Families Surrey West Jan Feb 2019

Nurseries and Childcare What’s On including Feb half term

PLANNING & & DESIGN DESIGN SERVICE SERVICE PLANNING & DESIGN SERVICE PLANNING PLANNING & DESIGN SERVICE PLANNING & DESIGN SERVICE PLANNING & DESIGN SERVICE Architectural drawings for Architectural drawings for Architectural drawings for PLANNING & DESIGN SERVICE Architectural drawings for Extensions, Alterations & New New Build PLANNING & DESIGN SERVICE Extensions, Alterations & Build Architectural drawings for Build Extensions, Alterations & New Architectural drawings for Extensions, Alterations & Build Extensions, Alterations & New New Build Architectural drawings for Extensions, Alterations & New Free No Obligation Obligation Quotations Architectural drawings forBuild Free No Quotations Free No Obligation Quotations Extensions, Alterations & New Free No Obligation Quotations Extensions, AlterationsQuotations & New Build Build Free No Obligation FreeTel: No Obligation Quotations 01483 417555 Tel: 01483 417555 417555 Free No Obligation Quotations Tel: 01483 Free No Obligation Quotations Tel: 01483 Mob: 07818417555 014357

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01483

www.hatties Issue 70 Jan/Feb 2019

familiesonline.co.uk

FOR EVERYON

Ninja Knights classe

What’s in this issue

FOR EVERYON NINJA KNIGHT

4-5 news & Views 6

raising a Compassionate Child

7

a new Concept of Swimming Education

advertise your parties in our Parties Feature in our next issue!

next issue: March/April issue.

advertise: To advertise contact Sarah on 01737 558898 or email editor@FamiliesSurreyWest.co.uk.

8-13 The Early years and Childcare

FOR EVERYON NINJA KNIGHT PARTY ROOMS

14-16 Schools and Education

Features: In our next issue we have a Parties Feature so contact us now to promote your parties or venue!

17-20 What’s On Diary 22 Holiday Camps and Children’s Theatre

Keep in touch: like us at

www.facebook.com/FamiliesSurreyWestMag/

Special offers in this issue: • Save £40 with Perform - page 4 • Two week free trial with Kumon - page 5 • Book early and save 10% with SCL holiday

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Village Hall, Jacobs Well Guildford, Jacobs Well Rd, We also do Village Hall, 90 Minute 4 Sessions GU4 7PD FSW Magazine Ltd is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company.

All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated Guildford, Jacobs Well Jacobs Well parties Jacobs Well Rd, SessionsFamilies is a registered per day under licence. trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The GU4 7PD Village Village Hall, Jacobs Hall, Well Jacobs Well Guildford, contents SurreyWe West fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form Each session of runsFamilies for 90 host 4 are sessions per day, 7 days Imagination can be hired excluJacobs Well Rd, Jacobs Well Rd, Village Hall, Village Hall, GU4 7PD parties, please minutes. Weprior have a 30 minute a week.

09:30, 11:30,Ltd. 13:30 and sively for Birthday without consent of FSW Magazine Every care is taken in the Guildford, Guildford, Jacobs Well Jacobs Rd, Well Rd, preparation of this magazine, but FSW Magazine Ltd, our distributors, the break between each session.

15:30. contact us for more details. franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing GU4 7PD GU4 7PDcannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the Guildford, Guildford, contents, or any consequence thereof.

GU4 7PD GU4 7PD

Ve

We are currently recruiting for a variety of roles across our nurseries. In return we provide: • A competitive salary package, including pension and occupational sick pay • Increasing annual leave with each complete year of service • Holiday purchase scheme • Paid time off for dependents • Discounts and savings at over 1000 retailers through Toad Hall Rewards • 50% staff discount on childcare places and 25% discount for one family member too!

• Bonus scheme for all staff • Excellent training and development opportunities

Do you have a passion for working with young children Do a youdesire have a passion for working with young children and a desire help them and to help them flourish in a caring andtonurturing flourish in a caring and nurturing environment? environment?

Would you like the chance to bring stories to life and develop a young child’s

Would you like the chance to bring stories to life and imagination? develop a young child’s imagination?

If you would like a career in childcare then you could work with a friendly, fun,

• Monthly staff recognition scheme

inspirational team who value every child and member of staff.

If you would like a career in childcare then you could work • Annual Christmas party for all Toad We are currently recruiting for a variety of roles acrosswho our nurseries. a friendly, fun, inspirational every Hall staff Do you have a passion forwith working with young children and team a- desire tovalue help them In return we provide: child and member of staff.

• A competitive salary package, including pension and occupational sick pay

flourish in a caring and nurturing environment?

•

Increasing annual leave with each complete year of service

Holiday purchase scheme To apply, please send your •CV to recruitment@toadhall-nursery.co.uk

• Paid off for stories dependents to life and develop a young child’s Would you like the chance totime bring

• Discount and savings at over 1000 retailers through Toad Hall Rewards For further details, please visit our website www.toadhall-nursery.co.uk imagination?

• 50% staff discount on childcare places and 25% discount for one family member too!

• Bonus scheme for all staff We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, • Excellent training and development opportunities If orientation, you would a career childcare then yousafeguarding could work withand a friendly, national origin, gender, sexual age,like marital status,• orin disability Wescheme take seriously follow safe fun, recruitment Monthly staffstatus. recognition • Annual Christmas party for all Toadfor Hallthis staffrole. procedures.

An enhanced DBS check will be required inspirational team who value every child and member of staff.

To apply, please send your CV to recruitment@toadhall-nursery.co.uk

• • • • • • • • • •

We are currently recruiting for a variety of roles across our nurseries. further details, please visit our website www.toadhall-nursery.co.uk In For return we provide: A competitive salary package, including pension and occupational sick pay We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, Increasing annual leave with complete yearsexual of service religion,each colour, national origin, gender, orientation, age, marital status, or disability status. We take safeguarding seriously and follow safe recruitment procedures. An enhanced DBS check will be required for this role.

Holiday purchase scheme Paid time off for dependents Discount and savings at over 1000 retailers through Toad Hall Rewards 50% staff discount on childcare places and 25% discount for one family member too!

Bonus scheme for all staff Singing, dancing and acting classes Excellent training and development opportunities for 4 - 18 year-olds Monthly staff recognition scheme Annual Christmas party for all Toad Hall staff

Helping children believe they can do anything

CAMBERLEY GUILDFORD To apply, please send your CV to recruitment@toadhall-nursery.co.uk 01243 585766 0208 892 5177 stagecoach.co.uk/camberley

stagecoach.co.uk/guildford

GODALMING 01252 319 133 stagecoach.co.uk/godalming

LIPHOOK 01425 470 934 stagecoach.co.uk/liphook

For further details, please visit our website www.toadhall-nursery.co.uk

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company.

We do not discriminateWOKING on the basis of race, FARNHAM religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, or disability status. We take safeguarding 01252 216277 07957 825641 stagecoach.co.uk/farnham seriously and follow safe recruitment procedures. An enhanced DBS check will be requiredstagecoach.co.uk/woking for this role.

FARNBOROUGH & FRIMLEY 01252 216277 stagecoach.co.uk/farnborough

Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.

familiesonline.co.uk

Families Surrey West 3

News & Views Refurbishment for Brookham Nursery Nestled in the South Downs National Park, yet a stone’s throw from fast links to London, Brookham Nursery provides an outstanding start to a child’s educational journey. The newly refurbished Nursery has been beautifully redesigned in order to reflect the school’s stunning grounds by using natural tones and materials. This tranquil and spacious environment with free access to the outdoors, has been created to feel like a home from home. The calm and thoughtfully designed space enables children to focus on quality learning experiences, whether curled up on a beanbag sharing a story with a teacher, expressing their creativity with a paintbrush or glue stick in hand or designing obstacle courses in the garden with logs, blocks and planks.

The children’s learning is also enhanced by weekly Spanish, PE, swimming, music and ballet sessions, all led by additional specialist teachers. For availability please email: admissions@brookhamschool.co.uk

New Music Classes Run by a Music Therapist Launching in Guildford Little Bear’s music provides hands on music making classes for children aged 3 months to 4 years. Classes are led by Holly Hitchen, a professional Music Therapist with over 15 years’ experience of working with young children. Little Bear’s music classes have been designed with the aim of providing a fun, creative, stimulating and supportive environment in which children and their caregivers can explore different aspects of music making through a range of shared activities. Live music is used in all classes and activities include singing, playing instruments, puppets and stories.

Classes will be held weekly on Wednesdays and start on 9th January, although you can join at any time.

Sessions are split into age groups: 2.5 - 4 years, 18 months - 2.5 years and 3 - 18 months. Call 07764 752675 or email lbmusic@gmx.co.uk now to book your free trial session, or for more information.

New Toddler Forest Group

Rydes Hill Launches All Year-Round Nursery

Starting this term St Nicholas’s School will be running fortnightly morning toddler forest group sessions in their 27 acre woodland. Come along with your wellingtons and coats for an adventure of storytime and play accompanied by hot chocolate and marshmallows for both children and adults. Please contact Katie on 01252 850121 (option 2) or e-mail registrar@ st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk to find out more information. www.st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk.

Rydes Hill Preparatory School & Nursery in Guildford are thrilled to announce that, from January 2019, the Nursery will be offering all year-round places and extended hours. As the Nursery is connected to the Prep School, the children enjoy a wealth of experiences tapping into specialist teachers for Forest School, music classes, dance and sport and an enviable timetable of arts and crafts, cooking, fine motor skills and guided learning.

New Locations for Molly Moocow!

Raising Confident Children with Perform

Molly Moocow run children’s music and movement classes for little ones from 6 months – 4 years, and has now been running successful classes and parties for the past 15 years throughout Surrey Sussex and Hampshire.

Molly classes aim to give children the opportunity to discover the important link between play, music and learning through their unique, fun-filled programmes. The company, was set up 15 years ago by a local Haslemere mum and 2 years ago taken over by Kate Renninson from Midhurst who has been working with Molly for the past 14 years. The company are very proud of their achievement, especially when faced with competition from so many national franchises.

There are new Molly Moocow classes starting in January 2019 at St Ives school in Haslemere, Midhurst and Godalming. Please do get in touch for your free taster session: www.mollymoocow. com, info@mollymoocow.com or 01428 658858.

