Welcome to SE23
Where has this year gone too! It amazes me that I can be writing about Bonfire Night and Christmas already!
As usual I have rounded up all the great events taking place in and around Dulwich. The events pages start on page 6. November is another busy month for events, so we have a super seven pages of online and in person events happening in and around Dulwich. Remember to check out www.arounddulwich.co.uk for a full list of events, as there are too many to put in the magazine this monthl. Also events get added after I have gone to print.
I am particularly looking forward to attending the event An Evening with Dame Sheila Hancock on the 12th November. It has been organised by St Christopher’s Hospice at Dulwich College. It shoud be a fantastic night. See page 24 for details of how to book.
Janine Winlaw talks planting bulbs in Garden Talk on page 12. Dulwich Hamlet FC have their usual update on page 14. Fitness Tips ask What is Problem Drinking on page 16. Leonie talks squirrels in Pets Corner on page 20. Akwasi Duodu brings us Financial Matters on page 22. Remember the magazine depends on all the wondeful local advertisers, so please do let them know if you saw them in this magazine! Until next time.
Angela
Angela Burgess Head of All Things
Community SE Magazines/Around Dulwich
you can download our rates from our website any time. Or if you prefer, give me a call! Call
@semags_arounddulwich
@SEMagazines
@SEMags_ADulwich
If you would like to advertise in our next
December Deadline - 15 November (please allow an extra two days if design is required)
To advertise in SE23 please contact Angela Burgess on 020 8693 9040 or e-mail: angela@semagazines.co.uk for further information. You can download our media pack from our website: www.semagazines.co.uk.
Photographby Portrayed Photography
Events Calendar - November
Dulwich Concert Series: Claire Booth see p8.
Beginners Ceramics Workshop see p8.
Online Talk: On the Street Where You Live, see p9.
The Forest Within see p6.
Goose Green Coffee Mornings, p24.
An Evening with Meera Sodha, see p9.
BNI Adventures, see p24.
Lewisham Underwater Hockey, see p6.
Live Band Karaoke, see p6.
Beginners Ceramics Workshop see p8.
Beginners Ceramics Workshop see p8.
Dulwich Park Runners see p9.
An Evening with Dame Sheila Hancock, p24.
Goose Green Coffee Mornings, p24.
EDWI - November Meeting, p24.
Goose Green Lunch Club, p24.
Church Going: A Stonemason’s Guide to the Churches of the British Isles p25.
No More Venuses - The Nude in Modern Art p25.
Green Coffee Mornings, p24.
BNI Adventures, see p24.
Bookbinding: Introduction to Visible Stitches p25.
parkruns, see p6.
Learning to Print with Metal Type p6.
Junior parkruns, see p8.
So Last Century’s Vintage Market, see p8.
parkruns, see p6.
The Weekly Horniman Market see p8.
parkruns, see p6.
Junior parkruns, see p8.
Midcentury Modern, see p26.
Carol Concert with Dulwich College Chapel Choir, see p26.
parkruns, see p6.
Junior parkruns, see p8.
The Weekly Horniman Market see p8.
Dulwich Park Runners see p9.
The Dead of Winter, see p26.
Lewisham Underwater Hockey, see p6.
Bach to Baby Family Concert p26.
Beginners Ceramics Workshop see p8.
Dulwich Park Runners see p9.
Mornings, p24.
BNI Adventures, see p24.
Creative Arts Club -Gilding for Christmas, see p26.
Jon
Havelock Walk Winter Weekend, p30.
parkruns, see p6.
Artisan Craft & Gift Fayre p30.
Celebrating 80 years of the Dulwich Choral Society, see p30.
Further details where available can be found in the News and Events pages 6, 8, 9, 24, 25, 26 & 30. Please read as not all the events can fit on the calendar!
Dulwich WI, see page 26.
Dulwich Park Runners see p9.
The Weekly Horniman Market see p8.
Honor Oak WI, see p9.
Lewisham Underwater Hockey, see p6.
The Weekly Horniman Market see p8.
Singaround, p24.
Junior parkruns, see p8.
Cockpit Arts Winter Open Studios, p30.
Bach to Baby Family Concert p26.
Lewisham Underwater Hockey, see p6.
The Forest Within see p6.
Wilks, Duncan McTaggart, Nick Edward Harris @ the Ivy House, see p30.
Goose
Goose Green Coffee
Goose Green Lunch Club, see p24.
Goose Green Lunch Club, p24.
Goose Green Lunch Club, p24.
Unrivalled. So very impressed. —Kindergarten parent See website for July 2024
The early years focus has been invaluable in allowing our daughter to flourish at her pace, in a happy, fun and secure environment.
The perfect setting for
your
child’s early schooling
} Embedding key values and developing ‘the whole child’ through a unique, continuous five-year curriculum
} Focusing exclusively on cutting edge Early Childhood Education (age 2+ to 7+), the most crucial period in a child’s life
} Transitioning seamlessly from play-based to more structured learning
} Expert staff embracing the ethos of Love · Care · Excellence under which children thrive with enthusiasm
} Extensive wrap-around care from 7.45am to 6pm
What's On - November
Until Saturday 9 November:
The Forest Within
11am-6pm. After drawing over 500,000 visitors in New York and Los Angeles, Pete M. Wyer’s groundbreaking immersive sound installation
The Forest Within is set to make its UK debut. Since 2016, Wyer’s visionary work has mesmerised audiences with its unique blend of choral and natural sounds, creating a truly immersive auditory experience. For the first time, the installation will be hosted indoors, inviting audiences to engage their most immersive sense—hearing—to step away from screens and journey inward, where the true experience unfolds.
