Families NW London Magazine issue 116 Sept 2017

IN THIS ISSUE

Local clubs and classes

State and Independent School Open Days!

Issue 116 September 2017

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Welcome to the September issue!

CONTACT US: Families North West London Magazine Editors: Heather Waddington and Janine Mergler P.O. Box 2378, Watford WD18 1RF T: 01923 237 004 E: Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

IN THIS ISSUE: Families News

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5 Mummy On The Edge

www.facebook.com/ FamiliesNWLondon

10 School Open Days

16 Clubs and Classes

@FamiliesNWLon Circulation 30,000+ copies every issue.

Published seven times a year. For families from birth to twelve.

26 What’s On

30 Childrens Theatre

UPCOMING ISSUES: October 2017 - Education and Schools Deadline: 10th Sept 2017 Nov/Dec 2017 - Seasonal Celebrations Deadline: 10th Oct 2017

Cover image: depositphotos.com

Send in your news, stories and advertising bookings to the details left.

Where is Families North West London?

Feature images used under license from depositphotos.com.

Other images have been supplied by independent sources.

Families North West London Magazine is distributed bi-monthly throughout north west London. An area bordered by the A40 to the south, by the A5/M1 to the east and out towards the M25 in the north and west.

You can collect a copy FREE from scores of outlets: schools, nurseries, play groups, clubs and classes, sports centres, children’s libraries, family doctors and baby clinics, theatres, your local council offices and children’s shops.

If you would like to stock copies to give to parents, please let us know.

Distributed to over 30,000 families!

NEWS Local school is finalist in national diversity awards Mulberry House school NW2 has been applauded for providing an inspirational learning environment and has been nominated from 22,000 entrants to become a finalist for this year’s National Diversity Awards.

The Mulberry House School was founded in 1989 with the aim of developing a love of learning within each child and the 2017 ISI inspection highlighted the school’s commitment to both children’s academic achievements as well as personal development by awarding them with ‘excellent’ across all areas.

Daily activities across the school promote respect for all cultures, faiths and lifestyles, with events such as Africa day and Indian cultural week.

The school nurtures community understanding and acceptance of our differences.

Winners of the NDA will be announced on Friday, September 8th at the Anglican Cathedral, Liverpool. www.NationalDiversityAwards.co.uk

Local charity benefits from cash boost from regional builder Herts Inclusive Theatre in Watford, which provides specialist arts and theatre sessions for disabled children, young adults and adults, applied to Persimmon Homes North London to become one of its monthly Community Champions. The builder chooses two groups per month to receive a donation through the popular scheme.

The charity received £1,000 to spend on much-needed equipment, including a rainbow wave parachute, three disability friendly cameras, a sensory resource kit, coloured wristbands to aid emotion work, six ear defenders and three magnetic drawing boards to aid communication.

Caroline Stevens, artistic director at Herts Inclusive Theatre, said: “This donation will make a tremendous difference and we cannot thank Persimmon Homes enough.

“The equipment will be used in our weekly sessions and during holiday activities. Having access to items such as these will enable our workshop leaders to improve the sessions they offer, enabling them to engage with the most disabled and disadvantaged participants within the activities, including those with behavioural, speech and language difficulties.

Visit www.hit-theatre.org.uk and www.persimmonhomes.com/ charity for further information on the charity or the grant opportunities.

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

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NEWS Local dance-school pupil on tour with English National Ballet

Colindale Primary School Brings Colour To The RAF Museum!

The RAF Museum in Hendon is currently undergoing a multi-millionpound transformation supported by National Lottery players through the Heritage Lottery Fund to celebrate and commemorate the 100th anniversary of the RAF next year.

The Museum is open to the public whilst re-landscaping and building work are active on site, so to brighten the place up, local schoolchildren from Colindale Primary School have designed a multi-coloured banner that celebrates the aviation heritage of the area. The banner will be on display around the Museum as building works continue.

Colindale Primary School is an official partner in the Museum’s RAF Centenary Programme which will in 2018 welcome visitors to a new green heart of the community, reflecting the historic RAF Hendon airfield. New, innovative galleries will explore the first 100 years of the RAF, its roles today and entice visitors to imagine its future contribution and technology. Plus, a new digital sharing project will promote conversation with a global audience and help connect people to the RAF story, sharing information onsite and online. www.rafmuseum.org

The van Niekerk Academy of Dance was established in 2001 and many hundreds of students have very successfully gained their Royal Academy of Dance ballet exams, as well as appear in the school dance shows. Former students have gone on to full time vocational schools such as Tring Park, Central School of Ballet, Kiev State Opera , Ballet West, YDA, Millennium and Performers. Former student Betsy Smith, pictured, is shortly to dance on tour with the English National Ballet.

For further information on ballet classes from age 3 upwards please contact Suzanne at suzanne.vnad@gmail.com

Get your half-term camps planned early!

Perform’s Wizard of Oz themed dance, drama and singing courses for 4-7s Inspire your child’s imagination this October half-term with one of Perform’s unique holiday courses.

On these one and three-day courses, the children will enter a world of musical fantasy as they re-enact the much-loved story of the Wizard of Oz. Join the adventure on the Yellow Brick Road with Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Lion and the Tin Man as they set out to find the Wizard. Your child will delight in discovering the Ruby Slippers and exploring the magical world of Oz with our friendly team of singers, dancers and actors.

Dates: Monday 23rd October, 10am - 3pm; Venues: St Lukes Hall – HA5 Contact: T: 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform. org.uk/holidays To find out more, visit www.perform.org.uk/holidays

A brand new small, friendly state school in Harrow.

We are open to the whole community, offer flexible holidays, extended school days and an excellent child-centred, internationally-focused curriculum, including Spanish taught from Reception.

Where childhood is magical Our proposed site is a beautiful, green five acres on Pinner View, West Harrow. Our brand new, purpose built school will see classrooms extending outside, getting children active and engaged with their world.

A world class education Our curriculum looks for the areas such as music that build academic success and skills for the modern world, but also happiness and individuality. Children’s learning is mapped to the national curriculum whilst emphasising creativity, problem solving, hands-on experience and fun.

In a school developed, owned and run by the community We are a co-operative school – Government funded but owned and run by local teachers and parents.

Life is an adventure, and we are determined to make it amazing. Why not join us?

Visit our website to learn more and book onto an open day.

www.mariposaprimaryschool.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Families North West London 3

NEWS John Lyon pupils help combat Holiday Hunger by donating 538 kilos of food to the Harrow Foodbank Holiday Hunger is a growing problem in the UK for many children.

When School kitchens close for the long summer holiday many children who are eligible for free school meals are left hungry. John Lyon pupils wanted to do something to help alleviate this issue in the last few weeks of the Summer term. Pupils worked together to support those in need in Harrow by ‘paying’ for the privilege of wearing their own clothes with food donations to the Harrow Food bank. More than 538 kilos of food was donated to the Harrow Food Bank by the children!

Mrs Plummer, Senior Teacher, said “This is an excellent initiative as pupils from across the School community learnt about the reality of holiday hunger and worked together to help those in greater need” The John Lyon School, Harrow has a richly deserved reputation for providing an excellent all-round education that combines high academic standards with excellence in Sport and the Arts. At JLS every pupil matters. @JohnLyonHarrow www.johnlyon.org; www.harrow.foodbank.org.uk

100 Ukuleles donated to hospitalised children in the UK... with more to follow!

Ukulele Kids Club UK has recently reached a milestone of donating 100 ukuleles to hospitalised children around the UK. Including ukuleles donated through funds raised by generous online donors and also actual ukuleles that have been sent into the #UASAmnesty campaign.

With eleven hospitals having already received ukuleles and several more in the pipeline, the Ukulele Kids Club UK continues to grow from strength to strength, spreading the message that “Music Heals” in hospitals from Bristol to Glasgow and many in between.

Recent research has highlighted the many medical benefits, that can be gained as part of structured music therapy. From aiding with depression and anxiety to decreasing recovery times following serious medical procedures, music and musical instruments can have a hugely beneficial impact.

To find out more about how the Ukulele Kids Club UK functions visit the website at uk.theukc.org

Register for Wear A Hat Day 2018 and start planning your event!

Wear A Hat Day is the UK’s premier brain tumour research fundraising event. It takes place on Thursday 29th March 2018. March is also UK Brain Tumour Awareness Month. Schools and families across the country get involved to help raise funds for research into brain tumours’. Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer… yet just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease. Families are being left devastated by this dreadful disease. This is unacceptable!

Brain Tumour Research is the only national charity in the UK that is purely dedicated to raising funds for continuous and sustainable scientific research into brain tumours. Taking part can be as simple as putting on a hat and donating on the day, but most families like to create entertaining fundraising events. Many schools for example have inventive hat competitions, parades and fashion shows and raise hundreds if not thousands of pounds.

On average, organisations raise £250, with small ones £50 and some raising more than £2,000! Whatever target you set yourselves aim to smash it!!

More information, event ideas and fundraising tips can be found online: www.wearahatday.org. Register now on www.wearahatday.org and start planning your hattastic fundraising event. Your fundraising pack will be sent out in early 2018 and will include leaflets, posters, balloons, wristbands and badges to help promote your event and smash your fundraising target!

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Mummy on the Edge Angelina falls on way to Kegon Falls during her Japanese pilgrimage.

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had just visited a misty, hilltop shrine at the top of what felt like 5 thousand steps in Nikko, a world heritage site in Japan full of Shinto Shrines and Buddhist Temples.

While making my descent, I thought about all the times over the past fifteen years I had instructed Midi-Me to slow down and be careful (in between school mornings where I shouted, “Hurry UP!!”)

The ancient steps connecting the hill-top shrine were hewn out of stone, very steep and seemingly never ending. The last thing I wanted to happen merely 3 days into an epic once-in-a-lifetime trip, was to take a tumble down and break my face and body.

Especially as the following week we would be mixing with Mr A’s work people in Tokyo.

As an image of myself wearing a posh frock, scabby nose and chipped-toothed smile came to mind (“how LOVELY to meet you!”)

I shooed it away and trod carefully, steadily and slowly downwards, reaching the bottom triumphantly in one piece and without incident. Next stop that day was Kegon Falls.

You can guess what happened next. The clue’s in the name.

You see I think I’ve developed something of a habit. The only explanation I can come up with is that when I go on holiday without Midi-Me my subconscious feels so guilty for having a wonderful time without her that it helpfully gets my limbs to sabotage my body to make up for it. It’s all about balance, you see: Yin, yang; pleasure, pain. Or rather, lack of balance. Last year it was slipping in the bathtub resulting in broken ribs in Venice. Christmas was a back injury in India. This spring, bashed body achieved by falling flat on my face while running for a bus that was supposed to take me to see one of the top three most picturesque waterfalls in the region. One minute I was running in my bed-shoes aka my Skechers GoWalks.

The next I was lying prostrate on the pavement, in deference to the Shinto deities whom I must have deeply insulted in some way.

Before I blacked out. Then the ambulance turned up and I woke up and used all the powers gained during 13 years of Sing and Sign baby-signing teaching to convince the wonderful Japanese paramedics that I didn’t need the hospital. And thankfully I succeeded in order to hobble to Kegon Falls on the next bus.

K, my life-enhancing niece (everyone should have one) studying, hanging out, earning her Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award, and learning to cook.

K is “She Who Bakes” in our family (checkout @bakes.by.k on insta) and it is she who deserves much of the credit for Midi-Me’s growing kitchenthusiasm! When I stepped from the taxi into the house I was greeted by the nasal equivalent of a hug from the delicious aroma of a roast dinner. Upon her cousin K’s advice, Midi-Me had watched a YouTube video showing how to butterfly and roast a whole chicken! This she served up with roasted potatoes, a sautéed squash/ carrot medley AND home-made gravy.

I still needed the actual non-nasal hug with arms and this was supplemented by sympathetic oohs and aahs when I told her about my latest injury. And followed by hilarity when I told her I was running for the wrong bus…

If, like me, you are struggling to rationalise the many senseless events of the last couple of months to a five, 15 or 45 year old it might help to seek out the advice of Mr Rodgers: “Look for the helpers.” You can google the rest of the quote. It’s worth it.

Listen to Angelina’s popular chat show Dessert Island Discs on live on www.thepulsehr.uk Thursdays at 10am or catch up at www.mixcloud.com/angelina-melwani *facebook.com/angelinamelwani * twitter @appleina * mynotesfromtheedge.blogspot.com *Instagram @ mynotesfromtheedge

Japan was a trip of breathtaking experiences and sights which I will never forget. After two and a half weeks away, I had gained an understanding of another culture (-not to mention a few pounds of sushi and rice). But it is especially hard to be so far away from your kids and home when it feels like the world has gone mad and terrible things are happening in your country in your absence.

When the news broke about the awful goings on at the concert in Manchester I, like everyone else, was heartbroken and just wanted to squeeze my Midi-Me tightly.

Of course the self-sabotage was wildly over the top and completely unnecessary. I needn’t have worried about Midi-Me’s wellbeing while I was away. She was having a great old time with

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Families North West London 5

Education advertorial

Explore Learning helping children of all abilities succeed in secondary!

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eptember brings with it a new class or even a move to a different school for your child. For some, this is a very exciting time; at Explore Learning we hear our students chatting away about moving to ‘big school’ and planning trips to buy new uniforms and stationery. For others, you can see they are a little more anxious.

Even those that are very confident ask questions about what it will be like when they move schools. How will they be able to tackle the new, harder work? It’s important to talk to children about what they are excited about as well as what they are concerned about. Let them know that it is ok to be worried about change, but it’s also good to take on a new challenge and confront your fears by trying new things.

