Families upon Thames Issue 101 Mar-Apr 2015

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March/April 2015 Issue 101

Everything Easter!

RECRUITING NOW

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LINDA STONE, Editor m: 07530 283330 t: 020 8241 0423 e: editor@familiesuponthames.co.uk www.familiesuponthames.co.uk Find us and like us on Facebook Facebook.com/familiesuponthames @FamiliesuponT Now more than 6000 followers!

Don’t miss our bumper Kids Party feature in the May/June issue, published on 5 May!

Contents

TO ADVERTISE IN THIS MAGAZINE CONTACT:

Page 4 Page 6 Page 8 Page 9 Page 21 Page 26 Page 30 Page 36 Page 37

Health and Wellbeing Parenting Family Food and Nutrition Education Focus Easter Days Out Easter Camps, Workshops and Courses Classes, Clubs and Activities Parties What’s On

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3

FAMILY HEALTH AND WELLBEING MENTAL HEALTH IN PREGNANCY AND THE POST-NATAL PERIOD Julia Lidderdale tells us more about available resources

Pregnancy is a test for health. If you develop high blood pressure or diabetes during pregnancy, the chances are you will develop it again later on in your life. This can be the same with mental health.

Pregnancy changes your life and your body.

Many women feel overwhelmed, and suffer from aches and pains, tiredness, morning sickness, constipation, haemorrhoids, as well as struggling with their altered body image.

All this can affect mood. Even with a happily planned pregnancy, some women develop a mood disorder or increased levels of anxiety. For some, this can be more serious than others.

Therefore, it is important that your health is optimum before you conceive. You need to be as fit as you can be and eat healthily.

If you smoke or drink, stop now! Whilst you are trying to conceive you should also take folic acid. If you suffer from any medical or psychiatric disorders, you should ask your GP to refer you to your nearest Pre-conceptual Care Clinic like the one at the West Middlesex Hospital.

Once you are pregnant, your midwife will do a routine screening including blood tests and scans and ask you questions about your mental health and your family history. Some mental illnesses are preventable, treatable and have good outcomes with the right treatment at the right time. In other words, being open about your feelings and concerns with your midwife or GP assists these practitioners in helping you to access the most appropriate care, when it is needed.

Family history is really important. If you have a mother or sister who has suffered from post natal depression or serious mental health disorders you may be at increased risk yourself.

Find out as much as you can from your family

REFLUX IN BABIES

by Dr Tobias Odenwald MD

and inform your midwife.

If your mood is low, mindfulness, meditation and online mood gyms can all be helpful. The Department of Health has improved access to psychological therapies, so if you feel as though you would benefit from counselling or the new Antenatal Anxiety Group or Post Natal Wellbeing Group run in Hounslow, you can refer yourself to your local Improving Access to Psychological (APT) Service or talk to your GP, health visitor or midwife about this.

Your mental health should be treated as seriously as your physical health. They both have an impact on each other and are of paramount importance for a positive experience.

extra

Julia Lidderdale is Senior Midwife and Perinatal Mental Health Specialist at West Middlesex Hospital and a Perinatal Mental Health Educator for Health Education North West London.

Frequent vomiting in young babies can be worrying for parents. However, around 70% of babies bring up small amounts of milk in the first three months of their life, which runs out of their mouths or noses, usually shortly after feeds.

Babies usually get reflux because the ring of muscle where their food pipes joins their stomachs hasn’t fully developed. This means that when your baby’s tummy is full, milk and acid can come back up the food pipe, causing discomfort. Both formula-fed and breastfed babies can have reflux and it can be very uncomfortable for them.

Reflux usually gets better on its own as the muscular valve at the entrance to your baby’s tummy gradually get stronger, and most babies grow out of reflux by 10 or 12 months.

Babies need to take in a lot of high calorie food to help them grow, but their food pipes and stomachs are still developing.

To help reflux, try: ✿ feeding your baby small amounts frequently to avoid overstretching his or her stomach capacity ✿ hold your baby upright for 20 to 30 minutes after feeding ✿ “wind” or burp your baby thoroughly after feeds

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FAMILY HEALTH AND WELLBEING DON’T THINK, JUST DO!

By Helen Maguire

✿ raise the head end of your baby’s cot by about 25%, by putting a pillow under the mattress, but NOT in the cot ✿ If you bottle feed, make sure that the hole in the teat is not too large, because this can cause milk to come out too fast Consult your doctor if: ✿ your baby regularly vomits large amounts up to two hours after feeding, with lots of coughing involved ✿ your baby is irritable during or after feeds, crying and arching his back ✿ your baby refuses to feed ✿ your baby gains insufficient weight Your doctor can discuss further treatments for reflux. These might include adding thickener to expressed breast milk or formula, or using a pre-thickened formula. The symptoms of cow’s milk allergy or intolerance can be very similar to the symptoms of reflux, so, if you breastfeed your baby, your doctor may suggest you stop drinking cow’s milk or having food or drinks containing cow’s milk, or use a hypoallergenic formula for formula-fed babies for a couple of weeks to see if it helps. If the above treatments have not improved the situation, medication may be prescribed.

extra

Dr Tobias Odenwald is a Consultant Paediatrician at Richmond Practice, where advice on reflux and other childhood illness is available. For further information, visit www.richmondpractice.co.uk

This year sees the launch of This Girl Can, a campaign by Sport England which aims to encourage and inspire women to get into exercise. It celebrates active women nationwide who are doing their thing no matter how well they do it, how they look or even how red their face gets!

Clare Balding, spokesperson for This Girl Can nailed it when she said “Exercise changes the way you look at life. You stop seeing boundaries, and start seeing opportunities. Sport is not about getting fit or competing, it’s about being alive.”

Last year, I joined a new local village netball team in Claygate.

Made up of a diverse cross section of the community, none of us had played netball for at least 20 years.

Getting back into team sport has been uplifting and brought a new zest to my week. Yes, we all splutter and puff, drop the ball and fall over, but we also giggle and stay fit at the same time.

So here are my top tips for getting into exercise: Acknowledge that exercise is important, whatever your circumstances. Being too busy being a parent is no excuse. Many parents prioritise exercise and find the time. Focus on the additional energy that exercising will give you which you can channel back into your life.

Don’t try to run a marathon before you can walk. Aim to build up your fitness gradually. Whilst you might love the idea of exercising five times a week, it’s possible that your schedule really won’t allow it. If you are taking classes or joining a gym, aim to go once or twice a week and build on that if and when you can.

Ignore how you feel. Whether it’s leaving the house to go for a run, or heading to the gym, don’t waste time wondering whether you are up for it. The hardest thing about exercise

is starting. So make a commitment to yourself that, barring emergencies, you will exercise at a particular time at a particular place, or a number of times a week. Then, don’t think, just DO!

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Helen Maguire is the owner of Running Fit, which holds running courses and 1:1 sessions for beginner, intermediate and competitive runners in Hampton Court. For more information, visit www.runningfitcoaching.co.uk Feel free to also contact Claygate Village Netball Club at Netball@MooreSecureIT.com

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5

PARENTING

What we say and do when our children make mistakes or experience setbacks has a major impact on how they learn to cope with challenges and can help them develop resilience.

The word ‘resilience’ comes from the Latin word ‘resilio,’ meaning to jump back. In a recent speech, Labour Education Secretary, Tristram Hunt, talked about the importance of being able to overcome adversity and setbacks and stated “As our young people face growing rivalry for jobs, high-status apprenticeships and the best university places, it becomes more and more important for schools to coach pupils about character.”

It is useful if resilience is facilitated at school but fostering resilience starts with the way in which parents help their children make decisions and choices.

Here are five ways in which we can foster resilience in our children: Teach Problem Solving Engage children in working out how they can handle challenges.

Give them the opportunity to think about what works and what doesn’t. When parents always provide all the answers, this can get in the way of children being able to develop their own problem-solving skills and mastery.

To promote problem-solving, ask “how” not “why” questions.

For instance, if a child spills a drink, asking “How are we going to clear up your drink?” is a more strategic question than “Why did you spill your drink?” “Why” questions can infer blame and lead to a child feeling guilt and shame.

Rather than always answering our children’s questions, start saying “I’m not sure, how can we work this out or find out?”

Asking problem-solving questions helps children learn to tolerate uncertainty and think about ways to deal with potential challenges.

Encourage Risk Taking Naturally, parents want to keep their children safe but eliminating all risk removes our children’s lives

This helps focus children on the competencies they need and the qualities of persistence and curiosity required to take risks.

Let Them Make Lots of Mistakes Failure is not the end of the world. It can help our children work out what to do next and make better decisions in future.

By asking children what they have learned and what they would do differently next time, they learn that it is okay to make mistakes and focus instead on the process of decision making, rather than the outcome.

Help Children Manage Emotions The management of emotions is key in resilience. It’s really important to help children feel that all emotions are okay, including anger, frustration and fear. When children are experiencing powerful emotions, ask them what they need.This supports them by acknowledging their feelings, and encourages them to think through how to handle their emotions.

Model Resilience Being a role model is possibly the most important aspect of helping build resilience. Children learn from observing the behaviour of their parents. When we are calm and present in testing situations, this helps our children regulate their own emotions. When we make mistakes as parents, it is good to be honest and open, own up to them and share with our children what we have learned.

Resilience helps children cope with the ups and downs of childhood and adolescence and become strong adults able to navigate challenge and change.

Encouraging Resilience in Children extra

By Dr Linda Mallory

“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” Nelson Mandela of challenge. The key is to expose children to appropriate risks and teach them the essential skills required to handle them. Giving children age-appropriate freedom helps them learn their own limits.

Observe and notice children when they are doing something which involves an element of risk or independence. Ask questions like “I noticed you did that all by yourself… what helped you?”

Dr Linda Mallory is an Educational Psychologist, parent coach and mother of two boys. Feel free to get in touch with her at dr.lindamallory@thewhyparent.com with examples of things you have said or done that have helped your children develop their resilience.

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PARENTING

Tackling Difficult Behaviour

By Anne Denny

them and this is unlikely to improve anyone’s behaviour! Try to focus on the good things about your child’s behaviour, and actively comment on it and offer praise.

This encourages your child to “do it again.”

Understanding a child’s behaviour and feelings involves listening. Do you give your child your full attention when they are talking to you? Or do you scream instructions and demands across the house? How would you respond if your boss or husband treated you this way? Our children are just little versions of us, with the same changing mix of thoughts, emotions and feelings. Unlike us though, they are “still learning”

ssori Nurs e t e on

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Julia ’s M

Tackling difficult behaviour can be challenging for any parent. With a first child, each stage of development is new and daunting, whilst with subsequent siblings, it can feel exasperating to be facing the same set of issues all over again!

Contemporary parents are under a lot of pressure, both from external sources and from the expectations they place upon themselves to be “good” parents. These expectations can impact on how they react to and respond to their children’s behaviour.

Most children go through phases of challenging behaviour that can include clinginess, aggression and anger, temper tantrums, attention-seeking, and unhealthy eating and sleeping patterns. The key thing to remember is that these are only “phases” and will pass in time, even though you may need support to get through them.

Firstly, it’s imperative to remember – you are not a bad parent! I repeat: you are not a bad parent! You are not wholly responsible for the way your child behaves. What you are responsible for is how you respond to their behaviour and your response can have a big impact.

To respond appropriately, it’s important to understand why a child is behaving in a certain way. This will also help you feel less frustrated, angry and out of control. When children behave badly, our frustration can lead us to focus on the negative behaviour and fail to notice or overlook the things our children are doing well.

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and need extra help, support and tolerance from us to get things right. This means talking to them respectfully and listening to them properly.

Have you noticed that your children often want to talk just when you or they are leaving the house or right before bed? This is because children need time to adjust to transitions and often behave badly when rushed through them. Allowing them the space to talk and be heard at these important times clearly involves planning. So if you have to be out of the house at a certain time in the morning, get everything ready the night before

extra

and start preparing to leave the house ten minutes before you need to, so that your child has time to talk and prevaricate. Give your child ten minute’s notice before they need to leave the house, have a bath, do a chore, or go to bed.

When children are behaving badly, it can be because they are upset. It’s important to empathise with their feelings even if the issue seems trivial to you. The fact is, it’s real to them and they want to feel understood. Ask them what might help to make things better?

This will improve their behaviour and lead to self-sufficiency and higher self-esteem – helping them grow into independent, successful adults.

Anne Denny is a qualified psychotherapist with a passion for child development. She is objective, knowledgeable and non-judgemental in her support of parents of children from 18 months to 18 years in the Surrey/Middlesex areas. Anne runs local courses on Positive Parenting with the next course starting on 14 March.

To find out more about these, visit www.annedenny.com

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7

family food&nutrition There is often confusion over the difference between food allergies and food intolerance, especially in children, and so they are often referred to together as ‘food sensitivity.’ However, there are some known differences between the two.

A ‘true’ food allergy is when the body mistakenly perceives a food eaten as a ‘harmful foreign invader,’ and activates an inappropriate immune reaction.

This causes various, sometimes very serious symptoms, such as swelling of mouth, face and throat, hives or rash, wheezing, fever, vomiting, colic and eczema. If your child has a true food allergy, for example, to eggs, milk or nuts, this is likely to have been diagnosed by your GP, as the speed of the reaction between symptoms and the culprit food usually makes the connection obvious. However, when the symptoms take longer to flare up (eg with eczema), the connection to a particular food may be less obvious.

Unlike a food allergy, a food intolerance does not directly trigger an immune response. Symptoms can include bloating,

Food Allergy or Food Intolerance?

By Clare Jeffries

diarrhoea or constipation, tummy aches or colic in babies, bed wetting, headaches, constant running nose, glue ear and rash or itchy skin and are more likely to be caused by the body not being able to properly process the offending food. Food intolerance often occurs when there has been an excess of one food combined with a defect in its digestion or absorption, for instance, in lactose intolerance.

So whilst a small amount of milk added to cakes may not provoke symptoms, a whole glass of milk may cause digestive problems.

What causes food sensitivities?

In food allergy, the body mistakenly produces IgE antibodies in response to everyday foods, which, when eaten, trigger the immune system to mount an attack which results in symptoms. The question of why the body has made this mistake is not entirely understood, though allergies often run in families (known as atopy). Instances of food allergy, especially in children, has risen sharply in the last few decades leading some scientists to conclude that changes in the way we eat, less babies being breastfed, more chemicals in the environment, overuse of antibiotics and our children being ‘too clean,’ are all influencing how well our children’s immune systems develop and function.

In addition to the factors above, overloading the system with too much of one food, for instance, wheat (cereal or toast for breakfast, sandwich for lunch, pasta for dinner), is thought to be a contributory factor to food intolerance, especially if the digestive system is not as healthy as it could be, with low good

Dietary Advice for Children.

Fussy Eaters ● Dental Problems ● Constipation or Diarrhoea ● Food Allergies ● Eczema ● Frequent llness ● Skin Rashes Clare Jeffries Nutritional Therapist

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bacteria or digestive enzymes. So it is important to keep the diet varied.

If you suspect you or your child is suffering with food sensitivities, try keeping a food diary to log reactions. Consider seeking professional help from an accredited Nutritional Therapist, especially before excluding any foods from a child’s diet, as it’s important to ensure they still obtain all nutrients they need.

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Clare Jeffries (Bsc (Hons) NT) is a Nutritional Therapist based in Cobham. Clare specializes in the nutrition and health of babies, children and pregnant mothers, holding workshops and one-to-one consultations.

If you suspect your child has a food sensitivity, do get in touch with Clare for a consultation. For more information, visit www.healthyinfluence.co.uk

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EDUCATION FOCUS SPRING 2015 Outstanding Achievements

9

EDUCATION FOCUS SPRING 2015 Outstanding Achievements

SCHOOLS NEWS OUTSTANDING 7+ SUCCESS FOR ATHELSTAN HOUSE

Year 2 boys and girls at Athelstan House School in Hampton have made parents and teachers proud after their amazing performance at the recent 7+ assessments. Many children received an offer from multiple schools, giving their

parents the pick of the bunch.

Highly-sought-after places were offered at prestigious independent schools including Lady Eleanor Holles, Denmead, Danes Hill, Rowan, The Mall, Newland House, Danesfield Manor and St Catherine’s.

One pupil received four offers, beating stiff competition for a very limited number of places at Guildford High. Head Teachers commended her for “excellent text results” and “fantastic reading” describing her as “very well-mannered” and “articulate.”

