Families upon Thames September 2014 by Families Magazine

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upon Thames

September 2014 Issue 97

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

RECRUITING NOW

Successful ‘business mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside & without compromising family commitments or current career. If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background, or you wish to develop an extraordinary lifestyle,

please call Diana Page

01235 533362 07747 086518

Education Focus Classes and Clubs

Confidence Building Fun Try a Free Drama Class

Watch your child’s self-esteem soar with our weekly classes for 4–12s Child development is at the heart of everything we do. So our drama, dance and singing sessions will boost your child’s confidence, improve their concentration and give them an outlet to have fun. We have opened a new school in Staines. Call 0845 400 1284 or visit perform.org.uk for a free class at your nearest venue.

For parents/carers of kids from 0 -12 in North Surrey and the boroughs of Richmond, Kingston and Hounslow

Age range 18 months – 7 years

CRB checked and FA qualified coaches Training sessions, courses and parties across London

A safe and creative environment in which your child can thrive in their experience of sport and develop a love for playing the greatest game on earth! Check us out on

Facebook + Twitter for regular Competitions and Discount Codes

try us for free

get in touch with your local kiddikicks for more details

Kiddikicks HQ

NW Surrey

Twickenham

@kiddikicks

Includes Richmond, Sheen, Brentford and Chiswick

Includes Kingston, Weybridge and East Molesey

Includes Hampton, Twickenham, Feltham, Teddington, Isleworth

KiddikicksHQ

020 7937 7965

020 3560 9256

0800 035 4464

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nwsurrey.kiddikicks.co.uk

twickenham.kiddikicks.co.uk

THE URBAN FARM PROUDLY PRESENTS

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FESTIVAL OF FISHKEEPING 07970 106434/020 8847 3586 joenethersell@gmail.com HOUNSLOW URBAN FARM www.hounslowurbanfarm.co.uk 020 8831 9658 The Dog Show 07585 048406 empretsandempraws@gmail.com GENERAL ADMISSION FROM 10AM DOG SHOW FROM 11AM To enter your dog, visit www.empretsandempraws.co.uk

URBAN FARM, FAGGS ROAD, FELTHAM, GREATER LONDON TW14 0LZ

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September 2014

ADULTS PLAY TOO!

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Contents

FREE TRIAL CLASS

Page 4 Page 8 Page 10 Page 15 Page 34 Page 44 Page 46

Health and Wellbeing Parenting Early Years Care and Education Education Focus Classes, Clubs and Activities Parties amme for 2-5 year olds. What’s On nis progr ce ten

a up an Serving

TO ADVERTISE IN THIS MAGAZINE CONTACT: LINDA STONE, Editor m: 07530 283330 t: 020 8241 0423 e: editor@familiesuponthames.co.uk We provide a fun www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

Affiliated to England Netball.

The Spring Sale

and safe environment for Find us and like us on Facebook Facebook.com/familiesuponthames preschool children to learn tennis, get actively involved @FamiliesuponT and build their Now more thanconfidence 5300 followers! Indoor during the early years venues in of development.

Surrey.

Lorem Dolor Sit&Amet Classes in Ipsum Richmond, Barnes Putney Classes in Richmond, Barnes & Putney NETSTARS CLASSES FOR CHILDREN AGED 6-12 ON WEDNESDAYS, THURSDAYS & SATURDAYS BACK TO SCHOOL NETSTARS CAMP

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See www.netstarsnetball.com for further details netstars.com Or email us at info@ Families Advert_Surrey.qxp_Layout 1 06/08/2014 14:22 Page 1

Our next issue is Learn published on tennis, have 1 October and will fun and meet include everything you new needfriends. to enjoy a fabulous, local Autumn Half Term!

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FAMILY HEALTH AND WELLBEING ECZEMA IN CHILDREN By Melanie Capper

The skin is our body’s largest organ. We absorb up to 70% of what we put onto it and pass unwanted waste out through it. Sometimes the natural functioning of the skin can break down causing irritating or debilitating skin problems, particularly in children. Although most are harmless, it’s always important to check with your GP. One of the most common skin problems in children is eczema. Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition which leads to dryness, itchiness, redness and in more severe cases, cracking of the skin. It is found mostly on the cheeks,

Mixed Level Vinyasa Flow Yoga Classes and Workshops in Teddington & Whitton 1:1’s available in the Richmond-upon-Thames area

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elbows and knees in children and on the inside surfaces of the elbows and knees in adults. Scratching eczema can lead to infections due to the introduction of bacteria. The most common form of eczema is atopic eczema which mainly affects children but can persist into adulthood. Common causes of eczema include genetics, environmental factors such as dust mites, moulds, pollen, pets and household chemicals, food sensitivity, dietary imbalances and stress. Unfortunately there is no cure for eczema. Your GP may prescribe an emollient for dry skin to control symptoms, and if this is not effective, a topical corticosteroid. However, prolonged use of topical corticosteroids can have adverse side effects and should be used with caution, particularly on children’s delicate skin. Providing there is no infection, occlusive dressings and wraps are also sometimes used to prevent the skin from drying out and therefore reduce itching. If the skin has become infected, antibiotics may be prescribed. Some mothers choose more natural methods of managing the symptoms of eczema. These can include analysing a child’s diet and avoiding possible sensitivities (such as eggs, cow’s milk, soya, wheat, fish and nuts), detecting and avoiding the environmental triggers listed above and trying to reduce the stresses which may be exacerbating symptoms. Some may also choose to use a more natural emollient to help to keep the skin well moisturised and reduce irritating symptoms.

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Melanie Capper (Bsc Nutritional Medicine) is a nutritionist whose special interest in the skin led her to create her own premium quality natural skincare range. Her Eczema Relief Cream contains natural oils, aloe vera and skin supporting vitamins such as A and E along with anti-inflammatory Sea Buckthorn extract. Labelled “outstanding” and smelling beautiful, it is free from alcohol, SLS, mineral oils, paraffin and parabens. For further information, visit www.melaniesgarden.co.uk

GETTING BACK IN THE SADDLE? By Phil Cox

Are you thinking about re-entering the workplace, after years of raising children? If so you’re not alone. Many women reach the most senior levels in their chosen careers, before leaving work to become full time mothers. Later, when their children become more independent, they look to re-enter the workforce – but often in a new industry or area of work. This has its challenges. We’ve just experienced the UK’s longest double-dip recession, and the job market has changed beyond recognition. Certainly, updating your skill-set and improving your market knowledge are pre-requisites, but often the single biggest challenge for mothers thinking of going back to work is addressing a loss of self-confidence. It’s easy to lose a sense of your professional self during the parenting and home making years. The idea of re-entering the workforce also makes many mums feel guilty. Will going back to paid work be detrimental to their family? Such guilty thoughts do battle with

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September 2014

FAMILY HEALTH AND WELLBEING

the need for professional fulfilment. With a bit of careful planning it is possible to re-enter the workforce in such a way that your role as a mother is not compromised. You may find it helpful to consider the following: What’s Important to Me? Each of us is driven by a number of values which are important to us, and shape our choices about how we live our lives. Understanding these values can be helpful when thinking about your future professional direction. What Skills Can I Offer? What balance of skills can you bring to a new role? Think broadly here – it’s not just about the technical stuff, and neither is it just about “what I used to do.” If you do voluntary work, what do you like about it? Learning from the Past Look for patterns in your previous career path. What was it about the ‘good times’ that fulfilled you? When were you least happy, and why? This might give some clues about the kind of area of work that would suit you best.

HYPNOTHERAPY BRINGS RELAXATION AND RELIEF TO MUMS! By Alexandra Rickard Imagining the Future Imagine what your ideal role would look and feel like. It might seem a long way off, but visualising it will give you something for which to aim. It’s ‘Who You Know’ Now is probably a good time to start setting up – or updating – a LinkedIn account. Re-connect with people you have worked with in the past, irrespective of their field. You never know who they might know. Getting Ready You’ll know when you’re feeling confident enough to ‘get out there!’ Don’t worry if it takes a while for your sense of readiness to build. In the meantime, you might also want to think about developing a fresh, skills-based CV.

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Phil Cox is a business coach and registered counsellor practicing in Surrey. He specialises in supporting clients as they explore practical and emotional issues linked to the workplace. For more information on how Phil can help, visit www.philcoxcounselling.co.uk

Becoming a mother is a very exciting time but nothing can prepare you for the upheavals that occur when your little bundle of joy arrives. Sleepless nights, shattered nerves, lack of motivation, ‘baby blues,’ transitioning back to work and more, can affect even the most ‘together’ of mums. When support is required, visiting a hypnotherapist can arm mothers with a targeted hypnotherapy plan designed to support their needs and help make life run more smoothly. What is Hypnotherapy? It is a powerful therapy which involves putting a person into a relaxed hypnotic trance in order to effect positive changes in their life. When in this state, a hypnotherapist can communicate with the subconscious mind of a client, where all their behaviours, belief systems and habits are stored. Whether you need to sleep better or overcome a phobia, these outcomes can be achieved at the subconscious level in hypnosis, resulting in quick, lasting and positive changes. What Is Being in Hypnosis Like? Hypnosis is a totally natural state of relaxation between wakefulness and sleep. It’s not frightening in any way. During a hypnotherapy session you are gently guided into a deeply relaxed state by listening to the sound of the hypnotherapist’s voice and following their instructions.

How Can Hypnotherapy Benefit Mums? For many reasons, busy mums tend to have high stress levels which negatively affect their sleeping patterns and mood. For this reason, the first thing tackled in a hypnotherapy session is the alleviation of stress. Following this, other concerns such as low self esteem or lack of motivation are addressed. Another benefit of hypnosis for sleep-deprived mums is that it is comparable to a power nap – after just 30 minutes of hypnosis you will feel rested and more energised than before. We all know how hard it is to simply switch off and relax into a ‘power nap’ at home. Hypnosis easily guides you into a relaxing trance, so all you have to do is sit back and listen while you quickly drift off into a restful state. Bliss! So next time you feel like you can’t cope or long for change in your life, consider hypnotherapy and experience for yourself its positive results .

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Alexandra Rickard runs Hypnotherapy for Women, a hypnotherapy practice based in Richmond that caters for the needs of women. For more information or to book a FREE consultation, visit www.hypnotherapyforwomen.co.uk

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FAMILY HEALTH, AND WELLBEING

Nutrition

DOES YOUR CHILD HAVE TUMMY TROUBLES? By Clare Jeffries Digestive problems in young children, such as toddler diarrhoea and childhood constipation are unfortunately fairly common. Diet can influence both these conditions, but it may also be that the delicate balance of bacteria in the digestive tract is not as healthy as it could be. This is often overlooked. Levels of healthy gut bacteria can decline if a child is born by c-section, not breastfed for long, or has had an antibiotic or steroid medication. Toddler diarrhoea is a condition which causes an otherwise healthy child to have multiple loose bowel movements per day, often containing some undigested food. The child experiences little if any discomfort but the diarrhoea may be a sign that the digestive system is not working quite as it should. With simple dietary changes and sometimes with the use of appropriate probiotic (healthy gut bacteria) supplementation, this

condition can often be resolved. If your child regularly goes two or three days between bowel movements, this is not normal and indicates childhood constipation. Abdominal discomfort and sometimes the fear of pain when passing a stool can cause children (and parents) distress. This is why it is important to address constipation early, to avoid a child developing this fear, which can compound the problem. How Can You Help Your Child? For toddler diarrhoea: ◆ Cut down on sugary foods and fruit juices which can make the bowel more watery. ◆ Increase healthy fats in the diet (ground nuts and seeds, oily fish, full fat milk, yoghurt and cheeses) as these slow down digestion. ◆ Increase fibre from vegetables, fruits, beans, wholemeal bread and pasta. For childhood constipation: ◆ Increase fluid intake and fibre (as above) which will help the stool pass along the bowel more easily.

◆ Prune juice diluted with water can help soften the stool. If you have tried these dietary changes and there has not been significant improvement, taking a high quality probiotic supplement for several months is worth a try. If you are unsure if this is appropriate for your child, need advice on an appropriate probiotic or suspect certain foods may be aggravating your child’s digestive problems, you could consider visiting a Nutritional Therapist registered with the British Association of Applied Nutrition

and Nutritional Therapy (BANT) and experienced in this area.

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Clare Jeffries (BSc (Hons) Nt) is a BANT-registered Nutritional Therapist who offers home visits in Cobham, Weybridge, Walton and Esher areas. She specializes in the nutrition and health of babies, children and pregnant mothers. For more information, visit www.healthyinfluence.co.uk

THE 5:2 INTERMITTENT FASTING PLAN By Jacky Hems and Kathleen Farren This latest big diet trend involves restricting your calorie intake for two days a week and eating whatever you like on the other five. Sound too good to be true? Well, emerging scientific and anecdotal evidence suggests it’s not. In the days when food was scarce, fasting was a necessity, not a choice, so the human body is hardwired to deal with it. How Does it Work? The effect of restricting calories to 500 for women, or 600 for men, for two days every week makes a big difference to how the body responds to insulin. It becomes much more efficient at controlling because during the two ‘fasting’ days, there is no intake of starchy and storing blood glucose and breaking down fat. This is primarily carbohydrates - the foods that

have most impact on blood glucose and insulin release, and can affect weight. In addition to lowering blood glucose, the effects of fasting may also lower cholesterol. How Might you Feel? The thought of reducing your calories by around three-quarters on a fasting day may seem daunting. However, an initial trial day can help you decide if this plan could work for you. You may discover that you experience hunger pangs in the middle of

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the day, but these usually pass. It helps to know that the next day you can eat normally again, although, contrary to what you may think, you are unlikely to want to eat more than usual. Although, in theory, you can eat what you like on non-fasting days, the best way to achieve results on this eating plan is to eat healthy, nutrient-rich, low glycaemicload (non-refined, slow-release carbohydrates) foods for five days a week. Is this Eating Plan Suitable for Everyone? People who are pregnant, have Type 1 Diabetes, an eating disorder or very low body fat should not adopt this plan and, if you have an underlying medical condition, consult your GP before trying it. It is not suitable for children. If you have yo-yo dieted in the past, prepare for the fasting plan with a healthy, low glycaemic-load diet, without fasting, for about three months to help stabilise blood sugar and re-balance your metabolism. Then move on to the fasting plan.

Jacky Hems and Kathleen Farren are registered nutritionists and weight management coaches. Jacky is the owner of The Nutrition Mission (www.thenutritionmission.co.uk), and offers personalised consultations in Teddington, whilst Kathleen (www.kfnutritioncoaching.com) offers personalised consultations in Twickenham. 6

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September 2014

FAMILY HEALTH, AND WELLBEING

Nutrition

SPECIAL READER OFFER! PROMOTION!

THE TRUTH ABOUT DETOX! By Marion Couffon

We read about the need to detox, cleanse and purify our bodies all the time. Celebrities are always detoxing – seemingly by starving themselves! The process is supposed to “remove natural toxins” that “clog the colon and liver” in order to “promote optimal energy” and “improve overall health.” Do We Need to Detox? Most medical professionals advise that standard detoxification programs are unnecessary, don’t work, and may even be harmful. They argue that the body is constantly undergoing a natural detoxification process, breathing out carbon dioxide, sweating, urinating and passing bowel movements. The liver and colon remove toxins and waste from the body, whilst the cells of the body remove cellular waste and repair oxidative damage. But it is also widely recognized that today’s poor food choices lead easily to diets deficient in micronutrients, whilst external toxins (pollution, pesticide, chemicals from food additives, cleaning products, personal care items), combined with stress, diminish the function of the liver and colon, and the ability of each cell to process toxins. Signs that your body may be struggling to process toxins are: ◆ Stuffy head ◆ Increased weight gain ◆ Fatigue and difficulty sleeping ◆ Digestion and gastrointestinal problems ◆ Food cravings ◆ Loss of mental clarity ◆ Low libido But how do you know if these symptoms are a result of a micronutrient deficiency? The most accurate, non-invasive measurement tool is called the BioPhotonic Scanner, a device which quickly measures antioxidant levels in the body’s tissues. If you have a deficiency, it’s essential to replace processed foods with those dense in nutrients. This restores the body’s natural detoxification process by replenishing micronutrients which help the liver and colon work efficiently. As well as dietary

September 2014

changes, supplementation can also restore nutritional deficiencies. By measuring regularly with the Biophotonic Scanner you will know if you have corrected your deficiencies and that you are maintaining a proper nutrient balance. While correcting diet and micronutrient deficiency is essential, the deepest level of purification can only be achieved at a genetic level. Dr Steve Horwitz based in the USA is passionate about the science of gene expression, called epigenetics, applied to anti-ageing and nutrition. He advises “Gene expression is the process by which the damage of the body’s natural repair mechanisms over time accelerates the ageing process. Intervening with nutritional compounds that enhance the removal of cellular toxins and stimulate repair mechanisms may protect against or modulate gene expression, preventing, delaying and/or extending the ageing process.”

PROTECT YOUR BODY AND IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH AND YOUR SKIN! Test your antioxidant level, non-invasively in 90 seconds for just £10! Discover whether you have a micronutrient deficiency and what to do about it. The test uses the BioPhotonic Scanner (pictured above), a device which quickly measures antioxidant levels in the body’s tissues. Micronutrient deficiencies can lead to serious illness, as well as accelerating the ageing process. They are caused by a combination of poor food

choices, external toxins and stress, all of which undermine liver and colon function and the ability of our cells to process toxins. If you are deficient in micronutrients, you may need to make adjustments to your diet or require supplements to boost your antioxidant levels. These are key in protecting our bodies against cancer, neurological diseases and even improving the health of our skin!

To more information and to benefit from this special offer, contact Marion at marion@abcphotoweb.com or call on 07768 256556.

Such nutritional compounds are now available in the form of AgeLOC R2, the only researched blend of nutrients that addresses cellular detoxification at the level of gene expression, and energy production at the deepest level – the mitochondria of the cells. Suzanne Burns reports “I have been using R2 since November 2012 and I will never stop using it! As a busy woman and mother of three children, R2 has helped tremendously with my energy levels during the day. My sleep has become much deeper and I wake up full of energy with much more clarity and focus.”

