Families London Surrey Borders Sep/Oct 2013

Biggest ever issue

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www.Families-LSB.co.uk

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Issue 52: Sept-October 2013

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Epsom and Ewell, Sutton, Croydon and nearby areas.

Huge local What's On

Back to School Clubs & classes

COME AND SEE WHAT MAKES US SPECIAL OPEN MORNING - SATURDAY 28 SEPTEMBER 9.30 A.M. - 12.30 P.M. TREETOPS NURSERY FOR BOYS & GIRLS

Aged 2-4 Set in two stunning locations in South Croydon & Purley

CUMNOR HOUSE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

Aged 4 - 11 Girls Prepared for 11+ Entrance Exams

CUMNOR HOUSE SCHOOL FOR BOYS

Aged 4 - 13 Boys Prepared for 11+ and 13+ Entrance Exams * Year 7 Entry - Join us for Year 7 & 8 and have another chance to achieve a place at your chosen senior school at 13+ Tel: Mrs Sharp on 020 8660 3445 or email: registrar@cumnorhouse.com

www.cumnorhouse.com

Call us on 020 8669 5187 or email Editor@Families-LSB.co.uk

News & Views www.Families-LSB.co.uk

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Issue 52: Sept-October 2013

EEke on FRase ta

Epsom and Ewell, Sutton, Croydon and nearby areas.

e

Biggest ever issue

Huge local What's On

Back to School Clubs & classes

Editor: Izabella Shaw 0208 669 5187 editor@Families-LSB.co.uk www.Families-LSB.co.uk

Call us on 020 8669 5187 or email Editor@Families-LSB.co.uk

Cover picture courtesy of Chelsea FC Soccer Schools ‘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.

Contents News and views . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2t3 Choosing an out of school activity . . . . 4 Clubs, classes and activities . . . . . . . . 5 Performing Arts — a training for life . . . 6 Clubs and classes directory . . . . . . 8z13 Babies and Toddlers . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Is your child ready to learn? . . . . . . . 16 Education news and ideas . . . . . 17 — 19 Choosing a Secondary School . . . . . . 20 Independent Schools’ directory . . 21 — 24 Independent Schools open days . . . . 25 Loads of things for families to do locally Diary dates for Autumn . . . . . . 26 — 27 Half-term activities & classes . . . . . . 28 Theatres and shows . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Haloween 2013 activities . . . . . 29 — 31 Classified advertisers . . . . . . . . . . 32

Join us on Twitter and Facebook Families Magazine is now Tweeting. We’re at @FamiliesLSB. Why not follow us? Our tweets can tell you whenever we update our site with competitions, news items, and when we update the What’s On section of our site with new venues and things to do.

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.

@FamiliesLSB Printed by Ridgeway Press Ltd 01256 300420, Basingstoke, Hants RG21 6XN. © 2013 Families London-Surrey Borders.

One-Stop-Cakeshop opens in Banstead Playbarn at Bocketts Farm gets heat Newly opened Boutique Cakery in Banstead, is your one-stop-shop for all things cake. In addition to selling cakes and cake decorating equipment, they offer cake and cupcake decorating parties and classes for children and adults & cake/cupcake decorating classes.

Classes are small, sociable and suitable for beginners and those with intermediate or advanced experience.

Special 10% discount offer to Families readers. See advert on p13 Boutique Cakery 163-165 High Street, Banstead SM7 2NT 01737 668121 www.boutiquecakery.com

At Bocketts Farm Park, the popular main play barn with slide has been refurbished and extended and will open fully in September.

Improvements made to the indoor area include heating for the colder months as well as fabulous new toilets with disabled access and baby change facilities.

A new adjoining extension has a comfortable seating area where adults can watch and have a coffee or cake.

While it’s fun to get outdoors and wrap up in the colder months, we hope that this warm indoor area will provide a warm relaxing space for adults and a fun comfortable play zone for the children,’ said Becky Gowing, General Manager.

Cookery Courses

Supper Club

From Fantastic Fish to Cake Pop Master Class, book a cookery course today.

Make family life easy with Supper Club – freshly made meals from JACE Catering.

Private Catering

Catering Apprenticeships

Name your Occasion Whether dining at home or organising an event let our first class chefs into your kitchen.

Start your career in the catering industry by training in an Apprenticeship.

Artwork setup @ 20%

Look out for the great value Off Peak Winter Weekday entrance rates too. Visit www.bockettsfarm.co.uk for more details.

Get granny-knitted knitwear online Have you grown out of your favourite granny-knit jumper? Is there a baby on the way, but no avid knitters in the family for those all-important baby booties?

Grannies Inc Marketplace is a brand new idea which offers grannies from all over the UK an online platform to sell their lovingly designed and hand-knitted products to those who love the personal touch that granny-knitted clothes, toys, soft furnishings and other accessories have to offer.

The Cabin Start your day with a morning coffee at The Cabin Open from 7.30am 16 Stanley Park Road, Wallington, Surrey

The service provides a great connection with the customer and the creator; all grannies are given a profile on the site so that customers can get to know the lady they are purchasing from. It offers men, women and children the opportunity to wear bespoke items that have been crafted with love and care. www.granniesinc.co.uk/marketplace/index.php

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September-October 2013

News & Views Families Competition

Party idea – creative – messy – fun.

WIN a ticket to the Polka (for four people)

Local mother of three, Amber Turan, has thought up a new party idea: Baking parties for children age 5 up.

We have a family ticket (4 people including at least one child and one adult) to the Polka Theatre’s environmental show: The Planet and Stuff (27 Sep – 26 Oct 2013).

She says they are creative, messy and lots of fun. The parties are aimed at parents looking for something different from 5th birthday upwards. There is no age limit.

Part live science demo, part hyperactive game show, The Planet and Stuff is the fact-packed, straighttalking climate change event with all the answers.

What could possibly go wrong?

The parties can be held at Pistachios in the Park at Banstead, or in your home.

Ages 9 – 13 (Strict lower age limit applies)

For other venues there are different party packages to choose from.

More details on the show can be seen at

Parties at Pistachios in the Park are £175.00 for up to 10 children.

A-MAZE-ing new maze at Hobbledown

Children benefit from having an educational experience as well as great fun. They learn what ingredients make a cake and a little about food hygiene too. They are always very proud of the end result and get to take the cakes home to share with their family.

Discover the new Merrymakers’ Maze — Hobbledown’s latest attraction for Summer 2013.

Mention Families magazine when booking your party and the birthday child goes free.

The secret labyrinth can be found in the Hobblings Playbarn and adds an extra element of play and discovery for guests to enjoy.

07792 663126 www.make-bake.co.uk

www.polkatheatre.com/whats-on/the-planet-and-stuff To enter visit www.families-LSB.co.uk/competitions Closing date for entries is 20 September 2013.

Fingerprint Art Freebie

Explore the wooden maze as it runs underneath the Merrymakers’ Shop and see if you can find the peephole to watch the Hobblers go about their work in the shop above.

Emily, 9, from Chessington, said: “The maze is cool.

You can even pop your head into the shop above.”

The maze is just one of Hobbledown’s new attractions for 2013. This year has also seen the introduction of underground tunnels, their Merrydown Parade, falconry displays, travelling puppet shows, High Ropes parties and more.

Hobbledown can be found at Horton Lane, Epsom, Surrey, KT19 8PT. Tel 0843 289 4979.

Visit www.hobbledown.com

Peter joins the Polka Peter Glanville is the new Artistic Director, at Polka Theatre. He joins the Polka from November and replaces Jonathan Lloyd who has held the post for the last seven years.

For the past eight years Peter has been Artistic Director and Chief Executive of the Little Angel Theatre, directing acclaimed productions including ‘The Snow Queen’, ‘Jellybean Jack’, Michael Rosen’s ‘The Magician’s Daughter’, ‘Skitterbang Island’ (an Opera co-produced with Polka) and ‘The Tempest’ (co-produced with the RSC).

See also competition for tickets to the Polka (above)

Free Drama Class Watch your child’s self-esteem soar with Perform’s unique drama, dance and singing classes.

Our weekly workshops will do wonders for their social, linguistic and physical development as well as being the best fun they’ll have all week.

Any orders taken up throughout September and October will receive a free pack of their own fingerprint or handprint Christmas cards (10 cards), from the Christmas range — see www.fingerprintart.me.uk.

Please email fingerprintjac@yahoo.co.uk with the code FamLSBXCARDS to claim your free cards when placing an order.

Classes for 4 –12 year o lds

perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk

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0845 400 1273

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September-October 2013

Clubs, Classes and Activities

Choosing an out-of-school activity Football or ballet, drama or Brownies – how do you know what, and how much, out-of-school activity is right for your child?

By Ellen Arnison

Ask yourself if your child gets something from the activity that they don’t get elsewhere and whether it complements what’s already going on.

Not long after your son or daughter disappears through the classroom door for the first time, the choice becomes bewildering. Their schoolbags come home stuffed with leaflets from this or that organisation promising all manner of benefits from enrolling in their classes. You may find yourself feeling guilty if you don’t sign up to everything.

For example, an active youngster who is already in the football team might be better balancing their activities with music or drama than adding another sport. Equally a child timid in the classroom may get benefit from being in a choir, if that boosts their confidence.

Please take a deep breath and relax. Extracurricular activities are not essential; many children do perfectly well without them.

However, there are some benefits from a few well-chosen groups, clubs or classes.

A more tricky area is an activity you’d like your child to do when they’d prefer to spend their after-school time at home relaxing. Only you can tell if they are genuinely exhausted by a day’s education or not. However, do take their views into account as there really is no point in forcing a child into something they hate. And some school stages are more taxing than others.

With the best will in the world, school cannot teach all the skills you might consider essential for modern life. Swimming lessons, for example, or cycling proficiency are crucial for safety.

After-school activities affect the whole family.

No one wants to spend all their time ferrying children from one activity to another while dinner that still needs to be prepared and other children become resentful.

In addition, carefully selected activities can bring other benefits that could help your child now and in the future.

They will get a huge confidence boost from participating in an enjoyable activity at which they are successful. A shy child, for example, may flourish in a dance class.

As well as learning new skills, more subtle benefits include fostering a sense of community, increasing self-sufficiency and allowing a child — particularly one in a large family — something they feel is their own.

Club time can also allow one-to-one time for other children.

While these advantages are very real, care must be exercised when choosing activities. Too many and the wrong ones will only leave everyone fed up and exhausted.

The easy choices are the ones your children are desperate to do.

Although beware of signing up for something just because your son or daughter’s best friend is doing it. This may not be a good enough reason.

Fun Science Parties!

Stress-Free Parties Fun Science Shows Crazy Experiments CRB Checked Entertainers Relax and Enjoy Age Range 6 - 12 Other Events - Please Contact Us For Details Rockets, Hovercraft, Slime, Candyfloss, Pink Potions, Dry Ice, Electrical and other themed events.

When you do decide on a class or club, take some time to check it out. Find out how long it has been running, do other parents recommend it, are the staff Disclosure or CRB checked?

While extra classes keep your children entertained and active, it’s also important that they have some unstructured time — even that they are allowed to feel bored. If they bounce from one organised thing to the next, they’ll never learn the important skill of amusing themselves.

Liat Hughes Joshi, author of Raising Children: The Primary Years, told Parentdish: “If you decide to do none at all, you won’t be shortchanging her if her after-school activity consists of nothing more than a TV programme, a snack and some good, old-fashioned playing.”

Choosing SEN activities

Children with special educational needs can benefit hugely from well-chosen extra-curricular activities.

Even with the best educational support, SEN children can often feel ‘less’ than their peers. They may be aware of their difficulties and differences and this can have a profound effect on their confidence.

Therefore an activity they can participate in successfully is a huge boost to their self-esteem. For example a dyslexic child, for whom school is a struggle, may blossom as a leading light in the dance troupe.

Equally there are other more educational and developmental benefits that make extra-curricular activities important. Dyspraxic youngsters, for instance, can find their co-ordination improves while doing karate or trampolining.

Clubs can be important social outlets for SEN children, perhaps giving them a chance to meet others facing similar challenges. The school or local authority will be able to advise about SEN groups in the area.

Call *020-8123-8697 or email *info@e-entertainers.co.uk or visit *www.e-entertainers.co.uk

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So only commit to out-of-school activities that fit comfortably into the schedule and budget. It may transpire that your time and money can be better spent on family activities at home.

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September-October 2013

Clubs, Classes and Activities Sing Along Comes To Banstead Sing Along, the local singing and movement group for under 5s, is to open in Banstead at Greenacre School for Girls in Sutton Lane.

Imaginative Drama Classes

Britt Adams, mother of three, started the lively sessions in 2001 in Purley and the popularity of the group has increased every year.

Each session is 70 minutes and Britt welcomes both boys and girls from approximately 10 months to the under 5s. With her infectious enthusiasm, Britt sings an extensive range of traditional and modern songs and rhymes which gets you moving. The sessions are run on a pay as you go basis — just £5 for the family.

All sessions start at 10am and also run in Coulsdon, Caterham, Purley and Wallington. For more information, please call Britt on 07941 532558 or visit www.singalong.org.uk.

Growing Buds 2 - 4 years Full Blooms 4 - 7 years Drama Academy 7 - 10 years Classes in Carshalton, Cheam, dramabuds Croydon & Worcester Park adventure 020 8669 2355 parties too

www.dramabuds.co.uk

Singing and Fun for the under 5s

• Just turn up and join in • No need to book W E Mondays - Banstead • No joining or N Tuesdays - Coulsdon registration fee Wednesdays - Wallington Thursdays - Caterham • Pay As You Go Fridays - Purley • £5 per family (adult with up to 3 children) 10.00 am - 11.10 am

Emma joins Monkey Music in Leatherhead Experienced actress Emma Morris is joining Monkey Music Leatherhead & Dorking. Emma has appeared in Annie – The Musical, ‘Me & My Girl’, ‘Little Shop of Horrors, ‘The Sound of Music’, ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ and ‘The Nat King Cole Story’.

www.singalong.org.uk

Emma has been attending Monkey Music Leatherhead & Dorking classes for the last year and a half with her daughter and has enjoyed the whole Rock’n’Roll (Babies from 3 months) and Heigh-Ho (Toddlers from 12 months) curricula and is about to enjoy Jiggety-Jig (2 & 3 year olds) as a parent.

Call Britt on 07941 532558

To book your free class call 01483 841 303, email leatherhead.dorking@ monkeymusic.co.uk or visit www.monkeymusic.co.uk

Explore the dramatic Fairytale Forest with Perform This term, Perform children in the London-Surrey Borders area will not just be having fun acting, singing and dancing each week, they’ll be exploring the magical and wonderfully exciting Fairytale Forest. They will be meeting many of the well-loved characters from the classic Fairy tales and countless cool new friends like the Funky Fairy. Don’t miss your chance to capture the magic as your children explore this fabulous fantasy world. Any interested 4 – 8 year old can try out the classes by attending a Free Trial Session.

Classes are held in Caterham, Dulwich, Ewell, Purley, Wimbledon.

Perform are offering a 10% discount on bookings for Tuesday sessions at Ewell & Wimbledon venues. The offer is valid September and October 2013.

Contact Perform on 0845 400 1273 or email enquiries@perform.org.uk or visit www.perform.org.uk

Forest School and bushcraft for all!

Explore the woodland

Den building Woodland Saturday club fun, Fire lighting and safety Holiday activities Woodland exploration Family activities Forest School projects Woodland Birthday Parties All our activities are fully risk assessed. www.wildwoodactivities.co.uk info@wildwoodactivities.co.uk 07735 389804

LUCY ROMANO LANGUAGES EL CLUB ESPAÑOL LE CLUB FRANÇAIS Spanish & French Fun Childrens Language Clubs Private Tuition & Adult Classes

info@lucyromanolanguages.co.uk Call Lucy : 07767 375074 www.lucyromanolanguages.co.uk

Top Hat launches new school in Ewell There is a lot happening at Top Hat Stage & Screen School Surrey this Autumn.

They will be launching a new school on Sunday mornings at Danetree Juniors, Ewell starting 22 September. Classes will be held between 10.00 – 1.00pm (10.00 – 12.00pm for 4 & 5 year olds).

They will also be offering a range of new classes, starting Saturday 21 September, at Stanley Park Infants, Carshalton including a L.A.M.D.A. course; Baby Ballet for 3-5 year olds and Street Dance/ Hip Hop Classes for all ages. These classes run for 10 weeks. Contact Sarah Dibley for further details and to book places. 01737 831184

For classes in Addiscombe, Mitcham, Croydon & Purley, call Melissa on 07939 520 638 For classes in Banstead, Epsom, Hooley & Wallington, call Jo on 07873 634292

www.tophatstageschool.co.uk surrey@tophatstageschool.co.uk

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www.diddidance.com

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September-October 2013

Clubs, Classes and Activities

Performing Arts -- a training for life by local Performing Arts teacher and TV star Neil McDermott us to form opinions on what we read, see or hear. At the theatre school I am involved in, the children have looked at themes including bullying; environmental issues; action and consequences; what is beauty and many many more. Dealing with and talking about issues helps the child have a stronger understanding of why the world is how it is, good and bad. I believe, by playing different characters, from watching different plays and reading, these stories, you increase your empathy and understanding of other people and it can quite literally make you a better person. Empathy is not something you are born with, it is something you learn. And it is one of the things that separates human beings from animals. It is an important social Lifeskill.

