Families West London September 2018

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IN THIS ISSUE

• Choosing clubs and classes

for your child • Make the most of school open days • Educating your child about social media • WIN! A term of swimming lessons with Swimming Nature!

See page 5 for details

Issue 123 September 2018

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In this issue...

After a long, hot summer it is sometimes refreshing to have a new start and get back into routines. The autumn term is probably the one where your school child will absorb most new information so it is worth being ready for it. If you are looking for a new school, then this issue will be very useful. We have contacted the majority of independent schools in and around west London and found out about when, where and how to visit them.

We also give you tips on what to look out for when making your visit. It is also time to start booking the kids onto an after-school or weekend activity. We have put together listings of local classes available and many of them allow one free trial class. It's exciting to think it may be the start of a lifelong passion for your little one!

2 6 7

News & Views

Choosing the right Clubs & Classes Explore Education

Activities, Clubs & Classes listings 10 Social Media Awareness 8

12 Making the best of Open Days

Like us on Facebook Families West Magazine

2 Families west London

14 School Open Day listings 16 Independent or State Education?

18 What’s on in West London

21 Want to get fit with your family?

22 Go WILD this Autumn!

23 Party Listings, & Classified ads Follow us on Twitter @FamiliesWest

Families West London is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company.

All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families West London are fully protected by copyright and none of the editoria or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families West London. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

Design by Martin Driscoll. Email: martindriscoll@yahoo.com Printed by The MANSON Group Ltd, 8 Porters Wood, Valley Road Industrial Estate, St Albans AL3 6PZ. www.mansongroup.co.uk

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News & Views A Confident Start with Jigsaw Performing Arts

A new school year is here, which means that children across London and the Home Counties are taking to the stage as Jigsaw begins an exciting new term of drama, singing and dance classes; the perfect activity to escape the cold, wet October weekends. Jigsaw Performing Arts classes are designed to develop children’s confidence, focus and social skills, while having fun and making lots of new friends. With more children attending than ever before, now is the time to book a two-week trial and discover these unique benefits at a school near you.

For more information or to book a two-week trial, visit: www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk or call 020 8447 4530.

Debonair Maintenance

As family lives become busier, there is never time to sort out those neverending handyman jobs around the house. They can quickly escalate and turn into something more serious. But this is where Debonair Maintenance can help. They offer a full range of handyman services - ideal for those household and garden jobs. Whether you have cracked paving stones or need replacement worktops, they can take care of your essential odd jobs. If you can’t find the time, or the tools, they can provide the solution. They charge by the hour.

On arrival, they'll provide an assessment of the work involved and the estimated cost If they think the work is going to be more complex and costly, they will always let you know before they start.

As well as a full range of home improvement works, they provide specialist electrical and plumbing services. And for more ambitious projects, their partner construction and joinery companies can provide high-spec building services, as well as elegant and efficient storage solutions Contact them for a free consultation at: info@debonairgroup.co.uk or call 020 8567 7778.

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West London Dance Academy

West London Dance Academy run classes in Ballet, Tap and Modern Jazz for ages 3 - 19 years in Ealing and Chiswick. The Academy enters 2- 3 exam sessions a year and have just received the results from the June session for which 75% of the pupils achieved top marks distinction and 25 % achieved merits. Two of their pupils have won a place at the Royal Ballet School this year and will be joining past pupils. They also run an intensive Teacher Training course for pupils who wish to further their careers as dance teachers.

The WLDA pupils are now preparing for their annual production of Alice in the Greatest Wonderland to be performed in March 2019. If you would like to book your child in for a free trial lesson or if you are interested in perusing a career in dance teaching, please contact the academy. Email Natalie Parnel at: wlda@gmail.com or call 07795578781 www.westlondondanceacademy.com

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News & Views EALING TRAILFINDERS

Another successful year for Dance Gallery!

After the success of their fabulous ‘sell out’ 6 performance musical theatre show at Questors Theatre this March, Dance Gallery is looking forward to the new September term!

Pupils will once more be enjoying the experience of fitness through dance, learning many different styles including street dance, contemporary, commercial/modern, ballet and tap.

Classes are available for 4 - 18 year olds and take place at St Stephens Church Hall, Ealing, W13 8HB (Mon - Thurs 3.45 7pm). Come and try a free class and see how much fun keeping fit can be! Please see website for timetable and more details.

Tel 020 8566 9672 or email: jill@dancegallery.co.uk www.dancegallery.co.uk

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Newly appointed Head of Community Ross Doneghan is leading a brand new department at Ealing Trailfinders, and first on the list of priorities has been the launch of the Rugby Camps for the 2018/19 season.

Doneghan has joined the club from Harlequins where he coordinated their Schools Delivery, and he will now be looking to increase the engagement between the Minis and Juniors.

The new rugby camps will run throughout the upcoming campaign with camps on offer in August, October, February, Easter and May all based at Trailfinders Sports Club.

The camps are for all children aged 5 - 15 years old and are for boys & girls who want to have fun with their friends, learn new skills and be coached by RFU Qualified coaches as well as some of the Ealing Trailfinders players.

Specifically designed days will allow all playing levels to attend while having fun. The 3 day camps will see players practicing passing, catching, kicking, skills and game understanding.

They run from 8am until 3pm but a new option allows parents an ‘early riser’ or ‘late leaver’ offering to make the timings as convenient as possible.

The price of £40 per day represents great value whilst a discount of £100 for all three days gives the incentive to be involved for the whole time making maximum use of the coaching on offer.

Here are the dates for the October Half Term 2018: Tuesday 23rd · Wednesday 24th · Thursday 25th October To find out more about our their Community Programme please email: community@etprm.com

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Lemon Tree and St Matthew’s Montessori schools based in Ealing Broadway offering both full day care (8.00am-6.00pm) and term time (9.15am-3.15am) for children aged from 1.5 years to 5 years old.

We offer French, Ballet, Yoga, Drama and PE inclusive of fees.

Full and part time sessions available. Qualified and experienced teachers offer a high standard of learning, nurturing and care.

Lemon Tree Montessori: 07495 898 760 (Full Day Care) St Matthew’s Montessori: 07856 364153 (Term Time) Website: www.lemontreemontessori.com

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Choose the right club or class for your child...

Picking the right extra-curricular activities for your child can sometimes be overwhelming. There are a huge variety of sports and classes available now from coding to Mandarin, from street dance to circus skills, as well as more traditional sports. Here’s our guide on how to choose the most appropriate club or class for your child.

Things to Consider:

Will your child enjoy the class/club?

If they enjoy something, whether it’s art, football, animation or French they are likely to look forward to training with their team or attending a class every week.

Try Before You Buy Trial classes are a great way for them to experience something before you sign up for a term or group of classes.

Many clubs and classes offer a free trial before you sign up.

Try a Variety Variety is the spice of life. If your schedule allows it, get your children to try a few different things on a trial basis. If they are not keen on trying something new, get them to go with a friend.

Can you Commit?

Some activities involve early morning practice or games at the weekend. Can your family life and schedule accommodate the commitment needed?

By Claire Winter

If your child plays sport competitively, it can often mean training daily or at least three times a week.

Think about Cost Some activities are more expensive than others. 1:1 tuition or private lessons are more costly, whereas classes and team sports tend to cost less. Guiding or Scouts is an inexpensive club to join, and it’s great for team building and trying a variety of different activities.

Investigate this option ahead of time though, as there can be waiting lists.

How Many?

How many activities are too many?

This is really up to you but if you are tired of driving your children to all of their activities, it’s likely your child will be too; perhaps you are doing too much. Equally, if your children are bored at home and asking to be entertained, maybe it’s time to sign them up for something new.