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Marion Couffon is a busy mumpreneur based in Chiswick. Marion offers BioPhotonic Scanner tests to establish your antioxidant levels and information about Ageloc R2. For more details, email marion@abcphotoweb.com or call 07768 256556

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PARENTING

The Myths about Children’s Play By Dr David Whitebread Many parents would love to spend more time playing with their children but this is often impossible. Don’t despair. Scientists have shown that as well as offering your child a variety of play experiences, your attitude and approach to play are as important as the amount of time you actually spend playing. MYTH 1 Children Should Always Be Busily Engaged with an Activity Early education in nurseries and primary school is more structured and formalised than in the past. Simultaneously, today’s tiger-parent society makes parents feel that they must keep their children constantly occupied. However, children need regular time to simply play and to choose the type of play according to their interests. MYTH 2 You Shouldn’t Put Your Child at Risk through Play Parents today are so concerned about letting their children out unguarded, that this can inhibit them from learning to become independent. Children learn

through taking risks and those that are deprived of nature and the opportunity to climb trees, build dens and play in rivers, miss opportunities to learn to assess risk and, if necessary, deal with the consequences. Equally, children without access to the outdoors and natural environments may be at higher risk of obesity, self-harm and mental health disorders, all of which have increased significantly in the UK in recent years. It’s important to strike a balance between giving your kids the chance to take risks and keeping them save. If you have more than one sibling, you may want to delegate the role of parent to an older sibling occasionally, allowing younger children to have some freedom under the supervision of a more mature child. MYTH 3 Children Should Play with Kids Their Own Age Socialising in mixed-age groups is an important part of child development. Few of us feel part of a community today, and with smaller nuclear families and extended family living further apart, your child may have limited access to children of different ages. In mixed-age

27TH - 28TH SEPTEMBER Come and meet Wallace & Gromit at various intervals each day! Ride the steam trains and find out more about the railway's cracking gadgets and gismos!

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group play, younger children naturally learn skills from older kids by mimicking them, as well as having the opportunity to face the challenge of interacting with an older audience. Older children benefit by learning how to take responsibility for younger children. Actively encourage play opportunities with older and younger children – give them the opportunity to find their own ways of communicating. MYTH 4 Children Always Need Adults around them to Play Scientists have examined how children play in the hunter-gatherer societies that remain in the world today. They have discovered that they play all the time, without adult support, frequently imitating adults, and that this positively equips them for life in the adult world. Allowing children to have sufficient autonomy to develop independence and resilience arms them with the tools they need for the future. MYTH 5 Technology Constitutes Lazy Parenting Technology is part of our modern world so it certainly shouldn’t be a ‘no-go’ for parents today. The key, as with all things, is balance and moderation. Too much screen time obviously prevents children from engaging in a range of other beneficial activities, so keep these tech tools in your armoury, but restrict

their use. Excessive, solitary screen-based play in early childhood can be problematic if it limits the development of children’s other play skills, and links have been established with difficulties in social development and obesity. Benefits of screen-based play include quickened reaction time, an increased tolerance of frustration, mental stimulation, and co-operation, with children playing with friends and parents. Top Tips for Parents ✿ When you play with your children, do something you both genuinely enjoy. Your enjoyment is infectious and creates the right, emotionally warm environment for play and development. ✿ Offer your children the widest range of experiences. Consider settings which don’t have set or prescribed tasks, for instance: a wood or the beach. Use the resources in nature. ✿ Give children as much autonomy as you can. Allow them to take risks. Let them get dirty! They need to work out how the world works, without you taking over.

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Dr David Whitebread is Senior Lecturer in the Psychology of Education at Cambridge University. September 2014

PARENTING

How to Make Your Child Feel Special By Lisa Parkes I want to let you in on a little secret: when your child feels special and loved, then they feel happy. When they feel happy, they are more likely to listen and co-operate with you. What could be easier? You just have to love them. That’s easy right? But how does your child know you love them? Lots of parents just assume their kids know that they love them, or believe that saying “I love you” is enough. But children are behaviourally motivated and they respond to actions. In order for them to feel special, they need to feel connected to you and loved on their terms. Of course, you will still need to set appropriate boundaries, use the word “no” and role-model the behaviours you want to see in your child, like honesty, assertiveness, positivity and kindness. However, if you learn to speak a child’s language of love, connection will be easy and you will see a shift in the way that your child behaves. There are five key ways of showing children you love them: ✿ Physical touch ✿ Verbal affirmation ✿ Quality time ✿ Acts of Service ✿ Gifts Have a think about when your child is at their most peaceful, contented and happy. What have you done with them, to them or for them to help them into this state? Have you given them a long hug, spent time reading to them, or helped them with their

homework? Whatever it is, build it into your routine, giving your child a dollop of their favourite kind of love, at least once a day. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you started every day with your child as if it were your last? So rather than yelling “Get in the car now!” you give them a hug. Or instead of relentlessly interrogating them about whether they have their homework and sports kit, you actually listen to what they are trying to say. Here are some ways to start the day by making your child feel special, and fostering that special connection between you: Morning Snuggles Set the alarm a little earlier, unless, of course, your children are your alarm! Snooze and snuggle until the alarm goes off again. Create some quiet time for you all before the morning craziness begins. Kisses and Meaningful Goodbyes Don’t part company without resolving a squabble. Look your children in the eye, give them a kiss, wish them a good day and tell them that you love them. Mean it. At some ages, your children may not think this is cool, but if it’s in the car or in the hallway where nobody can see, then you might just get away with it!

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Lisa Parkes is a Children’s Coach based in Surrey. She is passionate about helping children become more resilient to life and runs regular workshops for those suffering from shyness, lack of confidence or low self-esteem. For more information and for Lisa’s FREE download which shows you how to pour more love into your family, visit www.lisaparkeslifecoaching.co.uk/love

Twickenham Stadium and its official hospitality provider Twickenham Experience Ltd aim to deliver the best sporting event experience in the UK. The drama and passion of international rugby, the finest food and drink, and the friendly personal service combine to create a world-class venue at the heart of the local community.

Would you like to be a part of this? Twickenham Experience are offering casual work opportunities on match days. Perfect for parents or those looking for additional weekend work! Roles Available: Hospitality Waiter/ess , Retail Bar Staff How to apply: For further information and to apply please visit: .

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Notice the Good Find something positive to tell your children. Notice what they have done well in preparing for the day. No matter how small it is, tell them. Play ‘3 things I want to happen today’ This is a good way of tuning in to what is going on for your child at school and a chance to show them that you are listening. Their answers could be anything from getting full marks in a spelling test to having macaroni cheese for lunch. Let them be silly if they want! If they want Mrs Hogwart to fall in a puddle of mud, or the Sweetie Fairy to come and cover the entire school in gooey chocolate, laugh about it. Laughter is a great mood enhancer and allowing children to have their fantasies is important. Life doesn’t always go the way we want it to but having fun and dreaming help make up for this! Hide a written note Put it in their lunch box, school bag or coat pocket to wish them good luck in a test, to tell them what a good friend they are or to remind them how much you love them.

September 2014

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

. Early Years Care and Education .

YOU KNOW YOU NEED A NANNY WHEN... By Carla Vecci

✿ You’re a reasonably high earner and can afford a nanny’s tax and National Insurance. ✿ You’re a lower income earner who works part time and would be prepared to share a nanny, splitting the cost and the share between two households. ✿ You work irregular hours or need care early in the morning, or after 6pm at night. You can pay a nanny to work the hours you are away from the house, arranging for her to arrive just before you leave for work. A nursery or child minder cannot offer this flexibility. ✿ You have two or more children. You’ll pay the nanny for her time, not for the number of children she’s looking after, so this will definitely be more economical than a nursery. ✿ You have limited time and require a nanny agency to help you recruit a nanny, providing a shortlist of appropriate nannies for you, and completing the appropriate screening tests. ✿ You have quite rigorous ideas about the food you want your child to eat, and the schedule you want for his or her day. You can

be a lot more prescriptive with a nanny than you can with a nursery or child minder, where your child will have to fit into a pre-existing schedule established by the setting or minder. ✿ You can’t afford to take any time off work if your child is sick. A nanny can look after a sick child. This will be much cheaper than hiring an emergency nanny to fill in if your child is too sick to go to nursery. ✿ You prefer the idea of one-to-one care and a special relationship with a nanny in your own home. ✿ You would like help with laundry and getting your children ready for bed.

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Carla Vecci is a Partner at Brilliant Nannies, a nanny agency based in the Richmond borough and servicing London, Middlesex and Surrey. For more information, visit www.brilliantnannies.co.uk

NANNY VERSUS NANNY/HOUSEKEEPER? By Sarah Cozens

You need a nanny, but what kind? If your children are at school, do you opt for a part-time nanny to keep the costs down, or a full time nanny who can help with housekeeping as well? If you have pre-schoolers, but also need help around the house, will you be compromising the quality of care available to your little ones if you hire a

nanny/housekeeper? Most nannies find that their job description changes as children grow and go to school. They have to adapt to these changes or move on. More and more families are choosing to have a nanny that is prepared to take on extra duties, such as the odd bit of cleaning or cooking for the family, instead of hiring a nanny and a separate cleaner. A nanny who is prepared to be flexible like this usually becomes an essential member of the family and will be likely to stay with them for many years. A nanny/housekeeper might do the family shop, take care of the laundry and ironing, as well as cooking an evening meal for the parents. She would also run errands and be a general PA at home. Alongside these tasks, a nanny/housekeeper would still be responsible for all aspects of childcare and duties related to the children. These would include taking the children to school and after-school clubs, cooking their

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meals, doing their laundry, creating a good social life for them, ensuring that the house is tidy and their homework is done, and that they are ready for their parents to return home at the end of the day. With life becoming increasingly demanding for many parents, there is more and more need for nanny/housekeepers. At the same time, more and more nannies are willing to take on this role to give them the edge at a time when the economic climate remains volatile, and employment options are more limited.

extra

Sarah Cozens owns and runs Nutkin Nannies, a nanny agency based in Chertsey, which sources permanent and temporary, live-in and live-out, day, maternity and night nannies for local families. For further information, visit www.nutkinnannies.co.uk September 2014

. Early Years Care and Education .

KEEPING A GOOD NANNY By Katy Koverova

If your child lights up at the first sight of their new nanny and can’t stop talking about the things she says or does, you have definitely found a carer that your child is going to become attached to – a nanny who has the potential to be part of your lives for some time. Consistent, quality care is important for children and they need to feel safe and secure in the knowledge that a new person in their lives will be sticking around. The last thing you want is for your nanny to decide to move on to another family, just when everybody has grown to love her. This is where you, as parents, have a big role to play.

Deliver What You Promise Firstly, you need to be true to the terms and benefits you offered your nanny as part of her employment package. For this reason, it’s important not to offer more than you can deliver during the interview process. Be clear about how much you can pay, live-in accommodation and furnishings, if relevant, and things like use of the family car. Then make sure you stick to your promises. This will ensure your nanny feels respected from the beginning.

Show Her You Value Her If you value your nanny, you need to show her. This will mean she will be less likely to want to move on. You may want to offer a token of your appreciation at times when she has excelled, give her unplanned time off when you can and remember occasions like her birthday. In doing so, you will also be showing your children that your nanny is a respected and appreciated member of the family “team.” Discuss Problems and Issues Communication is also key. You need to make time to talk to your nanny and listen to her ideas and concerns. At times, she may wish to discuss difficult issues like your child’s behaviour, disciplinary strategies, or even her personal situation, so it’s important to be approachable. Be open, honest and positive – and above all, try not to become defensive. It’s better to try to solve problems creatively, by offering alternative ideas and other options, when appropriate. Again, this approach is more likely to ensure your nanny’s concerns are dealt with and make her feel valued. Create Time for Regular Communication Make sure you have regular sit-downs with your nanny which give you both the opportunity to raise issues of concern and give you a chance to offer praise for areas in which your nanny has excelled. You may also wish to consider annual salary reviews or

bonuses which can provide an excellent incentive for your nanny to stay with you. Ensure Your Children Show Her Respect It’s important to ensure that your children offer your nanny the same level of respect that you do. If you feel they are not paying the attention to her that they should, or not behaving well, you need to deal with this and explain to your nanny that you have done so. However, it’s also important to establish how your children feel about their nanny and make sure they have no underlying issues

with the care they are receiving or their relationship with her that need addressing.

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Katy Koverova is the proprietor of Heart Nannies, an innovative, responsive and professional nanny agency and childcare specialist recruiting and placing nannies in SW London and Surrey. For further information, visit www.heartnannies.co.uk

Need to ﬁnd a nanny? We know hundreds of nannies who’d like to work in and around Kingston. To place your ad contact Kath now

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. Early Years Care and Education .

DAY CARE DILEMMAS

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Lynne Murray is Professor of Developmental Psychology at the University of Reading, and author of The Psychology of Babies: How Relationships Support Development from Birth to Two (Constable & Robinson 2014), in which more information on day care, as well as other aspects of babies’ development, is provided.

ssori Nurs e t e on

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respond to each individual baby’s experience and support them sensitively. Some parents worry that their baby will become more attached to day care staff than to them. There is no evidence of this, and parents are typically their baby’s strongest attachment figures. Nevertheless, close attachments can form between babies and their day carers, especially when the carer is responsive and warm towards the baby. This quality of relationship is beneficial to the baby’s development.

S ry

find separations, as well as changes in routine and stimulation, harder than others. Separation distress may be more marked after around 9 or 10 months old, when babies become more clearly aware of their attachment to their parents, and for this reason some parents prefer to make the transition to day care before then. Some day care settings deal with the stress of separation by encouraging parents to stay with their baby, possibly over the course of some weeks, until the baby settles. If parents feel that their baby is particularly sensitive, and may find the transition to day care difficult, it is advisable to choose a setting which offers this option, so that the baby can become accustomed to the environment and the staff. Where this is possible, it does seem that babies are less stressed by the separation experience. Good settings commonly help babies manage day care by building active links with home. Parents may be encouraged to bring in special toys, blankets or other ‘attachment objects’ and settings may follow the routines that parents use at home, for example, for settling to sleep. Having in place a systems, like ‘day books,’ for passing on information about important events in the baby’s life also help staff

Julia ’s M

Day care is the fastest growing form of child care in the UK and most children experience some kind of formal non-parental care by the age of 2 years. So what effect does day care have on the development of a child? How can parents maximize its benefits and alleviate any difficulties arising? Firstly, any effects of day care on a child’s development are by far outweighed by his or her family influences. Secondly, research concludes overwhelmingly that the effects of day care are very dependent on its quality. Fortunately, in the UK this is generally good. In settings where there is good training and pay, and a high staff-to-baby ratio, day care staff have higher morale and a strong sense of professionalism and motivation, and there is likely to be a low staff turn-over. All these things are linked to staff providing better care and having the skills to provide both good one-to-one care and to manage a group of babies. Where day care is of a high standard, then there is no evidence of harmful effects on children’s development. Indeed, it can positively benefit language and cognitive development, as well as enhance a child’s social maturity and relationships with other children. In spite of the potential benefits, helping a baby adjust to day care is not always easy. Firstly, it is quite common for babies to be upset when their parents leave them. Each baby is an individual, and some just seem to

By Lynne Murray

Small and caring pre-school in Hampton Ages 2 to 5 Teaches Early Years Foundation Stage. Curriculum and Montessori Method. For a prospectus or to visit, call Julia on 020 8335 0666 / 07939 838991 or email juliasmontessori@aol.com September 2014

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. Early Years Care and Education .

FUN OUTDOOR LEARNING WHAT’S NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR AUTUMN! IN CHILDCARE By Carol Whitehouse IN 2014? The importance of outdoor play for young children is well established. It helps children explore, take risks, develop gross motor skills and understand the world around them. As autumn approaches and the nights start drawing in, getting outside becomes a bit more challenging. However, there are still some fun outdoor activities that you can undertake with your children at this time of year. Making a den can be fun in all weathers. As well as repurposing that summer picnic blanket to create a floor, you’ll need a large plastic sheet. String this over some rope between two supporting points, for example, some trees, or make use of objects like a painting easel. Pin the sheet down on either side with some rocks and duck in! You can enhance this experience by bringing in some story books, a bird watching kit or even a picnic. If it is raining, you can talk about the noises the rain makes on the plastic sheet. You can even place pans outside and listen to how the sounds change as they fill up. On fine days,

By Joanna Moorhead

you can create your own noises in your den, by blowing over the tops of bottles, tapping sticks together, or turning your pan into a drum. Venture outside the den and go on a hunt for natural treasures. Encourage your children to look for cones, nuts, conkers, pods and leaves and bring them back to your den. You can have fun talking about what they are, where they come from, their textures, size and weight. If you can find them in varying quantities, you can also talk about numbers. Children will then enjoy creating artwork using the objects. All of these activities, big and small, help promote your child’s development in a fun and exploratory way. Look at everything with ‘fresh’ eyes, release your inner child and enjoy the outdoors whenever you can!

