Families London West Issue 103 October 2015

ISSUE 103 OCTOBER 2015 www.familieswest.co.uk

Half Term Special • How to choose your child’s next school • Half Term workshops • School Open Days information • What’s On locally for families

Families West · PO Box 32231 · London W5 1JR · Tel: 020 8930 4707 · Email: familieswest@yahoo.co.uk

news & views

In this issue: We are back and talking about the one thing that most parents worry about; Education and schools. We have plenty of information to give you, what to look for, how to choose and news about current developments at some schools in and around West London. There are still opportunities to visit most of the state and independent schools - open days at the latter are in the issue, and dates (and contact details) for all schools are listed on our website under the Education tag. The end of October sees a run of events for families with half term, Halloween and Fireworks nights.

There are heaps of listings for all three in our Whats on pages.

They are all also listed in our ‘What's on’ widget online where you can check what is going on by date and by venue. As you read this we will be busy preparing that ‘C Word’ issue.

Look out for it in mid November.

In this issue News & Views Education & School Open Days Half Term Worshops/Fireworks What’s On in West London Classified Section Like us on Facebook Families West Magazine

Page 2 Page 6 Page 14 Page 15 Page 19 Follow us on Twitter @FamiliesWest

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Is it too early to mention the C word?

Labels4Kids has started a great range of personalised gifts for Christmas or birthdays from Disney, Hasbro, Nickelodeon and Mattel for your kids! Have your child’s name and the names of their friends into a story like Disney Frozen or Spongebob. Everything from Ninja Turtles to Disney Princess, books, clocks and name tags. Allow 3 weeks for delivery as they are custom made to your personal requirements.

Go to: www.labels4kids.com/personalised-gift-range/ disney-marvel-nickelodeon.html to see more.

New parents can register births at a children’s centre to receive more than a certificate New parents in Hammersmith and Fulham now have the option to register births at a children’s centre. In a trial at Old Oak Community and Children’s Centre, parents will receive not just a certificate, but a whole host of services.

The centre provides families with advice and early years’ education alongside baby massage, drop-in play sessions and coffee mornings. If the scheme is successful the council will start implementing it at other children’s centres in the borough. New births can be registered now at Old Oak Community and Children’s Centre and will take place every fortnight until mid-October. Parents can still register births at Hammersmith Town Hall register office. Book an appointment online at: www.lbhf.gov.uk/registerbirth or call the Town Register Office on 020 8753 2140.

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

October 2015

news & views Two special musical events on offer for children Children aged 7-12 are invited to take part in two unique music programmes organised by Ealing Music Service; Big Sing and Big Play. Both are designed to improve children’s musicality, develop skills and boost their confidence. Big Sing will take place over six Saturday afternoons. For the first five sessions youngsters will take over Greenford Community Centre learning to sing together as a choir in a number of different musical styles. On the sixth session, they will perform for their friends and families in a special concert.Big Sing is open to everyone, including those with no previous experience of group singing. The first five sessions will take place on the following dates from 1-5pm: 14 November, 16 January, 5 March, 23 April and 28 May. Big Play takes place over six different Saturday afternoons at Greenford Community Centre.

Children who are learning brass, woodwind (flute, clarinet and saxophone) and string instruments and who are of grade one to three standard are invited to come along and take part.

The first five sessions will take place on the following days from 1-5pm: 3 October, 5 December, 6 February, 12 March and 21 May. And on Saturday, 9 July both Big Play and Big Sing participants will come together for one special performance for their family and friends. The courses cost £30, with a 50% discount for children who receive free school meals.

All places will be offered on a first-come-first-served basis. www.ealingmusicservice.com

October 2015

It’s Chocs away at The Arts Place October Half-Term Drama Camp!

Acting, singing and prop making...

The Arts Place Drama Camps are a chance for children to fully immerse themselves in the world of theatre!

The Arts Place was founded by actress Emily Plumtree (National Theatre, Royal Shakespeare Company, The Globe), who is passionate about sharing her knowledge and love of drama with young people. Following the success of their ‘Wizard of Oz’ Summer Drama Camp for 4-11 year olds this summer, The Arts Place will be running an action-packed Half-term Drama Camp for 4-8 year olds at St Stephen’s Church in Ealing, from 26th-30th October from 9:30-3:30pm each day. This time it’s off to Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory, for a week of drama, singing, crafts and a world of pure imagination. Emily says, “We run a number of drama clubs across West London and I’m really proud of the work that we do. Our drama camps offer children the challenge of putting on a show to friends and family in 5 days - it’s so rewarding to watch children pull together as a company to create a quality performance developing their acting skills, confidence and friendships as they go!”

To sign up to the Half-Term Drama Camp email: info@theartsplace.co.uk or call Emily on 07890 493 920.

Visit: www.theartsplace.co.uk

NOVASOL Holiday Homes in Europe With over 40 years’ experience NOVASOL, part of Wyndham Worldwide, has more than 40,000 holiday homes in 29 European countries in Northern, Central and Southern Europe across destinations like Croatia, France, Spain, Italy and Denmark. Why not like the NOVASOL UK Facebook page, subscribe to the newsletter and be inspired by the 2016 brochure for your next holiday? Have a look at our website to find out more about their cottages, farmhouses, apartments and villas with pools all over Europe!

Call us on 0845 680 5856 novasol@novasol.co.uk www.novasol.co.uk

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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news & views Perform Drama opens three new classes in West London Perform Drama Schools is starting classes at three new venues in West London. The classes will take place at The Westway Trust, 1 Thorpe Close, Ladbroke Grove in W10 on Thursdays at 4pm and 5pm for ages 4-7, Arts Educational Schools London, Cone Ripman House, 14 Bath Road, Chiswick, W4 on Sundays at 9.30am (for ages 4-7) and 11.15am (for ages 712), and at St Mary’s West Kensington, 2 Edith Road, W14 on Fridays at 4pm (for ages 4-7) and 5pm( for ages 7-12).

To book a free trial class call 0207 255 9120 or go online at: www.perform.org.uk Quote: FAMILIES40 for a £40 discount for your first term’s fees.

Tiggly Learning Tools

Paracetamol COULD have an adverse effect on developing male babies.

A Professor at the MRC Centre for Reproductive Health at the University of Edinburgh has said that the use of paracetamol for a week or more could lower a baby boy’s testosterone levels while in the womb.

Doctors recommend that women should take the lowest possible dose and take it for as short a time as possible. If they have pain or fever, these can be serious in pregnancy, so it is best they talk to their GP.

Paracetamol use ‘may harm male foetus.’

Commonly used drug associated with low testosterone To advertise in the News & Views section please contact us at: editor @familieswest .co.uk

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Designed for children aged 4 to 8 years Tiggly Words is a set of five vowel toys (a, e, i, o, u) designed by educators to interact with Tiggly's three new iPad apps: Tiggly Submarine, Tiggly Tales, and Tiggly Doctor. It focuses on helping preschoolers recognize phonemes, construct sounds and learn words.

Tiggly Maths contains 5 sleek counting toys that physically interact with three learning apps for the iPad. Lightweight and easily grasped in small hands, Tiggly Maths helps young learners understand the relationships between numbers concretely and spatially.

