FREEtake me home!

RECRUITING NOW Successful ‘business mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside IN THIS ISSUE and without compromising family commitments or current career.

Education focus If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed What’s on in background, or you wish to develop September & an extraordinary lifestyle please call Katie Bridge October 07909 681884

Helping children believe they can do anything

Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds

CHEAM & WORCESTER PARK SUTTON stagecoach.co.uk/ stagecoach.co.uk/sutton cheamandworcesterpark SHIRLEY COULSDON & CATERHAM stagecoach.co.uk/shirley stagecoach.co.uk/coulsdon

CROYDON stagecoach.co.uk/

EPSOM stagecoach.co.uk/epsom

Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.

Issuefamiliesonline.co.uk 88 September/October 2019 familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Surrey Borders Call us on 01737 355332

Banstead Opening Autumn 2019

For viewings and enquiries contact us now!

Spacious, bright environment with an indoor soft play area and fully enclosed garden

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Epsom Banstead Reigate 21 West Street, KT18 7RL 28a High Street, SM7 2LJ 11 Lynn Walk, RH2 7NZ 01372 877863 01737 355332 01737 221441

2www.shapesdaynursery.co.ukFamilies London Surrey Borders familiesonline.co.uk Call us on 01737 355332 Welcome to issue 88

Adventure time! The start of a new academic year, and the kaleidoscopic cycle of nature as she turns from bright sunshine to the warm colours of autumn. This issue we bring you a plethora of events and activities to enjoy over September and October, and a selection on Bonfire Night activities. Before the winter arrives, get out and enjoy the last of London Surrey Borders the autumn warmth. Wishing all your little one’s huge amounts of happiness, as they set out into a new academic year. Editor Tamar Pearson Happy reading! [email protected] Tamar Design Rebecca Carr xx [email protected]

Printer Print Mates In this issue 3. News & Views Banstead 21,000 copies printed 42,000 readers per issue 4. Local news

Next issue November/December 5. Clubs & classes news Booking deadline 4 October 8. Eduation news Cover Image Depositphotos Opening Autumn 2019 12. Education feature

Follow us on Facebook for all the 13. Independent school open days latest news and events happening your local area 14. What’s on

www.facebook.com/FamiliesLSBMag 19. What’s on at the theatre

DO YOU WANT TO PROMOTE YOUR Hear echoes of the For viewings and enquiries BUSINESS TO 40,000+ past at Polesden Voices PARENTS? Exhibition contact us now! Families LSB Magazine can help promote your business to over 40,000 Polesden Lacey is known as the weekend parents in the local area. party house of Dame Margaret Greville, the The booking deadline for our Nov/ indomitable Edwardian socialite who used it Dec issue is 4 October. To be included to entertain royalty and high society, including contact: Winston Churchill, Beverly Nichols and Queen Ena of Spain. Tamar on Spacious, bright environment 07947 535986 or email: The research team at Polesden Lacey have conducted hundreds of interviews over the [email protected] years with people, and the families of people who lived and worked at Polesden Lacey during Mrs Greville’s time. These recollections have been painstakingly compiled and are now brought to life in this new exhibition, telling the stories of the men and women with an indoor soft play area Families London Surrey Borders is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the who lived, worked, and made their own special memories at Polesden Lacey over the last group are independently owned and operated under licence. century. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham and fully enclosed garden House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families London Surrey Borders Step inside one of the parties that Mrs Greville held for the village children each summer, are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or learn about estate manager Mr Hepburn and his prize-winning turkeys and even discover photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families London Surrey Borders. Every care is who found love at Polesden Lacey. taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families London Surrey Borders; our distributors, the franchise company, Echoes of the Past runs from Mon 9 September – Thursday 14 November. Usual admission Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy applies; admission is free to National Trust members. of the contents, or any consequence thereof. For job opportunities contact More info: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesden-lacey [email protected]

Epsom Banstead Reigate 21 West Street, KT18 7RL 28a High Street, SM7 2LJ 11 Lynn Walk, RH2 7NZ 01372 877863 01737 355332 01737 221441

www.shapesdaynursery.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk Families London Surrey Borders 3 News & Reviews Croydon crowned with London’s seconded largest National Nature Visit the Family Reserve Learning South London Downs, London’s third National Nature Reserve Festival (NNR) has recently opened to the public in Croydon. The Family Learning Festival which runs from 19 October Bordering Croydon and Surrey, the 417-hectare reserve is to 3 November is a national surrounded with stunning views across south London. celebration to inspire a love of learning in family life. Marian Spain, interim Chief Executive of Natural England, said: “I am delighted that we can now formally declare the South Organisations across the UK, including schools, libraries, museums, London Downs as London’s third National Nature Reserve. The children centres and galleries will be staging a range of FREE new NNR will make a huge difference to South London’s wildlife creative family learning activities. and the lives of Londoners by giving them access to some of the country’s very best wildlife in beautiful open spaces right on This year’s Festival theme is ‘Future Families’ and organisers will be their doorsteps, demonstrating why London is indeed a National holding activities to encourage families to become earthy explorers, Park City. digital discoverers or wellbeing warriors! “This site will be celebrated for years to come as an iconic Organisers of the festival, the lifelong learning charity, Campaign for natural sanctuary in South London, a haven for wildlife and a Learning, believes learning that takes place in the family and home centre for learning. should be valued as much as learning that takes place in school classrooms and formal education. The family is where we learn More info: www.croydon.gov.uk important life skills and positive attitudes to learning, which enable us to become confident, motivated lifelong learners.

To find a local event, visit www.familylearningfestival.com Free Family Fun with Heritage Active Girls are Open Days Happy Girls This year, Heritage Open Days is celebrating its 25th A new report has found that anniversary and will be the girls that are physically active biggest and most diverse to are happier and more resilient date. than those who are not. Running from 13 to 22 September, this The findings are drawn from of annual celebration of England’s history a survey from more than 25,700 and culture, allows visitors’ FREE primary and secondary aged children by the national children’s access to historical landmarks that are charity, the Youth Sport Trust. either not usually open to the public, or would normally charge an entrance fee. More active girls showed higher levels of the qualities associated with wellbeing which are self-belief, confidence, resilience, Nationwide there will be hundreds happiness and empathy. The largest difference was seen in girls’ of FREE interactive activities for children, including dressing up, resilience. 77% of more active girls said they were resilient crafting, woodland walks and railway rides. compared to 46% of less active girls. It also found that more active girls were happier with 75% stating so compared to 55% With a theme of ‘People Power,’ this year’s festival will offer visitors of less active girls. more opportunities than ever to discover the secret history of their towns, villages and countryside. Ali Oliver, the Chief Executive of the Youth Sport Trust says: “We owe every girl the opportunity to become a confident mover, find Co-ordinated nationally by the National Trust with support from a sport or activity that she enjoys, and through that experience the People’s Postcode Lottery, the celebration brings together improved physical health and emotional wellbeing.” thousands of organisations and properties across England.

More info: www.youthsporttrust.org/girls-active For local events visit, www.heritageopendays.org.uk

Promote your business in our next issue Education I Tuition I What’s on... plus Where is Santa? Pantomimes and family shows Christmas events & activities

Book today! Call 07947 535986 I [email protected]

4 Families London Surrey Borders familiesonline.co.uk Clubs & classes news Improving your Child’s Concentration Perform and parenting expert and child psychologist, Dr Claire Halsey offer their tips.

Concentration is a vital life skill which develops from birth. Linked closely to brain development, it improves alongside a child’s memory and ability to organise their thoughts.

Set Up for Success - Reduce big distractions: television, music and screen time make it difficult to listen and concentrate, so limit these to set times.

Make it Fun - Make activities fun as your child is more likely to pay attention eg tidying up A Confident Start with toys is less of a chore when you offer a tickle to the child who finishes first! Jigsaw Performing Arts Keep Practising - Games and activities can build concentration. Choose turn-taking games A new school year is here - time to try like Snap or Picture Dominoes or those with simple instructions. something new with your weekend? Our popular dance, singing and drama Praise the Good Stuff - Praise your child when they focus rather than highlighting when weekend classes for 3-18-year-olds are they don’t eg “Well done for sticking with that puzzle.” designed to develop children’s confidence, self-expression, focus and social skills, while Seek Advice - A small number of children have difficulty paying attention no matter how having fun and making lots of new friends. hard they try. Ask your child’s teacher for suggestions. If you’re still concerned, see your GP.

