h&f buzz (january 2013)

CONTINUED ON pagES 4&5

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Prince Andrew is the guest of honour as Fulham’s studio school – one of the country’s first – ushers in a whole new style of teaching for teenagers

T HE first of a new breed of London schools combining classwork with hands-on skills training has opened

in Fulham.Aimed at boys and girls aged 14 to 19,

Fulham Enterprise Studio is sited alongside Fulham College Boys’ School in Kingwood Road, off Fulham Palace Road, sharing some buildings.

The Duke of York performed the official opening, touring the studio and chatting to

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BUZZ 1.2013It’s amazing to see your name in a newspaper!

3

WELCOME to the sixth edition of h&f buzz. This

one is special for me as it’s my first time writing as the Youth Editor, and I am thrilled to have been given the opportunity.

I have attended the local Young Reporters’ meetings for about a year now and have written a couple of articles which have been printed in h&f buzz.

When you see your article and name in print it is amazing to think all your hard work has been noticed. There is a lot of preparation to create each edition of h&f buzz, involving meetings where articles and ideas are discussed.

You can learn more about the whole process from the feature in this issue by Darnell Christie, who was the Youth Editor for the first issue in September 2011.

As Darnell says, each h&f buzz represents hours of writing and research, with one of the editor’s jobs being to keep a good balance between news, features and sport.

He quite rightly recommends joining the Young Reporters’ group if you are interested in any kind of journalism.

The meetings that we have are interesting and fun. I hope to see some of you at the gatherings we will hold this year.

If you want to find out more, just get in touch using the details printed below on the left.

We also have a picture special showing the machines which are used to print each copy of h&f buzz.

This month we’ve also got news about changes to the exam system. We ask if children still enjoy reading books in the age of the

By Archie ScottYouth Editor January 2013

inside your

internet, and we’re sharing the story about the talented performers at the Sulgrave Club in Shepherds Bush who put on a showcase concert every year.

Fulham Palace has a new education centre – in the old stable block – and you can read all about it in this issue.

There is information on half-term fun at the Lyric Theatre in Hammersmith, with favourite book characters coming to life.

But most amazing is the story of how young people from Hammersmith & Fulham took over the town hall, working with heads of department to have a go at running the borough.

I hope you enjoy this edition covering everything of interest for young people from October to now. We don’t miss a thing!

HajarRagab

young reporters

...and many thanks to all of the young people

who helped with this edition including

Darnell Christie, Zakaria Arif, Leila Chentouf,

Javan Rose, Laura Ramnath, Basak Erten,

Jack Duggan, Sarah Duggan & Maria Ortega

Want to write for us?Email: youth_involvement @lbhf.gov.uk or call 020 8753 6232

20% off toys & kid’s books! SEE PAGE 10

Heba Kusseibati

FrancescaScott

NadaMontague

HananFaisal

Beatrice Warren

Visit us at: www.lbhf.gov.uk/youthinvolvedfacebook

What’s going on in your borough?

Talk to decision makers - Have your say!

4

BUZZ 1.2013

staff and students. Fulham Enterprise Studio is trailblazing a new style of teaching for teenagers, combining the national curriculum with practical training which is targeted at giving students the kind of skills employers crave.

There are 60 students initially, but the eventual aim is to reach 300 over the next five years.

Prince Andrew was told how the studio worked in partnership with companies in Hammersmith & Fulham borough to ensure skills training is relevant and focused.

The enterprise studio’s main specialist fields are performing arts production and construction.

As well as studying for GCSEs, BTECs and A Levels, students join companies for up to two days a week to get real work experience. Each student has the support of a personal coach.

There are now 16 studios around the country, with Fulham the first in the capital. That number is expected to double by September, and the aim is to eventually have up to 200 studio schools in England.

Prince Andrew was led around by David Frost and David Nicoll of the Studio Schools Trust, and also met Andrew Christie, director of children’s services at Hammersmith & Fulham.

Bernie Peploe, studio principal, highlighted the importance of personal coaches, who ‘bring a nurturing aspect to what is a challenging and businesslike environment’.

David Frost, a past director general of the British Chambers of Commerce, told Prince Andrew that the idea for studio schools had come from businesses’ frustration about the quality of young jobseekers.

“What they really meant is about employability skills; understanding about working as a team, having the ability to communicate, and essentially being enterprising in the job,” he said. “What studio schools have done is actually deliver that in what is a very difficult economic time.”

Declaring the studio open, Prince Andrew said: “Young people need a great deal of opportunity, but they also need inspiration; they need to be encouraged to aspire to be better than they thought they could be.

“Talking to some of the students and businesses here, the relationships between

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

VISIT: Feysal Omar Saalah chats with the Duke of York at Fulham Enterprise Studio. Below, Prince Andrew gets a computer lesson from Danae McGregor. Far right, Omar Ibrahim and Ashaurne Simpson White get royal ICT approval

5

BUZZ 1.2013

‘‘

The Duke of York pays a visit to the bustling new Fulham Enterprise Studio

the students, staff, businesses and their parents are important.

“But, young people have to realise that in order to be successful they have to have skills, and it is not only about using their hands, but also their mind.

“The workplace of the 21st Century is going to require greater flexibility and greater awareness of the use of hands, skills and mind, and studio schools are going to give young people the opportunity to have that choice.”

Turning to the students, he told them: “Don’t forget that this school is here to challenge you, it is here to encourage you to learn and you are here because you are already motivated.

“I hope you will grapple with and grasp and tackle the challenges that you have and will be given.”

The Duke of York also praised the school’s employer partners for ‘making a difference to the students that are here’.

Five years in the planning, the new breed of skills schools is aimed at youngsters who thrive on hands-on learning, rather than traditional teaching methods.

Part of the vision is to increase parental choice, bringing a new kind of secondary school to the borough and offering benefits to the wider community.

Employer partners for Fulham Enterprise Studio include Age UK, Agilisys, Fulham FC Foundation, Hammersmith & Fulham Council, Kier, The Lyric Hammersmith, Poores builders’ merchant, St George, Thames Water, University of Roehampton, Virgin Media and Willmott Dixon.

More employers are expected to join as the Fulham school builds to its full 300 student capacity over the next five years.

SAW HAPPY: The Duke of York talks to Fulham Enterprise Studio pupil Perry Teague

l Perry Teague, 14, pictured above and on front page, has been studying history and construction, and has been voted in to represent fellow students on the school’s development board, where he chairs the organisation committee.

Formerly a pupil at next door’s Fulham College, he said that the studio’s learning style appealed to him. “I wanted to experience something different,” he explained. The first few weeks you have to adjust to a different way of learning, but I learn much better here, because there are smaller classes and we get more support with the personal coaches.

“There isn’t an average day here, it’s always different and I like that.”

l Danae McGregor, 15, pictured on left, said the studio school’s appeal was that it meant she could do more of what she eventually aims to do as a career.

As well as core GCSEs, including English, maths and science, she has opted to do music with business studies and production arts BTECs.

She won last month’s team member of the month award for her consistently positive attitude and support and encouragement of others. A singer, she is part of the rock school band and a keen participant of iDebate.

Her team is working on Little Shop of Horrors for the summer at the Lyric, and she recently went on a West End theatre walk. “I look forward to lessons now,” she added.

YOUR SHOUT WHAT THE STUDENTS HAD TO SAY...

Young people have to realise

that they must

have skillsLOOK: The Duke of York chats with Iershad Mohebbi at the new Fulham Enterprise Studio

l Creative colours on the Wendell Park walls Page 22>>l If a drummer meets The Snowman, it’s bound to melt your heart Pages 32-34>>l What’s coming up on

l If there’s one rugby club to fear, it’s the young Wendell Park stars Pages 100-102>>l Squash champions battle for supremacy in the intense atmosphere of a glass show court Pages 108-109>>

Your 60-Second

Arts

Picture perfect

Sport

editorial

Editor > Geoff Cowart [email protected]

020 8753 6597

Chief sub-editor > Tim Harrison [email protected]

Room 39, Hammersmith Town Hall, King Street, London W6 [email protected]

l A special report on what happened when the talented stars of the Sulgrave Club stepped up to the mic

Pages 36-45

addreSS

advertiSing

Disclaimer The publisher does not accept responsibility for the content of advertisements or any event listings. Their inclusion does not mean that the publisher endorses the company, product advertised or event organisers.

h&f buzz is brought to you by Hammersmith & Fulham Council February 2013 Visit: www.lbhf.gov.uk

Newsl A brush with fame for young fans who tell the tooth Page 13>>l There is nothing like a dame! Sally’s honour Page 19>>l Borough’s primary schools climb league tables Pages 28-29>>l What’s on offer over half-term? H&F Council is hosting hundreds of free or low-cost activities, so see our

12-page guide! Pages 51-62>>l How do you get on with your

family? We explore the stresses and strains of home life Pages 66-68>>l Why order a pizza when you can create favourite made-to-measure toppings at home? Pages 70-71>>l What is going to

happen when GCSEs disappear? Pages 72-75>>

l The search for the ‘perfect body’, fuelled by features in the glossy magazines, runs the risk

of creating a surge in eating disorders Pages 78-81>>l Ever dreamed of being in power? Look what happened when the youth took over the town hall Pages 84-87>>l Darnell Christie decides to retire from h&f buzz. Mind you, he has reached the ripe old age of 13! Pages 88-91>>l Ever wondered how this paper is printed? Here’s the story of plates, coloured ink and staples Pages 92-93>>l Pledge from council bridges the care gap! Pages 94-95>>

l Elvis poses a weighty challenge Pages 96-99>>l The winter chill plays havoc with the primary schools’ football tournament Page 103>>l What happened when Freddie spent a day having fun at his favourite football club Pages 104-105>>

the borough’s big stages? We preview the latest gigs and theatre dates Page 35>>l Ed Sheeran sells

out his gigs at the Apollo Pages 46-47>>

l Where to brush up your Shakespeare Page 82>>

6

BUZZ 1.2013

Advertising sales > John Naylor [email protected]

07768 440 987 020 8753 2162

Want to write for us?Email: youth_ involvement.gov.uk or call 020 8753 6232


What’s going on

in your borough?


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BUZZ 1.2013

MY WORLD

Our hearts were in Newtown

by White City resident Zakaria Arif, 13

l PSY is the South Korean artist who made Gangnam style such a success that it is now the most-watched YouTube video in the world, as well as the song topping the charts in the UK.But who would have thought that the word would have spread all the way to the borough after the Lyric’s panto Cinderella featured some Gangnam style!I know! In a pantomine I hear you say!Well, some local young people don’t like to admit this... but we have been singing and dancing Gangnam style all the way! I thought I would find out what some young people thought about the Gangnam style and whether they are joining in the new trend.Shakur Warsama, 13, said: “I very much like Gangnam style, it is epic and a great pop tune!“Nicole Chaaraoui, 13, said: “It is definitely catchy because of the originality and different tone to it, but some day it might get boring.” Will you be the next man or woman to create a new style?

Who knew the local panto would go Gangnam?

ON December 14 last year, 20 children and six teachers at a school in Newtown, Connecticut, were killed in a horrific gun attack, as well as the gunman’s mother.

But three thousand miles away in Hammersmith & Fulham, it was not hard to find local kids who were upset after the senseless killings.

Nicole Chaaraoui, 13, reacted by saying: ”I really have huge sympathy for the children. They were really young, so I guess I feel privileged to still be alive .”

And Hajar Gumma, 13, said: ”I really feel sad for the children because those kids never got to live their lives.”

Let’s hope there will be no more mass murders of children and adults in the world.

GET ON THAT

HORSE: PSY has made

Gangnam style all the rage

BUZZ 1.2013

11

So do kids still have a love affair with books?

THE BIG QUESTION by Francesca Scott

Is technology taking over the lives of young people? Many

adults would reply to this with a firm yes. they would argue that young people today don’t read as much as they should.

It is true that before the internet was born, young people probably read a lot more books.

Our parents are always telling us how they used to love curling up with a book. But it could also be argued that young people today read just as much… just not books!

As a result of the invention of the internet, young people are reading more than ever. It may not be stories they are

reading, but it is still reading. Today they pick up most of their vocabulary from the internet.

Most young people enjoy reading, but don’t read much outside school.

Over half of all children in England say they prefer to watch television rather than read a book.

Although it is a shame that books aren’t as popular as they used to be, at least young people haven’t completely stopped reading.

According to a recent BBC survey, 17 per cent of young people today say they would be embarrassed if their friend saw them with a book, but no one minds if they are seen on a computer.

Isn’t this a bit strange?

Shouldn’t people be reading books as well as reading whatever they see online?

Many parents would probably say that their children spend too much time on the internet and playing video games, but there are other sides to this argument.

Reading is a very important part of life.

The good thing is that young people haven’t stopped reading altogether.

AGREE? DISAGREE?

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13

u Keep them bright and sparkling! Smiles gleam at Loftus Road as Shan Ellis found when she turned up, brush in hand

A brush with fame!

PuPils had a brush with fame when they got their toothypegs

inspected by Queens Park Rangers defender Nedum Onuoha.

A brushathon was held at QPR’s Loftus Road stadium to encourage more than 100 children to take care of their teeth rather than have to visit the dentist to be subjected to the dreaded drill.

Starting with the basics, such as how to brush and why we should all look after our teeth, the youngsters heard it from Nedum that brushing doesn’t have to be boring.

You can even try doing it

while watching Match of the Day!

Nearly half the children in the borough experience tooth decay when they start school, which can lead to gum disease and loss of teeth when they’re older.

The smiling youngsters who were gathered in one of the football stadium’s stands also received a free oral health pack including a toothbrush, toothpaste and a brushing chart.

ALL SMILES: Rangers star Nedum Onuoha helps west London to brush up

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February 2013 Open SessionTuesday 5th February4.00 to 5.30pmFulham Enterprise Studio Kingwood Road Fulham SW6 6SN

“I know that this school has only been going for a few months, but it is quite clear from talking to the employer partners here that it is already making a difference to the students that are here. If that has happened in two or three months, just think what is going to happen in four or five years.”HRH The Duke of York, KG

Are you looking for something new and innovative?Fulham Enterprise Studio opened in September 2012 and offers:

• specialist learning in Construction, Performing Arts and Business, Administration and Finance

• a range of ‘A’ levels including Maths, Music Technology and ICT

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• a two day per week work skills programme including long term placements with partner employers

• a Personal Coaching programme to develop the skills that employers are looking for.

Come along to our open session or contact us on 020 7381 3606 to find out how to get ahead of the rest in the job market.

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QUALIFICATIONS + EXPERIENCE = A STEP AHEAD OF THE REST!

CAMPAIGN: Boys and parents press for a new Fulham school in 2011. Below, new headmaster Alun Ebenezer

17

BUZZ 1.2013Opening of new Fulham boys’ school is delayed by a year to find a site

u Search for premises pushes back the planned opening of secondary school... but at least the inaugural headmaster is ready, writes Shan Ellis

THE new Fulham Boys’ School has delayed its opening by a year.

One hundred and twenty Year 7 boys had been due to start this September, but will now begin their studies at the new school in September 2014.

Explaining the setback, founder Alex Wade said: “Securing a site was always going to be a challenge for us in a densely populated London borough with limited space and high land and property costs.”

Describing the governors’ decision to delay as “a huge

joint venture between the Department for Education and the Church of England.

Mr Ebeneezer is currently deputy head of St Teilo’s Church in Wales High School, in Cardiff.

Previously Mr Ebeneezer served as the assistant head of Treorchy Comprehensive School – the first school in Wales which managed to achieve the level of ‘excellent’ in all 15 areas of the Ofsted inspection.

Mr Ebenezer said: “I am delighted to be taking up this position and excited to have been invited to help start a school with such a clear ethos and vision for boys’ education.

“Along with strong leadership, high quality teaching and learning is what makes pupils and schools successful.”l For more details, visit: www.fullhamboysschool.org

disappointment”, Mr Wade said final plans for a new site would hopefully be shared with prospective pupils, parents and staff in October.

But at least Fulham Boy’s School has a new head in place.

Alun Ebeneezer starts work this autumn, recruiting his staff.

The new free school is a

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THERE is nothing like a dame... which is great news for Burlington

Danes Academy headteacher Sally Coates, who has been named as one.

She has been made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire – the female equivalent of a knighthood – for her role in transforming the White City academy into one of the most improved schools in the country.

Her achievements were recognised earlier in the year when she was invited to share her recipe for success with other teachers at 10 Downing Street.

Dame Sally has worked in teaching since she was 22, becoming head Burlington Danes in 2008.

She turned round the fortunes of the school that had previously been in special measures. In 2012, 64 per cent of students achieved five or more A*-C grades... up 33 per cent from when the school became an academy in 2006.

Explaining her secret of her success, Dame Sally said: “The thing to remember is that everyone wants things to work. The teachers want to work in a good school, the parents want the school to be good and the

children want to be in a good school.”

On her Twitter account, Dame Sally said: “Thank you for all the congratulations. Very honoured to receive the award and looking forward to 2013 in a great school.”