4 Families Surrey West

Mrs Norville, the Headmistress commented, “We are thrilled to now offer families the option of a pre-school environment with the flexibility of all year-round care. We look to inspire imaginations and create capable learners to help prepare children for a positive and happy transition to the next step in their school life, wherever that may be”. Open 48 weeks of the year, the Rydes Hill Nursery accepts children from rising 3 and are eligible providers of the Early Years Funding Scheme.

Sara has two children, Honor (8) and James (6) who have both been attending Perform classes since they were 4 years old. “I’ve always wanted my children to feel confident speaking in public and chatting to all sorts of people. I think these are essential life skills these days” says Sara.

Sara was drawn to Perform because of its focus on developing confidence and self-esteem in a fun way.

“It’s not a pushy stage school” she explains. “Each week, the classes focus on a topic like manners, making eye contact or introducing themselves, but this is wrapped up in a highly engaging way in the context of drama and songs.”

“Since my children started attending Perform, other parents frequently remark on their confidence and how well they speak in school assemblies. I’m really impressed with how they chat to adults in places like shops and restaurants.” Classes at Perform are small with two teachers per class. “The teachers are professional actors with amazing energy and enthusiasm. They go out of their way to understand and engage every child” reports Sara. Perform offers a FREE no-obligation dance or drama class in: Farnham - Wednesday 4pm (for 4-7s) and 5pm (for 7-12s) Fleet - Monday 4pm and 5pm and Tuesday 4pm (for 4-7s) and Tuesday 5pm (for 7-12s) Frimley - Friday 4pm (for 4-7s) and 5pm (for 7-12s) Godalming - Friday 4pm (for 4-7s) and 5pm (for 7-12s) Guildford - Saturday 9.30am and 11.15am and Wednesday 4pm (for 4-7s) and Saturday 2pm and Wednesday 5pm (for 7-12s) Haslemere - Tuesday at 4pm (for 4-7s) and 5pm (for 7-12s) Woking - Saturday 9.30am and 11.15am and Wednesday 4pm (for 4-7s) and Saturday 2pm and Wednesday 5pm (for 7-12s).

Visit perform.org.uk/try to book. Plus, when you sign up for classes use code HERO010319 for £40 off! Expires 1st March 2019. Valid on all the above venues except Woking Saturday classes.

Save £40!

familiesonline.co.uk

News & Views Toad Hall Nursery Are Recruiting Toad Hall Nursery are recruiting for diverse, enthusiastic and experienced childcare practitioners to join their team. They believe that the quality of childcare and education provided lies deep within their investment in children, staff, parents and the wider community.

They’re continuing to review opportunities for growth whilst maintaining their high standards of exceptional childcare, yet retaining the individuality of each nursery, providing loving care which allows their children to flourish in a warm, secure environment.

They constantly strive to innovate and evaluate their performance through regular feedback, reviewing the needs of their children, families and staff.

To view their amazing benefits and what they have to offer, please see their advert on page 3 of this magazine. For more information please visit: www.toadhall-nursery.co.uk or email: recruitment@toadhall-nursery.co.uk. They would love to hear from you!

Does Your Child Need Help With Maths?

There is a way to super-charge your child’s Maths confidence. Jade from Rownhams, Southampton was worried about her daughter: “Lola was finding maths quite tough, both at school and at home. In turn, her confidence was non-existent, meaning she struggled to enjoy maths activities. Since using Maths Club by Post, there has been a genuine shift in Lola’s attitude towards learning Maths and her confidence is flourishing! She loves receiving her maths packs! She particularly loves the games, and the sense of achievement she gets once she has completed them.”

If, like Jade, you are worried about your child’s Maths, see if a FREE pack from Maths Club by Post can help your child flourish too. Go to: MathsClubByPost.co.uk

The Square New Soft Play

From the middle of January there will be a new reason to visit The Square Camberley. A new soft play will be installed to entertain the younger ones! And the best part? It is absolutely free!

Kumon Free Trial Kumon offer English and Maths programmes, which help children of any age and ability to become confident, independent learners with a positive attitude to study. Currently they are offering a two-week free trial from 21 February - 15 March! There are local study centres in Farnham, Frimley, Guildford East, Guildford North and Haslemere.

Rather than offering conventional maths and English tuition, their Instructors set themselves apart by guiding their students through work that is set at just the right level for them, keeping them engaged and making progress. They support and encourage students to work out answers by themselves, helping them to become self-sufficient, successful learners for the future. By studying little and often through daily worksheets and twice weekly study centre visits, their students steadily increase ability and fluency, building their skills in small, manageable steps.

NOW IN GUILDFORD! We offer lessons for EVERYONE BABIES from 4-24 months STROKE Correction & Training LEARN 2 SWIM 2yrs+ ADULT Swimming Lessons Private indoor pool 6 Days per week, 9am-8pm Private or Group Lessons SWIMMING SCHOOL

WWW.RUBBADUCKIES.COM

maurice@rubbaduckies.com

07956 162154

To book your child’s free two week trial visit www. kumon.co.uk, call your local centre or call 0800 854714.

East Horsley Village Hall Thursday and Saturdays

BOOK A 2 WEEK TASTER TODAY!

Childcare vouchers accepted - join online today!

familiesonline.co.uk

Summer Rose Performing Arts Offering classes in:

• ISTD Ballet • ISTD Tap • ISTD Modern • Street Free • Musical Theatre trial • Cheerleading & more...

Summer Dyason 07920 101282 lesson www.summerroseperformingarts.co.uk summer@summerroseperformingarts.co.uk

Families Surrey West 5

Parenting

Raising a Compassionate Child

C

Model How to Value Feelings

hildren have an inborn capacity for compassion. Small in stature themselves, they naturally identify with stuffed animals, other children, pets, and underdogs. However, this natural empathy must compete with other developmental forces including limited impulse control and their belief that their needs must absolutely come first – always!

By Miriam Rowland

Whenever possible, model warmth and empathy towards others when you are with your children. Children are watching you to learn appropriate ways of behaving and interacting, and are known to be influenced by the behaviours they see around them. You can be a good role model by acknowledging and valuing others’ feelings, and showing understanding and sympathy when someone is sad, upset, distressed, frustrated or in need of help.

With so much hatred and turmoil in the world, not to mention the extraordinary child-centredness of our society, it seems more important than ever to raise children who can understand and be kind to other people.

Connect Feelings, Thoughts and Behaviours

Teaching kindness doesn’t mean lectures or visits to food banks. It can be part of everyday life and you can model it in how you answer your child’s questions, how you help your child solve conflict in the playground and how you nurture their growing capacity to understand and think about other people.

When talking about feelings, use words to explain how certain behaviours connect with these feelings so children can understand cause and effect. This can be done through stories, play-acting or reading books. Talk to children about the thoughts, feelings and behaviours of the characters. What might the characters do next?

Of course, temperament plays a role – some children are naturally more tuned into other people’s feelings and difficulties whilst others are a bit oblivious. Either way, you have the influence and the ability to foster your child’s ability to empathise.

Connect these scenarios with your child’s own experiences. For example, if a character is sad because she misses her parents, connect that feeling to a time the child also expressed sadness about something similar. This helps your child more clearly understand the connection between feelings, thoughts and behaviours.

Take it in small doses and don’t expect too much from them at first. It’ll be a slow and gradual journey for your child to understand that other people have feelings, and that their feelings count.

Teach Children about Emotions Children can’t empathise with what others are feeling if they don’t know how to use words to describe their own emotions. As your child goes through his day, make sure to point out which emotions you see him feel, and also which ones you’re feeling too.

After Conflicts, Discuss what Everyone was Feeling Don’t try to discuss feelings while your child is hitting his sibling. Once

you’ve separated the two of them and they have calmed down, it is great to go back and talk about what each child was feeling. Younger children can be helped to figure out what they may have been thinking or feeling at the time. At the same time, you can help them figure out how to express their feelings in a more constructive way.

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Let Them See YOU Resolve Conflicts in your Life Almost everyone argues in front of their children sometimes, even though ideally you should limit this. If you cannot keep your tone and your words under control, try not to engage with your partner on sensitive subjects when your children are around. However, when arguments do happen, the key is to prevent them impacting your children: if you fight in front of them, make up in front of them too. A good rule of thumb is: if children never see conflict resolution in a relationship, they will be unlikely to be able to resolve conflicts in their own later relationships. Make sure to take the other party’s perspective into account when resolving your difficulties.

Speak for Those who Cannot Speak for Themselves Children frequently exhibit empathy toward babies, who naturally elicit empathy as part of an evolutionary adaptation to ensure that they get taken care of by older humans. To make the most of this phenomenon, make sure to discuss and wonder aloud with your child about what babies (and pets) may be feeling.

Model Respect for Those who Seem Different Children are naturally fascinated by those who are different. If a child is curious about someone with a disability, don’t just shush them. Make friends with the person and allow your child to see that this person is more similar to him than different. Often, the person will explain his disability to your child, if your child is prompted to ask respectful questions.

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teachers’ enthusiasm, and the methodology that has been developed and implemented. Of course, the environment and water quality/ temperature also play an enormous factor in students’ progress.

A New Concept of Swimming Education

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wimWay is the leading home visit Swimming School in London. Since 2005, the company has developed a reputation for providing high quality swimming lessons for parents & babies, children and adults.

Locations include exclusive private developments, homes, schools and gyms around London, as well as 11 sites open to general public.

“

buoyancy, body position, gliding and correct leg kick action before introducing the full stroke. Students that are given the correct core elements will thrive, and become good swimmers.

The majority of SwimWay swimming lessons are provided as one-to-one, or as semi-private classes. This allows the instructor to create a specific lesson plan for each student.

Because SwimWay specialises in private or semiprivate lessons, the children receive full, direct support inside the water from their teacher.

This allows them to use only a kickboard as a floatation device without sacrificing any safety measures. This is in contrast to traditional methods of teaching which usually use backpacks, shark wings and noodles.

A good programme will work on fundamentals such as breath control,

The most important aspects of the classes are the lesson quality,

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The swimming programme that SwimWay has created enables all the students to develop and practice key techniques and skills, progressing as stroke and skill competency is achieved. The technology used for booking and assessments allows the instructors to continually assess all students to ensure they are progressing through the programme. This system also allows clients to register and view this progression from home.