St Stephen’s Church, College Road, SE21 7HW. Book tickets via www.eventbrite.co.uk.
Friday 1 November: Live Band Karaoke
7pm-11.30pm. Reckon you've got the swagger of Jagger? Well, this is your moment. Belt out classics from Dolly Parton to Dizzee Rascal, live on stage, backed by a stunning 5-piece band, in front of a supportive crowd. Lyrics are provided on a screen, and our compere will be on stage with you to add those critical BVs or keep things on track... Pick from over 350 tunes from all genres. Sign up to sing at the venue, then keep an eye on the 'up next' screen.
The Ivy House, 40 Stuart Road, SE15 3BE. https://live-band-karaoke.designmynight.com
You can submit your events for free via our website: www.arounddulwich.co.uk
Fridays 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29
November: 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 go to www.luwhc.org.uk
Saturdays 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30
November: 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 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 2 November: Learning to Print with Metal Type
2pm-5.30pm. Choose a typeface or two from our huge library of historic metaltype and spend an immersive afternoon with the co-founders of the Print Room & Bindery – Simon Trewin and Tania Hurt-Newton learning the basics of letterpress printing. Take home a pile of handmade goodies all handprinted by YOU in our wonderful basement Print Room & Bindery. There are only 3 places on this course so we can provide lots of tutoring and on-press time. Tickets are £60 per person. www.bellhouse.co.uk.
Bell House, 27 College Road, Dulwich SE21 7BG
Discover the gentle touch of Portfolio Soaps designed with your skin in mind
Handcrafted with nourishing plant oils and butters for a luxurious feel Choose from pure essential oils or go scent-free
Inspired by Natu Crafted with Car Handmade in Dulw www portfoliosoaps co uk
What's On - November
Sundays 3, 10, 17 & 24
November: 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/
Sunday
3 November:
So Last Century's Vintage Fair
New Cross 10.30am-4pm
So Last Century is back at Goldsmiths, University of London, in the enormous Great Hall, at the Richard Hoggart Building. On the day you’ll find 50 hand-picked 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 lots more. Cafe Thirty-Five will be open on site, serving hot drinks and food all day. Advance tickets via: https://www.solastcenturyfair.co.uk. There’s a 2-for-1 offer available for a limited period. £3 on the door (£2 if you follow SLC on social media). Entry for Goldsmiths’ students and staff with Uni ID is £1. UNDER 16S, FREE. Goldsmiths University of London, 8 Lewisham Way, New Cross SE14 6NW.
Sundays 3, 10, 17 & 24
November: 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
Mondays 4, 11, 18 & 25
November: Beginners Ceramics Workshop 7pm-8.30pm
Learn the basics of ceramics in this fun 4-week workshop. Our course has been specifically designed for beginners who are keen to learn new skills in a warm, welcoming environment. Over the four weeks participants will create 3 outcomes of work using pinching, coiling and slabbing techniques. We will look at how these techniques are applied in ceramics in the everyday world and in Fine Art and design pieces to suit each new artist. Students will explore decorating and finishing styles in their final week. https://www.alleyns.org.uk.
courses@alleyns.org.uk / 020 8613 5027. Alleyn's School, Junior School Art Room, Townley Road, East Dulwich, SE22 8SU.
Monday 4 November: Dulwich Concert Series
Claire Booth 7.30pm-9.30pm
An evening of French, English and American art song and cabaret with Claire Booth, soprano and Jams Coleman, piano.
MCT at Alleyn's, Townley Road SE22 8SU Book via: https://www.alleyns.org.uk.
Tuesdays 5, 12, 19 & 26
November:
What's On - November
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
Tuesday 5 November: Online
talk - On the Street Where
You Live: Alleyn Road
7pm-8pm
Alleyn Road has a pleasant wide aspect with large houses on both sides, it was not like that originally. Although building started in the 1860s, the final houses on the west side were not completed until the early 1890s. Prior to 1900, the east side consisted of the fences of the back gardens of the larger houses in Alleyn Park and it took almost a further 100 years for this side of the road to be fully developed, the last houses being completed in the 1990s. Ian McInnes' talk will cover not only the houses and their builders, but also a range of their occupiers, many of them notable, and interesting, characters. Tickets £5 per proceeds go to Bell House. https://www.bellhouse.co.uk.
Tuesday 5 November: Honor Oak WI Monthly Meeting 7:30pm-9.30pm
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. November’s speaker is Candy Blackham talking about her book "Green Lewisham: Our Treasured Open Spaces", exploring the surprisingly numerous green places in the London Borough of Lewisham.
It’s also our third and final ‘bring a friend’ month for 2024, it’s free to come and if you’ve not been before - we’d love to welcome you! honoroakwi@gmail.com / Honoroak_WI www.facebook.com/groups/honoroakwi/
Wednesday 6 November: An Evening with Meera Sodha
7.30pm-8.30pm. Join Village Books & Alleyn’s Schools Enterprises for an evening with bestselling and multi-award-winning author, Meera Sodha. Dinner: 120 vegan and vegetarian recipes for the most important meal of the day is the new book from the Guardian columnist and is a fresh and joyful celebration of the power of a good meal.
Standard ticket: £12, Book & ticket £37 (includes a copy of Dinner, book RRP £27). Concession ticket (under 18s): £10.
https://www.alleyns.org.uk. You can submit your events for free via our website: www.arounddulwich.co.uk
The Junior School Hall at Alleyn's School, Townley Road, East Dulwich SE22 8SU.
Autumn is Bulb Planting Season!
