families north west london magazine nov/dec 2014 issue 97

Including North Middlesex and South Hertfordshire (Queens Park, Wembley, Edgware, Stanmore, Harrow, Northolt, Northwood, Watford and all the areas in between)

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Issue 97: Nov/Dec 2014www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

Open Days, What’s On and much more inside!PLUS

North West London

American Football - Dodgeball - Handball - Basketball Tag Rugby - Softball - Gaelic Football - Rounders - Athletics Kwik Cricket - Gymnastics - Tennis - Climbing Wall - Fencing

Lacrosse - Netball - Volleyball - Archery - Martial Arts - Kin Ball Football - Badminton - Tri Golf - Uni-Hoc

Sportscoach are celebrating 10 years by expanding and

rebranding to SportsKids Academy

Sports Activities for 4 to 16 year olds Tel: 01923 255099 E: [email protected]

SportsKids - Multi-Sports Academy

We are located in Harrow and Rickmansworth

www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk

www.activetime.co.uk

HELPING YOU, YOUR BUSINESS AND YOUR FAMILY

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3NORTHWEST (LONDON) NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

IN THIS ISSUE:Welcome to the November/December issue! 4 Local News

8 Education News

12 School Open Days

13 Mummy on the Edge

14 Seasonal Shopping

16 Local Clubs and Classes

18 Competitions

19 What’s On

Scan our QR code

to take you straight

to the most current

local information!

www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

CONTACTUS:

Families North West London Magazine Editors:Heather Waddington and Janine Mergler

P.O. Box 2378, Watford WD18 1RF

T: 01923 237 004

E: [email protected]


www.facebook.com/FamiliesNWLondon

@FamiliesNW

Circulation 30,000+ copies every issue. Published seven times a year. For families from birth to twelve.

UPCOMING ISSUE: Jan/Feb 2015: Nurseries and Childcare. Deadline 25th Nov 2014 Send in your news, stories and advertising bookings to the details left.

Front cover image:

Deposit Photos @

lanakhvorostova

▲ Where’s Santa locally?

▲ Ice Skating

▲ Pantomimes & Christmas Shows

▲ Competitions

Trending articles on the FNWL website:

• Open8am-6pm51weeksayear• From3monthsto5years• Newlyrefurbished• Modernandwellequipped• Fullysafeandsecurebuilding• Largeoutdoorarea• Extra-curricularactivitiesofferedsuch

asFrench,MusicMovementandICT• Dedicatedbabyroomandoutdoor

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3monthsto5years

St Nicholas Nursery, Kingsbury NW9 8PNTel:0208 205 9744

www.stnicholasnursery.org.uk

Open Days:Friday7Nov&Sat8thNovFriday5thDecandFriday10thJan.10am-12pm

4 NORTHWEST (LONDON) NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Samba workshops to bring Brazilian fever to Northwood! Northwood Community Arts (NCA)

is offering a day of action packed Samba dance and drumming workshops taking place at St John’s Church, Hallowell Road, Northwood on Saturday 22nd November.

Participants will be given an opportunity to get into the infectious Brazilian rhythm by trying their hand at Samba drumming with various percussion instruments as well as learning how to dance, Samba style! There will be 2 workshops for both drumming and dancing. The Samba drumming workshops will run from 10am-11:30am and 1:30pm-3pm; the Samba dance workshops will run from 11:45am-1:15pm and 3:15pm-4:45pm. A single workshop is £3 per person and two workshops are £5 per person.

To secure places, contact Northwood Community Arts on 01628 675800 or

alternatively email [email protected]

Active Families HillingdonHillingdon Council are offering families access to sport and physical activity sessions with a monthly rolling programme for just £1 per child (5+) and adults (16+) go free.

The sessions are aimed at building confidence and creating opportunities. It’s not all about coaching in fact a lot is just about playing. The sessions are for everyone - in fact they insist that adults join in.

The activities run on a rolling monthly programme, you can sign up for email reminders by texting ACTIVE followed by your email to 80800 for free.

Their current sessions are:

Saturday 9:00-10:00 - Botwell Green Sports Centre, East Avenue, Hayes, UB3 2HW. Saturday 14:00-15:00 - Bishop Ramsey School, Hume Way, Eastcote, HA4 8EE. Sunday 9:00-10:00 - Abbotsfield Secondary School, Clifton Gardens, Hillingdon, UB10 0EX

Open to children aged 5+ yrs along with their older siblings and adult family members - there’s no need to book and everyone can

join in. www.hillingdon.gov.uk/change4life

News & Views from around North West London

Paediatric First Aid Courses

Sun 16 Nov Pinner/Harrow AreaAccepted for Voluntary OFSTED Registration. Training can be extended for Full Registration

at no further charge.Certificate valid for 3 years Cost = £85

Contact Margaret at [email protected] or on 07814 191 395 for bookings

Other dates available At Eggless Cake Delights you will learn all the techniques to

make homemade cakes, cupcakes, cookies etc

Classes are held in small groups in Harrow, Kenton

www.facebook.com/egglesscakedelights

Mobile: 0044 7737847405/ 07590337823

Email: [email protected]

www.egglesscakedelights.com


News and Views

A personalised Christmas Gift from Labels4KidsAfter a successful summer Labels4Kids are expanding their range further with the

introduction of personalised arts and crafts products made especially for your requirements. Take a look at some great ideas for Christmas, for teachers or for someone special. See the Gifts and PR or Corporate section of the www.labels4kids.com site here www.labels4kids.com/gifts-and-pr-or-corporate.html You’ll be surprised how many gift ideas you will find!

Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford

call: 0208 123 9346 email: [email protected]

Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet

call: 0208 201 1084 email: [email protected]

Harrow (HA3), North Wembley and Bushey call: 0208 422 0676

email: [email protected]

Looking for some extra cash? We are looking for a reliable person to distribute our magazine in Watford/Abbots Langley/Rickmansworth and Stanmore; Ruislip and Edgware/NW9

You will need to be available to distribute the magazine 7 times a year over the first week of Jan, Mar, May, July, Sept, Oct and Nov and have your own reliable transportation. Join our team of loyal distributors and start saving for your next holiday or some extra shopping cash!

Email us for more information

[email protected]

Cycle loan scheme is getting people on their bikes

People who live, study or work in the London Borough of Hillingdon have been discovering the benefits of cycling regularly thanks to Hillingdon Council’s cycle loan scheme.

Hillingdon Council launched the scheme in March 2014 and so far it has given 59 people

the chance to find out if bike ownership suits them. They each paid £20 to loan a bike, as well as safety equipment including helmets and hi-vis belts, for one month. When they collect their bike they are also given information about cycle training and guided rides in the borough.

Once the month is over they can either give back the bike or choose to buy it at cost price. Since the scheme began, 17 people have chosen to buy the bikes.

Ayomi Gure, 38, a resident from north Hillingdon who bought her bike through the cycle loan scheme, said: “I had so much fun with my two young children, exploring Hillingdon on our bikes. We discovered places we had never noticed before. We have great outings on our bikes and my husband is now looking to buy one too.”

To register interest in borrowing a bike from the council

through the cycle loan scheme, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/

cycling


News and Views

Sing and Sign baby signing classes come to Hatch EndThese fab, fun, multi-award winning baby signing classes taught by Angelina are now at Daisy’s in the Arts, the cafe at Harrow Arts Centre (as well as in Bushey, Harrow and Rickmansworth). With free parking and right next door to Morrisons, it’s the ideal place to learn to sign with your baby - the fun way!

For more details and info about a free trials

taking place at all venues this November,

email [email protected] or call

07956948776. Find them on facebook.com/

singandsignbaby

Santa to host a press conference at The Broadwalk CentreOn Saturday 30th November, the one and only Santa will be hosting a very unique press conference for children. For one day only, from 11am – 3pm, this once in a lifetime opportunity is set to offer children a chance to get the answers to the questions they have always wanted to ask. From “So just how do you fly around the whole world in one night?” to “How is your sleigh big enough to fit all the presents on? – Santa is set to have all the answers.

Throughout the day, with some help from a few festive friends and his amazing sleigh, Santa will be meeting little shoppers and their families and posing for some great Christmas photographs. What’s more, children will be entertained with some great performances and will be able to take home a special gift to keep as a momentum of the event.

www.thebroadwalkcentre.com

A Different Christmas idea for 2014? Instead of the filling up the toy box with more plastic toys that the children will tire of, what about a place at Jigsaw Performing Arts school. Jigsaw provide inspiring classes for children from 3 years to 18 years. Bookings paid for in full before Christmas will be given a free t-shirt (valued £10). They can also send a voucher that you can gift wrap with the t-shirt. You’ll be purchasing that special child, 11 weeks of performing arts fun!

Visit www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk or call 020 8447 4530 to purchase an

exciting and rewarding Christmas gift.


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Education News

• Maths and Verbal Reasoning

• Year 4 and Year 5 courses

• Ideal for students preparing for the 11+ exams

• 90 per cent. pass rate every year since 1987!

• To find out more and to register your interest, please visit www.sdeuk.org/swherts

• Free assessments

Registering

NOWYear 4 and

Year 5 Courses in Bushey

Stamp out bullyingBy Joanna Parry

National Anti-Bullying Week takes place 17-21 November, with this year’s theme of Let’s Stop Bullying Together. The Anti-Bullying Week website is packed with resources for schools, parents and children, plus online workshops and short films on how to survive bullying. Why not take part in their Anti-Bullying Competition, too? ‘Let’s Stop Bullying Together’ is an exciting opportunity for children to get involved in Anti-Bullying Week by designing a gadget, drawing a picture, writing a story, song or poem, taking a photo, or shooting a film or documentary. Entries can be fun, entertaining, serious, creative, colourful or futuristic, so get stuck in now for the chance to win a prize of up to £300.

To accompany National Anti-Bullying Week, Actionwork is running Anti-Bullying Month throughout November, with a theme of Creatively Dealing with Bullying. The Anti-Bullying Roadshow tours the UK with a packed spectacle

showcasing a variety of strategies in dealing with bullying, and highlighting ways to empowerment. Music and science, strategies and up-to-date research on bullying are all used in the workshops, plus they run Anti-Bullying Puppet Shows for younger children and creative cyberbullying workshops for older kids.