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Carol Whitehouse is the co-proprietor of Buttercups Nursery in Teddington. Buttercups Nursery regularly offers the children in its care the opportunity to enjoy the activities described above, enhancing their communication and language, physical development, understanding of the world, mathematics, creative and critical thinking. For further information, visit www.buttercups-nursery.co.uk

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Childcare is always a political hot potato – and with a General Election looming next year, politicians are saying and doing more about it. Here’s what’s NEW on the childcare horizon. More two-yearolds are now being offered 15 hours of FREE childcare each week, because the eligibility criteria has been expanded. You can find out more information from your local authority’s website, as they have published full details of who is eligible and how to find a place. The Labour Party is promising free universal childcare for all pre-school children in its election manifesto. If elected to power next year, the Labour leadership is likely to make a dramatic announcement about the way childcare will be organised in Britain in the coming years. The new tax-free childcare scheme comes into effect from 2015. Under this new scheme, parents will be able to claim 20% of the cost of their registered childcare up to £1,200 per child per year. Both parents must be working to qualify, or, for single parent families, the single parent must be in employment. Under the Children and Families Bill, which has recently gone through Parliament, Ofsted has been made ‘the sole arbiter of quality.’ This means that local authorities will not be able to impose their own quality conditions on providers offering free places for three and four year olds under the existing scheme, provided these providers are not rated ‘inadequate’ by Ofsted. This may lead to a wider choice of providers but may also mean that local authorities will be able to do less to force childcare providers to improve their services. Organisations offering advice and information on childcare include: www.childcare.co.uk is an online social networking platform for parents, childcare providers and private tutors. The Family and Childcare Trust is a campaigning organisation with a helpful bank of information for parent. www.familyandchildcaretrust.org The Pre-school Learning Alliance is England’s largest early years membership organisation. www.pre-school.org.uk Working Families aims to help parents and carers achieve a work-life balance. More at www.workingfamilies.org.uk

info@activelearningchildcare.co.uk

September 2014

EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2014 Making an Informed Choice

SCHOOLS NEWS NEW HEAD TEACHER FOR STAINES PREPARATORY SCHOOL!

Staines Preparatory School starts this academic year with a new Head Teacher. Samantha Sawyer (BEd (Hons), NPQH) joins the long established, co-educational preparatory school following the retirement of Peter Roberts. Previously Assistant Head Teacher (EYFS-KS3) at The British Embassy School in Ankara, Turkey, Ms Sawyer has taught all stages of preparatory and primary

education in the UK and abroad since 1998. Ms Sawyer was appointed as Head Teacher (Designate) in 2013, and since then has frequently visited the school and met with staff, pupils and parents to ensure the smoothest transition possible. Ms Sawyer will be welcoming visitors to the School’s Open Mornings (details on page 25) which give parents the opportunity to see why Staines Prep has such an excellent reputation for high standards of education, pastoral care and for nurturing pupils who are thoughtful, courteous and considerate of the needs of others.

ATHELSTAN HOUSE EXTENDS BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL CARE PROVISION! Athelstan House School in Hampton prides itself on its outstanding nurturing environment and excellent pastoral care. It has recently announced an extension to the hours of its Breakfast and After School Clubs so that working parents can drop off and pick up children on their way to and from work. Breakfast Club will now open at 7.40am, rather than 8.00am, enabling parents travelling to London Waterloo to catch the 7.50am train from Hampton, knowing that their child will be provided with a healthy, nutritious breakfast in a familiar and

caring environment, with a range of stimulating activities to start their school day. Children using the After School Club facilities can choose from a range of activities including cookery, yoga, Playball, creative movement and science, whilst the later finish time of 6.00pm will give busy parents additional time to collect their children on the way home from work.

For further information, visit www.athelstanhouseschool.co.uk For further information, visit www.stainesprep.co.uk

DOUBLE SCHOLARSHIP SUCCESS FOR THE MALL SCHOOL IN TWICKENHAM

Toby Tolson, 12, has been awarded a double scholarship to Hampton School: one for his academic performance and the second for his artwork. Toby spent two years working on his portfolio for the award, assisted by his art teacher, Fenella Scott. Toby said, “My inspiration was my fascination for cars and so I chose a close-up of a mini on the move. I chose acrylics

to paint the picture, as they are bold and strong, and it took me a term to complete. I am thrilled with the overall effect.” Fenella Scott, Head of Art, said, “Toby is a talented artist and I am immensely proud of what he has achieved. Seven other boys in Toby’s year also achieved scholarships to their senior schools this year including St Paul’s, King’s College, Wimbledon, Hampton School and Whitgift. Over the last five years boys from The Mall have gained 37 awards to senior schools.

For further information, visit www.themallschool.org.uk 16

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OLD MEDAL SUCCESS FOR TWICKENHAM PREP! Twickenham Prep School pupil, Joel Malam, has become the first ever UK winner of an Olympic Mind Lab Gold Medal. Joel, 13, was part of a team of four boys from Twickenham Prep School representing the UK at the Mind Lab Olympics in Budapest in June, where he won the Gold Medal in the Individual event, beating Romania in the final. The Twickenham Prep

School team became National Champions in May and faced tough competition finishing sixth in the group competition, with good wins against Turkey and Panama. Mind Lab is part of the curriculum at Twickenham Prep School and develops excellent strategic thinking.

For further information, visit www.twickenhamprep.co.uk September 2014

ATHELSTAN HOUSE SCHOOL 020 8979 1045 admin@athelstanhouseschool.co.uk 36 Percy Road Hampton Middlesex TW12 2LA

Independent Day School for Girls aged 4–11 and Boys aged 4–13 A caring and happy school, providing an inspiring and creative education amongst first-class facilities. Achieving high academic standards and excellent personal development within a broad curriculum.

Pre-prep Open Morning: Thursday 25th September 9.30-10.30am. Please call to reserve a place.

Beveree, 43 High Street, Hampton, Middlesex TW12 2SA Tel: 020 8979 6216 Email: office@twickenhamprep.co.uk www.twickenhamprep.co.uk

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Saturday 11th October 2014 10 am - 12 noon The Headmaster and staff look forward to meeting prospective families. There is no need to pre-register your attendance.

New state-of-the-art teaching and performance facilities • Nursery provision from rising 3 to 4 years of age • High academic standards and results • 11+ Tuition & Preparation • Multi-functional Hall and Performance Facilities The Mall School 185 Hampton Road, Twickenham TW2 5NQ T: 020 8614 1082 admissions@themallschool.org.uk www.themallschool.org.uk

September 2014

• I.S.I Registered • Large Science, ADT and Music Suites • Extra Curricular Activities • Active Friends’ Association • School bus service • Out of hours childcare

Early registration advisable to avoid disappointment. For assistance with fee planning and other fee information please contact the Bursary. Means-tested bursaries available subject to assessment.

Staines Preparatory School, 3 Gresham Road, Staines, Middlesex. TW18 2BT Please contact the Registrar at Staines Preparatory School, 3 Gresham Road, Staines, Middlesex. TW18 2BT | tel: 01784 450909 | email: registrar @ stainesprep.co.uk website: www.stainesprep.co.uk | Registered charity no: 296691

01784 450909 | www.stainesprep.co.uk www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2014 Making an Informed Choice

TAKE YOUR PANTS OFF YOUR HEAD AND GET DRESSED NOW! Preparing for the challenges of the new school year By Olivia Malaure When I left my daughter at the school gates for the first time, I didn’t cry, Instead, I felt sick at the thought of spending the next 12 years wondering whether she is happy, eating lunch, achieving appropriately and making friends. Whether your child is starting school, moving up a year, or going to a new school, each September brings new challenges and these are often even more daunting for parents than for their children. It helps to be aware of some possible challenges in advance. A major issue for me was the morning routine. The minutes leading up to 8.45am went something like this: 8.00 AM “Please take your pants off of your head and get dressed... NOW!” 8.20 AM “No, you cannot take your breakfast in for ‘show and tell,’ eat it... NOW!” 8.40 AM “Shoes on... NOW!” 8.45 AM “We’re late, again.

We’re leaving... NOW!” I’d love to say I got the hang of it - but I didn’t. It gradually got better as my daughter got older, or perhaps I just got used to it! I spoke to some local parents about how they dealt with their children starting school and with some of the big transitions in school life. “Get some good clothing labels and Label EVERYTHING’ laughs Claire Brown, mum of a 6 year old boy. She reflects “When they start school, you lose control. You’re not calling the shots anymore. I discovered the best way of finding out what’s going on is to offer to help in class with reading and other classroom activities.” First experiences of the playground can be overwhelming for children and dining halls are often noisy and chaotic. Lara Cole says “If your child is having school dinners it’s useful to go through the menu in advance and help them choose what

they’re going to eat.” Mum of three hungry children, Rachael Newsome suggests “They’ll need big breakfasts and slow-burning calories like porridge, to sustain them until lunchtime. My son has two breakfasts, one when he first gets up, and then a banana or piece of toast just before we leave the house.”

his reading books and handing in his homework.” Teacher and parent Louise Gill spoke about how her son’s school assisted with the transition from infant to junior school.“Children were partnered with a buddy from Year 6 and that really helped. They were given ‘passports’ into junior school along

First experiences of the playground can be overwhelming for children and dining halls are often noisy and chaotic.

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Dad of two, Aaron Ward reflects “I’m invariably rushing to do school pick-up straight from work but will ALWAYS take a snack for the kids as they’re usually starving. It was such a fuss getting them home from school until I figured out it was because they were hungry.” Many parents suggested keeping playdates to a minimum when your child starts school.“For the first six months my twins were knackered and I swiftly put play dates on hold. They just couldn’t cope with the exhaustion” says Claire Westwood. The transition from Year 2 to Year 3 can involve adapting to a new site or getting used to an entirely new school. Most schools allow children to spend time in their new environment the previous term, including having lunch there. Sarah Young says “The biggest difference between Year 2 and Year 3 was the homework. At Infant School my son was encouraged to read with me every night, but, at Junior School, it was expected and he needed to be responsible for remembering things like changing

with maps and pictures of staff and teachers.” So what did Louise find most challenging about the transition? “My eldest son had to start walking by himself from the junior school to the infant school where I waited to pick up my younger child. He walks over with his other mates with younger siblings. It’s another step towards independence, but it took a while for me to get used to it. It’s the realisation they’re growing up!” Whatever stage your child is at this September, I wish you good luck! And before you leave for the school run, just check you’ve changed out of your slippers!

September 2014

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PREP SCHOOL EDUCATION UNTIL AGE 13 - THE BENEFITS FOR BOYS EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2014 Making an Informed Choice

Jane Tosetti talks to Year 8 students at Newland House School in Twickenham

Choosing a prep school for your child is a daunting prospect. For parents of boys, a good starting point is to consider whether the prep schools on your shortlist advocate and provide an entry route to senior schools at age 13, via the 13+ examination, rather than at age 11. Leaving prep school at age 13, at the end of Year 8, is a very different proposition to leaving at the end of Year 6 (which is the standard leaving point for girls), and offers boys a wealth of opportunities. The difference in maturity and capability of boys between 11 and 13 is significant and boys benefit tremendously from spending Years 7 and 8 in classes of a smaller size. The extra attention and specialist teaching they receive at this time stretches and challenges them academically, as well as allowing each to develop at his own pace. “I received lots of attention from my teacher and my work improved” comments Luka, whilst Christopher observes “the amount of knowledge gained

environment in which boys can make mistakes and enjoy the fun and spirit of childhood a little longer, rather than be influenced by the behaviours and attitudes of adolescents. By age 13, boys are ready to move on emotionally, psychologically, and cognitively and are equipped with the tools and skills to face the challenge of the senior school with confidence. “My last few years have taught me lessons that can help at my future school but also in everyday life” concludes Joshua. For further information on Newland House School, visit www.newlandhouse.net

between Year 6 and Year 8 is incredible.” Boys’ talents and abilities become more identifiable as they mature and this means that the extra years at prep school can open up more senior school scholarship opportunities in all subjects, including Sport, Music, Art, Drama and Design Technology. Joshua comments “I gained valuable knowledge which helped me get a place at my chosen senior school. The additional

guidance and support received by boys in Years 7 and 8 in prep schools assists them in becoming well-rounded, motivated individuals with strong social skills. It equips them expertly for the transition to senior schools. They have time to develop confidence and self-esteem, which is especially important for later developers, and they have the opportunity to enjoy seniority and leadership roles within the school community, becoming role models for younger pupils. “I enjoyed the additional responsibility of being Head boy” says Edward. The prep school offers a safe www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk

Claremont Fan Court School

An independent co-educational school for pupils aged 2½ to 18 years

Open Mornings Whole School - 10.00am - 12.30pm Introductory talk at 10.00am Saturday 20 September Saturday 11 October Sixth Form Open Evening Monday 29 September at 6.00pm

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Prospective families are very welcome to attend. For further information please telephone 01372 473624 or email info@claremont.surrey.sch.uk

our exceptional independent school for boys and girls

OPEN MORNING SATURDAY 4th OCTOBER 11.00-1.00 For full list of open mornings, enrolment and fee details contact 020 7228 3933 Thames Christian College, Wye Street, London SW11 2HB

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www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

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Tolworth Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; School & Sixth Form A Secondary School for girls aged 11-18 and boys 16-18

Open Evening Sixth Form Thursday 9th October 2014 6.00 to 8.30pm

Open Evening Wednesday 15th October 2014 6.00 to 8.30pm

Open Weeks

Monday 13th to Thursday 23rd October 2014

Please phone to book a tour on 020 8739 1374

Fullers Way North, Surbiton, Surrey, KT6 7LQ Tel: 020 8397 3854 Web: www.tolworthgirlsschool.co.uk Email: tolworthgirls@tgs.rbksch.org

EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2014 Making an Informed Choice

SCHOOLS NEWS SURBITON HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL SPEAKS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF SPORT IN EDUCATION Ann Haydon, Principal of Surbiton High School spoke on the subject of sport at this year’s The Times Festival of Education, exploring whether sport is just about excellence, or whether it can boost all-round performance. Ann Haydon and Surbiton High School believe that the value of sport in education cannot be underestimated. Surbiton High School has a very clear goal – Sport for All, coupled with the Pursuit of Excellence. The School believes

that pupils regularly competing in sport carry the commitment, self-discipline, resilience and hard work required on the sports pitch or court into the examination hall, thus benefitting their academic studies. The School’s vision combines regular participation in sport with a professional approach to generating elite sporting performance, ensuring that pupils can ‘be the best they can be.’

HALLIFORD ENDS THE TERM IN STYLE!

With examinations over, pupils from Halliford School in Shepperton embarked upon a variety of different adventures at the end of the summer term. The German linguists headed for Schleswig Holstein to stay with families and sharpen up their language skills. The jazz band went on a concert tour to New York before returning to put on two ‘Swing Nights’ at the Wharfe in Teddington. Year 7 undertook their annual visit to Boulogne and Year 12 spent two

days on the annual leadership course before starting to prepare their university applications. Meanwhile Year 8 and Year 9 each went on an adventure camp before taking part in a program of Business Enterprise training. Concurrenlty, Year 10 was on work experience! The whole School finally all came together on Sports Day for a wonderful day of athletic competition, before heading off for the summer holidays.

For further information, visit www.hallifordschool.co.uk For further information, visit www.surbitonhigh.com

NEWLAND HOUSE CHOIR SINGS IN SALZBURG!

The Newland House School Choir played at some magnificent venues during its five day tour of Austria in June, including Salzburg Cathedral and the Church of St. Michael in Mondsee, where the wedding scene in the Sound of Music was shot. The Choir was composed of forty choristers and rehearsed for two terms to ensure that its performance was pitch perfect. Its four concerts were bill boarded across Salzberg and the pupils really appreciated

being able to perform in such special surroundings, with full audiences, including parents who had travelled independently to Austria to see them perform first-hand. The children also managed to squeeze in plenty of sightseeing and some relaxation. The Tour was an incredible experience for the pupils and a credit to the inspiration of Newland House Director of Music, Mr Sam Gosden, who joined the school at the start of the last academic year.

For more information, visit www.newlandhouse.net 22

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

DENMEAD SCHOOL TAKES THE FLOOR! The second half of the academic year at Denmead School in Hampton passed in a flurry of industry with children exhibiting talents in a multitude of areas. In Performing Arts, Senior Prep pupils performed Rats, a lively and colourful production, whilst Years 3 and 4 were equally enthusiastic in their production of The Starfish Centre Prize. Both plays were supported by short concerts performed by the School’s developing musicians. The culmination of the year’s work for Pre-Prep was the Summer Concert on the penultimate morning of term, involving all the children from Kindergarten to Year 2 in some

very ambitious performances which they managed with great aplomb and obvious pleasure! Year 5 and Year 6 enjoyed exhilarating residential trips to Weymouth and Pembrokeshire respectively, both providing tremendous team building and individual challenges. Year 6 also experienced an extensive program of co-curricular workshops including cooking, self-defence and citizenship.

For further information, visit www.denmeadschool.org.uk September 2014

HALLIFORD SCHOOL - SHEPPERTON Independent school for boys 11-18 and girls 16-18 Set in six acres close to the River Thames

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Saturday 4th October 2014

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t: 020 8865 1305 e: admissions@newlandhouse.net www.newlandhouse.net Newland House School, Waldegrave Park, Twickenham TW1 4TQ

September 2014

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2014 Making an Informed Choice

INDEPENDENT OR STATE? Olivia Malaure talks to Frances Delaney, a local parent whose child has experienced both types of school.

If you are fortunate enough to be able to choose where your child will go to school, then it might help to look at the bigger picture and leap forward twelve years. Recent statistics show that students from state schools out-perform students from independent (private) schools at university. However, before you allocate your tuition fees to more leisurely pursuits, consider that these statistics also show that students from independent schools are more likely to gain a place at university in the first place. Right now, the idea of your young child reaching university age may seem unimaginable, but it pays to do your research early. And, when you do, it’s hard to ignore the fiery discussion about the moral, financial and practical issues that catapult from any search engine as you try to weigh up the ‘pros and cons’ of state versus independent education.

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I spoke to Frances Delaney, a local parent who made the decision to move her daughter from a state to an independent school at the beginning of Year 6. Why did you make this change? Firstly, I wasn’t confident that my daughter would get into our preferred, local state school. Secondly, I wanted her to attend a school with an integrated sixth form, rather than transition to a large college. Lastly, my daughter’s teacher, who I really respected, suggested she was playing up in class, possibly bored, and that in Year 5, along with a number of children, she’d reached Year 6 grades. I wanted my child to reach her full potential but her teacher couldn’t help further as her priority had to be improving the grades of those children who were under-performing.

between a good local state school and a private school? Look at the environment in which your child thrives and explore how they learn. Think about how they would deal with regular tests and exams. If they are at senior school level, find out what subjects are on offer in the sixth form, and if they are in line with your child’s interests. Some state schools offer a wider variety of subjects than some smaller private schools with limited resources. The advantage of an independent primary school is that you are training your child for the private system and this training has its advantages. In my opinion the kids who are attending independent schools are not better or brighter, just more prepared.

