Families West London September 2013

ISSUE 88: September 2013 www.familieswest.co.uk

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Picture courtesy of Oilily www.oililyshop.com/en

I Spy... the best kids clubs and classes in West London

Families West • PO Box 32231 • London W5 1JR • Tel: 020 8930 4707 • Fax: 0208 930 7704 • E-mail: familieswest@yahoo.co.uk

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

September 2013

News & Views Free 5 week trial with Reading Eggs

Cover credit: Oilily Autumn/Winter 2013 www.oililyshop.com/en

In this issue Time for the new school year…. and getting back into some firm routines after the summer hols. I’m itching to put some structure back after months of waking up very late and making last minute plans. One of the big decisions to make is planning your child’s extra-curricular activities.

Browse through our clubs and classes feature this issue and you will literally find hundreds of classes available in West London. It’s a chance to really hone those skills your child shows a flair for or try something that is completely new. It’s a great opportunity for your child to mix with children from a wider community and also to be confident with new adults. Call up the teacher beforehand and find out as much as you can.

The majority of the classes allow free trial lessons so go along with your child and try it out. It may be the beginning of a passion that lasts his or her lifetime!

See you again in October for the Schools issue.

Contents News & Views 3-5 Education 6-13 The best possible start at a new school 6 Which Secondary school is right for my child? 7 School Open Dates 2013 12-13 Clubs and Classes 14-20 Extra-curricular activities 14 Clubs and Classes listings for West London 16-20 Nursery Schools 21 What's On in West London 22-26 Classifieds 27

Reading Eggs is the online reading programme for children aged 3-13 using a combination of interactive reading and writing activities. Research has shown that 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, and developed by experts in education, using a core reading curriculum of phonics and sight words supporting what children learn at school. It gives children the skills and strategies essential for sustained reading success through interactive games, rewards and songs. The programme supplies one-to-one lessons matched to your child’s ability and gives you detailed assessment reports which show progress. Over two million children worldwide are now using the programme!

Until 30th 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. This event will give your child 5 weeks free access* to Reading Eggs.

Simply register your child at www.readingeggs.co.uk/learn (*Free trial only available for new customers who register at www.readingeggs.co.uk/learn)

New Children’s Laureate Malorie Blackman, the bestselling author of the award-winning Noughts & Crosses teen series, has been crowned the Waterstones Children’s Laureate for 2013–2015. As part of her role she will call on teachers and parents to spend at least ten minutes per day sharing a book with their pupils and children in an impassioned bid to get more children reading more, as well as working to make reading ‘irresistible’ for teenagers. ‘I am honoured to have been chosen as the eighth Children's Laureate,’ said Malorie Blackman. ‘Stories have inspired me and taught me to aspire. I hope to instill in every child I meet my love and enthusiasm for reading and stories.’

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

“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

www.FamiliesWest.co.uk Follow us on Twitter @FamiliesWest Like us on Facebook Families West Magazine Families West is designed by Natalie Schmidt email: natalie@matobodesign.com and printed by Ridgeway Press, 12 Campbell Court, Bramley, Tadley, Hampshire RG26 5EG. Tel: 01252 885837.

Copyright Families West Magazine 2013.

Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s risk and while every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. Families West is part of the Families group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under license. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers nor the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

September 2013

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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News & Views Club Petit Pierrot increase number of parent and toddler classes in Notting Hill If you contact them, please mention that you saw these companies mentioned in Families West magazine.

There are lots more things to do in the 'What's On' section of our website. www.familieswest.co.uk To advertise in future issues of Families West magazine please email adverts@ familieswest.co.uk or phone 020 8930 4707

Club Petit Pierrot now have four parent and toddler groups in Notting Hill, where parents and children can have fun learning French together. There is also an after-school class for 4 to 6 year olds. The lessons are totally in French with many varied activities - Songs, dances, rhymes, language games, language exercises, arts & crafts, educational toys, role-play, puppets and lots of fun ! They keep their groups small and use native french teachers who are all CRB checked.

They are offering a free trial lesson to children who are new to the Club. Call 020 7385 5565 or email admincpp@btconnect.com www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk

RECRUITING NOW for MUMS & Dad’s!

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H Gold Star quality training.

To find out how you can really “be there” for your children at every drop off, pick up, sports day, illness day, holiday – without being accountable to a boss or to book time off or explain your absence ever again, then please leave your contact details in a message on 01252 75 8886.

Be assured, we will return your call.

Party Plus is a great one stop shop to prepare for a children’s party. With a vast array of stock in the shop, more in the basement and two warehouses it is unlikely that they will be unable to meet your needs and can have stock to you within 24 hours.

They cover over 100 party themes including Peppa Pig, In the Night Garden and Skylanders as well as the much sought over One Direction! to name but a few.

One visit to the shop will have you set for party day, as you will be provided with everything from invitations and thank yous, to balloons, party bags, treats to fill the bags with (or pre-filled bags if you are pushed for time) and activities. Your theme can run throughout your shopping list. Finally, don’t forget about Party Plus when you are preparing for other events as they have stock for everything from a baby shower to a funeral. They hold seasonal stock all year round and cover everything from Christmas to Chinese New Year and St Patrick’s Day. If you can’t make it to the shop, then it is easy to order online from them. www.partyplus.co.uk Party Plus is at 4 Acton Lane, Chiswick W4 5NB. They are conveniently located just by Chiswick Park Tube station and opposite Sainsburys supermarket. 020 8994 1674

XBand Studio is a real-life 'School of Rock, Pop and More' for 8–18 year olds. If your child is a budding musician/singer and enjoys playing keyboards, guitar, bass guitar or drums, then Xband Studio's Band Club is a great way to learn the fun way from professional singers and musicians… with a band! With different levels of riffs/chords/ music, even beginners can join in and then progress to the next level to suit their ability. The aim is to get children to enjoy themselves so that they want to learn.

“In our experience, if children feel part of a band, practising together is part of the fun and their confidence blossoms.”

For a free no-obligation trial session email them on office@xbandstudio or call 07887 508040.

Weekly sessions are held at St Benedict's School, Ealing, W5. www.xbandstudio.com

Say that you saw it mentioned in Families West Magazine

Earn with ARK at Home

NEW - ARK Skincare – natural and effective products Help spread the word, meet new people and love what you do. Earn extra money part-time or build a career. No experience needed.

Training & support at every step.

Love to learn more? Call Vivienne 07984 644439 Email: vivienne@great-skincare.com www.great-skincare.com

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

September 2013

News & Views Win a Kiddikicks Birthday Party up to the value of £300 Kiddikicks Birthday Parties are the active party alternative to clowns and magicians.

Their definition of fun is high energy, healthy and epic! Using experienced sports coaches they offer football (and other sports) parties for ages 2-10.

For your chance to win a Kiddikicks Birthday Party (which includes a super trophy, quality medals for all, football themed table settings and a very cool personalized helium balloon for the birthday child) go to http://9nl.me/Kiddikicks/ and enter online.

The Kitchen Gift Co. Earn with ARK Skincare Are you looking for a new opportunity to earn? Take a look at ARK at Home.

ARK at Home is a new concept bringing its skincare products direct to you at home. It is a revolutionary way of treating your skin through every life stage by using effective, natural skincare products that are suited to your age.

Working with ARK allows you to choose a work schedule to fit around your life. You can decide whether to work part-time or full time. You don’t need any prior qualifications or experience. Low start-up costs mean you can embark on your business straight away. ARK will give you all the training and support you need to develop your own business successfully. If you are interested in taking it further there are opportunities to develop a business with longer-term good financial rewards through becoming a team leader, and again full support is given.

If you feel you’d like to know more about this amazing opportunity then visit www.great-skincare.com and then either email Vivienne for an information pack or call her for a chat. Alternatively treat yourself to a pampered night in with a free facial, maybe with friends. You will love the range.

Telephone: 07984 644439 E-mail: vivienne@great-skincare.com Website: www.great-skincare.com

September 2013

New nanny and babysitting agency in Ealing Broadway Urban Nannies specialise in placing live-in, live-out, part-time, temporary, shared nannies and mother's helps as well as babysitters for private homes. They provide a personal and professional service tailored specifically to your individual requirements and are dedicated to only providing candidates with the skills and experience to offer the highest level of care to your children. They also offer a child nutrition consultancy service getting fussy eaters back on track to eating a healthy diet which is critical to the overall development and wellbeing of children, enabling them to reach their potential.

URBAN NANNIES INTRODUCTORY OFFER: 25% off all placement fees for a limited time only. Visit their website at www.urbannannies.co.uk and register today.

The kids can munch their lunch in style if you send them back to school with these fabulously fun Personalised Lunch Bags and Personalised Drinks Bottles from The Kitchen Gift Co. The colourful lunch bags are the perfect size for scrummy school lunches or impromptu picnics. With an adjustable shoulder strap,insulated wipeable lining and a choice of “Groovy Chick” or “Football Crazy” design these delightful school lunch bags can be personalised with upto 12 characters. Complete the set with the co-ordinating Personalised Drinks Bottles for truly unique personalised gifts for kids.

To see more exciting Personalised Gifts for the whole family visit the Kitchen Gift Co website at www.thekitchengiftco.com

Reader offer for Perform Drama Perform Drama is opening up new classes at Kensington United Reformed Church, Allen Street, London, W8 6BL for children aged 4-5 and 5-6 years on Wednesday 18 September. Readers of Families West magazine will be able to have a free trial session followed by 10% off the fees by quoting code FAMS231013. Find out more on by calling 0845 400 1285 enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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Education The best possible start at a new school

after lunch, until at 3.30pm they’d all stream out again, and head back home with their mummies and the occasional daddy.

