Families Upon Thames Issue 118 September 2017 by Families London-Kent Borders Magazine

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Issue 118 September/October 2017

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MIMA WALIA, Editor JULIETTE BARBER, Managing Editor AMANDA BIGGS, Sales SARAH HARMER, Design m: 07792 006546 e: editor@familiesuponthames.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk Find us and like us on Facebook Facebook.com/familiesuponthames @FamiliesuponT Now more than 7,700 followers!

Make sure you pick up our October issue and get set for Halloween & Bonfire Night! Out at the beginning October

contents

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news

early years

education

18 clubs & classes 25 what’s on 29 autumn days out

Front Cover image Marks and Spencer Back to School

ASK ABOUT OUR TWO WEEK TRIAL

Unlock your child’s potential with Stagecoach Performing Arts Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year olds, where students learn to embrace life with creativity and courage

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FAMILY news spotlight on

Kate Prokop - Mary Poppins of hairdressing Taking the children to the hairdresser can be tricky...

Trying to get your children in the same place at the same time, working around after-school activities and battling with the fact that no child actually enjoys having their hair cut, nor do we much enjoy the tears and tantrums that go with it, means that we often put off going to the hairdressers.

So maybe it’s time to call in the one and only Kate Prokop, the ‘Mary Poppins of the hairdressing world’. Kate will visit you at home where children are often more relaxed, plus you don’t have to travel anywhere so there is more time for homework. After the cut there is a treat from her special treasure bag for each child, and every princess gets a little hair bow to perfectly finish off her new look. Kate has 15 years’ experience cutting children’s hair around London, including five years in Trotters on the King’s Road. Kate also has experience with autistic and special needs children.

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

Dogs could help children improve their reading skills Many studies have shown that improving a child’s reading skills will tend to lead to a greater overall academic success and better life chances. There have been numerous schemes and initiatives aimed at boosting both interest in and aptitudes for reading but one of the most novel involves bringing four-legged helpers into the classroom. The practise originated in the US in 1999 with the Reading Education Assistance Dogs (READ) scheme. It was slower to catch on in the UK but has gained traction recently, with the Kennel Club’s Bark and Read Foundation being at the forefront. According to the Kennel Club, reading to dogs has been proven to help children develop literacy skills and build confidence, through ‘both the calming effect the dogs’ presence has on children and the fact that the dog will listen to the children read without being judgemental or critical’.

Are your kids having too much salt?

Official guidelines have advised that children aged between 1 and 3 should have no more than 2g of salt per day. According to new research by Kiddyum (of 2,000 parents of children aged 1-4), a staggering 84% of parents are not aware of how much salt their child should be having. Meanwhile, 64% of parents also said that they trust food that’s marketed for children to be low in salt but, unfortunately, that doesn’t seem to be the case. The research therefore highlighted the following shocking revelations: A portion of spaghetti hoops with two slices of toast can be 117% of a child’s daily amount of salt! While out of six prepared savoury meals for children, half of them contained one third of a child’s daily allowance of salt, while one contained 99% of the maximum serving of salt.

Misleading packaging

Actress Zoe Wanamaker CBE, a supporter of the scheme, said: ‘That is why the Kennel Club’s Bark & Read project is such an inspiring idea, as we all know that dogs are great listeners and won’t judge if we stumble over a word.’

Chloe Joyner, a Nutritionist for Kiddyum commented: ‘It’s really important that young children have a low salt diet and naturally it’s something a lot of parents are concerned about. But it can be tricky for parents to know if a food is high in salt or whether a product contains added salt because sometimes it is hidden in the ingredients, or labels and tables can be misleading.’

Study finds kids who spend more time on social media are less happy overall Researchers from the University of Sheffield have found that children who spend more time on social media feel less happy in most aspects of their lives. The study found that spending just one hour a day on social networks reduces the chances of a child being completely happy with their life by around 14%. That was three times higher than the estimated adverse effect of coming from a single-parent household and greater than the negative impact of playing truant. Kids who spent more time on social media reported being less happy about school, their appearance and their family, although they did feel happier about their friendships.

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Researcher Philip Powell said: ‘The problem with making comparisons in online media is that people tend to portray themselves in an idealised state.’ ‘There is evidence that people think other people are happier than them after interacting with them online because we tend to post videos and chat that presents this positive image.’ He also suggested that spending longer on social media could also expose young people to a greater risk of cyber-bullying.

Families Upon Thames 3

FAMILY HEALTH and WELLBEING

Are your Child’s teeth straight?

by Dr Kieryn Smart

Take a good look again at your young child’s teeth and then ask yourself: 0 Is there enough space for the new adult teeth? 0 Are the teeth too big? 0 Will their face grow and everything be okay? 0 When should I get an orthodontic opinion? EARLY is the answer. But how early is early?

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growth and tooth eruption plan, including the space available for the adult teeth and their relevance to the face shape and general health and development of the child. Generally, by six years of age 80% of jaw growth has occurred. Analysis at this stage will give a predicted path of development of the face, jaws and teeth. The reality today is that the face and jaws of modern man are becoming more refined and narrower, narrowing the jaws that house the teeth. This is particularly noticeable in the upper jaw and palate; the resulting high narrow palate obstructing the flow of air through the nose and affecting tongue position. Other associated health issues include mouth breathing, ear infections, sleep apnoea and tooth grinding.

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So the teeth are not the wrong size or too big, it is the jaws that are too small! This results in crooked teeth growing through where they can. The narrow upper jaw and crooked upper teeth hold back the growth of the lower jaw and thereby affect the shape of the face. The dentists at Roseneath are proactive and prescribe Functional Jaw Orthopaedics (bone) with the use of either fixed or removable appliances. Phase One consists of developing the jaws to the correct size therefore avoiding tooth extractions, followed by Phase Two aligning the jaws and correcting the face profile and finally a retainer phase. Children between the ages of six and eleven are generally treated in this way, while teenagers and adults are treated by Roseneath’s specialist orthodontist to create beautiful smiles.

Dr Kieryn Smart BDS (Rand) is a Senior Partner at Roseneath Dental Practice in Richmond and has provided high-quality dentistry to the local community for over 20 years. Roseneath Dental Practice offers FREE consultation for all new patients. For more information, visit www.roseneath.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

FAMILY HEALTH and WELLBEING

It’s a Doctor’s Life Daniela Peeva, a consultant paediatrician at +richmond practice, discusses her career and why Vitamin D is so important

1.Tell us a bit more about yourself and how you came to work at +richmond practice?

I’m a consultant paediatrician with more than 20 years’ experience working in Europe, the Middle East and in the NHS. I previously worked in private practice for five years. My family and I live local to the practice and it therefore seemed like a natural choice to join +richmond practice as an Associate.

2.Tell us about your experience of working in the NHS?

I also work at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital. This is a tertiary centre for orthopaedics, rheumatology and metabolic bone diseases. I see complex cases, rare conditions and congenital malformations involving musculoskeletal systems, metabolic bone disorders and rickets as a paediatrician in the NHS.

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3.You have done research in to Vitamin D deficiency in children

Yes, I have a special interest in this area. Recent results show that significant numbers of children and young people in the UK are Vitamin D deficient. Vitamin D is an essential nutrient needed for healthy bones. People particularly at risk are those with reduced sun exposure, a limited diet like vegetarians, malabsorption and renal diseases, prolonged breastfeeding and those taking certain medication. Individuals with increased need are pregnant and breastfeeding women, infants, twin pregnancies, adolescents and patients who are obese. The symptoms and signs of Vitamin D deficiency are aches and pains, myopathy causing delayed walking, rickets with bowed legs, poor growth and muscle weakness.

Dr Peeva regularly works at +richmond practice where she attends to children in an emergency, for routine investigations, health checks and to assist with regular travel and other vaccinations. For more information visit richmondpractice.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

4.Your husband is also a specialist, what is like to have medics around you all the time?

Yes, my husband works as an Orthopaedic surgeon. As doctors, medicine is an integral part of our

lives. We have two children. Our son is at Imperial College where he studies mathematics and our daughter attends Tiffin Girl’s school. They have been very patient and supportive of my career.

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EARLY YEARS CARE

Play as you learn at Mandarin Ducklings By Juliette Barber

Beaumont House a nursery for all seasons The nursery has some great all-in-one waterproofs and encourages the children to bring their wellies into nursery, so you can guarantee that if there are any puddles to be found, they’ll all be splashing in them!

