Families London Surrey Borders Jan/Feb 2016

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January/ February 2016

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Editor’s welcome As a parent, I can without a doubt say that some of my most delicious and silly moments shared with my son have been playing yoga games together.

London-Surrey Borders Magazine Editor: Tamar Pearson 01923 775680 editor@families-LSB.co.uk www.families-LSB.co.uk Next issue: March/ April 2016 Booking deadline: 12 February Copy deadline: 18 February 21,000 Copies printed and 42,000 readers per issue Printed by The Manson Group, Tel: 01727 848440 Designed by Rebecca Carr, Tel: 07789882467

In this issue...

4

Local News

5

Clubs and Classes

6

Nursery News Board

7

Why Nursery Education is so important

8

Nursery Directory

12

Nursery Programmes

15

Age appropriate Birthday Parties

16

Winter Party Ideas

19

February Half Term

21

What’s On

23

Classified ads

Disclaimer: Families London Surrey Borders Magazine is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families ® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families LSB Magazine is fully protected by copyright and non of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. 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.

My Little Boy Wonder, is a beautiful child with a gentle heart, and an amazing ability to lose himself to the imaginary world of play. On some mornings, as I now realise most parents do I was only focused on being on time, and getting out and rush, rush, rush ……RAGE. Stop. Fortunately, my personality type tends to meander more than rush, so on most occasions I managed to calm and remember what is most important at that exact moment. The moment, and the two of us. And out would come out Yoga cards. Then we would be in a heap of entwined giggles, absolutely in love with each other and the deliciousness of the day again.

So when I had the opportunity to review Yoga for You and your Child, by Mark Singleton I thought this the best New Year’s gift I could pass on to you, my readers and your children.

Yoga for You and Your Child is a comprehensive introduction to the inspirational world of yoga for children with 40 yoga positions perfectly adapted to make them safe, effective and fun for children. The book contains everything you need to know to start practising yoga with your child.

To purchase Yoga for You and Your Child for £12.99 visit www.watkinspublishing.com/shop/yoga-for-you-and-your-childby-mark-singleton

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WI

To welcome in a New Year, Families LSB is lucky enough to have 5 copies of Yoga for You and Your Child, hot off the press as a reader give away. To enter please visit www.families-lsb.co.uk/competitions. Entries close on 31st January.

Terms and conditions do apply.

Another wonderful publication that presented itself to me, which I thought a rather well suited entry to the New Year is Zen & the Path of Mindful Parenting, an enlightening guide to how families can develop awareness in everyday life. The author, Clea Danaan reveals how sharing meditative practices and activities with children promotes calm, and the balance to thrive in a frantic modern world.

Zen & the Path of Mindful Parenting is quite simply an additional tool in our tool box to raise perfectly happy children whilst staying happy and healthy ourselves.

You can purchase Zen & the Path to Mindful Parenting for £8.99 from www.ivypress. co.uk/books/zen-the-path-of-mindful-parenting/#sthash.sBzrptRO.dpuf Wishing you all a beautiful New Year filled with belly laughs and dancing sun beams, and of course great success in all the other serious stuff that holds life together.

Tamar xx

London Surrey Borders

3

News & views

News & Views Roll on Summer of 69 with an evening at the at Sandown Park this August

Let this summer take you back to your youth with the ‘’Summer of 69’’ as an Evening at the Races returns for 2016. Multi-platinum recording artist Bryan Adams will be rocking Sandown Park in style with his greatest hits and new tracks from his latest album on Thursday, 4th August.

“I’m delighted to be back on the road this year. It will give me an opportunity to perform tracks from my latest album, Get Up, as well as some of my earlier classics. It’s going to be a special show, performing outdoors at Sandown Park and I hope my fans can join me, “Bryan Adams". Don’t miss out this unforgettable experience. Tickets on sale at www.thejockeyclublive.co.uk.

The Big Garden Birdwatch Last year over half a million people took part in the RSPB's Big Garden Birdwatch, spotting more than 8.5 million birds across the UK, and the organisers are hoping this year's watch will be a record-breaking event.

This year's survey takes part on 30 and 31 January. To take part, simply spend one hour counting the birds in your garden or local park, and record the highest number of each bird species seen at any one time.

The morning is the best time to look, when the birds are out and about feeding after a cold winter night.

To sign up for a free Big Garden Birdwatch 2016 pack or go to the website: www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch.

A hugely successful crowd funding campaign brings back the Blossoming Rose street market

Jacqueline Wilson, author of Tracy Beaker, heads up ReadingZone Festival Celebrating the ReadingZone Festival, bestselling author Jacqueline Wilson will be live at Bourne Hall Theatre in Ewell on Saturday 6th February. The ReadingZone festival will include a wide ranging, free schools programme, and much to any Beast Quest fans, there will also be a Beast Quest event and a programme of free, creative activities for children that afternoon.

From 2pm - 3pm Jacqueline Wilson will be talking about her work and taking questions from the audience. From 2 - 5pm Picture book authors and illustrators will be reading stories in the library for preschool children and running free, creative workshops for children. From 4 4.45pm Beast Quest Adventure for children aged 6+ in which children can take part in a tournament and find out more about the Beast Quest world. Tickets for Jacqueline Wilson and Beast Quest events cost £5 each and can be booked via the Epsom Playhouse booking office on 01372 742555 / 742227.

Everyone Active named Facility Operator of the Year by the ASA for fifth year running Everyone Active – which operates Cheam Leisure Centre and Westcroft Leisure Centre in partnership with Sutton Borough Council has been named Facility Operator of the Year at the annual ASA Swimtastic Awards for the fifth consecutive year. Areas which were assessed to achieve this award include the progress of children enrolled on swimming lessons at its facilities, the range of ASA products and services delivered and teacher training and development.

To find out about swimming lessons or water-based activities on offer call Cheam Leisure Centre on 020 8644 2891, Westcroft Leisure Centre on 020 8669 8666 or visit www.everyoneactive.com.

The much loved Blossoming Rose street market will return on Wednesday 10 February after a crowd-funding campaign was launched to re-establish the once-popular traders’ market. Initially the street market will operate weekly, and then twice-weekly once it has become established.

Anyone interested in having a pitch at Rosehill Market they should contact the Rosehill Traders Association at info@rose-hilltraders.co.uk.

www.dolphinswimschools.co.uk 020 8640 4488 4

January/ February 2016

www.families-LSB.co.uk

Clubs & Classes

Clubs & Classes news Boom Arts Academy launching a dance school at Shirley Harris Academy in January

A friendly greeting from the new owners of Glazed All Over

Led by professionals in the industry, and teachers from the BRIT School, Boom Arts Academy is a captivating performing arts school that provides the best tuition and has the highest standard of teaching, accessible to all levels.

Specialising in dance and theatre Boom Arts Academy offers a wide range of styles including street dance, jazz, ballet, tap, modern dance, and acting and singing. Boom Dance Crew auditions coming soon. For more information on term time classes, and holiday workshops call Isla on 0756 235575, or visit the website: www.boomartsacademy.com

The importance of Multi-Sport The EzeeSport mission is to give children of all abilities a sporting chance to develop a love for sport that will set them on a pathway towards an active and healthy lifestyle.

Along with Peter and Fiona Crossman, EzeeSport founders and directors, numerous sports scientists believe that it is important for children to develop fundamental movement and sports skills from as young as 2, that then allows them to be able to take part in a wider range of formal sporting activities.

The Ezee Sports programme teaches children invaluable life lessons, such as sportsmanship, problem solving, and improved communication skills, as well as working within a team and independently to set them up for a bright and confident future. For more information on EzeeSports Ltd visit www.ezeesport.com

Book early to avoid disapointment Contact Tee Paul for details

020 8660 9208 07904229112 teepaul@singandsign.co.uk www.singandsign.co.uk

As of January 2016 Tamsin Christie will be starting new Moo Music classes in Epsom and Ewell. Moo Music is a great fun and interactive regular music session for 0 to 5 year old children and their parents, grandparents or carers too, where the children sing, dance, play, learn and have fun while doing it. The interactive sessions will help your child gain confidence and develop memory, language and coordination skills in an exciting, enjoyable and multi-sensory way.

Go and join the fun with Maggie Moo, Ollie Oink, Doris Duck, Henry Horse, Holly Hen and Barry Baa, and make some friends too. For more information please contact Tamsin on 07983 685 102

After giving birth to a premature baby, and receiving warnings from the Doctor, Tee Paul went on a journey researching the development of a baby’s brain. It was then that she started researching ways of stimulating brain development and came across Sing and Sign and a while later Sing and Sign Coulsdon is now open. For more information on how to join these remarkable classes call Tee on 07904229112, or teepaul@singandsign.co.uk

Win an EzeeSport February Half Term Holiday Club Voucher and a Pair of EzeeBats and EzeeBall, valued up to £50. Families LSB has teamed up with EzeeSport to give your child a taster session into the wonderful world of Multi Sports this February Half Term. Visit www.families-lsb. co.uk/competitions to enter. Closes on Friday 1st February. Terms and Conditions apply.

What does your baby want to say?

Join our classes in Coulsdon to find out

There is a new Moo near you

New Sing and Sign classes in Coulsdon

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I’m too young to talk yet, but you’ll be amazed at what I can tell you.

Laura and Kerry are the new owners of Glazed All Over, a pottery and craft studio in Wallington. Having been customers at Glazed All Over in the past they are super excited to now be running such a fun and friendly creative business. Together, they have experience in a variety of crafts but have particular interest in textiles and photography, and are planning to expand the activities currently on offer. With lots of new exciting classes and activities planned for 2016 keep an eye on their website www. glazedallover.co.uk and Facebook page www. facebook.com/glazedallover for all their updates and news.