All three girls who applied to Lady Eleanor Holles were offered a place at the school with Head teacher, Ffion Robinson commenting on the great potential and well-roundedness always displayed by girls from Athelstan House.

Parents of children at the School are full of praise for both teachers and staff.

For further information, visit www.athelstanhouseschool.co.uk

EXEMPLARY EXTRA-CURRICULAR AT THE MALL

The Mall School in Twickenham, offers an exemplary range of extra-curricular activities to complement the curriculum of the school day. Taking place both before and after school, these include chess, judo, stop-animation filming, basketball and multi-sports - to name just a few! New this term is a Saturday Morning Football Club in Marble Hill Park.

The Mall’s before and after school clubs ensure boys are

cared for from 8am to 6pm every school day in an environment that is always stimulating.

Out of school trips are also a prominent feature of school life.

Residential trips starting in Year 3 include a trip to Normandy in Years 5 and 7, and a one week Outward Bound course in Year 8.

The fun doesn’t stop in the holidays either - The Mall provides multi-sports and other fun clubs, including zorbing, water polo and inflatable sessions in its 20m indoor pool.

For further information, visit www.themallschool.org.uk

10

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BREADTH OF ACHIEVEMENT AND A NEW HEADMASTER AT HALLIFORD! The last few months at Halliford School in Shepperton have seen a number of notable successes, emphasising the breadth of achievement of its pupils.

Tom Phillips (Year 13) welcomed the New Year by receiving a conditional offer to read Architecture at Cambridge University, whilst Tom Callaghan (Year 13) visited St James’ Palace, where the Earl of Wessex presented him with his Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award.

Just before Christmas, another Year 13 pupil, Emma Brown masterminded the raising of money for Save the Children, persuading staff and pupils alike to wear Festive Jumpers for the cause.

New Headmaster, Simon Wilson, who took up his headship in January, has been received with a friendly

welcome by both staff and pupils at the School.

He says of its recent achievements “Successes like these just demonstrate what can be achieved in a small and caring environment.”

For further information, visit www.hallifordschool.co.uk

ST MICHAEL STEINER OPENS NEW NURSERY!

In its prestigious position as the sole Steiner High School in London, The St Michael Steiner School in Hanworth Park offers an education for pupils all the way from the early years to level 3 courses.

With this development, it has been necessary to grow the lower end of the School, resulting in a brand new Nursery which opened in January.

The Nursery will develop into the School’s second Kindergarten and enables the

School to continue to meet the rising demand of many parents eager to provide their children with a Steiner education. For now, led by one of the School’s most experienced teachers, the Nursery is the stepping stone to Kindergarten, allowing the youngest children in the school to attend two mornings a week and warmly introducing them to the rhythm of school life.

Applications for places at the School and Nursery are accepted year round.

For further information, visit www.stmichaelsteinerschool.hounslow.sch.uk March-April 2015

ATHELSTAN HOUSE SCHOOL 020 8979 1045 admin@athelstanhouseschool.co.uk 36 Percy Road Hampton Middlesex TW12 2LA

Halliford School - Shepperton

Independent School for boys 11 - 18 and girls 16 - 18 Set in six acres close to the River Thames

Where small is special

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Excellent academic standards and preparation for local preparatory and independent schools

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School buses serve a wide area Please contact the Registrar registrar@halliford.net

Telephone 01932 223593 www.hallifordschool.co.uk

Families Uponwww.athelstanhouseschool.co.uk Thames 87x130mm /2 21/01/2015 14:13 Page 1

☛

Reception and 7+ places still available for 2015 Limited number of bursaries available for 7+

Open Morning Friday 8 May 2015 9.00 am – 11.30 am

Please email admissions@themallschool.org.uk or call Justine Ray on 020 8614 1084 to book a place.

Personal tours are also available. www.themallschool.org.uk Independent day school for boys aged 4 – 13 years 185 Hampton Road, Twickenham TW2 5NQ The Mall School Trust – Charity No 295003 a company (2036538) limited by guarantee

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11 11

SCHOOL ADMISSION APPEALS

EDUCATION FOCUS SPRING 2015 Outstanding Achievements

By Matthew Paul

The good news is that the majority of local parents and carers who apply for a place for their child at a state-funded school will receive an offer at their first preference school on National Offer Day. National Offer Day this year is 2 March for Year 7 applications and 16 April for Reception.

In 2014, in Richmond borough 80% of Reception applicants and 73% of Year 7 applicants received an offer of a Reception place at their first preference schools. In Kingston, the 2014 percentages were 82% for Reception and 67% for Year 7. Secondary school percentages are always skewed by the high number of applicants for the selective schools within the borough. Overall, nearly all applicants received an offer of a place at one of their preferred schools.

But if it transpires that you do not receive an offer of a place at your preferred school(s), you have the right to appeal. The outcome letter you receive should include details of how to do this.

However, you do need to have a strong reason to appeal.

Simply preferring a different school does not constitute a strong reason. Similarly, an appeal based on different schools being more convenient for your work or child-care arrangements is unlikely to be successful. For the 2013/2014 school year, in Richmond there were 59 appeals for Reception, of which only 3

were successful and 81 for Year 7, out of which only 9 were successful. In Kingston, none of the 14 Reception appeals, and only 8 out of 77 appeals for Year 7, were successful.

Before you consider whether you will appeal, it’s worth visiting the school where you have been offered a place, if

Claremont Fan Court School An independent co-educational school for pupils aged 2½ to 18 years

Open Morning Whole School - 10.00am - 12.30pm Introductory talk at 10.00am Saturday 14 March

Prospective families are very welcome to attend.

For further information please telephone 01372 473624 or email info@claremont.surrey.sch.uk

www.claremont-school.co.uk

12

you haven’t done so already.

It’s always better to see a school for yourself rather than relying on hearsay and Ofsted reports, both of which may be out of date and unrepresentative of reality.

After a visit, you may feel happy for your child to attend that school.

Make sure that your name is on the waiting list for your preferred school(s). Waiting lists for most oversubscribed state-funded schools will experience some, or considerable, movement after National Offer Day, as a number of successful applicants will decide to accept a place in a private school or move out of the area. Consequently, you might be offered the place you wanted after all.

If, though, you do decide to appeal, you should outline very carefully on the appeal form why your child needs to attend that school and why no other school is suitable. Ensure that you provide any independent medical or social evidence that might support your case e.g. from your child’s GP. You should be aware too, that the grounds for a successful appeal are more limited for Reception and Years 1 and 2 (Key Stage 1) than for all other year

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

Families on Thames_MASTER.indd 4

groups and so fewer appeals are successful for Reception than for Year 7. This is because of the legislation which ordinarily limits the size of Key Stage 1 classes to no more than 30 children.

Appeals are heard by an independent panel, usually consisting of three people, who have no relevant connection with the school’s admission authority or the local authority’s school admissions service. By law, an appeal must follow a formal process that is set out in the Department for Education’s School Admissions Appeal Code, which involves you and the representative of the school’s admission authority setting out yours and their respective cases. However, you needn’t feel intimidated by this. The Chair of the panel will do their utmost to make the hearing feel as informal as possible and ensure that you get the opportunity to ask as many questions and say as much as you wish. You will be notified of the outcome of the appeal in writing and, if your appeal is successful, the school concerned must admit your child.

Matthew Paul is Head of School Place Commissioning in Richmond and Kingston.

For further advice, contact the School Admissions Department of your local council.

March-April 2015

17/07/2014 09:53

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EDUCATION FOCUS SPRING 2015 Outstanding Achievements

SCHOOLS NEWS PIRATES AT CLAREMONT FAN COURT SCHOOL Pirate Pete and his sleepy parrot from the Freshwater Theatre recently sought recruits from the Reception classes at Claremont Fan Court Pre-Prep and Nursery School in Esher, to lend a hand on board his ship. The children were whisked away from their classrooms ready to embark on a sea-faring adventure navigating the high seas. They sailed to an imaginary world with squelchy mud and the highest mountains in search of clues to create a magical journey based on the adventurous story The Night Pirates by Peter Harris. The children came dressed

for action wearing an array of pirate costumes with telescopes and cutlasses. The excitement rounded off a creatively planned week with a Land of Make Believe theme designed to stimulate the imagination. With swashbuckling bravado, Pirate Pete, children, teachers, assistants and the sleepy parrot sailed safely back to dry land to tell their friends all about their intrepid adventures!

For further information, visit www.claremont-school.co.uk

ADDITIONAL RECEPTION PLACES AT NEWLAND HOUSE SCHOOL! From autumn 2016, Newland House School in Twickenham will be offering more Reception places, following the opening of a new, dynamic and sustainably-built Pre-Prep school.

The additional space within the carefully designed Pre-Prep will allow the School to roll out a three year plan to move to three form entry throughout the School. This will help meet the demands of local families for co-educational places in the lower year groups of the School, and will also mean that the school’s 7+ entry route and

admissions into an extra class at Year 3 will be phased out. By 2018, the school will have three forms of twenty children across all year groups.

The new school is being constructed on the site immediately next door to the existing Prep School and will provide a bespoke, ergonomic and sustainable environment with space for pupils to learn, play and grow.

For further information, visit www.newlandhouse.net

‘OUTSTANDING’ IN ALL AREAS AT JACK AND JILL SCHOOL! With the publication of the Ofsted report on the very last day of the autumn term, members of the community of the Jack and Jill School in Hampton and Twickenham had plenty to celebrate. Staff, parents and children were able to join together to reflect on an amazing report, in which judgements in all categories including leadership and management, behaviour and safety of pupils, quality of teaching, achievements of pupils and early years provision were pronounced to be “Outstanding.”

The overall statement that Jack and Jill is “an outstanding school” provoked a huge cheer and provided an excellent start to the festive season.

As it had been over six years since the School’s last

inspection, an up-to-date, independent review of its provision was long overdue. Not only has there been great change in education over this period,

but there has also been great change in the organisation and provision at Jack and Jill. It was therefore immensely reassuring to see these efforts appraised in such a positive and glowing

assessment. In many ways the School in its present form bears little resemblance to that visited in 2008, except for the enduring focus on high standards of behaviour, attainment and effort.

Initiatives to enhance these basic principles have included huge investment in the School environment, emphasis on strong partnerships with parents and the local community, and support for those less fortunate, coupled with an overriding desire to provide a service that is excellent in all respects and at all times.

These efforts have now been duly recognised and, most importantly, “the committed focus on developing both academic and personal qualities for all pupils has led to a highly positive and nurturing atmosphere in which to learn.”

For further information, visit www.jackandjillschool.org.uk 14

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

March-April 2015

Newland House School Independent Preparatory Day School for Girls and Boys from 4 to 13 years

“

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Making the academic difference by being small enough to know all our girls individually

Welcome Events 25th March 20th May 24th June

A S E L E C T I V E I N D E P E N D E N T D AY SCHOOL FOR GIRLS AGED 2-16 YEARS MHSDeputy

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New Pre-Prep Development Opens September 2016 Creating a new, sustainable and innovative learning environment

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JACK AND JILL SCHOOL “A tradition of excellence”

Founded in 1951 Nursery & Reception 20 First Cross Road, Twickenham, TW2 5QA.

Committed to the highest standards of academic excellence in a warm and happy environment.

Excellent destination results at 7+.

Founded in 1951 Years 1&2 30 Nightingale Road, Hampton, TW12 3HX.

ASA awards for swimming.

LAMDA speech and language awards.

Recognising each member of the school community as unique, with talents to develop and valuable contributions to make.

Promoting integrity, kindness and respect for others.

Entry to our Nursery from age 2.

Girls only entry into Reception from age 4.

Extended care with our staff from 8am – 6pm throughout the year.

For further information please contact Admissions on: Tel: 0208 898 7310 e-mail: admissions@jackandjillschool.org.uk website: www.jackandjillschool.org.uk March-April 2015

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

15 15

GETTING BOYS READING EDUCATION FOCUS SPRING 2015 Outstanding Achievements

By Liz Walker

Research by Save the Children in the recently published Read On, Get On report reveals that the gap between the reading ability of girls and boys in the UK is one of the widest in the developed world. In 2013, 78% of girls were reading well by age 11, but only 72% of boys.

Following the Save the Children report, the Read On, Get On campaign was launched in September 2014 with the goal of ensuring that by 2025 all 11 year olds leave primary school able to read well. Reading well means achieving level 4 at school, or, in real life terms being able to enjoy books such as Treasure Island or Harry Potter, as well as confidently

employers are being encouraged to get involved with Read On, Get On by forming partnerships with local schools and being more flexible with employees to allow them to volunteer to help with reading. Imagine the impact when boys in a school see a real builder with his hard hat on reading with a child, because his employer allowed him to extend his lunch by half an hour!

Boys are more likely to be embarrassed to read or to be seen to enjoy reading than girls, in case it is interpreted as un-cool.

Boys need ‘cool’ role models to be seen reading, to talk about books and to get involved in reading projects in schools. Get your son to write inviting sports personalities, celebrities or authors to visit his school.

Integrate reading into everyday life. Ask your son to help you read instructions, or get him to read out the recipe as you are cooking. When shopping recently, I was heartened to see a dad who being able to enjoy reading in a magazines, skateboard magazines, was getting his son to read out wide range of subjects.* golf magazines, farming various signs and captions in the There is a virtuous circle magazines, football programmes department store. between enjoying reading and or sports biographies.

Time-pressured parents need to being a good reader. So how do Get dads reading at home! re-think how they enjoy their we get more boys to love books Children fall into reading habits time with boys. If you only end and stories and read for pleasure? based on what goes on in their up with half an hour of one-to-one Here are my tips: home. If boys never see their dad time with your son every day, then As recommended by Read for at least ten minutes or older brother reading, they are reading a book should be as much Kids’ uniform going a day with or to your children. much less likelyastray? to pick up a book of a priority as kicking a ball in the BUY OF THE DAY Frequent short bursts are better themselves. back garden. than prolonged reading sessions. If Get dads into schools! Many If nothing else works – use it becomes as much a part of your schools and organisations such as incentives! ...You need routine as putting on socks, then Beanstalk (www.beanstalkcharity.

Being able to read well at the reluctant readers are less likely to org.uk) encourage volunteer age of 11 is key to a successful Thereaders easy one-snap complain. to help with children’s education. Children need to Read anything. Boys are more way reading. not easy for working ‘learn to read,’ in order to ‘read to labelIt’s clothing! likely to enjoy reading if they can people to take time out to help to learn.’ choose their own reading material with reading in school, but *Read On, Get On report, published PUSH—CLICK— SNAPPED ON! and read for a purpose. Try gadget

by Save the Children, September,

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Keep tabs on

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Call: (0844) 5611994 Walker is Founder of Reading Chest, a postal book rental service theirLizclothes... www.snappytags.co.uk for reluctant readers, which offers a huge range of reading schemes, including many non-fiction titles. Liz was inspired to launch Reading Chest when her own son’s school ran out of books for him to read because he hadn’t made enough progress to move up the next colour band. For more information, visit www.readingchest.co.uk As recommended by

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March-April 2015

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17

EDUCATION FOCUS SPRING 2015 Outstanding Achievements

SCHOOLS NEWS MILBOURNE LODGE WINS WILDLIFE WORLD ‘DESIGN A BUG HOTEL’ COMPETITION Pupils from Milbourne Lodge School in Esher have been presented with an award by Wildlife World for their Bug Hotel designs.

These wonderful and imaginative ‘hotels’ were designed and built as part of a Year 6 Art and IT wildlife project.

Vanessa Marshall from Wildlife World commented on the extremely high standard of work submitted, the creative designs, the 3D digital plans and animations, as well as the final constructions. In recognition of this hard work and dedication, Wildlife World awarded a magnificent

Educational Pyramid to Milbourne. Five individual awards were also presented.

Stephen Ilett, Milbourne Lodge’s Headmaster said “We are very proud of the wonderful project that the children worked so hard to create and we’re looking forward to welcoming our first ‘guests’ to their new hotel in Claygate this summer!”

For further information, visit www.milbournelodge.co.uk

NOTRE DAME CHOIR DELIGHTS CISC DELEGATES

Year 5 to Year 8 student members of the Choir of Notre Dame School in Cobham were recently selected to sing at the CISC Mass. This prestigious event was attended by the heads of Catholic independent schools nationwide and was a collaboration between Notre Dame School, St George’s School College in Weybridge and St Joseph’s School in Cranleigh. The Notre

Dame Choir sang the beautiful and haunting Adonai from the Chichester Psalms by Bernstein, with Year 8 student, Emanuela N, ably providing the soprano solo.

