Families London Kent Borders September-October 2019 Issue 51

FREE

TAKE M

E HOM

E

®

London Kent Borders

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

News & views Clubs & classes Out & about Health Parenting Education

If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or selfemployed background, or you wish to develop an extraordinary lifestyle

please call Diana Page

01235 533362 • 07747 086518

Issue 51 Sept/Oct 2019 familiesonline.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk 1

Circus1903.com

GREAT FAMILY PRICES | ROYAL FESTIVAL HALL | 19 DEC 2019 – 5 JAN 2020

Get your child into your school of choice with Galore Park’s revision books

PRETESTS

11+ 13+

GalorePark.co.uk/familiesmag 2

Families London Kent Borders

Follow us on

®

London Kent Borders

Families London–Kent Borders Magazine or Twitter @familieslkb

In this issue...

ISSUE 51: SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2019

4

6

News & Views Calls for compulsory Climate Change education in schools, Picky Eaters Still Grow Up Healthy and more Clubs & Classes Trying a new club or class, Aqua Kids and more

10

the Right How to Choose Child School for your

Front cover: Matalan

8

Education Trinity School, Russell House & Babington Shcool

Editor: Mima Walia 07792 006546 editor@familieslondonkent.co.uk

Managing Editor: Sarah Hodgson Design: 45 Degrees Design & Print Listings Editor: Anna Blackshaw

12

Out & About The best of What’s On near you this Autumn Fundamental Movement Skills

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

Gymnastics based program for children aged from 18 months to five years to discover, explore and learn fundamental movement skills in a fun and engaging way.

Improve your child’s fitness and confidence!

Parent & Toddler and Independent classes held in Bickley, Bromley and Orpington.

For more details and how to book classes please contact us:

07976720908 Alternatively email cherylene@yunimoves.com www.yunimoves.com 3

News & Views

Picky eaters still grow up healthy Reduction in School Breaks ‘Unhealthy’ School break times are much shorter than they were two decades ago meaning children are missing out on valuable opportunities to make friends and develop social skills and exercise, according to research by the Nuffield Foundation.

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

It found that despite the length of the school day remaining much the same, break times are being squeezed even further with potential serious implications for children’s wellbeing and development.

Afternoon breaks have been virtually eliminated; they are now only available to 15% of primary school children and 1% of secondary schools. There is also a clear trend to shorter lunch breaks with reported lunchtimes of 35 minutes or less.

According to the authors, break times are important for children to get physical exercise – a particular concern given the rise in obesity, and to develop important social skills that are not learned in school lessons.

More info: www.nuffieldfoundation.org

Picky eating in toddlers is a well-documented phase when children don’t want to try new foods and/or show very strong preferences.

It can create much worry for parents, and has created a whole market for advice, guidance and tools to encourage young children to try lots of new tastes and textures.

But researchers from the University of Bristol using data from a study of children between the ages of 7 to 17 have found that instead of being harmed by their diets, children who had been picky eaters at age 3 were growing normally as adolescents with a healthy height and weight.

The researchers claim the study shows that even children who are picky as pre-schoolers usually eat well enough over time to ensure they grow properly.

For more on this topic go to www.bristol.ac.uk/news

School children to tackle speeding drivers An initiative in London is getting primary school pupils to confront speeding motorists, in a bid to enforce the 20mph speed limit near schools.

The Junior Roadwatch scheme involves drivers who are caught speeding and pulled over by police officers being given the option of receiving a fixed penalty fine and points on their license, attending a speeding awareness course or being told off by children.

Drivers “deemed suitable” to speak to the pupils following a police national computer check will face questions such as, “Are you aware of the consequences of speeding?” and “Why do you think the speed limit is 20mph on this road?”.

Collisions are a leading cause of serious injury, disability or death of children in the UK. In 2017, 48 children died in road collisions in the UK and over 15,700 children were injured.

Most parents don’t know

Similar schemes are being used elsewhere, including parts of Hertfordshire.

More than two thirds of parents don’t know how much exercise their child needs to do to stay healthy, new research has revealed.

NHS guidelines state that children ages 5 to 18 should do an hour of physical activity every day, but 68% of UK adults didn’t know this or thought the target was lower.

The survey of 2,000 adults, by YouGov for the Youth Sport Trust (YST), found that only a quarter knew the recommended exercise time for young people and on average people thought it was 46 minutes.

Meanwhile, figures recently released by Sport England show only 17.5% of children are reaching the 60-minute target daily.

More info: www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise 4

Families London Kent Borders

Visit www.tfl.gov.uk for more information.

News & Views

New Dads suffer mental health problems It is well recognised that new and expectant mothers can experience mental health problems, but little attention has been paid to new fathers.

Amidst recent research suggesting that at least 10% of new fathers suffer from depression, a new study has found new fathers can be beset by feelings of guilt and failure to live up to societal expectations to be stoic, strong and providers of support.

The researchers found that fathers often interpret their struggles as a personal failure as a man and father, and refuse to regard their own problems as legitimate compared to those of their partner. This leads to reluctance in reaching out or seeking advice, further compounding any issues and making isolation a significant problem.

New fathers also reported a lack of prior knowledge or awareness of the mental health challenges they could face as a result of having a baby.

