Bishopston Voice September 2023

Montpelier High School students

Lily, Temitayo, and Rosie celebrate A-level success with head of Year 13 Sophie Blything, left, and head Ben Spence. Results special: Pages 17-29

Late kick-off at the Mem

BRISTOL Rovers have started the 2023-24 football season with a reduced capacity at the Memorial Stadium.

The club had hoped to have a new South Stand in place at the ground in Filton Avenue by the time of their first home match, against Barnsley on August 12. But planning permission

has not yet been granted for the development, which will replace the temporary ‘tents’ removed at the end of last season.

Rovers issued a statement stating that ”due to issues outside of the club’s control”, the South Stand would not be ready, so season ticket holders would be relocated and tickets for away

Sparks fly over EV charging

Residents are calling for longer charging times to be permitted at Waitrose in Westbury Park for electric vehicle users

PAGE 8

'Help find my son's

killers'

A mother has made a powerful appeal for help to find the killers of her son, who was stabbed to death in St Paul's.

PAGE 7

fans limited.

More than 1150 comments have gone in to Bristol City Council about the scheme, with about 200 objections and the rest in support.

Some residents have raised concerns over work taking place without permission.

Full story: Page 3

turned down

A proposed 116-home retirement village on the site of the former St Christopher's School has been refused planning permission.

PAGE 11

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Residents cry foul as work on new stand at Mem starts without consent

HUNDREDS of fans have urged Bristol City Council to act quickly to allow Bristol Rovers to build a new South Stand at the Memorial Stadium.

The club put in a planning application for the development on April 11 but it was not validated until June 29, by which time neighbours had complained that work had begun without permission.

On the eve of the EFL season on August 2, Rovers issued a statement saying that “due to issues outside of the club’s control”, the South Stand would not be ready.

This meant that for the first home League One match against Barnsley on August 12, there were fans on only three sides of the ground, rather than the usual four.

The new stand will provide 3,414 seats and will enable the ground to return to its pre-Covid crowd capacity.

The club’s statement said: “As many of you will be aware, the club has pursued an ambitious plan to improve the facilities at the Mem and increase the number of seats heading into this season. This is following the recent reductions in the capacity of the terrace areas and a desire to increase the number of standard and disabled seating options, whilst getting the capacity back up to previous levels…

“We would like to apologise to both our supporters and those looking to attend from Barnsley for all of the inconvenience.

“Moving forward we will continue to review the situation on a match-by-match basis and update supporters as early as possible as to the plans for each fixture.

“The club is continuing to work with local residents and the local planning authority regarding this application.”

Ward councillor Emma Edwards, leader of the Green group on the council, has “called in” the application, meaning it will have to go before a planning committte. This led to Labour accusations of delaying tactics,

but Cllr Edwards, writing on Twitter/X, said she thought it would result in the scheme being dealt with more quickly.

In her online comment on the planning application, she said: “I believe the club need time to sort all of this out and do this properly.”

One resident of Alton Road told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that work had started in June and the club and the contractors had shown “lack of consideration for residents”.

“They’ve removed trees and shrubs, and they haven’t spoken to any of the residents about what they’re doing or planning to do. When it rains, all of the mud and dirt has just been running down our street, which obviously shouldn’t be happening. It’s a nightmare.”

People can comment on the plans on the council’s planning portal at the reference 23/01441/F.

As the Voice went to print, there were 1164 documents relating to the scheme, with about 200 objections. Many commenters said they were not against the stadium development but opposed work starting before permission had been granted.

One resident wrote: “There has not been sufficient consideration to the impact on the community and infrastructure from construction and the increased capacity. Beginning construction before even consulting neighbours

is a clear indication that any concerns will be ignored regardless.”

Another resident added: “Due process has not been followed. The development was under

way long before permission was sought. It has been a noisy process that has caused issues for neighbours. It would be a disappointment if due process were something that only has to be followed by individuals but not relevant to larger businesses.”

But hundreds of supporters said the works should be allowed to take place. Many pointed out that the Mem had been a sports ground for more than a century.

A spokesperson for Bristol City Council said: “A planning application is under consideration. The planning enforcement team have advised that works should not take place without the required planning permission in place.”

Includes reporting by Alex Seabrook LDRS

The site of the proposed work at the Memorial Stadium

Abbeyfield celebrates new show apartments

ON Saturday September 16, Abbeyfield House on Westbury Road, Henleaze, is celebrating its new show apartments with a community party and open afternoon.

With flats for 25 elderly people, the house is the largest of the Abbeyfield Bristol & Keynsham Society’s independent living homes. Residents rent either a one bedroom, or studio, flat and enjoy communal dining and social activities. There’s also the reassurance of a 24-hour team member, should a resident need some additional support.

Abbeyfield House has recently enjoyed a refurbishment, which included three fully furnished show

apartments. “I’m delighted with the house’s new look,” said manager, Suzanne McKenzie.

“Our residents are so friendly and sociable. They enjoy doing activities together, such as gardening or going on day trips, so an open afternoon, combined with a party, seems like a fitting way to celebrate the end of the redecoration”.

Doors open 12-4pm. If you, or someone you know, would like to find out more about life in Abbeyfield House, please come along and enjoy live music, a free BBQ and a tour of the new show apartments. Email e-mail@abbeyfield-bristol. co.uk or just turn up.

Harvest Fiesta and church service

ST Matthew's Church in Kingsdown will be celebrating harvest this year with a weekend of activities in September.

On Saturday September 23 is the Harvest Fiesta, with activities, refreshments and fun for all ages. On Sunday September 24 St Matthew's will hold an all-age service at 10.30am. All are welcome to either day - or both days!

St Matthew's has been awarded EcoChurch Silver Award (a national award scheme for churches) due to the church's care for the environment. Come and see their gardens, including a wildlife garden, and low-carbon heating system.

The church meets weekly at 10.30am on Sundays.

For more information about St Matthew's and the harvest weekend, please see the church website: www.stmatthews-bristol.org.uk.

Icelandic choir to visit St Alban's

THE choir of Víðistada Church from Iceland is giving a concert in St Alban's Church in Westbury Park on Friday September 29 at 7.30pm. The concert will also feature St Alban's Choir. The repertoire will include spiritual and secular choral music. The choir director is Sveinn Arnar Sæmundsson.

Family Food Action set for open day

FAMILY Food Action, which provides community support for Bristol families and children in food poverty is holding an open day at The Ardagh on Horfield Common on Tuesday September 19 from 10.30am to 1.30pm.Find out what they are doing to tackle food inequality.

Have your say on city's future

BRISTOL City Council is looking for feedback on the proposed strategies for the long-term regeneration of the city centre.

The draft City Centre Development and Delivery Plan (the Plan) sets out a vision for the future of the city centre and high-level principles to guide regeneration.

It also identifies key changes required in the coming years to the city centre streets and spaces and the way land is used for development.

With a focus on the Broadmead and Castle Park areas, the Plan sets out key changes that will help transform them into more inclusive, sustainable and connected places and create a green, safe and vibrant city centre.

Overall, the Plan will help ensure future investment, development and regeneration is co-ordinated.

In an introduction to the Plan, Mayor of Bristol Marvin Rees says: "The redevelopment

of our city must provide decent jobs and varied retail and contribute to tackling the challenge of Bristol’s housing crisis, all against a background of climate and ecological

emergency." Visit www.bristol.gov.uk/ ddp to read more about the Plan and to take part in the consultation visit the Ask Bristol website.

Dog show date

WARDS Solicitors hold their annual charity dog show on Sunday October 8, at the Avon Centre in Henbury, BS10, raising vital funds for Bristolbased youth charity 1625 Independent People.

Family fun activities include a prize raffle, prizes and treats for all, with 15 different classes to enter. £2 per class or £10 to enter as many as you like.

Tickets are free with class entry payable at the venue.

Chance to sing

A CHORAL workshop takes place at St Monica Trust, Bristol, BS9 3UN, on Saturday 9 September 2-4pm.

Join members of Bristol Bach Choir and enjoy an afternoon of singing Bach's Magnificat led by musical director David Bednall Registration, which includes music loan, is £10 online or by phone: 0117 214 0721

25 years of graft and grafting at orchard

THE Apple Day community celebration is the highlight of the year for members of Horfield Organic Community Orchard (HOCO). This year’s event takes place on Sunday 22 October and also celebrates the 25th anniversary of an extraordinary community food project.

HOCO are tenants of Horfield & District Allotment Association. In 1998 the association needed to make sure more than half their plots were actively cultivated. The orchard project began when Avon Organic Group (AOG) took over several abandoned plots on the margins of the Golden Hill allotment site. Members of AOG cleared a jungle of brambles and bindweed, and in the process rescued a number of fruit trees already on the plots, including apples, plums and a pear. Before planting new trees, the soil was improved with compost made from unsold vegetables collected from local businesses.

“The time, energy, and love

that have gone into our orchard is awesome,” says Shannon Smith, a member of HOCO since 2008. Shannon oversaw the changes that led to HOCO becoming an independent project in 2011. “The orchard is here today because of care given by hundreds of active members over the years, combined with support from the wider community. Tens of

thousands of visitors have come to our fundraising public events since 1998.”

The sale of young trees at Apple Day is a longstanding fundraiser for the orchard. When a fruit seed is planted, the tree that grows will not be the same as its parent. Fruit trees are reproduced by grafting young wood from a parent tree onto a

rootstock. Earlier this year HOCO members, who are volunteers, took part in several grafting workshops, and have looked after the baby trees since then.

“Caring for 70 tiny fruit trees is a huge responsibility,” says Shannon. “They need protection from extremes of temperature and wind, along with regular watering. It’s amazing to think that small saplings can grow into trees that have the potential to be fruitful for at least five decades. More than a thousand trees grafted for HOCO have been planted in gardens and allotments in Bristol and beyond. I wonder how many apples they’ve given?”

Pre-ordering trees is recommended. More information will be on the HOCO website in early September.

Please contact HOCO c/o the website to sign up for up-to-date information: www.communityorchard.org.uk

Phone: 0117 373 1587

'No more senseless bloodshed' – mother's knife death appeal

A MOTHER whose son died after being stabbed in St Paul’s has made a powerful plea for the community to come together to help find his killers.

Eddie King Muthemba Kinuthia, 19, was attacked in Grosvenor Road Triangle Park at about 11pm on Friday July 21.

Six people have been arrested since the stabbing but as the Voice went to print no one had been charged with Eddie’s murder.

Irene Muthemba told a news conference on August 10: “We all make mistakes sometimes but mistakes do not give anybody the right to end someone else’s life. To think that someone woke up and decided they have the right to rip our hearts wide open in a needless, senseless, shameless and cowardly act of violence is so distressing.

“I don’t have the capacity to hate them or even feel angry. I just feel incredibly sad for their souls. Whoever you are that did this, I feel incredibly sad for you, that your mothers, your fathers, your siblings, your close friends or your spouses and anyone else in your life now have to harbour, aid and abet a criminal.

“I’m appealing to your conscience, because someone out there must know something that can assist to get justice for Eddie. We can have a peaceful resolution. Because there’s already been enough senseless bloodshed.”

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Almond who is leading the investigation, urged anyone with information to come forward.

He said: “Everyone we’ve spoken to has praised Eddie’s friendliness and warmth and his

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death has had a profound impact on his family, friends and the community. We are determined to get justice for Eddie and answers for his family.”

Neighbourhood Inspector Serena Serjeant told the news conference Eddie’s death had had a massive impact on the community.

“Obviously I urge anyone that is scared to come and speak to us, and we can put reassurances in place. You know, the main thing for us is solving this crime and getting justice for Eddie’s family, and bringing those offenders to justice as well.”

Detectives want to hear from anyone who:

• was in contact with Eddie on Friday 21 July in person or by phone or social media

• was in the Grosvenor Road area of St Paul's between 10pm and

11.30pm on Friday 21 July

• saw a black electric motorbike, similar to a Sur-Ron electric trials bike, in the area at the time, with one or two riders. If you have any information which could help, call 101 quoting Operation Barclay.

Irene Muthemba with Eddie

It's the charge of the Westbury Park EV brigade!

PEOPLE in Westbury Park are urging Waitrose to extend the time limit on the electric vehicle charging points in its car park.

A group of residents who own EVs were initially delighted when the store took notice of their request for charging points and installed eight last year.

