Oracle Thorpe Bay October 2017 by Oracle Publications

October 2017

Your all-seeing local

Thorpe Bay, Southchurch, the Garrison & Shoeburyness

WIN! £40 Cut & Blow-dry at Perry Brown Hairdressers

Money Talks: How to Change a Will After Death

Local Issues: Secrets and Sorcery in Southend

Cover photo by Javier Fernandez – Oracle Photographic Competition 2017 entrant

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October 2017

ORACLE

WELCOME

It’s the month of Halloween and we have had some fun with the magazine this month! If you’re looking for a new hobby then Oracle’s Local Issues article might just conjure up some ideas – it’s magic! Wendy Lee, Managing Director of Wine de Vine gives us her expert opinion on various wines in the lead up to Christmas and Celia Leslie offers help to people who suffer from stress and want to feel more energised with a little-known technique – Transformational Breath (see page 44). This month’s competition has been kindly donated by Perry Brown Hairdressers, Southchurch Road, Southend SS1 2PH. One lucky person has the chance to win a cut and blow-dry worth £40 with Creative Director, Natasha Brown. Not just a hairdressers – Perry Brown offers manicures, pedicures and much more, and Natasha says that they are also offering complimentary colour consultations for the month of October. For more information, give them a call on: 01702 826470. To enter the competition, please send in your name and contact details to: Oracle/Perry Brown Hairdressers Competition, Oracle House, 11 Clarence Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 1AN or email: info@oraclepublications.co.uk by Tuesday, 31 October 2017. Good luck and happy trick or treating!

Emma Wynne-Morgan Publisher

01702 393838

Oracle House, 11 Clarence Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS1 1AN www.oraclepublications.co.uk info@oraclepublications.co.uk Oracle Publications and Creative Media @oracle_essex Printed by Printwize Ltd, Witham CM8 3BN – 01376 500900

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CONTENTS 40 Years of the Magic Number

9/10

Local Issues by Adrian Fox

What Does Your Hairstyle Say About You?

Salon advice by Craig Smith

NEW! The Fall and Rise of Chardonnay 24 Latest from the grapevine by Wendy Lee

Change a Will After Death?

Money Talks with Clive Rowe

Creamy Pot Roast Chicken with Butternut Squash

Judy's Recipe Page

A Breath of Fresh Air

Wellbeing by Celia Leslie

Brainbox 54 What's On 58 Useful Numbers 64 Advertiser Directory 66 Advertorials Cliff House Clinic 18 Smiles on Broadway 34 PGR Builders & Timber Merchants 40/41 High-Tech Membrane Roofing 50/51 Shoeburyness High School 60/61

All rights reserved. No part of Oracle Publications UK Ltd may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means either wholly or in part without prior permission of the publisher. Oracle Publications UK Ltd is editorially autonomous and the opinions expressed are not those of the publisher unless expressly stated.

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October 2017

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October 2017

LOCAL ISSUES

40 years of the magic number When people find out that you’re a magician, they always ask the same few questions, “Can you make my wife/ husband disappear? ” then, after you’ve shown them a couple of tricks, “How did you do that?” followed a little later by, “Can you teach me how to do it?” Magic and the secrecy surrounding it simply fascinates most people. Everyone remembers an uncle they had as a child who would do little tricks such as pulling a coin out of their ear; or seeing a magician at a friend’s birthday party; or watching Paul Daniels, David Copperfield or Dynamo performing miraculous magic on television.

We simply can’t resist the challenge of trying to work out how such tricks and illusions are performed but, ironically, what we really enjoy is to accept defeat and be forced to accept that perhaps magic really does exist. Who wouldn’t love to possess the power to cause such amazement? And that’s why clubs like the Southend Sorcerers’ Society exist. Not just to satisfy people’s curiosity, but also to share and teach the skills needed to become part of what is an amazing hobby, and a fantastic career for the lucky few. Most people will have heard of the Magic Circle of course, but there are literally dozens of clubs like ours around the UK, all with members who have taken their fascination with magic to the next level.

