RUSKIN HOUSE SCHOOL - Families Online

www.familiesse.co.uk south east london 

RUSKIN HOUSE SCHOOL 

Private Day Nursery 

Open for your convenience 7am - 7pm 

Monday to Friday – 51 weeks of the year 

Celebrating our Silver Jubilee Established 1985 

All childcare vouchers and tax credits accepted 

Nursery Education Funding for all 3 & 4 year olds 

Nutritional well-balanced meals provided inhouse 

We pride ourselves on our family orientated atmosphere 

Offering children up to 5 years a safe, stimulating learning 

environment which will introduce them to a whole new world 

Easy commute to major London British Rail stations. 

Herne Hill station within walking distance. 

Buses 68 & 468 stop outside 

With qualified and experienced staff our school is 

like a Pandora’s Box, a source of new and wonderful 

experiences, at the same time preparing the 

attending children for a fulfilling, adventurous and 

successful life ahead. 

Any questions regarding the nursery or if you would 

like to book a viewing 

Please call 020 7737 4317 

48 Herne Hill, London SE24 9QP 

Email: ruskinhouseschool@hotmail.co.uk 

Under New 

Management 

www.ruskinhouseschool.co.uk 

® 

NOVEMBER 2010 

ISSUE NO. 125 

We help with family 

problems, including: 

Divorce 

Separation 

Civil partnership dissolution 

Disputes about children 

Inheritance disputes 

ESTABLISHED 1996 

FREE 

Call Greg Randall on 

020 8670 6141 

Our experience includes dealing 

with substantial assets 

We aim to resolve disputes 

in a constructive and 

non-confrontational way 

We can also help with 

pre-nuptial and cohabitation 

agreements 

www.bennettwelch.com 

Bank Chambers, Westow Hill, 

Upper Norwood, London SE19 1TY

2 

DARKER NIGHTS and expensive times ahead - there are gloomy faces out 

there. At Families we’ll help you find your reasons to be cheerful. How about 

a fantastic family trip to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, £250 in Hamleys 

vouchers, a video camera or your family meals sorted for you? They’re all 

up for grabs in this issue’s competitions. Or shake off the cobwebs and 

take part in workshops and interactive exhibitions, many of which are free or 

low cost and listed in our What’s On Guide. Need ideas for this year’s 

Christmas presents? We’ve got those too. It’s enough to bring a smile back 

to those cheeks... 

Robina Cowan, editor 

2-3 Local News and Views 

Supporting local shops, new clubs for children, a music 

business for sale, and “Trafalgar Square - that’s in 

EastEnders, innit?” 

4-5 Local Christmas Shopping 

Great gifts and personal service - our pick of seasonal 

goodies from southeast London’s best independent shops 

6-7 The Great Gift Guide 

Expert advice on what will please your little ones come 

Christmas day, plus the chance to win £250 in Hamleys’ 

vouchers 

8 Spotlight on Stagecoach 

A look behind the scenes of a local performing arts 

school 

9-14 What’s On 

Workshops, festive fairs, events and exhibitions now on 

and coming up to brighten your autumn days 

15 The Book Page 

Tales from Justine Crow’s bookshelf, with this month’s 

recommended titles 

16-17 Education News 

The success of Thames Christian College, and news 

for classrooms 

18-19 What’s New 

WIN, WIN WIN! We have some brilliant prizes to be 

won, plus useful new products, services and free help 

for parents 

20 The Back Page 

Local business contacts to make your life easier 

Front cover: Girl wears double breasted 

merino/ cashmere blend coat/ dress, bow 

beanie and scarf, all 

www.suehillhandknits.co.uk, 01825 830 551 

Next issue out 10 December: 

copy deadline mid November 

Families South East 

PO Box 11591, London SE26 6WB 

020 8699 7240 www.familiesse.co.uk 

editor@familiesse.co.uk 

© Families South East. We take every care preparing this magazine, but the 

publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers 

nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence. Families South East 

is part of the Families group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South 

West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and 

operated under licence. 

families south east - november 2010 

LocalNews 

email your local news to editor@familiesse.co.uk 

Shop locally for less with a wedge 

More and more independent shops across London are 

signing up to the Wedge Card scheme, 

offering discounts to people who shop 

locally and keeping trade on the high street 

- where it belongs. 

Wedge Card is the brainchild of Diana 

Bird and her father John Bird, founder and 

Editor-in-Chief of The Big Issue. It was 

launched in December 2006 and their idea is 

all about keeping local, independent shops 

alive and thriving because they make our communities buzz. 

Shoppers can sign up for a card for £10 for a whole year, of which £1 goes 

to a local charity and the other £9 helps Wedge administer the set-up of the 

card and strengthen the community further. Most Wedge members find that 

they recoup the initial cost in just a few weeks. 

Love Me Again in Hither Green has recently signed up to Wedge, joining over 

1400 independent cafes and shops already in the scheme. To find them or sign 

up, go to www.wedgecard.co.uk. 

The bug club 

A fun new club has been set up where 

families can join a monthly bug hunt, 

make insect and animal habitats, and 

take part in themed arts and crafts 

activities. 

Sessions run on the first Saturday 

of the month at Frendsbury Gardens in 

SE4. The cost is £1 per child and 50p 

for siblings - under 12s must be 

supervised by a responsible adult. Take your wellies if it’s raining as the club will 

still be going ahead! £1 per child, 50p for siblings. For more information, email 

emafelix@hotmail.com. 

Mayor’s scheme to make 5000 

young musicians 

Youngsters across the capital have a unique chance to learn a musical 

instrument with the help of professional musicians from world-class orchestras, 

as part of a major scheme launched by London Mayor Boris Johnson. 

The Mayor’s Music Education Fund is funding partnerships between local 

authority music services and top orchestras and institutions across the city, 

including the London Philharmonic and the BBC Concert Orchestras. 

Six new partnerships have been created, involving 13 local authority music 

services, six orchestras and a music college. Over the next two years, these 

partnerships will give over 5,000 young people the chance to develop their skills 

on a musical instrument, play in a group with other students, and work and 

perform with some of the UK’s finest professional musicians in one of London’s 

many inspirational venues. 

Timothy Walker AM, chief executive and artistic director of the London 

Philharmonic Orchestra said: ‘Through our outreach project ‘The Band’, the 

London Philharmonic Orchestra works with teenagers from our local community 

in south London and any young person who is passionate about making and 

performing music is welcome to join. The LPO believes that all young people 

should have access to music-making opportunities and we strive to engage with 

the widest possible audience. Thanks to the Mayor’s Music Education Fund, the 

LPO has been able to forge a new partnership with Trinity Laban Conservatoire 

of Music and Dance, Greenwich 

and Lewisham Music Services, 

Southbank Centre and The 02 

to create ‘Animate Orchestra’ 

- a new ensemble and a new 

musical pathway for talented 

young people in the London 

boroughs of Greenwich and 

Lewisham. We hope to support 

children who have participated in 

wider opportunities, Saturday 

centres and other instrumental 

learning schemes and nurture 

them as young musicians 

through transition into secondary 

education.’ More information is 

on www.london.gov.uk. 

www.familiesse.co.uk

Dancers bring ‘glee’ to 

greenwich 

Two professional dancers are set to bring dance 

and musical theatre to children in Greenwich. 

Zenith Dance is run by Mel and Anna, who have 

worked with Ricky Martin, Robbie Williams, the 

Osmonds, National Youth Ballet and more. 

Children can learn to emulate their favourite Glee 

dance stars, working towards regular performances 

for friends and family. Classes are split into 7-10 

and 11-16 year-olds, and are held on Saturdays. 

Adult dance classes are also available. For more information, 

call Melanie on 07774 507 810, Anna on 

07999 547 565, or see www.zenithdance.co.uk. 

Successful music 

business for sale 

Local mother Jill Powell has been running 

Caterpillar Music classes in SE16 and SE1 since 

summer 2004, opening her first class just six weeks 

after taking the decision to buy the franchise and 

expanding ever since. 

With her 

sons now in 

secondary 

school, Jill is 

returning to a 

career in 

science, as a 

medical writer, 

and is offering 

her successful 

Caterpillar 

Music franchise 

for sale. She 

told us: “In just 

four months I 

found myself 

taking seven 

classes per 

week. The 

classes are all 

during school 

hours, classes can be run in the school holidays 

or not, as I choose. This gave me the time and 

opportunity to be with my boys after school and in 

the holidays. I chose to run the classes alone, but 

the business is very easy to run in partnership with 

friends, other mums or family members - your own 

young children can even accompany you to the 

classes and have fun with you while you work.” 

If this sounds like a great venture for you, call 

Jill on 020 7252 1178 for a chat about taking 

over her thriving franchise, or send an email to 

jill.powell@caterpillarmusic.com. For new 

franchises in other areas, call Caterpillar 

Music’s head office 0870 199 9090 or go to 

www.caterpillarmusic.com. 

BUILD CONFIDENCE • BOOST CONCENTRATION • MAKE NEW FRIENDS • HAVE FUN 

FREE Drama Class 

Watch your child’s self-esteem soar with Perform’s unique drama, dance and singing 

classes. Our weekly workshops will work wonders for their confidence, concentration 

and social skills as well as giving them the best fun they’ll have all week. 

Book your child’s FREE class today. Call 0845 400 1277 or visit perform.org.uk 

perform.org.uk 

www.familiesse.co.uk 

Naut out of ten 

British children reckon the 

Spanish Armada is a national 

dish, Walter Raleigh invented the 

bicycle and James Cook was the 

captain of Starship Enterprise, 

according to research released 

by the Sea Cadets. The research 

was carried out to mark the 

anniversary of Trafalgar Day and 

the Sea Cadets National Trafalgar 

Day parade on Sunday 24 

October, celebrating 205 years 

since Admiral Lord Nelson’s 

British fleet defeated the 

combined might of the French 

and Spanish. 

The worrying stats emerged from a study of 2,000 school children which found most of them are clueless 

when it comes to nautical history: 

one in 20 kids believe the Spanish Armada is a tapas-style cuisine rather than the fleet of ships that 

sailed against the English 

one in six thought Raleigh was the brains behind the Chopper, not the adventurer responsible for 

bringing tobacco and potato back to our home shores 

14% believe Cook uttered ‘Beam me up Scotty’ in Star Trek rather than command the Endeavour in 

his first voyage of discovery to Australia and New Zealand 

six in ten youngsters didn’t know the Battle of Waterloo was fought in Belgium, with one in six opting 

for London’s train station as their answer instead 

three quarters didn’t realise Trafalgar Square is home to Nelson’s Column, with eight per cent 

reckoning it’s from EastEnders, while 15% thought it was a shopping centre or chocolate biscuit 

one in ten said Horatio Nelson was the captain of the French national football team in the 1990s 

and the same number said Christopher Columbus discovered gravity 

9% thought Francis Drake wrote The Wind in the Willows 

only three quarters could identify the English Channel as the body of water between England and 

France, with one in ten naming the North Sea and six per cent saying the Atlantic. 

Captain Mark Windsor RN, Captain of the Sea Cadets, said: ‘’These findings highlight that for a lot of young 

people being part of a maritime nation is something they do not connect with or have much understanding 

of. As an island nation our relationship with the sea is a critical one since much of our food and trade passes 

over the oceans and our place in the world largely stems from our maritime heritage.” 

While 5% of the children have never stepped foot in the sea, 46% said they would like to learn to sail and 

seven in ten said water activities would be a good and fun thing to do with friends. 

Sea Cadets are open to 10-12 and 13-18 year-olds, offering wet and dry fun and adventure with the 

chance to learn new skills and make new friends. Locally, there are cadet groups in Greenwich, Beckenham 

and Dulwich, Bexley and Lewisham, Bromley, Southwark and Orpington. For details, call 020 7481 7371 

or go to http://seacadets.ms-sc.org/. In the meantime, a trip to Greenwich Maritime Museum would be a 

good start! 

Money’s too tight to mention 

A recent survey revealed that money worries are affecting parents’ relationships with their partners and 

children, particularly in households with an income of £28,000 or less. 

According to psychologist Dr Linda Papadopoulos: “One of the most important things to do to help the 

family cope with financial concerns is to talk about it as a family, and work together to get through it. By 

involving the whole family, obviously in a way that is age appropriate for each child, this will give a sense 

of control and empowerment over the situation. It will also engender a more positive attitude in that you are 

working as a team towards a common goal.” 

Turn2Us is a charity which offers free, confidential and accessible services, enabling people in financial 

need to access welfare benefits and charitable grants information quickly and easily - all in one place. 

The charity comprehensive website contains a number of easy to use tools, such as a benefits checker, 

grants search and helps users find an advisor. 

To cut through any confusion on the impact of the spending review on your family finances, go to 

www.turn2us.org.uk. 

0845 400 1277 

Book now for our fantastic 

Aladdin 

three day winter holiday courses! 

november 2010 - families south east 

3

4 

The Couture 

Cookie Shop 

Big cakes, cup cakes, 

cookies, children’s catering 

and personalised party bags 

Call Selena to discuss your order 

Tel : 07943 329 924 

www.thecouturecookieshop.co.uk 

Alhambra 

Home & Garden 

148 Kirkdale, London SE26 4BB 

Spanish 

homeware, 

unique gifts for 

adults and kids 

and a secret 

garden tearoom 

serving tapas 

and cake 

Crafts workshops 

and children’s 

parties, too! 

020 3417 6385 

www.alhambrahome.co.uk 


Christmas Shopping 

Local Spotlight 

s 

HERE AT Families we firmly believe in supporting our local independent 

shops. Which other shops can offer both the festive season’s hot picks 

at the same time as quirky little one-offs made locally or sourced 

through fair-trade channels? Where else can you get the attention and 

the advice? 

Get to know your local shopkeepers and they’ll set aside big 

brother’s must-have for you as soon as it comes in. Take little sister 

along and see what catches her eye. Great service, minimal travel 

costs, no delivery charges, and you might even have time for coffee 

with a friend if you plan it well enough. 

Alhambra home and garden 

Original gifts galore, packed into a bustling, busy shop. Owner Rebecca 

has filled her shelves to bursting with wonderful lavender doorstops, Snapdragon 

handbag mirrors and phone cosies, unique mosaic mirrors, fabulous 

Spanish rugs, throws and ceramics, funky Mexican cushions, tasty 

paella kits and organic Spanish ingredients, handmade hats and bags, designer 

jewellery from local ladies Bizou, quirky knitted toys, splendid soaps 

and cracking Christmas gift-baskets. 

The shop hosts regular craft workshops for adults and is holding a shopping 

soiree on 3 December - see our What’s On pages or call in to the shop 

at 148 Kirkdale, Sydenham SE25 4BB, 020 3417 6385, www.alhambrahome.co.uk. 

Ottie and the bea 

Everyone’s talking about the exciting new children’s shop at Blackheath Royal 

Standard. With a modern take on traditional toys and games, Ottie and Bea provides 

creative and imaginative gifts to suit all price ranges, and specialises in having fun 

with creative workshops and storytelling, set with a wonderfully theatrical backdrop. 

The shop is open from 9am-5pm on weekdays and until 5.30pm on Saturdays, at 

12 Old Dover Road, Blackheath Royal Standard SE3, 020 8465 5318, 

www.ottieandthebea.co.uk and on Facebook. 