The SwimWay team has a huge base of knowledge and experience of which they are incredibly proud. All instructors undergo constant training and development, ensuring they are the best they can be when it comes to health and safety, and teaching techniques. This enables SwimWay to provide you with fantastic swimming lessons that are also safe, and lots of fun!

SwimWay have a number of swimming pools located in London and they will be launching classes in a beautiful private pool in Cranleigh in April.

For further information please email info@swimway.co.uk, telephone the SwimWay offices on 0208 871 3972 or visit their website at www.swimway.co.uk.

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Families Surrey West 7

The Early Years

Play or Structured Learning in the Early Years?

I

By Maxine Henderson

n England, the current Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum stipulates a 50/50 balance between child-centred, play-based learning and adult-led learning.

Over the years there have been individuals who question the system and look to introduce new ideas. For example Liz Truss, a past Education and Childcare Minister, championed the introduction of a French-style ‘structured learning’ approach, with a graduate-led workforce responsible for larger groups of children, and a reduced child-to-carer ratio. Whilst the benefits of a more highly qualified workforce are indisputable, there are other considerations. If teachers are responsible for larger groups then opportunities for vital play-based learning are reduced.

Some children were making signs to indicate who lived where; others were adding connecting tunnels and others still were creating places for everyone to sit and a welcoming atmosphere.

It wasn’t all smooth sailing. The children often disagreed about how to construct the dwellings and tempers flared when some children “borrowed” things from one den to improve their own, but the whole process was fascinating to observe. Our carers were on hand to support the children – making sure they were safe and allowing them to negotiate between themselves. When necessary, they offered suggestions to help the children make decisions, but they provided choices rather than answers.

They also asked open questions throughout the process such as:

Whilst the ‘structured learning’ model is hailed for its effectiveness in socialising children, teaching them manners, and creating a calm, organised atmosphere, it is not an environment in which young children learn best. And it definitely doesn’t encourage them to be inquisitive, selfmotivated learners.

How many pegs have you used? How is this staying up? What does your sign say?

Children need to practise negotiating with each other and experience problem solving situations, without the direct supervision of an adult. If they are unable to practise these skills in free play, they become too reliant on adults to both intervene for them in social situations and to motivate and inspire them to learn.

A great example of the benefits of play-based learning happened in one of our nursery settings recently. I observed the children carrying large construction blocks, lengths of fabric, pegs and sticky tape out of the building and realised they were busy working together to construct a range of interestingly shaped homes in the garden, entirely from their own imaginations.

8 Families Surrey West

The learning that took place that afternoon was incredible – the children were self-motivated, interested in the task and invested in a positive outcome. In adult-led learning, we often meet resistance, as a child does not want to complete the task in the way that we expect.

However, this leads to other teaching opportunities and is equally as important as play-based learning.

The two work well in tandem, giving the children opportunities to develop core skills, find their own strengths and become well-rounded individuals. Currently observations are made about a child’s development while they play, helping carers plan structured learning activities relevant to that child’s development.

These observations include the individual interests, abilities and levels of assistance required by each child.

This makes it possible to organise

interesting, achievable but challenging adult-led activities for each child, taking account of their preferred learning style and developmental level.

During the den-building activity, carers were able to identify which children:

• confidently led the action • preferred to watch • were interested in creating the tents and dens

• disappeared when all the building and mending was done

• wanted to play in the dens when

they were completed, delegating characters to each other and adding furniture to create narratives for their games.

A mixture of adult-led and playbased learning is important for the development of every child.

The individual child needs to learn structure and rules, and participate as part of group but they also need time to explore their own interests, likes and dislikes and see where they fit into the whole.

When considering the introduction of new ways of learning for children, it’s important to consider the impact this can have on the individual development of a child, as well as the changes that will need to be made to group learning. For example, increasing the number of children each worker has in their care makes it more difficult for detailed observations to be made about each child and to organise adult-led activities which are appropriate for both the development of individual children and the group.

Inevitably, this forces settings to move to a classroom-style environment in which, sadly, children lose vital free-play learning and development opportunities.

Maxine Henderson is a Childcare Expert at Tinies Childcare, a leading childcare specialist with over 30 years’ experience helping families, nurseries and other childcare settings find the right childcare professionals to suit their needs. For more information, visit www.tinies.com

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Now taking registrations For children aged 6 weeks to 5 years

Fu n is a n essential ingredient at Pennypot Day Nursery and Preschool where the care and education opportunities for each and every child are as extraordinary as the staff who provide them.

We would be delighted to show you around “This nursery has been fantastic for my child who absolutely loves being there. They do interesting activities with the children. The staff are lovely and caring and the children have fun. It’s also kept beautifully, serves good food and has a great outdoor space. I’d highly recommend that people see for themselves, it’s exceptional.”

Parent, www.daynurseries.co.uk

Please call 01276 855886 or email pennypot.nursery@childbase.com Pennypot Day Nursery and Preschool, Pennypot Lane, Chobham GU24 8DH

Open 7.30am to 6.30pm www.childbasepartnership.com

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OPEN MORNINGS

OPEN MORNINGS

23rd January (Early Years) OPEN MORNINGS 12th February

OPEN MORNING

23rd January (Early Years) 12th February 8th May

23rd January (Early Years) 8th May 12th February 9.30-12.00 8th May

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To attend please telephone or email emailadmissions@longacreschool.co.uk admissions@longacreschool.co.uk To attend please telephone01483 01483893225 893225 or Hullbrook Green,Surrey SurreyGU5 GU5 0NQ HullbrookLane, Lane,Shamley Shamley Green, 0NQ

www.longacreschool.co.uk www.longacreschool.co.uk

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J O R A PA R A M

UR

To reserve a place at an open longacreschool morning or book an individual @longacreschool tour, please call Pauline on 01428 681032 or email Roke Lane, Witley, To registrar@barrowhills.org attend please telephone 01483 893225 or email admissions@longacreschool.co.uk Hullbrook Lane, Shamley Green, Surrey GU5 0NQ Surrey

GU8 5NY www.longacreschool.co.uk www.barrowhills.org

A prep school for girls and boys aged 2-13

2

Families Surrey West 9

The Early Years

Local Nurseries Listing

Guildford Nursery School

Guildford Nursery School provides safe, secure, inspiring and creative learning environments which offer exciting and challenging opportunities for children aged 2-5, including wonderful outdoor areas for children to freely explore. They offer 15 and 30 hours free quality education and care plus fee-paying sessions, led by qualified teachers and experienced nursery staff. They also have breakfast and after school clubs and holiday club with forest school sessions for 2-8 year olds. Hazel Avenue site has extensive gardens and on-site Café Fabulous.

York Road site in central Guildford is ideal for those working in town or using transport links.

Child’s Play Pre-School

A warm, caring and friendly Pre-school based in the United Reformed Church Hall in Central Guildford. Open 8.30am to 2.45pm; children can attend Mornings, Afternoons, or full days. Light, bright and spacious hall; outdoor area and weekly Forest School sessions. Children accepted from two years old until school age. All funding accepted - 15 hours, FEET, Childcare Vouchers, and 30 hours free childcare available. Contact info@childsplaypreschool. co.uk or 07941 346953 or visit www.childsplaypreschool.co.uk and complete the “Register Interest” form.

Bisley Pre-School

Come and join a high quality, safe, stimulating and fun pre-school in a warm and caring environment where children can learn and develop as they play. Bisley Pre-School offers sessions for 2½ to five-year-olds, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 09.4514.15 and Wednesday 09.15-12.15, in Bisley Village Hall, GU24 9EG. Call 07855194070, email bisleypreschoolregistrar@gmail.com or visit www.bisleypreschool.org.uk.“The well-qualified staff team creates a warm, nurturing and inviting environment…” Ofsted 2017 – Good report.

Tigglets Montessori Nursery School

* Holistic Approach to Learning * Child Centred Environment * French and Yoga Sessions * Kodaly based Music sessions * Montessori Accreditation * Term-time Sessional Montessori Pre-school for Children from 2 1/2 - 5 years. * Graded as “Outstanding” by OFSTED * High staff/child ratio

In a rural setting on the outskirts of Crondall Village near Farnham

For further information please contact: Candy Head on 01252 678177 or visit www.tiggletsmontessori.co.uk

10 Families Surrey West

Toad Hall Nursery Group

Toad Hall Nursery Group is a family chain of 12 nurseries throughout the South East England, providing a welcoming, safe and nurturing environment for children to learn and play. They offer childcare and early education for children from 3 months to school age. The standard of their child care and early years’ education has earned them an Ofsted grade Good. They invite you to visit them and find out about the all-inclusive services they offer and why they are the ideal choice for your child. Take a look at their website to find the nearest Toad Hall Nursery to you: https://www.toadhall-nursery.co.uk/our-nurseries.

Pennypot Day Nursery, Chobham

Pennypot Day Nursery offers care for children aged six weeks to five years, the spacious nursery offers ‘innovative learning through play’ programmes in imaginative, age-appropriate rooms which all have ‘freeflow’ access to a large garden with all-year-round secure and separate play and learning areas. Individuality is respected and celebrated by highly trained and experienced staff dedicated to achieving the best outcomes for each and every child at this warm and friendly nursery. Part of the award-winning, employee-owned company the Childbase Partnership which has 43 day nurseries in the South of England and was one of only 160 UK organisations rated ‘Extraordinary’

by Best Companies in 2017.

Tigglets Montessori

Tigglets Montessori is a termtime sessional pre-school for children aged 2 1/2 - 5 years.

Situated in Crondall village near Farnham, it is rated Outstanding by Ofsted. There is a high staff/child ratio with a combination of Montessori and QTS qualified staff. They recognise the importance of independent learning in a child’s early formative years and encourage all children to explore and develop into self motivated learners, in a safe, secure and stimulating environment. Please see www.tiggletsmontessori.co.uk for more details.

Looking for a Pre-School in Guildford?

Come and see what we have to offer.

. Open 8.30am - 2.45pm .Places available now

.Warm and caring atmosphere .Parking .Forest school sessions .All funding accepted

.15 and 30 hours free childcare places To make an appointment please email info@childsplaypreschool.co.uk or call 07510 254313 / 01483 565343

www.childsplaypreschool.co.uk

Guildford United Reformed Church, 83 Portsmouth Rd, Guildford GU2 4BS

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The Early Years • Choose a nursery that offers taster

sessions so that your child has the chance to build up to spending extended periods of time there. Don’t hurry these visits - investing time at this stage will certainly pay dividends in the long run.

