“From Struggling To Thriving” Lorn’s 25kg Transformation!
The Wake-Up Call
Like many, the pandemic took a toll on her health. She became less active, felt constantly tired, and lost confidence in returning to the gym. “I easily got out of breath, and my clothes size was creeping up,” she recalls. Determined to turn things around, she signed up for a structured 12-week programme, looking for both exercise guidance and nutritional support. What started as a short-term commitment soon became part of her lifestyle.
The Results? Life-Changing
• Nearly 25kg lost since July 2023
• Fitter, stronger, and more energetic
• Knee pain from past injuries significantly reduced
• More confidence
What’s Next?
Now, she’s focused on maintaining her progress and building muscle. Seeing others train for HYROX has been inspiring maybe that’s her next challenge! Her advice? “Make yourself a priority. Start small, stay consistent, and be kind to yourself.”
Ready to Take That First Step?
Lorn proved that real, lasting change is possible. You can too!
Finding Her Strength
The first 12 weeks helped her lose 7kg, but more importantly, she built momentum. She kept going, training 3-5 times a week through personal training, group classes, and small group sessions. “The support was fantastic,” she says. “The trainers knew when to push me harder and when to adjust. They focused on form, strength, and recovery, rather than just weight loss.” She also made sustainable changes to her diet-increasing protein, drinking more water, and improving her sleep. “I still enjoy a Danish pastry or a glass of wine - I just understand balance now.”
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Welcome to SE22
As you can see from the cover, I am celebrating 20 years of SE22! I still love putting the magazine together as much now as I did back in 2005. The magazine has changed over the years, but I am delighted to see that it still has a place in the local community.
As usual I have rounded up all the great events taking place in and around Dulwich. The events pages start on page 6. March is always a busy month for events, so we have a fabulous nine pages of online and in person events happening in and around Dulwich.
Please do check any event before turning up to make sure that they are still going ahead. Remember to check out www.arounddulwich.co.uk too as many events get added after I have gone to print. You can often find out more details online too.
If you are running a local event you can add it, for free, to our online calendar on Around Dulwich. www.arounddulwich.co.uk.
The Last Word goes to Kathryn Spencer, who is the new Director of Dulwich Youth Orchestra Find out more on page 32.
Thank you to all the readers and local businesses who have supported the magazine for the past 20 years, it means a huge amount to me.
Until next time.
Angela
Angela Burgess Head of All Things Community SE Magazines/Around Dulwich
Call 020 8693 9040 angela@semagazines.co.uk www.semagazines.co.uk
@semags_arounddulwich @SEMagazines @SEMags_ADulwich
If you would like to advertise in our next issue, you can download our rates from our website any time. Or if you prefer, give me a call!
April Deadline - 14 March (please allow an extra two days if design is required)
To advertise in SE22 please contact Angela Burgess on 020 8693 9040 or e-mail: angela@semagazines.co.uk for further information. You can download our rates from our website: www.semagazines.co.uk.
Photographby Portrayed Photography
Events Calendar - March
Weekly Online Breathing Class p8.
Dulwich Park Runners see p9.
Women & Politics, see p9.
Honor Oak WI, see p18.
Goose Green Coffee Mornings, p18.
Zoom Portraiture see p18.
BNI Adventures, see p18.
Goose Green Lunch Club, p19.
Makeup Bag SOS, see p19.
Life Drawing & Painting, see p9.
Second Act: What Late Bloomers Can Tell You About Success p25.
Dulwich Park Runners see p9.
Life Drawing & Painting, see p9.
Weekly Online Breathing Class p8.
Dulwich Park Runners see p9.
Goose Green Coffee Mornings, p18.
Book Swap Social, see p26.
EDWI - International Women’s Day, p26.
Goose Green Coffee Mornings, p18.
Zoom Portraiture see p18.
BNI Adventures, see p18.
Rodin, Dante & The Gates of Hell, see p26.
BNI Adventures, see p18.
Goose Green Lunch Club, p19.
Somin Kim’s School of Kimchi, see p24.
parkruns, see p6.
Bell House Open Garden,
Life Drawing & Painting, see p9.
Weekly Online Breathing Class p8.
Dulwich Park Runners see p9.
Goose Green Coffee Mornings, p18
Under 5s Explore: Mini Masterpieces, see p27.
Zoom Portraiture see p18.
see p6. Lewisham Underwater Hockey, see p19.
Beginners Running Courses p25.
Drop Drop Slow Tears - St Stephen’s Consort, p24.
Lewisham Underwater Hockey, see p19..
see p19.
see p6.
see
parkruns, see p6.
Damien Barber & Mike Wilson, Creeping Jane, James Eagle @ The
Lewisham Underwater Hockey, see p19.
Further details where available can be found in the News and Events pages 6, 8, 9, 18, 19, 24, 25,
& 27. Please read as not all the events can fit on the calendar!
Dulwich WI, see page 26.
The Weekly Horniman Market p8.
Junior parkruns,
p8.
Junior parkruns, see p8.
Goose Green Lunch Club, p19.
Singaround, p25.
Just Up The Road Exhibition see p6.
Chaat & Chai, p25.
So Last Century’s Vintage Fair p8.
Dulwich Symphony Orchestra plays Holst/Sibelius/ Brahms, p27.
BNI Adventures, see p18.
Goose Green Lunch Club, p19.
Junior parkruns, see p8.
Ivy House, p28.
Junior parkruns, see p8.
Men Walk Talk, p6.
The Weekly Horniman Market p8.
The Weekly Horniman Market p8.
The Weekly Horniman Market p8.
Fathoms - Exhibition of Seascapes by Clare Emily, see p19. Intergenerational Art Exhibition, see p24.
Kingswood Arts Gala Fundraiser, see p27.
Craft & Sip Social, see p26.
p6.
Fathoms - Exhibition of Seascapes by Clare Emily, see p19.
Midcentury Modern® p27.
The Weekly Horniman Market p8.
Junior parkruns, see p8. Mother’s Day
From autumn 2025, parents of our Kindergarten and Pre-Reception children will have the option to join holiday provision at 99 Herne Hill for up to 7-8 weeks over the course of a year.
What's On - March
Saturday 1 March: Bell House Open Garden
11.30am-1pm. We welcome you to explore our garden in the heart of Dulwich. The extraordinary 2.5-acre site, designed and maintained entirely by volunteers, is comprised of three large gardens. Visitors will first experience the quintessential English Walled Garden, filled with raised beds brimming with organically grown fruits, vegetables and cutting flowers. Then visitors can meander through the meadow, underneath the ancient, multi-stemmed oak, into the House Garden. The nectar rich pollinator border, thoughtfully designed to accommodate a wide range of pollinators, is a riot of colour throughout the summer and interesting forms through the winter. The rear of this garden is wooded, providing a sanctuary for wildlife. Finally, visitors will find themselves in the Pickwick Garden, complete with Polytunnel and nursery area to assist us with our commitment to gardening sustainably. Throughout your visit, you can take a peaceful moment to sit and relax with a tea or coffee from our refreshment stall. To keep this event as accessible as possible, you can make a donation of an amount affordable to you. Our suggested donation is £5 per person. Your donation goes directly to garden maintenance and initiatives. www.bellhouse.co.uk.
