Absolutely Sussex February 2024

SUSSEX

Sussex FEBRUARY 2024 / £3.95

PLU S MODEL LANDLADY

Jodie Kidd on running The Half Moon in Kirdford •

SPECIA L News and views from the county's best schools

PERMIT ROOM

FEBRUARY 2024

The Brighton restaurant from the founders of Dishoom •

VINTAGE AFFAIR

Inside a 1960s inspired Haywards Heath home

Passion

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EDITOR MARK KEBBLE ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA SENIOR DESIGNERS MIKE ROBERTS SUZETTE SCOBLE MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER CARMEN GRAHAM JUNIOR DESIGNER JOE MUNSEY

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ABSOLUTELY

Contents FEBRUARY 2024

38

56 16

C U LT U R E AGENDA

50 HEALTH INSPIRATION

JODIE KIDD

INTERIORS 56 REAL HOME

Two pages of the best in fitness and wellbeing in 2024

Star Wars and movie royalty are on the bill

18

Drinking with the landlady of The Half Moon

The vintage inspired Haywards Heath home loved by photographers

23 SOPHIE MORTON-THOMAS The Chichester author on her local favourites

FOOD & DRINK 30 PERMIT ROOM

Dishoom's founders open in Brighton

35 TOP 5

For your coffee hit

FA S H I O N & B E AU T Y 38 THE SHOOT In the red with Roman Horsham

43 JEWELLERY

Nine pieces to leave you star struck

30

61

LIGHTING

If walls could talk... they'd pick any one of these lights

63 TREND

The best dressed tables

E D U C AT I O N S P E C I A L 66 FLEXIBLE CLASSROOMS Innovative teaching at Sussex prep school, Windlesham House

69 TALKING HEAD

Individuality at Brighton College

A B S O L U T E LY M AG A Z I N E S .C O M

The online guide to inspirational living that helps you stay one step ahead of the crowd and gives you the chance to win exclusive prizes.

O N T H E C OV E R Roman Originals (roman.co.uk)

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Editor’s

LETTER ABSOLUTELY’S February issue highlights

1

Lego Play

The building bricks of education (p74)

2

University of Brighton Why they are flying high (p71)

I

n my late teens, I had a dream. No, not a career in journalism, but to run a pub. I was embracing being the age to legally stroll into a pub nonchalantly and order a pint, without the fear of being asked for my rather flimsy looking fake ID. I was also obsessed with the TV show, Men Behaving Badly, which featured many a drunken night down The Crown. I thought, I'd love some of that.

Even before the pandemic ripped through the hospitality industry, I now realise my folly.

Running a pub is really hard and expensive work, so I will stick to enjoying the ordering.

But it's why I am in awe of Jodie Kidd.

The Sussex model – although the catwalk isn't at the top of her priorities any more – took over The Half Moon in Kirdford, determined to keep this popular watering hole a key part of the local community. Some seven years later and she has worked through said pandemic, plus a host of other hurdles, to be the proud landlady of a pretty perfect pub. We took a seat at the bar this month to find out about her journey from fashion to pulling pints.

Talking about dreams, this month is also our education special, hopefully to inspire some teens out there before popping into seeing their careers advisor – although Jodie's story may just swing them the same way as me.

5

Jodie Kidd On life as the landlady of The Half Moon (p18)

4 Trend

The pick of the best wall lights out there (p76)

MARK KEBBLE EDITOR

3

Local Q&A

Sophie Morton-Thomas's favourite locations (p23)

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Wish LIST

N AT U R E LOV E R For SS24, Balmain revealed a collection full of floral shapes and motifs. This petal-like skirt pairs with a leaf-green tailored jacket with contrasting sharp lines. balmain.com

ST I TC H U P Penelope Chilvers' India Hicks Grove suede embroidered boot is handmade from sustainably sourced Italian oiled suede with authentic Western embroidery triple stitch throughout, £369. penelopechilvers.com

PUSH IT Hay's green scalloped-edged trolley is a stylish and useful addition as a bar cart or just a statement side table, £255. selfridges.com

10 things we Absolutely love

GREEN LIGHT Monc's wide selection of spectacles offers the perfect frame for every face shape. From round to square shapes and subtle to strong frames, there is a style for everyone. monclondon.com

EDITOR’S PICK

COMPILED BY

PENDLE HARTE

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

STEM SELLS Forget dry January and sip from Catherine Martin's sophisticated coupe glasses designed exclusively for Anthropologie, £56 for four. anthropologie.com

EYE SPY Messy Weekend's goggles feature anti-fog, anti-scratch coating, 100% UV400 protection and easy magnetic lens change. Choose between the high-contrast XE2 lens for enhanced clarity in varied landscapes or the photochromic XEp lens that adapts to changing weather conditions. messyweekend.co.uk

PA S S O U T If you want to visit the UK’s incredible museums, cutting-edge galleries, and swoon-worthy historic houses, there’s one simple item you need: an Art Pass. artfund.org

NEW DROP

IN SEASON

IN THE SHADE The Adidas Originals eyewear collection marks an intersection of sport and street style seen through the lens of culture. £129 specsavers.co.uk

Winter sun incoming? Look to Amelie's Follies for a personalised bikini fitting. ameliesfollies.co.uk

Earsass is a small earring brand with gorgeous, 18k gold-plated or plant-based lightweight designs.

The affordable collection is available with clip-on or pierced styles, one of which was recently worn by Princess Kate. earsass.com

IT'S A WRAP In celebration of 25 years in Japan, Dyson has introduced the Ceramic Pop colourway for the Airwrap and all hair tools. dyson.com

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C U LT U R E

ALL OF US STRANGERS 16-21 FEBRUARY, CHICHESTER CINEMA AT NEW PARK

One night in his near-empty tower block in contemporary London, Adam (Andrew Scott) has a chance encounter with a mysterious neighbour Harry (Paul Mescal). As a relationship develops between them, Adam is preoccupied with memories of the past and finds himself drawn back to the suburban town where he grew up, and the childhood home where his parents (Claire Foy and Jamie Bell) appear to be living, just as they were on the day they died, 30 years before. chichestercinema.org

Agenda 16 • Jodie Kidd 18 • Sophie Morton-Thomas 23 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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The Agenda THE BEST EVENTS IN SUSSEX

EV E NT

Orchid Festival

PHOTO: FULL HOUSE PARTNERS

3 February-3 March K E W WA K E H U R S T Returning for 2024 is Kew Gardens’ much-loved Orchid Festival. Drawing inspiration from the unique flora and fauna of Madagascar, 2024’s orchid extravaganza will reflect the island’s lush rainforests, tropical dry forests and over 3,000 miles of coastline.

One of the most iconic symbols of the island, the Lovers Baobab, will be recreated in a breathtaking display on the waterlily pond. kew.org/wakehurst

A RT

Nengi Omuku U NTI L 3 MA RC H , H ASTI NGS CON TEMPORARY

Hastings Contemporary is staging the first major UK solo exhibition of new and recent works by Lagos-based artist Nengi Omuku, exploring her profound relationship with the natural world. The Dance of People and the Natural World will not only introduce Nengi’s work to a wider UK audience, but also seeks to broaden the exposure and awareness of the vibrant contemporary Nigerian art scene. Displaying more than ten pieces, the show spans five of Hastings Contemporary’s eight galleries. hastingscontemporary.org

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EV E N T

Caroline Quentin 26 February T H E H AW T H C R AW L E Y Join beloved British comedy icon Caroline Quentin for an evening on stage devoted to horticultural hilarity, love, and the therapeutic power of tending the soil beneath our feet. The show is inspired by her delightful upcoming new book ‘Drawn To The Garden’ – over the years, she has come to realise that gardening, just like life, is a series of baffling failures, but also unplanned successes and happy accidents. parkwoodtheatres.co.uk/the-hawth

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CULTURE • DIARY

MU S I C

Michael starring Ben 10 February T H E H AW T H C R AW L E Y Michael starring Ben is the latest smash hit theatre production from renowned producer James Baker and features the UK’s ultimate Michael Jackson tribute star, Ben Bowman, who has honed his routine so impeccably that audiences believe they are watching Michael Jackson himself. With an incredible live band, stunning costumes, and iconic dance routines, Michael starring Ben creates the most authentic, lively and powerful re-creation of the iconic superstar. parkwoodtheatres.co.uk/the-hawth

E X H I B IT I O N

MAY THE TOYS BE WITH YOU Until 20 April T H E N OV I U M M U S E U M From a galaxy far, far away comes an absolute must-see for fans of Star Wars and the silver screen. One of the UK's finest collections of vintage Star Wars toys and original cinema posters is now on display in The Novium Museum. May The Toys Be With You is both a celebration of the now highly collectable vintage toy line and of the iconic design work and art of the original Star Wars movies. thenovium.org.uk

S c re e n I C O N

Brighton Festival's Guest Director for 2024 will be the iconic Frank Cottrell-Boyce

GOODBYE CHRISTOPHER ROBIN

B

righton Festival was established in 1967 and is the largest annual curated multi-arts festival in England. This year’s festival will take place from 4-26 May and is a celebration of music, theatre, dance, art, film, literature, debate, outdoor and community events in venues and locations across Brighton, Hove and Sussex, with Frank Cottrell-Boyce announced as the Guest Director.