Parents share in the excitement and More from Dr Claire Halsey at www.clairehalsey.com their children’s progress with regular presentations, shows and reports from our Perform offers concentration-boosting drama classes in Purley. team of highly experienced teachers. More about Perform Weekly Drama, Dance and Singing Classes for 4 – 12’s For more information or to book a two-week Perform is a unique children’s drama school that has a special emphasis on child trial, search for your nearest school www. development. Perform uses a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s full jigsaw-arts.co.uk or call us on 020 8447 4530 potential. Run by highly experienced actor-teachers, in small groups, Perform classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Coordination, and Concentration.

The perform curriculum ensures plenty of fun, using a mix of energetic games, catchy songs Don’t forget to say you saw these and funky dances. All class materials are written by Perform, with apps, CDs and videos that advertised in the children can play at home to keep the magic alive.

Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions. Call 020 7255 9120 or visit www.perform. org.uk/try to book a FREE class today.

Baby Massage and Yoga Classes Massage offers a unique way to communicate with, and soothe you little love, whilst raising the “feel-good” hormone oxytocin in both yourself and your baby, baby massage helps you both feel calm and relaxed and improves muscle tone and stimulates growth hormones.

Baby yoga is relaxing and enjoyable for both mum and babies, supporting bonding between you and your baby, quality time that’s fun.

For more information, call Pinal on 07956442223, visit www.thelotuspractice.com 55x70_alison.qxp_Layout 9 25/08/2016 10:52 Pa

Birthday For classes of pure MADness, Parties join MAD Academy Too! Babies from 3 months action songs and sensory stimulation Walkers to 2 years music, movement and motor development 2 to 4 years dance, musicality and beat competency Classes in Croydon & surrounding areas Call Alison on 020 8407 1726 or email: [email protected]

madacademy.com Music And Dance and a whole lot of fun!

familiesonline.co.uk Families London Surrey Borders 5 Clubs & classes news A warm welcome to Julia Dryland, the new Jo Jingles franchisee for the Epsom My name is Julia Dryland and I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself as the new Jo Jingles franchisee for the Epsom area. I am so pleased to be joining Jo Jingles as it is such a well-respected and established programme, with a long history of providing high quality music and movement experiences for children. I run classes during term time in Epsom and Worcester Park. Prior to working for Jo Jingles I taught Reception and Year 1 - I love working with small children and enjoy their energy, enthusiasm and natural curiosity! When I’m not working, I love to spend time with my own little boy, who has just turned 5. He is enthusiastic about music and already enjoys playing the drums and ukulele!

Learn to swim with To find out more about Jo Jingles, and to find a class in your local area, please visit: www. Everyone Active jojingles.com or call Julia Dryland – Epsom, 07735 535321 or Lorraine Bryant - Banstead, Sutton and Purley, 07376 381617. Learning to swim is a vital life skill which every child should experience. Swimming lessons teach children independence and More about Jo Jingles give a sense of accomplishment as they Jo Jingles provides fun singing and movement classes which teach children to play feel themselves improving. Swimming percussion instruments expressively, sing songs and find the rhythm to move and dance. offers a whole-body workout like no other, Age-specific classes are tailor-made to engage even the youngest children. Classes helping children to keep active whilst having encourage hand-eye co-ordination, and help children learn social skills and make friends, fun. Notably, learning to swim also gives as well as encouraging their physical, mental and emotional development. Children play children the ability to get themselves out of two age-specific percussion instruments each week. No membership fees! FREE Trial! potentially dangerous situations, enabling them to fully enjoy trips to the seaside and beach holidays. Traymark Junior Dance Club Everyone Active’s awarding winning learn to swim programme offers lessons for Traymark Junior Dance Club is a successful dance all ages of swimmers, from child classes school based in Morden. IDTA Medal Classes starting at 4 months right through to adult are held for boys and girls in Latin American, classes and are available at over 120 sites. Ballroom, Rock’n’Roll, Salsa and Freestyle (Solo, All swimming teachers are Swim England Pairs, Trios and Teams). Also included is a General level 2 (or equivalent) qualified. All stages Dance Session where pupils learn up-to-date pop are progressive and continually assessed, routines alongside traditional dances. IDTA Medal initially developing water confidence and Tests are held twice a year. Emphasis is placed on then teaching children to swim. As they high teaching standards, to promote kindness, respect and inclusion. improve, this distance is increased, and all strokes are introduced. They also have the New beginners’ classes for 3 – 5 year olds will run on Saturdays from 10.25-11am where opportunity to develop water safety skills children will learn the basic steps to Latin American, Ballroom and Freestyle Dances. and other aquatic disciplines such as Rookie Lifeguard, synchronised swimming diving Free trial lesson, call to find out more. and water polo. Contact Tracy Felton on 0208 643 5919 or visit, www.traymark.weebly.com More info: www.everyoneactive.com

PHYSICS CLINIC Your JourN e Y to SuCCe SS

Striving for an A* in your GCSE or A Level Physics?

Looking to ace the Oxbridge Physics/ Engineering Admission Tests?

One to one tutoring Tutor Credentials: Oxford University Detailed worked examples Alumni, Qualified Physics teacher with over ten years of Extensive Past Paper Practice experience Help with Homework

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In depth preparation for the Physics Aptitude Test for Now Recruiting Oxford University and the Engineering Admission Now Recruiting Assessment for Cambridge University DBS Contact: Mrs Tracy Felton (020 8643 5919) checked Contact: Mrs Tracy Felton (020 8643 5919)

Member of the IDTA, AQA/NSAP Professional Award, CRB Areas covered: Member of the IDTA, AQA/NSAP Professional Award, CRB checked, School Curriculum approved. Fully insured. Croydon, , Forestdale, , checked, School Curriculum approved. Fully insured. Purley, Addiscombe, Shirley Hillcross Primary School, Ashridge Way, Morden, SM4 4EE Hillcross Primary School, Ashridge Way, Morden, SM4 4EE www.traymark.weebly.com CALL TO RESERVE A PLACE NOW www.traymark.weebly.com TraymarkJuniorDanceClub 07576 337017 TraymarkJuniorDanceClub

6 Families London Surrey Borders familiesonline.co.uk Kim Findlay, MAD Academy Principal of Croydon Stagecoach MAD Academy classes for Performing Arts preschool children are free spirited and bursting with energy Shirley awarded and fun! Our classes are funky the Franchisee of and physical, and packed full of singing, dancing, music, games, the Year Award props and, of course, laughter! Classes are also educational, Having moved to London 14 helping children develop key skills aligned to the government’s years ago from New Zealand, where she also taught dance and Early Years Learning Framework. We harness the power of music choreography, Kim has turned a childhood passion for performance and movement to teach a whole range of skills and knowledge, into a successful business. from letters to numbers, from shapes to weather. But it’s not like traditional learning! So, come along and bring a little MADness to Amongst the school’s other successes, the students have your week. participated in West End performances at the Shaftesbury Theatre and Her Majesty’s Theatre. They were also part of a world record For more information please contact Alison Storey on 020 8407 1726 set for the largest number of simultaneous performances of one www.madacademy.com show when the Stagecoach network put on Disney’s Beauty and the Beast in multiple locations across the world in July 2018. MultiSports Kim said, “I am privileged to work with a great team of teachers at Stagecoach Shirley, who are really dedicated to the students, who in Sutton and turn are passionate about our classes. This award is testament to all Cheam their hard work and we look forward to building on our successes to date. MultiSports is about introducing children aged 4 - 16 to a wide To find out more about Stagecoach Shirley, visit www.stagecoach. range of sport orientated co.uk/shirley, or call 020 8949 1116. activities, harvesting potential no matter how great or small, a More about Stagecoach Performing Arts developing life skill such as confidence, personal achievement and teamwork. Classes take place on Saturdays at Nonsuch Stagecoach Performing Arts teach children and teenagers how to High School. All new students are invited to attend trial sessions sing, dance and act, not only to perform on stage but also, more at a one off cost with no commitment to join. This gives both you importantly, to perform better in life. and them the chance to come and see what MultiSports Sutton and Cheam is all about! For more information, please call 01293 Suitable for a range of abilities, Stagecoach offers the chance for 774051 or visit www.multisportssutton.co.uk kids to pursue a career in the performing arts or simply learn some new skills to share with family and friends.