Families in East Twickenham have a new choice of early years education in the form of Mandarin Ducklings. Situated in the beautiful Marble Hill Park, this innovative nursery for two to five-yearolds combines the Montessori method of teaching with a bilingual education in English and Mandarin and outdoor learning. By combining these three elements, Mandarin Ducklings feels it can offer children a happy, healthy and stimulating environment where they can develop essential skills and learn about the wider world while having fun. Montessori believes that each child has great potential, and by fostering the development of autonomy with self-directed activities, hands-on learning experiences and self-discipline a child will flourish. At Mandarin Ducklings the children use Montessori equipment and learn in a beautifully crafted environment that is inviting, natural and peaceful with a trusting, caring and supportive relationship between children and teachers, thus supporting the Montessori ethos. Little ones are further engaged in the bilingual

education that Mandarin Ducklings provides. Studies have shown that children in their first six years are most sensitive to languages, and bilingualism or multilingualism have shown to have many social, cognitive, psychological and lifestyle advantages. Pupils are provided with a bilingual education in English and Chinese Mandarin in a programme that is embedded in the nursery’s daily routine and activities. ‘This is an additional benefit that we offer to children on top of a comprehensive Early Year educational programme,’ says Liya Rickards, manager of the nursery and a qualified Montessori teacher. ‘It gives children a head start, as learning another language at this age can be totally effortless.’ Another benefit of Mandarin Ducklings is its park location and its two large gardens, which lends itself easily to outdoor learning. This programme includes gardening and uses the Forest School principles, managed by a qualified Forest School Leader, to promote learning and a love of nature. Mandarin Ducklings Nursery at Marble Hill Park is open during the week from 8am to 6pm.

‘There’s no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing!’ This is the motto at Beaumont House Day Nursery in Twickenham High Street which ensures that all the children have the chance to be outside every day, as much as possible. Over the summer, the nursery has had regular outings to the local parks and sandpit, as well as walks to the greengrocers to enable the children to choose their own fruit and vegetables for snack time. The newly planted garden at the back of the nursery is now complete and the raised beds are ready for planting, so the children will be researching what to plant in the Autumn and looking at what seeds they can get ready.

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

For more information, visit www.mandarinducklings.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Families Upon Thames 7

EDUCATION

What kids really need to know before starting school Just five minutes ago you were bringing your little one home from the hospital. Now you’re shopping for their first school uniform and trying to find a suitable pair of school shoes. Where did the time go? If you go onto any parenting forum once the primary school offers go out, you’ll find lots of panicking parents worried that their little one will be left behind if they aren’t properly prepared. Relax. All children learn and develop at different rates and in different ways. There is no definitive list of must-have skills for them to have acquired before the start of term. There are a few basics that can be helpful. Read on to find out what your child really needs to know before they start school.

Independent dressing is something children should be able to do. Don’t send them to school at this age with shoes that have laces.

Using the toilet on their own

Now, this is a must-have skill. If your child has been in private daycare, they may be used to having staff around that help them with toileting. There is a lot less of this in school. Unless a child has special needs, they will need to wipe themselves and be able to flush the toilet.

Holding a pencil

There is a myth that your child will be expected to at least write their own name before they start school. This isn’t the case at all, and no one expects a child who is four or who has just turned five to achieve this straight away. There will always be some who can, but that doesn’t mean anything. Remember when we said earlier that all children develop differently? Being able to hold a pencil confidently though is quite useful. Again, don’t panic if they can’t. Some children are simply late at developing gross motor skills, and some may face other barriers. Both hypermobility syndrome and dyspraxia, for example, make holding a pencil and putting pressure on paper hard. If you suspect that’s the case for your child, try building them up slowly by encouraging them to play with Lego or Duplo, or make models from modelling clay.

Reading

Mastering cutlery

The chances are that your child will have cooked, school dinners. First off, don’t get anxious if they aren’t that great cutting up their food. There will be dinner supervisors there to help them. Most schools (possibly all schools) arrange dinner times so that nursery and reception children come in first, and are able to take their time picking their food, and settling down at the table.

buttons, but there is a reason why the early year’s uniform is usually based around t-shirts and jumpers. Don’t send them to school at this age with shoes that have laces. Staff will be there to help them with dressing, particularly when they start changing for PE lessons, but most children at this age can’t tie their own laces and aren’t expected to. Velcro fastenings are much faster and also give children some independence.

However, if your child can use a knife and fork, and cut their own food, it will make lunchtimes a lot easier for them. They will also be expected to carry their food tray and take plates up to be washed. This is something you can prepare them for at home by getting them

to carry their plates out to the kitchen after meals.

Dressing and undressing

Independent dressing is something children should be able to do. Some things may be difficult for children at Reception age like

This is one area where some parents (and we all know the type) can get competitive. Unfortunately, this can have the knock-on effect of dragging other parents into worrying about it as well. Should your child be able to read before they start? Will that give them a bump up to the ‘top table’, and if they can’t read does that mean they will never catch up? There is no need to be so anxious. Reception is not as academically oriented as Year 1. There is no expectation that any child will be able to read at such a young age. Indeed it may even be a disadvantage. There is more than one type of phonics for example – what if you have used a different type of phonics to the school? Or you haven’t used phonics at all in teaching them to read? Don’t spend the summer trying to get them to learn the alphabet. Enjoy your time together instead. There are lots of studies that show reading to your child every day has a far better impact on their educational outcomes.

For more information about starting school, visit www.familiesonline.co.uk

8 Families Upon Thames

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EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2017 Inspiring a Love of Learning

SCHOOL NEWS EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2017 Inspiring a Love of Learning

TWICKENHAM PREP’S PUPILS BOUNCE BACK There has been growing national recognition that children’s mental health is as important as their physical well-being. At a time when school children are faced with so many challenges, it is understandable that parents, carers and teachers want reliable and professional guidance on how to enable children to develop resilience skills, to learn how to bounce back from the trials and tribulations of 21st century life, and develop a grounded and genuine understanding of how to celebrate themselves and enjoy challenges. Twickenham Prep School is leading the way and has joined in progressive partnership with Raising Resilience (www.raisingresilience.co.uk),

a group of three Clinical Psychologists, who specialise in helping schools to promote resilience and meet the mental health needs of their pupils. Together they are providing a whole school programme called BOUNCE! The fun-packed, interactive and research-based programme provides children with workshops, teachers with talks and lesson plans, and parents with up-to-date information on building emotional resilience in children’s lives.

NEWLAND HOUSE SCHOOL FOLLOWS THE YELLOW BRICK ROAD Newland House School in Twickenham celebrated the end of the academic year with a colourful rendition of The Wizard of OZ by the Year 6 and 8 leavers. The stunning set provided a vivid and atmospheric platform for the young performers and the costumes were spectacular. Dorothy’s voice was sweet and clear, the Scarecrow was suitably funny in her quest for a brain, the Tin Man was moving in her desire for a heart and the Cowardly Lion’s loud delivery was impressive. The good and bad witches provided an appropriate balance of virtue

versus evil, adding a great sense of morality to the performance, whilst the Wizard created a great facade before he was finally revealed as just an ordinary person. The Munchkins, played by the Year 6 girls, added to the vibrancy with their well-timed dances and striking costumes.

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

For further information, visit www.newlandhouse.net

KINGSTON GRAMMAR CLINCHES BRONZE IN WORLD FINAL

CELEBRATING THE RAINFOREST AT THE MALL

In July, four Kingston Grammar School students represented the UK in the World Final of the Kids’ Lit Quiz 2017. Katie Monaghan (Year 11), Tomas Caldon, Freddie Pflanz and Hal Purton (all Year 13) travelled to Toronto, Canada with their English teacher, Ben Campbell, and School Librarian Helen Cleaves, who has been coaching and supporting them. In the final they faced the national finalists from Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa and the USA. During the ten-round ultimate ‘battle of the books’ competition

it was as much about holding nerve as literary knowledge and the team went from last place to bronze in the final round thanks to Katie, who bagged six points and clinched it on the last question! The fab four now return to the UK with their bronze medal, as well as a beautiful glass trophy − in the shape of a book, of course!

For further information, visit www.kgs.org.uk 10 Families Upon Thames

As part of its topic on Plants and the Rainforest, Year 2 students from The Mall School in Twickenham learnt about the importance of looking after bees and butterflies and their role in the future of the earth. The boys watched caterpillars transform over a few weeks from tiny black wiggly lines into majestic speckledorange Painted Lady butterflies. They monitored their progress over the space of three to four weeks and were amazed at how quickly the tiny smooth caterpillars grew into big, fat and hairy ones. Within two weeks all five caterpillars had turned into chrysalises and the waiting game commenced.

With the warm weather the boys didn’t have to wait long and soon the butterflies emerged, fluttering about in their pop-up garden, before being released safely in the science garden.

