Families_LONDONKENTBorders_julaug15

The essential magazine for parents of children aged 0–teens

Issue 26: Jul - Aug 2015

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LONDON–KENT BORDERS

Summer issue News & views Competitions Education news Clubs & classes Out & about

Plus... News, ‘Out & About’ & much more inside!

For families living the boroughs, Dartford & the surrounding of@familieslkb Kent Followinus onBromley Facebook&atBexley Families London–Kent Borders Magazine and onareas Twitter | 1

11+ Tests 11+Mock Mock Tests

CEM style11+ 11+for New style Bexley Tests Orpington / Kent

Orpington/Kent

CEM style 11+ Grammar Schools Bexley Tests

Dates: 28/3/15 Saturday Dates: 01/4/15 Wed Easter Hols Grammar schools 29/5/15 Fri Half Term 27/5/15 Wed Half Term 27/6/15 Saturday 23/7/15 Thursday ORPINGTON BEXLEY Where: Crofton Halls, Where: Hurst Community Dates: Thu 23.7.15 Dates: Sat 8.8.15 Crofton Road, Orpington Centre, Hurst Place, Hurst Rd,

Sat 1.8.15 BR6 8PR Bexley DA5 3LH

Thu 27.8.15* Where: Hurst Community Time: 1.30pm – 3.45pm Time: 9.30am - 1pm

Sat 5.9.15 Centre, Hurst Rd, Bexley DA5 Fee: £22.50 per paper including detailed 3LH feedback and online software to practise.

Where: Crofton Halls, Crofton Rd, Orpington BR6 8PRBOOK WOOLWICH NOW Dates: Tue 21.7.15 www.mocktestmasters.com includes Sat 15.8.15 Tests suitable for new FEEDBACK style ✔ Detailed report on your child’s St Olaves’ format, Newstead ✔ Strengths & weaknesses Where: 61 Plumstead Common Wood and Kent formats ✔Access to mock test questions & answers Rd, Woolwich SE1 3AS ✔ Your child’s answer papers returned

‘Amazing’

From £22.50 per paper including detailed feedback and free online software trial

Time Out

Hundreds of live butterflies Until 13 September Book now at www.nhm.ac.uk/sensational-butterflies Free for Members

BOOK NOW

www.mocktestmasters.com FEEDBACK includes

aDetailed report on your child’s strengths & weaknesses aAccess to mock test questions & answers aYour child’s answer papers returned

Maths & English tuition centre For 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities • • • •

Courses mapped to the National Curriculum.

Adapts to the individual needs of your child.

Convenient for families - Open 7 days a week.

Ofsted registered - we accept Childcare Vouchers.

Free trial session - book today!

Orpington Sidcup Crayford West Wickham

01689 867302 02037 141229 01322 352760 02037 002611

“Explore Learning members’ improvement in maths was 30% higher than that of the comparison group after controlling for gender, age, year group and special educational needs.”

Independent Efficacy Study by the Institute of Education at Reading University (2013). See www.explorelearning.co.uk/efficacy.

www.explorelearning.co.uk 2 | Jul - Aug 2015 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977 | 07792 006546

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Contents

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Issue 26: Jul - Aug 2015 1 99

UKfamilies3.pdf 1 1-6-2015 22:33:37

4-6 7 8-11 12-15

Neatlynamed means no more lost property!

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News, views & competitions Education news Clubs & classes Out & about

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Welcome!

Welcome back to our big summer issue and I do hope you are looking forward to the summer holidays which are coming up very soon, do not panic as we have it all covered for you. Letting you know how to spend some quality time with your family with our extra packed Out & About pages and in our Summer Clubs and Classes you won’t have a problem keeping everyone busy.

We still have some amazing competitions for you to enter with fantastic prizes.

I am sure you will all enjoy the holidays and I look forward to the next issue that is out in September, getting you all geared up for Back to School.

I really hope you all have a fantastic summer with lots of sunshine!

Mima Ismini Phillips - Familys Magazine advert AW 2710914_AW.pdf

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Follow us on Facebook at Families London–Kent Borders Magazine and on Twitter @familieslkb

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Editor: Mima Walia | 020 8466 6977 or 07792 006546 editor@familieslondonkent.co.uk

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What’s On Editor: Louise Kettlety

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Design: Toni Leo | www.leowoodcreative.co.uk

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Front cover: Image Studio | www.theimagestudio-uk.com

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Families London–Kent Borders. We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequences. Any original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s own risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families London–Kent Borders nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. Families London-Kent Borders is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence.

©

Follow us on Facebook at Families London–Kent Borders Magazine and on Twitter @familieslkb | 3

News, views & competitions Strider balance bikes competition

Win a family ticket Win a whole term of Monkey to experience Music Lessons! sensational Enter our Competition to win a whole term of award winning Monkey Music lessons for your baby, toddler or preschool child.

Monkey Music is giving away a FULL term’s subscription to their award winning lessons in the Dartford & Bexley area.

