Families Surrey East Jan/Feb 2015

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Local News

January-February 2015

familiessurreyeast.co.uk

What’s On for 0-12 year olds in January and February

) February

Covering Reigate, Redhill, Dorking, Leatherhead, Caterham, Godstone, Warlingham, Horley, Oxted and Lingfield

Half Term ) Nursery Education

10

Confidence Building Fun

Call 0845 400 1279 or visit perform.org.uk to find your nearest venue.

Try a Free Drama Class Families Surrey East July-August 2014

3

ISSUE 44 JAN-FEB 2015

IN THIS ISSUE

Here’s to 2015!

In this issue we focus on nursery education (pages 8-9), including a special feature on the growing interest in Forest Schooling, page 12.

Indoor fun also takes precedence in the winter months – we have the latest news from our leisure centres on pages 14-15.

Our love of outdoors is always there, however – Nature Notes on page 18 has some great days out. And Wild Learning, one of our outdoor holiday camps, will be launching a new venue in Buchan Country Park near Crawley by Easter.

The magazine continues to grow, covering more events and activities. It’s time for the next step – to ask one or two younger editors to take it to the next level. I’m thinking about retirement - but not until I’ve told the next editors everything I know about making a great magazine. Let me know if this might be you!

Eleanor Lines, Editor, Families Surrey East. Tel: 020 8948 6895 editor@familiessurreyeast.co.uk

3 NEWS 6 Babies & Toddlers and Time For Mums 8 Nursery Education 10 Education – Open Days 12 Education - Learning in the Forest 13 Work Flexibly – and be happy!

14 What’s New at our Local Leisure Centres?

16 Town & Community Noticeboard 16 Club News Out & About 18 Nature Notes 19 Events Calendar 22 Theatres 23 Holiday Camps and Courses

75% of Surrey homes use their caddy...do you?

Visit lovefoodsurrey.com

2 Families Surrey East January-February 2015

Web mag: www. Familiessurreyeast.co.uk Families Surrey East is part of the national network of Families magazines. See www. familiesonline.co.uk for more features and competitions.

NEXT ISSUE – MARCH-APRIL, out on 25 FEBRUARY 2015. Send your news and upcoming events by 26TH JANUARY for FREE INCLUSION. PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS and reach families throughout East Surrey with DISPLAY ADS or ask about our CLASSIFIED LISTINGS – perfect for small businesses and web sales.

AD BOOKING AND COPY DEADLINE FOR MARCHAPRIL 2015 is 26th January 2015. Please send ad artwork by 30th January 2015. For advertising and editorial enquiries, call the Editor on 020 8948 6895 or email: editor@familiessurreyeast.co.uk Front Cover image: Venture Photography, 69 Kingston Road, New Malden, Surrey, KT3 3PB.0208 605 1212. www.venturephotography.com 23,000 copies of FAMILIES SURREY EAST are distributed free of charge to schools, nurseries, playgroups, clubs & classes, NCT groups, baby clinics, good children’s shops, libraries, theatres & sports centres.

Distributed to venues in Leatherhead and Dorking, Reigate and Redhill, Godstone, Oxted and Lingfield, Warlingham and Caterham and down to Horley and the Surrey/ Sussex border in the south. To obtain copies for your venue call 0208 948 6895 or email distribution@familiessurreyeast.co.uk Families Surrey East, Spire Court, Onslow Rd, Richmond, Surrey TW10 6QG Telephone: 0208 948 6895 Web: familiessurreyeast.co.uk Email: editor@familiessurreyeast.co.uk Design: Andrews Design & Marketing, The Studio, 29A Bell St, Reigate, Surrey RH2 7AD Tel: 01737 224340 Email: phil.andrews1@btinternet.com Print: Warwick Printing Company Limited, Leamington Spa, Warks CV31 1QD Tel: 01926 883355 Families® Surrey East is part of the Families® group, established in 1990 and headed by Families® SW London. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor any consequence.

NEWS

GoFest Family Fitness festival comes to Surrey The UK’s first festival of sport, fitness, dance and health takes place at Surrey Sports Park in Guildford on the weekend of 10-12 July 2015, giving thousands of families from across the UK the chance to try their hand at over 75 different sports and activities.

GoFest 2015 has been launched by Olympic gold medallist and BBC presenter Sharron Davies and footballing superstar Kevin Keegan.

The July event will be made up of specialist zones such as GoCompete, GoSplash, GoTry, GoCool, GoFuel, GoKids and GoTeens along with live music, entertainment and picnic areas. Camping will also be available nearby to give the weekend a true festival feel.

Kevin Keegan, OBE says: “At a time when we really need to encourage people to get more active, GoFest provides a brilliant opportunity for families to come together and try something new in a fun environment full of enthusiastic experts.” The aim of Juice Festivals, the creators of GoFest, is to create quality time for families while improving fitness and reducing obesity. Tickets are now available at www.gofest.co.uk/tickets

Fitness and Little Fitness Academies launch in Reigate & Nutfield Personal trainer Jess Bunting, who established Bubbles Fitness in Reigate, is relaunching her fitness academies for mums and little ones at two lovely new, indoor venues.

Jess has developed a timetable of bespoke classes for adults only or for mums to exercise with their babies, designed to give a complete body workout and optimise results. The new Fitness Academy and Little Fitness Academy classes will take place at The Old Post in Nutfield (formerly Heaven) and in Reigate. www.fitnessacademysurrey.co.uk

Reigate School of Ballet dances with Strictly Star!

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The Harlequin Theatre, Redhill, sees the start of a national tour for Strictly Come Dancing Star Pasha Kovalev on 14 March 2015. And Reigate School of Ballet pupils have been asked to dance alongside him! Rehearsals are underway and RSB pupils are at a high level of excitement. Pasha has been with Strictly for many years and will be an inspiration to the ballet school pupils dancing with him.

With 50 years of teaching experience, Reigate School of Ballet continues to grow. It now offers Ballet, Contemporary, Streetdance, Modern, Tap, Musical Theatre, limbering, and piloxing – and three free trial lessons as standard to help choose the right class for your son or daughter.

Voice Force - preparing for school interviews Tablets and mobile phones have changed the way we communicate and some experts believe this is eroding the ability of children to hold face-to-face conversations. This leaves children in need of being taught effective communication skills. ‘Good communication skills’ is one of the most requested assets sought by employers. Job candidates need to interview well but so, too, do students applying to schools and universities.

Voice Force is a new local company that offers workshops and one-onone coaching for children and young adults, including presentation and interview skills. The next workshop, ‘11+/13+ Interview Skills’ takes place on Saturday, 17th January, 2-4 pm in Reigate and costs £35. Places are limited; you can book by calling 07825 260091. More information and other upcoming workshops are on the website. www. voiceforce.org

British Wildlife Centre

Over 40 different native wild animal species

Open every weekend and daily during state school hols

Spring half term open: Sat 14 Feb - Sun 22 Feb We’re on the A22, Newchapel, nr Lingfield, Surrey RH7 6LF

01342 834658 www.britishwildlifecentre.co.uk

Families Surrey East January-February 2015 3

NEWS

Apply for Primary School places now!

If you have a child who is due to start infant, junior or primary school in September 2015, you have until Thursday, 15 January 2015 to apply for a place. Applying online is quick and easy, go to www. new.surreycc.gov.uk/schools-and-learning/schools/school-admissions

Local mum develops baby skincare range

Parents Want a Say (PWAS) – in absence from school

Controversy surrounds the fining of parents who have taken their children out of school during term time.

Dorking mum Emma Nash put her knowledge of selling natural oils to the skincare industry to good use in setting up Tiddley Pom Baby Spa. This skincare range for babies offers a safe and healthy alternative to the chemicals often found in commercial skincare products.

Encouraged by the results on her baby’s eczema, Emma has seen the symptoms of teething, stomach upsets, colic and colds eased through aromatherapy, massage and soothing music.

To help parents daunted by the thought of massaging a delicate little person, Emma has developed a step-by-step guide to baby massage than is available with a set of oils, nappy balm, lotion and body wash to work in harmony with baby’s skin.

The products are free from parabens, SLS, mineral oils and harmful chemicals and are now available from Boots. www. tiddley-pom.com

Before 1st September 2013, head teachers had the discretion to allow up to 10 days authorised school absence. They are now only allowed to grant leave during exceptional circumstances. Without guidance on what “exceptional” should mean, the National Association for Head Teachers has recently published some guidelines.

PWAS believes each case should be taken on its merits and that this falls under Human Rights legislation. Some family experiences are important to a child’s wellbeing, mental health and lifetime memories.

Are teachers being left out of this discussion?

Pupils may have to catch up with missed curriculum – and this takes teacher time, as well as hours of effort from parents to make up for lost schooling. www. parents wantasay.co.uk/naht.org.uk

Support for adopted children A new Adoption Support Fund will be rolled out across England from 1 May 2015 to help adopted children thrive in their adoptive families. Adoption UK lobbied the Government to provide funds to help families get the help they need to parent vulnerable children, much needed because of the difficulties in early life experienced by many adopted children.

The Department for Education is investing £19.3miliion via the new fund.

Learn to Swim!

The Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) has launched a swim initiative calling on primary schools and politicians to show their commitment to school swimming as new figures reveal that 45 per cent of 7-11yr old children are unable to swim 25 metres despite it being a national curriculum requirement.

Although this is a 6% improvement on 2013 figures, drowning is the third highest cause of accidental death in children in the UK. Children are still not spending enough time in the water learning to swim.

The ASA’s new Swimming Charter supports school swimming and recommends that Ofsted require Key Stage 2 attainment as part of their inspections. See page 17 for news of free swimming lessons from Pool Schools. www. swimming.org/SchoolCharter

111 Emergency Service launched NHS 111 is a new service that’s being introduced to make it easier to access local NHS healthcare services in England. You can call 111 when you need medical help fast but it’s not a 999 emergency and you don’t have a GP to call. NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Calls are free from landlines and mobile phones.

The operators can give you medical advice and tell you where to go for help, such as to a doctor, a community nurse, an emergency dentist or a late-opening chemist.

If the NHS 111 team think you need emergency medical help, they will send an ambulance to you straight away. www. nhs.uk

La Jolie Ronde, Reigate - Spanish 4 Kidz

Contact Kate Haacke Tel: 01737 212677. www. lajolieronde.co.uk

4 Families Surrey East January-February 2015

NEW FOR JANUARY 2015 Following the success of classes at local schools and nurseries Spanish 4 Kidz is to launch a Saturday Spanish Club for children aged 3 to 4yrs and 5 to 7yrs. The Club will meet at Saint Mary’s Church Centre, Chart Lane, Reigate on Saturday mornings during term time. Small class sizes are guaranteed.

Children will learn action songs and rhymes, enjoy stories and role plays, play with puppets and get creative.

NEWS

Lottery Award for the Weald and Downland Museum

The Weald & Downland Open Air Museum at Singleton near Chichester in the South Downs National Park has announced a £4million award from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF). This will provide visitors with a better understanding of the significance of the farm buildings, the area’s rural heritage and the Museum’s collections. It will also provide a highly flexible annexe for use as a classroom, community events and functions.

The Museum already runs a well-established schools programme and an award-winning adult learning programme of courses in building conservation and rural crafts.