For further information, visit www.themallschool.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

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24/07/2017

Pre-Prep Open Morning Thursday 12th Oct. 2017 9.30am–10.45am

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Independent Day School in Hampton for girls aged 4-11 & boys aged 4-13 Please visit www.twickenhamprep.co.uk or call 020 8979 6216 Beveree, 43 High Street, Hampton TW12 2SA

• New term- me nursery for girls and boys aged 3 to 4 • Year 3 2018 entry via 7+ Assessment • Register for Rec ntry up to 2022 Welcome Mornings • 22 September • 3 November • 1 December Call to book your place or to make an individual appointment to see the school et ewlandhouse.net www.nese.n

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The Mall is a successful independent prep school for boys age 4+ in Twickenham From 2019 we will become an 11+ school and boys will leave at the end of Year 6

Non-selective entry into Reception (4+) Entry into our expanded Year 3 (7+) is based on assessment Popular destinations include: Hampton, KCS Wimbledon, St Paul’s & Reed’s

Autumn Open Mornings Wednesday 20 September 9.00am

Saturday 7 October “We are very happy as we have found an amazing environment for our son where he is encouraged and motivated.” Reception parent

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Families Upon Thames 11

☛

SCHOOL NEWS EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2017 Inspiring a Love of Learning

LEARN AND GROW AT THE NURSERY AT ST GEORGE’S JUNIOR SCHOOL, WEYBRIDGE

When your child joins the Nursery at St George’s Junior School, Weybridge (for girls and boys aged rising 3 upwards) they are encouraged to develop at their own pace in a secure and stimulating environment. High priority is given to their personal and social development and the aim is to ensure that by the

end of their time in the Nursery, children are happy, confident, motivated, considerate and eager to learn. Children attending the Nursery benefit from a brand new, state-of-the-art building as well as the many indoor and outdoor facilities offered by the St George’s Junior School.

STAINES PREP PUPILS STEP BACK IN TIME

Staines Preparatory School makes sure that every educational tool at its disposal is used to enhance the children’s learning and overall experience. Year 3’s WWII section of the curriculum culminated with a sensational parade of pupils in the costumes of the day. The children also designed and made their own miniature Anderson shelters, learnt a dance and had a street party to celebrate and

understand the impact of VE day! Since 1935 Staines Prep has aimed to provide an all-round education that encourages each child to attain their full potential in a caring and supportive environment. This enables them to develop a sense of community and an informed understanding of the wider world. The Year 3’s work on WWII is unquestionably a successful shining example of this commitment.

For further information, visit www.stgeorgesweybridge.com

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

EXCITING NEW FACILITIES AT LEH

NEW HEAD APPOINTED AT FELTONFLEET SCHOOL

Lady Eleanor Holles (LEH) in Hampton will be celebrating the opening of the Gateway Building this autumn which houses a completely refurbished swimming pool with viewing gallery, activities studio and state-of-the-art STEM classrooms. As well as these fantastic new facilities, LEH prides itself in its excellent pastoral care which

underpins all that it does, and the school believes that a child who feels valued, safe and happy will reach her full potential. This is especially evident when the Year 6 girls move up to the Senior School, as they take with them a set of skills and core values that will enable them to embark confidently and courageously on the next stage of their educational journey.

For further information, visit www.lehs.org.uk 12 Families Upon Thames

The Board of Governors of Feltonfleet School in Cobham has appointed Shelley Lance as the new Head and first Headmistress of the school from January 2018. Shelley, who has been Deputy Head at Feltonfleet since April 2010, began her teaching career at Alleyn’s School, having graduated from King’s College London with a First Class Honours degree in Theology. She was a head of department at Whitgift School before joining the Senior Management Team as Head of Lower School. Following that she was Senior Mistress with responsibility for the School’s

pastoral care provision. Shelley and her husband, Ed, who is Head of Lower School at Epsom College, have a son, Henry, who attends Feltonfleet’s Pre-Prep School. Shelley will begin her new role in January 2018 following Alastair Morrison’s return to Scotland to take up a new post at George Heriot’s in Edinburgh

For further information, visit www.feltonfleet.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

JUNIOR SCHOOL OPEN DAY 7th October 2017 www.lehs.org.uk

☛ Part of the Hampton School Trust. IAPS Independent Day School for boys aged 3 -11 & girls aged 3 - 7 years

Open Mornings Friday 6 October and Friday 3 November 9.30am: Headmaster’s welcome – Prep School 9.45am - 11.00am: Tours – Pre-Prep and Prep Places can be reserved through our ‘Visit the School’ page

Our Impressive State Of The Art New Prep Building Is Now Open 020 8979 1844 www.hamptonprep.org.uk admissions@hamptonprep.org.uk Hampton Prep and Pre-Prep, Gloucester Road, Hampton, Middlesex, TW12 2UQ familiesonline.co.uk

Families Upon Thames 13

10 MISTAKES TO AVOID WHEN YOUR CHILD STARTS SCHOOL By Liat Hughes Joshi

EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2017 Inspiring a Love of Learning

We list 10 of the most common mistakes parents make when they’re new to the school run.

Complaining to the teacher − based on what your child told you You take what your child has said as gospel, march into see the teacher, only to fall flat on your face when you discover your little one has got completely the wrong end of the stick. Even the most switched on, truthful child can mishear or misunderstand sometimes!

Not helping at school; or doing so for the wrong reasons Volunteering for the Parent Teacher Association is an ideal way to make friends and feel that you’re a part of the school community. You might also be able to assist in class as a volunteer − just don’t do it to snoop on who gets up to what in there!

Sweating the small stuff An interest in how your child is doing is healthy but getting overly wrapped up with the minutiae of reading levels is less so. Who could tackle the hardest spellings at the age of five will not go on their CV, after all.

Getting embroiled in school gate competitiveness Engaging with the competitive parent at the school gate is a lose-lose situation. If your child is ahead of hers, she’ll hate you for it. If hers has one up on yours, you’ll end up inwardly fuming at her smugness. 14 Families Upon Thames

Freaking out about friendship fallouts Reception children switch friends quicker than you can ask ‘who’s your best buddy?’ It’s completely normal and bust-ups are quickly forgotten.

Tackling other parents about problems between kids Some little horror has been merciless to your child and your protective instincts are kicking in. But do not head over

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to give the other mum what for. She could have a different version of events and you’re unlikely to change her mind about who said or did what to whom. There’s also scope for a parental fallout that will endure long after the kids make up. Cue an awkward few years at the school gate…

Forgetting the teacher has 29 other students to look after At ‘big school’, you aren’t going to be able to have the daily chat with staff you might have been used to at nursery or with a childminder. There could be 30 children in the class and if every parent asked for that ‘quick five minute catch up’ on a daily basis, ‘Miss’ would be there for two and a half hours!

Expecting your child to be chatty at 3pm Even little ones who were fine with full-time nursery can have the stuffing knocked out of them

by starting school. With so much to learn, by home time many reception kids are exhausted.

Focusing on whether they know their letters before they start but not worrying about getting their coat or shoes on Ask a reception teacher what they would like their new pupils to be able to do and it probably won’t be knowing letters or numbers. What they would like is for your child to be able to dress and undress for PE, use the loo independently and maybe recognise their name on their coat peg and belongings.

Not naming anything of use or importance! There’s a black hole in every primary school into which children’s belongings fall, never to be seen again. If you want to maximise your chances of getting lost items back, add their name to everything.

Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including ‘New Old-fashioned Parenting’ and ‘How to Unplug Your Child’ (both published by Summersdale) and ‘Raising Children: The Primary Years’ (Pearson). familiesonline.co.uk

Small Class Sizes

Family Ethos

An all-round education

Competitive Fees

Independent Co-Ed

Staines Preparatory School @stainesprep

3 - 11 Years

stainesprep.co.uk

01784 450909 info@stainesprep.co.uk 3 Gresham Road, Staines TW18 2BT

Call us any time to book a personal tour.

www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk

EDUCATION FOCUS AUTUMN 2017 Inspiring a Love of Learning

Passion for learning Preparation for life

Scholarships available

OPEN MORNINGS: TUESDAY 26th SEPTEMBER 11.00-1.00 SATURDAY 30th SEPTEMBER 10.00-1.00 WEDNESDAY 11th OCTOBER 11.00-1.00

THAMES CHRISTIAN SCHOOL PRESENTS SMOKEY JOE’S CAFÉ Pupils from Thames Christian School in Battersea took to the stage to perform the musical revue, Smokey Joe’s Café at The Grand in Clapham Junction. The school’s production showcased the incredible musical talent of its pupils and brought much laughter to the house with some hilarious touches added by director and choreographer, Alice Holsgrove. ‘We are so proud of all our pupils,’ said Head Dr Stephen Holsgrove. ‘They put on some dynamic performances bursting with energy and powered their way through its hits to provide non-stop musical entertainment. They have worked incredibly hard as a team throughout rehearsals and it is a pleasure to see

how far they have progressed in both dancing and singing.’ The show was well attended by parents as well as pupils from two local primary schools who came along to be inspired for their own productions.