Students are encouraged to take ‘safe risks’ through rehearsals and performance, which brings out a willingness to take on new challenges.

Classes usually run for 12 weeks during the school term. Each class is small to allow our teachers and their assistants to give each child support and attention.

Stagecoach Performing Arts nurtures the shy and apprehensive, until they find their feet and voice, whilst at the same time developing and channelling those with bundles of talent, confidence and energy.

Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools drama singing dance

Schools in: Croydon Epsom Mitcham Sutton

AND MORE! 3–18 years

TWO WEEK TRIAL AVAILABLE. BOOK NOW! T: 020 8447 4530 W: Jigsaw-arts.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk Families London Surrey Borders 7 Education news First Class Learning meets three essential Outstanding requirements to results secures provide structured, exciting future flexible learning at Croydon High programmes in Maths, English and 11+ School GDST The material is designed and developed specifically to support children The Class of 2019 have much to in the UK. It is therefore relevant to any course of study which must meet celebrate at Croydon High this the learning outcomes of the National Curriculum. summer, with almost half of all grades awarded being A* or A. First Class Learning (FCL) programmes are personalised, taking into account the learning needs and style of the individual learners. Maths In a year group of diverse interest and ambition, Croydon High girls are and English are both skill-based subjects that can only be mastered heading off on many different paths, secure in the knowledge that their through patience. Finally this practise must be part of a structured, yet hard work has paid off and they have achieved their goals. flexible programme so that your child can recognise his or her own achievement. Headmistress, Emma Pattison is not only extremely proud of the academic achievements of our girls but also of the individual journeys We are very proud of our students and excited to keep building children’s they have taken. self-confidence, good learning habits and knowledge.

The school is delighted to report that 60% of students will be taking up Comtact: Sutton: [email protected], 07712 323582, places at one of the prestigious Russell Group universities and equally Carshalton: [email protected], 07957 966316, proud of those who have chosen to follow different paths, including Banstead: [email protected], 07789982055 or a highly competitive apprenticeship, or on more specialist courses in : [email protected], 07790004416. subjects they are passionate about.

For more on A Level results day at Croydon High, please visit www. Old Palace of croydonhigh.gdst.net/a-level-2019 welcomes new Elmhurst School invites you to head discover what makes them so In September, Old Palace looks special forward to welcoming new Head, Mrs Jane Burton. This follows the Elmhurst School is an independent day school for boys aged three retirement of Mrs Jewell, who has to eleven, located in South Croydon. At Elmhurst, we identify, nurture been Head of Old Palace for 11 years. and celebrate the talents of each and every boy, in an inspiring environment which blends innovation with tradition and successfully Mrs Burton brings with her extensive expertise as former Head of equips boys with the skills they need to excel in the 21st Century. To Wallington High School for Girls, Deputy Head at Nonsuch High School gain a true insight into school life, we recommend that you visit us, so for Girls and most recently as Chief Executive of the Girls’ Learning Trust why not come along to our next Open Morning on 12th October, 10am (GLT) where she spearheaded the strategic development of the UK’s first - 12pm, to sample the atmosphere and discover what makes Elmhurst all-girls multi-academy trust. School so special. Mrs Burton is a strong advocate of girls’ education. She says: “I am More info: www.elmhurstschool.net deeply motivated by the opportunity to raise the School’s profile across London and the South East, and ultimately, continuing to ensure that our students leave school as confident, courageous and resilient young Banstead Prep women who are well prepared for the rigours of the 21st century”.

has exiting new Prospective families will have the chance to meet Mrs Burton at both the announcements Senior (9:00-11.00am) and Nursery & Preparatory School (2:00-4:00pm) Open Day on Saturday 5th October. to make! Old Palace was recently rated in the top 30 independent schools in Banstead Prep School is excited London in the Sunday Times Parent Power Schools Guide 2019. to announce the opening of new sports changing facilities to More info: www.oldpalace.croydon.sch.uk enhance onsite playing field and full-sized all-weather pitch.

Vicky Ellis, Headteacher said “The new building will enable us to use our exceptional sports facilities to an even greater extent, improving the experience for our children as well as visiting sports teams and spectators. This is the first of several planned building works, demonstrating United Learning’s commitment to the school and their confidence in our continued sucess.” The school has also extended the dining hall to increase capacity and further building is planned for 2020, including an additional classroom to accommodate expected increases in pupil numbers.

Another new addition to the school is Toddler Time, a free parent and toddler group open to the community, that runs once a month on Fridays from 9.30am - 11am during term time for children aged 1-3. For dates and further details please see our website or Facebook page.

More info: www.bansteadprep.com

8 Families London Surrey Borders familiesonline.co.uk The love for The Trinity Voice learning starts awarded a special here! mention at the in Shine School Selsdon, Surrey is an exceptional independent day school for girls Media Awards aged 3 to 18. Part of the Girls’ Day The Trinity Voice, a school School Trust, the leading network newspaper produced by students of independent girls’ schools in at Trinity School, Croydon has been the UK, Croydon High has been awarded a special mention in the delivering outstanding education to local girls since 1874. ‘Rising Star’ category at the recent Shine School Media Awards.

Girls join Nursery in the term in which they will turn 3, progressing The certificate was presented at a recent gala awards ceremony at through Junior School, gaining confidence and experience, enjoying Stationers’ Hall in London. The Shine School Media Awards recognises unparalleled opportunities to discover individual talents with a UK secondary schools that produce an outstanding newspaper, curriculum specifically developed to empower and inspire girls. This magazine, podcast or website. includes specialist teaching in areas such a computer science, drama, music and PE from Nursery up. The school’s first newspaper, The Trinity Voice was created by Sixth Form student Maddy Burt and written, edited and produced by a team From her very first day, every girl is treated as an individual. of students. The paper includes a wide variety of school-related issues Relationships with staff are crucial; staff know each girl, her likes and and current affairs articles. dislikes, strengths and weaknesses and plan teaching opportunities to suit each and every one. Deputy Headmaster Eugene du Toit said “I am delighted that Maddy and her team’s efforts have been recognised in this national A personal tour of the Junior School on a normal school day is the competition. ‘The Trinity Voice’ has been a huge success and is very perfect opportunity to meet Head Sarah Raja, to see first-hand how the well received by pupils and staff alike, and we are proud to see it being girls learn and to soak up the school’s unique atmosphere. recognised outside of the school.

The Junior Admissions team is on 020 8260 7508 or [email protected] More info: www.shine-schoolawards.org or www.trinity-school.org More info: www.croydonhigh.gdst.net Now we are five! Calls for Five years ago, Play B C Preschool Compulsory Climate began as a pack away setting in a church hall with just five children Change Education registered. Five became ten, then in Schools ten became twenty as the family steadily grew and outgrew. A petition launched by four Oxford school girls calling for lessons on We extensively remodelled Elm Climate Change to be made compulsory in schools has gathered over Grove Hall and relocated in 2017, 75,000 signatures. The students are hoping to make climate change developing a fantastic learning a “core part of the compulsory curriculum” to increase the next environment. The team has tripled in size to accommodate continually generation’s understanding of the global issue. They claim they have expanding numbers and now includes a second qualified teacher with a “barely learned about the climate crisis at school, even though it’s third on the way. We continue to offer fun yet challenging learning and supposed to be part of Geography and Science.” prioritise relationships with our wonderfully diverse cohort, which has included children with diabetes, autistic spectrum disorders and Down’s According to the petition: “Climate change is the biggest issue of our syndrome. time, and it must be a part of our education if our generation is to understand it and help us to combat its effects. That’s why we This year we were thrilled to attain an ‘excellent’ score for interaction want climate change to be made a core part of the national in an external ratings assessment and to secure an Early Years Quality curriculum.” Mark. We can’t wait to see what the next five years will bring. More info www.playbc.co.uk More info: www.change.org

The Lotus Practice Now offering ü Cranio-sacral therapy Autumn at ü Baby Massage Courses Nower Wood ü Baby Yoga Courses ü Osteopathy Open Day 29th Oct CranioSacral Therapy is a gentle method of detection Plus Ancient Adventures, Creatures and correction that encourages your own natural of the Night, Wild Tots & more! healing mechanisms to dissipate these negative effects of stress on your central nervous system and better Booking essential: overall health. surreywildlifetrust.org ) 07956442223 Find us on the B2033 nr Leatherhead : [email protected] 8 www.thelotuspractice.com familiesonline.co.uk Families London Surrey Borders 9 Education news Reduction in School Breaks ‘Unhealthy’ School break times are much shorter than they were two decades ago meaning children are missing out on valuable opportunities to make friends and develop social skills and exercise, according to research by the Nuffield Foundation.