When I was in my early teens I took up drama and it shaped my life. My drama teacher at the time — Mr Frank Whateley, brother of actor Kevin, told me that he believed Theatre to be, A Training for Life. I agree and here is why.

By Training for Life I mean, and Frank meant, personal development.

Firstly and most obviously, confidence. I think children in this day and age are quite often painfully shy in public arenas. And, as someone who grew up both in the North of England and the South, I think the problem is greater in the South. Why that is, I’m not sure. When a child is in their own comfort zone, whether that be at home or with close friends they are often as free-spirited and full of conviction as you could ever hope them to be. However, when confronted with new people and new spaces the very same child can become clingy, introverted and unable to express themselves. This is down to confidence and self belief.

As a parent, you may believe that this is something they will grow out of as they get older, but in many cases the child never truly does grow out of it and that constantly holds them back in whatever field of business or walk of life they enter. It may even inform their choices of career and lifestyle as they strive to avoid having to leave their comfort zone. Drama quite obviously breaks down those barriers of having to stand up in front of people, talk in front of people and present yourself or a character to an audience. These basic skills are essential in most careers.

Being able, without fear, to translate what you are thinking clearly to an audience of people is a Lifeskill.

Second is working in a group and as a team.

Now this can be learnt in many different ways. Quite often children play sports and this is a great way to learn about working as a team to get a result. I played a lot of sport as a child and young man growing up. I found the camaraderie brilliant and the chance to express myself physically via a football or rugby or whatever else an amazing and fun outlet for my emotions. I

encourage sport for all children. Drama does offer something slightly different, as sport often deals with single sex teams, and obviously drama is for all. The bonding experience of a cast who has just come offstage from an enjoyable performance is almost impossible to replicate. The workplace as an adult is rarely single sex and I think it is important for young people to replicate this in some part of their upbringing. In South-east England there are a lot of single sex schools (I went to one myself), which I have no problem with at all.

But it’s worth a thought whether it is healthy to be completely separate until you go to university/college/work. Being able to work effectively in a team is a life skill.

In 2010 My wife and I set up Mishmak youth theatre for 5 – 18 year olds, in Sutton, Surrey.

We aim to use drama, dance and song to help children develop into more confident well-rounded people with an awareness of the world around them. The shows that are put on are devised by the children around themes they choose themselves. Each child is given their chance to shine and we have a very healthy group ethos in the way we work.

We encourage individual students to push through their own barriers. For some that may be dancing in a group routine, for others it may be singing a duet or performing a monologue. I recommend drama to everyone. Have a look in your local area to see what is available.

Neil

Thirdly, and lastly, is learning through art, scripts and drama about human behaviour.

When involved in Drama you can’t help but come across life issues. Stories hold up a mirror to us and to society in general and ask

TWO IAL TR E W EK LABLE I AVA

Venues in Croydon and more

T R A T S T N E CONFID A GIVE YOUR CHILD

020 8447 4530

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www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk

JIGSAW WEEKEND PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOLS

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September-October 2013

News & Views Clubs, Classes and Activities

S

DRAMASINGINGDANCE

cArhts Schools a o c e e r g t ta Thea

Inspiring and enriching young people through the performing arts

Mishmak Youth Theatre operates on Saturdays during term time.

n Ope Day!

Ages 5 - 18 years.

Training in drama, dance and singing.

Based at Sutton High School.

For 4-18 year olds, after school, at weekends and holiday workshops.

Perform 2 shows a year – one at Christmas and one in July.

Stagecoach Purley & Croydon Open Day! At our open day young people can try our singing, dancing and drama classes. We strive to create a buzzing, inspirational environment in which the students feel encouraged to reach their full potential whether they are coming to develop confidence, make friends or with a professional performing arts career in their sights.

www.mishmak.co.uk 07581681202

info@mishmak.co.uk

Stagecoach in Purley

Friday 20th September at Riddlesdown Collegiate, Honister Heights, Purley, CR8 1EX 4.15pm-5.45pm for 4-6 years & 4.30pm-7.30pm for 6-18 years

Stagecoach in Croydon

Saturday 21st September at Croydon High School, Old Farleigh Rd, Selsdon, CR2 8YB 2.30pm-5.30pm for 6-18 years

Call: 0845 265 7083 to book a place contact: croydon@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/croydon

www.GBAcademies.co.uk

Australia’s largest

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Your local Ready Steady Go Kids classes are held at:

Epsom Methodist Church Ashley Road, Epsom Bluegates Scouts Hall 1 Bluegates, London Road, Ewell

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Bourne Hall Spring Street, Ewell

FREE

Term 1 begins 9th September 2013 Term 2 begins 25th November 2013

NO OBLIGATION

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Enrolments taken throughout the term

Sports covered: Football Tennis Basketball Athletics Hockey Rugby Golf AFL Cricket T-ball

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www.rsgk.co.uk info@rsgk.co.uk 0800 690 6591 Follow us on Like us on

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ReadySteadyGoKidsUK

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September-October 2013

Clubs, Classes and Activities

Clubs and Classes directory

Looking for an activity to help your child with fitness, co-ordination, confidence, music or academic ability? We’ve compiled the most comprehensive guide in the area just for you.

BABIES & PRE-SCHOOLERS CR0 Cherry Stars Brit School of Performing Arts. Classes in music,drama & dancing. For 4—7 year olds.

020 8653 1662 / 07746 140 386 Diddi Dance Addiscombe, Croydon, Mitcham, Purley. All year round funky classes & parties for pre-school girls & boys Melissa: 07939 520 638 www.diddidance.com Dramabuds Kidspace Croydon.

Term-time classes and holiday workshops for 2—7 year olds exploring stories through drama, movement and song.

Becca Wall: 020 8669 2355 www.dramabuds.co.uk GBMAA Epsom & Croydon Martial Arts Academy 54—58 Frith Road, Croydon CR0 1TA All round school of Martial Arts excellence teaching Martial Art skills following a belt syllabus, self defence and life skills concentrating on important elements such as Confidence, Self Esteem, Listening, Perseverance, Courage, Focus and Discipline. For ages 4+ Saffron Power: 0845 177 5001 www.gbacademies.com Little Kickers Waddon Leisure Centre, Purley Way, Croydon CR0 4RG FA-approved Football coaching for children aged 18 months—7 years. An overall child development programme, where learning’s a Ball.

Tim Jardine: 01737 761601 www.littlekickers.co.uk MAD Academy Croydon Shirley Parish Halls, 81 Wickham Road, Shirley, Croydon CR0 8TB All year round classes and children’s parties for babies, toddlers and preschool children from walkers—4 years packed with music, movement, rhythm and dance. They pride the classes on being free spirited and relaxed with a fun, funky and

Stagecoach Coulsdon

physical approach. Debbie Mason: 01689 844848 www.madacademy.com Sing & Sign.

Becca Balcombe: 0203 5360111 Totstars Football 07540 932 356 Tumble Tots South Croydon, Thornton Heath, Coulsdon, & Caterham.

Classes to develop children’s physical skills of agility, balance, co-ordination and climbing with provision for special needs children. Antonio Girling: 07743 103 208 www.tumbletots.com CR2 Atlantis Swim School Ltd Whitgift School, Haling Park, South Croydon CR2 6DT Ongoing swimming lessons in small groups. For ages from 18 months old. Weekend and weekday lessons. 020 8335 3536 www.atlantisswimschool.co.uk Jigsaw Performing Arts School Whitgift School, Haling Park, South Croydon CR2 6DT Drama, Dance and Singing for students aged 3 to 18 years. Two week trial available.

020 8447 4530 www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk Little Kickers Sanderstead United Reform Church Hall, Sanderstead CR2 0HB; Whitgift School Sports Centre,

o y ed a o W thd s to r B i r t ie Pa

Children’s Courses

Haling Park CR2 6YT. For contact details see entry in CR0.

MAD Academy Croydon St John’s Church Hall, Upper Selsdon Road, South Croydon, CR2 8DD; Woodland Children’s Centre, At Gilbert Scott Primary School, Farnborough Avenue, South Croydon, CR2 8HD For contact details see entry in CR0 Debbie Mason: 01689 844848 www.madacademy.com Monkey Music South Croydon and Caterham St Paul’s Church Hall, South Croydon CR2 7HF. Preschool music classes for babies and young children aged 3 months—3 years. The progressive Monkey Music curriculum has been written by classically trained musicians and introduces music to very young children in a way they can easily understand and enjoy. Lessons incorporate action songs and rhymes; music and movement; fun with percussion and musical games.

Karen Chandler: 020 3251 1061 www.monkeymusic.co.uk Sing & Sign.

Becca Balcombe: 0203 5360111 Spotlights Theatre School South Croydon, Sanderstead, Selsdon and West Wickham. Drama, dance &

singing classes for 4—7 years. An introduction to drama, dance and singing, building self confidence along the way. Free trial classes available.

Faye Willingale: 020 8460 5711 www.spotlightstheatre.co.uk Tumble Tots St Augustine Church South Croydon CR2 6BA. For 6 months to school age. For contact details in CR0 entry.

Tumble Tots Sanderstead United Reformed Church Hall CR2 0HB. For walkers to 7 years. For contact details see entry in CR0.

CR3 Little Fishes Swimming Lessons Classes for 3 months+.

Dotty: 07834 737 211 Monkey Music South Croydon and Caterham The Arc, Caterham. For contact details see CR2 entry.

Sing Along St Mary’s Church Hall, Caterham Singing & Movement classes for the under 5s. Fun, lively and friendly sessions singing traditional & modern songs and rhymes to make you skip, jump, hop and wriggle even when sitting down. Britt Adams: 07941 532 558 www.singalong.org.uk Tumble Tots Queens Park Pavilion Caterham CR3 5RB. 6 months to school age—for contact details see entry in CR0 CR4 Diddi Dance For contact details see entry in CR0.

First Class Learning Mitcham Library, CR4 2YR. A personalised & systematic program of English and Maths tuition which covers the National Curriculum (Key Stage 1-4). For ages 3+.

Neela and Jitu Patel: 020 8646 6791 www.firstclasslearning.co.uk Little Kickers Ivy Gardens Childrens Centre, Ivy Gardens, Mitcham CR4 11JW. For contact details see entry in CR0

Modern, dedicated sports facilities.

Activities take place in School grounds.

• Swimming • Dance • Tennis • Zumbatomic

For ages 4+

Croydon High Sports Club, Croydon High School, Old Farleigh Road, Selsdon, Croydon CR2 8YB Tel: 020 8657 9313 Fax: 020 8260 7461 Email: croydonhighsportsclub@cry.gdst.net www.croydonhighsportsclub.co.uk

8

www.littlekickers.co.uk

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

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September-October 2013

CR5 Diddi Dance Coulsdon, Wallington, Epsom, Banstead. All year round funky classes & parties for pre-school girls & boys. Jo: 07873 634 292 www.diddidance.com Little Kickers St Andrews Church, Coulsdon CR5 2DN For contact details see entry in CR0.

MAD Academy Croydon 17th Purley Scout Group, Rear of St John’s Church Hall, Marlpit Lane, Old Coulsdon, CR5 1WQ. Contact details in CR0 entry.

Sing Along Coulsdon Community Centre, Coulsdon CR5 3BE For contact details see entry in CR3.

Tumble Tots Coulsdon Methodist Church Hall CR5 2BE. Walkers to school age. For contact details see entry in CR0.

CR7 First Class Learning St Stephens Church, Thornton Heath CR7 7NH. A personalised & systematic program of English and Maths tuition which covers the National Curriculum (Key Stage 1—4).

For ages 3+. Bhavini Patel: 01483 728 007 www.firstclasslearning.co.uk Tumble Tots Thornton Heath Leisure Centre, CR7 8LF. 6 months to school age.

For contact details see entry in CR0.

CR8 Atlantis Swim School Ltd Thomas More School, Russell Hill Road, Purley CR8 2XP. For contact details see entry in CR2.

Diddi Dance For contact details see entry in CR0.

MAD Academy Croydon Purley United Reformed Church, 906 Brighton Road, Purley CR8 2LN; St Swithuns Church Hall, Groveland Road, Purley CR8.

For contact details see entry in CR0.

Monkey Music South Croydon and Caterham Christ Church, 861-863 Brighton Road, Purley CR8 2BN. Contact details in CR2 entry.

Sing Along St Mark’s Church Hall, Purley CR8 3QQ For contact details see entry in CR3.

Sing & Sign.

Becca Balcombe: 0203 5360111 Tumble Tots Kenley Memorial Hall CR8 5AB. Walkers to 3 years. For contact details see entry in CR0.

KT4 Atlantis Swim School Ltd Linden Bridge School, Grafton Road, Worcester Park KT4 7JW. For contact details see entry in CR2.

Dramabuds Worcester Park Library; The Community Hall, The Hamptons. No classes Autumn 2013. For contact details see entry in CR0.

Little Kickers Worcester Park.

020 8286 6038 www.littlekickers.co.uk KT9 Atlantis Swim School Ltd Holiday Inn Hotel, Leatherhead Road, Chessington KT9 2NE. For contact details see entry in CR2 KT17 Atlantis Swim School Ltd Epsom College, College Road, Epsom KT17 4JQ. Contact details in CR2 entry.

Diddi Dance For contact details see entry in CR5.

GBMAA Epsom & Croydon Martial Arts Academy Rainbow Centre, Epsom, KT17 1BN. Contact details in CR0 entry. www.gbacademies.com Monkey Music United Reformed Church, London Rd, Ewell KT17 2BB. Preschool music classes for ages 3

9

months—4 years. Dinah Nightingale: 01932 223309 www.monkeymusic.co.uk/area/ banstead-claygate-esher-epsom Ready Steady Go Kids Fun and active classes aimed at developing your child’s motor skills and instilling a lifelong love of active lifestyle. For ages 2½—6 years with children split into (4 – 6 years) various age groups for a 45 minute class.

A fantastic introduction to the fun of performing Term-time classes. 0800 690 6591 arts. Each session includes dance, drama and www.rsgk.co.uk singing and are structured to help your child Star Steppers Performing build self confidence, work in a team, learn Arts Stoneleigh. 07445 030 500 actively and realise their potential. Different material every term finishes with a fantastic Tumble Tots 4th Ewell Scout Group costumed performance to family and friends.

Hall, Ewell KT17 2SA. Classes for children from walking to school age to develop physical skills of agility, balance, co-ordination and climbing.

Debbie Knight: 07710 424 460 www.tumbletots.com KT18 are available at all classes.

Little Kickers Epsom Downs Call us on 020 8460 5711 now or visit 01737 300624 www.littlekickers.co.uk www.spotlightstheatre.co.uk to book.

MAD Academy Epsom St Bromley | Croydon | South Croydon | Orpington Christopher’s School Hall, Downs Road Purley | Sanderstead | Selsdon | West Wickham Epsom KT18 5HE. Classes for under 5s that are fun, educational and bursting with energy. Children make music, sing & dance to lots of popular songs, as well as funky original MAD Academy ones. SUA129 STS Families London Surrey Little Stars Ad 87x85.indd 1 11/2/11 Karen Morgan: 01372 210378 www.madacademy.com Monkey Music Epsom Methodist Church Hall, Ashley Rd, Epsom KT18 5AQ Monkey Music – award-winning music classes for babies and children. Classes for 3 months to 4 year olds Janine: 01483 841 303 www.monkeymusic.co.uk Ready Steady Go Kids Epsom Methodist Church Scouts Hall, KT18 5AQ For contact details see entry in KT17.

KT19 Little Kickers All Saints Church, Epsom KT19 9QY. Fun, indoor football classes all year round. Their motto is ‘play not push’ and strive to ensure all children learn to enjoy football. For ages 18 months—4 years. Claire Richardson: 01932 847439 www.littlekickers.co.uk KT20 MAD Academy Epsom St John the Evangelist Church Hall, The Avenue, Tadworth KT20 5DB. For contact details see entry in KT18.

KT21 MAD Academy Epsom St Michael’s Church Hall, The Marld, Ashtead KT21 1RS. Contact details in KT18 entry.

Monkey Music Ashtead Peace Memorial Hall, KT21 2BE For contact details see entry in KT18.