Tiggly’s learning products include 3 free apps that are compatible with the toys. Compatible with all generations of iPad and iPad mini (excluding iPad 1) and select Android tablets. Available in Apple Stores, Currys and Amazon.

RRP £24.99. www.tiggly.com

The London Saxophone School Swings.

Unique of its kind, The London Saxophone School aims to provide musical education of the highest quality. Its founder, saxophonist Martino Scovacricchi, welcomes students from age 9 onwards regardless of the initial level. The LSS provides top-level instruction to all from complete beginners, amateurs, professionals and the student preparing for exams, College admissions and auditions. That is why the courses are thoroughly structured for each student.

The LSS offers 1- to -1 lessons, group classes for adults, online lessons, lessons for kids, students’ concerts.

Come and join us!

To book your consultation lesson please contact Martino on: info@londonsaxophoneschool.com www.londonsaxophoneschool.com

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

October 2015

news & views

October 2015

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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education: School news Outstanding Junior Maths Challenge Results Clifton Lodge School Year 7 and 8 pupils took part in the Junior Maths Challenge (run by the United Kingdom Mathematics Trust), and did exceedingly well. Otoharu in Year 7, is one of only 30 children in the country to be awarded a gold medal for his outstanding results, scoring 64 out of 70. Two other boys also did exceptionally well and were also invited to take part in the subsequent round. Shiyer, also in Year 7 participated in the Kangaroo round and has received a qualification certificate for his great performance. Yuki in Year 8, with Otoharu got the top marks in the school for the Junior Maths Challenge and consequently were both invited to take part in the Junior Olympiad. They were both placed in the top 50 out of over 1,200 other children, receiving a distinction and a book prize each. On top of this Yuki was awarded a silver medal for his excellent performance on both sections of the challenge, only 60 participants received a silver medal. www.cliftonlodgeschool.co.uk Or call 020 8579 3662

Music at Avenue House Independent Preparatory School Avenue House School in Ealing, West London offers its pupils a wide range of musical experiences on a daily basis. As well as every form taking part in two musical classes per week, the children can choose to join an after school musical club such as Guitar Club, Junior or Senior Choirs and the Orchestra. Children can also have individual musical lessons, for example, piano lessons throughout the school day. For Early Birds, there is a morning recorder club before the school's lessons begin. There are regular opportunities for parents to enjoy their children's musical talents at performances during the school year with concerts at local venues in Ealing including The Questors Theatre and St. Stephens Church. www.avenuehouse.org

Thames Christian College Introduces New Scholarship Scheme If your child is gifted in Art, Music, Performing Arts, Sport or an academic area, they could benefit from a new scholarship scheme being introduced by independent secondary school, Thames Christian College, near Clapham Junction. The school is introducing scholarships for talented pupils which will remain throughout their time at the school, provided they maintain the expected standards. Stephen Holsgrove, Head teacher, comments: “Our size enables each pupil to be known as an individual and receive the attention they need to enhance their strengths, develop new skills and grow in confidence. At Thames we encourage and celebrate our pupils’ talents and these scholarships will enable us to support gifted pupils financially.” To apply for a scholarship, parents should write to the Registrar when applying for enrolment. Candidates will be invited to attend the scholarship day in January when they will be assessed. www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk Or contact 020 7228 3933.

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

October 2015

School news Empowering girls through education and life skills The staff at St Augustine’s Priory are dedicated to preparing their students to be highly effective women in the workplace and in the world. From Nursery upwards, the classes are outstanding and all the students have specialist teachers from their first day. In tandem with expert teaching, our girls are taught life-skills, in order to encourage development of mature, self-aware, confident and responsible adults through a wide-ranging Enrichment Programme which forms a vital part of the Sixth Form experience. Preparing girls for the future is the foundation of the school’s teaching and by working closely with organisations such as Youth Parliament, Model United Nations and the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award, to name but a few, the girls embark on new challenges outside the classroom making them truly ready for the next challenge of university. This unique London school is set in 13 acres of beautiful grounds. Here, the girls have the physical, mental and emotional freedom to grow intellectually in an environment which both supports and provides plenty of challenges. St Augustine’s Priory is Ealing’s top performing school at GCSE (Source: DfE league tables January 2015) It is an independent, Catholic day school, which welcomes girls of all faiths. www.sapriory.com 020 8997 2022

New facilities at St Benedict’s School

St Benedict’s mission of ‘Teaching a way of living’ is at the core of the holistic education that is provided throughout the School from Nursery to Sixth Form. The schools is committed to supporting all children to develop their full potential and has a distinguished academic record. Inspections by ISI (November 2012) and Westminster Diocese (September 2013) have endorsed their success in fulfilling the School’s aims and have recognised the many strengths of the School. The school welcomes children of other Christian denominations and other faiths. A huge investment in buildings and facilities is ongoing and the latest project, a £6 million Sixth Form Centre and Art, Design and Technology building, opens this term. St Benedict’s is renowned for its sporting tradition and has a national reputation for rugby. Whilst promoting the highest sporting aspirations, the school is committed to sport for all. A wide range of co-curricular activities is offered including music, drama and opportunities for Christian service. www.stbenedicts.org.uk

October 2015

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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education: School news continued Passionate about reading at Harvington Prep School “Reading opens up a world of creativity and of learning; it takes you back in time, it takes you into the future, it teaches you by example, it challenges your curiosity, satisfies your soul, touches emotions and stirs your imagination, “says Anna Evans, headteacher at Harvington Prep School. They seem to have got the balance right at the popular prep school in Ealing. “We offer a fully comprehensive ICT suite with all that primary school aged children will require to be in touch with and to appreciate what technology has to offer and we make sure our priorities rest with the old fashioned book in hand as we engender a thirst for books, a respect for the written word and an all-inclusive engagement with reading that is driven from school to home and back. It is in our discreet one-to-one reading sessions, in our shared class readers, our poetry lessons, our library lessons, our book clubs and at the heart of every lesson on the curriculum.

Reading is alive and thriving and very much the topic of conversation in our playground; it is a ’buzz’ that engulfs both our young and older children and is not exclusive to socio-economic background or language. It is an all-inclusive, allembracing phenomenon that is carefully monitored, moulded and led by the role model, the teacher.” Read Anna’s full article on childhood reading at: www.familiesonline.co.uk/locations/london-west/education-childcare/ education-and-schools/harvington-school-headteacher-emphasises-the-importance-of-reading www.harvingtonschool.com

Open Days Autumn 2015

Thursday 8 October at 10.15am Wednesday 4 November at 1.15pm Monday 16 November at 1.15pm Wednesday 25 November at 1.15pm

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

October 2015

October 2015

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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education: Open Days...

Which school next?

by Robina Cowan

* Another useful resource is www.goodschoolsguide.co.uk,

It's the open day term - the best time to explore your options in the hunt for your child's next school.

which has authoritative guides

Schools come in all shapes and

profiles and application details

ment, offer an advisory service

sizes, and league tables,

which can be tailored to your

prospectuses, Ofsted reports

* Go to www.familieswest.co.uk for up-to-date open day dates

and SATs results are enough to

and contact details for West

Having whittled down your

make most parents' heads spin.