Bullying can happen to anyone at any age and at any time. National Anti-Bullying Week recommends ChildLine as an excellent resource on how to spot bullying, possible reasons of why bullying occurs and suggestions on how to stop it. ChildLine offers free support 24 hours a day on 0800 1111 or www.childline.co.uk. Find out more about bullying and how to stop it, as well as everything you need to know about Anti-Bullying Week at www.antibullyingweek.co.uk. Closing date for the Let’s Stop Bullying Together competition is 12 December 2014.

All children to start learning a language at Primary schoolby Hannah Hunter

As of this term, teaching a language will become mandatory from Key Stage Two (ages 7 to 11). Schools will be free to choose from French, German, Italian, Mandarin, Spanish, Latin or Ancient Greek. At Key Stage 3 the guidelines stipulate that a modern language must be taught. Most schools already have some provision for teaching languages, but the new guidelines mean that that there will be a more uniform approach across England, with a greater focus on grammar and written language.

According to the DfES programme of study: “A high-quality languages education should foster pupils’ curiosity and deepen their understanding of the world. The teaching should enable pupils to express their ideas and thoughts in another language and to understand and respond to its speakers, both in speech and in writing.”

With English teenagers scoring lowest for first foreign language skills in a recent European Commission study of 16 countries, the move to starting earlier is a positive first step towards improving language skills in all key stages.

Programme of study online: http://bit.ly/primarylanguage To read our appraisal of the new curriculum go to www.familiesonline.co.uk and search for ‘new curriculum’


Education News

Dissatisfaction with local school choice sees support for free schools grow amongst parents

Commissioned by The New Schools Network

1 in 4 would have chosen a different school if they had the chance. Over 1.6million families rate their local schools as average or worse. 73% of parents would consider sending their child to a free school.

The New Schools Network has published a nationally representative survey of parents, testing views on how they regard their local school, exploring what parents’ value in a good school and how their own school measures up.

Carried out by opinion research company Populus, the survey shows that there is significant dissatisfaction among parents. One in four parents would have chosen a different school if they had had a chance, representing 1.4 million families across the country. With 36% rating schools in their area as average at best, this amounts to 1.68 million families.

The survey asked parents to rate the importance they attached to various elements of a good school, and then to compare how they felt their own school performed on those same measures:

• 95% of parents say that the quality of lessons is important or very important, but only 74% rate their school as good or very good

• 93% of parents say that helping their child succeed in exams is important, but only 65% rate their schools as good or very good

• 92% of parents say that the school’s role in helping their child secure a place at university and/or a good job is important, but 58% rate their school as good or very good.

When free schools were described to respondents, 81% of those parents expressing a view said they thought such a school would be welcome in the local area, with 73% saying they would consider this school for their child.

Despite these levels of dissatisfaction, it is interesting to note that parents – those with direct experience of their local schools – have a more positive view of the quality of schools overall than the general public – 47% of whom believe local schools are average or worse.

Parents are also significantly more likely to support a longer school day, both through more time in formal learning and more after school clubs and activities.

Natalie Evans, Director of the New Schools Network commented:

“We know that there is an acute shortage of places in many parts of the country, but this survey confirms that there is also a considerable shortage of, what are perceived to be good school places, full stop. With 1.4 million families not able to send their child to their school of first choice, we cannot afford to ignore the case for new schools – both in areas where there is a shortfall of places and in areas where what is currently on offer is falling short.

“There is more work to be done to increase awareness of free schools, but this survey confirms that new schools are proving increasingly popular with parents who, above all, want the best education for their children. Free schools receive an average of nearly three applications for every place and are already making a positive difference to education. So far they are more than twice as likely to be judged outstanding by Ofsted, than other state schools”.

St. Christopher’s School Wembley Park

• Boys and girls 4 – 11 years• High academic achievement• Caring environment• Strong musical emphasis• Numerous educational outings• 4 scholarships in 11+entry exams

2014

OPEN MORNINGFriday 21st November 2014, 10am – 12 noon

No appointment necessary.

St Christopher’s School71 Wembley Park Drive, Middlesex HA9 8HE

Tel: 0208 902 5069

Visit our website http://stchristophersschool.org.uk

BUXLOW Preparatory School

Buxlow is a small preparatory school which has beenestablished in Wembley since 1927.

The School aims to provide a broad and balanced education within a happy caring environment where the uniqueness of each child is

recognised. We provide our children with the opportunity to achieve their academic potential and pride ourselves on not only these

achievements but also their musical and sporting prowess.Supportive and inclusive with high academic expectations we are at

the heart of the local community.If this is what you desire for your children

call Soo Denton on 020 89043615 or email [email protected] to arrange a visit.

www.buxlowschool.org.uk

St NicholasPreparatory School – founded 1937

NW London (Kingsbury/Wembley)

An independent day school for boys and girls from 3-11. www.stnicholasschool.org.uk

•Newly refurbished (Summer 2014)

•Small classes and bright, airy classrooms

•Great results in 11+ examinations

•A caring, nurturing environment with a family atmosphere

•After-school care and clubs

•Active PTA

We provide private education at a competitive price.

Address: 22 Salmon Street, Kingsbury, NW9 8PN E: [email protected] Tel: 020 8205 7153


Education

Elisa’s Tutorial School Edgware

from 21/2 years to 16 years of age.Give your child the best start.

26 years experience. Ex St. Michaels’Grammar School teacher. BA. PGCEExpert tuition in English, Maths and reasoning for 4 plus, 7 plus, 11 plus,

13 plus and also GCSE. Pre-school reading, maths and

writing classes taught through music, art, toys and stories, computer lessons also.

020 8958 119207956 868119Online tutoring available atwww.childrensstories.net

At Jaderberg Krais we have seen a shift in the latest challenges to successfully prepare our eleven plus students for their maths exams.

Previously, maths papers would have

contained classic grammar school

style questions, appropriate for

typical bright eleven year children.

However, around three years ago, there was

the introduction and increase in multi-step

problems solving and reasoning questions.

Various specialist assessment companies

were commissioned to provide ‘tutor-proof’

exam papers. One assumes this was to help

reduce the possible impact of maths tutoring

and increase the chances of finding genuinely

talented and able mathematicians.

However, in our experience, we meet

exceptionally talented young mathematicians

who still need guidance and strategies to

manage these challenging exam papers and

the new concepts that have not (and should

not) have been covered in regular primary

schools.

So whereas in the past, tutoring

introduced and honed the skills of a wide

variety of children ranging from able to very

bright, today even the brightest children need

support and guided practice to manage their

maths exams to achieve their full potential.

Timing in these exams has changed,

challenging children’s ability to process oral

information, follow instructions, be strategic

and pace themselves – as well as to calculate

the maths questions accurately.

Tutoring is an incredibly important part

of the preparation process for the eleven plus

exams. It reduces stress by preparing children

adequately so they know what to expect and

how to execute the tasks to the best of their

ability. As long as the tutor is sufficiently

knowledgeable regarding the actual papers

and process of these exams and the child

receives the best possible support and

guidance in the run up to their exams, then

the tutor may be paid help, a friend or a family

member – it’s all about the quality of tutoring.

We developed our JKT 11+ maths

workshops specifically to support the new

challenges of the eleven plus exams, to focus

on the areas not taught in any depth in school,

in years five and six: algebra, ratio, problem

solving and reasoning.

Children come to the workshops for a

morning or afternoon of maths challenges,

teaching and practice and, most importantly,

enjoy every minute of it! Not as revision

exercises before the exams, (which they

undoubtedly are), but they are perceived as

fun activities running alongside their other half

term extra-curricular activities.

We’re very proud of creating a series

of workshops so important, that they have

become a regular and extremely popular

choice activity, alongside the more traditional

drama, sport and art classes in the holidays.

By Lorrae Jaderberg

Jaderberg Krais offer educational advice, assessments and tutoring for all

children, including the 11+. If you would like more information contact Lorrae Jaderberg and Katie Krais on: 020 3488 0754 at www.

jaderbergkrais.co.uk

11+ maths workshops as popular as art, sport

and drama classes during the holidays!


Education


Please check school websites to confirm in advance of visiting advertised open days. Listings are subject to change.

Aldenham School Elstree WD6 Boys and Girls 3-18 yrs (Boarding/Day) [email protected]

Open Day: By appointment - Prep School 01923 851664. Senior School 01923 858122

Avanti House School Stanmore HA7. Boys and Girls 11-18 yrs. www.avanti.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8249 6830

Buxlow Preparatory School Wembley HA9 7QJ Boys and Girls 4 - 11yrs (Day) www.buxlowschool.org.uk

Open Morning: Fri 7 Nov, Fri 16 Jan 10:30am-12:30pm. 020 89043615

Buckingham College Preparatory School Pinner HA5 Boys School 4-11 years www.buckprep.org

Open Day: Mon 17 Nov. and Fri 21 Nov. - 9:30am - 12pm. 020 8866 2737.

Charlotte House Preparatory School for Girls Rickmansworth WD3. Girls 3+-11yrs. www.charlottehouseprepschool.co.uk

Open Day: Thu 5 Mar, Sat 7 Mar, Thu 7 May, Sat 9 May, all 9.30-11.30am. 01923 772101

Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School Elstree WD6 Boys 5-18 yrs. www.habsboys.org.uk


Haberdashers’ Aske’s Girls’ School Elstree WD6 Girls 4-18 yrs. www.habsgirls.org.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8266 2302 email [email protected]

High Elms Manor School Watford WD25, Boys and Girls 6 months – 11 years. www.highelmsmanorschool.com

Open Day: By appointment. 01923 681103

The John Lyon School Harrow on the Hill HA2. Boys 11-18 yrs. www.johnlyon.org


Krishna Avanti Primary School Edgware HA8. Boys and Girls 3-11 yrs.www.avanti.org.uk/kapsharrow


Merchant Taylor’s School Northwood HA6. Boys 11-18yrs www.mtsn.org.uk

Open Day: Sat 9 May 2015, 10am-12.30pm. To make an appointment for a school tour at an alternative time call 01923 845514

North London Collegiate School Edgeware HA8 Girls 4-18yrs. www.nlcs.or.uk

Open Day: By appointment. Jun Sch 020 8952 1276, Sen Sch 020 8951 6481/6468.

Northwood College Northwood HA6. Girls 3-18 yrs. www.northwoodcollege.co.uk

Open Day: Fri 27 Feb, Wed 6 May, 9.30am. Bluebelle House (nursery & Rcptn) Wed 19 Nov, Fri 6 Feb, 9.30-11am. 01923 825446.