Garden Talk with Janine Winlaw | Instagram @janinewinlaw
It may seem a way off, but autumn is the time to plant your spring bulbs - you’ll really appreciate those splashes of colour after the grey winter months. Bulbs look great in drifts under deciduous trees and bushes or at the front of borders, but work well in containers too. Here are a few to try.
Crocuses
One of the first flowers to emerge in February, they create a pretty wash of purple or yellow naturalised in the lawn and are lovely clustered under magnolia trees or crammed into pots. Soft purple C. tommasinianus ‘Barr’s Purple’ with its golden orange stamens is a winner while C. vernus ‘Pickwick’ is more robust and bigger (12-15cm), so good for impact on a dull winter’s day. Sarah Raven’s favourite C.minimus ‘Spring Beauty’ is a stunner and great in pots on the windowsill where you can admire the striking dark purple stripe on the outer petal. Most need well drained soil and sun.
Narcissi
Daffodils are a must for cheerful spring colour and lovely scent, and there’s a variety for every taste. N. ‘Carlton’ (45cm) is for fans of bold bright yellow daffs, they flower early (March) and make great cut flowers. For a subtler look, N. ‘Thalia’ has elegant off white sweetly scented flowers (35cm). Narcissus ‘Pheasant’s Eye’ is another white variety that naturalises well. Even more dainty is ‘White Lady’, and ‘Tete-a-tete’ is a cute dwarf daffodil with golden petals, perfect for pots. Full sun to part shade.
Muscari
Flowering from around April these pretty spires of tiny grape-like flowers in blues and whites are easy to grow and look great lining pathways as well as in pots mingled with narcissus or hyacinths. M. armeniacum with its brilliant blue flowers is a classic (though it can colonise a bit) while M. azureum is a less vigorous early flowerer (March) with paler blue heads. They like sun but will tolerate shade.
Hyacinths
These are showy highly scented bulbs that flower in April and May and look lovely in pots with tulips as well as in the border. Along with white and bright pink there’s a huge range of purples and blues. One of the most stunning is H. orientalis ‘Woodstock’– a deep plum that looks fab with tulips of the same shade. H. orientalis ‘Peter Stuyvesant’ is a dramatic dark violet colour and ‘Blue Pearl’ is a classic with violet blue flowers and dark green leaves. They like full sun or part shade.
Tulips
Stunning and stylish, a big block of tulips will brighten up your garden from April/ May. They come in a mouthwatering array of colours from dark varieties such as ‘Queen of Night’ and the more beetroot purple ‘Negrita’ to the pastel ‘China Pink’. Pure white ‘Catherina’ is gorgeous, ‘Spring Green’ is pretty and fresh, while ‘Ballerina’ is for those who love hot orange and red. Most like sun and well-drained soil. They work well planted in pots that can be moved out of sight when they’ve finished flowering.
Alliums
These are fab for adding striking colour and interest in spring to early summer. Most alliums are pinky purple and range from the large A. ‘Globemaster’ to classic A. ‘Purple Sensation’. White varieties include A. nigrum and ‘Silver Springs’. These look great popping up amongst ornamental grasses.
Planting
The rule of thumb is to plant bulbs between twice and three times the depth of the bulb. A bulb planter is helpful to gauge depth. Bulbs tend to need well-drained soil so add a handful of sharp sand to into the hole before planting to minimise rotting. As well as local garden centres, you can buy bulbs online from places like Sarah Raven or Peter Nyssen.
November News
https://dulwichhamletfc.co.uk
@DulwichHamletFC @dhstorg | info@dhst.org.uk | @DulwichHamletFC |
November means we’re racing through the season. This month sees a whopping thirteen chances to catch a Hamlet side at home or away, and since brevity is the soul of wit, let’s get straight to the action.
The month kicks off with three games in the space of a week for our men’s side, who take on Wingate & Finchley on Saturday 2nd at Champion Hill. Then expect fireworks at Hendon as we travel north on the evening of Tuesday 5th November; before a return to the Hill to host Potters Bar Town on Saturday 9th.
Sunday 10th sees the visit of AFC Sudbury to Champion Hill for our women’s first team’s only home league match of the month. So be sure to join the Pepper Army for that one. The same day sees our women’s reserves hosting Denham United at our training ground at St Olaves and St Saviours Sports Ground.
On Saturday 16th our men are back on the road, heading to Lewes and their glorious Dripping Pan stadium. The following day, Sunday 17th, our women’s firsts head to Real Bedford, while the reserves are away to Richmond Park.
Then things really crank up for the men, with four games in just 12 days, including a tantalising cup tie. We travel to Folkestone Invicta for a rearranged league match on Tuesday 19th; then host Hashtag United on Saturday 23rd, following
their visit to the Hill in the FA Trophy at the end of last month. It’ll be a quick smart turnaround for the visit of League One Leyton Orient to Champion Hill on the evening of Tuesday 26th. This London Senior Cup tie against Football League pros is one to savour and hopes of a giant-killing are beginning to drift over SE22. We’ve won the London Senior cup five times before, though not for twenty years – still what dreams may come.
The bumper month ends with the men’s team back on the road to take on Cheshunt on Saturday 30th; and with our women’s sides also competing on cup fronts, we’ll all need a good lie down before December and the Christmas crackers come.
Talking of which, don’t forget to head to the Supporters’ Trust mega container on match days to pick up all your pink ‘n’ blue gifts. Replica shirts are still in stock and our much-admired goalkeeper shirts – in pink, blue or green – are now available to order. Head to dhst.org.uk/clubshop for a browse.
To keep you warm you’ll find our classic bus number scarf. Now a bestseller, it lists all the bus routes that get you to Champion Hill. We’ve recently added the number 40 – running from Dulwich Library to the Elephant and beyond – and last month presented its drivers at Camberwell Bus Garage with their own scarves to thank them for getting us safely and spirited to the Hill.
