London Surrey Borders
SKILLS TO LAST A LIFETIME
Give your family essential skills and confidence in and around water. Save a spot with Swimbies for babies and toddlers, Better Swim School for kids or swimming lessons for adults.
Learn to swim at Better leisure centres in Reigate and Banstead, Mole Valley and Epsom and Ewell
FOR ALL AGES
London Surrey Borders
Editor: Tamar Pearson
07537 141 998 tamar@families-lsb.co.uk
Design: Rebecca Carr
Printed by: Buxton Press Ltd
Cover image: London-TDK.co.uk
Next issue: March/April
Booking deadline: 14 February
Would you like to advertise your business in our next issue?
Email Tamar for more information. tamar@families-lsb.co.uk
Distributors Wanted
Oxted, Epsom & Redhill Areas
We are looking for someone to distribute our magazine in the Oxted, Epsom and Redhill areas. If you are trustworthy, reliable, have a car and a few hours to spare every two months and would like to earn some extra money then please contact Tamar for full details.
From the editor...
I hope you had a fantastic holiday season and a much-needed break.
On page 4, Inner Space gives us some top tips on how to de clutter to bring new energy into 2025 and London TKD invites you to kick start this new year with 2 weeks for £10 promotion.
As we creep into the other side of winter our team of Junior Reporters share their favorite spots to grab a winter warmer and sweat treats on page 12. We have exiting half-term activities with Polesden Lacey and Godstone Farm and NSS Sports opens a new holiday camp in Epsom.
Many local independent schools invite you to visit in person to see the schools in action at an open event on page 9.
Wishing you the best in 2025.
Tamar
New NSSport holiday activities
NSSport Holiday Activities is the perfect place for your children to have fun! They provide active, affordable, and exciting childcare during the holidays for children aged 5-11.
Their two programmes, NS Stars and NS Strikers, will see your child enjoy their time away from school. Their unique programmes, led by a dedicated, enthusiastic, and highly qualified team, ensure your child can maintain their development and learning through play in a safe and appropriate environment.
Holiday camps run at Auriol Junior School (KT19 0PJ) and Wallace Fields Junior (KT17 3BH) for pupils in Year 1-6 from 8am-6pm over the February half term holidays (17-21 February 2025).
Book at nssport.co.uk or email enquiries@nssport.co.uk
World Book Day 2025
Put Thursday 6 March in your diary for World Book Day and start planning your child’s costume.
Marked in over 100 countries, children and schools get involved by dressing up as their favourite book characters and reading together to celebrate authors, illustrators and reading.
Each year World Book Day releases a brand-new line-up of £1 books and issues tokens that children will be use to choose one of the books for free.
This year’s books include short stories from family favourites Bluey and Paddington Bear for beginning and early reading abilities, a search-and-find story from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler and a selection of poems from the 2022-2024 Children’s Laureate, Joseph Coelho. For more fluent and independent readers, Benjamin Dean captivates young adults with a standalone thriller, while Tom Palmer scores with The Soccer Diaries: Rocky Takes the Lead.
More info: www.worldbookday.com
Let’s kick start this new year together
London TKD have one goal - to build and grow confidence in children through martial arts.
By modernising the traditional martial of Taekwondo, London TKD provide a platform for children to persevere through difficulties, create unforgettable memories and build discipline in their everyday lives.
In your child’s very first class they will begin their black belt programme, which on average takes 3 years to complete. During this time, your child will grow to develop outside of lessons and the highly trained instructors will guide your child to attain their very own black belt.
London TKD instructors are first aid trained and experienced in teaching and character building. London TKD pride themselves in having a safe and all-inclusive atmosphere for every single child to learn and develop in.
For more information call 07553 065 214, email: hello@ london-tkd.co.uk or visit www.london-tkd.co.uk
Host and teach an international student
Hosting students on a language homestay offers an enriching experience for both student and host. Students are given an opportunity to learn English in an authentic environment, as they engage in real-life conversations, gain cultural insights and practise in natural contexts like at family meals and during social interactions and activities.
Hosts can share language and culture in a meaningful way, foster cross-cultural understanding and create connections and friendships with people from around the globe. Hosting also provides a flexible way of earning income from the comfort of your home. As a freelancer, you decide when to work and whom to host, allowing for a work-life balance.
Homestays vary in duration, generally ranging from one to three weeks and typically include private tuition sessions, full-board accommodation and optional activities.