I’m sure I talked to Rosie about what it would be like in reception class, and I’m sure I taught her to open her lunchbox and get her own shoes on and off and all the other things you’re advised to do before your child’s first day at school; but the truth is that nothing prepared her for school as much as those weeks of simply living next door to it. The experience normalised what was going to be a huge change in her life: it showed her, better than any words from me could, that school was where children went when they were old enough. Watching those happy-looking kids skipping past our door, hearing them calling to their friends and generally picking up a sense that school was fun and exciting, was the best possible way of introducing her to her new life.

Picture credit:© kolett - Fotolia.com

In time my three younger daughters followed their big sister to that same school, and they – like Rosie – all took it in their stride. They, of course, were well-used to the primary by then: unlike Rosie, they would be there every morning and every afternoon, dropping off or collecting a big sister or sisters.

They would pick up on the excitement and happiness of school by osmosis, seeing their sisters and their friends as they bounced up alongside their buggy – and they’d be drinking it all in.

How do you prepare your child for his or first day at a new school? It’s all about finding the fun, says Joanna Moorhead

T

he summer before my eldest daughter started at primary school, a rather wonderful thing happened.

We were having work done on our house, and by chance a friend mentioned that a friend of hers was looking for a housesitter. It suited us perfectly to move out of our home for a few months, to escape the builders’ dust, so we did just that. And our temporary home, as it happened, was next door to the primary school at which Rosie would start in September.

We moved in May, so from then until the end of July she and I would watch, each morning, as the children walked and ran and scootered past our door, in their grey and purple uniforms.

They looked happy and excited; they were meeting their friends, having fun. The street would then go quiet until about 10.30am when we’d hear them again in the playground; and then again

This, it seems to me, is the number one best way to get your child ready for primary school: as much as you can, show rather than tell. Try to be around the school sometimes as the children arrive or as they’re leaving for home; if you have friends with children already there, ask to go along with them sometimes for the drop-off or the pick-up. Give your child every opportunity you can to imbibe the sense that school is an exciting and interesting place to be.

Every child, and every parent, gets a bit nervous before their child starts at a new school. Even after 17 years of being a parent with children in school, I’m feeling a bit worried about my youngest daughter’s move to secondary school in September.

The fact that I’ve done school starts many, many times before doesn’t alter the fact that this is a first for Catriona, and because it’s a first for Catriona it’s a first for me too. But what I now know is how important it is for me to be confident, and to be positive, about the move. Of course I have mixed feelings: of course I’m a bit worried about how she’ll cope in new surroundings, about whether she’ll find it easy to make new friends, about whether she’ll like the school food and about whether she’ll settle down to the work. And when she wants to talk about those fears – because, of course, she has them too and it’s important not to deny our children’s feelings – I do. But I always remember to talk to her as well about how exciting this new start is going to be: because every beginning is a bit scary and involves risks - but our lives move on and grow and become whole because we embrace them and we’re brave about them.

Children worry when we worry, and they’re confident when we’re confident. So if you’ve got a child starting school this autumn, the number one thing to do is find the confidence in yourself: empathise with your child, but empathise with the fact that her world is opening up and becoming more exciting as well as with the fact that there will be wobbles. Try not to worry too much about the problems: believe in your own, and believe in your child’s, ability to deal with these as they come along. Don’t even, for a minute, bother about things like maths and English and reading: no, honestly, I mean it. Those things are for further down the line: all you have to think about, this September, is delivering a child to school with a song in his or her heart. Do that, and everything else will be easy.

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

September 2013

Which Secondary school is right for my child?

Joanna Moorhead on the 20 things you need to know when choosing ‘big school’ 1. 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 2. 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-year-old deserves a say.

3. 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.

4. 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?

5. How about the staff – do they seem happy and fulfilled working there?

Take opportunities to chat to them.

6. 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).

7. 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.

8. 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.

September 2013

9. 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?

10. 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?

11. 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.

12. Go to the head teacher’s talk and take your notebook. This is an 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.

13. 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.

14. 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.

15. 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.

16. 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.

17. 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.

18. Remember that there’s a lot of movement in the first few weeks after places are allocated, and many children get in from waiting lists.

19. 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.

20. 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.

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

September 2013

Education

Notting Hill & Ealing High School GDST Junior School for Girls Aged 4-11 26 St. Stephen’s Road, London W13 8HH Developing confident learners in an environment in which girls’ strengths flourish

Open Days Autumn 2013

To reserve your place at an Open Day, for further information on occasional vacancies in other year groups or to request a prospectus contact the Admissions Secretary

Tel: 020 8991 2165

Email: enquiries@nhehs.gdst.net www.nhehs.gdst.net September 2013

Registered Charity No. 306983

Tuesday 1 October at 1.15pm Wednesday 9 October at 10.15am Thursday 17 October at 10.15am Friday 8 November at 1.15pm Tuesday 19 November at 10.15am

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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Education

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

September 2013

Education

September 2013

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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Picture courtesy of Sainsbury's TU Childrenswear Collection

Open Day Dates 2013 Name

Address

Age

Dates

Contact details

Portland Place School

56-58 Portland Place W1B 1NJ

9-18

Tours: 1 and 8 Oct, 19 and 26 Nov 9-11am Open evening: 30 Sept 5-6.30pm Open morning: 9 Nov 10am-12 noon

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

Southbank International School (Westminster Campus)

63-65 Portland Place W1B 1QR

11-18

11 Nov 9.30-11am 1st Feb ’14 9.30-12.30. By appointment

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

Ravenstone Pre-Preparatory School

The Long Garden, Albion Street London W2 2AX

1-6

By appointment

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

Connaught House School

47 Connaught Square, London W2 2HL.

4-8B 4-11G

By appointment

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

Barbara Speake Stage School

East Acton Lane W3 7EG

3.5-16

By appointment

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

International School of London

139 Gunnersbury Avenue W3 8LG

3-18

By appointment

020 8992 5823 www.isllondon.org

Arts Educational Schools London

Cone Ripman House, 14 Bath Road, W4 1LY

11-18

1 Oct 6pm for Sixth Form entry 2 Oct 6pm for 11-14 year olds entry.

No booking required

020 8987 6600 www.artsed.co.uk e:pupils@artsed.co.uk

Orchard House School

16 Newton Grove, W4 1LB

3-11

5 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

W4 1TX

3-7B 3-11G

By appointment

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

The Falcons School for Boys (Nursery and Pre-prep)

2 Burnaby Gardens, Chiswick, W4 3DT

3-7B

28 Sept 10.30am-12.30pm

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

Clifton Lodge School

8 Mattock Lane, Ealing, W5 5BG

3-13

12 Oct 10am-12noon

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

Durston House

12 Castlebar Road, Ealing, London W5 2DR

4-13B

15 Oct 10am-12.45pm

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

St Benedict’s School

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

3-18

Open Mornings: Nursery and Reception: 19 Sept and 3 Oct Junior School: 8 and 16 Oct, 7 Nov Senior School: 17 Sept, 4 and 14 Oct, 21 Nov Senior School Open Evening: 17 Oct (all years) Sixth Form Options Evening: 26 Sept Advance booking only

Junior & Nursery 020 8862 2054 Senior 020 8862 2254 www.stbenedicts.org.uk enquiries@stbenedicts.org.uk

St Augustine’s Priory

Hillcrest Rd, W5 2JL

3-18G

Nursery through to 6th Form Open Morning 12 Oct 10am-2pm Book through admissions@staugustinespriory.org.uk

020 8997 2022 admissions@staugustinespriory.org.uk www.staugustinespriory.org.uk

The Falcon School for Girls

15 Gunnersbury Avenue, London W5 3XD

3-11G

By appointment

020 8992 5189 www.falconschool.com admin@falconsgirls.co.uk

Bute House Preparatory School

Luxemburg Gardens, Hammersmith W6 7EA

4-11G

Tours by invitation after registration

020 7603 7381 www.butehouse.co.uk mail@butehouse.co.uk

Ravenscourt Park Preparatory School

16 Ravenscourt Avenue, W6 0SL

4-11

By appointment

020 8846 9153 www.rpps.co.uk secretary@rpps.co.uk

Latymer Prep School

36 Upper Mall, Hammersmith W6 9TA

7-11

Open days throughout the Autumn term.

Telephone for an appointment

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

Latymer Upper School

King Street, Hammersmith London W6 9LR

11-18

14 Sept and 9 Nov. 11+ entrance only. (children in Year 6) Tickets required – contact the Admissions Office.

9 Oct – Sixth Form open evening

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

St Paul’s Girls School

Brook Green W6 7BS

11-18G

11+ entry 9 Oct and 6 Nov 5pm 12 Oct 9am or 11.15am 16+ 30 Sept 5pm

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

Godolphin and Latymer School

Iffley Road W6 0PG

11-18G

19 and 25 Sept, 15 Oct 4.45-6.30pm No need to book

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

Hawkesdown House

27 Edge St W8 7PN

3-8B

By appointment

020 7727 9090 www.hawkesdown.co.uk

Thomas’s Kensington

(Lower School-age 4-7) 39-41 Victoria Rd, W8 5RJ (Prep School-age 7-11) 17-19 Cottesmore Gardens W8 5PR

3-11

By appointment

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

The Lloyd Williamson School

12 Telford Road W10 5SH

6 months - 14 yrs

7 Nov 12-8pm

020 8962 0345 www.lws.org.uk

Bassett House School

60 Bassett Road W10 6JP

3-11

5 Oct 10am-12.30pm Book in advance

020 8969 0313 www.bassetths.org.uk

Notting Hill Preparatory School

95 Lancaster Rd, W11 1QQ

4-13

By appointment

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

Southbank International School (Kensington Campus)

36-38 Kensington Park Road, W11 3BU

3-11

11 Oct. 9.30-11am 15 Mar 14’ 9.30-12.30 By appointment

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

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

September 2013

Education Name

Address

Norland Place School

162-166 Holland Park Avenue W11 4UH

Age

Dates

Contact details

4-8B 4-11G

By appointment

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

3-11

By appointment

020 8998 9981 www.avenuehouse.org

(Junior – 4+ and 7+) Parents Only 1 Oct 1.15pm 9 Oct 10.15am 17 Oct 10.15am 8 Nov 1.15pm 19 Nov 10.15am (Senior) Parents Only 26 Sept 10.45am 7 Oct 10.45am 13 Nov 10.45am Senior School Open Evening, Parents and girls welcome – no need to book 16 Oct 4.30pm