Up the Hamlet!
What Is Problem Drinking & How Do We Identify It?
Fitness tips with Leanne Spencer | www.bodyshotperformance.com
I’ve decided to share this article, in the hopes it might spark something for someone reading. I’m 12 years of being completely alcohol-free. And free is definitely the keyword in that sentence. I was in a terrible state with alcohol and cannot imagine ever going anywhere near alcohol again, for me it’s been an incredible journey.
Here’s the thing I want to discuss today, how do we define problem drinking? What makes it a problem and beyond “social norms”? I think it’s easy to get a bit caught up with the idea of problem drinking and alcoholism. And this often starts with comparison and benchmarking statements, such as:
• Do I drink too much?
• I don’t drink as much as them
• I never drink spirits
All these types of comparative questions and statements don’t take into account the different ways drinking can be problematic for some. I believe problem drinking comes in many forms.
• You have three drinks and lose your phone.
• You have two drinks and text someone something you wish you hadn’t.
• You don’t turn into a nice person on the slightest sniff of alcohol.
I categorise all of that as problem drinking. Just as problematic in many ways as the type of drinking I was doing, which was a little bit beyond that. Problem drinking is any situation in which you lose some semblance of control.
Create Your Own Benchmark
You might think you have a drinking problem, and if you think you have, you probably have. It’s important not to look to others to establish a benchmark of what is and isn’t a problem. But think about your own benchmark, alcohol awareness is about asking yourself:
• Have you had enough?
• Do you feel it’s no longer serving you?
• Where is it taking you?
• Is it affecting your health?
Here’s what you’ve got to gain
Control - Control over yourself, your impact, your actions. It’s a huge thing.
Autonomy - You are no longer dancing to somebody and something else’s tune. That’s also a massive one, and incredibly freeing. And finally…
Opportunity - Opportunities come to you when you’re in a good place to receive them. I think a lot of us think I’m not an alcoholic. Therefore, those things don’t apply to me, but you might find if you think about it deeply, maybe they do. Even if you are an occasional drinker, but you don’t like where it takes you. Going alcohol-free can be a game changer.
I have had an incredible journey since I became sober, and I could not have done that without sobriety. So, give some thought to what I’ve said there’s a lot of opportunity out there that we can make the most of when we’re clear-headed and open. If you are in a situation where you are questioning if alcohol is really serving you, I give you strength, get yourself out of it. Take one small action today.
Year 11 Open Days for Year 12 Entry September 2025
• Wednesday 6th November 4.00pm6.30pm
• Wednesday 27th November 4.00pm6.30pm
* By prior appointment only. Virtual tours will also take place during events above.
The Problem With Squirrel Chasing
Pets Corner with Leonie St Clair | www.londondogstraining.co.uk
Istill see dogs whizzing around our local parks, off lead and in hot pursuit of some small furryusually a squirrel. At this time of year, the squirrels are slowing down and are even more enticing. Other dogs may not be chasing but they are immovably fixated on the other animal. Whether chasing or fixated, all are impervious to owner direction- that is if the owner is anywhere to be seen, and mostly they are not.
A proportion of dog owners feel this is excellent pet exercise and a great way to let off steam. Well, I must disagree. Once the genie called prey drive is let loose around other animals it is very difficult to put back in the bottle. Allowed to practise and refine this highly instinctive hunting behaviour you will have a very frustrated dog with zero recall, looking to hunt and pursue other animals at every opportunity, and prey may include cats, other small pets, and occasionally even small dogs.
Mankind has channelled the dog’s hunting and chasing instincts for aeons. Working Spaniels and Labradors are still taught a highly controlled version of prey drive where they flush and retrieve game to hand, but with a soft mouth. Other dog types are developed to hunt game, including deer; we even bet on lure chasing dogs. Sheep and cattle dog breeds are trained in attenuated versions of hunting behaviour, like herding and droving. In each instance, canine predatory instinct is harnessed and channelled- not given free rein. Exceptions to this are terriers- developed to hunt and kill, independent of owner direction. These may require extra effort in prey drive training.
Prey drive is different to any other type of apparently aggressive behaviour and is mediated by a different part of the brain. It is the hardwired instinct to stalk, pursue and kill other animals, ultimately for food. These behaviours are common to all predatory species for which almost nothing compares to the thrill of the chase. Why encourage our domesticated companion predator to have freedom to practice and revert? As with all instincts, certain responses are triggered by the environment, early. Quick movements will prompt most young dogs and cats to pursue and capture anything from tumbling leaves to flies. Squealing noises can also attract instant interest and even fixation. Unharnessed, nature will take its course.
Responsible dog owners recognise that hunting other animals is inappropriate for the city environment. Your dog may never catch the squirrel, but they are refining and augmenting the desire to try with each repetition and this leads to frustration. Someone’s pet Chihuahua or puppy may look enticing to a frustrated dog in prey drive; species recognition failing in the heat of the moment.
Ideally, start to channel your pup’s predatory instincts from the day one. Forget freedom of expression, think controlled expression. Train them to chase and retrieve toys and other objects you choose. Control and satisfy that hunting appetite by teaching ‘find’ and tracking games. Many dogs will want to rip and destroy. Teach tuggy with very clear rules, provide chew and destruction toys. Teach a solid ‘leave’ and train your dog to listen to you anytime, anywhere. Dogs are not wolves; they do not need to hunt and chase other animals to survive. A responsible owner will recognise the need to harness those wolf-like instincts in ways that are socially acceptable. Do not let your dog chase squirrels as a substitute for interactive training, exercise, and play.