Influent offers full-immersion homestay language programmes abroad for children, teenagers, adults and professionals. If you are thinking of becoming a host teacher, visit www.influentme. com/become-a-host-family
The Big Garden Birdwatch 2025
Get your family involved in the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch and help monitor bird life in the UK. Simply count the birds you see in your garden for one hour between 24 and 26 January. To learn how to take part and for a handy FREE birdwatch guide, visit www.rspb. org.uk/birdwatch
‘Crisis’ in autism care - children wait years for diagnosis
In England, children are enduring lengthy waits for ADHD and autism diagnoses, with some waiting over four years, according to data from the Children’s Commissioner, Dame Rachel de Souza.
This delay is significantly impacting their development and family life. The data reveals that nearly 23% of children with ADHD and 15% with autism faced such delays in community health services.
The government has acknowledged these challenges, committing to a 10-Year Health Plan aimed at reducing waiting times and enhancing support both pre- and post-diagnosis.
Dame Rachel calls for a shift away from diagnosis dependency, urging improvements in mainstream schools and professional training to meet children’s needs effectively. The NHS plans to address the surge in referrals with an expert taskforce, striving to transform care for affected families.
More info: www.bit.ly/AutismCareCrisis
Adult ballet classes for beginners and returners
Ask about a FREE trial class!
Ashtead Ballet believe that dance is for everyone. We all know how important regular exercise is but running or going to the gym is often a solo activity and can be a bit boring.
Joining a ballet class means you get to move to beautiful music while improving your core strength and posture, plus you will meet a new group of like-minded friends. Here’s what some adult dancers say:
‘After twenty years not doing ballet, I really enjoyed the lesson and wished we could have had longer.’
‘My balance has really improved!’
‘Our whole family love the classes!’
FREE TRIAL CLASS plus £5 of the first invoice with this ad.
To find out more visit www.ashteadballetschool.co.uk, call 07947 920343 or email maxine@ashteadballetschool.co.uk
TAP & M ODERN Inspire - Develop - Nurture
nurturing school where everyone is encouraged to reach their own potential. Classes from 3 years to adult.
A few years ago she was so shy and timid and has developed such confidence. You are amazing!
New year’s resolution 2025: Get organised!
As the wrapping paper settles and the ornaments find their way back into storage, it’s the perfect time to restore order to your home.
Undoubtedly, with the arrival of new gifts and items over the festive season, your home may feel a bit cluttered. A New Year declutter and organise will allow you to effortlessly find and appreciate the things that truly bring you joy.
Whether you’re a minimalist or a maximalist, there’s always room for improvement when it comes to organisation. Even if you love the things you own, by letting go of excess and embracing a little more simplicity, you can create a more functional space. An organised environment doesn’t mean you have to get rid of everything, but rather, to prioritise what matters most.
By applying a keen organisational eye, you can celebrate the items you cherish and make sure they are displayed or stored in a way that makes them easy to access and enjoy. Items you love should be admired and celebrated, not hidden away in storage or lost between other things on shelves.
If you’ve always thought about making more room and getting organised but just don’t know where to start, now is the perfect time. Get in touch with Rebecca at The Inner Space for a complimentary consultation. With her expert advice, you can transform your space into a more functional, stress-free environment.
Call Rebecca on 07921054287 email theinnerspace@gmail.com, visit www.theinnerspace.uk or follow on social media @theinnerspace.uk
The importance of music in early childhood and beyond
Music plays a vital role in the development of children, fostering skills and qualities that benefit them throughout life. Starting young is essential for unlocking the full potential of musical education. Early exposure to music helps children develop foundational skills such as rhythm, pitch, and timing, which serve as building blocks for more advanced learning.
Activities like singing, rhythm games, and playing simple instruments enhance language skills, memory and coordination while encouraging creativity and self-expression. These early experiences lay the groundwork for a lifelong appreciation of music and a solid base for future growth. In addition, music enhances academic performance in core subjects like maths, reading, history and art. Rhythms sharpen mathematical thinking, reading music boosts literacy skills and understanding musical history enriches cultural awareness. These benefits are amplified when children start young, allowing time to integrate skills into their broader academic growth.
As children grow, music becomes an avenue for building confidence and discipline. Learning an instrument develops focus and perseverance, while performing in front of otherswhether in a small group or a public concert - helps children overcome stage fright and build resilience.
Structured opportunities, such as the KSM, Music School Performing Arts Programme, provide a supportive environment where children can refine their skills, gain valuable stage experience - joining in choir, and group music lessons which allows children to make friends, learn teamwork, and appreciate collaboration. These experiences often result in lasting friendships, formed in combining creativity, shared goals.
For older children, music opens doors to significant opportunities, such as graded exams, music medals, and 11+ and University scholarships, which highlight their talent and commitment. These achievements, combined with participation in our Music School Programmes, nurture discipline, leadership and creativity - qualities that empower children to embrace possibilities and shape a bright future.
