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Welcome Guide
2016
You are about to come to London?
You are already a Londoner and are planning to move?
Whether you speak english, french, german or italian,
our international and dedicated team is here to find your home sweet home,
advise you on the best locations and assist you during the whole process…
The extra mile…always with a smile!
French TouchProperties
Dolce VitaProperties
Rufen Sie uns an, wir kümmern uns um Alles!
+44 (0) 2089940447
www.willkommenlondonproperties.com
Appelez-nous, on s’occupe de tout!
+44 (0) 2089940447
www.frenchtouchproperties.com
Chiamaci, ci occuperemo noi di tutto!
+44 (0) 2089940447
www.dolcevita-properties.com
Lettings
Short Lets
Acquisitions
Installation
Consulting
Willkommen LondonProperties
You are about to come to London?
You are already a Londoner and are planning to move?
Whether you speak english, french, german or italian,
our international and dedicated team is here to find your home sweet home,
advise you on the best locations and assist you during the whole process…
The extra mile…always with a smile!
French TouchProperties
Dolce VitaProperties
Rufen Sie uns an, wir kümmern uns um Alles!
+44 (0) 2089940447
www.willkommenlondonproperties.com
Appelez-nous, on s’occupe de tout!
+44 (0) 2089940447
www.frenchtouchproperties.com
Chiamaci, ci occuperemo noi di tutto!
+44 (0) 2089940447
www.dolcevita-properties.com
Lettings
Short Lets
Acquisitions
Installation
Consulting
Willkommen LondonProperties
Important Numbers
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Important telephone numbers
Dial 999 for EMERGENCY (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
Thames Valley Police (for Berkshire residents) Non-emergencies 08458 505505 www.thamesvalley.police.uk Surrey Police (for Surrey residents) Non-emergencies 08451 252222 www.surrey.police.uk
Operator Assistance UK 100
Operator Assistance International 155
Directory Enquiries, London 118500
Directory Enquiries, International 118505
Speaking Clock 123
ACS Egham International School 01784 430800 www.acs-schools.com/acs-egham
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This guide is kindly sponsored by Sigillus and Nanny & Butler.
www.sigillus.com+ 44 (0)207 221 9444
www.nannybutler.com+ 44 (0)207 221 4010
Welcome
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Welcome from Head of School, Jeremy Lewis
Welcome to ACS Egham! You are joining a vibrant community of educators, administrators, students and parents, working together to provide a nurturing and challenging environment for your children and a rewarding experience for your entire family. We are thrilled you’ve chosen ACS for your children and look forward to our time together.
As you get adjusted to the complexities of a new school, and for many a new country of residence, take comfort in knowing that most of us in the ACS community have been new to the area and remember how challenging it can be to get settled. We have designed this welcome booklet with you in mind. Hopefully it will make your transition to the school and the surrounding area a bit easier.
The purpose of this booklet is to serve as a resource for families who are new to the area and/or the school. Of course, it does not list all the possibilities, nor is it meant to be a comprehensive guide to London or the many communities where our student population resides, but hopefully it will point you in the right direction. The PTO Welcoming Committee is also always available and happy to assist in any way, as you get oriented to your new surroundings.
Welcome! We look forward to getting to know you soon. The ACS Egham Community
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Contents
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2 About this guide 2 Important Telephone Numbers 4 Welcome from Head of School
7 About ACS Egham 8 About this Guide 8 Important ACS Egham Contacts 10 Things to Do First 11 School Communication 12 Parent to Parent Communication 12 Health and Absences 13 Cafeteria and Food in School 13 Transportation Information 15 Busing Map 16 Parent Teacher Organisation 17 Extra-Curricular Activities 17 Native Language Enrichment 18 ACS Egham Dictionary
25 Community 26 Adult Education 26 Area Councils 27 Citizens Advice Bureau 27 Household Donations 28 Language Schools 29 Legal Issues 30 Notary Public 30 Libraries 31 Places of Worship 34 Post Offices 35 Women’s Clubs and
other Organisations
38 Daily Life 39 Setting Up a House in the UK 39 Electricity/Light Bulbs/Plugs 39 Household Appliances 40 Hard Water 40 Discounts/Vouchers 41 Passes/Savings 43 Tipping/Gratuity 43 Family Days Out 44 Weekend Trip Ideas 45 Embassies 49 Conversions 50 Weight and Measurement 51 Temperature 52 American to British Translation 58 Reading List | Websites
60 Healthcare 61 For Any Emergency 61 National Health Service 61 Helpful Websites 62 Helpful Terminology 62 Private Health Care 63 Hospitals 65 Paediatricians 66 Doctors 67 Dentists 69 Ophthalmologists 69 Opticians 70 Orthodontists 71 Physical Therapy/Osteopathy/
Acupuncture 71 Pharmacies/Chemists 73 Travel Clinics | Walk-in Clinics
74 Housing/Utilities 75 Renting/Buying –
Finding Housing 75 Finding Estate/Letting Agents 77 Interim/corporate
accommodation 78 Area Councils | Council Tax 79 Electricity 80 Phone Services 81 Mobile Phones 83 Plumbing and Heating 83 Removal Companies 83 Rubbish Collection/Recycling
Centres 85 Television 86 Utilities
88 Recreation 89 Adult Co-ed Softball 89 American Football 89 Amusement Parks 89 Ballet and Dance 90 Baseball and Basketball 91 Birthday Parties 94 Birthday Party Supplies 95 Bowling 96 Cinemas 97 Cultural & Arts Centres 97 Family Websites 97 Football
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98 Golf Clubs 99 Health Clubs, Sports Facilities,
Leisure Centres 102 Horse Riding 103 Ice Skating and Ice Hockey 104 Moms & Tots Groups 104 Music Lessons 104 Polo Clubs 105 Rugby & Cricket Clubs 106 Strategic Games 106 Swimming 107 Tae kwon do/Karate/Judo 107 Theatres
109 Restaurants 110 Pizza Delivery 111 Local Restaurants
124 Services/Business 125 Babysitters/Nanny/
Childcare Agencies 125 Banking 128 Car Valeting 128 Caterers 128 Cleaning Services 129 Dry Cleaners 130 Hair Salons 131 Make-up Artist & Hair Studios 132 Handyman/Household Services 132 Hotels 133 Insurance Companies 134 Jewellers 134 Laundry and Ironing
Service/Mending 135 Shoe repair and key cutting 135 Newsagents 136 Online Directories 136 Passport Photos 136 Pets 137 Dog Groomers 137 Kennels 138 Pet Food 138 Pet Insurance 139 Dog Walking/Training/Sitters 140 Veterinarians 141 Photographers 142 Piano Servicing/Rental 143 Travel Agents
143 Travel Insurance 143 Post Office 144 Window Washing
145 Shopping 146 Antique Markets 146 Areas for Shopping 151 Butchers 151 Camping/Skiing/Hiking stores 152 Children’s Clothing 152 Children’s Toys 152 Craft Shops 153 Do It Yourself 153 Electrical Appliance Stores 154 Fabrics and Haberdasheries 155 Farmer’s Markets | Farm Shops 155 Garden Centres/BBQ Shops 156 Gifts 156 Grocery Stores 159 Speciality Food 162 Home Furnishings 162 Newspaper Delivery 162 Paper Goods/Stationery 163 Picture Framing 164 School Supplies 164 Sheet Music and Instruments 165 Sporting Goods/Apparel
166 Transport 167 Driving 168 General Driving Tips 168 Driving Licence 169 Driving Instructors 170 Auto Insurance 171 Breakdown Insurance 171 Car Servicing/Repairs 172 Parking 172 London Congestion Charge 173 Tips for Driving on the
European Continent 173 Airports | Airport Parking 174 Public Transport 176 Car Rentals 176 Taxis/Private Car Services
178 Culture Shock 179 How to Survive Culture Shock
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About ACS Egham
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About this Guide
This book was created by the ACS PTO Welcome Team.
In this section you can see a listing of the important ACS Egham staff phone numbers and email addresses by division: Early Childhood, Lower School, Middle School and High School.
If you have any questions, please contact an ACS member of staff or a PTO Welcome Team member.
About ACS Egham
ACS Egham International School is a diverse, talented student body of approximately 600 students, ages 2-18. The school has a challenging and creative curriculum offering the full continuum of International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes.
• Primary Years Programme (PYP)• Middle Years Programme (MYP)• The Diploma (IBDP)• The Careers Related Programme (IBCP)
The school is also accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Further information can be found at www.ibo.org
Main Switchboard 01784 430800
General School Secretary [email protected] Pauline Salkeld/Carol Moggridge 01784 742003
Transport Coordinator [email protected] Alan Johnstone 01784 742067
Head of SEN [email protected] Noreen Shah 01784 742017
Athletic Director [email protected] Bob Bulloch 01784 742121
School Nurse [email protected] Johanna Axtell 01784 742014
Head of School Head of School’s PA [email protected] Sue Poole 01784 742069
Head of School [email protected] Mr. Jeremy Lewis
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About ACS Egham
Lower School (Scramblers-Grade 5) Secretary [email protected] Jennifer Moules 01784 742002
Principal [email protected] Cindy Blanes 01784 742001
Assistant Principal [email protected] Karen Rayner 01784 742109
PYP Coordinator [email protected] Sue McCluskey 01784 742008
Middle School (Grades 6-8) Secretary [email protected] Narinder Hunjun/Jessica Page 01784 742079
MYP Coordinator [email protected] Caroline Hazel 01784 742028
Principal (Grades 6-8) [email protected] Peter Hosier 01784 742080
Assistant Principal [email protected] Abel Cambra 01784 742137
High School (Grades 9-12) Secretary (Grades 9-10) [email protected] Karen Fountain 01784 742041
Secretary (Grades 11-12) [email protected] Deborah Bailey 01784 742116
IB Diploma Coordinator [email protected] Sean Sonderman 01784 742100
High School College Counsellor [email protected] Tanya Coffey/Robert Clelland 01784 742102
Principal (Grades 9-12) [email protected] Richard Naylor 01784 742113
Assistant Principal [email protected] Leanne Larkin 01784 742049
To email someone at the school, the format is usually: [email protected] (eg [email protected]).
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Things to do first
For School
1. Your username and password for ACS Egham’s Parent Intranet is automatically sent to you when your child is admitted to school. Parent Intranet is for staff, parents and students of ACS. It is a restricted network that enables ACS to share information with the ACS community such as school calendars and school news. You can only access the Parent Intranet with a Parent Intranet ID and password.
Your PARENT INTRANET ID is your student account number. Once you have enrolled and paid your fees, you will be provided with a password.
2. Make sure all relevant school Forms Online are complete. You will receive an email with a link to Forms Online, found on PARENT INTRANET. Please complete all the information required before the start of school.
3. Purchase School supplies. Each school division (Early Childhood, Lower School, Middle School, High School)
will provide a list of supplies in the Forms Online.
4. Purchase a PE (Physical Education) kit. Required beginning with Grade 1 and can be purchased at the Jag Shop during
orientation or during regular Jag Shop hours.
5. Activate a school lunch account for each child. Go to PARENT INTRANET and select catering where there is a Upay link.
Complete all the information and submit to create your account.
6. Check the School Calendar on PARENT INTRANET.
7. Check the PTO (Parent Teacher Organisation) information on PARENT INTRANET. The PTO section has information on upcoming events and volunteers opportunities.
Newcomers to the UK 1. Find your closest hospital with an A & E (Accident & Emergency) by entering your
postcode at www.nhs.uk/england/hospitals
2. Register with your local GP (General Practitioner), find your nearest NHS physicians at www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
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About ACS Egham
3. Schedule appointments for telephone, internet, gas, electricity and water services, as well as getting a TV Licence.
4. Purchase car insurance and get information about driving in the UK.
5. Get a mobile phone. A UK mobile number is required for the school to be able to reach you with any emergency school messages through the Clarion Call system.
School communication
PARENT INTRANET ACS Egham Intranet provides information on curriculum, assessment, as well as up to date communications from the school, including calendar.
Parent Portal Can be found on PARENT INTRANET contains a searchable parent directory; your child’s class schedules and grades.
You could email [email protected] if you are experiencing any difficulty.
Clarion Call System The school’s Emergency Call System used via our mobile phones to inform of cancellations or any emergency messages. The mobile numbers provided on the Family Data forms will be used. NOTE: Your mobile number must be a UK number. Please remember to provide any number changes to the school throughout the year to ensure you receive all messages in the event of an emergency.
Parent/Student/Teacher conferences The conferences are organised once a semester. There is an online sign-up system in place; a link will be posted on PARENT INTRANET a couple of weeks ahead of the conference date. This allows you to pick the teacher and a convenient time slot. Your divisional secretary will send you a note to advise when booking opens. In Lower School, you will receive a letter from the divisional secretary with sign-up instructions.
Meetings Parent Information Sessions, Grade Level Coffees, Parent/Teacher Conferences.
Questions or concerns with my child and school Encourage your son/daughter to talk with the teacher first (if age appropriate). If a concern persists, arrange to talk with the teacher. Hopefully, questions are answered and concerns are resolved in these early stages.
If the concern continues please see the relevant Principal.
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After you have seen the Principal, Jeremy Lewis, (Head of School) is available to work with all parties to resolve any concerns.
A formal complaint procedure is available at the school, if necessary.
General Questions about the school For grade-related questions, you can contact the Grade Parent for your child’s class or the PTO Liaison for the grade level.
For school related or other practical questions, contact the School Secretary for your child’s grade level.
Other parents or staff members are also valuable sources of information or can direct you to someone who can help.
Parent to parent communications
Online parent directory There is a searchable online parent directory found in the Parent Portal section on PARENT INTRANET. Families must give permission to have their details included in this database.
Class Lists After the school year begins, your room parent will gather information regarding name, address, and phone numbers of the students and parents. They will then forward this information to you once parents have given permission for this information to be distributed. You may also find this list handy when sending out birthday invitations. Please note invitations should only be handed out in school if the entire class is invited.
Health and absences
If your child is going to be absent, please email the child’s teacher or the school secretary.
Please inform the school nurse if your child has been diagnosed with any of the common “contagious” childhood illnesses, such as strep throat, conjunctivitis, chicken pox, worms or lice.
PLEASE NOTE: ACS Egham International School is a nut and shellfish free environment. If your child is an allergy sufferer please contact the nurse to discuss any concerns. W
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About ACS Egham
Cafeteria and food in school
Cafeteria Your child can either purchase a meal from school or bring a pack lunch/snack from home.
PLEASE NOTE: ACS Egham International School is a nut and shellfish free environment.
As part of its policy of making the school environment safe for students, the school will take steps to exclude as much as possible allergy causing products from school menus and snacks or foods provided. Steps taken to support this policy will include information and awareness programmes, avoidance of using particular ingredients and emergency response protocols, as the school cannot guarantee an allergic free environment. In order to ensure the safety of anaphylactic children, the cooperation of the entire school community is required. A partnership between school, parents and medical professions in which agreement can be reached on issues such as excluding nuts and nut products from packed lunches will drastically reduce the risk of potential tragedy.
School Lunches To purchase lunch each student needs to have a Upay account. Go to the PARENT INTRANET and select catering where there is a Upay link. Parents can set up automatic top ups.
Lower School students are provided with a set meal. Upper school students have additional à la carte choices.
Transportation information
Morning Drop-Off: • In the mornings, car arrival is at the front of the school near the reception area.
Please stop your car in front of reception and let your children out. Early Childhood parents have a separate parking area in front of Savill building, where they can park and then walk their children into the Early Childhood playground.
• Buses drop off at the Mansion.
• Always drop your children off first, and then park your car if you have a meeting at the school.
• The school opens at 8:00am and students should not be on campus before this time, as there is no supervision.
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After-School Departures: • School buses depart from the Mansion car park at 3:35pm.
• If your child goes by bus and you are making any changes to that arrangement, please give a note to the bus driver and also send a written note to the classroom teacher. This is very important to do, as the school will not change travel arrangements unless they receive a written note from parents/guardians. Any changes in transportation arrangements must be given in writing or email to the classroom teacher/advisor by 12:00pm that same day.
• If another parent or a designated adult is going to collect your child, please send a note or email the classroom teacher before 12:00pm that same day.
• Unless your child is involved in an after-school activity (sport, club, drama, etc) he or she may not be on the school campus after school unsupervised.
• If your child is in a school-organised event or activity, please collect him/her promptly upon the close of that event/activity.
Late Buses The Late Bus Service is a free non-bookable service for students in grade 6-12. The buses drop students off at various train stations throughout the community. These buses depart ACS Egham at 5:30pm on school days when Upper School extra-curricular activities are taking place. A list of destinations can be obtained from the Transportation Office ([email protected]).
ACS Egham busing route The yellow shading, in the map on the following page, shows the area the bus service covers.
For more information, contact the Transport Coordinator on 01784 742 067 or [email protected]
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About ACS Egham
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PTO (Parent Teacher Organisation)
All parents are members of the ACS Egham PTO. The PTO organises many activities and events, fundraisers and assists communication between parents and administration.
Throughout the year, we have Welcome Coffees & General Meetings to meet the parents, get to know the school better, to participate in fantastic events and activities, get updated information about the community. Please come to our General Meeting, to extend your social network and get involved as much as you want. You are welcome to join us.
Almost every month, we have different events and activities, so please look out for our news from the School Intranet, or the PTO noticeboard, located in Student Centre or by email. Be sure to request to join our ACS Egham PTO Facebook page as well!
Welcome on board! We understand how it feels when you move to a new country and a new environment because most of us have experienced it as well. Our Welcome Team will try to match every new family with a buddy from the same nationality and grade. We hope you will feel comfortable and settle in as soon as possible.
Below are PTO Member contacts, you can reach us anytime, because we are here for you and your involvement will make our community even more alive.
President [email protected]
Vice President [email protected]
Treasurer [email protected]
Secretary [email protected]
Communications Coordinator [email protected]
Educational Support Coordinator [email protected]
Multi-Cultural Coordinator [email protected]
Service Coordinator [email protected]
Social Coordinator [email protected]
Sports Coordinator [email protected]
Welcome Coordinator [email protected]
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About ACS Egham
Extra-curricular activities
After school clubs All lower School children must be supervised after school. The Savill playground is open after school and parents are invited to accompany their children. The adventure playground and scrambles playground is out of bounds at this time.
Past activities have included, as part of the ACS After-School Club Programme, Tennis, Cooking, Judo, Ball Up (Basketball), Crafts, Yoga, Athletic Club (range of activities), Football, Active Kids (Kindergarten only).
Activities take place once per week and are open to children in Kindergarten (Active Kids only) through Grade 5. You will receive further written information and sign up sheets for the clubs available via email at the beginning of each term. PLEASE NOTE: Classes may vary from one semester to the next.
Music Lessons/Choirs/Instrument Ensembles If you wish to arrange private music lessons for your child, the ACS music teachers can put you in touch with one of the visiting tutors that teach on campus after school hours. A list of private music teachers is also provided at the beginning of each year.
Many opportunities also exist for children to participate in one of the many choirs or instrument ensembles including:
• Lower School Choir (Grades 4 and 5)• O2 Choir (Performs once per semester at the London O2 Arena)• Harmony Choir (Grades 6-12)• Vox Mundi International Choir (Female Adults)• Upper School Band• Guitar Ensemble• Ukulele Ensemble• Flute Ensemble• String Ensemble• Rock Band
NLE (Native Language Enrichment)
The Native Language Enrichment (NLE) programme is an ACS-funded programme, available at no extra cost to students from Grade 1 upwards whose mother tongue is not English. The languages offered are at the discretion of the Head of School and Native Language Coordinator, based on the major nationality groups enrolled in the
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school. The school will provide instruction in languages as part of the fee structure with a minimum class size of two native speakers.
The primary aim of the programme is to assist students with the upkeep of their mother tongue and their culture. Other students with near native fluency in the languages on offer may join existing viable classes at the discretion of the NLE coordinator and the relevant tutor. Contact the NLE Coordinator via reception at school for more detailed information.
Scout Activities Many of the ACS students are involved in Scouts (Girl and Boy Scouts). For more information on these groups contact:
Karen McCartney Overseas Committee Chair/Girl Scouts [email protected]
Cub Scouts (Grades 1-5) Megan Roscoe [email protected]
Boy Scouts (Grades 6-12) Stacy Roman [email protected]
Duke of Edinburgh Award Programme (DofE) The Duke of Edinburgh is a tri-level award scheme (Bronze, Silver, Gold) where students discover new skills, interests and talents and develop leadership skills and abilities. The award is a four-section programme that requires students to fulfill requirements in four areas: Service (helping people in the community); Skills (covering almost any hobby, skill or interest); Physical Recreation (sport, dance and fitness); Expeditions (training for, planning and completing a journey on foot); Residential Project (Gold Award only). At ACS Egham, DofE is available to students in Grades 9-12. Contact Bill Roach, DofE Advisor for additional information ([email protected]) or for general information about DofE visit www.dofe.org
ACS Egham dictionary
Word Explanation Academic Dean Responsible for academic advising and
scheduling of High School students
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About ACS Egham
Advisory In Upper School students are organised into Advisory classes. Each morning students meet with their Advisor and Advisory Class for roll call. In addition a couple periods a week, Advisory is a subject class where topics pertaining to personal, social and health related issues are presented and discussed. Advisory periods are also used for Assembly, and during Exam week as study sessions.
Alumni Students who have previously attended ACS.
Boo’t to Boo’t PTO-sponsored Halloween event for the whole family. Kids ‘trick-or-treat’ from car boot (trunk) to boot in school parking lot.
Buddy Parent/family that volunteers to help a new family settle in at ACS.
Cafeteria or Canteen Dining hall for students and staff.
Campus All of the school’s grounds (fenced in). It is a closed campus with 24-hour security.
CAS – Creative Active Service An element of the Upper School IB programs, students volunteer their time and effort in a variety of service projects.
Centre for Inspiring Minds (CIM) CIM supports collaborations with staff to improve education at all ACS schools.
Chaperone An adult (staff, parent) supervising field trips, parties, dances, etc.
Coffee morning An informational meeting with refreshments for parents.
College workshop High School informational meetings for parents and students regarding preparation for university.
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Core subjects/classes The academic subjects in each division, usually Maths, LA, Social Studies, Language; different from ‘Specials’ or ‘Extras’.
Counselor One in each division (Lower School, Middle School, High School) to provide primarily social and emotional support for students, as well as advice for parents when needed. In High School there are also ‘college counselors’ who provide guidance for students with the university application process.
Country Rep A parent representing his/her country as part of the Multi-Cultural Committee.
Early Years Programme IB educational programme for students in Grades 1-5.
English as an Additional Language (EAL) Extra English language support for students with limited English ability.
Field Trip Students travel to locations outside of school to further their learning.
Grade Parent A volunteer parent from each Advisory class who serves as a communication point for the class for information coming from the school and the PTO. Also works along with the other Grade Parents to organise one grade-level coffees each semester.
Head of School Head responsible for all school divisions (Early Childhood, Lower School, Middle School, High School).
High School Grades 9-12.
Honour roll Semester academic recognition for students in Grades 9-12 who have earned grades of B or higher.
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Ice Cream Social Held several times throughout the summer for existing and new families. The purpose is to welcome new families to the school and allow time to mingle, with free ice cream and games for the children.
In-service day No school for students, training sessions for staff.
International Baccalaureate® (IB) A non-profit educational foundation, which created four academic programmes for students aged 3 to 19 help develop the intellectual, personal, emotional and social skills to live, learn and work in a rapidly globalising world.