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

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writing CVs. It’s the perfect course to help your child to fearlessly take on the challenge of secondary school. Alongside this course we’ll help you navigate the process of selecting a new school. We’re confident you won’t be disappointed so why not book your free trial today?

Explore Learning’s secondary top tips!

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

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

Moving schools or class can result in your child missing their friends. Ask them questions about new people they have met to encourage them to make new friends.

Arrange to meet up with their old class mates outside of school so they can still see them.

It’s really important to remember that if don’t

get your first choice of school, you can find out about your options. Keep an open mind - and try not to show any concerns you have about a school to your child.

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

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

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Education

High performance for all

By Wendy Berliner

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

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

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

The truth is that with the right support at home, the vast majority of children could deliver performance at school more commonly associated with the gifted and talented. There’s room for a lot more at the top of the class.

In our new book Great Minds and How to Grow Them, Professor Deborah Eyre, a lifetime specialist in advanced learning, and myself, an education journalist who has taken a special interest in why some children from similar backgrounds do badly at school whilst others don’t, have looked at the research in detail and come up with guidance any parent can use at home, fitting it seamlessly and easily into normal daily life.

What follows are five top ideas you can use at home.

They come from Deborah’s High Performance Learning system which is being introduced in schools in the UK and abroad and is detailed for parents in Great Minds and How to Grow Them.

Great Minds and How to Grow Them by Wendy Berliner and Deborah Eyre.

For a 20% discount and free delivery of the book use webcode: GMGT230 on www.routledge.com Reader offer open till 31 December 2017.

How to create a high performing child 1. Cultivate confidence and resilience – if a child thinks they can, they keep trying. It’s the ones that think they can’t who fall behind – the ones who say ‘I’m rubbish at this’. Don’t sort everything out for them – and that includes tying their shoelaces as much as it does doing their homework. And model the behaviour – don’t give up too easily on things in your life.

Key words: How could you do this? Have you done anything similar before? What did you do then? ‘I know you can. I know it’s hard to do now but I know you can learn how to do this in time if you work at it.’

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

Keywords: ‘Why do you think. . . (bread goes mouldy, babies cry, leaves fall when autumn comes, people disagree about climate change?)’ ‘I wonder if that happened because of this?’

‘How could I find out the truth about that?’

3. Encourage them to monitor their progress – very important to the high performer is knowing how they are doing, knowing they are on track with their homework for example, knowing they need to put more effort into improving certain things.

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

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

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

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

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

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Families North West London 7

Education

Your school shoe fitting guide Measuring your child’s feet Because your child’s feet will continue to grow in fits and starts, it’s important to have them measured by a trained, professional shoe fitter in a shoe shop every eight weeks12 weeks (once per term). The fitter will measure your child’s feet from the tip of their longest toe to the back of their heel and across the widest part of the foot. From these measurements, the correct size and fitting of shoe can be determined.

What to look for when choosing school shoes

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hen it comes to buying school shoes for your children, the importance of making the right choice of footwear can’t be overstressed.

Poorly fitting shoes can cause painful problems, which your children could carry with them into later life. In fact, your child’s feet will continue to grow and develop until they reach their teens, so getting it right now is vital.

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There are many important things that you should look for when choosing school shoes for your kids. A firm heel cup is very important. The heel supports the foot and needs to be held in a straight position. If the heel leans to one side or the other, pain and postural problems could arise. Try pressing gently on the sides of the heel - if it sinks in easily, the shoe is not providing sufficient support.

The shoe should have a strap, Velcro or laces to prevent the shoe from slipping forward and scrunching your child’s toes. Ill-fitting shoes that crush the toes can lead to permanent problems like clawed or hammer toes. The shoe sole should be flexible at the ball of

the foot only and it should have sufficient cushioning so that the foot is supported comfortably when your little one runs or skips.

Shoe material should be breathable and water resistant. If your child’s feet sweat and can’t breathe, smelly feet and fungal infections can result.

Shoe styles to avoid • Rubber clogs don’t provide enough heel support • Ballet pumps and plimsolls are usually flat and flimsy so they don’t give enough support to the feet • Trainers are a much better choice for kids as they can provide plenty of support as well as being comfortable and breathable.

• Ugg boots or similar should only be used as slippers as they don’t provide enough support • Overly heavy shoes should be avoided as they can put too much strain on growing feet and can encourage clawing and clenching of the toes.

It’s really important that you choose wellfitting shoes for your kids, not just for their comfort now, but for their future foot health too.

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Education

Facing The 11+ Journey

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t’s probably not news to you, but if your Year 5 child is likely to sit any entrance exams for selective state schools, it’s time to think seriously about 11+ preparations.

As a first step, have your child academically assessed at this point. This will allow you to find out if they are capable of succeeding amidst the fierce and constantly increasing competition for 11+ places, and indeed whether they are likely to cope in a highly academic selective senior school.

To succeed, your child needs to be taught and practise both the 11+ curriculum and the exam techniques and strategies needed to optimise results. Standard primary school lessons will not provide adequate preparation.

One-to-one tutoring, tutor groups and holiday workshops can all dramatically boost a child’s knowledge and their confidence to face the exams, but unless they would be suited to a highly academic school, it makes no sense to push them into one.

Consider carefully whether the selective route is right for your child, then give them all the support they need.

JK Educate are experts in preparing children for the 11+ exams for state selective and independent schools and offer academic assessments for all children, including suitability for the 11+.

If you would like more information, contact JK Educate on 020 3488 0754 or via jkeducate.co.uk

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Education State School Open Days

Looking ahead…

Getting ready to choose a secondary school

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s a parent or carer, you want reassurance that your child will thrive, be inspired, challenged and love learning throughout their years in secondary school and selecting the right school fit for his/her is the best way to ensure this.

But how do you and your child know which school is the right ‘fit’ out of all the state and independent choices out there?

Make use of the number of Open Day/Evening events that schools host over the next couple of months, and/or make an appointment to visit if the school offers personal tours.

✓✓ You will get a more realistic impression from speaking to pupils, looking at displays of work, reading teacher’s comments and seeing lessons in progress ✓✓ As the pupils tour you around the school, they will tell you everything and answer your questions on good (and less good) aspects of the school, and talk to you about their future aspirations. Watch how the pupils engage with the staff and, if you can’t imagine your child at the school, then that is not the right one to nurture and educate your child. You know your own child well and your questions can focus on how the curriculum, extra-curricular activities and ethos will benefit him/her. ✓✓ Listen to the Head’s speech about their vision for the school and talk to the staff

✓✓ Do some research on the schools before you visit: inspection reports, league tables (use with caution), website and local knowledge Education is far more than academic achievement so it is important to look for evidence of all the other opportunities, clubs, activities and trips that will enrich your child’s educational experience and enable them to develop valuable life skills. And if you are considering schools where 11+ assessments are required, make sure you find out about application deadlines and processes well in advance - late applications are rarely considered.

“But how do you and your child know which school is the right ‘fit’ out of all the state and independent choices out there?”

Open Event listings for state schools in our local area Please check school websites to confirm in advance of visiting advertised open days.

Listings are subject to change. Independent school listings start on page 13 Schools in ‘HA’ Postcode Alperton Community School Wembley HA0 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.alperton.brent.sch.uk

Open Day: Wed 27 Sep. 020 8902 2038

Wembley High Technology College Wembley HA0 Boys and Girls 11-19 yrs www.whtc.co.uk

Open Day: TBC. 020 8385 4800

Harrow High School Harrow HA1 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.hhsweb.org

Open Day: TBC. office@hhsweb.org

The Jubilee Academy Harrow HA1 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.thejubileeacademy.org.uk

Open Morning: TBC. 0203 096 1221

Rooks Heath College Harrow HA2 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.rooksheath.harrow.sch.uk

Open Day: Tue 12 Sep. 020 8422 4675

Whitmore High School Harrow HA2 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.whitmore.harrow.sch.uk

Open Day: TBC. 020 8864 7688

Claremont High School Harrow HA3 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.claremont-high.org.uk

Open Day: TBC 020 8204 4442

Hatch End High School Harrow HA3 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.hatchend.harrow.sch.uk

Open Day: Tue 2 May, Tue 13 Jun – 9.15 & 10.15am. 01923 681103

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Education State School Open Days JFS Harrow HA3 Boys and Girls 11-19 yrs www.jfs.brent.sch.uk

Open Day: Tue 26 Sep, 4.15-8pm. 020 8206 3100

The Sacred Heart Language College Harrow HA3 Girls 11-16 yrs www.tshlc.harrow.sch.uk

Open Day: TBC. 020 8863 9922

Salvatorian Roman Catholic College Harrow HA3 Boys 11-18 yrs www.salvatoriancollege.com

Open Day: TBC. 020 8863 2706

Bishop Ramsey Church of England School Ruislip HA4 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.bishopramsey.hillingdon.sch.uk

Open Day: TBC. 01895 639227

Queensmead School Ruislip HA4 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.queensmeadschool.org.uk

Open Day: Wed 27 Sep, 5.30-8pm. 020 8845 6266

Ruislip High School Ruislip HA4 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.ruisliphigh.com

Open Day: Thu 5 Oct, 5-8pm. 01895 464064

Haydon School Pinner HA5 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.haydonschool.com

Open Day: Thu 21 Sep. 020 8429 0005

Nower Hill High School Pinner HA5 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.nowerhill.org.uk

Open Day: Tue 26 Sep, 9am & 1.30pm. 020 8863 0877

Northwood School Northwood HA6 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.northwoodschool.org.uk

Open Day: Mon 9 Oct, 5.30-8.30pm.01923 836363

Bentley Wood High School Stanmore HA7 Girls 11-18 yrs www.bentleywood.harrow.sch.uk

Open Day: Thu 14 Sep, 6.30-9pm; Fri 15 Sep, 10am-12pm; Sat 16 & Sat 23 Sep, 9am-12pm; Mon 18-Fri 22 Sep, 9am-12pm. 020 8954 3623

Park High School Stanmore HA7 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.parkhighstanmore.org.uk

Open Day: TBC 020 8952 2803

Canons High School Edgware HA8 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.canons.harrow.sch.uk

Open Day: Wed 27 Sep 5- 8pm; Mon 2 & Tue 3 Oct 9.1510.30am – (appt only). 020 8951 5780.

Ark Elvin Academy Wembley HA9 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.arkelvinacademy.org

Open Day: TBC. 020 8902 6362

Michaela Community School Wembley HA9 Boys and Girls 11-19 yrs www.mcsbrent.co.uk

Open Day: info@mcsbrent.co.uk

Schools in ‘NW’ Postcode The Crest Academy London NW2 Boys and Girls 11-19 yrs www.thecrestacademy.org

Open Day: TBC. 020 8452 4842

Hampstead School London NW2 Boys and Girls 11-19 yrs www.hampsteadschool.org.uk

Open Day: Tue 19 & Tue 26 Sep, Tue 3, Tue 10 & Tue 17 Oct, all 9am; Thu 21 Sep, 5.30pm. 020 7794 8133

Menorah High School for Girls London NW2 Girls 11-18 yrs www.menorahhigh.org

Open Day: TBC. 020 8208 0500

Whitefield School London NW2 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.whitefield.barnet.sch.uk

Open Day: Wed 27 Sep, 4.30-8pm. 0208 455 4114

Marylebone Boys’ School London NW6 Boys 11-18 yrs www.maryleboneschool.org

Open Day: Mon 2 Oct 9-11am; Thu 5 Oct 5.30-7.30pm; Wed 11 Oct 9-11am. admissions@maryleboneschool.org

St Augustine’s CofE High School London NW6 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.staugustineshigh.org

Open Day: TBC. 0207 328 3434

Kingsbury High School Kingsbury NW9 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.kingsburyhigh.org.uk

Open Day: TBC 020 8206 3000

St James’ Catholic High School Colindale NW9 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.st-james.barnet.sch.uk

Open Day: TBC. 020 8358 2800

Capital City Academy London NW10 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.capitalcityacademy.org

Open Day: Wed 27 Sep, Thu 12 Oct, Tue 17 Oct, all 9.15 - 11am; Wed 4 Oct 5.30 - 7.30pm. 020 8838 8700

Convent of Jesus and Mary Language College London NW10 Girls 11-18 yrs www.cjmlc.co.uk

Open Day: TBC. 020 8965 2986

Newham Catholic College London NW10 Boys and Girls 11-19 yrs www.ncc.brent.sch.uk

Open Day: TBC. 020 8965 2986

Northolt High School Northolt UB5 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.northolthigh.org.uk

Open Day: TBC. 020 8864 8544

William Perkin CofE High School Greenford UB6 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.williamperkin.org.uk

Open Day: TBC. 020 8832 8950

The Harefield Academy Uxbridge UB9 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.theharefieldacademy.org

Open Day: Mon 3 Oct, 10-11.30am. 01895 827961

Schools in ‘WD’ Postcode Rickmansworth School Rickmansworth WD3 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.rickmansworth.herts.sch.uk

Open Day: Thu 28 Sep, 5.30-9pm. 01923 773296 continued on page 12 v

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Families North West London 11

Education State School Open Days v continued from page 11 St Clement Danes School Rickmansworth WD3 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.stclementdanes.org.uk

Open Day: Sat 7 Oct. admissions@stclementdanes.herts.sch. uk

St Joan of Arc Catholic School Rickmansworth WD3 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.joa.herts.sch.uk

Open Day: Thu 5 Oct, 6-9pm; Fri 6 Oct, 9-11.30am. 01923 773881

The Reach Free School Watford WD18 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.reachfreeschool.co.uk

Open Day: TBC. 01923 224764

Watford Grammar School for Boys Watford WD18 Boys 11-18 yrs www.watfordboys.org

Open Day: Sat 30 Sep, 9am-12pm. 01923 208900

Watford Grammar School for Girls Watford WD18 Girls 11-18 yrs www.watfordgrammarschoolforgirls.org.uk

Open Day: Mon 9 Oct, 6-9pm. 01923 223403

Westfield Academy Watford WD18 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.westfield.herts.sch.uk

Open Day: TBC. 01923 231560

Bushey Meads School Bushey WD23 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.busheymeads.org.uk

Open Day: TBC. 020 8950 3000

The Bushey Academy Bushey WD23 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.thebusheyacademy.org

Open Day: TBC. 020 8950 9502

Queen’s School Bushey WD23 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.queens.herts.sch.uk

Open Day: TBC 01923 224465

The Watford UTC Watford WD24 Boys and Girls 14-19 yrs www.watfordutc.org

Open Day: Sat 16 Sep & Sat 18 Nov, 10am-12pm; Thu 12 Oct,4.30-6pm. 01923 905240

Francis Combe Academy Watford WD25 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.franciscombeacademy.org

Open Day: TBC. 01923 672964

Parmiter’s School Watford WD25 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.parmiters.herts.sch.uk

Open Day: Tue 3 Oct, 4-8.30pm. 01923 671424

St Michael’s Catholic High School Watford WD25 Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs www.stmichaelscatholichighschool.co.uk

Open Day: TBC. admissions@stmichaelscatholichighschool. co.uk

12 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk

Education Independent School Open Days Please check school websites to confirm in advance of visiting advertised open days.