But their joy turned to dismay when they discovered these could only be used for one and half hours at a time – the period shoppers are allowed to use the car park. They say that most of the chargers are the cheaper, slower kind and need to be used for three or more hours.

The campaigners believe this is why it is rare for all the chargers to be in use at any one time. For example, at 11am on a Monday in August, only one vehicle was being charged.

Some users have already been issued with £70 fines for exceeding the 90-minute limit.

The campaigners, who have won the backing of Westbury Park Community Association, say that ownership of electric cars in the area is at least 3-4 per cent, even though many homes do not have off-road parking and trailing charging cables across pavements is illegal.

One of them said: “The WPCA area is well known for people with a high level of environmental concerns, so it seems clear to us that lack of local access to charging points is

discouraging more people from going electric; something that we should all be working towards.

“Being able to charge electric cars cheaply for a few hours, ideally overnight, is the obvious solution to this but the costly 90-minute-only limit at the Waitrose car park prevents this.”

Kevin Chidgey, chairman of the WPCA added: “It does not seem to us to be ‘rocket science’ to put in place some procedure whereby those charging their cars can get an exemption from the 90-minute limit.”

The Voice spoke to some users of the charging points, who agreed with the campaigners.

Kam Gorman, from St Andrew’s, said she had bought an electric vehicle just ten

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public chargers,” he said. “The 22kw chargers aren’t that useful. More fast chargers would be better.”

Mr Chidgey said Waitrose had told WPCA that “we are putting in more rapid chargers, which are quicker to charge than 'fast' chargers and should help future sites”.

days earlier and had been disappointed to find she was having to make repeat visits because of the short charging time and the lack of alternative chargers.

“I was here yesterday but have had to come back to charge it up before I drive to Devon. I am livid. I am trying to do the right thing by having an electric vehicle but I am having to drive round in circles to find chargers.”

Jonathan Jones, from Durdham Park, who drives an electric VW ID4 provided by his employers, was using the fast charger at Waitrose. He is unable to install a charger at home, even though his firm would pay, because it is a private road.

“It can be a hassle to find

But, he pointed out, these chargers were still not the long use ones and the store’s comment suggests that Waitrose does not intend to add them at the Westbury Park store.

Waitrose told the Voice that 90 minutes was the limit. A spokesman said: "We are offering a convenient way for customers to charge their cars with us while they shop. We're in the process of improving signage so customers can be absolutely sure about how long they're able to access these charge points."

Parking at Waitrose is managed by an external company. The limit is set at 90 minutes, although people with disabilities can request additional time via the customers service desk.

• What do you think about the charging time limit? Email news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

The fast charge point, right, and below, the bays

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In Redland this month...

Anti social behaviour

The Police have asked for our support in tackling a spate of anti social behaviour at the south end of Gloucester Rd by Elton Road and the supermarket. Syringes from drug use have been left in the phone box on many occasions, litter left, abusive behaviour and other problems have recurred.

We’re hoping Sainsburys will secure their property too as it has affected their own operations. BT have been contacted about dealing of drugs in their phone box but we’re not yet sure the part they are willing to play. We’ve got the council’s own street scene enforcement team involved and we’re trying to make sure a coordinated, multi-agency response is being followed.

Future of our parks

The September Communities Scrutiny mtg [5pm on 14th in City Hall] will look at a draft Parks and Green Spaces Strategy. It's also emerged that this will now incorporate the draft Allotments and Food Growing strategy and, we have been told, the Crematorium and Cemeteries strategy too. They will then go out for consultation. There will also be a report on parks funding to look into the various sources of money versus costs of the service. The meeting will also look at progress with the Trees and woodlands strategy being

prepared.

There should be advance reports published on the council website for all these items and there are likely to be all sorts of issues raised in the meeting.

There’s time for Public Forum at the meeting if any parks groups or residents have statements for the committee or questions in advance that officers will prepare answers for.

Committee Model Update

Greens have been part of the crossparty working group designing the new model of governance for the city when we scrap the position of Mayor in May 2024. Councillors have voted on adopting the first round of recommendations from the working group.

The Mayor and Cabinet will be replaced by eight policy committees, responsible for making decisions about how the city’s public services are run. These are to be based on the council’s adopted strategy which can be changed from time to time and the details are summarised on the council website.

Greens on the working group have been pushing for more power to be given to local communities beyond our limited, current Area Committee structure, and there is now a sub-group looking at how these could look in the future system and what might be changed. The threshold for petitions to be debated in a

new policy committee has been lowered to 1000 signatures.

The meetings of the Committee Model Working Group are monthly and can be found on the council website.

A second round of community engagement events is also planned later in the year.

Street Corner Protection

Issues have regularly come up about road safety and access problems with street corners being blocked by parked cars. This has affected children going to school and service vehicles unable to access some streets for recycling collections.

We’re trying to get assistance with this, especially now the Mayor has said he is ‘reviewing’ parking schemes as they ‘don’t work’. This is after he had them all reviewed in his first term but made no changes after finding they all have majority support.

We’re not sure what this new policy might mean, and he refused to say what the process will now be when he announced this in a recent Cabinet meeting when permit fees for parking were raised.

We know all the RPS areas have a clear majority support from residents and most parking problems are in the streets just outside the areas where parking is being managed.

Requests for new areas have been refused after the Mayor said some years ago that any change

has to have 'overwhelming support' but would not say how this could be measured. Getting corners protected with double yellow lines and having the lines enforced both come at a cost including significant legal fees to create new highway rules but we’re trying to find ways to make progress despite budgets being very stretched.

St Christopher's redevelopment

The controversial redevelopment at the former special needs school site in Westbury Park into an ‘extra care’ housing development has been rejected at planning committee. The site opens into The Glen in Redland ward. There were over 1300 public comments, almost all opposed to the development. The committee were recommended by officers to reject the proposals on two grounds: overdevelopment, with too many large additional buildings, and loss of trees and biodiversity. The committee supported these and did not agree to add additional issues including parking and loss of special educational needs provision. The future of the site may now change.

Contacts:

Fi: Cllr.fi.hance@bristol.gov.uk. 0117 3534720

Martin: Cllr.martin.fodor@bristol. gov.uk. 0788 4736101 Facebook.com/cllrmartin.fodor or / cllrfi.hance

Workplace parking levy plan dropped

A PLAN for a workplace parking levy has been dropped due to inflation and a lack of “funding and ambition” for a mass transit system. Mayor Marvin Rees said “now is not the time” to create further costs for drivers struggling with the cost-of living crisis.

Details of the workplace parking levy plan were published on Monday, August 7, after a judge ordered Bristol City Council to publish its report into how it could work. The report found a levy could raise millions every year to invest in the city’s public transport network. Businesses would be charged for every employee parking at work, in a bid to encourage commuters to use public transport and cut congestion and pollution. A levy in Nottingham introduced a decade ago has raised more than £83 million for improving public transport.

Writing on his blog, Mr Rees said: “With high inflation during a national cost of living crisis, now is not the time to create more costs for people. Others will say that today is an ideal moment to hit teachers, nurses and other Bristolians parking at schools, hospitals and other workplaces in central Bristol for hundreds of pounds, if not more. They are wrong.

“Bristol has in recent years, like the rest of the world, seen major changes in working patterns during and following the pandemic. These patterns will also have been impacted by the introduction of the Clean Air Zone, for which our administration recently secured another £11 million to help people and businesses upgrade to compliant vehicles.

“A study was done into the idea of a

workplace parking levy, which is lacking any modelling incorporating those major factors for its potential effectiveness. It remains incomplete and — with the current stalling of the funding and ambition to take a mass transit system forward — we have no plans to introduce this charge.”

The council initially commissioned the report, at a cost of £30,000, in 2021 as a potential option for funding upgrades to Bristol’s public transport network. Since then the council has been battling a freedom of information request, made by Green Councillor Ed Plowden on the grounds that it was informing policy development and part of a wider piece of work, which was yet to be published.

By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service

'Insensitive' plans for site rejected

RESIDENTS face a wait to find out the future of the former St Christopher’s School site in Westbury Park.

Two years after proposals for a luxury retirement village were unveiled, councillors voted in August to reject the plans, which were criticised as overdevelopment.

The developers, Fore Partnership, have six months to decide whether to appeal against the committee decision. Alternatively, they could put forward a revised version of the 116-home extra care development, consider a different use for the five-acre site bordering The Downs, or try to sell it to another developer.

Speaking to the Architects’ Journal, FORE Partnership managing partner Basil Demeroutis said: “We’ve worked hard on this scheme for two years and still believe in its core strengths, which were

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acknowledged by a number of the committee members.

“We are deeply disappointed that the full benefits of this much-needed development — which tackles the climate crisis head on, supports Bristol’s net zero targets and provides urgently needed housing for the city — were not fully recognised. While we do not believe that the refusal accurately reflects the true potential and merits of our

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Campaigners outside City Hall, where they attended the planning committee meeting at which councillors voted to reject the plans

proposal, we respect the process and will now take time as a team to consider our next steps.”

Jeff Bishop, from Westbury Park Community Association, which opposed the scale of the proposed development, told the Voice: “Let’s hope the developers have the common sense not to appeal, otherwise we’ll all be living with the uncertainty for at least another year.”

St Christopher’s Action

Network (SCAN), in a statement after the committee meeting, said: “We are delighted with the sensible decision to reject the insensitive plans for St Christopher’s.

“The developers behind these plans were always interested in profit ... not people. They never showed any real interest in discovering what the community thought, and they cared even less about the rudiments of good design and the importance of developing a landscape-led, sustainable solution for this wonderful site. Their oversized, overcrowded, and overbearing plans show this clearly. We know much better is possible!”

Until it closed in 2020, St Christopher’s was an independent school for children with special needs and disabilities (SEND) and SCAN wants to see the site used again for SEND provision, which is much needed in Bristol.

Victory? Not for our young people

I LIVE in St Andrews and my two children, now 20 and 18, attended Cotham School from Year 7 to NBP16 Year 13. During this time, they have had to be bused to Stoke Lodge playing fields, or previous to that Coombe Dingle, which is out of catchment and out of the Bishopston Voice catchment of Bishopston, Redland and St Andrews.

So I was surprised to see a front page article of 'Campaigners win Town Green battle' for a place, Stoke Lodge and feel the title should be ‘Cotham School loses safe and secure playing fields’. It is not a 'victory' for our/my local school and will probably mean the school will have to pay a substantial sum of money every year to use Coombe Dingle playing fields (which it has done in the past) - a cost that as Jo Butler [headteacher] states "will have serious consequences for the operation of the school". What that actually means is hard to say but reduced teachers, fewer resources comes to mind - all to the

detriment of local school children.

It is obvious We Love Stoke Lodge is a well organised, time a plenty, group of determined activists - no match for an inner city school which focuses on education rather than campaigning and PR. And obviously the city council who have flip flopped on their commitment to playing fields for Cotham School.

To end, I feel this is unfortunately, not positive for Bishopston, Redland or St Andrews residents - it will probably mean a poorer education service for us all, which is not the outcome either side probably wished for.

Andrea Stott

School needs safe playing fields

MY children went to Cotham School, and we received a cri du coeur (via email) from the new head asking if any parents could assist with this issue about six years ago. I replied saying that I could provide assistance. What was my advice?

Cotham School needs sports fields. This is an inner urban school

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that absolutely needs to provide young inner-city children with the wonderful benefits of exercise.

Bristol City Council agreed, and suggested that Cotham School take a lease on land they owned –Stoke Lodge Playing Fields.

A lease was drawn up and agreed (as far as I understand; signed, sealed and ratified).

The local dog walkers mounted a campaign group, saying that they had always had the right to walk over the playing fields. The Landlord (BCC) and the tenant (Cotham School) acquiesced, and created a thoroughfare for the dog walkers. The ‘We Love Stoke Lodge’ campaign group continued their objection, irrespective of the fact that the land was never a village green, but had instead always been used as playing fields.

This has rattled on for over six years, and Cotham School have had huge outlay in fencing the playing fields (for obvious health and safety reasons) and then huge legal fees in fighting a single interest group determined to exercise their rights to exercise their dogs.

Bristol City Council own the land, and BCC granted a lease to Cotham School to use the land

as playing fields. The local action group opposed the dedicated use of the land for school children to exercise, and now Bristol City Council Rights of Way and Greens Committee have voted in favour of Town Green Status.