I’m hungry I’m tired Change my nappy

...and more

To book a space to promote your business in our next Clubs & Classes news Call 01923 775680

wi Fr th ee th t is ri ad al ve rt

Dance and Theatre School for ages 4 – 16 and adults Classes currently held in Shirley, Kenley, Caterham and Purley BOOMARTSACADEMY.COM BOOMARTSACADEMY@HOTMAIL.COM Call now: 07562355755

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

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

T: 07920854714 W: www.turtletots.com

Imaginative Drama Classes

Growing Buds 2 - 4 years Full Blooms 4 - 7 years Budding Actors 7 - 10 years Classes in Carshalton, Cheam, dramabuds Croydon & Worcester Park adventure 020 8669 2355 parties too

www.dramabuds.co.uk

PURLEYPOINTES SCHOOL OF DANCE

LET PROFESSIONAL BALLET DANCERS NURTURE & INSPIRE YOUR CHILD

PURLEYPOINTES.CO.UK AT COULSDON COMMUNITY CENTRE PURLEYPOINTES@GMAIL.COM CALL 07958 725862 FOR YOUR FREE TRAIL Emma Northmore is an ex-English National Ballet dancer & vocational ballet teacher PDTD QTLS LLUK

London Surrey Borders

5

Nursery special

Nursery News Board Seaton House Nursery Graduates receive their Honours Graduation day in the Seaton House Nursery is a very special occasion. The children from Upper Nursery are gowned and crowned with their Mortar boards before receiving their Degrees from Nursery Manager, Mrs Sarah McGreevy.

In front of an assembled audience of proud parents and family members in the Nursery garden, the children take turns in recounting a favourite memory of their year in Upper Nursery.

The Nursery education at Seaton House offers the children the very best of starts – only another seventeen years of education before they receive the real thing at university!

Headmistress, Mrs Debbie Morrison commented “It is so lovely to see how much the children have gained from their time in Nursery here. We are very lucky to have such a dedicated and enthusiastic team of staff in the Nursery who support, encourage and engage with the children from the moment they arrive – the end result is clear for all to see.”

For further information call 020 8642 2332, or visit www.seatonhouse.sutton.sch.uk

Nursery Improvements Parents can be confident that their child will be as well looked after at nursery as they can at home thanks to a new initiatives Millie’s Mark, a scheme which means that every nursery will have first-aid trained staff in the nursery at all times.

Following the death of Millie Thomson who choked and died at her nursery in 2012, her parents Joanne and Dan have successfully campaigned for government to ensure that all newly qualified staff with the childcare level 2 and 3 qualification will automatically have training in emergency paediatric first aid or a full paediatric first aid certificate.

Nurseries that reach a ‘gold standard’ of care will receive a certificate to display, known as Millie’s Mark. This will give parents reassurance that their child is being cared for by a range of trained professionals' should something go wrong.

6

January/ February 2016

Woodland School introduced to Nursery week at Priory Prep The boys in the Early Years department at Priory Prep have enjoyed taking part in a variety of ‘’Woodland’’ activities which are designed to enhance their learning by gradually building up their skills and confidence of working and playing in a natural environment.

All dressed up in their wellies and waterproofs The Nursery and Reception children, were very excited and thoroughly enjoyed the experience of collecting leaves, splashing in puddles and generally investigating the site.

Teachers found it fascinating to observe and listen to all the children as they used good vocabulary and thought of different ways to approach tricky situations, and were amazed to see the laughter and excitement displayed by the children when they were allowed to use their wonderful imaginations to find solutions to the problems they were faced with.

Priory Prep boys will be revisiting the Woodland School in the Spring Term. Visit: www.priory-banstead.surrey.sch.uk For more information.

£25.000 Investment gives Croydon Nursery a new lease on life The Co-operative Childcare on Dunley Drive has completely refurbished its existing building, and opened another homeroom to cater for the rising demand in places.

The refurbishments have creating a beautiful garden area with new playhouses, a mud kitchen and a planting area where the children can grow and pick their own produce.

The nursery in New Addington is rated ‘good’

by Ofsted, and cares for children aged three months to five years. In addition to their own extensive facilities, they enjoy a close relationship with the local primary school and share use of the ball pool and sensory room.

For more information call 0800 954 0669 or visit www.thecooperativechildcare.co.uk

The Early Years department at St Christopher’s win National ISA Art Competition Every year the Independent Schools Association (ISA) holds regional art competitions all around the country to celebrate incredible art happening at schools belonging to the association .The contest is hard fought with age groups from Nursery to 6th Form.

A huge congratulation to the Reception pupils at St Christopher’s who claimed an award for their magnificent 'Princess Dress' inspired by the book of the same name. The children had made this by creating their own vivid felt made out of Merino Wool rubbed together with soapy water. The children then (with assistance) ironed strands of 'Angelica' fusing and stitched these into the dress adding jewels for extra effect.

High quality care and education settings across London.

Caring for babies from 3 months to children up to 5 years of age.

0333 920 0411 brighthorizons.co.uk parentenquiry@brighthorizons.com

www.families-LSB.co.uk

Nursery special

Why is Nursery Education important?

By Sarah McGreevy Nursery Manager, Seaton House School ‘Education is not filling buckets but lighting fires’ William Butler Yeats Starting Nursery is an important step in a child’s life and an important decision for their parents. But why is it so important and how can parents ensure they get the best possible start for their child?

The value of high quality Nursery education has been recognised for many years by professionals working with children and by parents. It is also supported by research such as EPPE (Effective Provision of PreSchool Education) and REPEY (Research Effective Pedagogy in Early Years).

Early Years education has been shown to provide children with a firm foundation for future achievement not only in their school life but well into adult life. Some of the positive effects of Nursery education can be seen quite quickly as children learn to socialise, build relationships and learn new skills. However, some of the benefits are less obvious initially but are arguably even more important. Nursery education nurtures the skills and attitudes which will support children in later life. These ‘Characteristics of Effective Learning’ include; self-esteem, enthusiasm for learning, problem solving, curiosity and perseverance. These are the skills that will inspire lifelong learning and encourage self-motivation and independence.

It is widely recognised that the first 6 years of life represent a period of rapid development. Learning takes place at a faster rate than during any other phase of life. Every parent knows that their child is amazing; by 3 years old they have learned to walk and talk and are rapidly making sense of their world. Nursery education offers an opportunity to support and develop these skills further, nurturing social and emotional development, supporting self-esteem, developing curiosity and questioning and inspiring enthusiasm and motivation for learning.

The development of language and mathematical skills begins at birth and as children start Nursery the teachers are able to identify a child’s understanding and skills and build on these offering opportunities to not only learn the skills needed to become a reader, writer and mathematician but also the interest, enthusiasm and drive to succeed at it.

Nursery is often the child’s first experience of being away from close family, the first step into education and schooling. The learning and development of each child is a joint venture between the Nursery, child and family. Nursery can provide support and ideas to help parents to extend their child’s

thinking and skills at home and parents can share a wealth of information and knowledge about their child’s interests and experiences.

Selecting the right Nursery for your child can be a big step and there are a number of things that can support parents when making their choice. Inspection reports provide information about the quality of the environment and education provided.

However, visiting the Nursery is also essential because that will enable parents to experience the ‘atmosphere’ within the Nursery and the relationships between the children and the staff. This also provides an opportunity to find out more about the ethos of the Nursery and type of provision offered. A small Nursery is able to provide a more homely feel which can help young children when making the transition into school life. For working parents Nursery can provide seamless provision across the day, minimising the disruption and ensuring continuity for the child.

Nursery should provide an environment to excite and inspire young children both inside and outside. The environment,

setting and resources within a Nursery are important and are often the most obvious thing to compare when looking at Nurseries.

However, the environment is only part of the provision and the quality of the staff within the Nursery is far more important. The key to maximising the child’s learning is the way in which the adult develops and extends the child’s interest and passions to support their learning and development.

The ratio of adults to children varies from Nursery to Nursery. The higher the ratio of staff to children the more individual attention children can receive. This also affects the relationship between the adults and children because the staff are able to really get to know each individual child and their interests.

The training and qualifications of the adults working with young children are also important. Working with small children is demanding but incredibly rewarding. Adults working with children need to have a good understanding of how children develop and how best to support their learning and development. Qualifications such as the NVQ level.3, Early Years Professional Status (EYPS), Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and NNEB mean that the adults have had experience of working with young children and have achieved a qualification to support this.

Research by The Effective Provision of Pre-School Education (EPPE) Project (Sylva, Melhuish, Sammons, SirajBlatchford, Taggart and Elliot ’03) identified that in settings which had staff with higher qualifications, especially trained teachers, the result was higher quality and the children made more progress.

The role of Nursery education is to excite and inspire young children. We are nurturing the leaders of tomorrow!

London Surrey Borders

7

Nursery special

Nursery Directory

Downsend School

Brightsparks Day Nursery Brightsparks Purley - 020 8660 2340 Bright sparks Purley Way - 020 8667 0687 Brightsparks Old Coulsdon - 01737 552646 Brightsparks Selsdon - 020 8651 3191 Brightsparks New Malden - 020 8329 9777

Croydon High Nursery Refurb

Croydon High School Old Farleigh Rd, Croydon CR2 8YB 020 8260 7508 admissions@cry.gdst.net www.croydonhigh.gdst.net

Curriculum outside and extend their outdoor learning. The children measure rainfall in centimetres, sort leaves by colour and shape, set up experiments to find out which animals live in the school garden, making plaster casts of the footprints, and are about to embark on making bird boxes. They even take traditional story tales outside and the children act them out.

When your daughter joins Croydon High Nursery, she’ll be welcomed into a warm and caring environment where learning is fun and being happy is always the most important thing. With years of experience teaching girls, Croydon High Nursery know that girls respond best when they feel secure and happy.

Sarah Bradley, Head of the Pre-Prep commented, ‘What we, as teachers, have noticed is how the children’s language and vocabulary has grown, how their imagination has developed and that they are thinking for themselves. Even the busiest of children are finding it easier to focus.

Girls join the Nursery following their third birthday and they can stay for mornings (8.30am – 12pm) or full days (8.30am-3pm), although a minimum of five mornings is expected. Croydon High Nursery is a very special place welcoming visitors at all times, so why not and see for yourself? Please contact the Junior school secretary on 020 8260 7508 to arrange a visit.

Ewell Castle Junior and Senior Church St, Ewell, KT17 2AW 020 8393 1413 www.ewellcastle.co.uk

Brightsparks Day Nurseries provide parttime and full-time care in a safe, stimulating and enjoyable environment.

