session Call: 02080900885, 07368316819 Email: [email protected] Discounts on multiple bookings

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