Families NW London Mag 117 Oct 2017

IN THIS ISSUE

Education and School Feature issue

Outdoor Learning

Mindfulness in Schools

Making Maths Fun

Choosing a School

Issue 117 October 2017 FNWMag117.indd 1

familiesonline.co.uk 26/09/2017 23:24

Welcome to the October issue!

CONTACT US: Families North West London Magazine Editors: Heather Waddington and Janine Mergler P.O. Box 2378, Watford WD18 1RF T: 01923 237 004 E: Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk Listings and Features Editor: Anna Blackshaw E: Listings@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

IN THIS ISSUE:

www.facebook.com/ FamiliesNWLondon @FamiliesNWLon Circulation 30,000+ copies every issue.

Published seven times a year. For families from birth to twelve.

6

Choosing the ‘right’ school

7

Can Outdoor Learning Impact Achievement?

8

Mindfullness in School; managing exam stress

10 Open Days 14 Childrens Theatre 15 Halfterm Camps

UPCOMING ISSUES: Nov/Dec 2017 - Seasonal Celebrations Deadline: 10th Oct 2017

Cover image: depositphotos.com

Jan/Feb 2018 - Nurseries and Childcare Deadline: 23 November 2017 Send in your news, stories and advertising bookings to the details left.

Feature images used under license from depositphotos.com. Other images have been supplied by independent sources.

NEWS Enter your Team in Explore Learning’s Maths Competition!

Run in collaboration with the NRICH project at the University of Cambridge, each school entering a team will have the unique opportunity to tackle a never-before-seen mathematical problem. Teams will battle through the heats happening across the country) to win a place at the grand final to be held in Cambridge on Wednesday 13th December 2017.The annual competition is free to enter with the main aim of

inspiring the next generation of mathematicians.

The five finalist teams will be presented with a hilarious maths routine at the University of Cambridge as well as huge prize bundles from the likes of Meccano, Kidzania, Artline and Sum Fun! The deadline for schools to register is Friday 20th October with the first rounds taking place on 8th and 9th November, with the victors going

through to the semi-final on 29th November and the grand final on 13th December. The competition is open to primary school teams made up of two boys and two girls. Schools who want to register a team should head to https://www.explorelearning. co.uk/schools/national-young-mathematiciansawards/. If you are a parent of a maths whizz, speak to their school to register a team.

Introducing DiscoG Coding Academy Centre in Harrow The coding start up for kids!

DiscoG Coding Academy is an initiative set up by Gerard Papet, the former CTO of FTSE 100 companies, to teach children and adults from ages 6+ to code. They have developed a structured yet flexible approach to learning in a relaxed and supportive environment that encourages self-direction and innovative thinking through tutor-led, hands-on sessions. GCSE and A Level tuition is available as well as support through their NEA projects.

After a year of teaching in various locations across North and NW London, they have recently opened their first DiscoG Coding Centre in Harrow at: 504 Kenton Lane, Harrow, HA3 8RD. Free taster class available – call to find out more 07767300940 www.discogcodingacademy.com;

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

2 Families North West London

FNWMag117.indd 2

familiesonline.co.uk

26/09/2017 23:56

NEWS New Opportunity for London Schools to take part in inspiring ‘Stories from Willesden Lane’ initiative The Holocaust Educational Trust (HET) is bringing this multidisciplinary project to educate young students in years 6-8 on the Holocaust and, more specifically, to help them to understand the experiences of those saved by the Kindertransport. Young people across the capital will learn about and reflect on Britain’s response to the plight of the Jews of Europe and will ensure that the stories of the children who rebuilt their lives in Britain are kept alive.

Stories from Willesden Lane is a project based on The Children of Willesden Lane, a book which tells the story of Lisa Jura who was brought to England on the Kindertransport. Lisa was forced to flee her home in Vienna as a young girl and rebuild her life in London during

Autism with Attitude street dance group make history as the first SEN students to qualify for United Dance Organisations World Championships Autism with Attitude street dance group from Hillingdon Manor School, Uxbridge, made history when they qualified as the first special needs dance team to qualify for the United Dance Organisations (UDO) World Championships in Glasgow August 2017 and the UDO European Championships in Kalkar, Germany in May 2018. Hillingdon Manor School is an Outcomes First Group centre of excellence in education and development for children aged 5 - 19 with an autistic spectrum condition (ASC).

The school is delighted with its success and staff are helping them both to hone their dance skills and to prepare for their role as ambassadors, showing what people with autism can achieve.

Now Autism with Attitude is all set to represent the UK at this forthcoming international event.

‘It is a dream come true for me,’ said Jonathan. ‘As a dancer myself I’ve obviously done competitions but it’s quite emotional taking a group of young people with autism into this arena. We keep setting them fresh challenges and now they are taking the mainstream world by storm. This is just huge; they are making history, acting as envoys for all those with special needs around the country.’ www.outcomesfirstgroup.co.uk; www.gb.udostreetdance.com; www.HillingdonManorSchool.org.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

FNWMag117.indd 3

World War Two. Her incredible story will bring home the reality of the Holocaust, and Lisa’s refusal to give up on her dreams is set to inspire thousands of students across London. In an increasingly fragile world, the project will encourage young people to think about their role as active citizens in today’s society and understand the importance of challenging intolerance and prejudice in their communities. HET, the charity committed to educating and raising awareness of the Holocaust in the UK, is also inviting participating schools to attend a musical performance of the story, which will be performed by concert pianist Mona Golabek – Lisa Jura’s daughter. The Pianist of Willesden Lane is a one woman show that has brought this story to life to over 250,000 school children in the US and is now coming back to the city where the story began.

For more information and to be a part of London’s first ever Stories from Willesden Lane project, please visit www.willesdenlane.org.uk

Mum leaps 10,000ft in skydive inspired by three year old son with brain injury Local mum from Stanmore, Niyutee Khetani, swapped jeans for a jumpsuit on 23 September to skydive in aid of The Children’s Trust. Joined by a team of 20, Niyutee was inspired to take on the challenge by her son Kai while he was at the charity for intensive rehabilitation following a road traffic accident.

Kai was left with a serious brain Niyutee with Kai at The Children’s Trust injury in 2016 when he was involved in a road traffic accident. He was only two years old. After hospital treatment to save his life, Kai came to The Children’s Trust for intensive brain injury rehabilitation to try to re-learn how to move and communicate. Niyutee stayed at The Children’s Trust with Kai for 8 months while dad Rakesh visited on weekends.

Niyutee’s skydive is part of #MyBrave, The Children’s Trust campaign encouraging everyone to take on a challenge and do something brave to help raise money for children with brain injury.

If you would like to take part in #MyBrave visit www.mybrave.co.uk

Families North West London 3

26/09/2017 23:57

WHAT’S NEW I’m Wrecked, This is My Journal by Shannon Cullen

The Calm Buddha at Bedtime The stories in Calm Buddha are tales of mindfulness, wisdom & compassion to read with your child. This book is a retelling of 18 traditional Buddhist stories with adult themes such as: actions having consequences, the importance of considering others’ opinions and of speaking up when others don’t.

Calm Buddha is proven to help children let go of anxieties and concerns before winding down to sleep. The stories can, of course, be enjoyed simply as fun stories, but they also encourage children to think more deeply about what is being said when the time is right. This can be easily influenced by the adult-reader through pauses for reflection, asking questions and exploring the beautiful illustrations.

Filled with a mix of funny quotes, doodles and witty lists, I’m Wrecked, This is My Journal will inspire and uplift even the most despairing of sleepdeprived parents. This is the perfect companion for those odd thoughts, bizarre expectations, significant moments and baby firsts. Whether it’s as your parenting highlights hit you in the middle of the night feed, when you’re working your way through the parent maze whilst frantically tapping the baby bouncer or looking for gin in the word search at 9 a.m., this journal will help to raise a smile.

No matter if the day is a parenting win or fail, there is something here to suit every mood, the perfect present for a new parent, parent-to-be or as a self-purchase. I’m Wrecked, This is My Journal is unique, just like parenting itself.

Available from 16 Nov from Amazon and www.watkinspublishing.com RRP £12.99

Michael O’Mara Books; www.mombooks.com RRP £9.99

Seven Simple and Slightly Silly Stories

One Third Stories’

by John Foley

The brainchild of co-founders Alex Somervell and Jonny Pryn, One Third Stories creates books that start in English and end in a different language, seeking to foster a love of languages in children from an early age.

Author and actor John Foley’s Seven Simple and Slightly Silly Stories is a unique, quirky and darkly witty collection of short stories and will be available to buy from October, with all profits donated to Macmillan Cancer Support and The Silver Line.

Full of entertaining and meaningful tales. In each extraordinary case, John’s captivating style expertly combines the fun and whimsy of fantasy writing with surprisingly profound and thoughtprovoking messages along the way. Expect twists and turns, as John captures the true magic of fiction in which anything really can happen.

Available from October, RRP £6.99. www.quizzicalworks.com

Aimed at children between the ages of four and nine years, One Third Stories’ offerings are currently available in French and Spanish on a monthly subscription service where children receive a new storybook, activity book and activity cards each month.

Accompanied by an audiobook to teach pronunciation, and beautiful illustrations to provide a visual element, the books enable children to become competent in a foreign language in a way that is entertaining, while having a lasting positive impact on their learning. www.onethirdstories.com from £10.99 + shipping per month

Paediatric First Aid Courses Sat 4 Nov, Sat 2 Dec - Harrow on the Hill

Suitable for Ofsted Registration.

Includes some home study.

Certificate valid for 3 years Cost = £85

Contact Margaret at mcstraining@hotmail.co.uk or on 07814 191 395 for bookings Other dates available

SportsKids - Multi-Sports Academy

Sports Activities for 4 to 16 year olds

Tel: 01923 255099 E: SportsKids@outlook.com Sportscoach are celebrating 10 years by expanding and rebranding to

SportsKids Academy

American Football - Dodgeball - Handball - Basketball Tag Rugby - Softball - Gaelic Football - Rounders - Athletics Kwik Cricket - Gymnastics - Tennis - Climbing Wall - Fencing Lacrosse - Netball - Volleyball - Archery - Martial Arts - Kin Ball Football - Badminton - Tri Golf - Uni-Hoc We are located in Harrow and Rickmansworth

www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk 4 Families North West London

FNWMag117.indd 4

familiesonline.co.uk

27/09/2017 00:00

Family Health

Firework safety advice

A

s the Diwali Festival of Light and Bonfire Night fast approaches and with all the excitement of rockets and Catherine wheels among adults and kids alike, it can be easy to overlook the potential dangers of bonfire and firework celebrations.

Tips for choosing your fireworks Did you know: Fireworks can travel at speeds of 150 mph, the cruising speed of some biplanes!

Make sure the fireworks you buy are meant for home use, are suitable for the size of your garden and are marked with British Standard number (BS 7114).

You should also: • Store fireworks in a metal box with a lid during the display • Use a torch for checking instructions • Use a taper for lighting fireworks • Have a bucket of water close to hand • Have a bucket or other container of soft earth to stick fireworks in • Use a board or other non-flammable rigid surface for flat-bottomed fireworks • Use supports or launches for Catherine wheels or rockets

Don’t forget the sparklers!

Did you know: If three sparklers burn together they will do so at the same heat of a blowtorch used for joining metal and so it’s essential you follow a few guidelines for safe usage: • Remember to wear gloves so that you do not get burnt • Get an adult to light the sparkler whilst you are holding the base of the stick • Make sure that only one sparkler is lit at a time • Remember to hold the sparkler horizontally and as far away from your body and face as possible • Once you have had fun with the sparkler (try writing your name) and it is no longer burning, make sure you put it in a bucket filled with water • Never touch the end of the sparkler, even long after it has stopped burning Now that you’re clear on keeping your family safe; enjoy your Diwali celebrations on October 19th and Bonfire Night on 5th November!

Don’t want to host your own event?

