IN THIS ISSUE • How thinking skills can equip your child • The benefits of boredom • School open day dates • Half term workshops

Issue 124 October 2018 familiesonline.co.uk In this issue... This is our “extra” issue - we decided to bring out an extra magazine in October as this is the time when the search for schools is in full swing. There is lots of useful info for you Education linked to short-sightedness packed in these pages if you trying to make this important The longer a person spends in education the more short-sighted they decision. But of course, there’s lots more. October means are likely to become, according to a recent large scale study. it is nearly time for a break and West London doesn’t Researchers based at the University of Bristol and Cardiff University disappoint. There is so much goning this o half term - conducted a study of 68,000 participants’ education, sight and your little ones will be spoilt for choice. genetic information. The study proves that education is a "causal risk And at the end we bring you a list of the best places in West London to see the fireworks. factor" for short sight (myopia). Enjoy! Cardiff University's Prof Jez Guggenheim, from the school of optome- try and vision sciences, said “Myopia develops mainly during school 2 News & Views 14 Diary Dates years and then tends to stabilise in adulthood.” In some Asian countries like Singapore, South Korea and China, 4 Thinking Skills What’s on in Coping with STRESS 16 where there are intensive education pressures including homework at West London pre-school level, as many as 90% of people are short-sighted by the 6 School Open Day Half Term time they leave school at 18. Half of these children are already listings 19 Workshops myopic by the end of primary school, compared to 10 per cent of 10 School News British children. 20 Classified ads and However, it remains unclear how exactly education impacts a child's 12 The benefits of Party listings eyesight. boredom! One finding was that spending more time outdoors protects children against the development of myopia. Another was, near-work activities Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter such as reading contribute to myobpia, a lthough not to the same Families West Magazine @FamiliesWest extent as lack of time outside. Find more info at: www.bmj.com

Reading charity to reach more struggling readers across England than ever before With the new academic year well under way, national reading charity Beanstalk is stepping up its search for volunteers to help reach more children than ever before with its potentially life-changing reading support programmes. Volunteers are needed nationwide to join Beanstalk’s network of trained reading helpers to hel p deliver vital one-to-one support to children aged 3 to 13 who are at risk of falling behind at school without intervention. Beanstalk works to close the gap between struggling readers and their peers by providing trained volunteers who support and encourage children on a one-to-one basis in local early years and primary school settings. The increasing number of schools requesting Beanstalk volunteers and the addition of a new early years programme aimed at tackling the word gap among children aged three-five, means more volunteers are urgently needed in readiness for delivering Beanstalk’s programmes in the coming months. If you think you could make a really meaningful difference as a Beanstalk reading helper or a Story Starter volunteer then please get in touch with them on 0845 450 0301. www. beanstalkcharity.org.uk

Lemon Tree and St Matthew’s Montessori schools based in Ealing Broadway offering both full day care (8.00am-6.00pm) and term time (9.15am-3.15am) for children aged from 1.5 years to 5 years old. We offer French, Ballet, Yoga, Drama and PE inclusive of fees. Full and part time sessions available. Qualified and experienced teachers offer a high standard of learning, nurturing and care.

Lemon Tree Montessori: 07495 898 760 (Full Day Care) St Matthew’s Montessori: 07856 364153 (Term Time) Website: www.lemontreemontessori.com

2 Families west London October 2018 familiesonline.co.uk News & Views 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, this sends out a message that they believe in their child's skills and capabilities. This, in turn, makes the child believe in him or Mummy MOT herself, and in his or her skills and capabilities,” for Women Leaking, incontinence, tummy gaps and Associate Professor, Jaana Viljaranta from Arabic pelvic pain may be common but they’re the University of Eastern Finland explained. and Children not normal and you don’t have to suffer in Similarly, concrete homework assistance - silence! Whether you gave birth 6 weeks especially if not requested by a child - may Families welcome – or 6 years ago, The Mummy MOT is a send out a message that a parent doesn't Goal Oriented unique postnatal one-stop-assessment believe in their child's ability to do their and treatment programme created by top homework. • Dynamic • Innovative UK women’s health specialist Maria When a parent offers the child an opportunity • Eective • Native Female Elliott. It includes a full body assessment for autonomous working, the child will work per- Teacher (& mother of 3!) and provides bespoke exercises to sistently, which leads to better development of restore your core and pelvic floor, helping skills. If, however, a parent’s homework assis- Call Reem on full postnatal recovery. She is also the tance involves plenty of concrete help, first practitioner in the UK to offer the new the child will work less persistently, oleading t 07956 845 053 PelviPower™ Therapy Chair! poorer development of skills. It painlessly helps to heal your pelvic It is important for parents to take their child’s pain, strengthen your pelvic floor and needs into consideration when offering restore your core, while sitting down and homework assistance. Of course, parents without even taking your clothes off! should offer concrete help when their child With practices in central London, clearly needs it. However, concrete help is not Richmond and Queen’s Tennis Club something that should be made automatically there’s somewhere convenient available in every situation - wherever yo u live. “Only when needed,” Viljaranta said. More information at: More info at: www.sciencedaily.com http://mariaelliottphysiotherapy services.co.uk/ to book appointments: https://maria-elliott- physiotherapy.cliniko. com/bookings#location

familiesonline.co.uk October 2018 Families west London 3 How thinking skills can equip your child for the future

What jobs will be available to According to Bloom’s hierarchy, my child when the time the least complex (lower order) thinking skills such as recalling comes for them to enter the information form the base of the employment market? It’s a pyramid and the most complex worry for every parent. (higher order) skills, such as Artificial Intelligence will ‘kill creativity, sit at the peak. off’ five million jobs by 2020, according to some of the Put simply, the higher up the more alarmist headlines. pyramid you go, the safer you While AI threatens hundreds are from the rising tide of the of thousands of jobs in the machines. retail and administration sectors, top professions Thinking Schools, at which these such as the law and higher-order skills are taught, can be found all over the world, medicine are also set to be including in Dubai, Lithuania, transformed by the ‘march Norway, New Zealand, Egypt, of the robots.’ Nigeria and Thailand. In Malaysia, the government has So how can we help our looked to introduce the Thinking children to future-proof their Schools model in 10,000 public skills? schools. In the world of education, the speed at which the robots are In Britain, too, there is a new advancing has poured more fuel enthusiasm for schools where on to the debate about the value these skills form the basis of of learning by rote. Are schools, teaching. There is growing under enormous pressure from recognition that Thinking government to deliver ever- Schools drive the type of unique better exam grades, responding thinking skills and intelligent by priming a generation of learning behaviours that we all thinking processes and (www.cog-ignition.com) works students simply to remember, need in an increasingly ultimately to create, understand, directly with families, and use recall and regurgitate facts just technological world. Much of problem-solve and persist with ‘cognitive coaches’ who work as the need for those skills is education has shifted too far tasks rather than merely one-to-one to develop the being usurped by Siri and Alexa? towards pure recall and regurgitate answers. thinking skills, attitudes and Surely, if we want our children to regurgitation of fact. succeed in a future where so interpersonal skills needed to Recent research has shown that succeed at school and far many jobs will be dominated by But thinking skills are not an attending an accredited Thinking beyond. automation, we should educate education programme; they are School can improve pupils’ them with skills unique to human an attitude to learning. beings? GCSE results by as much as a We don’t have to think of grade above what they were machines purely as a threat. In a Thinking School: originally predicted. Accredited They are, after all, our own So, what are those uniquely all members share a common Thinking Schools have been rig- creation. human skills, and where can language of learning; orously assessed by Exeter The key is to develop the intel- your child learn them? What do thinking strategies and tools are University’s Cognitive Education ligences and skills to get them we as a species have going for used across the curriculum and Development Unit to ensure that to work for us! us that the computers don’t - teachers and students have they meet strict and are unlikely to for at least sound understanding of criteria and a list of them can be a while? metacognition; Dr David Walters is Deputy found at: all students are developing and Principal of a secondary school http://www.socialsciences. One of our most important is demonstrating independent and in the South West and an exeter.ac.uk/education/thinking cognitive - or thinking - skills. co-operative learning skills; Honorary Fellow, Exeter schools/accreditation/accredited Back in the 1950s a US there are high levels of achieve- University Graduate School of schools/ psychologist called Benjamin ment and an excitement and Education. Thinking Matters Bloom devised his now-famous enthusiasm for learning. works with schools all over the hierarchy of thinking. This Should your child not be at an accredited school, you can still country which want to become ‘pyramid of thought’ classifies Typically, in a Thinking School access the Thinking Matters Thinking Schools. For further thinking according to six you will see pupils working with approach to education used by information, visit: cognitive levels of complexity. ‘map’-like visual tools which help Thinking Schools. Cog-Ignition www.thinkingmatters.com It is increasingly relevant today. children to understand their