Winter Market Place
Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th December 10.30am-4pm
Adult Learning Lewisham
Brockley Rise Centre
2 Brockley Rise
SE23 1PR
Lewisham School of Arts and Design brings together a group of designers, artists and learners selling jewellery, pottery, artwork, prints, glass, upholstery, cushions, decorative textiles, seasonal cards, artisan bread and floral designs.
A fantastic opportunity to enjoy, browse, purchase and commission a bespoke piece and even join a class with Adult Learning Lewisham.
www.lewisham.gov.uk /adultlearning
Financial Matters
With Akwasi Duodu | www.sterlingandlaw.com
The four Most Tax-Efficient Ways to Save and Invest Money in the UK
Whether you’re looking to start saving or have savings already, you’ll probably want to avoid your heard-earned gains falling into the hands of the taxman. Here are five proven and fully legal taxefficient ways to save and invest your money in the UK.
1) Pensions: The ‘I’m Going to be Really Old One Day’ Account
Pensions don’t sound like much fun but hear me out. As a means of saving, they are almost unbeatable. You get tax relief on contributions, which means that a £10,000 contribution to a pension turns into £12,500 immediately. If you’re a higher-rate taxpayer, you could claim even more in tax relief!
Too good to be true? Well, no. This is the governments way of encouraging people to save for retirement, essentially making them less of a burden on the state in old age. At retirement, you’d be eligible to withdraw 25% of your pension pot as a tax-free lump sum. The remainder would be subject to income tax. Overall, a great tax efficient investment.
2) ISAs: Your Tax-Free Treasure Chest
Think of ISAs (Individual Savings Accounts) as your financial Fort Knox. You could stash away up to £20,000 each tax year without having to hand over a penny to the taxman. It’s like having a secret vault in your basement, except instead of gold bars, you could have cash, as in an interest-bearing savings account, or a portfolio of stocks and shares. You could get your children in on the act too by setting them up with a Junior ISA. The current limit is £9,000 per year and the money would be locked away until they turned18. Beware though. The Junior ISA becomes theirs once they turn 18 so they could blow the lot on a holiday in Ibiza of they wished!
3) Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs): Investing in Startups & Your Social Life
For the experienced high net worth investor who may have maxed out on pension and ISA contributions, VCTs allow you to invest in small, fledgling businesses. As an incentive for doing so, you’ll receive up to 30% tax relief on your investment. If you held onto those shares for five years, any profit you made would be tax-free. Variations on this theme include Enterprise Investment Schemes. Small fledgling business have great growth potential but also come with a great deal of risk, so make sure you understand and are prepared to take that risk before taking the plunge. Best bought through an independent financial adviser.
4) Lifetime ISA: Saving for the Future, One Cheesy Ad at a Time
The Lifetime ISA (LISA) is for those aged 18 to 39 who want to save for a first home or retirement. The maximum investment is £4,000 a year and the government will top up your contributions by 25%, up to £1,000 a year. Just remember, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows—there are withdrawal penalties if you took out money for anything other than a house or retirement. So, keep your eye on the prize!
Conclusion
Saving and investing money in a tax-efficient manner in the UK doesn’t have to be a dry topic best left to accountants and tax advisers. With these four strategies, you could grow your wealth and keep more of your hard-earned cash. The taxman may be lurking, but with a bit of wit, wisdom and advice, you could keep him at bay while you build your financial empire!
What's On - November
Wednesdays 6, 13, 20 & 27
November: Goose Green
Coffee Morning 11am-12.30pm
Drop in for a warm welcome, coffee, tea and cake! 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.
Thursday 7, 14, 21 & 28
November: Goose Green
Lunch Club 12.30pm-2pm
A friendly and informal club for people over 55. Every Thursday 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 call Martin 07939 288885 or Barbara 0208 693 2090. Goose Green Centre, St John’s Church, 62A East Dulwich Road SE22 9AT.
Thursdays 7, 14, 21 & 28
November: 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 on 07843 989728 for more information. Dulwich & Sydenham Golf Club, Grange Lane, College Road SE21 7LH. Register at: www.eventbrite.co.uk
Sunday 10 November:
Singaround at The Ivy House
7pm-10.30pm Singaround consists of people – or sometimes small groups of people – taking it in turns to sing a song. We don't use the stage and use mics. You can sing whatever you like - any genre, any language. Everybody is welcome, including those who have never sung in front of other people before. £5 on the door (cash or BACS only) www.thegooseisout.com. The Ivy House, 40 Stuart Road SE15 3BE.
Tuesday 12 November: An Evening with Dame Sheila
Hancock 6pm-10.30pm (Seated at 7pm)
We are delighted to host this evening with St Christopher’s Vice President and long-term hospice supporter Dame Sheila Hancock speaking candidly on stage to St Christopher’s Vice Chair of Trustees Eleanor Brown and reflecting on her life and extensive career before taking questions from the audience. After the event Dame Sheila will be signing copies of her latest book “Old Rage” which will be available for purchase. Our thanks to Dulwich Books and Dulwich College for supporting this evening. Tickets £35.00 pp which includes a welcome drink at: www.stchristophers.org.uk/event/ Dulwich College, Dulwich Common SE21 7LD
Wednesday 13 November:
East Dulwich WI
Make Christmas Pomanders with Marisa We are delighted to welcome Marisa (Instagram @ mariwish) 7.30pm-9.30pm. All equipment will be provided. Guests are very welcome, first-time guests attend for free, returning guests pay £5 (cash only please). We welcome new members, the subscription for the year 24/25 year is £24 if you join in November. All inquiries and information at: join@eastdulwichwi.co.uk will be answered with detailed info. The Castle Pub, Upstairs Function room, 280 Crystal Palace Road, East Dulwich, SE22 9JH.
