Meridian February 2016 by Meridian Magazine

Meridian February 2016 ÂŁ1.00 Where Sold

Your Local What, Where and When Magazine

LOVE LOCAL

Spring Wedding Style Location to Dress

iAnL W ME

A FOR TWO AT ZEYTIN

HELLO This year we couldn’t let the February issue pass us by without a hat-tip to Valentine’s Day - what can we say, we are just a bunch of helpless romantics here at Meridian. If you have been shot with Cupid’s arrow and are one of the thousands of couples who got engaged over the Christmas or New Year - Congratulations. With you in mind we have (rather excitedly) put together a three page wedding feature to get you started on those big plans. We take a look at the choice of venues available locally, especially if you want to find a location that brings you the best of indoors and outdoors and where you can source everything you need from the cake to the bouquets, cufflinks to the Rolls Royce. If your wedding day is now a distant, but hopefully (still) a very happy memory, then you’ll appreciate our love letter to Greenwich. We delve into its romantic past, revisiting rousing letters and grand deeds of love from past Kings that will surely inspire even the laziest of lovers. If you do find your still in need of inspiration for Valentine’s Day, flick forward to our Food and Drink section. They are some fantastic deals to be snapped up, so no excuses not to treat your valentine this year!

Tamsyn Clark has been busy visiting Chislehurst and gives us the lo-down on where to head with two energetic and imaginative kids in tow. Featuring bears in a boat, obstacle courses and the obligatory duck feed, all topped off with a visit to a sweet shop (with a difference)! If you are parents, you’ll understand just how crucial education is to your child’s develop, no matter what age they are. This issue also includes our very popular education supplement. We hear from nurseries, prep, primary and secondary schools about the latest educational research, evidence and trends. Essential reading for all parents, and even parents-to-be. Don’t miss our Love local news, events and listings for the month ahead, free to enter competitions and much more. Enjoy the issue

The Meridian Team xx

INSIDE THIS ISSUE....

WEDDING SPECIAL P18-21

LOVE LOCAL P8

LAZY SUNDAY P29

GREENWICH, A FINE ROMANCE P28-29

BLACKHEATH P26

WHAT TO DO 50-53

Meridian MAGAZINE

F E B RUA RY 2 0 1 6 Publisher: Joy Johnston Editor: Valerie Breese Art & Production Director: Paul McPherson Display Sales: Cheryl Voller Emma Forbes Gary Smythson Classified Sales: Gary Smythson Social Media Melissa Wright Contributors: Claire McKinson James Haddrell Al Barker Tamsyn Clark Accounts: Janet Franklin Printing: Headley Brothers Ltd Distribution CWT Meridian Line Publishing Ltd 68 Summerhouse Drive, Bexley, Kent DA5 2EE Tel: 01322 557794 Email: enquiries@meridian-magazine.co.uk

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

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MeridianmagLDN Meridian Magazine is for you, published monthly and distributed to selected residential properties and businesses within the Royal Borough of Greenwich and in Blackheath, Westcombe Park, Charlton, Eltham, Lee, Hither Green, Bromley and Chislehurst. Copies also go to Greenwich Tourist Information Centre, libraries and leisure centres, pubs, restaurants and hotels. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part (including advertisement designs) without prior written permission will result in legal action. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily shared by the editor or the publisher.

Charlton Village becomes a vibrant hub in SE7

LOVE LOCA L

The residents of Charlton are witnessing a sea change in Charlton Village as new businesses arrive and those already there are being refurbished, giving the village a well-deserved facelift. Charlton Village a is steeped in history, with St. Luke’s Church being the burial place of the only British prime minister to be assassinated, Spencer Perceval. The fine Jacobean Charlton House opposite has a reputation for being one of the most haunted houses in the region and every Halloween offer tours by torchlight, if you dare. Charlton Village is surrounded by three parks; Charlton Park at the back of Charlton House is given over to weekend football matches, an out door gym and young children’s play area as well as home to the Riding for the Disabled paddock. Maryon Wilson Park is home to the horses of the Disabled Riding School and a collection of deer and other farm animals, while Maryon Park has tennis courts and a community garden.

Every village needs at least one pub and Charlton has two, The Bugle and The White Swan, which had been under threat of closure before new owners transformed into a more welcoming place with live music at times and a good supply of locally brewed beers. New businesses come in the form of Oasis Solicitors, in Meridian’s old offices, an Opticians iCare Optical and next to the St Luke’s Church, a menswear shop, Gentlemen’s Fitting Room. Opposite the church are three well-established, popular shops Tudor Rosette florist, The Baguette Café and the Village Greengrocer, all helping to increase the footfall in the village and keeping alive the independent shops and businesses that are the life blood of our local high streets.

DINNER FOR TWO

THE ZEYTIN RESTAURANT

Experience authentic Turkish food at the Zeytin Restaurant in Greenwich. This new restaurant has an excellent menu that includes all the old favourites and Zeytin special sharing platters from the grill.

White Swan

iCare Optical

Looking for a new suit for a special occasion. Tailored suits from the London Suit Co. 1969 and stylish New Oxford shirts for all occasions plus Gift vouchers available for Valentines from £100. www.gentlemensfittingroom.co.uk.

Geoff Keen, who also runs the Pelton Arms in Greenwich has taken over the White Swan and created a family friendly pub offering home cooked food, an ever-changing vast selection of real ale from local breweries, along with weekly entertainment. House beers are Pale and Fusilier supplied by Hot Stuff Brewery in Woolwich. Plus a Monday Club that offers discounts off real ales for its members.

Are you suffering from: Headaches, blurred vision, aching tired eyes, watery itchy eyes? Even if you are not aware of any problems you should have your eyes tested every 2 years. The eye test is a regular health check, which can detect underlying health problems as well as changes in your vision. Offers Free Eye Test plus 10% off if you mention Meridian.

020 3369 9007.1 1 The Village, Charlton SE7 8UG.

020 3417 5996. 22 The Village Charlton SE7 8UD

Gentlemen’s Fitting Room

www.ukicareoptical.com. 020 8856 6034. iCare Optical. 16 The Village, Charlton SE7 8UD

For a chance to win dinner plus wine for two up to the value of £70.00. To enter go to www.meridianmagazine.co.uk/win, or alternatively email your name, address and daytime number to competition@meridianmagazine.co.uk or send a postcard with your details to Meridian magazine, 68 Summerhouse Drive, Bexley Kent DA5 2EE.

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

www.devernois.fr

Elegant and eminently wearable, Devernoisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Spring 2016 collection brings genuine French style and cosmopolitan chic to your doorstep in Blackheath Village. Drop by today and experience something very different.

42 Tranquil Vale, Blackheath SE3 0BD (T) 020 8318 5998 Mon - Sat: 10am-6pm Sun: 11am - 4pm

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk | 7

Royal Greenwich, A Fine Romance

ME R IDIA N LOV E LO CAL

Ask any Londoner how they feel about Greenwich and they’ll tell you it’s unique, special and, frequently, romantic. They‘re right, of course, in all three assessments, but particularly in the last. Greenwich is inherently romantic. Perhaps it’s the juxtaposition of woods and water, of Greenwich Park and the river Thames that you find so rarely in other parts of the capital. Perhaps it’s the fact the one of the best ways to get here is by boat, a gloriously romantic journey, that gives it such an air of sentiment, who knows? Londoners have been visiting Greenwich for centuries, whether by boat, train, carriage or on foot and taking advantage of beautiful views and secluded walks by the river or in corners of the park. They wander aimlessly through Georgian streets, old established markets and ancient footpaths and greenery, often passionately, sometimes illicitly maybe? It’s entirely possible that Henry VIII was inspired by the surroundings of his Tudor palace in Greenwich to write expansive love letters, definitely illicitly, to Anne Boleyn in the 1500s. The Tudor palace of Placentia (or ‘pleasant place’) stood on the banks of the Thames where the Old Royal Naval College is today and Henry almost certainly spent a great deal of time there when he was beginning the relationship with Anne that would lead to the rift with the Vatican that, in turn, led to the foundation of the Church of England and, ultimately, to Anne’s untimely death. Early in 1527 he wrote to Anne: “MY MISTRESS & FRIEND, my heart and I surrender ourselves into your hands, beseeching you to hold us commended to your favour, and that by absence your affection to us may not be lessened: for it were a great pity to increase our pain, of which absence produces enough and more than I could ever have thought could be felt …”

Poor old Henry. He did tend to become afflicted by major crushes which got him into all sorts of trouble. Anne managed to remain aloof for a few more years before she finally gave in and married him on 25 January 1533. It didn’t last long – Henry moved on once he’d got what he wanted and Anne was imprisoned, on mostly spurious grounds, three years later and executed in May 1536, only nine years after Henry wrote the words above. Somewhat ironically, Henry’s billet-douxs to Anne are now stored in the Vatican library. But, before it all ended tragically, Greenwich Park was a favourite retreat for the couple, much as it is today for Greenwich residents, Londoners and visitors from all over the world. After all, what could be more romantic than a kiss across two hemispheres? Find out for yourself on the Meridian line at the Royal Observatory Greenwich where you can celebrate Valentine’s Day by joining east and west with love. If only it were always that easy. James I was another royal softie and we owe him the Queen’s House, that glorious Palladian mansion at the foot of the park, which was built after James lost his temper with his wife, Anne of Denmark, during a hunting trip. Anne accidentally shot James’s favourite dog, on a trip which we can only guess had started out as a kind of Jacobean sentimental journey. He swore at her in front of his entourage, an enormous breach of kingly etiquette, and to make up he gave her the land on which the house was built. Most of us would probably have settled for a bunch of flowers and an abject apology, but James was king of England and Scotland and did things a little differently. The Queen’s House celebrates its 400th anniversary this year and is halfway through being refurbished – it re-opens in the summer.

James I 300 years later, the First World War was in full, terrible spate when another burst of romance broke out in Woolwich, by way of a music hall ditty about lovers separated by the English Channel and the trenches. The song, She Works at Woolwich Arsenal Now, was re-discovered by the Woolwich Singers and tells the story of a wounded soldier in France who receives a letter from his sweetheart, who is making shells and bullets at Woolwich Arsenal, one of the biggest munitions factories in the world. The words are, well, stirring, if not classically romantic: “I work at Woolwich Arsenal now, “Give my message to your chums, “Girls are working ‘midst the shells and guns “Altho’ ‘tis tiring, as you’re requiring ammunition for the fighting line, “We’ll do our share for you out there.” Greenwich is ineffably, inescapably romantic. So share the romance of the past and present in Greenwich this Valentine’s, a romance that stretches back centuries and still, romantically, endures. Al Barker, Vist Greenwich www.visitgreenwich.org.uk

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

Alex Beckett Photography Limited www.alexbeckett.co.uk Phone: 07729977826

MERIDIA N W E DDIN GS

Best of both worlds We look at local wedding venue treasures, where couples getting hitched in spring or summer can make the most of the indoors and outdoors, without having to compromise… It may seem like there are a million decisions to make when planning your wedding or civil ceremony. It can all seem truly overwhelming when you first start out. But, there are just three very crucial choices to make when getting hitched: 1. The groom (or bride) 2. The dress 3. The venue (The order in which you preference them is entirely up to you). Once you’ve found your partner, and fallen head over heels for your dress, you need to decide on the venue. Some people will harness their whole wedding around their dream location, while others will want somewhere that is flexible enough for their theme. If you plan on a spring or summer wedding you may want to toy with tying the knot outside, along with some indoor space for later in the evening. Where ever you choose, remember that a lack of choice will never be a problem, especially if you are looking locally.

The Painted Hall, Greenwich

This historical landmark offers any couple timeless splendour. Not only does The Old Royal Naval College offer 360 degrees of stunning scenery, it is practically perched on top of the Thames. The Painted Hall itself is beautifully opulent and classically British. Just think of the photos!

