South West London September 2019 Back to School Primary Times by Alison Watson

What’s On Where

39,000 COPIES FOR FAMILIES OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN

Image credit: Manuel Harlan

South West London

CHOOSING YOUR NEW SCHOOL • DAYS OUT • COMPETITIONS

SEPTEMBER 2019 2 SEPT - 13 OCT 2019 ISSUE 122

DAILY EXPRESS

Circus1903.com GREAT FAMILY PRICES | ROYAL FESTIVAL HALL

Dear Readers Primary Times in South West London 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG Tel: 020 8318 0400 Email: office@primarytimes.biz Website: www.primarytimes.co.uk Twitter: @PT_LondonSandE Instagram: @primarytimesse Publishing Editor: Peter Watson Sales: Andrew Langridge, Gill Pearce, Lola Olowofela & Catherine Dillon Listings: Hayley Hughes Production: Alison Watson Office Manager: Chris Blower Administrators: Claire Wood, Tina Love & Alina McCrone Editorial Assistant: Izy Cheesman Proof Reader: Catherine Draisey Social Media: Rachel Benson Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in primary, infant, junior and middle schools throughout the boroughs of Kingston upon Thames, Merton, Richmond upon Thames, Sutton & Wandsworth. Its aims are to inform families and children of current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses and attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or joining in the competitions which we run. Its aims are to inform families and children of current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses and attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or joining in the competitions which we run. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically based material whatsoever. We also undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best interests of young children. The opinions expressed in either the editorial or advertisements within this publication are not necessarily those held by the editor or publisher. While we take great care with the compilation of information within this magazine, neither the editor nor publisher will accept any liability for the accuracy of the editorial or advertising contained within the publication. We welcome listings being sent to us for inclusion in our What’s On section. Free listings are dependent on available space and we cannot guarantee to print all the listings we are sent. Please send them to listings@primarytimes.biz. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools for their assistance in distributing the magazine and for their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible. Please support their endeavours when and where you can. No part of this magazine, including the advertisements within it may be reproduced, in part or in whole, without the express written permission of the Publishing Editor. Primary Times is currently publishing over 2.5 million copies per issue under franchise licences throughout England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Primary Times South West London is operated under franchise licence.

Welcome to the first issue of the new school year. I hope you all enjoyed the summer holidays and are ready for this term. For all the parents and children who are new to school let me explain who we are. Primary Times is the free What’s On, Where to Go,Things to Do magazine that is distributed via the book bag two weeks before any school holiday plus this Back to School issue. We publish seven times a year in 59 different regions around the country and are totally free to our readers. We’re full of everything families with primary aged children are interested in. We always have bursting full pages of listings on what to do during the school holidays. We publish a roundup of local theatre and cover local news. We have lots of suggestions for out of school activities. We have lots of competitions to enter and as we were told recently, “we are the parents’ bible”. Just as we’re welcoming our new readers, now is a busy time for Years 5 and 6 getting ready to move onto secondary school. Our comprehensive guide to choosing your new school will be invaluable with open days and other information. Please do check the open day dates in our tables. It takes a long time to get all the information and we start early, so changes can happen. Even though it may seem a long way off, parents of younger children will also find it of interest - I know from experience it’s never too early to start thinking about the next stage! We’ll be back in the week of 14 October covering the half term break - look out for spooky events, firework dates, our panto feature and lots more.

Contents

inside this issue.... Latest News..............................4 What’s On.................................6 Autumn Adventures................. 7 Family Theatre................................8 Choosing Your New School....... 13 Out of School Activities...........25 Competitions...........................29 All Your Own Work!................. 31

Peter and the Primary Times Team This magazine is audited by BPA Worldwide 39,270 copies - August 2018.

The Laugh Out Loud Book Awards 2020 The Laugh Out Loud Book Awards (the Lollies) celebrate the best and funniest children’s books in the UK and Ireland, voted for by children.Voting is now open for the Lollies 2020 – it’s time to get reading and voting for your favourites! Michael Rosen, children’s novelist, poet and former Children’s Laureate, chaired the judging panel which selected the shortlist from nearly 120 titles submitted by children’s publishers. Having long championed humorous books for children, Michael told Primary Times, “Anyone around children looking for books to have them giggling and laughing over and over again, these 12 books will do the job. Funny books are so important because they draw you through, and you have a wonderful time and feel good. What could be better than that?” The Lollies are awarded in three categories: Best Laugh Out Loud Picture Book, Best Laugh Out Loud Book for 6-8 year olds and Best Laugh Out Loud Book for 9-13 year olds. The winning book in each category will be decided solely by children’s votes, with schools and parents encouraged to help kids get involved and voting via the Lollies website,

www.scholastic.co.uk/lollies, or via the Lollies PopJam channel. Voting is open to teachers and their pupils, parents and children. The Lollies website will be open for voting until 13 December 2019 at www.scholastic.co.uk/lollies. Teachers can cast up to 35 votes on behalf of their class for each category. The winning books will be announced in early 2020.

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Latest News

Kids Club at Southside Shopping Centre

For the New School Year September 2019-2020

Maths and English after school classes with a focus on the 11 Plus. We also offer classes for students from Year 4 who simply wish to boost their confidence at school.

3 easily accessible locations (Richmond, Kingston, Sutton) Small groups School-aligned curriculum Highly experienced Tutors - All DBS certified Connect with us

Call or BOOK ONLINE! For full details visit our website or call:

0208 274 9489

peepaltreelearning.com

Learn inside the heart of London Hands-on workshops. Guided tours. Discover the science, history, engineering and architecture behind the world-famous icon.

New KS1 and SEN workshops now available

#insidetowerbridge

Book your school trip at towerbridge.org.uk/learning 2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

What’s On

What’s On Your family diary for September and October Ongoing Daily

Learn Inside the Heart of London, Tower Bridge, SE1 2UP Hands-on workshops, guided tours. Discover the science, history, engineering and architecture behind the world-famous icon. New KS1 and SEN workshops now available. Book your school trip at towerbridge.org. uk/learning

Until 7 Sep

Space Chase Summer Reading Challenge, Various Libraries across South London Read books, have fun and collect prizes! Ideal for children aged 4-11. For more details www. summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

Until 8 Sep

Explore this warship and see what life was like aboard this floating city as you weave your way through the bowels of the ship and climb up and down ladders across all 9 decks. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.iwm.org.uk

BBC Springwatch Experience, WWT London Wetland Centre, SW13 9WT

Underbelly Festival 2018, Southbank, SE1 8XX

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a wildlife presenter? Could you be the next Michaela Strachan or Chris Packham? Head to the Lodge, grab a cue card, learn from the information provided and present your wildlife knowledge to camera, whilst sitting on a Springwatch-inspired sofa. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.wwt.org.uk

First Sat of the Month

Big Family Press, South London Gallery, Peckham, SE5 8PR

2-5pm. Enjoy family fun as you learn how to riso print, share stories and make a DIY publication for the archive using a range of exciting materials sourced from the local area. Ages 5-12. For more details visit www.southlondongallery.org

Last Sat of the Month

Kids Club, Southside Shopping Centre, Wandsworth, SW18 4TF With fun educational themes, you are invited to take the kids along to have lots of fun whilst learning too. There is also a visit from Sammy the Southsidasaurus guaranteed too. For more details visit www. southsidewandsworth.com

Every Sunday

Sunday Stories, Kew Gardens, TW9 3AE

1pm, 2pm and 3pm. Settle down for storytime and learn about the fascinating relationship between people and plants. These stories will bring to life some of the most amazing collections. See the plants grow for yourself in the Temperate House. For more details visit kew.org or call 020 8332 5655.

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

”

A Pirate’s Life for Me, The Historic Dockyard Chatham, ME4 4TE

A perfect day out for families to explore a variety of Pirate collections exploring the history and impact of Pirates in children’s culture through displays including toys, books, costumes, illustrations, games and photographs. For more details visit thedockyard.co.uk

Explore HMS Belfast, SE1 2JH

“

I saw your event in Primary Times.... Please mention you saw the event listed in Primary Times

Until 29 Sep

The festival will bring the best in live circus, comedy, cabaret and family entertainment to the heart of London. There’s an amazing line-up of shows, international street food and a true festival atmosphere. To view a full programme of events and for tickets visit www.underbellyfestival. com

Until 30 Sep

What If? Tower Bridge, SE1 2UP

10am-4pm. Part of the City of London’s architectural arts programme, Fantastic Feats: The Building of London, Tower Bridge is working with Bermondsey-based All Things Studio to create an outdoor Victorian diorama offering passers-by a glimpse into some of the alternative river crossing designs presented to the City of London’s special committee in 1876.Visit www. towerbridge.org.uk

Totally Thames Festival, Various Locations

Totally Thames brings the river to life with a month-long season of river-related events - art, music, open days, family fun, talks, walks and boats galore. For more details and to view the full programme of events visit www.totallythames.org

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have the latest details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure they haven’t changed

Discover London’s Wildlife Secret, The Recess at No.1, London Bridge, SE1 9BG

Part of Totally Thames. Join ZSL in a virtual reality journey beneath the surface of the Thames. Take the thrilling journey and discover the incredible wildlife whilst challenging your friends and family to see who can discover the most species. For more details visit www.totallythames. org

Until 2 Oct

Kitchen Garden Tour, Ham House and Garden, Richmond, TW10 7RS (Selected dates) 2.30-3pm. Discover more about the history of the 17th century kitchen garden and the herbs and vegetables. Admission charges apply. For more details and to book visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hamhouse-and-garden

Until 19 Oct

Riverside and Scenic Walk, Ham House and Garden, Richmond, TW10 7RS

(Selected dates) 11am-1pm. Richmond has been an important place for centuries and this guided walk will show you more of this fascinating history. The walk will chart the history of the river in the 17th century and its connection and influence on Ham House. Children welcome. For more details visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/ham-house-andgarden

Until 27 Oct

Brick Wonders and Plonk Crazy Golf, Horniman Museum and Gardens, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ

In this exhibition discover amazing wonders from around the world made entirely from LEGO® bricks. Build your imagination at the interactive play areas, and don’t miss two special models of Horniman icons created especially for the show. Plonk are bringing back buckets of fun with their most exciting 9 hole family-friendly extravaganza. Charges apply. To book visit www.horniman. ac.uk

Chihuly at Kew: Reflections on Nature, Royal Botanical Gardens Kew, Richmond, TW9 3AE

Iconic artist Dale Chihuly will exhibit his luminous glass artworks, featuring pieces never seen before in the UK. A family trail booklet will be available to children and their families at weekends and school holidays. For more details and a programme of events visit www. kew.org/kew-gardens

What to Look For In the Garden, Garden Museum, SE1 7LB

Take a wander down the garden path with Ladybird Books this summer, in a nostalgic exhibition celebrating the iconic illustrated books and the impact they made in teaching children about the natural world. The instantly recognisable artwork from the ‘golden age’ of Ladybird Books will be discovered by a whole new generation of children.Visit www.gardenmuseum. org.uk

Until 31 Dec

Bird Feed with a Warden, WWT London Wetland Centre, SW13 9WT (Saturday and Sundays only) 3pm. Join wardens as they feed the beautiful water birds from around the globe. Discover more about WWT’s conservation work and the birds they are helping to save from extinction. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.wwt.org.uk

Explorers Trail, Marwell Zoo, Winchester, SO21 1JH

Become a Wild Explorer with fun for the whole family. Collect stamps as you explore the trail that leads to Marwell’s favourite animal enclosure. For more details visit www.marwell.org.uk

September

Thurs 5 – Tues 10 Sep Zippos Circus, Eel Brook Common, SW6 4SG

The new, larger, bigger, better and brilliant Zippos Circus comes to Fulham. Charges apply. For more details, timings and to book visit www. zippos.co.uk

Thurs 5 – Sun 15 Sep

Butterfly Biosphere, Grosvenor Square, Mayfair, W1K 2HP

10am-7pm.Visitors will be invited to embrace a moment of Mayfair mindfulness by getting up-close with an abundance of the winged wonders, observing them hatching, feeding and fluttering among the trailing fruit and foliage-filled Insta-dream iridescent backdrop. For more details visit www. mayfairandbelgravia.com/butterflies

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 12...