Northwood Preparatory School Rickmansworth WD3 Boys 4-13. www.northwoodprep.co.uk

Open Morning: By appointment. 01923 825648.

Orley Farm Harrow-on-the-Hill HA1 Boys and Girls 4-13yr www.orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk

Open Day: By appointment. 020 8869 7634/7600

Reddiford School Pinner HA5 Boys and Girls 2yrs 9months – 11 yrs. www.reddiford.org.uk


Roxeth Mead School HA2 Boys & Girls 3-7yrs. www.roxethmead.com Open Day: By appointment. 020 8422 2092

Rudolf Steiner School Kings Langley WD4. Boys and Girls 0-18. www.rsskl.org


The Royal Masonic School for Girls Rickmansworth WD3 – Ruspini House Pre School (boys and girls aged 2-4) Cadogan House Pre-Prep and Prep Department (girls aged 4-11), Senior School (girls aged 11-18)

Open Day: By appointment. 01923 725354

Stanborough School Watford WD25 Boys and Girls 4-18yrs. Boarding/Day. www.spsch.org

Open Day: By appointment 01923 673268

St Christopher’s School, Wembley HA9 8HE Boys & Girls 4 – 11 years (day) [email protected]

Open Morning: Friday 21st November 2014 Tel. 020 8902 5069

St Helen’s School Northwood HA6. Girls, 3-18 yrs. www.sthn.co.uk Open Day: Wed 12 Nov, 9.30am-1pm. 01923 843230

St Hilda’s Preparatory School for Girls Bushey WD23 3-11yrs. www.sthildasbushey.co.uk


St John’s School Northwood HA6 Boys aged 3-13. www.st-johns.org.uk


St. Margaret’s School Bushey WD23 Girls 4-18 yrs (boarding/day) www.stmargaretsbushey.org.uk

Open Day: Thu 26 Feb, Thu 7 May, 9.30am-12pm. 020 8901 0872

St. Martin’s School Northwood HA6. Boys 3-13 yrs www.stmartins.org.uk


St Nicholas Nursery, Kingsbury NW9 8PN 3 months to 5 years www.stnicholasnursery.org.uk

Open Day: Friday 7 Nov & Sat 8 November, Friday 5 Dec and Friday 10 January 10am-12pm 0208 205 9744

York House Rickmansworth WD3. Boys and Girls 3-13 yrs www.york-house.com


Independent School Open Days


Usha Patel is a qualified Cogmed Coach for both adults and children.

For more information contact her by email [email protected] or

call 07766 837 616

Enrol before the 30th October and get a

discount of 10%

Angelina and Midi-Me share their favourite fast, local eats.

Discover and share more yummy and cheap eats at mynotesfromtheedge.blogspot.com.

Angelina runs Sing and Sign award-winning baby signing classes in Harrow, Bushey and Rickmansworth.

www.singandsign.com

What’s for dinner? This is a question that makes my blood curdle and contorts my face into the rictus of panic sported only by non-sensible people that do not shop and plan

meals accordingly. So, when asked this question by the ever-cheerful Midi-Me as she clambers, damp-fringed into the car carrying her weighty bag, flute and any number of other scholastic accoutrements, I provide a one word answer, which is not “Nandos” as she hopes but “Worms”. She finds this “really annoying, Mummy!” (-and that makes me say it more, because in our house I not only vacillate between the roles of Mother and Father but also - to ensure she experiences family life in full - torturous sibling.) Or sometimes I scrunch up my eyes and attempt to conjure a quick mental inventory of the contents of the fridge. On occasion, this might summon an image of 3 packets of reduced-to-19p spring onions currently of indeterminate culinary viability that I picked up in little local Tesco whilst buying ingredients at 8pm the night before Midi-Me’s home economics lesson (the previous week.) And it is on these occasions, especially at this time of the year when I am zig-zagging between three fairs and four concerts and five parties and two sponsored somethings and about twenty four classes when I can justify something that does not involve actual cooking by me. Don’t pretend you don’t know what I’m talking about.

Turban Street Cafe in Streatfield Road, Kenton is currently my favourite stop off on a weekday evening on the way

back from singing lessons serving fab, trad street food. We order a Kati Roll: a buttery, hankerchief-thin flatbread, cooked before your eyes, then stuffed with meat or veg or paneer and salad and sauces and rolled up for £4.95. If you are vegetarian, rest assured they have separate cooking surfaces. Sit, watch and... scoff. Mmm.

Hombres Mexican Kitchen on Imperial Drive in Harrow serves the best sweet potato fries I have EVER HAD. Super crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside and real tasty treat. They serve freshly prepared burritos and tacos. Not wanting to miss out on trying something weird,

I ordered jackfruit as a vegetarian filling option (alongside pork and chicken, - I’m no longer a virtuous vegetarian). Surprisingly delicious! They also do a kids meal including drink for £3.45 and host themed kids parties.

Both Cafe and Kitchen are decorated in a cool, street-vibey way, play funky music and serve healthy, fun and fast street food. Therefore no need for me to deliver emergency CPR to spring onions. Yay! Merry Christmas to you.

Mummy on the Edge


The holiday season is upon us once again, and unless you are amazingly prepared, there’s shopping to be done! The big retailers have been bombarding us for

weeks with their seasonal offerings, and you can rarely walk down the street or switch on the television without seeing adverts for this year’s seasonal must-haves.

Enjoyable shopping

But what about the things that the big businesses don’t offer? Often products and services small businesses can excel at providing – even sometimes handmade goods and locally

produced items; in-depth product knowledge and personalised advice; customer service; a friendly and enjoyable shopping experience.

Supporting the local economy

Added to all of this, when you buy local you are making an important contribution to your community’s economy. Spending money with local businesses causes a ripple-effect, as those businesses in turn spend locally, and on and on. A variety of research tells us that when £10 is spent in a local shop, between £16 and £50 goes back into the local economy, helping to improve local prosperity and create jobs.

Small Business Saturday (6th December)

Small Business Saturday UK is a grassroots, non-political, non-commercial campaign, which highlights small business success and encourages consumers to ‘shop local’ and support small businesses in their communities. The day itself takes place on the first shopping Saturday in December each year, but the campaign aims to have a lasting impact on small businesses. In 2014 Small Business Saturday UK will take place on Saturday 6th December.

Join us on the high street this holiday season and support your local (small) businesses to make your good will go even further!

Bizzy Bitz

My First and My Second Phonics PuzzleA toy to last through ages and stages! These attractive and interactive puzzle start out as a shape sorting task for the very young, becoming to a tool to support early reading skills for pre-schoolers. RRP £19.00 www.desidollcompany.com (Stanmore based!)

The Art of Conversation – KIDS!A pocket-sized, award-winning stocking filler, specially designed to get conversations flowing freely and ensure families really spend quality time with together.

RRP £9.98 www.taocusa.com

Tremendous developmental and educational benefits, no wonder it has won multiple awards. The brightly coloured, versatile pieces give endless opportunities to experiment and explore a world of creative possibilities. Suitable for children from 3 - 11+ yrs. RRP £5 to £50. www.bizzy-bitz.com

The BabyZoo SleeptrainerTo help children learn when it’s morning and an acceptable time to get up, Both analogue and digital clock, jungle sounds are optional! RRP: £32.00 Age 3 yrs+ www.babyzoo.eu

Christmas

TIS THE SEASON – FOR SHOPPING!Shop locally this holiday season and give more than just presents…

By Sal Jefford.

BRIO Osby horseTimeless toy brand BRIO celebrates their 130th anniversary this year. To mark the occasion, they’ve released its classic pull along horse, the first ever toy it produced. RRP £16.99 from birth. www.brio.net

First Sewing Kit Stegosaurus

Buttonbag is a British craft brand with a loyal following of fans. All kits are priced between £10 and £20 and contain an assortment of beautiful and contemporary fabrics, wools and trimmings. RRP £11.95 Ages 4+

www.buttonbag.co.uk

The Mini HornitWith 25 hilarious sounds and a light, it can be attached on scooters and bikes. It also provides important safety features: it lights the riders’ path as well as gives them the opportunity to warn pedestrians they’re on their way. RRP £19.99 www.thehornit.com

Fisher-Price laugh & learn vacuum

Featuring Smart Stages™ technology, where you can select

the stage that’s best for your child. Suitable for 12 months plus RRP

£24.99 www.fisherprice.co.uk

For aspiring astronautsThe devil is in the detail with the HAPE Discovery Spaceship. Complete with aliens and astronauts, this charming wooden spaceship and lift-off rocket provide fuel for

imaginative explorations into any galaxy. Perfect pre-schooler present. RRP £99.99 For 8yrs+ www.hapetoys.com

Some Families

Favourites to look out for this season!

A.“Both have families in mind!”www.bizzy-bitz.com

The Age of Not Believing: A Christmas Tale by Andrew Szlachetko (Local Ealing based author)

We have 5 e-copies to give away! Visit our Facebook page to find out more! www.Facebook.com/FamiliesNWLondon

Charming children’s story promises to teach young readers that Christmas doesn’t have to lose its magic when they reach a certain age. Ebook RRP £2.99 www.theageofnotbelieving.com


Education

Families NW London Magazine is distributed to over 30,000 families.

To advertise YOUR BUSINESS with us, call: 01923 237 004

email: [email protected]

TIS THE SEASON – FOR SHOPPING!Shop locally this holiday season and give more than just presents…

By Sal Jefford.