Booking essential. Admissions 020 8991 2165 www.nhehs.gdst.net enquiries@nhehs.gdst.net

Avenue House School

70 The Avenue, Ealing W13 8LS

Notting Hill and Ealing High School (GDST)

(Junior) 26 St Stephens Rd, W13 8HH (Senior) 2 Cleveland Rd, W13 8AX

St James Junior School

Earsby St, W14 8SH

4-11B 4-10G

12 Oct 10am-12 noon.

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

St James Senior Girl’s School

Earsby Street W14 8SH

10-18G

Open Morning: 5 Oct 9.30-12.15pm Open Evening: 9 Oct 4.30-7.00pm 6 Nov 9-10.45am School in Action Sixth Form: 2 Oct 5.30-8pm

020 7348 1748 www.stjamesgirls.co.uk admissions@sjsg.org.uk

Fulham Prep School

200 Greyhound Rd 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

By appointment

020 7931 9469 www.eatonsquareschool.com admissions@eatonsquareschool.com

Westminster Under School

Adrian House, 27 Vincent Square Westminster SW1P2NN

7-13B

14 Sept 7+ 5 Oct 8+ 28 Sept 11+

020 7821 5788 www.westminsterunder.org.uk

Westminster School

Little Dean’s Yard, Westminster SW1P 3PF

13-18B Girls in Sixth Form

By appointment

020 7963 1003 www.westminster.org.uk registrar@westminster.org.uk

Fulham Pre Prep School

47A Fulham High Street SW6 3JJ

4-7

By appointment

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

Ravenstone Preparatory School and Nursery

24 Elvaston Place, SW7 5NL

3-11

By appointment

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

Thames Christian College

Wye St, SW11 2HB

11-16

26 Sept 11-12.30pm 5 Oct 10-1pm 9 Oct 11-12.30pm

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

The Falcons School for Boys (Prep School)

41 Kew Foot Rd, TW9 2SS

7-13 B

5 Oct 10.30am-12.30pm

020 8948 9490 www.falconschool.com admin@falconschool.com

The Harrodian School

Lonsdale Rd, Barnes, SW13 9QN

4-18

11+ Open morning: 9 Oct, 7 Nov Advance booking essential

020 8762 6321 www.harrodian.com admissions@harrodian.com

Ibstock Place School

Clarence Lane, London SW15 5PY

3-18

Prep School: 25 Sept and 13 Nov 9.30am Senior School: 18 Sept 5-7pm and 28 Sept 9am-12noon.

6th form 3 Oct 6-8pm

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

Hampton School

Hanworth Road, Hampton Middlesex TW12 3HD

Open Morning: 21 Sept 10am-1pm Visitor’s afternoon (booking required) 7 Oct, 5 Nov, 21 Nov, 2 Dec 2.30-4.30pm

020 8979 5526 www.hamptonschool.org.uk admissions@hamptonschool.org.uk

Orley Farm School

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

5 Oct 10am-12pm

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

Harrow School

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

13-18B

14 Sept, 21 Sept, 5 Oct, 2 Nov, 30 Nov 10am-12.45pm.

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

Quainton Hall School

Hindes Road, Harrow, HA1 1RX

2.5-13B 2.5-11G

21 Sept 10-12.30 By appointment

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

The John Lyon School

Middle Rd, Harrow on the Hill Middx HA2 0HN

11-18B

28 Sept 10am-1pm

020 8515 9400 www.johnlyon.org admissions@johnlyon.org

Heathfield School for Girls

Beaulieu Drive, Pinner, Middx HA5 1NB

3-18G

Open Day 5 Oct 10am-12.30pm Head’s Talks 10.15am & 12pm Open Evening 17 Oct 6pm-8pm Head’s Talks 6.15pm & 7pm Open Mornings 13 Nov & 21 Nov 10.30am-12pm Pre-booking not required.

020 8868 2346 www.heathfield.gdst.net E: admissions@hea.gdst.net

Northwood College GSA Independent Day School GSA IPS

Maxwell Rd, Northwood, Middx HA6 2YE

3-18G

Whole School 21 Sept 9.30-12.30 Sixth Form Open Evening 16th Oct 6pm School at Work Open Mornings 25 Sept 9.30am 5 Nov 9.30am Book ahead

01923 825446 www.northwoodcollege.co.uk admissions@northwoodcollege.co.uk

Merchant Taylors’ School

Sandy Lodge, Northwood, Middx HA6 2HT

11-18B

Open Morning 21 Sept 10-12.30 6th form-11 Nov 5.30-7.30 Mini Open afternoon for 11+ -7 Oct 4.30-6.30

01923 845514 www.mtsn.org.uk admissions@mtsn.org.uk

ACS Hillingdon International School

Hillingdon Court, Vine Lane Hillingdon, Middlesex, UB10 0BE

4-18

By appointment

01895 259771 www.acs-schools.com/acs-hillingdon hillingdonadmissions@acs-schools.com

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School

Butterfly Lane, Elstree, Herts WD6 3AF

5-18B

5 Oct 1-4pm (Main School and Prep School) 12 Oct Pre-Prep School by appointment only.

020 8266 1700 (01727 873 632 for pre-prep open day) www.habsboys.org.uk office@habsboys.org.uk

Haberdashers’ Aske’s School for Girls

Aldenham Road, Elstree, Herts WD6 3BT

4-18G

Junior School: 5 Oct 10am-12.30pm Senior School: 5 Oct 2-5pm and 10 Oct 6-8pm 6th form - 8 Oct 2.30-4.30pm by appointment

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

Eton College

Windsor Berkshire SL4 6DW

13-18B

By appointment

01753 671000

Thorpe House School

Oval Way, Gerrards Cross Bucks, SL9 8QA

5 Oct 10.00 – 1pm 8 Oct 9.30 -12.00

01753 882474 office@thorpehouse.co.uk www.thorpehouse.co.uk

September 2013

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

11-18B

4-13

3-16

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

13

Clubs and Classes

Extra-curricular activities

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

N

ot 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.

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.

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.

In addition, carefully selected activities can bring numerous 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 they

ALMEIDA MUSICA

MUSIC LESSONS

Piano, Cello, Theory and String Club

Limited availability. Book now for 2013/14!

Phone: 07889 434274 – 020 8840 0283 25 Green Lane, Hanwell, London W7 2PA (home visits available)

www.almeidamusica.com

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email: tlisboa@rcm.ac.uk

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

are successful at. 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.

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

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 great gains from being in a choir if it boosts their confidence.

A more tricky area is an activity you’d like your child to do when they’d rather 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.

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.

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.

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 short-changing her if her afterschool activity consists of nothing more than a TV programme, a snack and some good, oldfashioned playing.”

SEN activities Children with special educational needs can benefit hugely from well-chosen extracurricular 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 selfesteem. 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 your area.

September 2013

ACTON, EALING, MAIDA VALE and FULHAM • ACTON offers ballet, tap & modern, Irish, contemporary & beginners adult ballet • EALING and FULHAM offers ballet • MAIDA VALE offers ballet and tap & modern

FOR ALL ENQUIRIES CONTACT

Bridget Hearne-Saliba ARAD Dip PDTC RAD RTS T: 020 8992 6891 M: 07771 905226 E: bridgethearne@hotmail.com www.actonballetschool.co.uk www.fulhamballetschool.co.uk www.maidavaleballetschool.co.uk www.ealingballetschool.co.uk

Clubs and Classes

BALLET SCHOOLS

Ealing and Uxbridge 0208 979 8048 or ealing@littlekickers.co.uk Chiswick and Hammersmith 07792 503571 or bbrownlie@littlekickers.co.uk www.littlekickers.co.uk

Where learning’s a ball

September 2013

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

15

Clubs and Classes

© Paint Pots

Make your listing ‘stand out from the crowd’ with an enhanced listing – approx 100 words boxed or colour-backed, plus a graphic in our feature. For more information, please contact us adverts@familieswest.co.uk or 020 8930 4707

Classes suitable for 0-5 age group

Clubs and Classes Listings in West London LANGUAGE CLASSES

MUSIC AND MOVEMENT

ARABIC LANGUAGE CLASSES WITH REEM ABDELHADI Goal oriented classes for all ages and all levels, using multi-media and innovative educational material. After school clubs at Montpelier, North Ealing, and Southfield Primary Schools. GCSE, and GCE courses also offered.07956 845 053 e: r.i.abdelhadi@gmail.com

Almeida Musica – Early Musical Training based in Ealing. Music Lessons for children and adults focusing on piano, cello and musical theory. An early introduction to musical development can impact on discipline, coordination, movement and artistry.

Experienced teacher (PhD in Performance and Musical Development, member of staff at the Royal College of Music). Home visits available although spaces are limited. The string club focus on a variety of activities for all string players selected according to standard and age – e.g. chamber music, conducting, rhythm, singing, history of music, musical appreciation, etc.

020 8840 0283 07889 434274 e:tlisboa@rcm.ac.uk www.almeidamusica.com

CLUB PETIT PIERROT Fun French lessons for children (from 8 mths to 8 yrs old). Parent and toddler groups, after-school & Saturdays, all in French. Venues include Notting Hill, Maida Vale/St John’s Wood and Swiss Cottage. Private tuition at home for individuals and mini-groups also offered. Free trial lesson for new members 020 7385 5565 e: admincpp@btconnect. com www.clubpetitpierrot.co.uk GERMAN SATURDAY SCHOOL Schools in Ealing and Bayswater. www.gsscentrallondon.org.uk La Jolie Ronde French & Spanish 0208 998 1967 / 0790433972 e:scarlette@lajolierondelicensee.co.uk www.lajolieronde.co.uk LE CLUB FRANCAIS & EL CLUB ESPANOL www.lcfclubs.com/cecilehaddad

Language Skills Talk with Tasha Communication development group run by an Early Years Specialist Speech and Language Therapist with many years of NHS experience. The focus is on creating a fun, interactive group environment for 0-18mths and 18mths to 3yrs, stimulating children’s early language skills. Games and activities to support your child's attention and listening skills, use of eye contact, play, understanding of language and talking. Learn signs for key words to use alongside your spoken language and a range of 'top tips' for use at home. First class FREE. Pay by the week or buy a block of 6 sessions for the price of 5.

