The Wellcome Collection's new focus
• COMFORT FOOD Ottolenghi's new recipes
• EARN YOUR STRIPES Two tone interiors
FRESH LOOKS FOR THE NEW SEASON PLUS WORK AND LIFE
News and views from the county's best schools SPECIAL
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Approximately one-third of women suffer from Diastasis recti - the persistent separation of abdominal muscles following pregnancy.
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If you’re seeking a quintessential Maldivian experience, look no further than Sun Siyam Iru Fushi or Sun Siyam Olhuveli for your next getaway. Spend days strolling barefoot, feeling the sand between your toes, unwinding in the serene spa, snorkelling in the technicolour house reef and dining at the huge selection of exceptional restaurants.
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EDITOR IN CHIEF
PENDLE HARTE
MAMA EDITOR
CARLY GLENDINNING
ART DIRECTOR
PAWEL KUBA
SENIOR DESIGNERS
MIKE ROBERTS, SUZETTE SCOBLE
MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER
CARMEN GRAHAM
DESIGNER
MARIANA SUZUKI
PRODUCTION MANAGER
DANICA BRODIE
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GEMMA GRAY
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SHERIF SHALTOUT
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ABSOLUTELY’S September issue highlights 2
As households all over London scramble to get ready for the new term, September brings with it a sense of new beginnings. Even if the start of the academic year means nothing, the end of summer marks a transition, and things seem a bit different now. In this issue we're focusing on education, because now's the time to think about applying for whatever the next stage is. From nurseries and prep schools to secondary schools and boarding establishments, the options can seem endless, so our guide aims to help. Also this month we announce the winners of our annual Mama awards, focusing on all things bumps and babies – plus there's the usual mix of things to do, places to eat and inspirations for home, travel and fashion. Whether it's back to school for you this month or nor, enjoy September.
PENDLE HARTE EDITOR
Ahkeke London is a premium womenswear and jewellery brand, with a focus on European cra smanship. They pride themselves on offering a curated selection of handcra ed pieces, blending contemporary designs with timeless elegance. ahkeke.co.uk
The Cavendish cabin bag from Timothy London is a well-designed case that combines beauty with strength and a luxurious leather finish. £1,395 timothy.london
The Dashing Gent Luxury Scented Candle evokes cultured charm and refi ned manners with aromas of spices, leather, patchouli, moss and tobacco. It comes in a stylish pot hand decorated with 22 carat gold. £58 chaseandwonder.com
Dancer and infl uencer Danielle Peazer is transforming the activewear industry with her brand Lavetta. These stylish, sustainable basics are comfortable and performance focused, with an eco-conscious ethos. la-vetta.com
The new Miss Dior fl ap bag is cra ed in black patent calfskin and has a timeless aesthetic contrasted by a modern enamel plate with the collection's hallmark Miss Dior Graffiti signature. £2,750. dior.com
Zinnia is a sunglass oozing in style with a timeless aesthetic. Re-interpreting the classic aviator shape, it's made from high . theavantguard.com
Rockett St George's block print bedding comes in an unusual dark inky shade to create a splash of drama in the bedroom. rockettstgeorge.com
The Neal's Yard Remedies Wild Rose Moisturising SPF 30 is a luxurious and effective moisturiser for summer skin. With a unique blend of rosehip oil, green tea extract, and vitamins A and E, it provides long-lasting hydration and antioxidant protection. nealsyardremedies.com
Aubade's Midnight Whisper babydoll is cra ed from a luxurious stretch silk satin for a so , sensual feel. The nightwear collection is available at Amelies Follies. ameliesfollies.co.uk
The Rolling Pin Paintings by Daniel Eatock is a series of paintings on paper and wood that explore a range of spatial and functional ideas. scp.co.uk
The UK’s
– and his talented cast present a breath-taking recreation of a live Elvis
concert, an epic audio-visual journey through time.
SUNDAY 24 OCT
Experience rock and roll nostalgia with Walk Right Back, telling the story of The Everly Brothers’ unparalleled vocal magic.
https://www.atgtickets.com/venues/ new-wimbledon-theatre/
THE LEHMAN TRILOGY
The landmark, Tony Award®winning National Theatre and Neal Street production of The Lehman Trilogy, returns to London's West End this autumn for a strictly limited encore season. Directed by Academy Award, Tony Award and Golden Globe winner Sam Mendes, and hailed as ‘a genuinely epic production’ by The New York Times, The Lehman Trilogy is a sweeping story of a family spanning generations and a company that changed the world. Performances begin 24 September at the Gillian Lynne Theatre. thelehmantrilogy.com
ONGOING, THE VAULTS, WATERLOO
This clandestine secret society of magicians promises an unforgettable evening of revelry in an immersive experience unlike any other. Expect world-class magic, captivating live jazz, and sultry cabaret performances from some of London’s top immersive talent, all accompanied by free-flowing cocktails from the award-winning Tom Savano.
rhythmandruse.com
5 September - 3 November
PICTUREHOUSE CENTRAL
The Magician’s Table will see guests gather from across the globe at the wake of the Great Dieter Roterberg. Spanning two hours, the experience will see guests delight in close-up magic from the UK’s finest magicians as they uncover a tale of love, loss and mystery set against a backdrop of exceptional live music and expertly crafted cocktails. magicianstablelive.com
To 8 September THE OTHER PALACE
This hit musical brings to life incredible – and often forgotten – women who have changed the course of history as we know it, from Rosa Parks to Marie Curie, Frida Kahlo to Jane Austen, and many more, based on the popular book by Kate Pankhurst).. fantasticallygreatwomenthemusical.com
28 August - 8 September
COLISEUM
The State Ballet of Georgia is considered among the world’s 10 best classical companies, with a 175 year history and comes to London for a limited run. This breathtakingly beautiful production of Swan Lake with gorgeous white tutus and sumptuous lakeside and ballroom settings will draw audiences into the fantasy of the world’s most loved ballet. londoncoliseum.org
23 September - 14 December
THEATRE ROYAL HAYMARKET
Didi and Gogo wait by a tree for a man named Godot. They don’t know who he is, why they are meeting or what time he is coming – only that something incredible could happen when he does… Samuel Beckett’s classic play is directed by James Macdonald, starring Lucian Msamati as Estragon and Ben Whishaw as Vladimir. waitingforgodotplay.com
Recommended by Lisa Baker
WThis Month’s Must See
ar Child and Art on a Postcard take over 180 Studios with Sound & Vision, a fundraising exhibition and auction that sees leading contemporary artists respond to one iconic David Bowie lyric “We like dancing and we look divine”, from the track Rebel Rebel.
25 SEPTEMBER, JAZZ CAFE
omposer and producer Camilo Lara, aka Mexican Institute of Sound, is one of the most prominent names in Latin American music and culture and the Grammy-winner and eight-time Latin Grammy nominee is set to return to London for a rare full band show at the Jazz Café. Widely regarded as a pioneer of the Mexican electronica movement, M.I.S’s music elevates every dancefloor with his trademark blend of Cumbia and Cha-Cha-Cha. comono.co.uk
Curated by Art on a Postcard founder Gemma Peppé, Sound & Vision features new original work from Bowie’s lifelong friend George Underwood, National Portrait Gallery BP Portrait Awardwinning painter Ishbel Myerscough, Harland Miller, Jonathan Schofield, and Andrew Pierre Hart. Other highlights come from Leo Costelloe, Julia Soboleva, Florence Reekie, Peter Messer and Joseph Dupré - an NHS doctor and artist whose art is collected by Wes Anderson. Meanwhile, The British Art Fair opens at The Saatchi Gallery and an unmissable highlight will be the Solo Contemporary exhibition Son of the Soil, by London artist Abe Odedina. The architectturned-painter’s beautiful work blends deities, cutting cultural commentary, and vibrant colour inspired by his Nigerian heritage. Drawing inspiration from Haitian Voodoo practitioners, painters of the Sacred Heart, anonymous African craftsmen and his daily walks in Brixton, Abe’s work revives and deconstructs classic themes. Presented by The African Art Hub and Virginia Damtsa. British Art Fair, Saatchi Gallery, 26-29 September Photography highlights include WarholMania, at the Warhol Kennedy Residence, bringing together incredible images of the Pop artist, his entourage and life at the infamous Silver Factory taken by 1960s New York photographers Billy Name and William John Kennedy. Plus the first UK solo exhibition of Alice Mann’s award-winning ‘Drummies’ at the David Hill Gallery, opening on 19 September.
BY SARAH CROMPTON
On paper, it sounds impossible. In three acts, and three hours, three men play more than 70 characters and tell the story of world capitalism through the prism of a collapsing family business. On stage, The Lehman Trilogy is a sensation, a history lesson, a family saga, and an astonishing theatrical conjuring trick that brings cheering audiences to their feet.
the play charts their journey from the fabric store Henry founded in 1844 in Montgomery, Alabama, through the Wall Street crash of 1929, to dominance in WW2 and ultimate disaster, it tells the story of a family and the changing country in which they live.
Since its premiere in 2018 at the National Theatre, The Lehman Trilogy has been a hit. Directed by multi-award-winning director Sam Mendes, the production quickly transferred to the West End and New York, sweeping up five Tony Awards® during its 2021 run on Broadway, including Best Play and Best Director.
The story of The Lehman Trilogy begins at the end, in an empty o ce full of cardboard boxes, after the collapse in 2008 of the mighty Lehman Brothers, the bank thought to be too big to be allowed to fail. It was the largest bankruptcy in American history, triggering the World Financial Crisis. These seismic events have shaped the global economy ever since.
It does this through the performances of three superb actors – Aaron Krohn, Howard W Overshown and John He ernan - who embody not only successive generations of the Lehmans, but also plantation owners, city tycoons, rabbis, lovers, wives, slipping between the characters with the help of a changed voice, an upturned collar, a nod of the head, a tiny hand gesture.
They are supported by Es Devlin’s dazzling glass box set and Nick Powell’s haunting piano score, played live during every performance by Cat Beveridge. Essentially, the actors are engaged in an act of theatrical transformation, weaving a vast myth-like narrative from the simplest of means.
JOHN HEFFERNAN, HOWARD W. OVERSHOWN AND AARON KROHN
But the genius of The Lehman Trilogy is that it roots these economic shockwaves in the deeply human story of Henry, Emanuel and Mayer, three immigrant brothers who come from Rimpar, Bavaria, to make their way in the “magical music box called America.” As
In telling the panoramic history of the fraying of a certain type of American capitalism, The Lehman Trilogy asks huge questions about the point we have reached, the price we have paid, and whether it has been worth paying. But above all it tells a family saga we can all relate to – full of tears and laughter, loves and hates, triumphs, and disasters. All with three actors on a stage.
Playing at the Gillian Lynne Theatre from 24 September until 5 January 2025
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Hard Graft is a new exhibition exploring experiences of physical work and its impacts on health and the body. Making connections between undervalued labour, the people who do it and the spaces where it happens, this exhibition brings into focus the people whose health, work and rights remain hidden on the margins of society.
Hard Graft focuses on three places of work: the Plantation, the Street and the Domestic Space, each a distinct location for often hard physical labour, where conditions may be precarious or unsafe, and workers have little or no access to healthcare, a stable income
or basic rights. From sex work to street vending, and domestic work to prison labour, the exhibition highlights how unregulated and stigmatised work practices have reinforced healthcare inequalities throughout history, and continue to do so today.
Featuring more than 100 objects, with artworks from Brazil, Bangladesh, Trinidad, Sudan, Peru, South Africa, Indonesia, Mexico and the USA, to name a few, the exhibition draws upon the interconnections of working practices across di erent geographies. Contemporary and historic accounts highlight the histories of resistance and the power of collective action by workers in response to their working conditions – from organised protest to spiritual and medicinal healing practices.
Contemporary and historic accounts highlight the histories of resistance and the power of collective action
Objects from Wellcome’s collection will include Histoire générale des insectes de Surinam et de toute l'Europe (1771), a publication by the pioneering naturalist Maria Sibylla Merian, whose research on plants was heavily influenced by enslaved women from a sugar plantation in Suriname, and Street Life in London (1877), by John Thomson and Adolphe Smith, a rare collection of photographs that brought public attention to the precarious labour conditions of working-class Londoners and considered to be one of the earliest examples of social documentary photography.
The first section of the exhibition focuses on The Plantation. These large-scale expanses of land, centred on exploitative agricultural work, are economic systems of mass production and an early form of capitalist practice that still exists today. It highlights common health impacts faced by plantation workers, including poor body development, malnutrition and disease, emphasising the need for more equitable and suitable practices. A 19th century lithograph reveals the power dynamics of how work was
performed in tea plantations in China, and is shown with the photographic series, Dark Garden (2022-ongoing), by Md Fazla Rabbi Fatiq who has documented tea plantation work in Sylhet, Bangladesh since 2018.
Charmaine Watkiss’ multi-media installation celebrates the ancestral intergenerational traditions of herbal medicine, used to secretly cure illnesses and prevent diseases as an act of resistance in plantations – knowledge that is still preserved by the broader African diaspora today.
The Street explores a place where workers are often unprotected by labour laws and at the hands of increasing urban developments and gentrification. This section focuses on unregulated labour and jobs that can be dangerous, including sanitation workers, waste pickers and sex workers. Photographs, posters and ephemera are shown alongside a new commission by artist Lindsey Mendick, in collaboration with members of the SWARM collective, which will tell forgotten and untold stories of sex workers within an intricate multimedia installation.
Hard Graft closes with The Domestic Space, interrogating the notion of the home as a workplace. Bringing together archival materials with contemporary artworks, the section examines gendered practices of work, focussing on the roles that have been constructed by society for women.
The Domestic Space also looks at unwaged, low paid and unrecognised labour, such as cleaning work and domestic work, mostly performed by migrant women and often leading to exploitative working and living conditions behind closed doors. It spotlights some of the collective movements that have
campaigned for better working conditions and greater recognition of women’s health issues in the workplace. Highlights include a print by Louise Bourgeois from the Femme Maison (1984) series, connecting to women’s relationships with the domestic sphere, suggesting it as both an oppressive and exposing environment, and Lubaina Himid’s vibrant series Metal Handkerchief (2019), which playfully decontextualises the language of British health and safety manuals, repositioning them as instructions for life. Also in this section, Shannon Alonzo’s sculpture, Washerwoman (2018), pays homage to the heritage of her ancestors' labour in Trinidad and the Caribbean, in particular the historically underrepresented labour-intensive work of women and how it impacts the body.
Hard Graft, 19 September 2024 – 27 April 2025 wellcomecollection.org
The History Boys is an unmissable comedydrama that’ll have you contemplating life and all its small glories
By SEÁN LINNEN
If the role of a writer is to be an observer – someone who keeps their eyes open when everyone else’s are shut – then Alan Bennett has spent a lifetime doing just that. His 2005 collection of prose is titled Untold Stories, and it’s hard to think of another writer who has dedicated their career to uncovering the tales of those living on the periphery.
The History Boys is no di erent. A ragtag bunch of She eld teenagers on the threshold of adulthood and yearning for a life outside the mundanity of their school bubble. Their sights set on the most illustrious universities and their ticket out of the humdrum: Oxford and Cambridge. As the play unfolds, we discover their soaring hopes, their crippling fears and their heart-stopping sadness, but all the while with Alan’s trademark sparkling wit coursing underneath.
“The magic of Alan's work is that it speaks so truthfully to so many”
The magic of Alan’s work is that it speaks so truthfully to so many. Sitting in the audience for one of his plays you can feel the collective unbuttoning as hundreds of people acknowledge their own sadness, their own loneliness, their promises unfulfilled and their hopes that come to nothing. He can be wickedly mischievous and casually devastating all in a single sentence. He has such glorious big-heartedness and such withering wit. He is curious and caring, honest and absurd, uproarious and dazzling. It’s a privilege to be reviving The History Boys in Alan’s 90th birthday year. I hope you can join us.
Seán Linnen is the director of The History Boys, which is at Richmond Theatre from Tuesday 29 October-Saturday 2 November. Atgtickets.com/Richmond
“THE STORY CONTAINS ALL THE BEAUTY AND THE CRUELTY OF MANKIND”
Max Bowden on returning to Birdsong, the importance of the story and moving on from EastEnders
By THEO BOSANQUET
Q You’re coming back to Birdsong having appeared in a production back in 201516. How does it feel to be returning?
A Strange! I was so young and naive back then in terms of the industry. It feels almost like a coming of age tale to be back with the show nearly a decade later, even though the time has passed really quickly. It’s bittersweet – while it’s great to be having a crack at such a well written character, it reminds me that I’m getting old!
Q You played Tipper last time, and Jack Firebrace this time. Could you tell us a bit about Jack?
A Jack is a sapper, one of the Royal Engineers, and he has a lot of heart and charisma. He’s representative of the kind of camaraderie a lot of the men had in the trenches. He’s always trying to lift the others up, even though he’s su ering from missing his wife and son back home. He’s a real testament to the ‘keep calm and carry on spirit’ of the time.
Q Sebastian Faulks’ novel is 30 years old this year. Why do you think it continues to resonate with people?
A Thematically, it’s as pertinent as it has ever been. Sadly we are living in a more divided society, in a world in conflict. The story contains all of the beauty and the cruelty of mankind. I also think it’s important to inform the youth of today and their decisions by showing them what their ancestors went through to fight for their freedom.
Q What we can expect with this production?
A It cleverly emulates the way that war is so harsh on the senses. The creative and technical team have created a brilliant design and soundscape that really takes you into the Western Front, while also juxtaposing it with the softness and beauty of what came before.
Q You recently left EastEnders after five years playing Ben Mitchell. How did that experience shape you as an actor?
A EastEnders is one of the hardest gigs, if not the hardest gig, in acting, because a lot of the time you have to strip away your technique and rely on impulse. I carry quite a lot of ‘the method’ in my approach to my acting, and it’s easy to get a bit lost in the work as a result. So it’s shaped me in that I no longer approach anything with fear. It’s a brilliant place to hone your skills.
Q What does it mean to honour the memory of men like Jack Firebrace?
A Honouring the memory of anybody from that era is so important, but I think Jack is particularly special. He’s selfless, and sees it as his duty to keep everybody’s morale up and focussed on their purpose. I think he represents the everyman who fought in the trenches, so for me it’s just so important to keep telling his story.
Q Are you looking forward to hitting the road in Birdsong?
A I can’t wait. A great thing about touring is the way the story hits di erently in di erent locations. I love that about our country.
Birdsong is at Richmond Theatre 1-5 October. Atgtickets.com/Richmond
The anticipation, a union of beating hearts, Ascot an amphitheatre, the crowd roar, they’re neck and neck, immortality awaits, only six will be remembered… Will you be there?
With 14 years of sporting scripts already consigned to history, QIPCO British Champions Day returns to bring the flat racing season to a close in what is guaranteed to be a deafening crescendo. On 19 October, battles will be won and lost by the finest of margins, the length of a nose or a head the di erence between glory and despair on Ascot’s hallowed turf.
From Frankel’s final farewell in 2012 to Frankie Dettori’s swansong aboard King of Steel just last year, the day has seen legends thrive and heroes depart. Baaeed, Cracksman,
Enable and Stradivarius have etched their magic memories into the minds of millions over recent years, so who will be next in 2024?
Britain’s richest fixture is the ultimate raceday, one that sees the meeting of champions both human and equine for the crowning of new Kings and Queens. The highest quality horses, best jockeys and masterfully skilled trainers will all congregate at QIPCO British Champions Day to contest six top-class races over a range of distances, a spectacle comparable to nothing else in Europe. As well as the coronation of Champion Jockey and Trainer elect, they will celebrate the past along with the present, inducting three racing legends into the QIPCO British Champions Series Hall of Fame on the day. Always a time to reminisce and reflect on the contribution of those that have graced the stage at Champions Day in years past, come
together to appreciate true greatness and celebrate the achievement of the inductees. With something for everyone to enjoy and representing excellent value for money, you will not want to miss a moment of the Champions Day celebrations. Fun-filled family friendly activity is guaranteed, why not meet a retired racehorse and learn about their career o the track or enjoy a masterclass from three-time champion jockey, Oisin Murphy? Face painting, VR experiences and other interactive activities will take place throughout the day and, of course, in true QIPCO British Champions Day style, they will conclude with an afterparty, this time headlined by the world-famous Hot Chip.
As this scintillating summer of sport draws to a close, celebrate the best that Britain and the rest of the world has to o er by purchasing your Queen Anne Enclosure ticket for just £32. Both King Edward VII and Winning Post Enclosures are selling fast so to avoid disappointment and secure your place at the ultimate raceday, book now.
britishchampionsday.com
Wine recommendations for the month
By THE WINE SOCIETY
The Wine Society’s Generation Series Crémant de Loire 2020
£14.50
A classic blend based on the chenin blanc grape variety, with cabernet franc, and a little chardonnay and grolleau. It displays chenin and cabernet's freshness and minerality, its aromas enhanced by a hint of red fruits from the grolleau, rounded on the palate by chardonnay's body and texture.
Forage Supply Co Rib Tickler Barossa Valley Shiraz 2023
£22.50
Deep, intense but brilliantly vibrant red, with a nose of cassis, clove, pepper, plum and a lick of sweet spices. The palate is velvety, full and juicy. The profit from Forage's wines goes towards their social care projects in South Australia.
Mendes and Symington Contacto Alvarinho Vinho Verde 2023
£16.00
From the Monção e Melgaço sub-region of northern Portugal, the natural home of the alvarinho grape, and made by one of its finest producers, who uses a little skin contact (hence the name) to give structure to this invigorating linear dinner-table white.
Since it was founded back in 1874, The Wine Society has dared to do business a little differently. Bringing together a community united by a shared love of wine, The Society is a co-operative and owned by its members. This means there is no requirement to pump profit into annual dividends or bonuses for shareholders – all profits go back into the business.
The Wine Society welcomes all wine lovers. Become a member today and receive £20 off toward your first order. thewinesociety.com
London’s food news and most exciting openings this month
By PENDLE HARTE
PIRAÑA London is a new entertainment-led restaurant in St James. The venue includes a bar, restaurant, and an immersive floating 12-seat private dining room enclosed by one-way windows, serving up Nikkei cuisine, a Peruvian and Japanese fusion whose hero dishes include a wide variety of ceviches, premium sushi, Kushiaki skewers, and an indulgent Caviar and Belvedere Bump Experience. piranalondon.com
Baked treats
Eat Momo in Borough Yards serves a small menu of Nepali delicacies, centred around the steamed dumplings known as Momo. Founded by sisters Trishna and Dipa Chamling, this is a small Momo factory in the heart of the city, o ering a Nepali canteen specialising in handmade dumplings. eatmomo.uk
MR PORTER
This new modern Lebanese bakery in Belgravia has a focus on two of Lebanon’s most popular bakes: purse-shaped ka’ak and manouche flatbreads made-to-order. commonbreads.com
Devon’s Exploding Bakery is popping up at Paddingtons' Pilgrm Hotel throughout September with the finest artisan cakes, including exclusive creations like the Paddington Brownie and a special Banana Bread French Toast dish. thepilgrm.com
Designed by Baranowitz + Kronenberg, Amsterdam favourite Mr Porter is set to bring a new high-energy atmosphere to Mayfair with its 360-degree bar and open-plan kitchen. Signature dishes include Roast Beef Carpaccio, Avocado Carpaccio with Beluga Caviar and Prawn Salad with Grilled Corn Avocado & Dried Chilli Sauce, plus Ribeye on the bone. mrportersteakhouse.com
Our new favourite is the pastrami roll, featuring Kiln-smoked pastrami from Chapel & Sawn, mustard mayonnaise and Eaten Alive’s ‘Bread & Butter’ style pickled Cucumbers, piled into the new rolls. gails.com
SUSHI REVOLUTION
Contemporary Japanese restaurant Sushi Revolution has opened its second site on Curtain Road, Shoreditch this month, following the success of the original site in Brixton. Sushi Revolution is a modern interpretation of a traditional Japanese Izakaya.
sushirevolution.co.uk
Following the success of Kolamba, which opened in Soho in 2019, Kolamba East has opened on Blossom Street with a modern take on Sri Lankan home-cooking, bringing the bold and vibrant flavours of Colombo to east London. FROM
kolamba.co.uk
Culinary art in the form of a tasting menu in Kensington
By PENDLE HARTE
Launceston Place may have been feeding the well-heeled of W8 for many years, but don’t assume that the kitchen is sta ed by old timers with a love of tradition. Chef Patron Ben Murphy took the helm in 2017 at the age of just 24, and since then he has won several awards, including the prestigious National Chef of the Year from the Craft Guild of Chefs. Here he maintains an impressive tasting menu to show o his skills to maximum e ect, and that’s what we’re here for.
