Meridian Magazine February 2014 by Meridian Magazine

50,000 COPIES DELIVERED EVERY MONTH SINCE 1996

FEBRUARY 2014

Your local magazine

Weddings Special Vintage never dates, make a day to remember

Spring

Looking pale & Interesting

Education 22page supplement our most comprehensive HOMES

FOOD

BEAUTY

FASHION

INTERIORS

SHOPPING

EDUCATION

2 | www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

CONTENTS FEBRUARY 2014 50,000 COPIES DELIVERED EVERY MONTH SINCE 1996

FEBRUARY 2014

Your local magazine

Weddings Special Vintage never dates, make a day to remember

Spring

FOOD

BEAUTY

FASHION

17 - 20 WEDDING SPECIAL F

INTERIORS

SHOPPING

EDUCATION

COVER: Model Photo Sarah Gawler

0 0,00 c

Spring shades for the home Big Ideas for a small space Spruce up your home

Looking pale & Interesting

most comprehensive F

Win dinner for four at the carvery at Ferrari’s

8 - 12 INTERIORS

Education 22page supplement our HOMES

4 LOCAL NEWS

opies

DISTRIBUTOR : The Distribution Company 020 8983 9944

Vintage style never dates Wedding Photography – a day to remember Wedding snippets – useful info

21 FASHION

Fashion on the sweet side

ered Delriyvmonth! eve

23 ASK THE EXPERT

Winter health & beauty advice Win a joint membership at Bannatynes

25 - 48 EDUCATION SUPPLEMENT

Local Schools’ round-up Education News Parenting News – Lets get physical Little Stargazers Astronomy Club

51 FOOD & DRINK

Meridian magazine is published monthly with a genuine distribution of 50,000 to selected residential properties and businesses within the borough of Greenwich and in Blackheath, Westcombe Park, Charlton, Eltham, Lee, Docklands, Canary Wharf, Bromley, Chislehurst, New Eltham, Hither Green and Kidbrooke. 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.

Food News Win a meal for two at Aqua Bar & Grill

52 – 54 ART IN THE AREA

Four more galleries open their doors New Exhibitions – what’s on and where

55 - 59 EVENTS & LISTINGS

This months listings including: Greenwich Theatre’s ‘On Stage’ Lullingstone Park Golf Course

62 PROPERTY

Luxury waterside living

Meridian Line Publishing Ltd 8 The Village, Charlton SE7 8UD Tel: 020 8319 0555 Fax : 020 8319 4555 Email : enquiries@meridian-magazine.co.uk Publisher: Joy Johnston Editor : Valerie Breese Art & Production Director : Paul McPherson Display Sales: Cheryl Voller, Emma Forbes Classified Sales : Laurie Monshall Contributors : Claire Allen, Sarah Gawler, James Haddrell Printing : Polestar, www.polestar-group.com Distribution : The Distribution Company

w w w. m e r i d i a n - m a g a z i n e . c o . u k facebook.com/meridianmagazine

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local N E W S High quality hotel and conference facility planned

A landmark development to bring a 4* boutique hotel to the town centre at the Grade II listed former Bromley Town Hall is being planned by a development partner. The Council has entered into a conditional agreement to grant a long lease of the prominent town centre site to the Cathedral Group PLC to provide a high quality hotel, wedding and conference facility with a restaurant. Many original features will be restored and the development will enhance the building’s historic setting. Planning and listed building consent applications are expected later this year. ‘We are committed to ensuring that Bromley maintains its competitive position, building on our rich heritage, as well as stimulating new and quality developments.The Town Hall site is a fantastic opportunity to provide the town with a high-class facility, enhancing Bromley’s offer to visitors, shoppers and residents. This is an exciting time for the town centre with the Bromley South Central cinema development and Bromley North Village improvements currently underway, with more to come’, said Councillor Stephen Carr, Leader of the Council.

Design a Bridge To celebrate its 120th birthday this year, Tower Bridge, the most famous bridge in the world, has launched an exciting new national competition for children, offering them the opportunity to design the second most famous bridge in the world!    Aspiring young artists, designers and engineers are being invited to draw their very own version of the iconic bridge, and the overall winner will see their masterpiece transformed into an amazing ‘real-life’ 3D model for public display in the Tower Bridge Exhibition. Entry forms and full terms & conditions can be downloaded from the Tower Bridge website (www.towerbridge.org.uk) closing date for entries is 14 March. Three age categories are available: category 1 is for entrants aged 6-8, category 2 is for ages 9-11 and category 3 is for ages 12-14. All designs must be shown in 2D, on an A4 flat piece of paper.

Angels in SE10

Amazing

Acclaimed actor and EastEnders star, Larry Lamb, join forces with Chief Executive Brendan McCarthy for the launch of the ORNC Angels at the Old Royal Naval College. As a charity, the ORNC needs donations from individuals; trusts and companies to ensure it can continue to conserve the magnificent Grade 1 listed buildings and open them to the public. Conservation of the 72 Victorian lanterns, which illuminate the site, is already underway, and in the future the ORNC is planning to do work on the remarkable Victorian Skittle Alley and the Jacobean Undercroft.

Proceeds from Santa’s grotto in the Broadway Shopping Centre in Bexleyheath snowballed to a record £35,000 in aid of the much loved Greenwich and Bexley Community Hospice. The hospice has been hosting the glistening grotto at Broadway Shopping Centre for the past four years and the total raised has gradually increased each December. Peter Sedge, Broadway Shopping Centre Manager, said: ‘we were all bowled over when we heard the final figure. The whole team at the shopping centre is delighted at what Santa’s stay with us has achieved for such a worthwhile cause as our local hospice.’

The Angels scheme offers special benefits to its members including an exciting programme of exclusive talks, lectures, performances and behindthe-scenes conservation tours, discounts in the shop and at the Old Brewery, two for one tickets on tours, some of which offer special access to areas of the site not normally open to the general public, and seats in the special Admiral’s box for concerts in the Chapel. Membership starts from as little as £3 a month. All those who join by the 31 March will also have the additional opportunity to join a private guided tour of the Admiral’s House, part of the oldest building on site, which is not normally open to the public. The ORNC is fortunate to be one of a number of UK heritage attractions to have been selected for Catalyst Funding, which means that any funds raised (up to £1M) can be match funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and DCMS until 2016.

Left to right; Charlie Cowcher, Christine Barton, Retail Liaison Co-ordinator for Broadway Shopping Centre and Sarah O’Halloran, Fundraising Manager for Greenwich and Bexley Community Hospice.

For further information on the Angels programme and how to sign up visit: www.ornc.org/angels

Bannatynes Comp

Entries can be posted to Design a Bridge Competition, Tower Bridge Exhibition, Tower Bridge Road, London, SE1 2UP or emailed to competitions@towerbridge.org.uk.

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©Tower Bridge

february 2014

For those that love lazy Sundays, Ferrari’s of Bromley have introduced their Sunday Carvery, with a choice of three freshly cooked premium meats served with a great selection of vegetables and all the trimmings to tempt you away from your kitchen. One lucky reader can win a prize of a table of four at the carvery plus a bottle of house wine. Simply send your name, address and daytime telephone number to Meridian magazine (Ferraris), 8 The Village, Charlton, SE7 8UD. Or email your details to competition@meridianmagazine.co.uk by 28 February.

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Greenwich Square C

urrently undergoing one of the most ambitious regeneration programmes in Europe, the ever popular Royal Borough of Greenwich is being transformed on a significant scale. Now, with improved transport links and the shortly arriving Crossrail, Greenwich is attracting even more investment and creating better opportunities for residents. East Greenwich, located just 10 minutes from central Greenwich, is the latest area to benefit from this uplift with major regeneration scheme, Greenwich Square, creating an exciting new residential address and helping to revive the community. With support from the Mayor of London, this ÂŁ225m regeneration scheme is set to transform the former Greenwich District Hospital site into one of the most desirable and exciting postcodes in London. Providing 645 stunning new homes, over half of which will be affordable, Greenwich Square will also provide long-awaited communal facilities for both new and existing residents. This February, Greenwich Square will launch a new and special housing option for the area. A collection of 29 maisonettes, priced from ÂŁ545,000, will introduce a truly unique living option for this area, providing more space for those who have outgrown apartment living, but without the price-tags that usually accompany larger traditional houses. Spread over two levels, each three-bed home features a beautiful Italian kitchen and bright, open-plan living spaces. Each also comes complete with its own private garden or terrace, providing relaxing outside space for homeowners.

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Property Feature

A major regeneration Scheme helping to revive the community The buyers of these contemporary maisonettes will also enjoy use of the beautifully landscaped public square, which will provide a vibrant hub of cafes, restaurants and shops, as well as new communal facilities, which include a new gymnasium, aquatic centre, library and GP practice. Andy Portlock, director at Hadley Mace, the joint venture behind the project, comments: ‘These maisonettes cater for a significant gap in the local market – those looking to upsize but want to keep the City lifestyle. We anticipate that the homes are going to be hugely popular as they are suited to such a wide range of buyers, from young couples to families. Greenwich Square will now give buyers even more choice when it comes to finding their dream property. We’re excited to see the site develop even further, as Greenwich Square is already becoming a highly sought-after residential address and established destination for the local community.’ The development will provide a range of living choices, ranging from apartments with balconies, to maisonettes and terraced family-focused homes with terraces and landscaped gardens; all of which will be unveiled over a five year period in several phases. Launching last year, the first phase of one, two and three bedroom apartments have now almost completely sold out. Greenwich Square is being delivered by Hadley Mace, a joint venture between Hadley Property Group, renowned for building high end developments, including the stunning Tower View development at London’s St Katharine Docks, and Mace, the company behind The Shard as well as an investor in regeneration and property.

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Interiors

Spring... Looking pale and interesting The home interiors industry follows the fashion world in as far as direction for colour, texture and pattern. It’s a relationship as old as fashion itself. As such, each year, when Pantone sits down to forecast the colour direction for a coming year, it first tackles fashion, following that report with one that details what we can expect in furniture, paint, accessories and more for the coming year. In looking to spring 2014, the colour gurus at Pantone are seeing designers taking a modern twist on traditional styling. The trend will be emphasized by the pairing of soft pastels with vivid brights to create a colorful equilibrium and is inspired by a mixture of blooming flowers and travels abroad. The Predictions On the one end we have the pastels that Pantone notes can be creatively combined with any other color in the spectrum simply because we are so accustomed to seeing them as nature’s background. There is Placid Blue: intended to induce a sense of peaceful calmness akin to a picture-perfect, tranquil and reassuring sky; Violet Tulip, a more romantic, vintage purple that evokes wistful nostalgia; and Hemlock, a summery, ornamental green reminiscent of the verdant shade of springtime foliage.

Beverley Morris

Geoff Cohen

Centering the prediction is Sand: a lightly toasted neutral that conjures images of the beach and the carefree days of summer, and Paloma: intended to serve as a quintessential neutral that is interesting enough to be used alone or combined with any other colour in the season’s forecast for a touch of sophisticated poise. Moving into the brighter area, there is Cayenne, a highpitched red that will add a dash of spicy heat to neutrals; Freesia, a tropical, floral-inspired yellow that aims to illuminate collections; and Celosia Orange, an optimistic and spontaneous hue. Completing the palette is a pair of bold shades intended as the perfect companions to their pastel cousins. Radiant Orchid is a bold counterpart to Violet Tulip, whereas

Angela Stanton

Dazzling Blue is the polar opposite to Placid Blue. The strong, vibrant colours not only pair well with the pastels but work well across the palette, adding confidence and vivacity when mixed with other bold colours. The idea behind this and other Pantone palettes is to show designers, and consumers as well, examples of how seemingly different colours can make fashionable connections and create unexpected, memorable statements. For example, in working within this season’s predicted palette, the colour experts suggest pairing the vibrant and firey Celosia Orange with the quiet, thoughtful Violet Tulip for a presentation reminiscent of the setting summer sun. After all, much like an outfit, every room needs a dash of colour!

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S O L I C I TO R S Shirley O’Neil

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Elegant and eminently wearable, Devernoisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Spring 2014 collection brings genuine French style and cosmopolitan chic to your doorstep in Blackheath Village. Drop by today and experience something very diďŹ&#x20AC;erent.

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Interiors

Big ideas

for a small space You may think that adding a cloakroom to your home may not be possible, nevertheless the effort to create this additional small but very practical space is more than justified. Creating a cloakroom suite is becoming an increasingly popular way to add another room with a toilet and basin as more people are realising just how useful this can be, especially if you live in a busy household. If planned wel, a cloakroom suite can be installed in the most compact of spaces and you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need lots of space to be able to install a toilet and basin as there are a fantastic variety of space-saving products available which are specifically designed for mini spaces. Cloakroom suites with bathroom furniture are great for creating a very modern look and will provide you with somewhere to store any toiletries out of sight so you have a neat, organised space. The Milano 400mm vanity units are perfect for a cloakroom suite as they feature a neat, slim-line design to help maximise space, and are available in a white or walnut finish. A cloakroom suite will usually be the smallest room in your house so opt for a toilet and basin, which has been specifically designed for small spaces ranging from the

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close-coupled style to wall-hung toilets. Make sure you opt for one with a shorter projection than standard such as the Vitra S50 compact toilet, which has a projection of just 600mm, perfect for creating more floor space. A wall-hung toilet is great for providing a very modern look to a cloakroom suite and will make cleaning the floor much easier in a small space. A cloakroom can be extended if space allows to include a shower; a cloakroom can even be turned into a wet room if you would benefit from an extra shower but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the space for a cubicle. The final details will help to enhance the overall look and feel of your cloakroom suite, the right lighting will make the room feel bigger and a heated towel rail is the perfect size for a cloakroom suite and will make the space feel warm and inviting.

You’re invited to the launch of our new Amtico showroom on Saturday 1st March and enjoy a glass of sparkling wine while viewing the new Amtico Signature range. On the day we will be selling Amtico Signature for the amazing price of £59.99m2 instead of £70.00m2. Order two separate rooms in Amtico Signature and get the smallest room ﬁtted free, only on orders placed on the day. T&C apply.