Fun Days Out with the Family

While you’re at WWT London, there are also many autumn activities to try. From 19 October to 3 November, go pond dipping, make your own mini leaf parachute and go bird watching to learn about the amazing birds that turn up on site – who knows what you’ll see?

October Half Term at Morden Hall Park Autumnwatch Experience with WWT

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a TV presenter or wildlife researcher? Well now you can find out, with WWT London’s new Autumnwatch Experience. Take on the role of a wildlife researcher and set off into the wild exploring the award-winning nature reserve. Discover fascinating wetland wildlife and conservation facts, and then have a go at being a TV presenter at the centre’s Autumnwatch set. The interactive space at the London Wetland Centre is set up with everything you need to become a wildlife presenter, including real wildlife footage. Use your own research plus the species fact sheets to create your script, then get ready to film. Get comfy on the sofa, grab your notes and lights, camera, action! Impress everyone with your presenting skills by sharing your video with the hashtag #WWTwildlifepresenter. If you prefer to stay behind the scenes you can take the director’s chair and hold up cue cards for your friends.

Autumn Adventures

Go and carve your Halloween pumpkin at Morden Hall Park this half term. Pick your pumpkin, create your crazy carving and light it with an LED tea light. Just drop in to the Stableyard from Saturday 19 to Wednesday 23 October to make your spooky Halloween pumpkin and let them clean up the mess. There is a new trail full of family fun at Morden Park from Saturday 19 October to Sunday 3 November. Pick up your trail at the Garden Centre and look out for clues to help the scarecrows to find what they’ve lost. As the weather gets colder, it’s the perfect excuse to grab your wellies and get out of the house for an entertaining outdoor experience. Make sure to also try out the Survival Adventure Game. Can your 8 to 16 year-olds navigate through the park, working as a team to solve problems and collect survival equipment before the time runs out? Have a go on Thursday 24 or Friday 25 October. Booking is essential. As autumn arrives, warm up at one of the park’s two cafes and indulge yourselves with some handmade food or browse in the garden centre for that perfect gift. All money raised helps look after Morden Hall Park. To find out more details and prices and book tickets, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park. Photo credit: Joanna Manning

experience Swap your sofa for our Autumnwatch sofa! Have a go at being a TV presenter and wildlife researcher this autumn.

Celebrate your child's special day with us

London Wetland Centre

Wildlife birthday parties at Morden Hall Park Book our wildlife experts for bug hunting, bird watching, nature art and more. Choose your activity to make your child's next birthday party a truly memorable experience! For more details call us on 020 8545 6853 or email: mordenhallparklearning@nationaltrust.org.uk

Based on a BBC Programme

Find out more at wwt.org.uk/london

nationaltrust.org.uk/Morden-Hall-Park

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Family Theatre

Joined by strong men to contortionists, acrobats to musicians, knife throwers, high wire and much more, CIRCUS 1903 will amaze and captivate audiences of all ages. CIRCUS 1903 is in town for three weeks only. Book now at www.southbankcentre.co.uk to avoid disappointment!

Billionaire Boy at Richmond Theatre

The adaptation of David Walliams’ bestselling story Billionaire Boy is playing at Richmond Theatre from 30 October to 2 November. This story of friendship, childhood and what money really means is one that the whole family will enjoy.

CIRCUS 1903 at the Southbank Centre

Experience all the thrills and daredevil entertainment of a turn-ofthe-century circus when CIRCUS 1903 returns to the Southbank Centre this Christmas. A range of dazzling new acts from around the globe will accompany favourites from last year, transporting audiences back to the wonders of the Golden Age of Circus. Undoubtedly the most charming puppet elephants on any stage, created by the awardwinning team behind War Horse, Queenie and Peanut, will return, alongside Ringmaster Willy Whipsnade. New for 2019, the Wheel of Death is a ginormous rotating apparatus featuring large metal hoops at each end in and on which three performers will carry out eye-popping acrobatic skills whilst the wheel is rotating.

Joe Spud is twelve years old and the richest boy in the country. He has his own sports car, two crocodiles as pets and £100,000 a week pocket money! But what Joe doesn’t have is a friend. So he decides to leave his posh school and start at the local one, but things don’t go as planned for Joe and his life becomes a rollercoaster as he tries to find what money can’t buy. This is the third collaboration between David Walliams and the award-winning Birmingham Stage Company, following the Olivier nominated Gangsta Granny and the critically acclaimed production of Awful Auntie. Billionaire Boy started life as a David Walliams novel for children in 2010 and was filmed for the BBC in 2016. It looks set to be the biggest and brightest show yet. To buy tickets for Billionaire Boy at the Richmond Theatre and for more information visit www.atgtickets.com. Photo credit: Mark Douet

HHHH ‘A THEATRICAL MIRACLE’ THE TIMES

THE LION THE WITCH & THE WARDROBE BASED ON THE NOVEL BY C.S. LEWIS

12 WEEKS ONLY

FROM 9 NOV

SCHOOL GROUPS 10+ TICKETS REDUCED TO £22.50 FOR TUESDAY – THURSDAY PERFORMANCES EXC CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS, EMAIL GROUPS@BRIDGETHEATRE.CO.UK TO RESERVE YOUR GROUP TODAY.

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Returning to London for a third successive year, and starring TV and radio presenter Rylan Clark-Neal as ‘The Critic’, the smash-hit Nativity! The Musical is back with more performances than ever before. Simon Lipkin reprises his critically acclaimed role as ‘Mr Poppy’ direct from starring in ‘Nativity Rocks’. Feel-good, funny and full of festive joy, the smash-hit musical was adapted for the stage by Debbie Isitt, the creator of the much-loved films. Featuring all of your favourite sing-a-long hits from the movies including Sparkle and Shine and Nazareth, this is

There is also deep educational value in these concerts. Countless studies have shown that exposure to classical music at an early age, not to mention playing a musical instrument, is good for brain development. Indeed, at any age music is beneficial in all kinds of ways, from reducing stress to improving general mental health. Small wonder that so many parents say how enjoyable the concerts are for them as well! Go along to St Martin-in-the-Fields and join in a journey of discovery, imagination and inspiration on Saturdays 21 September and 19 October at 4.30pm. Concerts continue monthly through to March 2020.

Family Theatre

Nativity! The Musical

the must-see show this Christmas! So book now and go along to the Eventim Apollo for some mayhem in Bethlehem! Further star casting to be announced! Nativity! The Musical runs at the Eventim Apollo, London from 11-29 December. For more information visit www.nativitythemusical.com

Mini Maestro Family Concerts at St Martin-in-the-Fields This popular series of classical music events, enjoyed by children and parents alike, enters its thirteenth season this September, with monthly concerts up until March. Each concert is a smorgasbord of musical fun as they encourage the children to sit close to the orchestra, explore stories in the music, sing and clap along - and even conduct! Budding performers are invited to become Mini Maestro Musicians and play alongside the orchestra, and there’s always an opportunity to meet the friendly musicians at the end.

LONDON’S FAVOURITE FAMILY CHRISTMAS MUSICAL RETURNS FOR A THIRD SENSATIONAL YEAR!

WHATSONSTAGE I BIRMINGHAM MAIL

WHAT’S ON BIRMINGHAM

MUSICAL THEATRE REVIEW

as The Critic

as Mr Poppy

11 – 29 DECEMBER

eventimapollo.com | eventim.co.uk

nativitythemusical.com

FULL STAR CASTING TO BE ANNOUNCED SEP 10 TH. CHECK WEBSITE FOR DETAILS. Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Family Theatre

Richmond Theatre Box Office: 0844 871 7651 30 Oct – 2 Nov

Billionaire Boy

Joe Spud is 12 years old and the richest boy in the country! He has his own sports car, two pet crocodiles and £100,000 a week pocket money! But he doesn’t have a friend. A show the whole family will enjoy.

Rose Kingston

Box Office: 020 8174 0090 29 Oct – 3 Nov

Oi Frog & Friends!

Colour House Theatre Merton Abbey Mills

Box Office: 020 8542 5511 7 Sep – 10 Nov

Robin Hood and Maid Marian

(Selected dates) Hidden away in Sherwood Forest, Robin Hood, Maid Marian and their trusted Merry Men, battle the evil Sheriff of Nottingham and his sidekick Guy of Gisbourn.

Michael Frayn Theatre Kingstonupon-Thames

www.michaelfrayntheatre.com 19 Oct

The Princess and the Frog

After sell-out tours around the UK, Let’s All Dance is delighted to return with this beautiful, classical ballet to charm audiences young and old. Ages 2-9.

New Wimbledon

Box Office: www.atgtickets. com/wimbledon 23 – 26 Oct

The Wizard of Oz

This classic, family-friendly tale features munchkins, rainbows and all your favourite songs from the timeless 1939 film starring Judy Garland.

Omnibus Theatre Clapham

Box Office: 020 7498 4699 24 – 27 Oct

Emily Rising

Emily wakes up one bright autumn morning to find that her feet can’t touch the ground, and no one can understand why. She’s not scared at all – it’s fun being high up. Ages 7-11. 10

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

OSO Arts Centre SW13

Box Office: 020 8876 9885 21 Sep

OSO Kids’ Glitter Ball: Calypso Crazy!

Take your children to the OSO for the launch of the Glitter Ball Club, where they can dance and party to live music played by the Merry-Makers Steel Band.

21 Sep

Comedy Club 4 Kids

(Also 20 Oct) Since 2005, the Comedy Club 4 Kids has been getting the best standups and sketch acts from the international circuit to do their thing for children (aged 6+) and their families.

Puppet Barge Richmond

Box Office: 020 7249 6876 Until 5 Oct

Spirit

Go along on a captivating journey of ordinary people’s otherworldly experiences. The puppetry moves from delicate marionette to table top and from object theatre to shadows.

Until 6 Oct

The Insect Circus

Forget reality and become immersed in the strange and beautiful world of the Insect Circus. Beetles and grasshoppers, wasps and dragonflies demonstrate their dexterity with great skill and humour.

Join Frog, Cat and Dog in this new action-packed stage adaptation of Kes Gray and Jim Field’s bestselling books. Songs, puppets, laughs and more rhymes than you can shake a chime at. Ages 3+.

Motherland. Dark government forces are at work. Spies and surveillance are everywhere, and the truth is difficult to discern. Ages 9+.

Albany Deptford

Box Office: 020 8692 4446 8 Sep

Plot 17: Work-inProgress

Underground hip-hop hero, Kenny Baraka - the Green Man needs your help to make the city green. In the Albany garden hear the Green Man’s story and music to help complete his mission. Ages 7+.

15 Sep

Audition

Box Office: 020 8333 4457 22 – 26 Oct

Combining contemporary circus, dance-theatre, fierce acrobatics and stunning visuals this story explores how people act individually and with others in extreme circumstances. For all ages.

Five Little Monkeys

20 Sep

TARA Arts Earlsfield Join Sue the Zoo Keeper as she struggles to get mischievous Little Monkey to bed on Christmas Eve and discovers that numbers are all around us. Ages 2-6.

The Bridge Theatre SE1 Box Office: 0843 208 1846 9 Nov

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Errol’s Garden: Workin-Progress Reading

Errol dreams of having a garden of his own but turning his rooftop into one is a huge task. He invites his neighbours and after a great community effort he has the garden he longs for. Ages 3+.

21 – 22 Sep

We’re going on a

Bear Hunt Based on the novel by C Enjoy A family go on an S Lewis, step through expedition of a the wardrobe this the show! lifetime, what will winter into the And don’t they find? Join them magical kingdom forget to say in this entrancing of Narnia for the you saw it in puppetry production most mystical of Primary with music and fun. adventures in a Ages 2+. faraway land. Age Times! 6+ 13 Oct

Unicorn SE1

Box Office: 020 7645 0560 8 Sep

15 Minutes Live

A one-time only event featuring new short radio plays performed live with an onstage band. Ages 8-12.