More info: www.kingswoodsurreymusic.co.uk
How we learn and why we play!
Children in Banstead Prep School’s pre-school and nursery benefit from the whole school focus on shaping character by understanding how we learn and embracing a play-based approach to learning through curiosity and exploration.
The school’s eight ‘learner powers’ help children develop skills for success as they progress through school and into the future workplace. The newly enhanced Early Years Centre supports child led learning within the structure of a school day and a great start to the educational journey.
You can visit the Early Years centre at the next Saturday morning Open House event on Saturday 25 January - drop-in as a family and stay as long as you want to look around and chat to staff while children engage with learning activities in the classroom and explore the outside space.
More info: www.bansteadprep.com
A small school with great ambition
In September, Elmhurst welcomed girls for the first time in its 150 year history. With small class sizes, specialist teaching and accelerated learning and booster classes, Elmhurst is a small school with great ambition. Academic sights are firmly set on 11+ exam success, whether that’s preparing pupils for grammar school entry or highly selective independent schools, and Elmhurst are proud of the exceptional results their pupils achieve.
To learn more, why not join them for their next Open Morning at 9.30am on Friday 7 March where you can meet the Head, tour the school and experience what makes an Elmhurst education so special. Now accepting registrations for Reception class (September 2025).
More info: www.elmhurstschool.net
Outdoor learning at Cumnor House
Cumnor House know that outdoor learning is a fantastic way to support their youngest learners’ growth and development.
The Pathway to Pre-School children delight in sensory listening games. These experiences are not only fun but also help expand children’s vocabulary at this important stage of language development. In the Mud Kitchens, children learn math skills hands-on and using terms like “full” and “empty” in context, while older children begin sounding out words from their recipe cards.
Teamwork and collaboration flourish when children build dens, using turn-taking, positional language, and problem-solving to bring their structures to life. Recognising the academic benefits of outdoor learning,
And starting in January, reception boys will attend a new Forest School site near Banstead Woods, where they can explore nature firsthand.
More info: www.cumnorhouse.com
Little Lions Toddler Group
Little Lions, a popular Toddler Group for children aged 2-4 years, returns on Friday 24 January. Specialist teams create a safe, well-resourced and imaginative environment. Toddlers will have opportunities to engage in play-based activities that support the development of a wide range of skills.
The sessions, including art, dance, gym, drama and Forest School are hosted at Royal Russell School and are available for block bookings or as individual sessions. The cost per half term is just £30, or £6 per session.
Royal Russell is an Independent School for boys and girls aged 3-18 situated in South London. Pupils benefit from a 110-acre campus with exceptional facilities that provide valuable learning opportunities.
More info: www.royalrussell.co.uk
Roll out of free breakfast clubs to begin in April 2025
The Chancellor has announced that up to 750 state-funded primary schools will start offering free breakfast clubs from April.
This initiative will run during the summer term (April-July 2025) as a pilot phase to prepare for a national rollout.
The Department for Education will work with the schools selected as part of the pilot to understand how breakfast clubs can be delivered to meet the needs of schools, parents and pupils when the programme is rolled out nationally.
The Government claims breakfast clubs will help reduce the number of students starting the school day hungry and ensure children come to school ready to learn. It will also support the government’s aim to tackle child poverty by addressing rising food insecurity among children.
More info: www.gov.uk/government/news
School Spring Open Morning
Friday 28 February 2025 9:00am - 10:15am
Birdhurst Day Nursery
Birdhurst Day Nursery is run by Christian Family Concern, a registered Charity Founded in 1893.
At Birdhurst Day Nursery we care for children aged between 3 months – 5 years and follow the government’s Early Years Foundation stage curriculum, enabling every child to progress.
Our Christian values underpin our outlook, ethos and the care given to everyone that comes through our doors.
We offer:
• Open 51 weeks of the year (except bank holidays) 8am–6pm
• Child initiated learning encouraged
• Daily updates via Family App
• Large fully equipped garden with forest school area
• Sensory room
• Weekly extracurricular activities
• Fully qualified staff with regular training
• Freshly cooked meals prepared by our onsite Chef
Contact us on 020 8688 0251 www.christianfamilyconcern.org.uk
royalrussell.co.uk
Coombe Lane, South Croydon, CR9 5BX
Junior
The new childcare offering
By Purnima Tanuku
Early education and childcare is very expensive, especially for our youngest children and as research has shown, many parents end up working just to pay for their child’s nursery. So why is UK childcare so expensive compared to childcare in similar countries? The reason is that the government contribution has been so low and until recently it was limited to children ages 3 and 4.
