Happy new [school] year! Much as I don’t look forward to the earlier alarm calls and the school run, I do like an opportunity to regroup and reset, with positive intentions for the next few months. Even after all these years, the whirlwind of returning to routine is always a surprise, but we hope our Autumn issue brings you a few moments of peace amidst the chaos.
As always, we’ve packed this issue with plenty of inspiration and resources. Our What’s On calendar includes 27 family-friendly activities in London, ensuring your days are filled with fun. For those planning a family getaway, our trips pages offer ideas for unforgettable trips. Food lovers will enjoy our mouth-watering food news and recipes from Jo Pratt and Romina Bertinazzo. And if you’re looking to rework your living space, we have expert advice on creating a family home which looks great and works for everyone.
And of course, don’t miss our schools supplement, created in association with The Good Schools Guide, designed to help you navigate the school system with a smile on your face and a spring in your step.
To receive our newsletters, please sign up via our website citykidsmagazine.co.uk
Founder & Editor-in-Chief
Victoria Evans editor@citykidsmagazine.co.uk
Design
Caroline Haye info@navalisdesign.com
Contributors
Eleonore Crompton Jo Pratt Ellie Thompson
Rose Wyatt
COVER IMAGE
Goldie + Ace goldieandace.com
we love
CLEVER POCKET TONIES
tonies® has introduced a new educational range called ‘Clever Pocket Tonies,’ designed to ignite curiosity and discovery in pre-schoolers through to Key Stage 1. Covering a wide variety of topics such as natural history, phonics, maths, emotions and mindfulness techniques, Clever Pocket Tonies will keep young minds engaged and entertained. Featuring a unique magnetic stackable design, the collection debuts with an exciting selection of titles from the Natural History Museum and Big Bright Feelings with Maths Magic from Rachel Riley due for release in September.
Single Tonies
£8.99, 4-piece set, £19.99 tonies.com/en-gb
RUGGABLE X GOOP
This exciting new collaboration blends Ruggable’s practical, stylish approach to home decor with Goop’s signature luxurious aesthetic. This washable rug collection features modern Spanish revival and Indian Dhurrie influence. The Elin Stripe Rug in Indigo or Latte Cream would look great in any kids’ room or nursery. From £119 ruggable.co.uk
REMARKABLE REMNANTS
Remnant Revolution is a new brand that rescues fabric from landfills to create unique homeware perfect for gifting. These super chic mini aprons for girls are made from cotton fabric. They have front pockets and a simple tie at the back for a sweet bow. Available in sizes 2-8 years. £35 remnantrevolution.co.uk
DO THE FLOSS
Floss & Rock is a single-use, plastic-free company, and its new range of backpacks are wipe-free, eco-friendly and fully recyclable. These bags are the perfect size for carrying all their important stuff and are great for back-to-school, jet-setting adventures and more. They are available in a range of fun, bold prints. £24 flossandrock.co.uk
SOOTHING SLEEP
This super soft, organic cotton glowing teddy bear from UK-based independent online store Ando is perfect for helping little ones feel safe at bedtime. It features seven light settings, five soothing natural sounds, a lullaby and a Smart Cry Detector setting for newborns. This soft toy night light is a brilliant choice for older children who struggle to self-settle or are afraid of the dark. £60 andostores.com
MAPPED OUT
Meet the UK-based illustration studio creating detailed and engaging city maps for kids. Map My Love transforms cityscapes into colourful, informative visuals packed with unique features and hidden gems mini explorers will love. From £10. Bespoke options available. mapmylove.co.uk
all month until 8 September until 8
SIX THE MUSICAL
Vaudeville Theatre sixthemusical.com
Hear from the wives of Henry VIII as they turn back the clock and take to the stage to reclaim their crowns and retell their stories of love and loss.
IAN BERRY: THE SECRET GARDEN
Garden Museum gardenmuseum.org.uk
Walk through the denim garden path of a secret urban garden and find roses, wisteria dangling vines and a fish pond made of recycled jeans.
FANTASTICALLY GREAT WOMEN WHO CHANGED THE WORLD
The Other Palace theotherpalace.co.uk
Follow the inquisitive Jade in the smash hit musical as she breaks away from her class to take a peek behind the scenes at the local museum, meeting some incredible historic figures along the way.
GREENWICH + DOCKLANDS INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL Various festival.org until 8 20 20 & 21
DINO SNORES
Natural History Museum nhm.ac.uk
Watch free outdoor theatre, performance arts, dance and circus, all set in historic landmarks and public spaces.
Explore the museum after dark and have a night full of exploration and adventure.
Riverside at Lower Thames Street thecityofldn.com 22 22
THAMES DAY
Celebrate the life and soul of the capital’s river, with a programme of free activities for the whole family to enjoy.
DINOSAUR ULTIMATE FAMILY RAVE Fabric bigfishlittlefishevents.com
Unleash your inner dinosaur and get roarsome at the iconic family day rave.
SUITCASE CIRCUS
Puppet Theatre Barge, Richmond tickettailor.com
Hop on board a floating theatre and enter a chaotic world full of charming talented objects.
28 & 29
HARVEST FESTIVAL
Chiltern Open Air Museum coam.org.uk
Discover the traditions of our farming history, see sheep dogs in actions and have a go at apple pressing.
APPLE DAY
Fulham Palace fulhampalace.org
Celebrate the orchard harvest with garden games, apple-themed crafts, and a stallholder market. 6 6, 13, 20 & 27
DISCOVER SUNDAYS
18 TRICKS AND TREATS
SEA LIFE London Aquarium visitsealife.com
Splash into the aquarium to discover spooky creatures that lie beneath the surface and solve some Halloween challenges.
Complete drawing challenges at this drop-in workshop and add your masterpieces to a giant mural at the museum.
National Maritime Museum rmg.co.uk
Explore the collection led by an artist facilitator, who will introduce you to objects, people, histories and cultures represented within the collection.
THE UGLY DUCKLING
Sadler’s Wells sadlerswells.com
Head on a series of adventures at a ballet that tackles themes of social acceptance and liking yourself.
AND WORLD BUILDING Design Museum designmuseum.org
Inspired by Tim Burton’s films, create your own architectural models and fantastical scenery.
RUG RHYMES
National Poetry Library southbankcentre.co.uk
Get snug as a bug while puppets Federico and Firebird share some of their favourite poems, nursery rhymes and rhyming stories.
Tiptoe through the dark winding corridors and courtyards and explore Henry VIII’s notoriously haunted palace at the spookiest time of the year.
Join three friends on a joyful jungle trip at a musical adaptation of the much-loved books by David McKee.
until 3 3 November 8 & 15
DINOSAUR REVOLUTION
Horniman Museum horniman.ac.uk
Explore the relationship between dinosaurs and birds in a colourful exhibition featuring five large animatronic models and accurate cast fossil skeletons and skulls.
CHRISTMAS AT KEW
YOU CHOOSE
Artsdepot artsdepot.co.uk
Using the smash hit picture book as inspiration, every show is unique with different characters, locations and costumes, as chosen by the audience each time.
SINGING, STORY AND CRAFTS
London Transport Museum ltmuseum.co.uk
Unleash your imagination with interactive singing and storytelling, and weave your way through a maze of railway tunnels or soar over London’s iconic landmarks.
Kew Gardens kew.org from 13 to 16 16 & 17
See the botanical gardens transform into a magical winter light trail full of festive cheer.
DOGS DON’T DO BALLET
Little Angel Theatre littleangeltheatre.com
The best selling book about a small dog with a big personality is brought to life using puppets, ballet music and theatrical comedy.
LET’S GET CREATIVE
Orlean House Gallery orleanshousegallery.org
Join a creative family activity at the contemporary art gallery and enjoy painting, sketching or crafts.
ROOM ON THE BROOM
Lyric Theatre nimaxtheatres.com from 22 from 23 from 30
Jump on board the broom with the witch and her cat in the stage adaptation of the best-selling picture book.
RAYMOND BRIGGS’ FATHER CHRISTMAS
Lyric Hammersmith lyric.co.uk
Join Santa as he awakes from a dream of sun, sea and sand only to find it is the busiest day of the year –Christmas Eve.
ROBIN HOOD & THE CHRISTMAS HEIST Rose Theatre rosetheatre.org
Deep in the forest, legendary outlaw Robin Hood plots an audacious scheme to bring some festive joy to all.
Win A Prize Bundle of Pip and Posy Goodies!
Pip and Posy are the best of friends whose lives revolve around a wonderful world of play. Packed with warmth and humour, the series is a joyful celebration of their great friendship with all its ups and downs, laughter and games
To celebrate their new toy range we are giving away a super bundle of Pip and Posy goodies
The bundle includes:
Pip or Posy Talking Plush from Bandai - crafted with premium soft velboa plush material, ensuring maximum snuggly comfort this is perfect big cuddly toy for playtime and bedtime, complete with sounds and phrases from the beloved TV show, including a clip of the theme song.
Pip and Posy 4 in a Box Jigsaw Puzzle from Ravensburger - a set of bright, colourful jigsaw puzzles inspired by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's wonderful books
4 Pip and Posy books from Nosy Crow - snuggle up for storytime or activity time with these simple but engaging books. Watch Pip and Posy on Milkshake, My 5 and Sky Kids!
Ts & Cs: The winner will receive the following:- 1x Talking Plush (either Pip or Posy), 1 x Pip and Posy 4 in a Box Puzzle, and 4 x Pip and Posy books (titles selected at random). One winner will be selected at random. Product imagery not to scale.
To enter head to citykidsmagazine.co.uk/competitions
This AW collection from Goldie Ace features reimagined classics from the 80s and 90s, inspired by our favourite childhood memories. With durability and comfort in mind, all garments are expertly designed and ethically made ready for the next adventure. + +
THE WONDER YEARS
“An
ode to simpler times; time spent roaming and exploring the streets with your mates, climbing trees.”
“A time where the biggest decision was to choose between a Wizz Fizz or a candied necklace.”
Life
INTERIORS p18 JO PRATT RECIPES p54
WRITE, DREAM, CREATE
Inspired by The National Literacy Trust, My First Smythson is a vibrant diary designed for children aged 8–11 to foster creativity and a love for writing. Bound in tangerine orange Panama leather with rainbow ribbons, it’s filled with engaging activities and colourful prompts. smythson.com
BUILDING THE FOUNDATIONS FOR SUCCESS
Wetherby School Kensington, nestled in the heart of central London, is an exceptional independent pre-prep school for boys aged 4-8. Renowned for its outstanding educational standards, the School cultivates confident, joyful learners, fosters lifelong friendships, and paves the way to prestigious schools.
www.wetherby-kensington.co.uk
Welcome to our 2024 Schools Supplement, your go-to guide for all things education in London and beyond.
Inside, you’ll discover our essential School Directory—a comprehensive map of London’s educational landscape, covering everything from pre-preps to prestigious secondary schools. With help from The Good Schools Guide, finding the ideal school for your child is made that bit easier.
We’re also thrilled to bring you expert advice from The Good Schools Guide on navigating the complexities of schooling in London. With so many choices and financial considerations, we’re here to help you uncover the opportunities that can shape your child’s future.
After there’s more! We have expert advice for parents of children with ADHD and autism ahead of a potentially overwhelming start to the school year.
So, take some well-deserved time out, and tuck in!
Founder & Editor-in-Chief Victoria Evans editor@citykidsmagazine.co.uk
CONTENTS
Wetherby Prep
In print and online
MIX AND MATCH: A VERY LONDON APPROACH TO EDUCATION
MELANIE SANDERSON, Managing Editor at goodschoolsguide.co.uk
With the Government committed to adding VAT to private school fees, choosing to pay for independent school all the way through, from finger painting to Freshers’ Week, will stretch even the most well-heeled budgets. This is particularly the case in London where higher salaries soon get consumed by bigger living costs, weightier mortgages and, of course, more expensive school fees. You’ll be lucky to get change from £350,000 – and that’s in today’s money; average annual London day school fees in 2024 were over £21,500 and the figure goes up every year, generally at a rate outstripping inflation. Taking uniform, trips, transport and other extras into account, an exclusively private education is moving beyond the reach of many London families on top of their already hefty outgoings, but is it feasible to mix and match state and private? Melanie Sanderson, Managing Editor at Good Schools Guide lays out the options.
STATE TIL EIGHT
‘State ‘til eight’ is a popular option in London. If you’re fortunate enough to live in a borough with good state primaries - most London primaries are objectively good - and you had the foresight to buy (or rent) a house within a stone’s throw, it could be considered foolish not to take advantage of a free education. Benefits include your child’s friends likely living close by and a short stroll to school is a great way to start the day.
If your child is either extremely able (or conversely has learning difficulties or an EHCP), then this may well be a good option for your child and your bank balance will thank you for it too. However, children in the middle of the academic spectrum may find that what they need to progress at the right rate is harder to come by at a busy primary school and if you’re considering moving into the independent sector at secondary level your child may need additional tutoring. Be warned however; tuition for 11+ assessments (for both private and grammar school entry) is
rampant in London and the more experienced tutors are often booked up years in advance.