The oldest trick in the book Magic has a rich history dating back hundreds, if not thousands, of years. On the wall of a burial chamber in Egypt, created in around 2500 BC, there’s an ancient painting which is believed to show two young men performing the classic Cups and Balls routine made famous in modern times by great performers like Tommy Cooper. The trick involves some of the fundamental skills of magic – misdirection, vanishing and appearing objects and the swift and invisible manipulation of items. In more recent years, and especially at times like Halloween where magic and mystery is in the air, the skill of helping spectators to suspend disbelief and experience the wonder of the impossible happening right in front of their eyes has become hugely popular. Close-up magic is now a sought

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after entertainment at weddings, parties and in restaurants. As a set of personal performances, it relies entirely on the skill and dexterity of the magician who must also have great people skills to entertain an audience. It’s a unique skill set. Southend itself actually has a magical history – Houdini performed at the Alexandra Yacht Club in one of his rare UK appearances, and TV magician David Nixon made our town his home as well. So now, in Southend Sorcerers’ 40th year, and with more members than ever before, it’s a great opportunity to look back and celebrate our own rich heritage.

Working their magic The idea of forming a local magic club began to take shape in 1976 when local aspiring magician Ken Hoskins was introduced to professional magician Ron Macmillan. They began to meet at The Dickens pub in Southend. Once a week, on a Sunday night they would get together and Ron would share his knowledge and expertise with Ken. Over time, other local magicians heard about these informal meetings and the group grew. As numbers and interest increased, talk arose of turning the informal meetings into a more organised club. Regular attendee Jimmy Rogers took the idea forward. In December 1976 he arranged for an article to be published in the Evening Echo and used it to create a ‘call to action’, reaching out to local magicians to join a club – a place to share ideas and to continue to develop the art of magic as a form of entertainment for all.

And so, Southend Sorcerers was born. Over the years, membership numbers have fluctuated wildly – at one time the club could have held its monthly meetings in a phone box! But now, with the interest in magic at a new height of popularity and with performers like Essex man Richard Jones and Jamie Raven doing well in TV shows such as Britain’s Got Talent, the club’s membership is at an all time high.

Now you see it So, for anyone interested in discovering for themselves the fascination of performing magic, the club is a welcoming and nurturing environment where people of all ages can share and learn effects and routines. We meet once a month at the Ekco Club in Thornford Gardens, Southend-on-Sea and membership starts at 12 years old for our junior section. We welcome all ages and abilities, from complete beginners with a keen interest, to full-time professionals. You can find out more at our website: www.southendsorcerers.co.uk by Adrian Fox President of the Southend Sorcerers’ Society

www.southendsorcerers.co.uk 10

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October 2017

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October 2017

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SALON

What does your hairstyle say about you?

It seems an inevitable part of life that, after years of experimentation, we settle on a particular hairstyle. But what does your long-term choice say about you? Ponytail – According to boffins, a ponytail reveals someone who is efficient, understated and appreciates classic style. Not that a ponytail is humdrum – it can be worn sleek and straight or given a glamorous twist with accessories.

Natural Curls – If you have naturally curly hair and don’t straighten it, you’re sending a loud and clear message that you are confident and true to yourself. Whether you wear this style short, mid-length or long, you’re an original with a sense of style. Long and Loose – Arguably this is the easiest style and has endured for centuries because it’s just so sexy. From demure damsel to full-on rock chick, long hair goes from work-appropriate and dressy, to carefree and weekend-ready in the blink of an eye. Braided – Made increasingly popular by TV shows such as Game of Thrones and Vikings, braids balance a sense of ages-old grace with skilful attention to detail. Braided hair enjoys the versatility of either being worn simply or elaborately, depending on the occasion. Simple braids reference the carefree style of the late 60s and 1970s, while more intricate braids are very much en vogue right now.

