Families Upon Thames Issue 114 Jan/Feb 2017 by Families London-Kent Borders Magazine

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January/February 2017 Issue 114

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January-February 2017

contents 4 6

family health early years

8 family travel 9 parenting 10 wellbeing 11 education focus 22 clubs & classes 31 whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on

To advertise in this magazine contact: MIMA WALIA, Editor m: 07792 006546 e: editor@familiesuponthames.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk

January-February 2017

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Make sure you pick up our March/April issue for Everything Easter! Out early March!

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FAMILY HEALTH and WELLBEING

Early is always best by Dr Michael Nigro BDS (Rand)

When it comes to orthodontic treatment for children, starting early is always best. It is important that children have regular dental check-ups with a dental practice that has up-to-date knowledge of orthodontic treatments so any problems can be addressed as early as possible. Patients have historically undergone treatment far too late due to a lack of knowledge. Many adults may recall having teeth removed and then a brace fitted, but in the majority of these cases that was probably not the ideal treatment approach. Many of those who had that form of orthodontic treatment may find that they grind their teeth at night. That’s because the bite was never corrected to begin with. We recommend assessing children as young as six for orthodontics. Those diagnosed as not developing dentally correctly begin treatment as soon as the adult upper front teeth appear, usually around the age of seven. The reason for this is that at that point we can establish exactly

where the child is on the facial development scale. Jaws that are too narrow or bites that are incorrect at that point need to be corrected. The treatment we use is removable braces that gently enlarge the jaws and guide them into the correct bite position. Waiting until the child is older will be too late. Jaws that are the correct size can accommodate all the adult teeth – alleviating the need to extract healthy adult teeth. When the bite is correct the jaw joint is in its happy ‘neutral’

FREE CONSULTATION FOR ALL NEW DENTAL PATIENTS

CORNER OF MOUNT ARARAT & PARADISE ROAD RICHMOND - SURREY - TW10 6PA E: reception@roseneath.co.uk W: www.roseneath.co.uk T: 020 8940 9955 4

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position. Patients who bite correctly and whose joints are in the correct position do not grind or clench their teeth in their sleep. In their early teens a fixed brace may be needed to make minor corrections but this is generally a simple short treatment, lasting about six months.

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We recommend assessing children as young as six for orthodontics.

Dr Michael Nigro 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 a FREE consultation for all new patients. For more information, visit www.roseneath.co.uk

NEW EXTENDED OPENING HOURS INCLUDING SUNDAYS

CORNER OF MOUNT ARARAT & PARADISE ROAD RICHMOND - SURREY - TW10 6PA E: medicalreception@roseneath.co.uk W: www.roseneath.co.uk T: 020 8940 9955 January-February 2017

FAMILY HEALTH and WELLBEING

Common skin rashes in children

Rashes in children are very common but nonetheless can be frightening to parents. Although most rashes are harmless it is helpful to understand more about them. by Dr Sumi Soori Symptoms: Itchy spots which then turn into fluid-filled blisters which crust over and then drop off. Treatment: To alleviate symptoms use lotions such as calamine lotion and cooling gels and paracetamol for fever.

Measles

Scarlet fever

Infective/contagious: Highly contagious bacterial infection. Symptoms: Initially often a sore throat, fever and headache, followed by a distinctive rough, pink-red rash on the chest and stomach which may spread. Treatment: Antibiotics.

Ringworm

Infective/contagious: Highly infectious fungal skin infection. Symptoms: Characteristic red inflamed or silvery patch on the skin, can be itchy and scaly and can affect the skin all over the body, including the scalp. Treatment: Antifungal medication and antifungal shampoo if scalp affected.

Scabies

Infective/contagious: Caused by mites. This is a contagious condition, spread through prolonged periods of skin-to-skin contact with an infected child or adult. Symptoms: Small red blotches, usually on the palms of the hands or the soles of the feet. Treatment: Must be treated with specific medication for all members of the household.

Impetigo

Infective/contagious: Highly infectious bacterial skin infection. Symptoms: Sores and blisters – typically sores around the nose and mouth that burst to leave a yellow/ brown crust, or less commonly in the skin between the waist and neck. Treatment: Antibiotics, either cream or oral.

Molluscum contagiosum

Infective/contagious: Highly infectious viral skin infection, spread by close physical contact. Symptoms: Usually none, maybe an occasional itch. Treatment: Usually no need as this will resolve within 18 months without treatment, however some lesions may require freezing treatment.

Pityriasis rosacea

Infective/contagious: No evidence of being of infective origin or contagious. Symptoms: Raised itchy, scaly patches usually in older children. January-February 2017

Treatment: Emollients, steroid creams and antihistamines to alleviate symptoms but the condition usually clears spontaneously without treatment by three months.

Slapped cheek

(fifth disease/parvovirus B19) Infective/contagious: viral infection. Children can attend school unless feeling unwell. Once the rash appears, the infection is no longer contagious. Symptoms: Distinctive bright red rash on both cheeks. Treatment:: Usually no treatment is required as it clears spontaneously in one to three weeks.

Urticaria (hives/weals) Infective/contagious: No. Possible triggers include allergens (food or latex), irritants (medicines or nettles) and physical factors such as heat or exercise. Often a cause can’t be identified. Symptoms: Raised, itchy rash that can affect one part of the body or be spread across large areas of the body. Treatment: Antihistamines. Hand, foot and mouth disease

Infective/contagious: Contagious infection. Symptoms: Mouth ulcers and spots and blisters on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Treatment: No specific treatment other than soft foods and fluids. The condition will resolve spontaneously after approximately seven to ten days. During this time your child should be kept away from school or nursery.

Infective/contagious: A highly infectious illness but now rare in the UK due to the MMR vaccine. Symptoms: A rash of red/brown blotches, usually starts on the head or upper neck and then spreads, plus a fever with cold-like symptoms. Treatment: Paracetamol/ibuprofen to alleviate symptoms and fluids to keep hydrated. You must take your child to visit a doctor if you suspect measles to reduce the spread of infection to others.

Meningitis

Infective/contagious: A contagious infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord (meninges), but vaccinations are available for Meningitis B, C and ACWY strains. Symptoms: Small, red pinprick rash at first which then quickly spreads over the body and turns into red/purple blotches. Please seek immediate medical advice if, upon pressing the side of a clear glass firmly against the skin, the rash doesn’t fade.

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Dr Sumi Soori MBBS, MRCGP, DRCOG is a Private General Practitioner at Roseneath Medical Practice, who has a strong interest in Paediatrics and Women’s health. The Practice is open to new patients and offers FREE initial consultation. For more information go to www.roseneath.co.uk

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Cellulitis

Infective/contagious: An infection of the deeper layers of skin and underlying tissue. Symptoms: Affected skin will be red, painful, swollen and hot. Often affects legs, but can occur anywhere on the body. Often associated with a fever. Treatment: Antibiotics.

Chickenpox

Infective/contagious: Viral infection, contagious but can be prevented through vaccination.

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Small and caring pre-school in Hampton Ages 2 to 5 Teaches Early Years Foundation Stage. Curriculum and Montessori Method.

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For a prospectus or to visit, call Julia on 020 8335 0666 / 07939 838991 or email juliasmontessori@aol.com

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Milkshake Montessori Nursery School provides high quality care and education for children from 3 months to 5 years. The Montessori Method relies on children’s natural curiosity and love of learning. It instills motivation for continuous learning, which will stand them in good stead for the rest of their lives.

Next issue March/April, to advertise contact: MIMA WALIA, Editor m: 07792 006546 e: editor@familiesuponthames.co.uk

See our schools section starting on page 10

Windham Nursery School For 2-4yr olds Drop In Play Group Mon-Thurs AM (Term Time)

Ofsted Outstanding

To book a tour call 020 88316060 email info@windham.richmond.sch.uk www.windham.richmond.sch.uk

Windham Road, Richmond, TW9 2HP

Taking enrolments for term time and holiday club bookings. Contact us for more information. Milkshake Montessori Nursery School Ltd 131 Warren Road Whitton Middlesex TW2 7DJ T 020 8894 3113

E enquiries@milkshakemontessori.co.uk W milkshakemontessori.co.uk

Ofsted Reg. No: EY274560 Company Reg. No: 7059801

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January-February 2017

EARLY YEARS CARE

The guide to little bilingual brains By Dr Evelyne Mercure

must inhibit the impulse to use words in their other language. To achieve this task, they activate parts of their brain involved in cognitive control. This extra practice at controlling their own thoughts may lead to a ‘bilingual advantage’ in certain cognitive tasks.

Mastering two languages will give children a better understanding of their family’s cultural background. The most unique aspects of a culture always risk getting lost in translation. For this reason, being bilingual helps children become ‘bicultural’, making them more aware of cultural differences and more likely to take part in two cultures. Every family and every child is different. There are a million different ways of raising bilingual children and the most important is to find a way that feels right for your family. Here are a few tips that can help making these decisions for your family. Maximise face-to-face communication. From the first days of life, babies love making eye contact and hearing their loved ones speak, vocalise and sing. Face-to-face communication is the motor of language learning and early experience is key. Making sure you talk to your baby as much as possible and involve your child in as much conversation as possible will lead to better abilities in one, two or more languages.

1 Infants and young children have an impressive capacity for learning languages. They are curious, very eager to communicate and their brains are designed for fast learning. Bilingual families have an interesting opportunity of making the most of these early learning capacities in teaching their children two languages from birth. There are several interesting advantages to raising bilingual children. Bilingualism does not cause language delays. Bilingual children usually learn two languages at the same pace as monolingual children are learning one. For example, bilinguals say their first words and start combining words into sentences at the same age as monolinguals. Bilinguals may sometimes appear to know less words than monolinguals, but this is usually because their vocabulary is divided between two languages.

January-February 2017

Learning two languages encourages children to think about languages. Young monolinguals might struggle to recognise that ‘caterpillar’ is a bigger word than ‘whale’ because they find it difficult to dissociate a word from its meaning. Bilingualism attracts children’s attention to language itself, making children more aware of the sounds, words and regularities in languages. This gives them a head start in school when learning phonics or grammar rules.

Bilingualism might make your child better at multi-tasking or listening to someone speaking in a noisy environment. When speaking one of their languages, bilinguals

Have a plan. It is important to think about what ‘bilingualism’ means for your family. Would you like your child to have a basic understanding of another language? Are you hoping for your child to be fluent in two languages? Or do you want them to read and write in two different languages?

Make sure you provide plenty of experience for your child to achieve each of these goals. It might be a good idea to decide on a language to be used at home. One parent may decide to use one language when addressing their child, while the other parent will use a different language. Think of the language(s) you want to use when reading to your child or singing to them. The more exposure your child will get in one language, the more fluent they are likely to become in that language.

Keep it fun. Your child’s motivation to learn each of their languages will make a huge difference to their achievement. A child may find it unpleasant if they feel constantly tested and criticised when speaking. The main focus should be on what is being said and not how it is being said.

