Families NW London Magazine issue 110 Oct 2016

Issue 110: October 2016 www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk

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

Education and Schools Feature Issue!

PLUS

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

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North West London OCTOBER 2016

Welcome to the October 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.FamiliesOnline.co.uk

IN THIS ISSUE:

4 Local News

7 Handling Homework

8 Make the most of school visits

www.facebook.com/ FamiliesNWLondon

@FamiliesNW Circulation 30,000+ copies every issue.

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

10 Open Days

12 Local Clubs, Classes and Activities

14 Children’s Theatre

16 What’s On

UPCOMING ISSUES: Nov/Dec 2016 Seasonal Celebrations Deadline: 10th October 2016 Send in your news, stories and advertising bookings to the details left.

Where is Families North West London?

Cover image: Depositphotos.com

Feature images used under license from depositphotos.com.

Other images have been supplied by independent sources.

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

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

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

Distributed to over 30,000 families!

www.activetime.co.uk North West London OCTOBER 2016

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NEWS Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts – Official Guinness World Record Holder On Monday 29th August 2016 at Watersmeet theatre in Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts successfully broke the official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the fastest theatrical production with their performance of ANNIE. The challenge involved staging a full show of at least 90 minutes in length from start to finish. At 6am the Sharpe Academy creative team was presented with a sealed box containing the musical to be performed.

No member of the creative team, cast nor crew, knew what this would be. The musical was selected by the rights providers at Josef Weinberger Ltd. The team, along with a cast of 110 children aged 6-18, then set about production meetings, auditions and casting, costume and set design, props, direction, choreography, musical direction, putting together a live band, lighting and sound design, all in the presence of an adjudicator from Guinness World Records.

Upon completion of the rehearsal process, the doors were opened to the public for the performance. At the end of the show, the full company was delighted to be presented with a certificate stating they had successfully set a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS achievement of 15 hours for the Fastest theatrical production.

The previous record of 22 hours was achieved by Youth Theatre Performerz (UK) in association with MRL productions (UK) on 1 April 2012. www.sharpeacademy.co.uk or www.guinessworldrecords.com

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Doing It For The Kids:

Humphrey’s Pyjama Week Returns!

Humphrey’s Pyjama Week returns from 3rd - 7th October – with a chance for nurseries, playgroups, primary schools and mother & toddler groups to get their pjs on and raise money for The Children’s Trust.

For a voluntary donation of £2, youngsters, staff and parents can wear their favourite pyjamas for one day during the week and organise themed events, such as best dressed competitions and slumber party games. Money raised will go towards research, rehabilitation, care and support for children with brain injury and their families.

Participants who register at thechildrenstrust.org.uk/humphrey will receive an event pack which includes Humphrey’s stickers, posters, a certificate for each child and a story booklet. Families has had a bit of a sneak preview of the pack, and it is full of activities such as Hide & Seek quizzes, maze games and colouring activities – perfect for entertaining little ones Register now to get a fundraising pack and start planning a week of pyjama fun! thechildrenstrust.org.uk/humphrey or email: humphrey@thechildrenstrust.org.uk

NEWS Children’s Ward seeking local volunteers The Carer Support Team on the Starfish Children’s Ward at Watford General Hospital is looking for new volunteers to work with them for 3 hours per week for a period of at least one year.

The Ward is usually very busy with twenty-one beds for children aged up to sixteen years old. Most admissions are unplanned; carers often lack a 24/7 support network; some have limited English. All carers are stressed and face sitting beside their sick child for indeterminable periods of time. The Team gives practical support to make this anxious time easier for carers and their families. A Team volunteer may sit with a child while a carer showers, help a carer compile questions for the consultant, provide toiletries to a family, organise a translator and/or provide information about the hospital.

On a recent visit in 2015, The Care Quality Commission referred to the Team as an “Outstanding practice…Parents we spoke with told us the practical and emotional support provided by the volunteers was valued by them.” The Team has grown from 1 volunteer to 11 volunteers in less than 3 years. It aims to have 15 volunteers by 2017 so that it provides approximately one hour of support per carer per week. All applicants will be asked to complete a written application, and if successful, they will be asked to a brief interview before being selected as a member of the Team.

Anyone who is interested in learning more about this opportunity is asked to send their contact details via email to: cst.starfishward@ gmail.com and the Team Manager will get in touch with you.

Jigsaw Arts, Finalists at this year’s Lloyds Bank National Business Awards, is offering 2 week trials

Jigsaw has offered weekend performing arts classes to children aged 3-18 across London and the Home Counties for over 20 years but 2016 in particular has been an exciting year for the company, seeing them shortlisted for The Business Award for Arts and Creative Services in the 2016 Lloyds Bank National Business Awards.

To support those children wanting to try performing arts classes for the first time this September, Jigsaw offer a two week trial, giving the student the opportunity to try Jigsaw and find out if the classes are what they are looking for – providing peace of mind for parents, and participants alike!

Visit www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk for more information, or call 0208 4474530 and book a two week trial today.

Not for girls, not for boys, Polarn O. Pyret make clothes for children 15% Discount for Families readers (code FAM15)!

Scandinavians are renowned for their functional design and progressive social attitudes. The top four ranking countries for gender equality are all Scandinavian.

How does this translate into clothing for babies and children? Leading childrenswear brand, Polarn O. Pyret of Sweden, have been designing unisex clothing for over 40 years with a philosophy to ‘let children be children’. Famous for their classic stripes in navy and red, Polarn O. Pyret’s head designer Karina Lundell states “There is no difference in the body-shape of girls and boys until around age 12 years. So we design most of our clothing to be worn by children, not just boys or girls. What colour they choose is up to them!” Unisex clothing is easier to hand down and PO.P is renowned for durability, the clothes are made to be worn by as many children as possible, not just one. The cost-per-wear value goes up and impact on the environment goes down. Find your favourite unisex styles be they; stripes, animal prints, motors, sweet treats, cityscapes, sharks, beach scenes or just a plain colour from any part of the PO.P rainbow. You choose.

Don’t forget to use your exclusive POLARN O. PYRET 15% off discount code ‘FAM15’ to save on the latest Scandi styles! www.polarnopyret.co.uk

North West London OCTOBER 2016

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Education

Teaching Your Child to

Love Independent Reading

By Justine Crow

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child can’t have too much to read and it is never too early to get them interested, so start them young and allow them to engage with the concept of picture books, not only as something to share but also as an object of comfort and ownership.

Books are different to any other form of entertainment; they can be bitten, dropped and bashed but they require a physical and intellectual participation that will be carried through a whole life of learning.

Keep screens for the mundane, for emergencies and homework, as it is pretty hard to ‘love’ an e-reader or to ‘treasure’ a download - how can a beloved library be built out of something that cannot be ‘seen?’

You can enhance the magic by taking the family to choose stories themselves - but don’t limit them; novels, comics, non-fiction, these all count as reading and encourage them to feel proud of how much they achieve themselves. In the meantime, if you show your children how much you appreciate the luxury of reading alone, they will emulate you.

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Start them young. Board books, cloth books, lift the tab.

Let them bite and chew and tear.

Encourage babes to turn the pages themselves. It will help develop fine motor skills.

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With siblings around, especially newborns, have a box of books the older child can escape to. Tell them it is theirs and nobody else’s.

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When they are small, keep tablets and phones solely for games –preferably educational ones.

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The switch from picture books to chapters is an exciting rite of passage. Celebrate by going to the library or bookshop and allowing them to choose stories to try.

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Get them to make a bookmark and feel proud of how many pages they clock up without interruption.

Leave them to it but accept that kids love a bedtime story whatever their age - I know a woman who still reads to her teenagers. As an adult, there is nothing quite like the sheer heavenliness of being left in private with something thrilling and absorbing.

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Get it right and they’ll long for that sensation all their lives. However, nagging your offspring to read will have the opposite effect – this is one of the proven laws of parenting, after all. Now do you mind, I’ve got a chapter to finish…

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Many favourite authors are available in accessible comic book form, especially the classics.

Lead by example – if your children sees you finding a corner and a book to retreat with, they will follow.

Don’t push them to read at bedtime when eyes and minds may be tired. Offer to finish a chapter aloud for them instead.

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Don’t force them, ever. Reverse psychology is a wonderful device.

Justine Crow is the author of The Little Book of Nits published by Bloomsbury. Parent of three, she owns her own bookshop with her partner, The Bookseller Crow on Hill, and is a qualified swimming teacher. And in what little spare time she has, she also runs gastronomic writing retreat courses in France and is the food critic of The Transmitter.

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

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

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

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Education

A Guide to

Handling Homework

Helping your little one with their homework needn’t be difficult if you follow these simple tips.