Short and Styled – Popular with older women, but seen as something of a statement if worn by their younger counterparts, short hair signals that you’re a self-assured, confident person. The pixie cut is no-frills and yet elegant, avant-garde and classic. This is the rare haircut that can complement both a fashion-forward twenty-something and a refined, elegant woman. Classic Chignon – Another practical classic, the chignon or plain ‘bun’, suggests elegance. Why else would it be synonymous with ballerinas and beautiful brides? The chignon announces that you’re a poised woman who mixes confidence with old-school femininity. This style works just as well at a swanky corporate event as it does on the weekend in jeans and a t-shirt.

Big Waves – Loose curls and big waves are said to show that you’re a romantic and a dreamer who sees infinite possibilities in day-to-day experiences. Big, loose waves certainly suggest a carefree nature but add a metallic headband and you instantly have ontrend glamour and sophistication.

by Craig Smith

Director of Grateful Heads Hair Salon, Southend Providing expert hair care to Essex for 30 years. Isn’t it time you made your head grateful?

01702 340965 32 Alexandra Street, Southend SS1 1BU 16

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DRINK

The fall and rise of Chardonnay

As suppliers of wines to restaurants, bars and hotels it has been evident in recent years that Chardonnay has fallen out of favour with the general British palate. This noble grape – through no fault of its own – has been subjected to unfair criticism and disapproval. “Anything But Chardonnay” – also referred to as “ABC” – was a fashionable way of rendering this fine grape as having had its day. Wine drinkers that claimed, “I love Chablis but would never drink Chardonnay”, clearly did not realise that Chablis is actually made from 100% Chardonnay grapes!

Sour grapes So what has caused this decline in popularity? Think back to Australia’s grand entrance into the UK market some 30 years ago and the wooded Chardonnays that were on offer from the likes of Jacob’s Creek – delightfully fruity, yes, but horribly cloying on the palate due to the misuse of oak and using staves instead of barrels to give the full-bodied hit. Happily, Australian winemakers have come to realise the error of their ways due to a rapid fall in sales, and – having taken lessons from the French – are now making some beautifully balanced Chardonnays. At last, the wine-drinking public are now giving Chardonnay another chance and its popularity is growing, although more particularly so with wines that are marketed as unoaked.

Let the genie out of the bottle One of my current favourites is Ardèche Chardonnay from Louis Latour (famous for their Burgundy classics), however, this brand is from the South of France. Maison Louis Latour decided in the 1970s that they would need to look outside of Burgundy to find alternative sources of high-quality Chardonnay grapes – a bold move at the time, but a very wise decision. The 2015 vintage of this wine has crisp acidity with delicious flavours of green apple and lime freshness. It is a fresh and appealing wine with considerable depth and has a Burgundian quality. I often describe it on restaurant wine lists as “Pure class in a glass”, and – at less than a tenner a bottle – I highly recommend this to every wine drinker who needs to re-ignite their passions with this wonderful, noble grape.

by Wendy Lee Managing Director of Wine de Vine Ltd Wine de Vine Ltd – Wine Merchants 01702 308228 / 07958 600725 e: info@winedevine.co www.winedevine.co

As luck would have it, Wendy says that Chardonnay makes the perfect accompaniment to Creamy Pot Roast Chicken, so head over to page 38 and take a look at Judy Barden’s recipe – then you’ll have all the makings of a very special evening …

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Change a Will after death?

MONEY TALKS

A Will is arguably the most important document you will ever make. After signing their Will, the vast majority of people store their documents in a safe place, confident that no matter what happens, they have a Will and their wishes will be carried out. But what if things change? What if the Law changes? What if your finances (and more importantly your wishes) change dramatically? Signing a Will is a big step towards providing financial security for your family, however an outdated Will that hasn’t taken into account new legislation, exemptions and reliefs or simply that your intended beneficiaries personal circumstances have changed such that it is no longer beneficial for them to receive an inheritance absolutely, can actually leave your beneficiaries with a significant headache. So, is there any way of rectifying an outdated Will after someone has passed away?