Other items included in the Mass were Howard Goodall’s Love Divine and John Rutter’s A Gaelic Blessing. The girls were given well-deserved praise for their hard work and exemplary and moving performances.

For further information, visit www.notredame.co.uk

NURTURING, INSPIRING AND ACHIEVING SUCCESS AT TWICKENHAM PREP SCHOOL! Twickenham Prep is a school which is always innovating.

Most recently, it has negotiated provision of a dedicated 10 acre sporting facility for the School via a new partnership with Kempton Cricket Club, and introduced wraparound care to the school day, extending it from 8am to 6pm, and offering parents greater flexibility.

These new initiatives enhance the provision of a school with a reputation for being forward-thinking and inspiring. As well as excellent facilities, including an outstanding, spacious and light-filled Pre-Prep, Music and Art block, well-equipped subject specialist rooms and wonderful sports grounds, the School is praised for its nurturing, family-orientated and friendly atmosphere. This reputation is

embodied in Head, David Malam, who has been at the School for 20 years, as a teacher, a parent and now as Head Teacher.

David’s long experience at Twickenham Prep has enabled him to appreciate every aspect of what makes the School special.

He is understandably proud of the academic achievements of its pupils and the scholarships and awards they receive to top schools, as well as the status the School enjoys as National Champions in Chess and Mind Lab – a thinking skills programme.

“But I am equally buoyed by the positive atmosphere that greets me when I walk through the door every morning” reports David.

Entry to the School is at Reception and pupils may be registered for entry after birth.

When children join at age 4, the nurturing, happy environment ensures each is quickly ready to

learn. This learning is enhanced by investigating and exploring the garden areas at the back of each classroom, meetings with their class partners from the Prep Department and taking part in whole-school activities such as Book Week, House Competitions and Charity Days.

Specialist teaching of PE, Games, Mind Lab, ICT, French and Music challenges the children in their thinking and learning, promoting consistently high academic standards.

Occasional entry to the School is available in other year groups but competition for limited places is stiff.

Places are offered, subject to availability, and by assessment in English, Mathematics and Reasoning.

For further information, visit www.twickenhamprep.co.uk 18

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

March-April 2015

Nurturing, Inspiring, Achieving Success

Independent Day School for Boys aged 4-13 & Girls aged 4-11 located in Hampton

Milbourne Lodge School

A caring and happy school, providing an inspiring education amongst first-class facilities.

Achieving high academic standards and excellent personal development within a broad curriculum.

Open Morning Friday May 8th 2015 | 9 – 11.30am30 am Milbourne Lodge is an independent day school in Esher, providing an exceptional education for boys and girls aged 4-13.

9am Arrival & Coffee 9.30am Headmaster’s Address 10am – 11.30am School Tours 43 Arbrook Lane, Esher, Surrey KT10 9EG

• • • • •

Unrivalled teaching excellence.

Outstanding record of success at Scholarship, Common Entrance and Pre-Testing.

Excellent Music, Art, ICT and Sport departments with a daily games programme.

Pre-Prep department for children aged 4 – 7.

Daily bus from SW London.

For further information, please contact us T: 01372 462737 E: admin@milbournelodge.co.uk W: www.milbournelodge.co.uk

School Open Day 9th May 10am-12noon.

All welcome.

Tel: 020 8979 6216 Email: office@twickenhamprep.co.uk www.twickenhamprep.co.uk

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Hampton 0208 9797117 Hounslow 0203 5358039 Walton on Thames 01932 252033 www.explorelearning.co.uk March-April 2015

“Explore Learning members’ improvement in maths was 30% higher than that of the comparison group after controlling for gender, age, year group and special educational needs.”

Independent Efficacy Study by the Institute of Education at Reading University (2013). See www.explorelearning.co.uk/efficacy.

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www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

19

SCHOOLS NEWS OPEN DAY LISTINGS SPRING/SUMMER 2015

Geography pupils from Thames Christian College recently spent a day at the House of Lords debating the future of development in the Arctic.

The motion of the debate, organised by the House of Lords Select Committee on the Arctic, was: This House considers that environmental protection in the Arctic is more important than economic development.

Kerri, Year 9, delivered the opening speech for the motion with great composure, earning praise from Arctic Committee Chair, Lord Teverson, for getting the debate off to an excellent start.

Lord Teverson made clear that the views expressed by the young people would be taken very seriously and included in the Committee’s report to the government. He said: ‘You will be making a real difference in this vital debate.’

Thames’ pupils were also given

Photography by Gigi Giannella.

EDUCATION FOCUS SPRING 2015 Outstanding Achievements

THAMES CHRISTIAN COLLEGE DEBATES AT THE HOUSE OF LORDS

a guided tour of the Houses of Parliament, coaching in public speaking skills from the English Speaking Union, and a buffet lunch overlooking the Thames.

For further information, visit www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk

If you have fewer than 5 GCSEs, we can offer you free classes to show you how to help your children with their English and Maths.

Classes are held across Surrey in a school or children’s centre near you.

For more information, please text PARENT to 88802* *costs one text at standard network rate

Family

Learning

20

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

Ad Primary Times quarter page Feb2015 v1.indd 1

Surrey

Adult Learning

12/02/2015 17:13

ATHELSTAN HOUSE SCHOOL Friday, 20 March 9.30am to 11.30am Friday, 1 May

9.30am to 11.30am No appointment necessary. For further information, call 020 8979 1045.

CLAREMONT FAN COURT SCHOOL Whole School Saturday, 14 March 10.00am to 12.30pm Introductory Talk at 10.00am For further information, call 01372 467841.

HALLIFORD SCHOOL Thursday, 5 March 9.30am and 11.30am Tuesday, 10 March 9.30am and 11.30am Thursday, 7 May 9.30am and 11.30am Please contact the School on 01932 223593 to book on to a tour.

MANOR HOUSE Whole School Wednesday, 6 May 9.30am Please contact School on 01372 457077 to reserve a place.

MILBOURNE LODGE Friday, 8 May 9.00am to 11.30am For further information, call 01372 462737.

NEWLAND HOUSE SCHOOL Welcome Events Prep Welcome Events Wednesday, 25 March 2pm to 3.30pm Wednesday, 20 May 2pm to 3.30pm Wednesday, 24 June 2pm to 3.30pm Pre-Prep Welcome Events Visits are welcome most Mondays and Wednesdays during term time For all Welcome Events, please call 020 8865 1305 to confirm your place or to arrange an individual visit to see the school.

NOTRE DAME SCHOOL Tuesday, 3 March 9.00am to 11.00am Thursday, 11 June 4.30pm to 6.30pm For further information, call 01932 869990.

THAMES CHRISTIAN COLLEGE Thursday, 5 March 11.00am to 1.00pm For further information, call 020 7228 3933.

THE MALL SCHOOL Wednesday, 25 February 9.00am to 11.30am Friday, 8 May 9.00am to 11.30am Advance booking necessary. Please call 020 8614 1084.

THE ST MICHAEL STEINER SCHOOL Preparing Support your child to increase confidence, Saturday, 7 March the Way to self-esteem and communication skills for 11am to 2pm Secondary an easy transition to secondary school.

Weekly workshops start in April in Saturday, 9 May School Through East Molesey 11am to 2pm Call or email for more Saturday, 20 June Drama information or to book a limited space.

For all your tutoring needs.

11am to 2pm For further info@completelearning.org.uk 0203 489 7412 information, please www.completelearning.org.uk call 020 8893 1299.

TWICKENHAM PREP SCHOOL FOR ALL YOUR Whole School TUTORING NEEDS Saturday, private tuition in your home Call or 9 May 10.00am to 12.00pm email to let - group classes and workshops in East Molesey us know Prospective parents - all subjects how we can join assembly, can support - 11+ and entrance exam preparation meet the Headmaster your child’s - tailored to your requirements by and qualified and experienced teachersFor have a personal tour. learning. further information, info@completelearning.org.uk please call www.completelearning.org.uk 0203 489 7412 020 8979 6216.

GET SET GO!

March-April 2015

Easter Days Out

LOOK OUT FOR EASTER EGG HUNTS!

In partnership with

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• Hobbledown is a 50-acre farm park adventure featuring towers, tunnels, mazes, aerial walkways, a daring high ropes course and a 14,000 sq ft indoor play barn

For spring and summer events go to our website or follow us on Facebook.

• With our own Zoo Licence, we have more than 150 animals Follow us on facebook; hobbledownuk and twitter; @Hobbledown

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Easter holiday family fun RHS Garden Wisley, Surrey. Near junction 10 of the M25 Buy tickets online at rhs.org.uk/wisley

06/02/2015 14:44

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RHS Registered Charity Number: 222879/SC038262

March-April 2015

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

21

Easter Days Out

LOOK OUT FOR EASTER EGG HUNTS!

For the perfect place to experience the very best of spring, head to The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Garden Wisley and enjoy a vibrant day out exploring its amazing glass houses, ponds, flora of all kinds, trees galore and tempting cafes in which to enjoy foody treats!

This spring, Wisley will offer an array of gardening-inspired activities, as well as something for all ages and stages every day of the Easter holidays.

Children can hop through the garden in pursuit of the delicious Lindt Gold Bunny from 28 March to 12 April, following the clues that will lead them to a yummy Lindt chocolate treat and make an Easter Bunny Bonnet inspired by Lindt on Easter Sunday

5 April. Also not to be missed are the magnificent birds of prey which will soar above the garden on 11 and 12 April.

Make sure you hold on to those eggs!

A visit to Wisley wouldn’t be complete without an exploration of the floral paradise of the Glasshouse, a jungle retreat in which you can experience new and exciting plants.

Between 28 March and 26 April the Glasshouse will be the setting for the Orchids in the Glasshouse display. A celebration of all things bright and beautiful, Orchids in the Glasshouse combines exotic colour and innovative planting displays to create an oasis for all lovers of the beautiful and fragrant!

For more information, visit www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley

Hooray for Hobbledown!

By Olivia Malaure Falconry displays, Egg Hunts, and character shows with the Hobblers will be among the attractions on offer at Hobbledown this Easter. With a great line up of events planned and the arrival of some new lambs, there should be something to suit everyone!

You can’t go past Hobbledown for varied and challenging indoor and outdoor play experiences for all ages.

For those over 1.3m in height, it’s time to take on the daring High Ropes Course, open daily from 10.30am to 4.30pm.

Brave adventurers should also reconnoitre the Underground Tunnels and Gargoyle climbing structure. Younger children can swing, slide and build sandcastles until they are exhausted and ready to meet the animals during the daily programme of animal talks and feeding.

NEW for 2015 is a

designated Animal Petting Zone, The Granary, for encounters with mice, rats, guinea pigs and rabbits. Animal feeding and talks take place at intervals throughout the day and children can learn about raccoon dogs, meerkats and otters.

Also new is the Mini Adventure Park built for Hobbledown’s eleven resident Meerkats! The Meerkat enclosure now includes a swing, tunnel and bridges built using wood

from Hobbledown’s famed Oak Tree that was struck by lightning last year and turned into unique animal housing

by Hobbledown’s master craftsman!

After a wander around the farm, the parent-friendly, spacious and clean indoor play barn is a great spot for a coffee and a bite to eat while the kids explore, bounce around, and expel another spurt of energy before home time!

For more information, visit www.hobbledown.com 22

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

March-April 2015

Girl with basket of easter eggs Credit: RHS / Helen Jermyn. © RHS

Put Spring in Your Step at RHS Garden Wisley! By Olivia Malaure

LOOK OUT FOR EASTER EGG HUNTS!

Easter Days Out

Go on an Easter Eggspedition with The National Trust!

By Olivia Malaure

This Easter, families can explore the great outdoors whilst following the Cadbury’s Easter Trail at a local National Trust property. A Trail Journal containing an Eggspedition trail map and clues will help kids stay on track and, after completing the trail, each Eggsplorer will receive a delicious Cadbury’s Chocolate Egghead!

At Osterley Park and House, you can spot flowers and wildlife, have fun on the rope swings and build a den on the Adventurous Easter Play Trail from 3 to 6 April from 11am to 4pm.

Alternatively, drop into Little Seedlings Gardening Club on 31 March from 12pm to 4pm and help out in the kitchen garden.

On 1 April between 12pm and 4pm, it’s time to get back to your ‘50 Things’ list and start ticking off all those activities ripe for experiencing before you are11¾.

There’s also a drop-in Sticky Fingers Craft Workshop to enjoy on 2 April from 12pm to 3pm.

Lovers of garden games should head down to Ham House at Easter and hire a basket of outdoor games to play in the garden, including Connect4, quoits, and noughts and crosses. Between 3 and 6 April, Easter Egg Trails can also be purchased from the Easter Egg Stall and there will also be FREE family art activities in the below stairs rooms.

Small hands will be kept busy at Claremont Landscape Garden in Esher with craft activities in the Thatched Cottage between 30 March and 4 April. There’s a playground, a woodland denbuilding area and an amphitheatre with rolling hills to trudge up and race down! The Claremont Easter Trail runs from 3 to 4 April between 10am and 4pm and this year’s Easter Bonnet

Parade will be even bigger the better with prizes for the best bonnets awarded at 3pm on Easter Saturday.

Polesden Lacey, near Dorking, celebrates spring with face painting, storytelling and games from 3 to 6 April. Whilst at Morden Hall Park, children 8+ can learn how to build dens, cook on a campfire and track

wild animals on 31 March and 7 April at 1pm (advanced booking required). Alternatively, kids will love river dipping in Wild Wednesday’s River Wandle activity on 1 April or challenging their friends in the Quacky Rubber Duck Races on 8 April at 10am. The Morden Hall Easter Trail runs from 3 to 6 April between 11am and 4pm.

For further information, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Race to Brooklands Museum for a Packed Day of Entertainment! By Olivia Malaure Brooklands Museum in Weybridge is a gem of a museum and a charming family day out. It truly has something on offer to spark the imagination of every curious child this Easter – particularly those that love transport!

Kids can scramble aboard buses at The London Bus Museum at Brooklands, whilst young speed fiends will love The Jackson Shed, which is jam-packed with Formula 1 racing cars, and comes

complete with an F1 simulator in which the whole family can test their driving speed! There are also the old racing lock ups to explore, now housing every kind of bike imaginable, from penny farthings to record-breaking racing bikes!

Not to be missed are the grounded aircraft, including the very plush interior of the Sultan of Oman’s VC10. Brooklands is also home to Concorde and for an extra charge, families can explore this innovative part of aviation history.

For transport experiences on the move, families can take a relaxing fifteen minute bus journey around Brooklands on a double decker bus and enjoy vintage car rides along the old Race Track! Car rides will operate from 11am to 1pm and from 2 to 4pm (subject to weather).

For gentler pleasures, look out for Bertie the Brooklands Bear, who will be making guest appearances or pick up one of the trails for children around the Museum which will entertain children up to 12 years old.

Unique family activities will be held every week day from 30 March to 10 April, excluding Bank Holidays, including some family workshops. Children can experiment with chalk and vegetable oil to create beautiful works of art in the Paper Marbling and Science Workshops from 30 March to 2 April. From 7 and 10 April, kids can also try the Create a Vehicle Drawing Workshop.

Both workshops run between 11am and 12.30pm and 2.00pm and 4.00pm.

For more information, visit www.brooklandsmuseum.com

March-April 2015

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

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Easter Days Out Experience the Best of Bocketts at Easter! By Olivia Malaure

LOOK OUT FOR EASTER EGG HUNTS!

Celebrate Easter with the Animals Olivia at Hounslow Urban Farm! By Malaure

If you book online, you receive a free gift, or you can simply turn up and pay on the day!

indoor play barns furnished with giant astroslide and trampolines, as well as a young drivers tractor area and the Small Animal Village.

If the weather is fine, enjoy sandpits, slides, pedal go-karts, play trails and jumping pillows, as well as a full programme of farm events including pony rides, tractor rides, goat milking, pig racing, gold panning and more.

Don’t forget to complete the Egg Hunt Trail too – there’s a yummy chocolate treat for each child at the end!

