Absolutely Yorkshire Magazine February 2025 by ABSOLUTELY Magazines

PLUS

JAMES MARTIN

The Malton-born chef on surprising us all on stage • ROMANTIC SOULS

10 of the best spots in Yorkshire for couples

• ELSWORTH AT THE MILL

Skipton's most diverse restaurant

News and views from the county's best schools

ROSES

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TREAT YOUR LOVED ONES WITH ETERNAL YOUTH

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EDITOR

MARK KEBBLE

ART DIRECTOR

PAWEL KUBA

SENIOR DESIGNERS

MIKE ROBERTS

SUZETTE SCOBLE

MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER

CARMEN GRAHAM

DESIGNER

MARIANA SUZUKI

PRODUCTION MANAGER

DANICA BRODIE

MEDIA CONSULTANTS

MELANIE HARDCASTLE

RACHEL STEAD

FINANCIAL DIRECTOR

JERRIE KOLECI

CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER

ALEXANDRA HVID

DIRECTORS

CRAIG DAVIES

JAMES FUSCHILLO

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

ALEXANDRA HUNTER

MANAGING DIRECTOR

SHERIF SHALTOUT

For editorial enquiries please email: mark@zest-media.com

For advertising enquiries please call 07818 690 386 or email: craig@zest-media.com

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Yorkshire YATTER

Lisa Byrne on the local charity

helping us all to see a little better

I’ve travelled all over the world and seen some awe-inspiring sights, but nothing comes close to watching the sublime, burnt amber sunrise in the Vale of York – it truly is a magical vision, warming the soul at the dawn of the day. Many of us take this glorious scene for granted but for some, this vision can only exist in the imagination. In the past, there was sadly a severe lack of help and encouragement for people with visual impairments, with only basic treatment available. It would have been impossible to imagine someone like the utterly inspirational comedian Chris McCausland, who is blind after being diagnosed with the degenerative retinitis pigmentosa in his 20s, waltzing o with the glitterball trophy at Strictly Come Dancing.

The whole country was moved to tears by Chris’s emotional victory, no more so than the community who are part of Yorkshire’s historic Wilberforce Trust – it’s the kind of integration that they’ve been ﬁghting for, for years. The charity, which celebrates its bicentenary in 2033, has been helping people with sight loss ever since it was set up in

response to a legacy left by famed slave emancipator, William Wilberforce. Its initial aim was to build a school for the education of blind children and adults, many of whom were taught in York’s historic King’s Manor.

The charity has transformed over the centuries and now supports many people with sight and hearing impairment throughout Yorkshire from its spectacular new headquarters o York’s Tadcaster Road. Apart from supported housing and living, there’s also world-class sensory services and a wonderful activity group for children called Club Wilber.

Talking about how attitudes towards disabilities have changed over the years, the trust’s CEO Eleanor Stead explained: “What Chris achieved on Strictly was mind boggling and absolutely inspirational, especially for people who are part of charities like Wilberforce.” But she believes there’s still much more work to be done. “Having a role model like Chris has been truly phenomenal for us,” she adds. “However, we’d love to see a world where people with sight and hearing loss and other disabilities are truly fully integrated into society.”

There have been huge technological leaps in research on preventing age-related blindness as well as treatment for those born blind. But it’s great to know that a Yorkshire charity has been at the forefront of o ering huge support and care for people dealing with this impairment throughout the centuries. Without doubt, it’s the dawn of a new era. For more information visit wilberforcetrust.org.uk

My highlights for February…

Feasting on a delicious Sunday lunch at Tommy Bank’s amazing Roots restaurant in York (above).

Bravely entering the eerie atmosphere of Pontefract Castle for its spooky dungeon tour.

Smelling heavenly a er discovering my new favourite scent, Époque Tropical by Brazil’s oldest perfume brand, Granado.

Gazing at the incredible ‘white carpet’ of snowdrops at Burton Agnes Hall.

