Camps, classes and days out in the holidays
news & views Editor: Izabella Shaw 0208 669 5187 editor@families-LSB.co.uk www.families-LSB.co.uk Cover picture of Amelia in Banstead Woods, taken by Louise Sutherland Photography. www.sutherlandphotography.co.uk ‘Families London-Surrey Borders’ is part of a group of magazines headed by ‘Families South West’ established in 1990. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and its agents cannot be held responsible for loss or damage, or for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence. Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted are sent at owners risk and, whilst every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liability for any loss or damage. Printed by Ridgeway Press Limited 01256 882131, Bramley, Hampshire. © 2011 Families London-Surrey Borders.
Contents News and views.................................................2 Mums in Business...............................................3 Parenting - protecting our children...............4 Clubs and classes...............................................6 Holiday camps and activities....................8 -10 Down by the River (In London)........... 12 -13 What’s on - Diary dates for families... 14 -17
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What’s on - theatres.......................................18 What’s on - arts news....................................19 Competitions and classified...........................20
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The farm known as S G Clarke, on the A2022 Croydon Lane between Banstead and Wallington is for sale. A consortium of local community organisations is looking for around £1 million to buy the property and run it as a community farm. They have already raised over half that and are looking for people to buy a share in the farm, the outbuildings shops, polytunnels and so on. The aim is to buy it and convert it into a community farm for people to grow organic fruit and veg together and, “ensure we all have access to fresh affordable healthy produce, share skills, offer training to schools, disability groups and everyone else... and much much more.” The farm would be run by the farm team including experienced growers, project manager, training staff and shop assistants. For latest updates, contact Anna Francis, anna.francis@bioregional.com 07939 060688 or check the website at www.suttoncommunityfarm.org.uk
Time for a Change? Katie Bridge has an opportunity for mums which can help them be at home with their children during their school years. She said living around this area means both parents probably need to be bringing in some kind of income, but a lot of new mums don’t really like the idea of going back to full-time paid employment. She said she has an opportunity for parents to own a home based business, use their previous business and communication skills, work flexible hours around their family’s needs, and earn a good income. Call Katie for an informal chat:
We’re also posting updates and stories at Facebook.com/FamiliesLSB. Again, whenever we get late-breaking news or web-only competitions, we can let you know about them. But only if you ‘Like’ our page.
Roll up! for circus fun in all Surrey libraries Books take centre stage this summer, as children aged four to 11 are invited to come along to their local library and join in the fun of Circus Stars, this year’s circus-themed Summer Reading Challenge. Children can read whatever books they like – fiction, nonfiction, poetry, even audio books – and there are stickers, a bookmark, a wristband and other incentives to collect as they read. Circus Stars starts in all Surrey libraries on Saturday 9 July, and there’s no charge for joining in. For more information about Circus Stars, pop into your local library, go to www.surreycc.gov.uk/kidstuff or phone 0300 200 1001. 2
Want to help buy a farm for the community?
01737 766403 / 07909 681884 / katiebridge17@gmail.com
Hand-made Belgian chocolate now for diabetics Local chocolatier Carlo Edwards has extended his range of hand-made Belgian chocolates to a zero-sugar range suitable for diabetics. Carlo, proprietor of Cocoa River in Beeches Avenue, Carshalton Beeches, said he routinely buys high quality chocolate from Belgian supplier Barry Callebout, which has recently introduced a range of raw chocolate suited for diabetics. Carlo said he uses this base material in white, dark and milk varieties to make chocolates using his standard moulds and techniques. He said the range uses a lot of roasted nuts, which are also sugar-free. A good flavour is rum and raisin, which is shaped in barrel moulds. Carlo also makes truffles, using the same diabetic-appropriate chocolate for the filling and the outer. Ed note - Yep! delicious! The chocolates are available only from Cocoa River and cost the same as the shop’s other ranges at around £4 / 100g. www.cocoariver.co.uk / 0208 2960158
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July-August 2011
mums in business Entrepreneurial group for mums launches in Carshalton
New label range from Easy2Name
A group of Carshalton business-women calling themselves ‘Carshalton Mumpreneurs’ organised a meet up in June and will meet up again on 7 July. Organiser Becca Wall, founder of local childrens’ drama classes Dramabuds, put out a call to all Carshalton mums running, or looking to run, their own businesses and was amazed at the response, when over 20 mums turned up. “We aim to offer support to fellow mumpreneurs, share experience and act as a soundboard for ideas,” explained Becca. The group aims to meet on the first Thursday of every month. The next meeting is on 7 July. If you would like more information or want to come along, contact Carshalton Mumpreneurs via info@carshaltonmums.com or check out www.carshaltonmums.com for more details.
New from label specialist Easy2name is the unique Fab & Funky range of full colour personalised labels that are available for all types of surface. Fab & Funky labels (50mm x 20mm) £17.95 for a pack of 40 labels, 8 of each of 5 designs. Win one of five ‘Off to school’ sets by visiting our website at families-LSB.co.uk and entering our online competition The full Easy2Name range can be seen at www.easy2name.com
Local designer develops practical baby accessories Local clothing designer Leanne Curtis-Cobb has developed a range of highly practical accessories for babies and toddlers. The range, sold under the QuackQuackMoo brand, focusses on practical accessories which make life easier for new mums and those with more experience. After discovering, following the birth of her first son, that not all babies stay dry and look beautiful all the time, Leanne started out trying to find a replacement for the standard square of muslin or Terry towelling. She found a new fabric made from a mixture of bamboo fibre and cotton which is more absorbent than cotton; dries more quickly and has natural anti-bacterial properties.
kinds of other goods, from Babygrows and bed protectors to training pants and vests. Leanne initially made the items for herself and close friends, but with the birth of her second son, she started going a bit more commercial, and eventually set up her own business selling a wide range of products. Discount for our readers Families has arranged an offer for our readers. Enter the word Families in the box on the QuackQuackMoo website for a 15% discount. www.quackquackmoo.co.uk
This eco-friendly material is combined with waterproof layers and then laid up in new designs to create bibs, shoulder throws, and all
Multi-racial dolls and toys now available from Croydon store Local mums Mandy Malcolm and Camilla Case have started selling an inclusive range of dolls and other toys which emphasise a range of different skin colours and also disabilities. They are based in an office in Airport House on the Purley Way. Camilla told Families that they started out looking for children’s toys which represented their own culture. That sent them sourcing dolls designed to portray people from a range of backgrounds including AfroCaribbean, White Caucasian, Latino, Indian sub-continent, Asian and even native American. One set of dolls, for example, said Camilla, “portrays a group of school friends including disabled people, a white child, a black child and an Asian child and we sell those as a set or singly.” Having started out with the dolls, Camilla and Mandy moved into books, jigsaws, puzzles and other products, all with the same inclusive theme. Prices start from around £4 up to £45 or so. www.weloveourskin.co.uk
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parenting Where Has My Little Girl Gone? Padded bras for seven-year-olds, dolls dressed in high heels and pole dancing kits for kids. From every angle, our daughters are bombarded by messages about looks and sexuality which they are too young to understand. Even primary school girls feel pressured to conform to a thin, ‘sexy’ ideal, leading to self-destructive behaviour, ranging from anxiety and low self-esteem to eating disorders and self-harm.