Time for a change Deeds of Variation are very powerful documents. They give the beneficiaries of your Will the ability to ‘change’ the distribution of an estate to accurately reflect the wishes of the deceased and ensure that there will not be any negative Inheritance or Capital Gains tax implications on the intended beneficiaries as a result of this ‘redistribution’. This may also allow the beneficiaries to change the distribution of the estate to ensure that additional tax reliefs will apply in the event that the law has changed since the Will (and any Trusts that the estate might be left to) was executed. The introduction of the Residential Nil Rate Band (RNRB) in 2017 sent shockwaves through the world

of Wills and Trusts, many of the legal profession are still in turmoil. To qualify for this new tax allowance your Will needs to ensure that ‘lineal descendants’ (commonly children and grandchildren) receive an interest in your home after your death. Unfortunately, the vast majority of Wills made before 2017 are unlikely to satisfy the various requirements. By using a Deed of Variation, a family can ensure that, if necessary, the RNRB is obtained by ‘redistributing’ a proportion of the estate to the ‘correct’ person (or preferably Trust) to ensure a surviving spouse still retains access to and control of a share of the home.

Conditions may vary Ensuring that your Will is ‘up-to-date’ is always best practice, regular reviews can identify any weaknesses in the planning that you have. However, should you lose the ability, say due to loss of mental capacity, to amend your Will or simply forget to make the necessary changes before you pass away, all is not lost. With the consent of one or more of your beneficiaries, amendments can be made post death to both your Wills and Trusts to ensure that your family are in the best possible position moving forward. For friendly, free advice on all aspects of Estate Planning, including Wills, Trusts, IHT and Probate, please give me a call on: 01702 393838. by Clive Rowe Estate Planning Consultant in association with Countrywide SE LLP

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FOOD

Creamy Pot Roast Chicken with Butternut Squash

Chicken is probably the most widely used meat and sometimes you just need something a little different. You still cook the chicken whole but with a lovely flavoured butter under the skin and a lemon in the cavity. Pot roast it with vegetables and wine and finish it with crème fraîche and tarragon. Enjoy!

Ingredients (serves 4–6):

• 60g butter, softened, plus a knob for frying • 1½ red chillies, 1 deseeded and diced, the ½ thinly sliced

crushed garlic and grated zest of the lemon. Ease the skin away from the chicken breasts with your fingers, starting from the neck end. Spoon in the butter, smoothing the skin with your fingers to cover the breasts evenly. Season the chicken inside and out. Halve the lemon, squeeze the juice inside, then put the halves inside. Tie the legs with string. 2. Put a flameproof casserole over a medium-high heat with the knob of butter and oil. Add the shallot and fry, stirring, for 5 mins until softened. Add the sliced chilli and garlic for the final 2 mins. Add the squash and stir. Nestle the chicken among the veg. Pour over the wine and bubble for 2 mins or until reduced by half. Add stock until halfway up the side of the chicken. Bring to the boil, cover, then cook in the oven for 1 hour.

• Large handful fresh, flatleaf parsley, finely chopped • 4 large garlic cloves, 3 crushed, 1 thinly sliced • 1 lemon • Medium free-range chicken • 2 tbsp olive oil • 8 large shallots, thinly sliced • 620g butternut squash, peeled & cut into wedges • 200ml white wine • 750ml chicken stock, hot • 100ml crème fraîche • Handful of fresh tarragon leaves

3. Uncover, then cook for a further 15–20 mins or until the chicken is cooked through and golden and the juices from the thigh run clear when pierced with a skewer. Remove the chicken to a serving dish to rest, loosely covered with foil.

Method:

by Judy Barden

1. Preheat oven to 200°C/fan 180°C/Gas Mark 6. In a bowl, mix the butter with the diced chilli, parsley,

Next month: Apple & Pecan Cake with Treacle Icing

4. Return the pot to the hob, skim off any surface fat, then bubble for 5 mins to reduce the juices a little. Stir in the crème fraîche, adjust the seasoning, thicken with a little cornflour if too runny. Spoon around the chicken and scatter with tarragon. 5. Carve into pieces at the table and serve with the juices and squash spooned over.

