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Choosing a Prep school Baby and Toddler Play Classes

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For loads of local information for families in Epsom and Ewell, Sutton, Croydon and nearby areas.

Issue 55: March-April 2014

Easter Egg Trails

Childcare choices

From birth to 2 years +

Make the most of play time together with musical, physical and sensory fun - for your little one and you!

Classes on Wednesdays in Caterham from February 2014 Classes on Thursdays in Coulsdon from March 2014 Classes on Tuesdays in Redhill from April 2014 Call or book online to reserve your place Call Doreen on 07530 541986

www.TotsPlay.co.uk

S

h c a o c e tag Theatre Arts

“Inspiring and enriching young people through the performing arts” For 4-18 year olds, after school, at weekends and holiday workshops

Book now - limited places!

Cheam. . . . . . . . 020 8224 2442

Mitcham . . . . . . 020 8942 3502

Coulsdon . . . . . 0845 078 0805

Shirley . . . . . . . . 020 8949 1116

Croydon . . . . . . 0845 265 7083

Sutton . . . . . . . . 01737 270060

Epsom . . . . . . . . 020 8642 3500

Worcester Park 020 8224 2442

Merton Park . . . 020 8942 3502

www.stagecoach.co.uk

News & Views local What's On listing

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For a

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www.Families-LSB.co.uk

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For loads of local information for families in Epsom and Ewell, Sutton, Croydon and nearby areas.

Issue 55: March-April 2014

Easter Egg Trails

Choosing a Prep school

Childcare choices

Editor: Izabella Shaw 0208 669 5187 editor@Families-LSB.co.uk www.Families-LSB.co.uk Cover photo: © Maygutyak - Fotolia.com

‘Families London-Surrey Borders’ is part of a group of magazines

headed by ‘Families South West’ established in 1990. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care preparing this magazine, but

the publishers and its agents cannot be held responsible for loss

or damage, or for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of

the contents nor for any consequence. Colour transparencies and

any other original materials submitted are sent at owners risk and, whilst every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liability for any loss or damage.

IN THIS ISSUE News and views . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 – 3 Clubs, classes and activities . . . . . . 4 – 7 Childcare: your options . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Childcare: Wrap-around care at school . . 9 Behind the Scenes: Kingswood House . 10 Education: all about Prep schools . . . . 12 Education: School open days . . . . . . 13 Education news . . . . . . . . . . . 14 – 15 Get up, Get out and get Active . . . . . . 16 Parent-toddler groups at local schools . 17 Lots of things for families to do locally What’s On – Theatres . . . . . . . . . . . 18 What’s On – Easter Egg trails and hunts 19 What’s On for families . . . . . . . 20 – 22 What’s on – Easter clubs & classes . . . 23 Classified advertisers . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Theo wins again

Join us on Twitter and Facebook Families Magazine is now Tweeting. We’re at @FamiliesLSB. Why not follow us? Our tweets can tell you whenever we update our site with competitions, news items, and when we update the What’s On section of our site with new venues and things to do.

We’re also posting updates and stories at Facebook.com/FamiliesLSB. Again, whenever we get late-breaking news or web-only competitions, we can let you know about them. But only if you ‘Like’ our page.

@FamiliesLSB Printed by Russell Press Ltd, Basford, Nottingham NG6 0BT Tel: (0115) 9784505 www.russellpress.com © 2014 Families London-Surrey Borders.

Ski-ing for families with Chilly Powder

Congratulations go to Sutton-based Theo Theodoris, better known as Theo the Magician, who beat hundreds of hopefuls to come runner-up in the party category for the London region of the Netmums’ awards – dubbed the parenting Oscars.

Morzine, just on the French side of the Swiss French border and south of Lake Geneva, offers families a special experience. From walking to local mountain villages and tasting their local cheeses to a day out in a hot-air balloon or whitewater rafting, Morzine has it all.

For party bookings, please contact Theo The Magician www.magictheo.com 07711 724129

To top it all, in summer there is a brilliant way to explore really cheaply – the summer Multi Pass costs just 2 euros a day, gives free mountain lifts, shuttle buses and other travel between resorts as well as free entry to many local attractions including Aquariaz, the new water park up in Avoriaz.

To experience the area at its best, call Paul and Francesca Eyre at Chilly Powder. Choose a self-catered chalet (with optional chef) – or join the Chilly Powder party next door at ‘Au Coin du Feu’ for dinners that you usually only dream of.

hool kery Sc

Coo

ring nt Cate

Eve

Supper

Club

Looking to improve your skills?

Sign up for a fun informative cookery course Throwing a party and want to wow with amazing food?

Let us cater for you Can’t think what to cook tonight?

Order your freshly made meal today

Whatever your need, we can cater for you Visit our website: www.jacecatering.co.uk Telephone us on 020 3657 3917 JACE The Catering Company

With drinks in the bar – or in the Jacuzzi on the terrace – early evening meals for the children and a daytime crèche for little ones not quite so active as you, Paul and Francesca will make you wish that this was home. www.morzine.com | www.morznet.com | www.allmountainrental.co.uk www.chillypowder.com – for more details about the Chilly Powder chalets and Paul and Fran’s ideas for great days out

Are you struggling with a child who has speech, language or communication difficulties?

Fun based communication, social and life skill activities for children with delayed Speech & Language.

Ages 3-11 years old Classes in Croydon, Banstead and surrounding areas

@JACECatering

0203 0868132 www.artofgrowthcentre.co.uk Email: enquiries@artofgrowthcentre.co.uk mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 2 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

March-April 2014

News & Views TheatreBugs launches BabyBugs parties

Mother’s Day Treats from Say it Personally

Theatrebugs Epsom & Guildford now runs BabyBug parties suitable from birth to 2 years.

Forget saying it with flowers. Gift company Say it Personally has an unique solution for Mother’s Day gifts.

These sensory adventures are for babies, walkers and their grown-ups. The BabyBug Party Leader is armed with parachute, puppets, bubbles, shakers, scarves and much more: all the ingredients required for 40 minutes of fun and bonding with your baby.

Say It Personally specialises in unique, quality gifts with a difference, delivered to the door to make any occasion extra special.

The session is bursting with song, rhyme, bouncy beats and an enchanting interactive puppet story.

Lots of giggles too. Choose a theme from On the Farm, At the Jungle or Teddy Bear’s Picnic.

To celebrate the launch Theatrebugs Epsom & Guildford is delighted to offer each reader 10% off a BabyBug Party booked before April 21st Enter code “TummyTime”. Prices start from £98. BabyBug parties are perfect for birthdays, christenings or family gatherings.

01483 882244 hannahmason@theatrebugs.co.uk Or visit: http://www.theatrebugs.co.uk/surrey.html

Researchers seek babies in autism and ADHD study Just in case you missed the full story in our last issue, the world-leading ‘Babylab’ at Birkbeck, University of London, is launching a new Europe-wide study of the early emergence of autism and ADHD. With over £2.5 million in funding, Professor Mark Johnson and his team are now launching the Studying Autism and ADHD Risk in Siblings (STAARS) project This aims to map brain development from birth in order to identify the earliest signs of these lifelong social communication and attention disorders.

The research will focus on infants who have older siblings with autism or ADHD as these infants are at particularly high risk for these disorders.

Chocaholics will love the Choc-a-Block Gift Box, “choc-full” of goodies, or how about the Ladies’ Indulgent Gift Box containing fruit-flavoured vodka and hand-made chocolate to give her a real treat? Their range also includes unusual gift sets such as Mum’s Coffee Time, and the tongue-incheek “Hiccupping Housework”.

Can you and your baby help? Expenses are paid and mothers we met said they spent a very special day with their child, which they really enjoyed.

To read more about the STAARS project and to take part go to www.staars.org

Labels4Kids launches new labelling products Labels4Kids have introduced another multi pack of labels available on their new website.

If you know an expectant mum, why not make her first “Mother’s Day” with something from their range of baby gifts like their Sunshine Bouquet – finalist in the Gift of the Year 2013?

Want snap on tags and vinyl labels as well? Then why not combine them with the new snappy school pack? This gives you the advantage of vinyl waterproof labels for all your non-clothing items, two bag tags as well as re-applying snap on snappy tags etched with a name (and also a phone number if you wish).

Other new lines include TSA luggage straps personalised with name, or cut and bagged sewon labels which have the edges pre-sealed to stop fraying.

They also run competitions regularly on the Labels4Kids Facebook page. www.labels4kids.com/fam

Confidence Building Fun Try a Free Drama Class mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 3 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

We especially like the “Deluxe Sock Bouquet” which looks like a stunning bouquet of flowers, but unwraps to reveal five pairs of ladies’ socks and delicious chocolate hearts. If you’re on a smaller budget they also have cute “Choc & Sock Bouquets” in various designs – or why not combine these with a bottle of bubbly with their “Champagne & Flowers” Gift box.

Priding themselves on a fantastic customer service and attention to detail, Say It Personally has a great range for any occasion – babies, birthdays and beyond – all hand finished and beautifully presented for that extra special touch. See the website at www.sayitpersonally.co.uk 01482 638355

Watch your child’s self-esteem soar with our weekly classes for 4–12s Child development is at the heart of everything we do. So our drama, dance and singing sessions will boost your child’s confidence, improve their concentration and give them an outlet to have fun.

Call 0845 400 1273 or visit perform.org.uk for a free class at your nearest venue.

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

March-April 2014

Activities, Clubs & Classes

Dance Studio

At Dance Studio 84 we offer:  Quality dance tuition within a fun environment  RAD Ballet Classes  RAD Ballet Examinations  Pre-School Ballet Classes  All teachers are CRB checked  100% pass rate  Free trial class available  Classes in Crawley, Croydon & Bromley

www.dancestudio84.co.uk

Melissa.lodge@diddidance.com

07939 520 638

Epsom Children to benefit from pop-up bake clubs In addition to holiday clubs, Learn To Cook is now offering a monthly junior pop-up bake club and the next one is on Saturday 10 May from 1.30-3.30pm.

Pop-up bake clubs are for children over 7 and give them a taster for just how enjoyable learning to cook can be. Each pop-up club has a theme: Cake Pops, Cool Cupcake Decorating, Chocolate Heaven, Tea time Treats to name a few. If they really do enjoy it, Learn to Cook can arrange a party for them and some friends around a cooking theme of their choice. They can learn and have fun at the same time. Each session costs £20 per child. Cooking parties can also be booked all year round Learn to Cook learntocook.info@gmail.com www.learntocookgoodfood.com

It’s official – Monkey Music is 21 2014 is a very exciting year for Monkey Music as the company celebrates 21 years of Monkey Music classes across the UK.

http://www.atlantisswimschool.co.uk/

little monkeys in the whole wide world. We are making the most of the occasion and having lots of fun all year long with Monkey’s birthday party celebrations happening across the country in June.”

Angie Coates, Monkey Music’s founder and managing director said “I am very proud and excited to be celebrating Monkey’s 21st birthday year with the most brilliant teachers and the loudest and happiest band of

To book your free class at your local venue and find out more about the birthday celebrations visit the Monkey Music website at www.monkeymusic.co.uk

Art Classes in Epsom to start in the Holidays

- Inspiration and discipline Fridays at - Strength and grace Coulsdon Community Centre - Great Posture for life Starting at £4.50 per class - Musicality FREE TRIAL CLASS - Confidence - Friendship, focus and much more!

Principal Emma Northmore Ex-English National Ballet Co. 07958 725862 emmanorthmore@yahoo.com

Book your FREE trial today!

Funky pre-school dance classes for girls & boys For classes in Addiscombe, Mitcham, Croydon & Purley,

call Melissa on 07939 520 638

Diddi Dance parties also available

For classes in Banstead, Epsom, Hooley, Wallington, West Ewell & Cheam,

call Jo on 07873 634292 Diddi Dance parties also available

www.diddidance.com

In addition to her regular, term-time classes in the Epsom area, Michaela Suleman is now offering holiday art classes. Her first holiday classes were held during February half term and she is now taking bookings for her summer holiday classes.

Michaela says about her classes, ̏They aim to help children develop their full creative potential, which is achieved through the use of a variety of fun and engaging activities. As a successful professional artist, I encourage children to think creatively whilst teaching them how to draw and paint, work with clay, make jewellery or papier mâché projects.ˮ Classes are held in Epsom on Tuesdays and Thursdays after school. For more information or to book a free trial class please contact Michaela Suleman.

Email: art@michaelasuleman.com Mobile: 07800 638 959; or visit www.michaelasuleman.com

Tots Play comes to Coulsdon Have fun bonding and learning with your baby or toddler at a new tots play class in Coulsdon or Caterham.

Local mum Dorren Ding has set up a new Tots Play centre. The classes offer a combination of music, baby massage, yoga, sign language, stimulating sensory play and toys. They specialise in multi-activity

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 4Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

classes for babies and toddlers from birth to 3 years of age.

Classes will be held at Coulsdon Community Centre , Coulsdon; The Arc, Caterham and St Matthew’s Church Hall, Redhill.

Free taster sessions are available at 9.40am and 10.30am on 27 March in Coulsdon and 22 April in Redhill.

