Families London Surrey Borders Sep/Oct 2017

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IN THIS ISSUE Education Focus

School news & open day directory

Halloween Spooktacular Lots of spooky events to enjoy this Halloween

Clubs & Classes Directory A round up of the latest classes to enjoy this Autumn

BE GOOD AT BEING YOURSELF

CHEAM & WORCESTER PARK 020 8773 4242 COULSDON 0345 078 0805 CROYDON 0845 265 7083 EPSOM 01372 730363 MITCHAM & MERTON PARK 020 8942 3502 SHIRLEY 020 8949 1116

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Creative Courage For Life

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Issue 76 September/October familiesonline.co.uk

SUTTON 01372 740284

familiesonline.co.uk Families London Surrey Borders

SUMMER HOLIDAYS ACTIVITY CAMPS 2017 Mini Mice ~ 4-7 years Cool Cats ~ 8-10 years Top Dogs ~ 11-14 years Camps are 8.30am until 5.30pm.

Morning sessions available.

All childcare vouchers accepted.

We organise Kids’ Parties too!

Call us for more info on 020 8657 9313 or visit www.croydonsportsclub.co.uk

Learn to dance, act & sing Little Stars (4 – 6 years) Stars 1, 2 & 3 (7 – 16 years)

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 spotlightsuk

spotlightsuk

@spotlightsuk

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

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The MultiSports Group Change your game

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Amersham&Chorleywood Sutton & Cheam Weekend sports for boys and girls aged 4 - 16 of all abilities

Tel: 0844 012933350450 774051 www.multisports.co.uk ENROLLING NOW FORFOR OUR OUR AUTUMN TERM WORKSHOP ENROLLING NOW SUMMER WORKSHOP IN JULY AND AUTUMN TERM IN SEPTEMBER

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2 Families London Surrey Borders

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In this issue...

4 5 6 8 9 10 14 17 18 20 22 22

London Surrey Borders Tel: 01923 239 664 Editor Tamar Pearson editor@families-LSB.co.uk Design Rebecca Carr Printer Print Mates 21,000 copies printed 42,000 readers per issue Next issue November/ December 2017 Booking deadline 4 October 2017 Cover image Deposit Photos

Editor’s note With the imminent arrival of Autumn and the start of the new academic year upon us, I would like to wish all my readers and their families a wonderful adventure, whether it be in the classroom or outdoors chasing the changes in the weather.

I have come across this wonderful gem of a read, A Rainy-Day Kids Adventure Book by Steph Scott and Katie Akers, which is the prefect book for encouraging youngsters to see the excitement of wind, snow and rain.

Packed with outdoor educational activities, games, crafts suitable for children aged 3–99. You can get your copy from www. batsford.com

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

familiesonline.co.uk

Local news Clubs & classes news Education news Great minds and how to grow them Science - feeding their curiosity Education diretory and school open days More to School than lessons Developmental crafts What’s on Halloween Spooktacular Firework displays Children’s Theatre

Families LSB welcomed Luigi Palmieri to join our team With the imminent arrival of my second born, Families LSB has welcomed Luigi Palmieri, a French business intern, to join our team over the Summer to collect and collate and help as much as possible before baby arrives.

Luigi has a passion for the arts, so I sent him on a little adventure to the National Gallery to put together his thoughts on why families should frequent a place like the National Gallery.

Here are his thoughts ………What is the best moment for my child to discover arts? How can it be fun and educational at the same time? These are questions parents ask themselves regarding their children’s education.

With more than 2,300 paintings in the collection, there are hundreds of reasons for your children to discover the National Gallery. For those who think that museums are boring places, they should reconsider their thoughts. Effectively, the National Gallery is an exceptional museum where you and your children can enjoy the beauty and fascinating stories of historically renown art pieces in many ways. Furthermore, you can enjoy free access to all the arts rooms, so why wait?

If you’re not convinced yet, here are 3 reasons to involve your children into these magnificent priceless works of the National Gallery.

1.

2.

3.

Discover paintings from great artists like Leonardo da Vinci to Vincent Van Gogh that will contribute to create lifelong learners. Indeed, museums encourage curiosity which is necessary for children’s cultural minds.

Get creative with families’ holiday workshops. You will be able to brush up your skills and create your own masterpiece. Children, just like parents and grandparents will enjoy these families’ activities.

Invite your children to listen and enjoy live music concerts at the Gallery. They will be thrilled by regular concerts and other artistic events, and again, it’s free!

Open daily from 10am, the National Gallery will be happy to welcome you and your children to discover amazing paintings, stories, events and activities. Don’t wait any longer to involve your children into Art in the heart of the National Gallery of London. visit www.nationalgallery.org.uk/ families for a full list of all the family activities happening at the National Gallery.

Families London Surrey Borders 3

News & Views

Get lost in the land of Narnia as new adventure trail opens at new Banstead Woods and Chipstead Downs Nature Reserve Visitors to the newly designated Banstead Woods and Chipstead Downs Nature Reserve in Surrey can come face to face with Aslan the Lion, spot Lucy Pevensey waiting by the lamp post and even walk through the wardrobe entrance to Narnia, as these iconic characters from the children’s classic tale ‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’ have been brought to life at an enchanting new Narnia themed nature trail.

By creating this unique trail, the Council hopes to encourage more people, particularly children and families, to explore and enjoy the great outdoors.

Oak Tree shortage in Europe causes delay in the construction of the new Adventure Playground at Hever Castle Hever Castle are disappointed to announce that the grand opening of their new adventure playground, Tudor Towers been delayed due to a severe shortage of quality oak in Europe.

We will keep you updated on the project and look forward to sharing this exciting new play area with you when it is completed in the autumn. But don’t let this delay stop you from visiting Hever Castle over the next few months as there are always amazing activities on for all the family.

For a full list of events at Hever Caste please visit www.hevercastle.co.uk/whats-on

Paper Birds - Ten fun, feathery friends to pop out and make Meet Olive the Owl who loves breakfast but hates rainy days and Hektor the nectar collector on this delightful craft project for any young artist ages 8 and above.

Designed by Ruby Taylor, a designer, illustrator, and crafter, Paper Birds brings you a gorgeously illustrated cast of feathery new friends to press-out, make, and play with. Includes information about each bird’s unique personality, with “likes” and “dislikes” listed so you can really get to know each character in this book. Retailing for £9.99 at www. quartoknows.com/books/9781782404996/Paper-Birds

This Summer Windsor Great Park has launched a photography competition for budding photographers Whether a fan of close up blooms, panoramic landscapes, enchanting displays or wildlife moving through their natural habitat, Windsor Great Park wants to see it through your lens.

Three lucky winners will receive a one hour photography workshop with professional photographer, Gill Aspel in Windsor Great Park, as well as featuring in the official 2019 Windsor Great Park calendar.

To enter, photos must be taken outdoors in the public areas of Windsor Great Park including The Savill Garden and must be in landscape format.

Please email images to competitions@windsorgreatpark.co.uk before the 30 September. For more information and full terms and conditions, visit www.windsorgreatpark.co.uk/summermoments

Grow young minds with DKfindout! Posters DK has released six stunning DKfindout! posters full of amazing facts and eye-catching photographs to help children learn.

There are six to collect: Animals, Bugs, Dinosaurs, Human Body, Times Tables and Solar System. Suitable for Key Stage 1 & 2 these posters will help children discover the characteristics of the five different vertebrates and invertebrates, learn amazing facts about butterflies and beetles, recognise a Argentinosaurus from a Triceratops, identify the names of different body parts, improve their multiplication, and learn more about our solar system.

55x70_alison.qxp_Layout 9 25/08/2016 10:52 Pa Retailing at £2.99 each form www.DK.com

Wood Chips Forest School

For classes of pure MADness, join MAD Academy

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Babies from 3 months action songs and sensory stimulation

For further information please call or email:

Walkers to 2 years music, movement and motor development 2 to 4 years dance, musicality and beat competency

Classes in Croydon & surrounding areas Call Alison on 020 8407 1726 or email: alison.storey@madacademy.com

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

4 Families London Surrey Borders

Speech & Drama Classes LAMDA training for all ages After-School and Weekend Sessions Group and Private Tuition Available

07947 545 309 020 3620 2866 Come and have fun with your little ones in beautiful Chipstead woodland. Sessions each Weds and Thurs. Run by fully qualified Forest School Leader. For more info email: woodchipsinfo@btinternet.com or contact Susie 07982 1984 51

jenna@curtainupdrama.co.uk www.curtainupdrama.co.uk 4, Carlton Road, South Croydon, CR2 0BP familiesonline.co.uk

Clubs & Classes News

A little bit about Gymboree Play & Music, formally known as Gymboree Cheam

Get Happy – Get Outside! At Wood Chips Forest School Parent and Toddler group Bring along your little adventurers to help them explore and have fun in a beautiful woodland setting. Wood Chips Forest School hold Parent/ Carer and Toddler sessions each Wednesday and Thursday in Chipstead, where they share woodland activities, stories, singing and lots more! The sessions are very relaxed following the Forest School ethos of being child-led. Run

by Susie Timms, a fully qualified Forest School Leader whose passion for the outdoors knows no bounds! So come along and have fun in the natural environment, make new friends and discover the joys of getting muddy occasionally!

For more info email woodchipsinfo@btinternet.com or call 07982 198451.

Stagecoach Shirley Celebrates 20th Year As the Autumn term begins at Stagecoach Performing Arts Shirley, the students are all excited to begin rehearsals for the end of term show which will be performed in December.

Principal Kim Findlay says “The students love our show term. Other terms have a different focus – either on specific performing arts skills attainment or culminating in a demonstration of the term’s work in a relaxed performance for parents. But the performance term is the one they really love – with costumes, lights and everyone having their own part; it’s a very fun and special term.”

Stagecoach Shirley runs Saturday classes at Shirley High School for children aged 4-18 years, and 2017 marks the school’s 20th year.

“It’s amazing to think of the hundreds of children we’ve had pass through our doors over the years, and what they have accomplished in their time with us and beyond” Kim says. “We nurture the shy and apprehensive, until they find their feet and voice, whilst at the same time developing and channelling those with bundles of talent, confidence and energy. We believe in the potential of every child.”

For more information regarding weekly classes visit www.stagecoach. co.uk/shirley or call Kim on 020 8949 1116.

Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes

Gymboree Play & Music classes are age specific and all children in the class are at the same stage developmentally, ensuring they learn by watching and copying their peers. As children grow they move through the programme developed specifically for the age of the children in the room.

Sensory Baby Play -Dedicated to pre-mobile babies, these classes are designed to introduce babies to new sights, sounds and sensory experiences.

Gymboree Play & Learn 2 - Learn about cause and effect, develops confidence and strength in moving and climbing.

Gymboree Play & Learn 3 - Explore two-way communication with a variety of fun activities. Develop walking skills and movement abilities.

Gymboree Play & Learn 4 - Figure out how the world works through games and physical tasks with the introduction of vocabulary.

Gymboree Play & Learn 5 - Stretch the imagination through creative play to support language development and social interaction.

Gymboree Play & Learn 6 - Taking our imagination to new highs with advanced class themes.

For more information call 07990 761259

Reviving the bedtime story......

By Curtains Up A main concern for parents is their child’s inability to express emotion freely or to find words to express themselves. As adults, we learn how to express strong emotion, through experience. Children therefore learn how to express themselves in a situation using parents as a point of reference.

A great way to help your child would be the bedtime story. A child’s experiences with books should be enjoyable and you can make it so. Not only does this allow brain development, improving concentration, and mastery of language, it cultivates the imagination, creates a bond, and encourages a love for reading. So, grab a book, cuddle up and enjoy the adventure together!

