Shrivenham Station Community News
SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
Academy Quilters • Daffy's • The Language Centre
SUMMER 2023
Discounts available to Armed Forces and Diplomatic families An independent boarding school with a safe, happy and supportive environment Book your place for an upcoming open event now lvs.ascot.sch.uk/admissions/open-days or call 01344 882770
Station Welfare Team...
WO1 Mick Mayes Station Welfare Warrant Officer 01793 314791
e: michael.mayes656 @mod.gov.uk
Duty Mobile: 07825 674635
Mrs Rebecca Dunne Families & Welfare Specialist Coordinator 01793 780793
e: Rebecca.dunne@ da.mod.uk
Shrivenham
Station Community News
Station Commander's Foreword
Welcome to the Summer Edition of the Shrivenham Community News.
Whilst the first warmer days of Summer flattered to deceive given the extended unsettled weather continuing to the end of May (so far!), a change of season is nevertheless still upon us as well as a change in monarch.
Ms Donna Gardner Families & Welfare Lead Administrator 01793 780793
e: Donna.gardner@ da.mod.uk
michael.mayes656@mod.gov.uk
01793 314791
Shrivenham Station Welfare Officer
Jubilee Community Centre
Defence Academy of the United Kingdom
Shrivenham SN6 8LA
Please Remember
Items for inclusion in the Autumn edition may be submitted at any time but must be received by 7th August 2023 for publication at the end of the month.
Advertising: Jayne Bailey
Lance Media Group Ltd
Tel: (01536) 334219
Email: jayne@lancemediagroup.co.uk
The Station Coronation event was a wonderful opportunity for the One Academy and its families to get together and celebrate the historic event of the crowning of King Charles III and Queen Camilla with live bands, traditional British food, entertainment for the children (and grown ups!) and fireworks to finish. This involved a tremendous amount of hard work from WO1 Spencer BelcherMarks and his team, but was thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated by those who attended. I was also very happy to attend and lend Station support to the Party on the Rec at the Shrivenham Recreation Ground which seemed equally successful.
Beyond the ongoing infrastructure and Estates work mentioned in the last issue, it is worthwhile to mention the challenge of dealing with Ash Dieback disease on the Shrivenham Defence Estate. Whilst the destruction of ash tree integrity due to this fungal disease, causing them to fall over without warning, is of nationwide concern, the Shrivenham Station estate is heavily wooded, with a significant proportion of affected ash trees. Communication will be sent out through a number of channels, and signage raised, as part of a wider action plan
to raise awareness and minimise the risk that affect trees present, through falling trees and debris: I would be most grateful for everyone to engage with, and observe, this direction accordingly. In the meantime, wooded areas on site should be avoided, particularly in extremes of weather, and parents should be cautious regarding young children who like to climb trees.
As the summer comes, so does the end of many of the long courses that reach their end at the close of the academic year. As well as wishing you all a well-earned summer break when it comes, I wish all those graduating this summer, and their families, all the very best for the future, wherever that may be.
CO Wg Cdr Gavin Thomas RAF
3 SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS SUMMER 2023
COVER IMAGE: Courtesy of Shutterstock.com
pages 14 & 15
FRONT
See
Shrivenham Station Welfare House
Shrivenham Station has 4 two-bedroom Welfare (Contact) Houses located on the Watchfield Estate on Folly Crescent (Post Code SN6 8SH). The houses can be used by Shrivenham Station PS and all Students, as a lower priority; external Military ID Card holders, Civil Servants and Contractors with a DMR Pass.
The Jubilee Community Centre
These houses are controlled by Shrivenham Station Welfare Officer. The Welfare Houses are not to be used as permanent accommodation and will only be booked for short term stays. The maximum length of occupation is 14 nights in any 28 night period. In very exceptional circumstances the Welfare Houses may be allocated for longer.
The Jubilee Community Centre provides facilities for Service Personnel and their families from both the United Kingdom and Overseas together with all other Station Personnel.
Bookings will be prioritised allocation priority as follows:
Emergency Welfare Cases.