L

ike it or not, homework is a reality of school life for most and it can bring benefits: helping you see what your children have been doing in class, understanding their strengths and weaknesses and reinforcing learning.

So how can you make homework run as smoothly as possible and avoid it becoming a chore for the whole family?

Incorporate homework into a routine Many children benefit from having a set homework time - they’re somewhat less likely to push back if it is just what happens at 5pm.

However you might both prefer homework to be completed at the earliest opportunity so they can go off and relax, or favour a spell of winding down after school – simply see what works for your child. If, like many primary schoolers, they only get one or two pieces of homework a week, it might be best to tackle it at the weekend when they’re not tired from school.

Help, yes, but don’t do it for them As a parent your key role is to ensure that your child has somewhere comfortable and quiet to do their homework and the items required, e.g. a dictionary or ruler. You may also need to clarify what a question means or provide support if they’re stuck.

But do remember it’s their homework, to consolidate their learning, not yours – if you’re having to do it all for them on a regular basis, it may be too difficult for your little one - discuss this with their teacher.

How much is too much?

Most primary age children will get 30 to 60 minutes a week plus reading and perhaps spellings and times tables. If you think your child is being set too much homework, again, it’s definitely worth having a chat with their teacher. Additionally, if it’s taking what you feel is an inappropriate amount of time on a particular day, don’t be afraid to stop and write him or her a note along the lines of ‘X spent an hour doing this and we felt it was enough’.

Good home-school communitcation is key for a successful homework experience.

Don’t be afraid to address issues and do it early on – don’t worry, you won’t get detention for 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 OCTOBER 2016

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Aldenham School

Education

How School Visits can help you choose a school

By Liat Hughes Joshi

by Katie Krais, JK Educate

E

valuating your child’s options for senior school can be stressful, and the myriad sources of school information available can make choosing a school for your child quite bewildering.

From league tables, GCSE and A level results and university places, to Ofsted or Independent Schools Council (ISC) inspection reports, ‘word of mouth’ and the school website, each piece of information can help you form an opinion. However, visiting the school in person and speaking to teachers, pupils and the head teacher

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North West London OCTOBER 2016

can dramatically change any pre-formed opinions, whilst being the hardest thing to objectively analyse.

What to look for at school visits

Take time to weigh up all the different aspects of the school before making important decisions. Take your child with you on visits and watch their responses to the school as you move around it: do they seem engaged, relaxed and enthusiastic?

First impressions are very important. Just like buying a new house, you will get an immediate feel for a school, based on its architecture, atmosphere and people.

• Are the premises well maintained, safe and clean?

• Does the head seem at ease with the children - and know their names?

• Do the children interact well with their teachers?

• Are teachers shouting?

• Are pupils busy working independently?

• Are pupils’ books marked with constructive comments and suggestions?

Education

“First impressions are very important. Just like buying a new house, you will get an immediate feel for a school…”

• Are children given targets?

• Does the school offer a wide variety of extra curricular activities?

• Visiting the children’s toilets can tell you a lot about the school - what are they like?

Questions to ask staff at school visits • Would you send your child to this school?

• How do you deal with bullying?

• Do classrooms look bright and cheery? Are the displays recent and representative of all children’s work?

• Is discipline a problem at this school?

It is best to visit three or four schools to enable you to compare the options and to consider which one would best suit your child.

• What are the class sizes and how are they organised?

To get an accurate reflection of everyday school life, try to visit during a normal school day and not just on a special Open Day, so that you can see the children and teachers at work.

• Staff and pupil turnover • Strengths and weaknesses of the school

• What is the cultural/religious mix of the school and how is this reflected in the curriculum?

• Does the school have any special resources that might fit your child’s interests, e.g. a music recording suite or photography room?

• Is there an after school or homework club?

• Is there an active PTA?

Questions to ask pupils at school visits • What are the best and worst things about this school?

• Are you happy here?

• What happens if you misbehave?

• Have you ever had to deal with bullying?

• How do you travel to and from school?

• How easy was it to transfer from primary school?

Schools have different styles and it is important to choose one where your child feels comfortable and motivated.

For example, some children prefer being big fish in small ponds; others prefer being small fish in big ponds. It is easy to be impressed by excellent grounds and facilities, but try to stay focussed on what is important for the development of your own child’s needs when choosing a school.

Remember: the “best school” is always the school that best suits your individual child: academically, socially, ethically and geographically!

by Katie Krais, JK Educate 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 JK on 020 3488 0754 or via jkeducate.co.uk

North West London OCTOBER 2016

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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 15 Oct, 10am-12.30pm. Wed 19 Oct, 9.3011.30am Prep School 01923 851664. Senior School 01923 858122

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

Open Day: By appointment 0208 427 1471

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

Open Day: By appointment 020 8960 5899 to register

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

Open Morning: By appointment. 020 89043615

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

Open Day: Wed 12 Oct. 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: Jun Sch - Sat 8 Oct 10am-12.30pm. Sen Sch – Thu 6 Oct – 9.30-11am. Sat 8 Oct 2-5pm. Wed 9 Nov 9.30-11am.

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: Tue 8 Nov, Tue 24 Jan 2017 – 9.15 & 10.15am. 01923 681103

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

Open Day: Sat 1 Oct – 10am-1pm. 020 8515 9400

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

Open Day: Wed 16 Nov, Wed 30 Nov, Wed 7 Dec, all 9.3011am. 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.mtpn.org.uk www.mtsn.org.uk

Open Day: Fri 7 Oct, 9.45am-12pm (Yr1-8); 13&14 Oct,9.3011am (nursery & rcptn) Senior School by appointment.

01923 825648 (Rickmansworth) 01923 845514 (Northwood)

Tell them you saw it in

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North West London OCTOBER 2016

Magazine!

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

Open Day: Fri 7 Oct; Mon 10 Oct; Thu 3 Nov (4+ and 7+) Tue 11 Oct (11+). 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: Sat 1 Oct, 9.30am-1pm. Wed 16 Nov, 9.30-11am 01923 825446.

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

Open Day: Sat 8 Oct 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: By appointment. 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: Sun 9 Oct, 2-5pm. 01923 725354

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

Open Day: Wed 9 Nov; Wed 7 Dec, all 9.30-10.30am. 020 7932 1178

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

Boarding/Day. www.spsch.org

Open Day: By appointment 01923 673268

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

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8902 5069

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

Open Day: By appointment. 01923 255 017

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

Open Day: Wed 2 & Tue 3 Nov, 9.30am-12pm (whole sch) 01923 843230

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

Open Day: Sat 8 Oct. 0208 950 1751

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

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

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

Open Day: Thu 3 Nov, 9.15am-12.30pm 020 8901 0872

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

Open Day: Sat 1 Oct, 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 21 Oct; Fri 25 Nov, 9.30am-12pm. 020 8205 7153

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

Open Day: Sat 1 Oct; Sat 11 Mar 2017, all 9.30am-12pm. 01923 772 395

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www.firstclasslearning.co.uk North West London OCTOBER 2016

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Local Clubs and Classes Directory CLASSES FOR GROWN-UPS Adult Art Classes in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, painting and mixed media art classes for adults. Weekday morning studio sessions in a relaxed, supportive environment.  020 8954 2897 or 07500 006 099  myartclub@yahoo.co.uk Capital Connection Chorus - female A capella harmony (HA4) Calling women who love to sing! Particularly need lower range voices at present. Perfect way to meet new friends and sing with a great group of women. Every Wednesday night 7.45pm to 10.30pm at Ruislip Community Centre.  www. capitalconnection.org.uk Eggless Cake Delights (HA) offer eggless baking, cake decorating and dessert classes for kids & adults in Harrow. Classes are held in small groups in hands on and Demo format, during weekdays, weekends and during term holidays in a friendly environment.  07737847405 or info@egglesscakedelights.com.  www.egglesscakedelights.com The Veggie Kitchen (HA7) Pure vegetarian cookery courses in Stanmore.

Specialising in Indian cuisines, as well as Thai, Chinese and many more, students learn to cook nutritious and delicious vegetarian meals in a friendly and homely environment. Group and one-to-one hands on courses.  0208 204 1906  www.veggiekitchen.co.uk Yogabellies Aquabellies (various) Beautiful water based yoga classes for women throughout their lives. The sessions incorporate traditional yoga asanas (postures) adapted for water, water relaxations and positive life building experiences for women, mothers and mothers to be.