Looking back, do you feel you made the right decision? That’s a difficult question and I don’t have a definitive answer. She is happy and confident and doing well at school, so that is very positive. She is still in touch with her friends from state school and it seems they’re also happy and doing well. Has your daughter experienced more academic pressure at her new school? Yes, and the pressure comes from both parents and the school. But, truthfully, I’m paying to ensure that she reaches her full potential and so pressure is part of that. My daughter thrives in that type of environment but I can see that it could be stressful for children who aren’t meeting expectations, or who excel in a particular subject area rather than being an academic allrounder. At my daughter’s school, there is not an automatic entry into the sixth form so there is constant discussion about what she can achieve. Do you have any advice for parents who are having difficulty making a decision

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

September 2014

OPEN DAY LISTINGS AUTUMN TERM 2014 ATHELSTAN HOUSE SCHOOL Friday, 10 October 9.30am to 11.30am Friday, 5 December 9.30am to 11.30am CLAREMONT FAN COURT SCHOOL Whole School Saturday, 20 September 10.00am to 12.30pm Saturday, 11 October Introductory Talk at 10.00am Sixth Form Open Evening Monday, 29 September 6.00pm DENMEAD SCHOOL Friday, 10 October Pre-Prep Department 9.15am to 11.00am Prep Department 10.00am to 12.00pm FALCONS SCHOOL FOR BOYS Pre Prep (Chiswick site) Saturday 27 September 10.30am to 12.30pm Prep (Richmond site) Saturday 4 October 10.30am to 12.30pm HALLIFORD SCHOOL Open Morning Saturday, 4 October 10.00am to 12.00pm Sixth Form Open Evening Wednesday, 8 October 6.30pm to 8.30pm Open Days Thursday 13 November Tuesday 18 November Tours at 9.30am and 11.30am by appointment JACK AND JILL SCHOOL Saturday, 27 September 10.00am to 12.00pm MANOR HOUSE SCHOOL Saturday, 18 October 10.00am Call or email to secure a place. NEWLAND HOUSE SCHOOL Prep School Welcome Events Wednesday, 24 September 2.00pm to 3.30pm Friday, 7 November 9.30am to 11.00am Wednesday, 10 December 2.00pm to 3.30pm Pre-Prep Welcome Events Visits are welcome most Mondays and Wednesdays during term time. For all Welcome Events, please call to confirm your place or to arrange an individual visit to see the school.

NOTRE DAME SCHOOL Saturday, 4 October Tuesday, 11 November Sixth Form Open Evening Tuesday, 23 September Please check website for times. STAINES PREPARATORY SCHOOL Saturday, 11 October Wednesday, 15 October SURBITON HIGH SCHOOL Junior Girls Monday, 15 September Tuesday, 7 October Wednesday, 5 November Boys Prep Tuesday, 30 September Wednesday, 15 October Friday, 14 November Senior Girls Friday, 12 September Tuesday, 16 September Thursday, 25 September Wednesday, 1 October Friday, 10 October THAMES CHRISTIAN COLLEGE Thursday, 25 September Saturday, 4 October Wednesday, 8 October Thursday, 6 November THE MALL SCHOOL Saturday, 11 October TOLWORTH GIRLS SCHOOL Wednesday, 15 October Sixth Form Open Evening Thursday, 9 October Open Weeks Week beginning 13 October Mon-Thurs 20-23 October Please call the school to book an Open Week tour. TWICKENHAM PREP SCHOOL Pre-Prep Thursday, 25 September Please call to reserve a place.

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EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2014 Making an Informed Choice

SCHOOLS NEWS KING’S HOUSE SCHOOL SUPPORTS EDUCATION IN RWANDA

On the shores of Lake Kivu, in the south west of Rwanda, is the isolated and impoverished province of Cyangugu. Here, Neville Chaplin, former Head of King’s House School in Richmond, has been supporting his brother David in his work for Rwanda Aid, a charity raising money to help develop, extend and maintain practical

self-help and sustainable projects to benefit poor communities. An ex-King’s House family provided the funds for the building of a school at Cyato and, because of this connection, King’s House School, Cyato was born. In recent years a number of staff have visited Cyato to assist with the training of teachers and to meet the children. Money is raised by pupils of King’s House to provide resources for their sister school and other projects in the area. Funds have also been raised for the building of a street children’s village and a disabled children’s centre.

For further information, visit www.kingshouseschool.org

FALCONS SCHOOL FOR BOYS CELEBRATES THE ARTS!

Children, parents and invited guests recently enjoyed a celebration of the Arts at the Falcons School for Boys in Richmond. A wet and grey evening exploded into colour, music and poetical performances, all presented by boys ages 3 to 13. Guest of honour, Mr Brian Love from the Poppy Factory in Richmond, unveiled and dedicated a magnificent World

War One Centenary playground mural created by the boys. With the sound of The Last Post and The Rouse played by two Falcons boys echoing through the corridors, hundreds gathered around the mural and listened to moving speeches and a haunting performance by Year 7 boys of Private Peaceful by Michael Morpurgo. As well as displaying their artistic and creative talents, the Falcons boys raised over £2000 in a silent auction held for canvasses they had painted. The Poppy Factory and Wherever The Need, Sierra Leone will receive generous donations.

For more information, visit www.falconschool.com 26

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

CLAREMONT FAN COURT PRE-PREP SCHOOL GOES ON A BEAR HUNT!

The 100 acres of parkland at Claremont Fan Court School in Esher make learning about the natural world easy. Education outside the

classroom recently involved Pre-Prep children in creating a mini-beast mansion made from recycled materials, which now attracts a wide variety of insects. Outdoor learning is also enhanced by a feeding station and nest box with camera to observe species of birds. Children recently enjoyed a Claremont-style “bear hunt” assembly with songs and rhyme, based on the well-known picture book. This was followed by a trek into the woods, taking in the pond, Claremont Mansion and the Belvedere Tower, with ‘stumble trips’ and many ‘overs’ and ‘unders.’ The adventure finished with a mad dash back to school for play time! Despite finding rabbits, ducklings, squirrels and the school cat, strangely there was no sign of any bear. Maybe next time!

For further information, visit www.claremont-school.co.uk

THAMES CHRISTIAN COLLEGE PERFORMS A THOROUGHLY ENJOYABLE SHOW To provide the whole school with the opportunity to explore drama, dance and language subjects to the fullest, pupils at Thames Christian College recently took to the stage to perform the 1920s musical comedy Thoroughly Modern Millie. The show combined the talents of over 90 pupils both on stage and behind the scenes. In addition to drama and singing performances, the production gave pupils the chance to practise their language skills in Mandarin and to explore many different styles of dance including tap, Charleston and Foxtrot. Charis Crudgington, Year 10, who took on the challenging lead role of Millie, comments “Performing as Millie has been an amazing experience and great preparation for a future career in dance and the Trinity Laban Conservatoire musical theatre. I feel one step closer of Music and Dance in Greenwich to pursuing my dream of attending next year.” For further information, visit www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk September 2014

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EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2014 Making an Informed Choice

SCHOOLS NEWS TOLWORTH GIRLS’ SCHOOL PUPIL JOINS JACQUELINE WILSON FOR TEA

Dana Hargrave, a pupil at Tolworth Girls’ School in Kingston, recently tested her budding creative writing skills by entering a local short story writing competition – and found herself a winner! The competition involved writing a story based on the tale of Hetty Feather by award-winning

children’s author Jacqueline Wilson. Dana’s short story ‘Freak’ was one of two prize-winning stories. Part of the prize was a celebratory tea with Jacqueline Wilson herself and the other competition winner, Francesca Tynan. Dana also won a pair of tickets each to see Hetty Feather on stage at The Rose Theatre and a signed copy of Jacqueline’s latest book Paws and Whiskers presented by the author herself. Dana was very excited about seeing Hetty Feather and was totally engrossed as Jacqueline chatted with her and Francesca about how the book had been adapted for the stage.

For further information, visit www.tolworthgirlsschool.co.uk

P ROMOT IO N ! SPE CI A L OF F E R ! LEARN TO READ IN 5 WEEKS FOR FREE* WITH THE READING EGGS GREAT LITERACY CHALLENGE! This September, your child can join thousands of others taking part in the Reading Eggs Great Literacy Challenge, a nationwide effort to inspire children to read! This FREE event will give the children of new customers 5 weeks FREE access* to Reading Eggs, the online reading programme that teaches children literacy skills. Readings Eggs provides a comprehensive range of online reading lessons and eBooks that teach children ages 3–13 the literacy skills needed for lifetime

Notre Dame School in Cobham entered two age group teams in the annual, National Catholic Athletics event. The Prep girls entered an U12 Team and the Senior School entered a combined Year 7 and 8 U14 Team. Notre Dame won the U14 girls cup, was placed second in the U12 age group and saw off many top schools to win the overall Girls’ Cup. Both cups were also won by Notre Dame last year. It was an excellent team performance and some personal best performances

were achieved by many of the School’s athletes. Pippa Earley won best overall U14 girl with three new records in Hurdles, Long Jump and 200m, whilst first places went to the U14 relay team and to individual girls for 1500m, Shot Put and Discus. The U12 girls finished second in the team competition, only five points behind the winning school with Jessica McNally taking first place for High Jump.

For further information, visit www.notredame.co.uk

CHITTY-CHITTY-BANG-BANG AT MANOR HOUSE SCHOOL!

reading success. The program makes learning phonics and basic reading skills fun, which is why over 90% of parents using Reading Eggs report a noticeable improvement in their child’s reading skills. The lesson content and format include a core reading curriculum of phonics and sight words which support school learning, as well as skills and strategies essential for sustained reading success.

Sign up for your FREE trial* today by registering at www.readingeggs.co.uk/uthames *Free trial only available for new customers who sign up at the above address. Not applicable for schools. 28

NOTRE DAME SCHOOL RETAINS THE NATIONAL CATHOLIC ATHLETICS TITLE!

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The Junior School at Manor House School in Little Bookham played to a packed house during its recent production of Chitty-Chitty-Bang-Bang. Year 6 played the main parts, including Jeremy and Jemima Potts, the Toymaker and Truly Scrumptious, with Years 3 to 5 also involved in the production. The production was directed and choreographed by former West End stars, Adrian Edmeades and Lucy Holloway, both of whom are part of the Drama Department at the School and were in the

original West End production of Chitty-Chitty-Bang-Bang. They inspired, the children to give breath-taking performances - and made a car almost fly! An 18 piece band, which included Senior girls from Years 7 to 10, supported the production, whilst Year 10 and 11 students managed back stage, lighting and sound. The all-inclusivity of the drama productions at Manor House is one of the benefits of a “through” school, with its opportunities for younger and older girls to work together.

For further information, visit www.manorhouseschool.org September 2014

JACK AND JILL SCHOOL “A tradition of excellence”

We make the academic difference by being small enough to know all our girls individually

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Years 1&2 30 Nightingale Road, Hampton, TW12 3HX.

Committed to the highest standards of academic excellence in a warm and happy environment. Excellent destination results at 7+. ASA awards for swimming. LAMDA speech and language awards. Recognising each member of the school community as unique, with talents to develop and valuable contributions to make. Promoting integrity, kindness and respect for others.

OPEN MORNING Saturday 18th October – 10.00am Please contact us to reserve a place

Entry to our Nursery from age 2. Girls only entry into Reception from age 4. Extended care with our staff from 8am – 6pm throughout the year.

An independent day school for girls aged 2–16 Manor House School, Manor House Lane, Little Bookham, Leatherhead, Surrey KT23 4EN

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EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2014 Making an Informed Choice

Olivia Malaure talks to local parent, Karelle Bird, about managing being a mum and studying for a new career. Amidst the pressures of family life and studying for her final exam, local mum of two children, Karelle Bird, took time out of her busy schedule to tell me about her experience of changing careers. Prior to having children, Karelle was a PA and also ran a small gardening business, but, post-children, she has opted for something entirely different. “Last August my mind started gravitating towards the idea of massage. My husband is a Sports Cameraman and spends long hours with a camera on his

shoulder. He was instrumental in my decision to pursue the idea of sports massage therapy. After a long shift behind camera, I’d help him out with a massage. He suggested I was really good at it and should pursue it. The light just came on and this career option seemed to tick all the boxes.” Just a few days later Karelle had signed up to a massage course at St Mary’s University in Twickenham, and as she approaches the end of her course and a full year of study, Karelle is buzzing with energy and enthusiasm. “Studying at St Mary’s has been amazing. They are genuinely flexible and understand the balance

between studying and managing a household. I was even allowed to sit my exam later to fit around my family commitments. There’s a wonderful atmosphere and real sense of focus on campus - it makes you want to learn.” I ask Karelle what it takes to make it all work. She quickly responds. “When you re-train and also have a family to look after, you use whatever skills you have to make it work.

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Time management and good organisational skills are essential and my previous career prepared me well in these areas.” Karelle exudes a real sense of admiration for her tutors.“One of my tutors is also a practicing cardiac nurse, another is a PE instructor - the staff are really dynamic with ‘real world’ industry experience” she reports.“I started on the massage course and before I had even finished, my tutors recognised that I had potential to do well on the sports massage course, which I then enrolled in too. The tutors really care about their subjects.” For Karelle, the most challenging part of re-training is finding quiet time to study. “There have been occasions when I’ve started the day at 3am so I can study, and I’m constantly switching between my role as a parent and my role as a student, and wanting to be the best in both. But I love what I’m doing. I’m definitely experiencing personal growth but I’m also feeling rejuvenated.”

St Mary’s University in Twickenham offers short courses in body massage, sports massage, reflexology, aromatherapy, nutrition, fitness instruction and personal training. Courses run in the evenings, during the day and at weekends, to suit all needs. For further information, visit www.smuc.ac.uk/short-courses

MAKING THE MOST OF ‘ME TIME’ WITH SURREY ADULT LEARNING! As parents, we all lead busy lives and “me-time” can fall to the bottom of our list of priorities. But making time

for ourselves is important and it can sometimes be easier to achieve by planning a structured activity about which we feel particularly enthusiastic. So, at the start of a new academic year, consider how you’d really like to use the little spare time you have. What would inspire you to turn off the television, get up off the couch and out of the house? Would you like to re-vitalise an old interest, something you loved pre-children, but let go of some time ago? Have you always wanted to learn a particular skill? Just because you have kids doesn’t mean that you can’t use the limited time you have to improve your skills and abilities and the quality of your life. Perhaps you are an aspiring bread maker or cake decorator? Or maybe when you watch Strictly Come Dancing, you think how great it would be to learn Salsa or Ballroom dancing. Or what about giving time to creative expression by taking an art class? If you are looking for inspiration, take a look at the amazing range of courses offered by Surrey Adult Learning. From September

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

2014, Surrey Adult Learning is offering 2000 courses across north and south west Surrey, including in Esher, Molesey and Sunbury. All its courses are run by professional and experienced tutors in a relaxed and friendly environment. There is sure to be something to inspire you! For more information visit www.surreycc.gov.uk/adultlearning September 2014

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RETURNSHIPS HELP PARENTS RETURN TO THE WORKFORCE By Linda Stone, Editor

Women wanting to get back onto the corporate ladder after time out having children are often held back because of the gaping hole in their CVs - something employers see as a big risk. The answer may lie in returnships. These offer mothers (and men who have taken career breaks) the chance to re-enter the office — paid — for a set period, with the possibility of a job at the end. Recently Credit Suisse launched a pilot scheme in London, the first of its kind and size in the UK.16 women took part over 10 weeks and each had had between 2 and 10 years out of the industry. They received professional pay, were fully immersed back into a job and mentored September 2014

by a senior member of staff. Each completed a short-term assignment, received training and help with networking and other skills. Fellow investment bank Morgan Stanley will launch a similar scheme in the UK this month. Julianne Miles, co-founder of Women Returners, an organisation that helps professional women who’ve had a prolonged hiatus in their careers says “These schemes are a useful test for both sides. The organisation is testing participants and the question for women is, ‘Is this what I want?’

A Flexible Career around your Family train to be a complementary therapist

Courses in Body Massage, Sports Massage, Reflexology, Nutrition and Personal Training. Courses run in the evening, weekend or during the week to suit all circumstances. Courses start this September and October – see the website for full details. shortcourses@smuc.ac.uk 020 8240 4321 www.smuc.ac.uk/short-courses

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

☛

THE HIDDEN SECRETS OF HILLCROFT COLLEGE EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2014 Making an Informed Choice

Olivia Malaure visits Surbiton to unveil them

“When I was at school, the teachers told me I would never make anything of myself. It was only when I discovered Hillcroft College that things changed. The staff and tutors were exceptional and supported me through their Access Course. I have gone on to successfully complete my degree at St Mary’s University.” Odette Inspirational stories like Odette’s decorate the corridors of Hillcroft College in Surbiton, a National Residential College that offers study opportunities for women with the courage and determination to improve their lives. The work done by Hillcroft deserves to be shouted loud and clear from the leafy hill top location near the station, where it proudly sits. A variety of courses are on offer at the College, with residential and non-residential options, including pre-access to higher education. The curriculum also includes courses to improve employment prospects and

weekend programs offering business skills. Hillcroft’s newest courses include Start Ups in Stilettos, a Social Media Residential Boot Camp with Apprentice star and social entrepreneur, Melody Hossaini. All courses and programs are solely for women. On-site childcare and plenty of outdoor space make Hillcroft College an ideal place for women to safely put aside their personal circumstances and focus on becoming the people they would like to be. Courses are free for those

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on means tested benefits including accommodation and childcare, and there are also several affordable options for those who do not meet the eligibility requirements. With a mission to “empower women through education,” Hillcroft offers support for all types of learners, and provides strategies for students with dyspraxia and dyslexia. Since 1920 Hillcroft has been helping women change their lives through education. The Gables, the former Estate of the wealthy

✒ ADULT

EDUCATION Wilberforce Bryant, of Bryant and May Matches, became the new home of Hillcroft in 1926, thanks to support from philanthropist Thomas Wall. Thomas wanted women to access education so they could use it to escape the exploitation and poverty inflicted upon them by an indifferent society. Women from many different backgrounds connect here through a willingness to learn. I asked Principal, Michael Wheeler, if there was something in particular that the diverse group of women who study at Hillcroft College have in common. He replied “Every woman who comes here wants to be successful and to come out of the shadows. Mums want to show their kids what they can aim for.” Long corridors lead to light-filled rooms and quiet study areas. The building itself has a confidence about it, and makes you feel that education is important. It’s easy to see why women who grab the opportunity to study here leave feeling that THEY are important too.