So, when the previous government’s plan to expand childcare support for working parents in England was announced last year, this was great news, not just for parents but also for children. Research shows that high quality early education and care supports their development, wellbeing and has an impact on their education all through their schooling.
What is the new childcare offering in UK childcare?
The childcare expansion is being delivered in stages, building on the thirty hours of funded childcare for children ages 3 and 4 which was already available. However, the offer is still only available to families where parents are working at least sixteen hours a week.
The roll out provides:
• fifteen hours funded childcare a week for children age 2 from April 2024
• fifteen funded hours for children ages 9+ months from September 2024
This will be increased to thirty hours funded childcare for all children under age 5 from September 2025.
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Although government funded hours make a difference to family finances, this funded childcare still involves costs for parents. It is important to be aware of the following parameters:
The thirty and fifteen hours of government supported childcare is not ‘free.’ The government only pays for the actual childcare sessions, which does not include any meals, snacks, consumables or additional activities, so families can expect to see settings make charges for these.
The funded hours are only during term time. Most parents work all year round so providers may ‘stretch’ these hours across the year, reducing the hours per week.
Depending on the length of your sessions, you will need to pay for any additional hours you need at the nursery’s usual fee especially for early or later hours.
Purnima Tanuku OBE is Chief Executive of National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) (www.nda.org.uk), a charity with a mission to see children and families thrive through access to high-quality early education and care.
Independent School Open Day Directory
Open events require advance booking, so please contact schools directly to book your space.
Aberdour School
Burgh Heath KT20 6AJ aberdourschool.co.uk 14 March
Banstead Prep Banstead, SM7 3RA bansteadprep.com
Early Years Open House Sat 25 January 9–11am
Whole School Open Morning Thu 27 February with tours at 9.15am or 10am.
Box Hill School
Dorking RH5 6EA www.boxhillschool.com 11 February 28 March
Caterham School Caterham, CR3 6YA caterhamschool.co.uk
Wild Welly Walk Visitor Morning: Sat 8 February, 9am
Busy Bees Toddler Group: Every Thursday 9.30-10.30am
Working Visitor Morning
Prep School: 15 January & 25 February
Senior School: 29 January
City of London Freeman’s Ashstead Park KT21 1ET clfs.surrey.sch.uk
Working Visitor Morning
Junior School: 22 Feb
Senior School: 11 Feb
Discover Freeman’s: 11 March
Croydon High School
Croydon CR2 8YB croydonhigh.gdst.net
Junior School Open Mornings 31 January, 19 March (Reception), 2 May
Cumnor House Schools 4 campuses on the outskirts of Croydon. Boys. Girls. Nursery cumnorhouse.com
Cumnor Boys: Mon 20 January, 9-11am
Cumnor Girls: Wed 22 January, 9-11am
Nursery Open Day: South Croydon: Mon 20 January, 9-11am Purley: Mon 20 January, 9-11am
Downsend Schools
Leatherhead, Ashtead and Epsom downsend.co.uk
Whole School open morning: 14 March, 7 June
Dunottar School
Reigate RH2 7EL dunottarschool.com
Thu 27 February, Wed 12 March, Wed 30 April
Elmhurst Prep School and Little Elms Nursery
South Croydon CR2 7DW elmhurstschool.net Fri 28 February
Epsom College Epsom KT17 4JQ www.epsomcollege.org.uk 22 March
Essendene Lodge
Caterham CR3 5PB essendenelodge.co.uk
30 Jan, 1 May
Ewell Castle Junior and Senior School Ewell KT17 2AW ewellcastle.co.uk
Whole School: 1 February
Senior School: 10 March
Prep School: 15 Mar
Hazelwood School
Oxted RH8 OQH hazelwoodschool.co.uk
15 March
Homefield Preparatory Sutton SM1 2TE homefield.sutton.sch.uk
22 March
Kingswood House School Epsom, KT19 8LG kingswoodhouse.org
Junior focus event for pupils in current years 2, 3 & 4: 7 Feb
Open day: 7 March
Lingfield College
Lingfield RH7 6PH
lingfieldcollege.co.uk
Prep in Action Mornings: 21 Jan & 21 March
Prep School Open Morning: 8 March
Senior School Mini Open Mornings: 10 & 26
Feb and 13 & 24 March
Manor House School
Leatherhead KT23 4EN manorhouseschool.org
Spring Fun Day: (18 mths-3 years): 25 January
Whole School Plus Nursery: 19 March
Micklefield School
Reigate RH2 9DU micklefieldschool.co.uk 8 March
Oakhurst Grange
Caterham CR3 6AF www.oakhyrstgrangeschool.co.uk 7 February
Reigate St Mary’s Prep and Choir School
Reigate RH2 7RN www.reigatestmarys.org 13 March
Royal Russell School
Croydon, CR0 5BX royalrussell.co.uk
Nursery & Junior School
Spring Open Morning: Fri 28 February
Seaton House School
Sutton SM2 5LH seatonhouse.sutton.sch.uk
Reception places currently available. Email Marketing@seatonhouse.sutton.sch.uk
Open Morning: Sat 1 March
St John’s School
Leatherhead KT22 8SP www.stjohnsleatherhead.co.uk 14 March
St Christopher’s School and Nursery Epsom KT18 5HE www.st-christophers.surrey.sch.uk 28 February
The Hawthorns School
Bletchingley, RH1 4QJ hawthorns.com 7 February
Clubs, Classes and Activities
Are you looking for a new activity for your children to try? Or perhaps they have a keen interest in music, sports or performing. Whatever their hobbies we have a great choice of local clubs, classes and holiday camps to suit everyone.