Children’s visits for divorced/separated personnel. Visits by Wives/Husbands/Partners/Children to unaccompanied PS and Students on long courses.
Visits to Students on short or non-residential courses.
Other family visits.
Transit Accommodation during transition between assignments.
The cost of hiring the Welfare Houses is as follows:
A, B, and C: £12.00 per night.
D, E, and F: £25.00 per night.
For more information contact the Welfare Team on 01793 780793.
The Jubilee Centre is the home of the Station Welfare Officer, Welfare Warrant Officer, two Serco Staff members. We also have our very own Army Welfare Service - Community Development Worker Jayne Russell located within the centre, be sure to stop by and say ‘hello’. The JCC has two ‘soft play’ areas for young children (under 1metre in height and crawlers) whilst parents can enjoy refreshments from the Coffee Shop which is run by ESS.
The idea behind the centre is to give families (and of course staff and students) a place to meet old and new friends and families of different nationalities in a friendly and personal environment. Several activities are hosted in the JCC, including a few voluntary led events, coffee mornings, play sessions and more. We are also fortunate to be visited regularly by supporting agencies; DAFFYs, Home Start, Pinnacle, Vivo and Serco to name a few.
All activities and events are well advertised and are held for the benefit of the families of Shrivenham Station. Full details of all activities and other events of interest can be found on the JCC notice boards and TV. The JCC is available for private functions (children’s parties a speciality) for a small hire charge to Defence Academy Pass Holders.
The JCC is located just outside the main entrance to the Station on Faringdon Road, the staff have a wealth of knowledge and can also provide details regarding local facilities and amenities.
The JCC is open 0730 - 1600hrs Monday to Thursday and 07301200hrs Friday.
The Soft Play Areas are open 0830 - 1515hrs Monday to Thursday and 08301200hrs Friday.
If you have ideas or are looking to start an activity, please contact the Families and Welfare Team on 01793 780793
We look forward to meeting you soon!
4 SUMMER 2023 THE JUBILEE COMMUNITY CENTRE
A B C D E F
The Jubilee Community Centre Sensory Room
At the end of April, the JCC were handed back an area within the building which was being used as a storeroom. The obvious choice was to continue using it as a storeroom and forgetting what was behind the door, however the Welfare Team wanted to create a space which could give back to the families of Shrivenham Station.
And so, with this in mind it was decided unanimously that a sensory space would be created.
Although not huge, the space will allow station families to take some time out with their little ones, focus on stimulation and sensory-motor skills.
They can listen to sounds, watch the lights, touch, and feel different fabrics and textures, play with a selection of interactive toys and books, or just sit and enjoy the calming space and relax.
For more information, please speak to a member of the Welfare Team.
5 SUMMER 2023
THE JUBILEE COMMUNITY CENTRE
a storeroom.... ..... to a fabulous Sensory Room
The sensory room is available to all and will be open in conjunction with soft play timings – Monday to Thursday
From
Are you looking for a way to Help Out?
The 1st Watchfield & Shrivenham is a thriving Scout Group providing activities for boys and girls aged from 6 to 14 years. Over 100 local families are involved, and many have military connections. Our aim is to give young people challenges and opportunities to help them build skills for life. It can be just as much fun and just as rewarding for adult volunteers.
We have a great team of volunteers with a wide range of backgrounds and would love to have some new adult volunteers to help us provide more children with a place in Scouting.
You don’t have to have lots of
experience to help out. You don’t have to camp every weekend or do long hikes if that’s not your thing, although if you do want to do that, then great! There is a huge variety of activities across the age ranges, all of which help to equip young people with skills for life. Whether you can give a little time or a lot of time, we can find a way for you to help out. All you need to volunteer is some enthusiasm and the ability to work as part of a team.
So, whether you see yourself inspiring a love of the outdoors and adventure, or would prefer to help run a fundraising jumble sale or a barbecue, we would love to hear from you.