Curtain Up is a drama company teaching speech & drama to children, young adults and adults. For further information on classes visit www. curtainupdrama.co.uk

Perform is a unique children’s drama school that has a special emphasis on child development.

Perform uses a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s full potential.

Run by highly experienced actor-teachers, in small groups, Perform classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Coordination, and Concentration. The perform curriculum ensures plenty of fun, using a mix of energetic games, catchy songs and funky dances. All class materials are written by Perform, with apps, CDs and videos that the children can play at home to keep the magic alive. Each term sees a brand new theme to keep imaginations buzzing.

This autumn, 4-7s will be venturing Under the Sea on a colourful aquatic adventure while 7-12s will be working rocktastic fairytale adaptation, Cinderella Rocks.

NEW Classes opening in Sutton this Sepember Wednesdays – 4 – 7 years, 4pm Start and 7 – 12 years, 5pm start at Sutton Baptist Church, 21 Cheam Road, Sutton, Surrey, SM1 1SN.

FREE trial available

Nearest classes to you- Sutton & Purely Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions for newcomers. For more information please contact 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk or visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class today. familiesonline.co.uk

Gymboree Play and Music Cheam Sensory Baby Play Art Music

Play & Learn Parties

TRY A FREE CLASS TODAY! 07990 761 259 cheam@gymboree-uk.com www.gymboreeclasses.co.uk

Families London Surrey Borders 5

Nanny Share - a flexible childcare option

By Mrs Manjit Shah, Director at Buttons Nanny Agency

Education News

What is a Nanny Share?

A nanny share is when you and another family share the costs and responsibilities of employing a nanny. It’s a good option if you want to employ a nanny but can’t afford the expense on your own.

The nanny would be employed on a daily basis and would look after your child and another family’s child in either of your homes. This may be at the same time, or each family may have different hours. Another option is that the nanny may live with one family, but also care for other children within that home.

Nanny shares work best when the two families involved know each other, as its important that you can place trust with the other family and their home is a safe environment for you to send your children to. If you would like to enter into a nanny share but seek another family to join up with, then you can ask around amongst friends, local nanny agencies, playgroups, nurseries or children’s centres.

Advantages of a Nanny Share?

• • •

It provides your children with the best of both worlds, as your child is receiving near 1-2-1 care from a nanny but has other children around for company and play, from the comfort of a home setting.

You have the flexibility of having a nanny however with lower costs You can also negotiate more flexible hours with a nanny if your working hours vary or if you work evenings or weekends.

Disadvantages of a Nanny Share?

• • • •

You may have difficulty finding another family willing to do a nanny share. Or finding a family who shares the same views as you on issues such as discipline, meal plans, learning and development for the kids etc.

Planning and coordinating interviews can prove tricky and should be done with both families. You and the other family should both feel completely comfortable with the nanny you employ.

Nanny shares can be complicated in terms of your responsibilities as an employer.

Its important to spend time with the other family as you will need to work out how much to pay the nanny and what benefits you will offer. If you haven’t employed anyone before, you’ll also need to understand the law regarding tax and pensions.

How to Make a Nanny Share Work?

• • •

One parent will need to be the main contact point for the nanny, as this prevents confusion for the nanny.

Before you start looking for a nanny, you need to agree on how the arrangement will work with the other family. Where will the nanny and children be based? Split between two homes or based at one family’s home?

Once you have found the right nanny, you will need to have a contract drawn up between you (employers) and the nanny (employee). It will need to cover the arrangements, schedules of work, hours of work, salary, rates of pay etc to prevent any misunderstandings.

Visit www.buttonsnannyagency.com for more information.

Countdown to Banstead Prep – Transition Days, Taster Days and Dinosaurs!

Banstead Prep School, a new co-educational prep school for girls and boys aged 2 -11, opens this September. The first pupils visited the school last term to help them prepare for their new school. Staff showed them round the school site with its amazing facilities and engaged them in learning activities that will be typical of their time at Banstead Prep.

So what did the children think of the experience? “I got to paint a picture of my face and pretend to roar like a dinosaur! Rahhhhh!

I love my new school!” , Benjamin, joining Reception. “The activities were fun; we played class bingo to help us to get to know the other children”, Millie, joining Year 4 Many of the pupils met their teacher for next year for the first time; and were obviously impressed: “I loved rainbow writing my name with Miss Murphy! She is my new favourite teacher!” ; Ashton, joining Year 1 “I’m really looking forward to Mr Ayling being my teacher” Georgie, joining Year 4 Parents also provided feedback on what they think of the new school: “We are delighted that both our son and daughter will now be able to attend school together at Banstead Prep.

We have been to all of the transition events and open days and are really excited about what looks to be a forward thinking school with excellent teaching staff and lots of varied opportunities for the children. Our children really enjoyed meeting new friends.”

For more information on Banstead Prep visit www.bansteadprep.com

Little Learners Nursery introduces 30 hours funding for local parents Little Learners has chosen to support working families by offering the 30 hours funding to those that are eligible. We are offering the 30 hours as a stretched entitlement which equates to 22 hours per week for 51 weeks of the year.

The nurseries currently have 2 ways of providing the 22 hours per week: Option 1 Monday to Friday 1:30pm – 6:00pm There is a cost of £10.00 per week to cover snacks and tea and a charge of £4.25 for the additional 30 minutes of care. Total = £14.25 Option 2 3 days a week 8am – 6pm. Total = £49.25 Please contact the nurseries if you require further information or to come and have a look around. www.little-learners.net

6 Families London Surrey Borders

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St Christopher’s School and Care Home in in Epsom raise over £ 11000.00 for disabled children Each year St Christopher’s School choose a charity and raise funds in an exciting and age-appropriate way so that, in conjunction with the money raised the children understand the charitable cause.

This year’s chosen charity was MERU, a small local factory making BUGZIs- small bright green electric wheel chairs for young disabled children.

The School Council, with an average age of 6 headed off to the factory to meet the engineers and learn about the needs of a disabled child. They organised a special day entitled ‘Life without Limbs’, which included a fun run and activities which focussed on different ways of doing activities such as painting with your feet and playing sport without arms or legs.

The owner of the Care Home, Mr Barrett, had expressed an interest in getting involved with the MERU project and pledged to match any monies raised. True to his word, and with MP Chris Grayling and the director of MERU Sue Pressey, a final assembly took place where a cheque for over eleven thousand was handed to MERU . As the Chair of the School Council aged 7 summed up ‘We should all be very proud because we have made a real difference’.

For more information on St Christopher’s School please visit www.st-christophers.surrey.sch.uk

Downsend’s Double Dekker Keen swimmer and Surrey schoolgirl Lauren Dekker, a Year 7 pupil at Downsend School, has won a Gold Medal at the IAPS National Swimming Championships for the second successive year. The prestigious, long-standing event, held at K2, Crawley, allows pupils to compete in both individual and relay events, all of which were hotly contested.

In the U12 50m Freestyle event, Lauren competed against seven other finalists to win the event in a time of 29.45 seconds. She was presented with her medal by London 2012 Olympic Silver medallist, Michael Jamieson.

For more information on Downsend Schools visit www.downsend.co.uk

Reedham Park Schools New Head Proud of 78% Grammar Pass Rate

Dogs could help children improve their reading skills Many studies have shown that improving a child’s reading skills will tend to lead to a greater overall academic success and better life chances.

There have been numerous schemes and initiatives aimed at boosting both interest in and aptitudes for reading but one of the most novel involves bringing four-legged helpers into the classroom.

The practice originated in the US in 1999 with the Reading Education Assistance Dogs (READ) scheme. It was slower to catch on in the UK but has gained traction recently, with the Kennel Club’s Bark and Read Foundation being at the forefront.

According to the Kennel Club, reading to dogs has been proven to help children develop literacy skills and build confidence, through “both the calming effect the dogs’ presence has on children and the fact that the dog will listen to the children read without being judgemental or critical”.

Actress Zoe Wanamaker CBE, a supporter of the scheme, said: “That is why the Kennel Club’s Bark & Read project is such an inspiring idea, as we all know that dogs are great listeners and won’t judge if we stumble over a word.”

‘’I was incredibly excited to step into the role of Headteacher at Reedham Park School last September and have thoroughly enjoyed my first year.

I feel we have managed to maintain the traditional Reedham values whilst at the same time add a few new features. We have introduced an early drop off facility from 8.00am five days a week and now run a homework club from Monday to Thursday until 6.00pm. Our Kindergarten (Reception) class has increased from half days to full days throughout the year and more extra curricula clubs have been added such as debating, chess, sewing, fencing, and latterly a feel good club; run by the children for the children, where students can go to discuss any friendship issues. We are also starting a netball club this September in response to a parents’ survey sent out recently.

Our results this year were very impressive; 78% of those who sat Grammar school entrance exams succeeded in gaining a place at their chosen Grammar school. I couldn’t have been more proud of my first set of leavers. I wish them all good luck in their new schools and know they will all go on to achieve great things, Katie Shah.

Visit www.reedhamparkschool.org.uk for more information.

An accomplished Headmaster with a love of sport is taking the helm at Cumnor House School Daniel Cummings joins Cumnor House this September to lead the boys’ school. He has taught in the state and independent schools sector in England as well as in Australia and has a track record of innovation and leadership.

The experienced Headmaster guided his last school into The Sunday Times Top 100 UK Prep Schools – entering the chart at number 10 of the London schools.

The father-of-two said: “Cumnor already has an excellent reputation for providing top class education and academic success. The sports and the arts are well established with a strong history of success. These coupled with the outstanding facilities and an experienced professional staff body give Cumnor every ingredient to continue to be an exceptional school for the future.”

An inspection of the school in February by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) rated it as excellent. For more information on Cumnor House please visit www.cumnorhouse.com familiesonline.co.uk

Families London Surrey Borders 7

How to create a high performing child: Cultivate confidence and resilience – if a child thinks they can, they

keep trying. It’s the ones that think they can’t who fall behind – the ones who say ‘I’m rubbish at this’. Don’t sort everything out for them – and that includes tying their shoelaces as much as it does doing their homework. And model the behaviour – don’t give up too easily on things in your life.

Key words: How could you do this? Have you done anything similar

before? What did you do then? ‘I know you can. I know it’s hard to do now but I know you can learn how to do this in time if you work at it.’

Develop critical or logical thinking: The ability to deduct, hypothesise, reason and seek evidence is probably the characiteristic most associated with academic success.

Great minds and how to grow them

By Wendy Berliner

With the children back to school, you could be forgiven for thinking you are handing them over to the professionals and your job is just to make sure they get enough good food, rest and enjoyment so that they flourish in class.

Perhaps you think your teaching job is limited to hearing the little ones read while you make sure the bigger ones do their homework. But it’s more than that. What parents do at home educationally can make the difference between whether their children succeed at school or not.

The truth is that there is more room at the top of the class than we thought and children’s success can be made rather than born. The key is developing the right learning attributes and attitudes such as curiosity, persistence and hard work. But with children spending as little as 15% of their time in class, life at home with parents has to be at the heart of this development.

The latest research from education and neuroscience proves how malleable the brain is, how learning potential can grow, how IQ isn’t fixed – it can go up if you invest in it, and it can probably go down if you don’t.

In our new book Great Minds and How to Grow Them, myself and Professor Deborah Eyre, a lifetime specialist in advanced learning have looked at the research in detail and come up with guidance any parent can use at home, fitting it seamlessly into normal daily life.