• Many nurseries have a uniform and it

Avoiding The Nursery Blues

E

very parent is anxious to ensure that their child makes a smooth transition into nursery. We spoke to Cordelia Hampton-John, Nursery Lead Practitioner at Barrow Hills Nursery to glean some useful advice to help parents prepare their children for this important milestone.

• Don’t fret too much! A worried

parent will almost certainly pass on their anxieties to their child precisely at the time that the child needs to feel safe and secure. Be prepared for the maelstrom of emotions that may be stirred up as you realise that your precious bundle is about to experience their first taste of independence. Ensure that

you only talk about nursery life in a positive and upbeat manner and make every effort to manage your own apprehension. Make it clear to your child that when they come home, they will have the chance to spend some quality time with mummy and daddy and that this change represents an exciting time for you all!

• If your child has not previously

attended a playgroup on a regular basis, provide opportunities for them to become accustomed to interacting with other children. Set regular group play dates or attend a club so that they get used to being around people outside their immediate family.

can be really helpful for young children, encouraging them to understand that by wearing the same clothes, they are all in the same situation – and of course they are all equal. Uniform can also encourage a sense of feeling part of a group and this can be very comforting to a child. On the flip side some children may have already got into the habit of ‘choosing’ their own outfits on a daily basis so prepare them for what lies ahead!

• Address your own schedule and make

sure that you are going to be able to manage to collect your child at the allocated time without persistently being late. This can easily stress a child leading to a potential resistance to attending nursery.

• Acknowledge that the traditional laid-

back morning routine is about to get a lot more regimented. Getting ready on time and leaving the house promptly may take some practice so it can be useful to have a few trial runs ahead of the BIG day!

Barrow Hills’ next open morning is 8th February. www.barrowhills.org/Bookan-Open-Morning

for children aged 2-5 years old www.guildfordnscc.surrey.sch.uk Safe, secure, inspiring and creative learning environments that offer exciting and challenging opportunities Wonderful outdoor areas for children to freely explore 15 and 30 hours of free quality education and care, led by qualified teachers and experienced nursery staff Fee-paying nursery sessions Breakfast and after school clubs

In addition each nursery has its own unique qualities: Hazel Avenue York Road Extensive gardens including a forest school area

Refurbished areas which have transformed the building

Holiday clubs and forest school sessions for 2-8 year olds

A lovely garden which is a quiet oasis in the middle of town

On-site Café Fabulous serving delicious homemade food

Central Guildford ideal for those working in town or using transport links

Contact us:

Contact us:

Hazel Avenue, Guildford, GU1 1NR. Tel: 01483 566589 Email: admin@guildfordnscc.surrey.sch.uk

York Road, Guildford, GU1 4DU. Tel: 01483 561652 Email: info@guildfordnscc.surrey.sch.uk

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Families Surrey West 11

The Early Years

Nurseries At Independent Schools

St Nicholas’ School

Learning is easier if it’s fun! At St Nicholas’ School they make sure that this first step is a happy and positive experience. Light airy rooms, bright modern equipment and friendly, experienced staff ensure children are introduced to a world of friends and opportunities, encouraging confidence and respect for others. Forest School and Yo-Chi are some of the many activities they have to offer. 15 hours Early Years Education Funding available. To find out more please contact them on 01252 850121 or registrar@st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk

Hoe Bridge School

A Leading IAPS Co-educational Nursery, Pre-Preparatory & Preparatory School. Sitting in 22 acres on the outskirts of Woking, Hoe Bridge is a family style co-ed school with an extremely good reputation and in the last inspection received a grade of ‘excellent’. The PrePrep is a stunning development creating space and light for the youngest children with the Nursery operating five full days.

Standards and targets are realistic, the bright are challenged and the less able supported. There is never a dull moment or time to be bored and the children are proud to call Hoe Bridge their school.

St. Andrew’s School

St. Andrew’s School, Woking, situated in Horsell, is a thriving co-educational independent day school for children aged 3 - 13 years. The Nursery is is a happy, vibrant place where children feel secure and gain independence. They promote enquiring minds and equip children with the skills, knowledge and positive attitudes that are key to future success. Children are introduced to phonics and numeracy in fun and lively ways as they are prepared for transition into Reception. For more information, please visit www.st-andrews.woking.sch.uk.

The Ark at Ripley Court School

Set in 19 acres and part of a thriving prep school, The Ark Nursery offers both indoor and outdoor learning environments, including Forest School. Their multi-sensory approach encourages children to become independent learners, underpinned by a balance of adult led experiences that builds on children’s own interests, promoting a positive attitude to learning and all-round development.

The children have the freedom and space to develop at a pace that is right for them.

Rydes Hill Preparatory School & Nursery

Rydes Hill Preparatory School & Nursery provides a wonderland of opportunities to ignite children’s natural curiosity within a secure, fun and stimulating environment, tapping into specialist teachers for an array of activities such as Forest School, sport, music & movement and arts & craft. From January 2019 the Nursery is thrilled to announce they are offering all year-round places for 48 weeks of the year to provide an outstanding pre-school environment with the benefit of flexibility.

12 Families Surrey West

St Hilary’s School

St Hilary’s School offers its pupils an outstanding allround education with small class sizes and well-qualified, specialist staff who provide excellent pastoral care. The well-resourced Early Years room for children to play, learn and explore in also has a large outdoor area complete with its own castle and slide! According to the Independent School Inspectorate “The overall quality and standards of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) are outstanding.” Please visit www.sthilarysschool.com for more information.

Highfield & Brookham Schools

Nestled in stunning grounds and woodlands, Brookham nursery in Liphook provides children with a magical beginning to their learning journey. Qualified specialist teachers guide young learners to reach their full potential and provide weekly PE, swimming, Spanish, music, ballet and forest school lessons. From fine motor skills to phonics, from numeracy to problem solving, teachers at Brookham cherish the opportunity to captivate curious minds and develop the courage and self-belief that ensures every child at Brookham flourishes. Please see www.highfieldandbrookham.co.uk for more details.

Developing Global Thinkers at ISL Surrey

Longacre School

ISL Surrey is home to an Ofsted “Outstanding” Early Years setting for 2-5 year olds in Woking. The bright and spacious indoor-outdoor environment is purposefully designed to support optimum early development. All children have regular opportunities to enjoy woodland adventures in dedicated, on-site forest spaces and to participate in environmental projects in the large, edible garden. Their exceptional staff ratio allows them to challenge individuals within the happy and nurturing setting, enabling children to grow in confidence and develop their learning through play experiences that are meaningful to them. www.islsurrey.org email: admissions@islsurrey.org.

Longacre School

Longacre School in Shamley Green, Surrey is an Independent Preparatory School for girls and boys aged 2 ½ to 11. The Nursery and Kindergarten pupils are part of the whole school; they wear the same uniform and are a member of one of the four school Houses. They have access to the very best quality teaching staff for physical development and creative learning and make use of the top quality facilities and 9½ acres of woodland.

Barrow Hills Nursery

Barrow Hills Nursery is open to children from their second birthday. Experienced staff help your child take their first steps on the road to independence, encouraging new skills by engaging in a range of activities including play-led learning as the children move through Kindy and onto Reception. The caring and nurturing environment is part of the Early Years Foundation Stage at Barrow Hills, providing access to a seamless education up to age 13. Come and visit them at their next Open Morning on 8th February http://www.barrowhills.org/Book-an-Open-Morning.

familiesonline.co.uk

How to choose your Nanny

The Early Years

By Elaine Hunn of Hattie’s Nannies

What is a Nanny?

• A nanny is usually a qualified

and/or experienced professional with expertise in the care and management of children, their routine, all round development, psychology, nutrition and first aid.

• A nanny is at least 18 years old and will usually have a minimum of two years training and or experience.

She should usually be able to take sole charge of the children on a regular basis (depending on experience).

• A nanny is usually expected to do

“nursery duties” in addition to care of the children. Nursery duties usually include children’s laundry, tidying their rooms, preparation of food for the children, plus other duties agreed between the family and their nanny.

Please note that it is not a mandatory requirement for Nannies to register with Ofsted, or to have an enhanced DBS (Disclosure). Most reputable Nanny agencies require an up to date enhanced DBS for all of their registered candidates.

Why use a Reputable local Nanny agency?

• They should have a good knowledge of the local Nanny network, and have many pre-screened candidates. Perhaps ask how long they have been established for?

• They should work closely with

you in discussing your specific requirements and identifying the right Nanny for you and your family.

• They should guide you through the

whole recruitment process including everything from the recruitment of the right Nanny, to such details as the tax and NI responsibilities that you have as an employer.

• They should have a thorough

screening process and complete this for all Nanny candidates before they are proposed to you as a family.

Check that your agency meets all candidates in person, and that candidates have a DBS Enhanced disclosure and reference checks on file before they are proposed to you. We would strongly advise that you check this with your

agency, before deciding to work with them – whether they are an internet or “bricks and mortar” business, as checks and standards differ from company to company.

Established for over 14 years Hattie’s Nannies is an experienced recruitment agency located between Guildford and Godalming, supplying Nannies, Maternity Nannies and Night Nannies to families in Surrey. Their rigorous screening process managed in person by their Director, ensures a high calibre of nanny candidates. Hattie’s Nannies pays particular attention to matching “the right nanny with the right family” by working closely with both clients and nannies. For permanent or temporary nannies, fulltime or part-time, call 01483 415406 or visit www.hattiesnannies.co.uk.

Hiring an Au Pair Nicky Elgy runs Larah Au Pairs and here she explains how an au pair can help with your family’s childcare.

The Au-Pair will work approximately 5 hours daily; a maximum of 25 hours per week with up to 2 evenings babysitting and should be entitled to 2 Saturday nights free per month. Au Pair plus and Mother’s helps work more than 25 hours.

housework (washingup, ironing, dusting etc.), general childcare (preparing meals for the children, collection from school, dressing, supervision when required etc.) and domestic pet care. An exact description of the Au-Pair duties should be arranged at the start of the placement to avoid confusion later, preferably a rota to show exact free time and when they should be working.

A position with the family will include free board and room which the Au-Pair is expected to keep tidy. Other facilities (TV, bathroom etc.) should be made available and the Au-Pair should be treated as part of the family.

Exact days and time off should be arranged with the au pair.