SE25 First Class Learning South Norwood Methodist Church, (Opposite Stanley Halls) SE25 6EG. A personalised Friendly, knowledgeable staff & systematic program of English and Maths tuition which covers the National Music courses for children and adults Curriculum (Key Stage 1-4). For ages 3+.

Group lessons from only £12/50mins Simone Farnon: 020 8402 2150 www.firstclasslearning.co.uk Guitar, Bass, Drums, piano/keyboards SM2 vocal and saxophone tuition available in Dynamic Dance Sutton. Emily: our purpose-built teaching studios 07879 206 417 www.dynamicdance.org.uk Workshops and masterclasses Gymboree Cheam Cheam Sports Club, Peaches Close, Cheam Village SM2 Regular live music events 7BJ. All year round classes which utilise Free Parking a unique and impressive combination of music, movement, props, imaginary play See our great range of instruments and sheet music and custom-designed and patented apparatus, all to create a fun and magical 020 8642 2838 info@suttonmusiccentre.co.uk world where children learn, thrive and www.suttonmusiccentre.co.uk most importantly have fun. For ages 6 weeks—5 years. 07990 761 259 35 St Nicholas Way, Sutton, SM1 1JB www.gymboree-uk.com/cheam

Learn to dance, act & sing Little Stars

New term now booking!

Free trial sessions

01293 774051

Your Hub for making music

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

14:16:04

020 8669 5187

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September-October 2013

Clubs, Classes and Activities

PERFORMING ARTS CR0 Cherry Stars Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4—7 year olds.

020 8653 1662 www.cherrystars.co.uk Dramabuds Kidspace Croydon.

Term-time classes and holiday workshops for 2—7 year olds exploring stories through drama, movement and song. Becca Wall: 020 8669 2355 www.dramabuds.co.uk Stagecoach Theatre Arts Shirley Shirley High School, Shirley CR0 5EF. Dance, drama and singing tuition designed to give great performing arts training whilst teaching skills for life. For ages 4—18 years.

Stuart Burrows: 020 8949 1116 www.stagecoach.co.uk/shirley CR2 Jigsaw Performing Arts School For contact details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR2.

Spotlights Theatre School South Croydon,Sanderstead, Selsdon & West Wickham. For contact details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR2.

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Croydon Croydon High School, Selsdon CR2 8YB. Dance, drama and singing tuition. Their dedicated team of talented teachers work with students to develop confidence and self belief through singing, drama and dancing.

They offer an encouraging environment

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for shy children who need that extra support or for children wanting to thrive in the performing arts. Please do give them a call to tell them about your son or daughter. For ages 4—18 years.

Rachel Betts: 0845 265 7083 www.stagecoach.co.uk/croydon CR3 Perform Caterham Centenary Hall, Essendene Road, Caterham CR3 5PA Drama, dance and singing classes for ages 4—8. Autumn 2013 theme: Fairytale Forest. Whilst children have the best fun of the week, they are also learning confidence, communication, concentration and co-ordination skills at the same time, giving them a head start in life. Free trial session available. Lucy: 0845 400 1273 www.perform.org.uk Star Steppers Performing Arts Caterham 07445 030 500 CR4 Stagecoach Theatre Arts Mitcham Haslemere Primary School, Mitcham. Dance, drama and singing tuition in a safe and fun environment for students aged 4—18 years.

Claire Guy: 020 8942 3502 www.stagecoach.co.uk/mitcham CR5 Stagecoach Theatre Arts Coulsdon Woodcote High School, CR5 2EH. Join the UK’s largest part-time theatre school. Classes are run by professional actors and as well as gaining valuable skills in musical theatre, children grow in confidence and self-esteem. For students aged 4—18 years.

Zoe McCready: 0845 078 0805 www.stagecoach.co.uk/coulsdon Surrey Ballet Masters Coulsdon Sixth Form College Theatre, CR5 1YA For ages 7—18 years. Monthly classes for gifted young dancers. Term time only. A fantastic opportunity for talented ballet dancers to work with a professional ballet dancer within non-syllabus classes, learning solos in the tutus provided, being nurtured and inspired.

07958 725 862 www.surreyballetmasters.co.uk ot

CR8 Get Fired Purley. Ceramics painting.

020 8660 3188 www.getfired.co.uk Kids Art Room Purley For 7-17 year olds. Term time only classes held at the designer’s home in Purley. Art lessons for young children and teenagers, adults groups, one-to-one adults and one-toone children. KidsArtRoom help your child enter the world of arts and crafts in a fun and friendly manner. Children learn drawing skills, colour theory, perspective, proportion & composition as well as crafts and design techniques.

Olga Casademunt-Garre: 07963 784 220 www.kidsartroom.com KT17 Arty Kids Club 0203 070 2323 / 07719 502 965 www.artykidsclub.com SM3 Village Ceramics Cheam.

020 8661 7837 SM6 Glazed All Over Ceramics Studio 020 8647 6463

Sp

Little Kickers St Andrew’s Church, Cheam SM2 7HF. For contact details see entry in CR0.

Tumble Tots St Andrews Church, Cheam SM2 7HF. Classes for children from walkers—5 years. For contact details see entry in KT17.

SM3 Dramabuds Cheam Library. For contact details see entry in CR0.

MAD Academy Sutton The Parochial Rooms, 42 The Broadway, Cheam, Sutton SM3 8BD The MAD Academy approach is fun, funky and physical and they pride themselves on being free spirited and relaxed. Classes and children’s parties are packed with music, movement, rhythm and dance.

The curriculum is carefully designed to develop and stimulate children at every stage. Pauline Llewellyn: 01372 372 942 www.madacademy.com Sing & Sign. The original British baby signing programme. Alex Ashison: 07932 443 809 www.singandsign.co.uk Star Steppers Performing Arts Cheam. Hannah and Anna: 07445 030 500 www.star-steppers.com SM4 Little Kickers Bishopsfords Art College SM4 6DU. For contact details see entry in CR0.

SM5 Dramabuds Carshalton Beeches Baptist Church; West Street Evangelical Church Carshalton. For contact details see entry in CR0.

MAD Academy Sutton Muschamp Children’s Centre, Carshalton SM5 2SE For contact details see entry in SM3.

Sing & Sign. For contact details see entry in SM3.

Totstars Football 07540 932 356 SM6 Diddi Dance For contact details see entry in CR5.

MAD Academy Sutton Holmwood Hall, Holmwood Gardens, Wallington SM6 0EU For contact details see entry in SM3.

First Class Learning Holy Trinity Parish Church, Wallington SM6 8BL. A personalised & systematic program of English and Maths tuition which covers the National Curriculum (Key Stage 1-4).

For children aged 3+.

Sejal Littlebury: 020 8395 6813 www.firstclasslearning.co.uk Sing Along. Crusader Hall, Wallington SM6 0TE For contact details see entry in CR3.

SM7 Diddi Dance For contact details see entry in CR5.

Little Kickers Banstead 01737 300624 www.littlekickers.co.uk Monkey Music Banstead Centre, The Horseshoe, Bolters Lane SM7 2BQ. For contact details see entry in KT17.

Sing Along. Greenacre School for Girls, Banstead SM7 3RA For contact details see entry in CR3.

Sing & Sign. For contact details see entry in SM3.

Tumble Tots St Peters Church Hall, Woodmansterne SM7 3NR. Classes for walkers to 3 years. For contact details see entry in KT17.

Jigsaw Performing Arts

ART & CRAFT CR3 MediaKids. 07958 001 363

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CR8 Perform St Barnabas Church Hall, Purley CR8 2HR For contact details see entry in CR3.

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Croydon Riddlesdown Collegiate, Honister Heights, Purley, CR8 1EX For contact details see entry in CR2.

KT4 Dramabuds Worcester Park Library. For contact details see entry in CR0.

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Worcester Park Cuddington Community Primary School, KT4 7DD. Dance, drama and singing tuition in a safe and fun environment. For students aged 4—18 years.

Lucy Moorby: 0800 9150 199 www.stagecoach.co.uk/worcesterpark KT17 Perform Bourne Hall, Ewell KT17 1UF. For contact details see entry in CR3. See p5 for details of discount on offer at this venue.

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Epsom Bourne Hall, Ewell KT17 1UF; Wallace Fields Junior School, KT17 3BH. For ages 4 to 18 years. Term time and holiday workshops. Contact for provision available for special needs children.

Excellent quality training in dance, drama and singing. Stagecoach Epsom say they have an excellent reputation with very high standards. They cater for every child and currently have 2 students In ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’, ‘Matilda’ and ‘Billy Elliot’ in the West End. Ellie Marsden: 020 8642 3500 www.stagecoach.co.uk/epsom KT18 Dandelion Theatre Arts Epsom Jennai Alberts: 01737 215 749 Stagecoach Theatre Arts Epsom Rosebery School, Epsom KT18 7NQ. For contact details see entry in KT17.

KT21 Dandelion Theatre Arts.

Ashtead Jennai Alberts: 01737 215 749 SM1 Mishmak Youth Theatre Sutton High School for Girls, SM1 2AX Mishmak Youth Theatre offers training and classes in singing, dancing and drama on Saturdays during school term time.

Opened in January 2010 with two age groups and have quickly expanded to four: 5-8 (Juniors); 9-11 (Intermediate 1); 12-13 (Intermediate 2); 14-18 (Seniors). Members perform 2 shows a year, in December and July. Mishmak is a friendly and inclusive school. Contact for provision available for special needs children.

Michelle Edwards: 07581 681 202 www.mishmak.co.uk SM2 Dynamic Dance Sutton.

Emily: 07879 206 417 www.dynamicdance.org.uk Stagecoach Theatre Arts Sutton Overton Grange School, Sutton SM2 6TQ. Part time training in drama, singing and dance. Confidence building classes taught in a nurturing and caring atmosphere where all children and

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

020 8669 5187

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September-October 2013

Clubs, Classes and Activities teenagers have the opportunity to shine. They say their classes are first class. For students aged 4—18 years.

Jennifer Jones: 01737 270060 www.stagecoach.co.uk/sutton SM3 Dramabuds Cheam Library. For contact details see entry in CR0.

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Cheam Nonsuch High School for Girls, Cheam SM3 8AB. Dance, drama and singing tuition in a safe and fun environment for performing arts students aged 4—18 years.

Lucy Moorby: 0800 9150 199 www.stagecoach.co.uk/cheam SM5 Dramabuds Carshalton Beeches Baptist Church; West Street Evangelical Church Carshalton. Term-time classes and holiday workshops for 2-10 year olds exploring stories through drama, movement and song.

Becca Wall: 020 8669 2355 www.dramabuds.co.uk Stagecoach Theatre Arts Sutton Carshalton High School for Girls, SM5 2QX; The New Stanley Park High School, Damson Way, Carshalton SM5 4NS For contact details see entry in SM2.

Top Hat Stage & Screen School Surrey Stanley Park Infants School, Stanley Park Road, Carshalton SM5 3JL For ages 4—17 years. Term time classes. Part Time Theatre Arts Training Sara Dibley, Surrey Principal: 01737 831184 www.tophatstageschool.co.uk SM7 Stagecoach Theatre Arts Epsom Beacon School, SM7 1AG. For contact details see entry in KT17.

SW19 Perform Trinity United Reform Church, London, SW19 4AA; Pelham Primary School, Wimbledon, London, SW19 1NU. For contact details see entry in CR3. See p5 for details of discount on offer at these venues.

SW20 Stagecoach Theatre Arts Merton Park David Lloyd Raynes Park, Bushey Road, Raynes Park SW20 8TE. Dance, drama and singing tuition in a safe and fun environment. For students aged 4—18 years.

Claire Guy: 020 8942 3502 www.stagecoach.co.uk/mertonpark

SPORTS CR0 GBMAA Epsom & Croydon Martial Arts Academy 54—58 Frith Road, Croydon CR0 1TA For contact details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR0.

CR2 Atlantis Swim School Ltd Whitgift Boys School, South Croydon CR2 6LN. For contact details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR2.

Little Kickers

Croydon High Sports Club Croydon High School, Old Farleigh Road, Selsdon, South Croydon CR2 8YB Swimming, Tennis and Dance classes for ages 4—12 years. Ceri Grimwood: 020 8657 9313 www.croydonsportsclub.co.uk Little Kickers Sanderstead United Reform Church Hall, CR2 0HB. For contact details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR0.

Tumble Tots Sanderstead United Reformed Church Hall, CR2 0HB. Walkers to 7 years. For contact details see entry in Babies and Preschool section under CR0.

CR4 Little Kickers Ivy Gardens Childrens Centre, Mitcham, CR4 1BR. For contact details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR0.

CR8 Atlantis Swim School Ltd Thomas More School, Purley CR8 2XP. For contact details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR2.

KT4 Atlantis Swim School Ltd Linden Bridge School, Worcester Park KT4 7JW. For contact details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR2.

KT9 Atlantis Swim School Ltd Holiday Inn Hotel, Chessington KT9 2NE. For contact details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR2.

KT17 Atlantis Swim School Ltd Epsom College, KT17 4JQ. For contact details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR2.

GBMAA Epsom & Croydon Martial Arts Academy Rainbow Centre, Epsom, KT17 1BN. For contact details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR0.

Ready Steady Go Kids Fun and active classes aimed at developing your child’s motor skills and instilling a life-long love of active lifestyle. For ages 2½—6 years with children split into various age groups for a 45 minute class. Term-time classes.

0800 690 6591 www.rsgk.co.uk Nomads Korfball Club of Epsom / Cheam 07952 156 352 (after 6pm) SM2 Nomads Korfball Club of Epsom / Cheam 07952 156 352 (after 6pm) SM3 Cheam Hockey Club. For ages 5—adult. info@cheamhockeyclub.co.uk Sportscoach Cheam Nonsuch High School for Girls,Cheam SM3 8AB. Weekend sports schools for 4—16 year olds. 01293 774051 www.sportscoach.co.uk SM4 Little Kickers. Bishopsfords Art College SM4 6DU. For contact details see entry in Babies & Preschoolers section under CR0.

Cookery lessons and parties Epsoema & ar

07960 265825

Bake Real Bread Pop-Up Bake Clubs Eat Life Skills Parties Food Lovers Cook Recipes Surrey Good Food Lessons for Children Share Local sourcing Seasonality Lessons for Adults

learntocook.info@gmail.com www.learntocookgoodfood.com

Presented by

A monthly training program

Emma Northmore Ex-English National Ballet

for 8-18 yr olds

• Non-syllabus classes • Pointe work • Repertoire and pilates for ballet Apply to emma@surreyballetmasters.com

Tel: 07958 725862 www.surreyballetmasters.co.uk

HIP H O EET P/ DAN CE LAM DA YOU TH T HEA TRE BAB Y BA LLET

T PAR TRE A THE ING E IM T AIN S TR ART R 4 –17 FO DS R OL YEA

Drama

STR

Singing

Dance

LAMDA

Agency

Productions

COME FOR A FREE TRIAL • FUN FOR ALL 4 –17 YEAR OLDS LOWER KINGSWOOD – Fridays 4.30pm–7.30pm (4.30pm–6.30pm for 4–5 years) CARSHALTON – Saturdays 10.00am–1.00pm (10.00am–12.00pm for 4–5 years) HOOL EPSOM 2013 – Sundays 10.00am–1.00pm (10.00am–12.00pm for 4–5 years) N E W SC www.tophatstageschool.co.uk Tel: 01737 831184

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surrey@tophatstageschool.co.uk

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders

020 8669 5187

www.Families-LSB.co.uk

September-October 2013

Clubs, Classes and Activities LANGUAGES

Could your child

benefit from extra maths lessons?

Find out with a 500+ FREE assessment qualified tutors from the UK’s across award-winning the UK maths tuition service.

Call 020 7193 1871

CR0-CR8 Le Club Français, French Club Jennifer Parsons: 07711 993 129 www.lcfclubs.com/jenniferparsons CR3, KT17, KT19, KT20, KT22, RH2, SM5, SM7 and others Lucy Romano Languages (LCF Clubs) Please contact Lucy for details of class venues. Term time Spanish & French Clubs for children, aiming to give a fun introduction to learning a foreign language.

Teaching tools include games, songs, rhymes & drama activities. Private tuition available for children & adults and also small group adult classes. For ages 4+.

Lucy Romano: 07767 375 074 www.lucyromanolanguages.co.uk

mathsdoctor.co.uk

FOREST SCHOOL & BUSHCRAFT

You name it We label it!

Lunchboxes • Water Bottles Books • Uniforms • Footwear

T: 01635 298326 www.easy2name.com

WildWood Activities CR0 Wild Wood Activities: Wild Woodlander Saturday Club Frylands Scout Camp, Croydon CR0 9AA For children aged 7—13 who like to get out and about and explore in woods. The club meets at 10.00am and finish at 1.00pm. Children can bring lunch to eat in the woods (morning snack provided). Please wear old clothes. The cost: £50/child for 3 sessions. Booking essential.