The study looked at how school breaks have changed over 25 years comparing data from over 1,000 primary and secondary schools.

It found that despite the length of the school day remaining much the same, break times are being squeezed even further with potential serious implications for children’s well-being and development. School Children to Afternoon breaks have been virtually eliminated; they are now only available to 15% of primary school children and 1% of secondary schools. There is also a clear trend to shorter lunch breaks Tackle Speeding Drivers with reported lunchtimes of 35 minutes or less.

An initiative in London is getting primary According to the authors, break times are important for children to get physical exercise – a school pupils to confront speeding motorists, particular concern given the rise in obesity, and to develop important social skills that are not in a bid to enforce the 20mph speed limit near learned in school lessons. schools. More info: www.nuffieldfoundation.org The Junior Roadwatch scheme involves drivers who are caught speeding and pulled over by police officers being given the option of Outdoor Education receiving a fixed penalty fine and points on their license, attending a speeding awareness programmes at Surrey course or being told off by children. Wildlife Trust

Drivers “deemed suitable” to speak to the The Surrey Wildlife Trust have two private educational pupils following a police national computer nature reserves in Surrey, both with classrooms, amenities check will face questions such as “are you and acres of beautiful natural surroundings. As they are aware of the consequences of speeding” and closed to the public these reserves make the perfect safe “why do you think the speed limit is 20mph on environment to immerse yourself in nature. this road?”. The early years and primary programmes are designed to guide children on a journey of Collisions are a leading cause of serious injury, discovery into nature, inspiring natural inquisitiveness, a sense of adventure and empathy for disability or death of children in the UK. In 2017, the natural world. 48 children died in road collisions in the UK and over 15,700 children were injured. Sessions are planned with the children in mind, involving a range of engaging, hands-on activities and games to suit all learning styles. Every session aims to encourage enquiry, Similar schemes are being used elsewhere, creativity and teamwork as well as delivering subject-specific learning outcomes. including parts of Hertfordshire, West Yorkshire and Northumberland. Early years sessions include sessions for EYFS, KS1 and KS2.

More info: www.tfl.gov.uk It is well-known that the best way to learn is through practical experience and our secondary programmes use field studies, scientific investigation techniques and real-world examples to Teachers ‘As Good as demonstrate concepts in biology, geography and environmental studies. Tests’ at Predicting There are sessions available for KS3, KS4 and A-Level Programmes. Success For more information and to book an outdoor education session, please email education. [email protected], or call 01372 379509. Visit www.surreywildlifetrust.org Sats are no better than teachers at predicting pupil’s GCSE and A-Level results, a study has found. Is your child striving for an A*

The study, published in the Journal of Child in GCSE and A level Physics or Psychology and Psychiatry, found teacher aspiring to apply to Oxford or assessments at age 7, 11 and 14 were just as effective as using Sats results to predict Cambridge University? pupils’ subsequent exam success. Physics Clinic, run by Naomi Aubeeluck, offers the boost Researchers say their findings, published that your child may require. After completing a Master in in the Journal of Child Psychology and Engineering Science at Oxford University, Naomi trained as Psychiatry, question whether the benefits of a Physics teacher. She possesses a decade of experience standardised exams outweigh the costs. teaching in independent schools.

A lead researcher Dr Kaili Rimfeld, from Passionate about her subject, Naomi founded Physics Clinic as a means to aspire more pupils, the King’s College London, said: “We especially girls, to excel in Physics or even apply for Physics related degrees. have shown for the first time that teacher assessments predict GCSE and A-level Her tutorials encompass an initial assessment of areas of difficulties, detailed worked examples results just as well as earlier exam scores.” and extensive past paper practice. Students would need to commit to unflinching hard work, including homework. “The fact that exam scores correlate so highly with the teacher assessments raises Furthermore, Oxbridge applicants may benefit from her services during the notoriously questions about the value of the testing competitive application process. Naomi can assist with refining personal statements to an culture that characterises compulsory exceptionally high standard, mock technical interview practice and preparing students for education in the UK.” the Physics Aptitude test for Oxford University and Engineering Admission Assessment for Cambridge University. These Admission tests indicate pupils’ ability to Admission tutors. More info at www.kcl.ac.uk/news To reserve a space, please call 07576337017. Naomi tutors in different areas of Croydon or online.

10 Families London Surrey Borders familiesonline.co.uk Build your child’s confidence and Activity Mornings for children learning skills. Ages 5 – 16 years. starting Reception September 2020 Sutton 07712 323582 Wednesday 25 September [email protected] Thursday 28 November Carshalton 07957 966316 [email protected] Book online at Banstead 07789982055 www.bansteadprep.com/visit [email protected]

South Croydon 07790 004 416 [email protected]

Visit www.firstclasslearning.co.uk to enquire or book an assessment. SUTTON LANE | BANSTEAD | [email protected] | 01737 363600

Preparing Boys for Celebrating 150 years ~ 1869 - 2019 the 21st Century

Today I started my thesis… Our Nursery girls are discovering the joy of seeing their words come to life on the page. The best preparation for their future university studies will actually be the hours we spend developing self-confidence and a passion for learning. To find out more about how we are inspiring every girl, every day, call 020 8260 7508 or visit www.croydonhigh.gdst.net Open Morning: Croydon High Junior School. Make the best start. Saturday 12th October, 10am - 12pm

Call us on 020 8688 0661 or visit www.elmhurstschool.net to book An independent day school for boys aged 3 to 11 - South Croydon, CR2 7DW www.croydonhigh.gdst.net

familiesonline.co.uk Families London Surrey Borders 11 But there are simple, practical and evidence-based steps that parents can take to support their child’s development. And the most effective approaches are often the most obvious - daily stories, teaching them songs and nursery rhymes, and playing with letters and numbers. These are all proven to help children discover the joy of learning. This, in turn, will help close the early attainment gap.

Of course, part of the answer to early years education lies in giving toddlers and pre-schoolers access to high-quality nursery provision, with well-trained and skilled staff. But parents are a crucial part of that equation. After all, they are their child’s earliest educators.

So it is encouraging to see the Department for Education make improving the home learning environment one of its key priorities. This commitment is backed by a £5 million fund which will be used to find out how early years settings can best work with parents to support their children in language and How Parental Engagement reading at an early stage.