Find role models. One way of keeping their motivation up may be to involve people who are not fluent in your child’s dominant language. This may encourage them to use a language they are less comfortable in. It will also show them that this language is spoken by people other than mum and/or dad. Children will also learn a lot from other children, especially older ones. They will want to speak like them and adopt their accent and expressions. Cousins who are not fluent in your child’s dominant language, for instance, may become excellent role models and a very good source of motivation. Offering a bilingual environment to your child is a richness they will benefit from all their life. They may not only learn two languages, but also a new way of thinking about cultural diversity. Do not be afraid of making the most of their incredible language learning abilities!

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Evelyne Mercure studied Speech and Language Pathologies, Neuroscience and Psychology. She is currently an ESRC fellow at UCL Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, investigating the impact of language experience on infants’ brain and cognitive development. She is also the proud mum of three bilingual children.

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FAMILY TRAVEL

Resort & SPA LE DUNE in Sardinia is everyone’s favourite Just a 40-minute drive from Santa Teresa Gallura and Porto Torres in northern Sardinia, lies the 4 Star Resort & SPA Le Dune.

Sprawling across 280,000sqm of private grounds, this mini-village is surrounded by sand dunes, scented junipers and overlooks an 8km stretch of ‘Blue Flag’ beach. With award-winning family facilities and tranquil pockets of secluded landscape, Le Dune appeals to couples looking for relaxation and fun-seeking families alike. The 496-bedroomed Le Dune is one of the most well-equipped resorts in Sardinia. Divided into five distinct hotels with ten restaurants, a choice of six freshwater swimming pools, six bars, Wellness Centre, children’s village, 450-capacity conference centre, outdoor amphitheatre, eight multi-sports courts and beach-front watersports facilities, Le Dune caters for every conceivable leisure activity. At Le Dune happy, entertained children make for a happy, entertaining family holiday. All ages are considered with Baby, Mini, Junior and Teen Clubs providing activities from acting, sports and sailing courses, to Baby Dance and Cocktail Mixology. Facilities include; Puddaggjiu a vast aviary with peacocks, ducks and hens; Peperone Organic Vegetable Garden where children can pick and eat their own vegetables; Castello Duneland with children’s cinema and creative workshops; Villaggio Fantasia a 10,000m² ‘wild’ playground

with swimming pool, Red Indian camp, ‘Fort Krock’, inflatable pirate ship with slide, climbing games and Fantacastello with helter-skelter and climbing wall. Away from the excitement, nestled amidst the sand dunes, Le Sabine SPA and Wellness Centre offers a wealth of ways to relax and rejuvenate including three heated outdoor freshwater pools with a choice of Jacuzzi,

whirlpools and Hydromassage beds. Indulge in a range of beauty treatments, Turkish bath or utilise the state-of-the-art cardio-fitness equipment. The five Le Dune accommodation districts include:

Hotel La Duna Bianca

– 4 Star Superior A few metres from the beach, La Duna Bianca is a beachfront oasis.

Elegantly furnished with private terraces enjoying spectacular sunsets over the sea, guests also enjoy complimentary access to the Le Sabine SPA & Wellness Centre. Request the President Sea View Suite for a 180° panorama. Hotel Le Sabine – 4 Star Superior Exclusively located within the grounds of Le Sabine SPA & Wellness Centre and with a large private pool, Le Sabine perfectly combines comfort, relaxation and privacy with the services and the energy of the resort. Hotel Le Rocce – 4 Star In a secluded corner of Le Dune, Le Rocce is the ideal accommodation choice for those looking for peace. The Superior rooms are surrounded by verdant greenery around the Le Rocce pool. Breakfast by the pool at Il Romantico restaurant terrace, or on your own veranda, provides the perfect way to start your day. Hotel I Ginepri – 4 Star Designed for families of all sizes and with young children, I Ginepri offers a convenient choice of spacious and functional rooms, close to the resort’s main facilities and large swimming pool. Hotel Le Palme – 4 Star For young couples, groups of friends or families with one child, Le Palme rooms are located at the heart of the Resort & SPA Le Dune with direct access to two swimming pools, one of which is dedicated to children.

Rates start at £81 per person per night in a double room on a half-board basis. For more information or to book, visit: www.delphinahotels.co.uk 8

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January-February 2017

PARENTING

Take the pain out of planning after-school activities with TheKidsDo.com by Juliette Barber

Being a parent can sometimes feel overwhelming as we constantly strive to create the ‘perfect’ environment for our children. After-school activities are a great way to develop your child and spark their interest in something new, but finding the right fit can be difficult. Busy parents don’t have the time to spend hours trawling through the internet in the hopes of finding the right after-school activity for their child, but help is at hand with TheKidsDo.com ‘At the heart of our platform is the drive to discreetly support parents and after-school activity providers as they nurture the whole child,’ says founding CEO Aurelie Lepercq. ‘This is why our platform gives all forms of arts, sports and less mainstream activities the exposure and access they too deserve.’

How it works in 3 easy steps:

1. Parents sign up to the service.

2. They submit their requirements

for after-school activities. 3. TheKidsDo then uses technology to search and curate the information available to match parents’ requirements. The end result is a weekly bespoke calendar of recurring activities for the term which parents can access digitally.

5 reasons to request your bespoke planner with TheKidsDo:

3 Curated – TheKidsDo will search vast amounts of information on after-school activities and curate a selection that matches your unique needs. 3 Familiar – The end schedule is presented in a familiar weekly

calendar format, easy to use and valid for a full term. 3 Comprehensive – Each schedule includes up to 40 essential elements of information, which are clearly laid out to help you decide. 3 Co-ordinated – Multiple activities, timing and locations are harmonised for each day that you request. 3 Private – Access is restricted to each parent and the child/ children’s name is never asked for. TheKidsDo is rapidly becoming the go-to website for busy parents, as Surbiton mum Cecile

testifies. ‘I had been trying to set up sport clubs for my six-year-old son and gave up very quickly as it was far too time consuming,’ she says. ‘I heard about TheKidsDo. com from a friend and decided to give it a try. It saved me four hours of my time (and many frustrations) and my son now has his sport clubs scheduled!’ TheKidsDo saves parents from having to spend days sifting through hundreds of online pages and from having to make numerous phone calls and send multiple emails to activity providers. A comprehensive schedule costs just £15.

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TheKidsDo.com was set up by Aurelie Lepercq in early 2016 and currently operates in Kingston-upon-Thames, New Malden, Surbiton, Worcester Park, Richmond and Twickenham. For further information, visit www.thekidsdo.com

January-February 2017

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EARLY YEARS WELLBEING

The benefits of mindfulness in children The past two decades have seen an abundance of research, and hundreds of studies conducted, about the increasingly popular practice of mindfulness.

Countless results of studies about mindfulness have shown a great increase in stress, so much so that some Fortune 500 companies in the US, for instance, have even employed mindfulness coaches to benefit their employees. Specific programmes for businesses around the globe have been created for their employees to help reduce stress, keep employees’ minds fresh and focused and in turn able to perform better at work and of course be happier and healthier from the inside out. But, just what is mindfulness? And does it have the same positive effect on younger children, specifically those between the ages of three and eleven?

What is mindfulness?

In short, mindfulness is a simplistic program of meditative activities. It is a simple, yet powerful observation free from criticism and is a new and improved way of seeing what is happening to us in our lives. Although very effective once learnt, mindfulness does of course not rid you of everyday problems and pressures, yet it does, however, provide you with the tools and mindset needed to handle them in a calmer way. This calmer way has been said to benefit not only your mind but also your heart and body, thus providing an improved way of life and a greater sense of clarity and focus.

How can mindfulness help young children?

Extensive research has shown that mindfulness can help children between the ages of three and eleven. Many developmental changes occur at this time including the physical changes and events such as starting school, socialising and simply learning about life. As such, it makes perfect sense to equip youngsters with tools on how to deal with their emotions and how to develop a positive outlook on life with mindfulness skills. Children can learn vital stress-relieving skills such as breathing techniques, mindful hearing and listening. If children struggle with an emotion or getting angry

they can revert to mindfulness techniques to learn how to deal with, and control, those emotions.

Mindfulness and autism, ADHD and ADD

The Autism Research and Treatment study undertaken by Sequeira is a piece of research that supports the notion that mindful meditation has a great positive effect on children with autism. To be mindful helps one keep focused in a precise moment. Taking medication for autism, ADHD or ADD does not have long-term benefits, however, mindfulness can help long term if it is practised daily and part of one’s lifestyle, not only for children but also for adults. Parents and/or carers who look after children with such disorders can often find themselves dealing with stress, so things such as meditation and mindful thinking can help reduce the effects of stress, thus enabling them to deal with situations in a calmer, more helpful way for themselves and their children. Some of those with autism suffer from psychological

imbalances, such as lack of rhythm. Children who struggle with this can have difficulty when trying to balance the inner and outer world, which can result in issues with interaction or distorted relationships. One area of mindfulness that may benefit these children is Mantra Meditation. This type of meditation is all about repetition, such as repeating a sound or repeating a movement or word. It’s this calm and harmonising meditation that can help to restore the child’s sense of rhythm.

Can mindfulness help your child thrive at school?

It is a sad and somewhat worrying fact that more and more children are feeling the stress and pressure of school life. With a push to succeed academically, to make friends or even anxieties related to changing or starting new schools, these pressures are simply no good for our children. With this in mind it is no surprise that teachers, carers and parents are looking towards proven methods of mindfulness

to protect and nurture their youngsters’ mental and general wellbeing. Some children find short yoga routines at the start or end of their day a great way to clear their mind and relax, as well as stay in tune with their mind and bodies. These sorts of activities are perfect for all ages, from very young children to the elderly. Children who are undertaking exams may find yoga a much-needed break from studying, as even 10 minutes’ practise can provide great clarity and help to re-focus the mind. Many practitioners are encouraging schools and parents to practise mindfulness with their children due to the plethora of proven benefits to all. For instance, Susan Kaiser Greenland has published a study named Mindful Revolution in Education. This informative piece goes into more detail on the ways in which mindfulness programmes for children can help create a more compassionate, calmer youngster with good practices.

For more information, visit: www.familiesonline.co.uk/wellbeing 10

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January-February 2017

EDUCATION FOCUS SPRING 2017 Educating the Whole Child

SCHOOL NEWS

EDUCATION FOCUS SPRING 2017 Educating the Whole Child

HOLIDAY CLUB FUN FOR ALL AT ATHELSTAN HOUSE SCHOOL

Athelstan House School’s new programme of purposeful care in the holidays offers an exciting range of fun activities for children aged three to eight years old. With flexible booking options and a wide variety of sporting, creative and teamwork activities (such as the popular den building shown in the photograph), the Hampton-based Holiday Club

will meet the needs of busy parents who want their children to be purposefully engaged whilst having a great deal of fun. The focus is on providing high-quality care with themed activities delivered by well-qualified and experienced teachers. All children in the local area are welcome to come along, whether or not they attend Athelstan House School.

It was a crisp and sunny morning when all the Pre-Prep and Nursery children at Claremont Fan Court School in Esher wrapped up warmly, ready to embark on a sponsored Walkathon Challenge around the beautiful Claremont Estate. Armed with spotter sheets containing pictures of things

to find, they set forth on a trail through wood and parkland around the estate. A family of owls, a triceratops and Sammy squirrel were a few of the creatures hidden amongst the trees. Whilst enjoying the fresh air, exercising and utilising their senses the children raised over £2,000 which will fund the next stage of their outside play area.