So, we have four parties involved here:

Bristol City Council: Issued a lease over the subject land, and then faded away as soon as a problem arose.

Cotham School: Entered into a lease, but was unable to untangle the problem in the face of belligerent opposition.

Stoke Lodge self interest group: Have won the battle (at some cost they tell us).

Bristol City Council Rights of Way and Greens Committee: Recently made a decision to make the land a village green, but surely they must have know that BCC owned the land, and that they had issued a lease to Cotham School.

No one comes out of this covered in glory, but in my opinion, the tenant has a right to seek redress from the landlord (subject to reading the lease, natch).

Peter Caldwell MRICS

Youth campaigners demand better buses

COMMUNITY and activist groups will be marching on Saturday September 9 to demand a better bus network for the West of England.

Led by two youth climate groups, Bristol Youth Strike 4 Climate (BYS4C) and Extinction Rebellion Youth Bristol (BYS4C), the coalition will be holding a rally at 1pm on College Green. A march will then proceed through the city centre at 2pm, finishing at the combined authority offices in Redcliff.

BYS4C and XRYB are demanding the following:

• Free - for under 25s, students, and apprentices

• Fair - access for riders and conditions for drivers

• Franchised - for people not profit.

The campaigners say that we need to take public control of our local buses through ‘franchising‘. With a franchised bus network, local governments would decide routes, timetables, and fares. Bus companies would compete to operate routes would have to meet the criteria set out by the local/combined authority.

This would prevent cuts to routes and frequency, help reduce fares, integrate different companies’ routes and tickets, and hold bus operators to account.

In the Greater Bristol/Bath area, this could be done by the West of England Combined Authority (WECA), led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris.

Bristol-based student Sam, 20, said: “Our local buses are in a dire state. Dozens of route cuts have also isolated some people without cars from local services, education, jobs, and socialising, especially in rural areas, affecting the young, elderly, and working classes.

" On top of this, young person and student fares have continued to rise, despite a cap on adult fares.

"It’s time we took the common sense step of delivering a bus network that works for all our communities, with public control being the best way of achieving this goal.”

Youth climate activist Josh, 18, said: “We all know that we’re in a climate emergency, with all the local authorities in the Bristol/Bath area committed to net-zero by 2030, but we also face a significant challenge with air pollution locally.

"That means a large shift towards public transport, walking, and cycling is needed, but to do that we need a reliable, cheap, and sustainable alternative to driving.

"Our current bus system doesn’t deliver that, with delays, cancellations, and route cuts being all too common.”

Local campaigner Hannah, 22, said: “Public control works well for London and is being adopted by both Manchester and Wales - we need Metro Mayor Dan Norris to take action now to fix our broken buses.”

Nursery's staff struggle

A NURSERY boss has spoken out over the struggle to recruit staff. Samantha Packer, director of the Daisychain Nursery in Clifton, told Bristol Schools Forum in July that the early years sector was facing tough times.

Demand for places for preschoolers is high but increased government funding for “free” provision does not cover the costs. This is likely to worsen with the planned expansion of childcare entitlement.

Speaking about the impact of the proposed changes and the current issues, Ms

Packer said: “A situation that many of us face at the moment is — and I’m going to use myself as an example — we’re 60 per cent full with a waiting list of children, who we can’t take because of staffing. We have just taken some measures to improve that, we’ve taken the route of sponsorship licences. I think it

Ofsted: St Bon's remains Good

could help many of us with our recruitment.”

Companies struggling to hire staff can sponsor visas for new recruits coming from abroad.

Simon Holmes, headteacher of St Philip’s Marsh Nursery School, told the meeting: “We’re already having parents coming in and registering for what they’re expecting the new entitlement to be next year, from what was promised by the government. We don’t really have any information to give to people on that. It’s all a bit unclear.

“There’s obviously a big issue around sufficiency going forwards, if the offer is extended to the degree that it’s been promised. While the uplift in funding is very welcome, most nurseries are struggling to balance the books and not have an in-year deficit.

By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service

PUPILS at St Bonaventure’s Catholic Primary School in Bishopston receive an education that helps them grow to be confident and curious.

That’s the verdict of an Ofsted inspection in June that confirmed that St Bon;’s continues to be a Good school.

“Leaders have developed an education that is based upon the school’s strong vision and values. They are ambitious for all pupils,” the report said.

“Relationships across the school are warm and supportive. Parents feel valued and are included in all aspects of their children’s education. Leaders have created a sense of community and shared responsibility.

“Spirituality underpins the work of the school. Pupils reflect on their own faith and that of others through links with the local church and in-school prayer stations.

The inspector, Steph Matthews, said leaders had designed a curriculum that was broad and aspirational for all pupils. They had identified three themes, love thy neighbour, seek the truth and caring for our common home, which underpinned pupils’ learning.

She said that to improve further, the school should ensure that its curriculum was well sequenced in all areas and that assessment in all subjects enabled teachers to identify what pupils know and modify their teaching accordingly.

Housing Forums for

Bristol council tenants – get involved!

Afternoon:

Thursday 7 September, 1–3pm

Evening: Tuesday 19 September , 6–8pm

Your opinions help us make decisions!

For September 2023, we are hosting online meetings focussing on issues we know matter most to tenants.

● Come along and hear about the ongoing work we are doing to ensure fire safety for residents in our high rise blocks of flats and how we have been engaging with residents. Find out about our plans for future engagement and how you can help us develop our approach.

● We will also be sharing an update on improvements we have been making to communal areas, and you can find out how to suggest changes you would like to see in your area.

● Places must be booked, you can do this online at: www.bristol.gov.uk/LocalHousingForums

● If you are not online but would like to take part, there is also a free dial-in option which you can join using your phone. For more information about how you can access the meetings contact Tenant Participation 0117 352 1444 or email  tpu@bristol.gov.uk

Pupils are happy, but school must do better

BRISTOL Steiner School in Redland has been downgraded by Ofsted following an inspection.

The small independent school was judged as Requires Improvement overall, although it was said to be Good for pupils’ personal development and their behaviour and attitudes. In 2019 it was rated Good overall.

The school, which has 73 pupils aged three to 11, wants to extend its upper age limit to 14, but the two inspectors said its leaders did not currently have the capacity to do this.

The Ofsted team, who visited on June 13-15, acknowledged that headteacher Lorraine Swords, the proprietor Waldorf School (Bristol) Ltd and other leaders had in recent times ”needed to resolve a number of complicated issues relating to the school’s operational systems, staffing and curriculum.”

“Leaders are working with success to bring about steady school-wide

n ADVERTORIAL

improvement,” their report said. This included new policies, higher expectations of pupils’ behaviour and academic achievements, a revamped curriculum and a whole-school assessment system.

Ofsted noted that pupils felt happy and safe and were proud to attend the school, and that parents and carers were very positive.

“There is a strong family feel at this small, inclusive school. Pupils enjoy drawing, weaving, woodwork, forest school and extra-curricular activities such as chess club.

“In the main school, pupils usually learn a broad range of subjects. However, over time, some pupils have not learned everything they should have. Some gaps in pupils’ knowledge persist. In the kindergarten, many children enjoy the regular daily rhythm, with a blend of childled and teacher-led activities. However, the experiences children have in kindergarten vary in quality.”

We have a laugh together

Macmillan Buddies Story: Linny (volunteer) and Jan

When Macmillan buddy volunteer, Linny Josham, first met her buddy, Jan, they hit it off. “Within five minutes of being introduced and chatting, I felt at ease,” says Linny.

“The best thing about being a Macmillan buddy is that once a week for a couple of hours I chat with, laugh with, and share experiences of life with a brave, determined woman. What’s not to like?”

Laughter is at the root of why Linny’s support has been such a success.

“We laugh so much and discuss so many topics. She’s a good person. She doesn’t give unwanted sympathy. She’s just very supportive,” says Jan. They even laughed when Jan told Linny about a near miss – her friend accidently let her roll down the hill in her wheelchair when bringing her home from hospital!

Jan lives in Lawrence Weston. She was referred to the Macmillan Buddies service after visiting the Macmillan NGS Wellbeing Centre at Southmead Hospital. She was first diagnosed with Lymphoma six years ago and then early in 2023, she found herself admitted to hospital with a tumour in her lung.

She has been supported weekly by her Macmillan buddy volunteer, Linny from Totterdown. While Jan’s been going through her chemotherapy, Linny’s weekly visits at home have been invaluable. Macmillan Buddy volunteers offer a listening ear and support people living with cancer at what is a really challenging time.

“Giving time brings so many rewards,” says Linny. “I get to spend a few hours a week with someone who is positive and resilient in everything she faces.”

Jan’s also had a positive experience: “I really have benefited so much from Linny’s visits. I feel she has supported me so much. Her kindness and care is totally appreciated.”

Macmillan is looking for more volunteers to join Linny and our Bristol team. If you’re a good listener and clear communicator we’d love to hear from you. To find out more visit https://www.macmillan.org.uk/volunteering/macmillan-buddies or call 07866 202537

The school aims to provide a curriculum that is in keeping with Steiner education principles. The inspectors said the children enjoy the specialist curriculum on offer.

“A highlight for many pupils is eurythmy, which is an art of expression, involving stylized movement in response to music. They say it develops their coordination, physical and mental fitness and inner confidence.”

The Ofsted report, published on August 16, also said children were well taught about equalities and diversity, including the protected characteristics and there was a strong focus on teaching about seasonal and cultural festivals.

But they said improvements were needed in the implementation of the curriculum in the main school, support for children with special educational needs, teachers’ subject knowledge and the quality of children's experience in the school's kindergarten.

10 PAGES OF EXAMS COVERAGE STARTS HERE

Brilliant! Badminton celebrates

BADMINTON School students are looking forward to the future after receiving their A-level results. With nearly half of all grades at A-A* level and a 100% pass rate, over half of all students celebrated a hattrick of A-A* grades.

Three pupils have secured Oxbridge places studying Biomedical Sciences, Psychology, and Music.

Badminton prides itself on developing students' individual strengths, and this year’s A-level cohort are going on to study a variety of subjects, from Law to Graphic Design, Dentistry to Computer Science, Chinese to Fashion and Business & Management.

Meghna achieved four A* grades alongside her other

commitments and said: “I am thrilled with my A Level results and I’m excited to be heading to Imperial to study Medical Biosciences. I have loved my time in the Sixth Form at Badminton, enjoying the fun sides of the Classics Society and my role as Head Girl, whist studying A Levels along the way!”

Julia, who is pursuing Psychological and Behavioural Sciences at Cambridge, comments: ‘My time at Badminton has provided me with solid preparation for the university application process. In addition to my A-level studies, I had a great time participating in the Psychology Club and volunteering at a local primary school.’.

Badminton School’s recently appointed Head, Jessica Miles, was delighted with the success of this year’s cohort: “For a year group who were perhaps more affected than any other by the disruption caused to their education by the pandemic, not least because they missed the experience of sitting their GCSEs, they can hold their heads high and take real pride in these results.

"In my short time here, I have witnessed this year group’s excellent work ethic and I have also seen a group of young women who are fun, kind, brave and clearly ready to move on to the next stage of their academic journeys, whether that be studying Neuroscience at Nottingham or Civil

Engineering at Imperial. I know that they would want to join me in thanking all the staff at Badminton who have supported, inspired and encouraged them during their time here.”

Sixth

Wide horizons for Redmaids' High students

REDMAIDS’ High School says its A-level results are a reflection of its longstanding commitment to academic excellence and supporting students in their personal and pastoral development.

In the exams, 61.6 per cent of grades were achieved at A* or A; 84.7 per cent A*-B, 95.3 per cent A*-C and 100 per cent A*-D.

Seven students achieving all A* grades, while 42 per cent achieved all A* or As.

Director of sixth form Lisa Moyle said: “The fantastic A-level results this year are a true testament to the dedication, adaptability and extraordinary resilience of our students. These public exams have been their first, and I couldn’t be prouder of their ability to rise to the challenge, work hard and do so well.”

The vast majority of students have secured places at their first-choice universities. Some are looking forward to a focus

Senior - 7 October

on the environment, including Inessa, who will now pursue her interests with Earth and Planetary Sciences, and Molly who is following her passion for Marine Geography. Others are going on to study a language at a higher level; Hermione with Modern and Medieval Languages at Girton College, Cambridge University, Rebecca with German and Linguistics at New College, University of Oxford, and Téa with Modern Languages and Economics at the University

of Warwick.