It’s a bright, curved building with a light interior and a formal – but not too formal – feel. Tablecloths are starched and sta are suited, but still it’s comfortable and not stu y. The menu itself is a novelty: it takes the form of a plastic games board where you use counters to hide the dishes you don’t want. Irrelevant for us, of course, because we’re having all the courses, plus all the wines on the pairing list.
A tasting menu is not for the weak, and definitely not on a Wednesday evening. From the start, we are participants in an immersive art piece, not just people having dinner.
“We’re participants in an immersive art piece, not people having dinner”
Everything is small, beautiful and suprising –and very, very clever. First o are amuse bouches: a tiny crispy potato pu filled with mature Comte and covered with a layer of chives (a single mouthful of rich deliciousness) and an espresso cup of light and lovely vichyssoise with wild garlic and tru e. Next, a ceramic chicken’s foot-shaped egg cup with a broken eggshell filled with a light and intriguing mouthful of jerusalem artichoke mousse with a hint of egg, plus some crispy sourdough soldiers. With this there’s an unusual Alsace riesling, with slight kerosene notes, in a delicious way. Then there’s a small mound of salt-baked celeriac with pecorino and mint that’s improbably tasty and well matched with a chardonnay from the Cape. Next, a perfect cube of monkfish with lemongrass, beans and dill, and after that some mouthfuls of sweet and richly spiced duck with beetroot, and a crispy layered potato cake. A pre-dessert comprises compressed pineapple with camomile and coconut, while the main act is a single, large strawberry made of cream, almond and sesame with a striking shiny red glaze. Murphy’s vision is striking – this isn’t just dinner, it’s entertainment and education too.
launcestonplace-restaurant.co.uk
By PENDLE HARTE
BOTIVO
Botivo, the award-winning big-sipping botanical aperitivo (0% ABV), has launched a new aperitivo in partnership with brasserie Maison François. This premium drink blends the aromatic and licorice notes of star anise and fennel pollen found in Pastis, with the floral essence of chamomile, and the bitter undertones of artichoke and woody gentian root. botivodrinks.com
Gin Mare’s gin has a distinct savoury flavour, made using hero ingredients rosemary, basil, thyme and local Arbequina olives (and comes in a gorgeous bottle). This makes it perfect for pairing alongside food and the ultimate late summer serve.
Distilled in an old fishing village just outside Barcelona, the gin is made using traditional techniques from the Mediterranean ginmare.com
SOLARO CAPRI
Solaro Capri Gin named after Capri’s highest mountain, Monte Solaro, is a smooth, refreshing blend of aromatic citrus and complex spices that capture the exuberant and vibrant nature of Capri and o ers the authentic Italian luxury gin experience. boutique-brands.com
The cocktail celebrates 70 years
To celebrate 70 years since the invention of the Pina Colada at the Caribe Hilton in 1954, Hilton has launching an exclusive cocktail and mocktail menu, serving four new culturally modern adaptations of the world-famous Piña Colada with twists inspired by San Juan, Amsterdam and Tokyo. These sumptuous creations will be available at all Hilton Hotels & Resorts properties across the UK, until the end of September.
• PIÑA NATURA created by Matteo Giannuzzi, the flavours are inspired by the essence of San Juan, using zero waste techniques and vibrant tropical flavours like fresh lime to celebrate the cocktail’s Puerto Rican origins.
• VAMOS is a delicious collision of cultures, created at Conrad Tokyo by Daichi Tanaka, mixes the classic elements of the Piña Colada and infuses it with traditional Japanese flavours such as sake and daichi.
• SPECULADA combines the famous DoubleTree by Hilton and fan favourites Dutch Speculaas Cookies, created by the We Are Eden team at DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal, this drink is a harmony of nostalgia and indulgence with a crumbled cookie garnish and speculaas syrup.
• ZERO COLADA is perfect for those looking for non-alcoholic options without compromising on the much loved taste of refreshing pineapple and classic coconut. The menu is in honour of the original creation of the cocktail, which was developed at Caribe Hilton in Puerto Rico in 1954 after three months of experimentation by bartender Ramón “Monchito” Marrero. The Piña Colada has been much loved for its delicious and refreshing mix of rum, pineapple and coconut, delivering that holiday feeling with every sip.
New feel-good recipes from Yotam Ottolenghi and Helen Goh
Serves 4
If you make the tomato anchovy oil a day ahead here, you can then delight in the fact that a midweek supper can be on the table within 20 minutes. The fuss-free cooking method – all hail the traybake! Plus the dialled-up flavours – all hail puttanesca! – makes such a winning combination.
• 200g fine green beans, trimmed 6 spring onions, cut widthways into thirds (75g)
• 200g mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
• 6 skin-on salmon fillets (about 720g)
• salt and black pepper
Tomato anchovy oil
• 85ml olive oil
• 8 anchovies, finely chopped (25g)
• 2½ tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp chilli flakes
• 2 tsp coriander seeds, lightly bashed in a mortar
• 8 garlic cloves, very thinly sliced
• 2 preserved lemons, flesh and pips discarded, skin finely chopped (20g)
• 2 tsp maple syrup
Salsa
• 60g pitted Kalamata olives, halved 60g capers, roughly chopped
• 1 preserved lemon, flesh and pips discarded, skin thinly sliced (10g)
• 10g basil leaves, roughly chopped
• 10g parsley leaves, roughly chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil; 2tsp lemon juice
METHOD
1 First make the tomato anchovy oil. Put the oil, anchovies and tomato paste into a small sauté pan and place on a medium heat. Once the mixture starts to simmer, cook for 5 minutes, stirring from time to time. Add the chilli flakes and coriander seeds and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Remove from the heat and add the garlic, preserved lemon and maple syrup. Stir to combine, then set aside to cool.
2 Preheat the oven to 220°C fan.
3 Place the beans, spring onions and tomatoes on a large, parchment-lined baking tray. Drizzle over 3 tablespoons of the tomato anchovy oil, along with ¼ teaspoon of salt and a good grind of pepper. Toss to combine and place in the oven for 12–13 minutes, until the beans and tomatoes are starting to soften and taking on a little colour. Meanwhile, arrange the salmon fillets on a plate and drizzle the remaining tomato anchovy oil (as well as all the solids) evenly over the fillets. Nestle the salmon fillets among the beans and bake for a further 8 minutes.
4 Mix all the ingredients for the salsa in a small bowl and season with pepper. Spoon half the salsa over the salmon and serve the fish warm (or at room temperature), with the rest of the salsa in a bowl.
Serves 4
Source the larger butter beans, or judiones, for this, if you can. They’re so er, more buttery and much creamier than the smaller ones (which come in a tin). This dish works well as part of a mezze spread, or can be eaten as it is, with crumbled feta or olives on top. Once made, the beans keep for up to 3 days in the fridge: just bring them back to room temperature before serving. The crispy tomato skins are a great thing to have around as well, to add to salads and pasta dishes. The recipe comes from a restaurant called Bar Rochford in Canberra, Australia, where they’re served with fresh green beans.
• 500g cherry tomatoes
• 85ml olive oil
• 1 onion, finely diced (150g)
• 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 2 tsp thyme leaves, roughly chopped
• 1 tsp fennel seeds, toasted and crushed
• 1 fresh bay leaf
• 80ml dry white wine
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 x 700g jar of butter beans, drained and rinsed
• salt and black pepper
To serve
• 75g thick Greek-style yoghurt
• thick slices of sourdough (or any crusty) bread, toasted
1 Preheat the oven to 210°C fan.
2 Toss the tomatoes with 2 teaspoons of the oil and spread them on a parchment-lined baking tray. Roast for 20 minutes, until the skins have loosened and the tomatoes are soft and have shrunk a little. Remove from the oven and transfer the tomatoes, along with all their juices, to a shallow bowl to cool.
3 Re-line the baking tray with a fresh sheet of baking parchment and reduce the oven temperature to 100°C fan.
4 Once cool enough to handle, pinch the skins o the tomatoes and place the skins on the lined baking tray. Return the tray to the oven for about 45 minutes, until the skins are dry and crisp, giving them a good stir a couple of times during baking. Set the skinless tomatoes aside.
5 Put the remaining 75ml of oil into a medium saucepan and place on a medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, oregano, thyme, fennel seeds and bay leaf and cook for 10–12 minutes, until the onion has softened but has not taken on too much colour. Add the wine, simmer for 2 minutes to reduce, then add the paprika. Cook for another minute, then add the reserved tomato flesh, along with 1 teaspoon of salt. Simmer gently for about 15 minutes, stirring often so that the tomatoes break down. Add the beans and a good grind of pepper and stir to combine. Cook for a couple of minutes, just to warm through, then remove from the heat. Spread the yoghurt over a serving plate and then pile the beans on top. Crumble over the dried tomato skins, finish with a sprinkling of thyme leaves and serve.
“There are two camps when it comes to potato salad: camp mayo and camp oil/broth”
Serves 4
Growing up in Germany, Verena remembers two camps when it came to potato salad: camp mayo and camp oil/broth. This is an oil/ broth-based version, more prevalent in the southern parts of Germany, specifically Swabia and Bavaria. It’s less heavy and claggy than the mayo variety and gets its creaminess from the starch released by the potatoes as they sit for a couple of hours in the warm broth. We’ve strayed from tradition and added some pancetta (because, why not . . . ) and a welcome freshness from some chopped cucumber.
• 500g Pink Fir or Charlotte (or other waxy) potatoes
• 75ml olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (125g)
• 1 garlic clove, crushed
• 175ml chicken stock
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• ½ tsp black peppercorns, coarsely crushed in a pestle and mortar
• 15g chives: 10g finely chopped and 5g cut into 1½cm lengths
• 75g pack of diced smoked pancetta
• 1 tsp paprika
• ¼ cucumber, sliced lengthways, deseeded and cut into ½cm dice (100g)
• salt
METHOD
1 Put the potatoes into a medium saucepan, for which you have a lid. Add just enough water to cover, salt generously and place on a mediumhigh heat. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, covered, for 20–25 minutes, until just tender. Drain and, once cool enough to handle, remove the skins from the potatoes and slice into ½cm-thick rounds. Set aside in a medium bowl.
1 Put 2 tablespoons of the oil into a medium sauté pan and place on a medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring regularly, until caramelised. Add the garlic and stock, bring to a simmer, then remove from the heat. Add the mustard, vinegar, 1¼ teaspoons of salt, the pepper and another 2 tablespoons of oil. Whisk to combine, then pour the mixture over the potatoes. Mix gently but thoroughly: it will look wet (and some of the potatoes will break up), but this is normal. Set aside for about 2 hours, for the potatoes to soak up about half the broth, and then stir in the finely chopped chives.
1 Meanwhile, wipe clean the sauté pan and place on a medium-high heat.
Add the pancetta, reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pancetta is crispy. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to a plate lined with kitchen paper – leave about 1 tablespoon of the fat in the pan – and set aside. Once cool, finely chop the pancetta into crumbs.
1 Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the fat in the pan, along with the paprika. Stir for 30 seconds or so, until fragrant, then remove from the heat.
1 When ready to serve, fold the cucumber into the potato salad and transfer to a serving plate. Scatter over the pancetta crumbs, along with the cut chives. Spoon over the paprika oil and serve.
“Across all of my restaurants, there is an element of tradition, but with a touch of innovation”
simply fresh ingredients. As children we absorb these things, like a sponge, and it’s something I instil in my cooking to this day.
Q When did you first seriously consider a career in cooking?
José Pizarro on coming to London in the 90s, the Bermondsey community and what we can expect from new opening, Lolo
Q Did you catch the cooking bug at a young age?
A Well that’s a good question. Yes and no. From a young age I always loved food, especially my mum’s cooking, but she never used to let me in the kitchen. The real cooking bug came when I moved out and started my first job. I no longer had my mother around to cook for me, so I had to pick up the knives and teach myself. From this point I realised I had a serious passion for food, so I finished my studies as a dentistry technician and started a cookery course.
Q What foodie experiences do you recall growing up?
A Fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional family recipes. Growing up on a farm, I was surrounded by the freshest and finest ingredients - especially the best milk and cheeses - which I’d say deeply influenced my foodie experiences. I developed a deep appreciation for good quality and quite
A It was completely unplanned, I would never say there was a eureka moment or that it was even a decision. Everything just fell into place. I needed to cook for myself, I loved it, I started a course and it’s been an adventure ever since.
Q Why did you initially decide to come to London?
A I initially decided to come to London in 1998 for a few reasons. I wanted to learn English, but mainly it was to understand and learn di erent cooking styles, cuisines and techniques.
Q How di erent was the foodie scene when you first started here?
A The London foodie scene has always been great. When I first moved to London back in the 90s, though, it was a lot simpler and inexpensive. We had authenticity at our disposal - the best Chinese, Japanese, Indian, you name it. It’s completely di erent now, but I love London then and now.
Q How do you look back on opening José on Bermondsey Street in 2011?
A I look back with such fond and great memories. In 2011, I was living around the area,
and it was pure chance I stumbled upon the site. José on Bermondsey Street is my little baby - 13 and a half years later, and it’s still going strong.
Q Have you evolved as a chef since then?
A Yes, I have definitely evolved significantly as a chef since then. Opening José on Bermondsey Street gave me the confidence to venture into further creativity, experimenting with di erent techniques and flavour profiles. Across all of my restaurants, there is an element of tradition rooted into the food, but with a touch of innovation. There’s always been one consistent thing, high-quality ingredients whilst ensuring each dish is crafted with love, precision and creativity.
Q To the present day and Bermondsey Street is also home to your new concept, Lolo. What do you love about this area to open here?
A In all honesty in the beginning Bermondsey
was the only area I could a ord. But as the years have gone on, my love for the area has grown. What I love most is the communitythe neighbours are amazing, my customers feel like friends and there’s a sense of being.
Q How will Lolo be di erent to what you have o ered before?
A Lolo is really the food I love to eat and cook myself, and emulates the joy that I personally experience from preparing my favourite dishes at home. Lolo in itself is a whole new all-day dining concept; the restaurant is not simply Spanish, rather we use trusted suppliers across the UK, reflecting my love for both nations alike. It’s a fresh approach and definitely a place that was missing on Bermondsey Street.
Q How are you promoting the communal aspect of dining together?
A I think dining together is a wonderful way to bring people closer, sharing a meal fosters connection and community. Lolo doesn’t feature communal or sharing tables, rather it’s the cosy setting and sense of togetherness that creates an environment that encourages guests to interact and enjoy the experience together. It’s a place for gathering all day.
Q How have you approached the menus?
A Lolo for me is a place for evolution, a working co ee, and a lovely salad. The menu is really what I like to eat.
Q Are there particular dishes on the menus that you are loving right now?
A Definitely devilled eggs - they are amazing! When you visit Lolo the devilled egg with
anchovies and sobrasada is not to be missed. Oh, and of course, the cod, which is inspired by my mum’s family recipe.
Q What can you tell us about the design of Lolo?
A Lolo has been designed by Karen Taylor from Pattern-Haus; and I’d say compared to my other sites, it’s definitely more tranquil. I’m usually told by everyone that all my other places are nice but very busy, with both people and design! So, I decided I wanted a more relaxed atmosphere, stripped back and quieter. Once the doors open I don’t think it’s going to be quiet, well I hope not, but definitely more relaxed.
Q What experience do you hope to o er with Lolo?
A I just want people to be together, gathering all day, and I hope some people can have breakfast in Lolo, lunch in José and dinner in Pizarro. That’s the dream.
LOLO, 102 Bermondsey Street, SE1 3UB josepizarro.com/venues/lolo
Tom C. Copas and Ed Hurford share the secret to growing the UK’s most delicious turkeys
In the South East, the name “Copas Traditional Turkeys” is synonymous with quality. To those outside the poultry business, the “traditional” bit of their name might be misconstrued as a nod to the more than 100 years the Copas family have been farmers in Cookham Dean, the 67 years they have been raising award-winning turkeys, or possibly the starring role turkey has played on Christmas tables in the UK since Scrooge tipped a street urchin to purchase one for Bob Cratchit. Traditional isn’t simply a marketing-clever naming choice though, it’s a description of the technique behind their results – and it’s what makes Copas Traditional Turkeys Britain’s most delicious Christmas turkey. Technically speaking, traditional turkeys are “reared to full adult maturity in a natural environment and are never given additives for growth promotion”. Copas Turkeys are dry plucked and hand finished then hung for up to 14 days to develop that unique flavour for which they have become famous. Using a selection of carefully chosen traditional breeds to give a range of
sizes, Copas Turkeys enjoy their free-range lives in a natural environment that includes cherry orchards and grassy meadows.
The technical isn’t the full story for what makes Copas turkeys very, very special. There’s a lot to be said for having been in the turkey business for nearly 70 years. Tom C. Copas, Director at Copas Traditional Turkeys and The Copas Partnership (and son of the company’s founder, Tom A. Copas), has literally grown up in the family business. “I spent a lot of time packing rosemary as a kid on the packaging line,” says Tom, laughing at the memory of an early role.
“I still don’t like rosemary today – I cook with it and use it, but I don’t like it. You couldn’t get the rosemary o your hands after packing box after box after box!”
Happily, his aversion to the herb that accompanies every Copas turkey hasn’t diminished his passion for carrying on the traditional turkey production methods his father chose and championed. Tom and his sta bring a sincere commitment to raising happy turkeys, and that happiness definitely shows in their flavour.
Ed Hurford, a member of the Copas team for more than a decade and currently Operations Director, is passionate when speaking about the importance of protecting and carrying on this timetested approach to sustainably raising the highest welfare birds. “We’ve always prided ourselves in the highest welfare and because our product is di erent, it’s stood the test of time,” Ed says. “There really is no comparison between a mainstream turkey and a traditionally produced turkey. We grow our birds to full maturity so the birds develop a fat layer.”
One of the two biggest secrets to Copas turkeys being delicious without requiring brining, excessive basting or professional culinary skills is that fat layer. The layer of fat that turkeys develop when raised to maturity contributes to a consistently robust flavour – not to mention a shorter cooking time.
The other key secret is game hanging (also known as “New York Dressing” or “Dry Aging”), essentially not cutting into the birds until they’ve hung for 14 days. This approach, which has been
used by meat producers for generations, preserves the birds while allowing the natural process that leads to the meat holding and retaining moisture. Tom says that game hanging “intensifies the flavour, improves the texture and makes the turkey more juicy and succulent – it gives you that ‘umami’ depth of flavour”. With a traditional turkey, there’s no need for Christmas Day hosts to stress about cooking. The home cook can rest easy, knowing that even if their Christmas pudding is too heavily brandied, their roast potatoes aren’t perfectly crisp or their pigs in blankets are a bit overdone, the turkey will come out perfectly with just a modest e ort. Simply season the bird and pop into a hot oven. There’s no need to baste, nor add oil or butter. Copas Traditional Turkeys even come with their very own pop-up timer to insert into the breast meat and pop up when the bird is cooked to perfection. It’s good to know that our national Christmas turkey tradition can be elevated by seeking turkeys bearing the Copas name.
copasfarmshop.co.uk
TEIJA
At Cornwall-based fashion studio Teija, oversized silk blouses evoke ideas of the sea and sails with their voluminous drop sleeves creating a dramatic silhouette when cinched in. With organza and tulle playing a key role this season, these romantic, ethereal pieces feature diamond smocked bibs with extravagant ruffled necks and sleeve detailing. teijaeilola.com
Eco-friendly pieces – from recycled metals, to ethical gemstones
By CARLY GLENDINNING
SUZANNE KALAN
CLARA CHEHAB
LE VIAN
18K yellow gold and diamond nfinite Triple Row Thick Block-Chain Bracelet, £12,615 suzannekalan.com
18K pink gold, rough aquamarine, blue tourmaline, blue sapphire, and diamond Sequence Earring, £3,055 clarachehab.com
KATKIM
18K gold and diamond Trace Oasis Ring, £5,885 katkimfinejewelry.com
PAMELA LOVE
Recycled 18K yellow gold, emerald, and pearl Helm Pendant, £3,818 pamelalove.com
YUMÉ JEWELLERY
1K yellow gold ring with white diamonds, £840 yumejewellery.com
SHAHLA KARIMI
14K yellow gold Toggle Chain, £740; charms sold separately from £600 shahlakarimi.com
Couture line 18K Honey Gold™ bracelet featuring light yellow oval VS1 diamonds and fine vanilla diamonds, £34,030 levian.com
LÖF
The Marlene Set, 18K yellow gold, and diamond, £2,805 lofjewellery.com
GROWN BRILLIANCE
14K yellow gold, pearl, and diamond Dangle Necklace, £4,577 grownbrilliance.com
The latest in luxury makeup and skincare
By CARLY GLENDINNING
CLÉ DE PEAU BEAUTÉ
Delivering a rich, velvety lip, The Precious Lipstick is a new launch from Clé de Peau Beauté. The innovative formula contains genuine diamond and 24K gold powders. £102. harrods.com
OBAGI MEDICAL
Loved by dermatologists, Obagi Medical has launched REBALANCE Skin Barrier Recovery Cream. The formulation works to rebuild the skin microbiome, replenish hydration, and repair the skin barrier. £96. healthxchange.com
Stem Cell Collagen
Facial with LED
Tapping into the trend for ‘scent scaping’ Earl of East’s new Companion Sets contain two candles designed to be burnt in di erent rooms. This helps you create ‘scent zones’ and in more open plan spaces, the di erent fragrances mingle together. I’m obsessed. £40. earlofeast.com
EDITOR’S PICK
t’s a Friday afternoon and I’m in bustling Chelsea to visit Sarah Chapman’s Skinesis Clinic. I enter through the sleek store on Pavilion Road, going upstairs to the luxurious space. Super facialist Sarah Chapman has a celebrity client list as long as my arm. Known for creating glowy skin magic, Meghan Markle, Victoria Beckham, and Naomi Watts all have her on speed dial. I’m booked in with the lovely Lauren for the Stem Cell Collagen Facial with LED. The treatment room is cosy and Lauren invites me to relax on the bed. She starts with Ultimate Cleanse (an omega-rich balm), followed by Rapid Radiance (an intensive detoxifying treatment). My skin feels clean and hydrated. Next up is a lactic peel, with steam extract to help de-clog my pores and banish dead skin. To help boost collagen, Lauren microneedles my skin, preparing it for the Platinum Pep8 Stem Cell Serum. With gardenia stem cells and hyaluronic hydrators, the formulation improves skin health and delivers a glowy complexion. Next, I relax with the 3D Moisture Infusion Mask, followed by a dreamy facial massage. Finally, Lauren puts me under an LED lamp, with blue, red, and near-infrared light. “Your skin is a little bit red, but a good red”, she says. She’s right, she’s definitely achieved the signature Sarah Chapman glow and my skin is plump and radiant for days afterwards. And the best bit? I can keep the glow going with Sarah Chapman’s new Clinic Range products at home.