Cottrell-Boyce’s debut children's novel, Millions, won the CILIP Carnegie Medal, which annually recognises a new and outstanding English-language book for children or young adults.

This Month’s Must See

24 HOUR PARTY PEOPLE

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7 FEBRUARY, KIN O TEATR

xperience the passionate and tragic story of Kenneth MacMillan’s Manon. Returning to the Royal Opera House Main Stage, this live cinema event will see the dramatic tale of love and loss broadcast to 976 cinemas in 21 countries across the world. Follow the story of the capricious Manon and experience the best of ballet up close through the stirring music by Jules Massenet and evocative designs by Nicholas Georgiadis that conjure up contrasting worlds both opulent and impoverished. kino-teatr.co.uk

He is also the author of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Flies Again, Cosmic, Framed, The Astounding Broccoli Boy and his latest novel published by Pan Macmillan, The Wonder Brothers.

Cottrell-Boyce is a judge for the BBC’s 500 Words competition and, along with Danny Boyle, he devised the Opening Ceremony for the London 2012 Olympics. He has written many hit films, including adapting Millions for a critically acclaimed screen version, plus 24 Hour Party People, The Railway Man and Goodbye Christopher Robin. The legendary film critic Roger Ebert referred to Cottrell-Boyce as ‘the most original and versatile screenwriter in the land’. brightonfestival.org

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“Being a model in the 90s and early 2000s was extraordinary”

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CULTURE • INTERVIEW

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With an eclectic career behind her, Jodie Kidd continues to confound expectations. Absolutely Sussex heads to her pub in Kirdford to see what 2024 holds in store

G

iven we are similar ages, Jodie Kidd has been someone who I have followed throughout her career. When she exploded onto the scene as a model, it was at the same time as I was discovering how to talk to the opposite sex, so her work was certainly of interest. Then came the many TV appearances, which as a fledgling journalist was always good for copy, followed by a real passion for fast cars just as I was getting into Top Gear.

Now I am in my 40s, I love nothing better than a local country pub – but it still surprises me when visiting the Half Moon in Kirdford and seeing Jodie behind the bar.

“I was born and bred in the area so I have been going to the pub, and I have known about it, since I was a little girl,” she says looking around the charming bar area.

By MARK KEBBLE

Long before the Half Moon started shining bright for Jodie, she grew up with a talent for showjumping and as a child attended St Michael’s School in Petworth. “My childhood was very happy,” she says, looking back. “Lots of love, the great outdoors and horses. What’s not to like?

Sussex is so beautiful, we have wonderful coastlines. I love having accessibility to both Brighton and London from where I live.”

Jodie was 15 when she was discovered and her modelling career began. “Being a model in the 90s and early 2000s was extraordinary,” she says. “It was a very exciting time to be in fashion and we were really rocking the world, from the best designers, to the best make-up artists and models. It was a fantastic time to be in and around the industry. I am feeling incredibly grateful for that experience.”

Fast forward to 2024, how important is modelling to her now? “ Not very important,” she shrugs. “I am immensely

grateful for being part of the industry, I learnt so much and I had a wonderful time. It had its ups and downs, but I have moved on to other things.”

One of those other things is where we find ourselves today. It was eight years ago when Jodie took over the Half Moon, but why? “I wanted to save it for the community, but I didn’t want to run it at first, as I had no idea about running a pub,” she says. “I wanted to understand the industry and the business so that when I took it over I wasn’t just going to be another 'celebrity owner'. I wanted to know what every role entailed, from pot wash to making cocktails, closing up, etc. I took a couple of years off and dedicated those early years to learning and understanding an industry that I knew nothing about.”

That work is clear when visiting the Half Moon. It’s a warm pub, very welcoming, with plenty to offer all manner of punters.

You will find a great selection of craft beers A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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CULTURE • INTERVIEW

SHE LOVES BEING CLOSE TO THE COAST

SHE IS CREATIVE DIRECTOR AT SKIN & TONIC

including some cracking IPAs, such as the Sussex old faithful Harveys Best Bitter on cask, and you can enjoy these beers with a tasty bar snack, such as the KFC (Kirdford, Fried, Chicken). In July 2017 they renovated their substantial outdoor space, so you can now sit out on the flagstone terrace, or across from the village’s church watching the world go by. Like the seasons, their menus are continually changing as the kitchen team use the treasures that nature has to offer. Using their knowledge and passion, they will deliver flavours that will surprise and delight.

Of course, all this has happened during a tumultuous time for the hospitality industry. “It has been very tough since I got the pub eight years ago,” Jodie nods.

“We went straight into Brexit and found it quite difficult to get staff and team members. Next up was the pandemic, which was extremely hard for the whole hospitality industry, but we managed to survive that – and now we’re in the cost of living crisis! It seems to be pretty ongoing for the hospitality industry, but we are very proud that we’ve kept our doors open. It was extremely hard, but we’ve done it with a fantastic team, supportive locals and people that get in their cars and drive many miles to experience the Half Moon. They have all been amazing.

I think we’re still here because we’ve worked very hard to keep things going.

“Rural pubs are having a tough time at the moment, and following the pandemic, we are losing five pubs a day in the UK, which is totally unsustainable if we’re to see the pub industry survive in our lifetime,” she adds. “This is why I am quite a big campaigner for lowering our beer tax, lowering business rate tax, and just making it a little bit more sustainable.

It’s impossible to sustain the amount of tax we’re having to pay at the moment.

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“A pub is so much more than somewhere to go and drink” These poor little villages are losing their heart, a pub is so much more than somewhere to go and drink in a village, it’s often a real focal point for people to gather and be social, to host events, to fundraise, etc, so it is vitally important that we support the industry.”

Alongside running the Half Moon – not forgetting she is mum to four children – Jodie is also co-owner of beauty brand, Skin & Tonic. “I first heard about Skin & Tonic when it first launched in 2015,” Jodie says. “I believed in the brand and its natural, organic philosophy. I jumped at the chance to be a part of the brand when the opportunity arose.”

Their range of beautiful, all-organic products really are as good for you as they look. They use only the finest, purest ingredients responsibly sourced for a healthy, radiant skin – there are absolutely no nasty additives or toxins and there never will be. They never test on animals and all their packaging is recycled and recyclable.

As Creative Director, Jodie will be involved in the evolution of the company, all the while maintaining the ethical approach they have become known for. As well as this, there is also Jodie’s passion for cars. “I am still enjoying my love for cars and running my YouTube channel, Kidd in a Sweet Shop. I have just been filming an episode out in the UAE, which was a wonderful experience. I love my channel, and I am very passionate about my other pursuits. I always try to find a healthy balance to enjoy it all.”

Looking back over Jodie’s career, there are plenty of tangents that make her story so interesting and you get the impression, going forward, things will be just as exciting. “Between being a mum, running the pub and a household, the relaunch of Skin & Tonic and multiple other things I am working on, a typical day is very, very busy. I am juggling like mad – but I’ve never felt more alive.” halfmoonkirdford.co.uk skinandtonic.uk JODIE OUTSIDE THE HALF MOON

THE HALF MOON'S GARDEN

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CULTURE • PROFILE

Q Tell us about Bird Spotting

in a Small Town…

A Well, it’s a story about buried secrets

GET TO KNOW…

and strange occurrences and one woman’s obsession with finding a particular rare bird in the isolated coastal town she inhabits. As she goes about her daily life, maintaining the caravan park she owns and searching for the bird, her own family is slowly falling apart. Small-town tension simmers when a new teacher starts at the local school and a Romany community settle nearby. When the schoolteacher and Fran’s brother-in-law both go missing on the same night, accusations start to fly. Yet all Fran seems to care about are the birds.

Q How excited are you ahead

SOPHIE MORTON -THOMAS

C H I C H E ST E R AU T H O R , W H O S E N E W B O O K B I R D S P OT T I N G I N A S M A L L TOW N I S P U B L I S H E D I N F E B R UA RY

of its launch in February?

A I'm very excited! This will be my first book

published that’s available in shops and I’m looking forward to attending the events that have been organised and meeting readers.

Q What inspired the idea behind the novel?

A I knew that I had always wanted to

create a story on a remote coastal setting, particularly with birds involved. As a child I was a keen bird spotter! After several holidays to the North Norfolk coast, I knew I had discovered the perfect setting.

Q How would you describe

your writing style?

A I would say my writing is quite

atmospheric, and I place a lot of focus on building up the setting. My characters don’t tend to speak a huge amount, but I think that ties in well with the notion of things that are purposely left unsaid.

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CULTURE • PROFILE

SPOT A HERON AT FISHBOURNE

“I love Bosham, it's stunning and so peaceful” BRIGHTON LAINES

Q How do you tend to write?

A Most days and weeks I don’t write at all,

due to my teaching job and my young child. I really only get to write in the school holidays, but then I really go for it and can produce a whole first draft of a book in four weeks.