Council of Europe to ban mobile phones, WiFi networks in schools A Council of Europe committee examined evidence that the electromagnetic radiations have “potentially harmful” effects on humans, and concluded that “immediate action was required to protect children.” They also said mobile phones and computers with wireless internet connections (WiFi) pose a risk to human health and should be banned from schools.
But while girls are fast-tracked though childhood, parents are being drowned out by the internet, retailers, the media and peer pressure. We are left feeling panicky and helpless. A huge debate rages about why it’s happening - and who’s to blame. But headline-grabbing government plans to clamp down on the causes of early sexualisation address only part of the problem. So far there has been no practical help for parents on how to fight back against the ‘Lolita Effect’. Packed full of insights, tips and expertise from psychologists and specialists, Where Has My Little Girl Gone? is a useful and timely guide to safeguarding your daughter’s childhood – so she can grow into the healthy, confident woman she deserves to be. Now parenting author Tanith Carey, herself the mother of two young girls, has written the first hands-on guide for parents which will show you how to: • Screen out damaging messages about body image and sex from the internet and media. • Build your daughter’s self-esteem so she is strong enough to deal with the pressure to behave inappropriately for her years.
Families Group has gathered lots of useful and jargon-free articles, clear, easy to read books, good websites and recent media coverage in one convenient place.
• Steer your daughter towards positive female role models, toys and hobbies.
www.familiesonline.co.uk/radiation
Tanith Carey is a parenting author, award-winning journalist and former foreign correspondent who writes for a wide range of national newspapers and magazines. This is her fifth book.
See also:
Paperback £7.99 from Lion Books ISBN: 978 0 7459 5542 1 www.tanithcarey.com
After exposure to UV light
www.wiredchild.org ; www.mobilewise.org www.wifiinschools.org.uk
Konfidence clothes for UV protection
Stay sun safe with a UV Angel Slapping on the suncream can be a battle especially when children don’t understand why it’s necessary. Families has discovered a fun range of sun Before exposure jewellery from Yorkshire-based UV Angel. These great to UV products, made from sun sensitive beads, change colour to let you know that the ultraviolet (UV) light you’re being exposed to could be damaging your skin. “The idea came after a good friend developed skin cancer,” said Angela Thompson from UV Angel. “When the beads change colour, it reminds you that there’s UV out there and you need to protect yourself.” There’s a wide range of UV Angel products to choose from including bag tags, key rings, necklaces and bracelets. There’s a fun range for children, as well as a more contemporary range for mums. The darker the beads go, the more UV there is and they act as a great way to prompt not just sun cream application, but also conversation about the dangers of the sun. UV Angel also sells the beads, so people can make DIY jewellery. Take a look at the full range of UV Angel products at www.uv-angel.com. Prices start at £2. 4
The report highlighted the potential health risks of cordless telephones and baby monitors, which use similar technology. Fears have been raised that electromagnetic radiation emitted by wireless devices can cause cancers and affect the developing brain. Children (and definitely babies) have much thinner skulls than adults, so are not affected in the same way.
Konfidence, which makes premium swimming products for babies and children, has unveiled a new range of UV-protective clothing. The collection comprises long-sleeve T-shirts, long sleeve sun suits, shorts, and legionnaire style hats for children aged six months to 14 years. Konfidence is excited about the new range because it uses a material called PBT. Mechanically strong, PBT is perfect for body-huggable clothing, and when compared to lycra, it is proven to retain its shape for longer, is far more chlorine resistant and able to maintain a greater consistency in its UPF 40+ protection rating over the life of the garment. Konfidence has launched the new colour co-ordinated range, which can be worn in or out of the water, in a choice of three bright and stylish colourways nautical/cyan; dark pink/ soft pink; and cyan/white. www.konfidence.co.uk or telephone 01579 371000.
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July-August 2011
Parenting
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clubs and classes
Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@families-LSB.co.uk
Drama specialist takes on principal role at Croydon Stagecoach The new principal of the Stagecoach school in Croydon is Rachel Betts, who comes with an impressive background in drama and theatre. Stagecoach, Britain’s largest part-time theatre school, has been running in Croydon for 16 years.
Dramabuds marks birthday with new classes
Rachel currently runs two main schools for six- to 16-year olds and five classes running alongside, for the younger age group. Both run every Saturday during school terms. Stagecoach Croydon will be running Holiday Workshops from Monday 1st to Friday 5th August at Croydon High School, Annie for four- to six-year olds from 9.30-12.30 and Michael Jackson Thriller for six- to 18-year olds from 10-4pm each day. The week will end with a full stage production with costumes and lighting. For more, contact Rachel on 0845 265 7083 or email croydon@stagecoach.co.uk.
Diddi dance classes to continue as Jo prepares to be a mum Diddi Dance in Banstead, Stoneleigh, Wallington and Hooley has some exciting news: leader Jo is expecting her first baby, but her classes are continuing as normal. Her fantastic team of teachers will be covering the classes and entertaining at parties throughout the summer, holidays and beyond. Danielle will be teaching all classes in Bletchingley, Reigate, Banstead and Stoneleigh and Claire will be teaching all classes in Hooley
Local Stagecoacher really does Think She Can Dance
and Wallington. For your free trial, more information about any of these classes, or to book a funky Diddi Dance party, call or email Jo on 0787 363 4292 or jo.swidzinska@diddidance.com. Jo will still be running the classes and bookings and then she will be returning to her teaching slowly once she has recovered from becoming a first time Mummy. www.diddidance.com
Beanies opens in Croydon Beanies cafe has opened in Croydon, and with it a range of classes and facilities. Currently, the child- and parent-friendly cafe runs classes by a range of local businesses: United Martial Arts runs Monkeys classes (two year olds) and Pandas (three to four year olds) on Wednesday mornings. Little Kickers runs Junior Kickers (two to 3½ year olds) and Mighty Kickers (3½ to five year olds) on Friday mornings. Diddi Dance runs dance classes for two to four year olds on Tuesday mornings.
Kirsty Swain, from Hackbridge, made it to the final of the who BBC’s So You Think You Can Dance reality TV show. The dance teacher at performance art school Stagecoach Sutton impressed the panel of judges with her showmanship and stage presence.
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Dramabuds is an early years drama company specialising in providing imaginative drama classes and workshops exclusively for children aged two to six years. The company has just launched a new programme that offers schools and nurseries regular weekly classes, one off themed workshops, after school clubs and end of term drama parties. The Dramabuds programme supports all six areas of Early Years Foundation Stage framework (EYFS) and areas of the Key Stage 1 curriculum. A free 30-minute class is available to all schools and nurseries in the area interested in Dramabuds running sessions at their setting. If you would like to see Dramabuds at your (child’s) nursery or school please get in touch with Dramabuds on 020 8669 2355 or you can download a copy of Dramabuds’ schools and nurseries programme at www.dramabuds.co.uk
MAD Academy expands in Sutton MAD Academy Sutton is opening new classes in Sutton on Friday mornings. The new venue is the Thomas Wall Centre and Pauline is running two classes: Babies (3 months) to crawlers 09:45am to 10:20
Time for Mums runs photography courses on Tuesday afternoons and classes to help you understand your children and their behaviour on Friday afternoons.