Lauren Stevens: 07735 389 804 www.wildwoodactivities.co.uk

ACADEMIC TUITION

www.kidsartroom.com Empowering children with creative thinking

Art & Crafts lessons all year round for children ages 7-17 in Purley to excel at creative skills and start scholarships portfolio infokidsartroom@gmail.com & website *Enrol now for September 2013*

Children of all ages love to bake!

If you are looking for a unique party for your child then look no further than a Make & Bake party.

Creative, messy, fun!

Age 5+ Please call Amber on 07792 663126 or visit www.make-bake.co.uk Find us on facebook

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CR0 Explore Learning 335 Lower Addiscombe Road, Addiscombe CR0 6RG. Maths & English tuition for 5—14 year olds. 0203 370 5420 www.explorelearning.org.uk CR4 First Class Learning Mitcham Library, CR4 2YR. A personalised & systematic program of English and Maths tuition which covers the National Curriculum (Key Stage 1-4). For ages 3+.

Neela and Jitu Patel: 020 8646 6791 www.firstclasslearning.co.uk CR7 First Class Learning St Stephens Church, Thornton Heath CR7 7NH. A personalised & systematic program of English and Maths tuition which covers the National Curriculum (Key Stage 1-4). For ages 3+.

Bhavini Patel: 01483 728 007 www.firstclasslearning.co.uk CR8 11plus Ltd Laleham Lea Prep School, 3 Peaks Hill, Purley CR8 3JJ Specialist 11plus Masterclasses focusing on areas including Writing, Comprehension, Algebra, Word problems, Punctuation, VR and NVR. Classes delivered by highly experienced 11+ tutors and packed full to tips and shortcuts. A must for pupils preparing for the 11+. For ages 9—10 years. Sandra Nicol: 0845 056 8889 www.11plusmasterclasses.com Explore Learning 910-912 Brighton Road, Purley CR8 2LN Maths & English tuition for 5—14 year olds of all abilities. 020 8090 2938 www.explorelearning.org.uk KT17 Explore Learning Sainsbury’s, Kiln Lane, Epsom, KT17 1EQ. Maths & English tuition for 5-14 year olds of all abilities. 01372 722994 www.explorelearning.org.uk

KT18 Southern Tutors Ltd Rosebery School, Epsom KT18 7NQ For ages 8-11 years. Classes in English, Maths and 11 plus preparation held on Saturdays (term time only) and some holidays. Please contact Rosemary NOT the school. Rosemary Najim: 01372 721 119 07986 564 651 www.southerntutors.co.uk SE25 First Class Learning South Norwood Methodist Church, (Opposite Stanley Halls) SE25 6EG. A personalised & systematic program of English and Maths tuition which covers the National Curriculum (Key Stage 1-4). For ages 3+.

Simone Farnon: 020 8402 2150 www.firstclasslearning.co.uk SM1 Learna Education 5-6 The Broadway, Sutton, Surrey SM1 4BU. Curriculum-based supplementary Maths & Language teaching for children aged 4—16 years. Mrs A Sue or Bobby: 0845 094 0061 www.learna.co.uk Mrs Jones Education—11 Plus Tuition.

Tuition for 11+ Entrance Examinations into State Grammar and Private Schools in London & Surrey borders. Year 3 pre-Plus, 11 Plus Courses (Year 4 and Year 5), Mock Exam Practice, Interview Technique.

Gwenda Jones: 020 8390 6076 www.11plustuition.co.uk SM3 Explore Learning Sainsbury’s, North Cheam SM3 9AA. Maths & English tuition for 5-14 year olds of all abilities. 020 8644 0975 www.explorelearning.org.uk SM6 First Class Learning Holy Trinity Parish Church, Wallington SM6 8BL. A personalised & systematic program of English and Maths tuition which covers the National Curriculum (Key Stage 1-4). For ages 3+.

Sejal Littlebury: 020 8395 6813 www.firstclasslearning.co.uk Tuition Sutton Preparation for 11+ entrance examinations in English, verbal and non-verbal reasoning. Cherry Mattey: 020 8669 9794 www.tuitionsutton.com SW19 Learna Education—South London Centre 65 Clarendon Road, Collier’s Wood London SW19 2DX Curriculum-based supplementary Maths & Language teaching for children aged 4—16 years.

0845 094 0063 www.learna.co.uk All postcodes Fleet Tutors Tuition in the pupil’s home. One-toone tuition for prep school entry, 11+, common entrance exams, SATS, and for dyslexia/remedial help.

020 8580 3911 www.fleet-tutors.co.uk Maths Doctor Maths Doctor is an award winning company, run by qualified teachers. They have over 500 tutors providing one-to-one maths and physics tuition across the whole of the UK. They always start with a free online assessment of your child’s level and learning style, which enables them to hand pick the best tutor for them. To request a tutor please register your details online or by calling and they will be in touch to arrange your free, no obligation assessment.

020 7193 1871 www.mathsdoctor.co.uk

MUSIC

SM1 Sutton Music Centre 35 St. Nicholas Way, Sutton, Surrey, SM1 1JB Guitar, bass, drums and piano lessons. Courses have the emphasis on fun and are led by experienced, enthusiastic and inspiring tutors.

020 8642 2838 www.suttonandbansteadmusic.co.uk SM6 Mashu Studios Wallington SM6 0BY. Drums lessons for ages 4+ of any ability. First lessons is FREE. Simon Roberts: 020 8647 7801 www.marksmithdrums.com

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September-October 2013

News & Views

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September-October 2013

Holiday ideas

Family-friendly skiing can be child’s play If you’re skiing with small children, finding a resort that delivers in-chalet childcare, easy access to the slopes and plenty of on and off-piste entertainment for the parents can prove to be a challenge.

complete with canapés, coffee and chocolate, and not a cheese fondue in sight.

One small ski holiday operator, Chilly Powder (www.chillypowder.com) has families flocking back year on year, thanks to its winning combination of luxury catered chalets, on-site nannies and a spectacular ‘ski to the door’ location. Based in Morzine, in the heart of France’s famous Portes du Soleil ski area, Chilly Powder is already taking bookings for winter 2013/2014

And Chilly Powder’s location is perfect: skiing starts at the cable car opposite the chalets, and finishes with blue, red or black pistes, straight into the garden. The Portes du Soleil ski area covers 13 ski resorts in France and Switzerland (including Avoriaz, Chatel, and Champery) and offers 650km of pistes catering for all levels of skier, with beautiful runs both through the trees and well above the tree line. Snow cannons ensure that the runs to the resort are open throughout the season.

Run by British couple Francesca and Paul Eyre, Chilly Powder was founded on the principle that a family skiing holiday shouldn’t mean sacrificing fabulous facilities and perfect powder. Morzine is regarded as one of the top ski resorts in the Alps, but not a natural choice if you’re travelling with a tiny brood. Over the past 18 years, the Eyres have set about changing that, and now have a deserved reputation for raising the bar when it comes to in-resort childcare.

Fully-qualified nannies run a crèche equipped with all the baby essentials — from toys, bibs and buggies to potties and bottle sterilising equipment — so that parents don’t have to pack up the house to come on holiday. The crèche can stick to the baby’s home routine when it comes to feeding, playtime and napping, and parents are allocated a ‘key worker’ for the week for complete peace of mind.

For older children finding their ski legs but not up to staying on the slopes all day, Chilly Powder will collect them from the nursery slopes and entertain them at its afternoon kid’s club. Children can play in the sheltered snow garden or retreat indoors to the playroom for a game of pool, table tennis, table football or to play on the Wii / Playstation 2.

But it’s not all about the kids: after a day on the slopes, parents can come back to a sauna and massage before drinks in the bar or the outdoor jacuzzi. Foodies will be spoiled with the fine dining on offer — every evening the chalet chef cooks a delicious four-course dinner

Owner Francesca Eyre says: “Chilly Powder’s proximity to the slopes and professional on-site childcare sets it apart from other operators in Morzine, but it’s their friendly, hands-on approach that keeps people coming back for more — we’ve been fully booked for the past eight winter seasons with repeat business and personal referrals.”

Picturesque Morzine is only an hour’s drive from Geneva airport and, with its weekly market and beautiful buildings situated by the river Dranse in the old town, has a charm found in few other ski resorts. Après ski options range from quiet bars and restaurants to nightclubs open until dawn, or Chilly Powder guests can kick back in the chalet around the open fire.

Chilly Powder operates three chalets. Prices start at €675 per person, per week for half board accommodation, with discounts available for children, groups or people sharing a family room. The chalets are also available for exclusive hire for weddings and parties, and the Eyres are happy to arrange group or private lessons with British instructors for adults and children.

Francesca adds: “With three children of our own, we appreciate the importance of making families feel both welcome and well catered for.”

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September-October 2013

Baby Pages Baby Showers offers partyware and stationery Baby Showers are a growing trend in the UK. Blooming Baby Showers offers a charming range of beautiful stationery and partyware.

The range includes invitations, thank you cards, paper plates, napkins, balloons, bunting, cupcake cases and a fun box of games to ensure you can throw an unforgettable party celebration. New to their range is the pink and purple polka dot cupcake case RRP: £2.99 (30 cupcake cases). Visit their website to see the full range of products available.

Create a stunning piece of art from your finger or handprints.

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Blooming Baby Shower Range: Starting from £2.99 – £14.99. Available from www.bloomingbabyshowers.co.uk

Drool Monkey for your baby’s teething needs Drool Monkey is a unique teether, providing a 100% organic and safe solution for babies teething needs. With no toxic dyes, chemical flame retardants, or synthetic fabrics it is an ideal comforter for little ones to drool over.

Luxuriously soft and absorbent, not only can little ones suck and chomp on monkey, you can tie ice in the fabric to create the ultimate soother for gums and you can also tie knots in the four corners to provide something else to chew on or simply as a comforter to fiddle with. Not only is Drool Monkey an effective teether, but also a cute doll, a fun rattle, and a soft and calming security blankie.

Bubbaroo Blankie stays soft after many washes

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Children’s Cupcake Parties We bring everything required to the party venue.

The Bubbaroo Blankie is a beautifully soft and generously sized baby blanket. Perfect for when it comes to nap time, it can be used on its own or over a sleeping bag to add a little extra warmth during the coming winter months. It is also incredibly useful when out and about and can be used in the car or stroller and even when baby is enjoying a little downtime on the sofa. It has been made from 100% knitted cotton, making it the ultimate blanket for warmth, breathability and functionality. Parents will be astounded by the quality of this blanket, no matter how many times it’s washed; it keeps its softness, making it a fantastic investment for any family. RRP: £29.95. Available from www.bubbaroo.co.uk

We also do: Giant Cupcakes Cupcake Children Decorating decorate their classes for own cakes and adults take them Bespoke home in a box. cupcakes for www.thelittlepinkkitchen.co.uk any event 020 8647 9903 / 07952 699 422 The Little Pink Kitchen @TheLittlePK

Business Mums Wanted Successful local business is seeking five partners to work part time from home without compromising family commitments If you have a Managerial, Sales, Marketing, Recruitment or Self-Employed background, and you wish to develop a more balanced lifestyle around your family's needs please call:

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New idea to help toddlers get in the car My Car Step is a discreet step that sits underneath your child’s car seat to enable them to climb into their seat unaided, allowing tots to feel all grown-up. It is suitable from when a child is able to balance, walk and climb unaided up until 4 years old and can be used on all forward facing car seats that are secured with a seat belt or isofix. The step is kept securely in place by the weight of the car seat. It has passed rigorous safety testing, so parents can rest assured their little ones will safely enjoy their new found independence.

An additional benefit is that it will significantly reduce the amount of backache and bumped heads incurred by parents from lifting their children in and out of the car two and three times a day.

The product takes seconds to install, is discreet, and can remain in place without taking up any space in the foot well. RRP: £24.99.

Available from www.mycarstep.com

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September-October 2013

Education

Is your child ready to learn?

Some deceptively obvious advice for parents from NAHT President, Bernadette Hunter

traditional board games are giving way to solo computer games and screen time.

The National Association of Headteachers (NAHT) and the charity Family Action have launched a joint Ready to Learn Every Day campaign aimed at helping parents to support their children’s learning.

Families magazine talked to NAHT President, Bernadette Hunter, about the campaign and why their advice is relevant to all parents.

The first of the four Ready to Learn Every Day guides urges parents to set aside time for talking without being interrupted

by TV, radio, phones or computer; time where we really do listen to our children, talk to them about their day, and tell them about ours. It also suggests that we share books or play games in a quiet environment away from the TV, and that we play games like jigsaws and board games that encourage concentration.

Research shows that children are best placed to succeed in school when parents are actively involved in their education. But that does © Copyright Flickr user: Woodleywonderworks not only mean helping out when they get stuck with homework. In fact, preparing children to The guide also asks parent to support children by establishing set be ready for learning can be far more basic — like making sure they family routines for bedtimes, mealtimes and homework and know how to take turns and to listen; that they go to bed on time; recommends having a regular time for a family meal. “It doesn’t have have breakfast before going to school, and turn up on time, having to be every day, but even just at weekends where everyone has a remembered their pencil case, PE kit and homework. meal together and talks as a family,” says Bernadette.

The first NAHT and Family Action Ready to Learn Every Day guide With busy lifestyles and a culture of TV dinners, Bernadette fears we covers these sorts of issues: bedtimes, family routines, organisation, risk losing these communication skills which were passed down from behaviour, communicating with your child and spending time with generation to generation. “What we are seeing now are some young them. parents who have never experienced eating together as a family,” she Common sense — yes. Obvious ….? Well, yes, but deceptively so. You says. don’t have to dig very deep to realise that the advice is relevant for all parents. Modern life is certainly hectic. With many of us working long Mind your Ps and Qs hours, and constantly pressed for time, even those with the very best The guide talks too about good manners — encouraging children to of intentions can forget the basics. say, please and thank you and not interrupting others when they are speaking. If at home we agree on realistic rules for behaviour and A HR manager shame-facedly admitted to me that, when her child stick to them, children will also understand they need to stick to rules started school, the teacher called her aside and told her that her at school. daughter was falling asleep in class because she was so tired.

Bernadette is not surprised. “Not all parents realise how much sleep their child actually needs (under 5s need 15 hours and older primary school children should have 10 hours.). And not all parents realise that if you allow your child to watch TV or play on the computer before going to bed, they will have trouble going to sleep, ” she says.

Bernadette readily says some of the advice — like bedtimes — might seem obvious, but she adds: “We know from talking to parents that they can really welcome this advice. The Ready to Learn Every Day series of leaflets are about giving parents the confidence to set the boundaries for their children.”

Bernadette stresses the importance of talking and listening to children and spending time with them. Again, self-evident — but think about it for a moment.

Perhaps it is good news for those of us who feel daunted by hothousing and tiger parenting. The crucial factors in determining our children’s success in school and beyond could well be the time we spend talking to and playing with them, and the ground-rules and routines we establish for them at home. It could be that simple.

How many of us harried parents will recognise situations in which we have been checking e-mails or texts as our child was speaking to us?

I’d hazard a guess most of us have been there. And many of us (however good we are as parents) would probably admit to having allowed a child watch TV rather than play with them because we were simply too tired? But as Bernadette explains, there is more active learning in traditional games than in passive viewing.

“Sometimes parents find it difficult to find the time to sit down and play with their children — it is easier to put something on the TV than to play the traditional type of games. But when you play a traditional board game, as well as being fun, children are learning to co-operate when they play, to take turns and to understand rules. They are picking up lots of key skills — speaking, listening and concentrating.”

Ironically, while we are living in an age of 24/7 communication — instant messaging, Skyping and TV on demand — these very same tools are taking their toll on communication at home. Family meal times, where children learned to talk and to listen, are waning, and

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The Ready to Learn Every Day guide can be downloaded from www.family-action.org.uk/naht This leaflet will be followed this Autumn by a guide for parents to develop children’s speaking and listening skills. Later in the year there will be a parents’ guide to helping with schoolwork; and a final parents’ guide in the Summer Term about helping children with transitions — from one class to another, and moving on to secondary school. *Family Action is a charity that supports and strengthens vulnerable and disadvantaged families throughout England. The charity knows from experience how vital it is that all parents get the support and advice they need to ensure that the home environment really supports learning and that their children are ready to do their best in school each and every day. And teachers see the results when the children are in school.

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September-October 2013

Education Take a break from technology (sent in by a Families reader) For a while every Friday to Saturday night I stopped using email, text or phone.

Eventually my first step then turned into a step further: my husband now also switches off and now we also actually turn off the phones, TV and internet. Our friends are trying to call us? They now know to leave messages, we’ll reply later. We also banned planning, chores and instead we play games, take walks and bake/cook. What a huge sense of peace.

