CITY KIDS MAGAZINE AUTUMN 2016 ISSUE 6

FREE WHAT’S ON BOOKS EDUCATION STYLE ACTIVITIES

SUMMER 2015 ISSUE 5 FREE AUTUMN 2015 ISSUE 6

EDUCATION IN LONDON

ADVICE FOR PARENTS LOSING THE PLOT

BROADWAY’S BIGGEST SELLING MAGIC SPECTACULAR COMES TO LONDON With Special Guest JAMIE RAVEN from Britain’s Got Talent

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WELCOME

I

t doesn’t matter if you’re in the state or private sector, education in West London is a hot topic. Class sizes, catchment area, tutoring, competitive parenting, exam results and school fees are just some of the things stressing out parents as they

try to make decisions for their kids. In this issue, we tackle the issue head on, speaking to those in the know to see if the rumour mongering and anxiety has any basis. The advice from Toby Young, Latymer Upper and Chiswick School is worth noting.

We’re also going baking craze-ee with Junior Bake Off presenter and Jamie Oliver protegee, Aaron Craze; Beverley Turner tells us how to take control and Jo Pratt has some healthy snacks for school lunch boxes.

For those who don’t know, City Kids Magazine is also available online, enabling you to access our info wherever you are. We’re excited to share our new look website with you along with a new address: www.citykidsmagazine.co.uk. Take a look for more news, features and inspiration for things to do with the children, including Christmas

PHOTOGRAPHY & STYLING Danielle Owen SHOOT CO-ORDINATION Sarah Lancaster

shows…eek!

Victoria Evans

editor@citykidsmagazine.co.uk citykidsmagazine.co.uk citykidswest

MODEL Freddie Little Revolution Productions Info@thelittlerevolution.co.uk

@citykidswest

To receive our newsletters, please sign up via our website at www.citykidsmagazine.co.uk

INDEX

04 WE LOVE 06 WHAT’S ON 13 VIEW BEVERLEY TURNER 14 FEATURE THE GREAT SCHOOLS DEBATE 19 STYLE 21 FOOD JO PRATT 23 BOOKS 24 EDUCATION 33 DIRECTORY BABIES & PRE-SCHOOLERS / LITTLE KIDS / BIG KIDS 43 DIRECTORY PARTIES 44 DIRECTORY HOLIDAY CLUBS 45 BOUTIQUE 46 PEOPLE AARON CRAZE CITY KIDS editor Victoria Evans designer Caroline Haye contributors Beverley Turner, Sharon Fried-Jones, Jo Pratt, Roxzann Weston, Rebekah Hall & Shirley Khan This publication may not be reproduced in whole or part by any means without prior consent of the publisher. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of the content at the time of publication, the publishers shall not be held responsible in any way for any inaccuracies or omissions. The opinions of those expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or CITY KIDS LTD. © 2015 CITY KIDS LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

WE LOVE

BOX CLEVER We all like to be virtuous every now and again, but sometimes we need a helping hand. Yumbox is here to make portion control and healthy choices easy. The two designs, Classic and Panino, are now available in Framboise and Zucca

£24.95

Orange. They are also functional – no

www.eatwell-uk.co.uk/yumbox

leaks, easy to clean and simple for kids and fat-fingered adults to open.

LIGHT THE WAY

There’s no

escape, the days are getting shorter and soon we’ll be walking to and from school in the dark. Ladybird-shaped Buggi Lights can attach to buggies, scooters and bikes to keep kids visible. They come in pairs for front and rear and have three flash settings. Batteries last around 150 hours and with 6 colours to choose from, everyone will be happy.

£14.99 www.hippychick.com

HEAD IN THE CLOUDS A tasteful addition to any nursery or children’s bedroom.

Nubie have sourced these clouds and raindrops mobiles from Denmark, all hung with transparent thread to give the illusion of floating.

Available in grey or pink tones with metallic leatherette raindrops.

£29.95

www.nubie.co.uk 04 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

WE LOVE

PORTABLE PLAY A play mat which doubles as a storage bag – genius. The range includes geometric

patterns

moustaches, colours,

in

which

and

tasteful machine

wash. They’re roomy and light and when playtime is over just pull the drawstring and go. The days of stepping on stray Lego pieces could finally be over! £27.54 www.smallable.com

KITTED OUT Popular with the Beckham family, Sportpax are fun and practical backpacks for sports-mad kids.

There are handy pockets and dividers to store a myriad of things that kids collect on a daily basis. Tennis and cricket balls coming soon.

£24.99 www.sportpax.co.uk

PARTY BAGS WITH A TWIST We’re back to school and party season begins in earnest again. Two West London mums have created Cotton Twist, a collection of mini craft kits perfect for party bag fillers or rainy day activities. Suitable for 3-8 yrs you can choose from mask making kits to mini camera toys.

Individual kits £1 and pre-filled party bags from £3.50 www.cottontwist.co.uk CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 05

September

Now

Sundays

CLUEQUEST

MONSKI MOUSE’S BABY DISCO

Kings Cross

The goal is simple: escape from a room in 60 minutes using only your mind, logic and teamwork, solving all the puzzles and mysteries. 10 yrs+ as part of a family outing.

Colin Hutton © Hartswood Films

©WWT

www.cluequest.co.uk

10 to 14

Southbank

Various locations, Chiswick

www.southbankcentre.co.uk

www.chiswickbookfestival.net

Dance party created and hosted by Australian DJ, producer and mum of two, Monski Mouse, who spins an eclectic selection of retro hits and funky nursery rhymes. Under 5s and parents.

Last date 27th Sept.

Celebrate 150 years of Alice in Wonderland with craft activities, a fancy dress competition and a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, while authors such as Sally Green, Oscar Kolkowski and Fran Clark talk about their latest books.

All ages.ages.

© firstVIEW

What’s on

12

13

19

DEVONSHIRE ROAD STREET PARTY

CURIOUS

IMAGINARY FRIEND WORKSHOP

Chiswick

Watermans www.watermans.org.uk

Join the shop owners for live music, a hog roast and various events all day.

10.30. All ages.

from

The new season at Watermans kicks off with a delightful show for 0-3s.

18

© Theatre Alibi

www.vam.ac.uk

26

COSMONAUTS

DIGITAL DESIGN WEEKEND

Science Museum

06 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

www.lyric.co.uk Sophie Bucket lives on a farm with her Dad. One day, Sophie Bucket finds an egg. She keeps it warm, and out pops a cuddly, toothy, burpy, baby MONSTER! 3-7 yrs 11am & 1pm

Digital Design Weekend © V&A

V&A

Lyric, Hammersmith

Discover how Russia turned the dream of space travel into a reality and became the first nation to explore space in this once-in-a-lifetime exhibition.

Interactive workshop where designers and model makers turn children’s descriptions of their imaginary friend into drawings and sculptures. Drop-in.

All ages.

26 & 27

www.sciencemuseum.org.uk

©

Alexei Leonov, Over the Black Sea, 1973 © The Memorial Museum

www.ace-photographic.co.uk

www.devonshireroad.london

www.vam.ac.uk

Family drop-ins with various show-andtell installations and labs exploring design, technology and art. All ages.

N G I D S E E R E D V O UNC O KIDS G

FREE

day n u S d an y a 2015 d r r e u t b a S tem p e S 7 26 – 2

Go behind the scenes at the Museum Depot, Acton, plus a free visit to the Siemens Heathrow Express Depot, North Acton.

Enjoy London’s design classics

Discover the city’s great transport design heritage during a jam-packed weekend of activities at the Museum Depot.

. Displays of original printing blocks . Talks on fabric design and historical vehicles . Creative workshops and tours . Miniature railway rides . Films from the archives . Vintage Ice Cream Cab

ee the fr n o Hop e bus two l t t u sh he een t w t e b s t site o p e d

Whistle Stop Tour

Explore modern train design and take part in family fun activities at the Siemens Heathrow Express Depot on Saturday 26 September only.

For more information go to ltmuseum.co.uk

2015.111_M_Design Uncovered Acton Depot_Ad_Full page_H 240 x 190mm_City Kids magazine.indd 1

18/08/2015 15:59

What’s on

11

LEGO SCULPTURES

HELLO KITTY LIVE

Wetland Centre, Barnes

Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith

www.wwt.org.uk

www.eventimapollo.com

MUD LARKING ON THE THAMES

Giant LEGO sculptures of wildlife will be on show for 5 weeks and will form a trail for kids of all ages, including a large North American River Otter, a Hawaiian Goose and a Red Breasted goose.

HALF TERM

from

24

All ages. Under 14s must accompanied by an adult.

HALF TERM

from

be

27

Join other families at the Millennium Bridge Beach to discover pipes from the 16th Century and bones that look scarily like dinosaurs feet! Warm up with a cosy cup of hot chocolate courtesy of Muddy Puddles.

11.00 3-10 yrs.

HALF TERM

from

28

DINOSAUR WEEK

London Museum of Water & Steam

GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS

www.waterandsteam.org.uk

Lyric, Hammersmith

www.watermans.org.uk

www.lyric.co.uk

A play about dinosaurs, Dinosaur Land in the bar, dino bath bomb making, drama classes for older kids and the opportunity to meet a life size dino. All dinosaur possibilities covered. All ages.

Discover the spooky secrets of the historic engine houses and maybe meet a few of their past occupants!

Halloween craft activities, a ride on the Ghost Train and a trip through the creepy wood!

HALF TERM

29

Enjoy October half term at The Lyric with a performance of this children’s classic. A mix of puppetry, music and mischievous moments. 11am & 1pm 2yrs+

Watermans

© Theatre Alibi

SPOOKFEST

30

31

HALLOWE’EN CRAFTS AND PUMPKIN PARADE

FUN DMC Royal Albert Hall www.royalalberthall.com

Fulham Palace www.fulhampalace.org

Royal Festival Hall www.southbankcentre.co.uk Sue Perkins conducts and presents music at the Royal Festival Hall featuring dancers, characters from Shrek, young West End stars and Eurovision’s Sarbel from Greece. 2 pm.

08 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Enjoy Hallowe’en themed crafts and face painting in Bishop’s Park. Bring a pre-carved pumkin and any musical instruments or noisy objects to scare away the ghouls on a pumpkin parade around the Park. All ages. 2pm

© RBG Kew

© firstVIEW

Fans of this feline superstar can see her take to the stage live and in 3D.

© National Gallery, London

3 Colin Hutton © Hartswood Films

8

from

WWT London

October

A real Hip-Hop party designed with both parents and children in mind so grab your ‘kid and play’! Three hours of child friendly Hip- Hop, Funk, and Disco and block party anthems. 12pm

If you LOVE LEGO® you cannot miss this

THE UK’S LARGEST LEGO® EXHIBITION FAN DISPLAYS, VINTAGE & RARE LEGO®, INTERACTIVE LEGO® AREAS & MORE...

GET YOUR HANDS ON MORE LEGO® THAN YOU CAN IMAGINE!

GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY WWW.BRICKSHOWSLIVE.COM Brick2015AdvertAW190X240mm.indd 1

23/07/2015 15:40

November

KIPPER’S SNOWY DAY Watermans

©WWT

www.watermans.org.uk

Based on the award-winning children’s books by Mick Inkpen, Kipper and his friend Tiger go on an adventure in the snow - but can they find their way home?

From Sat 5th December.

5

Now MICHAEL ROSEN’S BEAR HUNT, CHOCOLATE CAKE AND BAD THINGS Discover Children’s Story Centre www.discover.org.uk Discover hidden rooms and brilliant clues that show what inspired Michael Rosen’s writing including his Grandparents’ sitting room and his classroom. All ages.

8

14

FUNHARMONICS TELLING TALES: PIRATES!

FREEZE BIG AIR

FIREWORKS! Dukes Meadows Golf & Tennis www.dukesmeadows.com

© National Gallery, London

Book now!

Illustrations © 1989 Helen Oxenbury by permission of Walker Books Ltd., London SE11 5HJFrom

What’s on

Plenty of fireworks fun on the golf course with hot food thrown in. Tickets £5 for kids, £10 for adults, includes refreshments.

from

14

RAINFOREST CAFÉ SANTA’S GROTTO

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park www.freezebigair.com

www.therainforestcafe.co.uk

Royal Festival Hall

14 & 15

Battersea Park www.schoolsshow.co.uk If you’re considering a private education, then this show is for you.

Tickets are free.

10 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Olympic medallist Jenny Jones hosts Britains biggest snowsports and music event with 360 tonnes of snow and the world’s best snowboarders and skiers.

from

20

RAYMOND BRIGGS’ FATHER CHRISTMAS Lyric, Hammersmith

© Theatre Alibi

Shiver me timbers! It’s the London Philharmonic Orchestra and a swashbuckling story in the ‘Billy’s Band’ series. 12pm.

Image Published by Puffin Books Copyright Raymond

© firstVIEW

www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Elves, gifts, a meal and a meeting with Father Christmas are all part of this magical festive experience.

Booking open now!

from

21

BRICKMAS Legoland Windsor www.legoland.co.uk

www.lyric.co.uk Santa awakes from a dream of sun, sea and sand only to find it is the busiest day of the year: Christmas Eve. Runs until 24th.

Under 6s.

Visit Father Christmas and his elves for a free LEGO gift, plus access to 14 rides and attractions. Make Christmas cards, decorate biscuits and write letters to Father Christmas too.

Booking now!

WIN a family ticket to

The Nutcracker on Ice at the Royal Albert Hall As midnight strikes on a magical Christmas Eve, a toy Nutcracker comes to life, sweeping young Marie to a winter wonderland of enchantment where she meets the Mouse King, the Nutcracker Prince and, of course, the Sugar Plum Fairy.

International ice dance sensation The Imperial Ice Stars return for a third triumphant season to 4000 square feet of ice at the Royal Albert Hall for 12 performances only.

The Nutcracker on Ice runs at the Royal Albert Hall from 28 December 2015 - 2 January 2016. For more information and to book tickets visit www.royalalberthall.com or call 020 7838 3100.

THIS AUTUMN’S BEST

To be in with a chance of winning a family ticket (4 tickets) on 31 December at 5pm visit www.hotticketoffers.com/competition/nutcracker and enter competition code CITYKIDS followed by your details.

Terms and Conditions Family ticket consists of 4 tickets. Tickets valid for Thursday 31 December, 5pm performance only. Subject to availability. Non transferable. No cash alternative. Additional expenses are the responsibility of the prize winner. Not for resale.

FAMILY THEATRE

Quality theatre for children every Sunday in Brentford.

And don’t miss Dinosaur Week at Half Term!

Box Office: 020 8232 1010 watermans.org.uk

Rosie’s Magic Horse © 2012. Quentin Blake and Russell Hoban

“Exhilarating” The Times

PAY AND PLAY

0208 994 3314

AT DUKES MEADOWS

Overlooking the River Thames in Chiswick, Dukes Meadows is the perfect venue for sports fans

We offer a 9 hole, par 3 golf course, a 50 bay floodlit driving range, an academy golf course, LTA standard indoor and outdoor tennis courts, a tennis academy centre of excellence, a gym and ‘Skiplex’ facility. We also provide tennis and golf programmes plus children’s holiday camps and a function room, which can seat up to 200 people. We are a Pay & Play venue meaning NO MEMBERSHIPS are required. To find out more visit our website www.dukesmeadows.com

Enrol now for the new semester starting 7th of September 2015

They always leave a little taller At The Little Gym®, we take a non-competitive, progressive approach to motor skill development. Children aged 4 months to 12 years, learn at an age appropriate pace, building upon past achievements as they advance week to week and semester to semester. Take the first step, and enroll your child today. And see how one success leads to another.

Book your Introductory Visit NOW! Call us on 020 8994 3729 The Little Gym Chiswick • University of Westminster Sports Ground • Hartington Road Chiswick W4 3AN FIND US JUST OFF THE A316 BY CHISWICK BRIDGE. Free parking on our doorstep.

020 8994 3729 • chiswick@thelittlegym.eu • www.thelittlegym.eu/chiswick

Parent/Child Classes

Preschool/ Kindergarten Gymnastics

Primary School Gymnastics

Holiday Camps

Birthday Parties

Beverley Turner on

VIEW as mums

child for the 11+ exam.