Eltham Palace, Eltham

Great Gatsby, eat your heart out. If out and out glamour is the theme of the day, this art deco wonder comes complete with English Heritage status and a choice of rooms. The Great Hall even extends directly out onto their lawns - so you can continue the party outside when the weather is gracious.

Cutty Sark, Greenwich

Looking for something a little less conventional? Then come aboard. The Cutty Sark’s Tween Deck and Dry Berth are licensed for civil ceremonies and can hold receptions too. So you can dine beneath the hull of the tea clipper, while feeling you are outside. And the ship is as stunning (if not more) at night as it is by day.

Trinity Buoy Wharf, Docklands

As the location of London’s only lighthouse, and placed directly across the river from the o2, it’s already pretty unique. With so much to explore on-site, including fascinating art projects such as Longplayer, your guests will most definitely remember this day, (it’s still one of best weddings I have ever been to). You could even pitch up to the reception by boat!

The Hop Farm, Kent

If you’re happy to explore a little further into Kent, then this idyllic setting has plenty of indoor and outdoor options. They have a wonderful lawn area, called the Garden Gazebo, where you can hold both the ceremony and the reception, between April to September. The Hop Farm is also home to the largest collection of Victorian Oast houses in the world, what could be more quintessentially Kentish?

Other options…

Also take a look at Devonport House, Greenwich Tavern and the Peter Harrison Planetarium in Greenwich Mycenae House and the Clarendon Hotel, Blackheath Eltham College or Dulwich College or Pale and Interesting - The Venue, and The Wise Wedding Venue, both in Kent

M E RID IA N W EDDINGS

Wedding List

The Bickley pub garden

Something new

Congratulations, if you’ve just got engaged! Planning your perfect wedding day can be both fun and exciting, but it’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the different options out there. Knowing where to start is actually quite a big challenge...

The latest designed wedding dresses for 2016 include this from Amanda Wyatt, with her range: Promises of Love. Promise is shown here in ivory/mocha. This delicate lace bodice has seed pearls and beading enhancing it, while the 14 yards of chiffon for the skirt give the dress a luxurious look and feel.

www.bellamore.co.uk 020 8 8298 1978 Bell’ Amore 240-242 Broadway Bexleyheath DA6 8AS

Here is a selection of local businesses that can help For him – something blue Taking inspiration from the world of futurism and art deco, these cufflinks are made of rhodium plated embellished with blue Swarovski crystals.

£50.00. www.simoncarter.net. 020 8683 4475 Simon Carter, 9 Tranquil Vale, Blackheath SE3 0BU.

Arrive in style

Catch the perfect bouquet

From the truly classic 1962 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud to a modern Mercedes Limousine, there’s a car for every bride and every budget.

Flowers perform a central role in creating both a personal and sophisticated wedding experience. Original and unique design reflects the individual style and character of the bride & groom, whether in large and lavish or intimate and romantic settings.

www.aaexecutiveweddingcars.co.uk. 020 8308 1500. AA Executive Cars, 4 Arlington Close, Sidcup DA15 8JW

Karen Woolven Kwfloraldesign.co.uk. 020 8858 1112. Flowers at Greenwich  18 Royal Hill, Greenwich SE10 8RT

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

Something old Get the Period look with this ‘Downton Abbey Style’ wedding choker - pearl and diamanté.

£45 www.dragonflylifestyle.co.uk. 0208 858 4445 Dragonfly Lifestyle, 6 Turnpin Lane, Greenwich SE10 9JA

Bespoke elsie shoe All Hetty Rose shoes are made to order in your size, taking between 6-8 weeks to cut, stitch and make each pair.  You can choose from a delightful selection of vintage Japanese kimono fabrics, or a leather/other fabric of your choice.

£525.00. By appointment only www.hettyrose.co.uk. 07905083745

Flawless proposal Flawless Jewellery’s new proposal ring service is designed to take the stress out of engagement ring shopping.

Weddings at Locale

The concept is simple: Choose a Proposal Ring visit, email or phone. Pop the question and wait for the Yes! Come in with your new fiancée to arrange your Forever ring. Either choose one of our designs or have something designed for you all set to your specific budget.

www.flawless-jewellery.co.uk 020 8467 5862 Green Lane, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 6AQ

Shelly Cakes Shelly Cakes have a fantastic range of wedding cakes and celebration cakes on display at their showroom. Whether you are looking for a traditional elegant cake or a contemporary chic design, we have the perfect cake waiting for you.

By appointment only www.shelleyscakes.com 020 8325 6930

Getting married is a very special occasion at Locale, Blackheath. We can help you manage your day from the initial enquiry through to the Wedding Day. With the assistance of our Wedding Co-coordinator and our experienced team of staff, we can help you create a truly memorable Wedding Reception. We go above and beyond, assisting with everything from menu planning, room décor, table plans and much more. Helping to make your special day truly exquisite and above all personal. Choose from our glamorous Olive Room, which can host an intimate wedding for up to 45 guests, or alternatively hire out our stunning first floor restaurant and bar for up to 120 guests. To find our more or to make an enquiry, email the restaurant at: www. localerestaurants.com. 020 8852 0700. 1 Lawn Terrace, Blackheath SE3 9LJ Twitter @locale_bh Facebook: Locale Blackheath Instagram: localeblackheath www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

M E R IDIA N PRO PERT Y

Kidbrooke Village Limited number of ‘Discount Market Sale’ properties available Perspective home owners, who work or live in the Royal Borough of Greenwich could be eligible for 30% off of a Berkeley Homes property at Kidbrooke Village, through the ‘Discount Market Sale’ scheme. Kidbrooke Village is located in one of London’s most popular locations, the Royal Borough of Greenwich, and comprises of four distinct neighbourhoods, integrated seamlessly into one community. Which includes, Meridian Gate, Blackheath Quarter, Kidbrooke Village Centre and City Point. It is at Meridian Gate where a limited number of these one-bedroom ‘Discount Market Sale’ properties are available. Lyndon Nunn, Sales Director at Berkeley Homes, said: “This scheme, in partnership with the Royal Borough of Greenwich, will allow aspiring homeowners to get onto the property ladder and buy a luxury Berkeley Home.” Berkeley Homes prides itself on its attention to detail throughout the internal and external design

of their properties, and with prices starting from £327,500*, eligible applicants could soon be living in a spacious one bedroom property with a balcony or terrace for only £229,250*. Other additional benefits include a 24 hour concierge service and access to a residents-only landscaped area. These beautiful new homes are already served by a number of key amenities such as a Sainsbury’s local, café, dentist and doctors’ surgery, access to local schools (including two located on site), there are also excellent transport links from Kidbrooke Station, making a trip to London Bridge accessible in just 15 minutes. For those looking to explore the area, specially created pedestrian and cycle routes run through Kidbrooke Village, set within 136 acres of open space, while Blackheath Village is just a short walk away. To qualify for one of the discount market sale apartments within Kidbrooke Village, applicants

must be a resident or employed within the Royal Borough of Greenwich; earn a gross annual household income which does not exceed £66,000; be unable to purchase a suitable home to meet their housing needs on the open market; not already own a home and be the owner occupier of the new property.

Terms and Conditions will apply. Please call a member of the sales team to find out more information on 020 3432 3785 *When purchasing, you pay a capped sum equal to 70% of the open market value of the property. The remaining 30% will be held in perpetuity by the Royal Borough of Greenwich.

M E RID IA N PRO PERT Y

BICKLEY – £899,000

CHAIN FREE - Discreetly tucked away at the top of this imposing detached Grade II listed Edwardian Arts and Crafts house, sits this 4 bed penthouse conversion apartment with a wonderful private decked terrace and many contemporary features. Just 0.5 and 0.8 of a mile from Elmstead Woods and Chislehurst stations. Communal hallway with its original fireplace and stained glass windows. Impressive sitting room with French doors to the terrace on one side. Fabulous kitchen open plan to the dining area. The master bedroom has good storage and a wonderful contemporary designed en suite bathroom. High specification family bathroom serving the further 3 bedrooms Cellar storeroom. Garage en bloc and parking. EPC rating E.

MOTTINGHAM - £600,000

In a pleasant road less than 1/2 a mile from Mottingham village centre and Eltham College this spacious and well appointed 4 bed Edwardian house features a good sized lounge with attractive bay window at the front, a dining room as well as a cloaks/utility room which is fitted with a modern white suite. Fantastic fitted kitchen/breakfast room. Pleasant garden mainly laid to lawn with well stocked borders and a pleasant southerly aspect. Just over 1/2 a mile from Mottingham station. EPC rating D

Wanted, Your Home! This is our busiest time of year for new buyers registering, so we are always in need of more homes to sell. If you would like a free valuation on your property do please give us a call, we would love to help.

CHELSFIELD PARK – £1,950,000

Stunning NEW BUILD family home c.5262 sq ft (inc dble gge), on a plot approaching 0.5 acres and benefitting from a superb south west facing rear garden extending to over 200’. Large kitchen/breakfast/family room with French doors to the patio, 3 further reception rooms. 6 beds, the master suite including an en-suite bathroom and dressing room, plus three further en-suites. A very impressive house on one of the Park’s most favoured roads. Chelsfield station approx. 10 min walk, trains to London Bridge from 21 mins. EPC rating B.

Feel free to contact Richard Piddock or Jonathon de Maid for any further help or to arrange a free valuation of your home. Richard can be contacted at Blackheath 020 8463 0091 richard@jdmestateagents.com Jonathon at Chislehurst 020 8325 8000 jonathon@jdmestateagents.com

CHISLEHURST - £425,000

A delightful end of terrace period cottage, with lovely views overlooking common just 0.5 of a mile from Chislehurst station and approximately 0.7 of a mile from the High Street. Lounge with contemporary feature fireplace, fitted kitchen/dining room overlooking the court yard. To the first floor there are 2 beds and a recently refurbished stunning bathroom with a stylish freestanding bath and a separate shower cubicle. Small courtyard. This property is a delight and you will enjoy your viewing. EPC rating D.

Established 1996

ELMSTEAD WOODS - £500,000

A great property for all you commuters out there. Just 0.2 miles from Elmstead Woods station, is this 2 bed, 2 bath, ground floor apartment with its own private patio. Built just 10 years ago and having had a new kitchen in a shaker style with a stainless steel oven and induction hob with state of the art extractor fan. The bathrooms, one being an ensuite shower room are contemporary in design with tiled floors and the master bedroom has bespoke fitted wardrobes. Underfloor heating throughout . A lovely apartment. Chain Free. EPC rating C. Blackheath 020 8463 0091

Locksbottom 01689 880440

Bromley 020 8313 6800

Petts Wood 01689 819819

Chislehurst 020 8325 8000

Lettings 01689 838040

ME RID IA N PRO PERT Y

Property Owner? If you are a property owner, Sharmila Patel of Beverley Morris & Co. has some crucial updates that you should be aware of:

Minimum Energy Efficiency

Immigration Status Rear Extensions’ Certain residential property owners were able to carry out larger single storey rear and side extensions (within prescribed limits) without the need for planning permission until May 2016 provided they followed a consultation procedure. This deadline has now been extended for a further three years until 30 May 2019.

From 1 February 2016 if you are a landlord of residential property you will need to start carrying out checks on identity documents for all adult prospective tenants and other permitted occupiers to ensure that they have a right to be in the UK and to rent your property. The obligation to check will continue throughout the duration of the tenancy and you face liability to a penalty of up to £3,000 per illegal occupant for non-compliance.