Again take the lead from your child. Some children thrive from lots of extra-curricular activities while others get overwhelmed and over-stimulated. Listen to them and adjust their schedule accordingly.

Families West London asked parents across the UK for their views:

Suzanne says, “I think extra clubs and lessons help build confidence and also give children a wider network of friends from other schools.”

Amanda likes extra-curricular activities because they give her more flexibility so she can work. “I love them for giving me an hour or two of extra time at the end of the day!”

Meli worries children are getting overscheduled. “I think it’s good for children to learn new skills and to develop their interests but it can be too much for children and their parents.

I do feel there is too much pressure to do extra activities.

I believe clubs and classes are good but in moderation.”

Pippa thinks clubs and classes teach her children new skills.

“I like that my children get to learn things that school wouldn’t necessarily offer.

It broadens their experiences and makes them more resilient to all that life offers.

It also teaches them to have an open mind to new experiences and people.

For example, music lessons can help with concentration, so they have a positive effect on school work too!”

Faye thinks that clubs and classes help your child find their passions but being at home is important too. “When they are young I think it’s good to give the kids opportunities to find the things they really love to do but I’m conscious not to overdo it!! Quality playing time at home is just as important."

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Explore Learning Interview Explore Learning provides maths and English tuition to children aged four to 14, with 139 centres across the country. We caught up with an Explore Learning member.

How long have you been going to Explore?

Emily joined over 3 years ago.

Why did you join Explore?

To help raise Emily’s low self-esteem and to provide her with confidence in her learning and within herself.

How has Explore helped and what impact has Explore had?

They have provided Emily with the tools to enable her to take pride in her work, whilst learning and gaining confidence. It has taught Emily how to prioritise her work whilst completing the work within the required timescales.

Who would you recommend Explore to?

We would recommend Explore to any parent/guardian or child of any school age and of any ability.

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What advice would you give to other parents thinking about bringing their children to Explore?

Attend a ‘free’ trial session with your child at a convenient centre.

“Her school work and self-confidence has significantly improved.”

Can you tell me what you think makes Explore Learning a unique tutoring service?

They have knowledgeable members of staff/tutors who really do care about the children and their on-going learning.

Explore offers great ‘staff to children’ ratios, which enables each child to be able to ask for help where necessary.

How do Explore tutors support your child in their sessions?

The tutors make Emily feel

welcome and are supportive, friendly, approachable and encouraging. Both good work and difficulties that Emily has overcome are praised.

What does Emily enjoy about her sessions at Explore Learning?

Emily has seen for herself the progress she has made at school, which can be attributed to the excellent learning at Explore.

This has helped to boost Emily’s selfconfidence and makes her eager to continue with her sessions.

How has Explore worked with you as a family/supported you as a family?

Explore has provided a safe learning environment. The regular parent’s meetings and reports mean we can discuss progression and we can then set new goals for Emily.

September 2018

How has Explore supported what your child is working on at school?

Since Explore, Emily’s confidence and work has improved significantly and is clearly evident from Emily’s school reports. She recently sat her SATS tests and her great results can be attributed to Explore, as they ensured her learning was set at the correct level and in line with the National Curriculum. Emily has just commenced her first term at Senior School and Explore helped with the transition.

Get in touch with Explore Learning today by calling 033 0124 3802 to discuss your child’s need and book your free trial. Alternatively, visit: explorelearning.co.uk to find your nearest centre.

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Activities, Clubs & Classes

MUSIC AND MOVEMENT

HARTBEEPS Award-winning, original, multi-sensory musical baby and toddler classes with original music, bubbles, costumes, twinkles, sparkly parachutes, puppets and more. Classes in West Kensington, North Kensington, Notting Hill, Shepherds Bush and Maida Vale. t: 07738 522856 Classes in Ealing, Fulham, Putney, Kew, Chiswick, Hammersmith, Wandsworth, Barnes and Acton.

DANCE

BALLET4LIFE Since 2004. Ballet4life offers top quality.

Welcoming daily ballet, dance and fitness classes taught by professionals. All classes are held in large dance studios and our programme includes creative dance classes for kids, beginner ballet and barre courses, and dance fitness.

Mums and babies welcome. www.ballet4life.com Follow us: @ballet4lifeuk Like us: www.facebook.com/ballet4life.uk/ DANCE GALLERY Dance Gallery teaches many different styles of dance including street dance, contemporary, commercial/modern, ballet and tap.

The structured lessons promote fitness and confidence, with pupils enjoying learning fun exercises and routines. These routines build towards their famous “sell out” musical theatre

shows performed at Questors Theatre, Ealing.

Classes take place at St Stephens Church Hall, Ealing W13 8HB (Mon - Thurs 3.45 - 7pm). e: jill@dancegallery.co.uk www.dancegallery.co.uk KENSINGTON BALLET 18 months - 2 years.

Kensington, Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Notting Hill and Fulham. t: 07957 650 042 · www.kensingtonballet.com

STAGECOACH PERFORMING ARTS Provide fun and engaging weekly classes in dance, drama and singing in a safe and happy environment. Students aged 4 to 18 years are taught by a professional and experienced team of teachers. They offer two-week trials for all new students so that your child can try the class out.

To enrol go to: www.stagecoach.co.uk info@stagecoach.co.uk Chiswick - 020 8398 4709 Hammersmith & Kensington: 020 8398 8106 Ealing: 01494 260249 WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY Ballet classes in Chiswick & Ealing.

Free Trial Lesson. e: info@gmail.com · t: 07795 578781 www.westlondondanceacademy.com

WEST LONDON SCHOOL OF DANCE 21/2 - 16 years.

020 8743 3856 westlondondance@aol.com www.westlondonschoolofdance.co.uk

CIRCUS

ALBERT AND FRIENDS INSTANT CIRCUS Email or visit the website for all the classes. e: info@albertandfriendsinstantcircus.co.uk www.albertandfriendsinstantcircus.co.uk

CRAFTS

FUN WITH FIMO CLAY http://www.funwithfimoclay.co.uk/

DRAMA

ARTSED EXTRA Fun and engaging weekly Musical Theatre, Drama and Dance classes in Chiswick.

Develop skills and grow in confidence!

Available to children 4-16yrs of all abilities. e: ptc@artsed.co.uk t: 020 8987 6692 www.artsed.co.uk

HUZZAH Performing Arts & Mindfulness Build confidence from the inside out with a Huzzah weekly class. Drama, dance, singing and a touch of mindfulness. Ages 4 - 7.

Saturday 1 - 2.20pm in Queen's Park.

Sunday’s 10 - 11.30am in West Hampstead.

Creative, calm, confident kids.

Sign up for a FREE TRAIL at: www.huzzahperformingarts.com

From Baby to Ballerina

Classes for Boys and Girls aged 21/2 to 16 years old Ballet, Pointe Work, Jazz, Tap, Annual Performances

Classes held in: Bayswater, Notting Hill Gate, Oxford Street, Shepherds Bush and South Kensington

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PERFORM Weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-12s. Perform is a unique children’s drama school that has a special emphasis on child development. Perform uses a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s full potential. Run by highly experienced actorteachers, in smallgroups, Perform classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Coordination, and Concentration. The perform curriculum ensures plenty of fun, using a mix of energetic games, catchy songs and funky dances. All class materials are written by Perform, with apps, CDs and videos that the children can play at home to keep the magic alive. Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions. Visit: www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class today.