4 Families west London October 2018 familiesonline.co.uk Helping your child cope with STRESS By Claire Winter

Stress in primary school Change, 55% of families do not stress, particularly when your child worries. Set aside a time when you children has risen to worrying openly discuss mental health. is making the transition to a new and they are not too tired, like on levels according to school Katie Buckingham from the social school or starting the new school the walk to school, or after you’ve leaders. 78% of school primary enterprise, Altruist Enterprises year. Here’s what is important: eaten your evening meal and ask teachers in a recent survey (altruistuk.com) believes families them how they are really feeling. reported a general increase in should talk more about their Get Enough Sleep stress and anxiety among problems. She believes the first Sleep improves our memory, Exercise primary pupils. step to combating this problem is sharpens our attention span Getting regular exercise can to simply start a conversation. and helps us maintain a healthy reduce stress. Try to walk to walk According to the report by the weight. Avoiding gadgets an hour to school with your child, visit a website, Key, a national school Here are Katie’s six tips (think before bed and doing more playground or park on the way support service, 27% of teachers APPLES) when you talk to your relaxing activities such as reading home or get out for a walk at the surveyed attributed the increase child: or having a bath can make all the weekend. Encourage your child to in anxiety and stress to tests and Approach casually: mention difference to the quality of your participate in a sporting or physical 37% to social media. Thankfully well-known celebs like Adele child’s sleep. activity which will build exercise MPs have finally acknowledged who openly discuss their issues into their schedule automatically. the adverse side-effects of SATs Positivity: avoid negative Always Eat Breakfast and have proposed eliminating language Make sure your child starts the day Anxiety and stress can be self- them for seven year olds by 2023. Patience: no one likes to be with a nutritious and healthy meal perpetuating, your child is anxious The government has also pressured to set them up for a full day. This so only focusses on the things in committed £300 million to improve Listen carefully: ask open-ended will boost their energy and can their life that are causing them to young people’s mental health. rather than leading questions also improve memory and feel stressed. Encourage them to Many educationalists argue that Encourage: your children to decrease stress levels. have a positive outlook but also this is too little, far too late. pursue things they love allow them to voice their fears.If With evidence of self-harm, eating Support: seek extra help if you Check-in with your Child you help teach your child about disorders and stress being on the feel it’s needed. If your child seems stressed, for resilience and how to cope with increase in schools, what should instance, if they are not sleeping the tough times, as well as the we as parents be doing to help our Create a Healthy Routine well, not eating well, behaving good ones, you will be teaching kids feel less stressed? Dr. Riccardo Di Cuffa, Director, more emotionally than usual or are them a great skill for life. and GP at Your Doctor (www.your- less interactive or more clingy, you If you are concerned about your Get Talking doctor.co.uk) says that having a need to get them to talk and not child, please make sure you seek According to a poll run by Time to healthy routine can help combat bottle up their feelings and help from a medical professional.

familiesonline.co.uk October 2018 Families west London 5 School Open Day Dates

School Address Age Dates Contact details Eaton Square Upper School 106 Piccadilly, Mayfair W1J 7NL 11-18 16 Oct, www.eatonsquareupper.school 21 Nov [email protected]

Portland Place School 56-58 Portland Place W1B 1NJ 9-18 1 Nov 5-7pm 020 7307 8700 17 Nov 10am-12noon www.portland-place.co.uk Tours: 3 Oct, 5, 13. 28 Nov [email protected] Southbank International School 63-65 Portland Place, W1B 1QR 11-18 21 Nov 9.30-11am. 020 7243 3803 (Westminster Campus) By appointment www.southbank.org [email protected] Hyde Park Nursery The Long Garden, Albion Street W2 2AX 2-11 4 Oct 9.30am 020 7262 1190 and Pre-Preparatory School Nov 9.30am (Taster Morning) www.hydeparkschool.co.uk [email protected] International School 139 Gunnersbury Avenue, 3-8 By appointment 020 8992 5823 of London W3LG 8 www.isllondon.org

Pembridge Hall 18 Pembridge Square W2 4EH 4-11G By appointment 020 7229 0121 www.pembridgehall.co.uk [email protected] Arts Educational Schools Cone Ripman House, 11-18 By appointment 020 8987 6600 · www.artsed.co.uk London 14 Bath Road W4 1LY [email protected]

Orchard House School 16 Newton Grove, W4 1LB 3-11 11 Oct, 9.30-11.30am 020 8742 8544 www.orchardhs.org.uk [email protected] rg.uk Heathfield House School Heathfield Gardens, W4 4JU 4-11 By appointment 0208 994 3385 www.heathfieldhouse.co.uk

Chiswick and Bedford Park Priory House, Priory Avenue, Chiswick, 3-7B By appointment 020 8994 1804 Preparatory School London W4 1TX 3-11G www.cbppschool.co.uk [email protected] The Falcons Pre-Prep School 2 Burnaby Gardens, Chiswick W4 3DT 3-7B By appointment 020 8747 8393 for Boys www.falconschool.com [email protected]

Clifton Lodge School 8 Mattock Lane, Ealing, W5 5BG 3-13 6 Oct, 10am-12noon 020 8579 3662 www.cliftonlodgeschool.co.uk [email protected] Durston House 12 Castlebar Road, Ealing W5 2DR 4-13B 11, 12 Oct 020 8991 6532 Introductory morning 13 Oct www.durstonhouse.org 9.30 – 11am [email protected] St Benedict’s School Junior School and Nursery (age 3-11) 3-18 Sixth Form Open Evening: Book a place on the website or arrange 5 Montpelier Avenue, Ealing, W5 2XP 11 Oct, a personal visit with the Registrar, Senior School and Sixth Form (age 11-18) Whole School Open Morning: Louise Pepper, on 020 8862 2254 54 Eaton Rise, Ealing W5 2ES 6 Oct, www.stbenedicts.org.uk

Harvington Prep School 20 Castlebar Road Ealing W5 2DS 3-4 co-ed By appointment 0208 997 1583 2-18G www.harv ingtonschool.com [email protected] St Augustine’s Priory Hillcrest Road, Ealing W5 2JL 2-3 co-ed Open day: 13 Oct, 10-12 noon 020 8997 2022 (Nursery) www.sapriory.com 3-18G [email protected]

Kensington Park School 40 - 44 Bark Place, 7-11 Open Evenings (Booking essential) 020 3725 3192 London W2 4AT Lower School: 7 Nov www.kps.co.uk Sixth Form: 15 Nov [email protected]

Latymer Prep School 36 Uppe r Mall, Hammersmith W6 9TA 7-11 Open days throughout the 0845 638 5700 Autumn Term www.latymerprep.org/open-mornings Telephone for an appointment [email protected]

Latymer Upper School King Street, Hammersmith W6 9LR 11-18 6 Oct, 11+ entrance only. 0845 638 5721 (children in Year 6). Tickets required www.latymer-upper.org Contact the Admissions Office [email protected]

St Paul’s Girls School Brook Green W6 7BS 11-18G 11+ entry: By appointment 020 7605 4882 6 Oct, 9am and 11.15am www.spgs.org 29 Oct, 5pm [email protected]

6 Families west London October 2018 familiesonline.co.uk School Address Age Dates Contact details Godolphin and Latymer School Iffley Road W6 0PG 11-18G For 11+ entry: 16 Oct, 020 8741 1936 4.45 - 7 pm www.godolphinandlatymer.com 6th Form- 4 Oct, 4.45pm [email protected] Hawkesdown House 27 Edge Street W8 7PN 3-8B By appointment 020 7727 9090 www.hawkesdown.co.uk