There are AquaBellies - Aquanatal yoga for pregnancy, AquaMamas, post natal and AquaBelles aqua yoga classes suitable for all women. NEW YogaBelles: yoga designed for a unique women’s body.  07840 904887  anjli@yogabellies.co.uk www.yogabellies.co.uk/members/anjli

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

LANGUAGES AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT Baby Lab (WC1E) Have fun for free with your baby making discoveries about brain development at the Centre for Brain & Cognitive Development. Birkbeck College, Malet St, London. Travel expenses refunded. 020 7631 6258  www. cbcd.bbk.ac.uk Club Petit Pierrot (NW3/8/11) French Parent & Toddler group for 2-4 year olds in Hampstead at the JW3 Centre (NW3). It will take place on Mon from 10.30am11.15am and will be a multi-sensory session, totally in French, with many fun and varied activities including songs, rhymes, music, arts & crafts, dances and movement, language games, and puppets…all great fun! There will also be new fun French after-school classes on Weds for 4 to 6 yr olds and 6 to 8 yr olds in St Anthony’s School for Girls, Hampstead (NW11). Multi-sensory sessions with arts & crafts and music & movement also take place in St Mark’s Church Hall, St John’s Wood/Maida Vale (NW8) on Thurs, Fri and Sat.  020 7385 5565  admin@clubpetitpierrot.co.uk www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk Gujarati Masti Maja classes by Sansaar (HA5) Fun and interactive Gujarati music, song and dance classes for 3 to 6 year olds in North London, to help your child speak Gujarati confidently. Saturday morning at 9am and 10am at St Lawrence Church in Eastcote, Pinner.  www.sansaar.org 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

MUSIC & MOVEMENT Beat Building Vibrant & energising music classes using African drums and funky percussion. Great songs and games get the imagination glowing & introduce the concepts of beats, rhythmic patterns, time keeping & also encourage sharing, taking turns and listening. A wonderful introduction to music and rhythm, beat Building is brilliantly fun!  07721 623 171  info@ beatbuilding.co.uk www.beatbuilding.co.uk www.facebook.com/beatbuilding Little Notes (HA1&HA6) Music Teachers’ Awards for Excellence Finalist 2016.

Pre-school music classes run exclusively by professional musicians. Sarah is a classically-trained singer and leads classes with voice, piano, flute and guitar.

She creates an interactive musical space where children and adults can be guided as they explore sounds, shapes, rhythms and rhymes together. Love music, right from the start! Classes for children from 0 to 5 years in Harrow & Northwood. Please see website for more details.  020 8426 4114  sarahlittlenotes@gmail.com www.littlenotes.co.uk Mini Maniacs (Various) Multi award nominated classes that are filled with music, dance and exploration – plus plenty of excitement. Focusing on a range of engaging activities, the classes take you up tempo then down tempo, leaving parent and child feeling like they’ve been on a tummy tickling roller coaster!  Contact hilda@mini-maniacs.com or visit www.mini-maniacs.com

Monkey Music (Various)

Award-winning Monkey Music introduces babies and young children to music in a way they understand and enjoy - and is brilliant fun for children and adults too! The unique four-stage curriculum, written by classically trained musicians, ensures that classes are a “good fit” for pre-schoolers.

Parents across the UK have voted it as “Best National Toddler Development Activity” and “Best National Pre-school Development Activity”. Age guides are as follows: Rock’n’ Roll from 3m, Heigh Ho from 1yr, Jiggety Jig from 2rs, Ding Dong 3- 5yrs. Classes are open 6 days a week, at venues in Uxbridge, New Denham, Eastcote, Northwood and Harrow.  020 8427 6595  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. Enjoy-a-Ball parties are for super-active 3 - 9 year olds. They are full of high energy games loved by boys and girls alike!  08452 26 26 94  www.enjoy-a-ball.com northlondon@enjoy-a-ball.com Everyone Active (various) Swimming lessons, sports clubs and activities for all ages. See our ad on page 19 for more details.  www.everyoneactive.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.  Tracey fieldendflyers@gmail.com

Directory editor: Anna Blackshaw 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* (HA1/HA5/UB5) Children’s MixedMartial Arts & Self Defence from 5yrs - 14yrs. Ladies Only Boxing & Kick Boxing from 15yrs.

Mixed Adult KRAV MAGA Classes from 16yrs.  www.fightingcombatfitness. co.uk; www.moderncombatmartialarts.com;  07818 416 671 Rugbytots - the UK’s first rugby based play programme for 2-7 year olds.

Focusing on developing your child’s motor skills and confidence with fun-filled programmes aimed at improving general ball skills, balance, agility and coordination. Currently classes in Watford, Rickmansworth, Bushey and Stanmore.  For more information contact 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 Y Active (HA2) New Harrow classes booking now for children and adults at the YMCA. A beautiful studio with free parking and a play garden. Baby, Ballet, Gym, Soft Play and Classes from £4.40.  020 8832 1576  yactive@ ymcawestlondon.org www.ymcawestlondon.org

Massage & Yoga Positiv-Life Fitness (various) Specialise in Small group Personal training Pregnancy Pilates, Mum & Baby Yoga & Postnatal Pilates & Baby Massage, 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): Sat mornings, Bushey YogaBelliesKidz family yoga (children 4-12 years): Sat & Sun mornings, Bushey NEW: YogaBelles Mum and Daughter (13-16 years): Weekday evening, Bushey  07840 904887  anjli@yogabellies.co.uk; www.yogabellies.co.uk/members/anjli

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

Aqua Vie Swimming based on effortless swimming and true water confidence.

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

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

JAM2000 Performing Arts & 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 Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools (Various) run weekend dance, drama and singing classes for children aged 3 - 18 years. Children are divided into age appropriate groups and work towards shows and presentations. Focus on having fun and building confidence through engaging performing arts activities. Two week trial available.  020 8447 4530  www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk Nichola Rees Youth Academy – NYRA (WD) An acting and performing arts academy based in Watford, for young people aged 4-18 years.Weekly workshops on Thursdays and Saturdays, and an annual performance.  07702 965 851  nichola@nrya.co.uk www.nrya.co.uk Perform 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,

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Local Clubs and Classes Directory confidence and communication skills as well as being a kaleidoscope of fun!  0845 400 1275  www.perform.org.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 Stagecoach (Various) Training in three disciplines: drama, dance and singing.

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

Dance Futunity UK Academy of Sport and Dance (UB8) Purpose built facility in Uxbridge City Centre. Classes for children ages 2 all the way through to adults. Hip Hop, Street Dance, Gymnastics, Free Running, Breakdancing, Ballet (RAD), Tap (ISTD), Contemporary, Cheerleading, Pole Fitness, and Children’s Parties. Classes range from beginners to advanced/competitive levels. Three fully equipped studios available for hire, at very competitive rates. Futunity UK also supply dance (all genres) and gymnastics teachers into schools to run after/before school extra curricular sessions, and PE and PPA cover lessons. 01895 251224  admin@ futunityuk.com www.futunityuk.com Instep School of Ballet (HA/WD) Trains students of all ages and abilities in ballet, tap, pointe and performance. The school offers examinations with the Royal Academy of Dance (ballet) and the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance (tap), and all teachers are fully qualified and registered with the RAD and ISTD. They produce a summer show each year. Classes in Harrow, North Harrow and Bushey.  07814 793 772  instepschoolofballet@yahoo.co.uk www.instepschoolofballet.co.uk Karan’s Bollywood Masterclass (Various) 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 RISE Studios (WD) Dance and Performing Arts Schools in Watford and Rickmansworth. Classes in ballet, modern, tap, street dance, hip-hop, drama, singing, LAMDA and Performing Arts.  01923 218626  www.rise-studios.com The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance (HA7) Ballet classes to develop poise, technique and expression through dance, for boys and girls aged 3-16 years with Royal Academy of Dance examinations  020 8950 2457  www vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk

ARTS AND CRAFTS Art Classes for Kids (and Adults) in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, painting and mixed media art classes for children and adults. On-going, small groups Monday– Thursday afternoons and Saturday mornings in Term Time for children from Year 1 up. Weekday morning studio sessions for adults in a relaxed, supportive environment.  020 8954 2897 or 07500 006 099  myartclub@yahoo.co.uk Art and Craft Club (HA5) Term time, Mon 4.30-5.30, Sat 10-11am or 11-12pm at Harrow Arts Centre. New activities introduced every term; drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, sewing, fabric printing and much more! For 5-11yr olds. Materials provided. Qualified teachers.  07946 055 422  info@ mysistersandme.co.uk Blank Canvas Art Club (HA4) Let them explore their creative side! Imaginative Art classes for children delivering art techniques in a fun environment. (This isn’t just messy play and each term is different). Infant classes Mon 3.30, Tues 5pm, Juniors Wed 4.30. Private classes available and adult classes coming soon.  07773819603  blankcanvasartclub@gmail.com, www.facebook.com/ Blankcanvasartclub Luchi and Ota (HA8) Sewing classes and course for kids and adults. Also hold oneoff drop-in sessions and sewing and craft parties.  020 8958 7714  hello@luchiandota.com www.luchiandota.com

Messmakers! (HA5) A gentle and fun introduction to creative arts for the very young and their families, with lots of mess and none of the tidying up! Exploring different materials and textures each week. Ages under 5, come dressed for mess!  0208 416 8989  www.harrowarts.com/family Mini Picassos (NW10) After school art courses for children 4-13yrs. Toddler Picassos - weekdays at 10am & Tues 2.45-3.45pm: Painting, water play, collage, play dough and songs. Ages 15 mnths–3 yrs. Adults evening Life drawing classes. 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 The Veggie Kitchen (HA7) offers pure vegetarian cookery courses in Stanmore.