Venues: Acton, Brook Green, Chiswick, Ealing, Earls Court, ,Hammersmith, Ickenham, Kensington, Maida Vale, Notting Hill, Shepherds Bush, Turnham Green. e: enquiries@perform.org.uk t: 020 7255 9120 www.perform.org.uk/try

STAGECOACH PERFORMING ARTS Provide fun and engaging weekly classes in dance, drama and singing in a safe and happy environment. Students aged 4 to 18 years are taught by a professional and experienced team of teachers. They offer two-week trials for all new students so that your child can try the class out.

To enrol go to: www.stagecoach.co.uk e: info@stagecoach.co.uk Chiswick: 020 8398 4709 Hammersmith & Kensington: 020 8398 8106

FOOTBALL/SPORTS

KIDDIKICKS Football (W2,W4,W8,W10,W11,TW8).

For boys and girls from 18 months to age 7. e: info@kiddikicks.co.uk t: 020 7937 7965 www.kiddikicks.co.uk

JUMP LDN Empowers people through Double Dutch Skipping! Double Dutch is a socially fun sport and street game which promotes teamwork,

communication and unity.

Harrow Club, 187 Freston Rd, London W10 6TH (2mins from Latimer Road Station) JUMP YOUTH: 6pm-7pm (16yrs and under) JUMP FITNESS: 7pm-8pm (16yrs and over) e: info@jumpldn.com www.jumpldn.com www.facebook.com/jumpldn1

RUGBY

RUGBY TOTS www.rugbytots.co.uk

EALING TRAILFINDERS RUGBY CLUB Mini's Rugby 6yrs-12yrs www.ealingrugby.co.uk e:membership@ealingrugby.co.uk

FENCING

THE FENCING SCHOOL Making fencing more accessible for children.

If you would like your child to improve their co-ordination, self-respect, self-motivation and fitness do encourage them to try a class with The Fencing School. The school offers term-time classes for all age groups and abilities in Battersea and Chelsea and are taking bookings for the Michaelmas term now.

Contact Mark Kent. e: contact@thefencingschool.com or visit: www.thefencingschool.com

SWIMMING

TUITION SUPPORT

EXPLORE LEARNING Maths & English Tuition Centres. 5 -14 years.

Free Trial session.

Ealing 020 8090 8710 Hayes 020 8561 8530 Westfield London 020 809 01216 www.explorelearning.co.uk

VICTORIA PAGE Private tuition 21/2 - 11 years. t: 07050 246 810

LANGUAGES

ARABIC FOR WOMEN AND CHILDREN Female teacher, native speaker Acorn House College, Southall Private lessons for adults and child groups.

All levels from absolute beginners to university level including GCSE and A level courses.

English Language GCSE support also available. t: 07956 845 053 e: r.i.abdelhadi@gmail.com

VIVIEN BORNEMANN Home tuition. Art, Craft and design. All ages. t: 020 8932 1010.

BABY YOGA & MASSAGE

WEST LONDON BABIES (Ealing) Chiswick Sling Library, Family First Aid session, Breastfeeding Buddy sessions and Pregnant Parents Social Club. Also The Bub Hub which runs every fortnight and is a collective of professionals working together to support parents during the first year of their baby's life.

Subjects covered include baby massage and babywearing, sleep, feeding, managing expectations, returning to work, Mums of More than One, 6-12 month old focus and lots more. t: 020 8090 8710

Swimming Lessons. From 3 years.

Crowne Plaza Heathrow. t: 01753 364 366 www.seriouslyfun.com

Arabic for Women and Children Families welcome – Goal Oriented • Dynamic • Innovative • Effective • Native Female Teacher (& mother of 3!)

Call Reem on

07956 845 053

SWIMMING NATURE Teaching babies, children and adults the fundamentals skills required to improve water confidence and learn to swim. For 25 years our hands-on approach has helped students reach their goals faster.

Swimming Nature deliver lessons in Kensington, Hammersmith & Marble Arch.

For more details visit: www.swimmingnature.com t: 03445 040506

“HOME TUITION” FULLY QUALIFIED TUITION IN ART, CRAFTS AND DESIGN Help with exams for school, portfolio’s for college, or, just for fun!!

ALL AGES WELCOME

Contact: Vivien Bornemann 020 8932 1010

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Educating your child about Social Media

During the primary school years, there is a tendency to want to bury your head in the sand when it comes to the issues and challenges of mobile phone use and social media. If you have children under 10, you may feel you don’t need to pay attention to this yet. However, by Years 5 and 6 many of your children’s peers will start to actively use apps like Snapchat and Instagram and you need to start to understand how to help your child navigate the online world.

The legal age for children to use social sites like Facebook, Instagram, Musical.ly and Snapchat is 13. But, according to a report by the Children’s Commissioner, around 75% of 10 to 12 year olds have a social media account. The study 10 Families west London

makes sobering reading stating that children face a ‘cliff edge’ when it comes to using social media when they go to secondary school.

Getting comments and likes on their posts becomes a priority, especially when their whole class are now using mobile devices and have social media accounts. They become more concerned about how they look and feel anxious about staying connected at all times. FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) becomes much more prevalent.

Class WhatsApp groups and the like mean that whilst your child has their phone they are connected to their peers 24/7. This is the equivalent of having the “noise” of the playground with them at all times. It makes it impossible for children to leave

behind the social interactions of the day, including any negative ones, and switch off emotionally.

It means your child is at risk of being negatively impacted by any hurtful throwaway remarks or comments made by their peers which may not even have been intended to be hurtful. Social posts without accompanying tone, facial expression and gesture are more likely to be interpreted negatively or the meaning questioned than words delivered face to face. In short, you need to set limits on social interaction if your child is going to remain sane and grounded.

“...FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) becomes much more prevalent....”

September 2018

Here are some things to consider before your child becomes active on social: Explore the privacy settings on all the apps your children will use and explain how they work.

Make sure their accounts aren’t public and are only available to their friends.

Explain they should only friend or follow people they know on all their social media accounts.

Stress that it is crucial for them to tell you if someone they don’t know is trying to contact them.

Explain not everyone is who they say they are online.

Remind them they can block people they don’t know or users who are giving them unwanted attention (including their peers).

There are many things your children should not see on the internet. Ensure your children feel comfortable talking about

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By Claire Winter what they have seen online or things that have been sent to them. Conversations need to be open and frank because sexual and violent content can only ever be a few clicks away.

Follow them or add them as a friend on your social accounts, so you can see what they are doing. Many parents make this a condition before allowing their child to have an app, especially if they are younger.

If you are not on the social platform, explain that you will want access to their account to see what they are doing (actually follow through on this).

Some people may feel this is an intrusion on their privacy, but my personal view is that young teenagers need some supervision.

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Tell them not to share private information about themselves, like where they go to school or their address.

Remind them not to post, snap or chat about something that they don’t want to be shared or seen by a wider audience.

Remind them pictures can be captured by screenshot and shared with people they don’t know.

Tell them that bullying should not be tolerated in real life or cyberspace. If they are being bullied or see someone being bullied, tell them to tell a trusted adult.

Limit how long they can be online. Put the Wi-Fi on a timer or set a daily limit of time for how long they can be on their device.

September 2018

As parents, we need to lead by example, so limit the time you spend on social platforms when you are with your child. Accept that your child is bound to make some mistakes on social media.

The key is to have an open dialogue with them about it so they can ask for advice if things go wrong and learn how to create healthy boundaries around their online activities.

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Making the BEST of Open Days This autumn, state and independent schools will be opening their doors to prospective pupils and their parents to give them a flavour of life at their school.

Claire Winter has the lowdown on how to get the best out of these Open Days and tours.