SKINESIS CLINIC Chelsea, London, from £310 sarahchapman.com
Image: byroe
U BEAUTY
The Sculpt Neck & Décolleté Concentrate, £128 theubeauty.co.uk
DERMALOGICA
Phyto Nature Li ing Eye Cream, £115 dermalogica.co.uk
HYDROPEPTIDE
Nimni Face Cream, £95 hydropeptide.co.uk
ANTÉ BEAUTY
Kanyen RF Facial Device, £399 antebeauty.com
Mask, £395 thelight-salon.com
IRÄYE
Radiance Firming
Serum With Lymphactive™, £100 irayeskincare.com
SHISEIDO
Skin Filler
Serum £247 shiseido.co.uk
ANTIPODES
By CARLY GLENDINNING
PMD
Personal Microderm Elite Pro, £269 pmdbeauty.com
BYROE
Truffl e Eye Serum, £120 byroe.com
Eve Bio-Retinol Line
Reduction Serum, £40 antipodesnature.com
DERMAROLLER
Home Roller, £55 dermaroller-uk.com
INSTITUT ESTHEDERM
Pro Collagen + Serum, £74 lookfantastic.com
DO IT ALL
This spacious holdall takes you from gym to work and even converts into a backpack. There's five water resistant compartments and pockets galore. It's also made with antimicrobial materials. £349. becketlondon.com
TOTE IT
A go-anywhere tote that's spacious enough to fit your gym kit, trainers, and laptop. It has an extra detachable shoulder strap as well as hidden pockets. Simple, stylish, and versatile. £84. fabletics.co.uk
PACK IT UP
This sleek backpack is made from waterproof material, and has a handy wet kit pocket at the bottom. There's plenty of space for your laptop and trainers – taking you effortlessly from gym class to the office. £55. gymshark.com
By CARLY GLENDINNING
Carly Glendinning tries a Ride class at Psycle in Shoreditch
It's one of the hottest days of the summer when I hop on the overground to Shoreditch High Street. I'm o to Psycle's east London studio to try one of their popular 'Ride' classes. I'm already a little bit sweaty, and am wondering if I'll make it through a high-intensity spin class. I'm met at the reception by the lovely Lucie. She preorders me a protein shake from Psycle's all-vegan Energy Kitchen (the menu looks so good, I find it hard to choose), and shows me to the sleek changing area – a stylish space, equipped with everything from dry shampoo to hair straighteners. I head down to the studio with my spinning shoes and Lucie sets me up on my
bike. She explains how the seat should be positioned and how to turn up the resistance. Spin classes can feel intimidating with their dark club-like studios, but as a relative newbie, this definitely makes me feel more at ease. O ering Ride, Barre, Strength, Reformer and Yoga classes, Psycle started out as a single studio in central London, but has become so popular that it now has a further four locations in the city. My 45-minute Ride class is being led by instructor Ollie Black. On the platform at the front, he pumps out the tunes from his mixing desk, easing us in with a gentle warm up. I get into it quickly, as Ollie instructs
us to feel the beat and move in unison with the other riders in the room. He encourages us to crank up the resistance until it's almost too heavy, 'tapping back' and forth into the saddle. I'm really feeling the flow as a remix of Candi Staton's 'You Got The Love' blasts out. Ollie ups the intensity with a weights section, and then we're done. We unclip and stretch, and I get a fist bump as I leave. I feel like I've pushed myself, but it was fun. Back upstairs, I happily refuel with my protein shake, eager to book another class.
Psycle Ride classes start at £17.50 psyclelondon.com
WORTH £1,972 A six-month Transformation Body20 Membership worth £1,972
We are o ering one lucky winner the chance to win this amazing transformation membership. This membership includes 2 EMS classes per week with a personal trainer, access to a nutrition doctor and a personalised eating plan, weekly InBody assessments, and a complimentary protein shake after each class.
Body20 is revolutionising fitness with EMS technology, o ering powerful 20-minute workouts that deliver real results. Experience personalised training with cutting-edge innovation, designed to make you stronger, slimmer, fitter, and faster. Join the Body20 movement and elevate your fitness game.
One reader will win a transformation membership from Body20 worth £1972! To enter, head to absolutelymagazines.com/win/
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
• The winner must be 18 and older and live in the UK.
• There will be no cash or other alternative to the prize offered and prizes are not transferable.
• Competition closes on 30 September 2024. Entries a er this date will not be counted.
• The winner will be picked at random and notified by email within 7 days of closing.
• Should the winner not respond within 3 days, we reserve the right to pick another winner.
• Prize cannot be exchanged for anything else and is not in conjunction with any other offer.
• Those linked to any of the companies involved with the promotion cannot take part.
“Results can be felt after just 4 weeks and visibly noticeable after 6-12 weeks”
With eight years of experience in personal training and 12 years in the fitness industry, I have dedicated myself to helping my clients, then and now, to achieve whatever health and fitness goals they have set for themselves. Some simply want to make healthy lifestyle changes, lose weight or build confidence whilst others want to hone in on the specifics; for example, professional athletes choose me to help them increase strength whilst staying injury-free during competition season. As a personal trainer – and winner of Best Personal Trainer of the Year for 2023-2024 at the British Business
Awards – I stick by my clients, helping them to continue living life to the fullest whilst also guiding them towards hitting their targets and transforming their health and mindset. From Ola’s 25kg weight loss, to James’ impressive win at his first ever white collar boxing match.
Personalised plans, tailored sessions and continual support away from the gym walls is something I o er all my clients and I am sure that this has helped each and every one of them to succeed.
Some of my client’s transformations have been so impressive in fact, they’ve landed coverage in national publications including the Telegraph, Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness and the Sun. These transformations aren’t just about the aesthetics however; the overall wellbeing of my clients has also improved ten-fold. Witnessing this progress and knowing that I have played a role in their
journeys is rewarding to say the least.
As well as this, I am often quoted by a wealth of di erent UK and international publications. I am committed to staying up to speed with the latest fitness trends, techniques and research and I regularly attend workshops and training sessions to ensure I can provide the most e ective coaching methods for my clients.
Alongside the 1-2-1 coaching, I am proud of the free community class which I developed and built, o ering over 15 local people every week the chance to take part in boxing drills and HIIT exercises. Fitness should not just be confined to the gym and it certainly shouldn’t be something targeted only to the wealthy; I encourage inclusivity and want everyone to feel as though they have easy access to workouts.
07872 309456 ptwill.com
Boost your autumn wellness at David Lloyd Kingston, your ultimate oasis
As the long summer holidays draw to a close and our minds turn to a new school year, we are thrilled to announce a range of exciting new developments at David Lloyd Kingston. Perfectly timed to enhance your new autumn wellness routine, these upgrades are designed to provide members with top-tier amenities and a rejuvenated environment.
Fitness enthusiasts will be delighted by the Club’s extensive gym upgrade. With a full range of new premium equipment, the gym refurbishment also sees the introduction of a dedicated functional training area with a new state-of-the-art functional rig, additional free weights and a full smart Intuitive Strength Circuit that gives you a personalised body workout in 30 minutes or less, ensuring that every workout is e ective.
From the High Energy Studio and Mind & Body Studio to the new Cycle Studio, they have all been completely refurbished o ering a wide range of David Lloyd Club's exclusive Signature classes.
FACILITIES INCLUDE
• Refurbished indoor swimming pool: with a new Himalayan salt sauna, citrus steam room, revamped luxury spa pool and tropical feature poolside showers.
• New changing rooms to give you a more stylish place to freshen up and recharge before and after every workout.
• Kids Area: A vibrant activity room filled with kids' equipment, designed to keep the youngest members engaged and active, after school, weekends and school holidays.
Meanwhile, the revamped Clubroom and new adult working area, complete with USB and air charge facilities, o er serene spaces to relax or catch up on work.
Join us at David Lloyd Kingston this autumn and enjoy the finest in leisure and fitness. With a new upgraded gym, refurbished group exercise studios and numerous new facilities opening shortly, there’s never been a better time to be a member. Embrace the new season and make the most of every moment at your favourite Club.
2nd Floor, The Rotunda, Clarence Street, Kingston Upon Thamas KT1 1QJ davidlloyd.co.uk/Kingston
esistance training o ers a wide range of benefits for people of all ages and fitness levels. Here are eight key reasons why incorporating resistance training into your fitness routine isbeneficial.
1. INCREASES MUSCLE STRENGTH & TONE
Regular resistance training enhances muscle strength, allowing for better performance in daily activities and athletic pursuits. It also improves muscle tone and definition, contributing to a more sculpted and toned appearance.
2. ENHANCES BONE DENSITY
Resistance training stimulates bone growth and increases bone density, which is crucial in preventing osteoporosis and reducing the risk of fractures, particularly as we age.
3. BOOSTS METABOLIC RATE
More muscle mass means a higher resting metabolic rate, which helps in burning more calories even at rest. EPOC E ect: Resistance training can lead to excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC), causing your body to burn more calories after the workout.
4. IMPROVES JOINT HEALTH
Strengthening the muscles around joints provides better support and stability, which can reduce the risk of injury and alleviate symptoms of arthritis.
5. ENHANCES MENTAL HEALTH
Exercise can help reduce stress levels and improve overall mood. It has also been shown to be e ective in combating depression and anxiety by promoting the release of endorphins.
6. BOOSTS CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH
Regular strength training can improve cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure, improving blood lipid profiles, and enhancing blood flow.
7. IMPROVES FUNCTIONAL FITNESS
Resistance training enhances functional fitness, which is the ability to perform everyday activities with ease. This includes lifting, pushing, pulling, and other movements that are part of daily life.
8. SUPPORTS WEIGHT MANAGEMENT
By increasing muscle mass and boosting metabolic rate, resistance training can be an e ective part of a weight loss or maintenance program.
Eight reasons why everyone should take up resistance training
Brooklands Hotel in Weybridge, Surrey, has made a significant investment in their spa facilities; with everything from a Himalayan Salt Room, an ice fountain and experience shower to a communal steam room, Finnish and infra-red sauna, there are a wide range of luxury spa facilities you can choose between to find peace and soothe your mind and body.
De-stress in the new Himalayan Salt Room, which promotes healthier skin, good sleep and overall wellness. The room has a unique microclimate, which promotes respiratory wellness. Take a seat on one of the lounge
or hanging chairs and inhale the pristine, salt-infused air, which can alleviate allergies, clear sinuses, and improve lung function.
BSpa now features two types of communal sauna; an infra-red and Finnish sauna, both of which o er detox benefits and boost your metabolism. Adjacent to the new, larger communal steam room is an experience shower and ice fountain. Gently rubbing ice flakes over your body from the ice fountain is the ideal way to cool down and relax before moving on in your BSpa journey. Di erent water e ects such as tropical rain, mist, monsoon and cold waterfall from the experience shower combine with lighting options to deliver a multi-sensory encounter and maximise the health benefits.
You can relax, unwind and be pampered in one of their treatment rooms with a facial, massage or body wrap. Sit back in the relaxation room and outdoor hydrotherapy hot tub overlooking the Mercedes-Benz World track. Guests can complete their journey in BSpa by relaxing with the warmth of real sunlight in the Sunlight Therapy Room, which is one of the largest in the UK, and enjoy a cocktail, pretending you are on the beach in Miami.
In BSpa, the sun always shines in the sunlight therapy room, which uses full spectrum lighting and infrared heat to replicate natural sunlight with reduced level UVA and UVB rays for a safe and enjoyable experience all year round. Imagine being on the beach bathed in sunlight, the temperature a steady 28 degrees with a cloudless sky. Stretch out on your own or with a group of friends and enjoy a few drinks as well as a bite to eat from the 1907 beach bar menu. Put back a little of what life takes out and experience an indulgent escape within the life spa environment. BSpa has everything you need to unwind, relax and refresh your mind and body.
Spa experiences start from just £49 per person. For more information, call 01932 335710 or visit brooklandshotelsurrey.com
KYN continues to advance the care home industry with the opening of KYN Hurlingham
KYN, London’s unrivalled provider of later life care, has opened its second home next to the prestigious Hurlingham Club. KYN Hurlingham will provide a pioneering approach to residential, nursing, palliative, and respite care which prioritises the individual in a safe, uplifting environment
According to the KYN philosophy, the team at KYN Hurlingham will learn as much as possible about residents’ past, present and future preferences before they move in. Emphasis is placed on giving residents full autonomy, in a safe and beautiful environment, with no set schedule to adhere to, and a culture that promotes individual pursuits alongside plenty of opportunities to socialise, building both a sense of belonging and being at home. A dedicated life-enrichment team
Room – a high ceilinged dining room and bar with original intricate stonework, beams and fireplace; a library; several cosy sitting rooms; and The KYTH Spa providing Bamford products, massages, hair and nail treatments.
Beyond the physical environment at KYN Hurlingham, residents’ food and nutrition has received the same level of detailed planning and care. Working alongside expert nutritionist Eva Humphries, award-winning chef Tristan Welch has designed daily changing menus with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients and satisfying flavours tailored to residents' palates and nutritional needs.
Caroline Naidoo, Managing Director of KYN, says: “KYN has broken away from the traditional care home model, creating a genuinely uplifting and joyful place to call home. We provide a pioneering approach to care built on our values of holistic wellbeing, supported by highly experienced nurses and carers, AI innovation, modern nutrition and world class hospitality. In everything that we do, we place a high value on the autonomy of our residents and encourage the nurturing and development of meaningful relationships, in and outside of the home.”
provides a rich variety of experiences such as calligraphy, bridge, gardening and wine tasting, and a concierge will make arrangements for residents as requested with chau eured transport on hand. Every resident will be given the highest personal care according to their level of need, with dedicated nurses and carers, an in-house physiotherapist and a weekly GP visit. Furthermore, KYN Hurlingham will be the first care home to o er regular specialist medical cover via consultant geriatrician Dr Shane Roche. KYN has spent two years sympathetically restoring the notable Grade II building on Daisy Lane in the heart of Fulham, which was originally built in 1854 and served as a school and youth club. Refined interiors of casual elegance have been created by leading British designer Nina Campbell with art selected by renowned curator Adam Ellis. In all, the home o ers a choice of rooms and suites, and a range of spaces to enjoy such as The Great
To register for the Open Day on 20 September or to arrange a private appointment, call 020 3893 3734 or email kynhurlingham@kyn.co.uk. KYN.co.uk
In the celebration of the 70th anniversary for Hans J. Wegner’s sculptural CH78 Mama Bear Chair, a new upholstery and colour palette is now available. The palette is inspired by Wegner’s original patterns made for wallpaper design, sketched from watercolours in earthy, subdued hues. This special edition is available with an FSC™-certi ed oiled oak frame until January 31st, 2025. Price: £2,628 | Neck Pillow: £131
HABITAT
Habitat's new collection is all about colour. Clashing shades, bright hues and bold primary colours are everywhere in a mixture of looks that's designed to make some serious statements. Along with midcentury shapes and graphic patterns, these new looks are bound to spark joy. habitat.co.uk
By PENDLE HARTE
Contrasting paint colours is a great way to to create drama and atmosphere. Here Benjamin Moore's Golden Retriever and Bella Blue work together in a surprising way. Painting ceilings and cornicing in the same shade as walls creates a striking, saturated look that's very contemporary. The brand's new shades are deep, inky and intriguing.
benjaminmoorepaint.co.uk
BIRDIE FORTESCUE
Birdie Fortescue has teamed up with Kipper Club founder Sarah Corbett-Winder for a capsule collection focusing on bold colours and stripes. This is the Table Family, £695, and the Check Mate wool rug, £1,450. birdiefortescue.co.uk
With a bold silhouette, the Bridgerton is a modern take on the classic chesterfi eld design. The high angled arms give the sofa an inviting, cosseting feel, with intricate button detailing across the back and the arms for an elegant look. Finished with piping detail and luxurious bandage stitching on the arms, it comes in a choice of walnut or weathered oak shades. sofology.co.uk
CURATED LIVING
Tablecloth Deoli Sage, £120 curatedliving.co.uk
MOLLY MAHON
Table Cloth Frill Burgundy Rose, £95 mollymahon.com
HK LIVING
SHADES OF COOL
Morning Glory napkins set of two, £25 shadesofcoollondon.com
WALTON & CO
Ravenna Napkin set of 4, £17.49 waltonshop.co.uk
WEAVER GREEN
Antibes Sky Blue Table Cloth, £50 weavergreen.com
HK Living's traditional lanterns are made in the last traditional cra s workshop in the mountains of Taiwan. One worker creates the framework using local Makino bamboo, another applies the fabric, giving the frame extra strength, and finally a third cra sman folds the fabric around the frame, bringing the piece together. hkliving.com
Ruggable has launched a collection with Malene Barnett, who is known for creating designs based on a modern black experience rooted in the cultural traditions and practices of art in the African diaspora. The artisanal designs feature abstract patterns in rich hues of blue, green, and ochre. ruggable.co.uk
“The circle represents unity and sends a positive emotional message”
CarlHansen & Son is expanding the Sideways series by Danish designer Rikke Frost with a new lounge chair and co ee table
Carl Hansen & Son’s collaboration with Rikke Frost started in 2020 with the asymmetrical Sideways Sofa, followed by the Petal Lamp and the Sideways Footstool. Now, the Sideways Series includes a lounge chair and a co ee table that stand out for their classic materials shaped into modern, rounded designs, making them suitable for both private and public use.
The Sideways Lounge Chair is an elegant combination of solid wood, upholstery and natural paper cord. The seat and back are padded so firmly that the upholstery remains smooth and crease-free. This is a considerable challenge, which only the best and most experienced upholsterers can master. The back of the chair is upholstered in fabric and paper cord – a design feature that gives the lounge chair a sense of lightness while also linking it to the Sideways Sofa.
The round Sideways Co ee Table has a wooden frame and a reversible tabletop with
two di erent surfaces in either oak or walnut on one side and laminate on the other. There is also a version in Italian marble. The tabletop rests on brass fittings that contrast beautifully with the wooden frame. Rikke Frost has designed the Sideways Co ee Table with a shelf, which allows you to put your mobile, iPad or remote aside, and, instead, enjoy the present and being o ine.
Rikke Frost comments on the design of the Sideways Series:
“I’ve given a lot of thought to the design of the Sideways Series, where I have taken the circle as my starting point. The circle represents unity and sends a positive emotional message of harmony and balance. Circles convey a sense of freedom, which perfectly matches the feel I wanted from the Sideways Series. It has been very important to me that the design enables movement and di erent sitting positions.”
CARL HANSEN & SØN
Explore these novelties in the Carl Hansen & Søn Flagship Store London 48A Pimlico Road, SW1W 8LP 020 77308454
@carlhansenandson_london carlhansen.com
Limited to editions of 280, our newly-commissioned Art Deco posters feature glamorous holiday destinations around the world, ski resorts in the European Alps, and the world’s greatest historic automobiles. Over 100 designs to choose from, all printed on 100% cotton fine art paper, measuring 97 x 65 cms. Priced at £420 each (inc. UK sales tax). Private commissions are also welcome.
@pullmaneditionsposters
All images and text copyright © Pullman Editions 2024 Our central London gallery
+44 (0)20 7730 0547 info@pullmaneditions.com
AS TERM BEGINS, WHY NOT INVEST IN A NEW DESK?
1 5
Cra ed from natural rattan and wood, the Frances desk has two cupboards and a middle shelf for storage. Hand woven natural rattan inserts on the cupboard doors coordinate with solid wood handle and legs. £169.99 daals.co.uk
The Audacious desk has a timeless design with its curved, organic silhouette. Sliding fabric tambour doors add a touch of modern nostalgia, creating a seamless transition between past and present. £1,299 black-by-design.co.uk 1 3 4 5 2 3 2 4
This timber desk features floating drawers suspended by brass-effect cylinders. Designed to look like four sleek drawers furnished with four powder-coated metal knobs, the floating drawers are in fact two deep drawers. £825 sixtheresidence.co.uk
Inspired by timeless Danish designs, the fashionable and functional Jullien desk features two drawers for keeping your workspace organised, and will blend into any theme or style seamlessly. £1,995 sweetpeaandwillow.com
The Yves desk is an elegant and compact writing desk, with so ly sculpted legs and a tiered top. It has an inlaid dark brown leather writing surface, two drawers and a cable access hole to each side. £3,550 pinchdesign.com
CLICK STYLE
Tortoiseshell decorative glass vase, £69.50 clickstyle.co.uk
LAURA ASHLEY
Confetti Easy Fit Pendant, £60 next.co.uk
SPICER AND WOOD
Multicoloured Wine Glass, £16 spicerandwood.co.uk
MAISON CHERIE
Bee wine glass olive green, £8 maisoncherie.shop
EDITOR’S PICK
DAR LIGHTING
Leandra Table Lamp Tortoiseshell Glass, £118.80 darlighting.co.uk
glass accessories to treasure
By PENDLE HARTE
MICUCCI INTERIORS
Bicos wine glass, £23 micucci.store
DIFFERENT KIND
Blantyre upcycled glass storage jars with mahogany lid, £50.95 thediff erentkind.com
TALKING TABLES
Glass Candle Holder, £8 talkingtables.co.uk
COCO HENRY
Marnie Carafe and Glass in Teal, £78 cocoandhenry.co.uk
MARIO LUCA GIUSTI
Dolce Vita Water Glass, £24 barnbury.com
NORFOLK HYGGE
Glass candle holder, £13 norfolkhygge.co.uk
CASA BY JJ
Classic Amber Glass
Set of 6, £97 casabyjj.com
Carpe Diem Beds' award-winning new releases continue the brand's narrative of luxury, comfort, and innovation
“The new Iconic Collection transcends the ordinary, where luxury meets functionality,” says Helen RK Jensen, VP Brand, Carpe Diem Beds
Carpe Diem Beds' new Iconic Collection encapsulates an array of bespoke o erings that redefine the essence of luxury, comfort and innovation. The collection has already won three awards and is available across an increasing number of dealers in the UK. In pursuit of creating beds that transcend mere functionality, Carpe Diem Beds embodies a philosophy where style and comfort unite. The company has made it their mission to make sleep a priority by transforming bedrooms into the heart of the home. Carpe Diem Beds has long been synonymous with creating havens of tranquillity. Their upcoming release is no exception, as they are committed to making their beds as beautiful to look at as to sleep in. With bespoke craftsmanship, Carpe Diem Beds elevates bedrooms into sanctuaries, providing the perfect place to unwind. Every bed component is selected for its unique qualities; bed frames are crafted from solid, slowgrowing Nordic pine, and fabrics are meticulously chosen from renowned brands. Each bed, crafted in Sweden, is a masterpiece of exceptional artistry and is signed by the bedmaker.
Imagine the serene and picturesque archipelago on the West Coast of Sweden. With the rhythmic whisper of the waves, the crisp sea breeze, and the wild heather growing among the rocks. This tranquil landscape was the inspiration for Börje Thuleskär, the founder of Carpe Diem Beds. On a balmy summer day wandering the Island of Stora Kornö, Börje spread out his picnic blanket on a meadow of heather to lay down and rest. As he closed his eyes, he experienced a floating sensation and a feeling of weightlessness. Since that day, that weightless feel is found in the comfort of every bed from Carpe Diem Beds. And now,
the floating sensation is a part of the design. The Iconic Collection beds contain the patented Contour Pocket system, providing unparalleled support and that weightless feel deeply rooted in the brand's DNA. Each bed is meticulously crafted, reflecting Carpe Diem Beds' dedication to quality and design.
The Iconic Collection includes four bed models, each named after islands in the archipelago on the West Coast of Sweden. These bespoke beds can be customised from 44 fabrics in the classic and exclusive fabric collection.
Kungsö is a continental bed that combines innovation with an elegant and modern design. It is not just furniture; it is a focal point that elevates the entire room's atmosphere. The design is based on the centred leg piece, creating a floating visual e ect that is both striking and captivating, making it a truly exceptional piece of design.
Hällsö Walnut consists of a handcrafted walnut frame, where the natural variations of the wood make each bed unique. The wooden frame's timeless, classic charm elevates the bedroom's design, emphasising the tailored quality of Carpe Diem Beds. The floating style of the centred leg piece further accentuates the walnut frame.
Hällsö Upholstery is a frame bed with an elegant, fabric-padded frame and the innovative floating design that defines this unique range. The frame seamlessly complements modern interior styles. Vindö adjustable bed is the existing and most exclusive bed in The Iconic Collection. Vindö o ers a luxurious, floating design synonymous with the rest of the collection. This adjustable bed allows you to control your body's position and indulge in relaxing massages, making it a one-of-a-kind experience. With the added convenience of a light feature, Vindö is the epitome of luxury and comfort, setting a new standard for adjustable beds.
Carpe Diem Beds is set to launch new fabrics as well as the brand's first collaboration with Danish textile brand Kvadrat. The new fabrics are inspired by the calming colours found in Lysekil's archipelago and will feature 22 exclusive designs. Altogether, Carpe Diem Beds now o ers 44 bespoke fabrics from Designers Guild, Romo Group, and Kvadrat, enabling customers to personalise their beds further. The new additions elevate Carpe Diem Beds' existing fabric brand mix and allow the brand to cater to a broader design audience who are looking for that Scandinavian feel.
