Meridian Magazine February 2017 issue by Meridian Magazine

Meridian February 2017 Â£1.00 Where Sold

Impress Your Wedding Guests

Your Local What, Where and When Magazine

Win

Tickets

To The N Weddin ational g Show

HELLO It may be chilly outside, but our wedding special will keep you warm this winter. We’ve worked with local companies who can make planning your big day a breeze. From flowers to photo booths, venues to bridesmaids dresses - there are plenty of experts just on your doorstep. So before you go into town or look online, take a look locally. We’ll also tackle how to impress your guests - in every way: the dress, the food, the location, the venue; we’ve got a few ideas up our sleeves. Don’t miss the chance to win tickets to the National Wedding Show, too. Our popular education supplement returns for its spring edition; with articles on early years and why learning through play is so important; how learning a language helps you to develop in more ways than you’d think and updates following the recent Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) visits. Plus much more. If your intentions to get out and do more this year have already fallen by the waste-side, just head to our events pages to feel reinvigorated. Life never stops in south east London, so pick something a little different and get involved. For all of those exhausted parents out there, you’ll also find plenty to keep the kids busy for the half term, too.

But sometimes, you do need to slow life down a little, and if the grey days have you wanting to hunker down, we haven’t forgotten about you. We look at the best way to spend a lazy Sunday - whether that’s brunch, a pint at your local, afternoon tea or a Sunday lunch. Valerie Breese heads off for an afternoon of spa indulgence and makes us all hugely envious; we hear about a new community cinema in Chislehurst proving very popular with residents and get tempted by gin tasting in Greenwich. Make sure you stop by our interiors, food & drink, health & beauty and property pages too. And whatever you choose to do this February, remember to love local! Enjoy the issue,

The Meridian Team xx

INSIDE THIS ISSUE....

WEDDINGS SPECIAL P24-32

OUT AND ABOUT P11

EDUCATION P38-47

FOOD OF LOVE P33

INTERIORS P11

ART AND DESIGN P55

WHAT TO DO P48-51

Meridian MAGAZINE

F E B RUA RY 2 0 1 7 Publisher: Joy Johnston Editor: Valerie Breese Art & Production Director: Paul McPherson Display Sales: Cheryl Voller April Hartley-Watson Claire McKinson Leeanne Garrette Classified Sales: Claire McKinson Social Media: Melissa Wright Contributors: Claire McKinson Natalie Burch Tamsyn Clark Accounts: Janet Franklin Printing: Precision Colour Printing Distribution CWT Meridian Line Publishing Ltd 68 Summerhouse Drive, Bexley, Kent DA5 2EE Tel: 01322 557794 Email: enquiries@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.

London City Airport releases unseen archive pictures

LOVE LOCA L

The published photographs are from the London City Airport archive and the personal collections of long-standing staff members; including Vic Abbott, a NATS air traffic engineer who has been at the airport since it opened and documented its early days. The wider selection includes fascinating shots of Prince Charles laying the foundation stone in 1986, the opening by the Queen in 1987, and the completed airport during the late eighties and early nineties, as well as the former site in London’s Royal Docks, which was transformed during the mid-eighties to become the home of the international airport.   Today, the airport serves nearly 50 destinations and in 2016 welcomed a record-breaking 4.5 million passengers over the course of the year. The 30th anniversary year in 2017 will also see the start of the £344 million City Airport Development Programme, comprising 7 new aircraft stands, a parallel taxiway and an extended passenger terminal, with completion expected by 2025. www.londoncityairport.com

Ceiling Tours The Painted Hall of the Old Royal Naval College Greenwich, described as ‘the Sistine Chapel of the UK’, will undergo a major transformation over the next two years, including the conservation of Sir James Thornhill’s painted ceiling and the creation of a new visitor centre, gallery and café. As part of this landmark project, visitors are being given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see progress on the conservation close up, through a series of ceiling tours which will be launched on 1 April. A lift will enable people of all ages and abilities, to reach the top-level platform and see the conservators at work. Although the project is not yet fully funded, grants including a gift of £1m from the Gosling Foundation, £3.2m awarded from the Heritage Lottery Fund in March 2016 and support from some of the UK’s leading philanthropists has enabled the £8.5m conservation project to begin. A further £2m is necessary to complete the project. Over the next two years, conservators will work on 3,400 square meters of painted surface, bringing new life and vibrancy to paintings obscured by decades of decay. A new visitor route and a range of sophisticated environmental controls are designed to ensure no further intervention will be necessary for 100 years. www.ornc.org/paintedhall

Woolwich to become London’s next cultural destination

Clash of Drums GDIF 2016 The Arts Council has announced funding of £270,000 towards a project to increase tourism in, and raise the profile of Woolwich through its fund: Cultural Destinations. ‘Woolwich: creating a new Cultural Destination in London’ will pair the arrival of the Crossrail service in 2018 with the launch of a new arts-led events programme to increase tourism and encourage local pride. Visit Greenwich and the local authority will work with the wellknown Greenwich+Docklands International Festival to produce high-quality and accessible arts activities for visitors and locals. Joyce Wilson, London Area Director, Arts Council England, said:  “Crossrail will bring with it huge opportunities for development of the local infrastructure, housing and economy, and it is vital that arts and culture remain at the table. I’m pleased we have been able to support Visit Greenwich’s plans, ensuring that there is a cultural heart to the developments that celebrates the area and stays true to its community.” www.visitgreenwich.org.uk

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How is the housing market doing? Richard Piddock, jdm Partner, provides a grass roots view of the local property market.

This is probably the most common question I get asked, which is not surprising as many of us are fascinated by the property market. Combine this with all the uncertainty that lies ahead, with BREXIT negotiations about to start and President Trump now at the helm, who knows what lies ahead! My aim is to try and provide a grass roots view of what is happening in the market each month. I am not a journalist, so excuse my prose, but as an estate agent who has worked in the area for the last 30 years, hopefully I can give you a flavour of what is happening. I also believe that activity in the market is very localised, so the headlines that you hear or read in the news don’t necessarily reflect what is happening locally. This particularly applies to London, where the prime inner London market suffered a decrease in values last year, whereas outer London prices increased.

movers start to search en masse. This increase in search activity is notable given that a year ago market activity was buoyed by the November announcement that second-home stamp duty would apply from April 2016. We have certainly found that across our 5 offices activity has been strong. In the first three weeks of January we have registered 603 new buyers and arranged 762 viewings. Rightmove also reported that there seems to be so far, a marked reluctance this year compared to last year for home-owners to put their property up for sale, with 13.7% fewer homes coming to market in London. I think this might have a lot to do the feeling of uncertainty, but what is does show is that if you are thinking of selling, now is a good time to get your home on the market, before there is more choice for buyers.

Pr C op h er is ty le of h th ur e s M t on th

So why a picture of my dog? Well it was by popular request from the publisher and we could play ‘Where’s Dougal’ each month!

Pr B op l er ac ty k of he th a e th M on th

Encouragingly Rightmove reported early indicators of housing demand also appear robust, with Rightmove traffic compared to a year ago up by 5% since Boxing Day, which is traditionally when

CROOMS HILL, GREENWICH POA

CHISLEHURST - £1,675,000

A rare opportunity to purchase a piece of history! Grade II-listed 2,800 SF Georgian town house opposite Greenwich Park. Cutty Sark DLR 0.3 miles. Within the ‘Maritime Greenwich’ World Heritage Site. EPC E

Rarely is there a property that is offered to the market with such character and charm as this. 4 beds, 3 baths. Approx 0.375 of an acre and in a sought after residential private road close to Chislehurst High Street and Royal Parade. EPC E

Established 1996

Blackheath 020 8463 0091

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Bromley 020 8313 6800

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Chislehurst 020 8325 8000

Lettings 01689 838040

ME R IDIA N INT ERIO RS

Kitchen Trends Come and Go But hand-built solid wood kitchens stand the test of time says Natalie Burch of Bathroom and Kitchen Installations.

‘Out with the old, in with the new’ – with spring on its way, it’s about now that we start to look at transforming our homes. The onset of longer (and possibly warmer!) days makes the refurbishment of a kitchen seem more appealing. Kitchen trends come and go, from minimalist white gloss to painted Shaker styles, although solid wood hand-built kitchens always seem to be the choice of the discerning customer. “It’s become apparent now that more and more people are enquiring about hand-built solid wood kitchens and are pleasantly surprised at how affordable we can produce them.” Whether you live in a period or modern property, solid wood oozes quality and individuality. The beauty of a hand-built solid wood kitchen is its uniqueness and ability to be bespoke-made to a client’s specific needs and existing space. Our kitchens can be built to match existing furniture or simply start from scratch. The cabinets, made by experienced cabinetmakers, and both carcass and door are solid wood throughout. The doors and drawers are made in the traditional way with morticed and tenoned joints and proper dovetail joints. We use top quality hinges, which are skilfully rebated into the door and the best soft close drawer runners. Superior quality and craftsmanship is guaranteed down to the last detail, such as premium BLUM fixings or traditional period ironmongery. The wood can be finished with a three coat lacquering process to bring out the natural beauty of the wood grain or painted in the finest Farrow & Ball colours, your kitchen will be a bespoke haven for family and friends to enjoy.