LISA BYRNE

VALE OF YORK

CHRIS MCCAUSLAND

Wish LIST

HUNG UP

Meri Meri's Valentine's garlands are designed to be strung around liberally, showering love everywhere. This showstopper garland features hearts, pinwheels and lots of glitter. merimeri.co.uk

DIOR AMOUR

The Dioramour capsule includes prints such as Le Coeur des Curiosités, designed by artist Pietro Ruffo, depicting birds, butterflies and fl owers that twirl and intertwine, forming a precious heart. dior.com

PERFECT MATCH

Made from 100% mulberry silk and tailored in a Fairtrade tailoring unit using low impact AZO free dyes, the Ethical Silk Company's pyjamas are block-printed by hand and feel even better than they look. theethicalsilkco.com

ALL IN HAND

This Breitling watch has a pink mother of pearl dial with polished hands and 12 lab-grown diamond set hour markers, red tipped seconds hand. Sapphire crystal glass and water resistant up to 30m. berrysjewellers.co.uk

SCENT LOVE

Nomad Noe's Lover candle wraps you in a gentle breeze from a quiet sea with its fragrance of ﬁ g and groves of golden orange trees. nomadnoe.com

EDITOR’S PICK

IN THE PINK

Delicate shades of pink and peach plus roses, embroidery and lace characterise the romantic collectinons at Amelie's Follies, an ideal Valentine's destination. ameliesfollies.co.uk

FRENCH FANCY

What is Valentine's Day without macarons? Laduree's gorgeous heart-shaped boxes come ﬁ lled with all your favourite ﬂ avours. laduree.co.uk

TWO'S COMPANY

A captivating Malayan garnet stone takes centre stage in this stunning two stone gemstone ring design from Berry’s Jewellers. The design has been cra ed from platinum and 18ct rose gold and has received a ﬂawless surface polish to enhance the entrancing pink and purple tones of this mesmerising stone. berrysjewellers.co.uk

ENGLISH ROSE

Blooming Haus's 24k gold gilded luxury rose comes in a plush limited edition Valentine’s box with a personalised message and can delivered to your recipient's door. bloominghaus.com

KISS KISS

Anthropologie's Valentine's Bistro tile collection draws inspiration from Parisian cafes, adding a hint of glamour with 24k gold decals. anthropologie.com

CULTURE Swan Lake

27 FEBRUARY, STEPHEN JOSEPH THEATRE

Classical ballet's most powerful tale of love, treachery and forgiveness comes to the screen via the Royal Ballet’s stunning production. Bringing together Tchaikovsky’s sensational score with the incredible imagination of choreographer Liam Scarlett and designer John Macfarlane, Swan Lake on the big screen will be an exceptional way to experience this ultimate ballet classic. sjt.uk.com

The Agenda

FEBRUARY'S HOTTEST HAPPENINGS

EVENT

Banff Film Festival

19

FEBRUARY,

YORK BARBICAN

The Ban Mountain Film Festival features a brand-new collection of short films filled with extreme journeys, untamed characters and captivating cinematography. Join the world’s top adventure filmmakers and thrill-seekers as they climb, ski, paddle and ride into the wildest corners of the planet.

ban -uk.com

THEATRE

The Merchant of Venice 1936

18–22 February LEEDS PLAYHOUSE

Ambition, power and political unrest explode onto the stage in The Merchant of Venice 1936, direct from selling out the RSC. Starring Tracy-Ann Oberman as Shylock, Shakespeare’s classic is transported to 1930s Britain where tensions in London’s East End are rising. leedsplayhouse.org.uk

EVENT

From Haworth to Eternity

1 February–1 January 2026

BRONTË PARSONAGE MUSEUM

Haworth, home of the famous literary Brontë family, is a key focus through all content for 2025 at the museum exhibition ‘From Haworth to Eternity’, which charts how fascination with the family has evolved. Regular talks feature, among others, playwright and theatre director Polly Teale. bronte.org.uk

PHOTO:

MARC BRENNER

EVENT

COMEDY

Jon Culshaw

20 February

LEEDS CITY VARIETIES

The star of BBC Radio 4's Dead Ringers and BBC One's The Impressions Show, Jon Culshaw is set to follow up his 2023 Edinburgh Festival Fringe sell-out residency with a solo tour of impressions, comedy and music. Join Jon as he conjures up an array of the best-known personalities from the worlds of entertainment, politics, and beyond in his trademark style. leedsheritagetheatres.com