“When I had my daughter I was busy recording every funny thing she did or she said but I found out I had been focused on that and not on her. I wasn’t really there, present, enjoying her or the moment.” Now I just want to experience it. It’s also freeing myself time to just be.

When the 24 hours are over, it’s exciting to go back to ‘normal’ time. I feel like my spirit has been reset, like I’ve fallen in love with my husband or daughter all over again.

The Big Draw aims to get you drawing The largest drawing festival in the world returns throughout the month of October, taking place in 20 countries and offering 1400 events in the UK alone.

The Big Draw connects people of all ages with museum and gallery collections and urban and rural spaces in new and enjoyable ways, offering unlimited scope for those who love to draw and those who think they can’t.

Bolters Lane Banstead Surrey SM7 2AJ office@prioryprep.co.uk www.prioryprep.co.uk 01737 366920

Open MOrning 10am- 12noon Saturday 21st September 2013 pOp in MOrning 9am-11am Wednesday 9th October 2013

Learn to Read in 5 Weeks – for FREE!

Why not hold a Big Draw event in your school or local library? Get inspired and find out how to organise your own event, plus discover what events are taking place near you at www.campaignfordrawing.org/bigdraw

National Poetry Day set for 3 Oct. Mark this 3 October with a nationwide celebration of poetry. Poetry is for everyone, everywhere, from assemblies, bus-queues, cafes, greengrocers, hospitals and ice-rinks to waiting-rooms, yacht clubs and zoos. This year’s theme is water, with Coleridge’s great phrase ‘Water, water, everywhere’ as inspiration.

Check out the website for a myriad of poems on the subject, together with ideas on how to turn the theme of water into lines of poetry.

Participants this year are challenged to smuggle poetry into the most unlikely places, not just in libraries and classrooms but on fishing boats and ferries, via postcards, mobile phones and announcements on station platforms. www.nationalpoetryday.co.uk

Explore Learning builds confidence An independent study into the effects of Explore Learning membership has recently been published by The University of Reading.

The study tested 1,539 Explore members compared to a control group of children who did not attend Explore, and found that:

Sign up for your FREE trial* today and see for yourself how your child’s reading improves by using Reading Eggs. Whats more, for every new sign up Reading Eggs will donate £1 to our charity partner Tommy’s!

Hurry, offer ends 30 September, 2013. Register today at

www.readingeggs.co.uk/learn *Free trial only available for new customers who sign up at the above address.

“Building confidence, overcoming shyness to put up their hand to ask for help, being more independent and less reluctant to try without assistance were all elements that parents recognised in their children and directly attributed to Explore Learning.”

To read the full report, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk/efficacy.

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This FREE event will give your child 5 WEEKS FREE* access to Reading Eggs – the online reading programme that teaches children aged 3 – 13 the literacy skills needed for lifetime reading success.

FREE 5 WEEK TRIAL*

“Explore Learning members’ improvement in maths was 30% higher than that of the comparison group.”

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From 26 August to 30 September your child can join thousands of children across the UK taking part in the Reading Eggs Great Literacy Challenge – a nationwide effort to inspire children to read!

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September-October 2013

Education Parents prepare for entrance exams

Time to shine at Thames Christian

Children may have to take the exams but it also requires a battery of skills and knowledge from parents to make sure their children reach exam season possessing a quiet confidence and self-belief, secure in their English and maths knowledge and well-practiced in exam techniques.

Numerous studies have proven the negative effect that the media can have on teenage girls’ selfesteem and body image at a time when they are already experiencing social and peer pressure.

Start early is the mantra you’ll hear from parents who have been through the experience. Whether you use a tutor or do-it-yourself, a steady structured programme prepares a child, not just for exams, but for the big changes they face when they start ‘big’ school in year 7.

Fleet Tutors 020 8580 3911 www.fleet-tutors.co.uk

To combat this effect, Year 9 girls from Thames Christian College are taking part in a personal development programme ‘ShineGIRL’ to empower them to understand their own personal worth, strengths and purpose. Sessions aim to develop a strong sense of personal identity, confidence and hope.

New language classes in Carshalton

The idea is to equip the girls to realise their full potential by identifying their individual desires and motivating them to set and achieve personal goals.

Lucy Romano Language Clubs is launching a series of new classes this September.

Emily O’Boyle said: “The programme is a lot of fun and re-energising.

It has helped me to think about myself in a positive light and consider what I would really like to achieve in life.”

A new after-School Spanish Club opens in the Carshalton/Sutton area caters for 4­— 8 year olds and for adults looking to brush up on their language skills.

To find out more visit www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk or come along to one of their open days (see table on p25).

Don’t lose sight of your child. Focus on what they are doing right.

Confidence drives self-belief which encourages learning and also establishes an outlook that will serve them well throughout life.

Reading Eggs offers 5 weeks free*

A new Spanish Intermediate Conversation group will be meeting twice monthly in Banstead. This is in addition to the Beginner- & Beginner-Plus Spanish classes in Epsom on a Monday evening.

Private Spanish & French tutors are available during afternoons and evenings for children from 4 years to GCSE, A level and for adults.

The Lucy Romano approach introduces children to the Spanish or French language through lively games, action songs, rhymes, stories and drama/role play. Learning a foreign language at an early and receptive stage of their development greatly improves listening and verbal skills, aids concentration. Most important, the sessions are fun.

Please see: www.lucyromanolanguages.co.uk or contact info@lucyromanolanguages.co.uk Tel: 07767 375074.

Why we should all walk to school Beat the traffic and get you and your kids out in the fresh air during ‘International Walk to School Month’ this October.

Proven reading results • Over 90% of parents have noticed an improvement in their child’s reading ability since using Reading Eggs • The lessons content and format are based on solid scientific research • Has a core reading curriculum of phonics and sight words supporting what children learn at school • Uses skills and strategies essential for sustained reading success • The programme is used by over 2 million children worldwide (and counting.)

• Reading Eggs has been developed by expert educators with over 20 years’ experience

Each year, primary school children from ! across the UK join forces with over 40 countries worldwide to School celebrate the benefits of walking to school and this October is no different, with the month-long activity encouraging pupils to walk to school at least once a week.

Why children love Reading Eggs

Many parents know that walking is actually quicker and less stressful than taking the car and they value the opportunity to spend quality time with their children. It also increases air quality with fewer cars on the streets and strengthen communities, where children and parents Walk to are seen in the streets. Stop moaning about the traffic … start ol clearing it. www.livingstreets.org.ukScho

From 26th August to 30th September your child can have 5 weeks free access* to Reading Eggs. Simply register your child at www.readingeggs.co.uk/learn.

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Week

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Reading Eggs is the award-winning online reading programme for children aged 3-13.

The Reading Eggs programme is all about bringing out the best in each child using unique worlds of interactive reading and writing activities.

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• There are over 512 interactive games, motivating rewards and songs • It makes reading fun — children want to learn • The programme supplies one-on-one lessons that match your child’s ability • Detailed assessment reports show and recognise progress Suitable for children aged 3 — 13

*Free trial only available for new customers who register at www.readingeggs.co.uk/learn.

Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies Families London-Surrey Borders Living Streets (The Pedestrians Association) is a Registered Charity No. 1108448 (England and Wales) and SC039808 (Scotland), Company Limited by Guarantee (England & Wales), Company Registration No. 5368409. Registered office 4th Floor, Universal House, 88-94 Wentworth Street. E1 7SA

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September-October 2013

News & Views

Chinthurst sChool TradiTional Values | Modern Teaching

Come and see why Chinthurst is the fastest growing Preparatory School in the area Tadworth Street, Tadworth, Surrey KT20 5QZ Tel: 01737 812011 | E: info@chinthurstschool.co.uk www.chinthurstschool.co.uk

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

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

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September-October 2013

Education

Which secondary is right for my child?

Joanna Moorhead offers advice on 20 things you need to know when choosing ‘big school’

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important part of the event: not only do you need to pick up on the head’s attitude and values and what matters most to him or her, but you also need to pay special attention to anything that’s said about the entrance criteria. Understanding that is the crucial next stage.

Make your own mind up. It’s amazing how many parents never even look round a school because of what they’ve heard.

A school that doesn’t suit another family could be just right for yours.

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Listen to your child’s feelings as well as your own.

Choosing his or her primary was down to just you and your partner; but your 10 or 11-yearold deserves a say.

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If you like a school, do your homework about whether your child fits its entrance requirements.

However much you love the school, and however much you think your child would thrive there, you’ll only get a place if you fulfil the criteria. Read the school’s entrance policy through very, very carefully. If you don’t fulfil the requirements, could you change something so you do?

If not, move on: there’s no point in wasting a choice or railing against something you can’t change.

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Use open days wisely. If you can, go to a daytime visit (especially to a school that seems a strong contender) because you’ll see it in working mode.

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Nothing advertises a school like its pupils. Do they seem happy? Are they polite? If you have time, hang around in the area at home time. Are they well-behaved?

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How about the staff — do they seem happy and fulfilled working there? Take opportunities to chat to them.

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You’re bound to talk to other parents, and you want to talk to other parents, but don’t get pulled along by their tide. Do your own research and develop your own views: knowledge is power.

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Listen to your instincts. If a school doesn’t feel right, move on. You don’t have to explain yourself or your reasons for doing so to anyone else (although you do, of course, need to discuss it with your child if your instincts are different).

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Don’t get bogged down in the detail: what you’re aiming to get is a sense of the school. Does it feel happy, productive, calm? Is there a sense of order and caring?

These things matter more than the nitty-gritty of syllabus and examboard or after-school clubs.

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Think about your child’s talents and interests and ponder carefully whether they’ll be catered for. But think too about what the school offers that might be harder to pick up at home. We’re a family of journalists, where literacy is easier for us as parents; so I’m glad my girls went to a school that specialised in maths and science, even though these weren’t their strongest subjects.

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Pay attention to what’s on the walls — and not just the artwork.

What are children being warned about, or encouraged to do? Are there any school visits being advertised? What clubs seem to be thriving?

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Look at the school’s league tables, but don’t pin everything on them. Read the Ofsted report too and pay particular attention to how the school has done over time. If it’s had a dip, are there signs of improvement or suggestions that it could turn round?

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Where do pupils go on to from this school? You want to see at least some youngsters doing well academically and aiming for good courses at top universities.

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Go to the head teacher’s talk and take your notebook — or even record it on your smartphone to review later. This is an

Keep telling yourself (because it’s true) that there is no perfect school.

Every school has strengths and weaknesses. There’s more than one school that can be right for your child.

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When the time comes to fill in the forms, allow yourself lots of time and do it extremely carefully. There may be supplementary forms, and there may be complicated arrangements for giving them in (especially if you’re applying to faith schools). If you find it all too confusing, talk to your child’s primary teacher or primary head, or call the education department at your local authority.

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Have a plan of action for what you’ll do if you don’t get the school you’re hoping for. Just having that plan will make you feel more relaxed.

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Remember that there’s a lot of movement in the first few weeks after places are allocated, and some children on the waiting lists do get a place.

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Don’t underestimate how much hard work an appeal can be, or how emotionally draining. That’s not to say don’t do it: just be prepared.

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Remember that, at the end of the day, parents make more difference to a child’s future than a school does. Even if your child doesn’t get into your first choice of school (and one in seven didn’t last year) your attitude to that could be a much bigger factor in what happens next for your child than the school itself. Have confidence, first and foremost, in your child. And believe that, together, you will work things out if and when you come up against problems.

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September-October 2013

News & Views At Croydon High we have something to celebrate Our girls.

We celebrate their talents, dedication and achievements, in an aspirational, totally supportive environment which allows every one of them to shine.

Junior Open Afternoon October 5th 1.30-3.30pm Junior School Open Week October 7th-11th Senior Open Morning October 5th 9.30-12pm Or call Clare Macmillan on 020 8260 7508 to book a visit at a time to suit you.

Girls who are going places go to Croydon High School An Independent Day School for Girls aged 3 -18 Croydon High School ESTD. 1874

www.croydonhigh.gdst.net

AGED 4-11

OPEN DAYS An Independent Day School, 3-18 years, Junior Co-ed, Senior Boys, Sixth Form Co-ed. Early Morning and After School Care Available

Saturday 12th October Nursery and Early Years, Junior and Senior Schools 10.00am - 12 noon

Wednesday 16th October Next Open Morning, Saturday 12th October 10am-12noon

A day in the life of Elmhurst... come and see for yourself

Senior School - From 6.00pm

Wednesday 6th November Nursery and Early Years, Senior School, 9.00am - 10.30am Junior School 10.30am - 12 noon

If you would like to book a place at our next Open Morning to request a prospectus, or to arrange an individual tour, please contact Carole or Paula on 020 8688 0661 or email office@elmhurstschool.net Elmhurst School, 44-48 South Park Hill Road, South Croydon, Surrey CR2 7DW www.elmhurstschool.net

Outstanding achievements, outstanding individuals A consistently high record of scholarships and places to top sought after schools such as Whitgift, Trinity, Royal Russell, Dulwich, St Olaves’s, Wilson’s and Wallington.

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Church Street • Ewell • Surrey KT17 2AW 020 8393 1413 E: admissions@ewellcastle.co.uk • www.ewellcastle.co.uk Please mention Families magazine if you contact these companies www.Families-LSB.co.uk

September-October 2013

Education

SCHOOLS DIRECTORY 2013 Choosing an independent school is a major decision for all families. This brief guide aims to introduce some of the best schools in the area. Combined with our list of open days on p25, parents can draw up a shortlist and visit prior to making that all-important decision.

Chinthurst School Tadworth Street, Tadworth, Surrey, KT20 5QZ 013737 812011 info@chinthurstschool.co.uk www.chinthurstschool.co.uk Chinthurst is an independent preparatory school for pupils aged ‘rising 3’ – 13, and is renowned for its friendly family ethos. They aim to provide an all-round education within a happy, purposeful, active school life and also aim to encourage and stimulate all their pupils, both in the classroom and outside.

Cumnor House Boys: 168 Pampisford Road, South Croydon, Surrey, CR2 6DA Girls: 1 Woodcote Lane, Purley, Surrey, CR8 3HB Treetops Nursery: 91 Pampisford Road, South Croydon, Surrey, CR2 6DH 13 Woodcote Lane, Purley, Surrey, CR8 3HB 020 8660 3445 admin@cumnorhouse.com www.cumnorhouse.com

Ewell Castle School Church Street, Ewell, Surrey KT17 2AW 020 8393 1413 admissions@ewellcastle.co.uk www.ewellcastle.co.uk A small and friendly independent day school for three to 18 year olds (Junior co-ed, Senior Boys and Sixth Form co-ed). The school has a strong commitment to the traditional values of showing courtesy and respect and pupils thrive academically as a result of the small class sizes; the varied, stimulating curriculum; and an extensive extra-curricular programme.

A Cumnor House day from the nursery upwards is one of purposeful industry, allied to lots of laughter and fun. They aspire to high academic standards and are proud of their record of scholarship and examination success to leading HMC schools, the Whitgift Foundation Schools and local grammar schools. As all-round schools they also promote and celebrate achievement in sport, music and the arts at all levels.

Croydon High School Old Farleigh Road Selsdon South Croydon CR2 8YB 020 8260 7543 admissions@cry.gdst.net www.croydonhigh.gdst.net Croydon High is an exceptional Independent Day School, welcoming girls from 3 – 18 into a warm, totally aspirational learning environment. After 139 years’ experience, the school knows girls respond best when they are secure and happy.

That’s why they are able to stretch even the youngest to achieve more than you could imagine.

Downsend School 1 Leatherhead Road, Leatherhead KT22 8TJ (Also Pre-Preps based in Ashtead, Epsom and Leatherhead) 01372 372311 www.Downsend.co.uk Downsend offers its pupils an enviable wealth of opportunities to succeed. Academic results speak for themselves and high achievement has become the norm at the school. The children follow a vibrant and engaging curriculum, but the range of activities on offer does not come at the expense of a close-knit community.

Elmhurst School for Boys South Park Hill Road, South Croydon, Surrey, CR2 7DW. 020 8688 0661 office@elmhurstschool.net www.elmhurstschool.net

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Elmhurst aim to provide boys with a wide ranging and diverse curriculum that allows them to develop their talents and foster an interest in many different fields. Boys have the opportunity to participate in a variety of sports including Rugby, Swimming, Hockey, Basketball and Athletics along with Music, Drama and Art. For boys aged 4—11

Greenacre School for Girls Sutton Lane, Banstead, Surrey, SM7 3RA 01737 352114 www.greenacre.surrey.sch.uk carol.lewis@greenacre.surrey.sch.uk Greenacre is a thriving and vibrant school for girls aged 3 to 18 years, large enough to offer variety, challenge and opportunity but small enough for each girl to be known as a unique individual, enabling her to realise her full potential.