Bell House, 27 College Road, Dulwich, SE21 7BG.
Until 2 March: Artdog London presents Just Up the Road
11am-5pm Sat & 11am-3pm Sun. Drawings of local green spaces by Michael Spencer. A percentage of all sales from this exhibition will go to support Lewisham Food Bank. www.artdoglondon.co.uk artdog gallery, 23 Brockley Rise, Honor SE23 1JG.
Saturdays 1, 8, 15 & 22
March: Parkrun 9am – 10am
Dulwich Parkrun
Free, weekly timed 5k run, jog, or walk in Dulwich Park starting from Queen Mary’s Gate. Register once and bring your printed barcode (can be used at any parkrun across the world). Firsttimers briefing at 08.50. Also in Peckham Rye, Brockwell and Crystal Palace parks. https://www.parkrun.org.uk/dulwich/
Peckham Rye Park Run
A 3-lap anti clockwise course, entirely on tarmac and is mainly flat and therefore a potential PB course The start & finish are located close to the Colyton Road entrance of the park.
Peckham Rye Park, Colyton Road SE15 4JR. https://www.parkrun.org.uk/peckhamrye/
Saturday 1 March: Men Walk Talk - Honor Oak
10am-11am. A monthly walk for men, taking in the green spaces of SE23 and surrounding area. Traditionally, men often avoid seeking mental health support, but we provide a community of support for guys to know they are not alone, and they can speak up. Join Richard for a walk and a talk on the first Saturday of every month. For more information: menwalktalk.co.uk.
76-78 Honor Oak Park, SE23 1DY
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Dulwich Youth Orchestra
Easter course at Alleyn’s School SE22 8SU
Sat 5th - Wed 9th April 2025
9am-1pm with concert at 7pm on final day
For musicians, aged 7 - 18, grade 2 - 8+.
Students are divided into ensembles:
String Ensemble Wind Band Senior Strings Symphony Orchestra
Apply now:
What's On - March
Sundays 2, 9, 16
& 23 March: Junior Parkrun
Peckham Rye - 9am - 9:30am
A free, weekly, timed run for 4–14-year-olds, to get fit, stay healthy and have fun! We run 2km every Sunday morning at 9am, through rain and shine. The course is visible, well-marshalled, and all held on the paths around the sports pitches. Peckham Rye Park, Colyton Road, SE22 0NE. www.parkrun.org.uk/peckhamrye-juniors/
Brockwell Park - 9am - 9:30am
A free 2km fun run for 4–14-year-olds every Sunday in Brockwell Park. Just register on parkrun.com to get a barcode and meet behind the lido at 8:55 for a briefing. Come rain or shine, Easter, or Christmas we meet every week. Brockwell Park, Dulwich Road SE24 0PA. www.parkrun.org.uk/brockwell-juniors/
Sundays
2, 9, 16 & 23 March:
The Weekly Horniman Market
10am – 3pm. Located on the Bandstand Terrace, you will find stalls selling seasonal fruit and vegetables, artisan bread and cheese, organic meat, and delicious street food. If that’s not enough to have you feeling like our overstuffed walrus, we also have regular guest traders specialising in treats such as luxury chocolates, delightful drinks, irresistible cakes, and tasty pickle and preserves. www.horniman.ac.uk/ 100 London Road, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ
Sunday 2 March: So Last Century's Vintage Fair, New Cross 10.30am-4pm
So Last Century is at Goldsmiths, University of London this Spring, with another vintage show in the enormous Great Hall, inside the Richard Hoggart Building. On the day you’ll find 50 handpicked vintage dealers with a great selection of affordable mid-20th century furniture, lighting, homeware, ceramics, glass, textiles and furnishings, original 1960s and 70s posters and art, prints and charts, brocante and salvage, vintage designer fashion, accessories and more. Cafe Thirty-Five will be open on site, serving hot drinks and food all day (card payments only).
Entry: Advance tickets 2-for-1 offer available for a limited period. Or pay on the door (card or cash). £3 (or £2 on the door if you follow us on Instagram , Facebook, Twitter or TikTok).
Entry for Goldsmiths’ students and staff with Uni ID is £1. Under 16s, FREE. Goldsmiths, University of London, 8 Lewisham Way, SE14 6NW. https://www.solastcenturyfair.co.uk/
Tuesdays 4, 11, 18 & 25
March: Weekly Online
Breathing Class
7pm – 7.40pm. A 40-minute breathing and relaxation class. Unwind, centre yourself and use the breath to help relax and prepare for a restful evening. Using different breathing techniques that can be incorporated into your day along with a few gentle mat-based stretches and ending with Yoga Nidra a full body guided meditation for deep relaxation. All welcome. No experience is needed. £7. To join please use the link below: https://liveyogateachers.com/classes/ meditation-open-level-kerry-flower
Tuesdays 4, 11, 18 & 25
March: Life Drawing and Painting 7pm – 8pm
This is an online drawing & painting session conducted via Zoom. Long pose life painting and drawing. A single pose held for three hours with 5-minute model breaks every 25 minutes. The Dulwich Art Group & School. www.dulwichartgroup.co.uk.
Tuesdays 4, 11, 18 & 25
March: DPR Social Runs
7:30pm – 8:30pm
Fantastic local running club. Social runs every Tuesday 7.30pm at Trevor Bailey Sports Ground on the south circular. Plus runs every Sunday morning; coached sessions on Thursdays; cross country races; competitions; weekends away; frequent social activities. Come along on a Tuesday to try us out!
www.dulwichparkrunners.co.uk enquiries@dulwichparkrunners.com
Trevor Bailey Club House Dulwich Common SE21 7HA
What's On - March
Tuesday
4 March:
Women and Politics 7.30pm-9pm
The Dulwich Society is hosting an engaging evening of thought-provoking discussion exploring politics and equality with a distinguished panel of women leaders. Our panel features a lineup of influential speakers:
Baroness Harriet Harman: Britain’s longestserving female MP and a trailblazer for women’s rights.
Baroness Caroline Pidgeon: Liberal Democrat peer and passionate advocate for gender equality in politics.
Helen Hayes: MP for Dulwich and West Norwood, known for her work on social justice and public policy.
Naima Ali: Mayor of Southwark with valuable experience in local government and community advocacy.
Resham Kotecha: of Women2Win, working to encourage more Conservative women to enter politics and make their voices heard.
The discussion will be expertly chaired by BBC News correspondent and BBC political reporter Aruna Iyengar, known for her incisive journalism and commitment to exploring issues facing women in the political sphere.