– check out the organised displays we’ve found

(admission charges may apply – check websites for details) Fri 3 Nov - Abbots Langley Fireworks Display (WD5) www.abbotslangley-pc.gov.uk Fri 3 – Sat 4 Nov – Alexandra Palace Fireworks Festival (N22) www.alexandrapalace.com Sat 4 Nov – Cassiobury Fireworks (WD18) www.watfordbigevents.co.uk Sat 4 Nov - Harrow Fireworks Extravaganza 2017 (HA1) www.harrowcricketclub.co.uk Sat 4 Nov - Battersea Park Fireworks Display (SW11) www.wandsworth.gov.uk Sat 4 Nov – Harrow Fireworks 2017 (HA3) www.harrowfireworks.co.uk Sat 4 Nov – Blackheath Firework Display (SE10) www.lewisham.gov.uk Sat 4 Nov – Wembley Park (HA0) www.brent.gov.uk/fireworks Thurs 2 Nov - Brunel University London Bonfire and Fireworks (UB8) www.fifty.brunel.ac.uk

Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford

call: 0208 123 9346 email: jodiesloan@littlekickers.co.uk

Harrow (HA3), North Wembley and Bushey call: 0208 422 0676 email: niro@littlekickers.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

FNWMag117.indd 5

Families North West London 5

27/09/2017 00:08

Education

How to choose the right Independent School for your family

W

hen assessing schools and making informed choices about the right school for your family, you will need to consider multiple factors. And just as you are assessing and determining which school will suit your family, many schools are also assessing their applicants.

How do Independent School assess applicants?

When looking at an Independent School, it is important to understand that each school has its own preferred method of assessment, be it examination based, interview based, reference based or a combination of methods. It is critical that parents understand the process at their schools of choice.

What can parents use to assess the Independent School?

The Independent Schools Inspectorate ‘assess’ each Independent school, using standard criteria, on a regular basis. All of the information gathered is then used to generate an in depth assessment report, which can be found on the school’s own website and on the Inspectorate’s website too. The assessments rank schools from “Unsatisfactory” through to “Excellent”. If you are looking for first-rate education and pastoral care for your child then you should be seeking a school that has been graded as “Excellent”. Equally important however is the detail within the report, as it is from reading this that you will be able to understand how the school’s values, standards, strengths and weaknesses compare to other schools.

6 Families North West London

FNWMag117.indd 6

How to match your child with the right Independent school Children differ greatly in how they perform during assessment. Academic ability is one area of variation. It is important for a child to be stretched, allowing them to achieve their full potential. However is it equally important to ensure that they are not placed in an environment where they could struggle to reach even the lower levels of requirement. Assessment examinations are a good indicator of how a child will fare in a specific school environment. It is important to find an environment in which your child can thrive. Just because a child is bright enough to learn does not mean they will learn.

For some pupils competition is key and they thrive in a competitive environment. For others, self-confidence needs to be nurtured in the earlier years of their education and they are more likely to excel in a school that offers a welcoming, friendly and supportive ethos.

Asking the right questions The best Independent Schools will encourage parents to ask questions of them and will want engaged parents who are aware of the schools values as well as their academic results. They will invite considered scrutiny.

Sarah Hollis is the Head teacher at Buckingham Prep School. In a recent Inspectorate assessment Buckingham Prep was identified as being “Excellent” in every area - offering a small, supportive, nurturing family environment and achieving outstanding academic results. Visit and enquiries always welcome.

For more information www.buckprep.org.

familiesonline.co.uk

27/09/2017 00:09

Education

Is sitting in classrooms actually reducing children’s achievement?

E

very child at the moment seems to need a fidget spinner.

Some teachers hate them, as a cause of distraction, others have recommended them as a way to help children to focus and cope with sitting at a desk.

But should we be asking our children to ‘cope’? If children are struggling to sit at a desk, then surely trying to teach them whilst sitting at a desk is at best illogical, at worst damaging? In the UK, and particularly in cities, many primary schools don’t have the time or the space to get children outdoors enough.

And why is this so critical? Child development is a mind and body journey. Without gross motor skills (that’s the big movements – running, hopping, jumping, climbing, balancing) children will actually struggle to develop in other areas too. It’s no coincidence that sport is highly valued by top performing schools and universities. Studies have shown that it can actually improve academic achievement.

Being outside has a positive impact on the mental health of both teachers and children too. Last year, Natural England published a study which showed that children who took part in an outdoor education project were more engaged with their learning and showed a marked improvement in their behaviour and improved social skills. Most children and teachers also felt happier and healthier. Other studies have shown outdoor education improves problem solving and team working skills – as well as being something that children find really fun!

The movement to get children learning outside more has been growing – 12th October is ‘Outdoor Classroom Day (www.outdoorclassroomday.org.uk), led by the charity Learning Through Landscapes. There are now more than 15,000 schools involved around the world who have pledged to deliver lessons outside in a natural environment on that day.

Many schools are choosing to embed outdoor education in their curriculum more regularly through approaches such as forest school.

Ros Jenkins, a local parent, has really noticed the impact outdoor education has for her son: “Matty’s school has recently introduced

familiesonline.co.uk

FNWMag117.indd 7

forest school sessions. On those days he comes home so much happier and more relaxed, chatting away about what he’s been learning. Such a contrast to a ‘normal’ school day when his response to questions about his day are usually mono-syllabic!”

In fact, Ros is part of a team of local parents and teachers setting up Mariposa Primary School, a new school in Harrow that plans to deliver a large proportion of its lessons outside. Tracey Francis, the school’s Head Teacher, explains, “When we asked local parents and teachers what our priorities should be, green outside space was a clear concern.

The team have worked incredibly hard to secure an amazing 6 acre green site and we are now developing plans that allow classes to move freely between indoors and outside. This will not only give us the right foundations for excellent academic progress, but also nurture and support children’s broader wellbeing and development, which is so important.”

With more and more schools looking at ways to get children outside, maybe fidget spinners are one craze that soon won’t be needed.

Perhaps the next craze will be the Wellington boot!

Families North West London 7

27/09/2017 00:10

Education

Mindfulness (in Schools)

Exam stress is very real

W

hile tests and tougher standards are making school more stressful than ever for students, it is good to know that a coping mechanism is emerging to counteract this trend – mindfulness is being introduced by more and more schools to help their students, especially during exam time.

The increased stress students feel is very real. An indicator of this is that over 15 000 students called the charity helpline ChildLine in 2016 saying had problems at school, including 27% with exam pressure worries.

This is an 11% rise from the previous year.

When you factor in the fact that only a small number of students probably use the helpline, it gives an idea of the extent of the problem.

Though we have often heard the term these days, the question on most minds is still “What is mindfulness?” According to the Oxford English Dictionary it is “the state or quality of being mindful”. A more helpful definition may be the meaning of the word as part of Buddhist philosophy: “the meditative state of being both fully aware of the moment and of being self-conscious of and attentive to this awareness; a state of

intense concentration on one’s own thought processes; self-awareness”. But as with many things that are embraced by popular culture, wider and possibly weaker definitions and understanding are being applied to the term to help it fit agendas – many believe it is becoming a jargon word for everything from weight loss to bringing down blood pressure (The NHS calls it one of the 5 steps to wellbeing www.nhs.uk/Livewell.

The non-profit Mindfulness in Schools Project (www.mindfulnessinschools.org) has been one of the frontrunners of bringing the practice into schools through its ‘Stop, Breathe and Be’ 10-week programme for 11-18 year olds.

Mindfulness for students helps them to not only do well in exams, but also to focus in the classroom. It helps with general stress relief, especially before and during highstakes testing. A student quoted in an article said that going into an examination after practising mindfulness regularly made it ‘100 times better’. A small study also showed that mindfulness improved concentration in students. However, it has its critics. Some students said it makes them feel sleepy and tired. A blogger on health research, Andre

Tomlin, says it has not had enough robust testing, so there is no evidence that it makes any difference.

Whatever one might think about mindfulness, there seems to be a widely accepted view that it is beneficial, especially in dealing with stress. I am pleased to see that educators are broadening their horizons about what works, recognising that our minds and bodies are linked. We need more creative solutions to school stress, giving our students the tools they will need to be healthy and productive in an increasingly competitive world – one that looks like it might only become more so.

Elisa Gianoncelli is a local Children’s Author, Teacher & Education Expert in Edgware, NW London with over 25 years experience.

You can read more of her blog posts at www.elisagianoncelli.com or visit her tutorial school page www.KidsLearnFast.co.uk

Call us to arrange an individual appointment

8 Families North West London

FNWMag117.indd 8

familiesonline.co.uk

27/09/2017 00:10

Education

Making Maths Fun: How to teach your kids their times tables… easily

H

ands up who got their iPhone out the last time they had to add anything up? You’re not the only one. Relying on a calculator is easy and convenient but getting to grips with maths and, in particular, times tables, is vital for children if they are to succeed at school.

Helping your little ones at home and doing some extra work to ensure they feel confident in their learning can almost be as important as what they do in the classroom. It can, however, be tricky to navigate the teaching journey when you’re not actually a teacher.

The thing that can really turn children off learning their times tables is the practise it will take. Mixing up the way they spend their time practising is important for sparking their interest and holding their attention. Here are some top tips to help you.

What should they know?

How and what children learn in primary school sets them up for success in secondary school. If the foundations are in place for them to be able to work out an equation like 3x6=18 without using a calculator, then they will find it easier when it comes to tackling harder arithmetic. The education curriculum changes, but at the moment, children are required to know 12x12 by the age of nine.

How can you help them know it?

Buy posters of times tables or make your own; you can then stick them up throughout the house. On the wall opposite the loo, or under a magnet on the fridge, so that they are taking it in without even realising it. You can even tape it to the ceiling above their bed so that they have something to talk about with you when you’re snuggling down, after a bed-time story.

Apply it to real life If times tables is something your children can apply to daily life, they will show much more

of an interest. Instead of testing what they know, be playful about it when you’re at the supermarket and they’re helping you with the shopping (it can happen sometimes!). If you’re buying loose fruit and veg, ask them if they know what the price would be if you bought three instead of two.

Find out what works best for your child Like anything with children, once you discover what works best for them – stick to it. If your child learns best using visual aids then go down that route. If, on the other hand, listening and chanting helps them learn, then explore the different types of apps available on the iPad or computer and try downloading some of them. Do still be onhand to explain where they may have gone wrong and encourage them to try again.

Pick out the patterns Come on, admit it; everyone has a favourite times table. It’s probably your favourite because you find it the easiest to remember or you like the pattern. Picking up on things like this will make it easier for your little ones to learn. The 9 times table has one of the

easiest patterns to remember because, whilst the tens go up each time, the other number just goes down; 9, 18, 27, 36, 45, 54, 63, 72, 81 and 90.

Don’t bring your own feelings into it Teaching methods have changed a lot since us parents were learning our times tables.

Ordering yourself something like Maths for Mums and Dads could help if you are feeling outside of our comfort zone when you’re topping up the teaching at home. Discovering new ways of learning can make it fun for both of you.

Build their confidence There is more to maths than arithmetic and it’s important that your little ones don’t lose interest in maths as a subject because it feels too difficult or seems too time consuming.

Break down learning into bite-size chunks and make it as playful as possible. Encourage your children and praise them for trying when they do. Show them how far they have come since last week or last month and this should spur them on to keep improving.

Visit www.FamiliesOnline.com/Education for more great learning ideas!

ROXETH MEAD SCHOOL ESTABLISHED 1859

Independent school for boys and girls between 3 years and 7+ Small classes Dedicated staff Excellent academic record Caring and supportive atmosphere ◆ Happy, considerate and confident children Vacancies sometimes available for 5 and 6 year olds.

Contact the Headteacher ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆

Tel: 020 8422 2092 E-mail: info@roxethmead.com www.roxethmead.com Buckholt House, 25 Middle Road, Harrow HA2 0HW

familiesonline.co.uk

FNWMag117.indd 9

Families North West London 9

27/09/2017 00:11

Education Independent School Open Days Please check school websites to confirm in advance of visiting advertised open days.

Listings are subject to change.

Aldenham School Elstree WD6 Boys and Girls 3-18 yrs (Boarding/ Day) enquiries@aldenham.com

Open Day: Sat 7 Oct, 10am-12.30pm. Prep School 01923 851664. Senior School 01923 858122

Alpha Preparatory School Harrow HA1 Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs. www.alpha.harrow.sch.uk

Open Day: By appointment 0208 427 1471

Bales College Kensal Town W10 Boys and Girls 11+ www.balescollege.co.uk

Open Day: By appointment 020 8960 5899 to register

Buxlow Preparatory and Nursery School Wembley HA9 7QJ Boys and Girls 0 - 11yrs (Day) www.buxlowschool.org.uk

Open Morning: By appointment. 020 89043615

Buckingham Prep School Pinner HA5 Boys School 4-11 years www.buckprep.org

Open Day: Wed 11 Oct, 9am-12pm. 020 8866 2737.