Thursday 14 November:
The Extraordinary Lives of Medieval Women 7pm-8pm
Few women had the luxury of writing down their thoughts and feelings during medieval times. But remarkably, there are at least four who did: Marie de France, a poet; Julian of Norwich, a mystic and anchoress; Christine de Pizan, a widow and court writer; and Margery Kempe, a no-good wife. Hetta Howes uncovers these women’s stories to give us unique historical and political insight that challenges what we hold to be common knowledge about medieval women in Europe. Tickets via Eventbrite. Dulwich Books, 6 Croxted Road SE21 8SW.
Thursday 14 November:
Church Going: A Stonemason’s Guide to the Churches of the British Isles 7.30pm-8.30pm
Andrew Ziminski has spent decades as a stonemason and church conservator, working on some of the greatest cathedrals and churches in Britain, including the tower of Salisbury Cathedral and the dome of St Paul’s in London. Church Going is a handbook to the medieval churches of the British Isles, in which he reveals their fascinating histories, features and furnishings, from flying buttresses to rood screens, lichgates to chancels. Full details and tickets at: www.trybooking.com/uk/events/landing/69179?
Holst Hall, James Allen's Girls' School, 144 East Dulwich Grove, East Dulwich SE22 8TE. A Village Books event. In partnership with James Allen’s Girls’ School.
Thursday 14 November:
How to Pivot your Career
7pm-8.30pm. Ambra is a professional Coach, specialised in Change and Organizational Culture and Conflict. She trained in Coaching at the NeuroLeadership Institute in London and became passionate about psychology and neuroscience through her learning as an adoptive parent. She started to recognise that all of us can benefit from understanding the neuroscience of our thoughts and actions. We pay attention to our body, diet and professional training, so why not pay more attention to how our brain operates?
Tickets: £20 www.bellhouse.co.uk/events Bell House, 27 College Road, Dulwich SE21 7BG
Thursday 14 November: No More Venuses - the Nude in Modern Art 8pm-9pm
Since the early Renaissance the female body has been paraded as a representation of Venus, elevating it from a naked body into an idealised nude, given to the changing ideals of beauty over the ages. It is only in the 19th century that the naked body sheds its classical veneer to adopt new guises, mostly in tandem with the development of avant garde art movements and reflecting the changing attitudes of society and the artist's own aims. Lecturer: Lydia Bauman Visitors welcome £10 at the door, cash or card. JAGS Sixth Form Lecture Theatre, Green Dale, SE22 8TJ. www.theartssocietydulwich.org.uk.
Friday 15 November:
Bookbinding: Introduction to Visible Stitches 10am-4pm
A taster session suitable to anyone who can thread a needle and handle a craft knife! No experience required. All materials and equipment supplied. The exposed stitch style of binding uses stitching sections straight through the spine of the book. These make great sketch books as they open flat. You will take home one or two bound books (depending on your speed) and the skills to build on at future workshops and work on at home. www.bellhouse.co.uk/events Bell House, 27 College Road, Dulwich SE21 7BG
26
What's On - November
Sunday 17 November:
Midcentury Modern®
10am-4pm. 60 top midcentury dealers descend upon the bold brutalist Christison Hall and red brick Victorian cloisters of Dulwich College for the day with 28 modern designers too. Prices range from £10 - £10,000 to suit all pockets so there really is something for everyone.
ADVANCE TICKETS ONLINE ONLY. £11 entry from 10am. 2 for £12 from 2pm. Dulwich College, Dulwich Common, SE21 7LD. https://modernshows.com.
Monday 18 November: 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 would love to meet you and look forward to welcoming you to our group. Info at: www.dulwichwi.com
Kix Bar + Kitchen, 57 North Cross Road, SE22 9ET
Tuesday 19 / Monday 25 November: Bach to Baby Christmas Family Concert
Tuesday 19th - 10.30am-11.30am East Dulwich / Monday 25th - 4pm-5pm Dulwich
Grab your family, harness up your fastest reindeer and meet us at a Bach to Baby concert for the perfect prelude to the holiday season! Remember: Up to 2 children come free on every Adult Ticket! Book directly from our website: www.bachtobaby.com. St. John the Evangelist, East Dulwich/St Barnabas Church, Dulwich.
Thursday 21 November: The
Dead of Winter: The Demons, Witches & Ghosts of Christmas
7pm-8pm. Start your Christmas celebrations slightly differently this year and join us for an evening about the darker side of the festive season as Sarah Clegg uncovers the folk tales and arcane traditions that still haunt Europe’s winter months. Dulwich Books, 6 Croxted Road SE21 8SW. Book tickets via Eventbrite.
Friday 22 November:
Carol Concert, with Dulwich College Chapel Choir 7pm
With Dulwich College Chapel Choir and friends. It will be held in Christ's Chapel and there will be Christmas drinks after. The broadcaster Susanna Reid and Dr Joe Spence, former Master of Dulwich College, will compere the evening and further speakers tbc at the end of October.
Tickets: £20. Children FREE www.markevisonfoundation.org.
Christ's Chapel of God's Gift, 14 Gallery Road, Dulwich, SE21 7AS.
Friday 29 November: Creative Arts Club – Art for All | Gilding for Christmas 10am-12.30pm.
Join artist Sarah Wetherall to learn how to use gold metal leaf to decorate pretty much anything! All materials and refreshments provided. Tickets £35. www.bellhouse.co.uk/events Bell House, 27 College Road, Dulwich SE21 7BG.