10am - 10.40am 0-18 months 11am - 11.40am 18 months - 3 years Mothercare, Kew Retail Park, Mortlake Road, Kew, TW9 4AD. Classes start Monday, 9 September and thereafter weekly at 10am-10.40am 0-18mths and 11am-11.40am for 18mths to 3 years.

07973 860051 info@talkwithtasha.com

Margaret Dance Academy Pitshanger Methodist Hall, Pitshanger Lane, W5 1QP

Mondays and Tuesdays Ballet from 21/2 years Tap from 31/2 years BRAND NEW: Wednesday HipHop/Modern Age 7-10 years: 5.30pm to 6.15pm Age 10-15 years: 6.15pm to 7.00pm

0208 740 0727

07848 967935

www.margaretdanceacademy.co.uk

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Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

AMANDA’S ACTION CLUB Using unique props and funky music, they dance, they sing,they learn through the music, but most importantly of all, they have fun! Available for classes and parties.

07946 707695 e:info@amandasactionclub.co.uk www.amandasactionclub.co.uk BLUEBERRY PLAYSONGS Guitar-accompanied nursery rhymes, action songs, instruments, games and dancing for 6 months -3 year olds in Barnes, Chelsea, Notting Hill and Hammersmith. Lots of fun for little ones with live music! 020 8677 6871 e:info@blueberryplaysongs.co.uk www.blueberryplaysongs.co.uk www.facebook.com/Blueberry.Playsongs BABBLEBUGS 07815 305 107 CADENZA Music and movement classes for under 5’s. www.cadenzaclasses.com CREATIVE FUN FACTORY www.creativefunfactory.co.uk JUMPING JELLYBEANS www.jumpingjellybeans.co.uk

When you contact these companies, please say that you saw them mentioned in Families West Magazine

The Little Music Factory in Notting Hill offers fun and interactive classes for pre-schoolers of all ages run by actress and teacher Cate Debenham-Taylor. She creates a familiar framework and then introduces different songs and activities each week to keep it fresh and exciting, using unusual and beautiful instruments from around the world for the children to experiment with, plus plenty of familiar ones too. The mixed age group gives the little ones the opportunity to learn from the older ones, but it also encourages the grown ups to join in too! She uses a parachute and bubbles for extra fun. Classes take place at St Mary of the Angels, Moorhouse Rd, W2 5DJ. Further information contact Cate on 07887 608299 or email cdebenhamtaylor@yahoo.co.uk

Award winning music classes for babies from 3 months to children of 4 years.

Come and join us for percussion, musical rhymes, exciting props, parachutes, bubbles and lots of fun.

Classes are 30 mins and running every day in a number of different locations in Holland Park, Notting Hill, Westbourne Grove and Kensington.

Please call 020 438 0189 or email hampstead.nottinghill@monkeymusic. co.uk for a complimentary class or see our website for a clip of the classes. www.monkeymusic.co.uk.

SING AND SIGN 020 7639 8038 e:vesna@singandsign.co.uk www.thelifecentre.com TIPPITOES Classes for under 4’s in Ealing www.tippitoes-ealing.co.uk WEST LONDON YMCA www.WestLondonYMCA.org

Established in 1994.

We provide zany and zestful inter-active music classes for babies, toddlers and 3-4 year olds. We use African drums, puppets, original Pickny Beat songs, dressing up, props, bubbles and lots of theatricality.

Come and visit us at The Youth Hostel in Holland Park on Tuesdays at 9.30am or 10.30am or join our Wednesday 9.45am class at The Life Centre in Notting Hill Gate.

Classes are booked by the term or you can arrange to drop in. Siblings over 6 months only pay an additional £2. We look forward to welcoming you and your child to our actionpacked Whippersnapper experience!

0207 738 66 33 or email cburghard@whippersnappers.org www.whippersnappers.org

Caroline Lester School of Dance offers ballet classes for girls & boys from 3+ following the ISTD syllabus.

We also organise ballerina birthday parties!

Classes take place every Wednesday during term time. Examinations are taken in the ISTD syllabus with a 100% pass rate. We are happy to take on new starters throughout the school year.

For more information please contact Miss Caroline on 0203 673 9421/07961375606 or visit our website at: www.carolinelesterschoolofdance.co.uk September 2013

Clubs and Classes

September 2013

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

17

Clubs and Classes MUSIC LESSONS

There are lots more things to do in the 'What's On' section of our website. www.familieswest.co.uk To advertise in future issues of Families West magazine please email adverts@familieswest.co.uk or phone 020 8930 4707

EALING JUNIOR MUSIC SCHOOL at Twyford Church of England High School, W3 every Saturday (in term time) 8.30am -1.30pm teaching music to children aged 3-18. Classes range from musicianship (group music & movement lessons for younger children) to individual orchestral instrumental lessons and 3 choirs, many ensembles/orchestras which can be joined free for the first term. 0208 930 0579 e: admin@ejms.org.uk www.ejms.org.uk QUESTORS YOUNG MUSICIANS CLUB www.qymc.org THE RHYTHM STUDIO 020 8969 8616 www.therhythmstudio.co.uk THE MUSIC HOUSE FOR CHILDREN www.musichouseforchildren.co.uk XBAND STUDIO School of Rock, Pop and More for 8–18 yrs. Play in a band, develop new skills and grow in confidence. Held at St Benedict's School, Ealing.

Free trial class. 07887 508040 e: office@xbandstudio.com www.xbandstudio.com

ACTIVE BODIES Gymnastics BACKFLIP PERFORMERS www.backflipperformers.com

LITTLE KICKERS Football based fun activity classes for children aged from 18months to 5 years.

Ealing & Uxbridge 0208 979 8048 ealing@littlekickers.co.uk Chiswick & Hammersmith 07792 503571 e:bbrownlie@littlekickers.co.uk QPR SOCCER SCHOOL www.qprcommunitytrust.co.uk THE LITTLE FOXES CLUB www.thelittlefoxesclub.com

Rugby Rugbytots, the UK's first rugby-based pre-school activity group, now runs Saturday morning sessions in Ealing, Chiswick, Ruislip and Uxbridge. Call John on 0845 313 3241 for details.

Golf BRENT VALLEY GOLF COURSE www.bvgc.org DUKES MEADOW GOLF www.dukesmeadows.com

Martial Arts ELKAI KARATE ealingkarateclub.com EALING CHOI KWANG-DO www.themartialartforlife.com LONDON KARATE www.londonkarate.org.uk SMOUHA KARATE SCHOOL Offers boys and girls aged 5-17 the opportunity to learn Shotokan Karate and improve their self confidence at the same time.

The school has several British Open Champions and is associated with the Shotokan Karate Association UK (SKA UK). Classes are held at Porchester Centre, Bayswater. www.smouhakarate.com

Multi-sport Gymboree Bayswater & Chiswick offer award-winning interactive classes and children’s party entertainment. Gymboree is the world leader in play focusing on the importance of play for cognitive, social-emotional and physical development for under 5’s.

We offer a unique programme including Sensory Baby Play, Play & Learn, Music and Art; all using our spectacular apparatus and props.

Book your FREE trial class today!

Bayswater 020 7229 9294 bayswater@gymboree-uk.com

BABY SPA www.yourbabyspa.com SWIMMING NATURE www.swimmingnature.com

Tennis TEDDY TENNIS www.teddytennis.com WILL TO WIN www.willtowin.co.uk

Yoga APOTHECARY www.londonapothecary.co.uk MAMABABYBLISS www.mamababybliss.com/teachers/jacquelineharakis

THE LITTLE GYM Gymnastic classes for children from 4 months to 12 years focusing on motor skill development in areas such as coordination and balance as well as increasing confidence, listening and social skills. Parents/Carers and children attend together for children under 3 years. Free trial class available. Venues in West London include Chiswick (020 8994 3729), Westfield (020 8735 0817), Hampton and Teddington (020 8977 0099) and Wandsworth & Fulham (020 8874 6567) www.thelittlegym.co.uk

WEST NINE YOGA www.westnineyoga.com

TUMBLETOTS 0208 546 3825 www.tumbletots.com WEST LONDON YMCA 020 8832 1576 or www.WestLondonYMCA.org

Circus skills Albert & Friends Instant Circus, Learn to walk on stilts, hang from a trapeze or balance on a tightrope!

Build confidence, get physical and have fun at these active classes for ages 18 months + 0208 237 1170 e:info@albertandfriendsinstantcircus.co.uk www.albertandfriendsinstantcircus.co.uk

Football KIDDIKICKS Football (W2, W4, W8, W10, W11, TW8) Energy burning football classes for your toddler and child. Available for boys and girls from 18 months to age 7. All coaches qualified and CRB checked. 020 7937 7965 e:info@kiddikicks.co.uk www.kiddikicks.co.uk

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

Swimming

Chiswick 07967835057 chiswick@gymboree-uk.com

TWISTERS run gymnastics classes in Ealing and Chiswick for children from 6 months to 14 years+ Teachers at Twisters are well known for their patience and understanding and children of all abilities are welcome. Adult exercise classes also available.