The Lloyd Williamson School 12 Telford Road W10 5SH 6 months- By appointment 020 8962 0345 to 14 yrs www.lloydwilliamson.co.uk Bassett House School 60 Bassett Road W10 6JP 3-11 5 Oct, 9.30-11am 020 8969 0313 www.bassetths.org.uk Notting Hill Preparatory School 95 Lancaster Rd, W11 1QQ 4-13 By appointment 020 7221 0727 www.nottinghillprep.com [email protected] Southbank International School 95 Lancaster Rd, W11 1QQ 3-11 5 Oct, 9.30-11am 020 7243 3803 (Kensington Campus) W11 3BU By appointment www.southbank.org [email protected] Avenue House School 70 The Avenue, Ealing 3-11 Individual tours by appointment 020 8998 9981 W13 8LS www.avenuehouse.org [email protected] Notting Hill and 26 St Stephens Road, 4-18G Junior: 4+ and 7+ (Parents Only) Booking essential. Ealing High School (GDST) W13 8HH) Entry at 4+ 15 Oct 1.15am, 16 Oct, 10.15am Admissions (Miss Lauren Smith) 7+, 11+ 020 8991 2165 and 16+ Senior: (Parents Only) www.nhehs.gdst.n et 8 Oct, 10.45am, 8 Nov at 10.45am [email protected] Senior School Open Evening: 17 Oct, 4.30pm. Sixth Form: 9 Oct, 6.00pm Parents & girls welcome - no booking Hyde Park Preparatory 24 Elvaston Place, SW7 5NL 5-11 4 Oct, 9.30am 020 7225 3131 School and Nursery Middx HA1 3NU 29 Nov, 9.30am www.hydeparkschool.co.uk/preparatory (Taster Morning) [email protected] Norland Place School 162-166 Holland Park Avenue 4-8B By appointment 020 7603 9103 W11 4UH 4-11G www.norlandplace.com [email protected] Orley Farm School South Hill Avenue, 4-13 6 Oct, 10am-12pm Booking essential. Harrow on the Hill or Wednesday morning www.orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk Middx HA1 3NU by appointment [email protected]

St. Helen’s College Parkway, Hillingdon, 2-11 School At Work Open Morning: 01895 234371 Middlesex 30 Oct, 9am - 12pm. www.sthelenscollege.com UB10 9JX By appointment only. [email protected] Visits may be booked by telephone Upper School: 01895 234 371 Lower School 01895 272 967

St Paul’s Juniors Lonsdale Road, 7-13 Open Day 7+, 8+ 3Nov 020 8748 3461 SW13 9JT Means-tested bursaries available at www.stpaulsschool.org.uk 7+, 8+ & 11+ [email protected] Kensington Park School 59 Queen’s Gate Open Evenings (Booking essential) 020 3725 3192 Sixth Form London SW7 5JP Lower School: 7 Nov www.kps.co.uk Sixth Form: 15 Nov [email protected]

Shiplake College Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire 11-18B Whole School: 14 Oct Book to attend at: Boarding and Day School RG9 4BW 16-18G 9.30am - 12.00pm www.shiplake.org.uk/opendays

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Butterfly Lane, Elstree, 5-18B By appointment 020 8266 1700 Boys’ School Herts WD6 3AF (01727 873 632 for www.habsboys.org.uk pre-prep open day) [email protected]

Haberdashers’ School Aldenham Road, 4-18G Senior School in action: 020 8266 2302 for Girls Elstree, Herts WD6 3BT 3, 16 Oct, 8, 15, 19 Nov (Junior School and Sixth form entry) Sixth Form: 8 Oct, 2-4pm 020 8266 2338 (age 11+) By appointmentI www.habsgirls.org.uk [email protected]

Eton College Windsor, Berkshire SL4 6DW 13-18B By appointment 01753 671000 www.etoncollege.com

The school where your child will spend most of their teen years will have a huge influence on their development and character. Your choices are important - which is where Open Days come in. Take your son or daughter with you; they will see things through a different set of eyes, and their opini on matters. Not all open day dates were available when we went to press: check the websites of the schools you're interested in for more information and where necessary, to book first. familiesonline.co.uk October 2018 Families west London 7 8 Families west London October 2018 familiesonline.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk October 2018 Families west London 9 News from the schools

Claire teaching phonics to the children at Notting Hill and Ealing High School Florida English School. The summer holidays offered one lucky teacher at Notting Hill and Ealing High School the opportunity to travel to Bangalore in India on a unique training programme aimed at inspiring and supporting teachers in countries with limited resources. In an initiative organised by the Girls Day School Trust of which NHEHS is part, Claire Sargison, Assistant Head and Year 3 Teacher at the NHEHS Junior School, along with several other teachers from GDST schools around the UK, trav- elled to India in August. They spent three and a half weeks working with teachers and over 60 children in the Florida English School. Under the guidance of the Limited Resource Teacher Training team, which runs the programme, Claire and her colleagues shared teaching methods and strategies rel ating to phonics and demonstrated concepts like having a positive mindset in the classroom. “As a teacher, my time in India has made me more confident. I can’t wait to tell my class all about my experiences.” Said Claire. Orley Farm School Enjoyed a bumper year on the scholarship front with 32 pupils being offered a staggering 51 scholarships this year - this is a record as previously the highest was 46 such awards. A particular highlight was receiving more scholarships to Harrow than any other prep school - something that they also managed two years ago. What’s their secret…? They run a unique and highly creative curr iculum that means that young learners are not looking to be ‘right’, they are looking to go beyond the question. Tim Calvey, headteacher says “Too many schools run education like a FTSE 100 company chasing short term hikes in stock prices… look to the banking crisis for an unhappy ending to that approach! At Orley Farm we are only interested in one thing... long term growth, in fact lifetime growth - simple really! It means that we can focus on the important things like learning an instrument, playing in the cricket team, forging friendships or even organising a colour run for our charity… I count myself to be extremely lucky to work with inspirational teachers who share a passion to bring out the best in everyone around them!” Orley Farm School is in South Hill Avenue, Harrow on the Hill and takes children ages 4-13. Contact them on: 020 8869 7634. or email: [email protected] www.orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk

Clifton Lodge School From September 2020, Clifton Lodge School in Ealing will become a solely 11+ prep school, with one exit point in Year 6. This will enable the school to focus on thei r excel- lent Nursery provision through to 11+ preparation for senior school entry. Clifton Lodge will better serve the developing trend, whereby a number of traditionally 13+ senior schools are now offering an entry point at 11+, or only offering entry now at 11+. This change enables the school to enhance their facilities whilst strengthening the support for pupils and parents in securing entry to the ir 11+ secondary schools of choice, be it a selective Independent senior school or one of the highly sought-after Grammar Schools. The next Open Day is on Saturday 6th October, or informal, private tours can be arranged. Clifton Lodge School is at 8 Mattock Lane, Ealing, London, W5 5BG. Call them on: 020 8579 3662. www.cliftonlodgeschool.co.uk Heathfield House School Heathfield House School, Chiswick, is now in its 15th year and has grown significantly since its early days. The school benefits from being placed in a prime location and makes use of numerous local facilities. Heathfield House School continues to be fast paced and ever evolving. A positive growth mindset is fostered in pupils, where they develop an understanding that they can learn from challenges. Pupils achieve well and go on to a wide range of highly selective secondary schools with many pupils receiving scholarships. For further information please visit: www.heathfieldhouse.co.uk

10 Families west London October 2018 familiesonline.co.uk

St Helen's College Due to more and more parents asking for extended care options for their children, St Helen's College in Hillingdon now offers a totally flexible package which could be seen as 'boarding without the boarding'. The co-educational prep school for boys and girls aged from two to eleven has a Breakfast Club from 7.30am, extended care until 6.00 pm and care available from 7.30 am to 6.00 pm t hroughout the school holidays (excludes bank holidays and Christmas), all provided by the college’s staff. This means that the school's expectations and core values of love, harmony and growth run through everything the children do, in both work and play. So, whether they are eating breakfast, in a classroom or taking part in an after-school club or holiday camp, they will feel loved, secure and happy. For more information, visit: www.sthelenscollege.com

Durston House This year Durston House school have decided to use the first few days of term to focus on one topic. “It’s not something we have ever done before but so far, it is going down a treat! Durston House have kicked off the year with a focus on Study Skills. Education here at Durston is shaped by a boy’s development of character, curiosity to learn and discover more, and his expanding capabilit y. Linking with our ‘3 C’s,’ we feel that study skills is an area where the boys are never too young to start to understand how they learn and how they could improve. It also links with mental health which is hugely important. With this in mind, the whole school has got involved in participating in two days’ worth of fun interactive assemblies and activities. These include the topics: Growth Mind-set, Instructions, Organisation, Learning Styles, Presentation and Mindfulness. The PE and Games Department have also produced special lessons focusing on Healthy Body = Healthy Mind. We have even invited the parents to a special event focusing on memory techniques. We will revisit Study Skills throughout the year, especially in the run up to exam season. We hope that developing pupil study skills and therefore their approach to learning, will ultimately have a positive impact both on results and the overall mental health of our boys.” www.durstonhouse.org