What follows are five top ideas you can use at home. They come from Deborah’s High Performance Learning System which is being introduced to schools in the UK and abroad and is detailed for parents in Great Minds and How to Grow Them.

Key words: ‘Why do you think. . . (bread goes mouldy, babies cry, leaves fall when autumn comes, people disagree about climate change?)’ ‘I wonder if that happened because of this?’ ‘How could I find out the truth about that?’

Encourage them to monitor their progress – very important to the

high performer is knowing how they are doing, knowing they are on track with their homework for example, knowing they need to put more effort into improving certain things.

Key words: ‘What do you need to be able to do this? How can you check you’re on track? How can you tell whether you are doing it right?

Encourage open mindedness – being open to new ideas is the hallmark of an advanced learner. Start with being open minded yourself so you model what it’s like to be receptive of ideas that differ from your own.

Key words: ‘That’s different to us, isn’t that interesting?’ ‘I never thought of it like that, but that is such a good approach.’

Practice – it’s the only way to get good at something. Make sure it is regular, deliberate and planned, working towards achievable incremental goals and you practise what you can’t do until you can do it well.

Key words: ‘You are really good at that now, what’s the next step up from (playing Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star on your recorder, writing a story of 100 words/ swimming a width of the pool?)’

Great Minds and How to Grow Them

by Wendy Berliner and Deborah Eyre. For a 20% discount and free delivery of the book use webcode: GMGT230 on www.routledge.com

Exclusive Reader Offer available for Families

Reader offer available until 31 December 2017.

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Comprenant l’étude de la langue écrite et orale.

Programme pédagogique français.

French Classes for all Primary School Children Beginners and French speakers Le samedi après-midi à Wray Common School, Reigate RH2 0LR Contactez-nous 07913 811345 info@petite-ecole-reigate.co.uk | www.petite-ecole-reigate.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Science – feeding their curiosity importance as English and Maths during primary years as pupils need to prepare for the transition into senior school, as quite often students start off their senior school career with little or no investigative scientific knowledge.’’

‘’As my first student of the day arrives for class, I see the sparkle in his eyes as he asks me whether we will be doing a practical today!’’, Kabita Choudhary, Biology teacher at Warlingham High School.

A DfE spokesman agreed with Ofsted’s statement – that pupils must learn through high-quality practical work if we are to produce the brilliant scientists vital for our economic prosperity. ‘’Children are intensely curious. This curiosity enables them to learn about the world we live in. Science isn’t much different, it enables pupils to carry out experiments and help them draw out conclusions from their investigations. As an experienced teacher, I have found that a student’s learning during experimental work is significantly accelerated, and knowledge gained is easily applied in an examination.

I feel science needs to be given the same

Science is taught both at primary and secondary level but there is a huge contrast in teaching style. Advanced science requires strong investigative knowledge and primary science can help develop these skills earlier. The best part of the lesson is when a student gets to experiment their ideas, use the information to make scientific predictions and then use mathematics and literacy to explain what has happened and why. Due to multiple reason, including a different in teaching hours and practical experience obtained there is a huge distinction in the subject at secondary level compared to primary.

in both state and independent schooling systems to ensure that every child has the foundation and baseline knowledge to excel in all the sciences once they have entered secondary school and beyond.

If you would like to find out more about the classes please contact Katiba on getaheadinscience@gmail.com

In a recent report OFSTED found that many students are struggling with advanced science because of a lack of time spent undertaking traditional experiments and building the basic foundation, vocabulary and understanding needed when taking part in scientific experiments.

Kabita Choudhary will be launching Get Ahead Science with Autumn, with the objective to provide that bridge for children throughout Croydon, Sutton and Espom,

Open Day Friday 29th September Tours available from 9:15 to 10:30am please contact the school office to book a tour or to arrange an alternative date

“Pastorally, it is outstanding…”

The Good Schools Guide

An academically challenging education for girls from Nursery to Sixth Form Open Mornings on 23 Sep, 17 Oct & 8 Nov Book now at www.suttonhigh.gdst.net familiesonline.co.uk

Families London Surrey Borders 9

Education Focus - Schools and Open Day Directory

Little Learners Day Nurseries 46 Haling Park Road South Croydon, CR2 6NE 020 8649 7745 156 Whitehorse Road West Croydon, CR0 2LA 020 8683 2476 The School House, Beaumont Primary Old Lodge Lane Purley, CR8 4DN 020 8406 0080 At Little Learners, we operate three small and very friendly day nurseries in the Croydon area.

Caring for children aged 6 weeks to 4 years at our South Croydon and West Croydon branches and children aged 2-4 years at our Purley branch. We offer full time, part time and Early Years Funding sessions (including 30 hours) as well as extended opening hours of 7:30am until 6:30pm at all 3 branches, subject to availability. www.little-learners.net

Abadour School

Brighton Road,Burgh Heath, Tadworth, KT20 6AJ 01737 354 119 Co – educational Prep school Pupils aged 2 – 13 years Open Day: Fri 6 Oct, 9am – 12pm www.aberdourschool.co.uk

Banstead Preparatory School Sutton Lane, Banstead, SM7 3RA 01737 363600 Co – educational Prep school and Nursery Pupils aged 2 – 11 years Open Day: Thurs 12 Oct, 9.30am Open Day: Fri 17 Nov, 9.30am At Banstead Prep, your child will benefit from outstanding facilities and a broad curriculum, delivered by specialist subject teachers, which very few prep schools are able to match. Our site includes science labs, a full size floodlit all-weather games pitch, sports hall, an indoor swimming pool, professional dance studio and specialist art, music and drama teaching spaces.

10 Families London Surrey Borders

In our nursery, we offer girls and boys from 2 years, a happy and secure environment in a dedicated building on the main school site, with full access to all that Banstead Prep can offer.

The Nursery team, led by a fully qualified Early Years Teacher, will ensure your child is completely prepared for a confident transition to Reception and beyond. www.bansteadprep.com

Caterham School

Harestone Valley Rd. Caterham, CR3 6YA 01883 343028 Co-educational day and boarding school.

Pupils aged 3 – 18 years.

Open Day: Sat 23 Sep, 9.30am – 12pm www.caterhamschool.co.uk

Chinthurst School

Tadworth Street, Tadworth, KT20 5AP 01737 812 011 Co-educational day school.

Pupils aged 3 – 18 years.

Open Day: 5 Oct & Thurs 9 Oct, 10.30am www.chinthurstschool.co.uk

City of London Freeman’s

Ashstead Park, KT21 1ET 013 7282 2423 Co-educational day and boarding school.

Pupils aged 7 – 18 years.

Open Day: Fri 29 Sep, 9.15am – 11.30am Sixth Form Open Evening: Thurs 21 Sep. 6.45pm – 7pm Freemans Fun: Thurs 12 Oct, 4.15pm – 5.30pm Open Day: Sat 14 Oct, 9.30am – 12.30pm www.clfs.surrey.sch.uk

Collingwood School 3 Springfield Road, Wallington, SM6 0BD 020 8647 4607 Co-educational day school.

Pupils aged 2 – 11 years Open Day: Sat 14 Oct, 10am– 12noon www.collingwoodschool.org.uk Croydon High School

Old Farleigh Rd, CR2 8YB 020 8260 7508 Independent girls’ day school Pupils aged 3 – 18 years Open Day Whole School: Sat 7 Oct, 9.30 - 12.30pm.

Croydon High Junior School Croydon High School in Selsdon, Surrey is an exceptional independent day school for girls aged 3 to 18.

The Junior School, on the same spacious 22-acre site as the

Seniors, shares excellent sports facilities, including an indoor swimming pool where girls enjoy lessons from Reception age.

Pupils aged 2 – 6 years Pre-Prep School Open House Week: 2-6 Oct, All Day www.downsend.co.uk

Girls join Nursery aged 3, entering a warm, caring environment focused on inspiring confidence.

Classrooms are light, bright and purpose-built and in the innovative 4D room, a combination of sound, light, music and touch inspires junior school girls to produce wonderful written and creative work.

Elmhurst School for Boys, and Little Elms Nursery

Thanks to a legacy from a former Music teacher, all Year 3 girls learn a stringed instrument with free tuition for a year. Pastoral care is an absolute priority; supporting girls as they develop socially and ensuring success and effort are celebrated equally. www.croydonhigh.gdst.net

Cumnor House Boys & Tree Tops Nursery (Pampisford Rd)

168 Pampisford Rd, South Croydon, CR2 6DA 020 8660 3445 Independent day school for boys with a Co-Educational Nursery.

Pupils aged 2 – 13 years Open Day: Sat 30 Sep, 9am -11.30am Tree Tops Nursery: Sat 30 Sep, 9.30am -12noon

Cumnor House Girls & Tree Tops Nursery

1 Woodcote Ln, Purley, CR8 3HB 020 8668 0050 Independent day school for girls with a Co-Educational Nursery.

Pupils aged 2 – 13 years Open Day: Sat 30 Sep, 10am -12 noon Tree Tops Nursery: Sat 30 Sep, 9.30am -12 noon www.cumnorhouse.com

Downsend Prep School Leatherhead

1 Leatherhead Rd, Leatherhead, KT22 8TJ 01372 372311 Co – educational Prep school Pupils aged 2 – 13 years Open Day: Sat 7 Oct, 9.15am – 12noon.

Downsend Pre Prep

Ashtead -22 Oakfield Road, Ashtead, KT21 2RE 01372 385439 Leatherhead - 13 Epsom Road, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 8ST 01372 385437 Epsom - 6 Norman Avenue, Epsom, KT17 3AB 01372 385438 Co – educational Pre prep school

44-48 S Park Hill Rd, South Croydon, CR2 7DW 020 8688 0661 Independent day school for boys.

Pupils aged 2 – 11 years www.elmhurstschool.net

Epsom College

Epsom, KT17 4JQ 01372 821000 Co-educational boarding schools Pupils aged 11–18 years Open Day: Sat 7 Oct Open Day: Sat 10 Mar www.epsomcollege.org.uk

Essendene Lodge

Essendene Rd, Caterham, CR3 5PB 018 8334 8349 Co – educational day school www.essendenelodge.co.uk

Ewell Castle Junior and Senior

Church St, Ewell, KT17 2AW 020 8393 1413 Co educational day school.

Pupils 3 – 18 years 6th Form Open Evening: Tues 26 Sep, 6pm – 8pm Whole School Open Day: Sat 7 Oct, 10am – 12noon Whole School Open Day: Wed 11 Oct, 9am – 10.30am Whole School Open Day: Thurs 9 Nov, 9am – 10.30am Located in beautiful grounds in the picturesque village of Ewell, just half an hour from London, Ewell Castle School provides a small and caring co-educational environment for children 3-18. The vision of the School is to nurture and inspire pupils to achieve within a happy and family friendly atmosphere.

A benefit of being a small school is that each pupil is known and valued within a caring, stimulating and disciplined environment.

A broad curriculum is offered, which focuses on nurturing and developing skills for a modern world and achieving each child’s potential. All aspects of personal development are fostered, and pastoral care and support which is consistently acknowledged to be outstanding (ISI Report 2012) contributes greatly to personal familiesonline.co.uk

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

Inspiring Curiosity

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

Sixth Form Open Evening

Albert Einstein claimed he had no special talents, just that he was passionately curious. We can’t all be Einsteins, but at Croydon High we provide the spark that ignites lifelong curiosity and love of learning.

Whatever stage of that journey your daughter is on, why not bring her along to our next Open Morning?