A period of 2 weeks paid holiday plus bank holidays should be given for every 6 months completed. Good communication is important as this will solve any problems at an early stage and promote good English skills. Typical duties will include

For over 20 years Larah Au Pairs has been providing Au-pairs, Mothers’ Helps and Companions for the elderly in and around Surrey. All applicants undergo LAP police and reference checks.

Please contact Nicky for further information. 01932 341704 Email : larahaupairs@ntlworld.com.

An Au-Pair placement is a single male/female aged between 17-27 who wishes to come to the UK to study English. They will live as part of an English speaking family and can stay for up to 2 years unless from a country within the EEC. There are 3 positions: Au Pair = 25 hours from £90-£100 per week, Au Pair plus up to 30 hours = from £110 per week, and Mothers Help from 40 hours from £150 per week, drivers get more, and some families agree to contribute towards the cost of the language school.

Could a childminder be right for your family?

Childminders provide childcare in their own homes. They look after several children together, probably of different ages and from different families. Siblings can also be looked after together. Childminders have to be Ofsted registered. This means they are inspected to ensure that the care and learning they provide meets the Early Years Foundation Stage, they and their homes are safe and suitable and that they and all adults in their house have been checked by the DBS. As well as engaging in activities in their homes such as cooking and playing, they would take children on trips for example to the park or library. Childminders offer flexible childcare, suited to your requirements - this could include late nights, after school care or weekends. Your local council website will have a list of registered childminders.

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Families Surrey West 13

Schools & Education Please contact the schools to find out if you need to register as many schools require you to book a place at their open day

Independent School Open Days

School

Open Day Date

Aldro School. Boys 7-13 years.

Sat 9 March 10am-12pm.

Amesbury School. Mixed 2-13 yrs.

Fri 8 Feb 10am-12pm.

Barfield School. Mixed 2-13 yrs.

Fri 17 May.

Barrow Hills School, Witley 01428 683639 Mixed 2-13.

Fri 8 Feb 9.30am.

Belmont Preparatory School Mixed 2-13 years.

Fri 8 Feb 10am.

Coworth Flexlands School Boys 3-7 yrs, girls 3-11 years.

Thurs 24 Jan Wed 13 Feb.

Cranleigh Prep School. Mixed 7-13.

Wed 27 Feb.

Cranmore School. Mixed 2 ½-13.

Sat 2 March.

Duke of Kent School. Mixed 3-16.

Fri 1 March 9.30am-12pm.

Edgeborough, Frensham 01252 792495 Mixed 2-13 years.

Fri 8 March.

Frensham Heights. Mixed 3-18 yrs.

Thurs 21 March.

Glenesk School, E Horsley 01483 282329 Mixed 2-7 years.

Fri 1 March 9.15am.

Greenfield School. Mixed 3-11 yrs.

Please contact the school.

Guildford High School. Girls 4-18.

Jnr: Wed 30 Jan, Thurs 28 Feb.

Halstead Prep School. Girls 3-11.

Fri 15 March 9-10.30am.

Highfield and Brookham School, Liphook 01428 728000 admissions@brookhamschool. co.uk Mixed 3-13 years.

Highfield: Sat 9 Feb 10am12pm. Brookham Pre-prep & Nursery please call for a bespoke visit.

Hoe Bridge School, Woking 01483 227909 Mixed 3-13.

Tues 5 March.

ISL Surrey Primary School Woking 01483 750409 admissions@islsurrey.org

Thurs 7 Feb. Booking essential.

Mixed 2-11 years.

Lanesborough School. Boys 3-13.

Please contact the school.

Longacre School, Shamley Green 01483 893225 Mixed 2 ½-11.

Wed 23 Jan (Early Years) Tues 12 Feb 9.30am-12pm.

Lyndhurst School. Mixed 3-11.

Please contact the school.

Manor House School. Girls 2-16.

Wed 6 Feb 9.30am.

Moon Hall School Specialist school for dyslexic children.

Please contact the school.

Ripley Court, Ripley 01483 225217 Mixed 3-13 years.

Nursery - Year 3: Fri 8 March, Fri 26 April 9am-11am.

The Royal School Mixed 6 wks-18 years.

Junior School: Fri 15 March 9.30am.

Rydes Hill Preparatory & Nursery Guildford 01483 563160 Girls 3-11 years, Boys 3-7 years.

Sat 16 March 2.30–4.30pm.

Please book a place as there is a themed ‘bear hunt’ afternoon!

St Andrews School, Horsell 01483 760943 Mixed 3-13 years.

Fri 15 March 9am – 11am Fri 10 May 9am – 11am.

St Catherine’s School, Bramley 01483 899665 Girls 4-18 years.

Prep school: Fri 1 Feb, Tues 5 Feb 9.45am.

St Edmund’s School, Hindhead 01428 609875 Mixed 2-16 years.

Please contact the school.

St Hilary’s School, Godalming 01483 416551 Boys 2-7 years, Girls 2-11 years (fully coeducational by Sept 2022)

Fri 1 March 10.30am-12pm Fri 3 May 10.30am-12pm.

St Ives School Girls 2-11 yrs, boys 2-7 yrs.

Fri 18 Jan, Fri 1 Feb.

St Nicholas’ School, Fleet 01252 850121 Boys 3-7 years, Girls 3-16 years

Sat 2 March 10am-1pm.

St Teresa’s Effingham. Girls 2-18.

Fri 3 May.

Tormead School. Girls 4-18 yrs.

Junior School: Mon 11 March.

14 Families Surrey West

Wonderful Pre-school Nursery For Children Rising 3

ALL YEAR ROUND NURSERY NOW TAKING REGISTRATIONS Outstanding pre-school environment tapping into specailist teachers for forest school, music, PE and dance along with a rich and varied set of daily activities including arts & crafts, cooking, fine motor skills and guided learning.

www.rydeshill.com

BOOK A PERSONAL TOUR ON 01483 563 160

familiesonline.co.uk

St Hilary’s

Preparatory School Godalming

Also welcoming boys in Year 3 from Sept 2019 in a phased plan to be fully co-educational by Sept 2022

“A thriving, buzzy place with a warm and happy atmosphere and very impressive academic achievements for a non-selective school” The Good Schools Guide

Tel: 01483 416551 • @StHilarysSchool • Email: registrar@sthilarysschool.com

www.sthilarysschool.com

St Nicholas’ School F L E E T

•

H A M P S H I R E

An independent day school for boys aged 3-7 and girls aged 3-16

Senior Entrance Exams Fri 11th Jan 2019

Open Morning Sat 2nd March 2019 10am – 1pm

S ar Sp ark rking n tthhe ng he

IMAG A INAT AG A ION AT

familiesonline.co.uk

@stnicholasschool @stnicholasfleet st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk 01252 850121 registrar@st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk

Families Surrey West 15

Schools & Education

New Year Reading Resolutions

S

By Liz Walker from Readingchest.co.uk

tart the New Year with good reading habits to get children ‘reading fit.’ Helping your children learn to read is the most important activity you can do to help with their education. Follow Reading Chest’s New Year’s reading resolutions to get on the right track:

Nursery & Pre-Prep 3-8 Years | Prep School – Day & Boarding 8-13 Years

1. Read to your children as often as possible. Children will see that reading is enjoyable and exciting, rather than just another piece of homework to be ticked off. Reading to children opens up a world of books that they might not choose to read themselves and really helps to maintain struggling readers’ interest in books.

SaVE £5!

2. List to your children read every day. Just ten minutes a day will make a huge difference. Establish a good reading routine and let your children read good quality, inspiring books. They will lose interest with books that are too challenging and will not make progress if books are too easy.

3. Play more board games. Most families play lots of board

games over Christmas, which then sit gathering dust after the holidays and busy working lives take over.

4. Make time for reading yourself - and let your children see you. Research shows that the impact of parents reading, has a huge positive impact on children’s reading. If children never see their parents reading, they are much less likely to pick up a book themselves. Boys are more likely to pick up a book if they see dads reading.

Highfield Open Morning Saturday 9th February, 10am—12 noon Brookham Pre-Prep & Nursery Bespoke visits, please call to arrange

For more reading advice and easy access to a wide range of books suited to your child’s ability, visit www.readingchest.co.uk, the book rental service for children learning to read.

Families Surrey West readers can join Reading Chest with £5 off their first month’s membership using the discount code FAM18.

For more information please visit our website or call 01428 728000 | www.highfieldandbrookham.co.uk Liphook, Hampshire GU30 7LQ

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‘ Excellent ’ Latest ISI Inspection

A positive attitude towards learning that lasts a lifetime.

Church Hill House, Horsell, Woking, Surrey GU21 4QW Telephone: 01483 760943 www.st-andrews.woking.sch.uk Reg. Charity No. 297580 ~ Established to promote and provide for the advancement of education

‘Excellent’ in all areas - ISI Inspection 2016 INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL FOR GIRLS & BOYS AGED 3-13

~ Developing potential for life ~

16 Families Surrey West

Open Mornings 5 March & 1 October 2019 A happy, caring environment for girls & boys in Woking aged 3 - 13 & just 25 minutes from London hoebridgeschool.co.uk admissions@hoebridgeschool.co.uk 01483 227909

familiesonline.co.uk

Trial Free Session Trial Hands on music making classes for children Free Free aged 3 months – What’s 4 years On Session Trial Trial Classes include singing, playing instruments, Session puppets and stories Session Hands on music making classes forFree children

Please double check event with organiser to avoid disappointment.

Friday 11 January

Sat 19 January

Terrific Toys Haslemere Educational Museum

Learn to Sew Together – First Steps Farnham Maltings

Have a look at toys from the past and play with replicas of Victorian toys. Listen to a story and make your own simple toy.

For under 5s with an adult.

10.30am-11.30am. No need to book. Adult £1, child £2.

On Sat 19 & 26 Jan - £50 for both sessions. 10.30am – 1pm. For ages 7–11 with an adult. You and your child can learn together and create an applique cushion cover. Please bring your own sewing machine or reserve one at booking.