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk | 11

Time to spruce up your home your front door. It sounds simple We’re told we shouldn’t judge a book by its 1.butPaint this is the first thing that people are cover, but we do judge a home by its exterior. going to look at. Strong, bright colours in full gloss are popular at the moment but if you haven’t got the nerve, black is always a safe bet, or a flat, dark plum colour such as Pelt, by Farrow & Ball. For a contemporary look, matt, muted and washed-out colours are favoured in smart London streets. 2. Invest in quality door furniture. Try to choose furniture in keeping with your property; heavy Victoriana doorknockers and letterboxes will look out of place unless your home is Victorian. For a more contemporary look go for brushed aluminium or chrome. 3. Lighting placed either side of the front door to add symmetry, or a lantern in a portico entrance. Don’t be afraid to try out lights in situ before you commit; if they’re too big or too ornate they can look brash. 4. The approach to the front door should be swept of leaves, and free from rubbish. Cars, bicycles, horse boxes must be neatly parked. Porches can give an air of distinction but can become dumping grounds for clutter. 5. Numbering or naming a house can easily go wrong. There’s a trend for shiny oversized chrome numerals or stencilled numbers. For houses with fanlights have the number or name acid-etched into the glass.

A property’s outer appearance, its kerb appeal, is often the deal maker (or breaker) when it comes to buying a home. It takes potential buyers no more than eight seconds to decide whether or not they like a house. Improving the appearance of a property doesn’t necessarily have to be an expensive project but there are a few rules. No DIY is better than bad DIY. Badly painted front doors with drips running down them or dirty looking houses are a no-no. Buyers look for evidence that the house has been well maintained. Any sign that they will need to spend time or money may put them off. Rotten window frames and cracked plasterwork, for example, present an obvious bartering tool.

Even if you are not in the market to sell, after the wettest winter on record most homes are looking a little worst for wear and in need of a little TLC.

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Interiors

6. Windows look sad when they are dirty, so make sure yours are cleaned regularly. Rotten window frames are also unacceptable and if you’re putting in new ones, make sure they are appropriate with the design of the rest of the house. 7. However small the space is, add some greenery. Landscaped beds with colourful planting and box hedges set off the front of a house; or for smaller spaces, such as either side of the front door, planters with box topiary. 8. Some green is unwelcome. After the recent deluge steps and pathways can be green and slippery. Any propriety stone cleaner can make light work of this problem. 9. Spruce up a tired façade by repainting, re-pointing, or rendering over ugly brickwork. Don’t go too crazy: paint colours should be in keeping with the period of the house (and the ones either side, if you live on a street). This doesn’t mean to say that they have to be the same colour (unless you are in a heritage area). 10. Don’t let the house next door ruin your kerb appeal. If your neighbours have rubbish outside their house, suggest you remove it, rather than whinging about it and if you’re trimming your hedge, ask if you can do theirs while you’re at it.

Your local design & build company

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Visit our showroom at: 3 Church Road, Farnborough, Kent BR6 7DB Open Tuesday & Friday 9.30am to 3pm; Saturday 9.30am to 1pm. All other times by appointment

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We manufacture and install Timber Windows & Doors, specialising in box frames & sashes, casement windows and doors / frames. These can be made in both modern or traditional styles, double glazed to comply with current building regulations, or single glazed for renovation projects. Please contact us for a non obligation quote.

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Free estimates and a guaranteed personal service References and recommendations available on request

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The great thing about vintage is it never dates!

Interiors

But the devil is in the detail Vintage weddings never go out of fashion. Whether it’s vintage because of reception details, a vintage wedding dress or because of the colours and flowers and theme that you choose, you can’t go wrong. More couples want to put their own individual style to their wedding and many are choosing the 50s, 60s, 70s even the 80s as a guide for their vintage wedding. Be sure that the vintage really suits your personality: vintage is not for everyone. It’s important to feel at ease in this back in time environment. The most important thing to know about creating a traditional wedding is to make sure you do not overdo it. Create a common thread: make sure you have a wedding theme with details that link the different moments of the wedding. Use your imagination - Vintage doesn’t necessarily mean teacups and bunting – you can create rustic, glam or luxurious vintage looks by using crystal, glassware, silverware or piles of old books. Think Gatsby - Research parties of a bygone era by watching period films, looking through books and magazines at your local library to get inspiration. Pinterest is also a new fantastic source of inspiration allowing you to create online mood boards that you can add to or edit at anytime.

Embrace your inner child - Use items from your childhood for a nostalgic twist - for example, old retro sweets served usherette-style in wooden crates, or a chill-out area of the marquee, complete with vintage board games to entertain the masses post-dinner. Prep your props - Use larger props such a sewing machines or suitcases to add interest to specific areas and create zones in your reception venue. Keep it simple - Less is sometimes more. A simple candelabra draped with pearls can make a gorgeous table centre when surrounded with masses of petals. Do your Research - If you’re looking to achieve an era-themed wedding make sure you do your research well and theme ever last detail including the font in your stationery. Pay attention to every detail, from the napkins to the wedding attire of the wedding couple. A brooch or a bracelet can completely change the style of the bride! Whether you opt for accessories from your grandmother, or reproductions of well-made vintage items, the important thing is that no detail is forgotten! Inform your guests about your intention to make something different! Let them be in the mood of turning back the hands of time. Your guests may also dress up vintage fashion and add more magic to your wedding reception!

Rebecca Rojas M A K E - U P A RT I S T

Private Wedding Planning Workshop For you and your Fiancé

Saturday March 8th, Sunday March 9th / £175 One to One session (approx. 2hr) with an experienced Wedding Planning Consultant. You will learn all the vital tools to plan the perfect wedding day. We will help discover the Wedding Planner in you so you can enjoy a stress-free path to your Special Day. To book or for more details, please contact the PK Events Team: info@lovepkevents.com 07703294519 www.lovepkevents.com

Contact Rebecca for a professional wedding make-up service. London based, and available to work anywhere in the UK upon request. Rebecca is an experienced make-up artist whose work has featured in Vogue Italia and several UK magazines. Quote Meridian magazine to receive promotional rate.

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Beautiful bespoke cakes for weddings and occasions, based in the heart of Greenwich 18 | www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

020 8465 5534 nazan@daisycakes.co.uk www.daisycakes.co.uk

Weddings

Your Wedding Day a day to remember… In a recent Which? survey, nearly one in ten people (9%) married in the last five years said they were dissatisfied with their wedding photographer. So how to avoid problems in the first place? Meridian asked local Photographer Sarah Gawler for her advice: You might be tempted to ask a friend to take your photographs? Don’t, unless you’re both happy that ‘photographer’ is their role for the day. It’s easy to be relaxed about this kind of arrangement before the wedding itself but being part guest, part-wedding photographer is a lot of pressure. How to choose the right photographer? When researching photographers pay attention to the look and feel of their images. Is the processing style gritty & edgy, light & ethereal, vivid & bright? Does their shooting style look posed or natural? Choose your photographer based upon what they present on their website and more importantly their blog (where you can see overviews of whole weddings they’ve shot). Photographers work hard polishing their style and keeping it consistent - don’t expect them to produce something different for you than what they present online.

Questions to ask your photographer are: Will we map out the day together ahead of the wedding? It’s all in the planning! If you’re both clear on the schedule and realistic on the timings it should be plain sailing. What should we expect on the day? Ask them a little about their shooting style on the day, do they shoot purely reportage or do they step in a little to direct? Or a little bit of both? Just get them talking about how they work so you can get an idea of what they’ll be like to have around on the day. What’s your turn around time for wedding images? The majority of wedding photographers at the moment in the UK are digital and although digital postproduction labs are on the rise most do their own postproduction themselves. The process is probably much more labour intensive than you may think and in peak wedding season turnaround times maybe a bit slower. Talk to your photographer about their processes and find out when you should expect your wedding images. Remember, the photographer is the longest and possibly the closest supplier relationship you’ll have throughout the wedding process. They will be pretty much by your side for the whole day and then you’ll be in touch with them up until the wedding photographs are ready. If you like their style, relax and let them do their job.

Opening hours 9.30am - 4.30pm

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020 8325 6930

3 Walden Parade Walden Road Chislehurst Kent BR7 5DW

www.shelleyscakes.com www.meridian-magazine.co.uk | 19

Wedding Planning Workshop for Brides and Grooms

Weddings

Wedding Snippets

Are you newly engaged? Feeling overwhelmed? Not sure where to start with planning your wedding? Our Wedding Planning Workshop is just what you need to feel empowered to plan your own wedding from start to finish. We will share with you the vital tools to plan the perfect wedding day. There will be a big emphasis on how to spend your wedding budget wisely; where to spend - where to save, ultimately making your budget work for you. We will work with you to bring your wedding style to life. You see, dream weddings really can become a reality post-workshop, our step by step monthly wedding planner will keep you on track regardless of the length of time you have to plan your day. You will also have the opportunity to send us any questions or queries you may have forgotten to ask during the workshop. Taking place at London Bridge on 8 & 9 March, each session(1.5hour) is private and tailor made for you and your partner. For only £175 per couple, this is an opportunity not to be missed.To reserve your place at the workshop please contact us on info@lovepkevents.com or 07703294519. Prepare to be enlightened!

Weddings at Blackheath Rugby.

Blackheath Rugby Club is the oldest open rugby club in the world and has two fantastic sites under its name. One steeped in history and the other a little gem of a find for the Club, building a new history. Club @ Well Hall has many advantages to its new facility, one of which is its newly refurbished function room.

Wealth of Floral Knowledge This wonderful floral boutique is the first for Karen Woolven, who has run an established business, which specialises in flowers for events for the past 10 years. Determined that only the best and freshest flowers and plants are available for customers, and with a wealth of floral knowledge and experience behind the team, you are always assured of a warm welcome and a stress free purchase. 18 Royal Hill Greenwich SE10 8RT, 020 8858 1112, Facebook.com/karenwoolvenflowers

Affordable quality weddings with a warm and friendly atmosphere Summer 2014 dates still available Wedding packages available Prices as little as £25.00 per person Full planning service available Good quality home made menus Selection of fine wines Disabled access 80 sit down capacity 120 evening guests Discounted off-peak rates

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•Allergy testing and treatment •Indian Head Massage

Anne Gordon MSEC (Pract) DPT BRCP Dip. Phy. 020 8355 4040 | anne_de_menthon@hotmail.com

GET FITTER, FIRMER & FASTER NATURE’S GYM ON BLACKHEATH! The Team & I look forward to training you soon! START DATES -March 3rd and March 31st Four week intensive course. Only 20 places each camp. 6, 7 or 9.30 am Mon, Weds & Thurs - £150 12 x’s 45 mins 7.30 pm Mon & Weds - £100 8 x’s 45 mins Taster/Top up session once a month

10%

Discount for new clients

0788 422 1343 @ natashag reen_1 www.natashag reenpersonaltraining.com info@natashagreenpersonaltraining.com 20 | www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

Rural peace just twenty minutes from Central London, and a fantastic destination venue. As well as being the perfect setting to host events including weddings, parties, conference, wakes and special occasions. 020 8850 0210.

Fashion

Spring fashion is all about pastels with a touch of lace for the romantics A rainbow of soft springtime shades reigned throughout the collections on the catwalks for spring/summer 2014. Pastel was first spotted at Burberry, where contrasting silhouettes and sheer fabrics tempered sugar-sweet shades. In Milan, Donatella Versace adopted pastels for Versace’s collection, taming the house’s characteristic glamour with dashes of pale colour. Marco Zanini kept things pale and interesting for his last collection for Rochas, (before moving to Schiaparelli) offering buttercup yellow jacquard coats and intricately embroidered dresses. Miu Mui’s unique take on the trend, had a 1970s twist on pastels in the form of its tailored coats and jackets with colour-blocking the soft shades.

For those who like their fashion on the sweet side

Lace was officially one of the most tweeted terms over Fashion Week. Burberry’s catwalk featured tailored spiderwebs in soft pastels, Chloe did laser cut lace, and Peter Pilotto, House of Holland, and Meadham Kirchoff embraced the feminine fabric too. It fits perfectly with the effortless and romantic mood of the season’s trend. The trend for pastel shades will suit across the ages and you can pick your most-flattering colour and wear it with whatever silhouette that flatters you. From minty-green shorts suit to a lilac mid length tea dress to a sporty baby blue bomber jacket, the sky’s the limit on how pastel-happy you want to get. The ranges will soon be finding their way into the high street stores and boutiques. Here’s a sneak preview of what you might find.

Oliver Bonas Green bracelet felix bracelet £24 Shoes Dunnes Stores: Savida Bow Bag Radley ‘Border Heritage’ £179 Posey Strap dress £72 Eucalyptus clothing stockist 020 7740 6323

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Health & Beauty

Ask the Expert Winter health & beauty tips and advice NEWLY OPENED Greenwich Chiropractic is a family centered clinic with chiropractor Dr. Chris Julian providing experienced, safe and effective care. Chris is originally from Sydney and has also spent time in New Zealand where he worked internationally as Medical Officer for the National Men’s Ice Hockey team, the Ice Blacks as well as being involved with other international teams and athletes. His research in the field has been published in peer-reviewed journals. Since moving to London, Chris has also gained considerable experience in a corporate setting and ergonomics during his time working in Canary Wharf both in private practice and providing in house corporate services. His wellrounded experience puts him in a good position to help people from all walks of life, from one year old to 100, reach their full health potential by providing the highest quality, evidence-based care.

REJUVADETOX We all live incredibly toxic lives,either through medication and vaccinations, polluted environments, smoke whether passive or not, alcohol, drugs, foodless foods and pesticides. It goes on and on. One of the biggest toxins of all is stress- negative emotions causes imbalance in our bodies. We then experience inflammation within the body and health conditions start to bubble away. This could be anything from troubled sleep, IBS, skin conditions to hormonal imbalances, joint pain and depression. Though many experts say ‘you are what you eat’ in reality you are only what you absorb. This is where RejuvaDetox steps in with its unrivalled and revolutionary approach. A 40-minute session on this established system allows stimulation of the lymph system to encourage waste matter and toxins to leave the body and good nutrition to be absorbed, It helps the body to alkalise and break down hard fats as well as rebalance hormones, blood pressure and blood sugars and cholesterol. Because toxins are 2.5 times heavier than fat, if inch and weight loss is necessary it occurs quickly and stays off. Results are life changing and have been used by GP,s nurses and health practitioners for over a decade. Diabetics have been known to hugely decrease their insulin after just a 4-week course. A free consultation and heath scan will establish what results you can expert from the programme. RejuvaDetox is suitable for both men and women and results are guaranteed otherwise you receive free treatments. www.healths-angels.com 01322 555600

www.greenwichchiropractic.co.uk. 02030054862.