Local Shops 

Here are our favourites (tell them we sent you): s 

TOYS and GAMES 

2nd Impressions, 10 Montpelier Vale, 

Blackheath, 020 8852 6192 

Art Stationers and Toyshop, 

31 Dulwich Village, 020 8693 5938 

Beckenham Toyshop, 226 High Street, 

Beckenham, 020 8650 5355 

Education Interactive, 10 Staplehurst Road, 

Hither Green, 020 8318 6380 

Green Baby, 52 Greenwich Church Street, 

020 8858 6690 

Just Williams, 105 Grove Vale, East Dulwich, 

020 8299 3444 

Just Williams, 18 Half Moon Lane, Herne Hill, 

020 7733 9995 

Ottie and the Bea, 12 Old Dover Road, Blackheath 

Royal Standard, 020 8465 5318 

Soup Dragon, 106 Lordship Lane, East Dulwich, 

020 8693 5575 

s 

s 

BOOKSHOPS 

Beckenham Bookshop, 42 High Street, 

Beckenham, 020 8650 9744 

Bookseller Crow, 50 Westow Street, 

Crystal Palace, 020 8771 8831 

Dulwich Books, 3 Croxted Road, 

West Dulwich, 020 8670 1920 

Kirkdale Bookshop, 272 Kirkdale, Sydenham, 

020 8778 4701 

Review, 131 Bellenden Road, Peckham, 

020 7639 7400 

Tales on Moon Lane, 25 Half Moon Lane, 

Herne Hill, 020 7274 5759 

s 

Village Books, 1d Calton Avenue, 

Dulwich Village, 020 8693 2808 


Love me again 

Love Me Again’s new Christmas stock is full of perfect presents for young boys and 

girls. There’s the ever popular Sophie la Giraffe, the teething toy that’s already 

soothed 20 million babies. Babies Go CDs are a great gift for parents and children 

alike, with classics by the likes of Coldplay, Take That and Michael Jackson reborn as 

modern lullabies. Boys will love the wooden toy garage fully equipped with three 

floors of parking space, an elevator tower, helipad, gas station and car. 

And not to forget the all time favourite, micro scooter, now available in blue and pink. 

Little picture company 

The Little Picture Company is a magical world of art, filled with 

lasting treasures to inspire your child’s natural imagination. 

Offering exquisite hand-finished limited edition and original artwork to 

decorate your child’s nursery or bedroom, the collection also makes a truly 

unique and timeless gift for new babies, birthdays, christenings and naming 

ceremonies. 

Prints are beautifully wrapped, ready for you to slide into your favourite 

frame! Their artwork is printed to a range of environmentally friendly papers 

(including bamboo) and printed with animal-friendly inks. 

Choose from their extensive online gallery or contact them directly to 

arrange a personalised commission, www.thelittlepicturecompany.org, 

07590 607424. 

A gift of learning 

If you’d rather have gardening know-how than bubble bath or a new nightie this 

year - or know someone else in the same boat; a gardening gift voucher could 

bring a bloom to your borders. 

Plews Gardens Design offer gardening tutorials as an ideal gift for individuals 

or small groups, where the ‘classroom’ is your own garden, and the ‘lessons’ are 

in increasing your knowledge and pleasure of your own space. The range of 

courses include: The Edible Garden, The Practical Garden, and The Low 

Maintenance Garden, with a flexible choice of modules and sessions ranging 

from two hours to half a day. 

For information, visit www.plewsgardendesign.co.uk or call 020 8289 8086. 

Couture cookies and cakes 

The Couture Cookie Shop’s new range of baked treats for the festive season are 

bold and bright in design, come in gorgeous gift packaging and can be 

personalised for loved ones. A rich fruit cake with your family name in print, 

Christmas cookies each embossed with the names of the children or a box 

of yuletide cupcakes for a special friend would all make special gifts this 

season. Have a colourful Christmas with a funky flower cake, retro red 

gingerbread men and twinkling stars on your cupcakes. 

Best of all, these stunning edible creations are made with organic ingredients, 

no chemicals or preservatives, and taste even better than they look. 

Order yours online at www.thecouturecookieshop.co.uk. Orders for Christmas 

close on Friday 10th December so book early to avoid disappointment. 

Advent fairs 

Of course, ‘tis also the season for Christmas Fairs. Make a day of it and pick up unique gifts while winning a 

raffle or two and munching on home made cakes in aid of a local cause, while your children make decorations for 

your tree. See our What’s On pages for dates and details. 

GORGEOUS GIFTS 

Alhambra Home & Garden, 148 Kirkdale, Sydenham, 020 3417 6385 

Biff Childrenswear, 43 Dulwich Village. 020 8299 0911 

Bunka, 4 Dartmouth Road, Forest Hill, 020 8291 4499 

Dulwich Trader, 9 Croxted Road, West Dulwich, 020 8761 3457 

Ed Warehouse, 1 Zenoria Street, East Dulwich, 020 8693 3033 

Hope & Greenwood sweetshop, 20 Northcross Road, East Dulwich, 

020 8693 9010 

Jumping Bean, 45 Honor Oak Park, Forest Hill, 020 8314 4747 

Jumping Bean, 47 High Street Beckenham, 020 8650 5889 

Love Me Again, 37 Staplehurst Road, Lee, 020 8244 0172 

Melange Chocolate Shop, 184 Bellenden Road, Peckham, 07722 650711 

Moe’s Potting Shed, 109 Rosendale Road, West Dulwich SE21, 

020 8761 2600 

Smash Bang Wallop, 85 Church Road, Crystal Palace, 020 8771 5517 

South of the River, 56 Westow Street, Crystal Palace, 020 8653 1669 

Stardust, 294 Milkwood Road, Herne Hill, 020 7737 0199 

Tomlinsons, 89 Dulwich Village, 020 8299 1260 

Willow, 33 North Cross Road, East Dulwich, 020 8693 8292 


Fourway Pharmacy 

12 Half Moon Lane, Herne Hill, London SE24 9HU 

Special offer! 

Free pack of eco-friendly nappies when 

renting a TENS machine for labour! 

Roger Humbles MRPharmS 

020 7924 9344 

e mail: fourway@npanet.co.uk 

inspirational ideas... 

flexible solutions 

gardening tutorials 

garden design and consultancy 

Tel: 020 8289 8086 or 0777 6237288 

www.plewsgardendesign.co.uk 

• Moltex, Nature, Bambo and 

Tushies eco-friendly nappies 

• Buggiboards 

• Baby passport photos 

• Green toiletries, homeopathy, 

aromatherapy 

• Friendly and free health advice 

wwww.fourwaypharmacy.co.uk 

Beautiful & natural family 

photography, a perfect Christmas gift. 

Call: 07747 795 407 

Mention ‘Families’ for 15% discount! 

www.peternorthall.com 

A brand new shop for children 

creative and imaginative games, toys, party essentials, 

cups and plates, books, clothes and so much more 

regular storytelling and creative workshops 

“Welcome to Ottie and the Bea... not only does it look great...it is great. 

I’m going to be shopping a lot... wonderful pressies” Facebook review 

12 Old Dover Road Blackheath Royal Standard London SE3 7BT 

020 8465 5318 e: shop@ottieandthebea.co.uk 

www.ottieandthebea.co.uk 

Monday- Friday 9am to 5pm 

+ Saturday 9.30am to 5.30pm 


5

6 

The Great Gift Guide 

Latest additions 

may be slightly 

oblivious to the 

seasonal chaos 

but you’ll 

remember their 

first Christmas 

forever and will 

be keen to make 

it extra special. 

Nothing says ‘I 

love you’ like a 

keepsake or 

something they 

can cherish for 

years to come. 

My First Dolly 

will be loved by all. She is so squeezably soft that 

little arms will adore snuggling up to her. Dressed 

beautifully, she has wild hair that little hands will love 

to touch and tug. £19. 

Alphabet Blocks. Painted with bright colours, clear 

letters and imaginative illustrations these wooden 

blocks can help little children 

when learning letters, colours and 

much more besides. £17. 

by Holly Wadsworth-Hill 

THE NIGHTS have drawn in, there’s already a chill in the air and there’s more than 

one kind of wrapping-up on everyone’s mind. It can only mean one thing... Christmas 

is on its way. 

With the big family get-together to look forward to, our fun-filled guide to all things 

festive will help make this year a Christmas to remember... 

It’s the thought that counts... 

Recent economic difficulties have triggered a new dawn of consumerism. Many of us are now concentrating 

on quality purchases that will stand the test of time. Nostalgia has unveiled tradition as the new vogue and 

whilst the latest crazes and popular characters certainly have their place, children are arguably more 

demanding and harder to please than ever before. There’s a reason why some of the old favourites are 

resurfacing and proving their worth to a new generation of inquisitive minds. Children like to be entertained 

but they thrive on interaction, they will happily watch but they learn quicker from doing, they benefit from 

competition but they enjoy team work. Classic toys are all this and much more and they really do have 

timeless appeal. With that in mind this year, why not focus on something they will love this Christmas but 

will treasure for many more to come. 

Hamleys tale 

Stuck on the basics or searching for 

finishing touches? Take inspiration from 

the world’s most famous toy store. 

Hamleys was established by Cornishman 

William Hamley, in London in 1760. Today 

it remains the world’s most wonderful toy 

shop, synonymous with theatre, magic and 

entertainment. 

Here are their recommendations for 

Christmas presents that will light up little 

faces this year: 

Baby’s first Christmas 


T is for trouble and 

toddlers 

Busy little hands are into all things naughty as well 

as nice, so classic toys should be at the top of the 

list. The educational benefits and development of 

imagination and play skills from these toys are 

extensive but cleverly masked behind the colour, 

fun and excitement that toddlers crave. And they’re 

both made from fsc wood. 

Teaching Clock. Hamleys colourful Fun to Learn 

Teaching Clock helps teach time, number and letter 

recognition, as well as developing motor and 

problem solving skills through play. £14. 

Wooden London Bus. The 

wheels on the bus go round 

and round! The top of 

this traditional big 

red bus opens to 

reveal 24 little 

wooden 

passengers and 

one cheerful 

driver. 

Great for 

developing 

hand to eye 

co-ordination. £32.50. 

s 

For him 

Boys of all ages need to be kept busy and love fun 

and games that they can really get stuck into. If he 

can burn off some energy, create mess and make 

some noise, he’ll be in his element! 

Jet Plane Set. 

The Playmobil 

Jet Plane Set 

is great for 

developing 

thinking processes and encouraging creative play. 

This exciting Playmobil play set is a hit with boys 

and girls alike. £55. 

Wooden Garage. This brightly coloured garage 

has three levels, multi-storey graphics and 

realistic features throughout. There are loads of traditional 

role-play games and adventures to 

be had. £65. 

For her 

Sugar and spice and all things 

nice - most of the time anyway! Creativity is a girl’s 

best friend; indulge her imagination with everything 

from dressing-up costumes, role-play 

sets and arts and crafts. 

Dolly Tea Set. Time for tea, anyone? 

This enchanting Hamleys tea set 

comes in a cute carry case, so it’s 

perfect for taking to friends’ houses 

and keeps everything safe and tidy 

when little ones aren’t busy 

entertaining. £10. 

My Ballerina Doll. 

My Little Ballerina Doll 

is so pretty, soft and 

cuddly, she’s perfect for 

hugs. From the Sweet Peas 

collection, the doll is great for 

encouraging imagination and 

nurturing role-play skills. £12. 


It’s all about quality time... 

‘Tis the season to spend with your loved ones: 

keep things merry with fun and games 

for the whole family. 

Games Chest. Enjoy a gaming 

adventure with this classic wooden 

gaming chest. Open the sliding 

drawers to reveal a smorgasbord 

of fun with 10 of the world’s 

greatest games. Includes chess, 

mancala, backgammon, solitaire, 

tic-tac-toe and lots more to entertain the very 

young and most experienced young-at-heart. £60. 

WIN WIN WIN! 

To celebrate 250 years of The Finest 

Toys in the World, Hamleys have 

teamed up with Families South East 

to give you the chance to win £250 of 

Hamleys vouchers. 

To enter, log on to www.familiesse.co.uk and go to 

Competitions at the top. 

Vouchers can be used online at www.hamleys.com or in 

one of their UK stores. The competition closing date is 

8 December. See online for full Terms and Conditions. 

Checklist 

Assuming you’ve got the obvious like the turkey and tree under control, this checklist 

covers the trimmings. Must-have ingredients for the perfect Christmas: 

Sellotape - yes, you probably did already buy some but no, it won’t be where you 

left it and it’s not likely to be enough 

Batteries of all shapes and sizes - no one wants a room full of redundant, lifeless 

toys on Christmas morning 

Carrot, mince pie and a tipple for Santa and his merry team of reindeer - 

they’ll need it after months of preparation and expense 

Breakfast - toast doesn’t cut it on Christmas morning: stock up on their favourites 

and don’t forget some strong coffee beans for the bleary eyed adults 

Pen and paper to hand - Father Christmas may be the hero of the hour but 

don’t forget to note down family and friends who’ve also treated the little ones in 

preparation for the writing of... 

Thank-you notes - try making your own from discarded wrapping paper - a great 

way to wind them down after all that excitement! 

Post-party clean up ammunition - your house will probably be chaos within 10 

minutes of children waking up on Christmas morning. Put it back together again 

for guests with a hefty supply of recycling bags etc. 

Top 10 Toys for Christmas 2010 

s 


s 

We know a thing or two about toys but if you want guaranteed smiles or 

favourite aunt/ uncle status, you can’t go wrong tracking down something from 

this list. Be warned though, these toys are set to sfly from the shelves quicker 

than Santa’s sleigh, so don’t miss out! 

1. Toy Story 3 Buzz Lightyear Action Figure 

2. Dr Who Sonic Screwdriver 

3. Ben 10 Ultimate Alien Disc Ultimatrix 

4. Beyblade Metal Fusion Super Vortex Battle Set 

5. Barbie Video Girl 

6. VTech Storio Animated Phonics Book 

7. Kung Zhu Hamsters 

8. Armouron Action Set 

9. VTech Kidizoom Video Camera 

10. Monopoly Revolutions Board Game 

 

 

 

 

Family Legal Services 

To arrange an initial free consultation please ring 

020 8858 6971 

Friendly, professional legal advice 

Email family@grantsaw.co.uk Visit www.grantsaw.com 

Norman House, 110-114 Norman Road, Greenwich, SE10 9EH 

Find us just around the corner from Greenwich train & DLR stations 

® 

all rhythm and no blues! 

For classes in: 

Blackheath & Greenwich, 

Dulwich & Herne Hill, 

Tel: 020 8764 5185 

Forest Hill, Sydenham 

and Crystal Palace 

Tel: 020 8699 0977 

Beckenham, Bromley, 

Chislehurst & West Wickham 

Tel: 020 8777 6700 

www.monkeymusic.co.uk 

Music classes for babies 

and young children! 

Action songs and rhymes 

Music and movement 

Fun with percussion 

Musical games 

Since 1993 thousands of children across the UK have 

grown up with Monkey Music. Our unique teaching 

curriculum was written by classically trained musicians, 

and introduces music to very young children in a way 

they can easily understand and enjoy. 

Rock ‘n’ roll - from 3 months 

Heigh ho – from 12 months 

Jiggety jig – 2 & 3 year olds 

Ding dong – 3 & 4 year olds 

It’s fun, formative and a great way of making friends! 

want to read more? 

Families’ website has hundreds of articles 

on parenting, family health, education, childcare, 

reviews and more 

Plus What’s On listings, back issues and a 

useful directory of local companies. 

Register with us for even more local information, 

competitions and a local forum 


november 2010 - families south east 7

8 

Spotlight on 

Stagecoach 

2010 HAS BEEN another 

great year for Stagecoach 

Dulwich with over 230 

students attending classes 

in dance, drama and 

singing every weekend. 

Jonny Clines has now 

been the Principal for five 

years and has been very 

encouraged by the resilience of the 

school in these less than ideal economic times. 