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

For further information, visit www.claremont-school.co.uk

NEW BUILDINGS DEVELOP SIR WILLIAM PERKINS’S SCHOOL EVEN FURTHER

TRIUMPH FOR THAMES CHRISTIAN COLLEGE’S CROSS COUNTRY TEAM

Sir William Perkins’s School (SWPS) in Chertsey continues into 2017 with the full use of its fantastic new facilities. The School aims to build confidence, integrity and excellence in a caring, innovative and happy community. This means that each student leaves with the best possible chance of achieving their full potential and ready to take on the world.

Over the last year, SWPS has opened several brand-new building developments to add to its already excellent facilities. These include a state-of-the-art glass atrium café, a new Drama Studio fully equipped with high-spec audio-visual technology, a Careers Centre and seminar suites, a Sixth Form Centre complete with roof-top terrace and a riverside boathouse!

For further information, visit www.swps.org.uk 12

CHILDREN AT CLAREMONT FAN COURT RAISE MONEY THROUGH WALKING

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Batterseabased school, Thames Christian College, is doing exceptionally well this season in Cross Country. Jemima, Year 10, came 26th out of 111 runners at London Youth Games contributing to Gold for the Wandsworth Girls Under 17s team. The school’s Junior team beat six other schools in the independent schools Cross Country competition held in Richmond Park, with individual boys and girls finishing in first, second, third, fifth and sixth place. In the Senior competition, Jemima won the girls’ race and broke the girls’ record in the process, contributing to Thames

Christian’s team coming second overall. At its annual, sponsored Cross Country, the boys and girls completed an amazing total of 704km, with sponsorship so far raising over £3,000 in aid of the charity Go MAD in Tanzania. This will help village girls get back into education and provide a science lab for Bunda Girls’ School, so that they are not forced into an early marriage and the consequences that go with this.

For further information, visit www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk January-February 2017

“Excellent results achieved with a big dollop of humour, humanity and freedom of thought” Good Schools Guide 2016

PARENTS’ INFORMATION MORNINGS Tuesday 7 March 2017 Wednesday 26 April 2017

PUPILS’ INFORMATION MORNINGS Friday 24 February 2017 Wednesday 15 March 2017 Friday 5 May 2017

☛ Claremont Fan Court School An independent co-educational school for pupils aged 2½ to 18 years

Open Mornings A highly successful independent day school for girls aged 11-18 years, situated in Surrey greenbelt, with easy road/rail access and school coach services.

For further information, tel 01372 473624 or email info@claremont.surrey.sch.uk

Please contact the Admissions Department to reserve a place at our information events, for further details or a prospectus.

t 01932 574900 | e reg@swps.org.uk Guildford Road | Chertsey Surrey KT16 9BN

s.o

Nursery Pre-Prep Prep Senior Sixth Form

.uk

Whole School - 10.00am-12.30pm Introductory talk at 10.00am Saturday 4 February Saturday 11 March

• Outstanding academic results with excellent co-curricular opportunities • State of the art facilities • Scholarships – Academic, Music and Art (Year 7 and 6th Form), Sports (6th Form) and means-tested bursaries (up to100%) available • 54% A* grades at GCSE

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www.claremont-school.co.uk

January-February 2017

B4485 SWPS 260x87P.indd 1 A67980 Claremont Fan Whole School Advert Sheengate Publishing_February 88x132.indd 1 30/06/2016 10:02

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SCHOOL NEWS

EDUCATION FOCUS SPRING 2017 Educating the Whole Child

FOUR-STEP APPROACH TO STUDYING AT HALLIFORD SCHOOL

At Halliford School in Shepperton parents, along with most families with children facing public exams this summer, will be turning to revision and exam preparation at this time of year. Nagging and extoling the virtues of working hard are likely to fall on deaf ears, but providing support and just being there will pay dividends. The pupils at Halliford are encouraged to adopt a

four-step approach to studying: Understand, Condense, Memorise and Review. This is not ground breaking or new, but sound advice nevertheless. Halliford prides itself on providing a nurturing environment with an ethos to encourage, where the 400 pupils are helped to maximise their academic potential whilst experiencing opportunities to develop skills beyond the classroom.

Hampton School’s Pre-Prep children demonstrated their culinary skills on a recent visit to Pizza Express. The Reception class had been learning about dough making in lessons and were very keen to put their newfound knowledge to the test. Fully kitted-out with chef’s hats and aprons, the children rolled out the pizza dough and chose from a selection of toppings, with salami being a firm favourite. ‘I loved making my pizza,’ says five-year-old fledgling chef, Harry Morris. ‘I made a smiley face with the cheese!’ At the end of their

visit, the children took their pizzas home to share with their families.

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

For further information, visit www.hamptonprep.org.uk

OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND FOR MUSICIANS AT NEWLAND HOUSE SCHOOL

ACTIVITIES DAY PROVIDES LOTS OF FUN AT THE MALL SCHOOL

Music plays a fundamental, vibrant and far-reaching part in school life at Newland House School in Twickenham. Last year the Choir was extremely busy. It toured Lake Garda and Verona in Italy, performing a stunning repertoire in beautiful churches and venues, and sung at the opening event of the new Pre-Prep, which has superb resources, including bespoke and

inspiring music tuition rooms. The recital programme provided the instrumentalists with an ideal opportunity to perform in the new hall where the acoustics have enhanced the music and sound. Further musical events included the recent Winter Concert which provided the ensembles with ideal preparation for their forthcoming Spring Concert at the Hammond Theatre.

For further information, visit www.newlandhouse.net 14

HAMPTON PRE-PREP HAVE FUN AT PIZZA EXPRESS

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Years 4 to 8 at The Mall School in Twickenham had a busy and fun Activities Day recently. Year 4 took part in a series of puzzle workshops, focussing on a range of key skills including team work, problem solving and communication. The Smallpeice Trust came in to deliver Primary Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) days. Year 5 worked on four challenges, taking in a range of subjects including design technology, maths and science, while Year 8 worked together in small groups on a ‘Sustainable Island’ project. This challenged them to work together to think like

engineers in order to construct a reservoir and wind turbine to service a previously uninhabitable island. Year 6 took part in a series of African drumming and dance workshops, learning simple rhythms and basic dance steps and Year 7 enjoyed a one-day leadership course facing physical and skill-based challenges as part of an entrepreneurial group-based project, including building a water-powered vehicle.

For further information, visit www.themallschool.org.uk January-February 2017

www.hallifordschool.co.uk Independent senior day school Boys 11–18 years Girls 16 –18 years

Open Days Thursday 2nd March Tuesday 7th March Thursday 4th May Tours of the School start at 9.30am and 11.30am (by appointment) athelstan

Please contact Fran Clatworthy at registrar@halliford.net or telephone 01932 223593

OPEN MORNINGS Nursery & Junior School

College & Sixth Form

3 & 4 March 2017

4 March 2017

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An exceptionally friendly school, offering a stimulating and positive environment, where pupils are encouraged to fulfil their potential. We offer an extensive coach service covering the surrounding area and the School is a short walk from Shepperton Mainline station.

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SPRING OPEN MORNINGS Let our boys welcome you and show you the school through their eyes WEDNESDAY 18 JANUARY TUESDAY 21 FEBRUARY THURSDAY 23 MARCH FRIDAY 28 APRIL Tours start at 9.00am Headmaster’s Talk & Coffee at 10.15am Individual tours of the Pre-Prep building are also available every Thursday morning To book a place on an Open Morning or arrange an individual tour, please email: admissions@themallschool.org.uk or call: 020 8614 1082 www.themallschool.org.uk

New Pre-Prep Now Open • Year 3 entry via 7+ Assessment 185 Hampton Road, Twickenham TW2 5NQ

Bringing out the best in every boy January-February 2017

Welcome Mornings • 27 January • 24 February

Call to book your place or to make an individual appointment ewlandhouse.net www.newlandhouse.net

Ne Waldegrave Park, Twickenham TW1 4TQ t: 020 8865 1305 e: admissions@newlandhouse.net www.newlandhouse.net 28 - 36 WALDEGRAVE PARK TWICKENHAM TW1 4TQ

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15 15

SCHOOL NEWS

EDUCATION FOCUS SPRING 2017 Educating the Whole Child

TWICKENHAM PREP CELEBRATES SUCCESS IN AND OUT OF THE CLASSROOM

It has been an exciting and successful term at Twickenham Prep School in Hampton where academic and extra-curricular success go hand-in-hand. There have been many highlights both in and out of the classroom and many pupil successes to enjoy and celebrate. The school is proud of its boys and girls who have competed so enthusiastically and successfully in football and netball this term. The boys have won three

prestigious football tournaments at U13, U11 and U9 level. Pupils have competed successfully at the Borough Swimming Gala and earned plaudits at the Borough Cross Country event. In addition the school has enjoyed continued success in Chess tournaments as current IAPS U11 and U13 National Champions. One interesting venture was the visit of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association team, along with local MP Tania Mathias, who shared information about the work of the Commonwealth. They all left suitably impressed by the interest, knowledge and depth of pupils’ questions at a mini Prime Minister’s Questions!

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

ST GEORGE’S JUNIOR SCHOOL WELCOMES JAPANESE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

St George’s Junior School in Weybridge welcomed some very special guests as 18 delegates from the Japanese Department of Education visited the school. With St George’s Junior School recently receiving the Quality Mark with Distinction from the Association of Physical Education (AfPE), becoming the first and only independent school to receive this highly prestigious award, the AfPE recommended the School to the Japanese

delegates so that they could find out how it teaches Physical Education. The delegates toured the netball courts and attended, among other things, a presentation which discussed a number of topics including the current situation of physical ability, fitness and exercise capacity of children at school, the reasons for promoting physical education and the impact physical education can have on a child’s health.

For further information, visit www.stgeorgesweybridge.com 16

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TEAM GB WHEELCHAIR ATHLETE FI TILLMAN VISITS NOTRE DAME SCHOOL

The girls at Notre Dame School in Cobham were delighted to welcome World Championship Team GB wheelchair basketball athlete and former Notre Dame girl Fi Tillman to their school last term. She came along to talk to both the Prep and Senior girls about her experience representing Team GB, the accident that changed

her life and achieving her goals. Fi spoke to the girls about how her love of sport and competition, gained throughout her time at Notre Dame, have helped restore her purpose in life. The day provided the girls with a wonderful example of how resilience, determination and self-belief can change your life and help you achieve your goals.

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

STAINES PREPARATORY SCHOOL TRAVEL THE WORLD IN ONE MORNING

Sometimes it can be difficult to bring certain subjects to life in the classroom. However Staines Preparatory School was selected to take part in the new Google Expedition Pioneer Program which allows teachers to take their classes on virtual field trips. By immersing them in experiences that bring abstract concepts to life, pupils gain a deeper understanding of the world beyond the classroom.