PREP FOR A STATE SECONDARY GRAMMAR
If you have your eyes on one of London’s 19 fiercely academic grammars such as Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet, Nonsuch High School for Girls or Henrietta Barnett, paying for a prep through to year 6 may help prepare them for the cut-throat entrance exams. A word of caution here; if you feel your child doesn’t have the raw material to compete all the way at this level, the private route might be a more comfortable one for the child.
MOVING TO A LONDON STATE SCHOOL FOR 6TH FORM
London is home to an impressive set of state sixth forms. Whether it is a grammar or comprehensive which has a fresh, academicallyselective intake after GCSEs (such as Tiffin School or Brampton Manor respectively) or a standalone 6th form (like Harris Westminster and London Academy of Excellence), Londoners are these days able to access highly academic and ambitious sixth form education which can be tempting for parents with dwindling cash reserves and children at private school.
Sometimes a move after GCSE is an opportunity for a pupil to make a fresh start and can revitalise interest in academic work; a move from single sex to co-ed can also be a source of motivation. Catchment areas become more flexible at this level, as do religious schools’ requirements of church attendance. Some state educated pupils might also consider a move into a private sixth form at this stage if they have a particular area of focus the state sector doesn’t cater for.
You can find more information on choosing a school on our website and our London school experts are also on hand to help if you need further help or advice.
www.chepstowhouseschool.co.uk
HIGHFIELD AND BROOKHAM SCHOOL UNVEILS YEAR 5 SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME
Highfield and Brookham School has unveiled a scholarship award for pupils in Year 5. The allrounder scholarship offered from September 2025 is designed to recognise exceptional children who have a positive attitude to learning and demonstrate phenomenal abilities in and out of the classroom.
The aim is to develop well-rounded individuals who can thrive in a variety of environments, giving scholarship recipients the chance to explore a diverse range of subjects and activities, including art, music, sport and drama, rather than being pigeon-holed into just one area of expertise.
Suzannah Cryer, Head of Highfield and Brookham, said: “Our holistic approach allows scholarship recipients to explore a diverse range of subjects and activities, discovering their true passions and strengths, allowing them to evolve over time. This not only supports their academic growth but also fosters the development of essential skills, such as problem solving, creativity, and adaptability. Rather than limiting children to a specific academic or extra-curricular focus, our allrounder scholarship encourages children to embrace their multi-faceted talents and interests and grab every opportunity that a Highfield and Brookham education provides with both hands.
Applications close on October 13, 2024.
To apply, visit highfieldandbrookham.co.uk
NEW HEAD FOR WETHERBY PREP
Nina Kingsmill Moore takes up the reins at Wetherby Prep in Marylebone. She has significant experience in a variety of schools, both state and independent including Glendower, Lambrook and The Unicorn. She has also run the Independent Association of Prep Schools’ Preparation for Headship course. Taking on the role she said: “I’m very much looking forward to getting to know the community at Wetherby Prep, the boys, staff, and parents. Wetherby parents are passionate about their sons’ school, and I love that about them!
The first thing I want to do is learn each boys’ name and something unique about
him. Every boy brings something different to the table and I need to understand what makes him tick. Alongside this, I’ll be looking at the academics and how we can enrich the curriculum to ensure we include ambitious trips and inspirational speakers. But first, I need to get properly under the skin of this extraordinary school and take in all the wonderful things about it.”
CRANLEIGH PREP LAUNCHES ACE PROGRAMME
The ACE Programme (After Common Entrance), has been put in place to ensure the final weeks at prep school for the Form 6 pupils are as purposeful and fulfilling as possible. There are a wide range of sessions to develop personal and inter-personal skills of the pupils as well as to give some important transition guidance and hopefully have some fun with their friends too.
Aims and objectives of the ACE Programme:
• Service - pupils to give back to the school community
• Cooperation - pupils to listen to others and participate fully in all activities with interest and enthusiasm
• Collaboration - pupils to work with a variety of their peers to achieve set goals
• Life Skills - pupils to develop personal and inter-personal skills in preparation for their move to senior school and beyond
• Engagement - pupils to have a fulfilling, interesting and purposeful final two weeks at prep school cranprep.org
For further information, contact admin@wetherbyprep.co.uk or call 020 7535 3520
INSPIRED EDUCATION REVEALS PLANS FOR ‘WETHERBY PEMBRIDGE’
OPENING SEPT 2025
Leading global premium schools group Inspired Education will open a new state-of-the-art West London independent co-educational senior school next year, Wetherby Pembridge, with registrations now open.
● Wetherby Pembridge will be led by Nick Page, who has more than 20 years of experience at some of the world’s top performing schools including Westminster and Harrow.
● The co-educational day school will inspire and nurture future citizens of the world, whilst preserving the sought-after, proven traditions of Wetherby and Pembridge Hall Schools, championing Inspired Education’s focus on quality and local best practice.
● The new school, in Kensington Olympia, West London, will accommodate 475 pupils, aged 11 to 18.
At Wetherby Pembridge, the best of traditional education will meet the future of learning. It will provide parents with an excellent new academic ‘day’ choice, where students will learn using the most effective and innovative methods available, with world-class technology, in a state-of-theart building in West London. The rigorous and holistic curriculum will ensure academic excellence and will include exceptional creative arts programmes and a premium sports provision.
Set to accommodate 475 students aged 11 to 18, the school will be built upon the heritage and quality offered at Inspired’s renowned Wetherby School and Pembridge Hall. It will bring an exceptional, holistic co-ed secondary education experience
to the local landscape, focussing on Inspired’s three core pillars of academic excellence, sports and performing arts.
Located in the well-connected area of Kensington Olympia in West London, the school will provide pupils with an exceptional education with state-of-theart classrooms, laboratories and STEAM learning spaces, with a stunning library (with a glass atrium over 8 floors) and amazing creative arts facilities including a theatre and access to outdoor sports facilities. Wetherby Pembridge School will follow the British Curriculum and pupils will focus on GCSE and A-Level qualifications to ensure access to the world’s best universities.
Nick Page has been appointed Headmaster of Wetherby Pembridge School. He joins from Harrow International School in New York and has more than 20 years of experience leading and teaching at some of the world’s most renowned schools. Previous roles include Deputy Headmaster at both Harrow School and Westminster School.
Through this launch, amongst others, Inspired Education continues to set the benchmark in the provision of world-class private education for 85,000 pupils across 24 countries and 5 continents. Inspired Schools champion academic excellence by means of a rigorous curriculum and subject choices, alongside gold-standard careers and university application advice. With more than 110 schools educating students across six continents, Inspired draws upon the best international learning practices to nurture well-rounded individuals all the way through their education journey.
Pupils of Wetherby Pembridge will also be able to access Inspired Education’s international community, working with leading university counsellors and taking part in worldleading international camps and global exchanges to pursue their passions and
explore new interests. Inspired firmly believes that exploring new and exciting environments allows young people to develop independence, confidence and resilience, as well as broadening their horizons. These offerings instil in young people a heightened understanding and appreciation of fellow global citizens and the world around them, equipping them for success in both their academic pursuits and future careers within an everevolving landscape.
“Wetherby Pembridge School is the latest demonstration of our commitment to providing the very best holistic education, prioritising academics first and foremost, but with unparalleled access to extra-curricular facilities and higher education pathways. In Nick Page, we have an excellent leader with years of experience shaping some of the foremost schools in the world. I know that with him at the helm of this outstanding new school, pupils will benefit from an exceptional academic journey, whatever their interests and strengths might be,” said Nadim Nsouli, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Inspired.
Registrations for Wetherby Pembridge are now open: wetherbypembridge.co.uk
Nick Page
TASIS ENGLAND WINS EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION AWARD FROM RELOCATE GLOBAL
TASIS England is delighted to announce that it has been honoured with the prestigious Excellence in Education – Schools or Education Consultancy award. This accolade recognises the outstanding quality of education provided to mobile families, reflecting the school’s commitment to successful, timely, and stressfree relocations that support talent retention, enhance employer branding, and promote employee engagement.
The award was presented by Pam Mundy, Executive Director of Pam Mundy Associates and a respected member of the panel of judges. In their commendation, the judges highlighted TASIS England’s comprehensive and inclusive approach to relocation and mobility.
“Relocation and mobility permeate all aspects of what the school continues to do. They offer support at all levels for all families
at various points of the relocation process and have built the essential flexibility that engages and supports parents in all aspects of the process. Resource materials are current, relevant, and alert to a constantly changing demographic.
TASIS England is to be congratulated for their coordinated range of onboarding support offerings for the entire school community and their agility in responding to international policy change, ensuring that support for relocation remains focused on the personal (human) experience for each family, recognising the diversity of
need and tailoring support accordingly,” the judges explained.
For more information about TASIS England and its comprehensive relocation support services, please visit tasisengland.org
ST BENEDICT’S CELEBRATES EXAM SUCCESS
specialist at-home tutoring service for children 3-7 years
bespoke lessons in maths, literacy, and phonics one-to-one assessments and termly reports parent consultations
WORD WARRIORS WORD WARRIORS
Word Warriors also supports homeschool families. From November 2024, we will be holding weekly Tuesday morning support & learning groups for parents and children aged 3-6 years in Ealing. Babies welcome! Enquire using the contact info below.
CONTACT
e : w o r d w a r r i o r s @ o u t l o o k c o m
t: +447908056398
FB: Word Warriors
W e s t , S o u t h - W e s t a n d C
St Benedict’s School in Ealing is celebrating its best-ever A Level results for 2024, with nearly half of the exams (49.8%) awarded an A* or A grade, and 83.2% achieving A*, A, or B. These outstanding results continue the school’s strong upward trend in public exam performance. Headmaster Joe Smith praised the students, “ Our 2024 leavers have worked extremely hard and deserve all their success. For half the grades to be at A*or A, and 83% at A*, A or B, is the mark of an academically very serious school indeed. Enormous credit must also go to our dedicated and brilliant team of teachers, and all the staff who support our young people, as well as the students’ parents and families for their support of them during their studies. As you can imagine, we are over the moon!”
St Benedict’s also reported strong GCSE results, with 64.8% of exams graded 9 to 7 (A*/A). Smith expressed his pride in the students’ achievements and looks forward to welcoming many of them back to Sixth Form.
Cultivating Curious Learners
Falcons School in Putney is a co-educational nursery and prep school for pupils aged 2-11, fostering critical, creative, and independent learning in a supportive environment with exceptional pastoral care.
www.falconsschool.co.uk
SUPPORTING CHILDREN WITH ADHD AND AUTISM IN THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR
by DR SELINA WARLOW - CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST AND NEURODIVERSITY SPECIALIST
The anticipation of a new school year brings excitement for many children. However, for those with ADHD or autism, this period can be particularly challenging. Transitions, new routines, new schools and social interactions may heighten anxiety, making it crucial for parents and schools to provide thoughtful support.
The following strategies and tips can help support children as they navigate the return to the school environment.
ESTABLISH A PREDICTABLE ROUTINE
Children with ADHD or autism often thrive in structured environments. Before the school year begins, start implementing a daily routine that mirrors the school day. This could include waking up at the same time, having regular mealtimes, and setting a consistent bedtime. A predictable schedule helps reduce anxiety and allows children to feel more in control.
TIP: Create a visual schedule that outlines the daily routine. I recommend using pictures or colour codes to represent different activities, making it easier for your child to understand and follow.
COLLABORATE WITH THE SCHOOL
Communication with teachers and school staff is crucial. Share information about your child’s needs, strengths, and potential triggers. Establishing a strong partnership with the school can lead to the development of tailored support plans.
TIP: Schedule a meeting with your child’s teacher before school starts. This is a good opportunity to discuss any accommodations or modifications that may be necessary, such as your child having a meeting the teachers before the school year starts, if possible, extended time on tests, sensory breaks, or seating arrangements that minimise distractions.
RESOURCES
PREPARE FOR SOCIAL INTERACTIONS
For children with autism social interactions can be overwhelming. Role-playing common social scenarios, such as greeting a classmate or asking for help from a teacher, can boost your child’s confidence. Discuss strategies for managing social challenges, like finding a quiet space if they feel overwhelmed or using a stress-relief tool. If your child struggles to ask for help you could make a communication card which they could put onto their teacher’s desk to communicate how they are feeling or if they need help.
TIP: Encourage participation in small-group activities outside of school to practice social skills in a less formal setting. This could be a hobby, class, sports team, or a playdate with a trusted friend.
NHS Guide on ADHD
The NHS provides a straightforward guide to understanding ADHD, its symptoms, and the available treatments. It’s a great starting point for parents seeking reliable, medically-sound advice. nhs.uk/conditions
ADDitude Magazine
A US based online resource offering articles, expert advice, and webinars on ADHD. It covers everything from diagnosis to daily management strategies, helping parents understand and support their children with ADHD. additudemag.com
CREATE A CALMING HOME ENVIRONMENT
After a day at school, children may feel overwhelmed and need time to decompress. Your child may benefit from a designated “quiet space” at home where your child can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. This space should be free from distractions, filled with comforting items like soft pillows, weighted blankets, or their favourite books.
TIP: Incorporate relaxation techniques into the daily routine, such as deep breathing exercises, listening to calming music, or engaging in mindfulness activities. These practices can help your child learn to selfregulate their emotions and manage stress.