6 SUMMER 2023 SCOUTS 1ST WATCHFIELD & SHRIVENHAM
Find out how you can help out by contacting: Helen, the Group Scout Leader (helenwright@kascouts.org.uk) or Rachel,
(wsgroupchair@outlook.com)
the Chair of the Board of Trustees
7 SUMMER 2023 SCOUTS 1ST WATCHFIELD & SHRIVENHAM
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Tel: 01367 709249
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Vale Garage
Vale Garage Service Centre offers MOT testing, repairs, servicing and diagnostics. We do anything from tyres to brakes, batteries and exhausts.
Vale Garage car and van sales is an independent retailer supplying low milage used cars and vans in the local area of Oxforshire, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and Berkshire.
For vehicles outside the manufacturers warranty we offer a fully comprehensive warranty. All vehicles are serviced up to date when sold.
Service telephone: 01367 710 777
Sales telephone: 01367 710 100
Forecourt Location: Vale Garage, Faringdon Road, Stanford in the Vale, nr Faringdon, Oxfordshire SN7 8NN. Email: valegarage@hotmail.co.uk Website: www.valegarage.com
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Want to buy local organic veg? Come to
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Open 24/7 we sell our own veg and local eggs all certified Organic
Cash or Bank Transfer
Between Watchfield and Highworth, SN6 8TH
8 SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
SUMMER 2023
Tailored car insurance to meet the needs of the Military family Full cover on and off the base Laid up cover Compatible with BFG/GEO VLO & DVLA requirements Our insurer accepts No Claims Discount earned outside of the UK T&Cs apply. See policy documents towards the bottom of the forcesmutual.org/car webpage. Call 0151 363 5290 Visit forcesmutual.org/car Lines are open: Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm. Forces Mutual Car Insurance is provided by Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Ltd. *The 10% discount is available online only. It is
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Military Wives Choir Defence Academy
The first was an 80th birthday party in the local village of Bishopstone. The repertoire for the event included ‘’Amazing Grace’’, which was specially selected as a favourite of the octogenarian. Other numbers included Cold Play’s ‘’Fix You’’, ‘’Human’’ by the Killers and Leonard Cohen’s classic hit ‘’Hallelujah’’. The entertainment was rounded off with a rendition of Happy Birthday in three parts. Feedback received from the party organiser was extremely positive: ‘’Everyone just loved it and we managed to keep it a surprise…
People were tapping their feet to the music which is always a good sign.’’
Next up was a Parachute Regimental Association Lunch at Sandford Springs Hotel near Newbury where a select group of our choir sang a half hour set including the ever popular MWC numbers such as ‘’Carry Me’’ and ‘’We will Remember Them’’ before being treated to a lovely lunch. We received a rapturous applause and a thank you letter from the organiser who later said, ‘’A most stunning performance, which singularly enhanced the entire event…the programme was superbly chosen and executed.’’ March and April were quieter months but we were extremely busy behind the scenes beavering away in preparation for three big events. May saw us take part in the Shrivenham Station Coronation celebrations. Sporting red, white and blue, we sang our hearts out on this momentous occasion. Despite the damp weather, we brought sunshine to the event with ‘’Mr Blue Sky’’
and other upbeat numbers such as Queen’s ‘’Somebody to Love’’. It was a fitting and memorable way to celebrate the Coronation. A special mention must go to our wonderful soloists who sang beautifully.
As the choral calendar sadly starts to draw to a close before the summer recess and the inevitable turnover of our members, our attention is now focussing on our last two big events. Rehearsals are in full swing for a joint concert at St. Woolos Cathedral in Newport celebrating ‘Women in Song’ where we will join ‘Bangor Ladies’ Choir’ from Northern Ireland and ‘Allegra’ from Wales. It promises to be a spectacular evening.
And finally, we will be hosting our very own summer concert on Thursday 29 June at St. Alban’s Church in Watchfield starting at 1830hrs. It will be a fun-filled evening of music and song and a fitting end to our choral year. Entry is free and there will be a raffle and refreshments available. We look forward to seeing you there!
Emma Sharp
10 SUMMER 2023
MWC
February was a busy month as we busily prepared for two events.