Beyond the more traditional university routes, the school is also celebrating students taking on other exciting pathways, such as Evie who will soon begin her Accountancy Degree Apprenticeship, Olivia and Cecilia, who will be attending Drama School having achieved 100% in their performance components, and

More students than ever are looking forward to their planned enriching gap year adventures, exploring different cultures and landscapes across the globe.

Mrs Moyle continued, “This year group’s final grades, together with the diverse opportunities awaiting them, speak volumes about their confidence and determination to be who they want to be and for that I am most proud. “I will miss them all greatly, but I know they are more than ready for their next chapter as they begin to make their mark in this

world and I am so excited for what their promising futures will bring.”

The school’s head, Mr Paul Dwyer, commented, “I am exceptionally proud of our students' outstanding performance in this year's A-levels. These results are a culmination of their unwavering dedication, inspired passion and the exemplary support from our teaching staff and wider school community.

“Our students have not only met the challenges presented to them, but have consistently exceeded our expectations. As they embark on exciting new beginnings, I am confident that they will carry forward the spirit and values they've developed here at Redmaids’ High, making a positive and significant impact wherever they go. I congratulate each and every one of our students for their remarkable achievements and wish them all the very best for their future.”

Sixth Form - 12 October

Junior - 4 November

n EDUCATION

'Exam stress' turns out to be heart condition

WHEN Rosie Gwyther became ill at school just before her mock exams, she thought it was stress - but it turned out to be an undiagnosed heart condition.

The student at Montpelier High School’s co-educational sixth form V6 had to undergo two operations before her A-levels, the first formal exams she had ever taken.

She emerged with an A in Sociology, Bs in Psychology and Geography and A* in her Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and is off t0 the University of Gloucestershire to train as a primary school teacher.

Rosie said: “I thought it was just a panic attack but my heart went crazy and I had to be rushed from school to the Bristol Heart Institute. It was quite scary. My teachers have been absolutely amazing in supporting me."

Rosie's mum Kate Gwyther said the family had had no idea about the heart condition.

“We are beyond proud of her. Her resilience and determination has not faltered throughout the two years. We really did not know what to expect for her results because she had not sat exams before but she has done brilliantly.’

Shayni Wickmaratne, from Shirehampton, was another student who

battled health problems during her studies. A lifelong asthma sufferer, she experienced lung problems after having Covid and missed several months of her first year at V6, which she joined from St Bede’s Catholic College.

Animal lover Shayni achieved A grades in Maths and Biololgy and a B in Chemistry and will study Veterinary Science at the University of Bristol.

Malou Brown, who achieved A grades in History, Politics and Spanish, will read Law at the University of Oxford. Malou, from Easton, who joined MHS in Year 9, said: “It has been hard because of all the different

disruptions but I had great teachers who helped me through. I have always wanted to study Law and I am looking forward to starting at Mansfield College.”

More than one in five grades awarded at MHS/V6 was an A or A*, while overall outcomes were broadly in line with 2019, the last pre-Covid figures.

Other notable successes include: Shumaila Muhammad (A*A*A); Philomena Murray (A*A*A); Abbie Clark (A*A*B); Maddie Britton (A*AAA); Rosa Bridges (A*AA) ; Farida Awil (AAB); Francesca Brocklebank (AAB); Nell Eustace (AAB); Maryam Hamrouni (AB,Distinction); Hazel Porter (AAB); Anya Reid (AAB).

Caroline McClean, Vice Principal and Head of Sixth Form, said: “We’re delighted to be celebrating the excellent achievements of our students today, many of whom have secured university places at impressive destinations. Their attainment is especially impressive as a cohort who experienced considerable disruption to their learning due to Covid and did not sit formal GCSE examinations. I am equally proud of those students who have made considerable progress in the sixth form, some of them in the face of adversity.”

Rosie Gwyther on results day

QEH scores highly

QEH celebrated strong A-level results, which compared well pre-pandemic statistics.

Twenty five students achieved straight A* / A grades with a number of those being straight A*s. The vast majority of students also gained places at their chosen universities.

Many students chose to undertake the additional Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) alongside their A-level studies and this year’s EPQ results were outstanding. A strong EPQ grade is highly thought of by universities as it is a self-directed qualification, meaning students are responsible for managing their own time and resources. A valuable experience that will help them at university and in the workplace.

Rupert Heathcote, Head of QEH, said: “We are extremely proud of the students and their achievements, both on results

day, and throughout their years at QEH. They should rightly celebrate all the hard work they have put in; it was wonderful to see so many delighted students and parents. I would also like to thank the QEH staff for all the support and guidance they have given the students, both inside and outside the classroom.

“I have very much enjoyed getting to know all this cohort during their time at QEH, whether that has been two years or 11, and I sincerely hope they will all stay connected to the school via our Elizabethan Society.”

A sixth form parent said: "I believe attending QEH has significantly improved my daughter's life. QEH has helped her grow in confidence and character, as well as academically. Teachers and support staff have guided my daughter to develop her true potential."

at NBP16

NORTH Bristol Post 16 Centre recorded a strong set of A-level results this year as students overcame the challenges of the ‘postCovid’ era.

Directors Aimi Potter (Cotham School) and Owen Tiplady (Redland Green School) said: “We could not be more proud of this year group. Against a national backdrop of uncertainty and disruption they have worked hard with their teachers to achieve amazing results.

"As always, we also celebrate the immeasurable personal achievements of our young people over the past two years. This cohort of students leaves us not only with their hard earned qualifications, but also a developed and confident sense of themselves and their place in the world.

"Every set of grades represents a personal challenge overcome, from our seven students who move on to Oxford and Cambridge Universities, to those moving into competitive apprenticeships in law, business and engineering - everyone has something to be proud of".

RGS head Ben Houghton added: "This was a year group whose secondary school education was significantly impacted due to the Covid pandemic and for them to achieve the results they have done is testament to their hard work and perseverance.

"Well over half of all grades achieved by RGS students were at a B or above which is stark contrast to the national trend for a drop in students achieve top grade passes this year.

"Being part of the North Bristol Post 16 gives our students the advantage being able to study a wide range of courses across two high performing secondary schools."

n MEET THE HEAD

St Katherine’s is a thriving, diverse school community that has educated students from all over Bristol for many years.

ST Katherine’s is a thriving, diverse school community that has educated students from all over Bristol for many years.

Year 7 students from over 40 primary schools are joining us this September. So why do so many parents and carers choose St Katherine’s for their child’s secondary education?

Year 7 students from over 50 primary schools are joining us this September. So why do so many parents and carers choose St Katherine’s for their child’s secondary education?

Message from Justin Humphreys, Head of St Katherine’s School

I believe it’s because our approach is based on the principle that, as individuals, we all perform at our best when we feel confident, secure and valued.

I believe it’s because our approach is based on the principle that, as individuals, we all perform at our best when we feel confident, secure and valued.

Along with my committed team, I am passionate about giving every student an environment where they feel safe and happy so they can achieve their full potential and pursue their dreams. We do this through our exceptional pastoral care and absolute commitment to wellbeing which makes St Katherine’s such a happy, thriving school.

We take full advantage of St Katherine’s size to create a friendly atmosphere where every child is well known and cared for as an individual.

Along with my committed team, I am passionate about giving every student an environment where they feel safe and happy so they can achieve their full potential and pursue their dreams. We do this through our exceptional pastoral care and absolute commitment to wellbeing which makes St Katherine’s such a happy, thriving school.

We take full advantage of St Katherine’s size to create a friendly atmosphere where every child is well known and cared for as an individual.

Like our students, our staff are energetic, passionate and committed professionals, who stretch and challenge our young people both inside and outside of the classroom - we all learn something new everyday and it enriches and improves us all.

Like our students, our staff are energetic, passionate and committed professionals, who stretch and challenge our young people both inside and outside of the classroom - we all learn something new everyday and it enriches and improves us all.

Besides our track record of academic success - our GCSE, A level and vocational subject results continue to reach new heights, securing pathways for all our young people. Our curriculum is broad, including our co-curricular offer shaped around SKYwards - St

Besides our track record of academic success - our GCSE, A level and vocational subject results continue to reach new heights, securing pathways for all our young people - our curriculum is broad, including our co-curricular

Katherine’s Youth Award designed to ensure everyone enjoys new experiences, helping them develop into young adults equipped socially and academically to take on the opportunities and challenges of life.

offer shaped around SKYwards - St Katherine’s Youth Award designed to ensure everyone enjoys new experiences, helping them develop into young adults equipped socially and academically to take on the opportunities and challenges of life.

Above all, a St Katherine’s education is busy, inspiring, ambitious and great fun!

Above all, a St Katherine’s education is busy, inspiring, ambitious and great fun!

Come along to our September open evening (details below) to experience it for yourself. You and your child are guaranteed a warm welcome.

Come along to our September open evening (details below) to experience it for yourself. You and your child are guaranteed a warm welcome.

So well deserved

STUDENTS at St Katherine’s have achieved a great set of outcomes across both academic and vocational pathways.

Great progress has been made by the students with many individual successes.

A spokesman said: "Students deserve this personal success, reflecting their dedication and we celebrate this success together, with teachers who are rightly proud of the achievements within their classes.

"The results that students have received reflect their commitment and dedication to their studies, resulting in many students securing their first choice future pathway. Students are successfully progressing onto Russell Group universities, apprenticeships and great employment opportunities and we wish every one of our students much success on the next stage of their journey.

"Let us all remind ourselves our students are much more than a grade. They are all exceptional, inspiring, and talented young people and we couldn’t be prouder of each one of our students. A sincere thank you to the teaching staff and colleagues at St Katherine’s for their professionalism and compassion in tirelessly working in the best interests of our students."

Ten BCCS students win Oxbridge places

BRISTOL Cathedral Choir School headteacher Joseph Thurston offered a 'huge congratulations' to the Year 13 leavers at the school.

Mr Thurston said the students realised a very impressive set of results.

Highlights include:

39 per cent A*-A

41 students with three As or better

10 Oxbridge places confirmed

17 Medicine/Veterinary Science/ Dentistry confirmed

"We wish all of our leavers the best for their futures," Mr Thurston added.

Winning formula

SGS College sixth-formers are celebrating a strong set of results in A-levels and BTECs, with an impressive 70% of students attaining grades A*-C.

Many students made outstanding progress at the college in Filton. Notable successes were seen in Maths (40% A*/A), Further Maths (67%A*/A) and Criminology (93% A*-C), with A*s across many other subjects. The overall pass rates were also strong, with (98%) achieving their full qualifications. There was also excellent performance in the newest BTEC course, Forensics and Criminal Investigations, with six from 10 achieving Distinctions.

Sixteen students achieved all A*s and As and many are poised to enter Russell Group universities.

SGS Sixth students pursue a range of extracurricular activities, with access to over 30 Academies and professional-level sports facilities. This has bred success stories such as Isobel Patel, who has secured a professional contract at Western Storm and has dreams of becoming one of the country’s leading female cricket players. She leaves college having achieved A*, A, B in PE, Biology and Chemistry and is studying Sport and Medical Science.

Thursday 28th September

stkaths.org.uk/admissions

Trinity Academy, Romney Avenue, Bristol, BS7 9BY

Tuesday 19th September

Thursday 28th September

Music Aptitude Test

Saturday 30th September

trinityacademybristol.org/admissions

Bristol Cathedral Choir School, College Square, Bristol, BS1 5TS

Thursday 14th September

Thursday 21st September

Music Aptitude Test

Saturday 30th September

bccs.bristol.sch.uk/admissions

Clifton College has lots to cheer

CLIFTON College saw some excellent A-level results, with 76 per cent of grades at A*-B.

Head of School, Tom achieved four A*s and is going off to Sydney, Australia, to take a gap year working in a school, before studying Medicine at Exeter University the following year. He said he will miss everything about Clifton College and couldn’t have done it without all the support he received throughout his academic journey.

Alex, Deputy Head of School, also achieved four A*s in Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Chemistry and is looking forward to studying Engineering at Cambridge University after a

gap year in Hamburg doing an internship with the renewable energy company, RWE.