With The Iconic Collection, Carpe Diem Beds invites you to embrace a floating sensation that transports you to the tranquil shores of the west coast of Sweden. Envision the serenity, feel the calm, and let every night become an unwinding retreat. This collection is more than just beds; it's a masterpiece that invites you to seize the day, starting with a night of unparalleled sleep. carpediembeds.co.uk
How Colours of Arley is bringing their signature stripes to a variety of projects
By EVE HERBERT
Colours of Arley and journalist and designer Jess Alavi-Ellis first teamed up in 2023 following their shared love for colour, vintage charm and sustainable materials to create the hugely successful Vintage Drop. The collection gave time-worn furniture a new lease of, stripey, life. The debut ‘Drop’ was in high demand with the first pieces selling within minutes of going live. Returning to vintage markets, antique sellers and trawling auctions, they sourced five pieces to restore and expertly reupholster in Colours of Arley signature stripes. The second installment, Vintage Drop 2.0, launched with a set of bar stools, a play chair, a sofa, a pet bed and an armchair. Not only does the collection give new life to preloved furniture, but the pieces are all upholstered in Colours of Arley signature recycled fabrics, which are made from bottles that have been diverted from landfill.
Bringing the South of France to East London, Colours of Arley teamed up with French design studio Mattina Moderna, to create a capsule collection of beautiful striped ‘La Petite Boîte’ lamps.The home of Mattina Moderna designer and co-founder, Clémentine Poncin, was the source of inspiration for this joint venture which celebrates the best of
the French Riviera. Reflecting the tones of the sand, sun and sea, as well as olive trees, lemon groves and the iconic, Villa Ephrussi, the chosen stripes of the lamps are reminiscent of Clementine’s treasured sundrenched coast. Mattina Moderna was founded in 2020 by a mother-daughter duo who weave together art and design into their creations. Clémentine Says: “Mattina Moderna is a slow design studio, and for us, that means creating a limited series of products that are made with heart, extreme care and are hand assembled in Nice by my mother. We are passionate about creating products that are timeless and humble, rooted in tradition and have a shared past. Collaborating with Colours of Arley felt very natural and the perfect fit for us. From the custom o ering, to limited series, love for colour combinations, and of course the story behind the stripes, our collection of lamps share a story of Nice.” Colours of Arley's Louisa Tratalos explains: “The cubic shape of ‘La Petite Boîte’ lamp lends itself beautifully to our signature stripes and each colour combination tells a story of the Cote D’Azur. Timeless and e ortless, the lamps will add a playful element to any room.”
Combining character and sustainability, the fabric is made from 100% recycled plastic bottles and is made in the family factory in Cheshire.
coloursofarley.com
Our newly redesigned luxaflex showroom, showcases the latest innovations in custom made blinds including automation, sustainability, and smart home integration. Sitting alongside our bespoke luxury curtain and roman blind service containing an inspiring collection of designer fabrics and trimmings.
With over 25 years experience in window styling we offer a full bespoke service with every aspect of your project overseen by our team of experts.
By PENDLE HARTE
Mykonos is just one of several stops at well-chosen destinations aboard the Regent
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A taste for luxury cruising 108
The irresistible appeal of a fast car 114
All aboard the Regent Seven Seas Grandeur for a multi-destination cruise
By SANDY CADIZ-SMITH
Imagine the dream luxury cruise. Think sumptuous accommodation, impeccable service, stylish bars and superb restaurants. Picture fabulous shows, live music and specially curated shore excursions to stunning and historic destinations. And it’s allinclusive. This is not a fantasy, it’s the incomparable experience awaiting onboard the Regent Seven Seas Grandeur. Grand by name and nature, the ship o ers the ultimate in indulgence and relaxation. We’re greeted with champagne and smiles in the dazzling reception area with its sweeping staircase and sparkling chandelier inspired by tennis bracelets. There’s even a stunning Faberge Egg on display. We head upstairs taking in the elegant decor and plush carpets underfoot to La Veranda. where bu et breakfasts and lunches are served. But this is no ordinary bu et, more like banqueting bu et-style with a luscious range of hot and cold dishes using every luxury ingredient imaginable. Like seafood, sushi, delectable grills and even caviar and Champagne
for breakfast one day - irresistible.
When Cruise Director David, who soon becomes our cruise’s soundtrack and information source, announces staterooms are ready, we head with anticipation to our deluxe veranda suite. It’s a spacious haven of elegance, with plush furnishings, luxurious linens and a large private balcony. There’s a vast walk-in wardrobe and impressive marble and stone bathroom complete with double vanities, a large shower and a bathtub.
Grandeur carries a maximum of 746 guests and was launched in 2023. She’s gleaming and modern and home to three lounges with bars, seven places to eat, including three speciality restaurants, a magnificent theatre, elegant library packed with reading material, a co ee shop, a sports deck, a spa and the pool deck with its own bar. So many beautiful spaces to enjoy. The ship never seems that busy, we don’t have to queue or ever wait for anything and we can always find a space poolside or at our favourite bar. When night falls, our experience is elevated to a di erent plane. The lounges tempt us
with their exotic cocktails delivered with flair by expert mixologists and live music, pre and post-dinner. There’s karaoke and dancing and the fabulous theatre stages tribute shows, comedians and musicals. But dinner is undoubtedly the main event. The spectacular main dining room Compass Rose is designed like a glittering enchanted forest and serves a range of classic gourmet dishes. The speciality restaurants include Chartreuse for French cuisine, Prime 7 Steakhouse for premium beef and seafood, and Pacific Rim for a taste of Asia. La Veranda transforms into Sette Mari at night, with its
delectable Italian menu. Exquisite food to cater to every palate is at our fingertips. All the time. We revel in every pleasurable second spent on Grandeur, but the days ashore are also gorgeous. And a selection of carefully curated shore excursions are included in the price. We start in Athens and our journey takes us through Greece (including magical Mykonos, charming Corfu and sensational Santorini), Croatia, Montenegro and Turkey, finishing in Istanbul. We explore beautiful towns, enjoy chilled beach time, swim in the clearest of balmy blue sea, shop for mementos, discover historic sites, and sample the local food. It’s a hedonistic adventure through some of the most beautiful and historic places on earth. From that first sip of Champagne to the last dazzling sunset viewed from our balcony, life on Grandeur takes our breath away. It’s the stu that dreams are made of.
The 12-day Ancient Lands & Historic Sites cruise on Seven Seas Grandeur embarks in Athens and disembarks in Istanbul. The cruise calls at Mykonos, Gythion, Katakolon, Corfu, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Santorini, Ephesus (Kusadasi), Kavala/Philippi and Istanbul. Regent offers what they call The Most Inclusive Luxury Experience. This includes:
•Unlimited beverages, fine wines, cra cocktails and speciality coffees
• Unlimited shore excursions
• All dining, including speciality restaurants
• Customised in-suite mini bar replenished daily with guest preferences
• Unlimited WiFi
• Pre-paid gratuities
• Unlimited valet laundry service
• 24-hour in-suite dining rssc.com
SEQUENCE
A unique intervention of afternoon tea to indulge in our elegant drawing room overlooking a quaint courtyard garden.
Sun Siyam Olhuvelhi Maldives, located in the South Male Atoll, just a 45 minute speedboat ride from the capital, o ers picturesque white sand beaches and calm azure waters brimming with exotic marine life. Spanning across two idyllic islands – Main and Dream – this is the ultimate getaway for families and couples alike with a wealth of activities to keep guests of all ages occupied, such as two spas including one which is overwater, to windsurfing and kayaking on the lagoon.
A Maldivian-style resort meets modern influence, with a range of accommodation on o er, from traditional suites to stylish, contemporary villas, and using natural materials such as bamboo and stone and vibrant, tropical colours. Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s elegant beach villas open to a spacious beachfront terrace where you can
Beauty and bliss are in abundance at Sun Siyam Olhuvelhi Maldives
enjoy a cocktail whilst unwinding to the sounds of the ocean. Traditional Water Villas rest only a few footsteps away from the Indian Ocean’s warm waters, and for those looking for an intimate experience, expansive Beach and Water Villas featuring a serene private pool are available. With three pools to choose from across the islands, including an adults only pool, the resort never feels too crowded wherever you are. For those seeking adventure, this all begins on the lagoon. Try your hand at kayaking, sailing or windsurfing thanks to the highly-skilled pros on the island. Swim amongst your underwater friends, including technicolour fish, manta rays or even a sea turtle, and venture to the nearby Vaavu Atoll to dive deep in search of the shipwreck. Back on shore, there’s plenty to keep you occupied away from your sunlounger, from tennis to beach volleyball, and the resort’s kids’ club, Maakanaa Kidz, hosts exciting games, craft making and beach
fun with a twist of Maldivian experiences. There are six restaurants and four bars o ering a range of cuisine from authentic Indian dishes to freshly grilled seafood and steaks served at the openair grill. Overwater Lagoon Bar o ers lively Maldivian entertainment in the evening, or choose to unwind at Dhoni Bar, which boasts some of the best sunset views on the island. If you’re searching for a private dining experience, dine on the floating platform under the stars. Speak to one of Trailfinders' travel consultants to book your next escape to the Maldives. Trailfinders can assist with the entire holiday including flights, hotels and transfers, as well as stopover stays. The team at Trailfinders is on hand 365/24/7 until you’re safely home and your money is completely financially secure in the Trailfinders trust account.
020 7368 1506 / trailfinders.com
The lightest and most powerful series-production McLaren, the new V8-engined, rear-wheel drive 750S, is unashamedly a supercar for the purist, as James Fuschillo discovers
We all need a hero in our lives right now, and the super variety needs the right vehicle to go about their work –and the McLaren 750S would be that car. Laying eyes on it for the first time, the sleek and aerodynamic look really does scream Batmobile, especially if it came in all black, matte. And considering McLaren will customise the colour to whatever your heart desires, consider that a given.
Designed and engineered following meticulous analysis of the renowned McLaren 720S, the new 750S combines advances in weight-saving, powertrain performance, aerodynamics and dynamic excellence to elevate a benchmark driving experience to new heights. Around 30 per cent of 750S components are either new or changed
in order to deliver these improvements, and they are noticeable, from the way the car drives, to dealing with problems that suburban life may throw at you. Settling into the 750S, it’s probably the closest thing you can get on the ground that resembles being a fighter jet pilot. These cars are built for speed, but for me the level of comfort and security blew me away. Speed, however, is not forgotten. The engineering developments advance the renowned daily usability of the 720S, and yet the power and performance of the 750S is more full-blooded and undiminished than ever. Outright acceleration is phenomenal, with 0-100km/h (62mph) achieved in 2.8 seconds.
The interior is very minimalistic, but at the same time high tech. The 750S fuses innovative technology with exquisite materials, but most importantly is even more driver-focused in design. At the heart
of the driver experience are new displays, both for information and instruments, with the instrument display fitted to – and moving with – the steering column. This driver-centric display is mounted in a binnacle that has the controls to select Powertrain and Handling modes located on either side, meaning the driver can move e ortlessly between Comfort, Sport and Track Active Dynamic settings while keeping their hands on the wheel and a complete focus on the road ahead.
This also is a supercar for the petrolheads out there. The engine is located to the rear, but thanks to a fancy design feature, you can see inside the car into the engine bay. Come the night and the engine bay is illuminated red, which really does give the car the x factor. This is a car where you can not only admire its design, but also the mechanics that go into making it such a joy to drive. The exhaust system is another change
from the 720S. That had two circular exhausts at the back next to each tail light, whereas in the 750S it has been replaced by a much bigger, central exhaust with a completely di erent design, including a really sexy touch that assists with braking. Driver Downforce (active wing partially deployed, dependent on speed) is engaged when the Aero button is pushed in the cabin, increasing downforce levels during highspeed cornering. The design and positioning of the single, central exhaust pipe meant that the new active rear wing is positioned 60mm higher, its revised static position bringing additional powertrain cooling by drawing hot air out of the engine bay. It was a joy to take the 750S onto motorways and clear A roads, but I was also keen to put it through its paces through a suburban set up. A really good function on the car is McLaren’s Proactive Chassis Control linked-hydraulic suspension, a real game changer in a suburban area, enabling you to lift the car’s nose in four seconds at the touch of a button. The new-generation system delivers even higher levels of suspension performance and is integral to the outstanding dynamic abilities of the 750S. Comfort in design, but also in practice. The suspension springs are softer at the front
ENGINE CONFIGURATION
M840T engine, 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, 3,994cc
POWER
PS (bhp/kW) @ rpm 750 (740/552) @ 7,500rpm
TORQUE
Nm (lb ) @ rpm 800 (590) @ 5,500rpm
TRANSMISSION
7 Speed SSG. Comfort, Sport and Track modes
and sti er at the rear than in the 720S, which together with reconfiguration of both the passive and active elements of the bespoke valve stack and a new approach to tuning the suspension – adjusting the accumulators in the struts, which is used for the first time in 750S – benefits ride comfort, roll control, steering feedback and cornering balance.
The way the 750S handles is a dream, and also the acceleration o the mark. You can feel the raw power, it’s so responsive. When you are going up in speed so quickly you also need to have handling matching that and I thought it was a really well balanced car. The extraordinary levels of exhilaration, precision, agility, feel and feedback that the 750S delivers are immediately apparent to the driver, even at lower speeds – and its low weight is a key factor in its dynamic performance. At just 1,389kg (DIN), it weighs 30kg less than a 720S – a clear example of McLaren’s dedication to lightweight engineering.
With the new 750S, McLaren defines a new benchmark for supercar performance and driver exhilaration.
london.mclaren.com/en
STEERING
Electro-hydraulic; power-assisted
CHASSIS
Carbon fibre Monocage II monocoque with aluminium front and rear crash structures
SUSPENSION
Independent adaptive dampers, dual aluminium wishbones, hydraulically linked PCC III system. Comfort, Sport and Track modes
BRAKES
Carbon Ceramic Discs (390mm front; 380mm rear); Aluminium Calipers (6-piston front; 4-piston rear)
(180)
(105)
(UK/USA
(15.8/19)
Owning a luxurious holiday home on the glorious Kent coast is an a ordable reality, thanks to one of the county's most highly regarded leisure home parks. Seaview Holiday Park near Whitstable is opening the doors to a privileged holiday lifestyle for couples and families wanting to make the most of their hard-earned down time.
The holiday homes provide an opportunity for enjoying restful get-aways in exclusive and carefully maintained surroundings. The holiday homes are built in Britain to the highest quality standards, and provide all home-from-home comforts including top-end furnishings and fittings, full central heating, double glazing and plenty of space for everyone. There's even exterior decking to enjoy al fresco dining
or simply relaxing with family or friends.
Seaview Holiday Park is beautifully situated right on the beach, just a short drive from the popular seaside resort of Whitstable with its many must-visit independent shops, lively arts scene, historic streets and buildings, and of course the town's long association with oysters and delicious seafood.
There's plenty at Seaview to keep all ages entertained. The park features a heated outdoor leisure pool, perfect for swimming or just relaxing around in the sunshine. The family-friendly restaurant and bar is a popular meeting venue where professional acts provide entertainment in the holiday season, and for youngsters there's also the chance to burn o energy in the active play areas.
But if you can tear yourself away from the park, you'll find there's no lack of fascinating things to do and places to visit nearby.
For example, watersports enthusiasts can try their hand at sailing, windsurfing, or
paddleboarding with equipment hire available locally – or explore the miles of footpaths surrounding the park, taking in gorgeous coastal and countryside panoramas.
Festivals and other events frequently take place in surrounding towns and villages, and stunning beaches abound along the coast. Or a little further afield are the Kent Downs, the medieval city of Canterbury, and Margate with its magical mix of traditional seaside fun and arts attractions such as the Turner Contemporary Gallery.
A range of di erent high-specification holiday homes is available, and the cost of ownership is much lower than buying a similar-size holiday cottage. What's more, there will be no expensive repairs or garden maintenance to worry about. Just pack your bags, drive up to your holiday home, and start relaxing from the moment you arrive
The retreat will be there for holiday visits throughout the seasons, enabling owners to appreciate the changing colours of the surrounding countryside..
Seaview Holiday Park, owned by awardwinning national leisure group Park Holidays UK, is always pleased to welcome those keen to learn more about holiday home ownership, and expert advisors will show visitors around home models currently available. parkholidays.com
Inside this section
NEWS 120
SPOTLIGHT ON SPORT 124
LESSONS IN COMMUNITY 160
THE POWER OF CONFIDENCE 164
ASK THE EXPERTS 167 UNDERGROUND WITH ANTHEA TURNER 170 THE BEST NEW BOOKS 176
FRANCIS HOLLAND PREP
Francis Holland Preparatory School provides a warm and inspiring environment in which girls can learn and thrive. It is a unique community that fosters a care and awareness of the needs of others and a desire to make a difference, both in the school and in the wider world. The school is committed to instilling happiness, confidence and lifelong curiosity.
Repton student Eva Okaro, 17, is off to Paris 2024 Olympic Games with Team GB. She is the fi rst swimmer from the Derbyshire school to compete in the Olympics – also the fi rst to compete while still at the school. Eva secured her position in the squad a er competing at the Aquatics GB Championships, winning Silver in both the 50m and 100m Freestyle.
“Eva Okaro will be the fi rst Repton student to compete in the Olympic Games while still at the school”
Tonbridge student Ollie Sykes has been named the Wisden Schools Cricketer of the Year. A 2023 leaver, he received the iconic accolade at a ceremony at Lord’s in April, becoming the fi rst Tonbridgian to earn this title. Ollie distinguished himself by scoring 935 runs and took 30 wickets for Tonbridge in the 2023 season.
Around the world in just 48 hours. That was the timeframe Year 7 boys from Ludgrove and girls from Downe House had to learn lines and stage direction and bring Around the World in 80 Days to stage. It was a triumph and more joint projects are planned as part of the schools’ new academic and pastoral relationship.
As part of its Futures Programme, West Sussex prep Windlesham House hosted Royal Naval Divers from Delta Diving Unit 2. The divers detailed their work disposing of historic ordnance, defusing explosive devices, clearing sea mines and combatting terrorists, as well as special ops work. Pupils had the opportunity to try out diving kit, robotics equipment and a drone.
“If a free society cannot help the many who are poor, it cannot save the few who are rich”
JOHN F. KENNEDY
Cobham Hall co-curricular programmes have seen its pupils opt to plant 500 trees, staff food banks and try dissection and songwriting – with karate, escape rooms, Thai cookery and a colour run along the way. Service, environmentalism, adventure and leadership – four of Cobham’s Round Square IDEALS – are central to the programmes.
King’s Ely student Thomas Strudwick has been named ‘Intermediate Class’ winner of this year’s Young Organists’ Competition. A former Ely Cathedral Chorister, Thomas joined King’s Ely Prep as a Year 4 pupil and also plays piano and cello. Praised by the competition judges for his skill and composure, he only started playing the organ in October 2022.
Dr Clare Ives becomes Head of The Leys in September 2025. Currently Senior Deputy at Sevenoaks, she will be the fi rst female Head at the Cambridge school. “As a bursary recipient, and fi rst-generation university student, I am passionate about the transformative power of great education,” she says.
Francis Holland Preparatory School opens in Chelsea from September 2024. Known as Francis Holland Prep, the new school will inhabit an impressive Victorian Grade II listed building that includes the old Chelsea Library. Facilities include a School Hall, a specialist science lab, an art room and an extensive outdoor play area.
Children from Manchester, Wales and London celebrated Earth Day at 10 Downing Street in April, participating in sessions led by ZSL (Zoological Society of London). Lessons at 10 is an initiative set up by the PM’s wife Akshata Murty. Children honed their bug ID skills and joined workshops about wildlife conservation.
Jonny Gilbert becomes Headteacher of The Roche School in Wandsworth in September. He joined the school as Deputy Head 10 years ago and will continue the work of Vania Adams, who is retiring. Gilbert will continue to champion the Spanish Bilingual stream introduced two years ago.
“I have
a responsibility to show kids not just how to be like a soccer player, but how to be like a man”
PELÉ
“THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN INVOLVEMENT AND COMMITMENT IS LIKE HAM AND EGGS. THE CHICKEN IS INVOLVED; THE PIG IS COMMITTED”
A report from the charity Cultural Learning Alliance (CLA) highlights the huge ‘enrichment gap’ in arts education. It points to a decline of 42% in arts GCSE entries since 2010. Hours teaching arts subjects have decreased by over a fi h (21%). CLA is calling for a shi , so that all UK schools deliver an expressive and arts-rich education.
Bromley High GDST has introduced a Middle School for Year 5-8 to support the secondary transition. This is to counteract the decreased self-esteem that is o en experienced by girls moving up. Its new personalised approach aims to alleviate anxiety and provide each student with a clear flight path for her learning and personal development.
A er battling 500 teams over two intense rounds, a Frensham Heights Sixth Form team made it to the fi nals of the 2024 CyberCenturion competition and earned third place. Sarah Cull, Head of Computer Science, says: “The competition has helped the students develop technical skills that they can use in the future and has inspired them to consider cybersecurity as a potential career choice”.
Moulsford Prep in Oxfordshire is making a shi to coeducation and will welcome girls into year 3 in 2026. Its pre-school is already co-ed. Chair of Governors Edward Boddington says: “Societal changes form the background to this decision, with families – including many Moulsford families – increasingly seeking to educate their children together and in a coeducational environment”.
Eastbourne College pupil Alex Bailey, 18, received an award for scoring 100% in a financial services exam typically taken by adults. Alex received the Fundamentals of Financial Services Outstanding Achievement Award from the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investments. He now hopes to study Economics at Bath.
Eminent plant biologist Professor Sarah Gurr returned to King’s School, Canterbury, where she was a pupil in the late 1970s, to open its new science centre. This adds six state-of-theart laboratories and a science auditorium. It will also host community science events.
Pupils from Dame Bradbury’s Junior in Saffron Walden, part of The Stephen Perse Foundation, represented Uttlesford at Essex Primary Cross-Country Championships. Standout performances included a Year 3 First from solo runner Ruby. The Year 5 Girls team also secured a County Team title.
“TO HAVE SOMETHING WHICH ONE PARTICULARLY WANTS TO DO IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN ANYTHING ELSE. IT IS EVEN MORE IMPORTANT THAN SUCCEEDING” GLENDA JACKSON
Sport is great for health, but how does its competitive edge feed into a positive culture – helping young people to be part of something bigger and also achieve personal goals? Schools give us their take on its role in student success
At Oakham, sport is a fundamental part of school life. But Director of Sport Dr Iain Simpson says there’s something much more. “It provides a buzz to the school campus on match days when hundreds of pupils take to the playing fields, the pitches, the courts and the pool to compete.”
With around 50 inter-house sporting competitions each year, students are encouraged to take part and support their peers. All abilities get the chance to play against other schools – it’s as busy for the D team as their A team counterparts –all celebrated in the Oakhamian annual magazine via a season report. Oakham has many pupils playing for academies or on sporting pathways. “We formally support and recognise these achievements at our annual Sports Colours Presentation ceremony. When our 1st XV boys’ rugby team won the National Schools Cup at Twickenham for the third time in 2023, 850 pupils, parents and sta travelled to London to watch them compete,” says Iain Simpson. The school was also out in force when the U16 girls’ hockey team carried o silver in the Tier 1 National Cup Competition in March.
Winning teams become role models, as do elite athletes at national and international level. “The most powerful role models are people like themselves,” says Iain Simpson. With that in mind, Oakham also celebrates alumni who have gone on to great things, inviting them back to give talks or run coaching sessions. And this has a massive impact. “For example, when England rugby player Jack Van Poortvliet returned to visit his old House and talk to pupils in Years 7 and 8, it was hugely motivational.”
Not everything ends in triumph – and Iain Simpson says it’s far better to have competitions that are closely fought, sometimes lost, when it comes to life lessons. “We reframe the idea of failing
and view it as simply not achieving everything that we set out to do,” he says. “It is really important that we challenge our pupils so that they encounter a mixture of success and failure and are equipped to react to both in a way that is reflective, positive and purposeful.”
This translates back into the classroom.
“As part of Oakham School’s Connected Curriculum, we overtly teach the skills, behaviours and habits that young people learn through sport,” he says.
