Families NW London Magazine issue 107 May/June 2016

Issue 107: May/June 2016 www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

FREE North West London Including North Middlesex, South Hertfordshire, North Hillingdon, Brent and Harrow (Queens Park, Wembley, Edgware, Stanmore, Northolt, Northwood, Watford and all the areas in between)

Summer Camps and Childcare Escape with the Family to Salford Quays!

WIN! Tickets to see Tall Stories’ The Gruffalo live in the West End! How many mice can you spot in this issue? see page 31 for details

PLUS FNWL107.indd 1

Open Days, What’s On and much more inside!

29/04/2016 12:03

FNWL107.indd 2

29/04/2016 12:04

Welcome to the May/June issue!

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

www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

IN THIS ISSUE: 4 News 7 Family Travel 8 Schools Open Days 12 Brain engaging summer activities

www.facebook.com/ FamiliesNWLondon @FamiliesNW Circulation 30,000+ copies every issue.

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

16 Summer Camps and Activities 2016 22 Childcare 26 What’s On

UPCOMING ISSUES: July/August 2016: What to do with the Kids this SUMMER! Deadline: 23rd May 2016.

Cover image: Depositphotos.com

September 2016: Clubs/Classes and Activities and Back to School! Deadline: 10th August 2016 Send in your news, stories and advertising bookings to the details left.

Feature images used under license from depositphotos.com.

Other images have been supplied by independent sources.

Trending articles on the FNWL website: ▲ 11+ Preparations

Scan our QR code to take you straight to the most current local information!

▲ Holiday Camps ▲ Competitions ▲ Travelling with Kids

www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

Families North West London Upcoming Issues July/August 2016

September 2016

What to do with the Kids this SUMMER!

Clubs/Classes and Activities and Back to School!

Push & Glide Swimming School provide extremely high standards of swimming instruction, we pride ourselves on our friendly, dynamic teaching environment.  � � � � �

Children’s low-ratio group lessons Children’s private lessons 1-2-1 & 2-2-1 Adults group lessons Adults private lessons 1-2-1 & 2-2-1 P & G Shark Swimming Squad Crash Courses

t: 07749554405 e: swim@pushandglide.co.uk

www.pushandglide.co.uk

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

FNWL107.indd 3

3

29/04/2016 12:05

NEWS Your Local Families Area is Recruiting!

Opportunity with Families Online in North West London!

We are preparing to celebrate the launch of a fantastic new website this summer. Destined to become the NUMBER 1 resource for local families, www.familiesonline.co.uk will soon have over 300 local sites across the UK. Like our magazines, the local sites in North West London are guaranteed to give users the very best ideas for spending time with their family locally.

We have a number of highly flexible, home-based work opportunities available for independent Area Managers to run local sites. As an Area Manager you will enjoy a fun and flexible self-employed role which fits around you and your family life, whilst affording you a great challenge – and the opportunity to make money! There are no set up costs involved; you will be trained by industry experts and you will develop valuable new skills in the digital, print and social media marketing industry.

You Should Be:

Throw your own street party to celebrate the Queen’s birthday!

Families are encouraged to organise their own street party in honour of the Queen’s 90th birthday on June 11th. Oakman Inns and Dr Rob Schafer have launched a website www.ourstreetparty.org, to help people organise their own events to meet their neighbours and allow children to play outside, free from traffic fears.

If you are interested in organising your own Street Party or getting involved with one, visit www.ourstreetparty.org where you can sign up to receive a free information pack, join a meeting or call 01442 332 603.

Knit for Peace in Hampstead!

Knit for Peace is setting up a knitting drop-in group in Hampstead, upstairs at Waterstones, every Tuesday 9.30 to 11.30am and 2.30 to 4.30pm.

Knit for Peace is a charity that matches knitters with good causes.

Find patterns and charity information on their website www.knitforpeace. org.uk or follow on Facebook and Twitter to get information about events and specific campaigns such as the ongoing Refugee Appeal sending warm clothes and blankets to people in refugee camps in Kurdistan, Syria and Greece.

For more information contact knitforpeace@charitiesadvisorytrust. org.uk or call 020 7794 9835

✓ Enthusiastic and knowledgeable about what’s on locally for families ✓ Interested in working flexibly from home at times that suit you ✓ Online savvy and a regular user of Facebook, Twitter and other social media platforms ✓ Able to write great articles which capture the imagination of local families ✓ Have good networking and communication skills, and confidence when speaking to customers/the public ✓ A motivated self-starter who takes ownership and pride in your work Responsibilities Posting daily online and on social media with great ideas for your readers Populating and updating your site with useful and timely local content for families. Marketing and selling your site to local businesses and families Building relationships with your clients and users and helping them get the most from your site To register your interest, please email Heather Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

Brand-name change for Jaderberg Krais Jaderberg Krais educational consultancy and tutoring company will now be known as JK Educate.

The name has changed but everything else - including the bespoke service and the commitment to keeping the child as the priority - remains the same. Katie Krais, co-founder of the company, says: “We think that JK Educate will be easier for everyone to to pronounce, spell and remember, as well as clearly saying what it is we do!”

JK Educate specialises in tailor-made support for children’s learning, including schools advice, child assessments, specialist subject tutoring, preparation for entrance exams and interviews, and helping with study skills. www.jkeducate.co.uk

Tell them you saw it in

Magazine!

Open Day - Saturday 21st May 10am to 12 noon!

Special Open Day offers available!

4

FNWL107.indd 4

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

29/04/2016 12:06

NEWS Do your children love horses?

The Unique Art Awards Championing Disability:

During school holidays visit The Equine Assisted Education & Therapy Centre for London at The Edge Stables HA8. The centre is run by two sister charities, Learning Through Horses and Strength In Horses, working together to provide therapy and education services for vulnerable young people and adults.

They also work with the wider community, offering a range of experiential days: Pony Days enabling children to spend the day working with horses, developing vital life skills, having fun and learning about themselves. Social Horse Camp – supporting children 11+ with social and communication difficulties to form new relationships and learn to work collaboratively.

Other services include: Children with Autism Sessions; Individual Equine Assisted Therapy sessions; Family Therapy Sessions; Prince’s Trust Accredited Employability Skills Programmes; Therapeutic Work Experience Programmes.

For more information, or to find out about their next Pony Days or Social Horse Camp contact Rosie Edwards on (M) 07717 497 366 ; rosie@learningthroughhorses.org www.equineeducationandtherapy.london

Calling all aspiring young writers!

Is your child excellent with words? Do they like telling stories? Or do you want to encourage their creativity? Well it’s time for them to put pen to paper because the National Young Writers’ Awards have returned for the eighth year! Judged by bestselling author of the Charlie & Lola, Clarice Bean and Ruby Redfort books, Lauren Child and organised by tuition provider Explore Learning, this year’s theme is ‘The Mash-Up’ where children are asked to write a 500 word story of a ‘mash-up’ of two genres. Whether it’s an alien landing his spaceship in Victorian England or a Disney princess as a zombie slayer, there is huge scope to let their imaginations run wild!

Finding Britain’s Undiscovered Young Artistic Talent April saw the launch of an exciting new initiative to champion the artistic talents of some of Britain’s brightest disabled youngsters. The first ever Unique Art Awards (UAA 2016), the brainchild of the Mouth and Foot Painting Artists (MFPA) Trust Fund for Training of Handicapped Children in the Arts, will celebrate five artistic mediums and encourage under 21s with disabilities, across the land, to unleash their creativity.

The awards will feature five different categories (Painter, Photographer, 3D Sculptor, Poet and Musician) – all under the subject ‘My World’ resulting in a truly multi-disciplinary collection of artworks from some of Britain’s most talented young disabled artists. The competition is only open to entrants under 21 yr old who are currently living with a disability. Entries accepted until 31st July 2016. www.uniqueartawards.uk

The competition is free to enter and your child could win a fabulous family trip to Disneyland and £500 worth of books for their school. Open to children aged 14 and under, the closing date is June 7th. Children can fill out an application form at their local Explore Learning Centre or enter online at www.explorelearning.co.uk/ youngwriters

Calling Ruislip women who love to sing!

Capital Connection Chorus (female A capella harmony) Particularly need lower range voices at present. Perfect way to meet new friends and sing with a great group of women. Every Wednesday night 7.45pm to 10.30pm at Ruislip Community Centre.

For more information: www.capitalconnection.org.uk

Families NW London Magazine is distributed to over 30,000 families.

To advertise YOUR BUSINESS with us, call: 01923 237 004 email: Editor@ FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

FNWL107.indd 5

5

29/04/2016 12:06

Mummy on the Edge Angelina and Midi-Me change their mindsets.

A

s a kid watching telly, I would get very excited whenever I saw an Asian person on the television. I’d make a quick lap to the foot of the stairs and back to shout, “Indian person on the telly!” so that my sisters and parents could share the thrill.

On BBC 2 on Sunday mornings they used to show an English language teaching programme. One day they featured an Indian lady learning to drive; hitting the breaks suddenly, nearly whiplashing herself and her instructor in the process, she learned the invaluable phrase “Oof! Vut vent rung?” (Nope, not offensive when I do it.)

With the achingly cringeworthy Desi Rascals enjoying 2 primetime seasons, you would think that I’d be over it by now.

But no. Seeing an Asian on the telly STILL manages to press my novelty button and I now subject Midi-Me to my compulsion. If we are zapping channels on a Saturday night and an Asian name appears at the bottom of the screen in the XFactor programme info, are you kidding? Of course, we HAVE to watch it.

Same went for a Ted talk that flashed up on my facebook feed. Teach girls bravery, not perfection says the founder of Girls Who Code, Reshma Saujani Everything in the description made me want to watch this immediately. Also… INDIAN!!! I have put a link to this talk on my facebook page; it’s well worth a watch. It came at a timely moment because Midi-Me and I had just been to a talk by Robin Launder (behaviourbuddy.co.uk) all about Mindset Theory which stems from the research work of psychologist Carol Dweck. It’s about prioritising bravery over perfection when it comes to the education of our kids.

Dweck’s work has highlighted the difference in achievements between those with a growth mindset and those with a fixed mindset. If you have a fixed mindset, you believe that people are born with a certain level of intelligence that cannot be changed.

If you have a growth mindset, you believe that intelligence can increase. When we praise children for being clever, this fosters in them a fixed mindset which discourages them from taking risks (eg harder work) because of the fear that they will fail and show themselves to be not so clever after all. By contrast, when we praise children for their efforts, it encourages a growth mindset which makes them want to work harder and improve themselves for the joy of learning things that they haven’t mastered YET. I have tried to synthesize this HUGE subject into a single paragraph. There’s a lot more to it. I will put up some other

6

FNWL107.indd 6

links on my facebook page that explain more about Mindset Theory for it is not an overstatement to say that this talk has changed my life.

I now believe I can create new neural paths in my brain by using the Italian in a Month app on my phone every day. I now understand better why I am the way I am and how the way I am affects Midi-Me… She is loving learning to code at school and of course I’m hoping she’ll design some amazing app that will make us her rich and pre-pay her way through university. In the mean time, she’s providing feedback on someone else’s really useful app.

Isn’t it strange how things appear just when you need them? I was encouraging Midi-Me to create a revision timetable for her forthcoming exams when up popped a facebook status update from someone I went to primary school with, announcing her creation of a free app called Study M8 that does just that. You enter the subjects, topics, time available and priorities and it works it all out for you. Genius! Midi-Me and I suggested scheduling reward activities too. While we were downloading Study M8, we found another free app called Gojimo that provides self-tests for loads of subjects covering 11+, 13+, GCSE and A Levels. It even covers different examination boards.

IF I had not spent so much time in front of the box scanning for Indians; IF I had known about growth mindsets; IF there were such things as apps to help me study; IF. I might at this point in my life be giving a Ted Talk myself, instead of sitting here saying “IF”. With my new growth mindset however, I know it’s not too late; there’s still time to learn to be brave.

More at www.mynotesfromtheedge.blogspot. com and www.facebook.com/angelina.melwani and twitter at @appleina

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

29/04/2016 12:06

Family Travel

BREAKAWAY FROM THE USUAL… Old Trafford, Salford Quays

By Angelina Melwani

W

hen the opportunity arrives for a short holiday, you can’t beat a UK city break as the easy, all-weather option with something for everyone.

Take Manchester, which offers the cool, cultural quarter of Salford Quays to keep you and the family as busy or as relaxed as you want to be. The picturesque and buzzing waterside setting is home to several hotels including the budget friendly Copthorne Hotel Manchester which is a great base and ideally located, just a short hop from local attractions and a tram stop.

At the heart of Salford Quays is The Lowry, an arts centre which houses two theatres and a gallery space. Take in a family show or just stop by for a family friendly meal at the fancy Pier Eight restaurant and admire the architecture.

The large, modern and distinctive building is characterized by its curved glass and metallic surfaces on the outside and fantastic bright colours on the inside; it’s a sight to wonder!

For an alternative view of the city, and if there’s a Manchester United superfan amongst you, how about a barge trip down the waterways winding up at Old Trafford for an official tour? These extra

special tours need to be booked on the Manutd.com website but Manchester City Cruises who run the barges offer their own Sunday Lunch and Afternoon Tea cruises too, if football’s not your thing.

Don’t forget that MediaCityUK at Salford Quays is the new home of the BBC and now hosts Match Of The Day, Blue Peter, A Question Of Sport, BBC Breakfast and of course CBBC. They offer a 1 and a half hour kid-centric interactive tour (bookable online in advance) especially for children aged from 6- 11 with a chance to read the news and present the weather.