We guarantee there will be plenty to inspire her.

Tuesday 26th September 2017 6pm - 8pm

Please call 020 8260 7508 (Juniors) or 020 8260 7500 (Seniors) to find out more.

Whole School Open Morning

Croydon High Open Morning, Saturday 7 October 9.30-12.30pm

Saturday 7th October 2017 10am - 12noon Wednesday 11th October 2017 9am - 10.30am For further details and to pre-register please visit our website ewellcastle.co.uk 020 8394 3576 admissions@ewellcastle.co.uk

www.croydonhigh.gdst.net

A new, co-educational independent prep school for boys and girls aged 2-11 SUTTON LANE, BANSTEAD familiesonline.co.uk

WWW.BANSTEADPREP.COM

01737 363600 Families London Surrey Borders 11

development and achievement of potential. www.ewellcastle.co.uk

www.oakwoodschool.org.uk

Homefield Preparatory

Preparatory -2, Melville Avenue, South Croydon, CR2 7YN Senior - Old Palace Rd, Croydon CR0 1AX 020 8688 2027 Independent day school for girls Pupils aged 4 – 18 years.

Open Day: Sat 16 Sep Seniors, 9.30am – 11.00am Nursery, Pre-School & Preparatory, 2pm – 4pm www.oldpalace.croydon.sch.uk

Western Road, Sutton, SM1 2TE 020 8642 0965 Independent day school for boys.

Pupils aged 3 – 13 years Open Day: Sat 30 Sep www.homefield.sutton.sch.uk

Kingswood House School, Epsom

56 West Hill, Epsom, KT19 8LG 01372 723590 Open Day: Thurs 5 Oct, 9.30am – 12noon Open Day: Sat 7 Oct, 9.30am – 12noon www.kingswoodhouse.org

Old Palace School of John Whitgift

Krishna Avanti Primary School

Temporary site until Sep ‘18, c/o The Minster Nursery & Infant School, Warrington Road, Croydon, CR0 4BH 020 8353 4253 Co Educational, Hindu Faith school.

Pupils aged 3 - 11 years.

Open Day: Wed 27 Sep Open Day: Tues 10 Oct All open days will have options to attend a morning tour of the classrooms and facilities at 9:30am and a 5pm presentation by the Principal. www.avanti.org.uk/kapscroydon

Reedham Park School

71a Old Lodge Lane, Purley, CR8 4DN 0208 660 6357 Co-educational day school.

Pupils aged 4 – 11 years.

Parents are always welcome at Reedham Park School. To arrange a personal tour fill out our online booking form.

Manor House Lane, Little Bookham, Leatherhead, KT23 4EN 013 7245 7077 Independent day school for girls Pupils aged 2 – 16 years.

Open Day: Sat 7 Oct, 10am www.manorhouseschool.org

Reedham Park is a small, successful school that provides a caring and nurturing environment for 4-11year old boys and girls and prove that an excellent independent education need not cost you a fortune. Reedham offers a traditional, no frills, preparatory school experience at a fraction of the fees charged by other independent schools in the area. The curriculum is broad and fulfilling, from introducing the children to times tables in Reception to learning Shakespeare and Latin by time they leave us. Thus Reedham Park Schools’ founding principle of ‘delivering an exceptional yet affordable education to local children’ remains to this day. www.reedhamparkschool.org.uk

Oakhyrst Grange

Royal Russell School

Laleham Lea

29 Peaks Hill, Purley, CR8 3J 020 8660 3351 Co-educational, Catholic day school.

Pupils aged 3 – 11 years. www.lalehamlea.co.uk

Manor House School & Nursery

160 Stanstead Rd, Caterham CR3 6AF 018 8334 3344 Co-educational Prep school.

Pupils aged 4 - 11 years.

Open Day: Fri 6 Oct 10am 12noon www.oakhyrstgrangeschool.co.uk

Coombe Lane, Croydon, CR0 5BX 020 8651 5884 Co-educational day and boarding school.

Pupils aged 3 – 18 years.

Open Day: Sat 23 Sep, 8.30am – 1pm www.royalrussell.co.uk

Oakwood School and Nursery

Seaton House School

59 Godstone Road, Purley, CR8 2AN 020 8668 2895 Co-educational,Catholic day school.

Pupils aged 3 – 11 years.

Open Day: Sat 7 Oct, 10am – 1pm 12 Families London Surrey Borders

to try challenges and discover their individual talents and gifts.

We aim to develop your daughter both pastorally and academically, based on knowing her personality and her skills set.

67 Banstead Road South, Sutton, SM2 5LH 020 8642 2332 Independent Prep school for girls www.seatonhouse.sutton.sch.uk

St Christopher’s School

6 Down’s Rd, Epsom, KT18 5HE 01372 721807 Co-educational nursery and Preprep.

Pupils aged 2 – 7½ years Open Day: Fri 29 Sep, 9:15 10:30am St Christopher’s School are specialists in education for young children aged from 3 to 7 and our happy, creative Pre Prep school was described in a recent inspection as ‘the best possible start that you can give your child’.

We look after your child during the vital first 7 years ensuring strong and rich foundations that will prepare them beautifully for life. You don’t know what type of child you have at 3 years old but by 7 you do! We ensure a sound platform in all areas of the curriculum and by the time your child is at the top of the school we can then gently guide you to the school that is the best possible fit for the next chapter of your child’s education. Our school is full of energy designed for young people to organically grow and succeed.

Book a tour on 01372721807. www.st-christophers.surrey.sch.uk

St David’s School

Woodcote Valley Rd, Purley, London CR8 3AL 020 8660 0723 Co-educational day school.

Pupils aged 2 – 11 years www.stdavidsschool.co.uk

We would be delighted to welcome you to visit us to learn how we value the whole girl, from our academic focus, through a connected curriculum, to their enrichment in our extracurricular programme. Girls can join our Nursery in the half- term before their third birthday, and we also provide wrap-around-care during term time.

We are ideally situated on a green and leafy site with our Junior School and Senior School on the same campus so transition into Senior School life is the natural next step. www.suttonhigh.gdst.net

Thames Christian College

Wye St, London SW11 2HB 020 7228 3933 Co Educational, Christian secondary school.

Pupils aged 11 – 16 years.

Open Day: Tues 26 Sep, 11am 1pm www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk

The Cedars School

Coombe Road, Lloyd Park, Croydon, CR0 5RD 020 8185 7770 Independent Catholic school for boys Pupils aged 11-18 years Open Day: Sat 30 Sep, 10am www.thecedarsschool.org.uk

Trinity School of John Whitgift

Shirley Park, Croydon CR9 7AT 020 8656 9541 Independent day school for boys.

Co – Educational 6th form.

Pupils aged 10 – 18 years.

Open Day: Sat 7 Oct 9am – 12noon www.trinity-school.org

Warlingham Park School Sutton High, Nursery and Juniors 86 Grove Rd Sutton, SM1 2AL 020 8225 3075

Sutton High Seniors

55 Cheam Rd, Sutton SM1 2AX 020 8642 0594 Independent day school for girls Pupils aged 3 – 18 years.

Open day: Sat 23 Sep, 10am start Whole School Open Day - Sat 24 Sep, 10am start At Sutton High School our priority is to enable girls to be happy, confident and independent. Our belief is that when girls enjoy coming to school they develop a love of learning and feel supported

Chelsham Common,Warlingham, CR6 9PB 01883 626844 Co-educational Prep school.

Pupils aged 2 – 11 years. www.warlinghamparkschool.com

Whitgift School

Haling Park, London, South Croydon, CR2 6YT 020 8688 9222 Independent day and boarding school for boys.

Pupils aged 10 – 18 years.

Open Day: Sat 23 Sep, 9am 1pm Open Evening: Tue 10 Oct, 4pm - 8pm www.whitgift.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

your child to fearlessly take on the challenge of secondary school.

Alongside this course we’ll help you navigate the process of selecting a new school. We’re confident you won’t be disappointed so why not book your free trial today?

Explore Learning’s secondary top tips!

Explore Learning are helping children of all abilities succeed in secondary!

September brings with it a new class or even a move to a different school for your child. For some, this is a very exciting time; at Explore Learning we hear our students chatting away about moving to ‘big school’ and planning trips to buy new uniforms and stationery. For others, you can see they are a little more anxious. Even those that are very confident ask questions about what it will be like when they move schools. How will they be able to tackle the new, harder work? It’s important to talk to children about what they are excited about as well as what they are concerned about. Let them know that it is ok to be worried about change, but it’s also good to take on a new challenge and confront your fears by trying new things.

At Explore Learning, we offer a course tailored to children in Year 6 to Year 9 called Succeed in Secondary which is specifically designed to help your family with the transition. We support children with the skills they need to excel in secondary school including debating, essay writing, delivering presentations, persuasive language, analysing and many more. Students get to grips with these skills though a whole range of topics including real life skills like budgeting and writing CVs. It’s the perfect course to help

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Keep them organized! Get your child to check their timetable each night and pack everything they need for the next day - one less thing for them to worry about.

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Their new teacher will have had information about your child from their previous teacher, however if there is something you feel is important that the teacher knows about your child, do drop them a letter/e-mail or ask for a quick chat.

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Moving schools or class can result in your child missing their friends. Ask them questions about new people they have met to encourage them to make new friends. Arrange to meet up with their old class mates outside of school so they can still see them.

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It’s really important to remember that if don’t get your first choice of school, you can find out about your options. Keep an open mind - and try not to show any concerns you have about a school to your child.

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Talk to families who already go there and arrange a visit to the school if you’ve not already been. You may find the school is the perfect place for your child. You can put your child’s name on the waiting list for the school you want to go to. This is no guarantee, but not everyone takes up the place they have been offered so you may get a place through the waiting list.

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Take the pressure off 11 plus exams. The exam is important, but don’t let your desire for your child to pass put extra pressure on them. Reassure your child that the exam is a chance to show off what they do know and if they can’t do something that is ok. Tell them whatever the outcome you are proud of them. Removing stress as much as possible will allow your child to perform at their best.

We’re giving them the confidence to tackle the new school year fearlessly!

EducationInvestor

Awards 2016

familiesonline.co.uk

Families London Surrey Borders 13

Families Clubs and Classes Directory of the best Clubs and Classes near you Pre School And Toddler Gymboree Play & Music Cheam Gymboree Play & Music are committed to quality because parents want the best for their children.

There’s more to school than lessons These days, education is about much more than what goes on in the classroom. Most schools –offer a range of extra-curricular and enrichment activities and these can be fun, educational, sociable and great for boosting a child’s confidence.

So how can you ensure your child capitalises on the opportunities on offer but still gets the balance right between work, rest and play?

Choosing activities - Follow your son or daughter’s lead when

Sensory Baby Play is for premobile babies where new-borns are introduced to the world around them. Following this is Play & Learn 2 where they learn to develop confidence in moving.

Play & Learn 3 focuses on walking skills and then in Play & Learn 4 vocabulary is introduced.

Play & Learn 5 starts to stretch the imagination through creative play and this is developed further in Play & Learn 6 which is all about exploring your imagination. For more details call 07990 761259 or email cheam@gymboree-uk.com

deciding which classes to sign up for – most kids have a strong feel for what appeals to them. That said, it’s also worth pointing them towards something you think they might benefit from, such as drama sessions for a shy child. Making children take up an activity that they really don’t feel good about can be counter-productive.

Encourage persistence - Some of us have flighty children who

get super-excited about an activity but within weeks, lose enthusiasm .Consider having a rule that your child does have to see the period you paid for out before they can give up – they may well change their mind back after a few weeks anyway!