All Star Holiday Camps
Multi Activity and Skillzone football holiday camps for children aged 4 – 11 years.
Early Start from 8am. Extended Day from 4pm-5pm.
St Mary’s C of E Primary School Oxted RH8 0NP
www.pllgroup.co.uk
Drama Kids
Drama Kids are passionate about the self-development of children and run an inclusive drama programme for children aged 5-17.
Croydon and the surrounding areas.
020 8667 9812 croydon@dramakids.co.uk www.dramakids.co.uk
Kingswood Surrey Music School
Lessons for beginner to advanced levels from 3 years to adult. Music theory training for music medals, music theatre and band. 1-1 or group lessons in Piano, Guitar, Drums, Violin and choir.
01737 830774
kingswoodsurreymusic@gmail.com www.kingswoodsurreymusic.co.uk
NSSport Holiday Activities
NSSport Holiday Activities provide active, affordable, and exciting childcare during the holidays for children aged 5-11. Extended day 8am6pm.
Auriol Junior School KT19 0PJ
Wallace Fields Junior KT17 3BH
https://nssport2.co.uk
Trinity Sports Club
Trinity Sports Club offer intensive swimming courses over the school holidays.
Small class sizes. Teachers accompany non-swimmers in the water and aim to provide an environment which is fun, warm, friendly and enjoyable.
020 8662 5197
sportsclubmailbox@trinity.croydon.sch.uk www.trinity-school.org/community/ sports-club
Kids Critters Ltd
Behavioural Consultant, Special Educational Needs, Animal Assisted Activities, Exotic Animal Encounters and holiday camps for 4 years to teenagers and special needs, focusing on nature and wildlife activities.
01306771488
tiffany@kidscritters.co.uk www.kidscritters.co.uk
Better Leisure
SWIMBiES for children ages 3 months to 3 years. Better Swim School for kids or swimming lessons for adults.
Reigate and Banstead, Mole Valley and Epsom and Ewell.
www.better.org.uk
Dunottar Saturday Music Academy
The Dunottar Saturday Music Academy welcomes young musicians aged 5-18 from Dunottar School and the surrounding areas. Providing tuition in violin, viola, cello, piano, singing, recorder, guitar and music theory.
info@dunottarschool.com www.dunottarschool.com/saturdaymusic-academy
LCA Dance Academy
LCA Stage Academy provide a range of performance classes and workshops in singing, acting and dancing, including technique training, one to one sessions for children 3-18 yrs.
Ashtead Ballet School
With classes from 3 years to Adult in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Body Conditioning and Pilates
Ashtead Ballet will have the perfect class for you!
07947920343
info@lca-stage.com www.lca-stage.com
The Rock Project Croydon
The Rock Project is the UK & Ireland’s premier school for children’s contemporary music tuition and offer 7–18 year olds group lessons in drums, guitar, bass guitar and vocals.
07719 830599
croydon@therockproject.com www.therockproject.com/croydon
maxine@ashteadballetschool.co.uk www.ashteadballetschool.co.uk
Tumble Tots Epsom
Tumble Tots, the UK’s No.1 leading physical play programme for children from 6 months to 5 years. Develop physical skills which enhances brain development and builds confidence.
07539 468002 epsom@tumbletots.com www.tumbletots.com/epsom
gain ongoing confidence, and learn how to make new friends and have fun.
Our programme provides the opportunity for children to become confident in themselves and develop their social skills and self-awareness by encouraging them to be more confident in communicating with peers and adults, practicing presentation skills and public speaking while developing creativity and
They
Dunottar Saturday Music Academ
Calling all young aspiring musicians aged 5 -18
All abilities welcome from beginners to more experienced musicians.
The Academy operates from 8.30am to 3.00pm on Saturdays. Lesson times are arranged between the teacher and pupil.