Bright Horizons Teddies Sutton 02037803046 Carshalton Day Nursery 02382023077 North Cheam Day Nursery 02037803037 Wishing Willow Day Nursery and Preschool 01737303976 Teddies Epsom 01372232986 Teddies Raynes Park 02037803048 Blue House Day Nursery and Preschool 02037807952 Teddies Epsom 01372232986 www.brighthorizons.co.uk Bright Horizons is the UK’s leading nursery network and is trusted to provide children and families with naturally inspiring, exception care and education for early years. With over 200 nurseries in the UK and Ireland, many of which are managed in partnership with employers.

Downsend School Pre-Prep, Epsom 6 Norman Ave, Epsom, KT17 3AB 01372 372311 www.downsend.co.uk Downsend School’s Pre-Prep has developed a woodland garden and created a woodland and nature school. Every opportunity is made to take Early Years

www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk

Ewell Castle Nursery offers a warm, caring and stimulating environment for children at the start of their school life. The children learn and play in the purpose-built Nursery building, and benefit from new facilities and a bright, spacious area. In the Outdoor Area, children can play in a quiet area, on the climbing frame or in their own castle!

All children are individuals, and at Ewell Castle Nursery, each child is given the time and space to grow and be themselves; becoming confident, independent learners.

All Nursery children take part in 3 productions each year, including the very successful and valued Grandparents’

The Lotus Practice Now offering ü Cranio-sacral therapy ü Baby Massage Courses

Smaller school.

Bigger opportunities.

Personal attention.

Great results.

Affordable.

Scholarships available

OPEN MORNING TUESDAY 8th MARCH 11.00-13.00 For full list of open mornings, enrolment and fee details contact 020 7228 3933 Thames Christian College, London SW11 2HB. Five minutes’ walk from Clapham Junction.

8

January/ February 2016

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

) 07956442223 : thelotus@hotmail.co.uk 8 www.thelotuspractice.com www.families-LSB.co.uk

Nursery special Kingswood House School

Ewell Castle

Startel Day Nursery SM6 0HN - 020 8669 4898 www.jancett.co.uk

Coffee morning, where the children sing and perform for delighted families! Children are supported with focused learning opportunities each day across the Early Years Curriculum and are encouraged in every way to reach their potential, whilst making new friends and feeling part of their happy Nursery.

Fennies Under 5s Day Nurseries 020 8770 3222 Fennies have 20 years' experience of providing high quality children’s day nurseries in modern, wonderfully resourced settings, allowing babies, toddlers and preschool children to learn, play and flourish.

Jancett Childcare Gaytime Day Nursery SM6 OEU - 020 8647 7652 Jancett Baby Unit SM6 8QP - 020 8773 2922 Jancett Day Nursery SM6 8QP - 020 8773 8142 Ripples Pre School SM5 2FJ - 020 8669 1725

Jancett Group of Day Nurseries focus upon the learning and development of pre-school children, aiming for a daily environment in which they can thrive, feeling free to express themselves, communicate and be creative.

While sound education is the aim of the provider, all steps are taken to ensure the good health, hygiene and security of each child, with any specific requirements taken into account upon admission and parents regularly consulted.

Jelly Beans Pre-School Ltd 0208 643 7378 Sessional nursery education for children from 2 years old, term time only.

Sessions available: 9am - 3pm for 38 weeks of the year. Morning, afternoon and all day sessions are available, subject to availability.

Kingswood House School 56 West Hill, Epsom, Surrey. KT19 8LG 01372 723590 Mrs Helen Parker admissions@kingswoodhouse.org www.kingswoodhouse.org

Kingswood House is one of the most successful boy’s prep schools in Surrey. A thriving community in the heart of Epsom, small class sizes, friendly atmosphere and first-class teaching ensure the pupils flourish academically and outside the classroom. Boys participate in every aspect of school life in a secure and spacious environment. Developing KHS for the future, KHS have a new impressive Junior School and an inspirational Pre-Prep Department. the Toddler Group, Kingswood Kids, provides the perfect introduction, meeting every Tuesday during term-time at 10:30am. KHS work extremely closely with a range of prestigious senior schools so pupils can be sure they are moving on to the right school for them. Year 8 Leavers achieve outstanding results with a range of Scholarships awarded every year.

KHS ISI Inspection Report in October 2014 rated us Excellent in every area.

NEW from our Senior Years' September 2016, places available for Year 9.

FULL/PART-TIME DAY CARE FOR CHILDREN AGED 6 MONTHS TO 5 YEARS Monday to Friday, 8 am – 6 pm A modern, purpose-built nursery located within The Sports Village which includes on-site dance, gymnastics, tennis, football, soft play and Jo Jingles sessions as part of the weekly program.

Open Mornings Friday 5th February 9am-11am

Saturday2nd 5th March 10am-12noon Friday October 9am -11am Nursery Friday 18th March

– No. EY401252 –

M E M B E R

For further info or to arrange a visit please call 020 8254 2118 or email kelly.walton@suttondaynursery.com Rose Hill Park, Rose Hill, Sutton, Surrey, SM1 3HH www.suttondaynursery.com | www.thesportsvillage.org.uk

9am-11am

Saturday 3rd October

10am -12noon

Our incredible nursery welcomes boys from the age of two and gives Friday November 9am -11am 3 what makes them the20th perfect introduction to our school.

ComeYear and see our nursery and school so special.

For further details please contact

sbrailey@priory prep.co.uk or Tel: 01737 366 942 Bolters Lane, Banstead, Surrey, SM7 2AJ

www.prioryprep.co.uk London Surrey Borders

9

Nursery special

Nursery Directory

Priory Prep School

Lemon Tree Montessori School 020 8651 5061 With excellent Montessori teachers Lemon Tree Montessori School provides a warm and friendly environment for children, aged 2 to 5 years, to develop social and academic skills in preparation for school life Little Learners Day Nursery 020 8649 7745 Little Learners Day Nurseries aim to provide high quality affordable childcare in a safe, fun and stimulating environment where the child’s needs and interests come first. There are three Little Learners settings: South Croydon, Purely and West Croydon Priory Preparatory Bolters Lane, Banstead, SM7 2AJ 01737 366920 www.prioryprep.co.uk The incredible nursery at Priory Preparatory school welcomes boys from the age of two and gives them the perfect introduction to school life.The outstanding staff create a sensitive and happy environment, in which boys thrive and gain confidence.

The boys have their own well-resourced, lively and colourful classrooms and a bespoke outdoor play area. Being very much a part of the whole school, they also have access to a range of facilities such as the Sports Fields and Computer Room and specialist teaching staff for music.

At certain times of the year, the boys visit our Woodland School where they take part in a variety of Woodland activities, designed to enhance their learning by gradually building up their skills and confidence of working and playing in a natural environment. Dressed in their waterproofs and wellies, the boys enjoy the experience of collecting leaves, splashing in puddles and generally investigating.

Rainbows Montessori Pre-School St Patrick's Church Hall, Parkhill Road, Wallington, SM6 0RZ 0208 660 1921 A privately run pre-school offering sessional nursery education for children from 2½ years, term time only.

Scallywags Pre-School 020 8641 1077 Sessional nursery education for children from 2 years old, term time only. Summer holiday playscheme also available 10

January/ February 2016

Seaton House School

Seaton House School 67 Banstead Road South, Sutton, SM2 5LH 020 8642 2332 www.seatonhouse.sutton.sch.uk Seaton House School Nursery is where your daughter can join at the start of the term in which she celebrates her third birthday, or at the beginning of any term thereafter, subject to availability. Please contact Seaton House if you are unsure when this might be.

The dedicated Nursery setting is a safe, secure and supportive environment. It is a vibrant, exciting place full of specialist resources designed to fire imagination and creativity where learning is an ongoing process whether through carefully planned activities or through play and social interaction.

With fully qualified teaching staff in the Nursery who are dedicated to providing your child with a comfortable and happy environment ensuring their experiences are positive, fulfilling and rewarding.

By entering Seaton House School Nursery you will be giving your daughter the best possible start in her education and where the opportunities for learning are varied and endless but most importantly fun.

Shapes Day Nursery

Shapes Day Nursery 21 West Street, Epsom, Surrey, KT18 7RL 01372 877863 srichards@shapesdaynursery.co.uk www.shapesdaynursery.co.uk Opening Spring 2016: Shapes Day Nursery, Epsom is currently renovating the former Royal British Legion building into a welcoming, friendly, full daycare setting for children aged 3 months to 5 years.

The new nursery will be providing the same quality of childcare, provision and environment as Shapes in Reigate, including a uniquely designed soft-play and garden areas and bright and welcoming areas for babies, toddlers and preschoolers.

The 100 place nursery, opening in Spring 2016 will provide flexible childcare from 7.30am until 6.30pm, Monday - Friday, all year round or term-time only, to children and parents in the Epsom and surrounding areas.

St Christopher's School 6 Down’s Rd, Epsom, KT18 5HE 01372 721807 www.st-christophers.surrey.sch.uk St Christopher’s Nursery enjoys a spacious five room setting alive with colour and activity. The Nursery is well resourced with two interactive whiteboards and child friendly computers. In addition, the outdoor provision includes an all-weather classroom, a playhouse and a popular children’s vehicle area, all set in beautiful, secure grounds.

The children are divided into small groups each with a key worker. Two qualified specialist teachers are responsible for the planning and delivery of the ambitious and creative curriculum. The teachers work together with a team of six qualified Foundation Stage Assistants and a Lead Nursery Nurse.

Sutton Day Nursery Rosehill Park, Rose Hill, Sutton, SM1 3HH info@suttondaynursery.com 020 8254 2118 www.thesportsvillage.org.uk Sutton Day Nursery located within The Sports Village Sutton, is an OFSTED registered day nursery offering full-time day care for children aged 6 months to 5 years.