Kensington Park School London’s new senior school, has opened its doors! Situated in the heart of London, Kensington Park School (KPS) is a new day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 11-18. With top-flight teaching, an extensive co-curricular offering and an innovative curriculum, the school is fast making a name for itself as a top educational choice for parents. Despite being a new school, pup ils benefit from some of the best teachers in the country. The core team has been drawn from the UK’s top schools including St Paul’s School, Dulwich College and Winchester College. They’re led by headmaster Paul Vanni, previously deputy head of St Paul’s Girls’ School, who brings a proven track record of academic excellence and comprehensive pastoral care to KPS. The school has put together a modern and dynamic curriculum geared towards preparing its pupils for the challenges of the 21st century. Its co-curricular provision is second to none; activities on offer range from technical theatre and dance to fencing, ice hockey and swimming. Visit the website for more information: www.kps.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk October 2018 Families west London 11 The benefits of boredom

“I’m bored!” How many times do we hear those words as parents? I have lost count of the number of times my precious moppets have whined over the years that they are ‘bored’ as they demanded some form of entertainment be provided (or at the very least that their electronics be returned after being confiscated yet again). But being bored is good for children; it’s part of childhood; it’s the catalyst to spark their imagination; it’s the pathway to creative play and to finding solutions to problems themselves.

Between work commitments and to look back on, but in our quest plaintive wail of ‘I’m bored’ is though, when no entertainment school, our time with our children to do that, sometimes we forget ‘Only boring people get bored’ to is forthcoming, most of them is often limited and, of course, that some of their best memories which my children roll their eyes do get the hang of making up we want that time to be ‘quality will come from the things they and huff at me. The children games, and using their time.’ However, by providing a learned, discovered, explored whose parents are like me and imagination, instead of being constant carousel of activities, and sometimes struggled with allow them to be bored, soon directed through a series of entertainments and days out, themselves, not the things that start inventing games, building crafts or activities. In some we are failing to teach them how were handed to them on a plate. worlds and coming up with cases, they even declare being to amuse themselves, to develop When my children have friends things to do, whereas those handed an old blanket and told inner resources and be happy over, it’s always obvious which children who are used to being to go and make a den, to have with their own company. ones are used to boredom, and given a series of suggestions been ‘the best fun ever!’ It’s natural to want our children which ones are accustomed to a and things to do, struggle with My conviction about the benefits to have fun, enjoy their child- constant programme of events. the concept of being told to just of boredom partly stems from hood and have happy memories My usual response to the ‘go and play!’ After a little while fairly lazy parenting. I’m just not one those parents who enjoy spending hours making play- dough creations (in fact, although my children have outgrown playdough, the very thought of the texture still makes me shudder). So I always encouraged my children to play independently, whether that was building Lego, mooching round the garden, or spending hours sitting in a box that was variously a castle, a racing car and an aeroplane. They did have real toys too, but for some reason empty boxes were always extremely popular - perhaps my kids are part cat? But think back to your own child- hood. How much of it was spent with your parents organising you into activities, undertaking craft projects with you, or taking you on days out, and how much of it was spent complaining you were bored and being told to go and read a book, or find something to do? Mine certainly involved a great deal of boredom, that in

12 Families west London October 2018 familiesonline.co.uk By Gill Sims turn led to imaginary worlds and are made to feel guilty about as this, it was astonishing how people and that perhaps then parents and our children quickly my children found Gill Sims is the bestselling author of Why Mummy Drinks, which led to me become a writer. occasionally being bored should themselves something more spent a staggering 30 weeks in Without a healthy dose of definitely not be one of them! interesting to do! the Sunday Times Top 10 and boredom, there is no incentive to If your child complains often of So, embrace boredom! Your was the bestselling debut hard- learn to think for ourselves, boredom, fill a jar with paper cherubs will thank you for it one back novel of 2017. or to change things to alleviate slips with tedious tasks written day. And even if they don’t Her second novel Why Mummy boredom! on them, like ‘tidy your room,’ ‘do appreciate what you are so Swears was published in Of course, I’m not suggesting the dusting,’ ‘weed a flowerbed,’ selflessly doing for them now, Hardback by HarperCollins in that children don’t deserve some ‘sort out your sock drawer.’ you might get a tidy house with July 2018. fun, special treats and parental Any time someone complains or impeccably ordered sock RRP £12.99. input. Just that sometimes, it boredom, they have to pick a drawers out of it! doesn’t hurt them to be bored. slip out randomly and complete There are enough things we the chore on it. When faced with

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Image credit: Perform familiesonline.co.uk October 2018 Families west London 13

