IN THIS ISSUE
What to do with the Kids this Summer!
Issue 122 July/August 2018
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2 Families North West London
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IN THIS ISSUE:
Welcome to the July/August issue!
5 Starting Secondary 8 Camps/Activites/Childcare
CONTACT US:
16 Parenting
www.facebook.com/FamiliesNWLondon
18 Days out
22 Diary Dates
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 Listings and Features Editor: Anna Blackshaw E: Listings@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk
www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk
@FamiliesNWLon Readership of over 60,000 local parents, carers and teachers every issue. Published seven times a year. For families from birth to twelve.
26 Rainy Day Ideas
28 Theatre
30 Clubs and Classes
UPCOMING ISSUES: September 2018 - ‘Local Club, Classes and Activities and Back-to-School’ Deadline: 10th August 2018
Cover image: depositphotos.com
October 2018 - ‘Education and Schools’ Deadline: 10th September 2018 Send in your news, stories and advertising bookings to the details left.
Where is Families North West London? 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.
NEWS Local children to take part in Guinness World Record challenge to celebrate 3 decades of success! Stagecoach Performing Arts Stanmore & Harrow Weald will participate to set a new Guinness World Record for the largest simultaneous performance of one show. Celebrating Stagecoach’s 30year anniversary, students from Stagecoach Stanmore & Harrow Weald will join up with schools nationwide and abroad (including Germany, Canada and Malta) to stage Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Junior. Performing simultaneously at 6pm BST on 1st July 2018, Stagecoach aims to have 200 of its schools taking part, the world record attempt commemorating three decades of its schools sparking children’s creativity through singing, dancing and acting classes. Upwards of 6,500 children will be involved. Principal of Stagecoach Stanmore & Harrow Weald, Jayne Hardy said, “Our students aged from as young as 2 years old up to the eldest at 16 are going to come together for the first time in the history of the long running local performing arts school to achieve something together, and potentially break a World Record!” For more information about Stagecoach Stanmore & Harrow Weald, please visit their website at www.stagecoach.co.uk/stanmore or call 020 3504 2154/ 07803 053 184
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Feature images used under license from depositphotos.com. Other images have been supplied by independent sources.
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 NW 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 Families North West London Magazine, its distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.
SportsKids Academy
celebrates 16 years serving the local community with a fantastic 25% discount offer! SportsKids offers multi-sport activities for children aged 4-16 years in Harrow and Rickmansworth. Their range of sports includes American football, handball, softball, tennis, gymnastics, archery and fencing just to name a few! To thanks the local community for their loyalty and support they are offering 25% off your first term registration costs PLUS a free trial! Get in touch to find out more. Call 07983392479 or email SportsKids@outlook.com. www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk
SATURDAY AND AFTER SCHOOL
TEACHERS REQUIRED
11+ TUITION - HATCH END, PINNER & BUSHEY Due to expansion we are looking for qualified and experienced Key Stage 2 teachers to join our wonderful, friendly, vibrant and enthusiastic team based in Hatch End. Excellent rates of pay.
Please forward your details and/or CV to kate@hatchend11plus.co.uk or call 020 8421 3066 or 07739 903 144
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NEWS Celebrate Play on Playday UK! Playday is the national day for play on Wednesday 1 August. Playday is an annual celebration of children’s play with thousands of children and families playing outside at events across the UK. It is an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of children’s play and the need for quality play opportunities every day of the year. As well as a celebration of children’s right to play, Playday is a campaign that highlights the importance of play in children’s lives. You can hold and register your own Playday event or find one close to you by visiting www.playday.org.uk
New website offers affordable online resources, perfect for 11+ preparation It’s a simple fact that the children who do the best at the 11+ are those who practise, practise, practise! PreSitEducation.co.uk, an exciting new website, makes practice easy. PreSit offer unlimited access to The 11+ Skills Bank, a huge bank of realistic 11+ questions, so children can practise and perfect the core skills needed to pass the test. To build confidence for the big day, Presit provide Timed Online Exams in Verbal Reasoning, Maths and English, enabling children to get a feel for the real exams, practise their exam technique, receive detailed feedback and target their revision more precisely. Developed by qualified teachers, PreSit’s resources enable children to revise ‘smartly’, allowing them to identify and target weaker areas quickly, thus maximising their chances of success. Families can ‘try before they buy’ with a free Skills Bank trial and a Free Exam available online. www.presiteducation.co.uk
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State boarding school offers Boarding Taster Weekends One of the most prestigious state Grammar schools in the country is holding Boarding Taster Weekends for primary school boys in Year 5 and Year 6 across London and the Home Counties, in order to help parents with their school choices. Founded in 1656, Haberdashers’ Adams in Newport, Shropshire, is one of just nine selective state grammar schools in the whole of the country to offer boarding for boys aged 11-18. There is no charge for the education so boarding at Adams becomes a more affordable and attractive option at just over £3,800 a term. Pupils achieve high academic results with around 98% of students progressing onto many of the top UK universities around the country, including Oxford and Cambridge. To register your interest in boarding contact Caroline Cheal/Sonya Wilson, Haberdashers’ Adams Tel: (01952) 953823 or visit the school’s website www.adamsgs.uk to find our more and to complete an online enquiry form.
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Education
Making the transition to secondary school
How much to help and How much to let go By Linda Stone
P
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. You may also worry specifically about your child’s ability to cope with the new environment and, crucially, whether he or she will make friends. 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 readier 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.
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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 out 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. Gradually, they will learn to make informed choices about friends. 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! Avoid weekend breaks and reduce extra-curricular commitments to the minimum. Now is not the time for your child to begin new activities or classes. (See page 14 for details of Wellbeing classes designed to support children with transition this summer} And lastly, schedule time to relax yourself! All will eventually be well.
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Education
How to seize the summer with Explore Learning
T
he summer holidays are a great time for families to spend time together. However, it can also be a time when children forget some of the skills they have mastered at school. Miss Evans, a year 6 teacher, stated “Teachers often find that children begin the new school year having forgotten key skills. It is important that children have opportunities over the summer break to continue to develop their abilities.” Here are some ideas from Charlotte Gater, Head of Curriculum at Explore Learning, on how to seize the summer.
Start a blog Give your child a little note book to jots ideas down whilst you are out and about, then write up what you’ve done. Take lots of pictures as these are a great tool to help children who find writing tricky. Encourage them to describe what is happening in the picture to get their creativity flowing.
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Send a postcard Let your friends and family know what you’ve been up to. They’re only short so are a wonderful way to get a bit of writing going during the holidays. If your child is reluctant to write, then why not try a postcard app like ‘By Post’? They can take their own pictures to make into postcards and type their message.
Read, read and read some more Pop a book in your bag so you can use this when travelling on days out. We will be uploading weekly activities that you can complete with your child to help keep them engaged with what they are reading. Visit explorelearning.co.uk/summer to find out more and download your first activity!
Play some games These are great for so many reasons, from developing language to improving memory skills. Needs some new games? Have a scavenger hunt in local charity shops to see who in the family can find the best game.
Tuition To keep your children progressing over the summer, a tuition centre is a great option. Prevent the battle ground of getting children to do work at home and get them along to a tuition centre where there are lots of other children getting involved. Explore Learning offers free taster sessions, so get in touch today by calling 033 01243802. Explore Learning was voted number one private tuition centre in the UK. With over 137 centres nationwide, since 2001, they have helped over 200,000 children aged four to 14 to achieve their potential. They get to know every child as an individual, giving them the space to unlock their imagination and discover the magic of learning.
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Education
Call us to arrange an individual appointment
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Camps and Activities Compiled by Anna Blackshaw
Whether you are looking for childcare options so they can play while you work, or ad-hoc days to add variety to the weeks – camps and activities are a fantastic opportunity to introduce new experience, friendships, or hone skills with a crash course.
The Windmill Studio Centre
DAY CAMPS Aqua Vie Swimming
Do you lack confidence in water? Have trouble breathing or feel tense when swimming? Our Specialist methods will help you. We are different because of what we don't teach. The only swim school using Alexander Technique. Pool safety first, fun easy to learn, back floating. How to be calm in the water. We have had 5 months old babies floating independently. Adults, Babies & Children 5 day Swim Intensive Two morning courses are available in Bushey. A lesson each day for 5 days. Mon 23rd July to Fri 27th July Mon 6th August to Fri 10th August Please email Michelle to register office@aqua-vie.com Mob 07525 657 987 www.aqua-vie.com
Artzania Art and Craft Activity Club Children’s Arts and Crafts activity club ages 1-11 yrs open during term time and holidays. Parent Toddler Group (aged 1-4 yrs); Afterschool/ Holiday Club (ages 5-11yrs). Contact to book your place: Keshma: 07419343105 E: Keshma.artzania@gmail.com Aspire Offer Ofsted-registered activity camps during the school breaks. Camps are great for 5 - 14 year olds and are run by experienced staff. 020 8420 6725, www. aspire.org.uk Barracudas Activity Day Camps at Watford Grammar School for Boys. Spending the holidays with them means children get to: develop new skills, make new friends, try new activities and most of all have fun! With over 80+ activities including: motorsports, archery, fencing, clay model making, dance and drama there is plenty of activities to keep children entertained. Summer Camps run from 16th July-24th August. 0845 123 5299 info@barracudas.co.uk www. barracudas.co.uk Blag Youth Theatre - Fame meets School of Rock. 2 week summer school Chorleywood, Rickmansworth. 10.00am-6.00pm. 2 Performances at the Elgiva Theatre, Chesham. Price £285.00. 10% off when you mention Families. 23rd July - 4th August 2018. It’s gonna be awesome! 01923 772320 www.blagtheatre.co.uk
www.activetime.co.uk 8 Families North West London
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Camps and Activities
The Windmill Studio Centre Summer Workshops at Blank Canvas Art Club “Acrylic on Canvas Project”. 23rd -26th July 9.30 – 2.30pm 8-18yrs £140. “Pets & Dinosaurs” and “Story Time Imagination” 30th July. 5-7yrs 2hr sessions. £15 each. “Imagination Day” 1st Aug. “Stencilling - Banksy & beyond” 2nd Aug. “Same thing, 3 ways” 3rd Aug. 1st3rd Aug 9.30 – 2.30pm For 7-18yrs. £30 each. (E)blankcanvasartclub@gmail.com. (M) 07773 819 603 www.Facebook.com/ BlankCanvasArtClub
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DiscoG Coding Academy will be running a series of hands-on coding bootcamps to introduce the key concepts of the Python Programming Language. In our Mini Coders Bootcamps for 6 - 8 year olds, children will learn to visually express their creativity in the form of digital art. Our Young Coders Bootcamp for 9 - 14 year olds introduces coding through the fascinating world of electronics. Students will take part in a series of simple projects, use a breadboard to build and control basic electronic circuits with LEDs, buzzers, traffic lights, morse code and much more… Sign up to DiscoG Coding Academy’s half-term, Easter or Summer Holiday Bootcamps to start your coding journey today! Call Gerard on: 07767300940 www.discogcodingacademy.com Location: 504 Kenton Lane, Harrow, HA3 8RD
Echo’s Equestrian Centre summer Hoof camps 30 July – 3 August and 6 Aug to 10 Aug. Slough Road, Iver, Bucks www.echosequestrian.co.uk/ 07895 706 053 Elisa’s Tutorial School – for children ages 2.5 to 16 years. Expert tuition in English, Maths and reasoning for 4plus, 7plus, 11plus, 12 plus and GCSE. Preschool classes also available. 020 8958 1192; 07956 868 119 www.kidslearnfast.co.uk; www.ElisaGianoncelli.com The Elms School Holiday Multi-Sports Camps – Action packed daily sports camps running in Stanmore, Hatch End, Ruislip, Barnet, Amersham and many more areas! Football, hockey, tennis, netball and many more sports for ages 4-12 years. 020 8954 8787 www.elmsholidaycamps.co.uk Excel Academy Tuition Centres - run special revision sessions during the Summer to boost the exam preparation of students. During these booster sessions they run crash courses covering the entire syllabus and anything that the students have missed or need help with, including exam style questions and lots of practice on the harder topics. www.excelacademy.org.uk Continued on page 10
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Camps and Activities Gymboree Watford Offer Family Gym and Family Music Classes all year round for children from 6 months to 5 years. Why not book in for a class during the holidays and take the family along for some fun? Contact watford@gymboree-uk.com, 01923 250440, www.gymboree-uk.com/watford Harrow Arts Centre – Summer Music Camp from Thurs 26 Jul - Wed 1 Aug, 9:30am - 5:00 pm for ages 7-12 years. A special 5-day extravaganza of music, singing, craft, dance and FUN!! Learn how to sing, dance and play the steel pans, African drums and ukulele in one jam-packed week, culminating in a finale performance on Wednesday afternoon! All sessions are provided by Harrow Music Service instrumental teachers. Optional breakfast and board games club for early starters (8.30am start). 020 3773 7161 www.harrowarts.com The Windmill Studio Centre Continued from page 9
Explore Learning – Our award-winning maths and English tuition has a proven track record of delivering academic and social progress, all year round. We’re confident you’ll love it so why not book your free trial today! explorelearning.co.uk Fit For Sport delivering OFSTED registered Activity Camps for children aged between 3 – 12 years old, for over 20 years. Camps are a great way for your child to keep active, have fun, make new friends and take part in a wide range of sports and activities. Activity camps are delivered every school holiday by Fit for Sport, the UK’s Leading Healthy Lifestyle Activities Provider! 0845 456 3233 or www.fitforsport.co.uk The Greatest Circus - For one Summer only, Watford Palace introduces The Greatest Circus! Go along for a week of drama games, devising, character development and storytelling and discover the adventures of the circus. Act as a gymnast, juggler, magician, tightrope walker... What will your act be? Mon 30th Jul - Fri 3rd Aug, 10am-4pm. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk
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Harrow Woodcraft Folk Fun & freedom in the countryside, at their weekend camps all summer, for all the family. Camp craft such as putting up tents & fire lighting; group games in the fields and woods; exploring nature; arts and crafts and campfire songs & stories. Call 0208 428 2409 www. woodcraft.org.uk Hertsmere's Summer Fun Play Schemes School holiday fun with craft workshops, face painting, team games, bouncy castle, sports and games plus lots more! The Holiday Clubs are registered with and regularly inspected by OFSTED and are split into 2 age groups, 5 - 7 year olds, and 8 - 14 year olds. www.hertsmereleisure.co.uk Hillingdon Outdoor Activities Centre (HOAC) Sailing, Windsurfing, Kayaking and Land activities for 5-18 yr olds.01895 824 171 www.hoac.net Holiday and term time one to one preparation for 4+ and 5+ entry for assessments in 2018 in the comfort of your home. Experienced Montessori teacher with excellent results in all the top schools. Please contact Karen on 07887-984401 or at wilkin@afrormosia.com.