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School Elstree WD6 Boys 5-18 yrs. www.habsboys.org.uk

Open Day: Sat 7 Oct, 1-4pm (Prep & Sen Sch). Sat 4 Nov, 9.30am-1.30pm (Pre-Prep). 020 8266 1700

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Girls’ School Elstree WD6 Girls 4-18 yrs. www.habsgirls.org.uk

Open Day: Jun Sch Open Day: Sat 7 Oct, 10am-12.30pm; Sen Sch Open Day: Sat 7 Oct, 2-5pm. Jun Sch in Action: Wed 11 Oct; Tue 7 Nov, all 9.15am. Sen Sch in Action: Wed 4 Oct; Wed 8 Nov, all 9.30am: 020 8266 2302 email ldevine@habsgirls. org.uk

High Elms Manor School Watford WD25, Boys and Girls 6 months – 11 years. www.highelmsmanorschool.com

Open Day: By appointment. 01923 681103

The John Lyon School Harrow on the Hill HA2. Boys 11-18 yrs. www.johnlyon.org

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8515 9400

Krishna Avanti Primary School Edgware HA8. Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs. www.avanti.org.uk/kapsharrow

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8381 3344

Mariposa Primary School (opening Sept 2018) Harrow HA1 Boys and Girls 4-11 yrs www.mariposaprimaryschool.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment. admissions@mariposaprimaryschool.org.uk

Merchant Taylor’s Prep Rickmansworth WD3 Boys 4-13. Northwood HA6 Boys 11-18yrs www.mtpn.org.uk www.mtsn.org.uk

Open Day: Prep: Fri 6 Oct, 9.45am-12pm (Y1-Y8) 01923 845514 (Senior)

North London Collegiate School Edgware HA8 Girls 4-18yrs. www.nlcs.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment. Jun Sch 020 8952 1276, Sen Sch 020 8951 6481/6468.

Northwood College Northwood HA6. Girls 3-18 yrs. www.northwoodcollege.gdst.net

Open Day: Sat 7 Oct, 9.30am-1.30pm (Whole School); Tue 10 Oct, Fri 2 Feb, Wed 2 May, 9.30-11am (Early Yrs & Jun Sch); Wed 11 Oct, Fri 23 Feb, Thu 3 May, 9.30-11am (Sen Sch) 01923 825446.

10 Families North West London

FNWMag117.indd 10

familiesonline.co.uk

27/09/2017 00:11

Education Independent School Open Days Orley Farm Harrow-on-the-Hill HA1 Boys and Girls 4-13yr www.orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk

Open Day: Sat 7 Oct, 10am. 020 8869 7634/7600

Quainton Hall School Harrow, HA1. Boys 2.5-13yrs, Girls 2.5-11 yrs. www.quaintonhall.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment. admin@quaintonhall.org.uk 020 8861 8861

Reddiford School Pinner HA5 Boys and Girls 2yrs 9months – 11 yrs. www.reddiford.co.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8866 0660

Roxeth Mead School HA2 Boys & Girls 3-7yrs. www.roxethmead.com

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8422 2092

The Royal Masonic School for Girls Rickmansworth WD3 – Ruspini House Pre School (boys and girls aged 2-4) Cadogan House Pre-Prep and Prep Department (girls aged 4-11), Senior School (girls aged 11-18)

Open Day: Sun 8 Oct, 2-5pm. 01923 725354

Saint Jérôme CofE Bilingual School Harrow HA1 Boys and Girls 4-11 yrs www.stjeromebilingual.org

Open Day: Tue 10 Oct, Thu 9 Nov, Tue 5 Dec, all 9.30-10.30am.

020 7932 1178

Stanborough School Watford WD25 Boys and Girls 4-18yrs.

Boarding/Day. www.spsch.org

Open Day: By appointment 01923 673268

St Christopher’s School, Wembley HA9 8HE Boys & Girls 4 – 11 years (day) admin@stchristophersschool.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment 020 8902 5069

St John’s CofE Primary School (opening Sept 2016) Watford WD17 Boys and Girls 4-11 yrs www.stjohnswatford.co.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 01923 255 017

St Helen’s School Northwood HA6. Girls, 3-18 yrs. www.sthelens. london

Open Day: Wed 1 & Thu 2 Nov, 9.30am-12pm (whole sch) 01923 843230

St Hilda’s Preparatory School for Girls Bushey WD23 3-11yrs. www.sthildasbushey.com

Open Day: Sat 7 Oct, 9.30am-12pm. 0208 950 1751

St John’s School Northwood HA6 Boys aged 3-13. www.st-johns.org.uk

Open Day: Wed 11 Oct, 9.15am. 020 8866 0067

Wat

St. Margaret’s School Bushey WD23 Girls 4-18 yrs (boarding/day) www.stmargaretsbushey.org.uk

Open Day: Thu 12 Oct, Fri 17 Nov, Tue 20 Feb, all 9.15-11.15am. . 020 8901 0872

Ope

St. Martin’s School Northwood HA6. Boys 3-13 yrs www.stmartins.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 01923 825 740

Wat

St Nicholas Prep School and Nursery, Kingsbury NW9 8PN 3mths – 11 yrs. www.stnicholasschool.org.uk; www.stnicholasnursery.org.uk

Open Day: Fri 27 Oct, 9.30am-12pm. 020 8205 7153

York House Rickmansworth WD3. Boys and Girls 3-13 yrs www.york-house.com

Open Day: Thu 5 Oct, 9.30-11.30am (Nursery-yr 2); Sat 7 Oct, Sat 10 Mar, Sat 19 May, all 9.30am-12pm (Nursery-yr 8). 01923 772 395

Scho

Rick

Ope

St C

Ope

St Jo

Ope

The

Ope

Ope

Wes

Ope

Bush

Ope

The

Ope

Que

Ope

The

Ope

Fran

Ope

Parm

Ope

St M

Ope

familiesonline.co.uk

FNWMag117.indd 11

Families North West London 11

27/09/2017 00:12

Local Clubs and Classes Directory PARTIES LEGO® Engineering Clubs, Parties And Workshops. E2 Young Engineers programmes inspire young people to be innovative critical thinkers and problem solvers by exploring aspects of engineering and science building working models using our custom made kits. Programmes available for ages 4 – 99! Build self-confidence, resilience and creativity through play! www.young-engineers. co.uk Central and West London:  07522 602 122  Info.westlondon@youngengineers.co.uk Hertfordshire & Middlesex:  07454 363 766 Shelina@ young-engineers.co.uk  07565 195 895  Smita@young-engineers.co.uk Perform Parties - Based around a colourful theme, Perform’s energetic party leaders use a magical mix of songs, games and laughter to create fun-filled, action-packed parties. Call 0207 255 9120 or visit performparties.co.uk Silly Millie the Clown - parties for 3 - 9 year olds. Funny magic show, puppet’s, party games, silly songs & balloon animals. 020 7823 8329 or 07939 239 397 www.sillymillietheclown.co.uk Totally Pamper Me – Girls Pampering, Spa and Photogrpahy Parties. See our website for our ethos and range of packages and services. *working with Magic FM’ Cash for Kids, we dontate part of our profits from each party to help disabled, disadvantaged, abused or neglected children in the local community. www. totallypamper.me; 0800 080 7967 The Windmill Studio Centre (HA4) Fun for kids, hassle-free for parents, birthday parties at The Windmill Studio Centre, Ruislip Manor, for 1-10 years boys & girls include invitations, party leader & assistant(s), freshly prepared food, decorations, music, lights, games, dancing, props and prizes. Optional extras - adult refreshments, face-painting and party bags. Lots of themes from Princesses and Super Heroes to Monsters, Trolls, Makers and Mad Hatters! Modern & clean venue.  01895 624755  thewindmillstudio@gmail.com www.thewindmillstudio.com

CLASSES FOR GROWN-UPS Adult Art Classes in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, painting and mixed media art classes for adults. Weekday morning studio sessions in a relaxed, supportive environment.  020 8954 2897 or 07500 006 099  myartclub@yahoo.co.uk Capital Connection Chorus - female A capella harmony (HA4) Calling women who love to sing! Particularly need lower range voices at present. Perfect way to meet new friends and sing with a great group of women. Wed night 7.45pm to 10.30pm at Ruislip Community Centre.  www.capitalconnection.org.uk Eggless Cake Delights (HA) offer eggless baking, cake decorating and dessert classes for kids & adults in Harrow. Classes are held in small groups in hands on and Demo format, during weekdays, weekends and during term holidays in a friendly environment.  07737847405 or info@egglesscakedelights.com.  www.egglesscakedelights.com The Veggie Kitchen (HA7) Pure vegetarian cookery courses in Stanmore.

Specialising in Indian cuisines, as well as Thai, Chinese and many more, students learn to cook nutritious and delicious vegetarian meals in a friendly and homely environment. Group and one-to-one hands on courses.  0208 204 1906  www.veggiekitchen.co.uk Yogabellies Aquabellies (various) Beautiful water based yoga classes for women throughout their lives. The sessions incorporate traditional yoga asanas (postures) adapted for water, water relaxations and positive life building experiences for women, mothers and mothers to be.

There are AquaBellies - Aquanatal yoga for pregnancy, AquaMamas, post natal and AquaBelles aqua yoga classes suitable for all women. NEW YogaBelles: yoga designed for a unique women’s body.  07840 904887  anjli@yogabellies.co.uk www.yogabellies.co.uk/members/anjli

First Aid MCS Training (HA1, HA5) Paediatric First Aid Course. Accepted for full and voluntary Ofsted Registration. Certificate valid for 3 yrs.  Margaret 07814 191 395  mcstraining@hotmail.co.uk

LANGUAGES AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT Baby Lab (WC1E) Have fun for free with your baby making discoveries about brain development at the Centre for Brain & Cognitive Development. Birkbeck College, Malet St, London. Travel expenses refunded. 020 7631 6258  www. cbcd.bbk.ac.uk Chinmaya UK (HA) Do you want your children to connect to their Indian culture through stories, games and celebration of festivals? Go along to Bal Vihar classes to explore culture and values in an engaging, positive environment. Every Sunday in Harrow and Hendon for children aged 5-17.  bv@chinmayauk.org www.

chinmayauk.org  07812 146428 Gujarati Masti Maja classes by Sansaar (HA5) Fun and interactive Gujarati music, song and dance classes for 3 to 6 year olds in North London, to help your child speak Gujarati confidently. Saturday morning at 9am and 10am at St Lawrence Church in Eastcote, Pinner.  www.sansaar.org Little Stars Baby Club (HA9) A fun and friendly baby club where new mums with babies from birth to sitting can relax and meet new friends whilst babies play and explore with a range of lovely sensory toys. Every Friday 9:30-11:15am at Powell Suites @ Chalkhill Community Centre, The Welford Centre, 113 Chalkhill Road, Wembley Park HA9 9FX. £2.00  0208 385 1836  littlestarswembley@gmail.com The Northwood Speech and Language Therapy Practice (HA6) An independent service covering a range of children’s communication difficulties.  01923 824 074  www.northwoodpractice.co.uk Portuguese for Children (NW6) Every Saturday, from 10am to 12pm, the International Gospel Church on Belsize Road will be open for children from 4 to 12 years of Brazilian-English parents to enrol. Lessons will include how to read and write and Brazilian culture, including music. Lessons run from September and February 2016 and are free.  contact@igclondon.org.uk

Sign Language Sing and Sign (Various) Fun classes combining the benefits of baby signing with music to develop language, memory and attention skills. Babies 6-30 months.