SWIMMING LESSONS

COLINDALESTARTS JANUARY 2015

APPLY BY NOV 30TH TO GET A FREE LESSON!

www.aquaswim.org02089311811


Local Clubs and Classes DirectoryLocal Clubs and Classes Directory

CLASSES FOR GROWN-UPSMary Kay Skincare Classes (UB) FREE classes offered. A tailored demonstration to meet your skincare needs and a trial of the products. There is no obligation to buy. Invite two or three other ladies and have fun. Based in Uxbridge but do travel. Please get in contact for more information. [email protected] www.marykay.co.uk/edrew 07939657075

The Veggie Kitchen (HA7) offers pure vegetarian cookery courses in Stanmore. Specialising in Indian cuisines, as well as Thai, Chinese and many more, students will learn to cook nutritious and delicious vegetarian meals in a friendly and homely environment. Offer group and one-to-one hands on courses. 0208 204 1906 www.veggiekitchen.co.ukEggless Cake Delights – Baking Classes (HA3) Classes are suitable for beginners as well as keen bakers - Demonstration and hands on classes - you will learn all the techniques to make homemade cakes, cupcakes, cookies etc. Classes are held in small groups iin Harrow, Kenton. www.egglesscakedelights.com

First AidMCS Training (HA1, HA5) Paediatric First Aid Course. Accepted for full and voluntary Ofsted Registration. Certificate valid for 3 yrs. Margaret 07814 191 395 [email protected]

LANGUAGE AND BABY DEVELOPMENTBaby Lab (WC1E) Have fun for free with your baby making discoveries about brain development at the Centre for Brain & Cognitive Development. Birkbeck College, Malet St, London. Travel expenses refunded. 020 7631 6258 www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk

Gujarati Masti Maja classes by Sansaar (HA5) Fun and interactive Gujarati music, song and dance classes for 3 to 6 year olds in North London, to help your child speak Gujarati confidently. Run on a Saturday morning at 9am and 10am at Nower Hill School, Pinner. www.sansaar.org

Baby Massage & YogaBaby Massage (HA) Learn to massage your baby. Baby Massage has huge benefits for both mum and baby including development of the brain and immune system and help with colic, sleep, bonding and attachment. This is a wonderful 5 week course accredited by the Royal College of Midwives. Niki 07956 388 748 [email protected]

Positiv-Life Fitness (various) Specialise in Small group Personal training Pregnancy Pilates, Mum & Baby Yoga & Postnatal Pilates & Baby Massage, for those in & near Eastcote Ruislip, Pinner, Northwood & Uxbridge. [email protected] 07974 062 973 www.positivlifefitness.com www.facebook.com/positivlifefitness > Twitter @PositivLifeFit

Sign Language Sing and Sign (Various) Fun classes combining the benefits of baby signing with music to develop language, memory and attention skills. Babies 6-30 months. Bushey, Rickmansworth, Stanmore and Harrow: Angelina Melwani 07956 948776, 020 8950 0888. www.singandsign.com

TinyTalk (Ruislip, Ickenham and Rickmansworth) Baby Signing Classes up to 20 months. Toddler Talking Classes 20 months to 4 years. Thursday: St Giles Hall, Ickenham: 10am Toddlers, 11.30am Babies. Friday: Methodist church, Ruislip: 10am Babies, 11.15am Toddlers, 1pm Babies. £5.50 per hour (paid 6 weeks upfront) Louisa Felton 07879 604 967 [email protected] www.tinytalk.co.uk/louisaf/index.php

ACTIVITY CENTRES Aspire National Training Centre, Kidz Zone activities (HA7) Wide range of activities available from 6mths to 12yrs. 020 8954 5759 [email protected]. Wood Lane, Stanmore, HA7 4AP

Gambado Watford (WD25) Giant play-frame, dodgems, climbing wall, and parties. 01923 892140 www.gambado.com

Partyman World of Play - Wembley (HA0) A magical place of multi-level play structures, air cannons, comfy seating for mums and dads to relax. Indoor playcentre and fabadousa party venue. 0208 904 9044 www.partymanworld.co.uk

The Windmill Studio Centre (HA4) An exciting venue which hosts many activities for ALL ages from babies to adults. 01895 624755 www.thewindmillstudio.com

MUSIC & MOVEMENT Active in Music (HA5) Active in Music is a music school for children aged 5+, combining individual and group learning to give a fully rounded approach to learning an instrument. Piano, violin and guitar are available to learn. Please see website for further details and call to arrange a time to see the classes and the school. 020 3504 1000 www.activeinmusic.com

Beat Building (HA1&HA2) Using drums & percussion from around the world beat Building is an inspiring & energising musical activity that teaches the core principles of music and rhythm. Drumming is fantastic for releasing energy positively and great for enhancing co-ordination, concentration and focus as well as building confidence and self esteem. 07721 623 171 [email protected]

Dinky Dancers (various) Classes are a fantastic & original mixture of dance, creative movement, P.E. skills & musical activities. Written by experts & based on the Early Years’ Foundation Stage, go and find out why OFSTED rate them as ‘OUTSTANDING’! Their classes help develop skills vital for education such as listening, following instructions, turn taking & concentration. 01923 239424 / 0208 207 2109

Jiggle Gym (various) Physical soft-play classes for under 3s in Borehamwood, Edgware/Mill Hill and Finchley/Hendon. Children are challenged by a different set of obstacle courses to climb, crawl, walk, and jump through. Classes also combine music and movement activities, sensory developmental activities, and parachute play! Jiggle Gym also specialises in parties and hire. 07817323010 [email protected] www.jigglegym.co.uk

Little Notes (HA1) Music Teachers’ Awards for Excellence Finalist 2014. Pre-school music classes run exclusively by professional musicians. Real music, real instruments, really fun! Classes for children from 0 to 5 years. Please see website for more details and to book a Free Taster Session. 020 8426 4114 www.littlenotes.org

Mini Maniacs (Various) Multi award nominated classes that are filled with music, dance and exploration – plus plenty of excitement. Focusing on a range of engaging activities, the classes take you up tempo then down tempo, leaving parent and child feeling like they’ve been on a tummy tickling roller coaster! Contact [email protected] or visit www.mini-maniacs.com

Monkey Music (Various) Award-winning Monkey Music introduces babies and young children to music in a way they understand and enjoy - and is brilliant fun for children and adults too! The unique four-stage curriculum ensures that classes are a “good fit” for pre-schoolers. Voted as “Best National Toddler Development Activity” and “Best National Pre-school Development Activity.” Age guides are as follows: Rock’n’Roll from 3m, Heigh Ho from 1yr, Jiggety Jig from 2rs, Ding Dong 3- 5yrs. Classes are open 6 days a week, at venues in Hillingdon, Eastcote and Harrow. 01895 674587 www.monkeymusic.com

The West London School of Tabla (HA2) Learn rhythm and improvisation with classical Indian Percussion. Syllabus aimed at 4-11 years with assessments and examinations. 020 8864 6364 www.wlstabla.co.uk

SPORTS AND EXERCISE Enjoy-a-Ball classes (Various) Sports coaching for 3-9 yr olds in a fun, positive and non-competitive environment. Ten ball sports for the perfect introduction to sport. Physi-ball classes - Ball skills and core skills for toddlers aged 18mths to 3 yrs. Classes run in Mill HIll, Finchley, Golders Green and Muswell Hill. Call 08452 26 26 94 to book a trial session. Enjoy-a-Ball parties are for super-active 3 - 9 year olds. They are full of high energy games loved by boys and girls alike! 08452 26 26 94 www.enjoy-a-ball.com [email protected]

Fit For Sport (Various) ‘The UK’s leading healthy lifestyle activities provider’ 3-12 yrs. 0845 456 3233 www.fitforsport.co.uk

Footiebugs Watford (WD) Developed by former Aston Villa Player, Lee Hendrie, offering fun & professional football classes for 3-9 year olds. Pre-school classes take children on adventures introducing them to football basics. For 5-9 years they focus on more advanced football skills whilst encouraging social independence. Classes are running in Watford. Book a FREE taster! 0845 899 7166 [email protected] www.footiebugs.com/watford.

Little Kickers (Various) Enabling children aged 18mths up to their 7th birthday to develop their coordination, balance and agility through football activity classes Mill Hill, Swiss Cottage, Hampstead, Golders Green, Muswell Hill, Friern Barnet 020 8201 1084 [email protected]. Ruislip, Northwood/Oxhey, Pinner, Harrow (HA2), Harrow on the Hill and Watford 0208 123 9346 [email protected] or Harrow (HA3) Bushey and North Wembley 0208 422 0676 [email protected] www.littlekickers.co.uk

Salle Paul Fencing Club (NW9) Fencing for boys and girls in age appropriate groups near Brent Cross Shopping Centre. For ages 5-7, 8-12, 13-17 (and 18+). Free parking, wifi and seating area. Termly courses for children on Tuesdays and Wednesdays after school. Spaces available to join mid-term. First session FREE - quote “Families” when booking. [email protected] www.sallepaul.co.uk

SportsKids Academy (WD3 & HA3) Multi-sports Activities for children. All students are taught in small groups with children of similar age and ability. Mini academy ages 4-6 years ( an hour and a half.) Main Academy 6-16 years (3 hours). All students are taught in small groups with children of similiar age and ability. (Previously known as SportsCoach.) Held at JFS The Mall Kenton and Rickmansworth Masonic School Rickmansworth 01923255099 [email protected] www.sportskidsacademy.co.uk

White Crane Karate School (HA8) Karate classes for children ages 5-12 held in Edgware, East Finchley, Finchley Central , Stanmore and Harrow Weald. Adult classes in Barnet. Sheena 0787 550 1674 [email protected] www.karatewhitecrane.co.uk

SwimmimgAqua Style (WD23/HA6) teaches children, babies and adults to swim without aids in small groups, or One to One. Good facilities and plenty of parking. They run Intensive ‘Fast Track’ Courses during School Holidays and weekly ‘Term Time’ courses. www.aquaswim.org 07925954144.

Aqua Vie (WD23, WD5) Small classes based on the Alexander Technique. Babies from 6 weeks. 07525 657 9878 [email protected] www.aqua-vie.com

Splashtime Swim School (various) Swimming lessons, Holiday clubs and After school club held at Quainton Hall School. Swimming lessons also held at Merchant Taylors School and Uxendon Manor Primary School. Splashtime Swim School 07903126486 Children’s Activities 07794078452

Swimkidz Watford Ltd (WD4, HA1, HA9) Structured, progressive and fun swimming lessons for babies, toddlers and children. 07545523196 [email protected] www.swimkidz.co.uk

THEATRE AND PERFORMING ARTSBeverley School of Performing Arts (HA8) After school & Saturday classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Street, Singing & Drama for boys and girls aged 3-18years. ISTD and LAMDA examinations to advanced level. 07974 750 224 www.beverleydance.co.uk.