Strings: Violin, Viola and Cello
Woodwind: Flute, Clarinet and Saxophone
Nestled within the grounds of the prestigious Trinity School, Croydon, Trinity Sports Club has everyone covered with their top-notch facilities including: sports halls, cricket nets, 5-a-side football pitches, badminton, netball, basketball korfball, tennis court, 25-metre swimming pool and astro turf pitches.
Become a Trinity Sports Club Member with flexible membership options granting access to the gym, swimming pool and exciting racket sessions at very affordable rates.
That Retro Place, Caterham
By Lucas Ridley
If you love the retro theme, That Retro Place is the place for you! When I most recently went, I was greeted by the owner, Havard. After ordering we could choose one of the many retro board games they have in the café. We decided to order a hot chocolate which was smooth and luscious and topped with whipped cream, marshmallows, maltesers and more. I also had a delicious lemon flavoured muffin.
Winter Warmers and Sweet Treats
Priory Farm Garden Room Café, Redhill
By
Ameera, from Sutton, age 6
I was lucky enough to visit Priory Farm Garden Room Café for lunch. As soon as I walked through the doors, I was so excited – it was cosy and warm with lots of pretty decorations. We made our way to the café and they took us to our table. As we were walking, I noticed lots of delicious, home baked treats – brownies, biscuits, cakes, doughnuts and much more! I ordered fish fingers and chips from the Kids’ menu – it was so tasty! I also drank a hot chocolate with cream on top followed by a delicious biscuit for pudding. I was so full at the end!
Thank you, Priory Farm Café, for such a lovely lunch. I can’t wait to go back soon. Visit with your family, you’ll have a lovely time! 01737 823304 I gardencafe@prioryfarm.co.uk www.prioryfarm.co.uk/garden-room-cafe
Beauty and the Feast, Purley
By Zaynab Nasim, age 11
Beauty and the Feast is a pink themed bijoux establishment and offers a variety of beauty services and a cafe. Founded by the lovely Vera, who used her diverse background and range of skills to create a dreamy ‘pink palace.’
As well as being pleasing to the eye, the venue caters to various dietary needs including halal, vegan, gluten free and dairy free alternatives.
On arrival, Vera courteously greeted me and showed me the event space that was set up for a party. The elegant decor was extremely impressive, with cascading flowers suspended from the ceiling.
I was treated to the most delicious afternoon tea, arranged on a delicate three-tiered stand that displayed wraps, scones, exotic fruit and many other delights.
Beauty and the Feast is coveted as a great family-friendly venue. I would highly recommend the berry drink, constructed with a generous amount of Vimto-flavored candy floss on top of a flute glass. Quoting Vera “Everyone is welcome at the pink palace!” 020 8251 5474 I Info@beautyandthefeastlondon.co.uk www.beautyandthefeast.co.uk
While we were waiting, we set up our game, Cover up. Havard came over and explained how to play the game, it was good fun. We spent some time looking at all the old retro computer games, some you were able to buy, we were allowed to have a go on some of them. We then bought some tokens for the big arcade machines, they have Pac-man, Donkey Kong and Space Invaders. These are great fun to play.
This is a very fun happy place to go, we came out with a big smile on our faces. We will definitely be back.
07974 735254 I https://bit.ly/4gSF0Gj
Blossoms Café, Godstone
By Tazkiyah Nasim, age 10
Blossoms Café in Godstone is simply astounding! The menu features an array of wholesome and healthy choices. The owner of the café, Sami, was super friendly. The welcoming atmosphere was accented by shabby chic chairs and comfy sofas.
Food is made to order and the ingredients are fresh. Portion sizes are generous and the food is value for money. Exotic specials such as Indonesian soup were on offer. I tried the grilled halloumi and roasted vegetable sandwich. It came with a side of crisps and homemade coleslaw.
For dessert, a delectable array of gateaux is on offer. I tried the scrumptious vegan carrot cake. My drink, the luxury hot chocolate tasted like a dream. Blossoms café is family-friendly and dog-friendly. During summer the café has a Caribbean BBQ at the donkey derby on Godstone green.
I really enjoyed my time and I give Blossoms Café five stars. 01883 818330 I Blossomsgodstone@gmail.com www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086564454802
Priory Park Café, Reigate
By Isabelle Morgan, age 7
The Priory Park Café is in the middle of Priory Park and is very bright in the shape of a circle with glass windows and doors all around.
It has a cool seating area where you can take pictures and a little shelf with books to read. The staff were very welcoming and gave me an activity sheet to complete with my order.
I ordered a hot chocolate with marshmallows and cream, a vegan sausage roll and a cookie. The food arrived very quickly, and the seats were super comfy after a long term at school.