For more information on this topic, visit: www.nct.org.uk/life-parent/dads-and-partners

Young stars Youngstars Holiday Camps focus on engaging children in physical activity and maintaining a positive experience of sport and activities. Their October Half Term camp at the Eric Liddell Leisure Centre is guaranteed to be full of fun and games with introductions & specialist coaching in a variety of sports throughout the week including football, rugby, swimming, tennis, netball, basketball, cricket, lacrosse, athletics, hockey and more Dates: Monday 21st-Friday 25th October

Ages 5-12yrs

OCTOBER HALF TERM CAMP WE ACCEPT

ILDCARE Basketball, Cricket, Swimming, Rugby, Golf, Tennis, CH VOUCHERS more... and n Badminto Football, Hockey, Netball,

TH MONDAY 21ST - FRIDAY 25 OCTOBER

Times: 8.30am - 5.30pm (Half day options of 8.30am -1pm & 1pm - 5pm available) Price: £16 p/half day, £32 p/full day, £4 p/extended session

Mottingham Lane, London, SE9 4QF Contact John on 07749 343116 or 0845 222 1313.

E: campbookings@young-stars.co.uk www.young-stars.co.uk

For further info please contact us on 07749 343116 or info@young-stars.co.uk • www.young-stars.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

5

Clubs & Classes

Trying a new club or class

By Claire Winter

Whatever the age of your child, trying a new activity or sport encourages them to be more adventurous and learn new skills.

Classes and clubs can enrich the days of the under 5s, giving them the chance to experience many different environments and activities. Vitally, these activities also provide social stimulation for parents too.

Meanwhile, the lives of older children have been changed by modern technology, and we need to strongly encourage them to be more active and step away from their smartphone, Xbox, or PlayStation. Thankfully, there is a huge range of organised after-school or weekend clubs and classes for children to attend, from pottery painting to coding.

Here are Families’ helpful tips for encouraging your child to try something new.

Target their Interests A good starting point is to look at your child’s current interests. Their school may offer a wide range of classes and clubs from IT to sport. Additionally, local sports centres, libraries and art centres are often teeming with opportunities to join classes and clubs. So don’t be afraid to look outside the school environment for things to do.

For active kids, why not consider something more challenging, such as climbing, caving or martial arts? Those interested in animals may find opportunities at your local zoo, petting farm or riding centre. For the creatively inclined, investigate an art class, reading or book club or a school newspaper or blog.

While it’s a little more difficult to assess the interests of preschoolers or toddlers, most enjoy sing and rhyme classes or activities that involve physical activity, like pre-school gymnastics or football.

Understand What’s Stopping Them Many children can be apprehensive about new experiences, but if your child is consistently shying away from trying new activities, sit down with them and try to find out why.

It could be a fear of not making friends, being bullied, low self-confidence about their abilities, or being in an unfamiliar environment. Once you know the cause of their anxiety, you can help address it.

6

Families London Kent Borders

If your toddler or pre-schooler is reluctant to join in a class, participate in the activity alongside them. It takes preschoolers time to get used to a new environment. Once they get used to the situation they will join in with gusto. I still have fond memories of my shy, twin girls dancing and singing at their first music class!

Tap into the Demand Factor and Co-Ordinate with Others Many children simply want to fit in, so if this is important to your child, look for new or popular activities. Our local directory can help you find potential classes and clubs that you may not know about.

Try talking to other parents and see what activities their children are involved in. You could even co-ordinate for your children to participate in the activity together. Simply knowing that their friends are interested in a new club or class may mean your child will be keener to get involved.

Emma, mum of an 8 year old says: “It took three years at school together before I discovered that one of my daughter’s friends attended a weekly roller-disco at our local sports centre and the opportunity to do something with her friend was enough to persuade my daughter to join in.”

You could also introduce a reluctant child to an activity their sibling does, or for younger children nervous about being alone, you can attend the first session with them.

For pre-school and toddler classes, co-ordinating with other parents in your network can feel more important than whether you feel your child will particularly enjoy an activity.

Structured activities can keep your little one occupied for a while and give you a welcome chance to make friends with other parents who have children at the same age and stage.

Highlight the Benefits Focus on the positive things your child will gain by taking part in a particular sport or activity. These could be a new social circle, certificates, medals or stickers, job or education opportunities in the future, greater confidence, getting fitter, or simply being with friends.

After-school and weekend clubs and classes are a great way for your child to stay active and learn new things.

Remember, it doesn’t matter what activity your child pursues, as long as they enjoy it.

Clubs & Classes

AQUAKIDS

By Maddie Crust and Lorna Crust

A new academic year is looming and with many changes ahead it’s understandable that some youngsters and parents will be feeling anxious about what lies ahead.

Swimming is one of the best forms of exercises that has been proven to improve mental wellbeing. Swimming has significantly reduced the symptoms of anxiety or depression for 1.4 million adults in Britain, according to research by Swim England.

Clearly, the simple activity of swimming has an immense effect on mental wellbeing, here are some reasons why:

1. Lower Anxiety and Depression Swimming, like all exercise, releases endorphins in the brain. These are natural feel-good hormones that increase happiness and a better sense of wellbeing.