Girls emerge as articulate, confident, accomplished, young women.

Homefield School Western Road, Sutton, Surrey SM1 2TE 020 8642 0965 registrar@homefield.sutton.sch.uk www.homefield.sutton.sch.uk Homefield is a school for 400 boys aged 3 – 13, which has a spacious state of the art Early Years Unit and a 2 acre adjoining playing field. The school has a family atmosphere, small class sizes and subject specialist teachers.

Homefield pupils are described as ‘confident, highly motivated and enthusiastic’ (Inspection 2013).

Kingswood House School 56 West Hill, Epsom, Surrey KT19 8LG 01372 723590 www.kingswoodhouse.org admissions@kingswoodhouse.org Kingswood House School in Epsom provides a nurturing and protective environment for boys aged three to 13 and girls aged three to seven years. Small classes enable each pupil to maximise their potential while the academically-gifted thrive thanks to the expert teaching and learning. Their new Junior School for Years 3, 4 and 5 opens this Autumn so enquire about a place for your child now.

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Education

www.kingswoodhouse.org admissions@kingswoodhouse.org

Give your daughter the very best start Greenacre School offers an excellent education for girls aged 3 to 18 years. Our small class sizes, expert teaching, outstanding pastoral care and extensive extra-curricular programme ensure that every girl has the opportunity to realise her full potential.

If you would like to visit the school, please telephone for an appointment or join us at one of our half termly Prospective Parents’ Mornings.

Further details are available from the Admissions Registrar on 01737 352114.

Sutton Lane, Banstead, Surrey SM7 3RA admin@greenacre.surrey.sch.uk

www.greenacre.surrey.sch.uk

Founded in 1870

Homefield School For boys aged 3-13

OPEN MORNING Saturday 28th September 10am – 1pm

Inspiring love of learning registrar@homefield.sutton.sch.uk www.homefield.sutton.sch.uk Western Road, Sutton, SM1 2TE 020 8642 0965 Scan here to see our website

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September-October 2013

Education Old Palace of John Whitgift Seniors: Old Palace Road Croydon CR0 1AX 020 8688 2027 Juniors: Melville Avenue, South Croydon CR2 7YN 020 8686 7347 schooloffice@oldpalace.croydon.sch.uk www.oldpalaceofjohnwhitgift.org In the Junior school, the aim is for students to enjoy all aspects of their learning by providing a stimulating and creative curriculum designed to secure firm foundations for academic success. In the Senior School, in addition to a first class academic education, the school promotes leadership, independence, integrity and an ambition to achieve. They have something to inspire every young woman ranging from football to astronomy.

Priory Preparatory School Bolters Lane, Banstead, Surrey, SM7 2AJ 01737 366 920, sjordan@prioryprep.co.uk www.prioryprep.co.uk At Priory Prep they believe that happy boys learn. They provide excellent teaching within a secure and friendly environment. Small classes, a broad curriculum and an extensive activity programme give each Priory Prep boy an excellent start in life. All the boys can be assured of individual monitoring and support to reach their goals. Ofsted and ISI reports judge the school to be ‘outstanding’ in all areas.

Royal Russell School Coombe Lane, Croydon, Surrey CR0 5RF 020 8651 5884 www.royalrussell.co.uk Nurturing dreams and ambitions and giving children a secure and spacious environment in which to learn and play is paramount to the learning ethos of Royal Russell School. The Junior School are

making full use of the 110 acre parkland estate with the next phase of their exciting adventure playground set in the schools woodland now open. This includes the addition of two rope swings and a climbing wall.

Thames Christian College Wye St, London SW11 2HB 020 7228 3933 www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk A small independent secondary school for girls and boys near Clapham Junction Station. At Thames Christian College pupils believe that success is not just a dream. They achieve excellent exam results and develop into vibrant young leaders, hallmarked by their integrity and maturity.

Trinity School Shirley Park, Croydon CR9 7AT 020 8656 9541 www.trinity-school.org Trinity is an independent school for boys aged 10 – 18 with a co-educational Sixth Form. Their aim is to achieve excellence both inside and outside the classroom for every individual student. Trinity have a reputation for being exceptionally caring but also very challenging so each boy and girl is able to fulfil his or her potential. The school is relaxed but dynamic; ambitious but not pretentious. Outstanding facilities, small class sizes and, above all, inspirational teachers combine to give students a learning experience that leads not only to academic excellence but also gives them the emotional intelligence that prepares them for life beyond school.

The very best start in life Open Afternoon 5 October 14.00-16.00

Old Palace Nursery

Tel: 020 8686 7347

www.oldpalace.croydon.sch.uk

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Old Palace Preparatory

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September-October 2013

Education INDEPENDENT SCHOOL OPEN DAYS Bromley Postcodes Wickham Court, West Wickham, BR4, 020 8777 2942, Co-Ed: 2½-16, Contact school for details, www.wickhamcourt.org.uk

Croydon Postcodes Old Palace School of John Whitgift Senior, Old Palace site, S. Croydon, CR0, 020 8688 2027, Girls 11-18, Sat 7 Sep 9.00 – 12.00pm; Sat 28 Sep: 2.00—4.00pm (book place online), www.oldpalaceofjohnwhitgift.org Royal Russell, Croydon, CR0, 020 8651 5884, Co-Ed: 3-18, Sat 21 Sep: 9.00—1.00pm, www.royalrussell.co.uk Trinity, Shirley Park, CR0, 020 8656 9541, Boys 10-16 /Co-Ed: 16-18, Sat 12 Oct: 9.00—12.00pm, www.trinity-school.org The Cedars, Croydon, CR0, 020 8185 7770, Boys 11-18, Sat 28 Sep 10.00am, www.thecedarsschool.org.uk Croydon High, Selsdon, CR2, 020 8260 7543, Girls 3-18, Sat 5 Oct: 9.30—12.00pm (Senior School); 1.30—3.30pm (Junior school). 7—11 Oct: Junior School Open week, www.croydonhigh.gdst.net Cumnor House Boys & Tree Tops Nursery (Pampisford Rd), South Croydon CR2, 020 8660 3445, Boys 2-13, Sat 28 Sep 9.30— 12.30pm, www.cumnorhouse.com Elmhurst, South Croydon, CR2, 020 8688 0661, Boys 4-11, Sat 12 Oct 10.00—12.00pm or by appointment, www.elmhurstschool.net Old Palace School of John Whitgift Junior, Croham site, S. Croydon, CR2, 020 8688 7347, Girls 3 months-11, Sat 5 Oct 2.00—4.00pm (book place online), www.oldpalaceofjohnwhitgift.org Whitgift, South Croydon, CR2, 020 8688 9222, Boys 10-18, Sat 21 Sep: 9.00—1.30pm; Tue 8 Oct: 4.00—8.00pm, www.whitgift.co.uk Caterham, Caterham, CR3, 01883 335058, Co-Ed: 3-18, Sat 21 Sep 9.30—12.00pm, www.caterhamschool.co.uk Essendene Lodge, Caterham, CR3, 01883 348349, Co-Ed: 3-11, Open Morning every Friday, 9.30—11.30am, www.essendenlodge.co.uk Oakhyrst Grange, Caterham, CR3, 01883 343344, Co-Ed: 4-11, Fri 11 Oct 10.00 – 12.00pm, www.oakhyrstgrangeschool.co.uk

Woldingham, Woldingham, CR3, 01883 349431, Girls 11-18, Contact school for details, www.woldinghamschool.co.uk Warlingham Park, Warlingham, CR6, 01883 626844, Co-Ed: 2-11, Contact school for details, www.warlinghamparkschool.com Cumnor House Girls & Tree Tops Nursery, Purley, CR8, 020 8660 3445, Girls 2-11, Sat 28 Sep 9.30—12.30pm, www.cumnorhouse.com Laleham Lea, Purley, CR8, 020 8660 3351, Co-Ed: 2-11, Mon 30 Sep—Fri 4 Oct: 9.30— 11.30am, open week, www.lalehamlea.co.uk Oakwood School & Nursery, Purley, CR8, 020 8668 8080, Co-Ed: 2-11, Contact school for details, www.oakwoodschool.org.uk St David’s, Purley, CR8, 020 8660 0723, Co-Ed: 3-11, Sat 21 Sep 10.00—12.00pm, www.stdavidsschool.co.uk

Epsom Postcodes Epsom College, Epsom, KT17, 01372 821234, Co-Ed: 13-18, Sat 5 Oct 9.45am, visit website for online booking form, www.epsomcollege.org.uk Ewell Castle Junior and Senior, Ewell, KT17, 020 8393 1413, Co-Ed: 3-11/Boys 11-16/Co-Ed: 6th Form, Sat 12 Oct: 10.00—12.00pm (whole school) ; Wed 16 Oct: 6.00pm (senior only); Wed 6 Nov 9.00—10.30am (Nursery, Early Years and Senior school) & 10.30—12.00pm (Junior school), www.ewellcastle.co.uk Downsend Pre-Preps, Epsom, Ashtead & Leatherhead, KT17,21,22, 01372 372311, Co-Ed: 2-6, Sat 21 Sep 9.30 – 11.30am, www.downsend.co.uk St Christopher’s, Epsom, KT18, 01372 721807, Co-Ed: 2½-7, Contact school for details, www.st-christophers.surrey.sch.uk Kingswood House, Epsom, KT19, 01372 723590, Co-Ed: 3-7/Boys 8-13, Thu 3 Oct & Sat 5 Oct 9.30 – 12.00pm, www.kingswoodhouse.org Kingston Grammar, Kingston-upon Thames, KT2, 020 8546 5875, Co-Ed: 10-18, Thu 26 Sep: 6.30—9.00pm; Sat 28 Sep: 10.00—12.30pm, www.kgs.org.uk Aberdour, Burgh Heath, KT20, 01737 354119, Co-Ed: 2-13, Wed 16 Oct: 9.30—12.00pm, drop-in morning, www.aberdourschool.co.uk Chinthurst, Tadworth, KT20, 013737 812011, Co-Ed: 3-13, Fri 4 & Sat 5 Oct 9.30—12.00pm, www.chinthurstschool.co.uk

City of London Freemen’s, Ashtead Park, KT21, 01372 822423, Co-Ed: 7-18, Sat 5 Oct 9.45am, www.clfs.surrey.sch.uk Downsend Preparatory, Leatherhead, KT22, 01372 372311, Co-Ed: 6-13, Sat 28 Sep: From 9.15am with Headmaster’s Talk at 9.30am, www.downsend.co.uk

Redhill Postcodes Box Hill, Mickleham, Dorking, RH5, 01372 385002, Co-Ed: 11 – 18, Sat 5 Oct 10.00am, www.boxhillschool.com

Sutton Postcodes Homefield Preparatory, Sutton, SM1, 020 8642 0965, Boys 2½-13, Sat 28 Sep 10.00— 1.00pm, www.homefield.sutton.sch.uk Sutton Grammar School for Boys (Academy), Sutton, SM1, 020 8642 3821, Boys 11-18, Thu 12 Sep: 4.00—9.00pm, www.suttongrammar.sutton.sch.uk Sutton High, Sutton, SM1, 020 8225 3001, Girls 3-18, Sat 21 Sep: 10.00—12.30pm (whole school), www.suttonhigh.gdst.net Seaton House, South Sutton, SM2, 020 8642 2332, Co-Ed: 3-5/Girls 5-11, Contact school for details, www.seatonhouse.sutton.sch.uk Greenacre School, Banstead, SM7, 01737 352114, Girls 3-18, Sat 28 Sep: 9.30—12.00pm, www.greenacre.surrey.sch.uk Priory Preparatory, Banstead, SM7, 01737 366920, Boys 2-13, Sat 21 Sep: 10.00—12.00; pop-in mornings Wed 9 Oct: 9.00—11.00, www.prioryprep.co.uk

SW Postcodes Thames Christian College, Battersea, SW11, 020 7228 3933, Co-Ed: 11-16, Sat 5 Oct: 10.001.00pm, www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk King’s College, Wimbledon, SW19, 020 8255 5300, Boys: 7-16/Co-Ed:6th Form, Sat 14 Sep: 9.30-12.30pm (whole school), www.kcs.org.uk Wimbledon High Junior, Wimbledon, SW19, 020 8971 0902, Girls 4-11, Thu 26 Sep & Tue 1 Oct: Talk by Head at 9.15am & 10.30am then school tours ending at 10.30am or 11.45am, www.wimbledonhigh.gdst.net Wimbledon High Senior, Wimbledon, SW19, 020 8971 0900, Girls 11-18, Sat 12 Oct: 9.30 – 12.30pm, www.wimbledonhigh.gdst.net

www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk

Thamesbecause small schools build big futures our exceptional independent school for boys and girls

OPEN MORNING S A T U R DAY 5th OCTOBER 10 .0 0 -1 .0 0 For full list of open mornings, enrolment and fee details contact 020 7228 3933 Thames Christian College, Wye Street, London SW11 2HB

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What’s On

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Diary dates for Autumn

September Sun 1 Sep – Sun 3 Nov Great British Walk Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road, Morden, Surrey SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 mordenhallpark@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mordenhallpark Regular programme of guided walks around the property, including guided tours, tree walks and 50 things walks for families. Free. See website for details.

Sun 1 – Mon 30 Sep 11.00 – 4.00pm daily Bug Hunt Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, nr. Dorking, Surrey RH5 6BD 01372 452048 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesdenlacey There are some very lucky bugs who have made their home in the house at Polesden. Discover these secret lodgers, and how they live life in style beneath the carpets and coving. Normal admission fees apply + £1.00 to follow the trail and look under the microscope.

Sat 7 Sep 11.00 – 3.00pm SCOLA BIG Event Manor Park, Manor Park Road, Sutton, Surrey SM1 4AF 020 8254 0830 pamisted@scola.ac.uk www.scola.ac.uk With over 50 stalls, fun activities, kids stuff, demonstrations, dog show, Radio Marsden and much more. Free Entry.

Sat 7 Sep 8.00pm Bat Walk Whitehall Museum, 1 Malden Road, Cheam SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 whitehallcheam@btconnect.com whitehallcheam@btconnect.com Come for a gentle evening stroll from Whitehall Museum around the local parks to detect bats, using bat detectors.

A unique chance to find out more about these threatened, nocturnal creatures.

The walk leaves Whitehall at 8.30pm. £4 individual/ £12 family of 4.

Sun 8 Sep 11.00am onwards Family Volunteering Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, nr. Dorking, Surrey RH5 6BD 01372 452048 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesdenlacey Every Sunday, come along for a day of family activity to help keep the lovely grounds in order, including bulb planting, scrub bashing and bug hunting. Call to register your interest.

Sun 8 Sep 11.00 – 4.00pm Open Day at The Surrey Society of Model Engineers Mill Lane, Leatherhead KT22

National Trust

9AA enquiries@ssme.co.uk www.ssme.co.uk All Rides £1.50 (multiride discount tickets 4 rides for £5.00 or 9 rides for £10). (There is no advanced booking). Snacks, teas, coffee & soft drinks can be enjoyed at their picnic tables. Toilets are available in the amenity block. Well-behaved dogs are permitted but must be kept on a lead at all times.

Fri 13 Sep 12.00 – 2.00pm Activities for under 3s Whitehall Museum, 1 Malden Road, Cheam SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 whitehallcheam@btconnect.com www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk Visit Whitehall for an afternoon of games,crafts and songs especially devised for children 3 years old and younger. Families welcome. Tickets £3, booking advised.

Sat 14 Sep 1.00 – 2.30pm Good Queen Bess Bourne Hall Museum, Spring Street, Ewell, Surrey KT17 1UF 020 8394 1734 brooksd@epsom-ewell.gov.uk www.epsomandewellhistoryexplorer. org.uk/BourneHallMuseumClub.html The royal progress of Queen Elizabeth I

London Transport Museum—Family Fun © Copyright Flikr_Timitrius

39 Wellington Street, Covent Garden WC2E 7BB 020 7379 6433 www.ltmuseum.co.uk From buses to tubes, original posters to workers and travellers’ stories, London Transport Museum explores the heritage of London and its transport system. Open 10am-6pm Saturdays to Thursdays, from 11am Fridays. Admission free for under 16s; under 12s to be accompanied.

ALL ABOARD! Let your under 6 ‘drive’ a scaled-down bus, train, tube or taxi, complete with passengers. They can also take control of the transport system, moving buses and trains around the museum’s miniature London.

FAMILY STATION. Pick up a free coin bag and choose some activities to do as you explore the Museum. Whether you fold your own bus and drive it between the vehicles, design your own poster-postcards or take photos through Flickr frames, there is something here for families with children of all ages.

LOOK FOR LONGER, until December 2013. Enjoy playing a cryptic Underground game in the galleries where you try to find the 75 London Underground and DLR stations hidden within interactive graphics. You can also play at home at www.lookforlonger.com.