ENCOURAGE POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT
Children with ADHD or autism may face frequent challenges, so celebrating their successes, no matter how small, is important. Positive reinforcement can boost self-esteem and motivate your child to keep trying, even when things are difficult.
TIP: You may wish to use a reward system to acknowledge accomplishments or simply remind them how well they are doing. If you can recognise a child’s challenges but praise their resilience to overcome some of these every day, they are more likely to feel heard and understood.
MONITOR AND ADJUST AS NEEDED
Every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Regularly assess how your child is coping with the demands of school. If you notice signs of distress, such as changes in behaviour, sleep disturbances, or increased anxiety, it may be time to adjust your approach or seek additional support.
TIP: Keep a journal of your child’s progress, noting any challenges and how they were addressed. This can be a helpful tool when communicating with teachers or specialists and for reflecting on what strategies have been effective.
PRACTICE SELF-CARE
Supporting a child with ADHD or autism can be demanding, and parents often put their own needs aside. However, maintaining your well-being is crucial to being an effective support system for your child. Take time for yourself, seek support from other parents or professionals, and remember that it’s okay to ask for help when you need it.
TIP: Join a support group for parents of children with ADHD or autism. Sharing experiences and advice with others who understand your challenges can provide emotional relief and practical tips.
As the new school year begins, remember that your child’s journey is unique, and their needs may evolve over time. By providing structure, understanding, and support, you can help them navigate the challenges ahead with confidence. With the right tools and strategies, both you and your child can look forward to a successful and fulfilling school year.
THE
DR
SELINA
WARLOW is a Clinical Psychologist and Neurodiversity Specialist at The Nook Neurodevelopmental Clinic specialising in private assessments for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) for individuals aged five and above as well as 1:1 sessions to support children and adults to understand their strengths and challenges, an educational psychologist and SENCo who can work closely with schools. The Nook Clinic also has close relationships with other local clinics e.g. speech and language and occupational therapists who can provide support in these areas. With clinics in Farnham, Surrey, and Esher, Greater London, the clinic is committed to providing evidence-based, compassionate care and support to children, young people, adults, and their families. thenookclinic.co.uk
ADHD Foundation
This UK-based charity provides valuable resources, including fact sheets, guides, and webinars, to help parents navigate life with a child who has ADHD. They also offer training programs and advocacy to support families. adhdfoundation.org.uk
ADHD UK
ADHD UK was founded in 2020 by people with ADHD for people with ADHD. It provides information, support, research, advocacy and awareness for anyone who wants to learn more. adhduk.co.uk
YoungMinds
Focused on young people’s mental health, YoungMinds offers guides for parents on ADHD, with practical advice on managing symptoms, understanding treatments, and advocating for your child’s needs at school and home. youngminds.org.uk
National Autistic Society (NAS)
While primarily focused on autism, NAS offers resources on ADHD, which often co-occurs with autism. Their advice includes managing ADHD symptoms and understanding your child’s unique needs. autism.org.uk
Understood
Every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another.
An American site, but with universally applicable advice, Understood provides detailed articles, expert Q&A, and practical tips for parents. It’s especially useful for strategies on helping children with ADHD thrive in school and at home. understood.org
Child Mind Institute
This US-based organisation offers excellent resources on ADHD that are relevant worldwide. Their website includes articles, videos, and guides that help parents understand and support their child’s ADHD. childmind.org
SCHOOL DIRECTORY
If you are considering the private route, our schools directory provides some basic information and contact details to help you on your way to choosing a school. Check websites for open days and registration deadlines as some schools will operate a first come first served system, while others might assess.
PRE-PREP/PREP/PRIMARY DAY SCHOOLS
Choosing a first school can be overwhelming. Old hands will tell you that league tables and statistics (and tittle tattle) are only part of the story – an open day, tour or show around will give you the feel for a place and the opportunity to ask questions.
SECONDARY DAY SCHOOLS
London has some of the best secondary schools in the country and as a result it can feel a bit frenzied as families head towards 11+ exams. But, if you ignore the tittle tattle, stay honest about your child’s ability and character, and do your research, you will find a school where your child will flourish and be happy.
PREP BOARDING
You may be considering a move out or prefer your child has a countryside education. Our prep boarding list has distance in mind, with journey times from London under an hour.
SECONDARY BOARDING
As your children become more independent, distance is not quite so key, so our directory reflects this, taking in further flung counties such as Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire and Dorset. And some quintessential English boarding schools.
SEN SCHOOLS
Amongst the most sought after schools in the capital, places are hard to come by and come at a cost. Research is key as parents of neuro-diverse and children with special educational needs will know, one size does not fit all.
You’ll find all the schools within our directory on The Good Schools Guide website: those which are reviewed are marked with a .
PRIMARY/PRE-PREP/PREP
NORTH/NORTH-WEST
ABERCORN SCHOOL
28 Abercorn Place, NW8 9XP T 020 7286 4785
E admissions@abercornschool.com W abercornschool.com
Co-ed 2 to 13
Next schools: Aldenham, City of London, Francis Holland, Highgate, Latymer Upper, Mill Hill, North London Collegiate, Queen’s College, UCS, Westminster, Eton
DEVONSHIRE HOUSE PRE-PREP & PREP SCHOOL
2 Arkwright Road, NW3 6AE T 020 7435 1916
E admissions@ devonshirehouseprepschool.co.uk W devonshirehouseschool.co.uk
Co-ed 2½ to 13
Next schools: Highgate, St Paul’s, UCS, Westminster, Mill Hill, City of London, Eton, Merchant Taylor’s, Haberdashers, Charterhouse, Harrow
MAPLE WALK SCHOOL
62a Crownhill Road, NW10 4EB T 020 8963 3890
E admissions@maplewalkschool.co.uk W maplewalkschool.co.uk
Co-ed 4 to 11
Next schools: Aldenham, City of London, Emanuel, Queen’s College, Latymer Upper, John Lyon, North Bridge House, Belmont Mill Hill Prep School, Wetherby Prep, Francis Holland
NORTH BRIDGE HOUSE SCHOOL
1 Gloucester Avenue, NW1 7AB T 020 7267 6266
E prep.reception@northbridgehouse. com
W northbridgehouse.com
Co-ed nursery 2 to 5, Pre-prep 5 to 7, Prep 7 to 13
Next schools: Senior School, City of London, Channing, Eton, Francis Holland, Merchant Taylor’s, Channing, South Hampstead
ORLEY FARM SCHOOL
South Hill Avenue, Harrow, HA1 3NU T 020 8869 7600
E office@orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk
W orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk
Co-ed 4 to 13
Next schools: Merchant Taylors’, Mill Hill, Northwood College, Parmiter’s, Rugby, St Paul’s Girls, John Lyon, Royal Masonic, Westminster, Aldenham, Haberdashers’ Aske’s (boys and girls), Haileybury, Harrow
ST ANTHONY’S SCHOOL FOR BOYS
90 Fitzjohn’s Avenue, NW3 6N
T 020 7431 106
E pahead@stanthonysprep.co.uk
W stanthonysprep.org.uk
Next schools: Eton, City of London, Wetherby Senior, UCS, Sherborne, Tonbridge
IVY HOUSE SCHOOL
Ivy House, North End Road, NW11 7SX T 020 3869 3070
E admissions@ivyhouseschool.co.uk
W ivyhouseschool.co.uk
Next schools: Channing, Highgate, Queenswood, Queens College, South Hampstead High
ST JOHN’S WOOD PRE-PREP
Lord’s Roundabout, NW8 7NE T 020 7722 7149
E info@sjwpre-prep.org.uk
W sjwpre-prep.org.uk
Co-ed 3 to 7
Next schools: St Paul’s Juniors, Highgate, North Bridge House, South Hampstead High, UCS, Westminster Under, Latymer Prep, Merchant Taylor’s
THE GOWER SCHOOL
10 Cynthia Street, N1 9JF
T 020 7700 2445
E info@thegowerschool.co.uk
W thegowerschool.co.uk
Co-ed 3 months to 11.
Next schools: Westminster, City of London, Highgate, Channing, Dame
Alice Owen’s, Forest, Francis Holland, Henrietta Barnett, North London
Collegiate, Hampstead High
SOUTH + SOUTH WEST
BRIGHTON COLLEGE PREP
KENSINGTON
23-25 Princes Gate, SW7 1PT
T 0207 591 4628
W brightoncollegeprepkensington.co.uk
2 to 13
Next schools: Heathfield, St James, More House, St George’s, Brighton College
BROOMFIELD HOUSE SCHOOL
Broomfield Road, TW9 3HS
T 020 8940 3884
E office@broomfieldhouse.com
W broomfieldhouse.com
Co-ed 3 to 11
Next schools: St Paul’s Juniors, Godolphin & Latymer, Hampton, Ibstock, Kings College Wimbledon, LEH, Latymer Upper, Putney High, Surbiton, Tiffin Boys & Girls
BROOMWOOD HALL SCHOOL
68-74 Nightingale Lane, SW12 8NR
T 020 8682 8830
E admissions@northwoodschools.com
W northwoodschools.com
Girls 4 to 13 and boys from 4 to 8
Next schools: Francis Holland, JAGS, LEH, St Paul’s, More House, Streatham & Clapham High, Emanuel, Alleyn’s, Harrodian, Wellington
CAMERON VALE SCHOOL
The Vale, SW3 6AH T 020 7352 4040
E info@cameronvaleschool.com
W cameronvaleschool.com
Co-ed aged 2 to 11
Next Schools Queen’s Gate, Wetherby Senior, Queen’s College, More House, Holland Park School
Next schools: Godolphin & Latymer, St Paul’s Girls, City of London, Latymer Upper, Notting Hill & Ealing, Queen’s Gate, Putney High School, Benenden, St Mary’s Ascot, Wycombe Abbey
FALKNER HOUSE (BOYS)
20 Penywern Rd, London SW5 9SU
T 020 7373 2340
E office20pr@falknerhouse.co.uk
W falknerhouse.co.uk
Boys 4 to 11
Next schools: Kings College, Wimbledon, St Paul’s, City of London
FRANCIS HOLLAND JUNIOR SCHOOL (SLOANE SQUARE)
Graham Terrace, SW1W 8JF
T 020 7730 2971
E registrar@fhs-sw1.org.uk
W fhs-sw1.org.uk
Girls 4 to 11
Next schools: Francis Holland Senior, Alleyn’s, JAGS, St Paul’s Girls, City of London Girls, Wycombe Abbey, Downe House
GARDEN HOUSE SCHOOL
Turks Row, SW3 4TW
T 020 7730 1652
E info@gardenhouseschool.co.uk
W gardenhouseschool.co.uk
Boys and girls 3 to 11
Next schools: Sussex House, Wetherby Prep, St Paul’s’, Winchester House,
Summer Fields, Ludgrove. Francis Holland (north and south), Godolphin & Latymer, Latymer Upper, St Mary’s Ascot, Heathfield