The YouGov research found that 43% of respondents who swam regularly said that it makes them feel happier, with 23% saying they are more motivated to complete daily tasks and 15% believe that life feels more manageable.

2019

Celebrating 25 years of high quality swimming lessons

OCTOBER HALF TERM INTENSIVES AT BROMLEY HIGH 21-25 October 2019

8:15am • 8:45am • 9:15am • 9:45am Weekly term time Lessons at Bromley High, Bickley Park and Green Street Green. Adult and Child Lessons at Green Street Green

Swimming lessons that last a lifetime!

Visit our website: www.aquakids.co.uk Follow us at: @aquakidsuk

@aquakids.uk

Aquakids

NEW VENUE

2. Healthy Brain A recent study showed that being immersed in water boosts the blood flow to the brain, which increases levels of oxygen, glucose and nutrients which would improve brain health.

For example, a study carried out by the Griffith Institute for Educational Research found that those children who learnt to swim earlier in life developed major cognitive skills (such as literacy, numeracy and visual motor skills) earlier than their peers who learnt to swim later and non-swimmers.

0LGÀ HOG 3ULPDU\ 6FKRRO Grovelands Rd, Orpington BR5 3EG THURSDAYS 4PM - 5:30PM

3. Space to clear your head Concentrating on your stroke and technique while swimming can help to clear your head of all the worries and overwhelming thoughts. Paying close attention to the regular rhythm of your breathing and strokes can have almost a meditative effect on the mind, which is very relaxing.

Another important aspect of swimming is screen free time as being in a pool prevents you from being connected to your phone (or any other smart device) providing a well-needed break from these pressures.

5. Being part of a team Swimming can create a sense of community which can provide a safe and secure environment to both swimmer and parent. Aquakids ensures continuity with teachers and assistant and excellent communication so everyone is aware of the procedures and they pride themselves on genuinely caring about their swimmers and families

In conclusion – get in the water!

Visit www.aquakids.co.uk for more information

Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools

dr ama singing dance Schools in:

Bexleyheath Sevenoaks AND MORE!

3–18 years TWO WEEK TRIAL AVAILABLE. BOOK NOW!

T: 020 8447 4530 W: Jigsaw-arts.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

7

Education

Russell House gains top inspection rating Russell House has been rated ‘EXCELLENT’ on each key measure following its inspection.

Key findings are that the quality of the pupils’ academic achievements is excellent and the quality of the pupils’ personal development is excellent.

“Small classes, specialist teaching”

Trinity ranked 40th in the Parent Power list of Top 100 Independent Schools in the UK in 2018, making it the top ranked independent school in Croydon for the third year in a row. They were also shortlisted for Senior School of the Year at the TES Independent School Awards 2019.

Beyond academic results, they are a welcoming, diverse and friendly community in which students feel cared for and supported. Their students have achieved some of the best academic results in the country, but are also actively encouraged to take up the wealth of opportunities offered outside the classroom. As well as traditional pursuits, including sport, music, and drama, Trinity School also offer activities including Lego robotics, bee-keeping and special effects model making.

Boys are admitted from the age of 10 and they welcome girls into their Sixth Form. Students come from a wide geographical area and around half benefit from the Whitgift Foundation’s generous bursary scheme and scholarship awards. Visit them at their Open Morning on Saturday 5th October 2010 from 9am-12pm. www.trinity-school.org

On pupils’ personal development, the report highlights pupils’ ‘exemplary’ behaviour, high level of self-discipline and that they feel happy and secure in school.

To find out more, visit russellhouseschool.co.uk or call 01959 522352.

Babington House School Independent Day School from 3 to 18 years Grange Drive, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 5ES Headmaster: Mr T Lello, MA, FRSA, NPQH

Babington is in the top 50 schools in the country for A level results (GOV.UK League Tables 2018)

Excellent in all areas

ISI Report 2019

01959 522352 An independent prep school for boys and girls aged 2-11

www.russellhouseschool.co.uk 8

Families London Kent Borders

Open Morning Saturday, 12th October 2019 9.00am - 12 noon

Register Now www.babingtonhouse.com

Inspiring Teac hers, Inspirin g Children

Trinity School

The inspection report describes pupils’ excellent work ethic and notes their achievement is excellent because it is promoted by small classes, specialist teaching and generous staffing levels.

Education

Excellent Examination Results at Babington House School This year’s GCSE results were amazing with all the Babington students achieving the grades they needed to move on into Babington’s Sixth Form and other prestigious schools.

Emily was overjoyed to receive so many 9 grades saying there are only 1000 grade 9s in the county and I’ve got five of them! The coveted grade 9 is the

equivalent of a double starred A , and 7 equates to an A grade.

75% A* - A grades in Maths and Further Maths.

All the pupils exceeded their targets this year with 55% achieving grades 7-9 and 97% achieving grades 4-9.

“The individual achievement and hard work of the staff and pupils shines through in these results and I am absolutely delighted,” said Tim Lello, the Headmaster.

At A Level, Babington students achieved 84% A* - C grades and 100% pass rate.