Listings are subject to change.

Aldenham School Elstree WD6 Boys and Girls 3-18 yrs (Boarding/ Day) enquiries@aldenham.com

Open Day: Sat 7 Oct, 10am-12.30pm. Prep School 01923 851664. Senior School 01923 858122

Alpha Preparatory School Harrow HA1 Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs. www.alpha.harrow.sch.uk

Open Day: By appointment 0208 427 1471

Bales College Kensal Town W10 Boys and Girls 11+ www.balescollege.co.uk

Open Day: By appointment 020 8960 5899 to register

Buxlow Preparatory and Nursery School Wembley HA9 7QJ Boys and Girls 0 - 11yrs (Day) www.buxlowschool.org.uk

Open Morning: By appointment. 020 89043615

Buckingham College Preparatory School Pinner HA5 Boys School 4-11 years www.buckprep.org

Open Day: Wed 11 Oct, 9am-12pm. 020 8866 2737.

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School Elstree WD6 Boys 5-18 yrs. www.habsboys.org.uk

Open Day: Sat 7 Oct, 1-4pm (Prep & Sen Sch). Sat 4 Nov, 9.30am-1.30pm (Pre-Prep). 020 8266 1700

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Girls’ School Elstree WD6 Girls 4-18 yrs. www.habsgirls.org.uk

Open Day: Jun Sch Open Day: Sat 7 Oct, 10am-12.30pm; Sen Sch Open Day: Sat 7 Oct, 2-5pm. Jun Sch in Action: Tue 26 Sep; Wed 11 Oct; Tue 7 Nov, all 9.15am. Sen Sch in Action: Fri 29 Sep; Wed 4 Oct; Wed 8 Nov, all 9.30am. 020 8266 2302 email ldevine@habsgirls.org.uk

High Elms Manor School Watford WD25, Boys and Girls 6 months – 11 years. www.highelmsmanorschool.com

Open Day: By appointment. 01923 681103

The John Lyon School Harrow on the Hill HA2. Boys 11-18 yrs. www.johnlyon.org

Open Day: Sat 23 Sep, 9.30am-12.30pm. 020 8515 9400

Krishna Avanti Primary School Edgware HA8. Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs. www.avanti.org.uk/kapsharrow

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8381 3344

Mariposa Primary School (opening Sept 2018) Harrow HA1 Boys and Girls 4-11 yrs www.mariposaprimaryschool.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment. admissions@mariposaprimaryschool.org.uk

Merchant Taylor’s Prep Rickmansworth WD3 Boys 4-13. Northwood HA6 Boys 11-18yrs www.mtpn.org.uk www.mtsn.org.uk

Open Day: Prep: Fri 6 Oct, 9.45am-12pm (Y1-Y8) Sen Sch: Sat 23 Sep, 10am-12.30pm. 01923 825648 (Prep) 01923 845514 (Senior)

North London Collegiate School Edgware HA8 Girls 4-18yrs. www.nlcs.org.uk

Open Day: Jun Sch: Sat 23 Sep, 10am-12.30pm. Jun Sch 020 8952 1276, Sen Sch 020 8951 6481/6468.

Northwood College Northwood HA6. Girls 3-18 yrs. www.northwoodcollege.gdst.net

Open Day: Sat 7 Oct, 9.30am-1.30pm (Whole School); Tue 10 Oct, Fri 2 Feb, Wed 2 May, 9.30-11am (Early Yrs & Jun Sch); Wed 11 Oct, Fri 23 Feb, Thu 3 May, 9.30-11am (Sen Sch) 01923 825446.

Orley Farm Harrow-on-the-Hill HA1 Boys and Girls 4-13yr www.orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk

Open Day: Sat 7 Oct, 10am. 020 8869 7634/7600

Quainton Hall School Harrow, HA1. Boys 2.5-13yrs, Girls 2.5-11 yrs. www.quaintonhall.org.uk

Open Day: Sat 23 Sep, 10am-12.30pm. admin@quaintonhall. org.uk 020 8861 8861

Reddiford School Pinner HA5 Boys and Girls 2yrs 9months – 11 yrs. www.reddiford.co.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8866 0660

Roxeth Mead School HA2 Boys & Girls 3-7yrs. www.roxethmead.com

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8422 2092

The Royal Masonic School for Girls Rickmansworth WD3 – Ruspini House Pre School (boys and girls aged 2-4) Cadogan House Pre-Prep and Prep Department (girls aged 4-11), Senior School (girls aged 11-18)

Open Day: Sun 8 Oct, 2-5pm. 01923 725354

Saint Jérôme CofE Bilingual School Harrow HA1 Boys and Girls 4-11 yrs www.stjeromebilingual.org

Open Day: Tue 10 Oct, Thu 9 Nov, Tue 5 Dec, all 9.30-10.30am.

020 7932 1178

Stanborough School Watford WD25 Boys and Girls 4-18yrs.

Boarding/Day. www.spsch.org

Open Day: By appointment 01923 673268

St Christopher’s School, Wembley HA9 8HE Boys & Girls 4 – 11 years (day) admin@stchristophersschool.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment 020 8902 5069

St John’s CofE Primary School (opening Sept 2016) Watford WD17 Boys and Girls 4-11 yrs www.stjohnswatford.co.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 01923 255 017

St Helen’s School Northwood HA6. Girls, 3-18 yrs. www.sthelens. london

Open Day: Sat 23 Sep, 9am-1pm; Wed 1 & Thu 2 Nov, 9.30am12pm (whole sch) 01923 843230

St Hilda’s Preparatory School for Girls Bushey WD23 3-11yrs. www.sthildasbushey.co.uk

Open Day: Sat 7 Oct, 9.30am-12pm. 0208 950 1751

St John’s School Northwood HA6 Boys aged 3-13. www.st-johns.org.uk

Open Day: Wed 11 Oct, 9.15am. 020 8866 0067

St. Margaret’s School Bushey WD23 Girls 4-18 yrs (boarding/day) www.stmargaretsbushey.org.uk

Open Day: Sat 23 Sep, Thu 12 Oct, Fri 17 Nov, Tue 20 Feb, all 9.15-11.15am. 020 8901 0872

St. Martin’s School Northwood HA6. Boys 3-13 yrs www.stmartins.org.uk

Open Day: Fri 15 & Sat 16 Sep, both 10am-12pm. 01923 825 740

St Nicholas Prep School and Nursery, Kingsbury NW9 8PN 3mths – 11 yrs. www.stnicholasschool.org.uk; www.stnicholasnursery.org.uk

Open Day: Fri 29 Sep, Fri 27 Oct, both 9.30am-12pm. 020 8205 7153

York House Rickmansworth WD3. Boys and Girls 3-13 yrs www.york-house.com

Open Day: Thu 5 Oct, 9.30-11.30am (Nursery-yr 2); Sat 7 Oct, Sat 10 Mar, Sat 19 May, all 9.30am-12pm (Nursery-yr 8). 01923 772 395

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Families North West London 13

Education Making the transition to secondary school

How much to Help and How Much to Let Go

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arental anxiety is normal at the time your child moves from primary to secondary school. During the primary school years, it is fairly easy to support your child at school. You will probably know their teacher, other members of staff and parents, as well as being familiar with school policies and routines.

Losing the control this familiarity offers is as daunting for parents as it is for children and you may wonder how best to continue to support your child effectively.

Attending secondary school IS a big leap up for a child – the children are older and bigger and it is challenging for children to get used to moving from classroom to classroom for different specialist lessons in a building which is usually much larger than primary school. They will be treated by teachers and staff as much more independent individuals, expected to remember more complex school routines, and given less assistance managing them. There are also a lot of new names and faces to get to know.

Never fear though – your child may be much more prepared for this than you expect and your anxieties may be eased by adopting strategies that help with the transition.

Here are some tips and tools which should help you prepare for and manage the early months:

Before the transition: Shield your child from your anxiety. They can make this transition.

Critically, they need to know that you believe in them and in their ability to deal with difficulties and challenges.

If your child will walk to school or travel independently on public transport, practice the new journey Start by travelling together but without interaction. Then move to simply following behind your child.

Finally, let him do it alone and meet him there. Travel at busy times.

Allow your child to make mistakes and find solutions. This equips him with the skills to handle the unexpected, like bus detours and road closures.

After the transition: Be There. Make sure a parent or trusted carer is available before and after school, to provide food, notice if your child comes in late, listen to their successes and concerns and be aware of subtle changes in mood; someone to empathise and with whom to discuss problems. Watch and listen, help if asked but don’t take over. Become an Enabler rather than a Fixer.

Support the development of friendships. Mixing socially and establishing secure friendships is of great importance to older children and they need to do this whilst still young enough to turn to you for support when they make mistakes. It’s appropriate for this age group to have access to a basic mobile phone and computer to communicate with friends but the dangers of social networking should be discussed and boundaries agreed.

Support organisation and routines. Create “To Do” lists or “Timetables” for the fridge, agree places to keep bags, kit, and books.

Label uniform and valuables. Establish routines so they can get to school punctually. Don’t expect too much too soon, many won’t crack this for years!

Understand what homework they have and know when it has been completed and handed in. Agree a routine that will help your child to complete and hand in all homework on time, without devoting too much time to one piece and little or nothing to others. However, remember it is their homework not yours; help, encourage, motivate but accept their best.

Schedule time to relax. Your child will be exhausted by the effort of holding it all together. Tears are likely over the most trivial things and they may regress and demand more care. Trust that they can cope and make sure there is time for sleep, friends, homework, more sleep, watching TV, playing computer games and yet more sleep!

By Linda Stone

ROXETH MEAD SCHOOL ESTABLISHED 1859

Independent school for boys and girls between 3 years and 7+ ◆◆ Small classes ◆◆ Dedicated staff ◆◆ Excellent academic record ◆◆ Caring and supportive atmosphere ◆◆ Happy, considerate and confident children Vacancies sometimes available for 5 and 6 year olds.

Contact the Headteacher

Tel: 020 8422 2092 E-mail: info@roxethmead.com www.roxethmead.com Buckholt House, 25 Middle Road, Harrow HA2 0HW

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Education

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Families North West London 15

Local Clubs and Classes

A Parent’s Guide to Clubs and Classes

C

lubs and classes are a great way to continue your child’s development, as well as allow them to have fun, get exercise, socialise with others, and take part in activities they might not have the chance to at home. There are a huge range of different clubs and classes on offer, and while they may be better suited for some children better than others, all of them are designed to be fun and useful for developing vital skills for your children.

Here are just a few of the clubs and classes on offer, and some of the benefits they can bring. Take a look at the list to find out which ones are best suited for your little one.

Drama Drama is always hugely popular with children and really helps younger people release their creative thoughts and let their imagination run wild. Always fun and engaging, it’s also a great way to help children develop their own sense of self, confidence and self-esteem even shy children love taking part. It can also be a great way to develop an interest in other forms of art.

Girlguiding UK Joining a division of the Girlguides is a great way to get your child to experience the outdoors and engage and socialise with others. Studies have shown that scouting organisations help children with their mental health in later life, and with the huge range of activities on offer in Guiding, and great fun ways to learn, you’ll be sure to get your children off to a good start.

Scouting UK The Scouting is a great way to keep restless young minds and bodies active as they learn about and participate in a huge variety of different activities. As well as learning skills, it’s also a great way to get your child to exercise and work with others.

Music Music classes will help your child to develop their artistic talents by exploring how to create music and learning an instrument. As well as the joys of music, it’s also a great way to learn other related abilities - like patience, discipline, and social and physical skills.

Baby and Toddler Physical Sensory Classes Great for very young children, this class allows you to explore a multi-sensory environment with your child, with organised activities in place for you to enjoy as well as the freedom to explore. In the play area, your child can benefit from physical activity, learn to make friends with others, and have plenty of fun while doing so.

Martial arts Martial arts are a great way to help develop confidence in children, as well as learning values like discipline and patience. Teaching responsible self-defence helps to benefit children enormously, and it’s a great and fun way to get exercise too.

Whichever class you choose, all of the above have great benefits for all kinds of children.

As well as being open and beneficial, they’re all designed to be as fun as possible and to get children active and working with each other.