Visit www.totsplay.co.uk to book your place with Doreen or phone 0753 054 1986.

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

March-April 2014

Running Head As recommended by

Kids’ uniform going astray?

BUY OF THE DAY

Protègèm Dance School & Company

Established 2003

COME & JOIN OUR FRIENDLY CLASSES

...You need

Ballet, Tap, Street Dance, Boys Street/Break, Cheer, Musical Theatre

The easy one-snap way to label clothing!

PUSH—CLICK— SNAPPED ON! Brought to you by Say It Personally Ltd

Call: (01482) 638355

Keep tabs on their clothes...

www.snappytags.co.uk

• Classes held in Epsom & Ewell • Full school shows in professional theatres

• Ages 2+ to Adult • IDTA Dance exams

New for 2014!

Wednesday classes @ Ruxley Church As recommended by

Kids’ uniform going astray?

01737 211 109 info@protegem.co.uk www.protegem.co.uk

BUY OF THE DAY

...You need The easy one-snap way to label clothing!

PUSH—CLICK— SNAPPED ON! Brought to you by Say It Personally Ltd

Keep tabs on their clothes...

Call: (01482) 638355 www.snappytags.co.uk

01293 774051

Learn to dance, act & sing BANSTEAD, CLAYGATE, EWELL AND ESHER AREAS E: banstead.claygate@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01932 223 309 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

Little Stars (4 – 6 years) A fantastic introduction to the fun of performing arts. Each session includes dance, drama and singing and are structured to help your child build self confidence, work in a team, learn actively and realise their potential. Different material every term finishes with a fantastic costumed performance to family and friends.

New term now booking!

Free trial sessions are available at all classes.

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

Group discounts for NCT members when 3+ people join together at the same time.

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 5 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

Bromley | Croydon | South Croydon | Orpington Purley | Sanderstead | Selsdon | West Wickham

www.Families-LSB.co.uk SUA129 STS Families London Surrey Little Stars Ad 87x85.indd 1

March-April 2014 11/2/11 14:16:04

Activities, Clubs & Classes Inspectors praise Stagecoach Purley & Croydon At Stagecoach in Croydon and in Purley classes in singing, drama and dancing offer the perfect environment for all children to feel good about who they are. Since Rachel Betts took over as Principal in 2011 parents say the school has “positively thrived.”

Rachel says “We want every young person who comes to our classes to leave feeling 3 inches taller and glowing with the fun they have had whether they are coming to develop confidence or with a professional performing arts career in their sights. Parents often tell us that they notice a huge difference in their children’s academic achievement and motivation in only a term and I believe this is because they develop self-belief and are willing to take more risks in their learning.”

Independent inspectors Hardings Associates said of the classes, “Teachers enthusiasm, passion and talent inspires students to perform to an extremely high standard. This school is above and beyond value for money.”

Congratulations to Jhayaheim

Jhayheim Davis has just finished playing young Simba in The Lion King and has already landed the role of Fletcher in The Bodyguard. For opportunities like this call Rachel on 0845 265 7083 to enrol in their classes.

Your Hub for making music Friendly, knowledgeable staff Music courses for children and adults Group lessons from only £12/50mins Guitar, Bass, Drums, piano/keyboards vocal and saxophone tuition available in our purpose-built teaching studios Workshops and masterclasses Regular live music events Free Parking See our great range of instruments and sheet music

020 8642 2838 info@suttonmusiccentre.co.uk www.suttonmusiccentre.co.uk 35 St NicholasWay, Sutton, SM1 1JN Australia’s largest

multi-sport & exercise

March 6th is World Book Day World Book Day, on 6 March, sees the launch of a brand new pre-recorded TV show format of ‘The Biggest Book Show On Earth’. Available online for the whole of March the show is compered by CBBC’s Dick and Dom, and features all the World Book Day authors and illustrators including David Melling, James Patterson, Jill Murphy, Terry Deary and Robert Muchamore

How does James Patterson keep people turning the page? What does Terry Deary recommend for making facts fun? How does David Melling decide what his characters should look like? All this and more will be answered along with other fun and useful hints and tips.

Filmed at Stanley Park High School, Carshalton, the authors will answer questions submitted by children, read excerpts from their World Book Day book and talk about their inspirations.

To register to watch the show at a time to suit, visit the website at www.worldbookday.com/biggest-book-show.

Purley Pointes ballet comes to Coulsdon Classical ballet dancer Emma Northmore set up Purley Pointes to encourage youngsters to develop as individual artists.

Students will, she says, “learn to have grace and great posture, musicality, coordination, confidence, physical awareness, understanding of their anatomy, correct muscle development, motivation and discipline as well as meet new friends.”

Purley Pointes classes are taught exclusively by Professional Ballet Dancers who have worked for many years at a high level, making this school unique.

After some time in Purley, Emma is now opening a new school in Coulsdon at the Coulsdon Community Centre which is held on Fridays.

Classes start from £4.50 and while most of Emma’s clients are local, she says some come from as far away as Lincolnshire, Bognor Regis, Godalming and Salisbury Purley Pointes school of Dance 0795 872 5862 www.surreyballetmasters.co.uk

NOW IN THE

UK

program for children aged 2.5–6 years

Sports covered: Football Tennis Basketball Athletics Hockey Rugby Golf AFL Cricket T-ball

Your local Ready Steady Go Kids Classes are held at venues near you in Epsom, Ewell, Cheam, Sutton and Chessington.

• Term 3 begins 24th February 2014 • Easter Holiday Program running in April (7th-25th, call for details)

@RSGKUK

0800 690 6591

ReadySteadyGoKidsUK

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 6 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

www.rsgk.co.uk info@rsgk.co.uk

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

March-April 2014

Activities, Clubs & Classes

by Robin Dean, The Red Beehive Company Of all the insects that visit our gardens, none is more iconic and important to us than bees, and they come in a surprising range of sizes, colours and shapes. Honey and bumble bees are instantly recognisable to most of us, but how many of us could identify some of the other species of bee?

Whether we can identify them or not, one thing is common to all species, and that is they need our help. Most bees would just like a little nectar and pollen, so a lovely Easter holiday project would be to plant up a “Bee Garden”. There are a number of plants to choose from that are robust and require minimum care, beyond a drink of water now and again, and will do splendidly in a small window box, planter or large pot.

Snowdrops, Crocus, Primrose and Bluebells all make for a spectacular spring display. But remember Bluebells are protected, so don’t go digging them up from a local woodland area. Rosemary, Sage and Lavender are also highly attractive to bees, and chives have flowers to tempt them. A Catnip plant or two will keep your cat happy, as well as attracting the local bees to drop in for a nectar and pollen snack.

Now you have given them some food, why not make a bee hotel as well. Bees that live in bee hotels are solitary bees, and unlike the social bees (honey and bumble bees) don’t

make honey which means they don’t have anything to defend. This makes them really docile and perfectly safe to have around children and pets.

To construct your bee hotel:

Holiday Academies for 5-16 year olds in your area.

Quote ASFM14 for 10% off! www.activatesport.co.uk

01785 711 572

Cookery lessons and parties Epsoema & ar

07960 265825

You will need some bamboo (around 1.5cm in diameter), string or garden wire, and a small saw (to cut the bamboo).

Cut the bamboo into 15cm lengths, cutting each piece just before a node to give you a hollow tube with a natural sealed end.

Bind the bamboo pieces together with the string or garden wire, with the open ends all facing in the same direction.

Take the bundle out into the garden and find a secure place to fasten your bee hotel to. The open ends should face anywhere between east and south to get the early morning sun, with a clear flight path into the hotel.

Bake Real Bread Pop-Up Bake Clubs Eat Life Skills Parties Food Lovers Cook Recipes Surrey Good Food Lessons for Children Share Local sourcing Seasonality Lessons for Adults

learntocook.info@gmail.com www.learntocookgoodfood.com

ARTS & CRAFTS Weekly Classes for Children aged 6–14

!FREE Trial Class!

Epsom & Area - 07800 638 959

www.michaelasuleman.com

ING OLL !

R N E NOW

CONGRATULATIONS STAGECOACH IN PURLEY - New Friday venue in Purley has a brand new £3 Million Performing Arts Centre

School receives outstanding reviews from parents “We cannot thank you enough for the amazing performance we witnessed yesterday. To see them all grow as individuals culminating in the polished, professional but most importantly passionate and heart-warming performance just blew us away. They clearly loved every minute of it and it showed in every step!!!”

Venues and Times Friday’s at Riddlesdown Collegiate, Purley CR8 1EX

Saturday’s at Croydon High School, Selsdon CR2 8YB

(4-6 years) 4.15-5.45 (6-18 years) 4.30-7.30

(4-6 years) 9.30-11.00 and 11.15-12.45 (6-18 years) 10.00-1.30 and 2.30-5.30

Book before March 31st and receive a £25 discount voucher (Offer applies to our Friday Main School)

Call Stagecoach Croydon On 0845 265 7083 www.stagecoach.co.uk/croydon

www.stagecoach.co.uk

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 7 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

March-April 2014

Childcare

Choosing your childcare Childcare costs are increasing – but it’s quality that matters the most for any parent. Joanna Moorhead looks at which option might suit you best, plus what’s new in 2014

Wraparound care in schools and school nurseries...

Picture credit: © dmitrimaruta - Fotolia.com

According to a recent survey from findababysitter.com, childcare costs are soaring – up by 19% over the last year. Every parent knows that what matters most about any sort of childcare is its quality – it’s vital that your child is safe, happy and in a stimulating environment while you’re at work – but the money matters too. So what are the factors you need to take into account when you’re choosing childcare in readiness for returning to work?

A nanny might suit you if...

 You’re a reasonably high earner – nannies can be expensive, though they’re a lot more affordable if you share them with another family. As well as basic pay, there are a lot of extras to be aware of when you employ a nanny – particularly her tax, which you are required to pay, but also car Organisations offering advice and information on childcare include: insurance if she’s driving your car, and the costs of all the Childcare.co.uk is an online social networking platform for parents, outings and visits your child is childcare providers and private tutors. www.childcare.co.uk taken on.

The Family and Childcare Trust is a campaigning organisation with a  You work irregular hours. helpful bank of information for parent. www.familyandchildcaretrust.org That’s because you can pay a The Pre-school Learning Alliance is England’s largest early years nanny to work the hours you membership organisation. www.pre-school.org.uk work, whereas a nursery or child-minder will be less flexible Working Families aims to help parents and carers achieve a work-life about time balance. More at www.workingfamilies.org.uk

More info on the web

 You have two or more children, or have one baby and hope to have another very soon, because you’ll pay your nanny for her time, not for the number of children she’s looking after  You have quite rigorous ideas about, for example, the food you want your child to eat, and the schedule you want for his or her day.

You can be a lot more prescriptive as a parent with a nanny than you can with a nursery or child-minder, where your child will have to fit into a pre-existing schedule established by the institution or minder.

A child-minder might suit you if...

 You work part-time or are not a high earner (child-minders are usually the cheapest or, as many would prefer to put it, the best-value option)  You have two or more children and would like them to see a lot of each other through the day  You like the idea of another mother caring for your child – most child-minders are mothers themselves

A nursery might suit you if...

 You have an only child or this is your youngest child and you are unlikely to have more in the near future – because a nursery will give him or her plenty of opportunities to play with other children  Your child is not a small baby, and so many benefit particularly from the organised activities a nursery can offer  You like the idea of a setting where events are regulated in a way that involves a lot of carers, rather than just one mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 8 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

Increasingly schools are offering breakfast and after school clubs to help working parents who need childcare to cover extra hours at the beginning and end of the standard school day. The hours offered vary from school to school but typically cover the core hours of 8.00 am to the start of the school day and from the end of the school day up to 6.00 pm. Check with each school to see whether what they offer fits in with your requirements.

What’s happening in 2014?

Childcare is always a political hot potato – and with a General Election looming in just over a year’s time, politicians are saying more and doing more about it. Here’s what’s new on the childcare horizon:  From September this year, more two-year-olds will be offered 15 hours of free childcare each week, because the eligibility criteria are being expanded. See your local authority website for more information – they’ll be publishing full details of who’s eligible and how to find a place

 Free universal childcare for all pre-school children is being promised by Labour in their election manifesto. If they’re elected to power next time round, the Labour leadership is likely to make a dramatic announcement about the way childcare will be organised in Britain in the coming years  The new tax-free childcare scheme comes into effect from 2015.

Under that, parents will be able to claim 20% of the cost of registered childcare up to £1,200 per child per year. Both parents must be working to qualify, or a single parent must be in employment.  Last year’s report from the Department of Education that proposed making changes to the child to staff ratios in nurseries and for childminders was shelved after the Liberal Democrats objected, but the government has consulted on relaxing ratios and quality criteria for out-of-school childcare with the aim of making it easier for schools to offer provision. At the moment the issue is with the Department for Education, and an announcement is expected soon.  Under the Children and Families Bill, currently going through Parliament, Ofsted will be made ‘the sole arbiter of quality’.

This means that local authorities will not be able to impose their own quality conditions on providers who offer childcare under the existing scheme offering free places for three- and four-year-olds (provided these providers are not rated ‘inadequate’ by Ofsted).