For more information, visit www.hillcroft.ac.uk

September 2014

autumn days out

 a

Fishy Fun Returns to the Farm!

Hounslow Urban Farm in Feltham will host the 28th Festival of Fishkeeping for the second time on the weekend of 4 and 5 October. Hounslow Urban Farm, one of the UK’s largest community farms, is expert at giving local children a real life experience of a working farm and hosting really fantastic events. So, during the weekend of 4 and 5 October, families will be able to enjoy both the interactive contact with domestic farm animals that the Farm offers, including rare and unusual breeds, as well as the Festival of Fishkeeping – all for the cost of standard entry to the Farm! The Festival of Fishkeeping

is the UK’s biggest display and competition of rare breed, tropical fish and reptiles. It’s a unique and fantastic opportunity to get up close to exotic, weird and wonderful fish and reptiles that can’t be seen elsewhere, all in one place at one time. You certainly don’t have to be nuts about fish to appreciate the splendour of the fish on display, which include Japanese Koi Carp, Discus, Killfish, Jinchu Kai and many more. If the weather is inclement, the undercover, heated environment will ensure comfortable viewing of the very best quality of fish and reptiles in full adult size and prime condition, brought together by fish breeders and hobbyists from around the country. Activities and events will include the best in family entertainment including children’s animal encounters, bouncy castle, bird of prey displays, pig and ferret racing, animal feeding, children’s play zones, face painting, art and craft, animal games competitions, activities and demonstrations. New to the line-up this year is The Emprets and Empraws Dog Show to be held on both the 4 and

5 October. Contact Lisa at empretsandempraws@ gmail.com 07585 048406 if you would like to enter your dog in the competition! There’s plenty to keep families occupied for a whole day at a cost of £7.50 for adults, £6 for kids over 2 and £24 for a family of two adults and two children. Children under 2 go FREE!

um ut

FUN

For more information, see page 2 and visit www.hounslowurbanfarm.co.uk or www.fbas.co.uk

WIN! COMPETITION! WIN! WIN Family Tickets to the 28th Festival of Fishkeeping at the Hounslow Urban Farm on 4 and 5 October AND a miniature aquarium for your child’s own fish!

How much do you know about fish?

Test your knowledge by entering our competition at www.familiesuponthames.co.uk click on competitions and answer the following questions: 1 Which came first – fish or dinosaurs? 2 What is the largest member of the fish family? Closing Date: Friday, 26 September (Terms and Conditions Apply)

WIN! WIN! COMPETITION! WIN! WIN! WIN Family Tickets to see Grandad, Me… and Teddy Too at Polka Theatre in Wimbledon! The season runs from 8 October 2014 to 8 February 2015 and tickets will be valid for any performance in October. Someone special is coming to visit... Mia loves her Grandad very much. He lives far away, on the other side of the world, but finally he’s coming to stay and Mia’s excitement is growing. Join Grandad, Mia (and Teddy Too) as they share an unforgettable adventure to wherever their imaginations take them. A heart-warming story that celebrates the special place grandparents have in young

children’s lives. With playful humour and original music, this charminglyobserved show is a magical family treat for all generations. The show is recommended for children ages 2 to 5 years. For performance times and to book tickets, visit www.polkatheatre.com or call 020 8543 4888

IT’S TIME TO BOARD THE WIZARD EXPRESS! 31st OCT - 2nd NOV

To Enter: Go to our website www.familiesuponthames.co.uk click on competitions and answer the following question:

Who is coming to stay with Mia? Closing Date: Friday, 26 September Terms and Conditions Apply.

September 2014

www.watercressline.co.uk www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

classes, clubs activities

World Class Musical Offerings at Ritz Music & Tuition Centre music

By Olivia Malaure

Push open the door of 88 Sheen Road in Richmond, and you enter Ritz Music & Tuition Centre, the atmospheric home of a family of musicians that offers some of the best local music tuition, classes and workshops for children of all ages – and adults too! Proprietor, Simon Taylor, has brought together a talented, inspiring ensemble of world class tutors, amongst them Norda Mullen, Flutist from The Moody Blues. Each is a passionate professional offering exceptional quality tuition. Whatever your musical preference or level of skill, you are in expert hands at Ritz Music and Simon is proud of what Ritz is achieving.”I get excited about bringing people together” he says “The energy generated by each individual tutor’s passions, skills and personality is helping us create something really special.” With a tranquil downstairs studio and four teaching rooms, music classes on offer at Ritz Music cater for every age from pre-schoolers to adults. Tara’s Music Magic offers music

classes for under 5s with unique songs that won’t exhaust you or your child with their hyperactivity. These intimate, interactive classes offer children their first experience of listening, playing and sharing. I went along with my 3 year old to try out Tara’s class and was impressed by its imaginative content and the perfect combination of gentleness and enthusiasm with which it was delivered. The class was sophisticated, yet personal – very much in keeping with the vibe of Ritz Music itself. My daughter discovered her ‘natural rhythm’ in one of Tara’s Piano sessions and I was genuinely surprised to see her quickly grasp the concept of reading music, using the clever ‘dog-bird’ concept in which the keys on the piano have stickers on them to guide small fingers. She also tried out Tara’s Ukulele session – I had to bribe her away with the promise that we’d come back another time. Ritz Music is also home to the Mozo Island Music and Art concept, created by professional musician and expert teacher, James Tucker-Salfield, a highly-experienced, multi-instrumentalist. Check out the Mozo Island website at www.mozoislandmusicschool. blogspot.com and you’ll find a wealth of online resources that support instrument learning for beginners. James holds a Monday afternoon After-School Club and regular holiday workshops at Ritz Music. With 14 years of

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experience teaching privately and in schools James says “Through my own experience, I’ve seen how children thrive and develop a natural curiosity for music when the emphasis is on the learning experience, rather than the result. I teach in a way that encourages my students to want to keep learning.” Meanwhile, Jonathan Goldberg teaches classical guitar in a fun, musically expressive context but focussing on correct posture, note reading and technique from the beginning and Olga Matylda offers singing lessons and vocal tuition. Other musical offerings include a kids’ band, teenage rock band, adult choir, after

school singing club, music theory, and ukulele classes for all ages. I can belt out a tune, but I’m no musical genius, and whilst at Ritz Music, I feel a sharp pang of regret that I never learned to play a musical instrument. But it’s never too late and whilst in the shop, a new customer arrives ready to re-ignite her passion for the piano. It’s exciting to watch the atmosphere at Ritz Music cast its spell over her: she books her first class and leaves in happy anticipation. Ritz Music brings together members of the community following various artistic pursuits and truly offers a unique and special service. It doesn’t just offer music and activity classes – it offers an opportunity for enrichment and belonging and I’ll happily commit to the promise I made to return with my daughter.

For more details on classes and tuition available at Ritz Music, see pages 41 and 42 or visit www.ritzmusic.co.uk

September 2014

classes, clubs activities

Challenging Children to Compete

sport

By Dean Horridge

With over 20 year’s experience as a PE teacher, I’ve seen some surprising sports trends come and go, from cross-country running in the snow to the banning of Sports Day races! Most of these trends are transient but one school of thought which seems hard to shift is that it is wrong to ask children to compete. This idea appears to be supported by some children too, with a survey of 8-16 year olds conducted by Marylebone Cricket Club and Chance to Shine suggesting that the majority of children would be happy to see the competitive element removed from school sport. However, if we want to see children succeed in sport, and even represent our country at international levels, then they must learn how to compete, what it feels like to win, and, more importantly, what it feels like to lose. Children need to be encouraged to push themselves to realise their potential. As long as the goals are realistic, the child is engaged and the support structure is in place to catch them when they fall, there is no harm in this at all. The key to motivating children to do their best is to engage them with sport from an early age. At Fit for Sport and Sport England’s recent primary school program, ‘Engage to Compete,’ children ages 4 to 11 were encouraged to take part and compete in sporting activities and asked afterwards how competition made them feel. The response was overwhelmingly positive with the vast majority of children stating that competition

An active family is a healthy family and this is something to strive for in life. made them feel happy, excited and confident as opposed to nervous, afraid or worried. When asked outright if they liked taking part in competitions, 86% of the children said they did. This indicates to me that once engaged in physical activity, a large majority of children enjoy taking part in competitions. ou can encourage your child to engage in physical activity by being an active family. Children learn so many behaviours from their parents, and the habit of being physically active is no different. Parents have as much responsibility as schools, if not more, to ensure their kids have a good diet, are learning to live a healthy lifestyle, and are engaging in fun, physical activity in the family unit. An active family is a healthy family and this is something to strive for in life.

SPringboard SWimmerS Private swimming lessons for the october half-term

booK noW

for half-term holiday courses

Call us on 020 8255 7455

or email admin@springboardswimmers.com

www.springboardswimmers.com

If you haven’t done a holiday course before, you will be amazed at how much progress is made in only one week! Suitable for: non-swimmers and beginners from 3 years of age, children needing stroke improvement. Where: Stanley Primary School, Teddington. This is an indoor, heated pool of constant 1m depth. CoSt: £57.50 per child per week; this gives you 5 x 30 minute lessons at the same time every day of the course with the same tutor and in the same group of 3 children.

extra Dean Horridge is CEO of Fit for Sport. For more information, visit www.fitforsport.co.uk

www.littleallsports.co.uk

MULTI-SPORTS FOR PRE-SCHOOL CHILDREN Ages 2-5

Bring2your2child2along2to2our2sessions2to2get them2active2and2fit2in2a2fun2and2friendly environment Structureddactivitiesdanddgames dddddDevelopdhand/eyedcoordination dddddBuilddbalance,dstrength,dagility dddddGaindconfidencedanddself-esteem

Call2Ruth20780620946412or2Lisa2079492917972 for2more2information

We also run term time leSSonS every day from Monday to Saturday; mornings, afternoons, after school and early evening during term time, for all ages and abilities.

Venue 4thdWaltondScottdHut CottimoredLane Walton-on-Thames SURREYdKT12d2BJ Full Public Liability Insurance, DBS checked and First Aid qualified

September 2014

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

& .NEWS.NEWS.NE

classes, clubs activities

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Launches in Cobham and Re-Launches in Twickenham! Well-respected theatre school, Stagecoach Theatre Arts, has recently launched a new school in Cobham under the direction of Emma

Piano Lessons with Margaret Wood Qualified & Experienced Teacher Examinations to Grade 8 Level Theory for all Instruments Walton on Thames Tel: 01932 219767/07857 689396 Email: awood67@fsmail.net

NOW Drama ENROLLING! Musical Theatre Piano & Singing For allDance classes April & September 2013 Award Winning Performing Arts School and Youth Theatre

Now Enrolling for September 2013 Classes for 3 – April 21 years

Twickenham, Hampton Hill & Kingston Youth Theatre & Children’s Agency Summer Schools, LAMDA, ABRSM Exams, Acting and Public Speaking coaching Call Emma 07814 427274 / 07973 900196 info@steponstageacademy.co.uk www.steponstageacademy.co.uk

Music & Tuition Centre

Music classes & camps in

Sparshatt. Emma launched her own school in Reading in 2003, which now has over 150 pupils, one of whom is currently appearing as Charlie in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory in the West End. “Some children come because they want a career in the theatre and others for fun and to improve communication skills” says Emma. “I see a difference in the pupils in the first term they attend and so do parents and school teachers. We have a superb team at Cobham and the teaching standards and classes are first class.” Cobham classes take place after school on Fridays and join those North Surrey classes already available in Hinchley Wood, Walton, Weybridge, Staines and Chertsey. Stagecoach Theatre Arts in Twickenham starts the school year with a new owner, local parent and long-standing actress, Sarah Chitty. Sarah brings with her a wealth of experience and a passion for performance, as well as a huge network of industry-professionals

including West End performers, agents and casting directors. “If I can pass on to children a bit of my knowledge, experience and inspiration, I will be arming them with excellent skills to take forward into their everyday lives” she comments. Stagecoach offers classes for children ages 4 to 18 in the boroughs of Richmond, Kingston, Hounslow and in North Surrey. For further information, see page 40 or visit www.stagecoach.co.uk

New Jo Jingles Classes in North Surrey! Viv Hunt has just launched popular pre-school music franchise, Jo Jingles in Cobham, Chessington, Epsom and Fetcham. Jo Jingles has been a leading provider of music for pre-schoolers for over 15 years, teaching children to play percussion instruments expressively, sing songs and move and dance to different rhythms. Viv, an experienced Jo Jingles class teacher, is passionate about bringing music and instrument playing to young children and babies in an interactive way. “Our age-specific classes are tailor-made to engage even our youngest members” says Viv. “Parents have great fun watching their little ones progress and learn new skills.” Jo Jingles classes offer dedicated music

time, encouraging speech and language development and hand-eye co-ordination, creating confidence, learning social skills and encouraging new friendships. Classes are 45 minutes in length and each child plays 2 percussion instruments per week. A FREE Trial is available. For further information, see page 41 or visit www.jojingles.com/epsom2leatherhead

Richmond 3-5yrs & 6-9yrs

Tara’s Ukulele Groups

Pre-sch & After-sch: Thursdays

Award winning classes from newborn to 5 years

5-10s: Sing, Jam, Play in a band

Mozo Island: Music/Art

Gymboree Walton on Thames

Club:Mondays/Camp:Oct 27-31

01932 221 371

5-18s: Vocal Tuition & Workshops

waltononthames@gymboree-uk.com

Upgrade your Voice

Gymboree Surbiton

Mon-Sat: with Olga

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

ion iat

with K on fd

2013 winner!

‘Best national pre-schooler development activity’

w .w h

020 3609 8007

surbiton@gymboree-uk.com

Gymboree St Margarets 020 8607 9995

stmargarets@gymboree-uk.com .u k

ritzmusic.co.uk

Sensory Baby Play, Play & Learn, Music, Art & Parties!

020 83321488 88 Sheen Rd, TW9 1UF

5-14yrs Ritz Kids Choir: Saturdays 10.45am

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ce en

…Also... 7-12yrs Ritz Kids Band: Fridays 7pm Instrument Hire, 121 & Group Lessons

Book a FREE trial class today!

.co es ats o n 4 li t t l e o n

gymboree-uk.com

September 2014

W S . N E W S . N E W S . Gymboree Moves from West Byfleet to Walton!

Award-winning pre-school and baby development class provider, Gymboree, has moved from West Byfleet to new premises in Walton on Thames. It is now located centrally at 12-16 High Street (KT12 1DA), above Burtons, where there is easy access to shopping and parking facilities at The Heart. The new Gymboree premises are bright and spacious with access to a buggy park downstairs and members can enjoy a drink in the Gymboree café, browse in the toy shop with its lovely Gymboree and Melissa and Doug products, feed little ones or just stay for a chat and get to know other mums. Gymboree Walton continues to offer a wide variety of classes for children from 0 to 5 years including Play and Learn and Music and Art classes, and drop-off pre-school classes for children ages 3 to 5. NEW to the curriculum are Play and Learn Family Classes. These can accommodate children of different ages in one class so are ideal if you have more than one child that you’d like to attend.

Gymboree Walton also continues to host high-quality, themed parties, which are now also available on Friday afternoons. Meanwhile, you can meet Gymboree Surbiton at the Surbiton Festival on 27 September, where they will be offering age-specific sessions from 9am to 5pm, including teacher-led play, bubbles, parachute games and more. These sessions are open to members and non-members alike and are the perfect opportunity to find out what Gymboree is all about and take advantage of its feeding, baby change and general play facilities. And, if you live in the Richmond borough, Gymboree St Margarets offers the full range of Gymboree classes too! Gymboree in Walton and Surbiton is open 6 days a week and Gymboree in St Margarets is open 7 days a week! All members enjoy the use of the gym play floor during the Open Gym sessions. Gymboree offers a FREE Trial of all Play and Learn, and Music and Art classes. For more information, see listing on page 39 or visit www.gymboree-uk.com

classes, clubs activities

Perform Drama launches New Theatre School in Staines with £40 DISCOUNT ON FEES! Drama classes are not only fun for kids, they also promote self-confidence, ignite the imagination, help children work together as a team and improve their social skills. Perform Drama School offers weekly drama, dance and singing workshops for children ages 4 to 12 years, which help develop all the above skills, as well as improving co-ordination, communication and concentration skills. Most of all, the classes are fun and include an energetic mix of dances, games and songs. Perform is opening a new school in Staines this month. Classes will be available on Friday afternoons. Take advantage of our exclusive Families offer

– a FREE TRIAL PLUS £40 DISCOUNT ON YOUR CHILD’S FIRST 10 SESSIONS. QUOTE “FAMI011014”. Classes are also available in East Sheen, Kew, Kingston, Isleworth, Mortlake, Richmond, Sunbury, Teddington, Twickenham. For more information, call 0845 400 1284 or visit www.perform.org.uk

Jam with Jim

New

Free Taster

Drop-in

£6 per/sess

10th Sept

Wednesdays

Pre-Sch

9.30-10.15: 1.5yrs - 3yrs 10.30-11.15: 3mths - 1.5yrs

Teddington Jim Tucker Salvation Army Hall 07899 811703 27 Church Rd TW11 mozoisland@gmail.com mozoislandmusicschool.blogspot

Inspiring development sessions with song, instruments & movement September 2014

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

& . . N E W S . N E W S Competition

classes, clubs activities

WIN! COMPETITION WIN! ONE LUCKY WINNER CAN WIN A FULL 6 WEEK TERM OF KIDDIKICKS FOOTBALL CLASSES FOR CHILDREN AGES 18MTHS TO 7 YEARS, IN WEYBRIDGE. Prizes will be accompanied by a FREE Kiddikicks Kit, consisting of a football top and shorts. There will also be two free classes each for 10 runners up, and each runner-up will also win a FREE Kiddikicks Kit. Kiddikicks runs super-fun football classes for young boys and girls in Richmond, Brentford, Teddington, Feltham, Isleworth, Hampton, Kingston and East Molesey. This month, it launches classes in Weybridge on Saturdays. (For further information on Weybridge classes, visit www.nwsurrey. kiddikicks.co.uk/timetable and click on Weybridge.)