Tickets: £8 for Dulwich Society members and £13 for the public. All proceeds go to local charities. Alleyn’s School, Townley Road SE22 8SR www.dulwichsociety.com.
Dulwich Hamlet FC
dulwichhamletfc.co.uk | info@dhst.org.uk | Champion Hill Stadium, Edgar Kail Way, East Dulwich,
After an action-packed February at Champion Hill, where the home games came thick and fast, it’s time to get ready for March Madness.
But before we dive into the crucial fixtures, we’d like to send SE Magazines huge pink ‘n’ blue cheers for 20 glorious years! And a particular thank you to Angela from all at Dulwich Hamlet Supporters’ Trust. Here’s to the next 20!
They start on Saturday March 1st with the visit of Lewes to Champion Hill. With FA Cup penalty heartache against The Rooks still fresh in the memory for our women’s side, this is a chance for our men to brighten the skies and help us leap into spring.
The following week sees our men away at Hashtag United on Saturday 8th; with our women also on the road, travelling to Chesham United the following day. Back at home, Saturday 15th pits the men against Cheshunt at Champion Hill. At the time of writing both Cheshunt and Lewes are hovering not far above us, with the relegation zone not far below, so these home clashes are key. We’ll need all the support we can muster. Our men then travel south to face Dover Athletic on Saturday 22nd.
Our women’s only home game of the month – barring the Capital Cup draw – is on Sunday 23rd when we host Queens Park Rangers. Despite the big name QPR is in a similar league boat to our Hamlet, but nevertheless it would be something to send The Hoops packing. Get along to The Hill for that one.
The month signs off for our men with the visit of Dartford to Champion Hill on Saturday 29th. We’ll know more about the jeopardy of the league ladder by then, but with Dartford challenging right at the top of the table, this would be some scalp. Join us at The Hill and cheer on all the pink and all the blue.
The draws for the next rounds of the London Senior Cup and the Capital Women’s Cup may well throw us home fixtures in March, so keep an eye on the club site at dulwichhamletfc. co.uk for all the latest news.
And please join us at The Hill, in the clubhouse bar, for our next quiz night on
Wednesday 19th. Ever popular, always fun, and sometimes controversial, we’re raising funds for the big anniversary trip to Altona in Hamburg this July. Lots more on that in the next issue. As well as the quiz there’ll be a raffle with some fantastic prizes, both Dulwich- and Altona-coloured, so come along and check here for more details: https://dulwichhamletfc.co.uk/latest-news/altona-1893
As the season gets serious, please also consider joining the Dulwich Hamlet Supporters’ Trust. The Trust represents Hamlet support, unites our community, and makes its voice heard. at the heart of East Dulwich.
Happy birthday SE Mags and Up the Hamlet!
London SE22 8BD.
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Spring Bulb Container Ideas
Garden Talk with Janine Winlaw | Instagram @janinewinlaw
It may still be rather chilly, but when the sun comes out, warming your face and the sky is blue, it does feel as though spring is on the horizon. You may have been organised enough to get some early spring bulbs into the ground, but if you didn’t get round it to it, or you’re impatient for your bulbs to appear, using container plants to showcase seasonal beauties is a great way of adding a little early colour into the garden.
Terracotta, stone or zinc pots are classic. Group a few different shapes and sizes outside the front door or near a window where you can bring colour right up to the house. You could either create a mix of blooms in each pot to create or use one variety en mass in each pot for extra impact. A line of small terracotta pots along the windowsill with different shades of blue muscari looks super pretty for example.
As well as muscaria, bulbs to look out for in your local garden centre include crocus varieties,
Anemone blanda, hyacinths and lovely delicate Fritillaria meleagris. Primulas such as polyanthus and more subtle native Primula vulgaris look lovely in pots too, as well as alpines such as saxifrage to bring colour right up to the door. When it comes to design, try to harmonise colours such as pinks, purples and blues or limit yourself to three colours such as blues, purples and pops of yellow such as Narcissus ‘Tete a Tete’ for spring lift and contrast.
Foliage plants are a nice addition in container arrangements too. Ivy looks good trailing down a pot, ferns are lovely with bulbs and bergenia are useful for both foliage and flowers at this time of year. You could also add a few shrubs for structure such as camelia with their evergreen waxy leaves and flamboyant flowers in whites, pinks or reds -wonderful for pots in a sheltered, part shade position, planted in ericaceous compost. Enjoy your pot pottering!
Teaching Your Pet To Co-Operate With Procedures
Pets Corner with Leonie St Clair | www.londondogstraining.co.uk
There will come a point when you need your pet to stay still and cooperate for a procedure or inspection. This may be at the vet, to receive medication, or for grooming. Zoo personnel teach stationing behaviours to wild animals, where lions, hippos and primates learn to stay still for blood draws or teeth cleaning. If this can be taught to a wild animal, it is certainly achievable with your cat or dog. There are many ways to train this; the chinrest method below is reasonably straightforward and many pets enjoy the learning process.
Preparation
Have high value, soft treats. Identify a comfortable position and height at which your dog can easily rest their chin (place a rolled- up towel on a low stool or similar).
Chin Rest Onto Palm Of Hand
• Hold an open hand, palm up, just slightly below your dog’s nose. With your other hand hold a treat at the edge of your upturned hand, furthest from your dog’s nose. To encourage your dog to lean forward onto your palm you may have to hold the treat a little further away.
• Hold your upturned palm steady and as your dog reaches to get the treat slightly lower the treat so your dog puts their muzzle onto your palm to get nearer to the food. When you feel their chin on your palm say ‘yes’ and gently give them the treat.
• Repeat. Add a cue like ‘chin’ as your dog rests their muzzle in your palm.
• Next open your palm at chin level, give the cue ‘chin’ and see if your dog performs the muzzle rest. If they do, toggle duration with each go, first count to 1 and reward, next to 3, then to 2. Each time give a treat if your dog keeps their muzzle in place.
Move The Behaviour Onto A Towel
• You will need both hands free to deliver medications or similar. So, you want the dog to rest their chin on something and hold still.
• Try a rolled towel to pad the edge of a stool or chair. For very small dogs try a low box. Ensure the dog does not struggle or strain to rest their chin.
• Put your upturned palm onto the rolled towel.
• Give the cue ‘chin’ and wait for your dog to rest their muzzle on your palm. Toggle durations, as before, and reward each time.
• Now place your upturned palm behind the rolled towel, at the edge furthest from your dog’s nose. Repeat your cue- wait for the dog to stretch their muzzle forward across the rolled towel, to reach your palm. As their chin skims or rests on the material say ‘yes’ and reward.
• Repeat this adding duration slowly, toggling between longer and shorter. You may need to raise or lower the height of the rolled towel to make it more accessible. It will help at first to offer a treat below the level of the rolled material, to encourage the dog to lower their muzzle onto the rolled towel.
The final stages involve building duration of the chin rest and then slowly adding in ear, eye, mouth and body inspections, with appropriate implements. Use of reward is crucial each time. Be patient.