Improves Learning By Stephen Fraser There are some practical things that schools and early years’ settings can do, too, such as monitoring parental As a parent or carer, you want to give your to your child’s intellectual and social engagement activities to get the most child the best start in life and you play development than what you actually do out of them, looking at the best ways to a crucial role in supporting your child’s with your child. In short, parenting can communicate with parents, and strategies learning before school and throughout trump background. for supporting learning at home. their time in education. Research is clear that levels of parental engagement are Research by charity, the Sutton Trust, By building effective practice, it will also consistently associated with better has found that good parenting and a be possible to support more parents learning outcomes. supportive home environment are more to actively engage in their children’s important determinants of good levels of learning, from the early years and At no point is parental engagement more learning at age 5 than family income. It throughout school, radically improving important than in the early years. They also found that most children with a good their life chances. are a vital time in the life of any child level of learning at age 5 are read to every and play a significant role in shaping day, taken to places of interest, and given Stephen Fraser is Deputy CEO of the the person they will become and the regular bed times. Evidence from our Education Endowment Foundation, an opportunities in life they will have. It is Early Years Toolkit suggests that effective independent charity established in 2011 also a critical, and often difficult, time for parental engagement can lead to learning to improve the educational attainment parents, trying to balance the wellbeing gains of around four months over the of the poorest pupils in English schools. and development of their child with the course of a year. For further information, visit www. need to provide financial stability, and educationendowmentfoundation.org.uk especially for first time parents, with the This shows what is possible. Challenges, emotional and practical complexities that of course, remain. Many parents, as well can accompany the joys of parenting. as being time-poor, may lack confidence Don’t miss an issue! in their own reading, writing and maths Unfortunately, the early years are where skills. Some parents may have had Download the latest magazine and our we first see the attainment gap – the negative experiences at school that have back catalogue at issuu difference in educational outcomes an impact on how well they can engage in between young people from the their own child’s learning. www.issuu.com least well-off backgrounds and their classmates – first take hold. There is already a big gap in the school readiness of less well-off children and their more Advertise your advantaged classmates when they start school: five year olds from economically business with disadvantaged homes are estimated to be over four months behind their peers. Families London This link between family income and attainment, even among young children, Surrey Borders is clear-cut, long-standing, and difficult to break. Magazine and

But there is nothing inevitable about reach over this trajectory. The best research we have provides a much more hopeful 40,000 local Book today! message. As a parent, your occupation, education and family income matter less parents Call 07947 535986

12 Families London Surrey Borders familiesonline.co.uk For further details telephone 020 8688 2027 or go to www.oldpalace.croydon.sch.uk to reserve a place at one of our Open Day Events.

Old Palace of John Whitgift is an academically selective independent school for girls | Nursery to Sixth Form Come along and take a look! Whole School Open Day Senior School Old Palace Road CR0 1AX Saturday 5 October 9am-11am Nursery, Pre School and Preparatory Melville Avenue CR2 7YN Saturday 5 October 2pm-4pm Sixth Form Open Evening Senior School Old Palace Road CR0 1AX Thursday 10 October 5pm-7pm

Independent Day School for Boys Co-Educational Sixth Form

Shirley Park Croydon OPEN MORNING Saturday 5th October 2019 9am –12pm or visit us by appointment A LEVEL CHOICES AND SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING Monday 14th October 2019 by appointment

CARING DEEPLY • OUTSTANDING LEARNING • JOINING IN • LOOKING OUTWARDS

trinity-school.org @TrinityCroydon 020 8656 9541 familiesonline.co.uk Families London Surrey Borders 13 B2482-4 Trinity 130x180mmL 2.indd 1 16/07/2019 12:01 Independent School Open Mornings Open events require advance booking, so please call the school to check.

Aberdour School Cumnor House Boys & Tree Tops Oct, 9am – 10.30am Thu 10 Oct, 5-7pm Burgh Heath, KT20 6AJ Nursery (Pampisford Rd) Nursery, Pre-Prep and Preparatory Seniors Working Lunch 01737 354119 South Croydon, CR2 6DA School Open Morning Fri 11 Oct, Wed 6 Nov, 1–3pm www.aberdourschool.co.uk 020 8660 3445 10.30am - 12noon Open Morning Fri 4 Oct www.cumnorhouse.com Royal Russell Junior School 9.30am - 12pm Reception Class Open Morning Thu Homefield Preparatory Croydon, CR0 5BX 10 Oct, 9.30-11am Sutton, SM1 2TE 020 8651 5884 Open Morning Fri 11 Oct 020 8642 0965 www.royalrussell.co.uk 9.30am - 11am www.homefield.sutton.sch.uk Open Morning Sat 28 Sep, 8.30am Open Morning Sat 28 Sep, 10am Cumnor House Girls & Tree Tops Early Years Fun Sessions Tue 8 Oct, Seaton House School Nursery 2-3pm Sutton, SM2 5LH Purley, CR8 3HB 020 8642 2332 020 8668 0050 Kingswood House School, Epsom www.seatonhouse.sutton.sch.uk Banstead Prep www.cumnorhouse.com Epsom, KT19 8LG Open Morning Sat 21 Sep Banstead SM7 3RA Open Morning Wed 2 Oct 01372 723590 10am – 12.30pm 01737 363601 9.30-11am www.kingswoodhouse.org Drop In Morning Tue 24 Sep Co educational day school. Open Mornings 9.30am-12noon 9.30 - 11.30am Pupils aged 2 – 11 years Downsend School (Pre/Preps) Thu 3 Oct, Sat 5 Oct & Fri 8 Nov www.bansteadprep.com Leatherhead, Ashtead and Epsom St Christopher’s School Open Mornings 01372 372311 Laleham Lea Epsom, KT18 5HE Fri 20 Sep, 9.15am - 10am www.downsend.co.uk Purley, CR8 3J 01372 721807 Thu 10 Oct, 9.15am - 10am Pre-Prep Schools Open Morning 020 8660 3351 www.st-christophers.surrey.sch.uk Tue 12 Nov, 9.15am - 10am Fri 4 Oct, 9.30-11.30am www.lalehamlea.co.uk Open Morning Fri 20 Sep Toddler Time parent & toddler group Prep School Open Morning Sat 5 27 Sep & 18 Oct, 9.30 - 11am Open Week Mon 23 – Fri 27 Sep, Oct, 9.15am - 12noon 9.30am - 11.30am Sutton High, Nursery and Juniors Pre-Prep Schools Open Morning – Sutton, SM1 2AL City of London Freeman’s Fri 11 Oct, 9.30-11.30am Manor House School & Nursery 020 8225 3075 Ashstead Park, KT21 1ET Sutton High Seniors, SM1 2AX 013 7282 2423 Leatherhead, KT23 4EN 013 7245 7077 020 8642 0594 www.freemens.org/openevents www.manorhouseschool.org Independent day school for girls Sixth Form Open Evening Thu 19 Prep School and Senior School Pupils aged 3 – 18 years. Sep, 4.30pm Open Morning Sat 5 Oct, 10am www.suttonhigh.gdst.net Open Morning Fri 27 Sep, 9.30am Open Morning Sat 21 Sep, 10am Open Morning Sat 12 Oct, 10am Oakwood School and Nursery Elmhurst School for Boys, and 59 Godstone Road, Purley, CR8 2AN Trinity School of Collingwood School Little Elms Nursery 020 8668 2895 John Whitgift Wallington, SM6 0BD South Croydon, CR2 7DW www.oakwoodschool.org.uk Shirley Park, 020 8647 4607 020 8688 0661 Open Day Sat 5 Oct, 10am - 1pm Croydon, CR9 7AT www.collingwoodschool.org.uk Independent day school for boys. 020 8656 9541 Open Morning Sat 12 Oct Pupils aged 2 – 11 years Independent day 10am-12noon www.elmhurstschool.net of John for boys. Open Morning Sat 12 Oct, 10am - Preparatory Co – Educational 12noon South Croydon, CR2 6th form. 7YN Pupils aged 10 – 18 years Epsom College 020 8688 2027 www.trinity-school.org Epsom, KT17 4JQ Independent day school Open Morning Sat 5 Oct, 9am – 01372 821007 for girls. Pupils aged 4 – 18 years. 12noon or visit us by appointment Croydon High School www.epsomcollege.org.uk www.oldpalace.croydon.sch.uk A Level Choices and Sixth Form Old Farleigh Rd, Croydon, CR2 Open Morning Sat 5 Oct Preparatory Working Open Morning Open Evening Mon 14 Oct by 8YB Thu 19 Sep, 9.30am-11am appointment 020 8260 7508 Seniors Working Lunch [email protected] Ewell Castle Junior and Senior Ewell, KT17 2AW Wed 25 Sep, 1-3pm Whitgift School Independent girls’ day school 020 8393 1413 Introduction to Year 6 Pupils aged 3 – 18 years South Croydon, CR2 6YT Co educational day school. Thu 26 Sep, 6-8pm 020 8688 9222 www.croydonhigh.gdst.net Pupils 3 – 18 years Seniors Open Morning Whole School Open Day Sat 12 Oct, www.whitgift.co.uk www.ewellcastle.co.uk Sat 5 Oct, 9-11am Open Morning – Sat 21 Sep 9.30am - 12.30pm Preparatory Open Day Sixth Form Open Evening Tue 15 Whole School Open Morning Sat 5 Open Evening – Tue 8 Oct Oct, 10am – 12noon Sat 5 Oct, 2pm – 4pm Oct, 7-9pm Sixth form Open Evening Open Afternoon – Thu 26 Sep Senior School Open Morning Fri 11 Open Afternoon – Tue 15 Oct

Drive for More Men Going to Nursery in Childcare Improves Behaviour More men are to be encouraged into Children who go to nursery are better careers in nurseries and early years’ set- behaved and have fewer emotional tings, in a new project to provide more problems than those cared for by family diverse role models for children before or a childminder, a new study has they start school. found.