Holidaytime Holiday Club – Holiday club open 7.30am-6pm for children aged 3-13 years. Indoor and outdoor space. swimming pool, sports, arts and crafts, cooking, trips, workshops, free time. Qualified and experienced staff. Full day, half day booking, Childcare vouchers except. 07794078452 holidays@activetime.co.uk www.activetime. co.uk Huzzah Performing Arts & Mindfulness - Huzzah have created a superhero blend to build confidence from the inside out. Drama, dance, singing and a touch of mindfulness. Ages 4 - 11. Classes run Monday - Friday in July and August. For venues, details and themes see www. huzzahperformingarts.com. Creative, calm, confident kids. Ignite Tennis Camps – for all ages and abilities (3yrs+). Visit www.ignitetennis.co.uk for dates and times. Quote FamiliesNW for £10 discount!. JK Educate 11+ Workshops - JK Educate Workshop series helps children succeed in 11+ exams. English and Maths workshops at Stephens House and Gardens, 17 East End Road, London N3 3QE. www. jkeducate.co.uk 020 3488 0754 Jigsaw Summer Schools – designed to provide enjoyable and stimulating performing arts activities for students during the school holidays. The sessions are split into age groups of 3 to 5 years and 6 to 16 years. 020 8447 4530 www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk Kids Can Achieve Run playschemes for children with additional needs. The playscheme is all about your child having fun through play and structured activities, and sessions are arranged around constructive play, arts and crafts, outdoor play and swimming. 020 8420 2300 www.kidscanachieve.co.uk King's Camps the UK's leading provider of sport and activity camps for 4-17 year olds during the holidays. Offering week long packages and FlexiCare; there’s something available for everyone.0114 263 2160 www. kingscamps.org
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Camps and Activities
Stagecoach Leaders Are Readers – Their Summer School is attended by children from all over the world and early booking is advised. This year they are running from Monday 23rd July to Friday 10th August, 2018 (3 weeks) at Bentley Wood High School, Stanmore; and Monday 30th July to Friday 17th August, 2018 (3 weeks) at Haydon School in Pinner. The aim is to cover a year’s essential work in 3 weeks, fill in learning gaps and prepare children on advanced topics so they can zoom ahead when they return to school in September. 01992 651300 www. leadersarereaders.co.uk Little Big Leaders - Is your child struggling with their Reading, Maths or English and aged 3.5 to 11? That's where we come in with affordably priced lessons, term time and Summer School with results. Call NOW 020 3637 6266 (24hrs) www. littlebigleaders.com Little Kickers Courses running throughout the summer. Football training for kids from 18 months to under 7 years. Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, South Harrow & Watford jodiesloan@littlekickers.co.uk 0208 123 9346. Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders Green, Muswell Hill,
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Friern Barnet jlevene@littlekickers.co.uk 0208 201 1084. Bushey & Harrow HA3 0208 422 0676 www.littlekickers.co.uk Mini Minors Holiday Camp & Play Scheme Multi-activity holiday day camps for children aged 3-6 in Easter and Summer holidays. Based at Brookland School in Hampstead Garden Suburb from 3rd – 13th April. Activities include sports, arts and crafts, dance, drama, bouncy castle, yoga and much more! 020 8371 9686 www.xkeys. co.uk MockTestMasters – 11+ Mock Tests – practice for SW Herts Consortium and QE Boys exams. Saturday 14th July 2-5pm and Saturday 4 August 2-5pm in Watford. Feedback includes: Detailed report on your child’s strengths and weaknesses; Access to mock test questions and answers; Uniquely, all exam formats – just like the real exam! www.mocktestmastsers.com Monkey Music workshops are a popular way to keep children entertained during the holidays. Unlike the regular classes where children are strictly grouped according to age, the holiday workshops cater for a mixed age group of children. Older siblings
love joining in the fun and we also welcome friends and visitors. Book early to avoid disappointment. 0208 427 6595 www. monkeymusic.co.uk NoLimit Camps are an organisation providing holiday camp opportunities for child from 8 to 16 years old with additional needs. Our slogan is 'Making sport inclusive for all' and our camps aim to keep all children active and occupied whilst having plenty of fun! Everything at NoLimit has been created and led by a team with over 15 years experience working in schools with children who have SEND. www. nolimitcamps.co.uk info@nolimitcamps. co.uk NumberWorks‘nWords Maths and English tuition classes which will target identified needs to improve achievement levels. Catering for all levels from 4 to 16 years old. Specialised programmes for 7+, 11+ and SATs. www.numberworks.co.uk 0208 868 7672 eastcote@numberworks.com Contact me for details on SUMMER WORKSHOPS 2018 Continued on page 12
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Camps and Activities Continued from page 11
Perform - Three and five day summer courses: The Greatest Show on Earth Ages: 7-12 Dance, sing and join the fun this summer. In Perform’s five day courses for 7-12 year olds, your child could rehearse and perform a specially written show combining uplifting songs, dazzling dancing and a heart-warming story. Dates: 13 Aug - 17 Aug, 10am - 3pm, Bernays Memorial Hall, 25 The Broadway, Stanmore, London, HA7 4DA 20 Aug - 24 Aug, 10am - 3pm, St Luke's Parish Hall, Love Lane, Pinner, Middlesex, HA5 3EX. Contact: T: 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk/summerfun Push and Glide – Run 5 day crash courses during the holidays at Northwood College. These are suitable for ages 3-4 years and 4 years+. 07749 554405 www.pushandglide. co.uk Raviv Practice London (West London) Catch up reading course. Improve reading age by 1 year in 3 months of home based work. The computer interventions is similar to having a tutor in your home with daily monitoring and feedback. Usha Patel on 07766 837 616 usha.patel@ ravivpracticelondon.co.uk. (Registered Therapist.) Rose Hall Farm Offer a range of courses for junior riders, including Pony Day’s, and 2, 3 or 4 day courses which cover show jumping or flatwork/dressage, with riding in the morning and afternoon. They also include lectures on various aspects of show jumping or dressage and stable management. 01442 833269 www.rosehallfarm.co.uk Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts From 20th-25th August Sharpe Academy will be running a Musical Theatre Summer School at Watersmeet in Rickmansworth. www. sharpeacademy.co.uk
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Stagecoach Summer Workshops Create a Show in a Week! Make friends, learn skills and build confidence Harrow www.stagecoach.co.uk/harrow 020 3504 0100 30th July - 3rd August Stanmore www.stagecoach.co.uk/stanmore 020 3504 2154 30th July - 3rd August Harrow on the Hill www.stagecoach.co.uk/ harrowonthehill 01923 248 294 13th - 17th August Stitch Club Textile and Art Workshops in our dedicated Stitch Studio in central Pinner. Suitable for boys and girls aged 8+. All fabrics and materials supplied. 0750 300 1024 www.stitch.club Super Camps - Go down to Super Camps during the Summer Holidays for the best in holiday activities for children. Their daily and weekly activity camps allow children get the most out of their holiday time, with a jampacked programme of fun activities that will keep your children entertained for hours. www.supercamps.co.uk
The Radlett Centre Five Day Musical Theatre Workshops. 8-18 years. Mon 30 Jul - Fri 3 Aug & Mon 20 - Fri 24 Aug. Sing, dance and act at this very popular event! They do not ask for any previous experience, but as this is a performance of a very high standard, you must be prepared to work hard and take direction. 01923 857546 www.radlettcentre.co.uk Regent Summer Holiday School - Holiday School for ages 5-14 years at Harrow (Carmine Court, HA2) and Southall (3947 High Street, UB1). Mornings focus on consolidating the student’s national curriculum learning with a programme of activities in English, Maths and Science. Fun and interactive activities in the afternoon to enhance group working, confidence and creativity. From 30th July to 31st August, 9am-3.30pm (extended hrs available until 5.30pm). 11+ Entrance Exam preparation at Edgware (Boundary House, HA8). An intensive and comprehensive 2 week educational programme specialising in preparation for both grammar and independent schools. www.regentlearning.com Continued on page 14
Paediatric First Aid Courses Sun 22 July, Sat 11 Aug, Sat 22 Sept - 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
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Camps and Activities
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Camps and Activities every school holiday. As well as all the fun of Willows Activity Farm, the children enjoy indoor play in their exclusive playrooms. Activities include farmyard animals, funfair rides, bouncy castles, The Big Dig - sand and water play, indoor play barn, treasure hunts and den building. With changing seasonal events there’s something new each school holiday. Willows Activity Day Camps are OFSTED registered. 01727 829535 www. willowsactivityfarm.com
The Windmill Studio Centre, based in Ruislip Manor. "MINIONS MADNESS” Summer Holiday Fun Workshop 2018 for kids aged 4-9 runs 9.30am-12.30pm 30th July – 3rd August amid the safe and clean surroundings of The Windmill Studio Centre, Pembroke Road, Ruislip Manor, HA4 8NW.
The Windmill Studio Centre Continued from page 12
Stage Is Yours - A 5-Day Musical Theatre Workshop for ages 7 to 14 at Winston Churchill Theatre. Go and work with an experienced Director, Choreographer and Musical Director, rehearsing songs, scenes and dance routines from hit West End and Broadway musicals in preparation for a final performance on stage. Mon 23 - Fri 27 Jul & Mon 13 - Fri 17 Aug, 10am-4pm. Final Shows Fri at 3.30pm. Both weeks will feature songs and scenes from different musicals, so participants can book for one or both. Also 2-Day Musical Theatre workshop for ages 4 to 6, Thu 26 - Fri 27 Jul & Thu 16 - Fri 17 Aug, 10am-4pm. Advance booking is advised, spaces for each week are limited. www.hillingdontheatres.uk Type IT! Typing Crash Courses for children age 10+. Learn to touch type in just one
week with our fun, interactive tutor-led typing courses. Courses running in Summer holidays. To book contact Type IT! on 020 8434 7111. www.typeitforkids.co.uk Watford Football Club Central Trust Run ‘Holiday Fun Weeks’ for 5-12 year olds. 01923 496362 www.watfordfccsetrust.com Well-Being Workshops Well-being workshops in Rickmansworth for children aged 9-12yr and 13-17yr olds. Holiday masterclasses to support the holistic mind, body and spirit learning. By exploring emotional intelligence, imagination, yoga, mindfulness, role-play and many more creative/outdoor activities. Contact Anita: 07956 849614, wellbeingkids@gmail.com
Professionally run by DBS checked staff, the Workshop features a host of fun activities themed around those crazy, yet adorable, yellow, pill-shaped animated characters from the hit Despicable Me and Minions movies – including creative arts, cold cooking, singing, dancing, acting and modelling with a special farewell fancy dress party and party lunch on the final day. Jimmy the JAMtots Bear will also be popping in and joining in the fun throughout the week. A morning snack and drink is included in the £80 price. Contact T: 01895 624755, E: thewindmillstudio@ gmail.com
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Willows Activity Farm – Activity Day Camps
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 14 Families North West London
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Camps and Activities
11+ Mock Tests
SW Consortium
QE Boys subjects
Saturday 14 July 2018 ........................ 2pm - 5.00pm Saturday 4 August 2018 ..................... 2pm - 5.00pm Nascot Wood Junior School, Nascot Wood Road, Watford WD17 4YS
£30 per paper including detailed feedback
BOOK NOW www.mocktestmasters.com FEEDBACK includes:
✔ Detailed report on your child’s strengths and weaknesses ✔ Access to mock test questions and answers ✔ Uniquely, all exam formats - just like the real exam!
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Families North West London 15
Parenting
Keep your sanity this summer!
Plan your school holiday ‘routine’
S
chool’s out for summer!!! Does this fill you with excitement or send a shiver down your spine?