...TAKING CONTROL

A

as mums routinely do when preparing their

If a hospital is where you feel safest, head straight there. The Birth Centres at Queen Charlotte’s, Chelsea & Westminster and St.

braham Lincoln once said, “Give me

Mary’s all create the ‘homely’ environs to

six hours to chop down a tree and I

help you feel relaxed (and if you decide that

will spend the first four sharpening

you want some hard-core drugs they’re only

the axe.” Anyone who has despaired at their

a five minute spin down the corridor to the

child sharpening a pencil for thirty minutes

labour ward). Of course, the best place to feel

before starting their homework knows the

at home is, er, at home … but many first-timers

limitations of this wisdom. However, Abe

– understandably – recoil in horror at the idea

was no intellectual slouch (abolishing slavery

of a homebirth, even though NICE now states

is up there with getting a scholarship to St Paul’s) and he had a point:

that they are as safe as a hospital delivery. For a more fully informed

if you fail to prepare, you must be prepared to fail.

choice, check out www.which.co.uk/birth-choice.

And yet, when it comes to getting a giant baby out of our precious

So, once you’ve decided on venue, the next aspect to control is your

portal, we are all too happy to put our fingers in our ears for 40

birth-partner, who can be more than ‘just’ daddy (sorry, fellas!). Every

weeks saying ‘la la la’ whenever a kindly pal suggests a spot of

study of birth outcomes across the globe indicates that trusted care

hypnobirthing and instead reply that ‘we’re going with the flow’ –

from a one-to-one midwife results in lower c-section rates, fewer

this is merely code for being in a terror-stricken state of pure denial.

medical interventions, fewer stillbirths, higher baby birth-weights,

When labour does arrive (which is quite an achievement if your

and happier mothers. If a pill could give such results it would be

body is in subconscious shit-scared-lock-down), then we rock up at

unethical not to give it. But as it’s mostly women looking after

the nearest hospital, meet the stranger who will catch it and cling

women, it’s simply not prioritised by those with the purse strings.

desperately to the belief that ‘hoping for the best’ will be enough.

Trust me, ladies – it won’t be.

If your budget allows, hire an Independent – or private – midwife who can look after you throughout your pregnancy and post-natal

Inexplicably, certain doctors propound the notion that birth is not

period while also helping you choose your ideal place of birth.

something that we poor little women should have any hope of

Alternatively, a Doula couldn’t deliver your baby but does offer one-

controlling. Yes, of course a baby’s position and mum’s pelvis shape

to-one support. They can be an awesome advocate for your needs

can have an impact but, for the vast majority of women, having a

during labour as well as an extra pair of hands afterwards.

baby should be a normal physiological event. In order for it to go smoothly however, it does require certain conditions conducive

Do some hypnosis relaxation; block out the hospital setting with an

to the healthy flow of the contraction-making hormone Oxytocin.

i-Pod and closed eyes (wait until you’re in the labour room or you

This is the heady love drug produced during sex and requires certain

may end up at A&E for walking into a door) and make sure your

conditions: privacy, darkness and a sense of feeling safe (different

partner is equipped to protect your birthing space from the laundry

rules may apply to swingers and Fifty Shades of Grey readers). I

man collecting the towels. Get yourself fully prepared with good

like to think that when The Bloodhound Gang sang “You and me

antenatal lessons that speak your language. Labour isn’t something

baby ain’t nothing but mammals so let’s do it like they do on The

at which women should feel they have ‘passed’ or ‘failed.’ Although,

Discovery Channel”, they were talking about giving birth. Ahem.

while the system continues to fail women, it still makes sense to take as much control as you can. So what are you waiting for?

If your cat or dog has ever laboured quietly in a box under the stairs,

Go sharpen your axe!

you’ll know what I’m talking about. Unfortunately, hospitals with their swing door access to a stream of strangers, scary-looking medical equipment, bright lights, unfamiliar noises and smells can kick start the adrenalin, which – guess what – switches off Oxytocin flow. This

ONE-TO-ONE CARE

PAM WILD - Independent Midwife pamwild@mac.com / 07860 752 651

a few options

is simple evolution: we’d never have got this far if we bore our young

ANNABEL BRYANT – Independent Midwife annabel@theindependentmidwife.co.uk

only to have them eaten by an approaching woolly mammoth.

www.theindependentmidwife.co.uk / 07900 215 881

But despair not. This is why taking control matters. It is possible to

www.neighbourhoodmidwives.org.uk/ 0208 874 6624 www.doula.org.uk / 0871 433 3103

apply the same research, learning and micro-managing for your birth

Beverley Turner runs www.thebloomingbunch.co.uk and hosts Sunday Mornings on LBC Radio at 10am.

CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 13

FEATURE

THE GREAT SCHOOLS DEBATE Schools - is there a more hotly discussed topic amongst parents? We don’t think so.

Rebekah Hall sat down with Toby Young, Catriona Sutherland-Hawes and Tony Ryan to determine whether the fear and paranoia perpetuated by some parents is justified.

We’ve all heard the stories and some of us have seen them in action. Stand-up fights between mothers outside school gates over waiting lists; lying about tutoring and keeping those tutors names a wellguarded secret. This inevitably creates stress and apprehension… creating tension and paranoia. It’s little wonder that some families move away from the West London bubble.

However, even out of town, you can’t escape the facts.

There is pressure on school places as pupil numbers grow. Data from the Department for Education (DfE) predicts an extra 900,000 children in English schools over the next 10 years, and statistics from the Local Government Association report that this will cost £12 billion. Private school fees have trebled since 1990 to £286,000 per child over 14 years of day school according to The Killik & Co Private Education Index.

So yes, parents do have reason to worry. Maybe that’s why it is impossible to avoid those draining school discussions, especially in West London.

Reality Check A six-year-old has a creative writing tutor, maths tutor and must do 100 sums before he is allowed to play. A father is angry with the head teacher because his son failed to get into Oxford, despite his son’s average marks.

Urban myths or a reflection of the competition for places at West London private schools?

As registrar for the past nine years at Latymer Upper

School,

Catriona

Sutherland-Hawes

says

she often sees a lot of worry revolving around a parent’s desire for their child to attend a specific school. Unfortunately, she admits to seeing trophy 14 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

FEATURE

“Unless your child is one of a handful who would really benefit from going to an independent school, send your child to the local state school.

Toby Young, CEO West London Free School Academy Trust

hunting, with some parents unable to bear the thought of their child...

for as many local parents who want it,” says Ryan.

failing. “The difficulty comes when parents think the best place is actually the wrong place; aspirational parents don’t always accept

During exam time, Ryan sees more parents at his door and receives

that,” says Sutherland-Hawes.

many more phone calls. His advice for parents is to stay informed

In these competitive times, what is her advice for parents? “I genuinely

parents, the less anxious they are likely to be with [their child’s]

think there is a right school for everyone and there is a lot of choice.

results,” Ryan says.

throughout their child’s schooling. “The more information you give

Parents are not always willing to accept that what they might think is the best place is not somewhere that will suit their child.”

State Doesn’t Escape

Toby Young, CEO of the West London Free School Academy Trust, says parental anxiety in primary school is a combination of things.

“Parents with pre-school children are concerned that their children

While state schools continue to improve, (and private schools up their

won’t get a primary place due to the national shortage, or concerned

fees) they are included in the discussion too. Parents worry about

that their child won’t get a place at their first or second choice of

catchment areas and consider moving house to within metres of their

primary,” says Young.

preferred school. League tables play their part as competition across the board increases.

If you’re in the first situation, he suggests moving, going private, or urging the local schools to expand or start a free school. If in the

As Chiswick School achieves better results, head teacher Tony Ryan

second group, then Young says to “send your child to your third,

says he’s seen more anxiety from parents due to the current entry

fourth or fifth choice of school and supplement what they’re learning

waiting list. “Parents are now concerned about … the possibility that

at home.” To supplement learning at home, he naturally points to his

they might be just outside the catchment area,” says Ryan. “For some

book What Every Parent Needs to Know.

parents in certain geographical areas, there is huge anxiety because we are their first choice.”

To Tutor or Not to Tutor?

To help alleviate some of the pressure, Chiswick School increased

Tutoring. Perhaps the hottest topic of all. To alleviate worry and keep

its intake from 215 to 240 pupils. While this means increased class

up with the Joneses, parents often turn to tutoring to help ensure

sizes, Ryan is confident the school can manage without impacting the

entrance into a top school or to achieve better test results. Analysis

classroom. “We have a … moral purpose to try and provide a place

entitled Extra-curricular Inequalities [2014] by The Sutton Trust

“You want them to go to a school you trust, where they can get the right education, the right mould. It’s not just the exams you are buying into.

You’re buying into a much bigger deal.”

Tony Ryan, Head Chiswick School CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 15

FEATURE and Ipsos MORI states that, of 2,800 11 to 16 year-olds, 23 per cent of

be a good fit with a family’s educational values because, frankly, you

young people nationally and 37 per cent in London, say they received

will be attending that school too.

private or home tuition. The national figure was 18 per cent in 2005 and 24 per cent in 2013.

When asked for some golden rules, Sutherland-Hawes provides sound advice. At the top of her list is for parents to listen to head teachers

But what we all want to know is, are tutored kids better off?

because they have special knowledge of a child’s abilities. Also, she says, at secondary level ask your child what they think because it’s

Sutherland-Hawes knows tutoring is rife, and has become an industry.

just as much up to them. “Ask yourself, will my child be happy here?

“If you need to be tutored to get into a school, then it’s not the

Don’t be over aspirational. Be sensible about your choice,” Sutherland-

right school,” she says, adding that Latymer is only interested in

Hawes says. “Keep [children] calm.”

a child’s natural ability on entrance exams. “If you are not at the right academic level for that school … you will then struggle. Three years

Young’s advice is two-fold. He feels that children likely to benefit

ago, we stopped doing verbal and non-verbal reasoning, as it was being

the most from going to a good independent school are those from

over-tutored. It wasn’t giving us an idea of the child’s natural potential.“

very disadvantaged backgrounds who have high IQs. “If any parent reading this thinks their child falls into that category, they should

However, she does believe some exam preparation is a good idea, but

find out what the eligibility criteria is for full bursaries”. He adds that,

warns not to the point of memorising an entirely irrelevant story for

unless your child is one of a handful who would really benefit from

the English exam. She tells of one particular year when children from

going to an independent school, send your child to the local state

the same prep school wrote the same answers in the English section.

school. “Take the money you would otherwise have spent and put it

However, the answer had no bearing on the actual question, and

in a savings account. You can then use that nest egg to help them buy

their tests were marked down. In another instance it was obvious

a flat when they leave home. That flat represents far better value for

that many children in one postcode had had the same tutor. “Exam

money than a private education,” says Young.

preparation is different,” she says. “I fully support sitting down, doing exam papers to time, and getting used to that technique … Being

“Don’t listen to

tutored adds artificial intelligence; preparing for the exam is being

anybody, it’s about

aware of what is coming and having your timings right.”

your child. Trust your

Young suggests that the decision to tutor or not depends on where a

own instincts and

child falls on the ability spectrum and parents’ ambition for their child.

judgements; there is

“Children with exceptional ability are going to do well in public exams … without any need for private tutors,” Young says. Those children

a right place for every

most likely to benefit [from tutoring] are those on the pass/fail border.”

child.”

At Chiswick School, tutoring seems to be used as it was originally

Catriona Sutherland-Hawes Registrar, Latymer Upper

intended. Ryan says he rarely meets a situation where a child is being over tutored. At his school, tutoring is used instead as a healthy topup. Outside of school Ryan doesn’t believe that a tutor should be a

Ryan says he works closely with parents. “We constantly check the

requirement for any parent, but if used, should complement what

progress of students at school, and we [bring] that back to parents,”

is being taught in the classroom. However, the school does bring in

says Ryan. “You want them to go to a school you trust, where they

tutors to help give students more individual attention. “We employ

can get the right education, the right mould. It’s not just the exams

tutors [to] work with small groups,” he says. “A tutor [will] come in and

you are buying into. You’re buying into a much bigger deal.”

diagnose where [students] are and work with them … before we put them back into lessons.”

Still need a last word of advice?

The Golden Rules

“Don’t listen to anybody,” says Sutherland-Hawes. “It’s about your child. Trust your own instincts and judgements; there is a right place

We can all agree to some basic ground rules, like do your research,

for every child.”

read Ofsted reports, visit every school, meet with heads, ask tough questions and listen carefully to the response. Walking into a school,

And by the way, she occasionally reads Mumsnet. You’ve been warned!

every parent should have an instinct as to whether the school is the right fit for their child, and this is far more more important than

The Great Schools Debate continues in our Education section on p24

simply accepting a school as being a “top” school. Schools should also

including views on State vs Private, single sex education and outdoor learning.

16 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

ArtsEd is the UK’s best performing arts school

Join us for our open evenings Sixth Form 29 September, 5.30pm onwards 11-16 year olds 30 September, 5.30pm onwards

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020 8987 6600 | www.artsed.co.uk

PROMOTION

TOP OF THE C LASS With an astonishing array of term-time classes for kids, all within its 27-acre site, The Park Club makes life easy.

Back to school and the Taxi Service of Mum & Dad is in full swing, ferrying children to their growing list of after-school clubs. But life could be an awful lot simpler and more enjoyable with membership of The Park Club. Daily after-school, and after-work classes, allow children and parents to keep active, and enjoy some time together.

GYMNASTICS Gymnastics coach, Heather Watson, teaches artistic and rhythmic gymnastics, acrobatics and takes children through their BAGA badges. She got into gymnastics by chance, but was soon hooked.

“I really wanted to go to ballet, however, my mother worked full time so my Aunty, by chance, heard about gymnastic classes in the area.

I went along with my cousin and spent so much time in the gym my mother actually became I qualified coach!”

With child to coach ratios of 16:2, equipment including full bars and

seeing my athletes compete and win medals at the Ironman World

a high beam, Heather is proud to watch the children in her care grow

Championship in Hawaii.”

in confidence and ability, learning new skills from scratch.

Julian has been with The Park Club for 15 years and is convinced that “From simple floor play to full bar routines, it’s always amazing to

the “first class” facilities make a real difference to his training camps.

see children develop new skills. Fun is a very important element as kids love to play and learning while doing so makes the sport more

“When working with athletes, creating the right environment is

enjoyable.”

crucial for their development and motivation. The Park Club offers

TRIATHLON

everything a triathlete needs to continually improve and stay motivated. There are swim squads, spin classes, running classes,

But as we mentioned, it’s not all about the kids. Ever toyed with

a running school, strength classes, personal training, an amazing

the idea of doing a Triathlon, but don’t know where to start? Julian

25 metre outdoor heated pool, 3 adults triathlons a year, two kids’

Nagi is your man, The Park Club’s triathlon coach. “I train complete

triathlons a year, a duathlon and much, much more.”

beginners to swim - who never thought they could - to After classes, there’s no need to rush home for supper as everyone

can sit down as a family in The Terrace Café or Restaurant and plan the weekend’s activities – Body Combat, Yoga, Stretchworks or some time in the MediSpa could do the trick. The children can meet new friends in the adventure play area and bounce to their heart’s content on the enormous bouncing pillow.

For further information on membership - annual or monthly - special packages, day visits or guided tours, please call Marcus, Alex or Natalie on 020 8740 4599 or visit www.theparkclub.co.uk 18 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

STYLE

Polka Dot Girls’ Lunch Bag Gap £12.95 www.gap.co.uk

Rain Mac Billie Bush £40 www.selfridges.com

Stationary, pencil case & contents Pop Cutie £22 www.alexandalexa.com

Wellington Boots Joules £25 www.joules.com

Navy Wool Blend Coat Mayoral £61 www.mayoral.com Double Buckle Mary Jane Shoes Start-rite £74 www.startriteshoes.com

CITY KIDS BACK TO SCHOOL COOL New teachers and new shoesies, hurrah the start of the new school term is here!

We kick off the autumn term by taking a look at cool school fashions...

Stationary, pencil box & contents Marks and Spencer £8 www.marksandspencer.com

Grey Hooded Duffle Coat Mayoral £72 www.mayoral.com

Mini Classic Leather Satchel The Cambridge Satchel Company £125 www.cambridgesatchel.com

Pea Coat Little Marc Jacobs £185 www.the-mini-edit.com

Brown Jodpur Boots Regent £55 www.alexandalexa.com

ROXZANN WESTON STYLIST & ART DIRECTOR www.roxzannweston.com

Brown Leather Shoes Dr Martin from £55 www.drmartens.com CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 19

PROMOTION

Kelly Reeves Photography

CHISWICK KIDS DEVISE NEW MENU AT PHO

V

ietnamese restaurant Pho [pronounced fuh] is serving an exciting new children’s menu following a tasting by Chiswick

kids earlier this summer. At a special lunch at the High Road branch, ten lucky children tried a menu of Vietnamese street food, tasked with voting for their favourite dishes. The idea was to introduce mini versions of some of the most popular dishes on the adult menu.

drink — like fresh juices or homemade lemonade for £5.50.