Classes are age-appropriate. Nippers is for children ages 18mths to 2.5 years, Runners is for children ages 2.6 years to 3.5 years, Racers is for 3.6 years to 5 years and Over 5s is for 5 and 6 year olds. For further information, visit www.kiddikicks.co.uk

To Enter: Go to our website at www.familiesuponthames.co.uk, click on competitions and answer the following question: What is the name of the Kiddikicks classes for children age 3.6 to 5 years? Closing Date: Tuesday, 30 September 2014. Terms and Conditions Apply

Rugbytots Launches New Classes in Richmond and Hunts for New Instructors!

Weekly pre-school rugby-based play program, Rugbytots, launches in Richmond this month, with a FREE taster session on 6 September. With classes already established in Twickenham, Barnes, Putney and Surbiton, Rugbytots is planning to continue its expansion. To accommodate its plans, it is looking for instructors to teach new classes. Whilst instructors ideally need a rugby coaching qualification,

equally important is the ability to communicate well with children and enjoy working with them. “We come across a lot of instructors with very good rugby skills” says Lorna Belchambers, proprietor of Rugbytots SW London “but it’s more difficult to find those that love teaching children.” So, if you have a rugby coaching qualification and relate well to children, do contact Lorna at lorna@rugbytots.co.uk or call 0845 481 6444. For more information on Rugbytots classes, visit www.rugbytots. co.uk

Classes at all levels RAD Ballet ISTD Modern & Tap, Street-dance /Hip-Hop, LAMDA Drama at United Church Hall, Raleigh Rd, Richmond

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK A FREE TRIAL CLASS SEE THE WEBSITE

www.kewacademydance.co.uk or

call 01932 423456 or 07967 341117 Open Monday, Wednesday & Friday 10:00 - 14:00 (Term time only) info@littlehamsters.co.uk 07432 354 274 Indoor and outdoor fun for grown ups and little ones

www.littlehamsters.co.uk

• Play space for babies and toddlers • Relaxing café for parents and carers • Delicious coffee, handmade cakes, snacks and light lunches • Ample free parking and Wi-Fi • Regular visiting entertainers • Warm, friendly and welcoming environment Kew & Ham Sports Association, Ham Fields, Riverside Drive, Ham, Richmond, TW10

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

September 2014

ART & CRAFT

ANNIE’S ARTS Ages: 7-15 Learn to hand sew, use a sewing machine, design and cut out a simple pattern. Content of class according to child’s ability. After school classes and also some Saturdays. Children’s parties for ages 5-15 also available. Half Term Workshops booking NOW! In: Richmond Contact: Ann Chasler 07879 428172 anniesarts@outlook.com CERAMICS CAFÉ KEW Ages: All Children have the opportunity to create something unique. Starting with a plain white bisque shape, they paint on their design using ceramic under-glazes, it is then fired in the kiln, and their piece is ready for collection within 2 to 4 days. Open Tuesday to Sunday, Mondays on Bank Holidays/half terms. In: Kew Contact: Joanna Wronka 020 8332 6661 www.ceramicscafe.com

BABY & CHILD DEVELOPMENT

GYMBOREE Ages: 0-5 Award winning Play and Learn, Art, Music, Sensory Play for Babies. Classes are designed by experts in early childhood development to help young children learn as they play and teach grown-ups fun and interesting ways to engage with them. You can find local classes in St Margarets, Surbiton and NEW in Walton (re-located from West Byfleet). NEW in Walton: Play and Learn Family Classes which can accommodate children of different ages in one class so are ideal if you have more than one child that you’d like to attend. In Surbiton: Pre-School Classes now available! In St Margarets: Classes 7 days a week! In: St Margarets, Surbiton, and NEW in Walton (re-located from West Byfleet) Contact: St Margaret’s 020 8607 9995 Surbiton 020 3609 8007 Walton 01932 221371 www.gymboree-uk.com THE LITTLE GYM Ages: 4mths–12 Fun, gymnastics-based, non-competitive development classes, filled with movement, learning and laughter. The age-appropriate curriculum is designed to facilitate on-going skill development and maximum

classes, clubs activities

fun. Children progress at their own pace, developing their confidence as they develop new skills. In: Hampton Hill Contact: Lorna Sutton 020 8977 0099 www.thelittlegym.co.uk SINGING HANDS Ages: Babies and Toddlers Introduction to baby signing through songs, rhymes, stories and games. Babies have a natural tendency to use gesture (eg. clapping and waving bye-bye). Baby signing builds on these normal patterns of communication. Toddler Classes also available. Term Starts: 22 September In: East Twickenham, Twickenham, Teddington Contact: Suzanne or Tracy 020 8288 1706 info@singinghands.co.uk www.singinghands.co.uk TINY TALK KINGSTON Ages: 0-4 Baby Signing and Toddler Talking classes using British Sign Language with new sensory props and play to help little ones develop their speech and language skills. Term Starts: 8 September Contact: Kerry Callard-Williams 07759 852717 kerryc@tinytalk.co.uk www.tinytalk.co.uk/kerryc

COOKERY

SASSY STIRRERS Ages: 4-12 Monthly Saturday Cooking Club for kids, after school and lunch time cooking classes in local schools, and 2-3 hour holiday workshops with food cooked to be taken home. In: Kingston and Esher areas Contact: Susan Carmichael 07789 792676 www.sassystirrers.com

DANCE

BABYBALLET NORTH SURREY Ages: 6mths-6yrs babyballet is a fun, award-winning pre-school dance concept for girls and boys. Classes allow babies, toddlers and young children to enjoy the physical and social benefits of ballet, song and dance in a safe, caring, positive and informal environment. With a real focus on learning through

Ceramics Café Kew Original Ceramics - Painted By You

Annie’s Arts

es for children Fun sewing class chmond ages 7 to 15 in Ri Contact Ann on 07879 428172 anniesarts@outlook.com

C O O K I N G PA RT I E S

play, the unique syllabus offers four key stages of ballet and tap classes. Children build confidence and social skills, learn manners, discipline and respect while developing their basic ballet technique, coordination, musicality, balance, posture and rhythm Term Starts: 8 September In: Cobham, Weybridge, Molesey, Esher Contact: 07881496275 northsurrey@babyballet.co.uk www.babyballet.co.uk BROOKS DANCE ACADEMY Introducing Petite Pointes Ballet Ages: 2.5-7 A captivating introduction to classical ballet based on much loved children’s stories, such as The Three Little Pigs, Goldilocks and Jack and the Beanstalk. Familiar repetitive rhymes and creative imagery make classes easy to follow. Parents and carers are encouraged to join in to help younger children feel comfortable. RAD syllabus work interweaved through the innovative and unique curriculum. Classes on Saturdays from 9.30am-12.30pm for ages 2.5-7yrs, including RAD Pre-Primary (4-5yrs) RAD Primary (5-6yrs) and RAD Grade 1 (6-7yrs) In: Kingston Contact: Laura Brooks 07958 530962 Laura@brooksdanceacademy.co.uk www.brooksdanceacademy.co.uk DANCEFORCE Ages: 18mths-Adults RAD Ballet, ISTD Tap, Modern and Jazz. Lamda Drama Term Starts: 13 September In: Kingston Contact: Carol Winter 020 8241 8496 enquiries@danceforcekingston.com www.danceforcekingston.com DANCE FUSION TWICKENHAM Ages: 2.5-Adult Ballet, Modern, Tap & musical theatre classes Term Starts: 3 September In: Twickenham Contact: Mina Burden/Karen Melling 07813 170070 info@dancefusiontwickenham.com www.dancefusiontwickenham.com

Studio Hours: Tues-Sat 10am-6pm Sunday 11am-6pm

The UK’s Favourite baby signing classes Communicate with your baby before he can talk! Sign, Sing, Play and Socialise ❖ Structured and educational approach ❖ Fun and friendly atmosphere ❖ Suitable for 0-2 year olds Classes in Kingston and Thames Ditton Call Kerry 07759 852 717 or kerryc@tinytalk.co.uk www.tinytalk.co.uk

Closed Mon, except Bank Holidays and Half Terms www.ceramicscafe.com Tel: 020 8332 6661

1a Mortlake Terrace, Kew Green Richmond TW9 3DT

Signing fun for little ones!

& WORKSHOPS

Children love our fun cooking parties learning new tips with little stress for you!

Saturday Cooking Club

Once a month 2.30-4.30pm Surbiton N E W D A T E S : 20th Sept. Oct 19, Nov 23

Limited places; contact us NOW for a booking form!

phone: 0 7 7 8 9 7 9 2 6 7 6 email: i n f o @ s a s s y s t i r r e r s . c o m

September 2014

˘ Come along and join our multi-sensory sign and sing-a-long Y

sessions featuring nursery rhymes, action songs, games and CM stories ˘ Fun and friendly classes ˘ Lots of puppets, props and instruments ˘ Suitable for all babies and young children MY ˘ Singing Hands Songbooks, CDs and DVDs available ˘ CY For more information about our baby signing classes, toddler CMY sessions or workshops for professionals, please K contact us on: 020 8288 1706 www.singinghands.co.uk info@singinghands.co.uk www.facebook.com/SingingHands @singinghands As featured on BBC Cbeebies ‘Something Special’ & ‘Tikkabilla’

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

classes, clubs activities

ELIZABETH JAMES DANCE ACADEMY NEW Ages: 18 mths-18yrs An academy which offers vibrant and imaginative RAD Ballet and IDTA Tap classes and its own unique syllabus for pre-schoolers. Melody classes are beautifully designed for 18mths+ and encourage musicality and rhythm. All classes are carefully crafted to inspire, whilst nurturing talent and confidence. Pupils can take part in rewarding exam scheme or simply take part for pleasure. Holiday workshops and FREE TASTER classes available. In: Richmond and Kew Contact: Suze Bailey 07815 289306 www.elizabethjamesdanceacademy.co.uk KBS NEW MALDEN Ages: 3-18 Creates an atmosphere in which your child’s love of dance can thrive, where pupils can have fun and enjoyment in a happy school that has excellent standards. The School offers ballet (graded and vocational levels), tap and modern classes. In: New Malden Contact: Louise Jefferson 07909 139149 www.kingstonballetschool.com KEW ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS Ages: 2.5-Adult Classes include RAD Ballet, ISTD Tap and Modern, Streetdance/Hip Hop, LAMDA Drama and a bi-annual school performance. In: Richmond/Kew Contact: Victoria Maitland 01932 423456 or 07967 341117 kewacademy@hotmail.com www.kewacademydance.co.uk LYRIC DANCE STUDIO NEW Ages: 3-10 Term Starts: Week beginning 10 September Ballet and musical theatre classes. Small size groups with plenty of individual attention. Professional teachers, annual exams, kids show time. FREE TRIAL class. In: Kingston Contact: Anastasia 07792 450372 info@lyricdance.co www.Lyricdance.com

MOVEMENT WARRIORS Ages: Boys 5-8yrs and 8yrs+ Dance and movement classes for boys taught by Karl Morgan. Refreshingly non-traditional style of dance education, covering all dance styles, with particular emphasis on street, hip hop, breaking and contemporary dance. In: Kingston, Long Ditton, Teddington & Twickenham Contact: Karl Morgan 07726 313507 www.movementwarriors.com TIPPIE TOES NEW Ages: 18mths-3yrs Ballet and Creative dance Term Starts: 13 September In: Twickenham Contact: Carol Winter 020 8241 8496 enquiries@danceforcekingston.com www.danceforcekingston.com WEST LONDON SPANISH DANCE SCHOOL Ages: 6-Adult Betty Cid is a certified teacher of the SDS syllabus, classes are fun and friendly. Great for co-ordination and confidence building. Students work towards shows and medal examinations. Bilingual Spanish/English. Term Starts: 10 September In: Twickenham Contact: Betty Cid 07833 195361 bettycid@hotmail.co.uk www.bettycidflamenco.co.uk

DRAMA & STORYTELLING BRIDGE STORYTELLING ADVENTURES Monster Mayhem Halloween Workshop Ages: 2-5 Date: 27-31 Oct (10am to 12pm) The perfect Halloween treat for your little monsters! This course explores some of our favourite child-friendly monsters from popular books, cartoons and films. Each day children will meet a different monster and go on an adventure jam-packed with song, dance, drama and art and craft. Buddy and sibling discounts! In: Twickenham Contact: Amanda Wright 020 3222 3085/07890 013830 info@bridgeac.com www.bridgeac.com DRAMATIZE Ages: 6-14 Dramatize Theatre School teaches children and teenagers how to sing, dance and act, not only to perform

on stage, but more importantly to perform better in life. They not only teach the tools to sing, dance and act, but to gain confidence, nurture spontaneity and imagination, build essential life skills and most importantly have fun as well! Term Starts: 13 September In: Ashford Contact: Joanne Smith 01784 250186 info@DramatizeTC.com www.dramatize.co.uk PERFORM Ages: 3mths-12yrs A unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child’s true potential. Classes are kept small to ensure lots of individual attention by experienced teachers. Children will be travelling through space on an inter-planetary adventure with The Space Queen and The Little Green Alien. On their way they’ll eat cheese with The Man on the Moon, gravity groove with The Sparkly Spaceman, and visit Venus with the beautiful Princess Star. Their mission is to confront and stop The Cruel Commander, who plans to destroy Planet Earth…but will they stop him on time? FREE TRIAL! NEW branch in Staines upon Thames opening in September on Friday afternoons. EXCLUSIVE FAMILIES OFFER: FREE TRIAL AVAILABLE PLUS £40 DISCOUNT ON YOUR CHILD’S FIRST 10 SESSIONS. QUOTE “FAMI011014”. In: East Sheen, Kew, Kingston, Isleworth, Mortlake, Richmond, Sunbury, Teddington, Twickenham Contact: Lucy Quick 0845 400 1284 www.perform.org.uk STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS Ages: 4-18 Caters for the varying needs of young performers, whether reserved or budding talents. Classes focus on singing, dancing and drama, rather than rehearsing for an end of term presentation, so that every child has a chance to shine, learn and develop. In: Chertsey 07725 176102, Cobham 01932 348844, Hinchley Wood 01372 238238, Hounslow 020 8873 7140, Kew 020 8487 1456, New Malden 020 8540 7791, Richmond 020 8332 6741, Staines 01483 235216,

Twickenham 020 3700 9127, Weybridge 01932 422664 www.stagecoach.co.uk STEP ON STAGE Ages: 3-21 Encourages young people to reach their maximum potential in a fun and friendly setting, through drama, music, dance and creative movement. Weekly workshops grouped by age with trained teachers, theatre practitioners and education professionals dedicated to making your child’s experience exciting and rewarding. An auditioned youth theatre allows students to also perform plays, new writing and musical theatre in local and professional theatres. In: Hampton Hill and Twickenham Contact: Emma-Louise Tinniswood 020 8408 0633/07973 900196 www.steponstageacademy.co.uk STARLIGHT THEATRE ARTS NEW Ages: 4-15 Theatre Arts School with a difference. A unique combination of Performing Arts and Music skills. Fun performances at end of each term. In: Richmond Contact: Jade Jones 07780 116484 charlie-jade@hotmail.com www.starlighttheatrearts.com STORIES AND MORE ACADEMY Ages: 4-11 Not only will your child make new friends and grow in confidence, each week they will develop and build their creative skills. They will get the chance to tell a story through dance, drama and singing every week. In addition, once a term we put on a show for the parents, with the ideas and script coming straight from the children’s imaginations – it is great fun! In: New Malden Contact: 0845 075 6044 lillie@storiesandmore.co.uk www.storiesandmore.co.uk THEATREBUGS Spooktastic Half Term Workshop Ages: 3.5-7 Date: 29-30 October (9am-12pm in Cobham and 1.30-4.30pm in Weybridge) Spooktastic adventures packed with drama, music, dance and art and craft. Nothing too spooky and different material each day. Come in your favourite costume- the Bugs will dress up too! Day 1: All the animals are all asleep: help Barry Bat find someone to Trick or Treat with!

Creative Movement & Dance from 18 Months to 3 Years Tippie Toes Dance Classes Fun-packed, 30 minute dance classes for girls and boys. Children improve gross motor skills, social skills, co-ordination and rhythm, using themes and props. Parents/carers are encouraged to stay and join in! BOOK A FREE TRIAL CLASS Classes in Kingston and Twickenham

Call 020 8241 8496 enquiries@danceforcekingston.com www.danceforcekingston.com

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

Danceforce School of Dancing, Kingston RAD Ballet Classes. From 18 months. Fun, pre-school classes + RAD Ballet syllabus from Pre Primary. ISTD Modern, Tap and Jazz. From 4 years. ISTD grades from Pre Primary.