Bushey, Rickmansworth, Stanmore and Harrow.  www.singandsign.com

ACTIVITY CENTRES Aspire National Training Centre, Kidz Zone activities (HA7) Wide range of activities available from 6mths to 12yrs.  020 8954 5759  kidzzone@aspire.org.uk. Wood Lane, Stanmore, HA7 4AP JAMtots (HA4) An Interactive daytime activity centre for parents with babies and toddlers. All pay as you go with a variety of sessions that include Parent & Toddler Groups, Musical Tots, Gym Tots and one off events plus special visits from Jimmy the JAMtots Bear.  01895 624755  thewindmillstudio.com Rumble Tumble Harrow (HA1) Harrow’s only indoor supervised soft play children’s play group. Why not take advantage of the Drop & Shop facility and have a stress free shop, or book a special event in the Party Room available for all occasions. You can even relax and have a snack in the restaurant while your little ones are playing.  0208 427 8847  info@rumble-tumble.com www.rumble-tumble.com The Windmill Studio Centre (HA4) An exciting activity centre that has just about everything to offer for all ages from babies to adults.  01895 624755  www. thewindmillstudio.com

MUSIC & MOVEMENT Beat Building Vibrant & energising music classes using African drums and funky percussion. Great songs and games get the imagination glowing & introduce the concepts of beats, rhythmic patterns, time keeping & also encourage sharing, taking turns and listening. A wonderful introduction to music and rhythm, beat Building is brilliantly fun!  07721 623 171  info@beatbuilding.co.uk www. beatbuilding.co.uk www.facebook.com/beatbuilding Colourstrings (various) Music Kindergartens for babies, toddler, and children up to 6 yrs with small, age-related classes. Classes are enjoyable and inspire learning, developing inner hearing and core music skills. New class starting in Hendon in Jan 2017.  020 8444 9435  www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk Diddi Dance Harrow & North Hillingdon (various) At diddi dance we enhance children’s endless energy and enthusiasm through funky, full of fun sessions that build confidence, co-ordination and creativity. Classes in Pinner,Ruislip & Stanmore with new ones opening soon. To book a FREE TRIAL contact tejal. patel@diddidance.com Mini Maniacs (Various) Multi award nominated classes that are filled with music, dance and exploration – plus plenty of excitement. Focusing on a range of engaging activities, the classes take you up tempo then down tempo, leaving parent and child feeling like they’ve been on a tummy tickling roller coaster!  Contact hilda@mini-maniacs.com www.mini-maniacs.com Monkey Music (Various) Award-winning Monkey Music introduces babies and young children to music in a way they understand and enjoy - and is brilliant fun for children and adults too! The unique four-stage curriculum, written by classically trained musicians, ensures that classes are a “good fit” for pre-schoolers. Parents across the UK have voted it as “Best National Toddler Development Activity” and “Best National Pre-school Development Activity”. Age guides are as follows: Rock’n’ Roll from 3m, Heigh Ho from 1yr, Jiggety Jig from 2rs, Ding Dong 3- 5yrs. Classes are open 6 days a week, at venues in Uxbridge,

Directory editor: Anna Blackshaw Eastcote, Northwood, Harrow and Stanmore.  020 8427 6595  www.monkeymusic.com

SPORTS AND EXERCISE Better leisure centres (various) We exist to make community services and spaces better for everyone. That means providing access to quality community leisure and fitness facilities - and more - at a price everyone can afford. SAVE! £10 off a junior lesson or course booking before 31st October 2017  www.better.org. uk/families Capoeira Academy UK (HA) Classes in Stanmore providing outstanding and fun classes for children aged 4+years. A unique blend of martial arts, dance, acrobatics and music; capoeira develops skills for life with inspiring and nurturing teachers.  07841342874  capoeiracademyuk@gmail.com www. capoeiracademyuk.com Enjoy-a-Ball classes (Various) Sports coaching for 3-9 yr olds in a fun, positive and non-competitive environment. Ten ball sports for the perfect introduction to sport. Physi-ball classes - Ball skills and core skills for toddlers aged 18mths to 3 yrs. Classes run in Mill HIll, Finchley, Golders Green and Muswell Hill. Call 0333 334 0845 or 07763746886 to book a trial session. Enjoy-a-Ball parties are for superactive 3 - 9 year olds. They are full of high energy games loved by boys and girls alike!  0333 334 0845 or 07763746886  www.enjoy-a-ball.com northlondon@enjoy-a-ball.com Everyone Active (various) Why should your child learn to swim? Swimming is lots of fun for people of all ages and also provides loads of health benefits which can help to keep you and your children healthy and happy at the same time. What’s more, swimming is the only sport which can save your child’s life. Drowning is still one of the most common causes of accidental death in children, so being able to swim is an essential life-saving skill. To find out more about learning to swim at your local leisure centre visit  www.everyoneactive.com.

Field End Flyers Saturday Morning Community Cycle Club (HA5) Saturday in Term Time, Field End Rd for ages 5–11 yrs. Join the friendly team of British Cycling Coaches at 9.45am, and learn fun skills, race on the amazing fully enclosed Cycle Track, make new friends and enjoy a whole morning of fun till 12.30 (refreshment break half way through). All you need is your own bike, helmet, gloves and water bottle and a shower proof jacket.  Tracey fieldendflyers@gmail.com Harrow Junior Hockey Club (HA1) run sessions for children aged 4- 16 years on Sunday mornings and Tuesday evenings at The John Lyon School Playing Fields, Sudbury Hill, Harrow, Middlesex HA1 3NA. Everyone welcome please contact us for more information  harrowhcjuniors@outlook.com Little Kickers (Various) Enabling children aged 18mths up to their 7th birthday to develop their coordination, balance and agility through football activity classes Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet  020 8201 1084  jlevene@littlekickers.co.uk. Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford  0208 123 9346  jodiesloan@ littlekickers.co.uk or Harrow (HA3) Bushey and North Wembley  0208 422 0676  niro@littlekickers.co.uk www.littlekickers.co.uk Rugbytots - the UK’s first rugby based play programme for 2-7 year olds. Focusing on developing your child’s motor skills and confidence with fun-filled programmes aimed at improving general ball skills, balance, agility and coordination.

Currently classes in Watford, Rickmansworth, Bushey and Stanmore.  For more information contact charlie@rugbytots.co.uk SportsKids Academy (WD3 & HA3) Multi-sports Activities for children. All students are taught in small groups of similar age and ability. Mini academy ages 4-6 years (an hour and a half) Main Academy 6-16 years (3 hours). (Previously known as SportsCoach.) Held at JFS The Mall Kenton and Rickmansworth Masonic School Rickmansworth  01923255099  sportskids@outlook.com www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk White Crane Karate School (HA8) Karate classes for ages 4 years and above held in Edgware, East Finchley, Finchley Central , Stanmore and Harrow Weald. Adult classes in Barnet.  Sheena 0787 550 1674  whitecraneedgware34@hotmail. co.uk www.karatewhitecrane.co.uk Y Active (HA2) New Harrow classes booking now for children and adults at the YMCA. A beautiful studio with free parking and a play garden. Baby, Ballet, Gym, Soft Play and Classes from £4.40.  020 8832 1576  yactive@ymcawestlondon. org www.ymcawestlondon.org

Massage & Yoga Positiv-Life Fitness (various) Specialise in Small group Personal training Pregnancy Pilates, Mum & Baby Yoga & Postnatal Pilates, Baby Massage & Fitness for Mums for those in & near Eastcote, Ruislip, Harrow, Pinner, Northwood, Uxbridge, & Maida Vale West London. info@positivlifefitness.com  07974 062 973  www.positivlifefitness.com www.facebook.com/positivlifefitness > Twitter @PositivLifeFit YogaBelliesKidz Family yoga (HA & WD) Share the mental and physical benefits of yoga...peace of mind, relaxation and increases body strength and flexibility!

YogaBellies Mum and Baby yoga: Monday afternoons (birth to 10 months) YogaBellies Little Angels pre-school yoga (18 months to 4 years): Sat mornings, Bushey YogaBelliesKidz family yoga (children 4-12 years): Sat & Sun mornings, Bushey NEW: YogaBelles Mum and Daughter (13-16 years): Weekday evening, Bushey  07840 904887  anjli@yogabellies.co.uk; www.yogabellies.co.uk/members/ anjli

Swimmimg Aqua Vie Swimming based on effortless swimming and true water confidence. Fun classes for babies & Children from 6wks+ to all ages including Adults. New Tues, Wed & Sunday morning classes in Bushey WD23. Tel 01923 245 772 www.aqua-vie. com or email office@aqua-vie.com Splashtime Swim School (various) Swimming lessons, Holiday clubs and After school club held at Quainton Hall School. Swimming lessons also held at Merchant Taylors School and Uxendon Manor Primary School.  Splashtime Swim School  07903126486 Children’s Activities 07794078452

THEATRE AND PERFORMING ARTS Beverley School of Performing Arts (HA8) After school & Saturday classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Street, Singing & Drama for boys and girls aged 3-18years.

ISTD and LAMDA examinations to advanced level.  07974 750 224  www. beverleydance.co.uk.

12 Families North West London

FNWLIssue117.indd 12

familiesonline.co.uk

27/09/2017 00:38

Local Clubs and Classes Directory JAM2000 Performing Arts & Agency (HA4) Truly like no other, with classes available from 2.5 years – adults, male and female plus an incredibly busy agency that is always looking for new recruits!  01895 624755  www.jam2000.co.uk Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools (Various) A new school year is here, which means that children across London and the Home Counties are taking to the stage as Jigsaw begins an exciting new term of drama, singing and dance classes; the perfect activity to escape the cold, wet October weekends.Performing arts classes are an excellent way to build confidence and social skills and are lots of fun. For more information or to book a two-week trial, visit www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk or call 020 8447 4530.

Italia Conti Ruislip (HA5) Performing Arts School for students 2yrs to adult, at Haydon School in Eastcote. ISTD Ballet, Tap and Modern, Street dance, Break Dance, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Singing, LAMDA, acting, Gymnastics, Lyrical and much more! Shows twice a year at Harrow Arts Centre. Call or email for a Free Trial  20 8838 8747 info@italiacontiruislip.co.uk www.italiacontiruislip.co.uk Perform (various) weekly drama, dance and singing classes. Confidence building fun for 4-12s. A unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child’s true potential. Classes are kept small to ensure lots of individual attention. Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions for newcomers, from Saturday 2nd September - Sunday 17th December 2017.  020 7255 9120  enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts (HA1, HA4, HA7, WD3) Performance based theatre school with venues based in Harrow, Rickmansworth, Ruislip and Stanmore where children aged 3-21 attend weekly classes in preparation for full scale Musical Theatre productions.  01923 437693  www.SharpeAcademy.co.uk Stagecoach (Various) Training in three disciplines: drama, dance and singing. Great for building confidence, making new friends and beginning to hone talent and enthusiasm for performing, or being coaxed out of their shell by having fun!  Harrow 020 3504 0100 Harrow on the Hill & Sudbury Hill 01923 248 294 Stanmore & Harrow Weald 020 3504 2154 Watford 01727 768 738 Queen’s Park 020 7723 5861 Northwood 01442 263 599  www.stagecoach.co.uk Wordworks Studio (HA5) Individual and group classes in Speech, Drama and Communication Skills for children 3-18yrs.  wordworksstudio@ymail.com

Dance Futunity UK Academy of Sport and Dance (UB8) Purpose built facility in Uxbridge City Centre. Classes for children ages 2 all the way through to adults. Hip Hop, Street Dance, Gymnastics, Free Running, Breakdancing, Ballet (RAD), Tap (ISTD), Contemporary, Cheerleading, Pole Fitness, and Children’s Parties. Classes range from beginners to advanced/competitive levels. Three fully equipped studios available for hire, at very competitive rates. Futunity UK also supply dance (all genres) and gymnastics teachers into schools to run after/before school extra curricular sessions, and PE and PPA cover lessons. 01895 251224  admin@futunityuk.com www. futunityuk.com Instep School of Ballet (HA/WD) Trains students of all ages and abilities in ballet, tap, pointe and performance. The school offers examinations with the Royal Academy of Dance (ballet) and the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance (tap), and all teachers are fully qualified and registered with the RAD and ISTD. They produce a summer show each year. Classes in Harrow, North Harrow and Bushey.  07814 793 772  instepschoolofballet@yahoo.co.uk www.instepschoolofballet.co.uk Karan’s Bollywood Masterclass (Various) Learn a fusion of Bollywood, Bhangra, HipHop and Salsa at our weekly classes. Open to Toddlers, Children & Adults the courses are Fun, Motivating and KBM offers many performance opportunities. All dance levels welcome. Contact our friendly team for your class registration.  0208 423 9543/07944 457 984  www.kspark.co.uk Lorna Clark School of Dance (Various) Established for over 40 years, training students from 3-18 yrs - Ballet, Tap, Modern, Classical Greek and National. Royal Academy of Dance Examinations are taken in Ballet from Primary to Advanced Level and ISTD exams in all other Genre to the same standard. All classes held in South Harrow/ Eastcote. Book a free No Obligation Lesson with this advert.  0208 8662105 or 01923 285380.  www.lornaclarkschoolofdance.co.uk The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance (HA7) Ballet classes to develop poise, technique and expression through dance, for boys and girls aged 3-16 years with Royal Academy of Dance examinations  020 8950 2457  www vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk

ARTS AND CRAFTS Art Classes for Kids (and Adults) in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, painting and mixed media art classes for children and adults. On-going, small groups Monday–Thursday afternoons and Saturday mornings in Term Time for children from Year 1 up. Weekday morning studio sessions for adults in a relaxed, supportive environment.  020 8954 2897 or 07500 006 099  myartclub@yahoo.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

FNWLIssue117.indd 13

Art and Craft Club (HA5) Term time, Mon 4.30-5.30, Sat 10-11am or 11-12pm at Harrow Arts Centre. New activities introduced every term; drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, sewing, fabric printing and much more! For 5-11yr olds. Materials provided.