Kei Ki, Deputy Head of School, achieved two A*s and 2 As and has been accepted to study Veterinary Science at her first choice of Edinburgh University.

Ella achieved two A*s in Maths and English and an A grade in Ancient Greek, and is excited to study Philosophy and Modern Greek at her first choice of Oxford University.

Max will be going to Exeter College, Oxford to study Chemistry after achieving three

A*s in Chemistry, Maths and Physics.

Ruby achieved a Distinction in her Music Tech BTEC and is going on to do a Commercial Songwriting course at The Academy of Contemporary Music.

Deputy Head Academic, Dr Gavin Turner said, “I would like to offer my congratulations to all our pupils that have received their A Level and BTEC results. There is much to celebrate in terms of success and achievement at all levels,“These pupils now leave our doors to go on to their next challenges, and it

has been hugely rewarding for us to support them in achieving their personal best.Nick Mills, Head of Sixth Form, said, “Seeing our leavers achieving their grade offers and getting into their universities of choice is always a wonderful moment. Very well done to all of them.”

Head of College, Dr Tim Greene said, “I warmly congratulate all our pupils. This success which sits alongside all that they have achieved during their time at the College is down to each individual pupil’s hard work, determination and the support from their teachers. ”

National education charity, Action Tutoring, works to level the playing field by offering free maths and English tutoring to disadvantaged pupils in Bristol and the surrounding areas.

Are you interested in volunteering, getting more involved in your local community, or doing something a little different with your time?

By volunteering as a tutor for just one hour a week at a local school, or online, you can give vital academic support to pupils whose families couldn't otherwise afford it.

It’s a fun and rewarding way to spend your time and no previous teaching or tutoring experience is required. Action Tutoring provide

Children from lower-income families are less likely to achieve academically than their better-off peers

Collegiate's Class of 23 set for bright future

STUDENTS, staff and parents are celebrating following an excellent set of academic and vocational results achieved by Collegiate Upper Sixth Formers.

As anticipated, public examination results for this summer’s cohort have been shifted back towards the pre-pandemic level achieved by candidates in 2019. The headline figures make for very encouraging reading:

42% of A-level grades were awarded at A/A*

73% of A-level grades were awarded at A*/B

54% of CTEC and BTEC grades were awarded at Starred Distinction / Distinction (the equivalent of A*/A at A Level

19 students (25 per cent of the cohort) achieved the equivalent of AAA or better

89% of university applicants secured their first-choice university courses

Collegiate Head, Jeremy

McCullough, said: “Of course it is brilliant when a school’s collective raw results are very good but, as ever, it is the

individual success stories that really demonstrate the value of the education a school has provided; it was therefore

fantastic to see so many smiling faces at school this morning.

“Our young people have worked very hard, been terrifically well-supported by their teachers and their parents, and have earned a fantastic set of results that will see 89 per cent of them move on to their first or second choice university or apprenticeship.”

Mr McCullough continued: “Our approach has never been to focus solely on education as a means to achieving examination results. Our holistic approach to school life means that our young people’s learning extends far beyond the narrow confines of any exam syllabus. This cohort have contributed to school life in so many different ways and, in doing so, they will have picked up a great many other personal qualities, such as resilience, determination and kindness. These qualities will stand them in good stead for the future.”

Bristol Grammar hails strong results

MORE than half of A-level grades at Bristol Grammar School were A* or A and 81 per cent A*-B.

Nine pupils achieved a clean sweep of three or four A* grades, and 35 per cent of the cohort achieved three or more A* and A grades. Nine BGS pupils will take up places at Oxford and Cambridge, on courses spanning the range of subjects on offer.

BGS head, Jaideep Barot, said: “I have enormous admiration and affection for this year group, and all they have done in their time at BGS. Quite apart from their stellar contributions to school life across so many fields, the way they have ridden the myriad challenges that have come their way over the last few years, speaks volumes for them – for some, just getting to this point has been a victory. More than this, though, they are just a thoroughly lovely group of individuals who have been excellent role models.

“I am delighted, therefore, to celebrate with them their results this year and to share their excitement for what comes next. It’s not just about today, of course, with our IB students having received their results in early July, the whole year group has much to be proud of with one in five of their grades awarded being at A* level.

Keen climber Izzy joined BGS in the Sixth Form and gained A*A*A in her A-levels. She has a place to study on a four-year Biological Sciences course at Sheffield, following a six-month ski instructor apprenticeship in

Canada.

She said: “I’m so glad I made the move to BGS. It has inspired independence and is such a warm and supportive community to be part of.”

Also heading overseas is Santiago who gained three As at A level and has a place to study International Relations at IE University in Madrid. He said: “Sixth form has been such an incredible experience. It sounds clichéd, but I couldn’t have asked for anything more.”

Michael gained four A* grades, as well as the two Grade 1s he required in the superchallenging STEP II and STEP III Mathematics papers and will now be taking up a place to study Maths at Emmanuel College, Cambridge.

Michael said: “My time at BGS has taught me a lot about the type of person I’d like to be and how to work hard, which is an incredibly valuable skill. I owe a lot of who I am today to BGS and I’m very grateful.”

Deputy head (academic), Daniel Stone, said: “On top of the A-level results there are also the results our pupils achieved in subjects they took as part of the Electives programme we run alongside A- levels. 39 pupils – our largest ever cohort –completed the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) with over two-thirds of grades at A* or A. Ten students took the AFA Creative Writing qualification (which has been pioneered by David Briggs in our English department), with four of them achieving an A*, and 16 students gained their Level 3 Sports Leadership qualification alongside their A-levels.

“All of these fantastic results, at all levels, vindicate our decision – initially taken during Covid, but continued since – to make unconditional offers for entry to our sixth form, for both our own pupils and the large number who join our sixth form from state and independent schools across Bristol.”

n EDUCATION

Bristol Free School students excel

BRISTOL Free School is celebrating another terrific set of A Level and BTEC Results. Despite these students being significantly disrupted by the pandemic over a number of years, they demonstrated exceedingly high levels of resilience and dedication and have been amply rewarded for their efforts.

More than a third of students achieved at least one A* or A grade and all three students who applied for Medicine were successful.

It was an excellent year for performance in the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) with 100% of students achieving A*-B. Finally, a significant number of students will be in the first generation of their family to go to university or to study for a degree apprenticeship.

Some highlights include:

Gwen and Juliette – Gwen achieved three A* grades and Juliette three A* and one A. Both students are now off to Exeter to study Medicine.

Dan – Dan attained two A* grades and one A. He is heading to the University of Leeds to study Architectural Engineering.

James – James achieved two A* grades and two As. He will be going to Exter to study Computer Science.

Reception 2024 TOURS

Reception 2024 TOURS

Is your child starting school in September 2024? At Henleaze Infant School we are invested in our children and our families, and we want to meet you!

Reception 2024 TOURS

To book onto one of our tours, please contact the school office. Henleaze Infant School, Park Grove, BS9 4LG 0117 377 2442 / https://www.henleaze-inf.bristol.sch.uk

Is your child starting school in September 2024? At Henleaze Infant School we are invested in our children and our families, and we want to meet you!

Is your child starting school in September 2024? At Henleaze Infant School we are invested in our children and our families, and we want to meet you!

Leaha – Leaha achieved Merit grades in BTEC Level 3 Applied Science and Health and Social Care.

Hebe – Hebe attained two A* grades and two As. She has secured a place at Birmingham University to study Chemistry.

Head of Sixth Form, Mr Smith, commented that 'Pupils from Bristol Free School will enrol at university courses from Exeter to Edinburgh in a diverse set of fields. A number of students are

To book onto one of our tours, please contact the school office. Henleaze Infant School, Park Grove, BS9 4LG 0117 377 2442 / https://www.henleaze-inf.bristol.sch.uk

To book onto one of our tours, please contact the school office. Henleaze Infant School, Park Grove, BS9 4LG 0117 377 2442

www.henleaze-inf.bristol.sch.uk

Discover simplicity and s2llness with a ten week course in Prac2cal Philosophy, drawing from some of the world’s great philosophical tradi2ons, both East and West.

Wednesdays from October 4th 2023 7.00pm to 9.15pm Fee: £60.00

The Mee2ng House, 126 Hampton Road, Redland, Bristol, BS6 6JE

Email: bathandbristol@fses.org

Enrol/Info: bathandbristol.schoolofphilosophy.org

Courses na2onally, interna2onally and online: www.schoolofphilosophy.org

Gwen and Juliette with headteacher Su King

n EDUCATION

Clifton High pupils smash grade target

CLIFTON High School saw another year of record-breaking A-level results with 48 per cent of pupils achieving A*-A grades and a third of Year 13s achieving three A*-As.

A quarter of students exceeded their expected grades in all subjects by an average of at least one grade, maintaining Clifton High’s trend of significant added value.

Specific subjects also saw great success with 100% of English Literature, Further Mathematics, Chinese and Art students achieving an A*-A. Additionally in History, German, Photography and Music, 100% of students received grades A*-B, 79% of all grades awarded in Mathematics and Further Mathematics were A*-A, 80%

of Chemistry results were A*-A and 93% of Biology grades were A*-B.

Katherine Rich, Head of Sixth Form, said: “I am delighted with the achievements of this year group, within which there are some extraordinary individual successes to celebrate. We wish them every success in their exciting next chapters beyond Clifton High Sixth Form.”

These results have enabled Clifton High students to follow a wide array of passions in their higher educational journeys. One student has accepted a place studying Biomedical Sciences at St Anne’s College, Oxford, whilst others will study Medicine, Product Design, Art Foundation, Actor Musicianship and History to name but a few.

Meet Fairlawn School's new headteacher

FAIRLAWN School in Montpelier has a new headteacher following the retirement of founding head Julie Molesworth.

Siobhan Lennox-Brown, who takes the helm this month, has been at the popular primary school in Montpelier since 2015, a year after it opened.

She joined as a Year 1 teacher, later becoming assistant head and then head of school.

“It has been amazing to be part of the school’s journey,” she said. “We have built a team of like-minded people with shared values, all here for the same reason.”

The school has a strong family culture, with parents very involved in activities including stay and play sessions, reading volunteers, trips, forest school, swimming, Iftars, and cultural picnics.

Children have an important voice too, through an active school council and an emphasis on the Rights Respecting ethos.

Fairlawn has established a clear and consistent curriculum focused on developing the whole child, with outdoor play, creativity and curiosity to the fore.

“We want children to be fully engaged in their learning, feeling comfortable to make mistakes and ask questions,” said Siobhan.

It might be a relatively new school but Fairlawn, which is housed in the former Fairfield Grammar School building, has already built firm foundations that foster a love of learning. Siobhan is a former pupil of Colston’s Girls’ School – now Montpelier

Rediscovering life’s colours: unlocking the stages of retirement

The journey through retirement represents a significant life transition. It goes beyond financial planning, and involves a complex set of emotional, social, and psychological adjustments. Understanding the stages of your retirement and finding ways to overcome potential challenges can unlock and enhance this phase of life.

Where are you in your retirement journey?

How’s it going?

Stage 1 Pre-retirement: (around 5-10 years before retirement) This is an exciting stage as you anticipate the future but can come with worries and concerns. Many people start to think about retirement from the point of view of financial planning but the psychological side is often overlooked. Planning what you want from retirement and what will make you happy prepares you for this and makes the transition easier.

Stage 2 Honeymoon stage: During this period, retirees often feel a sense of relief and enjoy newfound freedom. However, many experience a loss of identity and purpose as they detach from their previous work roles. Avoid flitting from one day to the next and devise a plan for how to spend your time.

Stage 3 Disenchantment: Here a realization emerges that retirement may not be as fulfilling as anticipated. Feelings of boredom, restlessness, or a lack of direction can emerge. Overcoming this stage requires proactively seeking new challenges and opportunities.

Stage 4 Reorientation: During this stage, retirees begin to adjust to their new lifestyle and develop a realistic sense of what retirement means for them. You may reevaluate your priorities, decide what to start doing/keep doing/stop doing. Building a social support network, staying physically active, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can contribute to successful reorientation.

Stage 5 Stability: The final stage involves establishing a stable and fulfilling lifestyle. Here, retirees have a clear sense of purpose, engage in activities they enjoy, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. However, it’s important to guard against complacency and continue seeking personal growth and social connections.