Perfect for your budding One-Show presenters.

Lastly, if you’re a holiday bargain hunter, Salford Quays won’t disappoint; at the Lowry Outlet, monthly waterside food and craft markets provide a scenic setting for some retail therapy. The outlet is chock full of brand names with plenty of restaurants to rest your shopped-out feet along the way. If that’s not enough, there’s also a cinema so you and the kids can catch the latest family flick!

If you’ve a weekend or couple of nights over half term to treat your kids, Salford Quays packs a great punch in the family break stakes – passports not required!

Stoke City

Media City, Salford

Quays

Useful Websites: www.thequays.org.uk www.facebook.com/VisitTheQuays www.lowryoutlet.co.uk/ www.manutd.com/en/Visit-Old-Trafford. aspx www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours/tours/ cbbc_interactive www.millenniumhotels.co.uk/specials/askalfred.html

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

FNWL107.indd 7

7

29/04/2016 12:07

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

Listings are subject to change.

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

Open Day: Sat 18 Jun, 10am-12.30pm. Prep School 01923 851664. Senior School 01923 858122

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

Open Day: By appointment 0208 427 1471

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

Open Day: 29th June 9am- 5pm call 020 8960 5899 to register

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

Open Morning: Fri 27 May, 10am-12pm. 020 89043615

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

Open Day: Wed 8 Jun, 9.30-11.30am. 020 8866 2737.

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

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8266 1700

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

Open Day: Sat 8 Oct: Jun Sch 10am-12.30pm; Sen Sch 2-5pm.

020 8266 2302 email ldevine@habsgirls.org.uk

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

Open Day: By appointment. 01923 681103

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

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8515 9400

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

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8381 3344

Mariposa Primary School (opening Sept 2017) Harrow HA8 Boys and Girls 4-11 yrs www.mariposaprimaryschool.org.uk

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

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

Open Day: Sat 7 May 2016 (Rickmansworth Campus) Fri 7 Oct 2016 (Northwood Campus) 01923 825648 (Rickmansworth) 01923 845514 (Northwood)

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

Open Day: Thu 5 May; Fri 20 May, 9.45-11.30am. Jun Sch 020 8952 1276, Sen Sch 020 8951 6481/6468.

Northwood College Northwood HA6. Girls 3-18 yrs. www.northwoodcollege.co.uk

Open Day: Tue 28 Jun, 9.30-11am; Sat 1 Oct, 9.30am-1pm.

01923 825446.

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

Open Day: Sat 7 May 2016 10am-12pm. 020 8869 7634/7600

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

Open Day: Fri 6 May, 9am-2pm. Sat 17 Sep 2016, 10am-12:30pm. admin@quaintonhall.org.uk 020 8861 8861

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

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8866 0660

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

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8422 2092

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

Open Day: By appointment. 01923 725354

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

Open Day: By appointment. 020 7932 1178

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

Boarding/Day. www.spsch.org

Open Day: By appointment 01923 673268

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

Open Morning: By appointment. 020 8902 5069

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

Open Day: By appointment. 01923 255 017

St Helen’s School Northwood HA6. Girls, 3-18 yrs. www.sthn.co.uk

Open Day: Wed 22 Jun, 9.30am-12pm. Sat 24 Sep, 9.3011.30am 01923 843230

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

Open Day: Fri 20 May, 9-11am. 0208 950 1751

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

Open Day: Wed 25 May 2016, 9.15am. 020 8866 0067

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

Open Day: Thu 5 May, 9.30am-12pm. Sat 24 Sep, 9.15am12.30pm 020 8901 0872

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

Open Day: Fri 10 & Sat 11 Jun, 10am-12pm. 01923 825 740

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

Open Day: Fri 20 May; Fri 24 Jun. 020 8205 7153

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

Open Day: Sat 7 May; Sat 1 Oct; all 9.30am-12pm. 01923 772 395

8

FNWL107.indd 8

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

29/04/2016 12:07

An exceptional school

St Helen’s

Independent School Open Education Days

OPEN MORNING Wednesday 22nd June 2016 9.30am – 12.00pm Please telephone 01923 843230 to make an appointment to visit us

St Helen’s School An Independent Day School for Girls aged 3-18 Eastbury Road, Northwood, HA6 3AS For more information contact: admissions@sthelens.london or call 01923 843230

www.sthelens.london/visit-us

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

FNWL107.indd 9

9

29/04/2016 12:07

Education

Getting organized (for success!)

A

s proven by the phenomenal global success of the Konmari* tidying method, the joy of being truly organised can be a powerful thing. Being prepared and organised is also the key to avoiding panic and anxiety about homework, assignments and exam revision.

dividers for different topics, so that notes and handouts can be filed after each lesson and won’t pile up. It sounds trivial, but having a full supply of stationery to hand can make all the difference and avoids wasting time searching for highlighters or the hole-punch!

The basics

Revision specifics

A weekly planner for homework and projects or assignments is a vital organizational tool for any student. Using different colours to highlight which work has a short deadline or is a longer-term project can enhance the effectiveness of recording deadlines. The planner should also include regular events such as hockey practice and one-off events such as concerts that might interrupt usual study times, so that these can be taken into account in planning the weekly workload.

Students need a work area where they will be uninterrupted and comfortable.

The kitchen table may be fine for an only child, but it’s usually better to find a quieter place that’s dedicated to studying and has everything they need laid out. It’s important to keep a file for each subject, with section

It’s a good idea to start revision early and make a realistic timetable: ideally a daily plan of work, broken down into subject areas. Help with organizing revision into manageable sections for 30 minute revision sessions is available online, e.g. the BBC Bitesize site. It’s helpful to build in some daily variety between topics, as well as remembering to build in mealtimes, leisure activities and very frequent short breaks during study.

The right tools can help a lot in being organised. In addition to the subject files, a separate notebook for each subject can be useful for revision note taking. It’s also a good idea to plan ahead to be organised for active learning, with a supply of large sheets of paper and coloured pens for “spider maps” or colourful posters that can

10

FNWL107.indd 10

be displayed on the wall to see regularly, and access to a phone app or webcam to record reciting or acting out key learning points.

JK Educate - Jaderberg Krais JK Educate specialises in bespoke support for children’s learning, with schools advice, child assessments, specialist subject tutoring, entrance exam preparation and study skills.

Contact Katie on 020 3488 0754 or via www.jaderbergkrais.co.uk/ contact-us/ * The Life-Changing Magic Of Tidying by Marie Kondo, published by Vermillion

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

29/04/2016 12:07

Education LIKE us on Facebook to get after-press updates on local events and activities!

ROXETH MEAD SCHOOL ESTABLISHED 1859

Independent school for boys and girls between 3 years and 7+

www.facebook.com/FamiliesNWLondon

SW Consortium & QE Boys

CEM 11+ Latymer & Henrietta Barnett

Saturday 7 May 2016 ............... 2.30pm - 4.30pm Saturday 4 June 2016 ............... 2.30pm - 4.30pm Saturday 3 July 2016 ................ 2.30pm - 4.30pm

Nascot Wood Recital Hall, Nascot, Wood Road, Watford WD17 4YS

£25 per paper including detailed feedback & online software to practise.

BOOK NOW www.mocktestmasters.com • www.11plusmocktests.com FEEDBACK includes: ✔ Detailed report on your child’s strengths & weaknesses ✔ Access to mock test questions and answers ✔ Uniquely, all exam formats - just like the real exam!

Small classes Dedicated staff Excellent academic record Caring and supportive atmosphere ◆ Happy, considerate and confident children Vacancies sometimes available for 5 and 6 year olds.

Contact the Headteacher ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆

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

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

FNWL107.indd 11

11

29/04/2016 12:08

Education

How to keep your child’s brain ticking over the summer holidays

T

By Liat Hughes Joshi

he long summer holidays are a well-earned break; a time for kids to spend whole mornings in their PJs, to build dens, go on endless outings and enjoy a ride on their bikes in the park. But the downside of such a lengthy spell away from school is that learning can slip back significantly, with children often forgetting some of the skills they have learnt.

The good news is that we’ve got plenty of ways to prevent this so-called ‘summer slide’ (including a fantastic list of local camps and activities – check out our feature on pages 16-20!). This is largely fun stuff and there’s no need to capitalise all of their, or indeed your, time. Don’t panic, July and August won’t become some sort of temporary home school project and besides, they’re likely to be awake 12 to 14 hours a day, so even half an hour of learning still leaves masses of time for kicking back and relaxing…

12

FNWL107.indd 12

1. Head to the library for the Summer Reading Challenge This popular scheme runs every summer in almost all public libraries across the UK and is designed to encourage children to read throughout the holidays. Usually, those who finish at least six books over the six-week period receive badges, rewards and a certificate at the end, with some schools choosing to hand these out in assembly at the start of the new academic year. Even better: it’s all completely free!

Check out the Summer Reading Challenge website for more information, as well as children’s book-related news, chat and competitions. http://summerreadingchallenge.org.uk/

2. Send some postcards Get your children to share their holiday news with grandparents or

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

29/04/2016 12:08

Education friends via good old-fashioned postcards. You could agree a swap with their best friends before heading off for any trips. Younger school-age pupils can practice their letter formation, whilst older ones can look at incorporating some exciting vocabulary into their messages. For keen writers, perhaps find a pen pal – this could even be a cousin who lives far away.

3. Break out the board games and prop open the puzzle books Board games are ideal for those inevitable-to-a-British-summer rainy days and many of the more traditional options incorporate maths. For reception children, work out their counting with Kerplunk (they’ll need to check who has the most sticks and the difference) and Snakes and Ladders. For junior school age kids, Monopoly requires dealing with money and addition, subtraction and multiplication. Meanwhile, Sudoku, word search and logic problem books are all brilliant brain stretchers for times when a more solitary activity is needed.

6. Start a blog Tap into an older child’s interests and suggest they set up a blog about it – it could be sports-related, about cooking or outings they’ve been on. If you’re worried about internet safety, just keep it anonymous or filter out any messages and comments yourself.

Another option is to keep the blog private and not actually publish it – they can still show it to friends. You never know, they could be the next internet blogging sensation…

7. Ready, get set, go for some Olympicthemed learning 2016 is an Olympic year, so combine boosting interest in sport with some maths and literacy. Ideas include reading the sports section of the paper or setting up their own medal winners’ league table by country. You could also pick a medal winner’s country each day to research together and find a few facts about.

4. Keep a holiday scrapbook

8. Work on non-academic skills that are useful too

Head to the stationery shop and choose a funky diary or scrapbook and some pens or pencils, then get them started with keeping a record of their most exciting moments of the summer.

For younger writers, even a word or sentence under a picture or stuck-in memento is a start, whilst older children might want to put pen to paper and turn the scrap book into a lengthier journal.

With much less going on compared to term time, the holidays are a perfect opportunity to work on age-appropriate skills your child could do with picking up or honing. Improving their swimming, doing their shoelaces up, or getting used to becoming a shade more independent by, say, walking to post a letter or to the corner shop, are all worthwhile ideas.

5. Sneak stealth learning into everyday activities Daily life is full of sneaky little educational opportunities – some so subtle that your children will barely notice what you’re up to. It might be weighing and measuring ingredients when baking cakes, dividing the bill between families in a restaurant, or budgeting in the toy shop. If you get too into this, the kids will inevitably spot what you’re doing and complain, but now and then and you should get away with it.

Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including ‘New Old-fashioned Parenting’ and ‘How to Unplug Your Child’ (both published by Summersdale) and Raising Children: The Primary Years (Pearson).

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

FNWL107.indd 13

13

29/04/2016 12:08

Education

11 plus

through the eyes of a 10 year old

by Bella Topan

A

year to go! This was my first thought as I slowly nervously came down the stairs to receive a pile of 11 plus revision books. I really didn’t understand at the time what the big fuss was or the urgency of starting work a whole year early. Surely, we all seem to be over reacting?

How wrong was I!

“The 11plus preparation year taught me to never underestimate the importance of preparation, perseverance and sheer determination to get through any problem.”

I reluctantly and annoyingly turned over the first page and started working. During the first couple of weeks, I didn’t mind the extra work and it seemed to help at school but slowly the novelty wore off. A year doesn’t seem like a long time but factor in the endless question papers, practice papers,

comprehensions, clozes and vocabulary that I couldn’t pronounce let alone spell, then every day is an 11plus day! Suddenly all this became my life. It was work before school, work at school, work after school and work at the weekends. Cacophony, novice, and imperative are some of the words from my vocabulary flash cards that I will never forget. This was true of all my friends and peers and our conversations soon became about how much extra work everyone else is doing. Like a clock which has gone out of control, time sped rapidly as the exam date neared! They all tell you that you shouldn’t worry but how can you not?

Finally the nerve-racking exam came! My heart was beating like cheetahs as I entered the monstrous hall full of nervous children. Have I worked enough I thought anxiously as I stared at the paper, I took a deep breath and turned over the first page. This is it! A whole year of work and it comes to 2 hours to show it off. I can’t tell you the relief when it is all over but I wasn’t as excited as I thought I would be as now the anxious wait for the results. Will it be enough?

The result day come. Pounding, I clutched my fists not knowing what was coming. My results were good but would it be good enough for the school I like. The worst position is all the uncertainty. I can’t celebrate yet as no one knows what school they can get but at the same time, since there is hope, I can’t fully despair either. All is not lost!