The summer holidays can represent a huge amount of stress for many parents – 6 weeks or more of no regular childcare, pressure on a limited number of annual days’ leave, and the constant worry about how to occupy the children. Prime “put yourself last” time. As a transformational coach I help shift assumptions and patterns of thinking that recreate what has happened before, and so, let’s create something new this summer. The most challenging thing about the summer holidays is that the routine goes out of the window. It leaves us scrabbling around to just survive until we can breathe a sigh of relief come the beginning of September!
Here are 5 steps to help you enjoy the summer and lower your stress. 1. What do you want? Perhaps this is a tough one to answer when you feel like you have limited choices, but let’s assume for a minute that they are limitless. How would you like to spend the summer? Are you working every day? Do you take a holiday at home or abroad? If this wasn’t already ironed out, what would you create? Let’s start with a blank sheet. An honest one where your needs and wants can roam free.
2. How much time do you enjoy spending with your children? Not everyone enjoys spending every single moment with their children. And when you don’t enjoy it, the children know about it you become snappy and intolerant, and that isn’t good for any of your family, so taking the time to answer this is invaluable. There will be a tipping point where you are enjoying the time, and then you start to get irritable. For me this comes when I spend multiple days at home alone with my daughter, without variation. So I design variation into my week – of location, of activity, and of who looks after her. Notice where your tipping point is – is it 2 consecutive days – are you glad to go back to work on Mondays? Is it a week?
3. What will that time look like? Depending on how much time you are in a joyful state for will guide you as to how to spend that time. If a whole day is attractive, but a whole week isn’t, maybe it would be better to stagger your annual leave over the whole holiday. Perhaps you take every Wednesday off to break up the week rather than an entire week where emotions are likely to run higher. This is how I love to spend time with my daughter, and so we plan day trips to the beach, or we do a treasure trail at a country house and gardens. She’s happy. I’m happy. It’s important to have a purpose for the time
16 Families North West London
you spend together, even if that is playing in the paddling pool for a couple of hours.
4. Close the gaps Once you have identified the time that you want to, and can, spend with the children over the summer, and you have some ideas about joyful ways to spend that time, there are going to be some gaps. Summer camps are often flexible, so you don’t have to book in for the whole day or
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Parenting
“The most challenging thing about the summer holidays is that the routine goes out of the window.“
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the whole week. You can use this as a way to plug the gaps in your schedule. Friends and Family are a great source of support if you are lucky enough to have them close to you. Family may be begging for some quality time – schedule this in for the entire school holidays as you would a kids club. Fellow parents may be glad to trade a day so you can have a fun day with your children and their friends knowing that next week they are doing it all again with the other parents.
5. Create repetition Schedule your gap fillers on the same days each week where possible. This will avoid that feeling of confusion from one day to the next. In term time we do the same series of things over and over again, so keep the things that work in the summer too. Wake up at the same time – even if this is later than in term time. Feed them at the same time. Read every day. It’s tempting to take time off from these things in the holidays, but we all feel more stable when we have a routine. Choose yours this summer and above all, enjoy it!
Open Day/Fun Day - Saturday 14th July 11am to 2.30pm! Special Open Day offers available! Up to 50% off the first two months Nursery fees T & C’s apply
If you’d like my help with this, you can find me at www.susieramroop.com or on facebook.com/CoachSusieRamroop.
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Families North West London 17
Days Out
Days Out Over the Summer Compiled by Anna Blackshaw Aldenham Country Park (WD6) There’s so much to see and do at Aldenham Country Park: Farm visits, Animal Petting, Adventure Playground, Egg Collecting, Pig Racing, Pooh Bear Visits, 100 Aker Woods, Monkey Nets, Lakeside Walks & much more. PLUS SEND Multi-Sensory Indoor & Outdoor Play for SEND families. www.aldenhamcountrypark.co.uk Alexandra Palace (N22) There are a whole wealth of activities to keep the family entertained over the holidays – the ice rink which is open year round, pitch and putt, soft play and the boating lake, as well as the Garden Centre and café. This year also features The Monster – the world’s biggest bouncy castle experience, taking place from 24th – 27th August. www.alexandrapalace.com Alton Towers (ST10) Go and explore CBeebies Land - the only place where you can meet, join in, and play with all your favourite CBeebies characters. Don’t forget that children under three go free! Enjoy 14 rides & attractions including the Furchester Hotel Live Show and the Go Jetters Vroomster Zoom Ride. www.altontowers.com
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Aqua Park Rutland (LE15) Now measuring over 100m by 80m, the floating inflatable Aqua Park has climbing walls, trampolines, balance bars, rockers, rollers, blast bags the UK’s biggest slides and a special corner for adrenaline junkies – it’s awesome! Open from 26th May to 23rd September, there are sessions especially for 6 years+ daily at 10am, starting from 15th July. www.aquaparkrutland.co.uk Bank of England Museum (EC2R) Gold Rush! From 23rd Jul – 31st Aug. It is the summer of 1836. The Bank’s Directors have received a strange letter with a grave declaration: there is a drain in London which leads straight to the Bank’s gold vaults! But where is the location of the drain in question, and who is the person that has made this bizarre statement? Get to the bottom of the mystery by navigating your way round the museum and solving the clues as you go to claim your reward! www.bankofengland.co.uk Belmont Farm (NW7) Belmont Farm offers a unique opportunity for anyone, young or old, to meet, handle and feed a huge variety of farm animals. Being the only public farm of its size within the M25, Belmont is the perfect place for Londoners to
experience a real working farm, hands on. Go down and visit to see over 30 different animal varieties; from cows to exotic lovebirds, pet the bunnies, feed the goats, and jump aboard the tractor and trailer ride to discover even more! www.belmontfarm.co.uk British Museum (WC1B) Take on Baron Ferdinand’s Challenge at the British Museum, a free app for families based on the Waddesdon Bequest. The museum also has some great family events taking place over the summer, and don’t forget to collect a gallery backpack, full of fun activities to complete as you explore the museum. www.britishmuseum.org LittleLife’s new Safety iD Straps are a peaceof-mind accessory for mini festivalgoers and on family days out!. Each Safety iD Strap comes with two ID cards which can be filled out with the parent or guardian’s contact number and key medical information including food or medicine allergies. For more information about the new Safety iD Straps, visit www.littlelife.com
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Days Out
Kids Week Campus West Entertainment District (AL8) Campus West in Welwyn Garden City is home to all your entertainment needs under one roof. Welwyn Garden City Cinema is an independent 3-screen cinema which shows the latest blockbusters and films on the day of nationwide release. Incredibles 2 and Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again are just two of the big movies screening over the summer, so book early to choose your seats. For the ultimate fun experience with your family, a skate session at RollerCity – Hertfordshire’s only purpose-built roller skating rink - will delight and surprise you. With prebookable roller skating sessions, you can also host parties for your children with food and drinks included, so just turn up, enjoy the party and they will do the rest. These parties sell like hot skates (see what we did there?), so early booking is advisable. Soft Play City has unlimited play sessions, with a healthy menu available. Open 7 days a week, with dedicated age zones from 0-8 years,
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entry is free for babies under 1 year old. There are a variety of parties on offer to suit every budget and every occasion - from shared sessions to exclusive parties. You can get up to 50% off tickets and food and drink with a FREE Zebra Discount Card. Please go online, chat to one of our staff for more information or fill out a form the next time you visit. Please go to www.cwentertainment.co.uk for more information and to book. Chessington World of Adventures (KT9) New for 2018 – The Gruffalo Groove! Journey with other Chessington Adventurers at The Gruffalo Arena through the deep dark wood and encounter some familiar creatures along the way through song and dance. Both kids and parents alike can learn the words and moves, before enjoying the animated film. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for an appearance from the Gruffalo himself! www.chessington.com
Chiltern Open Air Museum (HP8) Looking for ideas to entertain the kids this summer? Chiltern Open Air Museum, in Chalfont St Giles, Bucks, has lots of activities planned for the summer. Every Tuesday in Bucks School holidays is a Terrific Tuesday: these are themed activity and craft days with all activities included within the Museum’s standard admission price. Every Thursday throughout the summer holidays is a Creative Thursday where artists and crafts people will be demonstrating and children can have a go at arty activities, and take part in the national Arts Award Discover. From 23 – 28 July you can book your child a spot on an archaeological dig next to the Museum’s Iron Age roundhouse. For 9 – 13 year olds book them onto the Museum’s Go Wild in the Woods holiday club (6 – 10 August) where children can learn how to create fire, make a bow, have a go at archery, purify water, build a tarp shelter and much more. The Museum also offers a host of family experience days. And if that’s not enough there is a special living history event every weekend! Annual Passes start from just £18 so it’s well worth the investment. Visit www.coam.org.uk Cineworld Want to introduce your children to the exciting world of cinema? Then get involved with Movies For Juniors, the discounted weekly screenings of kids films at Cineworld Cinemas. From just £2.50 choose from a selection of lively kids movies, from animated films to live action features. A perfect rainy day activity! Local venues include Wembley and South Ruislip. www.cineworld.com
Families North West London 19
Days Out Drayton Manor Park & Thomasland (B78) Don’t miss the Summer Sensation from 25th Jul – 3rd Sept, where you can get 4 tickets for £80, as well as enjoy fun family events. Don’t forget to visit Thomas Land, the perfect summer day out for younger children. Go and meet Thomas and all his friends, and enjoy rides such as Harold’s Helicopter Tours, Bertie Bus, Toby’s Tram Express and so many more. www.draytonmanor.co.uk Go Ape! Quote FAMILIESNW for 10% off per person! See ad for t&c’s. The UK’s number one forest adventure found in 33 of the UK’s most breathtaking locations. Days out at Go Ape are about living life more adventurously, having fun, spending time with friends and getting in touch with your inner Tarzan (he’s in there, we promise). www.goape.co.uk Gulliver’s Land (MK15) Designed for children aged 2-13 years, comprising thrill rides, fun rides, family rides, indoor rides, attractions, shows and play areas. From the Runaway Train in Discovery Bay to the Jungle River Ride and classic Dodgems there are plenty of exciting rides to ensure that all the family have a fun day out. Guests are welcome to take their own lunches to enjoy in the picnic areas, helping to make this an affordable family day out. www.gulliversfun.co.uk Hampton Court Palace (KT8) This summer, the Tudor service area of the palace is bought to life, with yeomen, laundresses, barbers, sergeants of the cellars and women of the nursery hurrying about the King’s business. Don’t be surprised if you run into some of these members of King Henry’s staff bustling about below stairs. Feel free to ask them about their work, their clothes and the tools of their trades, or indeed their opinions about their boss! www.hrp.org.uk Hyde Park (W2) British Summer Time at Hyde Park is offering free weekday entry and activities for everyone from 9th – 12th July. Including free themed movie nights, live music and entertainment, street food, pop up bars, tennis screenings, aerial circus, comedy bingo, family theatre, the Royal Parks Showcase, birra Moretti bar & much more. www.bst-hydepark.com JW3 Beach (NW3) Hampstead Beach comes back to JW3 for the fourth time; has free entry and will be open from Sunday to Friday from 1st July – 2nd September. Summer’s coming to Hampstead’s urban beach, with golden sand, amazing food and cocktails to set the mood for long evenings of sun, fun and holiday vibes. Special events taking place on the beach throughout the summer will be announced soon. Build a sandcastle with buckets and spades courtesy of JW3 and enjoy dipping your feet and letting the kids splash in the paddling pool. If you have little ones please bring swimming nappies and appropriate clothing for them to wear. www.jw3.org.uk Kids Week (Various) This August, children aged 16 and under can get FREE theatre tickets to selected performances when they’re accompanied by a full-paying adult. There are 43 shows to choose from and a whole programme of activities to keep them entertained this summer. Plus, adults can buy up to two extra kids’ tickets at half price, and there are no booking or postage fees. Welcome the drama