Call Hermione on 020 8933 9997 or Louise on 020 8840 4452 e:twisters@btinternet.com www.twisters.org.uk

18

Fit for Sport 0845 456 3233 e:enquiries@fitforsport.co.uk

THE BABY YOGA COMPANY 07808 586153 e:alice@thebabyyogacompany.com

PERFORMING arts Allsorts drama for children run their popular drama classes during term time on Friday’s at More House School, 22-24 Pont Street SW1 for ages 4-6 from 4pm – 5pm and ages 7-11, 11-13 and 14-18 from 5pm – 7pm and on Saturday’s at Notting Hill Prep School, Lancaster Road W11 and South Hampstead Girls School, Netherhall Gardens NW3 for ages 4-6 from 10am – 11am and ages 7-11, 11-13 and 14-18 from 11pm – 1pm.

Term begins on the 20th / 21st September, if you would like your child to try a class.

Tel 0208 767 5298 or for further info visit www.allsortsdrama.com Allsorts also run wonderful holiday workshops and arrange bespoke drama parties.

Bunbanter's Young Theatre Company www.bunbanter.com/#!young-theatre-co/c1999 JIGSAW PERFORMING ARTS Drama, dance and singing for students aged 3 to 18 years.

Locations in Ealing, Harrow, Hendon and more.

Two week trial available. 020 8447 4530. e:enquiries@jigsaw-arts.co.uk www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk

September 2013

Clubs and Classes PERFORM DRAMA, DANCE AND SINGING CLASSES for children 4-8 years old. Aims to help to improve confidence, concentration and communication and co-ordination skills whilst having fun. Classes in Chiswick, Ealing, Greenford, Isleworth, Ickenham, Notting Hill, Kew, Hammersmith and Barons Court.

0845 400 1285 e:enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk PERFORM PLUS Drama classes for children aged 8-12 in Notting Hill, Ealing and Baron’s Court. 0845 400 1285 e:enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS SCHOOL CHISWICK AND KENSINGTON Quality, down-to-earth training for 4-18 year olds in the three performing arts disciplines of dance, drama and singing in a very safe and happy environment. All classes are taught by professional teachers with industry experience in their fields. Venues: Chiswick – Strand on The Green School, Thames Road, Chiswick W4 3NX and The William Hogarth School, Duke Road, Chiswick W4 2JR 020 8398 4709 e:chiswick@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/chiswick.

Kensington – Addison Primary School, Addison Gardens, London W14 0DT and St Barnabas & St Philips School, 58 Earl’s Court Road, Kensington W8 6EJ 020 8398 8106 e:kensington@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/kensington PADDINGTON ARTS e:info@paddingtonarts.org.uk www.paddingtonarts.org.uk PINEAPPLE ARTS admin@pineapplearts.com www.pineapplearts.com PORTOBELLO PERFORMING ARTS 07983 739938 e:info@portobello-arts.org.uk www.portobello-arts.org.uk

September 2013

Dance ANGELA GRANT SCHOOL OF DANCE www.balletclasseslondon.co.uk ARTS EDUCATIONAL SCHOOLS www.artsed.co.uk/part-time CAROLINE LESTER SCHOOL OF DANCE offers ballet classes in Chiswick for girls and boys from 3+ following the ISTD syllabus.

The school aims for the children to gain confidence, co-ordination, strength, discipline and musicality along with having good fun and meeting new friends. Exams are also taken in Imperial Ballet with a 100% pass rate.

0203 673 9421 or 07961375606, e: info@carolinelesterschoolofdance.co.uk, www.carolinelesterschoolofdance.co.uk twitter: @Clesterballet DELANEY ACADEMY OF IRISH DANCE Traditional Irish dance classes are available for young children (aged 4+) and adults, at all levels from beginner to advanced. Dancers are encouraged to compete at local and international competitions as well as grade exams and local performances. Classes are held at the Hammersmith Fitness and Squash Centre in Hammersmith and Dance Attic, Fulham.

Registered with An Coimisiun le Rinci Gaelacha. www.delaneyacademy.com INNOVATIONS 020 8998 2283 e:enquiries@ealingdance.co.uk www.ealingdance.co.uk KENSINGTON BALLET offers ballet for children 18mths-9yrs, 07957650042 www.kensingtonballet.com LONDON DANCE TEACHERS are available all over London to take ballet, modern, tap, street, contemporary classes in Primary, Secondary, Nursery, Health & OAP clubs from September. Bridget Hearne-Saliba 07771 905226 e:bridgethearne@hotmail.com

LONDON DANCE SCHOOL offers dance classes for all ages. Pre-school lessons provide an imaginative and fun introduction to dance while older students have the opportunity of performing and taking exams with the Royal Academy of Dance. Classes take place in Chiswick, Brook Green and Virgin Riverside.

Contact Sarah Daultry at 0208 940 3793 e:sarah@londondanceschool.com www.londondanceschool.com MARGARET DANCE ACADEMY was established in Ealing 24 years ago, and Margaret has been teaching for 40 years. Your child will be taught to the highest standards.

0208 740 0727 / 07848 967935 www.margaretdanceacademy.co.uk

Our aim with our ballet classes is to introduce young children to the magical world of dance whilst having fun at the same time. The classes are a fusion of basic Ballet and Creative Movement and each class has a Teaching Assistant to support the Teacher when needed.

No uniform required and we do not enter children for examinations.

The focus is on enjoyment.

Classes available for children aged 2 - 7 years.

Address: Arch 197, Prebend Gardens, Chiswick, W6 OXT Web: www.stepintoballet.co.uk E-mail: info@stepintoballet.co.uk Telephone: 020 8987 8788

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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Clubs and Classes When you contact these companies, please say that you saw them mentioned in Families West Magazine

TWISTERS run classes in Dance Drama, Ballet, Tap and boys and girls street dance for ages 2-14. Call Hermione on 020 8933 9997, Louise on 020 8840 4452 or e:twisters@btinternet.com www.twisters.org.uk

DAISYCAKES www.daisycakeslondon.co.uk

Become a Dance Teacher, a new concept in dance teacher training www.becomeadanceteacher.co.uk

EXAMBERRY www.examberry.com

Arts and Crafts Art barn www.artbarnclasses.com BROOK GREEN ART CLASSES www.brookgreenart.com CORNER 9 ART 07763 472516 e:info@corner9.com KITE STUDIOS www.kitestudios.org LITTLE ART STUDIO www.littleartstudio.co.uk LITTLE ARTISTZ Contact Carla 07903312807 PAINT POTS Creative Classes @ Paint Pots House - The Boltons, Chelsea and also in Notting Hill offer accompanied and unaccompanied classes for children from as young as 6 months of age in the mornings and afternoons, from Tuesday – Friday. Children love the atmosphere of exploration and discovery at these classes, where everyone has fun, makes friends and learns along the way! 08456 434441 www.paint-pots.co.uk TODDLER TIMES www.toddlertimes.co.uk W4 ART CLUB www.w4artclub.com YOUNG ARTIST 07811378073 www.young-artist.co.uk

COOKERY

‘All about inspiring young children to cook and enjoy healthy food’

KIDS COOKERY SCHOOL www.thekidscookeryschool.co.uk

School support EXPLORE LEARNING English and Maths tuition based on the National Curriculum, for ages 5-14.

Includes sessions on creative writing, creative maths, 11+ entry and success for secondary school. West London venues include Ealing, Hayes and Westfield.

Ealing 020 8090 8710, Hayes 020 8561 8530, Westfield 020 8090 1216 www.explorelearning.ltd.uk FIRST CLASS TUTOR GROUP www.firstclasstutorsgroup.com FLEET TUTORS National tutoring service with 36 years experience in helping students of all ages and abilities, in all academic subjects from school entry and Common Entrance through to GCSE, A-Level and University. Recommended by ‘The Good Schools Guide’.

0845 644 5452 e: clientsupport@fleet-tutors.co.uk www.fleet-tutors.co.uk KUMON MATHS AND ENGLISH www.kumon.co.uk 0800 854 714 MATHS DOCTOR A company with over 500 tutors providing one-to-one maths and physics tuition for all levels including 11+ school entry, GCSE and A Level. They start with a free online assessment of your child’s level and learning style in order to match the tutor to your child. 020 7193 1871 e:helpdesk@mathsdoctor.co.uk www.mathsdoctor.co.uk MRS JONES EDUCATION 020 8390 6076 www.11plustuition.co.uk NUMBERWORKS'NWORDS in Ealing. Specialist Maths & English tuition for children aged 4 years to 16 years. GCSE tuition, 11+, and Common Entrance exam preparation. Confidence building and extension.

Ofsted registered. Free assessment and trial lesson.

Call Rhian Prosser BSc PGCE on 020 8840 8404 e: ealing@numberworks.com www.numberworks.co.uk

We offer * classes & workshops for primary schools * * holiday classes * * kids’ cooking parties *

TOPS TUITION specialise in 11+ tuition for all grammar and independent schools . They ensure that every child understands masters and perfects the techniques and strategies needed for 11+ exam.

07514 558188 www.topstuition.co.uk

Relish Kids’ Cookery offers a range of fun, interactive workshops and cookery lessons for primary school-aged children to enhance the school curriculum.

VICTORIA PAGE PRIVATE TUITION for ages 2 1/2yrs - 11+ Scholarship. Fully qualified teacher with many years experience. (est. 1982) Exceptional References. Private tutoring instead of school or extra tuition after school. Maths, English, Reading, Verbal and Non Verbal Reasoning, 11+ Common Entrance, Preparatory School Exams & Nursery Syllabus.