St Dunstan’s College celebrates glowing inspection report which praises celebration of diversity
South London’s award-winning St Dunstan’s College is celebrating the findings of its latest inspection from the Independent Schools Inspectorate, carried out in April 2024. St Dunstan’s Head, Nick Hewlett, said: ‘I am absolutely thrilled to share our latest inspection report with our community. We are one of the first schools in the whole country to receive two significant strengths, and I am delighted they recognise both our broad, forward-thinking, renaissance education and how diversity is embedded and celebrated in everything we do at St Dunstan’s.’
The ‘breadth and relevance’ of St Dunstan’s four timetabled curriculums was praised as the first significant strength, with the report explaining: ‘Leaders have put in place an ambitious, timetabled curriculum which provides extensive opportunities for pupils to acquirethebroadestoflearningexperiences.’
It added: ‘The breadth and relevance of this curriculum and leaders’ decision that all pupils participate in these opportunities, is a significantstrength.’
The second significant strength applauded the school’s dedication to celebrating diversity. ‘The school’s ethos supports leaders in creating a strong community where diversity is celebrated,’ the report found. ‘This works
through many facets of school life: through the curriculum, through the varied groups in school,ledbypupilswhichcelebratediversity, and through producing events such as the annual St Dunstan’s festival. All these promote respect and understanding among the pupils for everyone in their own school and in the wider local community. This is a significant strengthoftheschool.’
The inspection report comes at an exciting time for St Dunstan’s. This summer, the College celebrated its best A Level results in its 136-year history. 88% of all A Level grades achieved were A*- B with an outstanding 61% being
A - A* and 27% being A*. Meanwhile, Year 11 students also achieved record-breaking results in their summer examinations. 90% of all GCSE grades were 9-6, equivalent to A*-B, with an exceptional 78% being 9-7, which is A*- A, and 53% 9-8, which is the former A*.
Speaking about the results, Nick Hewlett said: ‘These outcomes truly showcase the St Dunstan’s difference and demonstrate that it is perfectly possible to achieve exceptional academic results within the framework of a liberal,progressiveandRenaissancecurriculum – one that is bold, ambitious and champions individuality.’
Following the historic results, 97% of the cohort will be heading to their chosen destination, which includes 100% success for students holding an offer for Oxbridge, medicine, music conservatoires, art foundation or drama school.
St Dunstan’s has positioned itself as one of the leading independent schools in the United Kingdom, being named Co-educational School of the Year in 2020 followed by Independent School of the Year in 2022, and more recently, the Most Progressive Independent School in south-east England in 2024. Find out more about St Dunstan’s College at an upcoming open event. Book at: www.stdunstans.org.uk
What's On - November
Friday 29 – Saturday 30
November: Cockpit Arts
Winter Open Studios 2024
12pm-6pm. Cockpit’s Open Studios returns this festive season, bringing you the chance to meet and shop direct from over 175 of London’s finest artist-makers across two weekends in November (21-24 November in Bloomsbury and 29 November-1 December in Deptford). Lewisham residents get half-price admission in Deptford. Book at: cockpitstudios.org/open-studios. Cockpit Deptford, 18-22 Creekside SE8 3DZ.
Friday 29 November: Jon Wilks, Duncan McTaggart, Nick Edward Harris 7-11pm
Jon Wilks is a prominent fingerpicking guitarist and performs traditional English folk songs and broadside ballads, and talks about the original singers and collectors of these songs. Duncan McTaggart is a composer, singer-songwriter, and interpreter of traditional folk songs. Nick Edward Harris is a fine singer-songwriter based in South London. His music has met with acclaim from many including Clash Music, Q Magazine and BBC6 Music. £14 advance, £16 door (cash or BACS only). www.thegooseisout.com.
The Ivy House, 40 Stuart Road SE15 3BE.
Saturday 30 November –Sunday 1 December: Havelock Walk Winter Weekend
11am-6pm. Come and join us on the cobbles…visit a selection of art studios and a craft fair - lots to see and some great presents to be had! Plus live music from Oliver Anderson, food, mulled wine and pre xmas fun! Seasons greetings everyone… https://www.havelockwalkstudios.com/
Saturday 30 November: Artisan Craft & Gift Fayre
10am-4pm. We are super excited to be hosting another Fair at this wonderful location right in the heart of Dulwich Village. We have over 30 amazing individual stalls showcasing their wonderful artisan craft and bespoke gifts including Artwork, candles, organic skincare, crystals, papercraft and lots more! An event for the whole family, from a treat for the children to something special for a loved one you will find it all under one roof. No tickets needed, just turn up on the day! St Barnabas Parish Hall, 23 Dulwich Village, Dulwich SE21 7BT. www.lkpopupfayres.com.
Saturday 30 November: The Great Treemoot: Treemoot
Storytelling Festival
2pm-4.30pm
On this final day of the festival, author and botanical storyteller Lisa Schneidau will perform The World Tree, followed by Nic Salazar Sutil and James Berridge's performed reading of their work The Great Treemoot. The day will also feature an arts and craft workshop led by artist Rhona Iris. Part of The Treemoot International Storytelling Festival, held to celebrate the culture and diversity of The Great North Wood in SE London. Treemoot Camp, The Fort, Grange Lane, Dulwich SE21 7LH. Book your free ticket via Eventbrite.
Saturday
30 November:
Celebrating 80 years of the Dulwich Choral Society
7.30pm-9.30pm. Joint concert by the Dulwich Choral Society and the Dulwich Symphony Orchestra.