International Baccalaureate® Two-year IB programme for students in Career-related Certificate (IBCC) Grades 11-12, offering the educational
principles of the IB combined with career-related learning.
International Baccalaureate® Two-year IB programme preparing (IB) Diploma students in Grades 11-12 for success in
higher education.
ISST International School Sports Tournament for varsity student athletes.
Jaguar School mascot; the ‘Jaguar’ name and logo is used especially by sports teams.
Junior Varsity (JV) High School student sports teams, sometimes might include Middle School students on the teams.
Kindergarten 5-6 year old students/Year 1 in the UK system.
Liaison PTO parent representative of a school division. Acts as a link between PTO, parents and school.
MAP Measures of Academic Progress, an online assessment taken by all students across all campuses of ACS from Grades 3-10 twice a year (in Fall and Spring).
Middle Years Programme (MYP) IB educational programme for students in Grades 6-10.
Native Language Enrichment (NLE) Lessons for students with a native language other than English.
Nepal Project Fundraising initiative and service trip for Upper School students. benefitting Shree Mahendra Lower Secondary School, located in the eastern corner of Kathmandu Valley.
Open House Informational evenings for parents held by each division (Lower School, Middle School, High School) at start of each school year.
Orientation Important informational meeting the first day of school.
PARENT INTRANET Intranet/extranet for ACS schools communication with students, parents and staff.
Parent Teacher Organisation (PTO) All parents and staff at ACS Egham are automatically members of this group.
Pot luck A social event in which each person brings a food dish to share with others.
Pre-K Pre-Kindergarten, 4-5 year old students. Reception in the UK system.
Principal – Lower School, Directs the planning, delivery and ongoing Middle School, High School improvement of curriculum, assessment and instructional practices within the school.
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PSAT An American standardized test, sometimes (Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test) taken by students in Grades 10 and 11.
PTO Board The elected leadership of the PTO organise activities and events to support students, parents and staff as well as communicate with the school staff about parent ideas and concerns.
Recess Free play time for students before/after lunch. May also mean school holiday break.
Report card Quarterly school reports detailing each student’s progress.
SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) US test taken for university/college admissions by Grade 11 and 12 students; may be taken more than once.
School colours Gold and navy blue.
Scramblers In Early Childhood, 3 year old students.
Security Hut The small hut at main school entrance with 24-hour security staff.
Snack Shop Snack bar in Woodlee Sports Centre where light refreshments and snacks are sold during sports events by parent volunteers.
Staff Appreciation Luncheon Spring lunch for all school staff to show appreciation for their hard work throughout the school year, organised by the PTO.
Staff Appreciation Cookie Bazaar All staff are treated to an array of parent-provided sweets. Usually held in late-November early December, organised by the PTO.
Student Council Students elected by their peers, form a council in Middle School and High School. The council, along with a teacher advisor, organise parties, dances and charity events.
Student Support Services Individual and small group learning support provided for students needing extra help with literacy, maths or English language.
Summer Mailing Information and forms sent to parents by Admissions and school divisions in the summer holidays.
Summer Reading In Upper School, students are often requested to complete Summer Reading tasks. A list of Summer Reading titles and tasks is usually provided by teachers before the summer holiday.
Upper School Grades 6-12.
Varsity (V) Our highest-level competing sports teams.
Welcome Coffee Informational social event for new parents; one in September and one in January sponsored by the PTO; a great opportunity to meet other parents.
Welcome Committee PTO parent volunteer group whose main purpose is to ease the transition of new families starting at the school.
Yearbook End-of-year books produced by Lower School, Middle School and High School with photos of all students and their activities during the school year. Each student has the opportunity to purchase a book and they write messages in each other’s books.
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Adult education
Check with your council for local options or you can try:
www.surreycc.gov.uk/adultlearning 03456 009 009 www3.rbwm.gov.uk/info/200115/education_and_learning
The National Careers Service www.direct.gov.uk/NationalCareersService
The Open University www.open.ac.uk
Brooklands College Weybridge Campus www.brooklands.ac.uk 01932 797 700
Bracknell and Wokingham College www.bracknell.ac.uk 0845 330 3343
Strode College www.strode-college.ac.uk 01458 844 400
Area councils
The local District Council Office is equivalent in the US to the Town Hall, and takes care of community services such as garbage and recycling, building permission, parking permits and schools. The Council is a good source of information for local children’s clubs and playgroups. You can find your local council by entering your postcode or street and town at:
www.gov.uk/find-your-local-council
Berkshire – Windsor and Maidenhead www.windsor.gov.uk 01628 683 800
www.rbwm.gov.uk Borough includes Ascot, Sunningdale, Sunninghill and Windsor.
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Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead residents qualify for an Advantage Card providing discounts on many leisure and shopping activities, restaurants, car parks, etc, as well as free entry to Windsor Castle. You can apply for the Advantage Card at a variety of locations which are listed on the website.
Surrey – Runnymede www.runnymede.gov.uk 01932 838 383
Borough includes Chertsey, Egham, Englefield Green and Virginia Water.
Surrey – Surrey Heath www.surreyheath.gov.uk 01276 707 100
Borough includes Camberley, Chobham, and Windlesham.
Surrey – Elmbridge www.elmbridge.gov.uk 01372 474 474
Borough includes Weybridge and Walton-on-Thames.
Some of the villages/towns have their own websites. Check out:
www.ascotvillage.org.uk www.ascotmatters.co.uk www.egham.org.uk www.englefieldgreen.org.uk www.sunningdale.org.uk www.sunninghill.org.uk www.virginiawater.org.uk
NOTE: It is worth a call to the council office as not all updates are on their sites.
Citizens Advice Bureau
The Citizens Advice Bureau helps people resolve their legal, money and other problems by providing free information and advice. Visit their website for answers to your questions or to find your local office: www.citizensadvice.org.uk
Household donations
Following are some options for donating your gently used items that are no longer needed:
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British Heart Foundation www.bhf.org.uk
Cancer Research UK www.cancerresearchuk.org
Oxfam www.oxfam.org.uk
Princess Alice Hospice www.pah.org.uk
Surrey Women’s Aid – Women’s Shelter Collects household items, clothing, baby items, toys, etc. for women who are left with nothing. 07966 367 931 (Barry)
Octopus Toy Lending Library www.octopus-toys.org.uk 4/5 Town Square, Bracknell RG12 1AT 07005 803 382
Local nurseries also happily take used toys.
Language schools
Many of the Adult Learning sites also offer language classes for adults so look at that section of this book as well. The local public libraries will also have information about language classes.
Berlitz www.berlitz.com
Danish Language School www.klubdanmark.co.uk 01344 885 607
Danish lessons are taught every other Saturday for children.
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German Saturday School www.germansaturdayschoolealing.co.uk North Ealing Primary School, Pitshanger Lane, Ealing, London W5 1RP 07719 992 880
German lessons for kids on Saturday mornings.
La Jolie Ronde www.lajolieronde.co.uk
Spanish or French classes for kids. Search by postcode for a location near you.
Windsor English www.windsorenglish.com 21 Osborne Road, Windsor SL4 3EG 01753 858 995
English classes for adults.
Search for classes in your area.
Legal issues
Children and the Law
• Driving Young drivers must be seventeen years old. Make sure you have car insurance even for learner drivers.
• Alcohol There are strict laws governing alcohol consumption in the UK and you should check that you are not breaking the law by allowing your child to drink. At age 16, your child can buy or be bought beer or cider to drink with a meal, but not in a bar; only in an area specifically set aside for meals. Except for 16 and 17 year-olds having a meal in a pub, it is against the law for anyone under 18 to buy alcohol in a pub, off-licence, supermarket or other retail outlet, or for anyone to buy alcohol for someone under 18 to consume in a pub or public place. Most pubs serving meals will welcome children but some pubs do not and have signs: Strictly 18 and over only. For more on drinking rules, go to www.direct.gov.uk in the Parents section (Your Child’s Health).
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• National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) The NSPCC has excellent information on leaving children home alone and understanding the law on this and children’s safety. The NSPCC operates the Child Protection Hotline which offers counselling and advice: www.nspcc.org.uk
• Leaving Children Alone at Home There is no legal age limit for leaving children at home alone, but it is an offence to do so if it places them at risk. The NSPCC suggests that children under the age of 12 are not mature enough to be at home alone and children under age 16 should not be left alone overnight. Parents are also legally responsible for any criminal act done by a child under the age of 16.
• Babysitting Age There is no legal age for babysitting. However, endangering a child by leaving them unattended is a criminal offence. The use of common sense is advised.
Notary public
To locate a notary in your area: www.thenotariessociety.org.uk
The American Embassy offers notary services for which there is a charge (london.usembassy.gov).
Libraries
To find your local library, enter your postcode at: www.gov.uk/local-library-services
To obtain a library card, you must present something with your current address – usually a utility bill is easiest. Once you have your library card, you can borrow from any of the county libraries. The library is also a great source for finding information on your local area, courses, volunteer opportunities, and free Internet for a limited amount of time. Some libraries offer story times for young children.
Ascot Durning Library High Street, Ascot SL5 7JS 01344 630 140
Egham Library High Street, Egham TW20 9EA 0300 200 1001
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Staines Library Friends Walk, Staines TW18 4PG 0300 200 1001
Sunningdale Container Library Recreation Ground in Sunningdale SL5 0QS Open Fridays only 01628 796 555
Sunninghill Library School Road, Sunninghill SL5 7AA 01344 621 493
Virginia Water Library Station Parade, Virginia Water GU25 4AB 0300 200 1001
Weybridge Library Church Street, Weybridge KT13 8DE 0300 200 1001
Woking Library Gloucester Walk, Woking GU21 6EP 0300 200 1001
Windsor Library Bachelors Acre, Windsor SL4 1ER 01753 743 940
Places of worship
Find by entering ‘places of worship’ or more specific information with your postcode at:
www.yell.com www.findachurch.co.uk
St. Francis (Catholic) www.stfrancisascot.co.uk Coronation Road, Ascot SL5 9HG 01344 620 591
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Church of Christ the King (Catholic) www.cbparish.co.uk Guildford Road, Bagshot GU19 5NE 01276 473 525
M.A. Al-Kharafi Islamic Centre www.camberleymosque.co.uk 282 London Road, Camberley GU15 3JP 01276 670 717
Assumption of Our Lady (Catholic) www.dabnet.org/parishes/Parishes/D-E/englefieldgreensurrey 91 Harvest Road, Englefield Green TW20 0QR 01784 434 280
South African Church www.sagemeente.com SA-Gemeente London – Guildford Christ’s College Guildford, Larch Avenue, Guildford GU1 1JY [email protected] 020 7353 6124
Swedish Church www.swedishlondon.com 6 Harcourt Street, London W1H 4AG 020 7723 5681
Offers various activities and confirmation. They send out a newsletter several times a year listing useful addresses for Swedish speaking dentists, doctors, banks, moving companies etc. They also sell some Swedish food.
Maidenhead Synagogue www.maidenheadsynagogue.org.uk Grenfell Lodge, Ray Park Road, Maidenhead SL6 8QX 01628 673 012
Hindu Temple and Cultural Society of Slough www.hindutempleslough.com/ Hindu Temple-Keel Drive, Slough SL1 2XU 01753 790 135
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Vishwa Hindu Mandir www.vishwahindutemple.com 2 Lady Margaret Road, Southall UB1 2RA 020 8574 3870
Sacred Heart (Catholic) www.sunningdale.org.uk/locinfo/churches.html London Road, Sunningdale SL5 0JY 01344 621 238
Holy Trinity Church (Church of England) www.holytrinitysunningdale.co.uk/ Church Road, Sunningdale SL5 0NJ 01344 621 886
St Michael & All Angels (Anglican) www.holytrinitychurch.editme.com Church Lane, Sunninghill SL5 7DD 01344 620 727
St. Mary’s (Anglican) www.achurchnearyou.com/thorpe/ The Vicarage, Church Approach, Thorpe TW20 8TQ 01932 565 986
Christ Church (Anglican) www.cc-vw.org/ Christchurch Road, Virginia Water GU25 4LD 01344 844 946
Young Life/Wyldlife www.younglife.org.uk 0844 884 8531
Call to find out about meetings near you.
ICC (Interdenominational Community Church) www.icc-uk.org 01932 830 295 St. Mary’s Church, Church Approach, Coldharbour Lane, Thorpe TW20 8TQ Rydens School, Hersham Road, Walton-on-Thames KT12 5PY
Check the website for service times and locations.
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North West Surrey Synagogue www.nwss.org.uk/ Horvath Close, Oatlands Drive, Weybridge KT13 9QZ 01932 855 400
Shah Jahan Mosque www.shahjahanmosque.org.uk 149 Oriental Road, Woking GU22 7BA 01483 760 679
Post offices
Post Offices: www.postoffice.co.uk Royal Mail: www.royalmail.com Helpline: 08457 223 344
The Royal Mail collects, sorts, delivers and transports the mail. The Post Offices provide access to the Royal Mail’s services and also provides other functions (see below). You can search for addresses, postage prices, postcodes, and more on both sites.
To find the nearest Post Office, enter your postcode: www.postoffice.co.uk/branch-finder
Post Offices are located in the newsagents on the high streets in most towns. Generally, they are open 09:00-17:30 Monday-Friday (some close at 13:00 on Wednesdays so check your branch), and 09:00-12:00 on Saturdays.
At the Post Office you can: • Buy postage stamps and send packages.
• Pay household utility bills.
• Pick up application forms to change car registration to UK.
• Pick up application to obtain or transfer your driving licence.
• Renew your road tax disc.
• Exchange common foreign currencies. They don’t charge a commission, but the rate may be a bit high. They usually have $USD and Euros on hand and can order other currencies.
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Egham/Virginia Water Post Offices: Green Road, Thorpe, Egham TW20 8QS 68a High Street, Egham TW20 9EY 14 Station Parade, Virginia Water GU25 4AB 6 The Parade, Trumps Green Road, Virginia Water GU25 4EH
Sunningdale/Sunninghill/Ascot Post Offices 5 Silwood Road, Ascot SL5 0PY 37 High Street, Ascot SL5 7HG Kings Road, Sunninghill SL5 9AA Food Fare Store, Chobham Road, Sunningdale SL5 0DH
Windsor Post Office 38-39 Peascod Street, Windsor SL4 1AA
Mail Boxes Etc. www.mbe.co.uk/ 3 The Precinct, Egham TW20 9HN, 01784 434 342 24-28 St. Leonards Road, Windsor SL4 3BB, 01753 775 797
Can be costly, but they can pack and ship items for you. They also offer express mail services.
Women’s clubs and other organisations
You may never have belonged to a club in your life and not think of yourself as a ‘joiner.’ However, contacting one of these organisations when you arrive in the UK may make your adjustment smoother and easier. Membership in the North American clubs is generally open to women holding a North American passport, women married to holders of North American passports, or those who can show strong American connections, such as children attending an American or international school.
A useful publication for expats in the UK is The American: The Transatlantic Magazine (www.theamerican.co.uk). The American is a monthly magazine for the American community in the UK and others who are interested in American culture. It has articles relevant to expats in the UK as well as listings of many clubs and organisations.
Some of the clubs in the London area:
American Women of Surrey www.awsurrey.org
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Primarily American members, but also has members from Germany, Holland, Japan, Canada, and right here from England. Men are also welcome. The group welcomes and assists new families to the area and supports philanthropic projects both locally and overseas. This is an extremely active group with over 30 clubs and activities –there’s something for everyone! AWS has a hidden Facebook group called ‘ExPats of Surrey’ that you must request to join, and you will only be added if your Facebook profile includes something to indicate you are local to the area.
AWBS, International Women of Berkshire and Surrey Club www.awbs.org.uk
The AWBS International Women’s Club is a not-for-profit, non-partisan club that provides a welcome to individuals living in England. The club represents over 29 nationalities with the purpose of welcoming and assisting all newcomers and their families through the relocation process, to promoting friendship and interaction among members and to further their knowledge and understanding of England. This organisation (AWBS) is open to all ACS families. It offers numerous social, cultural, and charitable activities each month and is a great way to get involved. The “Common Ground” magazine is published annually and lists all activities.
American Women’s Club of London www.awclondon.org
Austrian Club London www.austrianclublondon.com
Established in 1984, in association with the Austrian Ambassador in London, to maintain and upkeep the “Austrian Spirit” amongst the Austrian expatriates in London and UK nationals with a strong bond to Austria. They offer events, networking, and outings for all to enjoy and learn the Austrian way.
British-German Association www.britishgermanassociation.org
Founded in 1949 to promote Anglo-German friendship. Membership is open to anyone who enjoys German culture and is appreciative of a strong British-German relationship. Members can enjoy social gatherings, cultural events, guest speakers, and more (in London).
Canadian Women’s Club www.canadianwomenlondon.org
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Calling all permanent and temporary Canadian expats! Enjoy a wide variety of events and activities, participate in charitable projects, and best of all, meet other Canadians in the area.
Chiltern American Women’s Club (CWAC) www.cawc.co.uk
This is a group whose primary objective is to welcome and assist newcomers and their families in England.
St. John’s Wood Women’s Club www.sjwwc.co.uk
The Thames Valley American Women’s Club www.tvawc.com
TVAWC is similar to AWBS, but smaller.
For the complete listing of 32 clubs, check the Federation of International Women’s Associations in London (www.fiwal.org.uk/about-fiwal/). The list includes associations for Arab, Australian, Chilean, Turkish and New Zealand women. There is also the Federation of American Women’s Clubs Overseas (www.fawco.org).
Vox Mundi Choir www.voxmundi-choir.com
International female choir consisting of 20+ members of several nationalities. They sing two to three concerts per year, one in another country. Meetings are at ACS Egham.
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Setting up a house in the UK
If you have moved from a very different climate, or one where household heating systems are not consistent with what is most common in the UK, you may find the following household items helpful. Most can be ordered from amazon.co.uk or found locally at DIY stores, such as Homebase, garden centres or at your local ironmonger:
• Radiator trays for setting on your radiator filled with water to increase humidity levels in the house.
• A radiator brush for cleaning in and behind radiators.
• Shoe/boot mud scrapers for outside entry door to your house.
• Wellington boots.
• A water pitcher with filter (Brita) is recommended for drinking water.
• Moisture absorbing rugs to put near doors leading outside.
Electricity/light bulbs/plugs
• The electricity voltage in the UK is 240V.
• Two types of light bulbs are sold in the UK (screw bottom and bayonet bottom). Be sure to double-check the type of light bulb you need before you head to the store.
• If you are coming from another European country, you will need to have adaptors for your electrical items. The plugs have three prongs in the UK.
• If you are coming from North America and bringing 110V appliances with you, try to buy a step up/step down transformer in North America as they are much cheaper and more readily available.
• There is an old but great post on an expat site that can fill you in on the transferability of all sorts of electronics from all over the world: www.talk.uk-yankee.com/index.php?topic=12567.0
Household appliances
Please note that people who are moving are often willing to sell their household appliances and other items for reasonable prices. Check the AWBS website for listings.
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In the UK, most of the outlets will have a fuse in them. If your appliance stops working, first try changing the fuse in the outlet and see if it works.
Dryers are often condensing dryers, meaning you will have to empty the water out when it’s full (about once every few loads depending on size).
Hard water
The water in this area is quite hard.
You will need to add dishwasher salt to your dishwasher, unless you use the 3-in-1 dishwasher tablets, which include detergent, salt, and a rinse aid. This salt is available at the grocery store and will be in the aisle with the cleaning supplies.
• Certain appliances build up limescale and will need to be de-scaled on occasion to work effectively. You can buy de-scaling packets at the grocery store in the aisle with the cleaning supplies.
• Many homes now have water softeners. Please ask you landlord/realtor for guidance on proper tablets or salt blocks required by the machine. Most local hardware stores will stock and deliver salt specifically made for water softeners.
Discounts/vouchers
www.discountvouchers.co.uk www.groupon.co.uk www.moneysavingexpert.com www.vouchercodes.co.uk
Discount vouchers exist that you can print from the website or have emailed to you. Many chain restaurants have 2-4-1 deals. They also have promotional codes for online shopping sites, but you are required to provide them with your email address.
www.toptable.com This website is great for reservations at restaurants in London. It also has good deals going at many well-known and independent restaurants (see left-hand panel on home page).
www.lastminute.com A useful site for finding discounted theatre tickets and hotels everywhere.
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Passes/savings
Advantage Card Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead residents qualify for an Advantage Card which provides discounts on many leisure and shopping activities, restaurants, car parks, etc. You can apply for the Advantage Card at The Charters Leisure Centre, Sunningdale (01344 628 686) and the Windsor Leisure Centre (01753 778 588).
English Heritage Membership www.english-heritage.org.uk
With an annual or lifetime membership, exploring more than 400 castles, historic homes, and ruins will be free. These include famous sites such as Dover Castle, the Battle of Hastings Abbey and Battlefield, and London’s Chiswick House and Gardens. Membership options and discount information is available on the English Heritage website. If you have visitors coming, you might want to consider the English Heritage Overseas Visitor Pass. For £20, this pass allows free entry to over 100 historic attractions. The pass is available for a period of one or two weeks.
Historic Royal Palaces Pass www.hrp.org.uk
Hundreds of years of royal history are waiting to be explored at Tower of London, Kew Palace, Hampton Court Palace, Banqueting House, and Kensington Palace. With a Historic Royal Palaces Pass you can gain entry to these five famous English palaces as well as get into exclusive events such as rooftop tours of Hampton Court Palace and the Ceremony of the Keys at Tower of London. More importantly, your membership helps provide the funds needed to maintain some of England’s most treasured history.
Legoland Annual Pass www.legoland.co.uk
If you like the idea of an annual pass to Legoland, but don’t want to invest in the Merlin Pass, you are in luck. Legoland offers three different entry passes, the basic annual pass, full annual pass, and lifetime pass. Discounts at the amusement park’s restaurants and shops are also part of the deal, as well as free entry to popular park events such as Amazing Machines, Legoland Live, and fireworks shows.
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Merlin Annual Pass www.merlinannualpass.co.uk
This yearly pass buys entry to many top UK attractions including: Thorpe Park, Legoland, the London Eye, London Aquarium, and Warwick Castle. Many of these attractions are popular day outings with children. Make sure to read all the important membership details on the Merlin Annual Pass website for information pertaining to discounts on food and drink at participating area restaurants.
National Trust Membership www.nationaltrust.org.uk
The National Trust offers an annual or lifetime membership, which includes free entry and parking at more than 300 historic houses and gardens. Some of the more notable venues include Bodiam Castle, Stonehenge, and the Beatrix Potter Gallery. Check out the various membership options and even join the National Trust online. Children under five go free to all properties. There is also a handy, free iPhone app that, once loaded, can be used to locate any National Trust place in your area.
Student ID cards www.ISICcard.com
This Student ID cards allow students to get discounts on the trains and at movie theatres. They are also useful for travel abroad to get student prices at some museums and sites.
Windsor Great Park www.windsorgreatpark.co.uk
If you enjoy walking, running, biking, or spending a day at the park feeding the ducks, Windsor Great Park is the place to be. This thousand acre expanse of gardens, lakes and woodlands is located just a few steps from ACS Egham. There are several membership options, with one offering a discount at the Savill Garden Gift Shop. The annual Car Park Pass can also be very valuable if you frequent these parks. This card allows free parking at the following car parks: The Savill Garden, Wick Road, Virginia Water, and Blacknest car park.