The nursery is open 51 weeks of the year, weekdays from 8am to 6pm and can offer extended hours on request. As part of The Sports Village, the nursery is able to offer fantastic additional activities, as part of the children’s weekly nursery programme such as tennis, gymnastics, dance, soft play and Jo Jingles which are not typically offered within a childcare environment. Classes are taught by highly qualified coaches, giving children as young as 18 months the opportunity to develop their co-ordination and balance. The nursery aims to provide a safe and secure environment where your child will not only have fun but will grow and develop to their full potential!

Tots Village Nursery 01883 340825 Tots Village Nursery is a small, independent, family run nursery based in Caterham.

Sutton Day Nursery

www.families-LSB.co.uk

Inspiring

INSPIRE | NURTURE | ACHIEVE An independent co-educational day school for pupils aged 3-18

young minds

Over 90% of our children are working above the national average in Maths and Literacy by the end of Year One. Just one of the reasons why you should choose Downsend

Ewell Castle Preparatory School Open Days Pre-Prep Epsom Saturday 6 February 9:30 am to 11:30 am Saturday 7 May 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm

With an ethos in which each child’s achievements are acknowledged, valued and celebrated, pupils thrive academically as a result of a varied curriculum, an extensive extra-curricular programme and outstanding pastoral care.

Open Event Saturday 30th January 10am-12noon For further details and to pre-register please visit our website ewellcastle.co.uk 020 8394 3576 admissions@ewellcastle.co.uk

An independent nursery and pre-prep school for boys and girls aged 2-6

T: 01372 372311 • E: admissions@downsend.co.uk • W: downsend.co.uk

You probably think your daughter is something special.

We certainly do.

At Croydon High School we really understand girls; after all we have been inspiring generations of them to do amazing things since 1874. So why not come and see how we do it?

Our nextTo Open Morning is ontoSaturday October 3rd arrange a visit the school from 9.30 – 12.30pm but our doors are always open.

Just call 020 8260 7500 to book Just call 020 8260 7508 to book a visit.

We look forward to meeting you and your daughter very soon.

Croydon High School

Outstanding education for girls aged 3-18.

Old Farleigh Road, Selsdon, South Croydon CR2 8YB Tel: 0208 260 7508 Email: info2@cry.gdst.net Croydon High School www.croydonhigh.gdst.net

For ages 0 - 5 years Open 7.30am - 6.30pm Monday to Friday Jancett Playsafe Clubs - Breakfast, after school & holiday clubs For ages 4 -11 years Open 7.30am - 6.30pm Monday to Friday

Tel: 020 8669 1725 www.jancett.co.uk @JancettGroup

ESTD. 1874

London Surrey Borders

11

Nursery special

Nursery Programmes

MAD Academy

Why choose Jo Jingles as an extra activity in the nursery?

Brocketts Farm

School and Nursery Visits to Bocketts Farm Enjoy a fun and educational day out at the farm with your nursery group. The educational package includes a barn reserved for your picnic lunch, a personal farm leader, private animal handling and goat milking session, tractor and trailer ride, pig race and free time to play. Call their office to check availability and to make a booking.

Cost is £7.60 per person with one free adult per 8 children. ‘’Bocketts Farm has been welcoming schools and conducting educational visits since we opened more than 22 years ago. On our 2014 Schools Satisfaction Survey, 97% rated the 'Overall Experience' category as 'Excellent'. Bocketts Farm has been welcoming schools and conducting educational visits since we opened more than 22 years ago. On our 2014 Schools Satisfaction Survey, 97% rated the 'Overall Experience' category as 'Excellent'.’’

If you are interested in your nursery, or child’s nursery having a day out on the farm please call 01372 363764, or visit www. bockettsfarm.co.uk for more information.

Jo Jingles is the country’s leading music and movement group for pre-school children.

Their term works progressively though the age groups in the nursery so your baby can join them right through to pre-school and learn in age specific groupings, developing listening skills and musical interpretation.

They introduce different styles of music from orchestral pieces to modern scores and even early notation for preschoolers. Your child will take part in fun and educational programmes led by an experienced presenter. Each structured session will include music, singing, and movement/dance. Every child will also have the opportunity to play a musical instrument during each session with smaller instruments and sensory props for babies.

Their curriculum incorporates key stages in EYFS. Sessions are fun, informative and educational, encouraging children with their language development, hand eye coordination, balance, agility, motor and social skills and as they are a weekly class, they build relationships with the children working with them at this young age helping them to develop so many skills.

Toddlers and pre schoolers study an age appropriate theory module each week that is accompanied by support sheets. Classes are 30 minutes and include themes such as Space, The Farm, Transport, Keeping Fit, Numbers & Dinosaurs and where possible we will reinforce themes that the nursery is covering. We also use props and visuals to aid learning, memory and enjoyment.

If Jo Jingles are not in your child’s nursery ask them to get in touch for a free trial.

Contact Viv Hunt on 07751 438943, vivhjojingles@aol.com or Sue Senior 0208 644 4897, sue.senior@gmail.com

The Good Ship Lollypop

MAD Academy Croydon & MAD Academy Sutton MAD Academy has delighted and developed children in nurseries and centres for many years. They deliver fun-filled and stimulating music and movement classes carefully tailored to specific age groups, from babies up to preschool children. All their activities are designed to support key aspects of the Early Years Foundations Stage framework.

We work around you, planning classes around your specific needs and incorporating topics to reinforce your Learning Goals and help you hit your OFSTED targets. Sessions are usually weekly, but don’t have to be, and they can vary the length of our classes to suit your setting.

Children love the energy of MAD Academy classes and the fact it’s so interactive. And if they’re having an amazing time, then they are much more likely to participate, learn and achieve, and that’s what we all want.

Get in touch if you’d like further information or to arrange a demonstration class.

MAD Academy Croydon call Alison Storey 020 8407 1726 www.madacademy.com/music-andmovement-classes/croydon/croydonchildrens-centres-nurseries/ MAD Academy Sutton Pauline Llewellyn www.madacademy.com/music-andmovement-classes/sutton/sutton-childrenscentres-nurseries/

available in the UK

Australia’s largest

multi-sport & exercise programme for children aged 2–7 years

Your local Ready Steady Go Kids classes are held at:

Open 7 days a week O7703 566411 rosie@thegoodshiplollypop.co.uk www.thegoodshiplollypop.co.uk KNK Staduim, Imperial Fields, Bishopford Rd, Morden, Surrey, SM4 6BD

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January/ February 2016

Worcester Park Baptist Church Worcester Park, KT4 7EW Bourne Hall Ewell Village, KT17 1UF St Andrews United Reformed Church Cheam, SM2 7HF Epsom Methodist Church Epsom, KT18 5AQ

Call the team or visit us online for class times.

FR AV AN AI CH LA I BL SES E

Funky and Fun Soft Play Venue with Amazing Birthday Party Packages

Nonsuch Hall (Bluegates Scouts Hall) Ewell, KT17 2SA

www.rsgk.co.uk info@rsgk.co.uk 0800 690 6591

www.families-LSB.co.uk

Nursery special

The sports included in the Ready Steady Go Kids programme are Football, Basketball, Tennis, Hockey, Golf, Rugby, AFL, Cricket, Athletics and T-Ball.

Ready Steady Go Kids

Ready Steady Go Kids Multi sports Nursery Programme Ready Steady Go Kids Multi-sports complements Early Years Curriculum by Kathy Bees, ACMA, CGMA, Director of Ready Steady Go Kids.

Ready Steady Go Kids provides a multi-sport programme within nurseries and preschools aimed at the age groups 2-3 years and 3-5 years. They run regular sessions at a nursery in Stoneleigh and Sunbury, and childrenlove it: ‘The children thoroughly enjoy the sessions each week, learning new skills and sports. The RSGK team are enthusiastic and professional in the service that they provide and support us in teaching a healthy lifestyle at Chery Stone nursery’ – Emma, Manager.

They provide classes in nurseries to support their learning outcomes, as their programme meets the Early Years Foundations Stage Criteria in the 3 Prime areas: Communication & Language Physical development Personal, social and emotional development Additionally we support development in the following Early Years Criteria: Understanding the world Math Colours and number recognition Classes run for 45 minutes and five sports are covered each term (taught in two week blocks). Classes focus on a specific gross motor, hand-eye/foot-eye and/or balance activity to complement the sport component.

Ready Steady Go Kids coaches also lead and educate on other important features such as warm-up, stretching, cool-down, teambuilding and sportsmanship.

Classes are available in the local area in Epsom, Cheam and Worcester Park. If you manage a nursery and are interested in trialling Ready Steady Go Kids, please call them to book a free session or if you are a parent interested in supporting your child’s development in a fun and active way, please call RSKG to book your free trial class. 0800 690 6591 www.rsgk.co.uk info@rsgk.co.uk

Dramabuds in Schools and Nurseries Dramabuds specialise in providing imaginative drama classes and workshops exclusively for children aged 2 – 6 years old.

They offer schools, nurseries and early years settings, regular weekly classes, themed workshops, after school clubs and end of term drama parties.

Dramabuds Nursery Programme support all six areas of the early years foundation Stage framework (EYFS) and areas of the key stage 1 curriculum.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Nurture imagination and creativity through drama and imaginary play.

Increase confidence and boost selfesteem with fun drama games and exercises Enrich a childs vocabulary, and listening skills through interactive storytelling.

Promote physical development through dance and movement Explore our world, people, animals and places through drama Encourage all the children to work together to solve problems set within stories.

The Good Ship Lollypop Soft play at Tooting & Mitcham Community Sports Club More and more local schools are discovering the benefit of taking their charges to The Good Ship Lollypop for a recreational treat where they provided a safe environment for children of all ability to have fun at soft play.

With the brightly coloured decor and good facilities for all ages The Good Ship Lollypop is a truly happy ship.

Pre-School Nurseries, Out of School Clubs and Special Needs Schools have even hired The Good Ship Lollypop exclusively for their own use when holding Christmas parties and end of year celebrations.

The Good Ship Lollypop has delivered a broad spectrum of events from a class of infants for “Pirate” adventure play to the aspiring “Diva” at the highly popular “PopTastic" song recording Parties. The Good Ship Lollypop has a lot to offer the whole family…..so if you need a great venue for your private party or just want to enjoy a coffee and the newspaper whilst your kids burn off their energy the Lollypop Crew look forward to welcoming you onboard.