London independent schools,

choices, ask for a prospectus

The good news is that thou-

plus a wealth of education

for all the schools you are

have the grace to let you pass?

sands of parents have survived

features

interested in, plus their

Or are they pushing each

the process before - here's how

admission criteria and an

other around, dropping food

it's done.

* Read inspection reports online at www.ofsted.gov.uk

application form: read them,

wrappers and rubbishing their

If you've lived in the area for

(for state schools) and

and visit the schools. You

teachers? Could you see your

any length of time, you'll

www.isc.co.uk (for

wouldn't buy a house without

child coming out of this

already know where your local

independent schools), but be

going to see it first, but

school?

schools are; the next step is to

wary of out-of-date reports as

surprising numbers of parents

Be wary of reading too much

find out what they are like

things can change very quickly

choose schools without step-

into league table results -

behind closed doors.

* www.findaschool.info lists schools by type, the distance

ping over the threshold first.

they are useful but provide a

Other parents are useful for a

statistical snapshot without any

from your home, a snapshot of

view of local schools. Ask

'flesh' or explanation. A school

and type 'find a school' into the

recent Ofsted gradings, and a

what they think about their

with a challenging intake may

search box for lists of local

link to the local authority

child's school’s strengths and

be making magnificent strides

schools, exam results, school

admissions team

weaknesses, taking with a

through committed teaching,

pinch of salt any extreme

yet on paper would compare

comments which might be

poorly to a school whose more

based on a specific experience

able children find exams easier.

school listings, and if you are prepared to make the invest-

child.

and a tad biased.

10

Another interesting exercise is

There's no substitute for visiting

passing the schools at the end

your shortlisted schools with

of the day. Do the pupils look

an open mind, asking lots of

confident and purposeful, are

questions and trusting your gut

they chatting in groups but still

instincts.

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

October 2015

Schoolwear from Marks and Spencer. www.marksandspencer.com

* Log onto the government website www.direct.gov.uk

to different school types,

October 2015

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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School Open Day Dates School

Address

Age

Dates

Contact details

Portland Place School

56-58 Portland Place W1B 1NJ

9-18

Tours:7 Oct 020 7307 8700 www.portland-place.co.uk and 10, 24 Nov 9-11am. admin@portland-place.co.uk Open morning: 3 Oct 10am-12 noon

Southbank International School (Westminster Campus)

63-65 Portland Place W1B 1QR

11-18

29 Oct 9.30-11am By appointment

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

Ravenstone Pre-Preparatory and Nursery School

The Long Garden Albion Street W2 2AX

2-5

18 Nov, 9 Mar, 8 Jun 9.30-11am.

020 7262 1190 www.ravenstoneschools.com admissions@ravenstoneschools.com

Connaught House School

47 Connaught Square, W2 2HL

4-8B 4-11G

By appointment

020 7262 8830 office@connaughthouseschool.co.uk www.connaughthouseschool.co.uk

Pembridge Hall

18 Pembridge Square, W2 4EH

4-11G

By appointment

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

Orchard House School

16 Newton Grove, W4 1LB

3-11

3 Oct 9.30am-12noon

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

Heathfield House School

Turnham Green Church Hall, Heathfield Gardens, W4 4JU

4-11

By appointment

0208 994 3385 www.heathfieldhouse.co.uk

Chiswick and Bedford Park Preparatory School

Priory House, Priory Avenue, W4 1TX

3-7B 3-11G

By appointment

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

Clifton Lodge School

8 Mattock Lane, Ealing, W5 5BG

3-13

3 Oct 10am-12noon

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

Durston House

12 Castlebar Road, Ealing W5 2DR

4-13B

By appointment

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

St Benedict’s School

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

Open Mornings: 020 8862 2254 www.stbenedicts.org.uk Nursery: 8 Oct, 5, 26 Nov enquiries@stbenedicts.org.uk 9.30-11.15am.

Junior School: 10 Nov 9.30-11.15am.

Saturday Open Morning for whole school: 3 Oct, 10am-12.30pm.

Senior School: 15 Oct, 13 Nov 9.15-11am.

Advanced booking necessary for all events except for the 3 Oct open day

Harvington Prep School

20 Castlebar Road Ealing, W5 2DS

3-4 co-ed 5-11G

By appointment

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

St Augustine’s Priory

Hillcrest Road, W5 2JL

3-18G

10 Oct 10-12 noon and 1-3pm.

Sixth form: 15 Oct 5pm. (registration and tea from 4pm)

020 8997 2022 admissions@staugustinespriory.org www.saintaugustinespriory.org.uk/visit

Barbara Speake Stage School

East Acton Lane, W3 7EG

3-16

By appointment

020 8743 1306 www.barbaraspeake.com enquiries@barbaraspeake.com

International School of London

139 Gunnersbury Ave, W3 8LG

3-18

By appointment

020 8992 5823 www.isllondon.org

Latymer Prep School

36 Upper Mall, Hammersmith W6 9TA

7-11

Open days throughout the Autumn term.

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

Latymer Upper School

King Street, Hammersmith W6 9LR

11-18

7 Nov. 11+ entrance only.

0845 638 5721 www.latymer-upper.org (children in Year 6). csh@latymer-upper.org Tickets required- contact the Admissions Office.

30 Sept- Sixth Form open evening

St Paul’s Girls School

Brook Green, W6 7BS

11-18G

11+ entry 7 Oct 5pm, 10 Oct 9am and 11.15am 2 Nov 5pm

Godolphin and Latymer School

Iffley Road, W6 0PG

11-18G

For 11+ entry: 13 Oct, 020 8741 1936 4.30 - 7 pm www.godolphinandlatymer.com (last tour 6pm). registrar@godolphinandlatymer.com 6th Form- 1 Oct, 4.45pm. No need to book.

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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

October 2015

School

Address

Thomas’s Kensington (Lower School-age 4-7) (Prep School-age 7-11)

39-41 Victoria Road, W8 5RJ 3-11 17-19 Cottesmore Gardens, W8 5PR

The Lloyd Williamson School

12 Telford Road, W10 5SH

6 months-14 yrs By appointment

020 8962 0345 www.lloydwilliamson.co.uk

Bassett House School

60 Bassett Road, W10 6JP

3-11

10 Oct 10am-12.30pm.

020 8969 0313 www.bassetths.org.uk

Notting Hill Preparatory School

95 Lancaster Road, W11 1QQ

4-13

By appointment

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

Norland Place School

162-166 Holland Park Avenue W11 4UH

4-8B 4-11G

By appointment

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

Avenue House School

70 The Avenue, Ealing, W13 8LS

3-11

Individual tours by appointment

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

Notting Hill and Ealing High School (GDST) (Junior)

26 St Stephens Road, W13 8HH

(Senior)

2 Cleveland Road, W13 8AX

4-18G (Junior- 4+ and 7+) parents only Booking essential.