18 Sep – 27 Oct

Anansi The Spider

In celebration of Black History Month, classic West African and Caribbean tales about Anansi, the original trickster and the master spinner of yarns are brought vividly to life. Ages 3-7.

26 Sep – 27 Oct

Maggot Moon

In a sinister 1950s Britain, the country is under the rule of the violent and oppressive

Hocus Pocus

Voyage into the unknown in this dreamlike family show. Strange shapes, illuminated by light, performers and stage trickery will leave room for the imaginations of children to soar. For ages 7+.

Canada Water Culture Space

Box Office: 020 8692 4446 22 – 23 Oct

Emily Rising

From sleeping upside-down on her ceiling to soaring over a starry-skied London, Emily’s adventure is just beginning. It’s fun being high up. But she’s not coming down… Ages 7+.

See the Grinch in Wimbledon this Christmas

Discover the magic of Dr Seuss’ classic story How the Grinch Stole Christmas as it comes to life at New Wimbledon Theatre. Join Max the Dog in Whoville this wintery season as he narrates the story of the scheming Grinch who is trying to steal Christmas away from the joyful Whos, who are celebrating with holiday cheer. Celebrate the festive season alongside them with this nostalgic and spectacular show bound to make you smile. Packed full of wonderful songs, and magnificent sets and costumes inspired by Dr. Seuss, this is a heart-warming and hilarious musical for all the family. Join in the Christmas spirit with the show critics have called “A genius of a show! A total delight for both kids and adults!” How the Grinch Stole Christmas will be playing at the New Wimbledon Theatre from the 1 to 3 November. Don’t be a Grinch, book now at www.atgtickets.com/Wimbledon

A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic

Christmas Family Theatre

Family Shows this Christmas

Last year’s magnificent, big-hearted smashhit production of A Christmas Carol is coming back to The Old Vic this Christmas. Matthew Warchus’ production of Charles Dickens’ immortal classic has been joyously adapted for the London stage by Jack Thorne (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child) and stars Paterson Joseph (Peep Show, Babylon) as Ebenezer Scrooge. The Old Vic’s A Christmas Carol fills the auditorium to the brim with mince pies, music and merriment. The unique staging immerses the audience in this uplifting story. Time Out gave the production five stars and described it as ‘magical’. A Christmas Carol is recommended for ages 8+ and runs from 23 November to 18 January. Book your tickets online at www.oldvictheatre. com, call 03448 717 628 or visit The Old Vic box office in person.

The Snail and the Whale

The Snail and the Whale is the latest show from Tall Stories, producers of The Gruffalo and Room on the Broom to come to the West End. The Snail and the Whale will run at the Apollo Theatre for a limited time from 30 November. Join an adventurous young girl and her seafaring father as they reimagine the story of a tiny snail’s incredible trip around the world, inspired by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s muchloved picture book. For more information or to buy tickets, visit www.nimaxtheatres.com or call 03303 334 809.

‘It’s magical’ Time Out

BOOK NOW FOR CHRISTMAS 2019

FRI 1 – SUN 3 NOV

A CHRISTMAS CAROL A version by

0844 871 7646* ATGTICKETS.COM/WIMBLEDON* *Fees apply. Calls cost up to 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge.

23 Nov 2019–19 Jan 2020 Tickets from £12 | For ages 8+

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for September and October

September Fri 6 Sep

Lambeth Palace Garden Open Day, SE1 7JU 12-3pm. An opportunity to enjoy the beautiful gardens of Lambeth Palace. Refreshments available in aid of Depaul International. Plants and honey on sale. Also visit the 17th century Great Hall. For more details call 020 7898 1200.

Sat 7 Sep

Fox Masks, Horniman Museum and Gardens, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ

(Also 28 Sep) 1.30-2.15pm, 2.453.30pm. Foxes live in the gardens and on the nature trail. Go along to the Armaments to make your own furry fox mask. Ages 3+. Charges apply. Art Makers takes place in the Education Centre. For more details and to book visit www.horniman.ac.uk

Medieval Murmurings, The National Archives, Richmond, TW9 4DU 10.30am-3pm. The whole family can discover the magic of written and spoken language. Start by unlocking

the secrets of the iconic Domesday Book in a workshop, and then get creative in the medieval craft corner and dressing-up booth. To book search The ‘National Archives’ on Eventbrite.

Sat 7 – Sun 8 Sep

Railway Weekends, The Historic Dockyard Chatham, ME4 4TE

Go along and witness locomotives which will be steaming through the site. Chatham Historic Dockyard Railway has just under 1 mile of line to operate demonstration trains and

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have the latest details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure they haven’t changed

Brain-Fizzing Facts – Awesome Science Questions Answered Why is your elbow called your funny bone? How could you escape the grip of a crocodile’s jaw? Which animal can breathe through its bottom? And how do these things all link together? Science expert and STEM Ambassador Dr Emily Grossman uncovers the answers to these and many of the weirdest, mindfizzingly awesome and funny science questions in her brand new book, Brain-Fizzing Facts. Emily is an expert in molecular biology and genetics and has also trained and worked as an actress and singer, combining these skills as a science broadcaster, educator and trainer. You may recognise her from her regular appearances on Sky 1’s fact-based panel show, Duck Quacks Don’t Echo or her Youtube video sensation How to Stop Yourself Being Ticklish. Emily’s brilliant book will have your eyebrows raised and jaw dropping as it uncovers the amazing scientific explanations behind all sorts of questions that pop into your head. Each section of the book is linked to the previous one, creating a fantastically interactive structure where one answered question brings up new curiosities and surprises. This is the perfect book for children who love learning about science or who need an extra nudge when it comes to STEM (Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) subjects. Brain-Fizzing Facts is available now on paperback for £6.99 from all good book shops. 12

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

“

I saw your event in Primary Times.... Please mention you saw the event listed in Primary Times

”

it’s the perfect photo opportunity to get up close to the railway. For more details visit thedockyard.co.uk

Sun 8 Sep

The Waste-less Market, The Exchange, Erith, DA8 1RS

11am-3pm. A zero waste pop up market following our ethos of Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Encouraging the community to work towards a more sustainable way of living. For more details visit www. theexchangeerith.com/events

Tues 10 Sep

Florence and Hospitals, Florence Nightingale Museum, SE1 7EW 3.30pm. Florence studied the design of hospitals in Britain and across Europe. Bad design, she knew, would undermine the best nursing and medical care. Find out how she influenced hospital architecture across the world today in this themed talk. For details visit www. florence-nightingale.co.uk

Crossness Engines Guided Tour, Thames Water Sewage Treatment Works, SE2 9AQ

11am-2pm. An opportunity to have a look at the buildings and engines, to take in the exhibition and learn something of the Victorian sewer system which continues to serve the capital. Charges apply. For more details visit www.crossness.org.uk

Thurs 12 – Tues 17 Sep Zippos Circus, Twickenham Green, TW2 5TU

The new, larger, bigger, better and brilliant Zippos Circus comes to Twickenham. Charges apply. For more details, timings and to book visit www.zippos.co.uk

Fri 13 Sep

Nocturnal Nature Walk, Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD

7-9pm. Take your family along for a walk around the park after dark to look for and listen for wildlife. See moths, spiders and hopefully some bats too. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Booking essential. Charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ morden-hall-park

Fri 13 – Sun 15 Sep

Tower of London Food Festival, EC3N 4AB

Fri and Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am5pm. Discover London’s castle, street food, pop-up bards, chefs, artisan producers, music, gifts, kids’ entertainment, feast and fizz and much more. Buy tickets online to save 10%. For more details visit www. hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london

Sat 14 Sep

Mid-Autumn Moon Festival, National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, SE10 9NF

11am-4pm. Take part in performances, storytelling and creative activities to inspire you to consider your connection to the Moon. For more details visit www.rmg.co.uk/nationalmaritime-museum

Egg Box Owls, Horniman Museum and Gardens, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ

(Also 21 Sep) 1.30-2.15pm, 2.453.30pm. Celebrate recycling week by creating a fabulous owl friend out of egg boxes. Ages 3+. Charges apply. Art Makers takes place in the Education Centre. For more details and to book visit www.horniman.ac.uk

Meet Some Moths, Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD 10.30-11.30am. Discover which moths were trapped overnight in the park. Suitable for adults and families. Just drop in at the Snuff Mill to see what has been found. Booking not needed. Free event. For more details visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park

Chineke! Junior Orchestra Passenger Seats, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX

3pm. Get a front-seat view of the action in an immersive performance where you can sit among the orchestra while they play. Chineke! Junior Orchestra is a youth orchestra of black and minority ethnic musicians aged 11+. For more details and to book visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Sat 14 – Sun 15 Sep

Guided Tour of Brixton Windmill, SW2 5EU Also 21-22 Sep. 1-5pm.Visit this wonderful reminder of Brixton’s rural past. Discover the two mills in one and learn about the Ashby family, who produced flour at Brixton from 1816-1934. There will be refreshments, an exhibition and the Windmill Shop. Take a full 40 minute tour to the top (must book in advance at www. brixtonwindmill.org or just turn up for a shorter guided tour – every 20 minutes 1-4.40pm.

Autumn Diesel Gala, Epping Ongar Railway, CM5 9BN

This is the third of the ever popular Diesel Galas, where the home fleet, along with some interesting visiting locomotives, come out to be put through their paces over some of the most challenging gradients in preservation. For more details and to buy tickets visit www.eorailway.co.uk

Sun 15 Sep

Find Some Fungi, Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD

11am-12.30pm. Discover the mushrooms and toadstools found in Morden Hall Park on this ‘fungal foray’ with a visiting expert. Suitable for all aged 7+ and one of the National Trust’s 50 things to do. For more details and to book visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ morden-hall-park

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 22...

Choosing your New School with The definitive guide

A Pull Out and Keep Feature

to open days for that all important decision.

Top boys’ or co-educational school in the UK (The Sunday Times Parent Power 2019)

“King’s has given our son the education we could only dream of.” Family of a bursary recipient, 2018

Bursaries of up to 100% of fees available at 11+, 13+ & 16+ An A level & IB school • Boys 7-18 • Girls 16-18 Southside • Wimbledon Common • London • SW19 4TT • kcs.org.uk

Choosing your New School

Chelsea Academy

Chelsea Academy is a mixed Church of England school and Sixth Form with a science specialism. Now celebrating its tenth year, it is a vibrant, happy and successful school with a distinctive Christian ethos. The school is rated ‘Outstanding’ by both OFSTED and SIAMS, with above average Progress 8 score at both GCSE and A Level. Chelsea Academy has 180 Year 7 places available, both community and foundation (faith-based). The school also has 18 places, available to children from any school or borough, awarded on the basis of musical aptitude. Chelsea Academy is offering daily tours from Monday 30 September to Friday 11 October for prospective parents/carers. Tours must be booked in advance via the form on their website. The school has an open evening on Thursday 3 October from 6-8.30pm. Please visit www.chelsea-academy.org/admissions for more information.

The Cedars School

An independent school for boys aged 11-18, The Cedars was founded to work closely with parents to help their sons become the best possible version of themselves. The school has a Catholic ethos and welcomes pupils from all faith backgrounds. Set in attractive parkland and playing fields adjacent to Lloyd Park, the school is a 6-minute tram ride from East Croydon Station and is less than half an hour from Clapham Junction,Victoria and London Bridge. Cedars boys benefit from a personalised tutorial system through

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

which they meet regularly with their tutor on a one-to-one basis.Tutors keep in close contact with home so that boys are supported in their academic and personal development throughout their time at school. A range of co-curricular activities, notably sport, music and a host of clubs and societies, complement the academic life of the school and The Cedars has already started to build up a strong reputation on the sporting circuit and in debating. Academic standards are high and the school has already seen successful entry to Oxbridge in 2019, its first year of A Levels.The school has rapidly become popular and there are plans to build a new teaching block by 2021. For more information, visit www.thecedarsschool.org.uk.