The 11 plus preparation year taught me to never underestimate the importance of preparation, perseverance and sheer determination to get through any problem. Also, that time goes by really quickly. Now the anxious wait begins until allocation day but no matter what happens, I know that the lessons will stay with me forever so good luck to all and see you at the finish line!

Elisa’s Tutorial School Edgware

from 21/2 years to 16 years of age.

Give your child the best start.

26 years experience. Ex St. Michaels’ Grammar School teacher. BA. PGCE Expert tuition in English, Maths and reasoning for 4 plus, 7 plus, 11 plus, 13 plus and also GCSE. Pre-school reading, maths and writing classes taught through music, art, toys and stories, computer lessons also.

020 8958 1192 07956 868119 Online tutoring available at

www.childrensstories.net www.kidslearnfast.co.uk and ElisaGianoncelli.com 14

FNWL107.indd 14

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

29/04/2016 12:08

BUXLOW

Preparatory School Established in Wembley in 1927

OPEN MORNING 27th May 10:00 to 12:00

• Small classes taught in a caring, family environment.

• An excellent record of 11+ Senior School progression & scholarships.

• Outstanding success in music, drama & sport.

• An active and supportive PTA.

For further information call 020 89043615 or email admin@buxlowschool.org.uk

www.buxlowschool.org.uk

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

FNWL107.indd 15

15

29/04/2016 12:09

Summer Camps

2016

T

SUMMER CAMPS

he USA has had a tradition of summer camps for decades, but the UK has been quite slow to follow. Scouts, Girl Guides, church and other youth groups have held camps for years, but the notion of sending your child off without Arkela or Brown Owl has not proved to be a decision that a lot of parents have historically made.

That said, ‘times are a changing’ – even in the UK. A combination of both parents working full time therefore making it more difficult to look after children in the holidays, and children not having the freedom to roam as they used to thirty to forty years ago, has led to a more structured ‘camp’ offering – the multi activity or specialist residential or day summer camp. These are often held in outdoor centres, hired schools, or campsites, and range from film making to specialist courses such as tennis, football, horse riding or any number of exciting activities.

In the last twenty years we in the UK have sadly become an increasingly

16

FNWL107.indd 16

risk averse society – especially where our children are concerned. However this attitude show signs of moderating as increasingly, there has been a desire among thoughtful parents and the government towards getting children outside and active again. The health benefits, both physical and mental, and giving them the chance to flourish in a different environment are being seen as a childhood necessity again, and the school holidays are the perfect time for children to embrace these rich experiences.

Whichever centre or course you choose, make sure that the company is a member of an outdoor organisation such as the British Activity Providers Association, which has a strict code of practice and an inspection scheme, holds the Adventure Mark, or is inspected by its own specific organisation. Ask lots of questions, and then send your child off knowing that they will have a tremendous time, learn lots, make friends, return tired, grubby but very happy. What more could a parent want?

Tricia Rawlingson Plant is the Director at Mill on the Brue Outdoor Activity Centre where, since 1982, they have been providing quality residential experiences in their twenty five acres of fields, river valley and woods. Children experience nature first hand, attempt new activities and learn about the environment including growing organic vegetables and fruit, caring for animals, and becoming more independent, free from mobile phones and computers (a digital detox!). Relationships are built through sharing and supporting others, challenging themselves and seeing what inner strengths they possess.

Participants for the camps are kept to a maximum 70 children to ensure a rich, personal experience for all.

Find out more about the range of activities they offer! www.MillontheBrue.co.uk

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

29/04/2016 12:10

Summer Camps

RESIDENTIAL CAMPS AIGAS - various dates. Wildlife Holidays & Courses in the Highlands. Offering fully inclusive, small-group learning holidays and study courses exploring the stunning wildlife, habitats and landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and Islands.01463 782 443 www.aigas.co.uk ATE Superweeks are 7 day residential holidays running 29th July-5th August, 6th-13th, 14th21st, and 22nd-29th August. The Council makes sure that keeping children safe, both physically and emotionally, is ATE’s top priority. Ages 8-16 yrs. 0845 456 1205 www.ate.org.uk Camp Wild 25th July – 13th August in glorious East Devon. They will be running residential camps for 7-12 yr olds and day camps for 6-12 yr olds (recommended day camp length of 1-3 days, either M-W or W-F). 01404 822 188 www.escotcampwild.co.uk Marlborough College 10th July- 6th August in Wiltshire SN8 1PA. Marlborough College Summer School continues to welcome young people (3-16yrs) to their action-packed week of activities and entertainment either as residents with their families, or as day students on their own or in a group. 01672 892388 www.mcsummerschool.org.uk Mill on the Brue Outdoor Activity Centre Somerset. 10th July – 20th August. Family run and owned since 1982. Maximum 70 residential kids. 25 acres fields, woods, river; over 40 exciting, challenging activities. Trained, experienced, fun staff. Residential/day camps.

Small groups/same age. 8–15. Delicious meals.

Rail escort from Paddington 01749 812307 www.millonthebrue.co.uk Xplore Activity Camps – Summer Activity Residential and day Camps! Offers the choice of going to camp for a day, week or even for your whole summer holiday! There is always a mix of activities so whether you are super outdoorsy or prefer to be more creative there will be something for you. Xplore is Ofsted registered, accepts childcare vouchers and have centres all over the UK 01449 742700 www.xploreactivitycamps.com XUK Activity Summer Camp – 10th July – 20th August. XUK is a multi-activity summer camp based in the beautiful location of the Norfolk countryside, just 1.5 hours north of London.

Activities include adventure (rock climbing/ rifle shooting/quad bikes/high rope courses/ water zorbing) sports, water sports, drama, dance, arts and crafts, cookery and much more!

Children join them for anywhere between 1 and 6 weeks. They welcome 6-17 year olds.

020 8371 9686 enquiry@xkeys.co.uk www.xkeys.co.uk/residential-camp/

DAY CAMPS Aqua Vie – 5 days consecutive swimming lessons in Bushey. 01923 245773 www.aqua-vie.com Art and Craft Summer Camp with My Sisters and Me Do you have children with an arty streak? Are you looking for something to keep them entertained in the long summer holidays?

Then book them into the Summer Camp at Harrow Arts Centre where a different theme will be introduced every day. The classes are

from 9.30am-3pm, for ages 5-11 years. 07946 055 422 info@mysistersandme.co.uk www. mysistersandmecreate.blogspot.co.uk 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 BrightStars Learning Summer School is a two week English and arithmetic programme aimed at 4 - 11 year olds. The course is based in Edgware, Middx and runs from 8th August - 19th August. Classes include preparing children for Reception and the 11+ exams. The enthusiastic and experienced team of teachers look forward to making this an enjoyable and beneficial experience for your child. For further information please contact Reena Damani on 07538656810 - www.brightstarslearning.co.uk Brondesbury Sports Club Kids’ tennis and multi sports camps run during May and Summer holidays. Multi-sport camps in the Summer offer football, hockey, tennis, cricket, netball, table tennis and rounders, run by fully qualified coaches – book for a day or a week. They also offer term time and summer cricket coaching all set in a beautiful central location near Cricklewood, Hampstead and West Hampstead. admin@brondesburysc.co.uk www.brondesburycoaching.co.uk Blag Youth Theatre Performing Arts Summer School, open to all kids from 7-17 years. This year’s project will be Matilda and the Chocolate Factory from July 25th -6th August. Rehearsals from 10am-6pm daily. 01923 772 320 www.blagtheatre.co.uk continued on page 18 v

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

FNWL107.indd 17

17

29/04/2016 12:10

Summer Camps continued from page 17

Cooking Camp Creativz Kids cooking camp and workshops in school holidays. Fun and creative introduction to cooking, baking and chocolate making. Based in North West London, camp days run from 10am to 3pm.

02089586628 tracey@messyplay.co.uk or facebook Cooking Camp Creativz Eggless Cake Delights Kids 3 day hands on Eggless Baking Course for keen young bakers aged 9 - 16 years old who would love to learn how to make eggless cakes, cupcakes etc.

Classes are held in small groups in a friendly environment and all equipment will be provided. 07737847405/07590337823 info@egglesscakedelights.com Explore Learning – Offer Maths and English tuition sessions for 5-14 year olds throughout the school holidays. 01895 636378 www. explorelearning.org.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 Fleet Tutors – Run 5-day or 3-day small group preparation courses for 11+ or 13+ entrance exams. These are run by highly successful school entrance exam tutors and focus on Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning and NonVerbal Reasoning during the week, with students sitting mock exam papers.

0845 644 5452 www.fleet-tutors.co.uk

Gymboree Watford Summer camps for 2.5 - 5 year olds. 2 hour activities include sports & fitness, theatre arts workshops and pre-school classes. Available Monday to Saturday. Must be pre-booked. Contact watford@gymboree-uk. com, 01923 250440, www.gymboree-uk.com/watford 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 Hertsmere Leisure will be running Summer Play Schemes at their centres. www.hertsmereleisure.co.uk Hillingdon Outdoor Activities Centre (HOAC) Sailing, Windsurfing, Kayaking and Land activities for 8-18 yr olds.01895 824 171 www.hoac.net Holidaytime Holiday Club – Offer a fun, active and safe time for all children aged between 3 and 13 years at Quainton Hall School in Harrow.

Activities include swimming, arts and crafts, trips, sports coaching, cooking, parties, nature trails, games, and much more.

07903 126486 www.activetime.co.uk JK Educate 11+ Workshops in Maths and English 2016 for Y5 and Y6 children. A series of engaging 11+ workshop days to boost children’s motivation and confidence, teaching and practising many of the skills needed to successfully sit the 11+ exams. The next workshops will take place on Thursday 2nd June 2016, with Maths from 8.30am-12.30pm and English from 1.30-5.30pm. The 11+ Mock Exam will be held on Sunday 12th June 2016.

To book a place for your child at one of their workshops or Mock Exam sessions, please call Nimita on 07957 464763 or email nimita@ jkeducate.co.uk. Full Workshop details available at: www.jaderbergkrais.co.uk/workshops 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 play schemes 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 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 25th July – 12th August at Grange Park Primary School, Enfield and Bentley Wood High School, Stanmore; and 1st – 19th August at Haberdashers’ Aske’s Crayford Academy, Crayford and 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

Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford call: 0208 123 9346 email: jodiesloan@littlekickers.co.uk Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet call: 0208 201 1084 email: jlevene@littlekickers.co.uk Harrow (HA3), North Wembley and Bushey call: 0208 422 0676 email: niro@littlekickers.co.uk

18

FNWL107.indd 18

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

29/04/2016 12:11

Summer Camps

Mill on the Brue Outdoor Activity Centre

Modern Combat Martial Arts offer a wide range of classes suited to all levels, ages and abilities throughout the holidays. Classes run in Hatch End, Harrow, Northolt, and Bushey. www.moderncombatmartialarts.com www.fightingcombatfitness.co.uk 07818 416 671 info@moderncombatmartialarts.com

Little Big Leaders - Get real results instantly in Reading, Maths or English for your child aged 3.5 to 11. Remarkable lessons during term time & 3 week premium Summer School at Rickmansworth, Bushey, Edgware. 9am to 1pm or 1.20pm. £100 off Super Summer Offer (until the end of the month when paying for 3 weeks. Please check ad for full terms and conditions). Call NOW 020 3637 6266 (24/7) www.littlebigleaders.com

progress, giving them a great boost for the start of the new academic year. 0844 870 9896 www.magikats.co.uk

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, 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 Summer holidays. Based at Brookland School in Hampstead Garden Suburb. Activities include sports, arts and crafts, dance, drama, bouncy castle, yoga and much more! Ofsted registered and inspected as ‘Outstanding’! 020 8371 9686 www.xkeys.co.uk/ day-camps/mini-minors-xuk-day

Magikats – Their Summer Holiday Programme is for students not able to attend workshops during term time, and gives a six week boost at a time when most children’s brains switch off. Fun learning material helps the student to

Makes ‘n’ Bakes – Summer holiday baking classes for ages 2.5-6 years. Begins with a story, weighing out ingredients, baking a yummy creation then making a quality craft. Sessions last 1 hour with a maximum of 6 children per class. 07887 984401 wilkin@afrormosia.com

Mini Picassos – Fab, fun and creative! Holiday workshops from 10-1pm weekdays for children aged from 4-11 years. Clay modelling, painting, plaster, charcoal cartoon Manga style drawing sessions. Scholarship classes available 07903 638817 www.minipicassos.co.uk

Monkey Music Their holiday 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 they also welcome friends and visitors. Book early to avoid disappointment. 0208 427 6595 www.monkeymusic.co.uk Northwood Community Arts Group Summer Circus Skills 2016 for boys and girls aged 6-13 with Albert and Friends Instant Circus.