Nothing can quite match the quality of a bespoke handmade solid wood kitchen. Using a variety of beautiful, tactile wood, we can design and build a kitchen tailor-made for your specific space and needs; creating a stunning period kitchen of your dreams. Our initial free consultation can glean crucial information from our client, enabling a kitchen design that utilises space to the max with ergonomics to the forefront. Our Top Four Gadget Choices: Franke Minerva 3-in-1 Kettle Tap – Instant boiling hot water. Eliminates the kettle on the worktop and cuts down valuable cooking time. Franke also do a 4-in-1 Kettle Tap with the added facility of filtered water too. InSinkErator 200 Waste Disposal Unit – ALL food waste can go down this amazing unit, chicken carcasses, ribs, you name it! You will never have smelly dustbin bags, ravaged by foxes, again. Induction Hob – Heats up super-fast and cools down instantly. Looks great and is a dream to clean. Warming Drawer – Keeps your plates or bowls lovely and warm (saves up space in the oven, etc.) It keeps food warm (if you’re cooking for large groups of people) and can be used as a slow cooker. Natalie Burch Bathroom and Kitchen Installations www.bandkinstallations.co.uk 020 8226 2132

Cosy Up Nothing beats sitting in front of a roaring fire, even at this time of year, there’s still a frosty nip in the air. A wood burning stove can create a focal point in a living room and can suit either a period or contemporary home. Even if you don’t have a chimneybreast or gas supply, there will be a fireplace or wood burning stove that suits your room. Living in a smokeless zone doesn’t mean you can’t use a multifuel or wood burning stove, many are approved by DEFRA for use in smokefree zones just with a reliable supplier.

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Call 01322 557794

www.twintec.com watersofteners@meridian-magazine.co.uk

ME R IDIA N INT ERIO RS

It’s Crystal Clear

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

Does softened water taste salty?

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 units 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 leads 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.

No, salt is not added to the water. The salt is 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.

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.

Why choose a Twin Tec S3 water softener? 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.

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

For more information contact: Meridian Water Softeners

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

M E R IDIA N LIFEST YLE

The Common Law Spouse after Death You don’t have to say “I do” to be married was the original slogan for the 1963 film Common Law Wife in which a New Orleans stripper found a lawyer who argued that after 5 years she was a common law wife. However, there has been no legal concept of a common law spouse in England and Wales since 1753 and cohabiting partners have no common law rights equivalent to those of spouses. There is one curious exception. Cohabiting partners, Angharad and Benedict, live together for 20 years then break up without either having a claim on the assets of the other. However, Carter and Demelza cohabit for just two years before Carter dies and Demelza has a claim against his estate. In death the law recognises the cohabitee. This appears counter intuitive, for if in life there is no such thing as a common law spouse, how might the concept be brought into existence after death? The Inheritance Act 1975 allows a surviving cohabiting partner to bring a claim for reasonable financial provision against his/her deceased

partner’s estate provided they cohabited as if they Huw Jones were married for at least two years before death. at Beverley Morris & Co. The Act does not consider whether the claimant explains cohabitee rights is morally entitled to bring the claim but whether or not the will (or the intestacy if there is no will) failed to make reasonable financial provision for the claimant. Claims brought by spouses (including under the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013), civil partners and some former spouses are brought for what it is reasonable for the claimant to receive whether or not it is for that person’s maintenance. Claims by qualifying cohabitees are for such financial provision as it would be reasonable in all the circumstances of the case for the applicant to receive for his or her maintenance. Therefore the cohabitee does not have quite the same rights as a spouse. Claims may also be brought by children of the deceased or those treated as such and by anyone maintained by the deceased. In many cases the court has to carry out a difficult balancing exercise. Claims must be issued within six months from the date of the grant of representation to the estate.

If you require advice or representation on a dispute or seek some preliminary advice on a concern, contact Huw Jones on 020 8852 4433. If you would like to make a will ask for Geoff. If you would like advice on a current cohabitee relationship ask for Claire or Tony.

ME R IDIA N HERITAGE

Rich heritage of St Alfege Church explored in university research The role of St Alfege Church at the centre of the community is the theme of a research project being carried out at the University of Greenwich. Alison Fisher, a Greenwich resident and also a postgraduate student at the university, has been awarded a Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship, which will enable her to look into the church’s rich history and its place in the country’s local and national heritage.

In this way, the project will shine new light on the rich heritage and hidden spaces of this church, which is central to the town of Greenwich.

A Grade 1 listed building, St Alfege Church is a key part of the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site. It was the first church built under the Fifty New Churches Act of 1711, and the first complete church project undertaken by Nicholas Hawksmoor, one of England’s most original and significant architects. Alison, a qualified architect, says she is delighted to be able to pursue her passion for history while based within the university’s award-winning Faculty of Architecture, Computing & Humanities. “I welcome this fantastic opportunity to explore how these buildings and monuments reflect the history of our community and relate to the wider national context,” she says. “The position of St Alfege Church within the social framework of this area is central to understanding the development of Greenwich, and I’m keen to delve into its complex history. The physical memorials and surviving church records will enable me to examine the church’s rich and varied role at key moments over two and half centuries.” Alison’s research also ties in with the St Alfege Church project, called Heart of Greenwich, Place and People, which has received initial support from the Heritage Lottery Fund and aims to open up the church’s ‘hidden spaces’ and rich heritage for everyone. Thanks to National Lottery players, development funding has been awarded to help St Alfege Church progress plans to apply for a full grant at a later date. The Rev Chris Moody, Vicar of St Alfege, adds: “Our church holds the history of Greenwich and its community. We are delighted that Alison is developing this fascinating line of research, which will uncover much about its history.

Revd Chris Moody, Professor Neil Spiller and Alison Fisher outside St Alfege Church “As an architect and local resident, Alison is uniquely qualified, and we are tremendously grateful to the University of Greenwich for awarding her the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship. We would also be interested to hear from anyone with family links to the church, and have set up a book to note these in our vestibule.” Working within the university’s Department of History, Politics & Social Sciences, Alison will explore the relationship between the church and community, and analyse how they interacted over the years. She will investigate three key points in its history: the creation of the church by Nicholas Hawksmoor in the early 1700s; the development of an ‘overflow’ church, St Mary’s, in 1825; and the restoration of St Alfege by Sir Albert Richardson, following extensive damage during the Second World War. As well as looking at the whole church building, Alison will refer to individual gravestones, burial vaults, church archives and the public burial ground in order to build an in-depth insight into the communities that operated the church at these three key moments in time.

Alison Fisher in the church’s crypt.

For more on St Alfege: www.st-alfege.org/ For more on studying with the university’s Faculty of Architecture, Computing & Humanities: www.gre.ac.uk/ach

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ME R IDIA N OUT AND ABOU T

Community Cinema comes to Chislehurst By Tamsyn Clark

Until 1960, Chislehurst had its own purpose-built cinema in the building that is now St Patrick’s Church at the bottom of Chislehurst High St. Since its departure, residents must now travel to Bromley or neighbouring areas to get their movie fix. So, it is very exciting to hear that a community cinema has started once a month, at Chislehurst’s newest community venue – The Old Chapel. The venture is a collaboration between Chapel Films and The Chislehurst Society, who bring classics, recent releases and undiscovered gems to a newly-renovated Victorian building, at the heart of Chislehurst. It is also entirely not-for-profit meaning that prices are very affordable at just £5 a ticket. The film season started in October 2016, with a sold-out screening of Alfred Hitchcock’s masterpiece, Rear Window, starring James Stewart and Grace Kelly. Since then, its screenings have sold out, with many people returning and booking for future films with some reserving their seats for the entire season.

The Old Chapel is a relatively new venue for Chislehurst. It nestles behind Prickend Pond and the Queen’s Head pub. Standing since 1856, the building has been (variously): a liberal club, Sunday school, Salvation Army hall, boys’ club and scientific glass factory - as well as, for 10 years, a chapel. Now it’s the home of The Chislehurst Society. One of the Chapel Film’s organisers, Michael Barrett, said, “We’ve been holding on to the idea of beginning a film night in Chislehurst for years. It always struck us that a place the size of Chislehurst ought to have more of an arts offering and we’d been thinking of possible venues for a while. When we learned that the Chislehurst Society was renovating the Old Chapel and that Joanna Friel of the Society was enthusiastic about our idea, it was obviously the moment to get started.” The films are eclectic. Their plan is to show films they know to be great. They have included Hitchcock classics plus a Canadian documentary, Stories We Tell, which whilst far less known, received a big turn out and even tears were shed by attendees. Cinema-goers can enjoy fine films in a special, atmospheric setting right on their doorstep.

Michael adds; “A very important part of the whole project is that it’s a community event, run by just three of us, and definitely not-for-profit! We charge as little as we can in order to break even on the night, give away homemade cakes and hot drinks and make the Old Chapel twinkly, warm and inviting on a Friday night. And people are welcome to bring a bottle - we provide the glasses and we’ll even do the washing-up. ” The Chislehurst Society, owners of the Old Chapel, are delighted to be working with Chapel Films on the project. Joanna Friel, Vice Chair at the Society said; “It’s been a positive partnership, bringing a fresh cultural activity to the Chislehurst community and attracting a new audience to the Old Chapel. I’ve loved working alongside Michael Barrett, his brother Christian and Jo Rogers, the creative energy behind the project.” Films coming up at the Old Chapel include: The Waitress (2007), Double Indemnity (1944), Midnight in Paris (2011), Enough Said (2013) and North by Northwest (1959). Find more information at www.chapelfilmschis.com

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ME R IDIA N HEALT H

Intercontinental London The O2 Spa An Oasis of calm on the Greenwich Peninsula

Occasionally, I get the opportunity to review a beauty product or spa treatments. I know, it’s a tough job, but someone has to do it. This time it’s the Spa at the Intercontinental London The O2 on the Greenwich Peninsula. Perfectly located with views of the River Thames and Canary Wharf - the hub of the financial world is a million miles away from this oasis of calm. As I arrive by taxi and pass through the opened door by the smiling doorman, the impressive lobby offers a taste of what’s to come. Directed to the spa, I’m greeted by a friendly receptionist and offered the regulatory medical history card to complete before being shown around the facilities. There is a real sense of tranquility, not a sound from the busy lobby filters through to the spa environment. As you would expect from a luxury hotel, the spa doesn’t disappoint; from the stunning ‘oriental’ interior design to the spacious changing rooms with towels, robes and slippers. I’m shown the way to the pool area and advised to return to the reception five minutes before my treatment. A quick change and back to the pool, which looks inviting and benefits from the large,

floor to ceiling window area at one end that gives a hint of blue sky. Several uninterrupted lengths of the pool, an invigorating water massage in the jacuzzi and just time to sample the steam room and sauna. Followed up with a brisk exfoliation with ice from the ice fountain (slightly painful but the afterglow was worth it). Next, my treatment: a back massage. Hunched over a keyboard is so bad for the neck and shoulders, but we all do it. I’m taken upstairs to the lounge area with complimentary refreshments, the fruit teas are supplied by the East Indian Tea Company, a cup of aptly named ‘Bliss’ hits the spot, as I relaxed before my therapist arrived and introduced herself. As she guides me to the treatment room. I’m impressed by the sheer size of the room, its muted lighting and sumptuous bed.