When we caught up with him, he told us: “Seeing 

the students grow up with Stagecoach has been 

a great source of satisfaction for me. The school 

continues to be popular with all age groups and 

I am thrilled with the commitment and loyalty of 

the students.” 

Stagecoach has produced some great shows this 

year. In the summer term, all 150 of the main school 

students performed in ‘Sister Act’ The students 

loved dressing up as nuns and gangsters and the 

shows were all entertaining and great fun. 

Holiday workshops 

During the Easter holidays over 100 students 

performed in ‘ABBA - Thank you for the music’, 

with another stage-stomping production of 

‘Hairspray - the musical’ in the summer holidays. 

Act, sing and dance 

at your local Stagecoach 

Here’s a way to spend weekends that’ll 

have 4-16 year olds buzzing. Enrol them in 

your local Stagecoach Theatre Arts school 

where they learn to act, sing and dance. 

The skills they learn aren’t just for the 

Stage. Our students grow in confidence 

and self-esteem …..Skills for Life! 

There’s no audition – all they need is 

enthusiasm. 


On stage in the 

west end 

In June, Dulwich was one of 16 

Stagecoach schools taking part in 

a special showcase performance at 

Her Majesty’s Theatre (the home of 

Phantom Of The Opera). They 

rehearsed for just one hour a week 

(for nine weeks) to create ‘Good 

and Evil’. 

Using three songs from the 

Broadway musical ‘Jeckyll and 

Hyde’, the performers staged a 

dramatic and difficult piece that 

focussed on the terror and suspicion caused 

by the murderous Mr Hyde in Victorian London. 

Feedback from parents was overwhelming, and 

students were fascinated by a behind-the-scenes 

tour to see how it all came together on the day. 

Beckenham 01932 020 256 8979 212 2156 

Blackheath 0800 020 169 8417 5519 0010 

Dulwich 0845 0845 055 055 6368 6368 

Sydenham 020 020 8949 8949 1116 1116 

Theatre 

trips 

Regular theatre 

trips also continue 

to be popular with 

students. In June 

70 students went to 

see ‘Sister Act’ and 

in November they 

had fantastic seats 

for ‘Legally Blonde’. 

Jonny sees this 

as an important part 

of the Stagecoach 

experience: “The students are always fired up by 

seeing a live West End show and they get to see 

all of the things we talk to them about put into 

practice.” 

More information 

Places are available in some classes for the spring term from January. For Dulwich, call Jonny on 

0845 055 6368 or see www.stagecoach.co.uk/dulwich for full details; and see the ad below for more 

local schools. 

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Schools run across the UK, providing weekly classes in singing, dance and 

drama for 4-18 year-olds. They also run an agency for young performers, producing a 

Spotlight directory which is accessed by casting professionals. Find out more at www.stagecoach.co.uk. 

Now 

NOW 

ENROLLING enrolling 

FOR JANUARY for 

2010 

Spring 

Term 2011 


What’sOn 

For even more What’s On listings, go to www.familiesse.co.uk 

Christmas and Holiday Workshops 

STUDIO FILM SCHOOL TV WORKSHOP 

11 December, ALDERBROOK PRIMARY SCHOOL, Oldridge Road, 

Balham SW12, 020 7538 8521, www.studiofilmschool.co.uk 

Spend a day making a Christmas Special TV programme. Find out the 

secrets behind your favourite shows, learn multi-camera filming techniques 

as you create your TV set and run your own live broadcast. Ages 7 to 14 

years, 10am-4pm, £45 per child, £40 for siblings. 

ALADDIN WITH PERFORM 

20-22 December, St STEPHEN’S MILLENNIUM HALL, College Road, 

Dulwich SE21, 0845 400 1277, www.perform.org.uk 

Take off on the adventure of a lifetime with Perform’s experienced theatre 

professionals. The three day workshop will combine live original music, 

SE LONDON MUMPRENEURS EVENTS 

07909 691605, www.selondonmumpreneurs.blogspot.com, 

email clare@motherslife.co.uk 

9 November, HOW TO GET MEDIA COVERAGE FOR YOUR BUSINESS. 

Experienced journalist Nikki Spencer will examine opportunities available 

locally, nationally and in cyberspace and include practical advice on writing 

press releases and approaching publications. Robina Cowan from Families 

South East magazine will share her wisdom on what editors are looking for. 

10am-2.30pm, The Rosendale, West Dulwich, £55 includes a light lunch 

and tea or coffee; book first. 

16 November, NETWORKING LUNCH with Sell It Mama. A networking 

lunch for mothers in business, offering the chance to make new business 

contacts, tap into the experiences of other like-minded mums and hear from 

speaker Galia Orme, founder of Choc Chick Raw Chocolate Ltd. 11.30am- 

2pm, Crystal Palace, £25 includes a two-course meal and tea or coffee, 

book first. 

25 November, SOCIAL MEDIA WORKSHOP. Kate Spiers, founder of 

Wisdom London, will demystify the world of Facebook, blogs, Twitter and 

Tumblr, with practical insights about how it can be applied to your 

business. 11am-2.30pm in Lee, £45 including a light lunch and tea or 

coffee; book first. 

1 December, NETWORKING LUNCH with award winning guest speaker 

Sally Preston, Founder of Babylicious - frozen baby food. Make business 

contacts, tap into the experiences of other like-minded mums and hear 

from inspiring mumpreneur Sally Preston. 11.30 - 2pm in Blackheath, £25 

including a two-course meal; book first. 

MASTERCHEF LIVE 2010 

12-14 November, OLYMPIA, Hammersmith Road W14 8UX, 0844 581 1361, 

www.londonbbcgoodfoodshow.com 

See MasterChef presenters Greg Wallace and John Torode in action, along 

with celebrity chefs Michel Roux Jr, Rick Stein and James Martin, plus this 

year’s celebrity winner Lisa Faulkner. The three day feast of food will feature 

a MasterChef invention test, celebrity cook-offs, a huge farmers’ market with 

over 100 producers, recipes to take home and try, hot tips and the chance 

to buy yummy gifts and the latest kitchen gadgets. 

Open 9am-7pm Friday and Saturday, 9.30am-5.30pm Sunday. Tickets from 

£20.50 in advance. 

MIDCENTURY MODERN 

14 November, DULWICH COLLEGE, Dulwich Common SE21, 

www.modernshows.com 

Artists Dinos Chapman and Mike Nelson and furniture’s finest Sheridan 

Coakley, Matthew Hilton and Russell Pinch shop here. Top collectors and 

curators like Camilla Nicholls and Bruce Haines swell the ranks. The original 

Diary Dates for Grownups 

inspirational dance and quick-witted improvisation, with a a colourful mini 

performance on the final day. Ages 4-8, 10am-2pm each day. 

DRAMA, MUSIC AND DANCE WITH 

THEATREBUGS 

20+21 December, BLACKHEATH, EAST DULWICH and CLAPHAM, 

020 7350 2995, www.theatrebugs.co.uk 

Fun-filled, half day adventures - jam packed with drama, music, dance 

and arts and crafts. Ages 31 ⁄2 to 8 years. £26 per child, sibling discount 

available. 

20 December in Blackheath 9am-12pm, and East Dulwich 1.30-4.30pm. 

21 December in Clapham. 

show gets bigger and bigger with 80+ dealers and designers showing a 

mixture of vintage and modern that has design aficionados drooling. 

Because the organisers keep prices low for exhibitors and sellers, it’s the 

only event on the design calendar the design world has to pay to get into 

but they pay with a smile on their face and a flick of their difficult glasses, 

bless ‘em. 10am-4pm, £7 admission, accompanied under 14s free, free 

parking. 

CHRISTMAS CRAFT WORKSHOPS 

FOR ADULTS 

ALHAMBRA, 148 Kirkdale, Sydenham SE26, 020 3417 6385, 


15+22 November, CHRISTMAS MOSAICS. Make up to three unique 

Christmas gifts with Sally Earlham. In this two-part evening workshop, you 

will have the opportunity to create some smaller pieces, including small 

framed mirrors in a variety of pretty shapes, returning for the second 

evening to grout your creation. £40 for both sessions; book first. 

30 November, JEWELLERY MAKING. Join Bizou in making a beaded 

necklace and matching earrings for a loved on. 7-9pm, £30 includes 

materials: book first. 

WARDROBE RECYCLE 

20 November, CHURCH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD HALL, Handen Road, 

London SE12 8NR, www.thewifeswife.co.uk 

A new winter wardrobe without painful prices - what a good idea. Diary date 

Wardrobe Recycle, where you can pick up womenswear and accessories 

for less, sell on your own unworn or barely worn items - or both. A new 

wardrobe for winter, or a Christmas outfit in just two hours without the high 

street crowds! 2-4pm, admission £1, creche available, register first online 

if you would like to be a seller. 

LOOSE ENDS CHRISTMAS CRAFTS 

25 November, St MICHAEL’S CHURCH HALL, Pond Road, 

Blackheath SE3, 020 8858 8889, www.looseends.co 

Behind every creative child is a mum or dad, desperate to have a go at 

cutting, sticking or stitching. For all you closet crafters, a new organisation 

called Loose Ends is running craft sessions and classes for busy people 

in southeast London. 

First up is their Christmas crafts evening. In a one-off session of two and 

half hours you will be able to make a folding bag using a sewing machine, 

lovely fabrics, ribbons and buttons; needlefelted Christmas decorations; 

embroider a hand sewn piece to frame or to make into a brooch; or a 

crochet Christmas tree - and if you are a quick learner you will make 

Christmas tree bunting. 

The sessions are small and friendly and creativity will no doubt be helped 

by the glass of wine and artisan cheese halfway through the evening. 

7.30-10pm, £25 includes materials, book first. 

NCT NEARLY NEW SALE 

27 November, St LAURENCE CENTRE, 37 Bromley Road, Catford SE6, 

www.nct.org.uk/in-your-area/lewisham 

Save money and stock up on high-quality second hand items including 

toys, books, buggies, cots, children’s clothing, maternity wear, games, and 

much more. Organised by and for Lewisham NCT branch. 11am-12.30pm, 

admission £1. 

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EVENING 

3 December, ALHAMBRA, 148 Kirkdale, Sydenham SE26, 020 3417 6385, 


A chance to browse and buy goodies including hand made soaps, 

ceramics, jewellery, children’s gifts, wall tiles, extra virgin olive oils and 

more, with complimentary tapas and sangria, with live music and special 

offers. 6-9pm. 

NCT NEARLY NEW SALE: TOYS AND 

EQUIPMENT 

4 December, St JOHN’S CHURCH HALLS, Eden Park Avenue, 

Beckenham, Kent 

Bargain priced bedding, maternity and nursery equipment, playpens, 

cots, stairgates, prams, pushchairs, buggies, plus toys, games, puzzles, 

books and children’s CDs and DVDs. Organised by Beckenham and 

Borders NCT branch. 10.30am-12noon, entry £1. 

We are looking for children between the ages of 

2 and 12 years to assist us in a range of fun 

activities investigating how children see. 

The Child Vision Lab is based at the UCL 

Institute of Ophthalmology in Central London. 

We will refund any travelling costs up to £20. 

020 7608 6819 

www.childvisionlab.org 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


9

MoreWhat’sOn 


10 families south east - november 2010 

Festive Fairs & School Fundraisers 

ST JOHN’S CHRISTMAS FAIR 

26 November, ST JOHN’S SCHOOL, Maple Road, Penge 

Christmas gifts, cards, jewellery and toys from local traders. 7-9pm. 

DECK THE HALLS CHRISTMAS FAIR 

28 November, DULWICH COLLEGE, College Road SE21 

The Dulwich College ‘Deck the Halls’ Christmas Fair has become one of 

the largest and most popular Christmas fairs in south London. Choose 

your Christmas presents and treats from over 100 stalls offering quality 

and original festive gifts for every budget, get your festive food and treats 

from the food hall and enjoy a variety of entertainment for all the family. 

Whether it be a visit to Santa in his workshop, or watching a rugby match 

whilst enjoying hog roast, there’s something for everyone. 11am-4pm, all 

welcome. 

EGYPTIAN BOOK OF THE DEAD 

4 November - 6 March 2011, BRITISH MUSEUM, Great Russell Street, 

London, WC1B 3DG, 020 7323 8000, www.britishmuseum.org 

Follow the ancient Egyptians’ 

journey from death to the 

afterlife in this fascinating 

exhibition. Exhibits include 

beautifully illustrated spells on 

papyrus and linen, amulets, 

jewellery, statues, mummies 

and coffins. Some of these 

objects are more than 3500 

years old and the ancient 

Egyptians believed that they 

would help them on their 

journey to the afterlife. Enjoy 

an introductory film for young 

visitors, an interactive family 

trail through the trials of the 

underworld and discover more 

with the exhibition family multimedia guide. A full family events 

programme accompanies the exhibition. Prebooking recommended on 

020 7323 8181. Under 16s free with an adult. 

FAMILY EVENTS AT THE IWM 

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM, Lambeth Road, London SE1, 020 7416 5000, 

www.iwm.org.uk Museum open daily 10am-6pm. 

7, 13 + 14 November, MUD, BLOOD AND POPPYCOCK. Find out what 

it was like to serve in the First World War by examining typical objects 

from the Museum’s Collections. As part of the ‘What is War?’ informal 

learning series this session will also tackle the difficult subject of memory 

and conflict, challenging some of the traditional myths of the war. 11amnoon 

and 2-4pm, free. Suitable for all ages with parental supervision. 

7, 13 + 14 November, POPPY MAKING. Make your own commemorative 

poppy while discussing the concepts of the cost of war and remembrance. 

Part of the ‘What is War?’ informal learning series. 11am and 

2pm starts, free. Suitable for all ages with parental supervision. 

Until January 2011 THE MINISTRY OF FOOD, until January 2011. 

Seventy years ago the wartime government announced the introduction 

of food rationing - a control that was to remain in force for the next 

fourteen years. The British public adapted to a world of food shortages 

by lending a hand on the land and being frugal and inventive with food. 

The exhibition features a wartime greenhouse, a 1940s grocer’s shop, 

and a typical kitchen complete with larder, gas cooker, and an ample 

stock of economy recipes, demonstrating that growing your own food, 

eating seasonal fruit and vegetables, reducing imports, recycling and 

healthy nutrition were just as topical in 1940 as they are today. Adults 

£4.95, children £2.50, family ticket £13. 

LORD MAYOR’S SHOW 

13 November, CENTRAL LONDON, www.lordmayorsshow.org 

An annual procession of groups from all over the world alongside military 

bands, charities, community projects and more, including a military 

Events & Exhibitions 

MILLENNIUM PRIMARY SCHOOL 

CHRISTMAS FAIR 

3 December, MILLENNIUM PRIMARY SCHOOL, 50 John Harrison Way, 

Greenwich Peninsula SE10 0BG 

Funfair rides, Santa’s grotto, craft and activity stalls, a BBQ, grand finale 

fireworks and much more. 3.30-5.30pm. 

STAPLEHURST ROAD CHRISTMAS 

FAIR 

4 December, Staplehurst Road, Hither Green SE13 

Lots to see and experience, including delicious food from the new Italian 

Deli, lovely cakes from the ever popular You Don’t Bring Me Flowers, and 

many interesting stalls selling unique last minute Christmas gifts. Love 

Me Again Kids Boutique and the Education Interactive shop will also be 

open for business. All from 10am, nearest train station Hither Green. 

flypast. The procession starts at 11am from Mansion House, travelling 

down Cheapside to St Paul’s Cathedral for a blessing, then on to the 

Strand. The show finishes at 5pm with a spectacular fireworks display 

on the Thames between Blackfriars and Waterloo bridges. 