Qualified teachers.  07946 055 422  info@mysistersandme.co.uk Artzania Art and Craft Activity Club (HA) A new and exciting Arts and Crafts activity club for children ages 1-11 yrs open during term time and holidays. They offer and Mother Toddler Group art club (aged 1-4 yrs) and an After-school/ Holiday Club (ages 5-11yrs) Contact to book your place:  Keshma 07419343105  keshma.artzania@ gmail.com Blank Canvas Art Club (HA4) Do your kids love Art? Then welcome to the club!

Sign them up for these fun classes where I teach art techniques to 5+, 7+ and 11-18 year olds. Weekly term time classes & holiday workshops, with public or small group private options are available in Ruislip Manor & Eastcote. Special member’s benefits, sibling discounts and a refer a friend scheme are available so why not book now & let them develop a love of Art that will last a lifetime! Contact Suzi at (E)blankcanvasartclub@gmail.com, (M) 07773 819 603 www.Facebook.com/ BlankCanvasArtClub Messmakers! (HA5) A gentle and fun introduction to creative arts for the very young and their families, with lots of mess and none of the tidying up! Exploring different materials and textures each week. Ages under 5, come dressed for mess!  0208 416 8989  www.harrowarts.com/family Stitch Club (HA5) Stitch and Sketch Club for children and teens. Start with simple hand sewing then developing sewing machine and design techniques to design and create your own items. Saturday Sketch Club develops looking and drawing skills and confidence. Also parties and one-off workshops. Adults’ weekly Dressmaking sessions and occaisional Beginners workshops. W: stitch.club E: sam@stitch.club

AFTER SCHOOL CLUB/EDUCATION SUPPORT 1Point4Teacher (HA) Do you have a child in KS1 and KS2? Would you like to improve on their end of year report? Does your child need more of a challenge?

Then give 1Point4Teacher a try today. Lessons from a qualified primary school teacher, with a class ratio of 1 adult to 4 children. We offer English tuition on Mondays and Tuesdays, covering reading comprehension and SPAG (spellings, punctuation and grammar) with math lessons taking place on a Wednesday. We are located in Harrow, 5 minutes from Kenton Library. For further information visit www.1Point4Teacher.co.uk or email the Head Tutor Mrs Edwin on info@1point4teacher.co.uk Beavers/Cubs/Scouts (various) the UK’s biggest mixed youth organisation theye change lives by offering 6 to 25-year-olds fun and challenging activities, unique experiences, everyday adventure and the chance to help others so that we make a positive impact in communities. www.scouts.org.uk Brownies and Guides (Various) Rainbow, Brownie and Guide Units exist across the area which provide fun activities for girls aged from 5 onwards.  www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested or  Peggy Brand 020 8205 7597 Champs Learning (HA1) A very structured tuition course for English, Maths, Science and 11+ exams. Courses run at Harrow College.  020 3004 9007 www. champslearning.co.uk Click IT! Computer lessons for Children (HA2) Fun, exciting and educational weekly computer lessons for children aged 2-5. Classes held at nursery schools all over North West London. Have fun learning with technology: mouse and keyboard skills and devices including graphic tablets, trackpads and digital microscopes. Every lesson is designed to complement the EYFS curriculum. Free trials available.  020 8434 7111.  www.clickit-kids.co.uk. wendy@clickit-kids.co.uk.

DiscoG Coding Boot Camp (various) Weekly Coding Programme teaches Primary and Secondary School children the basics of coding. Using the Python Programming Language and the Raspberry Pi 3 your child will create fun and engaging gadgets that spring to life with lights and sensors, and prototyping devices that will ‘amaze and inspire’. Tailored courses written to support the National Curriculum for GCSE and A Levels. Adult courses are also available.  Gerard on 07767 300940  info@discogcodingacademy.com www.discogcodingacademy.com Elisa’s Tutorial School (HA8) Experienced private tutor in Edgware. Programmes for children from 2.5-16 yrs. If your child needs a little extra help, in English maths verbal and non-verbal 4+ 7+ and 11+ preparing for entrance exams or you just want to give them every advantage, Elisa can help. 99% success rate.  020 8958 1192 07956868119  www.childrensstories.net www.kidslearnfast. co.uk Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Visit their website to find your nearest centre or call to book a free trial class!  www.explorelearning.co.uk.

Field End Flyers Saturday Morning Community Cycle Club (HA5) Every Saturday in Term Time adjacent to Field End Junior School, Field End Road, Eastcote, Middx HA4, for all children aged 5 – 11 years. Join the friendly team of British Cycling Coaches at

9.15am prompt, and learn fun skills, race on the amazing fully enclosed Cycle Track, make new friends (for both children and parents) and enjoy a whole morning of fun till 11.30 - (refreshment break half way through). All you need is your own bike, helmet, gloves and water bottle and a shower proof jacket.  Contact Tracey at fieldendflyers@gmail.com The Harrow Woodcraft Folk (HA) Elfin group for children, 6 to 9 year olds are reopening their group after the Summer holidays on Tuesday 6th September in Central Harrow. Parents wishing to join their children should contact the District Secretary; John Woolf:  020 8428 2409 or  e-mail: harrow@woodcraft.org.uk For more information regarding Harrow Woodcraft Folk visit their web site: www. harrowwoodcraftfolk.btck.co.uk/HowtoJoin Holidaytime After school club is part of Activetime Children’s Activities limited (HA1) Pick’s up from four local school’s at the end of the school day, then take the children back to the club for a snack and the daily activity. They are open MondayFriday 3pm-6pm  Nicole 07794078452  holidays@activetime.co.uk www. activetime.co.uk Integratedbrain - Improve Co-ordination for learning! (UB5) Activities to help those with poor co-ordination, dyspraxia, dyslexia or fine motor difficulties. Small groups of 4/5 children working to develop better all-round motor integration.  Usha Patel 07766 837 616  ushapatel.raviv@gmail.com www.integratedbrain. co.uk JKEducate Educational Consultancy and Tutoring (various) Tutoring, Assessments, Consultancy for children 5-18yrs. 7+, 11+, GCSE, A Levels, SEN, EFL.  020 3488 0754  www.jkeducate.co.uk Knowledge Above Standard (HA7) Maths, English, Verbal and non-verbal reasoning, 7+, 11+ 13+ exam preparation.  07985 588 085  www.knowledgeabovestandard.co.uk Leaders are Readers (HA5 & N21) Offer specialist experience and accelerated learning in their award winning Saturday School, and also run popular Summer and Winter Schools during holidays. 2 hours spent per subject, including English, Maths, Learning to Read and Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. All programmes are for ages 3.5 to 11 and the success rate is 90% for helping pupils prepare to sit entrance exams, including 4+, 5+, 7+ and 11+. Childcare vouchers accepted.  01992 651 300  www.leadersarereaders.co.uk Little Big Leaders Ltd (HA7) 2 courses for the price of 1 in Maths and English or Maths and Reading. Lessons take place on a Saturday at, Edgware, Rickmansworth or Bushey call now 020 3637 6266  www.littlebigleaders.com.

The London Tutors (Various) Specialises in providing 11 Plus classroom based learning, to yr 4 and 5 students. Prepare students to sit exams for Grammar and private schools.  For a call back email your name and number to info@ thelondontutors.co.uk Math’scool Award-winning Maths Tuition plus out-of-lesson homework support.  0333 12 33 445  www.mathscool.com Number Works ‘n’ Words (Eastcote) After school Maths and English tuition classes which target identified needs to improve achievement levels. They set goals for your child, monitor progress and provide regular progress reports. Cater for all levels from Reception to Year 11.  www.numberworksnwords.co.uk Pinner Tuition Centre (Pinner) After school and Sat tuition for Reception to Year 11 by fully qualified teachers. Tuition in Maths, Reading, Spelling, Writing, SATS, 11+ and GCSE. FREE ASSESSMENT. Ofsted Registered.  www.pinnertuitioncentre.co.uk The Play Shelter After School Club at Malorees Infant & Junior Schools (NW6) - 3.30pm to 6pm term time. Play schemes available out of term-time.  0207 407 6744.  admin@theplayshelter.co.uk www.theplayshelter.co.uk The Rainbow Club (various) Specialise in preparing for 3+, 4+ and 5+ entrance exams. 07850 045 471  Sonya.Thiru@gmail.com Raviv Practice London (UB5) Catch up reading course for children on the SEN register. Reading courses are flexible with home based learning (via computer) monitored daily.  Usha Patel on 07766 837 616  info@ravivpracticelondon.co.uk (registered therapist) Susan Daughtrey Education (SDE) SW Herts and Harrow courses are based on more than 25 years experience preparing students for 11+ tests. All courses have been personally written by Susan Daughtrey M.Ed, author of the market leading verbal reasoning Technique and Practice series. Every year since 1987, over 90% of the students on the courses have achieved success SW HERTS 020 7683 0734  www.sdeuk.org/swherts; HARROW  020 3 198 7772  www.sde11plus. com/courses; Type IT! - Touch Typing Lessons for Children (HA2) Learn to touch type!

Weekly lessons and intensive holiday courses for children from age 8-18. Highly recommended for children with dyslexia. Classes are held at their office in Harrow on the Hill, HA2 0JT. Free trials available. Adult classes also available.  020 8434 7111.  www.typeitforkids.co.uk. wendy@typeitforkids.co.uk.

Families North West London 13

27/09/2017 00:39

What’s On Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

What’s On in Children’s Theatre

We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check before setting out.

The Alban Arena Civic Centre, St Albans 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk Mon 23 Oct - Milkshake! Live ‘The Magic Story Book’ Starring Milkshake! favourites Bob the Builder, Little Princess, Noddy, Fireman Sam, Shimmer & Shine, Pip from Pip Ahoy!, Winnie and Wilbur, Wissper, Milkshake’s very own Milkshake!

Monkey and two Milkshake! presenters, this all singing, all dancing, musical masterpiece, will take audiences on a journey through the world’s favourite fairy tales. The Milkshake! cast will be singing songs and sharing stories that audience members, young and old, will know and love.

Artsdepot 5 Nether Street, North Finchley, N12 020 8369 5454 www.artsdepot.co.uk Mon 23 - Fri 27 Oct - Ready Steady Go! Come into our driving school – grab your tool kit, choose your car, colour and drive! Ready Steady Go is an immersive theatre show for 3 – 9 year olds and their families, that allows the audience to create, decorate and drive cardboard cars. You can colour your own cut-out car, and once wearing your newly painted car, accelerate through a story involving a bubbly car wash and road works, a hazardous snowy road, plus learning to stop at the zebra crossing.

Learn road safety and then drive your unique car home in this show that brings together family, colouring, cardboard cars, music and a heap of laughter.

Tue 24 - Sun 29 Oct - The Gruffalo Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in Tall Stories’ magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

Searching for hazelnuts, Mouse meets the cunning Fox, the eccentric old Owl and the party mad Snake. Will the story of the terrifying Gruffalo save Mouse from ending up as dinner for these hungry woodland creatures? After all, there’s no such thing as a Gruffalo – is there?

Songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 3 and up and their grown-ups, in the muchloved show that’s toured Britain and the world!

Ages 5+

Chickenshed Chase Side Southgate N14.

020 8292 9222 www.chickenshed.org.u Until Sat 28 Oct - Tales from the Shed Tales from the Shed are vibrant, interactive theatre shows that are perfect for young children. They are informal, lively and amazingly engaging as the performers and audience share the same space - children are always encouraged to make a lot of noise and to make the story happen. Every week will be different stories featuring the same much loved characters – from Can-Can the beautiful bird to laid back Lion Down and The Thing That Goes Blurgh! Shows on Fridays, Saturdays and Tue 24, Wed 25, Thu 26 & Fri 27 Oct. Ages 0-6yrs

Compass Theatre Glebe Avenue, Ickenham UB10 01895 673 0200 www.hillingdontheatres.uk Thu 26 – Sat 28 Oct - Honk! Jnr Encore Junior Theatre’s latest production is the witty, charming, and deeply moving Honk! JR, based on the famous story of The Ugly Duckling.