Diary Dates & Events

WORKSHOPS FOR CHILDREN UNDER 5 BONFIRE NIGHT SAFETY 14 Oct LITTLE FEET: ANIMAL HOME Find DIARY DATES Remember, Did you know that sparklers burn at 200 6 Oct EALING 135 PRE-LOVED SALE out where in the world animals call home and Degrees Centigrade - 5 times hotter than Sell and buy baby and toddler items at programme a robot to help find them in the remember the 5th cooking oil? Kingsdown Methodist Church, Northfields galleries.11am-4pm, free. Whether you’re planning sparklers in Ave, London W13, 10.30am-12.30pm. If you of November…! the garden or a full-blown bonfire and would like to book a table please get in touch FOUNDLING MUSEUM fireworks, here are some simple tips to with Nilam Melvin at: ealing135prelovedsale WC1N 1AZ Your guide to Guy keep you safe this Bonfire Night. @gmail.com www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk 23 Oct BAGS OF EQUALITY Explore silk- Fawkes Night • Sparklers should not be given to 19-21 Oct THE BABY SHOW AT OLYMPIA screen printing, stencils and other printing children under 5 The UK's biggest pregnancy and parenting By Olivia Malaure techniques, then print slogans and images • Keep a bucket of cold water outside in event of the year, with over 200 baby retail- onto a canvas bag.11am-4.30pm for age 5+ Gunpowder, treason, and plot case of burn injuries ers all under one roof. It's a fantastic I see no reason why gunpowder 24 Oct INFLUENTIAL TEA Get ready for a • Children can be sensitive to loud noises, shopping event and will give nervous parents tea party and design your own teacup for an treason should ever be forgot. consider investing in a pair of ear the chance to speak to experts either one to The ‘plot’ was simple - to blow up The inspirational woman of the 21st century. defenders. one or hear from them live on stage as they Houses of Parliament with barrels of 11am-4.30pm for age 5+ • If you are planning to let off fireworks, tackle topics such as birth choices, gunpowder hidden in its cellar. 25 Oct JEWELLERY OF DISTINCTION consult the Firework Code at: breastfeeding, sleep, post-partum fitness and Guy Fawkes was given the job of lighting the Learn all about metal embossing techniques www.rospa.com weaning. From nursery furniture to feeding fuse but, on the 5 November 1605, the plot and make jewellery for one of the women • Keep pets indoors. Animals have acute equipment, slings to sleep aids, changing was discovered and he was taken to the who worked behind the scenes of the hearing and loud noises disturb them products to clothes, visitors will be spoilt for Tower Of London and executed. To celebrate Foundling Hospital. 11am-4.30pm for age 5+ • Remember, the safest way to celebrate choice. Tickets £20 on the door, discounted his own survival, King James 1 ordered his 26 Oct SPELLING OUT INJUSTICE Make a Bonfire Night is to attend an organised when booked ahead online. people to light a great bonfire every year on demonstration sandwich board and get your display www.thebabyshow.co.uk the night of 5 November. message across in this workshop led by You don’t have to go far to be part of the Sculpture Lab. 11am-4.30pm for age 5+ EALING CRICKET CLUB 4 Nov, Fireworks 25-27 Oct MUSEUMS AT NIGHT Explore crackle and fizz of Bonfire Night. New local this year will be set to classical and includes museums, galleries and heritage sites after fireworks events pop up annually, whilst the NATIONAL ARMY MUSEUM a laser display beforehand. Gates open at hours and enjoy a host of spooky events, biggest bonfire extravaganzas, (see below) 6pm and display starts at 7.45pm. Activities www.nam.ac.uk themed talks and immersive workshops late are firmly cemented in the calendar. If the include rides for children, glow novelties, 6 , 21, 28 Oct, 3, 10 Nov POPPY into the evening. idea of being outdoors with very young refreshments inc. bar and bbq. Venue: MAKING FAMILY CRAFTS Learn about www.museumsatnight.org.uk children on a cold November evening sends Corfton Road, Ealing W5 2HS Advanced the meaning of the Remembrance poppy a chill down your spine, here are some ideas booking at www.ealingcc.co.uk and make your own in a drop-in family 26 Oct EALING 135 HALLOWEEN PARTY to help you enjoy Bonfire Night at home. craft sessions and add it to the growing 10-11.30am at Northfields Community BRENTHAM CLUB EALING 3 Nov, Remembrance garden. Free, drop-in, Centre, W13 9SS. Start with a Bang: Children's entertainment and activities from 10.30am-4.30pm. [email protected] Kids love listening to the popping of 6pm. Fireworks start at 7.30pm. 13 Oct TANK WARS Command a microwave popcorn that they can munch on. www.brenthamclub.co.uk 29 Oct-4 Nov THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS Add some Colour: Make a rocket! Wrap remote-controlled tank and test your FAI R AT OLYMPIA Over 825 independent silver paper around an empty kitchen roll mettle with a series of challenges. RAVENSCOURT PARK 4 Nov Gates open stallholders and small business start-ups tube and stick down. Cut out a circle of Navigate an obstacle course, traverse at 6pm and children’s fireworks starts at showcase and sell their festive produce in coloured card (approx 9cm) and make a dangerou s ravines and battle it out with 7.15pm. Main firework display starts at a home of Christmas shopping. Browse a cone shape. Tape the cone to the top of the other tanks. How many rounds will you approximately 8pm. Under 5s go free. This plethora of gifts across fashion, home & cylinder. Decorate the cylinder with stickers last? 11am-3pm for ages 6+ year’s theme is based on the famous Full interiors, decorations, baby and child, pet and stick strips of red or orange cellophane 20, 22-27 Oct CRAFTING Moon beach parties in Thailand - colourful wear and male grooming; meet the makers to the bottom for flames. Kids can fly their COMMUNICATIONS TOOLS Construct music-filled celebrations after each full moon. and take advantage of exclusive show offers colourful creations around the garden! There will even be a playlist of moon hits your own signalling device. Learn how and competitions. 10am daily, tickets £28 for from the likes of Pink Floyd and Bruno Mars soldiers send and decipher secret signals unlimited entry, day tickets from £22.50, Bonfire Baked Potatoes: to accompany the fireworks spectacle. There with telescopes and heliographs. under 12 children free. Cook up edible bonfires! Fill jacket potatoes will also be a funfair, food stalls and bars. 10.30am-4.30pm, free, drop-in, for age 6+ www.spiritofchristmasfair.co.uk with child-friendly toppings. Sprinkle some Venue: Paddenwick Road, London W6 0UA. 23, 25 Oct SEEING, SIGNALLING AND Red Leicester cheese on top for flames, www.lbhf.gov.uk STORIES Bring your toddlers to this ses- 14 Oct KENSINGTON AND CHELSEA NCT or put the fire out with a spoonful of creme sion of stories and song all about commu- NEARLY NEW SALE Clothes for ages 0-7, fraiche on top! BISHOPS PARK 3 Nov Gates open at 6pm plus baby and toddler equipment, toys and nicating with telescopes and signals. and children’s fireworks starts at 7.15pm. 10.30am – 12pm for ages 3-6. books, 10am for members and 10.15am for Light Up the Night Sky: Main firework display starts at approximately non-members, close time 12 noon. Taking Kids love torches and they’ re a fun, safe way 8pm. There will be a funfair and place at Westbourne Grove Church, for them to play in the dark and enjoy the 11am-5pm. refreshments. Venue: Bishop's Ave, London NATIONAL GALLERY Westbourne Grove, London W11 2RW. atmosphere of Bonfire Night. SW6 6EA. www.lbhf.gov.uk [email protected] WC2N 5DN www.nationalgallery.org.uk TRAILFINDERS SPORTS CLUB 5 Nov Every Sun FAMILY SUNDAYS Activities Gates open at 6pm and firework display designed for families to enjoy and learn starts at 7.30pm. Bar, sweet stand, food together, 11am and 3pm. stalls, stilt walkers and fire eaters! Venue: MAGIC CARPET STORYTELLING Vallis Way, West Ealing, London W13 0DD. For children aged 2-5. Sundays 10.30-11am www.tfsc.co.uk and 11.30am–12pm. Fly away on the magic carpet, coming to land in front of a different painting each day. Every Weds WELCOME WEDNESDAYS MUSEUMS AND Bring paintings to life through interactive GALLERIES music, storytelling, art and messy play activities. Every Wednesday, 10.30 and BRITISH MUSEUM 11.30am for walkers under age five, 1pm for WC1B 3DG sitting babies to walkers. www.britishmuseum.org DIGITAL WORKSHOPS Takes place at weekends and school holidays on a variety What’s On listings of themes. Free, 11am-4pm, for ages 7+ continue on page 16 (unless stated).

14 Families west London October 2018 familiesonline.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk October 2018 Families west London 15 What’s On

HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS 22 Oct MESSY MONDAYS: EXPLORING THE STUDIO Drop-in session for children under 5 years. Become a mini artist by exploring materials and mark making in a tactile environment inspired by a painting. 10.30am and 12.30pm. 22, 24, 25, 26 Oct A RENAISSANCE FAMILY BUSINESS Work together as a family of artists in the Renaissance workshop to seek out and sample traditional tech- niques. Drop-in session, 11am-4pm for all ages. 24, 25 Oct ARTIST'S APPRENTICE WORKSHOP: THE FAMILY PRINTWORKS Team up to work a printmaker’s studio. Spend a day in the life of a working artist and learn about screen-printing to create new designs. For ages 8-13, advanced booking essential, 11am-3.30pm. 26 Oct SMALL CREATURE SKETCHING WITH ZOOLAB Creepy-crawlies come out of the paintings and onto the page. Hear from ZooLab experts and get up-close to sketch from real animals, bugs, and insects. For ages 5-11, advanced booking essential, 10.30-11.15am