FREE TRIAL CLASS FOR ALL NEW CHILDREN

Adult Ballet & Tap

£5

Introductory Class

LAMDA Drama. From 4 years. Younger children work with poems, stories and movement. Older students work towards LAMDA drama exams.

enquiries@danceforcekingston.com

020 8241 8496 September 2014

Day 2: Anansi the Spider wants to throw a party but everyone is afraid of spiders. Can the boys and girls solve Anansi’s and Barry’s problems? One day option subject to availability. Early Bug and sibling discounts, promotional offers and further locations, see website. Contact: Hannah 01483 882244 / 07971 004134 hannahmason@theatrebugs.co.uk www.theatrebugs.co.uk/surrey

LANGUAGES

RICHMOND DUTCH SCHOOL NEW Ages: 3-12 Richmond Dutch School offers term time weekly Dutch classes for children with at least a basic understanding of Dutch. Fun-based learning run by qualified teachers. The School also organises monthly Saturday playgroups for 0-5 year olds and their Dutch-speaking parent(s). In: SW14 Contact: info@richmonddutchschool.org.uk

MUSIC

COLOURSTRINGS NEW Ages: 1-3 approx A long-established and respected Music Education method for very young children. In: Ritz Music, 88 Sheen Road, Richmond, TW9 1UF Contact: Lyn 020 8948 2066 harryhare123@aol.com www.colourstrings.co.uk JO JINGLES COBHAM, EPSOM AND LEATHERHEAD NEW Ages: 3mths-5yrs Jo Jingles provides fun, 45 minute music, singing and movement classes which teach children to play percussion instruments expressively, sing songs and find the rhythm to move and dance. Age-specific classes are tailor-made to engage event the youngest children. Classes encourage hand-eye co-ordination, and help children learn social skills and make friends, as well as encouraging their physical, mental and emotional development. Children play two age-specific percussion instruments each week. No joining fees! FREE TRIAL! In: Cobham, Epsom, Fetcham (near Leatherhead) Contact: Viv Hunt 07751 438943 vivhjojingles@aol.com www.jojingles.com/epsom2leatherhead MARGARET WOOD PIANO LESSONS Ages: 5-Adult Margaret is a qualified music teacher (Cert ED. ALCM) and teaches ABRSM Practical and Theory Exam Grades 1 to 8 and Rockschool Graded Exams. In: Walton upon Thames Contact: Margaret Wood 01932 219767 or 07857 689396 MONKEY MUSIC Ages: 3 mths-4.5yrs Award-winning preschool music classes for babies and children. Through a four stage curriculum in age appropriate classes, children will develop a lifetime love for music. Book a FREE CLASS to experience all the fun yourselves! In: Kingston and Surbiton 020 8224 3971, Banstead, Claygate and Esher 01932 223309, Weybridge, Cobham,

classes, clubs activities

Hersham, Walton and Molesey 020 8224 0096, Kew, Richmond, Twickenham and Teddington 020 8847 4031, Oxshott, Leatherhead and Dorking 01483 841303 www.monkeymusic.co.uk MINI MOZOS MUSIC CLUB NEW Ages: 3mths-3yrs Uplifting and unforgettable drop-in classes. Escape to a tropical island with Jim, and meet the tuneful fruit people. Sing your favourite songs with a calypso or reggae twist, then learn some great new music with actions and instruments. Jam along to the guitar, ukulele, trumpet, recorder, drumming and percussion in a fun, relaxed atmosphere and rattle, shake and bash plenty of instruments. Enjoy (not endure!) a variety of music. Content introduces concepts of pitch, rhythm, dynamics and genre and has been developed with childcare professionals and trialled with the NCT. In: Teddington Term Starts: 10 September Contact: Jim Tucker-Salfield 07899 811703 mozoisland@gmail.com mozoislandmusicschool.blogspot.co.uk MOZO ISLAND AFTER SCHOOL BEGINNERS’ MUSIC CLUB NEW Ages: 5-8 approx Introduction to recorder, ukulele, guitar, singing, drumming and art. In: Ritz Music, 88 Sheen Road, Richmond, TW9 1UF Contact: James Tucker 07899 811703 richmond@ritzmusic.co.uk www.mozoisland.com BDA Advert_v5.indd 1 31/05/2013 18:47 MUSIC THEORY WIZARDS NEW Ages: All ABRSM, Trinity/Guildhall, GCSE, AS/A Level, Diploma. 1 hour classes In: Ritz Music, 88 Sheen Road, Richmond, TW9 1UF Contact: Paul or James 07898 811703 richmond@ritzmusic.co.uk www.ritzmusic.co.uk SING, STRUM AND DRUM PRE-SCHOOL UKULELE GROUP Ages: 3-5 A pre-school ukulele class for children aged approx 3-5 yrs. Ukuleles can be borrowed or bring along your own. Includes well-known nursery rhymes and songs to encourage rhythm and tone Don’t forget to say where you saw the ad! In: Ritz Music, 88 Sheen Road, Richmond, TW9 1UF Contact: Tara Maysey 07740 443694 tara@tarasmusicmagic.com www.tarasmusicmagic.com PRIMARY UKULELE GROUP NEW Ages: 5-10 approx A ukulele class for primary school aged children approx 5-10 yrs. A fun music class looking at rhythm, basic theory and fun with this great little instrument! Work towards an end of term performance and play your favourite pop songs. Ukuleles can be borrowed/ rented or bring along your own In: Ritz Music, 88 Sheen Road, Richmond, TW9 1UF Contact: Tara Maysey 07740 443694 tara@tarasmusicmagic.com www.taramaysey.wix.com/teachchildrenmusic

Ballet & Musical Theatre

Creating an environment in which your child’s love of dance can thrive

Kingston Classes

✿ Free trial lesson ✿ Small size groups for individual attention ✿ Professional teachers ✿ Annual IDTA exams ✿ Kid’s show time

KBS NEW MALDEN Est. 1995 Ballet, Jazz, Tap and Modern Dance classes for 2½ to 18 years in New Malden

NEW FOR NEXT TERM:

Tap and Modern for 7 to 9 years Saturday Ballet for 3/4 and 5/6 years • Free Trial Lessons • Sibling Discounts

Option to take exams in all dance styles, 100% success rate All teachers are highly qualified and RAD registered For full details:

www.kingstonballetschool.com Principal Louise Jefferson B.Phil(hons),LRAD,ARAD, AISTD

on 07909 139149

September 2014

www.LyricDance.com info@Lyricdance.com 07792450372

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

classes, clubs activities

RITZ KIDS BAND Ages: 7-12 approx Ritz Music’s very own school of rock! A jamming session for 7-12 year olds. A chance to play your instrument in a band with kids your own age. If you are a budding musician or singer bring along your instrument(s) and join the band! In: Ritz Music, 88 Sheen Road, Richmond, TW9 1UF Contact: Tara Maysey 07740 443694 taramaysey@gmail.com www.ritzmusic.blogspot.co.uk RITZ KIDS SINGERS AFTER SCHOOL SINGING CLUB NEW Ages: 7-13 approx A fun singing group for kids run by professional music and vocal coaches. Covers vocal warm ups, performance, confidence building and loads of fun! In: Ritz Music Richmond, 88 Sheen Road, Richmond, TW9 1UF Contact: Olga Matylda 07428 775848

ritz.kids.choir@gmail.com www.ritzmusic.blogspot.co.uk TARA’S MUSIC MAGIC Ages: 0-4 approx Songs, rhythm, instruments and play. In: Ritz Music, 88 Sheen Road, Richmond, TW9 1UF Contact: Tara Maysey 07740 443694 tara@tarasmusicmagic.com www.tarasmusicmagic.com TINY TUNES PRESCHOOL PAY AS YOU GO MUSIC AND DANCE Ages: 3mths-5yrs Hide under the parachute, wave the pom poms, shake the maracas, dance with bubbles and sing along! As well as the all-time favourite rhymes and songs, Tiny Tunes gets the little ones dancing to some of the well- known pop classics! Parties also available. In: Richmond, Twickenham, Isleworth, Whitton, Teddington, Hampton Hill, Barnes, Thames Ditton, Surbiton, Isleworth, Whitton, Epsom, Cobham, Weybridge, Ascot and NEW in Guildford and Reigate! Contact: Lisa Morris 07977 585020 www.tinytuneslive.com

WEEKLY

LOCAL

SOFT PLAY AND PLAY CAFES

LITTLE HAMSTERS PLAY CAFE Ages: 0-5 Relaxed environment, coffee, cakes, lunches. Soft play shapes, ball pool, ride-on toys and various exciting and stimulating table-top activities and puzzles, in a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. Outdoor playground. Indoor and outdoor seating. Free parking, Free Wi-Fi. Regular fortnightly craft and music classes. Phone or visit website for details. Open: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10am to 2pm. Term time only. In: Ham Contact: Helen and Beth 07432 354274 www.littlehamsters.co.uk

SPORT

CATCH-A-BALLS Age: 18 months to school age Fun ball game-based activities that develop skills such as rolling, throwing, catching and using bats. Indoor venues so kids stay warm and dry and get full enjoyment. New games and props each term to ensure the children are kept interested and experience a wide range of sports, such as cricket and boules). Club BOING: 18 mths-2yrs; Club BOUNCE: 2.5-3.5yrs; Club CATCH: 3.5 to school age. Parents/carers join the fun in Club BOING and Club BOUNCE whilst in Club CATCH, parents can observe. Term Starts: Week beginning 8 September In: Claygate, Kingston, Richmond, Surbiton, Teddington, Thames Ditton, Twickenham and NEW in St Margarets! Contact: Heather for Kingston, Richmond, Twickenham, Claygate, St Margarets & Teddington 020 8398 3034 contact@catch-a-balls.co.uk Roz for Thames Ditton and Surbiton 020 8972 9223 roz@catch-a-balls.co.uk www.catch-a-balls.co.uk FOOTIE TOTS Ages: Footie Tots 2.5-5 Footie Wizards 5-11 An introduction to the world of fitness and football with lots of goal scoring and fun along the way! Footie Tots and Footie Wizards encourage the children to lead an

Sing

Jam

active and healthy lifestyle from a young age. All classes are held indoors. In: Hampton, Twickenham, Teddington, Richmond, Feltham, Hounslow Contact: Andy Scates In: Thames Ditton, Esher, Molesey, Walton, Kingston and Surbiton Contact: 07828 629531 07931 707720 www.footie-tots.co.uk GBMAA MARTIAL ARTS Ages: 4 to 14 The Great Britain Martial Arts Academies are at the forefront of Martial Arts in the UK. Li’l Dragon programmes (4-6yrs), Kids Zone (7-8yrs) and Children’s Programme (9-14yrs). Children work on their own personal development through non-violent resolutions to conflict, building self-confidence and self-discipline, respecting others, setting goals and working as a team. In: Cobham Contact: Curtis 0845 177 5001 www.gbacademies.co.uk KIDDIKICKS FOOTBALL CLASSES Ages: 18mths-9yrs Kiddikicks coaches real skills in a super-fun environment. Encouraging a healthy lifestyle through participation in sport whilst developing a love for the beautiful game! Parties also offered. Term Starts: 13 September (East Molesey, Kingston, Twickenham, Whitton, Isleworth, Feltham, Hampton), 8 September (Richmond, Sheen, Brentford) In: East Molesey, North Kingston, Twickenham, Whitton, Isleworth, Feltham, Hampton, Richmond, Sheen, Brentford Contact: East Molesey and Kingston Jen 020 3560 9256 jen@kiddikicks.co.uk Twickenham, Whitton, Isleworth, Feltham and Hampton Tamara 0800 035 4464 twix@kiddikicks.co.uk Richmond, Sheen, Brentford Sarah 020 7937 7965 sarah@kiddikicks.co.uk www.kiddikicks.co.uk www.nwsurrey.kiddikicks.co.uk www.kiddikicks.co.uk/twickenham LITTLE ALL SPORTS NEW For Ages: 2-5 Term Starts: Week beginning 15 September Pre-school multi-sports. In: Walton

Play Enjoy

CLASSES

with Water Babies, the UK’s leading baby swim school

3 Fully qualified, world class instructors 3 Award-winning programme teaches babies from birth 3 Teaching you to teach your baby to swim 3 Saving lives through water confidence and safety skills To join in the fun call

01932 227 428

classes held. . . Addlestone, Shepperton, Kingston, Chessington, Morden, Richmond & Cobham

waterbabies.co.uk

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

8th Sept Oct Discover Instruments in a 3.45 pm 27 tham-31pmst Mondays

Tropical Adventure

9.30 -3 Richmon d Ritz Music James Tucker Sheen Road TW9 07899 811703 mozoisland blog Unique Music and Art mozoisland@gmail.com for 5-10s

September 2014

Contact: Ruth 07806 094641 info@littleallsports.co.uk www.littleallsports.co.uk LONDON KARATE LTD NEW Ages: 4+ Teachers help develop good manners, self discipline and respect for parents and teachers within the lesson. SPECIAL FAMILIES OFFER: 3 FREE TRIAL CLASSES AVAILABLE WHEN YOU MENTION THIS LISTING Term Starts: 8 September In: Richmond, Putney, Kingston, Weybridge, Brentford, Roehampton Contact: 07538 497798 contact@londonkarate.co.uk www.londonkarate.co.uk PLAYBALL Ages: 2-8 Prepare your child for life, with our comprehensive sport and movement based programme. In: Hampton, Esher, Hersham, Richmond, Barnes, St Margarets, Roehampton, Kingston and NEW in Sunbury! Contact: Hampton playball.kay@gmail.com Sunbury sunbury.playball@gmail.com Richmond, Barnes, St Margarets, Roehampton richmond.playball@gmail.com Kingston kingston.playball@gmail.com Esher/Hersham playball.gareth@gmail.com www.playballuk.com NETSTARS AND NETBELLES NETBALL NEW Ages: 7-12 Netstars Netball is an action-packed, fun, netball training programme for ages 7 to 12. Netbelles is adult netball training and match play for all abilities. A great way to get fit and have fun at the same time. Alternatively, put a team together and join our new Netbelles league.

In: Richmond, Barnes and Putney Term Starts: Week beginning 8 Sep BACK TO SCHOOL CAMP Sat 6 Sep in Richmond for Yrs 3-7 9.30am to 1.30pm Contact: Caroline or Sophie info@netstarsnetball.com www.netstarsnetball.com READY STEADY GO KIDS Ages: 2-7 Physio-designed multi-sports program to develop children’s motor skills, and increase their confidence and abilities. Five sports each term, 45 minute classes covering the fundamentals of football, tennis, basketball, hockey (Uni-hoc), golf, rugby, cricket, t-ball and athletic. Contact: Matt or Rob 0800 690 6591 In: Richmond, Kingston and NEW in Chessington! Contact: Kathy or Matt 0800 690 6591 www.rsgk.co.uk RUGBYTOTS Age: 2-7 A fun, enthusiastic, weekly play program based around Rugby. Rugbytots aims to use Rugby specific skills to aid the development of young children. Not only does the program develop physical and social attributes in children, but also encourages basic rugby skills including running with the ball, kicking, catching and scoring a try. Classes are split by age group and all lead coaches are trained to a very high standard to get the best out of the children in a safe, organised and friendly environment. In: Twickenham, Barnes, Putney, Surbiton, and NEW in Richmond – FREE TASTER on 6 September! Contact: Lorna Belchambers 0845 481 6444 www.rugbytots.co.uk

TOP SPIN MONKEYS Age: 2-6 This great new tennis programme provides parents/carers and children with the opportunity to interact through learning sport skills. Its coaching develops a child’s ABCs Agility, Balance and Co-ordination, as well as improving their speed. Fun yet structured sessions for 2-6 year old boys and girls at selected indoor locations in Surrey. New locations soon in Surrey. In: Cobham, Epsom, Weybridge, East Horsley Contact: Andy 07779 130596 andy@topspinmonkeys.co.uk www.topspinmonkeys.co.uk TRY TIME KIDS’ RUGBY NEW Age: 2-7 Term Starts: 6/7 September Fun, rugby centred activities that will develop skills and confidence and increase enjoyment of sport. In: Richmond Contact: Danielle Dyer 01252 794150 sales@trytimekidsrugby.com www.trytimekidsrugby.com

SWIMMING

PK SWIM SCHOOL Age: 2-18 Term Starts: Week beginning 8 September Swimming lessons for all abilities and ages. We make swimming fun and engaging for non-swimmers as well as taxing for the stroke improvers. In: Cobham Contact: Paul Furness/Koing Chea 07915 510720/07939 232731 info@pkswimschool.co.uk www.pkswimschool.co.uk

classes, clubs activities

SPRINGBOARD SWIMMERS Age: 3+ Top quality, friendly and professional weekly swimming lessons and holiday courses suitable for non-swimmers and beginners. These courses teach children to swim well and not just pass badges. Small groups of 3 children and excellent teachers. You will be amazed at how much progress your child will make. Mother and Baby and Toddler groups through to teenager squads and every available ability in between. October Half term Courses booking NOW! Term Starts: 8 September In: Twickenham, Teddington, Hampton Contact: Karen Duane 020 8255 7455 admin@springboardswimmers.com www.springboardswimmers.com WATER BABIES Age: 0-4.5 Classes progress seamlessly through the program, with children having great fun while all the time building confidence and independence in the water. Most toddlers can swim short distances by around the age of 2, and have mastered vital skills including how to turn around and hold on and, where possible, how to clamber out of the pool. In: Addlestone, Shepperton, Kingston, Chessington, Cobham, Richmond and Morden Contact: Melissa Holt 01932 227428 www.waterbabies.co.uk

FOOTIE TOTS

Welcome to the world of fitness and football for 2.5 to 5 year olds Teaching basic ball skills, scoring lots of goals and having FUN!

FOOTIE WIZARDS For children ages 5 to 8

Hampton, Teddington, Twickenham, Richmond, Feltham and Hounslow, ALL CLASSES call 07931 707720 HELD INDOORS andy@footie-tots.co.uk FOOTBALL PARTIES AVAILABLE

Esher, Molesey, Thames Ditton, Walton, Kingston and Surbiton, call 07828 629531

Australia’s largest

multi-sport & exercise

NOW IN THE

program for children aged 2–7 years

NO OBLIGATION

TRIAL

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

Your local Ready Steady Go Kids Classes are held at venues near you in Chessington, Kingston and Richmond. Term 1 begins 1st September 2014 (10 week term with a break for half term)

@RSGKUK ReadySteadyGoKidsUK

September 2014

www.rsgk.co.uk info@rsgk.co.uk 0800 690 6591

FR AV AN AI CH LA IS BL ES E

BOOK A

FREE

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

it’s

party time

Excitement on the Track! Linda Stone, Editor, speaks with two local mums about their experience of a Kiddi Karts party.