All abilities are welcome No auditions or previous experience is required. Check us out on our social media accounts:
Facebook: Defence Academy Military Wives Choir
Twitter: @DefenceAcad_MWC
Instagram: da_military_wives_choir
Contact us at: defenceacademy@militarywiveschoirs. org
The DAMWC is currently 30+ members strong and we are growing!
We are a lively group and meet on Monday between 1030-1200hrs at the Jubilee Community Centre and Thursdays between 1930-2130hrs at St. Alban’s Church.
11 SUMMER 2023 MWC
The MWC is for spouses and partners of military personnel, servicewomen and support staff of the Defence Academy and the surrounding area.
Mid-Week Magic Menu
2 for £22 - Tues, Wed, Thurs - GF available
Quiz Night Tuesdays
8.00pm, Max 6 to a Team - £50 Bar Tab to Win!
Weekend Breakfast
Fri, Sat & Sun, 8am to 12pm - GF available Sunday Lunch
Every Sunday - 12.30 - 3.30pm - V, VE & GF available
Opening Hours from:
12pm Mon-Thurs | 8am Fri, Sat & Sun
Kitchen Open
Breakfast: 8am - 12pm Fri-Sun
Lunch: 12-2.30pm Tues - Sat
Dinner: 6-8.30pm Tues - Sat Sunday Lunch: 12.30-3.30pm
Tel: 01793 784692 to book
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Pressed for Time Cleaning Services
MARCH OUT CLEANING
Military Standards Each & Every Time We Go To Work.
Pressed for Time Cleaning Services is run by Samantha Allen, an RAF wife who has been helping military personnel pass the Accommodation Officer’s March Out inspection since 2015.
1st hand understanding of the March Out process Trouble free moving Military standards every time we clean Pass your inspection, no failure fees
You don’t have to book a professional cleaner for March Out, but when you do, you’ll get added peace of mind.
Visit our website to find out more: pressedfortimecleaning.co.uk or call Sam on 01865 346388 / 07517 210647
Email: samallen@pressedfortimecleaning.co.uk
March out - Understanding the process
As part of a military family myself I understand how confusing and unsettling the March Out process can be, especially if moving overseas. I hope I can make the process easier for you, with this advice.
March Out timeline
4 – 2 weeks before March Out
Soon after you receive your March Out date and instructions, the Accommodation Officer visits your home. They will produce a detailed list of cleaning jobs needing to be done before you can leave.
At this point
Reserve your method of transportation to your new property for the DAY OF your March Out. You may need to book flights if you’re leaving the country.
Do you own the furniture? If so, now is the time to book the removals for TWO DAYS BEFORE you leave. Agility Logistics Ltd is the MOD approved service provider.
Book your March Out clean for the DAY BEFORE you leave. As this is a very detailed clean, it’s worth finding a professional to ensure you pass your final inspection and incur no fees if you don’t pass.
The day before March Out
A March Out clean requires an empty property and usually takes a full day to complete to a passing standard. The Accommodation Officer will inspect again on the day of March Out.
It is likely you’ll be without the majority of personal belongings for two days while removals and cleaning take place. Don’t be tempted to avoid this by booking the clean for your last day, this will result in an inefficient clean and risks not passing final inspection.
The Pinnacle Service Families website has lots of information when it comes to moving away. In the meantime, I wish you all the best for a successful March Out.
SamAllen,PressedforTimeCleaningServices
SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS 12 SUMMER 2023
Freehouse Serving Good Ales and Good Homecooked Food MOD 15% off
SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS 13 SUMMER 2023 ROVES-REARED & LOCAL PRODUCE ROASTING JOINTS | SAUSAGES | BURGERS | BACON | MUTTON | CHICKEN | MEAT BOXES HANDMADE CAKES | ARTISAN BREADS | CHEESE & DAIRY | FRESH EGGS | FRUIT & VEG | WINE, BEER & SPIRITS IN-STORE & ONLINE OPEN DAILY 9 - 5 Sevenhampton | Swindon | SN6 7QG | @rovesfarmshop Farm Shop, Butchery & Café www.rovesfarm.co.uk ~ From our fields to your fork ~ www.rovesfarm.co.uk Sevenhampton | Swindon | SN6 7QG | @rovesfarm Sat 12 Aug Sat 26 Aug Sat 29 July Character days PAW Patrol Pirates & Princesses Mad Hatters Tea Party Interactive Shows Woodland Crafts 26 July - 31 Aug Nature Detectives Summer at Roves Farm Meet & greet & lots more! Den Building Interactive Stories Bug Hunting Activity Trail
THANK HEAVENS FOR THE ACADEMY QUILTERS!