For more information about clubs and classes, check out the wealth of local listings in the following feature and find even more online @ www.familiesonline.co.uk

Paediatric First Aid Courses Sun 24 Sept, Sat 4 Nov, Sat 2 Dec - Harrow on the Hill

Suitable for Ofsted Registration.

Includes some home study.

Certificate valid for 3 years Cost = £85

Contact Margaret at mcstraining@hotmail.co.uk or on 07814 191 395 for bookings Other dates available

16 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk

Local Clubs and Classes PARTIES LEGO® Engineering Clubs, Parties And Workshops. E2 Young Engineers programmes inspire young people to be innovative critical thinkers and problem solvers by exploring aspects of engineering and science building working models using our custom made kits. Programmes available for ages 4 – 99! Build self-confidence, resilience and creativity through play! www.young-engineers.co.uk Central and West London:  07522 602 122  Info.westlondon@young-engineers.co.uk Hertfordshire & Middlesex:  07454 363 766 Shelina@young-engineers.co.uk  07565 195 895  Smita@young-engineers.co.uk Perform Parties - Based around a colourful theme, Perform’s energetic party leaders use a magical mix of songs, games and laughter to create fun-filled, action-packed parties. Call 0207 255 9120 or visit performparties.co.uk Silly Millie the Clown - parties for 3 - 9 year olds. Funny magic show, puppet’s, party games, silly songs & balloon animals. 020 7823 8329 or 07939 239 397 www.sillymillietheclown.co.uk The Windmill Studio Centre (HA4) Fun for kids, hassle-free for parents, birthday parties at The Windmill Studio Centre, Ruislip Manor, for 1-10 years boys & girls include invitations, party leader & assistant(s), freshly prepared food, decorations, music, lights, games, dancing, props and prizes. Optional extras - adult refreshments, face-painting and party bags. Lots of themes from Princesses and Super Heroes to Monsters, Trolls, Makers and Mad Hatters! Modern & clean venue.  01895 624755  thewindmillstudio@gmail.com www.thewindmillstudio.com

CLASSES FOR GROWN-UPS Adult Art Classes in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, painting and mixed media art classes for adults. Weekday morning studio sessions in a relaxed, supportive environment.  020 8954 2897 or 07500 006 099  myartclub@yahoo.co.uk Capital Connection Chorus - female A capella harmony (HA4) Calling women who love to sing! Particularly need lower range voices at present. Perfect way to meet new friends and sing with a great group of women. Every Wednesday night 7.45pm to 10.30pm at Ruislip Community Centre.  www.capitalconnection.org.uk Eggless Cake Delights (HA) offer eggless baking, cake decorating and dessert classes for kids & adults in Harrow. Classes are held in small groups in hands on and Demo format, during weekdays, weekends and during term holidays in a friendly environment.  07737847405 or info@egglesscakedelights.com.  www.egglesscakedelights.com The Veggie Kitchen (HA7) Pure vegetarian cookery courses in Stanmore. Specialising in Indian cuisines, as well as Thai, Chinese and many more, students learn to cook nutritious and delicious vegetarian meals in a friendly and homely environment. Group and one-to-one hands on courses.  0208 204 1906  www.veggiekitchen.co.uk Yogabellies Aquabellies (various) Beautiful water based yoga classes for women throughout their lives. The sessions incorporate

Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools

traditional yoga asanas (postures) adapted for water, water relaxations and positive life building experiences for women, mothers and mothers to be.

There are AquaBellies - Aquanatal yoga for pregnancy, AquaMamas, post natal and AquaBelles aqua yoga classes suitable for all women.

NEW YogaBelles: yoga designed for a unique women’s body.  07840 904887  anjli@yogabellies.co.uk www.yogabellies.co.uk/members/anjli

First Aid MCS Training (HA1, HA5) Paediatric First Aid Course. Accepted for full and voluntary Ofsted Registration. Certificate valid for 3 yrs.  Margaret 07814 191 395  mcstraining@hotmail.co.uk

LANGUAGES AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT Baby Lab (WC1E) Have fun for free with your baby making discoveries about brain development at the Centre for Brain & Cognitive Development. Birkbeck College, Malet St, London. Travel expenses refunded. 020 7631 6258  www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk Chinmaya UK (HA) Do you want your children to connect to their Indian culture through stories, games and celebration of festivals?

Go along to Bal Vihar classes to explore culture and values in an engaging, positive environment. Every Sunday in Harrow and Hendon for children aged 5-17.  bv@chinmayauk.org www. chinmayauk.org  07812 146428 Club Petit Pierrot (NW3/8/11) French Parent & Toddler group for 2-4 year olds in Hampstead at the JW3 Centre (NW3). Mon from

10.30am-11.15am and will be a multi-sensory session, totally in French, with many fun and varied activities including songs, rhymes, music, arts & crafts, dances and movement, language games, and puppets…all great fun! There will also be new fun French after-school classes on Weds for 4 to 6 yr olds and 6 to 8 yr olds in St Anthony’s School for Girls, Hampstead (NW11). Multi-sensory sessions with arts & crafts and music & movement also take place in St Mark’s Church Hall, St John’s Wood/Maida Vale (NW8) on Thurs, Fri and Sat.  020 7385 5565  admin@clubpetitpierrot.co.uk www. clubpetitpierrot.co.uk Gujarati Masti Maja classes by Sansaar (HA5) Fun and interactive Gujarati music, song and dance classes for 3 to 6 year olds in North London, to help your child speak Gujarati confidently. Saturday morning at 9am and 10am at St Lawrence Church in Eastcote, Pinner.  www.sansaar.org Little Stars Baby Club (HA9) A fun and friendly baby club where new mums with babies from birth to sitting can relax and meet new friends whilst babies play and explore with a range of lovely sensory toys. Every Friday 9:30-11:15am at Powell Suites @ Chalkhill Community Centre, The Welford Centre, 113 Chalkhill Road, Wembley Park HA9 9FX. £2.00  0208 385 1836  littlestarswembley@gmail.com Portuguese for Children (NW6) Every Saturday, from 10am to 12pm, the International Gospel Church on Belsize Road will be open for children from 4 to 12 years of Brazilian-English parents to enrol.

Lessons will include how to read and write and Brazilian culture, including music. Lessons run from September and February 2016 and are free.  contact@igclondon.org.uk

continued on page 18 v

Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford

call: 0208 123 9346 email: jodiesloan@littlekickers.co.uk

Harrow (HA3), North Wembley and Bushey call: 0208 422 0676 email: niro@littlekickers.co.uk

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Families North West London 17

Local Clubs and Classes Diddi Dance Harrow & North Hillingdon (various) At diddi dance we enhance children’s endless energy and enthusiasm through funky, full of fun sessions that build confidence, co-ordination and creativity. Classes in Pinner,Ruislip & Stanmore with new ones opening soon. To book a FREE TRIAL contact tejal.patel@ diddidance.com Mini Maniacs (Various) Multi award nominated classes that are filled with music, dance and exploration – plus plenty of excitement.

Focusing on a range of engaging activities, the classes take you up tempo then down tempo, leaving parent and child feeling like they’ve been on a tummy tickling roller coaster!  Contact hilda@ mini-maniacs.com or visit www.mini-maniacs.com

Monkey Music (Various) Award-winning Monkey Music introduces babies and young children to music in a way they understand and enjoy - and is brilliant fun for children and adults too! The unique four-stage curriculum, written by classically trained musicians, ensures that classes are a “good fit” for pre-schoolers. Parents across the UK have voted it as “Best National Toddler Development Activity” and “Best National Pre-school Development Activity”. Age guides are as follows: Rock’n’ Roll from 3m, Heigh Ho from 1yr, Jiggety Jig from 2rs, Ding Dong 3- 5yrs. Classes are open 6 days a week, at venues in Uxbridge, Eastcote, Northwood, Harrow and Stanmore.

Everyone Active

Sign Language Sing and Sign (Various) Fun classes combining the benefits of baby signing with music to develop language, memory and attention skills. Babies 6-30 months. Bushey, Rickmansworth, Stanmore and Harrow.  www.singandsign.com

ACTIVITY CENTRES Aspire National Training Centre, Kidz Zone activities (HA7) Wide range of activities available from 6mths to 12yrs.  020 8954 5759  kidzzone@aspire.org.uk. Wood Lane, Stanmore, HA7 4AP Gambado Watford (WD25) Giant play-frame, dodgems, climbing wall, and parties.  01923 892140  www.gambado.com JAMtots (HA4) An Interactive daytime activity centre for parents with babies and toddlers. All pay as you go with a variety of sessions that include Parent & Toddler Groups, Musical Tots, Gym Tots and one off events plus special visits from Jimmy the JAMtots Bear.  01895 624755  thewindmillstudio.com Rumble Tumble Harrow (HA1) Harrow’s only indoor supervised soft play children’s play group. Why not take advantage of the Drop & Shop facility and have a stress free shop, or book a special event in

020 8427 6595 www.monkeymusic.com the Party Room available for all occasions. You can even relax and have a snack in the restaurant while your little ones are playing.  0208 427 8847  info@rumble-tumble.com www.rumbletumble.com The Windmill Studio Centre (HA4) An exciting activity centre that has just about everything to offer for all ages from babies to adults.  01895 624755  www.thewindmillstudio.com

MUSIC & MOVEMENT Beat Building Vibrant & energising music classes using African drums and funky percussion. Great songs and games get the imagination glowing & introduce the concepts of beats, rhythmic patterns, time keeping & also encourage sharing, taking turns and listening. A wonderful introduction to music and rhythm, beat Building is brilliantly fun!  07721 623 171  info@beatbuilding. co.uk www.beatbuilding.co.uk www.facebook.com/beatbuilding Colourstrings (various) Music Kindergartens for babies, toddler, and children up to 6 years old with small, age-related classes. Classes are enjoyable and inspire learning, developing inner hearing and core music skills. New class starting in Hendon in Jan 2017.  020 8444 9435  www.nlcolourstrings.co.uk

SPORTS AND EXERCISE Better leisure centres (various) We exist to make community services and spaces better for everyone. That means providing access to quality community leisure and fitness facilities - and more - at a price everyone can afford. SAVE! £10 off a junior lesson or course booking before 31st October 2017  www.better.org.uk/ families Capoeira Academy UK (HA) Classes in Stanmore providing outstanding and fun classes for children aged 4+years. A unique blend of martial arts, dance, acrobatics and music; capoeira develops skills for life with inspiring and nurturing teachers.  07841342874  capoeiracademyuk@gmail.com www.capoeiracademyuk.com Enjoy-a-Ball classes (Various) Sports coaching for 3-9 yr olds in a fun, positive and non-competitive environment. Ten ball sports for the perfect introduction to sport. Physi-ball classes - Ball skills and core skills for toddlers aged 18mths to 3 yrs. Classes run in Mill HIll, Finchley, Golders Green and Muswell Hill. Call 08452 26 26 94 to book a trial session. Enjoy-a-Ball parties are for super-active 3 - 9 year olds. They are full of high energy games loved by boys and girls alike!  08452 26 26 94  www.enjoy-a-ball.com northlondon@enjoy-a-ball.com

18 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk

Local Clubs and Classes Everyone Active (various)

Why should your child learn to swim? Swimming is lots of fun for people of all ages and also provides loads of health benefits which can help to keep you and your children healthy and happy at the same time.

What’s more, swimming is the only sport which can save your child’s life. Drowning is still one of the most common causes of accidental death in children, so being able to swim is an essential life-saving skill.

To find out more about learning to swim at your local leisure centre visit www.everyoneactive.com.

Field End Flyers Saturday Morning Community Cycle Club (HA5) Saturday in Term Time, Field End Rd for ages 5–11 yrs. Join the friendly team of British Cycling Coaches at 9.45am, and learn fun skills, race on the amazing fully enclosed Cycle Track, make new friends and enjoy a whole morning of fun till 12.30 - (refreshment break half way through). All you need is your own bike, helmet, gloves and water bottle and a shower proof jacket.  Tracey fieldendflyers@gmail.com

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Harrow Junior Hockey Club (HA1) run sessions for children aged 4- 16 years on Sunday mornings and Tuesday evenings at The John Lyon School Playing Fields, Sudbury Hill, Harrow, Middlesex HA1 3NA. Everyone welcome please contact us for more information  harrowhcjuniors@outlook.com Little Kickers (Various) Enabling children aged 18mths up to their 7th birthday to develop their coordination, balance and agility through football activity classes Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet  020 8201 1084  jlevene@ littlekickers.co.uk. Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford  0208 123 9346  jodiesloan@littlekickers.co.uk or Harrow (HA3) Bushey and North Wembley  0208 422 0676  niro@littlekickers.co.uk www. littlekickers.co.uk Rugbytots - the UK’s first rugby based play programme for 2-7 year olds. Focusing on developing your child’s motor skills and confidence with fun-filled programmes aimed at improving general ball skills, balance, agility and coordination. Currently classes in Watford, Rickmansworth, Bushey and Stanmore.  For more information contact charlie@rugbytots.co.uk SportsKids Academy (WD3 & HA3) Multi-sports Activities for children.