Entry at 4+ 7+ 11+ and 16+ Admissions (Miss Smith) 020 8991 2165 8 Oct 10.15am, www.nhehs.gdst.net 4 Nov 1.15pm, 4 Nov 1.15pm enquiries@nhehs.gdst.net 16 Nov 1.15am, 25 Nov 1.15pm (Senior) parents only 5 Oct 10.45am, 12 Nov 10.45am 14 Oct 4.30pm Senior School Open Evening, Parents and girls welcome - no need to book

St James Junior School

Earsby Street, W14 8SH

4-11B 4-10G

By appointment

St James Senior Girl’s School

Earsby Street, W14 8SH

10-18G

Open Morning: 3 Oct 020 7348 1748 www.stjamesgirls.co.uk 9.30-12.15pm admissions@sjsg.org.uk Open Evening: 7 Oct 4.15-6.30pm School in Action: 4 Nov 9-10.45am Sixth Form: 30 Sept 5.15pm

Fulham Prep School

200 Greyhound Road, W14 9SD

7-13

By appointment

020 7386 2444 www.fulhamprep.co.uk prepadmin@fulhamprep.co.uk

Eaton Square School

79 Eccleston Square, SW1V 1PP

2.5-13

12 Nov, 10 Mar, 9 Jun

020 7931 9469 www.eatonsquareschool.com registrar@eatonsquareschool.com · nursery@eatonsquareschool.com

Westminster Under School

Adrian House, 27 Vincent Square Westminster, SW1P2NN

7-13B

10 Oct for 11+

020 7821 5788 www.westminsterunder.org.uk

Fulham Pre Prep School

47A Fulham High Street SW6 3JJ

4-7

19 Nov 9.30-11am Call to book

020 7371 9911 www.fulhamprep.co.uk admin@fulhamprep.co.uk

Ravenstone Preparatory School

24 Elvaston Place, SW7 5NL

4-11

12 Nov, 10 Mar, 9 Jun, 9-10.30am

020 7225 3131 www.ravenstoneschools.com registrar@ravenstoneschools.com

Thames Christian College

Wye Street, SW11 2HB

11-16

3 Oct 10am-1pm, 7 Oct 11am-1pm

020 7228 3933 www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk info@thameschristiancollege.org.uk

Lonsdale Road, Barnes, SW13 9QN 4-18

11+ Open morning:

020 8762 6321 www.harrodian.com

Advance booking essential

7 Oct, 5 Nov

admissions@harrodian.com

The Harrodian School

Age

Dates

Contact details

By appointment

020 7937 0583 (Lower School) 020 7361 6500 (Preparatory school) www.thomas-s.co.uk kensington@thomas-s.co.uk

020 7348 1793 www.stjamesjuniors.co.uk admissions@stjamesjuniors.org

Ibstock Place School

Clarence Lane, SW15 5PY

4-18

Pre-Prep and Prep School: 18 Nov 9.30am

020 8876 9991 www.ibstockplaceschool.co.uk registrar@ibstockplaceschool.co.uk

Hampton School

Hanworth Road, Hampton, Middlesex TW12 3HD

11-18B

3, 16, 26 Nov 2.30-4.30pm Visitor’s afternoon (booking required)

020 8979 9273 www.hamptonschool.org.uk admissions@hamptonschool.org.uk

Orley Farm School

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

4-13

3 Oct 10am-12pm or Wednesday morning by appointment

020 8869 7634 www.orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk registrar@orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk

We have listed schools in postcode order from W1 - W14 and then outside the ‘W’ postcodes that serve children living in West London.

There is plenty of advice on our website on what you should be looking for when you do the tour of schools. Don’t forget to log in with your postcode so you get the information that is relevant to your local area at: www.familieswest.co.uk

October 2015

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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half term workshops

ARTS PLACE HALF-TERM DRAMA CAMP (W13) 26-30 Oct 9:30am-3:30pm each day. With a show to family & friends at the end of the week!

EXPLORE LEARNING (W12, W5)

23 Oct, 2 Nov “Minion Madness”

This time we’re off to Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory,

27 Oct Free, fun and interactive workshops from 12-

30 Oct “Happy Halloween”

for a week of drama, singing, crafts and a world of

4pm in all centres for children aged 5-14. Activities

… Call Clare McKnight 020 8992 3767

include Fun with phonics for ages 5-6 (12-1pm),

fimofun@tiscali.co.uk

… Call Emily on: 07890 493 920

Number bonds for ages 6-7 (1.30-2.30pm), problem

www.funwithfimoclay.co.uk

info@theartsplace.co.uk

pure imagination.

www.theartsplace.co.uk

solving for ages 8-10 (3-4pm) and personalised sessions for age 5-14 (all day). The free personalised

PERFORM DRAMA

sessions are available for one hour at any time

26-28 Oct Three fun-packed days of drama, dance and

throughout the day. This offers families the

singing with the theme of Alice In Wonderland.

opportunity to sit down with an experienced tutor and

Together with a team of experienced theatre profession-

discuss their child’s individual needs to help them

als, the children will combine live original music, inspi-

unlock their full potential. Call to book your slot.

rational dance, quick witted improvisation and colourful

www.explorelearning.co.uk

costumes into a show-stopping performance on the final day. For ages 4-7.

… Call 020 7255 9120 enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk ISIS EDUCATION CENTRE (W2) 27 Oct Nature Explorers Wild photography. A full day of guided outdoor games and activities, using photography and recording equipment to document wildlife activities. For age 8-11, 10am-3pm.

Dance and drama courses Yourspace Saturdays for 6-10 & 11-16 years.

10 weeks, 10-12 noon, £195.

Theme: BEST OF BRITISH! Start 12 Sept - show 5 Dec. St Augustine’s Priory W5 2JL www.yourspacedrama.com

www.supporttheroyalparks.org/shop/experiences HOLLAND PARK ECOLOGY CENTRE (W8) 26-30 Oct Environmental themed activities in the centre and wooded wildlife area, including shelter building, orienteering and animal themed craft sessions. For ages 5-10, 10am-12noon and 1-3pm. www.rbkc.gov.uk/subsites/wildlife/events.aspx

FIT FOR SPORT ACTIVITY CAMPS

CHELSEA PHYSIC GARDEN (SW3)

(W3, W4, W5, UB5, SW7 )

27 Oct Fungi town – the weird and wonderful world

26-30 Oct For ages 4-12, full day and half day

of mushrooms. Mushroom printing, find out about

activity camps.

glow-in-the-dark mushrooms and make your own mini

www.fitforsport.co.uk/venues/london-kids-camp-

growing kit. 10.30am - 2.30pm, Ages 8+

trailfinders

28 Oct Lotions and potions - The history of medicine and the amazing power of plants to heal. Make your

FUN WITH FIMO CLAY CRAFT ACTIVITY

own ointments, syrups and scented bags.

SESSION (W3)

10.30am - 2.30pm, Ages 7+

Fun and creative session, fully supervised and non

29 Oct The Big Draw - Autumn Art. Create art and

messy for age 6+ from 10.15am-4.15pm.

craft inspired by the Garden. 10.30am-2.30pm. 6+ www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk

Fireworks Night Events West Londoners have a good choice of local places to make fireworks night a great evening out for all the family.

EALING CRICKET CLUB 7 Nov Gates open at 6pm and display starts at 7.30pm. Activities include rides for children, glow novelties, refreshments inc. bar and bbq.

Corfton Road, Ealing W5 2HS www.ealingcc.co.uk TRAILFINDERS SPORTS CLUB 5 Nov Gates open at 6pm and firework display starts at 7.30pm. Last year’s prices £6 for adults and £2 for children under 14.