I was thrilled to receive acknowledgement of my posting to Shrivenham plus getting on the DA course I really wanted. My friend was a bit envious, stating that there was a pool, an artist group and The Academy Quilters. That was me all set up… got packed, assured parents that I had study and relaxation things all in place. Learnt the hard way just how important and vital to me and my studies, healthy relaxation is to the mind and the body.
Messaged ahead and got myself booked into the patchwork group, was delighted that the tutor was prepared to go the extra mile and fit things around my studies. Gutted to find the pool was no more and the art group had disappeared too.
So….when I say “thank heavens for the quilters group” it is done with a most grateful hand on heart. Being able to be part of that group, albeit only cyber wise, saved my sanity and got me through my studies. The tutor was amazing, late night sessions, project and techniques explained, encouragement and support given whenever I hit a bit of a low, even had her help on choosing the right machine for me, how and where to buy fabric online etc.
Being able to set up the sewing machine in my room, make my family their quilts and Christmas stockings was soooo satisfying. Was able to chill out, relax and refresh myself for the course studies.
Just proved to myself once again, how vital it was, having some creative, relaxing occupation factored into my time. I so enjoyed my cyber time with my tutor, I learnt heaps, gained skills that I
promised her I would “pass on” and due to her suggestions, did some family research and found I had quite a few amazing pioneer quilters way back on my family tree….that was quite exciting and explained why I was so pleased to find a quilt group at the Defence Academy.
Can’t see myself coming back to the UK for a long time….. relocated back to home now with academic mission accomplished and the biggest bonus being, I left with sewing and patchwork skills I can use and now teach my daughters and wonderful memories of the sweetest, most patient tutor ever.
I must confess to feeling a bit envious of those who could actually attend in person sessions but oh so grateful the tutor went that extra mile for me and my sanity and well being. I promised to stay in touch and will be getting her help with setting up my own quilt group, something that I am extra excited about.
I leave you with this thought…. it doesn’t matter if you can’t sew, just get yourself along to the patchwork group and learn, you will have so much fun plus, you will have quilts, friends and useful skills by the relocation time comes around again.
One of the best decisions I’ve ever made, thank you so much academy quilters and especially to my dear cyber tutor. You are a “one off”, loved your plan bs, appreciated your support, your listening and the skill gift you have given me. Good luck to all the new quilters, you will be in for a treat.
Using hand-dyed fabrics and net overlays has resulted in a stunning creation.
Happy plan b of using the black diamonds, made the Grandmother flower hexagons really "pop"
Achieving such excellent results as shown here, shows that the quilter practised, practised and practised.
Peaceful moments doing hand quilting have resulted in this pretty and traditional quilt panel. Great to see the pattern appear as the quilting is being done.
‘‘I leave you with this thought….it doesn’t matter if you can’t sew, just get yourself along to the patchwork group and learn, you will have so much fun plus, you will have quilts, friends and useful skills by the relocation time comes around again’’
COMMUNITY SUMMER 2023 14
E.JL.
Redwork. A much loved technique used by quilters for years. A peaceful ‘slow stitching’ method that can be added to quilts and wall hangings.
Being able to portray a favourite view, using well-chosed textile fabrics, is a joy many quilters experience. A most pleasing result, beautifully finished with hand quilting.
Mixing two techniques, bias outline and stained glass work applied to a neatly machine stippled background. Another success for a very please quilter.
Really neat hand applique for this traditional quilt panel. Perfect leaf points achieved and an interesting and effect colour combination used.
Good luck to all the new quilters, you will be in for a treat.
COMMUNITY SUMMER 2023
Rice stitch block, work very well together.