For further information, visit www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk For full list of open mornings, enrolment and fee details contact 020 7228 3933 Thames Christian College, London SW11 2HB

Snappy Tag - as easy as 1,2,3

Five minutes’ walk from Clapham Junction

11 PLUS TUITION

Mrs Jones EDUCATION

Y4 & Y5 COURSES 2017 & 2018 Limited Space Book Now

Here’s one busy mum’s experience with Snappy Tag…

My nickname is Lastminute.com Mum in my son’s playground. There are so many little jobs that need doing that my ‘to do’ list is constantly growing and the ‘clothes labelling’ task was always being shifted down the priority scale and it eventually dropped off my list altogether! When Snappy Tag asked if I would like to try out their labelling system I decided to give it a go. With my son’s school uniform and armed with my tags and the

Snappy Tag applicator I set to work. I very soon discovered, to my great delight, that the Snappy Tag solution really was easy. And not only that, I would never have to name a school item again, as my son proved to be fully capable of operating this little gem himself! After reading through the instructions together, off he went: push, snap, clicked on.

To solve all your name labelling problems, visit www.snappytags.co.uk

Highly Experienced Graduate Teachers EXCELLENT RESULTS

Call us to book your child’s place

0208 390 6076 South West London

11 PLUS

MOCK EXAMS State Grammar and Private Schools Mathematics, English, Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning, Cloze Procedure and Exam Technique

www.11plustuition.co.uk www.11plusmockexam.co.uk 16 Families Upon Thames

A one snap solution - they’re re-usable too! “A truly wonderful product—Snappy Tags takes the hassle and pain out of labelling.” www.verymummy.com

www.snappytags.co.uk

Keep Tabs on their clothes Recommended by

Tel: (01430) 819002 familiesonline.co.uk

Feltonfleet School

OPEN DAY LISTINGS AUTUMN TERM 2017

Cobham, Surrey, KT11 1DR “Where individuals really matter”

FELTONFLEET SCHOOL Saturday, 30 September

9.30am to 12.00pm

For further information, call 01932 862264.

An independent day, weekly and flexi boarding school for boys and girls aged 3-13.

‘Pupils display a maturity, vivacity and sense of fun…. Fab facilities…. A breath of fresh air.’ The Good Schools Guide 2016 ‘A wonderful sense of vibrancy and strong academic focus.’ Tatler 2017

HAMPTON PRE-PREP & PREP SCHOOL Friday, 6 October

9.30am to 11.00am

Friday, 3 November

9.30am to 11.00am

‘Excellent’ in every way. ISI Inspection 2013

For further information or to reserve a place, call 020 8979 1844. KINGSTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL Information Evening Thursday, 28 September

7.00pm to 9.00pm

Open Day Saturday, 30 September

9.30am to 2.30pm

Sixth Form Open Evening Tuesday, 10 October

5.30pm to 7.00pm

Group Tours are also available throughout the Autumn term. Please book at www.kgs.org.uk/admissions/open-events LEH (Lady Eleanor Holles Junior School) Saturday, 7 October For further information or to reserve a place, visit www.lehs.org.uk NEWLAND HOUSE SCHOOL

25 acres of Surrey countryside, with a comprehensive bus service from Surrey and South West London

Open Morning Saturday 30th September 2017, 9.30am until 12 midday

Welcome Mornings Friday, 22 September

For further details contact

Friday, 3 November

Mrs Jackie Williams, Registrar

Friday, 1 December Please call 020 8865 1305 to book or to arrange an individual appointment; individual appointments for the Pre-Prep, Prep and

01932 862264 admissions@feltonfleet.co.uk

Bursaries of up to 100% of the school fees are available for those meeting eligibility criteria

Nursery are available on Monday and Wednesday mornings.

☛

STAINES PREPARATORY SCHOOL Please call 01784 450909 to book a personal tour. ST GEORGE’S WEYBRIDGE Nursery and Junior School Friday, 29 September Saturday, 30 September College and Sixth Form Saturday, 30 September For further information and to book call 01932 839437. THAMES CHRISTIAN COLLEGE Open Mornings Tuesday, 26 September

11.00am to 1.00pm

Saturday, 30 September

10.00am to 1.00pm

Wednesday, 11 October

11.00am to 1.00pm

For further information, call 020 7228 3933. THE MALL SCHOOL Open Mornings Wednesday, 20 September Saturday, 7 October

9.00am 9.30am to 12.00pm

7+ and 8+ Entry Open Morning Tuesday, 31 October

9.30am

4+ Entry Open Monring Wednesday, 8 November

9.00am

Nursery & Junior School

College & Sixth Form

29 & 30 September 2017

30 September 2017

Call 01932 839437 Book now at www.stgeorgesweybridge.com

To book your place please call 020 8614 1082. TWICKENHAM PREPARATORY SCHOOL Pre-Prep Thursday, 12 October

OPEN MORNINGS

9.30am to 10.45am

Leading independent co-educational Roman Catholic day schools in Surrey offering a values-led education for 3 to 18 year olds.

Please call 020 8979 6216 to reserve a place. A Registered Educational Charity No.1017853

familiesonline.co.uk

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CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES ART & CRAFT

CERAMICS CAFÉ KEW Ages: All Children have the opportunity to create something unique. Starting with a plain white bisque shape, they paint on their design using ceramic under-glazes, it is then fired inhousehold the kiln,materials. and their For piece age 5+, recycled is ready for collection within 2 to free, sessions at 10.30am, 1 and 3pm. 4 days. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 7Mondays Apr KNOTS ROPES Learn how to on&Bank Holidays and tie a variety of knots using different matehalf terms. In: and Kewmake your own skipping rope in rials Contact: Joanna Wronka this free family workshop. For age 5+ at 020 8332 6661 10.30am, 1 and 3pm. www.ceramicscafe.com

BABY &WAR CHILD IMPERIAL MUSEUM DEVELOPMENT

SE1 6HZ www.iwm.org.uk GYMBOREE PLAY & MUSIC EXHIBITIONS: Ages: 0−5 Film, photographs and a HOLOCAUST Award winning Play and Learn, large number of rare artefacts document Art, Music and Sensory Play for the historyClasses of the Nazi babies. arepersecution designedof the Jews and otheringroups and during by experts earlybefore childhood development young the Second World to War.help For ages 14+ as theyExplores play, the Achildren FAMILY learn IN WARTIME andofteach fun and lives Williamgrown-ups and Alice Allpress and interesting their ten children and what life in London ways to engage with them! was like trial duringclass! Check the war. FREE with SECRET The clandestine world of centresWAR for details. Baby Massage classes for espionage, covert operations and the work to age 1 year with a ofnewborns Britain’s Special Forces. fully trained instructor. FIRST WORLD IAIM WAR Discover the story Gymboree Play & Music Surbiton of the war - Over 1,300 objects including are thrilled to have refurbished uniforms, diaries, letters and weapons, and now use brand-new souvenirs, will be display as wellWith as a equipment in on their classes.

AS SEEN ON

different play opportunities and ways for learning, book your free trial to experience it today. In: St Margarets, Surbiton, Walton Contact: St Margarets: 020 8607 9995, stmargarets@gymboree-uk.com Easter giant duck 8007, hunt at Surbiton: 020 3609 THE WETLANDS CENTRE surbiton@gymboree-uk.com Walton: 01932 221371, waltononthames@gymboree-uk.com recreated trench with periscopes and a www.gymboreeclasses.co.uk dug-out, along with a soundscape and projection will evoke what daily life was DANCE like for the troops.

ELIZABETH JAMES DANCE Every Sat and Sun OBJECT ACADEMY CONVERSATIONS Ages: 18mths−14New immersive object Fun andsessions vibrantwhere lessons thatcan handling families nurture talentfrom andtheencourage explore objects collections- feel self-expression alongpiece the from way.the the weight of a shrapnel Ballet students follow the RAD First World War and come to grips with syllabus and train to exam real objects.Pre-school Drop-in, free,classes for all ages. standard. follow 11am - 12.30pm and 2and - 4pm. imaginative stories themes. Street Dance classes are bursting NATIONAL GALLERY with energy and attitude and are

MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN!