Building work starts in 2015, ready for the 2017 season. www. wealddown.co.uk

Sign up for the 10km Children’s Trust Run The BUPA London 10k run takes place on Monday, May 25th, starting and finishing at St James’s Park. Tadworth charity The Children’s Trust has places available for runners to help them raise money for children with brain injury being treated at Tadworth Court.

To reserve your place and help raise money for children with brain injury please email bupalondon10k@thechildrenstrust.org.uk or call the sports team on 01737 364323.

And‌ Supercars are them!

Successful established magazine franchise FOR SALE Local parents needed to take Families Surrey East to the next level!

Families Surrey East was launched in 2007 and has a loyal following, with 23,000 copies reaching parents with children up to the age of 12 years. As well as the highly successful magazine, we have a popular local website as part of the national group, plus Twitter and a facebook page.

If you are: r A parent wanting to work from home r Looking for flexible working hours around your children r Someone who enjoys talking to local people r Reasonably well organized r Familiar with working on a computer You could be the new editor of Families Surrey East – or create a small team to produce the magazine together?

If you’d like to find out more about running your own business and want a job that works around your family, please call 0208 948 6895 or email editor@familiessurreyeast.co.uk

Put Saturday & Sunday, 20-21 June 2015 in your diary for the Children’s Trust Supercar event at Dunsfold Aerodrome, Surrey.

Supercar rides round the Dunsfold racetrack from just ÂŁ35! Even more excitement this year as they plan a series of new rides, not just fast cars but in trucks and fire engines, too! www. thesupercarevent.com

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Families Surrey East January-February 2015 5

Babies and Toddlers TIME FOR MUMS

Shape up mums!

Healthy eating advice for pregnancy, infants and toddlers A new report from the Infant & Toddler Forum on early life nutrition has just been published, also a new factsheet, Healthy Eating in Pregnancy.

The report acknowledges the emerging evidence that a mother’s weight and nutritional status before, during and between pregnancies can have a long lasting effect on the baby’s health and the risk of disease later in life.

The Infant and Toddler Forum’s website contains lots of very useful information.

The Forum is sponsored by a commercial company (Danone) but we have been assured that the content is free of influence.

You can download all their reports and factsheets free of charge at www. infantandtoddlerforum.org

Cow’s Milk Allergy CMA is the most common type of food allergy in young infants, affecting between 2% - 7.5% of children under one year old (BMJ 2013). Yet if often takes months to diagnose and a survey of GPs (medeConnect, June 2014) revealed that their estimate of the incidence was much lower.

Cow’s milk allergy occurs when the immune system identifies a protein within the cow’s milk consumed as harmful, and triggers an allergic reaction. Symptoms vary, but may

The new launch of the ‘Little’ Fitness Academy brings a complete range of classes designed to get mums back in shape in the shortest time possible. Mums can exercise indoors at beautiful new studios in Nutfield (The OldPost) or in Reigate, with your baby or child in the class, meaning that no extra childcare is necessary. If you are lucky enough to get some ‘me’ time, the adults only Fitness Academy also offers a full timetable of classes.

Developed by experienced personal trainer and mum of two, Jess Bunting, the classes are suitable for all abilities, get measurable results and are fun, supportive and motivating, even when you have had the worst night’s sleep!

Jess’s Pilates-based classes are a must following pregnancy to stabilise, tone, strengthen and balance the body. For optimum fat- burning, there are the very popular Spin and Speed and Agility high intensity sessions. Book with friends at the OldPost and you can enjoy guilt-free coffee and cake afterwards!

Email or text Jess to check which class will suit you best. jess@fitnessacademysurrey. co.uk or 07870 207779. www. fitnessacademysurrey.co.uk include tummy pain, reluctant feeding, moderate to severe eczema, loose stools or constipation. Severe symptoms may include anaphylaxis and breathing problems. Mead Johnson and Allergy UK have launched the Is It Cow’s Milk Allergy? awareness campaign to help concerned parents monitor their baby and recognise the potential signs and symptoms of CMA. www. IsItCowsMilkAllergy.co.uk

Specialist Baby and Toddler Swimming Classes and Aqua-Natal Yoga Classes

Come out of your shell and learn to swim the Turtle Tots Way!

Tel: 07920 854714 www.turtletots.com Email: charlotte.hollands@turtletots.com

MAYKI personalises your child’s surroundings Every parent wants their child to be surrounded by things they love, but when looking for something special it can be hard to find something unique and personal. MAYKI is a local company that was launched six months ago by a Surrey mum.

Their website lets you create personalised prints to make your own. You can even see a preview of how it will look before you order. There are pirate and dinosaur prints and fairies and funky Russian doll designs, all suitable for any child’s room. There is a huge selection of alphabet prints, too, for toddlers and babies, which is a fun way to help the younger ones recognise letter forms and start to read their own name.

MAYKI creates every print to order with your own details, so your print is always personal to you and not something you can find anywhere else. There is also a range of framing options. Prices start from just £18.

Visit mayki.co.uk and start creating your own beautiful prints. ww.mayki.co.uk

Role of Folic Acid now accepted A new EU law now allows supplement manufacturers to state on the packaging for folic acid that it can help women who may become pregnant to reduce the primary risk factor associated with the development of Neural Tube Defects (NTDs) like spina bifida and anencephaly.

6 Families Surrey East January-February 2015

Babies and Toddlers

For classes of pure MADness, join MAD Academy Classes in Dorking, Reigate & Redhill Call Maggie on 01483 202299 or email: maggie.duerden@madacademy.com Classes in Ashtead, Tadworth, Effingham & Epsom Call Karen on 01372 210378 or email: karen.morgan@madacademy.com

Birthday parties too!

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

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Families Surrey East January-February 2015 7

Nursery Education

What to expect from your child’s nursery education A child who has gone to pre-school has more chance of getting better exam results and ultimately earning higher wages, according to new research undertaken by academics at the Institute of Education.

To give you some idea of what you can expect at a nursery, the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework sets out the statutory welfare and developmental goals for children 5 years and under.

Guidelines for safety, learning and development attach to all early

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Information available at www.gov.uk and www.familiesonline.co.uk

SCHOOL NEWS

Tadworth’s Chinthurst pre-prep and Nursery grows ´7KH +DZWKRUQV KDV D XQLTXH DELOLW\ WR UHFRJQLVH WKH SRWHQWLDO LQ D FKLOG DQG JLYH WKHP WKH FRQILGHQFH DQG EHOLHI QRW RQO\ WR SDVV H[DPV EXW WR UHDFK GUHDPV DQG DVSLUDWLRQV WKDW JR PXFK IXUWKHU¾ 3DVW SDUHQWV

Working Open Mornings held regularly. Do come and visit.

Admissions 01883 743048

www.hawthorns.com

An ambitious new pre-prep and nursery building is planned for Chinthurst School’s growing numbers. It will provide an outstanding educational facility for 2-6yr olds, with space for 150+ pupils. The classroom spaces will offer state-of-the-art teaching facilities with flexibility for multi-purpose use. The plans include purpose-built play area, a new office / reception area, parking for staff and visitors and secure access from The Avenue. The new building is part of the ongoing renovation programme of the whole school.

Parents are invited to register for September 2015 places and visit the school – and see all the new plans in place for September 2015. Call Angie Webster on 01737 812011 (ext 3). www. chinthurstschool.co.uk

Scholarships and Bursaries launched at Priory Prep Priory Prep prides itself on the academic success of its boys and the scholarships and awards awarded to Priory boys moving on to senior schools. Now Priory Prep is launching its own scholarships and bursaries for entry into Year 3 from September 2015.

Chair of Governors, Ashley Head, commented: “Our school combines the warmth and sense of community of a local school with the resources and outstanding teaching of a leading preparatory school.

We are delighted that these awards will enable more boys to benefit from the outstanding education Priory Preparatory School provides.�

Year 3 entry assessment for standard entry, scholarships and bursaries will take place on Saturday, 24th January. See page 10 for contact details. www.prioryprep.co.uk

8 Families Surrey East January-February 2015

Nursery Education

REDEHALL PREPARATORY SCHOOL FOR GIRLS AND BOYS FROM 3 to 11 YEARS

“Engaging Lives, Inspiring Learning�

External Scholarships Available for Spring, Summer and Autumn 2015 Entrance Exam Wednesday 4th February 2015 For children aged 6 to 9 years.

Email the Headmistress, Mrs Wright, to register.

Affordable independent education for all.

Redehall Preparatory School, Redehall Road, Smallfield, Surrey RH6 9QA www.redehall.surrey.sch.uk , 01342 842987 head@redehall.surrey.sch.uk

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

FOR OPEN DAYS CALL 01737 812011

OPEN Â MORNINGS

7XHVGD\ )HEUXDU\ DQG :HGQHVGD\ 0D\ DP Please  contact  us  to  reserve  a  place An  independent  day  school  for  girls  aged  2–16 Manor  House  School,  Manor  House  Lane,  Little  Bookham Leatherhead,  Surrey  KT23  4EN

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Families Surrey East January-February 2015 9

Education Independent School OPEN MORNINGS SPRING TERM 2015 for prospective parents Nurturing Self-Confidence and Talent Strengths in Technology, Music and Performing Arts Rural setting (Close to South Croydon, Caterham and Kent)

OPEN MORNING Friday 30th Jan 2015 (9.30am – 11.30am)

“Outstanding behaviour... pupils are confident, articulate & self-assured� Ofsted 2012

A independent school for girls and boys aged 2-11 years Chelsham Common, Warlingham, Surrey CR6 9PB 01883 626844 8 info@warlinghamparkschool.com 8 warlinghamparkschool.com

Call the school for details of start time.

Some open events require advance booking. Senior School Open Days are now available on the website. Go to Familiessurreyeast.co.uk/seniorschoolopendays Aberdour School, Burgh Heath KT20 6AJ Boys & girls, 2-13 yrs. Tel: 01737 354119 aberdourschool.co.uk Friday, 20 March 2015 Belmont School, Holmbury St Mary RH5 6LQ Boys & girls, 2-13 yrs. Tel: 01306 730852 belmont-school.org Wednesday, 11 February 2015 Bramley School, Walton on the Hill KT20 7ST Girls, 3-11 yrs. Tel: 01737 812004 bramleyschool.co.uk Saturday, 7 March 2015 Caterham Preparatory School, Harestone Valley Rd, CR3 6YB Boys & girls, 3-11 yrs.

Tel: 01883 342097 caterhamprepschool.co.uk Open morning 2016 entry September 2015

YEAR 3 ENTRY 2015 Scholarships and bursaries available Meet the Headmaster Friday 16th January 9-11am

Chinthurst School, Tadworth KT20 5AP Boys & girls 2-13 yrs. Call Angie Webster on 01737 812011 chinthurst.surrey.sch.uk Call for spring term open day date City of London Freemen’s School Ashtead, KT21 1ET Tel: 01372 822423 Co-ed, day & boarding, 7-18 yrs. clfs.surrey.sch.uk Saturday, 7 March 2015 Copthorne Prep School, Copthorne, W. Sussex RH10 3HR Tel: 01342 712311 copthorneprep.co.uk Co-ed, day & boarding (from Y3), 2.5-13yrs Saturday, 7 February 2015

01737 366 942 www.prioryprep.co.uk Priory  Preparatory  School,  Bolters  Lane,  Barnstead,  Surrey  SM7  2JA

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Downsend School Pre-Preps Leatherhead, Ashtead & Epsom.