Coming up with new and exciting birthday party ideas year after year is challenging, particularly if you are looking for something a little different. “I wanted something that would be competitive and fun for my son, but not too physical” says Louise, mother of Jacob Evans, age 6.“Jacob has been unwell recently and I wanted a party that would be exciting, but without any running around.” Louise had held go-kart parties for her older sons so she knew the format fit her parameters perfectly. Children as young as 4 can safely handle

the easy-to-operate go-karts operated by Kiddi Karts. With one pedal to stop and go, and nothing else but steering to master, all that is required is a little bit of co-ordination. And if kids do need a little help, Kiddi Karts staff are on hand. Each party starts with a short instruction session, and then the go-karts are off, four at a time, around the track. Driving lasts about an hour and all children receive medals at the end in a special presentation session, with the birthday child also receiving a trophy. “We had 15 children at the party and it kept them all entertained” reports Louise.“While they were waiting their turn, they cheered on their friends. My son particularly enjoyed racing and beating me in a special race at the end!” Kiddi Karts parties have the perfect ingredients for a fun, engaging and memorable driving experience and can be held either inside or out, meaning weather is never a concern. You can use your back garden or hold the party at a local leisure centre. “We went to Woking Leisure Centre for

our Kiddi Karts party” says Claire Ellis, mother of Thomas. “I saw an ad for Kiddi Karts at my gym and I thought it would be great to give Thomas and his friends the chance to actually experience driving. It’s not an experience that is readily available to young children.” “We got some fantastic photos and have some great memories of the day” Claire reports. “The children loved the medals they received, which were very good quality and my son said it had been his best party ever.”

For more information, visit www.kiddikarts.co.uk

Signs of a Crime By Linda Stone, Editor

Retired police officer, Steve Sharkey found the perfect new career when he retired from the force after 30 years’ experience. Steve set up The Detective Project North East Surrey, which offer fun, science-based activities based on scene of crime analysis, using finger printing kits, crime scene materials and story boards.

Soft Play Hire ForcUnderc5's

www.partyplay2u.co.uk

FunBandBexcitingB softBplayBhireBtoBentertainB yourBchildrenBatBanyBevent

These activities are available for birthday parties and educational workshops, either at private homes or party venues. Steve worked as a detective for the Metropolitan Police in London, investigating murders and shootings. For the last four years of his career, he visited primary schools across London delivering workshops to Year 6 children, which alerted them to the dangers of a life of crime. Steve became passionate about this work. When he came across The Detective Project franchise, he thought it was a perfect way to use his experience and skills in a way that would allow him to continue to work with children. “Children love solving mysteries”

says Steve “and television means they are increasingly savvy about the way police detectives work. They relish the chance to use these police techniques themselves.” For further information, visit www.thedetectiveproject.co.uk

Packagescstartc fromc£80

Walton-on-Thames,B Hersham,BMolesey,B Esher,BWeybridge,B SheppertonBandBByfleetB (otherBareasBbyBrequest)

CallcRuthc07806c094641corcLisac07949c917972 forcmorecinformation

www.familiesuponthames.co.uk

September 2014

How to Plan a Party for a Mixed Gender Group

it’s

party time

We asked Juliet from party-planning company, Bedazzled Events to give us some ideas. Planning a party which suits both boys and girls can sometimes feel challenging. However, there are some simple steps you can follow to ensure all your Princesses and Pirates will be entertained and kept happy! Firstly, pick a theme that is your child’s favourite, even if this seems too girly or boyish for a mixed group. Once the theme is in place, you can incorporate other unisex elements. Find a fantastic entertainer who works well with both boys and girls and can adapt their party plan to suit both. Avoid entertainers who suggest they have a set plan as they will need to be versatile and spontaneous when adapting

your chosen theme for a mixed group. For instance, when we arrange a party with a super- girly theme, such as Princesses or Fairies, the Princess or Fairy entertainer will include Princes, Knights, Pirates or Superheroes in their story and party games. So although the party will be girly, it should still engage all the children attending. Boys in the group who may be initially put off by the girly entertainer are soon happy enough to play Prince charming! The same principles work vice versa when having a party with a boyish theme. It is best to keep the group all together so that all the children feel included in all the activities. If you choose not to have an entertainer, develop lots of games that are suitable for the age group of children at the party and for both sexes. Remember younger children will need plenty of variety so have lots of extra games up your sleeve! When decorating the party venue, choose two complementary colours that are appropriate for your theme. For instance, if you are having a Princess party, choose purple as well as pink. You can match white with blue for a party with a boyish theme or yellow and green. Or you can choose to decorate with a generic theme, for example Fairytale or Over the Rainbow. A craft activity is a great idea for a mixed group. You can choose to have a separate craft for boys and girls or have one

Try something different! Solve the crime!

Free party bags

Crime Investigation Parties Dress up in crime scene suits, follow the clues and use a variety of techniques to solve the crime… just in time for tea and cake!

unisex option. Integrate the activity into the entertainment plan. For example, you can have the children design their own shields, crowns or wands and then use them as props. These will be fun to make and help create the themed “world” of the party. Lastly, try to be flexible with your theme when it comes to party bags. This will allow you to buy unisex gifts, for example, a Fairytale puzzle. This will make things much slicker when handing out the party bags at the end of the party, and will be easier if numbers change at the last minute. The main aim of the party should be to ensure your little one

is happy with the theme and that you are prepared and organized so you can relax on the day.

Happy Partying!

extra

Juliet is the Founder of Bedazzled Events, a London-based party planning service that plans unique parties for all ages, working to your chosen budget and theme of your choice to create your perfect party. For help in creating a party for a mixed gender group or for more information, visit www.bedazzledevents.org.uk

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September 2014

01932 961 422/07890 665 113 info@dazzleandfizz.co.uk www.dazzleandfizzparties.co.uk

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what’s on DAILY UNTIL 7 SEP CLIMB THE PAGODA AT KEW GARDENS Kew TW9 3AB Time: 9.30am-6pm Cost: £3.50 plus normal admission. For the first time in eight years the doors of the majestic Pagoda open to the public. Don’t miss out on a rare opportunity to go inside. 020 8332 5655 www.kew.org PLANTASIA AT KEW GARDENS Kew TW9 3AB Time: 9.30am-6pm Cost: FREE with normal admission Experience the stimulating and transformative power of plants from barefoot walking trails and Tai Chi sessions, to home remedy workshops and spectacular horticultural displays. 020 8332 5655 www.kew.org PLANT FAMILY CROQUET AT KEW GARDENS Kew, TW9 3AB Time: 9.30am-6pm Wed to Sun Cost: FREE with normal admission. Join a game of curious croquet as you find out about the healing power of plants. 020 8332 5655 www.kew.org

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THU 4, 11, 18 AND 25 SEP BAT WALKS AT LONDON WETLAND CENTRE Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes SW13 9WT Times: Sunset Cost: FREE with normal admission. See the astonishing aerial acrobatics of these amazing flying mammals and learn more about them from bat experts. 0208 409 4400 www.wwt.org.uk FRI 5 SEP FOR SANITYS SAKE LATE SUMMER PICNIC St Mary’s Parish Hall, Langham Rd, Teddington TW11 9HF Time: 1-3pm Cost: £5.95 for one child (over 1 yr) accompanied by up to two adults Babies, toddlers and children of all ages are welcome. Entertainment and fun, energetic activities from Catch-a-Balls, a local ball skills class provider.www. forsanityssake.com FRI 5 AND 19 SEP MUSEUM MONKEYS AT CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT For Ages: under 5s Time: 9.30-11.30am Cost: £4.50 Join Charlie the Chimp for singing, stories and craft. 01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org

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normal admission. See the intrepid team of history chefs undertake the elaborate process of making chocolate worthy of a king. 0844 482 7777 www.hrp.org.uk SAT 13 SEP BAT WALK AT PAINSHILL PARK Portsmouth Road, Cobham KT11 1JE For Ages: 8+ Time: 7-8.30pm Cost: Adult £10, Child £5 An introduction to bats and a walk around the lake during which you can watch and listen to them with bat detectors. Booking required. 01932 868 113 www.painshill.co.uk SAT 13 SEP DAD’S DAY IN RICHMOND Town Hall, Whittaker Avenue, Richmond TW9 1TP For Ages: up to 10 Time: 10am-12pm Cost: £6 per family. A programme of creative activities for dads with children 0-10. 020 8734 3308 www.richmond.gov.uk SAT 13 SEP FUNGUS FORAY WALK AT BUSHY PARK Pheasantry Café, Bushy Park TW11 0EW Time: 11am Cost: FREE A seasonal autumn walk exploring mushrooms and other fungi. www.fbhp.org.uk SAT 13, WED 17, SAT 20 SEP BAT WALK WEEK AT OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Rd, Isleworth TW7 4RB Time: 7-8.30pm Cost: Adult £6, Child £3 Enjoy bat-spotting on these evening walks. 020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust. org.uk/osterley-park FRI 19 TO SUN 21 SEP THE RIVER WEEKENDER AT WATERMANS ART CENTRE T: 01628 627586 40 High Street, Brentford E: editor@familiestveast.co.uk TW8 0DS Time: Fri 6.30-late, Sat/Sun 50 All Saints Avenue, Maidenhead, 11am-late A watery arts festival with Berkshire, SL6 6NA family-themed activities including outdoor cinema, children’s theatre, life-sized whale with a mini-theatre in its belly. www.totallythames.org SAT 20 SEP BIRDS OF PREY DAY AT CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG Time: 10.30am-4.30pm Cost: FREE with normal admission An opportunity to see and learn more about these magnificent birds, with two flying displays. 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ claremont-landscape-garden SAT 20 AND SUN 21 SEP A TREASURE HUNT WITH OLD FATHER THAMES AT WATERMANS ART CENTRE 40 High Street, Brentford TW8 0DS EVERY SAT AND SUN IN SEP FAMILY ART ACTIVITIES AT HAM HOUSE Ham Street, Ham TW10 7RS Time: 10am-5pm Cost: FREE with normal admission Create an art piece inspired by your visit to Ham. 020 8940 1950 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ ham-house SAT 6 SEP & 4 OCT FAMILY FUN AT ELMBRIDGE MUSEUM Hersham Village Hall, Queens Road KT12 5LT Time: 2-4.30pm Cost: £1.50 Creative activities for families. 01932 843573 www.elmbridge.gov.uk SAT 6 SEP FAMILY GARDEN PARTY AT SQUIRES GARDEN CENTRE HERSHAM Burwood Road, Hersham KT12 4AR Time: 10am-4pm Cost: FREE Join Squires in Hersham for their Family Garden Party celebrating the centre’s 30th anniversary 01932 247579 www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk 6-7 SEP AND 4-5 OCT TUDOR AND GEORGIAN CHOCOLATE COOKERY AT HAMPTON COURT PALACE East Molesey KT8 9AU Time: 10am-6pm Cost: FREE with

Thames Valley East

September 2014

what’s on For Ages: 2-4 & 4-8 Times: various Cost: Child £5, Adult FREE Children will hear exciting stories from a master storyteller, learn a dance and a song as they hunt for Isis, and make sparkly treasure to offer to her. They will go on an adventure through the centre down to a special riverside treasure trove. 020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk SAT 20 AND SUN 21 SEP THE WHALE MINI-THEATRE AT WATERMANS ART CENTRE 40 High Street, Brentford TW8 0DS For Ages: All Times: 11am-2pm and 3-6pm Cost: Child £5, Adult FREE A 3-minute journey for one adventurer at a time (or two if you’re shy). The Whale is a multi-sensory mini-theatre experience. Drop-in. 020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk SUN 21 SEP LUCKY DIP DISCO AT RIVERHOUSE BARN ARTS CENTRE Manor Road, Walton KT12 2NZ For Ages: Under 7s Time: 3-5pm Cost: Child £6, Adult £4 Retro Disco for children and families to dance together. Booking required. 01932 254198 www.riverhousebarn.co.uk FRI 26 SEP AND 10 OCT CLASSICAL BABIES IN TEDDINGTON Landmarks Art Centre, Ferry Rd TW11 9NN Time: 11am: Cost: Adult £10, Babies: FREE Relax and enjoy classical music by professional musicians in a comfortable and friendly environment. Soft blankets available and babies can make as much noise as they like! 020 8977 7558 www.classicalbabies.com MACMILLAN BIG MORNING TEA AT POTTERY CAFÉ 332 Richmond Rd, East Twickenham TW1 2DU For Ages: All Ages Time: 10am-12pm Bring your friends, give generously and enjoy a fun-filled morning of pottery painting, great tea, coffee and food. 020 8744 3000 www.pottery-cafe.com SAT 27 SEP CORNISH ENGINES AND WATERWORKS RAILWAY IN STEAM AT LONDON MUSEUM OF STEAM AND WATER Green Dragon Lane, Brentford TW8 0EN Time: 11am-4pm Cost: FREE with normal admission See the mighty Cornish Engines and Waterworks Railway in steam this weekend and enjoy everything this new museum has to offer. 020 8568 4757 www.waterandsteam.org.uk September 2014

SAT 27 AND SUN 28 SEP WALLACE AND GROMIT DAY OUT AT WATERCRESS LINE Alresford, Hampshire SO24 9JG Cost: Adult £17, Child £9 Family £43 Catch the BIG steam trains to Alresford where Wallace and Gromit will be making regular appearances and enjoy themed activities for children. 01962 733810 www.watercressline.co.uk FAMILIES FIRST WEEKEND AT OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Road, Isleworth TW7 4RB Time: 12-4pm Cost: FREE with normal admission Fun-packed weekend of hands-on activities. 020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterleypark SAT 27 SEP AND 4 OCT FUNGI FORAY AT CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG For Ages: 7+ Time: 10.30am-12.30pm Cost: Adult £8, Child £4 Join expert Sara Shepley for a seasonal Fungi Foray and learn how to identify the many different types of fungi growing around the garden. 0844 249 1895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ claremont-landscape-garden SUN 28 SEP STORY CAFÉ AT RIVERHOUSE BARN ARTS CENTRE Manor Road, Walton KT12 2NZ Time: 3pm Cost: £4 (£2 under 2s) Bring a cushion and a cuddly toy and enjoy creative storytelling and themed activities. 01932 254198 www.riverhousebarn.co.uk SAT 8 AND SUN 9 NOV INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS SHOW Evolution Centre, Battersea Park Meet over 190 of the UK’s leading nurseries, preparatory and senior schools. Gain a balanced understanding of the private school sector – quite possibly discovering the perfect school for your child – one that you may not have considered before visiting the show. The longest-running and most established exhibition of its type, it is a ‘must attend’ event for parents considering private education. Register for your complimentary tickets at www.schoolsshow.com

NEARLY NEW SALES MUM2MUM www.mum2mummarket.co.uk SURBITON SAT 20 SEP, 2-4PM St Marks Church Hall, St Marks Hill Surbiton KT6 4LS TEDDINGTON SAT 27 SEP, 10.30AM-12.30PM Elleray Hall, Elleray Road, Teddington TW11 0HG

THEATRE GUIDE PUPPET THEATRE Terrace Gardens, Richmond TW10 6UT Box Office 020 7249 6876, www.puppetbarge.com A CHILD’S GARDEN OF VERSE EVERY SAT AND SUN UNTIL 27 AND 28 SEP Shadow puppets and marionettes combine with specially composed music to make this a programme of beauty, poignancy and fun, which captures and nurtures the imagination. For Ages: 3+ THE ROSE THEATRE 24-26 High Street, Kingston KT1 1HL Box Office: 08444 821 556 www.rosetheatrekingston.org CAPTAIN FLINN AND THE PIRATE DINOSAURS SAT 13 AND SUN 14 SEP All aboard for a non-stop, action packed theatrical experience with live music, puppetry, physical performance and dastardly dinosaurs! Ignite your child’s imagination through the magic of theatre and story-telling. For Ages: 2+ WATERMANS 40 High Street, Brentford TW8 0DS Box Office: 020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk FISHY TALES SUN 21 SEP AT 3PM Puppets, music and storytelling, a captivating show for all the family. For Ages: 4-8 ART ‘N’ CRAFT FAMILY WOKRSHOP 2-2.45pm or 4-4.45pm £3 (Booking Required)

NCT www.nct.org.uk BYFLEET SAT 6 SEP, 2.30-4PM Byfleet Village Hall, 54 High Rd KT14 7QL KEW SAT 13 SEP, 10.30AM-12PM Barn Church, Atwood Ave, Kew TW9 4HF TWICKENHAM SAT 20 SEP, 10-11.30AM All Hallows Church, Erncroft Way, Twickenham TW1 1EN

THE POLKA THEATRE 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB Booking info: 020 8543 4888 www.polkatheatre.com WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT 24 SEP TO 12 OCT Michael Rosen’s thrilling and funny adventure comes to life in this entrancing puppetry production. For Ages: 3-7 SPARKLE 24 TO 28 SEP A gentle, interactive performance and play session for babies, toddlers and young children. For Ages: Sessions for 6mths-2yrs and 3-4yrs. GRANDAD, ME…AND TEDDY TOO 8 OCT TO 8 FEB A heart-warming story that celebrates the special role grandparents play in young children’s lives. With playful humour and original music, this charmingly-observed show is a magical family treat for all generations. For Ages: 2-5 THE UNICORN THEATRE 147 Tooley Street, Southwark SE1 2HZ Box Office: 020 7645 0560 www.unicorntheatre.com SEESAW 6 SEP-24 NOV For Ages: 2+ TALES FROM THE MP3 11-13 SEP For Ages: 13+ THE SECRET LIFE OF SUITCASES 18 SEP-12 OCT For Ages: 4+ SOMETHING VERY FAR AWAY 20-28 SEP For Ages: 8+ HOW NIGERIA BECAME: A STORY, AND A SPEAR THAT DIDN’T WORK 9 OCT-9 NOV For Ages: 8+ TRIPLE BILL 28-29 OCT For Ages: 8-12 NOSFERATU 30 OCT-2 NOV For Ages: 8+

KINGSTON SUN 21 SEP, 3-5PM Tolworth Recreation Centre, Fullers Way North Kingston KT6 7LQ WEYBRIDGE SAT 4 OCT, 10-11.30AM Christ the Prince of Peace Parish Hall, Portmore Way, Weybridge, KT13 8JD

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