Hammersmith & Fulham

Council education chief Andrew Christie said: “Dame Sally has done a wonderful job at Burlington Danes, making a real difference to the lives and aspirations of the young people at her school.”

Last year, Dame Sally’s ideas for improving education in Britain were agreed by politicians, with the Education Secretary Michael Gove describing them as “a new set of standards with real teeth”.

They came into force in September, requiring all teachers to adopt different ways of doing their job.

Very honoured to receive the award and looking

forward to 2013‘‘

19

BUZZ 1.2013

WE’RE PROUD OF YOU, MISS: Pupils at Burlington Danes salute their honoured headteacher

A New Year ’s gong for the Dame of the Danes

WHAT ARE THE NEW YEAR'S HONOURS?u Twice a year (in January and May) the Queen announces a list of people whose courage or community work deserve special reward.The monarch has been giving out honours since... 1348!

20

BUZZ 1.2013

S choolS across hammersmith & Fulham will benefit from a massive £33,300,000 cash

bonanza. The council agreed proposals for the Schools of choice funding programme, which will expand popular schools and upgrade school buildings to meet rapidly rising demand for local school places.

Fulham’s Lady Margaret – one of the area’s most oversubscribed secondary schools – will get £6m to expand by an additional class per year, enabling more local parents to secure a place at their top-choice school.

Other secondary schools will benefit from major refurbishments, including:l The london oratory, Fulham £2.4m to upgrade classroomsl West london Free School, hammersmith £299,309 to create a rooftop playground at its new Palingswick House primary school site, which is due to open in Septemberl Fulham cross, Fulham £184,000 to improve ICT facilities

uAn upgrading bonanza is set to transform Hammersmith & Fulham schools after the council agreed to spend £33million on building works, writes Louise Raisey

Massive cash injection for school buildings

£60k

£2.4

mFulham College

Boys’ School for eco lights

London Oratory

in Fulham to upgrade classrooms

21

BUZZ 1.2013

and install solar panels l Burlington Danes, Shepherds Bush £117,375 to improve science facilities l Fulham College Boys’ School £60,000 for new energy-efficient lighting.

As the number of children across London reaching primary school age is rising rapidly, extra places are badly needed to cater for future demand.

Burlington Danes secondary school is to receive £4.5m to create a new primary school in the north of the borough and neighbouring ARK Bentworth primary, one of the borough’s new free schools, will get £500,000 to expand.

There are major expansion plans in the programme for St Stephen’s and Pope John primary schools, who will get £5.4m and £4.5m respectively to expand the number of places they provide.

There is £7,770,000 more for smaller improvements to the classrooms, toilets and

other building and facilities in 38 more schools across the borough.

Jack Tizard special school is also getting £440,000 to

develop food technology and sensory areas and upgrade specialist lifts.

“Standards in our schools have been rising dramatically over recent years making them more popular than ever,” says Cllr Helen Binmore, H&F cabinet member for children’s services.

“Combined with a growing local population of children, this means we need more places in popular schools to make sure as many parents as possible get their children into their schools of choice.”

Many primary schools in the borough have already expanded to cater for rising demand for places and 73 per cent of local children secured a place in their preferred school last September, compared to 70 per cent the year before.

More local children than ever before are now attending local state schools rather than going outside the borough or to private schools.

£6m

Lady Margaret in Fulham to expand

£117

kBurlington Danes in Shepherds Bush for science facilities

TOTAL CASH FOR SCHOOLS: £33.3ml Lady Margaret, Fulham £6ml The London Oratory, Fulham £2.4ml West London Free School, Hammersmith £299,309 l Fulham Cross, Fulham £184,000 l Burlington Danes, Shepherds Bush £117,375 l Fulham College Boys’ School, Fulham £60,000 l Wormholt Park, White City £500,000 l Good Shepherd, Shepherds Bush £328,000 l Fulham Primary, Fulham £176,000 l John Betts, Hammersmith £105,000 l St John’s Walham Green, Fulham £100,000l Addison Primary, West Kensington £77,000 l Brackenbury Primary, Hammersmith £40,000

PARENTS got an eyeful when they arrived at Wendell Park primary

school for a chat with teachers.

On show around the walls of the Shepherds Bush school was a collection of colourful and inventive designs by the pupils.

Led by artist-in-residence Chris Guard, the pupils worked with watercolours and acrylic paints to create the works. Landscapes and beach scenes were the most popular settings, Chris said.

“I like to try to develop a bit of confidence in the children when they start

their paintings or drawings,” Chris said. “Now they come into class and off they go!

“A bit of encouragement seems to have helped and it really shows in the art they’ve created.”

Pupil Enny Idowu agreed, saying that art class was “interesting and fun”.

uWave of creativity generates impressive art collection, writes Geoff Cowart

22

BUZZ 1.2013

ON SHOW: Mark Twum-Ampofo and his daughter Ava during parents’ evening at Wendell Park primary school

CREATE: Left, art teacher Chris Guard with his daughter Tallulah. Above, Enny Idowu with her artwork at the Shepherds Bush school’s show

Hang it all! These young artists are the real deal!

Honey, I shrunk the house!

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BUZZ 1.2013

Tea for twodECISIONS, dECISIONS: Young ladies are spoilt for choice at the Betty Blythe dress-up parties

25

BUZZ 1.2013

PASS the cucumber sandwiches, Cecilia!Little girls are looking more grown up every day at Betty

Blythe, where posh tea parties are all the rage.

The teapots are filled with hot chocolate, everyone sips from dainty cups, flowers are strewn on the table, and the dressing-up boxes are plundered until everyone looks like pint-sized 20s flappers.

It’s the latest wheeze for girls’ parties at the Brook Green tea shop pink wafer biscuits and chocolate brownies replacing ice cream and lemonade.

Parties also offer face-painting, biscuit decorating and jewellery making, with events staged in the tea room, where sophisticated young ladies sit at French boudoir furniture. Parties for groups of eight, 16 or 20 start at £10.50 per young lady.

Tea room owner Lulu Gwynne said: “It’s wonderful to hear the excitement build as the dressing-up box is opened and the mild manners turn to shrieks of laughter.”l Betty Blythe of 73 Blythe Road, Brook Green, W14 0HP. Call 020 7602 1177 or visit: www.bettyblythe.co.uk

Tea for twou It’s where all the little misses gather to delicately lift porcelain cups to their lips. Tim Harrison reports on the trendiest place to throw a party in Brook Green

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Book your visit now to see why Little People is the only private day nursery in Hammersmith & Fulham rated as Outstanding by Ofsted.

Call: Fulham - 020 7386 0006 or Shepherds Bush – 020 8749 2877/5080

Email: [email protected] *as at 26th March 2009

High quality child care at affordable prices High quality child care at affordable prices

A Brighter FutureWhen you start with Kip McGrath Tuition

Call now for a FREE Assessment on020 8741 5003 07944 462 880

[email protected]

1st Floor 165 King StreetHammersmithLondon, W6 9JT(Near Hammersmith & Fulham Town Hall)

s ea MathsW e

All lessons delivered by Quali�ed CRB-checked teachers OFSTED Registered Centre

Students5 - 1 6 y r s

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Discounted lessons forworking tax credit claimants

28

BUZZ 1.2013

29

BUZZ 1.2013

uWendell Park, Fulham Primary and Kenmont all show massive improvements in the new league table, reports Delyth Bowen

Primary schools in Hammersmith & Fulham are

continuing to improve, with results well above the national average.

A recent publication of school league tables in England shows that the number of 10 and 11-year-olds hitting Level 4 or higher in their SAT exams is 81 per cent – up 4 per cent on last year, and creeping above the national average of 80 per cent.

The Key Stage 2 results also show that five schools in the borough – Good Shepherd, St Stephen’s, Pope John, St Mary’s and The London Oratory – are at the top of the table with all pupils, 100 per cent, achieving Level 4 in both English and mathematics.

Expected progress in English is up by three per cent on last year in the borough, and is above the national average of 89 per cent, while expected progress in maths is also better than 2011 figures, up two percentage points at 88 per cent and 4 per cent above the national average, which stands at 84 per cent.

In London, there were 70 schools where every pupil reached Level 4 in English and maths – up from 48 schools last year.

Cllr Helen Binmore, H&F Council’s cabinet member for children’s services, said: “These results show that our schools and pupils are

continuing to work hard to achieve high educational standards and that things are continuing to improve.

“We know there is still more to be done.

“But this year’s figures show we have taken great leap in the right direction, and with more schools of choice than ever for parents, we are looking forward to continued success for our primary schools, teachers, their pupils and parents.”

The borough’s most improved schools are Fulham Primary and Wendell Park in Shepherds Bush, where the percentage of pupils achieving Level 4 or above in English and maths combined moved up to 93 per cent and 85 per cent

respectively – both high above the national average and both having improved by a staggering 28 per cent.

Results at Kenmont School in the north of the borough have also improved massively, with figures there shooting up by 54 per cent overall since 2009.

This year’s statistics show that the percentage of pupils achieving Level 4 or higher in English was 90 per cent, maths was 93 per cent and with both subjects combined, it stands at 87 per cent.

Kenmont’s figures in 2009 were 44 per cent in English, 59 per cent in maths, and 33 per cent in English and maths combined.

ON TARGET!

BULLSEYE: A Kenmont

Primary pupil takes aim, left.

Fulham Primary pupils prepare for

carnival

Mable, foster carerThe doorbell rang. Brothers Sam, three, and Thomas, six, were standing there. Mabel, a friendly and inviting foster carer with a beaming smile, will never forget that moment.

“They came in, shouting ‘Charrrrrrrge!’ They wanted to see everything at once; it was a whirlwind!” she remembers.

That was July 2011. They’re still with her, and are very much part of the family.

Sam didn’t speak and wasn’t potty-trained. He was withdrawn and he just pointed at what he wanted. “You should see him now. He’s full-time at nursery. He says: ‘I’m a big boy now; I go to toilet on my own.’”

Thomas was hyperactive. Both boys had complex health and developmental needs because they had been so neglected. Today, they are good sleepers, and eat anything. Sam calls Mabel ‘the bestest mum in the whole wide world’.

The siblings maintain contact with their birth family, so Mabel sends their birth parents photos of them on birthdays and supports the boys with regular contact.

“They’re lovely boys. They see me as their lifejacket!” she said.

“Having siblings is more complex. You have to divide love, care and attention between two. Their needs are different. It takes time, patience and understanding to deal with each child’s issues as they arise.”

Structure is vital. “You have to set clear boundaries as it’s easy for things to get out of hand with two children. In a way you have to be more organised as it’s double the work and you have to spend one-to-one time with each.

“They shower at 7, have hot chocolate at 7.30, and are in bed by 8. The little one knows when it’s 7pm, and puts out two cups and spoons… plus one for me! He also puts the cereal bowls out for both of them in the morning.

Looking after sibling has its rewards. “They pull strength from each other. Looked-after siblings support each other; which eases the separation from their birth parents.”

Mabel, now in her 50s, came into foster care after a career in nursing and teaching. Her own two grown-up daughters and grandsons (one a teenager who wants to go into the police) get on well with the boys she has fostered.

“I went to an evening session where they explained about being a foster carer, other carers speak about their experiences, and the training, finances and type of children you could care for was discussed. That was helpful. You have time to ask questions, which is important… but all I wanted to know was how soon I could foster!”

In the end, it took just over a year. Today the process is thorough, but more streamlined, at around six to eight months.

Her first placement was a disturbed eight-year-old boy. “It was hard at the beginning. It took a lot of talking to reassure him and get him to relax and settle.

“He opened up to me when he realised I was concerned about him and his safety. What he told me [about his past] meant I eventually had to make a statement to court.” He stayed 18 months, before moving to his ‘forever’ family.

Fostering has its highs and lows. One challenge Mabel has found is dealing with other people’s reactions to her boys, especially if they’re playing up on the bus. “They look at you as if you can’t cope, and they look at the children as if they’re spoilt. They just don’t know what’s going on underneath.”

The rewards are seeing children achieve and improve. “You need patience, encouragement and perseverance, but I think the rewards are almost greater when you see a child with more complex problems overcome them… when they return from school with the certificates they’ve been awarded.

“Children come into care for different reasons, and from different backgrounds. They need to be part of a caring family, and need to feel that they’re being listened to. Enjoy what you’re doing! They’re children, and all children have the right to be loved.

“I’m looking forward to seeing these two develop and achieve. The youngster one, Sam, wants to be a fireman. Fireman Sam!”All names have been changed.

Siblings should have the opportunity to stay together in foster care.Across Hammersmith & Fulham, Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster there is an increased demand for foster placements for sibling groups. Wherever possible

we try to place siblings together in foster care, but we need more people to come forward to provide placements for sibling groups.

If you have ever thought about fostering and you have got the energy, space and time in your lives to foster sibling groups please get in touch with us.

Could you Foster siblings like us?

All children have the right to be loved

Freephone 0800 169 3497 [email protected]

/adoptionandfosteringwww.lbhf.gov.uk /fosteringwww.rbkc.gov.uk/fosteringwww.westminster.gov.uk/fostering

32

BUZZ 1.2013 A dog’s best friend

A WISH COME TRUE:

Skinsman Andy Burrows has always had a quirky desire

to produce a Christmas

record

33

BUZZ 1.2013A dog’s best friend

DRUMMER Andy Burrows once told me in a very muddy Reading Festival field that he wanted to record an

album of Christmas songs.It was during the explosion of his former

band Razorlight when their debut album Rip It Up was riding high in the charts. It was a blazing hot August day so it seemed an odd idea at the time.

But lo and behold, the lad’s gone and done it. Andy – who also released his first solo album last year – sang the vocals and helped create the music for this Christmas’s 30th anniversary adaptation of Raymond Briggs’s classic tale of The Snowman. So I guess the tousled-hair rocker wasn’t joking!

When I reminded him of our conversation, Andy laughed and said: “Dude, that’s amazing. I’m grateful that you reminded me of my ambition. I got there in the end, huh?”

Teaming up with composer Ilan Eshkeri (who did the soundtracks to films such as Layer Cake and Kick-Ass), they set about bringing the wintry 30-year-old tale to life for the Channel 4 sequel The Snowman and the Snowdog.

“I’ve always been quite a festive bloke and always wanted to do music for films or TV,” Andy said.

“And Ilan’s a Razorlight fan so we just got chatting. And then I moved to New York last year. And I was sitting around in my apartment writing songs and the phone rang. It was Ilan and he said something had ‘come up for us’ which I thought was very sweet of him.

“He gets a lot of offers and it was cool that he thought of me. When I found out it was to work on a remake of The Snowman it was a dream come true.

“We then pitched our ideas to Lupus Films and everyone thought I was OK. It was an incredible, incredible experience to work on a remake of The Snowman – just amazing.”

The duo spent three months working on the 23-minute score, which includes a cameo from Andy on tune Light the Night. The song features two swelling crescendos – one interrupted by the

snowman descending to earth to collect his fallen satsuma nose before soaring to the heavens again in a propeller plane heading for a snowman’s paradise – and then again on the way home to beat the sunrise.

It was recorded in the legendary Abbey Road Studios in north London.

But before they wrote a single note, Andy remembers being shown the film. “I was totally blown away the first time I watched it – it had me in tears. Even before it had any

music! So our job was done before we even started! All we tried to do is enhance the various moods,” he said.

“It blew my mind to watch the artists work on the animation. And the story is beautiful. It was 100 times what I would have wished for when I was speaking to you at Reading Festival!”

In addition to the 60-piece London Metropolitan Orchestra, a choir featuring musical greats such as Emmy the Great, Edith Bowman, All Angels, Celia Graham, as well as musical backing from Ash’s Tim Wheeler and Dom Howard from Muse, was also hand-picked for the film.

“I was always a massive fan of The Snowman,” Andy said with a smile. “Through my childhood and my teens I remember watching it every year.

“It was a huge part of my life when I was growing up.

“And we put a lot of love into it – the soundtrack meant everything to me. We tried to make it one long continuous piece.”

The show melted the hearts of millions, with Channel 4 reporting that almost six million viewers tuned in – a record for the year for the broadcaster.

But Andy says he was gutted not to meet the Essex-based author Raymond Briggs, who had to give his final approval to the film before it was beamed to homes across Britain.

“We didn’t get to meet Raymond. He seems like a lovely guy but I think he likes to keep himself to himself

INTERVIEWHe’s soon to play the Bush Hall in Uxbridge Road, but tub-pounder Andy Burrows has also had a wintry date with a well-known snowman and his hound. Geoff Cowart tells the story

STORY CONTINUES ON PAGE 34

34

BUZZ 1.2013 – and that’s fair enough.” In the end, the 23 minutes of film took a crew of 94 – comprised of 47 artists and 30 animators – to create the sequel. And like the original, it tells the story of a young boy who is taken on a magical adventure by the snowman he’s built in his garden on Xmas eve.

While the setting has moved from Brighton to London and the iconic tune Walking in the Air has been replaced by Andy’s impressive Light the Night, the original look and feel of the film remains.