Bocketts farm is the perfect place to enjoy the longer, brighter, days of spring.

For more information, visit www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

Easter family fun Osterley Park and House Cadbury Easter trails Fri 3 - Mon 6 April, plus many more family activities throughout the holidays Members and under 5s go free

020 8232 5050 nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley

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www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

tortoise race or honing their bunny hopping skills in time to catch the Easter Bunny! The farm is home to a wide range of animals and is particularly good for young children who can enjoy feeding them with special feed.

There are outdoor and indoor play spaces, a bouncing castle and trampolines for children to play on at no extra cost, and a café serving light refreshments.

For further information, visit www.hounslowurbanfarm.co.uk

All Aboard for a Spring Day Out with Thomas! By Olivia Malaure Train-loving children will be tooting their horns with excitement at the highly-rated Day Out with Thomas event at The Watercress Line between 3 and 12 April.

Children can enjoy rides in the Thomas Carriage or Toad the Brake Van on Thomas the Tank Engine at Ropley station, as well as in Diesel’s Friends’ cab at Alresford station.

Ticket prices include all activities and an entire day’s travel on the big steam trains that run up and down the line, making this a full day of traditional steam engine fun.

The Fat Controller and other Thomas characters will be enjoying the entertainment, including Thomas-themed games, colouring and DVD shows, a bouncy slide, face painting, Punch & Judy and the ever-popular Mr Wizard Shows, guaranteed to entertain with silly jokes and tricks.

A Day out with Thomas is an uber child-friendly experience, boasting free buggy parking, picnic area and buffet car at Ropley, picnic storage, refreshments, baby feeding and nappy changing facilities. © National Trust Images/Rob Stothard. Registered Charity Number 205846.

There’s oodles of fun to be had at Bocketts Farm near Leatherhead between 28 March and 12 April.

The lambing season will be in full swing, with over 300 newborn lambs due to be born in the Big Animal Barn. There will be daily opportunities to Meet the Shepherd, and, if the timing’s right you may even see a lamb being born! Daily animal handling sessions will give children a chance to get close to the cute chicks and cuddly rabbits and they can also meet llamas, goats, cows and a litter of piglets!

Don’t be put off if the weather is bad! There’s a huge amount to do inside at Bocketts with warm

Spend an afternoon on a family run farm! Bring your boots, dress for mess and enjoy pig racing, an owl display and Animal Encounters at Hounslow Urban Farm, at which children can meet a range of animals from rabbits and chinchillas to lizards and birds.

Kids will love chatting to the characterful alpacas, challenging their friends to a slow-motion

For more information, visit www.watercressline.co.uk

March-April 2015

30 MARCH – 2 APRIL and 7 – 10 APRIL • Car Rides* • Meet Bertie Bear • Workshops for Kids *Subject to weather

EVERY DAY • 4D Theatre • Concorde Experience • Trails for Kids • London Bus Museum • Soft Play Area & Café

Come & meet Bertie Bear

EASTER CAMPS, WORKSHOPS AND COURSES DRAMA, DANCE & MUSIC

Perform

Pirates and Princesses Easter Workshop

For Ages: 4-7 8 Apr to 10 Apr (10am to 12pm) in Richmond Children will be going on a swashbuckling royal adventure for brave pirates and fearless princesses, with costumes, live music, scripts, improvisation and dance.

Whether running down the palace steps to defeat the fiery dragon or setting sail for treasure on the high seas, it’s going to be the best fun of their holidays. Experienced workshop leaders take a tailored approach enabling children of all ages to participate and take part in a final performance for friends and family. Families readers get a 10% discount by using the code FamiliesEaster2015.

Phone: 0845 400 1284 enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk/classes-courses/ holiday-courses/piratesprincesses

Pyjama Drama

Easter Workshops

For Ages: 4-7 (Unless otherwise specified, book all workshops and sessions with Phylly at phylly@pyjamadrama.com) 40 Minutes Drama & 30 Minutes Play at Piglets in Hersham For Ages: 2-5 30 Mar, 1 Apr, 8 Apr and 10 Apr Call Piglets on 01932 241323 for further details.

A Very Sleepy Bunny For: Under 5s 1 Apr (2.00pm to 2.40pm (2.5 - 4yrs) and 3.00pm to 3.40pm (22mnths - 2.5yrs) in Ashtead 2 Apr (2.00pm to 2.40pm and 3.15 to 3.55pm (both 2-5yrs) in Cobham Easter-themed singing, dancing, pretending and playing...plus egg hunt! £7 per child, £4 per additional sibling.

Caterpillar Soup 8 Apr (2.00pm to 2.40pm for 2.5 to 4 yrs) in Ashtead Creeping Crawlies 8 Apr (3.00pm to 3.40pm for 22mths to 2.5yrs) in Ashtead A caterpillar with big ideas meets a nasty old witch intending to make caterpillar soup! £7 per child, £4 per additional sibling. Discount for both sessions!

It’s a Garden Invasion For Ages: 5-7 31 Mar (9.30am to 12.30pm) in Walton 2 Apr (9.30am to 12.30pm) in Cobham It’s a sizzling hot day for a barbecue, but we find we are not alone…Doug the slug, Gail the snail and friends want a bite!

Aye, Aye, Captain Laugh-a-Lot! 7 Apr (9.30am to 12.30pm) in Walton 9 Apr (9.30am to 12.30pm) in Thames Ditton Which pirate gang will find the pot of gold first? £20 per child, sibling/double discounts apply.

tion to your child’s sporting life! e founda t a m i t l The u

HOL CAM IDAY BIRT PS & H PAR DAY TIES !

● Ball Skills & Movement Classes From 2 to Pre-School ●

Small Class Sizes ● Age Appropriate Skills & Fun Games

● Multi Sports Skills & Mini Games for Reception & Year 1 ●

Maximum Ball Time ● Teamwork Skill Development for all Ball Sports

● Sport

● Sport Academies for Age 6+ Hampton – playball.kay@gmail.com Kingston – kingston.playball@gmail.com Richmond/St Mrgts – richmond.playball@gmail.com Barnes – barnes.playball@gmail.com www.playballkids.com

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Just Imagine Ballet Peter Pan Easter Ballet Camp

For Ages: 3-7 30 Mar to 1 Apr (10am to 1pm) in Richmond Take the second star to the right and straight on ‘til morning to join a magical three day Peter Pan ballet camp!

Children don’t have to be current pupils to join in the fun and no ballet experience is necessary.

Friends, siblings and visiting family all welcome!

Contact: The Fairy Godmother info@twinkletoesballet. com www.facebook.com/pages/Twinkle-ToesBallet/130360480380011

Mozo Island

Music Explorers Easter Camp

For Ages: 5-8 8-10 Apr (9.30am to 3pm or half days, if preferred) in Richmond Fun music and art workshops incorporating beginner’s guitar, keyboard, recorder, ukulele and drumming. Solve puzzles, find secret locations on a treasure map and win prizes.

Children can fire up their musical imaginations, whilst developing confidence and new skills. Fun and easy music and art for young beginners and intermediates. £38 per day for full days or £22 per half day. Siblings £22 per day for full days or £17 per half day.

Contact: James Tucker 07899 811703 mozoisland@gmail.com mozoislandmusicschool.blogspot.co.uk

Just Imagine Ballet (formally Twinkle Toes Ballet)

Enchanting & magical classes with props, puppets & pictures to inspire & delight children from

18 months - 10 years old

Places available Enrolling now! phone: 07879 521 457 email: info@twinkletoesballet.com RICHMOND - TWICKENHAM - KEW - EAST SHEEN March-April 2015

EASTER CAMPS, WORKSHOPS AND COURSES Rock and Roll Boot Camp – For Musical Youngsters

For Ages: 8-11 & 12-16 30 Mar to 2 Apr (11.15am to 3.50pm) at Ritz Music in Richmond and The PowerStation Youth Centre in Mortlake A course for musical youngsters which gives them the opportunity to rehearse and gig in live band! Students will learn from and jam with working professional musicians with years of experience of music tuition and in the international live music scene. All tutors are DBS (formerly known as CRB) checked. The grand finale is a gig on the Thursday evening for family, friends and the public at a local venue.

Contact: Richard Coulson 07545 543357 info@richardcoulsonmusic.com www.rcmusicschool.com

Theatrebugs

The Very Unhappy Donkey Easter Workshops

For Ages: 3.5-7 30 Mar to 1 Apr (9am to 12pm) in Claygate 7 Apr to 9 Apr (9am to 12pm) in Oxshott 7 Apr to 9 Apr (1.30pm to 4.30pm) in Weybridge Derek the Donkey LOVES to sing but his poor neighbours, Flutterby Butterfly and Buzz the Bee, have to block their ears! When Derek enters Field’s Got Talent!’ things don’t quite go to plan and the poor donkey is ready to give up singing forever! Can the boys and girls help Sam the Superhero find Derek a friend who sings the same tune?

We hope so! Three fun-filled days of acting, dancing, singing, art and craft and dressing up. On day three, children hit the stage! £82 with 15% Early Bug Discount (For T&Cs see website) Contact: Hannah Mason 01483 882244/07971 004134 hannahmason@theatrebugs.co.uk www.theatrebugs.co.uk/surrey.html

Stagecoach Twickenham Wonderful West End

For Ages: 6-18 30 Mar to 2 Apr (10am to 4pm) in Teddington

Toy Tales

For Ages: 4-7 30 Mar to 2 Apr (9.30-12.30) in Teddington Wonderful West End is a fun-filled, four day workshop inspired by West End shows such as Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Les Miserables, Annie and more! Toy Tales is a creative four day workshop exploring the world of toys and what lives under the bed. Let’s go to infinity and beyond!

Contact: Sarah Chitty 020 8977 0843/07824 999414 twickenham@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/twickenham/

Bridge Storytelling Adventures Alice in Wonderland Holiday Workshop For Ages: 2-8 6 to 10 April (10am to 12pm) in Twickenham This fun course is jam-packed with song, dance, drama and art and craft as the children go on an adventure down the rabbit hole!

Children can attend for five days or just one or two. The week culminates in an informal

sharing of work to friends and family. £85 for the week or £25 per day. Bring a buddy and pay £55 per week or £12.50 per day.

Contact: Amanda 020 3222 3085 amanda@bridgeac.com www.bridgeac.com

COOKERY

Step on Stage Academy of Performing Arts

Easter Holiday Workshop - ANNIE! For Ages: 4-6 and 7-10 8 Apr to 10 Apr (9.30am to 1pm) in Hampton Hill Don’t wait until Tomorrow to book your child on to this lively musical theatre workshop. Children will have heaps of fun learning dances, songs and exploring the characters from the musical, ready for a presentation to parents on the last day.

Contact: Emma-Louise McCauleyTinniswood/Caroline Robertson 07973 900196 info@steponstageacademy.co.uk www.steponstageacademy.co.uk

Sassy Stirrers

Easter Workshops

For Ages: 4-12 9 & 10 April (10.30am to 3pm) in Thames Ditton Spring-time cooking and cookie jar baking and decorating classes.

Contact: Sassy Stirrers Cooking Club 07789 792676 info@sassystirrers.com www.sassystirrers.com

Drama Musical Theatre Piano & Singing Dance Award Winning Performing Arts School and Youth Theatre

NEW DANCE SCHOOL OPENS APRIL IN TWICKENHAM

Twickenham, Hampton Hill & Sunbury Weekly classes for 3-21 years Youth Theatre & Children’s Agency Summer Schools, LAMDA, ABRSM Exams

Call Emma 07973 900196 info@steponstageacademy.co.uk www.steponstageacademy.co.uk

March-April 2015

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

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EASTER CAMPS, WORKSHOPS AND COURSES SPORT

PK Swim School

Easter Swim Crash Course

For Ages: 3-15 years 6 Apr to 10 Apr (10am to 1pm) in Cobham Improve your child’s swimming.

Boost their skill set and confidence. Covers all four main strokes including diving and structured games. All students will receive a certificate at end of course.

Contact: Paul Furness 07915 510720 info@ pkswimschool.co.uk www.pkswimschool.co.uk

London Scottish

Easter Rugby Camp

For Ages: 6-16 Tues 31 Mar to Thurs 2 April in Richmond A three day rugby camp that has been designed with the modern game in mind. The camp will be led by London Scottish professional players and community coaches and will focus on all round player development looking at individual positional skills right the way through to unit skills and into game tactics…..all served up with a good dose of fun! £25 per day or a discounted rate of £65 to attend for all three days.

Contact: Ross Peacock 0203 397 9551 ross.peacock@londonscottish.com www.londonscottish.com

Springboard Swimmers Easter Swimming Course

For Ages: 3 to 8 Weeks beg 30 Mar and 6 Apr in Teddington Holiday swimming course for non-swimmers

and beginners. Very small groups of only three children with friendly tutor in the water with them. Parents can observe pool side.

Contact: 020 8255 7455 admin@springboardswimmers.com www.springboardswimmers.com

Coerver® Coaching Easter Football Course

Classes in:

Ashtead, Cobham, Esher, Hersham, Walton Contact

on or email

For Ages: 7-14 10 April (9am to 3.30pm) in Kingston 31 Mar (9am to 3.30pm) in Osterley Holiday football clinic for U8-U16 players.

Each session will be based on the individual 1v1 skills of players such as Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and Angel Di Maria. Participants will also have the opportunity to use the latest football equipment and win adidas® prizes in Coerver® skill competitions. Just £16 for 6.5 hours of high quality, professional technical coaching!

Contact: Amit Sohal 020 3544 2284 westlondon@coerver.co.uk www.coerver.co.uk/westlondon

London Scottish Easter Rugby Camp Ages 6-16 Theatre Arts Schools

Stagecoach Twickenham

GRAB AF FOR A LYER DISC £10 OUN T!

Easter Workshops!

31March - 2 April

Fun, games based rugby camps!

Develop your skills, learn the latest techniques and tactics, and benefit from professional coaches at the top of the game!

020 3397 9551 ross.peacock@londonscottish.com www.londonscottish.com

The Athletic Ground, Kew Foot Road, TW9 2SS

We are now enrolling for our Holiday Workshops Sign up today to make friends, build confidence & learn songs and routines from your favourite shows.

SPringboard SWimmerS

Wonderful West End 6-18 years 30th March-2nd April

Private swimming lessons for the easter holidays

4-6 years 30th March-2nd April

Please note that a deposit is required on application All welcome you do not have to be a stagecoach student to attend!

If you haven’t done a crash course before, you will be amazed at how much progress is made in only one week!

Stagecoach Twickenham Call: 020 8977 0843 / 07824 999414 www.stagecoach.co.uk/twickenham twickenham@stagecoach.co.uk

Call us on 020 8255 7455

Believing in the potential of every child Age 4-18 Fun, confidence-building, educational, classes in acting, singing and dance.

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Crash courses for the easter holidays available

or email admin@springboardswimmers.com QUALITY TRAINING

www.springboardswimmers.com

Suitable for: non-swimmers and beginners from 3 years of age, children needing stroke improvement.

Where: Stanley Primary School, Teddington.

This is an indoor, heated pool of constant 1m depth.

CoSt: £57.50 per child per week; this gives you 5 x 30 minute lessons at the same time every day of the course with the same tutor and in the same group of 3 children.

We also run term time leSSonS every day from Monday to Saturday; mornings, afternoons, after school and early evening during term time, for all ages and abilities.

ESTABLISHED 1988 600 SCHOOLS NATIONWIDE

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

March-April 2015

EASTER CAMPS, WORKSHOPS AND COURSES Playball

Easter Holiday Camps

For Ages: 3-8 10am to 1pm on selected dates in Kingston, Richmond and Hampton. Please contact Playball at email addresses below for details.

Playball Sports Camps are great fun. They include a full programme of action including skills, games and activities for all ball sports, parachute and team building games and lots more!

Age-appropriate groups with small coach to pupil ratio. This is a “drop and go” service and children are left at the camp for the morning.

Contacts: Richmond/Barnes/ Twickenham: Bonny at richmond.playball@gmail.com Kingston: Bonny at kingston.playball@gmail.com Hampton: Kay Gillespie 020 8123 9190 playball.kay@gmail.com www.playballkids.com

Teddy Tennis

Canbury Gardens Easter Camps

Supercamps

Multi-Activity Easter Camps

For Ages: 4-14 30 Mar to 2 April & 7 Apr to 10 Apr (9am to 5pm) in Kingston and Thames Ditton Fun multi-activity camps from

this established holiday camp provider. Long days available from 8am to 6pm. £45 per day or £144 per week with additional £3 per hour for extended days.