Would you be interested in having a relaxed school celebration at Good Ship Lollypop?, If so please contact Sharon on 0770356641 for more information.

To discuss or make a booking contact Becca directly on 020 8669 2355 or 07789 722 68

London Surrey Borders

13

Open day directory

SPRING SCHOOL OPEN DAYS Collingwood School

3 Springfield Road, Wallington, SM60BD 020 8647 4607 www.collingwoodschool.org.uk Sat 27 Feb 10 - 12 noon Croydon High School Old Farleigh Rd, Croydon CR2 8YB 020 8260 7508 www.croydonhigh.gdst.net Nursery Assessments - Tues 12 Jan Year 1 - 6 Assessments - Wed 13 Jan Reception Assessments - Thurs 14 Jan Year 9 Entrance Test Day – Tues 26 Jan

Downsend Pre Prep Epsom 6 Norman Avenue, Epsom, KT17 3AB www.downsend.co.uk Sat 6 Feb 9.30 – 11.30 am Essendene Lodge Essendene Rd, Caterham, CR3 5PB 01883 348 349 www.essendenelodge.co.uk Thurs 28 Jan Ewell Castle Junior and Senior Church St, Ewell, KT17 2AW 020 8393 1413 www.ewellcastle.co.uk Sat 30 Jan 10.00 – 12 noon Fri 4 Mar 9.00 – 10.30 am Greenacre School 16 Sutton Ln, Banstead SM7 3RA 01737 352114 www.greenacre.surrey.sch.uk Fri 18 Mar 9.15 - 11.10 am

Kingswood House School 56 West Hill, Epsom, KT19 8LG 01372 723590 www.kingswoodhouse.org Thurs 25 Feb 9.30 to 12 noon Sat 27 Feb 9.30 to 12 noon Oakwood School and Nursery 59 Godstone Road, Purley, CR8 2AN 020 8668 2895 www.oakwoodschool.org.uk Sat 5 Mar Old Palace School of John Whitgift Preparatory - 2, Melville Avenue, South Croydon, CR2 7YN Senior - Old Palace Rd, Croydon CR0 1AX 020 8688 2027 www.oldpalaceofjohnwhitgift.org Open Morning - Sat 16 Jan 2-4 pm Open Morning - Sat 27 Feb 2-4 pm Working Morning – Wed 2 Mar 10.30 am 12 noon Priory Preparatory Bolters Lane, Banstead, SM7 2AJ 01737 366920 www.prioryprep.co.uk Fri 5 Feb 9 – 11 am Sat 5 Mar 10 – 12 noon Fri 18 Mar 9 – 11 am

St Christopher's School 6 Down’s Rd, Epsom, KT18 5HE 01372 721807 www.st-christophers.surrey.sch.uk Thur 3 Mar 9.15 am – 10.30 am Sat 5 Mar – 10.30 am – 12.30 pm Sutton High, Nursery and Juniors 86 Grove Rd Sutton, SM1 2AL 020 8225 3075 Wed 13 Mar

Sutton High Seniors 55 Cheam Rd, Sutton SM1 2AX 020 8642 0594 Royal Russell Junior School www.suttonhigh.gdst.net Coombe Lane, Croydon, CR0 5BX Fri 5 Feb 020 8651 5884 www.royalrussell.co.uk All details are correct at time of printing.

Thur 17 Mar Please check each school prior to visiting.

Achievement and confidence for all

Greenacre School Sutton Lane, Banstead, Surrey SM7 3RA www.greenacre.surrey.sch.uk admin@greenacre.surrey.sch.uk

14 January/ February 2016

Seaton House School 67 Banstead Road South, Sutton, SM2 5LH 020 8642 2332 www.seatonhouse.sutton.sch.uk Open Morning - Sat 5 Mar 10am -12.30 pm Drop-In Morning - Tues 8 Mar 9.30 -11.30 am

Greenacre School is a successful school that challenges, develops and nurtures each individual girl to be the very best she can be and to achieve beyond her expectations. Our uniquely supportive atmosphere and small class sizes enable us to work closely with every girl so that they all have the opportunity to develop and grow with confidence.

If you would like to visit the school, please telephone for an appointment or join us for one of our prospective parents’ mornings.

For further information please contact our Admissions Registrar on 01737 352114.

www.families-LSB.co.uk

It's

Party

Birthday Party Pizazz

time

How to make your parties age-appropriate

By Emma Oliver It’s difficult to know how to keep kids entertained at parties.

It’s even more difficult to know how to change the format of the party as kids get older. At what age do face paints and musical statues no longer cut it? For which age group would you book an entertainer? And when do you move from a party to an outing?

When it comes to birthday parties, we’ve learnt over the years that a can-do attitude and great planning is what’s needed.

Try to ensure that you don’t give yourself too much of a nightmare. When they are young, you may want to restrict the number of friends your child invites (though of course often we end up inviting the whole class, because that’s what everyone else does) and you’ll want to be sensible about how long it lasts; an hour is plenty for pre-schoolers and those in the first couple of years of Infant school.

Pre-school With small children, the key is to keep things simple. It’s fine to have the party at home and you can get creative – why not try dressing up, a treasure hunt, face painting and simple games.

If you choose pass the parcel, don’t feel you have to include a prize in every layer (though if you do, make sure each child gets one!) Why not return to the old-fashioned idea of a forfeit for each child? They could sing their favourite song or make animal sounds. Then you can have one prize at the end. When it’s time for tea, put out sandwiches and savoury food first, keeping the sweet treats out of sight until after they have eaten. Unless you love baking, do buy the cake as everyone will love it, especially when covered in birthday candles. At the party’s close, give each guest a small gift or party bag with a piece of the cake in it. For the birthday child, it’s a good idea to put their presents to one side as guests bring them and open them after everyone has gone.

You can even save some for the following days.

4-7 Years An entertainer comes into their own with this age group as they will keep the kids amused and busy until it’s time for tea. If a professional entertainer is out of your price bracket, ask a friend or relative to take on the task and plan out some games and activities beforehand. There are other ideas you could choose if you want something more unusual; pony riding, a bouncy castle or in the summer a water party will be fun. Pass the parcel remains a firm favourite for this age group but other games such as pin the tail on the donkey and a Piñata will be a hit.

8-11 Years Often what a September-born child does for a birthday sets the precedent for the rest of the class, so be aware of what’s popular.

Book a hall or have it at home depending on your numbers and bravado, or you could find an active party at a local sports centre.

Perhaps they could all try trampolining or rock climbing. You might want to take them to a cinema showing, or visit a restaurant that will teach them to make pizza or chocolate shapes. How about a summer water party in the garden?

If you do have the party at home, some ideas for games for this age group include the Chocolate Game (roll a six, dress up in hat, scarf and gloves, eat the chocolate with a knife and fork, Chubby Bunnies (stuff one more marshmallow in each time and try saying that without actually eating them) and The Flour Game

(cut shards off the flour cake until the coin balanced on top falls.

The person responsible retrieves it using only their mouth). Feed them on simple pizza and finish with a make-your-own ice cream sundae – you’ll need ice cream plus sauces and toppings.

Teen - As always with teenagers, it is all about communication – ha! Sometimes this is easier said than done. Some will want to do what all their friends are doing, while others would they like to do something entirely different. Activities outdoors such as paint balling or Go Ape, the cinema, bowling and theatre can offer this.

Emma Oliver is a journalist who has worked for various magazines and websites, mainly covering travel and parenting. She is also a mum to two young girls. When she's not off gadding abut she can be found blogging- WritingLifeAsItIs.blogspot.co.uk

25 y%poarftiefs! birthda

be taken uary 2016. The party can If you book before 31st Jan 2017. y uar Jan t 31s 6 uary 201 any time between 31st Jan

ASK IN CENTRE TODAY!

Cheam Leisure Centre

020 8644 2891

David Weir Leisure Centre

020 8641 9480

The Phoenix Centre

020 8773 6060

Westcroft Leisure Centre

020 8669 8666

Everyone Active manages these facilities on behalf of Sutton Council.

W

everyoneactive.com

everyoneactive

@everyoneactive

London Surrey Borders

15

It's

y Paritm e

Winter party ideas

t

During the cold winter months it can sometimes be hard to find the perfect party for our little ones. Families LSB has put together some ideas that promise to delight little ones of all ages.

Boutique Cakery 01737 668121 info@boutiquecakery.com www.boutiquecakery.com Children’s cupcake parties. The birthday child can choose a theme of their choice, their guests will each decorate six beautiful cupcakes and take them home in a window presentation box. Boutique Cakery will creatively entertain the children for two hours while the parents sit back and enjoy a coffee and a slice of freshly baked cake. 5-12 years Croydon High Sports Club 020 8657 9313 croydonhighsportsclub@cry.gdst.net www.croydonsportsclub.co.uk Sports, swimming, tennis or dance parties; bouncy castle hire or just venue hire. Secure building with plenty of free parking.6-12 years Diddi Dance www.diddidance.co.uk Diddi Dance parties are fun, fantastic and affordable. Sessions are interactive, with children up and dancing, grooving and moving to the funky tunes. Diddi Dance parties are perfect for the little ones, with various length packages making them perfectly suited to each individual child.

Everyone Active runs a variety fun filled parties throughout the Sutton borough.

Westcroft Leisure Centre SM5 2TG 0208 669 8666 Trampolining - lots of bouncy fun for children aged between 5-15 years. Active Ants party – bouncy fun and inflatables for children 5 and under. Main pool party - swimming and inflatables for children 8-16 years old that can swim 25 metres. Small pool party – swimming with inflatables for children up to age 11.

David Weir Leisure Centre SM5 1SL 0208 641 9480 Play world party – an indoor play area built over two levels. For children 2 – 10. Active Ants party – lots of bouncy fun and inflatables for children 5 and under. Football challenge party – a combination of football related party games plus a football match. Max 16 children, 5-9 years. Gymnastics party – matted floor area, vault, beams and bars and staffed by BAGA qualified gymnastics coaches. 5-15 years.