Windsor Castle: www.royalcollection.org.uk/visit/windsorcastle
Remember to get your Windsor Castle ticket stamped before leaving the castle. This allows free returns for twelve months when you show the original ticket and identification.
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Tipping/gratuity
Knowing when to tip and how much can be just as confusing and awkward here in the UK as it is in many places. Nowhere is it mandatory or expected that you leave a tip. Some guidelines are:
Restaurants: It is customary to leave 10–15% for extra good service. Many places will add the gratuity on automatically to the bill. Read the fine print in the menu or on your bill when you get it. (You are not required to pay this and can even ask that it be removed). You aren’t expected to tip in a pub when you are ordering and paying for your drinks at the bar. If you get exceptional service from your barman you can leave the equivalent cost of a half pint.
Hairdressers: Not required, but if you wish to, you can either add on a few pounds or opt for 10% of the services rendered.
Post Delivery Person, Rubbish Collector: It is not the custom to tip at Christmas time.
Taxi Drivers: Typically 10% of the fare.
If you happen to head over to France, a 15% tip is usually included in your bill at a restaurant. In Germany, The Netherlands, Belgium and Switzerland you can add 5% to your bill total, but rarely up to 10%.
Family days out
Be sure to visit www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk. You can search by location to find all sorts of things to do with the kids, be it near your house or for when you plan a trip to another town or city. Of course, London is full of places to go and things to do, too numerous to list here.
Theme Parks & Leisure Centres Chessington World of Adventures Thorpe Park Legoland Coral Reef (Closed for refurbishment and scheduled to re-open sometime in 2017) Big Apple Woking (Bowling) Guildford Spectrum (Ice Skating, Bowling, Swimming) Bracknell Ski Slope & Ice Rink
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Castles & Museums Hever Castle (Hever) Leeds Castle (Kent near Maidstone) Dover Castle (Dover, Kent) Hampton Court Palace (Richmond) The Museum of Army Flying (Stockbridge near Salisbury) Warwick Castle (Warwickshire) Brooklands Transportation Museum (Weybridge) Windsor Castle (Windsor) The Lightbox Art Gallery and Museum (Woking)
Animals & Nature Look Out Discovery Centre (Bracknell) Go Ape (Bracknell) Savill Gardens/Virginia Water Park Bocketts Farm Park (Fetcham near Leatherhead) Kew Gardens (Richmond) Odds Farm (High Wycombe) Hobbledown (Epsom)
Weekend trip ideas
Accessible by car, Southwest Trains, Eurostar, Eurotunnel, and/or ferry: Bath Brighton, Portsmouth, West Wittering, other beaches Cambridge Cotswolds Devon & Cornwall English Heritage Properties (Various locations) Isle of Wight National Trust Properties (Various locations) New Forest & Beaulieu Oxford Stonehenge, Salisbury, Avebury Stratford-upon-Avon York Scotland & Wales Belgium – Brugge, Brussels France – Calais, Paris
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Embassies
Embassy of the Republic of Angola www.angola.org.uk 020 7299 9850
Argentine Embassy www.argentine-embassy-uk.org [email protected] 020 7318 1300
Australian High Commission www.uk.embassy.gov.au 020 7379 4334
Austrian Embassy www.bmeia.gv.at/en/embassy/london.html [email protected] 020 7344 3250
Belgian Embassy www.diplomatie.be/london/ 020 7470 3700
Brazilian Embassy www.brazil.org.uk [email protected] 020 7747 4500
Canadian High Commission www.canadainternational.gc.ca/united_kingdom-royaume_uni/index.aspx 020 7004 6000
Colombian Embassy londres.consulado.gov.co [email protected] 020 7637 9893
Embassy of the Czech Republic www.mzv.cz/london/en [email protected] 020 7243 1115
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Embassy of Denmark storbritannien.um.dk 020 7333 0200
Embassy of Ecuador www.ecuadorembassyuk.org.uk 020 7584 1367
Egyptian Embassy www.egyptianconsulate.co.uk [email protected] 020 7235 9777
French Embassy www.ambafrance-uk.org/-English 020 70 73 1000
German Embassy www.london.diplo.de 020 7824 1300
Greek Embassy www.greekembassy.org.uk 020 7229 3850
High Commission of India www.hcilondon.in [email protected] 020 8629 5950
Indonesian Embassy www.indonesianembassy.org.uk 020 7499 7661
Irish Embassy www.dfa.ie/irish-embassy/great-britain 020 7235 2171
Israeli Embassy embassies.gov.il/london [email protected] 020 7957 9500
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Italian Embassy www.amblondra.esteri.it/Ambasciata_Londra [email protected] 020 7312 2200
Japanese Embassy www.uk.emb-japan.go.jp [email protected] 020 7465 6500
High Commission for Pakistan www.phclondon.org [email protected] 020 7664 9200
Malaysian Embassy www.jimlondon.net 020 7235 8033
Mexican Embassy consulmex.sre.gob.mx/reinounido 020 7907 9442
Royal Netherlands Embassy www.dutchembassyuk.org [email protected] 020 7590 3200
New Zealand High Commission www.nzembassy.com/united-kingdom [email protected] 020 7930 8422
Nigeria High Commission www.nigeriahc.org.uk/ 020 7839 1244
Peruvian Embassy www.peruembassy-uk.com [email protected] 020 7235 3802
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Poland www.london.mfa.gov.pl 0207 2913 520
Russian Consulate rusemb.org.uk [email protected] 020 7229 6412
South African High Commission southafricahouseuk.com 020 7451 7299
South Korean Embassy gbr.mofa.go.kr/english/eu/gbr/main [email protected] 020 7227 5500
Embassy of Switzerland www.eda.admin.ch/london 020 7616 6000
Swedish Embassy www.swedenabroad.com/en-GB/Embassies/London/ [email protected] 020 7917 6400
Spain www.exteriores.gob.es/Embajadas/LONDRES 020 7235 5555
United States Embassy london.usembassy.gov 020 7499 9000
Venezuelan Embassy [email protected] 020 7584-4206, 020 7581-2776
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Conversions
Women’s clothing UK 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24
USA 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22
EUR 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 52
Men’s shirtsUK/ USA 14 14.5 15 15.5 16 16.5 17 17.5 18
EUR 36 37 38 39 41 42 43 44 46
Women’s shoesUK 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5 5.5
USA 5 5.5 6 6.5 7 7.5 8
EUR 35 35.5 36 37 37.5 38 38.5
UK 6 6.5 7 7.5 8
USA 8.5 9 9.5 10 10.5
EUR 39 40 41 42 43
Children’s shoesUK 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 1 2 3
US 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 1 2 3 4
EUR 23 24 25 27 28 29 31 32 33 34 35
Please note that these charts are only guidelines and can vary depending on brand and source.
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Weight and measurement
LengthUK/ USA 1 inch 1 foot 1 yard 1 mile .333 in. 39.37 in. 3.28 ft. .62 mile
Metric 2.5 cm 30 cm 0.9 cm 1.6 km 1 cm 1 m 1 m 1 km
To convert: Multiply by
Inches to millimetres 25.4
Feet to metres 0.3048
Yards to metres 0.9144
Miles to kilometres 1.6093
Weight American BritishOne cup 8 oz. 10 oz.
One pint 16 oz. 20 oz.
One tablespoon ½ oz. 1 oz.
US Imperial Metric (Standard UK)
Flour ¼ cup 1 oz. 25 g ½ cup 2 oz. 50 g ¾ cup 3 oz. 75 g 1 cup 4 oz. 100 g
Icing sugar/cocoa/cornflour 1 cup 4-1/2 oz. 120 g
Butter/Sugar 2 Tbsp. 1 oz. 25 g (castor, granulated ¼ cup 2 oz. 50 g or brown, firmly packed) ½ cup 4 oz. 100 g ¾ cup 6 oz. 175 g 1 cup 225 g
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US Imperial Metric (Standard UK)
Liquids/Cream/Yogurt ¼ cup 2 fl. oz. 50 ml ½ cup 4 fl. oz. 100 ml ¾ cup 6 fl. oz. 185 ml 1 cup 8 fl. oz. 250 ml 1 pint (2 cups) 16 fl. oz. 475 ml
Grated Cheese/Chopped Nuts 1 cup 4 oz. 100 g
Yeast 1 cake ½ oz. fresh 15 g
Temperature
Fahrenheit 32 41 50 59 68 77 86 95 104 140
Celsius 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 60
Boiling point of water = 100° Celsius, 212° Fahrenheit Freezing point of water = 0° Celsius, 32° Fahrenheit
To Convert:
Celsius to Fahrenheit: multiply by 9, divide by 5 and add 32 Fahrenheit to Celsius: subtract 32, multiply by 5 and divide by 9
Cooking Temperatures Celsius Fahrenheit
Gas mark 1 140 275-300
Gas mark 2 150 300
Gas mark 3 160 325
Gas mark 4 180 350
Gas mark 5 190 375
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Gas mark 6 200 400
Gas mark 7 220 425
Gas mark 8 230 450
Gas mark 9 260 500
All temperatures are the approximate equivalent.
Body Temperature Normal body temperature is 98.6 Fahrenheit, which equals 37 Celsius.
American to British translation
Clothes American English British English
Pants Trousers
Underpants Pants, or knickers for women, Y-fronts, or boxers for men
Sweater Jumper/Pullover
Vest Waistcoat
Men’s undershirt Vest
Raincoat Mackintosh/Mac
Umbrella Brolly (or umbrella)
Business suit Lounge suit
Backpack/napsack Rucksack
Wallet Purse
Purse Handbag
Sneakers/gym shoes Trainers/plimsoles
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Rain boots Wellies
Cleats Boots
Everyday phrases/Slang American English British English
One UK pound (£) A quid (slang)
Vacuuming Hoovering
Sports clothes and accessories Sports kit
One of a kind One off
Tired/wiped out Knackered
Whine Whinge
Fanny Pack Bum Bag
Foods American English British English
Eggplant Aubergine
Zucchini Courgette
Squash Marrow
Peanut oil Groundnut oil
Ham Gammon
Baking soda Bicarbonate of soda
Corn starch Corn flour
Corn meal Polenta
All purpose flour Plain flour
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Bread flour Strong flour
Superfine sugar Caster sugar
Powdered sugar/10X Icing sugar
Molasses Black treacle
Candy Sweets or Sweeties
Cupcakes Fairy cakes
Pie shell Pastry case
Potato chips Crisps
French fries Chips or fries
Cookies Biscuits
Rolls (soft) Baps
Popsicle Ice lolly
Dessert Pudding (general term for dessert)
Slice of bacon Rasher of streaky bacon
Plastic wrap Cling film
Wax paper Grease proof paper
Garbage bag Bin liner
Roast (of meat) Joint (of meat)
Dish-washing soap Washing-up liquid
Hamburger/Ground beef Beef mince
Baked potato Jacket potato
Jello Jelly
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Household American English British English
First floor Ground floor (entry level)
Second floor First floor (one level up from ground)
Apartment Flat
Elevator Lift
Cooktop (just the burners) Hob or stove
Faucets Taps
Living room Lounge or sitting room, a drawing room is a posh sitting room
Real estate agent Estate agent
Furnace Boiler
Back yard Garden
Trash can Rubbish bin
Dumpster Skip
Unlisted number Ex-directory
Garbage Rubbish
Jungle Gym Climbing Frame
Rubbing Alcohol Surgical Spirits
Driving/Vehicles/Transportation American English British English
Trunk of car Boot
Hood of car Bonnet
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Highway (like an Interstate) Motorway (M1, M2)
The Main Street High Street
Divided highway Dual carriageway
Traffic jam Tailback
Yield Give way
To pass (a car) To overtake
License Plate number Registration number
Sidewalk Pavement
Shoulder (of road) Verge (on motorway – hard shoulder)
Parking lot Car park (multi-story, if it’s on levels)
Semi (truck) Lorry
Station wagon Estate car
Sedan Saloon
Trailer/camper Caravan
Gasoline Petrol
Subway Underground/tube
Banking/Shopping/Going to the Doctor American English British English
Shopping bag (plastic) Carrier bag
Grocery cart Trolley
Liquor store Off-licence
Hardware Store Ironmonger
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Cashier Till
ATM Cashpoint
Gift certificate Gift voucher
Checking account Current account
Savings account Deposit account
Deposit slip Paying in slip
Family doctor General practitioner (GP)
Doctor’s office Doctor’s surgery
Emergency Room Accident and Emergency Dept (A&E), Casualty
Pharmacy Chemist
Band Aid Plaster
Specialist Doctor Their title is ‘Mr’ not Doctor
General American English British English
Flashlight Torch
(Power) outlet Mains socket
Cellular phone Mobile
First name Christian name
Last name Surname or Family name
Line of people Queue
Mail box Post box/letter box
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The line is busy The line is engaged
Collect call Reversed charge call
Vacation Holiday
One way/Round Trip Single/Return
Restroom/Bathroom Toilet/Loo/Lavatory
Intermission Interval
Soccer Football (also called ‘footie’)
Football American football
Counterclockwise Anti-clockwise
Custom made Bespoke
Wrench Spanner
Do the dishes Do the washing up
Eraser Rubber
Reading list:
A Moveable Marriage by Robin Pascoe American Cooking in England by Delora Jones British Hotels Inns and Other Places by Alastair Sawday Brit-Think Ameri-Think by Jane Walmsley Notes from a Small Island by Bill Bryson Raising Global Nomads by Robin Pascoe The Good Pub Guide – a must-have for pub goers www.thegoodpubguide.co.uk Third Culture Kids by David Pollock and Ruth Van Reken Watching the English by Kate Fox
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Websites:
www.americaninbritain.co.uk www.expatwoman.com www.austrianclublondon.com www.britishgermanassociation.org www.canuckabroad.com www.deutsche-in-london.netwww.visitengland.com www.expatfocus.comwww.german-ymca.org.uk www.expatexchange.com
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Healthcare
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FOR ANY EMERGENCY DIAL 999 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
National Health Service (NHS)
www.nhs.uk The United Kingdom has a government subsidised National Health Service (NHS). As a resident of the UK, you are entitled to use its services, which are provided to you at little or no additional cost. These services include doctor care, dentistry, specialist and hospital care, childcare clinics for children less than five years of age, eye care and family planning as well as subsidised prescription fees.
The first thing to do is register with a doctor (local surgery) in your area. This will involve filling out forms and providing some form of ID (i.e. passport). You are free to register with any doctor, provided that you live in their area and the practice’s quota of patients is not already full. Visit www.nhs.uk and put in your postal code for a list of providers in your area. If you are not able to find a practice near you with openings, contact your local Primary Care Trust for assistance. For Surrey phone 02083 351 400. For Berkshire phone 01189 183 333.
Once you’ve registered with a local doctor, you are free to see him/her. If you need to see a specialist, your GP will likely need to provide a referral.
EMERGENCY AND URGENT CARE SERVICE STEPS:
1. CALL 999: For immediate and urgent care (stated above).
2. CALL 111: a. for fast non-emergency medical help. b. if you think you need A & E or need another NHS urgent care service. c. if you don’t know who to call or you don’t have GP to call. d. if you need health information or reassurance about what to do next.
3. CALL your GP or Local Pharmacy.
Helpful websites:
NHS Website: www.nhs.uk (general info about NHS services, nearest surgery). NHS Direct Website: www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk (health, medical related info).
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NHS Direct Hotline: 111
NHS Direct operates a 24-hour nurse advice and health information service, providing confidential information on:
• What to do if you or your family is feeling ill
• Particular health conditions
• Local doctors, dentists or late night opening pharmacies
• Self help and support organisations
• Translation, if necessary.
Helpful terminology
Emergency Room A&E (Accident & Emergency) or Casualty
Doctor’s Office Surgery
Specialist Consultant, referred to as Mr./Mrs./Ms., not Dr.
Pharmacy Chemist
Physical Therapy Physio
Private health care
• Private health care is also an option in the UK and private insurance is often an employee benefit. It can also be purchased individually. Check: www.privatehealth.co.uk
No emergency care is available at private hospitals.
• It is more costly, but allows you to have control over when and where treatment should take place and who should provide the service. You also avoid potential waiting lists for non-emergency care.
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• Sometimes a specialist consultant treatment is only covered if referred by a GP, so make sure to check your policy.
• For information about both NHS and private health care: www.patient.co.uk
• PLEASE NOTE: You do not have to choose a system, but can use both depending on your needs.
• If you have private health insurance, check your policy as sometimes travel insurance is included.
• It is very simple to set up private travel insurance for reasonable cost, either via the private health insurers, the airlines (BA offers a yearly plan) or some booking websites such as Expedia offer insurance either on a trip by trip basis or yearly.
• As a UK resident you are entitled to medical treatment when visiting Europe at a reduced cost or sometimes at no charge. You will need a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This can be obtained free of charge at the EHIC website www.nhs.uk/ehic/ or by calling 0845 605 0707.
Hospitals
To find the nearest hospital: www.nhs.uk/Service-Search/Hospital/LocationSearch/8/Hospitals
Programme it into Favourites on your Sat Nav (satellite navigation) so you can find it when you are stressed and in a hurry!
Directions to the two nearest hospitals to ACS Egham
Heatherwood in Ascot (minor injuries only) www.heatherwoodandwexham.nhs.uk London Road, Ascot, SL5 8AA 01344 623 333
From ACS, turn left onto the A30. At the second set of traffic lights (across from the entrance to Wentworth), turn right onto Blacknest Road. Follow this road for about three to four miles until Ascot where it becomes Ascot High Street. Continue through Ascot on the High Street. Go straight through the roundabout. Ascot Racecourse will be on your right. Heatherwood Hospital is on your left at the end of Ascot High Street. The entrance will be just before the next roundabout.
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St. Peters in Chertsey (Accident & Emergency) www.ashfordstpeters.nhs.uk Guildford Road, Chertsey, Surrey KT16 0PZ Next to Runnymede Hospital (Private) 01932 872 000
From ACS, turn left onto the A30. Turn left at the first set of traffic lights onto Christchurch Road. At the roundabout, go straight ahead. Turn right at the traffic lights onto Trumps Green Road (this will be after you see the Virginia Water train station). Go under the bridge and turn left on Bridge Lane. Go to the end of the road (about 2.5 miles) and turn right on Holloway Hill. St. Peters Accident & Emergency is about 500 yards on the left-hand side. Follow the signs through the car park.
Local Hospitals
Frimley Park Hospital (NHS) Major and A&E www.frimleypark.nhs.uk/ Portsmouth Road, Frimley, Surrey GU16 7UJ 01276 604 604
Heatherwood Hospital (NHS) www.heatherwoodandwexham.nhs.uk London Road, Ascot SL5 8AA 01344 623 333
They only handle minor injuries (including broken bones).
Portland Hospital (Private) www.theportlandhospital.com 02075 804 400 205 Great Portland Street, London W1W 5AH
For Women and Children
Princess Margaret (Private) www.bmihealthcare.co.uk 38 Osborne Road, Windsor SL4 3SJ 01753 743 434
Royal Surrey County Hospital www.royalsurrey.nhs.uk Egerton Road, Guildford GU2 7XX 01483 571 122
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Runnymede Hospital (Private) www.bmihealthcare.co.uk 01932 877 800
Attached to St. Peter’s Hospital, Guildford Road, Chertsey KT16 0RQ.
St. Peters (NHS) (major hospital and A&E) www.ashfordstpeters.nhs.uk Guildford Road, Chertsey, KT19 0PZ Accident & Emergency: 01932 722 321 01932 872 000
Oxford Radcliffe (NHS) – Children’s Hospital www.oxfordradcliffe.nhs.uk 01865 741 166 Headley Way, Headington, Oxford OX3 9DU
Paediatricians
In the UK, most children see the GP for all routine visits and illnesses. Paediatricians are considered specialists.
DoctorNow www.doctornow.org 01494 410888
24-hour private health service that can be used in case of emergency.
Night Doctor www.nightdoctor.org.uk 0844 247 9990
A well-established private doctor service, that makes house calls, day or night. It is a membership scheme, with a family joining fee of £250. Members have access to round the clock care and consultation. If the patient requires further testing or consultation, the Night Doctor staff member is equipped to refer them to a specialist and can also provide a critical link for getting you or your child admitted into a private hospital, after hours.
24 hour global telephone service is available for when travelling, if needed.
Most international insurance plans will cover medical expenses, but most British schemes do not. For a complete list of fees, check out the group’s website.
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Princess Margaret Paediatricians 01753 743 405
Doctors (listed alphabetically by town)
Green Meadows Surgery Winkfield Road, Ascot SL5 7LS 01344 621 627
Park House Surgery 6 Park Street, Bagshot GU19 5AQ 01276 476 333
The Waterfield Practice Ralphs Ride, Bracknell RG12 9LH 01344 454 626
Park Road Surgery 143 Park Road, Camberley GU15 2NN 0844 477 3353
Upper Gordon Road Surgery 37 Upper Gordon Road, Camberley GU15 2HJ 01276 459 040
The Grove Medical Centre The Grove, Church Road, Egham TW20 9QJ 01784 433 159
Englefield Green Health Centre Bond Street, Englefield Green TW20 0PF 01784 437 671
Newton Court Medical Centre Burfield Road, Old Windsor SL4 2QF 01753 863 642
Magnolia House Surgery Station Road, Sunningdale SL5 0QJ 01344 637 800
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Kings Corner Surgery Kings Road, Sunninghill SL5 0AE 01344 623 181
Packers Surgery Christchurch Road, Virginia Water GU25 4RW 01344 842 951
NOTE: Packers requires you to live in the area for one year before accepting you as an NHS patient. Before that you can see them privately.
Clarence Medical Centre Vansittart Road, Windsor SL4 5AS 01753 861 978
Lee House Surgery 84 Osborne Road, Windsor SL4 3EW 01753 861 612; appointments: 01753 863 229
Sheet Street Surgery 21 Sheet Street, Windsor SL4 1BZ 01753 860 334; appointments: 01753 860 335
Find another surgery Go to www.nhs.uk to search by postcode for local surgery/doctor listings.
Dentists
Go to www.nhs.uk to search by postcode for local dentist listings.
Additional resources: www.bda-findadentist.org.uk www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/Healthcosts/Pages/Dentalcosts.aspx
National Health Dentistry is free if when the treatment starts the patient is:
• under age 18.
• a full-time student under age 19.
• a woman who is pregnant or has had a baby in the last 12 months.
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• staying in an NHS hospital and treatment is carried out by the hospital dentist.
• an NHS hospital dental service outpatient (may have to pay for dentures or bridges).
NOTE: When you make a dentist appointment for a child, they do not automatically clean the teeth. You will have to specifically request an appointment with a hygienist to have your child’s teeth cleaned and you will have to pay for this service. Also note that there is no fluoride in the water locally.
Ascot Dental Surgery (NHS & Private) New Road, Ascot SL5 8QB 01344 885 797
Blueberry Dental Surgery www.blueberrydental.co.uk 68 Deepfield Road, Bracknell RG12 2NX 01344 483 220 Dr Bob To
Park House Dental Surgery 20 Park Road, Bracknell RG12 2LU 01344 425 435
Full comprehensive family dental service (dentist, orthodontist, oral surgeon etc)
Camberley Dental Practice 115 Park Avenue, Camberley GU15 3PQ 01276 61626
Glebe House Dental Glebe House, Christchurch Road, Virginina Water GU25 4PT 01344 844 507
Thorpe Lea Dental Practice (NHS and Private) Thorpe Road, Staines TW18 3EQ 01784 454 899
J.B. Burt Dental Practice Station Chambers, London Road, Sunningdale SL5 0EP 01344 620 526
Sunninghill Dental Practice www.sunninghilldental.co.uk
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50 High Street, Sunninghill SL5 9NF 01344 291 744
Langley’s Dental Surgery 11 Station Approach, Virginia Water GU25 4DW 01344 842 953
Ophthalmologists
Barry Holland 01872 272 015 (Some hours at Princess Margaret)
Opticians
Go to www.nhs.uk/Service-Search/Opticians/LocationSearch/9 to search by postcode.