What is an Open Day? School open days help you decide what school you want your child to go to. During an open day, prospective parents are shown around the school, often on a school day, to give them a flavour of the working life of the school and the school environment. You will be able to see the children in lesson and talk to the teachers and pupils.

Sometimes pupils are given the task of showing parents around

the school. This is a great opportunity to ask them how they enjoy being at the school.

How settled, relaxed and confident these children are can give you an idea of how happy the children are there. Usually, the head teacher or a senior member of staff also gives a talk which includes a general overview of the school and its values and ethos. This is often followed by a presentation by the head of admissions or the relevant head of the section of the school (for example, head of reception, or sixth form).

When Are They Held?

State schools generally hold Open Days in September and October aimed at children and families looking for a school place for the following year. It’s a good idea to start looking a year

By Claire Winter

in advance. So if your child is starting school, start looking at schools when they are three.

If you are looking for secondary school places, start looking in year 5 (when your child is nine or ten). You can then revisit the schools you are most interested in with your child the following year.

Independent schools often hold Open Days throughout the Autumn and Spring terms.

They can have waiting lists for Reception-age children or require children to take a schoolspecific 7+ or 11+ exam to gain a place, so you need find out the criteria for entry to the school and visit well in advance.

How are Open Days Organised?

Schools organise Open Evenings as well as days to allow working parents to visit the school too. Some schools (mainly independent) hold Open Days on a Saturday. All schools put a lot of care and organisation into the events and they all want to show their school in the best light. However, there may be a lot of people attending so do be sure to turn up on time and follow the school’s directions during the event.

Tips for Visiting an Open Day Take your child with you.

There is no point in falling in love with a school only to find your child does not want to go there.

What is your general feeling about the school? Your gut reaction is very important.

Do the pupils look happy and engaged?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Make sure you ask the pupils what they think of the school.

Don’t make decisions on 12 Families west London

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individual teachers. They often move on and large departments have a variety of teachers that will rotate every year to teach your child a particular subject.

If your child has a particular interest in a subject, make sure you visit the department and look at the kind of work they will be doing.

What extra-curricular activities do they have?

Are there clubs that will engage your child and allow them to pursue a broad range of interests?

While exam results aren’t everything, every parent wants their child to do well. Academic performance is a top priority for many families. It’s a good idea to see how the school is performing compared to other local schools, using exam league tables and Ofsted reports.

If, after the all your initial visits, you are still undecided, go back and visit the schools on your shortlist again during a normal working day.

Finally, in making your decision, don’t be afraid to trust your instincts; you know your child and you are best placed to ascertain what is right for them.

If your child is older, do take account of their preferences too and include them in the decision making process.

The best decision will undoubtedly be the one you all agree on.

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School Open Day Dates School Address Eaton Square Upper School 106 Piccadilly, Mayfair W1J 7NL

Age 11-18

Dates 20 Sept, 16 Oct, 21 Nov

Contact details www.eatonsquareupper.school registrar@eatonsquaremayfair.com

Portland Place School

9-18

13 Sept, 1 Nov 5-7pm 22 Sept, 17 Nov 10am-12noon Tours: 3 Oct, 5, 13. 28 Nov

020 7307 8700 www.portland-place.co.uk admin@portland-place.co.uk

Southbank International School 63-65 Portland Place, W1B 1QR (Westminster Campus)

11-18

27 Sept, 21 Nov 9.30-11am.

By appointment

020 7243 3803 www.southbank.org admissions@southbank.org

Hyde Park Nursery The Long Garden, Albion Street W2 2AX and Pre-Preparatory School

2-11

4 Oct 9.30am Nov 9.30am (Taster Morning)

020 7262 1190 www.hydeparkschool.co.uk admissions@hydeparkschool.co.uk

International School of London

139 Gunnersbury Avenue, W3 8LG

3-8

By appointment

020 8992 5823 www.isllondon.org

Pembridge Hall

18 Pembridge Square W2 4EH

4-11G

By appointment

020 7229 0121 www.pembridgehall.co.uk contact@pembridgehall.co.uk

Arts Educational Schools London

Cone Ripman House, 14 Bath Road W4 1LY 11-18

Year 7-11: 26 Sept, 6pm] Sixth form: 25 Sept, 6pm

020 8987 6600 · www.artsed.co.uk pupils@artsed.co.uk

Orchard House School

16 Newton Grove, W4 1LB

3-11

11 Oct, 9.30-11.30am

020 8742 8544 www.orchardhs.org.uk info@orchardhs.org.uk

Heathfield House School

Heathfield Gardens, W4 4JU

4-11

By appointment

0208 994 3385 www.heathfieldhouse.co.uk

Chiswick and Bedford Park Preparatory School

Priory House, Priory Avenue, Chiswick, London W4 1TX

3-7B

By appointment 3-11G

020 8994 1804 www.cbppschool.co.uk info@cbppschool.co.uk

The Falcons Pre-Prep School for Boys

2 Burnaby Gardens, Chiswick W4 3DT

3-7B

By appointment

020 8747 8393 www.falconschool.com admin@falconschool.com

Clifton Lodge School

8 Mattock Lane, Ealing, W5 5BG

3-13

6 Oct, 10am-12noon

020 8579 3662 www.cliftonlodgeschool.co.uk admissions@cliftonlodgeschool.co.uk

Durston House

12 Castlebar Road, Ealing W5 2DR

4-13B

11, 12 Oct Introductory morning 13 Oct 9.30 – 11am

020 8991 6532 www.durstonhouse.org info@durstonhouse.org

St Benedict’s School

Junior School and Nursery (age 3-11) 5 Montpelier Avenue, Ealing, W5 2XP Senior School and Sixth Form (age 11-18) 54 Eaton Rise, Ealing W5 2ES

3-18

Senior School Open Morning: 20 Sept, Nursery & Junior School Open Morning: 25 Sept, Sixth Form Open Evening: 11 Oct, Whole School Open Morning: 6 Oct,

Book a place on the website or arrange a personal visit with the Registrar, Louise Pepper, on 020 8862 2254 www.stbenedicts.org.uk

Harvington Prep School

20 Castlebar Road Ealing W5 2DS

3-4 co-ed 2-18G

By appointment

0208 997 1583 www.harvingtonschool.com admin@harvingtonschool.com

St Augustine’s Priory

Hillcrest Road, Ealing W5 2JL

2-3 co-ed (Nursery) 3-18G

Open day: 13 Oct, 10-12 noon

020 8997 2022 www.sapriory.com admissions@sapriory.com

Barbara Speake Stage School

East Acton Lane W3 7EG

4-16

By appointment

020 8743 1306 www.barbaraspeake.com speakekids3@aol.com

Latymer Prep School

36 Upper Mall, Hammersmith W6 9TA

7-11

Open days throughout the Autumn Term Telephone for an appointment

0845 638 5700 www.latymerprep.org/open-mornings registrar@latymerprep.org

Latymer Upper School

King Street, Hammersmith W6 9LR

11-18

15 Sept, 6 Oct, 11+ entrance only. (children in Year 6). Tickets required Contact the Admissions Office

0845 638 5721 www.latymer-upper.org registrar@latymer-upper.org.uk

St Paul’s Girls School

Brook Green W6 7BS

11-18G

11+ entry: 27 Sept, 5pm 6 Oct, 9am and 11.15am 29 Oct, 5pm

020 7605 4882 www.spgs.org admissions@spgs.org

56-58 Portland Place W1B 1NJ

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School

Address

Age

Dates

Contact details

Godolphin and Latymer School Iffley Road W6 0PG

11-18G

For 11+ entry: 20, 26 Sept, 16 Oct, 4.45 - 7 pm 6th Form- 4 Oct, 4.45pm

020 8741 1936 www.godolphinandlatymer.com registrar@godolphinandlatymer.com

Hawkesdown House

27 Edge Street W8 7PN

3-8B

By appointment

020 7727 9090 www.hawkesdown.co.uk

The Lloyd Williamson School

12 Telford Road W10 5SH

6 monthsto 14 yrs

By appointment

020 8962 0345 www.lloydwilliamson.co.uk

Bassett House School

60 Bassett Road W10 6JP

3-11

5 Oct, 9.30-11am

020 8969 0313 www.bassetths.org.uk

Notting Hill Preparatory School 95 Lancaster Rd, W11 1QQ

4-13

By appointment

020 7221 0727 www.nottinghillprep.com admin@nottinghillprep.com

Southbank International School 95 Lancaster Rd, W11 1QQ (Kensington Campus) W11 3BU