Competition Bannatyne’s Grove Park is a superb purpose-built Health Club located close to the A20 and also Grove Park rail station. Whether you want to drop a clothing size, get to the top of the stairs without puffing, or simply chill out and relax – their team are here to help. A warm and friendly welcome awaits you from both our staff and existing members. So, why not take that step to the lifestyle you deserve, give us a call to arrange your tour today. We look forward to seeing you at the club. One lucky winner can win a Joint Membership for 1 month - value £108. Simply send your name, address and daytime telephone number to Meridian magazine (Bannatyne’s), 8 The Village, Charlton, SE7 8UD. Or email your details to competition@meridian-magazine.co.uk by 28 February.

Greenwich Chiropractic is a family centered clinic with chiropractor Dr Chris Julian providing experianced and effective care to optimize your health. Common conditions we treat:

Located within My DetoxDiet

20 College Approach, Greenwich SE10 9HY

• Back pain • Neck Pain • Shoulder pain • Headaches • Hip and knee injuries • Sports injuries • Pain management

0203 005 4862 | www.greenwichchiropractic.co.uk Recognised by most major insurance companies

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IS THERE REALLY A LINK BETWEEN GUM DISEASE AND HEART DISEASE? It is well known that poor dental hygiene can lead to gum disease and its unpleasant symptoms of swollen and bleeding gums, bad breath and most commonly, tooth loss. Less well known and more concerning however, is the link between gum disease and heart disease, in particular the narrowing of the arteries due to a buildup of plaque known as atherosclerosis. Research recently undertaken at Columbia University in New York, has shown that the narrowing of the arteries due to the build-up of plaque progressed in parallel with gum (periodontal) disease. Results showed that as gum health improved, the progression of atherosclerosis slowed to a clinically significant degree. So what does this mean to you? If you want to prevent heart disease and maintain your smile, keeping the gums healthy is the first step. Your dentist should be able to diagnose whether you have signs of gum disease. Some dentists have the time and expertise to thoroughly treat you themselves but others will refer you to a dental hygienist

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FINN DENTAL SPECIALISTS

or to a gum specialist, depending on the severity of the problem. Using the right techniques and equipment at home is fundamental to a successful outcome as well as the meticulous, professional removal of hard deposits under your gum-line. This takes time and expertise. Tracey Murphy, the exceptionally caring dental hygienist at Finn Dental Specialists takes referrals from dentists who do not have a dental hygienist in their practice. Tracey is very diligent and takes as much time as needed to produce outstanding results. You can also self refer to the practice if you want an opinion on whether your gums are healthy. Simply call 0208 658 1230 or email info@finndental.co.uk. New patients will receive a £10 discount on their first appointment with Tracey when quoting this code: FDS 1 Finn Dental Specialists, Backwoods, kelsey lane, Beckenham BR3 3NE www.findentalspecialists.com

Testimonials from some of Tracy’s patients: ‘I have never come across someone who can clean teeth as well as Tracey quite apart from the endless stream of amusing stories which take my mind off the anxiety of going to the dentist.’ ‘As far as I am concerned she is the best hygienist I have come across and I am very fortunate to be one of her patients.’

MERIDIAN

SUPPLEMENT

Our guide to the best in education locally

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Education Tutoring

LCN Performing Arts If your children like the idea of drama games, street dance, musical theatre, singing the latest songs and creative improvisation then LCN Performing Arts is for you. Held locally at Kingswood Halls Annex (SE13 5BU) for 3 – 16 year olds on a Saturday morning with a new class for pre-schoolers due to popular demand. LCN runs holiday schools where everyone wins something for their contribution and progress - from a medal to a mug or even a trip to see a west end show. LCN has been running for 9 years and its success is the friendly fun classes and consistent staff. Call Laura on 07790 037288

Celebrations at Blackheath Prep Blackheath Prep School has had much to celebrate recently. The school was delighted to be awarded with a trophy from Best-Schools League Table naming them as a Top Ten London Preparatory School.

Ruth offers in-home assessment and tuition to pupils who need help and support with preparation for the new 11+ assessment tests and Common Entrance exams. With a current fully enhanced DBS check, Ruth has 20 years teaching experience in London Secondary Schools. Her individual tutoring started by helping her nephew, a Year 5 boy, prepare for Grammar School Entry. Many schools do not prepare students for these tests. With a holistic approach to teaching, she not only evaluated the work he was doing, but made suggestions to improve his working conditions, which had an enormous impact on his learning. His parents can see that he has made exceptional progress and are really pleased. Very keen on the importance of homework, her students are set this on a weekly basis and their progress monitored and tracked with regular assessments. Every child is treated individually according to their needs. For further information ring Ruth now on 02088574672 / 07415697247.

Ahoy there! Faraday School children took to the high seas in an innovative collaborative art project that celebrated the River Thames important historical trading past. Pupils in Years 2 - 6 were treated to an art workshop provided by working artists Felipe Martinez- Villalba (Captain Felipe!) and Daniel Simon Ayat. The activity taught children about the history of international trade and shipping and how this shaped Faraday School’s local area. The pupils used their imaginations to ‘sail’ across the ocean by selecting a colour of fabric which best represented the colour of the sea and this provided a background on which the children could sail their ships.

Their ranking was based on the high percentage of leavers progressing to top academic Senior Schools in 2013. Year on year, the results of the leavers at Blackheath Prep are exceptional. In 2013 28 out of 43 pupils were awarded academic scholarships at Alleyn’s, Dulwich College, JAGS, Sevenoaks, City of London Boys and Girls, Eltham College and Colfe’s and/or places at Newstead Wood and St. Olave’s. The school’s Chamber Choir has also reached the finals of the BBC1 Songs of Praise Choir of the Year Competition 2014. This is a fantastic achievement – out of over 1000 entries from Junior and Senior schools, six junior choirs and six senior choirs are selected to take part in the televised competition which will be shown on national television in the spring. The Chamber Choir will also be competing in Barnardo’s Choir of the Year competition at the Barbican in March. Blackheath Prep is an independent prep school for boys and girls aged 3 to 11.

The fabrics that the children chose will be used to determine the colours of a new sculptural installation on Orchard Place. This will serve as a lasting reminder of the children’s fictional explorations and demonstrates just how valuable the Faraday children are to the thriving artistic community on Trinity Buoy Wharf. Head Teacher, Mrs Susan Stark, said: ‘Faraday School’s location, where the River Lea meets the River Thames, offers so many rich learning experiences for the children.’

Blackheath Preparatory School Tel: 020 8858 0692, 4 St Germans Place, Blackheath SE3 0NJ www.blackheathprepschool.com

Faraday School is an independent primary school, owned and operated by the New Model School Company.

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Nurturing a Lifetime of Music Monkey Music is the UK’s premium music group for pre-school children. In its 21st year, Monkey Music offers music classes in the local area to pre-school children. For tailor-made curricula catered specifically for each individual age group: Rock’n’Roll for very young babies 3 – 10 months, Heigh-Ho 10 months – 2 years, Jiggety-Jig 2 – 3 years and Ding-Dong 3 – 4 years. Original songs are supported by interactive props and unusual percussion instruments. Booking now. For your free, complimentary session please call Rebecca on 020 8764 5185 or click on http://www.monkeymusic.co.uk/area/ blackheath-greenwich Young Education Services has been established for 23 years. We provide extra educational support for students from KS1-KS4. Many parents are often unsure of their child’s academic ability. Therefore, students can now sit a one-off national assessment in order for parents to ascertain their level. YES has also become a mock exam centre. Parents may send their children to YES for regular practice prior to 7+, 11+ or 13+ exams. During holiday times we run courses relevant to students’ academic needs. If you would like to know more about these facilities, please contact the centre on 0208 858 9180/ 07850 132 904, or you may email your enquiry to info@youngeducationservices.co.uk. Alternatively, you can visit our website at www. youngeducationservices.co.uk.

Bishop Challoner At Bishop Challoner your child will learn within a caring happy and secure environment. We are committed to ‘outstanding pastoral care’ and the highest level of academic achievement. As a Catholic, Independent, Co-educational Day School, all our students in our Nursery, Junior, Senior and Sixth Form are able to grow to their full potential so that they may become confident, responsible and caring members of society.

Our ethos is one that nurtures individual talent, respects all faiths and creates a learning partnership for all. We are proud of our students who flourish in a community where individual support and attention is second to none. We achieve excellent results at GCSE and A Level representing a lot of hard work and dedication. Our motto challenges each and every student to ‘dare to do their very best’. This advertisement can do no more than briefly describe the school and its community. Therefore, we invite you to visit us, to experience the life of the school at first hand; you can be assured of a warm welcome.

Have you ever felt that your daughter’s education is not quite top notch?

erhaps the teachers don’t always go the extra mile, or the quality of pastoral care isn’t what you would like? Maybe the school does not offer much in the way of co-curricular and enrichment activities, and seems to focus too much on pushing her in the core subjects but without thinking about what really makes an education excellent? If these are the kind of questions that arise in your family, you might have looked around at other schools and considered the benefits of an Independent education, but been frightened off by the fees and assumed that this is not a route that you might be able to consider. Excellent Independent Schools are very aware of the challenges on all families’ budgets at the moment; it is for this reason that they place such emphasis on the need to provide fees assistance through scholarships and bursaries. At Bromley High School we are proud to be launching a new scholarship programme this year for 13+ years girls who are looking to join the school in Year 9 in September 2014. A scholarship could be the gateway to a life changing education for your daughter. An award could allow her access to an excellent education in the very broadest sense. A hard working school, with an ethos which focuses on the individual needs of each girl; an enriched curriculum with many opportunities for activities within and beyond the classroom that will support, engage and extend her learning, and, crucially, excellent pastoral care and life long relationships with her friends and teachers that will support her to thrive in the classroom and achieve things that you never thought possible. If your daughter could benefit from an academic scholarship, or one in sport or the creative arts, and could give much to the school in return, please get in touch with us at; admissions@bro.gdst.net. We look forward to meeting your daughter. Louise Simpson, Head Bromley High School, Blackbrook Lane, Bickley. Bromley, Kent BR1 2TW www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net Email: admissions@bro.gdst.net Tel 020 8781 7000

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The Pillars of Learning

The fundamental values for educating the whole person

t Blackheath High School we deliver an education that provides opportunities to develop skills, to gain knowledge and to strengthen character. In order to achieve this, our teaching and learning is supported by our unique ‘Pillars of Learning’ which are: Resilience; Enterprise; Innovation; Community Spirit and Environmental Awareness. Implementing these pillars encourages our girls to develop the thoughts, values and behaviours that we promote at Blackheath High School. We provide an enriched curriculum that is not confined to a classroom or restricted to school hours. Instead, we recognise that everything we do has the power to influence the kind of women that our girls will become. Our ‘Pillars of Learning’ support our aim to equip our learners with the confidence needed to see opportunities not boundaries, challenges not obstacles and a belief in themselves that they have an important contribution to make to their School, to their community and beyond. Our focus is on all round development; each pupil is inspired to ‘aim high’ in all that they do, academically and beyond. Whilst we are obviously proud of our girls’ academic success, we realise that, whilst excellent qualifications will enable our girls to study at their university of choice and provide them with the basic entry requirements for their chosen careers, it is their personal qualities and skills that will help them to climb the ladder of success in a globalised, competitive work place. Our Pillars of Learning are nurtured, as part of the school’s culture, during lessons, assemblies and form times. For example, to help instil ‘Resilience’, girls are encouraged to take risks in their lessons and to learn the importance of being able to bounce back from inevitable failure.

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Even our youngest pupils have a mantra ‘be brave and strong, when little things go wrong’ and, throughout their school lives our girls are taught to face challenges that push them out of their comfort zones. In addition, all girls participate in outward bound adventure trips, through which they gain confidence and self-esteem. Similarly, ‘Enterprise’ is taught through supporting and guiding our students to plan, organise and manage initiatives such as fundraising events, displaying a wealth of ideas and creative skills with great enthusiasm! This helps them to learn to use their initiative, to research products and ideas, and to apply their academic knowledge to ‘real life’ situations. This develops resourcefulness and the ability to make informed decisions. They are also encouraged to think “outside of the box” and be innovative. Here, girls benefit from an education described by the Independent Schools’ Inspectorate as “stimulating and extraordinarily supportive; conducive to the highest standards of teaching and learning.” We appreciate that each girl is different and we value those differences. But, with our distinctive approach to education, all of our girls develop a love of learning, and typically become resilient and confident young women. We look forward to welcoming you to visit our school to see for yourself what makes our school so unique.

www.blackheathhighschool.gdst.net 020 8853 2929 Open Mornings: Wednesday 5th and Thursday 6th March and visits welcomed at other times by arrangement

Education

The Best of Both Worlds P J Henderson (Headmaster, Eltham College)

arents and educationalists often divide themselves into two camps when it comes to discussions on co-education in schools; they are either for it or against it! It is either ‘the most natural thing in the world’, or it ‘must be avoided at all costs’. However, there is surely a third way, which can both work and be natural. While the Girls School Association for some time has been promoting the advantages of single sex education, the trend over the latter half of the 20th Century was to move towards co-educational establishments. The supporters of this move pointed out that it was more natural and most other countries worked that way, while the cynics argued that, particularly amongst independent schools boys, schools went co-ed to improve their results! However, it has been accepted in most educational circles that boys and girls learn and study in very different ways. While it may be dangerous to generalise, most teachers will tell you that girls

between the ages of 11 and 16 are hard-working, very precise and want to get a perfect answer. Meanwhile boys of the same age will cut corners, will need to be cajoled into completing anything on time and will respond much better to the competition within the class. These differences have given rise to the creation of “diamond” schools i.e. co-educational at the Primary level, single sex for the Years 7 – 11, and then co-educational in the Sixth Form. At Eltham College, we may not have the full diamond shape but we are committed to single sex education up to the end of Year 11 and then having boys and girls together in Sixth Form. We find that adolescent boys have no stigma about singing in choirs, reading Shakespeare or learning modern languages when there are no girls about. We can also concentrate on the things that boys like doing outside the classroom like rugby, fencing, building kit cars and rockets!

become more mature almost instantly, meanwhile the girls learn that the boys’ self-confidence is a remarkable gift when it comes to achieving success. At the same time they both discover the joy of reading literature together, or working on an experiment in Biology together: having both the male and female perspectives gives a better understanding of the human condition in both disciplines. And finally, as most of our pupils are looking to go on to University, the co-educational environment is the ideal preparation for the next step. Therefore, can I suggest that many young people would benefit from a mixed style of education? Let them each develop through the adolescent years apart and then enjoy the best of both worlds when they come together in the Sixth Form years. Telephone: 020 8857 1455 www.eltham-college.org.uk

An amazing thing tends to happen at the age of 16 when we introduce girls into our Sixth Form. The boys

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WANTED - Friendly and Welcoming Host Families Earn £200+ per week

Have you got a spare room in your home? Then turn it into cash: host our well behaved, lovely, polite foreign students. You will be required to give breakfast, packed lunch and dinner. Our students go to school in the morning and sightseeing in the afternoon with their teachers. No daily pick-ups or drop-offs as the students are over 15 years old, independent with their own travelcards.They are here to improve their English so you must be out-going and willing to engage them in conversation. We are interested in hearing from you if you live in one of the following postcodes:

SE9 (Eltham only) SE3 SE10

SE12 SE7 SE18 (Shooters Hil)

You should live close to bus routes 286, 177, 386, 180, 188, 129 and others going directly into East and West Greenwich Please call one of our friendly team on 07591 502376 or 07572 793558

Op Mornen ing

Bringing out the best

Sat 1 M 10.00 arch -12.0 0

Young Education Services Give your child a head start At YES we can help pupils fulfil themselves academically.