SPRING 2023 16 SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS SUMMER 2023
17 SPRING 2023 SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS SUMMER 2023
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18 SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS SUMMER 2023
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Padre Phil Writes...
By now I’m sure you have rolled up the bunting for another year, folded the gingham tablecloths away, and scoffed the last of the scones with cream and jam (or is that jam and cream…). May was a month to celebrate togetherness, unity and community through the coronation of our new King.
It was a remarkable event for many reasons. Firstly, for spectacle of pomp and pageantry that Britain does so well. But secondly, because of how long it took to get to that moment.
In 1958 our new King Charles III became Prince of Wales. This was when he was 9 years old. Can you imagine knowing you would be the next king when you were 9 years old. When I was 9 years old I wore a shell suit and wanted to be a tree. That’s a big responsibility for someone so young to carry. And it is an even bigger responsibility to carry this for most of your life. For the next 64 years Charles was waiting for his destiny, his moment, and his time. Again, can you imagine what it must be like
to wait 64 years for something. I can barely wait until lunchtime before getting stuck into my cucumber sandwiches. That was a lifetime of waiting.
And now, at 74 years old, our new monarch is Britain’s oldest crowned King. That’s a long time to wait to fulfil your destiny.
King Charles had to wait for his destiny, but the wonderful thing is that we don’t have to wait that long. Too often we wait too long to do the things that are truly important in life, and we spend more time doing things that are really not that important. Sometimes we can become confused and distracted by what is really important.
Before I joined the military, I worked as a hospital chaplain. I was often at people’s bedsides as they departed this world. And not once did anyone ever say to me, “I just wished I’d sent a few more emails…”, “I just wish I’d stayed later in the office each night…”, or “I just wish I’ve given up more weekends to get ahead with work…”. But everyone always said, “I just wish I’d spent time with those that truly matter. I just wish I’d spent the time with those I love. I just wish I’d told them how much they meant to me”.
We don’t need to wait 64 years before we can fulfil our destiny. We can do it today. Tell those around you that you love them. Do the things that bring you joy. Take the
opportunities that will never come again. We don’t need to live our lives waiting. As Captain Jean Luc Picard said, “Make now the most precious time. Now will never come again”.
SUMMER 2023 20
PADRE WRITES
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Everyone who attends English lessons regularly can expect: · to become more confident and fluent in spoken English · to improve their listening skills · to learn lots of new vocabulary · to make considerable progress in their understanding of grammar
We achieve this by working our way through a coursebook. We also use games, role-plays and short presentations to make learning more effective and enjoyable. Most of our work is in pairs or small groups.
The lessons are fun and sociable as we believe this is the best environment in which to learn. In addition to improving your English, the classroom is a great place to make new friends and find out about other countries and their cultures.
Students can join our English classes at any time, and we
welcome visiting students. Both group and private lessons are available to suit all abilities, from beginner through to advanced.
Students can elect to sit diploma examinations in English from the Cambridge Examination board on completion of their courses and we also run exam preparation lessons.
The Language Centre is open during the day for English classes and in the evening for foreign language tuition. Find us at 7 Axis Road, opposite St Alban’s Church.
For more information, call us on: 01793 784881 or email: languagecentre7@ gmail.com
1:1 Tuition
We offer students 1:1 English and Foreign Language tuition with the option to be taught in the privacy of your own home.
22 SUMMER 2023 COMMUNITY
The Language Centre offers ‘English as a Foreign Language’ to the dependants and families of international officers attending courses at the Defence Academy. We also provide tuition in French, Spanish, German and Italian to families across the entire Shrivenham Station site and the local community.
Bespoke
us on languagecentre7@gmail.com or drop in and speak to us
you.
Email
about how we can help
Crafty Mornings and outings!
One of the loveliest things about the Language Centre for us is that we have people from so many different countries and they all have wonderful stories, skills and food to share with us. But it is also a wonderful opportunity to share with them, our British celebrations, customs and countryside.
Goodbye!
As we come closer to the end of the Summer term, we’re bracing ourselves to say a sad farewell to this year’s English students. We hope you all enjoyed your time here with the Language Centre and hope to hear of all your continued successes.