Some parents will see this as a good thing, as it could lead to a wider choice of providers; or they might see it as a bad thing, as local authorities will be able to do less to force child carers to improve their services.

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

March-April 2014

Childcare Wraparound care on offer in selected local schools (term time only) Croydon High Junior School

Greenacre

Downsend Prep

Homefield School

S. Croydon CR2 8YB www.croydonhigh.gdst.net Nursery – 11 years 7.30 – 8.30am: The Ivy Club. £4.00 (including breakfast) The Ivy Club: Full afternoon session from end of the school to 6.00pm: £12.00; 1 hour after school: £5.00 (either the first hour, or later after a club); Additional ½ hour: £3.50; Tea: £1.40 Leatherhead KT22 8TJ www.downsend.co.uk 7 – 13 years 8.00am to start of school (free) End of school to 5.45pm (small daily charge to include tea) available on a regular or occasional basis. 3.30 – 4.00pm: The Lower School also offers a free ‘Late Class’ for children to wait for siblings in the Upper School.

Downsend Pre-Prep

Banstead SM7 3RA www.greenacre.surrey.sch.uk 7 – 18 years (before school); 3 – 18 years (after school) 7.45am – 8.15am: Greenacre Breakfast Club (free). Girls can buy a healthy breakfast from the Dining Hall which is optional and not compulsory.

3.30 5.30: Junior School – £15 per Full session (2 Hours) or Individual Session £6 per half hour; 4.15 – 5.30: Senior School – Study Hall (Free) Sutton SM1 2TE www.homefield.sutton.sch.uk 3–13 years (Nursery Second Steps – Upper 6th) 7.45 – 8.25am: Breakfast Club ‘Superstars’. £5.00 per session.

3.15 – 6.15pm. ‘Superstars After-School Club’. £6 per hour

Kingswood House

Ashtead KT21 2RE www.downsend.co.uk 2 – 6 years 8.00 – 8.30am: ‘Early Bird’ session (free) 3.30 – 4.00pm: ‘Little Lates Club’ (free); 4.00 – 5.30pm: ‘Extended Day’ (small daily charge to include tea)

Epsom KT19 8LG www.kingswoodhouse.org 3 – 13 years 7.30 – 8.30am: Breakfast Club. £5 per child per day (includes breakfast) – available from Summer term 3.30 – 5.00pm for Pre-Prep; 4.00 – 5.00pm for Prep school children (free) – available now.

Downsend Pre-Prep

Manor House School & Nursery

Epsom KT17 3AB www.downsend.co.uk 2 – 6 years 7.45 – 8.30am: ‘Early Bird’ session (free) 3.30 – 4.00pm: ‘Little Lates Club’ (free); 4.00 – 6.00pm: ‘Extended Day’ (small daily charge to include tea)

Downsend Pre-Prep Leatherhead Leatherhead KT22 8ST www.downsend.co.uk 2 – 6 years 8.00 – 8.30am: ‘Early Bird’ session (free) 3.30 – 4.00pm: ‘Little Lates Club’ (free); 4.00 – 5.30pm: ‘Extended Day’ (small daily charge to include tea) Downsend also offers the Downsend+ and Downsend Pre Prep+ holiday care schemes.

Combined with term time schooling, they offer the potential to provide 50 week child care from 8.00am to 5.30pm.

Elmhurst

S. Croydon CR2 7DW www.elmhurstschool.net 4 – 11 years From 7.45am: Breakfast Club (£3.00 per day); Early Birds Club: supervised activities without breakfast (1.00 per day) 3.10pm – 6.30pm: After School Club, First hour: £5.00; additional half hours: £3.50; Final half hour (6.00 – 6.30pm): £5.00; Snack box (if required): £1.75 The Elmhurst Holiday Club is also available to all pupils at the school, from the age of 4 to 11 (Reception to Year 6) and runs during all school holidays.

Epsom Primary & Nursery School Epsom KT19 8SD www.epsomprimaryschool.co.uk 3 – 11 years 7.30 – 8.45am: Sunrise Breakfast Club (nursery – reception); Early Explorers Breakfast Club (Years 1 – 6) 11.45 – 3.15pm: Caterpillars Daytime Club (including Lunch Club) for nursery & reception.

3.15pm – 4.30pm or 6pm: Sunset After School Club (nursery & reception); Late Explorers Afterschool Club (Years 1 – 6). For those staying after 4.30pm, a specially prepared home-cooked teatime meal is available.

Little Bookham KT23 4EN www.manorhouseschool.org 3 – 16 years 8.00 – 8.40am. Breakfast Club.

From £8.00 – Breakfast £2.00 Per evening until 6 pm: Day Boarding from Year 4 to Year 11 and Honeypot club for Early Years to J3.

From £9.00 per session, subject to year group. Tea extra.

Oakhyrst Grange

Caterham CR3 6AF www.oakhyrstgrangeschool.co.uk 4 – 11 years 8.00 – 8.25 am: ‘Early Birds’ club. £2.00 per session.

3.30 – 6.00pm. For children in Year 1 and above. £5.00 or £10.00 (with refreshments).

Priory Prep

Banstead SM7 2AJ www.prioryprep.co.uk 2 – 13 years 7.30 – 8.30am: Breakfast club. £5.00 per hour (includes breakfast); £2.50 from 8.00am.

3.00 – 6.00pm. A wide range of extra-curricular clubs are available in addition to an after school club until 6.00pm.

Boys can combine activities with the after school club. A snack tea can also be ordered.

Royal Russell

Croydon CR0 5RF www.royalrussell.co.uk 3 – 11 years 7.45 – 8.30am: Breakfast Club. Children enjoy a range of healthy breakfast choices in a supervised environment. £3.10 per day.

3.10 – 6.00pm: Nursery to Year 2 can attend Crèche (£11.50 per session including a hot supper).

Years 3 – 6 enjoy a programme of after school clubs and activities at no extra cost. A hot supper is provided.

Seaton House

Sutton SM2 5LH www.seatonhouse.sutton.sch.uk 3 – 11 years 8.00 – 8.30am: Early Birds session (free) 3.30pm – 5.30pm: After School Club for ages 3 – 5 years & 3.30pm – 6.00pm: for ages 5 – 11 years; 3.30pm – 4.30pm: Homework Club for ages 7 – 11 years. £4.60 – £5.15 per hour (depending upon number of sessions pre-bought)

Sutton High

Sutton SM1 2AX www.suttonhigh.gdst.net 3 – 11 years 7.30am to start of school: Tops and Tails. £4.35 per day (includes breakfast) End of school day – 6.30pm: Tops and Tails. From £6.00, depending on length of care required (includes tea).

Early Years Childcare at Epsom Primary School Epsom Primary and Nursery School (EPS) provides a grant maintained nursery every day, term time, for 52 children. Understanding that so many parents work, their ‘Extended School’ enables parents to leave their children with the school from 7.30am – 6pm.

Following the EYFS curriculum, Nursery and Extended School enables children to explore and investigate, firing their curiosity and interest in the world around them.

Extended School includes Sunrise Breakfast Club, a Lunch Club and Sunset After School Club.

For those staying after 4.30pm, a specially prepared home-cooked teatime meal ensures the children are always well fed and so ready for home and bedtime.

Contact them on: Tel: 01372 720608, email: tblandford@epsom.surrey.sch.uk

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March-April 2014

Behind the scenes with...

Q A

Kingswood House School

What is your name and title?

finished at Easter. This follows our new Junior Block for Years 3 – 5 which opened late last year. We are always developing our resources but never at the expense of the community atmosphere and our small class sizes.

Peter Brooks, Headmaster of Kingswood House School in Epsom. I came to KHS in 1975 so next year I’ll be celebrating 40 years.

I have been Headmaster since 1997.

Q A

Q A

What does Kingswood House offer to parents (and the children)?

What do you do for lunch?

I eat every day with the children in the Dining Room as do all the staff. We provide a hot meal every day as well as lots of choices for healthy eating.

KHS is warm, friendly and caring with a family atmosphere. It is academically challenging, successful and we are also a very close-knit community making a difference to each of the children’s lives. We also have a leading Study Centre which helps pupils on a one-to-one basis and enables us to use that expertise to maximise the learning opportunities for all our children.

Q A

When the end of term comes, how do you feel?

Q A

Describe a typical school day...and a typical non-school day.

On a school day, I arrive at 7:30am and my day consists of meeting with prospective families, current parents, congratulating pupils on their work, watching sporting fixtures, classroom observations, having a staff meeting, checking emails and mail and walking around the site.

We can guarantee that their child will never fall through the cracks. Every child has the opportunity to represent the school whether it is in sport, art, drama or music and the parents are all encouraged to come and support these activities.

On a typical non-school day I like to go to a rugby match, spend time with my family and go to the gym.

Q A

What is your biggest challenge at the moment?

Q A

What is the busiest time for you?

The biggest challenge is placing our Year 8 boys into the best senior school for them. It is a huge privilege to help steer them into the next step of their education.

The recession is also a challenge for families so we do everything we can to ensure financial constraints aren’t a stumbling block.

We have our Pre-Tests every January and then there is Common Entrance each June. I personally spend a lot of time making sure each Year 8 boy is placed in the right senior school and one which he will excel in.

Q A

Q A

How can parents get the best from your school?

What is planned for the coming months?

It is a partnership between the parents and the school and we work together to ensure their child has individual attention.

We are extremely excited about our new Pre-Prep Department and Humanities classrooms which are scheduled to be

Sad, mostly because the school isn’t the same when the children aren’t here. I’m here in the school holidays, as are a number of staff members, but the site isn’t as vibrant as it is when it is filled with children going about their day. Having said that we do run a children’s activity course called Kingswood Active throughout the school holidays.

Q A

What’s your best memory of running the school?

I am always extremely proud every year when our Year 8s go on to some of the best public schools in the country. They all came to KHS as young boys and at the age of 13 we let them go, knowing that we have prepared them fully for their senior school and for the life they will lead. My best memories are watching them develop over the years and then welcoming them back seeing the men they have become.

Next Open Mornings at Kingswood House School: Wednesday 7th May and Saturday 10th May 2014 from 9:30am to 12noon www.kingswoodhouse.org 01372 723590

Epsom Primary and Nursery School Early Years Childcare Services

Thinking of Returning to Work?

Hoping to Retrain?

Need a flexible childcare solution?

Take a look at EPS ...

• Early Years provision for rising 3s-4s between 7.30am - 6pm.

•

Held in a new purpose built building with specialist indoor and outdoor areas for under 5s.

•

Parents can claim early education funding for up to 15 hours attendance per week, the term after attendees are 3.

• Our provision offers a Lunchtime Club, a healthy snack after school and a homemade hot meal at teatime for those staying after 4.30pm.

Epsom Primary & Nursery School, including the Children’s Centre Pound Lane, Epsom, Surrey, KT19 8SD • Tel: 01372 720608 Fax: 01372 739902 email: office@epsom.surrey.sch.uk • website: www.epsomprimaryschool.co.uk From September 2014 Epsom Primary School's grant maintained nursery will offer flexible teacher led provision each day, term time, from 8.45am - 3.15pm for 52 children. Contact us to see if spaces are still available for September 2014.

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 10 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

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March-April 2014

Running Head

Open Morning: Saturday 15th March, 10am - 12noon Only boys school in the area focused entirely on 11+

To book your place call

020 8688 0661

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020 3370 5420 01372 722 994 020 8644 0975 020 8090 2938

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

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

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or book online at www.explorelearning.co.uk mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 11 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

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March-April 2014

Education

Choosing a Prep school What are they and how to choose the right one?

By Ellen Arnison Traditionally a preparatory school was where children went to ‘prepare’ for one of the major British public schools, such as Eton and Harrow, working up to them sitting the Common Entrance exam at 13.

While that picture still exists in some cases, the situation now varies widely.

Broadly, there are two kinds of prep school – one where the children leave at 11, perhaps after an 11+ exam, and one where the children sit the Common Entrance exam and leave at age 13.

In some cases youngsters attend a prep school until they reach their 11+ exam and then transfer to a local (state) grammar school. The smaller classes and more focussed attention in a prep school can improve their chances. This is particularly appealing to parents who think their child won’t get what they require from the nearby state primaries.

Traditionally boys attended prep schools up to age 13, either to sit the Common Entrance exam (part of the admissions process for academically selective secondary schools) and then to move on elsewhere or to graduate to the attached senior school almost automatically. However, girls as well as boys now attend prep school on this basis as many senior schoolds are now moving from single-sex education to co-ed.

But it isn’t just about the exams. Prep schools can provide far more than preparing children for entrance exams. Theses extras include a wide range of sports and more specialised subjects, such as Latin which the pupils may need as they move through their education.

Julie Robinson, a former prep school head and Education and Training Director at the Independent Association of Prep Schools said: “The independent sector brings high expectations and invests a huge amount of time in pastoral support and personal development for the children and most offer excellent facilities and a focus on learning.

“Parents believe their investment in fees is an investment in their children’s future.” At first glance, however, the decision about where and how to invest can seem bewildering.