0705 0246810 (no texts) or 0207 381 9911 www.victoriapage.net

We aim to: • inspire children about healthy food • teach children essential cookery skills • enable them to make healthy choices Contact Sarah on 07947 063 155 sarah@relishkidscookery.co.uk www.relishkidscookery.co.uk

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

Cookie Crumbles call for details 02088769912 e:info@cookiecrumbles.co.uk www.cookiecrumbles.co.uk

WEST LONDON DANCE ACADEMY is an IDTA accreditied school, offering classes in Ballet and Tap Dance to children.Classes are taught by qualified teachers in Chiswick & Ealing. 07771 984590 info@westlondondanceacademy.com www.westlondondanceacademy.com

West London School of Dance Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Singing, Annual performances. Boys and girls age 2.5 - 16 years old. Studios in W1, W8, W11, W12, SW7 020 8743 3856, e:westlondondance@aol.com www.thewestlondonschoolofdance.co.uk

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L’atelier des chefs www.atelierdeschefs.co.uk

VIVIEN BORNEMANN offers Home Tuition in Art, Craft and Design. Help with exams for school.

02089321010

September 2013

Nursery Schools

September 2013

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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What's On DAYS OUT CHURCHILL WAR ROOMS SW1A 2AQ www.iwm.org.uk/visits/churchill-war-rooms Located in the heart of Westminster, visitors to the Churchill War rooms can view this complex of historic rooms left exactly as they were in 1945.

ONGOING IN 2013 - UNDERCOVER - LIFE IN CHURCHILL'S BUNKER First-hand personal accounts of those who worked in the Cabinet War Rooms during the war. Learn what life and conditions were like underground and experience the authenticity and emotional resonance of walking through the corridors where Churchill made history.

Bach to Baby

Diary Dates 3 Sept (Notting Hill) 27 Sept (Chiswick) BACH TO BABY The critically acclaimed classical concert series specifically designed for babies and carers to enjoy together. Treat yourself and introduce your wee ones to live classical music during the crucial years. For more info call Miaomiao Yu on 0781 450 9280 e: miaomiao@bachtobaby.com 6-15 Sept THE MAYOR'S THAMES FESTIVAL One of London's biggest and best free, outdoor arts festivals, which has now been extended to a 10-day celebration for the first time.

There'll be river-themed art, music and educational events both on the Thames and along its banks and bridges as well as 340 boats taking part in the Great River Race. www.thamesfestival.org 7 Sept GREAT RIVER RACE A 21 mile course upstream from London Docklands to Ham. Around 300 crews from all over the globe take part. Families can watch it from Chiswick Pier where the first boats should be passing by 1.45pm with the winner arriving at Ham at around 2.40pm. There will be a BBQ, Fullers’ bar, and refreshments. Pier House and bar open at 12.00 www.chiswickpier.org.uk 13 Sept ROALD DAHL DAY Make a date with mischief and mayhem! There are lots of ways to join in the fun: sign up for Puffin Virtually Live on 13 Sept to find out more about Roald Dahl and his characters, plan your costume for Dahlicious Dress Up Day on 27 Sept or throw your own Roald Dahl party. www.roalddahlday.info 13-15 Sept THE CAKE AND BAKE SHOW in Earl’s Court. Highlights include: The Cake Catwalk – couture themed cake creations and a live catwalk show with an edible twist. Two demo stages – one dedicated to bread, the other to cakes and desserts, a bake-off competition for visitors and a cupcake and cocktails bar. www.thecakeandbakeshow.co.uk 15 Sept POP UP SCREENS AT RAVENSCOURT PARK Showing The Wizard of Oz at Ravenscourt Park. Bring a picnic and enjoy a family event. www.popupscreens.co.uk/movies/wizard-oz 18 Sept REDI TRAINING Paediatric first aid training classes held in Kensington for parents and nannies, covering all essential topics in a practical and engaging session. 0207 348 7117 www.redi-training.co.uk 20 Sept JEANS FOR GENES DAY In aid of Genetic Disorders UK, Jeans for Genes Day aims to change the world for children with genetic disorders, so get your school together and raise money by wearing your jeans and donating £1. Individually, genetic disorders are rare but together they affect 1 in 25 children born in the UK - that's more than 30,000 babies each year. Their associated health problems mean that genetic disorders are the biggest cause of death of children aged 14 years and under. www.jeansforgenesday.org 21-22 Sept OPEN HOUSE LONDON WEEKEND See some of London's best-loved architectural delights- a chance to visit around 750 iconic buildings, venture on guided tours, discover exciting future projects and take part in debates. There's also film screenings, family activities, a photography competition and more. www.openhouselondon.org.uk 21 Sept NCT CHISWICK AND HAMMERSMITH NEARLY NEW SALE At Chiswick Town Hall (table top sale) and Christ Church Turnham Green (large equipment, bake sale and bouncy castle. Goody bags for every attendee, helium balloons for the little ones, bake sale, bouncy castle and children's photographer. To register large items for sale, e: chiswicknns@yahoo.co.uk

1 and 8 Sept AHOY CAPTAIN! Join Captain Woodget, Cutty Sark’s longest serving master, and hear tales of his voyages across the high seas. 11am, 12noon, 1.30pm and 2.30pm.

7 Sept FAMILY FUN WEEKEND The race is on! Create your own board game inspired by Cutty Sark’s races around the world. Drop-in workshop.11.30 am and 2pm.

Throughout Sept ALL HANDS ON DECK Demonstrations of sailing skills and hands-on activities on the Main Deck of ship.

GOLDEN HINDE SE1 9DG www.goldenhinde.com 14 Sept THAMES FESTIVAL WEEKEND. Mini guided tours – experience the life of a Tudor sailor, visiting the various areas and learning of the history of the ship. 12pm to 4pm.

28 Sept FAMILY OVERNIGHT EXPERIENCE Children will be dressed as Tudor sailors and become members of the crew. After learning the ship’s rules, they will be trained in navigation, barber surgery and gunning, before bedding down to sleep amongst the weapons on the Gun Deck. A Tudor style dinner and continental breakfast is provided. For age 6+

HAMPTON COURT PALACE KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk Until 3 Nov SECRETS OF THE ROYAL BEDCHAMBER An exhibition exploring the bedchambers of the 17th and 18th Century royal court.

7-8 Sept TUDOR COOKERY Watch the cooks toiling in the Kitchens of King Henry VIII, preparing the exotic dishes for his majesty.

HMS BELFAST SE1 2JH www.iwm.org.uk

22 Sept TOUR OF BRITAIN The eight-day cycle race will return to London for the traditional and iconic finish on Whitehall. www.thetour.co.uk/tourofbritain

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 twenty-six men in this confined space at any one time.

29 Sept EALING HALF MARATHON AND MINI MILE Race starts and finishes in Lammas Park. Also a one mile race for young runners aged 6 – 11. 9.30am www.ealinghalfmarathon.com/ealing-mini-mile

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

21 Sept EALING 135 40TH ANNIVERSARY BASH at Double Tree Hilton Hotel, 2-8 Hanger Lane, Ealing W5 3HN at 7.30pm. Event open to adults only, members past and present, their friends and anyone else who fancies a fun night out locally! e:135anniversaryevent@gmail.com

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CUTTY SARK SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

September 2013

What's On 7-8 Sept POINTS ON A COMPASS Explore the countries and cultures that the ship encountered. Storytelling and object handling from across the world.

11am – 12.30pm and 2 – 4pm.

KENSINGTON PALACE W6 4PX www.hrp.org.uk/kensingtonpalace

OSTERLEY PARK AND HOUSE TW7 4RB www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterley-park 1 Sept HAVE A GO ARCHERY 12-4pm for adults and children.

21 and 22 Sept OPEN HOUSE LONDON Free access for all to the House and Gardens.

Ongoing exhibition: FASHION RULES Dress from the collections of HM The Queen, Princess Margaret and Diana, Princess of Wales. Elegant dress displays will explore how these royal figures were representative of the spirit of each decade, reflecting and inspiring everyday fashions.

21 and 28 Sept BAT WALK Take a guided walk around the estate with the wardens, using bat detectors to search for bats.

6.30pm. (7pm for 28 Sept)

KEW GARDENS

ROYAL OBSERVATORY GREENWICH

TW9 3AB www.kew.org Until 3 Nov INCREDIBLES: A FESTIVAL TO FEED THE IMAGINATION Experience firsthand a selection of the 30,000 species we can feast on. Be part of a giant fruit salad installation by hiring a fruit-shaped boat (10-5pm), stroll around a floating pineapple on the Palm House pond, travel the globe in the gastronomic garden, join a tea party with a twist, bask in a beer garden, or attend incredibly interesting talks and workshops.

ODDS FARM PARK HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk Sept Board the daily tractor and trailer rides for a fun tour of the farm, race go-karts, and meet furry animals in the large, undercover animal barn. Also, there is a Giant Indoor Playbarn, with a massive adventure play area including a 4 lane Astra Slide, 2 large drop slides, a netted area with zig zag chicanes and tunnels, swinging ropes and a special Toddler and Under 5’s area.

Outdoors, there is an Adventure Maze, Go-Karts, Log Play Areas and Crazy Golf.

Daily SHEEP RACING RETURNS TO ODDS FARM PARK With a specially built mini race track with jumps and bends, eager sheep with miniature jockeys, Sheep Racing is an event not to miss at Odds Farm Park.

Plus, guess the winning sheep and take home a Medal!

4 Sept PEPPA PIG MEET AND GREET Meet Peppa Pig between 11am and 4pm.

September 2013

29 Sept FAMILY DISCOVERY DAY Creative fun days for families, each with a different theme. 1-4pm.

SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk Until 8 Sept ALIEN REVOLUTION A new exhibition which takes an intimate look at the history of our relationship with extra-terrestrial life through science and culture.

ONGOING EVENTS: MEET THE NEIGHBOURS Meet our neighbours in space in this entertaining interactive show, where you decide which planets to visit. 5yrs+, £6.50/£4.50. Mons and Weds in term-time and everyday in the school holidays.

SOLAR SYSTEM, GALAXY, UNIVERSE Exploring the scale of the Solar System, Galaxy and Universe and how we measure it.

5yrs+, £6.50/£4.50. Every Tues and Weds in term-time.

SPACE SAFARI Join Ted the teddy bear for live music and rhyme as he journeys throughout the solar system looking for the Great Bear in the sky. Age 7 and under, £6.50/ £4.50. Tues in term time and every day in the weekends and holidays.