All students are taught in small groups of similar age and ability. Mini academy ages 4-6 years (an hour and a half) Main Academy 6-16 years (3 hours). (Previously known as SportsCoach.) Held at JFS The Mall Kenton and Rickmansworth Masonic School Rickmansworth  01923255099  sportskids@outlook.com www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk White Crane Karate School (HA8) Karate classes for ages 4 years and above held in Edgware, East Finchley, Finchley Central , Stanmore and Harrow Weald. Adult classes in Barnet.  Sheena 0787 550 1674  whitecraneedgware34@hotmail.co.uk www.karatewhitecrane.co.uk Y Active (HA2) New Harrow classes booking now for children and adults at the YMCA. A beautiful studio with free parking and a play garden. Baby, Ballet, Gym, Soft Play and Classes from £4.40.  020 8832 1576  yactive@ymcawestlondon.org www. ymcawestlondon.org

Massage & Yoga Positiv-Life Fitness (various) Specialise in Small group Personal training Pregnancy Pilates, Mum & Baby Yoga & Postnatal Pilates, Baby Massage & Fitness for Mums for those in & near Eastcote, Ruislip, Harrow, Pinner, Northwood, Uxbridge, & Maida Vale West London. info@positivlifefitness.com  07974 062 973  www.positivlifefitness.com www.facebook.com/positivlifefitness > Twitter @PositivLifeFit YogaBugs (various) A magical, fun and interactive story-style adventures for children where they learn yoga techniques. Yoga improves flexibility, posture and concentration and also helps in relaxation. Fun and engaging classes for children from walking to 12 years of age.  Contact details: 08458997168. deepti@yogabugs. com. www.yogabugs.com YogaBelliesKidz Family yoga (HA & WD) Share the mental and physical benefits of yoga...peace of mind, relaxation and increases body strength and flexibility!

YogaBellies Mum and Baby yoga: Monday afternoons (birth to 10 months) YogaBellies Little Angels pre-school yoga (18 months to 4 years): Sat mornings, Bushey YogaBelliesKidz family yoga (children 4-12 years): Sat & Sun mornings, Bushey NEW: YogaBelles Mum and Daughter (13-16 years): Weekday evening, Bushey  07840 904887  anjli@yogabellies.co.uk; www.yogabellies. co.uk/members/anjli

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Local Clubs and Classes v continued from page 19

Swimmimg Aqua Style (WD23/HA6) teaches children, babies and adults to swim without aids in small groups, or One to One. Good facilities and plenty of parking. They run Intensive ‘Fast Track’ Courses during School Holidays and weekly ‘Term Time’ courses.  www.aquaswim.org  07925954144.

Aqua Vie Swimming based on effortless swimming and true water confidence. Fun classes for babies & Children from 6wks+ to all ages including Adults. New Tues, Wed & Sunday morning classes in Bushey WD23. Tel 01923 245 772 www.aqua-vie.com or email office@ aqua-vie.com Aweswim (various) Aweswim offers courses for people of all ages and abilities, ranging from parent and baby groups through to adults.  www.aweswim.co.uk  01923 537070 Push & Glide Swimming School (WD18, WD23, HA6) Push & Glide Swimming School provide extremely high standards of swimming instruction, they pride themselves on their friendly, dynamic teaching environment. They provide fully qualified instructors who are committed to maintaining and improving an excellent quality of teaching along with low ratio swimming lessons in a safe environment for children aged 3.5 years plus. All abilities are catered for, from gaining water confidence through to competition training, following the ASA progressive scheme awards.  07749554405  www.pushandglide.co.uk Splashtime Swim School (various) Swimming lessons, Holiday clubs and After school club held at Quainton Hall School. Swimming lessons also held at Merchant Taylors School and Uxendon Manor Primary School.  Splashtime Swim School  07903126486 Children’s Activities 07794078452

THEATRE AND PERFORMING ARTS Beverley School of Performing Arts (HA8) After school & Saturday classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Street, Singing & Drama for boys and girls aged 3-18years. ISTD and LAMDA examinations to advanced level.  07974 750 224  www.beverleydance.co.uk.

JAM2000 Performing Arts and Agency (HA4) is an explosive and dynamic performing arts school where students learn to perform in dance and drama and enjoy amazing opportunities to appear in spectacular shows and special events including TV and film. Classes for boys and girls from 2.5 years to adults are taught by word-class instructors in an air conditioned, mirrored dance studio complete with sprung floor amid the clean and modern surroundings of The Windmill Studio Centre 106 - 106A Pembroke Road, Ruislip Manor, Middlesex, HA4 8NW. Classes include Urban Jazz Fusion - an exciting fusion of dance styles including Hip Hop, Street, Jazz and Musical Theatre; Tap dancing and drama - acting for stage, TV & film.

To book a trial session call on 01895 624755 or email thewindmillstudio@gmail.com Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools (Various) A new school year is here, which means that children across London and the Home Counties are taking to the stage as Jigsaw begins an exciting new term of drama, singing and dance classes; the perfect activity to escape the cold, wet October weekends.Performing arts classes are an excellent way to build confidence and social skills and are lots of fun. For more information or to book a two-week trial, visit www.jigsaw-arts. co.uk or call 020 8447 4530.

Italia Conti Ruislip (HA5) Performing Arts School for students 2yrs to adult, at Haydon School in Eastcote. ISTD Ballet, Tap and Modern, Street dance, Break Dance, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Singing, LAMDA, acting, Gymnastics, Lyrical and much more! Shows twice a year at Harrow Arts Centre. Call or email for a Free Trial  20 8838 8747 info@italiacontiruislip.co.uk www.italiacontiruislip.co.uk Nichola Rees Youth Academy – NYRA (WD) An acting and performing arts academy based in Watford, for young people aged 4-18 years.

Weekly workshops on Thursdays and Saturdays, and an annual performance.  07702 965 851  nichola@nrya.co.uk www.nrya.co.uk

Perform (various) weekly drama, dance and singing classes.

Perform is a unique children’s drama school that has a special emphasis on child development. Perform uses a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s full potential.

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

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

Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions for newcomers.

Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class today.

Saturday 2nd September - Sunday 17th December 2017 Venues in NW London and Hillingdon Contact: T: 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk/try Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts (HA1, HA4, HA7, WD3) Performance based theatre school with venues based in Harrow, Rickmansworth, Ruislip and Stanmore where children aged 3-21 attend weekly classes in preparation for full scale Musical Theatre productions.  01923 437693  www.SharpeAcademy.co.uk

The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance • Ballet classes for boys & girls aged 3-18 • Outstanding Royal Academy of Dance examinations results • Established 14 years in Stanmore •

• •

www.activetime.co.uk

Successful places at Royal Ballet School, Tring Park, Central School of Ballet, London Senior/Junior Ballet, London Studio Centre, Ballet West Numerous cups/medallists – British Federation of Festivals Contemporary/Jazz classes

Classes are held in the Stanmore and and Bushey Area Suzanne Van Niekerk (RAD Qualified Teacher)

T: 020 8950 2457 www.vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk “Develop poise, technique and expression through dance”

20 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk

Local Clubs and Classes

Stagecoach (Various) Training in three disciplines: drama, dance and singing. Great for building confidence, making new friends and beginning to hone talent and enthusiasm for performing, or being coaxed out of their shell by having fun!  Harrow 020 3504 0100 Harrow on the Hill & Sudbury Hill 01923 248 294 Stanmore & Harrow Weald 020 3504 2154 Watford 01727 768 738 Queen’s Park 020 7723 5861 Northwood 01442 263 599  www.stagecoach.co.uk Wordworks Studio (HA5) Individual and group classes in Speech, Drama and Communication Skills for children 3-18yrs.  wordworksstudio@ymail.com

Dance Futunity UK Academy of Sport and Dance (UB8) Purpose built facility in Uxbridge City Centre. Classes for children ages 2 all the way through to adults. Hip Hop, Street Dance, Gymnastics, Free Running, Breakdancing, Ballet (RAD), Tap (ISTD), Contemporary, Cheerleading, Pole Fitness, and Children’s Parties. Classes range from beginners to advanced/competitive levels. Three fully equipped studios available for hire, at very competitive rates. Futunity UK also supply dance (all genres) and gymnastics teachers into schools to run after/ before school extra curricular sessions, and PE and PPA cover lessons. 01895 251224  admin@futunityuk.com www.futunityuk.com Instep School of Ballet (HA/WD) Trains students of all ages and abilities in ballet, tap, pointe and performance. The school offers examinations with the Royal Academy of Dance (ballet) and the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance (tap), and all teachers are fully qualified and registered with the RAD and ISTD. They produce a summer show each year. Classes in Harrow, North Harrow and Bushey.  07814 793 772  instepschoolofballet@yahoo.co.uk www.instepschoolofballet.co.uk Karan’s Bollywood Masterclass (Various) Learn a fusion of Bollywood, Bhangra, Hip-Hop and Salsa at our weekly classes. Open to Toddlers, Children & Adults the courses are Fun, Motivating and KBM offers many performance opportunities. All dance levels welcome. Contact our friendly team for your class registration.  0208 423 9543/07944 457 984  www.kspark.co.uk

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Lorna Clark School of Dance (Various) Established for over 40 years, training students from 3-18 yrs - Ballet, Tap, Modern, Classical Greek and National. Royal Academy of Dance Examinations are taken in Ballet from Primary to Advanced Level and ISTD exams in all other Genre to the same standard. All classes held in South Harrow/ Eastcote. Book a free No Obligation Lesson with this advert.  0208 8662105 or 01923 285380.  www.lornaclarkschoolofdance.co.uk RISE Studios (WD) Dance and Performing Arts Schools in Watford and Rickmansworth. Classes in ballet, modern, tap, street dance, hip-hop, drama, singing, LAMDA and Performing Arts.  01923 218626  www.rise-studios.com The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance (HA7) Ballet classes to develop poise, technique and expression through dance, for boys and girls aged 3-16 years with Royal Academy of Dance examinations  020 8950 2457  www vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk

ARTS AND CRAFTS Art Classes for Kids (and Adults) in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, painting and mixed media art classes for children and adults.

On-going, small groups Monday–Thursday afternoons and Saturday mornings in Term Time for children from Year 1 up. Weekday morning studio sessions for adults in a relaxed, supportive environment.  020 8954 2897 or 07500 006 099  myartclub@yahoo.co.uk Art and Craft Club (HA5) Term time, Mon 4.30-5.30, Sat 10-11am or 11-12pm at Harrow Arts Centre. New activities introduced every term; drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, sewing, fabric printing and much more! For 5-11yr olds. Materials provided. Qualified teachers.  07946 055 422  info@mysistersandme.co.uk continued on page 22 v

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Local Clubs and Classes Stitch Club (HA5) Stitch and Sketch Club for children and teens. Start with simple hand sewing then developing sewing machine and design techniques to design and create your own items. Saturday Sketch Club develops looking and drawing skills and confidence. Also parties and one-off workshops. Adults’ weekly Dressmaking sessions and occaisional Beginners workshops. W: stitch.club E: sam@stitch.club The Veggie Kitchen (HA7) offers pure vegetarian cookery courses in Stanmore. Specialising in Indian cuisines, as well as Thai, Chinese and many more, students will learn to cook nutritious and delicious vegetarian meals in a friendly and homely environment. Offer group and one-to-one hands on courses.  0208 204 1906  www.veggiekitchen.co.uk

AFTER SCHOOL CLUB/EDUCATION SUPPORT 1Point4Teacher (HA) Do you have a child in KS1 and KS2? Would you like to improve on their end of year report? Does your child need more of a challenge?

Then give 1Point4Teacher a try today. Lessons from a qualified primary school teacher, with a class ratio of 1 adult to 4 children. We offer English tuition on Mondays and Tuesdays, covering reading comprehension and SPAG (spellings, punctuation and grammar) with math lessons taking place on a Wednesday. We are located in Harrow, 5 minutes from Kenton Library.

For further information visit www.1Point4Teacher.co.uk or email the Head Tutor Mrs Edwin on info@1point4teacher.co.uk v continued from page 21 Artzania Art and Craft Activity Club (HA) A new and exciting Arts and Crafts activity club for children ages 1-11 yrs open during term time and holidays. They offer and Mother Toddler Group art club (aged 1-4 yrs) and an After-school/ Holiday Club (ages 5-11yrs) Contact to book your place:  Keshma 07419343105  keshma. artzania@gmail.com

Brownies and Guides (Various) Rainbow, Brownie and Guide Units exist across the area which provide fun activities for girls aged from 5 onwards.  www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested or  Peggy Brand 020 8205 7597 Champs Learning (HA1) A very structured tuition course for English, Maths, Science and 11+ exams. Courses run at Harrow College.  020 3004 9007 www.champslearning.co.uk

BLANK CANVAS ART CLUB (HA4) Do your kids love Art? Then welcome to the club - my classes are full of them!

Join these fun classes where I teach art techniques to 5+, 7+ and 11-18 year olds.

Weekly term time classes & holiday workshops, with public or small group private options available in Ruislip Manor & Eastcote. With special member’s benefits, sibling discounts & special events there’s never been a better time to book.

Book now & let them develop a love of Art that will last a lifetime!

Contact Suzi (E) blankcanvasartclub@gmail.com, (M) 07773 819 603 www.Facebook.com/BlankCanvasArtClub Luchi and Ota (HA8) Sewing classes and course for kids and adults. Also hold one-off drop-in sessions and sewing and craft parties.  020 8958 7714  hello@luchiandota.com www.luchiandota.com Messmakers! (HA5) A gentle and fun introduction to creative arts for the very young and their families, with lots of mess and none of the tidying up! Exploring different materials and textures each week. Ages under 5, come dressed for mess!  0208 416 8989  www.harrowarts.com/family

22 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk

Local Clubs and Classes Click IT! Computer lessons for Children (HA2) Fun, exciting and educational weekly computer lessons for children aged 2-5. Classes held at nursery schools all over North West London. Have fun learning with technology: mouse and keyboard skills and devices including graphic tablets, trackpads and digital microscopes. Every lesson is designed to complement the EYFS curriculum. Free trials available.  020 8434 7111.  www.clickit-kids.co.uk. wendy@clickit-kids.co.uk.