Ugly looks quite a bit different from his duckling brothers and sisters. The other animals on the farm are quick to notice and point this out, despite his mother’s protective flapping. Feeling rather ‘foul’ about himself, the little fowl finds himself on an adventure of self-discovery, all the while unknowingly outwitting a very hungry Cat. Adapted from the full length show, Honk! is funny and heart-warming musical for all ages

Harrow Arts Centre Hatch End HA5 0208 416 8989 www.harrowarts.com Sun 8 Oct - Carnival of the Animals The much loved music by French composer Camille Saint-Saëns combines with the visual magic of hand shadows to create a spellbinding experience. Goole, Finger and Thumb Theatre’s brand new performance is a riot of hand shadow animals dancing, cavorting and bumping into one another accompanied by live music. Here the audience will encounter lions (but not tigers and bears!), fish, kangaroos, elephants, donkeys, a whole flock of birds and even a wild pianist!

Fri 27 Oct - Don’t Dribble on the Dragon Tom is a toddler with a big, older brother, a secret dragon… and a dribbling problem that just won’t stop! When Tom’s endless drooling threatens to tear the brothers’ friendship apart can his dragon’s crazy magic help them put it back together again or will it only end up making things worse? With magic designed by the legendary Paul Daniels, this spectacular musical adventure about growing up and the importance of family is the perfect feel good show for big hearted adults and loving little ones alike.

The Radlett Centre 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk Thu 19 – Fri 20 Oct - The Tiger Who Came To Tea The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger! Following a smash-hit West End season, the tea-guzzling tiger is back on the road in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! A stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem...,expect to be surprised! Ages 3+ Thu 26 – Fri 27 Oct - Lost and Found Set sail on a wonderful adventure in this magical, musical show based on the bestselling picture book by award-winning children’s author, Oliver Jeffers. This simple story of true friendship comes to life with puppetry, songs and music.

day Brian changes and the library goes…quiet.

What’s going on? The books had better stiffen their spines: to get to the bottom of this mystery they may have to check themselves out… A musical show using song, puppetry and dynamic performance.

Unicorn Theatre 147 Tooley Street, SE1.

020 7645 0560 www.unicorntheatre.com Sat 1 Oct – Sun 5 Nov - Beowulf Beowulf is the longest surviving epic poem in Old English. Writer Chris Thorpe shines a new perspective on the seminal text, drawing out connections between the ancient and the modern worlds in this tale of heroism, fear, bravery and anguish in the battle of life. An exciting, adventurous and atmospheric new interpretation performed with live music.

Watersmeet High St, Rickmansworth WD3 01923 711 063 www.watersmeet.co.uk Fri 20 Oct - Vienna Festival Ballet presents: The Sleeping Beauty A classic fairytale set to Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score, stunning choreography, beautiful costumes all combine to portray the struggle between good and evil. The wicked Carbosse casts a spell on Princess Aurora proclaiming that she will one day prick her finger – and die. The Lilac Fairy changes the spell, instead the Princess and the entire Palace fall into a deep sleep.

A century later Prince Florimund revives the Princess with a kiss.

Watford Palace Theatre Clarendon Road, Watford WD17 01923 225 671 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk Fri 27 – Sun 29 Oct - Treasure Island When a notorious pirate arrives at the Admiral Benbow Inn, young Jim Hawkins’ life is changed forever. The discovery of an old treasure map takes him on a dark and thrilling adventure beyond his wildest imagination.

Aboard the Hispaniola, it seems that everyone on the ship wants that map, and with pirates hiding among her crew, the race to the treasure is on. A talented company of young performers drawn from across Hertfordshire bring Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic swashbuckling adventure to life in this brand new stage adaptation. Ages 7+

Winston Churchill Theatre Pinn Way Ruislip HA4 01895 250615 www.hillingdontheatres.uk Wed 11 – Sat 14 Oct - The Wizard of Oz Go Over The Rainbow with KLOS Musical Theatre as they perform the classic musical, The Wizard of Oz. Dorothy Gale is blown from Kansas to the Land of Oz, where she meets the Scarecrow, Tin Man, Cowardly Lion and more colourful characters. She defies the power of the Wicked Witch to reach the Emerald City and ask the Wizard to send her home. The score includes unforgettable songs; If I Only Had a Brain, We’re Off to See the Wizard, Ding-Dong! the Witch is Dead and, of course, Over the Rainbow.

Trestle Theatre Russet Drive, St Albans, AL4 01727 850950 www.trestle.org.uk Fri 13 Oct - Book Story Book Story. It’s a story, about some books. In a library. But these are no ordinary books and this is no ordinary library. It’s Brian’s library: a wonderful, magical place where all the books are happy. Then one

14 Families North West London

FNWMag117.indd 14

MORE

ONLINE familiesonline.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

27/09/2017 00:16

What’s On October Half Term Camps Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford ( 0208 123 9346 8 jodiesloan@littlekickers.co.uk or Harrow (HA3) Bushey and North Wembley (0208 422 0676 8 niro@ littlekickers.co.uk www.littlekickers.co.uk Luchi and Ota (HA8) Sewing & Crafts Workshops For Kids From 5+.

Classes run from 23rd - 27th October in Edgware. 0208 958 7714 www.luchiandota.com

Artzania Art and Craft Activity Club (HA) A new and exciting Arts and Crafts activity club for children ages 1-11 yrs open during term time and holidays. Our October club offers Mother Toddler Group art club (aged 1-4 yrs) and an After-school/ Holiday Club (ages 5-11yrs).

Contact to book your place: Keshma 07419343105 Keshma.artzania@gmail.com Aspire Kidzone Camp (HA7) During our October half-term camp we will be offering a range of exciting activities in our programme this will include sports, games, Arts & crafts, Horse-riding & swimming. Bookings open on Monday 25th September 2017. Daily Bookings £31.50, Further discounts for registered disabled. Contact Abby Bennett, Kidzzone Camp Coordinator - T 020 8420 6725 www.aspireleisurecentre.org.uk

MCC Cricket Academy (NW8) Cricket sessions for all ages at Lords Cricket Ground. Little Legends sessions for an introduction to cricket for under 4’s; Mini Masters for ages 4-5 yrs; Cricket Cubs for ages 5-7 to learn the basic cricketing skills; full day sessions for Future Stars ages 7-9 yrs; Academy All-Rounders for ages 9-11 yrs and MCC Cricket Academy Colts for 11-16 yrs. 020 7616 8612 cricketacademy@mcc. org.uk www.lords.org Perform: Drama, Dance and Singing Half-Term Course - Wizard of Oz (HA5) On these one and three day dance, drama and singing courses, the children will enter a world of musical fantasy as they re-enact the much-loved story of the Wizard of Oz. For ages 4-7 years on Monday 23rd October, 10am - 3pm at St Luke’s Parish Hall, Love Lane, Pinner, Middlesex, HA5 3EX. T: 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk/holidays Super Camps (various) Multi-Activity camp for ages 4-12. Super Camps’ fabulous Multi-Activity programme for ages 4-12 years allows the camp to come together and get involved in some great activities.

As well as taking part in the fun-packed programme, children are cared for by fully qualified and enthusiastic staff to give the kids a great experience on camp. From 23-27 October. www.supercamps.co.uk

MORE

ONLINE

Camp Phoenix (NW9) Provides a great escape into the familiesonline.co.uk outdoors with a range of fantastic water sports; you and your friends will have the chance to try out some really cool activities. Choose from full day Explore Paddling or Sailing Improvers sessions or 2/3 day activity courses.

You can do as much or as little as you choose or build a few courses and sessions into a full week. The holiday “day camps” are run by an experienced team of British Canoeing coaches and RYA Instructors at our base on the Welsh Harp reservoir. www.phoenixcanoeclub.co.uk

Type IT! Touch Typing Courses (HA2) October Intensive course for children aged 10+. Adults welcome too! 10am - 12pm, Monday 23rd October - Friday 27th October.

Cost: £200.00. Book online or give us a call. At The Old Office, 24 Roxeth Hill, Harrow on the Hill, HA2 0JT. www. typeitforkids.co.uk. Email: wendy@typeitforkids.co.uk Tel: 020 8434 7111 (Extn 1).

Danny Grant Soccer School (NW3) Offers action-packed holiday courses for children aged 3 to 12 during the holidays. Our October Half-Term Holiday Football Camps will take place 16th – 20th October and 23rd – 27th October at South Hampstead High School.

020 8446 0891 www.dgsoccer.co.uk Dramarama (NW3) Non-stop drama fun for ages 3-15 years at South Hampstead High School. Courses include Dramatots for 3-4 yrs; Stage 1 for 4-6 yrs; Musical Theatre for 7-11 yrs; Street Dance/Hip Hop for 7-11 yrs and Youth Theatre Group for 11-15 yrs. Week One: 16th – 20th October; Week Two: 23rd – 27th October. info@dramarama.co.uk 020 8446 0891 www.dramarama.co.uk Enjoy-a-Ball (Various) October Camp running over half term, on 24th, 25th and 26th October. Sports coaching for 3-9 yr olds in a fun, positive and non-competitive environment. Ten ball sports for the perfect introduction to sport. We also have Enjoy-a-ball 3-9 year olds and Physi-ball classes - Ball skills and core skills for toddlers aged 18mths to 3 yrs. Classes run in Mill HIll, Finchley, Golders Green and Muswell Hill. 0333 334 0845 or 07763746886 www.enjoy-a-ball.com northlondon@enjoy-a-ball.com Explore Learning (various) Maths and English tuition over October half term, as well as Entrance Exam Prep, Succeed in Secondary and Creative Writing. Centres in Watford, Harrow, Ruislip, Queensbury and Wembley. Check out their FREE trial offer! www.explorelearning.co.uk JK Educate (NW11) 11+ mock exam on Sunday 15th October at Brooklands Junior School. 9.00am to 12.45pm. To book a place, email info@jkeducate.co.uk or call 020 3488 0754. 11+ workshop day on Monday 23rd October (maths session in the morning and English in the afternoon). To book a place, email info@jkeducate.co.uk or call 020 3488 0754.

Little Kickers (Various) Classes continue over October half term!

Enabling children aged 18mths up to their 7th birthday to develop their coordination, balance and agility through football activity classes Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet ( 020 8201 1084 8 jlevene@littlekickers.co.uk.

familiesonline.co.uk

FNWMag117.indd 15

www.activetime.co.uk Families North West London 15

27/09/2017 00:25

What’s On

What’s On

listings for all the family Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

To promote your local event, coffee morning, nearly new sale, parenting courses or community group in the next What’s On listing (Nov/Dec 2017) send your entry by 23 Nov 2017 Email Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk. Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check details of the events before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.

www.FamiliesOnline for all our local weekly regular events. It’s updated every day!

Halloween at Paultons Park

October Tue 26 Sep – Tue 21 Nov - Effective Parenting Course (HA1) For every parent with a child aged 3-12 years. This 8 week course is aimed at helping parents and carers learn practical communication skills and positive discipline strategies for everyday life, to develop their abilities to raise confident, happy and co-operative children.

Topics include: Building self-esteem for children and parents, understanding children’s behaviour, listening skills, effective communication, positive discipline, dealing with feelings and setting limits.

At Hope Harrow, 64 Pinner Road. www.hopeharrow.org.uk Thu 28 Sep – Thu 26 Oct - Money Matters (HA1) This 5 week programme aims to make the issue around money, engaging and fun. It’s not always easy to find the time and space to make the subject of money, and its challenges, part of family life and the children’s understanding.

Topics include: Spending habits and household finances: Ways to start and maintain accurate paperwork: Budget planning and using a spending diary: Understanding need versus want: Savings: Effectively communicating with children and the confidence to say ‘No’ without feeling guilty. At Hope Harrow, 64 Pinner Road. www.hopeharrow.org.uk Sun 1 Oct - Animated Romans (EC2Y) Explore Roman London in a very modern way at this free digital animation workshop at the Museum of London. Gladiators, imposing armies, luxurious baths and straight roads… what comes to mind when you think of the Romans? Discover what daily life was like in the city 2000 years ago at

this interactive animation workshop in the Roman London gallery. This is a drop-in workshop, so stop by anytime between 12.30-1.30pm, 2-3pm, 3.304.30pm. Minimum age 7+. www.museumoflondon.org.uk

happenings and interact with Linda’s complex and delicate sculptures. Go along to the Reading Room over the weekend between 11am to 4pm and add your own creations to the growing installation. www.brent.gov.uk

things like Drama, Bollywood Dancing, Music and much more. Everyone is welcome, so go along and try something new. Email culturebite@hillingdon. gov.uk to book. www.hillingdon.gov.uk

Fri 6 Oct - Jail & Bail in aid of Michael Sobell Hospice (WD3) Join ‘Jail & Bail’, a once-in-a-lifetime experience, in partnership with Ruislip Police Station and get locked up to help raise vital funds for the Hospice in its 40th year during Hospice Care Week. Upstanding members of the community will be: arrested & handcuffed, taken away in a police van, finger printed, DNA tested and locked in a police cell. The only way to be let out of jail is to raise £500 in sponsorship money for the charity.