The hot chocolate was delicious and not too hot which meant I was able to drink it straight away with a straw. The vegan sausage roll was fab, the best I ever had! I liked how flaky the pastry was. I would really recommend that you go here to eat, drink and relax.
07367 923824 I priorycafe@creamyandbites.co.uk www.creamyandbites.co.uk
New nursery provision at Little Downsend Ashtead launched in September 2023, for babies and children aged six months to 2 years
Monthly payments and ‘pay as you go’ holiday club
Outstanding academic results, exceeding National averages by 20% in Reading and Writing, and 15% in Maths
Qualified and Specialist teachers providing creative, innovative teaching for even our littlest people
Winner in the ISA Awards 2024 for Excellence and Innovation in Early Years
All four schools in the Downsend family recently rated ‘excellent in all areas’ by the Independent Schools Inspectorate
Our Little Downsend Schools, for children aged 6 months to 7 years, are located in Ashtead, Epsom and Leatherhead
Talk to our team to find out which school is right for your child or book a tour of our award winning nursery and pre-prep. Call 01372 372311, email admissions@downsend.co.uk or visit www.downsend.co.uk to find out more.
What's On Your family guide to
Trails and Tales
Gatton Park RH2 0TW www.gattonpark.co.uk
Every Fri And Wed in Half Term
Enjoy the story and go for a walk in the park to bring the story to life.
Puddle Jumping January
Godstone Farm RH9 8LX www.godstonefarm.co.uk 11, 12 ,18, 19 & 26 Jan Pop on your wellies, soak up the farmyard fun.
The Close Up Show
The Leatherhead Theatre KT22 8DN www.theleatherheadtheatre.com
18 Jan
Close-up magic is one of the most popular forms of the art and this unique event showcases some of the best direct from The Magic Circle.
Rave In Space Big Fish Little Fish Family Rave
Dorking Halls RH4 1SG www.dorkinghalls.co.uk
19 Jan
Award-winning fun - space themed event for families with 0–8-year-olds.
Happy Who Year
Epsom Playhouse KT18 5AL www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk
19 Jan
Welcome in the New Year with Peter Davidson, Colin Baker and Sylvester McCoy in a day-long Dr WHO extravaganza.
Jigsaw Week
The Horton Arts Centre KT19 8NP www.thehortonepsom.org
24 Jan–1 Feb
There will be various jigsaws set up to suit all ages and abilities.
Orchard Wassail
Addiscombe Park www.park.addiscombe.net
25 Jan
An ancient ritual to waken the trees and encourage a good fruit harvest. A FREE event suitable for all ages.
Close up Magic Epsom Playhouse KT18 5AL www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk
1 Feb
This unique event showcases some of the best magicians direct from The Magic Circle. Prepare to be amazed!
Snowdrop Day
Gatton Park Reigate RH2 0TW www.gattonpark.co.uk
2, 9, 16 & 23 Feb
Heralds of spring and a sure sign that warmer weather is on the way. Gatton Hall open for cake and refreshments, plus a plant sale.
Bring Your Baby Comedy Night Dorking Halls RH4 1SG www.dorkinghalls.co.uk
5 Feb
An afternoon of hilarious comedy, where you can relax and have a good laugh at the best comedians in the UK, without needing childcare!
An Ant Called Amy Polka Theatre SW19 1SB www.polkatheatre.com
6–9 Feb
This is a story about an ant called Amy, her brother Andy and a Brown Spider that gently refers to sibling loss. Ages 5-8
Sing A Long a Musicals Live Epsom Playhouse KT18 5AL www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk
8 Feb
Your chance to sing-along to all your favourite musical theatre songs.
Great Victorians Florence Nightingale
Bourne Hall Museum KT17 1UF https://bit.ly/41Mja2Y
8 Feb
Meet Florence Nightingale and discover her life story.
Polesdenopoly
Polesden Lacey RH5 6BD https://bit.ly/4fDAESp
8-23 Feb
A fun, interactive trail around the grounds inspired by a well-known board game.
Whipped Up
Polka Theatre SW19 1SB www.polkatheatre.com
12–16 Feb
Stimulating for tiny audience members with sensory play served up throughout the show. Up to age 2.
The Pea and the Princess Polka Theatre SW19 1SB www.polkatheatre.com 15 Feb–30 Mar
Leap into a high velocity adventure, into the world of a Ninja Princess on a mega-mission, a practical Prince concocting the best inventions,
‘Polesdenopoly’ at Polesden Lacey
Play ‘Polesdenopoly’ at Polesden Lacey this half term from 8 to 23 February.
A fun, interactive trail around the grounds inspired by a well-known board game.