♪ Hands on music making classes for children aged 3 – 4 years ♪ ♪ months Hands on music making classes for children aged 3 months –include 4music years ♪ Classeson singing, playing instruments, puppet ♪ Hands making classes for children aged 3 ♪ Hands on music making classes for children aged 3 stories months – 4 years ♪ ♪ and Classes –include singing, playing instruments, puppet months 4 years Leadstories by include a professional with puppet over 1 ♪♪ and Classes singing, Music playingTherapist instruments, Classes include singing, playing instruments, puppet years’ experience working with young children stories ♪ and Leadstories by a professional Music Therapist and Georgia’s Party Costumewith Hire over 1 experience working withTherapist young children ♪ Lead by a professional Music with over 1 Weekly classes starting ♪ years’ Lead by a professional Music Therapist with over 1 years’ experience working with young children Wednesday 9 January 2019

78 High St, Haslemere GU27 2LA

Sat 12 January Cranleigh Arts Centre

1 High St, Cranleigh GU6 8AS

Community Drum Circle 2pm. A fun, noisy,

family friendly event open to everyone, no musical experience is necessary, and all drums and percussion are provided. £5, £15 family ticket (2A+2C). Please pre-book.

Printmaking Workshop

2-3pm. Make your own styrofoam printing blocks and use them to create some handprinted designs. For ages 5+. £5. Please pre-book.

Wild Families Newlands Corner Shere Rd, Guildford

10.30am12.30pm.

A fun session for the whole family!

Bring out your family’s wild side.

Games, crafts and activities to engage with nature, fun Wild Families for all the family. Booking essential: surreywildlifetrust.org/families £5 pp (babes in arms free).

Sunday 13 January Merrist Wood Animal Encounter Tour Merrist Wood College

Bridge Sq, Farnham GU9 7QR

Sunday 20 January

Merrist Wood Animal Encounter Tour

Please see details on 13 Jan.

Tuesday 22 January

Mozart and Muffins The Guildhall

Guildford Live classical music

for pre-schoolers, babies and toddlers with an adult.

10-11am. Please pre-book: tickets.visitguildford.com.

Friday 25 January

The Gingerbread Man Haslemere Educational Museum

78 High St, Haslemere GU27 2LA

Saturday 26 January Big Garden Bird Watch Haslemere Educational Museum

Painting for Under 5s The Lightbox

Chobham Rd, Woking £4 per

child, adult free. 11-11.45am.

Please book.

familiesonline.co.uk

th

Book free trial now: Fabulous and fun your adult and children costumes to  hire07764 for your752675 child’s party!  lbmusic@gmx.co.uk Location

With over 60 favourite characters to choose from including Olaf, Peppa Pig & George, Captain Barnacles & Kwazzi, Angelina Ballerina, Postman Pat, Hello Kitty, Buzz Lightyear and many more!

th

holiday holidaycourses courses

Storytelling for Under 5s The Lightbox

Friday 18 January

9:40am-10:20am: 2.5 – 4 years 10:30am-11:10am: 18 months – 2.5 years 11.20am – 12.00pm: 3 – 18 months

theatre > drama > dance > holidaymusical courses holiday courses

Tuesday 15 January

allocated on a first-come, firstserved basis from 10.30am.

Suggested donation £3.

11-11.40am.

Hands on music making classes for children aged 3

Guildford, 7PD * Includes instruments, puppets stories Ledplaying by a18mths-2.5yrs Music Therapist with &GU4 over 15 months singing, – 4 10.30am: years 11.20: 3-18mths years experience working with young children * Led by a music therapist Classes include singing, playing instruments, puppets with over 15 years and stories experience working with children. th Jan Lead by a professional MusicWeds Therapist with over Classes start 2019 Book9your free trial15 now: * Atyears’ Jacobs Well, experience working with  young children 07764 752675 9:40am: 2.5-4yrs Jacobs Well Village Hall near Guildford  lbmusic@gmx.co.uk 10.30am: 18mths-2.5yrs Guildford, GU4 7PD Weekly classes starting 11.20: 3-18mths Wednesday 9th January 2019

Wednesday 92.5 –January 2019 Weekly starting 9:40am-10:20am: 4 years Weekly classes classes starting We also offer Character Parties Jacobs Well th months and Frozen2019 Parties!

Village Hall, 10:30am-11:10am: 18 – 2.5 years Wednesday 9 January Down Lane, Compton, Guildford th January Jacobs Well Rd, 9 2019 10-11am. Child £5,Wednesday adults 20-50% of all– proceeds goes to Georgia’s Fund, 9:40am-10:20am: 2.5 4 years Guildford, 11.20am – 12.00pm: 3 – 18 months free. Pre-booking required.

GU4 7PD Children’s ICU @ King’s College Hospital For under 5s10:30am-11:10am: with an adult.

18 months – 2.5 years 9:40am-10:20am: 2.5 – 4 years Have a play with air-dry clay in www.georgiaspartycostumehire.com 9:40am-10:20am: 2.5 4 years this fun and 11.20am tactile session to – 12.00pm: 3 months –– 18 months 10:30am-11:10am: 18 – 2.5 years explore squishing, squeezing 10:30am-11:10am: months – 2.5 years and mark-making. musical18 theatre > drama > dance > 11.20am – 12.00pm: 3 – 18>> drama months musical theatre drama > dance > musical theatre > dance > holiday courses Watts Tots: Clay 11.20am – 12.00pm:musical 3 – theatre 18 months Location > drama > dance > Watts Tots: Clay Watts Gallery Artists’ Village

species on this interactive and educational tour. Please book: www.merristwoodevents.co.uk.

Chobham Rd, Woking Spaces

Classes include singing, playing instruments, th Jan 2019 and 9stories Classespuppets start Weds * Classes for 3 9:40am: months -2.5-4yrs 4 years Jacobs Well Village Hall

NEW!

years’ experience working with starting young children Weekly classes

1.30pm - 2.30pm. Enjoy this story, make a finger puppet and decorate a mini gingerbread man. For under 5s with an adult. Child £2, adult £1. No need to book.

Holly Lane, Worplesdon GU3 3PE Meet a wide range of

Trial

aged 3 months – 4 years Led by a Music Therapist withSession! over 15 years experience working with young children

78 High St, Haslemere Family

drop-in event. 10.30am - 1pm.

Have fun together making bird cakes, enjoy craft activities and discover the birds in the Museum galleries and gardens.

Free entry, no need to book.

Location Location Location

Inspiring theatre training for 4-18 year olds Inspiring theatre training for year olds Inspiring theatre training for4-18 4-18 year olds Inspiring theatre training for 4-18 4-18 year olds Inspiring theatre training for year olds

388 9789 0845 388 9789 Jacobs Well 0845 0845 388 9789 0845 388 9789 0845 388 9789 www.surreytheatreacademy.co.uk www.surreytheatreacademy.co.uk www.surreytheatreacademy.co.uk Village Hall, www.surreytheatreacademy.co.uk www.surreytheatreacademy.co.uk Jacobs Well Rd, Village Hall, Guildford, Jacobs Well Jacobs Well Rd, GU4 7PD Village Hall, Guildford, Village Hall, Jacobs Well Rd, GU4 7PD Jacobs Well Rd, Guildford, Guildford, GU4 7PD GU4 7PD

Merrist Wood Animal Encounter Tour

Please see details on 13 Jan.

Families Surrey West 17

What’s On

Please double check event with organiser to avoid disappointment.

RHS Garden Wisley

not drop into the Make Space which runs every Sunday from 10am-1pm and 1.30pm-3pm.

There is a new craft activity each week for families to enjoy (included in admission).

Sat 9 February Wild Families Newlands Corner

See listing on 12 January.

Sat 26 Jan - Sun 3 Mar The Great Brick Safari RHS Garden Wisley

Woking GU23 6QB Search for more than 40 animals and plants in the garden and both the temperate and tropical zones of The Glasshouse. There will be loads of information about each animal or plant including their habitats, the food they eat and the conservation efforts going on around them. You can also join a LEGO® bricks making workshop in the Glasshouse Gallery; buy your chosen LEGO® bricks animal and away you go. As a fun souvenir, have your photo taken in the LEGO® bricks jeep. The Glasshouse is open from 10am-3.45pm daily.

Book admission tickets online in advance to save 10%.

Tuesday 29 January Storytelling for Under 5s The Lightbox

See listing on 15 January.

Friday 1 February Fidgety Fish And Friends Haslemere Educational Museum 78 High St, Haslemere Enjoy

this story and learn about the friends living under the sea.

For under 5s with an adult.

Child £2, adult £1. No need to book. 10.30am - 11.30am.

Saturday 2 February Terrific Tudors Haslemere Educational Museum

78 High St, Haslemere GU27 2LA

10.30am-12pm. Lots of fun Tudor themed activities for ages 5-11. Mem £5, Non mem £7. Booking advised.

Sunday 3 February Surrey Resident Open Day Watts Gallery - Artists’ Village Down Lane, Compton, Guildford

Free entry to all Surrey residents (please bring a current 2019 utility bill, library card or driving license). Why Watts Gallery - Artists’ Village

Big Fish Little Fish Family Rave Farnham Maltings

Bridge Square, Farnham 2pm.

Dance floor filled with bubbles, balloons, glitter plus the legendary parachute dance, craft tables, baby chill out and play areas. For ages 0-8 and their adults. Please pre-book.

Tues 12 February Storytelling for Under 5s The Lightbox

See listing on 15 January.

Friday 15 February

Half Term Fun on the Farm Bocketts Farm Young Street, Fetcham KT22 9BS

Enjoy a great day out on the farm this February Half Term with the start of the Spring lambing. There are up to 70 lambs due from mid February with daily Meet the Shepherd sessions giving an opportunity to learn all about the newborns. Birds of Prey flying demonstrations will also take place twice daily from MondayFriday. What’s more, there is a full programme of fun farm activities including pony rides, tractor rides, animal handling and pig racing. Outdoors, enjoy the jumping pillows, treehouse towers, pedal go karts and play trails. Plus the large indoor area with a giant heated playbarn, trampolines, rideon tractors and craft corner means you can have a great day out whatever the weather!

Bocketts Farm

Oi! Get Off Our Train!

Haslemere Educational Museum

- 2.30pm. Story and craft for under 5s with an adult. Child £2, adult £1. No need to book.

See listing on 18 January.

Sat 16–Sun 24 Feb Mini Farmer Week Godstone Farm

Tilburstow Hill Rd, Godstone RH9 8LX For all wanna-be

farmers and animal lovers, Godstone Farm is the place to explore this February Half Term. A week-long chance to take part in true farmyard fun, with animal encounters galore, earn your stamps as you complete activities on the farm trail. There’s feeding and grooming, all whilst learning about animal husbandry and why the residents at Godstone Farm are so happy! Expect to see leaping lambs in their cosy animal barn, furry and feathered babies in the animal holding area and pretty pink snouts when you’re out and about! Their warm indoor play areas provide a chance to let off steam and refuel ahead of more animal antics.