getting deep into the muscle tissue and releasing the tension. Completely unaware of the time passing, just a sense of total relaxation, something I’m not used to. After my thirty minutes, she quietly explained that my neck should feel much better, advising me to go and relax, and let the oils soak in, before showering, for the best effect. Shown into a separate relaxation lounge, I can recline, with fruit infused water and a selection of healthy nibbles and a magazine or two - heaven. I was genuinely sad to leave, but duty calls. The spa offers a comprehensive range of treatments and packages. Of their eight treatment rooms one has two beds perfect for couples or inseparable friends. There is also a fully equipped gym, for those that want to work out before relaxing. Valerie Breese

After discussing my medical history and getting to the route of my stiff neck, I can relax on the bed and the massage can start, but first a couple deep breathes and the immediate effect from the aromatherapy oils; I’m completely relaxed.

Intercontinental London The O2 1 Waterview Drive, Greenwich Peninsula, SE10 0TW. 020 8463 6868. www.intercontinental.com

Barclay

The therapist, though only slight in stature, has an amazing ability to put pressure into the massage,

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ME R ID IAN H E ALT H

MyDetoxDiet opens UK’s juice bar and spa in Blackheath

MyDetoxDiet.co.uk, the leading detox diet company, launched their second juice bar and spa in Blackheath. Combining a juice bar with delicious detox foods, vegan and gluten-free cakes and a spa offering a range of beauty and detox treatments, including Colon Hydrotherapy; MyDetoxDiet in Blackheath is a sanctuary of health and revitalisation, from top to toe. Their foods, juices and supplements have been created to cleanse and energise the body and revitalise the mind. MyDetoxDiet.co.uk also offers a selection of dedicated detox and weight-loss treatments in their beautiful spa. You will find three dedicated treatment rooms for specific lifestyle and beauty treatments that complement the healthy eating, cleansing and detoxing process - all delivered by experienced therapists. MyDetoxDiet is located at 1A Cresswell Park, SE3 9RD, just one minute from Blackheath Station. www.mydetoxdiet.co.uk, T: 02083184881. Quote “MeridianFEB” and get a free coffee if you buy any salad or cake.

M E R IDIA N HEALT H

Smile!

Did you know that your next dental check-up can cost as little as £19.50 If you are looking for high quality dental care at affordable prices, look no further. The highly regarded Smile Impressions Dental Practice at 54 Micheldever Road (Lee SE12 8LU) has surplus NHS funding for 200 patients, which must be used for NHS check-ups and treatment by the end of March. NHS dental charges fall into three bands: Band 1 £19.70 Comprehensive dental assessment (includes x-rays, oral cancer check, scale and polish) Band 2 £53.90 All treatment in Band 1 PLUS fillings, extractions, root canals, and denture relining Band 3 £233.70 All treatment in Band 1 and Band 2 PLUS crowns, bridges, and dentures NHS dental care in general dental practice is free if you are: • Under 18 • Under 19 and in full-time education • Pregnant or you have had a baby within the 12 months before treatment starts • Able to prove another reason for your entitlement to NHS dentistry, as set out on the page titled “Who is entitled to free NHS dental treatment in England” on the NHS Choices website www.nhs.uk

The friendly Smile Impressions team provides gentle quality care and goes the extra mile to ensure that it is fun for children to visit the dentist with badges, certificates, stickers and giggles. Just visit their website (www. smileimpressions.com) to see for yourself. Their philosophy is simple......they provide dental treatment for existing problems to a high standard, then work with patients on a preventive approach to minimise future dentistry. NHS dentistry offers the full range of functional dental care that is clinically necessary to keep your teeth, gums and mouth healthy. NHS care does not include cosmetic treatments to improve your appearance that are not clinically necessary. The full range of private options is also available with Smile Impressions - including hygienist care, implants, tooth whitening and tooth straightening – just ask the dentist who carries out your full dental assessment. Call Smile Impressions on 0208 852 4055 NOW to book your NHS Dental Assessment. Limited availability Appointments available Mondays 8.30am -7pm, Tuesday - Friday 8.30am - 5pm Alt Saturdays 9.30am -1pm

MERIDIAN W E DDIN GS

Impress Your Wedding Guests Make your big day one for you and your wedding guests to remember for all the right reasons. Location, location, location

Gone are the days where your choice of wedding venue was limited to church, registry office or hotel. Choosing a sensational location for your celebrations is guaranteed to get everyone talking, so think outside the box. You could tie the knot in a castle folly at sunset, surround yourselves in 1930’s Art Deco style, or a mix of contemporary art with the elegance of a Queen’s House. The sky’s the limit!

Dress to impress

It goes without saying that you want your dress to be one of the big talking points of the day, so think about what will make your guests’ eyes pop out when you walk down the aisle. It could be a brightly coloured dress, a dramatic train or a tea-length gown with a pair of to-die-for shoes. Alternatively, let your bridesmaids make a statement – try dressing them in mismatched candy colours or bold retro prints, or furnish them with striking accessories like parasols or button bouquets.

The personal touch

Writing your own wedding vows isn’t just a romantic gesture; it also makes your ceremony memorable for your nearest and dearest. Instead of reciting the stale old words, couples can design a ceremony that is perfectly in tune with who they are and incorporate rituals and traditions to make it unique.

Food for thought

A cool alternative to a traditional sit-down meal is to let guests dine from a number of food stations so they can pick their favourite dishes. Popular options are international cuisine, waffle bars, crepes, canapés and even fondue – it’s a great way to satisfy every appetite and ensure your wedding menu makes a fab foodie statement. From cakes to dresses and venue to flowers, there are so many things to think about and organise, that you may want to employ a wedding planner to take the stress out of your wedding, too.

Looking for inspiration? This spring, The National Wedding Show returns with a spectacular line up, packed with the nation’s finest wedding suppliers and the hottest names on the high street. Plus tons of entertainment and tastings for the entire bridal party to enjoy. The National Wedding Show will tour the country to bring brides-to-be the very latest in stationery, fashion, honeymoons, beauty and much more! There’s something for everyone; from the renowned Revlon Runway, showcasing the latest trends from the Bridal and Designer Boutiques, to the marvellous

Makeover Theatre, promising to leave you feeling prepped for your big day. London Olympia 17– 19 February www.nationalweddingshow.co.uk To enter go to: www.meridian-magazine.co.uk/ win, or alternatively, email your name, address and daytime number to win@meridian-magazine.co.uk or send a postcard with your details to Meridian magazine, 68 Summerhouse Drive, Bexley Kent DA5 2EE.

WIN

TICKETS

M E RID IA N W EDDINGS

WEDDING ESSENTIALS Dragonfly Lifestyle

The Voewood

‘Where Fashion and Spirit Meet’

The Voewood lifestyle store at Blackheath Royal Standard, SE3, is full of perfect wedding presents. Ideas include gorgeous wool, cashmere and mohair throws, handmade photo frames, ceramics and framed prints. The bride and groom can put together a wedding gift list by arrangement and gift cards are available in store or by post.

Hair accessories from £15 Labradorite crystal from an available selection

Jules and Louise at Dragonfly Lifestyle are well known for their unique and affordable bridal accessories and jewellery. As well as in store collections, the ideal pieces for your special day can be sourced especially for you. They look forward to helping you create your dream look.

13 Old Dover Rd, London SE3 7BT 020 8293 7988 Avoca Throw

Karen Woolven Flowers

www.dragonflylifestyle.co.uk

Beautiful flowers, perfectly arranged and expertly designed. We understand how important it is that your flowers are perfect on your special day and we are devoted to delivering flawless quality and beautiful design in every piece.

6 Turnpin Lane Greenwich SE10 9JA 0208 858 4445

kwfloraldesign.co.uk 020 8858 1112 18 Royal Hill, London, Greenwich SE10 8RT

IDApod

Trafalgar Tavern considered and executed to standards that exceed every expectation.

Steeped in history, combining stunning views over the river Thames with the lights of Canary Wharf twinkling in the background, there is no compromising style or substance with a wedding at the Trafalgar Tavern. From eye-catching floral arrangements, to a delicious menu crafted by you and our head chef, everything created for the big day is tailored to you, ensuring that every wedding is totally unique. With a dedicated events team and a personal wedding coordinator at your disposal, we aim to take all the stress of planning your day away, with every aspect

When you hire the Trafalgar Tavern you will have exclusive use of the whole first floor, including the ‘Admiral’s Gallery’ private bar, ‘The Ante Room’ reception room and the ‘Nelson Room’ ballroom. With the ability to cater for parties of 50 to 200 seated guests, with space for up to 380 standing, and close relationships with bands and DJs, we ensure that you and your guests will have the most memorable of days. Come down and see what we can offer, meet our team and take in the stunning venue when we open our doors for our wedding fair on Sunday 2nd April. www.trafalgartavern.co.uk Tel: 020 8858 2909 info@trafalgartavern.co.uk Park Row, Greenwich, London, SE10 9NW

Why the ‘must have’ item in 2017 is still a photo booth! Ticking off the ‘things to do list’, whether it be a sunny spring/summer wedding or a magical winter wedding. The ‘must have’ item is official! Thinking entertainment… ...Think Ida Pod Photo Booths! Not only is a wedding day a busy day; there can be lots of missed moments that can be captured easily in an Ida Pod. This fun form of entertainment captures moments in the moment. www.idapod.com 0203 714 7433 Ida Pod Photo Booths

WEDDING ESSENTIALS Intercontinental London The O2

Health & Awareness

Our Silk & Bubbles Hen Party Package* includes a 30-minute treatment, use of facilities and a premium cocktail making master class with canapés. £95 per person *Minimum booking for 4 guests. Download the spa brochure and treatment menu at: www.iclondon-theo2.com/spa 1 Waterview Drive, Greenwich Peninsula SE10 0TW How can you be the best version of you? At Health & Awareness we care about your well-being. We will tailor make the perfect mix of therapies for you.