Contact: 01235 467300 www.supercamps.co.uk

For Ages: 3-7 30 Mar to 10 April (Mon-Fri 9am-9:45am (3-5 years) & 10am-12pm (5-7 years) in Kingston A FUN way to encourage children to get active and learn to play tennis, this programme works by combining music, pictures and teddy bear stories into a totally

interactive learning adventure that children love. Teddy Tennis is featured in over 60 schools and nurseries throughout South West London. The camps will feature new, fun, enjoyable games that will enable your children to learn tennis the best way possible.

Contact: Charlie Pollard 08456 431173/07966 005008 bookings@teddytennis.com or charlie.p@teddytennis.com www.teddytennis.com

BABY & CHILD DEVELOPMENT Gymboree Play and Music For Ages: 0-5 years For dates, please contact Gymboree Surbiton Easter Eggstravaganza parties and an Easter themed Theatre Arts Workshop on offer, both open to non-members!

Contact: Katie Johnson Surbiton@gymboree-uk.com 020 3609 8007 www.gymboree-uk.com/f/surbiton

Teddy Tennis Easter Camp Fun and exciting tennis classes for children

Canbury Gardens, Kingston 30 March-10 April 9am-9:45am (2-3 years) 10am-12pm (3-5 years)

The UK's Premier Youth Football Development programme for, 7-17 years old, that offers an un-rivalled level of support, both on and off the training field.

Contact us today to book a FREE trial session for your son or daughter...

Tel: 020 3544 2284 Mob: 07947 121213

Web: coerver.co.uk/westlondon Email: westlondon@coerver.co.uk

UK’s no.1 for childcare during the school holidays

Where the action never stops Monday-Friday • 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Activities for boys and girls ages 4-14 Rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in 2014

Call 0845 643 1173 or email booking@teddytennis.com March-April 20155

01235 467300 www.supercamps.co.uk www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

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classes, clubs activities

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sport

Footie for your Tot It’s Wizard!

By Linda Stone, Editor

31/05/2013 FREE TASTER SESSION

BDA Advert_v5.indd 1

Get your kids ready for sport!

• Catching and throwing • Improve movement skills • Loads of ball games • Fun for children from 18 months

One of the things I love about my job is talking to lots of parents who work with kids and are passionate about what they do. So often, these parents abandoned very different careers after having children, generally in order to follow their dreams and to work in a more family-friendly way. This couldn’t be more true of Andy Scates, proprietor of successful local kids football programs, Footie Tots and Footie Wizards for children ages 2.5 to 8 years.

Andy has spent the last nine years making Footie Tots and Footie Wizards the successful brands they are today. Prior to this, he worked in the City for 15 years, so his career move was literally life-changing. “It couldn’t be more 18:47 different from the work I used to do” Andy laughs.

Footie Tots provides young children with an introduction to the world of fitness and football, and teaches basic ball skills, whilst kids enjoy lots of goals and fun along the way. Andy runs classes in venues in Twickenham, Teddington and Hampton, with another coach running sessions in Thames Ditton. Footie Tots teaches basic skills – including kicking goals – to children ages 2.5 to 5 years, and Footie Wizards develops the skills of the 5 to 8 year old age group. “Small children (including plenty of girls) love being

Thames Ditton & Surbiton call 020 8972 9223 or email roz@catch-a-balls.co.uk Kington, Richmond, Twickenham, Teddington, Hampton call 020 8398 3034 or email heather @catch-a-balls.co.uk

www.catch-a-balls.co.uk 30

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk 55mm x 90mm

Families Upon Thames Magazine

introduced to the idea of team work and learn new football skills they can practice at home” reports Andy.

I’m always curious about whether you can really teach football skills to pre-schoolers, but Andy convinces me. “It’s a great age to start” he says.“It really builds a child’s stability, agility and co-ordination and, as soon as these things reach a certain developmental point, they are ready to start kicking goals. We also introduce matches during the coaching sessions too, with competitive games kicking in when a child reaches around the age of 7.”

A child is more likely to enjoy a sports programme if he or she is treated as an individual with specific needs, skills and learning style. Children also need to be given merit for their ability and feel included at all times. This is where the motivation and ability of the class provider is key. When Andy says Footie Tots is unique because he genuinely works at the pace and ability of each child, I really believe him. Why? Because he clearly understands and adores kids! “I am a father of three children and my two sons actively play football” says Andy. “So I’m naturally very comfortable talking to, being with and coaching children.” Andy lives locally and his children go to school in the area, which gives him lots in common with the many parents he meets.

It is also abundantly clear that Andy is dedicated to football and takes enormous pleasure in seeing the children he coaches develop. “I really enjoy seeing boys and girls flourish” he says “it’s enormously rewarding.”

Andy is also Head Coach at Esher Football Club and many of his Tots and Wizards progress into teams there or join local football clubs. Others progress into professional Academies with which Andy has a number of links.

For more information on Footie Tots and Footie Wizards, see listing on page 35 or visit www.footie-tots.co.uk March-April 2015

classes, clubs activities

&

Why Learning Ball Skills Early sport Makes Children More Confident

By Heather Horler

Research* shows that children who develop good sporting skills enjoy sport more and are more active than those who don’t acquire these skills. This is key to their long term physical and mental health, as well as helping them develop life skills (like sportsmanship, and controlling aggression), and reducing adolescent social problems. However, is there good justification for pre-school children to be taught ball-handling and movement skills? Does it help their confidence in sport later in life?

Children can learn most of the fundamental movement skills, including running, jumping, hopping, skipping, kicking, catching and throwing by the age of 8. So the ‘window of opportunity’ for developing these skills occurs prior to this age. These fundamental movement skills lay the foundation for many sports techniques. For example, learning to throw overarm forms the basis for bowling a cricket ball or serving in tennis. These basic skills are the foundation for future enjoyment of sport and without them, there is a barrier.

Many of us can remember with dread not being able to catch balls consistently and the resultant fear that school team sports instilled. However, if children can reach middle primary school age armed with good fundamental movement skills, they are far less likely to suffer confidence problems.

They are also less likely to abandon sport during the confidence-challenging period of adolescence, and more likely to achieve a higher fitness level and go on to lead a more active lifestyle.

The development of high level fundamental movement skills is not innate.

Children need early instruction using appropriate activities and equipment, plenty of encouragement and regular practice in a fun environment.

Local ball skills classes such as Catch-a-Balls offer the perfect opportunity and are designed to develop critical movement, racquet and ball-handling skills in young children and enable them to go on to enjoy the sport of their choice.

March-April 2015

FOOTIE TOTS

Welcome to the world of fitness and football for 2.5 to 5 year olds Teaching basic ball skills, scoring lots of goals and having FUN!

FOOTIE WIZARDS For children ages 5 to 8

Hampton, Teddington, Twickenham, Richmond, Feltham and Hounslow, ALL CLASSES call 07931 707720 HELD INDOORS andy@footie-tots.co.uk FOOTBALL PARTIES AVAILABLE

Esher, Molesey, Thames Ditton, Walton, Kingston and Surbiton, call 07828 629531

MUSIC LESSONS in RICHMOND !

Classes are for children ages 18 months to school age and are held in Twickenham, Richmond, Hampton, Teddington, Kingston, Claygate, Surbiton and Thames Ditton.

For further information, see our listing on page 34, and book a FREE TRIAL by visiting www.catch-a-balls.co.uk.

Sources Fundamental movement skill competence among 10-11 year old children: Year 2 PEPASS Physical Activity Project, August 2010, Dr Lawrence Foweather Physical Activity Research Officer Liverpool John Moores University The effect of interventions on fundamental movement skills, physical activity and psychological well-being among children, 2010. Dr Lawrence Foweather.

Does weight status influence associations between children’s fundamental movement skills and physical activity? 2008.

Hume, C., Okely, A., Bagley, S., Telford, A., Booth, M., Crawford, D., et al.

The relationship between motor proficiency and physical activity in children, 2006. Wrotniak, B. H., Epstein, L. H., Dorn, J. M., Jones, K. E., & Kondilis, V. A.

Lessons, Holiday-Camps, Courses & Clubs for all ages, including .....

Ukulele & Piano

for pre-school & primary ages with TARA

Singing Tuition

kids-clubs, workshops & vocal coaching with OLGA

Group Guitar, Keybds, Drums Uke, Recorders. Theory & Fun 5-8 yr olds with JAMES ‘Mozo’ RITZ MUSIC & TUITION CENTRE

88 SHEEN RD, RICHMOND TEL: 020 8332-1488 -

WWW.RITZMUSIC.CO.UK

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

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classes, clubs activities

&

sport

GoFest is Good for You!

It’s March and Spring is officially here! This means we can dare to look forward to long, hopefully sunny, summer days when we can really get out and about and active with the kids. At this point, your thoughts may even have turned to the long summer holidays and the best options for great family days out that will keep the kids stimulated and entertained – and hopefully offer some fun for parents too!

If so, then you have to make a date with GoFest, the UK’s unique three day family festival of sport, fitness, dance and health, taking place right on our doorsteps.

GoFest is THE fun, affordable opportunity for the whole family to try out lots of new sports and

By Linda Stone, Editor

healthy activities and to have a great time as a family.

Taking place on 10 to 12 July at

Surrey Sports Park in Guildford, an action-packed and fun-filled weekend is guaranteed, with 75

activities to try, hundreds of FREE coaching sessions with legendary teams such as Harlequins and Surrey Storm, live music and chill out areas. There will also be numerous specialist zones including GoBike, GoCompete, GoSplash, GoChill, GoKids and GoStrut offering plenty of activities and entertainment for the whole family. What’s more, nearby camping facilities mean the fun doesn’t have to stop when the festival does.

Tickets for GoFest are on sale now with prices starting at just £20 per child, £26 per adult and £79 for a family of five. Make sure you visit www.gofest.co.uk and start getting excited about summer!

Use It and Improve It! Kiddikicks Promises Fun Futsal-Style Football this Summer!

By Linda Stone, Editor

outdoor environment – all in time for the new football season in September 2015!.

These 90 minute sessions will offer the type of football coaching aimed at making a difference to the skill of girls and boys in a match play situation. Sessions will include 60 minutes of Futsal-style

Popular kid’s football franchise, Kiddikicks, has something special planned for the football off-season this year. Between April and August, children ages 7 to 10 years will have the opportunity to participate in

Match Play outdoors and 30 minutes of skills training. There will also be the opportunity for children to play in tournaments.

The timetable will be available when booking opens this month, so check www. kiddikicks.co.uk for more details!

special Match Play sessions in Sheen, Richmond and Chiswick.

The sessions are for kids who are used to playing matches and want to develop their ball control and composure on the ball using a Futsal-based approach in an

Bocketts Farm Park 28th Mar - 12th Apr 2015

EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA FANTASTIC FAMILY FUN THIS SPRING!

WE’RE LAMBING! Hundreds of baby lambs due Meet the Shepherd

Easter Egg Hunt Trail

Masses of Indoor and Outdoor Play

BANSTEAD AND CLAYGATE E: banstead.claygate@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01932 223 309

OVER

300

KINGSTON AND SURBITON E: kingston.surbiton@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 0208 224 3971

BABY LAMBS

OXSHOTT, LEATHERHEAD AND DORKING E: leatherhead.dorking@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01483 841 303

DUE

PLUS

Animal handling, goat milking, tractor rides, pony rides and pig racing daily

www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

#

SPECIAL

OFFER 32

D AR AW WI NN ING !

RICHMOND, TWICKENHAM AND TEDDINGTON E: kew.teddington@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 0208 847 4031 WEYBRIDGE, COBHAM AND MOLESEY E: weybridge.cobham@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 0208 224 0096

£1 OFF full price farm entry per person

(max 5 people) valid from 1st – 27th March 2015.

Only with this voucher.

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

FM

March-April 2015

ART & CRAFT CERAMICA Ages: All An ideal place for a get-together, this bright, cosy, unique, ‘paint your own ceramic’ studio brings out the artist in everyone! Services include studio painting sessions, annual membership scheme, gift vouchers, baby hand and foot print sessions, birthday parties, evening painting sessions for adults, off-site functions, ‘take home’ packs and commissions.

In: Claygate Contact: Hannah Young 01372 462447 www.ceramica-claygate.co.uk CERAMICS CAFÉ KEW Ages: All Children have the opportunity to create something unique. Starting with a plain white bisque shape, they paint on their design using ceramic under-glazes, it is then fired in the kiln, and their piece is ready for collection within 2 to 4 days.

Open Tuesday to Sunday, Mondays on Bank Holidays/half terms.

In: Kew Contact: Joanna Wronka 020 8332 6661 www.ceramicscafe.com

BABY & CHILD DEVELOPMENT

COOKERY

NEW THE CAKE BOX SUGARCRAFT CLASSES, WORKSHOPS AND PARTIES For Ages: All Classes and workshops for all ages and abilities in this pretty, village cake shop.

Including Sticky Fingers Pre-School Club every Wednesday morning and afternoon, family workshops in school holidays (1 adult + max 2 children) and adult classes. Plus advice on making/ decorating cakes, buying tools or

March-April 2015

&

ordering a bespoke cake.

In: Hampton Contact: Joanna Buckmaster 020 8941 8333 joanna@thecakeboxhampton.co.uk www.thecakeboxhampton.co.uk SASSY STIRRERS Ages: 4-12 Cooking parties for birthdays, Saturday Cooking Club, after school and lunch time cooking classes in local schools and holiday workshops. Lots of bowl licking fun with treats and recipes to take home.

In: Kingston, South West London and Surrey areas Contact: Susan 07789 792676 info@sassystirrers.com www.sassystirrers.com

DANCE

BALLET BUGS For Ages: 18mths-5yrs A new and exciting, ballet-based, song and dance class, with classes designed for children and parents to enjoy together and to introduce your child to the world of ballet in a fun, caring and positive environment. Fun, interactive dances, performed to popular children’s music, nursery rhymes and classical music and props including dance scarves, maracas, tap sticks, and ribbon wands. Specifically designed to help improve coordination, balance, rhythm, confidence, social skills, discipline, body awareness, posture, fitness, physical self-control, colour recognition, motor skills, concentration and memory. First Class FREE! In: East Molesey Contact: Miss Charlotte 07889 621207 balletbugs@outlook.com BROOKS DANCE ACADEMY INTRODUCING PETITE POINTES BALLET Ages: 2.5-7 A captivating introduction to classical ballet based on much-loved children’s stories, such as The Three Little Pigs, Goldilocks and Jack and the Beanstalk.

Familiar repetitive rhymes and creative imagery make classes easy to follow.

Parents and carers are encouraged to join in to help younger children feel comfortable. RAD syllabus work interweaved through the innovative and unique curriculum. Classes on Saturdays from 9.30am-12.30pm for ages 2.5-7yrs, including RAD Pre-Primary (4-5yrs) RAD Primary (5-6yrs) and RAD Grade 1 (6-7yrs) FIRST CLASS FREE! In: Kingston Contact: Laura Brooks 07958 530962 Laura@brooksdanceacademy.co.uk www.brooksdanceacademy.co.uk ELIZABETH JAMES DANCE ACADEMY Ages: 18mths-18yrs Vibrant and imaginative RAD Ballet and IDTA Tap classes and a unique syllabus for pre-schoolers. Melody Movement classes are beautifully designed for 18mths+ and encourage musicality and rhythm.

All classes are carefully crafted to inspire, whilst nurturing talent and confidence.

Pupils can take part in rewarding exam sessions or simply take part for pleasure.

Holiday workshops and FREE TASTER CLASSES available.

In: Richmond and Kew Contact: Suze Bailey 07815 289306 suze@elizabethjamesdanceacademy.co.uk www.elizabethjamesdanceacademy.co.uk JUST IMAGINE BALLET (formerly Twinkle Toes Ballet) Ages: 15mths-10yrs Just Imagine Ballet offers magical ballet classes for girls and boys.

Twinkle Ballet classes (0-5 yrs) are taught affectionately through enchanting stories where children enter a world populated by loveable animals and fairy characters.

Sparkle Ballet (5-10yrs) classes develops classical ballet further while embracing individuality, creativity and performance.