Fanny Mendelssohn Overture in C Brahms Song of Destiny
Beethoven Choral Fantasy
Fauré Requiem
Adam Heron (piano), Alessandro Minarik (treble) Gareth John (baritone) Conducted by Chris Stark and William Vann. Tickets £20/£16/ under 16s free via: www.ticketsource.co.uk/ dulwichchoralsociety/t-pqarvdr.
All Saints West Dulwich, Lovelace Road, SE21 8JY
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BabyBallet
The award winning movement to music, dance & singing programme for boys and girls from 6 months upwards run with a fun, safe and caring environment. Classes in Dulwich. Call Stephanie 07809 148348 | www.babyballet.co.uk.
HartBeeps
Mondays at Christ Church, 263 Barry Road, East Dulwich, SE22 0JT. Mondays 10am Happy House, 11.15am Baby Beeps & 12.30pm Baby Bells.. http://hartbeeps.com
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
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
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.
Your Class Here
If you would like to advertise your children’s class here, please e-mail angela@semagazines.co.uk for details.
Community Index
Useful Contacts
The University Hospital Lewisham Tel 020 8333 3000
Lewisham Borough Council Tel 020 8314 6000 (24 hrs) www.lewisham.gov.uk
Lewisham Early Years Service Tel 0800 085 0606
Forest Hill Safer Neighbourhood Team Tel: 020 8721 2723
Email: ForestHill.SNT@met.police.uk
Community Groups
Forest Hill Society www.foresthillsociety.com
Friends of One Tree Hill http://friendsofonetreehill.wordpress.com www.facebook.com/friendsofOTH / @Friends_of_OTH
Tewkesbury Lodge Estate Residents’ Association www.tewkesburylodge.org.uk
Sydenham Garden Tel 020 829 11650 www.sydenhamgarden.org.uk
Our Lady and St Philip Neri Friends Association www.olspnfriendsassociation.com
Independent community websites www.se23.com
Local MPs
Ellie Reeves (Lab, Lewisham West) Tel 020 7219 2668 ellie.reeves.mp@parliament.uk
Janet Daby (Lab, Lewisham East) Tel 020 8461 4733 Janet.daby.mp@parliament.uk
Vicky Foxcroft - (Lab, Lewisham North) Tel 020 8469 4638 vicky.foxcroft.mp@parliament.uk
Local Councillors
Forest Hill Ward
Peter Bernards (Labour) Tel 020 8314 9927
cllr_peter.bernards@lewisham.gov.uk
Sophie Davis (Labour) Tel 020 8314 3493
Cllr_Sophie.Davis@lewisham.gov.uk
Billy Harding (Labour) Tel tba
Cllr_billy.harding@lewisham.gov.ukSurgeries
All councillors: 2nd & 4th Saturday of the month, 11am-12.30pm. Forest Hill Library, Dartmouth Road, SE23. 11am–12.30pm.
Perry Vale Ward
John Paschoud (Labour) Tel 020 8314 3437
John.Paschoud@Lewisham.gov.uk
Susan Wise (Labour) Tel 020 8314 2214
cllr_susan.wise@lewisham.gov.uk
Sakina Sheikh (Labour) 020 8314 7963
Cllr_Sakina.Sheikh@lewisham.gov.uk
Surgeries
Meet on the 2nd Wednesday of each month (excluding August) at The Lodge Cafe (Stanstead Lodge Senior Club), 260 Stanstead Road, SE23 1DD. We’ll be there from 10:30am until 12:30pm.
Crofton Park Ward
Chris Barnham (Labour) Tel 020 8314 9896
cllr_chris.barnham@lewisham.gov.uk
Tauseef Anwar (Labour) 020 8314 9930
Cllr_Tauseef.Anwar@lewisham.gov.uk
Carol Webley-Brown (Labour) Tel 07795 915362
cllr_carol.webley-brown@lewisham.gov.uk
Surgeries
Crofton Park councillors offer in-person councillor surgeries on:
2nd Saturday of each month at 11-12
4th Saturday of each month at 11-12
4th Tuesday of each month at 2-3pm
All sessions take place at Crofton Park Community Library, Brockley Road. There are no surgeries in August, nor on 26th July, 24th or 27th December.
Index of Advertisers
Adult Learning Lewisham: Winter Market Place 21
Amanda Azzopardi Aesthetics 7
Around Dulwich: Local Website................................. 31
Ayrton Windows & Doors .......................................... 35
Bells Bathrooms & Kitchens........................................2
The Dovetail Joint ..................................................... 17
Dulwich Carpet Company ........................................ 15
Dulwich Prep & Senior School 23
Flower Hamlet 31
Havelock Walk Winter Weekend................................ 33
Herne Hill School .........................................................5
Interior & Exterior Painting & Decorating ................ 17
John @ James & Lamont: Painting & Decorating .... 17
Kingsdale Foundation School: Open Events .. 18 & 19
Pickwick Estates ................................................... Back
Portfolio Soaps: Handmade in Dulwich ......................7
Robert Cox French Polishing ..................................... 13
Rosemead Prepartory & Nursery School ................. 27
SE Magazines: Local Business Advertising 31
St Dunstan’s College 28 & 29
Sterling and Law ....................................................... 17
Steve Smith Accountants ...........................................7
T Rooney Heating ...................................................... 13
Unicornios y Dinosaurios Spanish Classes ...... 10 & 11
Village Books: Christmas Books ................................ 17
Winter Market Place 21
If you contact any of our advertisers, please do say you saw them in SE23. Thank you!
Next Issue - December | Copy Deadline - 15 November
If you would like to advertise in our next issue (or SE21 and SE22), you can download our rates from our website or just get in touch with Angela on 020 8693 9040. www.semagazines.co.uk
W i n d o w s h o p p i n g