We’re also saying a sad goodbye to three of our wonderful staff. Our French Beginners teacher Bex and the Spanish teacher Helen will leaving us to distant shores as well as Anna, our Administrator, who leaves us to pastures new. We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to you all for your hard work and wish you all the very best for the future!
Easter
This term we enjoyed some simple Easter crafts of egg decoration and needlework to create some flare as we welcomed in Spring and enjoyed the Easter holidays.
Coronation Celebrations
We celebrated the Coronation of King Charles III with a ‘Bring a Coronation Cake’ morning, wearing red, white and blue and testing our students with a ‘King’s Quiz’ to really see how much they knew about the British Royal Family!
23 SUMMER 2023 COMMUNITY
Bluebells Beautiful
From time to time we take our classes out and about on a ‘walk ‘n’ talk’ outing; to discover the local sights and beautiful countryside. This term we visited Badbury Clump and took in the wonderful sights of the English bluebells in full flower followed by refreshments at the local tea shop.
24 SUMMER 2023
25 SUMMER 2023 SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS FERNHAM SN7 7NX 01367 820 643 www.TheWoodmanFernham.co.uk Charming 17th century country pub just 2 miles from Faringdon Delicious seasonal menus Cask conditioned ales, craft beers, wine & cocktails Dog friendly Minibus pick up for tables of 8+ The Woodman Bespoke Guide Advert v1.indd 1 06/05/2021 13:34 admissions@doyrms.com www.doyrms.com 01304 245073 A co-educational boarding school for students aged 11-18 VISIT US TODAY Outstanding facilities, an all-round education and endless opportunities await you at The Duke of York’s Royal Military School. Our a ordable full-boarding school, open to 11-18-year-olds, significantly outperformed GCSE national attainment (2022). Students benefit from excellent teaching, a comprehensive curriculum, and a vast breadth of activities beyond the classroom. Begin your Dukie journey today; private tours available by appointment. PrintDesignAdvertisingPublishing To Advertise in this publication please contact Jayne Bailey on 01536 334219 or email jayne@lancemediagroup.co.uk • Weddings & Events • Funeral & Sympathy • Corporate LECHLADE, COTSWOLDS 01367 707070 blueandbohemeflorist@outlook.com • Bouquets & Blooms • Dried Flowers & Arrangements • Plants & Pots @blueandboheme
Small Arms Range Visit
18 May 2023
Serco Staff from Support Services recently had the opportunity to attend the Small Arms Range at the DA
Upon arrival they met with WO2 Gerhard Olivier and his team, a safety brief took place and ear plugs, and ear defenders were issued to all – at this point (for some, if not all) the adrenaline started pumping as it became real and that in a matter of minutes, we would be firing weapons with live rounds.
WO2 Olivier gave an overview of each weapon, explained it’s background, country of origin and where it is used today – if still in circulation.
We then had a demo of the weapon in action and then all eyes were draw on the first victim, to which Hugh was very willing ??
Staff had the opportunity to fire 4 weapons in all, starting off with a standard calibre weapon and ending with a 762 Machine Gun. Weapons fired were:
H&K MP5 SD – Gas Propelled CETME Model L (German) SLR FN FAL 762 (Belgium) MG 762, 551
With each weapon came a more intense recoil, not to mention a greater sound of the fired shot – hence the need for double ear protection.
All staff fired at the same target and 47 of the 81 shots fired (minus the MG) hit the target!
All in all, a great time was had by all!