DISCOVER From Baby to Ballerina

RUGBYTOTS

Classes for Boys and Girls aged 21/2 to 16 years old Our dynamic weekly play sessions Ballet, Pointe Work, Jazz, Tap, Annual Performances enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment. For more details, just call or email:

0345 313 3242

enquiries@rugbytots.co.uk

rugbytots.co.uk

Classes held in: The world’s favourite rugby play programme Bayswater, Notting Hill Gate, Oxford Street, Shepherds Bush and South Kensington

18 Families Upon Thames

Contact: Annie 020 8408 0245 contact@dramacube.co.uk www.dramacubeproductions.co.uk JIGSAW PERFORMING ARTS Ages: 3−18 Jigsaw Performing Arts is dedicated to developing performance skills, promoting self-expression and building confidence through fun drama, singing and dance classes. Two-week trial available. NEW school in Surbiton. Venues: Surbiton Contact: 020 8447 4530 loved by boys and girls. All are www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk welcome! FREE taster classes available before enrolling. PERFORM NEW: more ballet and street dance Ages: 4−12 classes at all locations and fabulous Confidence building fun through a unique mix of drama, dance dance parties for all occasions. and singing specially formulated In: Richmond Hill, Kew, to bring out every child’s true St Margarets potential. Classes are kept small to Contact: Suze Bailey ensure lots of individual attention. 07815 289306 suze@elizabethjamesdanceacademy.co.uk Perform offers no-obligation FREE www.elizabethjamesdanceacademy.co.uk trial sessions for newcomers. The Autumn term runs from JUST IMAGINE BALLET Saturday 2 September to Sunday Ages: All 17 December. Just Imagine Ballet is an Venues: Esher, Hampton, Isleworth, inclusive ballet and dance school Kew, Kingston, Richmond, for all ages and abilities. Just Surbiton, Teddington, Twickenham, Imagine values creativity and Weybridge Contact: expression and focuses on the 020 7255 9120 healing and nurturing aspects of enquiries@perform.org.uk the creative arts. Children can www.perform.org.uk progress through four separate ballet programmes created to be in PYJAMA DRAMA Ages: 2–7 line with their physical, emotional and social development and aligned Classes for 2 to 5-year-olds see an exciting fusion of action songs, with the National Curriculum key game-play and child-led improvisastages. Glimmer (0−18 months), tion which transport your child Twinkle (18 months−5 years), on a unique journey using their Sparkle (6−10 years), Dazzle (11+ imaginations. In the classes for 5 years). Plus: Tap, Contemporary, to 7-year-olds, while imagination Street, Jazz, Character Dance, still takes centre stage, there is Classical RAD Ballet, Boys Only more focus on practical drama Ballet, Family Dance/Homeschool skills such as role play. Each week Classes, Holliday Camps, Birthday has a themed story, games and a Parties, Adult, Silver Swans Dance drama/acting skill to learn. Classes (60+ years) and SHINE (SEN Dance support a child’s development in classes, workshops and one2one concentration, communication, sessions with a Dance Therapist). cooperation and confidence and In: Richmond, East Twickenham, complement the KS1 Curriculum. St Margarets, Teddington, East In: Cobham, East Molesey, Hersham, Sheen, Kew Ashtead, Claygate, Walton Contact: The Fairy Godmother or Contact: Vicky Campbell-Hall Miss Jessica, Principal 01932 807150 07813 741189 vicky@pyjamadrama.com info@justimagineballet.com www.pyjamadrama.com www.facebook.com/ JustImagineBalletLondon STAGECOACH PERFORMING ARTS Ages: 4−18 DRAMA Fun, educational and confidenceDRAMACUBE PRODUCTIONS boosting classes in singing, Ages: 7−14 dancing and drama, which cater Dramacube produces two major for the varying needs of young musicals for children aged 7 to 14 each year which are fully supported performers, whether reserved or by a team of industry professionals budding talents. Classes focus on the Performing Arts and including directors, choreograhaving fun in a structured safe phers, musical directors, set and environment, whilst learning life costume designers, sound and skills to prepare them for the stage lighting technicians and stage of life. Two-week trial available. management. Performances take place at venues including Hampton In: Chertsey, Cobham, Hinchley Wood, Kew, New Malden, Ric Hill Theatre, Epsom Playhouse, hmond, Staines, Teddington & The Watermans Arts Centre and Twickenham, Weybridge Questions Theatre. Contact: Chertsey: 0772 517 6102 Venues: Hampton Hill, Kingston, Cobham: 020 3723 9702 Twickenham familiesonline.co.uk

CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES Hinchley Wood: 01372 238238 Kew: 020 8487 1456 New Malden: 020 8540 7791 Richmond: 020 8332 6741 Staines: 07802 800633 Teddington & Twickenham: 020 8977 0843 Weybridge: 0808 208 5134 www.stagecoach.co.uk

Wednesday morning. 90-minute party packages available. FREE parking. Open Mon to Fri 10am−3pm term time, half term and some school holidays. In: Hampton Contact: Sarah Long 07949 135211 info@sunshineplaycafe.co.uk www.sunshineplaycafe.co.uk

MUSIC

MONKEY MUSIC Ages: 3mths−4 Award-winning pre-school music classes for babies and children. Through a four-stage curriculum in age appropriate classes, children will develop a lifetime love for music. Book a FREE class to experience all the fun yourselves! In: Kingston, Surbiton, Weybridge, Cobham, Hersham, Walton, Molesey, Kew, Richmond, Twickenham and Teddington Contact: Kingston and Surbiton: 020 8224 3971 Weybridge, Cobham, Hersham, Walton and Molesey: 020 8224 0096 Kew, Richmond, Twickenham and Teddington: 020 8847 4031 www.monkeymusic.co.uk PIANO LESSONS WITH ALEKSANDRA TIMAROV For Ages: 5+ Motivational, fun and age-appropriate piano lessons to suit and inspire each student,

SPORT

COERVER® FOOTBALL PERFORMANCE ACADEMY working in partnership with the AND FIRST SKILLS parents, plus exam, festival and Ages: 5−7 (First Skills) & 7−16 audition preparation. (Performance Academy) CRB and DBS certificate, full CV Player development programme and references on request. for boys and girls, teaching FREE trial lesson available. game-effective technical football In: Kingston skills – based on World’s No.1 Contact: Aleksandra Timarov Soccer Skills Teaching Method. 07588 690909 Learn to play like the best players in aleksandra.timarov@gmail.com the world and improve your child’s personal skills, such as confidence, PLAY CAFES AND creativity and teamwork. FREE trial session for new players. SOFT PLAY In: Hounslow (Performance Academy SUNSHINE PLAY CAFE Ages: 0−5 only), Kingston (Performance Activities include craft tables, cosy Academy & First Skills) book corner, bouncy castle, train Contact: Matt Suggitt track, ride-on toys, dolls, soft toys, 02035442284 a baby area with play mats and soft westlondon@coerver.co.uk toys. Fresh coffee, hot chocolate, www.coerver.co.uk/westlondon teas, soft drinks, homemade FOOTIE TOTS Ages: Footie Tots (2.5−5), cakes, sandwiches, hot and cold Footie Wizards (5−13) food, children’s lunchboxes and complimentary magazines available. An introduction to the world of fitness and football with lots of goal Crafty Tales sessions every

scoring and fun along the way! Classes encourage the children to lead an active and healthy lifestyle from a young age. All classes indoors. In: Hampton, Twickenham, Teddington, Thames Ditton, Hinchley Wood, Molesey Contact: Andy Scates 07931 707720/020 8979 1497 andy@footie-tots.co.uk www.footie-tots.co.uk KIDDIKICKS FOOTBALL CLASSES Ages: 18mths−10 Kiddikicks coaches real skills in a super-fun environment, encouraging a healthy lifestyle through participation in sport whilst developing a love for the beautiful game! Parties also offered. Quote FUT for a FREE trial, available to all new players! In: East Molesey, North Kingston, Byfleet, Pyrford, Weybridge, Twickenham, Whitton, Isleworth, Feltham, Hampton, Richmond, Sheen, Barnes and Brentford Contact: East Molesey, North Kingston, Byfleet, Pyrford, Weybridge: Jen, 020 3560 9256 Twickenham, Whitton, Isleworth, Feltham, Hampton: 020 7937 7965 Richmond, Sheen, Barnes, Brentford: Sarah, 020 7937 7965 www.kiddikicks.co.uk RUGBYTOTS Ages: 2−7 Fun, enthusiastic, weekly play programme which uses age range 18 months - 10 years

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

Check us out on

Musical Theatre Productions Musical For 7-14yrs Theatre Productions For 7-14yrs Musical Theatre Productions

AUDITIONS AUDITIONS SAT 9 AUDITIONS SAT 9 OR OR WED WED 13 13 SEPT SEPT 2017 2017

For 7-14yrs

Join our Kingston, Hampton Hill or Twickenham cast SAT OR WED 13HillSEPT 2017cast Join our9 Kingston, Hampton or Twickenham Performances 21st - 23rd December Performances 21st 23rd December Join our Kingston, Hampton Hill or Twickenham cast Performances 21st - 23rd December To book your audition contact: To book your audition contact: 020 8408 0245 or contact@dramacube.co.uk 020 8408your 0245audition or contact@dramacube.co.uk To book contact: www.dramacubeproductions.co.uk www.dramacubeproductions.co.uk 020 8408Fees 0245 or contact@dramacube.co.uk Production Apply Production Fees Apply www.dramacubeproductions.co.uk DramacubeProductions @Dramacubeshows Dramacube Dramacube Productions DramacubeProductions