Walkers to 4yrs: 10:45am to 11:30. 01372 372 942 www. madacademy.com pauline.llewellyn@madacademy.com
There is a range of other classes going on every day, including story-telling; movies; baby massage; dance and music; yoga for mums; drama and ballet.
Stagecoach Sutton 0208 660 7753.
Beanies also has a hairdresser for mums and children available for appointments. Margarita, is available every Monday between 10am and 5pm. She charges £4 for a fringe cut and £8 for a full haircut.
See the full story at www.Families-LSB.co.uk
Email thegirls@beaniescafe.co.uk or call them on 020 8680 2088 or visit www.beaniescafe.co.uk
www.stagecoach.co.uk/sutton
Dramabuds is now three years old. To celebrate, the Dramabuds team is bringing drama to schools and nurseries across Sutton, Croydon and Epsom.
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July-August 2011
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holiday activities What’s on during the holidays
Offers from Kidspace Croydon
We try our best to make sure the information listed is correct, but please always phone before setting out in case details have changed.
15. £19.50 (£35 for two siblings)
Please also remember to say you saw the event listed in Families London-Surrey Borders.
This workshop is aimed at older children and teens. For 11-16 years. £22.50 (£40 for two siblings)
We regularly update our website, so visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk for a more extensive and up-to-date guide to events in your local area.
West Wickham / Shirley venue:
Classes For Pre-Schoolers MAD Academy Croydon The ARC Caterham
Cocktails (non-alcoholic) & Canapes Mon 15 Aug 10.30 – 12.30pm
Summer Puddings Wed 17 Aug 10.30 – 12.30pm Participants will prepare some lovely summer puddings. Fo five to 15 years. £19.50 (£35 for two siblings). Pack up a Picnic Wed 24 Aug 10.30 – 12.30pm Participants will prepare some tasty picnic food. For ages five to 15. £19.50 (£35 for two siblings)
Mon 1 Aug 1.15 - 2.00pm; Thu 25 Aug 2.00 - 2.45 St John’s Community Hall, Upper Selsdon Road, Selsdon CR2 8DD Fri 5, 26 Aug 10.00 - 10.45am Free spirited, high energy music and dance for children, combining movement, rhythms, songs, instruments, listening and games. For walkers - four year olds. £6.25 per class. For further details contact Debbie Mason.
Allstars Holiday Club 07737 251 868 Holiday club in Croydon offering various activities including arts and crafts, swimming and baking, visits to Kidspace, cinema, farms. £15/day (9.00 - 5.00pm) or £20 per day (8.00 - 6.00pm), Allstars also provide a holiday homework club£10.00ph(day and evening sessions). Ring for further details.
MAD Academy - Sutton Cheam Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam SM3 8BL 01372 372 942 pauline.llewellyn@madacademy.com www.madacademy.com Tue 9, 16, 23 Aug 10.45 – 11.30am Summer Holiday MAD Classes for walkers to four-year olds. £22.50 (three-class bookings only – no single classes). YMCA Sure Start Centre, Bolters Lane, Banstead SM7 2BQ Sat 13, 20 Aug 9.45 – 10.30am Summer Holiday MAD Classes for walkers to four year olds. £15.00 (two-class bookings only - no single classes). For further details contact Pauline.
Adventure / Survival RAW Adventure Camps Royal Russell School, Croydon and Aberdour School, Burgh Heath 01235 832222 www.rawadventurecamps.co.uk Mon - Fri 9.20 - 4.30pm; extended hours available (8.00 – 6.00pm) at extra cost. Outdoor adventure camps for developing and exploring survival skills. Activities include shelter building, fire making, bandana dying, wilderness first aid and (new for 2011) real animal encounters. For eight to14year olds. From £159/week - see website for details.
Art / Craft / Cookery Workshops Kitchen Stars 07702 553 757/07904 238 748 info@kitchenstars.co.uk www.kitchenstars.co.uk Selsdon, South Croydon venue: Mexican Fiesta Wed 10 Aug 10.30 – 12.30pm Participants will prepare Mexican dishes. For ages five to 8
Open daily 9am – 7pm (8pm on Fridays and Saturdays) during the holidays. Kidspace have a couple of great offers for you over the summer months.
Multi-Activity
01689 844848 debbie.mason@madacademy.com www.madacademy.com
All Summer
Comeback Kid Offer - If you have paid the full admission price, you can return to Kidspace within 24 hours and have free entry or return within 14 days and pay half price entry. T&Cs apply and you will need your original receipt to redeem this offer. If you book a birthday party to be held in July or August, you will receive a free onemonth pass for the birthday child and two adults.
A Passion For… Holiday Workshops Whitgift School, Croydon High and Sutton High School, Sutton 01235 832222 www.apassionfor.co.uk Mon - Fri 9.20 - 4.30pm; extended hours available (8.00 – 6.00pm) at extra cost. A chance for children to follow their passion or discover a new one. They will spend a week focusing on their chosen activity and will work on a project, dance routine or music performance depending on their chosen course. Check the website for dates / details of courses available at particular sites. For 6-16 years (age ranges vary according to workshop). From £154/week. Downsend+ Downsend School, Leatherhead KT22 8TJ 01372 385403/07909 861280 www.downsend.co.uk
Downsend Lodges+ Downsend School, Leatherhead Lodge, Leatherhead KT22 8ST 07899 011275 www.downsend.co.uk 11 Jul - 26 Aug A fun programme of daily activities, including themed days and weeks. For two - five year olds Kidspace Unit 3, The Colonnades, 619 Purley Way, Croydon CR0 4RQ www.kidspaceadventures.com/croydon/bookings_clubs Mon 25 Jul – Fri 2 Sep (weekdays only) 8.30 – 6.00pm Lots of fun and games including arts and crafts activities, cooking opportunities, games, exclusive use of the Kidspace facilities such as the climbing wall and go karts, plus weekly trips to a Ten Pin bowling alley. Breakfast, lunch (two courses) and dinner (two courses) are included in the price. Further information available on the website. Kool Crew Holiday Play Scheme
11 Jul - 2 Sep A large variety of daily activities including workshops, courses and trips. For five to 13 year olds.
Canons Leisure Centre, Mitcham, Surrey CR4 4HD 020 8640 8543 25 Jul onwards, Mon - Fri 9.00 - 5.00pm
NumberWorks ‘n’ Words coming to Wallington NumberWorks’n’Words will be opening a school in Wallington from the Autumn. Call Richard at the Sutton centre to register your interest.
NumberWorks’nWords is a specialist in Maths and English tuition from Reception to Year Eleven and promises to inject some muchneeded excitement into after school learning.
Whether it’s to help them through their 11+, SATs or GCSE exams, work on particular skills they might be lacking or to give them some new challenges, students are taught concepts, methods and strategies to help their understanding at school. Call 0208 642 8884 or www.numberworks.com.