The Study Prep

The Study, a leading Prep School for girls aged 4-11, sits on two beautiful sites near Wimbledon Common.Wilberforce House is for girls from Reception to Year 3, and Spencer House is for girls from Years 4-6. Spencer House, standing proudly on one of Wimbledon Village’s many green and peaceful residential roads, provides a vibrant and stimulating learning environment that gives the older girls a sense of their increasing maturity and independence. Nestled within the leafy serenity of Wimbledon Common,Wilberforce House is currently undergoing further development to modernise and enhance the facilities in order to provide the best possible educational environment for its younger pupils. Our picture shows the Octagon Building at The Study Prep.This historic building will remain the central feature of the development of the school, with the new performing space, library and six classrooms sitting alongside this local landmark. The redevelopment of Wilberforce House will also include a welcoming new reception area and a double height, multipurpose hall which will

Graveney School

Graveney School is holding open events for prospective Year 7 pupils this autumn. Graveney has a beautiful, leafy campus, which comprises 11 buildings including a former Georgian stately home, a Victorian school building, a number of architecturally creative blocks built in the 1960s and a prizewinning new block which opened in 2016. A second new block is due for completion in September 2019 which will include 10 humanities classrooms and an observatory. Graveney’s Year 7 pupils are drawn from a wide number of local schools, with the vast majority of pupils living locally. Graveney has been deemed ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted five times. In 2019 91% of pupils achieved a grade 4 or above in both English and mathematics GCSE and an astonishing 45% of all grades were 7 – 9. The school’s overall attainment score places it in the top 10% of schools in the country. In addition to a rigorous academic curriculum, a wide range of sports, musical and cultural extra-curricular activities are offered to ensure that pupils are well rounded and encouraged to excel in a variety of different areas. There is a particular emphasis on outdoor education, and all Year 7 Graveney pupils participate in a weeklong trip to Wales as part of a programme to build confidence, resilience and a cohesive community within the school. Outdoor education continues in Year 8, feeding into the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme in Year 9. Graveney looks forward to welcoming you to the school’s Open events. They provide excellent opportunities for prospective pupils and their parents to view the excellent facilities, visit subject departments and discuss courses with current pupils and staff. For more information email info@graveney.wandsworth.sch.uk or visit www.graveney.org.

“Conclusive proof that all-girls education from an early age can be simply brilliant.” The Good Schools Guide 2018

The Study is a leading prep school situated in the heart of Wimbledon Village. We identify and nurture each girl’s unique academic, creative and sporting skills in a caring and supportive community.

Choosing your New School

accommodate an audience of 180 people for performances.The work is scheduled to be completed in September 2020. For more information, or to book a school visit, call 020 8947 6969 or visit the school website at www. thestudyprep.co.uk.

For further details and to book a school visit, contact Jane Davis on 020 8947 6969 www.thestudyprep.co.uk Registered Charity No. 271012

We welcome enquires about our scheme of assistance with fees for girls aged 7+.

Preparatory School for girls aged four to eleven

Graveney School

Open Mornings/Evening for Admissions in September 2020 Wednesday 9 October Thursday 10 October Thursday 10 October

9.30am-12.30pm 9.30am-12.30pm 5.30-8.30pm

Graveney School, Welham Road, London SW17 9BU Email: info@graveney.wandsworth.sch.uk • Visit us at: www.graveney.org Any visitors who may need special assistance to access our site and buildings should phone Reception on 020 8682 7000 to make the necessary arrangements. Graveney is in a residential area and there is no parking on site Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Choosing your New School

La Retraite Recognised as Outstanding

La Retraite is a vibrant, welcoming Roman Catholic school for girls with a mixed Sixth Form. In its last Ofsted inspection, the School was recognised as being Outstanding and has produced consistently excellent exam results. Founded in 1880, La Retraite’s sense of tradition, their strong faith community and their approach to education combine to provide an atmosphere where students learn well, and where they grow into thoughtful and responsible Christians. The school’s Scholarship Programme gives students opportunities to thrive academically, gain valuable insights into their chosen professions and to prepare for university and apprenticeship applications. Their Combined Cadets Force (Royal Navy) section teaches students leadership, important life skills and essential qualifications in areas such as First Aid. Students can enjoy adventurous training and are given opportunities to experience new activities. La Retraite has also been selected to offer the new T Level courses, providing qualifications in Digital, Childcare and Education from September 2020. These courses provide students with real-world experience, enjoying a 45-day work placement with a range of employers to get a feel for the world of work. The school warmly welcome any prospective parents or students to attend their Open Sessions to see what La Retraite has to offer. For more information, please visit www.laretraite.lambeth.sch.uk.

At Burntwood we are proud of the tradition of success that encourages our students to be independent, articulate young women who take power and control over their lives in an informed and intelligent way. Burntwood School is recognised as a Science Specialist School and has the coveted ‘Sportsmark’ and ‘Artsmark Gold’ awards. Examination results continue to be excellent at Key stage 4 and 5. Burntwood School is an inclusive community. This is recognised by the Rights Respecting UNICEF Gold Award. We provide opportunities for all our learners, whether they have special educational needs or are part of our gifted and talented cohort. We believe that our students deserve the best and at Burntwood we understand the importance of a collaborative approach between staff, students and parents, working together to support the students in reaching their full potential. All of this is embodied in our commitment to provide: ‘The best education today for the women of tomorrow’ It is our view that girls benefit greatly from a single sex education where they are free to develop and mature without the pressures of the presence of boys. Of course, this is not necessarily the best choice for every young woman and we always recommend visiting a variety of styles of schools in order to compare and contrast and be secure that the school selected will best meet the needs of the young person. Whatever your choice of school at Burntwood, we wish you every success in supporting your child through this important transition.”

Bursaries at King’s

King’s College School, Wimbledon, has a history of enabling bright young minds from every background to access the school. However, helping children to move from their state primary school to the new opportunities of an independent education in 20 acres of space, in the heart of Wimbledon, is about more than simply offering bursaries. It is about making the move right for each child.

Burntwood School

Primary Times spoke to Helen Shorrock, Principal at Burntwood School. “Choosing a new school for our children can be a daunting experience. I always suggest that it is important to make a careful analysis of the breadth of curriculum offer, whether the school has a good record with regard to examination success and where progression for the youngsters to Higher Education is the norm. A substantial 6th Form is important, as these can offer a wider range of subjects and more flexibility of subject choice for the young person. A good school will also provide a wide range of sporting and extracurricular activities as well as excellent dance, drama and music teaching. It is important that every child is treated as an individual and that the school works in partnership with the parents to encourage the very best from the young person. At Burntwood, we encourage our young women to be articulate, thoughtful individuals who are able to express their opinions whilst also being able to listen to and consider the views of others. We believe strongly that all our young people should have the opportunity to study and embrace a varied curriculum that will allow them to access academic, creative and practical subjects enabling them progress to a host of world class further education establishments. 16

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

La Retraite

Roman Catholic Girls’ School

OPEN SESSIONS Thursday 26th September, 2019 Year 7 Open Evening, 4pm to 7pm

Thursday 3rd October, 2019 Sixth Form Open Evening

Internal Students - 2pm to 4pm - External Students - 5pm to 7pm

Choosing your New School

King’s desire to appeal to the 93% of pupils who attend state primary schools, as well as those from traditional prep schools, was the driving force behind the opening of the lower school for Years 7 and 8 in 2016. Nearly half of all boys in the lower school have joined from primary schools, and King’s want to encourage any bright boy who would like to come to the school to feel that King’s will do all they can to welcome him. The pastoral care at the school is exceptional, while the range of drama, music, sport and other activities is incredibly exciting, meaning that although King’s pupils do phenomenally well in public exams, this has not come at the expense of their wider interests or their own humanity. Financial assistance of up to 100% of tuition fees (inclusive of scholarships) and up to 100% of other costs (for the expense of daily school lunch, transport, uniform, relevant trips and so forth) is available. With many boys gaining bursarial support at 11 and 13, and girls (as well as boys) able to seek support with fees in the sixth form, maybe it is time to consider King’s for your child. For more information, visit www.kcs.org.uk.

Diary Dates

Open events 2019

• You must apply for a secondary school place by 31 October.

Whole school Saturday 14th September 9.00am-12.30pm

• 1st March 2020 is National Offer Day. Parents can log onto their local authority’s website to see their offer, after which letters will be posted out.

16+ Tuesday 24th September from 5.45pm 11+ Tuesday 8th October from 5.45pm AN A LEVEL & IB SCHOOL · BOYS 7-18 · GIRLS 16-18 020 8255 5300 · kcs.org.uk ·

• You must apply for a place at a school, even if it’s linked to your child’s current primary school.

Primary Times_Autumn 2019.indd 1

09/07/2019 09:35:12

YEAR 7 OPEN DAYS Burntwood is an oversubscribed Academy for Girls which has an established tradition of academic success, providing a relevant and challenging education which enables all members of our school community to reach their full potential.

- OPEN EVENING Wednesday 25th September 6.00pm - OPEN MORNING Tuesday 8th October 8.45am

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

College Gdns, New Malden, KT3 6NU

Clarence Avenue, New Malden, KT3 3TU

Surbiton Hill Road, Surbiton, KT6 4TU

Sandal Road, New Malden, KT3 5AR

Richmond Road, Kingston, KT2 5PE

London Road, Kingston, KT2 6PY

Manor Drive North, New Malden, KT3 5PE

Hook Road, Surbiton, KT6 5AS

Tala Close, Surbiton, KT6 7EY

Address

Wide Way, Mitcham, CR4 1BP

Lilleshall Road, Morden, SM4 6DU

Whatley Avenue, Raynes Park, SW20 9NS

Southside, SW19 4TT.

Bushey Road, SW20 0JL

Lake Road, SW19 7HB

Watery Lane, SW20 9AD

Acacia Road, Mitcham, CR4 1SF

Spencer Hse, Peek Cres, SW19 5ER

Crescent Road, SW20 8HA

Edge Hill, SW19 4NS

Coombe Boys’ School

Coombe Girls’ School

Hollyfield School, The

Holy Cross School, The

Kingston Academy, The

Kingston Grammar School

Richard Challoner School

Southborough High School

Tolworth Girls’ School & Sixth Form

Name

Harris Academy Merton

Harris Academy Morden

Harris Academy Wimbledon

Kings College School Wimbledon

Raynes Park High School

Ricards Lodge High School

Rutlish School

St Mark’s Academy

Study Prep, The (Yr 4 - Yr 6)

Ursuline High School

Wimbledon College

020 8946 2533

020 8255 2688

020 8947 6969

020 8648 6627

020 8542 1212

020 8946 2208

020 8946 4112

020 8255 5300

020 3962 4300

020 8687 1157

020 8623 1000

Tel

020 8397 3854

020 8391 4324

020 8330 5947

020 8546 5875

020 8465 6200

020 8395 4225

020 8339 4500

020 8942 1242

020 8949 1537

020 8974 1156

Tel

www.wimbledoncollege.org.uk

www.ursulinehigh.merton.sch.uk

www.thestudyprep.co.uk

www.stmarksacademy.com

www.rutlish.merton.sch.uk

www.ricardslodge.merton.sch.uk

www.rphs.org.uk

www.kcs.org.uk

www.harriswimbledon.org.uk

www.harrismorden.org.uk

www.harrismerton.org.uk

Website

Merton

www.tolworthgirlsschool.co.uk

www.southborough.kingston.sch.uk

www.richardchalloner.com

www.kgs.org.uk

www.thekingstonacademy.org

www.holycross.kingston.sch.uk

www.hollyfield.kingston.sch.uk

www.coombegirlsschool.org

www.coombeboysschool.org

www.chessington.kingston.sch.uk

Website

appointment only.

Open Eve Thur 26 Sept 5.30-8.30pm. Open Morn Mon 30 Sept & Tue 1 Oct at 9am by

appointment only)

Open Eve Wed 18 Sept 6.30-8.30pm. Open Morn Mon 23 - Fri 27 Sept 9-11am (by

Contact school to book a visit

See school website for details.