There are more than 1,000 prep schools in the UK taking children to 11 and 13. Historically many of these were boarding schools but nowadays many parents choose to send their children to day-schools.

Some prep schools will be part of ‘all-through’ schools starting from

the age of three up to 18 and some will be attached to a senior school.

Some prep schools adhere to the National Curriculum but they are not obliged to, which can give them freedom to offer a broader and more varied curriculum that isn’t burdened by tests.

There isn’t always an entrance exam for prep schools; in many cases the school will just want to interview you and your child, perhaps inviting him or her to spend a ‘taster’ session in class. This also allows teaching staff to observe how your child fits in.

The decision is easier when you look to the end destination – the senior school. Work backwards: your decision may well be made easier if there is a school attached to your preferred secondary and what criteria they use to select pupils.

Ask yourself the following questions: • Does the school fit the basic requirements of you and your child in terms of gender, day and/or boarding, religious denomination, curriculum and location?

• Does it meet your educational objectives in terms of offering the exams your child will need to sit?

• Will your child be happy there? Do you get good feedback from other parents and children?

• Does the school get a good report? How are the exam results, the general atmosphere and the teaching quality?

• Do you like the ethos of school? It’s usually very clear and follows strong leadership from the Head.

• What is the teaching and staff turnover like?

• What is the curriculum?

• How big are the classes?

• What is the school’s approach to discipline and rules?

• What did the most recent inspection report say?

• What are the pastoral care facilities like?

• Does the school offer the facilities you would like to see, such as for sport, music or drama?

• Is there a wide-enough range of extra-curricular activities?

• Does the school give value for money for what you want? Be careful to take extras into account.

First Class Learning

Priory Playgroup Friday 9.30-11am term time Newborn to five years, boys and girls

Helping Children Succeed in Maths and English

MATHS and ENGLISH

 Developed in the UK for the National Curriculum  Suitable for children aged 4-16  Helps with school assessments and Exams  KS1 to 3, SATs and 11+ preparation  Individualised study programmes  Improves confidence and self-esteem  Builds lifelong study habits

Free Assessment Now Available. Call: Mitcham South Norwood Thornton Heath Wallington Bolters Lane, Banstead, Surrey SM7 2AJ office@prioryprep.co.uk, 01737 366 920 www.prioryprep.co.uk

mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 12 Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

020 8646 6791 020 8402 2150 07724 924256 020 8395 6813

First Class Learning is helping 1000s of children to realise their full potential throughout the UK.

www.firstclasslearning.co.uk www.Families-LSB.co.uk

March-April 2014

Education INDEPENDENT SCHOOL OPEN DAYS Croydon High S. Croydon CR2 020 8260 7508 Tue 29 Apr: 10 – 11.30am – whole school taster session www.croydonhigh.gdst.net Cumnor House Boys & Tree Tops Nursery (Pampisford Rd) S. Croydon CR2 020 8660 3445 Sat 1 Mar: 9.30 – 11.30 for main school & nursery www.cumnorhouse.com Cumnor House Girls & Tree Tops Nursery Purley CR8 020 8660 3445 Sat 1 Mar: 9.30 – 11.30 for main school & nursery www.cumnorhouse.com Downsend Preparatory Leatherhead KT22 01372 372311 Fri 9 May: From 9.15am with Headmaster’s Talk at 9.30am www.downsend.co.uk Downsend Pre-Preps Ashtead Epsom & Leatherhead KT17,21,22 01372 372311 Sat 10 May: 2.00pm (all three locations); Thu 13 Mar: 9.30 – 11.30am. Drop in Morning (Epsom & Leatherhead only) www.downsend.co.uk Elmhurst School for Boys S. Croydon CR2 020 8688 0661 Sat 15 Mar: 10.00 – 12.00pm www.elmhurstschool.net Ewell Castle Junior and Senior Ewell KT17 020 8393 1413 Wed 5 Mar & Tue 6 May: 9.00 – 10.30am (Nursery Early Years and Senior school) & 10.30 – 12.00pm (Junior school) www.ewellcastle.co.uk Greenacre School Banstead SM7 01737 352114 Wed 7 May: Prospective parents morning 10.45 – 12.15pm (by appointment only) www.greenacre.surrey.sch.uk Homefield Sutton SM1 020 8642 0965 Tue 11 Mar: 9.30 – 11.30am www.homefield.sutton.sch.uk Kingswood House Epsom KT19 01372 723590 Wed 7 & Sat 10 May: 9.30 – 12.00pm www.kingswoodhouse.org Laleham Lea Purley CR8 020 8660 3351 Mon 10 – Fri 14 Mar: 9.30 – 11.00am – Open week www.lalehamlea.co.uk Manor House School & Nursery Bookham nr.Leatherhead KT23 4EN 01372 457077 Wed 7 May: 9.30 am – 11.00am. Call Mrs. M. Fowell or email: admissions@manorhouseschool.org www.manorhouseschool.org Old Palace School of John Whitgift Preparatory Melville Avenue Site S. Croydon CR2 020 8688 2027 Sat 8 Mar: 1.00 – 4.00pm (book place online) www.oldpalaceofjohnwhitgift.org Old Palace School of John Whitgift Senior Old Palace Road site S. Croydon CR0 020 8688 2027 Sat 1 Mar: 2.00 – 4.00pm (book place online) www.oldpalaceofjohnwhitgift.org Priory Preparatory Banstead SM7 01737 366920 Sat 22 Mar & Sat 10 May: 10.00 – 12.00pm Open morning; Wed 30 Apr: Pop-in morning 9.00 – 11.00 www.prioryprep.co.uk Royal Russell Croydon CR0 020 8651 5884 Wed 26 Mar: 10.00 – 2.00pm www.royalrussell.co.uk Sutton High Sutton SM1 020 8225 3001 Wed 5 Mar: 10.00am with Headteacher’s talk at 10.15am (Senior school) www.suttonhigh.gdst.net Thames Christian College Battersea SW11 020 7228 3933 Thu 6 Mar & Wed 30 Apr: 11.00-1.00pm www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk

Give your daughter the very best start Greenacre School offers an excellent education for girls aged 3 to 18 years.

Our small class sizes, expert-teaching, outstanding pastoral care and extensive extra-curricular programme ensure that every girl has the opportunity to realise her full potential.

If you would like to visit the school, please telephone for an appointment or join us at one of our half termly Prospective Parents’ Mornings. Further details are available from the Admissions Registrar on 01737 352114.

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

www.greenacre.surrey.sch.uk

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SCHOOL

T H E J USNCI H OO R OSLC H O O L PAT RO N : H E R M A J E S T Y T H E Q U E E N

PATRON: HER MAJEST Y THE QUEEN

PAT RO N : H E R M A J E S T Y T H E Q U E E N

Independent Education for and GirlsBoys andAged Boys 3-18 Independent Education for Girls

Open Morning

Independent Education for Girls and Boys Aged 3-18 Nursery & Junior School Open Morning Saturday 25th September 2010, 8.30am - 12.00 noon

Open Morning

www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk

Wednesday 26th March 2014 10am - 2pm

A Complete Education

Saturday 25 September 2010, 8.30am - 12.00 noon th

A Complete Education

Thames – passion for learning, inspiration for life

• Small classes • Outstanding facilities • Inspirational teachers • Breakfast and after-school clubs

our exceptional independent school for boys and girls

Early Years funding for 3 and 4 year olds available

OPEN MORNING WEDNESDAY 30th APRIL 11.00-1.00

Scholarships and Bursaries are available Year 7 and YearCroydon, 9. DetailsCR0 on application.

Royal Russell School, at Coombe Lane, 5RF

For full list of open mornings, enrolment and fee details contact 020 7228 3933 Thames Christian College, Wye Street, London SW11 2HB

Charity No. 271907

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13 Families London-Surrey Borders

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 020 8669 5187

ON•

S I B I • S ED• O M N I B U

Opposite Coombe Lane tram stop site car park For more information call: 020 On 8657 4433 www.royalrussell.co.uk Tel: 020 8651 5884

S•

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

or visit www.royalrussell.co.uk Coombe Lane Croydon CR9 5BX

Charity No. 271907

March-April 2014

Education Elmhurst School is part of Bellevue Education Elmhurst School for Boys, near South Croydon station, is now part of the wider educational group, Bellevue Education.

Free Maths and English on 15 April at Explore

Charles South, Headmaster of Elmhurst, said: “Joining Bellevue is a major change for Elmhurst, having had individual owners since the school was established in 1869. However, the benefits of being part of a wider group of schools are obvious. I feel confident that the pool of experience and extensive resources within the Bellevue group will benefit Elmhurst’s pupils, parents and staff, long into the future.”

Elmhurst boys, like all Bellevue pupils, are encouraged to aim high and they provide them with everything they need to succeed.

Bellevue Education is committed to excellence in education. Each Bellevue school is run independently but shares the same values: they believe in broad curricula delivered in innovative ways that excite and engage children; they believe in investment — in teachers, buildings and technology; and they believe that exceptional results should be a by-product of the education that they offer, not the exclusive focus.

020 8688 0661 www.elmhurstschool.net E-mail: office@elmhurstschool.net

Homefield names John Towers as headteacher Homefield Preparatory School has named John Towers as the new headteacher. He takes over from September 2014.

The school issued a statement saying, “John is an exceptional educationalist and a strong leader with quiet relentless energy. His experience includes a very successful Headship; being “Gifted and Talented Lead Officer” for Kensington & Chelsea supporting the most mathematically gifted children in collaboration with senior schools and, most recently, as Director of Education of the ‘Reach to Teach’ Charity where he has worked almost from the start expanding and building its programme.”

John lives in Surrey with his wife, Emma and children Millie, Oscar, Imogen and Felix.

For more about Homefield Prep, see the website at www.homefield.sutton.sch.uk/ or call 020 8642 0965. Homefield’s next open day is on Tue 11 March.

Ewell Castle School has a new Principal. Peter Harris joined the School at the start of the year and replaces former Principal Andrew Tibble.

Ewell Castle is a small, friendly independent day school for 3-18 year olds (junior co-ed, senior boys and sixth form co-ed) set in beautiful grounds in Ewell village.

Peter told Families, “I’m delighted to have joined the Ewell Castle family. Ewell Castle already has a local reputation as a small friendly school. I am looking forward to leading the School through its next phase of development. We have fantastic facilities at all three School sites (Early Years, Junior School and Senior School) as well as at Old Schools Lane.”

Peter said he puts the needs of the pupil first, and has high expectations of what the School and its pupils can achieve. Peter added, “The School’s values are; honesty, trust, respect and integrity, and if everyone at Ewell Castle continues to live these values, the School and its pupils will continue to succeed.”

Formerly Vice-Principal at Bournemouth Collegiate School, Peter has experience in both the independent and state education systems, and in day and boarding schools. www.ewellcastle.co.uk/ 020 8393 1413 admissions@ewellcastle.co.uk mention Families magazine if you contact these companies 14Please Families London-Surrey Borders 020 8669 5187

On the 15th April Explore will be hosting a Community Open Day. There will be free interactive maths and literacy workshops for 5—14 year-olds across all the Explore Learning centres. Spaces are limited so call your local centre to reserve your place.

Call your local centre to book a free trial, or visit www.explorelearning.co.uk.

The school, based in Sutton, Surrey, teaches 400 boys all aged between 3 and 13 years.

Ewell Castle names new Principal

Explore Learning centres provide maths, English and 11+ tuition to 5—14 year-olds of all abilities. Explore fits easily around family life; the centres are open 7 days a week, with children able to attend up to twice a week on a drop-in basis.

Teachers’ pay to jump?

A new performance-related system of pay for teachers could see their salaries rise to £70,000 within 5 years of qualifying, according to a report by a think-tank.

‘We want to treat teachers like professionals,’ says Jonathan Simons, head of education at Policy Exchange, the report’s authors.

NASUWT fiercely opposes the scheme. The union is concerned that there is no guarantee of any pay progression.

Open-plan classrooms at Royal Russell The new indoor and outdoor open plan classrooms, set in Royal Russell school’s 110 acre site, allow children to learn with plentiful space and motivating equipment and resources.

With small classes taught by well qualified teachers, they are able to really get to know your child and establish where their strengths lie. At Royal Russell they value childhood and believe in making the most of every second of the children’s time in school. Not only do they promote academic excellence, but also include weekly swimming, dance, sport and music using their extensive on-site facilities.

Demand for Nursery and Reception places at Royal Russell School has never been higher and they are now taking registrations for 2015 and beyond. Their next Open Day is Wednesday 26 March 2014 from 10am to 2pm and they welcome you to come and see the high quality and enjoyable education and care that is available for your child.

See the website at www.royalrussell.co.uk/Juniorindex.php or call them on 020 8651 4169. www.Families-LSB.co.uk

March-April 2014

Running Head

Home�ield Preparatory School Founded in 1870

An independent day school for boys aged 3 -13

Open Morning: Tuesday 11th March 9.30am - 11.30am

Top boys’ prep school in SW London The Sunday Times | Parent Power

GCSE

87% A*–B 2013

Open Morning Come and look around Manor House School, meet the pupils and staff and discover what makes our girls happy, successful and conf ident.