With men making up just 3% of early years staff in England, the project Those who attended nursery, crèche or day care centre staffed by aims to break down the barriers that prevent men entering careers in professionals for a year or more found it easier to make friends and had children’s early education, including the myth that men are less suited to better social skills than youngsters who stayed at home. caring roles. Researchers believe more stimulating play, more time spent reading, The project will be run by the Fatherhood Institute, and will spearhead following rules from a young age and getting praise mean children thrive an innovative recruitment drive that highlights the positive roles men can in a nursery setting. play in the crucial first years of a child’s education. The study by the Sorbonne University in France looked at the factors It will provide practical resources like myth busters, ‘how-to’ guides and involved in childhood health and development using a survey of 1,428 online content to support male recruitment into the profession, as well as children. It tracked their emotional development from birth up to age 8. online peer support for men already working in the sector. Previous research has suggested early childcare can boost a child’s language and thinking skills, and may improve their academic More info at www.fatherhoodinstitute.org performance. More info: www.jech.bmj.com

14 Families London Surrey Borders familiesonline.co.uk NEW! ANIMAL DISCOVERY What’s On WITCHES & BARN Before setting out please check details with the venue in case they have WIZARDS WEEK changed since we have gone to print ...and don’t forget to tell them you saw them in Families London-Surrey Borders! ENJOY A SPOOKTACULAR DAY OUT AT BOCKETTS FARM PARK Every Sat & Wed unitl Oct, Wed 11 Sep – Sun 20 Oct 8am – 1pm Autumn Art 26TH OCTOBER-3RD NOVEMBER Sutton Boot Sale Polesden Lacey, near Dorking, St Hellier Open Space Wrythe Lane RH5 6BD Opp. St Hellier Hospital, SM5 1AA www.nationaltrust.org.uk CREEPY www.suttonboot.co.uk Come along and help create our art CRAFTS The Wednesday boot offers buyers an installation with fallen leaves, inspired eclectic mix of old household goods by the landscape and wildlife. HUNDREDS OF from clearance sellers based in and PUMPKINS around the London area. Saturdays are Fri 13 Sep, 10am – 4.30pm SCIENCE & a typical car boot sale with loads of Heritage Open Day SLIME SHOWS amazing bargains and lovely genuine Polesden Lacey, near Dorking, RH5 family focused sellers. 6BD SPOOKY www.nationaltrust.org.uk QUIZ TRAIL 12, 19 & 26 September, 3, 10 & 17 Wonderful Polesden Lacey is open to REPTILE Oct, 10am-12pm the public. Visit for free all day with the ROADSHOW Wild Tots at Nower Wood family and enjoy the glorious house and Nower Wood, Leatherhead grounds. www.surreywildlifetrust.org/whatson Wild tots provide a wonderful Sat 14 Sep & Sat 12 Oct, 9am – 1pm

opportunity for your little ones to Wallington Farmers Market FM/OCTOBER2019 experience and learn from nature. Old Town Hall and Library Gardens, Suitable for 2-5 year olds accompanies SM6 0NB by an adult. Babes in arms go FREE. BE www.ecolocal.org.uk Quality local produce direct from the Sun 8 Sep, 11am – 2.30pm producer. Ancient Adventures

Nower Wood, Leatherhead Sun 15 Sep, 10am-5pm © National Trust 2019 . Registered charity, No. 205846. Natio nal Images www.surreywildlifetrust.org/whatson Heritage Open Day Learn ancient crafts from cave painting Hatchlands Park, Guildford, GU4 7R to Viking braiding and cook bread over www.nationaltrust.org.uk the campfire. BE. Enjoy free admission to the house and parkland. Sun 8 Sep, 10.30am-4.30pm Huxley’s birds of prey Sun 15 Sep, 11am - 3.30pm Claremont Landscape Garden, Ewell Court House and Library Esher, KT10 9JG Open Day www.nationaltrust.org.uk Ewell Court House & Library, Take flight with a wide variety of birds KT19 0EB of prey as they display their beauty and www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk majesty in Claremont’s historic setting. Open day at the house and library. Fun NAA. activities for all the family.

Sat 7 Sep & Sat 19 Oct 10am-12pm Sun 15 Sep, 1pm - 5pm CROYDON Mum2mum Market Epsom and Ewell Community Fayre All Saints Church Onslow Gardens Hook Road Arena, Epsom, KT19 8QG CR2 9AB www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk www.mum2mummarket.co.uk A country village fair and Award winning baby and children’s entertainment, primarily for children. nearly new sales packed with hundreds of bargains to shop from at each event! Sat 14 Sep, 2.30pm – 3.30pm Jingle Ring Tue 10 Sep & Tue 8 Oct 9.30am Leith Hill Place, Dorking, RH5 6LY Dog Walking Club www.nationaltrust.org.uk Polesden Lacey, near Dorking, Bring your children to a family music RH5 6BD session with Jane Newberry, using toys, www.nationaltrust.org.uk percussion and dance. Join us on a walk of the estate with your canine friends. Join us for half-term fun this October Wiglet's Great Spook-er-ree Halloween trails, nature activities and tons of

Don't miss our Low Bangs leaves to play in. Firework displays on 31st October & 1st November '19. Book online to avoid Visit Claremont Landscape disappointment! Garden, Morden Hall Park, Polesden Lacey and Winkworth Arboretum.