Vallis Way, West Ealing, London W13 0DD www.tfsc.co.uk CHISWICK PARK 4 Nov Firework display starts after 6pm.

566 Chiswick High Road, London, W4 5YA www.enjoy-work.com RAVENSCOURT PARK 7 Nov Gates open at 6pm and children’s fireworks starts at 7.15pm. Main firework display starts at approximately 8pm. Tickets £6.00 in advance from Lyric Theatre and £8.00 on the gate. Under 5’s go free.

Paddenwick Road, London W6 0UA www.lbhf.gov.uk BISHOPS PARK 6 Nov Gates open at 6pm and children’s fireworks starts at 7.15pm. Main firework display starts at approximately 8pm. Tickets £6.00 in advance from the Lyric Theatre and £8.00 on the gate. Under 5s go free.

Bishop's Ave, London SW6 6EA www.lbhf.gov.uk

14

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

October 2015

what’s on DIARY DATES

FOUNDLING MUSEUM

3 Oct EALING 135 NEARLY NEW SALE A table sale where you can buy and sell items suitable for children ages 0-5 inc. clothes, toys, pushchairs, highchairs etc.10am-noon at Kingsdown Methodist Church, Kingsdown Avenue, W13.

For more information email: 135nearlynew@gmail.com 10 Oct KENSINGTON AND CHELSEA NCT NEARLY NEW SALE 10am-12noon at Westbourne Grove Church, Westbourne Grove, W11 2RW For more information email: nns.kensingtonandchelsea@nct.org.uk 11 Oct DIWALI The Hindu festival of Lights starts the firework celebrations in many local areas. Trafalgar Square also hosts a celebration with music, dance and many food stalls.

23-25 Oct THE BABY SHOW LONDON OLYMPIA is back, offering visitors a one stop shop of parenting essentials and expert advice while providing an enjoyable day out. For further information or to book tickets, go to: www.thebabyshow.co.uk/olympia 31 Oct-1 Nov THE FAMILY TRAVEL SHOW Dedicated to family adventures and full of specialist operators and family holiday providers. Taking place at Olympia, W14. www.familytravelshow.com 7 Nov NCT EALING NEARLY NEW SALE 12.30-2pm at Kingsdown Methodist Church, Kingsdown Avenue, W13 9PR. www.nct.org.uk/branches/ealing

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM EC2R 8AH www.bankofengland.co.uk The Museum tells the story of the Bank of England from its foundation in 1694 to its role today as the UK’s central bank. Examine intricately-designed banknotes, feel the weight of a genuine gold bar and see the pikes and muskets that were once used to defend the Bank.

26-30 Oct THE BIG DRAW - JOIN THE FLEET Come aboard the life-size boat moored in the Museum and take the helm of the interactive boat game to discover what the Bank does to keep the economy on a steady course. You can then design your own boat and enter the competition with prizes to be won. The winning designs will be displayed on the Bank’s website.

BRITISH MUSEUM WC1B 3DG www.britishmuseum.org DIGITAL WORKSHOPS Takes place at weekends and school holidays on a variety of themes. Free, for ages 7+ (unless stated). Most workshops take place at 11am and sometimes again at 2pm.

26-30 Oct THE WORLD OF THE CELTS A week of family activities all about the Celts. 11am-4pm.

31 Oct, 1 Nov DAY OF THE DEAD FAMILY FESTIVAL A vibrant Mexican festival where families gather to remember their dead. Art, storytelling, films, music, dance and digital workshops to try. 11am-4pm.

October 2015

WC1N 1AZ www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk 22 Oct BACH TO BABY A classical concert for babies created by mum and pianist, Miaomiao Yu. 10-11am.

27 Oct THE BIG DRAW: EVERY DRAWING TELLS EVERY DRAWING TELLS A STORY Look through a viewfinder to another world and visualise what’s hidden in the art of the past. Bring the paintings and past alive through collaborative and experimental drawing with artist Daniel Wallis. 10.30am and 2pm. Drop-in, for ages 5+ 30 Oct VICTORIAN STEREOSCOPES Led by artist Isobel Manning, explore the use of Victorian stereoscopes.

Photograph your own stereographic images inspired by the exhibition The Fallen Woman and create a stereoscope to view your images in 3D. 10.30am, 1pm, 3pm. Drop-in, for age 7+ IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM www.iwm.org.uk SE1 6HZ EXHIBITIONS: HOLOCAUST Film, photographs and a large number of rare artefacts document the history of the Nazi persecution of the Jews and other groups before and during the Second World War. For ages 14+ A FAMILY IN WARTIME Explores the lives of William and Alice Allpress and their ten children and what life in London was like during the war.

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

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

Every Sun in Oct OBJECT CONVERSATIONS New immersive object handling sessions where families can explore objects from the collections- feel the weight of a shrapnel piece from the First World War and come to grips with real objects. Drop-in, free, for all ages.

11am - 12.30pm and 2 - 4pm.

4, 11, 18 Oct CREATIVE RESPONSE Art activities based on themes featured in atrium and galleries. Drop-in, free, for all ages. 11am - 12.30pm and 2 - 4pm.

24 Oct-1 Nov IN FOCUS: PHOTOGRAPHY WEEK Original objects will be on display from the First and Second World War, including photographic postcards and cameras. Have a go at using a stereoscopic viewer - the original 3D. 11am-12.30pm, 2-4pm NATIONAL GALLERY WC2N 5DN www.nationalgallery.org.uk Every Sun FAMILY SUNDAYS Activities designed for families to enjoy and learn together, 11am and 3pm.

MAGIC CARPET STORYTELLING For children aged 2-5.

Sundays 10.30-11am and 11.30am-12pm. Fly away on the magic carpet, coming to land in front of a different painting each day.

DRAWING SUNDAY Explore gallery paintings as inspiration for your art. For ages 5-11.

Sundays 11am and 2pm. Drop-in.

11 Oct CHANGING PERSPECTIVES Discover how to draw a perspective landscape using the shapes and lines in Hobbema’s famous ‘Avenue of Middelharnis’.

STUDIO SUNDAYS are hands-on workshops that start in the Gallery, followed by a studio session (11am and 2pm).

4 Oct FACE TO FACE Explore the play between the 2D and 3D faces in Titian’s ‘Dalmation Woman’ and enjoy

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

“DINO SNORES” AT THE NATIONAL HISTORY MUSEUM

creating your own multi-dimensional portrait.

18 Oct DREAM DESIGNS Be inspired by Raphael’s dreaming knight and design your own pillowcase to inspire your dreams.

4 Oct AUTUMNAL SHADES Discover a famous racehorse in the National gallery, a very modern horse in Trafalgar Square and a mystery third horse. Enjoy investigating what lies beneath the surface and create your own horse. 11am-1pm and 2-4pm, ages 5-11.

7 Oct WELCOME WEDNESDAYS Early years activities and bring paintings to life through interactive music, storytelling, art and messy play activities. Every Wednesday, 10.30 and 11.30am for walkers under age five, 1pm for sitting babies to walkers.

HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS: 25 Oct THE BIG DRAW HEADS, SHOULDERS, KNEES AND TOES A special themed day of drawing to celebrate the national Big Draw Campaign. 11am-1pm and 2-4pm.