Daily minibuses run to Wimbledon

“Pupils make a strong contribution to their learning through their highly motivated and enthusiastic attitudes... The quality of pupils’ achievements and learning is excellent.”

(ISI Inspection Report, 2013)

Wednesday 7 May | 9.30–11.00am Head’s welcome talk at 9.30am

An independent school for girls aged 2–16 Manor House School, Manor House Lane, Little Bookham, Surrey KT23 4EN

To register or for further information call 01372 457077 or email admissions@manorhouseschool.org www.manorhouseschool.org

Western Road • Sutton • Surrey • SM1 2TE T: 020 8642 0965 • E: registrar@homefield.sutton.sch.uk W: www.homefield.sutton.sch.uk

An Independent Day School, 3 - 18 years, Junior Co-ed, Senior Boys, Sixth Form Co-ed Scholarships and Bursaries Available at 11+/13+/16+

FORTHCOMING OPEN EVENTS Wednesday 5th March 2014 – Whole School 9:00am - 12 noon Tuesday 6th May 2014 – Whole School 9:00am - 12 noon Wednesday 18th June 2014 – Junior School 9:00am - 12 noon Wednesday 18th June 2014 – Senior School 6:00pm - 8:00pm

For further details contact the Admissions Registrar admissions@ewellcastle.co.uk Tel 020 8393 1413 Church Street, Ewell, Surrey, KT17 2AW www.ewellcastle.co.uk

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March-April 2014

Parenting

Get Up, Get Out and Get Active

the importance of children being physically active. It’s an integral part of a happy childhood and central to healthy growth and development. But I’m also a busy working mum who regularly decides to take the car on the school run to save myself a precious 10 minutes in my already jam-packed day.”

The days are grey, the ground is muddy and when you look out the window you see it’s raining again. It’s not the most inviting time of year to get your little ones outside for a run-around. But with growing concerns about levels of childhood obesity, getting out and about could be more important than ever.

Pauline spends her working day encouraging young children to dance and be physically active in her high-energy music and movement classes, but how does she manage to build exercise into her own young child’s life?

We are bombarded daily with news stories about our expanding waistlines and the implications for the nation’s health. With the second highest obesity rates in Europe, it is now thought that two thirds of all British adults are overweight.

In recent years, however, the focus has shifted to the younger generation.

Recent figures suggest that 3 in 10 children between the ages of 2 and 15 are considered overweight, while 14 – 20 percent are technically obese. Other studies put the figures even higher. Public Health England predict that a quarter of all children will be obese by 2050.

The health implications for our children are deeply concerning with increased risks of type 2 diabetes, asthma, sleep apnoea, some types of cancer and heart disease.

Obesity is a highly complex issue with a wide range of factors all playing their part, from gene mutations to food marketing; from the constant availability of calorie-dense foods to the rise in sedentary lifestyles. But we all know that getting young children into good habits of physical activity whilst they are young is an important step in encouraging a healthy lifestyle later on.

According to NHS guidelines, young children should have three hours of physical activity a day and should avoid being still for long periods, whether in front of a TV, or in a pushchair or car. They need to be walking, running, skipping, dancing, climbing, and jumping.

However, it’s not as easy as it should be. It can take a concerted effort these days to battle against the barriers to physical exercise which our more sedentary and pressurised lifestyles impose upon us. In the past, physical activity was just part of everyday life, interwoven with our normal activities and those of our children. Now, advances in technology, pressures on time, rising traffic levels, and safety concerns, all contribute to a big reduction in the amount of exercise our children do.

Pauline Llewellyn, who runs her a business teaching preschool children in Cheam whilst raising her daughter, recognises the pressures faced by today’s busy parents. “I passionately believe in

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

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

Tel: 07920 854 714 www.turtletots.com Email: charlotte.hollands@turtletots.com

“You need to be realistic and also combine different types of activities. Time in the mornings is precious, so I’ll drive to school and I don’t feel guilty about it.

Then on other days, I do make a point of walking to the shops with Mia if I need a few supplies.”

Pauline has a few more tips for the busy parent. “Make going to the park a priority each week, whatever the weather. In fact, the wetter and muddier the weather, the more children enjoy it. Then, getting changed into something warm and snuggly when you get home is half the fun. Try some form of regular organised physical activity each week, such as a dance class or a swimming lesson or a visit to a soft play centre. If it’s a regular date in the diary, you are more likely to stick to it.”

“Then there is always the garden – don’t underestimate its importance. It’s great for kicking a football, playing hopscotch, doing some gardening, collecting stones or just running around. If you don’t have a garden the local park or Sure Start centre will always have space to run and play.

Finally, I am always having impromptu discos at home. Children respond instinctively to music – they can’t help but dance. Put on some of your favourite music, dim the lights and boogie away with your little ones. They’ll love it and they won’t even realise they are exercising. And of course it’s good for you too.”

Pauline Llewelyn runs MAD Academy music and movement classes for babies, toddlers and preschool children in the Sutton area. If you would like to find out more, contact Pauline on 01372 372 942 or visit the website at www.madacademy.com For MAD Academy classes in the Croydon area contact Debbie Mason on 01689 844 848 and for classes in Ashtead, Tadworth and Effingham contact Karen Morgan on 01372 210 378.

Wanted: Business Mums & Dads Successful local business is seeking five partners to work part time from home without compromising family commitments If you have a Managerial, Sales, Marketing, Recruitment or Self-Employed background, and you wish to develop a more balanced lifestyle around your family’s needs, please call:

babylab@bbk.ac.uk www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk

Katie 01737 455017 or 07909 681884

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March-April 2014

Parenting

Parent-Toddler groups What better way to get an introduction to a school nursery, and at the same time meet other local mums, than by dropping in on the parent and toddler groups that many of the local independent schools now host during term-time.

Picture credit: © Flikr- Steve & Jemma Copley

Priory Prep

Banstead, SM7 2AJ www.prioryprep.co.uk Priory Playgroup Fridays, 9.30 - 11.00am Run by ISI and Ofsted ‘outstanding’ rated Nursery staff, the playgroup is an informal drop-in session for parents and carers with under fives (boys and girls). Home made cakes and refreshments are served. £2.00 per child (includes refreshments).

Seaton House School

Sutton High School

SM1 2AX www.suttonhigh.gdst.net Toddler Group Thursdays, 9.30 - 11.00am Sessions take place in the special ‘Tops and Tails’ area at 55 Cheam Road, Sutton, Surrey SM1 2AX. For boys and girls up to the age of 3. £3 per session (includes use of the Toddler Group facilities / refreshments for children and carers).

Sutton, SM2 5LH www.seatonhouse.sutton.sch.uk Teddy Tots Time Wednesdays, 1.45pm – 3.00pm Sessions for Toddlers to 3 years. £1.50 per family

Chinthurst School

Tadworth, KT20 5QZ www.chinthurstschool.co.uk Parent & Toddler Group Thursdays, 10.00 - 11.30am Run by mums for mums, the group is a friendly and informal coffee morning with added extras. £2 per family (includes an organic drink and a snack for the little ones and coffee and biscuits for the mums).

Croydon High School

Croydon, CR2 8YB www.croydonhigh.gdst.net Little Ivy’s Stay & Play Thursdays, 10.00 - 11.30am For babies - 4 year olds. £3 per session for two or more together (includes refreshments for adults and children).

Downsend Pre-Prep Ashtead

KT21 2RE www.downsend.co.uk Tots in Tune Tuesdays, 9.45 - 11.15am £4.00 per family (includes refreshments).

Downsend Pre-Prep Epsom

KT17 3AB www.downsend.co.uk Thursdays, 1.45 – 3.15pm Sessions are held in the nursery classroom where babies and toddlers can engage with an array of stimulating resources; the small ball pool being a favourite. £2.00 per family (includes refreshments).

17 Families London-Surrey Borders

Downsend Pre-Prep Leatherhead

KT22 8ST www.downsend.co.uk Movers and Shakers Tuesdays & Thursdays, 1.45 3.15pm A twice weekly toddler group.

Sessions always include a music and dance session with refreshments for parents and toddlers and costs just £2.00.

Greenacre School

Banstead, SM7 3RA www.greenacre.surrey.sch.uk Sing-a-Long at Greenacre School Mondays, 10.00-11.10am For babies to 3 year olds. £5.00 per session.

Kingswood House School

Epsom, KT19 8LG www.kingswoodhouse.org Kingswood Kids!

Tuesdays, 10.15 - 12.00pm For babies to pre-schoolers. £2.00 per session. More available from marketing@ kingswoodhouse.org

Manor House School & Nursery

Little Bookham KT23 4EN www.manorhouseschool.org Manor House Toddler Group for Boys and Girls Wednesdays, 1.30 – 3.15pm Held in the purpose-built nursery area of the school, all are welcome parents, grandparents and guardians - and booking is not essential. Drop in to enjoy a themed activity, fun and games in secure classrooms with outdoor play areas. £2.00 fee per group to cover refreshments.

020 8669 5187

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March-April 2014

What’s On

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline...

Visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on for an updated list of local events

WHAT’S ON AT THE THEATRE Charles Cryer Studio Theatre

39 High Street, Carshalton SM5 3BB 020 8770 6990 www.suttontheatres.co.uk Fri 4 & Sat 5 Apr Fri 7.30pm Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm

The Harlequin Theatre & Cinema

Myths, Legends And Fairytales

The Christopher Singers are joined by the Younger Generation and children from Holy Trinity Church of England School in Wallington for an evening of fun and entertainment.

Warwick Quadrant, Redhill RH1 1NN 01737 276500 www.harlequintheatre.co.uk Sat 22 Mar 1.00pm & 3.30pm

Postman Pat

The Churchill Theatre Bromley High Street, Bromley BR1 1HA 0844 871 7620 (bkg fee) www.atgtickets.com/shows Thu 20 Mar 7.30pm

Russian State Ballet of Siberia – Giselle Fri 21 Mar 7.30pm

Russian State Ballet of Siberia – Sleeping Beauty Sat 22 Mar 2.30pm & 7.30pm

Russian State Ballet of Siberia – Swan Lake Wed 26 – Fri 29 Mar 11.00am & 2.00pm

Private Peaceful

Private Peaceful relives the life of Private Tommo Peaceful, a young First World War soldier awaiting the firing squad at dawn.

Most suitable for ages 8+ Fri 2 – Sun 4 May (various times)

The Gruffalo

Ballet Theatre UK’s dramatic re-telling of Hans Christian Andersen’s all-time favourite story of The Little Mermaid, who falls in love with a human Prince and gives up everything to win his love.

The Colour House Children’s Theatre

Merton Abbey Mills, Watermill Way, London SW19 2RD 020 8542 5511 (information) 020 8542 5511 (bookings) www.colourhousetheatre. co.uk Sat 8 Feb – Sun 13 Apr (Sat & Sun only) 2.00pm & 4.00pm

Red Riding Hood

Little Red Riding Hood is off to look after her poor old Gran who’s sick. Lucky for her she has good friends in the wood because Wolfit-down, the hungriest wolf in the world wants to eat her up. Will she be OK? Of course she will. A great musical show with lots of action and excitement in this 1 hour extravaganza. A must see for all families.

Sat 26 – Sun 29 Jun (Sat & Sun only) 2.00pm & 4.00pm

Beauty and the Beast

Poor Prince David has been turned into a beast by an evil witch. Will Beauty be kind and fall in love with him to break the spell?

Epsom Playhouse

Ashley Avenue, Epsom, Surrey KT18 5AL 01372 742 555 www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk Fri 4 Apr 7.30pm

The Little Mermaid

Ballet Theatre UK’s dramatic re-telling of Hans Christian Andersen’s all-time favourite story of The Little Mermaid, who falls in love with a human Prince and gives up everything to win his love.

Mon 14 Apr 11.00am & 2.30pm

The Chris and Pui Roadshow

CBeebies’ favourite double act is bringing songs, rhymes, comedy sketches and lots of joining in for all the family.

Sat 3 May 11.00am & 2.30pm

The Sooty Show

Izzy Wizzy Let’s get busy – Its The Sooty Show, direct from C-ITV

See Pat and his friends live on stage in an exciting new story – “It’s Showtime.”

Sat 3 May 2.30pm

The Jungle Book

Adapted from the original Rudyard Kipling story, this production dramatises the journey to maturity of Mowgli the man cub.

New Wimbledon Theatre

The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1QG 0870 060 6646 www. newwimbledontheatre.co.uk Thu 6 – Sat 8 Mar (various times)

Dinosaur Zoo

Direct from Australia, Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo brings these awesome prehistoric creatures to the stage as you’ve never seen them before, up close and personal.

Mon 7 Apr 11.00am & 2.30pm

The Sooty Show

Izzy Wizzy Lets get busy – Its The Sooty Show.

Direct from Citv

Polka Theatre

Fairfield Halls

Saturday 15 – Sunday 16 March

11.00 – 17.00, last entry 16.00

KIDS GO FREE

ltmuseum.co.uk

Bustastic family fun!