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July-August 2011
holiday activities Science parties lead to smoke and explosions Mother Nature Science offers science parties and holiday camps. The company has just opened in South West London. Leaders, like Richard, can choose from many thousands of activities, all of which have been planned, tried, tested and enhanced to capture the ideal blend of learning and excitement. The challenge in a science party is to engage all of the children and not just those who love science which is why the activities in their parties come in rapid succession. An additional challenge in a holiday camp is to blend activities in the classroom with science in the playground and on the sports field which is why their camp locations also have excellent outdoor facilities. Call 0845 834 0986 or www.mnature.co.uk.on
Richmond@mnature.co.uk Children can try different sports, win a crazy challenge, enjoy the themed weeks and have lots of fun. Members: £13.40/day; non-members: £17/day; early drop off/late pickup available at an additional cost of £2.75/day. Call for further details and to book. Mother Nature Summer Science Academy 0845 834 0986 summer@mnature.co.uk www.mnature.co.uk
Super Camps Multi-Activity Day Camps Royal Russell School, Croydon; Whitgift School, Croydon; Sutton High School, Sutton and Aberdour School, Burgh Heath 01235 832222 www.supercamps.co.uk Mon - Fri 9.20am – 4.30pm with free extended hours (8.00 6.00pm).
Haslemere Primary School, Haslemere Ave, Mitcham CR4 3PQ Weeks beginning 8 Aug and 15 Aug The Aragon School, Aragon Road, Morden SM4 4QU Weeks beginning 25 Jul, 1, 8 Aug Hillcross Primary, Ashridge Way, Morden SM4 4EE Weeks beginning 15, 22, 30 Aug Mon - Fri, 9.15am - 3.30pm. Suitable for five - 12 year olds.
Children will get to experience over 40 activities (sports, arts and crafts) ranging from motor quad bikes and climbing to friendship bracelets and clay modelling. For four to 14 year olds. Sutton Holiday Camps C/O Sutton Tennis Academy, Rose Hill Park, Sutton, SM1 3HH 020 8641 6611 www.suttonholidaycamps.com
Five thrilling days of fun science games and experiments in the classroom and on the sports field. Programme includes magic potions, rockets, hovercraft, optical illusions, robots and dry ice. Make new friends and get ahead in science class. Lots of take-homes each day. Money-back guarantee. Prices from £150 per week. Book online or call for more information regarding discounts.
Daily tennis camps; multi-sports camps to include football, tennis, dodgeball, cricket, rounders, basketball and hockey; holiday day camps organised by the Sutton Day Nursery at Sutton Tennis Academy, with activities ranging from sports, arts and crafts and group games. For four to 16 year olds. Further details available on the website or by contacting Rachael Porsz.
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holiday activities Performing Arts / Dance Stagecoach Coulsdon Woodcote High School, Meadow Rise, Coulsdon, CR5 2EH 0845 078 0805 www.stagecoach.co.uk/coulsdon 8 - 12 Aug Mon - Thu 9.30 - 3.30pm, Fri 11.00 - 6.30pm. Performance at 5.30pm. Pirates!
Stagecoach Sutton 020 8660 7753 sutton@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/Sutton 25 – 29 Jul Summer workshops for four to 18 year olds. Contact Jennifer Jones for further details. Theatrebugs Children’s Drama Workshop 01932 765525 / 0785 0211786 www.theatrebugs.co.uk
Five days to cast, rehearse and present an original show where everyone has a part. Although there will be lots of hard work there will be lots of fun too. Suitable for both Stagecoach students and non-students aged six to 18. £130 (Siblings £95). Reserve your place with a £50 deposit.
Buzz! A Summer school for four to six year olds with singing, dancing and acting. Performance for friends and family. The Wells Centre, Spa Drive, The Wells, Epsom KT18 7LR: 25 - 29 Jul 9.00am - 12.00pm The Scout Hut, 106a West Street, Ewell Village, Epsom KT17 1XR: 25 Jul - 29 Jul 2.00pm 5.00pm. Workshops for children aged 3½ - eight year olds.
Sports
Stagecoach Merton Park 020 8942 3502 www.stagecoach.co.uk/mertonpark 1 – 5 Aug Workshop with performance for family and friends on the last day. 10.00 – 1.00pm for four- to seven-year olds; 10.00 – 4.00pm for eight- to 16-year olds. Contact Claire Guy for further details.
Activate Sport Croydon High School, Old Farleigh Road, Croydon CR2 8YB 0115 973 1676 www.netballroadshow.co.uk 26 - 28 Jul 9.30 - 4.30pm, extended hours (8.30 -5.30pm) available. International Netball Roadshow.
Stagecoach Shirley Shirley High School, Shirley Church Road, Croydon, CR0 5EF
Aberdour School, Burgh Heath; Royal Russell School, Croydon ; Whitgift School, Croydon Sutton High School, Sutton
Don’t Stop Believing - A “Glee”-ful week
01235 832222 www.madaboutsports.co.uk
Mon 25 -Fri 29 Jul
Mon – Fri 9.20 - 4.30pm, extended hours (8.00 – 6.00pm) available at extra charge. Mad About Swimming times: 4.30 - 6.00pm (8.00 - 9.30am at Whitgift).
Acing the 11+ exam G2Ex is an established tutoring company operating in the Croydon area. G2Ex aims to help children in Years 4 and 5 to prepare for the 11+ Exam. They offer a free assesment service to check on on your child’s strengths and weaknesses. G2Ex aims to offer a comprehensive curriculum, supported by regimented homework, weekly-specific tasks and good study habits. G2Ex says its unique and enterprising tutoring centre employs experienced and knowledgeable tutors who conduct stimulating classes, inspiring a healthy competition amongst the pupils. info@g2ex.co.uk. 0208 655 2271. 10
Call Purley on 0208 090 2938 Call North Cheam on 020 8644 0975 www.explorelearning.co.uk. Explore Learning North Cheam Centre, Sainsbury’s (inside), London Road, North Cheam 020 8644 0975 Purley Centre, Brighton Road, Purley 020 8090 2938 www.explorelearning.org.uk Classes running throughout the summer holidays. See box above. Contact the centres for more information or to book a free trial session. NumberWorks’n Words Sutton 020 8642 8884 www.numberworksnwords.com
Mad About Sports Coaching Weeks
020 8949 1116 shirley@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/shirley
Workshop with a free performance for family and friends on the last day. Four- to seven-year (mornings only); eight to18 year olds (all day)
Reinforcing the concepts learned during the summer term and introducing next year’s work will enable children to hit the ground running when they return to school in September.
Explore offers all families a free trial session at their education centres, which are located on Brighton Road in Purley and inside Sainsburys, London Road in North Cheam.
Mon - Fri 10.00 - 1.00pm. Performance at 12.30pm.
For further details about both workshops contact Zoe McCready.
Explore Learning centres are open throughout the school holidays and are a great way to keep young brains in gear during the long summer break.
All new members who join Explore Learning in July 2011 are eligible for 25% off the first months’ fees.
8 - 12 Aug
Help Billy Bee find his voice. A workshop taught by an experienced “Early Stages” (nursery level) teacher suitable for both Stagecoach students and non-students aged four to six. £75 (Siblings £50). Reserve place with £25 deposit.
Join Explore; get 25% discount
Sport specific coaching weeks. Ideal for sports-mad children who want to spend a week focusing on a particular sport. Sports include tennis, netball, football and swimming – check the website for dates / details of courses available at particular sites. For eight to14 year olds. See website for early booking discounts.