Boys and girls, 2-6 yrs. Tel: 01372 372311 downsend.co.uk Saturday, 7 February 2015 (Leatherhead & Epsom)

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Join us at one of our Open Days Pre-Preps: 9.30am to 11.30am

Prep School: & | From 9:15am (Headmaster’s Talk at 9:30am)

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Cranmore School, Epsom Rd, W. Horsley, KT24 6AT BCo-ed 2.5 -7yrs, Boys 7 -13yrs.

Tel: 01483 280340 cranmoreprep.co.uk Friday, 13 March and Saturday, 14 March 2015

www.downsend.co.uk

10 Families Surrey East January-February 2015

Downsend Prep School, Leatherhead KT22 8TJ Boys and girls, 6-13 yrs. Tel: 01372 372311 downsend.co.uk Friday, 6 February 2015 Essendene Lodge School, Caterham CR3 5PB Girls & boys, 2.5-11 yrs.

Tel: 01883 348349 essendenelodge.co.uk Thursday, 12 February 2015 Farlington School, Strood Park, Horsham West Sussex RH12 3PN Girls 3-18yrs.

Day & boarding. Tel: 01403 254967 farlingtonschool.net ‘Farlington in Action’: Tuesday, 27 January and Thursday, 19 March 2015 Glenesk School, East Horsley KT24 6NS Girls & boys, 2-7yrs. Tel: 01483 282329 gleneskschool.co.uk Thursday, 12 February 2015

Greenacre School, Banstead SM7 3RA Girls, 3-18 yrs. Tel: 01737 352114 greenacre.surrey.sch.uk Friday, 13 March 2015 The Hawthorns School, Bletchingley RH1 4QJ Boys & girls, 2-13 yrs. Tel: 01883 743048 hawthorns.com Friday, 27 February 2015 Hazelwood School, Limpsfield, Oxted RH8 OQH Boys and girls, 4-13 yrs. Tel: 01883 712194 hazelwoodschool.co.uk (also Hazelwood’s Nursery, The Larks, Oxted) Friday, 6 March 2015 Lingfield Notre Dame School, Lingfield RH7 6PH. Co-educational Inter-denominational, 2½ -18 years. Tel: 01342 838153 lingfieldnd.co.uk Junior School: 14 March 2015 Nursery School: 29 March 2015 Manor House School & Nursery, Bookham KT23 4EN Girls 2-16 yrs. Tel: Mrs Fowell 01372 457077 manorhouseschool.org Tuesday, 10 February and Wednesday, 6 May 2015 Micklefield School, Reigate RH2 9DU Boys & girls, 3-11 yrs. Tel: 01737 224212 micklefieldschool.co.uk Saturday, 14 March 2015 Moon Hall College & Bury’s Court, Leigh, Reigate RH2 8RE Boys & girls, 2.5-16 yrs.

Tel: 01306 611372 moonhallcollege.co.uk Tuesday, 10 February 2015 Oakhyrst Grange School, Caterham CR3 6AF Boys & girls, 3-11 yrs. Tel: 01883 343344 oakhyrstgrangeschool.co.uk Friday, 30 January 2015 Pennthorpe School, Rudgwick , W. Sussex RH12 3HJ Co-ed, 2-13 yrs. Tel: Fiona Long: 01403 822391 pennthorpe.com Saturday, 7 March 2015 Wednesday, 11 March 2015 Priory Prep School, Banstead SM7 2AJ Boys 2-13 yrs. Tel: 01737 366942 prioryprep.co.uk Fridays, 16 January (Y3) and 6 March; Saturday, 21 March 2015 Redehall Preparatory School, Smallfield, Horley RH6 9QA Boys and girls, 3-11 yrs.

Tel: 01342 842987 redehall.surrey.sch.uk Saturday, 25 April 2015 Reigate St Mary’s, Chart Lane, Reigate RH2 7RN Girls and boys, 3-11 yrs.

Tel: 01737 244880 reigatestmarys.org Weds, 28 January & 11 March 2015 Royal Alexandra & Albert School, Reigate RH2 0TD Boys & girls, 7-18 yrs.

Tel: 01737 649000 raa-school.co.uk Saturday, 14 March 2015 St Teresa’s Nursery & Prep School, Effingham RH5 6ST. Girls, 2-18 yrs.

Call Annabel Charles on 01372 750 204 st-teresas.com Friday, 1 May 2015 Warlingham Park School, Nursery, Pre-school and Prep Chelsham Common, Warlingham CR6 9PB Boys and girls, 2-11 yrs. Tel: 01883 626844 warlinghamparkschool.com Visits by appointment

Education

Ecooutfitters – growing their range Ecooutfitters first launched their chemical-free uniform brand in 2013, since then their range of organic school wear has constantly grown.

In response to customer enquiries, they’ve now launched their latest addition to the range: organic cotton socks to keep children’s little feet warm this winter.

Ecooutfitters socks and knee high socks are made from ethically sourced certified (Global Organic Textile Standard) organic cotton and have flat seams, which is perfect for kids with sensitive skin. Knee high socks for girls have a beautiful bow feature making it a refreshing and stylish addition to the everyday school uniform look.

Marina, from Ecooutfitters, commented “Natural fabrics are much better than synthetic at regulating your child’s body temperature – keeping them warm when they’re outside in the cold and cooling them off while sitting in an often overheated classroom. We’re thrilled that our organic cotton products are such a popular choice among parents, ensuring the children are getting the best out of their learning environment.”

READER OFFER Ecooutfitters celebrate the arrival of their socks range with the introductory offer: purchase 5 for the price of 4, with the additional and exclusive offer of 10% OFF for Families readers (use code FSES14).

You can kit your kids out with a week’s worth of socks and save! www.ecooutfitters.co.uk

Learn to Read

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Reading Eggs provides a comprehensive range of online reading lessons and eBooks that teach children aged 3-13 the literacy skills needed for lifetime reading success. The reason why over 90% of parents using Reading Eggs report a noticeable improvement in their child’s reading skills is because the programme makes learning phonics and basic reading skills fun.

With hundreds of reading lessons and activities to explore, sign up for our special 4 WEEK TRIAL* and see first-hand how your child’s reading can improve in just 4 weeks!

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Redehall’s successful year Redehall’s Head, Mrs Joanne Wright, has made such an impact on the Smallfields school since she became Head last summer that Reception 2015 entry is already full and there are now just five spaces for Reception 2016! This year they host their first external Scholarship Day – on February 4th, offering 6-9yr olds the opportunity of up to 20% reduction in fees.

Mrs Wright commented: “Redehall’s affordable fees, high expectations and attention to traditional courtesies make it an attractive option for parents.” www.redehall.surrey.sch.uk

Hurry, offer ends 28th February 2015.

Register today at

www.readingeggs.co.uk/jan15se *Free trial only available for new customers who sign up at the above address.

The multi-award winning online reading programme!

Families Surrey East January-February 2015 11

Education

Learning in the Forest We are witnessing an explosion of children discovering a new classroom – out in the woods!

Many of our local nurseries offer ‘forest school’ sessions, with teachers taking the children outdoors to learn in nature.

Closely associated with the Danish early years programme, the forest school concept was brought to England in the 1990s. In Denmark, groups of children were playing outside in woodland and were seen to have strong social and communication skills, greater confidence and high self-esteem by the time they started their main schooling.

Forest school philosophy is to encourage and inspire individuals through positive outdoor experiences, learning is play based and as far as possible childinitiated and led. There are no time constraints and risk-taking is facilitated.

“

Children’s behaviour outside is so different. By encouraging children to be self reliant, explore and learn new skills, they also become more able to assess risks, become more brave, sociable and self confident.

”

Here are some comments from local nurseries who practise Forest Schooling, some of whom have their own qualified Forest School teachers, others who invite Forest School leaders to come and help the children experience the fun of being outside, surrounded by trees. Many of the Early Years Foundation skills (see page 8) are covered in forest school sessions.

The Hawthorns School, Bletchingley

Children are given responsibility: they become resourceful and independent.

“

The children in the Nursery & Reception classes collected sticks for the bonfire and sat around it to sing songs and eat toasted marshmallows Other days we have held a Woodland Day, during which we planted trees.

Hawthorns School Early Years, Bletchingley.

”

Chinthurst School in Tadworth takes Nursery

and Reception children to Jubilee Woods and surrounding areas every week for a forest walk. Led by Mrs Timms, an accredited Forest School teacher, they enjoy a very hands-on experience. The pupils play, build tents, climb trees, learn boundaries of behaviour - both physical and social - and grow in confidence in woodland areas.

Bus Stop pre-school at Polesden Lacey, Bookham, has fully embraced forest schooling. It has

been an established Forest School for three years, with two fully-qualified Forest School Leaders and two more practitioners about to qualify. All the pre-schoolers enjoy weekly sessions ‘whatever the weather’. One session revolves around building a fire, whittling hazel to make charcoal sticks on the fire for drawing, making dens and drinking hot chocolate round the campfire.

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12 Families Surrey East January-February 2015

Portfield Childcare, a new all-day nursery in

Outwood, takes nine children (up to 5yrs) and introduces them to the open fields, pets and some farm animals, following the Early Years Curriculum and maximizing the outdoor experience from the base of Portfield Farm.

“

Tell me and I’ll forget; show me and I may remember; involve me and I’ll understand.

Surrey Wildlife Trust

”

For many years the Surrey Wildlife Trust has been promoting Forest Schools through their own activities and providing training for local teachers and practitioners and delivering exciting programmes for early years, primary and secondary age children, also for young people with behavioural and special educational needs.

Teaching teachers

Bus Stop

The Little School on the Green in Walton on the Hill has been given permission to use a private

woodland close to the nursery. The setting allows the children to engage with the natural environment.

Forest School is about exploring and experiencing the natural world through practical activities. The children go out in all weathers, all year round, exploring and learning from the four seasons and environment changes.

Forest school sessions help children develop a wide range of skills. In addition to the social experience, children also grapple with extra vocabulary and communication, new physical skills, knowledge of the natural world, numeracy and creativity.

Bury’s Court School, Leigh nr Reigate “From September 2012 we have been running a Forest School programme for one morning a week for Little Berries. We are now expanding this upwards through the Bury’s Court classes as we have been most impressed with the beneficial effects it has had on the children, their self-esteem and motivation whilst developing an understanding of the natural world.”

Manor House School, Bookham

“We operate our own outdoor learning sessions and our entire curriculum is based around the promotion of indoor to outdoor learning. We also have our own Orchard Garden and outdoor woodland classroom, The Dell, which is part of our 17 acre site. Every child in the Nursery has a red all-in-one waterproof for outdoor trips.”

SWT offers Forest Schools licences for schools and organisations with sufficient qualifications to deliver Forest Schools on a selected number of their reserves.

They are one of the main local providers of Forest School trainings, running four courses every year. SWT works in partnership with Surrey County Council’s Early Years and Childcare Service to encourage and support settings and schools to engage in Forest School activities.