JAM2000 Performing Arts & Agency (HA4) Classes available for everyone from 2.5 years – adults, male and female that include a creative explosion of styles in dance, drama and singing. 01895 624755 www.jam2000.co.uk

Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools (Various) run weekend dance, drama and singing classes for children aged 3 - 18 years. Children are divided into age appropriate groups and work towards shows and presentations. Jigsaw focuses on having fun and building confidence through engaging performing arts activities. Two week trial available. 020 8447 4530 www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk

Perform Drama (Various) Together with a team of experienced theatre professionals, the children will combine live original music, inspirational dance and quick witted improvisation and colourful costumes into a performance at the end of the term. Perform sessions are specially designed to encourage creativity, confidence and communication skills as well as being a kaleidoscope of fun! 0845 400 1275 www.perform.org.uk

Sharpe Academy of Theatre Arts (HA1, HA4, HA7, WD3) Performance based theatre school with venues based in Harrow, Rickmansworth, Ruislip and Stanmore where children aged 3-21 attend weekly classes in preparation for full scale Musical Theatre productions. 01923 437693 www.SharpeAcademy.co.uk

Stagecoach (Various) Training in three disciplines or drama, dance and singing. Great for building confidence, making new friends and beginning to hone talent and enthusiasm for performing, or being coaxed out of their shell by having fun! Harrow 020 3504 0100 Harrow on the Hill & Sudbury Hill 01923 248 294 Stanmore & Harrow Weald 020 3504 2154 Watford 01727 768 738 Queen’s Park 020 7723 5861 Northwood 01442 263 599 www.stagecoach.co.uk

Wordworks Studio (HA5) Individual and group classes in Speech, Drama and Communication Skills for children aged 3-18yrs. [email protected]


Local Clubs and Classes DirectoryLocal Clubs and Classes Directory

DanceChantraine Dance of Expression (NW6) Classes for all ages covering all aspects of dance - rhythm, technique, creativity, choreography - for the development of the whole person. Friendly, non-competitive environment. All abilities welcomed. 020 7435 4247 www.chantrainedance.co.uk

Dance My Way (HA9) Technical dance training for stage shows for children aged 5-11 yrs - Jazz, Latin, Street, Bollywood, Jive, Salsa and many more dance styles. Choreographies, Technique, Stretching & Expression in a fun and professional environment with end of term showcase. Course starts Sat 10th Jan at Chalkhill Community Centre. 0786 686 1287 [email protected] www.dancemyway.co.uk

Futunity UK Academy of Sport and Dance (UB8) Purpose built facility in Uxbridge. Offer classes for ages 2 through to adults. Ballet (RAD), Tap (ISTD), Contemporary, Hip Hop, Street Dance, Break Dancing, Street Cheer, Pole Fitness, Gymnastics, Free Running and Children’s Parties. Classes range from beginners to advanced/competitive levels. 01895 251224 www.futunityuk.com.

Karan’s Bollywood Masterclass (Various) Exciting, Energetic and popular dance classes that teach a fusion of Bollywood, Bhangra, Hip-Hop and Kathak. Open to Toddlers, Children & Adults, you will learn from professional teachers and all dance levels welcome. 020 8423 9543/07944 457 984 www.kspark.co.uk

Lorna Clark School of Dance (Various) Established for over 40 years, training students from 3-18 yrs - Ballet, Tap, Modern, Classical Greek and National. Royal Academy of Dance Examinations are taken in Ballet from Primary to Advanced Level and ISTD exams in all other Genre to the same standard. All classes held in South Harrow/Eastcote. Book a free No Obligation Lesson with this advert, by phoning 0208 8662105 or 01923 285380. www.lornaclarkschoolofdance.co.uk

The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance (HA7) Ballet classes to develop poise, technique and expression through dance, for boys and girls aged 3-16 years with Royal Academy of Dance examinations 020 8950 2457 www vanniekerkacademyofdance.co.uk

ARTS AND CRAFTS After-School Art Classes For Kids in Stanmore (HA7) Drawing, painting and mixed-media. Mon–Thurs and Sat for Reception through GCSE. One-to-one tuition for all ages, including portfolio-building for University applicants. Lisa 020 8954 2897 [email protected]

Art and Craft Club (HA5) Term time, Mon 4.30-5.30, Sat 10-11am or 11-12pm at Harrow Arts Centre. New activities introduced every term; drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, sewing, fabric printing and much more! For 5-11yr olds. Materials provided. Qualified teachers. 07946 055 422 [email protected]

Eggless Cake Delights – Baking Classes (HA3) Classes are suitable for beginners as well as keen bakers - Demonstration and hands on classes - you will learn all the techniques to make homemade cakes, cupcakes, cookies etc. Classes are held in small groups in Harrow, Kenton. www.egglesscakedelights.com

Fused Glass Workshops (HA8) Design and create your glass piece in their Studio in Edgware (platter, wall clock, coasters, mirror, picture frame...). Open to adults and teenagers. For dates and availability, 0773 3321094 [email protected] www.crescendo-art.co.uk

JAMtots (HA4) Creative arts session Includes homemade cooking, sticking, making, colouring, model making, painting and more. 01895 624755 thewindmillstudio.com

Makes ’n’ Bakes Fun, educational baking classes with arts & crafts for 2.5 to 5 year olds in Stanmore. Term time and holiday classes held in the comfort of Karen’s home. Maximum of 6 children per class. One to one 4+ and 5+ assessments and tuition also offered (Montessori trained). Please call Karen on 07887-984401 email at [email protected].

Mini Picassos (NW10) Offer exciting after school art courses for children aged 4-13 years. Toddler Picassos - weekdays at 10am & Tues 2.45-3.45pm: Painting, water play, collage, play dough and songs. Ages 15 mnths–3 years. Adults evening Life drawing classes. Get creative with a Mini Picassos Arty Birthday Party for children aged 2-10 years and Summer Holiday workshops too! 07903 638 817 www.minipicassos.co.uk [email protected]

The Veggie Kitchen (HA7) offers pure vegetarian cookery courses in Stanmore. Specialising in Indian cuisines, as well as Thai, Chinese and many more, students will learn to cook nutritious and delicious vegetarian meals in a friendly and homely environment. Offer group and one-to-one hands on courses. 0208 204 1906 www.veggiekitchen.co.uk

AFTER SCHOOL CLUBBrownies and Guides (Various) Rainbow, Brownie and Guide Units exist across the area which provide fun activities for girls aged from 5 onwards. www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested or Peggy Brand on 020 8205 7597 to find out more

Click IT! Computer lessons for Children (HA2) Fun, exciting and educational weekly computer lessons for children aged 2-5. Classes held at nursery schools all over North West London. Have fun learning with technology: mouse and keyboard skills and devices including graphic tablets, trackpads and digital microscopes. Every lesson is designed to complement the EYFS curriculum. Free trials available. 020 8434 7111. www.clickit-kids.co.uk. [email protected].

Elisa’s Tutorial School (HA8) Experienced private tutor in Edgware. Programmes for children from 2.5-16 yrs. If your child needs a little extra help, in English maths verbal and non-verbal 4+ 7+ and 11+ preparing for entrance exams or you just want to give them every advantage, Elisa can help. 99% success rate. 020 8958 1192 07956868119 www.childrensstories.net

Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Visit their website to find your nearest centre or call to book a free trial class! www.explorelearning.co.uk.

First Class Learning (Various) Structured yet flexible programme, designed for children studying the UK National Curriculum. Tailored to a child’s learning needs & style. Find out more about this structured approach to learning, by contacting one of your local Centre managers. www.firstclasslearning.co.uk

First Steps Tuition (Various) Preparation for 4+, 5+ & 7+ entrance to independent selective and state schools from age 3 years; Assisting with interview assessment process; Teaching by an experienced individual with a proven track record; Teaching Maths and English tailored to suit individual needs; Regular assessment and feedback; Well resourced; Small group size, and 1 to 1 tuition available. 07894 989438 [email protected]

Fleet Tutors (Various) Private home tutoring for Maths and English; 37 years’ experience. 020 8580 3911 www.fleet-tutors.co.uk

Genie Tutors (HA1) Find out why so many parents are making Genie Tutors Harrow their Number 1 choice of tuition centre for their child’s educational needs. Call now to book in your FREE assessment and consultation and to find out about their unique FULL money back satisfaction guarantee. 020 3468 1881

Holidaytime After school club is part of Activetime Children’s Activities limited (HA1) Pick’s up from four local school’s at the end of the school day, then take the children back to the club for a snack and the daily activity. They are open Monday- Friday 3pm-6pm Nicole 07794078452 [email protected] www.activetime.co.uk

Integratedbrain - Improve Co-ordination for learning! (UB5) Activities to help those with poor co-ordination, dyspraxia, dyslexia or fine motor difficulties. Small groups of 4/5 children working to develop better all-round motor integration. Usha Patel 07766 837 616 [email protected] www.integratedbrain.co.uk

Jaderberg Krais Educational Consultancy and Tutoring (various) Tutoring, Assessments, Consultancy for children 5-18yrs. 7+, 11+, GCSE, A Levels, SEN, EFL. 020 3488 0754 www.jaderbergkrais.co.uk

Knowledge Above Standard (HA7) Maths, English, Verbal and non-verbal reasoning, 7+, 11+ 13+ exam preparation. 07985 588 085 www.knowledgeabovestandard.co.uk

Kip McGrath Education Centre (Pinner) After school and Sat tuition for Reception to Year 11 by fully qualified teachers. Tuition in Maths, Reading, Spelling, Writing, SATS, 11+ and GCSE. FREE ASSESSMENT. Ofsted Registered. www.kipmcgrath.com

Leaders are Readers (HA8) Award winning reading programme helping children from as young as 3 years to read fluently, often to a standard three to four years above their peers reading age. 01992 651 300 www.leadersarereaders.co.uk

Magikats (HA1) offer innovative programmes, written to support the National Curriculum from ages 3 – 16, every Saturday at Gayton Library in Harrow. The friendly MagiKats environment, with individual programmes and individual support for individual children, promotes confidence, skills and a love of learning. 02084275663 www.magikats.com

Math’scool Award-winning Maths Tuition plus out-of-lesson homework support. 0844 840 8400 www.mathscool.com

The Northwood Speech and Language Therapy Practice (HA6) An independent service covering a range of children’s communication difficulties. 01923 824 074 www.northwoodpractice.co.uk

Number Works ‘n’ Words (Eastcote) After school Maths and English tuition classes which target identified needs to improve achievement levels. They set goals for your child, monitor progress and provide regular progress reports. Cater for all levels from Reception to Year 11. www.numberworksnwords.co.uk

The Play Shelter After School Club at Malorees Infant & Junior Schools (NW6) - 3.30pm to 6pm term time. Play Schemes available February 2015, Easter 2015, Summer 2015 and October 2015. 0207 407 6744 for more information. [email protected] www.theplayshelter.co.uk