Mon 8th– Fri 12th Aug from 10.30am-3.30pm each day at St Johns Church, Hallowell Road, Northwood. A week full of safe and active fun including uni-cycling, stilt-walking, tightwire balancing, ball walking, juggling and Diablo. Amazing skills showcase for family audience on the last day. £99. 01628 675800 northwoodarts@artreach.biz www.northwoodcommunityarts.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 continued on page 18 v

www.activetime.co.uk North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

FNWL107.indd 19

19

29/04/2016 12:11

Summer Camps Watford Football Club Central Trust Football and Multi-sports Summer Camps at various local venues. 01923 496362 www.watfordfcsetrust.com

continued from page 17

Perform From 15th – 19th Aug at Northwood from 10am-3pm: For 4-7 year olds: ‘The Jungle Book’. This summer your young cub will have the wildest week ever putting on a show about Mowgli and his friends. Based on Rudyard Kipling’s classic, Perform’s courses are led by actors, musicians and dancers and end with a mini-musical on the last day. For 7-12 year olds: ‘The Secret Garden’. This summer, children will be whisked away to the mysterious and magical world of Misselthwaite Manor on this 5-day holiday course. 0207 255 9120 enquiries@ perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk/holidays 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 - Prevent regression in the school holidays- Keep your child’s brain stimulated and improve academic performance during the holidays. Raviv Practice London offers three evidence-based computer programs that present the perfect compromise between play and work. One-to-one intervention scientifically proven to improve your child’s grades. Contact Usha Patel -Raviv Practice London- on 07766 837 616 Rose Hall Farm Offer a range of courses for junior riders, including Pony Day’s which are for one day and look at riding and stable management. They also offer 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 ROS Stageworks 23rd – 30th July. An opportunity for young performers to take part in a specially adapted (junior) version of a well known musical, after a week of rehearsals and workshops. 07789 900048 www. rosswsummerschool.org Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts From 22nd26th August Sharpe Academy are running a Musical Theatre Summer School at Watersmeet in Rickmansworth. There is a session for 3-5 year olds daily at 10.30am-12.30pm, and for 6-21 year olds at 10am-4pm each day.

01923 711063 www.sharpeacademy.co.uk Stagecoach Summer Workshops performing arts holiday workshops for 4-6 year olds (half day) and 6-18 years (full day). Learn a show in a week, make friends, learn new skills working with industry professionals – with a costumed performance on the Friday to family and friends! www.stagecoach.co.uk/ holidayworkshops

Watford Palace Theatre – Participation Summer School. A week of drama, fun and games where you can work with professional theatre directors to create a play in a week.

This year the theme will be ‘The Phizz-Whizzing word of Roald Dahl’ for 7-11 year olds and ‘Clued Up?’ for 11-16 year olds.01923 810307 www. watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk

Stitch–London Spend up to 3 days in the Stitch Studio in Cuckoo Hill, Pinner, making! Suitable for boys and girls aged 8+. All fabrics and materials supplied. 0750 300 1024 www.stitch-london.co.uk Super Camps - The school summer holidays are a time for children to have fun whilst keeping active in body and mind. Super Camps give children the opportunity to do just that, with a range of camps and courses to suit everyone. Camps run from 8am – 6pm for ages 4-14. Activities include Multi-Activity; RAW Adventure; The Great Super Camps Bake-Off; The Great British Takeaway; A Passion For…Arts & Crafts & A Passion For…Super Science. See website for venues and activities. 01235 467300 www.supercamps.co.uk.

Wildchild – Hold Camps over the Summer holidays including Wild Animation, Wild Archery, Wild Survivor Bushcraft Day and Wild Wheels Skateboard School. Venues include Phasels Wood Activity Centre in Kings Langley and St Albans Girls School. www.wildchildactivities.com Willows Activity Farm – Activity Day Camps every school holiday. Book the kids into Willows Activity Farm for holiday adventures they love! As well as all the fun of Willows Activity Farm, the children enjoy indoor play in their exclusive playrooms. Lunch and a two course hot meal plus all drinks and snacks are also included. 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 Radlett Centre Five Day Musical Theatre Workshop. 8-16 years. 1st-5th Aug & 22nd26th 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 The Veggie Kitchen offers pure vegetarian cookery courses in Stanmore for adults and children. Specialising in Indian cuisines, as well as Thai, Chinese and many more, students will learn to cook nutritious and delicious vegetarian meals in a friendly and homely environment. Offer group and one-to-one hands on courses. 0208 204 1906 8 www.veggiekitchen.co.uk Type IT! – Fast track holiday courses suitable for boys and girls aged 10+ and other family members such as parents and grandparents.

The course includes encouragement to develop good touch typing skills, 5x fun and engaging daily lessons and fun keyboard games away from the computer screen. The course consists of two 75 minute lessons daily with two activity breaks. 020 8864 0325 www.typeitforkids.co.uk

The Windmill Studio Centre, based in Ruislip Manor. Jimmy’s Disney Magic Summer Holiday Fun Workshop 2016 for kids aged 4-9 runs 9.30am-12.30pm 1st-5th August amid the safe and clean surroundings of The Windmill Studio Centre, Pembroke Road, Ruislip Manor.

Professionally run by DBS checked staff, the Workshop features a host of Disney themed activities 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 and his Disney friends will also be popping in and joining in the fun throughout the week.

A morning snack and drink is included in the £75 price. Contact T: 01895 624755, E: thewindmillstudio@gmail.com

North West London

LIKE us on Facebook to get after-press updates on local events and activities! www.facebook.com/ FamiliesNWLondon

20

FNWL107.indd 20

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

29/04/2016 12:12

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

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

FNWL107.indd 21

21

29/04/2016 12:12

Parenting

Beg, Steal or Borrow

How to organise summer holiday childcare Juggling work and childcare over the summer holidays needn’t be an issue with our handy guide…  Relatives Look to close family members to see if anyone could help.

Your parents or in-laws may be ideal, as most will revel in the chance to bond with – and spoil– their grandchildren. Just remember to stick to set times and help by sending your kids with pocket money towards that trip to the zoo. It might be free for you, but it won’t be free for them!

 School mums Have a chat with mums at the school gates to see if they can help. Make sure you only ask people you feel confident leaving your child with, and take a box of chocolates over at the end of the day as a thank you. Most mums might instead prefer a ‘swap’ in return, where they look after your child one day and you look after theirs another.

 Childminders/Holiday Nanny Childminders and Nannies are a great option over the holidays, with many parents sticking to the same person they normally use during term time. Ask friends who they recommend, or look online for Ofsted-registered carers. Just remember to ask what stipulations they have, such as whether you still pay if your child is sick or you go away. In the case of a Nanny, she may well be up for coming with you on your holiday to help with the work AND Play!

By Claire Muffett-Reece

 Holiday play schemes/ summer camps/ nurseries (see pages 16-20 for a list of local providers and services) Catered to fit around school hours, this form of daycare is often based on themes to appeal to your youngster, such as football, science, dance and drama. Run privately or by your council, this can be booked daily or weekly and is a fun way for your child to meet new friends and gain skills.

 Working from home Explain your childcare struggle to your boss as soon as possible in the hope they might be sympathetic to your situation. If they agree to you working from home be sure to complete all your tasks on time – regardless of any distractions! Not getting your job done will soon be picked up by management, meaning you’ll be refused if you ever broach the subject again!

Claire Muffett-Reece is a freelance journalist who writes on parenting, lifestyle, health and general interest.

Mum to Jack, five, and Max, three, her work has been published in The Evening Standard, The Metro and Cosmopolitan, among others

To advertise YOUR BUSINESS with us, call: 01923 237 004 email: Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

Paediatric First Aid Courses Sun 15 May and Sun 26 June Pinner/Harrow Area

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

22

FNWL107.indd 22

Hugs and Giggles Nursery is set in the wonderful grounds of Headstone Manor a Grade I listed 14th century Manor House which is home to Harrow Museum and Heritage Centre.

Please ring the nursery for our next upcoming Open Morning!

Please call 020 8861 3983 for further details 101a Headstone Lane•Headstone Manor Park•Harrow HA2 6JL

Email: office@hugsandgiggles.co.uk www.hugsandgiggles.co.uk

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

29/04/2016 12:12

For Children aged 2 to 5 years old • A wonderful setting for children to learn and grow

• High standard of qualified and caring staff • Family atmosphere

• Safe secure and stimulating environment • Large Outdoor area

Open 51 weeks a year, offering part time and full time sessions

OPEN MORNING 27th May 10:00 to 12:00

Why not come and see our nursery!

Tel: 0208 904 3615 nursery.manger@buxlowschool.org.uk

www.buxlownursery.org.uk

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

FNWL107.indd 23

23

29/04/2016 12:12

Local Clubs and Classes Directory CLASSES FOR GROWN-UPS

MUSIC & MOVEMENT

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

Little Notes (HA1&HA6) Music Teachers’ Awards for Excellence Finalist 2016.

Pre-school music classes run exclusively by professional musicians. Love music, right from the start! Classes for children from 0 to 5 years in Harrow & Northwood. Please see website for more details and to book a Free Taster Session.  sarahlittlenotes@gmail.com www.littlenotes.co.uk 020 8426 4114

Capital Connection Chorus - female A capella harmony (HA4) Calling women who love to sing! Particularly need lower range voices at present.

Perfect way to meet new friends and sing with a great group of women.

Every Wednesday night 7.45pm to 10.30pm at Ruislip Community Centre.

For more information:  www.capitalconnection.org.uk Eggless Cake Delights (HA) offer eggless baking , cake decorating and dessert classes for kids & adults in Harrow. Classes are held in small groups in hands on and Demo format, during weekdays, weekends and during term holidays in a friendly environment.  07737847405 or info@ egglesscakedelights.com.  www.egglesscakedelights.com The Veggie Kitchen (HA7) Pure vegetarian cookery courses in Stanmore.

Specialising in Indian cuisines, as well as Thai, Chinese and many more, students will learn to cook nutritious and delicious vegetarian meals in a friendly and homely environment. Offer group and one-to-one hands on courses.  0208 204 1906  www.veggiekitchen.co.uk 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 for January YogaBelles: yoga designed for a unique women’s body.  07840 904887  anjli@yogabellies.co.uk www.yogabellies.co.uk/members/anjli

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

LANGUAGES AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT 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 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

Sign Language Sing and Sign (Various) Fun classes combining the benefits of baby signing with music to develop language, memory and attention skills.

Babies 6-30 months. Bushey, Rickmansworth, Stanmore and Harrow:  www.singandsign.com

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

24

FNWL107.indd 24

Mini Maniacs (Various) Multi award nominated classes that are filled with music, dance and exploration – plus plenty of excitement.

Focusing on a range of engaging activities, the classes take you up tempo then down tempo, leaving parent and child feeling like they’ve been on a tummy tickling roller coaster!  Contact hilda@mini-maniacs.com or visit www.mini-maniacs.com Monkey Music (Various) Award-winning Monkey Music introduces babies and young children to music in a way they understand and enjoy - and is brilliant fun for children and adults too! The unique four-stage curriculum ensures that classes are a “good fit” for pre-schoolers. Voted 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 Hillingdon, Eastcote, Northwood and Harrow.  01895 674587  www.monkeymusic.com

SPORTS AND EXERCISE Capoeira Academy UK (HA) Classes in Stanmore providing outstanding and fun classes for children aged 4+years. A unique blend of martial arts, dance, acrobatics and music; capoeira develops skills for life with inspiring and nurturing teachers.  07841342874  capoeiracademyuk@gmail. com www.capoeiracademyuk.com Enjoy-a-Ball classes (Various) Sports coaching for 3-9 yr olds in a fun, positive and non-competitive environment. Ten ball sports for the perfect introduction to sport. Physi-ball classes - Ball skills and core skills for toddlers aged 18mths to 3 yrs. Classes run in Mill HIll, Finchley, Golders Green and Muswell Hill. Call 08452 26 26 94 to book a trial session. Enjoya-Ball parties are for super-active 3 - 9 year olds. They are full of high energy games loved by boys and girls alike!  08452 26 26 94  www.enjoy-a-ball.com northlondon@enjoy-a-ball.com Field End Flyers Saturday Morning Community Cycle Club (HA5) Every Saturday in Term Time at Field End Road for all children aged 5 – 11 years.

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 (for both children and parents) 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.  For further info contact Tracey at fieldendflyers@gmail.com Little Kickers (Various) Enabling children aged 18mths up to their 7th birthday to develop their coordination, balance and agility through football activity classes Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet  020 8201 1084  jlevene@littlekickers.co.uk. Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford  0208 123 9346  jodiesloan@littlekickers.co.uk or Harrow (HA3) Bushey and North Wembley  0208 422 0676  niro@littlekickers.co.uk www.littlekickers.co.uk

Modern Combat Martial Arts (MCMA) offer a wide range of classes suited to all levels, ages and abilities. Their Combative MCMA curriculum has been designed for the purpose of Street Self Defence.

Why Join MCMA? •They offer their SAFE Kids classes from 4 years old •Junior & Teen classes •Annual Grading Examinations & Structured Belt System •Mixed Adult classes • Women Only Kick Boxing Are you looking for something that can challenge you or your child mentally & physically, and teach a life skill that is so valuable in today’s society? Then look no further and contact them today to book your FREE TRIAL LESSON Locations: Hatch End, Harrow, Northolt, Bushey  www.moderncombatmartialarts.com  www.fightingcombatfitness.co.uk  07818 416 671 E: info@moderncombatmartialarts.com

Directory editor: Anna Blackshaw

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 funfilled programmes aimed at improving general ball skills, balance, agility and coordination. Currently classes in Watford, Rickmansworth, Bushey and Stanmore.  For more information contact remi@rugbytots.co.uk SportsKids Academy (WD3 & HA3) Multi-sports Activities for children.