Libby Andrews from Pho is thrilled with the input the Chiswick

Pho is the Vietnamese national dish; an aromatic, nutritious and

children have given to the menu’s transformation: “Kids love to eat

delicious rice noodle soup served with a side plate of fresh herbs

Vietnamese food, it’s tasty and nutritious, and who doesn’t love

to add as you please. The authentic broths take around 12 hours to

slurping noodles? They all had a great time and we are really excited

prepare — this preparation being key to retaining all their goodness

by the dishes they voted for as their favourites. It’s the first time we’ve

and developing their own distinctive tastes and aromas.

done something like this and we will definitely do it again.”

Owners Stephen and Juliette Wall opened Pho, London’s first Seven of the stand-out favourites now appear on menu, which

Vietnamese street food restaurant, in Clerkenwell in June 2005

is being served in all 15 Pho restaurants across the UK: wok-fried

after they travelled to Vietnam and fell in love with the food. Ten

flat rice noodles (Pho Xao), vermicelli rice noodles (Bun), chicken or

years later, Pho is still a family-run business serving great value

steak rice-noodle soup (Pho), wok-fried rice, chicken curry, and pork

and authentically prepared Vietnamese food with

& lemongrass meatball skewers. Kids can choose one main and a

restaurants in London, Brighton and Leeds.

Pho, 134 Chiswick High Road, London, W4 1PU Tel: 0203 058 1755 Monday to Thursday 12pm - 10:30pm, Friday to Saturday 12pm - 11pm, Sunday 12pm - 10:30pm @PhoRestaurant www.phocafe.co.uk 20 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

FOOD BY JO PRATT Never used, or even seen a chia seed? Nor had we until we made these delicious snacks straight from Jo Pratt’s In the Mood for Healthy Food. Perfect for after school or lunchboxes, or that mid-afternoon slump, they are full of fibre, omega-3 fats, protein and antioxidants. Good things really do come in small packages.

CHIA SEED FLAPJACKS You’d be mad not to give these ‘power’ flapjacks a go, as the energy you get from them will keep you going for ages meaning you won’t snack on whatever is lying around later on in the day.

MAKES 15 PREPARATION TIME 10 minutes COOKING TIME 30 minutes 6 tbsp coconut oil, plus extra for greasing 175g / 6oz / 1 3/4 cups rolled oats 100g / 3 1/2oz / scant 1 cup pecan nuts, roughly chopped 50g / 1 3/4oz / 2/3 cup pumpkin or sunflower seeds 50g / 1 3/4oz / 1/3 cup chia seeds 40g / 1 1/2oz / 1 cup coconut flakes 75g / 2 1/2oz / 1/2 cup dried cherries, cranberries or blueberries 100g / 3 1/2oz / 2/3 cup chopped dried figs or dates 1/2

tsp vanilla extract

115g / 4 oz / generous 1/3 cup honey 3 tbsp soft brown sugar 1. Preheat the oven to 180ºC/350ºF/gas 4. Oil and line a 20 x 30cm/8 x 12in cake pan with baking parchment.

2. Put the oats, pecans and seeds in a baking pan and toast in the oven for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden. Tip into a bowl and mix with the chia seeds, coconut flakes, dried fruit and vanilla extract.

3. In a small pan, heat together the coconut oil, honey and sugar, stirring until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture starts to boil. Simmer for 2 minutes, then pour over the oat mixture. Mix well, then tip into the prepared pan. Press into the edges with the back of a spoon and bake for 25–30 minutes, until lightly golden on top.

4. Remove and leave until completely cool before turning out and cutting into squares.

5. The flapjacks will keep in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

In the Mood for Healthy Food by Jo Pratt is published by Nourish at £20.00 hardback.

CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 21

THE PARTY THEY’LL NEVER Kids parties WANT TO at Oxygen END new big thing!

The We may be biased, but what could be more fun than bouncing on

150 connected trampolines?

A party host to take of every little detail, a unique theme to make every party extra special, and instant playground respect.

With trampoline dodgeball, an obstacle course, a foam pit, an airbag, parkour and of course freejumping, fun and laughter is guaranteed!

All followed by singing, pizza, cake, and organised games. Our mascot ‘Little O’ might even make an appearance to make the experience super special!

Leave with party bags, happy children and a year off!

We take care of everything, all you need to do is pick a date and send out those invitations!

Birthday parties start from £20 per child. Don’t forget to use the voucher code to get a 20% discount off your party.

If you have any questions we would love to talk to you, please call us on 0208 992 2211.

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for a 20% discount off your first activity

BOOKS

So it’s back to school and along with new uniform, pencil cases and shiny new shoes, I suggest you all hot foot it down to your local book shop and stock up on some new books for your shelves.

WORDS Sharon Fried-Jones

PRE-SCHOOLERS

LITTLE KIDS

BIG KIDS

If the holidays feel like a distant memory, Where Will I Go? by Richard Sinclair and Jon Lycett-Smith (Digital Leaf) will soon remind young readers of their adventures.

Little Bell and the Moon by Giles Paley-Phillips and Iris Deppe (Fat Fox Books)

When a book starts with the line: “My brother is a superhero and I could have been one too, except I needed to go for a wee.’ You know you’re going to be in for a treat.

It follows a father and son as they go to a museum, where the young lad ponders which countries he’ll visit when he grows up. We’re taken on a journey encompassing all corners of the globe. Richard Sinclair’s fun rhyme will definitely engage young readers as will Jon Lycette-Smith’s illustrations which are colourful and detailed.

It’s a sweet tale and it’s also available as an app costing £2.99 from the App Store.

For those who have lost a loved one recently Little Bell and the Moon by Giles Paley-Phillips and Iris Depp (Fat Fox Books) sensitively tackles the issue of death.

We see the relationship between a young girl called Bell and the moon, who takes her on an epic adventure every night before she goes to sleep. They travel far and wide, and Bell is shown deserts, mountains, and oceans. For sixty years the pair take flight and explore the world, until one day Bell grows weak and frail and falls into a deep sleep.

Her very essence transforms into a star alongside the moon and the pair are reunited in the sky. Iris Deppe’s illustrations are set against a dark palate. Simple and uncluttered – it shows the depth of the two characters. It’s a very touching tale and Giles’ rhyming verse is great at making a difficult topic accessible.

Sharon Fried-Jones is a West London mum who blogs about her future career as a children’s author, loves shoes and writes book reviews. www.sharonfjones.com

For another book on the topic of loss, I would also highly recommend Benji Davis’ excellent Grandpa’s Island.

My Brother is a Superhero by David Solomons (Nosy Crow) is an all round chucklefest, which will have your child doubled up in fits of laughter on every page.

It stars 11 year old Luke, whose older, overachieving brother Zack has been given superpowers and has the mammoth task of saving not one, but two universes. This is incredibly annoying as Luke had only nipped out of their tree house for five minutes to go to the loo, when a space ship with the leader Zorbon the Decider had given Zack his new powers. “Should have held it in, shouldn’t you?’

Zack taunts.

But when Zack is kidnapped by his arch enemy, it’s down to Luke and his friends to recuse him and save the planet in just five days… Can he do it?

Brilliantly written, Solomon has a razor sharp wit which will equally have adults in stitches too. Definitely a force to be reckoned with in children’s writing.

CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 23

EDUCATION

Our Feature article saw Rebekah Hall talking to some key figures involved in educating West London kids. Over the next few pages, we’ve broadened the net to provide advice on tutoring, single-sex education, outdoor learning and the private sector.

SINGLE SEX EDUCATION FOR BOYS Gordon Milne, Headmaster at The Falcons Our school motto is ‘Bringing out the Best in Boys’. We believe

Research shows that girls progress in reading quicker than

that an all-boys school, with teachers who understand their

boys. In reading-based comprehension assessments, boys

needs, is the best environment to achieve this. Boys can have

scored higher if what they were reading was fact-based rather

different learning styles to girls. Through appreciating these

than narratives. Girls’ scores are less influenced by the content of

differences and taking them into account when planning the

comprehension tasks. Therefore, we have a large number of non-

curriculum and lessons, boys can achieve certain learning goals

fiction books with diagrammatic and pictorial representations

as early as girls.

that help boys engage more with reading.

In general, boys do not sit still for long. They learn better when

Visuals and technology are effective tools in boys’ learning and

you incorporate hands-on tasks. We have a perfect spot in

The Falcons is very well resourced with iPads, laptops and large

Richmond Park for our Forest Schools Programme where the

touch screens. Currently, about 85% of primary teachers are

boys, through hands-on learning, build independence and

female but evidence suggests that boys benefit from positive

self-esteem and learn about teamwork and problem solving.

male role models. The Falcons is able to attract such teachers so

We commit more curriculum time to physical education and

our balance of males to females is more even.

introduce team games from reception.

www.falconsboys.co.uk

GIRLS-FIRST EDUCATION Jane Lunnon, Head, Wimbledon High School GDST To bring out the best in individuals, whatever

Having only recently moved into a single-sex environment, every

their aptitudes, a single-sex environment

day I delight in the fact that Wimbledon High School girls are not

really is second to none.

defining who they are or what they care about in opposition to boys.

To achieve their full potential, girls need space to make informed, unconstrained choices

It’s not just about opting to do it. It’s also about believing you can.

about interests, subjects and careers. Yet,

Girls at Wimbledon High School tend to start with the view that

from an increasingly early age, they face pressures to conform

they ‘can do stuff’ and that if they can’t do it at any point, part of

to gender stereotypes – to choose ‘girl-appropriate’ subjects or

the fun will be to work out how to do it.

activities, narrowing their choices.

People sometimes think that single-sex schools are about By contrast, girls at schools like mine are empowered to reject

‘protecting’ girls from the big, bad world, but in my experience,

stereotyping, showing a greater propensity to choose ‘masculine’

far from wrapping girls in cotton wool, single-sex schools offer

subjects – like maths and physics. Girls are also more likely to step

an education dedicated to the development and empowerment of

up to leadership roles.

successful, confident and adventurous girls.

www.wimbledonhigh.gdst.net 24 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

EDUCATION

CAN YOU MIX VOCATIONAL AND ACADEMIC STUDY? Ar tsEd in Chiswick would say yes

For those looking for an arts-led secondary school, ArtsEd could tick the box. It is an independent day school for 11-18 year olds and offers outstanding CEN ICK SW CHI

W

NO

OP

TRE

EN

!

vocational

and

academic

learning.

Excellent

academic results ensure ArtsEd is the highestranking Performing Arts school in the UK. Students have enjoyed a 100% pass rate at A Level over the past three years, while all Year 11 pupils have gained at least five GCSE passes at Grade C or above – most achieve eight or nine GCSEs with excellent grades.

The school’s national success has been recognised by The Independent Schools Association (ISA), which awarded ArtsEd its prestigious Annual Excellence Award in 2015. The ISA said: “The award was given in recognition of excellent academic standards, alongside specialist performing arts provision and record numbers of pupils achieving places at universities and conservatoires. The School has also seen an impressive increase in pupil numbers over the past two years and introduced an innovative new curriculum. It has opened the Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation Theatre and is also engaging in important work with the local community.”

ArtsEd encourages its students to be independent thinkers, enabling them to continue their studies.

www.artsed.co.uk

CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 25

EDUCATION

HOW TO CHOOSE A TUTOR

CHALLENGING TRADITION

Jason Hobbs from NumberWorks’nWords, Chiswick, gives some helpful pointers.

By Leanna Barrett, Little Forest Folk

What with all the tutorial options out there, how does a parent decide who to entrust their ‘most treasured’

Education is often too focused on teaching facts – it is more important to provide children with the tools they need to learn and thrive in the real world. Being outdoors encourages them to adopt a collaborative and creative approach to learning. They

with? Comfort is the key factor, and probably the most

learn to take risks and assess situations, which fosters resilience

important. You should sense that the tutor wants to

and independence of character. Failure is not seen as a bad thing,

know your child (and you) and that they will enjoy

but something to learn and build from.

working together.

Good tutors will be able to diagnose problems quickly, and within the first hour begin working on them. Length of experience is not always a sign of a winner, neither is the amount of money you’re asked to pay. Most trained classroom teachers don’t have the time to tutor privately, so those who only tutor should be able to give you good reasons why they’re not in a classroom. Most likely it’s a

At Little Forest Folk we believe that children should have

lifestyle choice, but be sure. Non-professional educators,

regular access to wild spaces, especially in their formative years.

e.g. students or people from other backgrounds, should not

Somewhere they can intimately connect with nature, engage directly with the real world, have their curiosity sparked and

be discounted so long as they satisfy the above, but you will

encourage their sense of wonder. A place where children can be

be foregoing experience so this option should be cheaper.

children; where they can enjoy the freedom and fun of outdoor play whilst learning about the world simultaneously. After all,

The tutor should not be your child’s friend. Remember, you are paying someone to improve your child’s understanding, not do their homework. Make sure

‘Wisdom begins in Wonder’.

We cover all aspects of the EYFS, just as they would be in a traditional setting. However, we incorporate them within

they see homework, tests, and examples of any work

a natural outdoor setting. We believe our children become

your child has trouble with so they can respond to

confident, self-motivated, enthusiastic and curious little

their needs, not follow a plan. They should help your

learners. We strongly

child UNDERSTAND rather than simply remember

believe that children should be taught how

the solution to a problem. Think ‘Give a man a fish and

to think instead of

he will feed his family for a day…’ The best tutors will

just being told what

ultimately be aiming to do themselves out of a job.

to think.

Lastly, try before you buy. Some tutoring centres, like us, offer free assessments, so make use of them. Private tutors probably won’t offer a free first session, but should welcome the idea of an initial session before booking. www.numberworksnwords.co.uk 26 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

www.littleforestfolk.com

EDUCATION

STATE OR PRIVATE? Ben Hitchman, from the Independent Schools’ Show The argument of state versus private education is

soon after birth, the state sector allows three to four

unending and inconclusive. It is perhaps simplest to just

years to move into the catchment area. Depending on

apply the idea that, ‘one size does not fit all’. The decision

where you live, the public sector can provide impressive

to place your child in a state or independent school is

opportunities and often a wider view of society.

largely driven by finances. To privately educate a child from nursery through to university costs an average of

In spite of much controversy, independent schools do have

£150,000. This exorbitant figure means it is an option

a higher success rate of pupils going on to higher education

available to few. As such, mixing and matching between

than the state sector. Due to smaller class sizes, they can

state and private schools during the formative years,

provide a higher level of academic care. In addition they

can provide a valuable balance. Supporting a child at

offer a wider range of ‘extras’ and a higher standard of

state school with private tuition can also be a successful

facilities; they push a broader range of subjects and enable

way of ensuring they have access to one-to-one teaching

an earlier start with foreign languages. As such, if only an option for sixth form, going private at this stage could be

Unlike private schools in which places must be booked

hugely beneficial for your child. www.schoolsshow.co.uk

CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 27

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EDUCATION

SUPER SCIENCE!

T

he number of UK students taking up STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and maths) at A-level is increasing. However, we’re still lagging behind other countries when it comes to encouraging girls to follow a scientific path. City Kids spoke to Chiswick’s very own Particle Physicist, Dr Stathis

Stefanidis of Phi Tuition to find out how to inspire our next generation of scientists – boys and girls.

Can you remember the first experiment you did?

The very first experiment I recall is the one with a spinning bucket filled with water. I was fascinated by the fact that the water didn’t fall out, which I understood years later when I was taught Newton’s laws of motion and centripetal force.

When did you know you would make a career out of science?

At the age of 13, when I started studying physics and chemistry as standalone subjects, I was fortunate to have a few charismatic physics and maths teachers who introduced me to the methodologies and concepts of physics. I knew from a young age that teaching science interested me. Although I miss research, I get huge enjoyment from teaching.

better medicines and … why not … another planet as beautiful as ours to explore, then we need to encourage science and raise people’s awareness. The rest will come.

What would your answer be to a student who said “Science is boring!”?

It is. As educators, if we don’t ignite the spark in students inspirationally, then yes, it will be boring. I studied Particle Physics and always found Solid State Physics boring.

Students don’t have to find excitement in everything. They just need to find their own spinning bucket.

Dr Stathis Stefanidis, Managing Director www.phi-tuition.eu | www.facebook.com/phi.tuition | email@phi-tuition.eu

Sir Tim Hunt made some badly judged comments about women in science, but it got us all talking again about the apparent lack of female scientists working today. What can we do to encourage more girls to take up STEM subjects?