Mon 22 Aug – Fri 2 Sep 10.00 – Noon. Classes running weekdays throughout the summer holidays. See also story on page 8. Please ring for further details. Southern Tutors Held at Rosebery School, Epsom 0137 272 3947/07986 564 651 info@southerntutors.co.uk www.southerntutors.co.uk Intensive 11 Plus courses
Tuition
25-29 Jul; 22-26 Aug
11+ Holiday Learning Club Secondary school in Wallington, Surrey SM6 0800 242 5525 www.holidaylearningclub.com
Verbal and non-verbal reasoning, Maths and English classes for nine and ten year olds. Fees vary according to number of days attended. Contact the tutors (not the school) for further details.
Mon 1 Aug - Fri 19 Aug 9.00am - 3.30pm The Holiday Learning Club provides unique holiday club facilities for the parent whose child has 11+ exams ahead, particularly those sitting them this Autumn. The club offers daily 11+ practice tests and11+ tutoring as well as fun physical activity. It offers an affordable way to incorporate childcare with 11+ tuition. For nine and ten year olds. £250 per week. A £100 non-refundable deposit secures a place.
Surrey Tutors 020 8651 2105 Intensive individual or group classes in Croydon for Primary and Secondary school children. Holiday prices cut to £15/hour. Please ring for further details. For a more extensive list of events visit our website at www.families-LSB.co.uk
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July-August 2011
Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies July-August 2011
020 8669 5187
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down by the river London Wetland Centre www.wwt.org.uk/ The 42 hectare London Wetland Centre is the best urban wildlife site in Europe. Located next to the Thames it is close to the heart of the capital but as noted by The Times, “When you enter, you leave London behind.” It hosts a regular programme of children’s activities during weekends and holidays.
BBC Proms
London’s Parks
National Gallery
www.bbc.co.uk/proms
www.lollibopfestival.com
www.nationalgallery.org.uk/
Fri 15 Jul-Sat 10 Sept. TIP: If you go to a Sunday Prom, free parking is available near the Albert Hall, if you arrive before about 9.30am. For the restless child ‘promming’ in the arena means they are free to move around during the concert. Promming tickets are available only on the day. Remember to take snacks for a minipicnic.
TIP: 5 – 7 Aug, take your kids to the Lollibop Festival, Regent’s Park.
Tip: Take part in free Sunday activities for families, including storytelling for under fives and art activity workshops for five to 11 year olds.
Horrible Histories, Human Planet and Proms Plus Family Orchestra.
Adult/child tickets £23 in advance, £30 at the gate; Family ticket (4 people) £80 in advance, £108 at the gate. London’s parks offer green spaces; lawns for a picnic; space for children to run around, as well as playgrounds, lakes and other attractions.
A well as family activities, the gallery houses the national collection of Western European painting from the 13th to the 19th centuries. It is open 361 days a year, and the main galleries are free of charge.
Zilli Fish www.zillirestaurants.co.uk Celebrity chef Aldo Zilli has launched a campaign to promote family dining at top London restaurants.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew www.kew.org. Set aside a long day for a visit to Kew Gardens as there’s masses to see and do. There are family-friendly activities, and glass houses packed with amazing plants, set within 300 of acres of varied and beautiful landscape alongside the Thames.
Tip: Aldo has created a special children’s menu, available for free, to all under fives who dine at his Soho restaurant. 020 7734 8649
TIP: They hold storytelling in the Temple of Imagination on selected summer Sundays.
Syon Park http://lady-in-red.co.uk/syonpark.aspx TIP: 18 -21 August, Cinema Under the Stars - Watch your favourite films under the stars in the gardens of Syon Park. 7.30pm gardens remain open for guests to picnic; film to start approx 9.00pm; carriages at about 11.00pm. Adults £10+; Children (5- 14yrs) £5+. Please contact 020 8560 0882 for more information.
Richmond Park www.royalparks.gov.uk/Richmond-Park.aspx
Hampton Court www.hrp.org.uk www.jollydayout.com TIP: To round the day off, hop across the road to Bushy Park and let your children have some downtime in the locals’ favourite large playground. It’s beyond Diana fountain, just a short walk from the gate. Fri 26 –29 Aug, take your kids to a Jolly Day Out - Hampton Court’s Summer Festival.
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London Eye www.londoneye.com
Tip: Book to see ‘Inside the Night Garden Live’ ( 30 Jul – 13 Aug) in the Old Deer Park. Enter our online competition at www.families-LSB. co.uk to win a family ticket.
TIP: Arrive early if you can. The Eye opens at 10am and it is often possible to get tickets on the day for the earier timeslots. That way, poor weather is less likely to be a disappointment.
Otherwise, the park offers space to run around, fly kites and watch the deer. You could also teach your child to ride a bike there. We did.
Combine your experience on the London Eye with a 40 minute London Eye River Cruise and save 10% online.
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July-August 2011
down by the river Somerset House
Bank of England
Tower of London
Thames Clippers
www.somersethouse.org.uk
www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum
www.hrp.org.uk/toweroflondon/
www.thamesclippers.com
Tip: On a hot day take a towel and a change of clothes, with you so you don’t have to worry about the kids getting soaked while running through the 55 fountains dancing in the main courtyard. A fun way to cool off.
Sometimes known as the ‘Old Lady’ of Threadneedle Street, the Bank of England has a museum (free entry) which tells the story of the Bank of England from its foundation in 1694 to its role today as the United Kingdom’s central bank.
Home of the Crown Jewels.
TIP: Book a one day Roamer Ticket to hop on and hop off at the many piers during the day. Combine a trip on the river with a visit to the Tower of London and National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, making the journey part of the day.
Somerset House also hosts open-air concerts and films, contemporary art and design exhibitions and family workshops.
Summer fun (25 Jul – 2 Sep): ‘Come write with us’.
There are baby changing facilities located in the disabled toilet in the New Armouries café. There is also a female only baby care facility in the Brick Toilets behind the Jewel House.
Four routes operate daily between the Tate Modern, Canary Wharf and Waterloo pier, leaving every 20 mins.
Photo: Flickr www.CGPGrey.com
Open Mon – Fri 10.00 – 5.00pm.
The Tower of London offers a family ticket at £50 for 2 adults and up to 6 children aged 5-15 yrs (or £47 when you book online). Under 5s go free.
Maritime Greenwich www.nmm.ac.uk
Pizza Express Bankside
TIP: take a picnic and enjoy sweeping views of the Thames while your little ones let off steam with a good runaround.
www.pizzaexpress.com/ourrestaurants/3223/bankside.aspx
Seas, ships and stars all come together at the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site. Set within a huge park, visitors to the grand buildings, dating back to the 17th century, can take a breathtaking historical tour of our naval and astronomical history, taking in ships, royal barges, exhibitions and regular family activities featuring costumed guides.
Part of the family-friendly restaurant chain Tip: Try and get a table on the top floor by the windows. The restaurant overlooks the Thames and you can watch the river traffic go by, which helps to keep children entertained during your meal. 020 7401 3977
Open 10.00-5.00pm daily, admission free. 020 8858 4422.