Slivers of Recovery
Fitness tips with Leanne Spencer | www.bodyshotperformance.com
What Are They? And Why Are They Good for Your Wellbeing?
When we think of the term sliver we tend to think about cake or cheese…. However, you could think of recovery in the same way. Taking a sliver of recovery is a way to balance the nervous system, take a deep breath and potentially allow your heart rate to drop slightly, all of which alleviate your perception of stress.
I’ve been introducing the term rocks and pebbles recently. Rocks are things that require concentration, attention, and time – for example introducing an exercise routine or changing your diet. Those things are important, but they can’t be done easily per se. Pebbles, on the other hand, can be done easily, and while they don’t take a lot of time, they can be very impactful. Slivers of recovery are essentially like pebbles. Think of them as short micro-breaks of just 5-10 minutes pebbled throughout the day.
Why Are Slivers of Recovery Good for You?
Short breaks, or “slivers of recovery,” have a powerful impact on reducing stress and building resilience. These micro-rests allow your nervous system to reset, switching from the “fight or flight” state (sympathetic nervous system) to the “rest and digest” state (parasympathetic nervous system). Here’s why they work:
Reduce stress: Brief moments of rest lower cortisol levels, helping to combat the harmful effects of chronic stress.
Reset your nervous system: Activating the parasympathetic nervous system improves heart rate variability (HRV), a key marker of resilience and stress recovery.
Boost focus and productivity: Slivers of recovery restore mental clarity and prevent cognitive fatigue, allowing you to perform better over time.
Promote emotional balance: Small breaks help regulate emotions by calming the mind and reducing irritability.
Support long-term resilience: Regular recovery moments build your capacity to adapt to challenges and maintain high performance.
These small, intentional pauses throughout your day are not just a luxury—they’re essential for sustaining energy and wellbeing.
Examples of Slivers of Recovery
Daydreaming out the window for a couple of minutes: Letting your mind wander allows your brain to reset, promoting relaxation and creativity. Doing two minutes of box breathing: Diaphragmatic breathing can help you regulate your nervous system, reduce anxiety, and increase oxygen flow to the brain.
Doing something meditative like a gentle walk: Gentle movement paired with mindfulness lowers cortisol levels and promotes a sense of calm.
Finding a colleague who makes you laugh and stopping for a quick chat: Laughter releases endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals, and strengthens social connections, reducing stress.
Doing a movement snack: Short bursts of movement boost blood circulation and oxygen to the brain, release tension in the body, and refresh your mind.
Going for a brisk 10-minute walk: Walking in nature or even just around the block promotes physical health, reduces mental fatigue, and enhances problem-solving.
Do some stretching at your desk: Stretching improves circulation, eases muscle tension, and activates the vagus nerve, which helps regulate stress.
Family Space
Free, creative workshops that take place on the last Saturday of the month at the South London Gallery, 6567 Peckham Road. For children aged 5-12 years old with their parents and carers. Drop-in, no need to book. www.southlondongallery.org
Little Superhero Training
Practice your Superhero moves! Discover Superhero fun facts! Any Little Heroes, Boys and Girls aged 2 - 5, Come along for a FREE taster session. Mondays & Fridays (term time only) St Barnabas Parish Hall, 23 Dulwich Village, SE21 7BT. Contact Lucy 07813 791757 | lucy@littleherocompany.com www.littleherocompany.com
Tennis-4-Kids
Learn young, have fun. Rally around for a smashing time. Serving ages 3-11. Rackets supplied; fun guaranteed. Gordon 07877 391005 | www.tennis-4-kids.com | gordonwood@hotmail.co.uk
‘Unicornios y Dinosaurios’
Fun and interactive Spanish language play classes, for children aged 0-5, and their parents and carers. Thursdays mornings (term-time only) in East Dulwich. Suitable for all levels of Spanish! Contact Hazel on 07852 553 239 or hazelcarr@ hotmail.com.
Mini Athletics (SE London)
Winning the gold medal for children’s sports classes! Start your child’s fantastic journey in athletic development, designed for toddlers up to children of 7 years old. All through a fun play-based format. To try us out, contact Sam: 07811787153 | smcdermott@miniathletics.com www.miniathletics.com
What's On - March
Tuesday 4 March: Honor Oak WI Meeting 7.30pm-9.30pm
March's meeting is a speaker from the London Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime talking about holding the Metropolitan Police to account. The Honor Oak WI is a friendly and supportive group of women of all ages, backgrounds and interests. We meet Monthly on the first Tuesday of the month. We also have book, craft clubs, gallery & museum visits and gentle local walks groups. Non-members are very welcome - we’d love to see you! Stanstead Lodge Café, Northwood Road, Forest Hill, SE23 1DD. honoroakwi@gmail.com Honoroak_WI facebook.com/groups/honoroakwi/ Stanstead Lodge Café, Northwood Road, SE23 1DD.
Wednesdays 5, 12, 19 & 26
March: Goose Green Coffee Morning 11am-12.30pm
Do drop into Goose Green Coffee Morning for a warm welcome, coffee, tea and cake! We are open every Wednesday, it's a great place to get to know others from the local community.
All welcome! Free! St John The Evangelist, East Dulwich, 62A East Dulwich Road, SE22 9AT.
Wednesdays 5, 12, 19 & 26
March: Zoom Portraiture @Dulwich Art Group & School
2pm – 5pm. Paint a clothed model with a focus on the portrait over two three-hour sessions. We give you a wide view and a closer portrait view so you can work out the framing for yourself. The model will at times be engaged in conversation in order to bring some animation to the face. ONLINE EVENT: www.dulwichartgroup.co.uk.
Thursday 6, 13, 20 & 27
March: BNI Adventures
6:30am – 8:30am. Part of the award winning multi-national networking organisation, BNI, Adventurers brings together businesses local to Dulwich with the aim of passing business and keeping money in the local community. Givers gain, and members of Adventurers have excelled at both over the last 12 months. Breakfast included. Free parking. Get referrals: boost your business! Contact Hayley 07843 989728 for information. Register at: www.eventbrite.co.uk
Dulwich & Sydenham Golf Club, Grange Lane, College Road, Dulwich, SE21 7LH.
Thursday 6 – Saturday 15
March: FATHOMS - Exhibition of Seascapes by Clare Emily
12pm onwards. An exhibition of British coastline inspired seascapes by Clare Emily. All works for sale. clareemilyart.com
OPENING HOURS: Monday & Tuesday: Closed, Wednesday & Thursday: 12-4pm, Friday: 126pm, Saturday: 10am-6pm, Sunday: 11am-4pm. STUDIO SALE: Sunday 16th March.