I believe we need to overcome the stereotypes that are not only fostered in schools, but also in society and families. We need more women in science; as teachers, as researchers, as members of the strategy boards. We need to get away from the “a telescope for John, and a doll for Jenny” attitude. Let’s overcome the known stereotypes that exist around us. Let us, as educators, develop the potential girls have for science and engineering subjects, and then examine other factors. My experience of working with women at CERN is against all stereotypes. The next Director-General of CERN is a woman, and that says something.

What can the science world do to promote itself to younger people?

Well, I don’t think this applies to the scientific community alone.

It is an issue for our society as a whole. The needs of our society are changing at an unprecedented rate and the question we need to ask is whether or not science has a role to play in advancing the achievements of mankind. If not, we continue as we are and hope for the best. If the answer is yes, we need to transform our priorities. If we think we need faster trains, fewer polluting cars, CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 29

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EDUCATION

S C H O O L O P E N D AY S - A U T U M N 2 0 1 5 HEATHFIELD HOUSE SCHOOL 4-11yrs co-ed www.heathfieldhouse.co.uk Call for appointment: 020 8994 3385 ORCHARD HOUSE 3-11yrs co-ed www.orchardhs.org.uk

3 Oct 020 8742 8544 - info@orchardhs.org.uk

THE FALCONS 3-13yrs boys PRE-PREP Chiswick Campus 26 Sept PREP Richmond Campus 10 Oct RAVENSCOURT PARK PREPARATORY SCHOOL 4-11yrs co-ed www.rpps.co.uk 17 Sept / 15 Oct / 17 Nov 020 8846 9153 FULHAM PREPARATORY SCHOOL 4-13yrs co-ed www.fulhamprep.co.uk Call for appointment 020 7386 2444 KEW GREEN PREP SCHOOL 4-11yrs co-ed www.kgps.co.uk 9 Sept / 7 Oct / 4, 18 Nov ST AUGUSTINE’S PRIORY 3-18yrs girls www.saintaugustinespriory.org.uk WHOLE SCHOOL 10 Oct SIXTH FORM 15 Oct CHISWICK AND BEDFORD PARK 3-11yrs co-ed (girls only after 7yrs) www.cbppschool.co.uk By appointment only

ST JAMES SCHOOLS 4-18yrs www.stjamesschools.co.uk JUNIOR SCHOOL Call Mrs Collins 020 7348 1793 SENIOR GIRLS’ SCHOOL 30 Sept Sixth Form 3 & 7 Oct 4 Nov School in Action SENIOR BOYS’ SCHOOL 15 & 17 Oct 30 Sept / 5 Nov School in Action IBSTOCK PLACE 4-18yrs co-ed www.ibstockplaceschool.co.uk PRE-PREP & PREP 23 Sept / 11 Nov SENIORS 16, 19 Sept / 4 Nov SIXTH FORM 24 Sept THE HARRODIAN 4-18yrs co-ed www.harrodian.com 7 Oct / 5 Nov Book tour 020 8762 6321 HAMPTON COURT HOUSE 3-18yrs co-ed www.hamptoncourthouse.co.uk For all entries contact Registrar Sarah Carroll 020 8614 0587 sarah@hchnet.co.uk LATYMER PREPARATORY SCHOOL 7-11yrs co-ed www.latymerprep.org 21 Sept / 9, 12, 16 Oct / 6, 9, 13, 16, 20 Nov Book only if your child is sitting 7+ in Jan 2016 NOTTING HILL AND EALING HIGH SCHOOL 4-18yrs girls www.nhehs.gdst.net JUNIORS 24 Sept / 8 Oct / 4, 16, 25 Nov SENIORS 22 Sept / 5 Oct / 12, 26 Nov 14 Oct Open evening Call to book: 020 8991 2165

COLET COURT & ST PAUL’S BOYS 7-18yrs boys www.coletcourt.org.uk www.stpaulsschool.org.uk 12 Sept for a tour of both schools Book: ccschoolsec@stpaulsschool.org.uk KEW HOUSE SCHOOL 11yrs+ co-ed www.kewhouseschool.com 15, 23 & 30 Sept / 16 & 21 Oct / 3, 12, 18, 27 Nov LADY ELEANOR HOLLES 7-18yrs girls www.lehs.org.uk JUNIORS 10 Oct SENIORS 17, 23, 29 Sept / 15 Oct / 13, 26 Nov Contact: registrar@lehs.org.uk LATYMER UPPER SCHOOL 11-18yrs co-ed www.latymer-upper.org 7 Nov ST PAUL’S GIRLS SCHOOL 11yrs+ girls www.spgs.org 7, 10 Oct / 2 Nov Book Tour: admissions@spgs.org ST PAUL’S SCHOOL 11yrs+ boys www.stpaulsschool.org.uk Book Tour: admissions@stpaulsschool.org.uk GODOLPHIN AND LATYMER 11-18yrs girls www.godolphinandlatymer.com 17 & 23 Sept / 13 Oct HAMPTON SCHOOL 11yrs+ boys 3, 16, 26 November ARTS ED 11yrs+ co-ed www.artsed.co.uk SENIOR SCHOOL 30 Sept SIXTH FORM 29 Sept

S AT U R D AY S C H O O L S f o r b i l i n g u a l c h i l d r e n Chinese: Czech:

Link Chinese Academy ................................

www.linkchinese.co.uk

The Czech School ........................................

www.czechschool.org.uk

Dutch:

Den Danske Kirke .......................................

www.danskekirke.org

De Regenboog School .................................

www.regenboogschool.org.uk

French:

Finnish School of Kingston .........................

www.fsok.org

La Petite Ecole d’Ealing ..............................

www.petiteecoledealing.com

German:

Boule de Neige école française…...............

www.bouledeneigelondonfrenchschool.webs.com

Hindi:

Deutsche Samstagschule Ealing ..................

www.germansaturdayschoolealing.co.uk

Culture Curry ...............................................

www.culturecurry.co.uk

Japanese:

via the Italian Consulate ..............................

www.conslondra.esteri.it

The Japanese School ...................................

www.thejapaneseschool.ltd.uk

Polska Sobotnia Szkoła im M.Reja .............

www. www.polskaszkolachiswick.org

Polska Szkoła im. Stefana kardynała ..........

www.polska-szkola.org.uk

Danish: Finnish:

Italian:

Polish:

Russian: Spanish:

Wyszyńskiego w Londynie Cathedral of the Dormition .........................

www.russianchurchlondon.org

Instituto Cervantes ......................................

www. londres.cervantes.es (Wednesday & Friday classes) CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 31

TRY THIS! WITH THE RUGBY WORLD CUP AROUND THE CORNER, AND ENGLAND PLAYING HOSTS, WHAT BETTER WAY TO KICK OFF OUR NEW FEATURE THAN TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT CHISWICK’S HOME CLUB.

RUGBY at Chiswick RFC Established just over four years ago, Chiswick Junior Rugby now sees up to 100 children playing rugby each weekend and last season scooped four pieces of silverware. This was more than the senior teams managed and reflects well on the spirit the minis and juniors brought to the pitch, and also the high standard of coaching being offered.

Head Junior coach Simon Hallett says the club is 32 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

“unusual for a junior rugby club as we have many first team players who coach on Sunday after a league game on Saturday. I think their keenness definitely rubs off. We’ve also steadily increased the number of parent coaches as we want to be a family focused young players club”.

Junior Chairman Wim Hulme is equally enthusiastic. “We are very glad to have the parents

on board; they have really helped us maintain a good coach-to-player ratio”.

The club is still in development (as opposed to A or B level) and welcomes kids of all abilities to join for the 2015/16 season.

Hallett is keen to stress the great coach to player ratio.

“We have small groups for coaching, where each player’s strengths and weaknesses can be developed appropriately”.

The new season starts on 6th September, where there will be a welcome session for both returning and new players (boys and girls, aged 4 to 12 are welcome) followed by a barbecue.

New players are invited for a free session on any Sunday in September.

More details at chiswickrugby.co.uk/juniors

BABIES AND PRE-SCHOOLERS MONDAYS THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS

SPANISH STORYTIME

From 09.30 Various classes 4mths to 5yrs.

Hartington Rd (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

10.30 Under 5yrs.

Hammersmith Library, Shepherds Bush Road, W6 7AT lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

GYMBOREE

LITTLE KICKERS | FOOTBALL

From 09.30 Various classes.

Newborn to 5yrs.

Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN gymboree-uk.com/f/chiswick 07967 835 059

TWISTERS | GYM AND DANCE 09.30 1 to 2yrs Twisters 1; 10.30 2 to 3yrs Twisters 2; 13.10 3 to 4yrs Dance Drama; 14.00 3 to 4yrs Gymkids.

Acton Baptist Church, Church Road, W3 8PP twisters.org.uk 020 8933 9997 / 020 8840 4452

AMANDA’S ACTION CLUB | FUN, FITNESS & MUSIC 09.45 & 10.30 with Amanda.

Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN amandasactionclub.co.uk 01895 623 999

LITTLE HANDS BABY SIGN 09.45 Non-walkers; 10.45 Walkers; 11.15 Non-walkers.

The Drayton Court Hotel, 2 The Avenue, W13 8PH littlehandsbabysign.co.uk 07736 284474

THE BUILD IT WORKSHOP 09.45 16mths to 2yrs Loose Parts; 10.45 2 to 3yrs Build Workshop.16.00 4 to 6yrs after school drop off club.

Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN thebuilditworkshop.com

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 10.00, 10.45, 14.15, 15.00 Baby Ballet 2 to 4yrs; 15.45 Pre-primary ballet 4 to 5yrs.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

TALK WITH TASHA COMMUNICATION 10.00 0 to18mths; 11.00 18mths to 3yrs.

Mothercare, Kew Retail Park, TW9 4AD talkwithtasha.com 07973 860 051

LA CAPUCINE | FRENCH 10.00 French for under 4s.

Drink Me Eat Me, 250-252 King Street, W6 0SP lacapucine.co.uk

10.35 1½ to 2yrs 3mths; 11.30 2 to 3½ yrs. Check ahead as some classes have waiting lists.

Hogarth Community Centre, Duke Road, W4 2JR littlekickers.co.uk 07792 503 571

RHYME TIME 14.15 Under 5yrs.

Shepherds Bush Library, 6 Wood Lane, W12 7BF lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

LITTLE HANDS BABY SIGN BABY SIGN LANGUAGE FOR 0 t0 2yrs 09.45 Non-walkers; 10.45 NonWalkers Brentford Methodist Church Clifton Rd,TW8 0PB www.littlehandsbabysign.co.uk 07736 284474

CADENZA | MUSIC 10.00 Holy Innocents Church, Paddenswick Road, W6 0UB cadenzaclasses.com

ST NICHOLAS PLAYGROUP 10.00 Term-time only.

St Nicholas Church, Church Street, W4 2PH stnicholaschiswick.org 020 8580 3806

LA CAPUCINE | FRENCH

RHYME TIME

15.45 French for under 4s.

ByTheMoon, 69 Blythe Rd, W14 0PH lacapucine.co.uk

10.30 Under 5yrs.

Hammersmith Library, Shepherds Bush Road, W6 7AT lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

TUESDAYS

STORYTIME

THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS From 09.30 Various classes 4mths to 5yrs.

Hartington Road (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 9.15 2 to 5yrs Tiny Tots Tap & Modern; 15.00 2 to 4yrs Baby Ballet; 15.45 4 to 5yrs Pre-primary ballet.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

LA CAPUCINE | FRENCH 09.15 French for under 4s.

ByTheMoon, 69 Blythe Rd, W14 0PH lacapucine.co.uk

GYMBOREE From 09.30 Various classes.

Newborn to 5yrs.

Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN gymboree-uk.com/f/chiswick 07967 835 059

TWISTERS | GYM AND DANCE 09.30 2 to 3yrs Twisters 2; 10.30 3 to 4yrs Gymkids; 14.00 3 to 4yrs Ballet. All abilities.

Acton Baptist Church Hall, Church Rd, W3 8PP twisters.org.uk 020 8933 9997 / 020 8840 4452

10.30 Under 5yrs.

Shepherds Bush Library, 6 Wood Lane, W12 7BF bhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

STORY & RHYME TIME 10.45 Under 5yrs.

Askew Rd Library, Askew Rd, W12 9AS lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

TEMPO TOTS | MUSIC 14.30 3 to 18mths; 15.20 18mths to 4yrs.

Mothercare, Kew Retail Park, TW9 4AD tempo-tots-sw.com

GROVE PARK TODDLER GROUP 15.00-17.30 10mths to 3yrs.

Isis Rooms & Garden, St Paul’s Church, Grove Park Rd, W4 3SB groveparkplaygroup.org 020 8742 8293

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL 15.30 & 16.00 2 ½ to 4yrs Baby Ballet.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

CRAFT CLUB 15.45 3 to 11yrs. Term-time only.

Shepherds Bush Library, 6 Wood Lane, W12 7BF lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

KITE STUDIOS 16.00 1½ to 3yrs Art for Little Ones 2b Bassein Park Rd, W12 9RY kitestudios.org 020 8576 6278

WEDNESDAYS THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS From 09.30 Various classes 4mths to 5yrs.

Hartington Rd (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

HARTBEEPS | BABY MUSIC CLASS 09.30 Toddler/standing; 10.30 sitting to toddling; 11.30 newborn to sitting.

Crown & Anchor, Chiswick High Rd, W4 5TA hartbeeps.com

GYMBOREE From 09.30 Various classes. Newborn to 5yrs.

Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN gymboree-uk.com/f/chiswick 07967 835059

ANGELA GRANT SCHOOL OF DANCE 09.30 & 10.00 2 to 4yrs Baby Ballet.

Drink Me Eat Me, 250 - 252 King Street, W6 0SP balletclasseslondon.co.uk 07813 296221

TWISTERS | GYM AND DANCE 09.30 1 to 2yrs Twisters 1; 10.30 2 to 3yrs Twisters 2. All abilities.

Acton Baptist Church, Church Road, W3 8PP twisters.org.uk 020 8933 9997 / 020 8840 4452

MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN 09.45 0 to 2yrs; 10.30 2 to 3yrs Music and Movement.

The Music House for Children, 306 Uxbridge Rd, W12 7LJ musichouseforchildren.co.uk 020 8932 2652

CADENZA | MUSIC CLASS 09.45 Christ Church, Town Hall Avenue, W4 5DT cadenzaclasses.com

CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 33

BABIES AND PRE-SCHOOLERS ...WEDNESDAYS LITTLE ANGELS | TODDLER GROUP 10.00 Term-time only.

St Michael & All Angels Hall Priory Ave, W4 1TX smaaa.org.uk 020 8994 1380

WEST LONDON TWINS CLUB 10.00 St Stephen’s Church, St Stephen’s Road, W13 8HB westlondontwinsclub.org

LITTLE KICKERS | FOOTBALL 10.00 1½ to 2yrs 3mths; 11.00 2 to 3½ yrs; 15.30 3 ½ to 5yrs; 16.20 5 to 7yrs.

Hogarth Community Centre, Duke Rd, W4 2JR littlekickers.co.uk 07792 5035 71

PANDEMONIUM | MUSICAL WORKSHOP 10.30 0 to 24mths; 11.30 2 to 4yrs (term-time only) Watermans, 40 High Street, Brentford, TW8 0DS watermans.org.uk

BOOKTIME BABIES | READING & MESSY PLAY 11.15 & 14.30 Sitting age to 18mths.

St Michael’s Church, Elmwood Road, W4 3DY booktimebabies.co.uk

PARENTS & BABIES SCREENINGS CINEMA 11.30 Parents & carers with babies up to 1yr.

Watermans, 40 High Street, Brentford, TW8 0DS watermans.org.uk

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 14.15 2 to 5yrs Tiny Tots Tap & Modern; 15.00 2 to 4yrs Baby Ballet; 15.45 4 to 5yrs Pre-primary Ballet.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

CAROLINE LESTER SCHOOL OF DANCE 16.00 3 to 5yrs. Term-time only.

Dukes Meadow Community Hall, Alexandra Gardens, W4 2RX carolinelesterschoolofdance.co.uk 020 3673 9421

WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY 16.00 3yrs+ Baby Ballet. IDTA Accredited School.

St Michael and All Angels Parish Hall, Priory Avenue, W4 1TX westlondondanceacademy.com 07771 984 590

34 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

ANIMAL FU | PERFORMANCE MARTIAL ARTS

ANGELA GRANT SCHOOL OF DANCE

16.15 4 to 8yrs Kung Fu Fitness Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN animalfu.com 07984 707 777

15.45 2½ to 4yrs pre-school ballet.