GLENDOWER PREPARATORY SCHOOL
86/87 Queen’s Gate, SW7 5JX T 020 7370 1927
E office@glendowerprep.org
W glendowerprep.org
Girls 4 to 11
Next schools: Francis Holland Sloane Square, Godolphin & Latymer, Wycombe Abbey, Kensington Park School, Latymer Upper, Putney High School, St Paul’s Girls’
ICS LONDON EARLY YEARS/PRIMARY
7B Wyndham Place
London W1H 1PN
T 020 7298 8800
W icschool.co.uk
KEW COLLEGE PREP
24-26 Cumberland Road, TW9 3HQ
T 020 8940 2039
E enquiries@kewcollege.com
W kewcollege.com
Co-ed from 3 to 11
Next schools: Hampton School, Ibstock Place School, Kingston Grammar School, Radnor House, St Benedict’s School, St Catherine’s School, Surbiton High School, Harrodian, Wimbledon High School
KEW GREEN PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Layton House, Ferry Lane, TW9 3AF
T 020 8948 5999
E secretary@kgps.co.uk
W kgps.co.uk
Co-ed 4 to 11
Next schools: Kew House, Notting Hill & Ealing, Westminster, Latymer Upper, KCS Wimbledon, St John’s Leatherhead, Ibstock Place
KINGS HOUSE SCHOOL
68 King’s Road, TW10 6ES T 020 8940 1878
E schooloffice@kingshouseschool.org
W kingshouseschool.org
Co-ed from 2024
Next schools: Hampton, St Paul’s, King’s College Wimbledon, Reed’s,
Westminster Under, Sussex House, St Paul’s Juniors, King’s College Junior School, Latymer Prep, Summer Fields, Caldicott, The Dragon
WETHERBY PREPARATORY SCHOOL
48 Bryanston Square, W1H 2EA
T 020 7535 3520
E admin@wetherbyprep.co.uk
W wetherbyprep.co.uk
Boys 7 to 13
Next schools: Westminster, St Paul’s, Eton, Harrow, Charterhouse
FURTHER OUT
BEECHWOOD PARK SCHOOL
Pickford Road, Markyate, AL3 8AW
T 01582 840333
E admissions@beechwoodpark.com
W beechwoodpark.com
Co-ed 3 to 13 with boarding
Next schools: Berkhamsted, Haberdashers’, Merchant Taylors’, Mill Hill, Queenswood, Rugby
CITY OF LONDON FREEMEN’S JUNIOR SCHOOL
Ashtead Park, Ashtead, Surrey, KT21 1ET T 01372 277933
E admissions@freemens.org
W freemens.org
Co-ed 7 to 13
ELSTREE SCHOOL
Woolhampton, Reading RG7 5TD
T 01189 713302
E registrar@elstreeschool.org.uk
W elstreeschool.org.uk
Co-ed 3 to 13
Next schools: Bradfield, Eton, Radley, Sherborne, Winchester
FELTONFLEET SCHOOL
Byfleet Road, Cobham, Surrey, KT11 1DR
T 01932 862264
E admissions@feltonfleet.co.uk
W feltonfleet.co.uk
Co-ed 3 to 13
GAYHURST SCHOOL
Bull Lane, Gerrards Cross, SL9 8RJ T 01753 882690
E mupton@gayhurstschool.co.uk
W gayhurstschool.co.uk
Boys 3 to 11
Next schools: Dr Challoner’s Grammar, Dr Challoner’s High, John Hampden, RGS High Wycombe, Beaconsfield High, Berkhamsted, Royal Masonic, Wycombe Abbey, Haileybury, Pipers Corner, LVS Ascot, Merchant Taylors’, Claires Court, Shiplake
THE MALL SCHOOL
185 Hampton Road, TW2 5NQ T 020 8977 2523
E admissions@themallschool.org.uk
W themallschool.org.uk
Boys 4 to 11
Next schools: Hampton, King’s College Wimbledon, St Paul’s Juniors, Kingston Grammar, Tiffin, Reed’s, Epsom College
NEWLAND HOUSE SCHOOL
32-34 Waldegrave Park, TW1 4TQ
T 020 8865 1305
E admissions@newlandhouse.net
W newlandhouse.net
Co-ed 3 to 13
Next schools: 11+ Halliford, St George’s College, Kingston Grammar, Hampton 13+, Wellington, St James, Reeds, Bedales
Next schools: Epsom College, St Paul’s, Eton College, Reed’s School, Charterhouse, Cranleigh, St John’s, Whitgift
ROWAN PREPARATORY SCHOOL
6 Fitzalan Road, Claygate, Surrey KT10 0LX
T 01372 462627
E admissions@rowanprepschool.co.uk
W rowanprepschool.co.uk
Girls 2 to 11
SHREWSBURY HOUSE
107 Ditton Road, Surbiton, KT6 6RL
T 020 8399 3066
E shsoffice@shstrust.net
W shrewsburyhouse.net
Boys 7 to 13
Next schools: King’s College
Wimbledon, St Paul’s, St John’s, Westminster, Hampton, Epsom College, Wellington, Charterhouse, Tonbridge
ST JOHN’S SCHOOL (LEATHERHEAD)
Epsom Road, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 8SP
T 01372 373000
E admissions@stjohns.surrey.sch.uk
W stjohnsleatherhead.co.uk
Co-ed 11 to 18 day and boarding
STUDY SCHOOL & NURSERY
57 Thetford Road, KT3 5DP
T 020 8942 0754
E info@thestudyschool.co.uk
W thestudyschool.co.uk
Co-ed 2 to 11
Next schools: Surbiton High, LEH, Guildford High, Tiffin
St Benedict’s School
SECONDARY
ACS COBHAM INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
Portsmouth Road, Cobham, Surrey
KT11 1BL
T 01932 867251
E cobhamadmissions@acs-schools.com
W acs-schools.com/cobham
Co-ed 2 to 18 day and boarding
ACS HILLINGDON
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
Hillingdon Court, 108 Vine Lane
Hillingdon, UB10 0BE
T 01895 259771
F 01895 818404
E hillingdonadmissions@acs-schools.com
W acs-schools.com/hillingdon
Co-ed 4 to 19
ALLEYN’S SCHOOL
Townley Road, SE22 8SU
T 020 8557 1500
E registrar@alleyns.org.uk
W www.alleyns.org.uk
Co-ed 11 to 18 with linked junior school
ARTSED
Cone Ripman House, 14 Bath Road,
W4 1LY
T 020 8987 6600
E pupils@artsed.co.uk
W artsed.co.uk
Co-ed 11 to 18
CITY OF LONDON SCHOOL
Queen Victoria Street, EC4V 3AL
T 020 3680 6300
E admissions@cityoflondonschool.org.uk
W cityoflondonschool.org.uk
Boys 10 to 18 with a linked junior school
CITY OF LONDON SCHOOL FOR GIRLS
St Giles Terrace, Barbican, EC2Y 8BB
T 020 7847 5500
E admissions@clsg.org.uk
W clsg.org.uk
Girls 11 to 18 with linked junior school
COLLÈGE FRANÇAIS BILINGUE DE LONDRES
87 Holmes Road, NW5 3AX
T 020 7993 7400
E info@cfbl.org.uk
W cfbl.org.uk
Co-ed 3 to 15, bilingual
DLD COLLEGE LONDON
199 Westminster Bridge Road, SE1 7FX
T 020 7935 8411
E dld-admissions@dld.org
W dldcollege.co.uk
Co-ed day and boarding 13-19
DULWICH COLLEGE
Dulwich Common, SE12 7LD
T 020 8693 3601
E info@dulwich.org.uk
W dulwich.org.uk
Boys 11 to 18 with boarding
EATON SQUARE SENIOR SCHOOL
106 Piccadilly, W1J 7NL
T 020 7491 7393
E admissions.senior@eatonsquareschools.com
W eatonsquareschools.com
Co-ed 11 to 18
EMANUEL SCHOOL
Battersea Rise, SW11 1HS
T 020 8870 4171
E enquiries@emanuel.org.uk
W emanuel.org.uk
Co-ed 10 to 18
FRANCIS HOLLAND (RP)
Clarence Gate, Ivor Place, NW1 6XR
T 020 7723 0176
E admin@fhs-nw1.org.uk
W fhs-nw1.org.uk
Girls 11 to 18
FRANCIS HOLLAND (SS)
Graham Terrace, SW1W 8JF
T 020 7730 2971
E registrar@fhs-sw1.org.uk
W fhs-sw1.org.uk
Girls 11 to 18
FULHAM SENIOR SCHOOL
200 Greyhound Road, W14 9SD
T 020 7386 2444
E admin@fulham.school
W fulham.school
Co-ed 4 to 18
THE GODOLPHIN AND LATYMER SCHOOL
Iffley Road, W6 0PG
T 020 8741 1936
E registrar@godolphinandlatymer.com
W godolphinandlatymer.com
Girls 11 to 18
HAMPTON SCHOOL
Hanworth Road, TW12 3HD
T 020 8979 5526
E admissions@hamptonschool.org.uk
W hamptonschool.org.uk
Boys 11 to 18, linked junior school
THE HARRODIAN SCHOOL
Lonsdale Road, SW13 9QN
T 020 8748 6117
E admin@harrodian.com
W harrodian.com
Co-ed 4 to 18
HIGHGATE SCHOOL
North Road, N6 4AY
T 020 8347 3564
E admissions@highgateschool.org.uk
W highgateschool.org.uk
Co-ed 11 to 18
IBSTOCK PLACE SCHOOL
Clarence Lane, SW15 5PY
T 020 8876 9991
E registrar@ibstockplaceschool.co.uk
W ibstockplaceschool.co.uk
Co-ed 3 to 18, linked junior school
ICS LONDON SECONDARY/DIPLOMA
21 Star Street, W2 1QB
T 020 7298 8800
W icschool.co.uk
JAMES ALLEN’S GIRL’S SCHOOL (JAGS)
East Dulwich Grove, SE22 8TE
T 020 8693 1181
E admissions@jags.org.uk
W jags.org.uk
Girls 11 to 18
KING’S COLLEGE SCHOOL
Southside, SW19 4TT
T 020 8255 5300
E admissions@kcs.org.uk
W kcs.org.uk
Boys 11 to 18, girls 16 to 18, linked junior school
LADY ELEANOR HOLLES (LEH)
Hanworth Road, TW12 3HF
T 020 8979 1601
E registrar@lehs.org.uk
W lehs.org.uk
Girls 11 to 18, linked junior school
LATYMER UPPER SCHOOL
237 King Street, W6 9LR
T 020 8629 2024
E head@latymer-upper.org
W www.latymer-upper.org
Co-ed 11 to 18, linked junior school
LEIGHTON PARK SCHOOL
Shinfield Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG2 7DE
T 0118 987 9600
E admissions@leightonpark.com
W leightonpark.com
Co-ed 11 to 18 day and boarding
LYCÉE INTERNATIONAL DE LONDRES
– WINSTON CHURCHILL
54 Forty Lane, HA9 9LY
T 020 3824 4900
E admissions@lyceeinternational. london
W lyceeinternational.london
Co-ed 3 to 18, bilingual
MORE HOUSE SCHOOL
22-24 Pont Street, SW1X 0AA
T 020 7235 2855
E registrar@morehousemail.org.uk
W morehouse.org.uk
Girls 11 to 18
NORTH BRIDGE HOUSE CANONBURY
6-9 Canonbury Place, N1 2NQ
T 020 7267 6266
E canonbury@northbridgehouse.com
W northbridgehouse.com
Co-ed 11 to 18, linked junior school
NORTH LONDON COLLEGIATE Canons Drive, Edgeware, HA8 7RJ
T 020 8952 0912
E office@nlcs.org.uk
W nlcs.org.uk
Girls 11 to 18, linked junior school
NOTTING HILL & EALING HIGH SCHOOL
2 Cleveland Road, W13 8AX
T 020 8799 8400
E enquiries@nhehs.gdst.net
W nhehs.gdst.net
Girls 11 to 18, linked junior school
PUTNEY HIGH SCHOOL
35 Putney Hill, SW15 6BH
T 020 8788 4886
E putneyhigh@put.gdst.net
W putneyhigh.gdst.net
Girls 11 to 18, linked junior school
SECONDARY
QUEEN’S COLLEGE LONDON
43-49 Harley Street, W1G 8BT
T 020 7291 7000
F 020 7291 7090
E admissions@qcl.org.uk
W qcl.org.uk
Girls 11 to 18.
QUEEN’S GATE SCHOOL
131-133 Queen’s Gate, SW7 5LE
T 020 7589 3587
E registrar@queensgate.org.uk
W queensgate.org.uk
Girls 11 to 18
RADNOR HOUSE SCHOOL
Pope’s Villa, Cross Deep, TW1 4QG
T 020 8891 6264
E admissions@radnorhouse.org
W radnor-twickenham.org
Co-ed 9 to 18
ST AUGUSTINE’S PRIORY
Hillcrest Road, W5 2JL
T 020 8997 2022
E admissions@sapriory.com
W sapriory.com
Girls 3 to 18
ST BENEDICT’S SCHOOL
54 Eaton Rise, W5 2ES
T 020 8862 2254
E enquiries@stbenedicts.org.uk
W stbenedicts.org.uk
Co-ed 3-18
ST JAMES SENIOR GIRLS’ SCHOOL
Earsby Street, W14 8SH
T 020 7348 1777
E admissions@sjsg.org.uk
W stjamesschools.co.uk/seniorgirls
Girls 11 to 18
ST JAMES SENIOR BOYS’ SCHOOL
Church Road, Ashford, TW15 3DZ
T 01784 266930
E admissions@stjamesboys.co.uk
W stjamesschools.co.uk/seniorboys
Boys 11 to 18
ST PAUL’S GIRLS’ SCHOOL
Brook Green, W6 7BS
T 020 7603 2288
E admissions@spgs.org
W spgs.org
Girls 11 to 18
ST PAUL’S SCHOOL
Lonsdale Road, SW13 9JT
T 020 8748 9162
E admissions@stpaulsschool.org.uk
W stpaulsschool.org.uk
Boys 13 to 18, linked prep school
TASIS - THE AMERICAN SCHOOL IN ENGLAND
Coldharbour Lane, TW20 8TE
T 01932 565252
E ukadmissions@tasisengland.org
W tasisengland.org
Co-ed 3 to 18, with boarding
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE SCHOOL
Frognal, NW3 6XH
T 020 7435 2215
E ssadmissions@ucs.org.uk
W ucs.org.uk
Boys 11 to 18, girls 16 to 18, linked junior school
WESTMINSTER SCHOOL
20 Dean’s Yard, SW1P 3PB
T 020 7963 1003
E registrar@westminster.org.uk
W westminster.org.uk
Boys 12 to 18, girls 16 to 18, with boarding, linked prep
WETHERBY SENIOR SCHOOL
100 Marylebone Lane, W1U 2QU
T 020 7535 3530
E registrar@wetherbysenior.co.uk
W wetherbysenior.co.uk
Boys 11 to 18
WHITGIFT SCHOOL
Haling Park, CR2 6YT
T 020 8688 9222
E admissions@whitgift.co.uk
W whitgift.co.uk
Boys 10 to 18, with boarding, girls 11 to 18
Engaging with your classmates is as important as exploring the subject being taught.