How much is too much? - There’s no set answer about how many activities are optimal – it varies for each child. Some will get more tired than others and find just one or two classes suffice, others embrace a packed schedule of karate to clarinet without losing energy.

Needs change over time - Certainly, most reception-age children are exhausted enough from school for the first term or so, without lengthening their day by adding extra activities. Keep things simple at this stage. Older primary children have a decent opportunity to learn a few different skills and enjoy classes, whereas once they start secondary, longer commutes, more homework and exam pressures may mean reining things in.

Relaxation time is vital too - Watch out for activity over scheduling – quiet contemplation and scope to be creative and relax is just as important as that second musical instrument or third sport. If your child doesn’t have space to just play and chill out, consider cutting back.

Jo Jingles Jo Jingles provides fun singing and movement classes which teach children to play percussion instruments expressively, sing songs and find the rhythm to move and dance. Age-specific classes are tailor-made to engage even the youngest children.

Classes encourage hand-eye co-ordination, and help children learn social skills and make friends, as well as encouraging their physical, mental and emotional development. Children play two age-specific percussion instruments each week. No membership fees! FREE Trial!

Viv Hunt -Cobham, Epsom & Fetcham nr Leatherhead, 07751 438943. Lorraine Byrant Banstead and Sutton, 07376 381 617. www.jojingles.com MAD Academy Croydon MAD Academy classes for preschool children are free spirited and bursting with energy and fun! Our classes are funky and physical, and packed full of singing, dancing, music, games, props and, of course, laughter!

Classes are also educational, helping children develop key skills aligned to the government’s Early Years Learning Framework. We harness the power of music and

14 Families London Surrey Borders

movement to teach a whole range of skills and knowledge, from letters to numbers, from shapes to weather. But it’s not like traditional learning! So come along and bring a little MADness to your week. For more information call Alison Storey on 020 8407 1726.

Mini Monkey Croydon & Beckenham Mini Monkey Gym’s popular soft play gym classes combine active play, sensory and music to enhance young children’s all round development. The professionally developed programme has been designed to help babies, toddlers and young children develop their physical skills and get their bodies moving!

Movement in babies and toddlers is crucial to stimulating brain development and encouraging the creation of those all important neural connections in the first few years. Mini Monkey Gym gives you and your child the opportunity to enjoy lots of fun and sensory movement experiences together which promote this important development. Classes in Sanderstead, Coulsdon and Beckenham. Please visit www. minimonkeygym.co.uk for more information

Monkey Music Award-winning Monkey Music introduces babies and young children to music in a way they understand and enjoy, it’s brilliant fun for children and adults too!

Our unique four-stage curriculum ensures that classes are a “good fit” for pre-schoolers - whether this is intriguing sounds for a 3-month old baby, moving and shaking for toddlers, or taking the limelight and learning to read music for a 4-year-old.

Dorking, Fetcham, Walton on the Hill, Ashtead and South Epsom familiesonline.co.uk

Oxygen Freejumping Little O’s Oxygen Freejumping, the ultimate trampoline park brand new to Croydon, is ready to get your toddlers tumbling with their exclusive sessions for ages 5 and under.

Little O’s is a special toddler session reserved for 5 year olds and under & their parents or guardians. Toddler trampolining is a great way to teach children the joy of movement and bouncing in a safe and fun environment.

Visit oxygenfreejumping.co.uk to book. Located in The Colonnades, Purley Way, Croydon. CR0 4RQ

Rugbytots Ltd Rugbytots dynamic weekly sessions enable boys and girls aged 2-7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment. The structured play sessions take children on a journey of sporting imagination, with engaging and energetic coaches supporting them every step of the way, whilst teaching how to catch, pass, kick, run with the ball and play as part of a team.

By delivering their specifically designed programme for each age group with energy, enthusiasm and excitement, Rugbytots create an atmosphere in the class that is totally unique and engaging for parents and children alike. Classes are available all over Surrey and surrounding areas. To find out more visit www.rugbytots.co.uk or call 0345 313 3242.

Sports Atlantis Swim School Ltd Atlantis Swim School have been teaching in the surrounding area since 1998 and the majority of people come to from recommendations. They have a programme where they can work familiesonline.co.uk

towards set goals and can monitor the children’s progress. Lessons concentrate on stroke technique and water skills and Atlantis Swim have a great team to teach this.

For more information, call 0208 335 3536 Croydon High Sports Club, coaching for kids Croydon High Sports Club offers swimming lessons in our 25-metre indoor pool plus badminton and tennis. They also have a Gymnastics club on site Saturdays and Sundays plus a wide range of group exercise classes and swim lessons for grown-ups!

S 17 END 20 ER ER OFTF OCTOB S 31

-Tina Parsons and Emma Playle 0208 432 0811 Banstead, Ewell, Claygate and Esher - Dinah Nightingale, 01932 223309.

£10 OFF LESSONS AND COURSES...

NOW THAT’S BETTER.

Morning sessions £18 per day or £79 per week. All day sessions £29 per day or £125 per week. For more information, call on 0208 657 9313

GLL – Better for You Staying focused and keeping active can be a challenge for juniors, but with so much on offer, Better are determined to cater to everyone’s needs. They have lessons and courses operating in 31 centres across 12 boroughs in West London and surrounding counties; it’s the perfect way to get juniors started on their journey and to keep them motivated.

Book now online at www.better.org. uk/families and type in the code FAMILIES for a chance to have £10 off upfront costs on all lessons and courses and join the 45,000 pupils that are enjoying all we have to offer. What are you waiting for?

To find out your local Better facility visit www.better.org.uk/families MultiSports Sutton & Cheam MultiSports is about introducing children aged 4 - 16 to a wide range of sport orientated activities, harvesting potential no matter how great or small, a developing life skills such as confidence, personal achievement and teamwork.

Classes take place on Saturdays at Nonsuch High School. For more information, call 01293 774051.

Book any junior lesson or course online before 31st October 2017 and you’ll receive £10 off when you enter promotional code FAMILIES at the checkout.

For a list of all participating Better centres visit better.org.uk/families

Terms & Conditions: The £10 discount is only available on junior lessons and courses when you join online and quote the relevant promo code. Offer is valid until 31st October 2017. Full terms and conditions are available at better.org.uk/terms. Better is a registered trademark and trading name of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise and registered society under the Co-operative & Community Benefit & Societies Act 2014 registration no. 27793R. Registered office: Middlegate House, The Royal Arsenal, London, SE18 6SX. Inland Revenue Charity no: XR43398

Families London Surrey Borders 15

and singing specially formulated to bring out every child’s true potential. Classes are kept small to ensure lots of individual attention.

Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions for newcomers.

Performing Arts

Autumn Term Dates - Saturday 2nd September - Sunday 17th December 2017.

BRIT Kids BRIT kids are a Saturday school with a difference! Why? ‘We are proud to be part of The BRIT School, a famous school for Performing and Creative arts. This means our classes are taught in specialist studios and theatres and use specialist equipment. Be it state of the art Music Production suits, Screen printing rooms, Radio suites, green rooms or professional Theatres, we are lucky to have it all at our fingertips.

Alongside this, we offer a large array of subjects to choose from and being set up as a specialist school we can offer these classes at a very competitive rate.

1994, their ‘Self-Development Through Drama’ curriculum is simply second to none.

Teaching Voice, Movement and Improvisation skills amongst other Theatre Arts, Helen O’Grady aim is to build confidence and selfesteem and the best bit is that it is both AFFORDABLE and FUN! Children between 5 – 17 years will benefit from their exciting programme, delivered by qualified and DSB approved teachers.

With 14 studios throughout the Croydon and Surrey area there is bound to be a studio near you. If you want to ‘SET YOUR CHILD UP FOR LIFE’ call 020 8667 9812. We are enrolling now!

Whatever your reason for joining us – a creative outlet, to meet new friends, to be part of something – there are plenty of diverse classes to choose from. We will expect you to work hard, we will expect you to be challenged, and we will expect you to enjoy every minute of the journey!’, Tobi Deeson, BRIT Kids Director.

For more information on their exiting range of classes visit www.brit.croydon.sch.uk/britkids Curtain Up Based in Sanderstead, Curtain Up are a drama company teaching speech & drama to children, young adults and adults.

They run weekend and afterschool classes for groups and individuals for all ages 5- 18 years, and adults, at all levels.

During drama classes students are prepared for one of the following LAMDA exams: Acting, Speaking Verse & Prose and Public Speaking.

Classes involve a wide range of speech and drama activities, such as acting games, improvisation, working with published texts, breathing exercises, physical games, learning lines and sight reading.

16 Families London Surrey Borders

Spotlights Theatre School Fun performing arts classes from age 4 to 18. Expert tuition in drama, dance and singing offering children the opportunity to perform regularly in front of an audience to build their confidence.

Casting agency (included with membership) offers opportunities to audition for film, TV, theatre and commercials.

New classes now available in Orpington on Saturday mornings and West Wickham on Saturday afternoons.

Jigsaw Performing Arts Jigsaw Performing Arts is dedicated to developing performance skills, promoting self-expression and building confidence. Classes are split into appropriate age groups.

Mitcham: 020 8688 3409 Mitcham@jigsaw-arts.co.uk Sutton: 020 8688 3409 Sutton@ jigsaw-arts.co.uk Croydon: 0208 447 4530 Croydon@jigsaw-arts.co.uk All new students are invited to join us for a two-week trial to see if Jigsaw Performing Arts is right for them! To find out more or to book your two-week trial call 020 8688 3409.

Visit www.curtainupdrama.co.uk Helen O’Grady Drama – Building your child’s confidence, selfesteem and communication skills It works! Established here since

Nearest Class to you are in Purley and Sutton. Call 020 7255 9120 or email enquiries@perform.org.uk or visit: www.perform.org.uk

Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes Confidence building fun for 4-12s.

A unique mix of drama, dance

For more information, or to book a class contact 020 8460 5711

is small to allow teachers and their assistants to give each child support and attention.

Main Stages classes are split in three age appropriate groups, where young people aged 6-18 years old learn new skills in each of the complementary Musical Theatre disciplines of singing, dancing & drama. Classes are three hours long each week.

Early Stages classes (90 minutes each week) run alongside the main Stagecoach schools, where children aged 4-6 years learn skills in each of the three Musical Theatre disciplines of singing, dancing & drama, so it is an easy step when it is time to transfer to the next stage.

Their Mini Stages classes (45 minutes) will spark your child’s creativity and help improve literacy, numeracy, communication and social skills. Children aged 2 -4 will explore a world of imagination through songs, stories and much, much more.

Stagecoach Epsom 01372 730363 www.stagecoach.co.uk/epsom Stagecoach Sutton 01372 740 284 www.stagecoach.co.uk/sutton Stagecoach Merton Park, Mitcham & Tooting 02089 423 502 www.stagecoach.co.uk/tooting

Stagecoach Stagecoach Performing Arts teach children and teenagers how to sing, dance and act, not only to perform on stage but also, more importantly, to perform better in life.

Suitable for a range of abilities, Stagecoach offers the chance for kids to pursue a career in the performing arts or simply learn some new skills to share with family and friends.

Students are encouraged to take ‘safe risks’ through rehearsals and performance, which brings out a willingness to take on new challenges.

Classes usually run for 12 weeks during the school term. Each class

Stagecoach Coulsdon 0345 078 0805 www.stagecoach.co.uk/coulsdon Stagecoach Shirley 020 8949 1116 www.stagecoach.co.uk/shirley Stagecoach Croydon 0845 265 7083 www.stagecoach.co.uk/croydon Stagecoach Cheam 02087734242 www.stagecoach.co.uk/cheam

Would you like to advertise your business with us?