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

AFTER SCHOOL CLUB /EDUCATION SUPPORT Brownies and Guides (Various) Rainbow, Brownie and Guide Units exist across the area which provide fun activities for girls aged from 5 onwards.  www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested or  Peggy Brand 020 8205 7597 Champs Learning (HA1) A very structured tuition course for English, Maths, Science and 11+ exams. Courses run at Harrow College.  020 3004 9007 www.champslearning.co.uk Click IT! Computer lessons for Children (HA2) Fun, exciting and educational weekly computer lessons for children aged 2-5. Classes held at nursery schools all over North West London. Have fun learning with technology: mouse and keyboard skills and devices including graphic tablets, trackpads and digital microscopes. Every lesson is designed to complement the EYFS curriculum. Free trials available.  020 8434 7111.  www.clickit-kids.co.uk. wendy@clickit-kids.co.uk.

DiscoG Coding Boot Camp (various) Weekly Coding Programme teaches Primary and Secondary School children the basics of coding. Using the Python Programming Language and the Raspberry Pi 3 your child will create fun and engaging gadgets that spring to life with lights and sensors, and prototyping devices that will ‘amaze and inspire’. Tailored courses written to support the National Curriculum for GCSE and A Levels. Adult courses are also available.  Gerard on 07767 300940  coding@discog.co.uk www.discog.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 Excel Academy (HA3) Experienced tuition in preparation for SATs, 11+, 13+, GCSEs, AS & A2 levels. Small group sizes, all aspects of National Curriculum covered.  www.excelacademy.org.uk Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Visit their website to find your nearest centre or call to book a free trial class!  www.explorelearning.co.uk.

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 The Harrow Woodcraft Folk (HA) Elfin group for children, 6 to 9 year olds are reopening their group after the Summer holidays on Tuesday 6th September in Central Harrow. Parents wishing to join their children should contact the District Secretary; John Woolf:  020 8428 2409 or  e-mail: harrow@woodcraft. org.uk For more information regarding Harrow Woodcraft Folk visit their web site: www.harrowwoodcraftfolk.btck.co.uk/HowtoJoin 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 all-round motor

integration.  Usha Patel 07766 837 616  ushapatel.raviv@gmail.com www.integratedbrain.co.uk JKEducate Educational Consultancy and Tutoring (various) Tutoring, Assessments, Consultancy for children 5-18yrs. 7+, 11+, GCSE, A Levels, SEN, EFL.  020 3488 0754  www.jkeducate.co.uk Knowledge Above Standard (HA7) Maths, English, Verbal and non-verbal reasoning, 7+, 11+ 13+ exam preparation.  07985 588 085  www.knowledgeabovestandard.co.uk Leaders are Readers (HA5 & N21) Offer specialist experience and accelerated learning in their award winning Saturday School, and also run popular Summer and Winter Schools during holidays. 2 hours spent per subject, including English, Maths, Learning to Read and Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. All programmes are for ages 3.5 to 11 and the success rate is 90% for helping pupils prepare to sit entrance exams, including 4+, 5+, 7+ and 11+. Childcare vouchers accepted.  01992 651 300  www.leadersarereaders.co.uk 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 Mastermind Tuition (HA) Specialise in 11+, Maths, English, Verbal & Non-verbal reasoning (including CEM-style) and Grammar & Independent school preparation. Classes in Harrow & Northwood (free parking on site) Visit the website or call  07478 878672 to book a FREE TRIAL  www. mastermindtuition.com mastermindtuition@aol.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.  0333 12 33 445  www.mathscool.com The Northwood Speech and Language Therapy Practice (HA6) An independent service covering a range of children’s communication difficulties.  01923 824 074  www.northwoodpractice.co.uk Number Works ‘n’ Words (Eastcote) After school Maths and English tuition classes which target identified needs to improve achievement levels. They set goals for your child, monitor progress and provide regular progress reports. Cater for all levels from Reception to Year 11.  www.numberworksnwords.co.uk Pinner Tuition Centre (Pinner) After school and Sat tuition for Reception to Year 11 by fully qualified teachers. Tuition in Maths, Reading, Spelling, Writing, SATS, 11+ and GCSE. FREE ASSESSMENT. Ofsted Registered.  www. pinnertuitioncentre.co.uk The Play Shelter After School Club at Malorees Infant & Junior Schools (NW6) 3.30pm to 6pm term time. Play schemes available out of term-time.  0207 407 6744.  admin@theplayshelter.co.uk www.theplayshelter.co.uk The Rainbow Club (various) Specialise in preparing for 3+, 4+ and 5+ entrance exams. 07850 045 471  Sonya.Thiru@gmail.com Raviv Practice London (UB5) Catch up reading course for children on the SEN register. Reading courses are flexible with home based learning (via computer) monitored daily.  Usha Patel on 07766 837 616  info@ravivpracticelondon.co.uk (registered therapist) Simple Studies (NW4) Offer expert English and Maths tuition for 4-16 year olds at their cosy centre in Hendon. They specialise in 11+ entrance exams. Quote ‘Familiesmagazine’ and get 10% off your first lesson!  07793 498195  www.simplestudies.co.uk Susan Daughtrey Education (SDE) SW Herts courses are based on more than 25 years experience preparing students for 11+ tests. All courses have been personally written by Susan Daughtrey M.Ed, author of the market leading verbal reasoning Technique and Practice series. Every year since 1987, over 90 per cent. of the students on the courses have achieved success.  020 7683 0734  www.sdeuk.org/swherts Stanmore Tutor Stanmore Tutor prepares students thoroughly for the top selective schools ensuring that they reach their maximum potential for that all important place.  020 3538 2437 Type IT! - Touch Typing Lessons for Children (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.

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 OCTOBER 2016

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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.

The Alban Arena Civic Centre, St Albans 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk Tue 18 Oct - Ministry of Science Ministry of Science Live is not your ordinary science show – it comes with a bang. It comes with a whoosh. But most of all is comes with a hovercraft built on stage… Oh, and a Human Cannon too! From the creative team behind Brainiac Live and a whole load of other explosive science shows, this new production takes an anarchic approach to science communication whilst looking at the inventors and engineers who have shaped and inspired the modern world that we live in. Join the super talented presenters and the voiceover from above (X Factor’s Peter Dickson) as they take you on a journey using brilliantly designed demonstrations with a few loud bangs to lead the way. Fingers in ears advised…

Sat 29 – Sun 30 Oct - Peppa Pig’s Surprise Surprise! Peppa Pig, George and their friends are back at The Alban Arena in a brand new live stage show, Peppa Pig’s Surprise.

It’s a lovely day and Peppa is playing outside with her friends. Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig have got a surprise for her and George – they can’t guess what it is, can you? Enjoy fun, loads of songs and of course, surprises in this charming, colourful new show. Peppa Pig’s Surprise promises to be the perfect theatre show for all pre-schoolers.

Artsdepot 5 Nether Street, North Finchley, N12 020 8369 5454 www.artsdepot.co.uk Sun 16 Oct – Jack and the Beans Talk Jack lives on a small farm with his mum and very little to eat. He likes to talk to the birds, his cow and anyone who will listen. Imagine his surprise when he swaps his cow for some magic beans and starts to hear a whispering in the breeze and a giant rumble in the sky... Charming and inventive with plenty of interaction, an enormous beanstalk, bags of gold and a smelly old giant, Jack and the Beans Talk is a cautionary tale about what might happen if you throw things out of the window! Ages 3-7 years

Wed 19 – Thu 20 Oct – Mirror Mirror Oily Cart returns with a brand new immersive adventure for children and young people with autism or complex disabilities. In the magical ambiance of a beauty parlour, Oily Cart creates a multi-sensory, tactile feast for the senses. The audience is enveloped in a world of beautiful perfumes and colour palettes, with regular intervals of messy play. This is also a world of reflected sparkling light, with mirrors employed to create wonderful visual effects.