Raviv Practice London (UB5) Catch up reading course for children on the SEN register. Reading courses are flexible with home based learning (via computer) monitored daily. Usha Patel on 07766 837 616 [email protected] (registered therapist)

Stanmore Tutor CRB checked. Preparation for 7+ and 11+ Grammar/Independent entrance exams. 020 3538 2437

Susan Daughtrey Education (SDE) SW Herts courses are based on more than 25 years experience preparing students for 11+ tests. All courses have been personally written by Susan Daughtrey M.Ed, author of the market leading verbal reasoning Technique and Practice series. Every year since 1987, over 90 per cent. of the students on the courses have achieved success. 020 7683 0734 www.sdeuk.org/swherts

The London Tutors (Various) Specialises in providing 11 Plus classroom based learning, to year 4 and 5 students. We prepare students to sit exams for Grammar and private schools. For a call back, please email your name and phone number to [email protected]

Tutition 4 Excellence (various) Maths & Science specialists. 11+ Maths, VR and interview preparation, SATS, Key Stage 2 to GCSE. Science Keystage 2 to GCSE. All their tutors have been educated at top independent schools! 07450 271 027 www.tuition4excellence.co.uk

Type IT! - Touch Typing Lessons for Children (HA5) Learn to touch type! Specifically designed courses for children from age 8-18. Highly recommended for children with dyslexia. Classes are held at their office in Harrow on the Hill, HA2 0JT. Free trials available. Adult classes also available. 020 8434 7111. www.typeitforkids.co.uk. [email protected].

U C MAS (HA2, HA3, WD18, UB4) A successful Abacus Mental Arithmetic training programme have been teaching hundreds of children in the UK since 2005, giving them a solid arithmetic foundation by applying the multiple intelligence of the human brain in learning mental arithmetic from the age of 4 with the help of the wonder tool Abacus which not only inculcates a love towards maths for children but also enhances the child’s ability to listen, focus and think in pictures in a play way method without any stress or repetition. Enrol now to give your child a lifetime skill and discover the genius within them. 0208 907 8009 www.ucmas.uk.com

Visit our hugely popular online Directory for a

comprehensive listing of your local Clubs

and Classes



What’s New Tried and tested!

Gambado is the UK’s ULTIMATE indoor play and party centres and they are offering one lucky child the chance to WIN a Tiger Party for ten at Gambado Watford!

Suitable for 1-12 year olds the Tiger Party assigns you your very own Party Host, 80 minutes Free Play including bumper cars, slides & play frame, 40 minutes Party Celebration including hot & cold party buffet, unlimited sugar-free juice & water, balloon modelling & party games, Gambado balloons, printable invitations, thank you cards and last but not least a FREE gift for the birthday child! *Worth £119.50 For those not lucky enough to win Gambado are offering 15% off a Tiger Birthday Party for ten and the birthday child will also receive a FREE family day pass to Gambado Watford (up to 5 people and must include 1 adult). To take advantage of this offer call their parties hotline on 08456 43 43 23 and quote ‘FamiliesNorthWest’.

Offer valid on parties booked before 31st December 2014. www.gambado.com/clubs/watford 01923 892140

Enter at www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

Hannah and Hugh Natural Skincare Range

Edgware based wholesome skincare product company Hannah and Hugh has launched a new line of non-toxic

skincare suitable for all the family; from new-borns upwards. The baby range consists of: Rosehip and calendula baby cream, Bum Bum nappy balm and Top to toe baby wash. www.hannahandhugh.com

fatframefatframe is a super protective kids’ case designed

to protect your iPad. Soft and spongy, hard-wearing but lightweight, chewable and easy to

wipe clean. Made from high quality EVA, durable and non toxic. The fatframe stand is compatible with the fatframe iPad case. Frame RRP £25.99,

Stand £14.99 P&P £1.99. www.fatframe.co.uk

Families Rating µµµµµ

WIN A family ticket (4 tickets) to Lionboy at the Tricycle Theatre

Charlie Ashanti lives in a future where phones are powered by the sun, cars are banned and companies are more powerful than countries. Charlie is a perfectly normal boy, except for one thing: he can speak to cats. So when his parents are kidnapped, he sets off on a rescue mission – with a little help from a floating circus and its pride of performing lions. Award-winning theatre company Complicite comes to the Tricycle Theatre in Kilburn with a revival of its show for families and young people. Inspired by Zizou Corder’s bestselling novels, Lionboy fuses storytelling, circus and live percussion in an adventure for everyone aged 8 and up. www.tricycle.co.uk

µ 1 Family ticket to win

COMPETITIONS


We aim to be as accurate as possible, but these listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please check details.

Harrow Arts CentreHatch End HA5 0208 416 8989 www.harrowarts.com

Sun 30 Nov – Hansel and Gretel Hunger - gnaws at the stomach like a dog on a bone. If only… if only there were a cake… a cake as big as a house! Sometimes, if you want something badly enough, it might just happen. . A delicious treat of a show; dark, chewy and delicious at heart, yet coated with a sprinkle of something light, sweet and zesty, succulent music and film, puppets and masks. Ages 5+

Fri 19 – Mon 22 Dec – Community Pantomime: Jack and the Beanstalk The evil Giant Blunderbore is threatening the village, and the princess! But Jack only has some silly old beans to help him. Will our hero save the day? Find out in our magical pantomime, brought to life by talented local people. Featuring live music and plenty of participation, this exciting adventure will entertain children and adults alike!

Lyric TheatreShaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 7ES0844 482 9674 www.nimaxtheatres.com

Wed 26 Nov – Sun 11 Jan – Room on the Broom Adapted by the award winning Tall Stories theatre company from the spellbinding picture book, ‘Room On The Broom’ will make the quintessential festive treat for the whole family to enjoy. This Olivier Award nominated production tells the story of a friendly witch, her cat and three loveable animals who take to the skies on a broom

and face a fearsome dragon in this magical, musical adventure. With enchanting puppetry, original sing-a-long songs and scary fun, ideal for families with children aged three and up. Ages 3+

Peacock TheatrePortugal Street, Holborn, WC2A 2HT 0844 412 4322 www.sadlerswells.com

Wed 26 Nov – Sun 4 Jan 2015 – The Snowman A perennial family favourite, The Snowman has transported a generation of children and their fami-lies into the wonderful wintery world of a boy and his magical snowman. As a unique friendship is kindled, the two embark on a starry-skied adventure to the North Pole, where they meet Father Christmas and narrowly escape the clutches of Jack Frost. Suitable for All Ages.

The Tricycle269 Kilburn High Road, NW6 020 7328 1000 www.tricycle.co.uk

Wed 17 Dec – Sat 10 Jan – Lionboy Charlie Ashanti lives in a future where phones are powered by the sun, cars are banned and companies are more powerful than countries. Charlie is a perfectly normal boy, except for one thing: he can speak to cats. So when his parents are kidnapped, he sets off on a rescue mission – with a little help from a floating circus and its pride of performing lions. Award-winning theatre company Complicite fuses storytelling, circus and live percussion in this

gripping adventure inspired by Zizou Corder’s bestselling novels. Ages 8+

WatersmeetHigh St, Rickmansworth WD301923 711 063 www.watersmeet.co.uk

Fri 5 – Wed 31 Dec – Aladdin Fasten your seat belts for a magical ride of mystery, sparkling romance and dazzling adventure with this year’s lavish production of Aladdin, where audiences can escape to a world of magic, where ad-venture beckons on this pantomime flight of spectacle, slapstick and song! Come and cheer on Aladdin, Wishee Washee and Widow Twankey as they do battle with the evil magician Abanazar. Will our handsome hero find true love with the delectable Princess Jasmine? Maybe with a little help from the Slave of the Ring and the Genie of the Lamp we’ll reach a happy ever after ending!

Watford Palace TheatreClarendon Road, Watford WD1701923 225 671 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk

Thu 5 – Sun 27 Dec – Sleeping Beauty Head along to the Palace for a proper family pantomime, with live musicians on stage, stunning sets and costumes, plenty of audience participation, and song, dance and slapstick performed straight from the heart by a talented company of first-rate actors. The perfect seasonal treat for everyone!

Watford ColosseumRickmansworth Road Watford WD170845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Sat 29 Nov – Wed 24 Dec – Santa Claus and the Christmas Adventure Do you believe in Santa Claus? If so, head along for a fun filled show at Watford Colosseum this Christmas. The adventure takes place at Santa’s HQ in the North Pole. The Reindeer Sat Nav is programmed, the toys are piled high on the sleigh and Santa is ready to go when suddenly… chaos strikes! Rudolph is missing and the Elves are up to no good. Will Santa ever deliver the presents to all the boys and girls?! Santa needs some help from all the good boys and girls in the audience to help him find his way. This new magical adventure filled with songs, nursery rhymes and stories promises to be the Christmas treat you won’t want to miss. A truly unforgettable experience which includes the magical moment when snowflakes fall over the audience – a guaranteed white Christmas at every show!