Now booking for February half term revision courses for 11+ from 17th - 21st February We are now a mock exam centre for 11+ exams. Next mock exams will be held on 8th,15th February, 15th March and 12th April Not sure of your child’s ability? Worried about your child’s academic progress? Book a formal assessment with us.

TUTORS & VOLUNTEERS REQUIRED

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Education

Turn your spare room into cash Are you a friendly and welcoming family with a spare room in your home?

he company English Elite Home Stays was created several years ago by two experienced, qualified teachers, Margaret and Annabel. Both have experience teaching TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) in the UK and Europe and wanted to give their students a more rounded experience. So setting up the successful business, English Elite Home Stays offering students from Austria, Germany and Switzerland a combination of English lessons, tourist visits and the experience of an English family home was a natural progression. Due to demand English Elite are looking for additional host families in the SE3, SE7, SE9 (Eltham only), SE10, SE12 and SE18 (Shooters Hill) area. If you live in one of the above postcodes and have a spare room in your home to offer a pair of students then it could generate an income of £238 per week.

Host families are not required to arrange time consuming daily pick-ups or drop-offs as all the students are aged 15 years and above and are independent with their own travel cards. As the students travel every morning into central Greenwich for their classes it would be an advantage if host families were situated close to bus routes 129, 177, 180, 188, 286, and 386. Host families are required to provide breakfast, packed lunch and dinner. The students have classes during the morning and sightseeing visits during the afternoon with their teachers before making their way home for dinner. Staying with a host family is a very important part of the student’s visit and as they are here to improve their English you should be out-going and willing to engage them in conversation. A host family should be welcoming, kind and happy to spend

time with the students. Some students will be nervous and away from their home for the very first time without their parents, so it is important that they feel ‘at home’ in your house. If you feel that you and your home fit the criteria then please call one of the telephone numbers below to find out more. Offering your hospitality to foreign students can be most enjoyable. Some students stay in touch with their host families for many years to come. The welcome you give them can form a lasting impression of English culture and the people they meet. If the spare accommodation you have available has on-suite facilities it might be considered for the foreign teachers that accompany the students. For more information call one of the friendly team on 07591 502376 or 07572 793558.

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Education

An exciting year for King’s Rochester ith a history of 1400 years, it’s not always easy to single out any one year as a highlight for King’s Rochester, but 2013 has brought many new developments and achievements for the school.

largely as a result of the popularity of Toddler Time, a fun activity group held on term-time Wednesdays for local parents/carers and children from birth to four. Early registration for the King’s Nursery is now essential.

The year started with the commencement of King’s halfmillion pound refurbishment of the former, Council-run Stirling Centre. The re-named King’s Rochester Sports Centre is now home to seven top-quality, outdoor tennis and/or netball courts, a large gymnasium, a fitness room featuring a new range of Technogym cardiovascular equipment, a physiotherapy suite and refurbished changing rooms. In addition to the existing indoor swimming pool on the school site and two national-standard hockey pitches at Holcombe, this has transformed sport at King’s Rochester into some of the best in the South East. King’s Nursery increased its numbers greatly in 2013,

Last August, King’s celebrated top A level and GCSE successes with its pupils. 33% of all A level passes were in the coveted A* and A brackets and 66% were at A* to B, making 2013 results even better than 2012’s high standards.This was particularly impressive in a year when grades dropped nationally. As a consequence 43% of King’s A level leavers entered Russell Group universities and over half went to the Top 30 UK Universities (The Sunday Times League Table). 2013 GCSE pupils at this broad-ability school achieved an impressive 43% A*/A and 70% A*-B grades too which makes last year’s results some of the best in the last five years.

King’s Rochester has always taken seriously the job of providing its pupils with an outstanding education and preparing each one for the challenges of an evermore demanding world. King’s not only supports pupils to achieve the sort of top examination results which open the doors to the best universities and future careers, but also offers wide and challenging extra-curricular programmes, extended days to help working parents and friendship networks which last a lifetime. To find out more about King’s, a great place to start is the Open Day on Saturday 1 March 2014. The event takes place from 9.30 to 12.00 noon, and Principal, Jeremy Walker will speak at 9.45 am. Booking is not required but please contact Registrar, Lynne Davies on 01634 888590 with any questions or email her on admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk. You can also visit www.kings-rochester.co.uk for more information.

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GCSE results misrepresented It was appalling to see some of the examination results misrepresented in the national papers last week. Babington House School’s 2013 GCSE results were very strong indeed, but unfortunately the school was not recognised for its undoubted achievement. In fact Babington House achieved 100% 5 A*-C (not 43%), with 77% 5 A* C including English and Mathematics (not 33%). 85% of pupils achieved 7 A* - C, with 68% of all grades at A*, A and B. The percentage of A* and A grades was 35%. The Department for Education have been advised and assurances made that the results will be amended and correctly detailed in newspapers before the February 2014 editions. Babington House School is very proud of its long standing academic achievements and continues to do its utmost to improve them even further; in fact an entrance examination for entry to Year 7 has been introduced this year. One of Babington’s greatest strengths is the way it improves pupils’ academic levels above their predictions, with almost all pupils achieving two or three grades higher than their predictions at GCSE across a whole range of their subjects. This critical fact is hardly ever mentioned in the newspapers. ‘We will continue to get the very best results, benefiting as we do from small class sizes and an individual approach’, said Tim Lello, Headmaster. For further information please contact: Helen Balfour, Marketing Manager Tel: 020 8467 5537 Ex 291

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Education

Tougher Minds: the real Olympic legacy?

he astounding success of the British Olympians in London 2012 owed as much to mental preparation for the games as to physical training. Every Olympic success story was as much about psychology as it was about physical training. Put simply, British athletes prepared more effectively for success than those whom they defeated. In September 2013, a year on from the Olympics, Colfe’s School introduced an academic training regime for GCSE pupils which borrows heavily from techniques developed in sport, not only in athletics but also in professional rugby, golf and elsewhere. The ‘Tougher Minds’ approach, as it is known, entails a highly proactive approach to learning with daily target setting and regular reflection on progress. A target could be as simple as ‘pay more attention in Maths.’ It could also be specific: simultaneous equations in Maths, or the use of the gerundive in Latin. The central point is that the pupils identify the targets for themselves. They take responsibility for their own learning and develop a real sense of academic purpose. The programme has been spear-headed by Jon Finn and Professor Jim McKenna of Leeds Metropolitan University. Jon has worked with a broad range of world-class athletes and coaches, including a number of professional golfers on the European Tour and Jim has coached a host of world-class performers over a 25 year period. Both are convinced of the validity of their approach outside the confines of the world of sport. Having worked recently with a number of our successful Oxbridge candidates, Professor McKenna is even more convinced about the potential of the programme in schools: ‘Many of the techniques developed for the Tougher Minds programme could be regarded as ‘common sense’ for effective learning. However they are not common practice; and the positive results at Colfe’s have been achieved by combining this approach with our understanding of neuroscience and human performance.’ The Tougher Minds approach has found fertile ground in the Colfe’s staff room as well and upwards of 30 members of staff have followed training to enable them to deliver the programme. But perhaps the most telling evidence of the success of the programme is the extent to which it has struck a chord with Colfe’s parents. More than a hundred Year 10 and 11 Colfe’s parents have already signed up for the Tougher Minds training, giving up evenings to follow the same disciplines as their children. Many have commented on the extent to which it has improved their own effectiveness, not only as parents but also in their working lives. This year and next, our objective is to embed the Tougher Minds approach at Colfe’s in the learning culture of the whole school and to involve parents, even more closely, in the academic lives of their children. I would like to think that the real Olympic legacy may eventually be identified in the classrooms of our schools. Colfe’s teachers and pupils certainly understand that success does not happen by accident. That knowledge will remain with them long after they have left school and will be of value throughout their working lives.

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Shooters Hill The Path to Meaningful Employment Shooters Hill Campus is celebrating its twelfth year of continuing success, higher achievement and greater numbers of students progressing onto University or finding meaningful employment. Over the last twelve months we have continued investing in updating our infrastructure and creating ‘state-of-the-art’ IT facilities as well as developing our campus to support 21st Century learning and teaching styles. Here at Shooters Hill we pride ourselves on providing a student centred, fun and exciting environment whilst maintaining a relentless pursuit of quality from both staff and students. Shooters Hill’s core values are at the heart of everything that we do and truly drive our organisation to exceed expectations. Through aspirational and motivating leadership the campus aims to inspire shared values, develop leadership skills and accountability in the young thinkers that study with us, to build strong collaborative

Education

partnerships with our students to help them grow and achieve to the best of their ability. Campus Courses As the second largest 6th form provider in the country, Shooters Hill has a wide ranging course offer available to new and existing students. Not only do we offer over 35+ different A-Level subjects we also offer an extensive range of Vocational Qualifications such BTECs & NVQs in many subjects, running through from Entry Level 3 to Level 3. In addition to this we also offer several Level 3 Advanced Extended Diplomas in subjects such as Applied Science, Construction, Art & Design, Creative Media Production and Sport, so here at Shooters Hill we really do have a course for everyone. If you would like to come and visit the campus, meet our teaching staff and have a good look around at what we can offer you, our next open events are:

Thursday March 6th 2014 5pm-8pm Friday 4th July 2014 12pm – 3pm To find out more information call our Admissions line on 0208 319 9427 or visit our website www. shootershill.ac.uk

Thursday 6th March 2014 5pm-8pm

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk | 37

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Job Vacancy Eltham Green Nursery

Early Years Practitioner - Maternity Cover Eltham Green Nursery is a term time only nursery. We require an EYP to work in our small friendly team to observe, plan, evaluate, and record children’s progress. Maintain high standards of care and hygiene, and to liase with parents. Requirements NVQ Level 3 or equivalent, be ﬂexible friendly and to be able to work as part of a team. Hours 7:45am-17:30pm staggered shift system. Starting date Tuesday 22nd April 2014 £15,600 pa Term time only

To apply contact Susan Walker 0208 850 4720 / 0208 859 9233 or email swalker@elthamfoundation.com Closing date 21st February 2014 C/o Harris Academy, Middle Park Avenue, SE9 5EQ 38 | www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

Playing The Part

Education

“The confidence the girls acquire - it is terrifying getting up to perform in front of people - is fantastic and spurs them on to keep going in life, taking risks, going outside of their comfort zones, being brave… and can be applied to any goal they take on in life,”

nly half of all Cobham Hall girls take formal drama lessons at any given time, but all girls at Cobham will be dramatically involved one way or another throughout their time at the school. We don’t believe that theatrics should be confined to drama lessons or to the dramatic elite. We expect and encourage all girls to participate in plays and festivals and skits of the comic or serious kind across many different subjects and events. Drama can be found in the annual Medieval Feast, in assemblies, talent shows, role-plays in Spanish and court room scenes performed entirely in Latin. But we’re not a performing arts school – in fact we pride ourselves on the all-round nature of a Cobham education. So what’s the point here? Speaking to Cobham’s Head of Drama, Kym Martin, after the recent Drama Festival provides the necessary insight. Drama, she says, is about so much more than the ability to act. Risk-taking, creative thinking, problem-solving, team work, communication, initiative and courage are all part of the process before and during any performance.

“The confidence the girls acquire - it is terrifying getting up to perform in front of people - is fantastic and spurs them on to keep going in life, in taking risks, going outside of their comfort zones, being brave…and can be applied to any goal they take on in life,” she says. Our approach to Drama highlights a number of important things about life at Cobham and the kind of education we believe in. The most obvious is the idea that not all education takes place in a classroom, sitting at a desk. It is entirely possible that some of the most important things girls learn at school – those that help them live successful, happy lives – will not happen during lessons. They might be learned on the sports field, on a school trip, through our community service programme or in the drama studio. The notion of experiential education – learning through doing – is a key element of the school’s Round Square philosophy.

The idea that all learning and experience is connected and that no activity, lesson or thought should exist in a silo is something else that proves the worth of activities like the Drama Festival or school production in developing multi-facetted young women. That these kinds of events, usually undertaken for pure enjoyment, might contribute to better performance in examinations – we achieved our best ever GCSE results and our highest International Baccalaureate Diploma pass rate in 2013 – is another wonder of a fully connected, integrated, interactive education – the kind girls find at Cobham. The aim of which is to instil in girls an enthusiasm for uncharted waters – an active desire to go forth and conquer the unknown; to understand themselves and the world better and to be amazed at what they find within themselves to change the world around them.