Boots www.Bootsopticians.co.uk
Camberley: 26-30 Obelisk Way GU15 3SD, 01276 691 006 Staines: Two Rivers Retail Park TW18 4WB, 01784 461 748 Windsor: 17-18 Peascod Street SL4 1DG, 01753 830 745 Weybridge: 23 High Street KT13 8AX, 01932 842 725
Englefield Green Opticians 01784 432 818 44 Victoria Street, Englefield Green TW20 0QX
Robinson & Lamb Opticians www.robinsonandlamb.co.uk 7 The Precinct, Egham TW20 9HN 01784 434 007
Leightons Opticians 01784 434 012 68 High Street, Egham,TW20 9EY
The Optical Studio www.theopticalstudio.com 10 Station Parade, Virginia Water GU25 4AB 01344 849 077
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Optique Opticians 4 William Street, Windsor SL4 1BA 01753 858 502
Simon Pestell www.simonpestell.co.uk 7 High Street, Sunninghill SL5 9NQ 01344 624 844
Specsavers www.specsavers.co.uk Bracknell: 18 Princess Square, RG12 1LS, 01344 303 344 Egham: 29 The Precinct, High Street, TW20 9HN, 01784 220 580 Staines: Two Rivers Retail Park, TW18 4UP, 01784 493 355
Orthodontists
Search: www.nhs.uk/conditions/Orthodontics
Cygnett www.cygnetorthodontics.co.uk/ The Malthouse, Wraysbury Road, Staines, Middlesex TW18 4XP 01784 273 880
Dentalign Orthodontics www.dentalign.co.uk Dr. Steven Kneebone
Bracknell: Burford House, Birch Hill, RG12 7WW,01344 482 292 Camberley: 67 Frimley Road, GU15 3EJ, 01276 685 238 Windsor: 47 Alma Road, SL4 3HH, 01189 775 121 Wokingham: 31 Wiltshire Road, RG40 1TS, 01189 775 121 Woking: 1 Claremont Avenue, GU22 7SF, 01483 726 488
Portmore Dental Practice www.portmoredental.co.uk 4 Balfour Road, Weybridge KT13 8HD Dr. Brazier 01932 855 011
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Walpole Specialists www.myorthodontist.co.uk Dr. Sharon Orton-Gibbs 12 Walpole Road, Surbiton KT6 6BU 020 8390 1839
Physical therapy/osteopathy/acupuncture
Graeme Rider – Openhealth Clinic www.openhealthclinic.com E3, Ascot Business Park, Lyndhurst Road, Ascot SL5 9ED 01344 625 475
Scorpio Clinics www.scorpioclinics.com
Egham: Egham Leisure Centre, Vicarage Road, TW20 8NL, 01784 433 973 Virginia Water: Christchurch Road, GU25 4PX, 01344 845 801
Windsor Remedy Centre www.remedycentres.co.uk 01753 833 299
A family and sports-injury orientated practice that offers chiropractic and physiotherapy care.
Dr. Gerald Turnbull (Chiropractor) Sunninghill 01344 870 009
Dr. Jon Cooke (Physiotherapy specialising in sports injury) Eton 07733 335 704
Pharmacies/chemists
You may want to consider bringing over-the-counter medicines that you are familiar with from your home country (eg Tylenol, Advil, children’s medicines etc).
Ibuprofen – Nurofen, Cuprofen, or Brufen.
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Tylenol/acetaminophen – Paracetamol, Panadol, Disprol, Tixymol, Calpol (Tixymol and Calpol are for children and come in liquid form).
NOTE: Although all of these medicines are available over the counter (OTC), you may have to ask your pharmacist for it. As always, read all labels.
To find a chemist/pharmacist:
www.yell.com www.nhs.uk/service-search
RF Blackburn Pharmacy 58 High Street, Sunninghill SL5 9NF 01344 620 707
Boots www.Boots.com Egham: 57 High Street, TW20 9EX, 01784 477 281 (Pharmacy open until midnight Mon-Sat) Staines: Two Rivers Retail Park, TW18 4WB, 01784 455 437 Ascot: 23 High Street, SL5 7HG, 01344 623 236 Windsor: 17-18 Peascod Street, SL4 1DG, 01753 830 745
Lloyds www.Lloydspharmacy.com Egham: 23 The Precinct, High Street, TW20 9HN, 01784 435 588 Englefield Green 98 St. Judes Road, TW20 0DF, 01784 432 161 Sunningdale: 4 Broomhall Building, London Road, SL5 0DH, 01344 620 748 Virginia Water: 17 Station Approach, GU25 4DW, 01344 843 169
Martin’s Pharmacy 01344 623 236 High Street, Ascot SL5 7HG
Millman Pharmacy 01784 432 325 56 High Street, Egham TW20 9EX
Moss Chemists (open daily 9am-9pm) 01483 770 900 34 Guildford Road, Woking GU22 7QQ
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Travel clinics
www.masta-travel-health.com (for clinic nearest you) MASTA (British Airways Preferred Partner). Appointments highly recommended.
NOTE: You should visit a travel clinic 6-8 weeks before your departure.
Princess Margaret Hospital Travel Clinic 38 Osborne Road, Windsor SL4 3SJ 01753 743 271
They also have a travel nurse, so if you are travelling to a place where certain vaccinations are required/recommended, they offer this service.
Walk-in clinics
Go to www.nhs.uk to search by postcode for local walk-in centre listings.
Slough NHS Walk-in Centre Upton Hospital, Albert Street, Slough SL1 2BJ 01753 635 505
Hours: Mon-Sun 8am-8pm
Weybridge NHS Health Centre Weybridge Hospital, 22 Church Street, Weybridge KT13 8DY 01932 826 013 Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-7:30pm; Sat & Sun 9am-3pm
Woking NHS Walk-in Centre 01483 846 209 Woking Community Hospital, Heathside Road, Woking GU22 7HS Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-7:30pm; Sat & Sun 9am-7pm
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Housing/Utilities
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Renting/buying – finding housing
The Housing Office will be pleased to help you in finding a home within the area served by the school’s daily door-to-door school bus. Families of children attending ACS Egham tend to live in the areas surrounding the campus, including Virginia Water, Egham, Englefield Green, Sunningdale, Sunninghill, Ascot, Windlesham, Chobham, Camberley, and Windsor.
ACS Egham Housing Office Phone: 01784 742 067 Email: [email protected]
There is no multiple listing service in the UK as there is in some other countries, so when you are looking for a house you will have to contact the local estate agents for availability and pricing.
There are a few websites that list available houses from several estate agents:
www.primelocation.com www.rightmove.co.uk www.zoopla.com
Finding estate/letting agents
In the UK, the estate or letting agent is working for (commissioned by) the landlord or property owner. Be aware that the agent is not necessarily working for your best interest as a buyer or tenant. You can find reputable and professional agents from the professional organisations listed below.
The National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) is a professional organisation for estate agents in the UK. Check their website for listings of local estate agents for buying property: www.naea.co.uk
0844 387 0555
The Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) is a professional organisation for letting agents to rent property in the UK. Check their website for listings of local letting agents: www.arla.co.uk
0844 387 0555
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If you are renting in the UK, you will need to get permission from the landlord to change utility providers. The landlord may also require that you change it back when you move out, so make sure to confirm this before changing providers for electric, gas, phone or water.
Estate agents
APW www.apwlets.co.uk 01344 621 718 Ascot, Virginia Water, Englefield Green, Sunninghill, Weybridge, Windsor, Woking
Barton Wyatt www.bartonwyatt.co.uk 01344 843 000 Ascot, Virginia Water, Englefield Green, Thorpe, Windsor
Buckinghams www.buckinghams.com 01344 845 050 Virginia Water
Caroline Clark www.carolineclark.net 01344 622 123 Sunninghill, Ascot
Carr www.carrandcompany.co.uk 01344 842 876 Virginia Water, Sunningdale
Chancellors www.chancellors.co.uk 01344 620 163 Virginia Water, Sunningdale
Hamptons www.hamptons.co.uk 01344 699 898 Sunningdale
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JSC Lettings www.jsclettings.co.uk 01344 624 093
Knight Frank www.knightfrank.co.uk 01344 840 020 Virginia Water, Englefield Green, Sunningdale, Sunninghill, Wentworth, Windsor
Sapphire Estates www.sapphire-estates.com 01344 870 100 Sunninghill
Savills www.savills.co.uk 01344 626 162 Sunningdale, Windsor
Waterfords www.waterfords.co.uk 01344 627 766 Sunningdale
NOTE: There are a few websites that list available houses from several estate agents:
www.primelocation.com www.findaproperty.com www.rightmove.co.uk
Interim/corporate accommodation
Clarendon Corporate Apartments 01784 489 222 www.Clarendonuk.com Wraysbury Hall, Ferry Lane, Hythe End, Wraysbury TW19 6HG
The Old Coalyard Serviced Apartments www.theoldcoalyard.plus.com North Street, Egham TW20 9RX 01784 473 939
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Area Councils
The local District Council Office is equivalent in the US to the Town Hall, and takes care of community services such as garbage and recycling, building permission, parking permits and schools. The Council is a good source of information for local children’s clubs and playgroups.
You can find your local council by entering your postcode or street and town at: www.gov.uk/find-your-local-council
Berkshire – Windsor and Maidenhead www.windsor.gov.uk www.rbwm.gov.uk 01628 683 800
Borough includes Ascot, Sunningdale, Sunninghill and Windsor.
Surrey – Runnymede www.runnymede.gov.uk 01932 838 383
Borough includes Chertsey, Egham, Englefield Green and Virginia Water.
Surrey – Surrey Heath www.surreyheath.gov.uk 01276 707 100
Borough includes Camberley, Chobham, and Windlesham.
Surrey – Elmbridge www.elmbridge.gov.uk 01372 474 474
Borough includes Weybridge and Walton-on-Thames.
Council Tax
Your local government levies council tax against your residence for public services. Even if you are renting (from a private landlord), you are responsible for paying this tax.
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Electricity
The standard electrical voltage in the UK is 240V and 50Hz, equivalent to 110V and 60Hz in the US. Understanding what is necessary to make your appliances work will facilitate your decision-making. Check to see which of your appliances come with a dual-voltage option (computers, battery chargers, etc.).
Check with a qualified electrician if you have any questions.
• Adapters: An adapter allows you to plug an American appliance into an outlet in Great Britain. Plug adapters are available for US equipment with special 110/240 (dual-voltage) capabilities. An adapter DOES NOT change the voltage. Therefore, DO NOT use an adapter on any appliances with a motor without also using a transformer.
• Converters: A device used to increase or decrease the voltage of an electrical appliance. Converters are primarily used with personal care appliances, such as rollers and hair dryers, which have a heating element. They can be used for anything that does not have a motor and draws less than 1000 watts. Converters can be unreliable and with long use may burn out the appliance, so you may prefer to use a transformer.
• Transformers: A device used to increase or decrease the voltage and the frequency of the cycle currents of a motorised electrical appliance. It is necessary to change an American appliance with 110V, 60Hz current to English use at 220/240V, 50Hz transformers are available. The size you need depends on the wattage of the appliance for which it will be used.
• Do not use the lightweight (so called 1600W) “chopper-converter” units that are widely available. They simply crop the top off the local voltage and leave a distorted waveform that can upset or destroy electronic equipment such as hi-fis and computers. Try to purchase these items in the US if at all possible. Many electronic items (such as computers) now come with built-in transformers, so be sure that you need one before you buy.
Transformer Supplier: Maplin (electronics stores) www.maplin.co.uk 0333 400 9500
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Phone services
Home Phone • If you are calling on a landline to a phone number in the same exchange, you do
not need to dial the exchange, just the last 6 digits.
• To place an international call, dial 00 + country code + number.
• The UK country code is 44.
• If calling the UK from overseas, dial 44 and then the rest of the number except the first ‘0.’ For example, to call ACS Cobham from overseas, dial 44 1932 869755.
• Dial 118 500 for directory enquiries as offered by BT (there is a small fee charged per minute).
• There are several telephone providers other than BT. Be careful – some companies use a very aggressive approach to convince you to change services. They may call and ask if you are interested in cheaper telephone rates and if you say yes, it could be taken as a confirmation that you want to change telephone services.
• Please note that the phone jacks in the UK may be different from the jacks in the country that you’re coming from and you may have to buy an adapter.
• To compare phone services and international calling rates try www.niftylist.co.uk
British Telecom (BT) www.bt.com 0800 100 400
BudgetCom www.budgetcom.co.uk 020 3414 7567
With BudgetCom you can dial an access code and get reasonable rates. The charges will be billed through your BT bill, but at the BudgetCom rates.
Talktalk www.talktalk.co.uk 0800 0491 424
With Talktalk, you must continue to pay line rental to BT, but your international calls will be cheaper. There is no monthly service fee. You just pay for the calls you make.
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Virgin Media www.virginmedia.com 0845 454 1111
Virgin currently offers the fastest broadband in the UK, but it isn’t available in all areas yet. You can choose your own bundle (phone, broadband, TV) and pay monthly.
Vonage www.vonage.co.uk 0800 008 6000
Vonage uses VOIP (voice over internet protocol) using your broadband connection to allow you to make and receive phone calls at favourable rates. You can create a virtual phone line in your home country for £3.99 that goes directly to your landline in the UK, which means your friends and family in your home country can call you for free.
Mobile phones
NOTE: It is illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving in the UK and will result in a fine and points on your licence if caught.
There are many types of phones and service plans available (O2, Vodafone, Orange, etc). You will need a bank account and a utility bill in your name before getting a monthly payment plan. Another option is a “pay as you go” phone. The following providers have retail shops:
Carphone Warehouse www.carphonewarehouse.com 0800 049 6250
Carphone Warehouse sells many types of phones and you can sign up with the provider of your choice. It is a good place to get missing pieces for phones.
02 www.o2.co.uk 08442 02 02 02
Orange (now part of EE) www.orange.co.uk 0800 956 6000
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EE ee.co.uk 0800 956 6000
T-Mobile (now part of EE) ee.co.uk 0800 956 6000
3 Mobile www.three.co.uk 0800 358 4424
Virgin www.virginmedia.com 0845 454 1111
Vodafone www.vodafone.co.uk 0333 304 0191
Carphone Warehouse www.carphonewarehouse.com Staines: Two Rivers Shopping Centre, TW18 4UP Windsor: 29 Peascod Street, SL4 1DS
02 www.o2.co.uk Elmsleigh Centre, Staines TW18 4QB 01784 451 112
Orange www.orange.co.uk Elmsleigh Centre, Staines TW18 4QB 9 Cambridge Walk, Camberley GU15 3SW
Vodafone www.vodafone.co.uk 11 Cambridge Walk, Camberley GU15 3SW 93 High Street, Staines TW18 4DP 25 Peascod Street, Windsor SL4 1DU
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Plumbing and heating
Landlords are responsible for making sure that gas fittings and flues are maintained in good order, and gas appliances that they own in their residential premises, and flues, are checked for safety every 12 months. They must also keep a record of the safety checks for at least two years and issue it to existing tenants and any new tenants before they move in. Be sure to have your boilers checked annually by a Gas Safe (formerly CORGI) registered heating engineer. You can search for a registered engineer in your area at: www.gassaferegister.co.uk
24 Heating www.24heating.com 01344 867 624
Removal companies
For moving your household items, contact the British Association of Removers for local companies who are members:
www.bar.co.uk
Rubbish collection/recycling centres
Rubbish collection is once a week at the curb or end of your driveway. You will receive a separate container for recycling (paper, steel, cans, and some boroughs will accept plastic). The charges for rubbish collection are included in the council tax that you pay each month (see council tax section).
• No charge for disposing household waste or recyclables at recycling centres. You must use your borough’s centres.
• Garden waste, engine oil, car batteries, gas cylinders, and paints, etc. must be disposed of at household waste sites.
• Your local council will correctly dispose of refrigerators, freezers, and TVs.
• Your local council will also collect large rubbish items (refrigerators, etc.) and have pest control units (wasps nests etc.) removed for a fee.
• The council has an obligation to remove rubbish from the street if you ring them.
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• There are also recycling bins for glass, paper, cans, plastic and clothing in all of the towns. They are usually in the town’s car parks.
• Search on www.recycle-more.co.uk to find recycling points close to where you live and information on allowed items.
• Check your local council website for more information pertaining to your area.
Bracknell Forest Borough Council Environment Department www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk Household Waste and Recycling Centre Longshot Lane, Bracknell RG12 1RL 01344 352 000
Swift Lane Community Recycling Centre Swift Lane, Bagshot GU19 5NJ 01276 474 470
For Ascot or SL5 residents only.
Lyne Lane Community Recycling Centre Lyne Lane, Chertsey KT16 0RA 01932 560 271
Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Waste Management 01628 796 143
Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Waste and Recycling Sites:
Braywick Civic Amenity Site Stafferton Road, Maidenhead SL6 1AY
For residents only.
Chalvey Waste and Recycling Centre White Hart Road, Slough SL1 2SF
For residents only.
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Television
All television owners require a TV Licence. You can check the current cost of a TV Licence and apply for it on online at www.tvlicensing.co.uk. Yearly renewal notices will come in the post.
All television signals are digital so if you have an older analogue television you will require a converter box to connect to an aerial. There are over fifty television channels available via Freeview in the area. If you want more channels, you can look into Sky television (satellite) or Virgin Media cable (if it is available in your area).
BT Vision Enjoy the benefits of Freeview and also add on access to their in-house library of movies and television shows as well as Sky Sports.
www.bt.com 0800 100 400
ESPN America www.espnamerica.com
Shows Major League Baseball, NFL, NHL, NBA, college basketball, etc. through Sky or Virgin Media.
Sky customers: 0344 2411 653 Virgin Media customers: 0845 840 7777
Sky TV (satellite) www.sky.co.uk The leader in the UK for digital satellite offering over 700 channels in theme packages such as Entertainment, News, Sports, and Movies.
0800 151 2747
Virgin Media www.virginmedia.com Virgin is the only digital cable provider in the UK offering a range of 45 to 160 channels as well as a few Sky options.
0845 454 1111
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SO Computers and Satellites www.sointegrations.co.uk 0845 680 3038
Independent satellite expert, specialising in installation and maintenance of most European, Middle East, Asian and South American satellite Channels: Hotbird/Astra/Nile sat/Hipasat/Thorn/Turksat
Utilities (electricity, gas, water)
Affinity Water www.affinitywater.co.uk Non-emergency 0345 357 2401Emergencies 0345 357 2407
British Gas www.britishgas.co.uk 0800 048 0202 Emergencies 0800 111 999
E.ON (Electric & Gas) www.eonenergy.com 0345 303 3040
NPower www.npower.com 0800 073 3000 0330 100 3000 Emergencies 0800 111 999
Scottish Power www.scottishpower.co.uk 0800 027 0072
Southern Electric (also Gas) www.sse.co.uk 0800 980 8476
South East Water www.southeastwater.co.uk 0333 000 0247
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Sutton and East Surrey Water www.waterplc.com 01737 772000
Thames Water www.thameswater.co.uk 0800 316 9800
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Recreation
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Adult co-ed softball
Ascot Blues www.ascotblues.com Locks Ride Recreational Ground, Forest Road, Ascot RG42 7NJ (entry is on the B3034, not Locks Ride) [email protected]
American football
www.britishamericanfootball.org
Amusement parks
Chessington World of Adventures www.chessington.com Leatherhead Road, Chessington, KT9 2NE 0871 663 4477
Legoland www.legoland.co.uk Winkfield Road, Windsor, SL4 4AY 0871 222 2001
Thorpe Park www.thorpepark.com Staines Road, Chertsey, KT16 8PN 0871 663 1673
Ballet and dance
Hurst Lodge Dance School www.Hurstlodge.co.uk Bagshot Road, Ascot, SL5 9JU 01344 622 154
www.twinkletotsdance.com Village Hall, Sunningdale SL5 0NJ Contact: Maggie 07828 857 061
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Vanessa Gardner’s Classical Ballet www.ascotballet.com South Ascot Church Hall, Church Road, Ascot SL5 9DP 07786 620478
Wentworth Dance Centre www.wentworthdancecentre.co.uk Trumps Green Infant School, Crown Road, Virginia Water, GU25 4HD Audrey: 01344 884 749
Baseball and basketball
Ascot Rockets (basketball) Charters Leisure Centre, Ascot, SL5 9QY 01344 628 686
Aztecs Basketball Club (16+ male & female) www.aztecs-basketball.co.uk Wellington College Sports Centre, Crowthorne, RG45 7PT
Bracknell Cobras (basketball U18s & U12s) www.bracknell-cobras.co.uk Garth Hill College, Bull Lane, Bracknell RG42 2AD 07760 293729
Bracknell Tornadoes www.bracknellbaseballclub.co.uk
Guildford Goldhawks www.goldhawksbasketball.com 07732 806 120
London Youth Baseball League in High Wycombe www.insports.net/londonyouthbaseballleague
Boys and girls t-ball, baseball, and softball are offered in the Spring. Sign-ups are during December and January and the season starts the end of March. Games are played on the weekends in High Wycombe (about 23 miles from ACS).
International Youth Sports (IYP) www.eteamz.com/iys
Baseball, basketball, flag football and soccer. Played near Cobham.
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Spelthorne Atoms (basketball, 7-18yrs) www.spelthorneatoms.co.uk Near Staines 01784 248 042
Surrey United Academy (basketball) www.surreyunited.co.uk Surrey Sports Park, University of Surrey, Richard Meyjes Road, Guildford GU2 7AD
Woking Blackhawks (basketball) www.blackhawks.co.uk Various locations
Birthday parties
Most leisure centres, bowling alleys and movie theatres offer parties.
The Big Apple (Laser tag, bowling, climbing zone) www.thebigapple.co.uk Crown Square, Woking, Surrey GU21 6HR 01483 727 100
Cookie Crumbles (Cooking parties) www.cookiecrumbles.co.uk 020 8876 9912
Coral Reef Waterworld (Swimming parties) (Closed for refurbishment and scheduled to re-open sometime in 2017) www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/coralreef Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, RG12 7JQ 01344 862 525
Craggy Island (Rock Climbing) www.craggy-island.com Unit 9, Cobbett Park, Slyfield Industrial Estate, Moorfield Road, Guildford, Surrey GU1 1RU 0844 880 8866
Daytona Sandown (Go-Karting) www.daytona.co.uk Sandown Park, More Lane, Esher, Surrey KT10 8AN 0845 644 5502
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Elmbridge Xcel Leisure Complex (Swimming and other activities) www.elmbridgexcelleisurecomplex.co.uk Waterside Drive, Walton-on-Thames KT12 2JG 01932 260300
Giggles Indoor Play www.gigglesindoorplay.co.uk2B London Road, Bagshot GU19 5HN01276 453555
Go Ape Treetop Adventure www.goape.co.uk Swinley Forest, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, RG12 7QW 08456 439 215
Must be at least 10 years old and 1.4m tall for the Go Ape adventure course with adult supervision required.