ANDY BURROWS IS COMING TO TOWN...If the music of The Snowman and the Snowdog struck a chord, you may be excited to hear that Andy has hinted that he may be performing the song Light the Night at his February 21 gig at Bush Hall in Uxbridge Road, Shepherds Bush.

Although he’s keen to show off tunes from his new solo album Company, he dangled this morsel to his snow-friendly fans: “We’re putting a lot of effort into the live show. I want it to be a good night out. I want the lights to be dim, the crowd to be chilled and for everyone to have a nice evening.

“It would be cool to throw in a few tunes that aren’t on my album. Maybe something from The Snowman and the Snowdog? Maybe something from Razorlight? Who knows!”

l Andy Burrow’s solo album Company (Play it Again Sam) is out now. Andy plays Bush Hall on February 21. For times, tickets or more details, visit: www.bushhallmusic.co.uk

SNOW JOKE:

Andy Burrows jumped at the

chance to help create the music to Snowman and

the Snowdog

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33

‘It was beautiful – I was in tears’

35

BUZZ 1.2013

l PRIZE-winning show from the Royal Exchange Theatre, with siblings Tiana, Tionne and Tanika all at home guarding a dark secret. Written by Janice Okoh and directed by Sarah Frankcom, the dark comedy about family, fantasy and childhood has special £10 ticket deals for anyone under 26. Mention your age at the time of booking. Cheap tickets only apply up to April 13. 020 8743 5050.

l LIVE interactive show for all the family featuring everyone’s favourites Wallace and Gromit in a specially filmed animation. Audiences will see the duo’s backstage exploits as they prepare for the first performance of Wallace’s new work, My Concerto in Eee, Lad. Nick Park’s Lancashire man-and-dog pairing were last seen on stage at the BBC Proms. You can book on 0844 249 1000.

WHAT’S ON?

l GLIMPSE Rita Ora as she sets out on her Radioactive tour... but only if you’ve already snapped up a ticket. The sold-out gig also features Iggy Azalea, and after Shepherds Bush the singers continue to Bournemouth, Birmingham, Bristol and Leeds. Rita will be singing songs from her 2012 debut album, Ora, and trying out material from the new album, due out this year.

Rita OraO2 Shepherds BushEmpire February 5

Three BirdsBush TheatreMarch 20-April 20

l AIMED at under eights, The Nightingale is an adaptation of a Hans Christian Andersen tale about a lonely king who has everything he wants... except friendship. All tickets are £8 (with a family ticket for four costing £30), and the show lasts just under an hour. The Hammersmith theatre’s messy play sessions are held after performances. Book tickets at 020 8741 6850.

The NightingaleLyric TheatreMarch 2

Wallace & GromitHammersmith ApolloMarch 31-April 1

>> By Geoff Cowart

‘wasdfasdfasdfffasdfsadfasdfasd’

36

BUZZ 1.2013

PICTURE SPECIALThey can sing, they can dance and they can play the drums! Shepherds Bush youngsters have star quality. Tim Harrison reports

WE’VE GOT THE TALENT

WATCH out for the name! Destiny McDonald has won a Shepherds Bush youth club’s top talent

show for the second year on the trot.

The 12-year-old singer gained the most votes from the 150-strong audience at the Sulgrave Club’s recent annual awards night and variety show.

Her version of Alicia Keys’ biggest hit single, the soulful 2007 song No One, dazzled everyone.

Nick Sazeides, manager of the Goldhawk Road youth club, told h&f buzz: “I thought the quality of the acts was really good, and it was a very difficult decision for the audience to choose the best one.”

Other acts on stage at the Sulgrave were Harrison Harley, an 11-year-old who performed his own rap song, and singing double act Daeshaun Campbell and Cheyenne Lawrence, both aged nine.

Warwick Budd, aged 11, performed a solo drum act, playing to one of his own tracks, while Enny Idowu, 10, was another of the talented singers in the showcase.


37

BUZZ 1.2013 REMEMBER

THE FACE Destiny McDonald, 12, is crowned the

Sulgrave Club’s talent show winner

for the second year running

PICTURES BY DAVID TETT

38

BUZZ 1.2013

The young performers had rehearsed their acts at regular meetings of the youth club, which is open Tuesday-Saturday from 6.30pm.

It is the sixth year that the Sulgrave Club has run a talent show, with the evening combined with presentations and prizegivings to the members of the year and the personalities of the year in both junior and senior sections.

The personality awards are made after voting by staff, while the member of the year gongs recognise good attendance throughout the year and participation in club activities.

For more information on the Sulgrave Club in Goldhawk Road call 020 8748 3561, email [email protected] or drop by one evening.

WE’VE GOT TALENTSULGRAVE CLUB’SANNUAL TALENT SHOW & AWARDS NIGHT 2012

STORY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 36

39

BUZZ 1.2013 A BIG VOICE: Clockwise from left,

Destiny McDonald takes the top prize.

Enny Idowu, 10, gives it her all

at the Sulgrave Club’s talent show (main picture and

below) and Destiny hits the right note

in rehearsals

MORE PICTURESSEE PAGES40-41

40

BUZZ 1.2013



41

BUZZ 1.2013

GIVE THE DRUMMER

SOME...Warwick Budd,

11, gets his sticks moving at the Sulgrave Club

42

BUZZ 1.2013

BUST A MOVE:Daeshaun Campbell and Cheyenne Lawrence, both 9, wow the crowd with their duet



43

BUZZ 1.2013

44

BUZZ 1.2013


45

BUZZ 1.2013RAP ATTACK:Harrison Harley, 11,

drops a rhyme at the Sulgrave Club

46

BUZZ 1.2013

IT TOOK five nights at the Hammersmith Apollo in October to please the devoted fans of young

British popstar Ed Sheeran.While the 21-year-old singer and guitarist

could fill the O2 and call it a night, he would rather play night after night to his young fans. And with tickets priced at a fair £24 per night he seems like a man of the people.

The London-based star took to the stage all alone and kicked off his two-hour

sets with Give Me Love, during which he instructed the crowd to film him and send in their videos to make one huge ‘fan film’. The results are now on his website (www.edsheeran.com). Did you make the cut?

Halifax-born Ed is no stranger to the borough’s music scene as he was asked by Fulham rapper Example to join a 2010 tour before recording his breakthrough Live at the Bedford EP – the sister pub of The Distillers in Fulham Palace Road.

EDDY HEIGHTS: Pop star Ed Sheeran played five sold-out nights at the Hammersmith Apollo recentlyPICTURES BY SKYE PORTMAN

47

BUZZ 1.2013

EXCLUSIVE PICTURES When 21-year-old Londoner Ed Sheeran hit the Apollo, his army of fans created a very special film to celebrate. Geoff Cowart reports from backstage

ed’sup

Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Singing Annual Performance

Studio hire available W12

Studio locationsW12, W11, SW7, W1

For further information and to book a place on any of the activities please contact:

[email protected] or call us on 020 8735 5379All information can be found on our website

www.letmeplay.co.uk

FREE FEBRUARYHALF TERM ACTIVITIES Mon 18th February - Fri 22nd February

All activities

are free...you

just need to

sign up!

For young people aged 11 - 19 years old

Limited Places!

www.floragardens.lbhf.sch.uk

FREE services for families in the Flora Gardens Children’s Centre area with children under five, including:

• Baby/toddler stay and play

• Toddler boost

• Creative play

• Post natal group (yoga)

• Positive parenting program

• Dads club

• Referrals for two year old funding

• Family support services

Flora Gardens Children’s Centre,

Dalling Road, Hammersmith, W6 0UD

Tel: 020 8741 7892 Fax: 020 8563 0946

Email: [email protected]

Web: www.floragardens.lbhf.sch.ukIf you would like any part of this document produced in large print or Braille, please telephone 020 8741 7892. Services for families in the Flora Gardens

Children’s Centre area with children under five.

SPRING PROGRAMME 2013

Published by Hammersmith & Fulham Council

Produced by Hammerprint. Tel 020 8753 2235

Ref: Lf.CHS Flora Gardens Spring programme 2013

Printed on paper from sustainable sources

Breakfast Club 8.00-8.45am (4-5 years)

By referral only. An opportunity for your child to come

and enjoy a healthy breakfast before school.

Mini Mozarts 9.00-10.00am (18-36 months)

Come and enjoy songs and rhymes with your child.

ESOL Complete Beginners Class

9.30-11.30am 10 January to 14 February

Come and join our English as a second language class to

practice speaking and listening skills along with improving

your reading, writing and understanding. You can build

your confidence in everyday communication, and learn to

help your children with their homework. Classes will be

taught by a specialist qualified ESOL teacher. If you attend

regularly you will gain a certificate and progress to a higher

level course. • You must register for this course before

attending the termly programme.

• By appointment through application.

• £23 registration fee payable at course start.

• Crèche available by appointment.

Baby Massage 10.30-11.30am

(10 weeks to crawling). Starts 10 January

A five week massaging programme run by a professional.

These sessions are designed to promote your babies

movement and flexibility. The babies benefit emotionally

from positive touch and interaction with their parents/

carers. Baby massage also aids sleeping and can provide

relief from colic, wind and constipation. Please call

centre to book your place.Young Families Group 1.00-3.00pm

A session for parents aged 21 or under. A chance to meet

other young parents, and play alongside your children in

a stimulating environment (2.00-3.00pm), with a weekly

themed workshop for parents. The session is led by the

family nurse partnership. Topics will include advice on

going back into education or employment, sexual health

advice and behaviour management techniques.

ESOL Advanced 1.00-3.00pm

10 January to 14 February This is an advanced English as a second language class.

Classes will be taught by a specialist qualified ESOL teacher.

Pre-registration form



If you attend regularly you will gain a certificate and

progress to a higher level course. • You must register for this course before

attending the termly programme.

• By appointment through application.

• £23 registration fee payable at course start.

• Crèche available by appointment.

Post Natal Check 1.00-3.00pm By referral only.Breakfast Club 8.00-8.45am (4-5 years)


and enjoy a healthy breakfast before school.

Creative Play 9.00-10.00amA session where children can get creative and improve their

creative development through experiencing play with many

different materials.Rising 3s: Getting Ready for School

10.30am-12.00pmGive your child the experience of playing and mixing with

other children in a school setting. Helps prepare children

for their transition into nursery/school. By appointment

through application. Health Visitor 9.30am-2.30pm

By referral only once a month.

Flora Gardens Children’s Centre, Dalling Road, Hammersmith, W6 0UDTel: 020 8741 7892 Fax: 020 8563 0946Email: [email protected]: www.floragardens.lbhf.sch.ukIf you would like any part of

this document produced in large print or Braille, please telephone 020 8741 7892. Services for families in the Flora Gardens



Published by Hammersmith & Fulham Council

Produced by Hammerprint. Tel 020 8753 2235

Ref: Lf.CHS Flora Gardens Spring programme 2013

Printed on paper from sustainable sources



and enjoy a healthy breakfast before school.Mini Mozarts 9.00-10.00am (18-36 months)

Come and enjoy songs and rhymes with your child. ESOL Complete Beginners Class 9.30-11.30am 10 January to 14 February

Come and join our English as a second language class to








attending the termly programme. • By appointment through application. • £23 registration fee payable at course start.

• Crèche available by appointment.Baby Massage 10.30-11.30am (10 weeks to crawling). Starts 10 January


These sessions are designed to promote your babies

movement and flexibility. The babies benefit emotionally

from positive touch and interaction with their parents/

carers. Baby massage also aids sleeping and can provide

relief from colic, wind and constipation. Please call

centre to book your place.Young Families Group 1.00-3.00pmA session for parents aged 21 or under. A chance to meet




family nurse partnership. Topics will include advice on

going back into education or employment, sexual health

advice and behaviour management techniques.ESOL Advanced 1.00-3.00pm10 January to 14 February This is an advanced English as a second language class.





If you attend regularly you will gain a certificate and

progress to a higher level course. • You must register for this course before

attending the termly programme. • By appointment through application. • £23 registration fee payable at course start.

• Crèche available by appointment.Post Natal Check 1.00-3.00pm By referral only.



and enjoy a healthy breakfast before school.Creative Play 9.00-10.00amA session where children can get creative and improve their


different materials.Rising 3s: Getting Ready for School

10.30am-12.00pmGive your child the experience of playing and mixing with



through application. Health Visitor 9.30am-2.30pm By referral only once a month.

Flora Gardens Children’s Centre, Dalling Road, Hammersmith, W6 0UDTel: 020 8741 7892 Fax: 020 8563 0946Email: [email protected]: www.floragardens.lbhf.sch.ukIf you would like any part of this document produced in large print or Braille, please telephone 020 8741 7892. Services for families in the Flora Gardens



Published by Hammersmith & Fulham Council Produced by Hammerprint. Tel 020 8753 2235 Ref: Lf.CHS Flora Gardens Spring programme 2013 Printed on paper from sustainable sources

Breakfast Club 8.00-8.45am (4-5 years)By referral only. An opportunity for your child to come

and enjoy a healthy breakfast before school.Mini Mozarts 9.00-10.00am (18-36 months)Come and enjoy songs and rhymes with your child. ESOL Complete Beginners Class 9.30-11.30am 10 January to 14 FebruaryCome and join our English as a second language class to








attending the termly programme. • By appointment through application. • £23 registration fee payable at course start. • Crèche available by appointment.Baby Massage 10.30-11.30am (10 weeks to crawling). Starts 10 January


These sessions are designed to promote your babies movement and flexibility. The babies benefit emotionally

from positive touch and interaction with their parents/carers. Baby massage also aids sleeping and can provide

relief from colic, wind and constipation. Please call centre to book your place.Young Families Group 1.00-3.00pm

A session for parents aged 21 or under. A chance to meet




family nurse partnership. Topics will include advice on going back into education or employment, sexual health

advice and behaviour management techniques.ESOL Advanced 1.00-3.00pm10 January to 14 February This is an advanced English as a second language class.





If you attend regularly you will gain a certificate and progress to a higher level course. • You must register for this course before

attending the termly programme. • By appointment through application. • £23 registration fee payable at course start. • Crèche available by appointment.Post Natal Check 1.00-3.00pm By referral only.

Breakfast Club 8.00-8.45am (4-5 years)By referral only. An opportunity for your child to come

and enjoy a healthy breakfast before school.Creative Play 9.00-10.00amA session where children can get creative and improve their


different materials.Rising 3s: Getting Ready for School 10.30am-12.00pmGive your child the experience of playing and mixing with



through application. Health Visitor 9.30am-2.30pm By referral only once a month.

Spring programme out nowFor a copy call 020 8741 7892 or just pop in to the centre: Dalling Road Hammersmith W6 0UD

SPORTACTIVITIES

Got to Dance Camp LDF

Monday 18 to Friday 22 February

11.00am-2.00pm

Age: 11-19

Learn all the latest street dance

moves including popping, locking

and breaking with a professional

coach. The week will end with

a performance.

Hurlingham and Chelsea School

Peterborough Road, SW6 3ED

0845 009 0933 [email protected]

Parsons Green

Tennis Club LDF

Monday 18 February

1.00-3.00pmAge: 11-19

Tennis coaching for all abilities,

this weekly session will allow

you to build your tennis skills and

make friends in the borough.

Bishop’s Park Tennis Courts

Bishop’s Park Road, SW6 6DX


Putney Bridge

Street Ball – Basketball Week LDFMonday 18 to Friday 22 February1.00-4.00pmAge: 11-19A full week of coaching from a renowned street player, plus games and tournaments with loads of prizes. Hurlingham and Chelsea School Peterborough Road, SW6 3ED 0845 009 0933 [email protected]

Parsons Green

Multi Sports Camp LDFMonday 18 to Friday 22 February1.00-4.00pmAge: 11-19A week of multi-sports including basketball, football, dodge ball, cricket, rugby, tennis, rounders and loads more. Linford Christie Stadium, Artillery Way, off Du Cane Road, W12 0AE0845 009 0933 [email protected]

East Acton/White City/Wood LaneFootball Camp LDFMonday 18 to Friday 22 February2.00-4.00pmAge: 11-19Learn new skills and drills from professional coaches; take part in games and tournaments with lots of prizes to be won.Linford Christie Stadium, Artillery Way, off Du Cane Road, W12 0AE 0845 009 0933 [email protected]

East Acton/White City/Wood Lane

Zumba and

Fashion Design LDF

Tuesday 19 to Thursday 21 February

11.00am-3.00pm

Age: 11-19

Zumba warm-ups, followed by

dance themed fashion design

through the ages. Expect workshop

learning and finish off with some

more Zumba moves and fitness!

Masbro Centre

87 Masbro Road, W14 0LR


Shepherd’s Bush/Olympia

Football Tournament

under 16s LDF

Tuesday 19 February

1.00-4.00pmAge: 11-16

Under 16 and into football?

This is your chance to play games,

have fun and win some prizes for

yourself and your team.