Victoria Hall, Victoria House, Becklow Rd, W12 9HB www.balletclasseslondon.co.uk 07813 296 221

ALBERT & FRIENDS INSTANT CIRCUS | FAMILY CIRCUS SKILLS

AMANDA’S ACTION CLUB | FUN, FITNESS & MUSIC

16.30 15mths to 7yrs with parent.

Melcombe Primary School, Fulham Palace Road, W6 9ER albertandfriendsinstantcircus.co.uk 020 8237 1170/ 020 8237 1030

THURSDAYS THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS From 09.30 Various classes 4mths to 5yrs.

Hartington Road (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

GYMBOREE From 09.30 Various classes. Newborn - 5yrs.

Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN gymboree-uk.com/f/chiswick 07967 835 059

BABY SONG 09.30 Fortnightly playgroup with cake, play, bible story and singing time.

Play Café, Rockley Rd, W14 0DA stsimons.co.uk 020 7603 1418

MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN 10.30 Newborn Music.

The Music House for Children 306 Uxbridge Rd, W12 7LJ musichouseforchildren.co.uk 020 8932 2652

TWISTERS | GYM AND DANCE CLASSES 14.00 3 to 4yrs Gymkids. All abilities.

Acton Baptist Church, Church Rd, W3 8PP twisters.org.uk 020 8933 9997 / 020 8840 4452

HARTBEEPS | BABY MUSIC CLASS 14.30 Sitting; 15.30 Walking.

Drink Me Eat Me, 250 - 252 King Street, W6 0SP hartbeeps.com 0800 1488 266

TEMPO TOTS | MUSIC 14.30 3 to 18mths; 15.20 18mths to 4yrs.

Mothercare, Kew Retail Park, TW9 4AD tempo-tots-sw.com

15.45 with Amanda.

Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN amandasactionclub.co.uk 01895 623 999

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL 16.00 4 to 5yrs. Pre-primary Ballet.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 16.15 4 to 5yrs. Pre-primary Ballet.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

FRIDAYS THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS From 09.15 Various classes 4mths to 5yrs.

Hartington Rd (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

TWISTERS | GYM AND DANCE 09.15 6mths to 3yrs Drop-in gym; 10.30 3 to 4yrs Dance Drama.

Acton Baptist Church Hall, Church Road, W3 8PP twisters.org.uk 020 8933 9997 / 020 8840 4452

GYMBOREE From 09.30 Various classes. Newborn - 5yrs.

Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN gymboree-uk.com/f/chiswick 07967 835 059

CADENZA | MUSIC 09.30 Drink Me Eat Me, 250 - 252 King Street, W6 0SP cadenzaclasses.com

FRIDAY FRIENDS | PLAYGROUP 09.30 0 to 4yrs. Term-time only.

Gunnersbury Baptist Church, Wellesley Road, W4 4BE gunnersburybaptistchurch.org 020 8987 2965

AMANDA’S ACTION CLUB | FUN, FITNESS & MUSIC 09.45 & 10. 30 4mths to 4yrs; 11.30 4 to 12mths.

Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN amandasactionclub.co.uk 01895 623 999

PLAY MANDARIN 10.00 0 to 4yrs. 2nd & 4th Friday of the month.

Shepherds Bush Library, 6 Wood Lane, W12 7BF lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

KITE STUDIOS | ART 09.45, 10.45 & 13.45 18mths to 3yrs Art for Little Ones.

2b Bassein Park Road, W12 9RY kitestudios.org 020 8576 6278

MINI MULTIPLES | TWINS/TRIPLETS CLUB 10.00 Newborns to Under 5yrs.

Chiswick Children’s Centre, 9 Devonshire Street, W4 2AY younghounslow.info 020 8583 5603

MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN 10.00 0 to 2yrs; 10.45 2 to 3yrs Musical and Movement.

The Music House for Children, 306 Uxbridge Rd, W12 7LJ musichouseforchildren.co.uk 020 8932 2652

BABBLEBUGS | MUSIC 10.45 0 to 3yrs.

Drink Me Eat Me, 250 - 252 King Street, W6 0SP info@babblebugs.co.uk

CHISWICK LIBRARY STORYTIME 11.00 0 to 5yrs. Term-time only.

Dukes Avenue, W4 2AB hounslow.info 020 8994 1008

BABY BOUNCE 11.00 Stories & Rhymes.

Askew Road Library, 87/91 Askew Rd, W12 9AS lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3863

CROUCHING TIGER KARATE 16.00 4yrs+ Tiger Cubs Karate.

The Dukes Meadows Community Centre, Alexandra Gardens, W4 2RX crouchingtigerkarate.co.uk 07734 655 057

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 15.15 2 to 4yrs Baby Ballet.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

BABIES AND PRE-SCHOOLERS ...FRIDAYS A2ZEN | YOGA

LITTLE STAGE ACADEMY (PSSA)

16.00 All abilities.

Vihara Buddhist Centre, 309 - 311 The Avenue, W4 1UD a2ze.co 07979 533 750

10.45 2½ to 4yrs.

Westside Community School, 8-30 Galena Rd, W6 0LT pssa.co.uk 07943 656 092

SATURDAYS THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS From 08.30 Various classes 4mths to 5yrs.

Hartington Rd (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

LITTLE KICKERS | FOOTBALL 08.30 1½ to 2yrs 3mths; 9.15 2 to 3½ yrs; 10.15 & 11.15 3½ to 5yrs.

Hogarth Community Centre, Duke Road, W4 2JR littlekickers.co.uk 07792 503 571

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE

RHYME TIME 11.00 Under 5yrs.

Shepherds Bush Library, 6 Wood Lane, W12 7BF lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

WILL TO WIN | TENNIS 12.00 3 to 4yrs Mini Tots drop-in.

Will to Win Chiswick, Chiswick House Grounds (A4 Entrance), W4 2RP willtowin.co.uk/chiswick 020 8994 1466

ALBERT & FRIENDS INSTANT CIRCUS FAMILY CIRCUS SKILLS

09.15 4 to 5yrs Pre-primary Ballet; 10.45 2 to 5yrs Tiny Tots & Modern.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

10.30 15mths to 7yrs.

St Alban’s Hall, Margravine Rd, W6 8HJ albertandfriendsinstantcircus.co.uk 020 8237 1170 / 020 8237 1030

THE LITTLE FOXES CLUB MULTI-SPORT CLASSES

SUNDAYS

Football & Rugby Classes for children aged 18 months to 4 years.

10.00 - 11.00 & 11.00 - 12.00 Acton Park, Ravenscourt Park & Turnham Green thelittlefoxesclub.com 0207 376 0006

THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS

PARKOUR GENERATIONS FREE RUNNING

RICHMOND GYMNASTICS ASSOCIATION

10.00 1 to 6yrs (for parent & child).

Westminster Academy, 255 Harrow Road, W2 5EZ parkourgenerations.com

KIDDIKICKS | FOOTBALL 10.30 2½ to 3½ yrs Runners; 11.15 3.6 to 5yrs Racers.

April-October Kings House Sports Ground, W4 2RZ November-March at Brentford Fountain Leisure Centre, TW8 0HJ kiddikicks.co.uk 020 7937 7965

age range 18 months - 10 years

From 09.00 Various classes 4mths to 5yrs.

Hartington Rd (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

A safe and creative environment in which your child can thrive in their experience of sport and develop a love for playing the greatest game on earth!

Check us out on

Facebook + Twitter

for regular Competitions and Discount Codes @kiddikicks KiddikicksHQ

Try us for free

Kiddikicks Richmond, Chiswick, Kensington and Queens Park

CRB checked and FA qualified coaches Training sessions, courses and parties across London Quote CityKids for a FREE TRIAL

020 7937 7965 www.kiddikicks.co.uk

09.00 4yrs+ General class.

1 Townmead Road, Kew, TW9 4EL richmondgymnastics.co.uk 020 8878 8682

MINI BOARDERS SKATEBOARDING CLUB 14.30 4 to 5yrs.

Westway Sports Centre, 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP mylittleboarders.co.uk 07801 824 688

ITALIAN STORY TIME 10.30 Under 5yrs.

Hammersmith Library, Shepherds Bush Road, W6 7AT lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3820

ROCKS LANE | FOOTBALL COACHING 10.30 U4yrs A; 11.00 Under 4yrs B. 16 week terms. rockslane.co.uk 020 8994 1313

We do our very best to ensure all class details are accurate.

Please do call ahead or check websites if you wish to book a course.

CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 35

LITTLE KIDS (5 - 11) MONDAYS NUMBER WORKS’NWORDS | MATHS & ENGLISH TUITION From 15.00 daily incl Sat mornings.

86A Chiswick High Road, W4 1SY numberworksnwords.co.uk 020 8994 9168

KITE STUDIOS | ART 15.45 6 to 8yrs Young Art Studio.

2b Bassein Park Road, W12 9RY kitestudios.org 020 8576 6278

CHATTERBOOKS 15.45 8 to 12yrs Reading groups.

Once a month. Term-time only.

Askew Road Library, 87/91 Askew Rd, W12 9AS lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3863

HOMEWORK CLUB 15.45 Term-time only. Maths and English tutor provided by Hammersmith and Fulham Adult Learning & Skills Service.

Shepherds Bush Library, 6 Wood Lane, W12 7BF lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY 15.45 Preparatory Ballet; 16.15 Primary Ballet; 17.00 Grade 1 & 2 Tap; 17.45 Grade 3 Tap; 18.30 Grade 4 Ballet.

St Michael & All Angels Parish Hall, Priory Avenue, W4 1TX dancerweb.co.uk/wlda 07771 984 590

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL 16.00 4 to 5yrs Pre-Primary Ballet; 16.30 7 to 9yrs Grade 2 Ballet; 17.30 9 to 11yrs Grade 4 Ballet.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

ARCH 197 | DANCE 16.00 5yrs+ RAD Primary Ballet; 17.00 & 18.00 6 to 10yrs Street Dance.

Prebend Gardens, Stamford Brook, W6 0XT arch197.com 020 8987 8788

KUMON ACTON CENTRAL MATHS AND ENGLISH 16.00 St Mary’s Church Hall, 1 The Mount, W3 9NW kumon.co.uk 020 8998 3379

WESTWAY CLIMBING | INDOOR CLIMBING 16.00 5 to 6yrs Tiny Tots; 16.30 7 to 14yrs Junior.

Westway Sport Centre, 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP westwaysportscentre.org.uk 020 8969 0992

THE BUILD IT WORKSHOP 16.00 4 to 6yrs after school drop off club.

Chiswick Town Hall, Heathfield Terrace, W4 4JN thebuilditworkshop.com

POP SCHOOL & STAGE ACADEMY 16.15 7 to 11yrs Junior. Commercial Street Jazz.

Westside Community School, 8-30 Galena Road, W6 0LT pssa.co.uk 07943 656 092

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 16.30 5 to 7yrs Primary Ballet; 17.15 8 to 10yrs Grade 2 Ballet; 18.15 10 to 12yrs Grade 4 Ballet.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

SONG ACADEMY | SONGWRITING 16.30 8 to11yrs.

Arts Educational Schools London, Cone Ripman Hse, 14 Bath Rd, W4 1LY songacademy.co.uk 07710 023 743

CARLSON GRACIE JUDO 16.30 7 to 12yrs.

89 Richford Street, W6 7HJ carlsongracieteam.org.uk 020 8748 8855

WE MAKE FOOTBALLERS 17.00 4 to 7yrs; 18.00 8 to12yrs.

Chiswick School, Burlington Lane, W4 3UN wemakefootballers.com 020 7148 1602

ALBERT & FRIENDS INSTANT CIRCUS | FAMILY CIRCUS SKILLS 17.30 8yrs+ general circus skills.

St Alban’s Hall, Margravine Rd, W6 8HJ albertandfriendsinstantcircus.co.uk 020 8237 1170 / 020 8237 1030

ILYEO TAEKWONDO CLUB 18.00 5yrs+ Beginners welcome.

Russian Orthodox Church, Harvard Road, W4 4ED ilyeotaekwondo.com 07872 932 223

20th-chiswick-scouts.blogspot.co.uk

36 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

LITTLE KIDS (5-11) ...MONDAYS 20TH CHISWICK SCOUT GROUP SCOUT GROUP 18.30 6 to 8yrs Beavers.

Term-time only.

The Ranch, Chiswick House Car Park, Ellesmere Rd, W4 2QN

TUESDAYS CRAFT CLUB 15.45 3 to11yrs Craft Club. Termtime only. 50p per child.

Shepherds Bush Library, 6 Wood Lane, W12 7BF lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

LITTLE STAGE ACADEMY 15.45 5 to 7yrs.

Drink Me Eat Me, 250 - 252 King Street, W6 0SP pssa.co.uk 07943 656 092

LITTLE LUMIS | YOGA 16.00 6-11yrs 121 King Street, W6 9JG lumipoweryoga.com/little-lumis 020 8846 8504

BADGER & EARL | KNITTING 16.00 Kids learn to knit classes.

14a Sutton Court, W4 4NG badgerandearl.com

TWISTERS | GYM AND DANCE 16.00 4 to 5yrs Gym 1; 16.50 5 to 6yrs Gym 2; 17.40 7yrs+ Gym 3.

Acton Baptist Church Hall, Church Rd, W3 8PP twisters.org.uk 020 8933 9997 / 020 8840 4452

PLEASING DANCE SCHOOL OF BALLET 16.15 Primary; 16.45 Grade 1.

Hammersmith Christian Fellowship Hall, Dalling Rd ,W6 pleasingdance.co.uk 020 7794 0905

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 16.30 5 to 7yrs Primary Ballet; 17.15 7 to 9yrs Grade 1 Ballet.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY 16.30 Grade 2 Ballet; 17.15 Grade 3 Ballet.

St Michael & All Angels Parish Hall, Priory Avenue, W4 1TX dancerweb.co.uk/wlda 07771 984 590

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL

16.30 5 to 6yrs Primary Ballet; 17.00 7 to 8yrs Grade 1 exam class.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

16.00 2½ to 4yrs Baby Ballet.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

CANALSIDE ACTIVITY CENTRE | YOUTH CENTRE WITH WATERSPORTS 16.30 9yrs+ Canal Close, W10 5AY rbkc.gov.uk

POETRY CLUB 16.45 Hammersmith Library, Shepherds Bush Rd, W6 7AT lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3820

KITE STUDIOS | ART 17.00 7yrs+ Stitch & Print 2b Bassein Park Rd, W12 9RY kitestudios.org 020 8576 6278

JUNIOR NETBALL AT WILL TO WIN 17.00 9 to 11yrs.

Will to Win Chiswick House Grounds (A4 Entrance), W4 2RP willtowin.co.uk

ST PAUL’S FENCING CLUB 17.30 8-10yrs+ boys and girls.

Lonsdale Rd, SW13 9JT stpaulsfencingclub.com 07961 061 662

THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS 18.00 6 to 12yrs Flips/Hot shots beginner.

Hartington Rd (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

WEDNESDAYS KUMON SHEPHERDS BUSH | MATHS AND ENGLISH 15.30 St Stephen’s Church Hall, Coverdale Rd, W12 8JJ kumon.co.uk 020 3002 0735

KITE STUDIOS | ART 15.40 4 to 6yrs Nature to Numbers - Art in a Story; 16.30 9yrs+ Young Art Studio.

2b Bassein Park Rd, W12 9RY kitestudios.org 020 8576 6278

KUMON OLYMPIA | MATHS AND ENGLISH 15.45 Masbro Centre, 87 Masbro Rd, W14 0LR kumon.co.uk 020 3397 8581

KUMON ACTON CENTRAL | MATHS AND ENGLISH 16.00 St Mary’s Church Hall, 1 The Mount, W3 9NW kumon.co.uk 020 8998 3379

WESTWAY CLIMBING 16.00 5 to 6yrs Tiny Tots; 16.30 7 to 14yrs Junior.

Westway Sport Centre, 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP westwaysportscentre.org.uk 020 8969 0992

PLEASING DANCE SCHOOL OF BALLET 16.15 Grade 1; 17.00 Grade 3.

Hammersmith Christian Fellowship Hall, Dalling Rd ,W6 0EU pleasingdance.co.uk 020 7794 0905

TWISTERS 16.15 4 to 5yrs Ballet.

Acton Baptist Church, Church Rd, W3 8PP twisters.org.uk 020 8933 9997/ 020 8840 4452

LITTLE KICKERS | FOOTBALL 16.20 5 to 7yrs.