As of 1 April 2018, landlords of commercial and residential property will be unable to grant or renew tenancies where the property requires an Energy Performance Certificate (‘EPC’) unless the property is an EPC rating of “E” or above. The requirement will also apply to existing commercial tenancies as of 1 April 2023 and existing residential tenancies as of 1 April 2020. Unless an exemption applies, noncompliance leaves you liable to a fine of up to a maximum of £150,000 for commercial lettings and a maximum of £5,000 for residential lettings. Authorities can also publish information regarding non-compliance which could affect your reputation.

ME RID IA N HEALT H

Is snoring affecting your relationship and health? Snoring can put a real strain on relationships. Kevin’s wife Louise, a patient of ours, approached us about his snoring. “I’m worried he will die in the night! His snoring wakes up the whole house. Then he chokes and doesn’t breathe at all for long periods. He’s always tired and irritable. His complexion is grey. He looks awful.” We regularly hear stories of couples no longer sharing a bedroom or even separating due to snoring. Snoring is often linked with sleep apnoea, periods when there is no breathing during sleep. The ensuing symptoms can include waking still tired despite a night’s sleep, waking with a dry mouth or sore throat, extreme sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, headaches and not surprisingly, irritability. Although most people see snoring to be just a social problem, when associated with sleep apnoea, there can be serious medical connotations.

Kevin has now been wearing one of Professor L’Estrange’s oral appliances for two months. Louise says “The whole family sleeps better, not just Kevin. His face is a healthy pink again. He is much less irritable too!”

Professor Peter L’Estrange, a leading dental expert in the field of snoring and sleep apnoea, has over the past two decades had great success using conservative non-surgical approaches.

Kevin says “I know I was grumpy before. I don’t feel washed out in the morning. I never thought a dentist could help me with this. I’m amazed that so many people I talk to are affected by snoring or apnoea, so I’m telling them about Professor L’Estrange at Finn Dental Specialists.”

This may mean simply wearing a custom made oral appliance to bed. Others respond to comfortable devices which open the nasal airway. Whilst wearing a pressurised air mask to bed can help, many people do not need or want this. All too often this is all they are offered, when a simpler solution would work.

Finn Dental Specialists, Backwoods, Kelsey Lane, Beckenham, Kent BR3 3NE Tel: 020 8658 1230 www.finndentalspecialists.com

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

Maze Hill

M E R IDIA N HEALT H

The Soft Option

Banish hard water and say hello to big savings… and an easier, healthier life

Your stunning designer bathroom and kitchen will look amazing only for as long as it takes for the effects of hard water to show. The glass shower enclosure becomes dull, the showerhead clogs and the stainless steel u its lose their shine. All this leads to hours of extra cleaning with harsh chemicals in an effort to recapture the original look. Hard water, so called because of the quantities of dissolved minerals it contains, is ubiquitous in London and the south east and gives rise to a number of problems – from unsightly watermarks to unseen damage to domestic appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, irons and kettles. Hard water can also affect our hair and skin: when we wash, it leaves a residue that eads to dull, lifeless and unmanageable hair and can exacerbate skin conditions such as eczema. When hard water is heated, dissolved calcium and magnesium forms scale in pipes, which in addition to narrowing and potentially clogging the pipes, prevents efficient heat transfer. A water heater with just 6mm of scale will increase the cost of water heating by 50%.

A Twin Tec S3 water softener rids your hard water of unwanted minerals ad unpleasant side effects. And unlike other home improvements, the savings provided by a water softener mean that it can pay for itself within two to four years.

How is hard water softened?

The Twin Tec S3 water softener removes dissolved minerals by passing water through millions of resin beads. The minerals are attracted to the resin and are left behind when the water passes through the system, coming out completely free of ‘hardness’. The resin is then washed clean by a ‘regeneration’ process whereby a brine solution is passed through it, flushing the hard minerals to the drain and leaving the resign refreshes and ready to attract more hard minerals.

The Twin Tec S3 is capable of handling the needs of up to ten people.

Where can I locate the water softener?

A cupboard below the kitchen sink is the most common site for placing the Twin Tec S3 water softener; here it can be easily attached to the incoming mains water pipe. All the water coming into the house goes through the water softener before continuing through to the rest of the house. As the system needs to drain, the unit can share the same drain as the sink. An overflow outlet is required for safety reasons and the sink drain can also be used for this. If using the kitchen is inconvenient for any reason, the Twin Tec S3 can just as easily be positioned in a garage, or outside in a discreet waterproofed enclosure.

Why choose a Twin Tec S3 water Does softened water taste salty? softener? No, salt is not added to the water. The salt is The Twin Tec S3 is a non-electrical water operated system. The obvious difference between an ordinary softener and the Twin Tec S3 is that the Twin Tec S3 has two cylinders rather than one. This makes the regeneration process much more efficient. The Twin Tec S3 uses the flow of water to operate the control module, which manages fluctuations in water demand in the household. There is no need for an electrical supply, or a programming system or, indeed, any maintenance – other than keeping it topped up with blocks of salt. The quantity of salt you need depends on the level of your water usage.

used to create a brine solution and flush the resin through to get rid of the hard minerals that have been removed from the water. It does, however make sense to retain a drinking water pipe before it reaches the water softener. With a softener and a hard water mains tap you have the best of all possible options.

For more information contact: Meridian Water Softeners

01322 557794 www.twintec.com www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

ME R IDIA N LOV E LO CAL

Lazy Sunday in Chislehurst… If you are looking for a way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon with the kids, why not venture to Chislehurst and enjoy their ponds, green spaces, children’s play park and the wonderful Commons? Tamsyn Clark gives you the lowdown on what to enjoy and where to go with the kids in tow.

We suggest you start by parking up at the Library car park on Red Hill, which is free on Sundays, so it’s an easy choice. From the car park, head onto the small lane attached to the car park and make your way over to the Rec, situated behind the main high street. It’s a very short walk past the local tennis courts and the football ground to the children’s play park. This is a great location for the kids to let off some steam and enjoy the facilities. Whilst it isn’t huge, this park, in my view, has everything your little ones could possibly need. From the usual swings, slide, and see-saw, to the less conventional zip slide and obstacle trail; and all within a lovely setting, close to the high street. From the park, we take a stroll through Walden Woods to find the Bears, all whilst quoting from Michael Rosen’s classic, “We are going on a Bear Hunt”. Here you will find some majestic-looking bears rowing a small boat! These bears and the wonderful play park fall under the care of the Friends of Chislehurst & Walden Recreation Ground. The group was formed in 2010 to preserve and enhance the environment of the recreation grounds for the benefit of the local community. They regularly fund new play facilities for children to enjoy in the park, organise local clear ups in the Rec, plus they are the driving force behind the local family festival, Chislehurst Rocks, which takes place in Walden Recreation Ground in June. Once we have been to see the Bears, we head back to the top of Red Hill and down towards the

town and main high street. Depending on your children, you can enjoy some of the local shops and cafes, including the luxury gift emporium, Annabel’s II (one for the Mums whilst Dad entertains the kids at the pond) or if the kids have been super good, we recommend a trip to Sweet Sundae: a wonderful traditional sweet shop crammed to the rafters with the best sweets and candy you can imagine. It really is kiddy heaven. From here, cross the road to enjoy the spectacular Prickend Pond – this is one of Chislehurst’s most prominent landmarks and it is a great setting with small children. Ours are 5 and 2 so there is enough to entertain. From feeding the ducks to shoo-ing pidgeons – the latter being my children’s favourite activity! Prickend Pond and much of the Commons in Chislehurst fall under the care of the Trustees of Chislehurst Commons. Whilst they do receive a grant from Bromley Council, for two-thirds of its running costs and much of its conservation work they rely on The Friends of The Commons, an organisation of over 600 local people who fundraise or volunteer. They also ask that you don’t overfeed the ducks as leftover bread can increase the presence of rats in the area. Duck feed can be purchased from a lovely independent wine merchant, Champion Wines, across the road from the pond. After 30 minutes spent feeding the ducks, we head towards the Commons themselves. It is a great little walk as you can pass through the woods which are spectacularly lit on a sunny day. Plus, the kids

can hide off the path, climb the odd tree and are on constant look-out for dragons and Bears (active imagination our two…) On exitng the woods, you do have to cross a busy main road but once you are across, it is a hop, skip and a jump before you are at the Commons themselves, enjoying the great vistas. The open space allows the children to run free and before long they are heading straight to the cockpit. Whilst cock-fighting was banned in 1834, the hollow dip still remains and is the perfect natural playground for the children. Our children love to roll down the sides of the pit but they must be appropriately dressed for this activity! During the warmer months, you see many families enjoying a few drinks (from the Crown Pub nearby) whilst watching their children play. This is a great afternoon out with the children, enjoying the simple pleasures in life. It is buggy and mostly scooter friendly but also it isn’t a huge distance with children, which makes this a relaxing afternoon with the kids, entertained by their natural surroundings and enjoying the semi-rural feel of beautiful Chislehurst. For more information on Chislehurst, take a look at www.visitchislehurst.org.uk Written by Tamsyn Clark Photographs by Mark Grover

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When should children learn to read? At Greenwich Steiner School, formal literacy learning starts when children are 6 years old. Whilst this is fairly normal in most European countries, it is often surprising to our parents here in the UK. But why is this? We believe that there are lots of other skills children need before beginning to read and write, including social and emotional ones. Spending time developing friendships, overcoming hurdles, even creating art or simply exploring the world of make believe. These are important foundational steps for the formal learning that begins later on. From an early age, our children hear fairy-tales, folk stories, nursery rhymes and tales from Nature. This way they get exposed to a rich diet of complex sounds and language – which comes truly alive in their imagination. It’s a bit like learning to crawl before you can walk or learning to write before you learn to type. The strong oral tradition in the classroom means that by the time formal learning truly begins, children can already recite sophisticated prose and verse completely by heart. The spoken word as experienced through the repetition of stories, songs and poetry, adds to their impressive vocabulary and is a key preparatory stage in learning to read and write.

towards reading that some children who have learnt to read very early can sometimes have. Based on a model of child development, the internationally renowned Waldorf curriculum offers an unhurried approach, building important foundations for future success. What else makes us stand out from the crowd? We also foster strong teacher pupil relationships – children have the same class teacher from age 7-11 years and 12-14 years. We are committed to offering a diverse curriculum covering all subjects from the national curriculum, together with lessons in French, German, stringed musical instruments, movement, gardening and games. When it’s time to leave our school, our children are confident, sociable and able young people, well-equipped to move on successfully to mainstream or other Steiner schools. Taking into account each stage of child development, we teach children in an order and with methods that best suit their age. If you like the sound of an education where learning is something to truly experience and savour, why not consider visiting us at our next Open Morning on Saturday 12th March and find out more? www.greenwichsteinerschool.org.uk/open-days

Research also suggests that children who learn to read earlier, do not actually do better later on in their school life. However, children who engage in developmentally appropriate activities and experience learning in an unhurried, enjoyable way, have a far better relationship to the world of academia. Often much more self-motivated, they are also less likely to develop the “tiredness”

Performing Arts If your child likes the idea of street dance, drama games, singing the latest songs and musical theatre, look no further than LCN performing arts – one of South London’s most popular performing arts companies for 3 to 15 year olds! With a firm emphasis on fun and variety, we’ve been running weekly Saturday morning performing arts classes for over 9 years. These are held at the brilliant dance/drama studios of St Matthew Academy. This year, it is LCN’s 10th birthday (!) – we’re exceptionally proud of our fun, friendly classes and loyal, consistent staff. Laura Joyes is a qualified primary and drama teacher and has her ISTD in dance. She has taught at Pineapple Performing Arts School and in many local primary schools both state and private.