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Kids Week this summer holiday. www.officiallondontheatre.com/kids-week Knebworth House and Gardens (SG3) Dino Adventure takes place at Knebworth on Sat 18th August! Go and experience the prehistoric world of the dinosaurs, conquer the special dinosaur trail quiz and claim and exciting reward. Take part in a hands-on experience with the live reptilian relatives of the dinosaurs: snakes, lizards and tortoises. Join Tara from Tiny T’s who will be telling her hand written tales about what she found on her explorer adventures! Storytelling times: 12:30pm, 1:30pm, 2:30pm & 3:30pm. www.knebworthhouse.com Lee Valley (EN9/E10) Lee Valley Regional Park is the ideal place for those fun and exciting days out with the kids. Whether it’s the fantastic Lee Valley Park Farms to ice skating, beautiful nature reserves to horse riding, there is certainly something to keep the whole family happy and wanting more. www.visitleevalley.org.uk Legoland Windsor (SL4) 2018 marks 60 years of the brick and to celebrate there will be some awesome new attractions full of LEGO® bricks! Miniland Explore the World opened in March 2018 and features 4 countries, with 55 master model makers replicating landmarks using LEGO® Bricks for almost 12,000 hours! From Australia to Russia, go on an adventure through Miniland, sightseeing the world through incredible LEGO builds which you can build yourself. www.legoland.co.uk London Bridge City – Summer by the River (SE1) Summer by the River has a stellar programme of FREE outdoor cinema, ballet and opera screenings coming to The Scoop this summer. Running until 2nd September, Summer by the River will play host to a star studded line up of modern favourites including La La Land and Guardians of the Galaxy and cult classics such as Grease, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. www.londonbridgecity.co.uk Madame Tussauds (NW1) The #MarkleSparkle has arrived at Madame Tussauds! ‘Her Royal Likeness’ and husband Prince Harry, will feature in the attraction in front of a 15 foot wide video wall that allows guests to choose how they would like to hang out with the much-loved couple. Guests can select from a range of backdrops and props
to capture a moment with the young Royals – from the cutting of the cake at their wedding to relaxing on a private beach. www.madametussauds.co.uk The O2 (SE10) Up at The O2 is an unforgettable expedition that offers adventurous families the chance to experience urban mountaineering with an exhilarating 90-minute climb up one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Dressed in full explorer attire, climbers aged 9+ will journey to the peak of the world-renowned entertainment venue with an experienced guide, and can enjoy the tremendous sense of achievement when they reach the viewing platform. www.theo2.co.uk/upattheo2 Paradise Wildlife Park (EN10) Visit one of the UK’s biggest & most spectacular Dinosaur Attractions now at Paradise Wildlife Park. Meet life-size animatronic Dinosaurs at the incredible World of Dinosaurs attraction. It is one of the UK’s biggest and most spectacular animatronic dinosaur attractions, set in acres of natural woodland. It will feature 30 life-size, moving and roaring dinosaurs – a real thrill for any dinosaur adventurer! www.pwpark.com Parkside Farm Pick Your Own (EN2) Nearly 20 different fruits and vegetables are grown exclusively for Pick-Your-Own between June and October. Crops include “table-top” strawberries (no bending required), raspberries, beans and sweetcorn. The farm is set in the beautiful rolling greenbelt countryside just to the north of Enfield, and yet is easily accessible from all the surrounding areas. www.parksidefarmpyo.co.uk Paulton’s Park & Peppa Pig World (SO51) The world’s first Peppa Pig theme park attraction, Peppa Pig World, is getting bigger and better! Fans of the hit TV series will be snorting with delight with two new rides, The Queen’s Flying Coach Ride and Grampy Rabbit’s Sailing Club. The Queen’s Flying Coach Ride will take families on a tour around the newly extended part of Peppa Pig World in individual coaches on a monorail that starts from the top of the Queen’s castle, a signature point of the attraction. Children and parents will also be able to hop aboard boats at Grampy Rabbit’s Sailing Club where they can cruise along the new water route around Peppa Pig World and discover Pirate Island. www.paultonspark.co.uk
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Days Out Roald Dahl Museum (HP16) * At time of going to print the museum was closed due to flooding. Check website for reopening details* This is a great little award-winning Museum, situated in the Buckinghamshire village where Roald Dahl lived and wrote for 36 years, and an ideal day out for any Roald Dahl fans! The Museum is aimed at 6 to 12 year olds and features three interactive galleries. You can also enjoy free drop-in crafts every day (closed most Mondays), and free storytelling at weekends and during the Buckinghamshire school holidays. www.roalddahl.com/museum Sea Life London (SE1) An amazing rainforest world of giant tarantulas, fearsome fresh water predators and bugs that bite await guests at SEA LIFE London’s new interactive experience, Rainforest Adventure. Guests are invited to step deep into a rainforest habitat where they will discover thousands of amazing inhabitants including the world’s heaviest spider, The Goliath Bird Eating Tarantula, the UK’s largest population of RedBellied Piranhas, Bowser the Snapping Turtle, thousands of Hissing Cockroaches and more. www.visitsealife.com/london Shrek’s Adventure (SE1) Head along to the Southbank and step into the kingdom of Far Far Away! Here you can enjoy a madcap Shrek adventure where amazing DreamWorks animation, captivating story-telling and a good dose of Donkey’s cheekiness awaits. The adventure begins when you board a magical 4D ‘DreamWorks Tours’ bus. With Donkey as your mischievous tour guide, calamity, chaos and endless fun are the name of the game. www.shreksadventure.com Stay Play Explore (various) Stay Play Explore short breaks are a fantastic collection of great value for money escapes for families. All packages include bed and breakfast and a choice of exceptional experiences, including destinations such as Leicestershire, Warwick and Stratford-uponAvon. You can create your perfect break, whether it’s quality time away with the family or an escape with friends or loved ones there’s plenty of choices to keep everyone happy without breaking the bank. Stepney City Farm (E1) A working farm, rural arts centre and community meeting place which gives children and adults a chance to meet farm
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animals, learn how to grow food and try out arts and crafts. The Farm is free to all visitors and everyone is welcome. Go along on the last Sunday of the month for Family Farm Club, which will have free drop in activities for children and accompanying adults. www. stepneycityfarm.org Thorpe Park (KT16) At Thorpe Park Resort there’s plenty to keep you cool this summer! Race against your family on Depth Charge or prepare for a super soaking on Tidal Wave! If you fancy something more chilled, head to Amity Beach to relax on the sand with your little ones! www.thorpepark.com V&A Museum of Childhood (E2) Did you know that you can pick up free activity packs for children when you visit the museum? Designed by Montessori, a selection of family packs for under 5s are available to borrow from the Information Desk. Each pack contains a map, activity suggestions, storybooks and toys to touch, and are all aimed at different age ranges. The Museum has lots of free fun things to do for all ages, from exhibitions and displays to activities for children. A great way to spend a day! www.vam.ac.uk/moc Warwick Castle (CV34) This summer marvel as the legendary Wars of the Roses unfolds before you during an epic live action show at Warwick Castle. Experience a spectacle never before seen in the UK, complete with perilous stunt riders, fearless jousting and state of the art special effects! www.warwick-castle.com Wembley Stadium Tours (HA9) The Wembley Stadium Tour is an unforgettable experience for all the family! This awardwinning, fully guided experience features Wembley’s most exclusive, behind-the-scenes locations such as the England Dressing Room, Players Tunnel, Press Room and much, much more. Your guided tour will include access to Wembley’s historical treasures such as the 1966 World Cup crossbar, the Jules Rimet Trophy commemorating England’s World Cup glory, the original flag from London’s 1948 Olympic Games and much, much more. www.wembleystadium.com/Wembley-Tours Wicksteed Park (NN15) There’s nowhere quite like Wicksteed Park. Along with 30 exciting rides and activities, including one of Europe’s longest zip wires, there’s 147 acres of beautiful rolling parkland.
Stay the night in the cosy campsite, wander round our woods, or jump aboard the UK’s most popular narrow gauge railway. You can also take a wander through the park for a Summer Scavenger Hunt and look out for signs of summer using the ‘spotter’ sheet. Everyone who participates in this free activity will receive a certificate. www.wicksteedpark.org Woburn Safari Park (MK17) Choose from a Road Safari or Foot Safari to see all the park has to offer. Once you’ve met the wild beasties of the African reserves, journeyed through the Kingdom of the Carnivores and been face to face with the cheeky monkeys in the Jungle reserve, you can brave the heights of the Treetops Action Trail, take a ride on the Great Woburn Railway, and take a pedal around Swan Lake. www.woburnsafari.co.uk Zip Now London (SE1) The world’s longest, fastest city –centre zip wire opens at Archbishop’s Park in Lambeth from 22nd May to 4th September. See the city from a unique perspective, with three 225 meter zip wires reaching speeds of up to 50 KPH! The minimum age is eight years, and children from 8 to 15 years need to be supervised. One adult can accompany up to three children. www.zipworld.co.uk ZSL Whipsnade Zoo (LU6) Have you ever wanted to know what animals get up to at night? Now’s your chance with Nature Night Camping at the Zoo. Pitch your tent on the main lawn and spend the evening discovering what both native and exotic animals get up to at night. Learn what to look for when tracking them down before going on a torchlight expedition around the Zoo to see what you can find and who is still awake! Running on selected dates in 2018, there are limited tickets available for this exciting experience, so book early to avoid disappointment. www.zsl.org
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Families North West London 21
What’s On
listings for all the family
What’s On
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 (Sept or Oct 2018 issues) send you entry by 10th August 2018 Email Listings@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.co.uk for all our local weekly regular events. It’s updated every day!
July Until Sun 9 Sep - The DC Exhibition: Dawn of Super Heroes (SE10) This exhibition at the O2 celebrates DC’s rich history, unique mythology and iconic Super Heroes and Super Villains such as Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and The Joker. Perfect for a family day out with plenty to appeal to both children and adults, this spectacular exhibition features more than 200 original comic pages, 300 preparatory sketches and concept artworks for the cinema, together with 45 original costumes, models and props used in the iconic films. www.DCExhibition.co.uk Fri 29 Jun – Sun 1 Jul - Imagine Watford (various) Imagine Watford is an exciting and high impact outdoor arts festival that brings the streets of Watford to life with world-class theatre, circus, dance and music performances, free for all the family. The festival showcases local, national and international artists of the highest quality, who transform Watford town centre into a place of wonder and excitement! www.imaginewatford.co.uk Sat 30 Jun - Lots for Tots Sale: Rickmansworth (WD3) It’s easy to sell at Lots for Tots! The table is set up and ready when you arrive and you take along your items to sell, choose the price and take all of your profits. The sale takes place at Rickmansworth School from 10-11.30am. There is parking onsite and the bus stops directly outside the school. info@lotsfortotssale.co.uk www.lotsfortots.co.uk Sat 30 Jun - Armed Forces Day (NW9) Go along to the RAF Museum to celebrate 100 years of the Royal Air Force this Armed Forces Day. They will be remembering
and celebrating Service personnel with music and activities throughout the day. It promises to be a day out for the whole family to enjoy. 11am – 4pm. www.rafmuseum.org.uk Sat 30 Jun – Sun 1 Jul - Queen’s Park Book Festival (NW6) Queen’s Park Book Festival has something for the whole family to enjoy with headliners including Zadie Smith, Simon Russell Beale, Giorgio Locatelli, Clemency Burton Hill, Eleanor Catton, Stanley Johnson and Shami Chakrabarti in a programme covering current affairs, politics, fiction, stage and screen, sport, music and poetry. A weekend of literary celebration in one of London’s favourite parks with a series of free events to entertain toddlers to teens. www.qpbookfest.com Sat 30 Jun – Sun 1 Jul - The Geronimo Festivals (SG3) The Geronimo Festivals are unlike any other family event in Britain offering something for both seasoned and newbie festival-goers. What sets Geronimo apart from other festivals is not only the unrivalled value for money the event offers, but also the sheer number of unique attractions to enjoy for all ages! Without doubt one of the most popular zones of any Geronimo Festival is the Main Stage. 2018 will see some of children’s TV royalty take to the stage to entertain including the one and only Justin Fletcher. Book your tickets today and make some magical memories in 2018! Takes place at Knebworth House. www.geronimofest.com Mon 2 - Sun 8 Jul - Summer Science Exhibition 2018 (SW1Y) The Royal Society, the UK’s national academy of sciences, will open its doors to the public to celebrate some of the most cutting edge research in the world. The 2018 edition of the Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition will feature 22 exhibits