“The child who learns to set targets and work hard towards challenges in their sporting environment, and to problem solve and overcome those challenges, is then equipped to do the same thing in the classroom and beyond.”
At Reed’s in Surrey, there’s a long tradition of success in sport –with recent wins in areas such as hockey, tennis, ski racing, athletics and golf. But Director of Sport Andy Watts says that wins aren’t the only measure of success – and sometimes they aren’t the best measure. “Setting up fixtures that include challenge is vital, as it builds resilience, helps with problem solving and encourages di erent ways to overcome adversity.”
The school o ers team sports from A-F level and beyond, and with an expectation that all pupils are involved on Saturdays in First and Second Forms (Years 7 and 8). Coaching and facilities, and matching players to teams with comparable depth, support success and build skills. “Involvement in sport only enhances what happens in the classroom. Developing time management skills, working collaboratively with others and stepping out of your comfort zone can all contribute to academic progress,” he says.
Reed’s has highly ambitious pupils pursuing high-level sport. They may start their day in the gym, fitting in one-to-one technical sessions in their free periods and then committing evenings and weekends to training and competing “This level of dedication is one of the most impressive aspects of the modern pupil athlete,” says Andy Watts. But it isn’t just pupils pursuing elite sports pathways who commit time to improve – the school has noticed increasing
demand for its Strength & Conditioning programme across the cohort.
Success is recognised weekly via assemblies. “Captains read out all results: the wins, draws and losses. It is important to recognise all competition and sometimes the best received reports are losses where teams have given their all. This public recognition is important,” says Andy Watt. Reed’s encourages young people to aspire to sports leadership roles, too. “The skill of coaches and teachers is to try and provide opportunity for success, but also learning how to deal with losing, coping with adversity and overcoming any fear of failure,” he says.
“Communication of selection is vital face-to-face, as indeed is rewarding e ort, not just the outcome.” He adds that it’s important not to shy away from the e ort involved. “Success isn’t just about winning, as nice as that is, it is about the hard work behind the scenes.”
At Tonbridge, sport is part of day-to-day life. “Sport is integral to our school’s ethos, with all students engaging in activities at least three times weekly,” says Director of Sport Chris Morgan. “We believe it fosters character development, o ering equal opportunities for personal growth regardless of skill level or team a liation.”
National and international achievements significantly influence Tonbridge students’ enthusiasm about sport. All the better when you have alumni to get behind. Current OTs shining bright include Ben Earl in rugby and Zak Crawley in cricket – both now England regulars. “They serve as inspiring role models, driving increased interest and participation,” adds Chris Morgan. Those on a potential elite sports pathway receive tailored support through the school’s mentorship programme. This includes guidance from performance coaches and sta members who have navigated similar elite challenges. “This holistic approach prepares students to aim high while equipping them with strategies to manage setbacks.”
Winners and losers both deserve positive feedback, and the focus here is on building a supportive culture. “Coaches, supported by teachers, provide context and understanding, emphasising the broader educational value of sports,” says Chris Morgan. The Tonbridge team know that the lessons learnt in sport translate into the classroom and help students confront fear of failure. “These sports experiences equip them with
essential life skills, fostering adaptability and perseverance in facing challenges.”
Not every child can be (or aspires to be) top in games. “We promote a culture that values participation and emphasises the broader benefits of sports,” says Chris Morgan. There are some 20 on o er here – all the mainstream choices plus more o beat options such as fives, ultimate frisbee and rackets. In the ‘major’ sports, the school regularly fields 25 rugby teams, 14 hockey teams, 17 football teams and 17 cricket sides on weekend fixtures.
Tonbridge’s ultimate aim is to engender a love of sport that lasts into adult life. By that measure, they are definitely winners. “The OT cricket side has won the Cricketer Cup more than any other school, the OT Golf side has won the prestigious Halford Hewitt the most times and the OT football club has continued to grow in recent years and now, on a weekly basis, fields two sides,” says Chris Morgan.
“It is important that pupils encounter a mixture of success and failure and react in a way that is positive”
While there has always been a tradition at independent schools of playing to win, at Malvern College there is recognition that there’s a much broader purpose and meaning to success. Silverware still counts, but the primary intention of the school, alongside the fun and the health benefits of sport, is to develop personal qualities. Training is designed to develop collaborative skills and encourage students to compete but still show empathy for others.
The school believes that playing sport, whether at elite or recreational level, is a means of developing both talent and character. Challenging games teach transferable skills and wider intelligence. Malvern College is, of course, proud of those who shine at elite level.
Upper Sixth pupil Noah Goryn is part of British Fencing’s athlete development programme. He has balanced studying for his IB Diploma while winning gold at the British Youth Championships. The College sees the benefits beyond his sporting achievements in this opportunity to travel, developing his cultural intelligence and language skills. He’s also managed nutrition, sleep and wellbeing practices that are hugely beneficial to preparing for exams.
Last year, Fergus Morris and Will Clayton donned the striped shirts of the
U18 Barbarians Rugby Club. The sports team at Malvern College say they reap the benefits of these school successes because when a pupil trains with a specialist coach or team, they bring these skills back with them. Also, the skills are hugely transferable in learning and life situations.
Daisy Tuthill, who plays hockey for Wales U18, models the skills of organisation, selfregulation and discipline on a daily basis as a College Prefect. She was nominated by her boarding house because she’s admired as a role model. And when Old Malvernian Rose Harvey made headline news as ‘The Covid Lawyer turned Olympic Runner’ she demonstrated to students at the school how the skills and qualities that bring success in life and work sit hand-in-hand with the skills and qualities needed by an elite athlete.
Sport is integral at Wycli e College – from prep to the top of the Senior school – says Director of Sport Ben Taylor. “Pupils have a huge variety of opportunities to play competitively, but also engage in a wide variety of co-curricular sporting activities that cater for our culturally diverse community.”
He believes there has been a shift in the way young people view elite sport, perhaps due to social media. “Reels of goals, tries and celebrations are a great motivator, but can also provide pupils with an unrealistic perception of what sport might be like.” Wycli e’s approach helps to counteract that medals and glory perspective. “The highlight of the school sporting calendar is our ‘Legacy Sports Day’ held before our Athletics Sports Day,” says Ben Taylor. “No one can play a sport that they have competed for school in before and must try something new. This creates a brilliant level playing field.” With all the traditional sports on
tap, Wycli e has also diversified to ensure everyone finds something they enjoy.
There are many pupils at the school who are on elite pathways, supported through its scholarship programme. Wraparound care includes a strength and conditioning coach, physio and sports therapists. There’s also nutrition advice and access to sports psychologists. “Current professional players from di erent sports come in throughout the year to talk to pupils about their journey and give the pupils real world advice,” adds Ben Taylor.
Inevitably, elite pathway can bring setbacks. Then the team help students to either progress or use this setback as a learning opportunity. Disappointment doesn’t just happen at the elite end – so there’s an important balance to be struck. “We encourage all pupils to look deeper into their losses and use them as a development tool. There is no straight line to success and if we can help pupils to understand this then the benefits can be seen in all areas of their sporting and academic lives.”
Sport fosters a sense of community at Kew House. Celebrating wins, supporting teams and individuals, and recognising achievements all promote a positive culture around sport – also reinforcing ideas around teamwork, dedication and perseverance. But the school believes it’s also vital to teach children that failure is a natural part of both sport and life. The emphasis here is on e ort rather than simply outcome – teachers and coaches provide constructive feedback to help young people cope with setbacks and build resilience. Their support is designed to help young people to reflect, set realistic goals and focus on continuous improvement. This fits one of the mantras of Kew House: ‘What can I do di erently next time?’. Not all children are naturally gifted at sport, and there’s emphasis on inclusivity and variety – helping children discover sports and activities they enjoy and may excel in. That’s why the school maintains a compulsory curriculum time for girls and boys to be playing together in Core PE lessons. The school adds it’s important that young people learn to appreciate playing sport together throughout Years 7 to 11.
The sports team know that providing a variety of choices of sport, emphasising skills development over competition, and giving encouragement to less able or willing students, works. It’s about reinforcing the value of participation and personal improvement rather than just winning. All abilities get the opportunity to participate in interschool fixtures against carefully matched teams throughout the school year to highlight the fun and camaraderie of a competitive sporting environment.
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For Kew House students on an elite sports pathway, there’s the Top Performing Athlete Program (TPAP), with guidance on goal setting, time management and coping with setbacks such as injury or de-selection. It includes advice around physical development – including the importance of continuing education, maintaining wellbeing and building life skills to prepare for alternative pathways and a future beyond sports. The results for Kew House students have ranged from an international wake-boarding champion to girls and boys winning places in football academies across west London. Rowing is also developing into a key strength.
The team say that sport is a vibrant element of the school community, but also helps to shape young people’s attitudes, skills and values by enabling them to to promote their personal development and ability to thrive in the future.
At Concord College sport is used to broaden the international cohort’s experience and present alternative challenges. It is also a key tool to help young people manage their physical and mental health. The focus is giving each student the opportunity to play sports they enjoy and at a level they choose. It’s also a key area of House competitions, so a vehicle for friendly rivalry and relationship building.
Every Wednesday there are varied games sessions for Years 9 to 11. All students have a ‘twilight’ programme available in their 4pm activity time, while boarders attend one ‘sports prep’ a week where they choose their own activity. Wins and achievements are celebrated school-wide – and via social media as many parents are international.
Concord College recently made it to the Society of Heads U18 National Cup Final for football for the first time – taking many supporters along to cheer on the team.
With such a diverse community, the sports team at Concord College also see diverse attitudes to sporting fails. They place emphasis on personal growth and persistence. This is all supported by the adventurous outdoor programme, which uses the fantastic local landscape to expose young people to carefully supported challenges.
The repeated practice needed to master a new sport or face an unfamiliar challenge such as abseiling is a great resource to draw on in class.
Concord College’s highly successful DofE programme dovetails with sport and outdoor education – last year four students achieved gold and one became a DofE Ambassador. Such challenges help students deal with stress, learn teamwork and find out more about their own capabilities. Reflection and goal setting are also carried back to class. Sta and pastoral teams make sure they celebrate determination and ability to get back up and try again alongside every success.
Some students join Concord in Year 9 unable to swim or ride a bike and the progress to National Lifeguard Qualification or mountain biking can be a milestone achievement. Others join with high sports aspirations and, while there are no sports scholarships here, the elite programme provides sta mentoring and specialist support. There have been high achievers in many fields, from cricket to fencing, Formula 4 and golf. Last year, Concord came top in the county for basketball and fielded successful badminton and table tennis teams. And a Year 13 runner scooped a Welsh national fell running championship and now has an Oxford Blue in cross country. Another Year 12 student has just brought home a silver medal for Singapore in a major men’s windsurfing competition.
“Developing time management and stepping out of your comfort zone contribute to academic progress”
How Brighton College Prep Kensington uses its urban location to best advantage
Brighton College Prep Kensington is a leading preparatory school for boys and girls aged two to 13 in the heart of London that builds upon the award-winning Brighton College’s curriculum and ethos.
In an environment of academic excellence and opportunities beyond the classroom, the school celebrates the uniqueness of every child, fostering kindness, curiosity and confidence as they grow. The school’s unique location, in a row of Grade-II-Listed Victorian houses just a short walk from South Kensington station, gives children unparalleled access to experience London as their classroom. The school provides an education modelled on the successful core curriculum of Brighton College –including the SUPER-curriculum,
Story of Our Land, and the Home Economics and Lifetime Health (HEALTH) programme. The Pelican Pathways programme encourages students to excel academically, but also learn skills like teamwork and kindness, and actively participate in their school community and beyond.
With the Natural History Museum, the V&A, Hyde Park and the Science Museum on the doorstep, plus many more awe-inspiring London landmarks (174 museums and art galleries in Kensington alone), pupils have access to the best educational and cultural highlights as part of daily school life and allows the school to enjoy London as an extension of the classroom, bringing learning to life through unique, enriching experiences.
The school’s exceptional facilities include a two-acre secret garden, a state-of-the-art MakerSpace, Science
laboratories, dedicated Music space, and access to the top-class sports facilities at Imperial College London. The garden is unique in this part of London, and enables all pupils to be outside daily, come rain or shine, while also using the spaces for outdoor learning - waterproofs and wellington boots included!
“THE SCHOOL ENJOYS LONDON AS AN EXTENSION OF THE CLASSROOM, BRINGING LEARNING TO LIFE ”
The school also boasts quirks such as a “Mini-MBA” programme for years 7 and 8, chess as a required subject, and ‘Sport for all’ programs. For those interested in the arts, pupils from Nursery to Year 8 benefit from Music and Drama teaching in twiceweekly lessons, and opportunities for private tuition with specialists from the Royal College of Music.
Headmistress Lois Ga ney, previously Deputy Head at Brighton College Prep Singapore, says: ‘I believe education needs to be exciting and dynamic to prepare pupils for the modern world. As teachers we should inspire children to explore, embrace opportunities and challenges.’
For 2025 applicants, the deadline to apply is Thursday, 31st October. Open Mornings for interested parents are available on 25th September (PreNursery and Nursery), 26 September (Reception), and 12th October (All Years of Entry). All enquiries and tour requests can be sent to admissions@ brightoncollegeprepkensington.co.uk.
Yorkshire independent school Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate (QE) are celebrating after receiving a prestigious award from Artsmark, who are accredited by Arts Council England. Artsmark o er the only creative quality standard for schools and, to achieve the award, QE had to develop their arts and cultural provision to embed a broad and ambitious curriculum.
On receiving the award, Helen Stephenson, Head of Creative Arts at Queen Ethelburga’s said: “We’re extremely proud of achieving our Gold Artsmark Award. We are committed to delivering a high-quality arts and cultural education and are looking forward to growing our provision alongside Artsmark.”
The school o ers an ambitious provision of over 30 courses across art and design, music, drama and dance with numerous opportunities throughout the year to perform and compete in individual and team
disciplines. With an impressive 39% of their students choosing to pursue Creative Arts subjects for GCSE, BTEC, or A-level in 202324, it is perhaps no surprise that QE regularly achieves recognition in national competitions. In 2023 alone, students achieved a win, runner up, and a highly commended in the ISA Arts Young Musician Competition, two finalist positions in the ISA Musical Theatre Competition, a win in the ISA Shakespeare Monologue Competition, two finalists in the ISA Musical Theatre Competition, and a win in the ISA Band Competition.
QE’s creative arts provision starts in prep school with a variety of art, craft and design lessons and opportunities to compete nationally. Students can choose a range of KS4 and KS5 options including 3D Design, Creative Digital Media Production, Fashion & Textiles, Art & Design Practice, and Photography. There are weekly extra-curricular activities including the Arts Award, Junior Art Club, Sketchbook Skills, Drawing Skills, and QE’s
Queen’s Academy for Creative Arts. QE students enjoy success in competitions, with recent wins in the ISA National Art competition for KS5 3d Design (2023), KS4 Sketchbook (2023), and KS5 Photography (2022 and 2023). QE pupils also achieved regional success in 2023 with ISA Northern Arts wins for KS5 2D Art, KS4 3D Design, KS4 Photography, and KS5 Textiles.
QE’s Student Art Council grew to 35 ambassadors in 2023-24 aged 11-18 years, who lead creative arts events. Examples of their cross-curricular events include a ‘Day of the Dead’ mask making and a ‘Lunar New Year’ competition with Modern Foreign Languages. Throughout the school, students are encouraged to use creative practices in all subjects; for example, Year 9 business students used Adobe Creative Suite software to create and market their own brand.
To find out more about QE’s art provision, visit qe.org, email admissions@qe.org,
Frensham Heights is a distinctive day and boarding school, priding itself on being refreshingly di erent since 1925.
Nestled on 125 acres in the beautiful Surrey Hills, Frensham Heights o ers a coeducational day and boarding experience. An ISI inspection in 2022 rated the school as ‘Excellent’ in students’ academic progress and personal development. They achieve exceptional academic standards as part of a much richer experience, through a broad curriculum and the equality given to all subjects. Stunning A level results this year in subjects across the board reflect this commitment to an educational approach that fosters curiosity and a love of learning. With a more informal setting and smaller classes, the teachers and students really get to know each other. Teachers don’t have to spend time telling students to check their ties or pull up their socks. Instead, they have conversations
and build relationships based on genuine, mutual respect and interest. Relationships that spark learning. Academically, Frensham is one of the most successful progressive schools in the UK. This year’s A-Level results, an amazing 48% A*-A, 75% A*-B and 90% A*-C, are a testament to the students’ incredible resilience, hard work and passion.
Alongside the rich curriculum run endless opportunities for wider experiences outside the classroom. From specialist days, which take students o timetable to fully immerse in a subject, to longer term projects like the agro-ecological kitchen garden and the Year 8 self-governing village. The extracurricular o ering is immense with clubs running at lunchtime and after school.
“It’s a school that really broadens horizons by allowing each child to be themself, to thrive outside a box. For those who would naturally be happy in a conventional box, it
encourages them to try things they might not have considered or had the courage to try before.” - Frensham parent
Boarding options are full, weekly, flexi 3 day and occasional. All three boarding houses are coeducational - boys and girls have separate dormitories with shared social areas. Evening activities range from swimming to cooking plus bowling and cinema trips. There is a London bus for weekly boarders and for full boarders, weekends follow the flow and pattern that is family life with big outings on Saturdays and lazy days on Sundays.
EXPERIENCE FRENSHAM at the Open Event on Saturday 21st September, or at one of their weekday open mornings through the Autumn Term. There are also Discovery Sessions, which are an ideal way for your child to get a taste of Frensham by joining an activity: go to frensham.org/visit-us
At
Kensington Wade, lessons are in Mandarin and English – no prior language skills required
When Nara first enrolled at Kensington Wade in Hammersmith, west London, she didn’t speak a word of Mandarin. Now, aged 10, she is confidently talking about the characteristics of the Yangtze River in the language to her geography teacher. At Kensington Wade they follow a traditional UK prep school curriculum, but with a twist. Pupils achieve fluency in Mandarin because they learn all their subjects in Mandarin and English. For now, the school is an outlier in Western Europe. But in the US, there are some 400 immersive Mandarin-English schools, with the number steadily growing.
It’s not hard to see why this bilingual model is chosen by parents, many of whom don’t speak Mandarin themselves. China is the world’s second largest economy and, from a future career perspective, pupils will be at a distinct advantage by having not just the ability to communicate in Mandarin, but a good understanding of China’s culture. Mandarin is a tricky language to learn – the younger children start, the easier it is. “Children are incredibly adept at learning languages, especially at a young age. In an immersive environment, they pick up the language naturally through daily interactions and activities, much like they learned their first language,” says Deputy Head of School and Head of Chinese Programme Jing Wang.
Being bilingual boosts brain capacity in areas such as creative thinking, problemsolving, multi-tasking and pattern
“Mandarin has particular advantages in encouraging a deeper understanding of maths”
recognition. Children who learn multiple languages have been proven to be better at information retention, comprehension tests and critical analysis. But learning Mandarin has particular advantages on top of this in encouraging a deeper understanding of maths. In English, we need to learn the word ‘eleven’ and then understand what this means. In Mandarin, however, the word ‘eleven’ can be translated as ‘10 + 1’ and this is the same for other numbers. Learning place value in maths comes naturally to those who are either native or second language speakers.
Learning Mandarin is also said to boost visual skills because we develop a better memory of pictures by learning the image of each letter. Written Mandarin develops shape recognition and spatial awareness, as children need to make sure that each character is the same size no matter how many strokes are required. Another learning boost is in listening skills and the ability to pick up nuance because in Mandarin the same words can have di erent tones – similar to pitches in music. For instance, depending on how you say it, ‘Ma’ means mum, numb, horse or scold.
“Many parents think pupils have to speak Mandarin to come here, but that’s absolutely not the case,” says Headmaster Huw May. “I don’t think many people know the full advantages of being bilingual.”
Jing Wang agrees. “Our pupils gain so many advantages from learning in more than one language in terms of their cognitive flexibility, their linguistic skills and their cultural fluency,” she says.
Approaching its 25th anniversary, Coram Shakespeare Schools Foundation o ers inspiring drama opportunities to open eyes and minds
Back in 2000, eight schools in Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire took to the stage of the Torch Theatre for two nights to perform abridged plays by Shakespeare to a full house. It had all started with Shakespeare: The Animated Tales, a series conceived by then head of animation at S4C Chris Grace. The series was hugely popular and lives on today in schools. A festival seemed a next logical step. It let young people do what Shakespeare intended and turn stories on the page into their own unique productions.
Fast forward to 2024 and Shakespeare Schools Festival, now Coram Shakespeare Schools Foundation (SSF), delivers the largest youth drama festival in the world.
An estimated 300,000 plus young people have taken part over the years. It is open to all backgrounds and settings – junior, senior, independent, SEND schools and pupil referral units. The success of the venture has been driven from the start by young people’s vitality – and the inspiring teachers (some 11,000 to date) who join the journey with them and become teacher-directors.
Shakespeare may not have seemed the most obvious choice for such a diverse age group, but children rise to the challenge with verve and extraordinary originality. Recently, a Portsmouth school delivered a Romeo & Juliet based around the deep rivalry between Portsmouth and Southampton football clubs – even wearing kits given by the teams. At a school in Birmingham, pupils chose to stage Othello highlighting the gang violence and gun and
knife crime the children had experienced first-hand in their neighbourhood. In describing why they chose this take, a participant said: “It shows the world what is happening to us”.
Once registered for the festival, schools get access to a wealth of resources and teachers get CPD training to help them facilitate the drama and bring it to life on the stage. It’s usually a four-to-six-month journey, culminating in the performances. Typically, there will be three or four schools taking to the stage with separate productions in a local professional theatre.
The mix of schools brings very di erent stagings each night, and the spirit of camaraderie between the children adds to the magic. It can be particularly moving to watch pupils from special educational needs schools participate alongside peers
from primaries and secondaries. There have been dramas incorporating BSL or interpreted via light, sound or movement. At a recent staging at the Rose Theatre in Kingston, each SEND student on the stage had an adult supervisor with them and it became a mesmeric ensemble retelling of The Tempest. Last year, SSF asked a teacher from a SEND school what participating meant to pupils. She said simply: “It gives voice to the voiceless”.
The impact of the festival is monitored closely by SSF, and it works hard to widen access in lots of ways. There’s an active Youth Board to keep young people front and centre of its work, and standalone workshops are o ered to schools – including ‘Play in a Day’. The Shakespeare Schools International Film Festival was introduced during Covid and has gone from strength
“The success has been driven from the start by young people’s vitality –and the teachers who join the journey with them”
to strength in the UK and internationally. Here, children bring plays to life via short films, and learn acting, directing and storyboarding skills along the way. There’s also an access to higher education project in collaboration with Magdalen College Oxford. This year, 15 Year 10 students
from Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire enjoyed a three-day residential there. They attended Shakespeare lectures and explored the library where a rare Fourth Folio is housed, finishing their stay by staging their Shakespeare plays at the college’s auditorium.
Coram knows Shakespeare is a great vehicle for growing young people’s talents. Demystifying the Bard and delivering your own drama interpretation to an audience becomes a very big deal. It builds a great set of skills – it’s such a powerful thing to tell a story your way. Last year, over a fifth of participants spoke English as an additional language, so overcoming that additional hurdle is a confidence builder with a profound impact. Then, too, there are the parents who go to a professional theatre to watch their child, and keep on returning to the same theatre because they had a great time. The team at SSF are mindful of the value of this – both in supporting the many local theatres around the UK they work with, and in widening access to theatre itself – an art form that still struggles to shake o its elitist label.
Above all, Coram Shakespeare Schools Foundation aims to open young people’s eyes and minds to possibilities – perhaps even to future careers in the creative sector. It has anecdotes about how performing in the festival has made a di erence to individual lives and careers but, for its 25th anniversary year, there will be a call-out to the 300,000+ Festival alumni to ask what Shakespeare did for them. Getting those stories back will be a reminder that (with apologies to Hamlet purists) for some young people, the play’s the thing that changes everything.
Children should have an eye exam before term begins, say experts at The Eye Place
With 50% of the population expected to be myopic by 2050, myopia (or shortsightedness) is an increasing concern.
How can it can be managed to give children clearer futures?