The Perfect Place Hall Place and Gardens is a lovely oasis located just off the A2 in Bexley. With award-winning gardens and a beautiful Tudor/Jacobean house. The historic house makes the perfect wedding venue with a stunning Great Hall with panelled walls and enclosed courtyards. It is an ideal alternative to a church or registry office ceremony or as a reception venue to wow your guests. www.hallplace.org.uk 01322 526574 Hall Place, Bourne Rd, Dartford, Bexley DA5 1PQ

Locale

Working with: 1. Stress/Anxiety 2. Relationship 3. Financial woes 4. Body issues Call us today on 07889755299 and book your first session using the PROMO code MERFEB and get 50% off. How does it get better than that?

Sparklysmile Don’t forget to check out your smile so that it really sparkles on your wedding day. These days it is simple to whiten your teeth, but it can take a couple of weeks or more to make sure you make the most out of your smile. 19 Montpelier Vale London SE3 0TA 020 8852 0442 phil@sparklysmile.co.uk

The locale wedding experience is designed to be as unique as you are. From your initial meeting with our events team to the moment you toast your celebration, you will have a dedicated team working with you. Our full planning service offers everything required on your special day. We invite you to an initial complimentary consultation with our events team to showcase what we do and to get to know you and your ideas for your big day. 1 Lawn terrace, Blackheath village London SE3 9LJ 0208 852 0700 Localerestaurants.Com

Greenwich Tea Party We will deliver the crockery, pick it up from your venue and do all your washing up, taking all the stress out of the event. We also offer table service and wine waiting. We are able to cater for any event from ‘tea for two’ up to large weddings. www.greenwichteapartyvintage.co.uk 01322 442844 6 The Pantiles, Bexleyheath Kent DA7 5HD

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ME RID IA N W EDDINGS

Lets Face It You’ve stressed over the seating plan, argued over the guest list and nearly had a break down over the budget - and now you’re supposed to look gorgeous? Time to indulge in some serious me-time. You should start preparing your skin as early as possible, so get plenty of sleep and drink lots of water. Any new beauty treatments should be tried one month before rather than a day before the wedding. Also before your wedding day, its important to stick to a skin care routine; no more sleeping with make-up, seriously don’t do it. Find a skincare range that works well for you and keep your skincare simple. Cleansing, toning and moisturising are the cornerstone of any skincare regime, so find a skincare line you like and stick to it. If you are prone to breakouts then make sure that you get enough zinc in your diet; foods such as red meat, seafood, nuts and spinach will help. If the worst does happen, and a spot erupts on your big day, use a calming spot buster, which uses tea

Every bride wants to look her best but when the wedding countdown speeds up, it can be hard not to panic. tree and lavender to soothe angry blemishes. If there was ever a time to have perfect pretty nails, your wedding day is definitely it. Your hands are going to be centre of attention; everyone is going to want to see the bling on your finger. Think about the close up photos, you need your hands and nails to be as pristine as possible. Moisturise your hands daily with a good quality hand cream, packed with vitamins and minerals, to solve any problem dryness and ensure hands are silky smooth. Use a good cuticle oil to moisturise and nourish the cuticle base and help promote strong healthy nails. Most brides try to shift some weight prior to the wedding day. You want to feel beautiful, confident and you want your wedding dress to look amazing. But trying to lose weight can be pretty tough; the best and most effective way to lose weight is through a healthy diet and regular exercise.

ME R IDIA N FO O D & DRINK

Eat Drink and be Married

Food of Love

Wedding Tastings are a must.

For all those singletons, Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to declare your love with dinner for two. Do aphrodisiacs work? Do they really have the power to induce an amorous mood and lift the libido? History and cultures around the world believe they do. Here are several foods that range from sweet to spicy and should ignite your passion… Chile peppers score near the top of love’s leaderboard. Their ability to release endorphins can cause a boost in mood and surge in energy as good as a runner’s high. Why does eating Chocolate make us so happy? It’s a chemical thing. The ‘food of the gods’ contains theobromine, a stimulating alkaloid similar to caffeine. Chocolate also helps the brain produce feel-good serotonin. Be sure to indulge in the dark variety — it contains incredible amounts of antioxidants. Goji Berries are tiny, nutrition-rich fruits are known as “happy berries” in China, where they are held in high regard for their aphrodisiac powers.

Juggling all of the details involved with wedding planning can be difficult, to say the least, but one thing you should definitely make time for is a food tasting. A wedding tasting is about the food, yes, but it’s also about building a comfortable relationship with your caterer. Whether your wedding venue is providing catering or you’re using an outside vendor, most reliable caterers offer potential clients tastings of their food, from hors d’oeuvres to main courses — and it’s a good idea to take them up on it. The tasting has become increasingly important as couples increasingly choose to personalise everything from their signature cocktails to their desserts; this is the only dress rehearsal for food that you have.

If you’ve hired a wedding planner or consultant, you should include him or her in the tasting; it’s the wedding planner’s job to be the clear-eyed troubleshooter, and to make sure you get the service you want. Wedding tastings allows you to try a choice of the most popular dishes offered or to request specific foods and dietary requirements. Its also an opportunity answer menu questions and/or provide recommendations to suit your needs. Your event coordinator will also use this time to go over other important details with you, such as colour schemes, linen and china choices, floral decorations, and timeline running order to name a few.

Oysters these mouthwatering mollusks are the classic aphrodisiac. And, there’s research to support it: raw oysters are very high in zinc, which raises the production of testosterone It has been speculated that the forbidden fruit Eve bit into in the Garden of Eden was not an apple, but a juicy Pomegranate. Dating back to ancient Roman times, Strawberries have always been seen as romantic fruits. In fact, they are the symbol for Venus, the Goddess of Love.

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ME R IDIA N FO O D & DRINK

Gin tasting Maritime Spirit Clipper Bar at InterContinental London – The O2, is a unique space perched on the edge of the River Thames, offering 270 degree views of London’s spectacular skyline.

The Learning Loaf Baking Academy The Learning Loaf: Introduction to Sourdough Bread Making, this is a hands-on sourdough bread making class with Graham Penn. This full day class will show you how to achieve the crust and crumb, taste and texture you’ve always aspired to. You will learn many techniques, from starter to baking. This includes keeping a healthy leaven, mixing, kneading, and shaping - to create the perfect loaf. February 18, 10am – 4pm. £125 The day includes lunch, refreshments and a Q&A session. All equipment and recipes are provided. Bookings visit www.thelearningloaf.com Griffin House, Charlton Manor Primary School, Indus Road, Charlton SE7 7EF.

Aqua Bromley

Win

DINN ER FOR T WO

This contemporary restaurant in the heart of Bromley’s restaurant area offers a menu, which has a fusion of Greek, Italian and French cuisine in modern Mediterranean dishes. Everything is made from scratch and cooked on the premises, unlike many high street chains where the trend is towards pre-cooked food. Guests can enjoy a gin tasting accompanied by locally sourced food. The bespoke experience will last between 60 and 90 minutes, and explores four exquisite gins accompanied by an array of English cheese and British cured meats. Gins include: Monkey 47, Aviation, Clipper (bespoke House Gin) and Gin Mare. Prices start from £70 for two people. Clipper Bar has been designed to reflect the history of its surrounding area, with a large central bar representing the clipper boats, which navigated through the area via the East India Trading routes back in the 1600’s. The bar serves its bespoke Clipper Gin, distilled by

the City of London Distillery and the in-house world class mixologist, which includes botanical aromas from herbs and spices which once passed through the area. Clipper Gin also has an alcohol percentage that matches the highest recorded speed of a Clipper Boat during the great races of 1600’s – 43.6%. Clipper Bar is open daily, 12am to 12pm. ClipperBar@iclondon-theo2.com For more information: www.trulyexperiences.com/uk/gin-tastingflight-clipper-bar-intercontinental-o2

“When we offer freshly prepared and freshly cooked food, it’s exactly that, and the furthest a dish travels is from the kitchen to the table” says owner, Dasos. WIN A 3-course set meal for two, plus a bottle of house wine (available Sunday to Thursday). To enter go to: www.meridianmagazine.co.uk/win, or alternatively email your name, address and daytime number to win@meridian-magazine.co.uk or send a postcard with your details to Meridian magazine, 68 Summerhouse Drive, Bexley Kent DA5 2EE.

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ME R IDIA N FO O D & DRINK

Lifestyle Lazy Sundays

Eggs benedict, the perfect start to a Sunday

Brunch was invented for Sundays. The next time you’re enjoying a delightful brunch, be sure to clink your glass to the meal’s inventor, Guy Beringer, and his inspiration: the hangover. The English writer first proposed the idea for the mixed meal in his 1895 essay “Brunch: A Plea.” In it, Beringer defended those nursing their Sunday morning hangovers. Instead of rousing folks from bed and confronting them with a heavy spread of meat pies, Beringer proposed a mid-morning compromise: a hybrid meal so they could slowly shake off their headaches and calm their gurgling stomachs.