Heritage bus rides and miniature railway Storytelling and make-and-take sessions Live replica of Hancock’s 1833 steam bus

Park Lane, Croydon, CR9 1DG 020 8688 9291 www.fairfield.co.uk Tue 4 – Sat 8 Mar (various times)

Horrible Histories – Barmy Britain

We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead. So it’s time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories live on stage with a brand new show BARMY BRITAIN with all new amazing 3D effects. It’s the horrible history of Britain with the nasty bits left in.

Sun 9 Mar 3.30pm

Arthur Davison Presents...

Adventure Concerts: Toy Stories

Display of guest vehicles

Enter the world of toys, games, puzzles and puppets.

Mon 7 – Wed 9 Apr (various times)

Curator-led tours

Alice in Wonderland

London Transport Museum Depot

Wed 16 Apr 11.00am & 2.00pm

2 Museum Way, 118–120 Gunnersbury Lane, London W3 9BQ Check before you travel at tfl.gov.uk

The Jungle Book

Adapted from the original Rudyard Kipling story, this production dramatises the journey to maturity of Mowgli the man cub.

Fri 18 Apr 2.30pm & 7.45pm

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240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com Wed 12 – Sat 22 Mar (various times)

Momo

In a town not so far away, a friendly orphaned girl called Momo has a mysterious enemy to fight. For ages 7+ Sat 22 Mar 11.00am

Momo

All ages performance (for children under the age of 7) Fri 4 Apr – Sat 24 May (various times)

Minotaur

Myth meets modern day in a boy’s heroic quest to save his dad. For ages 8 – 14 years.

Secombe Theatre

42 Cheam Road, Sutton, SM1 2SS 020 8770 6990 www.suttontheatres.co.uk Wed 12 – Sat 15 Mar Eve 7.45pm Sat Mat 2.30pm

The Addams Family

The Addams family delightfully, devilishly comes to life in this production by the Mayhem Musical Theatre Company Thu 10 – Sun 13 Apr (various times)

Sleeping Beauty

In a tale of exploding cakes and magic wands, full of romance and adventure, Sleeping Beauty transports you to the wonderful world of Pantoland.

March-April 2014

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline...

Visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on for an updated list of local events

What’s On

EASTER EGG HUNTS AND TRAILS

Looking to find the Easter bunny? – then look no further. We have hunted out some local, and some a bit further afield, egg hunts for you and the kids to go to for a breath of fresh air, a bit of exercise and some chocolate...mmm. Visit our website for updates: www.families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on.

We try our best to make sure the information listed is correct, but please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline.....

LOCAL TRAILS THE CHILDREN’S TRUST Tadworth Court, Tadworth KT20 5RU 01737 364303

TRAILS IN SUSSEX TULLEYS FARM Turners Hill, Nr. Crawley, West Sussex RH10 4PE 01342 718472 www.tulleysfarm.com

Picture credit: © Flikr-somewhereintheworldtoday

www.thechildrenstrust.org.uk/easterfair

Sun 6 – Mon 21 Apr 10.00 – 5.00pm

Sat 19 Apr 12.00 – 4.00pm

Easter Egg-stravaganza Annual Easter Egg Hunt with lots of other activities available.

Easter Fair Peppa Pig is coming to spend the day at The Children’s Trust. She will be helping the Easter bunny and squirrel on the Easter egg hunt. There is plenty for everyone to do throughout the afternoon including an Easter egg hunt, arts and crafts, childrens go-karting, a funfair, and a shopping marquee.

TRAILS IN KENT CHARTWELL Mapleton Road, Westerham, Kent, TN16 1PS 01732 868381 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell

Fri 18 – Mon 21 Apr 11.00 – 4.00pm

MORDEN HALL PARK Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 (enquiries)

Easter trail Come and explore the natural playground of the Churchill family on the Chartwell Easter egg trail. Collect your Cadbury chocolate Egghead and continue the fun with games for all the family. £2.00 per trail.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park

Fri 18 – Mon 21 Apr 11.00 – 4.00pm Cadbury Easter Trail Join in an Easter egg-stravaganza, sponsored by Cadbury. Follow the trail through the park to discover clues before claiming your Cadbury’s chocolate egghead. Activities and games included for all the family. £4.00 per trail

HEVER CASTLE Hever, Nr Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG 01732 865224 www.hevercastle.co.uk

Sat 5 – Mon 21 Apr Gardens open 10.30am; Castle opens 12.00 – 5.00pm

SUTTON ECOLOGY CENTRE The Old Rectory, Festival Walk, Carshalton SM5 3NY 020 8770 5822

Easter Egg Trail Family entertainment throughout the Easter holidays with a host of activities including an Easter hunt, craft workshop and Easter bonnet competition.

biodiversity@sutton.gov.uk

Mon 14 Apr 10.00 –2.00pm Easter Bunny Tails.

Follow the clues to find the eggs and for lots of Easter fun in this Carshalton nature oasis. £3.00 per child. Drop in any time no need to book (adults must accompany all children).

WHITEHALL, CHEAM 1, Malden Road, Cheam SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236

whitehallmuseum@sutton.gov.uk www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk

Sat 5 – Sun 12 Apr Easter Trail Search Whitehall from top to bottom as part of a special house trail to claim a prize. Free drop-in activity.

Sat 19 Apr 12.00 – 1.00pm & 3.00 – 4.00pm Egg-tastic Drop-in Garden Hunt Follow the trail around Whitehall’s walled garden to find clues and the hidden edible eggs. Just drop-in at the times listed.

TRAILS IN SURREY BIRDWORLD Holt Pound, Farnham GU10 4LD 01420 22140 / 22992

BOCKETTS FARM PARK, LEATHERHEAD Young Street, Leatherhead KT22 9BS 01372 363764

DENBIES WINE ESTATE London Road, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6AA 01306 876616 www.denbies.co.uk

www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

Mon 7 – Mon 21 Apr 11.00 – 3.00pm

Sat 5 – Mon 21 Apr

Easter trail and activities Daily craft activities from £1.50 per activity; Easter Trail, £2.00 per child.

Easter Eggstravaganza There’s Eggstra fun to be had at Bocketts Farm this Spring . In addition to all the other activities they have on offer there will be an egg hunt trail at the end of which there is a yummy chocolate treat for each child.

BOX HILL, KT20 7LB Fri, Sun, Mon 18, 20, 21 Apr & Sat 19 Apr £2.50 per trail. No need to book.

CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/surreyevents

GATTON PARK Rocky Lane, Reigate RH2 0TW 01737 649 066 www.gattonpark.com Mon 21 Apr 1.00 – 5.00pm Open Day and Easter Egg Hunt Park and gardens open all afternoon, bird hide open, free guided tours and free activities for children. Explore the gardens looking for clues to find the eggs. Adults: £4.00; children: 50p to join egg hunt, otherwise free.

POLESDEN LACEY Great Bookham, Nr Dorking RH5 6BD 01372 452048

IGHTHAM MOTE Mote Road, Ivy Hatch, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0NT 01732 810378 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ightham-mote

Sat 19 Apr 11.00 – 3.30pm Cadbury’s Easter Egg Trail Follow a trail around the garden to claim a Cadbury’s Egghead.

TRAILS IN GREATER LONDON BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM Threadneedle Street, London EC2R 020 7601 5545 www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum

Mon 7 – Fri 11 & Mon 14 – Thu 17 Apr 10.00 – 4.30pm EGGonomics Follow the trail to find the chicks and egg hidden in the Museum. You can then create and decorate your own Easter basket to take home. There is a chocolate egg for every child and prizes to be won.

KEW GARDENS Richmond, TW9 3AB 020 8332 5655

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesdenlacey

www.kew.org/events

www.birdworld.co.uk

Fri 18 – Sat 19 Apr 10.30 – 4.00pm

Sun 20 Apr

Wed 16 Apr

Fri 18 – Mon 21 Apr 11.00–4.00pm

Cadbury Easter Egg Trail Explore the Garden and join in with the National Trust and Cadbury Easter Egg Trail. Plus lots of extra special activities for children. £2.50 per child + normal admission charges.

Cadbury Easter Egg Trail – Easter Weekend Family Fun Easter Egg trail, sponsored by Cadbury’s and you could win a prize of a Cadbury chocolate Egghead. Normal admission, plus £2.50 per child.

Easter Egg Hunt Crack the clues to claim your egg plus the opportunity to win some other great prizes. Join in with some seasonal arts and crafts

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Join the traditional Easter Egg Hunt. You will collect tokens from around the Gardens to pick up your prize – a delicious chocolate treat from the Easter Bunny. Visit the website for details of other Easter holiday activities.

March-April 2014

What’s On

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline...

Visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk/what-s-on for an updated list of local events

DIARY DATES FOR SPRING

March Sun 2 Mar 11.00 – 3.00pm Get out in your park Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 (enquiries) mordenhallparkevents@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park There’s lots of fun to be had in Morden Hall Park…run around in the rain, collect raindrops, watch out for your shadow or challenge your friends and family to orienteering. Free event.

Fri 7 Mar 4.00pm Bach to Baby Concert at Holy Trinity Church, 234 Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB www.bachtobaby.com/wimbledon Sat 8 Mar 9.00 – 5.00pm Herald of Spring Goes Back to its Roots Bourne Hall, Spring Street, Ewell KT17 1UF 020 8393 9571 A free one day event focused on the community’s relationship with the flowers of spring. Enjoy a floral extravaganza and discover the open spaces and parks of the Borough. Learn about the art of the bee-keeper. See displays by local horticultural and flower clubs. Meet the friends of your local parks and find out how you can get involved. Also, visit the Antiques and Vintage Fair (£2.00 admission). Contact Bourne Hall for more details.

Sat 8 Mar 10.30 – 10.45am (approx) Little Folk with Albo – Children’s Concert Colour House Theatre, Merton Abbey Mills, Watermill Way, London SW19 2RD 020 8542 5511 www. littlefolkwithalbo.com An ideal first concert experience. Audience participation is actively encouraged and song sheets are provided. This is a great introduction to non-processed music, just Albo and his guitar. Recommended for children from babies to 6 years. All Tickets £4.00. Book online or by calling.

Sat 8 Mar 11.00 – 3.00pm Spring Craft Fair SCOLA (Sutton College of Learning), St. Nicholas Way, Sutton Surrey SM1 1EA www.scola.ac.uk Various stalls including crafts and gifts, jewellery and food stalls. Children will be able to make keepsakes for Mother’s Day between 12.00 and 2.00pm

Sat 8 Mar 9.00 – 1.00pm Wallington Farmers’ Market Old Town Hall and Library Gardens, Wallington, SM6 0NB www.wallingtonfarmersmarket.org.uk Tue 11 Mar 5.45 – 7.00pm* Frogs by Torchlight. Sutton Ecology Centre, The Old Rectory, Festival Walk, Carshalton SM5 3NY 020 8770 5822 biodiversity@ sutton.gov.uk Come and discover the new dipping pond, whilst looking for mating frogs and toads by torchlight. £4.00 per person. Booking essential. *Note late start time.

Sat 15 Mar 2.00 – 4.00pm An introduction to Ashtead Common – City of London Commons Event Meet at the Ashtead Estate Office. 01372 279083 city.commons@cityoflondon.gov.uk Walk through the habitats that make up this National Nature Reserve. Where to have a family picnic, ride your bike or see wildlife up close? This walk is aimed at families new to the area, or people yet to be familiar with the Common. Booking essential.

Sat 15 Mar 10.00 – 12.00pm Saturdads Byron Children’s Centre, St David’s, Coulsdon CR5 2XE 020 8763 6285 A session for male carers and grandparents.

Mid-Hants Railway 'Watercress Line' The Railway Station, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9JG 020 8699 1872 www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk Sat 12 – Mon 21 April Day Out With Thomas Thomas & Friends return to the Watercress Line for more family fun.

Shake hands with the Fat Controller, meet Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends, take part in Thomas themed activities and ride the big steams trains all day.

• Free Thomas sticker and certificate for every child.

• Free activities, bouncy slide, children’ entertainer and face painting.

• Free rides with Thomas, Toad and Diesel. It’s a great value family day out, not to be missed.

Make their day a Day Out With Thomas and book your tickets online to get your free gift or simply pay on the day. Fares include all day travel on the trains and all free entertainment.

Advance fares: Adult £18; Child (aged 2-16 years) £12; Child under 2 free; Family (2 Adults and 2 Children – 1 child effectively travels for free) £54. Booking fees and postage extra, but capped at £5.

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Sat 15 Mar 1.00 – 2.30pm Victorian School Days. The happiest days of their lives? Bourne Hall Museum Kids Club, Spring Street, Ewell, Surrey, KT17 1UF 020 8394 1734 dbrooks@epsom-ewell.gov.uk Disciple was often strict and children were beaten for even minor wrongdoings, with a cane, on the hand or bottom. A teacher could also punish a child by making them stand in the corner wearing a ‘dunce’s cap’. Another, very boring, punishment was writing ‘lines’. This meant writing out the same sentence (such as ‘Schooldays are the happiest days of my life’ 100 times or more. Find out who went to school. Not everyone did. What was it really like and what did they learn.