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SPORTING SUCCESS AT FARRINGTONS

Fantastic February at Faraday! Faraday Prep School has another exciting term ahead. The year kick-started with a Welcome Back disco, a football tournament and visits to the British Museum. Science week looks set to be a blast (quite literally!) and the annual art exhibition will showcase all pupils’ work throughout the school. In the curriculum, Faraday follows the Core Knowledge approach. This term, the lower school will be learning about the 7 continents, prime ministers, the weather and the Impressionists, amongst other things. Meanwhile the upper school will be studying a wide range of topics, including poetry, data collection, electricity, the Stuarts and Eastern Europe. Faraday School prides itself on providing a traditional education in a creative environment. After-school clubs include sewing, chess, choir, guitar, karate, coding, drawing, dance, Mandarin and cooking, to name just a few. Meanwhile the school bus service has 18 different stops, including south of the river. Faraday aims to have small classes to ensure all pupils receive individual attention. It is this nurturing environment that particularly appeals to parents. Faraday parent Geeta Kasanga explained: “The school has given my son the brilliant start that I had hoped for. The teachers are superb and very professional. I highly recommend this amazing gem tucked away at Trinity Buoy Wharf.” www.faradayschool.co.uk

Breaside Celebrates Outstanding Examination Results Breaside Preparatory School prepares pupils from 2½ to 11 years for both Grammar and Independent Senior Schools in a caring and nurturing environment. Once again, SATs and 11+ entry results for 2015 were outstanding, with 100% of Year 6 pupils gaining their first choice at Senior School. Should I choose Breaside Preparatory School for my child? As the name suggests, the role of preparatory schools is to prepare your child for their entrance into senior education, so don’t be surprised to see a plethora of subjects on the curriculum. Your child will experience a well-rounded education albeit in a nurturing environment. Classes are significantly smaller, allowing all pupils to progress. At the same time, this allows all staff to know their pupils and therefore offer a bespoke curriculum. Self-confidence is encouraged and children are constantly motivated to enjoy and embrace all the opportunities that arise within this positive learning environment. Should you choose a preparatory school for your child? Well, if you want to give them the best possible start in life, then the answer has to be yes. The investment will pay off as you see your child blossom into a well-rounded, self-confident, individual, ready to face the world! For more information or a personal tour of the School and Kindergarten please call 020 8460 0916, info@breaside.co.uk, www.breaside.co.uk

Sport is flourishing at Farringtons and pupils are encouraged to take part in a wide range of sports and activities. The PE Department thrives on giving pupils the opportunity to enrich their physical development and be positive about what they can achieve. As well as early morning running and swimming clubs, pupils can take part in lunchtime sports clubs, matches and practices during and after school. Fixtures and inter-house team matches are organised independently of clubs. School teams compete successfully in local and county events and talented individuals are encouraged to pursue their sporting skills to the highest standard. Although close to London, the School is fortunate enough to have outstanding sports facilities including 25 acres of playing fields and excellent indoor facilities, including a Sports Hall, Dance Studio and Fitness Suite. Farringtons caters for a wide range of talents and the enthusiastic teachers urge all pupils to find activities they really enjoy and at which they can excel. For further information about Farringtons School, please visit their website, ; www.farringtons.org.uk.

ROBERT MORLEY & CO. LTD Visit Morleys to view and play their extensive range of upright and grand pianos including C. Bechstein, Bechstein, Zimmermann, Grotrian-Steinweg, Weber, Bentley, W. Hoffmann and others. Call 020 8318 5838 for details on sales, home rental, restoration, repair and tuning services. Piano and Harpsichord Factory Showroom & Workshops 34 Engate Street, Lewisham, London. SE13 7HA. www.morleypianos.com Tel: 020 8318 5838 sales@morleypianos.co.uk

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Benefits of an all-girls education With so many excellent schools available, choosing between single-sex or co-educational establishments is often the first way of narrowing the selection. This may be based simply on a gut feeling or long-held preference. Girls’ schools can often be labelled incorrectly as ‘disadvantaging students’ or providing an ‘unnatural environment away from boys’ or an ‘artificially safe bubble’. This is far from the truth. Being an all-girls’ school doesn’t mean her education or personal development will be diminished – far from it. The single-sex environment allows girls to flourish, free from stereotypes and distractions found in a co-educational setting. A growing body of research suggests that girls learn differently and mature faster than boys. Teachers can therefore establish effective learning environments for groups that learn in a similar way, rather than having to adopt a varied approach that caters for both genders. In many cases, including at Cobham Hall, girls have the chance to socialise with boys in a variety of external settings, including workshops, sports events, and conferences whilst still reaping the benefits of an all-girls environment in the classroom. In a world where society still perpetuates the sexualisation of the female form, and truly inspirational female role models are a rarity, an all-girls’ school encourages young girls to learn that they can be anything they want to be – whether that is the more traditional roles, or becoming high-flyers in maledominated professions such as business, politics, science, medicine or even sport. Socially, in those confusing early teenage years, girls can be nurtured in an environment where everyone is having the same experience and emotions. Free to be themselves, without feeling pressure to conform or impress, girls

gain the confidence to try new things more readily and are more willing to be competitive. Most importantly, they have the opportunities to develop skills often suppressed elsewhere for fear of being labelled; leadership, without being labelled ‘bossy’, compassion, without being labelled ‘soft’ and sporting excellence, without being labelled a ‘tomboy’. At an all-girls’ school, education can be truly tailored to the individual and girls are encouraged to follow their own dreams and career aspirations, whatever they may be, without restriction or fear of being judged. This is why we, at Cobham Hall, truly believe that by being in an all-girls’ school, our students – your daughters – can explore their full potential, and discover that there is ‘more in them than they think’. www.cobhamhall.com

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Athletes, Actors, Academics and Adventurers

Another year of superb results (88% A*-B at A level and 74% A*-A at GCSE) placed Bromley High School 79th in the UK in ‘The Sunday Times Parent Power’ league tables. These outstanding results enabled students to take up places at Cambridge, Imperial, UCL, Durham, Bristol, Warwick and many other Russell Group universities with other leavers gaining places at Medical Schools and Art Foundation courses including at the prestigious Central St Martin’s. For the second year running a Bromley High student was honoured with a Salters’ Award for the second highest Chemistry A level performance in the country. Girls continued to excel on the Games field with U16s crowned outdoor and indoor Kent County Hockey Champions. The team was placed 3rd in the East of England at the regional finals in December and one of this all conquering team has been selected for the England hockey joining the ranks of our national representatives in diving, swimming, rowing, biathlon and tennis. Teams from both Years 7 and 9 became Bromley Cross Country Champions and one of our Y6 girls, Lily Meers, was placed 3rd in the UK U11 Biathlon Finals. Reflecting its commitment to girls’ sport, Bromley High opened a fitness suite to allow Sixth Form girls to develop a life-long habit of enjoyment of healthy exercise. The end of term featured a spectacular all singing and dancing production of the hit ‘High School Musical’ with superb performances from the leads and more than fifty of our new Year 7 girls throwing themselves into the role of cheerleaders in their first term in the school. Year 5 girls took inspiration for their own Christmas production by their trip to see one of their classmates, Evie Hone, wowing West End audiences in the lead role in ‘Matilda’. Tilly Keeper (U6 2015), a member of last year’s Head Girl’s Team, has been cast in a starring role in ‘Eastenders.’ An accomplished actor and mainstay of many school productions, Tilly is playing Louise Mitchell, daughter of Phil Mitchell and Lisa Fowler, and is set to make a huge impact on the BBC’s most successful soap. Members of this year’s World Challenge Expedition spent several exhilarating weeks in Madagascar and the school’s commitment to building resilience inside and outside the classroom was rewarded with four Gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards. This term, Computer Scientists and Business and Economics students will be venturing to San Francisco and Silicon Valley, Physicists to see the Hadron Collider in Cern, Skiers to Tremblant in Canada and Musicians to Prague. Angela Drew, Headmistress, Bromley High School www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net @bromley hs

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Nappy changing and world peace? How we care for young children determines how they, as adults, will care for themselves and others. Dr Emmi Pikler, internationally renowned Hungarian paediatrician developed an exemplary approach to child care, based on respect and kindness and a new understanding of the importance of self-initiated movement and play. The Pikler approach is the new bench mark for early childhood care for the 21st century. We cannot afford to ignore it. In the UK, we have been slow to wake up to the importance of the Pikler approach. However, now a Pikler conference and a new Pikler training are happening in London. Can you afford to miss these important events? Anna Tardos, President of the Pikler Loczy Association, Hungary is the key note speaker at the Pikler conference in London in February 2016. In addition, two international Pikler pedagogues will come to the UK to lead a new BASIC TRAINING COURSE in Greenwich, London , starting April 2016. The training is suitable for professionals in all early childhood care settings as well as childminders, parental support professionals and parents. The Pikler approach, we believe, significantly contributes to future peace in the world. More information and booking forms are on www.pikler.co.uk info@pikler.co.uk

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Raising Standards Through Trusted Methods:

Good Schools Guide Award for Sydenham High Sydenham High has won a gold 2015 Good Schools Guide Award for girls taking computer studies at GCSE. The school has been presented with the award by The Good Schools Guide for out-performing all other English schools in its category. The prestigious annual awards, which are now in their 9th year, are based on a detailed analysis of the most recent examination results, and are designed to highlight consistently good teaching. Sydenham High has embraced the Government’s introduction of a new computer science curriculum and has launched the computing curriculum at Key Stage 3. The scheme of work explores areas such as digital literacy, skills and careers.

Royal Arsenal Psychological Services RAPS is founded and delivered by Dr. Anindita Sarkar. This is a comprehensive psychological service based in Royal Arsenal (Greenwich), providing expert assessment and treatment for children, young people and adults. Dr. Anindita Sarkar is a senior, experienced clinical psychologist working in the NHS since 2001 with a wealth experience of working with mental health, behavioural problems, neurodevelopmental and learning disabilities across the life span. Since 2010, she has specialized in child and adolescent mental health and worked in NHS child and adolescent mental health services; provided mental health provision in primary and secondary schools; medical and behavioural pupil referral units; delivered specialist autism and ADHD assessments. Moreover, as a senior clinical psychologist since 2012, she delivers a wide range of evidence-based

The curriculum is designed to help the girls become creators of tech, instead of just consumers. It will also better equip them for the real world of work and industry – especially as women are currently underrepresented in the tech arena. Headteacher Mrs Kathryn Pullen said: “We are absolutely delighted to be acknowledged for our excellence in teaching computer studies. The UK’s tech scene is booming and skilled employees are in demand. We therefore want to ensure that our girls are ready and able to take advantage of the opportunities that brings.” www.www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net. treatments in accordance with National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE), which enables her to work flexibly and tailor to your individual (child, adolescent and adult)/family/school needs. Moreover, she is an experienced supervisor and has considerable leadership, service development, teaching and training experiences. She is chartered with the BPS and registered with the HCPC. You can check her registration on www.bps.org.uk and www.hpcheck.org. She is also a BUPA and VitalityHealth recognised provider and part of their Practitioner Networks. Professional Support: Training, Consultancy and Supervision also offered to educational establishments and other agencies tailoring the needs to specific target groups e.g., managing anxiety, understanding selfharm etc. Supervision offered to psychologists, psychotherapists and counsellors. A full range assessments and treatments for children and adolescents can be found at the RAPS website below. www.raps.solutions www.facebookcom royalarsenalpsychologicalservices. Please contact Dr. Anindita Sarkar directly either on 07801366837 or aninditasarkaruk@yahoo.co.uk to discuss further.