The show is accompanied by beautiful live harp music to support the heavenly vision. There are two versions of the show, one for children and young people on the autism spectrum, and one for those with profound and multiple learning disabilities. Ages 3-19 years Sat 22 – Sun 23 Oct – Stick Man The world outside the family tree is a dangerous place for Stick Man. A dog wants to play fetch with him, a swan builds a nest with him and he even ends up on a fire! How will Stick Man ever get back to the family tree? Touching, funny and utterly original, this award-winning production features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves.

Ages 3+ Tue 25 – Fri 28 Oct – Monstersaurus This brand new show from the creators of Aliens Love Underpants is monster-ously good! Follow the young inventor Monty as he creates a whole world of whacky inventions and incredible monsters, but he has a problem - now he has made them all, what is he going to do with them?! This energetic show full of thrills, spills, magic and mayhem will delight the whole family – with original music and plenty of audience participation! Ages 3+ Sun 30 Oct – The Magic Paintbrush Once upon a time in a grey, colourless world, someone is scribbling. Follow the brave young heroine as she leaps, splatters, swirls, boogies and paints her world into a brighter place. Can the imaginative young artist vanquish the mighty shadow of greed?

Exploding with energy, surprises and giggles, and set to a quirky urban soundtrack, this is The Magic Paintbrush as never before. Ages 3+

Artsdepot - The Magic Paintbrush

The Beck Theatre Grange Road, Hayes.

020 8561 8371 www.becktheatre.org.uk Sun 23 Oct - The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe When four young evacuees Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy are sent to a grand country mansion, they discover a portal to a new world through a mysterious old wardrobe. Journey with the four siblings to Narnia, an enchanting land where mythical creatures roam and animals speak. Meet the adorable Mr Tumnus and his whimsical friends, as they team up with majestic lion Aslan to defeat the White Witch and save the land from her forces of evil. This festive new adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ timeless story, promises to be a magical and thrilling adventure for the whole family.

Tue 25 Oct - Steve Backshall’s Wild World Wildlife TV Presenter, adventurer, naturalist and children’s author, Steve Backshall, takes us on a tour of the real life expeditions that have inspired his books The Falcon Chronicles and his new novel in the series, Shark Seas. It’s a wild journey, illustrated with photos and films from the Arctic to the Antarctic, from the tundra to the top of the world’s highest peaks, and from the depths of the rainforest to the bottom of the ocean. This talk is suitable for wildlife enthusiasts of all ages from eight to eighty. There will be extended Q and As.

Harrow Arts Centre Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools

SCHOOLS IN:

Harrow Hendon Watford ✴ ✴ ✴

3–18 years

TWO WEEK TRIAL AVAILABLE!

020 8447 4530 www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk

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Hatch End HA5 0208 416 8989 www.harrowarts.com Mon 24 Oct - The Owl and the Pussycat’s Treasury of Nonsense Soap Soup Theatre present a collection of some of Edward Lear’s most loved poems in a feast for the eyes, ears and imagination. Go racing with the Nutcracker and the Sugar-tongs, travel the hilltops alongside the Dong with the Luminous nose, and sail away in a sieve to the land where the Bong tree grows! With a delightfully unpredictable story telling style, using clown, object puppetry and magical music, they round up a collection of nonsense, bigger and better than ever before!

Little Angel Theatre 14 Dagmar Passage, Cross St, N1 020 7226 1787 www.littleangeltheatre.com Sat 1 Oct – Sun 20 Nov - Emily Rising Emily wakes up one bright autumn morning to find that her feet can’t touch the ground, and no one can understand why. To everyone’s surprise Emily keeps rising higher and higher. From sleeping upside-down on her ceiling and flying above her school playground, to soaring over a starry-skied London, Emily’s

adventure is just beginning. Emily discovers a world that looks completely different. She’s not scared at all – it’s fun being high up. But she’s not coming down… Emily Rising explores themes of growing up, complicated family relationships and overcoming adversity and is not recommended for younger children. Ages 7+ Sat 1 Oct – Sun 20 Nov – Let’s Fly Can you fly? Just Imagine if you could. What does your home look like when you’re as high as the birds and the aeroplanes? Or even a spaceship… let’s find out! Emily has a secret; she knows how to fly and she wants you to come on an adventure with her. Hold her hand and soar over cities, float above oceans and glide across mountains. You’ve never seen the whole world until you’ve sat on top of a cloud. Ages 2-6 years

Peacock Theatre Portugal Street, London, WC2A 020 7863 8222 www.peacocktheatre.com Wed 23 Nov – Sun 1 Jan – The Snowman A perennial family favourite, The Snowman has transported a generation of children and their families into the wintery world of a boy and his magical snowman. As a friendship is kindled, the two embark on a starry-skied adventure to the North Pole, where they meet dancing penguins, reindeer, Father Christmas and escape the clutches of Jack Frost.

With music and lyrics by Howard Blake, including Walking in the Air performed by a live band, choreographed by Robert North and directed

by Bill Alexander, the stage show based on the book by Raymond Briggs and the subsequent film has become a much-loved festive tradition.

Ruari Murchison’s enchanting design combined with Tim Mitchell’s spectacular lighting delight young and old alike with a captivating mix of dance, music, storytelling, spectacle and magic.

Puppet Theatre Barge Little Venice W9 020 7249 6876 www.puppetbarge.com Sat 22 – Sun 30 Oct - Three Pigs and the Wolf Plus Captain Grimey (The dirtiest sea captain in the world) A double bill presented by Movingstage during half-term. Ages 3 to 8 yrs

The Radlett Centre 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk Sat 15 Oct - Snow White Join Vienna Festival Ballet on a magical journey with their unmissable production of Snow White. World premiere choreography propels this timeless fairytale and answers the question; who is the fairest one of all? Based on the traditional Grimm brothers’ story, this ballet incorporates

What’s On Jason have what it takes to be a hero, and bring the Golden Fleece back home? Join in this thrilling mission impossible where the hero’s destiny is placed in the hands of the gods. Ages 6-12 years

Watersmeet

The Alban Arena - Peppa Pig’s Surprise

all the important elements – a beautiful girl, an enchanted mirror, a poisoned apple. Hip-hopping dwarves help Snow White find her Prince Charming. This spellbinding ballet promises to entertain and dazzle the whole family.

Tue 25 Oct - The Town Mouse and The Country Mous Join two friends as they embark on an amazing journey and discover that sometimes new can be exciting and different can be good, but the most important thing is friendship. An enchanting and heartwarming telling of Aesop’s classic fable, packed full of fun, music and song.

Fri 28 Oct - Beauty and the Beast One of the most popular fairy tales of all time, this story still fascinates and moves people of all ages.

When Beauty sees beneath the ugly frightening exterior of the Beast she discovers a loyal and loving heart. Can she change the villager’s opinion of him and more importantly will the Beast ever become a prince again? Be part of this wonderful story by learning the chorus songs via the website and joining in during the show. Also up to 10 children will be able to take part alongside the team of professional actors on stage. Ages 3 – 8 yrs

Unicorn Theatre 147 Tooley Street, SE1.

020 7645 0560 www.unicorntheatre.com Sat 1 Oct – Mon 21 Nov - The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark Plop is a Baby Barn Owl, fat, fluffy with a beautiful heartshaped ruff and knackety knees. He’s still learning to fly, very curious and almost always hungry. And he’s afraid of the dark, which is not very helpful for a night-bird. So his exasperated mother sends him on several missions to find out more about night time. ‘Dark is exciting’ says a small boy.

‘Kind’ says an old lady. ‘Necessary’ says a little girl. Then he meets a cat who tells Plop ‘there are many kinds of dark’ and shows him the beauty of the night. After all this enthusiasm, will Plop learn to embrace the dark? Ages 2-6 years Sat 1 Oct – Fri 21 Oct - Jason and the Argonauts Banished as a baby, Jason is back and ready to claim his rightful throne. In order to prove himself, he is sent on an epic quest to find the Golden Fleece. He assembles a crew of mighty Argonauts and they set sail aboard the Argo for the ultimate adventure. Along the way, he meets deranged kings, horrific harpies, sinister sirens and a host of fearsome challenges. Does

High St, Rickmansworth WD3 01923 711 063 www.watersmeet.co.uk Fri 14 Oct - Snow White Join Vienna Festival Ballet on a magical journey with their unmissable production of Snow White. World premiere choreography propels this timeless fairytale and answers the question; who is the fairest one of all? Based on the traditional Grimm brothers’ story, this ballet incorporates all the important elements – a beautiful girl, an enchanted mirror, a poisoned apple. Hip-hopping dwarves help Snow White find her Prince Charming. This spellbinding ballet promises to entertain and dazzle the whole family.