3-11

5 Oct, 9.30-11am By appointment

020 7243 3803 www.southbank.org admissions@southbank.org

Avenue House School

70 The Avenue, Ealing W13 8LS

3-11

Individual tours by appointment

020 8998 9981 www.avenuehouse.org school@avenuehouse.org

Notting Hill and Ealing High School (GDST)

26 St Stephens Road, W13 8HH (Junior)

4-18G Entry at 4+ 7+, 11+ and 16+

Junior: 4+ and 7+ (Parents Only) Booking essential.

20 Sept, 10.15am Admissions (Miss Lauren Smith) 15 Oct 1.15am, 16 Oct, 10.15am 020 8991 2165 Senior: (Parents Only) www.nhehs.gdst.net 25 Sept, 10.45am enquiries@nhehs.gdst.net 8 Oct, 10.45am, 8 Nov at 10.45am Senior School Open Evening: Parents & girls welcome - no booking 17 Oct, 4.30pm. Sixth Form: 9 Oct, 6.00pm

Hyde Park Preparatory School and Nursery

24 Elvaston Place, SW7 5NL Middx HA1 3NU

5-11

4 Oct, 9.30am 29 Nov, 9.30am (Taster Morning)

020 7225 3131 www.hydeparkschool.co.uk/preparatory registrar@hydeparkschool.co.uk

Norland Place School

162-166 Holland Park Avenue W11 4UH

4-8B 4-11G

By appointment

020 7603 9103 www.norlandplace.com office@norlandplace.com

Orley Farm School

South Hill Avenue, Harrow on the Hill Middx HA1 3NU

4-13

6 Oct, 10am-12pm or Wednesday morning by appointment

Booking essential. www.orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk registrar@orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk

St. Helen's College

Parkway, Hillingdon, Middlesex UB10 9JX

2-11

School At Work Open Morning: 30 Oct, 9am - 12pm.

By appointment only.

Visits may be booked by telephone

01895 234371 www.sthelenscollege.com info@sthelenscollege.com Upper School: 01895 234 371 Lower School 01895 272 967

Harrow School

5 High Street, Harrow on the Hill Middlesex HA1 3HP

13-18B

3, 10 Nov 9am-1pm

020 8872 8007 www.harrowschool.org.uk admissions@harrowschool.org.uk

Quainton Hall School

Hindes Road, Harrow, HA1 1RX

2.5-13B 2.5-11G

22 Sept, 10am-12.30pm

020 8427 1304 www.quaintonhall.org.uk admin@quaintonhall.org.uk

Shiplake College Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire (Boarding and Day School) RG9 4BW

11-18B 16-18G

Whole School: 14 Oct 9.30am - 12.00pm

Book to attend at: www.shiplake.org.uk/opendays

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School

Butterfly Lane, Elstree, Herts WD6 3AF

5-18B

By appointment (01727 873 632 for pre-prep open day)

020 8266 1700 www.habsboys.org.uk office@habsboys.org.uk

Haberdashers’ School for Girls

Aldenham Road, Elstree, Herts WD6 3BT

4-18G

Senior School in action: 19, 27 Sept, 3, 16 Oct, 8, 15, 19 Nov Sixth Form: 8 Oct, 2-4pm By appointmentI

020 8266 2302 (Junior School and Sixth form entry) 020 8266 2338 (age 11+) www.habsgirls.org.uk admissions@habsgirls.org.uk

Eton College

Windsor, Berkshire SL4 6DW

13-18B

By appointment

01753 671000 www.etoncollege.com

The school where your child will spend most of their teen years will have a huge influence on their development and character.

Your choices are important - which is where Open Days come in. Take your son or daughter with you; they will see things through a different set of eyes, and their opinion matters.

Not all open day dates were available when we went to press: check the websites of the schools you're interested in for more information and where necessary, to book first. familiesonline.co.uk

September 2018

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Independent or State Education for YOUR child?

Olivia Malaure talks to Frances Delaney, a parent whose child has experienced both types of school.

If you are fortunate enough to be able to choose where your child will go to school, then it might help to look at the bigger picture and leap forward twelve years.

Recent statistics show that students from state schools out-perform students from independent (private) schools at university. However, before you allocate your tuition fees to more leisurely pursuits, consider that these statistics also show that students from independent schools are more likely to gain a place at university in the first place.

Right now, the idea of your young child reaching university age may seem unimaginable, but it pays to do your research early. And, when you do, it’s hard to ignore the fiery discussion about the moral, financial and practical issues

that catapult from any search engine as you try to weigh up the ‘pros and cons’ of state versus independent education.

I spoke to Frances Delaney, a parent who made the decision to move her daughter from a state to an independent school at the beginning of Year 6.

“Why did you make this change?”

Firstly, I wasn’t confident that my daughter would get into our preferred, local state secondary school. I also wanted her to attend a school with an integrated sixth form, rather than have to transition to a large college later on. Crucially

though, my daughter’s teacher, who I really respected, suggested she was playing up in class and was possibly bored because in Year 5, along with a number of other children, she’d actually reached Year 6 grades.

I wanted my child to reach her full potential but her teacher couldn’t help further as her priority had to be improving the grades of those children who were under-performing.

“Was it an easy decision?”

No actually, it was very difficult.

My partner was politically opposed to private education we both went to state schools.

But we’d had the experience of our elder son completing his education at a large state college where he just didn’t “fit in.” He felt he didn’t do as well as he could have done at a smaller private school. It took my partner a lot of convincing, but I wanted our daughter to have the best educational experience possible and my gut feeling was that she would perform better at an independent school. We were in a position where we could afford the fees and so we decided to move her.

“Looking back, do you feel you made the right decision?”

That’s a difficult question and I don’t have a definitive answer.

She is happy and confident and doing well at school, so that is very positive. She is still in touch with her friends from state school and it seems they’re also happy and doing well too, so it’s hard to tell what would have happened had she remained in the state sector.

“Has your daughter experienced more academic pressure at her new school?”

16 Families west London

September 2018

Yes, and the pressure comes from both parents and the school. But, truthfully, I’m paying to ensure that she reaches her full potential and so pressure is part of that. My daughter thrives in that type of environment but I can see that it could be stressful for children who aren’t meeting expectations, or who excel in one particular subject area rather than being an academic all-rounder. Having said I would imagine that children in good state secondary schools are also under a lot of academic pressure too.

At my daughter’s school, there is not an automatic entry into the sixth form so there is constant discussion about what she can achieve and how she will achieve it. Obviously, this isn’t the case in all independent schools.

“Do you have any advice for parents who are having difficulty making a decision between a good local state school and a private school?”