Vaudeville Theatre404 The Strand, London WC2R 0NH

8 December 2014 – 11 January 2015 - Potted Sherlock For a strictly limited Christmas holiday run, double Best Entertainment Olivier Award nominees Dan and Jeff star in the London premiere of their new show Potted Sherlock, hot on the heels of worldwide hit Potted Potter and festive funhouse Potted Panto.This show sees the duo return with their greatest challenge yet: the entire works of one of the greatest detectives in literary history, Sherlock Holmes. All sixty stories retold in eighty elementary minutes! Ages 6+

Even more listings online! www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk

What’s On in Children’s Theatre Compiled by Anna Blackshaw


NovemberWed 5 Nov – Sun 11 Jan - The Winter Festival (SE1) The Southbank Centre will be transformed as the Christmas Market lays out the most delicious festive food, handmade craft gifts and warming drinks. Cosy up at the Scandinavian Rekorderlig Cider Lodge, enjoy spectacular views at the Viewing Deck Bar or get warm at the Christmas Tree Cafe.www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whatson/festivals-series/the-winter-festival

Tues 11th - 20th November FREE Baby Sign Class (Various) Enjoy a free baby signing class at Sing and Sign in Harrow, Bushey Hatch End and Rickmansworth. For info email [email protected] or text 07956948776. Find them on facebook.com/singandsignbaby

Sat 15 Nov - Frozen Themed Musical Theatre Workshop (UB10) Hillingdon Musical Society invite you to go along for 2 hours of dancing, singing and performance workshops, inspired by your favourite songs from the Disney film ‘Frozen’. Led by West End performers, Mark and Rachael, who are now directing and choreographing for HMS. The event will be an introduction to their new weekly classes beginning in January. From 2-4pm at Hillingdon Park Baptist Church.01895 814424 www.hillingdonmusicalsociety.co.uk

Sat 15 Nov - Lots for Tots Tabletop Sale (WD3) Tabletop sale for mums or mums-to-be. Pick up some bargains - high chairs, walkers, trikes, bike seats, stair gates, clothes, toys, books and games.Lots for Tots Sales – a must for every mum! At St Mary’s Church in Rickmansworth from 10am-12pm.07745 295015 [email protected] www.lotsfortotssale.co.uk

Sat 15 Nov - Martinmas Fayre (HA4) This year’s Martinmas Fayre takes place at St Martin’s Church in Ruislip from 10.30am-2.30pm. Stalls include a tombola and raffle, plus lots more. www.stmartins-ruislip.org/

Sat 15 Nov - Pre Christmas Craft Sale and Tea Room (WD18) Head along to West Watford’s Community Centre. The WWCA ‘Crafty Sew & Sews’ will be there with their own stall with stock of fantastic hand-made gifts and goodies which will be spread out for you to browse at your leisure. In addition, there will be delicious home-made cakes, and tea and coffee for sale. From 10.30am-4.00pm.01923 235488 www.westnet.org.uk/

Sat 15 Nov - Princess Christmas Box Workshop (WD17) Decorate your very own Christmas tin and find out the story of Princess Mary’s special WWI gift at Watford Museum. Suitable for ages 7-12 years, free but booking is essential. From 1-2pm.01923 232297 www.watfordmuseum.org

Sat 15 – Sun 16 Nov - Cracking Codes (SE1) Can you decipher secret messages? Go and join in this family activity at HMS Belfast; intercept messages, map hazards on the sea chart and even make up your own secret code. From 11am–12.30pm & 2–4pm.www.iwm.org.uk/visits/hms-belfast

Sun 16 Nov - Celebrate Diwali (WD17) Watford Palace Theatre invites everyone to celebrate the Hindu festival of lights. Organised in collaboration with local community volunteers. Spectacular classical Indian dance and drama, featuring a large cast of performers, stunning costumes, multimedia projections and narration from Harish Bhimani.01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk/page/144/Celebrate-Diwali/901

Sun 16 Nov - Diwali On The Parade (WD17) Celebrate the festival of light showcased on Watford Parade for the first time.www.watford.gov.uk

Sun 16 Nov - Sunday Market at Wembley Park (HA9) Wembley Park is launching a vibrant new Sunday market which will showcase a range of high-quality goods from hand-made clothing and fresh produce to delicious street food. The Sunday market will have some of the best market stalls in the capital and it’s launch is a significant part of the rejuvenation of Wembley Park, which boasts a wealth of leisure and entertainment activities. From 10am-4pm.www.wembley.co.uk/

Thu 20 Nov - Christmas Lights Switch On (WD17) Head down to Intu Watford to see the Christmas Light Switch On. Tonight also sees the opening of Santa’s Grotto!www.intu.co.uk/watford

Fri 21 Nov - Toddler Takeover! (SE10) The Cutty Sark is celebrating Kids in Museums Takeover Day and the ship’s 145th birthday with a fun-filled event for toddlers, babies and their grown-ups. www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark

Sat 22 Nov - Christmas Market (WD3) At All Saints’ Church in Croxley Green from 11am-4pm. A mixture of craft and church stalls, live music playing in the church and hot food and drinks available. The climax of the day will be the Grand Prize Draw which will take place during the afternoon at 3.30pm. croxleygreenallsaints.org/

Sat 22 Nov - Duck Pond Food and Craft Market (HA5) Duck Pond Market at Bridge Street Gardens in Pinner combines the magic of a festival with interesting stalls in a beautiful setting. Everything you buy is made locally, ethically, and/or sustainably. Shop for arts & crafts, vintage, homeware, clothing and food whilst listening to some live music.www.pinnerlocal.co.uk/Directory/duckpondmarketpinner.aspx

Sat 22 Nov - Free Family Film (HA6) Watch a family film with your children for FREE at Northwood Methodist Church! Join in with other families from the area for a relaxed film afternoon. Refreshments available during the intermission. Begins at 3pm.www.northwoodmethodistchurch.org/free-family-film-saturday-22nd-november/

Sat 22 Nov - Samba Workshops (HA6) Northwood Community Arts is delighted to offer a day of action packed Samba dance and drumming workshops. The London School of Samba are welcomed back in the hope of creating Northwood’s very own Samba group. There will be 2 workshops for drumming at 10-11:30am & 1:30pm-3pm and dancing at 11:45am-1:15pm & 3:15pm-4:45pm. At St John’s The United Reformed Church in Northwood.01628 675800 [email protected] www.northwoodcommunityarts.co.uk

Fri 28 Nov - Christmas Gift Market (WD3) The Chorleywood and Rickmansworth Support group will be holding a Christmas Gift Market and Coffee Morning at The Junction in Chorleywood. Go and meet the team, find out about future events and do your Christmas shopping! Entrance donation £5 includes coffee & cake.peacehospice.co.uk/viewevent.asp?eventID=601

Fri 28 Nov - Rickmansworth Starlight Evening (WD3) Go and join in the family fun with the Starlight Parade, the Rising Star Stage, festive stalls, Punch and Judy, the Little Fox Market, and all the fun of the fair with Brixton Amusements! From 5-9pm on Rickmansworth High Street.www.rickmansworthtown.co.uk/christmasevening.html

Sun 29 Nov - Christmas Fayre (WD19) Head along to All Saints’ Church in South Oxhey for their annual Christmas Fayre. All money raised going to their Missions. From 10.30am-12.30pm.allsaintsoxhey.wordpress.com/services-and-events/events/

Sun 29 Nov - Festive Market (WD17) Go and join the Peace Hospice Care team at their Festive Market! To be held at Peace Drive, Watford with stalls selling gifts and treats, plus childrens’ activities and a special guest. From 12-4pm.www.peacehospicecare.co.uk/viewevent.asp?eventID=580

Sat 29 – Sun 30 Nov - Paddington’s Picnic Weekend (EC2Y) A jam-packed family festival with crafts, storytelling, and a very special guest. From 12-4pm.www.museumoflondon.org

Sat 29 – Sun 30 Nov - Winter Wonderland (HA3) Go along and join in the fun at Harrow Masonic Centre. Lots of exciting activities from a special ice rink, a funfair, Santa’s grotto, food stalls and other seasonal stalls. Sat from 11am to 10pm and Sun from 11am to 4pm.www.mgff.co.uk

DecemberWed 3 Dec - Disability Arts Festival 2014 (HA5) Including drama, dance, music and comedy, the Disability Arts Festival at Harrow Arts Centre celebrates the work of disabled artists and integrated performing arts groups from Harrow and beyond.www.harrowarts.com/whats-on/music/475?event=disability-arts-festival-2014&stcal=2014-12-03

Wed 3 Dec - Watford Primary Schools’ Carol Concert (WD17) For over 50 years, more than 400 children from primary schools in SW Hertfordshire have come together to sing carols at the Colosseum. Parents, teachers and friends have all shared in this happy occasion and welcome anyone who would like to join the celebration.0845 474100 watfordcolosseum.co.uk

Compiled by Anna Blackshaw

listings for all the family

To promote your local event, coffee morning, nearly new sale, parenting courses or community group in the next What’s On listing (Jan/Feb 2015) send your entry by 5pm 25 November 2014

Email [email protected]. Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check details of the events before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.

www.FamiliesNWLondon.co.uk/RegularEvents for all our local weekly regular events. It’s updated every day!

What’s On


What’s On

Sat 6 Dec - Harrow Christmas Nearly New Sale (HA3) Quality baby and young children’s clothes, toys and equipment at bargain prices. Get some Christmas shopping done and support charity at the same time. At Kenton Evangelical Church from 11am-12.30pm.www.nct.org.uk/branches/harrow/events/harrow-christmas-nearly-new-sale

Sat 6 Dec - Nascot Wood Schools Association Christmas Fayre (WD17) A warm welcome awaits you from the Nascot Wood Schools Association at their Christmas Fayre. From 12 – 4pm.www.nascotwoodjm.herts.sch.uk/

Sat 6 Dec - Northwood Christmas Craft Market (HA6) At Northwood Methodist Church Hall, there’ll be hands-on crafts for children to make & take home and a Christmas Treasure Hunt with prizes from Father Christmas. Teas, coffees & delicious homemade cakes are available during the morning at the church coffee shop.www.northwoodcraftmarket.co.uk

Sat 6 Dec - Patterns of Love (HA6) Northwood Community Arts plays host to the fabulous Voice: the engaging female trio who will be performing Patterns of Love - an exciting and unusual a cappella music performance. A community vocal workshop lead by the members of Voice will precede the concert at 3pm – 4.30pm. Open to all ages and levels of ability the only criteria being a desire to learn how to make harmonious sounds with a group of other local, like-minded people! At St John’s The United Reformed Church, Northwood.www.northwoodcommunityarts.co.uk/

Sun 7 Dec - Christmas Concert (NW9) Two local community groups wperform a Christmas concert at the Royal Airforce Museum. Check their website for further details!www.rafmuseum.org.uk

Fri 12 Dec - Festive Fun (WD18) Join in for an evening of fun for all the family as Watford Palace Theatre’s Community Choir performs a range of seasonal classics to help you get into the festive spirit. Christmas themed art activities for children and drinks and snacks available to purchase. Limited places available. At Holywell Community Centre from 7-9.30pm.01923 216950, [email protected] www.w3rt.org/holywell/specialevents

Mon 15 – Fri 19 Dec & Sun 28 Dec – Sun 4 Jan - Lemony Snicket’s Latke Who Couldn’t Stop Screaming (NW3) This absurdly funny Christmas show about a distressed potato pancake is an adaptation of an original story from the rich and strange world of American children’s author Lemony Snicket. A show about being yourself and appreciating others, features a variety of instruments including the ukulele, clarinet, melodica, banjo and guitar with vegetable battles, sparkling lights and pine trees. At The Jewish Community Centre.www.jw3.org.uk