Open Eve Tues 17 Sept 5.30-8.30pm. Head talks 6pm, 7pm & 8pm.

11am. Head Talk at 9.15am.

Open Eve Tues 17 Sept from 5.30pm. Open Morn Tues 24 & Wed 25 Sept between 9.15-

See school website for details.

Open Day Sat 14 Sept 9am-12.30pm. Open eve Tues 8 Oct from 5.45pm.

appointment only.

Open Eve Tue 24 Sept 5-8pm. Open Morn Tue 1, Thur 3, Tue 8 & Thur 10 Oct by

Open Eve Wed 2 Oct 5.30-8pm. Open Morn Tues 8-Thur 10 Oct 9-10.15am.

See school website for details.

Date/ Time of Open Day

7 Oct - Fri 18 Oct, booking essential

Open Eve Wed 9 Oct 6-8.30pm, Head Talks 6.10pm, 6.45pm & 7.20pm. Open Weeks Mon

Open Day Wed 2 Oct.

Open Eve Thur 3 Oct 6-8.30pm. Head Talks at 6.15pm & 7.15pm.

Open Day Sat 28 Sept. 11+ info evening (parents-only) Thur 26 Sept 7pm or 8pm.

Open Eve Thur 10 Oct.

Open Eve Mon 30 Sept 5.30-8pm.

Open Eve Thur 3 Oct 6-9pm.

Open Eve Wed 2 Oct 6-9pm.

Open Eve Wed 9 Oct 6.30pm. Open Morn Thur 10 Oct, Fri 11 Oct 9am.

See school website for details.

Date/ Time of Open Day

Dates correct at time of going to press. You are strongly recommended to contact the schools to confirm details

Garrison Lane, Chessington, KT9 2JS

Address

Chessington Community College

Name

Kingston

South West London Open Day Directory 2019 - Table 1 of 3

School Open Day Tables

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Queen’s Road, Richmond, TW10 6HW

Ham Street, Ham, TW10 7HN

Hanworth Road, Hampton, TW12 3HB

Richmond Road, Twickenham TW1 3BB

Park Avenue, SW14 8RG

Clifden Road, Twickenham, TW1 4LT

Christ’s School

Grey Court School

Hampton High

Orleans Park School

Richmond Park Academy

St Richard Reynolds Catholic

Queens Road, Twickenham, TW11 0LR

Percy Road, Twickenham, TW2 6JW

Fifth Cross Road, Twickenham, TW2 5LH

Address

Winchcombe Road, Carshalton, SM5 1RW

West Street, Carshalton, SM5 2QX

Chatsworth Road, Cheam, SM3 8PW

Sutton Common Road, Sutton, SM3 9PS

Grennell Road, Sutton, SM1 3DY

Peaks Hill, Purley, CR8 3YP

Stanley Road, Sutton, SM2 6TQ

Pound Street, Carshalton, SM5 3PS

Damson Way, Carshalton, SM5 4NS

Manor Lane, Sutton, SM1 4AS

Turing House School

Twickenham School

Waldegrave School

Name

Carshalton Boys Sports College

Carshalton High School for Girls

Cheam High School

Glenthorne High School

Greenshaw High School

John Fisher School, The

Overton Grange School

St Philomena’s Catholic High School

Stanley Park High School

Sutton Grammar School

020 8642 3821

020 8647 5842

020 8642 2025

020 8239 2383

020 8660 4555

020 8715 1001

020 8644 6307

020 8644 5790

020 8647 8294

020 8714 3100

Tel

020 8894 3244

020 8894 4503

020 8069 6100

020 8943 0033

020 8325 4630

020 8876 8891

020 8891 0187

020 8979 3399

020 8948 1173

020 8940 6982

Tel

www.suttongrammar.sutton.sch.uk

www.stanleyparkhigh.org.uk

www.stphils.org.uk

www.overtongrange.sutton.sch.uk

www.johnfisherschool.org

www.greenshaw.co.uk

www.glenthorne.sutton.sch.uk

www.cheam.sutton.sch.uk

www.chsg.org.uk

www.carshaltonboys.org

Website

Sutton

www.waldegrave.richmond.sch.uk

www.twickenhamschool.org.uk

www.turinghouseschool.org.uk

www.teddingtonschool.org

www.strichardreynolds.org.uk

www.richmondparkacademy.org

www.orleanspark.richmond.sch.uk

www.hamptonhigh.org.uk

www.greycourt.richmond.sch.uk

www.christs.richmond.sch.uk

Website

Open Eve Wed 25 Sept 4-9pm.

See school website for details.

Open Morn Mon 23 Sept-Fri 27 Sept 8.30-10.30am. Booking essential.

Open Eve Thur 3 Oct 5.30-8.30pm.

Open Eve Thurs 12 Sept 4-8pm.

Open Eve Thur 26 Sept 5.30-8.30pm.

Open Eve Wed 18 Sept 6-9pm. Open Morn Thurs 26 Sept 9-11am by appointment only.

Open Eve Fri 11 Oct.

Open Eve Thur 19 Sept 5.30-8.30pm.

Open Eve Thur 19 Sept.

Date/ Time of Open Day

Open Morn Thur 3 Oct, Fri 4 Oct, Mon 7 Oct, Tues 8 Oct 9-10.30am. Booking essential.

9.15-10.30am.

Open Eve Tues 8 Oct 6-8pm. Open Morn Thur 10 Oct, Fri 11 Oct, Mon 14 Oct, Tues 15 Oct

Open Eve Thur 3 Oct from 6pm. Head talk at 6.30pm & 7.30pm.

Open Morn Wed 16 Oct 9-10.30am. Open Eve Wed 16 Oct 5-8pm.

Open Morn Fri 4 Oct, Fri 18 Oct. Open Eve Tues 15 Oct 6.30-8.30pm.

Thurs until Oct half term.

Open Eve Wed 9 Oct 6-8.30pm. Contact school to book talk & tour events every Tues and

Open Morn Tues 1 Oct-Fri 4 Oct 9.30-11am.

See school website for details.

Thur 17 Oct 9am & 11am.

Open Eve Tues 1 Oct 6.30-9pm. Open Morn Thur 3 Oct, Tues 8 Oct, Thur 10 Oct, Tues 15 Oct,

Open Morn Tue 17 Sept & Thur 3, Wed 9 Oct 9.15-10.30am. Open Eve Thur 26 Sept 6-8.30pm.

Date/ Time of Open Day

School Open Day Tables

Dates correct at time of going to press. You are strongly recommended to contact the schools to confirm details

Broom Road, Teddington, TW11 9PJ

Teddington School

College

Address

Name

Richmond

South West London Open Day Directory 2019 - Table 2 of 3

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Battersea Park Road, SW11 5AP

Sutherland Grove, SW18 5JR

Merton Road, SW18 5JU

Parkham Street, SW11 3DQ

Harris Academy Battersea

Saint Cecilia’s C of E, Wandsworth

Southfields Academy

St John Bosco College

020 8185 7770

020 8673 5644

020 7376 3019

Tel

020 7924 8310

020 8875 2600

020 8780 1244

020 7622 0026

020 8682 7000

020 8672 8582

020 8673 8737

020 8946 6201

020 7924 8200

020 8877 0357

020 8788 3421

Tel

Head’s speech at 5.30pm & 7.30pm.

sch.uk

www.thecedarsschool.org.uk

www.laretraite.lambeth.sch.uk

www.chelsea-academy.org

Website

Other

www.sjbc.wandsworth.sch.uk

www.southfieldsacademy.com

www.saintcecilias.london

www.harrisbattersea.org.uk

www.graveney.org

Open Day Sat 14 Sept 9.30-12.30pm

Open Eve Thur 26 Sept 4-7pm. Open Morn Tues 8 Oct-Thur 10 Oct 9.30am-12pm.

Open Eve Thur 3 Oct 6-8.30pm. Academy Tours Mon 30 Sept - Fri 11 Oct.

Date/ Time of Open Day

5.30-8pm.

Open Morn Thur 12 Sept, Wed 18 Sept 8.45-11am, Sat 5 Oct 9-11.30am. Open Eve Tues 24 Sept

7.30pm.

Open Morn Wed 11, Thur 12, Tues 17 & Fri 20 Sept 8.45-10.30am. Open Eve Thur 3 Oct 5.30-

Open Morn Mon 16 Sept, Mon 14 Oct 9am-12pm. Open Eve Wed 18 Sept 6.30-8.30pm.

Open Morn Mon 16 & Tue 17 Sept 9-11am. Open Eve Wed 18 & Thur 19 Sept 5-7.30pm.

Open Morn Wed 9 & Thur 10 Oct 9.30-12.30pm. Open Eve Thur 10 Oct 5.30-8.30pm.

speech at 6pm & 7pm.

Open Morn Mon 30 Sept, Fri 4 Oct, Tues 8 Oct 9-10am. Open Eve Tues 1 Oct 5.30-8pm. Principal’s

Open Morn Tues 17 Sept, Wed 18 Oct 9-10.45am. Head’s speech 9.45am. Open Eve Thur 26 Sept.

www.chestnutgrove.wandsworth.

www.ernestbevin.london

Open Morn Tues 8 Oct 8.45am. Open Eve Wed 25 Sept at 6pm.

Open Eve Thur 10 Oct 5.15-7.15pm. Open Day Sat 12 Oct 9.30-12.30pm

Sept 9-11am, appt only.

Open Eve Tues 10 Sept 6-8pm with Principal’s address at 6.20pm. Open Morn Thur 12 Sept, Fri 13

Open Morn Mon 23-Thur 26 Sept 9-10.45am. Open Eve Mon 23 Sept 5-8pm.

Date/ Time of Open Day

www.burntwoodschool.com

www.arkbolingbrokeacademy.org

www.atacademy.org.uk

www.arkputney.org

Website

Dates correct at time of going to press. You are strongly recommended to contact the schools to confirm details

Coombe Road, Croydon, CR0 5RD

Welham Road, SW17 9BU

Graveney School

The Cedars School

Beechcroft Road, SW17 7DF

Ernest Bevin College

Atkins Road, Clapham Park, SW12 0AB

Chestnut Grove, SW12 8JZ

Chestnut Grove Academy

La Retraite RC Girls’ School

Burntwood Lane, SW17 0AQ

Burntwood School

Lots Road, SW10 0AB

Wakehurst Road, SW11 6BF

Bolingbroke Academy

Chelsea Academy

West Hill, SW15 2UT

Ashcroft Technology Academy

Address

Pullman Gardens, SW15 3DG

Ark Putney Academy

Name

Address

Name

Wandsworth

South West London Open Day Directory 2019 - Table 3 of 3

School Open Day Tables

lown’s Party for Pigs Word Search D B N T P J V S H O

F R B R I M J O M M

Y I Z O N D G N T R

T S S T SW T T K S N V I P O H N U M P

G L I E O K L D R I

I E N R W H B G G G

P C E S B A O D L L

S N O U T R A O B E

Spot the Difference In Picture B there is a branch missing, the roof ridge tiles are white, the wolf has an extra eye, the hammer has been replaced with a screwdriver and there is a sun there. How many Pigs do you see? 12

Katie

A n s w e r s

Spot 5 Differences

T A O H S T G I L T

What do you call a pig who does karate? Porkchop!

How do pigs write top secret messages? With invisible oink!

Can you find all these words in the word search? Pig, Trotters, Oink, Sow, Shoat Pink Mudbath, Swine, Snout, Grunt, Pigsty, Piglet, Gilt, Omnivore, Hog, Boar, Bristle

What do you call a pig thief?

What is a pig’s favourite colour?

A hamburglar!

Ma-hog-any!

Can you draw a picture or write a poem about anything to do with your favourite farm animal.

Why should you never tell a pig a secret? Because they love to squeal!

What do you call it when you cross a dinosaur and a pig? Jurassic pork!