Guildford Spectrum (Ice skating, tenpin bowling, swimming and other activities) www.guildfordspectrum.co.uk 01483 44 33 22
Hobbledown (Children’s adventure and farm park in Epsom) www.hobbledown.com 0843 289 4979
Planet Sport (Football, Multi-sport, Cricket, Basketball, Mini-Olympics and more) planeteducation.co.uk Unit 5, Basepoint Business Centre, Andersons Road, Southampton, SO14 5FE 0800 999 7768
Royal Windsor (Drama and musical theatre parties) www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk Thames Street, Windsor, SL4 1PS 01753 853 888
Surbiton Raceway (Go-Karting) www.surbiton-raceway.co.uk Surbiton Town Sports Club, Riverhill Estate, Worcester Park, Surrey KT4 7QB 0208 337 5550
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Genevieve Ceramics (pottery painting) www.genevievethegallery.co.uk 13 Victoria Street, Englefield Green TW20 0QY 01784 430 516
John Nike Leisuresport (skiing, snowboarding, skating centre) www.jnlbracknell.co.uk John Nike Way, Bracknell RG12 8TN Rink 01344 789 000 / Ski 01344 789 002
Olympic-size ice skating rink.
Karting Nation www.karting-nation.co.uk 0844 745 5006
Various locations within 45 minutes of Ascot.
The Look Out Discovery Centre (adventure playground, hands-on science room, nature exhibition) www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/thelookoutdiscoverycentre Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire RG12 7QW 01344 354 400
Team Sport Go Karting www.team-sport.co.uk/camberley Lyon Way Industrial Estate, Camberley GU16 7ER 0844 998 0000
Blind fire Paintball www.blindfirepaintball.com 0844 481 5919 Chobham, Surrrey
Go Ballistic www.goballistic.co.uk 0844 745 5000 7 locations within 45 minutes of Ascot.
Laser Mission www.Laser-mission.com 0845 373 1838 Chorleywood, Hertfordshire (M25 Junction 17)
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Laser Quest www.laserquest.co.uk The Big Apple, Crown Square, Woking GU21 6HR 01483 727 100
Paintball Centre www.Paintballgames.co.uk 0844 477 5115 Horsley Road, Effingham, Surrey KT11 3JY
Splat Paintball (indoor) www.splatpaintball.co.uk 0844 745 5004
Indoor. Ascot and Windsor
Skirmish Lasham www.skirmishlasham.com 07836 655 556
Birthday party supplies
Parties R Us www.partiesrus.co.uk 0161 776 5644
Partypieces www.partypieces.co.uk 01635 201 844
(Founders of this online party supplier are the parents of Kate Middleton, wife of Prince William).
The Entertainer www.thetoyshop.com 0844 800 5100
As If By Magic www.aibmfancydress.co.uk 5 Winkfield Road, Ascot SL5 7LX 01344 885 585
Party supplies, costumes, face paint, helium balloons.
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Daniel of Windsor www.danielstores.co.uk 123 Peascod Street, Windsor SL4 1DP 01753 801 000
Julie Rose Party Co julierosepartyco.co.uk
Longacres Nursery www.longacres.co.uk London Road, Bagshot GU19 5JB 01276 476 778
Non-Stop Party Shop nonstopparty.co.uk 35 High Street, Cobham KT11 3DP 01932 868 675 (also Guildford)
Party Superstores partysuperstores.co.uk (also in Debenhams, Woking)
The Entertainer www.thetoyshop.com Two Rivers Retail Park, Mustard Mill Road, Staines TW18 4WB 01784 469093
Toys ‘R’ Us www.toysrus.co.uk Church Street, Woking GU21 6HD 01483 726 449
Bowling
Tenpin www.tenpin.co.uk 0871 222 3675
Guildford Spectrum www.guildfordspectrum.co.uk 01483 443 322
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Big Apple www.thebigapple.co.uk Crown Square, Woking GU21 6HR 01483 727 100
Bowlplex Camberley www.bowlplex.xo.uk The Atrium, Park Street, Camberley GU15 3PT 01276 854 100
Hollywood Bowl www.hollywoodbowl.co.uk The Point, Skimped Hill Lane, Bracknell RG12 1EN 0844 826 1454
Pine Ridge Bowl and Golf Club www.pineridgegolf.co.uk Old Bisley Road, Camberley GU16 9NX 01276 675 444
Cinemas
ODEON Bracknell www.odeon.co.uk Skimped Hill Lane, The Point, Bracknell RG12 1EN 0871 224 4007
VUE Cinemas www.myvue.com Camberley: The Atrium, GU15 3PL Staines: Two Rivers Retail Park, TW18 4BL 0871 224 0240
Ambassadors Cinema www.ambassadortickets.com The Peacocks Centre, Woking GU21 1GQ 01483 545 945
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Cultural & arts centres
South Hill Park www.southhillpark.org.uk South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, Berkshire RG12 7PA 01344 484 123
Classes in creative arts including drama ceramics, poetry, dance, etc.
Virginia Water Art Society 01784 451898
Members get together to paint, do crafts, visit local and major exhibitions. Meets in the Community Hall on the first Wednesday of the month.
Family websites
All for Kids UK www.all4kidsuk.com 01707 659383
Places to go, hotels, tours, clothes, birthday parties, etc. Search by area or activity.
Day Out with the Kids www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk
A great site for finding things to do with the kids near your house or when you visit another city.
Let’s Go with the Children www.letsgowiththechildren.co.uk 01252 368325
You can purchase an e-book detailing activities for kids in various locations.
Football clubs (boys and girls soccer)
Local leisure centres and some health clubs may offer football classes for kids.
Ascot United www.ascotunited.net Charters Sports Centre
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Bracknell Cavaliers www.bracknellcavaliersfc.co.uk
Bracknell Rovers www.bracknellroversfc.webeden.co.uk
International Youth Sports (IYP) www.eteamz.com/iys
Little Kickers www.littlekickers.co.uk
Windlesham United www.windleshamunitedfc.co.uk Field of Remembrance, Kennel Lane, Windlesham, GU20 6DT
Golf clubs
Berkshire Golf Club www.theberkshire.co.uk Swinley Road, Ascot SL5 8AY 01344 621 495
Foxhills Golf Club www.foxhills.co.uk Stonehill Road, Ottershaw KT16 0EL 01932 872 050
Lavender Park Golf Club www.lavenderparkgolf.co.uk Swinley Road, Winkfield Row, Ascot SL5 8BD 01344 893 344
Off the Red Tees www.offtheredtees.com Ladies golf group playing all courses in the area.
Queenwood Golf Club www.queenwood.co.uk Stonehill Road, Ottershaw, KT16 0AQ 01932 454 500
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Royal Ascot Golf Club www.royalascotgolfclub.co.uk Winkfield Road, Ascot SL5 7LJ 01344 625 175
St George’s Hill Golf Club www.stgeorgeshillgolfclub.co.uk St George’s Hill, Weybridge KT13 0LL 01932 847 758
Swinley Forest Golf Club www.ukgolfguide.com/swinley-forest-golf-club Bodens Ride, Ascot, SL5 9LE 01344 620 197
Sunningdale Golf Club www.sunningdale-golfclub.co.uk Ridgemount Road, Sunningdale SL5 9RR 01344 621 681
Sunningdale Ladies Golf Club www.sunningdaleladies.co.uk Cross Road, Sunningdale SL5 9RX 01344 620 507
Wentworth Golf Club www.wentworthclub.com Wentworth Drive, Virginia Water GU25 4LS 01344 842 201
Windlesham Golf Club www.windleshamgolf.com Grove End, Bagshot GU19 5HY 01276 451 122
Health clubs, sports facilities, leisure centres
ACS Cobham www.acs-schools.com/acs-cobham.aspx Portsmouth Road, Cobham, Surrey KT11 1BL 01932 588 345
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ACS Cobham, ACS Egham and ACS Hillingdon families are eligible to join the Cobham Sports Centre, which includes gym facilities and the pool.
To find local fitness centres: www.thefitmap.co.uk
Arena Leisure Centre www.placesforpeopleleisure.org/centres/arena-leisure-centre/ Grand Avenue, Camberley GU15 3QH 01276 417 111
Pools, sports hall, squash, dance, fitness centre, birthday parties.
Bracknell Sports & Leisure Centre www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/bracknellleisurecentre Bagshot Road, Bracknell RG12 9SE 01344 454 203
Charters Leisure Centre www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/charterslc_index.htm Charters Road, Sunningdale SL5 9QY 01344 628 686
Sportsball, squash, fitness centre, aerobics studio, tennis, netball.
They offer activities for 3-14 year olds (football, track and field, trampolining, gymnastics, birthday parties etc). Some adult education classes as well.
Colets Health Club www.coletshealthclub.co.uk St. Nicholas Road, Thames Ditton KT7 0PW 02083 987 108
Big squash club.
Coral Reef Waterworld (Closed for refurbishment and scheduled to re-open sometime in 2017) www.Bracknell-forest.gov.uk/coralreef Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell RG12 7JQ 01344 862 525
Pools and waterslides.
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Egham Leisure Centre www.eghamleisurecentre.co.uk Vicarage Road, Egham TW20 8NL 01784 437 695
Gym, tennis, squash, aerobic, spa, children’s activities and parties.
Foxhills Country Club www.foxhills.co.uk Stonehill Road, Ottershaw KT16 0EL 01932 872 050
Golf, tennis, gym, aerobics, spa, children’s activities and parties. You can join as a Health Club, Racquet, or full member, which includes golf.
Pennyhill Park Spa www.thespa.uk.com Pennyhill Park Hotel, London Road, Bagshot GU19 5EU 01276 471 774
Royal County of Berkshire Health Club & Racquet Club www.virginactive.co.uk/microsites/royal-county-berkshire Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell RG12 7JQ 01344 382 360
Indoor and outdoor tennis, pool, gym, children’s activities and parties.
Runnymede Spa www.runnymedehotel.com Windsor Road, Egham TW20 0AG 01784 220965
St George’s Hill Lawn Tennis Club www.stghltc.co.uk/ St George’s Hill, Weybridge KT13 0LL 01932 843 541
Tennis, large indoor swimming pool, restaurants, gym, squash courts, playground for kids, crèche, and lovely setting around a lake. They also put on a lot of events for adults and children including stage shows, quiz evenings, bands, etc.
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The Fitness Space www.thefitnessspace.com/Ascot High Street Ascot SL5 7HD 01344 875053
Virgin Active Health Club (Holmes Place) www.virginactive.co.uk Two Rivers, Tilly’s Lane, Staines TW18 4WB 01784 4818280
Wentworth Club www.wentworthclub.com Wentworth Drive, Virginia Water GU25 4LS 01344 842 201
Golf, tennis, gym, aerobics, spa, children’s activities and parties. Tennis and Health memberships or full memberships including golf.
Windsor Leisure Centre www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/wlc_index.htm Stovell Road, Windsor SL4 5JB 01753 778 577
Pools, water slides, gym, indoor sports, spa, birthday parties.
Horse riding
To find local riding centres that are British Horse Society (BHS) approved:
www.bhs.org.uk 02476 840 500
Berkshire Riding Centre www.brc.uk.com Crouch Lane, Winkfield SL4 4TN 01344 884 992
Higher Park Farm Riding School Halebourne Lane, Woking, Surrey GU24 8SL 01276 858388
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Laris Farm www.Larisfarm.co.uk Windlesham Road, Chobham GU24 8SX 01276 855 034
Tally Ho Stables www.tallyhostables.co.uk Tally Ho Farm, Crouch Lane, Winkfield, Windsor SL4 4RZ 01344 893 700
Ice skating and ice hockey
Bracknell Ice Hockey Club www.bihc.org.uk
John Nike Leisuresport www.jnlbracknell.co.uk John Nike Leisure Sports Complex, John Nike Way, Bracknell RG12 8TN 01344 789 000
Ice rink and dry ski slope.
Guildford Spectrum Leisure Complex www.guildfordspectrum.co.uk Guildford Spectrum, Parkway, Guildford GU1 1UP 01483 443 322
Guildford Flames Ice Hockey Club www.guildfordflames.com 01483 452 244 (head coach)
Slough Ice Arena www.sloughleisure.com Montem Lane, Slough SL1 2QG 01753 894 700
Slough Jets www.sloughjets.co.uk Absolute Ice, Montem Lane, Slough SL1 2QG 01753 821 171
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Moms & tots groups
Ask your local council (Child Service Information) for lists of baby and toddler groups in your area.
The National Childbirth Trust has excellent information on all matters related to early parenting and has links to clubs for parents of young children:
www.nct.uk.org 0300 330 0700
Music lessons
Many music lessons are offered at ACS. You will receive information at the beginning of the school year. Contact the school music department for more information.
Instrumentally www.instrumentally.co.uk/index.php Studio E4, Ascot Business Park, Lyndhurst Road, Ascot SL5 9FE 01344 627 300
They teach over 30 instruments.
Windsor Piano School www.windsorpianoschool.co.uk 203 Clarence Road, Windsor SL4 5AN 0800 622 6920
Polo clubs
Ascot Park Polo Club www.polo.co.uk/appc/ Windlesham Road, Chobham GU24 8SN 01276 858 545
Fifield Polo Club www.fifieldpolo.com Oakley Green Road, Oakley Green SL4 4QF 07802 835 105
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Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club www.rcbpc.com North Street, Winkfield SL4 4TH 01344 890 060
Royal Guards Polo Club www.guardspoloclub.com Smith’s Lawn, Windsor Great Park, Egham TW20 0HP (Sat Nav SL5 0PT) 01784 434 212
Rugby & cricket clubs
Chobham Rugby Club www.chobhamrugby.co.uk 01276 858 616
Chobham Cricket Club www.chobhamcricket.co.uk 01276 855 562
Valley End Cricket Club www.vecc.org.uk Between Windlesham and Chobham 01276 856 505
Windsor Rugby Club www.windsorrugby.co.uk/wrfc/ 01753 860 807
Bagshot Cricket Club www.bagshotcc.co.uk 01276 474 116
Royal Ascot Cricket Club www.royalascot.play-cricket.com 01344 622 588
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Strategic games
The Games Workshop www.games-workshop.com 0115 914 0000
8 Clarence Street, Staines TW18 4SP 01784 460 675
Swimming
Many health clubs and leisure centres offer swimming classes; check the Birthday Parties section of this welcome book as well.
Many health clubs and leisure centres offer swimming classes so visit that section of this booklet as well.
Ascot Swim School www.ascotswimschool.co.uk Licensed Victuallers School, London Road, Ascot SL5 8DR Cavan Butler, Head Teacher 07595 369768
Jema Swim School www.jema-swim-school-ascot.co.uk St Mary’s School, Ascot SL5 9JF 01784 455 205
Frogs and Friends Leisure www.frogsandfriends.org/swimschool 01344 898330
St. Johns Beaumont Swimming Pool www.stjohnsbeaumont.org.uk/sport/facility-hire.htmlv Priest Hill, Windsor SL4 2JN 01784 470414
Swim Flippers www.swimflippers.co.uk Licensed Victuallers School, London Road, Ascot SL5 8DR 01344 455 953
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Tae kwon do/karate/judo
Judo is often offered at school as part of the After School Activities. Look for the registration information to come out at the beginning of the school year and again after the winter break.
Blaze Martial Arts www.blazemartialarts.co.uk 01344 874031 Classes offered in Windsor, Ascot and Bracknell
City Combat Martial Arts www.citycombat.co.uk Charters Leisure Centre, Ascot 07950 403 786
Egham Shotokan Karate Club www.eghamkarateclub.co.uk 07815 677795
Classes offered in Egham.
Eurokwai Martial Arts www.eurokwai.co.uk 01344 842 162 Classes offered in Egham
Thames Valley Shokotan Karate www.tvsk.co.uk 07801 441193 Classes offered in Reading, Maidenhead, Windsor, Burnham.
Windsor Karate www.windsorkarate.org.uk 01628 782783 Classes offered in Sunningdale, Windsor, Maidenhead, Ascot, Winkfield.
Theatres
Official London Theatre www.officiallondontheatre.co.uk 020 7557 6700
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Get the latest kids and family theatre news, find out about child-friendly events, and browse the show pages.
Time Out www.timeout.com/london/kids/ 0207 813 3000
Guide to arts, culture, movies, museum events, etc. Mostly in London.
Visit London www.visitlondon.com
Local theatres and children’s theatres
These theatres usually do Pantomimes in the winter, a fun English tradition to do with your children. A ‘panto’ is a musical-comedy theatrical production based on popular fairy tale stories.
New Victorian Theatre www.ambassadortickets.com The Peacocks Centre, Woking, GU21 6GQ 0844 871 7615
Novello 2 High Street, Sunninghill, SL5 9NE 01344 620 881
They also do children’s birthday parties.
Theatre Royal Windsor www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk Thames Street, Windsor, SL4 1PS 01753 853 888
They also do children’s birthday parties.
Polka Theatre www.polkatheatre.com 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1SB 020 8543 4888
All the productions at this theatre are geared to children aged 0-13.
Restaurants
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Restaurants
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It is best to make a booking (reservation) for a restaurant if possible. Listed below are websites for some family-friendly restaurants in the area. Also, some pubs do not allow children or children may not be allowed after a certain time. It is best to check first to make sure children are allowed before bringing them to a pub.
Bella Italia (Italian) www.bellaitalia.co.uk
Carluccio’s (Italian) www.carluccios.com
The Gourmet Burger Kitchen (Burgers) www.gbk.co.uk
Pizza Express (Italian) www.pizzaexpress.com
Wagamama (Japanese/Noodles) www.wagamama.com
Zizzi’s (Italian) www.zizzi.co.uk
Pizza Delivery
(Check to make sure they deliver to your area)
Domino’s Pizza www.dominos.co.uk
Papa Johns www.papajohns.co.uk
Pizza Hut www.pizzahut.co.uk
Restaurants
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Restaurants (by area)
Pizza delivery (check to make sure they deliver to your area)
Domino’s Pizza www.dominos.co.uk Egham: 19 High Street TW20 9DT, 01784 471 144 Bracknell: 22 High Street RG12 1LL, 01344 300 900 Sunningdale: 109 London Road SL5 0DJ, 01344 870 000 Weybridge: 56 High Street KT13 8BL, 01932 856 999 Windsor: 181 Dedworth Road SL4 4JN, 01753 853 322 Woking: 5-7 Oriental Road GU22 7AH, 01483 760 761
Papa Johns www.papajohns.co.uk 87a High Street, Egham TW20 9HF 01784 471 999
Deliveries to: Virginia Water, Egham, Englefield Green, Sunningdale
Sopranos Takeaway www.sopranostakeaway.co.uk 01784 477 784
Herbies Pizza www.herbiespizza.com 01276 476 666
Deliveries to: Ascot, Bagshot, Sunningdale
Village Pizza www.the-village-pizza.co.uk 12 Victoria Street, Englefield Green TW20 0QY 01784 433 344
Ascot
Ascot Spices (Indian) 29 High Street, Ascot AL5 7HG 01344 623 000
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Ascot Grill www.ascotgrill.co.uk 6 Hermitage Parade, Ascot SL5 7HE 01344 622.285
Coworth Park Hotel (Restaurant & The Barn) www.dorchestercollection.com/en/ascot/coworth-park Blacknest Road, Ascot SL5 7SE 01344 876 000
Bar 1 (British) www.baroneascot.com 01344 875 123 Next to Ascot Racecourse
Hyns (Chinese) Brockenhurst Road, South Ascot SL5 9DL 01344 872 583
Mango (Indian) www.mangorestaurant.co.uk Fernbank Road, North Ascot SL5 8JR 01344 890 600
Rocksalt (Cafe & Cocktail Bar) www.rocksaltgroup.co.uk/ascot/ 55 High Street, Ascot 01372 777 777
Fego Caffé www.fegocaffe.co.uk The Hermitage, High Street, Ascot SL5 7HD 01344 874 318
Mikado (Japanese) www.mikadorestaurant.co.uk London Road (A329) Ascot SL5 7DL 01344 622 757
Rock Salt www.rocksaltgroup.co.uk/ascot/ 55 High Street, Ascot SL5 7HP 01372 777 777
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The Thatched Tavern (Pub) www.thethatchedtavern.co.uk 01344 620 874 Cheapside Road, Ascot SL5 7QG
Separate room for parties/groups.
The Stag www.gkpubs.co.uk/pubs-in-ascot/stag-pub/ 63 High Street, Ascot, SL5 7HP 01344 621 622
Camberley
Old Thai House 125 London Road GU15 3JY 01276 21212
The Atrium Mall (VUE Cinema location)
Prezzo (Italian)
Bar Estilo (Spanish Tapas)
Bella Italia (Italian)
Chiquito (Tex Mex)
Frankie and Benny’s (American/Italian 50’s Style)
Nando’s (Chicken, Burgers. Pitas, Salads, Wraps)
Wagamama (Japanese noodles)
Chobham
Blubeckers at The White Hart (Pub/Restaurant) www.homecountiespubs.co.uk/chobham High Street, Chobham GU24 8AA 01276 857 580
Good for an early family dinner.
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Mei Restaurant (Asian) www.meirestaurant.co.uk 14-22 High Street, Chobham GU24 8AA 01276 858 172
Amish (Indian) www.amishrestaurant.co.uk 36 Chertsey Road, Chobham GU24 8PQ 01276 855 532
Green Olive (Meze) www.green-olive.co.uk 65 Station Road, Chobham GU24 8AQ 01276 858 114
The Cloche Hat (Continental) www.clochehat.co.uk Burrow Hill, Chobham, Surrey GU24 8QS 01276 858 000
Located in a 16th century cottage.
Eastern & Oriental Restaurant www.easternoriental.co.uk/ 160 Windsor Road, Chobham GU24 8QX 01276 855 578
Indo (Indian) www.indochobham.com 1 Bagshot Road, Chobham GU24 8BP 01276 856 786
Pasha Delicatessen (Lebanese) www.pashachobham.co.uk/ 13-17 High Street, Chobham GU24 8AD 01276 859 004
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Egham
Café Nero (Coffee shop) www.caffenero.com 25 High Street Egham TW20 9HN 01784 471 463
Loch Fyne (Seafood) www.lochfyne.com 5-6 High Street Egham TW20 9EA 01784 414 890
You can also buy fish and seafood at their fish counter to take home or have delivered.
Prezzo (Italian) www.prezzorestaurants.co.uk 2 Egham Hill, Egham TW20 0AY 01784 472 628
SOYA (Chinese, Japanese, Indonesian and Thai takeaway) www.soyaegham.com 102 Thorpe Lea Road, Egham TW20 8BN 01784 453 211
Delivery within 4 mile radius
Subway www.subway.co.uk 27 High Street, Egham TW20 9HN 01784 432 073
Villa Rosa (Italian) www.villarosa.uk.com/ 13-15 The Precinct, High Street, Egham TW20 9HN 01784 479 090
Englefield Green
The Barley Mow Barley Mow Road, Englefield Green TW20 0NX 01784 431 857
Play area for children.