If you are an early years practitioner within the county, Surrey Early Years and Childcare Service also offers financial support to obtain Forest School qualifications and taster sessions. For further information go to the Training Programme on the Early Years and Childcare Service webpage.

Older children in Forest School sessions will learn additional skills such as campfire cooking and using tools, as well as gaining a deeper understanding of how natural environments function.

Chinthurst School in Tadworth

“

We all know there is something magical about a piece of woodland.

Little School on the Green

”

Running your own business

Work flexibly and be happy!

The stress of parenthood plus working is undeniable – we are being tugged in two directions and sometimes it is difficult to work out how to juggle our lives.

Flexible working can be a solution for some.

Part-time work is available at times, too – though remuneration may not be great and the timing might not suit family life.

The solution found by an increasing number of people is to run their own business and, especially for those who haven’t done that – or even thought about it before, a franchise is becoming a more and more popular way to take control of your work hours, experience fun and satisfaction in your daily work, win back those commuting hours and earn an income that provides enough to live on.

Some people build on a skill already developed. At Families Surrey East we know many teachers who have taught for local franchises then started to run their own. Viv Hunt from Fetcham and Maggie and Diane in Horley have all stepped into the business world that way and have recently become Jo Jingles franchise owners, having been Jo Jingles teachers for several years in Fetcham and East Surrey, bringing music,

movement, language and co-ordination to children from 3mths to 5yrs. Having the established brand of the franchise behind them gave them confidence to grow their businesses in their own areas and in their own way.

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Franchises exist for all sorts of activities, many of them offering services to young families, parents and children, while some are geared to adult activities, such as local art classes. But all are suited to parents looking for a new way to create a career and experience the financial rewards of being their own boss.

) Nurse

10

Redhill, Reigate, Covering Leatherhead, Dorking, Godstone, Caterham, m, Horley, Warlingha Lingfield Oxted and

Families Surrey East magazine is a franchise,

one of 40 Families magazines nationwide and part of a great brand that first launched in 1990 in south west London and has spread from there, ce en Confid Building Fun now covering most large towns and cities and their surrounding areas and bringing much-needed information for parents – on parenting, children’s activities, family days out, health and education and a huge amount of local What’s On information both online and in the magazine. or 400 1279 Call 0845 m.org.uk to visit perfor venue. nearest find your

st 2014 a Class July-Augu Try a Free Dram Families Surrey East

3

Existing magazines rarely come up for sale, but now – after nearly eight years with the magazine, building it from its launch in November 2007, Eleanor (editor) is planning to retire in 2015 and is looking for one, two or three people to take it on to the next level, building on the excellent relationships with advertisers and growing the local magazine, working the printed version seamlessly with its website and with all social media.

See page 5 for more details of the sale of this magazine! www.jojingles.com/epsom2leatherhead www.jojingles.com/eastsurrey www.familiessurreyeast.co.uk

Families Surrey East January-February 2015 13

Indoor Activities

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leisure centres?

Swimming is in the news recently (see page 4), with a recommendation from the Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) that Ofsted ought to check the swimming performance of school children. Swimming can be a lifesaver. We have great provision for swimming in our local leisure centres. There are also courses available in some of our local schools.

See page 23 for news of free swimming lessons from Pool Schools in support of the ASA recommendations.

You will find details of all our local clubs and classes on our website’s ‘Directory’ tab at www.familiessurreyeast.co.uk and additional holiday activities on page 23-24. Holiday courses are also available as articles on our website.

Our leisure centres are continually being improved. Many offer a crèche so that you can focus on your own activities or accompany an older child. They all offer membership with discounts for activities. Here is the latest news of what’s on offer:Tandridge Leisure Centre Hoskins Road, Oxted RH8 9HT. Tel: 01883 716 717. www.tandridgetrust.co.uk Tandridge Leisure Centre, Oxted and de Stafford in Caterham are run by Tandridge Trust and offer children’s activities in term time including Football (5-7yrs), Cheer Dance (5-9yrs), Basketball (7-16yrs), Trampolining (3-14yrs).

There is a wide range of halfterm and holiday activities in both centres, too.

New for Tandridge Leisure Centre, Oxted: a spa pool and major refurbishment of the changing village and pool hall; childcare facilities now available Mon, Wed and Fri mornings; ‘Little Beans’, is the new play area with bouncy castle for babies and toddlers plus cafĂŠ every Monday afternoon, 1.30-4pm, ÂŁ2.50 per child 0-6 mths; ÂŁ4.00 for 6 mths-2yrs

14 Families Surrey East January-February 2015

(adults free); a new ‘Kiddi Kafe’ available Monday mornings in the newly refurbished poolside cafĂŠ; toddler ‘play panels’ in the lagoon pool and child and adult swimming lessons from 5 months.

De Stafford Sports Centre Burntwood Lane, Caterham CR3 5YX. Tel: 01883 344 355. www.tandridgetrust.co.uk In addition to the wide range of term-time and holiday activities including swimming courses (see Tandridge, above), the popular Dash Day Camps run at de Stafford in most holidays for 5-12yr olds (but not February); they represent great value at just ÂŁ24.50 per day (ÂŁ22 members), 8.30am to 5pm.

Leatherhead Leisure Centre Guildford Road KT22 9BL. Tel: 01372 377 674. www.fusion-lifestyle.com Dedicated Softplay area for the <8s, swimming, Short Tennis, football, trampolining and gym, netball plus a wide range of school-holiday activities including swimming crash courses, Kiddie Karts, Parkour and Soccer.

Dorking Sports Centre Reigate Rd, Dorking RH4 1SG. Tel: 01306 870180. www.dcleisurecentres.co.uk/ centres/dorking-sports-centre Dorking Sports Centre is home to many childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activities, including swimming and lifesaving, Rugby Tots, Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s martial arts, football, tennis, Gatwick Flyersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Trampolining, ABC Gymnastics and Street Dance.

Indoor Activities During all school holidays Fit For Sport Holiday Camps provide all-day activities for children 5-12yrs.

New for Oakwood is their ‘Coffee and Play’ session on Sunday mornings, 9.30am11.30am for 3-12ys, costing just £3.

DC Leisure took over the management of Dorking Sports Centre in November 2013.

2014 saw £500,000 spent on refurbishment to the gym, café (now with healthier food and comfortable sofas) and the addition of an indoor cycling studio. More recent improvements include the new Creepy Crawly soft-play sessions on Monday and Thursday mornings, with extra play equipment being installed in January 2015.

The Arc Arts Centre Caterham CR3 5XY. Tel: 01883 759418. www.the-arc-caterham.co.uk

Donyngs Leisure Centre Linkfield Lane, Redhill RH1 1DP. Tel: 01737 764 732. www.better.org.uk Donyngs hosts many clubs and classes for children, including Taekwan-do, Little Kickers and junior football, Reigate School of Ballet, basketball, trampolining and gymnastics including Junior Fitness for 11-15yr olds. Alongside the swimming pool there is a smaller learner pool with toddler classes. ‘Adventureland’ soft-play area is open 9am-5pm Monday to Friday and weekend mornings.

For school holidays: a range of children’s classes and swimming courses are on offer.

Banstead Leisure Centre Merland Rise, Tadworth KT20 5JG Tel: 01737 361933. www.gll.org/centre/banstead-sports-centre Swimming pools with courses and activities for children. CADA Dance Academy and Junior Fitness (11-15yrs).

For 2015, the big news is that a completely new building is going up almost next door to the existing one, offering a much wider range of facilities than in the current building, including space for community activities, a crèche, four-court sports hall and 5-a-side football pitches.

The building should be ready for late summer 2015.

Soft play, creative classes – drama, dance, art and Monkey Music classes.

Toddler play panels at Tandridge lagoon pool

Guildford Spectrum

Horley Leisure Centre Anderson Way, off Court Lodge Road Horley RH6 8RG. Tel: 01293 784 075. www.gll.org/centre/horley -anderson-centre.asp Lots of toddler activities including swimming from 4mths, Toddlers World (6mths to 5yrs), basketball, ballet, Rugby Tots, Junior Fitness (11-15yrs), gymnastics and trampolining including special needs.

Soft play with a bouncy castle and ball pit is available on Wednesday and Friday mornings, £3.45 per child.

Pool inflatables coming soon! The new building opened nearly 3 years ago – hard to believe!

Oakwood Sports Centre Balcombe Road Horley RH6 9AE. Tel: 01293 822238. www.blueleisure.com click on Oakwood Sports Centre.

Regular term-time activities include Street Dance (5-12yrs), Zumba for children 5-7yrs and 8-12yrs, Soccer (5-12yrs); ArtBlast (5-12yrs), Saturday Soccer and Saturday Skate (5-12yrs) plus Roller Discos, Springfit Trampolining and Gymnastics; Peak Performance Choi Kwang Do (PPCKD).

The popular holiday club features a variety of sports, arts and crafts, games and challenges plus daily special events such as Gladiator Challenges, Roller Discos and MiniOlympics. It costs £25.50 per day, 8.30am5pm, or save £2.50 by booking online.

Guildford Spectrum Parkway, Guildford GU1 1UP Tel: 01483 443322. www.guildfordspectrum.co.uk Ice Skating on Olympic-sized rink – discos, coaching and special events. Bowling shoes from kids size 6. Swimming.

Redhill & Reigate Artistic Roller Skating Club SKATING PARTIES / FUN SESSIONS Sundays 11.30am-1.25pm at Reigate College Sports Hall, Rushworth Road

LAST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH:

ROLLER DISCOS 6-8pm for all ages

at Hawthorns School, Bletchingley For more details please call Barry on

01293 776266 bbridger@lineone.net

We’re now on Facebook:

Springfit at Oakwood Sports Centre

www.facebook.com/candcdanceschool

Principals: Miss C Walford CDE - AISTD (Dip) Miss C Taylor (Dip Dance Performers Course) Accredited by Council for Dance Education & Training in UK

Free Trial Class!

Tel:

01737 763391

Email:

misswalford@aol.com

Ballet, Modern, Street & Funky Jazz, Tap, Musical Theatre, Mother & Toddler, Mini Movers, Drama, Tread the Boards (Drama, Singing and Dancing)

& Adult classes.

Classes held in Nutfield, near Redhill.

www.candcdanceschool.co.uk

Families Surrey East January-February 2015 15

Town and Community

TOWN & COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD NCT Nearly New Sales and Events

NCT – supporting the National Childbirth Trust For children’s and maternity clothing, toys, equipment, books and anything child related.

REIGATE, REDHILL & HORLEY Check the website for the next sale at St Joseph’s Church, Ladbroke Rd, Redhill RH1 1LF. Also First Aid courses, Bumps, Buggies & Bundles and other regular get-togethers. Tel: 01737 303203. nct.org.uk/branches/redhill-reigate-horley DORKING

Saturday, 7 February, 10.15am-12noon (10am members). £1.

Coffee and cakes! North Holmwood Village Hall, Spook Hill RH5 4JP. Nappuvino! - an evening nappuccino at Red Bar, Dene Street, Dorking, with Surrey Trial Kit of real nappies.

Bumps & Babies first and third Friday, Dorking Halls.