Q Were you always planning

on being a novelist?

A It was always my dream to be a

novelist, even as a young child. However, a lack of confidence and having my eldest children at a young age pretty much hindered any progress. I didn’t have the time or ambition until my late 30s.

Q We have featured some top names in

crime writing in Absolutely Sussex – such as William Shaw and Elly Griffiths – so what is it about the county that inspires writing about the darker side of life?

A I think perhaps that it’s the coastal element, and the wealth of green, and not forgetting the South Downs that loom over the area – lots of opportunity for a dark secret or a murder…

BOSHAM

Q What’s your favourite thing about it?

A I love Priory Park and the original Roman

walls surrounding it, and the history of the city. Some of the buildings are so beautiful.

And it’s just a short drive to the water.

Q Where in Sussex do you love visiting?

A I love Bosham, a small harbour town

just outside Chichester. It’s stunning but so peaceful, and I love to look at the little sailboats, especially when the sun is going down. My next favourite place is Fishbourne, also just outside Chichester, but where the writer Kate Mosse is from – there’s a fantastic, isolated walk along by the marshes and it’s a recommended RSPB area where you can spot herons and egrets. This marshy area also inspired Bird Spotting In A Small

Town. My third favourite place would be the city of Brighton and wandering around the shops and restaurants down the Laines.

Q What are your hopes for 2024?

A Obviously I’m looking forward to my book

being released and getting to meet new readers and hearing their feedback. I’d love to take part in a summer literary festival somewhere in the UK, so fingers crossed.

Sophie Morton-Thomas is the author of Bird Spotting in a Small Town, published

by VERVE Books. She will be speaking about the novel at Waterstones in Chichester on 29 February, see waterstones.com/ events, and Chapter 34 in Shoreham-bySea on 7 March, see chapter34.co.uk

PRIORY PARK CHICHESTER

Q How long have you lived in Chichester?

A Only two years now, but I love it here,

and craved being closer to the coast. I had wanted to move here for a long time.

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FULL BODY HOLISTIC

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CULTURE • PARTNERSHIP

“We hope audiences will find something both familiar and provocative”

HAUNTING P E R F O R M A N C E Something wicked this way comes: ETT’s new production of Macbeth makes its way to Worthing

A

struggling and divided nation, tearing itself apart. So, when the Macbeths see their chance at the crown, why shouldn’t they take it? But things don’t go according to plan. Dreams quickly turn to nightmares, humanity erodes, nature stirs. As society strives to make sense of the darkness that sits inside it, how long will it take for people to fight back against the endless cycle of violence and corruption?

ETT’s visceral and contemporary new production of Macbeth speaks to a world we find ourselves living in now, and asks why has this play haunted our fears and nightmares for centuries – and what lesson is this cautionary tale still urgently trying to communicate to us?

seeped into our national consciousness…

We hope that audiences the length and breadth of the country will find something both familiar and provocative in the story and society that unfolds on stage.”

Given its mysterious legacy and lasting popularity, Macbeth deserves its position among Shakespeare’s most beloved plays.

If you haven’t experienced it for yourself, or want to revisit this masterpiece, why not “screw your courage to the sticking place” and book to see ETT’s Macbeth.

ETT’s Macbeth, By William Shakespeare Connaught Theatre, Worthing Tuesday 5-Friday 8 March 2024 Age guidance: 12+ Tickets: from £16 wtm.uk/events/macbeth

Regarded as one of Shakespeare’s best plays, Macbeth deals with the toxic, psychological effects of greed through the rise and fall of a respected, but power hungry war hero. The play presents the pursuit of power as cut-throat and it examines how a lethal mix of dishonesty and ambition can unravel relationships, and corrupt even the most revered of people.

In their first international tour since the pandemic, ETT (English Touring Theatre) presents this bold new production of Shakespeare’s Macbeth. A co-production with Northern Stage, Shakespeare North Playhouse and Théâtres de la Ville de Luxembourg, it will play at Worthing’s Connaught Theatre in March 2024, following a tour around the UK and abroad.

Richard Twyman, Artistic Director and CEO, and Sophie Scull, Executive Producer of ETT, said: “Macbeth is a story that has A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Justifiably extravagant.

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FOOD & DRINK

TOP DRAW ETCH. BY STEVEN EDWARDS

Until Thursday 29 February, etch. by Steven Edwards will be returning to a more simple menu offering as it launches its Winter Series – a five course menu priced at just £50 and with options to upgrade by adding courses. It follows the success of the Hove restaurant’s ‘Introduction to etch.’ a four course menu priced at £50 that chef owner Steven Edwards introduced to attract new diners to the restaurant. etchfood.co.uk

The Permit Room 30 • Top 5 35 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Permit to

PARTY Absolutely Sussex heads to Brighton’s hottest new foodie destination, from the people behind Dishoom

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FOOD & DRINK • INTERVIEW

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his is a story that begins in 1949. It was during that year that the Bombay Prohibition act was passed by politicians flush with post-independence Gandhian fervour, and banned the sale of all liquor. And yet, the law couldn’t keep enterprising citizens away from their spirits. Bombayites found ways to continue drinking; resourceful Goan Catholic Aunties even started serving liquor secretly in their front rooms. Eventually, though, through the 1960s and 1970s the law was relaxed and you now could drink, albeit only if you held a Permit. The Permit Room of Bombay was thus born.

Shamil Thakrar, co-founder of foodie behemoth Dishoom, picks up the story:

“We’ve been going to Bombay for decades now, and have had many a merry time in permit rooms whilst on our travels – hours have been spent with friends huddled over chakli and chilli chips (food is always at the centre of the table in permit rooms!), all washed down with ice cold beers or Old Monk and Thums Up. It was clearly about time we put those late nights to good use.”

The result was Permit Room, which opened in Brighton at the tail end of 2023.

With Shamil busy during the Christmas rush, Absolutely Sussex took it upon ourselves to head down to East Street to see why Permit Room has been creating such a buzz. More than half of the dishes on the Permit Room’s all day menu are vegetarian or vegan across Bar Snacks, Chaats, Patties & Salads, Ruby Murray & Permit Specials, as well as Sweet Things, and no red meat features at all.

“Food is always at the centre of the table in permit rooms” We kicked things off with Chakli and Peanut Masala. No Bombay permit room menu is complete without these snacks: crunchy Chakli with fried spiced flours of rice and gram, and the fresh and zingy Peanut Masala – roasted peanuts tossed with tomato, onion, coriander, chilli, and lime.

Next up was Aunty’s Anda (Egg) Curry.

This dish is a tribute to the Aunty Bars: a very traditional curry of boiled eggs hidden in a rich dark tomato sauce. In Bombay, if you see the boiled-egg vendor, there may be an Aunty Bar nearby.

Alongside this, we tucked into Crispy Spinach Chaat. This is a crispy-fried babyleaf spinach with yoghurt, chutneys, spices, seeds, sev and fresh pomegranate.

A light and tangy delicacy for the perfect drinking accompaniment.

Next was a half Chicken Tandoori, something enjoyed across all of Bombay and the majority of permit rooms. This spatchcock chicken is marinated before being chargrilled; moreish and packing a punch, it is served with fresh kachumber salad and a tangy green chutney.

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FOOD & DRINK • INTERVIEW

“Permit Room’s drinks offering takes cues from the colourful history of drinking in Bombay”

We were too full by this point, but in the Sweet Things part of the menu, guests will find playful twists on nostalgic classics including (Orange Blossom) Jelly and (Strawberry) Ice Cream, Coconut Caramel Custard, as well as a selection of ice cream sandwiches inspired by K. Rustom & Company in Bombay – certified seaside.

Very much as important as the food is the completely new cocktail and drinks list. Permit Room’s drinks offering takes cues from the colourful history of drinking in Bombay across each of the menu’s categories: Highballs, On the Rocks, Twisted Classics, Short & Boozy, Frozen Lipsters, Morning Glories, and the non-alcoholic Teetotal.

We decided to try a few (why not?), starting with Aunty’s Anjeer Manhattan.

A nod to those clandestine ‘Aunty Bars’, which existed before permits were available for Permit Rooms. The term ‘aunty’ was coined as the endearing term for a loved one in India and the bars were often hosted in people’s homes.

The Feni Martini (£12.50) uses the heritage spirit of India, Feni – made from fermented cashew apples, this spirit was bootlegged into towns during the era of the Permit Rooms and continues to be used today. Feni gives a fruity and earthy twist to the classic Martini.

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The Mango Lassi Punch is inspired by the popular Indian drink of the same name, this balanced and clarified cocktail is made using Old Monk Rum (a Bombay favourite), yoghurt and spicy mango syrup, and the Thums Up Sazerac is a unique twist on the classic New Orleans cocktail that pays tribute to the much-loved Indian soft drink, Thums Up. Thums Up is part of the DNA of Bombay, evoking nostalgia for delighted Desis and non-Desi friends alike.