Down by the River Ideas for places to go and
Photo: Flickr Ben Sutherland
tips to help you make the most of your family days out. For more days out information visit our website – www.families-LSB.co.uk
London is a fabulous place to take a family for a day out. Beach on the South Bank www.southbankcentre.co.uk As part of Southbank’s Festival of Britain 60th anniversary, tonnes of sand and 14 artistic beach huts are strung along the Thames banks (adjacent to the London Eye), with retro fish and chips and a vintage inspired funfair. Until 4 September 2011. 020 7960 4200
London Aquarium
Shakespeare’s Globe
www.sealife.co.uk/london
www.shakespeares-globe.org.
TIP: Arrive early if you can. Although big, the Aquarium does get busy, and little ones often want to spend ages in front of their favourite displays.
TIP:Check out the website for kids’ workshops, pre-show lectures and post-show Q&A sessions.
The big hit at the aquarium this summer is the addition of nine Gentoo penguins. Ask when the next feeding time will be, to see the penguins chomping on fish directly from their keeper’s hands.
Discover the secrets of Elizabethan special effects, from blood and gore to magic tricks and flying on stage. Listen to recordings from some of the most famous Shakespearean performances, and add your voice to scenes performed by Globe actors.
Here are some of the best places to visit with a family – most offer special deals for family groups and have tips and hints for the best way to plan a visit. Our ideal day out? Drive up early on a Sunday morning. Park for free near the Albert Hall (arrive by about 9am). Then visit the museums or go to a morning Prom concert. Have a meal; then wander along the South Bank and look at the activities and sights.
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what’s on
Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@families-LSB.co.uk
DIARY DATES FOR FAMILIES We try our best to make sure the information listed is correct, but please always phone before setting out in case details have changed.
DAVID LIVINGSTONE SCHOOL FAIR
Please also remember to say you saw the event listed in Families London-Surrey Borders.
SPECTACULAR SUMMER FAIR
We regularly update our website, so visit www. Families-LSB.co.uk for a more comprehensive and up-to-date guide to events in your local area. Weekend 2/3 July
Diggerland’s birthday on 2 July
Northwood Rd, Thornton Heath CR7 8HX Sat 9 Jul 12.00 – 3.00pm Free goody bag for the first 50 adults. Come along and have some fun. Adults £1, children FREE.
DIGGERLAND Medway Valley Leisure Park, Roman Way, Strood, Kent ME2 2NU. Medway Valley Leisure Park, Roman Way, Strood, Kent, ME2 2NU. 0871 22 77 007
9 Jul -3 Sep 10.00 – 5.00pm
MORDEN HALL PARK
0871 22 77 007 www.diggerland.com
The Snuff Mill, Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD
The Ultimate Adventure Park Experience where children and adults can ride and drive diggers and dumpers. Participants must be over 90cm tall. £17 per person.
020 8545 6850 (enquiries) www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-mordenhallpark-2 Sat 2 & Sun 3 Jul 12.00 – 4.00pm
ROSEBERY PARK, EPSOM KT18 5AT
ON SHOW: PLANET PLEDGE
01372 732000 www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk/yldxtreme
Take part in our planet pledge to take one step to help save our planet. Exhibitions, displays and information on how to live a greener lifestyle. FREE.
Sat 9 Jul 12.00 - 4.00pm
Thursday, 7 July EPSOM DOWNS RACECOURSE Epsom Downs, Surrey KT18 5LQ
YLD XTREME Organised by Epsom & Ewell Borough Council for young people aged 11 – 17 years. Lots of fun activities in addition to free informal advice from the many local organisations and clubs. The entertainment will include live bands, sporting challenges, street entertainers and inflatable games. FREE (Small charge for inflatable games).
01372 726 311 www.epsomdowns.co.uk/live
Thursday, 14 Jul
020 8643 1236 www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk
EPSOM LIVE! - SCOUTING FOR GIRLS
Every Fri 22 Jul - 26 Aug 2.00-4.30pm
Details as for 7 July entry.
FRIDAY AFTERNOON GARDEN PLAYTIME Every Friday, weather permitting, outdoor toys will be available in the garden for children to play with. Activities are included in house admission.
Weekend 16/17 July MORDEN HALL PARK
020 8542 5511 www.abbeyfest.co.uk
The Snuff Mill, Morden Hall Road, Morden, SM4 5JD
Abbeyfest the summer festival of music, comedy and
Friday, 22 July
1, Malden Road, Cheam SM3 8QD
MERTON ABBEY MILLS SW19
8 Jul – 29 Aug
Diggerland is having a birthday party. To be part of this special event they are selling a limited number of tickets which can only be purchased online and will not be available on the night. Avoid disappointment and purchase your tickets now for the ultimate adventure park experience for anyone over 90cm, when children and adults can ride and drive real diggers and dumpers.
EPSOM DOWNS RACECOURSE
Friday, 8 July
ABBEYFEST 2011
mail@diggerland.com
2 July 2011 6pm-9pm. COST: £9.99
WHITEHALL, CHEAM
EPSOM LIVE! - BEACH BOYS Epsom Live! evenings start with six horse races over the world renowned Derby course. This is followed by a live outdoor concert at dusk each week. The ticket price includes both racing and the music concert.
www.diggerland.com
020 8545 6850 (enquiries) www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-mordenhallpark-2
Bocketts Farm Park – Summer Family Fun on the Farm
Sun 17 Jul 12.00 – 4.00pm GREEN DAY OUT Find out how to live a greener lifestyle with stalls including local food, green gardening tips, eco-crafts and entertainment from live bands. Fun day out for all the family. FREE.
WHITEHALL, CHEAM theatre in South London with children’s activities, late night shopping and free live jazz and blues concerts every Friday night during the festival period.
Weekend 9/10 July THE CHILDREN’S TRUST Tadworth Court, Tadworth, Surrey KT20 5RU
1, Malden Road, Cheam, Surrey. SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk SUMMER HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN Sat 16 Jul – Sun 29 Aug There will be puzzles, trails and craft activities for children to take part in around the house. Activities are included in house admission.
01737 365 000 www.thechildrenstrust.org.uk
Thursday, 21 July
9 Jul 1.00- 5.00pm FAMILY FUN DAY Attractions include fairground rides, bouncy castles and miniature steam railway rides. A wide variety of refreshments are available. Adults, £2.50; children, FREE. 14
EPSOM DOWNS RACECOURSE EPSOM LIVE! - THE WANTED Details as for 7 July entry.
25th July to 4th September
Open daily 10am – 5.30pm New this summer, the Bocketts Animal Passport Trail. Find the animals around the farm and collect the various stamps to complete your passport. Daily activities include animal handling, goat milking, tractor rides, pony rides, gold panning and our famous pig racing. Suitable for ages birth to eight years. £8.50 adults and children three to 17 years. See their advert on page 16 for special discount offer.
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July-August 2011
what’s on
Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@families-LSB.co.uk
Weekend 23/24 July
Thursday, 28 July
MORDEN HALL PARK
EPSOM DOWNS RACECOURSE
The Snuff Mill, Morden Hall Road, Morden, SM4 5JD
EPSOM LIVE! - BLONDIE Details as for 7 July entry.