Classes are small and tailor-made and the teachers make full use of the lively sessions to captivate the children using a winning combination of catchy songs, percussion instruments, multi-sensory props and boundless energy, with lots of opportunities for the children to experiment with the instruments and make music of their own.

And the children simply love Monkey, the pink and yellow star of the show!

The second race in this year’s Strider balance bike Championship Series takes place at Kent’s fantastic Cyclopark on 6 September. The race is open to all Strider Riders ages 2-5 years old and it’s a fantastic and fun family day out. All riders will receive a medal and race plate to remind them of their day and the overall winner takes home a trophy!

Strider balance bikes teach kids to ride safely, simply and securely and over one million have been sold all over the world, meaning Strider has taught more toddlers to ride than any other brand.

Entry is just £10 per child to the next race day, and tickets can be bought here: http://www.striderbike.co.uk/ strider-championship-race.html There is a chance for one winner to win over £150 worth of the following prizes: • 12” Pro bike £100 • Race jersey £20 • Knee and elbow pads £14 • Race entry £10 • Gloves £12 To enter please simply answer the following question: Where is the Gravesend Cyclopark?

• Sussex • Kent • Surrey Please enter online www. familieslondonkent.co.uk closing date 24th July 2015

For more information visit www.monkeymusic.co.uk or email bexley.dartford@monkeymusic.co.uk To be in with a chance of winning, simply answer the following question: What colour is Monkey, the star of the Monkey Music show?

A Black and white B Pink and yellow C Green and brown

butterflies at the Natural History Museum!

We’re offering you the chance to win a family ticket to Sensational Butterflies, the unique exhibition currently running at the Natural History Museum until 13 September 2015.

Wander among hundreds of free-flying butterflies and moths from around the world in our tropical butterfly house in the heart of London. Follow the exhibition trail charting one of nature’s most incredible life cycles, as munching caterpillars transform into jewellike chrysalises and emerge as beautiful butterflies. For more information and to book tickets, visit www.nhm.ac.uk/visit/ exhibitions/sensational-butterflies

Please enter online www.familieslondonkent.co.uk closing date 31st August 2015.

Camp in, camp out, camp all about Summer holidays are a perfect time for kids to get creative and build a shelter or den.

Whether it’s a sheet between two clothes-airers, tablecloth over the back of the sofa or a rug over a rope between two trees, it’s a great way to encourage kids to work together and get inventive in creating a fun space to play. In fine weather why not sleep out in your den and experience the sights and sounds of night-time. Interested in a real camping experience? Girlguiding have a number of campsites across the country with on-site facilities including adventurous activities. To find our more www.girlguiding.org.ukactivitycentres

For a chance of winning the tickets, simply answer the following question: Q. Butterfly larvae go by what other name?

A. Ladybirds B. Caterpillars C. Crickets Ts & Cs: There will be 1 winner, winning a family ticket (two adults, up to three children), valid until Sunday 13 September 2015. The competition ends at midnight on Friday 31 July 2015. Prize cannot be exchanged for cash. Open to UK residents over the age of 18 only. Tickets are subject to availability. Promoter reserves the right to exchange the prize for one of equal or greater value.

4 | Jul - Aug 2015 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977 | 07792 006546

Donkey Derby Competition

The annual Bexley Donkey Derby returns to Danson Park Old Polo Field in Welling this year on Sunday 6th September from 12 noon til 5pm. Entry is £1 adult, kids go free.

There will be loads to see and do with donkey racing, donkey rides, funfair, stalls, food, ice cream & entertainment. The hilarious event is organised every year by Welling Round Table and all profit goes to their Charity to help local people.

For a chance to win a family VIP ticket including free entry, lunch, naming a donkey and starting a race, simply answer this question: Who organises the annual charity event? Please enter online: www. familieslondonkent.co.uk closing date 24th August 2015

Win free golf tuition at Tudor Park

Smart Forfour lets families share the fun

Revolutionary car seats

With the launch of the all-new forfour, smart, the pioneers of urban motoring have opened up a whole new world of opportunities for all the family to enjoy. By adding more seats, more doors and more space to the new smart forfour’s winning formula, the smart forfour is now one of the most versatile cars around and the perfect choice for families whose busy lifestyles take them inside and outside city limits.

A team of top designers, engineers and industry experts have together revolutionised the way that a traditional booster seat works. Regular booster seats raise a child upwards to fit an adult seat belt, their unique patented design does the exact opposite. Instead of lifting the child up, mifold actively lowers the adult seat belt to fit the child snugly, taking the belt off the stomach and the neck and making it comfortable, safe and easy to use for children from the age of 4 all the way up to 12 years.*

Don’t be fooled by that compact exterior, the smart forfour has plenty of room inside for a family of four, making it ideal for the daily school run or family weekend trip away. With 975 litres of cargo space and, once the rear seats are folded, an even more spacious and clever load area, there’s heaps of room for all those shopping bags, bikes and buggies of everyday family life. With best-in-class, wide-opening rear doors that open all the way out to an angle of 85 degrees, access to the ISOFIX-compatible rear “readyspace” seating is also easy, making child seat fitting trouble-free.