Cheam Leisure Centre SM3 8EP 0208 644 2891 Super bounce party - bounce fun for ages 5-15 years. Active Ants party – bouncy fun and inflatables for children 5 and under. Main pool party - swimming and inflatables for children 8-16 years old that can swim 25 metres.

The Phoenix Centre SM6 9NZ 0208 773 6060 Active Ants party – bouncy fun and inflatables for children 7 and under. Trampolining party – Lots of bouncy fun for children aged between 5-15 years. Sports/ Games party - a combination of sport related party games, or a variety of fun filled games depending on which is more suitable to the. 5+. Football Challenge party – A combination of football related party games plus a football match. Max 16 children, 5+ EzeeSport Fiona Crossman 07862220857 office@ezeesport.com www.ezeesport.com Outrageous Multi Sport Party Fun We can make your child’s birthday party ezee.

Simply find a suitably sized venue and let us provide zero stress, guaranteed happy and excited kids, non-stop multi sports action for up to 90 minutes. Prices start at £135 for up to 10 kids.3-11 year olds.

Don't forget to say you saw these advertised in

Ezee Sport Parties

Froggle Parties Ltd 08450 504 509 enquiries@froggleparties.com www.froggleparties.com As seen on CBBC! High energy parties that are nonstop fun. Huge variety of activities choose from entertainers, magicians, themes, discos, face painting, science parties, bubble parties, clowns, balloons modelling, puppetry, balloon decorations, party bags, and more.

Free invites with every party. All ages.

Giggles Soft Play KT19 9RY www.gigglessoftplay.co.uk Exclusive Giggles parties on Saturday and a Sundays.

Glazed All Over SM6 9AY 02086476463 www.glazedallover.co.uk Party Package which is for a minimum of 10 painters but they can cater for up to 24.

Parties are suitable for age 5+ and run for 1 ½ hours giving you 1 hour for painting and 30 minutes for birthday food and cake that you can bring by prior arrangement. It costs £15 per painter, which includes a pottery item, paints, glazing & firing. In addition the party host will receive a celebratory plate signed by all their friends. A £50 non-refundable deposit is payable at the time of booking.

Gymboree Cheam SM2 7BT 07990 761 259 cheam@gymboree-uk.com www.gymboree-uk.com/f/cheam Gymboree parties are magical and include musical games, imaginary stories along with our famous bubbles and parachute!

Choose from Baby’s First Birthday, Farmyard Fun, Ocean Adventure, Trains & Planes, Princesses & Super Heroes, Dinosaur

Cupcake Parties

The birthday child can choose a theme of their choice, their guests will each decorate six beautiful cupcakes and take them home in a window presentation box. The Boutique Cakery will creatively entertain the children for two hours while parents sit back and enjoy a coffee and a slice of our freshly baked cakes.

01737 668121 info@boutiquecakery.com www.boutiquecakery.com 16 January/ February 2016

www.families-LSB.co.uk

It's

Party

Active Sport Parties

time

Gymboree Parties

Adventures, Jungle Safari and more.They offer parties onsite in Cheam Village or they can come to a venue of your choice. Age 1-5 years.

Kidspace Adventures CR0 4RQ 0208 6860040 www.kidspaceadventures.com/croydon Huge indoor play area with slides, a climbing wall and go karts on 4 levels, plus its own pizzeria. Preparing a party at home can be time consuming and stressful. With award winning facilities Kidspace offers the perfect away from home party venue.

Lions Playground SM6 0AT 0208 669 2332 lionsplayground@hotmail.com www.lionsplayground.co.uk Lion’s playground is a newly established and growing Indoor Soft play facility within the area of Wallington that offers great party facilities.

Little Lambs Soft Play SM1 1AY 07584 353693 Wide variety of soft play equipment for under 5's Little Lamb’s can host a perfect party.

Monkey Music www.monkeymusic.co.uk Every little monkey loves to party. Monkey Music parties bring together singing, dancing and playing musical party games into a great party, that is individually tailored to your little one. You Monkey Music host will ensure that all your party guests, and the birthday boy/girl will have a special day to remember.

Moo Music Tamsin Christie 07983 685 102 www.moo-music.co.uk Let’s Party the Moo Doo way. A Moo Doo is a fantastic way of celebrating a birthday whatever age you are. It can be in your home

or in a public hall and you can have just a few friends or a whole host of people. Your Moo Farmer can supply all of the invites for you and even provide the birthday child with a Moo Music present and card and play ‘It’s Your Birthday’ for everyone to sing along to.

Mother Kitty’s CR5 3DU laraburgess1@hotmail.com 01737 559255 www.motherkittys.co.uk A delightful, vintage style soft play café with birthday facilities that promise to delight.

Once Upon A Time Soft Play Ltd KT19 8AG 07933292464 Offering a range of party packages, the perfect solution for a hassle free party in a welcoming atmosphere.

Perform 0845 400 4000 www.perform.org.uk Perform Parties are high energy, fun and totally infectious. Based around a colourful theme and involving lots of lively games, they use the power of children's imaginations to transport them to a different world. They take children on an exciting adventure getting everybody involved. For 4 – 7 year olds and 7 – 12 year olds.

Theatrebugs Epsom & Guildford 01483 882244 / 07971 004134 hannahmason@theatrebugs.co.uk www.theatrebugs.co.uk/surrey A Theatrebugs party is an interactive fun filled journey crammed with tasks, characters and different worlds to explore. Full of storytelling, imaginative play, drama games and fun perfect for 2-8 year olds. BabyBug parties now also available for under 2s, with fun sensory props, squishy toys, cuddly puppets and engaging stories, songs and rhymes. Prices from £115. For babies – 7 years.

The Good Ship Lollypop SM4 6BF O7703 566411 rosie@thegoodshiplollypop.co.uk www.thegoodshiplollypop.co.uk A funky soft play centre, with a truly amazing range of party packages that promise the perfect birthday celebration.

The Sports Village SM1 3HH 0208 641 6611 birthdayparties@thesportsvillage.org.uk www.thesportsvillage.org.uk Parties at The Sports Village are held every weekend at a time to suit you. They offer a range of party themes including Tennis, Multisport, Dance, Gymnastics, Football and Soft Play for Under 5s. All parties include one hour of activity plus a fully catered and decorated party room for 45 minutes afterwards. Ages 1 - 10 years. Strictly under 5’s for soft play.

Stagecoach Themed Birthday Parties www.stagecoach.co.uk Let your child enjoy the wonderful world of make-believe as Stagecoach takes them on a roller-coaster ride through his/her imagination.

Stagecoach party themes include: Knights & Princesses, Pirates & Mermaids, Fairies, Superheroes, Witches & Wizards, Jungle Animals, Pop Stars and Musicals. Parties can be hosted from the regular Stagecoach schools or at a venue of your choice.

Invitations are Included and guests will also receive prizes, stickers and a balloon. Party bags can be provided. All you need to do is provide food, drinks…and don’t forget your camera! Please visit www.stagecoach.co.uk to find your nearest Stagecoach Party provider.

Tumble Tots Epsom 07930 550 023 epsom@tumbletots.com www.tumbletots.com/epsom Tumble Tots offer two-hour birthday parties, with plenty of time on Tumble Tots’ specially designed equipment, along with your child’s favourite party songs and games for up to 24 children. Contact them for further details and to book a date, walking to 5 years.

London Surrey Borders

17

Bocketts Farm Park 13th - 21st Feb 2016

FEBRUARY HALF TERM FUN ENJOY FREE RANGE FAMILY FUN THIS FEBRUARY HALF TERM!

70

Daily birds of prey flying demonstrations!

(Mon-Fri only)

US GORWGBEOORN NE BS DUE LAM

Plenty of indoor play & activities Early Spring lambing starts

HEATED PLAYBARN & SEATING AREA!

Visit the Pony Parlour

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

D AR AW WI NN ING !

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£2 OFF full price farm entry per person*

Valid weekends from 2nd Jan - 7th Feb 2016. Only with this voucher (*max 5 people). Off Peak Winter Weekday rates of £6.50 per person apply Mon - Fri until 12th Feb 2016.

FM

EPSOM, OXSHOTT, BOCKETTS FARM PARK AND LEATHERHEAD AREAS E: leatherhead.dorking@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01483 841 303 SOUTH CROYDON, CATERHAM AND PURLEY AREAS E: southcroydon.caterham@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 0203 251 1061

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Book your FREE trial class today!

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Learn to dance, act & sing

The MultiSports Group Change your game

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Little Stars (4 – 6 years) Stars 1, 2 & 3 (7 – 16 years)

Weekend sports for boys and girls aged 4 - 16 of all abilities

New classes in South Croydon

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are available at all classes.

Call us on 020 8460 5711 now or visit www.spotlightstheatre.co.uk to book.

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Beckenham | Bromley | Croydon | Orpington Sanderstead | South Croydon | West Wickham

18

January/ February 2016

SUA2336 Families London Surrey Little Stars Ad 87x85_FINAL.indd 1

www.families-LSB.co.uk 20/02/2015 15:26

Half Term Holiday Camps & What's on

Brocketts Farm

13 – 21 February Bocketts Farm Park Young Street, Leatherhead, Surrey 01372 363764 www.bockettsfarm.co.uk 10am – 5.30pm Enjoy a great day out on the farm this February Half Term with the start of the Spring lambing. There are up to 90 lambs due from Feb 12th - 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. What’s more, there is a full programme of fun farm activities including pony rides, tractor rides, animal handling and pig racing. Outdoors, enjoy the jumping pillows, pedal go karts and play trails. Plus 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. £9.30 Adults, £9.95 Children 3-17 years, Seniors £8.80, Under 2yrs Free.

15 - 18 February 11 plus intensive course Rosebery School Epsom 07986564651 www.southerntutors.co.uk Intensive teaching Maths and English and Reasoning for children 8-11 year olds.

Ezee Sports

15 - 19 February Downsend Plus - Downsend School 1 Leatherhead Road, Leatherhead, Surrey KT22 8TJ 07909 861 280, www.downsend.co.uk/our-holiday-club 8am to 5.30pm Downsend+ provides child care of and aims to fulfil the needs of parents and children alike. With a large variety of activities, children have access to exciting and absorbing workshops and courses where they make new friends and gain new skills.