@Dramacubeshows

Dramacube

DramacubeProductions

@Dramacubeshows

Dramacube

Production Fees Apply

Annie Jr. Book by Thomas Meehan. Music by Charles Strouse. Lyrics by Martin Charnin. This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Joseph Weinberger Ltd Annie Jr. Book by Thomas Meehan. Music by Charles Strouse. Lyrics by Martin Charnin. This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Joseph Weinberger Ltd Annie Jr. Book by Thomas Meehan. Music by Charles Strouse. Lyrics by Martin Charnin. This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Joseph Weinberger Ltd

familiesonline.co.uk

Dramacube Productions

PROUD TO SUPPORT

Facebook + Twitter

for regular Competitions and Discount Codes @kiddikicks KiddikicksHQ

try us for free

CRB checked and FA qualified coaches Training sessions, courses and parties across London get in touch with your local kiddikicks for details Quote F.U.T for a FREE TRIAL

Kiddikicks HQ

NW Surrey

Includes Richmond, Twickenham, Sheen, Brentford and Chiswick

Includes Kingston, Weybridge, Pyrford, Byfleet and East Molesey

020 7937 7965

01932 489335

www.kiddikicks.co.uk

nwsurrey.kiddikicks.co.uk

Families Upon Thames 19

CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

rugby specific skills to aid the development of young children. The programme develops physical and social attributes and teaches basic rugby skills, including running with the ball, kicking, catching and scoring a try. Age-appropriate classes and highly trained coaches who get the best out of the children in a safe, organised, friendly environment. In: Twickenham, Barnes, Putney,

Surbiton, Richmond, Hampton, Sunbury Contact: 0345 313 3242 enquiries@rugbytots.co.uk www.rugbytots.co.uk SPORTS ACADEMY UK Ages: 4−16 A wide range of sporting activities to encourage and develop students to enable them to grow both as athletes and individuals. Sports during the Autumn term include basketball, dodgeball, gymnastics, martial arts and tambourelli. In: Richmond, Surbiton Contact: 0800 024 8842 07764 211489 grant@sportsacademyuk.com www.sportsacademyuk.com

SWIMMING

EVERYONE ACTIVE: SWIMMING LESSONS Ages: 4mths+ Classes available every day and run by Swim England qualified

teachers. FREE swimming when enrolled on lessons. In: Spelthorne, Sunbury Contact: Spelthorne: 01784 493493 Sunbury: 01932 772287 www.everyoneactive.com/activity/ swimming-lessons TEAM SWIM SCHOOL Ages: 2.5yrs+ Swimming lessons for all abilities and ages. Fun and engaging classes for non-swimmers, as well as taxing for stroke improvers. Children enjoy the whole pool, not just sectioned areas. NEW from September: Water Polo for kids – Stage 4 swimmers and above. Contact the school to register interest. Small groups, great results. In: Cobham Contact: Paul Furness 07915510720 info@teamswimschool.com www.teamswimschool.com

WATER BABIES Ages: 0−4 An incredible sensation of freedom and empowerment. Babies have a real affinity with water and because they’ve spent 9 months floating in the womb, being in warm water feels much more familiar to them than being on dry land. However, this early confidence usually diminishes with time and can even turn to fear. That’s one of the main reasons why Water Babies believes in starting them young. But a baby never swims against their wishes, and lots of bonding, fun and socialising is always incorporated so you can be sure that a Water Baby is a happy baby. In: Chessington, Kingston, Morden, Shepperton, Richmond, Surbiton, West Horsley, Woking, Godalming, Cobham, Farnham, Addlestone Contact: Melissa Holt 01932 227 428 underthewaves@waterbabies.co.uk www.waterbabies.co.uk

Just Imagine Ballet

Twinkle Ballet 15 months 5 years old -

A r n g s a e r i KINGSTON, SURBITON AND THAMES DITTON KINGSTON, SURBITON AND THAMES DITTON E: kingston.surbiton@monkeymusic.co.uk E:0208 kingston.surbiton@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 224 3971

T: 0208 224 3971

RICHMOND, TWICKENHAM AND TEDDINGTON E: kew.teddington@monkeymusic.co.uk RICHMOND, TWICKENHAM AND T: 0208 847 4031

TEDDINGTON E: kew.teddington@monkeymusic.co.uk WEYBRIDGE, MOLESEY AND COBHAM T: 0208 847 4031 E: weybridge.cobham@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 0208 224 0096

WEYBRIDGE, MOLESEY AND COBHAM

BANSTEAD, ESHER AND CLAYGATE E: weybridge.cobham@monkeymusic.co.uk E: banstead.claygate@monkeymusic.co.uk T:01932 0208 T: 223224 309 0096

Sparkle Ballet

Dazzle Ballet

6 - 11 years old 11 - 18 years old Our pupils perform at The Royal Ballet School

07879 521 456 info@twinkletoesballet.com RICHMOND - ST MARGARETS - TWICKENHAM KEW - EAST SHEEN - TEDDINGTON

NEW - RAD Classical Program - optional exams Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools

NEW IN: OL SCHO

n Surbito ✴ ✴ ✴

3–18 years

TWO WEEK TRIAL AVAILABLE!

020 8447 4530 www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk 20 Families Upon Thames

familiesonline.co.uk

CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes spark the imagination

Perform is a unique children’s drama school that has a special emphasis on child development. Perform uses a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s full potential. Run by highly experienced actor-teachers, in small groups, Perform classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Coordination, and Concentration.

The perform curriculum ensures plenty of fun, using a mix of energetic games, catchy songs and funky dances. All class materials are written by Perform, with apps, CDs and videos that the children can play at home to keep the magic alive. Each term sees a brand-new theme to keep imaginations buzzing. This autumn, 4 to 7 year olds will be venturing Under the Sea on a colourful aquatic adventure while 7 to 12 year olds will be working the rocktastic fairytale adaptation, Cinderella Rocks. Perform offers no-obligation, FREE trial sessions for newcomers. To book a FREE class today, visit www.perform.org.uk/try

The Perfect Weekend Activity This Autumn with Jigsaw Arts

Perform’s half term Wizard of Oz themed dance, drama and singing courses for 4-7s

Why not inspire your child’s imagination this October half term and book them into one of Perform’s unique holiday courses? On these one and three-day courses, the children will enter a world of musical fantasy as they re-enact the much-loved story of the Wizard of Oz. The courses take place at Kew Community Centre in Kew from 23 to 25 October. To book a place or find out more, visit www.perform.org.uk/holidays

Maisy’s Children’s Parties building confidence through play

Tiny Tots, Classic, Adventure or Arty Crafts we have a variety of parties to suit all ages and interests from 1-12 years! Themed Parties Magical Adventures Musical Games Interactive Magic Lots of Fun & Giggles

Quote FUT for 10% discount in September 2017

We love to talk parties so give us a call or pop us an email

020 8123 6484/07779 096129 info@maisys-childrens-parties.co.uk Richmond, Kingston, Surrey & SW London

A new school year is here, which means that children across London and the Home Counties are taking to the stage as Jigsaw begins an exciting new term of drama, singing and dance classes; the perfect activity to escape the cold, wet weekends. familiesonline.co.uk

Performing arts classes are an excellent way to build confidence and social skills and are lots of fun. For more information or to book a two-week trial, call 020 8447 4530 or visit www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk Families Upon Thames 21

CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

How the Coerver® Coaching System of Player Development Works! Coerver® Coaching was founded in 1984, and in the years that followed has influenced the way that young players around the world learn technical football skills.

The Coerver® Coaching System of Player Development consists of the Coerver® Code, Coerver® Pyramid of Player Development, Coerver® Session Planner and Coerver® Skills Bridge. The Coerver® Code explains its mission to develop skilled, confident, creative players (boys and girls) who combine well with teammates and have the skills to go it alone. Coerver® wants all of its players to combine Skill, Speed, Sense, Strength and Speed – the 5 ‘S’ model. The Coerver® Session Planner & Skills Bridge is how its highly trained coaches teach the players during each session. The journey starts with players mastering the individual core skills needed to excel at football in any position. Then using competition, and a variety of ways to stretch players (increasing or decreasing the difficulty), players progress to being able to use these skills successfully in the game. The topics taught are in its Pyramid of Player Development. These topics are related to football but also provide players

with the opportunity to learn personal life skills. Ball Mastery is the ball repetition exercises, performed on both feet, to improve all core skills. Players learn concentration and self-discipline of individual practise. Receiving and Passing games and exercises are used to improve first touch and to encourage accurate and creative passing. This part of the pyramid will improve a young person’s communication. 1v1 Attacking and Defending teaches players game winning individual moves to create space against packed

Award winning classes from newborn to 5 years

defences or in defensive positions. Players will gain confidence from practise and success in these one-on-one scenarios. Speed games and exercises will improve a player’s agility, acceleration and power with and without the ball. Speed is a key ingredient in football and the

Coerver® Coaching is the ‘World’s No.1 Soccer Skills Teaching Method’ and its coaching system has been developed over the past 33 years. Players aged 5 to 15 can experience the Coerver® method explained above at its Performance Academy centres in Kingston and Hounslow. To find out more about, visit www.coerver.co.uk/westlondon

Book a FREE trial class today! Gymboree Walton on Thames 01932 221 371

waltononthames@gymboree-uk.com

with K on fd

2013 winner!