nationaltrust.org.uk/surrey 26th October - 3rd November 2019 www.godstonefarm.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk Families London Surrey Borders 15 Tue 17 Sep, 7pm – 8pm a child-friendly hay bale maze. Sat & Painshill Guided Bat Walk Sun only. Enjoy Autumn at Hever Painshill, Cobham, KT11 1JE Castle www.painshill.co.uk Sat 28 Sep, 10am – 4pm Take a walk in the Painshill landscape Apple and Orchard Day www.hevercastle.co.uk observing bats in their natural habitat. Ightham Mote, Sevenoaks, Visit Hever Castle & Gardens this Autumn to TN15 0NT enjoy an entertaining programme of events www.nationaltrust.org.uk Thu 19 Sep and activities set amidst award-winning Celebrate the bounty from the garden Bat Walk gardens. London Wetland Centre, Barnes, of England with our apple and orchard SW13 9WT day. With apple tasting and stalls. As the gardens turn vibrant shades of red, pink and gold and the leaves tumble www.wwt.org.uk from the trees, it’s the perfect time to enjoy Autumn Colour at Hever Castle (from See and learn about these amazing Sat 28 Sep & Sun 29 Sep, 1 October). Children can take part in a leaf and seed collection challenge with 10 flying mammals and their astonishing 11am – 4pm different seeds and leaves to be collected. Young visitors are also given a tulip aerial acrobatics. 8+. Harvest Fest: Apple Weekend bulb to take home and plant. Morden Hall Park, Morden, SM4 5JD Thu 19 Sep, 10am, 12pm & 2pm Treat the children to a spine-tingling programme of entertainment over the www.nationaltrust.org.uk Heritage Open Day Halloween half term break (19-31 Oct) with prizes for the best Halloween Gatton Park, Reigate, RH2 0TW Get into the autumn spirit with Apple costumes. Creepy craft workshops, spooky storytelling and a scarecrow www.gattonpark.co.uk Fest! Try local Merton varieties, taste a scavenger hunt to follow in the grounds. Join a free guided tour and explore the range of National Trust harvest goodies rich history of Gatton Park. Meet at St. and have a go in the child-friendly hay From 23 Nov to 24 Dec feel festive. With welcoming log fires, and beautiful Andrew’s Church lych gate. bale maze! decorations in the Castle, an Alice in Wonderland themed Christmas trail to follow and the chance to see Father Christmas – be enchanted by the magic of Sat 28 Sep, 3pm - 4.30pm Fri 20 Sep, 6.30pm – 8.30pm Christmas at Hever. Creatures of the Night NCT Nearly New Sale Nower Wood, Leatherhead St Andrew’s Church, Northey www.surreywildlifetrust.org/whatson Avenue, Cheam, SM2 7HF Come and discover the nocturnal www.nct.org.uk mammals, invertebrates and Top quality baby and children’s clothes Autumnwatch amphibians of Nower Wood. Ages 7+. and equipment at bargain prices. Cash Experience at WWT only. Buggy park available as space in Sat 21 Sep, 10am–3pm & 10am - sales hall limited. £1 per adult. London Wetland Centre 12pm www.wwt.org.uk Family portrait sessions and Box Sun 29 Sep, 10am – 5pm Hill Bugs & Beetles taster session Water Wandleful Weekend It’s lights, camera, action at new Box Hill, Tadworth, KT20 7LB Honeywood Museum, Carshalton, Autumnwatch Experience at WWT London www.nationaltrust.org.uk/box-hill SM5 3NX Wetland Centre. A chance to be photographed with www.sutton.gov.uk your loved ones, against the beautiful Exhibition, fun facts water trail and get Get hands on with this unique wildlife experience at London Wetland Centre, backdrop of Box Hill, with award creative with our colouring sheets. where visitors have a go at being a TV presenter and wildlife researcher this winning photographer Rachel Thornhill. autumn. Plus enjoy singing, playing outdoors Sat 5 Oct, 10am – 3pm and learning some fascinating facts. Family portrait sessions “This is a fantastic opportunity to experience what it’s like to be an Autumnwatch Box Hill, Tadworth, KT20 7LB presenter. Budding wildlife presenters of all ages will have lots of fun and the Sat 28 Sep - Sun 27 Oct www.nationaltrust.org.uk/box-hill chance to share their videos with all their friends. Harvest Fest: Hay Maze! A chance to be photographed with Morden Hall Park, Morden, your loved ones, against the beautiful SM4 5JD backdrop of Box Hill, with award www.nationaltrust.org.uk winning photographer Rachel Thornhill. Wiglet’s Great Spook- Celebrate the Harvest Fest at Morden Hall Park trying to find your way out of er-ree at Godstone Farm www.godstonefarm.co.uk Come and visit from 26 Oct to 3 Nov for eerie fun on the farm, and don’t forget your best creepy costume. It’s going to be a Spooktacular half term filled with Pumpkin Carving, Trick or Treat games and our brand-new “Light Illusion Tunnel” with 3D glasses. Our amazing Halloween glasses transform any point of light into Brain Chilling Bats, Scary Skulls and Petrifying Pumpkins! Listen for the “WOW!” every time someone tries them for the first time. There’s crafts, a spooky quiz, face painting and spooky tales too, so this really is a week not to miss!

Wizards and Witches Week at Bocketts Farm www.bockettsfarm.co.uk Enjoy a full packed programme of fun and freaky activities including a Spooky Quiz Trail, Creepy Craft Corner and Reptile Roadshow, where you’ll get the chance to meet awesome creepy crawlies up close! Plus, they’ll be amazing science and slime shows from Einstein’s Entertainers as well as hundreds of pumpkins on sale! Daily activities include pony rides, tractor rides, animal handling and pig racing, and you can meet and feed all of the friendly farm animals too. 26 Oct to 3 Nov.

ROLL UP! ROLL UP! CIRCUS 1903 returns to Royal Festive Hall www.circus1903.com Experience all the thrills and daredevil entertainment of a turn-of-the-century circus when CIRCUS 1903 returns to the Southbank Centre this Christmas with new acts for 2019 including the Brazilian Wheel of Death.

Sensational puppetry from the award-winning team behind War Horse puts elephants back in the ring as never seen before, alongside a huge cast of the most unique, jaw-dropping and dangerous acts from all four corners of the globe.

CIRCUS 1903 is in town for three weeks only, 19 Dec – 5 Jan. Book now to avoid disappointment!

16 Families London Surrey Borders familiesonline.co.uk

2193-Hever-Christmas-Daytime-2019-Families-87x130-AW2.indd 1 29/07/2019 12:32 Sun 6 Oct, 2pm - 4.30pm There are strange goings on at visitors have gone home. A sensory trail Mon 28 Oct & Wed 30 Oct, 10am, Bowsaws and Broomsticks Winkworth this Halloween. Pumpkins which will fuel imagination! Includes 11am & 12noon Horton Country Park Local Nature have begun to pop up with creepy a prize. Spooky Train Ride & Storytelling! Reserve, Epsom, KT19 8PL carved faces – can you solve the Denbies Wine Estate, Dorking, www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk mystery? NAA + £1 per trail. Sun 27 Oct, 10am start RH5 6AA Take a stroll around Horton Country Halloween Fun Run 10K & 2K www.denbies.co.uk/events Park Local Nature Reserve with a Sat 19 Oct –Sun 3 Nov, 10am-4pm Denbies Wine Estate, Dorking, Dress-up in your best spooky costume member of the EEBC Countryside Team Half-term potion making trail RH5 6AA for a vineyard train ride and storytelling. and find out about all the work our Claremont Landscape Garden, www.denbies.co.uk/events volunteers carry out on the reserve. Esher, KT10 9JG Dress up in your spookiest costume for Tue 29 Oct, 11am-1pm www.nationaltrust.org.uk a leisurely 2K & 10K around the estate. Pumpkin carving Fri 11 Oct – Sun 13 Oct Hubble Bubble, where to find wizard Winkworth Arboretum, Godalming, Tunbridge Wells Puppetry Festival stuff for your potion? Search the Sun 27 Oct, 1-4pm GU8 4AD www.twpuppetryfestival.org. ghoulish garden for mysterious Spooky Spiders, Wizards and www.nationaltrust.org.uk Tunbridge Wells will be filled with ingredients and create some natural Witches We’ll help you create a spooktacular puppetry in all its forms when the magic! NAA + £1 per trail. Gatton Park, Reigate, RH2 0TW Jack-o-Lantern to decorate your home, curtain rises on the third Tunbridge www.gattonpark.co.uk just in time for Halloween. Please bring Wells Puppetry Festival. Mon 21 Oct, 10.30am Drop in for Halloween activities your own pumpkin. NAA + £2. Bach to Baby Family Concert and enjoy a spooky trail around the Sun 15 Sep, 10am – 7pm St. Mildred’s, Bingham Road, grounds. Ideal for younger children. Tue 29 Oct, Wed 30 Oct, Fri 1 Nov, Cheam Celebration of Food & CR0 7EB 11am-1pm Drink www.bachtobaby.com Mon 28 Oct, 11am-1pm Creepy crafts Cheam Park, SM3 8QS Bach to Baby is the acclaimed concert Pumpkin carving Claremont Landscape Garden, www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cheam- series for the whole family, featuring Claremont Landscape Garden Esher, KT10 9JG celebration-of-food-drink outstanding musicians and exhilarating Portsmouth Rd, Esher, KT10 9JG www.nationaltrust.org.uk Celebrate the pleasure of food while performances in inspiring venues. www.nationaltrust.org.uk Get creative with some spooky crafts, supporting great small producers and Create a spooky pumpkin to take home. mysterious masks and scary spiders. independent food businesses. Sat 26 & Sun 27 Oct, 10am – 6pm Bring your own pumpkin. NAA + £2. NAA + £2 per craft Painshill Autumn Tree Festival Sat 19 Oct – Sun 27 Oct, Painshill, Cobham, KT11 1JE 10am – 5pm www.painshill.co.uk October half-term family fun Celebrate trees at Painshill with tree Ightham Mote, Sevenoaks, surgery demonstrations, craft stalls, TN15 0NT wagon rides and more. www.nationaltrust.org.uk Learn more about owls who make Sat 26 Oct – Sun 3 Nov, 10am-4pm Ightham Mote their home and try to Halloween half-term complete our fun trail in the gardens. Hatchlands Park, East Clandon, Guildford, GU4 7R Half term: Pumpkin Carving Fest! www.nationaltrust.org.uk Morden Hall Park, Morden, Take the trail through the parkland to SM4 5JD discover folklore and superstitions and www.nationaltrust.org.uk claim your pumpkin prize. NAA + £3. Drop in to the Stableyard to pick your pumpkin, create your crazy carving and Sat 26 Oct – Sun 3 Nov light it with an LED tea light candle. Halloween trail Polesden Lacey, near Dorking, Sat 19 Oct-Sun 3 Nov, 10am-4pm RH5 6BD Trail: Peculiar Pumpkins www.nationaltrust.org.uk Winkworth Arboretum, Godalming, Uncover the mysterious clues around Suttonboot.co.uk GU8 4AD the gardens to find what’s been www.nationaltrust.org.uk prowling around at night when all the 0777 444 0774