Linford Christie Stadium, Artillery

Way, off Du Cane Road, W12 0AE


East Acton/White City/Wood Lane

Football Tournament over 16s LDFTuesday 19 February 5.00-7.00pmAge: 16-19Come along to our regular holiday football tournament to play for fun and a trophy. Come on your own or with a team and we will get you involved!Linford Christie Stadium, Artillery Way, off Du Cane Road, W12 0AE 0845 009 0933 [email protected]

East Acton/White City/Wood LaneWhite City Football Club LDFTuesday 19 February5.00-7.00pmAge: 11-19Join your friends and coach every week for football skills and games.Old Oak Community Centre 76 Braybrook Street, W12 0AP0845 009 0933 [email protected]

East Acton

Twilight Street Dance LDF(You must pre-book)Wednesday 20 February 5.00-7.00pmAge: 16-19Dance in the dark street dance master class for all levels.West London School for Dance 25 Bulwer Street, W12 8AR0845 009 0933 [email protected]

Shepherd’s Bush Market

Kayaking Club LDF(You must pre-book)Thursday 21 February1.00-3.00pmAge: 11-19A fun two hour trip up the river and back with your friends!Furnivall Sculling Club 19 Lower Mall, W6 9DJ0845 009 0933 [email protected]

Hammersmith/Ravenscourt ParkBasketball Jam LDFFriday 22 February2.00-6.00pmAge: 13-19Fast paced and fun, this Basketball Jam will be filled with competitions, skill drills and loads of prizes. Professional coaches will be on hand to give you tips!

Ealing, Hammersmith and West London College, Gliddon Road, W14 9BL0845 009 0933 [email protected]

Barons Court

Hip Hop Dance LDFFriday 22 February4.00-5.00pmAge: 11-19Join this master class, with performing hip hop dancers!Masbro Centre 87 Masbro Road, W14 0LR0845 009 0933 [email protected]

Shepherd’s Bush

MUSIC AND PERFORMING ART ACTIVITIES

Shakespeare Master Class LDF

Monday 18 February11.00am-1.30pmAge: 11-19

From Shakespeare’s famous Romeo

and Juliet balcony scene to the

battle scenes of Macbeth, join us

for a masterclass.

Lyric Theatre, Lyric Square, King Street, W6 0QL


Hammersmith

Sketch Show LDF

Monday 18 February2.30-5.00pmAge: 13-19

Slapstick comedy is a vital element

of British theatre. Get your friends

laughing and find your inner clown

in this one off comedy master class.

Lyric Theatre Lyric Square, King Street, W6 0QL


Hammersmith

Street Theatre LDF

Tuesday 19 February

11.00am-1.30pmAge: 11-19

From the bustling streets of

Brazil, you need a show stopping

performance to grab your audience’s

attention. Learn how to do just that

by creating a street spectacle!



Hammersmith

Commedia Dell’arte LDF

Tuesday 19 February, 2.30-5.00pmAge: 11-19Masked theatre is an exciting element of Brazilian theatre and a specialist skill! Have fun making your own masked scenes and learn the power behind the mask!



Hammersmith

Physical Theatre LDF

Wednesday 20 February11.00am-1.30pmAge: 11-19Merging dance with theatre, physical theatre is growing in popularity! Come and get your head round the basics and create some dynamic performances.



Hammersmith

Puppet Making LDF

Wednesday 20 February, 2.30-5.00pmAge: 11-19Puppets are used across Europe in theatre and this is your chance to design and make your own. Get arty and crafty learning the secrets of how to create a puppet.



Hammersmith

Broadway LDFThursday 21 February, 11.00am-1.30pmAge: 11-19Jazz hands, smiles, singing and dance routines galore in this Broadway-inspired masterclass. From ‘Phantom’ to’ Wicked’, learn from an infamous top-selling New York musical.

Lyric Theatre Lyric Square, King Street, W6 0QL020 8741 6869 [email protected]

Hammersmith Street Dance LDFThursday 21 February, 2.30-5.00pmAge: 11-19We take it back to the ‘old skool’ in this Hip Hop workshop, paying homage to its Chicago roots. Send your audience into a spin.Lyric Theatre

Lyric Square, King Street, W6 0QL020 8741 6869 [email protected]

Hammersmith Singing with Friends LDFFriday 22 February, 11.00am-1.30pmAge: 11-19Singing with friends is a huge part of African culture. Learn to harmonise and make a beautiful sound whilst having fun with your friends! Lyric Theatre

Lyric Square, King Street, W6 0QL020 8741 6869 [email protected]

Hammersmith

MONDAY 18THHAFAD PROGRAMME9.30am-4.30pmGreswell Centre

SAFE PROGRAMME10.00am-3.00pmPhoenix High School

SHAKESPEARE MASTER CLASS11.00am-1.30pmLyric Theatre

ECO ART11.00am-1.30pmBurlington Danes Academy

GOT TO DANCE CAMP11.00am-2.00pmHurlingham & Chelsea School

TENNIS CLUB1.00-3.00pmBishop’s Park

MULTI SPORTS CAMP1.00-4.00pmLinford Christie Stadium

STREET BALL – BASKETBALL1.00-4.00pmHurlingham & Chelsea School

FOOTBALL CAMP2.00-4.00pmLinford Christie Stadium

SKETCH SHOW2.30-5.00pmLyric Theatre

SCREEN PRINTING3.30-6.00pmSt Michael’s Centre

MASBRO YOUTH PROJECT5.00-8.00pm87 Masbro Road

OLD OAK YOUTH PROJECT 7.45-10.00pm76 Braybrook Street

TUESDAY 19THHAFAD PROGRAMME9.30am-4.30pmGreswell Centre


WEARABLE TECH11.00am-1.30pmBurlington Danes Academy

STREET THEATRE11.00am-1.30pmLyric Theatre

GOT TO DANCE CAMP11.00am-2.00pmHurlingham & Chelsea

ZUMBA AND FASHION DESIGN11.00am-3.00pmMasbro Centre


FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT UNDER 16s1.00-4.00pmLinford Christie Stadium



COMMEDIA DELL’ARTE2.30-5.00pmLyric Theatre

SCULPTURE3.30-6.00pmSt Michael’s Centre

WHITE CITY FOOTBALL CLUB5.00-7.00pmOld Oak Youth Project

FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT OVER 16s5.00-7.00pmLinford Christie Stadium


SULGRAVE YOUTH PROJECT6.30-9.30pm287 Goldhawk Road

WHITE CITY YOUTH PROJECT6.30-9.30pmFatima Centre

SANDS END YOUTH PROJECT6.45-9.45pmMarinefield Road

THURSDAY 21STHAFAD PROGRAMME9.30am-4.30pmGreswell Centre


BROADWAY11.00am-1.30pmLyric Theatre

CLOTHING CUT AND PASTE11.00am-1.30pmBurlington Danes Academy




KAYAKING CLUB1.00-3.00pmFurnivall Sculling Club



STREET DANCE2.30-5.00pmLyric Theatre

BISCUIT CITIES3.30-6.00pmSt Michael’s Centre

BRUNSWICK CLUB6.30-9.30pm34 Haldane Road

SULGRAVE YOUTH PROJECT6.30-9.30pm287 Goldhawk Road



WEDNESDAY 20THHAFAD PROGRAMME9.30am-4.30pmGreswell Centre


PHYSICAL THEATRE11.00am-1.30pmLyric Theatre

MOOD BOARD DESIGN AND FASHION11.00am-1.30pmBurlington Danes Academy






PUPPET MAKING2.30-5.00pmLyric Theatre

ELECTRONIC TEXTILES3.30-6.00pmSt Michael’s Centre

TWILIGHT STREET DANCE5.00-7.00pmWest London School for Dance




FRIDAY 22NDHAFAD PROGRAMME9.30am-4.30pmGreswell Centre


SINGING WITH FRIENDS11.00am-1.30pmLyric Theatre

BATIK11.00am-1.30pmBurlington Danes Academy




BASKETBALL JAM2.00-6.00pmEH&WL College


STORYTELLING2.30-5.00pmLyric Theatre

ANIMATION3.30-6.00pmSt Michael’s Centre

HIP HOP DANCE4.00-5.00pmMasbro Centre



COLLEGE PARK YOUTH PROJECT6.30-9.30pmCity Mission Community Project



SATURDAY 23RDSULGRAVE YOUTH PROJECT6.30-9.30pm287 Goldhawk Road

Storytelling LDFFriday 22 February2.30-5.00pmAge: 11-19From generation to generation stories are passed down. Using inspiration from African folktales, learn how to create an exciting, suspense filled story.Lyric Theatre Lyric Square, King Street, W6 0QL020 8741 6869 [email protected]

Hammersmith

ART AND FASHIONACTIVITIESEco Art – Recyclable LDFMonday 18 February11.00am-1.30pmAge: 11-19Fusing layers of plastic bags with an iron focussing on colour, words and icons. It’s exciting to make interesting designs from ordinary materials.Burlington Danes Academy Wood Lane, W12 0HR020 7352 3931 [email protected]

Wood Lane/White City

Screen Printing LDF

Monday 18 February3.30-6.00pmAge: 11-19Screen printing workshop

combines a printing technique

that uses woven mesh to support

an ink-blocking stencil, pumping

ink into the mesh openings.

Combining image transfers from

photocopies with stencil printing

on fabric, simple embroidery and

reverse appliqué.

St Michael’s Centre Townmead Road, Fulham SW6 2SR


Fulham Broadway/Parsons Green

Wearable Tech LDF

Tuesday 19 February11.00am-1.30pmAge: 11-19Learn how to make your own

soft circuit, using hand stitched

components and colourful LEDs,

along with basic crafting and sewing

skills to brighten up your clothes.

Burlington Danes Academy

Wood Lane, W12 0HR



Sculpture LDF

Tuesday 19 February3.30-6.00pmAge: 11-19Create sculptures out of chicken

wire, mod rock, fabric and

papier maché.




Mood Board Design and Fashion LDFWednesday 20 February11.00am-1.30pmAge: 11-19Learn some eye-catching design techniques, use them to make a mood board, and discover some professional fashion illustration techniques.

Burlington Danes Academy Wood Lane, W12 0HR020 7352 3931 [email protected]

Wood Lane/White CityElectronic Textiles LDFWednesday 20 February3.30-6.00pmAge: 11-19Learn the basics of electrical textiles by making cool ipod/MP3 and phone covers/cases that light up when used!St Michael’s Centre Townmead Road, Fulham SW6 2SR 020 7352 3931 [email protected]

Fulham Broadway/Parsons GreenClothing Cut and Paste LDFThursday 21 February11.00am-1.30pmAge: 11-19Design, customise, paint and sew tired garments and resurrect them as new creations of life using fabric paints, scrap fabric, jewellery pieces and fabric glue.

Burlington Danes Academy Wood Lane, W12 0HR020 7352 3931 [email protected]


Biscuit Cities LDF

Thursday 21 February3.30-6.00pmAge: 11-19Create a building from biscuits, wafers and other unusual architectural delicacies, cemented together with icing sugar. In this workshop you will work on creating a landscape and feast of edible town planning!




Batik LDF

Friday 22 February11.00am-1.30pmAge: 11-19Using a flour paste to create drawings and patterns on fabric, everyone can create and dye a t-shirt to take home.Burlington Danes Academy Wood Lane, W12 0HR020 7352 3931 [email protected]


Animation LDF

Friday 22 February3.30-6.00pmAge: 11-19Create your own music stop-motion animation using different and fun techniques and materials of your choice, and then watch it on the big screen!St Michael’s Centre Townmead Road, Fulham SW6 2SR



YOUTH PROJECTSOld Oak youth project Monday 7.45-10.00pm Tuesday 6.30-9.30pm and Friday 7.00-10.00pmAge: 13-1976 Braybrook Street, Old Oak, W12 7PH020 8969 2528

Masbro youth project LDFMonday 5.00-8.00pm Wednesday and Friday 6.00-9.00pmAge: 13-1987 Masbro Road, Shepherds Bush, W14 0LR020 7603 8172

White City youth project@Fatima CentreTuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 6.30-9.30pm Age: 13-19Fatima Centre, Commonwealth Avenue, White City, W12 7QR020 8969 2528

Sands End youth project Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 6.45-9.45pmAge: 13-19Marinefield Road, Adventure Playground in William Parnell Park020 7736 6572

Sulgrave youth projectTuesday, Thursday, Saturday 6.30-9.30pmAge: 13-19287 Goldhawk Road, Hammersmith, W12 8EU020 8748 3561

Brunswick Club

Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

6.30-9.30pmAge: 13-19

34 Haldane Road, Fulham, SW6 7EU

020 7385 4856

College Park youth project

Friday 6.30-9.30pmAge: 13-19

City Mission Community Project

2 Scrubs Lane, NW10 6RB

020 8964 6010

HOLIDAYPLAYSCHEMES

If you are looking for childcare

over the half-term period, check

out the Family Information

Service Directory:

0845 313 3933

[email protected]

www.lbhf.gov.uk/fisd

ACTIVITIES AND SERVICES FOR DISABLED YOUNG PEOPLE

All activities should be open to

all young people, including those

with disabilities. If you are unsure

whether they can access the

activities, give the project a call.

HAFAD holiday

programme LDF

Monday 18 to Friday 22 February

9.30am-4.30pmAge: 11-25

A week’s programme of activities

for young disabled people which

includes arts, dance, sports and

music production – advance

booking required

Greswell Centre Greswell Street, Fulham, SW6 6PX

020 7471 8510

Short Breaks (scheduled/

prearranged respite) LDF

The Haven offers both day based

and overnight stays for children

aged 9-18.

Disabled Children’s Team on

020 8753 3321

Sessional Carers

Service LDF

Access one-to-one carers services

for children and young people

to take part in activities or for

scheduled/prearranged respite.

Disabled Children’s Short Breaks Team 020 8753 2311/2312

The Antony Lillis

Playscheme LDF

Disabled Children’s Team

020 8753 3321

LIBRARIESFulham Library 598 Fulham Road, SW6 5NX020 8753 3877

Parsons Green

Hammersmith Library Shepherds Bush Road, W6 7ATTel: 020 8753 3823

Hammersmith BroadwayAskew Road Library87/91 Askew Road, W12 9ASTel: 020 8753 3863

Goldhawk Road/Shepherd’s Bush Market

Shepherds Bush Library 6 Wood Lane, W12 7BFTel: 020 8753 3842

Wood Lane/Shepherd’s Bush MarketMore information on Hammersmith & Fulham libraries is also available at www.lbhf.gov.uk/libraries and by calling 0303 123 0035, our 24 hour renewal and information line.

SPORT AND LEISURECENTRES

Fulham Pools Cost: Contact providerNormand Park, Lillie Road, SW6 7ST 020 7471 0450

West Brompton

Lillie Road Fitness Centre Cost: Contact providerLillie Road, SW6 7PD 020 7381 2183

Parsons Green

Hammersmith Fitness and Squash CentreCost: Contact providerChalk Hill Road, W6 8DW 020 8741 8028

Barons Court

Phoenix Fitness Centre and Janet Adegoke Swimming Pool Cost: Contact providerBloemfontein Road, W12 7DB020 8735 4900

White City

Linford Christie Outdoor Sports CentreCost: Contact providerArtillery Way, off Du Cane Road, Wormwood Scrubs, W12 OAE 07908 788739

East Acton

TENNIS COURTSBishops Park Cost: Contact provider

Bishops Park, SW6 6DX

020 7736 3854 www.rockslane.co.uk

Putney Bridge

Hammersmith Park Cost: FreeSouth Africa Road, W12

White City

Wormholt Park Cost: FreeBryony Road, Off Bloemfontein Road, W12

White City

OTHEROPPORTUNITIESSAFE Holiday Programme

18 to 22 February10.00am to 3.00pm Age: 8-16 Parents must also attend registration at 9.30am on Monday 18 February or pre-registration on Friday 15 February

between 4.00pm and 6.00pm or on Saturday

16 February between 9.00am and 12 noon.

Come and take part in a variety of activities including futsal, football, table tennis, box-fit and taster sessions in other sports (all participants must bring a packed lunch and water).

Phoenix High School, Bloemfontein Road entrance, adjacent to Phoenix Fitness Centre and Janet Adegoke Pool, Bloemfontein Road, W12 7DB

020 8749 1141 White City/Wood Lane

BUZZ 1.2013

63

Little People are taught that an apple a day can inspire their creativityu Technology is just easy-peasy for three-year-olds, writes Shan Ellis

AN APPLE a day keeps the boredom away. That’s the motto of Little People nurseries in

Fulham and Shepherds Bush as the chain announced that it is investing in iPads and iMacs for three and four-year-olds to use.

The pioneering centres say that computers are just one way that children are learning to use a range of technology in schools – a goal set out by the Government in the Early Years Foundation Stage guidelines.

“Computers do not replace traditional learning,” said Jane Gleasure, managing director of Little People Day Nurseries. “But working in pairs or small groups, children use their fingers to click on different icons to solve a puzzle or make

a painting onscreen, and then press a button to have it printed!”

Whether it is shapes, colours, numbers or listening activities, the nursery believes that teaching children about computers will be increasingly valuable in the future.