‘Best national pre-schooler development activity’

w .w h

020 3609 8007

surbiton@gymboree-uk.com

Gymboree St Margarets

Classes in:

ASHTEAD, COBHAM, CLAYGATE, HERSHAM, WALTON Contact Vicky on or email

vicky@pyjamadrama.com

020 8607 9995

stmargarets@gymboree-uk.com .u k

22 Families Upon Thames

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

ion iat

ce en

Gymboree Surbiton c so

sessions teach players about competition and how to win and lose with humility. Finishing exercises are used to improve creation of goal scoring chances by focusing on play around the goal, and the technique of scoring goals. While helping to improve creativity, these finishing sessions also promote players taking responsibility for scoring goals. Group Play completes the pyramid and brings together all other segments mentioned above. The coaching philosophy focuses on developing the skills of every individual player first, and then teaching players how to play together in small groups. Through this method Coerver® is able to teach co-operation and teamwork between players from different backgrounds.

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

gymboree-uk.com

familiesonline.co.uk

CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

Annie Auditions at Dramacube!

Dramacube’s 2017 Christmas production will be Annie Jr, with free workshop auditions taking place in Kingston and Hampton Hill on 9 and 13 September. Dramacube produces two major musicals for children aged 7 to 14 each year which are fully supported by a team of industry professionals including set and costume designers, sound and lighting technicians and stage management. Dramacube selects shows with strong characters, fun routines, brilliant music and with large casts which means every actor is fully involved throughout the show. Rehearsal locations are in Hampton Hill, Kingston and Twickenham and children are guided by a professional musical director, choreographer and director on every show. Performing rights are purchased from leading licencing agents such as Music Theatre International to ensure the young actors work on scripts which are both commercially successful and appropriate to their age group. Shows are performed at purpose-built professional theatres including Epsom Playhouse, Hampton Hill Theatre, The Waterman’s Arts Centre and Questors Theatre.

Annie JR will be performed at Hampton Hill Theatre in December. Project fees apply to those cast in the show. To book your child’s free workshop audition email contact@dramacube.co.uk or call 020 8408 0245. For more information, visit www.dramacubeproductions.co.uk Indoor soft play for Under 5’s

Sunshine Play Cafe i Crafts, Toys, Open Mon-FrTim e, rm 10am-3pm, Te Occ. Hols Bouncy Castle! d Books, Magazines and Half Term an

Baby Play Area. Hot drinks. Homemade cakes, hot and cold food and kids lunchboxes For More Info, Check Website: www.sunshineplaycafe.co.uk or Call Sarah: 07949 135 211/Poochie66@hotmail.co.uk We Can Orgainise Your Party Too! Twickenham RFC South Rd, Hampton TW12 3PE. Free Parking

Ceramics Café Kew Original Ceramics - Painted By You Studio Hours: Tues-Sat 10am-6pm Sunday 11am-6pm Closed Mon, except Bank Holidays and Half Terms www.ceramicscafe.com Tel: 020 8332 6661

1a Mortlake Terrace, Kew Green Richmond TW9 3DT

FOOTIE TOTS THE PERFORMANCE ACADEMY IS THE UK’S PREMIER GRASSROOTS PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME FOR BOYS & GIRLS AGED 7-17 YEARS OLD. UPON SUCESSFUL TRIAL AND INVITATION TO JOIN OUR PROGRAMME, ALL MEMBERS RECEIVE AN UNRIVALLED LEVEL OF INDIVIDUAL SUPPORT BOTH ON AND OFF THE TRAINING FIELD.

BOOK YOUR

FREE!

TRIAL SESSION NOW!

HOUNSLOW

KINGSTON

THE HEATHLANDS SCHOOL WELLINGTON ROAD SOUTH T W4 5JD

TIFFIN BOY’S SCHOOL LONDON ROAD K T2 6NH

TELEPHONE US! 020 3544 2284

EMAIL US! WESTLONDON@COERVER.CO.UK

MONDAYS

TUESDAYS & FRIDAYS

@coer verEW

familiesonline.co.uk

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

FOOTIE WIZARDS For children ages 5 to 8

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

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

Families Upon Thames 23

CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

Learn to swim with Everyone Active WEEKLY

LOCAL

CLASSES

Why should your child learn to swim? Swimming is lots of fun for people of all ages and also provides loads of health benefits which can help to keep you and your children healthy and happy at the same time. What’s more, swimming is the only sport which can save your child’s life. Drowning is still one of the most common causes of accidental death in children, so being able to swim is an essential life-saving skill. To find out more about learning to swim at your local leisure centre, visit www.everyoneactive.com

Fre Book e Assessm e your c hild nnt ow!

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

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

01932 227 428

Warm water Max 5 children in a group Teachers in the water Dry Coffee area UV filtered water Adult lessons Private Car Parking

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

waterbabies.co.uk

07915 510720

info@teamswimschool.com www.teamswimschool.com

Can your Child swim? AWARD WINNING SWIMMING LESSONS SWIM ENGLAND QUALIFIED TEACHERS LEARN FROM FOUR MONTHS OLD CLASSES AVAILABLE UP TO SEVEN DAYS A WEEK LOW MONTHLY COST FREE SWIMMING WHEN ENROLLED ON LESSONS

Spelthorne Leisure Centre

01784 493493

Book your child’s place today!

Sunbury Leisure Centre

01932 772287

Everyone Active manages these facilities in partnership with Spelthorne Borough Council.

Visit www.everyoneactive.com/activity/swimming-lessons to sign up today! 9460_Spelthorne_Families 24 Families Upon Thames Upon Thames Advert_September.indd 1

03/08/2017 15:28 familiesonline.co.uk

WHAT’S ON & where EVERY WED DURING TERM TIME PANDEMONIUM AT WATERMANS ART CENTRE 40 High St, Brentford TW8 0DS For Ages: 0-2 & 2-4 Cost: £5 A popular, drop-in musical workshop with plenty of fun and games, a brilliant way to introduce music to your children and to make new friends. 020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk EVERY WED MORNING PARENT AND BABY CINEMA AT WATERMANS ART CENTRE 40 High St, Brentford TW8 0DS Times: 11.30am Cost: £6.50 Screenings of current films for parents or carers with babies under one. 020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk EVERY SAT MORNING FAMILY CINEMA AT WATERMANS ART CENTRE 40 High St, Brentford TW8 0DS Times: 11am Cost: £5 per person Your favourite family films old and new, on the big screen. See website for details. 020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk UNTIL 29 OCT THE MAGIC GARDEN AT HAMPTON COURT PALACE East Molesey KT8 9AU Cost: FREE with Palace Admission Enjoy a unique way to explore the palace’s past as you come face-to-face with mysterious mythical beasts, storm the battlements, besiege the towers and explore the secret grotto. 0844 482 7799 www.hrp.org.uk 8 SEP BAT WALK AT CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG For Ages: 6+ Time: 7.15-9.15pm Cost: Adult £10 Child £5 Learn about Claremon’t species of bats and use a bat detector to hear the sound they make as they fly. 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremontlandscape-garden 9 SEP HERITAGE OPEN DAY AT PAINSHILL PARK Portsmouth Road, Cobham KT11 1JE Time: 10am-6pm Cost: FREE Enjoy free entry to the beautiful 18th century landscape garden for Heritage Open Day. 01932 868 113 www.painshill.co.uk HERITAGE OPEN DAY AT POLESDEN LACY Great Bookham, near Dorking RH5 6BD familiesonline.co.uk

Cost: Normal Admission Time: 10am-5pm Enjoy free entry to the stunning house and grounds for Heritage Open Day. Normal car park charges apply. 01372 452048 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ polesden-lacey 9,16 & 23 SEP BAT WALKS AT OSTERLEY PARK Jersey Road, Isleworth TW7 4RB For Ages: 5+ Time: 7.30-8.30pm Cost: Adult £7.50 Child £4 Discover the seven species of bats that make Osterley Park their home and learn more about these nocturnal creatures from the rangers. 020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterleypark 10 SEP HERITAGE OPEN DAY AT SEMAPHORE TOWER Ockham Common, KT11 1NA Time: 10am-3pm Cost: FREE Climb the tower and enjoy beautiful views across the surrounding countryside. 020 8232 5050 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/osterleypark

Mister Maker and The Shapes Live! at Richmond Theatre

Join CBeebies’ Mister Maker in his hit live theatre tour at Richmond Theatre (17 September at 1.30pm and 4.30pm). With art at its heart, this fantastic live show encourages Mini Makers and grown-ups to sing, dance and make some noise! Mister Maker and The Shapes will also be joined by a team of all-singing, all-dancing friends! This talented cast will really make this an interactive arty adventure fun for all the family! There’s a big ‘make’ to take part in, lots of audience participation and....The Shapes!