Look at the environment in which your child thrives and explore how they learn. Think about how they would deal with regular tests and exams. If they are at senior school level, find out what subjects are on offer in the sixth form, and if they are in line with your child’s interests. Some state schools offer a wider variety of subjects than some smaller private schools with limited more resources. The advantage of an independent primary school is that you are training your child for the private system and this training has its advantages. In my opinion the kids who are attending independent schools are not better or brighter, just more prepared. familiesonline.co.uk

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Image credit: Perform

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What’s On MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES BRITISH MUSEUM

WC1B 3DG www.britishmuseum.org DIGITAL WORKSHOPS Takes place at weekends and school holidays on a variety of themes. Free, 11am-4pm, for ages 7+ (unless stated).

29 Sept LITTLE FEET: ANIMAL SOUNDS Become a little explorer on a sonic animal adventure. Hear the sounds of the animals in the Museum and create your own digital noises! For under 5s from 11am-3.3pm.

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM

SE1 6HZ www.iwm.org.uk EXHIBITIONS: HOLOCAUST Film, photographs and a large number of rare artefacts document the history of the Nazi persecution of the Jews and other groups before and during the Second World War. For ages 14+ A FAMILY IN WARTIME Explores the lives of William and Alice Allpress and their ten children and what life in London was like during the war.

SECRET WAR The clandestine world of espionage, covert operations and the work of Britain’s Special Forces.

FIRST WORLD WAR Discover the story of the war - Over 1,300 objects including weapons, uniforms, diaries, letters and souvenirs, will be on display as well as a recreated trench with periscopes and a dug-out, along with a soundscape and projection will evoke what daily life was like for the troops.

LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM ACTON DEPOT

W3 9BQ www.ltmuseum.co.uk/whats-on/museumdepot/open-weekends

22, 23 Sept MOVING LONDON OPEN WEEKEND The London Transport Museum’s Depot in Acton, west London, will throw open its doors, giving visitors the chance to explore a treasure-trove of over 320,000 artefacts from London’s transport history. In celebration of the Year of Engineering, the event will highlight the inventions, innovations and people behind the story of transport in London. Visitors will discover the amazing feats of engineering that have shaped the capital’s iconic transport network through a jam-packed programme of talks, tours, demonstrations and fun family activities. Children can take a ride on a miniature railway, get crafty in a make and take activity for little engineers and join an interactive workshop to learn how to build a track and sequence of signals.

11am-5pm.

Moving London open weekend at THE LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM - ACTON DEPOT NATIONAL GALLERY

WC2N 5DN www.nationalgallery.org.uk Every Sun FAMILY SUNDAYS Activities designed for families to enjoy and learn together, 11am and 3pm.

MAGIC CARPET STORYTELLING For children aged 2-5. Sundays 10.30-11am and 11.30am–12pm. Fly away on the magic carpet, coming to land in front of a different painting each day.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk Until 16 Sept EXHIBITION: SENSATIONAL BUTTERFLIES Escape to the tropical butterfly house and see the crawling caterpillar transform into the beautiful butterfly. Marvel at the behaviour and sheer diversity of these incredible organisms, usually found in the tropical forests of Central and South America, Africa and Asia.

From 13 Jul LIFE IN THE DARK Leave daylight behind and put your senses to the test in this illuminating exhibition. Kids go free.

Until Dec THE WIDER EARTH This is a play about the story of a young Charles Darwin, on HMS Beagle’s daring voyage to the far side of the world. Discover the gripping story behind one of the most important discoveries in history. For age 8+ Every weekend INVESTIGATE FOR FAMILIES Explore hundreds of real nature specimens that form the evidence Museum scientists use in their daily work. Drop-in, 11am-5pm.

Every Sun until 23 Dec ADVENTURE TO

Please check before you head out to make sure your Days Out event has not changed after publication of your Families West London magazine...

18 Families west London

THE DEEP Kids will dive through a reef, come face-to-face with a giant squid and see if they have what it takes to survive 3,000 metres below the surface. For age 6+.

7 Sept DINO SNORES Ever wondered what goes on at the Natural History Museum at night? From 7pm till morning, torchlit trails through the museum, live animal shows and more. For ages 7-11.

SCIENCE MUSEUM

SW7 2DD www.sciencemuseum.org.uk WONDERLAB: THE STATOIL GALLERY The UK's biggest interactive science gallery is filled with specially-commissioned exhibits and artworks, live science shows, explosive demonstrations and immersive experiences led by the museum's talent team of science communicators. Day pass £8 adult, £6 child, £22.50 families.

OUR LIVES IN DATA Information about our lives is increasingly being captured, analysed and used, transforming the world around us.

From toys that can understand a child's personality and smarter public transport planning to new genomic technology that is helping uncover the causes of rare diseases and cancer, big data's invisible revolution has begun. Ages 8 to adult, free.

7 Sept ASTRONIGHT A special overnight event for 7-13 year olds featuring exciting hands-on workshops, science shows, and a sleepover at the museum.

DAYS OUT BRITISH LIBRARY

NW1 2DB www.bl.uk 22 Sept FESTIVAL OF TREASURES FAMILY DAY Take part in a fun and creative family day inspired by the British Library Treasures Gallery. Join us to make, look, touch, sign and explore. Fully accessible for

September 2018

families with deaf children, parents and carers. Free, drop-in, all ages. 12-4pm.

CHISWICK HOUSE AND GARDEN

W4 2RP www.chgt.org.uk 23 Sept CHISWICK HOUSE DOG SHOW A fun day out for all the family. With classes ranging from Naughtiest Dog to Prettiest Bitch and from My Dog’s Got Talent to Best Veteran, every dog is welcome - big, small, pedigree, mutt, young and old - it’s a celebration of the canine world!

CUTTY SARK

SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark Every weekend: CUTTY SARK CHARACTERS Come aboard to hear Cutty Sark’s incredible stories brought to life by characters from the ship’s past. Suitable for ages 3+ Every Weds TODDLER TIME Bring your little sailors along for songs, stories and playtime on board. 10-11.30am for ages 4 and under.

FULHAM PALACE

SW6 6EA www.fulhampalace.org every Mon and Tues THE PALACE EXPLORERS A weekly parent/carer and toddler sessions for children aged 2-4. £3 per child, which includes a drink and healthy snack.

15 Sept LITTLE GREEN FINGERS Explore and learn how vegetables and flowers grow.

Practice sowing, planting, caring for and harvesting produce and flowers in the Walled Garden.10.30am-12.

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What’s On harvesting produce and flowers in the Walled Garden.10.30am-12.

29 Sept FORESHORE FESTIVAL A fun family day of river themed archaeology.

Explore a fascinating wealth of local history with guided river walks, then meander back to the Palace for a chance to take part in a host of river-related activities, examine finds and capture your day with a family photo in historical costume. 11.30am-4.30pm.

HAMPTON COURT PALACE

KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace THE MAGIC GARDEN Experience the legendary world of the Tudor tournament in this imaginative play garden setting. Inspired by the palace’s past, the Magic Garden is located in Henry VIII’s former tiltyard where Tudor tournaments were once held. Discover something new around every twist and turn in an immersive world populated by mythical beasts, including a 25m dragon! Take the family to become Tudor Knights, besiege the battlements, storm the Tiltyard Towers and explore a mysterious secret grotto.

Open from 10am-5.30pm.

2 Sept STORYTIME SUNDAYS Lively, interactive storytelling sessions based on well-known children’s books which can be linked to Hampton Court’s magnificent history.

HOLLAND PARK ECOLOGY CENTRE

W8 6LU www.rbkc.gov.uk/subsites/wildlife.aspx 8 Sept STORYTELLING WALK Listen to stories to awaken your senses as they are woven along a walk through the secret corners of Holland Park. This interactive family activity will encourage everyone to create and share their own stories of wonder.