Afternoon tea is as a perfect indulgence on a Sunday

Brunch is now the perfect way to enjoy a lazy Sunday, with or without a hangover, choose from bubble and squeak to eggs benedict, lashings of coffee and the newspapers in your favourite café/bar. A brisk walk and pint is a national institution on a Sunday

Zeytin for brunch - www.zeytinrestaurant.co.uk Aqua for a lazy lunch - www.aquabarandgrill.co.uk

Taking Afternoon Tea Few can resist the temptations of perfectly decorated sweet treats and finger sandwiches, all arranged flawlessly on an elegant three tier silver stand. These days, afternoon tea is often seen as an indulgence for special occasions or if you just want to allow yourself a pleasure in life. This hasn’t always been the case however, as the custom of afternoon tea was once an essential daily undertaking. It came about during the Georgian period, sometime from 1714 to 1830, as a small meal between lunch and dinner. The story goes that the Duchess of Bedford, Anna Maria Russell, began a daily afternoon ritual of having sliced sandwiches and small cakes along with some tea in her room by herself. Being a socially active person, she eventually began to invite others to join her. The popularity of this ritual soon started to spread and became fashionable both amongst the upper and lower classes of the British society! Clarendon - www.clarendonhotel.com Charlton House - www.greenwichheritage.org/visit/charlton-house

A Pint at Your Local It’s what weekends are for, spending time with friends and family or maybe just walking the dog with your partner. Greenwich Park is perfect for a leisurely stroll, whatever time of year; with expansive views of the rest of Greenwich, the River Thames and the city beyond from the viewing platform by the statue of General James Wolfe. Home to the Royal Observatory, Maritime Museum and the Meridian Line, there is plenty to see and do. Or you could follow a section of the Green Chain Walk’s Thames Path, which runs from the Thames Barrier in Woolwich to the Royal Naval College in Greenwich. A great way to work up a thirst and blow the cobwebs away. Our local area has some great pubs with a wealth of locally brewed beers and comfort food to match. Trafalgar Tavern - www.trafalgartavern.co.uk Greenwich Tavern - www.greenwichtavern.co.uk

Bianco 43 Offer a Weekend Babysitting Service In their Blackheath and South Croydon restaurants, diners will be invited to enjoy a relaxed, leisurely meal knowing that their little ones are being taken care of by professional childminders. This service is available all year round on Saturdays and Sundays from 12noon – 4pm. To reserve your child’s space simply ask when making your reservation. www.bianco43.com. 020 8318 2700. Bianco43, 1-3 Lee Rd, Blackheath SE3 9RQ

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M E RID IA N EDUCAT IO N

Young Chorister of the Year mixes with the stars Founded in 604 AD. King’s Rochester is the oldest Cathedral Choir School in the world and second oldest school. King’s Rochester pupil and deputy head chorister of Rochester Cathedral, Edward Hyde, triumphantly won BBC Radio 2 Young Chorister of the Year, in October 2016. Since then, Edward, who is just 12 years old and in Year 8, has been whisked off on an exhilarating media tour which has involved interviews with several BBC Radio programmes including the BBC Radio 2 Christmas Day Special with Diane Louise Jordan, spending time chatting with Russell Watson about life as a chorister and performing at the prestigious ‘Carols from Chelsea’ in aid of Cancer Research. Throughout, Edward has spoken highly about how his time at King’s Rochester has helped to propel him to where he is today. Music is a jewel in King’s crown. Our music school offers variety and vitality that begins

on your child’s very first day in nursery and continues throughout their education. Each year, talented Sixth Form performers obtain scholarships for distinguished music institutions across the UK and abroad, and go on to achieve great success. King’s is easily accessible from Kent and the South East and 30 minutes by train from Bromley South and central London and enjoys a beautiful, safe location in the heart of Rochester. To find out more about King’s Rochester, a great place to start is our Open Day on Saturday 25th February 2017 from 9.15am to 12.00pm. No booking is required but for further information, please contact the Registrar on 01634 888590 or email admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk

ME R IDIA N EDUCAT IO N NE WS

Faraday School Faraday Prep School in the Docklands has appointed a new Head Teacher, Novak Ivanovic, who will join the school at the start of the summer term in April. Mr Ivanovic is currently Deputy Head of the Silver Birch Academy Trust group of schools in north London. Speaking about his new role, he said: “I am looking forward to joining Faraday as Head Teacher to build on the school’s excellent foundations and ethos. The traditional curriculum and the friendly, confident pupils at the heart of a creative community at Trinity Buoy Wharf are particularly appealing.” www.faradayschool.co.uk 7 Trinity Buoy Wharf E14 0FH 020 7719 9342

Home Tutor With over thirty-five years experience in teaching, home tutor Janet Turner has an excellent knowledge in the assessment of children’s educational needs. Preferring to work in collaboration with parents at each stage of assessment, planning, and delivery - after all, parents know their children best. Janet works in the client’s own home, as children are generally happier in a secure environment. It also enables her to give instant feedback and, if needed, to discuss any issues arising from the lesson. “I believe my methods bolster the confidence of children and young people and private tuition gives them the edge in tests and exams.” Janet Turner, Home Tutor. For further information please call 020 8317 3844

Learn Spanish @ Spangles Learning Spanish is more than just a boost to your CV or handy for traveling. You become smarter, as you have to negotiate and communicate in Spanish. You build multitasking skills, as you have to switch from one language to the other. Your memory improves, learning involves memorising rules and vocabulary, which improves overall memory, by strengthening the mental muscle. You become more perceptive, as you are more adept at focusing on relevant information. Your decision-making skills improve. As you have to filter what is more important. You improve your English. As you have to study grammar, phonetics, etc. Unlock your potential to learn, join us at Spangles Spanish Courses. Contact us for more information. Courses starting in February. www.spangles.cc 01622 735292 www.facebook.com/SpanglesSpanish

ME RID IA N EDUCAT IO N

Consultation on Mixed School Status Plumstead Manor is a thriving girls’ school of 1500 students in south east London. There has been a girls’ school on the site since 1913, and this year in fact represents the 50th Year of the school being known as Plumstead Manor. The school has a deep commitment to blending academic excellence alongside a deep and personalised approach to providing the highest quality care and support so that all young people can succeed. The school has recently been asked to consider a major change. Across Royal Greenwich there is a need for more school secondary school places over the next few years, due to a significant growth in population. The local authority are considering the number of places available at secondary schools in the area carefully. Last autumn, the Department for Education gave the go ahead for a new girls’ free school to open up in Thamesmead in the north east of the borough, from September 2018. This will bring the total number of girls’ schools in the local authority to four. It is in this context that Royal Greenwich Council has approached the Governing Body of Plumstead Manor to ask them to consult on taking a mixed intake of girls and boys from September 2018. This consultation has entered an informal stage which closes on 10th February 2017. After that, the formal statutory process will get underway. In each stage, both informal and formal, parents and carers, students and staff, alongside members of the local community have the opportunity to have their say about the proposals. Meetings have already taken place at the school. More information and the consultation documents are available on the council website, as well as the school’s main website. The school would urge everyone to consider the details carefully and to have their say.

The school’s Head Teacher, Douglas Greig commented: “Together we have to consider this important question. Plumstead Manor is committed to serving the local community. We are being asked to consider an important decision, so that we can secure the future of a secondary school in the Plumstead area, and can continue providing a high quality education to the young people of Greenwich. I would urge members of the community to get involved in this consultation, to find and out more information, and to have their say in what is a very important decision. That is the only way we can make sure we achieve the best outcome for the future education of young people across the Royal Borough of Greenwich.” www.plumsteadmanor.com

M E R I DI A N E DUCATI O N

Babington House: Excellent Education

Babington House was inspected by the ISI in November 2016, under a new inspection framework and was judged to be ‘Excellent’ in all areas – the highest grade available and a rare accolade, particularly for an all through school from 3 to 18 years. Quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements – Excellent “Pupils throughout the school display excellent attitudes to learning that are evident in all that they do, and an atmosphere of happy endeavour permeates school life.” “Pupils in class apply themselves with thorough enjoyment, are keen to do well and are eager to be challenged.” “Throughout the school, academic attainment is often well in advance of that expected at the relevant levels of age and of stage of development.” “Pupils record considerable success in extra-curricular activities.” “Pupils’ high standard of achievements reflects the highly effective tracking and monitoring systems put in place throughout the school to help pupils develop their initiative and independence, and take the lead in their learning.” Quality of the pupils’ personal development – Excellent “Pupils are confident, independent learners and thinkers with high personal values and an awareness of their responsibilities in the outside world, fully reflecting the school’s aims. They contribute fully to the happy, relaxed and close-knit community.” “Pupils’ approach is unfailingly polite, friendly, happy and harmonious. They accept full responsibility for their behaviour, which is exemplary.” “Pupils co-operate and work superbly together as team members. In class, in sport, in clubs and around the school, they demonstrate thoughtfulness and respect.” “Pupils prepare themselves well for their futures, and the school provides full pastoral and academic support which helps pupils to fulfil their dreams and potential.” Headmaster, Mr Tim Lello says: “I am immensely proud to lead such a vibrant community. Babington House is an excellent school in every way. The boys and girls receive a first class education in a supportive and academic environment.” Come and see for yourself, our next Open Morning is on Saturday 11 March from 9am. Alternatively, contact Mrs Lee, Admissions Registrar, to book an appointment to come and meet the Headmaster for a personal tour of the school. www.babingtonhouse.com

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ME RID IA N EDUCAT IO N

Why is play and a creative approach to learning so important for your child? Today’s child faces enormous pressure. With rigorous testing and the knock on impact on mental health, the next generation has a 10% likelihood of suffering from stress, depression and anxiety, during their childhood and adolescence. The education offered at the Greenwich Steiner School however, recognises the strain today’s child is under and works out of a model of child development that takes a much more preventative and holistic approach. You may already be aware of all the latest research that confirms what we’ve also discovered – play and a creative approach to learning actually enhances concentration, builds resilience and inspires curiosity in children. At a Guardian roundtable discussion in 2013 on this very subject, a participant suggested that: “Creativity comes as a result of trial and error, collaboration, curiosity, being fearless and experimenting.” To promote creativity, he argued, teachers need to move away from a ‘broadcast’ model of education and allow children a degree of freedom to make discoveries for themselves.” This completely reflects our approach, which is also unhurried and ageappropriate. At the Greenwich Steiner School, we foster a love of learning in our pupils, without compromising on academic success. We know that more effective learning and increased motivation arise from playful approaches. Play is good for language use, for early phonics and literacy, and for intellectual and emotional self-regulation.