In TASIS England's diverse and welcoming community, we celebrate the unique contributions of each person. As students share different cultures and perspectives, horizons are broadened, memories are made, and strong, life-long relationships are cultivated. Find your friends, prepare for your future. Discover your path at TASIS England. C O N N E C T
BOARDING PREPS
ALDRO SCHOOL
Shackleford, Godalming, GU8 6AS
T 01483 810266
E hmsec@aldro.org
W aldro.org
Boys 7 to 13
Next schools: Charterhouse, Cranleigh, Sherborne, Tonbridge, Wellington, Harrow
BEECHWOOD PARK SCHOOL
Pickford Road, Markyate, AL3 8AW
T 01582 840333
E admissions@beechwoodpark.com
W beechwoodpark.com
Co-ed 3 to 13
Next schools: St Albans, Bedford, Berkhamsted, Merchant Taylors’, Oundle, Uppingham
BRAMBLETYE SCHOOL
Lewes Road, East Grinstead, RH19 3PD
T 01342 321004
E registrar@brambletye.com
W brambletye.co.uk
Co-ed 2 to 13
Next schools: King’s Canterbury, Benenden, Ardingly, Canford, Roedean, Brighton
CALDICOTT SCHOOL
Farnham Royal, SL2 3SL
T 01753 649300
E registrar@caldicott.com
W caldicott.com
Boys 7 to 13
Next schools: Harrow, St Edwards, Charterhouse, Stowe, Wellington, Winchester
CHEAM SCHOOL
Newbury, RG19 8LD T 01635 268242
E office@cheamschool.co.uk
W cheamschool.com
Co-ed 3 to 13
Next schools: Wellington, Marlborough, Bradfield, Eton, Radley, Downe House, Sherborne
Learning difficulties/disabilities, autism, behavioural challenges, physical disabilities and sensory impairment
PARAYHOUSE SCHOOL
Colet Gardens, W14 9DH
T 020 8741 1400
E admin@parayhouse.com
W parayhouse.com
Co-ed 7 to 16
Speech, language and communication needs, and moderate learning difficulties
SPA SCHOOL, BERMONDSEY
Monnow Road, SE1 5RN
T 020 7237 3714
E office@spa-education.org
W spa-education.org/
A co-ed state special school for pupils aged 11 to 19
ASD - Autistic Spectrum Disorder
SWISS COTTAGE SCHOOL
80 Avenue Road, NW8 6HX
T 020 7681 8080
E admin@swisscottage.camden.sch.uk
W swisscottage.camden.sch.uk
A special co-ed state school for pupils aged from 2 to 19
Complex learning, communication and physical difficulties.
THE DOMINIE
55 Warriner Gardens, SW11 4DX
T 020 7720 8783
E info@thedominie.co.uk
W thedominie.co.uk
Co-ed 6 to 12
Dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, speech, language and communication and associated learning difficulties
THE HOLMEWOOD SCHOOL
LONDON
88 Woodside Park Road, N12 8SH
T 020 8920 0660
E enquiries@thsl.org.uk
W thsl.org.uk
Co-ed 7 to 19
High functioning autism, ADHD, and speech language and communication needs
THE MOAT SCHOOL
Bishops Avenue, SW6 6EG
T 020 7610 9018
E office@moatschool.org.uk
W moatschool.org.uk
Co-ed 9 to 16
Dyslexia, dyspraxia, and speech and language difficulties
THE PRIORY LODGE SCHOOL
Priory Lane, Roehampton, SW15 5JJ
T 020 8392 4410
E thepriorylodgeschool@priorygroup.com
W aspriscs.co.uk
Co-ed 9 to 19
Mild to moderate autism spectrum condition and associated social, behavioural, and emotional difficulties. The school does not enrol young people with a high level of physically challenging behaviour.
THE ST MARYLEBONE CHURCH OF ENGLAND BRIDGE SCHOOL
17–23 Third Avenue, W10 4RS
T 020 3693 4752
E office@stmarylebonebridgeschool.com
W stmarylebonebridgeschool.com
A co-ed state special school for boys and girls aged 11 to 16
SLCN - Speech, Language and Communication; SpLD - Specific Learning Difficulty
TREEHOUSE SCHOOL
Woodside Avenue, N10 3JA
T 020 8815 5424
E admissions@treehouseschool.org.uk
W treehouseschool.org.uk
Co-ed 3 to 19
Autism
OPEN DAYS
ACS SCHOOLS
W acs-schools.com
COBHAM
W acs-schools.com/cobham Sat 28 Sept
EGHAM
W acs-schools.com/egham Sat 5 Oct - 0930
HILLINGDON
W acs-schools.com/hillingdon Thur 26 Sept - 0930
ARTSED
W artsed.onlineopendays.com
Day School Thur 12 Sept - 1800 Sixth Form (Yr 12) Wed 11 Sept
BEDALES PRE-PREP, DUNANNIE
W bedales.org.uk/dunannie
Experience Day Fri 11 Oct - 0930
BEDALES PREP SCHOOL, DUNHURST
W bedales.org.uk
Fri 4 Oct, Sat 5 Oct - 1015
BEDALES SENIOR SCHOOL
W bedales.org.uk
Sixth Form 14 Sept - 1030
Senior 28 Sept, 30 Nov - 1030
BEDE’S
W bedes.org
Prep School and Nursery (Nursery to Year 8) Sat 21 Sept
Senior School (Year 9 to Sixth Form) Sat 28 Sept Sixth Form Sat 12 Oct
BEECHWOOD PARK
W beechwoodpark.com
Whole School Fri 11 Oct - 0900
7 Feb - 0900 + 16 May 2025 - 0900
BLACKHEATH HIGH SCHOOL
W blackheathhighschool.gdst.net
Junior School Sat 28 Sept - 0900
Senior School Sat 28 Sept - 0915
BRAMBLETYE
W brambletye.co.uk
E registrar@brambletye.com Fri 18 Oct
BRIGHTON COLLEGE
W brightoncollege.org.uk
Please get in touch with the admissions department for dates and a private tour registrar@brightoncollege.net
BRIGHTON COLLEGE PREP
W brightoncollege.org.uk/prep-school/
Please get in touch with the admissions department for dates and a private tour registrar@brightoncollege.net
BRIGHTON COLLEGE PREP
KENSINGTON
W brightoncollegeprepkensington.co.uk
Please contact the Admissions Team on: admissions@ brightoncollegeprepkensington.co.uk or call 020 7591 2628.
CALDICOTT PREPARATORY SCHOOL
W caldicott.com
Sat 12 Oct
Also by Mid-Week Appointment
Mon to Thur at 1000
Online appointments with Headmaster Jeremy Banks booked via admissions@caldicott.com
CHEPSTOW HOUSE
W chepstowhouseschool.co.uk
Make an enquiry via the website. Parents are invited to tour the main school around two years prior to reception entry. Nursery tours are also offered, but these are dependent on places and at the discretion of the Head of Nursery
CLAREMONT FAN COURT SCHOOL
W claremontschool.co.uk
Stable Court (Y3 to 6) Wed 18 Sept
Senior School Sat 14 Sept - 0900
Senior School Working Open
Morning Fri 27 Sept - 0900
Senior School Open Evening
Wed 2 Oct - 1700
Book a tour:
admissions@claremontschool.co.uk
CLIFTON LODGE SCHOOL
W cliftonlodgeschool.co.uk
Book an open day via the link above
COLLÈGE FRANÇAIS BILINGUE
LONDRES
W cfbl.org.uk
Sat 21 Sept, Wed 2 Oct
Enquiries to: admissions@cfbl.org.uk or via the link above
Early Years (Nursery & Reception) tours Thursdays 0900. Tours of Alleyn Park, home for Years 1 to 8, and new senior school opening in Sept 2025 on Tuesdays at 0915
DURSTON HOUSE
W durstonhouse.org
Sat 12 Oct - 0900, Thur 14 Nov - 1000
EATON SQUARE PREP SCHOOL
W eatonsquareschools.com
Sat 28 Sept
LONDON PARK SCHOOL MAYFAIR (FORMALLY EATON SQUARE SENIOR SCHOOL)
W eatonsquareschools.com
Thur 10 Sept - 0915 + 1045
Sixth Form Thur 3 Oct - 1730
Informal coffee mornings with the Head Tue 17 Sept, Thur 3 Oct, Tue 5 Nov, Thur 21 Nov, Tues 3 Dec - 0915
EDGEBOROUGH SCHOOL
W edgeborough.co.uk
Whole School Fri 27 Sept - 0930
Reception Taster Morning Fri 11 Oct
Year 3 Taster Day on Fri 4 Nov - 0900
For a tour contact: admissions@ edgeborough.co.uk or call 01252 792495
ELSTREE SCHOOL, READING
W elstreeschool.org.uk
Sat 12 Oct
FALCONS SCHOOL
W falconsschool.co.uk
Prep Fri 13 Sept - 0930
Nursery Fri 11 Oct - 0930
FRENSHAM HEIGHTS
W frensham.org
Whole School Sat 21 Sept
Whole School mini open morning Fri 11 Oct, Thur 28 Nov
Sixth Form Wed 16 Oct
Boarding Open House Tue 19 Nov
Junior School Tuesday 1 Oct
Y7 Admissions Adventure Thur 3 Oct
For 4+ entry in September 2025 (Y1-3)
Tues 24 Sept
Junior School Performing Arts
Discovery Adventure (Y5) Mon 30 Sept
Y2 Mon 14 Oct
Junior School Scratch Coding
Discovery Adventure – Tue 15 Oct
Volleyball Discovery Session (Y10&11)
Tues 15 Sept
Nursery & Preschool Music Discovery
Adventure Tue 12 Nov
Nursery & Preschool Art Discovery
Adventure Fri 6 Dec
Ceramics Discover Session (Y7&8) Mon 30 Sept
Nursery & Preschool Art Discovery
Adventure Fri 4 Oct
FULHAM SCHOOL
W fulham.school
Sat 12 Oct - 0930
GODOLPHIN & LATYMER
W godolphinandlatymer.com
Wed 18 Sept - 1630 + 1715 + 1800
Tues 24 Sept - 1630 + 1715
HALL SCHOOL WIMBLEDON
W hsw.co.uk
HEATHFIELD SCHOOL ASCOT
W heathfieldschool.net
Whole School Sat 5 Oct - 0945
SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING
Wed 25 Sept - 1800
HIGHFIELD & BROOKHAM
W highfieldschool.org.uk
Sat 28 Sept - 1030
HIGHFIELD PREP
W highfieldprep.org
Fri 27 Sept, 11 Oct - 0930
15 Nov
To book a private virtual tour contact Registrar: 01628 20624918
IBSTOCK PLACE SCHOOL
W ibstockplaceschool.co.uk
Sixth Form Thur 12 Sept
Whole school Sat 21 Sept
Senior School Wed 16 Oct
Pre-prep and Prep School Tue 8 Oct
IVY HOUSE SCHOOL
W ivyhouseschool.co.uk
Fri 20 Sept, Fri 4 Oct, Fri 15 Nov - 0930
Personalised tours daily 0930 or 1030
All prospective parents are warmly invited to attend our Wednesday morning singing assemblies and experience first-hand what Ivy House School has to offer.
KEW COLLEGE
W kewcollege.com
Fri 27 Sept, Fri 14 Feb 2025
LATYMER PREP SCHOOL
W latymerprep.org
Autumn term
LATYMER UPPER SCHOOL
W latymer-upper.org
11+ Sat 14 Sept, Sat 5 Oct
16+ Wed 11 Sept - 1730
LEH SCHOOL
W lehs.org.uk
Junior School Wed 11 Sept - 0930, Wed 25 Sept - 0930, Sat 12 Oct - 1000
Senior School Tue 24 Sept, Fri 4 Oct, Thur 10 Oct - 1030
Sixth Form Thur 19 Sept - 0915
Sixth Form Academic Open
Evening Thur 26 Sept - 1800
Full details of events and how to register for future open events can be found under the Admissions section of the website.