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk | 39

The Perfect Start

Education

“Children trust and respect their teachers and relate well to each other.” (ISI 2013)

any children at Sevenoaks Prep begin their school life in the Nursery at the age of two. It is a warm, secure environment with dedicated, experienced teachers who put children and parents at ease. Children are treated as individuals and take part in a wide range of activities that allow them to grow in confidence and to feel part of the wider school community. At the beginning of each morning the children and teachers in the Nursery gather round for circle time and introduce the activities for that morning. Cookery, music, nature trails, craft, colouring, tumble tots, stories, drama and science are just some that are enjoyed. It is vital that the children have fun while they are learning. Their social skills are greatly enhanced by the interaction they have with their peers and teachers. Mrs Sue Binnie, Head of the Nursery, recognises the importance of treating each child as an individual and understanding their strengths and challenges. In the 2013 ISI (Independent Schools Inspectorate) Report, and also in the most recent Ofsted inspection, The Early Years Foundation Stage was rated as

40 | www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

‘outstanding’ in every area: ‘Children trust and respect their teachers and relate well to each other. They are provided with secure foundations for their future well-being in all aspects of their learning. As a result, they respond to school life with great enthusiasm and enjoyment’ (ISI 2013). The nursery classrooms and outdoor area lie in the heart of the Junior School with close access to the wider school facilities such as the large hall, the adventure playgrounds with specialist play equipment, the fields and access to Knole Park. Nursery children also join school celebrations including special assemblies. Through shared facilities and interaction with the older pupils, Nursery children have an

understanding of the bigger picture of the school which makes a fluid transition to Kindergarten, Reception and beyond. Families are welcome to visit the Nursery as part of a tour of the school, or as a taster session, to appreciate the very special atmosphere for themselves. For further information, please contact Clare Harrison, Director of Admissions, on 01732 762336, or at admissions@theprep.org.uk . Alternatively, visit www.theprep.org.uk.

Education

Enriching F young minds for a successful future

or over 126 years Sydenham High has been educating girls aged 4 to 18 from across London, and the South East to outstandingly high standards with excellent GCSE and A-Level results. But the school’s belief that a 21st century education needs to be about more than examining pupils is equally central to its success. The school’s most recent inspection report (2012) judged it to be outstanding for providing a first class education that allows pupils to be intellectually fulfilled whilst offering lively, stimulating enrichment beyond the classroom. That enrichment is embedded in school life. With small class sizes and individual attention, education at Sydenham High focuses on helping each student to aspire with realism to achieve her personal best. It may be in scuba diving or being part of the hockey team; organising a fundraiser or being in the chess club; producing a school show or leading a Duke of Edinburgh expedition in Morocco. Whatever her individual talent, the school will help her discover and harness it. Headteacher, Kathryn Pullen is proud of this transformational approach: ‘Our girls are articulate, well-informed and open-minded. They are not afraid to accept a challenge and have the courage to try new things and the self-belief to see them through. So as well as being proud of our students’ excellent academic achievements and the fact that they gain places on the courses of their choice, be that Oxbridge, medical school or a Russell Group university, we’re equally proud of our award-winning choir; our musicians; our theatrical productions; our creativity in art and design and our excellent sport.’

The school recently launched a scheme to support and encourage its elite performers, starting with athletes who train and compete at club level and aspire to be future Olympians. Community service and charitable fundraising are also central to the school’s approach and help girls to develop their communication, teamwork and initiative – skills that are important above and beyond academic qualifications for employability. Students raise thousands of pounds each year for the school’s nominated charities and last term alone raised over £2,000 in just one week for the Philippines Typhoon Appeal. ‘Our aim is to prepare each girl for what the future holds – by setting high expectations, providing a strong academic framework, instilling confidence and supporting every girl’s emotional development so that she gains our three Rs: resilience, resourcefulness and reliability – attributes that are vital to deal confidently with an ever-changing world.’ The school’s production of Disney’s Aladdin takes place on 10-12 February. Call 020 7557 7000 for tickets. Open Events take place on: Wednesday 7 May (9.30-11am) for Junior School and on Thursday 8 May (9.30-11am) for Senior School; also Wednesday 26 June (6.30-8pm) at Senior School to coincide with the annual art and design technology showcase. More details are on the school’s website at: www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net

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Want to leave school at 16 & 17?

pprenticeships are a great way to continue your training towards recognised qualification whilst actually working in your chosen career! We have salons and barbers waiting to employ enthusiastic assistants within their salon and reception areas, so if you are thinking about a career in customer service, hairdressing or barbering, then Shears Academy have the apprenticeship for you! As an employee, you will earn the national minimum apprenticeship wage of £2.68 per hour, but will also be supported to attend Shears Academy once a week for formal theory and practical training – you may even be paid more if you are hardworking and have good customer service skills.

The Shears education team are experts in hairdressing training; with their heritage of over 45 years in a salon environment offering excellent hairdressing skills and top-class client care; they will teach, motivate and inspire you to reach your full potential. Just bring your passion for hairdressing and client care and the Shears education team will do the rest. They deliver specialist one-to-one training in english and maths functional skills, and will also teach you your employment rights and responsibilities and develop your personal learning and thinking skills give you the best opportunities to success in this exciting and rewarding industry.

If you would like to know more about apprenticeships at Shears Academy go to our website www. shearsacademy.co.uk or call Carole now on 020 8461 3504 or email her at: carole@shearsacademy.co.uk. You can also check us out on facebook: www.facebook.com/shearsacademy - you might ‘like’ us!

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Private bespoke courses are also available tailored to your success, simply call Dawn to book an appointment www.meridian-magazine.co.uk | 43

SHEARS ACADEMY

Then a government funded Apprenticeship could be for you!

Teaching as a change of career? Are you a graduate that is frustrated and bored by your current job? Do you want to challenge yourself and develop a new and valued skill set? Have you thought about teaching? Good honours graduates that have a few years of work after graduation are in demand for the schools direct (salaried) training scheme as they have important transferable skills that are valued by the teaching profession. This is a route in to teaching that suits those who have already valuable organisational and motivational skills that are looking for combining a passion for teaching with the need to earn a wage while training. Each year schools can bid for a number of places for specific subjects at secondary or in the primary age range and a subsidy is paid to the school to take on and train a teacher for a year. At the end of the training year, there is an expectation from the Government of employment of that teacher, but no guarantee of a job. Bromley Schools’ Collegiate is a consortium of Secondary and Primary schools in the local area that provide a large number of these places along with the tuition fee route and we are currently in the middle of recruiting for a September 2014 start.

Education

Generally schools that offer salaried training places are looking to train a high quality graduate that has the skills and confidence to learn how to teach ‘on the job’ with support and mentoring from an experienced outstanding classroom practitioner. The training is very much like an apprenticeship in that you are being shaped and developed by someone who knows how to teach already from a practical stand point. The training in the classroom is a mix of shadowing, observing and team teaching in the first few weeks building up to taking the responsibility for planning and teaching lessons within a short amount of time. As the term goes on, the trainee gradually builds up to a 50% timetable by Christmas and then eventually to around an 60-80% timetable by the end of their training. Training in the classroom is supported by tutorials and mentor sessions to develop the trainees understanding of whole-school issues and policies to ensure that they are familiar with the demands of being a professional teacher. If this route in to teaching is something that you are interested in, then please contact your local training provider, Bromley Schools’ Collegiate.

100% success rate in trainees securing a teaching post for September 2013

Outstanding Teacher Training Provider “I think this school-based training provided is excellent and I would recommend BSC to others” Trainee July 2013

• Infant, Primary, Secondary teacher training • Our School Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT) was awarded “Outstanding” status by Ofsted, recognising the highest quality in teaching training provision.

We are now recruiting trainees in all phases starting September 2014 Next teaching information event is at Bromley Library on 8th February 9:30 am to 12:00pm 020 8300 6566 | administrator@gradteach.co.uk | www.bscteach.co.uk

Bromley Schools’ Collegiate c/o Beaverwood School for Girls, Beaverwood Road. Chislehurst BR7 6HE

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THE POINTER SCHOOL ‘Preparing your child for the future’

A Nursery, Pre-Prep and Preparatory school Founded in Blackheath 1950 for Boys & Girls from 3 to 11 years (Where it “all” happens) First class academics with 100% success in 2012 and 2013 secondary examinations OFSTED inspection result: OUTSTANDING in all areas | Newly ISA Registered A Vibrant Christian ethos within the Christian tradition | A caring, joyful and stimulating learning environment Small class sizes Average 17, smallest 14, biggest 19 (2013) | Synthetic Phonics taught from Nursery Modern teaching resources i.e. interactive smart boards, computers, portable PC’s, iPad’s, IT Room etc. Two foreign Languages taught (Spanish & French) | Breakfast & After School Club for busy parents. 8.00-18.00 Freshly cooked food, in our on-site kitchen, using Organic produce direct from the farm in Suffolk Large number of outdoor activities & sports led by professional sport coaches. We use The Waterfront Leisure Centre Gym for Sports (bad weather – no problem!) | Swimming every week from Year 1 to Year 6 “The Brazilian Kickers” train our football team and supervise our playtimes Kidzcamp! Our holiday club to keep them busy at Christmas, Easter, Summer and all half term’ Extra-curricular activities include a lot of sporting activities & currently include: Archery, Horse Riding, Lego, Gymnastics, Mini-Tennis, Football, Chess, Cookery, Tae-kwon-do, Drama, Art and Craft, Rock Climbing, Designer-Bots, Ballet and Super Scientist and many more. New for 2014 (Mandarin) Chinese and German Extra Curricular Clubs, Choir & Music tuition, from the harp to the guitar!

INTERESTED? PLEASE CALL TO BOOK A FAMILY APPOINTMENT! Contact the School Secretary at 0208 293 1331 / 0208 858 7977 secretary@pointers-school.co.uk | www.pointers-school.co.uk

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Parental News

Lets get Physical together to issue the new guidance. It is the first time they have combined to issue UK-wide advice on exercise among the under-fives. For the first time government health experts are issuing advice to parents on exercise for children under five.They say the amount of time babies and toddlers spend strapped in buggies or car seats should be cut down. Instead, toddlers should be allowed to move around or be physically active for at least three hours a day. The new guidance reflects growing concern over children who do not exercise enough, which can be linked to obesity and brain development. Chief Medical Officers for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have come

From birth their recommendations include encouraging babies to move about and be active, for example on activity mats or swimming. They say that all under-fives should spend as little time as possible being restrained or sitting still except when they are sleeping. According to the Department of Health, recent studies suggest that only about 30% of children in England between the age of two and 15 get the recommended amount of exercise. Most UK pre-school children currently spend between two and two-and-a-half hours a day being

Get into the Swim Parents are being urged to get their kids swimming after international research revealed more under 5s know how to play a computer game than swim.The ASA, the English national governing body for all things swimming, is worried about the trend revealed in the AVG’s Digital Diaries global research especially as it includes children from the UK.

how to play a computer game but only two in ten know how to swim (20%). Jon Glenn, the ASA’s Head of Learn to Swim, said: ‘This new research is worrying because we urge parents to get their children in the water from six months old. Two to five years is the ideal age for children to learn to be confident and have fun in the pool.

The research asked mothers, all with children aged two to five years, to rank a list of computer and traditional life skills according to how early their children had mastered them.  It showed nearly six in ten children (58%) know

‘Drowning is also the third most common cause of accidental death for children in the UK and although most children learn to swim at primary school, this could be too late.’

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Day

For more information, and to register for a fundraising pack to host a Giant Wiggle near you, visit www.actionforchildren.org.uk/ giantwiggle or telephone 0300 123 2112 (lines are open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday).

46 | www.meridian-magazine.co.uk

active. ‘Active play’ is described as something like using a climbing frame or riding a bike, running or chasing games, swimming or skipping - anything that makes a child ‘huff and puff’. Professor Terence Stephenson, president of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, welcomed the guidance and said: ‘The early years shape every child’s future. ‘Physical activity is important from an early age - if a toddler spends too much time sitting passively in front of a TV then problems will be stored up for the future’. ‘These guidelines offer an excellent first step and an active childhood helps to lay the foundations for an adulthood with less risk of health problems such as obesity, heart disease and diabetes.’

London children centres encouraged to celebrate The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ anniversary with a ‘Giant Wiggle’ Leading charity Action for Children is teaming up with The World of Eric Carle™ and encouraging children’s centres, nurseries and groups for under-5s in the capital to host a Giant Wiggle event on The Very Hungry Caterpillar Day, 20 March. The day, celebrated annually, marks the start of the 45th anniversary celebration of the UK’s most read children’s book, and 2014 marks Action for Children’s 145th year. The event will bring together under-5s to wiggle along in giant caterpillar conga lines, encourage them to help others, and open up their imaginations through storytelling and creative activities. Ruth Sorby, partnership fundraising manager at Action for Children, said: ‘What better way to celebrate the anniversary of Eric Carle’s beloved book than by getting kids active and having fun? ‘By hosting a sponsored Giant Wiggle at your centre you’ll be helping us continue to support vulnerable children, young people and families in the heart of communities in London, and across the UK. If you would like to join in the celebrations on 20 March and organise a Giant Wiggle at your local children’s centre or nursery, then please get in touch and they’ll send you everything you need.’

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Little Stargazers Astronomy Club Did you know… • the earth could fit into the sun a million times? • the iron in our blood comes from the stars? • the night sky is always changing? • most of the bright dots you see on a clear night in the sky are stars but some are planets? • the moon is our nearest neighbour in space? • you are looking at a picture of the Horsehead Nebula right now?