Jeannie Avent Gallery, 14 North Cross Road, SE22 9EU
Thursday 6, 13, 20 & 27
March: Goose Green Lunch Club 12.30pm-2pm
The lunch club is a friendly and informal club for people over 55. We meet every Thursday during term time and enjoy a delicious main course and dessert with tea and coffee for £5. If you’re interested in joining us for lunch or if you would like to volunteer with us, please call Martin on 07939 288885 or Barbara on 0208 693 2090.
Goose Green Centre, St John’s Church, 62A East Dulwich Road, East Dulwich SE22 9AT.
What's On - March
Thursday 6 March: Makeup Bag SOS 7pm-9.30pm
Discover new ways to use your current products and elevate your routine. Makeup is about having fun and not taking yourself too seriously. A lot can be achieved with only a few products! Professional makeup artist Victoria Poland invites you to bring your current makeup bag for a delightful evening in the chic West 16th studio on Half Moon Lane. We will have a look inside, tell you what to keep, what to get rid of, and what to invest in!
Your ticket includes a glass of wine and nibbles. West 16th, 137 Half Moon Lane, Herne Hill, SE24 9JY https://www.tickettailor.com/events/dulwichsocial
Fridays 7, 14, 21 & 28 March: Lewisham Underwater Hockey Club 7:30pm – 9pm
Try out underwater hockey at Forest Hill pools every Friday evening. We’re a mixed ability club who play for fun and exercise. Complete beginners welcome - we’ll ease you in gently and have kit you can borrow.
Forest Hill Pools, Dartmouth Road SE23 2HZ. For more information: www.luwhc.org.uk
You can submit your events for free via our website: www.arounddulwich.co.uk
Ripe Old Age
Practical Advice for Navigating Later Life with Michael Scott |
Confidence Tricksters: Elderly Scam Protection
Financial crime is on the rise, and advancements in AI are making these scams more sophisticated and harder to detect. Vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly, are disproportionately affected. Nearly three in five (61%) older people say that they have been the target of a financial fraud, with 17% falling victim. This growing problem calls for increased awareness, especially among older adults, who are often targeted due to their perceived vulnerability.
One shocking example reported recently, involved a French woman called Anne, who lost her life savings after being duped by scammers impersonating Brad Pitt. Using AI tools they created realistic images and messages, together with a fake video news report in which the AIgenerated anchor talked about Pitt's "exclusive relationship with one special individual... who goes by the name of Anne”. The fraudsters convinced her she was in a romantic relationship with the Hollywood star and that Pitt needed money for kidney treatment, his bank accounts being frozen due to divorce proceedings with Angelina Jolie. Ultimately, she transferred $850,000, leaving her emotionally and financially devastated.
Scammers employ psychological tactics that manipulate trust, exploiting emotions like loneliness, compassion, and fear. To gain trust and sympathy, rather than extract personal information from the victim, they confide with the person, sharing the trickster’s own made-up sob story. They skilfully present themselves as relatable, trustworthy figures. For the elderly, who may be seeking companionship or feeling isolated, these tactics can be particularly effective.
Scammers tailor their approach to suit their target’s vulnerabilities, whether through phishing emails, fake investment opportunities, or romantic frauds. They use storytelling to build plausible narratives and gain sympathy. They
rightathome.co.uk/mitcham
then use high-pressure tactics to instil urgency, preventing victims from seeking advice or reconsidering.
Elderly individuals can take specific steps to protect themselves. Awareness is the first line of defence. Questioning unexpected offers, verifying identities independently, and consulting trusted family members or professionals can help avoid falling victim to scams. Learning to recognize warning signs—such as requests for secrecy or urgent financial transfers—can also help seniors stay safe.
Family members, caregivers, and health professionals can help raise awareness about common scams and foster a culture of vigilance and support. More efforts are needed to safeguard our elderly community from financial predators and mitigate the devastating impact of these crimes.
TOP TIPS FOR THE ELDERLY
1) Never open emails or attachments from someone you don’t know.
2) Your bank will NEVER call you and ask for your PIN or for you to give your card to a courier.
3) With doorstep callers remember: Stop, Lock, Chain, Check.
4) Avoid pension scams by getting independent advice before making decisions.
5) Don’t believe letters claiming you have won a fortune. If you haven’t entered a lottery or prize draw, you can’t have won it!
6) Don’t be embarrassed to hang up, say no, or ask someone to leave.
Financial Matters
With David Frederick FCCA | Marcus Bishop Associates | marcus-bishop.com
Financial Learning
Arecent report revealed, circa 23.3m UK adults have poor financial literacy. The consequences being they were £20,000 worse off compared to adults with good financial literacy. In our fast-moving ever-changing economy this is a painful statistic.
However, a driver to reduce this position for future generations is to embrace the words of Riley B King aka B B King “the beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.'
This provides a segue into the launch of our own Dulwich Book Month (March). This would encompass and extend World Book Day on 6th March. Our local promotion of financial books could ignite the improvement of poor financial literacy. Audio books is one aid which can be used to help adults challenged by reading. A secondary driver is the birth and expansion of financial book clubs (and/or financial book groups). The sharing of the knowledge embedded in financial books at these financial book clubs would be endorsing the words of Benjamin Franklin, “an investment in knowledge pays the best interest.”
To launch our Dulwich Book Month of March to help improve financial literacy is 'Rich Dad Poor Dad' by Robert T. Kiyosaki. A tale of two fathers that challenges the conventional wisdom of education to employment. The book introduces financial learning with a collection of key takeaways, that can help underpin the financial literacy of every adult and not just the 23.3m with poor financial literacy.
The book allegedly may present an oversimplification for ease of communication. However, it is undoubtedly a good foundation for anyone; adult or minor seeking to commence their financial literacy journey.
Four of the many key take-aways for one’s financial literacy journey are as follows:
1) "The single most powerful asset we all have is our mind. If it is trained well, it can create enormous wealth." Clear recognition of the importance of financial education and continuous wealth creation education.
2) "The poor and middle-class work for money. The
rich have money work for them." The underpinning concept used to highlight the difference between active and passive income.
3) "It's not how much money you make, but how much money you keep." This highlights the difference between financial management and income generation.
4) "An asset puts money in your pocket. A liability takes money out of your pocket." The everyday practical understanding of the two concepts, assets and liabilities.
Conversely, a book to promote business financial literacy is 'Anyone Can Do It: Building Coffee Republic from Our Kitchen Table' by Sahar and Bobby Hashemi. This book provides a practical exploration of the brother and sister entrepreneurial journey from their kitchen table to maturity. The book provides a range of entrepreneurial lessons for the entrepreneurial journey. Despite the book dating back to the 1990s, it still holds invaluable lessons for entrepreneurs irrespective of the era of time.
Four key takeaways from the book for any entrepreneurial financial literacy journey are as follows:
1) "Being naive about an industry can be an advantage - you're more likely to challenge conventional wisdom." Outside the box thinking or disruptive mindset of entrepreneurship.
2) "Your business plan is never finished - it's a living document that evolves with your business." Flexibility is an integral component of business planning.