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Advertorial

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October 2017

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Ecorend Ecorend are the UK manufacturer of through coloured render systems. All their renders and render systems can be used to refurbish, maintain and enhance buildings. Ecorend have a solution for all projects from new build to renovation; through coloured renders are low maintenance, easy and quick to apply and have been designed to meet the unpredictable UK weather conditions. Through colour renders can really enhance the façade of a new building or give an existing building a much-needed facelift complimenting brick, timber or glass with our extensive colour range. PGR have several stripped back displays to show how the monocouche can be applied to different surfaces. To visit the showroom, check out PGR Rayleigh’s opening hours: www.pgrtimber.co.uk/branches or call the helpful team on 01268 777600.

01268 334455 e: sales@pgrtimber.co.uk @PGRtimber www.pgrtimber.co.uk October 2017 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

JIM DICKENS

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A breath of fresh air

WELLBEING

Are you breathing right now? Yes. Are you breathing right now in this moment? Possibly. Are you breathing a full, complete, rich breath? The answer is probably NO. In fact, we learn not to breathe from a very young age. Any shock or trauma can literally take our breath away in an instant. The purpose of Transformational Breath is to restore us to what was our birthright in the first place, and by taking a full, deep, connected breath, it is possible to address life more positively and effectively. Transformational Breath is a self-healing technique developed by Judith Kravitz, an American breath practitioner, 25 years ago. She spent many years studying different, powerful breath techniques, including holiotropic breath and rebirthing. She added other modalities to the technique including acupressure and affirmation, thereby creating a selfhealing modality that is second to none. The technique – now widely practiced in many countries, including America, China, France, Italy, Mexico and Turkey, to name but a few – was introduced to England ten years ago and has been gaining in popularity ever since, as people realise how simple and effective it is.

Practising the technique for just 10 minutes a day will help you let go of negative thought patterns, release tension from the body, relax the mind, and find a place of calm within. It also helps you to better understand the emotions that may be impairing your personal growth.

Breathe easy If you want to feel more energised, let go of emotional baggage, or simply want to add another dimension to your spiritual or yoga practice then you may be amazed that all this is available with an easy-to-learn breathing technique – it was right there under your nose all the time! To book a 1-to-1 session, or to just find out more about this brilliant practice, feel free to contact me using the details below.

by Celia Leslie Senior Therapist

Time to catch your breath Transformational Breath is a powerful and safe way to infuse the body with oxygen and energy, recharging our systems to work to their

maximum healing capacity. If you suffer from stress or anxiety, or you seek more creativity in your life or to deepen your relationships, then Transformational Breath is the best and quickest possible way to achieve that by enabling you to reset your breathing patterns in order to enjoy optimum health, mental and emotional clarity, and help you to connect with others, yourself and to life in general.

07900 367355 e: info@alwaysbreathing.com w: alwaysbreathing.com

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October 2017

Your Stove is waiting for you! Photo for illustration purposes only

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October 2017

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October 2017 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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October 2017

October 2017 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

Let Natural Light Shine Through

Lifet Gua ime ra App ntee rove d

It was in 1998 when High-Tech Roofing started advertising the LIFETIME guaranteed flat roof system, we have now installed and guarantee approaching 10,000 flat roofs. We have now installed over 1600 skylights and roof lanterns. Let us, a company you can trust transform any room into a stunning orangery.

All roof lights are designed to customer needs

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A wide range lanterns and skylights are available High-Tech will carry out all structural works All internal finishing and electrics are included All our skylights comply with building regulations Pilkington active self-clean glass as standard All roofing products will have a LIFETIME guarantee

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October 2017

Maximise your natural light with a skylight With every Skylight High-Tech will install the world leading flat roof system. A High-Tech roof is dimensionally stable, solar reflective and is unaffected by climate change. Our roofs are maintenance free and resistant to moss and algae. Brochures and further technical information is available on request. When removing roof structure for roof lanterns steel flitch beams are installed for weight loadings. All roofing and building works are carried out by our own craftsman and all labour and products are guaranteed.

