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Just want to thank EDF for recommending Shaun a local electrician 07974 943346 and add a plumber recommended by him John whose fixed something that baffled Pimlico plumbers - was an emergency - whose number is 07977 909339. Both were by far the most professional tradesmen I have come across, and dare I say it charge a fraction of what others charge. Going to regret this the next time I need them in a hurry, but don't want to be selfish! I have used the good the bad and the downright useless over the years, so this comes from a place of (often painful and costly) experience.

Honestly, it's much better than most places. My sister lives in France and when she comes here she cannot believe how clean the pavements and parks are. Perspective...?

Jasmine's magic parties. Ask for Jose...

My daughter is at Ducks, am very happy with it and it's a lovely setting - but she has to go in year 3 at the age of 7. The stress of getting into prep for year 3 isn't great and I am moving into Dulwich Village to get into the catchment for the Hamlet as back-up. Do what you can to get your kids into Alleyns at 4 - those are the most prized places. I don't know what they assess at four but I would make sure they know how to write their names, basic phonics and numbers to 10 I guess? Am sure someone here could tell you. When I did my research it seemed that Oakfield is not generally perceived to be as good as the schools mentioned above, but I have heard very positive reports and being a bit detached from the hothousing that goes on for 7 plus entry elsewhere might not be such a bad thing. And (just in case) don't worry about it being stuck up. Like you are working out, it's often cheaper to fork out the fees than the mortgage to get into a decent catchment. There are lots of nice, normal, hardworking parents who feel a bit forced into it all. Oh yes, register your kids now, keep your options open. Our kids are lucky to have options I guess. Good luck x

I do the school run on the pavement with my 5 year old daughter on a tag along (like a tandem) behind me. I am always really considerate and if space is tight I get off and push. It's a 2 and a half mile journey each way and no bus route- surely better for the community to cycle than drive?? If we had decent cycle routes of course I would use them be we don't. Isn't this basic common sense stuff? Stats on people hit by bikes / cars anyone? PS Thoughtness, dopey and annoying teenage boys cycling on pavements is a right of passage, it's hardly mugging old ladies.

I had two nanny experiences one good and one bad- the good one was a wonderful woman who I wasn't keen on because her English was so bad. I opted for a local woman who was a nightmare and saw some really depressing childminders/nurseries. So I hopefully can offer a rounded view! 1. Invite a few to spend a few hours with you and your child - pay them for their trouble. Look out for cuddles and responsiveness, that she talks to your baby as much as to you. Watch out for strongly held old wives tales/ opinions. I strongly recommend you interview lots of nannies - you will get better at picking up on things. Ask open questions about discipline etc (to get a sense of whether they are too harsh or not) 2. I wanted someone to take my daughter out and have a good routine, cook fesh, decent food etc - if this is important to you then get their agreement upfront and regularly monitor it. The first nanny was serving up pot noodle! 3. Lay out employment rules - holiday, sickness etc - I didn't go through the books but made fair rules around sickness etc (if they are young enough to get pregnant and you are going through the books you may end up paying maternity leave - this happens, sounds mean but not something I could have afforded) 4. Don't be afraid to change the rules if something isn't working....I waited far too long to fire the first nanny 5. ALWAYS listen to your gut instinct. Love and cuddles more important than any amount of certificates.

My daughter (now 5) was also into letters and words at that age but was at a preschool that taught them songs and actions for each one. 'a' 'a' 'ants on my arm' for the letter a etc. sure you can get these with some internet searching (youtube??) She loved it - I also let her text her dad and read road signs (STOP, P for Parking etc). cbeebies website is really good too. Also, it's not too early to get the first Orchard reading books which she loved.

I was run over (badly) 12 yrs ago and had some terrible solictors who added to the misery. At the last minute I changed to someone called Colin Ettinger who closed the deal within a month. Worth googling him- and even if it's too small for him he might be able to recommend someone good. And yes, be careful, lots of sharks out there.

Thanks everyone, I really appreciate your thoughts. Is it true there is a cycle route between Camberwell and Dulwich? Could that be an (ambitious) option?

Hi I am moving to the area with my 5yo daughter who will be attending Dulwich Ducks. I want to sanity check that Grove Park in Camberwell is a decent area/commute to Dulwich college? I can't find anywhere decent to rent in East Dulwich, have found somewhere gorgeous off Camberwell Grove but as a single parent new to the area I am a bit nervous that it's a bit isolated up there when I want to be meeting new people. A good friend of mine living in ED thinks it's too far out. (Saying that, ED is a bit couply perhaps?) Any thoughts?