London Wetland Centre

experience Swap your sofa for our Autumnwatch sofa! Have a go at being a TV presenter and wildlife researcher this autumn.

RIP R I P R I P R I P

Based on a BBC Programme Find out more at wwt.org.uk/london

familiesonline.co.uk Families London Surrey Borders 17

2208-Hever-Halloween-Families-2019-87x130mm-AW.indd 1 18/07/2019 10:51 Tue 29 Oct, 11am until 3pm with a REMEMBER, REMEMBER WHATS ON AT THEATRE Sat 26 Oct main display at 12.30pm 5TH NOVEMBER Jack and the Beanstalk Henfold Birds of Prey Epsom Playhouse, KT18 5AL Patrick Lynch (Cbeebies) tells the Denbies Wine Estate, Dorking, Fri 1 Nov 01372 742 555 gripping story of Jack who sells his cow RH5 6AA Bonfire Coldarbour Village www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk for 5 magic beans and finds himself in www.denbies.co.uk/events Coldharbour Cricket ground the land above the clouds. See birds of prey fly and perform www.surreycommunity.info Wed 9 Oct -Sat 12 Oct amazing overhead tricks. Free. Torch-lit procession from The Plough, The Sound of Music Tue 29 Oct Performance subject to weather. Bonfire and fireworks, bar and food. A childhood classic that promises a Pop Divas Live! truly nostalgic performance that will Get ready for the best songs from Tue 29 Oct 10am-12.30pm & Sat 2 Nov bring childhood memories back! all your favourite female stars in one 1.30pm-4pm Round Table Carshalton Fireworks fabulous fun-packed show. Nower Wood Autumn Open Day Ruskin Road, SM5 3 London Tue 15 Oct – Sat 19 Oct Nower Wood, Leatherhead www.carshaltonfireworks.org.uk Jesus Christ Superstar www.surreywildlifetrust.org/whatson Enjoy one of the largest charity Jesus Christ Superstar tells the story of Half term fun exploring the habitats in fireworks displays in the South East. biblical Jesus in the final days leading beautiful ancient woodland. There will up to his crucifixion. be lots of free activities including pond Sat 2 & Tue 5 Nov dipping and natural crafts. BE. Fireworks Displays Mon 28 Oct Morden Park – Sat 2 Nov Once Upon A Princess Wed 30 Oct & Fri 1 Nov, 10-11.30am Wimbledon Park – Tue 5 Nov This smash-hit glittering production or 1.30-3pm www.merton.gov.uk features all your favourite fairytale Trails and Tales: Funnybones Two musical, themed fireworks princesses plus a soundtrack of top Gatton Park, Reigate, RH2 0TW shows at each venue. Plus funfair, pop hits and movie musical classics. www.gattonpark.co.uk refreshments and bar Enjoy the story of ‘Funnybones’ and Fairfields Halls, CR9 1DG go for a walk in the park to bring the Sat 2 Nov 020 8688 9291 29 Nov - 5 Jan 2020 story to life. £8 per child. Book online. Epsom Fireworks Display and www.fairfield.co.uk Oi Frog & Friends Ages 2-4. Funfair Lyric Theatre, 29 Shaftesbury Hook Road Arena, Epsom Mon 14 Oct & Tue 15 Oct Avenue, Soho Thu 31 Oct, dances at 10.30am, www.epsomfireworks.com Dear Zoo Box office: 0330 333 4812 1.30pm, and 3.15pm Enjoy another spectacular night of This production will delight all those www.nimaxtheatres.com Halloween Fancy Dress Disco! fireworks and funfair fun. who have read the book as it unfolds Packed with music, songs, laughs and Denbies Wine Estate, Dorking, with child-engaging puppets, music more rhymes than you can shake a RH5 6AA Thu 31 Oct & Fri 1 Nov and lots of audience interaction. chime at! This is the highly anticipated www.denbies.co.uk/events Low Bangs Fireworks at Godstone stage show which brings together Kes Traditional children’s disco including Farm Tue 22 Oct & – Wed 23 Oct Gray and Jim Field’s bestselling and party games & dancing Godstone Farm, RH9 8LX Justin Live award-winning picture books Oi Frog!, www.godstonefarm.co.uk See CBeebies superstar and children’s Oi Dog! and Oi Cat! published by the Thu 31 Oct, 4.30pm -6.30pm Tickets to fireworks are strictly limited favourite Justin Fletcher live on stage. Hachette Children’s Group, into one Spooky walk and only available in advance. action-packed musical production. 3+ Claremont Landscape Garden, Fri 25 Oct from £15.50, family ticket £66. Esher, KT10 9JG Sat 2 Nov, Event opens at 5pm, Storytime for the under-fives with www.nationaltrust.org.uk fireworks at 6pm, finishes at 8pm. the London Mozart Players Are you brave enough for a horrifying Fireworks Night at Wisley Children will be taken on an interactive Halloween walk around Claremont? RHS Garden Wisley, Woking, musical journey, featuring their Who knows what’s going to jump out at GU23 6QB favourite animals and nursery rhymes. you? NAA + £1.50 per child. www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley Join RHS Garden Wisley’s first family- New Wimbledon Theatre, friendly, low-bang fireworks display. SW19 1QG 0870 060 6646 www.atgtickets.com/venues/new- wimbledon-theatre 21 Nov – 5 Jan Wed 23 Oct - Sat 26 Oct The Snowman LONDON’S FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS SHOW The Wizard of Oz! Peacock Theatre, Holborn, Join Dorothy, Toto and their three WC2A 2HT sidekicks as they journey down the The enchanting festive favourite, The yellow brick road. Snowman, returns for a magical 22nd year. Based up the book by Raymond The Harlequin Theatre & Cinema, Briggsand produced by John Coates, RH1 1NN, this charming stage adaptation is 01737 276500 guaranteed to transport you to a www.harlequintheatre.co.uk world of wintery adventure as a boy embarks on a magical adventure with Sat 12 Oct his snowman. The pair go on a journey, Based on Raymond Briggs’ The Snowman The Wizard of Oz venturing to the North Pole for some Music and lyrics by Howard Blake Join Ballet Theatre UK, and discover festive frolics before returning home in Black White the wonders of Oz. time for Christmas morning.

LIVE “Sheer theatrical ON STAGE magic. Go see The Snowman and melt” Black overprint 100c 75m 0y 0k The Times

FAMILY TICKET ONLY £120 4 tickets, must include at least 1 child Transaction fee applies. Max £3

21 Nov – 5 Jan Group Published by Hachette Children’s Gray and Jim Field. Based on the books by Kes LYRIC THEATRE 29 NOV - 5 JAN peacocktheatre.com Shaftesbury Avenue nimaxtheatres.com

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