“Studies have shown children using computers at an early age make gains in intelligence, non-verbal skills, structural knowledge, long-term memory, manual dexterity, verbal skills, problem-solving, abstraction and conceptual skills,” Jane said.

“We believe that is true. But for us, it’s also just another fun activity to share within the Montessori schoolroom.”l For more details on Little People Day Nurseries, visit: www.littlepeople.co.uk

LITTLE CLICKER:

Let your fingers do the talking; a nursery pupil designs a new generation car

64

BUZZ 1.2013

PUPPETS, magicians, witches, unicorns and a pigeon driving a bus are all set to make your February half term and beyond enchanted at the Lyric Hammersmith in King Street.

Characters from all your favourite books will be treading the boards for your entertainment, including a stage version of Oliver Jeffries best-seller How To Catch a Star.

Published by Hammersmith-based HarperCollins, the story is about a boy who loved stars so much he wished he had one of his very own – so one day he decides to catch one! The show is recommended for ages three to seven, and runs February 19 to 23.

u Characters from books spring from the pages to make half term an enchanted time at the theatre for youngsters of all ages, reports Shan Ellis

Sky is the limit for kids at Lyric

65

BUZZ 1.2013

Later in the year, CBeebies star Patrick Lynch stars in Lyngo Theatre’s hilarious Egg & Spoon Show, a wonderful multi-sensory adventure for the under fives. Lie back on the floor cushions, and let Percy and April guide you through the year.

Taste the snow of winter and snuggle up beneath the night blanket on May 4.

For slightly older adventurers, help beggar girl Zoe save the faraway land of Joppardy from being swept away by fear generated by the evil Dr Slythe in Adrian and Sasha Mitchell’s Nobody Rides the Unicorn.

Zoe knows she must set the unicorn free, but will she be putting herself in terrible danger if she does? Beautifully crafted puppets, live music and moments of magic bring this original tale to life. For ages four to seven, on March 9.

Or watch out for a daydreaming pigeon in author and illustrator Mo Willems’ Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive The Bus!

Because when the bus driver takes a break, he’s bound to want to take it for a drive. Ages three to seven on April 6.

Each Saturday show is followed by a chance to get your hands dirty and paint your favourite character in the messy play workshop. You can even take a little magic from the day home with you.l For times, tickets and more details, visit: www.lyric.co.uk or call the box office on 020 8741 6850.

STARSTUDDED: Clockwise from top left, Oliver Jeffries’ How to Catch a Star, Nobody Rides the Unicorn, Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! and CBeebies star Patrick Lynch in the Egg & Spoon Show – all coming to the Lyric in the next few months

Sky is the limit for kids at Lyric

66

BUZZ 1.2013

BIG HUG: What does your family look like? Five local young people share their experiences

67

BUZZ 1.2013FAMILYRows over the telly, being embarrassed by dad and waiting in the queue for the bathroom... it’s so familiar!

ad


her shoes and school uniform; the afternoons cluttered with disputes about which radio station to listen to in the kitchen. And the weekends are still crammed with arguments about whose turn it is to clear the table and the evenings crowded with fights over where people sit to watch TV.

Having four sisters and one brother is very busy and disorganised, and involves daily shouting matches about ‘borrowing’ each other’s clothes. But I can’t imagine living in a smaller family, and wouldn’t give my family up for anything.

Nada MoNtagueI have a big family. There are eight children (including me), with two sisters who are called Hana, 12, and Salsabeel, 11. I have five brothers, Omar, five, Ibrahim seven, Mahmood, eight, Mahammed, 18, and last but

W hat’s life like in your home? Is your pet pampered? does your sister

get on your nerves? You’re not alone! Five h&f buzz writers share the highs and lows of being part of a busy family in 2013.

BeatrIce WarreNWith six children in my family, it is rarely quiet. However, the chaotic household seems to have become a peaceful dwelling since the eldest daughter, Octavia, moved out to university.

Although there are still five children in the house, it seems much quieter and more peaceful knowing that the table is missing one person; it makes it feel bare and empty at supper.

However the mornings are still littered with everyone racing for the bathroom and searching for his or

BUZZ 1.2013

68

not least Abdurrahman, who is 19. We may all have fights, but we

sometimes eat with each other. My parents somehow cope with us lot.

We have a new family member – he joined us in July. He is a grey and black tabby cat! He has four white socks and a few white bits under his neck, above his tummy and under his tummy. His name is Captain Ninja Jack, we call him Jack or Jackmo, and he is five months old.

Archie Scott In the Scott home, there are often arguments and competitions.

There is an argument every single meal time over where the three sisters will sit; they all usually try to get the seat on the corner nearest the middle of the room.

These arguments can get quite intense when one person gets up and returns to find their seat taken. This raises an argument about whether they had left their seat or whether they were just coming back.

Similar arguments are present when it comes to deciding where to sit when watching the television.

The two places on either end of the sofa are fought over often until there are tears! The two front seats in the back of the car are also viciously fought over; huge wars begin with grudges which often last for days!

This is why I try to avoid the car.

FrAnceScA Scott There are six people in my family. I have two little sisters called Taisy and Xanthe. Unusual names I know…

Taisy is short for Anastasia, she’s nine and can be really annoying at times. But she’s also funny and a bit mad. Xanthe is six. She’s just a really smily, happy person. My sisters like to wear my clothes.

Then there’s my older brother Archie. He is 15 and he loves to annoy me! He doesn’t like it when I ask him questions; he thinks I’m stupid but I’m not!

It’s fun to embarrass my family. I like acting really uncool around my sister’s friends. My dad embarrassed us once when I was rowing with friends and he came to the river bank and shouted my name. It was awful!

I’m not part of a huge family, but it’s not small either. We always fight about what to watch on TV or which chair we sit in. We also disagree a lot. Sometimes it feels like there should be a fifth child, but six in my family is perfect for me.

We are a strange family but I can’t imagine being with anyone else.

hAnAn FAiSAlI live with both of my parents and my two young brothers.

At times it can be agitating having two brothers and no sisters. However, it can be cool because you have siblings to have fun with.

In the mornings, it can be a hassle because I have to impatiently wait for my brothers to leave the bathroom.

Also, I hate it when my favourite programme is on and my brother decides to randomly change the channel. I couldn’t imagine myself being the only child – I would despise the feeling of isolation!

LEAVE ME

ALONE: Loving

families can still

have fights, our young

writers suggest

STORY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 67

69

BUZZ 1.2013

A training centre for these stable pupils

uMuseum’s teaching base made possible by the generosity of an admirer, writes Tim Harrison

Sandford Award for Heritage Education from the Heritage Education Trust.

The award, valid for five years, recognises quality and excellence in the educational services and facilities at a site.

The Grade I-listed Fulham Palace was the country residence of the bishops of London for centuries, right up until 1973. Since April 2011, the palace has been managed by the Fulham Palace Trust.

The education service welcomes more than 100 school classes a year to learn about the history of the site.

Pupils from local schools Sir John Lillie and Flora Gardens were among the first to use the new facilities.

Sessions include toys, creepy crawlies, Romans, Tudors and the Second World War. The Jessie Mylne Education Centre houses Fulham Palace’s extensive costume collection.

Admission to the palace and its grounds is free. For more details, visit: www.fulhampalace.org

a dedicated home. The centre will serve schoolchildren and families, and there is an office upstairs for staff.

The opening ceremony also served as a thank-you to part-time education officer Jenny Kershaw, who has worked at Fulham Palace for 18 years.

Her replacement is Eleanor Sier, who has joined the palace as the learning officer.

Fulham Palace is celebrating gaining a commendation in the

AN EDUCATION centre, named after a prominent Hammersmith

resident, has opened in a stable block in Fulham Palace.

The Jessie Mylne centre is named after the last surviving member of the Scott family of Ravenscourt Park.

Born in 1854, she died in 1940 and left a bequest to Hammersmith Council which was eventually used to set up the Museum of Fulham Palace, which opened in 1992.

Her gift has also made possible the education centre, opened in what used to be the palace’s Victorian stable block by the mayor, Cllr Belinda Donovan.

Fulham Palace has provided an education service for years, but now has

ALL HAIL CAESAR:

Pupils from Sir John Lillie

School in Fulham enjoy

dressing up in ancient garb

70

BUZZ 1.2013 DON’T ORDER IT –MAKE IT!

I’ve always

loved pizza, and it’s so easy to make. In fact,

it’s an absolutely topping experience, says

Beatrice Warren. Follow her kitchen tips and you’ll soon be creating your own tasty feast

IngredIentsl 450g of flour (strong white bread flour)l ½ a tablespoon (the big serving spoon) of sugarl 1 teaspoon of saltl 6g (½ to ¾ of a sachet) of instant yeastl 100ml of extra virgin olive oill 300-350ml of warm water

HOW tO MAKe1 Sift the flour into a food processor, add the salt, sugar and instant yeast and turn it on at full speed.

2 Add 2 tablespoons of the olive oil through the feeder tube and then half the warm water (pour it in slowly while the food processor is still on).

3 Add the rest of the water a spoonful at a time, until the mixture changes from a breadcrumb consistency to a slightly sticky ball of dough.

4 Leave the food processor on for another 5 minutes.

5 Put the dough on a lightly floured surface and knead it (work and stretch the dough) by hand for 3 minutes.

6 Brush a little olive oil on the edges of a bowl, then put in the dough in a ball and cover this in a little bit more olive oil.

7 Cover the bowl with a cloth and put it in a warm place until it has doubled in size (this should take about an hour).

8 Put the oven to its highest temperature half an hour before you want to start cooking the pizza.

9 Knock the dough down (remove the air by kneading it again) and divide it into two pieces.

10 On a very floury surface, flatten out both halves of the dough.

11 Put a little olive oil on the pizza again and then add your toppings before putting the pizza in the oven for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is completely melted.

eXtrA eXtrA!I like adding some buffalo mozzarella (around 100g on each pizza), cutting it into little squares and sprinkling it over the top. It is also quite nice to have some tomato salad on the side to make your fresh pizza meal a bit more interesting.

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BUZZ 1.2013

WELL I’ve gone from burning toast to making a pizza... so I thought I would share this with you so we can conquer the myth that young people can’t cook!

Sometimes it is quite nice to eat a pizza you made yourself; it is easy, quick and you can decorate it however you want – no fussing over who wants which topping. You can make your own little pizza and put as many (or as few) toppings on it as you want. So below I’m sharing my favourite pizza recipe. Try it – don’t be frightened! It’s easy...

LITTLE CHEF: For extra flavour,

add chunks of buffalo mozzarella

BACK TO THE FUTURE

72

BUZZ 1.2013

raise aspirations and restore rigour.”

He recognised that some people might be concerned that the change could lead to more students failing, but warned against the fatalism of thinking that great teaching can do little to help pupils of all abilities succeed.

Under the new system, pupils will sit one test at the end of their second year of study, as used to be the case with O Levels, rather than taking modular GCSE exams with coursework submitted over two years.

To prevent some exam boards setting easier tests

uA shake-up of the exam system is looming, harking back to the 1980s. Hajar Ragab checks reaction to the new English Baccalaureate

The Government is planning to replace GCSes with the new english

Baccalaureate from 2015.Outlining details of

the new qualification in the House of Commons, Education Secretary Michael Gove confirmed that the exam, based on O Levels, would be more rigorous than GCSEs.

He said: “GCSEs were conceived and devised at a different time, for a different world.

“The old model, the 1980s model, is no longer right for now. We believe it is time to

BACK TO THE FUTURE

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BUZZ 1.2013

than others, there will be only one authority setting all tests in each subject.

Hajar Ragab, h&f buzz young yeporter, looks at how young people in the borough are reacting to the new exam.

G OODBYE GCSEs. Hello O Levels! From September 2015, all young

people in the UK will need to take the new test. But is it a good move to scrap GCSEs?

The first of the new-style exams will take place during the summer term of 2017.

I know some of you may think this is miles aways and this will never affect you! However, this overhaul of GCSEs is the biggest reform in schools exams for a generation.

As pass rates have been increasing every year since the introduction of the GCSE in the 1980s, O Level-style qualifications – to be called English Baccalaureate Certificates (EBCs) – will replace the current GCSE examinations and will be introduced in traditional academic subjects such as English, maths, humanities and science to limit the

number of top grades achieved.

So this will potentially mean working harder for lower grades and this will make it harder for young people to get into college and university when it is already difficult.

I’m sure most of us would prefer A* grades. On the other hand, it makes it harder to differentiate between the top students in terms of applying for uni.

The O Level-style qualification consists of a traditional three-hour exam at the end of the two years

ALL SMILES: Pupils rejoice

after receiving their GCSE results at

Burlington Danes. But will pupils still be

celebrating in 2017 when a new exam

is introduced?


Fulham Broadway says: Konnichiwa! Ciao!

Olá Hello!You’ve just got in and you’re out on your feet.

You’ve spent all day in the office, the last thing you want to do is spend all night in the kitchen.

Let’s go eat Sushi you suggest but you know he’s thinking Italian. How about Peri Peri?

Preferring pizza he replies.

OK, it’s a wrap! No it’s not, it’s a pizza.

www.fulhambroadway.co.uk

OYSTER ROOMSNANDO’SPIZZA EXPRESSYO! SUSHIWAGAMAMAON-SITE, SECURE PARKING

‘‘75

BUZZ 1.2013

of studying, which means that no modular assessment contributes to the final grade of the pupil.

Due to this, many young people are against the axing of the GCSE as they believe that this new examination style will only favour the most academically able students.

So what chance will pupils have to shine with the new test, and is it fair that they are subject to the new system while their predecessors have had an easier ride?

In addition, it has also been announced that the CSE (Certificate of Secondary Education), similar to the older-style qualification, will also be reintroduced as an alternative to O Levels for pupils that are less academically able.

Education Secretary Michael Gove explained: “Children are working harder than ever, but we are hearing that the system is not working for them.”

Many believe the contrary; they believe that this system is working for the majority of students, which is borne out by the increasing pass rates.

Also, many say that this major reform will damage the quality of secondary school education and that it is not clear it will ensure a breadth of knowledge and skills.

They argue that pupils will be discouraged from continuing to study English and maths until the age of 18, and that changes in the examination system alongside the raising of the school leaving age is not a good idea.

Nevertheless, one

BYE BYE GCSESONE EXAM BOARD

IS VERY GOOD NEWS FOR ALL PUPILS

STORY CONTINUEd fROm PAGE 73

NEW WORLD:

Hurlingham & Chelsea pupil collects her

GCSEs

advantage of this reform that has been supported by the vast majority of people is the fact that there will, in future, only be a single examination board that will set the O Level papers for English, maths and science.

The aim of this is to prevent competition between the different exam boards, with the result that all pupils will take the same exam.

Children are working harder

than ever, but we are hearing that

the system is not working for them

76

BUZZ 1.2013

I N INSPIRATION to teenagers in Hammersmith & Fulham, the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme is still bringing out the

best in the borough’s youngsters.Proving that resourcefulness,

courage and determination know no bounds, dozens of successful youngsters proudly received the certificates they had earned in the suitably grand location of

u For more than 50 years, the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme has helped teenagers challenge themselves and develop new skills. Record numbers of Hammersmith & Fulham young people now take part, reports Tim Harrison

DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARDS 2012

PROUD: Lady Margaret pupils celebrate their certificates

77

BUZZ 1.2013

Hammersmith Town Hall, with presentations made by Cllr Helen Binmore, H&F cabinet member for children’s services.

She gave out more than 80 DofE bronze and silver awards to young borough achievers, and congratulated them on their hard work and commitment.

H&F has 13 centres delivering the DofE awards, with record numbers of young people taking part in a programme which has run for more than half a century.

Join in the fun at Burlington Danes Academy, Hammersmith Academy, Fulham College Boys’, Lady Margaret, Phoenix High,

Sacred Heart High, The Moat, William Morris Sixth Form, Hafad, St James Girls, St Paul’s Boys and, from September, the West London Free School.l If you are interested in taking part in the DofE ask your school/college DofE co-ordinator or email Jesse Foyle, DofE manager for LBHF: [email protected]

ALL OF THE DofE

AWARDS PHOTOS ONLINE AT:www.lbhf.

gov.uk/duke

HAPPY: All smiles from Sacred Heart High School pupils with their awards

JOY: Lads from Fulham Boys College show off their DofE awards

78

BUZZ 1.2013Lady Gaga once rightly said: “don’t

you ever let a soul in the world tell you that you can’t be exactly who you are.”

However, as young people, to be ourselves in a world that is constantly trying to make us something else is proving to be a very challenging task.

With images of picture-perfect models plastered on billboards, the internet and even on our well-loved big red buses, teenagers (girls and boys alike) are constantly asked to believe that the better your body looks, the more popular and liked you are.

Of course, this pressure is often the reason why many young people in our communities are fooled into believing that dangerous and fatal diseases such as anorexia and bulimia can help them become as picture-perfect as the celebrities and models which have taken over our lives.

According to a survey carried out by Bliss magazine recently, 63 per cent of young people said they felt pressured into changing their appearance. But when the survey asked from where the pressure came, the majority said it was from the media.