‘This is a fantastic opportunity for us as a School to explore a new technology that can be applied in the classroom.’ Says Deputy Head Mr Donaldson. ‘It has been a very exciting morning watching the pupils engage with each activity as they travel from the Pyramids to the Great Barrier Reef, and beyond. This experience is wonderful for inspiring pupils and providing a stimulating curriculum for all.’ Next stop Mars…

For further information, visit www.stainesprep.co.uk January-February 2017

Pre-Prep Open Morning Thursday 9th February 9.30am, please call to reserve a place or visit www.twickenhamprep.co.uk

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Watch your child thrive in our happy, caring school 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

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www.notredame.co.uk #Hattastic January-February 2017

Notre Dame School, Cobham 01932 869990 A Foundation of the Company of Mary Our Lady

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17 17

COBHAM FREE SCHOOL SECURES A NEW PERMANENT SITE Michaela Khatib, founder and Executive Head, gives an update on the school’s journey so far

EDUCATION FOCUS SPRING 2017 Educating the Whole Child

Cobham Free School (CFS) has come a long way since opening its doors to three infant classes in a small Gospel Hall in September 2012. Having gained approval from the Department for Education to expand into an all-through school in 2014, it is now well on its way to offering an exceptional education to pupils from the age of four to eighteen. Its vision to develop an independent, publicly-funded school (no fees) has become a reality and is proving to be successful. With small class sizes, a traditional, knowledge-based curriculum, (which includes Latin), rich opportunities in music and sport and a wealth of exciting extra-curricular clubs, it has achieved its aim of bringing best practice from both the private and state sectors. Currently CFS operates

over two sites, with the senior department based temporarily in West Molesey and the junior children being educated in the refurbished Old Police Station in Cobham. Once the new permanent site at Munro House has been converted from an office building into a smart new school, all pupils from the age of seven to eighteen will be based at the same premises, with infants (Lower School) remaining at The Old Police Station. The whole school is due to expand again once Munro House is ready for occupation and CFS plans to increase in size from three to four forms of entry in the senior department and to increase to two forms of entry in the junior department. At capacity it will be able to educate over a thousand pupils – a significant expansion from the less than 50 children it started with. The CFS motto is ‘Optimum Omnibus’ (the best for all) and

its dedicated and inspirational staff work hard to ensure each pupil receives the learning opportunities they require to reach their full potential. One of its key strategies for success is having high expectations for all pupils; this includes a focus on exemplary levels of behaviour, the requirement for smart appearance (strict uniform regulations) and the prioritising of academic standards. This approach is already producing excellent outcomes. For the past two years the Year 1 class has had a 100% pass rate in the government phonics screening test and the Key Stage 2 pupils produced results well above

the national average in their first-ever set of SATS. After all the hard work to establish a new school from scratch, CFS is particularly satisfed that its model is proving extremely popular with parents. In the most recent admissions round for the senior department, CFS was the most oversubscribed school in Surrey for first choice preference places. Increasing options for choice in the education system has always been one of its aims and it is thrilled to be delivering a model that parents really seem to value.

For more information, visit www.cobhamfreeschool.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 24th February 2017 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 Formerly Denmead Pre-Prep School & Prep School, Gloucester Road, Hampton, TW12 2UQ 18

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January-February 2017

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Come and visit us at our Spring Open Morning Saturday 4th February: 10am - 12pm

EDUCATION FOCUS SPRING 2017 Educating the Whole Child

WHY IS IT ESSENTIAL TO ALLOW MY CHILD TO EXPERIENCE FAILURE? By Merinda D’Aprano

There are many things we do in life that make us feel rather overawed or even afraid. Not because they are life changing or will make a real difference in the sum of human endeavour, but simply because we are afraid we might not do as well as we hoped, or as well as someone else. This often means that we cannot really do our best, that we are made jittery with nerves or that we simply choose to opt out. Given that most of the world’s most important inventions are by-products of failure, it is time to revisit how we allow this to work in the successful education of our children. Courage in what we do sounds perfectly reasonable. It is easy to think of being brave, taking

a leap or running risk, but the truth is we are often held back by the simple notion that we might fail. Children are no different. If they are under pressure always to succeed, and encouraged or helped to do so by someone else taking control, then they learn that failure is a bad, sad or dangerous thing. In turn, this makes each task laden with fear that things might not go according to plan. Too much pressure ironically causes this fear of failure to be reflected in underachieving. Most of the underachieving children I discuss with anxious parents are under pressure, a pressure that creates failure through fear rather than driving achievement. Parental anxiety is the child’s best indicator

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that they are not succeeding sufficiently, so beware of the signals you display. Many parents who tell me that they don’t pressure their children are simply unaware of the signs they give out. An anxious tone of voice, asking too quickly about how something went or letting your child know you are talking to the teacher are all things that your child will pick up and use to create their own pressure. Sometimes, ‘let’s not worry, is there something I can help you with for next time?’ will help to break the panic and pressure cycle. Ridicule, which is something I have also seen used to make children resist failure, is unkind and counterproductive. If you tease a child about failure they will believe that you have no respect for their efforts and will either become deeply anxious, or fear that your faith in them is related only to what they can simply and unimaginatively achieve.

I was reminded of this when I was discussing an examination result with the parents of a bright and lively eight year old. This child works hard, achieves very good class results but recently had not done so well in an assessment test. Her mother was terribly anxious about this and so was the child. I asked the mother what she thought would happen if the child really failed (as I did not see this as a failure). The child said she was worried about failing because it mean she was letting her family down, and she would fail her exams in the senior school and not get into university or get a good job. This child is well-above average, usually happy and usually shows both initiative and perseverance. However, based on one slipped grade, here they were crying in my office and wondering where the dream had gone awry. I believe very firmly that this lovely girl is not really underachieving, nor failing, nor destined for disaster – unless her fear of failure is allowed to develop further. I tried hard to counsel on the minimal impact of one grade and the need to persevere, to identify what specifically needed more work (or even dismissing this result as unlucky). Picking up, dusting down and carrying on is the best way to deal with setbacks, errors, mishaps and other forms of perceived failure. Without the ability to learn from failure, and to embrace what it teaches us, learning will have a very definite low ceiling, and attainment will be greatly reduced. Wanting to do our best need not equate to being anxious about the opposite, especially if it is actually going to make things worse. Our best should always be good enough.

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Merinda D’Aprano is Head Teacher of Notre Dame Prep School in Cobham. This article is an extract from her new book Head Teacher in Your Pocket – The Essential Guide to Your Prep School Journey, available from Amazon bookstore (£10).

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January-February 2017

KUMON ENCOURAGES LEARNING FOR LIFE

The tutoring market in the UK is burgeoning. Figures published at the end of last year suggest that one in four children have sought private tuition and supplementary education to support them at school. The benefit of reinforcing lessons at school with an outside provider is that it allows parents to ensure their child is keeping up with their peers, and/or is being stretched to surpass levels in the classroom. For the first time this year, Year 11 pupils are required to

re-sit English and maths GCSEs if they did not score a C grade, and with just 35.9% of school leavers achieving a C or above, the overall pass rate has dropped. Kumon Educational offers maths and English programmes for children of all ages and abilities. The ultimate aim is to encourage students to take learning into their own hands and develop a firm foundation in these key subjects to ensure success at school and beyond.

To find out more, visit www.kumon.co.uk

PROFESSIONAL ONE TO ONE TUTORING FROM FLEET TUTORS Fleet Tutors has been matching the right tutor to the educational needs of students across the UK since 1977. Its network of tutors are subject specialists who tailor the teaching and learning experience to relieve any subject-specific anxieties and help build your child’s confidence so they achieve a successful outcome.

For a helpful discussion about your requirements, speak to Fleet Tutors’ knowledgeable tuition consultants today on 0333 920 2545, or visit www.fleet-tutors.co.uk January-February 2017

OPEN DAY LISTINGS SPRING TERM 2017 ATHELSTAN HOUSE SCHOOL, HAMPTON Friday, 24 March 9.30am to 11.30am For further information, call 020 8979 1045 or email admin@athelstanhouseschool.co.uk CLAREMONT FAN COURT SCHOOL, ESHER Saturday, 4 February 10.00am to 12.30pm Saturday, 11 March 10.00am to 12.30pm Please call 01372 473624 or email info@claremont.surrey.sch.uk to book your place. HALLIFORD SCHOOL, SHEPPERTON Thursday 2 March 9.30am to 11.30am Tuesday 7 March 9.30am to 11.30am Please call 01932 223593 or email registrar@halliford.net to make an appointment. HAMPTON PRE-PREP & PREP SCHOOL Friday, 24 February 9.30am to 11.00am For further information, call 020 8979 1844. NEWLAND HOUSE SCHOOL, TWICKENHAM Welcome Events Friday, 27 January 9.30am to 11.00am Friday, 24 February 9.30am to 11.00am Friday, 24 March 9.30am to 11.00am Please call 020 8865 1305 to confirm your place or to arrange an individual tour of the Pre-Prep or Prep School. NOTRE DAME SCHOOL Wednesday, 1 February 9.00am to 11.00am Tuesday, 7 March 9.00am to 11.00am For further information, call 01932 869993. SIR WILLIAM PERKINS’S SCHOOL, CHERTSEY Parents‘ Information Morning Tuesday, 7 March 9.15am to 11.15am Pupils’ Information Morning Friday, 24 February 9.15am to 11.15am Wednesday, 15 March 9.15am to 11.15am Please call 01932 574900 or email reg@swps.org.uk to reserve a place. STAINES PREPARATORY SCHOOL Saturday, 4 February 10.00am to 12.00pm For further information, call 01784 450909 or email info@stainesprep.co.uk ST GEORGE’S WEYBRIDGE Open Mornings Nursery and Junior School Friday, 3 March 9.00am to 12.30pm Saturday, 4 March 9.00am to 12.30pm College and Sixth Form Saturday, 4 March 9.00am to 12.30pm For further information, call 01932 839437. THAMES CHRISTIAN COLLEGE Tuesday, 7 March 11.00am to 1.00pm For further information, call 020 7228 3933. THE MALL SCHOOL, TWICKENHAM Wednesday, 18 January 9.00am to 11.30am Tuesday, 21 February 9.00am to 11.30am Thursday, 23 March 9.00am to 11.30am To book your place, please call 020 8614 1082. TWICKENHAM PREPARATORY SCHOOL Pre-Prep Thursday, 9 February 9.30am to 10.45am Please call 020 8979 6216 to reserve a place.

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CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

Learn rugby the fun way with Rugbytots Rugbytots started in 2006 with the motto ‘make it more fun’, which it does by delivering a specifically designed programme for each age group with energy, enthusiasm and excitement. This creates an atmosphere in the class that is totally unique and engaging for parents and children alike.

Two to three-and-a-half year olds

This class gives parents the opportunity to spend quality time with their child whilst they learn new skills, meet new friends and have an Classes are split into three age exciting introduction to rugby. groups, making sure that children get Your child will learn about shapes, colours, to play alongside other children of their numbers and counting, and they will be own age in an encouraging, friendly encouraged to work independently as well as environment. enjoying team games. Rugby-specific skills are gently introduced and all the equipment used in these classes has MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN! been specifically designed and selected for toddlers, including the use of Our dynamic weekly play sessions sponge foam enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to balls. This class is develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment. colourful, lively and guaranteed to For more details, just call or email: brighten up your little one’s day! AS SEEN ON

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Three-and-ahalf to five year olds Cheering and encouragement

are essential in these classes, as children will be part of a dynamic session that will develop their social and physical skills in a positive environment. With slightly more focus on rugby-specific skills, the children discover a new world of sporting imagination. Finding space, looking after the ball, scoring tries, running with the ball in two hands and general agility and balance are just some of the skills that are developed at this age.