15-24, 29-31 Dec & 2 Jan - A Date To Remember (EC2R) Get a head start for 2015 at The Bank of England Museum by adding your own designs of museum exhibits to a calendar to take home. Banknotes, gold, coins and weapons were once used to defend the Bank. With so many fascinating displays to choose from you’ll be spoilt for choice. The calendar will include museum events for the forthcoming year. www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum

Mon 29 Dec – Fri 2 Jan - Dashing Through The Snow (WC2E) London Transport Museum is running Christmas-themed sessions during the holidays. Join in with family friendly parachute games and follow a snowflake on its journey from the sky to the streets of London. For ages 3-7, children are free. Older children will enjoy getting hands-on with junk modelling to create a mini snow mobile to take home. For ages 4-12, children free. There is also a ‘Goodbye Piccadilly’ exhibition running until 8th March. Discover the untold story of London’s Home Front during the First World War; how drivers took their buses to the Front to support the war effort, how women advanced into the transport workforce for the first time and how Londoners came under deadly attack from the air as total war came to the Capital.www.ltmuseum.co.uk

Mon 29 – Tue 30 Dec - Woolly Jumpers (SE10) Create a bouncy, fluffy sheep made with wool just like the cargo Cutty Sark used to carry all the way from Australia. At Cutty Sark at 11.30am and 2pm. www.rmg.co.uk/visit/events

Tue 13 Jan - Tue 10 Mar - Living with a Teenager (HA1) It can be exciting and satisfying helping young people grow up into capable independent young adults! During the sessions you will share experiences and look at; Understanding and acknowledging the needs of pre teens and teenagers; Practicing ways of negotiating and setting limits; Finding different ways to communicate effectively; Exploring peer pressure. A weekly course at Hope Harrow from 7-9pm. 0208 863 7319 [email protected] www.hopeharrow.org.uk

Sat 13 – Wed 17 Dec – Mother Nature Christmas Science Camps (NW8/HA6/TW10)

Go and do some Christmas shopping while your children go on a festive scientific journey of discovery, from Friction Santa’s Grotto through to the Freezing Dry Ice North Pole. Along the way, they’ll investigate snowflake chromatography, discover how Santa can move down chimneys and make gifts of precious Santa Slime! Every child will create festive cheer with funky flutes fun, turn the Christmas lights on, create a colourful indoor firework show and special states of matter candle. For the grand finale they will decorate the Christmas tree with animal puppets and a balancing angel. Camps run at St Helen’s School, Northwood and King’s House School, Richmond on 13th & 14th Dec, and at St Christina’s School, London on Mon 15th, Tue 16th & Wed 17th Dec.http://mnature.co.uk/


What’s On Ice Rinks and Where’s Santa?

Ice RinksDates TBC – Hillingdon Ice Rink (UB8) Still to be confirmed at time of going to print, Hillingdon usually transform the front of the Civic Centre into an ice rink, giving everyone the chance to try their hand at skating in the fresh air. Keep an eye on their website for further details and dates.www.hillingdon.gov.uk

Thu 30 Oct – Sun 4 Jan – Natural History Museum Ice Rink (SW7) The Natural History Museum Ice Rink is one of London’s most spectacular winter attractions, with a huge main rink and smaller family space for beginners and children. Skate around the Christmas tree, then sip a hot chocolate while enjoying the festive scene from the Café Bar. The Museum’s annual Ice Rink is a fun day or evening out for the whole family.http://www.nhm.ac.uk/visit-us/whats-on/ice-rink/visit/

Fri 14 Nov – Sun 4 Jan – Ice Skating at Wembley Park (HA9) Enjoy spectacular Ice skating in the shadow of the iconic Wembley Stadium arch, adjacent to the London Designer Outlet Centre. The outdoor sparkling Ice Rink, is open to everyone, from beginners to experts, go and try a traditional winter experience at Wembley Park this year. Go and skate, shop, eat, or watch a movie all at London Designer Outlet Centre or stroll through the traditional German Christmas market.http://iceskatingatwembleypark.co.uk/attractions/our-ice-rink/

Sat 15 Nov – Sun 4 Jan – Eyeskate at The London Eye (SE1) Enjoy an Eyeskate, a spin on the London Eye’s very own ice rink in the heart of the South Bank. The Eyeskate ticket includes a 45-minute Eyeskate session with ice skate hire included.http://www.londoneye.com/

Sat 22 Nov – Sun 4 Jan - The BIG Skate (WD17) Head along for a skate by the pond as seasonal skating comes to Watford for the first time. Get that warm and fuzzy festive feeling under the Christmas decorations on the outdoor rink. From 11am to 9pm daily - slots last 45 minutes.http://www.watfordbigevents.co.uk/eventdetails?id=39

Wed 26 Nov – Wed 24 Dec – Willow’s Farm Village Festive Farm Fun (AL4) As part of their Santa Spectacular Grotto and Festive Farm Fun, Willow’s Farm will have a Magical Ice Rink (with synthetic ice). Great fun for the whole family!http://www.willowsactivityfarm.com/explore/holiday-events/

Sun 7 Dec – Sun 11 Jan JW3 on Ice: North West London’s Outdoor Ice Rink (NW3) The JW3 piazza will be transformed into a winter wonderland with an outdoor ice rink to accommodate up to 70 skaters - serving mulled wine, hot chocolate and seasonal food from the chefs at Zest. http://www.jw3.org.uk/

Sat 20 Dec JW3 - Chanukah on Ice (NW3) Visitors are invited to celebrate the Jewish Festival of Lights, with traditional candle-lighting, cocktails and music from Rebbetzins’ Disco and DJ Kobayashi, who will play every-thing from northern soul to Gypsy Balkan Swing. Advance booking.www.jw3.org.uk.

Where’s SantaHarrow Masonic Centre (HA3) Head along to Winter Wonderland and join in the fun. Lots of exciting activities from a special ice rink, a funfair, Santa’s grotto, food stalls and other seasonal stalls. On Saturday 29th November from 11am-10pm and Sunday 30th November from 11am-4pm.www.mgff.co.uk

The WatersEdge Restaurant (UB8) Take the kids along for festive fun and a visit with Santa - £5 per child with free cookies & milk and a gift from the man himself. All proceeds will be split between 2 amazing deserving causes, Dream Flight and Shooting Star Chase. www.the-watersedge.co.uk

Cassiobury Park (WD18) Celebrate Christmas at Cassiobury Park on Sunday 7th December, with lots of fun for all the family! Santa arrives on a Husky dog sledge. Join him in Santa’s Grotto and make Christmas decorations for the kids. At Cassiobury Park, near the Bowls Club.01923 278972 [email protected]

Intu Watford (WD17) This year Santa’s grotto is open from Thursday 20th November until Christmas Eve in a brand new location. Find Santa through his Reindeer maze, visit Santa’s Reindeer Light Sleigh on the lower mall outside M&S, jump in and take your photo inside! Christmas Lights Switch on from 4-9pm on Thursday 20th November - family entertainment and the official light switch on of the brand new decoration light scheme for 2014.www.intu.co.uk/watford

Nascot Wood School Christmas Fayre (WD17) A warm welcome awaits you from the Nascot Wood Schools Association at their Christmas Fayre. www.nascotwoodjm.herts.sch.uk

Watford Rural Parish Council (WD19) Christmas Fun Day on Saturday 6th December from 11am-3pm at St Andrew’s Precinct in South Oxhey. www.watfordrural-pc.org.uk

Further AfieldHatfield House (AL9) Head along to the Frost Fair from Friday 21st – Sunday 23rd November - an exciting and vibrant Christmas Fair offering an early taste of festive feel for all the family. There will be up to 200 stands of exciting, unusual and original gift ideas for all, fine food and drinks, entertainment from Choirs, dancers and street entertainers, and Father Christmas will be there for all three days. www.hatfield-house.co.uk

Hyde Park (W2) See your little ones’ faces light up as they meet Santa himself in his famous

grotto at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland. Explore the land of Santa, see his workshop, meet the elves or ride on the Santa Express. A magical experience with children’s rides, games, eateries and Santa himself! www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

Knebworth House (SG3) Christmas Fair with craft & gift stalls, festive food & drink, meet the reindeer & barn owls and visit Father Christmas in his Grotto. From Friday 14th to Sunday 16th November.www.knebworthhouse.com

Lauderdale House (N6) Your chance to visit ‘one of London’s top five Santas’ who’s flown in specially for the weekend, from 13th - 14th December, to meet and treat the children of Lauderdale House! Go and meet him, find out about the reindeer … and, of course, leave with a present! Advance booking advisable.www.lauderdalehouse.co.uk

Legoland (SL4) This Christmas holiday from 22nd November to 24th December, a very special guest will be spreading his Christmas magic in the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead. Jump aboard the magical Bricksmas Express and discover a charming Christmas land where fairy lights twinkle, festive food delights and LEGO®bricks are a-plenty. Follow the sound of sleigh bells to Santa’s Grotto in the heart of the park, where kids can receive their very own LEGO® gift* from the jolly gentleman himself!www.legoland.co.uk

Museum of London and Museum of London Docklands (EC2Y) Meet Santa in a secret Grotto in an atmospheric Victorian street from 6th-23rd December. Tell him your Christmas wishes and receive a special gift!www.museumoflondon.org

Santa to your Door (Various) A visit from Santa on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, or any other time. He will deliver your presents and chat to your children about their favourite things.

He may even sing a few festive songs before he says goodbye having nibbled a mince pie, or two. Call the Santa hotline on 0208 959 1045 or email [email protected]

The Enchanted Christmas House (N1) This Christmas from 29th November to 24th December, join Mrs Claus on a truly memorable adventure. The Elves will take you and your children on an exciting tour around the House to meet Santa’s magical friends... Take part in an array of different Christmas activities that will keep the family busy for hours.www.enchantedhouse.net

Willows Farm (AL4) Visit Santa in his Grotto from Wednesday 26th November to Wednesday 24th December and receive a golden key to enter his toy shop where children can pick their own present. Join in with the Nativity story, hop on the Festive Wood Ride, enter the Elves House, see the reindeer plus Fun Fair Rides, undercover JCB Young Drivers Zone, Woolly Jumpers indoor play barn and Reindeer Hunt with prize for every child.www.willowsactivityfarm.com

Willows Farm Village


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