Tel: 0844 243 6107. nct.org.uk/branches/dorking/

CATERHAM & OXTED

Check the website for the next date. 10.45am-12.30pm (10.15 for NCT members). £1.50. Oxted School, Bluehouse Lane, Oxted RH8 0AB. Also – Ante-natal classes, Post-natal coffee groups and First Aid courses. Tel: 0844 243 6076. nct.org.uk/branches/caterham-oxted

LEATHERHEAD

Be part of the Leatherhead group! Volunteer some time to help with courses and sales and support other mums. Check the website for the next sale date. 10am-12noon at Downsend School Leatherhead NNS.Leatherhead@nct.org.uk

Other Nearly New Sales Bumps2Babies Nearly New Sales , Redhill & Caterham.

Entry: £1. Kids go free. Refreshments.

Saturday, 31 January 2015, 2-4pm, St Matthews Church, 71 Station Rd, Redhill, RH1 1DL. Saturday, 28 February, 10am-12pm, United Reformed Church, Harestone Hill, Caterham CR3 6SX. Contact Lisa: 07983 864202 bumps2babiessales.com

Other Sales Shop local at Holmwood Marketplace, North Holmwood Village Hall, Spook Hill RH5 4JP. Crafts and local produce.

Light lunches and afternoon teas until 3.30pm.

Saturdays 24 January and 28 February, 12.30-4pm

BORDER COLLIE PUPPIES FOR SALE Ready 3rd February

2015. 4 girls and two boys, born December 9th, to wonderful mum Ella. Call Candia on 07757 80 19 25.

New Play Session for

children 0-4yrs at St Mark’s Church Hall, Alma Road, Reigate. ‘Play and Pray’, 9am10.30am every Thursday. FREE playtime for children and FREE tea and coffee for mums and dads.

Tadworth Church Panto Good Shepherd Church, Jack & the Beanstalk Tadworth Church Hall, KT20 5AH. A traditional family pantomime with all the usual songs, bad jokes, audience participation, villains and heroes.

Friday, 30th January – 7.30pm, Saturday, 31st Jan - 2pm & 7pm. £8; child £5 Infants < 3yrs on adult’s lap - Free. Box Office: 01737 813152 School Open Days Open Day at Moor House School - Specialist Language Therapy centre near Oxted.

Moor House School & College in Hurst Green is a registered charity and centre of excellence providing specialist education and therapy for children with speech and language difficulties.

Thousands of children have optimised their learning by attending Moor House since its opening in 1947, when it was the only school of its type. Today Moor House continues to offer pioneering, specialised education with intensive speech and language therapy, integrated throughout the curriculum.

If you would like to see what we can offer your child, we are holding a Parents Open Morning on Thursday, 15 January 2015. If you would like to attend, please contact us on 01883 712271 or email admissions@moorhouseschool.co.uk.

RSB announces more ballet & musical theatre for 2015 The Reigate School of Ballet continues its successful expansion with more new classes on offer AND it recently taken over Babyballet in the Reigate area – so it is now offering even more ways for the little ones to start dancing – plus a new class for adults to help our post-Christmas fitness drive come true!

Here is what’s new – all with experienced performers and teachers. Each class offers three free trial classes:Musical Theatre Juniors – Reigate, Tuesdays 4.15-5pm.

Starlight Performing Arts: Drama Ducks – Fridays 10.30-11am. Pre-school boys and girls learn improvisation, play games, use props and nurture the imagination, gaining confidence from an early age.

Street Boppers (Pre-school) – Wednesdays 2.15-2.45pm. Fun-packed dance moves for confidence and co-ordination.

Adult Piloxing – Thursdays 9.30 – 10.30am.

A great way to get into shape using a combination of dance, pilates and boxing moves! Taught by ex-Royal Ballet performer and Piloxing instructor.

To find out more, call Joanne Evans on 01737 247795, or email reigateschoolofballet@ntlworld.com www.reigateschoolofballet.com

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16 Families Surrey East January-February 2015

Club News

CLUB NEWS New teacher at Babyballet January sees a new teacher at the helm of Babyballet and new classes in Nutfieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Old Post, adding to the existing Babyballet classes in Reigate, Redhill & Dorking.

Teacher Emma Benjamin studied with Reigate School of Balletâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Joanne Evans from age 8-18 yrs before taking a degree in Dance, graduating in 2005 and then teaching alongside Joanne at Reigate School of Ballet.

Joanne and Emma are launching the Babyballet classes together, with the first taster sessions taking place in December â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but call Emma or Joanne on 07834 45 20 95, or email eastsurrey@babyballet.co.uk to find out more about Tiny Toes (18+mths) Mini Movers (3-4yrs) and Tots Tap (3+yrs) starting in January! www.babyballet.co.uk

NEW - Reigate Holiday Club at Holmesdale School!

The same team who have been running the very successful afterschool Hokey Cokey club at Holmesdale School, Reigate has just launched a new holiday club for boys and girls 4-11yrs old.

With great indoor and outdoor facilities, including an all-weather surface and woodland, the club provides fun and inspiring holiday club activities.

Flexible play packages make it useful for everyone and costs range from ÂŁ15-ÂŁ30 for half day (8am-1pm), 9am5pm or 8am-6pm. Reigate Holiday Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s professional, qualified team is Ofsted registered. Email Lorna Meares on lorna@kidsnotltd.co.uk. www.reigateholidayclub.co.uk

Tribute to Marie Anti-Gravity Trampolining and Gymnastics Club (AGTC) offers recreational trampolining and gymnastics for all ages, from preschoolers to adults of all abilities at Rebound Hall in William Road, Caterham on the Hill.

The seven-strong team of experienced coaches was led by Marie ManhireClark, a young, vibrant 29 year old. On 2nd November 2014, after suffering from Myocarditis, a heart-related virus, Marie died suddenly.

Marieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s husband, James, wants the work of Anti-Gravity to continue in Marieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name, and helps us remember Marieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work: Marie first got involved in trampolining with her mum from the age of about 10. After competing for Surrey and the UK at her age group she retired from competing to concentrate on running AGTC. The AGTC club offers special needs and mainstream trampolining classes on a daily basis, teaching more than 300 pupils per week.

Marieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s desire and drive to help all pupils is clear to see in the tributes paid to Marie since her passing. She made the life of special needs & mainstream children happier.

Donations to CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young) can be made online at the Virgin giving page by searching for Marie Manhire-Clark. Please visit ag-tc.co.uk for more information on the continuing work of Anti-gravity Trampolining and Gym Club.

A world class dance teacher, teaching locally DANCE DIVISION Tel: 01306 898759 | 07771 874619 info@dancedivision.co.uk | www.dancedivision.co.uk Brockham, Betchworth and Dorking Classes The mark of assurance for safety, quality and professionalism in dance teaching

REGISTERED TEACHER

Free swimming classes with Pool Schools Pools Schools swimming school is responding to the latest news about 7-11yr oldsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; swimming abilities (see page 4) by offering FREE swimming lessons for 4-6 yr olds during term time and in the school holidays.

Children aged 11 yrs are expected to be able to swim at least 25 metres according to National Curriculum requirements, but some schools still donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t teach swimming and some pupils donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have sufficient hours in the water to be able to reach the national standards.

The ability to swim can be lifesaving. Pool Schools has in the past offered free swimming lessons to special needs groups, also for rehabilitation and for adult nonswimmers to build confidence.

40 free places are being offered in Oxtedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 5-week Saturday term-time courses for 4-6yr olds at Hazelwood School. In February, May and October half terms in 2015 Pools Schools is offering free courses in Reigate.You can contact Pool Schools via the website at www.Poolschools.co.uk

REGISTERED TEACHER

TRY SOMETHING NEW TODAY INTRODUCTORY LESSON FREE Experience the Difference and Train with Champions

TRY SOMETHING NEW TODAY lose weight, make new friends!

INTRODUCTORY LESSON 0800FREE 849 6334 / 07584 473784 www.gbacademies.co.uk

Experience the Difference and Train with Champions lose weight, make new friends!

0800 849 6334 / 07584 473784 www.gbacademies.co.uk

Caterham and Coulsdon www.ag-tc.co.uk marie.clark@ag-tc.co.uk

anti-gravity 01883 692091

Redhill, Horley, Crawley and East Grinstead www.springfit.org 0203 478 0203 info@springfit.org

07737 306 316

Caterham and Warlingham www.pointersclub.co.uk pointersclub@googlemail.com

JOIN US FOR FUN AND FOR FITNESS Families Surrey East January-February 2015 17

Nature Notes Christmas Nature Notes Theatre productions

(FUUJOH PVUEPPST JO +BOVBSZ BOE 'FCSVBSZ

Outdoor sessions for schools are growing fast (see p.12) while families are spending less time outside - for all sorts of reasons from safety worries to children’s tantrums, cost and preparation time. However, family time spent outside is ‘together’ time - and fresh air, exercise and vitamin D from sunshine are all essential for growing children!

Outwood Common

Gatwick Greenspace Partnership at Tilgate Park Tuesday, 17 February Build a bird box It’s National Nest Box Week, time to make a home for birds in time for the breeding season. Join the friendly Gatwick Greenspace team in ‘The Barn’ at Tilgate Park, to make up to two bird boxes for your garden. Tools and instruction are provided.

Surrey Hills Estate, NT

British Wildlife Centre

Friday, 20 February make your own garden bird box

BWC, home to the finest collection of native wildlife in Britain, is now open every weekend and daily during state school holidays. Spring half term opening: Saturday, 14 February to Sunday, 22 February.

10am-1pm Encourage birds into your garden with a hand-made house for them to nest in. £15 per person. Westcott venue. Bookings: 01372 220644. National Nest Box week is run by the British Trust for Ornithology: www.bto.org/about-birds/nnbw

Free tracker packs and kites on loan for families Throughout

January and February, families can borrow free tracker packs from the shepherd’s huts at Hindhead Commons and the Devil’s Punch Bowl and Box Hill. The spotter sheets, pencils, paper, binoculars and bug boxes help little ones explore the great outdoors.

Kites can also be borrowed from the shepherd’s hut on breezy days at Box Hill.

Friday, 20 February Wildlife Rangers 12-16yrs at Tilgate Park. Learn

about local wildlife. Every Friday in school holidays. £10 pp. Contact Tom Forward, Community Project Officer, 07771 37 52 54. www.crawley.gov.uk/tilgatepark www.sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk

Open in January 10am to 4pm; February 10am to 5pm. Last admission one hour before closing. Eastbourne Rd (A22), Newchapel, Lingfield RH7 6LF. Tel: 01342 834658. www.britishwildlifecentre.co.uk

Lingfield Nature Reserve Work Parties The Lingfield Nature Reserves occupy a 26acre site in the heart of Lingfield, a mixture of meadows, hedges, woodland copses, a wetland area with ponds and small pools, an orchard, a wildflower meadow and a butterfly garden. Access is free and open to all. A network of both hard-standing and grass paths makes it suitable for pushchairs and wheelchair users.

Join the volunteers for the next monthly work parties on Sundays, 25 January and 22 February, 10am-12noon. Families are welcome.

Sessions at 10am, 11am and 12noon.

Suitable for adults and for accompanied children aged 6+yrs.