All students are taught in small groups of similar age and ability. Mini academy ages 4-6 years (an hour and a half) Main Academy 6-16 years (3 hours). (Previously known as SportsCoach.) Held at JFS The Mall Kenton and Rickmansworth Masonic School Rickmansworth  01923255099  sportskids@outlook.com www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk White Crane Karate School (HA8) Karate classes for ages 4 years and above held in Edgware, East Finchley, Finchley Central , Stanmore and Harrow Weald. Adult classes in Barnet.  Sheena 0787 550 1674  whitecraneedgware34@hotmail.co.uk www.karatewhitecrane.co.uk

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

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

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

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

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

29/04/2016 12:12

Local Clubs and Classes Directory 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.

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

JAM2000 Performing Arts & Agency (HA4) Truly like no other, with classes available from 2.5 years – adults, male and female plus an incredibly busy agency that is always looking for new recruits!  01895 624755 www.jam2000.co.uk

Messmakers! (HA5) A gentle and fun introduction to creative arts for the very young and their families, with lots and 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

Perform Drama (Various) Together with a team of experienced theatre professionals, the children will combine live original music, inspirational dance and quick witted improvisation and colourful costumes into a performance at the end of the term. Perform sessions are specially designed to encourage creativity, confidence and communication skills as well as being a kaleidoscope of fun!  0845 400 1275  www.perform.org.uk

Mini Picassos (NW10) Offer exciting after school art courses for children aged 4-13 years. Toddler Picassos - weekdays at 10am & Tues 2.45-3.45pm: Painting, water play, collage, play dough and songs. Ages 15 mnths–3 years. Adults evening Life drawing classes. Get creative with a Mini Picassos Arty Birthday Party for children aged 2-10 years and Summer Holiday workshops too!  07903 638 817  www.minipicassos.co.uk info@minipicassos.co.uk

Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts (HA1, HA4, HA7, WD3) Performance based theatre school with venues based in Harrow, Rickmansworth, Ruislip and Stanmore where children aged 3-21 attend weekly classes in preparation for full scale Musical Theatre productions.  01923 437693  www.SharpeAcademy.co.uk

The Veggie Kitchen (HA7) offers pure vegetarian cookery courses in Stanmore. Specialising in Indian cuisines, as well as Thai, Chinese and many more, students will learn to cook nutritious and delicious vegetarian meals in a friendly and homely environment. Offer group and one-to-one hands on courses.  0208 204 1906  www.veggiekitchen.co.uk

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 Diddi Dance (HA) Funky preschool dance classes for boys and girls. Classes held across Harrow and North Hillingdon. 07521 454235  tejal.patel@diddidance.com www.diddidance.com Futunity UK Academy of Sport and Dance (UB8) Purpose built facility in Uxbridge City Centre. Futunity UK offer 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. Futunity UK also have 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 Karan’s Bollywood Masterclass (Various) Fun, Motivating and Popular dance classes that teach a fusion of Bollywood, Bhangra, Hip-Hop and Kathak. Open to Toddlers, Children & Adults - call us now to arrange your trial lesson. All dance levels welcome and training leads to stage performance opportunities.  0208 423 9543/07944 457 984  www. kspark.co.uk Lorna Clark School of Dance (Various) Established for over 40 years, training students from 3-18 yrs - Ballet, Tap, Modern, Classical Greek and National. Royal Academy of Dance Examinations are taken in Ballet from Primary to Advanced Level and ISTD exams in all other Genre to the same standard. All classes held in South Harrow/Eastcote. Book a free No Obligation Lesson with this advert.  0208 8662105 or 01923 285380.  www.lornaclarkschoolofdance.co.uk The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance (HA7) Ballet classes to develop poise, technique and expression through dance, for boys and girls aged 3-16 years with Royal Academy of Dance examinations  020 8950 2457  www vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk

ARTS AND CRAFTS Art Classes for Kids (and Adults) in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, painting and mixed media art classes for children and adults. On-going, small groups Monday–Thursday afternoons and Saturday mornings in Term Time for children from Year 1 up. Weekday morning studio sessions for adults in a relaxed, supportive environment.  020 8954 2897 or 07500 006 099  myartclub@yahoo.co.uk

AFTER SCHOOL CLUB /EDUCATION SUPPORT 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 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.

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 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.

First Class Learning (Various) Structured yet flexible programme, designed for children studying the UK National Curriculum. Tailored to a child’s learning needs & style. Find out more about this structured approach to learning, by contacting one of your local Centre managers.  www.firstclasslearning.co.uk Fleet Tutors (Various) Private home tutoring for Maths and English; 37 years’ experience.  020 8580 3911  www.fleet-tutors.co.uk

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) Leaders are Readers offer specialist experience and accelerated learning in their award winning Saturday School, and also run popular Summer and Winter Schools during holidays.

2 hours spent per subject, including English, Maths, Learning to Read and Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. All programmes are for ages 3.5 to 11 and the success rate is 90% for helping pupils prepare to sit entrance exams, including 4+, 5+, 7+ and 11+. Childcare vouchers accepted.  01992 651 300  www.leadersarereaders.co.uk Little Big Leaders Ltd (HA7) Supplementary School for students aged three and a half to 11 years undertaking Reading, Maths and English.  020 8213 3100 07949 925374 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 phone number to info@thelondontutors.co.uk Magikats (HA1) Innovative programmes, written to support the National Curriculum from ages 3 – 16, Sat at Gayton Library, Harrow. Individual programmes and support for individual children, promotes confidence, skills and a love of learning.  02084275663  www.magikats.com Math’scool Award-winning Maths Tuition plus out-of-lesson homework support.  0844 840 8400  www.mathscool.com The Northwood Speech and Language Therapy Practice (HA6) An independent service covering a range of children’s communication difficulties.  01923 824 074  www.northwoodpractice.co.uk Number Works ‘n’ Words (Eastcote) After school Maths and English tuition classes which target identified needs to improve achievement levels. They set goals for your child, monitor progress and provide regular progress reports. Cater for all levels from Reception to Year 11.  www.numberworksnwords.co.uk 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 for more information.  admin@ theplayshelter.co.uk www.theplayshelter.co.uk Raviv Practice London (UB5) Catch up reading course for children on the SEN register. Reading courses are flexible with home based learning (via computer) monitored daily.  Usha Patel on 07766 837 616  info@ravivpracticelondon.co.uk (registered therapist) Simple Studies (NW4) Offer expert English and Maths tuition for 4-16 year olds at their cosy centre in Hendon. They specialise in 11+ entrance exams.

Quote ‘Familiesmagazine’ and get 10% off your first lesson!  07793 498195  www.simplestudies.co.uk Stanmore Tutor Stanmore Tutor prepares students thoroughly for the top selective schools ensuring that they reach their maximum potential for that all important place.  020 3538 2437 Type IT! - Touch Typing Lessons for Children (HA5) Learn to touch type! Specifically designed 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.

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

Keep up to date!

Check the clubs and classes directory of the Families website www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk to see what’s near you.

From archery to zoology, you’ll find something for every child!

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

FNWL107.indd 25

25

29/04/2016 12:13

Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

What’s On in Children’s Theatre

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

Artsdepot

Watersmeet

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

High St, Rickmansworth WD3 01923 711 063 www.watersmeet.co.uk

Sun 15 May – Comedy Club 4 Kids Since 2005, the Comedy Club 4 Kids has been getting the best stand-ups and sketch acts from the international circuit to do their thing for an audience of children and their families… but without the rude bits! It’s just like a normal comedy club, but it’s on in the day, kids are allowed in, and so there is a higher than usual chance of heckles like “why is that your face!?” Ages 6+ Fri 27 May – Wed 1 Jun – Little Red Riding Hood There’s a sleepover at Grandma’s house, but it’s impossible to sleep when there’s a tale to be told about big hungry wolves that would swallow you down in one gulp. Join the half-term sleepover in your pyjamas, slippers, onesies or dressing-gowns, for a tale packed with special pies, smelly fur coats and donuts. A story with a whiskery Grandma and waldeinsamkeit. Yes that’s right, waldeinsamkeit!

Written by Olivier Award-winning Mike Kenny with songs by Olivier Award-nominated Simon Slater and directed by Owen Calvert-Lyons, Little Red Riding Hood gives the traditional tale an enchanting twist just perfect for children aged 4+ and their grown-ups.

Sun 5 Jun – A Boy and a Bear in a Boat Go aboard and join the heroes all at sea with just a suitcase, a ukulele and a teapot to help them.

Dark clouds are looming, the ocean is full of dangers, there’s only one sandwich left and it’s nearly teatime.

When all seems lost, can their friendship survive? And where exactly are they heading? Will they ever get there? Adapted from the award-winning novel by Dave Shelton and featuring live music and movement, A Boy and a Bear in a Boat is a funny, thoughtful and thrilling adventure. Ages 5-9 years (no admittance to under 3’s)

The Beck Theatre Grange Road, Hayes.

020 8561 8371 www.becktheatre.org.uk Tue 31 May – Pongo’s Party Featuring the voice of children’s TV favourite Justin Fletcher as Pongo the Pig! Today is the day that Pongo the Pig has been waiting for - that’s right, it’s his birthday! He’s been dropping hints to his friends all year, so is looking forward to a fantastic party… but the trouble is, nobody seems to re-member! And as if that wasn’t bad enough, it looks as though someone is taking Pongo’s birthday presents too – whoever can it be? Go dressed in your best party clothes and help make Pongo’s Party a day to remember, by joining in a show full of fun, songs and laughter – join a huge children’s band and take part in the town’s biggest ever game of pass the parcel!

Thu 12 – Sat 14 May – Oliver! Presented

by Rare Productions, the iconic Lionel Bart musical has become a firm favourite with adults and children alike.

Based on the Charles Dickens novel, it tells the story of Oliver, a workhouse boy who is sold to an undertaker, who runs away and eventually ends up joining Fagin’s gang of thieves and pickpockets. By a twist of fate, he encounters Mr Brownlow, a wealthy London busi-nessman, and ultimately his true background is revealed. The show includes such well known songs as Food Glorious Food, Consider Yourself and As Long As He Needs Me, and is suitable for children of all ages.

@artsdepot

Chickenshed

Lyric Theatre

Chase Side Southgate N14.

020 8292 9222 www.chickenshed.org.uk

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

Sat 28 May – Tales’ Big Day Out Welcome the warm weather with a bang! Tales Big Day Out is an enjoyable and entertaining outing for all the family, whether you’re familiar with the Tales world or you’re coming along for the first time. Children will have the opportunity to take part in a great interactive workshop and watch a fun performance of Tales from the Shed, then everyone will come together for a huge Tales extravaganza outside in the amphitheatre. There will also be other free to activities to discover and enjoy. Ages 0-6 years

Wed 6 Jul – Sun 4 Sep – Tall Stories’ The Gruffalo live in the WEST END! This July everyone’s favourite furry monster roars back into the West End in celebration of his 15th anniversary on stage! The most fearsome creature that never was but is - takes to the stage in this enchanting production combining songs, laughter and storytelling theatre with just the right amount of scary fun! Set to a wonderfully catchy score with original music and lyrics, The Gruffalo is a must-see show which continues to entertain audiences the world over.

Little Angel Theatre

Pump House

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

Lower Watford High Street, Watford WD17 01923 241 362 www.pumphouse.info

Until Sun 26 Jun – We’re Going On a Bear Hunt A family go on an expedition of a lifetime – running down the grassy bank, wading through the cold river, squelching over the oozy mud, stumbling into the dark forest, then peering into a cave… what will they find? Little Angel Theatre brings Michael Rosen’s thrilling and funny adventure to life in this entrancing puppetry production directed by Peter Glanville and with music and lyrics by renowned singersongwriter Barb Jungr. Ages 2-7 years

Wed 18 – Sat 21 May – Bugsy Malone The NRYA Saturday Junior School bring Alan Parker’s hugely successful film to life. Gangsters, Molls, Custard Pies and Splurge Guns that’s all you need for a fun night out.

Wed 29 Jun – Sun 3 Jul – Tom Thumb English/Australian puppetry company DNA Puppetry & Visual Theatre present England’s oldest tale of a tiny hero in changing times. Follow Tom’s magical journey from wizard Merlin and the Fairy Queen to his quest from King Arthur to defeat a fearsome dragon! Ages 4-9 years

Puppet Theatre Barge

Watford Palace Theatre Clarendon Road, Watford WD17 01923 225 671 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk Tue 31 May – My Pet Monster and Me Sophie Bucket lives on a farm with her Dad. She spends all of her time day-dreaming, but most of her time alone. If only she had a little friend to share her adventures. One day, Sophie finds an egg. She keeps it warm, and out pops a cuddly, toothy, burpy, baby MONSTER! And so, the fun begins... Brought to life by acclaimed Blunderbus Theatre and featuring puppetry, music and songs - this hilarious new show promises plenty of laughs for everyone!

Sat 4 – Sun 5 Jun - Tiddler & Other Terrific Tales Under the sea, out on the farm and into the jungle, these terrific tales are woven together with live music, puppetry and a whole host of colourful characters from Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler’s bestloved titles: Tiddler, Monkey Puzzle, The Smartest Giant in Town and A Squash and a Squeeze. Funky moves, toe tapping tunes and giggles are guaranteed!

Thu 30 Jun – Sat 2 Jul – High School Musical Rare Productions Youth Theatre Group is bringing to life Disney Channel’s smash hit musical! On the front steps of East High, it’s the first day after winter break (Wildcat Cheer). The Jocks, Brainiacs, Thespians and Skater Dudes find their cliques, recount their vacations, and look forward to the new year.