In the UK it is a legal requirement to have a child booster seat for any child travelling in a car under the age of 12 and most parents have booster seats available in their own car for each of their children. However there are still many journeys, such as cab rides, holidays and outings with grandparents or school friends where an appropriate booster seat is not available mifold is truly the Graband-GoTM booster seat.

To find out more and to be one of the first people to own a mifold visit www. mifold.com

Get to grips with the new style St Olave’s 11+ exam

WIN! Your child can enjoy a whole week of free golf tuition during the summer holidays, thanks to Tudor Park Marriot Hotel & Country Club in Bearsted, near Maidstone.

It has teamed up with Families Magazine to offer a place on one of its summer junior golf camps, which run from Monday to Friday, August 3-7 and again August 17-21.

The camps give 5 to 16 year olds the chance to learn golf or improve their skills with a PGA Golf Professional. Older, more experienced golfers play 9 holes each day with tuition followed by a competition.

Younger, less experienced golfers have tuition on the range and then competitions on the golf course.

The camps cost as little as £15 per morning or £60 per week. However, you could be lucky and win a free place for your son or daughter for the whole of the second week, August 17-21, by simply answering this question: Where in Maidstone are the summer golf camps being held?

Please enter online www. familieslondonkent.co.uk closing date 24th July 2015. For more information call the Golf Shop on 01622 739412.

The 11+ exams format for entry into St Olave’s grammar school has recently changed. Previously boys were required to sit a Maths and English paper to gain entry into the school. They are now required to sit a combination of Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning in two stages.

STAGE 1 The Selective Eligibility Test (SET) papers comprise of Maths, English, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning in a 1 hour paper.

STAGE 2 Stage 2 papers of Maths, English Comprehension & Writing will be taken by those who pass Stage 1 and is by invitation only.

Available in three models and over 40 colour schemes to choose from. For more information please go to www.thesmart. co.uk

11+ MockTestMasters. have written some new test papers (in a similar format to the sample papers) for children who wish to sit a mock test. To book please, visit www. mocktestmasters.com

Follow us on Facebook at Families London–Kent Borders Magazine and on Twitter @familieslkb | 5

The Image Studio... Creating inspiring photography

This service is available from 9.30am to 5pm, Tuesdays to Saturdays.

To find out more about Image Studio visit www.theimagestudio-uk.com

Nestled in extensive private grounds close to beautiful woodland and within easy reach of London and the Kent countryside, Image Studio is the finest photographic studio in the area offering inspiring portrait photography both in the studio and outdoors. Its Chislehurst studio, situated within the picturesque grounds of The Beaverwood Club, has been creating unique family portraits since 1994 and the distinctive contemporary feel of the images together with its modern, relaxed and fun approach to family photography sees customers returning year after year.

Email: imagestudio@btconnect.com www.theimagestudio-uk.com

Popular packages include the Cherub Scheme, Bump to Baby, Family Portraits, Location shots in its private woodland, Makeovers and the ever-popular Pet Photography. Plus, the studio provides an express Passport Photo Service for those last minute passport applications.

Image Studio, Beaverwood Club, Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 6HF | Tel: 020 8309 9406

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ imagestudiochislehurst Twitter: @TheImageStudio1

Families offer

Image Studio is offering Families readers 50% off any sitting fee and 10% off all purchases. To book your photo shoot call 020 8309 9406 and quote FAM15.

Image Studio is the official Cherubs Portrait MPA photographer for the area, recently adding Bromley and Sidcup to its Chislehurst, Eltham, Orpington, Petts Wood and Swanley postcodes.

The Cherubs scheme offers both a beautiful Bump to Baby photographic shoot, complete with a newborn photographic session, and a Cherubs folio shoot capturing those special moments from newborn to toddler.

For more information call 020 8309 9406.

Offer valid until 31 August 2015.

(Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer).

6 | Jul - Aug 2015 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977 | 07792 006546

Education news Avoid the Summer learning slide & save £50 with Explore Learning maths & English tuition this July!

Award-Winning 11+ Specialists

11+ Tuition For children in Years 4 & 5

11+ Intensive Revision 5* 4 £ m y o

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Toda l o r En

The school holidays are almost here, and we’re sure learning will be the last thing on a child’s mind. However, research has revealed that two thirds of children fall behind in their studies over the holidays, meaning that when they finally go back to school, many children are lacking in confidence and unable to recall things they learnt in the previous school year.

Of course, we’re not saying it should all be work, work, work – but just a couple of hours a week to keep you topped up can make the world of difference when September comes around.

Families joining in July will save £50 registration fee at participating centres, so now is a great time to join if you haven’t already!

Explore Learning has maths and English tuition centres across the UK try us for free to find out how your family can benefit!