Follow signs to the Nature Centre from the car park, Tilgate Park, Crawley, West Sussex, RH10 5PQ. The Barn is next to the entrance of the Nature Centre. Wheelchair access available. Car park costs £1/hr, max charge £5. Members £7.50 Non-members £10. Booking essential: sussexwildlifetrust. org.uk/whatson or call 01273 497561.

Gatwick Greenspace Partnership works in collaboration with Sussex Wildlife Trust.

Pennthorpe School pupils studying nature

Meet at The Butterfly Garden, accessed from Vicarage Road. Contact Anne Richards on 01342 870200 or Sally Cole, 01342 833814. www.lingfieldreserves.org.uk

Ramblers Routes The Ramblers organization promotes walking nationwide and is now much more geared to all age groups, not just the traditional middle-aged profile. Ramblers Routes is an online library of over 2,000 inspiring routes from short urban strolls through to challenging hillside walks for more experienced walkers.

Getting Out and About The National Trust offers wonderful opportunities for getting out and blowing the cobwebs away, from Box Hill to Ranmore Common, Gatton Park to Outwood and Limpsfield Commons.

Each route features a choice of digital maps, with the option to print the route and download GPX data.

Routes include detailed directions so you won’t get lost, plus points of interest. They also tell you if there are any hills or steep inclines on your walk.

Tilgate Park

Register for free. All Ramblers Routes less than 3 miles are free to access – simply register online and you can search all of our short walks immediately. See more at: www.ramblers.org.uk

18 Families Surrey East January-February 2015

Box Hill

Out and about

EVENTS CALENDAR For more outdoor events see Nature Notes, page 18. See also Town & Community Noticeboard, page 16 & Theatres, page 22.

JANUARY 6-17 January Magna Carta facsimile on display. Discover why the Magna Carta was created. Free. Surrey History Centre, 130 Goldsworth Rd, Woking GU21 6ND Tel: 01483 518737. surreycc.gov.uk/heritageevents Friday, 9 January Snappity the Crocodileâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Activities for under 5s.

Fun, songs, stories & crafts with Snappity the Kingston Museum crocodile. Every Friday at 10.15am and 11am. FREE. Kingston Museum, Wheatfield Way, Kingston KT1 2PS. Tel: 020 8547 5006. kingston.gov.uk/museum

Saturday & Sunday, 10-11 January Polesden Lacey (NT).

Discover more about the house.

Limited entry guided tours. Family tours: 11.30am, 1.20pm & 2.20pm.

Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, nr Dorking RH5 6BD Tel: 01372 452048.

Saturday, 10 January Discover!

Fairytales Family event. 3+yrs.

2-3pm. Free. And Young Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event: Painting Workshop â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Using Watercolours. 10.30am-1pm for 1012yrs. Pre-book. ÂŁ7.50. Watts Gallery (also Gallery, Shop and Tea Room), Down Lane, Compton, Guildford, GU3 1DQ. Tel: 01483 810235. wattsgallery.org.uk

Saturday, 17 January until Sun, 15 Feb â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Caring for Clandon.

Weekends, 11am-3pm. 6+yrs. Discover how the Georgians used to look after a large country house and how the National Trust cares for it today.

Normal admission. Clandon Park, West Clandon, Guildford GU4 7RQ nationaltrust.org.uk/clandon-park

FAMILY EVENTS

February Half Term

Monday 16th â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Friday 20th February Daily Craft Activities from ÂŁ1.50 per activity

Saturday, 10 January 5pm-6.30pm Wassail at Dorking Community.

Orchard with Boxhill Bedlam Morris Dancers. Bonfire.Dorkingcommunity orchard.wordpress.com

Saturday & Sunday, 10-11 January Family Fun at Leeds Castle. Also every weekend 10am-6pm - Falconry demonstrations, wildlife walks, trails, adventure playgrounds, yew maze and grotto in 500 acres at Leeds Castle.

Annual ticket: Adults ÂŁ24; Child ÂŁ16. <4s free. Leeds Castle, nr Maidstone (J8 on M20) Kent leeds-castle.com/events

Saturday, 17 January Family Saturday at Dorking Museum.

Craft and activities 2pm-4pm.

The History of the Bicycle.

Family entry: ÂŁ4.50.

Dorking Museum, The Old Foundry, 62 West Street, Dorking RH4 1BS Tel: 01306 876591. dorkingmuseum.org.uk

LEGO EXHIBITION

Saturday, 17 January - 8 March Butterflies in the Glasshouse at RHS Garden Wisley. Hundreds of exotic butterflies will once more be released into The Glasshouse at the Royal Horticultural Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (RHS) Garden Wisley this winter. Open 10.30am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3.30pm (Opens 9.30am w/ ends). The tree ferns, tall palms, lushleaved creepers and dazzling flower displays provide familiar surroundings for the exotic butterflies to fly in freely. Pre-booking advised for weekend and half term visits. Normal admission; free to RHS members.

Woking GU23 6QB rhs.org.uk/wisley

Monday 16th â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Friday 20th February Free admission.

Including daily Lego build 11.30am & 1.30pm.

(Rainbow Trust ÂŁ1.50 charity donation)

16th February 11.00am and 2.00pm, ÂŁ7.25 per child.

LEGO BUILDING WORKSHOP

Wednesday 18th February 11am & 2pm, ÂŁ7.25 per child.

Booking essential.

HENFOLD BIRDS OF PREY

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Swooping byâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Tuesday 17th & Thursday 19th February 10am -2pm, free admission.

TEDDY BEARâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S VALENTINEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DISCO Monday

PUNCH & JUDY

Friday 20th February 10.30am/12 noon/2pm.

Traditional family fun, free admission.

DENBIES WINE ESTATE LONDON RD DORKING SURREY RH5 6AA T: 01306 876616 I RESERVATIONS online at: www.denbies.co.uk

Welcome Wildlife Into Your Family

Bocketts Farm Park 14th - 22nd Feb 2015

FEBRUARY

From just ÂŁ4.00 a month

HALF TERM FUN

ENJOY FREE RANGE FAMILY FUN THIS FEBRUARY HALF TERM!

surreywildlifetrust.org/join

70

US GORWGBEOORN NE BS DUE LAM

HEATED PLAYBARN & SEATING AREA!

â&#x20AC;ş Daily birds of prey flying demonstrations! (Mon-Fri only) â&#x20AC;ş Visit the Pony Parlour â&#x20AC;ş Early Spring lambing starts â&#x20AC;ş Plenty of indoor play & activities

PLUS

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

www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

SPECIAL

OFFER

D AR AW WI NN ING !

ÂŁ2 OFF full price farm entry per person

(max 5 people) valid weekends from 3rd Jan - 8th Feb 2015.

Only with this voucher. Off Peak Winter Weekday rates of ÂŁ6.50 per person apply Mon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Fri until 13th Feb 2015.

Families Surrey East January-February 2015 19

Out and About

EVENTS CALENDAR 20-21 January Toddler Days: ‘Superheroes’ at The Look Out Discovery Centre, Bracknell. Art & craft, face or hand painting and story telling plus the hands-on science and nature exhibition, in 1,000 hectares of Swinley Forest with outdoor adventure play area. £6.65 for parent+toddler, extra toddlers £1.50. Tel: 01344 354400. bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be

Saturday & Sunday, 24-25 January The Big Garden Birdwatch at Claremont Landscape Garden Portsmouth Road, Esher, KT10 9JG Spend an hour identifying birds with the Birds ID Sheet10am, free (normal admission).

FEBRUARY Sunday, 1 February Snowdrop Time at Gatton Park. Rocky Lane, Reigate, RH2 0TW. Gardens & Park open 1-5pm with free guided tours and activities for children including the Wild Things play trail. The bird hide is Downsend School pupils Adults £4; open.

Tea & cakes available. children free. gattonpark.com Sunday, 8 February Snowdrop Day at Gatton Park. Also open 16-20 and Sunday, 22 February for Snowdrop week. Rocky Lane, Reigate, RH2 0TW. Gardens & Park open 12noon4pm Light refreshments. Adults £4; children free. gattonpark.com

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

Saturday, 14 February – Sunday, 22 February 22-24 January The Creative Crafts Show, Sandown Park Exhibition Centre. Portsmouth Rd, Esher KT10 10am-5pm. Day out for crafty mums – demos, offers and workshops.

80 stands. Hands-on craft ideas for children. Free parking. £8 entry.

Accompanied children <16yrs free.

Families Surrey East readers’ discount – quote PR3 to save £1.50 on advance tickets from website. sccshows.co.uk/ index.php/all-events/11-15sj

Saturday, 24 January The Big Garden Birdwatch at The Horniman Museum 11am-3.30pm 100 London Road, Forest Hill, London SE23 3PQ Tel: 020 8699 1872.

Take part in the biggest birdwatch happening across the UK. Help count different birds in the Horniman’s Gardens, finding out about birdsong, and making bird puppets. Free. horniman.ac.uk

PRIORY FARM, Sandy Lane, Nutfield, Redhill RH1 4EJ. Tel: 01737 823304. prioryfarm.co.uk Discovery Walk open daily 9.30am-4pm.

17-19 February Build a bird box or bug box at Wendy’s Workshop, 10.30am-3.30pm. Small cost for workshop, call for details – includes all materials and lots of help!

GATTON PARK EDUCATIONAL TRUST, Rocky Lane, Reigate RH2 0TW. Tel: 01737 649066. gattonpark.com Monday, 16 February Kite-making 8+yrs. 10am-2pm. £10 per child Wednesday, 19 February Tracks and Signs Find clues about the animals of Gatton Park. 10am-12noon or 1.30-3.30pm. £7 per child Friday, 20 February Toddler Trails and Tales 2-4 yrs. 10-11.30am or 1.30-3pm. £7 per child SURREY HISTORY CENTRE, 130 Goldsworth Road, Woking, GU21 6ND Tel: 01483 518737. surreycc.gov.uk/heritageevents Half Term Arts & Crafts. Free, fun history-themed arts and craft drop-in activities. Tues, 9.30-5pm;Wed, 10.155pm; Thurs 9.30-5pm; Fri 9.30-5pm; Sat 9.30-4pm; Closed Sundays and Mondays.

CRANLEIGH ARTS CENTRE 1 High Street, Cranleigh GU6 8AS Tel: 01483 278000. cranleighartscentre.org Saturday, 21 February The Feather Catcher A story of friendship, working together and mischievous feathers. 2pm. 3+yrs £8.

20 Families Surrey East January-February 2015

DENBIES WINE ESTATE, London Rd, Dorking RH5 6AA Tel: 01306 876616. denbies.co.uk Monday, 16 - Friday, 20 February Lego Exhibition including daily Lego build 11.30am & 1.30pm Free admission (Rainbow Trust £1.50 charity donation) Monday, 16 February Teddy Bear’s Valentine’s Disco 11am and 2pm. £7.25 per child Tuesday, 17 February Henfold Birds of Prey ‘Swooping by’ 10am – 2pm Free Admission Thursday, 19 February Henfold Birds of Prey ‘Swooping by’ 10am – 2pm Free Admission Friday, 20 February Punch & Judy 10.30am, 12 noon, 2pm Traditional Family Fun. Free Admission Reservations recommended

BOCKETTS FARM PARK Young Street, Leatherhead KT22 9BS 14 – 22 February February Half term Fun on the Farm for children 0 – 10 yrs.