Watford Colosseum

Little Venice W9 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com

Rickmansworth Road Watford WD17 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Sat 19 Mar – Sun 15 May – The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse In Act 1 the Town Mouse visits her cousin in the country and has an adventure. In Act 2 the Country Mouse visits the town and finds a few surprises.

Sat 21 May – Sun 10 Jul – Brer Rabbit Visits Africa A wonderful adventure in puppetry for all the family!

Fri 3 Jun - Mission Impudseyble Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to join Britain’s Got Talent Winners’ Ashleigh and Pudsey for a brand-new interactive spy adventure suitable for the whole family. K9 Intelligence Agents Ashleigh and Pudsey must defeat their arch nemesis Dr Feline and his acrobatic cat burglars as they battle for world domination. With a fantastic array of gadgets, cars, jet packs and gismos audiences will help Ashleigh and Pudsey by finding clues, breaking codes, and solving puzzles. So get ready for this amazing musical adventure, featuring West End performers, and give the nation’s original and best dancing dog the “appaws” he deserves! Ages 4 – 104!

Sun 5 Jun – Mister Maker and the Shapes Live! Go and join your ultimate arts and craft hero Mister Maker, for his first ever live theatre tour! Packed full of arty adventures there’ll be a big ‘make’ to take part in, super songs to join in with, a fabulous supporting cast, and not forgetting, The Shapes! Mister Maker and The Shapes will also be joined by a team of all-singing, all-dancing friends!

This talented cast will really make the interactive arty adventure fun for all the family!

The Radlett Centre 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk Fri 3 Jun – The Sorcerer’s Apprentice Charlie Hubble is a little boy with a very big dream - he wants to be a world-class magician. So, for his birthday, he wishes for the Big Book of Spells for Trainee Magicians. Charlie wants to learn real magic, and he can’t wait for his spellbook to appear. Then one day, there’s a knock at the door. It’s a real life sorcerer! And he has a very special job for Charlie… This spellbinding new show comes to life with a magical blend of music, puppetry and high-energy storytelling. Ages 3-7.

Unicorn Theatre 147 Tooley Street, SE1.

020 7645 0560 www.unicorntheatre.com Fri 20 May – Sun 26 Jun – Septimus Bean and his Amazing Machine Septimus Bean has invented a very great machine but is yet to work out what it is for. With the help of the king and court, he finds out lots of things that it isn’t for and one unexpected thing that it is utterly perfect for. This comical, rhythmical and inventive show, based on the much-loved book, will be a highly enjoyable performance for the summer months. Ages 4+

26

FNWL107.indd 26

www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

for many more local events and diary dates for the whole family!

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

29/04/2016 12:13

What’s On

listings for all the family Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

To promote your local event, coffee morning, nearly new sale, parenting courses or community group in the next What’s On listing (July/August 2016) send your entry by 23rd May 2016 Email Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk. Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check details of the events before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.

www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk/RegularEvents for all our local weekly regular events. It’s updated every day!

Open Year Round Open Year Round – Horrible Histories Maze @ Warwick Castle (CV34) Choose your path through time to unravel history in the world’s first Horrible Histories adventure maze! Face fun challenges: invade a Viking ship, survive the trenches, uncover evil plots and escape the maze before things go horribly wrong! As you explore the maze you can learn Horrible Histories facts and collect stamps for your time passport. Once you have completed your passport you can collect a prize! www.warwick-castle.com/horrible-histories-maze Open Year Round – Drayton Manor Park & Thomasland (B78) Keeping your little ones entertained on a budget can be a challenge but Drayton Manor Park has a great value solution - Adult and Toddler entry tickets for just £20 Mon – Fri during term time.

There’s plenty for little ones to enjoy, from the 15 acre zoo to the 4D cinema, not to mention Europe’s only Thomas Land™ which boasts over 25 rides and attractions. www.draytonmanor.co.uk

May Sun 1 – Sat 7 May - Hillingdon Artists: Spring Exhibition (HA4) The Hillingdon Artist’s Group present their Spring Exhibition at the Cow Byre Gallery at Manor Farm.

This is a free event - just turn up on the day! 10am to 4pm from Sun to Fri, and then from 10am to 4.45pm on Sat. www.hillingdontheatres.uk Fri 6 May - NCT Hillingdon: Coffee Morning (UB8) Sit, relax and have a chat with other local parents and carers. Treat yourself to a coffee or some cake at the Debenham’s Restaurant, while enjoying the good company and conversation. Everyone is welcome, including babies and children and breast feeding mothers.

The Restaurant is very child friendly - providing high chairs, a food warming station, and a location ideally located for the baby changing area. This event takes place on the first Friday of every month at 10.30am www.nct.org.uk

Sat 7 May - Evening Bat Walk @ Cassiobury Park (WD18) As the sun goes down at Cassiobury Park head along in a search of bats. There will be bat detectors on hand to help you listen to the bats’ calls - and identify different species. Easy walking. Take a torch if you have one. Free but booking is essential. From 8-9.30pm. www.watford.gov.uk Sat 7 May - Plant Sale (HA6) This annual horticultural event at Michael Sobell House, is once again being organised by their awardwinning team of volunteer gardeners. Go and buy your bedding plants, flowers and fruit ‘n’ veg. Entry is free and refreshments will be available. Any donations of plants for this event welcomed. From 10am-12pm. www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk Sat 7 May - Watford Model Railway Exhibition (WD23) A Model Railway Exhibition from 10am-4pm at Queen’s School in Bushey, with more than 20 layouts in a variety of scales and gauges. Free parking, full disabled access, and refreshments. An excellent family day out! www.southwesthertsmrs.org.uk

Sat 7 – Sun 8 May – The National Pet Show (E16) The nation’s favourite pet show returns to ExCeL London with hundreds of different animals, fun and educational talks, training demonstrations and amazing animal action displays. There will also be a spectacular SuperDogs Live talent competition hosted by Michaela Strachan, the Eukanuba Supervet Live Tour, Hill’s School for Dogs training ring and many more activities. www.thenationalpetshow.com Sun 8 May - Ruislip Woods Festival (HA4) A Celebration of Woodland Life: Falconer displays, ferret racing, watch talented woodland craftsmen, try your hand at archery or using the special telescopes to see the sun.

Children can tackle the climbing wall or create a woodland craft. Take your well behaved dogs and enter them in the pet dog show or take a ride on the lido railway. 12 - 4.30pm. www.ruislipwoodstrust.org.uk

continued on page 28 v

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

FNWL107.indd 27

27

29/04/2016 12:13

What’s On Sun 8 May - May Open Day 2016 (HA4) Run in conjunction with the Ruislip Woods Festival, the Ruislip Lido Railway opens its doors to the public for a behind the scenes look at what they do to keep the railway running. All available locomotives will be on display in the yard for children (and adults!) to look at and sit in. The Turntable Tea Room will be open at Willow Lawn for all your refreshment needs and there will also be a small display of pictures and other information. www.ruisliplidorailway.org Sun 8 May - Save a Baby’s Life Workshop (HA0) Everyone Active Vale Farm Sports Centre are offering free community lifesaving courses. To book a place please contact centre reception. Courses are free however a voluntary contribution to the Royal Lifesaving Society (RLSS) would be appreciated and can be made on the day.

1.30-3.30pm 020 8908 6545 www.brent.gov.uk Sun 8 May - Sunday Family Workshop: Things Are Not Quite As They Seem with artist educator Alexandra Hughes (N1) Families will work together at the Parasol Unit with found photographs, manipulating the surface, sequence and adding text within a book format, to explore new narratives. With a fun and experimental approach to the photograph, this workshop will explore how manipulation can bring new imaginative possibilities and meanings to the photograph. Booking is required. 2.30-4pm. www.parasol-unit.org Mon 9 May - Transit of Mercury @ Royal Observatory Greenwich (SE10) From around 12pm until 7.45pm, the planet Mercury will pass in front of the Sun, known as the Transit of Mercury. On this remarkable day, the Royal Observatory Greenwich will be providing the public with opportunities to see the rare event through a range of telescopes. There will be free telescope viewings next to the Astronomy Centre and special ticketed sessions to view the event through the largest lensed telescope in the United Kingdom. www.rmg.co.uk Wed 11 May - Tackling Bullying Workshop (HA1) A workshop for parents of primary aged school children at Hope Harrow. The impact bullying has on children and young people can be devastating. In this two hour workshop you will look at some of the things you can do as parents to support your children and protect them from harm. Topics include: What to do if you suspect your child is being bullied; Understanding and acknowledging their needs; Building selfesteem and confidence; Strategies to help your child stay safe. 7-9pm.

0208 863 7319 info@hopeharrow.org.uk www.hopeharrow.org.uk  Wed 11 May - Museums at Night : Battle of Britain Laid Bare (NW9) The Royal Air Force Museum has started conducting a condition survey of its aircraft as part of the Museum’s on-going plans to commemorate and celebrate the RAF’s Centenary in 2018. Before the aircraft moves begin, visitors will be given a one off and rare opportunity to view the interior of the aircraft collection at this very special ticketed event in the evening. Each aircraft will be manned by a volunteer explainer who will aid your ‘behind the scenes’ experience. 6-8pm. www.rafmuseum.org.uk Wed 11 May – Hillingdon Autistic Care & Support Group (UB3) The Autism Support Group provides an opportunity to speak with a Family Support Worker, find out the latest HACS news, use their resource library, return membership & booking forms and meet other parents/carers. It’s open to ALL parents/carers who are affected by Autism. Morning session 10am 12noon, evening session 6pm - 7:30pm at HACS (Hillingdon Autistic Care & Support), Dudley Place, off Pinkwell Lane , Hayes, UB3 1PB. www.hacs.org.uk Thu 12 May – Thu 14 Jul - Living with a Teenager - A course for parents of teenagers and adolescents 12 years+ (HA1) A weekly course at Hope Harrow. It can be exciting

28

FNWL107.indd 28

and satisfying helping young people grow up into capable independent young adults! During the sessions you can share experiences and look at: Understanding and acknowledging the needs of pre-teens and teenagers; Practicing ways of negotiating and setting limits; Finding different ways to communicate effectively; Explore peer pressure. 7-9pm.

020 8863 7319 info@hopeharrow.org.uk www.hopeharrow.org.uk

 Thu 12 May - Museums at Night: Top Gun VS Top Jets (NW9) 7 jets will be open at the RAF Museum for a ‘hands on’ experience as part of the Museums at Night Festival. Peek inside cockpits and even sit inside a Jet Provost 5. Once you’ve had your fill of fast jets, settle down and watch Top Gun on a big screen in the aircraft hall. 6pm to 10.30pm (film starts at 8.15pm). www.rafmuseum.org.uk Thu 12 May - Next Chapter Support Group (UB10) Next Chapter seeks to support families who are dealing with a negative prognosis for their unborn baby or whose baby has died. They host a monthly drop in support group on a Thursday Evening at the Maternity Unit classroom at Hillingdon Hospital. The group offers you a safe, confidential place to talk about your bereavement journey. It allows you meet others who have experienced bereavement and are experiencing similar challenges. 7-8pm. www.hopecommunity.co.uk Fri 13 May - Managing Fighting and Aggression (NW6) This workshop at Salusbury Primary School explores the reasons why children fight and the parent traps that can accidentally encourage misbehaviour. Parents are shown strategies for teaching sharing and cooperative play and ideas to help children learn how to solve problems nonÐviolently. Techniques for encouraging the right behaviour are discussed along with the importance of responding to aggressive behaviour. A crèche will be available.

9-11am. www.brent.gov.uk  Fri 13 May - Museums at Night: Bank Of England Museum (EC2R) A rare opportunity for an evening visit. As well as the Museum displays, there will be presentations on banknotes, gallery talks and Bank staff will also be on hand to answer questions about gold. 5.30-9pm. www.bankofengland.co.uk Sat 14 May - May Fair (WD17) Go along to a fantastic day out at the Nascot Wood Infant and Junior Schools May Fair 2016. There will be many activities including laser quest, photo booth, inflatables, fair rides, traditional stalls, traders stalls, free fun activities, candy floss, pimms and soft drinks +BBQ. 12-4pm, £1 adults, kids go free. www.nascotwoodjm.herts.sch.uk Sat 14 May - Celebrate Vaisakhi (WD17) Everyone is invited to Watford Palace Theatre to join in and Celebrate Vaisakhi, returning to the Palace for its 6th year. Enjoy an evening of entertainment to celebrate the Sikh New Year and Punjabi Harvest Festival. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk  Sat 14 May - Enchanted Museum: Myths and Magic (HP8) Meet a princess on a real unicorn as well as characters from myths and magical tales in an exciting night-time event at Chiltern Open Air Museum! As part of the national after-dark experience ‘Museums at Night’ the Museum will be open for a unique and exciting family event from 4pm - 8.30pm. Join the knight’s school, take a walk through the woodland where the elves and fairies live and meet some mythical characters along the way. Explore the Museum’s historic buildings lit up by candle, lantern and firelight. Join in the fancy dress competition by dressing as your favourite mythical character; get involved in crafts, games and activities and listen to magical storytelling in the Museum’s Iron Age roundhouse. Take a picnic or treat yourself to freshly-cooked barbeque food as you watch the sun set on the Museum’s Village Green. Advance booking is advised. www.coam.org.uk

Sat 14 – Sun 15 May - Open Weekend at Maple Lodge Nature Reserve (WD3) The reserve is one of Rickmansworth’s hidden secrets and is home to a rich variety of wildlife. On both days guided tours of the reserve will be organised by members of the Maple Lodge Conservation Society. There are two lakes and many hides to be explored around the reserve, some of which have wheelchair access.