Hogarth Community Centre, Duke Rd, W4 2JR littlekickers.co.uk 07792 503 571

STORY TIME

CARLSON GRACIE BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU 16.30 7 to 12yrs.

89 Richford Street, W6 7HJ carlsongracieteam.org.uk 020 8748 8855

CAROLINE LESTER SCHOOL OF DANCE 16.30 4 to 6yrs; 17.15 6yrs+ Primary Ballet; 17.45 Grade 1 Ballet; 18.30 Grade 2 Ballet; 19.15 Grade 4 Ballet. Term-time.

Dukes Meadow Community Hall, Alexandra Gardens, W4 2RX carolinelesterschoolofdance.co.uk 020 3673 9421

WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY 16.30 Preparatory Ballet; 17.00 Primary Ballet.

St Michael & All Angels Parish Hall, Priory Avenue, W4 1TX dancerweb.co.uk/wlda 07771 984 590

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL 17.00 Modern & Tap Grade 2.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

ALBERT & FRIENDS INSTANT CIRCUS 17.45 8yrs+ Beginner/Intermediate aerial skills.

Melcombe Primary School, Fulham Palace Rd, W6 9JR albertandfriendsinstantcircus.co.uk 020 8237 1170 / 020 8237 1030

THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS

16.30 5 to 8yrs term-time only.

Shepherds Bush Library, 6 Wood Lane, W12 7BF lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3842

17.15 6 to12yrs Twisters/Hot shots Intermediate; 18.15 6 to12yrs Aerials Int/Advanced Hartington Rd (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

ANGELA GRANT SCHOOL OF DANCE

KUNG FU KIDS YMAA ORIENT SPORT

16.00 6yrs Primary; 16.30 7yrs Grade 1; 17.00 Grade 2; 17.45 Grade 3; 18.30 Grade 7.

St Dunstan’s Hall, Friar’s Place Lane, W3 7AW balletclasseslondon.co.uk 07813 296 221

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 15.45 4 to 5yrs Pre-primary ballet; 16.30 8 to 11yrs Grade 3 Ballet.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

17.30 St Stephen’s Community Hall, 34 Gayford Rd, W12 9BY orientsport.co.uk 07824 603 261

THE LITTLE FOXES CLUB | TENNIS CLASSES 17.00 - 18.00 Tennis Classes from 5 to 12yrs.

Brook Green Tennis Courts thelittlefoxesclub.com 0207 376 0006

CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 37

LITTLE KIDS (5-11) WEDNESDAYS PARKOUR GENERATIONS FREERUNING 17.00 7yrs+ Youth outdoor.

Various locations. Check website for latest venue. parkourgenerations.com

20TH CHISWICK SCOUT GROUP 18.30 6 to 8yrs Beavers. 18.45 8 to 10½ yrs Cubs. Term-time only.

The Ranch, Chiswick House Car Park, Ellesmere Rd, W4 2QN 20th-chiswick-scouts.blogspot.co.uk

THE 3RD CHISWICK CUB PACK SCOUT GROUP 18.45-20.00 boys and girls 8 to 10½ yrs. Term-time only.

Scouthaven, Wilson Walk, Prebend Gardens, W4 1PT 3rdchiswickscouts.co.uk 07771 964 312

THURSDAYS ART CLUB 15.35 every two weeks.

Hammersmith Library, Shepherds Bush Rd, W6 7AT bhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3820

KITE STUDIOS | ART 16.00 5yrs+ Create in Clay. 17.15 9yrs+ Portfolio into secondary.

2b Bassein Park Rd, W12 9RY kitestudios.org 020 8576 6278

SONG ACADEMY | SONGWRITING 16.00 8 to 11yrs.

Holy Trinity Church, Brook Green, W6 7BL songacademy.co.uk 07710 023 743

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL 16.00 4 to 5yrs Pre-Primary Ballet; 16.30 5 to 6yrs Primary Ballet; 17.00 8 to 9yrs Grade 3 Ballet.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

TWISTERS 16.00 4 to 5yrs Gym 1; 16.50 5 to 6yrs Gym 2; 17.40 7yrs+ Gym 3.

Acton Baptist Church Hall, W3 8PP twisters.org.uk 020 8933 9997 / 020 8840 4452

HAYA | YOUTH THEATRE 16.15 8 to12yrs voice & speech training, audition technique, stage combat...

Watermans, 40 High Street, TW8 0DS watermans.org.uk

38 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

ANGELA GRANT SCHOOL OF DANCE 16.15 4-5 yrs Pre-primary; 16.45 6yrs+ Primary; 17.15 7yrs+ Grade 2; 18.00 Grade 4; 16.45 Grade 5.

St Dunstan’s Hall, Friar’s Place Lane, W3 7AW balletclasseslondon.co.uk 07813 296 221

GAMES CLUB 16.30 5yrs+ (under 8’s must be accompanied by an adult).

Askew Road Library, 87/91 Askew Rd, W12 9AS lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3863

FOUCAN FREERUNNING ACADEMY 16.30 7yrs+ Beginners; 17.30 7yrs+ Intermediates Oxygen Freejumping, Vision Ind Park, Kendal Ave, W3 0AF foucan.com/ffa

WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY | BALLET & TAP 16.45 Grade 1 Ballet; 17.30 Primary Tap; 18.15 Grade 4 Tap. St Michael & All Angels Parish Hall, Priory Avenue, W4 1TX dancerweb.co.uk/wlda 07771 984 590

WE MAKE FOOTBALLERS 17.00 4-7yrs; 18.00 8-12 yrs Chiswick School, Burlington Lane, W4 3UN wemakefootballers.com 020 7148 1602

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 17.00 8yrs+ Grade 2 Tap & Modern; 18.15 9yrs+ Grade 3 Tap & Modern.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

CROUCHING TIGER KARATE 17.00 6 yrs+ Crouching Tiger Shotokan Karate, 18.00 8 yrs+.

St. Michael’s Church, Elmwood Road, W4 3DZ crouchingtigerkarate.co.uk 07734 655 057

HOMEWORK CLUB 17.00 Term-time only. Maths and English tutor provided by Hammersmith and Fulham Adult Learning & Skills Service.

Hammersmith Library, Shepherds Bush Rd, W6 7AT lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3820

THE 3RD CHISWICK BEAVER COLONY | SCOUT GROUP 17.40 boys and girls 6 to 8yrs.

Term-time only.

Scouthaven, Wilson Walk, Prebend Gardens, W4 1PT 3rdchiswickscouts.co.uk 07845 299 179

THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS 17.45 6 to12yrs Twisters/Hot shots Beginner; 18.45 6 to12yrs Twisters/ Aerials Intermediate/Advanced.

Hartington Rd (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

FRIDAYS KUMON OLYMPIA | MATHS AND ENGLISH 15.45 Masbro Centre, 87 Masbro Rd, W14 0LR kumon.co.uk 020 3397 8581

CROUCHING TIGER KARATE 16.00 4yrs+ Tiger Cubs Karate £90; 16.30 & 17.15 6yrs+ Crouching Tiger Shotokan Karate.

The Dukes Meadows Community Centre, Alexandra Grdns, W4 2RX crouchingtigerkarate.co.uk 07734 655 057

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 16.00 5 to 7yrs Primary Tap & Modern; 17.00 7yrs+ Grade 1 Tap & Modern.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

KITE STUDIOS | ART CLASSES

STAGECOACH KENSINGTON 16.15 4 to 6yrs Early Stages; 16.30 6yrs+ Main School.

Addison Primary School, Addison Grdns, Blythe Rd, W14 0DT stagecoach.co.uk/kensington

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL 16.30 6 to 8yrs Grade 1 Ballet; 17.15 Irish.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891 / 07771 905 226

LOVE IT PERFORMING ARTS 16.30 4 to 8yrs & 9 to14yrs. The Salvation Army Hall, 21-23 Dalling Rd, W6 0JB loveitperformingarts.co.uk 07595 470 865

THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS 17.00 6 to12yrs Flips/Hot shots Beginner; 18.00 6 to12yrs Twisters/Aerials Intermediate/Advanced.

Hartington Rd (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

WILL TO WIN | TENNIS 17.00 8 to 14yrs Junior social.

Drop-in.

Will to Win Chiswick, Chiswick House Grounds (A4 Entrance), W4 2RP willtowin.co.uk 020 8994 1466

PARKOUR GENERATIONS FREE RUNNING 18.45 7yrs+ Westminster Academy, 255 Harrow Rd, W2 5EZ parkourgenerations.com

16.00 5yrs+ Art in Spanish.

2b Bassein Park Rd, W12 9RY kitestudios.org 020 8576 6278

SATURDAYS

WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY

09.00 5 to 8yrs; 09.45 8 to 9yrs; 10.30 10yrs; 11.30 11yrs. All year.

Ravenscourt Park Tennis Courts, W6 0UA ontheballtennis.co.uk 07813 163 430

16.15 Grade 2 Ballet; 17.00 Grade 3 Ballet; 17.45 Intermediate Ballet.

St Michael & All Angels Parish Hall, Priory Avenue, W4 1TX dancerweb.co.uk/wlda 07771 984 590

STAGECOACH CHISWICK 16.15 4 to 6 yrs Early Stages dance, drama and singing; 16.30 6 to 18yrs Main Stages.

Strand on the Green School, Thames Rd, W4 3NX stagecoach.co.uk 020 3394 0818

ONTHEBALLTENNIS WITH MAHMUDA

EXCEL SPORTS SOCCER SCHOOL 09.00 4 to 5yrs; 09.30 6 to 7yrs; 10.30 8yrs+.

University of Westminster Sports Ground, Hartington Rd, W4 3UH 07956 151 559

LITTLE KIDS (5-11) ...SATURDAYS CHISWICK SATURDAY MUSIC CENTRE

KITE STUDIOS | ART

WILL TO WIN

ILYEO TAEKWONDO CLUB

09.10 all ages. Individual & group music lessons.

Chiswick School, Burlington Lane, W4 3UN (Staveley Road entrance) chiswicksaturdaymusic.org.uk 07513 012 373

10.00 7yrs+ Young Art Studio.

2b Bassein Park Road, W12 9RY kitestudios.org 020 8576 6278

10.00 8 to 10yrs Mini Orange drop in; 11.00 10 to 11yrs Green drop-in & Yellow; 12.00 3 to 4yrs Mini Tots & 5 to 8yrs Mini Red. Will to Win Chiswick, Chiswick House Grounds (A4 Entrance), W4 2RP willtowin.co.uk 020 8994 1466

11.00 5yrs+ Beginners welcome.

Russian Orthodox Church, Harvard Rd, W4 4ED ilyeotaekwondo.com 07872 932 223

KIDDIKICKS LIGA SOCCER 09.15 5 to 8yrs.

April to October at King’s House Sports Ground, W4 2RZ November to March at Brentford Fountain Leisure Centre, TW8 0HJ kiddikicks.co.uk

KEW PARK RANGERS 09.15 Under 4/5yrs and Under 10yrs Boys; 11.00 Under 10yrs Girls.

September to May. North Sheen Recreation Ground, North Road, Kew, TW9 4HA kewparkrangers.co.uk 020 8940 9882

CENTRE STAGE WORKSHOPS 09.30 8 to 11yrs.

Tabard Theatre, 2 Bath Rd, W4 1LW tabardtheatre.co.uk 020 8995 6035

STAGECOACH CHISWICK 09.30, 11.30, 14.00 & 15.30 4 to 6yrs Early Stages. 10.00 & 14.30 Main Stages (6 to18yrs) Saturdays.

William Hogarth School, Duke Rd, W4 2JR stagecoach.co.uk 020 3394 0818

STAGECOACH KENSINGTON 09.30, 11.15, 14.00, 15.45 4 to 6yrs Early Stages; 10.00 & 14.30 6yrs+ Main Stages.

St Barnabas & St Philips School, 58 Earl’s Court Rd, W8 6EJ stagecoach.co.uk/kensington

WE MAKE FOOTBALLERS 09.30 9 to12yrs; 10.30 4 to 6yrs; 11.30 7 to 8yrs.

Chiswick School, Burlington Lane, W4 3UN wemakefootballers.com 020 7148 1602

MINI ENGINEERS | LEGO CONSTRUCTION 09.30 5 to 8yrs Our Wonderful Planet; 11.00 6 to11yrs Intro to Mini Machines.

Imperial College London, Exhibition Rd, SW7 2AZ mini-engineers.com

THE LITTLE FOXES | MULTI-SPORT CLASSES 10.00 & 11.00 5 to 6yrs Cheeky Foxes & 7 to12yrs Super Foxes.

The green opposite Turnham Green Church thelittlefoxesclub.com 020 7376 0006

ESTA | THEATRE SCHOOL 10.00 6 to 17yrs. Term-time only.

Ravenscourt Park Prep, 16 Ravenscourt Avenue, W6 0SL estatheatreschool.com 020 8741 2843

YOURSPACE | DRAMA & DANCE 10.00 6 yrs+ Termly themes. St Augustine’s Priory, Hillcrest Rd, W5 2JL yourspacedrama.com 07580 474 638

THEATRE STUDIO WEST 10.00 6 to 9yrs TSW Stage; 10 to13yrs TSW Youth Company.

Acton Baptist Church, Church Rd, W3 8PP theatrestudiowest.co.uk 020 8616 8846

FOUCAN FREERUNNING ACADEMY 10.00 7yrs+ Beginners.

Oxygen Freejumping, Vision Ind Park, Kendal Ave, W3 0AF www.foucan.com/ffa

SEWING MACHINE SKILLS

YOURSPACE | DANCE & DRAMA 10.00 6yrs+ drama and/or dance.

Termly themes.

St Augustine’s Priory, Hillcrest Rd, W5 2JL yourspacedrama.com 07580 474 638

ALBERT & FRIENDS INSTANT CIRCUS 10.30 15mths to 7yrs Family Circus skills; 11.30 8yrs+ General Circus skills; 13.15 Beginner/Intermediate Aerial skills.

St Alban’s Hall, Margravine Rd, W6 8HJ albertandfriendsinstantcircus.co.uk 020 8237 1170 / 020 8237 1030

PARKOUR DANCE 10.30 6yrs+ Youth academy.

Watermans, 40 High Street, Brentford, TW8 0DS parkourdance.co.uk

BADGER & EARL | SEWING & CRAFT 11.00 Sewing Machine Skills including cutting and measuring fabric.

All materials supplied.

Badger & Earl, 14a Sutton Court Rd, W4 4NG badgerandearl.com 020 8994 0205

10.00 9yrs+ Introduction to using sewing machine. Progress to Bigger Kids Sewing club and bring your project in for step by step help.

14a Sutton Court Rd, W4 4NG badgerandearl.com

CANALSIDE ACTIVITY CENTRE YOUTH CENTRE WITH WATERSPORTS

PARKOUR GENERATIONS

CHATTERBOOKS

10.00 1 to 6yrs.

Moberly Sports Centre Kilburn Lane, W10 4AH parkourgenerations.com

POP SCHOOL & STAGE ACADEMY 10.00 7 to 11yrs PSSA Junior Stage Academy; 11.00, 11.30 & 13.00 5 to 6yrs Little Stage Academy; 13.00 7 to 11yrs Junior commercial jazz.

Westside Community School, 8-30 Galena Rd, W6 0LT pssa.co.uk 07943 656 092

11.00– 9yrs+. All day.

Canal Close, W10 5AY www.rbkc.gov.uk 10.45 8 to 12yrs. Reading groups.

Meet once a month. Term-time only.

Askew Road Library, 87/91 Askew Rd, W12 9AS lbhf.gov.uk (see Libraries) 020 8753 3863

THE BAND PROJECT 11.00-13.00 & 14.00-17.00 8 to11yrs live performance and band-based course.

Arch 196, Prebend Gardens, W6 0XT thebandproject.co.uk 07771 456 955

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 11.30 5 to 8yrs Gymnastic Aerobics; 12.15 9yrs+ Gymnastic Aerobics.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

LITTLE KICKERS 12.10 5 to 7yrs.

Hogarth Community Centre, Duke Rd, W4 2JR littlekickers.co.uk

ZEBRA SKATE | INLINE SKATING & SKATEBOARDING 13.00 5yrs+ lessons include all protective gear and equipment.

Chiswick School Community Hall, Staveley Rd, W4 3HU zebraskate.co.uk 020 3287 5283

THE LITTLE GYM | GYMNASTICS 14.30 6 to12yrs Flips/Hot shots Beginner; 15.30 6 to12yrs Twisters/ Aerials Intermediate/Advanced.