Q So, what exactly is myopia?
A Short-sightedness is the common name for myopia, an eye condition where far away objects appear blurry and out of focus, while close objects remain clear.
Q How do you know if your child is myopic?
A The first signs that your child has myopia might be them sitting close to the TV or computer, or holding their mobile phone or tablet close to their face. They might also complain of headaches or rub their eyes a lot. Often though, there are no obvious signs at first, which is why it’s important to take your child for regular eye examinations.Children are also more likely to have myopia if one or both their parents wear glasses.
Q What happens if myopia is left unmanaged?
A As your child grows, myopia can increase and if left uncorrected the e ects will become more obvious. They might struggle to see the white board at school, and playing sports will become harder. In the
long term, children with myopia are at an increased risk of developing eye conditions like cataracts and glaucoma in adulthood.
Q How can myopia be managed?
A Fortunately, myopia can normally be corrected using glasses or contact lenses, so children can see clearly. Recent technological advances mean specially designed spectacle lenses called Miyosmart can now slow down the progression of myopia, while also correcting vision. This means that your child may not need to have stronger prescriptions as often as they grow older.It is also recommended to spend more time outdoors, take regular breaks from close up work and reduce time
“The sooner that treatment commences, the better the results are likely to be”
spent looking closely at screens. Taking your children for a regular eye exam can help diagnose myopia early, as the sooner that treatment commences, the better the results are likely to be. Miyosmart is available for children between 6-18 years old, and is available at The Eye Place practices across the United Kingdom.
Q Why Miyosmart lenses?
A Miyosmart are multi award-winning lenses that are clinically proven to slow down myopia. As well as slowing down the progression of myopia, Miyosmart also benefits from having 100% UV protection, scratch resistance and is made from a light and thin material. Miyosmart is available in clear lenses, sunglasses and a photochromic option that goes clear indoors and tinted outdoors.
Q Is Miyosmart suitable for my child?
A At The Eye Place we are here to help slow down the progression in children now to give them a clearer future. Before
prescribing your child with Miyosmart we will conduct a full eye examination and make an assessment as to the best course of action. If Miyosmart is appropriate, practice sta will help you and your child to choose the perfect frame. Once your child has their new glasses, we will o er a regular schedule of check-ups and eye exams, to ensure your child has the correct treatment as they grow.
The Eye Place is owned and operated by Alex Kemp, a third-generation optometrist who has spent the last two decades building an enviable reputation founded on using state of the art and cutting-edge technology. Located in 11 sites across London and the UK, Alex has created a high standard of practice, with a team of highly experienced and knowledgeable Optometrists, Dispensing Opticians and Advisors making it one of the most comprehensive opticians in the world.
the-eye-place.co.uk
Malvern St James Girls’ School is a special place, as highlighted by two di erent perspectives about the benefits of all-girls’ education
Head of Malvern St James Girls' School
Q How long have you been Head of Malvern St James?
A I started as Head on 1 January 2024, and have absolutely loved every minute of it. Allgirls’ schools are such fantastic communities, and Malvern is one of the most beautiful places in the world to live, so how could I NOT be attracted to working at MSJ?!
Q What immediately struck you the first time you visited the school?
A The warmth of welcome from everyone – sta and pupils alike – was immediately apparent. There is a tremendous sense of kindness that permeates the whole school.
Q Have you had much experience of working in all-girls’ schools?
A My ten happiest years were as Director of Music and Housemaster at an all-girls’ school, but I am predicting that my time at MSJ will become my new happiest years! I have worked as both teacher and Head at
single boys’, single girls’ and co-educational schools, and by far my most rewarding experience has been in all-girls’ settings.
Q At Malvern St James, what opportunities do your girls have that they may not get in a mixed school?
A Malvern St James strives to allow each and every girl to thrive, to discover talents and skills and, most importantly, to be herself in a safe and happy environment. So many of our pupils opt for STEM A-levels and, thereafter, degrees – statistically, far more than in co-educational settings. I rejoice to see so many of our girls really commit themselves to the wide range of sports we o er, not at all self-conscious as I have observed as both a Head and inspector in coeducational schools. Opportunities to assume leadership roles commence from Year 5, and are carefully developed throughout the senior school, to help our girls grow into highly confident and competent young women, prepared for life after school.
Q Is there more peer support in a single sex school?
A Good peer support at any good school should be the norm. Clearly, there are di erences between co-educational and all-girls’ schools. At the latter, there is never any awkwardness, embarrassment or selfconsciousness in the conversations that our girls may wish to have with each other. As we have a strict policy of no mobile phones in school, it is wonderfully liberating not to be distracted by the all-too frequent unkindness that social media platforms can bring about. Through the peer support system in place via our Form structure, the girls experience empathy and encouragement that build confidence on so many levels.
Head Girl at Malvern St James Girls' School
Q Are you aware of the di erences of being at an all-girls’ school?
A Having experienced both environments, I would say yes. Being at an all-girls’ school, we are more confident, largely because we are more comfortable. This makes learning a lot easier and a lot more fun for the students and sta alike, as there is equal engagement from everyone. Here, my gender does not limit what subjects I should be good at or what sports I should enjoy.
Q What opportunities have you had that you may not have had elsewhere?
A The opportunity to meet people from all over the world. From connecting with current students, to past ones through the Old Girls’ Association, I’ve started building my global network from such a young age. It’s very exciting and also comforting to think that no matter where life takes me there will almost always be an MSJ girl who can guide me.
Q As a Head Girl, do you take pride in helping the younger girls at the school blossom?
A Definitely. Even before becoming Head Girl I always enjoyed interacting with the younger girls and helping them in any way possible, so I highly appreciate the fact that it’s now part of my role. I was once that younger girl, so I know how impactful it can be to have someone slightly older who has been through similar experiences that is always there to help.
Q How would you sum up the environment at Malvern St James?
A Malvern St James is a community before it is anything else. Boarding or day, local or international, student or sta ; we are all connected and working together to make the MSJ experience the best possible for everyone.
malvernstjames.co.uk
learnt
An Independent School Like No Other –The Award-winning St Dunstan’s College prepares pupils for the world of tomorrow
St Dunstan’s College, south London, has championed a progressive approach to education for over a century, with the opening vision of the school in 1888 being to provide a curriculum ‘in advance of the present time.’
The school’s first Head, Charles Maddock Stuart, was a pioneer in heuristic education, stating that it is not so much what a child knows that is important but more how (he) comes to know it – a revolutionary concept for the time. St Dunstan’s was one of the first schools in the country to have science and technology laboratories built to service a curriculum with significant time devoted to hands-on scientific and practical experiments.
Today, St Dunstan’s modern senior school curriculum builds on the legacy of its founding heads. Students enter the school embarking on a Renaissance education, studying a deliberately wide range of academic subjects while proactively developing skills and thinking that will support them for life, and committing to a variety of co-curricular activities in a programme that is embedded into the timetable and structured around the College’s values. The school believes that this classically liberal education promotes a
lifetime of inquisitive independence, allowing young people to approach new and challenging concepts with courage and conviction and to be best equipped for an uncertain future.
‘Our world is changing at breakneck speed. A truly globalised future dominated by AI and biotechnology will require di erent skills and attributes from the young people we are educating today,’ explains Head of St Dunstan’s Education Group, Nick Hewlett.
‘Our social values are more precious to us than ever before, and so are they under threat, as we inhabit a society where the art of rhetoric has diminished and the polarised, entrenched view has consumed us, amplified as it is through the platform of globalised cyber-space. We have a duty to respond to this in the curriculum we o er.’
In recent years, the school has won praise around the world for its groundbreaking Stuart Curriculum, which looks at relationships, skills for the future and critical thinking.
“ST DUNSTAN’S WAS NAMED INDEPENDENT SENIOR SCHOOL OF THE YEAR”
Stuart lessons have tackled the rise of toxic masculinity and individuals such as Andrew Tate. Speaking about the lessons, Nick Hewlett added: ‘As well as having the confidence to react to specific examples such as Andrew Tate, it is important that our teaching is predominantly proactive and enables students to independently understand when views are harmful and dangerous, and how they can protect themselves from being exposed and influenced by them online.’
St Dunstan’s bold and brave approach to education has led to the school winning many accolades. Earlier this year, St Dunstan’s was named ‘Most Progressive School in south-east England’ at the Private Education Awards 2024 and was awarded the best Diversity and Inclusion in Sport at the Education Choices Awards 2024, following the school’s groundbreaking partnership with Chelsea FC which was announced earlier this year.
In 2022, St Dunstan’s was also named Independent Senior School of the Year at the Tes Schools Awards in London, which are known as the Oscars of education.
Following the pandemic, St Dunstan’s marked the opening of the most significant developments to the school grounds since 1888. A new Junior School, STEM Centre for Excellence and Innovation and Sixth Form
Centre was opened. The College’s forwardthinking approach is now matched by modern, bright, and inspirational facilities. Further planned works over the next few years include an outside area for pupils, named the Plaza, and a developed Sports and Leisure Centre.
Last month, St Dunstan’s celebrated its best-ever A Level results on record. 88% of all grades were A*-B with an outstanding 61% being A*-A. Following the historic results, 97% of the cohort will be heading to their chosen destination, which includes 100% success for students holding an o er for
Oxbridge, medicine, music conservatoires, art foundation or drama school.
Find out more about St Dunstan’s College at their upcoming open day on Saturday 21 September 2024, or their Sixth Form Open Evening on Wednesday 2 October 2024. From September to November, the school hosts open events including morning tours. St Dunstan’s o ers a variety of scholarships and bursaries for students joining at 11+ and 16+.
stdunstans.org.uk
Millfield athletes bring home seven Olympic medals
Millfield athletes have had the school’s most successful Olympics ever at the 2024 Paris Games, bringing home seven medals.
Gold medals went to Team GB’s James Guy, Matthew Richards and Kieran Bird in the men’s 4x200m freestyle swimming relay, and Rory Gibbs in the men’s eight rowing event. Helen Glover brought home a silver in the women’s fours rowing, Matthew Richards complemented his gold with a silver in the men’s 200m freestyle whilst Annie Campbell-Orde achieved bronze at her debut Olympic Games in the women’s eight rowing.
Swimmers Max McCusker (Ireland), Mia Phiri (Zambia) and Emma Harvey (Bermuda) were joined by Millfield Performance coach Ryan Livingstone (GB) in Paris, and triathlete Erica Hawley (Bermuda) all competed in their first Olympic Games.
In the upcoming Paralympics, swimmer Suzanna Hext, cyclist Daphne Schrager and Millfield Fencing coach Glen Golding have been selected by Great Britain. The seven selected for swimming is the most swimmers Millfield have ever had at the Games.
Millfield’s 14 selections are made up of eleven Old Millfieldians, two sta and one Millfield Performance Squad member. Millfield’s Performance Squad consists of 12 British swimmers who have spent the year training at Millfield ahead of the Paris Olympics, under the guidance of Millfield Performance and Team GB coach Ryan Livingstone.
Millfield’s Olympic legacy consists of 82 Olympians, with a Millfield athlete being present at every Olympic Games since 1956. Millfield’s Olympians have won 26 medals in that time, including 11 golds, seven silvers and eight bronzes.
millfieldschool.com
“We have a carefully constructed approach for a child's development”
How the world of play inspires learning at Berkhamsted Pre-Prep and Prep
t Berkhamsted Pre-Prep and Prep, pupils are encouraged to explore the world around them and develop holistically through play. Studies by the University of Cambridge have shown that the more children play, the more likely they are to develop into selfregulating, emotionally intelligent adults.
To give pupils the best start in life, pupils from age three engage in indoor and outdoor play. As part of the school’s drive to develop risk-taking adults who are unafraid to make mistakes, pupils play outside no matter the weather. “If it’s raining,” says Head of Stepping Stones Debbie Cooper, “pupils put on a coat and still head out.”
From nursery, symbolic role play is used to develop pupils’ understanding of the world around them. Stepping Stones recently enjoyed a visit from firemen and afterwards took turns playing as firemen themselves.
During World Book Day, pupils across the school dressed as their favourite animals and collectively imagined how their character may act and move. Through these opportunities to imitate, pupils make sense of the world.
But play doesn’t just happen in class. To develop their independence, pupils are given the freedom to play by themselves. A walled garden is a magical setting on the Pre-Prep campus that gives pupils the freedom to play in groups, explore the age-appropriate climbing equipment, and take independent risks. At the Prep, the outdoor area has been recently re-landscaped to provide more dedicated outdoor play areas for the children, and a greater sense of space on the campus. While pupils are always supervised, they don’t often know it, encouraging them to express themselves and socialise with peers without constant intervention from teachers.
Following the Forest School Curriculum, play often happens in the woodlands surrounding the countryside campus. By taking play outdoors, pupils across all age groups have
an increased ability to explore the world around them and take risks through climbing, adventuring, and following the dedicated Gru alo trail that leads through the woods.
Parents are involved in encouraging play, from dedicated parent talks that discuss the benefits of playing with children at home to inviting parents on site to engage in play with the children. Every Christmas, Pre-Prep parents are invited to join their children as they complete a ‘stickman walk’ through the woods, while Prep parents enjoy talks on the benefits of playing with their children, family games nights are especially recommended!
A highlight of many pupils’ time at school has been Berkhamsted Pre-Prep and Prep’s ‘International Day of Play’ in which usual lessons are switched for games and play. At the Pre-Prep, pupils engaged in outdoor play, strategic card games, puppet shows, and makebelieve. At the Prep, pupils enjoyed moulding shapes in a sandbox and a range of outdoor games from skipping to marbles, to tiddlywinks.
“For every moment that on the surface looks like play,” concludes Debbie, “we have a carefully constructed approach for the development of each individual child.”
To learn more about Berkhamsted PrePrep and Prep, join them at their Open Events on 4-5 October; berkhamsted.com
Your child’s primary years are fundamental in shaping not just what they become, but who they become.
King Alfred School has over 120 years of experience of designing joyful learning experiences which give each child the space they need to discover and develop their passions, to embrace challenge and reflect on their achievements.
Our creative curriculum inspires children because they do it
through experience, through play, through genuine interest; we nurture an eagerness to know more and encourage greater depth of understanding. We have high expectations for our children and give them the freedom to explore and grow - all within a structure which lets them develop at the pace which is right for them. The results speak for themselves; happy, confident children who love to learn.
Find out more about the school, or book to attend an open event at www.kingalfred.org.uk
Francis Holland’s Junior School at Sloane Square has relocated to an iconic Victorian Grade II listed building, just o the King’s Road.
This prime property has more than doubled the space previously occupied by the Junior School, and enabled them to extend the award-winning FHS education to over 100 more girls. By becoming two form entry, with 280 pupils by September 2026, the school will be able to further strengthen our educational o ering, both academically and pastorally, and o er greater opportunities for music, sport, drama, art and other co-curricular activities. Planning for class sizes of 20 maintains the level of individual attention for each child and the nurturing and friendly environment for which Francis Holland is renowned.
“Enhancing our educational provision for our current pupils has been a key aim of the Francis Holland Schools Trust and (after much searching) we are delighted to have been able to secure a prime property in Chelsea,” said the Chair of Francis Holland Schools Trust. “We are confident that this move will enable us to o er our current Junior School pupils, and all prospective pupils, the very best preparation for their chosen Senior School.”
Francis Holland Prep has taken over
the impressive 20,000 sq ft site which was formerly the home of The Hampshire School, Chelsea in Manresa Road, SW3. The building, which dates back to 1890, combines heritage with modern learning spaces. The wealth of impressive facilities includes the old Chelsea library, a spacious School Hall with staging, a specialist STEAM facility and an extensive outdoor play area. The new location provides an outstanding platform for entry into leading Senior Schools, including our two Francis Holland Senior Schools.
Head of Francis Holland Prep and former Head of Francis Holland Junior School, Mrs Suzy Dixon said: “The move to Manresa Road provides the perfect environment to cultivate lively, thoughtful and questioning pupils who can debate with gusto, reflect on the world around them with care and empathy, solve problems creatively, and appreciate the bigger picture.”
Francis Holland Prep will maintain its close relationship with Francis Holland, Sloane Square Senior School. Specialist sta are continuing to teach at both schools, and the Senior School will continue to attract pupils from Francis Holland Prep at 11+. Senior School pupils will benefit, not only from greater space, but also from the exciting opportunities created for senior curriculum enhancement.
The next Open Mornings at Francis Holland Prep will take place on Monday 23rd September and Wednesday 16th October. Visit http://www.francishollandprep.org.uk/admissions/open-events/ to book now.
Modern boarding environments o er an excellent solution to the di culties of juggling two demanding careers. Schools like Cranleigh o er co-educational environments designed to help young people discover their talents and make the most of them.
Full, weekly or flexi boarding gives pupils time. Rather than commuting they are playing on the pitches, rehearsing in the studios, attending evening lectures from visiting speakers or simply hanging out with friends in the boarding house. Such an experience ensures that boarders leave as confident, independent, personable, well-rounded, adaptable and caring young people who are well equipped for future life. It’s that luxury of time that really elevates boarding. It allows budding
How the boarding environment at Cranleigh helps pupils to flourish time
By SAMANTHA PRICE
scientists, for example, to spread their wings academically – not just to learn the theory, but actually to do science: it’s di cult to lose yourself researching in the library or to take regular measurements for the experimental phase of your biology EPQ if you’ve got one eye on the clock to ensure you don’t miss the bus home. Boarding lends itself in this way to cultivating a genuine love for their subjects that isn’t always possible in the confines of the day school classroom. The longer school day also means that teenagers don’t have to choose between being a top academic and aiming for excellence on the sporting, music or drama front. From the 6am swim squad session through to the evening music competitions, boarding schools hum with activity… and pupils thrive on that energy. Along with beautiful campuses, superb co-curricular opportunities and greater scope for the development of independence, boarding schools o er time to stretch and
inspire young minds. Boarding school sta run regular ‘out of hours’ clinics, revision sessions, academic lectures, scholars’ societies, debates and dinners meaning learning can flourish into a meaningful experience. Parents are a big part of life at boarding schools like Cranleigh who o er all types of boarding in a modern approach that recognises the importance of family. I am Cranleigh’s first female Head and joined the school in September, following a successful decade as Head of Benenden School. I boarded myself at Malvern Girls’ College and I have a passion for creating boarding environments that nurture teenagers and equip them for life beyond the school gates.
Cranleigh is welcoming families to their Open Days on Saturday 21 September for Sixth Form and Saturday 12 October the whole school. Find out more at cranleigh.org
By ZOE IRELAND
am incredibly proud to be joining Prior’s Field, a school founded in 1902 on the principles of all-girls education. Our aim to empower young women to be leaders is more important than ever in 2024 and beyond; it is proven that an all-girls education o ers major benefits in bridging the skills gap and fostering academic and personal growth. It is a well-rehearsed argument that girls and boys learn di erently. They do. At Prior’s Field, unlike many schools, high achievement is not accompanied by high anxiety and it is my intention to maintain this equilibrium, which is so beneficial for our girls. Academically, girls in single-sex independent schools outperform their counterparts in coed schools. Recent analysis showed a clear 10% higher GCSE grades for students at all-girls’ schools, compared to girls in co-ed schools. One area which highlights this significantly is the enhanced focus on STEM subjects. The Department for Education (Dfe) data speaks for itself. Girls are almost three times as likely to take Further Maths and more than two times more likely to take Physics and Computing compared to girls in co-ed schools. It is my aim to develop Renaissance women – multi-faceted, multi-talented girls. At Prior’s Field we prioritise a breadth of experience as well as focus. From music to maths, from drama to DT, hockey to history, the channels into which our girls can pour their enthusiasm into are endless. Excellence, that much over-used word, can only be achieved when there are many chances to excel, and outside of the classroom, participation in sport is an area in which all-girls schools benefit significantly. With tailored sports programmes, girls are bucking the trend when it comes to traditional “boy” sports. At an
all-girls’ school, students are five times more likely to play cricket than if at co-ed and here at Prior’s Field, a quarter of all students play, with a 210% YOY increase over two years. Finally, and in a world where men still hold over 90% of C-Suite executive roles and a FTSE 100 CEO is more likely to be called Steve or Stephen, than to be female, singlesex education promotes the development of essential leadership skills. At Prior’s Field, we provide tailored enrichment to develop leadership, collaboration, and decision making. In our school community there is more space, more room, more oxygen for gaining emotional as well as academic intelligence and we place emphasis on interpersonal, social skills for our students' next steps. That starts with self-knowledge, self-belief, self-awareness and self-confidence – the sort of emotional ballast that can best be learnt in a school like Prior’s Field. We see our girls become bold and brilliant women, determined to make their mark on the modern world.
priorsfieldschool.com
A new era of learning has dawned at Hazelwood School
Hazelwood School is a coeducational Nursery and Prep School for children aged 9 months to 13 years, set among 25 acres of woodlands on the Surrey-Kent border. Hazelwood is an outstanding school with an exciting curriculum, phenomenal indoor and outdoor facilities, and a visionary approach to teaching and learning. Their continual drive to provide children with an enriching, well-rounded education that prepares them for the fast-changing world is fundamental to all key decisions made by the Head, Lindie Louw, and the Governors. In keeping with this approach, the new academic year sees the opening of an exciting new venture - the Ruth Bourne Building, named after the wife of the school’s founder. In September,
children in Years 5-8 will be able to enjoy this new space which will provide a clean and modern environment for children to collaborate, create and learn. Space-saving furniture allows for an uncluttered working environment, collaboration zones allow for brainstorming and team discussions, and wipeable walls will allow freeflowing ideas to be shared and problems openly discussed. More akin to a modern o ce space, this environment will provide older pupils with the space to truly engage and enjoy learning in a comfortable and contemporary setting. Recently, Hazelwood introduced the concept of Flexible Classrooms. Initially started as an interesting trial, it has been rolled out across the whole school. Pupils now have a choice of how they wish to sit in class: comfy seating with lap trays for individual iPad work, round tables perfect for collaborative
HAZELWOOD KNOWS THAT A ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL APPROACH DOES NOT WORK. ”
brainstorming (complete with whiteboards to capture ideas visually), quiet zones with beanbags for those seeking sensory input, and designated areas for focused independent work or extra support from the teacher. This dynamic environment fosters deeper engagement among pupils. Interactive, hands-on lessons become the norm, motivating pupils to take ownership of their learning journey. The freedom to choose their learning environment sparks creativity and critical thinking. It is not uncommon to see children sitting in class on wobble chairs or on the floor using lap desks. Hazelwood knows that a one-size-fits-all approach does not work. This element of selfchoice within a classroom setting has produced happier, more content children who are engaged in their learning. The benefits are seen in class assessment results, with one child achieving 22% higher in a maths test when he was able to use a standing desk to work. Wellbeing at Hazelwood is another key focus, as demonstrated by the opening of a Wellbeing Hub earlier this year. The hub provides a haven for children needing some time out to talk to a trained member of sta or for valuable one-to-one learning. In a world where everything is changing, Hazelwood is finding new ways to adapt to the individual and changing needs of pupils while still achieving impressive academic success and enrichment excellence.
Book a place on one of our Open Mornings at hazelwoodschool.co.uk
Friday 11th October
Years 7&8 Open Morning
Friday 22nd November
Whole School Open Morning
To arrange a visit or book a tour, contact admissions@hazelwoodschool.com
Teaching young people the value of supporting wider community is a life lesson best started young. We speak to two schools about how they inspire children to give back
At The Downs Malvern charitable activities involve all members of the school community. There’s a regular Macmillan Co ee Morning, organised by parents and the Friends of The Downs. Children are enthusiastic participants in this – and also in the events they mastermind. The recent Red Nose Day was led by Senior children, who set up stalls and games for the younger pupils to enjoy while supporting the charity’s fundraiser.
A big annual event is Earth Week, led by the school’s Eco-Team. They organise wholeschool activities that also span the curriculum. Initiatives have included a swap shop and car-pooling and a ‘run to school’ challenge. Children go meat-free for the week with a special menu.
One of the most popular events in Earth Week has been the ‘Trash-Fash’ fashion show, where children design and create extraordinary outfits from recycled materials. All this sits alongside eco activities in the boarding house and a sponsored fun run – recently children raised over £2,000 in
support of the Marine Conservation Society. All children get involved and some also make produce or organise their own sponsored event. Alongside these activities, there’s House Charities Day, where each House will research and then vote on a cause to support. Recently, funds have been raised for Air Ambulance, British Heart Foundation, Water Aid and local organisation Dementia Café, Malvern.