020 8545 6850 (enquiries) www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ main/w-mordenhallpark-2 Sun 24 Jul 10.30am, meet at Snuff Mill CYCLE THROUGH THE PARK Join in a group cycle and learn more about the health benefits of bikes and how to cycle safely. FREE.
SHABDEN PARK FARM High Road, Chipstead CR5 3SF 01737 552744 www.shabdenparkfarm.com Sat 23 Jul 10.00 – 4.00PM SHABDEN FARM PICNIC The open day focuses on events in the farming year and aims to provide an opportunity for visitors to experience farming activities first hand.
SPA VALLEY RAILWAY West Station, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5QY 01892 537715 www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk Sat 23 Jul MEET POSTMAN PAT AND JESS
Weekend 30/31 July OLD SURREY DOWNS & DOWNLANDS COUNTRYSIDE MANAGEMENT PROJECTS 01737 733933 in advance for further details or 07968 832523 on the event date only. Sun 31 Jul 11.00 - 3.00pm. FLEECY FUN AT HUTCHINSONS BANK NATURE RESERVE IN ADDINGTON, NEAR CROYDON. Open day hosted by the Old Surrey Downs Project with mini-beast safaris and guided walks around the reserve plus a chance to meet some of the livestock that graze this site, helping to manage the scrub.
Thursday, 4 August MORDEN HALL PARK The Snuff Mill, Morden Hall Road, Morden, SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 (enquiries) www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ main/w-mordenhallpark-2 11.00 – 3.00pm Have a fun-filled day out at the Spa Valley Railway. Southern trains from East Croydon directly connect with the Spa Valley Railway at Eridge, and joint tickets offering worthwhile savings are available from any Southern booking office. For birth to eight years. Adult: £9, Child: £4.50, Family (2A+2C) £23.00.
Thursday, 24 July MORDEN HALL PARK
WILD CHILD: WONDERFUL WILLOW Have a go at creating your own willow crafts. £4 per family of four + £1.50 per additional person
Weekend 6/7 August THE BARN, GOOSECROFT LANE, OFF BEECH RD, PURLEY. 07881 641 614 www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk
The Snuff Mill, Morden Hall Road, Morden, SM4 5JD
Sat 6 Aug 2.00 - 4.00pm
020 8545 6850 (Enquiries) www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ main/w-mordenhallpark-2
There will be a number of stalls selling quality new and second-hand baby and children’s items from birth to six years all under one roof. Ring for more information or visit website.
Thu 28 Jul 11.00 – 3.00pm WILD CHILD: BEAUTIFUL BUTTERFLIES Discover more about butterflies. £4 per family of four + £1.50 per additional person.
BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET
For a more extensive list of events visit our website at www.families-LSB.co.uk
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what’s on
Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@families-LSB.co.uk
MORDEN HALL PARK The Snuff Mill, Morden Hall Road, Morden, SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 (enquiries) www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-mordenhallpark-2 Sat 6 & Sun 7 Aug 12.00 – 4.00pm MR HATFEILD’S PARTY Help celebrate the 70th anniversary of the bequest of Morden Hall Park with a traditional party, like those that Mr Hatfeild used to host in the 1920s and 1930s. With games, activities and rides. Bring along a picnic and spend the day. FREE.
Thursday, 11 August
Bourne Hall Museum Children’s Club Bourne Hall, Spring Street, Ewell, Surrey, KT17 1UF 020 8394 1734 dbrooks@epsom-ewell.gov.uk
There will be lots of fun activities for children to take part in throughout the summer holidays, in and around Bourne Hall and the Ashley Centre BOURNE HALL 2 Aug - Walks: Horrible Ewell and Hidden Ewell 4 Aug - Discover the Home Front during WW2. Different am/pm sessions 9 Aug - Visit to the Victorian kitchens at Nonsuch Park Mansion House, Picnic and historic walk in park after.
18 Aug - Tudor London in morning and the Armada in the afternoon. 23 Aug - Walks: Horrible Ewell and Hidden Ewell 25 Aug - Gladiator school in the morning and the true story of King Arthur in afternoon. ASHLEY CENTRE 3 Aug - Meet an air raid warden and get to handle items from WW2 and make a gas mask case. 10 Aug - Try brass rubbing and learn to write your name in Ancient Egyptian.
11 Aug - Meet a Viking trader and his wife. Different am/pm sessions.
17 Aug - Meet an archaeologist and try mini digging.
16 Aug - Discover the history of the Earth with the Rockman. Different am/pm sessions.
24 Aug - Meet a Norman Knight and design and make a shield.
MORDEN HALL PARK
Weekend 20/21 August
Thursday, 18 August
11.00 – 3.00pm WILD CHILD: READY, STEADY, RECYCLE! Learn how to make recycling fun. £4 per family of four + £1.50 per additional person.
Friday, 12 August OLD SURREY DOWNS & DOWNLANDS COUNTRYSIDE MANAGEMENT PROJECTS Plough Lane, Roundshaw CR8 3QL 01737 733933 11.00 – 2.00pm Get crafty with the Old Surrey Downs. Children’s craft event at Roundshaw Downs. Entrance to site from the end of Plough Lane. Bring a picnic along.
16
MORDEN HALL PARK
MORDEN HALL PARK
The Snuff Mill, Morden Hall Road, Morden, SM4 5JD
The Snuff Mill, Morden Hall Road, Morden, SM4 5JD
020 8545 6850 (enquiries) www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-mordenhallpark-2
020 8545 6850 (enquiries) www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-mordenhallpark-2
11.00 – 3.00pm
Sat 20 & Sun 21 Aug 12.00 – 4.00pm
WILD CHILD: BRITISH BATS
ON SHOW: SNUFF STORY
Find out about bat habitats at Morden and design a bat mask. £4 per family of four + £1.50 per additional person.
Explore the fascinating history of the Snuff Mill. FREE.
Thursday, 25 August
7.30pm SUMMER THEATRE: MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM The Shakespearean classic performed by the Lord Chamberlain’s Men in the historic setting of the Morden Hall Park Rose Garden. Adult: £16, Child: £14 (tickets available from the National Trust shop).
MORDEN HALL PARK 11.00 – 3.00pm WILD CHILD: WEATHER WATCH Explore the power of the sun and enjoy some weather inspired games. £4 per family of four + £1.50 per additional person.
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July-August 2011
what’s on
Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@families-LSB.co.uk
Guildford Spectrum offers discounted Family fun tickets Guildford Spectrum’s popular Family Fun ticket is back and you can make fantastic savings on a day out with the kids when you swim, skate and bowl. Two-activity tickets are just £38.00 for a family of four. But our special offer voucher allows readers to upgrade to a three-activity ticket for free. To take advantage of this great offer cut out the voucher (on the back cover of this magazine) and present it at reception when buying your tickets. Family Fun tickets also offer great value for individual adults and junior visitors wanting a day out. Whether it’s Summer Holiday fun or weekend time-out, you can benefit from great savings on your swimming, skating and bowling. Just ask about the Family Fun ticket when you book. 01483 443322. www.guildfordspectrum.co.uk/
Bank holiday weekend 27/29 August CARSHALTON PARK Ruskin Road, Carshalton 020 8770 6611 www.ecolocal.org.uk Mon 29 August 10.30 to 8.00pm THE ENVIRONMENTAL FAIR
A day of fun, exciting and innovative things for children to participate including a variety of workshops. There will be soft play and storytelling areas, archaeological digging, relaxation sessions, kid’s fitness, rides, face painting and caricaturing. FREE.