Five to seven year olds

The older age group’s classes really start to prepare children for life after Rugbytots, with sessions including advanced team games, whilst ensuring that the basic skills of rugby are coached in the right way by maintaining smaller class numbers. The focus here is on fun and encouragement whilst enhancing self-esteem and confidence, and preparing the children for their next rugby adventure. Rugbytots has new classes coming to Sunbury this January. To find out more, visit www.rugbytots.co.uk

The world’s favourite rugby play programme

FOOTIE TOTS Would you like to try something different? Why not paint your own ceramics? At Ceramica, we guarantee great fun for all! Our services include: Children’s birthday parties Baby foot and hand print sessions Evening sessions for adults Annual membership scheme Take home packs & gift vouchers 7 The Parade, Claygate, Esher, KT10 0PD Phone: 01372 462447 Making ceramic painting easy and fun in a creative, enjoyable environment!

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CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

Why running may be the best sport for your child By Sally J Hall

Pupils at a school in Stirling run a mile every day and the benefits were seen almost immediately; kids were more energised, attentive, had improved concentration and better behavior. But, could running be the sport of choice for your child? Why is running great for kids? Running comes naturally to children – just look around a playground. It also forms a number of games – playing ‘It’, running races, etc. Entry level You don’t need much equipment but you must invest in a good pair of running shoes, fitted by an expert. Your child’s feet are still growing and changing, so restricting them and having inadequate support can lead to injury and long-term problems. How to get started Download a programme like ‘Couch to 5K’ or ‘Athletics 365’ and start with a short run and work up to longer distances. Kids can join in with the ParkRun activities and some offer a junior version, with a 2km distance. Warm up and warm down Start with an injury-avoiding warm-up session: 3 Walk briskly for five minutes 3 Jog slowly, speed up gradually, then walk and shake out your legs 3 Skip, do high steps and skip sideways Warm down with a walk to encourage blood to return to resting flow, then follow with gentle stretches. Have a look at running websites for tips on the best warm-up and cool down routines. Fringe benefits Running can also help with other sports such as football and rugby, allowing your child to concentrate on skills and technique. Supporting their body Make sure your child eats well and is well hydrated. A balanced diet with plenty of

protein, fruit and vegetables will help them. Make sure they have water frequently and avoid sugary energy drinks. Things to be aware of 3 Nobody should run with an injury 3 Keep it fun 3 Don’t time them 3 Make sure your child gets plenty of rest 3 Build up gradually 3 Encourage them to slow down when tired

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Sally J. Hall is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent and The Mail. She is author of Eco Baby and contributing author to Watch My Baby Grow (Dorling Kindersley).

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CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

The benefits of learning a musical instrument By Sally J Hall

Discover the benefits that can be gained from your little musician learning to play their favourite instrument...

will see a huge confidence boost, which will help them to become more self-assured as they grow.

An improvement in social skills

Learning an instrument is a slow, sometimes arduous task and the traits that children must acquire are patience and the ability to practise.

Playing music is a great way to make friends. Not only are children who play instruments encouraged to join groups and orchestras at school but you’ll often find them getting together outside of school hours too.

They have improved motor skills

Creating notes from an instrument, whether it’s brass, woodwind, percussion or strings, helps a child fine-tune their motor skills. Minute movements of the hands and fingers are believed to help create neurological pathways in the brain.

Find out more about music classes and the benefits of learning a musical instrument from Families Online: www.familiesonline.co.uk/music

Persistence is taught

extra

They become creative and have a sense of achievement

Once a child has mastered making sounds from their instrument, they often begin to experiment. Although they may never be an improvisational genius, this leads to creativity, which in turn creates a sense of achievement.

A confidence boost

There’s no doubt that a child who feels they can manage a task (such as performing a simple tune) is filled with confidence. As their skill improves and practise pays off, your child

Award winning classes from newborn to 5 years

Gymboree Walton on Thames 01932 221 371

Sean Guitar Tuition

waltononthames@gymboree-uk.com

Gymboree Surbiton ion iat

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 020 8607 9995

stmargarets@gymboree-uk.com .u k

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

January-February 2017

Saturdays at Ritz Music, Richmond TW9 1UF.

c so

ce en

Beginners/ Improvers Rock Pop Folk Blues Jazz. Call Sean Flood to Book Your First Lesson 07932 723 010 sean.flood@hotmail.co.uk

Book a FREE trial class today!

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

gymboree-uk.com

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CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

Perform takes flight with Peter Pan this February

Join Perform and Peter Pan this February half term on a three-day adventure to Neverland.

The holiday course for four to seven year olds takes place from 13 to 15 February in Kew, and with a sprinkle of fairy dust and Peter, the Lost Boys and Tinkerbell in tow, children will be transported to the land where no one grows up for the best fun of the holidays. Perform’s team of skilled actors, musicians and dancers will work their magic guiding each child every step of the

way to inspire and encourage them to project their voices, learn energetic dance routines, sing catchy songs and develop the Perform 4 Cs: Confidence, Concentration, Communication and Coordination. On the last day, children will put on a show-stopping performance to delight family and friends, complete with imaginative costumes and original songs. The course costs £225 and siblings receive a 25% discount.

For find out more, visit www.perform.org.uk/peterpan

Street and hip hop dance classes from Perform launch in Esher Perform, the children’s drama school, is to bring its popular street and hip hop classes to Esher this February.

Fresh, modern, exciting and exhilarating, Perform X dance classes for six to twelve year olds are unique high-energy weekly sessions designed to boost children’s coordination, improve their concentration and give them a fun, energetic way to develop physical skills, get fit and have fun. Using original street and hip-hop music, Perform X classes are based around a specially designed curriculum which includes a mix of energetic games, physical improvisations and high octane exhilarating moves guaranteed to get young hearts beating

faster. All class materials are produced by Perform and at the end of each term, there’s a performance of a choreographed piece to a specially written track. Perform Principal Lucy Quick says, ‘Perform X street and hip hop classes launched in January 2016 in just four pilot venues. The classes have proved so popular that we’re constantly opening new schools to meet demand and we’re delighted to be bringing Perform X to Esher in February.’ Perform X classes take place on Fridays at Perform Esher so why not try a FREE, no-obligation trial class?

For more information, visit www.perform.org.uk

Indoor soft play for Under 5’s

Sunshine Play Cafe Open Mon -F 10am-3pm ri Term Tim , Half Term e, an Occ. Holid d ays

Check website for Entry prices Events Party packages

Twickenham RFC South Road Hampton TW12 3PE Free Parking

Warm, fun, safe place to play while you relax! Hot drinks, homemade cakes, hot and cold food and kids lunchboxes Crafts, Toys, Bouncy Castle, Books, Magazines and Baby Play Area.

For more info, check website or call Sarah: 07949 135 211

info@sunshineplaycafe.co.uk www.sunshineplaycafe.co.uk 26

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January-February 2017

CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

You’re never too young to dance at Elizabeth James Dance Academy

Budding ballerinas will love the family friendly approach to dancing at Elizabeth James Dance Academy. Little ones as young as 18 months can join The Melody Bear Little Feet programme. Here they are encouraged to explore rhythm, physical development, co-ordination, spatial awareness and social skills with the help of Melody Bear. In each lesson the children learn action songs and use props and simple ballet movements to develop their skills. At the end of each class the children are awarded with a Melody Bear sticker which provides them with a real sense

of achievement. Once they have collected 12 stickers they receive a badge, and after collecting three badges move on to the ballet classes. Children can start ballet from the age of two-and-ahalf. These lively and fun classes use props to excite the children’s imagination and enhance their performance skills as they develop their musicality, grace, poise and expression. Once the basic skills have been established, pupils can join Lolli Pop (from age three) where they will learn superstar routines full of creativity and laughter. These classes are perfect for non-stop

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

movers who can’t resist a good pop song and are particularly popular with boys. When your child turns four they can join the tap classes where they will learn musicality and co-ordination and once they are in Reception they can attend the Street Dance classes. Here they will learn routines with attitude, explore locking, popping and hip hop and the latest trends such as tutting too. The school disco will never be the same again! Classes take place in Richmond, Kew and East Twickenham with Saturday classes and Dance Parties now available. Pupils can take exams if they wish but dancing for pleasure is strongly encouraged too.

Classes in:

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

vicky@pyjamadrama.com

Next issue March/April 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

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for regular Competitions and Discount Codes @kiddikicks

Training sessions, courses and parties across London

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get in touch with your local kiddikicks for details Quote F.U.T for a FREE TRIAL

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January-February 2017

Kiddikicks HQ

NW Surrey

Includes Richmond, Twickenham, Sheen, Brentford and Chiswick

Includes Kingston, Weybridge, Pyrford, Byfleet and East Molesey

020 7937 7965

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CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES

Football coaching with a difference at Coerver

year-round programme where boys and girls learn football skills, but also gain confidence, become more creative, communicate more and learn to take responsibility. This makes a big difference at school and home.’

BE GOOD AT BEING YOURSELF

COBHAM 0203 723 9702 stagecoach.co.uk/cobham HINCHLEY WOOD 01372 238238 stagecoach.co.uk/hinchleywood KEW 020 8487 1456 stagecoach.co.uk/kew NEW MALDEN 0208 540 7791 stagecoach.co.uk/newmalden RICHMOND 020 8332 6741 stagecoach.co.uk/richmond

Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year olds, where students learn to embrace life with creativity and courage

STAINES 01483 235216 stagecoach.co.uk/staines WEYBRIDGE 0808 208 5134 stagecoach.co.uk/weybridge TEDDINGTON 0208 9770843 stagecoach.co.uk/teddington

™

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To find out more, visit www.coerver.co.uk/westlondon

CHERTSEY 0772 517 6102 stagecoach.co.uk/chertsey

Unlock your child’s potential with Stagecoach Performing Arts

Creative Courage For Life

Coerver Performance Academy has venues in Houslow and Kingston.