The school has ongoing relationships with a care home and a hospice. This gives children a local context and means the school can organise regular events. For instance, the youngest children in EYFS visit and sing fortnightly as part of a local initiative called ‘Debutots’. Christmas brings extra impetus, as children support the ‘Teams 4 U’ Christmas Shoebox Appeal by gathering gifts for children in Eastern Europe. Recently, they also sent lots of bags full of uniforms to a school in Romania. School Prefects organise food bank collections as an alternative to the traditional ‘secret Santa’ – pupils give up giving and receiving gifts to help others.
The school’s Community Engagement O cer, Polly Nuttall liaises with the
volunteers from the Malvern Hills Branch of the National Childbirth Trust (NCT) to identify the best ways to help out. This has included support for a nearly new sale and harnessing school spaces for paediatric first aid courses for local parents. The children love getting involved in a free Friday morning playgroup at the school called ‘Hoot’, suggesting activities and games which they then set up and tidy away.
Children at The Downs Malvern are always keen to suggest and support specific initiatives – for instance, raising funds for the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) via a production of Yanomamo – an awarenessraising musical about deforestation in the Amazon. Headmaster Andy Nuttall
says pupils are keen on fundraising, but also actively researching charities for themselves and then presenting facts to the whole school in assembly.
He says the school finds that children recognise charitable causes as both worthwhile and rewarding. The opportunity to take ownership for raising funds builds a sense of responsibility. Importantly, the recognise that contributing doesn’t just mean giving monet but also giving time. All this, says Andy Nuttall, develops understanding of important issues and of other people’s situations, despite children’s relatively limited life experience. “It helps to develop our young people into responsible, empathetic members of society,” he says.
"The Downs Malvern pupils are keen on fundraising, but also researching charities and presenting facts in assembly"
At Broomwood, a group of three schools and a nursery located in Wandsworth, south-west London, there are very strong community roots. This extends to partnerships with local organisations and good causes. Every two years the schools choose two local charities to support, with pupils voting from a shortlist suggested by parents, teachers or children themselves.
There are close links with other charities and outreach programmes, too – all supported enthusiastically by pupils. It may be a one-o fundraiser, or sometimes long-term support. For instance, with the school’s support for Little Village (a Londonwide charity for families with babies and young children) there are regular donation drives for clothes, toys and other essential kit. Pupils then take charge of sorting all donations for the charity. Lots of seasonal events and responses to specific appeals
“At Broomwood, there are regular donation drives, which pupils then sort for the charity”
also take place – for instance, concerts to support Ukraine, carols by candlelight, fun runs and a Christmas present drive for a local hospital’s children’s ward.
There’s an ongoing partnership with the local church, St Luke’s. Every week a few pupils head there to engage with people from its community group. They perform or share work they have completed or just talk and swap stories. It is a multi-generational community space that the school says benefits children as well as adults.
Broomwood pupils take their involvement in charity and giving back very seriously – leading the cake sales, voting on charities and fundraising diligently. They also fundraise on their
own at home, as well as engaging through visits and volunteering or more active events such as abseiling for the local hospital. All the positives from these activities are shared via assemblies – which often include guest-speaker visits from charities and groups.
The Broomwood team believe the real value of teaching children early lessons in giving back is that this helps them to gain a fuller sense of the world around the. It also encourages them to see things from the perspective of others. Focusing on giving rather than receiving builds self-worth, as children feel proud of their fundraising achievements and ability to support a good cause and do their best for others – be it family, friends or wider community.
JOIN US FOR OUR OPEN DAY
Saturday, 5th October | 10.00 am
Wetherby Senior School in central London is an independent day school for boys aged 11 to 18, offering an outstanding education that prepares pupils to become global citizens. With excellent pastoral care and a strong record of acceptance to top universities, the school supports and guides each student towards a bright future.
www.wetherbysenior.co.uk
With small class sizes, exceptional learning support and an active lifestyle, St David’s College helps all pupils shine
Many independent schools o er exceptional surroundings and small class sizes, but St David’s College in Llandudno, North Wales is one of a kind. It was established in 1965 by a forward-thinking educator John Mayor. He had been working in a school on the Wirral and identified many pupils who were highly able verbally but not on paper. He sought advice from Professor Tim Miles, a pioneer in dyslexia research, and the end result was St David’s.
In a letter describing the school’s founding vision, Mayor wrote: “We shall aim at sound scholarship, we shall pursue prowess at games, we shall encourage a love of the beautiful and of creative skills”. St David’s also aimed to be character forming and retains those Christian principles today, while welcoming all faiths.
Today the school educates boys and girls from 9 to 19. It is well known for its specialism in dyslexia, but around a third of pupils have no specific learning needs. “These pupils improve their added value because if you get a classroom right for dyslexic students you get it right for everyone,” says Dr Faye Favill, the school’s Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO. “The lessons are generally more interesting because they are chunks, they are multi-sensory, there is a lot of repetition, lots of preparation.”
Faye Favill has worked at the school for around a decade, and has a daughter
with dyslexia, so knows the extra support that helps from both a parent’s and educator’s perspective. “When I was first on a placement here, I was blown away by the class sizes, the one-to-one specialist provision and just the general knowledge of the teachers in how to make classrooms really inclusive. In our mainstream lessons we have a teacher that has a qualification in the teaching and learning of children with specific learning di culties. Class sizes are really small, so 12 is OK and 15 would be too big. With our less able pupils, there are normally between four and six in the class.”
At the heart of the school is The Cadogan Centre, a learning support resource everyone accesses. This was funded by Lord Chelsea some 50 years ago – a grateful parent whose son had thrived thanks to a St David’s College education. “The Cadogan Centre is like a golden thread that every department links towards – from sport to outdoor education
“Pupils improve their added value because if you get a classroom right for dyslexic students you get it right for everyone”
to more academic subjects,” says Faye Favill. There, specialist support teachers, all with a Level 7 qualification, support children with dyslexia or other types of SEN up to eight times a week. The team now o er a remote service too, increasingly popular with both UK and international students.
For all pupils, The Cadogan Centre is part of the learning week. The team deliver literacy and numeracy support and cross-curricular back-up, including personalised help for the able and talented – the brilliant mathematicians who falls down in other areas, for instance. “It’s just
picking up on what they are really good at and developing that self-confidence”. Many children come to St David’s with poor self-esteem, so boosting that is the starting point to unlocking their abilities.
There’s occupational therapy to support students who have specific barriers –perhaps gross or fine motor skills issues, or executive functioning sequencing skills (planning and organisation). Sta also help children who have sensory sensitivity (for instance, to light or noise) to manage symptoms. All children benefit from the kit that comes as standard here, including laptops with specialist software. “It’s a normal way of working,” says Faye Favill. Another successful approach at St David’s builds learning retention. “About
80% of every lesson is repeated in the following lesson, just to ensure that if there are any working memory di culties or auditory processing challenges that information goes into the long-term memory and helps with exams,” says Faye Favill. Teachers are supported in this by The Cadogan Centre specialists, who ensure they deliver learning in creative ways. “Rather than just relying on listening or reading, it’s using a wide variety of senses – and that is an approach that works for all students.”
The school builds both self-esteem and life skills using outdoor education, and it is in the perfect setting for adventures. Being active is part of every school day – it’s a long day, starting at 9am and
finishing just before 5pm – but carefully balanced and with around 80 minutes of sport and physical activity, not including break times. “One day a fortnight the kids go o timetable. They are rock climbing, sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding. It’s a di erent platform there, so someone who is a whizz in the classroom might find that more challenging than a pupil who has got a SEN,” says Faye Favill. At the end of Year 10, children are ready to spread their wings on an even bigger adventure – usually somewhere in Europe –to hone a specific skill such as rock climbing or sea kayaking. “Seeing children in these di erent environments is so important and we do find that our outdoor education programme builds a lot of confidence.”
Join Us for Our Open Day
Friday, 13th September | 9.30am
Falcons School in Putney is a co-educational nursery and prep school for pupils aged 2-11, fostering critical, creative, and independent learning in a supportive environment with exceptional pastoral care.
www.falconsschool.co.uk
Our experts answer your questions on helping a demotivated child and preparing for ISEB pre-tests for
senior school entry
Quintessentially Education
“For parents, it’s crucial to understand the role of the assessment in their target schools’ admissions process”
QMy child is taking the ISEB pre-tests in the autumn term this year. What can I do to prepare him over the summer holidays?
AThe key to ISEB success is preparation and familiarisation, and the summer holidays are the ideal time for children to get to grips with its features and the unique nature of the four individual tests: English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal reasoning.
Following a multiple-choice format, the assessment is adaptive (meaning that questions increase in di culty after each correct answer) and it is the accuracy of the answers, not the speed with which they are answered, that is important. Children should spend time learning how to properly interpret the question, rather than rushing – in turn helping them achieve the higher scores which are required by top schools.
For parents, it’s crucial to understand the role of the assessment in their target schools’ admissions process. Used by more than 70 of the most prestigious schools in the
UK, the ISEB is sometimes used as part of a wider, holistic assessment, only accounting for a small element of the overall consideration. For other schools, particularly those with higher numbers of applicants, the assessment is used as more of a screening exercise – only those scoring in the top percentile are invited back for the next stage.
As such, I would advise that parents get to know the assessment process of each school they are considering to ensure they understand the weighting of the test. Some children are natural test takers, whereas others may shine brighter at interviews, so it’s important to know whether the admissions process is suited to your child’s strengths.
With this in mind, setting some practice tests over the summer can be helpful in navigating the ISEB and, for children who require a little more support or who perhaps struggle with independent learning, working with a specialist school entrance exam tutor during the holidays may make a real di erence.
Managing Director, Simply Learning Tuition
QMy daughter has never been a high-flier, but she has always done quite well at school. However, in the past year I have noticed her marks and reports getting worse. She also seems less motivated about schoolwork. I am concerned for her but don't want to make things worse – is there anything I can do?
AChildren’s performance at school can deteriorate for many reasons. The key first step is to investigate what may be going wrong in your daughter’s case. Have an open, empathetic conversation with her. Avoid ‘why’ questions (‘why are you doing badly?’), as these will make her defensive. Instead, ask open-ended questions like, ‘I’ve noticed you seem to be struggling at school. Could you help me understand what’s going on?’. Consider talking to her teachers about your concerns. You could ask if they have noticed any changes in her behaviour, if she has changed friends,
and what her attitude to learning is like. The school’s perspective will help round out your picture of what is causing your daughter’s struggles.
If her marks are falling across subjects, motivation could be an issue. Many parents worry that their child is being lazy or simply does not care, but this is rarely the case. Lots of factors can be demotivating – the pressure to do well or feeling ‘stupid’ and unable to keep up, for instance. Often there is a vicious circle, where poor results lead to lower motivation.
it’s planning a study schedule or sitting with her as she does her homework –but you should gradually wean her o this support. Don’t forget to give her plenty of praise, but make this specific and related to e ort not results.
“Lots of factors can be demotivating – often there is a vicious circle where poor results lead to lower motivation”
It is common for children to struggle more at school as they get older because the study skills needed to succeed change. The ability to learn independently and manage time become more important. Many naturally intelligent children lack these skills, and they are rarely formally taught. Reflect on your daughter’s working environment at home – is it quiet, comfortable and distraction-free? Observe her working patterns and see whether she leaves enough time for homework or often seems disorganised.
As you try to support her, the key balance to manage is being there for her while not doing her work for her. She might need your help early on – whether
You may also want to consider enlisting the help of a private tutor. Many children struggle in group classes, where the lesson moves at the pace of the ‘average’ student, leaving those who find a topic challenging behind. Good tuition is tailored to the individual student’s needs and good tutors will not only cover the course content but also build up study skills – a trusted mentor, improving confidence and attainment in tandem.
One final note: try to separate the child from the grades. Your daughter very likely knows that she is underachieving and is probably struggling with this knowledge. The unconditional love of a parent will be the bedrock on which her return to success will be built. A blip in academic attainment is not uncommon and your daughter can definitely emerge stronger from the experience, provided she has an ecosystem of love and support to help her.
Anthea Turner and Wendy Turner give the lowdown on Underneath the Underground – their parallel whiskered universe below the capital
Like many good stories, Underneath the Underground began a long, long time ago in a far-o land. It was almost 30 years ago, in fact, when Anthea Turner and Wendy Turner were standing together on the platform at Knightsbridge Station waiting for the train. “We looked down and we saw these mice scurrying around. I think one of them had got a little bit of a sandwich in his mouth,” says Anthea. “He may even have waved at us!” adds Wendy.
It set the sisters thinking and, to while away the journey back home to Chiswick, they started inventing stories about a parallel city deep below the capital’s streets. Each mouse community would have a di erent identity (rather like London).
“I think we probably started out with Knightsbridge and decided they must be very posh mice,” says Wendy.
Westminster had the political mice, Wimbledon sporty types, and so on. The story flowed with remarkable ease. “As soon as you put the building blocks in – you’ve got the Underground – each of the stations are pertinent,” says Anthea.
The tales they told to while away a journey turned into a children’s book. It was
warmly received, although Anthea recalls a harsh critic complaining it was ‘London centric’ – perhaps missing the point. “It’s our capital city,” she says. “But then we have that advantage of being brought up a long way outside London and we always got so excited about visiting as children.” They are both long-time residents now but have never quite forgotten the childhood thrill of making a trip from Sta ordshire to the capital to see all the sights.
Some two years ago, when their mother was ill, they started thinking about the parallel city again. “Our Mum and Dad were still in Stoke-on-Trent, and we found ourselves driving up and down the M6 on these journeys that were four and five hours,” says Wendy. They talked about how much the capital and the world have changed since the original Underneath the Underground. “And I said: ‘do you fancy revisiting the mice – it could be fun?’.”
And so it is. The King’s Coronation and the Kohinoor Diamond, the first in the new series, centres on a world-famous sparkler ‘borrowed’ by Hounslow’s mice to light up the ballroom for their coronation celebration. The new King and Queen even appear as characters –an endearing, funny and slightly irreverent portrait to delight young readers.
Now the mice are back with Raining Strawberries at Wimbledon. Feisty young mouse Elly Archer breaks all the rules in her mission to travel to watch the Wimbledon Ladies’ Final without her parents finding out. Meanwhile, Harry the Hero Rat is planning on sna ing leftovers from the tonnes of strawberries sitting in SW19 to make strawberry jam for every single mouse living on the Underground. King Charles and Queen Camilla are back – this time playing in a charity match ahead of the famous
“Children can map the location of each and every Underneath the Underground whiskered community using that iconic map”
fortnight. Other famous faces appear, too, but it would be an unforgivable plot spoiler to mention what happens to poor Andy Murray. Mixing in real and four-legged characters makes for a pleasing fiction – it’s hard not to chuckle at the idea of the King and Queen playing tennis in their crowns. “We really liked them in the last book as characters, and we decided we have to keep them in
every story. Our Charles and Camilla are hilarious,” says Anthea.
The sisters sent the real King and Queen a copy of The King’s Coronation. Having met them at a Clarence House event a few years back, they still recall their warmth and sense of humour – so they may well enjoy their characters’ escapades. Other people appear more subtly, including their father. He’s in his early 90s but remains a keen geologist and enthusiastic mudlarker, so he had an important role in The King’s Coronation. “Dad’s never happier than when he is digging up something,” says Anthea.
Harry the Hero Rat is distinctively ginger and was inspired by the real African Giant Pouched Rat (the Gambian Rat) trained to undertake mine clearances in Mozambique. Closer to a small dog in physique than his UK rat namesakes, he would be rather too large to fit discreetly under the tracks of the Piccadilly Line, but no matter. Children can
look up the real-life inspiration for Harry on the BBC or YouTube and be awestruck. And they can also map the precise location of each and every Underneath the Underground whiskered community they read about using that iconic map. “It’s all geographically accurate,” says Wendy.
The inhabitants of this subterranean world will be back for another adventure at Christmas. The Turner sisters – along with their father – have just enjoyed an adventurous trek to the Galapagos Islands and set aside time on the voyage for discussing plotlines. So who knows what exotic characters and situations will be encountered by the whiskered folk living beneath London next time around?
Underneath the Underground: Raining Strawberries at Wimbledon by Anthea Turner and Wendy Turner is published by Splendid Books, £8.99.
Exploring the unique FeltonfleetWellbeing Curriculum, where mental fitness comes first
By HELEN MARLAND
When selecting a school, parents increasingly value not just academic prowess, but also the school’s dedication to students' emotional and mental wellbeing. Traditionally, pastoral care focused on mental health, addressing issues as they arose. However, the 21st-century challenges faced by pupils necessitate a broader approach. The concept of mental fitness has emerged, emphasising a proactive and dynamic pursuit of mental strength, resilience, and adaptability.
Beyond academic pressures, today’s pupils grapple with a rapidly changing world, unprecedented societal expectations, and the omnipresence of digital connectivity. Traditional models of pastoral care, centred on reactive responses to mental health concerns, are revealing their limitations in addressing the multifaceted challenges pupils encounter. A reactive approach may also inadvertently stigmatise mental health concerns, perpetuating the notion that seeking support is
reserved for times of crisis. Mental fitness, on the other hand, is about proactive wellbeing.
In response to this changing landscape, Feltonfleet’s Wellbeing Curriculum has evolved to transcend crisis intervention, and instead seek to actively instil practices fostering mental fitness. This includes resilience-building, emotional intelligence development, cognitive flexibility, and cultivating a growth mindset.
By dedicating curriculum time to mental health, mindfulness, mental fitness and elucidating the workings of the brain, we can highlight the significance of individual wellbeing. Mindfulness is a core component, equipping pupils to respond skilfully to the present moment, with open-minded curiosity and acceptance. Pupil-led 'mindful moments' have become a daily ritual, aiding concentration and settling thoughts.
Wellbeing Wednesdays and a comprehensive co-curricular enrichment program at Feltonfleet further support emotional management and personal growth, as well as provide platforms for self-exploration and identify formation. Mixed-age activities foster
a sense of community and leadership among older students while easing younger pupils' transition beyond the classroom. E ective social tracking and comprehensive assessments by a dedicated pastoral team is at the heart of our philosophy, enabling a deep understanding of each pupil’s learning and emotional needs, and thus tailored support for each individual.
Moving forwards, the imperative for schools is clear – to prepare pupils not only for academic success, but also to be mentally agile and emotionally robust. As educators, our responsibility extends beyond reacting to mental health concerns; we must actively cultivate the mental strengths that empower pupils to face the challenges of tomorrow. The wellbeing of pupils is not a mere complement, but an integral determinant of their overall growth and ability to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Helen Marland is Deputy Head (Pastoral) at Feltonfleet. Find out more by emailing admissions@feltonfleet.co.uk, calling 01932 862264 or visiting feltonfleet.co.uk
Q Can you give us an idea of your background in education?
A I actually started life as a lawyer, before moving into education, but in 2008 I joined Haberdashers’ Boys school up in Elstree as a French, Politics and Philosophy teacher. I loved my time there and I threw myself into all aspects of school life, from coaching hockey and taking the Duke of Edinburgh Award, to leading foreign trips and eventually becoming Housemaster and one of the school’s pastoral leaders. Then in 2016 I joined Merchant Taylors’ in Northwood, first as Head of Upper School, with responsibility for the pastoral and academic progress of the Sixth Form and oversight of the university entry process. A few years later I became the Senior Deputy Head (Academic) with oversight of the curriculum design, the academic departments, exam results and all our digital learning.
Q Can you o er some insight into your teaching philosophy?
A I think school should be great fun both inside the classroom and beyond it. Of primary importance is that we need to look after our pupils so that they feel confident, secure and happy in themselves. With that as the bedrock, they can then
engage wholeheartedly with their studies, develop their skills for life and pursue the co-curricular interests which will help them become the next generation of leaders of our country. Education is an extraordinary tool for transformation, and done right, it will see interested young people flourish, because their school life is so interesting.
Q What attracted you to the role of Head at Wetherby Senior School?
A The heritage and trajectory of the school. The school obviously grew out Wetherby and Wetherby Prep, and as we come into our tenth year now, Wetherby Senior is clearly a school which is going places. It has really established itself as a force to be reckoned with in London and the opportunity to lead it through the next stage of its journey was irresistible.
Q What are you looking forward to most about starting in September?
A I’ve spent the last eight months meeting with the sta , the governors and some of the parents and pupils, but to date that’s all been at one remove as the ‘future Headmaster’. Joe Silvester has led the school brilliantly and been incredibly helpful in our handover period, but until now it has still been his school. I’m eager to get
my feet under the desk, really get to know the pupils and parents, and move forward with some new projects for the school.
Q Do you face any challenges, or any ideas about what changes you will be making at the school?
A Wetherby Senior is part of the Inspired Education group of schools and I’m really excited by all the work they have been doing with educational technology. From integrating AI into assessment, to pupil and parent-
ROB GARVEY
“INSPIRING TEACHERS BUILD STRONG RAPPORT WITH THEIR PUPILS”
friendly learning platforms, even the Inspired Metaverse, they have really invested in technology to support pupils’ learning. Making the most of that is going to be a key aim for the next couple of years and that will take time and energy, but all the evidence shows that it has a big impact on pupils’ learning and that means it will be well worth it.
Q What do you expect to see in a typical classroom?
A Excellence in everything. Inspiring teachers build strong rapport with their pupils, who in turn trust and engage. Excellent lessons have a sense of energy about them, and pupils enter a sort of flow state where they are absorbed by their learning. I love hearing my pupils continuing to discuss the topic as they leave the room; that’s when I know I’ve taught a good lesson and that’s what I’ll be working with all my new colleagues to create.
Q How important is the co-curricular to you and at Wetherby Senior in general?
A In the past, schools used to talk about their ‘extra-curricular’ activities, but I’m delighted that we’ve moved towards referring to the co-curriculum because I consider it to be of huge importance; ‘extra-curricular’ implies it’s a bolt-on and I see it as far more significant than that. The co-curriculum serves numerous goals: it helps our boys to develop the skills they will need both in their personal lives and in the workplace; it provides opportunities for them to discover new interests and passions; and it’s fun!
Having a vibrant and integrated programme means that every boy at Wetherby can find their own pathway, which will allow him to develop and flourish. That’s why alongside the clubs and activities that run during the week, on Friday afternoons the whole school does co-curricular activities together to finish the week. Making it part of our curriculum timetable shows how important we think it is.
To learn more about Wetherby Senior School and register for the next Open Day, visit wetherbysenior.co.uk
MUST READ
7+
by
Published in association with University of Cambridge, this fabulous book takes a deep dive into the ocean – one of the last great unexplored realms.
Beginning in the Twilight Zone (200m+ down) and ending with the Hadal Zone (6,000m+), it profiles notable inhabitants. From the vampire squid in the half light, to the megamouth shark and bloody-belly comb jelly patrolling the Midnight Zone, and then the dumbo octopus even further below. Marine facts are combined with neon ink-enhanced illustrations to create a vivid window on a deeply weird and wonderful world.