The Mathematics students achieved

Independent Day School for Boys Co-Educational Sixth Form Shirley Park Croydon

OPEN MORNING

Saturday 5th October 2019 9am –12pm or visit us by appointment

A LEVEL CHOICES AND SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING

Monday 14th October 2019 by appointment CARING DEEPLY • OUTSTANDING LEARNING • JOINING IN • LOOKING OUTWARDS trinity-school.org familiesonline.co.uk

@TrinityCroydon

020 8656 9541 9

Education

How to choose the right school for your child

By Claire Winter

Whether for Primary or Secondary School, in the next few months the majority of parents have to make big decisions about what school preferences to shortlist for their child. But, don’t panic! Families has asked parents across the UK to give their top tips on how to make the right choices.

What Type of School?

Do your Research

to know whether you fulfil the entry requirements.

Do you want to choose a fee-paying or state school? Day or boarding? Singlesex or co-ed? What sort of school will suit your child? There are lots of factors to consider when you start looking at prospective schools. Mandy says: “Our son is really sensitive, and we felt a busy state school would not suit his character at all. We were lucky his grandparents offered to help with the school fees, so we chose a local independent school that didn’t have an entrance exam. He loves it.”

If you are looking at state schools, find out what catchment area you are in.

Your local LEA website can help with this. If you feel you might be on the edge of a catchment area, it’s worth asking your local authority or the school whether children where you live have been offered places in previous years.

Many independent schools have entrance exams which you need to understand. Similarly, if you live in a grammar school area you need to find out if you are in catchment for the school and when the 11+ examinations take place.

10

Families Herts

Linda says: “When we filled in our preference list for primary school, we already knew we might not get our first or second choice because the local authority had told us we were on the edge of the catchment area. This was really helpful because we made sure that we were slap bang in the middle of the catchment for our third and fourth choices.”

Visit the School

Make sure you research the admissions policy for all schools in which you are interested, state or independent, primary or secondary. Many primary schools have a siblings-first policy whilst schools that are affiliated to a church may have special requirements related to your family religion. You need

You can search for state school open days online, as well as finding out more about the school from their website.

Pay attention to the attitude of the school at open days. You want the school to be friendly and welcoming to you at this time. Lisa says: “I attended an open day at the school which was

It is vital that you visit all the schools you are interested in. Independent school open days are widely publicised and it’s worth visiting them at least a year before you need to apply in order to come up with an initial shortlist. You can then visit again closer to the time of making your applications.

Education our first choice for primary because it is an Outstanding school with a very good reputation. But I found the attitude of the school towards parents really off-putting. Basically we were told at the open day that they wouldn’t be answering any questions about the school until we got offered a place.

Needless to say, I scratched them off our list!”

It’s very helpful to book an appointment to see the school during the working day. This way you get to see how the pupils interact with the teachers and you can see if the school will really suit your child.

What is the Head Teacher Like?

Most Head Teachers make a speech at their school Open Days and these are well worth listening to. The Head is responsible for the ethos and vision of a school and is also a key decision maker.

She or he are also responsible for employing key staff responsible for both teaching and pastoral care and so his attitude and outlook are likely to trickle down throughout the school and be very influential overall. Isobel says: “We put a lot of weight on what the Head Master/Head Mistress was like. They really drive the culture of a school. Next up was the kids. Watching them interact with each other and their teachers.

That was a real eye-opener in some classrooms! We chose our primary school because when the Head Master asked a question they all put their hands up. He picked a girl to answer but got her name slightly wrong. She was confident to correct him, politely, before answering the question. That stood out for me as both respectful and confident - two characteristics I’d want my children to have.”

familiesonline.co.uk

Think about Logistics How far away is the school? If you work, do they have a good breakfast club and after-school care? Can your child get to school by bus or a coach or can they walk to school? Will you have to drive them? “I wanted my daughter to go to a school she could walk to,” says Amanda. “She could have travelled further by bus to a school with better results, but I loved the small size of our closest school and the emphasis they put on play.” Clare agrees: “I wanted my boys to go to a local school, primary and secondary, which they could walk to and from and benefit from physical exercise. Especially at secondary level, I wanted them to have local friends so that they could develop their independence and social skills outside of the school day. The academic performance of the school was secondary to these factors as I strongly believe that these other factors also contribute significantly to doing well at school.”

Will the School Suit your Child?

Some children may have special needs or find large, noisy schools scary; some may need to be challenged whilst others will do better in a school which is a bit more laid back. Think about what type of environment your child needs to thrive. An academic school or a school that is smaller and friendly?

Do they need additional support and can the school provide it? Do they need an organised and more structured day? Or are they more creative and require a school that focuses more on art and creative pursuits? Does your child have any friends going to that school? Anna Louise wanted a friendly school for her daughter. “When it came

to senior school, we visited the most academically successful school but found it very corporate. Then we went to a less academically successful school, but all of us loved its warmth and friendly atmosphere, so we chose it. Four years later, we have no regrets because the pastoral care has been superb. My daughter has been diagnosed with autism and anxiety, and the school has been wonderfully supportive. To succeed, children need to be happy and feel safe, and my daughter’s school does just that for her.”