Godstone Farm

© National Trust Images Megan Taylor

servants have been emptying the rooms to prepare - but lots of items have gone missing!

Help to find the missing objects hidden around the gardens, pairing them up with the pictures on the trail sheet.

Admission + £3 per child.

Mon 18 - Fri 22 Feb Penguin Activity Week Birdworld

Holt Pound, Farnham GU10 4LD

Penguin-themed arts and crafts, penguin feeding talks at 11am and 3.30pm and a penguin exploration trail. Park open 10am-4.30pm; events running 11am-3.30pm.

Kids Camp The Square Camberley

78 High St, Haslemere 1.30pm

Painting for Under 5s The Lightbox

National Trust Trail

Nautical Knot Trail Hatchlands Park

East Clandon, Guildford GU4 7RT 10am-4pm. Follow in the

footsteps of Georgian naval hero, Admiral Boscawen, and have a go at tying boating knots on the fun sea-themed trail. Normal admission applies.

Half–term Trail: Shapes and Sizes Claremont Landscape Garden

Portsmouth Rd, Esher KT10 9JG

10.30 am – 4pm. Get some fresh air as you discover all things great and small with the children’s trail. Admission + £1 per trail. On Tues 19Thu 21 Feb, 1-3pm there is a drop-in Crafternoon - creative crafts in the Thatched Cottage.

Admission + £1.50 per craft.

Half–term Trail: Shapes and Sizes Winkworth Arboretum

Hascombe Rd, Godalming GU8 4AD 10.30am-3pm. Admission

+ £1 per trail. Guaranteed fun, come rain or shine with the children’s trail.

Family Half Term Fun: Polesden Pairs Polesden Lacey

Enjoy free activities in half term.

The Kids Camp will close from 1-2pm each day and is for 4-10 year olds with an adult.

Mon 18 Feb 11am-4pm: Animal Farm with Jakes Playworld Tues 19 Feb 11am–4pm: Arts & Crafts with Mrs Potts’ Place Wed 20 Feb 11am-1pm: Rhyme Time and Storytelling with Camberley Library Wed 20 Feb 2-4pm Initiation to Judo with Camberley Judo Club Thurs 21 Feb 11am-4pm: Have fun while learning with Explore Learning Centre Fri 22 Feb 2-4pm: Wiggle and Jiggle with Arena Leisure Centre

Monday 18 February Fantastic Forests Craft Club, Alice Holt Forest

Farnham GU10 4LS 10am-3pm.

For ages 5-12. £20. There will be guided outdoor exploration and games around the forest, as well as seasonal indoor crafts sessions using gathered natural materials. Crafts may include, for example; woven willow ornaments, pinecone animals, dream catchers, bark rubbings, and handmade ‘nature books’. Booking essential: enquiries.aliceholt@ groundwork.org.uk or 07736 132 692.

Fantastic Forests Craft Club

Gt Bookham, Dorking RH5 6BB

In this imaginative trail for families, there’s panic in the house. King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (the Queen Mum) are visiting for their honeymoon and Mrs Greville’s

18 Families Surrey West

familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On

GYMNASTICS FACTORY EXPLORE * DEVELOP * FUN * BELIEVE * ACHIEVE Girls & Boys Classes Teens & Adult Gym Babies, Toddlers & Pre-schoolers

Holiday courses Party bookings

Book a FREE trial today!

Guildford 01483 455060 www.gymnasticsfactory.co.uk

NOW IN GUILDFORD! We offer lessons for EVERYONE SWIMMING SCHOOL BABIES from 4-24 months STROKE Correction & Training LEARN 2 SWIM 2yrs+ ADULT Swimming Lessons Private indoor pool 6 Days per week, 9am-8pm Private or Group Lessons WWW.RUBBADUCKIES.COM

maurice@rubbaduckies.com

07956 162154

UNTIL 15 MARCH

Find out how Kumon maths and English study can help your child to achieve beyond expectations. Book now!

Farnham Frimley Guildford East Guildford North Haslemere

01252 416337 01276 919818 01483 901 477 01372 378 377 01428 642 863

Developing ability for 60 years

kumon.co.uk

Terms and conditions apply. Fees vary. Participating study centres only.

Please refer to your local study centre. Subject to availability.

February Half Term Tuesday 19 - Sunday 24 February

Kids

go

FREE Explore with family trails Make at drop-in workshops Play in woodlands February Half Term 2019.indd 1

familiesonline.co.uk

Book online now | wattsgallery.org.uk 01483 810235 | Guildford, GU3 1DQ 10/12/2018 16:14

Families Surrey West 19

Please double check event with organiser to avoid disappointment.

What’s On Tues 19 February Family Drop In Event: Celebrating Stamps Haslemere Educational Museum

78 High St, Haslemere GU27 2LA

10.30am - 1pm. Celebrate the simple postage stamp with lots of colouring and design activities. Mem £2, non mem £4, no need to book.

Dance In A Day Princes Hall

Aldershot 10am-5pm. For ages

6-10. £20. Please pre-book.

Work on a number of short choreographed pieces that will be performed to parents at the end of the day.

Cardboard Camera The Lightbox

Chobham Rd, Woking For 5-8

year olds. 1.30-3pm. Make your own cardboard camera to showcase your drawing designs on a reel. £8 per child, accompanying adult free.

Please pre-book.

Action Stations Sayers Croft Trust

characters like the pig in the wig!

The Poetry Takeaway

On Sat 23 & Sun 24 Feb 11am - 4pm, free with admission.

Grab a bite of poetry at this takeaway van serving up fresh poems to order!

Wed 20 February Wild Rangers Conservation Club Nower Wood Educational Nature Reserve

Leatherhead KT22 8QA 9.30am

- 4pm. Be a woodland manager for a day and help Surrey Wildlife Trust manage their ancient woodland getting stuck in with conservation tasks, using tools, whittling with a knife and lighting fires. For 12-16 year olds.

Booking essential: www. surreywildlifetrust.org/events.

Fantastic Forests Craft Club, Alice Holt Forest See listing on 18 January.

Fantastic Forests Craft Club

2pm. A day of activities for children with Special Educational Needs and their siblings. For ages 8-15.

Booking essential by emailing trust@sayers-croft.org.uk. £8.

February Half Term Watts Gallery - Artists’ Village

Down Lane, Compton, Guildford

Puppets, Poetry & Projections 10am - 4pm,

free with admission. Dropin and make shadow puppet characters to create scenes alongside poems using an overhead projector. Be inspired by the stories and characters in Christina Rossetti’s poetry to create live animation.

Terracotta Clay Goblins

10.30am-12.30pm or 2-4pm. £9.50 per child. For ages 8-12.

Inspired by Christina Rossetti’s poem ‘Goblin Market’, sculpt a goblin or other fairytale creature out of terracotta clay.

Please book online.

Sing Song on Thurs 21 - Fri 22 Feb 10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm & 2.30pm. Free with admission. Pre-booking advised. Recommended for under 5s. Join in with songs and rhymes featuring fun

20 Families Surrey West

Family fun event, be creative and make beautiful things together in this stunning venue. Treasure hunt and other activities available.

Treasury, shop and café open.

Free parking. Suggested donation £2 per child.

10am-12.30pm.

A chance to work with a wide variety of animals, and learn more about them. 10am-3pm.

For ages 12-16. Please book at: www.merristwoodevents. co.uk/junior-animal-keeperexperience.

Stag Hill, Guildford GU2 7UP

Sing-A-Long-A: The Greatest Showman GLive

Guildford 7pm. Watch the

film and sing along.

A Knights Tale Museum of Farnham

38 West St, Farnham GU9 7DX

Art and crafts exploring the world of knights, castles, dragons and princesses. Dropin from 10.30am-12.30am or 1.30pm-3.30pm. For ages 3-7 with an adult. £3 per child.

Colour Spinners The Lightbox

Chobham Rd, Woking Make

Thurs 21 February Wild Explorers Holiday Club Nower Wood Education Centre

Show the Love The Living Planet Centre

Tues 19 - Sun 24 Feb

Junior Animal Keeper Experience Merrist Wood College

colours collide to see what patterns your colour spinner will make. For ages 4+ with an adult but all ages are welcome.

Drop-in from 1.30-4pm.

Suggested donation £3.

Ewhurst 01483 275 541 10am-

Brewery Rd, Woking Family workshop making beautiful bunting decorated in green hearts to help us Show the Love for our world. 10.30am, 11.15am and 12pm. Suggested donation £3. Please book at www.wwf.org.uk/whatson.

Wonderful Wednesday: Half Term Fun Guildford Cathedral

Wild Wednesday Sayers Croft Trust

Ewhurst 01483 275 541

Scramble up the climbing wall, then navigate the blindfold trail. Session runs from 2-4pm and costs just £4. Perfect for 6-10 year olds. Parents are welcome to drop their children off or stay. Booking is required.

Early Birds Haslemere Educational Museum

78 High St, Haslemere GU27 2LA

9-10am. Special opening of the Museum, for families with children who have an Autism Spectrum Condition.

The galleries will be open to explore and there will be an opportunity to handle special artefacts too. Free, donations welcome. Book in advance.

Junior Animal Keeper Experience Merrist Wood College

Holly Lane, Worplesdon, Guildford GU3 3PE You will

work in the arid and tropical biomes, domestic pet area and farm. 10am-3pm. For ages 8-11. Please book at: www.merristwoodevents. co.uk/junior-animal-keeperexperience.

Leatherhead 9.30am-4pm.

An action packed fun day out in the woods looking for wildlife, building a campfire, making crafts, building shelters and toasting a marshmallow. For ages 5-11. Booking essential: www. surreywildlifetrust.org/events

Wild Explorers Holiday Club

Holiday Club Sayers Croft Trust

Ewhurst 01483 275 541

8.30am-4pm. For ages 8-12.

An action packed day of adventure and exploration.

There will be an adventure session (high ropes, archery, climbing, caving, raft building etc) and an exploration session (shelter building, stream walk, compass trail etc). Booking is essential. £25.