The Pointer School continues to be one of the most talked about schools in London with its very strong reputation for pastoral care, academic excellence, before and after school care, an exciting Holiday Club (open in all the school holidays), organic produce (direct from our linked farm in Suffolk) many extracurricular clubs (35 at the last count, ranging from Horse-riding to Rock Climbing) and small class sizes (average 17). The spiritual side is also well catered for, in that the teachings of the Christian faith are promoted throughout its school. Since September, 2015 the Year 6’s have been progressing through a series of entrance exams with interviews and scholarship tests taking place. For many, this is a new experience and one which can at first seem a burden, yet this doesn’t have to be. Liaising with parents, knowledge of secondary schools and managing expectations ensures that many challenges are overcome. Ultimately, every child gets a place at one of their chosen secondary schools. Last year, the students had multiple offers, with a total of twenty-five scholarships achieved. The outlook for the current ten and eleven year olds is positive as the selection process is once again nearly complete. For the next six months they can really enjoy life in Year 6, with residential trips and productions coming up, and their schools bags, for once, feeling just a little bit lighter. www.pointers-school.co.uk

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Monkey Music Pre-school music classes for children aged 3 months-4 years. If you’re looking for a fun and stimulating activity for your baby or preschool child, Monkey Music is the class for you. By singing songs – original and traditional, using actions and engaging with colourful props and percussion instruments, children build confidence, improve their vocabulary and coordination, and develop vital life skills. Classes are also designed to encourage positive communication between parent and child, as well as nurture a lifetime love of music. ‘My son usually goes to Monkey Music with our nanny, and they love it. A few weeks ago I had the chance to take my son there myself. Rebecca is absolutely amazing; I have never seen a group of 1-year olds being so well behaved, but having lots and lots of fun at the same time. I did not know all the songs in the class, but my son did!!! So I just had to look at him to learn all the movements. The best child activity I have been to; absolutely amazing! ’ ‘What an amazing time my son is having in his class on Mondays! I am an ex teacher with drama qualifications and really respect and admire the teachers’ passion and enthusiasm she approaches each class with! ’

‘Monkey Music is THE only class that I recommend to other mums and dads because I know that it is purposeful and has a lasting impact on the children’ Rebecca Maskell, a professional musician who trained at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama has been running Monkey Music in Blackheath and Greenwich for 18 years and together with her dedicated team of teachers continues to love introducing music to very young children and watching them develop into little musicians! Book a free class now, and claim your £18 membership for just £1!! Quote Meridian. www.monkeymusic.co.uk/area/blackheath-greenwich Blackheath.dulwich@monkeymusic.co.uk 020 8291 4092

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Blackheath High specialists in enabling girls to flourish It seems to be an annual tradition that head teachers of co-educational and single-sex school indulge in a polemic war of words about the relative merits or otherwise of single-sex education. This January was no exception, with a series of articles from wellrespected heads, indulging in the traditional Punch and Judy- style spat over the single-sex/co-education debate. Whilst it’s healthy to regularly question the rationale for the structure and ethos of our schools, I think it’s a shame that it becomes so negative. One of the great strengths of the UK education system is that there is room for diversity of approach, choice for parents and students and the opportunity to choose the school and education that best suits your son or daughter. It is a strength of the education provision in London that there is a wealth of successful and interesting schools to choose from. Whether they are single-sex or co-educational is one element of the education they provide, but certainly not the only element. There can be excellent co-educational schools, but there can be terrible ones too, and to simplify the choice to this one aspect of a school is to overlook many other vital characteristics. Blackheath High School is extremely proud of its 136 years of educating girls, as part of the Girls’ Day School Trust (www.gdst.net) and we consider ourselves specialists in what we do. It does not mean that we are ‘anti-boys’ or ‘anti-co-education’ but rather that we have a specialist area of expertise and our parents and girls appreciate what we do.

Why girls only? It would be good if we lived in a world where women experienced equality of opportunity in all areas of life. Girls are overtaking boys in most subjects at GCSE and A level – and they’re getting more firsts at university. But this hasn’t altered

disparities later in life. A recent survey of women on company boards, and any analysis of MPs, directors, leaders in the community or universities will show that women are still not represented proportionally. This is partly to do with working cultures and opportunities but also to do with how some girls and women behave in the workplace and the challenges they face. Studies show they are more likely to respond negatively to setbacks and less likely to put themselves forward for promotion. We will all experience failure in some area of our lives, but for teenage girls, dealing with the emotions associated with ‘failure’ can be a challenging time. It can be tempting to protect our daughters and pupils from these setbacks, fearful of damaging their fragile self-esteem, but a lifetime of working in girls-only education has re-inforced my passionate belief that this does not benefit girls in any way. JK Rowling’s 2008 commencement speech at Harvard was an inspiring testament to the inner strength that can be built through experiencing setbacks and learning from them. As she argued: “It is impossible to live without failing at something, unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all – in which case, you fail by default.’ All too often, students, especially young women, can fall into the trap of failing to fulfil their potential through fear of making mistakes, or through negative perfectionism which cripples their ability to take risks. This can hinder them once they leave school too.

What benefits does girls-only bring? At Blackheath High, students benefit from an tailored approach that means they are far better equipped to risk failure, be courageous and believe

in their own strengths and abilities. A well-designed pastoral programme equips girls with the emotional awareness and physical and mental skills to navigate challenges ahead. Our teaching inspires girls to develop a questioning, evidence-based approach to their studies. They are encouraged to ask questions, embrace uncertainties and develop the problem-solving skills that are so vital in the world beyond school. They do this in an atmosphere that is open-minded and supportive. Qualifications like the Extended Project Qualification and our bespoke Wollstonecraft Programme teach students not only a body of knowledge, but also how they might approach a situation when they do not know what the answer might be. Our girls design and produce artificial limbs at 3D printing club, they debate with erudition and tenacity and they grill local electoral candidates fearlessly. As a recent visitor to the school commented: “Without boys to impress, there were none of the draught creating false eyelashes or make-up we’ve seen at other schools recently. Girls between lessons were exuberant, loud even.” All subjects, including science and technology-based subjects, are considered ‘girls’ subjects’ at Blackheath High and it is typical to see graduates last summer heading off to an array of courses that includes: Chemical Engineering; Mathematics; Anthropology and Medicine amongst others. It is the students themselves that best illustrate the strengths and success of a school. We would love for you to come and meet our articulate, intelligent and engaging students at Blackheath; do join our Open Morning on 8th March and sign up for our ‘Into Senior School’ taster days for girls currently in Year 5 which will run in June. Visit our website (www.blackheathhighschool.gdst.net) and please get in touch. Carol Chandler-Thompson (Head)

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Academically Selective with Small Class Sizes Finding the right school for your child is so important, it should be an environment where he or she can be happy, learn and thrive. It is proven that children learn more effectively in small class sizes. In fact, this is one of the main reasons why you send your child to an independent school, a class of 20 children is ideal. But small class size alone does not ensure a good education. The quality of the teaching, the school leadership, size of the school, the amount of parent involvement and other factors are also important. Good early years’ education is essential to compete for a place in the top independent senior schools. Entrance exams for independent senior schools, just like the grammar schools’ 11+ assessments, can be tough. Entry to the Senior Department at Babington House School is selective. It is not too late to be considered to join Babington Seniors in September 2016. Taster days are encouraged as they provide an opportunity to meet teachers and other pupils already at the school as well as a chance to have some fun. The selective entrance tests in verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, Mathematics and English can be taken during a Taster Day and as Headmaster, Mr Lello, said “it also gives us a chance to see the wider talents and gifts of our prospective pupils, I happen to think everyone has some”. For Sixth Form entry, there are many choices and children often move school for Sixth Form. The co-educational Sixth Form at Babington is unique, with the focus very much on A level study whilst at the same time providing work experience to develop the pupil’s CV and self-confidence. The small classes

offer the students a tutorial style of learning and individual contact with their subject teachers, ensuring an intimate study programme designed personally for them, with relevant and intuitive tracking on their development and progression. Babington House is a modern school with traditional values where bright pupils benefit from carefully monitored and well directed learning. Come and see for yourself, our Open Morning is on Saturday, 5th March 2016. www.babingtonhouse.com

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Learning for life

Schools compete to offer the best range of activities outside the classroom – but what can you actually learn from them? Quite a lot, it turns out. In particular, those ‘soft’ skills that come into their own beyond school, beyond university, when you eventually plunge into the serious business of earning a living. Take the Robotics Club at Colfe’s School. It has just won a commendation for building a robot that can sort a jumble of Lego bricks into separate piles, each of one colour. Club member Joe, who is only 13, described their activities. “Within the team, there are lots of different roles: from programming the robot for what moves it will make on the day, to building the robot and its attachments. I’ve made some great friends from different years. You also learn basic programming skills and begin to understand the theories behind engineering and project management.” So club members gain experience of the vital skill of teamworking, recognising the different contributions that different people can make. And joining with others in a fun activity means it is more enjoyable to pick up the ‘hard’ skills that are needed along the way, such as programming. This was confirmed by the staff coordinator of the Robotics Club, Matthew Hillmer: “Colfe’s did outstandingly well because they worked as a team and supported each other. They also learnt how to put together a proposal and invaluable industry skills like justifying your resources and allocations.” Mixed-age activities such as the Robotics Club are a feature of Colfe’s. For example, in the unique Colfe’s Family programme, mixed-age groups deal with the dilemmas that every family faces, from buying a house to getting a job. Like any family, they have to discuss and negotiate issues where there is no right answer, merely (as so often in real life) a best compromise. Pupils also have opportunities to practise leadership. This is one reason why Colfe’s Combined Cadet Force is so popular. Again, it is not just the oldest ones who benefit. 15-year-old Freddie said, “The CCF will teach you how to communicate with people and lead them. I’m in Medic Flight, and you have to have quite a lot of responsibility: as soon as you notice a casualty, you’re liable for everything that you do. I can speak to people and lead people a lot better now.” Colfe’s: learning for life. www.colfes.com

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ME RID IA N EDUCAT IO N

King’s Rochester – top results and so much more. Founded in 604 AD, King’s Rochester is the oldest Cathedral Choir school in the world and the second oldest school. Academic results are impressive at all levels in this broad-ability school and in 2015, King’s A level pupils netted over 80% A* to C grades with over a third being A* or A and almost two thirds, A* to B. At GCSE, nearly half of all grades were A* and A and just under 70%, A* to B. In Pre-Prep and Prep, 2015 Key Stage 1 and 2 results again far exceeded national scores and the latest (2013) inspection report (ISI) deemed Pre-Prep, Prep and Senior Schools “good” or “outstanding” in all areas. But at King’s we recognise that every child is unique with talents and strengths which extend far beyond the classroom. Unsurprisingly, music plays a central role here and many concerts are staged in Rochester Cathedral - our School Chapel. The Cathedral Choristers have recorded for BBC radio and television, performed on London’s South Bank and taken part in many, more local festivals in addition to singing at the daily Cathedral services. Most recently, they performed at London’s Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club alongside the James Taylor Quartet, the first Cathedral Choir ever to sing at the legendary venue. The outstanding musical abilities of our pupils cross all musical disciplines from Choral Music to Strings, Piano to Percussion and Opera to Jazz. King’s regularly celebrates with pupils who win local competitions such as the Medway and Maidstone Young Musician of the Year competitions or who are chosen to sing or play with National Youth Choirs, perform Organ recitals in Cathedrals across the UK – or even win the Rochester Battle of the (Rock) Bands competition!

King’s Rochester Sports Centre provides first-rate facilities with seven outdoor (Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) approved) tennis courts, five netball courts, a large multi – purpose Sports Hall, fitness gym and physio suite. Together with a boathouse on the Medway for rowing, King’s pupils also have a heated, indoor pool on site and access to first-class rugby and hockey pitches at nearby Holcombe. Easily accessible from Kent and the South East and 30 minutes by train from Bromley South and central London, King’s enjoys a beautiful, safe location in the heart of Rochester. To find out more about the School, a great place to start is our Open Day on Saturday 27th February 2016 from 9.15am to 12.00pm. No booking is required but for further information, please contact Registrar, Lynne Davies on 01634 888590 or email admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk.