I asked Sarah Hassanain and Osna Sultani, both 14 and from Chelsea, what they thought of these surprising results.

Sarah told me: “It is the manipulated pictures in the media that continue to give us false images of what our bodies should look like.”

Osna agreed, and added: “It is these images that create unfair expectations for young people. We’re

Is it dangerous to make teenagers believe they should have bodies as perfect as the models in fashion magazines? Heba Kusseibati asks if the pressure can lead to eating disorders

BORNTHIS Way


79

BUZZ 1.2013

Lady Gaga, below, said it best... But are children being unfairly targeted by the media?

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BUZZ 1.2013

By drawing pictures of my feelings towards bullies, I overcame my anger and frustration and found ignoring the bully much easier‘‘

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 78told that in order to blend in with society, we should look like these celebrities.”

What is extremely upsetting, however, is the fact that the young people who have fallen victim to an eating disorder are unaware of the dangerous consequences they are facing.

To get an understanding of this issue, a few of my peers were asked to share their thoughts.

Sahar Messenger, aged 13, from Fulham, said: “Anorexia can affect young people’s lives in general, because it makes concentrating in school harder, as it weakens the brain.”

Miski Mohamed, aged 13 from Hammersmith, said: “Anorexia is dangerous. Some may think it’s good, but it isn’t, because it can kill.”

When I asked some of my peers what advice they would give to young people who lack confidence in their looks, they had the following to say.

Aya Yazidi, aged 14 from Fulham, said: “My advice would be to make yourself healthier by eating healthy food and doing normal amounts of exercise, instead of being anorexic.”

Angie Reda-Kahila, aged 15 from Hammersmith, said: “You must believe in yourself and that your natural, original figure is the best image instead of trying to fit yourself into a fake image which wouldn’t suit you.”

Another confidence-drainer which many young people constantly fall victims to is bullying.

I spoke to Aya Yazidi, who is well known among her peers for being caring and helpful to everyone.

Aya said: “Bullying is very wrong, because the victim is constantly being humiliated.” When I asked Aya what advice she had for anyone being bullied, she said: “Contact childline for advice, or change your number and e-mail and make sure you only give both to the people you trust.”

Personally, when I used to get bullied, I tried all sorts of ways to solve my situation. I repeatedly visited the headteacher’s office to confide in her, but she would always give me the same reassurance and reply, which didn’t exactly change anything. I even confronted the bully herself and told her everything I thought of her... but that didn’t work.

However, there was one way of easing my frustration that I found most comforting.

I wrote poems, stories and even drew pictures of my feelings towards all bullies. I felt that slowly, by maintaining this, I overcame my anger and frustration, and found ignoring the bully much easier.

If you are being bullied, my advice would be to never let the bully’s opinion of you define who you are, and remember, the bully is only trying to bring you down because they know you are above them.

If you are being bullied, or know someone that is, and aren’t quite sure what to do, remember to contact childline on 0800 1111.

Other than bullying and body image, young people nowadays feel less confident about their progress at school, which has been reflected in the big drop in GCSE results this year.

Of course, education is important. Aya Yazidi said: “Education is important because it helps you achieve the goals you’re aiming for in life.”

Miski Mohamed said: “Education helps young people have a brighter future and school also helps young people socialise.”

Angie Reda-Kahila said: “Education opens doors for us in the future which we will not be able to open without an education”. Since she is now in her final year of secondary school, I asked her what doing her GCSEs was like. “GCSEs are very stressful

81

BUZZ 1.2013

‘‘to me, because it is these grades that will determine whether or not I will have a good future,” she said.

My maths teacher, Mr Becker, has continually supported me through my studies, and has never failed to encourage us.

Does he think students are taking their education less seriously today? “Students are well aware of how important education is,” he said. “However, some students realise later than others, and therefore don’t achieve their potential.”

I also asked Mr Becker what advice he would give to students who feel stressed about their progress at school. He said: “My advice would be to develop a short-term and long-term plan and to set yourself realistic and smart targets.”

I asked my peers about what advice they would give to students who feel stressed:

Ksenia Shilina said: “My advice would be not to panic; take it seriously, but not too seriously, or else you’ll only make learning harder for yourself.”

Aya Yazidi said: “My advice would be to use your school planners wisely to organise your time and to make use of the resources around you to help you gain the help and knowledge you need.”

Being young isn’t easy, but it is a stage everyone goes through. Try and enjoy these days; be confident and happy, and take risks. We are that generation, and all we need is confidence.

n A good website for both young people and parents about the emotional health and wellbeing of children www.youngminds.org.uk

n The NHS has special Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services based in Hammersmith www.camhscares.nhs.uk

n Anorexia and Bulimia Care (ABC) has 23 years of experience as a UK national eating disorder organisationwww.anorexiabulimiacare.org.uk

n Or ask a parent, your local GP or your school nurse for any help with anorexia, bulimia or any other problem you are experiencing.

NEED HELP?

82

BUZZ 1.2013

ADINGY old church hall near Ravenscourt Park tube station has

been transformed into a lively community theatre space.

The old hall in Ravenscourt Road has been restored and redecorated from floor to ceiling, and

now boasts impressive sound and lighting systems, and even a built-in smoke effects machine. It has been named Ravenscourt Arts.

It can seat up to 180 people, and has already hosted a shoal of arts events including The Shakespearience, a free production in which actors affiliated to the Royal

u Run-down building in Hammersmith is transformed into lively performance space, with a selection of Shakespearean scenes taking centre stage. Tim Harrison reports on the rebirth of an underused church hall

HALL OR NOTHING

83

BUZZ 1.2013

Shakespeare Company from the Bard’s Stratford upon Avon home performed sections of Romeo and Juliet, the Merchant of Venice and Macbeth to young audiences.

During a week of shows in October, more than 1,300 people saw the production, including youngsters from 14 local primary and secondary schools, including St Paul’s School, Avonmore School, Flora Gardens, John Betts, St Peter’s, Miles Coverdale, Acton High, Sion-Manning girls’ school, Brackenbury, Melcombe, St Mary’s, Queen’s Manor and Parayhouse School.

It featured Elizabethan and medieval era music played by Perkelt, a band from the Czech Republic.

The rebirth of the underused hall attached to Ravenscourt Baptist Church was masterminded by senior minister Darren Hirst, whose background is in music journalism and record production.

His vision has been to design a space to attract a wide range of different activities to the building.

Stefan Reckless, who is in charge of young people’s and children’s activities at the church, told h&f buzz: “The old hall, and the building itself, was quite run down, and Darren had the idea of transforming it for performing arts use.”

The space has recently been used for a Polish-language children’s theatre

performance of Aladdin, while the new-look hall has also hosted several fashion shows, featuring a catwalk snaking through the seats.

Also on the cards in coming weeks are several music events, one featuring a band from Poland.

Other activities for young people at Ravenscourt Baptist Church include Frantic Fridays, the youth club for eight to 11-year-olds, and a Tuesday night senior youth club for 11 to 16s.l For information about the youth clubs, or about hiring the performance space, call Stefan Reckless on 07807 666 220, or email: [email protected]

HALL OR NOTHING

IT’S HALL SMILES: Clockwise from left, Shakespeare hits the stage; the work in progress on the hall; Stefan Reckless takes centre stage; Slawek Bednarski adjusts the new lighting rig; and a production in Polish

84

BUZZ 1.2013 TAKE

u The revolution starts here! Young people from the borough swept into the offices of the town hall to take charge of Hammersmith & Fulham and learn how a busy London authority is run, writes Javan Rose

85

BUZZ 1.2013TAKE OVERT EENAGERS

took over the town hall to run Hammersmith &

Fulham for the day! Youth Takeover Day

saw 40 youngsters shadow council officers to learn what they do and see how our local council is run.

From web designers to library managers, staff were joined at their desks and in their offices by young people.

It was a chance for us to share our views about the local area with council officers.

Pupils from Fulham Cross, Phoenix, Lady Margaret and Bridge Academy took part in working at the town hall for a day. November’s STORY CONTINUES ON PAGE 86

86

BUZZ 1.2013 TAKEOVER

event finished with an awards ceremony and a presentation in the council chamber at Hammersmith Town Hall, presided over by H&F mayor Belinda Donovan.

For me, the best part of the idea of Youth Takeover Day is that it is a day dedicated to helping teenagers on their path to independence.

It allows young people to work with adults and gain the experience that will benefit them in their years of employment,

enabling both generations to learn from one another while the voices of the young are being heard.

Other young people agreed. “It was really interesting and such a fun experience. I’d love to do it again,” said Georgia French, 14, who worked as a mystery shopper with Trading Standards.

“It was a great opportunity and I learnt so much about council services,” agreed Zen Erasmus, 13, who worked in Economic Development.

CONTINUED FROM ON PAGE 85

hear us roar:

From left, Shakur Abdi receives his award from

H&F mayor Belinda Donovan; Basak

Erten, Laura Ramnath and Javan Rose are

photographers for the day; and a packed council chamber

87

BUZZ 1.2013TAKEOVER

WHAT SKILLS HAVE YOU BROUGHT TO YOUR JOB AND WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED?Passion for working with young people and enabling them to have a voice. Being flexible, creative, down-to-earth and approachable and fun-loving. Ability to negotiate between the wishes of young people and demands of the role, council priorities and available resources.

WHAT IS YOUR MAIN ROLE IN YOUTH TAKEOVER DAY AND HOW DOES IT FIT IN WITH YOUR EVERYDAY JOB?I was project co-ordinator for Youth Takeover Day. This is the second year we have run the event and it is my favourite project of the year as it is an opportunity for council services (including those that would never usually work with young people) to open their doors to young people and to enable them to make decisions about things affecting them in their borough.My role is to enable young people to influence decision-making and to actively shape the services they receive. This is a really effective way of doing that, which is fun, meaningful and useful for both staff and young people.

WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND WHEN IT COMES TO WORKING WITH YOUNG PEOPLE?Thirteen years’ experience working with young people in various different roles, including as a youth worker, Connexions Personal Adviser and project worker, a trainer and a Youth Voice Co-ordinator.

HOW DO YOU REACH OUT TO YOUNG PEOPLE?Through events such as Youth Takeover Day and our youth projects including the Borough Youth Forum, UK Youth Parliament elections and, of course, h&f buzz newspaper where young people can write and have their articles published on things that matter to them and affect them in their borough. We have an annual survey for young people across the borough to find out what the top issues are for them and the topic becomes the focus for the Borough Youth Forum for the year ahead. There is also the H&F Youth Involved Facebook, a page that we use to consult young people and that they can use to

get in touch with us and comment on our services. Our Borough Youth Forum and Young Advisers also spend a lot of time out and about, speaking to young people in youth clubs, and on the streets to find out their views and promote opportunities.If young people are interested in getting involved in any of these projects they can email: [email protected]

HOW DID YOU COME TO WORK IN YOUR JOB? DO YOU ENJOY IT?After years of working in the youth sector, I developed a passion for youth participation

and developing projects to enable young people to find their voices. I have been doing the job since 2009 and I absolutely love it. For me, it’s the best job in the world, because I get to do different things every day and to work with young people.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE PEOPLE WHO WANT TO WORK IN THE SAME ROLE AS YOU?Get out there and get as much experience as possible, volunteer to develop your skills – there are loads of opportunities with H&F Volunteer Centre and I welcome anyone wanting to volunteer on our youth voice projects, including the Borough Youth Forum.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUNG ADULTS ABOUT THE WORLD OF WORK?Same as above! Try out different roles by volunteering and find what you are good at – and most importantly what you enjoy!

Throughout Youth Takeover Day, my friends and I learned many important

things about the council and local government. But for more details,

I asked Brenda Whinnett (who is pictured right), H&F Council’s Youth Voice Co-ordinator and organiser of the Youth Takeover Day about what it’s like to work for the council

INTERVIEW BY JAVAN ROSE

‘‘This is really effective. It is fun, meaningful and useful for both

staff and young people

88

BUZZ 1.2013 TIME TO SAYGOODBYEHELLO! I’m Darnell, I’m 13

years old, and I am an ex-young reporter for h&f buzz. My time as a young reporter has been

great; there have been highs and not-so-highs, but my fellow young reporters and I have always seen it through. Here is my story about my time as a young reporter for h&f

buzz, and some of the rewards and challenges I have encountered...

DAY 1: THE VERY START Before I joined the Young Reporters

(and it couldn’t be easier... just send an

email to [email protected]) I was looking for an opportunity to get some experience as a journalist. I particularly enjoyed photography and wanted a chance to present my skills.

It just so happened that at a meeting with the youth commissioners at Hammersmith & Fulham Council, I was offered the opportunity to do the thing I wanted to do – journalism. I immediately applied to join the Young Reporters’ group and from

there my journey began.

MEETINGSThe first meeting was interesting. Everyone was a ‘first timer’ as the Young Reporters group had just

been created and the first edition of h&f buzz hadn’t yet been made. We started by introducing ourselves and we were given an introduction about the newspaper, and what we were actually going to do. We were then told that we’d gain various skills such as interview techniques which you could put on your CV. I was even more intrigued.After the first meeting I was stunned; I never thought a young person like me would be given an opportunity this great! I was definitely coming back.

The second meeting was about choosing a name for the newspaper, and getting ready to start writing our articles.

We all came in and begun to discuss possible newspaper names. It was a long and difficult process, names were all over the place, debates were everywhere, but we came to a conclusion, the name had to be BUZZ! It was short, catchy and just right.

Eventually, as the meeting progressed, we started to talk about creating our articles, and what we were then going to do. Soon I came to the decision that I wanted to write an article about video games, and the positive and negative effects of them.

Save 10% when you

book online

FOR OUR SUPER SUMMER PLAY FEATURE SEE PAGES 4-5>>

SUMMER IN THE CITY

Shakespeare classic is

done H&F-style – and

other fun challenges

YOU DID IT!RIOTS PAGES

25-37

www.lbhf.gov.uk Issue 1 September 2011

INSIDE XXXXXXXXX SEE PAGE XX XXX SEE PAGE XX

other fun challenges PAGES10 &

52-53

RECORD A LEVEL & GCSE RESULTSYOUR VIEWS...

Face painting? Hula

hoops? Yes, and much

more to provide fun for

families in the borough

CHILD’S PLAYALL was bright and beau-

tiful as four-year-old Molly

Newman-Richard got into

the spirit of things at a party

to bring some summer fun.

Face painting and hula

hoops were the order of the

day as children enjoyed events

at the Masbro Centre in West

Kensington and Randolph

Beresford in White City.Buzz sent photographers

down to the centres to capture

images of the activities – and

we have a picture special to

showcase it all.

SUMMER IN THE CIT

Shakespeare classic is

done H&F-style – and

other fun challenges

PAGE8

89

BUZZ 1.2013

u I’d always wanted to be a young reporter, so I jumped at the chance to fire questions and take photographs! Darnell Christie joins the world of editorial meetings, deadlines and snappers

TIME TO SAYGOODBYE

I thought it would be just the right topic to get me started on my

journalism journey. We were given a

couple of months to create our articles, with other meetings to discuss our progress... and this was the hard part. A few days later I chose to make a start on my article. Research was the first step.

I spent hours on the computer and in the library, researching things to do with video games.

THE RESEARCHAt first I actually enjoyed doing all the

research. It was great fun and I gained

a lot of knowledge, but I did soon get

a little tired.

What kept me going was my motivation. Every day my article seemed to get bigger and better, and I was quite content with what I had achieved so far.

The next point was to start interviewing and taking pictures, which I was really avid to do. However I needed time.

I had to think about all the questions I needed answered, and which ones were really relevant.

It did take a while, but I did it. All that was left now was to interview. Finally for me the best part was here. I hit the streets of Hammersmith & Fulham and started ‘firing’ questions and ‘snapping’ pictures.It was really interesting to hear everyone’s views – they were mixed, passionate and simply entertaining to read. That was what I was aiming for. Soon, all I had to do was to fit all of the interviews and photos into my article.

The deadline was reached, the articles were edited and submitted for the first edition of the newspaper (pictured on opposite page).‘‘The deadline was reached, the articles

were edited... the anxiety then began!

48

49

BUZZ 2.2012

BUZZ 2.2012

Games can benefit

people and help get

some types of jobs

EVERYONE has an opinion on video games – your mum, dad, grandparents, teachers, politicians, media and scientists – and whether they are a good influence on young people or not.Video games can be good or bad depending on what they’re about. A study carried out by the BBC showed that in Britain alone, a third of children in their early teens

Are you playing a mug’sAccording to research, it can even make young people’s brains think harder and be more active.

Another study from a parenting website showed that people who played educational video games gained valuable long-term skills such as surgical skills. You may be wondering how video games are related to better surgical skills – well, it’s because in video games, especially those that involve having to aim at a target, include hand-eye co-ordination.This skill is a very good one to have in many jobs and not just useful in surgery.