3) "The difference between success and failure often comes down to persistence rather than having the perfect idea." Entrepreneurship realism requires dogged determination.
4) "Don't be afraid to start small - even the biggest businesses started somewhere." Oak trees began as tiny acorns should not be forgotten by aspiring entrepreneurs.
The key takeaways from these two books can be our catalyst to drive the reduction of financial literacy locally and the launch of our Dulwich Book Month (March) in 2025.
What's On - March
Friday 7 – Sunday 9 March: Intergenerational
Art Exhibition
Friday 12pm-4.30pm. Sat & Sun 10am-4.30pm.
‘Intergenerational’ is the theme of the exhibition and explores the nature of time (past, present, future). It features the works of artists (ranging in age from 20-97) whose practice has been informed by family connections and shared histories. The artists, each in their own way and at different stages in their career, reflect on the cycle of life, memories and heritage.
On Saturday 8th March an all-day family and friends activity is planned. A drop-in workshop with fun and thoughtful briefs and guided activities including a chance to make a zine or family portrait will be an intergenerational event suited for all ages.
ARTISTS: Anna-Maria Amato, Beth Worth, Bethany Cox, Jo Lewis, Helen Barff, Jeremy Wyatt, Pat Cove, Sue Cox, Victoria Kitchingman, Yoke Matze, Zerrin Attakin. FREE admission, no registration required. www.bellhouse.co.uk. Bell House, 27 College Road SE21 7BG.
Friday 7 March: Somin Kim's School of Kimchi 4pm-6pm
Somin Kim is a Native Korean. She comes from a family based in Jeolla-do, the region known as the ‘hometown of taste.’
Having learned tips and secrets from the generations before her, since childhood, Somin has participated in kimjang (the practice of a whole family coming together to make kilos of kimchi). She has been an environmental activist since college and has been vegan since 2020. Since becoming vegan, she has been thinking about ways to make traditional Korean food vegan and has explored and developed many recipes. She is always working to change the world into a better place, with a healthier food culture by using the heritage of the past and grafting it onto the present for a sustainable future and future generations. Somin will share stories, not only about kimchi but also about Korea's traditional food and fermentation heritage.
Upstairs at Heritage Cheese, 1b Calton Avenue, Dulwich SE21 7DE. https://www.tickettailor.com/events/dulwichsocial
Saturday 8 March: Drop Drop Slow Tears - St Stephen's Consort 7.30pm-9.30pm
A concert for Lent: Francis Poulenc's Four Penitential Motets, and works by William Walton, Aaron Copland, Arvo Pärt, Thomas Weelkes, Gerald Finzi and others, presented by this established and accomplished a cappella group featuring young professional singers. Come and lose yourself in profound and moving music from the English and continental choral traditions. St Stephen's Church, College Road SE217HW. Tickets via Eventbrite.co.uk.
Saturday
8
March: Running Course for Beginners
8am or 9am start. The number one running course in London, if not the country. Organised by Dulwich Park Runners for the last 20 years or so, this course has introduced hundreds of people to the joys of running. Starts on Saturday, March 8th and runs for 8 weeks. Choose 8am or 9am start. Experience incredible support, receive great advice from coaches, and enjoy the motivation that the course provides.
Dulwich Park, College Road, Dulwich, SE21 7EB. www.dulwichparkrunners.co.uk.
Sunday 9 March: Singaround
7pm-10.30pm. Our Singarounds are informal and participative. We take it in turns to sing a song - any language, any genre, accompanied or unaccompanied, anything goes! We don't use the stage or mics. Singers, listeners and complete beginners welcome! £5 on the door, cash or BACS. For more information, please see our website. www.thegooseisout.com.
The Ivy House, 40 Stuart Road, Nunhead, SE15 3BE
Sunday 9 March: Chaat & Chai 3pm-5pm
Discover the art of creating traditional Indian chaat dishes, brew authentic masala tea from scratch, and immerse yourself in a cultural journey with engaging storytelling and interactive experiences. We’re Meghna and Sonam, two passionate home chefs with a shared love for Indian food and culture. Over the years, we discovered a deep love for cooking and spent countless hours perfecting traditional Indian recipes for our friends and families, and these hold a special place in our hearts.
This hands-on event offers a perfect blend of learning, tasting, and cultural immersion. Book your spot now for an unforgettable experience filled with flavour, fun, and tradition!
Please note that unfortunately this workshop is not suitable for people with allergies to nuts, dairy or gluten.
Upstairs at Heritage Cheese, 1b Calton Avenue, Dulwich, SE21 7DE. https://www.tickettailor.com/events/dulwichsocial
What's On - March
Tuesday 11 March: Second Act: What Late Bloomers Can Tell You About Success
7pm-8.30pm. Join us to hear writer and critic Henry Oliver discuss the ideas behind his latest book, ‘Second Act: What Late Bloomers Can Tell You About Success and Reinventing Your Life’
Have you ever dreamed that you might be far more successful than you are today? Our society tells us over and over that if we're going to achieve anything, we'd better do it while we're young. But whether you're at the start of your career, sensing you're on the wrong path, or feeling unsettled later in life, you're likely wondering just how to reinvent yourself? Have you left it too late?
Henry Oliver's book encourages people to think about themselves as potential late bloomers and to discover and encourage and advocate for late blooming in others. After all, it's never too late to discover our hidden talents and our accomplish our goals - the road to success is never as straightforward as we are lead to believe.
Julia Child didn't discover that she loved to cook until she was thirty-seven. Vera Wang started her design business at forty. And Michelangelo painted The Last Judgment in his sixties.
Come along for wonderful storytelling with fascinating new research, to shift expectations around our life trajectories. You'll discover a range of blueprints for self-reinvention, pairing the newest insights from psychology and neuroscience with late bloomers' remarkable life stories, from Penelope Fitzgerald to Samuel Johnson, from Frank Lloyd-Wright to Malcolm X. www.bellhouse.co.uk Bell House, 27 College Road, Dulwich, SE21 7BG
You can submit your events for free via our website: www.arounddulwich.co.uk
What's On - March
Wednesday 12 March:
Book Swap Social
7.30pm-9.30pm. Join us for a Book Swap Social! Bring a book (or two) that you’re ready to part with and exchange it for something new. It’s a fantastic opportunity to meet fellow book lovers, share your thoughts, and discover new reads. Don't forget to leave a Post-it note review on the books you’re bringing to give others a sneak peek into your recommendations.
Sip on your favourite drink while making new friends and expanding your literary collection. It’s the perfect evening for chatting about stories, exploring new genres, and enjoying good company. Hope to see you there! Please bring a maximum of two books.