Also: Adult Ballet, Private coaching, holiday camps, birthday parties and NEW day time classes for home-schooled and German School, Boys Only Ballet (4-6yrs & 7-10yrs), SEN and Therapeutic dance and Saturday classes.

In: Richmond, East Sheen, Kew, Twickenham Contact: The Fairy Godmother or Miss Jessica, Principal

07879 521456 info@twinkletoesballet.com www.justimagineballet.com KBS NEW MALDEN Ages: 3-18 Ballet, Tap and Modern Dance. From Nursery ballet, helping to extend imaginative skills and coordination, to vocational levels, giving young dancers the opportunity to study ballet more seriously, KBS develops a child’s love of dance. RAD Ballet curriculum with the option for children to take exams. Tap and Modern Dance classes from age 4-5, following ISTD syllabuses. These exciting lessons develop movement skills as seen on the West End stage and promote creativity and fitness. FREE TASTER SESSION! In: New Malden Contact: Louise Jefferson 07909 139149 kbslouise@btinternet. com www.kingstonballetschool.com KEW ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS Ages: 2.5-Adult Classes include RAD Ballet, ISTD Tap and Modern, Contemporary, LAMDA Drama and a bi-annual school performance.

FREE TRIAL CLASS available.

In: Richmond/Kew Contact: Victoria Maitland 01932 423456 or 07967 341117 kewacademy@hotmail.com www.kewacademydance.co.uk STR DANCE SCHOOL NEW For Ages: 7-15 years Why not give your child the gift of dance? New, fun classes in salsa, tango and rock ‘n’ roll for boys and girls. Be active, make new friends and have fun!

In: Shepperton Contact: Mr Marek 07798 937182 tangomarek@yahoo.com

DRAMA & STORYTELLING

directory

Term Starts: Week Beginning Sat 10 Jan In: East Molesey, Cobham, Ashtead, Walton and Hersham Contact: Phylly Jones 01932 807150 phylly@pyjamadrama.com www.pyjamadrama.com STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS Ages: 4-18 Caters for the varying needs of young performers, whether reserved or budding talents. Classes focus on singing, dancing and drama, rather than rehearsing for an end of term presentation, so that every child has a chance to shine, learn and develop.

In: Chertsey 07725 176102, Cobham 01932 348844, Hinchley Wood 01372 238238, Hounslow 020 8873 7140, Kew 020 8487 1456, New Malden 020 8540 7791, Richmond 020 8332 6741, Staines 01483 235216, Twickenham 020 3700 9127, Weybridge 01932 422664 www.stagecoach.co.uk STEP ON STAGE Ages: 3-21 Encourages young people to reach their maximum potential in a fun and friendly setting, through drama, music, dance and creative movement. Weekly workshops grouped by age with trained teachers, theatre practitioners and education professionals dedicated to making your child’s experience exciting and rewarding. Auditioned youth theatre allows students to perform plays, new writing and musical theatre in local and professional theatres.

In: Hampton Hill and Twickenham

GET SET GO! NEW For Ages: 10 - 13 A 13 week course which prepares a child’s way to secondary school through drama, supporting them to build their confidence, self-esteem and communication skills for a smooth transition.

In: East Molesey Contact: Kate Griffin 0203 489 7412 info@ completelearning.org.uk www.completelearning.org.uk PERFORM Ages: 3mths-12yrs A unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child’s true potential. Small classes and lots of individual attention. This term children will be tiptoeing through the jungle to explore tropical rainforests packed with colourful wild adventures, and meeting Snow the White Tiger, and the cheeky monkey Boo. FREE TRIAL! In: East Sheen, Kew, Kingston, Isleworth, Mortlake, Richmond, Sunbury, Teddington, Twickenham and NEW in Staines!

Contact: Lucy Quick 0845 400 1284 www.perform.org.uk PYJAMA DRAMA! Ages: 10mths-7yrs Sing, dance, pretend and play - where will our imaginations ˘ Come along and join our multi-sensory sign and sing-a-long take us today? One week sessions featuring nursery rhymes, action songs, games and your child might be a jungle stories ˘ Fun and friendly classes ˘ Lots of puppets, props explorer; the next they’ll be zooming to the moon! A and instruments ˘ Suitable for all babies and young children unique fusion of action song, ˘ Singing Hands Songbooks, CDs and DVDs available ˘ game-play and pretending For more information about designed to complement key our baby signing classes, toddler areas of development and sessions or workshops for curricular learning for Early professionals, please Years and KS1. Watch your contact us on: 020 8288 1706 little one’s imagination soar www.singinghands.co.uk and confidence ignite. Sibling and twin discounts available. info@singinghands.co.uk NEW Drama and Play 5 week www.facebook.com/SingingHands class at Sandown Play Café @singinghands in Esher Thurs at 10.30am As featured on BBC Cbeebies ‘Something Special’ & ‘Tikkabilla’ (20mths-3yrs)

Ballet Tap

Modern

Jazz

Signing fun for little ones! ®

GYMBOREE Ages: 0-5 Award winning Play and Learn, Art, Music, and Sensory Play for Babies.

Classes are designed by experts in early childhood development to help young children learn as they play and teach grown-ups fun and interesting ways to engage with them. FREE TRIAL CLASS! In: St Margarets, Surbiton, and Walton (re-located from West Byfleet) Contact: St Margarets 020 8607 9995 Surbiton 020 3609 8007 Walton 01932 221371 www.gymboree-uk.com THE LITTLE GYM Ages: 4mths–12yrs Fun, gymnastics-based, non-competitive development classes, filled with movement, learning and laughter. The age-appropriate curriculum is designed to facilitate on-going skill development and maximum fun. Children progress at their own pace, developing their confidence as they develop new skills.

In: Hampton Hill Contact: Lewis White 020 8977 0099 www.thelittlegym.co.uk SINGING HANDS Ages: Babies and Toddlers Introduction to baby signing through songs, rhymes, stories and games.

Babies have a natural tendency to use gesture (eg. clapping and waving bye-bye). Baby signing builds on these normal patterns of communication.

Toddler Classes also available.

In: East Twickenham, Twickenham, Teddington Contact: Suzanne or Tracy 020 8288 1706 info@singinghands.co.uk www.singinghands.co.uk TUMBLE TOTS Ages: 6 months-school age Active physical play programme for five different age groups. Gymbabes for 6 months to walking, followed

by Tumble Tots. Programmes develop not only agility, balance, co-ordination and climbing skills, but also essential listening and language skills.

In: Twickenham, Kew, and NEW in Ham! Contact: Charli Gallagher 020 8948 0307 charli.gallagher@tumbletots.com www.tumbletots.com/richmond

classes, clubs activities

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33

classes, clubs activities

&

directory

Contact: Emma-Louise Tinniswood 020 8408 0633/07973 900196 www.steponstageacademy.co.uk

MUSIC

CLASSES AT RITZ MUSIC AND TUITION CENTRE IN RICHMOND www.ritzmusic.co.uk COLOURSTRINGS Ages: 6mths-3yrs A long-established and respected Music Education method for very young children.

Develops each child’s innate musicality.

Contact: Lyn Feldschreiber 020 8948 2066 harryhare123@aol.com MOZO ISLAND MUSIC EXPLORERS AFTER SCHOOL BEGINNERS CLUB Ages: 5-8 approx Discover musical instruments and basic theory on a tropical adventure! Enjoy guitar, keyboard, ukulele, recorder, singing, drumming, as well as art.

Solve puzzles, follow a treasure map, win prizes. A unique opportunity to try a range of instruments without the restrictions of individual lessons.

Helps kids develop social skills and musical awareness in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Contact: James Tucker 07899 811703 mozoisland@gmail.com mozoislandmusicschool.blogspot.co.uk MUSIC THEORY WIZARDS Ages: All ABRSM, Trinity/Guildhall, GCSE, AS/A Level, Diploma. 1 hour classes Contact: Paul or James 07899 811703

richmond@ritzmusic.co.uk www.ritzmusic.co.uk RITZ KIDS AFTER SCHOOL SINGING CLUB Ages: 7-12 approx Fun singing group run by professional music and vocal coaches. Vocal warm ups, performance, microphone technique, confidence building and loads of fun!

Contact: Olga Matylda 07428 775848 RITZ KIDS BAND Ages: 7-12 approx Ritz Music’s very own school of rock! If you are a budding musician or singer, bring along your instrument(s) and jam and play in a band with kids your own age. Drop in but booking required if instrument needed.

Contact: Tara Maysey 07740 443694 taramaysey@gmail.com www.taramaysey.com SING, STRUM AND DRUM PRE-SCHOOL UKULELE & UKULELE GROUPS FOR PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN For Ages: 3-5 yrs (Pre-School), 5-8 and 9-12 (Primary) Ukuleles can be borrowed/rented or bring along your own. Pre-school classes include well-known nursery rhymes and songs to encourage rhythm, tone, listening and musicality. Max 10 per class. Primary classes look at rhythm, basic theory and chords. Children play favourite pop songs and work towards an end of term performance.

TARA’S MUSIC MAGIC Ages: 0-4 approx Songs, rhythm, instruments and play.

Drop in or book 10 sessions and use at any time Contact: Tara Maysey 07740 443694 tara@tarasmusicmagic.com

For your FREE TRIAL, book online at halfbacks.co.uk/free-trial

JO JINGLES Cobham, Epsom and Leatherhead Ages: 3mths-5yrs Jo Jingles provides fun, 45 minute music, singing and movement classes which teach children to play percussion instruments expressively, sing songs and find the rhythm to move and dance.

Age-specific classes are tailor-made to engage event the youngest children. Classes encourage hand-eye co-ordination, and help children learn social skills and make friends, as well as encouraging their physical, mental and emotional development. Children play two age-specific percussion instruments each week. No joining fees! FREE TRIALl! In: Cobham, Epsom, Fetcham (near Leatherhead) Contact: Viv Hunt 07751 438943 vivhjojingles@aol.com www.jojingles.com/epsom2leatherhead MONKEY MUSIC Ages: 3 mths-4.5yrs Award-winning preschool music classes for babies and children. Through a four stage curriculum in age appropriate classes, children will develop a lifetime love for music. Book a FREE CLASS to experience all the fun yourselves!

In: Kingston and Surbiton 020 8224 3971, Banstead, Claygate and Esher 01932 223309, Weybridge, Cobham, Hersham, Walton and Molesey 020 8224 0096, Kew, Richmond, Twickenham and Teddington 020 8847 4031 www. monkeymusic.co.uk TINY TUNES MUSIC AND DANCE PAY AS YOU GO CLASSES Ages: 3mths-5yrs Hide under the parachute, wave the pom poms, rattle the shakers, dance with bubbles and sing along! As well as TT Ad A5 land 10 aw:Layout 1 5/8/10 09:44 Page 1

the all-time favourite rhymes and songs, Tiny Tunes gets the little ones dancing to some of the well-known pop classics!

Parties available including party games, face painting and balloon modelling.

In: Wimbledon, Richmond, Twickenham, Isleworth, Whitton, Teddington, Hampton Hill, Barnes, Thames Ditton, Surbiton, Isleworth, Whitton, Epsom, Cobham, Weybridge, Ascot, Staines, Guildford, Dorking and Reigate. NEW in Wimbledon, St Margaret’s, New Malden and Kingston.

Contact: info@tinytuneslive.com 07977 585020 www.tinytuneslive.com

SPORT

CATCH-A-BALLS Age: 18 months - school age Fun ball game-based activities that develop skills such as rolling, throwing, catching and using bats. Indoor venues so kids stay warm and dry and get full enjoyment. New games and props each term to ensure the children are kept interested and experience a wide range of skills, preparing them for a wide range of sports. Club BOING: 18 mths-2yrs; Club BOUNCE: 2.5-3.5yrs; Club CATCH: 3.5 to school age. Parents/ carers join the fun in Club BOING and Club BOUNCE. Parents can observe in Club CATCH. FREE TASTER SESSION In: Claygate, Kingston, Richmond, Teddington, Thames Ditton, Twickenham and Hampton Contact: Heather for Kingston, Richmond, Twickenham, Claygate, Hampton & Teddington 020 8398 3034 contact@catch-a-balls.co.uk Roz for Thames Ditton and Surbiton 020 8972 9223 roz@catch-a-balls.co.uk www.catch-a-balls.co.uk

NOW ALSO ON

Established

1979

SUNDAY’S

The springboard to confidence for your child

Halfbacks rugby is a non-contact specific play session for girls and boys aged 2 - 7 in a fun and friendly atmosphere.

SATURDAY MORNINGS 10AM - 12 | SUNDAY MORNINGS 9AM - 11AM MARBLE HILL PARK, TWICKENHAM, RICHMOND ROAD, TW1 2NL

halfbacks.co.uk | info@halfbacks.co.uk | 01932 808698

Help your child develop the vital skills and confidence needed for life with Tumble Tots, Britain's leading National Active Physical Play Programme • Using specifically designed equipment your child will learn agility, balance, climbing and co-ordination skills appropriate to their age • A structured programme designed to build self confidence and develop essential listening and language skills • Supervised by trained staff in a fun and caring environment Put your child's energy to good use- give them a headstart by finding out about Tumble Tots today!

To book your trial, please call 0208 948 0307 or visit www.tumbletots.com/richmond

WEEKLY

LOCAL

CLASSES

with Water Babies, the UK’s leading baby swim school

3 Fully qualified, world class instructors 3 Award-winning programme teaches babies from birth 3 Teaching you to teach your baby to swim 3 Saving lives through water confidence and safety skills To join in the fun call

34

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

01932 227 428

classes held. . .

Addlestone, Shepperton, Kingston, Chessington, Morden, Richmond & Cobham

waterbabies.co.uk March-April 2015

classes, clubs activities

&

offered. FREE TRIAL! NEW Futsal-style COERVER® FOOTBALL COACHING FIRST Off Season Match Play Sessions SKILLS PROGRAM & PERFORMANCE starting March in Sheen, Richmond and ACADEMY Ages: First Skills 5-7 and Performance Chiswick!

Academy 8-16 In: East Molesey, North Kingston, Football fundamentals in First Skills Weybridge, Twickenham, Whitton, program. Then The Performance Isleworth, Feltham, Hampton, Richmond, Academy, the UK’s Premier Player Sheen, Brentford Development programme for young Contact: East Molesey, Weybridge and footballers (boys & girls), offering an Kingston Jen 020 3560 9256 unrivalled level of support, both on and jen@kiddikicks.co.uk; off the training field. 90 minute FREE Twickenham, Whitton, Isleworth, TRIAL SESSION! Feltham and Hampton In: Kingston and Hounslow 020 7937 7965 twix@kiddikicks.co.uk; Contact: Amit Sohal Richmond, Sheen, Brentford 020 3544 2284 Sarah 020 7937 7965 westlondon@coerver.co.uk sarah@kiddikicks.co.uk www.coerver.co.uk/westlondon www.kiddikicks.co.uk www.nwsurrey.kiddikicks.co.uk FOOTIE TOTS Ages: Footie Tots 2.5-5 www.kiddikicks.co.uk/twickenham Footie Wizards 5-11 PLAYBALL An introduction to the world of fitness Ages: 2-8 and football with lots of goal scoring Prepare your child for life, with this and fun along the way! Classes comprehensive sport and movement encourage the children to lead an based programme. Easter Camps active and healthy lifestyle from a booking now! Parties available. young age. All classes indoors.

In: Hampton, Richmond, Barnes, St In: Hampton, Twickenham, Teddington, Margarets, Roehampton, Kingston Richmond, Feltham, Hounslow Contact: Hampton: Contact: Andy Scates 07931 707720 playball.kay@gmail.com; In: Thames Ditton, Esher, Molesey, Richmond/St Margarets: Walton, Kingston and Surbiton richmond.playball@gmail.com; Contact: 07828 629531 Kingston: kingston.playball@gmail.com; www.footie-tots.co.uk Barnes/Roehampton: barnes.playball@gmail.com HALFBACKS RUGBY Ages: 2 to 7 www.playballuk.com A fun and exciting new concept RUGBYTOTS designed to teach children the values of Age: 2-7 gramme for 2-5 year o lds. is pro rugby union, enabling them to develop weekly play program e tennenthusiastic, cFun, a n a their confidence, physical and social which uses Rugby specific skills to aid p u g n i v r e skills, and ultimately be kids!SCoaches the development of young children. are at the top of their game providing The program develops physical and innovative and outstanding rugby social attributes and teaches basic games every week. FREE TRIAL! rugby skills including running with the In: Twickenham (Marble Hill Park) ball, kicking, catching and scoring a Contact: Dave Smith 01932 808698 try. Age-appropriate classes and highly Learn info@halfbacks.co.uk trained coaches whotennis, get thehave best out www.halfbacks.co.uk of the children in a safe, organised, We provide a fun fun and meet friendly environment.