Yes, you’ll be able to share the fun with Circle, Square, Rectangle and Triangle too! They’re busy rehearsing their dances and they hope you are too! So, Mini Makers, get ready to go on a real arty adventure and book today!

For more information and to book, visit www.atgtickets.com/richmond

12 & 13 SEP SAFARI ADVENTURE TODDLER DAY AT THE LOOK OUT DISCOVERY CENTRE Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell RG12 7QW Time: 10am-4pm Cost: Family £19.45 Enjoy Safari-themed arts and crafts, storytelling and face painting plus more than 90 hands-on science and discovery activities, all waiting to be pulled, pushed or prodded. 01344 354400 www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ thelookoutdiscoverycentre 15 SEP MUSEUM MONKEYS AT CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT For Ages: 5 and under Time: 9.30-11am Cost: £5 per child, additional siblings £2.50 Singing, stories and crafts. Book in advance. 01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org 16 SEP QUACKY RACES AT MORDEN HALL PARK Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD Time: 11am-3pm Cost: £2 plus Normal Admission

Sun 17 Sep 2017 1.30pm & 4pm

0844 871 7651* atgtickets.com/richmond*

*Fees apply. Calls cost up to 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge. Mister Maker

Families Upon Thames 25

17 SEP DOG SHOW AT HATCHLANDS PARK East Wing Hatchlands, East Clandon, Guildford GU4 7RT Time: 11am-4pm Cost: £2 per class plus Normal Admission Fun and games for your four-legged friend. 01483 222482 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ hatchlands-park MISTER MAKER AND THE SHAPES LIVE! AT RICHMOND THEATRE

The Green, Richmond TW9 1QJ Time: 1.30pm and 4.30pm With art at its heart, this fantastic live show encourages Mini Makers and grown-ups to sing, dance and make some noise! 0844 871 7654 www.atgtickets.com/richmond 24 SEP HORACE WALPOLE’S GRAND BIRTHDAY PICNIC AT STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham TW1 4ST Time: 11am-3pm Bring a hamper and blanket and celebrate Horace Walpole’s 300th birthday. There will be live music, crafts, face painting, a bouncy castle and a BBQ. 020 8744 1241 www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk 30 SEP & 1 OCT APPLE DAY WEEKEND AT MORDEN HALL PARK Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD Time: 11am-3pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Taste local Merton apple varieties and enjoy apple-themed crafts and activities. 020 8545 6850 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ morden-hall-park

To advertise your Half Term workshops and days out in our October issue call Mima Walia m: 07792 006546 e: editor@familiesuponthames.co.uk

The Look Out Discovery Centre

The Fire & Light Show 16th September 2017 - 7th January 2018 Show times are 11am, 12noon, 2pm and 3.15pm

A fun show for all the family! Amazing discoveries with fire and light.

Bring this advert to get one free child with one full paying adult*. Valid until 7/01/18 *Terms and conditions apply.

Be Amazed...

Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW

Tel: 01344 354400 www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery

Selected Dates 7th - 31st October Proudly supporting

Halloween Circus

Bocketts Farm Park 21st - 29th Oct 2017

WITCHES &

ENJOY A SPOOKTACULAR DAY OUT!

£8

PLUS: A HEAT INDOOR PLAYBAED RN! PLENTY OF FUN, WHATE VER THE WEATHER!

Wizards & Witches Quiz Trail! Hundreds of pumpkins!

Reptile Roadshow! Don’t Miss… Animal Handling, Goat Milking, Tractor Rides, Pony Rides, Go-Karting and Pig racing EVERYDAY!

www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

D AR AW

WI NN ING !

Situated in Leatherhead, Surrey. 5 minutes from J9 M25.

SPECIAL

OFFER

Valid from 1st September - 20th October 2017. Only with this voucher (*maximum 5 people).

per person

£28

Roll up, roll up for Cirque Normandie’s A spine-tingling attraction for those spooktacular Halloween circus! who like the ‘scream’ in Halloween!

Monster Meals

£4.95

£3.50 per child

per child

(allows 2 adults per ticket*)

Served between

£2.50

11am - 4pm Monday - Saturday 11am - 3pm on Sundays

per adult

An exciting opportunity to encounter Why not join us for some terrifyingly an assortment of exotic creatures. good, meal time treats. *additional adults 50p each

£1 OFF full price farm entry per person*

26 Families Upon Thames

Tickets £2

Special offer Group of 4

Spooky Zoo

Creepy crafts!

Creepy Maze

per person

WIZARDS WEEK

FAM SW

Borrow one of the plastic ducks and race it down the river to see if yours will be the fastest! 020 8545 6850 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ morden-hall-park YOUNG ARCHAEOLOLGY CLUB AT CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT For Ages: 8-16 Time: 11am and 2pm Cost: £5 per child Go around the museum on a hunting and gathering mission, identify some original animal bones and try cave painting and some carving as you go. 01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org

✃

WHAT’S ON & where

BOOK NOW: www.chessingtongardencentre.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

AUTUMN DAYS OUT

Fire your imagination at the Look Out Discovery Centre The Look Out Discovery Centre in Bracknell is a great place to visit as there is something for everyone, no matter the weather. The centre is set in 1,000 hectares of Swinley Forest and has a popular adventure play area, walks and trails. The 90 hands-on science and discovery activities are the main attraction inside – a place where children are encouraged not just to touch, but to press, pull, roll, wind up and discover science in such a way they don’t realise they are learning! Popular activities include launching the hydrogen rocket, damming the stream, building a giant house and taking a picture of your shadow. The newest addition is the Fire and Light Show (16 September to 7 January) which takes place at weekends and in Bracknell Forest school holidays (11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3.15pm). The show is full of fantastic demonstrations to fuel your imagination and don’t forget to watch out for

the tornado of fire! The show is suitable for children aged 3 to 11 and costs £1.95 per person, on top of your entry fee.

ForFor more information, the younger ones, visit whyvwww.kew.org not where visitors can enjoy extra come to the Safari Adventure activities, such as arts and Toddler Day (12 and 13 crafts, storytelling and face September, 10am to 4pm) painting, at no extra cost?

For more information, visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/look-out-discovery-centre

Autumn fun at Bocketts Farm Bocketts Farm in Leatherhead always has a fun-filled programme of events to entertain everyone and as we enter the long autumn term, a trip to the farm is a must! There’s so much to choose from and little ones will love meeting and feeding the friendly farm animals in the Small Animal Village and Big Animal Barn. In addition, daily events include pony rides, tractor rides, gold panning, animal handling, goat milking and the famous pig racing! This October half term (21 to 29 October) is Wizards and Witches Week and visitors can enjoy a packed programme of fun and freaky activities including a Quiz Trail, Creepy

Craft Corner and Reptile Roadshow, where you’ll get the chance to meet awesome creepy crawlies up close! Plus, they’ll be hundreds of pumpkins on sale and amazing magic shows from the Wizard magician! With a large heated indoor play barn, trampolines, pedal go karts, young driver’s area and a jumping pillow, there’s plenty to keep the whole family amused, whatever the weather!

For more information, visit vwww.bockettsfarm.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Families Upon Thames 27

HAH LLOOL W WO DE HOOR IW AE YN LKISD WO RK S AOO YPP RKS HH HO P

Let us occupy your ghouls and gremlins this October in a gruesome week filled with singing, dancing and drama! We will create a Halloween show for family and friends.

Booking essential. Spaces Limited!

LITTLE GOBLINS

Ages: 4-6 Time: 9.30-1.30pm 23-27th October £165 sibling £135 Venue: Stanley School, Strathmore Road, Teddington TW11 8UH

HALLOWEEN SPOOK-TAC-U-LAR Ages: 6-18 Time: 10-4.30pm 23-27th October £135 sibling £115 Venue: Stanley School, Strathmore Road, Teddington TW11 8UH

stagecoach.co.uk/twickenham stagecoach.co.uk/twickenham 07824 999414 07824 999414

Stagecoach Performing Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd. Stagecoach Performing Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd.

Book your space today on this SPOOKTACULAR week.