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October 2017 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

CLIMATEC Home Improvements

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October 2017

October 2017 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

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October 2017

INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR DECORATING Painting & Wallpapering

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October 2017

October 2017 www.oraclepublications.co.uk

WHAT’S ON Nearly New Fair FREE Sun 1st October, 10am–1pm. Leigh Community Centre, 73 Elm Road, Southend SS9 1SP. Stalls selling pre-loved, new or nearly new items suitable for babies and young children. Refreshments available, crafts stalls and children’s entertainment. Free parking on Sunday. North Shoebury, Barling & Little Wakering WI Every 1st Monday of the month (excl. bank holidays), 2pm. St Mary’s Church Hall, N. Shoebury Rd (by Asda). All welcome. Concert of Praise with Sing Immanuel and Southend School for Girls FREE Sat 7th October 7–9pm. Thorpe Bay Methodist Church, The Broadway, Thorpe Bay SS1 3AD. Tea and cake available. Retiring collection in aid of charity. Purple Festival & Seafront Fireworks FREE Sat 7th October 3–9pm. Pier Hill State and City Beach Stages host over twenty live bands and musicians. Fireworks start at 7.30pm. For more information visit: www.visitsouthend.co.uk/whatson/1791/Purple-Festival-and-Free-Seafront-Fireworks Homing Show For Cats Protection Southend Sat 14th October, 10.30am–12pm. Shalynn Cattery, 569 Prince Avenue, Westcliff SS0 0JN. All cats are neutered, microchipped, vaccinated and looking for good homes. Children’s Book Festival – Adam Frost Sat 14th October, 11am. Southend Central Library, The Forum, Elmer Avenue, Southend SS1 1NS. Blue Peter Book Award winner Adam Frost heads an epic interactive event. Learn about writing and join in Adults v Kids quiz. Suitable for 7+ years. For information, visit: www.southendlam.eventbrite.com WI Great Wakering Evening Meeting Every 3rd Monday, 8pm. Memorial Hall, High St, Great Wakering SS3 OEF. 16th October - ‘How I met Kylie Minogue’ by Peter Jones. Our Kind of Music Wed 18th October, 7.30pm. Thorpe Bay Bowling Club, Thorpe Bay Gardens, Southend SS1 3HL. Peter Richards will be giving his presentation ‘Who is that Man with Ella?’. Admission £3 including tea, coffee and biscuits. The club bar will also be open for drinks. Dance at Thorpe Bay Yacht Club Fri 20th October, 8pm. 115 Thorpe Bay Gardens, Southend SS1 3NW. Evening of music and dance with live band, ‘Mocking Bird’. Tickets £10. To order tickets, call Wendy on: 01702 870895. Auction in Aid of Cats Protection Southend Sat 21st October, viewing from 2pm. St James Church Hall, Elmsleigh Drive, Leigh SS9 3DP. Refreshments and home-made cakes available. Come along and bid for a bargain. Leigh Travel Club Wed 1st November, 7.30pm–9.30pm. Iveagh Hall, 67 Leigh Road, Leigh SS9 1JW. David Portwain presents a ‘Photographic Journey of Ghana’. For information, please call Lynda on: 01702 475575. Songwriting Competition For 14–18 year olds. Must be based in Southend. All genres. Free recording sessions for winners. Visit: facebook.com/tbyouthstudio

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October 2017

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Advertorial

Destination Shoeburyness High School Shoeburyness High School continues to be the provider of choice for so many of our local young people who wish to continue their education in full-time, Post-16 education. Once again, this year, we have enrolled over 150 students into our Year 12, many of whom are joining us from other schools and areas. So, why is Shoeburyness High School so popular?