A Retirement Coach can work with you to overcome challenges at any of the 5 stages, supporting you to proactively plan for retirement – see What’s on Offer at www. sianreclaim.wordpress.com/what-we-offer/

High – which, like Fairlawn is part of Venturers Trust. She is maintaining a family tradition too; her grandmother, also a teacher, attended Fairfield Grammar School.

Siobhan is supported by deputy head Bern Langton and assistant head Rhys Lewis.

Remember, these stages are not set in stone, and everyone’s retirement journey is unique. The key is to embrace the non-financial aspects of retirement, as they play a vital role in shaping a fulfilling post-work life.

If you have concerns about retirement, whether you’ve retired or are approaching retirement, contact me, Siân Jones, for a free 30 minute consultation

I’m a certified coach, specialising in nonfinancial retirement.

Sian.Reclaim@gmail.com www.ReclaimLife.co.uk

Originally described stages: Robert C Atchley, Retirement: Leaving the World of Work - November 1982.

Siobhan Lennox-Brown with pupils at Fairlawn Primary School in Montpelier ADVERTISING

n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR

Birthday Bus passengers enjoy the benefits

OVER the Summer, I’ve been meeting some of the first ‘Birthday Bus’ passengers - West of England residents enjoying free bus travel throughout the month of their Birthday.

You can sign up too at www.birthdaybus. co.uk.

I have to say, people are really buying into the benefits of this scheme.

People like Helen, who works in a chocolate shop. I got chatting to her a few weeks ago and she told me she’s been using her Birthday Bus pass to travel to work when she’d usually take the car.

She said it’s given her a reason to leave her car at home and try the bus, and she’s really loved helping the planet.

Or people like Pauline, who told me Birthday Buses was a really good way to help ease a bit of financial stress during this frightening cost-ofliving crisis.

The verdict is clear, so for those who haven’t already done so, please do apply for your free month of birthday travel at www.birthdaybus. co.uk today, and tell your friends and family too. There’s nothing to lose and lots to gain!

When I was coming up with the idea for Birthday Buses, I knew we needed a plan that

ticked lots of boxes. There are so many crises at the moment, with the cost-of-living crisis and the environmental emergency always at the forefront of my thinking.

Birthday Buses ticks that cost-of-living box, with a whole month of bus travel for free. That’s one twelfth off your annual transport bills.

It’s also about tackling the climate emergency. A huge 44% of our carbon emissions currently come from transport, with fewer than one in ten regional commutes made on public transport. Shockingly, there are 300 preventable premature deaths due to air pollution every year. That’s why we need new ideas to encourage people out of their cars and onto public transport.

Like many regions, our buses are struggling to match pre-pandemic performance. While most people who used to use buses are doing so again, they are travelling less.

Delve in and this makes sense. It reflects changing demand, as working from home practices displace commuting patterns and many face-to-face meetings, like GP appointments, move online. But with people making fewer journeys, there is less fare income coming in. That means cuts, and a downward spiral.

Other places have tried free travel for a day or a week, but this is a whole month. Why? Because if you try our buses, I think you might like them - maybe even love them. And after a whole month, you might never look back.

We have to try something new.

Just throwing taxpayers money at subsidising buses isn’t sustainable. You spend the money and it runs out. And then you need more.

Instead, I’m determined that we invest to encourage new passengers to use our buses. It is the only long-term solution to grow a thriving bus network.

So to Helen, Pauline and especially to you: many happy returns - and singles!

Metro Mayor Dan Norris writes for the Voice

Buying a Home?

the buyer is entitled to have possession of the property and the seller must vacate it.

Advertising Feature

Buildings Insurance

with the lender that they will arrange the property insurance for you. However, if you are insuring the property yourself the lender will inform you of the sum you should insure it for.

Do you know who is responsible for the building’s insurance after exchange of contracts? Laura Wilkinson Solicitor from AMD Solicitors explains...

The gift that pays for itself

The Process

By Shelley Faulkner,

solicitor with AMD Solicitors

In a conveyancing transaction there are two key stages. The first is known as exchange of contracts and the second is completion. Contracts are exchanged once the buyer and their solicitors are satisfied as to the Property’s Title, its physical condition and that necessary purchase funds are available. At exchange of contracts a 10% deposit is usually payable by the buyer and a legally binding contract comes into existence meaning that neither party can legally withdraw from the deal without incurring severe financial penalties. Completion takes place on the date agreed in the contract and on that date

WHILE most of us support a number of charities in our lifetime, it is perhaps not surprising that a smaller number choose to remember a charity in their Will. Clearly the priority for most is to provide for a surviving spouse or children, or to ensure that the family wealth can be passed on to benefit the next generation.

However, government policy is clearly to encourage giving to charity, and a recent development in the law is intended to promote gifts to charity being made by Will. This change may also, on occasion, serve to save Inheritance Tax, or even to create a gift which literally pays for itself.

Reduced rate of Inheritance Tax

Where somebody dies after 6 April 2012 the rate of Inheritance Tax applied to the estate can be reduced from 40 % to 36 % (in other words by 10 %), provided that at least 10 % of the estate passes to charity.

Clearly it is not possible to determine in advance exactly what value the assets you leave by Will will have on your death for Inheritance Tax purposes, or what 10 % of the total value

Under Common Law the responsibility for the risk of damage or destruction of the property passes to the buyer on exchange of contracts unless the contract provides otherwise. The seller has no obligation to insure the property after exchange of contracts except in certain circumstances, eg where the property is leasehold and insured by the Management Company or Freeholder or the contract provides the responsibility will remain with the seller.

Know the position

How leaving money to charity can save you Inheritance Tax

will be. However a Will can be worded to provide that a gift of 10 % of the value of your estate at that time is given to a charity or charities of your choice. The effect of this will be that the rate of Inheritance Tax payable on the whole estate is reduced from 40 % to 36 %.

In same circumstances, it has been calculated that this reduction in the tax bill can serve to leave the estate, even after payment of the gift to charity, with a value as high as if the gift had not been made. Thus the gift can in some cases quite literally pay for itself.

The buyer is therefore responsible for insuring the property from exchange of contracts. It can often come as a surprise for a buyer to learn that they must insure the property before they can even move in!

for the distribution of the estate, and the estate can then be divided as if the Will had been made in these terms. A Deed of Variation could therefore provide that 10 % of the estate is to pass to a chosen charity or charities, making the estate as a whole eligible for the reduced rate of Inheritance Tax.

The property may be in an area classified as being at a raised risk of flooding or it may have a history of subsidence or be an unusual construction, which may

Even where a Will has not been prepared in these terms, it may be possible to take advantage of this tax break. If the beneficiaries of the estate agree, it is possible to effectively amend the terms of a Will within two years of the date of death. A ‘Deed of Variation’ can be drawn up which sets out the family members’ agreed arrangements

This change in the law is clearly very good news both for charities, and potentially for some estates as well. However the detail of the application can be complex. For example, the estate is divided into different ‘components’ depending on how the property will pass to the beneficiaries, in order to calculate whether the 10 % test has been met. Taking specialist advice on the implications for your particular circumstances is therefore essential.

A prudent buyer should make enquiries as to whether they will need to insure the property they are buying well in advance of exchange of contracts to avoid causing unnecessary last minute delays.

members of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners, the leading professional body in this field. We offer a free initial consultation for new clients.

require further consideration from the insurer before they agree to insure it. The buyer should therefore make enquiries at an early stage to ensure that buildings insurance can be obtained for the property.

For advice on administration of estates, trusts, wills, powers of attorney and all private client issues, contact Shelley Faulkner, Florence Pearce and the other members of the team on 0117 9621205, email probate@ amdsolicitors.com or call in at 15 The Mall Clifton, or 100 Henleaze Road Henleaze.

Whether you are purchasing or selling a property, it is important that you understand the conveyancing process as well as your liabilities and responsibilities. AMD Solicitors

Residential Property Service can advise you on these matters and will proactively support you to ensure your transaction is as stress free and cost effective as possible.

What if I am taking out a mortgage?

If you are taking out a mortgage on the property, you can agree

AMD’s team of experienced private client solicitors and practitioners includes full

AMD Solicitors takes pride in sponsoring local, Bristol based charities and this year is very pleased to be supporting the Bristol branch of the Alzheimer’s Society, the local branch of this national charity which works to improve the quality of life of people affected by dementia in Great Britain. For full details of our fundraising activities visit our website www.amdsolicitors.com.

If you would like any further information please call the team on 0117 9735647, email info@ amdsolicitors.com or visit one of our four Bristol offices.

Copyright AMD Solicitors

QR code aids Jack's ethical microbusiness

A BIG Issue seller in Bristol is pioneering a new way for vendors to raise awareness and increase income and support.

Jack Richardson, who sells the magazine outside Bird & Blend Tea in Park Street, is one of the first ten vendors in the country to offer a new digital initiative to his customers. A personalised QR code on his lanyard allows customers to share details of his pitch and his story to boost his earnings.

Big Issue sellers buy magazines for £2 and sell them on for £4. Customers can also subscribe with a vendor online, which provides vital additional regular income.

Jack said a lot of people thought vendors were given the magazines free.

“They ask how many you can get a day and that. But that’s definitely got better than it used to be, there’s a lot more awareness. I very much see it as a business in fact. I’m an ethical microbusiness – and I believe in the product which is a real advantage.”

Jack spoke about what selling the magazine means to him: “A lot of the help that you’re given when you’re in a powerless situation is by its very nature infantilising. The Big Issue isn’t like that, you are given support but in an empowering way!”

He added: “I like being given the flexibility and ownership that selling the Big

Issue gives me. I have various mental health problems which means it really helps to be in control of the work I do. With the Big Issue I can decide what hours I need to work.”

Speaking about his customers and his pitch, Jack said: “My little spot on Park Street has become my niche. People there can be incredibly generous, there was an older lady who I knew from there, who unbeknown to me was very ill, we used to speak to each other quite a bit. Over the lockdowns, I lost track of her, but about two months after the last one had finished, her daughter came and found me to explain she had sadly died during lockdown, but that she looked through her diary, and in between many sad entries there were these happy ones where she

explained she had spoken to me that day.”

He continued: “I had told her my wife was agoraphobic and loved playing computer games and right at the end of her diary she had left an envelope with £200 in specifically so I could by my wife a PlayStation 4. I was blown away, it’s amazing to have been a part of someone’s life like that. Her daughter has stayed in touch with me since too!”

On the digital initiative, Jack explained: “I’m always in favour of trying out new technologies and seeing how they work. I’ve already had a couple of customers who’ve put it up on their social media. That’s the thing about QR codes, they are so easy to share and I have a lot of young customers here who very much engage in these new technologies.”

He concluded: “But yeah, this last eight or nine years, I’ve been the most settled and definitely the happiest of my entire adult life. And that is in no small part down to the stability that the Big Issue gives me. I mean I even met my wife through the Big Issue.”

Lord Bird, Founder of the Big Issue Group, said: “We are urging you to help boost your local vendor’s income by scanning their personalised QR code to share the vendor’s story and subscribe.”

To subscribe visit www.bigissue.com/ boost-vendor-earnings

Big Issue seller Jack at his pitch on Park Street

Golden days as grapes start to ripen

WE’VE reached the last phase of the growing season which is characterised in grapes by a process called veraison.

You can tell when Veraison is happening because it’s very visible! In the red grapes it’s more obvious because they begin to turn from green to red but the white grapes also change from green to a more translucent, golden colour. Because we have a heavy crop of white grapes it’s quite lovely to see a sea of gold appearing along the bottom of the vines.

The colour change doesn’t mean the grapes are ready. The process of ripening takes around six weeks in total but it’s just a sign that the grapes have stopped swelling and that sugars are slowly increasing. The colour change makes the red grapes much more visible to birds who seem to know exactly

the grapes are ripe! We’ve got a few more weeks to put the nets on and protect the red grapes but thankfully they don’t seem to notice the white grapes in the same way.

The swallows are still with us for a little while longer. I’ll be sad to see them fly south for another year but look forward to their return next spring. By chance the weather has been perfect for the

grapes this year, dry and warm when we needed it and wet when the vines needed it. For these last few weeks it’d be great to get some warmth to help the big crop ripen in time for harvest.