In his report on the value of play, Dr David Whitebread, a developmental cognitive psychologist and early years specialist from the University of Cambridge, says: “Play in all its rich variety is one of the highest achievements of the human species, alongside language, culture and technology. Indeed, without play, none of these other achievements would be possible.” There are numerous health benefits to indoor and outdoor play – our children are outside whatever the weather, making their own discoveries in ways that are congruent with their developing needs. Steiner Waldorf education is now the fastest growing alternative to mainstream education around the world. Why not come to one of our Open Mornings and see for yourself if our tried and tested methodologies for educating children are the right fit for your child? www.greenwichsteinerschool.org.uk/open-mornings

ME R IDIA N EDUCAT IO N

Bishop Challoner School, Shortlands Positive feedback from 2016 ISI Inspection I am delighted to announce that Bishop Challoner School met all the compliance standards with no action points at its recent inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate. The quality of pupils’ academic and other achievements has been graded as ‘Good’ and the quality of the pupils’ personal development has been graded as ‘Excellent’. I would like to express my thanks to the school community for its continued commitment and dedication and to our pupils for always ‘daring to do their very best’. They are a credit to the school and we are immensely proud of them. We look forward to welcoming prospective pupils to our successful school at our next Open Morning on Saturday 11 March.

Paula Anderson Headteacher

Mrs Paula Anderson Headteacher www.bishopchallonerschool.com

“Pupils’ personal commitment to the school and the local community is very strong, they are beacons for the school in the community”. (ISI 2016) 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.

WH AT TO DO W HERE & WH E N WOOLWICH SINGERS

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE SPRING SEASON

A community choir. No audition required to join. The aim is to sing together and have fun! £2 per week, refreshments provided. Wednesdays 7-8.30pm. 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.

BY CLAIRE MCKINSON

Frankenstein

There can’t be many theatres, which can say, with confidence, that every evening there is a production taking place in the UK, or even as far afield as New York or Madrid, which first started out on their stage. But Greenwich Theatre has built a reputation as a place nurturing emerging talent and then giving them the space, opportunity and support to thrive. Until now, all productions have run from their main stage – a 400-seat theatre. January sees the launch of their first theatre studio programme, housed in their new 60-seat studio space. Immersive, intimate and versatile – the studio will be a future home to some of the country’s most exciting theatre-makers. Of course, it’s not only new, dynamic productions that need a stage to shine on, they also play host to many bigger productions before they hit the West End. This season, the theatre has announced the Greenwich debut of film and television star, Paul McGann, in Moira Buffini’s play Gabriel; a new ambitious production of Graham Greene’s Our Man In Havana; and rifco’s first visit to Greenwich with the unique Miss Meena And The Masala Queens. Children and families also stay firmly at the heart of the theatre, with half-term productions to suit every age. Here’s Greenwich Theatre doing what it does best - mixing the next generation of theatre goers with the next generation of outstanding theatre companies.

Highlights from the spring season: • An acclaimed staging of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein fusing storytelling, live music and puppetry (7 – 11 February) •The UK premiere of Lizzie – a rock musical which started life in America, arrives straight from the stages of Denmark (22 Feb – 12 March) • Summer Strallen’s Greenwich debut in London Classic Theatre’s revival of Terry Johnson’s hilarious farce, Hysteria (27-29 April) • One-night visits from acclaimed performers Dillie Keane (2 April), Andy Hamilton (14 May) and Susan Calman (26 June) There is a good reason, why, in 2016, the theatre was recognised as Small Business of the Year by The Wharf newspaper. The team are well-known for creating successful, exciting and surprising programmes, showcasing productions from all over the world (all with very little funding). And all this is on our doorsteps. Do as Artistic Director, James Haddrell would suggest; pick two shows from this season something you’re sure you’ll love and then try out something new. You won’t be disappointed. www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk

ONGOING GREENWICH DECORATIVE & ART, DRAMA, MUSIC, COURSES FINE ARTS SOCIETY 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.

Monthly lectures at King William Court, 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,

EVERY FRI LUNCHTIME CONCERT

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

TANGOWORKOUT

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.

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 SAT HORNIMAN FARMERS’ MARKET

A locally sourced, locally sold farmers’ market selling vegetables, meat, bread, flowers, hot food and much more in the glorious gardens. The Horniman Museum Gardens, 100 London Road, Forest Hill SE 23.

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 2ND & 4TH SATURDAY RARE - FARMERS MARKET 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.

EVERY WED LADIES BELLY DANCE GROUP

Fun and gentle exercise with well known dancer and performer Maria Louisa. Ladies of all ages, shapes and sizes are invited to join! Call Age Exchange for info on 07802 521210. 11.45am.The Bakehouse Theatre, 11 Blackheath Village SE3 9LA.

Quality locally sourced artisan food for residents and visitors to buy on the day. Traders range from bakers, greengrocers, cheesemongers, florists, fresh fruit with many more. Major Draper St, Royal Arsenal Riverside, SE18 6GD (Indoor), No.1 Street, Royal Arsenal Riverside, SE18 6FB (Outdoor).

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.

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

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.

BEATS IN THE BAR

Trinity Laban’s Jazz department’s regular series features guest artists alongside students in a relaxed atmosphere. 7.30pm. Free. Oliver’s Jazz Bar, 9 Nevada Street, Greenwich SE10 9JL.

BEN POOLE BAND & GUESTS UNTIL 21 MAY EXHIBITION OF BIBLICAL FANS

The Fan Museum begins the year with a sumptuous display of fans decorated with biblical subjects. The display of over eighty fans touches upon many of the bible’s significant episodes and includes interpretations of the Finding of Moses, Abraham sacrificing Isaac and The Visitation. Eighteenth century fans feature prominently within the display and show fan painters reinterpreting master paintings and widely circulated engravings by Rubens and others to fit the fan format. Adults: £4. Concs: £3, Children (age 7-16): £3. Fan Museum, 12 Crooms Hill, SE10 8ER

THURS 9 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.

Ben Poole is currently being described as the most exciting young blue guitarist to come out of the UK for a long time. 7.30-11pm. £10 in advance/£12 on the Door. www. thebeaverwoodclub.co.uk for details. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road Chislehurst BR7 6HF.

THURS 9, 16, 23 FEB, & 2 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 10 FEB THE RITE OF SPRING

An unmissable chance to hear one of the most influential musical works of the 20th century: Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring, written for the Ballet Russes. Conducted by Gerry Cornelius. 7.30pm. £12 (£7). www.blackheathhalls.com. 020 8463 0100. Great Hall, Blackheath Halls, 23 Lee Rd, Blackheath SE3 9RQ.

BEAVERWOOD CLUB NIGHT

DJ Dave Collins will be playing the best Chart - Club -Soul - RnB and so much more 8pm-1am (no admission after 10.00 pm). £8 members /£10 non-members. 30+, smart dress code. See www.thebeaverwoodclub. co.uk for details. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road,Chislehurst, BR7 6HF.

SAT 11 FEB LONDON CHILDREN’S BOOK SWAP

TUNNEL: THE ARCHAEOLOGY OF CROSSRAIL The most complete range of archaeological objects unearthed by the Crossrail project, Europe’s largest infrastructure project, will go on display alongside the story of this great feat of engineering in a major new exhibition. Friday 10 February – Sunday 3 September. Daily-10am-6pm. Free. Museum of London Docklands, No.1 Warehouse, West India Quay, London E14 4AL.

Families can bring along old books that you may have grown out of or grown bored with and you can swap them for something different. There will be other activities alongside the book swap. If you want to drop off books before the event email kayleigh@ rght.org.uk for details. Charlton House, Charlton Road, Charlton SE7 8RE.

GOLDSMITHS RAMBLING CLUB A 4-mile linear walk, from Enfield Lock to Chingford with magnificent views over London. Meet 11.10am Enfield Lock Station. Contact Mabs Gobey on 07812 063 396 for details. . www.goldsmithsramblers. strikingly.com. New members welcome.

SAT 11 – SUN 19 FEB SNOWDROP WINTER WALK

Over 60,000 snowdrop bulbs have been planted in the gardens at Hever Castle over the past six-years, now a heavenly carpet will provide a magical trail for visitors. Daily 10.30am-3pm (last entry). Castle & Gardens Adult £16.90, Child (5-15) £9.50. Gardens only Adult £14.20, Child £9. 01732 861710. www. hevercastle.co.uk. Hever Castle & Gardens, Hever, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG.

JOIN THE ACADEMY PERFORMING ARTS FAMILY With classes in Dance, Drama and Music tuition, this friendly performing arts school has built a reputation for exam excellence and value for money and is one of the leading providers of performing arts based education in the Royal Borough of Greenwich. Academy Performing Arts is based in the former Royal Military Academy building within the Royal Arsenal Riverside development. We have an exceptionally dedicated and caring teaching faculty whose sole aim is to ensure that every student’s full potential has been reached in a productive, positive, and, above all, enjoyable manner. Academy provides an extensive weekly Performing Arts programme for students of all ages and abilities, offering opportunities of working towards professionally recognised qualifications, including: ISTD Ballet and Tap, RAD Ballet, Trinity Drama and Musical Theatre, ABRSM Music Examinations and Rock School Jazz Dance. Our examination results have been outstanding across the board, with an ever-increasing number of ‘Distinctions’ building year by year.