Copper Beech Café, Red Post Hill, SE24 9JN. https://www.tickettailor.com/events/dulwichsocial
Wednesday 12 March: EDWI
- International Women's DayMeet Anastasia from Ukraine
7.30pm-9.30pm. Our March event is in honour of International Women's Day. We welcome Anastasia from Ukraine, who will give us the insight story of a Ukrainian who experienced the Russian invasion from the first days of war and who can tell us what happened 3 years ago and how the people of Ukraine stand against the challenges they are facing and how they are dealing with the severe conditions. She had to leave Ukraine with her family and rebuild her life in London. It is a story of choices that had to be made to survive, about dreams coming true and the strength of the human soul that never gives up on hope, faith, and love.
The East Dulwich WI welcomes guests to this event. First-time guests attend for free, and returning guests pay a fee of £5. We welcome new members, join in April 2025 for the membership year April 2025 to March 2026. For more information please email at: join@eastdulwichwi.co.uk.
The Castle Pub, Upstairs Function room, 280 Crystal Palace Road East Dulwich, SE22 9JH.
Thursday 13 March: Rodin, Dante and The Gates of Hell
8pm-9pm. Rodin began working on the commission for The Gates of Hell in 1882 and it was not finished by the time he died in 1917. Taking inspiration from Dante's extraordinary work, Rodin created wonderful drawings and filled his magnificent doors with figures which inspire his entire career. We will look at The Kiss and other depictions of characters condemned to Hell for their crimes, and we will look again at the poem, one of the most important works of all time. Visitors welcome £10 door, cash or card.
JAGS Sixth Form Lecture Theatre, Green Dale SE22 8TJ www.theartssocietydulwich.org.uk
Monday 17 March: Dulwich WI Monthly Meeting
7.30pm-9.30pm. Launched in 2018, the Dulwich WI is a supportive and stimulating group for women of all ages and backgrounds. We meet once a month at 57 North Cross Road, SE22 9ET. We would love to meet you and look forward to welcoming you to our group. https://dulwichwi.com.
Thursday 20 March: Craft & Sip Social
You can submit your events for free via our website: www.arounddulwich.co.uk
7pm-9pm. Join us at our lovely new venue Romeo Jones in Dulwich Village for a two-hour crafting session. Bring your knitting, crochet, embroidery, or art project, chat with fellow locals, and enjoy a glass of wine and tasty nibbles. All abilities welcome and support is offered to those starting a new crafting hobby. Ticket includes one glass of wine and nibbles. Additional food and drinks available for purchase. Romeo Jones, 80 Dulwich Village, Dulwich, SE21 7AJ. https://www. tickettailor.com/events/dulwichsocial?
Friday 21 March: Kingswood
Arts Gala Fundraiser 7pm-11pm
Get ready to immerse yourself in a night filled with delicious food, entertainment, and supporting a great cause! We took over the building in January 2022, and it was in need of a lot of love and attention. We rolled up our sleeves and cleared, cleaned, and renovated the building ready to open in April 2023. It's been an unbelievable turnaround, and we can already see the massive impact Kingswood Arts is having, supporting hundreds of local families and breathing life back into a disused heritage building.
We will be rolling out the red carpet so make sure you come dressed to impress or in whatever makes you feel your best! There will be a delicious 3-course meal and a welcome drink included in the price. There will also be a raffle, an auction with some incredible prizes, and entertainment throughout the night!
Kingswood Arts, Seeley Drive, Kingswood Estate, Dulwich, SE21 8QR. Tickets via Eventbrite.co.uk.
What's On - March
Thursday
27 March:
Under 5s Explore: Mini Masterpieces
10am-11am or 11.30am-12.30pm. Spark your child’s imagination through playful painting. Join these exploratory sessions for under 5s. Each session begins with a journey through the Gallery to discover the different people, places and animals in our paintings, followed by an artmaking activity. Our themes change monthly to keep your little creatives engaged and open them up to new ways of playing.
www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk College Road, Dulwich, SE21 7AD
Friday
28 March:
DAMIEN BARBER & MIKE WILSON, Creeping Jane, James Eagle
Sunday 23 March:
Midcentury Modern®
10am-4pm. Join 85 top UK vintage dealers and contemporary designers in Dulwich College's 60s refectory with its floor to ceiling windows, concrete buttresses and acoustic wall with a packed Victorian cloisters beyond. Discover a spectrum of designs from iconic Cherner and Eames to emerging British visionaries. Come share this exceptional space where design enthusiasts gather twice yearly in pursuit of sustainable, collectable design marvels to elevate their homes. For full details please visit: https://modernshows.com/shows/dulwich-1/
7pm-11pm. Two of the most powerful traditional voices in the UK today, Damien Barber & Mike Wilson sing mainly unaccompanied. They have a rich shared repertoire of traditional songs from around the country.Creeping Jane sing unaccompanied songs in unison and harmony. James Eagle is a strong award-winning singer of mainly traditional songs. £14 advance, £16 on the door (cash or BACS). For tickets and lots more information, please see our website: www.thegooseisout.com
The Ivy House, 40 Stuart Road, Nunhead, SE15 3BE
Saturday
29 March:
Dulwich Symphony Orchestra plays Holst/Sibelius/Brahms
7.30pm-9.30pm. An orchestral concert including Holst's Cotswold Symphony and Brahms's Symphony No 2. Conducted by Chris Stark. Tickets £15/£12 from Eventbrite.co.uk. All Saints West Dulwich, Lovelace Road SE21 8JY.
Engaging With AI
Education News From Alleyn's | www.alleyns.org.uk
How Parents Can Engage with AI Alongside Their Children
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming part of everyday life, and generative AI (Gen AI) tools like ChatGPT are increasingly used in education and work. As parents, engaging with AI alongside your children can help them use it wisely and responsibly. Here are some key ways to do that:
Age & State Appropriate
Before jumping into AI tools, it’s essential to know the age restrictions. Some AI platforms, including ChatGPT, have age limits (often 13+ or 18+ for full access). Discuss with your child why these restrictions exist—privacy concerns, misinformation risks, and the need for critical thinking skills. This can lead to a conversation about online safety and digital responsibility. For more on this, check out JISC’s guide to AI terms and conditions.
Framing AI as A Tool, Not an Authority
A helpful way to think about AI is to frame it as a tool rather than an all-knowing authority. For children, you might describe AI as a smart but fallible classmate: it can help, but it doesn’t always get things right. Encouraging this mindset prevents over-reliance and fosters critical thinking.
The Cake Analogy: When to Use AI
Maha Bali’s cake-making analogy is a great way to teach responsible AI use. Just as you wouldn’t always buy a store-bought cake or make one entirely from scratch, knowing when to use AI is key. Is this a task where full creativity is needed (baking from scratch)? Or one where a little assistance (cake mix) is fine? Helping children understand when AI can be a shortcut and when it hinders learning is essential.
Explore Together
One of the best ways to guide children is to explore AI together. Try using AI tools for different tasks, then discuss the results: What worked well? What didn’t? What surprised you? This handson approach makes AI learning interactive and critical rather than passive.