Play a special game of ‘Picture Consequences’, creating collaborative drawings and stories with friends and family.

26-29 Oct FANCY DRESS FOLLY Look out for spectacular costumes in paintings and then seek out and draw splendorous clothes, and make a sliding viewing frame to mix and match your outfits. For all ages, 11am-1pm and 2-4pm, drop-in.

26 Oct MESSY MONDAYS: EXPLORING THE STUDIO Drop-in session for children under 5 years. Become a mini artist by exploring materials and mark making in a tactile environment inspired by a painting. 10.30am-1pm and 1.30-3pm.

27 Oct TALKING TUESDAYS - INVESTIGATING PAINTINGS Bringing a painting to life through singing, talking and playing. For under 5s. 10.30am-1pm and 1.30-3pm.

28, 29 and 30 Oct ARTIST'S APPRENTICE WORKSHOP: THE NEW PRESS GANG Capture a self-portrait using the drypoint technique and create your own portraits using a printing press. 11am-1pm and 2-4pm.

Advanced booking essential.

NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY WC2H 0HE www.npg.org.uk 18 Oct DROP-IN FAMILY SESSION: THE BIG DRAWEVERY DRAWING TELLS A STORY Join picture book illustrator Marta Altés for an afternoon exploring drawing in the Gallery. No ticket required. 1pm for age 3+ and 3pm for age 7+ 26 Oct FAMILY ART WORKSHOP: FAMILY FIGURES Trace, stuff, fold, wrap and transform a life sized 2d drawing into a 3d sculpture inspired by Giacometti: Pure Presence. For age 5+ at 11.30am and 2.30pm.

(The 2.30pm session will be BSL interpreted.)

26-30 Oct DROP-IN FAMILY SESSION A creative session for age 3+ from 1-4pm.

27, 28, 29 Oct FAMILY ART WORKSHOP Sculpture workshops inspired by Giacometti: Pure Presence.

11.30am and 2.30pm for ages 5+

Days Out listings continue on page 16

15

what’s on continued NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk Every weekend INVESTIGATE FOR FAMILIES Get a feel for how scientists work by having a go yourself.

Come and explore hundreds of real nature specimens that form the evidence Museum scientists use in their daily work. Drop-in, 11am-5pm.

3, 11, 27, 29, 31 Oct DINO SCENE INVESTIGATION Uncover a replica dinosaur skull.

4, 28 Oct, 1 Nov HANDS ON NATURE- DINOSAURS Handle real fossil specimens and learn how to identify them. For ages 7+ 10, 28 Oct ANIMAL VISION A show which features live animals, reveals a world only visible to certain reptiles and invertebrates. See how adaptations allow them to escape predators and locate prey. 10.30am for age 7+ 11 Oct MARY ANNING Meet Mary Anning, a pioneering fossil hunter from 19th century. 11.30am and 2pm.

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

24 Oct CHARLES DARWIN Meet Charles Darwin, he will share his collection of beetles and tell you his famous theory of evolution.

25, 26, 30 Oct WOLF TALES A puppet storytelling show about animal and human nature, revealing amazing insights into the natural world. 12 and 1.30pm, for under 7s.

SCIENCE MUSEUM SW7 2DD www.sciencemuseum.org.uk 10 Oct SCIENCE NIGHT A special overnight event for 7-13 year olds featuring exciting hands-on workshops, science shows, a sleepover at the Science Museum among the amazing exhibits, followed by a tasty breakfast and a film in the IMAX Cinema.

VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk Every Sat POP UP PERFORMANCES Storytelling, interactive plays and dance. For all ages at 11am, 1 and 3pm. Free, drop in Every Sun DROP-IN DESIGN Pick up a design challenge, hunt for ideas in the galleries, then create your

own. 10.30am-5pm, for age 5+ 24 Oct-1 Nov POP UP PERFORMANCES 11am, 1 and 5pm. Interactive performance in which families can learn traditional Indian dance with Devika Dance Theatre or hear Indian stories told by Peter Chand or Seema Anand.

Free, drop-in, for all ages.

26-30 Oct INDIA FESTIVAL FOR FAMILIES Join in with special Diwali celebrations with a variety of dance, music, storytelling, digital and art activities for all the family.

Free, drop-in.

26-30 Oct MAKE-IT: PRINT Create textiles using woodblock prints, inspired by the exhibition, The Fabric of India. £7.50 per child. Advance booking essential.

Suitable for ages 5-12. 10.30am and 2.30pm.

FREE ART FUN-BACK-PACKS, ACTIVITY CART AND ANIMAL BAGS Families can pick up an activity BackPack, get creative at Drop-in-Design or go on a gallery adventure trail. Free, drop-in. Suitable for children aged 4 to 11.

ACTIVITY CART: Fantastic hands-on art fun for children to create collages and pictures to take home.

AGENT ANIMAL BAG: A sensory activity bag that has been developed especially for under 5s. Each bag contains an audio map and fabric cubes.

WALLACE COLLECTION W1U 3BN www.wallacecollection.org 4 Oct THE LITTLE DRAW Free, drop in workshop for all ages and abilities with artist Millie Nice using drawing as a tool to learn more about the objects and paintings in the Wallace Collection.1.30-4.30pm.

27 Oct STILL LIFE: DELICIOUS PAINTING Look at some of the hidden meanings found in still life paintings with artist Alison Kusner. Sketch your favourite before experimenting with a real still life, learning different ways to achieve different textures and create a vibrant watercolour painting incorporating your sketches. For ages 912, 10.30am-4.30pm.

Booking essential on 020 7563 9527 or booking@wallacecollection.org 30 Oct MONSTER MASKS Who can make the scariest mask to frighten friends at Halloween? Join artist Agnieszka Arabska to hunt out strange creatures, dragons and monsters from the Wallace Collection’s paintings, armour, vases, clocks and sculptures. Design your own horrifying mask and take part in a spooky parade along

the galleries. 10.30am and 2pm, for ages 5+ Free, drop-in. No need to book.

24 Oct READY, STEADY, DRAW! THE BIG DRAW OFF Inspired by the collection and the Big Draw theme of Every Drawing Tells a Story, your team will go head-to head on drawing challenges set by the museum.

All abilities and ages are welcome to join in the fun!

Free, drop-in. No need to book. 11am - 1pm and 2.30 4.30pm.

DAYS OUT BUCKINGHAM PALACE SW1A 1AA www.royalcollection.org.uk 29-30 Oct FAMILY ACTIVITIES: THE BIG DRAW Be inspired by the magnificent displays and atmosphere of the Royal Mews and document it. Drop-in activity with all materials provided.

CUTTY SARK SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark Every weekend CUTTY SARK CHARACTERS Come aboard to hear Cutty Sark’s incredible stories brought to life by characters from the ship’s past. Meet Captain Woodget, the ship’s most daring master; Jock Willis, the man who built Cutty Sark; Nannie, the ship’s figurehead; or the ship’s cook, James Robson, who all have an extraordinary story to tell. Suitable for ages 3+ 7, 14, 21 Oct TODDLER TIME Bring your little sailors along for songs, stories and playtime on board. 2-4pm for ages 4 and under.