expecting to draw more than 15,000 visitors over the course of the week. www.royalsociety.org/summer-science Wed 4 Jul - Handlebards Twelfth Night (HP8) Hilarious Shakespeare outdoor theatre at Chiltern Open Air Museum. Free child ticket with every adult ticket booked. www.coam.org.uk Wed 4 Jul - Hayes Outdoor presents Motionhouse and No Fit State (UB3) Spectacular dance and acrobatics all set on, in and around a giant Jenga structure, in a live show looking at life in the city. This event is one in a new season of amazing free outdoor arts shows taking place at High Point Village, every other Wednesday throughout the summer. Part of Hillingdon’s Art in Action 2018 season. Suitable for all ages. Free, no booking required. www.hillingdontheatres.uk Fri 6 – Sun 22 Jul - Big Screen (WD17) The Big Screen will be making a welcome return to the centre of Watford, promising two weeks of films that young and old can enjoy including blockbusters, rom coms and family films. The screen will also be showing live
coverage of this year’s Wimbledon semi-finals and final. The Big Screen is FREE - there is no need to book, just turn up and enjoy the films! www.watfordbigevents.co.uk Sat 7 Jul - The Nightlight Walk 2018 (WD18) Peace Hospice invite you to join them for their second magical 5k lantern walk. Everyone who takes part will be given a NightLight lantern which can be dedicate to a loved one and carried with you along the route to help light the way. This walk is suitable for all ages and will have many surprises along the route to keep everybody entertained. There will be food & drink stalls, rides and entertainment in the events village at Cassiobury Park from 5:30pm, with the event beginning at 8pm. www.peacehospicecare.org.uk/nightlight Sat 7 Jul, 4 Aug & 1 Sep Northwood Craft Market (HA6) Browse a wide variety of beautiful crafts on sale, all handmade by local crafters. There will also be a plant stall, hands-on crafts for children to make and take home, plus teas, coffees and homemade cakes available at the church coffee shop. The market opens from 10am until 2pm at Northwood Methodist Church Hall. www.northwoodcraftmarket.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 • • •
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”
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What’s On Sat 7 Jul - Hayes Family Fun Day 2018 (UB3) This summertime family event in Barra Hall Park, Hayes promises a day full of free family activities, including; children’s play, sports, arts and craft, cycle zone, a variety of community stalls and a visit from the summer lion! 11am to 4pm. www.hillingdon.gov.uk/hayesfunday Sat 7 Jul – Shipshape (E14) Explore London’s maritime history and create a pop-up ship based on the ships you can see in the galleries at the Museum of London Docklands. www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-londondocklands Sat 7, 14 & 21 Jul – Pop-Up Performance: Clara and the Magical Hat (SW7) This promenade performance encourages families to go on a magical journey around the V&A Museum with Clara Button and her brother Ollie. The expedition will begin in the V&A’s Islamic Gallery, before moving through the South Asia and Fashion Galleries. Admission free, drop-in. www.vam.ac.uk Sat 7, 14 & 21 Jul - Drop-In Design: Design A Magical Hat (SW7) This workshop, inspired by the V&A’s Fashioned From Nature exhibition, will encourage children to design a hat using sustainable materials. The workshop will follow the narrative set by the book Clara Button and the Magical Hat Day, in which Clara’s mother takes the family on a special day out to the V&A after Clara’s brother breaks her favourite hat. Admission free, drop-in. www.vam.ac.uk Sat 7 – Sun 8 Jul – Tales from the Puppeteer (HP8) Enjoy a weekend of puppet shows and storytelling at Chiltern Open Air Museum. Watch ‘A Dragons Tale’ puppet performance then meet the puppets and create a puppet theatre craft to take home. The
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performance and workshop is suitable for Families and Children aged 4+. www.coam.org.uk Sat 7 – Sun 8 Jul - White Hat Willis (SE10) Go along to Cutty Sark for this arts and crafts workshop and design a new hat for Cutty Sark’s owner, Jock ‘White Hat’ Willis, who was known for always wearing a white top hat. Enjoy an adventure on board the ship before taking your hat home with you. Ages 4+. www.rmg.co.uk Sun 8 Jul - Community Arts, Craft & Culture Fair (NW10) An amazing opportunity for independent Exhibitors from across the community to sell their work directly to the public, and for the public to support local Exhibitors all in the relaxed settings of Willesden library. This year’s Craft Fair will feature some 20 Exhibitors displaying their unique range of arts, crafts, accessories, therapies, foods, books, fashion and much more. A wonderful day out for the family! 11am - 4.30pm – free entry. www.brent.gov.uk Sun 8 Jul - Art In The Park (UB8) Following last year’s successful event, Hillingdon Artists return to the band stand in Fassnidge Park from 2pm, with their Arts In Action event, that lets children try out various craft activities, while listening to live music - this year from emerging UK rock group - Chasing Deer. The Rusty Bike Café will be open for refreshments. Take along your own chairs. www.hillingdon.gov.uk/artsinaction Sun 8 Jul – The Color Run (HA9) Dubbed ‘The Happiest 5k on the Planet’, this year is set to be ‘Marvel-lous’ as families and friends are invited to celebrate their favourite hero’s. Those taking part in the event held at London Wembley Park this summer, will run, jog and walk through coloured powder at each kilometre mark along the route. The fun continues
Chiltern Open Air Museum
beyond the finish line where runners can enjoy DJ’s, food, drink and amazing giveaways as they party with friends and family amidst vibrant bursts of color. www.thecolorrun.co.uk. Sat 14 July Little Academy Nursery & Pre-school Open Day/Fun Day (HA3) Fun for the whole family and 50% off the first two months of nursery fees if you sign up on the day! T&C’s apply www.thelittleacademy.co.uk Sat 14 Jul - Cheeki Monkeys
Baby & Children’s Market Watford (WD18) A Family Fun Day and Indoor Pop-up Baby & Children’s Market at Westfield Academy, Tolpits Lane, Watford, WD18 6NS from 12-2pm. Pre-Loved, Craft, Business, Entertainment Stalls. Buy/Sell children toys, clothes, equipment. Goody Bags for the first 50 visitors. Adult £1, Kids FREE. www.cheekimonkeys.co.uk Facebook @ CheekiMonkeysRickmansworthandWatford Continued on page 24
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What’s On Continued from page 23
Sat 14 Jul - Night Flight! Sleepover for Grownups (NW9) The RAF Museum is excited to offer a once in a lifetime chance to spend a night snoozing under the aircraft! Lucky ticket holders will spend a night at the museum, explore the exciting and innovative new exhibitions until the early hours of the morning. There will be workshops and open cockpit experiences, you will be able to watch films all night and take part in a midnight pub quiz. All before settling down under the Sunderland for a snooze. www.rafmuseum.org.uk Sat 14 Jul – Walk the Night (N1C) For those that want a bit of sightseeing combined with taking part in a worthy cause, the first-ever Walk The Night event is coming to London. Beginning and ending at Granary Square, King’s Cross, the event gives participants the opportunity to walk either a marathon (26.2 miles) or half marathon (13.1 miles) through London, taking in iconic landmarks to raise valuable funds for leading cancer charities Prostate Cancer UK and Breast Cancer Care. www.dream-challenges.com. Sat 14 - Sharpe’s Rifles (HP8) Be transported back in time to the Napoleonic era and meet Sharpe’s Rifles at Chiltern Open Air Museum. Meet Napoleonic soldiers and find out about the life of a Rifleman in Wellington’s army during the Peninsular War. Visit the living history encampment and learn how the soldiers’ families lived. At 3.30pm watch a thrilling display of military skill as the soldiers skirmish (please note that this will include gunfire). www.coam.org.uk
Sat 14 Jul – Sat 8 Sep - Summer Reading Challenge: Mischief Makers (various) There’s going to be a lot of mischief going on when the 2018 Summer Reading Challenge launches in Hertfordshire libraries this year! To celebrate the 80th Anniversary of the much-loved Beano, this year’s challenge is called Mischief Makers, and will centre round the adventures of the most infamous mischief makers of them all – Dennis and Gnasher! It’s an opportunity for children of all ages and abilities to develop their reading skills throughout the holidays. The challenge is free to take part in – All children need to do is visit their local library to collect a starter pack and complete their six books before 8th September. www.mischief-makers.org.uk Sat 21 Jul – TogetherFest (N12) TogetherFest is artsdepot’s annual celebration of creativity and community. Go along for a day packed with fun for young and old: Watch local artists and groups perform on the Community Stage, join in workshops, and explore the venue – games, performances, arts and crafts, book swapping and many more activities await! www.artsdepot.co.uk Sat 21 Jul - All aboard the DLR! (E14) Take a train journey on the Docklands Light Railway in this craft workshop at the Museum of London Docklands. Add to the giant train track and make your own paper train to drive along. www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-londondocklands Sat 21 – Sun 22 Jul - Family Festival of Flight (NW9) Go along to the RAF Museum for two days of family fun scattered throughout the fantastic newly landscaped London Museum site. Try on some flying clothes as worn by air crews of the past.
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Explore coding using Micro Bits. Try out craft activities and make something to take home. See a hot air balloon rise to the roof of the museum. Take up a flying challenge. Enjoy some familyfriendly storytelling. 11am-4pm. www.rafmuseum.org.uk Sat 21 – Sun 22 Jul - Classic Vehicles Show (HP8) A celebration of classic cars, motorbikes, boneshakers and tractors at Chiltern Open Air Museum. Go and admire an amazing collection of classic cars, lorries, traditional fire engines, motorcycles and historic bicycles. You will also be able to come and see a collection of historic tractors and wagons on the farm, which was once used for filming TV drama Downton Abbey. www.coam.org.uk Sat 21 Jul – Sun 2 Sep Parachute Summer (SW3) Inspired by the Special Forces: In the Shadows exhibition, the National Army Museum is running a series of fun filled activities for children of all ages throughout the summer holiday. From parachute making to camouflage and aerodynamics, participants will learn about the challenges of working in extreme conditions through a variety of specially designed drop-in and bookable workshops and activities. Which materials work best for your parachute? Will your toy soldier survive the drop, and what happens after you stick the landing? Suitable for ages 7+. www.nam.ac.uk Sun 22 Jul - Summer Festival 2018 (E2) Not to be missed! The V&A Museum of Childhood’s annual summer festival returns, whatever the weather, with a colourful mix of live entertainment right on your doorstep. The Museum will come alive with a buzzing programme of live music, dance, walkabout acts, designer stalls, food, face paints, henna, rickshaw rides, games and lots for kids to make and do. 11.30–16.30, free. www.vam.ac.uk/moc Sun 22 & Sun 29 Jul – Shipmates (SE10) Be inspired by the stories of exchange and connection in the Museum’s Traders gallery and work together to build the biggest piece of art the museum has ever seen in this creative workshop at the National Maritime Museum. A free drop in session for all ages. www.rmg.co.uk Mon 23 – Sat 28 Jul Archaeological Dig for Kids (HP8) Book your children in for an archaeological dig session at the Chiltern Open Air Museum. Spaces must be pre-booked. www.coam.org.uk Wed 25 Jul - Sat 1 Sep artsdepot Open 2018 (N12) artsdepot’s annual exhibition is a celebration of art and artists. The exhibition features work by both emerging and established artists. Many of the artworks selected for this diverse and vibrant exhibition are available to purchase. www.artsdepot.co.uk Thu 26 Jul – Thu 30 Aug – Creative Thursdays at Chiltern Open Air Museum (HP8) Every Creative Thursday visitors will have the opportunity to take part in Arts Award Discover. On these Thursdays the museum will play host to expert artists and traditional crafts people each offering creative activities for you to engage with and learn from. You will also have the opportunity to create a piece of artwork of your own to take home. www.coam.org.uk Fri 27 – Sat 28 Jul - Superhero Cinema (NW9) Go and enjoy superhero screenings at the RAF Museum this summer! Watch The Incredibles and Big Hero 6 underneath the Lancaster, one of the biggest Aircraft at the Museum which was once flown by RAF heroes. Don’t forget your superhero costumes! The screening is relaxed so you can choose to camp
Summer Reading Challenge: Mischief Makers on the floor with cushions and beanbags or sit on one of the chairs. www.rafmuseum.org.uk Sat 28 – Sun 29 Jul – Ragged Victorians (HP8) This is a unique opportunity to learn about the less savoury aspects of Victorian life in a fun, family-friendly environment at the Chiltern Open Air Museum! Meet costumed re-enactors – look out for shady characters including the rat catcher and his rats; street urchins; doctor (with real leeches!), rogues and vagabonds. This Ragged Victorians event is great for kids who are learning about the Victorians at school. www.coam.org.uk Sun 29 Jul - Tudor Brooches (HA2) Make a wonderful Tudor style brooch from clay and decorate it with an assortment of sparkling gems at Headstone Manor & Museum in Harrow. www.headstonemanor.org Sun 29 Jul - Big Jiveswing Festival (WD18) The Big JiveSwing Festival at Cassiobury Park is one of the UK’s largest FREE Jazz within the UK. It’s a great family day out with live cabarets, dance classes for children and adults and a vintage photo booth, all for FREE! Refreshments are available to purchase from the Cha Café, or take along your own picnic. Take blankets or chairs and be prepared for an afternoon of music, dance and fun! 1-6pm. www.watfordbigevents.co.uk Sun 29 Jul – Monstrous Children’s Festival (SE16) Over 7 fantasy worlds set in the award winning Printworks Complex, South London. For an affordable all inclusive ticket price - Go on what you want as many times as you want! www.monstrouscreations.co.uk Tue 31 Jul - Let’s Go! (SE10) Join the storyteller at the National Maritime Museum on an imaginary trip where you can climb, hike and swim your way across the world, traveling by using all your senses. 10.30am, 11.30am, 1pm & 2pm. Free, suitable for under 5’s.