TWICKENHAM 0208 9770843 stagecoach.co.uk/twickenham

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

Coerver Coaching offers a unique football coaching experience for children. Founded in 1984, Coerver is an established coaching organisation and has partnered some of the biggest clubs and federations around the world. The Performance Academy is open to boys and girls aged between 7 and 16 who want to improve their skills and become better footballers. Focused on developing the 5 ‘S’ model, Coerver concentrates on combining SKILL with SPEED, SENSE and STAMINA to teach its young footballers how to use match-winning skills on the pitch. The final ‘S’ is about playing with the correct SPIRIT, so win or lose, players have fun and learn about supporting their team mates. Players train weekly and during the school holidays. The focus is on individual development so all players that attend can expect to improve and reach their maximum potential. However, the sessions don’t stop there, as the individual skills are used in small groups so players are learning how to be team players at the same time. ‘Our mission is to develop skilled, confident, creative players who combine well with team mates and have the skills to go it alone,’ says Coerver Director, Amit Sohal. ‘We offer a

January-February 2017

CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES ART & CRAFT

CERAMICA Ages: All An ideal place for a get-together, this bright, cosy, unique, ‘paint your own ceramic’ studio brings out the artist in everyone! Services include studio painting sessions, annual membership scheme, gift vouchers, baby hand and foot print sessions, birthday parties, evening painting sessions for adults, off-site functions, ‘take home’ packs and commissions. In: Claygate Contact: Hannah Young 01327 462447 www.ceramica-claygate.co.uk 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 in the kiln, and their piece is ready for collection within two to four days. Open Tuesday to Sunday, Mondays on Bank Holidays/half terms. In: Kew Contact: Joanna Wronka 020 8332 6661 www.ceramicscafe.com

BABY & CHILD DEVELOPMENT

GYMBOREE Ages: 0-5 Award winning Play and Learn, Art, Music and Sensory Play for Babies. Classes are designed by experts in early childhood development to help young children learn as they play and teach grown-ups fun and interesting ways to engage with them. FREE TRAIL CLASS! Check with centres for details. Surbiton and Walton: FREE Baby Massage classes for newborns to age 1 year with a fully trained IAIM instructor. In: St Margarets, Surbiton, Walton St Margarets 020 8607 9995

stmargarets@gymboree-uk.com Surbiton 020 3609 8007 surbiton@gymboree-uk.com Walton 01932 221371 walton@gymboree-uk.com www.gymboree-uk.com

DANCE

BROOKS DANCE ACADEMY INTRODUCING PETITES POINTES BALLET Ages: 2.5-9 A captivating and interactive introduction to classical ballet through storytelling for children aged 2.5-4. For children over 4 years this creative and interactive approach is combined with the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus. In: Surbiton Contact: Laura Brooks 07958530962 laura@brooksdanceacadeny.co.uk brooksdanceacademy.co.uk ELIZABETH JAMES DANCE ACADEMY Ages: 18mths-14yrs Fun and vibrant lessons that nurture talent and encourage self-expression along the way. Ballet students follow the RAD syllabus and train to exam standard. Pre-school classes follow imaginative stories and themes. Street Dance classes are bursting with energy and attitude and are loved by boys and girls. All are welcome! FREE TASTER CLASSES available before enrolling. NEW: more ballet and street dance classes at all locations. We now offer fabulous dance parties for all occasions. In: Richmond Hill, Kew and St. Margarets Contact: Suze Bailey 07815 289306 suze@ elizabethjamesdanceacademy.co.uk www.elizabethjamesdanceacademy. co.uk ENGLISH NATIONAL BALLET ENBS JUNIORS Ages: 3-7 English National Ballet School

founded ENBS Juniors to provide high-quality weekly ballet classes for children from pre-school age. Open to all without audition, these classes focus on embedding strong ballet technique within a creative and fun atmosphere. In: Richmond on Thursdays Contact: Helen Goddard 020 7376 7076 info@enbschool.org.uk www.enbschool.org.uk KEW ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS Ages: 2.5yrs-Adult Classes include RAD Ballet, ISTD Tap and Modern, Acrobatic Arts classes, Contemporary, LAMDA Drama and a bi-annual school performance. FREE TRIAL CLASS available. In: Richmond, Kew Contact: Victoria Maitland 01932 423456 or 07967 341117 kewacademy@hotmail.com www.kewacademydance.co.uk KINGSTON BALLET SCHOOL Ages: from 3 Kingston Ballet School creates an atmosphere in which your child’s love of dance can thrive, in a fun and happy school which has excellent standards. Ballet classes are designed to meet the needs and abilities of children from the age of 3. Commencing with simple movements based on story ideas, young children work to develop confidence, coordination and imagination, before embarking on the RAD Ballet syllabus at the age of 5. ISTD Tap and Modern is also taught and all pupils get the opportunity to perform in the school’s tri-annual show. In: New Malden Contact: Louise Jefferson 07909 139149 kbslouise@btinternet.com www.kingstonballetschool.com

DRAMA & STORYTELLING PERFORM Ages: 4-12

A unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child’s true potential. Small classes and lots of individual attention. FREE TRIAL! NEW in February: Street and Hip-hop classes in Esher for 6-12s. In: Isleworth, Kew, Richmond, Twickenham, Hampton, Staines, Sunbury, Teddington, Esher, Kingston, Surbiton, Weybidge, Brentford, East Sheen and Mortlake Contact: Lucy Quick 020 7255 9120 www.perform.org.uk PYJAMA DRAMA Ages: 10mths-2yrs, 2-5 & 5-7 Pyjama Drama offers a lively, fast-paced fusion of themed action song, rhyme, music and movement, and dramatic storytelling in a fun environment for children aged 10 months to 2. The classes for 2 to 5 year olds see your child transported on a different and unique journey of the imagination through an exciting fusion of action songs, game-play and child-led improvisation. At age 5 to 7 your child’s imagination takes centre stage in their classes. The children finish the weekly story and their ideas shape the themed games that they play, and the drama that they create from the story, and the characters that they explore. Classes support a child’s development in concentration, communication, cooperation and confidence and complement the KS1 Curriculum. In: Cobham, East Molesey, Hersham, Ashtead, Claygate, Walton Contact: Vicky Campbell-Hall vicky@pyjamadrama.com www.pyjamadrama.com STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS Ages: 4-18 Fun, educational and confidence-boosting classes

A fearless start to the year with Explore Learning

Why fearless you might ask? And what does this even mean? At Explore Learning a child’s educational journey goes beyond acing a quick spelling test or getting to the top of the class for a term. It is about building long-lasting confidence that takes them

through their entire life, whether it is through developing a ‘have a go attitude’, or knowing it’s OK to put their hand up without fear of a ‘silly’ question being mocked, or simply feeling excited about their next step. It’s about nurturing a sense of pride and a fearless attitude to learning, so that every child can become their version of amazing. The tutors at Explore Learning are there to support every step of the way, and rather than a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’, they will ask: ‘are you sure?’ or ‘can you convince me of your answer?’ This allows children to explore and push the boundaries of their thinking each day.

To celebrate the New Year and all of the potential it brings, Explore Learning is offering you a little something to help your child along their fearless learner journey. From 16 January until 28 February you can save £50 when you join any one of Explore Learning’s Maths and English tuition centres. To book your FREE trial, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk/offer

To find your nearest centre and to book your FREE trial, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk January-February 2017

www.familiesonline.co.uk

CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES in singing, dancing and drama, which cater for the varying needs of young performers, whether reserved or budding talents. Classes focus on singing, dancing and drama, rather than rehearsing for an end of term presentation, so that every child has a chance to shine, learn and develop. Two-week trial option available. In: Chertsey 0772 517 6102, Cobham 0203 723 9702, Hinchley Wood 01372 238238, Kew 020 8487 1456, New Malden 020 8540 7791, Richmond 020 8332 6741, Staines 01483 235216, Teddington & Twickenham 020 8977 0843, Weybridge 0808 208 5134 www.stagecoach.co.uk

MUSIC

MONKEY MUSIC Ages: 3mths-4yrs 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 and Surbiton 020 8224 3971, Banstead, Claygate and Esher 01932 223309, Weybridge, Cobham, Hersham, Walton and Molesey 020 8224 0096, Kew, Richmond, Twickenham and Teddington 020 8847 4031 www.monkeymusic.co.uk SEAN FLOOD GUITAR LESSONS Ages: All Electric/acoustic guitar lessons with registered guitar tutor (Dip LCM TD), teaching RGT grades. Teaching folk/pop/rock/jazz/ blues. Beginners and improvers welcome. DBS cecked. In: Richmond (Ritz Music) Contact: Sean 020 764 6705/07932 723010 sean.flood@hotmail.co.uk

PLAY CAFÉS & SOFT PLAY SECRET GARDEN PLAY CAFÉ Ages: 0-4 The Secret Garden Play Café is a new space in which adults and children can explore freely around the room. The Sensory Room, suitable for newborns to 2 years has sounds, moving lights, musical toys, feely bags and bubble tubes with fish. The Mini Soft Play is perfect once your baby is crawling up to 4 years with a ball pit, slide, ride ons, buggies and Thomas the Tank Engine on a roller coaster track! Mummy and Baby Yoga and Pregnancy Yoga also available. Open: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm In: Kingston Contact: 020 8549 0022 info@secretgardenplaycafe.co.uk www.secretgardenplaycafe.co.uk SUNSHINE PLAY CAFÉ Ages: 0-5 Activities include craft tables, cosy book corner, bouncy castle, train track, ride-on toys, dolls, soft toys, a baby area with play mats and soft toys. Fresh coffee, hot chocolate, teas, soft drinks, homemade cakes, sandwiches, hot and cold food, children’s lunchboxes and complimentary magazines available. Children’s haircuts and Crafty Tales sessions. 1.5 hour 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

SPORT

CATCH-A-BALLS MULTI-SKILLS CLASSES Ages: 18mths-school age Fun ball game-based activities

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

Fun and interactive Yoga classes for families with children from 3 years old in New Malden. Contact Christine on 07930557569 or info@yogaberry.net www.yogaberry.net 30

www.familiesonline.co.uk

for pre-school children that develop skills such as throwing, catching, rolling and using bats. Indoor venues so kids stay warm and dry and get full enjoyment. New games and props each term to ensure the children are kept interested and experience a wide range of skills, preparing them for a wide range of sports. Club BOING: 18mths-2.5yrs; Club BOUNCE: 2.5-3.5yrs; Club CATCH: 3.5yrs to school age. In: Teddington, Thames Ditton, Richmond, Claygate, Esher, East Twickenham, Hampton, Surbiton, New venues in Cobham and Walton-onThames Contact: Heather or Annie 020 8398 3034 contact@catch-a-balls.co.uk www.catch-a-balls.co.uk COERVER FOOTBALL PERFORMANCE ACADEMY AND FIRST SKILLS Ages: 5-7 (First Skills) & 7-16 (Performance Academy) Player development programme for boys and girls, teaching game-effective technical football skills – based on World’s No.1 Soccer Skills Teaching Method. Learn to play like the best players in the world and improve your child’s personal skills, such as confidence, creativity and teamwork. FREE Trial Session for new players. In: Hounslow (Performance Academy only), Kingston (Performance Academy & First Skills) Contact: Matt Suggitt 02035442284 westlondon@coerver.co.uk www.coerver.co.uk/westlondon FOOTIE TOTS Ages: Footie Tots: 2.5-5yrs Footie Wizards: 5-13yrs An introduction to the world of fitness and football with lots of goal 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-10yrs 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: Jen 020 3560 9256; Twickenham, Whitton, Isleworth, Feltham, Hampton: 020 7937 7965; Richmond, Sheen, Barnes, Brentford: Sarah 020 7937 7965 www.kiddikicks.co.uk LONDON KARATE KARATE WITH LONDON KARATE LTD Ages: 4+ The lessons strongly emphasise the importance of good manners, self-discipline and respect for peers, parents, carers and teachers within the lesson. 3 FREE TRIAL CLASSES AVAILABLE WHEN YOU MENTION THIS LISTING! In: Richmond, Kingston, Brentford, Weybridge, Roehampton, Hampton Contact: 07538497798 contact@londonkarate.co.uk www.londonkarate.co.uk RUGBYTOTS Ages: 2-7 Fun, enthusiastic, weekly play programme which uses rugby specific skills to aid the