Bishop Challoner School Bishop Challoner is a highly successful and long established independent Catholic school in Shortlands welcoming pupils of all faiths. We educate girls and boys aged 3 to 18 years and pride ourselves on our nurturing caring environment and have clear moral values and a sense of community spirit. The pupils are happy and successful; they thrive in a culture of high expectation and every child is treated as an individual. Bishop Challoner pupils are polite, respectful, honest and responsible and are prepared to take risks and challenge themselves. Our exceptional team of teachers and support staff, encourage pupils to be inspired, to aim high and to aspire to be the very best they can be. Teachers with skill, passion and experience in their subject make topics come alive in the classroom and enhance the learning of our pupils. We achieve excellent results at GCSE and A Level representing a lot of hard work and dedication. Our motto challenges each and every student to dare to do their very best. The School offers 11+, 13+ and sixth form scholarships and we have a selected number of bursaries available. Our fees are reasonable compared to many other independent schools. The school is conveniently situated a 5 minute walk from Shortlands station and has excellent transport links, which enables our pupils to travel from a wide catchment area on public transport. Paula Anderson Bishop Challoner School 020 8290 9540 www.bishopchallonerschool.com

ME R IDIA N EDUCAT IO N

A proven track record in delivering high quality education Established in 2002, Shooters Hill Campus has built-up a proven track record in delivering high quality education and training across a wide range of academic and specialist vocational curriculum areas. Whatever an applicant’s prior school achievement, the Campus has designed courses from Entry through to advanced Level 3 that will offer the right starting-point for preparation for further training, employment or Higher Education. As a centre exclusively working with 16-18 year olds, the Campus offers an adult learning environment in which young people can make new friends, grow in confidence and develop new skills in a modern and attractive stateof-the-art centre. Through word of mouth recommendation, our unique provision has meant that we have grown to be one of the largest sixth form providers in the South East of London. Our size enables us to offer exceptional additional learning support alongside an exciting programme of extra-curricular activities and access to an extensive set of post 16 Student Services which includes an assigned personal tutor, as well as the support of a bespoke team of Personal Progress Tutors who work alongside each department providing pastoral support to help our students achieve to the best of their ability.

Students at The Campus describe the learning environment as “family, adult & supportive” which is something that we take pride in. The Campus community atmosphere enables our young learners to build new friendships and indulge their extra-curricular passions whilst receiving a top quality education in their chosen subjects. We hope that you will find the time to come and visit The Campus at one of our open events during 15/16. During your visit you will have the opportunity to meet the Director and Teaching Staff as well as receiving a tour of our facilities from our Student representatives. 2016 Campus Open Events Thursday 3rd March 2016 5pm-8pm

ME R IDIA N FO O D & DRINK

Zeytin

The grand opening of the new restaurant, Zeytin in west Greenwich heralds authentic Turkish cuisine and a meze bar

The restaurant manages to combine Turkish tradition with contemporary style, using dark wood and modern lighting achieving - a golden glow. The compact bar area gives way to a large restaurant with an open to view kitchen from which there seems to be an endless stream of dishes, some well known, others new and interesting. We tried the mixed cold starters, which included a selection of dips and Patlıcan soslu, lightly fried aubergine with mixed peppers and onion in a special tomato sauce, olives and fresh warm bread. Followed by the hot mix meze, an array of spices and flavours, grilled hellim cheese, spicy sausage, fillo pastry filled with feta and herbs, and fried calamari. Taking a break from eating, I studied the wine list and was pleased to see that not only is there a range of wines from Europe and the New World but Turkish wines from Pamukkale, an area in western Turkey known for the mineral-rich thermal waters flowing down white travertine terraces; memories of Turkish holidays kick in. For a main course the combination grill of charcoal grilled meats ‘that had been twice marinated to keep the juiciness’ served with bulgar wheat and rice was perfect for sharing.

The atmosphere was beginning to buzz, you could have been in Turkey, until we stepped out into a chilly Greenwich. www.zeytinrestaurant.co.uk 020 8692 2458 63 Greenwich High Road, London SE10 8JL

Tower Tandoori One of London’s oldest Indian restaurants, Tower Tandoori is a local institution and has been a jewel in Bermondsey’s culinary crown since 1978 The family business was set up by a young entrepreneur, Mr. Ali and passed onto his two sons, Burhan and Shab Uddin in 1989. The brothers worked hard throughout their working lives to sustain their father’s legacy. Today, Mr. Ali’s grandsons run the business, the third generation of the family. They were excited to mark their own stamp on the legacy; Suhel and Emon decided to invite guest chefs to experiment and introduce regional cuisine from the subcontinent. The menu was transformed, now reflects the cultural diversity of India, with influences from Parsi, Goan, Bengali, Nepalese and Gujarati cooking styles. On a visit to the restaurant I had the opportunity to meet their chef, Govind Manjul Singh from Uttaranchal, Northern India. He joined the team last August, having worked in some of the best hotels in India, coming to the UK ten years ago

BIANCO 43

to work at Veeraswamy and The A Taj Hotel in central London. General Manager Suhel Ahmed invited me to sample one of their starter platters. Malai Chop: Tender rack of lamb cutlet marinated in soft cheese and hung yoghurt, chargrilled in the tandoor Chilli paneer: Home made cheese slices tossed with garlic, chilli and peppers Rubarb Prawns: Rhubarb and beetroot marinated king prawns chargrilled in the tandoor Chicken Tikka: Succulent grilled chicken double marinated with roasted spices, mint and hung yoghurt Cooking in a clay tandoori oven adds amazing flavors and at Tower Tandoori their oven was lit in 1978 and is still smouldering away today! Valentine’s Season of Love Menu runs between 1st - 14th February offering a stunning three courses for £29.95 per guest. Visit their website www.towertandoori.co.uk for details.

Bianco43 is an authentic Italian pizzeria restaurant specialising in pizzas and traditional Italian food with this great delivery service offer.

www.bianco43.com 020 8305 1588

020 7237 2247 74-76 Tower Bridge Road, London SE1 4TP

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M E R IDIA N CO MMUNIT Y

The Blackheath Society

Guardians of the Heath

Talbot Place windmills near Blackheath Vale 1780 Artist Carrington Bowles The Blackheath Society was founded in 1937, and is one of London’s oldest and largest amenity groups. It started with a group of local people, concerned about preserving the buildings in the area, meeting at All Saints Parish Hall (now the Mary Evans Picture Library) to create a society “pledged to safeguard by all possible means the amenities of Blackheath.” The aims of the society are to preserve and enhance the features of Blackheath and its vicinity that are of particular beauty or historical, architectural or constructional interest. It also protects its open spaces, particularly the heath, and encourages high standards of planning and architecture in its new buildings. In its first 50 years it fought off numerous damaging development proposals including a six-lane motorway through the heart of Blackheath Village, in 2010, the society also took over the Blackheath Preservation Trust, founded in 1938 to purchase and preserve endangered buildings of historical and architectural interest. The society is more active than ever today. As well as regular activities to support and preserve the village and protect the heath from encroachment or disfigurement, activities in the last few years include creating the new Hub on the Heath, supporting the new village Community Centre and Library at Age Exchange, launching a new digital archive of Blackheath photographs and promoting a new Westcombe Woodlands organisation. It

also campaigns for improvements to the Heath, for instance, the closure of several busy roads and their replacement by foot and cycle paths. Just after the society celebrated it’s 70th anniversary it produced a book, Guardians of the Heath which chronicled the battles fought from 1937 to 2008. Some major events included: The fight against post-war plans to demolish the Paragon and its surrounding area in 1949 and the battle to save Montpelier Row and Blackheath becoming London’s first conservation area in the 60s. Currently the society having received funding from the community premium from the OnBlackheath festival will be able to put into action two new projects. Firstly the maintenance of The Hare and Billet Pond, and secondly a series of storyboards to commemorate the major events and natural history of the heath. The planned six storyboards will form the trail around the heath. They will be based on the six geographical areas identified in our publication, Walking the heath and will provide detailed information of historic events which occurred in each area and, where relevant, ecological issues, flora and fauna. The historical content will be provided by Vice President and local historian, Neil Rhind. The boards will be designed by Madeleine Adams, who has designed similar panels which can be seen in St Margaret’s churchyard and at Severndroog Castle.

Get involved and have your say, it’s how it all started.

Funfair circa 1905 The public will still have a chance to question councillors from Greenwich and Lewisham Councils on the use of the Heath when the Blackheath Joint Working Party holds its annual public meeting at 7.30pm on Tuesday 16 February in the Bakehouse Theatre behind the Age Exchange building in the centre of Blackheath Village. See more at www.blackheath.org

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WH AT TO DO W HERE & WH E N ONGOING ART, DRAMA, MUSIC, LANGUAGE & WINE COURSES

One-to-one instrumental & vocal tuition for all age groups, plus a range of courses. The Conservatoire, Lee Road Blackheath, SE3. Info: 020 8852 0234 or info@conservatoire.org.uk

BLACKHEATH DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS SOCIETY

Stimulating lectures and intriguing outings. Fourth Thursday of the month except Aug and Dec. 2.30pm. www.artsinblackheath.org.uk St Mary’s Hall, Cresswell Park, Blackeath SE3.

MAKING NEW FRIENDS WITH RAPUNZEL

BY JAMES HADDRELL, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR OF GREENWICH THEATRE Having celebrated our biggest selling pantomime ever with Red Riding Hood, there is already excitement around our half-term programme of family shows, and having secured a UK premiere from some of the biggest names in international television, I’m not surprised.

February with THE LOST THINGS, a visually stunning new show which invites the audience into a custom built dome on the Greenwich Theatre stage, followed by Thingumajig Theatre’s puppet version of THE UGLY DUCKLING.

From Thursday 18-Sunday 21 February, we are proud to host the UK premiere touring production of RAPUNZEL, a family musical written by David Crane and Marta Kauffman, the executive producers of international mega-hit ‘Friends’, with music by Michael Skloff – the writer of the iconic theme song “I’ll Be There For You”.

James Haddrell, Artistic Director of Greenwich Theatre, said: “From the launch of the Greenwich Children’s Theatre Festival eight years ago, to our participation in the national Family Arts Festival, we continue to work to bring the finest theatre for children, families and young people to our historic venue in Greenwich. Having celebrated our biggest selling pantomime yet, we are now looking forward to a busy half term holiday here at the theatre.”

Created by the Emmy Awardwinning team, RAPUNZEL is a witty, tongue-in-cheek retelling of a perennial favourite complete with a possessive mother who happens to be a witch, a tentative young man who happens to be a prince and a strong-willed but naïve young girl with the longest hair you’re ever likely to come across! The production completes a school holiday line-up which begins on Sat 13 & Sun 13

GREENWICH DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS SOCIETY

Monthly lectures at King William Court, Room 315, University of Greenwich, Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, SE10. 8pm on 2nd Monday of the month, except April & August. Refreshments from 7.15pm. 020 8852 7873 or www.gdfas.org

EVERY MON ROTARY CLUB OF LEWISHAM & PENGE

Local businessmen and women giving help locally, national and internationally. We meet at 7pm for a dinner, with speakers on a variety of subjects. Contact Peter Earl on 020 8303 3361 or Alan Davis 020 8467 2032. Bromley Court Hotel, Bromley.

WOOLWICH SINGERS

A community choir. No audition required to join. The aim is to sing together and have fun! £2 per week, refreshments provided. 6.30pm-8pm. Call 07812 477 775 Public Hall, Wellington St, Woolwich SE18 6PW (entrance via Town Hall).