Watford Palace Theatre Clarendon Road, Watford WD17 01923 225 671 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk Tue 27 – Thu 29 Oct - James and the Giant Peach Join James and his insect friends for an unforgettable giant peach of an adventure to celebrate the centenary of Roald Dahl’s birth. Dahl’s magical tale of an orphaned boy’s unforgettable journey is brought to life on stage by some of Hertfordshire’s most talented young performers. Suitable for children (and grown-ups) of all ages.

Watford Colosseum Rickmansworth Road Watford WD17 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk Thu 1 –Sat 24 Dec - Santa Claus And The Night Before Christmas From the producers of last year’s record-breaking production, Santa Claus and the Magical Christmas

Journey, the enchanting Christmas experience returns with a brand new adventure. It’s Christmas Eve and whilst most children are hanging up their stockings, there are a few boys and girls in Watford who are not! They don’t believe in Santa and with Christmas morning fast approaching cheeky elves Charlie and Kara must help Santa prove that he is indeed real! With magic tricks, songs and stories, can they make them believe before it’s time to board Santa’s sleigh and deliver the presents? A truly unforgettable experience which includes the magical moment when snowflakes fall over the audience, this interactive show is a must-see over the festive season. As an added Christmas treat, all of the good boys and girls in the audience will meet Santa after the show and receive a special present of their own.

For all children ages 2+

Winston Churchill Theatre Pinn Way Ruislip HA4 01895 250615 www.hillingdontheatres.uk Fri 28 Oct - Goldilocks and the Three Bears This comical story is retold through a massive 6ft tall book complete with pop ups and props coming out of the book!

Everything is in disguise and the story goes into the skies with this comical retelling of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Big Goldilocks wanders off from her parents into the forest but soon gets lost, getting hungry, grumpy and tired. The forest animals decide to escape before she gets even more grumpy on an Animal Rescue Centre which flies high throughout the skies! Goldilocks arrives at the Three Bears house for a big bowl of cereal but soon it’s up to the audience to help scare her away… Ages 5-11 yrs For many more local events and diary dates for the whole family visit

www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk

North West London OCTOBER 2016

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listings for all the family

What’s On

Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

To promote your local event, coffee morning, nearly new sale, parenting courses or community group in the next What’s On listing (November/December 2016) send your entry by 10th Oct 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.FamiliesOnline for all our local weekly regular events. It’s updated every day!

October Sat 1 Oct - Fun Palace at Civic Centre Hillingdon (UB8) A Fun Palace is a place where anyone can go along and get involved with anything to do with the sciences or the arts without having to worry about being a beginner or an expert. There will be drama workshops, creative writing sessions, science experiments to get stuck into, photography workshops and much more! Fun for all ages. Free and no booking required. 10am-4pm. www.funpalaces.co.uk Sat 1 Oct - Africans Unite Networking Event (WD18) Enjoy this opportunity to share your culture and heritage, meet friends, make new friends and network within your community. There will be African drumming, storytelling, fashion show, Indian head massage, pamper sessions, dance performances, refreshments and much more - an event for the whole family. At Holywell Community Centre from 2-7pm, free admission. www.hertsaid.uk

Sat 1 Oct - Hats, Stories and a Big Giraffe (HA5) Local An Vrombaut, writer of the TV series 64 Zoo Lane and Disney’s Florrie’s Dragon, will share a great afternoon of telling stories, making wonderful hats, inventing your own stories and creating a giraffe’s neck that may be the longest ever. For children 2 1/2 upwards and their parents at Pinner Methodist Church from 2-3.30pm. www.heathrobinsonmuseum.org Sat 1 – Tue 11 Oct - 1966 Exhibition (HA9) To mark the 50th anniversary of the year England hosted and won the World Cup, an exclusive collection of 1966 football memorabilia returns home to Wembley Stadium. The Jules Rimet World Cup Trophy, as lifted by Bobby Moore, and the ball from the Final are at the centre of the exhibition. With other eye-catching exhibits including one of the spare, unused and never-seen-before World Cup Winners’ medals. www.wembleystadium.com Sat 1 Oct & Sat 5 Nov - Northwood Craft Market (HA6) Hands-on crafts for children and beautiful handmade crafts for Mums

& Dads to browse & buy. At the Methodist Church Hall, Northwood, from 10am-2pm. www.northwoodcraftmarket.co.uk Sat 1 Oct & Sat 5 Nov - Kids Run Free (UB10) Running Races on the 1st Saturday of the month for under 16’s at Hillingdon Court Park. All ages welcome from toddlers to teenagers and everyone in between. No running experience required, simply turn up and have fun, it’s free to take part. Race 1 - under 2 year olds run 50 metres; Race 2 - 3 to 4 year olds run 100 metres; Race 3 - 5 to 6 year olds run 250 metres; Race 4 - Any age run as many laps as they want up to 5K info@kidsrunfree.co.uk www.kidsrunfree.co.uk Sat 1 Oct – Sat 26 Nov - Discovery Archery (SG13) Try something different and experience the thrill of pulling back a bow and shooting an arrow into the target at The Archery Barn. Enjoy as a family or watch as your children learn a new sport! Your discover archery session will be led by experienced Celtic Harmony Archery Instructors so you can learn the basics and develop your technique. Archery courses are

designed for children age 7 years plus and adults. www.celticharmony.org/archery Sun 2 Oct - Harrow and Wembley Miniature Railway (HA5) Open for public train rides on Sunday afternoons until Sun 25 Oct, from around 2.30-5pm, weather and conditions permitting. Located at Roxbourne Park in Eastcote. www.hwsme.org Fri 7 – Sun 9 Oct - Hillingdon Literary Festival (UB8) A free weekend of literary performances from over twenty-five bestselling and globally renowned authors. The theatre at Brunel University will play host to riveting conversations, inspiring readings, book signings, masterclasses and workshops. But there’s much more, the outdoor festival area will be a celebration of the community – with live music, street food, poetry made to order from The Poetry Takeaway, plus numerous delights curated by the Duck Pond Market and their artisan blend of interesting, local, ethical and sustainable produce. www.hillingdonliteraryfestival.com

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

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

• •

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

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

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

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What’s On Wed 12 Oct - Bach to Baby Family Concert (NW10) Get your ticket on the Orient Express! Travel through the Far East with Fontane Liang as she harps on about Asia’s folk traditions. Stopping at China, Japan, and Singapore, you don’t want to miss this Eastern holiday. Doors open at St Martin’s Church in Kensal Rise 30 mins prior to the concert, giving you time to ditch the buggy, grab a Monmouth coffee and catch up with friends before the performance. info@bachtobaby.com www.bachtobaby.com/ kensal-rise

Willows Farm Sat 8 Oct - Annual Croxley Book Sale (WD3) The Annual Croxley Book Sale will be held in the Baptist Church, Baldwins Lane, from 8.30am to 2.30pm. Excellent quality and value, wide range of books - fiction, non-fiction, children’s. Coffee and cake. All proceeds to Christian Aid. www.threerivers.gov.uk

Sun 9 Oct – Celebrate Black History Month (WD17) October’s Black History Month celebration at Watford Palace Theatre comprises an eclectic mix of performances including dance, live music and gospel singing delivered by inspiring artists hailing from Watford and beyond. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk

Sat 8 Oct - Hidden Treasures and Sea Legends Family Rave (E14) Get your glowsticks out for a family-friendly rave with DJ Aston Harvey in the Georgian warehouse at the Museum of London Docklands. Everyone from the smallest swashbuckler to the biggest buccaneer will enjoy the multi-sensory dancefloor delights like glitter cannons, giant balloons, bubble machines and a parachute dance. www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-londondocklands

Sun 9 Oct - Royal Parks Half Marathon (W2) Get involved, help support Watford Mencap in this amazing challenge, the Royal Parks Half Marathon! Over 16,000 runners take part every year in this 13.1 mile run through Central London that takes in the spectacular sites of the capital and the beautiful Royal Parks.

Go along and show your support! www.royalparkshalf.com

Wed 12 Oct - Can you Handle it?

(NW10) Discover different hidden treasures from Brent’s Archives and learn more about Brent’s fascinating histories at The Library at Willesden Green. Suitable for ages 10+ and free.