Catch-a-balls expands with new classes in Cobham and Walton This January Catch-a-balls, the popular ball and movement skills class for children aged 18 months to five years, is launching Club Boing and Club Bounce in Cobham and Walton. Club Boing is perfect for children aged 18 months to two-and-a-half years and concentrates on ball skills, colours and numbers. With the help of imaginative games and fun props, children begin to learn ball control through catching and throwing and challenge their bodies in a variety of movements, all of which will see your child gain in confidence. If your child is between two-and-a-half and three-and-a-half then Club Bounce is a perfect choice. At this age they are much stronger and the classes utilise their increasing strength and balance. In this class the activities incorporate balancing, running and jumping

as they are challenged with racquet skills, ball games and different equipment. Classes run on a Monday in Cobham and a Tuesday in Walton. For a FREE trial or to enroll, visit www.catch-a-balls.co.uk/free-trial January-February 2017

WHAT’S ON & where

SWIMMING

TEAM SWIM SCHOOL (WAS PK SWIM) 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. Small groups, great results. In: Cobham Contact: Paul Furness 07915510720 info@teamswimschool.com www.teamswimschool.com WATER BABIES Ages: 0- 4yrs 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, Bordon, Woking, Godalming, Cobham, Farnham, Addlestone Contact: Melissa Holt 01932 227 428 underthewaves@waterbabies. co.uk www.waterbabies.co.uk January-February 2017

LOCAL THEATRE guide

It’s a bear-tastic half term at Watermans This half term, visitors to Watermans in Brentford can enjoy some beary good fun courtesy of Raymond Briggs popular book,The Bear. Following on from their highly successful adaptation of Father Christmas with Lyric Hammersmith, Pins and Needles brings another classic story to life with this funny and touching adaptation of The Bear on 14, 15 and 17 February. One night when she’s fast asleep, an enormous snowy white bear climbs into Tilly’s bedroom. It has a big black tongue and a yawn as big as your head. But Tilly’s not scared. With dazzling, large-scale puppetry, fabulous music, dreamy storytelling and dozens of laughs, The Bear is an unforgettable event for

the whole family. So bring your favourite bear and join Tilly and her great white friend on this wild and magical adventure. As well as the theatre performance there will be various arts and crafts workshops for families.

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 0345 313 3242 enquiries@rugbytots.co.uk www.rugbytots.co.uk YOGABERRY KIDS & FAMILY YOGA Ages: 2+ Creative classes incorporating yoga postures, stories, rhymes and dance. Basic relaxation and breathing exercises delivered in a playful way. Parents and kids get the chance to stretch, laugh and move together. FREE Trial class. In: New Malden Contact: Christine Jaureguiberry info@yogaberry.net www.yogaberry.net

Cardboard Carnival provides plenty of puppetry and animal fun at Watermans on 5 February

For further information and for booking, visit www.watermans.org.uk

WHAT’S ON & where 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 the latest films for parents or carers with babies under one. 020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk EVERY WED DURING TERM TIME PANDEMONIUM AT WATERMANS ART CENTRE 40 High St, Brentford TW8 0DS Ages: 0-2yrs & 2-4yrs 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 SELECTED THURSDAYS AND SATURDAYS TINY EXPLORERS AT HAMPTON COURT PALACE East Molesey KT8 9AU Ages: 0-3yrs Time: sessions 10.30am-3.30pm Cost: £6 per session Discover the fascinating stories of Hampton Court Palace in these multi-sensory workshops. Through music, movement and messy play, you and your little one will be

transported into a magical world of stories. Booking required. 0844 482 7799 www.hrp.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 28 JAN GIANT LEGO® BRICK-ANIMAL TRAIL AT LONDON WETLAND CENTRE Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes SW13 9WT Times: 9.30am-4.30pm Cost: FREE with Normal admission Enjoy a trail of 11 individually designed 1.5m LEGO® brick animals, including the world’s rarest goose, an otter, a frog and a kingfisher. 0208 409 4400 www.wwt.org.uk JAN GEOCACHING JANUARY AT HATCHLANDS East Wing Hatchlands, East Clandon, Guildford GU4 7RT Time: 10am-3pm Enjoy a modern-day treasure

hunt in the parkland. Bring your smartphone or borrow a GPS device. 01483 222482 www.nationaltrust. org.uk/hatchlands-park 5 JAN TO 30 MAR RULES AND ROLLERSKATES: THE PERKS OF LIFE IN SERVICE AT POLESDEN LACEY Great Bookham, near Dorking RH5 6BD Time: 10am-4pm Learn about life in service from duties to downtime and the work-life balance of Mrs Greville’s servants. 01372 452048 www.nationaltrust. org.u/polesden-lacey EVERY WEEKEND 7 JAN TO 5 FEB WEEKEND FAMILY ACTIVITIES AT LONDON WETLAND CENTRE Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes SW13 9WT Times: 9.30am-4.30pm Cost: FREE with Normal admission Hear tales of wetland creatures and their amazing adventures by the fire. Then make a bird feeder or join the learning team to discover some of the amazing plants and animals that live there. 0208 409 4400 www.wwt.org.uk

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WHAT’S ON & where 14-15 JAN A SQUARE WORLD AT WATERMANS ART CENTRE 40 High St, Brentford TW8 0DS Ages: 3-6 Times: 11am Cost: £5 per person When the daily routine of three friends’ lives suddenly changes, they discover with a little fun and some mayhem how to adapt their world so they can keep playing together. 020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk 14 JAN TO 5 MAR BUTTERFLIES IN THE GLASSHOUSE AT RHS WISLEY Woking GU23 6QB Time: 10am-3.45pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Step into the Glasshouse this winter as it transforms into a tropical paradise with more than 6,000 free-flying exotic butterflies. 0845 260 9000 www.rhs.org.uk/wisley 15 JAN STORY CAFE AT RIVERHOUSE ARTS CENTRE Manor Road, Walton KT12 2NZ Ages: 3+ Time: 3.30pm Cost: £4 Enjoy an afternoon of storytelling, crafts, themed activities and a teatime treat. This month’s book is Smiley Shark by Ruth Galloway. 01932 254198 www.riverhousebarn.co.uk 20 JAN MUSEUM MONKEYS AT CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT For Ages: Under 5s. Time: 9.30-11am Cost: £5 Join Charlie the Chimp for singing, stories and crafts. Booking essential. 01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org 21 JAN YOUNG ARCHAEOLOGISTS CLUB AT CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT For Ages: 8-16 Time: 11am or 12.30pm Cost: £5 Find out about the amazing earth pyramids built in North America and reconstruct one of your own. Booking essential. 01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org 22 JAN BIG WOW, SMALL WONDER AT WATERMANS ART CENTRE 40 High St, Brentford TW8 0DS Ages: 4-9 Told with huge helpings of humour, poignant poetry and original music, this is a tall story about the wonders of being small. 020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk 32

29 JAN JACK & THE BEANS TALK AT WATERMANS ART CENTRE 40 High St, Brentford TW8 0DS Ages: 3-7 Charming and inventive with plenty of interaction, an enormous beanstalk, bags of gold and a smelly old giant. LUCKY DIP DISCO AT RIVERHOUSE ARTS CENTRE Manor Road, Walton KT12 2NZ Time: 3.30pm Cost: Child £7, Adult £5 Retro disco for children and adults to dance together. Booking essential. 01932 254198 www.riverhousebarn.co.uk

11 TO 19 FEB CHILDREN’S HALF-TERM TRAIL AT CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG Time: 10am-4pm Cost: 50p plus Normal Admission Find out about Claremont’s lost princess and her romance with a German prince. 01372 467806 www. nationaltrust.org.uk/claremontlandscape-garden FUN AT BOCKETTS FARM Young St, Fetcham, KT22 9BS Time: 10am-5.30pm Cost: FREE with Normal Admission Enjoy a great day out on the 3 FEB farm this half term with the MUSEUM MONKEYS AT start of the spring lambing. CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, There will be Birds of Prey flying Chertsey KT16 8AT demonstrations and a chance For Ages: Under 5s. Time: to meet the miniature Shetland 9.30-11am Cost: £5 Ponies in the Pony Parlour too. Join Charlie the Chimp for singing, 01372 363764 stories and crafts. Booking essential. www.bockettsfarm.co.uk 01932 565764 HALF TERM ACTIVITIES www.chertseymuseum.org AT HAM HOUSE Ham Street, Ham, TW10 7RS Time: 10am-4.30pm. 4 FEB Cost: Normal Admission 15 MINUTES OF FUN AT Join Ham House for holiday CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, storytelling, art activities and a Chertsey KT16 8AT children’s trail. Time: 1.30-3.30pm Cost: FREE 020 8940 1950 Make Carnival masks at this drop-in www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ family craft session. ham-house 01932 565764 LONDON PUDDLE JUMPING www.chertseymuseum.org CHAMPIONSHIPS AT LONDON KIDS RUN FREE AT WETLAND CENTRE Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, MARBLE HILL PARK Richmond Road, Barnes SW13 9WT Twickenham TW1 2NL Times: 9.30am-4.30pm Ages: 0-16 Time: 9am Cost: FREE with Normal Cost: FREE admission Free running events for children. Grab your wellies and use your 08703 331181 imagination to create the www.kidsrunfree.co.uk biggest most exciting splash! Each contestant will receive a sticker to celebrate their 5 FEB puddle-jumping skills! CARDBOARD CARNIVAL AT 0208 409 4400 www.wwt.org.uk WATERMANS ART CENTRE 40 High St, Brentford TW8 0DS SECRET SERVANTS: Ages: 4+ HALF TERM-TRAIL AT Taking inspiration from the music POLESDEN LACEY of Saint Saëns, a little help from Great Bookham, Charles Darwin and a load of near Dorking RH5 6BD everyday cardboard, Lempen Time: 10am-3pm Cost: £3 with Theatre mash up a show full of Normal Admission puppet possibility and plenty of Who brought in the cream? animals. Who spun silk for the 020 8232 1010 seamstress? Discover these www.watermans.org.uk secrets and more on this half-term trail. 01372 452048 www. HALF TERM nationaltrust.org.u/polesdenACTIVITIES lacey 11-17 FEB WHATEVER THE WEATHER HALF TERM AT HATCHLANDS East Wing Hatchlands, FOR BUTTERFLIES AT RHS East Clandon, Guildford WISLEY Woking GU23 6QB GU4 7RT Time: 10am-3.45pm Time: 10am-4pm Explore inside a tree, build a den or Create butterfly-themed run around in the rain and see how weather crafts – activities vary daily. many ’50 things’ you can enjoy. 0845 260 9000 01483 222482 www.nationaltrust. www.rhs.org.uk/wisley org.uk/hatchlands-park