3, 4 Oct FAMILY FUN WEEKEND: TEA TREASURE CHESTS Tea was once a treasured possession, kept under lock and key. Design and make your own tea chest and have a go at making a tea bag to store safely inside. All ages, 11.30am and 2pm.

HALF TERM ACTIVITIES: 26, 27 Oct EVERY CARGO TELLS A STORY: THE BIG DRAW Be inspired by different cargo carried aboard to help us create a collaborative artwork. All ages, 11.30am and 2pm.

28, 29 Oct DAMRU DRUMS Make and decorate a traditional drum inspired by the ship’s voyages to India and the cargoes she collected there. All ages, 11.30am and 2pm.

30 Oct GHOST SHIPS AND SPOOKY SHADOWS Create a spooky shadow puppet show with ghost-ships, sea monsters and your own Halloween puppet to take home and play with. All ages, 11.30am and 2pm.

From Baby to Ballerina

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

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

16

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

October 2015

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

4 Oct THE BIG DRAW Experiment with loads of different drawing materials and giant pencils made from recycled materials.

2-4pm.

11 Oct APPLE DAY CELEBRATION Apple displays, tastings, food and drink stalls, demonstrations, children’s activities, baking competition and much more. Free, 11am-3pm.

24 Oct YOUNG ARCHAEOLOGISTS’ CLUB Practical hands on sessions with real archaeologists learning about ancient civilisations. For 8-16 year olds. 10.30am12.15pm.

28 Oct FULHAM PALACE FUN DAY Crafts, storytelling and dressing up for all the family. 10am-12pm and 1-3pm, free.

30 Oct HALLOWE’EN CRAFTS AND PUMPKIN PARADE Crafts and face painting in Bishop's Park. Bring a precarved pumpkin and any musical instruments or noisy objects so you can make some noise to scare away the ghouls on a pumpkin parade around the Park at 4pm.

Starts at 2.30pm.

HMS BELFAST SE1 2JH www.iwm.org.uk ONGOING: GUN TURRET EXPERIENCE A chance to see what fighting at sea would have really been like. Lights, audio, projections and movement will recreate the experience, highlighting the hectic and cramped conditions that would have seen twentysix men in this confined space at any one time.

INTERACTIVE OPERATIONS ROOM The nerve centre and brain of the entire ship which now has exciting interactives.

FREE FAMILY DROP-IN ACTIVITIES 24 Oct-1 Nov DAZZLE CAMOUFLAGE How do you hide a ship at sea? Learn how dazzle camouflage was used to keep HMS Belfast from being discovered by other ships and take part in an animation workshop to create your very own camouflage.

11am and 2pm.

HOLLAND PARK ECOLOGY CENTRE W8 6LU www.rbkc.gov.uk/ecologyevents 3 Oct POND SURVEY: WILDLIFE AREA OPEN DAY Discover how healthy the pond is through pond dipping. Drop in, 12-4pm, all ages.

17 Oct APPLE PRESSING: ECOLOGY CENTRE OPEN DAY A chance to learn about the importance and diversity of this special fruit, plus apple pressing and apple tasting plus games and craft for the whole family to enjoy.12-4pm.

26-30 Oct HALF TERM CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES A fun filled environmental themed programme of outdoor and creative activities including sessions on

October 2015

dragonflies, shelter building, spiders, plants, animal homes and trees.10am-12 noon and 2-4pm for ages 5-10 and some sessions from 11am-3pm for ages 8-12.

Booking and pre-payment essential.

30 Oct CHILDREN’S NIGHT SAFARI A fun-filled evening to search for the park’s nocturnal inhabitants and explore the woods at night. For ages 5-10.

KENSINGTON PALACE W8 4PX www.hrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalace Weds and Sats TINY EXPLORERS Discover fascinating stories about Kensington Palace in these multi-sensory workshops. Music, movement, messy play and more for 0-4yrs.

24-31 Oct FASHION FIT FOR A QUEEN For budding young fashion designers and dressmakers-Try your hand at making regal fashion in the free hands-on drop-in activities.

24 Oct MINI MAKERS Dress up like a Queen and peer inside the royal wardrobe to see what you will discover about royal fashion in these free one hour hands-on creative play and immersive story telling workshops, inspired by the Fashion Rules exhibition. Suitable for 4-7 year olds. 12, 1.30 and 3pm.

OSTERLEY PARK AND HOUSE TW7 4RB www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley-park 10, 11 Oct FAMILIES FIRST THE CRAFTS THAT MADE OSTERLEY A weekend of family based activities and crafts.

24, 25 Oct HALLOWEEN PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Family crafts, games, trails and scary storytelling alongside a pumpkin carving activity. How scary will your pumpkin be?

27 Oct LITTLE SEEDLINGS GARDENING CLUB Drop-in, hands on gardening sessions in the kitchen garden, planting, weeding and watering (or just digging!). 12-4pm.

CUTTY SARK HALLOWEEN EVENTS

28 Oct 50 THINGS TO DO BEFORE YOU'RE 113/4: HOLD A SCARY BEAST A Halloween themed 50 things activity as Osterley play host to a scary beast.

29 Oct CRAFT CART: HALLOWEEN CRAFTS Drop-in creative craft activities for all ages. 12-4pm.

KEW GARDENS TW9 3AB www.kew.org 3, 4, 10, 11 Oct A TASTE OF ADVENTURE Discover how and why we taste what we do and the role each of the five senses play in our perception of flavour? Take the ‘Supertaster’ test and discover the science behind kitchen favourites such as chilli, ginger, mustard and black pepper.

24 Oct-1 Nov PIRATE PEPPERBEARD AND THE GREAT SPICE HEIST Set sail on a quest to foil the plot of Pirate Pepperbeard who has a plan to plunder the spectacularly valuable spices at Kew. Follow the trail on the secret map to solve the puzzles around the Gardens. Collect your map, solve the puzzles and finish and attend the final performance. 12-3.45pm.

ODDS FARM PARK HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk A FABULOUS DAY OUT AT THE FARM Meet the farmers and get close to the animals in the hands-on area and in the large undercover animal barns. There is also a huge outdoor play area with an Adventure Maze, Go-Karts, Log Play Areas, Crazy Golf and plenty of farm animals to meet. This summer you can also win a medal at sheep racing, board tractor and trailer rides and play in the sand and water area.

Weekends 3-18 Oct, 24 Oct-1 Nov PUMPKIN CARVING AND HALLOWEEN FUN Carve a Pumpkin, follow the Halloween Trail to earn a treat and brave the Boo Barn. Plus join in with the Madness & Mayhem of the Crazy Entertainers.

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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what’s on CONTINUED FAMILY THEATRE BECK THEATRE UB3 2UE www.becktheatre.org.uk 15 Oct COPPELIA A lively production, infused with old world charm, this captivating story of an eccentric toymaker and his beloved doll has colourful costumes, lively characters and beautiful music from Delibes. For all the family.