What’s clear during our time at Permit Room is the local surroundings are key, with Brighton collaborations integral to this neighbourhood hangout. On the drinks list, an exclusive Permit Room ‘Pineapple and Black Pepper Crumble’ sour beer is in partnership with local brewery, UnBarred Brewery; an enjoyably tart serve, with

flavours of pineapple, cinnamon and notes of vanilla. The menu also features a beer in collaboration with Hand Co Brewery, a dry but fruity peach lager. Other local suppliers will include: Tigermoth Coffee Roasters, Goldstone Rum, Madam Jennifer Distillery, Boho Gelato and many more to come.

What’s more, Permit Room opened with a live music residency in partnership with Going South – a platform for thriving British South Asian talent, bringing the best of British brown excellence in music together, spearheaded by DJ and presenter Bobby Friction. With sets occurring weekly on Thursday evenings, DJs will range from the very best rising talent to more established names, from across Brighton and beyond.

The bar-café’s relaxed, retro interiors will be complemented by artwork by Bombayites, Brightonians and young Indian artists, and an eclectic playlist fusing Bombay to New York via funk, punk, hip-hop, disco and soul.

Today, it’s not that easy to walk into a Dishoom and get a table instantly, with queues known to often form out the door such is the demand for the food. Permit Room is a different beast altogether, but the early signs suggest this, too, will go down in history. permitroom.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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FOOD & DRINK • COFFEE

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The Shoot 38 • Jewellery 43 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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FASHION • JEWELLERY

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14k Yellow Gold and Diamonds Leo Zodiac Reveal Cigar Band, £1,400 shahlakarimi.com

Art Deco Zodiac Pendant Necklace, £156 erinfaderjewelry.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

ECO LUXE SILOU Silou's elevated active essentials are made from sustainable fabrics including ECONYL®, TENCEL™ and BCI Cotton. The UK brand's pieces are produced in small production runs and they work with sustainable mills in Europe.

Sculpting and comfortable to wear, the designs are so beautiful, you won't want to save them for just the yoga mat or treadmill. siloulondon.com

Beauty News 49 • Health Trends 50 • Fitness Notes 53 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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EXPERTS EXPERTS IN IN THE THE NATURAL NATURAL LOOK LOOK TreatTreat a loved a loved one this oneValentine’s this Valentine’s to thetogift theofgift eternal of eternal beautybeauty

Doctor Nyla Doctor is aNyla skin is specialist, a skin specialist, trusted by trusted TV personalities,

by TV personalities, well-known well-known celebritycelebrity figures and figures some and ofsome Britain’s of Britain’s most familiar most faces familiar in the faces media in theindustry. media industry.

FounderFounder and Medical and Medical DirectorDirector of Doctor ofNyla Doctor Medispa Nyla Medispa is a highly is a highly respected respected and much and sought muchafter sought cosmetic after cosmetic Dermatology Dermatology GP and is GPconsidered and is considered one of the one top of cosmetic the top cosmetic doctors doctors in the country. in the country.

Having practised Having practised medicine medicine for over for 20 over years20 and years having andpersonally having personally delivered delivered over 200,000 over 200,000 treatments treatments with trulywith exceptional truly exceptional results, she results, has gained she hasthe gained admiration the admiration of the industry. of the industry.

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This innovative, This innovative, multi-technique multi-technique facial is facial is available available solely atsolely Dr. Nyla’s at Dr.clinics Nyla’sprovide clinics provide non-invasive non-invasive skin firming skin and firming elevation and elevation that that addresses addresses all signsall ofsigns aging, offrom aging, uneven, from uneven, lifeless skin lifeless to pronounced skin to pronounced lines and lines and sagging.sagging.

TailoringTailoring a regimen a regimen that harnesses that harnesses an arrayan of array advanced of advanced technologies technologies tailoredtailored to your individual to your individual skin needs. skin needs.

Follow Follow us on us on @doctornyla @doctornyla 0162 0162 552 3307 552 3307 or 0800 or 0800 009 6661 009 6661 For a FREE For aconsultation FREE consultation pleaseplease contact contact Medispa Medispa or visitor visit www.doctornyla.com www.doctornyla.com

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AESTHETICS AESTHETICS IN MENOPAUSE IN MENOPAUSE

Menopause Menopause is a signifi is acant signifi stage cantinstage a woman’s in a woman’s life that life canthat bring canabout bringnumerous about numerous physicalphysical and and emotional emotional changes, changes, which Dr which Nyla Dr entirely Nyla entirely understands understands being abeing woman a woman headingheading towardstowards her 50s.her 50s.

Oestrogen Oestrogen and progesterone and progesterone levels decrease, levels decrease, leadingleading to a reduction to a reduction in collagen in collagen production production and an increase and an increase in in fine lines fine and lines wrinkles, and wrinkles, plus a decrease plus a decrease in the skin’s in theability skin’s ability to retaintomoisture retain moisture and protect and protect itself. The itself.

Medispa The Medispa group group offers non-surgical offers non-surgical facial aesthetic facial aesthetic treatments, treatments, which which will address will address skin concerns, skin concerns, boost collagen boost collagen production production and offering and offering tailoredtailored solutions. solutions.

Body fatBody and muscle fat and muscle composition composition can alsocan change also change dramatically dramatically during during menopause, menopause, causingcausing weight gain. weight Drgain.

Nyla Dr is an Nyla expert is an expert in bodyin contouring body contouring and offers anda offers varietya of variety treatments of treatments to lowertoyour lower riskyour of gaining risk of gaining excess weight, excess weight, as well as as well as to streamline to streamline your figure yourwith figure no with downtime no downtime or surgery. or surgery.

PatientsPatients can speak cantospeak the team to the at team Dr Nyla at Dr Medispa Nyla Medispa to find to find out howout to maintain how to maintain a healthy a healthy lifestyle,lifestyle, as well as as nonwell as nonsurgicalsurgical methods methods of removing of removing fat suchfat as such Coolsculpting as Coolsculpting EmeraldEmerald laser and laser Emsculpt and Emsculpt

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The only The Diamond only Diamond “Clinic of“Clinic the year of the year Winner ofWinner the of the The largest The largest The largest The largest PremierePremiere Coolsculpting Coolsculpting clinic clinic 2019/20”2019/20” at the at the prestigious prestigious “BTL “BTL Skin Tightening Skin Tightening Ultracel Clinic Ultracel Clinic London outsideand London the second and the second safety in safety Beautyin Beauty Face of the Face year” of the year”clinic in the clinic in the outside of outside outside of largest Coolsculpting clinic in clinic in Awards. Awards. award. award. United Kingdom.

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BEAUTY NOTES

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BLINK BROW BAR

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t’s a bitterly cold Friday morning when I visit the new Blink Brow Bar salon on Avery Row in London. I’m freezing because I’ve worn the wrong coat for the plummeting temperatures, but I soon warm up once inside the cosy and inviting space. With a chic green and gold interior, it’s only been open for a few months, but it’s already a popular spot with beauty insiders.

Blink Brow Bar is well-known for being the authority on all things brows, but I’m actually booked in to see the salon’s expert lash technician for a Dream Lash Lift/Curl and Tint.

Sitting me back on one of the comfy reclinable chairs, she asks if I’d prefer a lift or a curl. As my natural lashes are quite short and stubby, she recommends a lift to lengthen and give me a fluttery lash line.

First she perms my lashes straight, which requires me to keep my eyes closed. There’s a little bit of waiting, but it’s completely painless and the time goes quickly whilst we chat.

Once my lashes are permed, I get to check the progress in the mirror.

My lashes already look amazing, but there’s still the tint to go. The lash technician recommends a blue-black shade, to give me a glossy finish. She explains that pure black can appear quite flat. There’s a little bit less waiting this time, followed by an eye-bath, to cleanse.

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glowforitshop.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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R O O M TO

IMPROVE Turn 2024 into the year that you look and feel your best

By PENDLE HARTE

R E S I S TA N C E OVERLOAD It's impossible to overstate the benefits of resistance training, encompassing weightlifting, resistance bands and bodyweight exercises on overall health and fitness. It enhances muscular strength, promotes better posture and reduces the risk of injuries. Regular resistance training contributes to increased lean muscle mass, boosting metabolism and aiding weight management. It improves bone density, crucial for preventing osteoporosis. And it's not just physical gains: resistance training elevates mood by releasing endorphins, reducing stress and anxiety. Additionally, it enhances cognitive function and sleep quality. As a versatile practice adaptable to various fitness levels, it empowers individuals of all ages to achieve personalized fitness goals, fostering a holistic approach to well-being.