Environmental Considerations
Finally, the use of AI comes with an environmental impact. Every ChatGPT search requires energy and water—comparable to producing a plastic water bottle. Teaching children to use AI purposefully rather than excessively encourages digital mindfulness and sustainability.
Navigating the AI world with your children is a great way to get a front row seat to what they are experiencing. Whether exploring AI generated stories, or analysing the output to a task, this digital adventure—sometimes fascinating, sometimes frustrating, but always an opportunity to learn.
SE22 Councillors
Councillor James.McAsh | James.McAsh@southwark.gov.uk | @mcash
As a child, the sight of daffodils always filled me with excitement. They marked the arrival of spring and signalled that my birthday wasn’t far off. These days, I don’t anticipate birthdays quite as eagerly (I’ve had more than enough already!), but those first signs of spring still bring joy.
This year, spring will also bring greenery and safety upgrades to Grove Vale. Between March and August, improvements will be made at the junctions with Melbourne Grove, Derwent Grove, Elsie Road, and Tintagel Crescent. While there will be some temporary disruption, including footway and lane closures, the end result will be well worth it. Take a look at the artist impressions!
Meanwhile, we’re working with local businesses on Lordship Lane to tackle shoplifting. In collaboration with our MP, Ellie Reeves, and Southwark’s Cabinet Member for Business, John Batteson, we’ve trialled temporary CCTV cameras
in the area. We’re now assessing the impact of this initiative to determine our next steps. Shop workers should feel safe, and our local businesses deserve protection.
On the topic of the high street, our campaign to save East Dulwich Post Office continues. If you haven’t already, please add your name to the petition: https://www.change.org/p/savelordship-lane-post-office
Lastly, a planning application is set to be submitted for a mixed-use development on Railway Rise, next to East Dulwich train station. The proposal includes both student accommodation and social housing. While the scale is larger than most buildings in the area, it will deliver more social housing at once than we’ve seen in decades. There’s a lot to weigh up, and we Goose Green councillors will ensure your views are heard when the Planning Committee meets. Enjoy the spring sunshine! James McAsh
Rosemead Preparatory School & Nursery
Rosemead Prep marks next chapter with new Head, Rishi Boyjoonauth
Rosemead Preparatory School and Nursery, Dulwich, is delighted to announce Rishi Boyjoonauth as the new Head, effective from September 2025. This is his third headship, having been a principal of an academy in Kent and most recently Head of Prep at Farringtons School. Mr Boyjoonauth has a wide educational background, including teaching at university level and being a Director of Improvement for a large multi academy trust.
Speaking about his appointment, Mr Boyjoonauth, said: ‘I am thrilled and delighted to be appointed as Head of Rosemead. I was attracted by the diverse and inclusive ethos of the school, child-centred focus, as well as the strong academic results. I was instantly struck by the friendly and welcoming staff, diligent atmosphere in the classrooms and the talented children at my interview; I was certainly put through my paces by the pupils during my interview!Icanseethatthereissomuchpotential at Rosemead.’
Nick Hewlett, Head of St Dunstan’s Education Group, of which Rosemead is part, explained: ‘I am absolutely delighted that Mr Boyjoonauth has agreed to lead Rosemead into its next exciting chapter, and we welcome him onto the St Dunstan’s Executive Team. Mr Boyjoonauth is an outstanding educator and leaderandatRosemeadhehastheopportunity tofurtherbuildontheextraordinaryjourneythat has been undertaken in recent years, building a truly progressive curriculum, rooted within a unique culture and ethos, that chimes with the overarching vision of St Dunstan’s Education Group.’
Mr Boyjoonauth joins Rosemead at an exciting time for the Dulwich prep school. Last year, the school won two prestigious awards.
In November, Rosemead was awarded for Excellence and Innovation in Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion at the Independent Schools Association (ISA) Awards. This followed an earlier award for Best EDIB (Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging) at the Education Choices Awards 2024.
Mr Boyjoonauth read Law at University College London and the University of Paris. Prior to entering the world of education, he practised as a solicitor in the City, specialising in Property Litigation. He holds the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH) and has been admitted as a Fellow to the Chartered College of Teaching.
He also is a keen musician, playing the piano, flute and singing tenor in a prominent Chamber Choir. As a fluent French speaker, he was pleased to see that languages play a large part in Rosemead’s curriculum.
Mr Boyjoonauth added: ‘This is an extremely exciting time for the school, and I cannotwaittoembarkuponthisjourneytolead the school into its next phase of development. I lookforwardtomeetingmoreofthepupilsand parentsinthenot-too-distantfuture.’
Prospective families will have an opportunity to meet Mr Boyjoonauth and the rest of the leadership team at Rosemead’s next open morning on Friday 25 April 2025.
Bookatwww.rosemeadprep.org.uk
The Last Word with Kathryn Spencer
I’m the Director of Dulwich Youth Orchestra, which runs fun music courses in the school holidays for children aged 7 – 18 years. I am also a member of the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House and Mum of two boys (who play in DYO!). I’ve been living in and around South East London for almost 20 years.
What brought you here?
I’ve had a long association with Dulwich as I began playing with DYO when was 12. For nearly twenty years I’ve been delighted to be asked back as a coach, and I’m thrilled to have recently become the Director.
The one thing you couldn’t do without?
After many years searching the auction houses, I finally found my three-hundred-year-old violin. I knew as soon as I played it that it was ‘the one’.
The most famous person you’ve met?
I’ve played at Buckingham Palace a few times with the Royal Ballet and Opera and have met King Charles and Queen Camilla each time. They were very charming, kind and terribly concerned that we were warm enough to play.
Describe
your perfect weekend
A wander round the bookshops in the West End (particularly Foyles and Gosh! Comics) with my boys on Saturday, followed by a pizza at Sartori on Great Newport Street. A walk into Kent with friends on Sunday followed by a large family roast at my parents’ house.
Where are you to be found on Saturday?
I am normally working at the Royal Opera House on Saturdays either a Matinee performance, then home for Saturday evening, or hanging out with the family for the day then off to work for an evening performance.
What is your favourite place to eat?
Ganapati in Peckham is a current favourite, the Kuttanadu Duck is outstanding.
Coffee or tea? Where?
Both! Tea first, then coffee. I love to Visit Boulangerie Jade on my DYO mornings – their flat white and croissants are just the thing to get me fueled up for a busy morning.
The best kept secret...
There’s a tiny cocktail bar called Dovetail on Russell Street in Covent Garden. The entrance is very discreet, and the cocktails are delicious!
Where’s your favourite place to walk?
My most special place to walk is up Roseberry Topping in the Cleveland Hills, North Yorkshire near my in-laws. There are spectacular views at the top over to the North Sea, and a great pub at the bottom!
When I want to relax...
I curl up on the sofa with a large mug of tea, a slice of cake, my book and my cat, Trevor.
The book I’m reading at the moment..
I’m re-reading Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale in preparation for reading The Testaments.
My perfect holiday.. is camping in France with our trailer tent.
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