MON 13 – FRI 17 FEB SMASHFESTUK

The scariest and most spectacular fest yet! Erupting February half term, a packed programme of events and activities for all ages. Unbeknownst to Deptford a super-volcano is bubbling under Lewisham and things are going to get hot. SMASHfestUK explores how to survive when the world explodes and is smothered in ash. Events will take place at both the Albany and Deptford Lounge.Line-up to be announced, 020 8692 4446. www.thealbany.org.uk for more info. The Albany. Douglas Way. Deptford SE8 4AG.

Our Programme includes (but is not limited to): Ballet, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Street / Hip Hop, Drama, Musical Theatre and Contemporary. 1-2-1 Music tuition for Clarinet, Drums, Flute, Guitar, Saxophone, Piano, Violin and Vocal Technique. B40 Youth Dance Company APADC Academy Performing Arts Dance Company - Elite Competition Team For more information on our classes, please email academyinfo@gll.org or check out our website www.better.org.uk/academy Our Performing Arts programme is now expanding into local Better centres including The Greenwich Centre, Eltham Leisure Centre and libraries. For more information contact us at performingarts@gll.org All new students can come and try a class for free, we call it a taster session. To book your free taster session email performingarts@gll.org.

MON 13 – SAT 18 FEB STEAMFEST

This half term Cutty Sark will be holding its first ever STEAM event which stands for science, technology, engineering, art and maths. The week-long activities will provide creative opportunities for families to learn together about the science of sailing ships, all whilst visiting one of the finest tall ships in the world. Open 10am-5pm. Adults £13.50 (£11.50) Children 5-15 £7 & family tickets available. Cutty Sark, King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9HT.

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W H AT TO DO W HERE & WH E N

THE ROYAL OPERA HOUSE COMES TO BLACKHEATH HALLS A fantastic opportunity for local residents to hear a recital by the rising international stars of the Royal Opera House in the intimate setting of the 150 seater Recital Room. The Jette Parker Young Artists Programme is designed to support the artistic development of talented singers at the beginning of their careers.

TEA DANCE

Come and enjoy a magical afternoon swirling around the dance floor of our beautiful Great Hall to a dance event run by the fantastic Mr Wondeful Dancing. 1PM. £5. www.blackheathhalls.com. Blackheath Halls 23 Lee Road London SE3 9RQ.

SUN 5 MAR ERIC KNOWLES “WHAT’S IT’S WORTH”

‘Antique’s Roadshow’ presenter Eric Knowles values your family heirlooms as well as giving an entertaining talk about the business he has been involved with for over 30 years. 2.30pm. £18. www.blackheathhalls. com. Great Hall, Blackheath Halls 23 Lee Road London SE3 9RQ.

The first of the recitals at Blackheath Halls is Wednesday 15 February at 7.30pm with sopranos Emily Edmonds (mezzo-soprano) and Francesca Chiejina (soprano).

Explore the wow-world of colours with this curious little owl that is determined to stay awake… Story telling with puppetry and music. Suitable for everyone over the age of 2yrs. 12pm & 2pm. £13.50 (£11) Children £8.50. www. greenwichtheatre.org.uk. 020 8858 7755. Greenwich Theatre, Crooms Hill, Greenwich SE10 8ES.

MAKING LOVE IN THE QUEEN’S HOUSE

Treat your loved one to a Prosecco Afternoon Tea in the elegant surroundings of the Queen’s House. Enjoy a selection of delicious delicacies whilst experts reveal love stories of the royalty that once lived there. 2-4.30pm. Adult £25. 020 8858 4422. www.rmg.co.uk. The Queens House, Romney Rd, Greenwich, London SE10 9NF

EMMA HAMILTON: SEDUCTION LATE

Delve into Emma’s opulent world and celebrate Valentine’s Day in style with this event co-curated by the Georgian Dining Academy. Be inspired by heartfelt love letters from Admiral Lord Nelson to Emma, learn a traditional courting dance, or make a fabulous mask to beguile a stranger. Emma Hamilton: Seduction and Celebrity will also be available to view after hours. 6.30-10pm. Adult £15, Members £12, 18 yrs +. Includes exhibition

THE BLACK HEATHER CLUB

admission. 020 8858 4422. www.rmg.co.uk. National Maritime Museum, Park Row, Greenwich, London SE10 9NF.

AN EVENING WITH THE STARS

Enjoy a starry-eyed evening at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, including a planetarium show about the romantic sights the night sky has to offer, a chance to stargaze through the 18-tonne Victorian telescope, and a glass of bubbly whilst standing on the historic Greenwich Meridian. 5.25 – 7.25pm & 6.45-8.45pm. Adults £30 (£28). Advance booking essential. www.rmg.co.uk.

WED 15 FEB SPECTACULAR SCIENCE SHOW

If you think science is boring, think again; this is science like you have never seen before! TV astronomer and author Mark Thompson will enthrall with this brand new show. Suitable for a family audience. 11am & 3pm. £13.50 (£11) Child £8.50. www.greenwichtheatre. org.uk. 020 8858 7755. Greenwich Theatre, Crooms Hill, Greenwich SE10 8ES.

WED 15 – SAT 18 FEB THEATRE: THE MEMORY OF WALTER

The Alexandra Players in ‘The Memory of Walter’ by Shelagh Stephenson. 8pm (doors 7.30pm) £9 (£8). 07867 627 987. Alexandra Hall, Bramshot Ave, Charlton SE7.

Let our lecturer Alexandra Epps tell you about the scandal, the tribulations and finally the triumph of John Singer Sargent, the favourite portrait artist of rich Edwardians. Refreshments: 2 for 2.30pm. Visitors still only £7 on the door. www.artsinblackheath.org.uk. St Mary’s Church Hall, Cresswell Park, Blackheath SE3 9RD.

LIMEHOUSE LIZZIE

Medical Microscopy – talk on the subject. Speaker tba. 7.45pm. Visitors welcome with a donation of 33. Mycenae House, 90 Mycenae Road SE3 7SE.

The Jette Parker Young Artists Programme is generously supported by Oak Foundation

THURS 23 FEB BLACKHEATH DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY

A jam of music and dance from different disciplines, featuring the London Soundpainting Orchestra, Nik Bartsch and other special guests alongside Trinity Laban staff and students. 7pm. £12 (£8). www.blackheathhalls.com. 020 8463 0100. Great Hall, Blackheath Halls, 23 Lee Rd, Blackheath SE3 9RQ.

FRI 17 FEB BLACKHEATH SCIENTIFIC SOCIETY

Tickets £7, £5 (concessions).

TUES 14 FEB WOW! SAID THE OWL

A thrilling tale of magic, heroism, love and betrayal adapted from the novel Arthur: High King of Britain by Michael Morpurgo. Suitable for 7 years+. 2pm & 5pm. £13.50 (£11) Child £8.50. www.greenwichtheatre. org.uk. 020 8858 7755. Greenwich Theatre, Crooms Hill, Greenwich SE10 8ES.

The World’s number one tribute to Thin Lizzie paying homage to the kings of classic rock. 7.30-11pm. £10 in advance/£12 on the Door. www.thebeaverwoodclub. co.uk for details. The Beaverwood, Beaverwood Road Chislehurst BR7 6HF.

Each recital is followed by a Q&A session with the artists.

To book call box office on 020 8463 0100 or visit www.blackheathhalls.com

THURS 16 FEB KING AUTHUR

FRI 17 – SUN 19 FEB DON’T DRIBBLE ON THE DRAGON

Based on the best selling book by Steve Lee, this children’s show about a secret dragon will enthrall. Suitable for 2 years +. Fri 3pm, Sat & Sun 11.30am & 2.30pm. £16 (£13.50) Child £11. www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk. 020 8858 7755. Greenwich Theatre, Crooms Hill, Greenwich SE10 8ES.

SUN 19 FEB FAMILY CIRCUS WORKSHOP

Tumble, balance and spin on a hairpin. Learn circus skills in partnership with your child. Brilliant and bonding! 12noon & 2.30pm. £16 per pair. Ages 3+. www. thealbany.org.uk for more info. The Albany. Douglas Way. Deptford SE8 4AG.

TUES 21 FEB GREENWICH INDUSTRIAL HISTORY

Talk by Andrew Turner on Redpath Brown & Co. 7.30pm. The Old Bakehouse, (rear of Age Exchange) Bennett Park, Blackheath Village SE3.

WED 22 FEB ARCHITECTURE LECTURE

Blackheath Halls: Friends Annual Richard Gierson Lecture. Peter Barber (2016 NLA Building of the Year Winner – for his Holmes Road Studios for homeless people) will speak on: The Street…who owns the city? 8pm. £12, £10 seniors & £6 students. www. blackheathhalls.com. 020 8463 0100. Blackheath Halls, 23 Lee Road London SE3 9RQ.

GIANT ROBOT ANIMALS INVADE Where can you meet a robotic rhino, a squid with 18-foot tentacles and a huge housefly with a vacuum cleaner for a mouth? The Robot Zoo houses largerthan-life-size robot animals made from familiar machine parts and gadgets, in an exciting hands-on family exhibition revealing some of nature’s most amazing adaptations. Through interactive games and challenges, The Robot Zoo reveals how a chameleon changes colour, what makes grasshoppers leap so high, and exactly why a platypus looks so strange. Using pistons for muscles, pipes instead of intestines, and computerised ‘brains’, the robot animals show how their real life counterparts see, hear, hunt, hide and move. Saturday 11 February – Sunday 29 Ooctober. There will also be a special programme of events linked to the exhibition throughout the year www.norniman.ac.uk. 10.30am-5.30pm. Child £4.40; Adult £7.70: Family (2 adults, 2 children) £18.70. The Horniman Museum & Gardens, 100 London Road, Forest Hill SE23 3PQ.