August
www.rmg.co.uk
Wed 1 – Fri 31 Aug - Who are the Lousiest Londoners (EC2Y) It’s time to put the Romans up against the cockneys by taking part in a summer game where you can create your own London top trumpsstyle cards at the Museum of London. How will Victorian poo scavengers fair against medieval wee doctors and who will come out on…bottom!? Ask a member of staff when you arrive for your free game pack and don’t forget to ask one of the hosts any questions inspired by your exploring. This is a self-guided activity, so stop by anytime. www.museumoflondon.org.uk
Wed 1 – Wed 31 Aug - Styx, Stones and Roman Bones (E14) A Roman soul is stuck in modern London and needs your help to move on. Go and help them in this amusing interactive summer show at the Museum of London Docklands that explores how the Romans treated their dead. www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-londondocklands Thu 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 - Nordic Summer Family Days (E2) Go Nordic this summer at the V&A Museum of Childhood, and join in a series of family days, celebrating and inspired by the Century of the Child: Nordic Design for Children exhibition. Every Thurs at 11am-4pm, free, drop in for all ages. www.vam.ac.uk/moc Fri 3 Aug - The Big Bounce 2018 (WD17) Go along to Watford Colosseum for summer fun in their HUGE auditorium filled with softplay, bouncy castles, ball pits, giant balloons, music and lights! Recommended for Toddlers to 8 years old. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk Sat 4 Aug - Watford Short Film Festival 2018 (WD17) An exciting new opportunity for undiscovered film-makers across the UK and beyond to showcase their work. Open to an audience of avid film fans and film-makers alike, Watford Short Film Festival celebrates the best drama, factual and animated content. Taking place at the Pumphouse. www.filmfreeway.com/WatfordShortFilmFestival Sat 4 Aug - National Day of Stitch (SE10) Go along to Queen’s House between 10.30am-1.30pm and try your hand at Tudor-style stitching inspired by the Armada Portrait of Elizabeth I with the Blackheath Embroiders’ Guild. All materials will be provided. Suitable for all ages. www.rmg.co.uk Sat 4 – Sun 5 Aug - Rural Life (HP8) Learn about Rural Life around the site and farm at Chiltern Open Air Museum. Discover a range of traditional crafts, watch demonstrations of traditional crafts in and around the Museum’s historic buildings and site, and visit a selection of stalls selling traditional hand-made merchandise. www.coam.org.uk Sat 4 – Sun 5 Aug - Flotsam Weaving (SE10) Scouring the British coastline for flotsam, artist-in-residence Jo Atherton collects fishing line, netting and other orphaned objects to make beautiful pieces of art. Join her in this arts and crafts workshop at Cutty Sark, where she talks about her beachcombing activities and learn how discarded objects can be transformed into intricate prints and vibrant tapestries. 11.30am-1.30pm & 2-4pm. Ages 4+. www.rmg.co.uk
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What’s On In cinemas from 20th July www.thomasbwbamovie.co.uk
in the Iron Age at Chiltern Open Air Museum. “The Vicus” re-enactment society bring to life this fascinating period of history, illustrating daily life for people living in the Iron Age. Learn about life in the Iron Age for both the invading Roman forces and native British tribes and visit the Iron Age roundhouse to see how families lived in the Iron Age. www.coam.org.uk Sun 19 Aug - Summer Sunflowers (HA2) Celebrate the summer sunshine (hopefully!) at Headstone Manor & Museum by making a beautiful sunflower using pipe cleaners and card. www.headstonemanor.org Wed 22 – Thu 23 Aug - The Art of Macramé (SE10) Sailors made macramé objects during their leisure time at sea, and they sold or bartered them when they landed. Join the artist at Cutty Sark to learn about sailor knots and design your own macramé object. 11.30am-1.30pm & 2-4pm, ages 4+. www.rmg.co.uk
Sat 4 – Sun 19 Aug - Big Beach (WD18) The Parade in Watford will transform into the Big Beach for two weeks this Summer providing an energetic and vibrant day out with fun activities and games for all ages. The Big Beach is FREE - there is no need to book, just turn up and enjoy the beach life. Each day shells will be hidden in the sand and for every shell found a prize will be given! www.watfordbigevents.co.uk Sun 5 Aug - Midsummer Storytelling (HA2) Join storyteller Peter Chand as he tells the story and changes at Headstone Manor. Take a blanket to sit on and be prepared to join in! 11am, 12:30pm & 2pm. Free. Suitable for families of all ages. www.headstonemanor.org Sun 5 Aug – 15th Annual Kids’ Fun Fair at Canons Park (HA8) The Friends of Canons Park are aiming for another great turnout at their 15th annual Kids’ Fun Fair Day, running from 11am to 6pm.Activities will range from kids’ fun fair rides and the everpopular ‘fun’ dog show, to face painting, fun and games, music from the big brass band and free kids’ art activities. Entrance to the event is free, as are some of the family activities. There is a charge for fairground rides and stalls. www.canonsparkfriends.org Sun 5 – Mon 27 Aug – Summer Holidays at the National Maritime Museum (SE10) There are some great family activities taking place at the National Maritime Museum this August. Practice your dance moves at Deep Sea Dance Fever; enjoy listening to some Sea Stories; or join a parade around the galleries as you explore celebrations at Life’s a Party. See website for more details and dates/times. www.rmg.co.uk Mon 7 – Tue 28 Aug - The Tosher’s Tale (EC2Y) Join a Victorian ‘tosher’ at the Museum of London and hear how they used to hunt the sewers for treasure to sell on the streets of London. Be warned…tosher’s are a famously smelly bunch! www.museumoflondon.org.uk Tue 8 – Wed 9 Aug - Seaescape (SE10) Who knows what mysterious creatures lurk in the deep, dark sea?
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Go along to this arts and crafts session at Cutty Sark, and make an underwater hideaway for your sea creatures. 11.30am-1.30pm & 2-4pm. Ages 3+. www.rmg.co.uk Wed 8 Aug – Sun 2 Sep - The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and King Arthur (SE1) London’s best openair theatre returns to The Scoop for its 15th year this summer with new adaptations of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and King Arthur, offering unforgettable and totally accessible experiences in the heart of the city – completely free of charge! Audiences don’t need to book for any of the performances, and with 1000 seats available for each night there are plenty of chances to catch one or all of the shows throughout the run. All events are free and are accessed on a first come, first served basis. There is no need to register unless otherwise stated. www.freeopenairtheatre.org Fri 10 – Sat 11 Aug - Feathers and Flight (NW9) The Eagle has pride of place on the Royal Air Force’s badge and is just one of many birds that inspire the RAF everyday! Go along to the RAF Museum for a fun Feathers and Flight Trail and an opportunity to get close to some feathery friends! www.rafmuseum.org.uk Sat 11 – Sun 12 Aug - English Civil War (HP8) Go and meet the Soldiers and Officers of the English Civil War at Chiltern Open Air Museum. The Marquess of Winchester’s Regiment visit the site and reveal how the Officers, Soldiers and civilians lived during the English Civil War. Explore their encampment and discover the soldiers and officers tents, find out about the Regiments muskets, pikes, armour and artillery and discover the crafts and trades taking place. www.coam.org.uk Sun 12 Aug - Maple Lodge Nature Reserve Discovery Day (WD3) The reserve is one of Rickmansworth’s hidden secrets and is home to a rich variety of wildlife including waterfowl, woodland birds, bats and butterflies. Throughout the day guided tours of the reserve will be organised by members of the Maple Lodge Conservation Society. Light refreshments will be available all day and there
will also be plants, second-hand books and greeting cards on sale. 11am-4pm. www.maplelodgenaturereserve.org.uk Mon 13, Wed 15 & Sat 18 Aug Family Photography Day (SE10) This summer discover your inner photographer with SharpShots Photo Club and be inspired by the photography in the Great British Seaside exhibition at the National Maritime Museum. There’s a choice of three dates, each dedicated to either colour, landscapes or portraits. See the website for more information. www.rmg.co.uk Wed 15 – Thu 16 Aug - Model Magic Figureheads (SE10) Create your own fabulous figurehead using Model Magic to protect you from storms, sea monsters and sharks at Cutty Sark. 11.30am-1.30pm and 2-4pm. Ages 4+. www.rmg.co.uk Thu 16 Aug – Crime Scene Live (SW7) A priceless stone has been stolen from the Natural History Museum and a killer is on the loose. It’s up to you to gather the evidence, analyse the facts and carry out experiments to bring the criminal to justice. You and your team of sleuths will explore the Museum and use the science behind crime scene investigation and detective work to establish when, where and how the crimes occurred. You will be following one of three trails throughout the evening, each of which examines different aspects of the crime. At the end of the night the pieces of the puzzle will come together to reveal the full picture. www.nhm.ac.uk Fri 17 – Sun 19 Aug – Wild Child Festival (SE21) Wild Child is London’s newest boutique children’s festival – by mums and dads, for the whole family. Bringing together the very best in arts activities, workshops and performances by a wide range of companies, many founded by London mums and dads themselves, Wild Child offers an alternative to larger, commercial, brand heavy festivals. Suitable for ages 0 – 11 years. Taking place at the Trevor Bailey Sports Ground in Dulwich. www.wildchildfestivals.co.uk
Wed 22 – Sat 25 Aug - Cinema Under the Stars (HP8) This August Chiltern Open Air Museum will be hosting their first outdoor cinema brought to you by Neighbourhood cinema. Each film starts at 8.30pm and there will be a bar, BBQ, snacks and hot drinks available to purchase. Please note that you are not able to bring any of your own food or drink to this event. Take along your own picnic blanket and / or low chairs. Wed 22 Aug - La La Land; Thu 23 Aug - Back to the Future; Fri 24 Aug – Gladiator; Sat 25 Aug – Grease. www.coam.org.uk Sun 26 Aug – BushFest (WD23) With some of the hottest tribute acts performing, this is sure to be a brilliant day out for the whole family! There will be lots of activities, LIVE music, food & drink all ending in a MASSIVE firework display. Located locally at Bushey Sports Club on Aldenham Road. www.bushfest.co.uk Sun 26 – Mon 27 Aug Cassiobury Town and Country Show (WD18) The Show offers something for everyone - support small producers with some wonderful shopping experiences; watch and admire Rural Crafters demonstrating all day or why not enter your dog into the Dog Shows. Enjoy lunch listening to some up and coming musical talent. At Cassiobury Park from 11am-6pm. www.hertscountryshow.co.uk Sat 1 Sep - Big Sports (WD18) The FREE Big Sports will be returning to the Parade in Watford for a fifth year with a whole host of sporting and fitness activities for you to try out alongside health and wellbeing advice. Some exciting new additions to the day will include a zip line, cave adventures, rope-a-phobia and a palm tree challenge as well as various sports stands where you can practice your tennis, golf, rugby and karate. www.watfordbigevents.co.uk
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Sat 18 – Sun 19 Aug - Iron Age Life (HP8) Discover what it was like to live
Families North West London 25
What’s On
Rainy Day School Holiday ideas! By Claire Winter
T
he summer holidays will soon be here! While our children are looking forward to it, many of us parents are wondering how we are going to juggle work, play, and activities within our budget in a way that works for the whole family.
• Create a Smoothie
• Have a Kitchen Disco
• Try-out a New Board or Card Game or Activity book
Get the children to choose a playlist on Spotify, or from your music collection and have a kitchen dance-off. You could also get glow sticks and neon face paint and turn it into a glow party.
• Make a Play in a Day Dig out the dressing up and create a play or a Britain’s Got Talent-style show.
Buy some yummy fresh fruit and get your children to design fruit smoothies. They could come up with a name for their new concoctions and design some packaging for them too.
Whether you introduce a childhood favourite or try something new, games and activity books are a great way to bring fun for all ages to a dreary day.
• Learn a New Skill Encourage the kids to surf the web for educational reasons and research a new
skill they could learn like coding, plaiting hair, or juggling. YouTube is great for this but ensure parental settings are turned on!
• Share a Book together Reading and discussing books is a wonderful way to help children relate to and learn about themes and topics of social and historical importance -- and by sharing the reading, everyone gets a chance to enjoy being read to – even the adults!
• Have a Nerf or Laser War Get the neighbours involved and stock up on ammunition; my kids love to do this in the house or garden.
Indoor (or outdoor) Games and Activities for the whole family to share! The Laser X 2 Player Pack is available now and will be joined in June by the Laser X Long Range Blaster and Laser X Gaming Tower; just in time to play with during the Summer Holidays. (SRP £49.99)
Rubik’s Flip is the fast-moving strategy game for 2 players with only 8 moves per player! It sounds simple but is a challenge to master. The winner is the first player to place 3 tiles of the same colour in a row that cannot be flipped. RRP: £12.99 Rubik’s Battle card game is a quick-thinking, fastaction card game for 2-6 players. Be first to spot a unique colour match and win the cards. Collect all the Rubik’s Battle cards to win! RRP: £4.99
Superhero Lotto is a superpowered matching and memory game featuring four fun superheroes with special powers! RRP £7.75 www.orchardtoys.com Family favourite What a Performance has been given a fresh redesign and new improved gameplay, with over 300 fun challenges to perform! RRP £16.50 www.orchardtoys. com
26 Families North West London
Star Wars™ Maker Lab features 20 galactic projects use clear step-by-step instructions and easily sourced household items, the book guides home scientists and makers through a variety of experiments–from making Jabba’s gooey slime using PVA glue and baking soda, to an Ewok catapult using sticks and twine. £14.97 (Amazon) The latest book in Second Story’s Holocaust Remembrance Series for Young Readers based on a true story, When We Were Shadows by Janet Wees shines a light on a littleknown part of WWII history and the heroes of the Dutch resistance. £11.15 (Amazon) https://secondstorypress.ca/holocaustremembrance-series
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Mummy on the Edge Angelina and Midi-Me try to help.