For more information please call them.

15 - 19 February The Sports Village half term holiday camp The Sports Village, Rose Hill Park, Rose Hill, Sutton, Surrey, SM1 3HH 020 8641 6611 www.thesportsvillage.org.uk.

9am – 5pm.

This half term The Sports Village holiday camps are a mixture of dance, tennis and multi-sports. Home of Sutton Tennis Academy means we have the facilities and expertise to introduce children to tennis, developing basic skills through a fun games-based approach.

Our action-packed multi-sports program introduce kids to dance, hockey, basketball, cricket, football and circuits.

15 – 19 February Half Term Holiday Camps Croydon Sports Club Croydon High School, Old Farleigh 55x70_alison_pauline_Layout 2 19/08/2015 16:02 Road, Selsdon , South Croydon , CR2 8YB

For classes of pure MADness, join MAD Academy

020 8657 9313 Holiday activity camps for ages 5 – 14 years including swimming, sports, party games, arts and crafts and a bouncy castle.

Morning sessions or full day sessions are available. Call 020 8657 9313 for more details.

16 - 19 February Glazed All Over 102 Stafford Road, Wallington, Surrey, SM6 9AY 0208647646 www.glazedallover.co.uk 3-4pm Four one hour sessions spread across the half term week. They will be creating, Glass Plate Painting, Clay Bunting, Clay flowers, Tile Finger Painting. Limited availability for each workshop, booking essential. For ages 6+. £6 per child, with sibling 15% sibling discount.

16 & 18 February EzeeSport Holiday Clubs Leather Head Leisure Centre 07862220857 www.ezeepsort.com 9.30 – 3pm Action packed holiday clubs include multisport skill development, sportsmanship mentoring, unique games and mini matches. Full day and half day courses available. For more information please call Fiona Crossman on 07862220857.

Birthday Parties too!

Babies from 3 months action songs and sensory stimulation Walkers to 2 years music, movement and motor development 2 to 4 years dance, musicality and beat competency

Classes in Croydon & surrounding areas

Call Alison on 020 8407 1726 alison.storey@madacademy.com Classes in Sutton & surrounding areas

Call Pauline on 01372 372 942 pauline.llewellyn@madacademy.com Movement • rhythms • songs • instruments • games

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

London Surrey Borders

19

What's on

What’s on

Before setting out please check details with the venue in case they have changed since we have gone to print ...and don’t forget to tell them you saw them in Families LondonSurrey Borders!

JANUARY

17 January Amy and the Aeroplanes Honeywood Museum Carshalton, Surrey SM5 3NX Fly into Honeywood for an afternoon of aircrafty fun. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Free.

2pm – 5pm.

Every Sat & Sun from 9 January - 7 February Family weekend activities at The London Wetlands Centre Queen Elizabeth, Barnes, London, SW13 9WT 020 8409 4400 www.wwt.org.uk 9am-4pm Every Friday in January Snappity the Crocodile’s activities for under 5’s Kingston Museum Wheatfield Way, Kingston KT1 2PS Come along for a story or song and a making activity. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Activities are free but donations are welcome. 10.15am – 11am.

Every Saturday in Jan & Feb Farmers Market Horniman Museum 100 London Rd, London SE23 3PQ. 9am – 1pm Every Saturday Hands on Family Workshop Horniman Museum 100 London Rd, London SE23 3PQ Use all your senses to explore the animal kingdom, musical instruments, costume, masks, toys and puppets from all over.

3 +. From 11.45am – 12.30pm & 1pm – 1.45pm Every Saturday Art Makers Horniman Museum 100 London Rd, London SE23 3PQ Have fun with art skills and exciting techniques to create something fabulous to take home inspired by the Horniman’s collections or seasonal celebrations. 3+. £3 per participating child, adults free.

1.30pm – 2.15pm & 2.45pm – 3.30pm.

From 5 January Wildlife Photographer of the Year The Natural History Museum Cromwell Road, London, SW7 5BD 020 7942 5011 www.nhm.ac.uk Visit the Natural History Museum's world-renowned annual exhibition to see the best wildlife photographs on the planet. From £6.75. 10am - 5.30pm

20

January/ February 2016

6, 13, 20, 27 January Circle Baby Stay & play Circle Library Green Wrythe Lane, Carshalton SM5 1JJ A regular get-together for mums with babies. From 9.30am – 11am 6, 13, 20, 27 Jan Carshalton Library Storytime Westcroft Leisure Centre, Westcroft Rd, Carshalton, Surrey SM5 2TG Songs, rhymes and stories for the under 4’s. Free. 10am – 10.30am & 10.45 – 11.15 am.

7, 14, 21, 28 January Phoenix Rhyme Time Phoenix Centre Mollison Drive, Wallington, Surrey SM6 9NZ Suitable for ages: 0 – 3 years Stories, songs and rhymes.

Free.11am – 11.30 am 7, 14, 21, 28 January Sutton Children's Chinese Classes Central Library, Sutton Weekly songs and activities for primary and preschool children learning Chinese. 4pm -5pm

9 January - 6 February London International Mime Festival 2015 The Barbican Theatre, Barbican Centre, Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS 0845 120 7511 www.barbican.org.uk/film 29 days of epic, physical and visual theatre, films, workshops and discussions - 18 productions from all around the world.

9, 16, 23, 30 January Sutton Children's Book club Central Library, Sutton Free. Suitable for ages 7 – 12 years. Bring along the book you are reading and make an art response.

From 16 January Cirque du Solei, Amaluna The Royal Albert Hall Kensington Gore, London, SW7 2AP 0845 401 5045 www.royalalberthall.com Cirque du Soleil returns to the Hall with one of its newest touring shows, Amaluna has never before been seen in the UK and will mark Cirque du Soleil’s 20th year at the stunning, world-famous venue.

16 & 17 January Butterflies in the Glasshouse opening weekend

30 January - 7 February The Chelsea Physic Garden Snowdrop Days 2016 66 Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea, London, SW3 4HS 020 7349 6453 chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk The Garden’s annual Snowdrop Days return with stunning new displays highlighting the snowdrops intricate beauty. These stars of winter will be unveiled in an innovative take on the traditional Snowdrop Theatre, presenting snowdrops as you’ve never seen them before. With a programme of walks, talks and workshops. From £6.95.

10am – 4pm

FEBRUARY 3,10, 17, 24 February Circle Baby Stay & play Circle Library Green Wrythe Lane, Carshalton SM5 1JJ A regular get-together for mums with babies. 9.30am – 11am.

3,10,17,24 February Carshalton Library Storytime Westcroft Leisure Centre, Westcroft Rd, Carshalton, Surrey SM5 2TG 10am – 10.30 am and repeated session at 10.45 – 11.15 am Free. Suitable for 1 – 4 years Songs, rhymes and stories for the under 4’s

Set hearts aflutter this winter with exotic butterflies among plants from far-off shores in the paradise of the Glasshouse. Be amazed by the many colours and sizes of butterflies in the‘ jungle’ and learn all about them with our interactive displays.

To celebrate the arrival of the butterflies,Wisley Gardens are putting on a special weekend of activities for younger visitors. There will be face painting each day of the weekend (small charge applies), and free willow weaving workshops to create huge butterfly sculptures from 10.30am – 12.30pm and 1pm – 3.30pm that we’d like everyone’s help with. Butterflies in the Greenhouse runs until 6 March Wisley Gardens RHS Garden Wisley, Woking, Surrey, GU23 6QB

30 January Big Garden Birdwatch 61 Plough Ln, Purley CR8 3QL Suitable for ages 8 years+.

Join us to participate in the UK’s biggest celebration of birds, the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch 2014. We’ll have a guided walk and discuss bird I.D., birdwatching, gardening for birds etc. No booking required but need to meet on time to join the walk!

Free. 7.40am -9.30am

www.rhs.org.uk

4, 11, 18, 25 February Sutton Children's Chinese classes Central Library Sutton, Greater London 4-5pm Weekly songs and activities for primary and preschool children learning Chinese. www.families-LSB.co.uk

What's on necessary! Children 6 and 7 need to have a paying adult accompany them. 1 adult can supervise up to 2 children. Adults are also welcome to accompany all aged children on the course - its great fun for adults too. £15 per child and adult.

6 February Winter Tree ID at Sutton Ecology Centre Suitable for Adults, beginners and intermediates. Although our broadleaved trees ‘shut down’ over the winter months, if you look carefully, you can see the signs of life for the new season! We’ll look at the identification of common trees without leaves; looking at key features of buds, bark and twigs. Booking Essential. Cost: £18. 10am - 3pm.

6 February Meet Jacqueline Wilson Author of Tracy Beaker Bourne Hall Museum Spring Street, Ewell, Surrey KT17 1UF, Meet bestselling and much-loved author Jacqueline Wilson, who will be talking about her writing and career during this special, hourlong event at Bourne Hall Theatre in Ewell, Surrey. 8 +. £5. 2pm 13 – 21 & 27, 28 February Wild Kids - Wildwood Activities Peacock Wood Lido Road, Stoke Park, Guildford, Surrey GU1 1HB Wild Kids is designed for children aged 6 to 12 and need to be over 1m tall - no previous experience

15 – 19 February LEGO & Vintage Toy Exhibition with daily charity LEGO builds Denbies Wine Estate London Road, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6AA Craft Activities available throughout the day from. Pre booking essential, call 01306 876616. 11am until 3pm 15 February Go Wild at Cheam Park February Half Term Activities Suitable for families Meet outside Cheam Park Cafe to hire a Nature Discovery Backpack to take off for a Wild Adventure.

Search for minibeasts, try a spot of birdwatching, make a nature crown and lots more activities and games. £3 per child, no need to book, and £10 returnable deposit per backpack hire. 11am-2pm 13 - 21 February Half Term Activities - Fun in the Jungle Honeywood Museum Carshalton, Surrey SM5 3NX Jungle fever has reached Honeywood. From elephant’s ears to slithery snakes, hop on down to Honeywood for drop in crafts and trails throughout opening hours.