Hartington Rd (off A316), W4 3AN thelittlegym.eu/chiswick 020 8994 3729

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL 15.45 Preparatory Grade 1.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

THAMES YOUNG MARINERS (TRAINING CENTRE) Sailing courses for beginners Dinghy level 1 to Youth Sailing Scheme Level 4. Powerboat courses for 8 to 11yrs.

Riverside Drive, Ham, TW10 7RX 01372 378 901

CARLSON GRACIE GRAPPLE AND STRIKE 11.00 7 to 12yrs wrestling Jiu-jitsu and kick boxing.

89 Richford Street, , W6 7HJ carlsongracieteam.org.uk 020 8748 8855

CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 39

LITTLE KIDS (5-11) SUNDAYS LET’S PLAY NETBALL

CHISWICK RFC JUNIORS

GRASSHOPPERS RFC

09.00 6 to 8yrs; 10.00 8 to 10yrs.

Chiswick School, Burlington Lane, W4 3UN letsplaynetball.co.uk

10.00 4 to13yrs boys and girls.

Dukes Meadows, Dan Mason Drive, W4 2SH chiswickrugby.co.uk/juniors

LONDON WELSH MINIS

WASPS MINIS

10.00 4yrs+ knee highs & U7-U12 boys and girls.

Macfarlane Lane, off Syon Lane, Osterley, Middx grasshoppersrfc.com 020 8568 0010

09.45 U6-U12 London Welsh RFC, The Old Deer Park, Kew Rd, Richmond londonwelshminis.org 020 8940 2368

10.00 4yrs+ girls and boys Twyford Avenue Sports Ground, Twyford Ave, W3 9QA pitchero.com/clubs/waspsfootballclub/ 020 8993 8384

HAMMERSMITH & FULHAM RFC 10.00 5yrs+ Little Hammers, U7-U12 training and match play.

Hurlingham Park fulhamrugby.co.uk 020 7381 5064

AERIALAND | YOUTH CIRCUS SCHOOL 14.30 9 to 12yrs.

8-30 Galena Rd, W6 0LT aerialand.com 07737 624 296

MIDI & MAXI BOARDERS SKATEBOARDING CLUB 14.30 6yrs + Intermediate and advanced.

Westway Sports Centre, 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP mylittleboarders.co.uk 07801 824 688

10 QUESTIONS ANNA BRI TTON I S TE NNI S DEVELOPME NT MANAGER

FOR

THE

JUNIOR

TENNIS

P R O G R A M M E AT D U K E S M E A D O W S What’s your first sporting memory? I used to be a show jumper but, when I was ten, I kept going wrong in the jump offs. Then one day, when I was number 13, and entered the ring 13th, I completed a perfect round and won the competition and never went wrong again.

When did you first pick up a racquet? When I was eight, my father used to take my sister and I to a local court to play.

Why should kids play tennis? Any sport is great for children but as tennis is an individual sport it teaches self-control and good hand eye co-ordination. It’s also easier to organise a hit with your friend than a team game.

Who’s your sporting hero? Sir Steven Redgrave What makes a good children’s coach? Patience and the ability to find ways to help children understand what you are teaching as they learn

What’s your favourite sports film? Senna

in different ways. Lessons should be fun and coaches should listen to the children too.

How do you think the kids you coach would describe you? I actually asked one of my players as I thought it would be interesting to hear her

What’s the difference between coaching kids and adults? Tennis can be

answer! It was nice to hear when she said ‘enthusiastic, encouraging,

quite a frustrating sport for both! When coaching children it is important

inspiring, supportive, firm and crazy, are just a few words that come to mind’.

to find what works for the individual. Adults can understand a little quicker but, if they have picked up bad habits, it can be much harder to

What’s so great about the Dukes Meadows tennis programme? We

change technique .

support performance juniors who want to pursue a career in tennis, as well as kids who want to play for fun. Our programmes cover mini tennis

What’s the funniest moment you’ve had on a tennis court? One time

all the way through the later junior years. We’ve produced players who

when I was taking a lesson and standing in the ready position, a toddler

have gained a junior world ranking, and seniors that have played at

walked through my legs!!

Wimbledon.

40 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

BIG KIDS (11+) MONDAYS NUMBER WORKS’NWORDS | MATHS & ENGLISH From 15.00 daily, incl Sat mornings.

86A Chiswick High Rd, W4 1SY numberworks.co.uk 020 8994 9168

WESTWAY CLIMBING 16.30 7 to 14yrs Junior. After school sessions.

Westway Sport Centre, 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP westwaysportscentre.org.uk 020 8969 0992

HOGARTH YOUTH AND COMMUNITY CENTRE INTERMEDIATES CLUB 17.00 Years 7, 8 and 9.

Duke Rd, W4 2JR hogarthtrust.org.uk 020 8747 1999

KITE STUDIOS | ART 17.15 GCSE & A-Level Portfolio Projects.

2b Bassein Park Rd, W12 9RY kitestudios.org 020 8576 6278

CARLSON GRACIE JUDO 17.15 13 to 17yrs.

89 Richford Street, W6 7HJ carlsongracieteam.org.uk 020 8748 8855

SONG ACADEMY | SONGWRITING 17.30– 12 to 16yrs.

Arts Educational Schools London, Cone Ripman House, 14 Bath Rd, W4 1LY songacademy.co.uk 07710 023 743

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL 18.00 Grade 7 Ballet.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

HOGARTH YOUTH AND COMMUNITY CENTRE SENIOR CLUB 18.45 11 yrs+.

Duke Rd, W4 2JR hogarthtrust.org.uk

20TH CHISWICK SCOUT GROUP 19.45 14 to18yrs Explorers.

The Ranch, Chiswick Hse Car Park, Ellesmere Rd, W4 2QN 20th-chiswick-scouts.blogspot.co.uk

TUESDAYS

CARLSON GRACIE BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU 16.30 13 to 17yrs.

89 Richford Street, W6 7HJ carlsongracieteam.org.uk 020 8748 8855

KITE STUDIOS

W4LACROSSE CLUB

THE 3RD CHISWICK SCOUTS

17.00 Stitch & Print for Duke of Edinburgh skills.

2b Bassein Park Rd, W12 9RY kitestudios.org 020 8576 6278

18.30 11yrs+ Term time only Astro pitches, Hartington Rd (By Roko) W4 3UH info@w4lacrosse.com

PARKOUR GENERATIONS FREERUNING

BE DANCE

19.00 10 to14yrs Scouts boys and girls; 20.00 14 to18yrs Explorers.

Term-time only.

Scouthaven Wilson Walk, Prebend Gdns, W4 1PT 3rdchiswickscouts.co.uk 07976 520 747

17.00 11yrs+ Youth outdoor.

Various locations. Check website for latest venue. parkourgenerations.com

NEW DANCE VENTURES CONTEMPORARY DANCE 17.30 11yrs+ Free flowing dance delivering strength, balance & coordination.

Grove Park Studios, W4 3HR 07766 816 308

FOUCAN FREERUNNING ACADEMY 17.30 11 to 16yrs Beginners; 18.30 Intermediates; 19.30 14yrs+ Intermediate/Advanced.

Oxygen Freejumping, Vision Ind Park, Kendal Ave, W3 0AF foucan.com/ffa

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL 18.00 12yrs+ Intermediate Class.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

WESTWAY CLIMBING 18.00 12 to 18yrs.

Westway Sport Centre, 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP westwaysportscentre.org.uk 020 8969 0992

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 18.15 11yrs+ Grade 5 Ballet.

The Hayloft 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY 18.00 Advanced 1 Ballet.

St Michael & All Angels Hall Priory Ave, W4 1TX dancerweb.co.uk/wlda 07771 984 590

ARCH 197 | DANCE CLASSES 18.30 14yrs+ Sam McAvoy’s Master Class.

Prebend Gardens, W6 0XT arch197.com 020 8987 8788

20.30 16yrs+ Be Adults. Beginners and Keep Fit. Fitrooms, 254-258 North End Rd, SW6 1NJ bedance.co.uk 07545 697 352

WEDNESDAYS WESTWAY CLIMBING 16.30 7 to 14yrs Junior. After school sessions. 18.30 12 to 18yrs.

Westway Sport Centre 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP westwaysportscentre.org.uk 020 8969 0992

HOGARTH YOUTH AND COMMUNITY CENTRE INTERMEDIATES CLUB 17.00 Years 7, 8 and 9.

Duke Rd, W4 2JR hogarthtrust.org.uk 020 8747 1999

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 17.30 11yrs+ Intermediate Ballet; 18.30 11 yrs+ Grade 6 Ballet.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond St, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312662

WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY

CHISWICK SEA CADET UNIT SAILING & ADVENTURE TRAINING 19.00 12 to18yrs boys and girls.

The Pier House Chiswick Pier, Corney Reach, W4 2UG sea-cadets.org/chiswick 020 7654 7000

THURSDAYS CARLSON GRACIE BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU 16.30 13 to 17yrs.

89 Richford Street, W6 7HJ carlsongracieteam.org.uk 020 8748 8855

CANALSIDE ACTIVITY CENTRE 16.30 9 to19yrs. Youth Centre with watersports.

Canal Close, W10 5AY rbkc.gov.uk

SONG ACADEMY | SONGWRITING 17.00 12 to16yrs.

Holy Trinity Church, Brook Green, W6 7BL songacademy.co.uk 07710 023 743

WILL TO WIN | TENNIS

17.45 Grade 5 & Intermediate Tap; 18.30 Grade 5 Ballet.

St Michael & All Angels Hall Priory Ave, W4 1TX dancerweb.co.uk/wlda 07771 984 590

17.00 9 to 14 yrs mini tennis green/ challenger.

Will to Win Chiswick, Chiswick House Grounds (A4 Entrance), W4 2RP willtowin.co.uk 020 8994 1466

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL

ACTON BALLET SCHOOL

18.00 Pointe work beginners; 18.30 Grade 4 dances.

Ruskin Hall 16 Church Rd, Acton, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

18.00 Grade 5 Ballet; 19.00 Grade 5 Pointe work/dances.

Ruskin Hall, 16 Church Rd, W3 8PP actonballetschool.co.uk 020 8992 6891

HOGARTH YOUTH & COMMUNITY CENTRE SENIOR CLUB

19.30 10½ to14yrs Scouts.

The Ranch, Chiswick House Car Park, Ellesmere Rd, W4 2QN 20th-chiswick-scouts.blogspot.co.uk

18.45 11yrs+.

Duke Rd, W4 2JR hogarthtrust.org.uk 020 8747 1999

20TH CHISWICK SCOUT GROUP

CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 41

BIG KIDS (11+) FRIDAYS STAGECOACH CHISWICK

THEATRE STUDIO WEST

THE BAND PROJECT

EALING RUGBY CLUB

16.30 6 to18yrs Main Stages.

Strand on the Green School, Thames Rd, W4 3NX stagecoach.co.uk 020 3394 0818

10.00 10 to13yrs TSW Youth Company; 14 to19yrs TSW Senior Company.

Acton Baptist Church, Church Rd, W3 8PP theatrestudiowest.co.uk 020 8616 8846

11.00 - 13.00 & 14.00 - 17.00 11 to 16yrs Live performance and band based course.

Arch 196, Wilson Walk, Stamford Brook thebandproject.co.uk 07771 456 955

10.00 U13+ Girls and boys all standards up to county level.

Trailfinders Sports Club, Castle Bar, Vallis Way, West Ealing, W13 0DD ealingrugby.co.uk 07941 861 293

ESTA | THEATRE SCHOOL

CANALSIDE ACTIVITY CENTRE

10.00 7 to18yrs term-time.

Ravenscourt Park Prep, 16 Ravenscourt Ave, W6 0SL estatheatreschool.com 020 8741 2843

11.00 9 to19yrs. Youth centre with watersports.

Canal Close, W10 5AY rbkc.gov.uk

STAGECOACH KENSINGTON 16.30 6 to16yrs Main School.

Addison Primary School, Addison Grdns, Blythe Rd, W14 0DT stagecoach.co.uk/kensington

WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY 17.45 Intermediate Ballet.

St Michael & All Angels Hall, Priory Avenue, W4 1TX dancerweb.co.uk/wlda 07771 984 590

WESTWAY CLIMBING 18.00 12 to 18yrs.

Westway Sport Centre, 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP westwaysportscentre.org.uk 020 8969 0992

FRANCES LUNDY SCHOOL OF DANCE 18.00 11yrs+ Senior Tap & Modern.

The Hayloft, 3 Bond Street, W4 1QZ franceslundyschoolofdance.co.uk 07956 312 662

HAYA | YOUTH THEATRE 18.15 13 to18yrs voice & speech training, audition technique, stage combat and more.

Watermans, 40 High Street, TW8 0DS thehuntacademy.co.uk

PARKOUR GENERATIONS | FREE RUNNING 18.45 7 to19yrs.

Westminster Academy, 255 Harrow Rd, W2 5EZ parkourgenerations.com

SATURDAYS CHISWICK SATURDAY MUSIC CENTRE 09.10 All ages. Individual & group music lessons.

Chiswick School, Burlington Lane, W4 3UN (Staveley Road entrance) chiswicksaturdaymusic.org.uk 07513 012 373

WESTWAY CLIMBING | INDOOR CLIMBING 9.30, 10.30, 12.30, 16.00, 16.30, 18.00 12 to 18yrs. £176 per term.

Westway Sport Centre, 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP westwaysportscentre.org.uk 020 8969 0992

42 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

STAGECOACH CHISWICK 10.00 & 14.30 6 to18yrs.

William Hogarth School, Duke Rd, W4 2JR stagecoach.co.uk 020 3394 0818

STAGECOACH KENSINGTON 10.00 & 14.30 6 to 18yrs Main Stages.

St Barnabas & St Philips School, 58 Earl’s Court Rd, W8 6EJ stagecoach.co.uk

YOURSPACE | DRAMA AND DANCE 10.00 11 to 16yrs drama and/or dance. Termly themes.

St Augustine’s Priory, Hillcrest Rd, W5 2JL www.yourspacedrama.com 07580 474 638

FOXES FC DEVELOPMENT SQUAD | FOOTBALL 10.00 - 12.00 Football training, match play & tournaments for children.

Ravenscourt Park, the North lawn, near the astro turf pitches. foxesfc.com 0207 376 0006

WILL TO WIN | TENNIS 10.00 12 to 16yrs Challenger drop-in.

Will to Win Chiswick, Chiswick House Grounds (A4 Entrance), W4 2RP willtowin.co.uk 020 8994 1466

FOUCAN FREERUNNING ACADEMY 11.00 11yrs+ beginners.

Oxygen Freejumping, Vision Ind Park, Kendal Ave, W3 0AF foucan.com/ffa

WESTWAY CLIMBING 10.30,16.30,18.00 12 to 18yrs.

Westway Sport Centre, 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP westwaysportscentre.org.uk 020 8969 0992

MIDI & MAXI BOARDERS SKATEBOARDING CLUB 14.30 6yrs + Intermediate and advanced.

Westway Sports Centre, 1 Crowthorne Rd, W10 6RP mylittleboarders.co.uk 07801 824 688

BRENTFORD ARMY CADET FORCE ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITIES

CENTRE STAGE WORKSHOPS 11.30 12 to 16yrs.

Tabard Theatre, 2 Bath Rd, W4 1LW tabardtheatre.co.uk 020 8995 6035

POP SCHOOL & STAGE ACADEMY PERFORMING ARTS 12.00 12 to16yrs Senior Stage Academy.

Westside Community School, 8-30 Galena Rd, W6 0LT pssa.co.uk 07943 656 092

Take part in adventurous activities like rock climbing, mountain biking, archery and abseiling. Learn military skills such as drill, shooting and fieldcraft.

203 Brentford (RLC) Cadet Centre, Windmill Rd, W5 4BT 203brentfordacf.co.uk 020 8568 6044

THAMES YOUNG MARINERS

SUNDAYS CHISWICK SEA CADET UNIT SAILING & ADVENTURE TRAINING 10.00 Alternate Sundays. 12 to18yrs boys & girls.

The Pier House, Chiswick Pier, Corney Reach, W4 2UG sea-cadets.org/chiswick 020 7654 7000

Sailing courses for beginners Dinghy level 1 to Youth Sailing Scheme level 4. Powerboat courses for 8 to 11yrs.

Riverside Drive, Ham, Richmond, TW10 7RX surreycc.gov.uk/outdoorlearning 01372 378 901

PARKOUR 10.30 11yrs+ Youth academy.