In a quick wine update, we’re down to our last few bottles of red and white fizz so make sure you pop along to local shop or get in touch if you wanted some for, dare I say it, Christmas! We

have lots more fizz back at the winery and we’ll try and prep new supplies for Christmas but can’t guarantee at this stage if it’ll be ready.

hello@dunleavyvineyards.co.uk

www.dunleavyvineyards.co.uk

@DYvineyards (Twitter)dunleavy vineyards (Facebook & Instagram)

n FROM THE MAYOR’S OFFICE

Parking up the wrong tree

Bristol’s transport challenges require bold action. Big ideas. We need to continue to transform the way that Bristolians can move around our city, by giving people an affordable, reliable alternative to their cars.

Portway Park & Ride, Bristol’s first new railway station in almost a century, opened recently. We’re already on site at Ashley Down station and pushing forward new stations at Henbury, Filton North, Ashton Gate, and St Annes.

This major investment in rail is important, not least as we continue to tackle the climate crisis. But, compared to similarly sized cities, all those stations opening would still fall short of what Bristolians need and deserve: a mass transit system fully segregated from other modes of transport to ensure its reliability.

As two fully published feasibility studies set out, this is both deliverable and affordable in Bristol. As with all modern, major projects, this would require a mix of funding sources including from national

government. But the productivity pay offs would be enormous, and the system would be profitable for operators and investors. There has been some sensationalist coverage of a flawed, leaked report that suggests that the cost of a mass transit system for our city region is £19 billion. In reality, a properly costed plan, where underground is only used in densely populated areas suggests more like £7 billion.

When we looked at investing in a mass transit scheme, we identified one potential income stream as a Workplace Parking Levy. This would essentially serve as a surcharge on all drivers parking centrally while they’re at work. It has existed in Nottingham since 2011/12, where the money goes into their tram system (delivered at a time when Bristol could have had one too, had local leaders not fallen out in our region around the millennium).

Some politicians continue to put the cart before the horse, just as they did when they called for

the whole city to be covered by a charging Clean Air Zone before our administration had secured tens of millions of pounds of support for people. They were wrong then and they are wrong now.

With high inflation during a national cost of living crisis, now is not the time to create more costs for people. Others will say that today is an ideal moment to hit teachers, nurses, and other Bristolians parking at schools, hospitals, and other workplaces in central Bristol for hundreds of pounds,. They are wrong. Bristol has, in recent years, like the rest of the world, seen major changes in working patterns during and following the pandemic. These patterns will also have been impacted by the introduction of the Clean Air Zone, for which our administration recently secured another £11 million to help people and businesses to upgrade to compliant vehicles.

A study was done into the idea of a Workplace Parking Levy,

which is lacking any modelling incorporating those major factors for its potential effectiveness. The council considers it, therefore, to be just a draft – a position endorsed by the Information Commissioner when we declined to publish it while it is still yet to be completed. This position has unfortunately since been overturned on a technical argument of law and so we are today publishing that draft report. It remains incomplete and, with the current stalling of the funding and ambition to take a mass transit system forward, we have no plans to introduce this charge.

Marvin Rees shares his views with the Voice

n NEWS FROM OUR MP

Improving engagement for renewable projects

I met with Bristol-based Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE) who briefed me on their community engagement strategy for the development of new renewable energy sites.

Their process could be a springboard for community projects – such as small scale solar and wind -and is aimed at supporting local authorities and communities in the transition to net zero.

I regularly meet with local businesses who are leading the way to net zero but are being held back the Tories. They want better grid connectivity and an improved planning process. Businesses who are excited about the prospects of harnessing tidal energy in the Severn Estuary or building green hydrogen networks in the South-West.

A Labour government will back the UK to reach net zero with a bold ambition to lead the world in clean and cheap power by 2030 which will involve ramping up to £28bn a year in capital investment

in the green economy during its first term.

Meeting Bristol’s arts and culture organisations

I had a roundtable meeting with some of Bristol’s most loved arts organisations. Theatres, independent cinemas and radio channels, music and art venues, freelance artists and more were represented.

They told me how challenging the circumstances have been since the pandemic. Audience numbers have still not completely recovered and even where audiences have returned, they are spending a lot less due to an inflationary economy. I also heard about the huge energy costs organisations were paying due to old buildings.

People expressed the need for a holistic government strategy for job creation in the sector.

I highly value Bristol’s position as a leading arts and culture destination in the UK. I mirror the views of one of the attendees who said that ‘e’ve had a good past but it needs to translate to a great

future.’

Arts and culture give us identity, belonging, shared experiences and joy. A Labour government will ensure that Britain’s cultural and creative industries are driving growth and prosperity for everyone.

I will write to the government and my colleagues in Labour’s Culture team with the suggestions from the roundtable meeting. Watch this space for more.

Pushing for support for families affected by violence in Sudan I recently met with a group of women with family members living in Darfur. They shared harrowing tales of mass killings, internet blockages and severe shortages of food and medicines in the region. Everyone I met simply wanted their family members to be safe.

I have been pushing the government to do more for British citizens to help get their loved ones to safety. There are no visa application centres in Sudan and armed militia are blocking escape routes to other countries. Even

those that have been able to leave Sudan and apply for a visa through a standard route, have had their applications rejected. I have written to the Foreign Secretary and followed up with the Immigration Minister once again. You can find my letters and the government’s response on my website – www.debbonaire.co.uk.

Thangam Debbonaire writes for the Voice

Peace of mind as you face life's adventures

AFTER weeks of summer fun, it is time to return to school, college, university, or even head off for a gap year trip abroad! Work also counts for some.

What help can your local pharmacy offer to ensure you have a healthy start and stay well through the year?

The NHS Covid and flu vaccination winter campaigns are starting. If you are eligible, don’t delay and get your jab asap. We can also help with private Flu vaccination.

Chicken pox usually starts as small red itchy spots. It spreads quickly from contact with clothes and bedding, while you can also catch it from someone with shingles. Alongside helping to treat, we offer the Chicken Pox Vaccination for

children and adults at the lowest price.

A healthy diet helps growth and development, reduces sick days off school, and improves academic results! If your child is a picky eater, we can also discuss options to support them with multivitamins supplements.

Head lice or nits affect one in three school children and their families. Nits can survive in long hair for a long time if untreated. From performing a weekly comb detection check to cost-effective treatment options, the pharmacy team can help. We also have non-chemical natural treatment products.

We offer Meningitis B vaccination to help protect against the death or life-changing effects of the disease.

0117 9246579

18 Kellaway Avenue, Westbury Park, Bristol, BS6 7XR

It can strike at any age, but babies and young children are most at risk, including teenagers and young people. Many universities, colleges and schools increasingly now recommend vaccination, and we offer it the best prices in the South West.

Moreover, we offer savings and peace of mind for those whose next adventure is not in a playgroup, school or campus but involves a gap year abroad. Our low-cost travel clinic offers jabs at affordable prices with a price-match promise.

Kellaway Pharmacy is committed to providing the best, easily accessible and affordable healthcare in our community.

Vaccination query? Call us on 0800 7723575

Bristol Care Homes supports staff development

DEVELOPING your career as a carer to becoming a nurse has always been a challenge to those who need to earn a living. Nurses require a degree in order to register for practice, however going to university to achieve this is not for everyone. Fortunately, a local social care provider has implemented a pathway which supports employed care staff to develop into nursing professionals while maintaining their employment.

Bristol Care Homes has four high quality care homes in north Bristol and South Gloucestershire. They pride themselves on the quality of care they provide, and the investment they put into the development of their staff team. Their latest investment has come in the form of a pathway to support care staff to attend the University of the West of England and qualify as a Nurse Associate. The Nursing and Midwifery Council describe the Nurse Associate role as “a member of the nursing team in England that helps bridge the gap between health and care

assistants and registered nurses.” Bristol Care Homes has four members of the team who have followed this pathway so far. Elena from Glebe House, Sarah from Quarry House and Shahira from Field House have all successfully earned their foundation degrees from UWE Bristol. Jemma from Beech house is still on the course and due to qualify in the next few months. Elena, Sarah and Shahira have all decided to progress onto a top up course with UWE which will see them achieve their full Nursing Degrees and become Registered Nurses and Jemma will do the same once she has completed her Nurse Associate studies.

“Here at Bristol Care Homes, we care about our staff just as much as we care about our residents," says Richard Crocker, CEO of Bristol Care Homes.

“It is important for us that we can identify talent within our organisation and support them all to achieve their maximum potential. As part of this latest investment, we decided to fully support our Nurse Associates to

attend university once a week for study, attend their required placements and achieve the required off the job hours within their overall contracted hours all whilst paying them their full salary. This support continues for them as they progress on to the degree. We are very proud of the achievements of this dedicated group, and we look forward to supporting many more of our team through the same route in the future.”

Bristol Care Homes is committed to providing excellent lifetime care to residents and great career opportunities to staff. Two of its homes have CQC ‘Outstanding’ rating, whilst its resident fees remain extremely competitive

and good value. The career development pathways ensures that people who join or work in the company strive to provide that excellent standard of care to residents while also growing professionally within the company. Other staff benefits expected when joining the Bristol Care Homes teams are:

• Up to £250 welcome bonus

• Up to £250 refer a friend bonus

• Great rates of pay

• 10% enhancement salary rate on hours worked on weekends

• Time and a half at Bank Holidays

• Profit share bonus scheme

• Excellent induction programme

• Excellent training and development opportunities

• Valuable career development pathways

• holiday, retail & leisure discounts

• Employee assistance programme

• Cycle to work scheme

• Free meal on +8 hours shifts. If you are keen to work for an employer who invests in staff support and development visit www.bristolcarehomes.co.uk to see the latest opportunities.

SEPTEMBER

Wednesday 12th

n THE ARTS SOCIETY BRISTOL lecture on The History of the National Gallery in Ten Pictures is at 8pm at Redmaids' High BS9 3AW on 12 September. We welcome new members and guests. For more information on our lectures and membership application see our website www.theartssociety-bristol. org.uk

Wednesday 20th

n BRISTOL WNO FRIENDS start on Wednesday 20 September when we are delighted to welcome Dr. David Bednall who will explore some of the meanings, music, beauty and overwhelming feeling of redemption at the heart of the enigma that is "Parsifal", Wagner's final masterpiece. Apostle Room, Clifton Cathedral, 6.45 for 7.15: easy parking, bar, Friends £8, Visitors £10. Further information from melaniejdavid@btinternet.com or 01934 842014

Monday 25th

n HENLEAZE SENIOR FILM CLUB

Monday 25th September at 2pm

Save the Cinema (12)

Based on the true story of a hairdresser who campaigns to save the village cinema that is being threatened with closure. Starring Jonathan Pryce and Samantha Morton. Tickets: £4.00 including refreshments. Carers welcome, easy access. For more information, please call 0117 435 0063.

St. Peter’s Hall, The Drive, Henleaze BS9 4LD

REGULAR EVENTS

Monday

n REDLAND WIND BAND has vacancies for some woodwind, brass and percussion players. This friendly group meets 7.30-9.30pm at Redland Church Hall, Redland Green. Contact via email on redlandwindband@gmail.com

n DICKENS SOCIETY. 7pm, at Leonard Hall, Henleaze URC, Waterford Rd, Bristol BS9 4BT. Talks, costumed readings, book club and social events. See www.dickenssociety.org.uk or phone Roma on 0117 9279875.

n PLAY BOWLS at Canford Park in a friendly, social atmosphere. Qualified coaches and equipment provided. Contact: Les on 07305695579

n WESTBURY AND CLIFTON

AREA DISCUSSION GROUP are a merry band of retired people who meet at Westbury on Trym Baptist Church every Monday morning (9.45) and like to challenge ourselves with topical debate on what’s happening in the world. If you would like to join and help to solve some of today's challenging issues, contact James Ball 01454 415165 or Ian Viney 0117 9501628.

n BRISTOL COMMUNITY GAMELAN play the music of Java at Cotham School from 6.30-8.30. We play by numbers – only 1-6, without the 4 ! So no auditions, no need to read music. If you fancy a different musical experience, contact us via email on keithripley27@gmail.com

n WESTBURY ON TRYM WOMEN'S INSTITUTE meets on the third Monday of the month in the Westbury Village Hall, Eastfield Road, BS9 4AG, from 2.00 - 4.00 pm. We have interesting speakers, and extra activities of crafts, lunch club, skittles and outings. For more information call Sascha on 07961619806 or Traci on 07766073917

Tuesday

n THE ARTS SOCIETY BRISTOL LECTURE welcomes new members. Our lectures, given by specialists in their own field, take place on the second Tuesday of the month from September to May at 8pm at Redmaids' High BS9 3AW and by internet. For more information visit our website www. theartssociety-bristol.org.uk

n BRISTOL HARMONY WEST GALLERY CHOIR and band sing and play lively church and village music from the 18thcentury. St Edyth’s Church Hall, St Edyth’s Road, Sea Mills, 7.30 pm on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday each month. All voices (SATB), string, wind and reed instruments welcome. No auditions

but ability to read music helpful. www.bristolharmony.wordpress. com or call Fritjof 0117 924 3440. Contact before attending.

n POETRY UNLIMITED – poetry circle meet on the First Tuesday of every month 11am - 12 midday. Basement Room, Café Kino, 108 Stokes Croft, Bristol, BS1 3RU. £2.50 - £3.00 donation towards the cost of the room. Bring a couple of poems to share, other poets or your own. Contact Dee: wetwo@ gentlyblown.co.uk Web: www. poetryunlimitedbristol.weebly.com

n COMPANION VOICES BRISTOL

We are a 'threshold choir' looking for new people to join us. We meet in Easton on the 3rd Tuesday of the month from 7 to 9 pm to learn songs by ear and build skills in sensitivity/compassion/ loving presence to sing at the bedsides of people nearing the end of life. To join/support us in this work, contact Valerie on bristol@companionvoices. org. Visit www.facebook.com/ CompanionVoicesBristol and www. companionvoices.org.