Some of the feedback received by those attended:
26 SUMMER 2023
SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS SUMMER 2023
Community Services
Clubs & Organisations
Medical Services
28 SUMMER 2023
Useful Contacts
WO1 Mick Mayes 01793 314791 Station Welfare Warrant Officer Mrs Rebecca Dunne 01793 780793 Families & Welfare Coordinator Ms Donna Gardner 01793 780793 Families and Welfare Lead Admin Military Provost Guard Service 01793 785612(MPGS) 785617 Jayne Russell 07779973446 Community Development Jayne.Russell133@mod.gov.uk Worker Padre Phil Craven 01793 314161/ Mobile 07977 479866 Email: Philip.craven@da.mod.uk Leigh Hyde, 01793 314033 /mobile: 07920162664 Chaplaincy Coordinator leigh.hyde@da.mod.uk
Shrivenham Station Medical Centre 01793 785552 Shrivenham Station Dental Centre 01793 785223 Elm Tree Surgery, Shrivenham Village 01793 782207 Fernhill Practice, Faringdon 01367 242407 White Horse Practice, Faringdon 01367 242388 Westrop Surgery, Highworth 01793 762218 Great Western Hospital, Swindon 01793 604020 John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford 01865 741166 Highworth Dental Surgery 01793 762231 Faringdon Dental Surgery 01367 240514 Graham Jones Pharmacy 01793 783336 Vets Drove Veterinary Hospital 01793 522483
DAFFYS dadaffys@gmail.com Shrivenham Station Saddle Club 01793 785489 www.shrivenhamsaddleclub.co.uk Scouts cn@wands.org.uk www.kascouts.org.uk/wands Defence Academy Golf Club 01793 785725 Girlguiding Tuckmill ( Watchfield & Shrivenham) (Rainbows, Brownies, Guides,Rangers, Volunteering) contact jahollick1@gmail.com Defence Academy Military Wives Choir defenceacademy@militarywiveschoirs.org Academy Quilters 01793 762278 Local Services Shrivenham Village Post Office 01793 782260 Watchfield Village Hall 01793 782234 or 783157 Education Shrivenham Station Language Centre 01793 784881 Alfresco Child Care 01793 790263 The Barn Kindergarten 01793 782182 Old Station Nursery 01367 243800 Watchfield Primary School 01793 782623 Shrivenham CE Primary School 01793 782406 Longcot & Fernham Primary School 01793 782381 Shellingford Primary School 01367 710301 Faringdon Community College 01367 240375 Cranfield University Switchboard 01793 785810 Miscellaneous Main Gate Reception 01793 788270 JSCSC Reception (Main Foyer) 01793 788000 SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
www.gordons.school
YEARS 7, 9 AND 12 BOARDING PLACES AVAILABLE
Students who attend the boarding school provision exceed their predicted outcomes and consistently reach, and further, their potential OFSTED BOARDING INSPECTION REPORT 2019
BESPOKE RESIDENTIAL BOARDING HOUSE FOR YEAR 7 STUDENTS
BOARDING FROM UNDER £700 PER TERM WITH CEA
NON-SELECTIVE LOWER SCHOOL • PRIORITY PLACES FOR FORCES
please visit www.gordons.school
BOARDING IN SURREY GORDON’S SCHOOL
Open Events
For
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For the past 20 years I have helped numerous Service families to complete their Tax Returns. I live in Shrivenham which means I am able to meet new clients at short notice. I offer a fast and efficient service at reasonable rates.
For further information, please contact: LOUISE SLATER BSc, FCMA on: Tel: 01793 783332
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Behind the bar you will find a broad range of Local Cask Ales to choose from, an excellent range of Local and Continental craft beer, a wide selection of Gins, a great selection of Wines and spirits to suit all palettes. We are proudly recognised in CAMRA’s (Campaign for Real Ale) Good Beer Guide for the second year running.
The Beer Garden has plenty of seating along with stunning views over the Vale of The White Horse. Inside there is a lovely relaxed bar atmosphere. The pub also boasts two dining rooms for your syndicate
gatherings, intimate evenings or for any special celebration.
Overall we are a Traditional Country Pub, with this we take pride with our Pub Classics Menu. From our ever popular Fish & Chips through to a range of Pies and Burgers, along with delicious wellrenowned Sunday Roasts.
Keep an eye on our social media for future events, from Comedy Nights, Live Music and our themed monthly Pub Quiz.
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opportunity
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30 SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS SUMMER 2023
YOU CAN’T BEAT AN ANDREWS BBQ THIS SUMMER LOOK OUT FOR OUR GREAT DEALS ON BBQ CLASSICS .......................................................................................... Food to go
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