F
ive years after joining high school, and still wearing the same sweatshirts I bought when she started (the arms are a bit short,) it’s almost time to move on because we are moving to North London. I pored over googlemaps wondering whether I had missed a facepalmingly obvious easy route but getting to her current school from there is too much palaver. While plodding along, experiencing the usual GCSE exam drudgery and some sadness at having to leave her beloved school, I’ve been extra kind and understanding, cooking Midi-Me’s favourite foods and watching old X Files episodes with her. At the same time I’m clearing the flotsam and jetsam of my past and sprucing the house up a bit before renting it out. My very ineffectual method involves walking zombie-like from room to room packing random things that we probably won’t use in the next few weeks in boxes and in no particular order. At the same time I’m looking at the house through a renter’s eyes. I’m applying the home deco equivalent of retinol serum to what I call home-acne that I have happily lived with for years but which someone looking for the first time might possibly be offended by. So I’m filling the gap in the side of the fireplace that doesn’t harm anyone and I couldn’t care less about. And replacing the missing long thing that attaches two floors together in a doorway. Apparently stuff like that matters. This GCSE/ house makeover zombitude feels like it’s NEVER going to end. I have found Unpleasant Things from times best forgotten. And Fun Things, like old school reports detailing my physical ineptitude (which provided Midi-Me with much needed mirth – was I really that hopeless at netball? Yes.) And copies of my old school magazine- I penned the horoscopes by Madame Semolina and the Ask Angie agony column! I’ve been bunging these Things in boxes and shoving them in the garage of the new house to deal with later. Because I’ve tried Marie Kondo-ing them and I just don’t have the emotional space to feel the feels right now okay, Marie? Anyway, there will be some sort of end point by which time everything will have been completed, probably, hopefully. A little bit of GCSE and house-move zombiness is really not the end of the world, in fact having a kid who has reached 16 without incident or accident is something to be very grateful for. I thought about this as I spent 10 minutes in Carters Chemist in Northwood filling out a simple form and wiggling a long double-ended cotton bud around my mouth and gums. I was there to do a swab test to see if I could donate stem cells. If you’ve been on social media or seen the papers or watched the news, you’ve probably heard about little Kaiya, the five year old girl from Northwood in North West London. Her family’s life was plunged into sudden turmoil a few weeks ago when they found out that she was suffering from a rare and very aggressive form of leukaemia which requires a stem cell transplant to get her well again. Some of the babies I used to teach Sing and Sign to are now in her class at school so I heard from their parents whom I’m still in contact with about the situation and my heart broke. There is a big shortage of Asian donors which makes her plight that much more desperate and she needs a donor within a month. Medical technology has moved on a lot. Over 90% of the time, stem cell donations are a super-simple process: Blood is taken from one arm, passed through a machine which isolates some of the stem cells and put back through the other arm. So it just takes 4 – 6 hours and no general anaesthetic is required. Midi-me wants to try too and donors can be between 16 and 55 years old. To find out more about Kaiya’s
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progress and how to do a swab test near you, visit facebook. com/curekaiya or search #curekaiya online. Or you can order a swab kit from www.dkms.org.uk if you are 17 - 55 or www. antonynolan.org if you are between 16-32. Spread the word!
“There is a big shortage of Asian (stem cell) donors which makes her plight that much more desperate…” 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
Families North West London 27
What’s On
What’s On Children’s Theatre
We couldn’t fit them all in! More online www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk
Compiled by Anna Blackshaw
We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check with the venue directly before setting out.
brand new adaptation of David Walliams’ acclaimed book, Mr Stink. The very kind, but lonely, 12 year old Chloe invites the homeless ‘Mr Stink’ and his dog to leave behind the wooden bench where they have taken up residence and secretly move into her family’s shed. Matters become more complicated when Chloe’s mother tries to take credit for Chloe’s generosity. And precisely who is Mr Stink, anyway? Go along for a brilliantly staged version of this warmhearted and funny story. Ages 6+
The Muppets Take the O2 The Alban Arena Civic Centre, St Albans 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk
Thu 5 – Sat 7 Jul - Bugsy Malone Gangster warfare in New York Dandy Dan’s hoodlums terrorise the district, exterminating undesirables with their new weapon splurge guns. His rival is Fat Sam Stacetto, who runs the Grand Slam Speakeasy, but Fat Sam’s gang still use old fashioned pies. Fat Sam engages the help of Bugsy Malone to escape from a frame up, but he learns later that Dandy Dan’s mob have splurged nearly all his gang. Dandy Dan prepares for a showdown at Fat Sam’s speakeasy, and when his mob burst in, Bugsy and the guys let ’em have it the works. Splurge, custard pies, flour bombs… Sat 21 – Sun 22 Jul Teletubbies Live! See the iconic, world famous Teletubbies in their first ever theatre show created especially for your little ones. Join Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po in a show full of love and laughter as they explore the magical world of Teletubbyland. Look out for the Tubby Phone, Noo-noo and Sun Baby in a fun, bright and safe world which captures young children’s imaginations and encourages them to explore the world around them. Join in and enjoy beloved features from the TV series along with brand new songs.
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Sat 11 – Sun 12 Aug - Beauty & The Beast The Alban Arena and Brilliant Theatre Arts are very pleased to present their next summer youth production, the famous fable Beauty and The Beast! Featuring original music and lyrics by Chris Passey & Nigel Passey and a hilarious book by Tom Whalley. From the creative team that brought you We Will Rock You in 2017, exciting plans are in place for this show which will guarantee a wonderful experience for its cast and a very entertaining visit to the theatre for the whole family! The Apollo Victoria 17 Wilton Rd, Pimlico, SW1V 0844 871 3001 www.theapollovictoria.com
Ongoing - Wicked Wicked tells the incredible untold story of an unlikely but profound friendship between two young women who first meet as sorcery students at Shiz University; the blonde and very popular Glinda and a misunderstood green girl named Elphaba. Their extraordinary adventures in Oz will ultimately see them fulfil their destines as Glinda The Good and the Wicked Witch of the West. With showstopping songs by Stephen Schwartz and adapted for the stage by Winnie Holzman from the acclaimed novel by Gregory Maguire, Wicked is an unforgettable musical that transports audiences to a stunningly re-imagined world of Oz, providing marvels beyond your imagination.
The Beck Theatre Grange Road, Hayes. 020 8561 8371 www.becktheatre.org.uk
Thu 23 – Sat 25 Aug - Bring It On - The Musical: Summer Youth Project Bitingly relevant, sprinkled with sass, and inspired by the hit film, Bring It On The Musical will take you on a high-flying journey filled with the complexities of friendship, jealousy, betrayal, and forgiveness. With a colourful assortment of characters, an exciting fresh sound and explosive choreography, this hilarious, universal story is sure to be everything you hoped for an nothing like you expected. Cadogan Hall 5 Sloane Terrace, London SW1X 020 7730 4500 www.cadoganhall.com
Sat 7 Jul - Encore: A Celebration of Music 2018 Featuring the Bands and Orchestras of Hillingdon Music Service. The Hillingdon Music Service takes its young musicians into the heart of London for their annual Encore concert at the prestigious Cadogan Hall. Chickenshed Chase Side Southgate N14. 020 8292 9222 www.chickenshed.org.uk
Wed 18 Jul – Sun 5 Aug - Mr Stink Following 2017’s rip-roaringly successful adaptation of The Midnight Gang, Chickenshed proudly presents a
Sat 21 Jul – Sat 4 Aug - Tales from the Thousand and One Nights A magic carpet of a show! Experience tales of wonder and magic, as words of imagination written in gold unfurl and fly before your very eyes. A cornucopia of adventures, travellers’ tales and exotic mysteries will all be revealed as Tales from the Shed re-imagines one of the world’s oldest and greatest story collections, with well-known tales spun afresh and new stories woven onto old patterns. With music, dance, puppetry and much, much more, there’s a 1,001 reasons to join in at this show! Ages 3-7yrs Wed 25 Jul – Sat 4 Aug Planet Play’s Thousand and One Days Especially recommended for very young children, join the Tales team for a fun and interactive sensory session based on the stories and fables from our main summer show, Tales from the Thousand and One Nights. This will be a brilliant and immersive opportunity for children to really get involved in true Tales from the Shed fashion! Ages 0-3yrs Harrow Arts Centre Hatch End HA5 0208 416 8989 www.harrowarts.com
Sun 15 Jul - Pirate Pearl and the Big Blue Monster Little Blue Monster present their brand new production – Pirate Pearl and the Big Blue Monster! Pirate Pearl lives aboard the good ship Mirabel with her crusty old shipmate – Grandpa Bert! She’s not a real pirate – but Pearl loves to imagine she’s sailing the seven seas on a swashbuckling pirate adventure! One day, Pearl finds a stowaway aboard ship. It’s a little blue monster. But little monsters grow into big greedy monsters – and this one wants his DINNER! There’s trouble ahead for Pirate Pearl! Mon 6 Aug - Peter Pan (Outdoor Theatre) Immersion Theatre invite you to soar away to Neverland as they proudly bring their trademark energy to their most magical musical to date, Peter Pan, to the beautiful Manor familiesonline.co.uk
What’s On
Little Angel Theatre 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross St, N1 020 7226 1787 www.littleangeltheatre.com
Until Sun 29 Jul - Sleeping Beauty in the Wood This adaptation of the story of Briar Rose by the Brothers Grimm conjures a dreamlike fantasy of palaces and forests, ogres and fairies, princes and babes. It tells the story of a King and Queen desperate for a child, and a fairy who grants their wish. But when the fairy is not invited to baby Rose’s christening, she casts a different kind of spell – on her 16th birthday, the young princess will prick her finger and everyone in the kingdom will fall asleep for 100 years. Only the arrival of a prince from the Far East brings hope of an awakening. This bold production spins puppets, projections, automata and live music to weave an irresistible magic. Ages 4-9 yrs Sat 13 Jul – Sun 5 Aug – Little Angel by the Sea Windbreakers, brollies and sandcastles! There’s no guarantee of a rain free summer in London, but the sun always shines at the theatre. Punch & Judy have been given a breath of salty sea air… Hang on, someone has stolen all the sausages!! Was it the crocodile with his gnashing jaw? The baby with her butter-wouldn’t-melt smile? Or was it someone else altogether? Little Angel by the Sea is a playful mix of sand play, puppet making and a whodunit mystery just perfect for children. Ages 3-9 yrs Lyric Theatre Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 7ES 0844 482 9674 www.nimaxtheatres.com
Wed 4 July – Sun 2 Sept - We’re Going On A Bear Hunt Direct from a smash-hit international tour, Michael Rosen’s awardwinning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in
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director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Join the intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure! Ages 3+ The O2 Arena Peninsula Square, London SE10 0208 463 2000 www.theo2.co.uk
Fri 13 – Sat 14 Jul - The Muppets Take the O2 The Muppets have announced their most sensational, inspirational, celebrational, muppetational, full-length live show in Europe for the first time ever! Based on their hit 1980s variety TV show, Kermit The Frog will once again lead an all-star cast in musical performances, sketches and more. Pump House Lower Watford High Street, Watford WD17 01923 241 362 www.pumphouse.info
Thu 3 – Sat 7 Jul – Honk Jr This is the delightful award-winning musical adaptation of the beloved Hans Christian Anderson ugly duckling fable. Ugly looks quite a bit different from his duckling brothers and sisters. The other animals on the farm are quick to notice and point this out, despite his mother’s protective flapping. Feeling rather foul about himself, the little fowl finds himself on an adventure of self-discovery, all the while unknowingly outwitting a very hungry Cat. Along the way, Ugly meets a whole flock of unique characters and finds out being different is not a bad thing to be. Puppet Theatre Barge
summer romance, but will it cross clique lines? Rare Productions youth theatre return with this popular story.
Sat 21 Jul - Sun 5 Aug (Richmond) - The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse These two famous mouse cousins take it in turns to visit one another. First the Town Mouse goes to stay with the County Mouse and has to face up to the unfamiliar world of the wild countryside. Then, the Country Mouse heads into town and has to learn to escape from the house cat and navigate the noisy city traffic. Each mouse ends up much the wiser as a result of their exciting adventures. A delight for young and old, told with rod puppets, music and sing- along songs.
Mon 13 - Thu 16 Aug - The Gruffalo’s Child One wild and windy night the Gruffalo’s Child ignores her father’s warning and tiptoes out into the snow. After all, the Big Bad Mouse doesn’t really exist... does he? Tall Stories returns, bringing Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s award-winning sequel to life in this magical, musical adaptation. Songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 3 and up and their grown-ups.
The Radlett Centre 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk
Fri 13 Jul – Rock For Heroes Are you ready to ROCK! Immerse yourself in the incredible new live music experience with Rock For Heroes. Bringing the perfect combination of your favourite Rock & Pop artists across the eras, in celebration of an incredible cause Help for Heroes. Performed by a full live rock band and superb singers, It’s the must see show of the year. With music from artists such as Dire Straits, Status Quo, Queen, David Bowie, Madonna, Spandau Ballet, Bryan Adams, Elton John, Simple Minds and so many more. You won’t see a bad wig here, this isn’t a tribute act this is simply paying tribute, the best way we can to the legends in music. Thu 19 - Sat 21 Jul - Grease It’s 1959 and Rydell High is filled with rebellious, thrill-loving students. in the midst of this scene, Sandy enters as the new girl in school. A wholesome exchange student and a leather-clad Danny have a
Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre Russet Drive, St Albans, AL4 01727 850950 www.trestle.org.uk
Tue 14 Aug – Sun 9 Sep Dinosaur World Live Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live in this interactive new show for all the family. Grab your compass and join the intrepid explorer across uncharted territories to discover a prehistoric world of astonishing (and remarkably lifelike) dinosaurs. Meet a host of impressive creatures, including every child’s favourite flesh-eating giant, the Tyrannosaurus rex, a Triceratops, Giraffatitan and Segnosaurus, to name a few!