From a mission to save the world and beasts from the deep to seasonal tales and foodie facts and fables, great reads for the summer ahead
by Mike Barfield illustrated
by Franziska Höllbacher
TEMPLAR, £10.99
Bubble wrap started life as a failed wallpaper and the Nerf Super Soaker was dreamed up for a NASA mission. These and other inventions (including the rollercoaster) are detailed in this comic-format book. Perfect inspiration for STEM enthusiasts and budding inventors, there's a sweep of objects large and small – each one supported by additional fascinating facts. We love the mini profiles of young inventors and 'how to' guide to getting a patent for your own big idea.
by Carlie Sorosiak NOSY CROW, £7.99
The author of I Cosmo has returned with a tale about a friendship between a fox and a girl whose family live on Great Lake. Our fox narrator meets Bee one night instead of Nan, who is usually there on the deck to feed him salmon. But Bee is wearing Nan's sweater, and she has a fox-like face – they feel a connection. Nan is missing, presumed drowned, but neither fox nor girl believe it, so they go to find her, uncovering mystery and magic along the way.
by Alison Brown FARSHORE, £7.99
Billie's got talent, so when a pet competition comes to town she's determined to show o her agility and innate sense of style. A young human adopts her and helps with training. On the day, she triumphs in every competition, except one. Forgetting her young friend's advice to tuck her wings in because 'some people can be funny about bees', she gets disqualified. Thankfully, the judges reconsider and Billie triumphs. Alison Brown's lovely story celebrates bees' importance, and with fun illustrations to support the text.
by Tom Mitchell
HARPERCOLLINS, £7.99
The author has form when it comes to great titles (How to Rob a Bank, That Time I Got Kidnapped, etc) and this might be the best yet. Colin Coleridge is expecting a long and boring summer. Then weird markings outside his house and suspicious strangers in his neighbour's garden encourage him to investigate with new friend Lucy. The duo discover a mysterious curse and an ancient sword as they go on their mission to save the world.
by Rachel Ip illustratedby Katie Hickey HACHETTE
CHILDREN'S, £14.99
Tulip adores nature – from puddles and snail shells to feathers and flowers – but she is also bursting with questions and wants names for everything she sees. Then she follows a makeshi nature trail drawn in chalk that helps her identify plants and flowers. Her delight is made even greater when a botanical book is delivered to her door. Through its pages, she can explore other landscapes around the world. Rachel Ip's text is packed with information about the natural world in a beautifully illustrated book for young readers.
‘”Wehavenothingbutpraisefortheschool.It's asclosetoperfectasanyschoolcouldbe.”
LingfieldCollegeisavibrantandsuccessfulindependent dayschoolforchildrenfrom6months-18years.Set amidstthebeautifulSurreycountryside,just30miles fromLondon,itisaninspiringplacetolearn.
Weofferauniqueblendofacademicexcellence, supportivepastoralcareandrichco-curricular opportunitiesthathelppreparethemforexcitingfutures.
Forfurtherinformation,tobook aspaceonour openmorning or toarrangea personaltour, visit ourwebsite. www.lingfieldcollege.co.uk 01342858153
by Ash Bond PICCADILLY, £12.99
Debut author Ash Bond is making waves with the first in what promises to be a smash hit series for fantasy fans and lovers of myths and legends. The plot centres on a heroine who has always loved her godfather's stories about life as an immortal. When he's kidnapped, things start to go very wrong as the portals between the Terran and Cosmic Realms break down. She is also under attack, so it's fortunate that Olympus Inc. are there to help her find her godfather before an ancient evil takes over.
by Caroline Rowlands
illustrated by
Alette Straathof NOODLE JUICE, £18.99
From legends to plays and fairy tales, stories have been handed down through generations. This book retells some of the most resonant from across the globe, gathering 52 (one for every week of the year) in one satisfying read. Author Caroline Rowlands has spread the net wide in space and time, mixing in stories from the Brothers Grimm and Hans Christian Andersen with those of Ovid, Plutarch and Shakespeare. There are also some wonderful fables from across the Middle East, Africa, India and the Americas.
by Jake Hope
illustrated by James Brown UCLAN PUBLISHING, £7.99
Lola is a four-legged heroine who loves heading out for walks in the company of her young human. She adores watching her doggy pals play games and her own favourite activity is hide and seek. The visual surprise in this tale is that you never see Lola in all her furry glory until the very end – and she is worth the wait. With a large format to show o James Brown's evocative illustrations, plus pacy read-aloud text, this is book to delight young animal lovers.
4+
by Britta Teckentrup PRESTEL, £12.99
One of our most gi ed author/ illustrators returns with an upli ing story about facing fear. A little girl is lost in the dark wood, alone and frightened. She tries to disappear, to hide, to run, and then a huge bear asks her to turn around, step closer and take courage. She does, and the bear carries her (and us) on a journey from dark wood to sunny meadows. The girl feels joy again – and also realises that fear and courage are both a part of her identity.
Bursaries of up to 100% and Academic Scholarships of up to one third of full fees are available.
Senior
To
registrar@fhs-sw1.org.uk 020 7730 2971 www.fhs-sw1.org.uk
Senior
To
registrar@fhs-nw1.org.uk 020 7723 0176 www.fhs-nw1.org.uk
Cute, stylish, and practical, Liewood’s new collection of nursery essentials has everything you need for a new addition to the family. From beautifully printed babylifts, to adorable hooded towels, it’s a one stop shop for the littlest ones. liewood.com @liewood_design
Finding the perfect weekend activity for you and your little one can be challenging, especially when it comes to high-quality, engaging classes that fit around a busy family schedule. That’s why SwimWay is thrilled to introduce Sunday morning Parent & Baby swimming lessons at their Wimbledon/ Southfields venue on Victoria Drive, SW19 6HW — an o ering that’s quickly becoming a favourite for local families. These Sunday classes are designed with both parents and babies in mind, providing a wonderful opportunity for weekend bonding in a supportive, fun, and educational environment. The small group sessions cater to children aged 3 to 36 months, focusing on early water familiarity and safety — skills that are crucial as your child grows. With the weekend sometimes being the only time when both parents are available
to participate in activities, the Sunday lessons in Wimbledon o er a chance for either parent to share in these experiences. They also o er Saturday morning lessons at their Gordon Avenue Pool in East Sheen (SW14 8DZ) and Sunday mornings in their Kew Gardens pool (TW9 2EL).
In addition to the new Sunday morning slots, SwimWay continues to o er weekday Parent & Baby lessons across multiple nearby locations, including Wimbledon / Southfields, Clapham Common, and Balham / Tooting Bec. For families who prefer or need weekday options, lessons are available on Wednesday and Friday mornings in Clapham, Friday mornings in Balham, and Thursday and Friday mornings in Wimbledon.
SwimWay Parent & Baby classes are more than just swimming lessons — they are a holistic approach to your child’s early development. Experienced instructors guide both parents and babies through exercises that promote water confidence,
“SwimWay Parent & Baby classes are more than just swimming lessons – they are a holistic approach”
submersion, breath control, and basic swimming movements. The controlled, focused environment of the small classes allows for personalised attention, helping each child progress at their own pace. These lessons are also a powerful way to strengthen the bond between parent and child. The shared experience of learning to navigate the water together develops trust and deepens connections. Parents often find that these sessions are as much about bonding and spending quality time with their child as they are about teaching them how to swim! Autumn Term starts Monday, 2nd September, so now is the perfect time to secure your place! Whether you choose a weekend or weekday option, SwimWay is committed to providing a nurturing environment for you and your child.
To book your space or learn more, contact SwimWay today at 0208 871 3972 or i nfo@swimway.co.uk
Carly Glendinning rounds up everything you need for the new term
Puff Love
TÖASTIE
Made using recycled down, this pu er coat has a fi ll power of 650 for ultimate warmth. Practical and stylish. £125. toastiekids.com
STICKY LEMON
Sticky Lemon’s collection of colourful backpacks is perfect for heading back to school in style. We want them all. stickylemon.nl
BANWOOD
Editor’s Pick
Cycling to school doesn’t get much more stylish. We love this bike from Banwood. £290. banwood.co.uk
MARKS & SPENCER
Marks & Spencer is a one-stop-shop for all things back to school – from uniform to shoes. They cater for every age – from nursery school upwards. marksandspencer.com
DJECO
Djeco has a brilliant selection of back to school accessories including this super cute umbrella. £9.75. tickety-boo.co.uk
MERI MERI
This ladybird bag from Meri Meri would be super cute for their PE kit. We love the classic drawstring style. £29. merimeri.co.uk
Click ‘add to basket’ on these essentials now... 1 2
3
4.
5. Tinc, Mintees Fluff y Pencil
of the Absolutely Mama
You, our loyal readers, and our expert parenting panel here at Absolutely Mama judged each category and you can see who won each of the awards below. We would like to say a big thank you to everyone who voted and to all the brands who took part.
Congratulations to all of our winners!
Best Children’s
Fashion Brand
Gold: Emile et Rose
Silver: Cozy Crew Club
Bronze: Zig + Star
Best Compact Stroller
Gold: Joolz
Silver: Didofy
Bronze: Elodie
Best Feeding
Nursing Product
Gold: BioGaia
Silver: Lesh
Bronze: Elodie
Best For Early Years
Gold: Little Prodigies
Silver: Ryloobaby
Bronze: Bumbles and Boo
Best Mealtime Range or Product -
Gold: Eden’s Bloom
Silver: Annabel Karmel
Bronze: Organix
Best Nappy Range
Gold: Kit & Kin
Silver: Pura
Bronze: Rascals
Best Nursery / Interiors Product
Gold: CuddleCo
Silver: Mokee
Bronze: Moppet
Best Online Retailer
Gold: Natural Baby
Shower
Silver: Kidswear Collective
Bronze: Eeny Meeny
Best Parenting App
Gold: Annabel Karmel
Silver: The Rocket House
Bronze: Cloud Baby Monitor
Best Toy
Gold: Lovevery
Silver: Connetix
Bronze: Jolly Designs
Best Travel Products or Systems
Gold: Doona
Silver: Venicci
Bronze: Didofy
Can’t Live Without Parenting Product
Gold: Waterwipes
Silver: Colief
Bronze: Glow Dreaming
Most Eco
Friendly Brand
Gold: Pura
Silver: Alora Baby
Bronze: Kit & Kin
“Supporting the natural development of our baby’s gut microbiome is so important”
Why the first 1000 days are crucial for your baby’s long-term health
Maternal nutrition: Your diet during pregnancy has a direct impact on baby’s development. Making sure you’re getting enough nutrients including folic acid, iron, and DHA is vital for brain and organ development.
Baby nutrition: If you’re able to, breastfeeding provides all the essential nutrients for the first six months. Once your little one starts eating solids, a balanced diet is crucial for supporting healthy growth. It also lowers the risk of long-term chronic diseases and conditions.
Supplements: In addition to a balanced diet, supplements such as Colief® Multibiotic Drops can have a positive impact on digestive health. Colief® Multibiotic Drops are suitable for both breastfed and formula-fed babies. They contain 1.1 billion live cultures of Lactobacillus rhamnosus, LGG®, one of the most researched gut-loving bacteria strains in the world and Bifidobacterium infantis, a scientifically proven friendly bacteria for babies and children.
Building immunity: Leading UK nutritionist Rhiannon Lambert, who specialises in preand post-natal nutrition, has partnered with Colief® to raise awareness of the importance
of maintaining your baby’s natural gut flora. She says: “Supporting the natural development of our baby’s gut microbiome is so important for their overall health and immune system. Research now suggests that the first few months of a baby’s life are key when it comes to the balance of gut bacteria, as the gut microbiome undergoes the majority of its development before the age of 2 years. This is where factors like diet and environment play a role, as they can encourage or disrupt this delicate balance. It’s important to encourage a diverse diet throughout a child’s life but especially under the age of 2. Alongside a healthy balanced diet you can use a supplement, such as Colief® Multibiotic Drops. These contain live cultures that may help to introduce and sustain beneficial bacteria in your baby’s digestive system.”
Long-term health: Building a robust immune system early on reduces the likelihood of developing allergies, autoimmune diseases, and other chronic conditions. Colief® Multibiotic Drops strengthen the immune system, potentially lowering the risk of allergies and promoting overall well-being.
Colief® Multibiotic Drops 8ml are available to buy for £8.00 on www.amazon.co.uk. For more information on Colief® Multibiotic Drops head to their website here: https://babycare.colief.com/happy-gut
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
Carly Glendinning on the best new nursery interiors pieces
RUGGABLE
Ruggable’s designs are perfect for creating a space that will grow with your little one. The brand’s rugs can be chucked in the washing machine and we highly recommend choosing a cushioned pad for kids. ruggable.co.uk
AVERY ROW
I love Avery Row’s new ‘Coastline’ organic cotton single bedding set. There’s a graphic checked print on one side and pretty underwater print on the reverse for maximum versatility. £58. avery-row.com LITTLE DETAILS
CUDDLECO
This cute little rattan shelf makes the perfect home for special items. I’m using it to house my daughter’s Maileg mouse collection, but it would be perfect for little books too. £59.99. cuddleco.co.uk
MERI MERI
This versatile flower cushion from Meri Meri works well with lots of different interior themes – from flower fairies to slightly more grown up ‘60s nostalgia. £36. merimeri.co.uk
LE TOY VAN
A timeless doll’s house is the perfect centrepiece in a little one’s room. I love that this one has a gender-neutral feel, making it easy to pass along. £149.95 letoyvan.co.uk
Editor’s Pick
KIDS CONCEPT
This pavilion tent from Kids Concept at Scandiborn has been a brilliant addition to my daughter’s room. We change it up, using it as an imaginative play space and a reading nook. £164. scandiborn.co.uk
WILLA AND THE BEAR
Lots of cosy textures make all the difference in kids’ rooms. This hand-stitched Kantha Quilt from Willa and the Bear can be used to style the bed or as a playmat. £58. willaandthebear.com
JOIN US FOR OUR OPEN DAY
uesday, 15th October | .00 am
Wetherby Preparatory School in central London is an independent day school for boys aged 7 to 13. Known for providing exceptional education and pastoral care, the school has a proven track record in preparing boys for entry into the top Senior Day and Boarding schools in the country.
www.wetherby re .co.uk
Five good reasons to
Kirsty Wild, a nanny employment expert at payroll provider Nannytax, offers five very good reasons to think about employing a nanny
1
Nannies work flexible hours. For parents who work shifts or antisocial hours, who travel regularly, or who only visit the o ce a few days a week, a nanny can fit around changing schedules, doing school pick-ups and drop o s when you can’t. Most nannies will also work overtime, if your kids are o sick from school, for example.
2
There are nannies for every stage of your child’s development and needs, including maternity nannies, night nannies and male nannies (AKA ‘mannies’). There’s also demand for more ‘hyphenated’ nannies, who come to the profession with additional skills from previous roles. These include SENnannies, nanny-tutors, nanny-music teachers, nanny-home schoolers and nanny-PAs.
3
Nannies o er personalised, at-home care, invaluable to children who cannot adapt to long days with breakfast and after-school clubs book-ending the school day. While some relish the extra socialising
time, others need to wind down at home. Nannies are also an amazing support for children with complex needs, putting in place day- and night-time routines to help children feel safe and secure in their environment.
4
Eligible working parents can pay their nanny, provided they are Ofstedregistered, through the tax-free childcare scheme, meaning you can get up to £500 every three months for each of your children under 12 to help with the costs of
“There are nannies for every stage of your child’s development.”
childcare, or double that figure for a child under 17 who is disabled. To be eligible for the scheme, parents must earn less than £100k combined.
5
Some nannies are happy to be shared! Nanny shares, where two families employ the same nanny, and their children are cared for together, are a win-win.
In the UK, nannies earn on average £15.51 per hour according to our nanny salary index.
In a nanny share, the nanny must be paid at least minimum wage from each family, currently £11.44, for a nanny over the age of 21, pushing their earnings up to at least £22.88 per hour, while delivering substantial savings to parents. Some discussion is needed to work out schedules and in which home the majority of care takes place but, with careful planning, it is an arrangement that provides a stable, consistent and cost-e ective childcare environment, and the same social benefits as a childminder or nursery.
nanny.tax/mama
Proper dining etiquette for children from Marie-Chantal, Crown Princess of Greece
“Dining at the family table should be an enjoyable experience”
Now more than ever, I see the importance of a family meal. This is where storytelling happens, and we learn about our children. Some of my fondest memories are of sitting around the kitchen table with my parents and siblings. The family table is a place where children develop not only healthy eating habits but also good manners and conversational skills. Carving out a few minutes each morning to have breakfast with your family creates a structure that is both nurturing and stabilising. As I say, manners begin at breakfast. Here are a few rules that have worked for my family and some that I have gathered from my friends.
I love routines! Many parents allow their children to eat in front of the television or computer, or while playing a video game, as it may seem easier and we probably think that it makes the child happier. However, children who routinely have meals in front of the television or at di erent times from their parents don’t get the chance to engage in conversation on an adult level. Family conversations give your child a sense of belonging and help to raise children who feel comfortable around adults. The family table is where these social skills are cultivated, from holding a knife and fork properly, to engaging in meaningful conversation. It teaches children to be good listeners, which helps them to foster empathy. Encourage your children to join in the family conversation and to talk and to share news of their day at mealtimes; dining at the family table should be an enjoyable experience.
Washing your hands before a meal is a simple task and a healthy habit. I remember my grandmother insisting on it when I was a child. Children are often a bit resistant to the idea, but try to get them into the habit of always washing up before dinner and coming to the table with clean hands. The bottom line is that it removes any germs from their little hands; after all, we want to pass only dishes around during mealtimes, not diseases!
The only time a child should use their hands is when eating bread and other finger-friendly foods! Cutlery training should start early, when your little one is experimenting with finger food. As soon as they seem ready, introduce them to a baby spoon and fork. When my children were very young, I used to take little forks and spoons along to restaurants, and would ask for their food to be placed in a bowl, making it easier for their spoons to grab hold of the food. It’s okay to insist on, and continually reinforce, manners while your child is eating. They might resist at the time, but they will thank you for it later.
When one of my children’s friends dines at my house, I find it incredibly polite and it melts my heart if they ask to be excused from the table, or o er to bring their plate to the kitchen or to help clear up after the meal. It’s a lovely gesture toward an adult, whatever your circumstances. In some cultures and settings, however, o ering to help clean up could be seen as rude or unsophisticated, so always teach a child when it is and isn’t appropriate. Everyone has their house rules, so stick to the rules and you can’t go wrong. A good tip is to teach your children to observe what the children of the house are doing, so that they can follow their example. As a rule, when in very formal situations it’s better not to o er, but in a casual home setting, an o er to help or a polite “May I be excused?” will generally be well received.
Adapted from ‘Manners Begin at Breakfast: Revised and Updated Edition’ by MarieChantal of Greece. Illustrations by Nicholas Child. Published by Vendome Press.
Carly Glendinning stays at the Jumeirah Carlton Tower in Knightsbridge
A stone’s throw from Sloane Street’s designer boutiques in the heart of Knightsbridge, the Jumeirah Carlton Tower overlooks a peaceful garden square. Over 60 years old, the hotel was given a glamorous update during the pandemic. Think timeless elegance with sleek modernist appeal.
We stayed in a plush Junior Suite, which was plenty big enough for our family of three. Running into the room, our three-year-old was delighted to see a play tent set up with Roald Dahl-themed goodies, including stories, games, and the cutest monogrammed slippers. The hotel’s ‘Family First with Roald Dahl’ package also includes breakfast, complementary access to The Peak Fitness Club and Spa, exclusive access to Cadogan private gardens, including a tennis court, and more. We loved all of the luxurious little extras in the room.
I could write a 100 page love letter to The Peak Fitness Club and Spa. I escaped up to the gym on the seventh floor when it opened at 7am on
Saturday. Probably the most luxurious gym I’ve ever been in, I tested out the seriously state-of-the-art equipment with a run that had panoramic views of London’s skyline. After breakfast, we took our daughter to the second floor for a swim (children are allowed to use the pool from 8-10am and 3-5pm). A heavenly space, it’s home to London’s largest naturally lit swimming pool thanks to a magnificent double height glass ceiling. We could’ve happily stayed all day.
We had dinner with our three-year-old at The Chinoiserie. The all-day dining area is relaxed enough for children, although I would recommend dining earlier as the vibe gets more grown up later on. My daughter enjoyed the kids’ menu and I had a plant-based burger. We had a leisurely breakfast at the chic La Maison Ani. There was a huge selection of pastries as well as a la carte options. But the pièce de résistance was the afternoon tea inspired by Highgrove House & Gardens. This was a truly special experience, with sandwiches, tea, a scones course, as well as showstopping cakes.
The ‘Family First’ o er starts from £800 per night jumeirah.com
Cultivating growth in the first two years
Kinderzimmer Day Nursery & Preschool believes in the transformative power of play in shaping early childhood. Play is the cornerstone of early development, unlocking a child’s full potential. Here are some benefits of play in the first five years:
From birth, play is how children explore and understand the world. It lays the foundation for cognitive, motor, social, and emotional development, essential for lifelong learning.
Cognitive Magic Unveiled: Play stimulates curiosity, problem-solving and creative thinking. Activities like stacking blocks, imitating sounds, or sorting colours fi ne-tune cognitive skills.
Motor Marvels in Motion: Playful activities such as fi nger painting, crawling, hopping, or grasping toys help develop fi ne and gross motor skills.
Social Symphony Begins: Interactions like peek-a-boo, singing rhymes, or parallel play build the understanding of emotions, taking turns, and forming friendships.
Emotional Exploration: Dramatic play and reflective activities enable children to express, process, and understand their emotions.
Parents are crucial in orchestrating play. Kinderzimmer’s tips for creating a captivating play environment at home include:
1. Follow Their Lead: Provide toys or activities that align with your child’s interests.
2. Simple Pleasures: Household items like pots, pans, scarves, and boxes can spark imagination.
3. Unplug for Play: Encourage screenfree play to fully engage their senses. Involve children in household tasks.
4. Be Present: Engage in your child’s activities, listen to their stories, and enjoy shared moments.
5. Outdoor Adventures: Nature o ers rich sensory experiences. Explore parks, beaches, or your backyard.
“PLAY STIMULATES CURIOSITY, PROBLEMSOLVING AND CREATIVE THINKING”
6. Rotate Toys: Limiting toys prevents overwhelm and encourages deeper engagement.
7. Play Together: Bonding through play fosters connection and joy.
Enrolling your child in day nursery can provide a structured, nurturing environment for learning through play. Quality early years education o ers diverse experiences, from independent learning to social interaction, supported by experienced educators specialising in early childhood education.
When choosing an early education provider, consider the curriculum, teacherto-child ratio, and overall atmosphere. Visiting settings and talking to other parents can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your child’s needs and your family’s values.
kinderzimmer’s tailored approach to learning through play nurtures your child’s growth holistically and joyfully. Embrace the magic of play and guide your child’s journey through their fi rst five years.
To find out more, visit kinderzimmer.co.uk
The Butts, TW8
£1,846 per week
Situated moments from the River Thames, a magnificent family home providing five bedrooms. On a charming square, the immaculately presented semi-detached house o ers over 2,800 sq. ft. of living space. Positioned in a desirable location, there are superb transport connections making it an excellent base for travelling around the capital be it for work or pleasure, energy rating d.
Dexters Brentford. 194 High Street, London, TW8 8LB T: 020 8939 6077 E: brentfordlettings@dexters.co.uk
Airedale Avenue, W4
£2,200,000
Perfectly placed on a tree-lined street, a beautifully designed detached home. Presenting five bedrooms, the Edwardian property comes with a generously sized entertaining rooms and a large rear garden, ideal for hosting in the summer months. Close to the High Street, there is a wide range of independent retailers, restaurants and boutiques as well as Turnham Green nearby, energy rating b.
Dexters Chiswick. 388 Chiswick High Road, London, W4 5TF
T: 020 8995 4321 E: chiswicksales@dexters.co.uk
£ ,795 per week
erfectly placed close to Turnham reen, this uni ue home is in a prime west ondon location. There are four double bedrooms and two generously si ed reception rooms, energy rating e.
020 7 03 0 03
chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com
Vaughan Avenue, W6
£ ,9 per week
n attractive four bedroom home within the popular edford ark area. inished to a high standard throughout, the charming kitchen leads out to a pictures ue garden, energy rating d.
020 87 2 00
chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com
£2,077 per week
Situated in rove ark, a beautifully designed property with ve bedrooms. The contemporary kitchen opens onto to a landscaped garden, ideal for entertaining, energy rating c.
020 87 2 00
chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com
St Peters Square, W6
£2,88 per week
oments from the iver Thames, a magni cent house providing plenty of living space. n a sought after s uare, the period family home has four bedrooms, energy rating c.
020 7 03 0 03
chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com
Airedale Avenue, W4
In a desirable Chiswick postcode, a striking four bedroom home that has been tastefully remodelled throughout.There is an imposing principal bedroom with a balcony and a grand en-suite complete with a bath and separate spa shower. Surrounded by several superb neighbourhoods, there are also a variety of excellent shops and restaurants nearby, energy rating d.
£3,500,000
020 8987 3000
chiswicksales@fletcherestates.com
£7,750,000
£4,125,000