SKY TONIGHT LIVE A live show presented by a Royal Observatory Astronomer takes visitors on a tour of what can be seen in the night sky. 12.30, 2 and 3.30pm, 5yrs+, £6.50/£4.50 WE ARE ALIENS Explore how our understanding of life on Earth guides the hunt for alien life elsewhere in the Universe, in this exciting new planetarium show narrated by Rupert Grint of Harry Potter fame. Every day. For ages 5+ 28 Sept SATURDAY SPACE EXPLORERS 2-4.30pm, drop-in, free event for ages 5+ An introduction to space and astronomy to younger visitors.

Participants build simple instruments from cardboard kits, such as planet finders and moon dials, which they can take away and use at home.

For children aged from 2 to 5 years. The nursery follows the Montessori method. We also offer, French, Ballet, Music, IT, Art and Drama.

Full and part time sessions are available. Qualified and experienced teachers maintain a high standard of learning and care. * Excellent academic record * Caring and nurturing environment * Happy, considerate and confident children

Tel no: 0208 579 2304 Mobile no: 07956 228 959 Email: info@stmatthewsmontessori.com Website: www.stmatthewsmontessori.com Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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What's On EXCHANGE: 1,000 GOOD DEEDS AT THE FOUNDLING MUSEUM 1000 individual good deeds will be placed between the base of a cup and its saucer, these instructions are revealed only when a cup is selected. In order to keep the cup, one must agree to complete the good deed; otherwise the cup must be replaced. As the exhibition unfurls, the good deeds will be revealed.

GEFFRYE MUSEUM E2 8EA www.geffrye-museum.org.uk 21 Sept MARVELLOUS MAGNETS Creative workshop for children. Create ceramic-inspired magnets for your home. 2 - 4pm

Bank of England TOWER OF LONDON EC3 www.hrp.org.uk Ongoing: COINS AND KINGS: THE ROYAL MINT AT THE TOWER Discover the history of the Mint at the Tower including Isaac Newton’s efforts to rid London of counterfeiters when he was Warden of the Mint.

Throughout Sept FORTRESS TOWER Welcome to the greatest fortress in the land! Knights and squires prepare to do battle for the Kingdom of France.

2 Sept-25 Oct THE PEOPLE OF THE MINT. Find out more about the lives of the men who lived and worked at the Mint – where did the gold and silver come from and how was it turned into coins?

THE LONDON WETLANDS CENTRE SW13 9WT wwt.org.uk/visit-us/London Thursdays in Sept BIG BAT WALK Go along at sunset with a bat expert and bat detectors and identify the species of bat swooping around! For ages 8+ Book in advance on 020 8409 4400.

7 Sept-20 Oct AUTUMN FAMILY WEEKEND ACTIVITIES Craft activities including making hats and face masks of wetland creatures using colourful leaves and reeds, games, talks on migration and looking out for the birds arriving from further north.

ZSL LONDON ZOO

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MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM EC2R 8AH www.bankofengland.co.uk 21-22 Sept Open House Weekend Enjoy 30-minute guided tours of parts of the Bank not generally accessible to the public. No booking required. Come early to avoid the queue.

Until 9 Nov Cartoons & Caricatures. Published and unpublished material from the Bank of England's own collection of prints and drawings. 5.30pm-9pm

British Library NW1 2DB www.bl.uk 8 Sept Write, Camera, Action! Visit the pop-up photographic studio where you can use props and words to create your own propaganda image. 11am-4pm.

BRITISH MUSEUM WC1B 3DG www.britishmuseum.org

22 Sept TEA PARTY HEADRESSES Creative workshop for children. Craft a terrific tea party headress using card and other materials. 2 - 4pm

GRANT MUSEUM OF ZOOLOGY WC1E 6DE www.ucl.ac.uk/museums/ whats-on/grant_listings 21 Sept CAMDEN FAMILY FUN DAY A day ot at Coram's Field where there is plenty to see and do for families including dressing up, storytelling, arts and crafts and amazing animals. Free, 1-5pm.

28 Sept EXPLORE ZOOLOGY Hands-on specimen based activities including exploring what the skin of a python feels like or how sharp a shark's tooth is. 1-4.30pm.

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM www.iwm.org.uk SE1 6HZ HORRIBLE HISTORIES®: SPIES Uncover the deadly world of spies at this major new interactive exhibition for families which brings the horrible history of Second World War spies and their secret schemes to life. Based on Terry Deary’s book from the bestselling Horrible Histories series.

To 29 Sept. LIFE AND DEATH IN POMPEII AND HERCULANEUM The life and times of the people of Pompeii and Herculaneum – from the bustling street to the intimate spaces of a Roman home, the exhibition will look at daily life prior to the devastating volcanic eruption of nearly 2000 years ago.

ARCHITECTURE OF WAR Artists’ responses to the impact of warfare on our surrounding landscape and environments.

FOUNDLING MUSEUM

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

NW1 4RY www.zsl.org

WC1N 1AZ www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk

15 Sept ZSL LONDON ZOO STAMPEDE. The most unique 10k run in London! Whether you want to sprint, strut, stomp or slither, this Stampede event will provide runners of all abilities with an unforgettable experience.

Until 15 Sept FLOURISH The show includes painting, sculpture and photography by talented artists up to the age of 25, each of whom has experienced the challenges of growing up being looked after by someone other than their parents. 10am-5pm.

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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.

HOLOCAUST EXHIBITION 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.

LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM WC2E 7BB 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.

Until Oct POSTER ART 150 – LONDON UNDERGROUND’S GREATEST DESIGNS Since its first graphic poster commission in 1908, London Underground has developed a reputation for commissioning outstanding poster designs. 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.

Until Dec LOOK FOR LONGER 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

MUSEUM OF LONDON EC2Y 5HN www.museumoflondon.org.uk Every Weds MINI MOLES BABIES GROUP 11am-2pm, for babies aged 6-18 months and parents. Sensory, hands-on play activities. Messy babies every third Weds of the month. LITTLE MOLES TODDLERS GROUP 3.30-4.30pm, for toddlers from 18 mths-5yrs. Hands-on creative sessions. Messy Moles on last Weds of the month.

Every other Sunday MUSEUM EXPLORED Join one of the Museum's hosts and explore the galleries through fun, hands-on activities. 11am and 2pm, free.

7-8 Sept SUMMER OF CYCLING FOR FAMILIES A fun day of all kinds of cycling activities, safety, fashion and art all on the theme of riding a bike. Bring family and friends as they will have something for everybody from beginners to experts.12 - 4pm 29 Sept ENTER A VICTORIAN PHOTOGRAPH Create fictional Victorian characters and their life stories, then using blue screen technology, dress up and enter a photograph from the time. 12.30 1.15pm, 2 - 2.45pm and 3.30 - 4.15pm September 2013

What's On NATIONAL ARMY MUSEUM SW3 4HT www.nam.ac.uk VICTORIAN SOLDIERS ACTION ZONE Quizzes, games and hands-on activities help you learn about life as a Victorian Soldier and the part they played in the shaping of Britain’s Empire Every Sat A SOLDIER'S LIFE IN...WORKSHOPS. Drop in to these one-hour Saturday workshops and learn about the life of a soldier.

2pm and 3.30pm 21 Sept IF THE INVADER COMES… A day of hands-on activities giving a taster of life in the Home Guard. Take part in drill, have a go at putting out fires, learn about unexploded bombs and marvel as the gun and searchlight teams scan the skies for danger. Finish it all off with a sing song round the piano!

10.30am - 4.30pm

NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM SE10 9NF www.rmg.co.uk Every Sat in Sept EXPLORE SATURDAYS Meet a character from the past and take part in a performance bringing maritime history to life. 12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm, 6yrs+, free Every Sun in Sept DISCOVER SUNDAYS Be inspired by our maritime past and explore your personal connections to the sea.

11.30-1.30pm and 2-4pm, free 3, 10, 17, 24 Sept PLAY TUESDAYS Make music, dance and drama. Under 5s, 10.30am, 11.30am, 1pm and 2pm, free

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM SW7 5BD www.nhm.ac.uk Until 15 Sept. SENSATIONAL BUTTERFLIES Dive into the tropical butterfly house to take on butterfly challenges, try out fun games and exciting activities as you discover one of the planet’s most amazing life cycles. £4-£16

Until 8 Sep. EXTINCTION: NOT THE END OF THE WORLD? Giant deer, bizarre insects and super-sized birds – millions of species that once roamed the planet are no longer around.

Until 31 Oct WILDLIFE GARDEN With habitats including woodland, meadow and pond, the garden is a haven for thousands of British plants and animals, and demonstrates the potential for wildlife conservation in the inner city.

ACTIVITES FOR FAMILIES: 1 July-23 Nov WALLACE100: WALLACE DISCOVERY TRAIL Alfred Russel Wallace was one of the world’s greatest naturalists and co-discoverer of the theory of evolution by natural selection. At the new Wallace Discovery Trail families can become intrepid explorers and follow the trail around the Museum to see some of Wallace’s most important specimens. There are also lively, interactive Nature Live talks about Wallace in the Attenborough Studio.

28 Sept 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.

Every Sun CUTTING EDGE WORKSHOP Investigate teeth and diet using the amazing animal skulls.

Handle real specimens, take part in fun group activities and see how Museum palaeontologists use skulls to find out about dinosaur diets.

11.30am, 1.15pm and 3.15pm (Sun only)

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD E2 9PA www.museumofchildhood.org.uk

There are lots more things to do in the 'What's On' section of our website.

www.familieswest.co.uk To advertise in Families West please email adverts@familieswest.co.uk or phone 020 8930 4707 VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM SW7 2RL www.vam.ac.uk POP UP INTERACTIVE PERFORMANCES 11am, 1 & 3pm 7 Sept WHO'S BEEN SLEEPING IN MY BED? From small stools to big beds, follow Goldilocks as she experiments with different kinds of furniture on her adventure in the three bears’ house. A 20 minute performance with puppetry.