The people behind Sweaty Betty know all of this, of course. And that's why their kit supports all your fitness efforts: technical fabrics move with you, absorb sweat and support you in comfort throughout even the most punishing workouts. sweatybetty.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • INSPIRATION

REVIEW Allesandro calvio's balayage

SHINE O N ALESSANDRO CALVIO

B O U T I Q U E S T Y LE KXU

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The pay-as-you-go approach allows you to enhance your strength and conditioning with personal training, to PBB barre classes and high-energy fun with U-Cycle classes. kxu.co.uk

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lessandro Calvio's list of clients includes Hofit Golan, Vanessa Kirby, Bianca and Jade Jagger, Carmen Chaplin, Kelly Hoppen, Pippa Middleton and several international royals. He’s famed for his Vertical Cut technique and a balayage method that he calls MoveLights. This is why I have come to Electric Space in Rathbone Place, and immediately Alessandro is giving his full attention to my hair. My grown-out highlights are in need of some help and he considers very carefully the best approach to create a natural, bright look. Balayage is an art form and he paints individual strands of my hair, wrapping it in small cellophane wraps (never foil) and making sure that it's exacltly right. Never before have my locks been subjected to such precise attention and I emerge with fresh, shiny hair with lots of movement and radiance.

Thank you Alessandro.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FITNESS

FITNESS

TOP

PICKS

NOTES

THREE STRETCHING ESSENTIALS

By CARLY GLENDINNING

ST YLISH SUPPORT Made from recycled nylon, this sports bra from Gymshark's 'Elevate' collection gives the perfect level of support for mobility training. It's also made to handle high sweat levels so you can move with confidence, £40. gymshark.com

FLEX IT

HIGH CUSHIONING The Pliability Mat creates a comfortable and stable surface for your mobility training. With maximum shock absorption, it enables you to hold poses longer and minimises impact and stress on joints, £112. pliability.com

LIGHT AS AIR Super lightweight, these leggings from the new collection at Fabletics are chafe resistant, moisture wicking, and even have UPF protection. The super soft fabric allows you to move, bend, and stretch easily, £84. fabletics.co.uk

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Carly Glendinning tries Pliability, a fitness app focused on mobility training

’ll confess, I’ve never been that flexible. My hamstrings are so tight that even touching my toes is a challenge. So I was intrigued when I was invited to try Pliability, a fitness app focused on mobility training. Formerly known as ROMWOD, Pliability was originally for CrossFit athletes. Since rebranding, they have expanded to provide daily stretching routines aimed at golfers, runners, swimmers, and gym-goers (like myself). Many people focus on strength and stamina in their training, underestimating the importance of mobility, coordination, and balance.

Endorsed by professional athletes (including golfer

Lee Westwood), Pliability’s routines are a fusion of mobility, yoga, prehab, rehab, recovery, mindfulness, and strength. The first time I log in to the app, I am pleased to see that the daily routines are quite short. Most of the videos are 23-24 minutes, and I can easily fit a session in after I get back from the gym. The app suggests a new video for me to do each day, although there are hundreds to browse. The videos show two ‘models’, who take you through several poses in sequence. The one on the left shows less flexibility and the one on the right shows more.

I am instructed to hold each pose for around 2-3 minutes by the voiceover. You need

very little equipment to do Pliability. All you really need is a mat, although blocks and resistance bands can come in handy if you are less flexible and need to modify the poses. After a few days I find myself really getting into it. It’s satisfying to mark the videos as ‘complete’ and see my progress charted in the app. Holding each pose and really focusing on it also becomes quite relaxing. In a few short weeks I’ve noticed a difference in my flexibility, and who knows, maybe I’ll even be able to touch my toes before too long. £16.95 per month or £169.95 annually pliability.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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C R E AT I N G B E A U T I F U L B AT H R O O M S S I N C E 1 9 8 8 | r i p p l e s b a t h r o o m s . c o m R I PPL E S CHICHESTER, N E W B U R Y, 51A34LO N D O N R OA D,CHICHESTER, N E W B U R Y, R PO19 G14 1J1DP N | |016 3 5 5 69 900 RIPPLES SOUTHGATE, 01243 345375 S H O W R O O M S N AT I O N W I D E

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INTERIORS

P ERSO N A L TO U C H RIPPLES

At Ripples, they don’t do one size fits all, but they do take dreams and ideas and turn them into bespoke designs for your new bathroom.

From the moment you step into their showroom to the moment you step into your new bathroom, they aim to make the whole process as smooth as it can be.

34 Southgate, Chichester, PO19 1DP 01243 345375 ripplesbathrooms.com

Real Home 56 • Lighting 61 • Trends 63 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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ITEM Olga Bury is the co-founder of Chaika Events and she lives in Haywards Heath in a stunning 1960s inspired property. She invites Absolutely round

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INTERIORS • REAL HOME

“We have some iconic pieces like Cigar chairs by Hans Wegner” Q Was it love at first sight when you

first saw what is now your home?

A Yes, we moved from Brighton to Haywards Heath because we found our dream house.

My husband and I love mid-century design, previously renovating a flat in a Richard Seiffert building on Brighton’s seafront (the architect behind Tower 42 and the Centrepoint), which was themed in a “Manhattan/Mad Men style”. When we saw the Coalpit, which was remodelled

by London architects Stiff and Trevillion, it was love at first sight. Finally a home for our burgeoning collections of stuff!

Q Did you see a lot of potential

in the property?

A Not necessarily as the house had already been extended and remodelled to feel like a broken plan Californian case study house. That said the kitchen was disconnected from the rest of the house and dated, so we worked with Alistair Flemming to look more in keeping with the house. We also reinstated the serving hatch that once opened up into the dining room (now our

main living room) bringing in natural light, connecting it to the rest of the house, whilst giving a wonderful view of the garden and the distant South Downs whilst cooking.

Q How long ago was this now?

A We moved to the house in October 2019 and

could not believe how lucky we were to spend lockdown in such a wonderful space. Apart from the kitchen, which we remodelled in 2022, the main work has been decorative and in the garden. We removed the forest of ivy and roses that surrounded the house and replaced them with tropical plants in

keeping with the Californian/Palm Springs theme. Long term we plan to build a granny annexe above the garage (as our family grows up) and have regular discussions about the pros and cons of rendering the external brickwork to make it more of white box, as well as the pros and cons of having two swimming pools. But in reality we love it as it is!

Q What was the biggest challenge

when renovating the property?

A The only real challenge was coping

without a kitchen for six weeks whilst adapting to a nine month old baby!

Q What can you tell us about the furniture

you collect and is on show in the house?

A We started collecting pieces of 20th century

furniture 20 years ago, so the house has become an amazing canvas to furnish. We have some iconic pieces like a Scolari light in the dining room, Cigar chairs by Hans Wegner, a few different Eames chairs and two Eileen Grey Bibbendum chairs in the entrance hall. But we also love more esoteric pieces by the likes of Miroslav Navrotil, A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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INTERIORS • REAL HOME

Robin Day, Frank Guille and Ercol. Jo [Olga’s husband] loves records and has extended his hoarding to collecting vintage hi-fis, including a Braun SK4, Brionvega R126 and a Beogram as well as his main stereo, a vintage Naim with a turntable by Michell, that is after the one featured in the movie A Clockwork Orange. We also love finding beautiful objects; for instance we have the sculptures

by Dominique Pouchain and local Sussex artist Guy Stevens. We also commissioned local charity MiO (makingitout.co.uk/ artworks) to create a kinetic garden sculpture inspired by Miro and Alexander Calder.

Q Do you have a favourite piece of furniture?

A One of my favourite objects in the

house is the floor light by the British artist and studio potter Bernard Rooke. I also love the Ultrafragola Mirror/Lamp By Ettore Sottsass in the dressing room.

Q It looks like you have good taste in art

for the walls too. What are some of your most prized pieces?

A I love our collection of Arthur Wilson 3D pictures and also Robert Stewart’s Textile Wall Arts. Jo loves the large abstract painting in the hallway which came with the house, it was allegedly created to represent all of the trades in Belfast and used to hang in a hotel restaurant in the city.

Q Is there plenty of natural light

Q What leisure facilities are there?

A We have two swimming pools – one

indoor and one outdoor, as well as a large garden. All of which require a bit of upkeep, but are a joy to use and they keep us fit.

Q Do you have a favourite room?

A We love the main lounge as it is open

plan and located right in the middle of the house connecting to all the other rooms.

My husband collects records so we have the main stereo system there and often chill on the sofa watching [daughter] Margot dance or play or enjoying a bottle of wine/ beer with the open fire when she’s asleep.

coming into the home?

In short, yes! We have a 15 metre long balcony with loggia with windows from floor to ceiling. We get lots of natural light in both the upstairs bedrooms whilst the indoor pool has glass feature walls, which project the garden onto the ceiling while you swim!

Q Does your home life ever crossover with

Q There is one room that I can only describe

A I work from home around 50% of the time, I

as a vibrant red – what room is that?

A It is a dressing room that is adjoined to the

bedroom. It can be described as a lovely warm place to get dressed on a cold winter morning.

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your luxury events company, Chaika Events? love my open plan home office with the garden view. The house is also used as a location house, which helps pay the bills! I am also planning to host a few events in the house with

my sommelier friend. We are located on the doorstep with many vineyards and I would love to invite a local artist to exhibit during the Open House together with the wine tasting.

Q When did you co-found the

business and what do you offer?

A I co-founded the events company in

2010 and we specialise in organising private and corporate events.

Q What does 2024 hold in store for you?

A House wise, we’re looking forward to

watching our daughter grow, and enjoying lunches and BBQs with friends and family.