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12 FEB BIG HOWARD’S LOL-TASTIC YUKFEST FOR KIDS AT WATERMANS ART CENTRE 40 High St, Brentford TW8 0DS Ages: 5+ Howard is a massive kid with a moustache. Join him in this hour of fun and laughter, featuring stand-up, interactive digital animation, sound effects, jokes and lots of clever nonsense. 020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk STORY CAFE AT RIVERHOUSE ARTS CENTRE Manor Road, Walton KT12 2NZ Ages: 3+ Time: 3.30pm Cost: £4 Enjoy an afternoon of storytelling, crafts, themed activities and a teatime treat. This month’s book is The Crunching Munching Caterpillar by Sheridan Cain and Jack Tickle. 01932 254198 www.riverhousebarn.co.uk 13 TO 17 FEB HALF TERM FAMILY FUN AT BROOKLAND’S MUSEUM Brooklands Road, Weybridge KT13 0QN Time: 10am-4pm Cost: Normal Admission Take a trip in a vintage-style car, join one of the Kids Tours on Concorde, follow a trail or take part in a family workshop. 01932 857381 www.brooklandsmuseum.com WILD LEARNING AT CLAREMONT LANDSCAPE GARDEN Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG Time: 10.30am-4.30pm Outdoor holiday club for children. Learn fun new things in the fresh air. For more details, costs and to book, visit www.wild-learning.net 01372 467806 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ claremont-landscape-garden 14 FEB HALF TERM HOLIDAY ACTIVITY AT CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT Ages: 5-12 Time: 10am-12.30pm Cost: £3 Make door hangers at this fun half-term activity. Booking required. 01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org 14 TO 17 FEB THE STAR AND GARTER HALF-TERM ACTIVITIES AT MUSEUM OF RICHMOND Whittaker Avenue, Richmond TW9 1TP Time: 10am-12pm Cost: £4 per child Discover the story of Joseph W Richards, a resident of the Star and Garter, and learn how you can make amazing art without using your hands! 0208 332 1141 www.museumofrichmond.com January-February 2017

WHAT’S ON & where Butterflies create a rainbow of colour at RHS Garden Wisley

This winter, step into the Glasshouse at RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey as it transforms into a tropical paradise for Butterflies in the Glasshouse. From 14 January to 5 March, more than 6,000 free-flying exotic butterflies, including 15 never seen at Wisley, will be on display. Escape into the warmth to see these colourful beauties gliding around the cathedrallike space, including blue

waves, giant swallowtails and tiger leafwings. The butterflies feel right at home in this rainforest-like Tropical Zone, filled with huge leaves and flowers including banana plants, floating wetland plants, bromeliads and palm trees. If you visit during half term (11 to 19 February) you can enjoy Whatever the Weather for Butterflies. This event includes butterfly-themed weather crafts which vary daily. Activities include learning how to make your own rain stick decorated with butterflies and how to create your own butterfly watering can. Or you can simply bring in any outgrown wellies to plant up with flower seeds to attract butterflies.

For more information, visit www.rhs.org.uk/wisley

Explosive fun 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, woodland walks and bike trails. Splash, Bubbles and Balloons arrives at The Look Out on 14 January. This bubbling and explosive show is not to be missed and is lots of fun! See if you can set fire to balloons or make water disappear in front of your eyes. And will the bubbles reach the ceiling? The shows run at the weekends from 14 January to 1 May, 11am to 3.15pm. For the younger ones why not have fun at a Toddler Day? On 17 and 18 January the arts and crafts theme is Space. Toddlers (and the grown-ups) are encouraged to dress up and receive a prize for their efforts. There will be lots of fun arts and crafts activities, plus face and hand painting

and story time. If you just want to explore and have your own nature hunt you can get maps of the woods and the discovery trails from reception. It’s thirsty work though, so don’t forget to refuel at the café!

For more information, visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/thelookoutdiscoverycentre January-February 2017

Spring lambing at Bocketts Farm

Enjoy a great day out at Bocketts Farm in Leatherhead this February half term with the start of the Spring lambing. There are up to 70 lambs due from 10 February and you may even see one being born! Birds of Prey will be at the farm from 13 to 17 February where you can meet them up close and watch the flying demonstrations twice daily. If you love horses, then you won’t want to miss meeting the miniature Shetland Ponies at the Pony Parlour,

which will be open for pony grooming sessions. What’s more, there is a full programme of fun farm activities throughout half term (11 to 19 February) including pony rides, tractor rides, animal handling and pig racing. Outdoors, enjoy the jumping pillows, treehouse towers, pedal go-karts and play trails. Plus the large indoor area with a giant heated playbarn, trampolines, ride-on tractors and a coffee shop means you can have a great day out whatever the weather!

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

Splashing animal fun at London Wetland Centre The London Wetland Centre in Barnes is an urban oasis for wildlife and people and at the moment it has some very special guests! If you visit during January you can go on a giant LEGO® brick-animal trail where the sculptures sit among some of their real-life cousins. The awesome models will form a trail for children to inspire them to build a better future for nature. Visitors will be able to enjoy the trail of 11 individually designed 1.5m LEGO® brick animals; included are the world’s rarest goose, an otter, a frog and a kingfisher. If you visit at the weekend (until 28 January) you can make your very own LEGO® brick frog and fly to take home. The London Puddle Jumping Championships will be held during February half term. Children of all ages can grab their wellies and have fun jumping in puddles in the fresh air from 11 to 19 February. Bring your wellies and wet-weather gear and come and have a splashing time! Use your imagination to create

the biggest, most exciting splash. Throw some shapes in the air for extra style! Every contestant will receive a sticker to celebrate their puddle-jumping skills. The adorable cows often stand out from the crowd of feathered animals on the reserve and although they aren’t wild, they play a crucial role in managing the wetlands. Spend time behind-the-scenes with these udderly amazing animals on 19 February to learn more about their importance and what the wardens have to do to look after these furry friends. Spaces are limited so you will need to book your place at admissions on the day.

For more information, visit www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/london

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WHAT’S ON & where

What to expect at a Harlequins match Harlequins are one of rugby union’s oldest and most famous club sides and this year they celebrate their 150th season. Playing their home fixtures at the 14,800-capacity Twickenham Stoop, almost a stone’s throw from Twickenham Stadium, the home of England Rugby, Harlequins offer an exciting day out for the entire family. Rugby union prides itself on being an inclusive sport and Harlequins home games are very much a friendly, family affair with supporters of both sides sitting amongst each other as they cheer their heroes on. The games themselves are often fast and furious affairs and over their long history Harlequins have established themselves as pioneers of an exciting and high tempo playing 16 FEB HALF TERM HOLIDAY ACTIVITY AT CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT Ages: 5-12 Time: 11am-3.30pm Cost: £3 Use your imagination to create wooden spoon animals. Booking required. 01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org

style, known fondly as ‘The Quins Way’. Competing in the Aviva Premiership, Quins welcome other famed club sides such as Saracens, Bath and Leicester to their ground each season with an array of international stars on display. Harlequins count England players Danny Care, Mike Brown and Chris Robshaw on their books, among others. A day out at The Stoop offers so much more than just a rugby game however. Kids can get their faces painted pre-match and supporters can take part in various fan competitions around the ground. In their 150th year, Quins have also set up a special photo booth for fans to pose with a number of vintage accessories and capture their memories from the game. The players are also happy to sign autographs and take photos outside the players’ tunnel 18 FEB YOUNG ARCHAEOLOGISTS CLUB AT CHERTSEY MUSEUM 33 Windsor Street, Chertsey KT16 8AT Ages: 8 -16 Time: 11am or 12.30pm Cost: £5 Discover the mysteries of the Aztec and Mayan Pyramids and how they were used, what they looked like when new and how they were important in everyday life. Booking essential. 01932 565764 www.chertseymuseum.org

Bocketts Farm Park 11th - 19th Feb 2017

FEBRUARY HALF TERM FUN ENJOY FREE RANGE FAMILY FUN THIS FEBRUARY HALF TERM!

Daily birds of prey flying demonstrations! (Mon-Fri only) Plenty of indoor play & activities Early Spring lambing starts

Visit the Pony Parlour

PLUS PLUS: Animal handling, goat milking, tractor rides, pig racing and pony rides daily!

7RG0EOUS

GO WBORN NE S DUE LAMB

HEATED PLAYBARN & SEATING AREA!

www.bockettsfarm.co.uk #

SPECIAL

OFFER 34

D AR AW WI NN ING !

£2 OFF full price farm entry per person*

Valid weekends from 7th Jan - 5th Feb 2017. Only with this voucher (*max 5 people). Off Peak Winter Weekday rates of £6.50 per person apply Mon - Fri until 10th Feb 2017.

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Harlequins upcoming home fixtures: before they begin their warm-up. The fun doesn’t end with the final whistle either. Children and parents alike can head to the Kings Bar after the game where there is usually live music and also the Players Corner, where members of the team will join fans young and old to chat to them about the game, share a drink and pose for photos. To book tickets, visit www.tickets.quins.co.uk 19 FEB LUCKY DIP DISCO AT RIVERHOUSE ARTS CENTRE Manor Road, Walton KT12 2NZ Time: 3.30pm Cost: Child £7, Adult £5 Retro disco for children and adults to dance together. Booking essential. 01932 254198 www.riverhousebarn.co.uk UDDERLY AMAZING COWS AT LONDON WETLAND CENTRE Queen Elizabeth’s Walk, Barnes SW13 9WT Times: 10am-2.30pm Cost: FREE with Normal admission Spend time behind the scenes

Harlequins vs. Sale Sharks (7 January) Harlequins vs. Edinburgh (12 January) Harlequins vs. Sale Sharks (3 February) Harlequins vs. Leicester Tigers (24 February) Harlequins vs. Newcastle Falcons (25 March) Harlequins vs. Exeter Chiefs (15 April) Harlequins vs. Wasps (29 April)

with these amazing cows and discover how they play a crucial role in managing the wetlands. 0208 409 4400 www.wwt.org.uk 26 FEB CHESTER TUFFNUT AT WATERMANS ART CENTRE 40 High St, Brentford TW8 0DS Ages: 2-5 An action-packed escapade with a one-of-a-kind creature, Chester Tuffnut, the tree-mole who loves adventures. 020 8232 1010 www.watermans.org.uk

NEARLY NEW sales MUM2MUM www.mum2mummarket.co.uk COBHAM SUN 29 JAN & 12 FEB, 10am-12pm Cobham Village Hall, Lushington Drive, KT11 2LU SURBITON SAT 4 FEB, 10.30AM-12.30PM St Marks Church Hall, Surbiton KT6 4LS

TEDDINGTON SAT 4 FEB, 2PM-4PM Teddington Baptist Church, Church Rd, TW11 8PF HAMPTON SAT 25 FEB, 2PM-4PM Hampton Methodist Church, Percy Rd, TW12 2JT

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 FM

January-February 2017

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

Breathtaking Butterflies for Jungle Explorers Buy tickets now at rhs.org.uk/wisleybutterflies and save 10%. RHS members go free RHS Registered Charity No. 222879 / SC038262

THE BEAR

A really special half-term show with dazzling puppetry, delicious songs, dreamy storytelling and dozens of laughs.

watermans.org.uk

RAYMOND BRIGGS’

Be Amazed...

The Look Out Discovery Centre

Science and discovery fun over 90 activities. Bring this advert to get one free child with one full paying adult*. Valid until 31/03/17 *Terms and conditions apply.

Splash, Bubbles and Balloons 14 January 2017 - 1 May 2017 Shows run at weekends and school holidays. Age 3+

Open 10am - 5pm every day The Look Out Discovery Centre

Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW

London Wetland Centre

January-February 2017

Tel: 01344 354400 www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery

Families UT

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