Send it to us to have a chance of winning a Primary Times Tee Shirt AND seeing your prize winning entry published in the next Primary Times! Categories: ages 4-7 and 8-11 Name: Age: Address:

Postcode: School:

Send your entry together with this completed form to:

Annie's Competition, Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London, SE12 8LG or scan them both and email them to:

competitions@primarytimes.biz

Closing date 27 September 2019. Good Luck! Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for September and October

September Totally Thames 2019: Thames 1745, Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, SE10 9NN

2.30pm and 4.30pm. In this family show, head back in time to 1745 where the landlady of the Queen’s Head Ale House has been up to no good. She is captured and sentenced to the ducking stool. See for yourself if she can escape or if she is doomed. For details and to book tickets visit www.ornc.org

Thurs 19 Sep

Bat Walks, WWT London Wetland Centre, SW13 9WT

Get the chance to see amazing flying mammals and their astonishing aerial acrobatics before heading out to the reserve. Ages 8+. Charges apply. For more details visit www.wwt.org.uk

Fri 20 Sep

Author Adam Baron Event, Ottie and the Bea, Blackheath Royal Standard, SE3 7BT 4.30-5.30pm. Local author Adam Baron will be talking about his two books ‘Boy Underwater’ and ‘You Won’t Believe This’ and the process of writing. Free event. For more details and to book visit www. ottieandthebea.com

Fri 20 – Sun 22 Sep

Open Air Cinema, Central Park, Greenwich Peninsula, SE10 0JF

7.30pm. Bring your friends and family to watch Grease, Bohemian Rhapsody and Four Weddings and a Funeral over these 3 days.You can expect tasty street food and a bar. Choose popcorn, pizza or bring your own picnic – it’s up to you. It’s probably the most laid-back way to enjoy film and food in the city. Book your ticket at popupscreens.co.uk

Sat 21 Sep

Family Activity Day, Tower Bridge Exhibition, SE1 2UP

10am-4pm. Go along and enjoy some fun family activities inside Tower Bridge. All activities are included in the price of your admission ticket. For more details visit www. towerbridge.org.uk

OSO Kids’ Glitter Ball: Calypso Crazy, OSO Arts Centre, Barnes, SW13 0LF

11am-1pm. Take your children to the launch of the Glitter Ball Club, where they can dance and party to live music played by the Merry-Makers Steel Band. Party dress advised. Ages 4-11. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For more details and to book visit www.osoarts.org.uk

Space Rocks, Indigo @ The O2, Greenwich, SE10 0DX A festival of space exploration. Presented in association with ESA, the European Space Agency, it’s a unique gathering of the best and brightest in every scientific and creative field but united by a common passion for the great beyond, and with a focus on fun. To book visit www.theo2.co.uk

Abbey Wood Food and Craft Market, SE2 9RH

11am-4pm. A market boasting foods from around the world to sample and buy. Craft stalls offering great products from personalised frames to knitwear, baby items and homemade fudge. For children there will be face painters, kids’ activities and a play zone.Visit www.bexley.gov. uk/events

Family Fun, Myatt’s Fields Park, SE5 9RA

10am-1pm. Enjoy a fun morning at the Mulberry Centre with activities such as a free bouncy castle. Cook and eat with other parents, grandparents, carers and kids. Open play indoors and outdoors. For more details visit www.myattsfieldspark. info

Urban Harvest Festival and Chilli Festival, Wild Cat Wilderness Community Green Space, Catford, SE6 4JH From 11am, last entry 3.30pm. Join in the annual celebration at the Wilderness including games and activities for all the family. Join in workshops, learn a new skill, join in games and have a day of fun. For more details visit www. wildcatwilderness.org

Erith Pier Festival, DA8

11am–9pm. Head down to the river to toast the end of the summer and enjoy fun for all the family. Sample fantastic flavours from the street food stalls as Erith Kitchen moves to the Pier for its last outing, and relax and listen to a great line-up of local. Search ‘Erith Pier Festival’ on Facebook.

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have the latest details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure they haven’t changed

“

I saw your event in Primary Times.... Please mention you saw the event listed in Primary Times

”

Open House, South London Botanical Institute, SE24 9AQ

1-5pm.Visit the house, collections and garden and learn more about its founder, botany, a range of community events and have delicious tea and cake. Open to all ages. Free event. For more details visit www.slbi.org.uk

Reimagine. Your City. Car Free, Londonwide

2pm. Decorate your very own tote bag with your name and adorn it with sparkly shapes and a fabulous tassel keyring that you’ll be taught how to make. Ages 7+. For more details and to book visit www.ottieandthebea. com

10.30am-5pm. A brand new free event to celebrate World Car Free Day, allowing Londoners of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy London’s streets. The celebration will take place on 20km of traffic-free roads around Tower Bridge, London Bridge and the City of London. Free entertainment and fun activities will be provided. For more details visit www.london.gov. uk/events

Sat 21 – Sun 22 Sep

Sat 28 Sep

(Also 28-29 Sep) 2.30pm and 4.30pm. In this family show, head back in time to 1745 where the landlady of the Queen’s Head Ale House has been up to no good. She is captured and sentenced to the ducking stool. See for yourself if she can escape or if she is doomed. For details and to book visit www.ornc.org

11.30am, 1.30pm and 3pm. Go along and meet Miss Nightingale and hear all about how she became known as the ‘Lady with the Lamp’, how she became a nurse, why she went to the Crimea and how she improved the conditions for the soldiers and nurses. For details visit www.florence-nightingale.co.uk

Sparkle Child Workshop, Ottie and the Bea, Blackheath Royal Standard, SE3 7BT

Totally Thames 2019: Thames 1745, Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, SE10 9NN

Sat 21 Sep – Sun 19 Jan

Spanish Flu Exhibition, Florence Nightingale Museum, SE1 7EW

Find out how the pandemic spread across the globe, the strange and often dangerous ‘treatments’ and discover how nurses, inspired by the work of Florence Nightingale, were the only thing that helped. For more details visit www.florence-nightingale. co.uk

Sun 22 Sep

Open House, St Leonards Air Raid Shelter, East Sheen, SW14

1-5pm. Open House is a wonderful opportunity to find out about the history on your doorstep, so why not go along to explore. For more details visit www.environmenttrust.org

Migration Walk with a Warden, WWT London Wetland Centre, SW13 9WT

This practical session will help you identify different birds and to understand more about them. Under 16s must to be accompanied by a responsible adult. Ages 8+. Charges apply. For more details visit www. wwt.org.uk

At Ease Early Opening and Make Do and Mend, National Army Museum, SW3 4HT

8.30-10am. Enjoy a relaxed early opening of the Museum where families with additional sensory needs can experience the galleries in a quieter environment. Then at 11am-1pm and 2-4pm take part in a craft activity, using recycled materials to build a giant structure, open to all. Part of Open House London. Free, booking is required. For more details visit www.nam.ac.uk

Meet Miss Nightingale, Florence Nightingale Museum, SE1 7EW

School of Comedy Workshop, Castelnau Community Centre, SW13 9AQ

10.30-11.30am. Teaches children the art of improvisation, sketch and standup comedy. To book tickets visit www. barnesfilmfestival.com

Guy’s Urban Challenge, Guys Hospital, SE1 9RT

An adult and junior urban triathlon. Run, spin and climb. A day of fitness and fundraising for all the family. For more details sign up now at www. guc19.org

Sat 28 – Sun 29 Sep

Apple Weekend, Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD

11am-4pm. Get into the autumn spirit with this Apple Fest. Try local Merton varieties, taste a range of National Trust harvest goodies and have a go in the child-friendly hay bale maze. Free event, admission applies. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ morden-hall-park

Sat 28 Sep – Sun 27 Oct Harvest Fest: Hay Maze, Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD

(Selected dates) 11am-3pm. Celebrate the Harvest Fest by trying to find your way out of a child-friendly hay bale maze constructed of over 300 bales of golden straw and built to entertain all ages, from toddlers to adults. Drop-in. For more details visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park

Sun 29 Sep

Family Sundays, Royal Opera House, WC2E 9DD

11am-3.30pm. Discover more about opera, ballet and the Royal Opera House in fun-packed Sundays, ideal for

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 24...

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for September and October

September all the family, with a range of exciting and creative activities. Ages 3-10. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www.roh.org.uk

Japan Matsuri, Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN

10am-8pm. A free annual festival with Japanese food, music, dance and activities for all the family. The theme this year is ‘future generations’. For more details visit www.japanmatsuri. com

Regatta London, Central London

For one day, kayaking, canoeing, rowing and paddle boarding will take over the River Thames. The event will fundraise for great causes, connect sport with the environment and inspire thousands of people from across the country to take up paddle sports. For more information, contact info@regatta.london

Houseplant Festival, Garden Museum, SE1 7LB

This all-day celebration of houseplants will bring the thriving online plant community to life. Pick up some tips for looking after your precious greenery, enjoy some food and a drink from the Garden Café, and do a little plant shopping while you’re at it. For details visit www. gardenmuseum.org.uk

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have the latest details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure they haven’t changed

Ancient Egypt Adventure Activity Book

“More historical fun to fascinate little Pharaohs and mesmerise your menacing mummies!” Learn about the wonders of Ancient Egypt through completing this spectacular activity book that is both educational and fun. With beautiful illustrations by Jen Alliston, children can be entertained for hours on end. There are even four pages of stickers included so they can customise the book themselves. There are over one-hundred different activities and games, from spot the difference, maths challenges, colouring in and unscrambling secret messages included with so many interactive ways to explore Ancient Egypt. Children can learn about Pharaohs, great gods, hieroglyphics, the afterlife and pyramids whilst completing captivating challenges that are enjoyable and will even make them laugh with Ancient Egyptianthemed jokes. With even more ways to interact, there are DIY-activities that are easy to follow. Make your very own decorated collar, a water clock and even a mummy! This book provides a great introduction to Ancient Egypt that is simple and easy for younger children to follow. The exciting activities mean they can interact and remember what they have learnt whilst developing skills and concentration. Colourful illustrations and lots of jampacked fun will captivate children with the fabulous world of Ancient Egypt. Ancient Egypt Adventure Activity Book is available to buy for £6.99 from www.thegmcgroup.com and other retailers. It is suitable for children aged 4-8. 24

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

“

I saw your event in Primary Times.... Please mention you saw the event listed in Primary Times

October Thurs 3 Oct

”

National Poetry Day, Nationwide

Join in the fun in this UK-wide celebration of poetry. This year marks National Poetry Day’s 25th anniversary and the theme will be Truth. The day generates thousands of amazing events across the UK in a variety of venues. For more details and to sign up visit www. nationalpoetryday.co.uk

Sat 5 Oct

Southbank Sinfonia Family Concert, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX

11.30am. Are you ready to explore more than 400 years of musical history in 45 minutes? Step into a time machine at an interactive family concert, featuring a chance to meet the musicians. Ages 5-11. Charges apply. For more details visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

Fun Palace, Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD

12noon-4pm. Go along and join in to learn new skills from people in your community for free at this vibrant community celebration. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ morden-hall-park

Big Family Press, South London Gallery, Peckham, SE5 8PR

Sat 5 – Sun 6 Oct

Fun Palaces, Nationwide

A weekend campaign promoting community at the heart of culture and culture at the heart of community. From tiny dancers to mad scientists, there is fun for everyone. For more details and to find your local fun palace visit www. funpalaces.co.uk

Sun 6 Oct

Big Bike Ride, Various Locations

10am-4pm. The Hospice Big Bike Ride is the ideal day out for families and friends wanting to enjoy the tranquillity of cycling along the River Thames. Starting points include: Erith, Thamesmead, Woolwich or Greenwich. For details visit www. bexley.gov.uk/events

Sat 12 Oct

Spiders Aren’t So Scary, Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD

(Also 19 Oct) 5-7pm. Take your family along to meet some of the park’s spiders and find out about their lives from our nature experts. Suitable for adults and families. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Charges apply. To book visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mordenhall-park

GOSH Race for The Kids, Hyde Park, W2 2UH Race for the Kids is a 5K family fun run and the biggest mass participation event for Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity. To register visit www. royalparks.org.uk or www.gosh.org

Winter Birdwatching Walk, WWT London Wetland Centre, SW13 9WT A warden will guide you around the wildlife reserve to see what’s about and give you tips on field-craft and bird ID. Under 16s must to be accompanied by a responsible adult. Ages 8+. Charges apply. For more details visit www.wwt.org.uk

Sat 12 Oct – Sun 3 Nov

Howl’o’ween, Chessington World of Adventures, KT9 2NE

Ride rollercoasters in the dark and experience Chessington’s spookiest rides and shows this Halloween. Walk through award-winning attractions, meet creepy animals and dress up for the daily fancy dress competition. For more details and to book, visit www.chessington.com.