February marks the start of the Spring lambing. There are up to 90 lambs due from Feb 13th - you may even see one being born! Birds of Prey will also be at the farm Monday-Friday where you can meet them up close and watch the flying demonstrations twice daily, along with the Pony Parlour, which will be open for pony grooming sessions. The full programme of farm activities includes pony rides, tractor rides, animal handling and pig racing.

Outdoors, enjoy the jumping pillows, pedal go-karts and play trails. Then there is the large indoor area with a giant heated playbarn, trampolines, ride-on tractors and a coffee shop means you can have a great day out whatever the weather! £9.20 adults; £9.80 children 3 – 17years. bockettsfarm.co.uk

Out and About

Sheffield Park, National Trust

NATIONAL TRUST PROPERTIES POLESDEN LACEY Great Bookham, nr Dorking RH5 6BD Tel: 01372 452048.

14-22 February Spitfire Kids Help make a spitfire in papier-mâché and learn about World War II on a time capsule trail. 11am-3.30pm. Child £2.

16 & 17 February Children’s Photography Workshops 10.30am – 3pm. £60 Book at: eddiehydephotography.zenfolio.com CLANDON PARK, West Clandon, Guildford GU4 7RQ Tel: 01483 222482. nationaltrust.org.uk/clandon-park 17-19 February Half-term activities and trails. 3-11yrs.

CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN, Portsmouth Road, Esher, KT10 9JG Tel: 01372 467806. nationaltrust.org. uk/claremont-landscape-garden 14-22 February daily: Children’s February Half Term Trail 10am-4pm.

Admission plus 50p for trail CHARTWELL HOUSE & GARDENS, Mapleton Rd, Westerham, Kent TN16 1PS Tel: 01732 868381. nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell 16-20 February Winter Craft Indoor fun in the Mulberry Room, craft activities and games inspired by Sir Winston Churchill, including painting your own picture.

10am-3pm. Admission +£3 per child.

SHEFFIELD PARK AND GARDENS, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QX Tel: 01825 790231. nationaltrust.org.uk/sheffield-parkand-garden 16-20 February Kite-making workshops 11am-12.30pm. £2.50 per child incl materials. Booking advisable on 01825 790302.

HATCHLANDS PARK East Clandon GU4 7RQ. Mon-Fri, 16-20 February Winter Wild Watch at Hatchlands 3-11yrs, Normal admission + £3.

Hatchlands Park is now open February!

Nature-themed trails and activities. nationaltrust.org.uk/hatchlands-park

RHS GARDEN WISLEY, Woking GU23 6QB Tel: 0845 260 9000. rhs.org.uk/wisley 14-22 February Wakey Wakey Wildlife Learn about butterflies, their special senses, and how to plant their favourite flowers. Make pipe cleaner dragonflies, flapping butterflies or caterpillar hats.

10.30am-12.30pm and 1-3.30pm Activities vary daily, so please check our website for details. Free – normal admission applies, includes entry to Butterflies in the Glasshouse.

DORKING MUSEUM The Old Foundry, 62 West Street, Dorking, RH4 1BS Tel: 01306 876591. dorkingmuseum.org.uk Thursday-Saturday, 19-21 February Activities for children.

Interactive activities including historical dressing up outfits, handson exhibits and quizzes to discover the story of Dorking and surrounding areas, from pre-historic times and through the ages. 10am-4pm. £2 adults; £1 5-18 yrs; <5s free KENT & EAST SUSSEX RAILWAY The Station, Tenterden, Kent, TN30 6HE Tel: 01580 765155.kesr.org.uk 14-15 February Thomas the Tank Engine and His Friends at Tenterden Station. Trains at 10.20am, 10.55am, 11.50am, 12.25pm, 1.20pm, 1.55 and 2.50pm. £17 for adults; children >18 months-15 yrs £13; family (2+2) £51.50. First Class £4pp supplement.

Babes < 18 months free on lap!

21-22 February Have a Perfect Day Out with Thomas the Tank Engine at Tenterden Station. See 14-15 Feb.

HEVER CASTLE & GARDENS Hever, Nr Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG Tel: 01732 865224.hevercastle.co.uk 14-22 February Living with Birds.

Celebrate National Nest Box Week with fun and educational activities all the family can enjoy. Build a bird box workshop - £5 includes materials, or join the free craft workshop and learn about bird species.

FISHERS FARM PARK Newpound Lane, Wisborough Green, nr Billingshurst, W. Sussex RH14 0EG Tel: 01403 700063. fishersfarmpark.co.uk Wiggly Week Meet a fang-tastic selection of creepy critters! Snuggle inside the Barn Theatre for a special “Magic Show” and enjoy 1000 sq ft of Indoor Soft Play! Giant Super Slides, Baby Sensory Room – lots going on for a family day out!

THE LOOK OUT DISCOVERY CENTRE Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, RG12 7QW Tel: 01344 354400 bracknell-forest.gov. uk/be Over 90 hands-on science and fun activities and science show in school holidays (17 Jan-4 May ‘Toys in Trouble’ at 11am, 12noon, 2pm and 3.15pm, £1.85pp). Set in over 1,000 hectares of Swinley Forest with orienteering course, walks, trails and picnic areas. Ideal for pre-school and primary+. LOD Admission: Super saver ticket just £19.05 for 2 adults and 2 children or 1 adult and 3 children. Check prices on the website.

WEALD AND DOWNLAND OPEN AIR MUSEUM Town Lane, Singleton, Chichester PO18 0EU Tel: 01243 811363 wealddown.co.uk 16-20 February Wrap up warm for a week of creative activities and countryside skills – outdoor trails, arts and crafts. Under cover if wet. Adults £12 (£10.90 exc. Gift Aid); Child £6.80 (£6.10 exc. Gift Aid).

LIVING WITH BIRDS 14–22 FEBRUARY

Chaffinch

Blue Tit

Song Thrush

Canada Goose

Goldfinch

Green Tit

Kingfisher

Cuckoo

ENJOY SOME FAMILY FUN THIS HALF TERM WITH A BIRD SPOTTING TRAIL, BIRD BOX BUILDING* AND A CRAFT WORKSHOP * £5 charge applies

FOR MORE I NFORM AT ION VI SI T

he verc astl e.c o.u k/w hats on Or call – 01732 865224

Families Surrey East January-February 2015 21

Out and About

THEATRES

REDHILL The Harlequin Theatre

Shows for families and children. Please check ticket prices and times with the theatres.

Warwick Quadrant, Redhill RH1 1NN Tel: 01737 276 500. harlequintheatre.co.uk Saturday morning cinema for children. Tickets cost £2.. Starts 11.30am. And Baby Club screenings for parents/carers with baby (up to 12 mths) – see the website.

Hugless Douglas is looking for a hug. Tuesday, 17 February, 2.30pm. £9.

LEATHERHEAD The Leatherhead Theatre

7, Church Street, Leatherhead KT22 8DN Tel: 01372 365141. Booking fees may apply. Cinema screenings for mums and babes occasional Friday mornings – check the website for films and dates. theleatherheadtheatre.org Treasure Island – live screening from the National Theatre. 10+yrs. Thursday, 22 January, 7pm. £16.70; Child £10.50 (Booking fees apply).

CRAWLEY The Hawth Theatre

Hawth Avenue, Crawley RH10 6YZ Tel: Mon-Sat 10am–8.15pm 01293 553636. hawth.co.uk Free parking, booster seats and a specially created children’s menu at the ArtsCafe!

CHIPSTEAD Chipstead Players Courtyard Theatre

Hazelwood Lane, Chipstead CR5 3QU Box Office: 01737 555680 on Saturday 10-11.30am. chipsteadplayers.org All That Glitters – family entertainment set in the Wild West! Wed-Sat, 7-10 January and 14-17 January, 7.30pm and Sat Mat 2.15pm. £8-£10.

25 Bluehouse Lane, Oxted RH8 0AA Tel: 01959 561811. barntheatreoxted.co.uk PANTO! Babes in the Wood 4+yrs. 9-17 January 2015, aft and eve performances. From £8. Tickets from website or call 01883 7274852.

EAST GRINSTEAD Chequer Mead Community Arts Centre

GUILDFORD The Electric Theatre, Onslow Street, Guildford

The Barn Theatre

DORKING Dorking Halls

Reigate Road, Dorking RH4 1SG Tel: 01306 881717. dorkinghalls.co.uk Friends of Dorking Halls receive discounted ticket prices. Check the website for Saturday morning family cinema and Nappy Mondays.

Swan Lake – Bolshoi Ballet Sunday, 25 January, live screening. £17.

The Sooty Show Live Saturday, February 14, 11am and 2.30pm £15; Child: £13; Family: £46.

Sing-a-long-a-Sound of Music February 20, 7pm. £16.

KINGSTON The Rose Theatre 24-26 High Street,

Kingston KT1 1HL Box Office: 08444 821 556 (24 Hour, fee applies online and phone bookings). rosetheatrekingston.org Pocket Comedy – Shakespeare’s Comedy of Errors for young audiences and Shakespeare beginners.

Tues-Wed, 10-11 February, 1.30pm & 7.30pm. £12.50; Pit £10.50.

Room on the Broom Tues-Sat, 17-21 February, mornings and afternoons. £12.50; Pit £10.50.

OXTED High Jinx Magic, Illusion and Circus Show 8+yrs.

Friday 20 February, 2.30pm.£10; Child £8; Family £32

Jurassic Adventures Wed-Fri, 4-6 February, 4.30pm and Thurs at 10.30am. Theatre. £15.

De la Warr Road, East Grinstead RH19 3BS Tel: 01342 302000. chequermead.org.uk Treasure Island screening from NT Live 10+yrs . Thursday, 22 January, 7pm. £12; child £10. For ticket, call the box office.

Oliver presented by Ardingly Prep School (Youth Production). Friday, 6 February 7pm and Saturday, 7 February 2.30pm. £8; Child £5.

20th Anniversary of the original Toy Story film – relive the magic! Thursday, 19 February, 2pm. £5; Family £15.

Is your child starting school soon?

We can provide wrap around care!

My child has so much fun he never wants to come home!

Mrs E McBride

Breakfast, After School and Holidays Flexible sessions Hot meals Big garden Full week and sibling discount From 4 years Tel: 01293 823163 adventurers@cranbrooknursery.co.uk

www.cranbrooknursery.co.uk 22 Families Surrey East January-February 2015

See our website for further information and our current holiday programme and exciting day trips.

GU1 4SZ Box office: 01483 444789. guildford.gov.uk/electrictheatre Puss in Boots 4+yrs. 17- 21 February, 11am & 2pm. Would you trust a talking cat? With Patrick Lynch from CBeebies. £6.50.

G LIVE London Road, Guildford, GU1 2AA Box Office: 0844 7701 797. glive.co.uk Comedy Club 4 Kids The best comedians. 6-11yrs and their grown ups. Studio. 24 January and 28 February, 3pm. £10. Family: £31.

WIMBLEDON Polka Theatre

240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1SB Box Office 020 8543 4888. polkatheatre.com Grandad, Me..and Teddy Too in the Adventure Theatre. Until 8 February 2015. 2-5yrs. £11.50.