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk Until 6 Jan 19 LIFE IN THE DARK Leave daylight behind and put your senses to the Feline fables and folktales at the test in this illuminating exhibition. Kids go BRITISH LIBRARY free. Until 30 Dec THE WIDER EARTH This is a play about the story of a young Charles Wallace’s rather wacky collection of 24 Oct STORM IN A TEACUP The history, Darwin, on HMS Beagle’s daring voyage to WALLACE COLLECTION sixteenth-century wax sculptures. Learn science and art of all things chai, served with the far side of the world. Discover the W1U 3BN about the technique and then have a go at a special blend of dynamic story-telling, gripping story behind one of the most www.wallacecollection.org making one yourself. dramatic adventure and brilliant botany. important discoveries in history. For age 8+ 7 Nov THE LITTLE DRAW Free drop-in 24 Oct AUTUMNAL LEAF MOBILES Free, 25 Oct LOTIONS AND MAGIC POTIONS Every weekend INVESTIGATE FOR drawing workshop for all ages and abilities. drop-in art workshop for families Create your Learn how the power of plants can heal and FAMILIES Explore hundreds of real nature With artist Grace Holliday. She will invite own mobile structure decorated with leaves soothe, make some of your own natural and specimens that form the evidence Museum participants to use specialist drawing, and golden frames using the Collection of Sir low-cost healing potions and plant a mini scientists use in their daily work. Drop-in, handling and surface design techniques to Richard Wallace as your starting point. medicinal garden to take-away. 11am-5pm. respond to the stimulating forms and colour 26 Oct STORYTELLING SHOW: DOUBLE, 10.30am-2.30pm for ages: 8+ Every Sun until 23 Dec ADVENTURE TO palettes of the Wallace Collection. Suitable DOUBLE, TOIL AND TROUBLE Meet an THE DEEP Kids will dive through a reef, for all the family.1:30 - 4:30pm, all ages. Elizabethan innkeeper who needs a CUTTY SARK come face-to-face with a giant squid and see 20 Oct FAMILY FIL M SCREENING: theatrical entertainment to rival SE10 9NF if they have what it takes to survive 3,000 THE PIRATES! IN AN ADVENTURE WITH Mr S hakespeare for her Hallowe’en www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark metres below the surface. For age 6+. SCIENTISTS Swashbuckling animation celebrations. She has had an idea for a play Every weekend: CUTTY SARK 13 Oct, 10 Nov DINO SNORES Ever adventure for all the family to enjoy. Before about a Scottish king who dabbles in CHARACTERS Come aboard to hear Cutty wondered what goes on at the Natural or after the film make sure you pick up a witchcraft. Come and help her put her ideas Sark’s incredible stories brought to life by History Museum at night? 7 - 11 years. 7pm copy of the Pirate treasure hunt trail and go into action with a little inspiration from the characters from the ship’s past. Suitable for till morning, torchlit trails through the muse- on your own museum adventure. Free weaponry and art in the Collection. ages 3+ um, live animal shows and more. 23 Oct WACKY WAXES Art workshop for Free, for age 5+ Every Weds TODDLER TIME Bring your For ages 7-11. children ages 9 - 13. Take a look at Richard little sailors along for songs, stories and WILLIAM MORRIS SOCIETY playtime on board. 10-11.30am for ages 4 W6 9TA and under. www.williammorrissociety.org.uk 6, 7 Oct CARRY YOUR CARGO Use all 24 Oct PRINTING WITH LIGHT A workshop your creative skills to stamp, print a nd design in two parts for children 6-12 years. Be your own tote bag to carry your belongings. inspired by the exhibition of photographs 11.30am and 2pm for ages 4+ “Drawing with Light” to: Session 1: Create 22-27 Oct SHE TELLS SEA TALES: your own photo using sunlight and autumn ADVENTURE IS OUT THERE Tales of leaves and berries Session 2: Then create a adventure, mermaids and storms in a teacup. 2019 calendar to frame your unique sun Also make your own adventure kid suitcase print. 10am-12.30pm. or create your own animated sea story with Chocolate Films. Activities vary throughout the week so please check our website for DAYS OUT details 10.30am-4pm, for ages 3+ CHELSEA PHYSIC GARDEN FULHAM PALACE SW3 4HS SW6 6EA www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk www.fulhampalace.org Environmentally themed workshops all every Mon and Tues THE PALACE summer long. EXPLORERS A weekly parent/carer and Giant LEGO brick animal trail 23 Oct CHOCOLATE TUESDAY Learn toddler sessions for children aged 2-4. LONDON WETLANDS CENTRE about chocolate, take part in craft activities. £3 per child, which includes a drink and For ages 6-10, 10.30am-3pm. healthy snack.

16 Families west London October 2018 familiesonline.co.uk 7 Oct APPLE DAY CELEBRATION Displays HAMPTON COURT PALACE 20 - 28 Oct BEAST QUEST Vanquish the HOLLAND PARK ECOLOGY CENTRE and tastings, live music, bee keeping and beasts unleashed throughout the palace in KT8 9AU W8 6LU wood turning demonstrations, a hotly this brand-new immersive family experience. www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace www.rbkc.gov.uk/subsites/wildlife.aspx anticipated baking competition, children’s embark on an interactive journey around the until 28 Oct THE MAGIC GARDEN Come 22-26 Oct HALF TERM WORKSHOPS activities, storytelling, refreshments and palace and undertake a variety of fun tasks face to face with mysterious mythical beasts, environmental themed activities for ages 5- more. Free, no booking necessary. along the way. The evil Malvel has cast a storm the battlements, besiege the towers 10 which utilise the centre and wooded 11am-3pm. spell over the palace, bringing the fantasy and explore the secret grotto. Each area Wildlife Area. The fun packed programme 21 Oct HANDS-ON ARCHAEOLOGY: Beast Quest world to life. The beasts are represents myths, legends, stories and even includes outdoor activities like minibeast TREE PIT DIG Learn more about the rich under his w icked spell and he must be real objects that can be found at Hampton hunting and nature trails, and animal themed and defeated! From the phoenix on the roof of Court. craft sessions. varied history of this ancient site and what the Great Watching Chamber, to the Royal 7 Oct STORYTELLING Immerse yourselves the recent Apple Arch Dig uncovered. Lion in the Chapel Court Garden, it’s time to in the sights, sounds and smells of history. experience these impressive beasts and WHAT’S ON LISTINGS Help tell the palace stories through rhymes, meet the heroes Tom and Elena. role-play and song. CONTINUE ON PAGE 18

Classes forFrom Boys and Baby Girls toaged Ballerina 21/2 to 16 years old Ballet, Pointe Work, Jazz, Tap, Annual Performances

Classes held in: Bayswater, Notting Hill Gate, Oxford Street, Shepherds Bush and South Kensington