14 Sept CURIOUS CRAFTS AND MYTHICAL MODELS Step back in time to the days of Queen Victoria when William Morris and his friends were causing a storm in the Art World!

21 Sept THE PUPPET MAN IS COMING TO TOWN Join famous puppeteering families as they travel around Europe and help make their puppets sing and and dance.

28 Sept DRAGONS, LIONS & FOOTBALL From the 3 lions on England’s football Shirt to the dragons of ancient Italian family crests, explore these fascinating coat of arms symbols.

5 Oct THE BOY WHO SAT ON THE DRAGON THRONE (BSL INTERPRETED) Find out about Pu-Yi, the 2 year old emperor who ruled over china in the Forbidden City.

FREE ART FUN-BACK-PACKS, ACTIVITY CART AND ANIMAL BAGS Families can pick up an activity Back-Pack, 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.

THE WALLACE COLLECTION W1U 3BN www.wallacecollection.org Daily Self-guided Activities A family multimedia tour, with interactive games, armour handling in the Conservation Gallery and gallery trails.

1 Sept THE LITTLE DRAW. Free, drop-in drawing workshop for all ages. 1.30-4.30pm, suitable for all ages and abilities.

14 Sept TRAVELS THROUGH TIME From medieval battlefields to Victorian London, musician Neil Valentine and artist Caroline Dorset guide you through a day of time travel and adventure. Find inspiration from the Wallace Collection’s galleries and exhibits, then take your ideas back to Wigmore Hall to create your own musical work of art.10.30am – 3.30pm. Adults £12 Children £8.

Ages 5+. In partnership with Wigmore Hall. Buy tickets online on www.wigmore-hall.org.uk/whats-on/ productions/travels-throughtime-33272

Until Mar 2014 WAR GAMES New interactive exhibition exploring the role of warfare in children's play from 1800 to the present day. It investigates how toys recreate and represent war, and why children play war games. There are four thematic sections-Playing at War, On the Battlefield, Reality to Fantasy and Secret Weapons.

Children can dress up, play at espionage and engage in many other activities.

14 Sept THE DESIGNED CHILD A series of workshops and talks with East London designers as part of London Design Week, exploring the theme of design for (and inspired by) children. 12-4pm

Natural History Museum September 2013

Every Sat ROMP AND ROLL Bust a move in this fun, playful dance session for toddlers with Adrenaline Dance. Age 2-4. 10.15 and 11.15am £3 Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

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What's On THEATRE AMBASSADORS THEATRE WC2H 9ND www.theambassadorstheatre.co.uk Sept STOMP Celebrating its 10th sensational year in London, Stomp is now fresher, faster and funnier than before. 3pm and 8pm

GARRICK THEATRE WC2H 0HH www.nimaxtheatres.com 25 Sept- 5 Jan 2014 HORRIBLE HISTORIES – BARMY BRITAIN PART 2 Can you beat battling Boudicca? Has William Wallace met his match? Can evil Elizabeth entertain England? Will King Charles keep his head? Escape the clutches of Burke and Hare and move to groove with party Queen Victoria! Don't miss this horrible history of Britain with the nasty bits left in!

LYRIC HAMMERSMITH W6 0QL www.lyric.co.uk 27-28 Sept I BELIEVE IN UNICORNS From the book by award-winning children’s author Michael Morpurgo comes a spellbinding tale full of fun and magic. For ages 5-11.

Followed by Messy Play session after Saturday shows.

5 Oct THE SORCERER’S APPRENTICE Enchanting puppets and a dash of real magic bring this family favourite to life. For ages 4-7.

Messy play session after each show.

PUPPET THEATRE BARGE

GLOBE THEATRE

W9 2PF www.puppetbarge.com

SE1 9DT www.shakespearesglobe.com

Sats and Suns in Sept THE HARE AND THE TORTOiSe AND OTHER TALES FROM AESOP These well-known fables from Aesop’s famous collection are brought to life with drama and humour. Staged with beautiful lighting and carved marionettes. For ages 3+

Until 12 Oct A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Until 13 Oct MACBETH CHILDSPLAY – Multi-media workshops for 8 - 11 year olds exploring matinee performances through crafts and storytelling and a visit to see some of the live show. Parents and guardians may buy tickets to see the matinee from £5 (www.shakespearesglobe.com) whilst your child attends the workshop. 7 Sept A MIDSUMMER NIGHTS DREAM 1.45pm SACKLER STORYDAYS – Join storyteller and education practitioner Debs Newbold for a dramatic re-telling of Shakespeare’s dark tragedy.

For ages 9+ 21 Sept MACBETH 11am

WC2N 4ES www.ballet.org.uk 21 Sept BALLET BUDDIES OPEN DAY: NUREYEV 11am-2.30pm. ENB welcome their youngest supporters to Markova House to watch the dancers in morning class or rehearsal. Buddies will learn about English National Ballet in a relaxed atmosphere, see the dancers and have the chance to ask lots of questions. The visit includes a look at costumes and pointe shoes, refreshments and souvenirs of the visit to take home.

LONDON PALLADIUM W1F 7TF www.reallyuseful.com Ongoing A CHORUS LINE Captivating song, riveting drama and stunning choreography.

For age 10+ 26

Families West PO Box 32231 London W5 1JR

Until 8 Sept CAPTAIN FLINN AND THE PIRATE DINOSAURS Join Flinn as he discovers a pirate hiding in a cupboard, hold on tight as the cupboard falls away and tumbles into a real life adventure. For ages 2+ Until 15 Sept MONSKI MOUSE'S BABY DISCO DANCE HALL A high-energy smash-hit parents' and children's dance event for under-fives.

Monski and her team will have heads and shoulders, knees and toes bopping along to retro dance tracks, pop favourites and funky nursery rhymes.

THEATRE ROYAL DRURY LANE WC2B 5JF www.reallyuseful.com/theatres/theatre-royal-drury-lane

EC1R 4TN www.sadlerswells.com

LONDON COLISEUM

SOUTHBANK CENTRE SE1 8PX www.southbankcentre.co.uk

28 and 29 Sept GAMELAN TASTER SESSION Learn to play this beautiful Javanese percussion instrument. No previous musical experience is necessary. For ages 8+

THE LILIAN BAYLISS STUDIO Until 22 Sept WEST SIDE STORY One of the greatest musicals of all time, based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and packed with unforgettable songs and groundbreaking choreography by Jerome Robbins.

11-15 Sept GRANDPA IN MY POCKET: TEAMWORK! A young ensemble cast bring all your favourite Sunnysands characters to life before your eyes in this brand new stage show.

REGENTS PARK OPEN AIR THEATRE NW1 4NU www.openairtheatre.com Until 7 Sept THE SOUND OF MUSIC The classic musical in the open air theatre.

Until 8 Sept DINOSAUR ZOO From cute baby dinos to teeth-gnashing giants, meet the most recent addition to the Dinosaur Zoo, a carnivorous theropod known as the Australovenator, the most complete meat-eating dinosaur skeleton yet found in Australia. Discover all about dinosaurs in this entertaining and highly imaginative live show – plus get up close and personal with them on the picnic lawn before you go. For ages 3+

RICHMOND THEATRE TW9 1QJ www.atgtickets.com/Richmond 5-7 Sept GOTTA SING GOTTA DANCE An exhilarating journey through the wonderful world of musical theatre features two hours of spectacular song and dance numbers.

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 12-29 Sept OTHELLO: A REMIX Lyrically re-written over original beats, The Q Brothers return with their fresh take on the powerful tale of betrayal, jealousy and self-doubt with their fired-up hip-hop. For ages 13+ 13 Sept-17 Nov DORA Dora is a storer. Birdcages and books, bicycles and balls, boxes and biscuit tins, Dora finds and keeps everything. Letting go of things can be hard but sometimes giving something away can make you even happier. Dora's story celebrates the pleasure in giving and receiving. For ages 4+ 21 Sept-14 Nov SENSACIONAL An interactive and immersive digital experience for ages 18 mths – 4 years.

September 2013

Classifieds Parties

Online Competitions 5 pairs of Tickets up for grabs...

To enter go to www.familieswest.co.uk

Malcolm the Magician H Children’s Magic H Games H Disco H Competitions H Juggling H Balloon Modelling H Live Rabbit T. 01243 868084 M. 07734 925330 E. malcolmboxall@aol.com www.malcolmthemagician.co.uk

The nation's favourite baking show, The Cake and Bake Show returns to Earls Court this September! Celeb demonstrators for this show include Tom Herbert, Mich Turner, Stacie Stewart, Richard Bertinet, Simon Rimmer, Eric Lanlard, John Whaite, Paul a Young, Apprentice finalist Luisa Zissman and many more. Highlights include: • A Nielsen-Massey Cupcakes and Cocktails Bar with cupcakes made

by Cake Boy aka Eric Lanlard and Cocktails created by VANILLA. • Sainsbury's competition theatre where visitors can take on Great British Bake Off stars • Stands selling the latest baking equipment, ingredients and artisan cakes, breads and pies • Live cake decorating and sugarcraft skills Classrooms where visitors can learn cake decorating skills from the experts.

Dates: 13th-15th September Venue: Earls Court, Warwick Road, London, SW5 9TA Tickets: Adults £14.50 Children £7 www.thecakeandbakeshow.co.uk Closing date 9th September

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Chiswick & Hammersmith Saturday, 21 September 10am – 12noon Main Sale: Chiswick Town Hall Large Equipment Sale, Bake Sale & Cafe, Bouncy Castle and Children's Photographer: Christ Church Turnham Green Entry: 2 pounds For more details contact: chiswicknns@yahoo.co.uk NCT Alexandra House, Oldham Terrace, London W3 6NH. NCT is a registered charity in England and Wales no.

(801395) and in Scotland no. (SC041592).

September 2013

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September 2013