LEIGHTON PARK
W leightonpark.com
Sat 21 Sept, Fri 11 Oct, Fri 8 Nov - 0900
Sixth Form Sat 21 Sept - 1330
Taster Days (Year 6 in Sept) Tue 1 Oct, Tues 15 Oct - 0830 to 1530
Taster Days (Year 7/ 8) in Sept ,
Thur 17 Oct - 0830 to 1530
Informal session with Head Matthew Judd, Fridays 0900 to 1000, limited to 8 families
LYCEÉ INTERNATIONAL DE LONDRES
WINSTON CHURCHILL
W lyceeinternational.london
Sat 5 Oct - 0945
Fri 6 Dec - 0945 for English-speaking students to study IGCSEs or the IB programme
EYFS Taster Day Wed 16 Oct, Wed 4 Dec - 0900
MOULSFORD
W moulsford.com
Fri 20, Sat 21 Sept
NB: Becoming co-ed in September 2026
NEWTON PREP
W newtonprepschool.co.uk
Small group tours most Tuesdays and Fridays
NORTH BRIDGE HOUSE
W northbridgehouse.com
Nursery & Pre-Prep Hampstead (2-7yrs)
Sat 28 Sept - 0930
Pre-Prep Coffee Morning
Wed 9 Oct - 0915
Nursery Coffee Morning
Tues 12 Nov - 0930
Prep School Regent’s Park (4-13yrs)
Sat 5 Oct, Fri 8 Nov - 0930
Senior Hampstead (11-16yrs)
Sat 14 Sept, Thur 3 Oct, Thur 10 Oct - 0930
Senior Canonbury (11-18yrs)
Sat 28 Sept, 17 Oct - 0930
Sixth Form Evening Thur 10 Oct - 1730
NOTTING HILL & EALING HIGH SCHOOL
W nhehs.gdst.net
For 4+ entry in September 2025
Mon 23 Sept - 1015
All entry points Tue 1 Oct - 1315
For 7+ entry in September 2025 and Occasional Vacancies in other year groups for 2024 entry)
To book a personal tour: pahead@stanthonysprep.co.uk
ST AUGUSTINE’S PRIORY
W sapriory.com
Pre-Prep & Prep School in Action
Tue 24 Sept - 1000
Senior Sat 28 Sept - 1000
Sat 26 April 2025 - 1000
Priory Sixth Tue 15 Oct
ST BENEDICT’S
W stbenedicts.org.uk
Nursery and Junior School Thur 19 Sept
Sixth Form Thur 26 Sep
Whole School Sat 5 Oct
Senior School Tue 15 Oct
Early Years Stay & Play
Fri 27 Sept, Fri 11 Oct
ST GEORGE’S ASCOT
W stgeorges-ascot.org.uk
Fri 13 Sept, Tue 1 Oct, Tue 8 Oct
Sixth Form Thur 19 Sept (evening)
Email Admissions to reserve a place on the next available Open Morning or to arrange a meeting with the Head, Liz Hewer
ST JAMES PREPARATORY SCHOOL
W stjamesschools.co.uk
Nursery and Prep School
Wed 6 Nov - 0900
Reception 2025 Taster Mornings
Thur 10 Oct, Thur 7 Nov - 0830
ST PAUL’S SCHOOL
W stpaulsschool.org.uk
ST PAUL’S GIRLS’ SCHOOL
W spgs.org
16+ Wed 11 Sept
SHIPLAKE COLLEGE
W shiplake.org.uk
Whole School Sat 21 Sept
Sat 22 March 2025
Sixth Form Sat 12 Oct
Also regular Headmaster’s lunch events with the Headmaster and other senior staff plus College tour. Bookings are first come, first served, and very popular! Please call Mrs Young on 0118 970 4764 to discuss dates
TASIS (THE AMERICAN SCHOOL IN ENGLAND)
W tasisengland.org
Sat 28 Sept - 0930
THE MANOR HOUSE BOOKHAM
W manorhouseschool.org
Whole School Sat 5 Oct - 0930
THE ROCHE SCHOOL
W therocheschool.com
Sat 21 Sept, Fri 18 Oct, Mon 18 Nov
Fri 17 Jan, Fri 28 Feb, Thurs 20 March, Fri 16 May, Wed 11 June 2025
THE VILLAGE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS
W thevillageschoolforgirls.co.uk
Open House on Monday and Wednesday mornings
TORMEAD SCHOOL
W tormeadschool.org.uk
Prep School
Fri 20 Sept, Fri 4 Oct
Fri 14 March, Fri 9 May 2025
Senior School
Sat 28 Sep, Fri 11 Oct
Wed 12 March, Thur 24 April 2025
Sixth Form Thur 19 Sept
WETHERBY PREP
W wetherbyprep.co.uk
Tue 15 Oct - 0900
Keep up to date on all open days at citykidsmagazine.co.uk
BEAUTY MEETS FUNCTION: DESIGNING A FAMILY HOME THAT WORKS
Not sure the two can co-exist? We have teamed up with our friends at The Living House, family friendly interior designers, to hear their top 5 tips on designing a family home that can work for everyone.
Catherine, design director and mum of three, shares her top tips on how she navigated the early years with her children, to create a beautiful and practical home.
1. Add lots and lots of storage
2. Durable finishes
3. Use upcycled furniture so you can relax
4. Multifunctional furniture and space
5. Focus on what you can control
In my family there is my daughter (13), my identical twin sons (10), two hairy cats, a hairy dog and me. That means I am outnumbered by both children and animals. And that’s not good, especially when I like to have a lovely home! It can feel like a daily battle. On the plus side, it does mean I have picked up some tips along the way that have helped us live in relative harmony!
Once upon a time, a very long time ago, my house was filled with grown-ups, with friends round for dinner, impractical cream sofas and delicate ornaments on low surfaces. It was a stylish child free zone with order and calm and we would
sit in the evenings with a glass of wine and a box of Maltesers watching Netflix. And then my daughter was born.
Pretty quickly it became clear that things were going to change. For someone so small she came with a lot of big stuff. Overnight the hallway was filled with a car seat, pram, bouncy play seat thing, changing bag, and as she grew so did the amount of stuff!! It wasn’t just the hallway that was full but the entire house. And then came twins…
The boys presented new challenges. They were a bundle of energy that nothing could stop. If something in the home wasn’t extra tough or nailed down it didn’t stand a chance. If you took your eye off them for a moment, curtains would come crashing down, lamps would topple, and shelves would be scaled. I learnt that the house and I needed to adapt fast if we were going to survive.
Over the years I have discovered some tips and tricks that have helped along the way. And to be honest, I’m still having to adapt and change as they move towards teenage years and endless Fortnite sessions. Living with children doesn’t end, it just keeps changing and challenging us. So here are the best five tips I can pass on, if you too are struggling to combine a beautiful home with your beautiful children.
LOTS AND LOTS OF STORAGE
This is really worth considering as early as possible in the design of your rooms. You cannot stay on top of clutter if you don’t have a home for everything. Like me, I’m sure your free time is very limited and it’s not my idea of fun to spend it trying to
Lots of storage, durable finishes & focus on what you can control
make sense of the mess! If it’s possible in your home, get built-in storage, and use every alcove to its full potential. I have added a window seat with cupboards below which are full of toys. I have had shelves and cupboards built into the alcoves, again to hide as much as possible. And I have picked up a large blanket box in a junk shop and painted it for all the large trucks, cars, diggers and a few dinosaurs. Belly baskets and wicker hampers are also great for toys and pesky Lego bricks and are much easier on the eye than lots of plastic boxes lined up. It’s amazing how fast I can sweep up 100 cars, 200 marbles and 500 plastic soldiers into their correct baskets these days!
Another pain point in my home is shoes. I swear they multiply overnight! Not being able to find the right pair for school, football, PE every day is a major cause of stress - not to mention a smelly eyesore in the hallway. So very recently I invested in an 18 pair shoe cabinet, and it has changed my life! I’m all for the pretty accessories in a room, but sometimes it is the things that solve a daily problem that give us the most pleasure - so don’t underestimate the importance of good storage.
DESIGNER TIP - before you even reach for the paint chart really consider the following:
● How many boxes of toys are there now?
● How many will there be in five year’s time?
● Do you need closed storage to hide things away or open shelves for easy access?
● What type of storage will enable you to tidy everything away quickly and in an organised way?
● Can you utilise an awkward corner of the room with built in units?
Once you know the answers to these questions it will help create a springboard
for the rest of the room design. You’ll know what to shop for so that everything has its place.
2
CHOOSE DURABLE FINISHES
It turns out the cream sofas weren’t such a stupid buy after all. 15 years on they are still going strong. The fabric was treated with Aquaclean and they really have withstood an awful lot of abuse over the years. When they start to look a decidedly dodgy shade of grey, I pop the covers in the washing machine and Vanish the arms - and hey presto good as new (do check you can wash your covers before you put them in the washing machine though!).
When you are buying for a family home, do try to find things that are reinforced in some way - sofas that are pre-treated with a stain repellent or have removable covers, cushion covers and throws that are washable, paint finishes that are tough and wipeable, and rugs that can be put in the washing machine. It’s just not fun moaning all the time at the kids about sticky fingers and dirty knees.
DESIGNER TIP - wipeable, washable, and tough is the way to go. Choosing patterns can also help to hide stains, like on a rug, rather than a plain option that shows every mark.
3
USE UPCYCLED FURNITURE SO YOU CAN RELAX!
Although I would love a beautiful oak coffee table, and some amazing lamps from Pooky, I know that I would be so sad when they got scratched by a toy car or knocked over by a flying ball. I used to have mirrored side tables and glass table lamps, but they got smashed a long time ago. And it is really upsetting. So instead I look for charity shop finds and search on eBay for cheaper solutions I can paint and bring back to life, but which aren’t going to be too precious either. If it does get broken it’s not the end of the world. And it’s amazing what you can do with some paint to freshen things up.
Repurposing old furniture is really useful for areas that you know are going to be messy or in heavy use. I painted a large old coffee table bright orange in my open plan kitchen for the children to use as a painting and crafting table. It’s just the right height for them to sit on the floor and use, and it’s not a disaster when the felt tip pens go over the edge of the paper, and the glitter and glue finds its way everywhere. If it gets too bad, I can always just add another coat of paint.
DESIGNER TIP
- before you buy new, check Facebook Marketplace and eBay to see if there’s a bargain to be had. So long as the shape and size is good, the rest can be changed with a coat of paint and some new handles.
4
MULTIFUNCTIONAL FURNITURE AND SPACE
If space or budget is limited in your home, it means that every piece you add to your room has to earn its place and be multifunctional. Small pouffes are real hard workers. They can be a seat, a side table and can have hidden storage inside. Ikea do some great ones. Have you considered the space under your sofa? A large drawer with wheels can slide in and out and is perfect to house jigsaws, train sets or Lego, and then disappear out of sight. If you are reluctant to have a coffee table because of bumped heads and lack of floor space, try adding a slim shelf right behind the sofa at the same height as the sofa back. This is a great place for hot drinks out of harm’s way, or even a lamp.
If possible, create an area that can have many uses that all the family can use in different ways. My living room and dining room are open plan. The dining room end hasn’t been a ‘dining room’ for many years. It is kept relatively free of furniture so that it can become a sleepover den, a battlefield, a shop, a place for cartwheels and football (not strictly allowed!!) and every other elaborate game they can think of. And at the end of the day, they happily tidy it all away back into the cupboards (who am I kidding?!!). But it does at least mean the mess can stay down one end of the room
so that the living room end can remain toy and somersault free.
5
FOCUS ON WHAT YOU CAN CONTROL
It can be really frustrating to see your home taken over by brightly coloured plastic, and your own sense of style being pushed into the background. It can feel overwhelming at times (I’ve been there!) and the complete opposite of the relaxing home you wanted - and probably once had. I have found it helpful to focus on the things I can control. Find an area that you can style and that won’t be ‘kiddified’. In my living dining room, the cupboards are for the kids’ stuff I want to hide, and the high shelves and mantlepiece are the areas I concentrate on. In the evenings, the toys can be put away and then the room has a more adult, relaxed feel. The shelves can stay how I want them except for the odd stray banned ball (are you getting the idea that I have a problem with balls in the house?).
DESIGNER TIP - can the toys be hidden if you don’t have the energy to put them away in the evenings? A bamboo/wicker screen pulled across a corner of the room could hide a multitude of sins and make you feel more relaxed in the space.
If you would like some help designing your home with the whole family in mind, take a look at The Living House’s affordable online interior design packages. Whether you’re considering a full redesign or a spruce up, they can take the stress away, and give you the confidence to move forward. Their online interior design packages are a flat fee, and they can work to any budget large or small, saving you money along the way and ensuring you get the results you want and expect!
PIP ORGANIC PIPSTICKS, £19.99 FOR PACK OF 24 piporganic.com
OATY SPLIT STIX, £3 organix.com
TINY TASTEBUDS
The Yummy Little Belly cookbook is jampacked with simple, nutritious meal ideas for babies and toddlers from six months up. Romina’s mission is to bring harmony to mealtimes with tasty, balanced recipes approved by a paediatric dietitian. The cookbook features everything from fruit and veg-packed pancakes to homemade veggie nuggets, nutrient-rich pastas, risottos and healthy bakes. Check out her recipes on page 57. £18.99 amazon.co.uk
Natalie Peall’s new book is a definitive guide and cookbook to baby led weaning including 60 healthy recipes, all suitable for six months old and above and adaptable for the whole family. As a mum of three and creator of the Baby Led Weaning Cookbook App, Natalie is a leading voice in empowering and educating parents on how to safely guide their little ones to discover new tastes and textures. £20 quercusbooks.co.uk
What’s New
A WORLD OF FLAVOUR A CELEBRATION OF FOOD AND RECIPES FROM AROUND THE GLOBE
With gorgeous illustrations from Tania García Jimenez, Gabrielle Langholtz’s book celebrates the unique culinary cultures of over 40 different countries around the world. Through fun, fact-filled country specific pages she highlights the fantastic flavours, produce, types of foods (such as ice creams, breads, and noodles) that are shared across cultures but given their own unique twists. Available to pre-order £24.95 phaidon.com
SQUISHMALLOWS:
THE OFFICIAL BAKING BOOK
With 50 recipes inspired by fan favourite Squishmallows, you can look forward to delights such as Cam’s three-colour dough cookies, Hans’s chocolate truffles with sprinkles, Lesedi’s cinnamon rolls, Bethany’s Linzer love heart cookies and Mac’s pumpkin spiced whoopie pies! £16.99 waterstones.com
YUMMY LITTLE BELLY
Berry Granola Bars
These portable bars are packed with all the good stuff we should be enjoying at breakfast for plenty of energy throughout the morning or after school when energy levels are low. The best thing about these bars is that you can customise them to create a flavour you love by switching around the dried berries, nuts, nut butter and jam.