familiesonline.co.uk October 2018 Families west London 17 What’s On

25 Oct BATTY BATS: ECOLOGY CENTRE THE LONDON WETLANDS CENTRE OPEN AFTERNOON Discover the nocturnal SW13 9WT world of bats. Find out more about bat www.wwt.org.uk ecology and what types of bats live in 6 Oct-18 Nov GIANT LEGO® BRICK Holland Park. Take part in craft activities ANIMAL TRAIL The amazing animal trail is including mask making, bat books and bat returning with three new friends - Sam the models. Drop-in 12 noon to 4pm. short-eared owl, Walter the water vole and 2, 9 Nov CHILDREN’S NIGHT SAFARIS Skye the stork. Book your place on one of A fun filled evening to search for the Park’s the LEGO workshops to take part in exciting n octurnal inhabitants and explore the woods challenges and build your own miniature at night. All children must be accompanied version of Sam the short-eared owl to take by an adult. Please bring a torch with you. home! For ages 5-8 on 3 Nov and 8-12 on 10 Nov. Booking essential ODDS FARM PARK THEATRE AND HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk CONCERTS Signalling and communications at the A FABULOUS DAY OUT AT THE FARM! NATIONAL ARMY MUSEUM Meet the farmers and get close to the BECK THEATRE animals in the hands-on area and in the UB3 2UE off the page and onto the stage in this large undercover animal barns. There is a www.becktheatre.org.uk LYRIC HAMMERSMITH magical journey through the seasons. massive adventure play area with a four lane 3 Oct VIENNA FESTIVAL BALLET: W6 0QL A playful story of love and nature as it astra slide, two drop slides, a netted area COPPELIA Following the adventures of www.lyric.co.uk unfolds on stage through puppets, live music with zig zag chicanes and tunnels, swinging eccentric toymaker, Dr. Coppelius with his 6 Oct THREE LITTLE PIG TAILS A brand and interactive play for ages 3+ ropes and much more. Also a special Toddler beloved doll on an enchanting evening of new version of the classic story of the 3 little and Under 5’s areas. mischief, frivolity and a lovers‘ tiff. Colourful pigs. A grumpy old wolf wants some pigs' SOUTHBANK CENTRE costumes, lively characters and beautiful 20-28 Oct HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL: tails for his soup. Will the little pigs outwit the SE1 8PX music promises to delight audiences of all PIG-A-BOO! Enjoy exciting daily Halloween wolf and what kind of house will they build? www.southbankcentre.co.uk ages. Shows and pick your own pumpkin to carve For ages 3-7. Every Mon DRAGON BABIES Bring your 21 Oct RAPUNZEL In a far away land, in and take home! Plus, discover the frightfully 13 Oct THE BOY WHO CRIED WOLF Jacob little ones to shake, rattle and gong. a lonely tower lives the beautiful princess fun Crafty Trick or Treat Walk, with even is a young boy who loves to be playful. Gamelan for ages 3-5. Rapunzel. Captured as a child by Mother more surprises. When he is given the responsibility of being Every Mon GONG BABIES GAMELAN Gothel, she uses Rapunzels magical hair to the village shepherd his wild imagination Bring your babies aged under six months for OSTERLEY PARK AND HOUSE upkeep her youth and beauty. An exciting leads him astray... For ages 3-10. a fun music workshop, with no experience TW7 4RD mix of familiar songs and original 20 Oct HOW TO HIDE A LION When a lion required. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley-park-and- compositions. is chased out of town, Iris embarks on a Every Fri RUG RHYMES FOR THE UNDER house 24, 25 Oct BING GOES TO THE THEATRE mission to squash her new friend into a FIVES A short session of nursery rhymes, Every Sun JUNIOR PARKRUN A free timed Join Bing, Sula, Coco and Pando as they variety of tight spots as the town folk try to poems and rhyming stories, and the run around the front lawn area of Osterley as find out how to tell stories by pretending, track him down. For ages 3-6. opportunity to look at and borrow books. part of the national Junior parkrun series for dressing-up and singing songs. A show full of 23-27 Oct PIRATE PEARL AND THE BIG Free but booking essential. 4-14 year olds. fun, laughter and music, perfect first theatre BLUE MONSTER Pirate Pearl lives aboard 20, 23-25 Oct FAMILY GAMELAN TASTER 21-29 Oct HALLOWE'EN PUMPKIN trip for pre-schoolers and their families. the good ship Mirabel with her crusty old SESSION Play in a Javanese gamelan per- FESTIVAL Play silly games, jump around in shipmate - Grandpa Bert. One day, she finds cussion orchestra. For age 6+ crunchy leaves, toast marshmallows on the CAMBRIDGE THEATRE a stowaway aboard the ship. It’s a little blue 14 Oct FUNHARMONICS: THE HIGHWAY open fire pits, make wild art in the garden, WC2H 9HU monster. There’s trouble ahead for Pirate RAT A new animated special based on the find the hidden pumpkins in the house and www.matildathemusical.com Pearl! For ages 3-11. picture book written by Julia Donaldson, with carve your scariest face on your own Booking until Feb 2019 MATILDA THE 3 Nov THE TIME SEEKERS Have you ever the animated film projected on big screen, pumpkin between 11am and 4pm. MUSICAL The Royal Shakespeare dreamt of seeing a dinosaur? Meeting an and live music performed by the LPO. 27, Sat 28 Oct EVENING TOUR A creepy Company’s production of Roald Dahl’s Ancient Egyptian? Sharing tea time with a 18-25 Oct PRAM JAM: WORDS AND evening tour of Osterley - discover the darker magical story about a girl with extraordinary robot? A thrilling journey through time where RHYMES Start off your day with nursery side of this Georgian party manor's history. powers. you take the steering wheel. For ages 3-8. rhymes, poems and rhyming stories with 7-8.30pm. your child aged under 5. PUPPET THEATRE BARGE 22 Oct THE BOLDS Join writer Julian Clary W9 2PF and illustrator David Roberts for another www.puppetbarge.com hilarious tale from their children’s book 20 Oct-18 Nov THE TOWN MOUSE AND series, The Bolds, about a family of hyenas. THE COUNTRY MOUSE These two famous Hear the story accompanied by live mouse cousins take it in turns to visit one illustration. another. Each mouse ends up much the 25 Oct KNIGHTS AND BIKES Gabrielle wiser as a result of their exciting adventures. Kent, author of the Alfie Bloom series, A delight for young and old, told with rod introduces her new mystery novel for ages puppets, music and sing- along songs. 8+. Welco me to the sleepy Cornish island of Penfurzy, where nothing exciting ever RICHMOND THEATRE happens. Or does it? TW9 1QJ 26 Oct LIZ PICHON'S MONSTER FUN www.atgtickets.com/Richmond WITH TOM GATES As well as reading from 3-7 Oct HORRIBLE HISTORIES - the newest book in the series, Tom Gates: TERRIBLE TUDORS From the horrible What Monster?, the illustrator and children's Henries to the end of evil Elizabeth, hear the writer shows you how to draw your own legends (and the lies!) about the torturing monsters plus a live performance from Tom’s Tudors. favourite band in the whole wide world - 4-7 Oct AWFUL EGYPTIANS From the Dude3. Age 7+ fascinating Pharaohs to the power of the 27 Oct SOUTHBANK SI NFONIA FAMILY pyramids, discover the foul facts of death CONCERT In the concert, specially-made and decay with the meanest mummies in videos and projections provide up-close Egypt. It’s the history of Egypt wit h the nasty Pirate Pearl and the Big Blue Monster at the insight into the music being played, then bits left in! afterwards you can meet the musicians and LYRIC HAMMERSMITH 9, 10 Oct GUESS HOW MUCH I LOVE YOU try out their instruments. For ages 5-11. Join Little & Big Nutbrown Hare, as they leap

18 Families west London October 2018 familiesonline.co.uk Half Term Workshops

THEATRE ROYAL DRURY LANE WC2B 5JF www.reallyuseful.com/theatres/theatre- royal-drury-lane Until 5 Jan 42ND STREET the song and dance, American dream fable of Broadway. Young Peggy Sawyer is fresh off the bus from small-town America and just another face in the chorus line on Broadway’s newest show. But when the leading lady gets injured, Peggy might just have the shot at stardom she's always dreamed of... For age 5+

UNICORN THEATRE SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com Until 27 Oct MOUTH OPEN, STORY JUMP OUT Polarbear makes things up. This is about the moment that started it all, and how one little decision set off a chain reaction that changed his life forever. International assassins, secret codes, dog- eating boa constrictors and more emerge when a father disappears and a boy discovers a talent for telling tales. For ag es 8-11. 23-28 Oct ON THE ROAD A wordless story told using sound, dance and movement to explore what it feels like to be a refugee and the universal need we have to belong. Castaway Island at For ages 8-12. PERFORM DRAMA