To book your trial, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk or call your local centre for more information.

Only

£79*

“Find out why over 98% of our parents recommend us to family & friends” *Courses are subject to £15 registration fee. Offer ends 31/07/15.

INE ONL RSES COU 11+

1Month Course + FREE

Bonus Week

Over 10 Years Experience Daily Online Tests in Maths, English, Verbal & NVR Tutor Support & Feedback Excellent Success Rates

Personalised 11+ Tuition Call to book your FREE 11+ trial today

0121 733 6558 www.ksol.co.uk

Finalist 2012

Get motivated for the 11+ These final months are crucial in the build up to the 11+ exam so it is vital that your child does not lose focus or run out of steam.

VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS

11+ VERBAL REASONING VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS Expand your antonym and synonym knowledge Cards specifically created from recognised 11+ material

If you would like to feature in the next issue please call Mima on: 020 8466 6977 or 07792 006546 Or email: editor@families londonkent.co.uk

With over 10 years of experience preparing children for the 11+, KSOL are here to help you through this final stage.

Katie Newton, lead tutor at KSOL says: “A little every day is key. Get your child to complete daily tests, review their notes or use revision cards to keep everything at the forefront of their minds. Remember to offer encouragement all the way!”

Find out how KSOL can help your child at ksol.co.uk or call 0121 733 6558 to enquire about the 1 Month Intensive Revision Course with FREE bonus week and other revision products.

www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk Follow us on Facebook at Families London–Kent Borders Magazine and on Twitter @familieslkb | 7

Summer clubs & classes

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October half term course, 26-30 October 9.15am - 10.45am Book now to avoid disappointment Booking forms available on our website soon!

Swimming is an essential life skill - so make sure you get it right!

Visit our website: www.aquakids.co.uk Follow us on Twitter: @aquakidsuk Connect with us on Facebook: Aquakids

Swimming Lessons that last a lifetime

8 | Jul - Aug 2015 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977 | 07792 006546

If you would like to feature in the next issue please call Mima on: 020 8466 6977 or 07792 006546 Or email: editor@families londonkent.co.uk

Learn to grow, cook, make, mend with Splatter Make’s Summer Holiday classes Children from 2-18 – and their families - can have fun, discover their creative side, learn lifelong skills, build confidence and make friends at Splatter Make’s summer holiday classes in Beckenham.

Starting on Monday 20 July, Splatter Make has 6-week calendar packed full of exciting workshops that span everything from fashion design, cooking, jewellery making and French knitting to graffiti art, dance, drama, bike maintenance and tie dye. Plus much more! For under-5s there’s; mini cooking, games, toys and storytelling sessions.

‘Make do and mend’ was the ethos by which our grandparents, great grandparents and even great, great grandparents lived during wartime when resources were scarce. Yet, many of the skills that became second nature to them, such as cooking, growing and preserving, sewing and repair have been lost over generations. These talents are just as relevant today when budgets are tight and too much food and waste is going to landfill. Simple crafts, re-learned, will last children a lifetime. They could contribute pounds to the family budget, help reduce the strain on our planet’s environment and teach young people to become more responsible adults with valuable skills and knowledge they can pass down to their own children.

Splatter Make was created by local mum, Amanda with a mission - to teach us the skills that are being forgotten from changing a fuse to growing and cooking your own vegetables. Now, there is a thriving and developing community of like-minded people who are sharing the fun and reaping the benefits – whether it’s hanging wallpaper, altering clothes or making jam.

What to expect Take a look at our programme of summer classes and you will see there is something for everyone. Most sessions last around two hours with some designed as a course to run over 3 days. Starting from as little as £8. Book now to take advantage of early bird prices. Our KHY (Know How You) classes are for 13yrs upwards and adults so you can pick up life skills in a neighbouring class knowing that your child is also having fun, learning and most importantly, in a safe environment. So while you may be making an ‘all the rage’ vintage 1950s pinny, your children could be learning how to use a sewing machine, discovering that they have the baking talent to become the next Paul Hollywood or perhaps a budding actor, producer or stage director.

When you visit, take a look around. We also hire out our studios for birthday parties and events, which our team can help you to organise.

Our Summer Holiday Classes are aimed at children 2 to 18 years.

How to Book Ring us on 020 8658 1634 or email: info@splattermake.co.uk Find out more at www.splattermake.co.uk or Facebook.com/ SplatterMake Pop in: The Basement, Venue 28, 28 Beckenham Road, Beckenham BR3 4LS. Entry via Tradesman’s Entrance.

Children’s classes

GROW COOK MAKE MEND SUMMER

HOLIDAY CLASSES

Ordinary people doing extraordinary things!

Children’s classes running this summer

Graffiti Street Art Fashion Design Drama Dance Mighty Me Club Time Together Mighty Cookery Club Makers Club What’s in the Box Pantry Cooking Club Baking Workshop Learn to Sew plus much more...