2-4pm. To book a place email: cycling@rbkc.gov.uk or phone 020 7361 4259 13 Sept AUTUMN BAT WALK Join an expert from the London Bat Group and delve into the nocturnal world of bats. Learn about their natural history in an informative talk before searching for them within Holland Park equipped with bat detectors. 7-8.30pm.

22 Sept AUTUMN LEAVES: WILDLIFE AREA OPEN DAY Stroll around the woodland, discovering more about the trees and signs of autumn. There will also be an opportunity to take part in seasonal craft activities. Drop-in. 12-4pm.

Bright Sparks at the LYRIC HAMMERSMITH KEW GARDENS

TW9 3AE www.kew.org HERE BE DRAGONS Follow the Dragon Trail and hunt for dragon sculptures around the Gardens.

ODDS FARM PARK

HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk A FABULOUS DAY OUT AT THE FARM! Meet the farmers and get close to the animals in the hands-on area and in the large undercover animal barns. There is a massive adventure play area with a four lane astra slide, two drop slides, a netted area with zig zag chicanes and tunnels, swinging ropes and much more. Also a special Toddler and Under 5’s areas.

3-30 Sept RARE BREEDS MONTH

Learn and celebrate the farm’s rare breeds by completing the special Trail to earn a treat.

THEATRE AND CONCERTS BECK THEATRE

UB3 2UE www.becktheatre.org.uk 13 Sept BRING YOUR OWN BABY A funny, friendly afternoon of top comedy, and… you can bring your own baby!

Soft flooring, toys, buggy parking and baby changing all provided so that your baby is happy and you can relax.

29, 30 Sept PEPPA PIG’S ADVENTURES Join Peppa as she gets ready to go on an exciting camping trip to the woods with George and her school friends, including Pedro Pony, Suzy Sheep and Gerald Giraffe.

CAMBRIDGE THEATRE

WC2H 9HU www.matildathemusical.com Booking until Feb 2019 MATILDA THE MUSICAL The Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Roald Dahl’s magical story about a girl with extraordinary powers.

LYRIC HAMMERSMITH

W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk 8 Sept PENGUIN Ben is delighted when he rips open his present. Inside is a penguin.

Will penguin ever speak? And when he does, was it really worth the wait? For ages 2-7.

Wildlife Area Open Day at the HOLLAND PARK ECOLOGY CENTRE

20 Families west London

15 Sept BRIGHT SPARKS Links and Rex are the left and right sides of the brain.

September 2018

Watch these two complete opposites get their wires crossed as they strive to find ways to work and play together.

For ages 3-7.

22 Sept JUNGLE BOOK Fearless and free, Mowgli the ‘man-cub,’ finds fun and friendship as he goes on wild adventures in the dangerous world he inhabits and learns to live by the Law of the Jungle. For ages 4-11.

29 Sept SLEEPYHEAD It’s been a long day for Dad and he’s tired. He’s usually got some tricks up his sleeve to send Baby off to sleep. But tonight, Baby has other ideas...

For ages 2-5.

PUPPET THEATRE BARGE

W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com Until 30 Sept LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD Deborah Jones retells the popular story with poetic beauty, humour and a new twist to the tale. It is presented with marionettes and shadow puppets, original music, lighting and effects. For ages 3+

SOUTHBANK CENTRE

SE1 8PX www.southbankcentre.co.uk Until 30 Sept UNDERBELLY FESTIVAL An amazing line-up of entertainment for all ages, now in its tenth year. Family highlights include Circus Abyssinia, SOAP, Arr We There Yet, Children Are Stinky, Aliens Love Underpants, Metta's Little Mermaid, Monski Mouse, plus comedy and variety from Dick & Dom. See: www.underbellyfestival.com for the full line up.

Every Fri RUG RHYMES Join the National Poetry Library puppets, Federico and Firebird, on their poem rug to find out what rhymes with rug in a short session of nursery rhymes, poems and rhyming stories for the very young. For under 5s and their carers.

Free.

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Want to GET FIT with your family?

8 Sept THE ADVENTURES OF SNIGEL A free interactive adventure with Snigel the inquisitive snail (leading UK disabled dancer Caroline Bowditch). Play in Snigel’s bubbles, join them for a picnic, help them clean their shell and learn some snaily dance moves.

29 Sept FAMILY GAMELAN TASTER SESSION Play in a Javanese gamelan percussion orchestra. For ages 6+

THEATRE ROYAL DRURY LANE

WC2B 5JF www.reallyuseful.com/theatres/theatreroyal-drury-lane Until 20 Oct 42ND STREET the song and dance, American dream fable of Broadway.

Young Peggy Sawyer is fresh off the bus from small-town America and just another face in the chorus line on Broadway’s newest show. But when the leading lady gets injured, Peggy might just have the shot at stardom she's always dreamed of...

For age 5+

UNICORN THEATRE

SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com 18 Sept-27 Oct MOUTH OPEN, STORY JUMP OUT Polarbear makes things up.

This is about the moment that started it all, and how one little decision set off a chain reaction that changed his life forever.

International assassins, secret codes, dog-eating boa constrictors and more emerge when a father disappears and a boy discovers a talent for telling tales. For ages 8-11.

CONCERTS BACH TO BABY

www.bachtobaby.com/londonnorth All concerts at 10.30am.

26 Sept in Kensington (Christ Church, Victoria Road, W8) 17 Sept in Notting Hill (St. John's Church, Lansdowne Crescent, W11) 21 Sept in Chiswick (St. Michael and All Angels, Bath Road, W4)

ROYAL ALBERT HALL

SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com Every Tues and Weds STORYTELLING AND MUSIC SESSIONS A series of sessions for babies and toddlers aged 0-4, to encourage interaction between parents/carers and their little ones using musical instruments, singing, movement and stories. 10am and 11.30am, £5.

WIGMORE HALL

W1U 2PB www.wigmore-hall.org.uk 12 Sept CHAMBER TOTS: AUTUMN Music-making workshop for children aged from 1 - 2. 10.15 and 11.45am.

15 Sept FAMILY CONCERT: FOLK UP NORTH A concert exploring Scottish folk music, featuring a specially commissioned film projected live onstage. This concert delves into the mysterious stories of Scottish folklore and the unique soundworld of Scottish traditional music. 11am for ages 5+ 28 Sept CRYING OUT LOUD Informal concerts for parents or carers and their babies up to 1 year old.

familiesonline.co.uk

Encouraging your family to

starting with two or three exercise

Focus on Togetherness

marking these on your calendar.

your relationship as you exercise.

health problems such as

when you’re going to exercise so

with one another or be better than

diabetes and mental conditions

times.

to talk, share experiences and

Make it Interesting

Something as simple as asking

exercise is important in order to keep them fit and healthy and

to protect them against serious cardiovascular disease, type 2 like depression.

Inactive children are likely to

become even less active during

adulthood, but you can help

prevent this by making family

activities and fitness a part of

your child’s life at an early age.

By making time to exercise

“appointments” each week and Make sure your children know

they don’t make plans during those

or angry, can go a long way

It doesn’t have to be!