Making the Decision Don’t be swayed by the opinions of other parents: you know what is best for your child. Choosing a school is down to individual choice and, once you’ve done the research and homework, remember to listen to your heart, as well as your head and, of course, prioritise your child’s wellbeing first and foremost.

If your child is old enough, make sure you include them in the process of choosing a school. Let them look around the schools with you and ask them what they think. Talk with them about the decision-making process and make the decision with them.

Then trust that you have all made the right choice and that all will work out for the best..

11

Out & About EVERY WEDNESDAY BIGGIN HILL MEMORIAL MUSEUM Main Road, Biggin Hill, TN16 3EG

Session for Under 5s Bring your little one every Wednesday at 10.30, to join in with engaging sessions for Under 5s aimed at stimulating and educating through touch, sense, play and sound. Sing songs, listen to stories, handle objects from the museum collection and have fun with parachute games.

Ticket £2.50 per child, includes one free hot drink in the café per accompanying adult after the session.

EVERY SAT BROMLEY PARKRUN Norman Park, Hayes Lane, Bromley, BR2 9EF Weekly free 5km timed run. Go along and join in whatever your pace! Please register before your first run. 9:00am 0300 303 8658 www.parkrun.org.uk/bromley

EVERY SUN

We take great care in compiling our events guide, but check with the venues before you leave home just in case times or prices have changed since we went to print.

1, 8, 13, 15, 22 AND 29 SEP & 6, 13, 19, 20 AND 24-27 OCT

7 SEPTEMBER

MRS WOLFE’S RECIPES

Blake Gallery, Woodville Place, Gravesend, DA12 1DD

National Trust Quebec House, Quebec Square, Westerham, Kent, TN16 1TD

Time: 1-4pm Recreate some of Mrs Wolfe’s eighteenth century recipes such as lemon drops, King or Queen cakes or macaroons. Tastings available. Booking not needed www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quebechouse

Gravesend Town Centre

Time: 10.30am-4pm FREE to spectate – go and enjoy the event whilst shopping in town.

FREE Parking in all GBC car parks all day www.visitgravesend.co.uk

The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1ED

BACH TO BABY: KEYS TO ROMANCE

Hall Place & Gardens, Bourne Road , Bexley, Kent, DA5 1PQ

Time: Gates open at 6pm, film starts approx. 7.30pm Cost: £9 – £11 This film will make you feel kinda magic! Follow the dramatic highs and lows of the iconic group Queen. We dare you not to stomp your feet and sing along! Plenty of free parking, onsite bar and refreshments available or bring your own.

CRAFT FAIR Hever Road, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

Head to Hever Castle in September for a new contemporary craft fair organised

by Craft In Focus. Over the four days you will be able to discover around 120 exhibitors from the UK’s finest designer makers and contemporary artists at this craft fair based in the heart of the Kentish countryside. www.hevercastle.co.uk 01732 865224

OUTDOOR CINEMA Gravesend Community Square, Windmill Street, Gravesend, Kent DA12 1AU

LYRIC THEATRE 29 NOV - 5 JAN

9 SEPTEMBER BRING YOUR OWN BABY COMEDY The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1ED

The shows feature the funniest comedy stars from the circuit and TV. The events are all about you, the parents! But don’t worry – the younger guests are also taken great care of. Adults age 18+ and babies under 15 months. www.orchardtheatre.co.uk 01322 220000

14 SEPTEMBER AND 5 OCTOBER MUM2MUM NEARLY NEW SALE

www.mum2mummarket.co.uk

Based on the books by Kes Gray and Jim Field. Published by Hachette Children’s Group

TA ON S

www.orchardtheatre.co.uk 01322 220000

Grab a bargain or sell your nearly new items. Refreshments, cake, face painter and kids activities at every event. Free car park. 10am12noon.

6 SEPTEMBER

LIVEGE

Time: 10am-2pm Go backstage as The Orchard Theatre is opened for you to explore! Go along for a fun-filled morning as the curtain is lifted on the exciting world of theatre.

Ravens wood School, Oakley Road, Bromley BR2 8HP

www.gravesham.gov.uk

Shaftesbury Avenue nimaxtheatres.com Families Herts London Kent Borders

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/red-house

OPEN AIR CINEMA: BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY

Time: 6.30-8.30 pm All are welcome to an Outdoor Cinema showing of The Greatest Showman on Community Square.

12

Time: 11am-4.15pm Red House is participating in Open House London 2019, opening their doors for free for one annual weekend as part of a city-wide engagement event.

Booking not needed.

24 SEPTEMBER

FROM 5 TO 8 SEPTEMBER

SOUTH EAST STRONGEST MAN

Red House, Red House Lane, Bexleyheath, London, DA6 8JF

OPEN HOUSE 2019

Cascades Leisure Centre, Thong Lane, Gravesend, DA12 4LG

1 SEPTEMBER

info@visitgravesend.co.uk www.visitgravesend.co.uk

OPEN HOUSE LONDON 2019

8 SEPTEMBER

www.hallplace.org.uk 01322 526 574

www.gmmes.co.uk

Time: 10am-3pm Go along and create a Matisse inspired collage. Open to any age or ability, from little ones to grown ups! All materials are supplied. No booking required, just turn up and be creative.