Book Today

Call 01923 775 680 or email editor@families-lsb.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

5 benefits of arts and crafts for your child Arts and crafts can often be used by busy parents as an easy form of entertainment for creative children, but arty activities should not be dismissed as a last resort indoors activity for children on rainy days. Arts and crafts are not only a great hobby, but can significantly impact learning in a positive way, and can improve your child’s bilateral coordination in addition to being a great social activity and self-esteem booster. Charlotte Baldwin, operations manager at IQ cards, goes through 5 of the top benefits of arts and craft.

Fine Motor Coordination Whilst keeping between the lines when colouring can be aesthetically pleasing, it also works wonders for your child’s fine motor coordination skills, which involves the synchronization between small muscles and movements in hands and fingers with thought processes in the brain. Tasks such as drawing, colouring in shapes and cutting, all help children progress these skills by making them focus and coordinate between thoughts and physical actions.

Self Regulation & Organization Rome wasn’t build in a day, and often crafts can’t be completed in 24 hours, either.

Activities such as papier mache and painting involve a lot of waiting time before being able to proceed with new layers. Waiting for projects to be complete before moving onto the next stage will teach your child about patience,

just as multitasking during the meantime will help develop time management and organization skills. Self regulation is all about knowing which present actions will affect your long term interests.

Bilateral Coordination It’s often easy for adults to take skills such as bilateral coordination for granted, but for growing children, these early stages are a crucial time for improving and developing skills that will be needed for everyday tasks such as writing and typing in everyday life. Bilateral coordination involves using both hands at once to perform a task, so, for example, cutting out shapes, or sewing fabric.

Social Skills Arts and Crafts is a sociable activity: from painting parties to crafts clubs, arts & crafts will open up a new world of social interaction

for your child. Learning to work around others and to share are invaluable lessons for your child to take along with them through education and future work life.

Self-Esteem Support from parents and peers can often be very encouraging for children embracing their creative streak. Praising your child for their arts & crafts efforts can be done verbally or even by hanging up their artwork on the fridge or walls, which will build their confidence. Your child’s creative talents should be rewarded consistently to boost their self esteem.

About Charlotte Baldwin: Charlotte Baldwin is the operations manager at IQ cards and understands the importance of arts and crafts. IQ cards is a fundraising company that provide schools and establishments with the necessary tools to fundraise via selling high-quality and unique gifts designed by pupils.

Bonfire Craft Ideas

Edible Child Safe Sparklers

Kids Fireworks Craft Using a Fork

Fireworks Straw Painting

Scratch Art Fire Works

Ingredients

Materials

Material

Material

Bread sticks / Wafer sticks Chocolate Cake sprinkles Hundreds and thousands

Fork White paper Coloured paint You could also use black paper and add white paint Glitter PVA glue

Watercolour paints / Food colouring Water Paintbrush Straw Watercolour paper

Paper Crayons or oil pastels Black tempura or acrylic paint Washing up liquid Foam applicator (you could use a paint brush)

Instructions

Instructions

Wet your watercolours and make a big dollop on the page.

Colour in you sheets of paper with crayons, making them as colourful as possible.

Instructions Melt the chocolate and add some honey to make sure it does not set too fast Cover the bread stick with some chocolate and decorate Leave them to set

Instructions Choose your first colour of paint Dip the bottom of the fork into paint and, going around in circles press down onto the paper

Let the paint pool a bit.

Wipe off the fork and dip it into your next colour

You’ll see it start to spread Speckle - put paint on the brush and rub your finger over the end of the bristles, causing the paint to fleck all over your paper (Optional)

Repeat over the top of the first colour with the fork.

Pattern with PVA glue and cover with Glitter (Optional)

familiesonline.co.uk

Using a straw, blow on the paint.

Mix the black paint with a squirt of washing up liquid and use the applicator to colour over the crayon.

Leave to dry and apply a second coat.

Once dry, get creative creating your own fire work display

Families London Surrey Borders 17

What’s On

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

Until Sun 29 Oct The Robot Zoo Horniman Museum and Gardens, SE23 3PQ How do chameleons change colour?

What makes grasshoppers leap so high? Is a giant squid jet-propelled?

Answer these questions and more at The Robot Zoo, where amazing animals are recreated in robot form to reveal their inner workings. Child £4.40; Adult £7.70: Family (2 adults, 2 children) £18.70.

From 5 – 31 Sep daily 10am-5pm East Surrey Sculpture Exhibition Ightham Mote, Kent TN15 0NT Visitors to Ightham Mote in September can see over 70 sculptures, created by the East Surrey Sculptors. House opens 11am.

Wed 6 Sep and 4 Oct, 2.30pm–4pm Winkworth’s Wednesday Walk Winkworth Arboretum, GU8 4AD Meet at the kiosk for a seasonal guided walk around the Arboretum. NAA. Thu 7, 14, 21, 28 Sep Bat Walks WWT London Wetland Centre, SW13 9WT Our bat walks give you the chance to see these amazing flying mammals and their astonishing aerial acrobatics.

Adults and children 10 +. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Times vary with sunset. £10. BE Fri 8 Sep, 7.15 – 9.30pm Bat Walk Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG Join the Surrey Bat Group for an evening bat walk and use bat detectors to hear the sounds they make as they fly. BE Sat 9 Sept Heritage Open Day Polesden Lacey, RH5 6BD Visit for free in celebration of Polesden Lacey’s place in our country’s heritage.

Fri 8 Sep – Thurs 30 Nov Beer to Champagne: the rise of a sparkling socialite Polesden Lacey, RH5 6BD Meet Maggie’s men – her father, the man who made her rich; her husband, the man who made her popular; and the king, the friend who assured her place in society Sat 9 Sep, 10am – 6pm Heritage Open Day Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG Free entry to the Garden as part of the national Heritage Open Day. Belvedere Tower open from 2pm-4pm Sat 9 Sep, 10am−5.30pm Heritage Open Day Winkworth Arboretum, GU8 4AD The Arboretum is open for England’s biggest heritage festival and is free to explore.

18 Families London Surrey Borders

Sat 9 Sep & 21 Oct, 3pm-5pm Ashtead Mum2Mum Market Nearly New Sale Ashtead Peace Memorial Hall, KT21 2BE All sorts for the little ones. £2 Sat 9 Sept, 1pm - 2.30pm Bourne Hall Museum Kids Club - The Worst Jobs in Tudor Times Bourne Hall Museum, KT17 1UF A Gentleman Usher from Henry VIII’s Palace of Nonsuch pays a visit to the village looking for workers. He needs a gong farmer, a food taster, a spit boy, a groom of the stool, and a wool dyer. If you really want to get ahead, become an executioner! £5.

Sun 10, Sat 16, Sun 24 and Sat 30 Sept, & Sun 8, Sat 14 Oct, 11am-1pm Historic Scenic Walk Ham House and Garden, TW10 7RS Free guided walk from Richmond Station to Ham House. Meet inside station entrance.

Sat 16- Sat 30 Sept Vegetable Ham – tastes of late summer Ham House and Garden, TW10 7RS We will be harvesting the vegetable and fruit bounty from our large, walled kitchen garden, from Uchi Kuri squashes to Glen Magna raspberries.

Come and try our seasonal dishes in the Orangery Café, pick your own from our family tasting garden and take home a Ham Vegetable bag. NAA. Sun 17 Sep, 11am-4pm Dog Show Hatchlands Park, GU4 7RT Fun and games with your four-legged friend. £2 per class.

Sun 17 Sep, 11am–12.30pm The Story of Ankerwycke Runnymede, Windsor, SL4 2JL (Sat Nav: TW20 0AE) Join a guide to learn how Ankerwycke’s ancient landscape has changed throughout time. Adult £6, child £3. BE Sun 17 Sep, 11.30am - 4.30pm The Epsom Family Fun Day Hook Road Arena KT10 8QG A community family fun day with local charities, community groups and businesses running affordable family games and entertainment. £2 in advance. £4 at the gate (under 12s Free) Sun 17 Sep, 10.30am – 4.30pm Birds of prey day Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG An opportunity to see a wide variety of birds of prey including eagles, hawks, falcons and owls in the setting of an 18th century landscape garden. NAA. BE Mon 18 Sep, doors open 10am Bach to Baby Family Concert St. Mildred’s, Bingham Road, CR0 7EB Bach to Baby is the acclaimed concert series for the whole family to enjoy together. Flight of the Nimble Keys, Featuring Martin Cousin, piano.

Tues 19 Sep, 11am – 12.30pm Tuesday Tree Walk Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG Discover a twigful of garden history and trunkloads of interesting facts about our beautiful trees.

NAA. BE Sat 23 Sep, 3 – 4.30pm NCT Nearly New Sale Cheam St Andrew’s Church, Northey Avenue, SM2 7HF Top quality baby and children’s clothes and equipment at bargain prices. £1.

Fri 29 Sep and 27 Oct, 11am–12.30pm Exploring the Arboretum Winkworth Arboretum, GU8 4AD Meet at the kiosk for a guided walk around the Arboretum.. NAA Sat 30 Sep Bear Grylls Survival Race The Children’s Trust Battle the elements of the Desert, Arctic, Jungle, and Mountain through our BG bespoke Obstacles and Survival Challenges - testing your ability to endure a range of real-world survival scenarios.

Sat 30 Sept – Sun 1 Oct, 11am – 4pm Apple Day Weekend Morden Hall Park , SM4 5JD Celebrate the humble apple and join us in tasting local Merton varieties of apples. We’ll also be pressing apples and have apple themed crafts and activities for the kids. Free.

Sat 30 Sep – Sun 1 Oct, 11am – 4pm Apple & Orchard Weekend Ightham Mote, Kent TN15 0NT There will also be a wide range of apple related crafts and gifts for sale from local suppliers and families can take advantage of a special Apple Trail around the garden!

Sun 1 Oct, 10am–5.30pm National Gardens Scheme day Winkworth Arboretum, GU8 4AD The Arboretum is open in support of the National Gardens Scheme. Free guided walk with garden team at 2pm.

Sat 1 - Sat 29 Oct Autumn Colour Trail Hever Castle and Gardens As the gardens turn vibrant shades of red, pink and gold and the leaves tumble from the trees, it’s the perfect time to head to the romantic castle in Kent for a walk with the family.

Sat 7 & Sun 29 Oct, 2pm Autumn colour at Claremont Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG Meet at the Kiosk and enjoy a guided afternoon walk around Claremont looking at the trees in their autumn colours. NAA Sat 7 Oct, 1pm - 2.30pm Bourne Hall Museum Kids Club Good King, Bad King and Sad King Bourne Hall Museum, KT17 1UF We take a close look at the lives of the great medieval kings and their times and try and discover if they were good, bad or just plain sad! £5 Sun 8 Oct, 10.30am–12noon Fungi Photo Adventure Winkworth Arboretum, GU8 4AD Search the Arboretum with our guide for fantastic fungi photo opportunities.

NAA. BE

Sun 8 Oct, 10.00am – 6 pm Autumn glory National Gardens Scheme day Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG The garden is open in support of the National Gardens Scheme. Free guided walk at 2pm with a member of the gardening tea. NAA Thurs 12 Oct, 10.30am – 3.30pm The Homewood Autumn garden open day Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG See the Homewood garden in its full autumnal splendour. Minibus will operate a shuttle service between Claremont & The Homewood. All visitors must arrive via this minibus service.