From a work perspective, we’re looking to expand the business and are about to launch the company renting and selling event decorations and props.

chaikaevents.com; if interested in hiring the property for shoots or filming, visit lovelocations.co.uk/location/coalpit/

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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AD BRIGHTON BED CENTRE.indd 59

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INTERIORS • TREND

JONATHAN ADLER Rio Two Light Sconce, Brass, £230 jonathanadler.com

J ADAMS & CO Strata 900 Wall Light Antique Brass, £1,275 jadamsandco.com

DAVEY LIGHTING Bathroom Cabin LED Wall Light in Weathered-Brass, £439 originalbtc.com

HOUSEOF. White Flower Sconce Wall Light, £159 houseof.com

DOWSING & REYNOLDS Manston Metal Wall Sconce Antique Black, £84.99 dowsingandreynolds.com

WIRE LESS

TRAINSPOTTERS Opaline Glass Deco Wall Light, £216 trainspotters.co.uk

All the best wall lights

EDITOR’S PICK

By P E N D L E H A R T E

ORIGINAL BTC Oxford Wall Light, £359 originalbtc.com

ORIGINAL BTC Hatton Wall Light, £439 originalbtc.com

NANOLEAF ORIGINAL BTC Alma Wall Light, £489 originalbtc.com

PRODUCTS WALL LIGHTS.indd 61

POOKY Double Twiglet Wall Fitting in Aluminium And Brass, £99 pooky.com

Lines, kit of nine, £134.99 nanoleaf.me

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16/01/2024 11:44

SBI Ltd has been providing all of your shelter and shading requirements, since 1998

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Verandas • Glass Rooms • Awnings • Pergolas Carports • Solar Garage Doors & Shutters • Parasols • Conservatory Sail Blinds Glass Wind Screens for patios, awnings, verandas and parasols !

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Keep a cool head on your conservatory Why not replace your existing polycarbonate or glass conservatory roof with a new tiled and insulated roof and transform your conservatory into the garden room you deserve.

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There’s more to a new roof than you can imagine AD SBI - SOLICON.indd 62

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INTERIORS • TOP 5

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T A B L E T A L K LINENS FOR THE BEST-DRESSED TABLES

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B LO C K PA R T Y LISA CORTI

True to Italian tradition, mezzeri are cotton cloths that can be used both decoratively and practically.

Meticulously handcrafted in India using blockprinting, charming imperfections make each Lisa Corti mezzero unique. lisacorti.com

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F O L K TA L E BELL HUTLEY

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Bell Hutley is an artist and illustrator whose whimsical and romantic designs are inspired by nature and folklore. We love her colourful cotton/linen blend tablecloths in a variety of patternts and shades. bellhutley.com

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RUN IN

R AJ TENT CLUB

This cotton table runner is block printed with pink flowers and cypress trees in a green leafy trellis, from a selection at Raj Tent Club. rajtentclub.com

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FA N TA SY L A N D EMMA J SHIPLEY

The fantastical Lynx linen tablecloth is made ethically in Spain from high quality pure linen and features an engineered print design, with details including antelopes, fantasy palms and curious creatures. emmajshipley.com

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PRINT RUN TORI MURPHY

The Joy of Print x Tori Murphy linen union tablecloths were designed with the sense of coming together at the very core. These beautiful tablecloths are the perfect backdrop to any occasion. torimurphy.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Home

Away

There’s more to a Hurst education than academic excellence. Here, self-expression is positively encouraged.

Children are inspired to explore. Invaluable years in our nurturing, enriching environment in which all children thrive, blossom and grow. Prepared. For life.

Hurstpierpoint College

www.hppc.co.uk

C O - E D U C AT I O N A L D AY A N D B O A R D I N G S C H O O L F O R P U P I L S A G E D 4 - 1 8

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SPECI A L

FLEXIBLE FRIENDS WINDLESHAM HOUSE SCHOOL

We visit the acclaimed Sussex prep school to learn more about their flexible classrooms, which opens the door to children collaborating and creating inspiring work. windlesham.com

Inside this section H O L I S T I C L E A R N I N G AT B R I G H T O N C O L L E G E 6 9 F LY I N G H I G H A T U N I V E R S I T Y O F B R I G H T O N 7 1 L E G O P L AY A N D S E N 74

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GROW Looking at why Sussex school Windlesham House has opened future-inspired ‘flexible classrooms’ for pupils

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ndependent West Sussex prep school, Windlesham House, has opened a number of new flexible classrooms as part of its commitment to invest in innovative learning spaces that are equipped to prepare children for the changing world. In line with its fouryear digital strategy, the school has opened the flexible classrooms to foster a collaborative learning environment that inspires reflection, resilience and ownership, while promoting autonomy.

The new flexible classrooms are divided into a range of coloured zones aimed at modelling critical thinking, questioning and risk taking. The Gather Zone (in orange) is where the modelling and teaching happens in short 15-minute blocks to avoid cognitive overload. The Collaboration Zone (in green) is a learning space where pupils can discuss ideas, talk to each other, use whiteboards to model thoughts, or iPads to complete work such as short films. There is also a Reflection Zone (in blue), which is a quiet, independent area of learning where pupils can work alone and listen to music on their headphones.

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Ben Evans, Headmaster at Windlesham House, says: “Environment and setting plays an essential role in learning. Children can spend many hours every day in a classroom, so it is important that they feel safe, happy, calm and able to learn effectively. We are keen on inspiring a community of confident, productive young learners. Our flexible classrooms give them a variety of innovative spaces where they can work collaboratively or independently.”

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“Environment and setting plays an essential role in learning” The school’s flexible classrooms include a variety of soft furnishings from comfy sofas and floor cushions, as well as highand low-level desks with writable surfaces to inspire freedom of movement. These classrooms will play an essential role in the pupils’ learning day to day and are designed to nurture a community that learns, studies and explores the changing world, while personalising individual learning habits.

“It is our belief that removing the physical barrier of a ‘teacher behind a desk’ will encourage greater and more active collaboration in lessons as well as improved concentration,” adds Ben. “Our flexible classrooms also give children the time to reflect on their choices, putting

them in control of their learning journey.

School is not just about passing tests, it is about critical thinking, questioning and risk taking in a safe and fun environment.”

Teachers are now able to plan lessons with the various spaces in mind giving the pupils differentiated tasks and learning outcomes. The feedback from pupils has also been very positive. As one Year 5 pupil said: “I love the new flexible classrooms and the furniture. When I first walked in, I noticed a speech bubble with words and their meanings. I think it will help me to learn better because the room is relaxing and calming for studying.” windlesham.com

BEN EVANS

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EDUCATION • OPINION

Individual APPROACH

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Brighton College: a love of learning in a home from home environment

t Brighton College we know that young people who are happy are young people who thrive. And we believe the best way of achieving a happy and content community is to ensure that everyone feels valued for who they are. We want our pupils to be first-class versions of themselves, not second-class versions of someone else, and we place great emphasis on kindness, acceptance and mutual respect.

The College regularly achieves the best A-level and GCSE results of any co-educational school in the country, allowing us to help pupils reach the global university of their choice. We support pupils through every step of their university application process, with a dedicated Sixth Form team who are experts in delivering successful outcomes, and with a number of bespoke programmes that prepare for university entrance tests and interviews.

Around 20% of our pupils are offered places at Oxford or Cambridge every year, with over 650 offers received annually from Russell Group universities. American and Canadian universities increasingly represent a highly desirable option for well-rounded and motivated pupils. Brighton College’s wideranging educational offering makes pupils well-suited and very attractive to the holistic US admissions process, and many Brighton College pupils take up places at a range of top North American universities each year.

We offer a wealth of activities – 150 per week – with options as varied as dissection club, the TED Talk appreciation society, beach volleyball, programming,

“We want our pupils to be firstclass versions of themselves”

PUPILS AT BRIGHTON COLLEGE

stand-up comedy, Rubik’s Cube club and a huge number of sporting clubs – there is something for everyone. We understand that this leads to pupils being happier both inside and outside the classroom, allowing them to achieve their academic potential.

Dance is hugely popular, and with a brand-new dance school and world-class theatre, the arts will continue to thrive at the College. Our award-winning Chamber Choir were thrilled to win the UK National Choral Competition this year, and will be performing at the Royal Albert Hall in London alongside the prestigious Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. We are one of the leading sporting schools in England, where our top sporting talent regularly achieve regional and national honours. Our ethos is very much about sport for everyone, and we cater for all pupils.

We are proud to offer a genuine home away from home for our pupils, allowing an excellent education alongside a truly fantastic life at school. With six modern Boarding Houses and state-of-the art facilities, boarders form warm relationships with those in their House families, and events are held that join the Houses regularly, ensuring a wide group of friends are made across school.

Every boarding pupil takes full advantage of the excellent facilities within the College and there is a full and exciting boarders’ activities programme on offer each evening and every weekend, so boarders enjoy life to the full at school. These activities ensure every child’s experience is educational, social, busy and, importantly, fun.