MORDEN PARK London Road, Morden Mon 29 Aug 11.00-5.00pm; car boot sale at 10.00am BANK HOLIDAY FETE Attractions will include a football tournament, the Radio Jackie roadshow, live bands, charity and retail stalls, ferret racing, a fair and arena displays. FREE.
EPSOM DOWNS RACECOURSE Epsom Downs, Surrey, KT18 5LQ 01372 726 311 www.epsomdowns.co.uk Mon 29 Aug
community group stalls. The children’s area will include a cycle obstacle course, circus skills and face painting.
MERTON ABBEY MILLS, SW19
FAMILY FUN DAY With competitive racing and a wide range of children’s entertainment within the Grandstands, there will be something for the whole family.
020 8542 5511 www.abbeyfest.co.uk Mon 29 Aug 11.00 -5.00pm KIDSFEST
This event, organised by EcoLocal, showcases local sustainability initiatives and includes a range of entertainment, refreshments and stalls. There will be a Farmers’ Market area and lots of local craft and local
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what’s on
Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@families-LSB.co.uk
Central London
What’s on at the Theatre
Please also remember to say you saw the event listed in Families LondonSurrey Borders. We regularly update our website, so visit www.Families-LSB.co.uk for a more extensive and up-to-date guide to events in your local area.
Local Theatre
ROARY THE RACING CAR The number 1 little race car ‘zooms’ into theatres for the very first time in a brand new live stage show. It’s the day of the ‘Champion of Champions’ race at Silver Hatch and Roary is all set to battle it out with Maxi, Cici, and all the other cars to win the race and lift the trophy. Adults £14, Children £12, Family Ticket £46 or £40 if bought by May 31 2011. Thu 11 - Sat 13 Aug 1.00pm & 4.30pm THE JUNGLE BOOK
EPSOM PLAYHOUSE Ashley Avenue, Epsom KT18 5AL 01372 742555 www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk
work of Quentin Blake. Rhyme, rhythm and colourful characters all combine in this musical extravaganza inspired by some of Blake’s well-loved stories. For ages four to seven. £6.00 -£12.00.
VAUDEVILLE THEATRE 404 Strand, London, WC2R 0NH 0844 412 4663 www.vaudeville-theatre.co.uk Wed 6 Jul - Sun 4 Sep
6 Jul - 20 Aug various times
THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA
ARCHAEOLOGY: A WORM’S STORY Digging, exploring and searching for treasure... who knows what mysteries lie beneath the surface? A worm’s life is full of adventure and fun, excavating the world underground. Want to join him on his archaeological journey through the giant cardboard play structure? See what artefacts he finds.
Alan Atkins (Tiger) Devon Black (Mummy) Abbey Norman (Sophie)
After the show the children are all invited to explore and discover the archaeological site and see what is hiding underneath...For ages one to three. Tickets £7-£9
Sat 23 & Sun 24 Jul 1.00pm & 3.30pm
The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger. Tickets available from the box office or online (booking fees may apply).
BOB THE BUILDER Can Bob fix it? Yes he can. The lovable and iconic builder will be thrilling audiences in Epsom in this his latest live stage show. All tickets £13.50.
Illustration by Mark Chambers
LONDON WEST END THEATRES
A musical adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s classic tale tells the story of Mowgli the man cub who has been raised by a family of wolves. Adults £12, Children £8, Family Ticket £35 (£1.50 Booking fee per ticket).
POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB
FAIRFIELD HALLS Park Lane, Croydon CR9 1DG Box Office 020 8688 9291 or book online www.fairfield.co.uk A maximum booking fee of £2.25 per ticket may apply. Sat 23 Jul 1.00pm & 3.30pm & Sun 24 Jul 11.00am.
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Picture credit: Robert Workman
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020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com Jun – 6 Aug various times ALL JOIN IN AND OTHER STORIES By Quentin Blake, music and additional lyrics by Ben Glasstone. What’s the best way to have fun this summer? All Join In! Come to Polka for an irresistible mix of songs, stories and dancing, celebrating the
SECOMBE THEATRE 42 Cheam Road, Sutton SM1 2SS Box Office: 0208 770 6990 www.suttontheatres.co.uk Sat 2 Jul 2.00pm & 6.00pm WORLD OF DANCE Over 100 performers take you on a journey of fantastic show stopping numbers. There’s something here for the whole family to enjoy. Sun performances and Sat Mat £10; Sat eve £12.50.
www.kidsweek.co.uk 12 - 26 Aug 2011 KIDSWEEK IN THE WEST END Free childrens’ tickets to top London shows. The ticket deal is simple - one child (aged between five and 16) can go free to any participating show when accompanied by a full paying adult, and another two children can go for half price. Ticket details and activities will be announced on the website throughout the summer (visit the site to sign up for the Family Bulletin e-newsletter to keep you in the know). Booking lines open mid-July 2011. For a more extensive list of events visit our website at www.families-LSB.co.uk
Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders
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July-August 2011
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Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline... Please send info to our listings editor to be considered: listings@families-LSB.co.uk
Mother and daughter showing at Corner Gallery On show at the Corner Gallery in Carshalton this August are the paintings from mother and daughter team, Barbara Shaw and Gill ScottJones. Gill paints hyper-realistic images of winter scenery, ski slopes and local pubs. Her mother, Barbara paints using mixed media (collage, acrylic pastel etc).The exhibition runs from 8 August until 3 September at the Corner Gallery. www.corner-gallery.com
Art should not be neglected at secondary school Art is a subject often neglected in an overcrowded curriculum. Wandsworth based, Thames Christian College pupils demonstrated why it shouldn’t be sidelined, with its display of exceptional GCSE Art at the school’s Art Exhibition in June. Above, Beth Greeves took the brief to design a set of stamps for the Olympics next year. The Graphics element was taught by Steve Trimm, a creative director from the advertising industry who has worked with many big brands including Pringle, BA, Nokia and Links. Steve acted as both tutor and client. He set four commercial briefs from which pupils chose one to develop. The students then pitched their ideas to him in the style of a real client presentation. For more information please contact Thames Christian College on Tel: 020 7228 3933, www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk
Would you like some art with your coffee? A new cafe has opened near Belmont Station, designed to appeal to the artistic community. Arty Cafe is run by local artist Diana Wilkinson. She aims to attract anyone interested in art with classes, painting and an after-school club. Arty Cafe is open 7 days a week. 020 3581 8062
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Has a really useful website. Southern Tutors 11+ tuition GCSE and ‘A’ level Holiday courses 01372 723947 info@southerntutors.co.uk SURREY TUTORS CRB checked. ONLY £ 20 per hour
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Childminding
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Keyboard/Piano Tuition
ALLSTARS Childminding Services From £3.50ph. 07737 251868. www.allstars.vpweb.co.uk
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Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders
020 8669 5187
www.Families-LSB.co.uk
July-August 2011