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Illustrations © 1989 Helen Oxenbury from We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen
House garden at Headstone Manor and Museum. Filled with catchy music, heaps of audience interaction, a laugh-a-minute script, and the opportunity to meet the characters after the show, this hilarious and exciting musical of the boy who never grew up promises to have every member of the family entertained throughout…You’ll be HOOKED!
marionettes and shadow puppets, this is a magical show that will enchant both children and adults alike.
‘Ingenious’ Daily Mail
Little Venice W9 (During the summer the Barge is at Richmond, TW10) 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com
Until Sun 8 Jul (Little Venice) Wed 8 Aug – Sun 30 Sep (Richmond) - Red Riding Hood The much-loved story of Little Red Riding Hood is given a new and humorous twist in the tale, in this specially commissioned version by prize-winning author Deborah Jones. The Granny is arty but forgetful, Red Riding Hood is fearful but feisty and the Wolf as dark and mysterious as his forest. Using a combination of
Until 2 September BOOK TODAY bearhuntlive.com
Families North West London 29
Local Clubs and Classes Directory PARTIES Mini Maniacs are an Award Finalist Party Entertainment Business. Specialising in themed and non themed children’s parties for 1-9 year olds. From princesses to Discos, Bouncy Castles to Mascots, we have it all. Our reviews are outstanding and our entertainers are unbelievable. Book today to see the magic for yourself! 07711980132 rav@mini-maniacs.com www. facebook.com/theMiniManiacs www.twitter.com/theMiniManiacs www. mini-maniacs.com 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 BaB – Bring a Baby courses for adults. All Bring a Baby Courses are designed for you, the grown up, but are fun and engaging for your kids too. Their courses get 5* reviews because they make it possible for you to learn a new skill and be with your children. Photography, Knitting, Embroidery, Cake Decorating and more. www.bab-courses.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. Wed 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 Meditation Every second and fourth Thursday of the month, 8.00pm at the Stables, Eastcote House Gardens, Eastcote Village, HA5 2FE Feel energised, increase happiness, improve mental clarity and memory recall, flush out negative thoughts and improve physical and mental health. Ten minute stress relief treatment for newcomers.Cost: FREE (voluntary charity donations welcomed). No booking needed, all welcome. For more information contact Alexandra Barrett alexandrabarrett@me.com, 0775 334 90 24 Yogabellies Aquabellies (various) Beautiful water based yoga classes for women throughout their lives. The sessions incorporate 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 Zest For Life Studio is a new secret fitness oasis for vitality and wellness near you. Let me welcome you in my garden studio to share an invigorating hour of zesty fitness, a unique programme of toning circuit & zumba: enjoy a variety of class at 9am, a personal touch, small group of 6-8. In&outdoor classes. marion.bignone.zumba.com - zestforlifestudio@gmail.com
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
30 Families North West London
Directory editor – Anna Blackshaw Listings@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk
The Northwood Speech and Language Therapy Practice (HA6) An Independent Practice providing an exceptionally high quality, caring and individualised service for promoting the communication needs of children. We offer Speech and Language Therapy sessions within a modern clinic base, nurseries and schools. 01923 824 074 07956 994721 www.northwoodpractice.co.uk 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 Guju Tots Swagatham! Kem Chho? Come along to a FREE taster of these funfilled 45 minute classes in NW London to help kids 6 months to 5 years learn Gujarati through songs & stories! Interactive, relaxed classes, plus plenty of material to practice at home! 07956 385 316 www.gujutots.co.uk
Outdoor Forest School Sessions for Parent and Toddlers and Home Educators starting in Oxhey Woods in January every Monday. Children are introduced to the wonders of the woodland through play, song, story telling, craft and practical skills. For more information Emma on 07900 215512 or www.forevergreenforestschool.com
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
HEALTH AND WELLBEING Wellbeing Kids Workshops (WD3) Well-being workshops for children aged 9-12yr and 13-17yr olds. Holiday masterclasses to support the holistic mind, body and spirit learning. By exploring emotional intelligence, imagination, yoga, mindfulness, role-play and many more creative/outdoor activities.For more information, please contact Anita 07956 849614, wellbeingkids@ gmail.com
Massage & Yoga Human Values Based Yoga After school classes run in Harrow by a qualified yoga teacher with over 40 years yoga experience and over 30 years teaching yoga in various settings, including adult education and family learning, community clubs, hospitals and mental health centres. For adults and children 6-11 years. Joyce on 07912 879 103 joycedpower@aol.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 mths) YogaBellies Little Angels pre-school yoga (18 mths to 4 yrs): Sat mornings, Bushey YogaBelliesKidz family yoga (children 4-12 yrs): Sat & Sun mornings, Bushey NEW: YogaBelles Mum and Daughter (13-16 yrs): Weekday evening, Bushey 07840 904887 anjli@yogabellies.co.uk; www.yogabellies.co.uk/ members/anjli
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 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 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.rumble-tumble.com The Windmill Studio Centre (HA4) An exciting activity centre that has just about everything to offer for all ages from babies to adults including classes, courses, complementary therapies and room & studio hire. 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 yrs 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 Diddi Dance Harrow & North Hillingdon (various) 2018 marks 15 years since diddi dance, the much-loved national dance classes for little ones, launched its first class in Islington, London. To celebrate, diddi dancers & their friends are invited to don their best party attire and attend special party themed dance classes filled with dancing props, games, balloons, bubbles and much more! From 4th to 10th June 2018. diddi dancers old and new are welcome to attend any of the special party classes during the week in their party best and help us wish diddi dance a happy 15th birthday! 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! hilda@mini-maniacs.com 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. 020 8427 6595 www.monkeymusic.com
SPORTS AND EXERCISE All Stars Cricket Gives boys and girls aged 5-8 the chance to play, learn great skills and make new friends! 8 week course starts May 2018. www.allstarscricket.co.uk 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. 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 0333 334 0845 or 07763746886 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! 0333 334 0845 or 07763746886 www.enjoy-a-ball. com northlondon@enjoy-a-ball.com 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 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 Kaishi Karate School has classes for children and adults. Karate helps in all sorts of positive ways. First class is free. www.kaishikarate34.com for more info or call Sheena 07875501674 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 London Academy of Gymnastics and Dance (LAGAD) Wembley and across North London (N2, N3, N8, N10, N14, N15, N20, N22, NW11, HA9). Quality, fun and safety conscious classes with fully-trained, highly-qualified coaches. Classes for youngsters from 3.5 years through to advanced levels. Wembley club opens for the summer term in a brand new Sports Hall at the Ark ElvinAcademy (HA9). Wembley Classes for ages 3.5 to 11 years (up to Year 6), all abilities welcome. Holiday Camps, Birthday Parties and Adult Ballet (N10) also available. LAGAD aim to inspire and ignite a passion. www.lagad. co.ukinfo@lagad.co.uk 0208 883 4675 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) SportsKids Academy provide 4 -16 year olds with an exciting and educational sports programme at weekends. We encourage and develop young people to grow as athletes and individuals. We have an extensive programme of team and individual sports as well as weekly team building challenges. ALL CHILDREN participate in a wide range of different sports , grow in confidence through leadership skills and have fun making lots of new friends. Their programme includes; American Football, Dodgeball, Handball, Basketball, Rugby, Softball, Gaelic Football, Rounders, Athletics, Cricket, Gymnastics, Tennis, Fencing, Lacrosse, Archery, Netball, Volleyball, Martial Arts, Football, Badminton, Hockey, Orienteering and Golf. 01923255099 sportskids@outlook.com www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk
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Local Clubs and Classes Directory TISKA (HA1/9) Learn the fascinating art of Karate. Classes held in Wembley and Harrow. Families welcome, minimum age 4 yrs. 07739 572487 patel. karate@icloud.com www.tiskakarate-harrow.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
Swimmimg 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. 01923 245 772 www.aqua-vie.com or email office@aqua-vie.com Brent Dolphins (NW10/HA0) Swimming lessons for children 5 years and over at Willesden and Vale Farm. Sessions are held in a fun and friendly environment from beginner to competitive swimming level.Further details are available on our website www.brentdolphins.org.uk or you can email our Club Secretary at: info@brentdolphins.org.uk . Splashtime Swim School (various) Swimming lessons, Holiday clubs and After school club held at Quainton Hall 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 & Agency (HA4) Truly like no other, with classes available in dancing and drama from 2.5 years – adults, male and female plus an incredibly busy Agency that is always looking for new recruits for TV, films and commercials! 01895 624755 www.jam2000.co.uk 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, www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk or call 020 8447 4530. Huzzah Performing Arts & Mindfulness - Huzzah have created a superhero blend to build confidence from the inside out. Drama, dance, singing and a touch of mindfulness. Ages 4 - 11. Weekend classes in Harlesden & West Hampstead. Sign up for a FREE TRIAL at www.huzzahperformingarts.com. Creative, calm, confident kids. Italia Conti Ruislip (HA5) Performing Arts School for 2yrs to adult, Haydon School Eastcote. ISTD Ballet, Tap and Modern, Street dance, Break Dance, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Singing, LAMDA, acting, Gymnastics, Lyrical. Call or email for a Free Trial 20 8838 8747 info@italiacontiruislip.co.uk www. italiacontiruislip.co.uk Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-12s 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. Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions.Visit www. perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class today. Venues: Croxley Green, Eastcote (Pinner), Harrow, Kensal Rise, Northwood, Pinner, Queens Park, Rayners Lane, Stanmore, Wembley, plus a new class starting in Ickenham. Contact: 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 3-21 attend weekly classes in preparation for full scale Musical Theatre productions. 01923 437693 www.SharpeAcademy.co.uk 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 Harrow Theatre Dance & Pinner Theatre Dance (HA) Ballet, Modern, Tap and Street Dance. In Harrow, Pinner and Ruislip. ISTD qualified teachers and exams. Classes for children aged 3+. Adult tap and ballet also available. Text: 07804 910 551 Info@HarrowTheatreDance.co.uk Info@PinnerTheatreDance.co.uk 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
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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 Mon–Thurs 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 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
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 teaching Art techniques in a relaxed environment for kids aged 5+, 8+, 11-18. Give them time to be creative and use their imagination with weekly term time classes and holiday in Ruislip and Eastcote with public or small group class types available. Home schooled kids private classes available and adult beginner classes run during the weeks too if you are looking for a little bit of “me time”. With special members benefits, sibling discounts and special events, there’s never been a better time to book. Book now and let them develop a love of Art that will last a lifetime! Contact Suzi at blankcanvasartclub@gmail.com, 07773 819 603 www.Facebook.com/BlankCanvasArtClub 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 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. stitch. club E: sam@stitch.club
AFTER SCHOOL CLUB/EDUCATION SUPPORT 1Point4Teacher (HA) Do you have a child in KS1 and KS2? 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. English tuition on Mondays and Tuesdays, covering reading comprehension and SPAG (spellings, punctuation and grammar) with math lessons on a Wednesday. Harrow, 5 minutes from Kenton Library. www.1Point4Teacher.co.uk or email the Head Tutor Mrs Edwin on info@1point4teacher.co.uk 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 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 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) Saturday in Term Time adjacent to Field End Junior School, Field End Road, Eastcote, HA4, for children aged 5 – 11 yrs. Join the friendly team of British Cycling Coaches at 9.15am and learn fun skills, race on the amazing fully enclosed Cycle Track, make new friends and enjoy a whole morning of fun till 11.30 - (refreshment break half way through). All you need is your own bike, helmet, gloves, water bottle and a shower proof jacket. Contact Tracey at fieldendflyers@gmail.com 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 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 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 Karen Wilkin Tuition (HA) 4+/5+ tuition. One to one, tailor made, hands-on, fun sessions in the comfort of your home. Experienced Montessori teacher with excellent results in all the top schools. Term time and holiday sessions available. 07887 984 401, wilkin@afrormosia.com Knowledge Above Standard (HA7) Maths, English, Verbal and non-verbal reasoning, 7+, 11+ 13+ exam preparation. 07985 588 085 www.knowledgeabovestandard.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 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 Love 2 Learn (HA) Experienced Primary School teacher and tutor for year 1 to year 6 in Pinner. 11-12 week session taught in small groups. Topics include Creative Writing, Mental Maths, Persuasive Writing, Public Speaking and Cross Curriculum Education. Mrs S Mukhtar. 07958 728184 lovetolearncreatively@gmail.com Lumilie’s Learning World (HA) New Children’s Educational/Developmental Classes for 2yrs-5yrs. Dynamic approach of interactive Musical Activities, igniting children’s senses to a world of multiple learning opportunities. Expanding curious minds through language, communication, education and creative experiences for holistic growth. Classes at Harrow Arts Centre - Call Andrea 07914 953123 to book your FREE TRIAL. www.lumilieslearningworld.com Mastermind Tuition (HA) Specialists in 11+. Maths, English, Verbal and NonVerbal, Grammar & independent School Preparation. £15 per session. Classes in Harrow and Northwood. 075 10 10 50 50. www.mastermindtuition.com Math’scool Award-winning Maths Tuition plus out-of-lesson homework support. 0333 12 33 445 www.mathscool.com Number Works ‘n’ Words (Eastcote) 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 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. Improve reading age by 1 year in 3 months of home based work. The computer interventions is similar to having a tutor in your home with daily monitoring and feed back. Usha Patel on 07766 837 616 info@ravivpracticelondon.co.uk (registered therapist) 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 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.
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