The happiness and welfare of each of our boarders is of the utmost importance to everyone in our boarding community. We pride ourselves on providing our pupils with a safe and supportive environment, and our pupils make friends and memories in their boarding Houses that will last forever.

ANTHONY MERRETT Director of Admissions Brighton College A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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“ONE WORD: EXCEPTIONAL”

“MOST FORWARD THINKING SCHOOL”

“THERE’S A RICH VEIN OF KINDNESS”

TATLER

THE WEEK

TATLER

United Kingdom School of the Decade THE SUNDAY TIMES

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EDUCATION • HIGHER EDUCATION

WALKING

in the AIR

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University of Brighton researchers touch down after testing ground-breaking devices in space-like conditions

esearchers from the University of Brighton spent a week suspended in space-like conditions as they put two experiments through their paces during weightless parabolic flights.

With space tourism now a realistic prospect, knowledge about zero gravity’s impact on both the body and equipment is more important than ever. The two projects tested, GELL-P and DEPLOY!, both have potential applications for space exploration and on earth. Current student Erin Saltmarsh, who is studying for a MEng Aerospace Engineering, was among the teams on the flights.

Parabolic flights involve a flight pattern whereby the plane goes into freefall producing zero gravity conditions. During

each of three flights researchers went from 1.8 times the force of gravity to weightlessness 30 times per flight as the plane climbed to an altitude of 7,500m before beginning its dive. Each time the flight went into freefall, researchers had around 20 seconds of weightlessness to conduct their experiments.

The GELL-P project team analysed a pioneering lower limb testing kit to learn more about wound healing in space which, in turn, will lead to improved diagnosis.

Led by Rachel Forss from the School of Sport and Health Sciences and the Centre for Regenerative Medicines and Devices, the project is funded by the UK Space Agency and will help future space missions predict the effect of hyper gravity conditions on lower limbs such as those experienced by astronauts, fighter pilots and racing car drivers, as A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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“IT WAS A BIT LIKE SWIMMING UNDERWATER, BUT WITH LESS RESISTANCE AND CONTROL. THE ZERO G EFFECT IS QUITE PLEASANT” well as in everyday healthcare settings with the assessments for patients. The team are the first UK podiatrists to conduct experiments in weightless conditions.

Rachel said of the flight: “It was amazing. A bit like swimming underwater, but with less resistance and control. A unique experience, the zero g is quite pleasant, but the 1.8g on either side is what makes it tiring.”

Rachel explained why testing in these conditions was so important. “As space travel and long-range missions are being developed,” she says, “more knowledge

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on body system behaviour under these micro-gravity and hyper conditions needs to be gained to maintain the health and healing ability of astronauts and could have implications for others exposed to strong gravitational force, including fighter pilots and racing car drivers.”

The research is also important in healthcare. “Narrowing and blocked arteries in the legs and feet become more common with age and when individuals have a number of conditions, which affect about one in five people aged over 60,” Rachel adds.

“As the current population is ageing and life expectancy increases, chronic wounds are becoming more common and costly to health services worldwide, as well as negatively impacting the quality of life of patients.

Identifying and referring people with this condition as quickly as possible is essential.”

The DEPLOY! Project team, including University of Brighton student Erin Saltmarsh, were focused on testing an innovative, flexible heat transportation pulsating heat pipe (PHP), which has potential to be used for space vehicles such as satellites. The device is particularly suitable for space flight because of its lightweight nature and small size, as well as its unique ability to be deployed in three different positions and be folded back against the space vehicle, much like the wing mirrors on a car, minimising the risk of damage from space debris.

The project is a collaboration between the University of Brighton, University of Pisa and the University of Parma with funding provided by the ESA Academy Experiments programme, which provides funding and support for university students to develop their research in the fields of space science and technology, and the UK Space Agency.

Student Erin joined the team following a lecture about the project

by School of Architecture, Technology and Engineering Principal Lecturer and mentor for the first European Low Gravity Research Association mentoring scheme (ELGRA), Dr Nicolas Miché, who then introduced her to team leader Alessandro Billi, an aerospace engineer at the University of Pisa.

Erin said of the experience: “The flights were amazing. We couldn’t have hoped for a more successful project and have collected some good data. We are now processing the data from the flights.

“When I started my degree, I never expected to be doing a parabolic flight. I’m excited and nervous, it’s an incredible chance and I’ve learned so much from being part of it.” brighton.ac.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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“

I have made friends for life.

Be inspired Be brilliant Be you BOOK YOUR VISIT FOR YEAR 9 OR SIXTH FORM ENTRY AD LANCING COLLEGE.indd 73

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BUILDING

BRICKS Lego brick building clubs can be a game changer for neurodiverse children – helping them develop social skills, make friends and have a whole lot of fun

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any parents can testify to Lego’s incredible power to engage children in creative play for hours, even days, at a time. But now the tiny brick’s superpower is being put to educational use in a brilliantly constructive way for neurodiverse young people at Brick Club – a place to build, play and learn among likeminded friends.

Brick Club is the brainchild of Play Included, a Cambridgeshire-based community interest company and a LEGO Foundation partner. The idea began almost two decades back, when Play Included founder and director Dr Gina Gómez de la Cuesta was starting out her Clinical Psychology PhD at the Autism Research Centre in Cambridge. She heard about a pioneering Lego therapy methodology being devised in the US by Dr Dan LeGoff to support neurodiverse

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children and young adults – he’d been in touch with the Autism Research Centre to tell them what he was up to.

This tied in with Gina Gómez’ own interests and research specialism and the use of Lego to support play and learning for neurodiverse children became the theme of her doctorate at UEA. Later, she went on to co-author the professional manual LEGO-Based Therapy with, among others, Dr Dan LeGoff. Fast forward to 2018 and she founded Bricks for Autism, now called Play Included.

Gómez and her colleagues at Play Included run an innovative programme for health and education professionals.

Called Brick-by-Brick, it teaches them how to facilitate Brick Clubs. Everything they learn is evidence based, grounded in the thinking and approaches found in Lego-Based Therapy. “Since the company began, we’ve trained 3,886 professionals – teachers, health professionals, play therapists, psychologists, occupational

DR GINA GÓMEZ DE LA CUESTA FOUNDER OF PLAY INCLUDED

therapists and other similar professions – and in 58 countries around the world,” says Gómez.

Brick Club has proved to be versatile, scalable and transferable, working across different age groups, needs

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EDUCATION • SEN

“You’ve got a joint focus on a task, so you don’t have to have forced conversation or small talk” and settings (it’s typically recommended for age five up to adulthood). Recently, the team even undertook small-scale pilots in deprived areas of Mexico and Kenya and were pleasantly surprised by the outcomes. “There are some cultural adaptations and differences you’ve got to think about in different settings, but we’ve had really positive outcomes from those small pilots in Mexico and Kenya.”

What this programme teaches is a method of play facilitation that removes many of the key issues for neurodiverse children in group settings. Sessions at Brick Club are designed so they are flexible, meeting the needs and interests

of the members. Sometimes children can play different roles (known as Engineer, Builder and Supplier). Or they can opt for ‘freestyle’ building in pairs or small groups. More advanced builders can have a go at stop-motion animation, coding and programming. Whatever the activity (and there are lots), they have the opportunity to take charge and start making decisions together.

What underpins Brick Club is, of course, the simple idea of play. This comes easily and naturally to most children, and it’s important for social and emotional development, but we know play is not easy for everyone. But one

of the many clever things about Brick Club is that neurodiverse children often come into their own with Lego bricks. “A lot of the kids already know Lego and they feel like it’s something they are good at,” says Gómez.

“Often these kids are used to being told that they’re not very good at this or that and have to have extra help – but here is something that they are good A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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SESSIONS ARE LOW STRESS AND FLEXIBLE, REMOVING MANY OF THE BARRIERS NEURODIVERSE AND ANXIOUS CHILDREN CAN FACE IN SOCIAL AND PLAY SITUATIONS

“For facilitators to be able to say ‘wow, you’re really amazing at this’ is so positive”

at.” So children who turn up for Brick Club are not faced with what Gómez describes as that same old round of “negative stories”. Rather than being that child in need of extra help, Brick Club is highlighting what they can do. “This comes at it from a positive – it’s building on their strengths and what they like.”

While building things together is the fun bit, there’s a broader goal behind it. Brick Club helps children socialise

without those challenging moments inherent in so many other organised and spontaneous activities – the things that raise their anxiety levels. “You don’t have to have that face-to-face communication.

You’ve got a joint focus on a task – a physical thing – and you’re all looking at the instructions, so you don’t have to have forced conversation or small talk.”

For many children, this is a game changer – and so Brick Club is described as a low social anxiety situation for very good reason. It’s turn up, agree a task and get going. Gina Gomez remains impressed by the sheer skill demonstrated when they do get going. “The visual strengths of these kids are brilliant,” she says. “And for facilitators to be able to say ‘wow, you’re really amazing at this’ is so positive.”

Of course, along the way, children are building all sorts of useful life skills – teamwork, sharing, meeting new people, accepting different opinions, not getting upset when things go wrong. Building with bricks also builds strong friendships.