Rediscover the fun and build your confidence in learning skills in Growing, Cooking, Making and Mending. Let’s leave our phones at home, get our hands messy and our minds ticking.

Contact us

T: 020 8658 1634 E: info@splattermake.co.uk W: splattermake.co.uk facebook.com/SplatterMake @SplatterMake

Tradesman’s Entrance The Basement Venue 28 28 Beckenham Road Beckenham BR3 4LS

We look forward to seeing you this summer!

Follow us on Facebook at Families London–Kent Borders Magazine and on Twitter @familieslkb | 9

PQA Come and have fun this summer holidays at our PQA Chislehurst and Sidcup Summer School Musical Week! Your chance to play a main role in a West End musical and hone your skills in singing, dancing and acting!

Perform in a showcase at the end of the week! Plus experience an exclusive West End Master Class with a surprise guest West End Star!

er Summs & club es class

Mon 17 August - Friday 21 August 3-5 years 10am - 12pm - Disney Musicals PQA Students £50 / Non PQA Students £60 6 -18 years 10am - 4pm - West End Musical

FREE TRIALS in our new centre for September 2015 – book now! We will be opening in Tunbridge Wells in September 2015 and are offering a completely free trial. Term classes also available to book in Bromley. Register your interest now to reserve a place or to be kept up to date with our progress!

PQA Students £90 / Non PQA Students £100 Contact: Heather 07730770455 Email: heather@pqacademy.com

If you would like to feature in the next issue please call Mima on: 020 8466 6977 or 07792 006546 or email: editor@ familieslondonkent.co.uk

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Funky Monkey Electronic Keyboard Holiday Workshops Sevenoaks Summer Workshop – book now!

Funky Monkey’s electronic keyboard workshops are brilliant ‘taster’ courses for 4-8 year beginners. One or five day courses are running between 27th July and 14th August and we teach to read, play and write notes C-A alongside learning keyboard technique and countless musicbased activities including composition, artwork, singing and performance skills. All equipment provided! Please visit our website for full details and to book or call for more details – we look forward to welcoming you!

Perform Drama, dance and singing classes. Term-time, afterschool and Saturday’s.

Venues all over London & Kent. Free trial classes during term time.

Summer Holiday Course The Ice Queen throughout July & August. Ages 4-7.

Call 0800 107 7949 or go online www. funkymonkey.info

The Ice Queen Summer Holiday Course Venues: Beckenham: St George’s Church Hall, Albermarle Road, Kids’ uniform going astray?

Beckenham, Kent, BR3 5HZ 27 Jul - 31 Jul, 10am - 12pm

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Splatter Make Learn To Grow, Cook, Make, Mend With Splatter Make’s Summer Holiday Children’s Classes In Beckenham.

Splatter Make As recommended by

has 6-week calendar packed full of exciting workshops that span everything BUY OF THE DAYfrom fashion design, cooking, jewellery making and French knitting to graffiti art, dance, drama, bike maintenance and tie dye. Plus much more! For under5s there’s; mini cooking, games, toys and storytelling sessions.

Sevenoaks: The Parish Church of St Luke, Eardley Road, The easy one-snap Sevenoaks, Kent, TN13 1XT way- 4:30pm to label and clothing!

3 Aug - 7 Aug, 2:30pm 24 Aug Classes kick off Monday 20 July for children - 28 Aug, 2:30pm - 4:30pm PUSH—CLICK— SNAPPED ON! aged 2 upwards.

We have a jam-packed Brought to you by Say It Personally Ltd calendar, which spans everything from Tunbridge Wells: Call: (0844) 5611994 fashion design, cooking, jewellery making Christ Church Centre, High Street, Tunbridge Keep tabs their clothes... www.snappytags.co.uk and drama workshops. Starting from as little Wells, Kent, TN1on 1UT as 2.

3 Aug - 7 Aug, 10am - 12pm and 24 Aug 28 Aug, 10am - 12pm T: 020 8658 1634 / e: info@splattermake.

To book please Phone: 0845 400 4000 or co.uk / w: splattermake.co.uk Email: enquiries@perform.org.uk As recommended by

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0844 5611994 www.snappytags.co.uk 10 | Jul - Aug 2015 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977 | 07792 006546

Out & about

Have endless fun in London with a Merlin Annual Pass With a Merlin Annual Pass, you and your family can enjoy 12 months packed with adventure in 31 Magical Worlds across the UK – including London’s most famous attractions and fantastical theme parks just a short trip away.

These worlds are bursting with astonishing sights, spectacular thrills and wondrous contraptions that will fill your family with utter delight. They have rollercoasters and water rides, famous stars and infamous rogues, sensational sea creatures and awesomely exotic animals. They include Madame Tussauds, the Dungeons, CocaCola London Eye, LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, Chessington World of Adventures Resort, THORPE PARK Resort, SEA LIFE London Aquarium. They’ll make you giggle with joy, gasp with surprise and gawp in disbelief. And they promise endless fun for any age.