Drop in between 2 & 3pm. museum.archives@brent.gov.uk www.brent.gov. uk/museumarchives Sat 15 Oct - Autumn Fayre (WD3) The local Cancer Research UK Committee will be holding an Autumn Fayre in the Village Hall at Sarratt from 10.30am-4pm. There will be a wide range of stallholders including books, bags, jewellery, fashion, homeware, ceramics and children’s toys and gifts. There will also be homemade cakes, jams, marmalades and charity cards and of course a raffle! Refreshments will be available throughout the day. www.threerivers.gov.uk Sun 16 Oct – Abbots Apple Fest (WD5) Activities on the day include apple bobbing, a petting zoo, falconry display, live music and children’s entertainment. 11am-3.30pm at School Mead. www.altta.org.uk Sat 22 Oct - YA Shot (UB8) Returning to The Civic Centre in Uxbridge for a second year, YA Shot is a one day young adult literature festival

with nearly 70 authors involved in a programme of workshop, panel and ‘in conversation’ events.

There will also be book signing and blogging and vlogging workshops. www.hillingdon.gov.uk Sat 22 – Sun 23 Oct - VegfestUK London 2016 (W14) This show will be bigger and better than ever before with an extra 4,000 sqm of space at Olympia London and an expected 12,000+ audience who will be treated to 250 stalls full of top-notch food, bodycare, cosmetics, fashion etc, special discounts and free samples, a host of high-profile speakers from all over the world and much more. There will be areas with children’s activities as well as music. www.london.vegfest.co.uk Sat 29 Oct - Watford Philharmonic Society Present ‘Remembrance’ (WD17) Remembrance is a programme of music at Watford Colosseum, reflecting on the 100th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme and features Massenet’s Meditation de Thais played on the western front violin, and Bruch and Mozart’s wonderful Requiem. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk Sun 30 Oct – Halloween Screaming Screenings (WD17) One for the grown ups this Halloween! Watford Colosseum will have special showings of Beetlejuice at 6pm and Silence of the Lambs at 8.30pm. This ghoulish evening will take place in the Frighteningly fantastic Forum, with food and wine available to enjoy whilst you watch the film.

In preparation for a chilling evening, blankets will be provided to snuggle into or indeed to hide behind during the eerie evening. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk continued on page 18 v

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What’s On v continued from page 17

Mon 31 Oct - Pumpkin Dash (WD18) Teams of 4 are invited to join in Watford Mencap’s charity Pumpkin Dash on The Parade from 10.30am-12.30pm. 01923 713620 admin@watfordmencap.org.uk www.watfordmencap.org.uk

November

L Sat 5 Nov - Harrow

Fireworks (HA3) Harrow Fireworks are back for their annual display at Byron Park Harrow HA37QX. This year will be bigger and better than any before, with the theme of outer space (cue weird and wonderful music!). This year’s event is again a Pyro- musical meaning it will be set in time with outa space themed music from your favourite TV and films. With plenty to see and do on the day, they have a truly spectacular show prepared for you all. From local produce stalls to the fun fair, all leading up to the out-of-thisworld event - Fireworks at 7.30 promptly! A great evening out for all the family!

For more info and tickets go to www. harrowfireworks.co.uk

L Sat 5 Nov - Cassiobury

Fireworks (WD18) A free, fabulous night of fireworks and fun at Cassiobury Park from 6- 8:30pm! The event is organised by WBC with support from the Watford Lions who arrange the charity collection and Vibe 107.6FM who compere the stage. The bonfire will be lit at 7pm with the fireworks starting at 7.30pm. www.watford.gov.uk

L Sat 5 Nov - Maple Cross JMI School Fireworks Night (WD3) This amazing fireworks display is back for another

year - don’t miss out! Doors open at 5pm and Fireworks start at 6:15pm. There will be a BBQ and refreshments available. maplecrosspta@hotmail.co.uk.

Tue 15 Nov – Tue 20 Dec - Anger Management for Parents & Teens Together (HA1) Do you sometimes feel you are both living in the same world but on different planets? 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. A weekly course at Hope Harrow from 7–8.30pm. Spaces are limited and are on a first come, first served basis.

020 8863 7319 info@hopeharrow.org.uk Sat 19 – Sun 20 Nov – Baby to Toddler Event (E16) This is a one stop shop for everything parents need for their babies and toddlers up to 4 years of age – prams and pushchairs, nursery furniture, books, clothes and much more! At the ExCel London. www.babytotoddlerevents.co.uk Wed 21 – Fri 30 Dec – Disney on Ice: Frozen (SE10) Enter a fantastical winter wonderland beyond imagination when Disney On Ice presents Frozen. Be magically whisked away to wintry Arendelle by dazzling special effects and astonishing skating as you sing and dance along to inspiring songs including “Let It Go.” Join royal sisters Anna and Elsa, the hilarious snowman Olaf, Kristoff and Sven, as they journey to discover that true love is the most magical power of all! www.disneyonice.com

Half Term

L

Mon 17 Oct – Sat 5 Nov – Brick Or Treat (SL4) Frankie the Friendly Monster, Lord Vampyre and Orange Brick are back at the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort for the hugely popular Brick or Treat season, this year featuring the World’s smallest LEGO® pumpkin patch in Miniland. Plus on weekends throughout the event - and on Fireworks Night itself - a fireworks spectacular themed around the exciting new LEGO® Nexo Knights™ will be exploding over the night skies on 15th, 22nd, 23rd, 28th & 29th Oct and 5th Nov. www.legoland.co.uk Fri 21 – Sun 30 Oct - Zippos Halloween Circus 2016 Celebration (NW4) Zippo’s is back at Brent Cross with a spooky (but not frightening!)

Hallowe’en Celebration, which includes a talented family of pet cats, as well as incredible horsemanship with stunning white heavy horses.

Human skills include jaw-dropping thrills from the trapeze artist, some nail-biting knife throwing and the terrifying ‘Wheel of Death’. Younger visitors enjoy comedy from Mr Lorenz and Alex the Fireman, tumbling from Kenya, foot juggling and of course Norman Barrett MBE Ringmaster extraordinaire with his cheeky performing budgerigars. www.zippos.co.uk Sat 22 Oct - Family Arts Festival Family Art Day (WC1N) You can explore the current exhibition at October Gallery together with ‘Octoby’ the gallery Octopus, and Dani the wonderful storyteller. You will go on an adventure together and then make some art. 10-11.30am at the October Gallery. www.octobergallery.co.uk Sat 22 – Sun 30 Oct Pumpkin Festival at Willows Farm (AL4) Pick your FREE pumpkin from Willows Pumpkin Patch with a Pumpkin-tastic programme of family fun! www.willowsactivityfarm.com Sat 22 – Sun 30 Oct - London Survives (EC2Y) Wars, plagues and fires!

Connect with the drama in London’s past at a range of free events for families at the Museum of London, with a special focus on the Great Fire of London. Help create a giant scene of London before the fire, craft a paper boat of possessions you would save from the blaze and find out how the museum protects the objects that have survived since 1666. Suitable for all ages and free. www.museumoflondon.org.uk Sat 22 – Mon 31 Oct – Explore the Spooky Seas This ‘Hallow-Marine’ (SE1) Spot some of the scariest creatures in the ocean this ‘Hallowmarine’ as the SEA LIFE London Aquarium puts the spotlight on Spooky Seas! Visitors should keep their eyes peeled for ‘spooky sea’ clues around the attraction revealing where some of the strangest bogey-fish lurk!There will be themed talks and feeds throughout the week, plus on Halloween day itself the Fish Witch will be making a special appearance. This scaly, green marine crone only comes out on Halloween to cook up a cauldron full of spooky fun for visitors! www.visitsealife.com/london Sun 23 - Sat 29 Oct - Samhain Celebrations (SG13) Samhain was the Celtic New Year, and Celtic Harmony will be marking this historically significant period with a week of Samhain Celebrations. There’s a variety of hands-on workshops, activities and demonstrations guaranteed to keep the kids entertained over Half Term. Then on Sun 30 Oct welcome in the Celtic New Year at the Samhain Festival! This one of the biggest events of the

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year, with archery, bonfires, drumming, pottery, story telling, face painting, pumpkin carving, woodland quests, bread making, processions, warrior training and much more! Pre-booking is absolutely essential. www.celticharmony.org Mon 24 – Fri 28 Oct - She Tells Sea Tales (SE10) This half-term, Cutty Sark sets sail on her storytelling adventures across the high seas. Listen to watery London tales, marvel at daring voyages of fortune and enjoy sea ballads and shanties before setting your own story ship adrift on Old Father Thames. www.rmg.co.uk Mon 24 – Sat 29 Oct Things that go splash in the night! (SE10) This Halloween, discover deep ocean noises, create creatures that sing strange sounds and learn about sea shanties at the National Maritime Museum. Make your very own shipwrecked musical instruments and gather around to hear Madame Swashbuckle’s ghostly tales of watery goings on in a puppet-filled frightfest. www.rmg.co.uk Tue 25 Oct - Create your own cartoon with Knife and Packer (HA4) Expert illustrators and storytellers Knife & Packer are coming to the Winston Churchill Theatre to create your own cartoon characters.