FROM 21 TO 22 SEPTEMBER

5 SEPTEMBER

MINIATURE STEAM TRAIN RIDES Whatever the weather the miniature trains runs every Sunday from April to October, 2pm until 5pm, at the grounds of the Cascade Leisure Centre. 50p a ride – FUN FOR ALL!

FREE FAMILY WORKSHOP

14 SEPTEMBER AND 12 OCTOBER MUM2MUM NEARLY NEW SALE Christchurch Hall, Christchurch Road, Dartford, Kent, DA1 3DH.

Grab a bargain or sell your nearly new items. Refreshments, cake, face painter and kids activities at every event. Free car park.

2-4pm.

Bromley United Reformed Church, 20 Widmore Road, Bromley BR1 1RY

Time: 10.30am This September, Bach to Baby will sweep you off your feet with the ‘Keys to Romance’ - all 88 of them! Hold tight as 10 fingers swoosh over the black and white keys, bringing the 19th Century greats to life. All topped off with your favourite nursery rhymes. www.bachtobaby.com/bromley music-concerts-for-baby-and-family

28 SEPTEMBER LONDON HARVEST FESTIVAL The Woodlands Farm Trust, 331 Shooters Hill, Welling DA16 3RP

Time: 12-5pm The annual London Harvest Festival with animal shows, craft demonstrations and children’s activities. A wonderful day bringing together London’s city farms and community gardens. www.thewoodlandsfarmtrust.org 020 8319 8900

FROM 28 TO 29 SEPTEMBER HOPE AND GLORY Fort Gardens, Commercial Place, DA12 2BH

Cost: £2.50 A fun day out for all the family at Gravesend’s Wartime Weekend.

There will be Stalls, Living History, Vehicles, Entertainment, Dancing and Refreshments. www.wartimerelived

FROM 28 TO 29 SEPTEMBER THE DAY I FELL INTO A BOOK Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley, BR1 1HA

BRING YOUR OWN BABY COMEDY

Using sound, intimate lighting and projection The Day I Fell Into A Book takes its audience into a lost world of classic tales. Bit by bit, the fiction becomes reality as the stories seep into the room and our imaginations take over.

Suitable for 8-12 year olds and their grown ups.

Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley, BR1 1HA

www.churchilltheatre.co.uk 020 3285 6000

www.mum2mummarket.co.uk

16 SEPTEMBER

The shows feature the funniest comedy stars from the circuit and TV. The events are all about you, the parents! But don’t worry – the younger guests are also taken great care of. Adults age 18+ and babies under 15 months. www.churchilltheatre.co.uk 020 3285 6000

FROM 28 TO 29 SEPTEMBER HEVER CASTLE TRIATHLON Hever Road, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

The annual Hever Castle Triathlon weekend takes place on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 September.

Challenge yourself to one of the many race distance on offer – with events suitable for beginners to elite athletes you are sure to find a race to tempt. For more details and to book please visit the Castle Triathlon website. www.hevercastle.co.uk 01732 865224

Out & About

Family fun is guaranteed at Hever Castle & Gardens this Autumn Enjoy Autumn Colour at Hever Castle & Gardens with free garden tours, stunning walks and a Leaf & Seed Collection Challenge (from 1st October).

Experience a magical adventure at Bluewater’s Grotto with The Nutcracker Prepare your family for an enchanting Christmas adventure, as tickets for Bluewater’s Grotto are now on sale!

Located on the bank of the picturesque lakes at the West Village, children can expect to meet a host of wonderful characters that will guide them through the story of The Nutcracker. The adventure will take them through the realms of flowers, snowflakes and sweets where they’ll get to make a festive craft.

Ghostly storytelling, Halloween crafts, a scarecrow scavenger hunt and deadly delicious biscuit decorating workshops* (*small additional charge) take place during Halloween half term (19-31 October).

With welcoming log fires, and beautiful decorations in the Castle, a Christmas trail to follow and the chance to see Father Christmas – be enchanted by the magic of Christmas at Hever (23 November-24 December).

The theme is Alice in a Christmas Wonderland. Fall down the rabbit hole and follow the whimsical trail through the grounds to try and catch up with the white rabbit, join the Mad Hatter at his tea party and meet the infamous Queen of Hearts.

Finally, children will meet the Sugar Plum Fairy who will help to prepare them for the most important part of the experience – meeting Santa.

Children will receive a collectable plush toy and professional photographs can be purchased at the shop.

Tickets for Bluewater’s Grotto are available to book now at bluewater.co.uk

OI FROG & FRIENDS! LEAPS INTO THE WEST END THIS WINTER Join FROG, DOG and CAT live on stage in Oi Frog & Friends! at the Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue for a strictly limited season from 29 November 2019 to 5 January 2020.

Packed with music, songs, laughs and more rhymes than you can shake a chime at!

Are you sitting comfortably?

‘Cats sit on mats, hares sit on chairs, mules sit on stools, gophers sit on sofas and frogs sit on logs’ Kenny Wax Family Entertainment presents the premiere of Oi Frog & Friends! the highly anticipated stage show which brings together Kes Gray and Jim Field’s bestselling and award-winning picture books Oi Frog!, Oi Dog! and Oi Cat! published by the Hachette Children’s Group, into one action-packed musical production.