EVERY THURS ROTARY CLUB OF GREENWICH

For like-minded business people to meet & help the community. If visiting please contact Sarah Campbell 07958527877 Old Colfeans Rugby Football Club, Horn Park, Eltham Road SE9 8UE.

EVERY FRI LUNCHTIME CONCERT

1pm – 2pm. Free. www.charlton-house.org 020 8856 3951. Charlton House, Charlton Rd; SE7

TANGOWORKOUT

THE LOST THINGS (ages 9+) – 13 & 14 Feb 2016

Classes connecting Tango with health and well being, for men and women. 7.15pm - 9.15pm. Beginners and intermediate classes. £7. West Greenwich Community Centre, 141 Greenwich High Road, SE10 8JA.

UGLY DUCKLING (ages 5+) – 15 Feb 2016

BROMLEY GREEN GYM

RAPUNZEL (all ages) – 18-21 Feb 2016 Box Office 020 8858 7755, www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk

Meeting weekly to carry out wildlife gardening tasks to bring back some of the site’s heritage, and transform the space for the benefit of wildlife and the local community. www.tcv.org.uk. Free. 11am-2pm. 07740 899 689. College Green & Slip, West Street, Bromley, BR1 1PA.

CHARLTON JUDO CLUB

Judo training sessions for anyone aged 10 years and over. If you do not have a judo suit wear baggy t-shirt and old jog bottoms. From beginners upwards. 8.15-9.30pm. £3 per session. Call Lorraine on 07932767385 or email lollyjudo1975@aol.com. NCCA Community Hall, 217 Maryon Road, Charlton SE7 8DB.

EVERY 2ND SAT BOOK SALE

Friends of Age Exchange. www.friends-of-age-exchange.org.uk. 10am-4pm. Bakehouse Bookshop, Blackheath Village SE3 9LA.

EVERY SUN CHRISTIAN SCIENCE SOCIETY

Blackheath. Services and Sunday School held at the Clarendon Hotel, Blackheath at 11am. Also at the Clarendon Hotel, our monthly Testimony Meeting is held every second Wednesday of the month at 8pm.

BLACKHEATH QUAKERS

Meeting for worship. 10.30am-11.30am every Sunday. Visitors welcome. For more details, including room hire on 07908 587 695 or email quakerhall@ aol.com. Quaker Meeting House, Lawn Terrace, Blackheath SE3 9LL.

UNTIL 21 FEB MACBETH

A short, intense, psychological thriller in which ghost, murder, and copious amounts of blood abound. Directed by Asia Osborne. Visit www.broadwaytheatre. org.uk for times and prices. Broadway Studio Theatre, Rushey Greenwich, Catford SE6 4RU.

12 MAR WATERCOLOURS – A SENSE OF PLACE

Showcasing the Trust’s watercolours collection, this exhibition displays a selection of paintings including landscape, cityscape and waterscape settings from across the borough and beyond. Royal Greenwich Heritage Trust. 020 8854 2452. Tues – Sat 9am-5pm. Greenwich Heritage Centre. Artillery Square, Royal Arsenal, Woolwich SE18 6ST.

WED 10 FEB EL SEPTIMO CIGAR TASTING

Monthly cigar tasting will feature a hand rolled El Septimo cigar which will be paried with a spirit. 6.30pm. Members £35 (+ I guest at members price) Non members £49.50. Contact Valerie Faicheney on 020 7715 5818 or events@boisdale_cw.co.uk. Boisdale, Cabot Place, Canary Wharf E14 4QT.

THURS 11 FEB BACH TO BABY

Classical Concert series for Baby and You. Be amazed at how your child will love Bach, Beethoven and Brahms. 4pm. £10. 020 8858 1749. Mycenae House, 90 Mycenae Road, SE3 7SE.

E:MAIL events@meridian-magazine.co.uk

HISTORICAL ROMANCE

A special Valentines event titled ‘Your Devoted Frank’. This romantic evening performance follows the true story of Frank Keeffe and his sweetheart, May O’Malley. Frank was an armourer serving in France during the First World War and he wrote to May almost every day. Visitors will hear their love story, taken from those handwritten letters. 6-7pm. Includes a free glass of Prosecco, a piece of wedding cake and the opportunity to visit the Heritage Centre Exhibitions. Booking recommended. £5. Tickets also available on the night. Book online www.yourdevotedfrank.eventbrite.co.uk. Greenwich Heritage Centre. Artillery Square, Royal Arsenal, Woolwich SE18 6ST.

VALENTINES DAY – SEX AND THE STUARTS TOUR

An evening of stories of love and lust as exhibition curator, Kristian Martin, hosts an after-hours tour of Samuel Pepts: Plague, Fire, Revolution and explores the idea of sex in the Stuart age. 6.30-10pm. Adults £15, £12 members. www.rmg.co.uk or 020 8858 4422. National Maritime Museum, Greenwich.

THE ZZ TOPS

Gimme All You Lovin’, Sharp Dressed Man, Tush, Legs, Under Pressure, Cheap Sunglasses, Waiting For The Bus! The band nails the look, the sound and the overall vibe of the Texas trio with the beards, the cheap sunglasses, the fuzzy guitars, the outfits and all the moves!! “They’re the closest I’ve seen’ - Billy Gibbons, ZZ Top. 7.30-11.00 pm (no admission after 10.00 pm). £10 in advance/£12 on door. See www. thebeaverwoodclub.co.uk for details. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst, BR7 6HF.

THURS 11, 18, 25 FEB &3 MAR LUNCHTIME RECITAL Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance. Visit trinitylaban.ac.uk/whatson for details. 1.05pm. Free. St Alfege Church, Greenwich Church Street, Greenwich SE10 9BJ.

FRI 12 FEB WALKING TOURS - PEPYS AND GREENWICH

This walk takes you through Samuel Pepy’s time downriver, exploring experiences of Greenwich, Deptford and the Thames in the 17th century. 11am-1.30pm. £15, £12 members. Adults only. Location confirmed on booking. www.rmg.co.uk or 020 8858 4422. National Maritime Museum, Greenwich.

SAT 13 FEB GOLDSMITHS RAMBLING CLUB

An easy 4.5-mile linear walk, around the new development near Kings Cross, Along Regents Canal, Primrose Hill and Paddington basin, finishing at Paddington Station. Meet 10.30am at Kings Cross Station, platform 9 ¾ near the notice board by platform 9-11. Contact Rona Sullivan on 020 8850 4417 for details. New members welcome.

LUNCHTIME RECITAL

Eduard Garcia Carles, piano. 1.05pm. Free. St Alfege Church, Greenwich Church Street, Greenwich SE10 9BJ.

CHILDRENS BOOK SWAP

Children are invited to exchange their old books for new ones at the Greenwich Heritage Centre this half term. An afternoon of family activities, which will include face painting, story reading and crafts will entertain all ages. The public can bring in their old books in advance ready for the event. 020 8854 2452. 1-3pm. Greenwich Heritage Centre, Artillery Square, Royal Arsenal, Woolwich SE18 6ST.

GREENWICH MUSIC TIME

JAZZ NIGHT + VALENTINE’S DINNER

Chill out and celebrate Valentine’s Day in style and glamour with a live jazz band (Jacci Norris vocals, Dave Silk bass, Trevor Harrington drums, Roger Alexander Lewin piano) plus dinner cooked by our top chef. Menu to be advised. £50. 8-11pm. See www.thebeaverwoodclub.co.uk for details. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst BR7 6HF.

SAT 13 FEB PETER KENT DISCUSSION FORUM

Post exhibition forum relating to PeterKent’s observations of the ‘Birth of London’s Newest City’. Peter Kent and others will discuss what is happening in our neck of the woods. If you would like to attend RSVP thegreenwichgallery@gmail.com. 12 midday. Free. Refreshment will be served. The Greenwich Gallery, Linear House, Peyton Place, Greenwich SE10 8RS.

13 – 21 FEB LIVING WITH BIRDS

Give a bird a home during National Nest Box Week with the British Trust for Ornithology. Various activities from bird box building to a bird craft workshop as well as bird spotting trail taking place in the grounds. Admission price includes entry to this event. More details www. hevercastle.co.uk. 01732 86224. Hever Castle & Gardens, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG.

SAT 13 FEB – 30 OCT DINOSAURS: MONSTER FAMILIES

Discover the fascinating world of dinosaurs and their young in this family focused interactive exhibition. Visitors will be able to see a fossilized egg of the extinct elephant bird, on loan from Sir David Attenborough’s private collection plus themed events and activities. For tickets see www.horniman.ac.uk/ dinosaurs.10.30am-5.30pm. Horniman Museum, 100 London Rd, London SE23 3PQ.

Greenwich Music Time, which transforms the The Old Royal Naval College’s breathtaking riverside location into the ultimate open-air venue, returns from July 5th – 10th 2016 with a stellar line-up featuring an eclectic array of star names from around the world. Still only in its third year, the concert series has quickly established itself as one of the most popular live music events in the calendar, thanks to its stunning location on the banks of the Thames and an array of memorable performances over the years from the likes of Ray Davies, Tom Jones, Jools Holland, George Benson and many more. This year’s event looks set to push the bar even higher with the announcement that chart-topping ‘80s pop duo Roxette, Croatian classical-rock duo 2CELLOS, and the Grammy-winning pianist and singer Jamie Cullum will all perform in 2016. More artists will be announced in due course. www.greenwichmusictime.co.uk

SUN 14 FEB BRENDAN COLE

LOCALE LOVES LIVE

LIVE JAZZ NIGHT + A LOVELY LUNCH

TUES 16 FEB GREENWICH INDUSTRIAL HISTORY SOCIETY

Strictly Come Dancing’s Brendan Cole is once again set to dazzle audiences across the UK with his latest show A Night To Remember. 7.30pm. From £26. www. atgtickets.com/bromley. 0844 8717 620. Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley BR1 1HA.

Enjoy the ultimate Valentine’s Day experience with a delicious lunch cooked by our top chef while listening to a live Jazz concert given by the Jazznights Ensemble. Children welcome. 1-5pm. £35. See www. thebeaverwoodclub.co.uk for details. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst BR7 6HF.

Valentine’s Day with Paris Ruel. Treat your loved one to an amazing three-course meal with romantic songs. £29.95 each. For reservations call 020 8852 0700. Locale Restaurant, 1 Lawn Terrace, Blackheath SE3.

DEVON ALLMAN BAND (USA)

Devon Allman’s Honeytribe is the epitome of the Southern Rock ‘jam’ band. Devon, who has a vocal style heavily reminiscent of his father, Greg Allman, has been honing his skills since his early teens. Now comes his UK debut on the back of the Honeytribe ‘Torch’ album. Sparks should fly! 7.30-11.00 pm (no admission after 10.00 pm). £13 in advance/£15 on door. See www.thebeaverwoodclub. co.uk for details. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst, BR7 6HF.

David Ramzam, author of ‘Three Greenwich Built Ships’. 7.30pm. Non member £1. The Old Bakehouse (rear of Age Exchange), Bennett Park, SE3. No parking.

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W H AT TO DO W HERE & WH E N MUSIC & STORIES

A fundraising concert in support of Age Exchange given by Simon Standage (violin) and Jenny Standage (organ). Music by Vivaldi, Bach, Tek Lemann, Matteis, Baltzar and Flor Peeters with musical and personal stories bout the works. 7.30pm. £15, £12 (FofAE). www.friends-of-age-exchange.org. uk. St Margaret’s Church SE13 5DL.

CHAMPIONS OF ROCK

Described as ‘the next best thing to the real thing’ by Freedie Mercury’s mum, the cast of Queen concert show Champions of Rock come with ‘royal’ approval. 8pm. £22, £20 concs. 020 8463 0100. www. blackheathhalls.com. Blackheath Halls, 23 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ.