225g porridge oats
40g soft light brown sugar
75g dried cherries, cranberries or blueberries (or a mixture)
75g chopped pecan nuts
½ tsp flaked sea salt
½ tsp ground cinnamon
40g coconut oil
125g nut butter (ie cashew, almond, peanut or hazelnut)
1. Heat the oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Line a 20cm square baking tin with baking parchment.
2. Put 50g oats in a food processor and blitz until you have a fine powder that resembles flour. Transfer to a large mixing bowl and add the remaining oats, sugar, dried berries, coconut, pecans, salt and cinnamon. Briefly mix to combine.
3. Put the coconut oil, nut butter and maple syrup in a small saucepan and place over a gentle heat stir until everything has melted together. Pour this over the top of the dry ingredients in the bowl and mix well so everything is coated in the syrupy nut butter.
4. Transfer the granola mixture into the prepared tin, keeping a large handful back in the bowl. Press firmly into the base and sides using the back of a spoon. Spoon over the jam and spread over the surface. Finish
by scattering the reserved granola on top. 5. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden and crunchy on top. Allow to cool in the tin before turning out onto a board and cutting into bars. Keeps for up to 1 week in an airtight container.
FLEXIBLE
Flavour Swap:
Apricot and Chocolate Chip Use 75g chopped apricots in place of the berries and stir in 75g dark chocolate chips (dairyfree if you are vegan) into the granola, and top with apricot jam instead of a berry jam. Honey, Sultana and Almond Granola Bars Use 75g sultanas in place of dried berries and 75g chopped almonds in place of the pecan nuts. Rather than maple syrup use the same amount of runny honey. Just to point out, this isn’t suitable for vegans with it using honey.
The Flexible Baker by Jo Pratt, £20 White Lion Publishing Photography: Malou Burger Jo-pratt.com @cookwithjopratt
Golden Vegetable Patties
These little golden pockets are packed with veggies and ideal for after school snacks, they are just as handy to enjoy at lunchtime or even to take on a picnic.
The pastry is made using chickpea flour. Which not only have a great flavour that’s ideal for savoury recipes, it’s also naturally gluten free, therefore very handy for those with allergies or intolerances.
PASTRY
300g chickpea flour, plus extra for dusting
½ tsp xanthan flour
1 tsp ground turmeric
½ tsp salt
150g unsalted butter, cold and cut into 1cm cubes
150ml cold water
1 egg, beaten
FILLING
2 tbsp sunflower oil
1 small onion, finely diced
1 medium carrot, grated
1 small sweet potato, peeled and grated
1 small courgette, grated
1 clove garlic, grated
1tsp root ginger, grated
½ red or green chilli, finely chopped
200g tinned chopped tomatoes
flaked sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
1. To make the pastry, put the flour, xanthan gum, turmeric and salt into a large bowl. Add the butter and rub the mixture together with the tips of your fingers until it looks like coarse breadcrumbs.
2. Add 150ml of cold water and until you have a ball of soft, slightly sticky dough, adding a little more water if required. The dough needs to be a little wet as this will absorb into the flour while resting. Cover in cling film and chill in the fridge while you make the filling.
pan and cook the onion until it is softened. Add the carrot, sweet potato, courgette, garlic, ginger and chilli. Cook for about 8 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
4. Stir in the tinned tomatoes and add some salt and pepper to season. Cook for 5 minutes until thickened. Remove from the heat and let the filling cool.
5. Pre-heat the oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 3.
6. Divide the pastry into 12 and roll into balls. Roll each one out into a circle on a lightly floured worktop to roughly 10 cm in diameter and about 5 mm thick. Keep turning as you roll to prevent the pastry from sticking to the worktop.
7. Place a spoon of your cooled filling in the middle of each pastry circle. Brush around the outside with beaten egg and fold each circle in half. Press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges. Brush the surface of each pattie with
the egg and sit on a baking tray.
8. Bake for 20 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool for 10 minutes before eating.
FLEXIBLE
Vegan: Use a plant-based butter for the pastry. As an alternative for the egg, you can use water to seal the patties and brush the tops with sunflower or olive oil.
Flavour Swap: To make Spiced Jamaica Lamb Patties, make the pastry as above. For the filling, gently sauté 1 small diced onion in 1 tbsp sunflower oil until golden. Add 250g lamb mince, 1 grated carrot, 2 cloves grated garlic, 2cm piece grated ginger and 1 tbsp mild or medium curry powder. Fry over a high heat for 5 minutes until the meat is cooked through. Stir in 1 tbsp tomato puree, season with salt and pepper and leave to cool. Use to fill the patties as above.
Let’s Do Brunch!
A firm favourite meal at City Kids HQ, a brunch is a great addition to a family day out in the city. Begin your adventure by exploring the bustling streets and indulging in a bite at one of our top picks for family-friendly brunches in London.
BREAD STREET KITCHEN
– ST PAUL’S
Breakfast in style a t Bread Street Kitchen in the very heart of London town. Gordon Ramsay’s restaurant and open kitchen design offer an interactive experience with a diverse menu that will please adults and children alike. Order pancake stacks with fresh berries, mini beef burgers, eggs Benedict, shakshuka and more. Top tip: make your reservation ahead of time. gordonramseyrestaurants.com
SERPENTINE BAR & KITCHEN
On the eastern edge of the Serpentine in Hyde Park, you’ll find the Serpentine Bar & Kitchen, serving delicious food from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. all summer. Enjoy a delicious, family-friendly brunch with a view of Serpentine Lake. The family-friendly menu boasts everything from Shakshuka and traditional full English (with vegan options, too) to muesli and pancakes. benugo.com
WHERE TH E PANCAKES ARE – SOUTHWAR K
Pancakes are a sure-fire hit with most kids, so you’ll find this pancake house a dream come true. Children can build their own pancakes, selecting three mouth-watering toppings. Choose from sweet and savoury options, including streaky bacon, halloumi, blueberries, strawberries, chocolate sauce and sea-salted caramel. wherethepancakesare.com
FARM GIRL – NOTTING HILL
Farm Girl brings a healthy twist to traditional brunch fare. The menu is packed with nutritious and delicious options like acai bowls and avocado toast. The café’s vibrant, dogfriendly patio is a hit with families who don’t want their four-legged friends to miss out on all the fun. thefarmgirl.co.uk
ROMINA BERTINAZZO
has taken social media by storm with over 1.4m followers across her @yummy_little_belly Instagram and Facebook accounts. Her mission is to share deliciously simple recipes for happy children and happy parents and her reels often go viral. Now, she launches a beautiful cookbook packed full of simple, varied and tasty meal ideas for babies and toddlers from 6 months onwards. We’ve selected two recipes that a family of all ages will enjoy.
YUMMY IN MY TUMMY
DELICIOUSLY SIMPLE RECIPES FOR LITTLE TUMMIES FROM ROMINA BERTINAZZO
Sweet Potato Biscuits
MAKES 40 biscuits
PREP 15 minutes
COOK 10 minutes
AGE from 6 months s
230g s weet potato, peeled and roughly chopped
50g unsal ted butter or dairy-free butter, melted
150g selfraising flour
30g wholemeal flour (or more self-raising flour)
VEGAN NO EGGS NO DAIRY
The perfect on-the-go snack – a favourite of both my little ones and myself! Made with simple ingredients you likely already have at home, I’ve added wholemeal flour for extra fibre, but regular flour works just as well. One bite and you won’t be able to stop!
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/350°F/gas 4.
2. Steam the sweet potato over a gentle heat for 15–20 minutes until soft, then set aside to cool. Once cooled, weigh out 200g of the potato (any leftovers can be discarded or saved for later use).
3. Put the sweet potato into a large bowl and mash with a fork.
4. Add the melted butter and flours and mix together to form a dough.
5 . Put the dough onto a sheet of baking paper and roll out to 5mm (1/4 inch) thick, then cut into shapes with a cookie cutter. Alternatively, you can cut it with a sharp knife or a pizza wheel to make small squares.
6. Transfer the baking paper and biscuits to a baking tray and bake in the oven for 10 minutes until lightly golden, checking to make sure they don’t overcook.
7 . Remove from the oven and allow to cool before serving.
8. Buon appetito!
STORAGE
Store in an airtight container for 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Green Risotto
Whenever I ask Grace what she wants to eat, her answer is always ‘the green risotto’! This dish is packed with iron and all the nutrients your little one needs to keep growing strong.
SERVES 2
PREP 5 minutes
COOK 20 minutes
AGE from 6 months
1. Heat the oil in a saucepan over a medium heat, then add the onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
2 Meanwhile, put spinach and water into a food processor and blend until smooth, then add to the pan.
3. Add the rice and stock cube, bring to the boil reduce the heat to lowmedium and cook for 10 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking.
4. Add the peas and cook for a further 7 minutes, adding a bit more water if needed.
5. Once the rice is cooked and the risotto is thick and creamy, remove from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan and the butter and allow to rest for 1–2 minutes.
6. Serve with an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan, if desired.
7. Buon appetito!
NOTE:
For babies under 1 year old, flatten the peas before serving.
STORAGE
If cooled within 1 hour, the risotto can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight. Reheat over a medium heat until heated through.
TIPS
This green risotto is so hearty and packed with veggies that it makes for a satisfying dinner on its own, but for an extra boost of nutrition, I usually serve it with a side of fresh fruit. For older children and adults, you can add 1 teaspoon salt if using an unsalted stock.
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
30g onion, finely chopped
50g spinach leaves
500ml water,plus extra as needed
160g arborio rice
1 low-salt vegetable stock cube
60g frozen peas
30g grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra to serve
10g unsalted butter
NO EGGS VEGETARIAN
Explore
TRIPS p60 WHO IS? p66
RECONNECT WITH NATURE
The Forsthofgut in is surrounded by mountains, forests and meadows and is the perfect base for yearround outdoor adventures, with a ski slope running right past the hotel. In warmer weather, guests can enjoy the 30,000m² garden area, complete with organic bathing lake. forsthofgut.at/en
LE BRISTOL PARIS
If you have cash to splash and fancy an adventure somewhere closer to home, why not take the Eurostar to Paris?
Le Bristol Paris is a luxurious, familyfriendly hotel offering spacious family suites and interconnecting rooms, providing ample space to relax and unwind. Ideally located in the heart of the city, the hotel makes it easy to explore all that Paris has to offer. Guests can enjoy a stunning rooftop pool with spectacular views of Paris and children will love the kids’ club with its scheduled games and activities. Adults can also take advantage of the babysitting service for a carefree, kid-free evening out.
THE TREEHOUSE HOTEL LONDON
Looking for staycation inspo?
Situated in the heart of Marylebone, Treehouse Hotel London offers stunning views of the city skyline and London’s most iconic landmarks, making it the perfect base for exploring the capital. The hotel’s ‘Family Tree’ package promises a fun-filled stay for families, complete
with welcome treats on arrival. Children can set up camp with their own in-room teepees, enjoy a movie night with milk and cookies and get creative with Treehouse colouring books and board games. Local attractions include ZSL London Zoo, the British Museum and Hamley’s—all within easy reach of the hotel.
Dubai is at its best from November to April, when skies are blue and temperatures remain steady at over 25°C. Jumeirah Burj Al Arab is situated on its own private island and is an allsuite hotel, offering spacious two- and three-bedroom suites which are perfect for family holidays. Complementing this, the property’s collection of signature restaurants offers something for all tastes, whilst experiences range from thrilling adventures on the Arabian Gulf to relaxation at the Talise Spa. Children and teenagers have free access to nearby kids’ clubs, the Wild Wadi Waterpark and Jumeriah’s Turtle Rehabilitation Programme, where guests can see the initial stages of rehabilitation care first-hand the Burj Al Arab’s aquarium, whilst parents can indulge in luxurious treatments at Talise Spa or head to Skyview Lounge for masterful mixology and unbeatable views from the 27th floor.
THE NEW FOREST CABIN: A WOODLAND HAVEN IN THE HEART OF HAMPSHIRE
Nestled in the enchanting New Forest National Park, The New Forest Cabin offers a tranquil retreat amidst 12 acres of private woodland. Ideal for families, this self-catering three-bedroom cabin provides an authentic off-grid experience. Surrounded by lakes and picturesque landscapes, you’ll enjoy woodlands, heathlands and meandering streams just steps away. Thoughtfully designed with modern amenities and rustic charm, the cabin accommodates up to six guests with an open-plan living area leading to a relaxing sun deck. Dogfriendly, with easy access to local pubs and New Forest trails.
thenewforestcabin.co.uk
Discover Lapland’s beauty, history and culture with a trip to Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Father Christmas. Spend the night in an igloo at the Arctic Snow Hotel, feel the wind on your cheeks on a sleigh pulled by huskies, and meet the “man in red” at the Santa Claus Village. Learn about Sámi culture and meet local reindeer, take in the snowy scenery of the Finnish valleys and woodlands, and walk through the magical streets of Rovaniemi. There’s so much to do, including the chance to glimpse the heavenly northern lights once it’s dark.