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will halt at one of the Queen’s favourite palaces, Nonsuch, in Ewell and allow local citizens to join the Queen’s court.

Meet the Virgin Queen in all her splendour and listen as she tells the story of her life and the news of court. £4.00 per child. Further details available from David Brooks.

Sat 14 Sep 10.00am Discovering art in the landscape: Children’s art workshops Chartwell, Mapleton Road, Westerham, Kent TN16 1PS 01732 861148 Emily.Christmas@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell Hosted by professional artist Cathy Bird, children can explore some fun drawing and painting techniques. For more details contact Emily Christmas. Booking Essential 0844 249 1895. Booking Fee Applies. Book online.

Sat 14 Sep 10.00am Heritage Open Day Chartwell, Mapleton Road, Westerham, Kent TN16 1PS 01732 868381 chartwell@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell Visit the gardens and studio for free. Entry to the house: Adult: £6, Child: £3, Family: £15.

Sat 14 Sep 10.00 – 6.00pm (last entry 5.30pm) Heritage Open Day Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher, Surrey KT10 9JG 01372 467 806 claremont@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremont Free entry to the Garden as part of the National Heritage Open Day. Belvedere Tower is open from 2.00 – 4.00pm.

Suitable for all ages. Adult: £7.50, child: £3.75, Family: £18.75, under 5s and NT members free.

Sat 14 Sep 12.00 – 5.00pm / 6.0011.00pm Beer by the River Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road, Morden, Surrey SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 mordenhallpark@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mordenhallpark Come for a day packed with live entertainment, local gourmet food and ale. Families welcome to the afternoon session, which includes face painting, children’s crafts and a petting farm.

Please note the evening session is adults only. Please see website for more details: www.beerbytheriver.com

Sat 14 Sep 3.00 – 4.30pm NCT Nearly New Sale St Andrews Church, Northey Avenue, Cheam SM2 7HF suttonnns@nct.org.uk Contact Jo for further details. Priority entry for NCT members on presentation of membership card from 3.00 – 3.15pm.

Sun 15 Sep Banstead Countryside Day held in the field by Holly Lane Car Park, Holly Lane, Banstead/Chipstead (B2219). Nearest SATNAV: CR5 3NR 01737 737700 www.downlandsproject.org.uk Sun, Sheep, Strolls and Stalls Galore – the annual family event organised by the Downlands Countryside Management Project in association with the Downlands Trust, Reigate & Banstead Borough Council and Heritage Open Days. The theme of the day is a celebration of the local countryside, history, community and rural/traditional crafts. For further information contact the Downlands Project.

Sun 15 Sep 11.00am onwards Family Volunteering Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, nr. Dorking, Surrey RH5 6BD 01372 452048 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesdenlacey See 8 Sep entry for details.

Wed 18 Sep 10.00am Bach to Baby Concert – Brave Neo World at Holy Trinity Church, 234 Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB www.bachtobaby.com/wimbledon Featuring Tim Lowe, ‘cello & Andrew Brownell, piano. “Monmouth Coffee Mingle” from 10.00am with concert beginning at 10.30am and ending by 11.30am Sat 21 Sep 10.30 – 4.30pm Birds of Prey Day Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher, Surrey KT10 9JG 01372 467 806 claremont@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremont See a wide variety of birds plus two flying displays during the day. Suitable for all ages. Normal admission fees apply.

Sat 21 & Sun 22 Sep 10.00 – 5.00pm London Open House Weekend Honeywood Museum, Honeywood Walk, Carshalton SM5 3NX lbshoneywood@btconnect.com www.friendsofhoneywood.co.uk The annual event showcasing London’s architecture. Colouring sheets will be available for children.

Sat 21 & Sun 22 Sep 11.00 – 3.00pm Open House Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road, Morden, Surrey SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 mordenhallpark@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mordenhallpark Bring along the family for regular behind the scenes tours of the park, their sustainable stable yard and Archimedes screw turbine. Free Sat 21 Sep and Sun 22 Sep Sat: 10am-5pm; Sun 2pm-5pm London Open House Weekend Whitehall Museum, 1 Malden Road, Cheam SM3 8QD 020 8643 1236 whitehallcheam@btconnect.com www.friendsofwhitehallcheam.co.uk A weekend celebrating architecture and neighbourhoods. Whitehall is among the many local buildings opening their doors to everyone. Free event.

Sat 21 Sep and Sun 22 Sep Sat 10am-6pm. Sun: 10am-4pm Horticultural and Cookery Show 2013 Woodcote Green Garden Centre, Woodmansterne Lane, Wallington, Surrey SM6 0SU 020 8647 6838 mail@woodcotegreen.com

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September-October 2013

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Bocketts Farm Park

www.woodcotegreen.com Bring the whole family for a great day out. There will be a variety of activities taking place as well as some of the Farm Shop suppliers offering a free taste of their delicious produce. The prize giving will take place at 3.00-4.00pm on the Saturday. It’s all free and under cover.

Sun 22 Sep 1.30 – 3.00pm Explore Green Manure – Beanstalk Project activity at the Carshalton Community Allotment, Westmead Allotment Site, SM5 2PW. 020 8770 6611 beanstalk@ecolocal.org.uk www.localfoodnetwork.org.uk Discover why lots of green manures are so useful in your garden. Play Sniff the Wiff, try fun planting activities, collect free green manure seeds. There’s also lots of harvesting to be done (and taken home and eaten). Activities are most suitable for ages 4+. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult throughout the session. Free session but book in advance as spaces are limited.

Sun 22 Sep 12.00 – 5.00pm Epsom & Ewell Borough Family Fun Day Hook Road Arena, Hook Road, Epsom, Surrey KT19 8QG 07986 947 974 info@epsomfunday.net www.epsomfunday.net A community family day with local charities, community groups and businesses running affordable family games and entertainment. Free attractions, shows and presentations with vintage car shows and a picnic area.

Sun 22 Sep 11.00am onwards Family Volunteering Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, nr. Dorking, Surrey RH5 6BD 01372 452048 See 8 Sep entry for further details Sat 28 Sep 10.00 – 12.00pm (9.45am NCT member entry) NCT Croydon Nearly New Sale at All Saint’s Church, Onslow Gardens, Sanderstead CR2 9AB 0844 243 6100 nearlynewsellers@ nctcroydon.co.uk Contact Carly for more information. Admission by donation to NCT Charity (£1 suggested).

Sat 28 Sep 10.00 – 1.00pm Family Fun: Den Building at Painshill Painshill Park, Portsmouth Road, Cobham, Surrey KT11 1JE 01932 868113 info@painshill.co.uk www.painshill.co.uk Get back to nature with a special family den building outdoor activity. Have fun creating your own shelter in the woods with the help of an experienced instructor. Finish off the morning with marshmallows and hot chocolate by a camp fire. For children aged 5 to 13 years. (One adult required for every two children). Advanced booking required.

Sun 29 Sep Tours at 2.00 and 3.30pm Carew Manor Guided Tours of Great Hall and Dovecote See Sutton’s only Grade 1 listed building with its latemedieval hammer-beamed Great Hall roof built by Richard Carew c.1500,in the company of an expert guide. Includes a visit to the interior of the nearby 18th century octagonal Dovecote. £5 (£4.50 for members of local Heritage Friends groups). Advance booking from 020 8770 4781.

Sun 29 Sep 11.00am The Diamond Centre Autumn Fair Woodmansterne Road, Carshalton SM5 4DT Sun 29 Sep 11.00 – 4.00pm The Living Wandle Launch Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road, Morden, Surrey SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 mordenhallpark@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mordenhallpark Discover more about the nature, wildlife & history of the River Wandle and have a go at rubber duck racing and river dipping. Free event.

October Tue 1 – Thu 31 Oct The Big Draw Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com/whats-on/thebig-draw-2013 Whether you’re a budding artist or simply enjoy drawing for fun, pop along to Polka and get creative with the free Big Draw. Visit their website for more details.

Fri 4 Oct 3.30pm Bach to Baby Concert – Flights of Fantasy at Holy Trinity Church, 234 Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB www.bachtobaby.com/wimbledon Featuring Andrew Brownell, piano.

“Monmouth Coffee Mingle” from 3.30pm with concert beginning at 4.00pm and ending by 5.00pm Sat 5 Oct 11.00 – 4.00pm Woodland Weekend Chartwell, Mapleton Road, Westerham, Kent TN16 1PS 01732 861148 Emily.Christmas@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell Visit for a weekend devoted to the woodland estate. Families will find a storyteller in the quarry at the campfire, where she will be roasting marshmallows all weekend. Contact Emily Christmas for more details.

Sat 5 Oct 10.30 – 12.30pm Fungi Foray Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher, Surrey KT10 9JG 01372 467 806 claremont@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremont Join expert Sara Shepley for a seasonal Fungi Foray walk. Suitable for over 5s.

Adult: £8, Child: £4 + Normal admission fees.

Sun 6 Oct 1.00 – 5.00pm Gardens and grounds open Gatton Park, Rocky Lane RH2 0TW 01737 649066 education@v-park.org.uk www.gattonpark.com Park and gardens open all afternoon. Free guided tours and free activities available for children. Normal entrance fees apply See website for more details.

Sun 6 Oct 11.00 – 3.00pm Apple Day Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road, Morden, Surrey SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 mordenhallpark@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mordenhallpark Come and join in the apple tasting and apple printing in the stable yard. Free Sat 12 Oct 2.00 – 4.00pm Cheeky Monkey’s Tea Party ChristChurch Purley, 861-863 Brighton Road, Purley, Croydon CR8 2BN 07939 527 589 sianwilliams5@aol.com Come and enjoy a fun-filled family afternoon with the NCT. Entry £1 donation per adult, Children under 16 go free. Contact Sian Hewitt for more details.

Sat 12 Oct 11.00 – 3.00pm SCOLA

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Family Fun Day at Amy Johnson Children’s Centre, Brabazon Avenue, Wallington Surrey SM6 9ET 020 8647 3183 familylearning@scola.ac.uk www.scola.ac.uk SCOLA & Amy Johnson Centre have combined forces to put on a free family learning activities day.

Sun 13 Oct 10.00 – 6.00pm (last entry 5.30pm) Autumn Glory National Gardens Scheme Day Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher, Surrey KT10 9JG 01372 467 806 claremont@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremont Free Guided Walk at 2.00pm with a member of the gardening team. Suitable for over 5s. Normal admission fees apply.

Sun 13 Oct Woodland Skills Workshop Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, nr. Dorking, Surrey RH5 6BD 01372 452048 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesdenlacey Drop in and learn a new skill with Andy and the Ranger team. Whittling, hurdle making and using a pole lathe. Normal admission fees apply.

What’s On Sun 13 Oct 11.00 – 4.00pm Open Day at The Surrey Society of Model Engineers Mill Lane, Leatherhead KT22 9AA enquiries@ssme.co.uk www.ssme.co.uk All Rides £1.50 (multiride discount tickets 4 rides for £5.00 or 9 rides for £10). (There is no advanced booking). Snacks, teas, coffee & soft drinks can be enjoyed at their picnic tables. Toilets are available in the amenity block. Well behaved dogs are permitted but must be kept on a lead at all times.

Wed 16 Oct 10.00am Bach to Baby Concert – Flights of Fantasy at Holy Trinity Church, 234 Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB www.bachtobaby.com/wimbledon Featuring Miaomiao Yu, piano.

“Monmouth Coffee Mingle” from 10.00am with concert beginning at 10.30am and ending by 11.30am Sat 19 Oct 2.00pm Autumn Colour at Claremont Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher, Surrey KT10 9JG 01372 467 806 claremont@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremont A free guided walk around Claremont.

Suitable for over 5s. Normal admission fees apply.

Sun 20 Oct Tours at 2.00 and 3.30pm Carew Manor Guided Tours of Great Hall and Dovecote For contact details: see Sept 29 entry.

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What’s On

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HALF-TERM Activities Sun 27 Oct 2.00pm Autumn Colour at Claremont Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher, Surrey KT10 9JG 01372 467 806 claremont@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremont A free guided walk around Claremont. Suitable for over 5s. Normal admission fees apply.

Mon 28 Oct – Fri 1 Nov 10.30 – 12.30pm and 2.00 – 4.00pm Denbies Craft Activities Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking RH5 6AA 01306 876616 www.denbies.co.uk From £1.50 per activity. Face painting from £3.00 Mon 28 Oct – Thu 31 Oct 11.00 – 3.00pm Lego Exhibition Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking RH5 6AA 01306 876616 www.denbies.co.uk Back by popular demand. Free entry Mon 28 & Tue 29 Oct 11.30am and 2.30pm Lego Build Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking RH5 6AA 01306 876616 www.denbies.co.uk Free entry to sessions but spaces are limited so book early.

Mon 28 Oct 10.00 – 2.00pm Henfold Birds of Prey Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking RH5 6AA 01306 876616 www.denbies.co.uk Main display at midday, weather permitting. Free event.

Mon 28 Oct 10.00 – 12.30pm Eco Experts Club...

Become a Natural Art Expert Sutton Ecology Centre, The Old Rectory, Festival Walk, Carshalton, Surrey SM5 3NY 020 8770 5822 (booking line) biodiversity@ sutton.gov.uk www.sutton.gov.uk/biodiversity/events

HALF-TERM Workshops

Make art out in nature using wonderful autumn colours, fruits and found treasures. Take photos of your art to take home in an arty frame you have made. £5 per child. Suitable for: 7+ years. Booking is essential by calling or emailing.

Tue 29 Oct 11.00am and 2.00pm Curiously Creepy Crawly Roadshow Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking RH5 6AA 01306 876616 www.denbies.co.uk Pre-booking recommended. £6.75 per child Wed 30 Oct 10.00 – 12.00pm or 1.30 – 3.30pm All about Owls Gatton Park, Reigate, Surrey RH2 0TW 01737 649066 education@gatton-park.org.uk www.gattonpark.com/afcaf.html Discover more about these creatures of the night through games, art and trails. For ages 4—7 years. £6 per child.

Fri 1 Nov 10.00 – 11.30am / 1.30 – 3.00pm Toddler Tales and Trails Gatton Park, Reigate, Surrey RH2 0TW 01737 649066 education@gatton-park.org.uk www.gattonpark.com/afcaf.html Enjoy the story of Room on the Broom and go for a walk around the park to bring the story to life. Return to create artwork linked to the story. For ages 2 – 4 years. £6 per child. Booking essential. For more details visit their website.

Sun 3 Nov 11.00 – 3.00pm Family Festival Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road, Morden, Surrey SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 mordenhallpark@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mordenhallpark Family fun day with craft workshops and activities, including mosaics, printing and much more. Free.

Crazy Science Workshop Maria: 0845 201 1268 www.eddiecatz.com Fri 1 Nov 10.00 – 1.00pm Eddie Catz, 42 Station Road, Merton Surrey SW19 2LP For ages 5—10 years (drop off). A workshop all budding scientists will love. Kids have a chance to be hands on with science. Includes activities such as racing tornados, making giant bubbles, exploding volcanoes, fun with magnetic cars, exploding coke fountains, kaleidoscopes, binoculars and slime making.

Learn to Cook: Children’s Half Term Pop-Up Bake Clubs learntocook.info@gmail.com www.learntocookgoodfood.com Mon 28 & Tue 29 Oct 10.30-12.30pm 2 Glyn House 43 Burgh Heath Rd Epsom KT17 4LY For ages 7+. Holiday only pop-up bake clubs but cooking parties also catered for all year round. Pop-up bake clubs give children a taster for just how enjoyable learning to cook can be. Each pop-up club has a theme: Cake Pops, Cool Cupcake Decorating, Chocolate Heaven, Tea time Treats to name a few. If they really do enjoy it, Learn to Cook can arrange a party for them and some friends around a cooking theme of their choice.

They can learn and have fun at the same time. Cost £20 per child.

Local Theatres and shows Charles Cryer Studio Theatre 39 High Street, Carshalton SM5 3BB 020 8770 6990 www.suttontheatres.co.uk Big Red Bath Sat 21 Sep 11.00am & 2.30pm Come on a bubbly, barmy bath time adventure around the world and home again celebrating all things bath time.

The Railway Children Wed 30 Oct – Sat 2 Nov (various times) E. Nesbit’s tale is brought to life. When Bobbie, Peter and Phylis’s father is wrongfully imprisoned, they discover the adventure that only the railway can bring.

The Colour House Children’s Theatre Merton Abbey Mills, Watermill Way, London SW19 2RD 020 8542 5511 (information) 020 8542 5511 (bookings) www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk Pinocchio Sat 7 Sep – Sun 10 Nov 2.00pm & 4.00pm A musical production of the famous classic Pinocchio. Will Pinocchio find his way home and become a real boy? Come along and find out. Recommended for ages 3+ years.