“They feel like they belong to the Club, that they’ve got friends who share similar interests. It’s just a natural way to play and work through developing these skills, using a skill they already have,” says Gómez.

“Sometimes, Brick Club is the only positive thing that has happened in their week.”

For free play resources designed for neurodiverse children you can try at home, visit playincluded.com

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Together we create magical moments.

Everyday is magical when Mickey Mouse is around. Get to relive that magical time when you were a kid through the eyes of your baby discovering the famous Mickey Mouse for the first time. Watch your children’s eyes light up with wonder and excitement.

With the new Disney | Stokke® Collection, whether it’s sitting, sleeping or even bath time, you get to add an extra dose of magic to your everyday life. So, let's embrace that magic together, as we watch our children grow, learn, and discover the world.

Disney I Stokke® Collection

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©Disney

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A LEVELS IN ONE YEAR A truly unique, accelerated programme: • Live lessons every day, in every subject • Daily tutorials and subject clinics with teachers • Structured self-study materials to keep students on-track • Two residential modules to develop exam and practical skills • Individually-tailored university application support

Biology, Chemistry, Economics, Maths, Further Maths, Physics

For students who wish to change academic direction, need a back-up plan or a resit, want an alternative to a foundation year or to fit their studies around other commitments or... just do things differently!

To find out more go to www.charterhouseonline.co.uk or email admissions@charterhouseonline.co.uk

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Head of Prep at Slindon College, Lara Bicker, on how Speech-to-Text and Text-to-Speech technology are making a real difference

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lindon College provides a specialist learning environment and highly individualised education to pupils from Year 4 through to Sixth Form. Underpinning the ethos of the school is the strong pastoral care and small class sizes which ensure pupils thrive as their strengths are understood and called upon to encourage further learning exploration.

Assistive Technology (AT), specifically Text-to-Speech (TTS) technology, aims to assist pupils who struggle with reading by providing access to text through audio output.

Similarly Speech-to-Text (STT)

technology supports pupils in expressing their ideas verbally and then converting this into written text. Both tools are utilised in the school and are helping pupils with their learning on a daily basis.

Studies have found that AT has the potential to promote pupils’ participation and active engagement in lessons, thereby promoting inclusive practices within educational settings.

TTS technology has also shown positive effects on reading comprehension for pupils with reading difficulties. It has been found that hearing words being read aloud can enhance comprehension, making TTS software a valuable tool for improving reading levels.

Lara Bicker explains: “STT and TTS technology in the classroom shows

“THIS INCREASED CONFIDENCE IS LEADING TO A GREATER WILLINGNESS TO ENGAGE IN WRITING ”

EDUCATION • FOCUS

benefits in supporting pupils with specific needs in reading and writing and improving self-esteem. This increased confidence is frequently leading to a greater willingness to engage in writing tasks and a more positive attitude towards writing overall. STT and TTS technology is also benefiting pupils by helping them have a better organisation of ideas.”

The findings of Lara’s study indicated an improvement in accuracy in written work as a benefit of students using SST and TTS technology, suggesting that these tools assist students in producing written content with fewer errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation, or other aspects of accuracy. In the study pupils reported increased writing productivity as a benefit, and barriers such as typing speed or physical limitations were removed, meaning pupils were more able to express their ideas in written form, resulting in higher productivity.

This technology, including specialised apps and reader pens, is used daily at Slindon College and this use aligns with the College’s commitment to providing high-quality support and interventions for pupils who are experiencing difficulties in their learning. By exploring the impact of AT on pupils' self-esteem, work output, and the use of technology in the classroom, Lara’s research has helped enhance the school’s understanding of effective strategies and interventions for supporting pupils with additional learning needs.

See for yourself at Slindon College's next Open Morning on 9 March. For more information visit slindoncollege.co.uk or email registrar@slindoncollege.co.uk

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O W T H YSELF

SLINDON COLLEGE

Slindon College is an Independent Specialist Day and Boarding school for boys aged 8-18 located in Sussex

Slindon College provides a stimulating, broad and balanced educational experience for pupils of all academic abilities, taking into account their strengths and talents.

Open Mornings 9.30am-12noon

Register Attendance: 01243 814320

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Saturday 9th March 2024 Saturday 28th September 2024 Private visits available throughout the year

registrar@slindoncollege.co.uk

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www.slindoncollege.co.uk

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EDUCATION • NEWS

EDU CATION NEWS The latest from schools across the county

All in the mind Old meets young On Thursday 30 November, over 140 senior citizens were treated to an afternoon tea and entertainment by students at Burgess Hill Girls. The senior citizens were treated to an afternoon tea and took part in a game of bingo, a quiz and a raffle. Every guest also received a special gift of Christmas decorations made by students in Year 7 and 8 at the school.

“Our motto at Burgess Hill Girls is ‘I am, I can, I should, I will’. It encapsulates the journey students take with us,” says Head, Lars Fox. “When you join Burgess Hill Girls you become part of a unique empowering community where there are no limits.

We love learning at Burgess Hill Girls and this passion extends far beyond the curriculum into all aspects of life. We believe in a complete education and successfully combine an excellent academic provision with a strong pastoral programme and an immense variety of enrichment activities while always focussing on the needs of the individual.” burgesshillgirls.com

Slindon College recently achieved a Silver Standard School Mental Health Award for its outstanding mental health and wellbeing provision. The Award was delivered by the Carnegie Centre of Excellence for Mental Health in Schools.

SENCo and Mental Fitness Team Leader at Slindon College, Adam Sharpe, says: “This award recognises just how much we do to support the mental health of those in our College community. It has also been a catalyst for the college to see how we can support other local settings to improve their mental health provision and share good practice.”

A wide range of mental fitness activities are on offer to all pupils and staff at the College including time to talk sessions are available for all pupils, to talk through feelings, worries or concerns to help process emotions. slindoncollege.co.uk

Force be with you Eastbourne College is celebrating two top honours from the Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex, including a Year 13 pupil being appointed as the Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet for East Sussex in the Combined Cadet Force (CCF). Cadet Warrant Officer First Class (WO1) Alexander Davies, 17, was chosen by Andrew Blackman CStJ, Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex, for his outstanding contribution to his unit.

One of the highest achievements in the cadet forces, the Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet is the aide and representative to the British royal family and the Lord Lieutenant, with cadets chosen every year from the regional cadet forces, and occasionally from the CCF.

The College is also celebrating as Captain Phil Martin, Officer Commanding the Army Section and B Company for Year 10, has been awarded a Lord Lieutenant’s Meritorious Service Award for his contribution to the CCF movement.

Captain Martin has served as an adult volunteer in the CCF for more than 20 years. eastbourne-college.co.uk

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LAST WORD • VENUE why everyone is talking about…

TOM HAMBLET The chef from South Lodge has been crowned the winner of MasterChef: The Professionals

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xclusive Collection was over the moon when Tom Hamblet, the 24-year-old sous chef from South Lodge in West Sussex, was crowned champion of the 16th edition of MasterChef: The Professionals.

To celebrate his achievement, Exclusive Collection has announced that Tom will be taking up residency at two of its properties in 2024 as head chef with menus inspired by his dishes from the competition.

Tom’s first residency will take place at South Lodge’s Camellia restaurant in West Sussex until 31 March, followed by a residency at The Avenue at Lainston House in Winchester from 3 April-30 June. During these exciting residencies, guests visiting will be invited to experience Tom’s culinary brilliance first hand through specially crafted three-course menus, priced at £85.

These menus will feature exquisite dishes inspired by Hamblet’s remarkable journey on MasterChef: The Professionals 2023.

Extending the residencies’ offerings beyond the dining experience, Exclusive Collection will introduce new Dine and Stay packages at each property. These packages present an opportunity for guests to immerse themselves in a complete getaway, indulging in Tom’s culinary creations while enjoying the luxurious accommodations at South Lodge and Lainston House.

Tom’s three-course menu is a testament to his innovation, skill, and dedication to the craft. Stand out dishes will include: • Wood Pidgeon – featuring wood pigeon with crispy onions, celeriac remoulade, celeriac puree, pigeon and chocolate sauce.

• Roasted Scallop – featuring roasted scallop with Jerusalem artichoke puree, marigold oil, artichoke crisps, and a pastry tube with buttermilk and artichoke mousse.

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• Curried Lobster – featuring lobster with curried carrot puree, ginger and chilli bisque, potato, mango and caper salad, and a lime vinaigrette.

• Beef Fillet – featuring beef fillet with oyster mushrooms, a lovage emulsion, pané oyster and salsify, braised beef cheek, accompanied by oyster and beef tartare.

• Chocolate and Peanut Mousse – featuring a chocolate and peanut mousse with feuilletine base, mascarpone Chantilly, nibbed peanut tuille, torched bananas, and miso caramel.

• Chocolate Tart – featuring a baked chocolate tart, blood orange and peppercorn pate de fruit, caramelised popcorn, orange gel and tallicherry pepper ice cream.

The South Lodge Camellia Dine and Stay package starts from £585, exclusive.co.uk

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