DISCOVER DOGS 

13+14 November, EARLS COURT 1, 

West Cromwell Road, 0844 581 1381, 

www.discoverdogs.org.uk, 

www.ykc.org.uk 

A weekend of dog-lovers’ fun, with 

grooming and handling competitions, 

a ‘dogstable’ course, superhero fancy 

dress, agility challenges, plus displays 

from charities such as Hearing Dogs for 

Deaf People, Canine Partners, and 

Dogs of the Disabled giving visitors an 

understanding of how dogs really enrich 

lives. Open 10am-5pm each day, under 

12s free, 12-15 year-olds £7, adults £10. 

LEE GREEN OPEN STUDIOS 

13-14 and 20-21 November, VARIOUS VENUES, 

www.leegreenopenstudios.com 

A record number of 50 

fabulous artists are 

opening their doors to the 

community, showing and 

selling a wide range of 

media including painting, 

jewellery, photography, 

ceramics, textiles, prints 

and sculpture. Visitors will 

have the opportunity to 

buy unique locally made 

Christmas presents, meet 

with artists working in the 

area and find out about 

their artwork and techniques. 

Talk to the artist; be inspired to be creative yourself, or 

commission your own individual piece of art. 

On 13 November the Stark Gallery is running children’s painting 

sessions from 12noon to 2pm, and on 14 and 21 November Leegate 

Community Centre are running knitting and crochet tuition from 4.30- 

6pm. Local cafes are also exhibiting samples of artists’ work, providing 

rest and refreshment in between visits to studios and houses. 

For the full line up, go to the event website or pick up a leaflet from any 

Lewisham library. 

NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM 

NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM and QUEEN’S HOUSE, Greenwich 

SE10, 020 8858 4422, www.nmm.ac.uk 

13 November, Diwali celebrations. A dynamic afternoon of music, dance 

and creative workshops for all the family, with a vibrant procession from 

the museum to the Royal Observatory. 11.30am-4pm, all ages, free. 

Saturdays, meet a character from the past and take part in an exciting 

performance that brings maritime history to life. On the hour from noon 

to 3pm, ages 6+, free. 

Sundays, discover stories of exploration and adventure on the high seas 

and make your mark through design, craft, illustration and music. All 

ages, 11.30am-1.30pm and 2-4pm. 

MUSEUM OF LONDON 

MUSEUM OF LONDON, London Wall EC2Y 5HN, 020 7001 9844, 

www.museumoflondon.org.uk 

Museum open daily 10am-6pm, admission free. Regular programmes of 

weekend and holiday events and workshops help visitors find out more 

about London’s history, covering events such as the Great Plague, 

Londoners’ jobs and occupations, and Roman life. 

Wednesdays, MINI MOLES BABIES GROUP. Learn, play and explore 

together with other babies aged 6 months to walking and their carers. 

Sessions include multi-sensory play, rhymes and songs. From 11am. 

14 November, SMELLY ROMANS. A Roman cookbook was full of 

delicious foods such as stuffed dormice and milky snails! Join the art 

workshop and fill a Roman larder with spices from all over the world to 

take home. 12.30-2.30pm, drop in. 

21 November, MARCHING ORDERS. Meet a company of Roman 

soldiers and take a closer look at their clothes, armour and way of life. 

Ages 5+, 11.30am-4pm, free. 

4-22 December, VICTORIAN SANTA’S GROTTO. Meet Father Christmas 

in his secret grotto in 19th century Sailortown. Tell him about your 

seasonal hopes and dreams then take home a special gift to kick off the 

festivities. There will also be a chance to have your photo taken with 

the man in red himself, which will be mounted as a festive keepsake to 

remember your visit. Book first. Grotto entry £5 includes a present 

(photograph extra) 

MUSEUM OF LONDON DOCKLANDS 

MUSEUM OF LONDON DOCKLANDS, West India Quay, London E14, 

020 7001 9844, www.museumoflondon.org.uk/docklands 

Thursdays, UNDER 5s STORYTIME. Meet in the galleries for stories, 

music and fun every Thursday during term time, and play in the 

interactive Mudlark gallery. From 3pm. 

15 November, MINI MUDLARKS. Sing, rhyme and play together in the 

Mudlarks gallery. The session is for babies aged 6 months to walking 

and their carers, and offers stories and songs. From 12.45pm. 

20 November, A DAY ON OLD LONDON BRIDGE. Enjoy an 

action-packed tale and recreate the sights, sounds and movements 

in the crowded thoroughfare of old London Bridge. Ages 4+, 12.30- 

1.15pm and 2.30-3.15pm. 

MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD 

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD, Cambridge Heath Road E2 9PA, 

020 8983 5200, www.museumofchildhood.org.uk 

Open 10am-5.45pm Mondays to Sundays, admission free. 

Lots to do for children with trails, tours and creative Art Smarts, and 

a fabulous collection of toys from the past. 

Until 14 November, BLING. Take a closer look at the diversity of jewellery 

in east London, and discover how the ornaments we use to decorate 

our bodies often have great personal and cultural significance. Every 

piece of jewellery tells a particular story and what we value is highly 

subjective. Gold and diamonds make expensive statements about material 

value whereas an inexpensive trinket might have some profound 

sentimental value associated with a place, a person or a time in our life. 

Until 2 January 2011, DOLL FACE. A series of portraits by photographer 

Craig Deane, depicting a variety of dolls from the Museum’s extensive 

behind the scenes collection. 

Until 9 January, CUT IT, FOLD IT, BUILD IT WITH PAPER. Drawn from 

Robert Freidus’ extensive collection this exhibition features nearly 200 

examples of architectural paper models. There are architectural paper 

models produced specifically for adults, a model town, and paper 

models produced for children. 

Until 20 March, LIVING WITH AUTISM. A series of small displays 

exploring some of the more challenging aspects of contemporary 

childhood, bringing them to greater attention. Living with Autism is 

a thought-provoking display taking a look at life through the eyes of 

children with autism, in collaboration with the National Autistic Society. 

WINTER WONDERLAND 

19 November - 4 January, HYDE PARK, London, 0871 620 7064, 

www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com 

London’s most dazzling winter 

event is back for the fourth year, 

with magical treats for all ages. 

You’ll find London’s largest ice 

rink, a Christmas themed Zippos 

Circus, giant observation wheel, 

roller coaster rides, hundreds 

of wooden chalets filled with 

unusual and handmade gifts, 

a ‘Cirque d’Hiver’ show with 

contortionists, Wheel of Death 

and battle of fire, a Rock and Roll 

Circus and festive, continental 

food stalls. Father Christmas and 

his entertaining elves will be in his grotto from noon to 6pm each day 

for a free visit including a special gift. Winter Wonderland is open from 

10am-10pm daily except Christmas Day, admission free. Tickets for 

shows, performances, skating and the observation wheel can be bought 

in advance. 

LEEDS CASTLE FESTIVE FAIR 

20 + 21 November, LEEDS CASTLE, Maidstone, Kent ME17 1PL, 

01622 765400, www.leeds-castle.com 

An experience for the whole family to enjoy, set in the picturesque 

grounds of the historic castle near Maidstone. Over 150 exhibitors 

showcase their wares in a heated and carpeted marquee, with stocking 

fillers and gift ideas, crafts and fashion, plus festive food and drink. 

Children can make a Christmas card while parents browse the stalls. 

Open 10am-5pm, admission free for under 4s, children £10, adults 

£17.50 for a ticket valid for 12 months..

SANTA COMES TO ORPINGTON 

27 November - 24 December, WALNUTS SHOPPING CENTRE, Orpington, Kent 

Parading through the High Street at 10.30am on 27 November, Santa will be pulled along the high street in his 

carriage by two magical unicorns before arriving at the Walnuts Shopping Centre. While the unicorns take a rest in 

the Market Square, Santa will unveil his magical Grotto, ready to welcome children and give each one a small gift. 

Santa’s Grotto will be open from 10am-4pm every weekend until 19 December and daily until Christmas Eve, 

admission free. 

NARNIA IN A CASTLE 

1-24 December, HEVER CASTLE, near Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG, 01732 865224, www.hevercastle.co.uk. 

Christmas bookings 01732 861701 or email bookings@hevercastle.col.uk 

Wednesdays to Sundays, 10.30am-4pm, castle and garden admission £7 children, £13 adults, £33 families. 

Step through the wardrobe and join Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy in the magical world of Narnia. The castle will 

be sumptuously decorated with sparkling lights and welcoming log fires, with Mr Tumnus, Aslan and the White Witch 

in a series of tableaux recounting the adventures of Narnia. 

Weekend GROTTO. Walk through frosty woodland pathways to find Father Christmas in his snow-covered grotto, 

where elves will be busy creating toys and little donkey William will take smaller children on a ride. Book first, £10 per 

child includes a gift of the same value. 

2 December, CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR selling beautiful handmade Christmas gifts including jewellery, accessories, 

womenswear and childrenswear. 10.30am-3.30pm, admission £3. 

VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS 

5 December, CHIDDINGSTONE CASTLE, Hill Hoath Road, near Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7AD, 01892 870347, 

www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk 

Find out how the Victorians celebrated Christmas and discover the different traditions of the rich and the poor 

households. There will be a variety of traditional Victorian games and yuletide storytelling, including the tale of Santa 

Claus, which became popular in England during the 1870s. In the castle’s activity rooms children can test their 

creative skills through arts and crafts workshops, and write their very own letter to Santa Claus in time for his visit 

on Christmas Eve. 11am-5pm, admission £4 children, £7 adults, £19.50 families. 

FATHER CHRISTMAS AND SEASONAL CHALLENGE 

5, 11, 12, 18, and 19 December, BODIAM CASTLE, Bodiam, near Robertsbridge, East Sussex TN32 5UA, 

01580 830196, www.national.trust.org.uk/bodiamcastle 

Take part in festive fun and games at Bodiam Castle 

and enjoy a private visit with Father Christmas in his 

medieval grotto. Tucked away at the heart of the 

castle, the unique grotto will be beautifully decorated 

with traditional decorations and soft sparkling lights 

to create a magical atmosphere for visitors. Inside, 

Father Christmas will be relaxing in his armchair, 

waiting patiently to meet all the good boys and girls 

and hear their Christmas wishes before giving them 

a special gift to take home. Outside the grotto, in the 

crisp winter air, children will love exploring the castle 

ruins with the castle’s seasonal challenge, which 

takes them on a festive adventure to track down the different clues hidden throughout. Castle admission £3.20 

children, £6.40 adults, £17 families. Father Christmas visit £7.50 per child (includes entry); book first. 

LAPLAND UK 

4-24 December, BEWL WATER ESTATE, near Tunbridge Wells, 

Kent, 0871 620 7063, www.laplanduk.co.uk 

Visit Father Christmas when Lapland comes to Kent. Visitors 

take a trip through an arctic wonderland with real reindeer and 

huskies, decorate gingerbread in Mother Christmas’ kitchen, 

send a postcard from the North Pole post office, work with 

elves in the toy factory, skate on ice, meet the mystical Sami 

people, and feast on warming snacks and meals. 

A personalised visit to Father Christmas himself in his snowy 

forest home completes the unique journey, with a high quality 

gift to take home. Time slot tickets £44.50 - £62.50; book first. 

D-DAY DUCK TOURS 

First Sunday of the month, from Chicheley Street SE1 (behind the London Eye), 020 7928 3132, 

www.londonducktours.co.uk 

London Duck Tours is launching a brand new land and river sightseeing tour. Using the actual ‘Duck’ vehicles built for 

D-day, the tours take passengers back in time to London’s home front during the Second World War, through London 

streets before splashing into the Thames. In a lively, entertaining and informative adventure suitable for all the family, 

a professional character tour guide will reveal the capital’s most important Second World War sights including the 

Cabinet War Rooms, Houses of Parliament, Downing Street, and Buckingham Palace. 

BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM FUN 

BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM, Threadneedle Street, London EC2R, 020 7601 5545, 

www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum 

The Bank of England Museum tells the story of the Bank of England from its foundation in 1694 to its role today as the 

UK’s central bank. Visitors can examine intricately-designed banknotes, feel the weight of a genuine gold bar and see 

THE pikes and muskets that were once used to defend the Bank. Children’s activity sheets provide fun for younger 

visitors. Open 10am-5pm Mondays to Fridays, admission free. 

13 November, LORD MAYOR’S SHOW. Face painters bring Ratty, Mole, Badger and Toad to life, turning young visitors 

into the well known characters from The Wind in the Willows, a former Secretary of the Bank of England. 11am-5pm. 

29 November - 3 December CHRISTMAS CALLIGRAPHY. A professional scribe will demonstrate different writing 

styles that can be used on Christmas cards and gift tags. 10.15am-1pm and 2-4.15pm. 

GEFFRYE MUSEUM EVENTS 

GEFFRYE MUSEUM, 136 Kingsland Road, Shoreditch E2, 020 7739 9893, www.geffrye-museum.org.uk 

Museum open 10am-5pm Tuesdays to 

Saturdays, from noon Sundays. 

Saturday Special workshops and quizzes 

inspire creativity and provide amusement for 

children on the first Saturday of every month. 

10.30am-12.30pm & 2pm-4pm. 

23 November - 2 January, CHRISTMAS PAST. 

Recapture the magic of Christmas with a walk 

through the museum’s eleven period rooms 

which are decorated in authentic festive style. 

Discover some of the rich and colourful 

traditions and celebrations of Christmases 

past which are often forgotten amid the 

hubbub of the modern festive season. 

From feasting, dancing and 

kissing under the mistletoe to playing parlour games, decorating the tree and throwing cocktail parties, the displays 

illustrate how Christmas has been celebrated in English middle-class homes from 1600 to the present day. 


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FLORENCE NIGHTINGALE MUSEUM 

FLORENCE NIGHTINGALE MUSEUM, 2 Lambeth Palace Road, 

South Bank, London SE1, 020 7620 0347, 

www.florence-nightingale.co.uk 

Uncover the lady behind the legend on London’s South Bank. The 

museum presents a vivid retelling of Florence Nightingale’s life and how 

modern nursing began. The museum’s unparalleled collection features 

highlights such as Florence’s pet little owl Athena as well as her lamp 

and medicine chest from the Crimean War. Engaging interactive exhibits 

as well as regular contemporary art exhibitions enhance the experience, 

visitors even use stethoscopes to hear the audio tour. Admission £4.80 

child, £5.80 adults, £16 families. 

CHILDREN AT THE V&A 

V&A MUSEUM, Cromwell Road SW7 2RL, 020 7942 2000, 

www.vam.ac.uk/families 

Pick up a trail from the Information Desk and explore the museum 

through puzzles, drawing and observation. Suitable for 7-12 year-olds. 

There are also hundreds of exciting hands-on exhibits containing plenty 

to touch and try out. Museum open 10am-5.45pm daily, admission free. 

Saturday BACK-PACKS. Pick up a back pack and explore the museum 

with fantastic jigsaws, stories, puzzles and games. 10.30am-5pm. 

7 November, UTTERLY CLARICE BEAN. Join Clarice on a journey 

through the museum and discover some mischievous ideas for a story. 

Use your ideas and lots of imagination to create and illustrate your own 

story using cut-outs and drawing techniques. 10.30am-5pm, drop in. 

14 November, FANCY FASHION. Choose your favourite outfit from the 

V&A collection and design a fancy accessory to complete your costume. 

10.30am-5pm, drop in. 

21 November, WALKING THE LINE. One thousand lines have escaped in 

the museum overnight! See if you can spot some lines in design and use 

your discoveries to create an imaginary door to a fantasy world made 

entirely of lines. 10.30am-5pm, drop in. 