Collect land and money to become as rich as Mrs Greville, the millionaire heiress who left Polesden Lacey to the National Trust.
Suitable for ages 5+. Two to five players per group. No booking required.
Find out more at https://bit.ly/4fDAESp
Winter Family Fun
All listings are correct at the time of going to print.
a Queen with a slightly worrying crown obsession and a very green baddy indeed. Age range 3 – 7.
The River Runner
The Horton Arts Centre Epsom KT19 8NP www.thehortonepsom.org
15 Feb
A magical family show, featuring a live original score of soaring folk tunes and ballads.
Discovery Week
Godstone Farm RH9 8LX www.godstonefarm.co.uk 15-23 Feb
See below for details.
Jurassic Earth
Dorking Halls RH4 1SG www.dorkinghalls.co.uk 16 Feb
Bring your biggest ROOAR and your fastest feet as you take Rangers Danger’s masterclass to become an Official Dinosaur Ranger.
Rude Science
Dorking Halls RH4 1SG www.dorkinghalls.co.uk 17 Feb
The naughtiest, funniest, most revolting science show in the world.
Light Your Wey
Dapdune Wharf Guildford GU1 4RR https://bit.ly/3VXHURY 17-21 Feb
Create playful shadows with light this half-term to get creative with the mini shadow puppet theatre.
Denbies Nature Train Ride
Denbies Wine Estate RH5 6AA www.denbies.co.uk 17–21 Feb
Enjoy a gentle nature train ride around the vineyard with Denbies Woodland friends!
Mark Thompson’s Spectacular Science Show Epsom Playhouse KT18 5AL www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk 19 Feb
This interactive show promises to entertain and educate in the most spectacular way!
Cave Painting
Bourne Hall Museum KT17 1UF https://bit.ly/41Mja2Y 20 Feb
Discover how and why paintings were created. Then by flickering light
try to create your own cave painting in our very own ‘caves’.
Teddy Bears Picnic
The Leatherhead Theatre KT22 8DN www.theleatherheadtheatre.com 22 Feb
This delightful show is full of songs, games, stories, fun and laughter and is suitable for under-5s.
Sandscape Polka Theatre SW19 1SB www.polkatheatre.com 28 Feb–2 Mar
Experience an ever-changing view of sand: swirling, creating shapes, prints, lines, games and landscapes. Age range 2–7 years.
Stay and Play Sessions
Cumnor House Nursery, South Croydon CR2 6DH www.cumnorhouse.com
Fri 17 & 31 Jan, Fri 14 Feb and Fri 7 & 21 Mar 10am–11am
Join Cumnor House Nursery for their stay and play sessions where children aged 18 months to 4 years can explore fun activities and parents can meet the nursery staff and see he nursery in action.
Toddle Time Banstead Prep, SM7 3RA www.bansteadprep.com
Friday Morning, term time only These FREE events and for children ages 1-3 to attend with a parent, with plenty of toys, games and activities to enjoy together. Find out more about Banstead Prep in an informal setting. 9.30am–11am
Little Elms Nursery, South Croydon, CR2 7DW www.elmhurstschool.net
This is a great chance for little ones aged 0–4 years to come and see Elmhurst and spend an hour having fun in Little Elms.
Little Lions Toddler Group Royal Russell, Croydon CR9 5BX www.royalrussell.co.uk
Fridays from 24 Jan-14 Mar During Little Lions, the specialist teams create a safe, well-resourced and imaginative environment. Toddlers will have opportunities to engage in play-based activities which support the development of a wide range of skills. 10.45–11.45am
Discovery Week at Godstone Farm
Explore the wonders of traditional farm life this February Half Term at Godstone Farm’s Discovery Week from 15 to 23 February!
Dive into the Discovery Barn to see old farming tools, tackle giant jigsaw puzzles, and wander the Scarecrow Maize. Get creative with arts and crafts by making a wild bird feeder, and enjoy fascinating talks about barn owls, friendly ferrets, and adorable newborn lambs. Don’t miss the fun ‘Where’s Wiglet?’ prize trail around the farm. Hands-on fun for all ages!
Find out more at www.godstonefarm.co.uk
Cumnor House School, a family of four independent schools in Purley and South Croydon for boys and girls aged 2 to 13, provides an environment where young minds thrive, talents are nurtured, and character development takes centre stage.
Pupils begin their journey in our co-educational nurseries and transition seamlessly to our Girls’ and Boys’ schools, which have been shortlisted for Independent School of the Year awards - a testament to our commitment to delivering a holistic and inclusive education that promotes academic excellence, personal growth and well-being. Join us at our Open Events in January or book a Private Tour to experience our school community first-hand. To book your place, scan the QR code or visit our website.