CONCERTS songs, percussion and the chance to meet HOLLAND PARK ECOLOGY CENTRE KIDS COOKERY SCHOOL BACH TO BABY some exciting instruments up close. SCIENCE AND N ATURE www.thekidscookeryschool.co.uk www.bachtobaby.com/londonnorth 27 Oct FAMILY DAY: AUTUMN SENSES www.rbkc.gov.uk/ecology 22-26 Oct Cookery workshops for ages 3-14 All concerts at 10.30am. Join music leader Georgia Duncan to explore 22-26 Oct CHILDREN’S HOLIDAY in Acton. 31 Oct in Kensington senses during this season, and be inspired ACTIVITIES AT THE ECOLOGY CENTRE (Christ Church, Victoria Road, W8) to create your own music and soundscapes. runs outdoor and creative activities utilising WILLIAM MORRIS SOCIETY 22 Oct in Notting Hill For ages 5+ the park and wooded Wildlife Area. For ages www.williammorrissociety.org.uk (St. John's Church, Lansdowne Crescent, 3 Nov FAMILY CONCERT: THE KING WITH 4-8 and longer sessions for ages 8-12. 24 Oct Workshop for ages 6-12: “Printing W11) DONKEY EARS A morning of musical story- 10am-12 noon and 2-4pm. with Light” Be inspired by the exhibition of 26 Oct in Chiswick telling for families, inspired by this traditional photographs. 10.30am-12.30 pm A workshop (St. Michael and All Angels, Bath Road, W4) Somali folk tale. For age 5+ CHISWICK THEATRE ARTS in two sessions: 20 Oct in Ealing 8 Nov FOR CRYING OUT LOUD! Hear www.chiswicktheatrearts.com Session 1: Create your own photo using (Haven Green Baptist Church, W5 2DP) outstanding performances by musicians from 22-26 Oct 3 Hour workshops for ages 3-8 sunlight and autumn leaves and berries. the Royal Academy of Music in these con- 9.30am - 12.30pm. Session 2: Create a 2019 calendar to frame ROYAL ALBERT HALL certs presented especially for parents or 22 Oct The Ice Queen & Rapunzel your unique sun print. Advanced booking SW7 2AP carers and babies under 1 to enjoy together 23 Oct Disney Magic required. Location: Hammersmith www.royalalberthall.com in a relaxed and accommodating 24 Oct Fairies and Pirates 11, 18, 23 Oct, 7 Nov STORYTELLING AND environment. 25 Oct Incredible Super Heroes EALING TRAILFINDERS MUSIC SESSIONS A series of sessions for 26 Oct Spooky Halloween www.ealingtrailfinders1stxv.com/news/ babies and toddlers aged 0-4, to encourage Full Day Workshops for 6-14 years, october-half-term-camp-at-ealing-trailfinders- interaction between parents/carers and their 10.15am - 4.00pm book little ones using musical instruments, singing, HALF TERM 22 Oct The Greatest Showman 23-25 Oct Three-day camp for children aged movement and stories. 10am and 11.30am, 23 Oct Broadway Bound Day 6-12 who are aiming to improve their rugby £5. WORKSHOPS 24 Oct ‘Thriller’ Dance workshop skills. Professionally coached to a high level, 13 Oct FUN DMC A daytime family block PERFORM DRAMA, DANCE AND SINGING 24 Oct Hamilton with a focus on development whilst ensuring party in town, featuring the best hip hop www.perform.org.uk/castaway 26 Oct ‘Orrible ‘Alloween! there is the main aim of fun and enjoyment. tunes with live projected music videos as 22-24 Oct CASTAWAY ISLAND: Venue: 2 Belmont Road, Chiswick W4 5BQ. First team players will also be joining in with well as games and activities. PERFORM’S THREE DAY OCTOBER Call 020 8742 2861 coaching, and there will be the opportunity 26 Oct ALBERT'S BAND PRESENTS: HALF-TERM COURSE FOR 4-10’s email: [email protected] for kids to take part in a Q&A to get an SHOWTIME Perfect for the whole family, this An imaginative adventure filled with drama, insight in to being a professional. 9am-3pm. fun-packed hour will feature famous tunes song and dance. Prepare to climb aboard HYDE PARK EDUCATION CENTRE Call 07792852695 from some of the big-screen musicals The Jammy Dodger as they voyage to a www.supporttheroyalparks.org/events/ or email: [email protected] including West Side Story, The Jungle Book tropical island of lush sandy beaches and events_in_hyde_park and The Wizard of Oz. Buggies, babies and Caribbean sounds. Joining Long Gone Silver, 23 Oct Nature Explorers: Wild Filmakers For budding musicians all welcome! the Pirates Pants Gang and the Mermaids ages 8-11, a full day of of guided outdoor See all the latest news, 27 Oct JAZZ FOR KIDS - JAZZ IN THE of the Pink Lagoon, the team of theatre games and activities. Children will be taking MOVIES A concert aimed at children of all professionals will take your child on a photographs of the wildlife in Hyde Park and views and What’s On ages and their families to enjoy. sparkling adventure using confidence using them for discussion.10am-3pm. listings on our lovely, building games, songs and dances, topped 24, 25 Oct Discovery Day: Hair-raising WIGMORE HALL off with a mini-musical performance on the Halloween. Halloween themed activities shiny website: W1U 2PB last day. For ages 4-10, 10am-3pm in including exploring feely boxes in the witches www.wigmore-hall.org.uk Kensington at the URC Kensington United den, a hair-raising nature trail , creating www.famililiesonline 3 Oct CHAMBER TOTS: AUTUMN, 18 Oct, Reform Church, Allen St, London W8 6BL. potions using herbs and plants and building 7 Nov CHAMBER TOTS: BEAR HUNT An Call 020 7255 9120 a bat box. 11am-3pm. .co.uk interactive music-making workshop featuring or email: [email protected] familiesonline.co.uk October 2018 Families west London 19 PERFORM JUMP LDN Activities, Clubs & Classes Weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4- Empowers people through Double Dutch 12s. Perform is a unique children’s drama school Skipping! Double Dutch is a socially fun sport that has a special emphasis on child develop- and street game which promotes teamwork, environment. Students aged 4 to 18 years are ment. Perform uses a mix of drama, dance and communication and unity. MUSIC AND MOVEMENT taught by a professional and experienced team singing to bring out every child’s full potential. Harrow Club, 187 Freston Rd, London W10 6TH HARTBEEPS of teachers. They offer two-week trials for all Run by highly experienced actor-teachers, JUMP YOUTH: 6pm-7pm (16yrs and under) Award-winning, original, multi-sensory musical new students so that your child can try the in small groups, Perform classes focus on JUMP FITNESS: 7pm-8pm (16yrs and over) baby and toddler classes with original music, class out. developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, e: [email protected] bubbles, costumes, twinkles, sparkly parachutes, To enrol go to: www.stagecoach.co.uk Communication, Coordination, and www.facebook.com/jumpldn1 www.jumpldn.com puppets and more. Classes in West Kensington, [email protected] Concentration. The perform curriculum ensures North Kensington, Notting Hill, Shepherds Bush Chiswick - 020 8398 4709 plenty of fun, using a mix of energetic games, TUITION SUPPORT and Maida Vale. Hammersmith & Kensington: 020 8398 8106 catchy songs and funky dances. All class t: 07738 522856 Ealing: 01494 260249 materials are written by Perform, with apps, CDs EXPLORE LEARNING Classes in Ealing, Fulham, Putney, Kew, Chiswick, and videos that the children can play at home to Maths & English Tuition Centres. 5 -14 years. Hammersmith, Wandsworth, Barnes and Acton. WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY keep the magic alive. Perform offer no-obligation Free Trial session. Ballet classes in Chiswick & Ealing. FREE trial sessions. Visit: www.perform.org.uk/try Ealing 020 8090 8710 DANCE Free Trial Lesson. to book a FREE class today. Hayes 020 8561 8530 e: [email protected] t: 07795 578781 Westfield London 020 809 01216 BALLET4LIFE Venues: Acton, Brook Green, Chiswick, Ealing, www.westlondondanceacademy.com www.explorelearning.co.uk Since 2004. Ballet4life offers top quality. Earls Court, ,Hammersmith, Ickenham, Welcoming daily ballet, dance and fitness classes WEST LONDON SCHOOL OF DANCE Kensington, Maida Vale, Notting Hill, VICTORIA PAGE 1 taught by professionals. All classes are held in 2 /2 - 16 years. Shepherds Bush, Turnham Green. Private tuition 21/2 - 11 years. large dance studios and our programme includes t: 020 8743 3856 e: [email protected] t: 07050 246 810 creative dance classes for kids, beginner [email protected] t: 020 7255 9120 www.westlondonschoolofdance.co.uk www.perform.org.uk/try VIVIEN BORNEMANN ballet and barre courses, and dance fitness. Home tuition. Art, Craft and design. All ages. Mums and babies welcome. STAGECOACH PERFORMING ARTS t: 020 8932 1010. www.ballet4life.com DRAMA Provide fun and engaging weekly classes in Follow us: @ballet4lifeuk ARTSED EXTRA dance, drama and singing in a safe and happy Like us: www.facebook.com/ballet4life.uk/ Fun and engaging weekly Musical Theatre, environment. Students aged 4 to 18 years are BABY YOGA & MASSAGE Drama and Dance classes in Chiswick. taught by a professional and experienced team WEST LONDON BABIES DANCE GALLERY Develop skills and grow in confidence! of teachers. They offer two-week trials for all Chiswick Sling Library, Family First Aid session, Dance Gallery is Ealing’s leading dance school Available to children 4-16yrs of all abilities. new students so that your child can try the class Breastfeeding Buddy sessions and Pregnant and specialises in modern, jazz, tap and musical e: [email protected] · t: 020 8987 6692 out. To enrol go to: www.stagecoach.co.uk Parents Social Club. Also The Bub Hub which theatre productions for children aged 4-18 years. www.artsed.co.uk e: [email protected] runs every fortnight and is a collective of t: 0208 566 9672 www.dancegallery.co.uk Chiswick: 020 8398 4709 professionals working together to support HUZZAH parents during the first year of their baby's life. KENSINGTON BALLET Hammersmith & Kensington: 020 8398 8106 Performing Arts & Mindfulness Mums of More than One, 6-12 month old focus 18 months - 2 years. Ealing: 01494 260249 Build confidence from the inside out with a and lots more. Kensington, Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Huzzah weekly class. Drama, dance, singing t: 020 8090 8710 Notting Hill and Fulham. and a touch of mindfulness. Ages 4 - 7. FOOTBALL/SPORTS t: 07957 650 042 www.kensingtonballet.com KIDDIKICKS Saturd ay 1 - 2.20pm in Queen's Park. LANGUAGES STAGECOACH PERFROMING ARTS Sunday’s 10 - 11.30am in West Hampstead. Football (W2,W4,W8,W10,W11,TW8). Creative, calm, confident kids. For boys and girls from 18 months to age 7. ARABIC Provide fun and engaging weekly classesn i For Women and Children. Female teacher. dance, drama and singing in a safe and happy Sign up for a FREE TRAIL at: e: [email protected] · t: 020 7937 7965 www.huzzahperformingarts.com www.kiddikicks.co.uk t: 07956 845 053

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