LEPORTETTA, COURCHEVEL 1650 FRANCE
Portetta is a short journey from the magical children’s ski village and the Aquamotion swimming and leisure complex in Courchevel, with indoor and outdoor swimming pools, slides, river rapids and a play area.
After a long day of skiing or unwinding in the Portetta Spa, families can grab a pizza at the hotel’s outdoor Fire & Ice bar,
snuggle up in a fur rug next to log-burning fires, or indulge in the Italian-influenced mountain food of Angela Hartnett’s only international restaurant, Cucina Angelina. The children’s menu offers delicious dishes, including Chicken Milanese, Fish Goujons, freshly made pasta sauces and the firm favourite, Angela’s Mac & Cheese.
PHOTO: Amy Murrell
It’s never too early to book Christmas activities.
1GLIDE AT BATTERSEA POWER STATION
Experience the magic of the holiday season at Glide, set against the iconic Battersea Power Station. Take the kids ice skating on three interlinked rinks illuminated by twinkling lights and a towering 30ft Christmas tree with incredible views of the Thames. Enjoy a mug of hot chocolate or a festive drink in The Glass House, where floor-to-ceiling glass walls provide the perfect vantage point to watch skaters glide by and admire the stunning architecture of Battersea Power Station. With its own Zone 1 Underground station and the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers Pier, the area is easily accessible and perfect for a full day of activities thanks to the venue’s 120 shops, bars, cafes, restaurants and entertainment venues.
WHEN: 8th November 2024 - 5th January 2025 glidebatterseapowerstation.co.uk
CHRISTMAS AT KEW
2
SANTA SPECIAL AT BLUEBELL RAILWAY
Escape London for the day and head down to leafy East Grinstead for a festive outing on board the Santa Special steam-hauled train at the Bluebell Railway. Take a scenic trip through the beautiful Sussex winter countryside to Horsted Keynes, where you’ll follow a special route to Santa’s grotto to meet the man himself and receive a special gift. The fun continues with fairground rides, festive treats and mulled wine for the grownups. Don’t forget to pick up a memento from the gift shop before climbing back onboard for a cosy return journey!
WHEN: 8th, 15th, 22nd & 24th December2024
Herald the start of C hristmas or welcome in the New Year with a magical stroll under the stars at Kew Gardens. Follow one of the UK’s most acclaimed illuminated trails, where seasonal cheer, twinkling lights and festive sounds bring the botanical gardens to life to celebrate Christmas. Explore glittering tunnels of light, watch dancing reflections on the lake and admire trees adorned in jewel-like colours. Keep an eye out for a glimpse of Father Christmas along the way! The route will be lined with independent street vendors offering delicious hot food, sweet treats, and spiced winter warmers.
WHEN: Selected dates, 13th November 2024 - 5th January 2025
CHRISTMAS IN LEICESTER SQUARE
Christmas in Leicester Square is set to dazzle again this year, transforming the heart of London into a festive wonderland. Running from mid-November to early January, the square will be brimming with holiday cheer and a variety of attractions for families.
A traditional Christmas market will host a delightful mix of crafts, gifts and food stalls. It’s the perfect spot for Christmas shopping, with chalets selling festive decorations, stocking fillers and clothes. Enjoy seasonal treats like bratwurst, mac and cheese, churros and chocolate-covered strawberries washed down with hot chocolate or a festive winter warmer for the adults!
WHEN: Mid November - Early January
christmasinleicestersquare.com
MADDIE MOATE’S VERY CURIOUS CHRISTMAS AT APOLLO THEATRE
Everybody’s favourite children’s TV presenter, Maddie Moate, debuts her brand-new show in the West End this festive season, and it’s not to be missed. Based on her hit book, A Very Curious Christmas, Maddie’s show explores fun and exciting facts about the most wonderful time of the year. A seasonal STEM adventure that uncovers the science of winter, mysteries behind Christmas traditions and answers to some of the most curious Christmas questions. How do crackers go BANG? Why do sprouts make you fart? Get set for an interactive show brimming with holiday cheer the whole family will love. Suitable for children 4+.
WHEN: 6th December 2024 - 4th January, 2025
HOGWARTS IN THE SNOW
“Hogwarts in the Snow” sees the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London transform into a magical winter wonderland. From mid-November to midJanuary, visitors can experience the enchantment of the Harry Potter films with iconic sets like the Great Hall, Diagon Alley and the Forbidden Forest decked out in festive decorations and a blanket of snow. Special effects create a truly immersive experience, with fires crackling in the fireplaces and snow falling softly in the courtyards. Guests can marvel at the intricately detailed props and costumes, learn how filmmakers created the wintery scenes and even see the famous Hogwarts castle model covered in snow.
WHEN: 16th November 2024 – 19th January 2025
PHOTO: Pasco Photography
THE DR LOUISE NEWSON PODCAST
If you’re looking for expert advice on menopause, Dr Louise Newson’s podcast is your go-to. As a leading menopause specialist, she breaks down complex medical information into easyto-understand conversations, empowering women with the knowledge they need to navigate menopause with confidence.
EFFIN HORMONES
Four friends, one mission: to tackle perimenopause with a blend of humour, honesty, and unfiltered chat. Emma, Beena, Terri, and Helen are here to make you laugh, cry, and nod in agreement as they share the ups and downs of hormonal rollercoasters. Perfect for anyone needing a dose of laughter alongside menopause talk.
Podcasts
by VICTORIA EVANS
THE LIZ EARLE WELLBEING SHOW
Liz Earle, the wellness guru, brings her warmth and expertise to this must-listen podcast. Dive into rich conversations about menopause, health, and lifestyle tips that help you navigate this new chapter with grace. With Liz’s soothing voice and practical advice, this podcast feels like chatting with a wise, caring friend.
THE MENOPAUSE COACH
Adele Johnston, a certified nutritionist, takes you on a journey to reclaim your health during menopause. With a focus on practical advice and empowerment, Adele offers actionable tips that make this podcast a go-to for women ready to take control of their well-being.
MENOPAUSE WHILST BLACK
Karen Arthur’s powerful podcast gives a voice to Black women navigating menopause. Through heartfelt conversations, Karen shines a light on the unique challenges faced by women of colour. It’s a vital listen for anyone looking to broaden their understanding and find community in shared experiences.
THE HAPPY MENOPAUSE
Nutritionist Jackie Lynch serves up practical advice on how to eat your way to a happier, healthier menopause. Each episode is packed with tips on managing symptoms through diet and lifestyle, making it an empowering resource for women looking to take charge of their menopause journey.
REAL MENOPAUSE TALK
Hatty McCafferty creates a safe space where women share their menopause stories without filters. It’s real, raw, and refreshingly honest. Whether it’s about the emotional highs or the challenges, these stories remind you that you’re not alone, offering a sense of community and understanding.
POSTCARDS FROM MIDLIFE
Hosted by former magazine editors Trish Halpin and Lorraine Candy, this podcast navigates the highs and lows of midlife with warmth and wit. Covering topics from menopause to parenting teens, it’s like chatting with friends who offer expert insights, relatable stories, and plenty of laughs.
Books
by VICTORIA EVANS
PRE-SCHOOLERS
HOW WE SHARE CAKE
Kim Hyo-eun, illustration Deborah Smith, £12.99 Scribble UK
This is more than just a story; it’s a tender exploration of sibling dynamics, sharing, and compromise within a large family. Told through the eyes of a child, this book paints a vivid picture of the ups and downs that come with dividing something as simple—and yet as special—as a cake among three sisters and two brothers. How We Share Cake offers a perfect blend of humour, heart, and beautiful artwork.
LITTLE KIDS WONDERGROUND
Harry Miller, illustration Stephanie Zhao
£7.99 The Book Guild Ltd
While stuck on a stationary tube one day, Harry Miller channeled his musical talents into crafting poetry, resulting in Wonderground —a delightful book filled with vibrant characters, rich cultural references, and fascinating facts about London. Its cross-generational humor and charm make it a must-read for city-dwelling parents and those just visiting with their little ones. Wonderground offers a unique, playful way to explore London, making family time both educational and entertaining.
BIG KIDS
TRICK OR TREAT ON SCARY STREET
Lance Bass, illustration Roland Garrigue £8.99, Union Square & Co
NSYNC fans, take note! Lance Bass puts a new twist on Halloween with his latest picture book, Trick or Treat on Scary Street. Inspired by Lance’s love for the spooky season, this story follows thirteen trick-or-treaters as they embark on a thrilling adventure down Scary Street, guided by a charismatic—but possibly unreliable—leader. It’s a fun, festive read that captures the excitement and mystery of Halloween, perfect for families looking to share some spooky delight with their little ones.
PRE-SCHOOLERS
THE SHY BOOK
Howard Pearlstein, illustration
James Munro £7.99 Graffeg
Perfect for children going to school or nursery for the first time or anyone starting a new school, The Shy Book is an interactive picture book by award-winning author Howard Pearlstein which features the book itself as the main character. The book is shy, so thinks the reader will find it boring, but as the book starts asking the reader questions, it becomes braver and gains confidence.
LITTLE KIDS.
PERLA: THE MIGHTY DOG
Isabel Allende, illustration Sandy Rodriguez From international best-selling author, Isabel Allende comes Perla, a small dog with a BIG personality. When the Rico family, a Mexican-American household, adopts Perla in hopes of finding a guard dog, they get much more than they expected. Perla quickly bonds with seven-year-old Nico Rico, who’s struggling with school bullies, and together they form an unbreakable team. Before long, Perla not only helps Nico stand up for himself but also transforms the lives of the entire Rico family, earning a special place in their hearts forever.
BIG KIDS
100
WAYS TO SAVE THE PLANET
Tim Jordan, illustration Joshua Rice, £12.99 Button Books
This lively book is filled with fun and meaningful activities designed inspire young minds to take action, fostering a deep love for the planet and showing that saving the world is within everyone’s reach. From growing your own vegetables and sewing, to organising a school seed bank and building a bird box, each vibrant page offers practical tips, fascinating facts, and engaging projects that empower kids to recycle, reuse, reduce, and repair.
who is? VICTORIA EVANS
CELEBRATING
10 YEARS OF CITY KIDS, MEET THE WOMAN BEHIND THE MAGAZINE.
Describe yourself in three words. Busy. Optimistic. Kind.
Tell us about your City Kids. So much about the world has changed since I started City Kids. I remember spending time looking for classes and activities to do when the children were younger and I couldn’t find one go-to place to find all the information I wanted. So, with a touch of naivety, I thought I could create that space and City Kids was born. With no real publishing experience I quickly learned that the magazine should be more than just a listings resource, so I grew content to cover fashion, education, interiors, food, travel and parenting advice. Today we have our beloved print magazine, a website and engaged social platforms.
Who inspires you?
I’m inspired by many of the people who have taken the plunge to set up their own businesses. It’s important for me to champion those behind the small brands, often parents, who juggle parenting with the all-consuming nature of running your own business. And I also have to say my friends. Some of them I’ve known for 40 years so we know each other, warts and all, and they never cease to amaze me.
What’s been the most challenging aspect of running City Kids?
The media landscape has changed
massively over the last 10 years. Can you believe that we rarely used apps and there were plenty of magazines on the shelves? Adapting to change is always a challenge for any business owner, but the hardest aspect has probably been being the boss and not always having colleagues to brainstorm with. Luckily, I’ve met some great people in the parenting world and have a great team around me who I can now share thoughts and ideas with.
What have you learned about yourself whilst running a business?
I love discovering and researching new brands and meeting their owners. The longer I do this, I’ve discovered that I particularly enjoy introducing like-minded people to each other and watching them collaborate and share ideas. I’ve also remained true to my broadcasting routes and love a deadline!
What advice would you give anyone setting up a business?
Find something that really fires you up and don’t expect to ever really switch off, especially in the early days when you are building. It’s likely you will be the accountant, delivery driver, creative, designer, copywriter, project manager and marketing department until you grow large enough to take on staff.
Tell us something no one knows about you.
I was a lacrosse goalkeeper in a previous life.
Last book you read?
Unruly by David Mitchell.
What’s your favourite London restaurant?
Not technically a restaurant, but The Whistling Oyster in Chiswick serves the freshest fish and seafood alongside delicious English wines. It’s also a fishmonger and the staff are really friendly and helpful.
Where’s your favourite place to go in London with the children?
The Natural History Museum never ceases to amaze.
What would you take to a desert island? My family.
Signature dish?
Currently perfecting Paella Valenciana.
Your proudest moment.
Watching my children become lovely human beings.
What’s next for Victoria Evans?
Full steam ahead with City Kids Magazine. Lots of exciting things in the pipeline so watch this space!