Sat 14 Oct–Sun 29 Oct, 10.30am– 3.30pm Charter of the Forest trail Runnymede, Windsor, SL4 2JL (SatNav: TW20 0AE) Learn about the “other Magna Carta” as you explore Runnymede’s legendary landscape. 50p per trail Sat 14 Oct, 2-4pm Epsom Mum 2 Mum Market Nearly New Sale Ruxley Church Hall, Ruxley Lane, KT19 0JG Pop up market of nearly-new baby, kids’ and maternity goods. £2 Sun 15 Oct, 7am–9am Dawn Photo Walk Winkworth Arboretum, GU8 4AD BE. Mon 16 Oct, doors open 10am Bach to Baby Family Concert St. Mildred’s, Bingham Road, CR0 7EB Bach to Baby is the acclaimed concert series for the whole family to enjoy together

Half Term Events Near You

Get

2 for 1

entry

every Back to School with a weekday Bounce!

The Summer holidays may be over for another year, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop! Oxygen Freejumping, Croydon’s favourite trampoline park, is here to ensure the kids still have a place to let off steam and jump for joy this term. Explore over 100 connected trampolines and 12 unique jumping zones, including the awesome aeroball, giant airbag cushion and mega foam pit!

Parents will love it too, even if they’re not having a bounce! The cafe overlooks the entire trampoline park, and serves Lavazza coffee, wine, beer and snacks. Plus, exclusively for the new school term, get 2 for 1 entry every weekday after school when you book online using promo code FRIENDS241.

Valid 4pm-6pm only. Ends 30 Nov 2017.

Located in The Colonnades Leisure Park, Croydon CR0 4RQ. Book online at oxygenfreejumping.co.uk. familiesonline.co.uk

Bocketts Farm Park 21st - 29th Oct 2017

WITCHES &

WIZARDS WEEK

Selected Dates 7th - 31st October

ENJOY A SPOOKTACULAR DAY OUT!

Halloween Circus

Creepy Maze

£8

Hundreds of pumpkins!

Tickets £2

per person Special offer Group of 4

Reptile Roadshow!

Don’t Miss… Animal Handling, Goat Milking, Tractor Rides, Pony Rides, Go-Karting and Pig racing EVERYDAY!

Creepy crafts!

per person

D AR AW WI NN ING !

www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

£28

Situated in Leatherhead, Surrey. 5 minutes from J9 M25.

Roll up, roll up for Cirque Normandie’s A spine-tingling attraction for those spooktacular Halloween circus! who like the ‘scream’ in Halloween!

Spooky Zoo

WHATEVER THE WE ATHER!

Wizards & Witches Quiz Trail!

Proudly supporting

PLUS: A HEAT INDOOR PLAYBAED RN! PLENTY OF FUN,

Monster Meals

#

SPECIAL

OFFER

£1 OFF full price farm entry per person* Valid from 1st September - 20th October 2017.

Only with this voucher (*maximum 5 people).

FM

£4.95

£3.50

per child

(allows 2 adults per ticket*)

per child

Served between

£2.50

11am - 4pm Monday - Saturday 11am - 3pm on Sundays

per adult

An exciting opportunity to encounter Why not join us for some terrifyingly an assortment of exotic creatures. good, meal time treats. *additional adults 50p each

BOOK NOW: www.chessingtongardencentre.co.uk

Celebrate the season of crunchy leaves with half-term events at Claremont Landscape Garden, Hatchlands Park, Morden Hall Park, Polesden Lacey, River Wey and Winkworth Arboretum #nationaltrust

nationaltrust.org.uk

© National Trust 2017. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846.

Photography © National Trust Images\Arnhel de Serra.

Families London Surrey Borders 19

familiesonline.co.uk 1741-Halloween-2017-87x130-Families-AW.indd 1

31/07/2017 12:14

Sat 21 Oct, 10am to 12noon Bumps 2 Babies Nearly New Sale Banstead Banstead Community Hall, Park Road, SM7 3AJ Some great bargains for mums to be and already mums. £1

Mon 23 - Sun 29 Oct, 11am-4pm Awesome Autumn Hatchlands Park, GU4 7RT Discover fun Autumn facts on the Autumn Trail through the parkland.

Included in admission.

Sat 21 Oct, 2.30 – 4.30pm Ewell Horticultural Association Late Autumn Show Blenheim School, Longmead Road, Epsom KT19 9BH Displays of autumn flowers, home grown vegetables, cookery, handicrafts, photography and floral art plus plants, bulbs and garden sundries for sale.

Free Sat 21 Oct, 10.30am–12.30pm Fungi foray Winkworth Arboretum, GU8 4AD Seasonal fungi foray and learn how to identify the many different types of fungi growing around the Arboretum.

NAA.BE Sat 21 – Sun 29 Oct Guess Who? WWT London Wetland Centre, SW13 9WT Join us at half term to play Guess Who? To win, use your ID skills and powers of observation to guess which wetland animal your partner has selected.

Sat 21 – Tues 31 Oct Toto’s return to Oz – half term trail Polesden Lacey, RH5 6BD Are you brave enough to join Toto and his friends as they venture back through Oz to find his magic ruby collar? £3 per hero Mon 23– Fri 27 Oct, 10.30am–4.30pm Wild Learning Winkworth Arboretum, GU8 4AD Half-term adventure holiday club. Have fun and explore the woods with Wild Learning. For more details, costs and to book, visit www.wild–learning.net Mon 23 – Fri 27 Oct, 10.30am– 4.30pm Wild Learning Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG Outdoor holiday club for children. Learn fun new things in the fresh air.

For more details, costs and to book, go online at www.wild-learning.net Mon 23 Oct, 10am-12noon or 1.30pm3.30pm A Prickle of Hedgehogs Gatton Park, Redhill, RH2 0TW Discover more about these fascinating mammals and join in with hedgehog crafts and activities. 4 – 7yrs, £7.50 per child. BE.

Tue 24 Oct, 1.30–2pm What King John did for us Runnymede, Windsor, SL4 2JL (SatNav: TW20 0AE Learn about the notorious King John in this free family talk.

Wed 25 Oct, 11am Honeywood Mini Explorers -The World of Beatrix Potter Honeywood Museum, SM5 3NX Aimed at children aged 6-10 years. The children will create a mini Peter Rabbit Garden, listen to the Tale of Miss Tiggy Winkle and make a collage of Squirrel Nutkin – Free. BE Wed 25 and Fri 27 Oct, 10am-11.30am or 1.30pm-3pm Trails and Tales Gatton Park, Redhill, RH2 0TW Enjoy the story of ‘Funny Bones’ and go for a walk around the park to bring the story to life. Return to create artwork linked to the story. 2-4yrs, £7.50 per child. BE. Thurs 26 Oct, 9.30- 4pm Ceramics Workshop Sutton College, SM1 1EA A unique opportunity to create your own ceramic sculpture in our fantastic specialist pottery studio.

Thurs 26 - Sat 28 Oct. 10am start Banstead Art Group Annual Exhibition The Community Hall, Park Road, SM7 3AJ Annual exhibition of works from local artists.

Saturday 28th October, 12noon Banstead Autumn Foraging Course with WildFoodUK The Woodman, Woodmansterne St, SM7 3NL This course is a simple foraging walk where we hope to be able to identify a selection of edible Spring plants, flowers and edible mushrooms.

Sun 29 Oct 10.30am – 12.30pm Fungi foray Claremont Landscape Garden, KT10 9JG Join popular fungi expert Sara Shepley for a seasonal Fungi walk and learn how to identify the many different types of fungi growing around the garden.

NAA plus £9 Adult, £4.50 child.

BRIT Kids

20

Families London Surrey Borders

Half Term Halloween Spooktacular Morden Hall Park Morden Hall Road, SM4 5JD Mon 23 – Fri 27 Oct, 11am – 4pm October Half-Term Join a pumpkin trail in the park and make pumpkin and harvest themed crafts to take home.

Bring along your own pumpkin and we’ll lend you all the kit to carve it. £4, free with your own pumpkin.

Winkworth Arboretum Hascombe Road, GU8 4AD Sat 21 Oct–Sun 29 Oct Happy Hallowe’en Have fun with our spooky trail, available every day throughout the week from the kiosk. Free entry for children in Hallowe’en costume + 50p for trail Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher, KT10 9JG Mon 24 – Thu 27 Oct 11am – 1pm Halloween half-term activities A spooky trail available throughout the week, daily from the kiosk.

Fri 27 Oct, 11am – 1pm Hallowe’en Craft Workshops & Pumpkin carving (please bring your own pumpkin) NAA, plus additional charge for trail, crafts and pumpkin carving.

Free entry to the garden for children dressed in Hallowe’en costume Ham House and Garden Ham Street, Ham, TW10 7RS Sat 21 to Sun 29 Oct, 10am-5pm Hallowe’en hocus pocus: ghoulish ghosts and wicked witches Take part in our witch hunt, discover ghostly goings on and ways to ward off witches. There’s spooky storytelling and

eerie art. NAA Mon 23 to Fri 27 Oct, 5-6pm Terrible Terror Tours Discover spooky goings on ghostly tours in the dark; find out about our resident ghost dog and other spooky sightings! £10 includes ghostly goodies. NAA. Sat 21 – Sun 29 Oct, 10am - 5pm Half-term family fun Ightham Mote, Kent TN15 0NT Themed spider trail around the grounds – and come and see our Pumpkin patch!

With ghoulish crafts on Thurs 26 Sat 21 – Sun 29 Oct October Half Term- Creepy Creatures RHS Gardens Wisley, GU23 6QB Discover all there is to know about Creepy Creatures this half term with crafts, planting seeds, trail and more.

Mon 23 & Tues 24 Oct, 11am-2pm Halloween Trail Sutton Ecology Centre, SM5 3NY Follow the Halloween Trail and find the tree spirits along the way. Solve their riddles to make a magic spell, then make a wand to take home. £4 Mon 23 Oct – Fri 27 Oct Halloween Activity week at Birdworld Birdworld, Holt Pound, Farnham, GU10 4LD Feel your hair stand on end and a shiver down your spine as you walk through the creepy corridors of Birdworld’s unique Halloween Grotto.

Mon 23 Oct, 9.30am – 4pm Creepy Clay & Crafts

BRIT Kids at

At BRIT Kids, what do we do? ...More than you can imagine!

Saturday Courses at The BRIT School

Theatre

Performing and Creative Arts classes for 8–15 year olds

Photography

Dance Singing Street Dance

Fashion and Textiles Film Making Music Production Radio

Art Club Printmaking & Illustration Computer Club AEN in collaboration with

CELEBRATING 15 YEARS

Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy

brit.croydon.sch.uk/BRITKids

020 8665 5242

familiesonline.co.uk

Have a Spooktacular time at Chessington Garden Centre Halloween is back and bigger than ever.

Dare you enter Chessington’s Creepy Maze, full of spooky surprises and perilous thrills, can you escape the ‘undead’ ends before it’s too late.

Cirque Normandies spectacular Selected dates- 7th – 31st October Halloween Circus is back with an all new show for 2017, hosted in a Halloween themed, heated big top, this brand new adventure starring bats, a werewolf, comedy policemen, witches and more is sure to entertain the whole family.

Our amazing Spooky Zoo event is back for a fourth fantastic year, take this opportunity to get up close to a variety of exotic reptiles whilst learning all about them from the experts on hand.

Each interactive session allows visitors a unique chance to handle and have their photo taken with a fantastic array of creatures. Not to be missed!