28 November, QUILTS, SILKS AND STORIES. Become a design 

detective and search the V&A for fun shapes and patterns, then design 

and create a textile square to add to the museum’s great story quilt. 

10.30am-5pm, drop in. 

HMS BELFAST 

HMS BELFAST, The Thames (between London Bridge and Tower 

Bridge, www.hmsbelfast.iwm.org.uk 

Open 10am-6pm, admission free for accompanied under 16s, £12.95 

adults. 

Until 31 December, LAUNCH! SHIPBUILDING THROUGH THE AGES. 

A family-oriented exhibition using hands-on and computerised interactive 

displays and engaging film and footage. Discover the techniques of 

shipbuilding, from the ‘age of sail’ to modern prefabrication methods. A 

tour of this complex and huge warship take visitors from the quarterdeck 

up to the top of her bridge and all the way down through her nine decks 

to her massive boiler and engine rooms, well below the ship’s waterline. 

CHURCHILL WAR ROOMS 

CHURCHILL WAR ROOMS, Clive Steps, king Charles Street SW1, 

www.iwm.org.uk 

The Cabinet War Rooms were created in 1938, as the underground 

storage areas of the Office of Works Building in Whitehall were converted 

to house the central core of government and to become a military 

information centre, serving the Prime Minister and the Chiefs of Staff of 

FAMILY SUNDAYS AT THE ALBANY 

THE ALBANY, Douglas Way, Deptford SE8, 020 8692 4446, 

www.thealbany.org.uk 

Fun for all the family with the best in theatre for the under 7s. Enjoy lunch 

and the Sunday papers in the cafe and garden, then take in a show. 

7 November, DISCO DAYZ, dancing for all ages up to 7, 2-5pm 

14 November, THE SCARECROW, ages 4+, 3pm. 

21 November, THE PAPER WASHI WISH, ages 4-7, 11am, 1pm and 3pm 

7-24 December, THREE LITTLE PIGS. A family show suitable for ages 

2-7. Tickets £7.50 children, £9 adults, £30 families. 

CHILDREN OF EDEN 

10-14 November, PUTNEY ARTS THEATRE, Ravanna Road, Putney 

SW15 6AW, 020 8572 0475, www.swanbankmusic.ticketsource.co.uk 

Taking its storyline from Genesis, the relationships between the Father, 

Adam and Eve have more to do with earthly families, their challenges 

and generational legacies. Tickets £12 children, £15 adults, with funds 

going to Trinity Hospice in Clapham. 

NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE 

The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1QG, 0844 871 7646, 

www.ambassadortickets.com/wimbledon 

12+13 November, HMS PINAFORE. A fast and hilarious production of 

the famous comic opera, packed to the brim with toe-tapping tunes. 

Tickets from £12. 

16-20 November, CIRQUE DE GLACE - EVOLUTION. A thrilling, 


the air, naval and land forces. Intended as a temporary site, the rooms 

became operational on 27 August 1939, a week before the German 

invasion of Poland and Britain’s declaration of war. This ‘temporary’ but 

timely measure served as the central shelter for government and military 

strategists for the next six years. Open 9.30am-6pm, admission free for 

under 16s, £14.95 adults. 

SEA LIFE LONDON AQUARIUM 

SEA LIFE LONDON AQUARIUM, County Hall, Southbank SE1, 

www.sealife.co.uk/london 

Journey across three continents and get up close and personal with over 

3000 of the rainforests’ most famous and feared residents from a pair of 

6ft West African dwarf crocodiles to a family of highly toxic poison arrow 

frogs and over 30 lethal piranhas. And as well as the exciting new 

Rainforests of the World, the Sea Life London Aquarium is home to 

thousands of marine creatures from every part of the world including 

46 sharks. Admission £12.50 children, £17.50 adults. 

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM 

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM, Cromwell Road, South Kensington SW7, 

020 7942 5000, www.nhm.ac.uk 

Weekends and school holidays HANDS-ON NATURE: CORALS. Visit the 

handling trolley in ‘Lasting Impressions’ and take a closer look at some 

interesting specimens with the help of the museum’s science educators. 

2-5pm, free. 

13 November, ANIMAL VISION. An interactive show with live animals 

demonstrating how eye adaptations in animals such as snakes, iguanas 

and chameleons allow individuals to escape and locate prey. Find out 

how bees and butterflies use ultraviolet light. Families with children aged 

7+, 10.30 and 11.30am, 1.30pm start, free. 

28 November, CRAFTY NATURE: OCEAN MAMMALS. Roll up your 

sleeves and join artists for exciting craft workshops in the Mammals 

gallery. Use interesting materials to make fun creations based on natural 

history themes. Under 7s, 11am-1pm and 2-5pm, free. 

28 November, NATURAL PUPPET TALES. Join a storyteller and puppets 

for lively storytelling workshops based on discovering amazing facts 

about the natural world. Families with under 7s, noon and 1.30pm start, 

free - reserve a place first at the information desk. 

Until 3 Jan 2011, THE MINISTRY OF FOOD. Discover how the British 

public adapted to a world of food shortages, and how growing your own 

food, eating seasonal fruits and vegetables, reducing imports, recycling 

and healthy nutrition were just as topical in 1940 as they are today. 

Tickets £2.50 to £4.95, families £13. Book on 020 7416 5439 or through 

the museum website. 

MUSEUM OF LONDON EVENTS 

MUSEUM OF LONDON DOCKLANDS, West India Quay E14, 

020 7001 9844, www.museumoflondon.org.uk/docklands. 

Also the MUSEUM OF LONDON, London Wall EC2Y 5HN, 

020 7001 9844, www.museumoflondon.org.uk 

Open daily 10am-6pm, admission free. Regular programmes of 

weekend and holiday events and workshops help visitors find out more 

about London’s history, covering events such as the Great Plague, 

Londoners’ jobs and occupations, and Roman life. 

FAMILY EVENTS AT THE HORNIMAN 

HORNIMAN MUSEUM and gardens, 100 London Road, Forest Hill 

SE23, 020 8699 1872, www.horniman.ac.uk 

Museum open 10.30am-5.30pm daily, admission free. Regular weekend 

Theatre, Music & Shows 

breath-taking experience filled with music, colour, incredible costumes 

and jaw-dropping acrobatics. Tickets from £10. 

30 November - 4 December, ANNIE. The endearing tale of little orphan 

Annie is back, giving a whole new generation the chance to experience 

an enchanting musical about never giving up hope. Tickets from £10 

PUPPET THEATRE BARGE 

PUPPET THEATRE BARGE, Little Venice, Blomfield Road, London W9, 

020 7249 6876, www.puppetbarge.com 

All tickets £8.50 children, £10 adults. 

6-21 November, THE TEMPEST. Shakespeare’s play is brought to 

life with sculpted wood and glass marionettes, beautiful lighting and 

specially composed music. Ages 10+. 

11-12 November and daily 18-23 and 27 December - 2 January, A 

CHRISTMAS CAROL. Dickens’ seasonal tale told through marionettes 

and shadow puppets, special effects and dramatic lighting. Ages 4+. 

THE LITTLE BIG CLUB 

13 November, Ashcroft Theatre, FAIRFIELD, Croydon CR9 1DG, 

020 8688 9291, www.fairfield.co.uk 

The Little Big Club Live in Concert is a theatrical and musical 

extravaganza from Hit Entertainment and Premier Stage Productions, 

which brings together an ensemble of the world most popular preschool 

characters in one exciting adventure. Bob The Builder, Barney & Friends, 

Angelina Ballerina, Fireman Sam, Fifi Forget-me-not and Pingu feature 

on stage together for the first time ever. 1pm and 3.30pm. 

Ice Rinks 

Put on your best hat and gloves and take a spin on ice over the festive 

season. Most seasonal rinks offer family sessions with guided help if 

required, and a rinkside cafe to watch the world (and the skaters) go 

by. Timed tickets can be booked through TicketMaster on 0844 847 

1707 or www.ticketmaster.co.uk 

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM, 5 November - 9 January 

CANARY WHARF, 13 November - 20 February 

WESTFIELD, 13 November - 2 January 

HYDE PARK Winter Wonderland, 19 November - 4 January 

LONDON EYE, 20 November - 5 January 

SOMERSET HOUSE, 23 November - 23 January 

TOWER OF LONDON, 27 November - 9 January 

HAMPTON COURT, 27 November - 9 January, 0844 871 8815, 

www.hamptoncourticerink.com 

and holiday drop-ins and workshops allow family visitors to explore the 

museum collection through arts and crafts, music, stories and hands-on 

sessions. 

DISCOVER GREENWICH 

OLD ROYAL NAVAL COLLEGE (next to the Cutty Sark), Greenwich SE10, 

www.greenwichwhs.org.uk 

Unlock the history of Maritime Greenwich, through artefacts, artwork, 

film and stories of former lives to bring the past to life. A permanent 

exhibition takes visitors on a journey from the College’s Tudor 

beginnings, through its naval past, as the Royal Hospital for Seamen 

and Royal Navy Staff College, right up to the present day. Special 

objects, including personal items from Henry VIII’s palace, as well as 

fascinating stories from monarchs, admirals and architects help chart the 

historic town’s development. 

Activities for children and families play a significant part in the new 

destination, enabling families to maximise their visit to Maritime 

Greenwich and for children to explore and understand the history of 

the magnificent site. 

ART AT SIR JOHN SOANE’S HOUSE 

SIR JOHN SOANE’S MUSEUM, 13 Lincoln’s Inn Fields WC2A 3PB, 

020 7440 4263, www.soane.org/families.htm 

Tucked away in Lincoln’s Inn Fields at the heart of London, this magical, 

mysterious museum encourages young visitors to explore Soane’s 

treasures and develop new skills with specialist guidance. Sir John 

Soane (1753- 1737) was an inveterate collector, filling every nook and 

cranny of his beautiful home with items that fascinated him. From fossils 

to classical fragments from Ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome and from 

contemporary paintings to architectural models, drawings and literature, 

he intended that after his death both his house and its extraordinary 

contents should be used to educate and inspire. Free drop-in activities 

run on the third Saturday of every month, with activities for all ages and 

families can take part together. 1.30-4.40pm. 


Somerset House 

PUSS IN BOOTS 

17 November - 16 January, THE ARTS CENTRE, 6-7 Great Newport 

Street, London WC2 7JB, 020 7492 1593, www.artstheatrewestend.com 

Take the magical journey to fairyland to meet Puss in Boots and al her 

friends. 

LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD 

Until 14 November, COLOUR HOUSE THEATRE, Merton Abbey Mills, 

Merantun Way SW19, 020 8542 5511, www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk 

Wonderful new songs and a sparkling, witty script for all the family to 

enjoy. Ages 3+, performances 2 and 4pm, tickets £7 children, £9 adults. 

HALF MOON THEATRE 

HALF MOON THEATRE, 43 White Horse Road, London E1, 

020 7709 8900, www.halfmoon.org.uk 

All tickets £6. 

13 November, FROM HERE.. TO THERE. A show all about the joy of 

building and knocking down, climbing over and crawling under, of 

hiding, of surprises and peek-a-boo; followed by a short play session 

after the performance. Ages 18 months to 4 years, shows at 1 and 3pm. 

20 November, THE BUG AND THE BUTTERFLY. A heart-warming tale 

and a poem on six legs, inspired by the work of Frederico Garcia Lorga. 

Ages 18 months to 3 years, shows at 11am and 2pm. 

27 November, WHEN WE LIVED IN UNCLE’S HAT. It doesn’t matter 

where you live - who you live with is the important bit. With live music 

throughout, this story is a search for the most magical place - a home.

THE TIGER IN ASIAN ART 

4 November - 12 February, ASIA HOUSE, 63 New Cavendish Street W1G 

7PL, 020 7307 5454, www.asiahouse.org 

Today the population of wild tigers is 

only 3200, and the aim is to double it. 

Asia House is showing exhibition of 

rare Asian paintings, sculptures, 

textiles and photographs. Aspects 

of the project are very much family 

orientated, with interactive rolling 

documentary films about the plight 

of the tiger providing a great way for 

kids to learn about this urgent issue. 

27 November, TIGER FAMILY DAY. 

Story telling, mask making and other 

activities, plus workshops teaching 

brush painting and calligraphy, tiger 

mask dance and music. 2-4pm, 

admission free with donations welcome to the charities WildAid, Born Free 

and the Environmental Investigation Agency. 

SOMERSET HOUSE FAMILY EVENTS 

SOMERSET HOUSE, Strand WC2, 020 7845 4600, www.somerset.org.uk 

Free family workshops run on Saturdays from 2-3.30pm. Tickets available 

from 1pm from the information desk. Children aged 6-12 years must be 

accompanied by an adult. Here are some highlights: 

13 November, WATERCOLOUR WETLANDS. Many artists have tried to 

capture the sea, rivers and lakes in their paintings. Discover these in the 

Courtauld Gallery then create your own wet and wonderful watercolour 

landscape. 

20 November, QUICK DRAW COUTURE. Take inspiration from the Dior 

exhibition and capture your favourite fashions as though you were reporting 

from the catwalk. 

27 November, FIGURE IT OUT. Discover how to make sculptures of figures 

in action, inspired by artists of the past who captured the movement of 

dancers and sportspeople, and the skaters on the Somerset House ice rink. 

DRAWING ROOMS 

14 November, DESIGN MUSEUM, Shad Thames, London SE1, 

www.designmuseum.org 

Young architects can get creative, combining drawing and a variety of 

modelling materials to turn 2D drawings into a 3D models inspired 

designs by the designs featured in the museum’s John Pawson Plain 

Space exhibition. 2-5pm, ages 5-11, £4 per child, adult admission £8.50. 

Ages 5+, performances at 11am and 2pm. 

4 December, HOW THE KOALA LEARNT TO HUG. Great stories with a 

host of wild characters, songs, games and first class hugging. Ages 4+, 

performances 11am and 2pm. 

MINI MAESTRO FAMILY CONCERTS 

St Martin-in-the-Fields Church, TRAFALGAR SQUARE, London WC2, 

020 7766 1100, www.lmaorchestsra.com 

The Mini Maestro team bring music alive with storytelling, miming and 

exploration. There are specially adapted games of hide and seek and 

musical chairs, and a chance to hear the instruments close-ups as 

friendly musicians go walkabout in the audience. 

20 November, BEETHOVEN’s 5th SYMPHONY, 4.45-5.30pm. 

11 December, 4pm-5pm. PROKOFIEV’s PETER AND THE WOLF, 4-5pm. 

FAMILY SHOWS AT THE LYRIC 

LYRIC HAMMERSMITH THEATRE, Lyric Square, King Street W6, 

0871 22 11720, www.lyric.co.uk 

Saturdays shows at 11am and 1pm, tickets £6 children, £8 adults, 

followed by Messy Play sessions for £5. 

13 November, TWINKLE TWONKLE. One night Stella and her little 

brother wish on a magical star and climb all the way to space on 

a telescope. Follow them on their adventure to find Peegasus the flying 

horse and a cow that jumps over the moon. Ages 4-7. 

20 November, THE NIGHT PIRATES. Brave little Tom peeps out of the 

window to find girl pirates stealing the front of his house. Join them on 

Art Activities 


ARTPLAY AT DULWICH PICTURE 

GALLERY 

DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY, Gallery Road, Dulwich Village SE21, 

020 8693 5254, www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk 

On the first and last Sundays of every month, adults and children are invited 

to drop-in for a different workshop activity each week. Make everything and 

anything from bunting to block printing and all things in between. 2-3-30pm, 

free with a gallery ticket or £2 per child. 