For ages 7 to 12. For more details contact David Brooks. £4.00 per child Sat 15 Mar 9.30 – 1.30pm North Cheam Farmers’ Market North Cheam Crossroads, outside the Lavender Corner Post Office (KT4 8SG) www.ecolocalmarkets.org.uk/north-cheam Sat 22 Mar 12.00 – 4.00pm Table Top Sale Burgh Heath War Memorial Hall, Brighton Road (A217) , Burgh Heath Surrey KT20 6BU Organised by Burgh Heath Residents’ Association ,there will be a wide variety of goods for sale including a home made cake stall.

Refreshments will be available through out the day. Adults: £1.00; children: free Sat 22 Mar 11.00 – 4.00pm Face Painting – Animal Magic Whitehall, 1, Malden Road, Cheam SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 whitehallmuseum@sutton.gov.uk www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk Inspired by Whitehall’s garden, a talented face painter will be on hand to transform children of all ages into a range of creatures. This drop-in session will take place in the garden, weather permitting, otherwise indoors. £2.00 per child – tickets available at the desk.

Thu 27 Mar 9.40am or 10.30am Tots Play – Free taster session Coulsdon Community Centre, Coulsdon 07530 541 986 www.totsplay.co.uk Visit the website or phone Doreen to book your place.

Sat 29 Mar 10.00 – 4.00pm Sutton Local Produce and Craft Market Town Square, Sutton High Street, Sutton SM1 1DU www.ecolocalmarkets.org.uk/sutton Sun 30 Mar 10.00 – 4.30pm Mothering Sunday at Claremont Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher, Surrey, KT10 9JG 01372 467806 claremont@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/surreyevents Mothers get in free to the Garden when accompanied by their children.

Sun 30 Mar 10.30 – 6.00pm (last entry 4.30pm) Free entry for Mums on Mothers Day Painshill Gardens, Painshill Park, Portsmouth Road, Cobham, Surrey KT11 1JE 01932 868113 info@painshill.co.uk www.painshill.co.uk Free to mothers when accompanied by their children (normal entry price applies to all other visitors).

April Sat 5 – Thu 17 Apr 11.00 – 3.30pm Easter Holiday Activities – Around the world with Mrs. Greville Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, Nr Dorking RH5 6BD 01372 452048 polesdenlacey@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/surreyevents

Bocketts Farm Young Street, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 9BS 01372 363764 www.bockettsfarm.co.uk Sat 5 – Mon 21 April 10.00 – 5.30pm Easter Eggstravaganza There’s Eggstra fun to be had at Bocketts Farm this Spring with plenty to see and do. Our lambing season will be in full swing, with over 300 newborn lambs due in our Big Animal Barn and lambing marquee. Daily ‘Meet the Shepherd’ sessions will be running, and you may even get to see a lamb being born. Plus there will be plenty of other animals to meet including llamas, goats, cows and a litter of piglets. What’s more, daily animal handling sessions will give children a chance to get close to the cute chicks and cuddly rabbits. Don’t forget to complete the egg hunt trail too, with a yummy chocolate treat for each child. The huge warm indoor play barns with giant astroslide and trampolines, along with the young drivers tractor area and Small Animal Village means there is plenty to do indoors, whatever the weather. Outdoors, children can enjoy sandpits, slides, play trails and 2 jumping pillows. Plus, enjoy our pedal go-kart track, NEW for 2014. With a full farm programme of events including pony rides, tractor rides, goat milking, pig racing, gold panning and more, you can be sure of a great day out for the whole family.

See website for admission prices.

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March-April 2014

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What’s On

DIARY DATES FOR SPRING Guess some of the exotic locations Mrs Greville visited on her travels round the world. £1.00 for activities, in addition to normal admission charges.

Sat 5 Apr 10.00 – 1.00pm Wimbledon & District NCT – First Aid Course at Gooseberry Bush Cafe, 115 Kingston Road, Wimbledon, SW19 1LT 0844 243 6326 wandwnct+firstaid@gmail.com Expecting your first baby, or already have a child/ children? Taking a first aid course is a great way to gain confidence in how to handle incidents that may occur in or out of the home. The course includes the management of infant resuscitation, meningitis, febrile convulsions and choking and all attendees will be issued with a manual.

Tea and coffee are provided. Open to members / non-members (max of 12 people on course). £55 pp / £100 per couple. To register please email Krissie.

Sat 5 & Sun 6 Apr 11.00 – 3.00pm Welly Weekend Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 (enquiries) mordenhallparkevents@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park Rain or shine, wellies come in useful.

Join us for a weekend of activities inspired by our wellies, from planting your own seeds to exploring the park for wildlife. Free event.

Mon 7 Apr 9.30 – 11.00am Whitehall Whippets – Ring a Ring o’ Roses Whitehall, 1, Malden Road, Cheam SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 whitehallmuseum@sutton.gov.uk www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk Session devised particularly for under 3s with a range of activities, crafts and sensory experiences focusing on a nursery rhyme. Free activity.

Mon 7 – Fri 11 Apr 11.00 – 1.00pm Easter holiday Children’s Craft Activities Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher, Surrey, KT10 9JG 01372 467806 claremont@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/surreyevents Normal admission charges + £1.50 for activities Tue 8 & Wed 9 Apr Kidsrome Mobile Farm Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6AA 01306 876616 www.denbies.co.uk Includes a selection from sheep and lambs, goats and kids, calves, chickens, ducks, turkeys, rabbits, guinea pigs, dogs and a farmer. £3.00 per child.

Tue 8 Apr 11.00 – 3.00pm Survival Skills Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 (enquiries) mordenhallparkevents@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park Test your survival skills with the Ranger and learn how to build dens, cook on a campfire and track wild animals. £4.00 pp.

Tue 8 Apr 11.00 – 2.00pm Go Wild! – Sutton Ecology Centre activity Carew Manor Wetland Visit the reserve (park behind the Alms Houses in Beddington Park and walk across the field to the bridge) for pond dipping and a chance to hire a Nature Discovery Backpack to explore the nature reserve and the park with all your senses. £10.00 returnable deposit required for backpack hire. £3.00 per child. Drop in any time – no need to book (adults must accompany all children).

Wed 9 Apr 11.00 – 12.30pm or 2.00pm – 3.30pm Gladiator School Bourne Hall Museum Kids Club, Spring Street, Ewell, Surrey, KT17 1UF 020 8394 1734 dbrooks@epsom-ewell.gov.uk Enlist into our Gladiator School and discover the role of a gladiator within Roman society.

Learn about the different types of fighting and weaponry. See the resident Gladiators demonstrate their skills. Will it be thumbs up or thumbs down? Are you brave enough to survive the arena?

Come and learn how to be a gladiator and put your new-found skills into practice. Will you be a Murmillo, Secutor or perhaps a Provocator? For more details contact David Brooks. For ages 7 to 12. £5.00 per child.

Wed 9 Apr 10.00 – 12.00pm Super Seeds Carshalton Library, Westcroft Leisure Centre, Carshalton SM5 2TG 020 8647 1151 Come along to the free Beanstalk Project session to learn all about the seeds that become your favourite vegetables. Create a mini vegetable garden to take home. Places are limited and entry is by ticket only: collect your free ticket from Westcroft Library. Suitable for children aged 4+. who must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.

Wed 9 Apr 2.00 – 4.00pm Crafty Cards – Easter Chicks and Bunnies Whitehall, 1, Malden Road, Cheam SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 Use a wide range of craft materials to create an Easter inspired greeting card. All materials provided, Tickets £3.00 bookable from Whitehall.

Thu 10 Apr 11.00am and 2.00pm Tropical Creepy Crawly Road Show Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6AA 01306 876616 www.denbies.co.uk See, handle and learn about creatures from around the globe. £6.50 per child.

Thu 10 Apr 11.00 – 3.00pm Active Amphibians Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 (enquiries) mordenhallparkevents@nationaltrust.org. uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hallpark Discover more about frogs, toads and newts with hands on activities and crafts. £2.00 per person or £5.00 per family.

Thu 10 Apr 10.00 – 12.00pm Super Seeds Sutton Library, Children’s Library, SM1 1EA 020 8770 4740 Come along to the free Beanstalk Project session to learn all about the seeds that become your favourite vegetables. Create a mini vegetable garden to take home. Places are limited and entry is by ticket only: collect your free ticket from Sutton Library main customer service desk. Suitable for children aged 4+. who must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.

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Sat 12 Apr 10.30 – 10.45am (approx) Little Folk with Albo – Children’s Concert Colour House Theatre, Merton Abbey Mills, Watermill Way, London SW19 2RD 020 8542 5511 www.littlefolkwithalbo.com See 8 Mar entry for more details.

Sat 12 Apr 10.00 – 12.00pm Saturdads Byron Children’s Centre, St David’s, Coulsdon CR5 2XE 020 8763 6285 A session for male carers and grandparents.

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Sat 12 Apr 9.00 – 1.00pm Wallington Farmers’ Market Old Town Hall and Library Gardens, Wallington, SM6 0NB www.wallingtonfarmersmarket.org.uk Sat 12 Apr 9.30 – 4.00pm Friends of Whitehall Easter Fair Parochial Rooms, Cheam Village Stalls galore at this Friends annual event across the road from Whitehall. Admission is free.

Refreshments will be available.

Sun 13 – Thu 17 Apr 11.00 – 3.00pm Lego Exhibition Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6AA 01306 876616 www.denbies.co.uk

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March-April 2014

What’s On

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DIARY DATES FOR SPRING Mon 14 – Thu 17 Apr Lego Build Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6AA 01306 876616 www.denbies.co.uk Daily activity. £2.00 per child.

Mon 14 Apr Birds of Prey Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6AA 01306 876616 www. denbies.co.uk With a flying display at 12.00pm (weather permitting). Free admission Tue 15 Apr 11.00 – 12.30pm and 2.00 – 3.30pm Henry’s Horrid History Bourne Hall Museum Kids Club, Spring Street, Ewell, Surrey, KT17 1UF 020 8394 1734 dbrooks@epsom-ewell.gov.uk An Audience with King Henry VIII: Bow as you enter the King’s chamber and listen respectfully as he regales you with tales of his life, loves and court. Hear of his heroic exploits on the tournament field. Be careful not to displease him and be sent to The Tower. For more details contact David Brooks. For ages 7 to 12. £5.00 per child.

Tue 15 Apr 11.00am & 2.00pm Easter Bunny Disco Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6AA 01306 876616 www.denbies.co.uk ‘Bop until you Hop’ – fancy dress welcome. £7.25 per child (price includes soft drink and biscuit) Tue 15 Apr 10.00 – 12.30pm EcoExperts Club – Become a Predator Expert Sutton Ecology Centre, The Old Rectory, Festival Walk, Carshalton SM5 3NY 020 8770 5822 biodiversity@sutton.gov.uk Survive the

down the River Wandle. Craft activities included. £1.50 per duck.

Mon 21 Apr 12.00 – 3.00pm Horse & Carriage rides Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6AA 01306 876616 www.denbies.co.uk Advance reservations strongly recommended. From £7.50 per person

May

predator-prey game, look up-close at some predators and invent your own predator. £5.00 per child, please bring a snack for break-time (adults must accompany all children). Suitable for ages 7 – 12 years. Booking essential.

Wed 16 Apr 11.00am and 2.00pm Hobgoblin Children’s Theatre ‘The Frog Prince’ Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6AA 01306 876616 www.denbies.co.uk £7.25 per child

In partnership with

Home of Thomas & FriendsTM toys

Thu 17 Apr 2.00 – 4.00pm Egg Decorating Whitehall, 1, Malden Road, Cheam SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 whitehallmuseum@sutton.gov.uk www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk Bring yourself and your imagination for this creative event. All materials provided.

Tickets £2.00 per child bookable at Whitehall.

Thu 17 Apr 11.00am and 2.00pm Tropical Creepy Crawly Road Show Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6AA 01306 876616 www.denbies.co.uk See, handle and learn about creatures from around the globe. £6.50 per child Thu 17 Apr 11.00 – 3.00pm Quacky Races Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 (enquiries) mordenhallparkevents@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park Cheer on your rubber duck in a race

Sat 3 – Mon 5 May 10.00 – 6.00pm May Fayre Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 (enquiries) mordenhallparkevents@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park Family Country Show with all day entertainment Sun 4 & Mon 5 May The Blindley Heath Country Show Osney Lodge Farm, Byers Lane, Surrey RH9 8JH 01342 892216 www.blindleyheathcountryshow.co.uk Mon 5 May 9.30 – 11.00am Whitehall Whippets Whitehall, 1, Malden Road, Cheam SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 whitehallmuseum@sutton.gov.uk www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk Session devised particularly for under 3s with a range of activities, crafts and sensory experiences focusing on a nursery rhyme. Free activity.

Sat 10 May 9.00 – 1.00pm Wallington Farmers’ Market Old Town Hall and Library Gardens, Wallington, SM6 0NB www.wallingtonfarmersmarket.org.uk

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Family Fun at London Transport Museum

Join Thomas & FriendsTM at a heritage Railway near you.

Experience a ride on a real steam engine and take part in Thomas-themed activities.