020 3826 2362 ochambershenry@ michaelsobellhospice.co.uk www. michaelsobellhospice.co.uk

Sat 7 Oct - Lots for Tots Sale Rickmansworth (WD3) An indoor table top sale for people that want to sell their second hand baby, toddler and children’s items, and those that want to buy them. Visitors can browse each sellers table and pick out exactly what they need, paying the seller direct. The sale takes place at Rickmansworth School from 10-11.30am. www.lotsfortotssale.co.uk

Sat 7 Oct - Fun Palaces at artsdepot (N12) The annual, free, worldwide celebration of arts, science and culture returns for its fourth year. artsdepot will join 150+ Fun Palaces expected to pop up across the UK and globally in arts centres, swimming pools, theatres, universities, back gardens, castles, libraries, woodlands and more - and you’re invited. 11am-3pm. www.artsdepot.co.uk

Sat 7 Oct – Northwood Craft Market (HA6) There will be many beautiful crafts for sale, all handmade by local craftspeople, as well as hands-on crafts for children, a plant Stall, teas, coffees and delicious homemade cakes.

At the Methodist Church Hall in Northwood from 10am-2pm. www.northwoodcraftmarket.co.uk

Sat 7 Oct - Fun Palaces: The National Maritime Museum Submerged (SE10) The National Maritime Museum is hosting its first ever Fun Palaces event, featuring workshops, performance activities and creative sessions for the whole community, where anyone can be an artist or scientist. The theme of the day is ‘Submerged’ where visitors will plunge in to adventure when they find that the museum has mysteriously disappeared under the water. www.rmg.co.uk

Fri 6 – Sun 8 Oct – Hillingdon Literary Festival (UB8) In its 3rd year, the festival is a free weekend of author sessions, debates, masterclasses, signings and festival fun taking place at Brunel University. HiLF is open and accessible to everyone in the wider community, with a mission of championing the current literary environment and celebrating the diverse voices of our brilliant Borough. www.hillingdonliteraryfestival.com Sat 7 Oct - ActionSpace Fun Palace Weekend (NW10) Help ActionSpace transform the Reading Room at Willesden Green Library into a Fun Palace, inspired by the art making of Pardip Kapil and Linda Bell. Become immersed in Pardip’s surreal and unpredictable world of art

Sat 7 Oct - Chorleywood Community Orchard: Apple Day (WD3) The 9th Apple Day will take place in the Community Orchard, at Chorleywood House Estate from 11am to 3pm. Entry is free and there will be attractions and activities for everyone. Children can help press apples into juice while adults can enjoy the Cider Club’s 2016 vintage. There will also be a range of apple-based crafts for the children. www.threerivers.gov.uk Sat 7 Oct - Fun Palace (UB8) There will be a variety of workshops and activities to learn new skills at Uxbridge Library - all for free! Including

Sat 7 – Mon 30 Oct – Halloween at Paultons Park (SO51) Have a fang-tastic day at Paultons Park this Halloween, with more than 1,500 pumpkins placed around the park, frightfully fun activities, classic Halloween characters including mischievous skeletons and pumpkins, and a giant witches’ cauldron for little monsters to climb into and have their picture taken. Find The Little Monsters Ball at

16 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On Sat 14 Oct - Rickmansworth Society Annual Fair (WD3) A large number of local groups and societies will be present at Watersmeet Theatre, with an array of interesting tables with items for sale and lots of local information. Go along and pick up a bargain or choose from a selection of Christmas gifts.This market helps raise much needed funds for many wonderful charities and local support is always welcome. Refreshments will be available. 10am-1pm. www.watersmeet.co.uk Sat 14 Oct - Dog Day Afternoon (W1U) Pitter patter down to the Cabbages and Frocks market in Marylebone village for another special Dog Day Afternoon. One of the highlights of the day will be the Good Boy Dog School headed

by Dima and his doggy dance partners George and Teddy, who will be presenting new and exciting routines at 12 noon and 2pm. Previously Dima and George have been seen on Britain’s Got talent.

George, who is a wow with the ladies, upstaged lady Gaga on Comic relief. A winning duo, not to be missed! Free Admission. www.cabbagesandfrocks.co.uk Sat 14 Oct - Diwali Celebration (SE10) Visit the National Maritime Museum with the whole family for this event in the lead up to Diwali. Enjoy a day of music, art and performance in celebration of this annual festival of lights observed around the world. www.rmg.co.uk

Dog Day Afternoon

the Show Stage, and don’t forget to dress in your creepiest costumes and participate in the Freaky Fancy Dress Competition. www.paultonspark.co.uk .

Sun 8 Oct - Michael Sobell Hospice 40th Anniversary Walk (WD3) Walk and help raise vital funds for the hospice during Hospice Care Week and in its very special 40th Anniversary year. Join in a 3 or 12 mile walk which will take you through the beautiful countryside around Moor Park, Harefield, Rickmansworth and The Grand Union Canal. Dogs and children welcome too! Registration at 8.15am Walk starts at 9am, starts and ends at Michael Sobell Hospice. www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk Sun 8 Oct - Celebrate Black History Month: Jazz celebration featuring Courtney Pine (WD17) Courtney Pine CBE headlines this special jazz themed evening at Watford Palace Theatre, celebrating the 100th birthday of Ella Fitzgerald and 30 years of Black History Month. The evening also features Melissa James, who returns to Watford Palace Theatre to open the evening. Authentic Caribbean snacks will be sold during the event by local caterer Patwarls. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk Sun 8 Oct – Diwali Celebration Day (HA5) A fun variety of Diwali activities for the whole family, including arts, crafts, story-telling and much more. At the Heath Robinson Museum from 11am-1pm. Booking essential. www.heathrobinsonmuseum.org

Tue 10 Oct - Black Tudors in the Queen’s House (SE10) As part of Black History Month, uncover the hidden histories of African people who lived in Tudor England. From Henry VIII’s salvage diver to Anne of Denmark’s groom, discover the untold stories of African people who lived in Tudor and early Stuart England. Dr Miranda Kaufmann shares tales from her new book, Black Tudors: The Untold Story, in the Queen’s House. www.rmg.co.uk Wed 11 – Sat 28 Oct – Dance Umbrella (various) The programme of this year’s International Contemporary Dance Festival is jam-packed with world-leading choreographers and dancers and opens with Origami at Battersea Power Station. The London skyline will be dramatically altered as gravity-defying Japanese dancer and circus aerialist, Satchie Noro performs on a moving, 40ft shipping container in front of the iconic building. Families will be able to enjoy this spectacular, free, outdoor performance in several other locations along the banks of the River Thames and Croydon. www.danceumbrella.co.uk Fri 13 Oct - Ruislip Manor Library: 10th birthday! (HA4) A day of fun and frivolity celebrating the new Ruislip Manor Library that was built 10 years ago! 2.30-4.30pm. www.hillingdon.gov.uk

Sat 14 – Sun 15 Oct - Experience a traditional Harvest Festival (HP8) Discover the fascinating traditions of farming history at Chiltern Open Air museum. This popular annual harvest event provides a unique opportunity to explore the sights, sounds and smells of harvest past, with the Museum’s restored 1947 threshing machine working hard to process the year’s rye crop – as long as the rain holds off! You can also take part in some family friendly Harvest themed craft activities. www.coam.org.uk Sun 15 Oct - The Ravest Show on Earth! (E14) The Museum of London Docklands and Big Fish Little Fish have teamed up again to bring you another award winning family rave this Autumn! Party animals big and small will be able to enjoy the circus themed family-friendly rave. Get involved with the multi-sensory dancefloor delights, live DJ, glitter cannons, giant balloons, bubble machines and famous parachute dance. www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-londondocklands Mon 30 Oct, Mon 6 & 13 Nov Living with a Teenager workshops (HA1) These workshops for every parent with a teenager or adolescent aged 12 years +. It can be exciting and satisfying helping our young people grow up to be capable independent young adults!

During these workshops you will learn how to navigate some of the bigger challenges parents of teens face. Topics include: Understanding the needs and behaviours of pre-teens and teenagers;

Negotiating and setting limits; Finding different ways to communicate effectively; Peer pressure, self-image and self-esteem. At Hope Harrow, 64 Pinner Road. www.hopeharrow.org.uk Tue 31 Oct - Halloween Musical Spectacular (WD3) The Three Rivers District Council Chairman’s Variety Performance in aid of the Rickmansworth Sea Scouts and Mill End Community Centre. Featuring songs from Sweeney Todd, Phantom of the Opera, Wicked, Rocky Horror Picture Show performed by West Herts College Performing Arts and Leavesden Community Players. The show takes place at Watersmeet Theatre. www.watersmeet.co.uk Tue 31 Oct - Halloween for the family at Mill Green Museum (AL9) Dress up your little spooks and take them along to enjoy a spooky family fun packed ‘softly scary’ Halloween event. Includes spooky stories, spooky trail, make your own potions, bob for apples, bite a biscuit and guess what’s in the Gruesome Sacks!

The event will end with a musical family costume parade (parents included). welhat.gov.uk/Mill

Half Term Sat 21 – Sat 28 Oct - Halloween Half-Term (N3) Visit the Spooky Basement at Stephens House, and venture outside for the ‘Ghosts in the Trees’ garden ghost hunt with a prize for all completed ghost hunts! 1-4pm daily. www.stephenshouseandgardens.com Fri 20 Oct - Hang about! Free Events for Teens (WD18) Games and

good times for 12-17 year olds are here at intu Watford. Go along to chill out, challenge your mates and take home top prizes on the first day of every school holiday. October sees the ‘Playstation Challenge’, from 12-5pm. The winners from the event will win a £25 intu Gift Card. Don’t miss out! www.intu.co.uk/watford

MORE

ONLINE familiesonline.co.uk

continued on page 18 v

The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance • Ballet classes for boys & girls aged 3-18 • Outstanding Royal Academy of Dance examinations results • Established 14 years in Stanmore •

• •

Successful places at Royal Ballet School, Tring Park, Central School of Ballet, London Senior/Junior Ballet, London Studio Centre, Ballet West Numerous cups/medallists – British Federation of Festivals Contemporary/Jazz classes

Classes are held in the Stanmore and and Bushey Area Suzanne Van Niekerk (RAD Qualified Teacher)

T: 020 8950 2457 www.vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk “Develop poise, technique and expression through dance”

familiesonline.co.uk

Families North West London 17

What’s On Wed 25 Oct - Half Term Film ‘The Lego Batman Movie’ and Pre-Film Workshop: Lego Batman Masks (HA5) We love being superheroes! At the end of this craft workshop at Harrow Arts Centre, each child will leave with their own Batman mask to wear during the film! Workshop begins at 10am, followed by a showing of The Lego Batman Movie at 11am. www.harrowarts.com Wed 25 Oct - Halloween Fun Fest (WD18) Herts Inclusive Theatre invite you to an unmissable , unforgettable morning of spooky fun for all ages at their Halloween Fun Fest, from 10.00am ‘til 12noon at the Holywell Community Centre. This free, fun event for the whole family includes arts & crafts, storytelling, tombola & face painting. Homemade cakes & refreshments will be available to purchase. www.hit-theatre.org.uk

Night Owl Sleepover © Museum of London

v continued from page 17 Sat 21 – Sun 29 Oct - Paddington’s Half Term (EC2Y) Expect daily activities at the Museum of London inspired by London’s favourite bear and his upcoming film, Paddington 2. Keep an eye on the website to find out about special guests, exclusive competitions and highlight events. To coincide with the release of Paddington 2, you can also visit a small display celebrating the well-mannered bear and including original costumes and props from the new film. In partnership with STUDIOCANAL. www.museumoflondon.org.uk Sat 21 – Sun 29 Oct - Camouflage Half Term (SW3) Get back to nature over half term at this camouflage family activity at the National Army Museum. Be inspired by the natural world and create a camouflage scene.

You can explore different environments and how camouflage can change for each one. Drop in for free from 10.30am to 4.30pm daily. www.nam.ac.uk Mon 23 Oct - The Big Draw (N12) artsdepot’s bumper day of drawing and creativity returns, jam-packed with activities for all ages.