PIRATES & PRINCESSES FUN AT THE FARM THIS HALF TERM Join Hopper the Rabbit and Friends at The Hop Farm Family Park this half term for some serious fun! Themed indoor entertainment, magic shows, indoor inflatable extravaganza, discos, indoor soft play, bestdressed prize draws, balloon modelling, cup-cake making, animal farm, driving school, childrens rides and much more. As always, the Family Park is free to enter! Treat the kids to a fantastic day out. Saturday 13 February – Sunday 21 February www.hopfarm.co.uk. 01622 872068. The Hop Farm, Maidstone Road, Paddock Wood, Kent TN12 6PY.

WED 17 –SAT 20 FEB QUEST

A story of love, loss and creation, in which we are constantly faced with crossroads. This is the second site-sensitive performance in a trilogy of work by Belgian choreographer Tara D’Arquian. 7.30pm Sat 2pm & 7.30pm. £12, £9 concs. 020 8293 9741. Greenwich Dance, The Borough Hall, Royal Hill, Greenwich SE10 8RE.

WED 17 – SAT 20 FEB CAT’S CRADLE

The Alexandra Players, Charlton’s amateur theatre group’s latest production is the Cat’s Cradle. Set in an old coaching-house in a remote English village where the local townspeople have a past shrouded in mystery. 7.30pm. £9, concs £8. www.alexandraplayers.org.uk. Alexandra Hall, Charlton URC Church, Bramshot Ave SE7.

THURS 18 FEB LIMEHOUSE LIZZY

Regarded as one of the UK’s leading tribute bands Limehouse Lizzy take their name partly from their East London origins and partly from their musical heroes Thin Lizzy. Playing a blistering two set show, Limehouse have already headlined the Philo Festival in Dublin. 7.30-11.00 pm (no admission after 10.00 pm). £13 in advance/£15 on door. See www.thebeaverwoodclub.co.uk for details. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst, BR7 6HF.

FRI 19 FEB BLACKHEATH FLOWER CLUB

Fun with flowers. Christine Saunders – It’s Child’s Play. 2-4pm. £5. Mycenae House, Mycenae Road, Blackheath SE3 7SE.

EU: IN OR OUT ?

East Charlton residents group, the Charlton Parkside Community Hub, has asked Syed Kamall MEP to lead a discussion on the forthcoming European Union referendum plus Q & A. Strickly neutral and non-party political. 7-8.30pm. The Old Library, Charlton House, SE7 8RE.

BLACKHEATH SCIENTIFIC SOCIETY

Energy Storage – The key to using renewable energy from intermittent sources without fossil fuel backup. 7.45pm. Visitors welcome with a donation of £3. Mycenae House, 90 Mycenae Road, SE3 7SE.

SAT 20 FEB THE UGLY DUCKLING

Inspired by the Hans Christian Anderson tale, The Ugly Duckling. The show features the hand shadow puppetryof Drew Colby and live cello music by Penny Callow. Suitable for ages 4+. Running time 60 mins. 3pm. £7. 020 8463 0100. www.blackheathhalls. com. Recital Room, Blackheath Halls, 23 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ.

SUN 21 FEB FRIENDS OF GREENWICH PARK – ANNUAL LECTURE Painters and the Park. Pieter van der Merwe MBE DL, General Editor for Royal Museums Greenwich, will be giving an illustrated lecture about the artists who, since the 17th century, have been inspired by the Park. 11am. £10 (to include a glass of wine) from Friends of Greenwich Park, 3 Orchard Drive, SE3 0QP, (tel 020 8852 8831) or on the door from 10.30am. The King William Lecture Theatre, University of Greenwich, The Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich.

MON 22 FEB BLOOD BROTHERS

Written by Willy Russell, the legendary Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, sperated at birth meet again with fateful consequences. Mon – Sat 7.30pm, Thurs & Sat 2.30pm. Tickets from £17.50. www.atgtickets.com/bromley. 0844 8717 620. Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley BR1 1HA.

TUES 23 FEB BACH TO BABY

Classical Concert series for Baby and You founded by concert pianist and mum, Miaomiao Yu. 10.30am. £10. 020 8858 1749. Bromley United Reformed Church, 20 Widmore Road, Bromley BR1 1RY.

WED 24 FEB THE OSCARS DINNER

This year Boisdale will be celebrating everyone’s favourite film awards show with a glamourous pre-Oscars party courtesy of Piper-Heidsieck, the exclusive champagne of the Oscars. Members £69.50 (+ I guest at members price) Non members £89.50. Contact Valerie Faicheney on 020 7715 5818 or events@boisdale_cw.co.uk. Boisdale, Cabot Place, Canary Wharf E14 4QT.

BLACKHEATH HALLS: FRIENDS’ ANNUAL ARCHITECTURE RICHARD GRIERSON LECTURE

Alison Brooks of Alison Brooks Architects - The Cultures of City-Building. In 2013 Alison Brooks was named Woman Architect of the Year and in 2014 was named by the Sunday Times as one of Britain’s most influential people. 8 pm. Tickets £12 (£10), £6 students. Box office 0208 463 0100. www.blackheathhalls.com. Blackheath Halls. 23 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ.

THURS 25 FEB BLACKHEATH DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY

Stained glass tells stories. Lecturer Susie Harries reveals the unexpected - from Mandela to Tiffany, Burne -Jones’ water closet to Churchill’s cigar plus our own saints and sinners depicted in glass in the Blackheath area. 2-2.30pm.Visitors £5. artsinblackheath.org.uk. St Mary’s Church Hall, Cresswell Park, SE3.

SAT 27 FEB GOLDSMITHS RAMBLING CLUB

A 6.5-mile circular walkfrom Crystal Palace taking in Sydenham Nature Reserve and Dulwich College and park. Meet 10.30am at Crystal Palace Station. Contact Rona Sullivan on 020 8850 4417 for details. New members welcome.

THE PESKY PIRATES

These cheeky pirates love playing, dancing and having fun! 1.30 & 4pm. £7. Suitable for ages 2-8. Running time 40 mins. Box office 0208 463 0100. www. blackheathhalls.com. Recital Room, Blackheath Halls. 23 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ.

GABY AGIS & THE RAINCOATS

The first work in Gaby Agis’ outstanding double bill is the reconstruction of Shouting Out Loud, originally choreographed in1984 and Live music from seminal punk bank The Raincoats. 7.30pm. £18, £14 concs. 020 8293 9741. Greenwich Dance, The Borough Hall, Royal Hill, Greenwich SE10 8RE.

BLACKHEATH JEST FEST

An evening of serious merriment with Richard Herring and a selection of the funniest stand-ups in the UK. 8pm. £14, £12 concs. www.blackheathhalls.com. The Blackheath Halls, 23 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ.

SUN 28 FEB LOCALE LOVES LIVE

Sunday lunch with live music from Acantha Lang. 2-4pm. For reservations call 020 8852 0700. Locale Restaurant, 1 Lawn Terrace, Blackheath SE3.

CHAMBER MUSIC ON VANBRUGH HILL

Every month the Steinberg Duo open the doors of their purpose-built chamber music studio for a small audience to listen to an hour’s recital followed by refreshments. Bohemian Quartet. 6pm. £10 booked in advance on line at www.steinbergduo.com. Steinberg Studio, 137 Vanbrugh Hill, Greenwich SE10 9HP.

MON 29 FEB BLACKHEATH HALLS LUNCHTIME RECITALS

Peacock Ensemble. 1.10pm. Free with retiring collection for the benefit of Blackheath Halls. 23 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ.

MON 29 FEB

Today is the traditional day that women can propose marriage to men. Let us know what he says by tweeting #hesaidyes or #hesaidno to @MeridianmagLDN

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WED 2 MAR GIN COCKTAIL TASTING

No other gin taste like Hendrick’s – divinely smooth with character. Try this most unusual gin cocktail tasting. 6.30pm. Members Free (+ I guest at members price) Non members £20. Contact Valerie Faicheney on 020 7715 5818 or events@boisdale_cw.co.uk. Boisdale, Cabot Place, Canary Wharf E14 4QT.

SAT 5 MAR THE MAGIC BEANSTALK

Jack, his mum and their cow Daisy are in trouble, something’s got to change. Hand-carved puppets, illusion and amazine experiments are used to retell this classic story. 3pm. £7. Suitable for 5+. Running time 60 mins. Recital Room, Box office 0208 463 0100. www. blackheathhalls.com. Blackheath Halls. 23 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ.

SAT 5 & 6 MAR MOTHER’S DAY WEEKEND

Spoil mum on Mother’s Day with a memorable family day out and meal. Craft workshop for young visitors to make that special gift to take home and a celebration menu in the restaurant. Admission price includes entry to this event. More details www.hevercastle.co.uk. 01732 86224. Hever Castle & Gardens, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG.

SUN 6 MAR SPONSORED HUMAN WALK

Raising money in aid of Riding for the Disabled Association, Charlton Park. If you fancy meeting new people, chatting whilst enjoying a long walk with your dog, plus the idea of raising money for a local cause contact Carol Kendall on carolsmopandbucket@hotmail.com for more info and sponsorship forms. The dog with the most sponsorship will have their picture painted in oil by Bill Simkin. Starting point Woolwich Common, opposite the Queen Elizabeth Hospital at 10am.

SUN 6 MAR TABLE SALE

Goods for sale by local makers and artist. 10am4pm. www.friends-of-age-exchange.org.uk. Age Exchange, The Old Bakehouse, Blackheath Village SE3 9LA.

MON 7 MAR BLACKHEATH HALLS LUNCHTIME RECITALS

Opera arias and duets. 1.10pm. Free with retiring collection for the benefit of Blackheath Halls. 23 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ.

UNTIL 5 JUNE TREASURES OF THE FAN MUSEUM The UK’s only museum dedicated to the history of fans and craft of fan making celebrates its twentieth fifth anniversary this year. “It was Papa’s sense of perfection, instilled from an early age, which has caused me to hope that The Fan Museum is in every detail a centre of excellence. Let the fans and their beauty speak for themselves...” Helene Alexander MBE, Founder/Director of The Fan Museum The exhibition runs until 5 June.

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ME R IDIA N ART & DESIGN

The Columbia Threadneedle Prize Local artist, Peter Clossick is one of six shortlisted artists, along with Lewis Hazelwood-Horner, Nicholas Holmes, J. Carlos Naranjo, Laura Smith and Chris Thomas, up for The Columbia Threadneedle Prize; Europe’s leading open competition for figurative and representational art.

GREENWICH PRINTMAKERS

Selected from 3,828 entries submitted by 1,973 artists from 29 European countries, the six finalists in line for the £20,000 prize will all exhibit at Mall Galleries, London in February, before their work, along with a selection from the exhibition, travels to the Palazzo Strozzi in Florence.

New Creation Gallery

This vintage shop and gallery features rare and unique items from the early 1900’s. Every piece is unique and sourced from Europe and around the world. Shown right is a linotype: a typesetting machine, which makes one line of type at a time. The machine assembles matrices, which are molds for the letter forms, in a line. Physically, it is a two ton contraption typewriter representing communication technology of 1886; which has now been replaced by Twitter. A limited edition collection of framed linotype design drawings, ink date stamped and marked for authenticity dating from 1900’s, priced at £175, are available. There will also be ‘Late Night at the Gallery’ events for presales and creative social gallery event evenings, visit the website for details. www.newcreationgallery.com/shopify. 0208 295 5588. New Creation Gallery, High Street, Chislehurst.

Selection of prints from local artists. Until 14 Feb Michael Reid, 16 Feb – 6 Mar Stephen Robson. Tues – Sun, 10am-5.30pm. www.greenwichprintmakers.co.uk. 020 8858 1569. Greenwich Printmakers Gallery, 1A The Market, Greenwich SE10 9HZ.

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