KIDDIKICKS FOOTBALL CLASSES and safe environment for Ages: 18mths-9yrs In: Twickenham, Barnes, newPutney, friends.

Kiddikicks coaches children real skills intoa learn Surbiton, Richmond and COMING SOON preschool super-fun environment. Encouraging in Hampton! tennis, getthrough actively involved Contact: Lorna Belchambers a healthy lifestyle participation inand sportbuild whilsttheir developing a love 0845 481 6444 confidence for the beautiful game! Parties also www.rugbytots.co.uk Indoor

during the early years of development.

Learn your ABCs...

TOP SPIN MONKEYS Age: 2-6 This tennis programme offers parents/ carers and children the chance to interact through learning sport skills.

Its coaching develops a child’s ABCs - Agility, Balance and Co-ordination, as well as improving speed. Fun, yet structured sessions for boys and girls at indoor locations. NEW locations coming after Easter!

In: Cobham, Epsom, Weybridge, East Horsley.

Contact: Andy 07779 130596 andy@topspinmonkeys.co.uk www.topspinmonkeys.co.uk TRY TIME KIDS’ RUGBY Age: 2-7 Fun, rugby centred activities that will develop skills and confidence and increase enjoyment of sport. FREE TRIAL! In: Richmond Contact: Danielle Dyer 01252 794150 sales@trytimekidsrugby.com www.trytimekidsrugby.com

SWIMMING

PK SWIM SCHOOL Ages: 2-18 Swimming lessons for all abilities/ ages. Fun and engaging classes for non-swimmers, as well as taxing for stroke improvers.

In: Cobham Contact: Paul Furness 07915 510720/07939 232731 info@pkswimschool.co.uk www.pkswimschool.co.uk SPRINGBOARD SWIMMERS Age: 3+ Top quality, friendly and professional weekly swimming lessons and holiday courses for non-swimmers and beginners, which teach children to

directory

swim well and not just pass badges.

Small groups of 3 children and excellent teachers. Mother and Baby and Toddler groups through to teenager squads and all abilities in between.

In: Twickenham, Teddington, Hampton Contact: Karen Duane 020 8255 7455 admin@springboardswimmers.com www.springboardswimmers.com WATER BABIES Age: 0-4.5 Classes progress seamlessly through the program, with children having great fun whilst building confidence and independence in the water. Most toddlers can swim short distances by around the age of 2, and have mastered vital skills including how to turn around and hold on and, where possible, how to clamber out of the pool.

In: Addlestone, Shepperton, Kingston, Chessington, Cobham, Richmond and Morden Contact: Melissa Holt 01932 227428 www.waterbabies.co.uk

TRAVEL

LETTERS FROM RILEY Ages: 6-10 A monthly letter and activity pack delivered to you from Riley as he travels the world. The programme has been developed to allow little ones to travel the world, by powering up their imaginations and without leaving the comfort of their own home. www.lettersfromriley.com

venues in Surrey.

gramme forr22-55yyeeaarrooldlds. nnis pprroogramme fo -6 s. accee tteennis n a a p n u a Agility...

Balance...

Coordination SSeerrvviinngg up Indoor

Learn tennis, have fun, make friends

venues in Surrey.

For a free trial session: Learn visit us your at: www.topspinmonkeys.co.uk or call Andy Low on 07779 130596.

Coordination...

Balance...

Agility...

ABCs...

A Driving Experience An IDEAL idealBIRTHDAY birthday treat AN TREAT that’s bothBOTH funFUN & safe THAT’S & SAFE Age

Group e Ag oup Gr4-8Yrs 4-8 Yrs

Free trial session 07779 130596 visit www.topspinmonkeys.co.uk

Classes in Epsom, Cobham, Weybridge and East Horsley.

Classes at all levels RAD Ballet ISTD Modern & Tap, Street-dance /Hip-Hop, LAMDA Drama

Follow us on

FollowNEAR us on YOU AVAILABLE AT Available AtAAVENUE TEL:YOU 01932 770770 venue NEAR

www.kiddikarts.co.uk

Tel: 01932 770770

www.kiddikarts.co.uk

at United Church Hall, Raleigh Rd, Richmond

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK A FREE TRIAL CLASS SEE THE WEBSITE

www.kewacademydance.co.uk or

call 01932 423456 or 07967 341117

March-April 2015

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

35

it’s

party time

Hiring a Venue for Your Child’s Party

By Linda Stone, Editor

These days birthday parties tend to involve all the children in a child’s school class or nursery. This means a shift away from hosting parties at home, with many parents now looking for bigger venues, such as church halls or community centres.

Consequently, venues can be in demand, and it’s advisable to start checking availability a good three months before your child’s birthday, if you want to get the date and time you need.

When you book a venue, there are some obvious questions you should ask, such as: ✿ minimum and maximum number of children? ✿ are there kitchen facilities? ✿ can you hire a DJ or entertainment? ✿ can you decorate the room? ✿ what time can you have access to the room? ✿ what time do you need to vacate?

birthday parties, so send out invitations a good six weeks in advance. Ask for an RSVP by a certain date and confirmation of special dietary requirements. Include all your contact details including name, mobile and email but expect to have to chase for responses! Don’t forget to give the venue address, post code and

Do make sure you get a contact name and details and make sure everything is confirmed in writing. The last thing you want is a double booking on party day!

Around two months before the party, decide on a theme. If you wish to hire an entertainer, you’ll need to book one. If you want to order a birthday cake, you’ll also need to contact some suppliers and look at samples or images of their cakes. If you are having a name iced on the cake, make sure the supplier has the correct spelling!

Think about the timing of the party and what type of meal you will provide.

Unfortunately, even if you hold the party in the middle of the afternoon, the birthday tea is a big part of the excitement for younger children, so it’s unlikely you’ll get away without serving one.

If you decide to brave it and just offer snacks, do specify this to guests in advance.

If you want to use an outside caterer, ensure it has a Food Hygiene Standards Certificate.

Some caterers will deliver, provide napkins, plates and cups, serve food and tidy up afterwards, so check what is included in the price. If you are to collect food from the caterer, make sure you agree a time and ensure that the caterer can deal with vegetarian options and special requests for those with food allergies.

The diaries of many children are littered with

A travel ling advent

ure

for young explorers Give your child the travel bug from an early age.

tivity thly ac d cra or o d r u to yo ew res cover n 4 Doisuntries & cultu c e m every ti boys r girls & 4 Fune fo 10 ag 5 to

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information about parking.

A week before the party, write a plan of the day, noting when you and any helpers need to do things, as well as a list of things you need to take with you.

Allow for traffic and set off in good time.

Don’t forget matches and a knife to cut the cake!

Maisy’s Children’s Parties

Magical and Memorable Parties for 0-8 years We love to make children’s dreams come true!

Richmond, Teddington, Kingston, SW London & Surrey

Quote FUT for 10% discount in March and April

020 8123 6484/07779 096129 info@maisys-childrens-parties.co.uk www.maisys-childrens-parties.co.uk

Would you like to try something different?

Why not paint your own ceramics?

At Ceramica, we guarantee great fun for all!

Our services include: Children’s birthday parties Baby foot and hand print sessions Evening sessions for adults Annual membership scheme Take home packs & gift vouchers 7 The Parade, Claygate, Esher, KT10 0PD Phone: 01372 462447 Making ceramic painting easy and fun in a creative, enjoyable environment!

www.ceramica-claygate.co.uk

Twitter: @CeramicaEsher Facebook: www.facebook.com/CeramicaClaygate

March-April 2015

what’s on LOCAL THEATRE

POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB Booking: 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com YEN SHEN UNTIL 8 MAR The world’s first Cinderella story from China comes to life with puppetry, live music and all the excitement of the Chinese Spring Festival. Ages: 6+ ERROR 404 4-29 MAR Funny, engaging and totally interactive, Error 404 has been created to get children thinking and asking some big questions.

Every performance is different, with ideas and suggestions coming directly from the audience. Ages: 8+ I BELIEVE IN UNICORNS 12-15 MAR Brings alive the excitement of books and is a moving testament to the value of stories and the imagination. Ages: 6-12 MY FATHER AND OTHER SUPERHEROES 19-22 MAR This is one man’s moving story about fatherhood, loss, heroes and hope. Ages: 8+ OPERATION MAGIC CARPET 3 APR -24 MAY A magical play about exploring your culture and knowing where you come from - so you know where you’re going. Ages: 6-11 WHATEVER THE WEATHER 8-19 APR An imaginative show set in the charming world of a traditional Alpine weather house. Ages: 3-6 MY FRIEND MOLE 24-26 APR A gentle tale about imagination and a very special friendship, using live music and storytelling.

Ages: 3-6 SHH… BANG 1-3 MAY A playful dance-theatre performance exploring silence and noise. Ages: 3-6 RIVERHOUSE ARTS CENTRE Manor Rd, Walton KT12 2NZ Box Office: 01932 253354 www.riverhousebarn.co.uk SIGNOR BAFFO’S RESTAURANT 4 APR An interactive children’s show, Signor Baffo opens his cafe to children. Expect plates-full of fun, with generous helpings of silliness, mischief and adventure.

Ages: 5+ March-April 2015

EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES WATERMANS 40 High Street, Brentford TW8 0DS 020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk THE DREAM EATER 8 MAR An exhilarating production combining the skills of British and Korean artists with storytelling, physical theatre, live music, puppetry and exuberant eastern and western humour. Ages: 4+ UP IN THE ATTIC 15 MAR A magical, melodious and interactive tale created through enchanting music and puppetry.

Ages: 3-6 YEH SHEN – THE CHINESE CINDERELLA 22 MAR A Chinese version of a popular fairy tale fusing Beijing opera, puppetry and dance. Ages: 5+ Art ‘n’ Craft Family Workshop at 2pm and 4pm (Tickets £3 and booking required).

SHH…BANG! 29 MAR An interactive work for young audiences using strong visuals physical movement and music.

Ages: 3+ MRS MCMOON’S TEA PARTY 12 APR You are invited to an entertaining tea party hosted by Mrs McMoon.

There will be plenty of mischief, surprise and laughter as she tells stories of exploring the world and daring adventures. Ages: 3-6 SHOE KANGAROO AND THE BIG BAD BOOT 19 APR A fantastical journey to the island of lost shoes with clowning, mime and beautifully crafted puppets. Ages: 4-7 ONE FINGER, ONE THUMB 26 APR A wonderful interactive adaptation of the fairy-tale Tom Thumb with a modern twist created with young children in mind. Ages: 3-5 THE VERA FLETCHER HALL 4 Embercourt Rd, Thames Ditton KT7 0LQ 0844 884 8832 www.verafletcherhall.co.uk MERLIN, THE SWORD IN THE STONE 21 MAR A family participation musical based on the legend of the young knight Arthur, who, guided by Merlin the Wizard, draws the sword from the stone to become king. Ages: 5-11 SHACKLETON’S CAT 27 MAR Eight singers, musicians and puppeteers tell the story of Ernest Shackleton’s voyage to Antarctica 100 years ago and how the crew struggled to survive when the ship was destroyed by ice. Ages: 7-11

EVERY WEEKEND UNTIL 22 MAR AND FROM 18 APR TO 17 MAY FAMILY WEEKEND ACTIVITIES AT LONDON WETLAND CENTRE Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes SW13 9WT Times: 10am-4pm Cost: FREE with Normal admission Spot the first signs of spring and see which birds have returned from their winter ‘holiday.’ Enjoy a nature walk and spring nature crafts.

0208 409 4400 www.wwt.org.uk DAILY UNTIL 8 MAR BUTTERFLIES IN THE GLASSHOUSE AT RHS GARDEN WISLEY Woking GU23 6QB Time: Mon-Fri 10.30am-3.30pm Weekends 9.30am to 3.30pm Cost: Normal Admission Discover the world of butterflies, their super skills and special senses.

During half term, plant butterflyfriendly flower seeds, create a lovely flapping dragonfly or butterfly from pipe cleaners or a caterpillar hat.

0845 260 9000 www.rhs.org.uk/wisley 5, 12, 14, 19, 26 MAR

TINY EXPLORERS AT HAMPTON COURT PALACE East Molesey KT8 9AU 0844 482 7777 For Ages: 0-4yrs Time: Sessions between 10.30am-3.30pm Cost: £6 per session Through music, movement and messy play, you and your little one will be transported into the fascinating stories of Hampton Court Palace.

0203 166 6646 www.hrp.org.uk 7 MAR AND 4 APR 15 MINUTES OF FUN AT CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT Time: 1.30-3.30pm Cost: FREE Drop-in family craft session.

01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org 13 MAR AND 24 APR CLASSICAL BABIES CONCERT IN TEDDINGTON Landmark Arts Centre, Ferry Rd, TW11 9NN Time: 11-11.45am Cost: Adults £10, babies FREE Enjoy 45 minutes of classical music by professional musicians in a

WHERE ACTIVE FAMILIES UNITE

The UK’s First Family Festival of Sport, Fitness, Dance And Health SURREY SPORTS PARK, GUILDFORD 10 – 12 JULY 2015 Prices from just £20 for Children, £26 for Adults and £79 for Family of 5!

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37

what’s on 01483 424 400 HOUNSLOW URBAN FARM www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesden-lacey Faggs Road, Feltham, TW14 0LZ 31 MAR, 2, 7 AND 9 APR HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES AT For more information, see page 24.

CHERTSEY MUSEUM www.hounslowurbanfarm.co.uk 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey RHS GARDEN WISLEY KT16 8AT Wisley Lane, Wisley, Woking For Ages: 5-12 Time: 11am or 2pm GU23 6QB Cost: £5 For more information, see page 22.

Fun and practical activities relating to the www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley museum collections. Booking required.

29 MAR 01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org STORY CAFE AT RIVERHOUSE BARN 1 APR ARTS CENTRE CREATIVE CHOCOLATE WORKSHOPS AT Manor Road, Walton KT12 2NZ STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE For Ages: 3+ Time: 3pm Cost: £4 (£2 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, under 2s) MOTHER’S DAY TW1 4ST Bring a cushion to this creative 13 TO 15 MAR Time: 11am for Under 5s and 2pm storytelling, themed activity event.

FLORIMANIA AT HAMPTON COURT for Over 5s Cost: £7/£9 PALACE 01932 253354 Young chocolate lovers can make and www.riverhousebarn.co.uk East Molesey KT8 9AU decorate a range of their own chocolate Sessions between 10am-4.30pm 29 MAR TO 1 APR AND 8 TO 11 APR treats to take home. Booking required.

MOVIE MAKER MISSION AT Celebrate Mother’s Day by 020 8744 1241 HAMPTON COURT PALACE experiencing the beautiful King’s www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk East Molesey KT8 9AU Apartments filled with stunning WILD WANDLE AT MORDEN HALL PARK For Ages: 4-7 Cost: FREE with Normal flower arrangements.

Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD Admission 0844 482 7777 www.hrp.org.uk For Ages: 5-11 Time: 10am-1pm Help create a 5 minute film which 15 MAR Cost: Child £2 tells 500 years of Hampton Court FREE ENTRY FOR MOTHERS AT Enjoy river dipping and discover more stories. Create drawings, sound PAINSHILL PARK about the amazing creatures you have Time: 10.30am-6pm. Cost: Free to effects and music which can be used caught. mothers accompanied by children. in the final film.

020 8545 6850 Spend the day with your mother 0844 482 7799 www.hrp.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park in the beautiful landscape garden.

30 MAR TO 1 APR 1 TO 8 APR 01932 868113 www.painshill.co.uk SPRING HOLIDAY CHILDREN’S 50 THINGS TO DO BEFORE 11¾ MOTHER’S DAY POSY MAKING CRAFT ACTIVITIES AT CLAREMONT AT OSTERLEY PARK EASTER HOLIDAYS AT OSTERLEY PARK LANDSCAPE GARDEN Jersey Road, Isleworth TW7 4RB Jersey Road, Isleworth TW7 4RB Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG 28 MAR Time: 12-4pm Cost: FREE with Normal Time: 12-3pm Cost: £2 plus Normal BOUNCING BUNNIES AT Time: 10.30am-12.30pm Cost: £1.50 Admission Admission plus Normal Admission STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE 268 Waldegrave Road, Make a small posy with fresh Easter crafts in the Thatched Cottage. Join in with 50 Things to do before you’re 11¾. Collect a scrapbook, join in an Twickenham, TW1 4ST flowers for mum.