FAMILIES AT THE TATE 

TATE BRITAIN, Millbank SW1, 020 7887 8888, www.tate.org.uk/britain 

Open daily 10am-5.50pm, and until 10pm the first Friday of the month. 

Family trails are available daily from the Information Desks and are free 

for 5yrs and under. Go on a journey around Tate Britain and post your 

discoveries into your ‘Post it’ box as you go. When you get home, open 

up the box and show your friends what you found. Or you could follow 

the ‘Join up’ trail: play the listening game, search for shapes, patterns 

and talking hands, and make your own sculptures. 

Every weekend the free Art Trolley encourages children to imagine and 

create, make colourful collages, style a wonderful sculpture or perhaps 

make a sketchbook and fill it with great ideas. 

OUT OF ART INTO LITERACY 

Until 5 December, NATIONAL GALLERY, Trafalgar Square, London WC2, 

020 7747 2885, www.nationalgallery.org.uk 

An exhibition celebrating the outcomes of two innovative projects involving 

local primary schools: Into the Frame, and Out of Art into Storytelling. Both 

projects enabled teachers to explore the potential of using National Gallery 

paintings to inspire their pupils’ discussion and writing both inside and 

outside the classroom. Examples of oral storytelling, animation, creative 

writing and mixed-media artwork from a selection of the participating 

schools will be on show. An accompanying film is available on the 

gallery website. 

Every Sunday, families can enjoy free two-hour workshops at 11am for 

a journey through the collection bringing paintings alive, listen to a themed 

story on the magic carpet from 10.20am and 11.30am, and take a free 

family trail through the collection. 

Dance 

Act & Sing 

at Sydenham High School, 19 Westwood Hill, SE26 6BL 

Classes for boys & girls of all ages in Ballet, 

Tap, Modern, Jazz, Streetdance, Acrobatics, 

Singing & Drama 

Easter, Summer & Half Term Holiday Clubs! 

laurahunt@littlegemsdance.co.uk or 

0794 719 8881 

www.littlegemsdance.co.uk 

FAMILIES AT THE NPG 

NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY, St Martin’s Place WC2, 020 7306 0055, 

www.npg.org.uk/events 

Gallery open daily 10am-6pm, admission free. 

20 November, THE PIRATE PRINCE. As Prince Rupert lay in his cradle, he 

was showered with glittering gifts. Little did he know he would end up exiled 

and a pirate. Join the storytelling session then make your own pirate ship. 

10.30am and 1.30pm start, ages 3+, free. 

20 November, REGENCY GAMES. Find out which games children played 

200 years ago and make your own. A family art workshop suitable for ages 

5+ and carers. 11.30am and 2.30pm start, free: collect a ticket an hour 

before the event starts. effective, attractive 

design online 

their daring adventure across 

the high seas to an island 

where Captain Patch and his 

really, rough grown-up pirates 

are guarding their treasure... 

Puppets and song combine in this delightful adaptation of the much 

loved picture book by Peter Harris and Deborah Allwright. Ages 3-7. 

27 November, UPSTAIRS IN THE SKY. Two delivery people arrive with 

a box addressed to the audience - a make-it-yourself kit. Let your 

imagination reach for the sky as you help tell a tale. Ages 3-7. 

2 December - 2 January, SNOW PLAY. A delightful interactive show about 

playing in the snow, with the chance for the audience to get crafty and 

make a festive treat. Ages 2-7. 

THE GRUFFALO 

24 November - 16 January, GARRICK THEATRE, Charing Cross Road 

WC2H 0HH, 0844 412 4662, www.gruffalolive.com 

Follow the quick-thinking Mouse into the deep, dark wood in this 

magical and musical modern classic, based on the award-winning book 

by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Tall Stories Theatre Company’s 

production is an exuberant smash hit starring the Mouse, a 

wheeler-dealer Fox, eccentric old Owl, a maracca-shaking Snake and 

the very creature he imagined - the Gruffalo. Tickets from £12. 

DICK WHITTINGTON 

27 November - 8 January, LYRIC HAMMERSMITH THEATRE, 

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13

14 



The streets of Hammersmith will be paved with gold as traditional 

pantomime returns to the Lyric. Join Dick Whittington and his cat as 

they journey to find their fortune in a brand new show full of colourful 

characters, live music, laughter and the very evil King Rat. Ages 6+, 

tickets £10 under 16s, £10-25 adults, £50 families. 

CINDERELLA 

27 November - 30 January, COLOUR HOUSE THEATRE, 

Merton Abbey Mills, Merantun Way SW19, 020 8542 5511, 

www.colourhousetheatre.co.uk 

Poor old Cinders is desperate to go to the ball but those ugly sisters 

are having none of it! Will the fairy godmother help Cinders meet her 

handsome prince? Lots of fun and excitement in a great family show. 

Tickets £7 children, £9 adults. 

GET SANTA! 

1 December - 15 January, ROYAL COURT THEATRE, Sloane Square, 

London SW1W 8AS, 020 7565 5000, www.royalcourttheatre.com 

All Holly ever wanted from Santa was to meet her real dad for the first 

time. And every year, Santa failed to deliver, bringing lots of useless 

presents instead. This year she decided to wait up and trap Santa. 

A magical, musical and downright mischievous Christmas show with 

a fresh moral. Ages 7+, tickets from £8. 

POLKA FOR CHILDREN 

POLKA THEATRE, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19, 

020 8543 4888, www.polkatheatre.com 

19 November - 5 February, THE SNOW QUEEN. A brand new adaptation 

of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairy tale by Mike Kenny. Ages 6-11, 

tickets £8 children, £16 adults. 

HANDA’S SURPRISE 

20 November, TARA STUDIO, 356 Garratt Lane, London SW18, 

020 8333 4457, www.tara-arts.co. 

Travel to Kenya and follow in Handa’s footsteps as she journeys to 

see her best friend Akeyo in the next village. A blend of physical 

performance, puppetry, live music and song combine to create an 

intimate, magical production with audience participation. Ages 2-5, 

tickets £6.50 children, £7.50 adults. 

MY DAD’S A 

BIRDMAN 

25 November - 1 January, 

YOUNG VIC THEATRE, 66 The 

Cut, London SE1, 020 7922 

2922, www.youngvic.org 

An uplifting tale by David 

Almond, author of the Carnegie 

Medal Award-winning Skellig. 

The Great Human Bird 

Competition is coming to town, 

and Lizzie and Jackie have been 

building their nest and are 

preparing for take off. Will the 

At Tumbletots 

we endeavour to provide 

the opportunities, through a 

challenging environment of 

active physical play, for children to fully 

explore and develop their physical capability, especially 

their motor skills of balance, agility and co-ordination, 

whilst at the same time stimulating the imagination and 

having fun. Classes also include music, songs and rhymes, 

and are split into different age groups starting at six months 

up to 5 years. 

Information / bookings: 

for Dulwich, Blackheath, 

Battersea and Clapham 

Call Julia Forrest on 020 8464 4433 

or email julia.forrest1@ntlworld.com 

dynamic father and daughter 

duo get a chance to fly, or will sums, dumplings and 

headmasters get in their way? Ages 4-7. 

CINDERELLA 

25 November - 9 January, GREENWICH THEATRE SE10, 020 8858 

7755, www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk 

An all-singing, all dancing family spectacular. Tickets from £12. 

WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT 

30 November - 

18 December, CADOGAN HALL, 5 Sloane Square, Chelsea, 

0220 7730 4500, www.cadoganhall.com 

A vivid and noisy 

adaptation of Michael 

Rosen’s award-winning 

book. Join the intrepid 

adventurers on their 

quest to find a bear; as 

they 

wade through the gigantic 

swishy swashy 

grass, the splishy 

splashy river and the 

thick oozy, squelchy 

mud! Expect catchy 

songs, interactive 

scenes and plenty of 

hands-on 

adventure - plus a few 

special surprises. Ages 3+, tickets £10. 

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST 

1 December - 5 January, Cottesloe Theatre, NATIONAL THEATRE, 

South Bank SE1, 020 7452 3000, www.nationaltheatre.org.uk 

The enchanting and timeless fairytale, with music and magic. Ages 8+. 

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK 

4 December - 9 January, ORCHARD THEATRE, Home Gardens, Dartford 

Town Centre DA1 1ED, 01322 220000, www.orchardtheatre.co.uk 

Featuring the awesome Giant Blunderbore, the biggest giant in pantoland. 

THE DINOSAUR’S FIRST XMAS + 

THEATRE TOTS WORKSHOP 

17 December, St MICHAELS CHURCH, Blackheath SE3, 

0780 107 2776, www.theatretots.com 

Joe the time traveller has been given the job of dancing back in time to 

give the dinosaurs their first Christmas, and it turns out to be the best 

journey he ever made. A 30 minute puppet-based show followed by a 

30 minute workshop with three Theatre Tots leaders. 10am start, £10 

one child, £18 two siblings, book first. 

THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS 

7-24 December, AMBASSADORS THEATRE, West Street, 

Covent Garden WC2H 9ND, 08848 11 2334, 

www.theambassadorstheatre.co.uk 

A unique experience combining a live Christmas show with a 'grotto' 

experience where children can meet Father Christmas and receive 

a special gift. Tickets from £10, ages 2-7. 

PEPPA PIG’S PARTY 

2 December to 2 January, CRITERION THEATRE, Piccadilly Circus W1, 

08444 847 1778, www.peppapiglive.com 

Peppa is a playful little pig who lives with her little brother George, 

Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig. Through everyday adventures she plays 

games, makes new friends and enjoys her absolutely favourite activity - 

jumping up and down in muddy puddles. Peppa Pig’s Party recreates 

this highly popular television series for the stage, featuring beautifully 

true-to-life puppets, and takes place on a very special day. It is Peppa’s 

birthday and a chance for all her young friends to join in the fun, with 

Suzy Sheep, Danny Dog and Emily Elephant. This charming, original 

and imaginative show for pre-school children is full of brand new songs. 

Tickets £14.50 children, £17.50 adults. 

ALADDIN 

3 December - 9 January, CHURCHILL THEATRE, Bromley, 

0844 871 7620, www.ambassadortickets.com/bromley 

A big, funny panto starring Melinda Messenger, Don Gilet and Chris Till. 

The production has comedy, audience participation, spectacular sets, 

song and dance, action and special effects. 

RAIN DANCE 

4+5 December, RIVERSIDE STUDIOS, Crisp Road, Hammersmith 

W6 9RL, 020 8237 2010, www.riversidestudios.co.uk 

A crisis faces the animals of the African savannah. Their waterhole is 

almost dry and a leader is desperately needed to find a solution before 

they are wiped out. The witty and sometimes outrageous tale of animal 

rivalry is presented by W11 Opera for Young People with a cast of 

school-age singers. Entirely professionally produced, the performance 

is a stunningly unusual musical event. Ages 5+, tickets £15. 

UNICORN PRODUCTIONS 

UNICORN THEATRE, 147 Tooley Street, London SE1, 020 7645 0560, 

www.unicorntheatre.com 

4 December - 5 January, MOUSE IN THE HOLE. Meet the Mole family 

in their cosy, underground home, lined with straw and strewn with 

sweet-smelling herbs. This is a messy adventure for all the senses where 

everyone will be asked to muck in - so don’t wear your best outfit! Ages 

3-6, tickets £8 children, £10.50 adults, £30 families. 

4 December - 23 January, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. A new version of 

the classic story written by Phil Porter, with magic, music and moments 

to make your hair stand on end. Ages 7+, tickets £13 children, £19 

adults. 

CINDERELLA 

4 December - 3 January, FAIRFIELD, Park Lane, Croydon, 

020 8688 9291, www.fairfield.co.uk 

The classic happy ever after story, starring Gemma Bissix, Shirley Anne 

Field and Basil Brush. Lavish sets and costumes, great music, special 

effects, magical transformations, a splendid crystal coach and real white 

Shetland ponies make for an enchanting family treat. Tickets from £17. 

BEAUTY AND THE 

BEAST 

11 December - 3 January, BROADWAY 

THEATRE, Catford SE6, 020 8690 0002, 

www.broadwaytheatre.org.uk 

A brand new, magical and colourful 

production that promises to be an extra 

special family treat. With an actionpacked 

script, high energy dance set 

to modern music and plenty of comedy, 

this will be beast of a pantomime. 

Tickets from £12.50. 

HANSEL AND 

GRETEL 

16 December - 1 January, Queen Elizabeth Hall, SOUTHBANK 

CENTRE, SE1, 0844 875 0073, www.southbankcentre.co.uk 

Head down to the forest as Kneehigh Theatre leads you through a 

spellbinding world of wit and wonder, earthly delight and eerie woods. 

Tickets from £15. 

VOLE IN THE WOODS 

18-21 December, LONDON WETLAND CENTRE, Queen Elizabeth Walk, 

Barnes SW13 9WT, 020 8409 4400, www.wwt.org.uk/london 

Family fun with a wildlife-themed pantomime. 

ANASTASIA 

28 December - 8 January, NEW PLAYERS THEATRE, The Arches, Villiers 

Street WC2N 6NG, 020 7930 5868, www.newplayerstheeatre.com 

Join Dimitri, his outrageous mum Olga, the grand duchess - but beware 

of Rasputin! 

What will we discover 

Inside the story sock? 

What do you think is hiding? 

Come here and take a look... 

Story Sock is an original and exciting class 

where stories are explored and brought to life 

with characters, props and activities that 

educate, enrich and entertain. 

Dotty Socks - 2-3 years 

Stripy Socks - 3-4 years 

mixed Socks - 2-6 years 

Call Katy today to book your FREE introduction 

class in Blackheath or Greenwich 

We also offer children’s parties 

and workshops 

katy@storysock.co.uk | www.storysock.co.uk 

07957 136270 

families south east - november 2010 www.familiesse.co.uk

The Bookseller Crow 

is a fantastic, volume stuffed shop run by some of the most knowledgeable bookworms in the business. 

Call in for the feel of a real bookshop, or if you’re too busy, pick up the phone or point your mouse 

at their website for a fast mailorder service. Justine Crow recommends this month’s best titles. 

THIS YEAR I am being organised and am 

determined that the.. er.. short festive 

season of baubles and baby Jesus - 

I cannot say the C word or it is 50p in the 

swearbox - will not sneak up on me like 

some scary government minister with a 

boning knife. For that reason, the spent 

sparklers not yet cooled in their bucket, the 

rocket sticks still littering the lawn, I have already located the 

deckos - not bad considering I am still yet to find nine-tenths of our 

belongings including bikinis and picnic kit a full twelve months after 

moving - stuck festive labels on the jars of produce I coaxed out of 

the greenhouse (that’ll be sixteen jars of mouth exploding chillis in 

olive oil then for the family to look forward to - payback for the jars 

of jellied tripe my dad hilariously gave to all of us one famous year), 

stockpiled the charity cards and joined the queue for stamps in the 

post office. Who knows, I might get served before December. 

Meanwhile, as we all put our grandmas on eBay to pay for the coming weeks 

and henceforth, in efficient mood, I offer you some early gift suggestions in the 

run up without going all heavy on you with the much-missed Woolworths tastefree 

flashing lights (they will be in the next issue)... 

THE EXTRAORDINARY COOKBOOK by Stefan Gates - Kyle Cathie rrp £19.99. 