People have always looked up and wondered about the night sky and all that shines and glows in it-the planets, stars, comets, nebulae and galaxies. Astronomy is the study of all these wonderful things and is one of the oldest sciences. It is one of the few sciences where amateurs, young and old, can really become involved in discoveries. If you look up into a clear night sky at this time of year - no need for a telescope - you can see the constellation of Orion. Pollox

Castor Aldebaran

Procyon Constellations Track Lines Orion Sirius If you follow the line of Orion’s belt you can find Sirius (the Dog Star) - the brightest star in the night sky. Now, if you were to use a telescope you would see that although it looks just like one star it is actually a system of two stars. If this gets your imagination going you too could become an amateur astronomer – join our club! Main Image: Horsehead Nebula, courtesy of NASA

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Launching soon! Little Stargazers Astronomy Club is the ground-breaking site to offer beginners and young astronomy enthusiasts a gateway to the stars and there will also be regular exciting activities to challenge even the keenest young astronomer. By joining, you will learn about: • the celestial objects and forces that surround us; • the amazing thinkers who have made many discoveries; • some of the mysteries that still remain; • the constellation stories; • blue giants, red giants, supergiants, yellow dwarfs, brown dwarfs and black dwarfs. These may not be what you think they are! • lots of new words. Did you know the word astronomy comes from the word astro, which the ancient Greeks used to describe the heavens, and -nomy, which is Greek for the study of something?. Astronomy therefore is the study of the heavens. National Astronomy Week – 1st-8th March 2014. This is held every few years to make all of us more aware of the exciting world of astronomy and to celebrate remarkable astronomical events. The special focus this year will be “Target Jupiter”. Throughout the week astronomical organisations and societies all over the UK will be holding a series of special events open to the public. Look out for events in your area! Little Stargazers Astronomy Club will be the ground-breaking site to encourage young astronomers to reach for the stars - learning through discovery! Register your interest at: www.littlestargazersastronomyclub.com to receive exclusive access to: • astronomy webinars; • a nightly astronomy calendar; • our online astronomy store; • exciting live news feeds; • local and national stargazing and astronomy events; • competitions; Happy stargazing!

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www.meridian-magazine.co.uk | 49

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Food & Drink

Food News THE PRINCE OF GREENWICH – WELL WORTH A VISIT The Prince is located on Royal Hill, just a short walk from central Greenwich. The downstairs bar area of this Victorian pub is spacious with a laidback feel to it that welcomes diners and drinkers alike. The upstairs function room is the ideal place for private parties or meetings and family gatherings. The food is freshly prepared on the premises, and the owners currently have several promotions that will tempt you to stay awhile:

Monday to Thursday: Happy hour from 4 to 8pm, all draught beers are just £3.00 and bottles of wine are £10.00. Every Monday 2 for 1: Enjoy a complimentary starter or dessert with your main course. Every Tuesday Steak and Wine: Wash down your steak with a free glass of wine Every Wednesday Beer and Burger: Order any one of our home cooked burgers and your first beer is on us. COMPETITION AQUA MEDITERRANEAN BAR AND GRILL BLACKHEATH Recently opened in Blackheath Village, Aqua showcases Chef Patron, Dasos Charalambos’s culinary flare and Mediterranean heritage. His dishes encompass the flavours and textures of the region in a heady and delicious fusion of Greek, Italian and French cuisine. Aqua offers a genuinely fresh taste of the Med, a lively atmosphere and simply excellent service. Everything is made from scratch and cooked on the premises, using only the best ingredients. Aqua’s menu offers an abundance of dishes and with such a comprehensive wine list, featuring fine Italian labels as well as some excellent new world wines and established favourites - there really is something for everyone, dining at Aqua is a must!

One lucky reader can win a meal for two, with a glass of bubbly on arrival and a bottle of house wine at the table. Choose from the set menu valid Sun-Thurs. Simply send your name and address and a daytime telephone number to Meridian magazine (Aqua Blackheath), 8 The Village, Charlton, SE7 8UD. Or email your details to competition@meridian-magazine.co.uk by Friday 28 February. RAISING FUNDS FOR A GOOD CAUSE Yak & Yeti has organised a charity event on Monday 20 Jan with the help of The Jimmy Mizen Foundation for the cancer research. All funds raised will be donated to the cancer research charity.

Also congratulations to Margaret, Grace Idowo & Sarah Jarmen for winning a Children & Young People Now Award with their release of the peace project taking the foundation’s message of peace hope & change to more than 1500 young people in 2013.

Every Sunday from 1pm Home Cooked Roasts: Beef, pork and vegetarian option. All our roasts are served with all the trimmings, Yorkshire pudding and homemade gravy. THE PRINCE OF GREENWICH, 72 ROYAL HILL, GREENWICH  SE10 8RT . PHONE: 020 8691 5369.

GREENWICH FOOD FEST The Greenwich Food Fest is a free one-day festival that will bring together a collection of London’s quality food and drink producers, an assortment of the city’s multicultural street foods and live music to celebrate London’s passion for great food.

The Food Fest, supported by Greenwich Hospital and the University of Greenwich, will be showcasing quality local talent and produce. This event will be raising money for the Greenwich Food Bank, a worthy charity helping to donate emergency food supplies to local people in need. For more information on the Greenwich Food Fest, go to www.greenwichfoodfest.co.uk.

We would like to thank all who participated for the success of this charity event.

WINE TASTING Virgin Wines, the major UK wine retailer, is returning to London on Thursday 27 February to host its first wine tasting event of 2014 in line with its philosophy, ‘Life’s too short for boring wine.’ The relaxed, fun-filled evening will take place at The Canary Wharf Hilton in London from 7-9pm.

Visitors will have the opportunity to sample up to 100 wines to sample from its exclusive range of boutique wine’s including top customer favourites and exciting new additions to the Virgin Wines portfolio. During the tasting, Virgin Wines’ team of Wine Advisors and Buyers will be on hand. Tickets for the tasting can be purchased at www.virginwines.co.uk/canary1 for £15 per person. Anyone who places an order on the day will receive the ticket price off the total price of their order, as well as a complementary bottle of red or white wine.

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Local Artists

Art in the Area Art Hub

is a vibrant, creative community of more than 100 studios. We have printmaking, ceramic and carpentry facilities based next to the Thames Barrier with the gallery and studios on Creekside in Deptford. The Art Hub Gallery holds regular events and exhibitions showcasing the work of our talented Art Hub members and designers as well as selected emerging artists. Details of upcoming events can be found on our blog, Facebook and Twitter. Art Hub’s bright, new studios of various sizes with stunning views over the Thames are available to hire at affordable, prices which include access to the free facilities. Contact Deb or Adrian on 07736 972700 or 0208 691 5140 www.arthub.org.uk Our artists are collaborating with Crisis in Bermondsey with the upcoming exhibition STREET.TRIP. TICK - a kaleidoscopic trip through the urban world. The exhibition is at Bermondsey Project Space, one of the biggest gallery spaces in South London from 7 – 16 March. www.bermondseyproject.com

Greenwich Printmakers Gallery

has been a fixture in Greenwich Market for 35 years and has an ever changing selection of original hand-made prints by 34 members. Along with a new selection of framed work ready to take home and put on your wall, there are also thousands of intaglio and relief prints to peruse at your leisure, with an artist on hand to help and advise you in your choice. The featured artists in February are Philip Solly and Maureen Sweeney. Philip’s highly detailed etchings of animals (above)and landscapes are showing until the 9 February including his curious cows, such as Nosy pictured here. These are followed by Maureen’s vibrant monotypes, etchings and screenprints of London and her travels in England and abroad.

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Opening the doors to the art scene SE London and NW Kent is a hotbed bed of creativity with new galleries opening, emerging artists and upcoming exhibitions. Clarendon Studios

is opening its doors again to students and artists in the area. A small independent Art Centre, the studios specialse in providing classes and courses in painting and drawing in a homely and relaxed atmosphere in the home of artists John Crossley and Rebecca Bergese in Lewisham. Clarendon Studios offers a variety of classes either for absolute beginners, the experienced or the well established. Students can develop first skills in drawing and painting with the encouragement to a confident, imaginative approach to selfexpression. The more experienced artist will find a constructive dialogue to help them expand ways of working. The studios also hold regular exhibitions of work by professional artists mainly living within the south east London area, many of national and international renown.

The Friends of Charlton House are planning their 6th annual art exhibition, which will take place in the Old Library in Charlton House on Friday 28 February and 1 & 2 March. The Opening Reception on Friday night from 7 pm– 9 pm is ticketed. On Saturday the exhibition is open 10am5pm and on Sunday 2pm–5 pm. As well as giving the opportunity for local artists to show and sell their work, this exhibition raises funds for CHART: The Charlton House Art Project helping to restore several works of art belonging to Charlton House.

John Crossley Once upon a time

The coming shows will feature the work of artists, Mali Morris R.A., Clyde Hopkins, Eric Moody, Sue Kennington, Tricia Gillman, Sharon Drew etc., brought together by shared concerns: the use of powerful exciting colour and the joy of making and will be curated by John Crossley.

So far they have restored one painting to the point of being able to hang it in Charlton House and are now hoping to start work on one of the other paintings. Richard Elmore’s ‘Greenwich Park’, Circa 1872. For more information or application form please contact Gill Cooper, the Chair of the Friends of Charlton House, on 020 8244 3013.

The Flood Gallery is situated in the heart of the world famous Greenwich Market specialising in contemporary limited edition screen printed gig posters, movies posters and art prints. Bespoke framing available with fast service and outstanding value. Open 7 days week 10am-6pm 8 Greenwich Market SE10 9HZ 02082690372 www.thefloodgallery.com info@thefloodgallery.com Glam Messiah 18 x 24” £40.00 by Justin Hampton Exclusive commission by The Flood Gallery, Limited edition silkscreen print of 150 Printed on 100lb white acid free paper. Signed & numbered by the artist.

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Gallery News - whats on and where? CANARY WHARF – ONE CANADA SQUARE

Sculpture at Work until 14 Mar A selection of beautiful works by highly acclaimed ceramicist Kate Malone. Transforming familiar, natural objects such as pumpkins, pineapples, gourds, nuts, seeds and fennels into articles of astonishing beauty and intricacy. Lobby, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, E14 5AB.

DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY

Hockney, Printmaker until 11 May Timed to coincide with the 60th anniversary of the artist’s first print this show celebrates David Hockney’s long and fruitful career as a printmaker. 10am-5pm. Dulwich Picture Gallery, College Road, Dulwich SE21 7AD.

GASWORKS

Late Barbarians  until 9 March Includes video, photography and sculpture by Juan Downey, Lili Dujourie, Sidsel Meineche Hansen, Matts Leiderstam and Chris Marker. Focusing on the notion of corporeal memory, the exhibition explores how shifting social codes and cultural values have been embodied in canonical Western European art and architecture. The Thinking Eye screening & presentation - Wed 26 February, 6.30–9pm . A rare screening of videos from Juan Downey’s The Thinking Eye series, including Information Withheld (1983), Shifters (1984), J.S Bach (1986) and Hard Times and Culture: Vienna, ‘fin de siecle’ (1990), introduced by writer and curator Julieta González. Gasworks, 155 Vauxhall Street, London. SE11 5RH. Free admission.  +44(0)20 7587 5202 / http://gasworks.org.uk / info@gasworks.org.uk

GREENWICH PRINTMAKERS

Current Exhibition until 9 Mar Featured artists: Maureen Sweeney (until 23 Feb), Peter Wareham (25 Feb-9 Mar). Tues–Sun, 10am–5.30pm. 020 8858 1569. Greenwich Printmakers Gallery, 1A The Market, SE10 9HZ.

HOUSE GALLERY IMAGE

Hello? I Love You? 14–28 Feb Ten years after graduating from Norwich School of Art, five artists specialising in print making, painting and illustration have come together to give you their take on the L word. Hello? I Love You Is an exhibition of work by artists Stephen Hennessy, Matthew Gent, Panna Parmar, Jhinuk Sarkar and Samuel Potts. House Gallery, 70 Camberwell Church Street SE5 8QZ.

VITRINE BERMONDSEY STREET

Witness Matter - Until 22 February A two-person exhibition from British artist Leah Capaldi and Lebanese artist Stéphanie Saadé, whose practices explore the performativity of objects and display. Using the gallery space as a platform to question the role of the individual, as ‘the watcher’ and ‘the watched’, and the object, as ‘prop’ and ‘sculpture’, the gallery will house a new installation by Capaldi and wall-based works by Saadé. VITRINE Bermondsey Street, 183-185 Bermondsey Street, London SE1 3UW (Tube: London Bridge) Wednesday – Friday 12-7pm, Saturday 12-6pm Free. Troubles for a French Horn and a Bongo - Until 1 March The Ister present the first solo exhibition in London of Gaillard & Claude. Part of a series of formal researches entitled ‘Le groupe et la famille’, questioning the relationships between different ensembles of individuals that swing from the personal to the impersonal and vice versa. VITRINE Bermondsey Square, Bermondsey Square, London SE1 3UN (Tube: London Bridge). Daily 24-hour.

WEST GREENWICH LIBRARY

Buggy Mothers and Other Runners - Until 8 Mar An exhibition of new paintings by Penny Matheson. Open everyday except Weds & Sun. Gallery Space, West Greenwich Library, Greenwich High Road, Greenwich SE10. If you would like your exhibition promoted in this section please contact Cheryl on 020 8319 0555.

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This months listings ONGOING

»» Art, Drama, Music, Language & Wine courses. One-to-one instrumental & vocal tuition for all age groups, plus a range of courses. The Conservatoire, Lee Road Blackheath, SE3. Info: 020 8852 0234 or info@conservatoire.org.uk »» Blackheath Decorative & Fine Arts Society. Stimulating lectures and intriguing outings. Fourth Thursday of the month except Aug and Dec 2.30pm. www.artsinblackheath.org.uk St Mary’s Hall, Cresswell Park, Blackeath SE3. »» Greenwich Decorative & Fine Arts Society. Monthly lectures at King William Court, Room 315, University of Greenwich, Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, SE10. 8pm on 2nd Monday of the month, except April & August. Refreshments from 7.15pm. 020 8852 6248 or www.gdfas.org »» Greenwich Market. Tues - Collectables & crafts. Weds - Food market with local producers & organic produce. Thurs & Fri - Antiques, collectables, arts & crafts. Weekends & Bank Hols - Arts & Crafts & Food. 10am-5.30pm, www. shopgreenwich.co.uk 020 8269 5096. Greenwich SE10. »» Guided Walk in Maryon Wilson Park. With an animal park & deer enclosure. 1.15pm & 3.30pm Animal tour every Mon Wed & Fri. Free. Maryon Wilson Park, Thorntree Road, Charlton, SE7. »» Kids Knitting & Crochet Workshops. Every Fri & Sat 11am-1pm. Special discount £8/2h session (quote:MERIDIAN) Book online at www. knitshop.co.uk or call 020 8144 4523, Boutique Outlet, 326 Lee High Road, Lee Green SE13 5PJ. »» Learn Tarot Cards. Develop your intuition and communication skills. Private tuition and workshops with an experienced reader. Email: marieclaire@tarotgift.com, www.tarotgift.com Tel: 07791 139 380, 020 8293 1737. »» Sing it out. Stress-relieving singing group for local people. All abilities catered for. First session FREE. Evening sessions Wednesday 8pm. Mother & baby sessions Thursday 1.30pm. Maze Hill area. E:toria@singitout.co.uk or call: 07747 794 321.