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

DON’T MISS IGGLEPIGGLE AND FRIENDS LIVE IN BLACKHEATH! The world’s only In the Night Garden Live Showdome is coming to Blackheath this May for two weeks only! Step into the magical world of In the Night Garden and see Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy and Makka Pakka brought to life with beautiful costumes and puppets. Panoramic projections and enchanting music make it feel like you’re actually in the Night Garden! In the Night Garden Live takes place in its own purpose-built family-friendly showdome. With just 13 rows of seats, you’ll be close to the action wherever you sit and everyone gets a great view!

In the Night Garden Live is cleverly designed to entertain even the youngest of children. “Parents tell us that children as young as a few months old engage with the live show,” says Andrew Collier, Creative Director of Minor Entertainment, “and the looks on their faces are absolutely amazing.” There are two shows to choose from and each one lasts just under an hour – will you catch the Ninky Nonk or the Pinky Ponk? From 25 May to 10 June. Watch the trailer and book online at nightgardenlive.com 141 Greenwich High Road SE10 8QY

THURS 23 – SUN 27 FEB CLASSIC CAR SHOW

SUN 26 FEB THE COLOUR OF ME

FRI 24 FEB BEAVERWOOD CLUB NIGHT

CHORAL EVENSONG

Choral evensong is a sung service at St Alfege Church on the last Sunday of every month (excluding August). This year we are introducing a series of short talks and recitals on individual poets or poems to accompany the beauty of language and music in ‘cathedral style’ choral evensong according to the Book of Common 6.30pm. St Alfege Church, Greenwich Church Street, Greenwich SE10 9BJ.

SAT 25 FEB GOLDSMITHS RAMBLING CLUB

ART LISTINGS GREENWICH PRINT MAKERS

Relive the golden years of car motoring with The London Classic Car Show 2017 at ExCeL London, and enjoy complimentary access to a new co-located show, Historic Motorsport International. www.lccs.seetickets.com. Thurs 3pm-9:30pm,  Fri & Sat 10am-6pm,    Sun 10am-5pm. Adult £24, Child (6-16) £18.

A 6.5-mile flat linear walk, from Leytonstone to Wanstead Flats and park. Meet 11.10am Enfield Lock Station. Contact Vernon Brown on 0208 290 6236 for details. www.goldsmithsramblers.strikingly.com. New members welcome.

Experience the beautiful rainbow of emotions that lives inside each and every one of us. With live music and projection this interactive dance theatre performance promises to delight, tickle and inspire young audiences. 1pm & 3pm. £7/ £24 family. Ages 3+. www.thealbany.org.uk for more info. The Albany. Douglas Way. Deptford SE8 4AG.

Featured artists: Until 19 Feb Nikki Braunton, 21 Feb – 12 Mar Angela Brookes. 020 8858 1569. Greenwich Printmakers, 1a Greenwich Market, London SE10 9HZ.

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ME RID IA N ART & DESIGN

Successful music and film company, Cadiz Music, have opened a new art gallery, as well as a fabulous up-cycled fashion pop-up shop by innovative eco-fashion pioneer, Laura Zabo.

Gallery owner, Richard England states that this area by Deptford Creek is going through an exciting transition - with The Laban Centre on one side and design and creative companies popping up all over the place, the Creekside is becoming quite a cultural hub in a great location. Curator, Tadeus Blower states that the timing to open a gallery is perfect: “We have projects on the horizon that are not exclusively fine art but nurture crossovers between cultures and creative worlds; with musicians, film-makers, performers, graphic designers and artists deftly stepping out of their pigeon holes.” Upcoming exhibitions at Cadiz Gallery include “Norman Watt-Roy” a series of life-size paintings of the legendary Blockheads/Wilko Johnson bass player, by Tadeus Blower. Norman Watt-Roy, generally regarded as the greatest living bass player in the world today. His own unique style first came to attention in Ian Dury and the Blockheads with “Hit Me with Your Rhythm Stick”, Sex and Drugs & Rock’n’ Roll; Frankie Goes To Hollywood’s “Two Tribes” and “Relax”, plus a lot of The Clash albums when

Paul Simonon didn’t turn up. Nick Cave, Paul McCartney, Madness, the list goes on. In recent years Norman has played in the Wilko Johnson Band and recorded with Roger Daltrey and The Blockheads…. Eco-designer Laura Zabo creates a huge range of stunning belts, jewellery, guitar straps, dog leads and furniture made from up-cycled bicycle tyres and inner tubes. All her products are 100% vegan, 100% eco-friendly and 100% sustainable, without skimping on style. Zabo’s unique, high-quality products were a great success at the London markets, VegFest at Olympia and the Animal Aid Fayre and were recently featured in the Evening Standard. Having taken the world by storm, she now opens an exclusive pop-up shop within the Cadiz Gallery and brings the New Year in with spectacular style! Cadiz Gallery 13 Harmony Place, London SE8 3FE www.cadizgallery.co.uk www.laurazabo.com

Norman Watt-Roy

New Art Gallery

Creekside Open 2017 - Call For Entry

Thames-Side Print Studio

Creekside Open 2017 selected by Jordan Baseman and Alison Wilding

Looking ahead to spring? Why not learn a new skill and catch the print bug?

A.P.T is pleased to announce that the Creekside Open 2017 is now open for submissions. Visual artists who live and work in the UK are invited to enter work (in all media) that has been made since May 2015. Work for two exhibitions, held at the A.P.T Gallery in London, will be independently selected from one anonymous submission. Jordan Baseman will select the first exhibition to be shown from 4 to 28 May 2017 and Alison Wilding will select the second exhibition which will be shown from 8 June to 2 July 2017. Six prizes of £500 each will be awarded by the selectors. You can apply for the CREEKSIDE OPEN 2017 online at www.creeksideopen.org The closing date for submitted work is Tuesday 28 February 2017. The Art in Perpetuity Trust set up the CREEKSIDE OPEN in 2005 as a biennial visual arts open competition and it has grown in recognition and stature to become one of the UK’s foremost open competitions for visual artists.

Here at our spacious and buzzy printmaking studio, based on the Thames in SE18, we’ve got courses to suit everybody including screenprinting, etching, lithography, textiles, linocut and digital. Complete a course and you can join us as an open access member with technical support on hand. For more experienced printmakers, we offer 24/7 access with a key. Drop us a line or call to arrange a visit but why not take a tour with our new walk through video at: thames-sideprintstudio.co.uk Thames-Side Print Studio Thames-Side Studios Unit 4 Harrington Way SE18 5NR enquiries@thames-sideprintstudio.co.uk Tel: 020 8316 5522

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07702 983 627 020 8690 0569

ENGLISH TUITION Key stage 2 up to G.C.S.E

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ME R IDIA N PRO PERT Y

Contemporary new Peckham development Wood’s Road – the ideal location for First Time Buyers Wood’s Road is a modern development located close to the heart of Peckham, London’s latest Zone 2 property hotspot. This chic development comprises one, two and three bedroom apartments, with almost all homes available on the popular London Help to Buy scheme. Perfect for young professionals looking to live near Peckham’s vibrant cultural scene, residents can enjoy leisurely brunches at the ever-popular Blackbird Bakery, or explore the exciting range of independent restaurants that the area has to offer. Since launching last year, Wood’s Road has proved hugely popular with first time buyers looking to get their feet on the property ladder in this vibrant corner of south east London. The development is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Queen’s Road and benefits from views over leafy Cossall Park, which creates a peaceful vibe. As one of the few new build developments in Peckham, the interiors have been completed to a very high specification, with state of the art kitchens and bathrooms. Most homes at Wood’s Road benefit from their own secluded outside space, and all properties have access to the communal landscaped gardens. A selection of the higher level properties will also enjoy breath-taking views of the City of London, with Canary Wharf, the O2 and The Shard visible on the horizon.

Wood’s Road is a short walk from Queens Road Peckham station where trains to London Bridge take just ten minutes – making it an ideal location for those working in the City. Prices start from £455,000 and the development provides a unique opportunity to purchase a home in Zone 2 on the government-backed Help to Buy London scheme. The London scheme enables buyers to secure their new home with just a 5% deposit and 40% equity loan, and has proven very popular with buyers at Wood’s Road. A selection of three bedroom homes have now been released at £599,995, falling within the Help to Buy London

price bracket, presenting a rare opportunity to purchase a home of this size in such a central and sought-after location. The development has already proved to be hugely popular, with all the two bedroom properties now reserved. To find out more, call us on 020 3437 1273 or visit www.crestnicholson.com/woodsroad. The development, Wood’s Road, is a joint venture between Kitewood and Crest Nicholson, who are both known for the quality and style of their developments.

First-time buyers - Help to Buy Being a first-time buyer usually means forking out rent, saving for a deposit and playing catch-up with ever-rising house prices all at the same time. When Help to Buy was launched by the Government back in 2013, there were two parts to the scheme, Equity Loan and Mortgage Guarantee. As planned, the latter part (whereby the Government offered a guarantee to banks and building societies of up to 15% of the property price to encourage them to lend larger loans) was scrapped at the end of 2016. The remaining part of Help to Buy, the Equity Loan requires a minimum 5% deposit of the property value with the Government offering an interest-free loan of a further 20%. The remaining 75% is covered by a standard mortgage. Help to Buy London, which launched in February 2016, is an extension of the Help to Buy Equity Loan. It’s specifically aimed at people wanting to buy in London and Greater London. For a 5% deposit, the scheme offers the same 5-year interest-free loan against qualifying new-build homes. The difference with Help to Buy London is that the loan is worth up to 40% of the value of a home, opposed to the maximum 20% under the wider scheme, reflecting house prices. The Help to Buy Equity Loan is only available on new-build properties in England worth up to £600,000. The scheme will remain open until 2020.