Thurs 17 Oct – Sat 2 Nov

Lord Vampyre’s Halloween Brick or Treat, LEGOLAND®, Windsor, SL4 4AY

LEGOLAND’s newest resident monster, the fang-tastic Lord Vampyre, is throwing the ultimate Halloween party. Tickets from £39. Under-threes go free. www.legoland. co.uk.

Sat 19 Oct

Meet Miss Nightingale, Florence Nightingale Museum, SE1 7EW (Also 21, 23, 25-26 Oct) 11.30am, 1.30pm and 3pm. Go along and meet Miss Nightingale and hear all about how she became known as the ‘Lady with the Lamp’, how she became a nurse, why she went to the Crimea and how she improved the conditions for the soldiers and nurses. For details visit www. florence-nightingale.co.uk

Family Activity Day, Tower Bridge Exhibition, SE1 2UP

10am-4pm. Go along and enjoy some fun family activities inside Tower Bridge. All activities are included in the price of your admission ticket. For more details visit www. towerbridge.org.uk

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 30...

Out of School Activities

Out of School Activities Earlier in the year Stagecoach Sutton were awarded ‘outstanding’ in their inspection report with “100% exceeds expectations” in all areas.

Act, Dance and Sing at Stagecoach Sutton

Stagecoach Sutton offers down-to-earth quality training for 4-18 year olds in the disciplines of dance, drama and singing in a very safe and happy environment. The school offers a fantastic balance, offering training in a caring, nurturing way to the students who come for fun and confidence building but also giving full support and guidance to those who are seeking a career in the performing arts. ‘Early Stages’ classes are designed for 4-6 year olds, ‘Main Schools’ for 6-16 year olds and ‘Further Stages’ for the 16+. Stagecoach is also now OFSTED registered and accept childcare vouchers as payment.

Stagecoach Sutton Principal Jennifer Jones was awarded the ‘Business Development Award 2018’ with Stagecoach Performing Arts. Along with a team of the very best coaches, Jennifer runs a very professional, happy theatre school where all her students shine. So, don’t miss out on joining an exciting school where a very warm and friendly team of coaches and a caring, professional Principal will welcome you every week.

A Confident Start with Jigsaw Performing Arts A new school year is here - time to try something new with your weekend? Jigsaw’s popular dance, singing and drama weekend classes for 3-18 year olds are designed to develop children’s

Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools

dr ama singing dance Schools in:

01372 272561

Balham Croydon Epsom Mitcham Surbiton Sutton Teddington Wimbledon 3–18 years

TWO WEEK TRIAL AVAILABLE. BOOK NOW!

T: 020 8447 4530 Follow us on Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

W: Jigsaw-arts.co.uk

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Out of School Activities

confidence, self-expression, focus and social skills, while having fun and making lots of new friends. Parents share in the excitement and their children’s progress with regular presentations, shows and reports from Jigsaw’s team of highly experienced teachers. For more information or to book a two-week trial, search for your nearest school on their website www.jigsaw-arts. co.uk or call Jigsaw on 020 8447 4530.

Disney Family Swim

To the swimming pool … and beyond! Keep the kids healthy, happy and active this autumn by heading to the pool for a Disney-inspired family fun swim session. Sessions include 10 exciting activities featuring content inspired by Swim England core aquatic skills and the magic of Disney storytelling – launching with Disney•Pixar’s most-loved characters from the recently released Toy Story 4 including Buzz and Woody and the rest of the gang. Sessions will be available for 12 months and will include further releases from Disney’s Mickey Mouse and Friends in October 2019 and Disney’s Frozen 2 in February 2020. The sessions will be delivered by a trained activator and available at over 250 pools across the UK. Session times, days and price will vary by location. For more information, visit www.swimming.org/learntoswim/disney.

BalletBoyz – Challenge, Excite and Enlighten

Based in Kingston-Upon-Thames, critically acclaimed contemporary dance company BalletBoyz are hailed as pioneers for making dance accessible and reaching wide audiences through their celebrated stage and television work. Founded in 2000, BalletBoyz established itself as one of the most original and innovative forces in modern dance, aiming to challenge, excite and enlighten audiences through its work. BalletBoyz provides an extensive timetable open to all levels from 2-18+ including Ballet, Yoga, Pilates, Creative and Contemporary. In addition, the company’s rich creative learning programme expands to community classes, school workshops and projects, inclusive dance, weekly dance classes for people with Parkinson’s and a unique preprofessional training programme. The highly experienced team of teachers includes specialist practitioners and members of the BalletBoyz Company. For more information, please visit www.balletboyz.com, email classes@balletboyz.com or call 020 8549 8814.

PIANISTAS

The Benefits of Performing Arts

Involving your children in the performing arts does so much more than improving their singing, dancing and acting. Often parents see their children become more confident in school, their physical ability improve and a boost in their social skills with a new network of friends. The performing arts offer children a fantastic platform to be expressive and channel emotions, whilst learning new skills, being active, having fun with other local children and ultimately growing in confidence. They teach life skills such as working in a team, resilience and self-esteem. It is an outlet for children to be active and expressive within a creative setting while using concentration, commitment and determination. The classes enable children to be themselves whilst encouraging them to be social and collaborative with their peers.

Private home piano tutoring for children from the age of 3 to adults. Delivering success & passion for music with a personalised 1:2:1 plan. Start your autumn in tune.

To make an enquiry, call 020

7097 5137

or visit Pianistas.co.uk

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Learning to swim is a vital life skill which every child should experience. Swimming lessons teach children independence and give a sense of accomplishment as the child feels themselves improving. Swimming offers a whole-body workout like no other, helping children to keep active whilst having fun. Learning to swim also gives children the ability to get themselves out of potentially dangerous situations, enabling them to fully enjoy trips to the seaside and beach holidays. Once your children are able to swim confidently and competently, the door opens up to a huge range of other activities, like kayaking, canoeing and water polo. These provide further opportunities for keeping active, meeting friends and developing new skills.

Out of School Activities

Learn to Swim at Everyone Active

then teaching children to swim. As they improve, the distance is increased and all strokes are introduced. Children also have the opportunity to develop water safety skills and other aquatic disciplines such as rookie lifeguard, synchronised swimming, diving and water polo. Visit www. everyoneactive.com for more information.

Everyone Active’s award-winning learn to swim programme offers lessons for all ages of swimmers, with child classes starting at 4 months right through to adult classes and are available at over 120 sites. All swimming teachers are Swim England level 2 (or equivalent) qualified. All stages are progressive and continually assessed, initially developing water confidence and

SWIMMING LESSONS

SPACES AVAILABLE NOW!

NATURAL BORN SWIMMERS Cheam Leisure Centre 020 8644 2891

Westcroft Leisure Centre 020 8669 8666

Sunbury Leisure Centre 01932 772287

Enrol today at www.everyoneactive.com/swim-lessons 14836_Primary Ads_31 Aug.indd 8 Follow us on Times Twitter - @PT_LondonSandE

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

06/08/2019 14:04

t ’ a s h N ew W Almost an Animal Alphabet

From anteaters and bears, to yetis and zebras, Almost an Animal Alphabet is a charming and beautifully illustrated animal alphabet book that takes children on a journey all the way from A to Z (well, almost...).There are actually 21 animals, 1 extinct animal, 3 non-animals (for N, U, and X), and 1 imaginary animal! It’s a lovely book and of course it’s educational while being fun and really very funny as well. Almost an Animal Alphabet is written and illustrated by Katie Viggers. It’s published in hardback by Laurence King books on 16 September at a price of £11.99.

Madlug Bags – Give Dignity to Children in Care Madlug, the backpack that everyone is talking about, is an award-winning bag brand that helps you give dignity to children in care. It’s your perfect everyday backpack for school. Every time you purchase a bag from Madlug, they give a bag to a child in the care system. The smaller version of the classic backpack measures 28x38x19cm or 15 litres, and is made of 600D durable fabric. It is suitable for ages 3+. Kids’ backpacks start from £27.50. For more information, please visit www.madlug.com.

Become a Master Detective

Treat inquisitive children to the thrill of forensics this autumn with the Three Detectives Range from Thames and Kosmos. For those seriously committed to their surveillance work, the Master Detective Toolkit will keep them entertained. In this sturdy black briefcase of investigative tools, there’s everything you need to learn about how real detectives use forensic science to answer questions, gather evidence and solve crimes. It also allows users to experiment with the equipment and techniques used by detectives to develop their own observation and problem-solving skills. The Master Detective Toolkit starts from £36 and is available online and from Smyths. For more information, please visit www.thamesandkosmos.co.uk.

Moccis Hand Sewn Swedish Moccasins

Moccis® are the ﬁrst and only luxury, hand sewn Swedish moccasins to bring fashion, function and fun to adult and children’s indoor footwear worldwide. Moccis are a hybrid of a sock and slipper in one, making them the perfect indoor footwear. They feature a soft leather sole that prevents you from slipping and falling down and are super soft and cosy, yet indestructible.They are ethically produced in Sweden to ensure the highest possible quality and have an invisible support strap so they don’t fall off or lose their shape. Moccis are available for children and adults from £25. For more information, please visit www.moccis.co.uk.

OTL Technologies Bluetooth Headphones

OTL Technologies are back with their ofﬁcially licensed Bluetooth headphones, perfect for your tweens. With 8-10 hours of battery life and a 10 metre range, your children can have total freedom to listen to their favourite movies and music on the move. Plus, with the many different and colourful designs, there will be a set of headphones to suit every child. Using the latest Bluetooth 5.0 chip set, they offer ﬂawless music streaming. Headphones are available from all good high street retailers. For more information, please visit www.otltechnologies.com.

Light Up the Room with Pyropets Introducing PyroPets - light the wick and Voffi the dog will soon become a hot dog. As your candle begins to burn watch as your adorable canine companion’s skeleton reveals itself.Voffi is available in two colours, whether you’re looking for a pop of vibrant berry red, or would rather enjoy the soothing, calming tones of a pastel mint,Voffi is sure to take pride of place in your home. Measuring 7 x 2.7 x 5.9 inches, each candle provides you with a burning time of approximately 15 hours. Made from Paraffin wax, cotton wick and aluminium,Voffi (Mint or Berry) is available to buy online for £27 from eu.54celsius.com.

The Science Experiment Toolbox

The Hape Science Experiment Toolbox allows children to invent and experiment as they explore the basics of physics phenomena and learn how these practices can be used in the real world. Use the tools and parts to conduct each of the six experiments in the Toolbox. As they complete each experiment one by one, children will gain a valuable understanding of basic scientiﬁc principles such as momentum, potential energy and the conservation of energy. The Toolbox contains everything you need to carry out the exciting experiments in this 32 piece set. The Science Experiment Toolbox is available to buy online for £39.95 from www.wickeduncle.co.uk.

Win Tickets to Mini Maestro Family Concerts

Conductor John Landor and the London Musical Arts Orchestra have been thrilling young audiences with their Saturday afternoon Mini Maestro Family Concerts at the famous church of St Martinin-the-Fields over the last 13 years. These creative, educational and fun events are full of lots of opportunities to get close-up to the orchestra, meet the friendly musicians, sing, clap and even conduct! The first three concerts of their 2019-20 series begin on 21 September with Mozart’s wonderful symphony No. 40 alongside Handel’s Water Music, on 19 October there’s ‘Autumn’ and ‘Winter’ from Vivaldi’s famous ‘Four Seasons’, and on 16 November you can enjoy the brilliance of the Baroque with Pachelbel’s ‘Canon in D’ . All the concerts run from 4.30-5.30pm and take place at St Martinin-the-Fields in Trafalgar Square. To win one of four Family Tickets (2 adults and 2 children) to the October or November concerts, tell us the names of the other two seasons in Vivaldi’s work. See below for entry details.