Lastly, video games are just generally a much more fun and interesting way to learn, and some may think its much better than writing all the time. This is very healthy for the brain, and speaking of health, video games can be very physical, and reduce the risks of high blood pressure, strokes and cancer. Video games can be real life savers! Or at least I think so...However, we also have to remember that some video games are not as helpful as others and some scientists have linked aggression, anti-social behaviour, obesity and serious addiction to violent games. There are many that can influence young people’s mind because of the negativity involved within them and the violence – this is why age ratings are essential on video games.After my research I went out on the streets of H&F to find out what young people really think about video games.I managed to interview 10 youngsters aged 13-18, male and female. When I asked the young people if they believe that they should be able to play any game, no matter of the age rating, 80 per cent said yes and age ratings shouldn’t apply. However, a girl aged 15, who wanted to remain anonymous,

did say: “I believe that anyone should be able to play video games of any age because some people may have a more developed, sensible mind from a younger age than others.”I also wanted to find out what type of games young p e o p l e mostly play. Most of those I asked – 60 per cent – preferred to play war and action type games. The rest preferred to play p l a t f o r m

g a m e s such as M a r i o Brothers.

W h e n I asked t h e m w h e t h e r they were a w a r e of the p o s s i b l e effects of p l a y i n g v i d e o g a m e s , especially the popular war and action games, half of them said they did.

A 14-year-old boy said: “Yes, I do realise the effect that video games cause. I have realised that sometimes some people can suffer from the impact of video games, and a small number of lives have been partly ruined. But, I also know that games can benefit people and help people get some types of jobs.” However, half of those I asked still didn’t realise there were any effects from playing these types of video games. As we’ve seen, video games can be good or bad depending on what they’re about – they can help you or be absolutely no use at all.

Many games have side effects and can influence the minds of young people in particular, but can really b e n e f i t

‘‘

GAME? Video games provide a huge bit of business

for companies – but are they harmful or simply

harmless for young people? Darnell Christie

takes a closer look

played video games on a daily basis, and seven per cent of children played at least 30 hours a week.This study also showed that when using video games in education it benefited children immensely as many young people who played video games got good grades in their exams. Some young people even went on to higher education which shows some video games can be helpful.

Josephine Onwubiko, 18, right, completely detests violent video game. She says such games would certainly cause an impact on our society. She believes video games should be monitored closely by the parents of the children who play them.

Frederick Gill, 15, left, says he is aware of the negative and positive effects of video games. He believes most games are good.

Ezra Gill, 13, right, says he isn’t aware of the positive and negative effects of video games. He says that most video games have a good effect on society but not every game is good.

Fourteen-year-old Keisha Morris says she is aware of the positive and negative effects of video games. She adds that many video games, but not all, can lead to violence in our society. Keisha (below) said: “I think that violent video games do lead to violence in our society.“When I am in class people throw pencils and rubbers at each other saying ‘head shot!’ or ‘five streak kill’. This is what is on the video games and the young people are copying it, as it is glorified.”

YOUR SHOUT


The council has a limited amount of funding to help homeowners and private tenants install new energy efficient boilers and provide loft and cavity wall insulation. Boilers account for around 60% of what you spend in a year on energy bills, so an efficient boiler makes a big difference.If you have no central heating or an inefficient F or G-rated boiler (often over 12 years old) you may be entitled to funding for a gas central heating installation or a new energy efficient A rated boiler. The scheme is available to homeowners and private tenants who are in receipt of certain benefits or aged 70 or over. All free work is subject to funding availability, a technical survey, and must be installed by 31 March 2013. This scheme is available on a first come, first served basis.

We can fund a free Green Deal Assessement for all households, which will identify all recommended energy efficiency improvements that can be carried out. This will enable you to take advantage of the new Government finance initiative called the Green Deal.

For more information on the Green Deal go to the website:

www.gov.uk/green-deal-energy-saving-measures/how-the-green-deal-works.

To find out if you qualify please contact us on:

020 8753 1237 We will arrange a suitable time for an assessor to come and check your heating system. Email [email protected]

Funding for energy efficient improvements for homeowners

Hammersmith & Fulham Council

91

BUZZ 1.2013

GOOD BYE

CONTINUED ON PAGES 4&5>>

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New schools in Fulham and Hammersmith will help pupils and parents stay local

N EW schools are coming to help o�er local pupils and parents more places in borough

schools as the population soars.Over the next two years, the

number of local youngsters in need of a school place will grow by about 10 per cent. The explosion in the number of school-age children means that the new borough schools will allow more pupils and parents to stay local.

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PAGE121

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PAGES72-104

CONTINUED ON PAGE 11>>

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served with fries and coleslaw

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WHAT THE DICKENS?

POP IN!

PENALTY SHOOT-OUT DRAMA!

OLIVER COMES TO FULHAM!

Blues hitman wows students with playground kickabout ahead of major Munich final

W HERE do Chelsea players warm up for the Champions League �nal? On Burlington

Danes’ arti�cial turf, of course.Striker Daniel Sturridge (pictured

left, and with head Sally Coates) visited the academy after the Blues’ semi-�nal win in Barcelona, and just before the FA Cup victory against Liverpool.

The 22-year-old forward – a sub in both games – enjoyed a kickabout with students, signed shirts, posed for pictures... and even handed over his

MAYOR’S CUP JOY! PAGES

34-35

£5 OFF! CHILDREN’S

BOOKS AT FOYLES!

SEE PAGE 10

PAGES 66-71

www.lbhf.gov.uk Issue 4 May 2012

PLUS!HALF-TERM

FUN EVENTS!FROM PAGE 45>>

PAGES 8&9>>

YOUNG STAR CONOR MAYNARD ROCKS

HAMMERSMITH

Stur crazy!

CONTINUED ON PAGES 10&11>>

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SWIM STARS!SW6 NURSERY GETS ARTY

THE WINNERS FROM FULHAM POOLS GALA

Runner visits Addison Primary as he sets his sights on this summer’s Olympic Games

D O IT for us, Andrew! Do it for Addison! That was the cry from 400 new athletics fans

at a Shepherds Bush primary school as they met one of Britain’s fastest Olympic prospects last week.

When Andrew Osagie (pictured centre) thunders down the track during the summer in the 800m heats, he’ll have dozens of extra high-pitched voices cheering him on. The runner, who won a medal at the World Indoor Championships just days before his

MESSYPLAY! PAGES64-67

www.lbhf.gov.uk Issue 3 March 2012

INSIDEOUR 8-PAGE GUIDE TO EGG-CELLENTEASTER FUN! FROM PAGE 41>

PAGE 25

Going for gold!

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TO MCFLY!SEE PAGE 55

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www.lbhf.gov.uk Issue 2 February 2012

HALF TERM!WE VISIT THE SULGRAVE!

OUR TOP GUIDE TO THE BEST ACTIVITIES IN H&F OVER THE BREAK!

PAGES29-31

One Direction rock the Apollo

A FAN of boy band One Direction? If so, check out our top pictures from their gig at Hammersmith Apollo. SEE PAGE 7>>

Applications to local secondaries jump 50 per cent in one year

A RADICAL transformation of secondary schools

in H&F has resulted in an explosion in popularity.

With standards soaring and choice widening, the number of applications to local state secondary schools for September 2012 is up 50 per cent since 2009. And two new secondary schools opened

JOIN THE CLUB

WIN! FREE MUPPETS SOUNDTRACK!

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Secondary schools proving more popular with parents

PAGES39-42

The anxiety then began. The very first

h&f buzz was on its way. There was one more thing we

needed – a guest editor for the whole

newspaper.The draw had to take place

between all of the Young Reporters. And I won!

YOUNG EDITORI was then given the chance to edit the newspaper. It was a long task, but fun. Everything was now up to date and ready to be published.

September 2011 had arrived and

the first EVER edition of h&f buzz was

published.When I got the newspaper I was so

proud.All those hours of writing and

research, all the meetings, the amount

of effort and hard work, everything

had really paid off, and it all felt AMAZING.

It looked good, and I was already

optimistic for the next edition. My friends, family and even neighbours

were very proud of me.

DEADLINES, DEADLINES...Time went by and the whole cycle started all over again. Soon, though, I decided that I would need to leave the Young Reporters group, because I was already extremely busy with other extra-curricular

activities, and I couldn’t handle it all at the same time.

However I really didn’t want to leave straight away, so I decided… I’d make one last article to get my story out there and appreciate the final chance I’d have to make my last article with the Young Reporters.This has been it. After saying all my goodbyes, this has been my last article.

THANK YOU YOUNG REPORTERS, AND GOODBYE!

As a final word, I’d like to urge anyone who is interested in getting involved in journalism to take this chance and apply to be a Young Reporter. You really won’t regret it! Email youth_involvement@lbhf. gov.uk or call 020 8753 6232.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 89

HOLD THE FRONT PAGE: Four editions of h&f buzz – September, May, March and January – in 2012


What’s going on in your borough?


PAPER TRAILWhere does

h&f buzz come from?SEE PAGES

92-93

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BUZZ 1.2013

EVER wondered where your newspaper comes from? Well, here’s the answer! This is the mammoth printing press in Norwich that churns out your very own copy of h&f buzz.

The printing press uses four aluminium plates to separately apply colours cyan (blue), magenta (pink), yellow and black as the paper passes through the tight metal reels. It is then gradually cut into sheets with four pages (two each side) and stapled together.

Once all 22,000 copies are printed, cut and stapled, the newspapers are bundled into stacks of 50 and packed on pallets. Forklifts place these pallets on the back of a lorry and it is driven overnight from the press in Thorpe St Andrew to Barnet in north London where they are placed in vans and delivered to your school or youth club. Enjoy!

EXTRA EXTRA! THE PRINTING PRESS FACTSThe September 2012 edition of h&f buzz used: l 4 tonnes of 43-gram recycled newsprint – which would cover more than 23 acres!l 50 kilos of ink!l 176 aluminium printing plates!l And 10 copies of the newspaper were printed every second!

WHERE THE

MAGIC HAPPENS

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BUZZ 1.2013

WHERE THE

MAGIC HAPPENS

llll

FINE PRINT: Above, here is the printing press that creates your h&f buzz newspaper in Norwich. The two control room operators make sure the four separate aluminium plates for colours cyan, magenta, yellow and black are running properly – or ‘in registration’

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BUZZ 1.2013

u Youngsters who are looked after by the council can now get help with life’s little extras via a new fund, writes Louise Raisey

from in order to fulfil their ambitions and make the most of their talents.

A celebration event to launch H&F Council’s pledge to all children in care also saw the official launch of the new H&F Opportunity Fund and highlighted some of the achievements of children in care at Hammersmith Town Hall.

“We want to bridge the gap between a doting parent and a corporate parent,” said H&F cabinet member Helen Binmore.

“We are all corporate parents for these young people and so I am asking everyone to help me extend the ‘bank of mum and dad’ to give our looked-

after children some of the same advantages our own children might have.

“Backing the aspirations of our young people and taking real parental responsibility means putting our hands in our own pockets.

“Importantly, the scheme is designed to give young people a ‘hand up’ rather than a ‘hand out’ as part of the council’s wider Borough of Opportunity campaign.

“That means young people will be asked to make a contribution themselves.

“For young children that could be a commitment to tidying their room regularly or helping with housework, and for older children that

ON TARGET!

Children in care rarely get the added extras most families

provide to help their children do well in life.

That is set to change as children who are ‘looked after’ by the council can now apply to a special Opportunity Fund for help with extra tuition, sports equipment, driving lessons and so on – anything that other children might benefit

OUR PLEDGE: Chanel Medrano and H&F cabinet member Helen Binmore at the launch of the Opportunity Fund PICTURES BY LEIGH QUINNELL

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BUZZ 1.2013

could be matching the funding with some money of their own.”

Set up by H&F Council and administered by donation management charity the London Community Foundation, the fund’s coffers are being filled by councillors and council officers via the Give as You Earn scheme and through local business and charity contributions.

The first major business donation of £5,000 has come from the Earls Court & Olympia Venues’ charity fund.

“This year EC&O is celebrating 10 years of its Charitable Trust and I can’t think of a more fitting way

to honour such a landmark,” said Anna Golden, commercial director at EC&O Venues.

“This very worthy cause offers us a real chance to support young people in the area. We look forward to working with H&F Council and The Opportunity Fund over the coming months and providing continued support for their incredible work.”

The celebration event included a prize draw for the young people, with prizes including an Microsoft Xbox donated by Cargo Homeshop, a gaming accessory from Game, tickets to watch Fulham rapper Example donated

by EC&O Venues, a month’s membership donated by Virgin Active gym, a free haircut at salon Toni & Guy, a laserjet printer from WH Smith, a gift set from Boots, a voucher from Café Brera, and Tesco vouchers.

The day also showcased some of the exceptional talent the fund aims to nurture, including an art exhibition by young people in care.

Rachel Bicknell who attends the Brit School also read a moving poem that she wrote about going into care.l For more details about the Opportunity Fund, call Etiene Steyn on 020 8753 5024.

New pledge to offer children in care chance of a head start

A BRIGHT NEW DAY: EC&O Venues presents a £5,000 cheque for the Opportunity Fund to the Children in Care Council. Left, H&F mayor Belinda Donovan finds two volunteers to sign the new H&F pledge

PULL YOUR WEIGHT

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BUZZ 1.2013

HEAVY LIFTING: Dominic Toussaint, 14; Vlad Cevchenko, 15; and Martin Shaw, 13, with the kneeling Elvis HallPICTURES BY JUSTIN THOMAS

PULL YOUR WEIGHT

PULL YOUR WEIGHT

97

BUZZ 1.2013PULL YOUR WEIGHT

u You want to stay fit and healthy and grown into a big strong boy? Just follow The King. Tim Harrison joins Elvis in the gym, and learns how to flex his muscles

A KEEP-FIT tournament is proving a hit with secondary school students, and could eventually spread across the capital. The London Schools Fitness Challenge was devised by Hammersmith & Fulham youth worker

Elvis Hall, and piloted by The Bridge Academy in Finlay Street, Fulham.

“The idea is to develop healthy competition and get young people involved in fitness and sports,” said Elvis, who has qualifications as a personal trainer, fitness coach and youth worker.

Initially the challenge is aimed at all the borough’s secondary schools, for boys and girls, but eventually Elvis hopes to expand the competition to cover schools in H&F’s partner boroughs of Kensington & Chelsea and Westminster.

The challenge began in September when Elvis encouraged pupils at The Bridge Academy to demonstrate their skills in

STORY CONTINUES ON pagE 98>>

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BUZZ 1.2013

CONTINUED FROM pagE 9710 basic physical exercises, pitting their strengths against others in their year.

Working closely with PE staff in borough secondary schools, he then rolled the challenge out to include students at Fulham Boys’ College, the Oratory and Phoenix High.

In June the finals will be staged, with the two top pupils from each year competing against each other. Trophies will then be given to the best performing schools, with certificates for individuals.

“It’s basic exercise that all kids can do, so

they are developing their own fitness as well as representing their school and year, and improving their health for the future,” said Elvis.

“The young people represent their school and their year, and become advocates and champions of a healthy lifestyle and leadership within their school.

“So far the young people who have participated have demonstrated true commitment and have really performed to their best and encouraged each other while taking part.”

It has proved slightly harder to get girls

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involved in the fitness challenge, but some are now showing an interest.

“The good thing about the challenge is that everyone can improve, and the idea is to try to keep improving. Each youngster gets a booklet to monitor their improvements.”

Elvis has been encouraged by the mix of team spirit and individual competitiveness which the challenge has unearthed, with the rolling results posted on school noticeboards as a further encouragement, and an incentive to join

in the annual London Youth Games.“The boys really enjoy it, and push

themselves against their own previous bests,” he said. “PE teachers are

supporting me in the challenge and are really helping out.

“Now I hope that following the successful pilot all the borough’s secondary schools get involved.”

As well as hoping to involve H&F’s two partner boroughs, Elvis

aims to get London Mayor Boris Johnson working on his fitness…

perhaps starting with a few press-ups.

WEIGHT AND SEE:

Elvis Hall trains Dominic

Toussaint, Vlad Cevchenko and

Martin Shaw, and (inset) the pupils

try pull-ups

100

BUZZ 1.2013

SHEPHERD & THE SHEEP!

BUZZ 1.2013

OTHERS may follow like sheep… but when it comes to tag

rugby, Good Shepherd is way out in front.

The youngsters from the school in Wendell Park, Shepherds Bush, have retained the trophy they first won a year ago in Hammersmith & Fulham’s primary school

101

u A Wendell Park primary school is gaining a fearsome reputation for its rugby playing, as Tim Harrison reports

rugby tournament after an impressive run of matches on a rare sunny autumnal day at Fulham’s Hurlingham Park.

The dozen competing teams, split into two mini leagues, played each other once to set up two semi-finals, with the winners of one league playing the runners-up from the other.

Reigning champions Good Shepherd A won four of their matches and drew the fifth (against St John’s), while in the second league Queen’s Manor primary of south Fulham won all five of their league matches to finish with maximum points in the frantic non-contact sport.