Peter Pan 6+yrs. 21 November – 14 February 2015. Morning, afternoon, and evening performances. £17.50.

HOLIDAY CAMPS & COURSES ALL DAY CAMPS NEW! Reigate Holiday Club at

Holmesdale School, Alma Road, Reigate RH2 0BY. 4-11yrs. 16-20 February 8am-6pm / 9am-5pm or half day 8am-1pm. From £15 to £30 per day. Contact: Lorna on 07789 83 14 06. facebook.com/reigateholidayclub. co.uk reigateholidayclub.co.uk

Cranbrook Adventurers School Holiday Club, Coppingham Cottage, Horley RH6 9EF. 4-11 yrs. 8am-6pm. Open all week. £38.25 per day, £161 per full week. Tel: 01293 823163. cranbrooknursery.co.uk Downsend Pre-Prep+ & Downsend+ at Downsend School, Leatherhead KT22 8TJ. Activities for 2-13 yr olds. 8am-5.30pm. Tel: 07899 01 12 75 (Pre-Prep, 2-5yrs). Tel: 07909 861 280 (6-13yrs). downsend.co.uk

Mega Days at The Hawthorns Sports

Centre, Pendell Court, Bletchingley RH1 4QJ. 4-12 yrs. 16-20 February. 8am-6pm, £42.

Flexihours. Tel: 01883 743377 (ext 2087). hawthorns.com/sports-centre

‘Fit For Sport’ at Dorking Sports Centre,

Reigate Road, Dorking RH4 1SW. Activity Camps – sports, games, arts & crafts. 5-12 yrs. 16-20 February, 8.30am-5.30pm. £38/ day £182 full week. Tel: 0845 456 3233. fitforsport.co.uk

Oakwood Sports Centre Holiday Club, Balcombe Road, Horley RH6 9AB. Mon-Fri, 16-20 February: sports, arts and crafts, games and challenges, Roller Discos, Mini-Olympics etc. 5-12yrs. 8.30am-5.30pm extended day, £110 full week. blueleisure.com

Camp Beaumont Day Camps at

Claremont Fan Court School, Portsmouth Rd, Esher KT10 9LY. Mon-Fri, 16-20 February, 8.30am to 5.30pm. Up to 40 activities, from archery, arts & crafts, soccer, tag rugby, tennis, motorsports, dance & drama, basketball, and more. 4-16yrs.

From £47 per day. Tel: 01263 823000. campbeaumont.co.uk/daycamps

Reigate & Redhill YMCA Playscheme,

Princes Rd, Redhill RH1 6JJ. 16-20 Feb, 10am4pm or 8.30am-6pm. 4+ -12yrs. £18 / £27 per day. Also in Banstead. Tel: 01737 779979. ymcaredhill.com/children

YMCA Yippee Playscheme, Sovereign

Centre, Woodhatch, Reigate. For children with disability. 10am-4pm. 4-12 yrs. £18 per day. Tel: 01737 222859. ymcaredhill.com

Kestrels Children’s Centre, Croydon

Out and About Priory Events Sandy Lane, Nutfield RH1

4EJ. Multi-Activity Days (MAD) Wednesday, 18 February and other days by arrangement for groups of 10+. Obstacle Course, Archery and Quad Bike Challenge. 8-15yrs. 10.45am3pm. Tel: 01737 822484. prioryevents.co.uk

The Adventure Zone and TAZ Families at High Ashurst, Mickleham, Dorking RH5 6DQ. Adventure Days for 8-13 yr olds and Family days. Tel: 01372 378901. surreycc.gov.uk/theadventurezone

ARTS AND CRAFTS Cookies Kitchen Holiday Workshop, Leigh Village Hall nr Reigate. 5-11yrs. For February details call 07749 92 77 83 or book at cookieskitchen.co.uk

CLIMBING High Sports Indoor Climbing Centre,

K2 Leisure Centre, Crawley RH11 9BQ. Holiday Tasters (4+yrs) and Half-day fun days. Tel: 0845 363 1177. high-sports.co.uk/crawley

DANCE and DRAMA CATS the Musical - Reigate School of

Ballet, Theatre Workshop. Reigate / Redhill.

February Half term. 5+yrs. Taught by a professional West End Cats performer!

Contact: Joanne Evans on 01737 247795. reigateschoolofballet.com

Roald Dahl’s Fantastic Mr Fox Play In A Week Workshop at The Hawth, Crawley.

Mon-Fri, 16-20 February, 10.30am-3.30pm.

6-10yrs. Performance on Friday, 4pm.£80.

Tel: 01293 859953. hawth.co.uk

Mini and Junior Girls 6-14yrs. Call Lynn & Maggie: 07896 90 23 71. pitchero.com/clubs/girlsattack

RIDING Orchard Cottage Riding Stables,

Babylon Lane, Lower Kingswood KT20 6XA. February half term Pony Days: How to look after a pony, a riding lesson, games and gymkhana. 5+yrs incl total beginners.

9am-3.30pm. £60/day. Tel Claire: 01737 241311. ocrs.co.uk

Kingsmead Equestrian Centre,

Kingswood Lane, Warlingham. MondaySunday, 9am-5pm. Intensive riding courses, Pony Share Days and ‘Own a pony for a day’. 5+yrs. Fiona Tel: 0208 657 0832. kingsmeadhorses.co.uk

Reigate Heath Golf Club 3-day golf camps, flexible times. 4+yrs. Clifford Gough Tel: 01737 242610 . reigateheathgc.com Betchworth Park Golf Club Holiday

Camps, Dorking. Wed & Thurs, 18 & 19 February, 10am-3pm. 5+yrs. £25 per day or £40 for both. Contact: Tom Bridger, 07535 55 81 19. tombridger.co.uk

GYMNASTICS – see also TRAMPOLINING Springfit Freestyle Gymnastics and Trampolining – see Trampolining

Tandridge Leisure Centre, Oxted and de Stafford, Caterham. Beginners & Improvers. 4+yrs. Tel Oxted: 01883 716717 Tel Caterham: 01883 344355. tandridgetrust.co.uk Dorking Sports Centre Swim School

‘crash courses’ in February half term, mornings. Reigate Rd, Dorking RH4 1SN. Tel: 01306 870185. dorkingsportscentre.co.uk

Sunday family roller skating,

Tennis Camps at Redhill Lawn Tennis Club, Linkfield Lane, Redhill

Reigate College Sports Hall, Rushworth Road RH2 0QF. Sundays, 11.30-12.30pm fun skating. 12.30-1.25pm Lessons, Grades 1-9, 3+yrs. Skate hire, Fun skate & Lesson £8.

Tel: 01293 776266. rrarsc.co.uk

SKIING Bowles Outdoor Centre, Sandhill

SPORTS – MIXED

GOLF

Dunottar School, Reigate and Hazelwood School, Oxted. 40 free places in school holidays at Reigate’s Dunottar School: Wed-Fri, 18-20 Feb for 4-6 yr olds FREE! For beginners only.

Crash Courses at Reigate Grammar (18-20 Feb) and Hazelwood (16-18 Feb): 60% discount when booking February half term and Easter courses. 50% off for one crash course - £25 per course. Discounts apply until 30 January!

Tel: 0845 604 2476. Poolschools.co.uk

TENNIS & RACKET SPORTS

Futsal Focus Academy (FFA) Book

online. The FFA offer classes, leagues, camps & tournaments for all abilities aged 2 - 16 years based in Surrey & London. Tel: 0844 318 1700. futsalfocusacademy.com

Pool Schools at Reigate Grammar School,

ROLLER SKATING

FOOTBALL & FUTSAL

Reigate & Banstead taster sessions incl trampolining, badminton, Show in a Day (performing arts), archery and squash. 16-20 February. 7-15yrs. From £3 per session. For more details call: 01737 276700. reigate-banstead.gov.uk

SWIMMING Donyngs Leisure Centre Redhill RH1

1DP Swimming beginners: Tues-Thurs, 17-19 February. 3+yrs. Also Junior beginner diving course: Mon-Wed, 16-18 February £14.25 for 3-day course. Call: 01737 764732. betterlessons.org.uk/holiday

RH1 1JW. 4+yrs. 9.30am-12.30pm. £12/£11. Contact Tim: 07956 38 35 35. redhilltennisclub.co.uk

Junior Tennis Camp at The Limpsfield Club RH8 0DH. Tel: Derek 01883 714079. limpsfieldtennis.co.uk

Matchpoint Tennis Courses at Hurst Green RH8 9BQ. 5+yrs. Call: 01883 717161. matchpointtennis.co.uk

TRAMPOLINING & GYMNASTICS Springfit Gymnastics and Trampoline Club, St Bede’s School, Carlton Rd, Redhill RH1 2LQ. Wednesday, 18 February, 4.30-6pm.

Mixed ability ‘Open’‘Freestyle’ gymnastics or trampoline (boys and girls). 4+yrs. £8.50.

Trampolines, air track, vaults, trampette, beam, ropes and more. Contact: Adam Reynolds. Tel: 07932 752081. springfit.org Trampolining Mega Session, Caterham on the Hill. Anti-Gravity trampolining, fun and games. 4+yrs.

Tel: 01883 620971. ag-tc.co.uk Acrobounce with Pointers Gymnastics

and Trampoline Club at Warlingham School 4+yrs. Tel: 07737 30 63 16. pointersclub.co.uk

DK Gymnastics at Aberdour School,

Brighton Road, Burgh Heath KT20 6AJ. 1620 February. Boys and girls 4-16yrs.

Tel: 07709 413854. dkgymnastics.co.uk

KARTING

CAMPS – OUTDOORS & ACTIVE

Junior Karting – Arrive & Drive, Daytona

Lacey Estate, Great Bookham nr Dorking in February half term. 10.15am-4pm. 5-12yrs.

Fun, adventure and creativity in the woods.

Coming soon! Buchan Country Park, Crawley. £42/day. Tel: 01483 424 400. wild-learning.net

Girls Attack! Netball Workshops Oxted.

Lane, Eridge Green, Tunbridge Wells TN3 9LW. Day and half-day courses in skiing and snowboarding. 16-20 February. £50 / £30.

8-15yrs. Saturday Ski Club, weekend ski courses 8-14yrs. Also private lessons £50/hr.

Tel: 01892 665 665. bowles.ac

Road, Caterham CR3 6QH. 7.30am6pm. 3-11 yrs. Tel: 01883 348641. kestrelschildrenscentre.co.uk

Wild Learning Holiday Camp Polesden

NETBALL

Sandown Park, Esher KT10 8AN. 7-15yrs and Bambinos 5-7yrs. Booking essential.

Tel: 0845 644 5502. daytona.co.uk

MOUNTAIN BOARDING Ride the Hill Group and private sessions.

8+yrs. Priory Farm, Nutfield RH1 4EJ. Tel: 01737 8224458. ridethehill.com

Families Surrey East January-February 2015 23

Out Local and News About

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ing a Fe 25 per course £ se ur co 60% off when bo ok sh a cr e ing on 50 % of f when book 30th January 2015 Discounts apply to

To apply and for more information tel: 0845 604 2476 email: info@poolschools.co.uk

www.poolschools.co.uk 24 Families Surrey East January-February 2015