Play in a Day, Princes Hall Aldershot 10am-5pm. For ages

7-11. £20. The Wizard of Oz. Please pre-book.

Holly Lane, Worplesdon GU3 3PE

Earth Hour Family Workshop The Living Planet Centre

Brewery Rd, Woking Find out actions you can take to protect our world and make a beautiful artwork to act as a lasting reminder of your Promise for the Planet. 10.30am, 11.15am and 12pm. Please book at www.wwf.org.uk/whatson.

Suggested donation £3.

Painting Light and Shadow The Lightbox

Chobham Rd, Woking For ages

8-12. 1.30-3pm. Learn about painting light and shadow using acrylic paints on canvas.

Please pre-book. £8 per child, accompanying adult free.

Shadow Silhouettes Haslemere Educational Museum

78 High St, Haslemere 10.30am-

12pm. Create silhouettes using your own shadows. For ages 5-11. Mem £5, non mem £7.

Booking advised.

A Knights Tale Museum of Farnham

See listing on 20 February.

Friday 22 February Lollipop Frames The Lightbox

Chobham Rd, Woking Add

colour, lines and patterns to create simple picture frames for your own favourite photographs. For ages 4+ with an adult but all ages are welcome. Drop-in from 1.304pm. Suggested donation £3.

Fantastic Forests Craft Club, Alice Holt Forest See listing on 18 January.

Sat 23 February Dora the Explorer The Square

Camberley Dora the Explorer

will be making personal appearances at intervals throughout the day.

Tues 26 February Storytelling for Under 5s The Lightbox

See listing on 15 January.

Mozart and Muffins, The Guildhall See listing on 22 January.

familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On

● ● ● ●

RAD Ballet ISTD Tap & Modern Saturday Workshops Acrobatic Gynastics

● ● ● ●

Musical Theatre & Singing Street Dance Mothers & Toddlers Adult Tap

T 01428 652360 | E haparts@aol.com | www. www.haparts.co.uk haparts.co.uk

• • • •

Wild Tots

at Newlands Corner & Nower Wood* ub Cl ay id le ol b H ila m va er o a f T als

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Enjoy time in nature with your little one – bugs, mud, stories and exploring galore!

Booking essential

surreywildlifetrust.org/wildtots *Just off the A24 nr Leatherhead

Go Ape Gruffalo sculptures Cafe Cycle hire

Call 0300 067 4448 forestryengland.uk Alice Holt Forest

Bocketts Farm Park

AMAZING OFF PEAK

WINTER WEEKDAY PRICES ENJOY GREAT VALUE VISITS THIS WINTER WITH OUR REDUCED ENTRY PRICE! ONLY

£7.50

PER PERSON

(For everyone age 2 years +)

VALID MON - FRI ONLY 7th Jan - 15th Feb 2019

www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

Situated in Leatherhead, Surrey. 5 minutes from J9 M25.

D AR AW WI NN ING !

FM

Mini Farmer Week The farm team need some help this February half term.

Can you tick off all the jobs on the list?

16th - 24th February '19

The Great Brick Safari 26 January - 3 March 2019

This winter more than 40 life-size LEGO® brick animals are coming to Wisley. See how many animals you can spot whilst learning about their habitat. Buy garden tickets online and save 10% at rhs.org.uk/wisley. RHS members go free.

RHS Registered Charity No. 222879/SC038262

familiesonline.co.uk

wisley_safari_87_130.indd 1

12/12/2018 12:48

Book online and save ve at www.godstonefarm.co.uk

Families Surrey West 21

What’s On

All holiday camps & sports courses need to be booked in advance.

holiday camps & sports courses

Farnham Maltings

Over the Moon

Fri 18 Jan 10am, 11.30am, 2pm. An interactive musical adventure for babies and toddlers.

Ensonglopedia of Animals

Sun 27 Jan 11am & 2pm. Twenty-six animal songs!

Bring Your Own Baby Comedy

Spark4Kids

The SCL Winter Games 2019

This February, SCL gives your little superstars a VIP pass to the slopes with an exciting themed programme of winter sports activities and off-piste games!

The Ofsted registered, multi-activity, Club Energy will be made up of themed activities including a mountain landscape arts and crafts project, indoor curling and a bobsleigh time trial among many others! Meanwhile their FA chartered Soccer School will run at the same venues and your child can choose which they prefer on the day. SCL has 18 years’ industry experience and their passionate, caring team understand that every child has different interests. Their clubs are perfect for children aged 4-12 and run between 8am and 6pm. Prices start from £23.40. Earlybird discounts apply! Check their website for details. Visit www.wearescl.co.uk/holiday-clubs for more information and to book. Runs 18–22 February.

Arduino coding, Unity/C#, Python, HTML/ CSS and JavaScript in a fun, engaging environment. Ages 5-7 years, 8-12 and 13-16. The half-term workshops are taking place in Guildford from Monday 18th February through to Friday 22nd February. Visit the Spark4Kids website www.spark4kids.com for more details.

Gymfinity Kids Holiday Camp

The Meads Shopping Centre, Farnborough

Holiday camps for ages 5-14 for members and non-members from Mon 18 - Fri 22 February. Packed full of fun activities from gymnastics and Ninja classes, arts and crafts to school subject related activities around science, art, geography and much more. 8.30am-4pm. £25 per day. Call 01252 968445 to book. Limited availability.

February Half-Term Holiday computer coding workshops, 020 8090 1444 www.spark4kids.com Spark4Kids are running all-day holiday workshops that introduce children to computer coding through the medium of games. Available are courses on Minecraft Modding, Roblox Coding, Robotics, Games Design, MicroBit &

22 Families Surrey West

Mon 18 Feb 11am & 2pm. A magical musical puppetry adventure for ages 4+.

Nest

1 March 10.30am, 11.30am, 1pm & 2pm.

A multi-sensory experience for prewalking babies and their carers.

G Live

3 Little Pig Tails

Sat 19 Jan 11am & 2pm. With puppets, live music and lots of joining in.

Comedy Club 4 Kids

Sat 26 Jan and Sat 23 Feb 3pm. For ages 6-11 years and their grown ups.

Children’s Concert

Wed 30 Jan 10.45am & 1.30pm. An orchestral concert for 5-11 year olds.

How Does This Politics Thing Work Then?

Sat 16 Feb 2pm.

Horrible Histories

Southern Pro Musica: Family Classics

Sun 3 March. Free hands-on instrumental workshops at 1pm, concert 3pm.

Haslemere Hall

Cinderella

Fri 11 – Sat 19 Jan. Family panto.

HG Wells Centre

Hazel Av, Guildford 01483 566589 guildfordnscc.surrey.sch.uk

Spark4Kids Computer Coding Workshops in Guildford

Mimi and the Mountain Dragon

Thurs 14 - Sat 16 Feb.

Forest School Holiday Club

Forest School holiday club is open to children aged 2-8 years. Fully qualified and friendly staff provide a range of activities in the spacious centre and inspiring outdoor area. These sessions are available in the Spring, Summer and Autumn half terms and Easter and Summer school holidays. Some of the exciting activities include: Forest School forest games, Holiday Club den building, tree climbing, minibeast hunting, making hot chocolate on the fire, making bird feeders, creating pictures and sculptures from the environment, and much more.

Thurs 14 Feb 11.30am. Upper age limit is 12 months.

Family Concert

Sat 19 Jan 3.30pm. www.wokingso.org.uk

Merrow Village Hall

Robin Hood: Family Pantomime

Thurs 24 Jan – Sat 26 Jan. Presented

by Merrow Dramatic Society. merrowdramatic.org.uk.

Gymfinity Kids

Rubba Duckies Swim School

Rubba Duckies is offering three day intensive swimming camps in Guildford from Tues 19 - Thurs 21 February with 30 minute lessons each day. They teach in a lovely, clean, private pool with small class sizes. Group classes are £36 for three days, private classes are £72 for three days. Intensive consecutive lessons build up your child’s confidence in the pool. www.facebook.com/RubbaDuckiesZA/.

Children’s Theatre Camberley Theatre

The Amazing Adventures of Pinocchio

Sat 2 March 1pm & 5pm. A brand new, larger-than-life musical adaptation of this much-loved classic.

Chichester Hall

Over the Rainbow

Wed 23 – Sat 26 Jan. Based on The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Presented by The Witley Pantomime Company. www.witleypanto.co.uk.

The Mytchett Centre

The Emperor’s New Clothes

Thurs 24 – Sat 26 Jan. theplaymakers.org.uk.

POLKA THEATRE

Wind in the Willows

Until 17 Feb. A wonderfully funny tale with music, songs and the usual Polka magic! Recommended for ages 5+.

In the Winter Wood

Until 17 Feb. Tales of bravery and friendship for ages 3-6.

Princes Hall

All Star Super Slam Wrestling

Tues 19 Feb 7.30pm.

Yvonne Arnaud Theatre

The Cat in the Hat

Thurs 7 – Sun 9 March. With riotous rhymes and infectious humour.

Shrek The Musical

Sat 23 – Sat 30 March. Must-see musical theatre for all the family!

In the Mill Studio Treasure Island

Fri 22 – Sat 23 Feb 2.30pm & 5pm. Dress as a pirate to be in with a chance of winning a prize!

familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On SCL HOLIDAY CLUBS FOR 4 -12 YEAR OLDS FROM

£26

THE

DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE

REGISTERED

BOOK EARLY AND SAVE

10%*

USE CO D E: EXPIRES

FAM10

1ST FEB 2019

WINTER GAMES

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2019 MONDAY18TH - FRIDAY 22ND

30+ VENUES AVAILABLE E

ACROSS BERKSHIR HAMPSHIRE, LONDON AND SURREY

THIS FEBRUARY, SCL GIVES YOUR LITTLE SUPERSTARS A VIP PASS TO THE SLOPES WITH AN EXCITING THEMED PROGRAMME OF WINTER SPORTS ACTIVITIES AND OFF-PISTE GAMES!

BOOK ONLINE

wearescl.co.uk/holiday-clubs - 0345 644 5747 *Offer expires 1st February 2019. For full terms and conditions please visit www.wearescl.co.uk/school-sport-activities-terms-conditions.

The secret to success is…

sharing your child’s reading journey Regular deliveries of books at your child’s reading level.

www.readingchest.co.uk Book Rental for Children Learning to Read

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To advertise in Families Magazine please call Sarah on 01737 558898 Families Surrey West 23