New for this year, our Sedum Restaurant are serving up a monstrous meal time treat with some terrifyingly good dishes, enjoy delights including Witches Fingers and Zombie Brains whilst being entertained by Count Dracula himself with some fiendishly fun songs and games. Book your tickets online. www.chessingtongardencentre.co.uk

Wed 25 Oct, 9.30- 4pm Hair Raising Performing Arts Sutton College, SM1 1EA Calling all Uncle Festers & Morticias!

Dance, sing & act all day at this Halloween workshop with Star Steppers Performing Arts Ltd. Wed 25 Oct, 11am and 2pm Hobgoblin Children’s Theatre… The Spookiest Fairy Tale Ever Told Denbies wine Estate, RH5 6AA One of the UK’s best loved touring theatre companies. £7.50 per child. Accompanying adults free of charge Wed 25 Oct - Sun 29 Scream in the Museum Honeywood Museum, SM5 3NX Prepare for Halloween with a free spooky drop in craft.Gather evidence to prove ‘WHO DID IT’! by following our ‘WHO DID IT’ trail! Free Thurs 26 Oct, 9.30- 4pm ‘Orrible Organs – Science Workshop Sutton College, SM1 1EA Let Brainwave Science tell you all about the digestive system – from entry…to errie exit!

Fri 27 Oct 3pm – 4pm Spooky Pumpkin Afternoon Honeywood Museum, SM5 3NX Turn your boring pumpkin into something terrifyingly beautiful with our paint, glitter and ghoulish sequins, make Ghostly Pictures and listen to our Halloween themed story. Come dressed up to get your sweets! (pumpkin included) BE

Sutton College, SM1 1EA Haunting Halloween masks, spiders, ghosts and more at this one day creepy creative workshop.

Tues 24 Oct, 9.30- 4pm Circus Skills Sutton College, SM1 1EA Circus excitement brought to life, not just for the spectator! Juggling, diabolo, plate spinning, giant bubbles & more! familiesonline.co.uk

Sat 28 - Sun 29 Oct, 10.30am-4.30pm Horniman Halloween Fair 100 London Rd, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ Join in for some fiendish fun at the Horniman’s annual Halloween Fair. Enjoy the amazing arts and crafts market and fabulous food stalls, set off on our Halloween trail, meet some creepy creatures, have your face painted and get creative at our family craft activities.

Come dressed in your spookiest costume. Free

Sat 21-Sun 29 Oct Halloween at Hever Castle, Kent, TN8 7NG Prepare to be spooked this Halloween at Hever Castle & Gardens. Meet Viscous Vampire and his Goblin friend in the Creepy Crypt and hear terrifying tales of vampires. Follow the eerie Halloween trail, help ward off vampires with a spooky activity and sink your teeth into a sweet treat at the cupcake decorating workshop.

With prizes for the best creepy costumes, a visit to Hever Castle is sure to be fangtastic fun for all the family. www.hevercastle.co.uk Sun 29 Oct, 3pm Halloween event Haling Grove, 28A Blenheim Cres, CR2 6BN Annual Halloween event, children arrive in fancy dress and bring carved pumpkins for a prize. Wild HUND Morris Dancers will be performing.

Refreshments available.

Sun 29th October, 1pm-4pm Spooky Spiders, Wizards & Witches Gatton Country Park Drop in for Halloween activities and

enjoy a trail around the grounds. Ideal for younger children. Adults £5 Children £2. No booking required Mon 30 Oct 7.30pm - 9pm Tues 31 Oct, 5pm - 6.30pm & 8pm 9.30pm Walk on the Dark Side Bourne Hall Museum, KT17 1UF Discover the darker side of Ewell’s history with a guided tour around its historic heart. Visit graveyards and crime scenes if you dare. £5.

Sat 21 – Sun 29 Oct Wizards and Witches Week Bocketts Farm, KT22 9BS This October half term at Bocketts Farm, enjoy a full packed programme of fun and freaky activities including a Quiz Trail, Creepy Craft Corner and Reptile Roadshow, where you’ll get the chance to meet awesome creepy crawlies up close!

Plus, they’ll be hundreds of pumpkins on sale and amazing magic shows from the Wizard magician! Daily activities include pony rides, tractor rides, animal handling and pig racing. The Animal Barns are also open, where you can meet and feed all of the friendly farm animals. With a large heated indoor play barn, trampolines, pedal go karts, young driver’s area and a jumping pillow, there’s plenty to keep the whole family amused, whatever the weather! www.bockettsfarm.co.uk Families London Surrey Borders 21

Sat 4 – Sun 5 Nov Why the whales came Gracie and Daniel have been forbidden to go near the mysterious Birdman, but clues intrigue them.

After being lost at sea and stranded on his tiny island, they begin to unravel the Birdman’s secrets to learn why the whales came to the island.

Fri 3 Nov 2017 Bonfire Coldarbour Village Coldharbour Cricket ground Torch-lit procession from The Plough followed by bonfire and fireworks at 8 pm www.surreycommunity.info/ coldharbour/calendar

Sat 4 Nov Horley Bonfire & Fireworks Horley Lions Club Beginning at 7 (bonfire) & 7.30 (fireworks) tickets £5 Adult £5 Child £3 Family £15 (2 adults + 3 children) www.horleylions.org.uk/fireworks

Sat 4 Nov Fireworks Wimbledon Park Wimbledon Park, Wimbledon, SM4 5DX Wimbledon Park boasts a spectacular setting for fireworks displays with clear, unobstructed views in beautiful parks www.merton.gov.uk/news-events/ events/fireworks

Sat 4 Nov, gates open 6pm Caterham Fireworks Westway Library, Caterham, Caterham, Surrey, CR3 5TP The fire will be lit and the display from 7.15pm and there’ll be plenty of hot food, mulled wine and beer on offer. Tickets £5 (on the gate) or £4 in advance www.caterhamroundtable.co.uk

Sat 4 Nov 2017 Epsom Fireworks Display and Funfair Hook Road Areana, Epsom Gates open at 5.30 pm, beginning at 7.30 pm - tickets £7.50 (on the gate) or £5 in advance www.epsomfireworks.com

Sun 5 Nov 2017 Fireworks Morden Park Morden Park, SM4 Morden Park boasts a spectacular setting for fireworks displays with clear, unobstructed views in beautiful parks www.merton.gov.uk/news-events/ events/fireworks

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Sat 4 Nov, gates open from 5pm Fireworks & Lingfield Park Lingfield Park Racecourse Enjoy the funfair and food, then soak up the atmosphere before the fireworks display. www.lingfieldpark.co.uk/events/ fireworks

Epsom Playhouse Ashley Avenue, Epsom, KT18 5AL 01372 742 555 www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk Sun 8 Oct, 12pm - 3.30pm Milkshake! Live “The Magic Story Book” Milkshake’s very own Milkshake!

Monkey and two Milkshake! presenters, this all singing, all dancing, musical masterpiece, will take audiences on a journey through the world’s favourite fairy tales.

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Families London Surrey Borders

Fri 20 – Sun 22 Oct Friends for All 8-year-old Lexi doesn’t make friends as easily as some. If only her school would allow a non-school uniform day then she could be herself, and find others like her.

Sat 2 Sep – Sun 5 Nov, 2pm – 4pm Rapunzel Many years ago a husband was caring for his ill and pregnant wife when a wicked witch offered him a deal. She said she would make his wife feel better if they gave her their unborn child. With his wife struggling to cope the husband had no choice but to accept the witches offer.

Peacock Theatre Portugal Street, Holborn, WC2A 2HT www.sadlerswells.com Thurs 23 Nov – Sun 31 Dec The Snowman Twinkling with festive spirit this stage show is now celebrating 20 consecutive years at The Peacock.

The Snowman is a magical mix of exquisite dancing, storytelling, splendid sets and music performed by a live orchestra.

Would you like to advertise your events with us in these pages?

To feature in our November/ December issue

CALL TODAY

on 01923 775 680 or email editor@families-lsb.co.uk

Sun 10 Sep – Sun 12 Nov, 2pm Hansel and Gretel at Merton Arts Space For over twenty years The Colour House Children’s Theatre in Merton

THE MAGICAL CHRISTMAS SHOW FOR ALL THE FAMILY

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

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

100c 75m G 0k B R A T I N0y

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Sat 30 Sep – Sun 1 Oct, 11.05am – 12.30pm – 2.35pm Handa’s Surprise Travel to Kenya and follow in Handa’s footsteps as she journeys to see her best friend Akeyo, in the next village.

Handa is taking 7 delicious fruits as a surprise – but 7 different animals have 7 very different ideas…

Sun 15 Oct, 11am Sunday Story Sessions : Moyses Dos Santos Bring all the family to enjoy some Sunday morning fun and laughter.

Stories and music from Brazil and South America-performed live on stage by world-class musicians.

The Colour House Theatre Merton Abbey Mills, London, SW19 2RD 0208 542 5511 www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk

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

Fri 6 –Sun 8 Oct In a Nutshell Little Acorn wakes up too early to find that it’s always winter, never spring.

In a quest to find breakfast for his friend Robin, Acorn embarks on an adventure that takes him to the edge of his world and beyond. A warm and touching story of beginnings and endings, goodbyes and hellos, told with puppets, music, and bits and pieces.

Fri 8 Sep, 1.30 – 4.30pm – Sat 9, Sun 10 Sep, 11am – 2pm The Tiger Who Came To Tea The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea.

Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger!

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Fri 3 Nov Kingston Firework Display Kingsmeadow Fitness and Athletic Centre , KT1 3PB, Gates open at 6.30pm. Display starts at 8.00pm – (Last entry at 7.45pm) www.kingstonrotaryclub.org.uk

New Wimbledon Theatre The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1QG 0870 060 6646 www.atgtickets.com/venues/newwimbledon-theatre

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Fireworks Displays

Abbey Mills has been delighting audiences with children’s shows, staging over 100 productions to more than 100,000 people the theatre has become known for its unique and intimate musical shows.

E WEST E

ET ONLY £115 FAMILY TImusCK t include at least 1 child 4 tickets,

Transaction fee applies.

Max £3

23 Nov - 31 Dec

020 7863 8222 peacocktheatre.com familiesonline.co.uk

Banstead, Ewell, Claygate and Esher E: banstead.claygate@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01932 223309 Dorking, Fetcham, Walton on the Hill, Ashtead and South Epsom E: leatherhead.dorking@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 020 8432 0811

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Our dynamic weekly play sessions enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment.

For more details, just call or email:

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0345 313 3242

enquiries@rugbytots.co.uk OK BO UR S YO CLAS AL Y! TRI ODA T

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The world’s favourite rugby play programme

Fun, active, soft playgym classes and parties for 0-5s throughout Croydon and surrounding areas.

Discover the wonderful playgym world of Mini Monkey Gym 07714 245999 www.minimonkeygym.co.uk

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2-FOR-1 ENTRY ON AFTER SCHOOL FREEJUMPS* EXPLORE: / OVER 100 TRAMPOLINES / THE GIANT AIRBAG / DODGEBALL COURTS / CLIMBING WALL & MUCH MORE!

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CROYDON 0845 265 7083 stagecoach.co.uk/croydon

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EPSOM 01372 730363 stagecoach.co.uk/epsom

COULSDON & CATERHAM 0345 078 0805 stagecoach.co.uk/coulsdon

SHIRLEY 020 8949 1116 stagecoach.co.uk/shirley

MERTON PARK & MITCHAM 020 8942 3502 stagecoach.co.uk/mertonpark

SUTTON 01372 740284 stagecoach.co.uk/sutton

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