EVERY MON

»» Rotary Club of Lewisham & Penge. Local businessmen and women giving help locally, national and internationally. We meet at 7pm for a dinner, with speakers on a variety of subjects. Contact Peter Earll 020 8303 3361 or Alan Davis 020 8467 2032. Bromley Court Hotel, Bromley. »» Live Music & Open Mic. Jive jazz hosted by Dave Silk (bass) fusing legendary and experienced musos together with first time and amateur performers. In relaxed candlelit setting. Bar opens 8pm. £10 on the door. www.jazznights.co.uk. Mycenae Road, Blackheath SE3 7SE.

On stage A few words from Greenwich Theatre's Artistic Director, James Haddrell

Throughout its history Greenwich Theatre has occupied an important place in the community. Theatres bring people together in a way that television, radio or the Internet never can. While millions of people may sit down at the same time to watch the same high profile event on television, or a particular online youtube clip may attract countless viewers from around the world, there is still something special about sharing the experience of a live performance with others – and the 23,000 people who came to see Puss In Boots at Greenwich Theatre over the festive season provide the perfect example of that – but the community role of the theatre is not limited to gathering an audience together to watch a show. The theatre is also a company, an industry and a building that local people can get involved with. Alongside our free youth choir, run with funding support from Youth Music, this year we are developing our programme of performance workshops for older people in partnership with Montage Theatre Arts. Every Thursday older people from south London are invited to join us to try out a range of drama, dance and movement workshops. I spoke to some of the participants to find out what it was that attracted them to the weekly sessions. Lisa Pancucci said: ‘who’d have thought that Thursday mornings would become a time in the week in which I would journey in to the world of movement, voice, sounds, gobbledygook, human statues and not thinking! Each week I leave with something I didn’t know before. We are an inventive and supportive bunch, full of ideas, with more than our fair share of fun and laughter.’ Last year’s participants have now formed a permanent company and will be working throughout this season to create a new performance, set to be presented at Greenwich Theatre at the end of the course. New participants this year can try out weekly drop-in sessions and will also get a chance to perform on stage alongside last year’s company. Jakki Morris, another of last year’s participants, said ‘joining this group was one of the best decisions I ever made. You don’t have to do anything you don’t want to do, and you get to meet and make new friends and have a really good time.’

EVERY WED

»» Keep Fit & In Shape + Line Dancing. 10am 12 noon. Donation £5 to Cancer Research UK. 020 8852 7127. Kingswood Hall, Kingswood Place, off Dacre Park, Lewisham SE13. »» Woolwich Singers. A community choir. No audition required to join. The aim is to sing together and have fun! Call Wendy 07812 477 778. £2 per week, refreshments provided. 6.30pm-8pm. The Clockhouse Community Centre, Defiance Walk, Woolwich Dockyard, Woolwich SE18 5QL.

»» Blackheath Morris Men. Practice 8.45-10pm. St Marks Church Upper Hall, Greenwich South Street SE10. Free. Contact John on 020 8461 2440. www.blackheathmorris.com »» Rotary Club of Greenwich. For like-minded business people to meet & help the community. Fred Nunn 020 8858 6410. Charlton Football Club, Floyd Rd; Charlton SE7 8BL.

EVERY FRI

»» Lunchtime Concert. 1pm – 2pm. Free Charlton House, Charlton Rd; SE7 020 8856 3951. »» 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.

2ND SAT OF EVERY MONTH

»» Forest Hill Farmers’ Market. 9.30am-2pm. Forest Hill Pools, Dartmouth Road, SE23 3HZ. »» Woolwich Food Fight. Help fight hunger in our community. Lunches served from 12noon2pm. Wish to help this good cause contact 020 8317 6705 or www.ntcgchrisma.org. Chrisma Christian Centre NTCG, Anglesea Road, Woolwich SE18 6EG.

EVERY SUN

»» Blackheath Farmers’ Market. 10am-2pm. Blackheath Station Car Park; Blackheath SE3. »» Lazy Sunday Jazz Afternoons. From 4pm. 020 3601 8941. RLA’s at ‘The Old Loyal Britons’, 62 Thames Street, Greenwich SE10 9BX.

THIRD SUN OF EVERY MONTH

»» Eltham Farmers’ Market. 10am-3pm. Passey Place. Off Eltham High St, Eltham SE9.

EVERY SUN & 2ND TUES

»» Blackheath Quakers. Meeting for worship. 10.30am-11.30am every Sunday, and 1pm1.30pm on 2nd Tues of each month. Visitors are welcome. For more details, including room hire on 07908 587 695 or email quakerhall@ aol.com. Quaker Meeting House, Lawn Terrace, Blackheath SE3 9LL.

UNTIL 23 FEB 2014

»» Ice Rink, Canary Wharf. Skate under the soaring buildings of Canada Square on a glittering trail through fairy-lit trees. The rink-side retro-themed bar provides pre- or post-skating 50’s styled menu including mulled wine. Visit www. canarywharf.com for info and prices. Canada Square, Canary Wharf E14.

UNTIL 16 MAR

2ND TUES OF EVERY MONTH

»» The Blackheath & Greenwich Amnesty Group. Monthly meetings. 8pm. St. Margaret’s Church, Lee Terrace, Blackheath SE3.

EVERY THURS

Weekly drop-in sessions take place every Thursday from 1.303pm at the 10 Centre, 29 Tarves Way, London SE10 9JU and cost £5 per session. For more information about the group visit www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk or call Montage Theatre Arts on 020 8692 7007.

»» Pattern to Print. The story of David Evans, Crayford’s silk printers. Numbers are limited so please reserve your place in advance by calling 01322 621238. 10am-5pm. Free incld in admission cost to Hall Place – Adult £7, under 16 £5. Hall Place & Gardens, Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQ.

UNTIL 27 APR 14

»» War Story: Supplying Frontline Afghanistan. Brand new material recently collected in Afghanistan by the War Story team including photos, film, home videos and interviews reveals the challenges of supporting the armed forces on the frontline. 10am-6pm. 020 7416 5000. Imperial War Museum, Lambeth Road, SE1 6HZ.

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Listings continued TUES 11 FEB

»» Blackheath Town’s Women’s Guild. Talk on Childs Play by Dave Andrews. 2pm. Boys Brigade Hall, Reynolds Place SE3.

WED 12, 19 & 26 FEB

»» Tapestry Group. Enjoy sewing and would like to get involved with this project at St. Alfege. 10am-1pm. Caton Room, St Alfege Church, Greenwich Church Street, Greenwich SE10 9BJ.

THURS 13 FEB

»» Lunchtime Recital. Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance. 1.05pm. Free. St. Alfege Church, Greenwich Church Street, Greenwich SE10 9BJ.

Extreme Exploring The Horniman Museum and Gardens in Forest Hill invites budding explorers to step out of their comfort zone and embark on an expedition to some of the earth’s most hostile environments at Extremes: its new family friendly exhibition for 2014. Opening on Saturday 15 February, Extremes centres round five main environments – extreme heat, cold, aridity, permanent darkness and lack of oxygen – and the animals and plants that live there. It mixes hands-on experiences, including games and experiments with films, photographs and taxidermy animal specimens to show how super specialists from the plant and animal kingdoms have adapted to, and survive in, the most extreme conditions on earth.

SAT 15 FEB

»» Charlton Society. Talk on Birds and Wildfowl in our Parks by John Beckham. 2.30pm. Charlton House, Charlton Village, SE7. »» Tea Dance. The beautiful 1930s Art Deco Borough Hall is the perfect setting for a vintage afternoon of social dancing. Live music will feature a range of styles for ballroom, Latin, jive and sequence dancing. £8/£6. 2-4.30pm. 020 8293 9741 or visit www.greenwichdanceorg.uk. Greenwich Dance, The Borough Hall, Royal Hill, Greenwich SE10 8RE. »» Swing Night. Greenwich Dance resident artist, Temujin Gill will bring you into the vibrant world of Lindy Hop, the grandfather of all jive and swing dance forms. Workshop and live band. 8-11pm. £10/£7.50. 020 8293 9741 or visit www. greenwichdanceorg.uk. Greenwich Dance, The Borough Hall, Royal Hill, Greenwich SE10 8RE.

SAT 15-22 FEB

»» HMS Belfast: Cracking Codes. Have a go at ‘Jack-speak’, and learn the origin of navy slang and popular expressions from life at sea. 11am-1pm & 2-4pm. Open daily from 10am5pm. Adults £15.50 children under 16 Free. HMS Belfast, The Queen’s Walk, SE1 2JH.

SUN 16 FEB

»» Greenwich Wedding Fair: Calling all brides and grooms. Historic Charlton House opens its doors for another elegant wedding fair. From wedding stationery, to cakes to wedding dresses. 10.30am – 3.30pm. Free. Charlton House, Charlton Road, SE7 8RE. »» Ed Byrne – The Roaring Forties. The Irish stand-up comedian asks you to come and join him, as he truly comes of age with his cry: ‘I am in my forties. Hear me roar!’ 8pm. £23.50. www.

MON 17 FEB

»» Charlton & Blackheath Amateur Horticultural Society. Bring & Buy. 7.45pm. Visitors £1 per meeting. Charlton House Community Centre, Charlton Village SE7 8RE.

MON 17, 18 & 19 FEB

»» Dancing Dragons. Bring a traditional Chinese decoration to life by making a colourful dancing dragon. Drop-in workshop. 11.30-1.30pm & 2-4pm. Admission charges apply (activities free with entry). Sammy Ofer Gallery, Cutty Sark, Greenwich SE10.

TUES 18 FEB

FRI 14 FEB

»» Lates at Churchill War Rooms. Perfect your triple step with the London Swing Dance Society accompanied by DJs from the Vintage Mafia. Major Wade will be on hand to introduce you to Churchill’s underground headquarters. 6.30-9.30pm. £17.50. Churchill War Rooms, Clive Steps, King Charles Street SW1A 2AQ. »» Valentine’s Evening with the Stars. Enjoy a romantic evening of events at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, including a planetarium show about the romantic sights the night sky has to offer, a chance to do some stargazing through the 18-tonne Victorian telescope, and a glass of bubbly standing on the Prime Meridian of the world whilst enjoying the amazing view. 5.307.30pm & 6.50-8.50pm. Age 16+. £28. Advance booking on 020 8312 6608. Royal Observatory, Greenwich Park SE10. »» Dreamboats and Petticoats. Back by popular demand, the West End smash hit with all the greatest hit songs from the rock ‘n’ roll era. 7.30pm. £15-£29.50. Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley BR1 1HA.

atgtickets.com/bromley or call 0844 871 7620. Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley BR1 1HA.

»» Greenwich Industrial History Society. Greenwich Underground- more interesting than on top. Talk by Anthony Durham. 7.30pm. Nonmembers £1. The Old Bakehouse, Bennett Park, Blackheath SE3.

WED 19 FEB

The exhibition will then open daily at 10.30am until Sunday 2 November 2014. Ticket prices: Child £3.30; Adult £6.60; Family £16.50 (includes 10% voluntary Gift Aid donation). To book please go to www.horniman.ac.uk/extremes.

Blackheath Rugby Club, Blackheath, home of the first of the great independent rugby clubs, Fixtures for the remaining season for Blackheath Rugby 1st XV: February: Home Sat 8 Coventry (League) 3pm Away Sat 15 Hull Ionians (League) 2pm March: Home Sat 1 Cinderford (League) 3pm Away Sat 8 Richmond (League) 3pm Home Sat 22 Henley Hawks (League) 3pm Away Sat 29 Blaydon (League) 2.30pm April: Home Sat 5 Old Albanian (League) 3pm Away Sat 12 Wharfedale (League) 3pm Home Sat 26 Doncaster (League) 3pm Cost of entry to home matches are £12 for nonmembers, which includes a program. Children under 16 enter for free when accompanied by an adult. Blackheath Rugby club, Rectory Field, Charlton Road SE3 8SR.

Afternoon Tea Dance in aid of The Silver Line Afternoon Tea Dance on Tuesday 18 February from 1-3.30pm. Tickets £8.50 includes luxury afternoon tea, music & dancing. More info or tickets contact Hannah on 07944 651893. Silver Line is a free helpline providing info, friendship and advice on 0800 4 70 80 90.

»» Terrific Tiles. Be inspired by the many signs and symbols of the sea that decorate the buildings of the ORNC to paint a sea-themed tile to take home with you. 1-4pm. £2 per child. Drop in workshop. Clore Learning Centre, Discover Greenwich SE10.

THURS 20 FEB

»» Lunchtime Recital. Trinity Laban. 1.05pm. Free. St Alfege Church, Greenwich Church Street, Greenwich SE10 9BJ. »» A History of Silk: from China to Crayford in 5000 years. Learn about the history of silk and textile printing. Talk by former David Evans employee, Janet Hearn-Gillham. Free for Friends, annual pass holders and with entry tickets. Numbers limited book in advance on 01322 621238. 2.30pm. Hall Place and Gardens, Bourne Road, Bexley DA5 1PQ. »» Dark Tales. Spirits, burials and murderous intrigue – explore over 500 years of hidden history on our evening tour. 7-8pm. £15, incls a beer, glass of wine or soft drink. Ages 13+. Pre booking recommended. www.ornc.org. 020 8269 4747. Tour leaves from West Gate, Old Royal Naval College SE10 9LW.