To experience the magic, simply unleash your imagination and decide where to start.

Maybe dive down into the murky ocean

depths to see incredible sea creatures and go eyeball to eyeball with our deadly sharks.

Or go on safari to see exotic animals of all shapes and sizes.

Alternatively, sneak up next to your favourite superstar – either from this world or a galaxy far, far away – and capture a moment you’ll remember forever. Venture down into our dark, dank Dungeons and tiptoe around truly terrifying villains, or see your children take charge behind the wheel in LEGO® City Driving School.

Then again, why stick to the roads when you can take to the air? The incredible, 360° views from Coca-Cola London Eye offer timeless fun for everyone. And if you prefer fun that’s seriously fast, we have rollercoasters – lots of rollercoasters.

Climbing like a rocket, dropping like a stone, looping the loop, backwards and forwards, you’ll be screaming like a banshee – and coming back for more.

To unlock all these worlds for 12 sensational months, simply buy a Merlin Annual Pass from just £129pp at any one of our 31 worlds, online at www. merlinannualpass.co.uk or over the phone on 08444 774444.

Then unleash your inner wizard, enjoy amazing adventures and experience a year of incredible, astonishing, extraordinary fun!

BUY YOURS NOW Follow us on Facebook at Families London–Kent Borders Magazine and on Twitter @familieslkb | 11

Out & about Days out

Fish and Chip Suppers Enjoy a delicious ‘Fish and Chip Supper’ on board a diesel-hauled train as the sun sets. The train will travel through the beautiful Rother Valley between Tenterden and Bodiam and, if you are lucky, you may even see a Barn Owl hunting across the grasslands. Pre booking is essential.

6 - 9:15pm / £25 adults, £19.50 children.

Every other Wed from 8 July. Kent & East Sussex Railway , Tenterden Town Station, Station Road, Tenterden, Kent, TN30 6HE 01580 765155 www.kesr.org.uk

Kent County Show The Kent County Show is the region’s showcase event for farming, countryside and rural life. 2015 is an exciting year for all aspects of the Show. Visitors will experience a more hands on Show with better access to the cattle marquee, shire stables on site, flower and woodland craft workshops, cookery demonstrations, more live music and the Why Farming Matters Discovery Zone. The main ring display will be the Met Police Horses Activity Ride where the public will get to see these impressive animals in action and get to meet them after their display in the Astor Ring. Titan the Robot and the UK Pole Climbing Championships

will be returning and once again the majestic spitfire will fly overhead. / Gate pricesAdult £22, Child £6, Family £48 (2x adult + 2x children), Concession £15. Discounted tickets available online. Children under 5 go FREE and Car Parking is FREE. From 10 July to 12 July. Kent Showground Detling , Maidstone, Kent, ME14 3JF 01622 630975 kentshowground.co.uk

Two Counties Music Festival The Two Counties Music Festival returns for its 2nd year featuring great groups and artists from Kent and Sussex, plus lots of fun for all the family including; kids entertainers, face painters, kids fishing, trade stands, bike hire and more! 6-11pm Friday, Midday - 11 Saturday. / £6 per person per day, £10 per person - 2 day ticket. - Tickets and Camping Tickets are available online now. From 10 July to 11 July. Bewl Water Country Park, Bewlbridge Lane Royal Tunbridge Wells Kent, TN3 8JH 01892 890000 www. bewlwater.co.uK

Teddy Bears Picnic Bring your teddy along and get a certificate for you and your bear, take part in storytelling and teddy bear races. Why not have a go part in a wooden bear hunt, treat your teddy to a donkey ride, whizz around the *quad bikes track (all bears under 4 must be accompanied) and meet some of

the other cuddly creatures in cuddle corner.

10am - 5pm / Adults: £9.50, Concessions: £8.50, Children (3 -15): £7.50, Under 3’s: FREE, Members: FREE, Teddy Bears: FREE From 11 July to 12 July. Kent Life Heritage Farm Park, Lock Lane, Sandling Maidstone, Kent , ME14 3AU 01622 763936 www.kentlife.org.uk

Day Out With Thomas The Tank Engine Thomas the Tank Engine will be pulling into Tenterden Station, bringing some of his favourite friends too! Don’t miss all the activities with Uncle Myles, Charlie the Clown and Billy the Magic Rabbit. There will also be face painting, roundabout rides and a bouncy castle. The Fat Controller opens the gates at 10.00am sharp so make sure you get to the station early to enjoy the whole day. Trains depart from Tenterden Station at 10.20am, 10.55am, 11.55am, 12.30pm, 1.25pm, 2.00pm & 3.00pm / ADULT £17.00 / CHILD [18mths - 15yrs] £13.00 / FAMILY [2Ad and 2Ch] £51.50 / Upgrade to First Class for £4 per person.

Babies [under 18mths] are carried free of charge providing they do not occupy a seat.