Epsom Playhouse Ashley Avenue, Epsom, Surrey KT18 5AL 01372 742 555 www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk Treasure Island Mon 2 Sep 2.30pm Take the family on a merry romp to the sunny Caribbean with Cambridge Touring Theatre’s musical adaptation. Suitable for all ages, this swashbuckling family musical is interactive and full of laughs and catchy tunes. Boys and girls are invited to dress up in their best pirate fashion. Pre-show drama workshop for ages 5—10 years: limited places, so book early.

Bananas in Pyjamas Sat 28 Sep 11.00am and 2.00pm The return to the stage of Milkshake’s top Bananas in Pyjamas, B1 & B2 along with their friends in a new action packed show.

Scrooge Mon 28 Oct 2.30pm An innovative production of the Dickens’ tale.

The first part of the production is a light hearted half hour rehearsal in which the audience is taught the chorus of four songs and ten children are chosen and rehearsed

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The Elephant Bridesmaid at the Harlequin Theatre

into small parts in the play. During a break those taking part are costumed and the show lasting one hour, runs seamlessly with everyone taking part.

Fireside Tales with Grandad Wed 30 Oct 2.30pm Exquisite puppets, captivating storytelling, beautiful shadow puppetry combine to create an enchanting show; ages 4-104.

Written especially for parents to enjoy with their children, The show is a magical musical about weddings and wombats and the loveliest elephant the world has ever known.

Come to the theatre wearing your own fancy clothes (or fancy dress) for the chance to take part in a fabulous fashion show live on stage with the actors. Suitable for ages 4 – 104.

Fairfield Halls Park Lane, Croydon, CR9 1DG 020 8688 9291 www.fairfield.co.uk Tales from the Jungle Book Sun 15 Sep 4.30pm A fun-filled, musical journey through the jungle with Mowgli and his friends Baloo and Bagheera.

Horrible Science Tue 29 Oct – Sat 2 Nov (various times) Using actors and the jaw-dropping 3D Bogglevision, this astounding show has the awful answers to some awful scientific questions. Guaranteed to thrill you and your children.

Peppa Pig’s Big Splash Sat 2 & Sun 3 Nov (various times)

New Wimbledon Theatre The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1QG 0870 060 6646 www.newwimbledontheatre.co.uk Scrooge the Musical Wed 23 – Sat 26 Oct 2.30 & 7.30pm Don’t miss Ebenezer, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim, the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future and a whole host of Dickensian characters in the award winning, international smash hit musical Scrooge.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Tue 29 Oct – Sat 2 Nov (various times) Retelling the Biblical story of Joseph, his eleven brothers and the coat of many colours, Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sparkling family musical is full of unforgettable songs.

The Harlequin Theatre & Cinema Warwick Quadrant, Redhill RH1 1NN 01737 276500 www.harlequintheatre.co.uk The Elephant Bridesmaid Sat 14 Sep 2.30pm

Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com The Planet and Stuff Fri 27 Sep – Sat 26 Oct (various times)

One simple question: ‘How can we solve climate change? Part live science demo, part interactive game show this a the fact-packed, straight climate change event with all the answers. For ages 9 – 13 years. See our competition to win a Family ticket on p3.

Egg and Spoon Tue 1 Oct – Sat 5 Oct (various times) Relax on comfy cushions as Percy and April guide you through the four seasons and celebrate the wonders of nature. For ages 6 months—3 years.

Gorilla Wed 16 Oct – Sat 15 Feb (various times) When Hannah’s toy gorilla comes to life, dressed in her father’s coat and hat, they embark on a thrilling, moonlit adventure.

Suitable for ages 3 – 5 years with a special version (Mini Gorilla) suitable for 1—2 year olds. See their website for details.

Tea Time Wed 30 Oct – Sat 2 Nov (various times) The perfect show for anyone who has ever made an island out of mash with a sea of gravy, pretended a spoon of yoghurt was a steam train or realised that food is just as much fun at the end of your nose at it is in your mouth. For ages 4—7 years. Watch with Baby performance: Thur 31 Oct 11.00am.

Treasure Island Sat 9 Nov 2.00pm Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic story of young Jim Hawkins and Long John Silver, retold by acclaimed children’s writer Mike Kenny – with a twist. For ages 7+ years. Watch with Baby performance: Sat 9 Nov 11.00am Secombe Theatre 42 Cheam Road, Sutton, SM1 2SS 020 8770 6990 www.suttontheatres.co.uk Imagine Festival Fri 27 Sep – Sun 6 Oct (various times) Sutton’s Festival of Arts, now in it’s 7th year.

Events will be held throughout the Borough in theatres, heritage venues and libraries. www.suttontheatres.co.uk/imagine SOUWEST 2013 Tue 29 Oct – Sat 2 Nov (various times) The South West London Gang Show — a variety show for all the family performed by 100 Scouts and Guides.

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What’s On

HALLOWEEN 2013

Families London-Surrey Borders has searched high and low to find fun things to do with your children in the Epsom, Sutton and Croydon areas, plus a little further afield, this Halloween.

BOCKETTS FARM PARK

CARSHALTON ALLOTMENTS

Young St, Fetcham, Surrey KT22 9BS 01372 363764 www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

Westmead Allotment Site, SM5 2PW 020 8770 6611 beanstalk@ecolocal.org.uk www.localfoodnetwork.org.uk

Sat 26 Oct – Sun 3 Nov

Smashing Pumpkins

Mon 28 Oct 1.00 – 3.00pm

Wizards and Witches Week

Enjoy a packed programme of fun and freaky activities including a spooky quiz trail and creepy crafts. There will also be hundreds of pumpkins for sale. Daily activities include pony rides, tractor rides, animal handling and pig racing. In addition, the Small Animal Village and Big Animal Barn are open where you can meet and feed all of the friendly farm animals. With 2 large indoor play barns, trampolines, young driver’s area and a jumping pillow, there’s plenty to keep the whole family amused. The Old Barn Tearooms serving homemade hot food, drinks and snacks and the Gift Shop, selling a wide range of gifts and toys, will be open all day.

There are many pumpkins growing at the allotment. Help with the digging, autumn planting and weeding, then harvesting and carving your own pumpkin to take home. Activities are most suitable for ages 4+.

Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult throughout the session. Free activity but advance booking is essential as spaces are limited.

CHARTWELL Mapleton Road, Westerham, Kent TN16 1PS 01732 861161 chartwell.restaurant@nationaltrust.org.uk Thu 31 Oct and Fri 1 Nov 4.00 – 6.00pm (Gates open 3.45pm)

Family Hallowe’en Twilight Trail and supper

Bo

Come to the Chartwell restaurant for an early light supper and be introduced to a thrilling hallowe’en children’s tale before embarking on a trail through the gardens.

ck et ts Fa rm Pa rk

Food will be served at the Chartwell Restaurant at 3.00pm and the trail will commence at 4.00pm. Suitable for children 4 years and over to be accompanied by an adult. Contact the restaurant for more details.

Bocketts Farm Park 26th Oct - 3rd Nov

WIZARDS & WITCHES WEEK ENJOY A SPOOKTACULAR DAY OUT

October Half Term Events

C O F F E E B A R

› Wizards & Witches Trail! › Creepy crafts!

Claremont Landscape Garden, Esher 01372 467806 Morden Hall Park, Morden 020 8545 6850 Polesden Lacey, Bookham 01372 452048

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/southeast

Enjoy our heated play barn, new seating area and Coffee Shop!

THE COW SHED

› Hundreds of pumpkins!

Keep the children amused at a National Trust property near you this Halloween

There's a full programme of events at all our properties this Autumn

NEW THIS AUTUMN:

PLUS

Animal handling, Goat milking, Tractor Rides, Pony Rides and Pig Racing EVERYDAY!

www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

SPECIAL

OFFER

D AR AW WI NN ING !

£1 per person off full price farm entry

(max 5 people) valid any day from 1st Sept - 25th Oct 2013. Only with this voucher.

Registered charity No. 205846.

29

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What’s On

CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN LEEDS CASTLE Maidstone, Kent ME17 1PL 01622 765400 enquiries@leedscastle.co.uk www.leeds-castle.com

Portsmouth Road, Esher, Surrey KT10 9JG 01372 467 806 claremont@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremont Mon 28 Oct – Fri 1 Nov 11.00 – 1.00pm

Halloween Craft Workshops

Come along to the Spooky Cottage for Pumpkin Carving on the Monday (bring your own pumpkin) or Halloween Crafts, Tuesday to Friday. Suitable for all ages. Normal Admission fees apply + £1.50.

Sat 26 Oct – Sun 3 Nov 10.00 – 4.00pm

Spooky Halloween Trail

Follow the spooky Halloween trail around the garden. Suitable for all ages. Normal Admission fees apply + 50p per trail.

Thu 31 Oct

spooktacular walk around the lake

Dress up for Halloween and bring your lantern for a spooktacular walk around the lake. Scary Storytelling sessions in the play area at 4.00, 4.30 and 5.00pm. Suitable for all ages but very young children may be scared. Normal Admission (NA) fees apply + 50p for storytelling, bookable on arrival.

NA Fees: Adult £7.50, child £3.75, Family £18.75, under 5s and NT members free. Children dressed in Halloween costume have free entry to the garden this week.

DENBIES WINE ESTATE London Road, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6AA 01306 876616 www.denbies.co.uk Wed 30 Oct 11.00am and 2.00pm

‘The Spookiest Fairy Tale Ever Told!’

A Hobgoblin Children’s Theatre Company production. £6.75 per child, with accompanying adults: free.

Thu 31 Oct 11.00 – 12.30pm

Little Monster’s Spooky Spectacular Halloween Disco

To be held in Denbies vaulted cellar. £7.25 per child. Pre-booking for these events, by calling or online, is recommended.

GATTON PARK Reigate, Surrey RH2 0TW 01737 649066 education@gatton-park.org.uk www.gattonpark.com/afcaf.html Sun 27 Oct 5.00pm onwards

Gatton Ghost Stories

A guide will lead you around the Ghostly Gatton Park to hear some spooky stories to scare your socks off. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Tours start at 5.00pm, 6.00pm, and 7.00pm. £5.00pp. For families with children aged 7+. Booking essential. The first tour is for younger children — they get spookier the later you come.

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26 Oct – 3 Nov (Grounds open at 10.00am daily and the castle is open from 10.30am. Last admission is 4.30pm and gates close at 6.00pm) Join in the fun with creepy crafts, face painting, ‘spooky maze’ and a pumpkin trail through the grounds. Raggedy Jack will be on hand with ghostly tales and stories Come dressed to scare for the daily fancy dress competition at 2.00pm with prizes for the best costume.

Your ‘Key to the Castle’ ticket is valid for this event.

Older visitors can discover the unpleasant side of Leeds Castle on All Hallows Eve with the ‘Blood, Boils and Black Death’ new evening tour.

The guides will take you on a grisly walk through the dark castle at night, whilst telling you the wonderfully gruesome history, including tales of the time the castle was used as a hospital and the outbreak of the Black Death. Evening tour tickets cost £15 per person.

Spaces are limited so need to be pre-booked online at www.leeds-castle.com/events

MORDEN HALL PARK Morden Hall Road, Morden, Surrey SM4 5JD 020 8545 6850 mordenhallpark@nationaltrust. org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ mordenhallpark Wed 30 & Thu 31 Oct

Halloween Spooktacular

Come along this Halloween for lots of fun spooktacular activities and trails, including pumpkin carving and creepy crawly bug hunts. See website for prices.

POLESEDEN LACEY Great Bookham, nr. Dorking, Surrey RH5 6BD 01372 452048 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesdenlacey Sat 26 Oct – Sun 3 Nov

Halloween Spooks & Stories

Scary ghost stories in the wild woods. Normal admission fees apply, plus £2 per child.

POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com Tue 29 Oct – Wed 30 Oct 10.30 – 3.30pm

Halloween Scene

Create your very own stop frame animation short film inspired by Halloween. £60 for two days.

For ages 8 – 13 years. More details at www.polkatheatre.com/whats-on/halloween-scene Thu 31 Oct 10.00 – 12.30pm (6 – 10 years); 1.30 – 4.00pm (10 – 13 years)

Stage Fright

Work with a professional make-up artist to create special Halloween themed make up effects. £25 pp. More details at www.polkatheatre.com/whats-on/stage-fright-6-9-years Fri 1 Nov 9.45 – 11.00am (3 – 4 years), 11.30– 12.45pm (5 – 6 years)

Make a Monster

Create and design your very own monster shadow puppets and gather round as their storyteller brings them to life in this drama and craft workshop. £15 pp. More details at www.polkatheatre.com/whats-on/make-a-monster-3-4-years

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September-October 2013

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SUTTON ECOLOGY CENTRE

What’s On

inflatables, trampolines and more. Great value too with most activities included in entry* and mostly undercover. (*small extra charge for corn cannon and pumpkin chucker)

The Old Rectory, Festival Walk, Carshalton, Surrey, SM5 3NY www.sutton.gov.uk/biodiversity/events

WOODCOTE GREEN GARDEN CENTRE

Tue 29 Oct 10.00 – 2.00pm

Halloween Trail

Follow the spooky Halloween trail and plant some seeds to take home. £2 pp. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No need to book, just turn up any time.

TULLEYS FARM Turners Hill Road, Turners Hill, Crawley, West Sussex RH10 4PE www.FamilyHalloween.co.uk Sat 19 Oct Open from 10.30am

Pumpkin Carving Competition

Calling all children.

Join the fancy dress parade and enter your own pumpkin for the carving competition (bring your creation or carve at the park). Entry to the competition is free for those visiting Tulleys Farm’s Spooktober Fest (fun by day) Shocktober Fest (scares by night). Get your pumpkin entry in by 6.00pm, judging is at 6.30pm.

Woodmansterne Lane, Wallington, Surrey SM6 0SU 020 8647 6838 mail@woodcotegreen.com www.woodcotegreen.com Mon 28 Oct – Fri 1 Nov 9.30 – 5.00pm, daily

Spooky Zoo

Once again, the Spooky Zoo is visiting Woodcote Green, so bring the children along to see and handle a variety of animals including lizards, pythons and spiders which will be making appearances at various points throughout the week. Have your photo taken with them and take part in the Halloween related fun and games running during the week. There will be hourly sessions available from 9.30am onwards with the last session at 4.30pm. Entry tickets are £1.00 per child, with all proceeds to go to the Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity.

To guarantee entry, advance booking online is recommended from October. Limited tickets will also be available at the centre on the day, on a first-come-first-served basis. This event will be held under cover, so suitable for all weather conditions and there is ample free parking available.

Fireworks Displays and Parties Planning where to go on Bonfire Night? Visit www.families-LSB.co.uk and check out our extensive list of local Bonfire & Fireworks displays.

Sat 19/20 Oct, Sat 26 Oct – Sat 2 Nov Open from 10.30am

Spooktober Fest

Packed with spine tingling surprises, milder thrills and bags of excitement the park boasts 6 family Halloween attractions alongside plenty more activities. Enter the Creepy Cottage, climb aboard the Horrid Hayride (with live actors in the afternoon), or solve the Circus Maze. For younger guests, there’s the Boo Barn and Spooky Trail too. A full day of fun with children’s shows, pumpkin

Leeds CastLe

Halloween at Half term 26 October – 3 November Half term fun for the whole family with creepy crafts, a spooky maze, face painting and a pumpkin trail through the grounds. Come dressed to scare for our daily fancy dress competition.

Pay once and visit all year round.

Terms and conditions apply.

Visit our website for details and ticket prices.

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oNe

The Ultimate Indoor Adventure Park

Enjoy Kidspace from as little as £0.25 a day

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Must be completed online Buy an annual pass and spread the cost of your membership over the year* Pay by direct debit and enjoy Kidspace from as little as: £7.50p/m for under 3s £7.91p/m for over 3s £1.66p/m for additional adults Members' benefits include 15% off parties, 10% off holiday clubs, reduced 'Big Event' admission, discount vouchers, unlimited visits!

You can also book your day tickets in advance online, saving you up to 15% off the entry fee**

For more info visit our website www.kidspaceadventures.com * Must be completed online ** Excluding February and October Half Term

• Hobbledown is a 50-acre farm • New for 2013 - underground park adventure featuring towers, tunnels, Merrydown Parade & mazes, aerial walkways, a daring falconry displays. high ropes course & a 14,000 sq ft • With our own Zoo Licence, we indoor play barn. have more than 100 animals Follow us on facebook; hobbledownuk

and twitter; @Hobbledown

Find us at: Hobbledown Children’s Farm Horton Lane, Epsom, Surrey KT19 8PT T: 0843 289 4979 E: thehobblers@hobbledown.com www.hobbledown.com

Kidspace Croydon Unit 3, The Colonnades, 619 Purley Way, Croydon, Surrey CR0 4RQ

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September-October 2013