THURS 20, 21 & 22 FEB

»» Pantomime: Sleeping Beauty. The Alexandra Players present this traditional panto. 20 & 21 8pm, 22 at 2pm & 6.30pm. £8/£7, Children under 16 £5 & family tickets £20.Box office 07867 627 987 or visit www.alexandraplayers.org.uk. The Alexandra Hal, Bramshot Avenue, Charlton SE7 7HX.

FRI 21 FEB

»» Blackheath Scientific Society. Eels and the Thames: Their numbers have drastically declined and are being monitored to find out why. Talk by Mr. Darryl Clifton-Dey. 7.45pm. Visitors £3. www.nss.btik.com Mycenae House, Mycenae Rd; Blackheath SE3 7SE.

FRI 21 & 22 FEB

»» Not Simply Dancing: does what it says on the tin. Choreography, movement, moving, journeying, framing, spacing and connecting will feature around the spaces of The Borough Hall prompting artists to provoke and audiences to respond. 7.30pm. £15/£12. 020 82939741. Greenwich Dance, Borough Hall, Royal Hill Greenwich SE10 8RE.

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Stunning Lullingstone

ullingstone Park Golf Course nestles in the heart of the stunning Lullingstone Country Park, located just 5 minutes from Junction 4 of the M25. It’s beautiful setting amid character woodland, parkland and open grassland, presents one of the most exciting and fun playing experiences in the most spectacular surroundings in Kent. Lullingstone offers a fantastic day’s golf for the seasoned player and beginner alike. Completing the playing experience on the 18-hole Castle Course and 9-hole Valley Course, Lullingstone also offers a Family Pitch & Putt, putting green, chipping area, pro shop, driving range, golf buggies for hire, golf lessons with a P.G.A. Golf Professional and full catering facilities for players and spectators alike at the Lodge. The Lullingstone team offer outstanding opportunities for individuals, groups and societies to experience a course that is considered to be one of the most rewarding, picturesque and great value destinations in the region. And to cap it all off, Lullingstone Park Golf Course are offering a mid-week special of 18 holes and a complimentary breakfast throughout February for just £16.95 – that really is one of the best deals in golf! Please call the Pro Shop on 01959 533793 to reserve your tee time.

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Listings continued SAT 22 FEB

»» Ramble. A 6-mile linear walk along the Thames, from Greenwich to London Bridge, passing the Brunnell Museum and the Sands Film Company. Meet 10.30am at Cutty Sark DLR Station. Lunch at either the Mayflower Pub or The Angel Pub, in Rotherhithe. Contact R.Sullivan on 020 8850 4417 for more info. New members welcome. Goldsmiths Rambling Club. »» Lunchtime Recital. Matthew Drinkwater. 1.05pm. Free. St Alfege Church, Greenwich Church Street, Greenwich SE10 9BJ. »» Gospel Concert. The internationally renowned London Adventist Chorale performs AfricanAmerican spirituals in the Chapel at the ORNC. Enjoy an evening of cappella singing conducted by Ken Burton. 7-9pm. £22 includes a pre concert drink. www.ornc.org/events or call 020 8269 4799. The Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich SE10. »» Fund-Raising Concert: In aid of Age Exchange & Community Library. Blackheath – Now & Then. A celebration by Simon and Jenny Standage, Neil Rhind plus two Conservatoire music students. 7pm Drinks in the Crypt, 7.45pm Concert. Book at www.friends-of-age-exchange.org.uk or leave contact details on 020 8852 5354.

The London Children’s Book Swap On Saturday 15 February, the Museum of London and Museum of London Docklands will take part in the third annual London Children’s Book Swap – an event celebrating reading for youngsters in the capital.

The museums join a number of other familyfriendly venues across London to encourage children to discover new stories and recommend their own favourite authors and illustrators to others.

SAT 1 MAR

MON 24 FEB

Children and their parents are invited to bring some of their old books to swap for a new read to add to their home library. There will also be the opportunity for kids to make their own bookmarks during the event that forms part of the Museum of London and Museum of London Docklands’ free ‘time travelling tales’ half term activities.

TUES 25 FEB

London Children’s Book Swap will take place at ; Museum of London on Saturday 15 February from 2.304.30pm. Museum of London, 150 London Wall, London, EC2Y 5HN Museum of London Docklands on Saturday 15 February from 11.30am-12.30pm. Museum of London Docklands, No. 1 Warehouse, West India Quay, London, E14 4AL.

»» Lunchtime Recitals. Presented by the Friends, of Blackheath Halls. Moricosta String Trio. Lucy Baker-Stockdale violin, Steven Burnard Viola, Jessica Burroughs cello. Bach Goldberg Variations. 1.10pm, Free with a retiring collection for the benefit of Blackheath Halls. www. blackheathhalls.com. 23 Lee Road, SE3 9RQ.

»» Fidelio Trio. The ‘virtuosic Fidelio Trio’ perform music composed specially for them following a series of workshops with Trinity Laban composition students. 7-8pm. Free. Peacock Room, King Charles Court, ORNC, Greenwich SE10.

WED 26 & 27 FEB

»» What the Ladybird Heard. Join the woolly sheep, the hairy hog, the fat red hen and the dainty dog in this colourful adventure for all the family. Wed: 1.30pm & 4.30pm, Thurs: 10.30am & 1.30pm. £12. www.atgtickets.com/bromley or call 0844 871 7620. Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley BR1 1HA.

THURS 27 FEB

»» Lunchtime Recital. Trinity Laban. 1.05pm. Free. St Alfege Church, Greenwich Church Street, Greenwich SE10 9BJ. »» Blackheath Decorative and Fine Arts Society. Author Caroline Shenton tells the gripping hour-by-hour story of the day in 1834 when our parliament burned and flames over Westminster could be seen at Windsor. Illustrations by Turner, no less! 2pm for 2.30pm. Visitors £5. www. artsinblackheath.org.uk. St Mary’s Church Hall, Cresswell Park, Blackheath SE3. »» Blackheath Quaker Meeting. Monthly talks in celebration of their 50th Anniversary. Climate change and health. By Dr Robin Scott. 7.30pm, light refreshments from 7pm. Blackheath Quaker Meeting House, Lawn Terrace SE3 9LL. »» Stan Webb’s Chicken Shack. Classic blues by the veteran guitarist and group, with roots in the British blues boom of the 1960s. £13/£12 adv. 020 8300 1385. 7.30pm. The Beaverwood Club, Beaverwood Road, Chislehurst BR7 6HF.

FRI 28 FEB

»» Bach to Baby: classical concert series for baby and you. With award-winning concert pianist and founder of Classics with my Baby, Miaomiao

Yu. ABCs of Classical Accordion featuring Miloš Milivojević, classical accordion. 10am – 11.30am. Adults £10. For more info visit www.bachtobaby. com. St Alfege Church, Greenwich Church Street, Greenwich SE10 9BJ. »» London Youth Wind Band Concert. 7.308.30pm. Detail from www.st-alfege.org. St Alfege Church, Greenwich Church Street, Greenwich SE10 9BJ. »» The Magic of Motown. Five-star performances, 36 massive Motown hits, dazzling dance moves and glittering costumes combine, authentically reviving hits from the period. 8pm. £24.50. www.atgtickets.com/bromley or call 0844 871 7620. Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley BR1 1HA.

Locale - Live Music Fri 14 Feb - Paris Ruel and Ayesha Pike duet Valentine’s Day accompanied by saxophone and bass (sets between 7-11) Ayesha Pike’s music is a true blend of jazz, soul, folk and blues. Ayesha was chosen as the only vocalist to perform in collaboration with the Duke Ellington Society and can be seen regularly performing in the ‘Late Set’ downstairs at Ronnie Scott’s.‘If you can have improvising in your genes, then she’s got it!’ - Ian Shaw Sunday Feb 23rd 1-4 - Freddy & Ella This Singer and Saxophone Duo play a blend of Jazz, Soul and Classic Pop. Both Freddy and Ella have performed shows at The Jazz Cafe and Ronnie Scott’s with Ella having performed a Live session for BBC Radio 2.‘Ella is a talented and vibrant young singer’ Jonathan Ross Friday Feb 28th 8-11pm - ‘Living Sounds’ Music comes from a gospel soul background with styles ranging from Rock, Pop, Funk,Soul and even 1920’s Swing. With a great band and relaxed style coupled with a voice that some have likened to John Legend, ‘Living Sounds’ is being sought after on a national and international basis more and more. Locale Restaurant, 1 Lawn Terrace, Blackheth Village, SE3 9LJ Tel: 020 8852 0700

»» Clear Up Day. Come and join the Friends of Maryon and Maryon Wilson Parks for one of their regular clear up days in the parks. 10am. Meet at Flamsteed Road entrance to Maryon Wilson Park. Black sack supplied, bring gloves. »» Stormy Seas & Other Stories. Cutty Sark sailed in all kinds of weather. Join the storyteller for tales of wind, waves and getting wet while you stay warm and dry inside the ship. 30mins duration. 11am, 12noon, 1.30pm & 2.30pm. Suitable for 3+. Admission charges apply (activities free with entry). Sammy Ofer Gallery Cutty Sark, Greenwich SE10.

SAT 1-2 MAR

»» Turner & the Sea. Royal Watercolour Society Weekdend Course: Light and Surface: Water, Boats, Buildings. Inspired by Turner’s maritime visions, painter and lecturer Paul Newman will lead this practice-based course in watercolour painting. 10am-5pm. £110/£99 members. www. rmg.co.uk. NMM Learning Space, National Maritime Museum, Greenwich SE10. »» Family Fun Weekend: Whatever the weather. Learn the lingo for weather at sea and design your own weather chart to take home. Drop-in Workshop. 11.30am-1.30pm & 2pm-4pm. Suitable for all ages. Admission charges apply (activities free with entry). Sammy Ofer Gallery Cutty Sark, Greenwich SE10.

SUN 2 MAR

»» Ahoy Captain! Meet Captain Woodget, Cutty Sark’s longest serving master, and hear tales of his voyages across the high seas. 11am, 12noon, 1.30pm, 2.30pm. Suitable for all ages. Admission charges apply (activities free with entry). Sammy Ofer Gallery Cutty Sark, Greenwich SE10. »» Woolwich Antiquarian Society. Talk on Plague City and Plague Village. Speaker Stuart Robinson. 2.15pm. Charlton House, Charlton SE7 8RE.

MON 3 MAR

»» Lunchtime Recitals. Presented by the Friends, of Blackheath Halls. Aubert Trio. Ross Newton Clarinet, Kalina Dimitrova cello, Warwick Hewson piano. Trios by Beethoven & Faure. 1.10pm, Free with a retiring collection for the benefit of Blackheath Halls. www.blackheathhalls. com. 23 Lee Road, SE3 9RQ.

WED 5 MAR

»» University of Greenwich: History Papers. Northern Nature and Exploratory Science c.17901830 by Dr. Angela Byrne. Part of a series of free monthly talks by historians from the University of Greenwich. 6.30pm. Refreshments provided. Greenwich Heritage Centre, Artillery Square, Royal Arsenal, Woolwich SE18 4DX.

www.meridian-magazine.co.uk | 59

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Property

Luxury Waterside Living Unprecedented sales success following the launch of The River Gardens in Royal Greenwich

London & Regional, together with Jones Lang LaSalle have received unprecedented interest following the launch of Greenwich’s most sought after residential development – The River Gardens. The scheme launched to the UK market last September with only the last remaining Premier Apartments now available in Phase 1, Granite Wharf Apartments. Commenting on the success to date, Max Wilkinson, Director – Residential investment and development at Jones Lang LaSalle said: ‘Jones Lang LaSalle are delighted with the unprecedented levels of domestic interest received for apartments at The River Gardens. The scheme has proved particularly attractive to buyers due to the spacious nature of the apartments of which a large proportion benefit from river views and outside space. Additionally, residents will benefit from 24 hour concierge, CCTV security, a 15m swimming pool, gymnasium and spa area, as well as a basement storage cage included in the price. Completion of the project is anticipated in spring/summer 2014, which has also been an attractive draw to local buyers.’ The River Gardens is a vibrant new quarter stretching 300m along the banks of the River Thames offering contemporary luxury waterside living set within a beautifully landscaped 12-acre site. Designed by internationally acclaimed award winning architects Squire & Partners and inspired by Sir Christopher Wren’s Old Royal Naval College and the famous squares of Belgravia, the development is a collection of contemporary buildings featuring cutting-edge design with an emphasis on space and natural light, both inside and out. Positioned elegantly on the infamous elbow of the River Thames, the River Gardens has been designed around 4 carefully considered beautifully landscaped garden squares facing the impressive London skyline, looking out over the financial centre of Canary Wharf, with views stretching from the O2 Arena in the East, to the City of London and beyond. The contemporary architecture of the development features apartments of exceptional scale, each one maximising the impressive river front views with floor to ceiling windows and generous glass balconies providing residents with a tranquil yet inspiring environment in which to live.

cafes, bars, restaurants and retailers that add ambiance to this exciting new vibrant environment. The development also provides residents with extensive secure underground car parking and ample bike parking. Peter Murray, Lead director – residential investment and development at Jones Lang LaSalle said: ‘The River Gardens at Royal Greenwich are a collection of unique contemporary residences that would make both an excellent investment opportunity and also a great home for people looking for a village environment within London. Greenwich is one of London’s most enviable postcodes, with Jones Lang LaSalle predicting 8% house price growth year-on-year as far as 2016.’

Granite Apartments, with only a few Premier residences now available, comprises 131 1, 2 and 3 bedroom luxury residences, which are the largest in Royal Greenwich. Each apartment has been finished to the highest specification with Italian custom designed kitchens, large en-suite bathrooms with under floor heating, a video entry system and pre-wired satellite TV connection designed to create sophisticated contemporary London living maximising both space and light throughout. Prices start at £305,000 leasehold. The River Gardens will boasts excellent leisure facilities that include Contact: The River Gardens marketing suite on +44 (0)20 3747 6111 or www.therivergardens.com a private gym, tennis / games court and swimming pool, a dedicated concierge, an on-site business centre and crèche, together with Location: Banning Street, SE10. London & Regional with Jones Lang LaSalle.

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