Oi Frog & Friends! opens at the Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue from 29 November 2019 until 5 January 2020. familiesonline.co.uk

Prior to its West End premiere, Oi Frog & Friends! previews at Frensham Heights, Farnham (12 October) and plays Norwich Playhouse (15-20 October) before heading to Ipswich, New Wolsey Theatre (24-25 October), Hertford Theatre (26-27 October) and The Rose Theatre, Kingston (29 October-3 November) for half term fun.

Hailed as one of the bestselling picture book series of the decade, with more than 900,000 copies sold to date and growing, Oi Frog & Friends! is created for the stage by Emma Earle, Zoe Squire, Luke Bateman and Richy Hughes. Cast to be confirmed.

Author Kes Gray says, “Just when we thought we knew where we were heading, Oi takes a leap in an entirely new direction! Working with Kenny and his outstanding creative team is a dream come true. Jim and I have already booked our front row seats and can’t wait to see where this new adventure will take us.”

Illustrator Jim Field says, “I am pinching myself about Oi Frog! now coming to the stage later this year. It’s wonderful!

Kenny Wax Family Entertainment have produced some incredible awardwinning shows based on prolific children’s books so I can’t wait to see how they bring our characters to life for the Oi fans!”

For the full performance schedule & to book visit www.nimaxtheatres.com 13

Out & About 29 SEPTEMBER

5 OCTOBER

FROM 8 TO 12 OCTOBER

FROM 18 TO 20 OCTOBER

CHEEKI MONKEYS BIG BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKETS

WITH MAP AND MUSKET

GREASE THE MUSICAL

PEPPA PIG’S BEST DAY EVER!

Gravesend Borough Market, Queen Street, Gravesend, Kent DA11 0AZ

National Trust Quebec House, Quebec Square, Westerham, Kent, TN16 1TD

Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley, BR1 1HA

The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1ED

Time: 10am-2pm Go along to the Cheeki Monkeys Big Baby & Children‘s Market. Save up to 90% on quality pre-loved goods! Clothes, toys, prams, cots, walkers, high chairs, books, playpens and much more!

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ quebechouse

The world’s best-loved musical is back! With its phenomenal score, bursting with hits including Summer Nights, Greased Lightnin’, Hopelessly Devoted to You and You’re the One That I Want, this thrilling new version is bought to life by a fresh young cast who bring energy, vitality and passion to this ultimate musical classic.

Times: 10am, 1pm, 4pm Peppa Pig is excited to be going on a day out with George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig - it’s going to be her best day ever!

Prepare for the brand new Peppa Pig live show packed full of songs, games and laughter, it really is the best day ever for Peppa Pig fans!

www.cheekimonkeys.co.uk

Bring history to life with an historic re-enactment. Join the eighteenth century surveyor as he explains how map makers played a key role in the Quebec campaign.

5 OCTOBER ALTOGETHER STRONGER – CARIBBEAN EVENT Gravesend Borough Market, High Street, Gravesend, Kent, DA11 0AZ

OCTOBER HALF-TERM BIGGIN HILL MEMORIAL MUSEUM Main Road, Biggin Hill, TN16 3EG

Celebrate October half-term at the Biggin Hill Memorial Museum.

Be inspired by the beautiful surroundings of St George’s RAF Chapel of Remembrance and take part in the stained-glass window craft activity. Suitable for children of all ages, the family craft activity is free with the price of an entrance ticket and runs on Saturday and Sunday October 19th and 20th between 11am and 3pm and again on Wednesday October 23rd to Sunday October 27th 11am to 3pm. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Time: 1-5pm This will be the first of the Altogether Stronger project events. This event will bring together the community with a celebration of Music, Food & Entertainment.

www.churchilltheatre.co.uk 020 3285 6000

FROM 9 TO 10 OCTOBER I BELIEVE IN UNICORNS Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley, BR1 1HA

FROM 5 TO 6 OCTOBER

An enchanting and interactive production, I Believe in Unicorns, which won an Argus Angel Award for Artistic Excellence at Brighton Festival, sparks imagination in both young and old. We challenge you not to believe in unicorns after joining Tomas’ spellbinding journey. Ages 6+.

HOG’S HOLE APPLE WEEKEND AT RED HOUSE

www.churchilltheatre.co.uk 020 3285 6000

Red House, Red House Lane, Bexleyheath, London, DA6 8JF

13 OCTOBER

www.gravesendboroughmarket.co.uk

A weekend celebrating the ancient orchard at Red House and its produce. Stalls of local produce, heritage apples to try and buy, an apple press, hot mulled cider and a host of children’s activities and trails all set in the beautiful grounds of Arts & Crafts gem Red House. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/red-house

www.orchardtheatre.co.uk 01322 220000

19 OCTOBER JAY FOREMAN’S DISGUSTING SONGS FOR CHILDREN The Woodville, Woodville Place, Gravesend, Kent, DA12 1DD

Time: 2-3pm Cost: Adult £10, Child £12, Grand £8 A devilishly cheeky hour of songs, poems and comedy for children of all ages in this family friendly show. www.woodville.co.uk 01474 337500

FROM 19 TO 27 OCTOBER HALF-TERM ACTIVITY TRAIL

APPLE DAY The Woodlands Farm Trust, 331 Shooters Hill, Welling DA16 3RP

Time: 11am-4pm An annual celebration of the British Apple and a wonderful opportunity to purchase a variety of different British apples. www.thewoodlandsfarmtrust.org 020 8319 8900

Lullingstone Country Park, Castle Road, Eynsford, Kent, DA4 0JF Time: 10am-3pm Cost: £3 Explore the woods following the self-led activity trail and see what you can discover about the park.