MID HANTS RAILWAY ‘WATERCRESS LINE’ Alresford, Hampshire SO24 9JG

12TH - 21ST 2014

www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk Day Out With ThomasTM Thomas the Tank EngineTM. Based on The Railway Series by The Reverend W. Awdry. © 2014 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends, Thomas & Friends and Day Out With Thomas are trademarks of Gullane (Thomas) Limited. © 2014 HIT Entertainment Limited.

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2 Museum Way, 118-120 Gunnersbury Lane, W3 9BQ 020 7379 6433 www.ltmuseum.co.uk Sat 15 & Sun 16 Mar 11.00 – 5.00pm Acton Depot Open Weekend Bussing with Bertie — Storytime: 11.30 – 11.50 am / 2.30 – 2.50pm Hear the tale of Bertie the Bus as he copes with all the passengers who climb aboard. From his favourite customers to the dreaded Nasty Nathan, he takes care to take them all to their destinations.

Bussing with Bertie — Make and Take: 12.00 – 1.00 pm and 3.00 – 4.15pm Create your own Bertie the Bus and fill him with passengers, kind and horrid, real and imagined. Imagine the story of each of the people who travels aboard your bus.

39 Wellington Street, Covent Garden WC2E 7BB 020 7379 6433 www.ltmuseum.co.uk Sat 12 Apr – Mon 21 April Construct a Bus – Storytime: 11.00am / 2.00pm daily Undertake the challenge to be part of a bus construction line. Whose team can work together to make the quickest, strongest bus and help Cedric Shopping Bags get home without losing Construct a Bus – Make and Take: 11.30am / 2.30pm daily Drawing from the old and eccentric buses around the museum, transform a cardboard box into your own fantastical bus – give it wheels and take it on an exciting journey around the museum.

Kids Go Free

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March-April 2014

What’s On

Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline...

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EASTER HOLIDAY CLUBS AND CLASSES

MULTI-ACTIVIVTY

ADVENTURE

JANCETT PLAYSAFE HOLIDAY CLUBS

SUPERCAMPS: RAW ADVENTURE CAMPS

Satellites Club, All Saints Primary, Carshalton 020 8669 1725 www.jancettplaysafe.co.uk Dazzlers Club, Dorchester Primary School, Worcester Park Beano’s Club, Barrow Hedges Primary School, Carshalton Stanley’s Club, Stanley Park Infant School, Carshalton Collingwood Club, Collingwood School, Wallington Buddies Club, Beaumont Primary, Croydon Multi activity holiday clubs. Visit their website for details of dates, times and prices and to be able to register online

KIDSPACE ADVENTURES CROYDON

The Colonnades, 619 Purley Way, Croydon CR0 4RQ 020 8686 0040 croydonholidayclub@kidspaceadventures.com www.kidspaceadventures.com/croydon Check website for times Mon – Fri multi activity camp including action packed activities; creative and educational activities; an exclusive ‘free play’ session (exercise in disguise); all drinks and snacks; lunch and evening meal. Half, full and extended day sessions available. Visit their website for full details and prices.

KINGSWOOD HOUSE SCHOOL

56 West Hill, Epsom KT19 8LG 01372 746590 kingswoodactive@kingswoodhouse.org www.kingswoodhouse.org Mon 7 – Fri 11 Apr / Mon 14 – Thu 17 Apr 8.00am – 4.00pm

Kingswood Active

A variety of activities are offered including art, crafts, sport, laser quest and caving. For boys and girls aged 3 – 13. £28.00/day – contact the school for discounts available.

SUPERCAMPS: MULTI-ACTIVITY CAMPS

01235 832222 www.supercamps.co.uk Royal Russell School, Croydon Mon 7 – Thu 17 Apr (excl. Weekend) Whitgift School, South Croydon Mon 7 – Thu 17 Apr (excl. Weekend) Wimbledon High School, Wimbledon Mon 7 – Thu 17 Apr (excl. Weekend) 9.00 – 5.00pm with extended hours (8.00 – 6.00pm) available, contact them for details.

Action packed camps with over 40 activities on offer (sports, arts & crafts).

You can book individual days or full weeks. For children aged 4-14. See their website for details of costs.

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Royal Russell School, Croydon| 01235 832222 www.supercamps.co.uk Mon 7 – Fri 11 Apr 9.00 – 5.00pm extended hours (8.00 – 6.00pm) available, contact them for details.

Courses which give your children the opportunity to explore and discover survival skills in the outdoors. Activities include building your own survival kit; wild bug hunt, stone tools and trap making, mini expedition – map making, advanced map skills. For children aged 7-14. See their website for details of costs.

COOKERY LEARN TO COOK

2 Glyn House, 43 Burgh Heath Rd, Epsom KT17 4LY learntocook.info@gmail.com www.learntocookgoodfood.com Tue 8 Apr 10.30-12.30pm

Children’s Easter Pop-Up Bake Club

For ages 7+. Holiday only pop-up bake club but cooking parties also catered for all year round. Pop-up bake clubs give children a taster for just how enjoyable learning to cook can be. Children will be kept busy with a collection of cookery activities based around the theme of Easter. If they really do enjoy it, Learn to Cook can arrange a party for them and some friends around a cooking theme of their choice. They can learn and have fun at the same time. Cost £20 per child.

PERFORMING ARTS

welcome as well as non-Stagecoach students. For ages 4 to 18 years.

SUTTON MUSIC CENTRE

35 St Nicholas Way, Sutton, Surrey SM1 1JN 020 8642 2838 www.suttonmusiccentre.co.uk Mon 14 – Fri 18 Apr various times Workshops — get together with other players and create a band in four hours (10 – 14 & 12 – 16 year olds), Song writing with guitar-work on ideas to create an original song in 2 hours. (12 – 16 year olds), Guitar performance – work on a cover song, including singing, arranging and performing it. 3 hours (2 – 16 year olds) . From £20 per session — check website for updates on dates and times.

SPORTS ACTIVATE SPORT

01785 711572 www.activatesport.co.uk Mon 7 – Fri 11 Apr 9.30 – 5.30 with optional extended hours

Multi Sport & Activity

Mon 14 – Thu 17 Apr 9.30 – 5.30 with optional extended hours

Gold Medal Academy

Academies are 3 to 5 days long with every course featuring a visit from an International Athlete or Sporting Role Model. Visit their website for more details and to book. Quote ASFM14 for a 10% discount

READY STEADY GO KIDS

Venues & dates TBC 0800 690 6591 info@rsgk.co.uk www.rsgk.co.uk Visit the website for more information

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PERFORM EASTER WORKSHOPS

Road Centre, Trinity United Reform Church, Mansel Road, London, SW19 4AA St Stephen’s Millennium Hall, College Road, Dulwich, London, SE21 7HW 0845 400 1273 www.perform.org.uk Mon 14 – Wed 16 Apr 2.30 – 4.30pm

For a wealth of information on what to do with families locally, scan the code into your smartphone

TUITION

11+ HOLIDAY LEARNING CLUB

Club held at Laleham Lea Primary School, Purley CR8 3JJ 0845 056 8889/ 020 8669 2197 www.holidaylearningclub.com Mon 14 Apr – Fri 18 Apr 9.00 – 3.30pm The 11+ Holiday Learning Club, as featured in The Times newspaper, is an academic and fun holiday club solely for pupils preparing to sit their 11+ exams this year. With 11+ tutors in attendance daily, your child will benefit from structured 11+ tuition and tests in challenging areas of the 11+ syllabus. Their aim is to eliminate weak areas in a stimulating yet fun environment. Now in its 5th year, their results speak for themselves. For 9 /10 year olds. £200 – £250 per week for a full day.

11+ MOCK ENGLISH EXAMS

Wallington, Surrey 020 8669 9794 www.tuitionsutton.com At dates & times to suit students Mock exams taken in the tutor’s home in a small group to get used to timings. The students are given personal feedback and techniques explained where weaknesses are found. These opportunities give students confidence. Parents can be informed of any gaps in their child’s knowledge and personalised revision courses can be organised. For students taking the 11+ exams in September.

SOUTHERN TUTORS

Courses held at Rosebery School, Epsom (Please contact Southern Tutors, not Rosebery School) 013727 21119/07986 564 651 info@southerntutors.co.uk www.southerntutors.co.uk Mon 7 & Tue 8 Apr / Tue 27 & Wed 28 May 9.30 – 3.30pm

11 plus courses 10.00 – 2.00pm

GCSE Maths courses Intensive revision courses

The Wizard Of Oz

This spring take a trip down the Yellow Brick Road to discover the Ruby Slippers, brave the Haunted Forest and explore the strange and colourful world of your imaginations. 3-day courses specially designed to encourage creativity, confidence and communication skills as well as being a kaleidoscope of fun. On the final day, family and friends are invited to a magical mini performance which will delight and enchant. 4-8 years

Bocketts Farm Park 5th - 21st April 2014

PEDA EASTER GO-KARL T EGGSTRAVAGANZA FANTASTIC FAMILY FUN THIS SPRING! › Easter Egg Hunt trail › Over 300 baby lambs due › Heated indoor playbarn › Plenty of outdoor play

STAGECOACH EPSOM EASTER WORKSHOP

Blenheim High School, Longmead, Road, Epsom, KT199BH 020 8642 3500 epsom@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/epsom/holiday workshops Mon 7 – Fri 11 Apr A professional, high energy and exciting week of rehearsals in dance, drama and singing geared towards a full scale show on stage on the last day. All abilities

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NEW FANTAS TIC TRACK!

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

D AR AW WI NN ING !

www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

#

OFF full price farm entry per person SPECIAL £1 (max 5 people) valid any day in March 2014.

OFFER

Only with this voucher.

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March-April 2014

23

Classified Adverts Services

Parties

John Parker Decorating No job too big or too small—Sutton Area 0755 791 1024 / 0208 661 7351 jparker2595@gmail.com

Tuition

www.magictheo.com

Mrs Jones EDUCATION

07711 724129 (Magic Circle & Equity)

11 PLUS TUITION

Voted One Of The UK’s Favourite Entertainers Free Magic Wand & Certificate for Birthday Child

& Mock Exam Practice West & South West London

FLOSSIE 07954 564372 1 or 2 hour Fun Filled Parties with Magic, Music and Games.

Auctions

Y3 (pre-Plus), Y4 and Y5 (11 Plus) State Grammar and Private Schools Bursaries and Scholarships

www.flossiechildrensentertainer.co.uk

Mathematics, English, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning, Exam Practice, Interview Technique

FREE SIGN UP; FREE CREDITS An exciting online auction win genuine quality products & properties from £1 www.firstclassbid.co.uk

Highly Experienced Graduate Teachers

11+ Holiday Learning Club Featured in The Times Newspaper!

When: Monday 14th April to Friday 18th April 2014 Time: 9.00am to 3.30pm daily Where: Laleham Lea Prep School, 29 Peaks Hill, Purley CR8 3JJ Only 5 mins drive from Wallington

BOOK NOW!

www.holidaylearningclub.com or call 0845 056 8889

EXCELLENT RESULTS

TEL: 0208-390-6076

Advertise your business in this space from £12.00/month.

Call Izabella on 020 8669 5187

www.11plustuition.co.uk www.11plustuition.co.uk New Tutors–please check website for details

10 year olds

PRIVATE TUTOR WALLINGTON English, verbal and non-verbal reasoning, Mock exams Cherry Mattey BA (Hons) Cert Ed (CRB checked) 0208 669 9794 Email: tuitionsutton@gmail.com www.tuitionsutton.com

For more up-to-date information and local what's on for families, visit

www.fleet-tutors.co.uk

Southern Tutors Saturday and Holiday 11plus courses. GCSE. A level.

01372 721119 07986 564 651 info@southerntutors.co.uk www.southerntutors.co.uk

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GrEaT

NEW teddy bear workshop parties

WhATEVER thE WeaTHeR

Parties include: • Invitations.

• 1 hour of free play.

• Exclusive use of Teddy Bear Workshop to stuff, fluff, name and adopt your bear.

• Lots of Bears to choose from!

• Party banquet feast.

• Party host for the Kidspace initiation, workshop and banquet.

• Exclusive FREE gift for the birthday child.

• Party bag for every child.

• Extra options available.

**Suitable for ages 3+ **

• Hobbledown is a 50-acre farm • We also have more than 150 park adventure featuring towers, animals on show tunnels, mazes, aerial walkways, • Winner of Best Business, a daring high ropes course and a Epsom Downs region 14,000 sq ft indoor play barn Epsom & Ewell Business Awards Follow us on facebook; hobbledownuk

Monday-Thursday £21.95 per child or £26.95 per child with outfit (minimum of 8 children)

and twitter; @Hobbledown

Friday - Sunday £24.95 per child or £29.95 per child with outfit (minimum of 10 children)

Find us at: Hobbledown Children’s Farm Horton Lane, Epsom, Surrey KT19 8PT T: 0843 289 4979 E: thehobblers@hobbledown.com www.hobbledown.com

Find us at: Unit 3, The Colonnades, 619 Purley Way, Croydon, Surrey CR0 4RQ T: 020 8686 0040 E: croydonenquiries@kidspaceadventures.com For offers and events see our website www.kidspaceadventures.com

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