DiscoG Coding Boot Camp (various) Weekly Coding Programme teaches Primary and Secondary School children the basics of coding. Using the Python Programming Language and the Raspberry Pi 3 your child will create fun and engaging gadgets that spring to life with lights and sensors, and prototyping devices that will ‘amaze and inspire’. Tailored courses written to support the National Curriculum for GCSE and A Levels. Adult courses are also available.  Gerard on 07767 300940  info@discogcodingacademy.com www.discogcodingacademy.com Elisa’s Tutorial School (HA8) Experienced private tutor in Edgware. Programmes for children from 2.5-16 yrs. If your child needs a little extra help, in English maths verbal and non-verbal 4+ 7+ and 11+ preparing for entrance exams or you just want to give them every advantage, Elisa can help. 99% success rate.  020 8958 1192 07956868119  www.childrensstories.net www.kidslearnfast.co.uk Excel Academy (HA3) Experienced tuition in preparation for SATs, 11+, 13+, GCSEs, AS & A2 levels. Small group sizes, all aspects of the National Curriculum covered.  www.excelacademy.org.uk Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Visit their website to find your nearest centre or call to book a free trial class!  www.explorelearning.co.uk.

Field End Flyers Saturday Morning Community Cycle Club (HA5) Every Saturday in Term Time adjacent to Field End Junior School, Field End Road, Eastcote, Middx HA4, for all children aged 5 – 11 years. Join the friendly team of British Cycling Coaches at 9.15am prompt, and learn fun skills, race on the amazing fully enclosed Cycle Track, make new friends (for both children and parents) and enjoy a whole morning of fun till 11.30 - (refreshment break half way through). All you need is your own bike, helmet, gloves and water bottle and a shower proof jacket.  Contact Tracey at fieldendflyers@gmail.com First Class Learning (Various) Structured yet flexible programme, designed for children studying the UK National Curriculum. Tailored to a child’s learning needs & style. Find out more about this structured approach to learning, by contacting one of your local Centre managers.  www.firstclasslearning.co.uk Fleet Tutors (Various) Professional one to one tutoring. Fleet Tutors has been matching the right tutor to the education needs of students across the UK since 1977. Tutors are subject specialists who tailor the teaching and learning experience to relieve any subject specific anxieties and help build your child’s confidence so they achieve a successful outcome.  0333 920 2545. www.fleet-tutors.co.uk The Harrow Woodcraft Folk (HA) Elfin group for children, 6 to 9 year olds are reopening their group after the Summer holidays on Tuesday 6th September in Central Harrow. Parents wishing to join their children should contact the District Secretary; John Woolf:  020 8428 2409 or  e-mail: harrow@woodcraft.org. uk For more information regarding Harrow Woodcraft Folk visit their web site: www.harrowwoodcraftfolk. btck.co.uk/HowtoJoin

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High Fliers (HA4 & WD7) 11+ tuition for Independent and Grammar school entrance. Run by highly experienced and qualified prep school teachers offering a unique and tailored tutoring service.  07949 297070/07534 020868  info@high-fliers.org.uk www.high-fliers.org.uk Holidaytime After school club is part of Activetime Children’s Activities limited (HA1) Pick’s up from four local school’s at the end of the school day, then take the children back to the club for a snack and the daily activity. They are open Monday- Friday 3pm-6pm  Nicole 07794078452  holidays@activetime.co.uk www.activetime.co.uk

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Local Clubs and Classes (free parking on site) Visit the website or call  07478 878672 to book a FREE TRIAL  www.mastermindtuition.com mastermindtuition@aol.co.uk Math’scool Award-winning Maths Tuition plus out-of-lesson homework support.  0333 12 33 445  www.mathscool.com The Northwood Speech and Language Therapy Practice (HA6) An independent service covering a range of children’s communication difficulties.  01923 824 074  www.northwoodpractice.co.uk Number Works ‘n’ Words (Eastcote) After school Maths and English tuition classes which target identified needs to improve achievement levels. They set goals for your child, monitor progress and provide regular progress reports. Cater for all levels from Reception to Year 11.  www.numberworksnwords.co.uk Pinner Tuition Centre (Pinner) After school and Sat tuition for Reception to Year 11 by fully qualified teachers. Tuition in Maths, Reading, Spelling, Writing, SATS, 11+ and GCSE. FREE ASSESSMENT. Ofsted Registered.  www.pinnertuitioncentre.co.uk The Play Shelter After School Club at Malorees Infant & Junior Schools (NW6) - 3.30pm to 6pm term time. Play schemes available out of term-time.  0207 407 6744.  admin@theplayshelter.co.uk www. theplayshelter.co.uk The Rainbow Club (various) Specialise in preparing for 3+, 4+ and 5+ entrance exams. 07850 045 471  Sonya.Thiru@gmail.com Raviv Practice London (UB5) Catch up reading course for children on the SEN register. Reading courses are flexible with home based learning (via computer) monitored daily.  Usha Patel on 07766 837 616  info@ravivpracticelondon.co.uk (registered therapist) v continued from page 23 Integratedbrain - Improve Co-ordination for learning! (UB5) Activities to help those with poor co-ordination, dyspraxia, dyslexia or fine motor difficulties. Small groups of 4/5 children working to develop better all-round motor integration.  Usha Patel 07766 837 616  ushapatel.raviv@gmail.com www.integratedbrain.co.uk JKEducate Educational Consultancy and Tutoring (various) Tutoring, Assessments, Consultancy for children 5-18yrs. 7+, 11+, GCSE, A Levels, SEN, EFL.  020 3488 0754  www.jkeducate.co.uk Knowledge Above Standard (HA7) Maths, English, Verbal and nonverbal reasoning, 7+, 11+ 13+ exam preparation.  07985 588 085  www.knowledgeabovestandard.co.uk Kumon (various) Unique maths and English study programmes which support children by building and developing a solid foundation in their literacy and/or numeracy skills.  www.kumon.co.uk Leaders are Readers (HA5 & N21) Offer specialist experience and accelerated learning in their award winning Saturday School, and

also run popular Summer and Winter Schools during holidays. 2 hours spent per subject, including English, Maths, Learning to Read and Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. All programmes are for ages 3.5 to 11 and the success rate is 90% for helping pupils prepare to sit entrance exams, including 4+, 5+, 7+ and 11+. Childcare vouchers accepted.  01992 651 300  www.leadersarereaders.co.uk Little Big Leaders Ltd (HA7) 2 courses for the price of 1 in Maths and English or Maths and Reading. Lessons take place on a Saturday at, Edgware, Rickmansworth or Bushey call now 020 3637 6266  www.littlebigleaders.com.

The London Tutors (Various) Specialises in providing 11 Plus classroom based learning, to yr 4 and 5 students. Prepare students to sit exams for Grammar and private schools.  For a call back email your name and number to info@thelondontutors.co.uk Mastermind Tuition (HA) Specialise in 11+, Maths, English, Verbal & Non-verbal reasoning (including CEM-style) and Grammar & Independent school preparation. Classes in Harrow & Northwood

Simple Studies (NW4) Offer expert English and Maths tuition for 4-16 year olds at their cosy centre in Hendon. They specialise in 11+ entrance exams. Quote ‘Familiesmagazine’ and get 10% off your first lesson!  07793 498195  www.simplestudies.co.uk Susan Daughtrey Education (SDE) SW Herts courses are based on more than 25 years experience preparing students for 11+ tests.

All courses have been personally written by Susan Daughtrey M.Ed, author of the market leading verbal reasoning Technique and Practice series. Every year since 1987, over 90 per cent. of the students on the courses have achieved success.  020 7683 0734  www.sdeuk.org/swherts Stanmore Tutor Stanmore Tutor prepares students thoroughly for the top selective schools ensuring that they reach their maximum potential for that all important place.  020 3538 2437 Type IT! - Touch Typing Lessons for Children (HA2) Learn to touch type! Weekly lessons and intensive holiday courses for children from age 8-18. Highly recommended for children with dyslexia. Classes are held at their office in Harrow on the Hill, HA2 0JT. Free trials available. Adult classes also available.  020 8434 7111.  www.typeitforkids.co.uk. wendy@typeitforkids.co.uk.

Find even more local listings and activities online

www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk SportsKids - Multi-Sports Academy

Sports Activities for 4 to 16 year olds

Tel: 01923 255099 E: SportsKids@outlook.com Sportscoach are celebrating 10 years by expanding and rebranding to

SportsKids Academy

American Football - Dodgeball - Handball - Basketball Tag Rugby - Softball - Gaelic Football - Rounders - Athletics Kwik Cricket - Gymnastics - Tennis - Climbing Wall - Fencing Lacrosse - Netball - Volleyball - Archery - Martial Arts - Kin Ball Football - Badminton - Tri Golf - Uni-Hoc We are located in Harrow and Rickmansworth

www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk 24 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk

Local Clubs and Classes

SPEECH & LANGUAGE THERAPIST An independent service covering a range of Children’s communication difficulties.

Contact THE NORTHWOOD PRACTICE MRCSLT, HPC

Call 01923 824074

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Families North West London 25

What’s On

What’s On

listings for all the family Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

To promote your local event, coffee morning, nearly new sale, parenting courses or community group in the next What’s On listing (October 2017) send your entry by 10 Sept 2017 Email Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk. Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check details of the events before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.

www.FamiliesOnline for all our local weekly regular events. It’s updated every day!

Big Fish Little Fish

September Fri 1 – Sun 24 Sep - Potato Shindig (AL4) This year, visitors to Willows Activity Farm can turn their picked potatoes into artistic prints! The Willows Potato Patch is open to all: with spades at the ready, little ones can dig up and harvest their very own Picasso potatoes. Every child gets to take a bag-full of potatoes home to try out some delicious Willows recipes. Children of all ages can also get creative at Willows with the aptly named Picasso spuds, as they create their own messy masterpiece using potato prints.

0870 129 9718 www.willowsactivityfarm.com

Sat 9 Sep - Lots for Tots Sale Watford (WD25) An indoor table top sale for people that want to sell their secondhand baby, toddler and children’s items, and those that want to buy them. Visitors can browse each sellers table and pick out exactly what they need, paying the seller direct. At Francis Combe Academy from 10-11.45am. info@lotsfortotssale.co.uk www.lotsfortotssale.co.uk Sat 9 Sep - Introduction to Embroidery (WD17) Your chance to try hand embroidery or ask all those embroidery related questions you always wanted to ask and try. Suitable for adults or families, digital sewing & embroidery machine will be

Sat 9 Sep - Dino Snores for Kids (SW7) See what really happens at the Natural History Museum once the doors have closed and the lights are out. Explore the corridors as night descends, join a torch-lit trail in the Dinosaurs gallery, watch an amazing live show by the scientists and snuggle down at midnight among some of nature’s greatest characters. The next morning, there’s just time for one more activity before the doors open to the public and it’s business as usual. www.nhm.ac.uk Sat 9 Sep - Sun 26 Nov - Visualising “The Water-Babies” (HA5) The Autumn 2017 Special Exhibition at the Heath Robinson Museum focuses on illustrations created for the classic Victorian novel “The Water-Babies”. Written by the Reverend Charles Kingsley for his son, this extraordinary fable first appeared as a monthly serial in Macmillan’s Magazine between 1862-3 before being published as an illustrated book in 1863. William Heath Robinson provided the beautiful illustrations for the 1915 edition. The collection includes 45 illustrations for “The Water-Babies” including two very fine water-colours. These will be exhibited together with examples of the best work by other illustrators inspired by Kingsley’s book. www.heathrobinsonmuseum.org

Tue 5 - Sat 9 Sep - Movie Nights (NW1) As the sun sets at ZSL London Zoo this September it’s movie time. For ages 18+ only the gates are opening for five nights of adventure films. Start off the evening with a twilight tour to find out what the animals get up to in the afterglow before taking a trip back in time to the Mesozoic Era to meet some very old friends in the zoo’s newest exhibit. Once safely returned to the 21st Century, grab food, drink and a sweet spot beneath the stars and settle down to enjoy your adventure. www.zsl.org Sat 9th Sep - Pinner Village Show (HA5) The show is family friendly and allows local charities and good causes to promote themselves to the local community. There will be various types of entertainment including a children’s fair ground that has a bouncy castle, miniature railway and lots of other activities to keep youngsters of all ages happy! At Memorial Park in Pinner from 11.30am-5pm. www.rotary-ribi.org Sat 9 Sep – Big Sports Day (WD18) Go along to The Parade in Watford between 11am & 5pm for a fun filled day of free sports, fitness and general health based activities to try out and experience. www.watfordbigevents.co.uk

available. At Watford Central Library CreatorSpace from 10am-1pm.

Drop in with donation.

0300 123 4049 www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/libraries

Sun 10 Sep - Heritage Open Day (WD18) Go along to Cassiobury Park to find out about the archaeology and history of the Swiss Cottage that used to be in the grounds. See a display of finds by the archaeologists and join in craft activities in the Hub and maybe go on a guided walk with local expert Laurie Elvin. A free drop in event - no need to book, 1-3pm.

01923 727072 cassiobury@watford.gov.uk

Willows Farm

Sun 10 Sep - Harefield Hospital Fun Run & Family Day (UB9) Dust off your trainers and get ready for an action-packed day at the 36th annual Harefield Charity Fun Run & Family Day at Harefield Hospital. Run, jog or walk the 5km course,

26 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On

Science Uncovered 2017 - Natural History Museum

or there is also a shorter 2km fun run for children and families to get involved in. After the fun run, join in the family fun day packed with entertainment for both young and old. Soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the pop-up arts and craft stalls, vintage cars and food carts. There will be face painting, tug of war, a bouncy castle and inflatables for the children. www.rbhcharity.org Sun 10 Sep - An Afternoon with Michael Morpurgo (WD3) Join Chorleywood Bookshop for an afternoon with bestselling children’s author Michael Morpurgo and receive a signed copy of his new book ‘Toto’, a perfect, collectible gift for all children (and children at heart). St Clement Danes School in Chorleywood at 3pm. www.chilternbookshops.co.uk Sun 10 Sep - Klezmer in the Park (NW1) Go along to the bandstand in Regents Park for the JMI’s annual Klezmer extravaganza! There’ll be arts and crafts, music and kosher food!