01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org. adventure, then pick up your sticker.

For Ages: 3+ Time: 12.30pm Cost: £2 020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust. uk/claremont-landscape-garden 020 8232 5050 Like the Easter Bunny, your little ones 30 MAR TO 2 APR AND 7 TO 10 APR org.uK/osterley-park www.nationaltrust.org.uk /osterley-park will get a kick out of creating their MOTHER’S DAY FREE ENTRY EASTER HOLIDAY FAMILY ACTIVITIES very own bunny ears followed by 2 APR AT HAM HOUSE AT BROOKLAND’S MUSEUM CRAFT CART AT OSTERLEY PARK the opportunity to hop around and Ham Street, Ham TW10 7RS Brooklands Road, Weybridge Jersey Rd, Isleworth, TW7 4RB explore the gardens. No booking Time: 10am-5pm Cost: Free to KT13 0QN Time: 12-3.30pm Cost: FREE/DONATION required. mothers accompanied by children Time: 10.30am-5pm Cost: FREE with with Normal Admission Enjoy the house and riverside Normal Admission 020 8744 1241 Drop in and get crafty. garden.

For more information, see page 23. www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk 020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk 020 8940 1950 01932 857381 28 MAR TO 12 APR 2 AND 9 APR GIANT EASTER DUCK HUNT AT www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ www.brooklandsmuseum.com CRAFTY THURSDAYS AT LONDON WETLAND CENTRE ham-house 31 MAR AND 7 APR Please find your advertisement for theSEEDLINGS GARDENING CLUB MORDEN HALL PARK Queenof Elizabeth’s Walk, MOTHERING SUNDAY AT below a proof LITTLE Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD Barnes SW13 9WT CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN AT TVE. OSTERLEY PARK September/October 2014 issue (No. Families Time: 10am-1pm Cost: £2 Admission Times: 9.30-5pm Cost:74) Trail of £1 plus Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG Jersey Road, Isleworth TW7 4RB Normal Admission Time: 10 am-5pm Cost: Free to Time: 12-4pm Cost: FREE with Normal to the Park is FREE Drop-in activities inspired by the park Follow the Easter duck trail and mothers with children.

Admission Please IS CORRECT and its wildlife. discover where the missing ducklings Get hands-on in this edible drop-in Treat your mum toCHECK a day out ALL INFORMATION 020 8545 6850 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ are hiding.Win a prize! Create your followed by a tasty treat in the kids gardening session. especially dates, telephone numbers and addresses. morden-hall-park own colourful duckling to take home café.

020 8232 5050 THUMBS UP IT’S THURSDAY IN KINGSTON and join in egg-citing games.

01372 467806 www.nationaltrust. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterleyStorytelling, face painting, craft activities 0208 409 4400 www.wwt.org.uk org.uk/claremont-landscape-garden park and entertainers Any changes need to be EASTER made EGGSTAVAGANZA at this stage. AT T: 01628 627586 throughout the Town FAMILY RANGER CLUB AT MORDEN Centre.

FARM HALL PARK be charged for.

Any further amendmentsBOCKETTS will E: editor@familiestveast.co.uk www.kingstonfirst.co.uk Young St, Leatherhead KT22 9BS Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD For more information, see page 24.

10% discount Time: 1-3pm Cost: Child £4 2 TO 12 APRIL 50 All Saints Avenue, Maidenhead, during Please contact us by return either to amend or approve Test your FAMILY ACTIVITIES AT KEW PALACE your survival skills with the www.bockettsfarm.co.uk Mar/Apr Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, ranger.

Learn how to build dens, cook HOBBLEDOWN advertisement.

Berkshire, SL6 6NA TW9 3AB Horton Ln, Epsom KT19 8PT on a campfire and track wild animals.

Time: 10am-5.30pm Cost: FREE with For more information, Booking required.

Admission to Kew Gardens see page 22.

020 8545 6850 Take part in a range of exciting drop-in ww.hobbledown.com www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ Georgian activities including playing morden-hall-park traditional games, object-handling and 31 MAR TO 9 APR Ltd. making your own fan fit for a princess.

WILD LEARNING AT POLESDEN LACEY 084 4482 7777 Bespoke Agency- Flexible Live-In Domestic Help Great Bookham, near Dorking www.hrp.org.uk/KewPalace RH5 6BD Maternity, Baby & Kids 0-6 - Childcare: Au Pairs, Mother’s Help For Ages: 5-12 3 TO 4 APR - House-keepers Call 0333 800 8085 Surbiton EASTER EGG TRAIL AT CLAREMONT Time: 10.15am-4pm Cost: Child £38 - Elderly: Companions/ Carers Throughout UK 14 Mar LANDSCAPE GARDEN Play, learn and explore all day in safe www.heavenlyaupairs.com info@heavenlyaupairs.com 18 Apr Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG supervised wood. Advance booking.

2-4pm Time: 10.30am-4pm Cost: St Mark’s Normal Admission plus £3 per Church Hall trail “..thank you for all your help in finding H - she is perfect & has revolutionised my life!”

KT6 4LS Original Ceramics - Painted By You Follow the clues around the garden to claim your Cadburys Studio Hours: Teddington Egghead.

Tues-Sat 10am-6pm Saturday 01372 467806 www.

14 Mar Sunday 11am-6pm nationaltrust.org.uk/claremont18 April Closed Mon, except Bank landscape-garden Top sellers 2-4pm Holidays and Half Terms 3 TO 5 APR make over Teddington THE PARTY: 500 YEARS OF £300! Stalls www.ceramicscafe.com Baptist Church sell out weeks HAMPTON COURT PALACE Tel: 020 8332 6661 Church Road in advance.

East Molesey KT8 9AU Book yours TW11 8PF Time: 6.30-9.15pm Cost: Adults 1a Mortlake Terrace, Kew Green now! £22, Child £20, Family £50 Richmond TW9 3DT www.mum2mummarket.co.uk

comfortable, friendly environment.

020 8977 7558 www.classicalbabies.com 13 TO 15 MAR FLORIMANIA AT HAMPTON COURT PALACE East Molesey KT8 9AU Time sessions: 10am-4.30pm Celebrate Mother’s Day by experiencing the beautiful Kings Apartments filled with stunning flower arrangements.

0844 482 7777 www.hrp.org.uk

WED 18 MAR STAR GAZING AT LONDON WETLAND CENTRE Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes SW13 9WT Times: 6.30-8.30pm Cost: £10 per person After a short talk in the theatre, you will be shown some of the wonders of the universe such as Jupiter and its moons, Venus and a galaxy about 10 million light years away. Booking required.

0208 409 4400 www.wwt.org.uk 22 MAR WATER POWER CHALLENGE AT MORDEN HALL PARK Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD Time: 11am-3pm Cost: FREE Design the waterwheel that generates the most electricity on World Water Day. 020 8545 6850 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ morden-hall-park LUCKY DIP DISCO AT RIVERHOUSE BARN ARTS CENTRE Manor Road, Walton KT12 2NZ For Ages: Under 7s Time: 3-5pm Cost: Child £7, Adult £5 Retro Disco for children and families to dance together. Booking required.

01932 253354 www.riverhousebarn.co.uk

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38

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

March-April 2015

what’s on

March-April 2015

current WWI exhibition.

Booking required.

020 8332 1141 www.museumofrichmond.com 8 APR QUACKY RACES AT MORDEN HALL PARK Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD Time: 10am-1pm Cost: Child £1.50 FREE entrance to Park Challenge your friends and family to a rubber duck race down the river Wandle.

020 8545 6850 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hallpark STORYTELLING WORKSHOPS AT STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, TW1 4ST Time: 11am for Under 5s and 2pm for Over 5s Cost: £7/£9 Creative workshops telling stories with craft, including colourful and funny puppets which you will make yourself.

020 8744 1241 www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk 9 APR CRAFT CART AT OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Rd, Isleworth, TW7 4RB Time: 12- 4pm Cost: FREE/DONATION with Normal Admission Drop in and get crafty.

020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley-park 11 APR AWESOME ANIMALS AT STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, TW1 4ST For Ages: 3+ Time: 12.30pm Cost: £2 Come and join in this artistic activity, and create an animal using pompoms and other craft materials.

No booking required.

020 8744 1241 www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk 18 APR NCT EASTER DISCO WITH DIDDI DANCE Winchester Hall, Turks Head Pub, St Margarets, TW1 1LF For Ages: 1-5 Time:10am-12pm.

Cost: £7 per child plus 1 adult. Sibling discount. Children under 6 months FREE with paying toddler.

45 minutes of active disco play with Diddi Dance, during which children can dance to their hearts content. Followed

by Easter Egg Hunt – bring your own baskets! Places are limited. https://ncteasterdisco2015.eventbrite. com 19 APR BIRDSONG WALK AT PAINSHILL PARK For Ages: 12 + Time: 8am-10.30am.

Cost: Normal admission Learn to identify birds by song and by sight.

01932 868113 www.painshill.co.uk LONDON BUS SPRING GATHERING AT BROOKLAND’S MUSEUM Brooklands Road, Weybridge KT13 0QN Time: 10am-5pm Cost: Adult £11, Child £6, Family £34 A fabulous family day out.

01932 857381 www.brooklandsmuseum.com 26 APR SPRING TREE WALK AT OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Road, Isleworth TW7 4RB Time: 12-3.30m Cost: Adult £6, Child £3 Explore Osterley’s amazing trees in Spring.

020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk 30 APR BLUEBELL WALK AT OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Road, Isleworth TW7 4RB Time: 12-3.30m Cost: Adult £6, Child £3 Enjoy a guided walk taking in the beautiful bluebells.

020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk

NEARLY NEW SALES

MUM2MUM www.mum2mummarket.co.uk COBHAM SUN 8 MAR, 2-4PM Cobham Village Hall, Lushington Drive, KT11 2LU SURBITON SAT 14 MAR AND SAT 18 APR, 2-4PM St Marks Church Hall, Surbiton KT6 4LS TEDDINGTON SAT 14 MAR AND SAT 18 APR, 2-4PM Teddington Baptist Church, Church Rd, TW11 8PF ISLEWORTH SAT 28 MAR AND SAT 18 APR, 3-5PM The Blue School, North Road, Isleworth, TW7 6RQ. ESHER SUN 19 APR, 2-4PM King George’s Hall, KT 10 9RA NCT BYFLEET SAT 7 MAR, 2.30-4PM Byfleet Village Hall, 54 High Rd, KT14 7QL TWICKENHAM SAT 7 MAR, 10-11.30am All Hallows Church, Erncroft Way, TW1 1EN

CLAYGATE SUN 22 MAR, 12-2PM Claygate Day Centre, Elm Road, KT10 0JP TOLWORTH SUN 22 MAR, 3-5PM Tolworth Recreation Centre, KT6 7LQ WEYBRIDGE SAT 18 APR, 10-11.30AM Christ The Prince of Peace Parish Hall, KT13 8JD EGHAM SAT 25 APR, 10.30AM-12PM Egham Leisure Centre, TW20 8NL

OTHER

CRUK www.crukgoodasnewsale.org.uk ESHER SAT 25 APR, 1.30-3.30PM Esher College, Thames Ditton, KT7 0JB WALTON TWINS CLUB www.waltontwinsclub.org WALTON SAT 18 APR, 10-11.30AM The Cecil Hepworth Playhouse, KT12 1AU

© National Trust Images. Registered Charity Number 205846.

Celebrate Hampton Court’s birthday by exploring the palace at night to a backdrop of live period music. Then experience a stunning son et lumière show projected on to the south façade of the palace.

0844 482 7777 www.hrp.org.uk 3 TO 6 APR EASTER EGG TRAIL OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Rd, Isleworth, TW7 4RB Time: 11am-4pm Cost: Normal Admission plus £3 per trail Complete the Easter trail and win a Cadbury Egghead.

020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley-park EASTER EGG HUNT AT HAM HOUSE Ham Street, Ham TW10 7RS Time: 10am-4.30pm Cost: Normal Admission plus £3 per trail Family activities including Easter Egg hunt.

020 8940 1950 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-house EASTER EGG TRAIL AT MORDEN HALL PARK Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD For Ages: 5-11 Time: 10am-1pm Cost: £4 FREE entry to Park Follow a trail through the parkland, finishing off with a Cadbury chocolate Easter egg to take home.

020 8545 6850 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ morden-hall-park 3 TO 12 APR WATERCRESS LINE A DAY OUT WITH THOMAS Arlesford, Hampshire, SO24 9JG For more information, see page 24.

4 APR EASTER BONNET PARADE AT CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG Time: 3pm Cost: Normal admission Prize for the best adult and best child’s Easter Bonnet.

01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ claremont-landscape-garden 4 TO 6 APR EASTER TRAILS AT STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, TW1 4ST For Ages: All Time: 12.30pm Cost: Garden Entry FREE Woodland Trail £2 Cheeky Chickens House Exploration FREE to children with paying adult To receive a chocolate treat explore the house to find the Cheeky Chickens or take an Enchanted Easter Adventure in the woodland trail.

No booking required.

020 8744 1241 www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk 5 APR SUNDAY AFTERNOON ART AT ORLEANS HOUSE GALLERY Riverside, Twickenham TW1 3DJ For Ages: 4+ Time: 2-3.30pm Cost: Child £3, extra child £1.50 Drop family art activities. No booking required.

020 8831 6000 www.richmond.gov.uk/arts 5 TO 6 APR OPEN DAY AT THAMES DITTON MINIATURE RAILWAY Claygate Lane, KT7 0LE Time: 2-5pm Cost: FREE Entry + charge for rides Have a picnic on large grass field and ride on steam, diesel and electric scale trains.

0208 398 3985 www.malden-dsme.co.uk STORYTELLING AT KEW PALACE Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, TW9 3AB Time: 10am-5.30pm Cost: FREE with Admission to Kew Gardens A specialist artist will demonstrate how to create beautiful Georgian silhouette drawing and decorations fit to grace the walls of the palace!

084 4482 7777 www.hrp.org.uk/KewPalace 7 TO 10 APRIL EASTER FAMILY WORKSHOPS AT MUSEUM OF RICHMOND Old Town Hall, Whittaker Avenue, TW9 1TP Time: 10am-12pm Cost: £4 per child Art and craft activities inspired by the

Find a Cadbury Easter egg trail at a place near you...

being an eggsplorer

Box Hill, Clandon Park, Claremont Landscape Garden, Ham House and Garden, Hatchlands Park, Hindhead Commons, Holmwood Common, Leith Hill Place, Morden Hall Park, Polesden Lacey, Runnymede, Winkworth Arboretum

nationaltrust.org.uk/surreyevents

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

39

3 April – 24 May

Where theatre begins…

Operation

Magic Carpet

A safe and creative environment in which your child can thrive in their experience of sport and develop a love for playing the greatest game on earth!

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Training sessions, courses and parties across London

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An action-packed adventure from London to Baghdad Ages

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Includes Richmond, Sheen, Brentford and Chiswick

Includes Kingston, Weybridge and East Molesey

Includes Hampton, Twickenham, Feltham, Teddington, Isleworth

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twickenham.kiddikicks.co.uk

Big confidence starts small Its amazing how much the little ones can do! At The Little Gym®, we take a non-competitive, progressive approach to early learning and motor skill development through gymnastic movements.

Children aged as little as 4 months right up to 12 years, learn at an age appropriate pace, building upon past achievements as they advance week to week and semester to semester. Take the first step, and enroll your child today. And see how their confidence grows step by baby step.

Book your Introductory Visit NOW! Call us on 020 8977 0099

The Little Gym Hampton & Teddington • 94 - 102 High Street Hampton Hill TW12 1NY • 020 8977 0099 hampton_teddington@thelittlegym.eu • www.thelittlegym.co.uk/hamptonteddington

Parent/Child Classes

Preschool/Kindergarten Gymnastics

Primary School Gymnastics

Holiday Camps

Birthday Parties

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