Light refreshments will be available all day and there will also be plants, second-hand books and handmade greeting cards on sale. Entry to the reserve and parking will be free of charge. No dogs. www.maplelodge.org Wed 18 May - Flying! A New Cantata for Hillingdon (HA4) In Hillingdon, RAF planes have taken off from Northolt, been co-ordinated from the Uxbridge Bunker and taken millions on holiday from Heathrow. Hillingdon Music Hub presents a brand-new cantata by David Perkins and Caroline Dooley, performed by members of the RAF Regiment Band and sung by eight local schools. At The Great Barn on the Manor Farm Site at 5.15pm & 7.30pm. www.hillingdontheatres.uk Sat 21 – Sun 22 May - Teddy Bears Picnic 2016 (HA4) See the bears of Ruislip, deep in the heart of the woods… by train at Ruislip Lido! As you ride on one of the trains through the woods passengers will be able to see the teddy bears of Ruislip having fun. To make it a little more fun, you’ll be able to purchase a Teddy Bears Picnic quiz, with which you’ll receive an official Ruislip Lido Railway branded pen, a small chocolate bar and the chance to win a family ticket for 4! There’s no need to book in advance, just turn up! 12-5pm. www.ruisliplidorailway.org Sun 22 May - Watford Colour Run (WD6) Go and get colourful at the friendliest and most fun 5k of the year! This family friendly 5k fun run will go through some of the beautiful countryside at Aldenham Country Park, even visiting Winnie the Pooh in the 100 Aker Wood, not forgetting the fun colour stations where everyone gets covered in a sea of multi-coloured powder. As well as the run, they’ll be plenty of other activities to keep everyone entertained with live music, food stalls, games and rides. www.peacehospicecare.org.uk Sun 22 May – Charity Open Day @ Harlington Locomotive Society (UB3) This Charity Open Day on the High St in Harlington is in support of the Diabeticare section at Hillingdon Hospital – a charity which provides support to the many people who have diabetes. On this open day, in addition to the normal running of trains, the Diabeticare team present a selection of stalls to help with their fundraising. www.harlingtonlocomotivesociety.org.uk/ Wed 25 May - Colourdash in aid of Michael Sobell Hospice (UB8) Join in the Michael Sobell Hospice Colourdash event which is being held at Brunel University as part of the Brunel Festival 2016. Run, walk or dance your way around this fun 5km event on the university campus whilst being pelted with non-toxic colour along the route. There will be a party atmosphere with music and refreshments. www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk Fri 27 – Sat 28 May – Greenwich Book Festival (SE10) Royal Museums Greenwich is delighted to be working with the Greenwich Book Festival, part of the Royal Greenwich Festivals, for the second year. Running at the National Maritime Museum, visitors will be able to enjoy workshops, book-themed performances and events with guest authors. For the full programme, please visit the website. www.rmg.co.uk Sat 28 – Sun 29 May Hertfordshire County Show (AL3) Agricultural show & family entertainment at The Showground in Redbourn. Arena displays. National Festival Circus. www.hertsshow.com

Sat 28 May – Sat 4 Jun - Botanical Bentley Art Workshop (HA7) Take part in this art workshop inspired by the Bentley Priory Museum’s beautiful gardens. The artwork created will form part of a temporary exhibition. 11am-3pm. www.bentleypriorymuseum.org.uk Mon 30 May - Denham Village Fayre (UB9) A Charter Fair with its origins in the 15th century when a market was held in Cheapside Lane, this is a big event with something for everyone. Expect to find vintage cars, many stalls, brass band, Punch & Judy, fairground rides and amusements, steam train rides, jazz band, beekeeper, art exhibition all kinds of refreshments and much more. 10am-4pm. www.denhamvillagefayre.org.uk Mon 30 May - Watford Celebration 2016 (WD18) Watford’s colourful multicultural free annual festival, taking place at the Multi Cultural Community Centre in Watford. There will be performances of music, dance and drama, as well as demonstrations of martial and other arts, international lunch time food from the communities in Watford, activities for children including a bouncy castle, activity tables, model railway and face painting, and a quiet sacred space area for the sharing of beliefs and faiths. Free refreshments all day. All are welcome from 12-4pm. www.watfordcelebration.com

June Every Friday from 3 Jun - 15 Jul – Sunset Safari @ ZSL London Zoo (NW1) Always wanted to glimpse a lion prowling its territory at twilight? Or imagined watching penguins splash around at dusk? ZSL London Zoo can make your dreams come true this summer with the return of Sunset Safari. Visitors can choose to embark on self-guided Safari Trails where they’ll see the Zoo’s magnificent animals, from the feathered to the furry, and take in a packed programme of animal feeds and fascinating talks. As the sun finally sets over the Zoo, set up camp with your fellow explorers to listen to a peaceful acoustic guitar performance - providing an idyllic end to what promises to be an unforgettable evening. www.zsl.org Sat 4 Jun - Harrow United Deaf Club’s International Festival (HA1) This International Festival aims to bring diverse communities together to celebrate their cultures.

The exciting programme on the day including a fantastic range of information, cultural stalls, guest speakers on international themes, performers/ show and mouth-watering international cuisines.

The entrance to the event is free for all, please join in the celebration by wearing cultural dress/ international costumes of your choice. 4-9pm at Harrow Civic Centre. www.harrow.gov.uk Sat 4 Jun - Summer Picnic and Dog Show (HA5) This year’s Summer Picnic at Eastcote House Gardens will feature a Dog Show, with categories such as Prettiest Lady, Handsomest Male and Supreme Champion! Entry £1 on the day, all welcome! 2pm. www.eastcotehousegardens.weebly.com Sun 5 Jun - Race for Life 5K (UB8) Join in the Cancer Research Race for Life 5k event at Hillingdon House Farm Sports Ground. 5k is an achievable distance for all ages and abilities and you can run, walk or even dance your way round the course. www.raceforlife.cancerresearchuk.org Sun 5 Jun - Junior Bike Ride and Run Ride Run (WD6) Dust off your bikes, grab your helmets and gather your friends for a fun-filled mad dash to the finish at the 2016 JBR Challenge, helping Norwood to support thousands of children and adults who rely on their support.

There’s a choice of a 5 mile or 10 mile route in and around the beautiful Aldenham Country Park.

Race against your friends, cycle through the mud, get down and dirty in the finishing straight - it’s competitive, it’s tough, it’s one massively exciting adventure www.norwood.org.uk

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

29/04/2016 12:13

What’s On Tue 7 Jun - Hillingdon’s Carer Fair (UB8) Hillingdon’s Carer Fair at the Pavilions Shopping Centre is an annual event organised

by Hillingdon Carers, in partnership with LBH Carers Commissioner. It is to celebrate the work of unpaid carers during National Carers Week and to bring together many of the voluntary and statutory organisations that provide help, support, information and services to carers. The aim of the Carers Fair is to raise the awareness of these carers in the borough and to also help the passerby recognise that they might be a carer, even though they do the job out of love and devotion. www.hillingdoncarers.org.uk From Wed 8 Jun – Lego Birthday Party for the Queen (SL4) To mark The Queen’s 90th birthday, the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort is throwing Her Majesty a street party on The Mall just like the official planned ‘Patron’s Lunch’ celebrations – only in miniature and made from LEGO®! Like the full size party, the mini version, created in intricate detail from thousands of individual LEGO bricks, will feature rows and rows of picnic tables laden with hampers and champers, Union Jack flags flying and bunting decorations.

More than 600 LEGO Minilander guests will be in attendance, representing the charities patronised

by The Queen who will be at the Parton’s Lunch.

And, of course, guests of honour ‘The Miniland Royal Family’ will be at the heart of the action. www.legoland.co.uk Fri 10 Jun - Ladies in the Night Walk (HA6) Join this very special community event and walk through the night this summer to support your local hospice. The event starts and finishes at Michael Sobell Hospice in Northwood and takes place on well-lit local roads, with ample marshalls in place. Walkers can choose from either a 5.5 or 9 mile route. www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk Sat 11 – Sun 19 Jun – Ickenham Festival (UB10) The Festival gives everyone an opportunity to join their community and enjoy themselves whilst learning more about the many

local organisations and businesses. Events taking place during the week include Festival Gala Day and the Festival Ruby Ball. www.ickenhamfestival.org.uk

Sat 11 – Sun 19 Jun – Children’s Art Week (various) This June sees the welcome return of Children’s Art Week with interactive events across the nation to encourage children of all ages to get creative. From Scotland to Cornwall event organisers are creating topical & relevant activities to inspire children to get involved in making art of all kinds. Find out what’s on locally by visiting the Children’s Art Week website www.childrensartweek.org.uk Sun 12 Jun - Open Day (UB10) Go and take a look around the Grade II listed house, Ickenham Hall. There will be talks about the history and renovation of the building at 1pm, repeated at 3pm. www.hillingdontheatres.uk Mon 13 Jun – Mon 18 Jul - Anger Management for Parents & Teens Together (HA1) During this 6 week course you will look at improving understanding of anger and share tips and strategies on how to enhance relationships. The majority of the course is run with parents and teens in separate rooms, joining the groups at times to work together. The aim of the course is to help with managing difficult, often destructive behaviours and emotions, through a better understanding of anger, helping to create a happy, cooperative, cohesive home environment.

Spaces are limited and are on a first come, first served basis. 7-8.30pm at Hope Harrow.

020 8863 7319 info@hopeharrow.org.uk www.hopeharrow.org.uk Fri 17 – Sat 18 Jun – Den Day (various) Why not get everyone in your family, school, nursery or group to build a den for Save the Children’s Den Day – it’s an amazing way for children to raise money that will transform lives! www.denday.savethechildren.org.uk continued on page 30 v

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

FNWL107.indd 29

29

29/04/2016 12:13

What’s On continued from page 29

Sat 18 Jun - Formula 1 challenge for Father’s Day (HA8) The Broadwalk Shopping Centre in Edgware is hosting a special Scalextric challenge for shoppers and their families in celebration of Father’s Day the following day.

Shoppers are invited to ‘get behind the wheel’ and test out their driving skills on the shopping centre’s very own giant Scalextric track from 12-4pm. www.thebroadwalkcentre.co.uk Sat 18 Jun - The Jungle Book 3D (WD17) A Watford Palace Family Screening Raised by a family of wolves since birth, Mowgli must leave the only home he’s ever known when the fearsome tiger Shere Khan unleashes his mighty roar. Guided by a stern panther and a free-spirited bear, the young boy meets an array of jungle animals. Along the way, Mowgli learns valuable life lessons as his epic journey of selfdiscovery leads to fun and adventure. 11am www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk Sat 18 Jun - NCT Harrow Nearly New Sale (HA3) Nearly New Sales help parents to save money by picking up bargains, help other parents make money by selling good quality baby and kids items they no longer need and encourage re-use. At Kenton Evangelical Church. www.nct.org.uk Sat 18 Jun - Open Garden Squares Weekend (NW9) Inside Roe Green Park, the victorian walled garden was built in 1899 for the London residence of the Duchess of Sutherland. One of 220 gardens taking part in Open Garden Squares Weekend, the garden will be in full flower, with two ponds, children’s activities, stalls and homemade refreshments. 11am-4.30pm. www.opensquares.org Sat 18 Jun - Summer Fayre at Pield Heath House School (UB8) Free admission to this Summer Fayre where there will be activities for all the family including face painting, children s fancy dress competition, gift stalls, live music and refreshments. Everyone is welcome! All monies raised will be used to support the school’s students with special needs 11am-3.30pm. www.pieldheathschool.org.uk Sat 18 – Sun 19 Jun - The Mill Hill Town and Country Show (NW7) The Mill Hill Town and Country Show at Mill Hill Park will be bringing many new and exciting attractions this year, from the amazing Stunt Monkeys with top British Riding Team to the wonderful World of Birds demonstrating flying with vultures, storks and parakeets. There will be Food and Drink Markets, the Classic British Bake Off and most importantly, a children’s Horticultural Tent. Throughout the day there will be many exciting cookery demonstrations from some fantastic Chefs and a talk area packed full of interesting talks. www.millhillcountryshow.co.uk Sun 19 Jun - Shenley Village Fete (WD7) At Harris Lane Playing Field - arena displays, stalls, games & fun for all the family.

12.30pm. www.shenleyvillage.org Mon 20 – Sun 26 Jun - Barnardo’s Big Toddle Week 2016 (various) Join the UK’s biggest and best charity event for under 5s . Every year, thousands of young children take part

in sponsored walks to help the UK’s most vulnerable children. 2016’s Toddle is animal-themed. As it’s also Barnardo’s 150th anniversary, they’ll send you an exclusive fundraising pack when you register. www.barnardos.org.uk/bigtoddle

treasure and hidden it around the London Wetlands Centre. Help the Captain find his treasure in return for a piece of his gold. Go dressed as your favourite pirate for fun! www.wwt.org.uk

Wed 22 Jun - Sibling Rivalry (HA1) A workshop for parents of children aged 3-11 years. Tired of your children fighting! Are you constantly trying to keep the peace? Topics include: Understanding and acknowledging the needs of siblings; Finding various strategies to help our children communicate effectively; Discovering different ways to encourage your children to cooperate 7-9pm at Hope Harrow.