Create a Schedule

things up and keep them

what form of exercise you’ll

or running - in a different park or

Book Family Classes

dancing video game. You could

are offered for parents and kids

neighbourhood. You could try a

play a working-out video game like

Pokemon Go or ‘Train like a Jedi’

You could even sign up for a

a set exercise schedule. Consider

undertake. This will make them

feel included and important.

exercise programme is expecting things to just fall into place.

your kids to take turns choosing

could listen to fun music while you

play along video on:

Unfortunately, most families need

towards opening a good

discussion. You can also allow

there are ways you can spice

One of the biggest mistakes

families make when starting an

that day, or what made them sad

Whatever your exercise of choice,

exercise. You could go walking -

that happen:

grow together as a family.

can be incredibly boring.

kids whilst helping them form

Here are some tips for making

each other. Instead, use this time

your kids what made them laugh

together but find that exercise

interesting. For example, you

healthy habits for life.

Your goal shouldn’t be to compete

Many families want to exercise

together as a family, you can

spend fun, quality time with your

Make sure you focus on building

www.nhs.uk/change4life

dance class together. Don’t be

afraid to get creative with your exercise options.

September 2018

Find out about fitness classes that together, such as swimming,

aerobics or yoga. These exercises help strengthen the body and

mind, and doing them as a family

provides another way for you to all spend quality time together.

More info at: www.nhs.uk/ change4life/activities

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Go WILD this Autumn!

Autumn; a time for playing in crisp, colourful leaves and raiding conker trees.

A time when fields are woven with glistening spiders’ webs on misty mornings and wild food is plentiful in the hedgerows and woods

Just because summer’s over, there’s no need to abandon the great outdoors. There’s a wealth of fun activities you and your children can enjoy as the temperatures start to cool.

Here are just a few ideas:

Make Leaf Mobiles Celebrate Autumn’s amazing colours by creating a brightly coloured mobile.

You will need: twine, scissors, and a large needle.

Collect colourful fallen leaves cones, wild nuts and seeds and a stick in the woods or the park.

Cut the twine into lengths of about 75cm/30in.

Tie a cone or an acorn to one end of each length of twine.

Thread leaves and seeds along the twine.

Tie the leaf strings along a stick and hang your mobile up in the autumn sunshine.

Go Wild Foraging Discover wild foods in local hedgerows and woods; look out for nettles, blackberries, raspberries, elderberries, rosehips, hazelnuts, walnuts, crab apples and wild herbs.

Gather some berries, nuts and leaves. Make sure you know what’s safe to eat though before you give your permission for your children to eat what they’ve collected!

22 Families west London

By Jo Schofield and Fiona Danks

Hold a Wild Bake-Off Challenge What can you make from wild foods and a few basic ingredients like flour, salt, milk, butter, sugar and eggs?

You will need: basic cooking equipment eg: a griddle, frying pan and Dutch oven (a cast iron cooking pot with lid), measuring cups, knives, spoons and a mixing bowl.

Make a safe fire in a fire pan or pit or use a barbeque.

You could bake a delicious layer pancake with different fruit in each layer, including elderberries with sloes, crab apples with rosehips, and blackberries with damsons, all cooked with a little water and sugar. Alternatively, a blackberry cake baked in a clay pot or wild herb bread cooked in a Dutch oven among the ashes.

Award prizes for taste, wild presentation and the most creative use of foraged foods!

Make Jam with Wild Fruit Collect some fruit on one of your walks and make some jam.

Weigh and wash the wild fruit and put it in a saucepan with a little water. Bring the fruit to the boil and add the same weight of sugar. Simmer for about one hour or until it sets (does it form a jelly on a cold saucer?). Pour carefully into a warmed jar and put the lid on. Decorate a label with pictures of the fruits and invent a wild name for your jam.

Cover the lid with a large leaf.

Outdoor Halloween For a real Halloween adventure, go to the woods, the park or into the garden after dark for a scary feast, made more festive with wild decorations!

Create: Pumpkin faces - no carving involved, just stick on wild materials with double sided tape or clay to make funny and scary faces.

Leafy decorations - cut coloured leaves into bat shapes and scary faces to decorate a witch’s hat or make leaf bunting.

Leafy lanterns - tie string around jars to make handles. Cut scary faces in colourful leaves and attach them to the jars with elastic bands.

Pumpkin lanterns - carve pumpkins into decorated lanterns and place them in a trail for your friends to follow.

Prepare a warming Halloween feast; cheesy baked potatoes and pumpkin soup, sausages wrapped in chunks of bread, toffee apples or apple tarts, and sweet pumpkin pie.

Set up a Halloween mystery trail with a few scary surprises, perhaps a ghost in the trees and a spider’s web across the path?

Safety Tips When foraging, take care to only collect safe edible fruits and seeds.

September 2018

Choose fruit bushes and trees away from roads Make fires in a fire pan, a fire pit or a barbeque and always supervise children around fire and when cooking, as well as when using nightlights in lanterns and carving pumpkins More about Going Wild Jo Schofield and Fiona Danks of Going Wild are on a mission to inspire everyone to spend more time outside discovering the wonders of the natural world.

Their books are packed with practical ideas to tempt children and families away from screenbased entertainment and escape into the outdoors where the wild world will weave its magic upon them.

These autumn activities are taken from their tenth book: The Wild Year Book, Things to do Outdoors through the Seasons, published by Frances Lincoln in July 2018.

For more information, visit: www.goingwild .net

familiesonline.co.uk

FW123 September 2018_FW121 May-Jun 2018 29/08/2018 11:57 Page 23

Party Listings CRAFTS

Fun with Fimo Clay www.funwithfimoclay.co.uk

DRAMA

Perform Parties Based around a colourful theme, Performs energetic party leaders use a magical mix of songs, games and laughter to create fun-filled, actionpacked parties. t: 0207 255 9120 www.performparties.co.uk

Stagecoach Their themed parties for 4-10 year olds combine drama, dance and singing with a wide range of party games and storytelling all based around your chosen theme. You choose the date and the time and they can come to the venue of your choice.

Stagecoach Kensington: t: 020 8398 8106 Stagecoach Chiswick: t: 020 020 8398 4709

ENTERTAINERS

Adam Ants Parties t: 020 8959 1045 or 07969 121094 e: info@adamantsparties.co.uk www.adamantsparties.co.uk

Boo Boo The Children’s Entertainer t: 07961 355269 www.mr-booboo.co.uk Silly Millie the Clown Parties for 3 - 9 year olds. Funny

familiesonline.co.uk

magic show, puppet’s, party games, silly songs and balloon animals.

Impossible = I am Possible t: 020 7823 8329 or 07939 239 397 www.sillymillietheclown.co.uk

PARTY SUPPLIERS

Birthday Parties at Odds Farm Park For more information including full party terms and conditions and to book please visit: www.oddsfarm.co.uk

VENUES

FUN ON A FARM!

Party Plus They have a wide range of themed party ware available from stock.

For mail order and more visit: www.partyplus.co.uk

CLASSIFIED ADS - PARTIES

MUSIC & MOVEMENT

Blueberry Playsongs Fun, inter-active, musical parties for the under 5’s since 1991!

Guitar-accompanied songs with actions, joining in, instruments, games and dancing. t: 020 8677 6871 e: info@blueberryplaysongs.co.uk

Betty Blythe Specialises in bringing the Tea Service party to your own home or venue of your choice.

They can also host up to 10 in their Vintage Tea room. e: tea@bettyblythe.co.uk www.bettyblythe.co.uk

RUGBY

PARTY PLUS

For all your party needs, Balloons Partyware · Banners · Decorations and much more.

9:30am - 5pm Monday - Saturday.

020 8987 8404 4 Acton Lane Chiswick Park W4 5NB www.partyplus.co.uk www.partiesbypost.co.uk

See all the latest news, views and What’s On listings on our lovely, shiny website: www.famililiesonline.co.uk

Rugby Tots www.rugbytots.co.uk

September 2018

Families west London 23

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