For ages 2+. www.jw3.org.uk Sun 10th Sep - Family Workshop: Family Photographs (NW1) Drop in parent/carer and child photography workshops at the Jewish Museum. Learn how to compose and capture natural portraits of your child in a fun popup photo studio. This session is run by professional photographer Madeleine Waller. Suitable for ages 0-5 years. Advanced booking essential.

020 7284 7384 admin@jewishmuseum.org.uk www. jewishmuseum.org.uk Fri 15 Sep - Battle of Britain at Night (NW7) Go to the RAF Museum for a fantastic evening of vintage fun. Treat your ears to the vintage sound of Tricity Vogue and the All Girl Swing Band and why not pick up a few swing moves and get your feet tapping with Swing Patrol. Peer inside the iconic aircraft including the Spitfire Mk.1 and hear the stories of the pilots who flew them.

The evening will be packed with activities! Ages 18+. www.rafmuseum.org.uk Sat 16 Sep - Bubble Rush Harrow (HA3) Get together with friends, family and colleagues to support St Luke’s Hospice in their very first Bubble Rush at Kenton Recreation Ground.

Four Bubble Stations will be positioned around the course and as you pass through each station you’ll be immersed in a rainbow of colourful frothy bubbly fun! This family friendly event is open to all ages and abilities and is suitable for groups, individuals and keen runners alike. www.stlukes-hospice.org

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Sat 16 Sep - London Viva! Vegan Festival (HA9) Everything you ever wanted to know about going, being or staying vegan will be available at the London Viva! Vegan Festival.

This festival is organised by vegan charity Viva! and entry is just £5 (under 16s free). A whole range of delicious food tastings and all the advice you could ever want on changing your diet or improving your health is available for no additional cost. This festival is a celebration of the vegan lifestyle and the delicious food it can offer.

At The Drum At Wembley, Brent Civic Centre, from 11am-6pm. www.viva.org.uk/wembley Sat 16 Sep - The Nutkins Walk About and Balloon Modelling (UB8) Ready for some autumnal fun?

Look out for Mr & Mrs Squirrel Nutkins in the Intu Shopping Centre at the Chimes. They will be helping to launch Hillingdon’s CultureBite festival and there will also be some fun balloon modelling. www.intu.co.uk/uxbridge Sat 16 Sep - Mystery of The Golden Teapot (UB8) Wave goodbye to the Summer Reading Challenge and hello to Culture Bite at Professor Biblio Indexia’s special birthday tea party! The professor’s prize golden teapot has gone missing! Can you help solve the mystery at this interactive, family-friendly event?

At Uxbridge Library and Learning Centre from 6.30-8pm. culturebite@hillingdon.gov.uk

amazing things The Strings Club offer, to try out new instruments and to inspire your child’s love of music, all for free! Children can try their hand at a range of different instruments and take part in two free 20-minute lessons of their choice before ending with a grand concert. www.thestringsclub.org/hampstead Sat 16 – Sun 17 Sep - Manor Farm’s Open History Weekend (HA4) Enjoy free access to buildings across the Manor Farm site, as part of the Open House London weekend. Bringing more of the site’s history to life, this year’s weekend will also feature: A Norman Settlement on the Motte with Living History Tent, Archery and Combat Demonstrations; Historical Dance Performances and Workshops covering dance from Medieval to Tudor times; Children’s Activities with crafts and storytelling events; The Hillingdon Autumn Fruit and Vegetable Show in the Great Barn; A Pop-Up Cinema showing historic film footage of the area. This is a free event - just turn up on the day! www.hillingdontheatres.uk

Sat 16 Sep - Swim Safe at the Serpentine (W2) Swim Safe offers free outdoor swimming and water safety sessions for children aged 7-14. During the hour-long session, children learn how to stay safe when swimming outdoors, which is often more challenging than swimming in a pool. Children must be able to swim 25m unaided. Swim Safe sessions are run by qualified swimming teachers and lifeguards, supported by a team of trained volunteers. www. swimsafe.org.uk Sat 16 Sep - Cloud 9 Festival (NW1) This year’s Cloud 9 Festival will have a heritage theme - celebrating 40 years of arts, architecture and community life in Euston and King’s Cross.

Interactive art installations will invite festival visitors to share stories about where they live and play games; free arts and crafts workshops will run throughout the event and are suitable for families and children of all ages; there will also be a performance stage which will include dance and music from local community groups and local organisations will provide a range of interactive stalls. From 11am-4pm at Cumberland Market. www.facebook.com/Cloud9Camden Sat 16 Sep - Discovery Day (NW3) The Strings Club’s very special, award-winning Discovery Days in Hampstead provide an opportunity for you and your child to see and hear the

Visualising The Water Babies

continued on page 28 v

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What’s On v continued from page 27 Sat 16 – Sun 17 Sep - Open House (SW3) Discover how the new National Army Museum was designed and built at this weekend of talks and tours as part of the Open House London festival of architecture. These include Designing the new National Army Museum, Installing the new National Army Museum, Architect tours and Build your own museum. www.nam.ac.uk Sun 17 Sep - Watford Colosseum Family Fun Open Day (WD18) Watford Colosseum are throwing open their doors and inviting you to explore behind the scenes.

With backstage tours; sound, lighting & pyrotechnic displays; children’s arts & crafts activities, including biscuit decorating; a rare opportunity to listen to the Compton Organ being performed live; competitions and a whole host of other activities taking place throughout the afternoon, there’s guaranteed to be something for everyone. The Family Fun Day is free, but pre-booking is advisable.

12 - 4pm. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk Sun 17 Sep - Summer Fun in Roxbourne Park (HA5) Following the success of last year’s event, Friends of Roxbourne Park are holding another Summer Fun Day and Fun Dog Show near the pavilion on Cannon Lane. There will be a funfair, stalls, fun dog show, races, music, and lots to do and see. www.forp2016.org Sun 17 Sep – Bat Walk at Rickmansworth Aquadrome (WD3) A free guided walk with Park Rangers to discover these magical creatures of the night in their natural habitat. Booking required.

01923 776611 leisure@threerivers.gov.uk Sun 17 Sep - ZSL London Zoo Stampede (NW1) The popular Stampede 10k is back for 2017, and whether you’re looking for a new challenge or want to add something different to your Sunday morning run, this provides you with the perfect opportunity to walk, run or jog, as well as visit your favourite animals as a post workout reward. The registration fee includes entry into the Zoo after the event has taken place, a commemorative medal for all finishers and a friendly team to support you along the way. www.zsl.org Sun 17 Sep - Silk River Storytelling aboard Cutty Sark (SE10) Silk River explores the unique relationship between London and Kolkata (Calcutta) through an artistic exchange project joining communities along the Thames Estuary with those

by India’s Hooghly River. A week of performative walks will take place across the River Thames, with Greenwich hosting the walkers on 17th September. Go aboard the Cutty Sark as they pass the ship with their beautiful parade of banners and join the storyteller to find out how Greenwich and the ship inspired some of the artistic designs. 10.30am to view the banners and 11.30am, 12.30pm and 1.30pm for the storytelling. www.rmg.co.uk Sun 17 Sep - Behind the Scenes Tour (E2) This tour will provide a behind the scenes look at the V&A Museum of Childhood with Archivist Gary Haines. Visitors will see some of the museum highlights and learn about its history within East London, followed by a rare look at the Stores. Booking recommended. Free, Ages 10+. www.vam.ac.uk/moc

Fun Palaces at artsdepot

Sat 23 Sep - Push it for the Peace 2017 (WD18) Back at Cassiobury Park, Watford with a choice of a 5k or 10k route, this year’s event will see loads of brand new obstacles.

On the route you’ll have to take on the obstacles in four distinct zones: The Inflatable Zone, The Foam Zone, The Water Zone and The Military Zone (1Ok route only). Each will be jam packed with loads of great obstacles - some will be fun, some will be hard, some will get you muddy and some will get you very, very wet! Yes it’s going to be a challenge but it’s also going to be great fun with the usual team spirit and camaraderie. www.peacehospicecare.org.uk Sat 23 Sep - Doctor Who Extravaganza! (UB8) A special, family-friendly, interactive, sci-fi super event taking place between 6.30pm and 9pm in the Uxbridge Library. There will be Doctor Who authors, Doctor Who crafts, Doctor Who talks, and Doctor Who books. www.hillingdon.gov.uk Sat 23 Sep - Poetry Remix (NW1) Experiment with word-play in this workshop inspired by the British Library’s Sound Archive. Explore shape, pattern and type to create your own poetry, and then have fun playing with different ways of performing and recording your work. Drop in between 10.30am & 12pm, suitable for ages 5 – 11. www.bl.uk Sat 23 - Sun 24 Sep - Meet the Working Heavy Horses at Chiltern Open Air Museum (HP8) A must for all horse lovers! The resident heavy horses Joshua, Samuel and Harvey will be joined by members of the Hertfordshire Heavy Horse Association and their horses to demonstrate the role of heavy horses on traditional farms in the past. www.coam.org.uk

Sat 23 – Sun 24 Sep - Fenton House and Garden: Apple Weekend 2017 (NW3) Go along for the annual celebration of all things apple in Fenton’s beguiling walled gardens and 300-year-old orchard. Taste old English varieties of apples and juice from the trees. Sit back and relax with a beverage or two, from delicious fresh juices and teas, to cider and cocktails. There will be all the usual favourites, including local produce, hot food, cake stalls, and the kids’ activities like badge making, apple juicing and giant lawn games. Booking Not Needed. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fenton-house-and-garden Sat 23 – Sun 24 Sep - Treasures from the Thames (E14) Go along to this free family-friendly weekend of workshops, crafts and performances celebrating the River Thames at the Museum of London Docklands. Featuring ‘Liquid History’ a performance by Gestalt Arts exploring the story of London through five objects found on its shores, as well as river-themed performances devised by local young people. For ages: 5+ www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-london-docklands Sun 24 Sep - Feel Good Look Good in aid of Michael Sobell Hospice (WD3) Book yourself in for a spot of pampering and ‘me’ time, with a range of complementary therapies and beauty treatments available to buy on the day from fully qualified therapists. Light refreshments will be available and there’ll be stalls selling lots of goodies. So, why not plan a leisurely mother and daughter Sunday, or even a father and son day?

10am-5pm at the Lecture Hall at Michael Sobell Hospice, free entry (pay for treatments only). www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk Sun 24 Sep - Big Fish Little Fish: Family Rave (WD18) Award winning, bonkers family fun with Big Fish Little Fish family rave at Watford Colosseum! World class DJs on the decks playing classic club tracks with bubbles, glow sticks, glitter, crafts, play, club visuals, giant balloons, legendary parachute dance, licensed bar and so much more! Go and join the fun at this “Pirate” themed event - fancy dress encouraged. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk Sun 24 Sep - Grow your Own: Watford (WD18) Meet in the community project garden in Cassiobury Park (near the Cha Cafe) from 2-3pm. Take along something made from your own produce to share, and learn about composting and what to do in the garden in autumn. There will also be time to ask any general gardening questions. Grow your Own - Watford is a community based project to encourage people to grow organic or semi organic in their back garden or in pots in their apartments. Free, but you need to book your place. cassiobury@watford.gov.uk or call 01923 727072

ZSL Stampede

Wed 27 Sep – Sat 7 Oct - St Albans Food & Drink Festival 2017 (AL1) Enjoy fun, food and festival feasting on St Peter’s Street where there will be a Chefs Theatre and the Pop Up Village Green. A wide variety of top quality ingredients will be showcased from cheese to fruit and meat products to ice cream. All produce is from local and regional suppliers, meaning great quality and fair trade. The perfect way to spend time as a family and with friends! www.facebook.com/StAlbansFoodandDrinkFestival

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What’s On

Silk River Storytelling 4 © National Maritime Museum

Wed 27 Sep - Sat 21 Oct - Elton John’s Glasses Community Open Day (WD17) Go along to this community open day in conjunction with the autumn production Elton John’s Glasses at Watford Palace Theatre. The day will feature back stage tours and a display of objects from Watford in 1984 including items from the FA cup final. They are also actively collecting for Watford Museum and University of Hertfordshire Heritage Hub and interested in objects, photos, clothing and memorabilia which tells us what happened in Watford 1984. Take your objects to either be digitally recorded or potentially donated to the museum collection. Admission is free! www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk Fri 29 Sep - Science Uncovered 2017 (SW7) Dive into the ocean with the scientists at the Natural History Museum, and discover how marine researchers see the sea. Part of European Researchers’ Night, this annual festival of science is free and offers you the chance to chat to scientists and uncover cutting-edge research. See hundreds of behind-the-scenes specimens and take part in talks, tours and special events linked to marine science.

