Discovering the Magic of Community, Autumn and Learning this October

Hello everyone! As I sit here looking out at the trees outside in our playground with their bright golden and orange leaves and watch October arrive, I find myself reflecting on the wonderful experiences and adventures September offered us here at Westminster Children's University. The crisp autumn air, combined with the vibrant colours of the season, has created the perfect backdrop for learning, exploring, and growing together as a community.

Last month, I had the incredible opportunity to take part in the WCC Paddington canal side Festival, not just as an attendee but also as a curator and community councillor. This role allowed me to feel more deeply connected to our community. The festival was a highlight for me, brimming with joy and excitement as we worked tirelessly to create memorable experiences for everyone involved.

One of my favourite moments was watching little faces light up during our face painting sessions. It was heart-warming to see the children's excitement as their faces transformed into colourful butterflies, superheroes, and more, each design sparking joy and imagination.

Collaborating with beloved authors Freddie Sandilands and Renata Kaminska was another magical experience. Their storytelling sessions captivated young minds, transporting them to worlds of adventure and wonder. It's these moments of creativity and imagination that truly make our community special.

More than anything, the festival exemplified what it means to come together as a community. Families, children, and educators and professionals from all walks of life joined forces to celebrate and learn from each other. This spirit of teamwork and inclusion is something we hold dear at Westminster Children's University, and it was inspiring to see it in action.

As we turn the page to October, I'm filled with anticipation for the exciting events we have planned. Our goal is to continue inspiring our young learners and their families, nurturing creativity, curiosity, and joy along the way. I'm particularly thrilled about diving into the world of creativity with our Arts and Crafts sessions. There's something magical about using the colours and textures of autumn to spark imagination. I can't wait to see what our young artists come up with as they let their creativity shine.

This October’s educational adventures there promise to be an enlightening experience, where children will explore the wonders of the season. They'll learn about the environment, the changing seasons, and how vital it is to care for nature. It's a chance to connect with the world around us and appreciate its beauty.

They will also get the chance to see the chickens and hives at the mini farm .Witnessing our young learners interact with friendly animals and engage in hands-on farming activities will be truly delightful. They'll discover the world of sustainable farming practices, understanding where food comes from and the importance of caring for our planet. These activities are carefully curated to ensure each child and their family is fully engaged and joyful. Our aim is to spark curiosity, foster creativity, and nurture a lasting love for learning.

I'm absolutely thrilled to tell you all about some incredible free events happening in London this October. Whether you dream of grand adventures, have a passion for art, or simply love trying new things, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s jump right in!

1. River Thames Festival

Picture yourself strolling along the magical River Thames, where the sky lights up with music, colours, and art. This festival is a sparkling celebration with lots of fun activities, such as live music and dance performances, and eye-catching art installations. You'll soak in the lively energy and get to experience diverse cultures all in one enchanting place.

Why you might love it: The festival is full of creativity and interaction. It's a fantastic chance to learn about new cultures, enjoy live performances, and maybe even discover a new favourite artist.

2. Science Open House Days

Calling all curious minds! London's top science museums and centres, like the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum, are opening their doors for free this month. There will be special workshops and exhibitions where you can explore the universe, the wonders of nature, or the coolest technology. Westminster University’s Scientists are also available to visit your schools so let us know if you would like a school’s science experience.

Why you might love it: Engaging with hands-on exhibits, experiments and meeting real scientists doing science demonstrations can be incredibly inspiring, sparking your imagination and a potential passion for science!

3. Art in the Park

This outdoor art event turns London’s parks into enormous open-air galleries. Artists from around the world showcase various works, from sculptures to interactive pieces, creating a world where creativity has no limits.

Why you might love it: Walking through art pieces and chatting with artists can expand your mind to new ideas and viewpoints. Plus, it's a wonderful way to relax and enjoy nature with art. You could make your own temporary autumnal art while you’re there out of the fallen leaves and twigs, if you photograph it and share it we can share it online for you via your WCU Coordinator.

4. Storytelling Sessions at Local Libraries and the Floating Classroom Story Telling Project

Dive into magical tales with storytelling sessions in libraries across London. Skilled storytellers bring stories to life, sharing everything from classic fairy tales to adventurous and heart-warming tales.

Why you might love it: Listening to stories is not only fun but also a fantastic way to enhance your language skills and imagination. It's also a chance to meet friends who love the same stories!