Win Tickets to Mini Maestro Family Concerts

Conductor John Landor and the London Musical Arts Win ahave Family Howl’o’ween Orchestra beenTicket thrillingtoyoung audiences at with their Saturday afternoon Mini Maestro Family Concerts at the famous church of St Martin-in-the-Fields over the last 13 years. These creative, educational and fun events are full of Experience a Howl’o’ween beyond lots of opportunities to get close-up the orchestra, yourto wildest screams atmeet Chessington the friendly musicians, sing, clap World and even conduct! of Adventures Resort. With spooktacular The first three concerts of their 2019-20 series beginfun on for all the family from Saturday 12 October 21 September with Mozart’s wonderful symphony No. 40 3 November, alongside Handel’s Water Music, to onSunday 19 October there’suntangle a web of lies with the launch of ‘Autumn’ and ‘Winter’ from Vivaldi’s famous ‘Four Seasons’, brand new attraction Spyders, plus and on 16 November you can enjoy the brillianceCreepy of the Caves the award-winning Baroque with Pachelbel’s ‘Canon in D’ . All the concerts run Unearthed, Chessington’s scariest from 4.30-5.30pm and takeattraction. place at St Martin-in-the-Fields in Trafalgar Square. Howl’o’ween sees the return of Trick or Treat Wood and the Haunted Howl’o’ween Live Show, as well as rides in To win of four Family Tickets (2 adults and shows 2 children) the dark.one There’s also a series of spooky animal and a daily to fancy the October or November concerts, tell us the names of the dress competition. Tickets forseasons Howl’o’ween at Chessington start from just £29.50 other two in Vivaldi’s work. Send your answer alongper person if booked online five days in advance, with children with your name, age, address, school and telephone numberunder to the ageMini of three getting in for free. See www.chessington.com for Maestro Competition, Primary Times, more information. 7 Southbrook Mews, London, SE12 8LG Primary Times is giving away a family ticket for four people to or email your answer to competitions@primarytimes.biz Howl’o’ween. To win, answer this question, ‘How many legs do with ‘Mini Maestro’ as the subject 27 September 2019. spiders have?’ To enter, see detailsby below.

Win a Parc Asterix Short Break Parc Asterix, close to Paris and just a two hour drive from Calais, is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. A new Asterix film was released this August, so a trip to the park couldn’t come at a more exciting time! It has a combination of 47 attractions, rides, performances and interactive shows set in 6 worlds (Gaul, the Roman Empire, Ancient Greece, the Vikings, Travel Through Time and Egypt). You can expect historical and magical discoveries, laughter and thrills for all the family. To celebrate the anniversary, the park has recently opened its second hotel, La Cité Suspendue, a village of wooden cabins on stilts spread across the forest by the park’s gate, as well as two

new attractions - Attention Menhir!, a fully immersive 4D cinema complete with smells, water, wind and more and L’Aventure Asterix, an interactive circuit taking visitors through the comic book’s creative process as well as a drawing workshop. In the autumn, Park Asterix will celebrate Halloween when the park is transformed into a street show of monsters and terrifying creatures. In the winter, they will celebrate Christmas with special decorations, a Christmas market, an ice skating rink and an ice maze. For more information visit www.parcasterix.fr

T A H R I H N E M B

G V Z L T G F M M W

A S T E R I X I W P

U J M D I Q U T L A

L T Y I P S U M O R

S X S R E T S A O C

Find the following words Parc, Asterix, Menhir, Ride, Gauls, Trip, Time, Hat, Coasters, Romus Name Age.......................................................................... Address................................................................... ................................................................................ ................................................................................ School......................................................................

To enter any of the competitions send your answer along with your name, age, school, address and phone number to Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London, SE12 8LG. Don’t forget to include the name of the competition. Alternatively email your answer and details to competitions@primarytimes.biz with the competition name as the subject by Friday 27 September 2019. If you are entering more than one competition you can put all entries in the same envelope.

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Competitions

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for September and October

October Sat 19 – Wed 23 Oct

Pumpkin Carving Fest, Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD Drop in to the Stableyard to pick your pumpkin, create your crazy carving and light it with an LED tea light candle. Children must be accompanied by an adult and supervised during pumpkin carving activity. Charges apply. To book visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mordenhall-park

Sat 19 Oct – Sun 3 Nov Scarecrow Trail, Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD

10am-4pm. A new trail for family fun! Pick up your trail at the Garden Centre and look out for clues to help the scarecrows to get what they’ve lost. For more details visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/morden-hall-park

Sun 20 Oct

Meet Mary Seacole, Florence Nightingale Museum, SE1 7EW 11.30am, 1.30pm and 3pm. Meet Mary Seacole to discover more about her exciting life and how she helped soldiers during the Crimean War. For more details visit www. florence-nightingale.co.uk

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have the latest details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure they haven’t changed

“

I saw your event in Primary Times.... Please mention you saw the event listed in Primary Times

Written by award-winning author Clive Gifford and illustrated by wildlife artist Jonathan Woodward, who specialises in a cut-paper collage style using recycled materials, Guardians of the Planet: How to be an Eco-Hero is printed in full colour using special environmentally-friendly waterless inks on FSC paper. It will include a foreword by ClientEarth trustee Brian Eno. Through a mix of compelling facts, creative activities and proactive tips, each chapter of the book focuses on a particular area of the environment, inspiring children to engage with environmental issues in everyday situations. From reusing clothes and composting food to reducing water waste and giving wildlife a helping hand, the unique ‘Guardian’ theme of the book provides everything a child needs to protect particular areas of the environment. For example, readers can find out how to care for the oceans as a ‘Keeper of the Coast’, plant trees as a ‘Friend of the Forests’ and learn all about recycling as a ‘Home Hero’. Guardians of the Planet: How to be an Eco-Hero by Clive Gifford and Jonathan Woodward is published by Buster Books on 26 September. All royalties from the sale of the book will be donated to ClientEarth, an environmental charity run by lawyers to protect the planet’s ecosystems and people. 30

2 Sept - 13 Oct ‘19

Storytelling with Miss Nightingale, Florence Nightingale Museum, SE1 7EW

11am-1pm and 1.30-3.30pm. Join Miss Nightingale for a storytelling session in the new Family Corner. Dress up as a nurse and discover how Florence made hospitals better for patients and nurses and how she still inspires people today. For more details visit www.florence-nightingale.co.uk

Low Tide Walk, Creekside Discovery Centre, Deptford, SE8 4SA

11am-1pm. Wade in a wild river and experience a different perspective of London history and urban wildlife. Ages 9+. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www. creeksidecentre.org.uk

Family Open Day, Thames Water Sewage Treatment Works, SE2 9AQ

10.30am-4pm. Go along and see one of the four engines, Prince Consort, in steam. Have a look at the buildings and engines, take in the exhibition and learn something of the Victorian sewer system which continues to serve the capital. Charges apply. For more details visit www.crossness. org.uk

Sun 20 – Sun 27 Oct

Guardians of the Planet: How to be an Eco-Hero

Tues 22 Oct

Spooky Eltham Palace, SE9 5QE

(Selected dates) 11am-4pm. A feast of frightening fun awaits at Eltham Palace and Gardens this half term. Gather your little monsters for a ghoulishly good day-out, with wicked crafts and a spooktacular Halloween quest around the castle. To book visit www.english-heritage.org.uk

Mon 21 Oct

Fairy Tales of the Turntable, Southbank Centre, SE1 8XX

10.30am. Red shoes not required for a free dance and music family workshop on all things fairy tale, led by ZooNation. Work with a dancer from the theatre company to learn some new moves. For more details and to book visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

Chocolate Tuesday, Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS

10.30am-2.30pm. Learn about the history, geography and science behind the tree that eventually leads to chocolate. The day includes craft activities, a Garden tour, chocolate tasting and the chance to create your own mixtures to take away. Ages 6-11. To book visit www. chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk

Wed 23 Oct

The Art of the Garden, Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS

Create art and craft inspired by a ‘world tour’ of the garden, taking in vampire plants, spiky cacti, tropical treasures, medicines, perfumes, seeds and ferns, worms, tadpoles, birds, vegetables and more. Ages 7+. For more details and to book visit www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk

Wed 23 – Thurs 24 Oct

Anansi Dance and Storytelling Workshop, Unicorn Theatre, SE1 2HZ 12.30pm. After the performance, go along on a musical journey to the dancing world of Anansi and his famous stories. This event is part of UpClub+. Ages 3-7. For more details and to book visit www.unicorntheatre.com/Anansi

Thurs 24 Oct

Lotions and Potions, Chelsea Physic Garden, SW3 4HS

Mon 21 – Sun 27 Oct The Fairy Tale Trail, Royal Festival Hall SE1 8XX

Set off on a do-it-yourself adventure for families, as magical as the words ‘once-upon-a-time’. Guided by a playful trail kit, discover the secrets of your favourite fairy tales through cryptic puzzle-solving, creative looking, drawing and games. For more details visit www. southbankcentre.co.uk

10.30am-2.30pm. Can a poison be a medicine? Explore a brief history of medicine and find out about the folklore of plants and ‘witchcraft’, learning how the power of plants can heal and soothe. Ages 8+. For more details and to book visit www. chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk Our next copy deadline is

27 September 2019 If you have something you would like us to try and publicise (space permitting) please email it to

listings@ primarytimes.biz

All your own work!

Muniba Saddique aged 9

Charlotte Stokes aged 6 Newton won a box competitions in our July Bumper Summer issue. April Congratulations to the following people who won t, Arabella Dumbo DVD winners were Matthew Clarke, Lilly Barrat of books for her school - Warden Park Primary. Our Lovett. ia Victor and Ava were nted Horsham Family VIP winners Lincoln, Emilia Windle and Eshan Rana. Our Encha n. Ben Wilke Finlay and ard Stann Katie n, ew Rowe, Finn Lagdo Measure-Mates were won by Ernest Croucher, Matth William Moger ience. Exper y rfl Butte ook Millbr the to s ticket ing won Theobald, Eilis Renee Leadbetter and Henry Cumm and Lincoln Isteed. Isla etition. Funkita swimwear was won by Rose Sibley comp tures Adven of World Fogg's s Philea the won our older winner was and 8's under the for Annie's drawing competition Baker won UglyDolls goodies. Charlotte Stokes won page. this on rk enjoy the artwo Muniba Saddique. Well done to all our winners and

If you would like to see your work displayed here then just send us a drawing, poem, riddles, jokes or short story and we'll do our very best to include it. Send it to: Good Work Page Primary Times 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG

Thank you to Taiwo Orunjbamila for his clever acrostic about his daddy, Daisy Bidgood for her lovely concert drawing, Elsie Carolyn Pitkin for her excellent Gecko drawing and Rose Batty for the fun walk in the park scene. We love seeing your work so do please keep sending it to us.

Planning some weekend fun with the kids?

Say no more. There’s lots to do with the kids here at Southside

Events.

We host monthly Kids’ Clubs events and workshops, which we think you’ll love. With fun educational themes we invite you to bring the kids along to have lots of fun whilst learning. Join the Southside Kids Club for free family fun all year round!

Food.

We’re all about having fun with the kids and there’s no better time to enjoy family time than with great food. Bring the little ones to Southside for tasty treats, great value menus and family-friendly spaces to eat.

Movies.

Catch the latest must see movies at our Cineworld cinema. Check out Movies For Juniors, discounted weekly Saturday morning screenings of kids films. Or for the older kids watch a movie in 4DX – the experience is one not to be missed!

Stay informed We recently closed our pop up Kids Club Playground and it was loved soo much that we are working hard to bring you a new play area for toddlers and young children. Sign up to the Kids Club newsletter to stay informed! southsidewandsworth.com/kids Southside Shopping Centre, Wandsworth High Street, London, Sw18 4TF