0208 863 7319 info@hopeharrow.org.uk www.hopeharrow.org.uk

Sat 28 May – Sat 5 Jun - Spring Special at Willows Activity Farm (AL2) Sheep shearing, sheep racing and acres of springtime fun from 10am-5.30pm. www.willowsactivityfarm.com

Sat 25 Jun - Watford Rural Parish Council Summer Fun Day (WD19) Taking place at St Andrew’s Parade in South Oxhey - there will be a fairground, kiddie rides, Bungee Fly, Bouncy Castle, Bucking Bronco, Face Painting, Balloonist, Stalls & Raffle. 11am-3pm. watfordrural-pc.org.uk Sun 26 Jun - The Buttercup Walk (HA7) A sponsored 1-mile walk through the grounds of Stanmore hospital, with all of the money raised on the day going towards the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital. The attractions and entertainments on offer include children’s rides, a wide range of stalls, a live band and a dog show. www.rnohcharity.org

Half Term Sat 28 May – Sat 5 June - Tattoo T-Shirts: Davy Jones’s Locker @ HMS Belfast (SE1) Impress your friends and family by designing your very own t-shirt, inspired by traditional navy tattoos, nautical superstitions and the sailor legend of Davy Jones’s Locker. While you’re getting creative, you’ll learn more about life on board HMS Belfast, the history of navy tattoos, what the symbols mean and why as a sailor you wouldn’t want to be visiting Davy Jones’s Locker in a hurry! www.iwm.org.uk Sat 28 May – Sat 5 Jun - Art Workshop: Drawing a Somme Flipbook (SE1) To mark the 100th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme, head along to the Imperial War Museum for a drawing workshop to create a silhouette of a British ‘Tommy’ soldier which will be added to the animated flipbook throughout half term. The flipbook will then be able to view online later in June, helping to mark this important anniversary. 11am – 4pm. www.iwm.org.uk Sat 28 May – Sat 5 Jun - May Half Term Family Activities: The Poster Party (WC2E) Visit London Transport Museum for storytime sessions and creative workshops for families. Little ones can get artistic with foam block printing inspired by the Museum’s iconic posters, and make their own postcard to take home, or listen to a fun storytime session about the loveable pelican Mr Beak. www.ltmusuem.co.uk Sat 28 May – Sat 5 Jun - Pirate Treasure Hunt (SW13) Captain Blackbird’s motley animal crew have stolen his precious

Mon 30 May - Meet PAW Patrol’s Marshall and Chase (HA8) Children’s TV characters Marshall and Chase from PAW Patrol will be will be appearing at the Broadway Shopping Centre in Edgware. Children are invited to go and meet the heroic puppies who will be making appearances during story time sessions, led by a narrator. After listening to engaging stories of Chase and Marshall’s adventures, youngsters will also have the opportunity to meet the characters! www.thebroadwalkcentre.co.uk Mon 30 & Tue 31 May - Dancing Sailors (SE10) Stamp your feet and clap your hands, Cutty Sark’s sailors are having a dance. Make a colourful sailor puppet to dance around the ship and take home to play with. 11.30am-1.30pm & 2-4pm at Cutty Sark. www.rmg.co.uk Mon 30 May – Wed 1 Jun – The Sky Kids Café (W1F) For half term family fun, Sky presents the first ever kids TV themed play & cafe experience. The Sky Kids Café will offer arts and crafts, and three imaginative play areas for children to discover. They will be able to explore SpongeBob’s underwater world, complete with his Pineapple House and colourful sea creatures, enter the haunted house and help to solve Scooby-Doo mysteries, and jump into Ben & Holly’s oversized Little Kingdom with magic wands and fairy dust trails. Children and parents will also enjoy flavourful fun through a special food and drinks menu created by celebrity chef and mother Lisa Faulkner.

Recommended for pre-schoolers - 9 years old, the Café can be found at The Vinyl Factory, 18 Marshall St, London W1F 7BE. www.skykidscafe.eventbrite.co.uk Mon 30 May – Sat 4 Jun - HalfTerm Activities @ National Maritime Museum (SE10) To celebrate the opening of new exhibition, Above and Beyond, learn about space, ships and spaceships as you take part in this workshop and help build amazing top-secret flying, floating and sinking machines.

11am-1.30pm & 1.30-4pm. www.rmg.co.uk Tue 31 May - We Do Like to be Beside the Seaside! (NW6/9) Craft events for children taking place at Kilburn Library and Kingsbury Library. Create a 3D beach or underwater scene. Plus exciting raffles prizes for book borrowing. www.brent.gov.uk

Sun 29 May, Wed 1 & Thu 2 Jun – Watford Palace Theatre Family Screenings (WD17) Head along to Watford Palace Theatre to see a 3D screening Zootropolis at 2pm on Sun 29 May, Kung Fu Panda 3 in 3D at 2pm on Wed 1 June, and Norm of the North at 2pm on Thurs 2 June.. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk Mon 30 – Thu 2 Jun - Bug Hunting In Tring Park (HP23) Discover where bugs live and how they move at Tring Natural History Museum. For 5+ yrs, advance booking required. www.nhm.ac.uk/tring Mon 30 May – Fri 3 Jun - Half term activities @ V&A Museum of Childhood (E2) Includes Moving Museum, Crazy Jumping Jacks Workshop, Speaking Sculpture Workshop and more. www.vam.ac.uk Tue 31 May - Fired Treasures Fun Day Supporting Spread a Smile (NW7) Half-Term Fun Day - pottery painting, face painting and children’s entertainers. 10am-5.30pm at Fired Treasures, 143 Dollis Road. www.spreadasmile.org Tue 31 May – Thu 2 Jun - Family Half Term Activities @ The Chelsea Physic Garden (SW3) An assortment of drop-in activities for families including Chocolate Tuesday, Puppetry in Motion, Marvellous Masks and Thinking With Your Nose: an introduction to plant perfumes. Times and ages vary. www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk Tue 31 May – Fri 3 Jun - Picture Perfect (EC2R) Be inspired by the Capturing the City: Photography at the Bank of England exhibition, create your own memories by becoming the face of a current banknote with the giant banknote photo board. 10.30am-4.30pm. www.bankofenglandmuseum.co.uk Thu 2 Jun - Family Discovery Morning (AL1) Learn all about the history of pilgrimage & other journeys with a fun trail to follow & activities to do at St Albans Cathedral. Ages 3-11 (adult must stay). 10am-12.30pm. Arrive before 11.30am to complete all the activities. www.stalbanscathedral.org Sat 4 Jun - Novotel Super Heroes Day (HA9) The hotel group in Wembley is inviting parents and their little super heroes to enjoy a world of fun and imagination at their free family event. From fighting to saving the planet, undertaking missions from the Craft Captain to creating some tasty delights, there is a whole host of activities available for children aged 5 to 11 years old. All activities are designed so that parents can participate with their little heroes. Everyone gets a goodie bag filled with products that every super hero will be excited by. Book your space on the website. www.novotelheroes.co.uk

www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

for many more local events and diary dates for the whole family!

To advertise your business with us call or email; 01923 237 004 Editor@FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk SPEECH & LANGUAGE THERAPIST An independent service covering a range of Children’s communication difficulties.

Contact THE NORTHWOOD PRACTICE MRCSLT, HPC

Call 01923 824074

30

FNWL107.indd 30

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

29/04/2016 12:14

C

What’s New Dummies Junior Titles

Aimed at readers aged seven to eleven, these 3 new books offer a fun and easy introduction to skills and subjects for the digital generation Getting Started with Coding: Get Creative with Code! by Camille McCue Over the course of three easy-to-follow projects, young readers can create a computer game, simulation and design tool.

Modding Minecraft: Build Your Own Minecraft Mods! by Sarah Guthals PhD, Stephen Foster, PhD and Lindsey Handley, PhD. This book Walks young readers through three basic game modification projects that outline how to create games and worlds in Minecraft.

Making You Tube Videos: Star in Your Own Video! by Nick Willoughby Introduces young people to the skills required to shoot, edit and share video on the channel. RRP £8.99 All three titles are available as books and e-books. www.amazon.co.uk

My Doodles Shark Range Headphone

Introducing 85 dB Headphones with sound limiting technology to protect little ears and a lightweight, foldable design. These durable and attractive headphones are great for ages 3+ RRP £15 available from most high street and online retailers.

The UK Bubblebum brand launches the Junkie!

For the gamer in your life!

ESTRADO Headset Stand

Protect your headset, tidy your desktop and prevent cable breaks. Features an integrated passive USB hub with 3 USB 2.0 ports as well as a USB sound card with audio output and microphone input. RRP: £29.99 Amazon

MEDUSA STREET XE True Surround Headset

A true all-rounder – perfect for use with a laptop, tablet or smartphone. Use all forms of modern communication and have your favourite tunes wherever you go.

RRP: £29.99 from Amazon and Scan Computers

Times Tables Tutor - Roar ahead with Times Tables This pack of cards from the Natural History Museum shop includes a fun range of games to help kids aged 5+ get their claws into times tables, using a quirky dinosaur twist.

RRP: £7 at www.nhmshop.co.uk

Kinsa Smart Thermometer

The ideal backseat organiser! Featuring a “tech mount”, two retractable activity trays, cup holders and a removable tote bag which fits into the expanding central compartment to keep snacks cool and toys handy. Easily removable to transport all your junk from home to car. Junkie is secured using the vehicle seat belt and folds back easily to its original size for storage. RRP £39.99 Available from www.bubblebum.co.uk

New range of great value Disney watches!

Jewellery store Chapelle at London Designer Outlet has launched a fantastic collection of Disney Watches. Designs include Frozen, Little Mermaid, Cinderella, Spiderman and Star Wars. Ideally designed and priced for first time watch wearers. LDO is located in Wembley Park and offers over 50 stores to suit the whole family, with up to 70% off RRP year round. RRP from £8.99

FDA approved, the smart thermometer connects via the headphone jack in iPhone or Android smartphones and uses the phone to determine a precise temperature reading in less than 10 seconds. The free Kinsa app allows parents to keep track of the whole family’s progress: creating individual profiles, noting illness history and when medicine was last prescribed. The fun bubble popping on the screen helps little ones pass the time white waiting for the beep!

RRP: £24.99 www.Mothercare.com and in stores

COMPETITIONS WIN! Tickets to see Tall Stories’ The Gruffalo live in the WEST END! THE GRUFFALO LIVE From 6 July. Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue BOOK NOW 0330 333 4812 www.gruffalolive.com Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in Tall Stories’ magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Searching for hazelnuts, Mouse meets the cunning Fox, the eccentric old Owl and the party mad Snake. Will the story of the terrifying Gruffalo save Mouse from ending up as dinner for these hungry woodland creatures? After all, there’s no such thing as a Gruffalo – is there? Songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 3 and up and their grown-ups, in the much-loved show that’s toured Britain and the world!

Running time 55 minutes (no interval)

To celebrate The Gruffalo Live’s 15th Birthday this May, Families magazine has one VIP family ticket (admits 4) to give away!

To win just answer this question…

Q - How many times is Mouse pictured in this issue of Families North West London Magazine?

Find them all and enter the answer via our website entry form no later than midnight 9 June 2016.

Terms & Conditions: The ticket prize admits 4 (min 1 adult) to see Tall Stories’ The Gruffalo Live at the Lyric Theatre Shaftesbury Avenue for performances between 4 – 24 July (min 1 adult) and must be redeemed by 24 June. Tickets are non-transferable and hold no cash value.

WIN! A set of 11+ Vocabulary Flash Cards and improve your vocabulary in a flash We have a complete set by Farquhar’s Vocabulary Flash Cards worth £52.99 to win!

Looking to boost your child’s vocabulary ahead of the 11+ exam? The exam demands strong vocabulary and comprehension skills.

Farquhar’s Vocabulary Flash Cards have been specifically created to improve children’s verbal reasoning skills and ultimately help them succeed in the 11+ Entrance Examination.

Featuring carefully selected words collated from recognised 11+ material, the cards will build confidence and vocabulary knowledge at the appropriate level tested in the 11+ Entrance Examination. Easily portable in small sets, they are perfect for vocabulary practice on the go. They can be used in many ways – as classic flash cards, stuck up as words of the week, or a tool to make up your own games to challenge friends and family. Flash cards are a powerful learning tool; simple and versatile and used regularly will boost both confidence and results.

For more information visit: www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk Registered with the UK Copyright Service 2012 Reg. no. 284654523

COMPETITION TERMS AND CONDITIONS 1. Only one entrant from same e-mail address or household will be accepted. 2. Under 16s must obtain parental consent before entering. 3. Entries must be received by the closing date and proof of sending cannot be taken as proof of receipt. 4. Winning entries will be randomly drawn from all correct entries. 5. All decisions of Families Magazine are final and no correspondence will be entered into.

6. No prize is exchangeable for cash or any other prize. 7. Winners’ details will be supplied to the Promoter of the competition. 8. Families Magazine is not liable for any delay or failure by the Promoter to deliver any prize or for the quality of the prize or for any loss or damage arising in connection with the competition. 9. By entering the competition, entrants will be deemed to have accepted and agreed to these terms.

Families North West London is designed by Lisa Bibby and printed by Warners. Copyright Families North West Magazine 2016. Families North West is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families ® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families North West London are fully protected by copyright and non of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

North West London MAY/JUNE 2016

FNWL107.indd 31

31

29/04/2016 12:14

FNWL107.indd 32

29/04/2016 12:14