Watermans, 40 High Str, Brentford, TW8 0DS parkourdance.co.uk

GET LISTED! IF YOU WANT YOUR CLASSES INCLUDED IN OUR DIRECTORIES PLEASE CONTACT editor@citykidsmagazine.co.uk

PARTIES PARTY VENUES THE LITTLE GYM CHISWICK University of Westminster Sports Ground Hartington Road, W4 3AN www.thelittlegym.co.uk 020 8994 3729 Games, music and fun activities

THE PARK CLUB East Acton Lane, W3 7HB www.theparkclub.co.uk 020 8743 4321 Parachute play, sports and themed parties

VIRGIN ACTIVE ACTON 36 Bromyard Avenue, W3 7AU www.virginactive.co.uk 020 8600 9600 Softplay & pool parties

BRENTFORD FOUNTAIN LEISURE CENTRE 658 Chiswick High Road, Brentford, TW8 0HJ www.fusion-lifestyle.com 0845 456 6675 Softplay & pool parties

WESTWAY SPORTS CENTRE 1 Crowthorne Road, W10 6RP www.westwaysportscentre.org.uk 020 8969 0992 Football, tennis, climbing parties

NEW CHISWICK POOL Edensor Road, W4 2RG www.fusion-lifestyle.com 0845 456 6675 Pool parties

ARUSH King’s House School Sports Ground, Riverside Drive, W4 2SH www.arush.co.uk 07773 775 445 Outdoor Laser Combat

ARCH 197

GAMBADO CHELSEA

ST PETER’S CHURCH PARISH ROOM

ST MARY’S CHURCH HALLS

Townmead Road, SW6 2PY www.gambado.com/clubs/chelsea/ 020 7384 1635 Tiger Tots, Tiger, Laser Tag and Build a Bear parties

Black Lion Lane, W6 9BE www.stpetersw6.org 020 8741 4848

1 The Mount, Acton High Street, W3 9NW www.stmaryacton.org.uk/ the-church-halls 020 8993 0422

AERIALAND

158 Rainville Road, W6 9HN www.rockingscots.co.uk/Dorsetwharfcommunityhall.html 07880 840 692

8-30 Galena Road, w6 0LT www.aerialand.com 07737 624 296 Aerial circus and acrobatics skills

HALLS FOR HIRE 3RD CHISWICK SCOUTS Wilson Walk, Off Prebend Gardens, Stamford Brook, W4 1PT 07947 354 554

Macbeth Street, W6 9JJ www.hfals.co.uk (under Room Hire)

CORINTHIAN SAILING CLUB

ST PAUL’S CHURCH

07949 268 378 Vintage Tea Parties & China Hire for birthdays, garden parties, baby showers etc.

SPRINKLED MAGIC

Queen Caroline Street, W6 9PJ www.sph.org/hiring 020 8748 3855

07525 708578 www.sprinkledmagic.co.uk Bespoke cupcakes and cakes for all occasions, plus a wide Free From range. Delivery nationwide available.

THE PIER HOUSE Corney Reach Way, W4 2UG www.chiswickpier.org.uk 020 8742 2713

PICCOLO PLAY CENTRE Hogarth Youth Centre, Duke Road, W4 2JR www.piccoloplaycentre.co.uk 07525 773 659

ST PAUL’S CHURCH 56 Grove Park Rd, W4 3SB www.stpaulsgrovepark.com 020 8994 3074

CHISWICK SCHOOL Burlington Lane, W4 3UN www.chiswickschool.org 020 8747 6699

SNAKES AND LADDERS

2 Dukes Avenue, W4 2AE 020 8994 9905

136 Bramley Road, W10 6TJ www.bramleysbig.co.uk 020 8960 1515 Soft play, various packages

SUGAR ROSE

MACBETH CENTRE

ST MICHAEL AND ALL ANGELS

ALL SAINTS CHURCH

BRAMLEY’S BIG ADVENTURE

Friars Place Lane, W3 7AW www.stdunstanschurch.org.uk 020 8740 1383

SUPPLIES

Holy Innocents Church, Paddenswick Road, W6 0UB 020 8741 3230

Elmwood Road, W4 3DY www.stmichaels-elmwoodroad.org Priory Avenue, W4 1TX www.smaaa.org.uk 020 8994 1380

ST DUNSTAN’S EAST ACTON

JORDANS NURSERY

66 Upper Mall, W6 9TA www.linden-house.org 020 8748 1841

ST MICHAEL’S CENTRE

Prebend Gardens, W6 0XT www.arch197.com 020 8987 8788 Street Dance Syon Park, Brentford, TW8 8JF www.snakes-and-ladders.co.uk 020 8847 0946 Soft play

DORSET WHARF COMMUNITY HALL

Bollo Bridge Road, W3 8AX bookings@actongreen.org

CHISWICK CATHOLIC CENTRE

MASBRO CENTRE 87 Masbro Road, W14 0LR www.upg.org.uk 020 7605 0800

GROVE NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE 7 Bradmore Park Road, W6 0DT 020 8741 3321

New website with more features, news and activities www.citykidsmagazine.co.uk

CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 43

HOLIDAY CLUBS TO THE RESCUE PERFORMING ARTS ARTS ED

Chiswick | 4-16yrs Drama, musical performances, improv & imaginative play. www.artsed.co.uk

POP & STAGE SCHOOL ACADEMY

Chiswick | 4-18yrs Themed week-long camps. www.pssa.co.uk

PERFORM

Shepherd’s Bush & Chiswick | 4-12yrs Drama, dance and singing. www.perform.org.uk

SONG ACADEMY

Brook Green | 8-12yrs Write, produce, perform and record a song. www.songacademy.co.uk

THE ROYAL INSTITUTE OF BRITISH ARCHITECTS W1 | 7-18yrs Design workshops. www.architecture.com

SPORT WILL TO WIN

Chiswick & Barnes | 4-16yrs Week-long tennis camps. www.willtowin.co.uk

THE LITTLE GYM CHISWICK

Chiswick | 3-12yrs 3 hour themed camps. www.thelittlegym.co.uk/chiswick

SPORTS GENERATION

Richmond | Various ages Swimming and football crash courses. www.sportsgeneration.co.uk

WESTWAY SPORTS CENTRE

Holland Park | 4-16yrs Tennis, football and climbing. www.westwaysportscentre.org.uk

SKATEBOARDING CLUB

Westway / Westminster Academy / Royal Oak | 6yrs+ www.mylittleboarders.co.uk

EALING RIDING SCHOOL

Ealing | 5yrs+ Riding & stable management days. www.ealingridingschool.biz

TEAMSPORT IN ACTON Acton | 8yrs+ Karting www.team-sport.co.uk

MULTI-ACTIVITY CHISWICK COURSES

DUKES MEADOWS

MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN

Shepherds Bush | Various ages www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk

Chiswick | 5yrs+ Golf & Tennis camps www.dukesmeadows.com

Acton | 5-16yrs Film-making, fashion, street dance, cookery, Lego and entrepreneur workshop. www.chiswickcourses.co.uk

THEATREBUGS CHISWICK

THE LITTLE FOXES CLUB

LET ME PLAY

XBAND STUDIO SCHOOL OF ROCK POP AND MORE

ON THE BALL TENNIS

ROYAL INSTITUTION

Chiswick | 4-14yrs www.chiswicktheatrearts.com

EXCEL SPORTS CAMPS

MAD SCIENCE

ART & DESIGN

FIT FOR SPORT

Chiswick | 3½-6yrs Acting, singing, dressing up. www.theatrebugs.co.uk

Ealing | 8-18yrs www.xbandstudio.com

CHISWICK THEATRE ARTS

BADGER & EARL

Chiswick | All ages Sewing & craft www.badgerandearl.com

FUN WITH FIMO CLAY

Acton | 6yrs+ www.funwithfimoclay.co.uk

KITE STUDIOS

Shepherd’s Bush | Various ages Arts and crafts. www.kitestudios.org

BRITISH FILM INSTITUTE South Bank|8-14yrs Half-term workshops. www.bfi.org.uk

YOUNG FILM ACADEMY

Chelsea, St John’s Wood, Wimbledon | 8-19yrs 1- 4 day courses in film-making www.youngfilmacademy.co.uk 44 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

Acton, Chiswick & H’smith | 18mths - 12yrs Football, Tennis & Rugby Classes all throughout the Summer holidays. www.thelittlefoxesclub.com - 0207 376 0006 Ravenscourt Park | 5-15yrs Daily drop-in tennis camp. www.ontheballtennis.co.uk Chiswick | 4-12yrs www.excelsports.org.uk Chiswick, Acton, Barnes | 3-12yrs www.fitforsport.co.uk

HARTSWOOD TENNIS CLUB

Hammersmith | 11-19yrs Free activities including dance, drama, sport, cookery, art, fashion and music. www.letmeplaysports2.moonfruit.com Mayfair | 7yrs+ Various science-based workshops. www.rigb.org.uk Various locations | 4-11yrs www.madscience.org.uk

TREEHOUSE LEARNING

Ham | 3-10yrs+ Forest school and bushcraft. www.treehouselearning.co.uk

Chiswick | 5-15yrs Drop-in holiday camps. www.hartswoodtennis.co.uk

BEAR GRYLLS SURVIVAL ACADEMY

HEATHROW GYMNASTICS

PICCOLO PLAYCENTRE

Hounslow | 4-12yrs All abilities. www.heathrowgymnastics.org.uk

RICHMOND GYMNASTICS

Kew | 5-16yrs www.richmondgymnastics.co.uk

ROCKS LANE

Chiswick | 4-16yrs Multi sports and football. www.rockslane.co.uk

Ealing & Barnes| 8-12yrs www.beargryllssurvivalacademy.com Chiswick | 4-11yrs www.piccoloplaycentre.co.uk

HIGH FLIERS

Ealing | 4-11yrs Themed fun weeks which include creative writing, ICT, scientific enquiry and sports team-building. www.high-fliers.org.uk

Boutique

EMI & NELL

MUDDY PUDDLES

Emi & Nell is a London-based boutique offering a unique clothing destination for kids and a great range of décor items too! Founded by a mum with a passion for fashion, Monika, this shop aims to bring you a fresh, individual style of clothing and accessories. They carefully select the highest quality items from a small number of exclusive designers, bringing you pieces from brands such as nosweet, Kids on the moon and Pola&Frank. They look for the finest organic fabrics so that your little treasures not only look cool but feel comfortable too!

This time we speak to father of three Luca Romagnoli, who with his partner, Marie-Louise, runs Danish

Practical: our clothes are made with parents and children in mind, from reflective strips and grippy soles to secret pockets and storm flaps.

Protective: Our clothes are 100% waterproof, windproof and durable, enabling kids to get outdoors and stay warm, dry and happy whatever the weather.

Passionate: we firmly believe in the benefits of outdoor play and learning, and have created a series of free outdoor events and activity sheets to facilitate this for parents, teachers and children.

www.muddypuddles.com

“

We were working in the fashion business when we created Popupshop. We felt a need for a more unisex collection with focus on form

brand, Popupshop. Known for its

and function. It was really important to us that there was transparency in production, and where the fabrics were made.

animal

Our AW15 collection introduces a lot of new fabrics, prints and styles

prints,

Popupshop

prides

itself on high quality, affordable, organic cotton collections..

and, as always, a focus on really soft organic fabrics. New for this season are our winter jackets. Our children love our collections, especially the flower print for the girls and African print for the boys.

A typical day has a lot of different of assignments. When you have your own business you need to attend to a lot of different areas from PR to the design process to budgets.

You learn a lot on the way and you do make mistakes but sometimes some of the really great things wouldn’t have happened if you’d planned them. We have learned that you need to be able to take a break once in a while to maintain the joy, creativity and ambition in what you are doing.

When you run your own business you really work a lot! [Amen to that!]

Advice to anyone thinking of starting a business? Just do it and follow your gut feeling. Be prepared to let someone with more experience look at the project and give advice. But in the end what drives the business will be your ambition and motivation.

In five years, I hope we’re still doing this. As long as we have fun and we can manage to find a balance with our personal lives.

www.popupshop.net

“

BRAND FOCUS

Emi & Nell created their shop based on the belief that no matter what you do you can always look fabulous. So whether you’re after functional clothing, exclusive accessories or gifts with a real wow factor, Emi & Nell have you covered with perfectly chic yet practical items that both you and your little ones will love. www.emiandnell.co.uk

There is no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong kit. Muddy Puddles makes great value, technical outdoor clothes for children. Our mission is to clothe the world’s young adventurers. Playing outdoors leads to bigger imaginations, better concentration, amazing memories and healthier bodies We are:

CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK 45

PEOPLE

AARON CRAZE WE ST LONDON B ORN A ND BRED, HE HAS C OME A LONG WAY SINC E HI S DYSFUNC TI ONA L SC HOOL DAYS. D I SC OVERED BY JAMIE OLIVER AT F IF TEE N, HE NOW PRE SE NTS THE BBC’S JUNI OR BAKE OFF A ND WILL BE APPEA RING AT THE CAKE A ND BAKE SHOW IN OC TOBER. WORDS Victoria Evans

About School

we’ll spend time with my sister and their cousin with a take away and movies. I’m away so much that I like just spending time with them and catching up.

I wasn’t very good at school. I was talking to my daughters who love school and they asked what my last day was like, but I don’t think I even turned up!

Because I have dyslexia, I couldn’t get on at school, they thought that I was being disruptive. I had a good time with my friends but academically I couldn’t do it.

About his Last Supper I’d invite UB40, Bob Marley, Ricky Gervais, Chris Martin and probably Jennifer Lawrence. We’d eat a roast leg of lamb.

About Fifteen About West London eating

It changes you, you become more responsible, more punctual because you have to be on time and you have responsibility in the kitchen. You have to clean up as a person and become organised. It gave me a career where you can work anywhere in the world.

I love to grab some Ochi at Shepherd’s bush with my daughters. If I was looking for a restaurant, I like Italian, so I’d go to La Famiglia in Chelsea.

About the Cake and Bake Show I’m doing an interactive class, where I’m making Portuguese tarts; on the Live Stage I’ll be making a lemon curd tart; and I’m also doing a Masterclass for Cannoli and Chocolate Marquise.

About Jamie Oliver He has a lot of energy, he’s honest, and there’s never been a scandal with him.

He’s a good guy, a hard worker and he cares about people and issues so he puts everything into it. He’s a person to look up to and a good role model.

For Aaron’s Cauliflower Crème Brûlée recipe go to www.citykidsmagazine.co.uk

About TV If I hadn’t got into cooking I wouldn’t be doing tv. I have two different lives, and I’ve been around the world – I’m pretty lucky.

I’m flying to the Philippines shortly to film The Amazing Food Challenge for the Asian Food Channel. It’s like Masterchef but with lots of adventure.

About working with children on Junior Bake Off I have children so it’s easy for me. Kids have good imaginations and they always have something to say. When I was a kid no one really did baking with us but now they just know what they’re doing. They’ve got their own recipes - it’s really impressive.

About weekends with his kids We like to go for a bike ride by the river from Putney to Barnes or 46 CITYKIDSMAGAZINE.CO.UK

COMPETITION

The Cake and Bake Show 2015 takes place at London Excel 2-4th October.

We have 5 pairs of tickets to give away. To be in the draw email editor@citykidsmagazine.co.uk with Bake in Subject line. Good luck! Terms & Conditions apply.

See www.citykidsmagazine.co.uk for more details.

Foucan Freerunning Learn from the founder of freerunning and pioneer of Parkour, Sebastien Foucan in his new Academy home at Oxygen Freejumping in Acton. Â Sebastien shares his skills and ethos in a fun playful environment. You will learn to move and think like a cat!

Classes at Oxygen Freejumping for 7 year olds through to adults. Beginners and intermediate level, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Book online at oxygenfreejumping.co.uk

For more information email: academy @foucan.com or visit: foucan.com

Lancing College

CHARTERHOUSE

CANFORD

SANCTON WOOD SCHOOL

The

Falcons

Meet the big names of British education At the Independent Schools Show, 200 of the leading schools gather for a weekend in Battersea Park to meet prospective pupils. This is the UK’s biggest school open day.

There is no better place to choose a school that is exactly right for your child’s needs. Meet the Heads and talk to the Admissions teams. Find out about entrance requirements, scholarships & bursaries. Register.

Unquestionably this will be the most productive time your family will ever spend in a park.

www.schoolsshow.com

Saturday 14 November 10:00 - 17:00 Sunday 15 November 11:00 - 16:30 Battersea Evolution, Battersea Park, London, SW11 4NJ