Everything is free to attend, but spaces will be limited for some activities. Tickets for special activities will be available on the night on a first-come, first-served basis. www.nhm.ac.uk Sat 30 Sep – September Fayre (WD24) Go to Christ Church on St Albans Road from 11am to 3pm and get a head start on the Christmas shopping. Entry is free on the day. Refreshments available. All proceeds will be used to support the families outreach project, Lift Off! www.liftoff.org.uk Sat 30 Sep - Songs from the Wizard of Oz and more! (UB8) KLOS Musical Theatre will perform songs from their forthcoming show between 11-11.45am at Uxbridge Library. culturebite@hillingdon.gov.uk to book Sat 30 Sep – Sun 1 Oct - Wild about Wool (HP8) Have a go at different types of traditional knitting at

Chiltern Open Air museum. Discover wool and textile-related activities with expert volunteers, solve your knitting conundrums, and see a variety of knitting, crocheting, making pompom animals and wet felting. Suitable for all ages and levels, from beginners to experienced knitters! www.coam.org.uk

October Sun 1 Oct - Animated Romans (EC2Y) Explore Roman London in a very modern way at this free digital animation workshop at the Museum of London. Gladiators, imposing armies, luxurious baths and straight roads… what comes to mind when you think of the Romans? Discover what daily life was like in the city 2000 years ago at this interactive animation workshop in the Roman London gallery. This is a drop-in workshop, so stop by anytime between 12.30-1.30pm, 2-3pm, 3.30-4.30pm. Minimum age 7+. www.museumoflondon.org.uk Fri 6 Oct - Jail & Bail in aid of Michael Sobell Hospice (WD3) Join ‘Jail & Bail’, a once-in-a-lifetime experience, in partnership with Ruislip Police Station and get locked up to help raise vital funds for the Hospice in its 40th year during Hospice Care Week. Upstanding members of the community will be: arrested & handcuffed, taken away in a police van, finger printed, DNA tested and locked in a police cell. The only way to be let out of jail is to raise £500 in sponsorship money for the charity.

Participants will be allowed mobile phones in the police cell for those last-ditch calls to friends and family for extra funds!

020 3826 2362 ochambershenry@michaelsobellhospice.co.uk www. michaelsobellhospice.co.uk

Sat 7 Oct – Northwood Craft Market (HA6) There will be many beautiful crafts for sale, all handmade by local craftspeople, as well as hands-on crafts for children, a plant Stall, teas, coffees and delicious homemade cakes. At the Methodist Church Hall in Northwood from 10am-2pm. www.northwoodcraftmarket.co.uk Sat 7 Oct - Fun Palaces at artsdepot (N12) The annual, free, worldwide celebration of arts, science and culture returns for its fourth year. artsdepot will join 150+ Fun Palaces expected to pop up across the UK and globally in arts centres, swimming pools, theatres, universities, back gardens, castles, libraries, woodlands and more - and you’re invited. 11am-3pm. www.artsdepot.co.uk Sun 8 Oct - Michael Sobell Hospice 40th Anniversary Walk (WD3) Walk and help raise vital funds for the hospice during Hospice Care Week and in its very special 40th Anniversary year. Join in a 3 or 12 mile walk which will take you through the beautiful countryside around Moor Park, Harefield, Rickmansworth and The Grand Union Canal. Dogs and children welcome too! Registration at 8.15am Walk starts at 9am, starts and ends at Michael Sobell Hospice. www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk

Sat 7 Oct - Lots for Tots Sale Rickmansworth (WD3) An indoor table top sale for people that want to sell their second-hand baby, toddler and children’s items, and those that want to buy them. Visitors can browse each sellers table and pick out exactly what they need, paying the seller direct. The sale takes place at Rickmansworth School from 10-11.30am. www.lotsfortotssale.co.uk

For many more local events and diary dates for the whole family visit

www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Families North West London 29

What’s On Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

What’s On in Children’s Theatre

We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check before setting out.

Don’t Dribble On The Dragon

Artsdepot 5 Nether Street, North Finchley, N12 020 8369 5454 www.artsdepot.co.uk

Sun 17 Sep - Three Billy Goats Gruff & Other Furry Tails The Storyteller is on the run from those three-headed monsters, trying to bring you the most fantastic tales from the Magic Land of Three. Are you really sure what happened to the wolf and those three little pigs?

What about Goldilocks? Why was she walking in those woods?

And as for the three Billy Goats Gruff, how did they really deal with that troll? All will be revealed in this beautiful show using puppets and props. It’s full of fun and laughter and has an exciting gypsy soundtrack that you won’t be able to stop singing long after the show has finished. Ages 3+

Sun 24 Sep - Your Toys This show is made by your toys. Grownups and children alike, bring your own toy to the theatre to join in this gigantic adventure. Slot Machine Theatre bring your real toys to life on stage using their unique style of puppetry, original live music and quirky humour. A monstrous force rules the land. Only the bravest can defeat it. But the challenge is perilous - will everyone survive? On this epic journey, we’re all in danger, and only the toys can save us your toys.Ages 5-9 yrs

Cadogan Hall 5 Sloane Terrace, London SW1X 020 7730 4500 www.cadoganhall.com

Sat 23 Sep - Southbank Sinfonia Family Concert If you were creating a piece of music for an

orchestra, where might you start? Perhaps a lightning bolt of sound to grab everyone’s attention… or an upbeat dance that gets your toes tapping… or a beautiful tune that gets stuck in the listener’s head? The options are endless, but with Poulenc’s action-packed Sinfonietta, Southbank Sinfonia’s musicians will help you explore some of the tools used to make brilliant music. In the concert, specially-made videos provide an up-close insight to the music being played. Afterwards, you can ask the musicians all your questions and try out an array of instruments. Ages 5 – 11 yrs

Chickenshed Chase Side Southgate N14.

020 8292 9222 www.chickenshed.org.uk

Fri 8 Sep – Fri 20 Oct - Planet Play: Autumn 2017 Welcome to Planet Play our magical world of sensory learning, wonder and exploration, for babies and toddlers aged 0-3 years. These 45 minute sessions will encourage young children to develop and explore the world around them through song, music, movement and a truly sensory experience. So go along every Friday morning for musical fun and games, learn lots of new songs, play with puppets, dance and enjoy time with your little one. Every Friday at 10am.

Fri 8 Sep – Sat 28 Oct - Tales from the Shed Tales from the Shed are vibrant, interactive theatre shows that are perfect for young children. They are informal, lively and amazingly engaging as the performers and audience share the same space - children are always encouraged to make a lot of noise and to make the story happen. Every week will be different stories featuring the same much loved characters – from Can-Can the beautiful bird to laid back Lion Down and The Thing That Goes Blurgh! Shows on Fridays, Saturdays and Tue 24, Wed 25, Thu 26 & Fri 27 Oct. Ages 0-6yrs

Little Angel Theatre 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross St, N1 020 7226 1787 www.littleangeltheatre.com

Sat 2 Sep – Sun 5 Nov - Wow! Said The Owl Explore the wonderful world of colours with a curious little owl, who is determined to stay awake and see what daylight brings. From the warm, pink glow of dawn through to a day filled with the bright colours of green leaves, blue sky, white clouds and, finally, a stunning rainbow – ‘WOW!’ But

30 Families North West London familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On despite the beauty of the daytime world, the little owl decides that the night-time stars are the most beautiful of all. WOW! Said the Owl is brought to life through a blend of beautiful storytelling, puppetry and music and will delight and excite very young audiences. Ages 2 – 5 yrs Sat 16 – Sun 17 Sep - Me… The world is a very big place, especially for a tiny baby penguin who is just finding his feet. The shimmering stars and glistening snow spin around our little hero, while the mountains tower high and the wind rushes to and fro. And although baby penguin may be small his family know he’s the biggest thing of all. This early year’s favourite is a lovely and touching story about a parent and their love for their child by much loved children’s author Emma Dodd. Ages 2-5 years Thu 21 Sep – Sat 4 Nov - Zeraffa Giraffa Across the plains of Africa where grass grows tall and acacias taste sweet. A young giraffe is sent as a gift from the Pasha of Egypt to the King of France, but Paris is very far away… With a boy called Atir to help Zeraffa find her way, the pair sail up the Nile past pyramids, sphinxes and temples and out across the stormy sea to a country where everything is different. No one has seen an animal like Zeraffa before. Can Zeraffa and Atir find a way to make this new place home? Based on the book by award-winning children’s author Dianne Hofmeyr, Zeraffa Giraffa is inspired by the astonishing true tale of a real giraffe and is told using beautiful hand-made puppets and an original musical score. Ages 4-8 yrs Fri 22 – Sun 24 Sep - Rusty Nails and Other Heroes An award-winning cross-over between theatre, visual art and animation. A wordless poetic performance in which worthless finds, picked up from street corners and rescued from the gutter change into actors. Two performers slide old cardboard under a camera and on a large screen a desert appears. A rusty saw plays the sea. Maple seeds become gentle birds and old working gloves an endless swamp.

Omnipresent is the enchanting soundtrack that pulls the viewer into the story. It’s a charger for your imagination; so don’t forget to take it with you! Sat 23rd & Sun 24th for ages 6-12 yrs; Fri 22nd, Sat 23rd & Sun 24th for ages 10-adult Wed 27 Sep – Sun 1 Oct - Bookstory Book Story. It’s a story, about some books. In a library. But these are no ordinary books and this is no ordinary library. It’s Brian’s library: a wonderful, magical place where the books like to flutter their pages and let their shelves go… Then one day Brian changes and the library goes…quiet. What’s going on?

The books had better stiffen their spines: to get to the bottom of this mystery they may have to check themselves out… In this celebration of books, reading and libraries, the pioneers of the puppet musical MONSTRO Theatre and their band talented performers use songs, puppetry and dynamic performance to tell the story of the story in the digital age. Ages 6 – adult.

Lyric Theatre Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 7ES 0844 482 9674 www.nimaxtheatres.com

Until Sun 10 Sep - What the Ladybird Heard Two crafty robbers, one tiny ladybird, and a whole farmyard of fun! Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len have a cunning plan to steal the farmer’s fine prize cow. But they reckon without the tiniest, quietest creature of all: The Ladybird has a plan of her own!

Join the woolly sheep, the hairy hog, the fat red hen and the dainty dog in this glittering stage adaptation of Julia Donaldson & Lydia Monks’ colourful farmyard adventure. With live music, puppetry, plenty of audience participation and lots of laughs!

Puppet Theatre Barge Little Venice W9 (During the summer the Barge is at Richmond, TW10) 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com

Until Sun 1 Oct – The Hare and the Tortoise and Other Tales from Aesop Aesop’s Fables is an exciting collection of tales, all told with wood-carved marionettes, culminating in the evergreen classic The Hare and the Tortoise. Other stories feature storms to be weathered, ferocious lions to be overcome, and a group of daredevil mice who plot to hoodwink the cat. As ever with Aesop, there are always a few morals to take away.Ages 3+

familiesonline.co.uk

The Radlett Centre

Unicorn Theatre

1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk

147 Tooley Street, SE1.

020 7645 0560 www.unicorntheatre.com

Fri 8 Sep - Showstopper! The Improvised Musical Spontaneous musical comedy at its finest - direct from the West End! With ten years as an Edinburgh Fringe must-see phenomenon, a BBC Radio 4 series, a critically acclaimed West End run and now an Olivier Award to their name, The Showstoppers have delighted audiences across the globe with their ingenious blend of comedy, musical theatre and spontaneity. So whether you fancy Sondheim on a ski lift or Cole Porter in Poundland - you suggest it and the Showstoppers will sing it!

Sun 24 Sep – Sun 12 Nov - Laika Laika, the space dog: the first living creature to orbit earth. That was in 1957. Today it’s 2057, and Sami lives with his mum. She’s an astronaut and she understands that there could be a better future out in space. But Sami’s life is down here. So now they must face the prospect of letting go, saying goodbye and – just like Laika – head off into the unknown. A moving sci-fi adventure, inventively and beautifully told using puppetry, movement and music. Ages 6-12 yrs

Sat 9 Sep - Don’t Dribble On The Dragon Tom is a toddler with a cool older brother, a secret dragon… and a dribbling problem that just won’t stop! When Tom’s endless drooling threatens to tear the brothers’ friendship apart can their dragon’s amazing magic help them put it back together again or will it only end up making things worse?

Based on the fabulous new book by Steven Lee and with magic designed by the legendary Paul Daniels, this spectacular musical adventure about growing up and the importance of family is the perfect feel good show for big hearted adults and loving little ones alike.

Clarendon Road, Watford WD17 01923 225 671 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk

Sat 23 Sep - The Sooty Show Izzy wizzy let’s get busy! Sooty is back in a brand-new show with guaranteed giggles for the whole family! Direct from CITV, Sooty, Sweep and Soo head into town accompanied by TV’s Richard Cadell.

Mr Slater has put Richard in charge of running the show but nothing is going to plan! Sooty’s magic tricks turn very messy and Sweep’s escapology act has him all tied up. Maybe Soo and her tap dancing will save the day? Expect magic, music and mayhem with buckets full of audience participation. A spectacular treat for Sooty fans old and new - plus a chance to meet Sooty and Richard after the show! Ages 3+

Watford Palace Theatre Sat 16 – Sun 17 Sep - Stick Man Touching, funny and utterly original, Scamp Theatre’s delightful adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s STICK MAN is coming back to Watford Palace Theatre! What starts off as a morning jog becomes quite the misadventure for Stick Man: a dog wants to play fetch with him, a swan builds a nest with him, and he even ends up on a fire! How will Stick Man ever get back to the family tree? This award-winning production, from the teams behind Tiddler and other Terrific Tales and The Scarecrows’ Wedding, features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves. Ages 3

Winston Churchill Theatre Pinn Way Ruislip HA4 01895 250615 www.hillingdontheatres.uk

Wed 20 – Sat 23 Sep - Hillingdon Musical Society presents Oklahoma! Hillingdon Musical Society are proud to present the original Rogers and Hammerstein musical Oklahoma! Based on a play by Lynn Riggs called Green Grow the Lilacs, which was written back in 1931, Oklahoma! is full to the brim with memorable songs including; Oh What A Beautiful Mornin’!, I Cain’t Say No and People Will Say We’re In Love.

For many more local events and diary dates for the whole family visit

www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk Families North West London 31