The semi-finals were both

nail-biters. Sir John Lillie lost their game to Good Shepherd A by 4-3, while St Stephen’s slipped past Queen’s Manor by four tries to two to set up the Good Shepherd v St Stephen’s final.

St Stephen’s scored first, but Good Shepherd A immediately counter-attacked, scoring four tries in quick succession.

“It was an exciting game of rugby, a worthy end to the tournament, and both teams are to be congratulated on their fine performances,” said organiser Deryck Fill.

Sir John Lillie scored the greatest number of tries in any single game,


PARK BATTLE: Clockwise from far left, Rikardo Kolaj sprints away; Good Shepherd celebrate with trophy; Aidan Atkinson offloads; Rhys McCarthy-Jones makes a move for St Stephens; Isaac Seyoumi breaks a tackle PICTURES BY JUSTIN THOMAS

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BUZZ 1.2013

GOTCHA: Left, a nimble Good Shepherd player stops Isaac Seyoumi in his tracks. Above, Good Shepherd A captain Ronan Gilbert, 10, proudly lifts the trophy

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 101touching down nine times in a high-scoring match against Brackenbury which finished 9-2.

Calculating tries scored against tries conceded, the best try difference was 14, achieved by Pope John. Four of the 30 league matches were drawn.

St Stephen’s were rewarded with silver medals, Good Shepherd A retained the trophy and were presented with gold medals, and there were bronze

medals for the players from Sir John Lillie and Queen’s Manor.

Good Shepherd A will go on to represent Hammersmith & Fulham in the 2013 Youth Games.

Both teams in the final were also presented with an H&F Rugby Club branded rugby ball, in what is becoming a welcome tradition, cementing links with the club.

Later Deryck Fill paid tribute to the work of Rory Greenslade-Jones and

his team from the RFU – Martin, James and Calum – for refereeing the games professionally and efficiently, and for supporting the primary schools’ tag rugby tournaments for so long.

“It was a tournament played in the best of spirits, and it was one that everyone I spoke to seemed to enjoy,” said Deryck.

The next major tag rugby event in Hammersmith & Fulham is the spring tournament on Wednesday April 17 at Hurlingham Park.

SHEPHERD & THE SHEEP!

Frozen out!Frozen out!

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BUZZ 1.2013

FROZEN pitches, frozen players, frozen spectators. As the borough’s premier youth

football tournament enters its winter phase, cancellations are coming thick and fast.

The recent icy spell followed two months of on-off rain, disrupting the 22-year-old Mayor’s Cup.

Organiser Deryck Fill warned that the backlog of unplayed games could affect Hammersmith & Fulham’s Youth Games entry.

Schools playing catch-up have been warned some ties may be settled by the toss of a coin! “There is little spare capacity, particularly in the north of the borough, so schools must organise postponed

games as soon as possible, or matches may have to be conceded,

and no one wants that,” he said.

All 34 schools in the borough are competing, with Ravenscourt Park and Hurlingham Park pitches used to the full.

The grand finals of both girls’ and boys’ sections

will be played on March 22 at Hurlingham Park.

Defending their title, and going for a third successive trophy

in the boys’ section, Larmenier & Sacred Heart demolished Holy Cross 6-0, while Sir John Lillie defeated Avonmore 8-0.

Fulham beat Avonmore 3-0, while Langford’s 4-0 win over St John’s was

another stand-out result. All Saints pipped St Augustine’s 2-1, while Sir John Lillie beat St Thomas by a single goal. Wormholt Park look strong in the north with wins over St Mary’s, Canberra and Greenside.

In the girls’ tournament, Greenside and Brackenbury (the 2012 champions) set the pace, while Pope John, Good Shepherd and Kenmont also recorded victories.

Recent stand-out results include Holy Cross’s 8-0 walloping of New King’s.

Meanwhile, Deryck Fill is glued to the weather forecast. “Five teams still have a 100

per cent success rate in matches, but all that will change, I have no doubt,” he said.

u The big chill has taken its toll on fixtures in the borough’s No1

football contest, as Tim Harrison reports

Frozen out!

Matches may have to be conceded, and no one wants that‘‘

MAYOR’S CUP FINALMarch 22Hurlingham ParkFulham

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BUZZ 1.2013

Bring a pillow and bed down for a night at the Bridge

Help Stamford the lion find his lost treasure...

l SLEEPOVERS are back at Stamford Bridge. After the success of earlier events, the first museum sleepover of 2013 takes place on Saturday, February 23.

It’s a chance for junior supporters to take part in an exciting night of activities before going to sleep in the club museum.

As well as the sleepover, young supporters will be given a tour of the stadium, with a visit to the press room and home dressing room, before walking down the tunnel and sitting in the home dug-out, as well as playing a game of five-a-side football on an inflatable pitch and meeting club mascot Stamford the Lion.

This event is suitable for children aged five-10.

All children must be accompanied by same-sex adults. All youngsters need to bring is a sleeping bag, pillow, mat, toothbrush and torch.

For full details and to book, visit chelseafc.com/tours or call 0871 984 1955.

l STAMFORD the lion, Chelsea’s forgetful mascot, has lost his treasure, and is hoping young Blues fans will join him at Stamford Bridge at half term to find it.

Parents and youngsters will have to help Stamford decipher riddles to find the treasure in different parts of the stadium… with gifts awaiting each child at the end. The treasure hunt takes place at 12.30pm on Friday February 22.

The day includes a behind-the-scenes tour of Stamford Bridge, access to the dressing rooms, tunnel and pitchside area, and entry to the Chelsea FC museum.

The cost is £16 apiece for adults and children, and bookings can be made at: www.chelseafc.com/tours

MAKE MY DAY!

NIGHT, NIGHT: Freddie Farage soaks up the atmosphere at Stamford Bridge

l Stamford Bridge is an unusual stadium because it was built nearly 30 years before the football club was created. It was originally used for athletics!

l When junior members join, one of the first things they receive is a Chelsea bootbag, the must-have accessory for all budding Oscars and Matas.

l Over the years, Stamford Bridge has been used for loads of sports including cricket, rugby union, baseball, American football, midget car racing and greyhounds.

A stADiuM with An incrEDiblE storE of oDD MEMoriEs...

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u There’s plenty more to do than simply watch football at Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge stadium. Tim Harrison reports on one young fan’s dream day in SW6

SHORT of lining up alongside Juan Mata and David Luiz to play

Man United, 10-year-old Freddie Farage did everything possible on a matchday.

The mad-keen Chelsea fan timed his big day out perfectly. It was Halloween, the Blues were playing Utd

in the Carling One Cup, and Freddie cheered until he was hoarse as

Chelsea triumphed 5-4 in a ding-dong thriller.

“It was brilliant,” said the youngster, who met his pals outside Chelsea’s interactive museum after having his picture taken with his football heroes at the Stamford Bridge photowall.

“I had such an amazing time,” he told h&f buzz. “I didn’t realise there

was so much to do! I visited the museum, played on FIFA 13, got my face painted and played Match Attax before the game even started!”

Freddie, a junior club member, moved a step closer to his dream of playing in royal blue by honing his shooting skills at the adidas shooting gallery.

He tested his reaction times against the batak wall before challenging his friends on the Xbox in the family stand.

The wannabe striker then took his place pitchside to watch the players warm up for the glam fixture, and try to bag an autograph or two.

“I enjoyed the entertainment in the family stand,” said Freddie. “The highlight was definitely meeting Stamford the Lion! I can’t wait to come back. Come on you Blues!”

He checked his height against lifesize pictures of the squad. At 130cm, he’s catching Juan Mata (170cm)… but still has a way to go before overtaking goalie Petr Cech (196cm)!

He still had time to enjoy the skills of a balloon modeller before meeting mascot Stamford.

Wendy, Freddie’s mum, told h&f buzz: “We always have a great time when we visit Chelsea. We try to arrive a couple of hours before kick-off to let the kids enjoy all on offer.

“The club has done a great job in creating a family atmosphere.”

The match Freddie picked proved one of the most exciting of the season.

Ryan Giggs put United ahead after 22 minutes, David Luiz equalised, then Hernandez gave United the lead. Gary Cahill brought Chelsea level again with a header before Nani again put United ahead. It looked all over, until Eden Hazard rolled in a penalty in stoppage time to force a further half hour. Dan Sturridge and Ramires made it 5-3, and Giggs pulled back another from the spot for a 5-4 finish.

I can’t wait to come back.

Come on you Blues!

‘‘

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BUZZ 1.2013

u Inspired by 2012, the local swimming club is thriving, but there’s still room for keen newcomers, as Tim Harrison reports

ONE of the best supported swim clubs in the capital

welcomes youngsters inspired by the 2012 Olympics.

Chelsea and Westmin-ster Swimming Club, founded in 1947, has 400 members aged three to 19. Training in Hammersmith, Westminster and Chelsea, the club has a partnership with Latymer Upper school, near Hammersmith town hall, which provides time slots from 6am to 7.30pm… especially helpful for senior swimmers, who train up to18 hours a week.

The link is vital as pool space is at a premium following the closure of Kensington Leisure

Centre last month for reconstruction over the next two years.

This winter the club came fourth in London in the Arena National Swimming League.

Hammersmith pupils Georgie Boyle and Bella Hindley competed in the Olympic trials and have represented London and Great Britain. Bella, the 2012 H&F Young Athlete of the Year, won silver in the Junior European Championships.

Another keen member is Daniel Leznin, a borough resident who was 2011 Junior Sports Person of the Year.

Skilled club coaches have also meant Latymer

Upper has had parallel success, and can claim to be London’s top swimming school.

A Year 8 and 9 relay team (Spencer Matthews, Rowan Thomas, Holly Addison and Georgie Boyle) recently came second in the National Schools 4x50m freestyle final.

The club runs afternoon sessions for local children on Tuesdays and Thursdays (Years 3-6 from 3.40-4.30pm, and 4.30-5.30pm for older children who can swim at least 50m). It costs £70 a term for one session a week. Visit: www.cwswimming.com or email: [email protected]

There are always gaps after half term, as some youngsters opt for other activities.

The club continues to negotiate for pool time with other schools, and has arranged Friday morning sessions at St Paul’s girls’, 7-8am.

The lengths some people will go to! Take a plunge!

‘‘Pool space is at a premium after

the closure of Kensington

Leisure Centre

BUZZ 1.2013

THE Hoops are battling for survival, Fulham are becalmed and Chelsea are in Europe... but the eyes of west London are on the replay of the drawn

Brentford v Chelsea FA Cup clash on February 17.With Stamford Bridge no longer a citadel, 6,000 Bees fans

will be Brentford’s 12th man at the Shed end as the sides meet again to see who will face Boro in the fifth round.

There was little surprise about Fulham’s 4-1 exit at Old Trafford, but QPR’s 4-2 home defeat by League One MK Dons was a genuine shock – especially with the Dons

4-0 up after an hour.Now the Hoops’ concentration is

on league points, with the desperate scrabble for safety meaning nothing short of victory in the home ties against

Norwich City (Feb 2) and Manchester United (Feb 23) will be good enough. Sandwiched

between them is a tricky match away at Swansea (Feb 9).Chelsea’s congested February fixture list has some intriguing

matches, with Petr Cech returning to the club he left as a teenager – Sparta Prague – in the Europa League.

“It is fantastic for me to be able, after 12 years, to finally play a Czech team in a European competition,” said Cech.

“Although the ideal scenario was to play them in the Champions League, this is one of the positives from not being able to play in the Champions League now.

“We will try to win the Europa League now, and it is great for me to have this experience of going home and playing for Chelsea in Czech Republic.”

Cech was 19 and playing for Sparta when he set a record for the Czech league: 900 minutes without conceding a goal. “For Sparta, every European game is a game of their lives, which makes it even harder to play against,” he said.

Chelsea are away to Newcastle (Feb 2), when Demba Ba returns to the club he knows well. After the home game against Wigan (Feb 9), the Blues play the two legs of the Sparta Prague double-header, with that tricky Brentford rematch in between. The Blues’ last match of the month is against reigning league champions Manchester City.

Fulham have tough home games against Manchester United and Stoke City, but also a potentially winnable match against Norwich (Feb 9), with the East Anglians

experiencing a dip in form in recent weeks. 107

uWho would have thought it? Chelsea v Brentford is the pick of the games in a month that sees Rangers under the

cosh and Fulham stuttering to a halt. So bring on the Bees and salute the magic of the cup, writes Tim Harrison

FEEL THE FA CUP

BUZZ!

CLASH: Harry Forrester of the Bees and Fernando Torres meet on Feb 17

PICTURES BY ACTION IMAGES

108

BUZZ 1.2013 Squash world series sees familiar faces crowned champion!

109

BUZZ 1.2013Squash world series sees familiar faces crowned champion!

u Behind the dramatic glass sides of the Queen’s Club show court, the world’s squash aces did battle.Tim Harrison looked through the clear walls to bring you this report

N ICOL David has defended her ATCO PSA World Series

squash title in the glass showcase court at West Ken’s Queen’s Club.

The Malaysian superstar defeated British champion Laura Massaro 3-0 (11/3, 11/2, 11/9) in 37 blistering minutes, despite raucous local support for Massaro, including cheering from the winners of a competition in the sister publication to Buzz.

It means that David remains unbeaten at Queen’s, which hosted the prestigious finals for the second year running.

It was also the second tournament in a row in which she and Massaro

met in the final after the World No1 edged out the English player at the recent Cayman World Open last month.

“I knew I had to start strongly because she’s in front of her home crowd, otherwise she’d feed off the crowd,” said David.

Massaro was disappointed, but said she would leave Queen’s Club in a positive frame of mind. “I’d say this week has been 80 per cent positive, and the key is to take the good from that and learn from the 20 per cent that wasn’t so good,” she said.

The Egyptian Amr Shabana lifted the men’s trophy for the second year, beating England’s Nick Matthew 3-1 (4/11, 11/2, 11/4, 11/7) in 57 minutes. “It’s amazing to win here again,” said Shabana. “I’ve been playing this tournament 10 years and love it.”

He was full of praise for Matthew after their high-octane final inside the 360-degree glass court. “Nick is one of the best athletes. When you play him there are few areas to hit to where he won’t punish you.”

“I didn’t play badly, he was just too good, but he would have been too good for most people today,” said Matthew. “I tried to get my game in gear but he just wouldn’t let me.”

The event was watched by an audience which included Your H&F Magazine competition winners: Tom Morgan of Bromyard Avenue, W3; Renae Graham of Matheson Road, W14; Samuel Giles of Biscay Road, W6; D McDevitt of Ceylon Road, W14; James Appleby of Shottendane Road, SW6; Megan Lindsay of Nascot Street, W12; Andrew Mitchell of Aycliffe Road, W12; Patrick Lynchehaun of Roxwell Road, W12; John Dean of Whittingstall Road, SW6; Charlie McCall of Clockhouse Place, SW15; Alistair Robertson of Addison Gardens, W14; and S O’Brien of Stonor Road, W14.

VICTORS: Nicol David (above

left) and Amr Shabana both retained the

silverware they first won at Queen’s

last year

BUZZ 1.2013

110

WIN! WIN! WIN!

a free Disney Wreck it Ralph! soundtrack

l IT’S the Disney story of an arcade-game bad guy who embarks on a quest to prove he’s really a good guy, Wreck-It Ralph journeys through wildly diverse arcade game worlds, including the 1980s-era, 8-bit video-game world, the original first-person shooting game and the candy-coated cart-racing game. The film opens on February 15. For your chance to win one of five free soundtracks on CD, email your name, postal address and answer to this question: What is the name of the strong guy pictured above? to: [email protected] by February 15. Editor’s decision is final. CDs will be sent via post. Usual rules apply.

Time to get shirty!l FOOTIE fans, here is your chance to win a free 2011-12 season top from either QPR, Chelsea or Fulham FC. All three of

the local Premier League clubs have donated a size small shirt, perfect

for the young supporter in your life. Send your full name, full postal address, what team’s shirt you want and a daytime phone number and answer to this question: What three Premier League teams play in the borough? to: [email protected] by February 15. Editor’s decision is

final. Usual rules apply. Look sharp!

Featuring original music from Skrillex, AKB48, Owl City and Buckner & Garcia!

WIN!

Buy a Fulham FC Junior Membership before 31st January 2013 and you will be entered into a draw to win an Adult and Junior ticket for the upcoming SW6 derby at Craven Cottage between Fulham FC and Chelsea FC.

Call 0843 208 1234 (option 2) and quote ‘Buzz Magazine’ to be in with a chance of winning.

Tickets are in the family section for home supporters only, non refundable/exchangeable.

Terms and conditions apply.

WIN TICKETS

To book or for more information visitchelseafc.com/tours

Includes:Behind the scenes tour,including dressing roomsand the tunnel

Access to theChelsea FC Museum

‘Treasure’ for every childUnique photo opportunities

Friday 22nd February12:30pm

Just £16 adultsand £16 kids

h&f buzz (january 2013)

Documents

staples pages

court pages

heart pages

town hall pages

league tables pages

eating disorders pages

weighty challenge pages

strains of home life