Yep. Same guy that brought you the mind-stretching telly thing on E numbers but 

it is as if the science did his head in after all that research and he ripped his 

clothes off and danced in the world’s naughtiest trifle instead. Where as the 

previous book was all facts and figures, this has luxurious gold endpapers and 

contains the most mischievously glamorous ingredients imaginable for the likes 

of Bloody Mary soup, barbecued oysters, flambéed lambchops and even 

chicken wrapped in gold leaf and when it comes to desserts, we are not talking 

own-brand Artic Roll. Alongside international dishes and quirky outdoorsy 

entertainments, it features food related whimsy such as vegetable instruments, 

interspersed with unusual ideas - one for the lads, cooking under the bonnet of 

your car (fire up the Aston Martin please dear) or, one for the gals, using your 

dishwasher to poach fish (then discard your dishwasher..). Boasting “meals your 

friends will never forget”, especially if you hand ‘em a hammer and a crab and a 

pair of snorkelling goggles, this doesn’t know whether it is a recipe book or a jolly 

activity manual for the easily bored. I do know that his Legendary Bum sandwich 

is not dissimilar to my own family’s famous bottom-cheek poached salmon 

(so-called after my sister’s wedding breakfast was sat upon, but served to the 

guests nonetheless). And judging by the photos, a lot more fun was had in the 

making of this foody frolic than in the analysis of carbonates and stabilisers that 

go into what we eat. Stuff that up your spending review! 

LONDON LIGHT by Sandra Lousada - Frances Lincoln rrp £25. Still in grown-up 

territory (no really, we were), this is a sumptuous, if sober, depiction of light on our 

city’s contours. It is an unusual photographic approach that makes a change from 

the standard coffee-tabley aerial shots or vintage slides and banal London 

souvenir guides featuring post boxes and phone boxes. 

BEST IN SHOW Knit Your Own Dog by Sally Muir & Joanna Osborne - Collins & 

Brown rrp £12.99. These are the kind of dogs I like. Knitted and cuddly and each 

breed spookily similar to the real thing, only you don’t have to take them out to the 

park and pick up their twirlies in a placcy bag on freezing mornings. Accompany 

imaginatively with a pair of knitting needles and 

a ball of it itchy wool and they can fetch their 

own present again and again. 

TODDLER MANUAL - Haynes rrp £9.99. 

A paperback edition of the series inspired by 

the car mechanic’s canon will be appreciated by 

anyone in possession of at least one or two of 

these particular types of run-arounds. 

And it complements the SECOND BABY 

SURVIVAL GUIDE, Naia Edwards, Rodale, 

rrp £10.99, with everything that’s been 

forgotten after the first time (it’s how the 

brain is wired to maintain procreation, 

honey) as well as stuff that people forget 

to warn you about, like those horrendous 

post-partum contractions of the uterus 

that are characteristic of second and 

subsequent births days and days after the 

event; plus extra advice on dealing 

with an older sibling’s insecurity, 

that in my experience was often 

and still is, manifestly murderous. 

CHILD by Desmond Morris, 

Hamlyn, rrp £25, explores how 

the little critters emerge from 

toddlerdom and “start on the long 

road to independence” - that 

reaches near culmination with the proclamation by our 

sixteen year old that she is going to New York on a university 

fact finding mission, on the same day that George Osborne 

announced a return to Dickensian scroogery (ask him if he’ll 

lend you the airfare out of his inherited fortune, I replied). 

THE GIFT by Carol Ann Duffy - Barefoot Books rrp £10.99. 

Decorated with silhouette cut-outs by flavour of the moment 

Rob Ryan, this gorgeous book about growing up and 

growing on and growing old brought a tear to my eye. Though that could be the 

smoke from the bonfire of our hopes for the future. 

THE CAT THAT WALKED BY HIMSELF & OTHER STORIES by Rudyard 

Kipling - British Library rrp £7.95. This splendid selection from the Just So Stories 

is only everso slightly lets itself down by being smaller - it seems that a grander 

scale would do the elegant illustrations greater justice. But it’s still lovely, just so. 

INTERIOR DESIGNER DOODLES by Nellie Ryan - Buster Books rrp £9.99. An 

ideal gift for an arty kid, so long as they don’t actually draw on real furniture. 

MONKEY NUTS, The Diamond Egg of Wonders by the Etherington Brothers - 

David Fickling Books rrp £9.99. Once upon a time there was a brilliant comic 

collection published regularly in packs called The DFC Library, loved by big 

and small - my boy has carefully stored all the back issues passed on to him 

by an adult fan. The DFC no longer exists in old fashioned stapled form but the 

contributors continue in joyous print in these delicious smelling (the sign of 

quality! In books that is, not the homeless) cartoon albums. The stream of 

chortles from the aforementioned boy as he followed the bonkers adventures 

of Sid, Rivet and Chief Tuft long after lights off was a pleasure. 

Another in the DFC series, VERN & LETTUCE by Sarah McIntyre, rrp £9.99 

follows the slightly less frantic though utterly charming weekly exploits of a 

sheep and a rabbit whose neighbourhood of Pickle Rye Park and surrounding 

landmarks might just be familiar to you. Picture herbivorous Del Boy and 

Rodders, with cute ears. 

RICHARD SCARRY’S BUSIEST POP-UP EVER! - Golden Books rrps £12.99. 

I wasn’t going to include this because I don’t want anyone else to have it but to 

deny you such happiness crafted out of sublime simplicity in times like these 

would be pure cruelty. Can I be first to nominate Mister Frumble for mayor of 

London? We’d have a lot more fun than with BoJo or Ken. 

Keep your eyes peeled for more genius Scarry coming soon as Sterling are 

putting a load more out next year. Meanwhile, next month’s page will have a lot 

more picture books on it for your festive delectation. 

1001 WAYS TO RELAX by Mike George - Watkins rrp £9.99. As a title, I can’t 

think of anything more beguiling or imperative in these times either. But does it 

live up to its promise? Number 181 says rather sweetly, ‘See life as a journey’ (as 

opposed to an endless shopping list) and another suggests, ‘celebrate wrinkles’ 

(okay, but how? with balloons?). The antidote to 

being hot and bothered by dripping cold water 

on the wrists was obviously not designed for a 

swimming teacher like me in the middle of winter 

with a class of six year old hooligans and number 

690, ‘lend your car to someone’, is a gesture I don’t 

think Him Indoors will be making in order to reduce 

his blood pressure. But I am willing to give 327, 

‘meditate on the migration of birds’ a chance. I 

could stand in front of the window 

for hours. In fact, for the benefit of 

scientific research, I am willing to 

give 1001 ways a try. Can I get 

started now? Only trouble is, you 

may have to wake me up in time 

Christmas - drat! There goes 50p 

again.... 

The Bookseller Crow, 50 Westow St. Crystal Palace, London SE19 3AF 

Telephone: 020 8771 8831 email: info@booksellercrow.co.uk www.booksellercrow.co.uk 



16 

education news 

Thames Christian College 

- a local success story 

JUST A FEW minutes’ walk from Clapham Junction, 

Thames Christian College caters for pupils of mixed 

ability, cultures and backgrounds. An independent 

secondary school, it started in September 2000 with 

12 children and today teaches around 120 children 

aged 11 to 16 years (GCSE level). David Shaw has 

been finding out more... 

Background 

Eleven years ago, Dr Stephen Holsgrove, director 

of an IT company and his wife Catherine - chair of 

the governors at Dolphin Primary School - decided 

that their own children were not suited to existing 

high-achieving private schools. Nor, as quiet, polite 

children, were they best suited to inner-city 

comprehensives. 

They got together with Sue Rogers - who was 

head of Dolphin at the time - and her husband Tim, 

a respected head teacher, and set up their own 

school. With a budget of £12,000. 

Since September 2000, the school has grown 

almost every year. Dr Holsgrove said he hopes to 

increase pupil numbers to 250 children over a 

three- to five-year period, bringing in a sixth form 

as well as more subjects. 

As a relatively new school, set up by parents, 

Thames is specifically designed to produce an 

education ‘fit for purpose’ . This underlying principle 

involves people and values not just equipment and 

sports fields. The school puts its continued growth 

during the recession down to listening to the needs 

of parents and pupils, and providing an education 

and safe environment that parents value above 

almost anything. 

Ethos 

If the school could be summed up in a single word, 

that word would be respect. The teachers have 

respect for the children and the children respect 

their teachers. Equally, the staff and management 

listen respectfully to the opinions of the parents. If 

something is wrong, they do their very best to make 

it better. 

There are very clear, non-negotiable behavioural 

boundaries within the school, but above all, the staff 

honestly and seriously believe that each and every 

child is valued and they strive to help the children 

solve problems, overcome difficulties and prepare 

them for life in a 21st century world. 

Class sizes vary from 20 or so in the first two 

years, down to 15 or below at GCSE level, where 

the students are divided into two groups. The 

Fabulous fun-filled music 

classes and parties 

for babies and young children. 

Action songs and rhymes accompanied by 

guitar. Props, posters, stories, percussion, 

bubbles and more! Stimulating, educational, 

interactive and fun, great for building 

confidence and social skills. The highlight 

of your child’s week – as well as yours! 

Classes on Mondays in Herne Hill, 

Tuesdays in Dulwich Village and 

Thursdays in East Dulwich. FREE TRIAL 

020 8670 0644 www.tinpanannie.co.uk 


children are of mixed background and mixed ability 

- including gifted and talented and a few who have 

learning difficulties such as dyslexia. 

Thames Christian College is set up 

to meet the needs of all these children, 

as well as those closer to the average. 

Each child has their own set of 

targets and the teachers get to know 

each child individually to help them meet 

their targets. Where support is needed, it 

is provided by the substantial learning 

support team. Where children are bright, 

the teachers extend and broaden the subject matter, 

to teach beyond the confines of the curriculum. The 

whole environment is designed to make sure each 

child is stretched and supported to bring out their 

very best. 

‘Outstanding features’ - 

Ofsted 

In May 2010, Ofsted rated every aspect of the 

school’s provision as good, with some outstanding 

features. This inspection was under the new, stricter 

guidelines, introduced in November 2009. 

In particular, pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and 

cultural development and their behaviour were both 

rated as outstanding. 

On the day Families visited, the school was 

marking ten years since it was set up. For a change, 

the children had swapped their black blazers for 

their idea of the clothes they might be wearing in 

ten years’ time. 

Successful students 

This summer’s GCSE students celebrated their 

outstanding results with 71% of students attaining 

A* - B grades and 83% attaining five A*-C grades 

(including English and maths), carrying on the 

tradition of pupils outperforming their predicted 

grades year on year. Stephen Holsgrove 

commented: “.. It was lovely to see lots of smiling 

faces upon opening the dreaded brown envelopes.” 

Values are important 

The founders share a deeply-held view that every 

child is created in God’s own image and they encourage 

the staff to help the children reach their full 

potential. The school teaches Christian values, and 

assemblies often have a Christian focus, but the 

school is happy to take children from other faiths 

provided they support the school’s ethos. 

Stephen said, “We prefer 

to teach our children within 

a framework of religious belief 

as it gives them a sense of 

purpose.” 

The main entry 

requirement, he said, is a 

desire to be at the school and 

to work within the existing 

framework of mutual 

respect with the aim of benefitting 

from the best 

education. Stephen said the 

children who do best are 

those “who are prepared to 

be helped and want to be 

stretched. It does not matter if 

they are very gifted, because 

we will stretch them, or if they 

are someone who finds school more of a challenge, 

because we will support them.” He added, “We are 

looking for children with the right behaviour and 

attitude.” and continued, “We have very high 

expectations of behaviour.” He explained that if 

teachers can put all their effort into teaching, rather 

than dealing with discipline issues, they can attend 

to the children’s needs and provide education 

tailored to each specific child. 

Staff work in the real 

world 

The school has around 25 staff, some of whom split 

their time between real-world business activities and 

teaching, coming into the school for a few days 

each week. 

This, said Stephen, ensures that the teachers 

are actively engaged in the real world, and can 

teach the skills needed to succeed there, as well 

as the more basic educational requirements of the 

curriculum. He said, “What I want to do is create 

a model of a school which is fit for purpose for the 

next ten years and beyond.” That means having 

a business model that works, as well as helping 

every child to learn about personal finance, getting 

them qualifications in use of computers and a range 

of other practical skills, all built around a positive, 

caring and empathetic ethos.” Stephen concludes: 

“We believe almost every child is good at something 

and we take time to draw out their unique potential.” 

No catchment 

boundaries 

The all-inclusive fees are kept relatively low in order 

to allow a diverse range of children at the school. 

Stephen said he sees the multi-cultural nature of 

the school as a strength: the school population 

reflects the multi-ethnic population of London. 

“The world these children are growing up in is more 

multi-cultural than ever before and they are going 

to have to relate internationally far more than we 

ever did.” 

While the school is currently almost full, there a 

re plans to expand. Anyone who can get to 

Clapham Junction can get to the school - for 

example students can travel from the southeast via 

the London Bridge to Victoria loop, or with a change 

at Waterloo East. Others travel in from north and 

west London, Surrey and the Croydon area. 

More information 

Thames Christian College is in Wye Street, London 

SW11 2HB. All inclusive fees are kept relatively 

low - below £10k per year. For enrolment and fee 

details, call 020 7228 3933 or go to 

www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk. 


education news 

The yellow woods challenge 

Nursery, pre-school, primary and special schools throughout the 

UK are learning more about the environment and recycling with 

the help of the Yellow Woods Challenge. 

The award winning eco-educational initiative, run by Yell, 

provides curriculumñlinked teaching resources including videos, 

lesson plans and interactive whiteboard materials, plus monthly 

e-newsletters with topical eco-ideas and activities. Schools can 

also win educational Woodland Trust prizes and up to £500 in 

cash by taking part in Kirk’s Recycling Competition by recycling 

old Yellow Pages directories. 

Schools can find out more and sign up to take part at 

www.yellow-woods.org.uk. 

‘Bog standard’ award for 

schools 

A recent survey of 160 UK schools and school and specialist 

nurses has resulted in a universal call for minimum standards 

for school toilet facilities. School toilets are often neglected 

due to lack of funding, inadequate regulations and simply 

because other priorities get in the way. But they affect pupils’ 

education and their health. 

Launching a new Bog Standard award, campaign manager 

Nickie Brander explained, “The School Toilet Award aims to 

flush out the bad toilets and recognise the good. Recent 

research indicates that 40% of secondary school pupils think 

their school toilets too disgusting to use and 38% of girls won’t use their school toilets. Bog Standard aims to 

encourage and support schools to make all school toilets meet the needs of pupils.” 

Schools which take care to ensure that their toilets are cleaned properly, well stocked and in good working 

order, are being encouraged to enter. All successful schools will receive an Award certificate and use of the 

award logo on marketing materials. Run by the national charity ERIC (Education and Resources for Improving 

Childhood Continence), the award hopes to help the school gain recognition from parents and their local 

community for their efforts. Schools can enter by completing a self assessment form along with a pupil’s 

questionnaire on www.bog-standard.org. 

Calm, confident children 

According to research earlier this year by The Telegraph, more than 40,000 four 

to seven year-olds were expelled from school last year. The reasons ranged 

from bullying to violence, damaging equipment to tantrums and 

outbursts. 

You may wonder, at such a young age, what have children got to be so angry 

about? Perhaps York University figured it out in 2009 when they discovered that 

some young children feel pressured by exams and peer relationships. 

Relax Kids have a strong belief in encouraging children to recognise their 

individuality and embrace their strengths. They are a good source of ideas 

to help children be calm and confident: 

We can all help our children manage their anxieties in a number of different 

ways. Some may wish to share their stresses through talking; others may 

prefer to write it down. Whichever way, strong emotions are better out than in 

and managed productively, rather than coming out as antisocial behaviour. 

Why not introduce a ‘positive diary’ where they can write down - or draw - the 

good things that happened that day? Choosing to record them in a book gives 

your child a reminder of all the good things that have happened recently. They 

will quickly learn that some days are better than others. You could also try 

including regular chillout time into your child’s schedule. 