Wednesday

n WELCOME WEDNESDAY

Friendly and free coffee afternoon on the last Wednesday of the month, 2-3.30pm at The Beehive Pub, Wellington Hill West, BS9 4QY. Meet new people, have fun, and find out what’s happening in your local area. Call 0117 435 0063 for more information.

n BRISTOL SCRABBLE CLUB meets every Wednesday evening at 7pm until 10pm at Filton Community Centre, Elm Park, Filton BS34 7PS. New members welcome- first visit free so come along and give us a try. For further information contact Tania by email at tanialake@yahoo.co.uk

n HEALING SESSIONS run by accredited healers take place 2 til 3.30pm at Westbury Park Spiritualist Church, Cairns Road BS6 7TH. Just turn up, or for info contact Marian Bishop 0117 9771629 or visit www. westburyparkspiritualistchurch.org

n BRISTOL VOICES COMMUNITY

CHOIR welcomes new members at any time. We meet at 7.30pm in St Werburghs Primary School during term time. See www.bristolvoices. org.uk for details.

Thursday

n HEALING FOR WELLBEING Feel more relaxed, peaceful, calmer. Drop-in 3.00 - 4.15 pm at Redland Meeting House, 126 Hampton Road, BS6 6JE. Donation basis. Supported by members of The Healing Trust. Selina 0117 9466434 or selinanewton@yahoo.co.uk.

n BISHOPSTON COMMUNITY

CHOIR Meet on Thursday evenings, 7.30pm to 9.00pm at St Michael's and All Angels Church on Gloucester Road. Everyone welcome, no audition necessary. Contact us via email on bishoproadchoir@gmail.com

n HENLEAZE LADIES’ CHOIR

Come and join us as we fill St Peter’s Church Hall in Henleaze with a

diverse selection of music. We are a friendly choir and meet on Thursday afternoons in term time from 1.45 to 3.45. There are no auditions, and the ability to read music is not necessary. Contact Jeanette on 9685409 or Jane on 07752 332278

n LOCAL CHOIR. We meet at Stoke Bishop CE Primary School, BS9 1BW on Thursday, 7.459.15pm. We are a well-established mixed choir performing both sacred and secular music. See our website www.henburysingers. org or contact the secretary at secretary@henburysingers.org.

n HIGHBURY BADMINTON

CLUB: Pete Stables 0117 950 1524 or www.pete4458.wixsite.com/ highburybadminton Thurs 7:30pm mid September to End April, Westbury-on-Trym Village Hall

n OPEN DEVELOPMENT CIRCLE

For those interested in developing their spiritual awareness and mediumistic ability. 7.15 for 7.30pm start at Westbury Park Spiritualist Church, Cairns Road BS6 7TH. Just turn up, or for info contact Marian Bishop 0117 9771629 or visit www. westburyparkspiritualistchurch.org

n ENJOY SCOTTISH DANCING at St. Monica’s Oatley Hall, Cote

Lane, BS9 3UN on Thursdays 7.30 – 10.00 p.m. £6.00 per session. Phone Trish 0788 052 8925/www. rscdsbristol.info

n THE STEPFORD SINGERS

WOMEN'S COMMUNITY CHOIR meets at St Michael & All Angels Church, Bishopston on Thursday afternoons, 1pm to 3pm. No auditions and no need to read music - just come and sing, laugh and have a cuppa! For info, contact Fran franbolton66@gmail.com

Friday

n THE SINGING TREE. Fun kodály inspired music sessions for under fives. 10 - 11am Redland Church Hall. Refreshments included. Contact Kate on singingtreewithkate@gmail.com for further details.

n SINGING FOR WELLBEING. Women's group. 11.15am12.30pm Redland Church Hall. All ages and stages, incl. babies and children, welcome. Refreshments included. Contact Kate on singingmamasbristolkate@ gmail.com for further details. Refreshments included.

n CALLIGRAPHERS wanted to join us at St Edyth’s Church Hall, Sea Mills, on Fridays 1000-1200. Come and meet us or call Peter at 0117 329 4516.

Saturday

n EVENING OF MEDIUMSHIP WITH PSYCHIC MEDIUM VAL WILLIAMS Saturday August 19th at 7pm Westbury Park Spiritualist Church, Cairns Road BS6 7TH Tickets £10 . Tickets on sale at the church or contact Marian Bishop on 0117 977 1629 marianbishop@talktalk.net

n PROPERTY OF THE MONTH

69 Chesterfield Rd, St. Andrews, £895,000

A substantial Victorian property of 1979 sq. ft / 183.9 sq. m, located on a sought after road in St Andrews. The property retains a wealth of period features throughout, including beautiful stained glass details, full bay picture windows, ornate ceiling cornice and fireplaces. The excellent room sizes and high ceilings provide a wonderful sense of space and light throughout the property.

201 Gloucester Road

Bishopston

Bristol BS7 8BG

Sales: 0117 942 5855

n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

Together we can make policing better

I HAVE launched a campaign called Together We Can… to raise awareness of the work being done by my office to improve, change and challenge policing.

Together We Can… is a call to action for residents to get involved in policing to ensure our communities are safe.

The campaign is also an opportunity to highlight how the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) continues to work for local people.

My Police and Crime Plan, launched in 2021, includes four priorities – preventing and fighting crime; engaging and supporting communities and victims; leading the police to be efficient and effective; and increasing confidence in the criminal justice system.

Many people are not aware of the work that the OPCC carries out and, crucially, when they can turn to us for support to address issues or concerns they have with policing.

We work hard to tackle so many varied issues that may affect all our lives at some point – from violence against women and girls and racial disproportionality to fraud and anti-social behaviour.

My job is to hold Avon and Somerset Police’s chief constable to account and to keep striving for policing that serves everyone equally, so we all feel safe and supported in everyday life.

For more information about Together We Can… and my police and crime priorities visit the OPCC website, www.avonandsomersetpcc.gov.uk.

I would also like to take the opportunity to highlight the recently-opened preventing victims fund. The fund is an opportunity for any Avon and Somerset-based group that already provides services to victims of crime to apply for a grant of up to £20,000.

The Preventing Victims Fund is being delivered in partnership between the OPCC, Somerset

Community Foundation and the Quartet Community Foundation. The fund aims to complement groups providing services to victims of crime, enabling them to explore different approaches that could prevent people from becoming victims in the first place. This prevention focus is one of the Police and Crime Plan key priorities.

Finally, I urge local people to remain vigilant over an emerging scam involving fake emails purporting to be from mortgage lenders.

It has come to my attention that Action Fraud received 538 reports in just a two-week period relating to these emails that claim to offer limited-time deals to low-rate mortgages.

Heartless criminals are taking advantage of people’s concerns relating to mortgages to lure them into phishing scams. The websites set up by criminals disguise themselves as a trustworthy source in order to steal personal and financial data for their own gain.

With Police and Crime Commissioner Mark

Shelford

We need to let as many people know that such scams are circulating, to ensure we prevent people from falling victim.

Remember if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If you have doubts about an email or message, contact the organisation directly before sharing any personal or financial information. Do not use the numbers or addresses in the email – use the details from their official website.

NHS vaccine hero gets honorary degree

BRISTOL pharmacist Ade Williams received an honorary degree during UWE Bristol's summer graduation ceremonies at Bristol Cathedral.

He was one of seven people with expertise and leadership across a variety of areas, including health, climate change, science communication and architectural education, to receive the accolade.

The recipients were all recognised for outstanding achievements in their chosen fields, and for their significant contributions not only to the university, but to the wider Bristol region.

The others were:

• Simon Nelson, founder and owner of Same Difference, an equality, diversity and inclusion training and workplace mediation service;

• Malcolm Love, an independent producer, radio host and lecturer in Science Communication;

• Jane Hadfield, a nurse leading

an NHS England project to widen access, participation, and inclusion;

• Andy Marsh, former Avon and Somerset Chief Constable and head of the College of Policing;

• Elizabeth Parkes, who leads the Environment Agency’s work on climate change and public health;

• Professor Lal Balasuriya, a Chartered Architect and Urban

Designer, who has led UWE’s provision in Sri Lanka.

Ade is the superintendent of the multi-award-winning Bedminster Pharmacy in Bristol and Lead Pharmacist at the Bristol Travel Clinic. He was named an NHS Vaccine Hero for his work promoting access and increasing uptake. Awarded an MBE in 2022 for service to the NHS, he is a Fellow of both the Royal Society of Arts and the Royal Society for Public Health. He is a Royal Pharmaceutical Society Fellow and the profession's Patient Champion.

UWE Bristol's ViceChancellor, Professor Sir Steve West, said: "It's been an honour to welcome these distinguished individuals to celebrate their achievements alongside all our outstanding students graduating this summer. Their contributions are many and varied, and I hope they will inspire our graduates as they take their first steps into their chosen careers."

Ade Williams left with, Lord Lieutenant Peaches Golding, and Professor Emmanual Adukwu at the degree ceremony

n BOOKS

On Earth We're

Briefly Gorgeous

by Ocean Vuong

Review by Bob Deacon of Bishopston Library

OCEAN Vuong is a Vietnamese American poet and novelist. This novel is dedicated to his mother. The author draws on his own life to tell the story of Little Dog, the son of Vietnamese immigrants to the United States.

His grandfather Paul is a white American soldier, posted to Vietnam in 1967, where he meets Lan, a Vietnamese sex worker, who is running away from an arranged marriage to a man three times her age. They marry and have three children including Rose, the author’s mother. At the age of two, the author is admitted to the US, following a spell in a refugee camp in the Phillipines. He grows up in Hartford, Connecticut with his mother and grandmother.

The narrative shifts back and forth in time, as we discover the back stories of Lan, Rose and Little Dog. We hear about the racism faced by Rose, growing up as a mixed race child in Vietnam, where she is called a ghost girl and

has buffalo shit slapped on her face to make her brown again. She watched her schoolhouse collapse after an American napalm raid and grows up unable to read.

We find out that when Lan meets Paul that night in a bar in Saigon, she is already four months pregnant by an unknown father. One of Little Dog's earliest memories is watching as the police arrest his father for one of the many incidents of violence against his mother. His mother is in turn violent towards her son, until he finally says stop at the age of 13.

Rose finds a job in the US, working in a nail salon, which provides a welcome refuge for the Vietnamese immigrant community, a place where children are raised, with the backroom

turned into a kitchen, where cauldrons of pho, simmer with aromas of cloves, cinnamon, ginger and mint. We hear about Little Dog's first job age 14, working on a tobacco farm, earning nine dollars an hour, in cash, as he was too young to be legally employed. The farm is the setting for his first sexual encounter, with Trevor, the owner's redneck grandson.

This is a very moving coming of age memoir of an immigrant and his family, forging a future for themselves in a strange country, and illustrating the lasting impact of war on successive generations.

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