Free.

15 February Family Treasure Hunt Gratton Park Reigate, Surrey, RH2 0TD Explore the Grounds with your children to discover and answer the clues to claim a prize. £7 accompanying adults free. 10am

– 11.30am & 1pm – 3.30pm.

16 - 18 February Wild Woodland Camp Painshill Portsmouth Road, Cobham, Surrey, KT11 1JE 16 February - Bush craft and Woodland Wide-Games Use fire irons to light your own camp fire and toast marshmallows before teaming up for exciting wide games and challenges. 9am – 4pm 17 February - Tree Trolls and Sand Castles Build massive sand castles complete with moat, waterfalls and dams. £40 per day. 9am–4pm 18 Feb - Dens, Camp Fires Hot Chocolate and Marshmallows Gather round the campfire to heat up the hot chocolate, make marshmallow s’mores and campfire doughnuts. 9am – 4pm Advance booking required. £40 per day. 01932 868113.

16 February Creation Station Workshops Denbies Wine Estate London Road, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6AA Fabulously fun activities for all ages.

16 February Honeywood Mini Explorers Kings and Queens Honeywood Museum Carshalton, Surrey SM5 3NX A look at some of the most famous Kings and Queens .New led sessions aimed at children 6-10. Each history discovery session will have lots of exciting, fun, hands on activities including crafts and stories. Must be prebooked. Please ring 020 8770 4297. Free. Donations welcome.

11am-1pm.

17 February Spring into Spring Gratton Park Reigate, Surrey, United Kingdom RH2 0TD Crafts, trails and activities to get you out of hibernation. 10am – 12noon & 1.30pm – 3.30pm 18 February Tropical Creepy Crawly Roadshow Denbies Wine Estate London Road, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6AA £7.50 per child. Accompanying adults free of charge. 11am and 2pm 18 – 20 February Book Fair Epsom Methodist Church Ashley Road, Epsom KT18 5AQ Annual Giant Charity Sale of secondhand books, DVDs and music. Many thousands of books including antiquarian, out-of-print, children's, fiction and nonfiction.

Also CDs, DVDs and records.

Refreshments and light lunches available. 50p entrance .Contact Jacqui Raggett, jbao.raggett@ btinternet.com for more details.

10am – 8pm

Polesden Lacey Great Bookham, near Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6BD 01372 452048

Morden Hall Park Morden Hall Road, Morden, London, SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850

Ham House and Garden Richmond, Surrey TW10 7RS 0844 249 1895

13 – 21 February Half term trail Secret Life of Dogs Fun family trail for the school holidays. Come and uncover the hidden secrets of Mrs. Greville’s beloved pets Normal admission, plus £2 per trail. 10am – 3.30pm

11, 18, 25 January 1 & 8 February Little Explores for Under 5’s Bring your little ones and enjoy crafts, outdoor activities, songs and stories together. From 10am – 11.15am & 1pm – 2.15pm.

Every weekend in January & February Art activities Create a piece of art inspired by your visit to Ham in the below stairs rooms. Normal admission charges apply

15 February Wild Learning Holiday Club Gives kids the chance to play, learn and explore all day in safe supervised woods. Den building, wild art, woodland games, tracking and more. £38. Ages 5 – 12 years.

Call 01483 424 400 or book online: www.wild-learning.net

13 - 21 February February Half Term Join in for popular storytelling sessions, art activities and children’s trail. Normal admission charges apply. 10am – 5pm

www.nationaltrust.org.uk London Surrey Borders

21

What's on

What’s on at the Theatre Before setting out please check details with the venue in case they have changed since we have gone to print ...and don’t forget to tell them you saw them in Families London-Surrey Borders!

Secombe Theatre 42 Cheam Road, Sutton, SM1 2SS Boxoffice: 020 3771 9055 www.suttontheatres.co.uk 6 February – 4 April Comedy Club 4 Kids Cracking entertainment for everyone over six years old and under 400 years old . The best comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best… but without the rude bits! £6.50 children. Ages 6+ Charles Cryer Studio Charles Cryer Studio Theatre 39 High Street, Carshalton, Surrey, SM5 3BB Box office: 020 3771 9317 www.suttontheatres.co.uk 24 February The Boy who bit Picasso “My name is Tony and I have the most extraordinary friend… Pablo Picasso!” Be sure to wear some play-clothes because it could get messy! £10 adults, £30 family ticket.. 4pm.

Ages 4+ 27 February According to Arthur According to Arthur… is an inspirational and heart-warming tale of an old man who re-engages with the outside world and the adventurous life he once led. £10, adults, £8 children, 1.30pm & 4.30pm. Ages 4+ The Epsom Playhouse Ashley Avenue, Epsom, Surrey KT18 5AL Box Office 01372 742 555 www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk 18 February The Little Match Girl A fun, festive twist on the well-known tale told through puppetry, song and light play, this is a joyful retelling of a Winter classic. £10.50.

2.30pm.

New Wimbledon Theatre The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1QG Boxoffice: 0870 060 6646 www.atgtickets.com/venues/new-wimbledontheatre 14 & 15 January Swan Lake The greatest romantic ballet of all time is brought to life by Tchaikovsky’s haunting and unforgettable score. From the impressive splendour of the Palace ballroom to the moonlit lake where swans glide in perfect formation, this compelling tale of tragic romance has it all.

From £21.40. 7.30pm 16 January The Snow Maiden Protected from the outside world by Father 22

January/ February 2016

Frost, the exquisite Snow Maiden plays innocently amongst the dancing snowflakes in the enchanted Land of Frost. Based on a traditional folk-tale, set in the snow covered landscape of rural Russia, this seasonal sparkler follows the Snow Maiden as she dances into the human world. From £21.40.

2.30pm, 7.30pm.

20 - 31 January Shrek the Musical Direct from the West End and larger than life.

Based on the award-winning DreamWorks animation film, Shrek the Musical is this year’s must-see show for all the family. From £15

The Colour House Theatre Merton Abbey Mills, London, SW19 2RD Box Office: 0208 542 5511 / 0208 543 9608 Every Saturday from 9 January Little Folk with Albo Popular Wimbledon folksinger/guitarist Al Clogston performs a series of Saturday morning concerts for kids. £5. 10.30am

15 February Sing-a-long-a Frozen 2016 Calling all Annas and Elsas!. From £15.90.

3.30pm

Every Saturday & Sunday from 6 February Hansel and Gretel Hansel and Gretel are lost in the forest with no hope of finding their way back home. When they find a house made of sweets they think their luck has changed, but things take a turn for the worse when they discover the house belongs to an evil witch. £12 Adults £10 Children. 2pm and 4pm

15 February Sing-a-long-a Grease Calling all Sandys and Dannys. From £15.90.

7.30pm

Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8PX 020 7960 4200 / 0844 847 9944 www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB Box Office 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com

10 February - 3 July The Wondercrump World of Roald Dahl Did you know that Roald Dahl used to be a spy? And also a fighter pilot, inventor and historian of chocolate? Embark on a magical and interactive journey through The Wondercrump World of Roald Dahl and discover the secrets of a writer beloved by gazillions of children. Adult £10 Child £8

31 January Sunday Story Sessions: Cerrie Burnell Polka Theatre are delighted to welcome CBeebies presenter and children's author Cerrie Burnell to Polka. Cerrie will be using her acclaimed books Snowflakes and Mermaid in an exciting interactive story telling session and will be available aterwards to sign copies, too!

All Ages, £7.50. 11am – 12pm Proceeds from this event will help support their work with libraries and other community partners, which give disadvantaged local children opportunities to experience live theatre at Polka.

5 January – 7 February Beauty & The Beast A red rose sparks an adventure for Belle and her prince, cursed with a beastly spell… The enchanting children’s classic comes to life this winter in an exhilarating Polka show brimming with adventure, music, magic and mystery.

Ages 6 - 12 25 – 28 February The Tigers Bones From a cautionary tale about eating the wrong person’s stew to a wild retelling of the nativity, these imaginative and funny stories by one of the giants of 20th century poetry take you to a timeless world of folklore, fable, mischief and mayhem. Tickets £13.50, Ages 7 – 11 years

Every Mon, Wed, Thurs & Fri from 12 - 19 February Dragon Babies Introduce your Dragon Babies to creative musical play through singing, movement and the beautiful sound of Gamelan percussion. £5 for one adult and child. 11am 15 February The Minpins Roald Dahl's epic story, The Minpins, is presented with music by Sibelius. The Minpins was Roald Dahl's last story. A small boy comes to the defence of a race of tiny forest people. Flying on the back of a magic swan, he defeats a fire-breathing monster who is terrorising them.Adult £10 Child £5. 12 noon 16 February Gong Babies On the island of Java many children experience the beautiful sounds of the gamelan (Javanese percussion orchestra) as babes in arms. This is an opportunity to immerse yourself and your baby in the meditative and mesmerising chimes of the gamelan in a relaxing music workshop. £5.

www.families-LSB.co.uk

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If you are interested please email your CV and covering letter to editor@families-lsb.co.uk, or for further details and an informal discussion call Tamar on 01923 775680.

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11+ Mock Tests

Stage - Mock 11+ 2 Sutton Schools Stage Orpington/Kent CEM1 style Mock Tests Selective BexleyEligibility Tests Test Grammar Schools 23/1/16 Dates: Dates: 30/3/15Fri – Mon. pm Dates: 20/2/15 Half Term 20/2/16 11/4/15Saturday – Sat. am 28/3/15 26/3/16 29/5/15 Half am Term 30/5/15Fri – Sat.

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London Surrey Borders

23

St Christopher’s School Nursery and Pre-Prep School for boys and girls aged 2 ½ - 7

You are warmly invited to visit our school

OPEN MORNINGS Thursday 3rd March 9.15am – 10.30am Saturday 5th March 10.30am – 12.30pm Please telephone to book a tour or to make arrangements for an alternative appointment.

6 Downs Road, Epsom, Surrey KT18 5HE 01372 721807 office@st-christophers.surrey.sch.uk

www.st-christophers.surrey.sch.uk January/ February 2016

www.families-LSB.co.uk