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Sopranos www.sopranostakeaway.co.uk 9 St. Judes Road, Englefield Green TW20 0BY 01784 477 784
The Bailiwick www.homecountiespubs.co.uk/bailiwick 01784 477 877 Wick Road, Englefield Green TW20 0HN
Fox & Hounds (Pub) www.foxandhoundsrestaurant.com Bishopsgate Road, Englefield Green TW20 0XU 01784 433 098
Mango Chutney (Indian) www.mango-chutney.co.uk 2 St. Jude’s Road, Englefield Green TW20 0BY 01784 433 331
Savill Garden Restaurant (Deli style restaurant at Savill Garden) www.theroyallandscape.co.uk/things-to-do/eating-at-the-savill-building/ Wick Lane, Englefield Green TW20 0UU 01784 485 402
Staines
Baroosh www.baroosh.co.uk/staines/staines-home.html 24-26 High Street Staines TW18 4EE 01784 452 509
The Slug & Lettuce (Pub) www.slugandlettuce.co.uk/slug-staines/ 15-18 Clarence Street, Staines TW18 4SU 01784 456 914
Roshni’s (Indian) www.roshnis.co.uk Thames Edge, Clarence Street, Staines TW18 4BU 01784 462 515
Restaurants
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Nando’s www.nandos.co.uk/restaurant/staines Two Rivers, Mustard Mill Road, Staines TW18 4BL 01784 441 678
Family restaurant serving peri-peri chicken.
Pizza Express www.pizzaexpress.com 12 Clarence Street, Staines TW18 4SP 01784 456 522
Pizza Hut www.pizzahut.co.uk/pizza-staines 01784 454 095 Two Rivers Mall, Mustard Mill Road, Staines TW18 4BL
Starbucks (Located in Sainsbury’s) www.starbucks.co.uk Sainsburys Causeway, Staines TW18 3AP 01784 469 262
Sunningdale
Bluebells (Fine Dining) www.bluebells-restaurant.co.uk/ London Road, Sunningdale SL5 0LE 01344 622 722
Sunningdale Lounge (Pub) www.sunningdalelounge.co.uk London Road, Sunningdale SL5 0DQ 01344 876 887
Caffé Fego (Breakfast and lunch) www.fegocaffe.co.uk/ 01344 876 464 9 Broomhall Buildings, Chobham Road, Sunningdale SL5 0DU
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Pizza Express www.pizzaexpress.com/ 01344 628 277 London Road, Sunningdale SL5 0DQ
Tiger’s Pad (Indian) www.thetigerspad.co.uk London Road, Sunningdale SL5 0EP 01344 621 215
Sunninghill
Ascot Oriental (Chinese) Closed but opening under new ownership. www.ascotoriental.co.uk London Road (and Mill Lane), Sunninghill SL5 0PU 01344 621 877
The Carpenters Arms (French) www.laclochepub.com/carpenters 78 Upper Village Road, Sunninghill SL5 7AQ 01344 622 763
Dog & Partridge (Pub & Restaurant) www.oxandfire.co.uk 92 Upper Village Road, Sunninghill SL5 7AQ 01344 623 204
The Jade Restaurant (Chinese) www.jadefountainrestaurant.co.uk 38 High Street, Sunninghill SL5 9NE
Pazzia (Italian) www.pazzia.co.uk London Road, Sunninghill SL5 0PN 01344 622 038
Belvedere Arms (Pub) www.thebelvederearms.co.uk/ London Road (next to Ascot Oriental), Sunninghill SL5 7SB 01344 870 931
Restaurants
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La Sorrentina (Italian) www.la-sorrentina.co.uk 72 High Street, Sunninghill SL5 9NN 01344 876 200
Rajvoog Tandoori (Indian) www.raj-voog.co.uk 4 High Street Sunninghill SL5 9NE 01344 627 484
The Viceroy (Indian) www.jsripatana2.wix.com/vinceroy 18 High Street, Sunninghill SL5 9NE 01344 873 062
Virginia Water
Wine Circle www.winecircle.co.uk 13 Station Parade, Virginia Water GU25 4AB 01344 843 369
Casa Nova www.casa-nova-restaurant.co.uk 10 Station Approach, Virginia Water GU25 4DW 01344 843 407
Lux II (Chinese) 16 Station Approach, Virginia Water GU25 4DW 01344 845 177
La Piazzetta (Italian) www.lapiazzetta.co.uk 17 Station Parade, Virginia Water GU25 4AE 01344 845 098
Piccolinos (Italian) www.individualrestaurants.com/piccolino/virginia-water London Road, Virginia Water GU25 4QE 01344 844 756
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Rose & Crown (Pub) www.baronspubs.com/roseandcrown Green Road, Thorpe TW20 8QL Pub. 01344 845 154
Rose and Olive Branch (Pub) www.theroseandolivebranch.com Callow Hill, Virginia Water GU25 4LH 01344 843 713
Siam Food Gallery (Thai) www.siamfoodgallery.com Trumpsgreen Road, Virginia Water GU25 4HL 01344 843 283
Take out available.
The Wheatsheaf (Pub) www.chefandbrewer.com/pub/wheatsheaf-hotel-virginia-water London Road, Virginia Water GU25 4QF 01344 842 932
Viceroy of India (Indian) www.viceroyvirginiawater.webs.com 4 Station Approach, Virginia Water GU25 4DL 01344 843 157
Windlesham
The Bee (Pub) www.thebeepub.co.uk School Road, Windlesham GU20 6PD 01276 479 244
The Brickmakers Arms (Pub) www.thebrickmakerswindlesham.co.uk Chertsey Road, Windlesham GU20 6HT 01276 472 267
Restaurants
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Half Moon (Pub) www.thehalfmoonwindlesham.com Church Road, Windlesham, Surrey GU20 6BN 01276 473 329
Outside play area for children.
Fuchi (Chinese) www.themingrestaurant.co.uk 830 London Road, Windlesham GU20 6PG 01276 47380
The Windmill (Pub) www.thewindmillwindlesham.co.uk London Road, Windlesham GU20 6PJ 01276 451 330
Winkfield
The Winning Post (Pub) www.winningpostwinkfield.co.uk Winkfield Street, Winkfield SL4 4SW 01344 882 242
Don Beni (Italian) www.don-beni.co.uk/index.php/our-restaurants/winkfield Chavey Down Road, Winkfield Row RG42 6NH 01344 884 480
Loch Fyne (Fish) www.lochfyne.com Windsor Road, Winkfield SL4 2DE 01344 894 760
Weybridge
The Minnow Pub www.theminnow.co.uk 104 Thames St, Weybridge KT13 8NG 01932 831 672 Great food and atmosphere, but not so good for kids.
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The Queens Head www.whitebrasserie.com 1 Bridge Road, Weybridge KT13 8 XS 01932 839 820
Good food and good for kids (crayons, etc, to keep them busy while waiting for food).
Windsor
Al Fassia (Moroccan) www.alfassiarestaurant.com 27 St Leonards Road, Windsor SL4 3BP 01753 855 370
Bella Italia (Italian) www.bellaitalia.co.uk 31 Thames Street, Windsor SL4 1PR 01753 864 122
Carluccio’s (Italian) www.carluccios.com/restaurants/windsor Windsor Royal Shopping Centre, Windsor SL4 1PJ 01753 852 019
Francesco’s (Italian) www.francescos.uk.com 53 Peascod Street, Windsor SL4 1DE 01753 863 773
The Gourmet Burger Kitchen (Burgers) www.gbk.co.uk Windsor Royal Shopping Centre, Windsor SL4 1PJ 01753 857 814
Green Olive (Greek) www.green-olive.co.uk 10 High Street, Windsor SL4 6NA 01753 866 655
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123
La Tasca (Spanish Tapas) www.latasca.co.uk/windsor Royal Windsor Station, Windsor SL4 1PJ 01753 852 288
Pizza Express www.pizzaexpress.com/ 7 Thames Street, Windsor SL4 1PL 01753 856 424
Punto Pizzeria and Restaurant (Old Windsor) www.restaurantpunto.co.uk 3 Wheatsheaf Parade, St. Lukes Road, Old Windsor SL4 2QH 01753 868 758
Two Brewers (Pub, no children) www.twobrewerswindsor.co.uk 34 Park Street, Windsor SL4 1LB 01753 855 426
Wagamama (Japanese/Noodles) www.wagamama.com/restaurants/windsor 31 High Street, Windsor SL4 1PH 01753 833 105
Zizzi’s (Italian) www.zizzi.co.uk 24-27 Thames Street, Windsor SL4 1PL 01753 842909
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Services/Businesses
Services/Businesses
125
Babysitters/nanny/childcare agencies
American Women of Berkshire and Surrey (AWBS) members have access to a list of babysitters by area on the AWBS website (www.awbs.org.uk).
Allbairns www.allbairns.com 01494 793889
Greycoat Placements www.greycoatplacements.co.uk 020 7233 9950
Mortimer Nannies www.mortimernannies.co.uk 07793 502 483
Sitters Babysitting Agency www.sitters.co.uk 08447 367 367
Smileys Childcare Agency www.smileys-childcare.co.uk 0845 201 1630
Childcare www.childcare.co.uk/search/Babysitter/Ascot A list of babysitters in the Ascot area.
Banking
Banking information: • A deposit slip in the UK is called a paying-in-slip.
• To write a British cheque: the first line is for the payee, the second line is for pounds, the third line is for pence.
• Opening a bank account in the UK can be more difficult than one may expect. Make sure you come prepared. Bring along a picture ID, proof of residence (at least one utility bill or other document with your UK address), six months worth of prior bank statements, and even a marriage certificate (if opening a joint account).
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• If your bank card is lost or stolen, you cannot get an immediate replacement. The bank card must be posted to you, which can take 3-5 working days.
• If your spouse was the first to open the bank account and you wish to be added, please be patient, the process can take a couple of weeks.
• NOTARY – The process of getting documents notarised is not as quick in the UK as you may be used to in your home country. You have to make an appointment locally, then the documents are sent to London (or you can drive them and wait in line there).
Note: The 1st line is for the payee, 2nd line for pounds, and 3rd line for pence.
Barclays www.barclays.co.uk
Citibank www.citibank.co.uk
Cash Bank PLC
Cheque No.
Pay
Cas
h B
ank
PLC
05/
14
Sort Code
Only Date
Account No.
72-07-07
27380826
27380826 14 0468 12378921 01
£ACS School PTO 2 May 2014
Jane E Smith
80.75Eighty pounds and
seventy-five pence
Cash Bank PLC
Cheque No.
Pay
Cas
h B
ank
PLC
05/
14
Sort Code
Only Date
Account No.
72-07-07
27380826
27380826 14 0468 12378921 01
£ACS School PTO 2 May 2014
Jane E Smith
80.00Eighty pounds only
Services/Businesses
127
Halifax www.halifax.co.uk
HSBC www.hsbc.co.uk
Lloyds www.lloydsbank.com
NatWest www.natwest.com
Santander www.santander.co.uk
Barclays www.barclays.co.uk 46 High Street, Egham TW20 9EP 08457 555 555
HSBC www.hsbc.co.uk 29 High Street, Camberley GU15 3RE 6 Station Road North, Egham TW20 9LH 08457 404 404
Lloyds www.lloydstsb.com 21 High Street, Ascot SL5 7JE 08453 000 000
NatWest www.natwest.com 5 High Street, Bracknell RG12 1DH, 08456 013 399 50 High Street, Egham TW20 9EU, 08456 101 202 London Road, Sunningdale SL5 0EJ, 08453 052 248
Notary www.horneengallandfreeman.co.uk 47 High Street, Egham, Surrey TW20 9ES 01784 432 292
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Car valeting
Finesse Detailing www.finessedetailinguk.co.uk 07711 905 868
Finesse Detailing provides a professional and reliable mobile vehicle valeting service. They offer a wide range of services and will come to your home or office.
Caterers
Joy of Taste www.joyoftaste.co.uk Private catering and cooking schools, Sunningdale Call Susan on 07726 956 311
The Food Cellar Ascot Business Park, Lyndhurst Road, Ascot Call Jane on 01344 876 611
Specialised celebration cakes
Foxy Cake Company www.foxycakes.co.uk 7 High Street, Eton 01753 859 111
Cleaning services
Clean R Home – Domestic Cleaning Services 0800 0842 767 07771 734 618 [email protected]
Cookerburra Oven Cleaning Services www.cookerburra.co.uk 01276 805 155
First Class Domestic Services 07824 885 709 Contact: Svajunas
Professional house cleaning, general garden maintenance, rubbish removal and more.
Services/Businesses
129
MyHome Residential Cleaning www.myhome.co.uk 08450 668 866
Swift Cleaning Services (Carpet) www.Swiftcleaning.com 08000 191 420
They can do spot cleaning or whole rooms. They charge a minimum fee to come to your house.
Thames Carpet Cleaners (Carpet/Rugs) www.thamescarpets.co.uk 01491 574 676
Professional carpet cleaning of Oriental and Persian rugs. They pick up and deliver your carpet back in about two weeks. Delivery costs apply.
Dry cleaners
Eefos www.Eefos.com 64a High Street, Sunninghill SL5 9NN 01344 621 083
Environmentally friendly dry cleaning.
Harringtons Dry Cleaners www.Harringtonsdrycleaners.co.uk 14 Broomhall Bldg, Chobham Road, Sunningdale SL5 0DU 01344 623 642 9 Station Approach, Virginia Water, GU25 4DW 01344 844 716
Sainsbury’s The Causeway, Staines, TW18 3AP 01784 450 423
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Johnson’s www.Johnsoncleaners.co.uk 3 The Hermitage Parade, High Street, Ascot SL5 7HE 01344 622 873 21 Station Parade, Virginia Water GU25 4AE 01344 842 304
Panache Dry Cleaners 44 High Street, Egham TW20 9DP 01784 477 300
Playhouse Cleaners www.playhousecleaners.co.uk 28 High Street, Sunninghill SL5 9NE 01344 874 464
Hair salons
Thatcher’s Hair Salon 27 Cheapside Road, Ascot SL5 7QR 01344 628 302
Chobham Hair Studio (Aveda) www.chobhamhairstudio.com 2 Chertsey Road, Chobham GU24 8NB 01276 855 585
Hair Advice Centre www.hairadvice-centre.com 8 St. Judes Road, Englefield Green TW20 0BY 01784 470 056
Isis hair www.isishairdressers.com London Road, Sunningdale, SL5 0DP 01344 620 055
Services/Businesses
131
John Jenkins www.john-jenkins.co.uk 63 Cobham Road, Sunningdale SL5 0DT 01344 620 598 21 High Street, Chobham GU24 8AD 01276 857 249
Sarah Galliers www.Sarahgalliers.com 30 High Street, Sunninghill 01344 874 448
Smile Hair Salon www.smilehair.co.uk 2 The Hermitage, High Street, Ascot SL5 7HD 01344 626 026
The Glass House www.theglasshouse-uk.com 5 Station Approach, Virginia Water GU25 4DL 01344 842 266
Toni & Guy www.toniandguy.com/salon/information/114 49 High Street, Ascot SL5 7HG 01344 878 800
MOVA www.mova.co.uk/ 15 Station Parade, Virginia Water GU25 4AE 01344 843 500
Make-up artist & hair studios
Aura Spa www.auraspa.co.uk Ascot 01344 621 530 Chobham 01276 858 989 Suzie Coxon Make-up Artist
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Leo Mancini Hair and Beauty Salon www.leomancinihairandbeautysalon.co.uk 11 Silwood Road, Sunningdale SL5 0PY 01344 626 858
Handyman/household services
House Masters: General handyman service, including painting, cleaning, dog walking and errands. They may also be able to source used appliances at reasonable prices and will service vehicles. Barry also does car detailing.
Barry: 07966 367 931 Darren: 07949 071 199
Odjobs www.Odjobs.co.uk Bridge Road, Sunninghill SL5 9NL Jon Hughes: 07977 223 948
Jamie Hutchinson (Personal Computer Repair) www.my-pc-healthcare.co.uk [email protected] 01784 472 540
Hotels
Berystede Hotel and Spa www.Berystede.com Bagshot Road, Sunninghill SL5 9JH 01344 623 311
Brockenhurst Hotel www.brockenhurst.com Brockenhurst Road, Ascot SL5 9HA 01344 621 912
Coworth Park (and Spa) www.Coworthpark.com Blacknest Road, Ascot SL5 7SE 01344 876 600
Services/Businesses
133
Great Fosters www.Greatfosters.co.uk Stroude Road, Egham TW20 9UR 01784 433 822
The Pennyhill Park Hotel & Spa www.pennyhillpark.co.uk London Road, Bagshot GU19 5EU 01276 471 774
The Royal Berkshire www.ehvenues.com/royalberkshire London Road, Sunningdale SL5 0PP 01344 623 322
The Runnymede Hotel & Spa www.Runnymedehotel.com Windsor Road, Egham TW20 0AG 01784 436 171
Insurance companies
Halifax www.halifax.co.uk/insurance/ 0345 246 3564
Aviva www.aviva.co.uk 0800 015 6227
Direct Line www.directline.com 0345 246 3761
More Than www.morethan.com
Quantum www.quantumplc.com 020 3137 5087
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Service Insurance Bureau (SIB) www.serviceinsurance.co.uk 01252 329 772
Online Quotes from Several Carriers www.confused.com www.gocompare.com
Jewellers
Tom French Jewellery www.tomfrenchjewellery.co.uk 1 Hermitage Parade, High Street, Ascot SL5 7HE 01344 624 555
Repairs, resetting, design, pearl restringing, watch repairs and valuations for insurance.
Precious Love 01344 874 496 24A High Street, Sunninghill SL5 9NE Gifts for Valentine’s Day, Christmas, birthdays and christenings.
Ascot Goldsmiths www.ascotgoldsmiths.co.uk 2 Course Road, High Street, Ascot SL5 7HL 01344 844 444
Jason Charles www.jasoncharlesjewellery.co.uk 24 High Street, Sunninghill SL5 9NE 01344 874 496
Laundry and ironing service/mending
Launder & Press 01344 844 339 8 The Parade, Trumps Green Road, Virginia Water GU25 4EH
Large washers and dryers, you can also drop off your laundry here for them to do; great for comforters/duvets and sleeping bags as well as dress shirts and ironing.
Services/Businesses
Iron Easy www.ironeasy.co.uk [email protected] 01344 427 070
They pick up and deliver.
The Ironing Service www.theironingserviceascot.co.uk 01344 886 000 Helen Ward 07718 739 693
Pick up and delivery service of laundry, ironing, dry cleaning and small mending jobs.
Launderama 01784 435 541 71 High Street Egham TW20 9EY
Laundromat that can also do shirts, alterations, repairs, duvets, and curtains.
Shoe repair and key cutting
Ascot Locks www.ascotlocks.co.uk 32 High Street, Sunninghill SL5 9NE 01344 626 791
Timpson www.timpson.co.uk Ascot: c/o Brooks Cleaning, Hermitage Parade, High Street, Ascot, SL5 7HE, 01344 625 036 Egham: Unit 2 60/63 High Street, Egham TW20 9EX, 01784 434 106
Newsagents
Newsagents are located on the High Streets in most towns. If you want to have home delivery of a newspaper, check with your local newsagent to see if you can get on the delivery list.
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Online directories
www.yell.com Online yellow pages.
www.locallife.co.uk Online guide for everything in your local area (search by city or post code)
Passport photos (including US size)
There are photo booths in many large supermarkets.
Cobham Camera www.cobhamcameras.co.uk 01932 863743
Artis Studios www.artisstudios.com High St, Sunninghill SL5 9NF 01344 870 033
Photographs are taken by a professional and you can check you are happy with it prior to printing. Great for babies and children, especially when they are small.
Snappy Snaps www.Snappysnaps.co.uk Staines: 57 High Street, Staines TW18 4QH, 01784 460 333 Windsor:141 Peascod Street, Windsor SL4 1DA, 01753 855 020
Pets
If you’re planning on bringing a pet with you when you move to the UK, please be aware that this involves many rules and regulations, possibly including quarantine. Read up on the rules so everything goes as smoothly as possible. The information also applies to pets leaving and returning to the UK, for example if you want to take your dog with you on holiday to France. The Department for Food Environment and Rural Affairs has all the information you need. The website is www.gov.uk/take-pet-abroad or call 0370 241 1710.
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Services/Businesses
Dog groomers
The Dog House www.thedoghousebracknell.co.uk 01344 456 750 32 Wellbeck, Bracknell RG12 8UQ
K-9 Cuts Mobile Dog Groomer www.thekennelshop.co.uk/k9-cuts.html 01844 354 023
Paws at Penny’s 2 Chestnut Drive, Windsor SL4 4UT 01753 620 110
The Groom Room 01753 842 577 2 Manor Farm Close, Windsor SL4 4DJ www.thegroomroomwindsor.com
Posh Paws 52A Pooley Green Road, Egham, TW20 8AF 01784 436 995
Kennels
Tarbay Centre www.tarbaycentre.com Tarbay Lane, Oakley Green, Windsor SL4 4QG 01753 868 688
Kennel, cattery, grooming, and hydrotherapy.
Wey Farm Boarding Kennels and Cattery www.weyfarm.co.uk Guildford Road, Otthershaw KT16 0QW 01932 873 239
Willowslea Kennels www.airpets.com Spout Lane North, Stanwell Moor, Staines TW19 6BW 01753 685 571
Pet travel, boarding, quarantine.137
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Egham Cattery www.eghamcattery.co.uk West Acre, Hurst Lane, Egham TW20 8QJ 01344 843 521
Pet food
The Pet Food Kingdom www.petfoodkingdom.co.uk Wyevale Garden Centre, London Road, Windlesham, GU20 6LL 01344 623 463
Shipping and delivery available.
The Animal Inn www.theanimalinn.co.uk 52 Clewer Hill Road, Windsor SL4 4BW 01753 840 063
Pets Corner www.petscorner.co.uk Wyevale Garden Centre, Dedworth, Windsor, SL4 4LH 01753 853 494
Essential Pet Foods www.essentialpetfoods.com High Street, Sunninghill SL5 7BX 01344 622 650
Delivery available.
The Animal Inn www.theanimalinn.co.uk 52 Clewer Hill Road, Windsor SL4 4BW 01753 840 063
Pet insurance
Healthy Pets www.healthy-pets.co.uk 01730 268 592
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Services/Businesses
Petpals Direct www.petpalsdirect.co.uk 0800 328 9847
Pet Plan www.petplan.co.uk 08450 771 934
Can claim for LIFELONG treatment with Pet Plan, whereas some plans only cover first year of an ongoing treatment.
Dog insurance is recommended in the UK as bills for infections and injuries can run quite high. Check with your vet for more information on insurance.
Dog walking/training
Association of Pet Dog Trainers www.apdt.co.uk 01285 810 811
A respected organisation that guarantees the quality of its member trainers. You can search for a trainer in your area.
Wentworth Walkies Becky Ward 07843 860 834 Collection and return dog walking service.
Pet Necessities www.petnecessities.co.uk Sarah Hickmont 07969 997 272
Waggy Tails Dog Walking www.waggytailsdogwalking.co.uk 07971 025 140 Based in Egham
A Dog Walker 4 You www.adogwalker4you.co.uk 01276 453 925
Covers Surrey, Berkshire and some of Hampshire.
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Pet sitting
Barking Mad www.barkingmad.uk.com 01784 421 393
Pets are taken care by a host family. Search by postcode for your area’s representative.
Petpals www.petpals.com 01264 326 362
Spoiled Rotten Pets www.spoiledrottenpets.co.uk 01932 576 354
Dog boarding in private homes in Berkshire and Surrey.
Wentworth Walkies Becky Ward 07843 860 834 Becky boards dogs in her home.