5. Urban Wildlife Adventures

Join guided walks through some of London's green spaces with the royal parks to uncover the urban wildlife sharing our city. You might spot birds, insects, and even small mammals, with activities like nature journaling or photography included. You can see what is planned and book with your parents by visiting what’s on? On the Royal Parks Website

Why you might love it: Being in nature is calming and educational. These adventures help you connect with the environment and might even inspire an interest in biology or conservation.

6. Historic London Treasure Hunt

This city-wide treasure hunt takes you on a historical adventure through London. Solve puzzles and follow clues that lead to historic landmarks and hidden gems.

Why you might love it: It’s an exciting way to learn about London's rich history while challenging your problem-solving skills. It’s also a wonderful activity to do with friends or family.

London has so many sights to see, and this free scavenger hunt will lead you to all the best places, local haunts, and have you keeping an eye out for what makes London unique!

Scavenger Hunt Checklist for London Example

Item                                                                                         Points

Big Ben Clock Tower                                                                     4

Buckingham Palace Changing of the Guard                              3

Tower Bridge                                                                                  5

London Eye Ferris Wheel                                                              4

Trafalgar Square Nelson’s Column                                             2

Piccadilly Circus Neon Signs                                                         3

St. Paul’s Cathedral Dome                                                            5

Covent Garden Street Performers                                             2

The Shard Skyscraper                                                                   3

Platform 9 3/4 at King’s Cross Station                                       4

Millennium Bridge                                                                         5

Camden Market Street Art                                                          4

Royal Albert Hall                                                                             3

Abbey Road Zebra Crossing                                                          2

The Gherkin Skyscraper                                                               4

The British Museum Rosetta Stone                                           3

Piccadilly Circus Statue of Eros                                                   2

Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre                                                    3

Leaden hall Market                                                                      5

Brick Lane Street Art                                                                    4

Harrods Egyptian Escalator                                                         3

Tate Modern Turbine Hall                                                           2

Notting Hill Portobello Road Market                                       4

The Cutty Sark Ship                                                                     3

Primrose Hill Panoramic Viewpoint                                         2

The Clink Prison Museum                                                          3

Borough Market Food Stalls                                                      4

The British Library King’s Library Tower                                 2

Royal Observatory Greenwich                                                 3

The Royal Exchange                                                                   4

How to Play

This is a list of things to see in the city. Some of them are popular tourist attractions while others are more local secrets. For each item, you (or your team) need to take a picture/or do a drawing if your teacher is there to confirm you saw it, that shows both you and the listed item. For each photo you take, you’ll get the corresponding amount of points listed to the side of that item.

At the end of the allotted time for the scavenger hunt, you can see what level of rank you’ve earned and whichever team has the most point’s wins! You’ll be allowed to go to City Hall and ask for a key to the city. (We haven’t actually made any arrangements, but it doesn’t hurt to ask, right?)

Additional considerations for how you play:

You will need at least three hours for the scavenger hunt in London while smaller hunts like school could last 30 minutes, just be sure to have a limit on the time you’re focused on this activity, but how long it takes is up to you.

If you’re traveling as part of a group and don’t want to split up, we’d recommend treating this as a game of I-Spy and awarding points to whoever in the group spots the item first or takes the first photo.

It’s up to you how tough you want to make it with respect to awarding points just for seeing something, or if you have to go inside, or taking it further and requiring even more depending on the location.

Score and Rankings

How about making a treasure hunt for your favourite place or school, Give harder to find things a higher mark and easier finds a lower value, you can list as many or few as like and set a time limit for participants if you like.

7. Youth Music Jams

If music is your passion, this event is for you! Join young musicians for a relaxed jam session at local community centres or public spaces. Whether you play an instrument or love to listen, everyone is welcome. You could get involved with Music Rock Stars Workshops at QPP, join us at the RAH in November for Future Makers or perhaps you heard the cultural music stalls at the Paddington Festival or the Caribbean Festival in September?

Why you might love it: Sharing and discovering music with others is incredibly rewarding. It's an opportunity to express yourself and perhaps learn new music from fellow musicians.

These events are just a peek at what's available and can make your October in London truly unforgettable. They promise not just fun, but also learning, growing, and connecting with others. So, grab a friend or head out solo to enjoy the amazing free experiences London offers this autumn!

Happy exploring!

I'm so grateful to be a part of the Westminster Children's University family. Being surrounded by such enthusiastic learners and supportive families fills me with happiness and inspiration every day. As we continue our journey together, I am eager to learn, explore, and grow alongside all of you.

Here's to another season of growth, discovery, and togetherness!