Our excellent examination results As our numbers have been rising, our results have been improving too. We have an impressive 95% pass rate at A-level and a 100% pass-rate in vocational qualifications, but what is even more notable is students’ achievement at the very highest grades. There has been a 10% increase in the number of students achieving A*–B grades at A-level, which now stands at 30% of the cohort,

and the average grade in vocational courses across the school now stands at Distinction level. What is most impressive is that this comes at a time of major changes in Post-16 courses, with many of the results coming from brand new qualifications. There were brilliant successes in individual departments too. Art, Textiles and Film Studies all enjoyed an amazing 100% pass rate at A*–C grade at A-level, and in vocational subjects Sport achieved an outstanding 87% pass rate at Distinction*– Distinction with Musical Theatre posting an impressive 70% in the same measure. Achievement in our facilitating subjects (those preferred by the Russell Group Universities) was also commendable, with English Literature, History, Biology and Physics all achieving a 100% pass rate! The students who have continued with their education at Shoeburyness High School in Post-16 this year also achieved something rather special in their GCSE results – in a period of major changes to GCSEs, including the eradication of coursework in favour of 100% examination courses and the new grading systems of 9–1 instead of A*–G,

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October 2017

our students rose to the challenge and achieved outstanding results! In English, our Year 11 students achieved 76% 9–4 grades (A*–C in old money!); in Maths they achieved 65% and in Science they achieved 74%! This also included a 20% rise in the number of higher grades too, making our A*–B grades at GCSE now an impressive 35%. All of which promises further records at A-level in the future.

students with their courses by offering practical advice and techniques to enhance their learning and promote their independence. We also forge links with the workplace and universities in order to provide students with clear steps to take towards their futures, whether in higher education or employment.

Our university success

Don’t just take our word for it – come and see for yourself at our Post-16 Information Evening at 7pm, Thursday 9 November. Join us in the school hall for an explanation of the application process and the various pathways we offer and then talk to our staff and students about the wide range of courses on offer. We know you’ll be impressed!

Against the national trend, at Shoeburyness we are sending more and more successful applicants to university every year. This year, half of our previous Year 13 students will be starting degrees in universities across the country and over half of our present Year 13 students have started the application process for next year too. We give carefully focussed advice and coaching to students, guiding them through the UCAS application process, providing workshops in CV and reference writing and even funding their applications too.

Our great facilities At Shoeburyness High School our Year 12 and 13 students enjoy the best study facilities and largest exclusive work areas in the school. Computer suites dedicated to Post-16 students are available throughout the day, as are our excellent canteen facilities and fitness suite in our local leisure centre.

Our extensive choice We have over 40 different courses to choose from in our Post-16 programmes of study at Shoeburyness High School, ranging from traditional A-level subjects to more creative and vocational courses in BTEC. We also lead the way in Sports Academies in both Basketball and Football, with professional coaching and national competitions. There really is something for everyone and, if you haven’t quite managed to achieve that C grade in English or Maths GCSE, we also offer the opportunity to study for these, alongside your other choices. As well as formal qualifications, we also offer Revision Academy groups, supporting

Come and see for yourself

by William Peel Assistant Headteacher

SOUTHEND EAST COMMUNITY ACADEMY TRUST

Shoeburyness High School 01702 292286 schooloffice@shoeburyness.southend.sch.uk www.shoeburynesshigh.co.uk

STOP PRESS! Parents interested in applying for one of our selective places in Year 7 for their child should come along to one of our

Selective Open Mornings on Monday 16th or Tuesday 17th October for a personal tour of the school, where you can find out what we offer our academically more able students.

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October 2017

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Thorpe Bay Bowling Club Thorpe Bay Bridge Club Thorpe Bay Floral Arrangement Group Thorpe Bay Ladies Thursday Club Thorpe Bay Lawn Tennis Club Thorpe Bay Men’s Forum Thorpe Bay Yacht Club Thorpe Hall Golf Club Tram Stop Shelter Charity