Paws Around Berkshire www.pawsaroundberkshire.co.uk/berkshire-local/walkerssittersday-carers/
Veterinarians
Alma Veterinary Hospital www.almavetwindsor.co.uk 75 Alma Road, Windsor SL4 3HE 01753 858 893
Davies Veterinary Specialists www.vetspecialists.co.uk Manor Farm Business Park, Higham Gobion, Herts SG3 3HR 01582 883 950
Multi-specialist care and small animal referral centre. Employs more than 30 vet specialists and 50 nurses. They cover anaesthesia, cardiology, diagnostic imaging, internal medicine, neurology, oncology, ophthalmology, orthopaedic, and soft tissue surgery. (About an hour and ten minutes drive from the ACS campus).
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Services/Businesses
Forest House Veterinary Hospital www.foresthousevets.com Ascot: 2 Hermitage Parade SL5 7H, 01344 624 557 Egham: 105 High Street TW20 9HQ, 01784 434 675 Windsor: 28 Clewer Hill SL4 4BS, 01753 858 877
Runnymede Hill Veterinary Hospital (Pets 1st) www.runnymedevets.co.uk Egham: Tite Hill, TW20 0NB, 01784 436 367 Sunningdale: 72 Chobham Road, Sunningdale SL5 0HG, 01344 620 504
Sunninghill Veterinary Centre www.sunningvet.co.uk 27 High Street, Sunninghill SL5 5NG 01344 299 899
Virginia Water Veterinary Clinic www.virginvet.co.uk 447 Stroud Road, Virginia Water GU25 4BU 01344 841 801
Photographers
Artis Studios www.artisstudios.com High St, Sunninghill SL5 9NF 01344 870 033
Carey Sheffield Photography www.careysheffield.com London Road, Ascot 07831 849 148
Jo Scott Images www.joscottimages.co.uk Coopers Hill Lane, Englefield Green TW20 0LB 07793 205 155
Kate Gray kategrayphotography.com Windsor 07832 301 500
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Natural Portraits www.naturalportraits.net 01932 563 318 Contact Stuart Boreham
Steve Head Photography www.steveheadphotography.co.uk 01276 507 629
Steve Head has been to the ACS campus to photograph many of our school’s families.
Venture Photography www.venturephotography.com 109 High Street, Eton SL4 6AN 01753 670 161
Melanie Frobisher – Photo Art www.melaniefrobisher.com
Framed art images and photo gifts (canvas prints, luggage tags, cards) created from photographs of London and the local area. Bespoke prints or photo gifts can also be created from your images.
07780 858 606
Piano servicing/rental
Chris Dolby – piano training and repairs www.dolbysound.com 1 Kyle Close, Bracknell, RG12 7AF 01344 429 245, 07836 737 255
Maintenance, servicing in Berkshire and Surrey.
Handel Pianos Ltd www.handelpianos.co.uk London Road, Sunningdale SL5 0DJ 01344 873 645, 07973 293 823 (Chris Lovell)
Piano sales and rentals, as well as maintenance and servicing.
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Services/Businesses
Travel agents
Bespoke Vacations www.bespokevacations.co.uk 01344 876 999
Travel Counsellors www.travelcounsellors.co.uk Suzanne Powell-Edwards, [email protected] 0845 058 7285
Specialist Travel www.specialists-travel.com 16 High Street, Sunninghill SL5 9NE 01344 627 586
Travel insurance
Even if you have private health insurance, travel insurance in the UK is important. If you miss a flight because of illness, you will have to forfeit your entire holiday if you do not have travel insurance. It is often better to buy an annual policy through your insurance company than to buy it through the holiday provider each time you travel. Check with your bank to see if you have or can get travel insurance with your account.
www.confused.com Provides quotes from various providers.
Post Office
www.postoffice.co.uk 0345 611 2970
Travel insurance is one of the many services offered by the Post Office. You can buy annual or single-trip insurance.
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Window washing
Mister Klean www.mister-klean.com 31 Chestnut Road, Farnborough GU14 8LD 01252 904961
The Window Washing Company 08456 434 322
Clean R Home – Window Cleaning & Gutter Cleaning www.cleanrhome.com [email protected] 0800 0842 767
Mr Suds www.sudswindowcleaning.com 01344 466 183
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Antique markets
Portobello Market www.portobelloroad.co.uk
The world’s largest antiques market – open every Saturday (7am – 5pm), shops open six days a week. Portobello Road is three kilometres west of Marble Arch and easy to reach by road or underground from anywhere in London. There are two underground stations: Ladbroke Grove (Hammersmith & City Lines) or Notting Hill Gate (Central, Circle and District Lines). The following buses stop in or near the market: 7, 12, 23, 27, 28, 31, 70, 94 and 328.
Ardingly www.Iacf.co.uk Selsfield Road, Ardingly, West Sussex RH17 6TL
Bermondsey www.bermondseysquare.co.uk Tube: London Bridge, Long Ln. and Bermondsey St. Friday 4am-1pm
Kempton Market (Sunbury Antiques Market) www.kemptonantiques.com
Every second and fourth Tuesday from 6:30 am until mid day.
Areas for shopping
Ascot High Street Shopping – clothing (all ages), jewellers, restaurants/cafes, butcher, patisserie, newsagents, pharmacy, post office and more.
Bicester (Pronounced Bister) outlet mall (50 miles from ACS) www.bicestervillage.com
Bluewater Mall (indoor mall 56 miles from ACS) www.bluewater.co.uk Greenhithe, Kent (M25 junction 2)
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Bracknell Princess Square Mall – WHSmith, Boots Chemist, Argos, Claire’s, Waterstone’s Books, clothing, sports shops, jewellers, phone shops etc.
The Peel Centre – Curry’s, Halfords, Focus, Harvey’s, Morrison’s, cinema, bowling, restaurants.
Camberley Main Square Mall (9 miles from ACS).
Guildford On and around the High Street area (23 miles from ACS).
Kingston-upon-Thames By Clarence and Eden Streets (14 miles from ACS).London Some of the many different areas to visit for specific needs include:
• London electronics area – Tottenham Court Road.
• London jewellery district – Hatton Garden (Holborn Tube) www.hattongarden.com
• London department stores – Oxford and Regent Streets, Knightsbridge area.
• Designer shops – Old and New Bond Streets and Sloane Street area.
• Small fashion/boutiques – streets around Covent Garden and Carnaby Street.
• Bespoke tailoring – Piccadilly, Jermyn Street and Savile Row.
• Music shops – the mega stores, also the Soho area.
• Bookshops – Waterstone’s and WH Smith, also old book shops on Charing Cross Road.
• Westfield Mall – indoor mall, Westfield.com
• Bentall Centre – indoor mall in Kingston, www.thebentallcentre.com
London Markets
Borough Market www.boroughmarket.org.uk 020 7407 1002
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Borough Market is London’s oldest food market. It is on the south bank of the Thames and has a long and distinguished history as a wholesale fruit and vegetable market. Borough Market is busy, noisy and bustling with wonderful produce. It is best to go early and bring a large, strong bag or shopping trolley. If you are not familiar with the produce on the stalls, or you are not sure how to cook it, just ask – the traders will be delighted to tell you about their specialities. Check out the website for a breakdown of the important areas. Scandelicious has a stall at Borough Market where they sell freshly prepared Scandinavian dishes on Fridays and Saturdays. The Market is a bit of a maze, but exploration yields delicious rewards!
Thursdays: 11am–5pm Fridays: 12pm–6pm Saturdays: 8am–5pm
Brick Lane Markets www.sundayupmarket.co.uk 020 7770 6028
Sunday UpMarket – over 140 stalls selling fashion, accessories, crafts, undoubtedly one of London’s most exciting and imaginative markets. The market is in the Old Truman Brewery and the many things you will find are one-off bespoke items produced by the stallholders themselves. You can find everything from edgy women’s wear, customised men’s clothing, high fashion, and beautifully-tailored children’s clothes to handmade jewellery. UpMarket’s famous food area includes Ethiopian hand roasted coffee, Turkish specialities, lovely Moroccan dishes, Spanish paellas and empanadas, hand-rolled sushi (done in front of you), Japanese sweets, and savoury pancake, Carrom Cafe’s lassi, chai and Indian street snacks, Thai and Caribbean food, etc.
Sundays: 10am-5pm
Ely’s Yard (entrances on Brick Lane & Hanbury Street) www.trumanbrewery.com/ www.bricklanemarket.com/events/elys_yard/EY.html
The Old Truman Brewery, London E1 (Aldgate East/Liverpool Street Tube) 020 7770 6000
The Backyard Market – with almost 100 stalls; jewellery, clothing, accessories, arts and crafts, food and more, this market has breathed new life into a once derelict and unassuming warehouse on Brick Lane since 2006.
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Broadway Market www.broadwaymarket.co.uk
Broadway Market in London E8 runs from London Fields to Regent’s Canal. It is a section of a pedestrian and cycle-friendly route from Hackney Empire, past London Fields station and throughout the park. Bethnal Green is the nearest tube station. Food: African, French, English, Caribbean. Fashion: Hats, shoes and frocks. The inventive come for the retro and vintage pieces. There is plenty for grown-ups and lots of pretty stuff for babies. The neighbourhood is home to a warren of tiny studios and galleries; the arts charity space houses 60 artists in its Mare Street building alone. Exhibitions appear suddenly – watch for the posters, especially in the summer.
Spitalfields Market www.spitalfields.co.uk
In addition to the many shops and places to eat:
• Arts Market – set on Market Street in Spitalfields, the Spitalfields Arts Market is a great place to browse and buy affordable art direct from established and up and coming artists; runs from the first Thursday through to the Sunday of each month. In November and December the Arts Market runs every week up to Christmas.
• Spitalfields Traders Market – the stalls range from contemporary and vintage fashion, music, bespoke children’s toys, jewellery and accessories and interiors for the home. The market is also surrounded by a host of independent boutiques, food shops and restaurants. Plus you have the Old Spitalfields Market right next door. The Traders Market has up to 110 stalls on its busiest days. Held under the cover of Foster & Partners elegant glass canopy in Crispin Place, Spitalfields Traders Market is weatherproof and wheelchair and pushchair accessible. Five minutes walk from Liverpool Street Station.
Tuesday-Friday:10am-4pm Sunday: 9am-5pm
Columbia Road Flower Market www.columbiaroad.info
Green-fingered shoppers are spoilt for choice at the Columbia Road Flower Market in London’s East End. Every Sunday morning, lively traders fill the narrow Victorian street with their colourful plants and flowers. Visit at around 1pm for the best bargains. Columbia Road, London E2 7NN (Tube: Old Street or Bethnal Green).
Sunday: 8am-2pm
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Portobello Market (see Antiques)
Maidenhead High Street shopping and Mall shops.
Marlow A charming town on the River Thames. Shopping on and around the High Street.
Reading www.theoracle.com The Oracle Mall (indoor mall) has many restaurants, including a Chilli’s, and a large cinema. (21 miles from ACS).
Slough Queensmere Shopping Centre – many shops and department stores. You will also find many fabulous Indian fabric shops.
Staines Two Rivers Retail Park, Elmsleigh Centre and along the High Street (3.3 miles from ACS).
Sunninghill High Street shopping; clothing, hair salons, dry cleaners, restaurants/cafes, ironmonger (hardware store), gift shops, craft shop, pharmacy and more.
Sunningdale Butchers, gift shop, charity, farrow and ball, estate agents, restaurants, Waitrose, newsagents and more.
Taplow Bishop Centre between Slough and Maidenhead just off the A4. Variety of shops including crafts, DIY, Partyland, music, furniture showrooms and more.
Windsor Many shops along the pedestrian walk around Peascod Street. 6 miles from ACS.
Woking www.peacocks-centre.co.uk
The Peacocks Centre (indoor mall) with many shops and a food court. Woking also has a small High Street. (9.5 miles from ACS).
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Butchers
C.E. Lewis 43 High Street, Ascot SL5 7HG 01344 620 481
John Wells 12A Bishopsmead Parade, East Horsley KT24 6RT 01483 282 524
American butcher, delivers and does catering.
Lewis of Sunningdale www.lewismeat.com 53 Chobham Road, Sunningdale SL5 0DT 01344 620 141
Delivers.
Natural Meats www.natural-meats.co.uk 16 Station Parade, Virginia Water GU25 4AE 01344 841 741
Windsor Farm Shop www.windsorfarmshop.co.uk Datchet Road, Old Windsor SL4 2RQ 01753 623 800
Camping/skiing/hiking stores
Cotswold Outdoor www.cotswoldoutdoor.com Locations in Guildford, Kingston-Upon-Thames, Reading, Windsor and London.
Field & Trek www.fieldandtrek.com 202 High Street, Guildford GU1 3HZ 0844 332 5891
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Millets www.millets.co.uk Staines: 111A High Street, TW18 4PQ, 01784 469 820 Woking: 27 Commercial Road, GU21 6XR, 01483 721 551 Windsor: 42 Peascod Street, SL4 1DE, 01753 620 405
Snow & Rock www.snowandrock.com 99 Fordwater Road, Chertsey, Surrey KT16 8HH 01932 566 886
Children’s clothing
www.gap.co.uk www.next.co.uk www.hm.com/gb www.monsoon.co.uk www.polarnopyret.co.uk www.boden.co.uk www.zara.com
Children’s toys
Early Learning Centre www.earlylearningcentre.co.uk
The Entertainer www.theentertainer.com
Toys ‘R’ Us www.toysrus.co.uk
Craft shops
Brackendale Arts 1 Sparvell Way, Camberley GU15 3SF (in alley between Argos & Boots by the mall) 01276 681 344
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Creative World www.creativeworld.co.uk The Bishops Centre, Bath Road, Taplow SL6 0NX 01628 665 422
Dome Art & Craft Supplies Pannells Court. Guildford GU1 4EU 01483 536 000
Hobbycraft www.hobbycraft.co.uk Woking: Lion Retail Park, 151 Oriental Road, Surrey GU22 8BD, 0845 051 6556 Staines: Unit S2, Two Rivers Retail Park, TW18 4BW, 0845 051 6582
SuperLoop Crafts & Gifts 23 High Street, Staines TW18 4QY 01784 449 933
Do It Yourself (DIY)
B&Q www.diy.com
Homebase www.homebase.co.uk
Wickes www.wickes.co.uk
Electrical appliance stores
Robert Dyas www.robertdyas.co.uk
Argos www.argos.co.uk Bracknell: 20 Princess Square Shopping Centre, RG12 1LS Camberley: 42-46 Obelisk Way, GU15 3SG Staines: 1-2 Friends Walk, TW18 4PG
Catalogue store – easiest to shop online.
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Bracknell Refrigeration Services www.bracknell-refrigeration.com Bridge Works, Bridge Road, Sunningdale SL5 9NL 01344 621 400
They can order transformers for 110V appliances, if needed.
Chapmans Ironmongers & Hardware www.chapmansironmongers.co.uk 56 High Street, Sunninghill SL5 9NF
01344 622 792
Currys www.currys.co.uk Bracknell: The Peel Centre, Skimped Hill Lane, RG12 1EN Staines: Two Rivers Retail Park, TW18 4WA Woking: Unit 5 Lion Retail Park, Oriental Road, GU22 8BD
Fabrics and haberdasheries
C & H The Fabric Warehouse www.fabricwarehouse.co.uk 10A Church Street, Weybridge, KT13 8DX 01932 828 684
Joel & Son Fabrics www.joelandsonfabrics.com London NW8 8EU
Tatters www.tatters-haberdashery.co.uk 106 High Street, Staines TW18 01784 464 556
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Farmer’s markets
The following websites provide listings of farmer’s markets in your area, just enter your postcode:
www.farmshop.uk.com www.localfoods.org.uk/home
Farm shops
The Farm Shop www.thefarmshopuk.com Hardwick Lane, Lyne, KT16 0AA 01932 564 930
Sells fresh produce and has a florist.
Windsor Farm Shop www.windsorfarmshop.co.uk Datchet Road, Old Windsor SL4 2RQ 01753 623 800
Garson’s Farm www.garsons.co.uk Winterdown Road, Esher KT10 8LS 01372 460 181
They have a farm shop, café and allow you to pick-your-own produce in season.
Garden centres/BBQ shops
BBQ Shop www.thebbqshop.co.uk Located in Hillier Garden Centre, London Road (A30), Windlesham GU20 6LQ 01344 873 673
Hillier Garden Centre www.hillier.co.uk London Road (A30), Windlesham GU20 6LQ 01344 623 166
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Longacres Garden Centre www.longacres.co.uk London Road, Bagshot GU19 5JB 01276 476 778
Flowers, garden supplies, Christmas trees, cards, gifts, toys, clothing, coffee shop, etc.
Notcutts Garden Centre www.notcutts.co.uk Bagshot: London Road (A30), GU19 5DG Staines: Staines Road, TW18 2SF Flowers, garden supplies, decorations, playground toys, pet shop, small cafeteria.
Wyevale Garden Centre www.thegardencentregroup.co.uk London Road, Windlesham GU20 6LL 01344 625 789
Gifts
House portraits – Our English Home [email protected] 07894 342 698
Keep your family’s memories of their time in England alive with a lovely painting of the home you have here. They also make wonderful presents for friends who are about to return home. Visit Lise’s website to see some of the homes she has painted recently. You’ll also see her paintings of some ACS buildings.
Grocery stores
Please note that in the UK you pack your own groceries in some stores and you are encouraged to bring your own bags. All stores charge £.05 for a bag, even retail stores. You will need a £1 coin deposit to use a shopping trolley at some stores. If you have a Maestro (Switch) or Solo card (debit card from a local bank), you can get up to £50 cash back at grocery stores. Most stores close at 4:00pm on Sundays. Many stores offer online shopping and a 7-day delivery service, please check their websites for specific details.
Shopping
Budgens www.budgens.com Ascot: The Hermitage, High Street SL5 7HD Mon-Sat 7am-9pm Sun 10am-4pm
Virginia Water: 8 Station Approach GU25 4DL Mon-Sat 7am-9pm Sun 8am-8pm
Sainsbury’s www.sainsburys.co.uk Bracknell: Bagshot Road (A322) RG12 7SS Mon-Sat 7am-10pm Sun 10am-4pm
Camberley: 7 Heather Ridge, Arcade GU15 1AX Mon-Fri 7am-11pm Sat 7am-10pm Sun 10am-4pm
Staines: The Causeway, TW18 3AP Mon-Fri 7am-11pm Sat 7am-10pm Sun 10am-4pm
NOTE: There is a Starbucks next to the Sainsbury’s in Bracknell.
Tesco www.tesco.com Ascot: High Street, SL5 7HP Mon-Sun 6am-11pm
Bracknell: Whitton Road, Martin’s Heron RG12 9TZ Mon 8am-10pm Tue-Sat 7am-10pm Sun 10am-4pm
Egham: 60 High Street, TW20 9EX Mon-Sat 7:30am-10pm Sun 11am-5pm
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Windsor: Dedworth Road, SL4 4JT Mon-Thu 9am-8pm Fri 9am-9pm Sat 9am-8pm Sun 10am-4pm
Waitrose www.waitrose.com
Bagshot: London Road, Bagshot, GU19 5DG Sat 8am-8pm Sun 11am-5pm
Egham: Church Road, Egham, TW20 9HZ Sat 8am-8pm Sun 11am-5pm
Staines: Two Rivers Retail Park, Mustard Mill Road TW18 4WB Mon-Fri 8am-9pm Sat 8am-8pm Sun 11am-5pm
Sunningdale: London Road SL5 0HD Mon-Fri 8am-9pm Sat 8am-8pm Sun 10am-4pm
Windsor: King Edward Court SL4 1TG Mon-Fri 8am-9pm Sat 8am-8pm Sun 11am-5pm
Ocado www.ocado.com
Costco (membership required to shop here) www.costco.co.uk Reading: 100 South Oakway Green Park, RG2 6UE Farnborough: 2 Templer Avenue, Hampshire, GU14 6FE
Please check website for membership rules.
Shopping
Specialty food
Garsons Farm Shop www.garsons.co.uk Esher 01372 460181
Abel and Cole www.abelandcole.co.uk 08452 626262
Online ordering and delivery of organic produce, dairy items and meat along with wine/spirits and all natural household products.
Cybercandy www.cybercandy.co.uk Covent Garden & Brighton 0845 838 0958
Multicultural food and candy products from different countries.
Dairy Crest www.dairycrest.co.uk 0845 606 3606
Home delivery of milk and other dairy products. NOTE: In England, milk is not fortified with vitamin D, which aids in the absorption of calcium.
Goodness Direct www.goodnessdirect.co.uk 0871 871 6611
Online fresh, eco and organic shopping (groceries and other household products). Free delivery with purchases over £35.
Riverford Farms www.riverford.co.uk 01803 227 227
Organic home delivery.
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American
SKYCO www.skyco.uk.com
Specialises in delivering American products.
Please note that the butcher in Virginia Water (Natural Meats) also stocks a small selection of American branded products as well as Budgens in Ascot and Longacres.
American Sweets www.americansweets.co.uk
It is much more than sweets! Store sells healthy cereals, barbecue sauce, salad dressing, cooking ingredients, Wheat Thins, and many more American food staples. Usually minimal to free delivery charge depending on how much you order.
East Asian
Wing Yip www.wingyip.com London: 395 Edgware Road NW2 6LN Croydon: 544 Purley Way CR0 4NZ
Indian
Rayat Superstore 74-76 Vicarage Farm Road, Hounslow, Middlesex TW5 0AB (about 9 miles from ACS) 02085 707 288
Southall is a town in the council of Ealing that has many Indian shops and restaurants. It is about 12 miles from ACS.
Italian
Italian Continental Stores www.italiancont.co.uk 40 Vicarage Road, Maidenhead SL6 7DS
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German
The German Bakery www.thegermanbakery.co.uk 11 St Leonards Way, Windsor, Berks SL4 3BN 01753 840 833
Japanese
Atariya www.atariya.co.uk 7 Station Parade, Noel Road, West Acton, London W3 0DS 020 8896 1552
Natural Natural www.natural-natural.co.uk 1 Goldhurst Terrace, London NW6 3HX
Mexican
El Azteca Food www.elaztecafoods.com 164 Victoria Village Shopping Centre, Victoria Street, London S1E 5LB 02078 284 937
Wahaca www.wahaca.co.uk/locations
Mexican food and catering services.
Swedish
Scandelicious www.boroughmarket.org.uk Borough Market, 8 Southwark Street, London SE1 1TL
Scandelicious has a stall at Borough Market where they sell freshly prepared Scandinavian dishes on Fridays and Saturdays.
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Home furnishings
IKEA www.ikea.com 2 Drury Way, North Circular Road, London NW10 0TH 020 3645 0000
NEW IKEA OPENING READING SUMMER 2016 Reading Pincents Lane, Calcot, Reading RG31 7SG 020 3645 0000
Huge home furnishing store at reasonable prices (about 20 miles from ACS).
John Lewis www.johnlewis.com High Wycombe 0844 693 1742
Can be delivered to Ascot Waitrose if you select click and collect option!
Newspaper delivery
Martin McColl Newsagents www.martinmccoll.co.uk 01277 376 374
Paper goods/stationery
Not on The High Street www.notonthehighstreet.com
Paper goods and stationery as well as stylish and contemporary speciality gifts and personalised items.
Paperchase www.paperchase.co.uk
Multiple locations, cards, pens, wrapping paper, ribbons.
Shopping
Smythson of Bond Street www.smythson.com
London’s finest personal stationery, diaries, desk accessories.
WH Smith www.whsmith.co.uk
Able Direct www.able-labels.co.uk
Personalised stationery and return address stickers by mail order.