Do whatever fits you and your lifestyle. It could be anything from a brisk walk 

outside to baking a cake or watching a DVD. Have regular pyjama days and 

turn off your phones (obviously not on a school day). The more relaxed your 

household is, the more likely your children will be to approach you if they have 

any worries. 

Another effective way to get your child thinking positively is to give them statements about themselves to take 

with them that day. It could be as simple as suggesting that they repeat to themselves “I am unique” or offering 

them an activity to keep their focus throughout the day, “Today I will beÖ as calm as a cat“. Be creative. 

Offer complements. A steady supply of praise not only encourages good behaviour but helps people cope 

with the various challenges that life sends their way. If you have a positive, happy attitude, your children will 

develop a respectful attitude to you and other adults who behave in the same way, so keep setting a good 

example. Try “The way you (remembered all your games kit today) was wonderful” and “I noticed how well you 

were (playing with your little brother)” as examples. 

So many of us make the assumption that our children and other people in our lives ‘know’ when we think 

they did something well, but how much better to tell them. A complement can really make anyone’s day and 

strengthen their mental health, so there is less need for the tantrums and mood swings. 

Read more: Relax Kids have created a range of relaxation CDs, books and DVDs to help keep kids calm 

and confident through chaotic times. Visit www.relaxkids.com for more information, activities and exercises 

to try in your home. 


Alice Rogers BA Hons MSc Ed Psy MSc Syst Psych 

HPC Registered / BPS Chartered Educational Psychologist 

Assessments and Advice for children 

and students experiencing school 

difficulties / Special Educational 

Needs including dyslexia and dyspraxia 

0781 513 8501 / alicerogers5@hotmail.com 

Tennis-4-kids 

Rally round for a smashing time! 

Tennis-4-kids 

a fun filled introduction to tennis for 2 -11 year olds. 

Played indoors with small rackets, sponge balls and 

scaled-down court. 

Tennis-4-kids 

aids agility, co-ordination and balance. 

A positive introduction to tennis with lots of fun 

Weekend and 

weekday 

sessions 

now available 

Educational 

Psychology 

Services 

For further details 

ring Gordon on 

07877 391005 

or www.tennis-4-kids.com 

or email gordon@tennis-4-kids.com 


18 

family life 

What’sNew 

useful products & services 

you and your baby 

Talk to a midwife 

Baby charity Tommy’s is launching a freephone 

pregnancy information line, staffed by qualified midwives. 

The helpline has been set up to focus on three 

specific areas: 

1. providing emotional and bereavement counselling 

support for women whom have suffered 

a pregnancy loss or complication through premature 

birth, miscarriage or stillbirth 

2. advice on how best to plan for a baby following 

a complication 

3. lifestyle advice for women most at risk of pregnancy 

health problems due to smoking, stress, 

poor diet and obesity. 

Jacqui Clinton, Health Campaigns Manager at 

Tommy’s, told us: “Tommy’s information line has 

always provided vital support for many mums-to-be, 

however with the PregnancyLine we can now 

specifically help women who have suffered 

pregnancy complications in the past and want to try 

for another baby, or need guidance in terms of 

healthy lifestyle choices. Furthermore, women who 

have lost a baby can turn to us for both emotional 

and practical support, from the comfort of their 

own home.” 

An Asda Foundation grant has funded the 

training programme and the new free phone n 

umber. 

PregnancyLine is open from 9am to 5pm on 

weekdays, 0800 0174 800, with more information 

at www.tommys.org. 


PO.P’s top hand-me-downs 

Polarn O. Pyret clothes are made to last. The quality fabrics are thoroughly 

tested to ensure they last for more than one child. 

In October, Polarn O. Pyret launched a ‘Hand it Down’ campaign and 

invited shoppers to donate outgrown Polarn O. Pyret clothing to any of their 

large stores, in exchange for a voucher worth 10% off a new product of their 

choice. 

The collected garments are on sale until 14 November in special Hand it 

Down sections of the six solus childrenswear stores. Prices range from 

£2.50 for a t-shirt to £20 for a snowsuit - while stocks last! Meanwhile, all 

proceeds from the Hand it Down sale rails will be donated to the children’s 

development organisation Plan International UK, one of largest children’s 

development organisations in the world, helping children and their families 

in 48 of the poorest countries to break the cycle of poverty. 

Participating Polarn O. Pyret stores include those at Brent Cross shopping 

centre, Westfield in London and Windsor, the Bentall Centre in Kingston. 

Check out the website www.polarnopyret.com. 

Free online ‘baby clues’ 

game 

In the last decade, findings from neuroscience 

show that the earliest relationships shape the 

baby’s nervous system and the development of the 

brain. 

Babies can’t talk but they can communicate, and 

being able to ‘read’ the clues babies are giving is 

part of building a strong relationship with them. 

Baby Clues is an interactive online game that has 

been launched to help expectant mothers and fathers 

understand the gestures, movements and expressions 

that babies make from birth to indicate 

their needs. At the heart of the game is sound, nurturing 

know-how as Evie, the cartoon baby, invites 

parents to take a few minutes to get to know her. 

Together with Evie’s feedback and video content 

showing a real baby, parents can work out their own 

baby’s unique way of communicating with them. 

The game also challenges couples in a lighthearted 

and engaging way to answer questions 

about each other, to underline the importance of 

communication between couples before and after a 

baby’s birth. 

Baby Clues has been developed by charity One 

Plus One, the UK’s leading relationship research organisation, 

which offers parents and couples ‘do-ityourself’ 

relationship support with articles, courses, 

exercises and a popular problem/ solution sharing 

forum. Log on to www.thecoupleconnection.net to 

play and find out more. 

Young vegetarians 

Cooking vegetarian meals can be simple and tasty, 

and a colourful new 

recipe booklet provides 

23 step-by-step recipes, 

many of which were 

invented by young 

vegetarians and 

vegans. 

With a copy of Viva! 

Kids Cook Veggie, 

budding cooks can 

have fun rustling up a 

whole variety of meals 

including bean 

burgers; fishless fish and 

chips with tartar sauce; chilli non carne; pizza; 

sausage and pasta salad and more. Sweet things 

include colourful cookies, carrot cake, pancakes 

and a big birthday cake. 

Editor Helen Rossiter, says: “It’s never been 

easier to cook your favourite meals veggie, as our 

new guide shows. If you want to encourage your 

family to eat more healthily and ethically, this is a 

great place to start.” 

Viva! Kids’ Cook Veggie is £1.90 plus p+p by 

calling 0117 944 1000 and online at 

www.viva.org.uk/vivashop. 

WIN WIN WIN! 

Win a high definition 

pocket video camera 

with Metanium 

From birth to one year, babies change and grow 

rapidly. It’s a time when you don’t want to miss a 

single moment or spend time worrying about 

nappy rash. 

Metanium Nappy Rash Ointment is licensed 

specifically to treat nappy rash. Its unique, gentle 

formula allows the skin to ‘breathe’ while protecting 

it from further irritation. Metanium should be used at 

the very first signs of nappy rash to help bring rapid 

and soothing relief from itching and chafing. Only a 

pea sized amount of Metanium is needed to treat 

the sore areas and it can be used from birth onwards. 

For useful information on managing nappy 

rash, go to www.metanium.co.uk. 

Metanium 30g costs around £3.49 from most 

pharmacies and online at www.boots.com. Always 

read the label. 

Metanium are offering one lucky Families reader 

the chance to win a pocket sized, high definition 

video camera (worth around £149) to capture all 

those magic moments. Ten runners up will each 

receive a Metanium Busy Baby Wall Planner 

worth £9.99 so you can keep track of your busy 

week. 

Enter the competition online at 

www.familiesse.co.uk, or post your name and 

address to ‘Metanium Prize Draw’, Families 

South East, PO Box 11591, London SE26 6WB 

by the 1 December closing date. 


Single parents: you’re brilliant 

One in four families 

in the UK is now 

headed by a single 

parent. Many single 

parents tell the 

Gingerbread 

charity that they 

are fed up with 

attitudes that 

cast them as 

scroungers if they 

do not have a job, 

or as bad parents - 

when the evidence 

shows most do a good job of bringing up their children. Six out of ten 

single parents are already managing to juggle a job with bringing up their children, 

and most of those on benefits are keen to work but can’t find jobs that fit with 

school times, or can’t find childcare. 

As part of their new ‘You’re Brilliant’ campaign, Gingerbread has launched a new 

website providing expert help and information including vital money-saving tips, 

job-search advice and support with sorting out issues around separation. Centred 

around a forum for single parents, the website enables single parents to share 

information and support each other. Gingerbread’s free online membership 

provides access to a range of member benefits and discounts, all on 

www.gingerbread.org.uk. There is also a free Single Parent Helpline on 

0808 802 0925, available from 9am-5pm Mondays to Fridays, with late opening 

on Wednesdays until 8pm. 

Win a family ticket to winter wonderland 

After a phenomenal 2009 

season which saw a 

staggering two million visitors, 

Winter Wonderland offers an 

amazing Christmas day out, 

with beautifully decorated 

attractions set out across 20 

acres of historic parkland right 

in the heart of the capital. 

Hyde Park Winter 

Wonderland will once again 

feature London’s biggest 

outdoor ice-rink, the iconic 

Giant Observation Wheel, 

new and exciting rollercoaster 

rides, the Angel’s Christmas 

market, Santa Land for kids, 

and free admission. For more details, see our What’s On pages. 

We have a family of 4 ticket for one lucky reader. This is valid for the launch 

evening of 18 November and includes passes for all the rides and attractions. 

Enter online at www.familiesse.co.uk, or post your name, address, a phone 

number and email address to ‘Winter Wonderland Competition’, Families South 

East, PO Box 11591, London SE26 6WB by Friday 13 November. 

Win a Menus4Mums membership 

Menus4Mums is a fabulous online meal planning service for busy parents. Members 

get a new menu plan each week for 

dinners the whole family will enjoy, 

with recipe cards and a super-handy 

shopping list broken down into 

supermarket aisles. The meals take 

advantage of supermarket special 

offers to keep grocery bills down. All 

this from £6.95 for four weeks, with 

gift vouchers available for six or 12 

months’ membership. Visit 

www.menus4mums.co.uk for more 

information and to download a free 

one week sample menu plan. 

Menus4Mums are offering one lucky Families reader the chance to win a six 

month gift voucher, and three runners-up can win four week memberships. 

Enter the competition online at www.familiesse.co.uk, or send your name, 

address and an email address to ‘Menus4Mums Prize Draw’, Families South 

East, PO Box 11591, London SE26 6WB by the Wednesday 1 December 

closing date. 


Great competitions on 

www.familiesonline.co.uk! 

Win one of four Animatazz movie-making kits 

providing youngsters 

with tons of 

long-lasting, 

ultra-creative fun! 

(rrp £24.99, for 

ages 8 to adult) . 

Four lucky readers will 

win KLOO®, a new and 

unique game set to take 

the language world by 

storm! (priced at £12.99 

per deck) 

To enter go to 

www.familiesonline.co.uk/Competitions 


19

20 

FAMILY & HOME SERVICES 

J.Schmitd 

JOINERY & DECORATION 

Wardrobes, Bookcases, 

Cupboards, Flooring, Decking 

and general carpentry. 

11 years of experience, 

with good references 

Contact Jose for a free estimate 

0751 542 1770 

www.jschmitdjoinery.co.uk 

WINDOW CLEANER 

A reliable, professional service for 

houses and businesses. 

One-offs or regular visits. 

All areas covered. 

Call Ian 07920 179 345 

Handyman 

For all your household repairs and odd jobs. 

I offer a professional and courteous service 

www.shaunthehandyman.co.uk 

020 8249 3264 or 07913 656 502 

HOME CLEANING SERVICE 

Reliable,trustworthy,good rates 

Call 07960 476 583 or 020 8265 1745 

BE NOTICED 

with an advertisement in Families 

HEALTH & COUNSELLING 

SENSITIVE COUNSELLING 

for the problems that make 

you unhappy 

Mark Arram MBACP 

0794 797 2918 

mtarram@yahoo.co.uk 

Postnatal Mum & 

Baby Classes 

Fun Fitness Classes 

for all 

1-1 Personal Training 

www.fitnessformummies.co.uk 

CBT HYPNOTHERAPY 

Rediscover more control in your life 

Andrew Cunningham SQHP GHR 

07903 556382 

www.hypnotherapyinlondon.co.uk 

Counselling 

Individuals and Couples 

Helen Storey MBACP 

020 8699 1652 

WISH YOU WERE HERE? 

If you run a local business, tell people 

about it in Families South East. 

An ad in Families costs less than you 

think, and reaches up to 40,000 

local parents with every issue. 

Call 020 8699 7240 or 

email info@familiesse.co.uk 

for free, friendly advice 


Professional and friendly accountants providing 

book-keeping, tax and accounting services for 

small & medium sized businesses. 

FREE CONSULTATION ON 

Contact Beverley Walker 

07970 628 466 

Email: bwalker@tallhorse.co.uk 

www.tallhorse.co.uk 

Since 1985 introducing vetted 

GENUINE NANNIES 

Agency fee £50 to max £300 

BABYSITTERS agency fee £21 

020 8650 3232 

www.littlemastersandmisses.com 

Looking for a new career? 

International company is 

looking for ambitious and 

self-motivated people to work 

part time and from home. 

Call Dorothy to find out more 

0203 393 9716 

PAINTING & 

DECORATING 

Interior / Exterior 

Experienced, Reliable, Clean 

Fully Guaranteed / Insured 

FREE ADVICE AND QUOTE 

John:- James & Lamont 

020 8462 4646 - 07802 535695 

THE VALE PRACTICE 

Structural & Cranial 

Osteopathy – Acupuncture 

Specialising in the treatment of 

children and expectant mothers. 

T. 020 8299 9798 

www.thevalepractice.co.uk 

GIFT VOUCHERS FOR XMAS? 

Advertise yours in Families 

Families online 

CLASSES & 

TUTORS 

Families South East 

PO Box 11591 London SE26 6WB 

Tel: 020 8699 7240 

Email: info@familiesse.co.uk 

Contact: Robina Cowan 

For back issues and more articles than we 

can squeeze into each issue, a directory of 

local companies, competitions and forums 

plus the latest What'sOn listings, join us at 


Tutoring from Experienced Teacher 

Chemistry and Physics 

Individuals or groups welcome 

Telephone Maria on 0796 006 9155 

Subscribe to Families 

To receive your copy by post, 

send £18 with your name and 

address and we’ll send the next 

10 issues straight to your door 

PARTIES 

Alhambra 

Children’s Parties 

T-shirt painting, bracelet-making, 

mosaic-workshop, games and simple 

party food for up to eight in our charming 

tearoom and garden. Other activities 

on request. We can also bake a delicious 

novelty birthday cake. 

Please call Becca or Julia 

on 020-3417 6385 


Adult & Children’s Entertainer 

Magic, Plate Spinning 

Balloon Modelling 

Interactive Games 

Karaoke, Mini Disco 

Tel: 020 8480 8176 

www.amigosmagic.co.uk 

YOUR CHILD deserves the 

best, while YOU take a rest 

PARTIES 

TO REMEMBER 

Traditional fun, planned with you & 

your child, food & pinatas optional 

Age 3 to 12yrs 

020 7249 3242 

www.partiestoremember.co.uk 

Next issue out 10 December 2010 

Christmas & 

New Year Fun 

Local shopping, 

holiday courses and 

festive events 

PLUS family life, local 

companies and news 

- advertise yours in 

Families 

Call or email us now! 


DESIGN: Lancasters 020 8658 9975 www.lancasters.co.uk Printed on paper from sustainable forests. www.russellpress.com

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