RICHMOND THEATRE TW9 1QJ www.atgtickets.com/Richmond 26 Oct SING-A-LONG-A FROZEN A full screening of Disney’s Frozen with lyrics on screen to help you sing along. Introduced by a live host who will show you how to use your free prop bag, warm up your singing voices and teach you some dance moves with the help of the Singalonga Princesses. Age recommendation 5+ THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL

BUSH THEATRE W12 8LJ www.bushtheatre.co.uk 28-30 Oct STORYSTOCK A festival of storytelling for children aged 3-11 and their families, with new Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell. With live literature shows and talks from Judith Kerr, Philip Reeve, Tamara McFarlane and more, plus workshops including creative coding, creative writing, animation and comic drawing, poetry and letterwriting.

CAMBRIDGE THEATRE WC2H 9HU www.matildathemusical.com Booking until Dec 15 MATILDA THE MUSICAL The Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Roald Dahl’s magical story about a girl with extraordinary powers.

SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com 31 Oct FUN DMC Whether the proud parent of a Lil Wayne, a Missy Elliot or a whole crew of Beastie Boys or Wee Papa Girls Rappers, this is the jam for you and yours.

This is a real Hip-Hop party designed with both parents and children in mind so grab your ‘kid and play.’

ROYAL OPERA HOUSE WC2E 9DD www.roh.org.uk 25 Oct FAMILY SUNDAYS A regular event for families to explore the Royal Opera House, its artists and the world of opera and ballet. Packed full of creative and practical activities for all the family including informal performances from Royal Ballet dancers, plus interactive singing and dance activities. 12-4pm. £5 adults, £3 children.

LYRIC HAMMERSMITH W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk 3 Oct RUBY FLEW TOO! Follow one duckling’s journey as she finds her feet. Stunning scenery, original music, hand-made puppets and delightful storytelling for ages 2-7.

10 Oct ARNOLD’S BIG ADVENTURE Arnold the acorn is about to drop from his tree and begin his amazing adventure in search of somewhere to put down his roots.

Taking place in a special bell tent, this show features beautiful shadow puppetry, original music to sing along to and plenty of thrilling surprises along the way. For ages 3-10 17 Oct THE DRAGON’S TALE An original take on George and the Dragon, told in flashback by the Dragon himself accompanied by a very special Damsel in Distress on a hurdy-gurdy. For ages 4-8 24 Oct OLIVE & THE DREAM TRAIN Olive’s always daydreaming. Then one day, on her way to school, a very odd train with no driver chugs into the station. So Olive boldly steps aboard and it can take her absolutely anywhere. For ages 5-11 27 Oct - 31 Oct GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS A mysterious visitor takes Baby Bear on a breathtaking adventure that turns his house and his world upside down. Ingenious puppetry, music and mischievous moments for ages 2+ PUPPET THEATRE BARGE W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com 24-30 Oct THE THREE PIGS AND THE WOLF PLUS CAPTAIN GRIMEY A lively show that breathes new life into these well-known characters - each of the pigs has an air of mischief and naivety, while the wicked wolf has just a hint of a wry smile. Captain Grimey is the dirtiest, most miserable, one-legged sea captain in the world. It is not until the golden Dolphin befriends him, and helps him to see the error of his ways, that he becomes Captain Shiney and finds true happiness, in this humorous morality tale. For ages 3-8

18

OLIVE & THE DREAM TRAIN LYRIC HAMMERSMITH

some simple items and they will help you transform into something truly terrible in time for your trick or treating while playing some spine tingling drama games and sending you on your way with a Halloween treat for the road. For under 18’s.

CONCERTS AND MUSIC WORKSHOPS BARBICAN EC2Y 8DS www.barbican.org.uk 17 Oct WHEN THE MOON RISES… YOU LEARN TO FLY! Gewandhausorchester Leipzig Family Concert. Follow the fantastical journey of a child’s dream once the sun has set and the moon has risen, created with the music of Richard Strauss.

SOUTHBANK CENTRE SE1 8PX www.southbankcentre.co.uk 2, 9, 16, 23 Oct RUG RHYMES A short session of nursery rhymes, poems and rhyming stories, followed by the opportunity to look at and borrow books.

For ages 0-5 29 Oct NOISY NOTES Sue Perkins conducts and presents music for children in a spectacular show.

Featuring dancers, characters from Shrek, young West End stars and Eurovision's Sarbel from Greece. Plus music from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker accompanied by animation and songs from Annie and Aladdin, as well as music from Frozen, The Simpsons, Spongebob Squarepants and Batman.

THEATRE ROYAL DRURY LANE WC2B 5JF www.reallyuseful.com/theatres/theatre-royal-drury-lane Ongoing CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY Roald Dahl's deliciously dark tale of young Charlie Bucket and the mysterious confectioner Willy Wonka in a brand new musical directed by Sam Mendes.

2.30pm and 7.30pm.

UNICORN THEATRE SE1 2HZ www.unicorntheatre.com 16, 17 Oct RAW A dance piece about playing, dreaming and pretending. It’s about being a child, which can be difficult. It’s about growing up in a world that’s too huge and chaotic to fully comprehend. And it’s about the grown-ups who look after us who are distant and seem unfathomable. For ages 10+ 29 Oct-1 Nov A MANO The story of a very small but very special hero with a great desire to escape from his pottery shop window and those who live there with him.

Told with beautifully crafted clay characters, this is a touching and life-affirming story about love, small failures, a potter’s wheel and four hands at play.

29-31 Oct THE CHRONICLES OF HALLOWEEN-THE ZOMBIE, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE Spooky shenanigans and Halloween makeovers - bring

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

CADOGAN HALL SW1X 9DQ www.cadoganhall.com 17 Oct SOUTHBANK SINFONIA FAMILY CONCERT Have you ever wondered what happens when an orchestra tries to play without a conductor? They will be doing exactly that, with Prokofiev’s devilishly difficulty Classical symphony. Alongside 33 electrifying young players, there will be dramatic lighting effects and specially created videos. For ages 5-11 THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL SW7 2AP www.royalalberthall.com 28 Oct RATATOUILLE IN CONCERT A high definition screening with live orchestral accompaniment- the perfect opportunity to introduce children to the power of a live orchestra for the first time.

MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN IN NOTTING HILL W11 2NN www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk 27 Oct LITTLE BIRDSONG ORCHESTRA A classical concert for babies. Outstanding musicians perform a repertoire of traditional and contemporary music at St John’s Church in Notting Hill for adults and babies/ toddlers under 30 months. 10.30am BACH TO BABY www.bachtobaby.com/londonnorth All concerts at 10.30am.

21 Oct in Kensington (Christ Church, Victoria Road, Kensington, W8) 27 Oct in Notting Hill (St. John's Church, Lansdowne Crescent, London W11) 30 Oct in Chiswick (St. Michael and All Angels, Bath Road, W4) 17 Oct in Covent Garden (St. Paul’s Covent Garden, Bedford Street, London WC2) 16 Oct in Hammersmith (St. Andrew’s Chuch, Greyhound Rd, W14)

October 2015

Classifieds · PARTIES

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020 930 4707

To advertise here please email us at: adverts@familieswest.co.uk

Classifieds · TUITION Private tuition · Lessons for kids Group classes for adults

From complete beginners to advanced. From age 9.

Lessons in Notting Hill with saxophonist & composer Martino Scovacricchi.

020 3612 9736 07929 635 720

To advertise in Families West magazine or online, please email us at: adverts@familieswest.co.uk or phone us on: 020 930 4707

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October 2015

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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