Wren Press www.wrenpress.co.uk
Fine engraving of letterheads to invitations.
Picture framing
Frame Workshop 12C Charter Place, High Street, Egham TW20 9EA 01784 437 200
Raffles Fine Art 40/42 High Street, Sunninghill SL5 9NF
Circle Gallery Ltd 6 High Street, Sunninghill SL5 9NE
Studio Frames Whitesands, Long Hill Road, Ascot SL5 8RE
www.eframe.co.uk Online DIY framing site. Custom made frames delivered to your door to your design specifications.
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School supplies
Staples www.staples.co.uk
WH Smith www.whsmith.co.uk
ACS Egham Jag Shop
Eton Stationers www.etonstationers.com 137 High St. Eton SL4 6AR 01753 864 074
Ryman Stationer www.ryman.co.uk Staines: 52 High Street TW18 4DY Windsor: 107 Peascod Street SL4 1DN
Sheet music and instruments
ABC Music www.abcmusic.co.uk 01372 466 195
Britten’s Music www.brittensmusic.co.uk 3-4 Station Approach, West Byfleet KT14 6NG 01892 526 659
Music Box www.musicbox.uk.com 120-125 Peascod Street, Windsor SL4 1DP 01753 801 021
Shopping
Sporting goods/apparel
JD Sports www.jdsports.co.uk
Sweaty Betty (Women’s work out clothing) www.sweatybetty.com
Sports Direct www.sportsdirect.com
Cliff Roe Sports www.cliffroesports.com
Locations in Ascot on the High Street and inside Daniel’s in Windsor.
The Sweatshop (Running) www.sweatshop.co.uk
Locations in Woking and Windsor.
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Driving
• Driving your car in the UK can be quite challenging. Purchase the Highway Code (details all the rules and regulations of driving in the UK) or access it online via www.direct.gov.uk under ‘travel and transport.’ You can also get Know Your Traffic Signs from your local newsagent or the AA.
• Purchase an A-to-Z Street Directory of your area at a local bookstore or newsagent.
• Beware of the traffic cameras! There are lots of speeding cameras installed and violations are recorded on your licence. If you get too many points, you could lose your licence.
• Helpful websites for driving and directions: www.maps.google.co.uk www.bing.com/maps www.theaa.com www.highways.gov.uk (info about roadworks and motorways)
• GPS/Navigation Systems are very helpful when driving in the UK. If your car doesn’t come equipped with one, you may want to consider buying a portable device.
To drive your own car in the UK, you will need the following:
• Valid driving license.
• Automobile insurance.
• Registration.
• MOT. The purpose of the MOT is to ensure that your car complies with key roadworthiness and environmental requirements. Once a car is three years old, it must have an MOT every year. Many garages do MOT testing which takes about an hour; look for one with an MOT sign.
• Vehicle tax – all cars in the UK must have vehicle tax. www.gov.uk/vehicle-tax
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General driving tips
• Even if you don’t need to take the tests in order to get a UK Driving License, it is a good idea to purchase and study the Official Highway Code (www.gov.uk/browse/driving/highway-code) along with a Know Your Traffic Signs (www.gov.uk/government/publications/know-your-traffic-signs) or you can purchase printed copies of both from a bookstore or newsagent.
• Beware of the traffic cameras! They love to catch speeders, and if you get too many points, you could lose your license.
• www.highways.gov.uk is a great site for info about road works and motorways, including up-to-date traffic information.
Driving licence
The body that regulates matters related to obtaining your licence, registering or transferring your car is the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) at www.dvla.gov.uk. For more general information: www.gov.uk/browse/driving.
By law, you must get a licence within 12 months of your arrival.
• If you have a US licence, you will need to take both the written theory test and a road test to obtain a UK licence.
• When you come to live in the UK you can use your US licence or a US International Driving Permit (IDP) for one year, starting ‘on the date you arrived with the intention of taking up residency.’ After one year, you are driving illegally, and your Motor Insurance may declare your coverage void.
• Commonwealth countries can exchange their driver’s licence for a UK licence without doing a test in the first two years of residency in the UK.
• European Community (EC) and European Economic Area (EEA) licences are valid with the option to exchange them for a UK licence. Obtain a Driver Vehicle and Licensing Agency (DVLA) form reference D100 from a Post Office for more specific information.
• PLEASE CONSULT THE DVLA WEBSITE FOR UP-TO-DATE AND EXTENSIVE INFORMATION MEETING YOUR SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS.
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The process of getting a UK licence takes 3-6 months:
• Apply for a UK Provisional Licence (applications can be obtained from any post office). The process takes 10-14 days and you must provide a passport with your application as proof of identity, so planning ahead around travel schedules is important.
• Book a Theory Test appointment once you receive your Provisional Licence. (0300 200 1122 or at www.direct.gov.uk/motoring). The Theory Test is a computerised ’touch-screen’ test, where the minimum pass mark is 43 correct answers out of 50 questions, plus a Hazard Perception Test, which monitors your reactions to video footage of developing hazards. To prepare for the test you should get an up to date Highway Code, a book with current DSA Theory Test Question Bank and a CD-ROM simulating the Hazard Perception Test. Buy these in most bookshops or borrow them from a friend. The website noted above also offers an interactive mock test. This is very helpful to get familiar with the test questions and format.
• Book a Practical (Road) Test appointment after passing Theory Test (same contact details as above). This driving test is taken with a DSA Observer who scores your performance while driving on local streets and executing basic manoeuvres. The test is about 40 minutes and includes driving through typical roundabouts, pedestrian crossings, etc. You will be asked to perform two of three basic manoeuvres: a reverse turn, a reverse turn around a corner, and parallel park (reverse parking) behind a car, but not between two cars. It will include a simple vision test, car safety/maintenance checks and may include an emergency stop manoeuvre. Driving lessons from a licenced instructor are strongly recommended to help prepare for the driving test. Instructors teach UK driving rules and coach on how to pass the actual test.
Driving instructors
Anne Lenton (used by several ACS Egham families) www.passing.biz [email protected] 01784 469 139 and 07940 776 277
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AA (Automobile Association) Driving School www.theaa.com 0330 100 7470
BSM (British School of Motoring) www.bsm.co.uk 0330 100 7500
International Drivers Service www.internationaldriversservice.com 020 8570 9190
Focuses on the expat community.
Elmbridge Driving School www.elmbridgeautomatic.co.uk 020 8224 9911
Auto insurance
Insurance Comparison Sites:
Service Insurance Bureau (SIB) www.serviceinsurance.co.uk 01252 329 772
Free advice and insurance comparisons from independent intermediaries authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.
There are also websites that provide insurance comparisons and quotes:
www.gocompare.com www.confused.com
Geico www.geico.com/information/aboutinsurance/overseas
Geico International has locations in UK, but will only insure with a US licence and the intention to return to the US.
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Breakdown insurance
AA (Automobile Association) www.theaa.com 0800 316 2456
RAC (Royal Automobile Club) www.rac.co.uk 0330 159 1111
Car servicing/repairs
National Vehicle Servicing www.nationalvehicleservicing.com 0870 850 6651
They will come to your house to service your car.
Kwik-Fit www.kwik-fit.com 0800 222 111
Camberley: 570 London Road GU15 3UF, 01276 675 432 Staines: 51-53 The Causeway, TW18 3AX, 01784 459 152
They are experts in automotive parts repair and replacement including tyres, exhausts, brakes and MOT testing. Several locations in the area, including (check website for local stores).
Halfords www.halfords.com
A retail store selling automotive supplies, including bulbs, batteries, tools, sat navs and car seats. They will do simple repairs and MOTs. Check the website for locations near you.
Staines: Unit 2, The Causeway TW18 3AP, 01784 490 068
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Parking
Sunningdale There are free car parks in Sunningdale (near the intersection of the A30 and Chobham road), behind Sunninghill High Street, and Ascot High Street. Follow the blue signs. They also have recycling bins in these car parks. Payment at these car parks is being discussed by the council so be prepared to pay.
Many car parks use the Pay & Display system to pay for parking. Drive into the car park, park your car and then go to the Pay & Display machine. Pay for the amount of time that you think you’ll be staying, and then put the sticker on the driver’s window (on the inside) or on the dashboard. Parking violations are monitored carefully so make sure the parking time is not exceeded, even in store parking garages when the free time is limited. In many locations you can pay the charge over the phone or by an app by providing your plate number and location. Instructions can be lengthy, but once signed up, repeat parking is easier.
Always have change available for parking.
Parking on the side of the road is allowed at certain times on a SINGLE YELLOW line and never on a DOUBLE YELLOW line. The rules vary from borough to borough, but generally parking is free on a single yellow line after 6:30pm and on Sundays.
London Congestion Charge
Transport for London imposes a charge per weekday on most vehicles being used in Central London. You pay for the charge for the day and can drive within the charging zone as often as you want within that day. Details, maps and charging zones can be found on:
www.tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/congestion-charge
How does it work? If your journey takes you into the charging zone (signed with a large letter “C” in a red circle) you can either pay in advance, pay before midnight that day, or, for a small surcharge, pay before midnight the following charging day. Map of charging zone: content.tfl.gov.uk/congestion-charge-zone-map.pdf
Zone operates: 7:00am to 6:00pm weekdays excluding bank and public holidays
Pay online: www.tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/congestion-charge
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A network of cameras reads vehicle number plates as you enter, drive around and leave the zone. Any vehicle recorded as having been in the zone during charging hours but where no daily charge has been paid by midnight the following charging day must pay a penalty charge.
Tips for driving on the European continent
If you are going to drive on the Continent, get full coverage (UK plus continent) when purchasing car insurance and include breakdown coverage. It is less expensive for the whole year than buying it a week at a time.
Visit www.theaa.com to learn the rules for each country. Most of the items listed below are required for each country and can be purchased at the Euro Tunnel shop or at Halfords.
• GB sticker on the rear of the vehicle if you do not have “GB” on your registration (license) plate.
• Headlight beam adjustments for driving on the right.
• Warning triangle and fire extinguisher.
• First aid kit.
• Spare bulbs (all lights must be in working order).
Eurotunnel www.eurotunnel.com 08443 35 35 35 – Reservations and ticket information.
Vehicle passage from the UK (Folkestone) into France (Calais).
Airports
Check for flight arrival and departure information:
www.gatwickairport.com www.heathrowairport.com www.southamptonairport.com www.stanstedairport.com www.london-luton.co.uk www.londoncityairport.com
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Airport parking
APH parking www.aph.com 01342 859 442
They will provide several quotes including a ‘Meet and Greet’ service which will valet park your car for you.
Flypark www.flypark.co.uk 0871 360 2443
Public transport
The network of trains and buses is extensive and gets you safely and reliably to most destinations. Some bus lines within Surrey run throughout the night. It is helpful to have a tube map at hand and you can use the journey planner feature on the ‘Transport for London’ website:
www.tfl.gov.uk
The Tube has an app for smart phones that will provide live schedule information and journey planning.
The best way to pay for your journey is with the Oyster Card, which is a pre-paid card that can be purchased at most Kiosks that display the ‘Oyster’ sign. There is a £5 deposit and the card can be ‘filled’ with funds to use on future travel. The card gets swiped at the various entry and exit barriers and funds automatically deducted. Information on the Oyster card and online ordering can be found online at:
https://oyster.tfl.gov.uk
Most bus and tram travel is free for children under 16 and at a reduced rate for students up to 18; their Oyster card needs to be signed by the school and students will need to carry a photo ID. More information on the various types of Oyster cards can be found at the web address above.
From most Surrey destinations, Southwest Trains runs a service into London Waterloo, with stops at other Central London stations. Oyster cards can be used on most services, but need to have sufficient funds to be valid for the whole journey. Note that you can take a bike onto the trains outside of commuting hours.
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Schedules and fares can be found at:
www.southwesttrains.co.uk
Biking in Central London A major bike rental scheme has been established under the name ‘Santander Cycles’. Many pick-up and drop-off locations (docking stations) allow for easy commute and are a fun alternative to driving or public transport. The scheme has been highly successful, particularly in congested areas. The scheme is operated by ‘Transport for London’ and all information can be found at:
www.tfl.gov.uk/modes/cycling
Rail Services General Information:
• A one-way ticket is called a single journey.
• A round trip ticket is called a return ticket.
When going into London, you can buy a day travelcard which you can use on the train, the underground, and buses for the day. Tickets are much cheaper if you arrive in London after 10:00am and leave after 7:00pm.
• This journey planner website is great for when you want to include train stations and underground stops: journeyplanner.tfl.gov.uk
National Rail www.nationalrail.co.uk
The UK’s domestic rail network
Eurostar www.eurostar.com
Eurostar a service from St. Pancras or Ebbsfleet (in Kent) to the Continent (that’s what the British call Europe). The most popular destinations are Paris and Brussels, but there are many new services and new ones are constantly being added.
Southwest Trains www.southwesttrains.co.uk
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The local rail service from most Surrey destinations into London Waterloo. You can take a bike onto the trains outside of commuting hours.
Family and Friends Railcard www.familyandfriends-railcard.co.uk
Riding the rails across Britain can be even more economical with the annual Family and Friends Railcard. It can save a family up to one-third off adult fares and 60 percent off child fares. Anyone travelling with a child who is between five and 15 years old is eligible. There are some savings restrictions during peak train travel times.
Network Rail Card www.network-railcard.co.uk
A Network Railcard gives you one third off most rail fares for journeys in the Network Railcard area and can also save you money on trips to and around London. The Network Railcard costs £30 (in 2016) and is valid for 12 months.
Car rentals
Be sure to specify an automatic transmission car if that’s what you prefer and book well in advance for large cars. The usual international car rental services are available at airports and city centre locations. Some smaller local services offer good value.
Zipcar www.zipcar.co.uk
For short-term rental needs, such as shopping or airport trips, you may be able to use Zipcar.
Penny Car Hire – a local car hire company www.pennycarhire.co.uk 01344 843 050 Virginia Water Railway Station, GU25 4AA
Taxis/private car services
Ascot Cars – located beside the Ascot railway station www.ascot-cars.com 01344 297 297
Paul Fewell – Private taxi hire (Sunningdale) 07711 004 584
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Gemini Cabs (Egham) www.geminicars.co.uk 01784 471 111
Just Airport Transfers www.justairporttransfers.com 0330 1233005
Sterling Cars - Female staff (Bagshot) 01276 474 946
Virginia Water Car Services www.virginiawatercars.co.uk
Uber is available in some areas such as London and Windsor.
In the London area there are “black cabs” which are licensed taxis and “minicabs” which are private hire taxis that may or may not be licensed. Check www.tfl.gov.uk for listings of all licensed taxis.
Black cabs may be hailed on the street or picked up at taxi ranks. They will have a meter showing the fare. While they will typically be more expensive than minicabs, they are carefully monitored for safe and knowledgeable drivers.
Minicabs must be booked in advance or in person at their place of business. They do not have meters, so the fare should be agreed upon in advance. If a minicab driver approaches you on the street, do not take the ride. It may well be an unlicensed cab and may be unsafe. The CABWISE text message campaign provides a safe way to find a taxi anywhere. By texting “home” to 60835, you will receive a text reply with the numbers of one taxi and two local licensed minicab companies.
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Source: www.tvawc.com
How to survive
cultureshock
“I didn’t expect it to be SO different.”
“The kids are homesick.”
Culture Shock
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How to survive culture shock
One website with great articles on this topic is www.expatexpert.com. It is the home of Robin Pascoe, a wonderful writer and speaker on expat joys and challenges. Read her books or hear her speak if you have the opportunity.
Culture shock and its stages Culture shock is a label for the disorientation and related feelings of anxiety and stress an individual experiences when moving from one culture to another. It has become an important area of study as society becomes increasingly globally mobile. Those who move from culture to culture will feel some degree of culture shock. Therefore, it is important to understand its dynamics in order to best support yourself and your family towards successful adjustment to your new environment.
What are the stages, or symptoms, of culture shock? What does culture shock look like? Symptoms fall into four general categories:
Stage one, often called the honeymoon stage, is marked by excited anticipation. During this stage, you experience pleasant symptoms of excitement at being in a new place with interesting and new things to do and see. Some people never progress past this initial stage of exhilaration in being abroad. These people spend their entire stay in a state of mild euphoria, behaving like permanent tourists: travelling to new and wonderful places, forming friendships exclusively with other expatriates, and maintaining their old lifestyle. For most, however, the honeymoon period passes and they move on to the second and most problematic stage of culture shock.
Stage two is marked by discouragement, doubt, apathy, and a generally negative attitude toward England. Your conversations during this stage tend to concentrate on the things you can’t buy, the things you have to do without, and all the things the British do “wrong” (which means “differently”). This can be thought of as the flight stage because one often thinks about leaving England during this time.
Stage three is a stage of immersion. With perseverance, you will arrive at it often by the end of the first year. You are now learning the cues of English culture and seldom experience that old sense of disorientation. You have met and socialised with English neighbours or co-workers, might have taken a course in English history, and discover British vocabulary and pronunciation creeping into your speech. You are becoming immersed in the English way of life, rather than standing on the outside, critically looking in.
The fourth and final stage of cultural adjustment is marked by full participation in the English way of life. Now you rarely find yourself thinking in categories of “them” and
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“us”. This is the final stage of adjustment. You are now functionally and emotionally adjusted to life in England and are living with the ease you experienced before the move.
Treatment The treatment of culture shock applies to two stages – the flight stage, which is the most uncomfortable part of adjustment. The coping behaviours you choose during this period may determine the tone of the rest of your stay in England.
Crisis experts say that an individual undergoing stress following a change, such as a move to another culture, will seek to resolve their state of unbalance within a four to six week period – the average length of time one will tolerate this anxiety. It is not uncommon for people to react with negative coping behaviours that do not serve them well in the long run. Examples would be social withdrawal, chronic complaining, or even alcoholism. It is therefore critical to take inventory of your consciously or unconsciously chosen coping mechanisms and select those that promote a positive, long-term lifestyle.
One of the first and easiest steps in the treatment of culture shock can begin before you arrive, but certainly any time subsequently. Get as much information as you can about England, its customs, history, climate, and so on. Also, acquire basic information before you need it: contact a doctor and dentist before the need arises; familiarise yourself with emergency medical procedures; plan the steps to take if your car breaks down; learn about public transportation, This step is called “doing your homework”. By doing homework on England in general and preparing for specific family emergencies, you begin to build basic confidence in your ability to function here.
Secondly, try to fend off feelings of depression by taking concrete measures to adapt. For example, familiarise yourself with your surroundings. Keep your explorations local and leave the rest of London and England until later. Buy maps of your locality and trace some of the routes on foot; read local newspapers, clip addresses, file some away, and visit others. Familiarise yourself with your surroundings in an emotional sense too. Chat with a local shopkeeper; have a cup of tea at the local coffee shop to do some subtle people watching; become a regular reader of the notice board at your local library and join one of the activities listed there. This goes beyond the intellectual task of “homework” and requires “doing”, which further builds up your self-image as one who competently negotiates British daily life. Local explorations can also be made into fun outings for the family to enjoy.
Another way to get the better of “down” feelings is to establish a goal and take steps to achieve it. Have you ever wanted to study art, learn a second language, develop a green thumb, hike regularly in the countryside, and collect antiques? A constructive activity is like a reward for more frustrating aspects of cultural adjustment.
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Eventually, you will develop a workable philosophy about your stay in England. Hopefully it will include enthusiasm (“It’s a wonderful country and I’m lucky to be here.”) and opportunism (“I’m going to take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime chance!”). You want to do more than survive – you can choose to thrive!
Family culture shock Moving away from home, familiar surroundings, and the support network of family and friends puts the entire family into a state of imbalance. The roles in a marriage often change, especially if one spouse leaves work to follow another’s career advancement. There is often realignment on parental responsibilities as well, which may initially result in feelings of resentment or anger.
It is especially important during this first year to practice open and on-going communication between all family members. It is important, also, that children be allowed to talk about uncomfortable emotions such as anger, frustration, and resentment, to minimise any inappropriate acting out and displacement of these feelings outside of the home.
Children Children live in the here and now. Until about age 12 children aren’t able to “distance” themselves from their environment as adults can. Children need to appreciate and like their environment for healthy self-development. Therefore, try not to share with them your negative reactions to the new culture. This will only serve to alienate children in the sole world they feel they occupy; it will inhibit their unfolding self-identity that requires identifying with the culture they are in now. A child needs to love his world and himself in it during early stages of personal development.
Preschool age Be aware that although adult life includes what goes on outside the home, a preschooler’s life centres on what’s going on inside the home. S/he is very affected by a parent’s mood and the changes in behaviour of other family members. This is a good time to keep a “stiff upper lip” and contain your own depression and frustration to a time when little ones are asleep or otherwise occupied. The preschooler’s culture is in the home, where cultural cues come from YOU.
School age children/teenagers School age children often share the “honeymoon” stage with the parents but will progress to the next stage of culture shock once differences become frustrating. They too are impacted by the atmosphere at home, but less so as they live within a school environment as well.
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It is not unusual for teenagers to be initially angry about and rebel against the move. They are more rooted in life with their peers and social life in high school than their younger siblings. You may observe teenagers retreating into their rooms with headphones on as a way of withdrawing from their new environment. However, over time and with appropriate parental support, open communication, and patience, they will soon be bragging to their friends “back home” about their new life in England.
Good news and bad news The good news is that there is an end to family culture shock; the bad news is that the only way past it is to go through it. As a parent, be prepared for a tough six months. The following are suggestions for parents to help ease the way for their children.
• Practice patience, patience, and patience to listen to and communicate with children much more than before.
• Do explain culture shock and its stages to them whatever their age – adults often underestimate children’s understanding.
• Make it “safe” for your children to express their anger or other so-called negative feelings so their unhappiness won’t be displaced in inappropriate places outside the home (such as acting out in school when before your child had no history of this type of behaviour).
• Be available as much as possible at first. Be careful not to leave your children with a sitter too often until they become used to their new environment and caregivers.
• Do not deny the existence of culture shock. If you are a perfectionist whose ideal does not allow for an adjustment period, then you may set your family up for being “stuck” in a problematic stage of culture shock. Although some children seem to sail through changes, others do not, and denying their sensitivity to these changes could actually prolong the “flight” stage.
• Create as much stability as possible. Routines are important, and as soon as possible establish another family life rhythm. Again, be available to talk to your children about what’s new and different in their environment and answer any questions. Do stick with your child-rearing values and be sure to establish a foothold with them from the beginning.
• Do help your children create friendships whenever possible by organising play dates and outings that will bring children together.
• If you feel your child, children, or family are not adjusting to the new environment over a reasonable time period, do not hesitate to find professional help. There is no
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shame or stigma to seeking outside counselling; often much can be accomplished within relatively few hours with an objective, trained professional. There is no reason you have to unnecessarily experience on-going stress – seek relief! Remember the school counsellors are there to help also.
• Don’t expect yourself to be the perfect parent during this time. Do your best, remain flexible, and keep a sense of humour.
In conclusion Just remember, you will experience many ups and downs during your time here in the UK – just as you would have done wherever you lived. But by keeping an open mind and developing a willingness to see things not as “bad” or “good” but as “different” – you will find that the positive aspects of expat life can far outweigh any negatives. You will now be living in a community where everyone has been a newcomer, and they are more than willing to answer your questions, offer advice, and help you and your family settle in to your new life here. Don’t be shy about asking questions (no question is stupid or silly), or asking for help. This is the beginning of a new adventure for you and your family – and we wish you every success.
Source: www.tvawc.com
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Notes