From 25 July to 26 July. Kent & East Sussex Railway, Tenterden Town Station, Station Rd, Tenterden, Kent, TN30 6HE 01580 765155 dayoutwiththomas.co.uk

12 | Jul - Aug 2015 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977 | 07792 006546

Big 7 Scooter Rally Coming to The Hop Farm, the Big 7 Scooter Rally is a weekend of live bands, DJ’s, vintage scooters, hot food, custom show, market and more. Camping available.

From 31 July to 2 August. The Hop Farm Family Park , Paddock Wood , Tonbridge , Kent , TN12 6PY 01622 872068 www.thebig7scooterrally.com

Mini-Beasts Discovery Day Find out what creatures lurk in the under growth at Haysden Country Park. Booking is advisable, limited places. 10am-12noon.

19 August. Haysden Country Park, Lower Haysden Lane, Tonbridge, Kent, TN11 9BB 01732 876166 www.tmbc.gov.uk

Ozone Festival

Ozone is a unique family festival encompassing a huge range of content, music and activities to engage all the family. Whether its inspirational talks from well-known speakers, or engaging arts and crafts for the youngsters, all the family will be entertained for the weekend.

Ozone Festival is a completely drug and alcohol free environment, making it safer and more encompassing for children.

Ozone’s fair price policy means that a cup of tea will only cost you 50p, whilst eating out will be affordable every night!

Ozone Festival is held on a beautiful site near Headcorn in Kent, from the 31st July – 02nd August. For more information, like us on Facebook or visit ozonefestival.co.uk.

Summer Fun at the Farm!

The Hop Farm Family Park is open every day, and for the forthcoming Summer school holidays we have some really special fun lined up for the kids! In addition to all our popular attractions which include the Animal Farm, 4D Cinema, Bumper Boats, Inflatable Slides, we have Donkey Rides, Sheep Racing, Crazy Animal Shows, Live Bandstand Music and Field Sports. Our indoor entertainment team have show throughout the day and why not check out our new retro-50’s ice cream diner called Hopper’s Cream & Ice Bar – serving award-winning local Kent ice cream and sorbets from Taywell. The Hop Farm is free to enter and on offer is a Farm Wristband which gives all day access to the Animal Farm, Indoor Entertainment Shows and Indoor Soft Play. It costs only £10 for a family of 4 (2A & C) – a cheap family day out at Kent’s leading visitor attraction. More information at hopfarm. co.uk or call 01622 872068. 25 July - 2 September

The Natural History Museum comes alive this summer with Sensational Butterflies Follow chomping caterpillars turning into beautiful butterflies, in the exhibition Sensational Butterflies, now in its seventh year. Step through the humid greenery as the exhibition takes you on the transformational journey of one of nature’s most incredible life cycles. Following the trail leads you past munching caterpillars, jewel-like chrysalises and interactive displays, while hundreds of striking butterflies and moths flutter above your head.

“Sensational Butterflies is a rare chance to see butterflies and moths usually seen in Africa, Asia and South America” says Dr Blanca Huertas, curator of butterflies and moths at the Natural History Museum.

“It is a chance to see these beautiful creatures in flight and to contemplate their delicate balance with their environment here in the city”.

Other highlights include: · An outdoor butterfly garden with tips on how to attract butterflies and create your own butterfly garden at home. · Games and activities exploring surprising butterfly facts. · The chance to watch butterflies emerge from their chrysalises through the hatchery window. · A riot of colourful tropical plants in the house and garden. · Tips and advice from the butterfly house manager.

For more information and to book tickets, visit www.nhm.ac.uk/visit/ exhibitions/sensational-butterflies

Theatre & film The Three Musketeers

“All for One- and One for All” Can D’Artagnan and the King’s elite guards foil the plan for Cardinal Richelieu and Milady de Winter? Join us for Illyria’s open-air theatre performance of Alexandre Dumas’ classic tale about romance, intrigue, swordplay, murder and betrayal. Booking Essential.

7pm - 9pm. Adult £15, Child £9 11 July. Ightham Mote, Mote Road, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 0NT 01732 810378 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ightham-mote

Big Screen Outdoor Cinema – Ghostbusters (1984, cert. PG) Experience a classic film on the big screen under the stars. Bring a rug or low-backed chair to sit on. Picnics welcome or enjoy the hot food and bar on site. Strictly limited capacity and all tickets must be bought in advance. 9:15pm (gates open 7:45pm) / Tickets £12.50 adults, £8.50 children

(5-15yrs) plus booking fee. Hall Place and Gardens , Bourne Road , Bexley , DA5 1PQ. 01322 621238 www.thelunacinema. com. 22 July.

Horrible Histories - Groovy Greeks & Incredible Invaders It’s time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories two new shows live on stage!

Using actors and amazing 3D special effects, the astounding Horrible History shows are guaranteed to thrill as historical figures and events come alive on stage and hover at your fingertips. Discounted tickets available if both shows booked together.