All completed trails will receive a small prize. www.kent.gov.uk 03000 41 18 11

REMEMBERING THE FEW; HONOURING THE MANY

Visit a living legacy, dedicated to the men and women who lived and served there, whose resilience made Biggin Hill Churchill’s ‘strongest link’. www.bhmm.org.uk

14

Families London Kent Borders

Out & About

We take great care in compiling our events guide, but check with the venues before you leave home just in case times or prices have changed since we went to print.

FROM 19 TO 27 OCTOBER

24 OCTOBER

OCTOBER HALF TERM AT RED HOUSE

THE SPOOKY MAGIC SHOW

Red House, Red House Lane, Bexleyheath, London, DA6 8JF

Let the Goblin Market poem and illustrations inspire you to create your own creature filled artistic piece. Whether its literature or drawing, find the creatures and their lost fruits around the garden and piece them back together. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/red-house

FROM 19 TO 31 OCTOBER

Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley, BR1 1HA

Join Magic Mr Steve and his faithful friend Rufus the dog as they discover the magical mysteries in a haunted attic. With amazing magic tricks, spooky special effects and hilarious puppets, The Spooky Magic Show returns to the Churchill Studio for a Halloween themed treat.

Ages 4+. www.churchilltheatre.co.uk 020 3285 6000

HALLOWEEN HALF TERM FUN Hever Castle, Hever Road, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

Prepare to be spooked this Halloween at Haunted Hever. For autumn half term there will be a vast array of spook-tacular events on at the Castle for you and your little ones. www.hevercastle.co.uk 01732 865224

FROM 19 OCTOBER TO 3 NOVEMBER HALLOWEEN: BEASTLY BAT TRAIL Chartwell - National Trust, Mapleton Road, Westerham, Kent, TN16 1PS.

Go along to Chartwell this half term for a Halloween family trail! Fly around the gardens of Chartwell this autumn half term and discover more about the beastly bats that live there. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell

27 OCTOBER HALLOWEEN MAGIC Lullingstone Castle, Eynsford, Kent, DA4 0JA

Time: 12-7pm Cost: £10 adult - children under 15 go FREE Go along for Halloween Magic on the last day of the season; pumpkin carving, spooky house, garden tours and Halloween inspired light bites in the cafe marquee – perfect for all the family. Garden tours at 1pm & 5pm – learn about the origins of pumpkins, colours and varieties and children can spot the Halloween tricks in eerie torchlight! Spooky House tours at 2pm & 6pm including tales of the resident ghost! Fancy dress is welcome – let’s celebrate the end of the season in style! £2 donation for the pumpkin carving.

RIP

RIP

RIP

RIP

www.lullingstonecastle.co.uk

20 OCTOBER NICK SHARRATT’S RIGHT ROYAL DRAWALONG

LONDON’S FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS SHOW

The Woodville, Woodville Place, Gravesend, Kent, DA12 1DD

Time: 2-3pm Cost: Adult £10, Child £12, Grand £8 Learn how to sketch your favourite characters and fantastic creatures! Take pencils, paper and something to lean on. Suitable for ages 4+.

10 NOVEMBER

www.woodville.co.uk 01732 865224

Main Road, Biggin Hill, TN16 3EG

21 OCTOBER BRING YOUR OWN BABY COMEDY Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley, BR1 1HA

The shows feature the funniest comedy stars from the circuit and TV. The events are all about you, the parents! But don’t worry – the younger guests are also taken great care of. Adults age 18+ and babies under 15 months. www.churchilltheatre.co.uk 020 3285 6000

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY Commemorate Remembrance Sunday on 10th November at the Biggin Hill Memorial Museum.

Make a tissue paper poppy in remembrance of those who have given their lives in conflicts past and present or inscribe a message or symbol on a remembrance pebble to honour those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in times of war. Our family craft activity is free with the price of a ticket. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Based on Raymond Briggs’ The Snowman Music and lyrics by Howard Blake

“Sheer theatrical magic. Go see The Snowman and melt”

www.bhmm.org.uk

The Times

24 OCTOBER HARRY POTTER THEMED – HALF TERM EVENT Gravesend Borough Market, High Street, Gravesend, Kent, DA11 0AZ

Time: 11am-3pm As part of the town centre events, the market will be hosting a selection of workshops, storytelling sessions and Harry Potter themed shows. www.gravesendboroughmarket. co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

£120 ONLY KETTransa LY TIC FAMI applies. Max £3 fee ction child 1 least at e , must includ 4 tickets

21 Nov – 5 Jan

peacocktheatre.com 15