Taking over artsdepot for one day only there will be lots of enjoyable drawing related activities for all ages all based around bringing drawing to life! www.artsdepot.co.uk Mon 23 Oct - Nick Sharratt’s Big Draw Along (N12) Join acclaimed children’s writer and illustrator Nick Sharratt to find out how he creates his picture books. He’ll show you how to create a character like Tracy Beaker and share some of his very best drawing tips. Take pencils, paper and something to lean on and expect plenty of chances to join in! www.artsdepot.co.uk Mon 23 – Fri 27 Oct - Air Fix Make and Take October Half Term (NW9) Go along to the RAF Museum London during Half Term for their Airfix Make and Take.

There will be a number of different models available suitable for seasoned model makers, or those new to Airfix. www.rafmuseum.org.uk

Tue 24 Oct - Half Term Film ‘Sing’ and Pre-Film Workshop: Sing Singsong! (HA5) A fun and friendly singing workshop at Harrow Arts Centre at 10am, where you’ll be taught some of the tunes from the film so you can sing along! The showing of ‘Sing’ will follow at 11am - Dapper Koala Buster Moon presides over a once-grand theatre that has fallen on hard times. He takes one final chance to restore it to its former glory by producing the world’s greatest singing competition featuring a mouse, a timid elephant, a pig, a gorilla and a punk-rock porcupine… www.harrowarts.com Tue 24 Oct - Family Sewing Class (NW10) Have a go at sewing inspired by African designs and traditions at Harlesden Library Plus.

Part of the Black History Month celebration. Free but space limited so please book in advance. www.brent.gov.uk Tue 24 & Wed 25 Oct - Origami Workshop (UB4/HA4) Family event for all ages! Taking place at Hayes End Library on Tue 24 Oct and South Ruislip Library on Wed 25 Oct, both 2-3pm. Email culturebite@hillingdon.gov. uk to book. www.hillingdon.gov.uk Tue 24 – Wed 25 Oct - Autumn Quest & Craft: The Big Draw (NW3) A creative workshop to bring Kenwood House’s world famous paintings to life. Families will get to work together to try out different art and crafts whilst exploring the house and finding out more about its collections. Sessions will take place in the house. Just turn up between 12-4pm to take part. www.english-heritage.org.uk Wed 25 Oct - Filmsmeet Family Film: The Nut Job 2: Nutty by Nature (WD3) Following the events of the first film, Surly and his friends must stop Oakton City’s mayor from destroying their home to make way for a dysfunctional amusement park. Showing at Watersmeet Theatre at 11am, 2pm & 5pm. www.watersmeet.co.uk

Wed 25 Oct - Bollywood Dancing (HA4) Go and Dance with Jay Kumar, London’s Top Bollywood Dance Entertainer, at Ruisip Manor Library from 3-5pm. There will also be some colourful and dynamic bollywood performances by DanceAsia who have recently appeared on BBC’s Don’t Tell The Bride and Channel 5’s Saturday Show Live and have led the Hayes Carnival Parade the last two years. Join in with Jay Kumar’s inclusive Bollywood dance routines to lively Bollywood hit songs, suitable for all ages and abilities. Free email culturebite@hillingdon.gov.uk to book. www.hillingdon.gov.uk Wed 25 Oct - Michael Sobell Hospice Halloween Quiz Night (WD3) Go along and help raise vital funds for Michael Sobell Hospice at their Halloween Quiz Night - spooky fun for all the family! Takes place at Michael Sobell Centre Lecture Hall at 7.30pm. www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk Thu 26 Oct - Filmsmeet Family Film: The Emoji Movie (WD3) Gene, a multi-expressional emoji, sets out on a journey to become a normal emoji. At Watersmeet Theatre at 11am, 2pm & 5pm. www.watersmeet.co.uk Thu 26 – Sat 28 Oct Museum Late: Quarantine (SE10) One for the grown ups - the National Maritime Museum opens its doors after hours for this interactive horror event for Halloween. A devastating virus, dredged up from the depths of the ocean has infected the Museum’s research staff with terrifying consequences. Participants will be tasked with following the clues to find the antidote to this mysterious maritime illness, encountering creepy characters and unusual objects along the way. Will you be able to keep your team safe and solve the mystery before it’s too late? www.rmg.co.uk Fri 27 Oct - Robotics: Construct and Program Working Machines!

(NW9) During this fun and engaging workshop at Kingsbury Library, children will learn how to build and program robots from scratch! For children aged 8 – 11. Free but space limited so please book in advance. www.brent.gov.uk Fri 27 Oct - Halloween Spectacular at Chiltern Open Air Museum (HP8) Take the family for an unforgettable, unmissable evening of spooky fun for all ages in the unique and atmospheric setting

of the Museum’s historic buildings and woods. This year the event will be part of Culture 24’s Museums at Night. Pre-booking is essential for this extremely popular event. www.coam.org.uk Fri 27 Oct - Night Owls Halloween Sleepover (EC2Y) What happens in the Museum of London once the doors close for the night? Trickor-treat your way around the galleries, solve a spooky crime by torchlight with the help of a mysterious character and help tell some ghostly tales from Victorian London. Bed down in the museum galleries, before a bright and early light breakfast and a family friendly film in the morning. Suggested ages: 7-11. www.museumoflondon.org.uk Fri 27 Oct - Lost in the ice!

Halloween Party (SE10) Go along for a spooky journey through the icy depths of the National Maritime Museum at the annual family Halloween party. Investigate a haunted ship and meet ghostly explorers who have come back to life to join in the fun. www.rmg.co.uk Sat 28 Oct - Draw Your Own Cartoon! (HA5) Join cartoonist Steve Marchant from the Cartoon Museum for a special family workshop at Harrow Arts Centre. Learn how to design your own cartoon character and create a fantastic comic strip story! Steve will finish by doing a quick cartoon portrait of all participants! www.harrowarts.com Sat 28 Oct - Nutcracker Family Dance Workshop (UB8) Get in the festive spirit and take part in a creative family ballet workshop inspired by the Christmas classic, Nutcracker. Learn extracts with English National Ballet dance artists, explore Tchaikovsky’s magical score, and experience the thrill of dancing to live music. No previous experience necessary. Suitable for children aged between 5 & 10 years with an accompanying adult who will participate in the workshop. At Uxbridge Library from 1-2.15pm.

Email culturebite@hillingdon.gov.uk to book. www.hillingdon.gov.uk Sat 28 Oct - Northwood Community Arts: Open House at St John’s (HA6) A day of activity, displays and talks addressing the Big Questions in life at St John’s United Reformed Church from 10am-4pm. A showcase event to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the reformed tradition and what it means for us in a multi-cultural and multi-faith Northwood. www.hillingdon.gov.uk Sat 28 Oct - Botwell Cultural Day (UB3) Celebrating arts and culture with African mask making, Storytelling, Bollywood Dancing and more at Botwell Green Library. www.hillingdon.gov.uk Sat 28 – Sun 29 Oct Halloween at the London Canal Museum (N1) The Halloween trip is a unique trip through Islington Tunnel at Halloween on board one of London’s community narrowboats specially decorated for the occasion with a friendly witch amongst the crew. Be prepared for some surprise sights in the darkness of the 198 year old tunnel! There will also be special activities for children in the museum, including Ghost Stories, Face Painting and a Spooky Treasure Hunt. www.canalmuseum.org.uk

18 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On Sat 28 – Sun 29 Oct - Dance Around The World Festival (NW1) A 2-day inter-cultural, inter-generational dance festival at Cecil Sharp House. From 10am to 7pm, over 50 of London’s diverse cultural groups will offer performances and workshops, some with live music. It promises to be a vibrant, fun-filled family event, buzzing with different languages, and people going by in different costumes. www.cecilsharphouse.org Sun 29 Oct - Flying Witches (WD3) Join Home-Start Watford for Halloween Fun for all ages at Rickmansworth Aquadrome. The day will start with a children’s sponsored walk, scoot, cycle or fly ( it’s up to you) completing 1.5k or 3k around Bury lake and then lots of spooky crafts and fun. Prizes for the best costumes and lots of surprises along the way www.flyingwitches.eventbrite.co.uk Sun 29 Oct - Halloween Spooktacular (N3) Go along to Stephens House and Gardens for an evening of Halloween fun, including a spine-tingling spooky basement tour, creepy garden ghost hunt, fiendish facepainting, ghoulish games, cunning crafts, terrifying tattoos and more. Booking essential, limited availability. www.stephenshouseandgardens.com Tue 31 Oct - Little Shed of Horrors! (N14) Presented by Chickenshed and Talkies Community Cinema, expect live spooky music from the Chickenshed Youth Band and terrifying Halloween surprises, followed by a

familiesonline.co.uk

screening of Little Shop of Horrors. Fancy dress is highly encouraged! www.chickenshed.org.uk

November

L Fri 3 Nov - Abbots Langley

Fireworks Display (WD5) Abbots Langley Fireworks Display will take place on Friday 3rd November at the Manor House Playing Fields. The event is organised by the Lions Club of Watford and supported by Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden and Abbots Langley Parish Council. www.abbotslangley-pc.gov.uk

L

Fri 3 – Sat 4 Nov – Alexandra Palace Fireworks Festival (N22) Alexandra Palace’s Fireworks Festival will feature the Park’s legendary firework, set against the sparkling panoramic view of London. The festival boasts the largest selection of entertainment, food and drink vendors ever seen in Alexandra Park. www.alexandrapalace.com

L

Sat 4 Nov – Cassiobury Fireworks (WD18) Go along to Cassiobury Park in Watford for a fabulous night of fireworks and fun. On stage entertainment will start at 6pm, with live performances from Katie plus Juan and their band at 6.30pm and again at 7.05pm. The huge bonfire will be lit at 7pm, with a 20 minute firework display starting at 7.30pm. As always there will be a variety of food and drink outlets, kiddies funfair rides and bungee trampolines. www.watfordbigevents.co.uk

L

Sat 4 Nov – Victoria Park Fireworks Display (E3) The event is free,

and as well as the main display at 7pm, there will also be local fresh food and drink stalls selling traditional mulled wine. www.towerhamlets.gov.uk

L

Sat 4 Nov - Harrow Fireworks Extravaganza 2017 (HA1) The annual fireworks night at Harrow Cricket Club is open to all, with tickets available in advance as well as on the night. This is a professional fireworks display set up by trained pro fireworks technicians, and will have activities for children, plenty of space, hot food and the bar selling reasonable priced drinks for all. Doors open 5pm, fireworks start 7pm. www.harrowcricketclub.co.uk

L

Sat 4 Nov – Wembley Park (HA0) Join us for Wembley Park fireworks that promises to be an exciting fun family event with vibrant street entertainment from a number of performers, great street food to tickle your taste buds and an exciting fireworks display set to a top-secret soundtrack in the evening. Come early and enjoy the London Designer Outlet and street performances. www.brent.gov.uk/fireworks

L

Sat 4 Nov - Battersea Park Fireworks Display (SW11) Gates open at 5.15 pm for this spectacular annual fireworks event.

Fireworks will shoot over 200 acres of the parkland showing massive effects and bangs to celebrate this tradition. Tickets must be bought in advance, none will be available at the gate. Food and drink stalls will be available during the show. www.wandsworth.gov.uk

L

Sat 4 Nov – Harrow Fireworks 2017 (HA3) This year Harrow Fireworks Display istaking place at Byron Park.

Gates open at 12 pm, (free entry until 4pm) and the fireworks pre-show will start at approximately 7.30pm with the fireworks starting straight after! www.harrowfireworks.co.uk

L

Sat 4 Nov – Blackheath Firework Display (SE10) One of the best oldest free displays in London, offering a truly unique night. The event starts at midday with stalls, a funfair and fun for thr whole family, ending with a massive fireworks show in the evening. www.lewisham.gov.uk Fri 17 Nov – Breast Cancer Charity Gift Fair (WD23) 9.30am to 2.30pm at the Bushey Centre, Bushey Country Club The South Herts Breast Cancer Now charity - formed by a group of local mums who are driven to raise as much money for the UK’s largest breast cancer charity - is hosting the event consisting of fabulous stalls selling gifts for all ages in Fashion, Beauty, Homeware and Kids. Entrance is £5 including refreshments, and there will be an opportunity to buy tickets for some great prizes in our raffle. Find us on Facebook at South Herts Breast Cancer Now or email southhertsbcn@gmail.com

MORE

ONLINE familiesonline.co.uk

Families North West London 19