Visit website for details. The Orchard Theatre, Dartford, The Orchard Theatre , Home Gardens, Dartford, Kent, DA1 1ED 01322 220000 www.orchardtheatre.co.uk From 23 July to 26 July.

Open Air Cinema - The Lion King (rated PG) Grab snacks, a picnic blanket and perhaps a warm jumper and get the kids together to have a fun evening out watching top blockbuster film The Lion King. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Gates open at 7.30pm and Film starts at 8.30pm. / £15 for 16yrs +/ £8 for under 16s / Under 3s FREE / £40 for a family of 2 adults and 2 children. 16 August. Coolings Green & Pleasant, Main Road, Knockholdt, TN14 7LJ 01959 534386 www.coolings.co.uk

Arts & Crafts

Peg Dollies or Stick Men Old fashioned fun! Spend time together and get creative making peg dolls or stick men – or perhaps a whole family! For ages 3+ 11am-4pm / Free after normal admission.

From 29 July to 2 August. Riverhill Himalayan Gardens, Riverhill , Sevenoaks Kent , TN15 0RR 01732 459777 www.riverhillgardens.co.uk

Ruxley Rascals: Bird & Bug Suncatcher Windchimes Glass effect acrylic pendants with chimes... choose one bird and one bug and decorate with our special glass pens. Booking required. 10AM - 3PM / £3.00. From 3 August to 7 August. Ruxley Manor Garden Centre, Maidstone Road, Sidcup, DA14 6BQ 020 8300 0084. ruxley-manor.co.uk

Mini raft & kite making Tick off some items on your ‘50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾’ list and join the rangers as they take you through everything you need to know about making mini rafts and kites. Ideal for children between 5 and 12. Booking Essential. 2pm - 3:30 pm / All tickets £5 after Normal Admission Charges.

7 August. Sissinghurst Castle Garden, Biddenden Rd , Cranbrook , Kent , TN17 2AB 01580 710701 www.nationaltrust. org.uk/sissinghurst-castle-garden

Paint a Pebble Animal Unleash your creativity by designing and painting your very own pebble animal!

Booking required. 10AM - 3PM / £3.00.

From 10 August to 14 August. Ruxley Manor Garden Centre, Maidstone Road, Sidcup, DA14 6BQ 020 8300 0084 www.ruxley-manor.co.uk

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Out & about Enjoy a summer of fun with Bluewater With summer in the air and the school holidays around the corner, let Bluewater make planning your days easy with a host of activities and ideas for the ultimate family day out.

There’s no better way to spend time together than pitting the old (but young at heart) against the little ones for a bit of healthy family competition. Indulge in a round of crazy golf and explore the caves, cascading waterfalls and 36-hole adventure course at Bluewater’s Pirate Cove Adventure Park. After working up an appetite, take advantage of Bluewater’s extensive range of restaurants and bars and treat yourself to a delicious meal.

Satisfied after a relaxing lunch in the sun, treat your little ones to an afternoon at Splat, Bluewater’s very own soft play zone for under 8s, located next door to the famous LEGO store.

Introducing a holiday feel into the fun packed play area and surrounded by palm trees, the kids will feel like they’re on holiday all over again! For more great offers and ideas for the ultimate summer day out, visit www.bluewater.co.uk

The Three Little Pigs

He can huff and puff until the cows comes home, but will the Big Bad Wolf get the better of the three little superstar piglets in this brand new retelling of the classic story? Full of catchy songs, jokes and japes for little ones and parents alike, this endearing musical will leave you squealing with glee and howling with laughter. For ages 3+. May not be suitable for vegetarians. Tickets from £15.

5 August - 6 September, PALACE THEATRE, Cambridge Circus, Shaftsbury Avenue W1D 7DY, 0844 482 9676, www. nimaxtheatres.com/palace-theatre

Blackland Farm Outdoor Activity Centre

Birthday parties and day trips

Overnights Kayaking Canoeing and holidays Bungeetrampolining Rock climbing Archery Crate challenge Zip wire Abseiling Aeroball... ...and many more!

Camping and self-catering facilities available

d Farm Blacklan

Registered charity number 306016.

14 | Jul - Aug 2015 | www.familieslondonkent.co.uk | 020 8466 6977 | 07792 006546

01342 810493 blackland@girlguiding.org.uk www.blacklandfarm.org.uk

Let’s go, go, go!

There’s no stopping the family fun at Bluewater. It’s bursting with brilliant.

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From the creators of Alice’s Adventures Underground.

Les Petits, Emma Brünjes Productions with Creature of London present

“MAGICAL” Parenting Without Tears

“UNMISSABLE” The Stage

MUST END AUGUST THE VAULTS, WATERLOO www.alice-underground.com lespetitsadventures

@aliceunderLDN

“I loved it” Michael Morpurgo

4 WEEKS ONLY – 1st TO 30th AUGUST www.nimaxtheatres.com | 0844 482 9675

Vaudeville Theatre @wizardpresents #wizardunicorns WizardPresentsTheatreCompany