With help from the audience they will create a whole host of new characters and then get you to create some too! Aimed at children in Key Stage 2 & 3. Booking required. 10.30-11.30am. www.hillingdon.gov.uk Mon 24 – Fri 28 Oct – The Big Draw at the Bank of England Museum (EC2R) Explore the new banknote gallery and learn about the various security features. You can then design your own secure banknote. What new features will you add to make it even more secure? Your imagination is the limit! Enter the competition with prizes to be won. Short interactive talks about banknotes will take place daily at 1:00pm. www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum Tue 25 Oct - Make a Snake!

Workshop and Jungle Book Film (HA) Make your own wiggly jungle snake mobile to take to the showing of the Jungle Book – and then decorate your window with it when you get home! From 10-11am at Harrow Arts Centre. Then at 11am stay to watch The Jungle Book - an allnew live-action epic adventure. www.harrowarts.com Tue 25 & Wed 26 Oct - Free Children’s Story Time Special with Music Audio Stories! (NW3/6) A special children’s Story Time at West Hampstead library on Tue 25 Oct from 11am-11.45am and Swiss Cottage library from 3-3.45pm on Wed 26 Oct. A mix of listening, drawing and drama, which encourages children to use their own imagination.

Suitable for ages 2-7 years, these sessions compliment Key Stage 1 and areas of the Early Years Foundation Stage, and will feature a brand new Music Audio Story Billy Joins The Circus! www.musicaudiostories.com Wed 26 Oct - Family Dreams Workshop (NW10) Find out about who Martin Luther King Jr. was and his dreams. Make your own dreams card to take home and show your friends in this free activity. 2.30-4pm at The Library at Willesden Green. www.brent.gov.uk/museumarchives Wed 26 Oct - Make a Mask Workshop & Inside Out (HA5) Go along to Harrow Arts Centre to create your own Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear or Disgust mask to take to the film Inside Out with you! Workshop from 10-10.45am followed by the film Inside Out at 11am. www.harrowarts.com

What’s On Sat 29 Oct - Trick or Treat Treasure Hunt (WC1B) This spooky treasure hunt begins with a Halloween story. You and your team of 2 to 4 players must then explore The British Museum, unravelling the crypt, and hunting the answers to questions about museum exhibits. Find the objects location and then answer the question about it to win the points.

The treat goes to the team to score the most points. Starts at 2pm. www.scavengerhunts.london Sun 30 Oct – Halloween Colourdash (HA6) In aid of Michael Sobel Hospice. The event starts at 11am for kids and 12pm for adults and will be held at the Michael Sobell Centre (entry via Gate 3 off White Hill).

There will be a best carved pumpkin and best costume competitions.

020 8326 2367 www.michaelsobellhospice.co.uk Wed 26 Oct - My Great Orchestral Adventure (SW7) Taking place at the Royal Albert Hall, this will be a fun and magical introduction to symphonic music for children aged 3+ featuring stories, singing, dancing and a live orchestra. www.royalalberthall.com Wed 26 Oct - Halloween Magic with Winnie the Witch (HA6) Spell-binding stories, arts and crafts inspired by the world’s maddest witch at Northwood Library. Suitable for 5-8 year olds.

Booking required. 10.30-11.30am. www.hillingdon.gov.uk Thu 27 Oct – Explore Learning Workshops (various) Parents looking for innovative ways to entertain the children during half term are invited along to Explore Learning centres across the UK where there will be FREE, fun and interactive workshops for children aged four to 14 from 12pm until 5pm. Your family can spend an hour with one of the fantastic tutors at any point during the day. For a full list of centres and their opening times visit their website. www.explorelearning.co.uk Thu 27 Oct - A Series of Unfortunate Events Workshops (various) Create a shadow puppet theatre based on “The Series of Unfortunate Events”.

Suitable for children aged 7-11 years, booking required. 2-3.30pm at Harefield Library; 4-6pm at Ruislip Manor Library; 4.30-5.30pm at Eastcote Library. www.hillingdon.gov.uk Thu 27 Oct - Frozen - Let It Go! – Workshop (UB10) A day of Frozen activity

at the Compass Theatre starts with an hour-long musical workshop for ages 5 to 10. There is a 10am workshop which is repeated at 11am. www.hillingdontheatres.co.uk Thu 27 Oct - Frozen Sing Along (UB10) The perfect treat for Frozen fans of all ages! The day of Frozen activity continues at Compass Theatre with a screening of the film in full, complete with sing along lyrics so you can ‘Let It Go’ as loud as you like. www.hillingdontheatres.co.uk Fri 28 Oct - Race to Recycle (NW10) Challenge your family! Head along to the Library at Willesden Green for this fun-filled recycling workshop from 2-3pm. For ages 5+. www.brent.gov.uk/museumarchives Fri 28 Oct - Ghost Ship (SE10) One for the grown ups! Experience the true horror of life at sea with eerie tours of Cutty Sark. Hear the tales of hard labour and tragedy that fell upon the crew during tough voyages on the stormy sea.

Take along your wits and something comfy to sit on as you make your way beneath the ship for a screening of the blood-curdling classic Dracula (1931), with a shot of whisky to ward off the chills.

Ages 18+. www.rmg.co.uk Fri 28 Oct - Halloween Spectacular @ Chiltern Open Air Museum (HP8) Take the family to this unforgettable, unmissable evening of spooky fun for all ages in the unique and atmospheric setting of the Museum’s historic buildings and woods.

This year the event will be part of Culture 24’s

Museum’s at Night. Take part in spooky activities and crafts, enjoy a BBQ and enter the Frightening Fancy Dress competition. This is an extremely popular event so there will be two different entry times at 5pm and 6pm to reduce queuing times. enquiries@coam.org.uk www.coam.org.uk Fri 28 Oct - Night Owls Halloween Sleepover (EC2Y) What happens when the Museum of London doors close for the night? Find out at the ultimate spooky sleepover. Suggested ages: 7-11 years.

6.45pm-9.30am. www.museumoflondon.org.uk Sat 29 Oct - Room on the Broom Workshop (HA4) Head along to Ruislip Manor Library between 2 & 3pm for a fun interactive craft and story session based on Julia Donaldson’s story Room on the Broom. You will be able to create your own sock and/or glove puppet version of one of the characters, choosing between the witch, the cat, the frog or even the Dragon. Suitable for 4-11 year olds. www.hillingdon.gov.uk Sat 29 Oct - Halloween Spooktacular (HA2) Enjoy this annual, family friendly, Halloween Spooktacular inside the 500 year old Great Barn at Headstone Manor!

Enjoy spooky games and activities such as Potty Potion Brewing, Spooky Storytelling and (Un) Lucky dip ! There will also be a Putrid Pumpkin hunt trail, Revolting Raffle, Cursed (but tasty) Cake Stall, Frightening Face painting and Spooktacular Make and Takes! 12-5pm. www.harrowmuseum.org.uk

Sun 30 Oct - The Big Draw Workshop (HA5) The Big Draw Festival is for anyone who loves to draw, as well as those who think they can’t! This year’s theme is ‘The STEAM powered Big Draw’, with a focus on bringing creativity together with Science and technology. This special workshop at Harrow Arts Centre invites the whole family to go and spend an afternoon drawing together! www.thebigdraw.org Sun 30 Oct - Family Arts Festival: The Big Draw 2016 (N12) Artsdepots’ bumper day of drawing returns, jam-packed with activities for all ages. For one day only there will be lots of enjoyable drawing related activities for all ages all based around creativity, innovation and enterprise with the arts. 11am-4pm www.familyartsfestival.com Sun 30 Oct - Halloween: Bermuda Triangle (SE10) Build your own frankenbeast, explore an alien ocean and meet a monster hunter with a dangerous secret mission at this sci-fi themed day of family fun at the National Maritime Museum. Ghouls, ghosts, and pirates of all ages are welcome for this freaky festival of fun! www.rmg.co.uk

L Sun 30 Oct - Bushey Sports

Club Fireworks Night (WD23) Get set for a night of fireworks, fun and live music at the annual Bushey Sports Club Fireworks display.

Heart Radio’s Daniel Fox will be hosting, and there will be a fun fair and live music. Gates open at 4pm, with the fireworks display starting at 6pm. www.busheysportsclub.co.uk

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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.

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North West London OCTOBER 2016

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