BRONZE GOD

Don’t miss the chance to witness the stunning work of Daniel

at YSP

DARK SKIES FESTIVAL

14 February-2 March

NORTH YORK MOORS

Space scientist and broadcaster Dame Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock MBE is set to help launch the 10th anniversary of the North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales National Parks’ Dark Skies Festival this month. Dame Maggie will be delivering her talk ‘Reaching for the Stars – an exploration of the night sky’ at Sneaton Castle in Whitby on 13th February. darkskiesnationalparks.org.uk

This Month’s Must See C

Chicago

hicago returns to She eld, starring Faye Brookes as Roxie Hart. Set amidst the razzle-dazzle decadence of the 1920s, Chicago is the story of Roxie Hart, a housewife and nightclub dancer who murders her on-the-side lover after he threatens to walk out on her. Desperate to avoid conviction, she dupes the public, the media and her rival cellmate, Velma Kelly, by hiring Chicago’s slickest criminal lawyer to transform her crime into a barrage of sensational headlines. she eldtheatres.co.uk

There is not much time le to experience the work of the highly acclaimed North American artist Daniel Arsham in the grounds of Yorkshire Sculpture Park (YSP). Five of Daniel’s bronze sculptures are on show outdoors in the 18th-century Formal Garden at YSP until 30th March including Bronze Extraterrestrial Bicycle (2022), Bronze Eroded Bunny (Large) (2022), and the three-metre tall Bronze Eroded Venus of Arles (Large) (2022) –Daniel’s retelling of the ancient marble statue of Aphrodite from the 1st century BCE.

Daniel’s sculptures appear as archaeological remnants of our time that he describes as ‘future relics’. His artistic practice is underpinned by the formative childhood experience of surviving Hurricane Andrew, which struck the Southern United States in 1992 and destroyed his family home and everything around it. Reﬂecting this, Daniel’s works are partially decayed and explore regeneration represented by real crystals that have been cast in bronze. The inclusion of the crystal forms alludes to alchemical change (the transformation of one substance into another), growth, and progression. A visit to Easter Island in 2011 where he encountered a palaeontology research expedition deepened his interest in archaeology and continues to inform his practice.

ysp.org.uk

Arsham

BRONZE ERODED ASTRONAUT

ROCK AND ROLLS

Malton-born celebrity chef James Martin is heading out on a UK tour - and you can expect live music as well as banging recipes created on stage

Celebrity chef James Martin will be celebrating a major landmark in 2025 when he heads out on the road with his all-new live tour. James’ ﬁfth tour will include his 100th live show and comes after four sold out tours that have seen him cooking on some of the most famous stages in the country.

In 2025, James Martin Live will see the popular TV chef and best-selling author visit 20 amazing venues across England, Scotland and Wales - including York and Hull this month - combining the perfect ingredients of mouth-watering dishes with his warm Yorkshire wit.

So how did James get to show 100? “I’d been doing live demos at food festivals for years, and was at the Good Food Show one year, when someone from Live Nation had been dragged along by their wife,” he explains. “I was always fortunate at events, my demos would be really popular and have full crowds and this guy couldn’t believe this half-hour stage show with food. He came up to me at the end and said you should take it on the road… And the rest is history. It’s funny, I remember, looking back, the incredible Keith Floyd said, ‘One day chefs will be rock and roll’ – and here we are.”

And in James’ case, that’s truer than for most as he combines the live cookery show with his love of music. “There have been a few chefs who have done tours, and even Ready Steady Cook did it 25 years ago, they haven’t all worked but it seems like something has clicked with my shows and that’s amazing,” he says. “We spend a lot of time in the pre-production phase, thinking about and planning what we are going to do. I have the same producer as the Strictly Come Dancing live tours, and we have a brilliant team on board from Live Nation and Cu e and Taylor.

“People ask what do the shows involve,” he continues. “It’s food, comedy, music and a great, great night out. And for four tours now, people seem to like it. Bringing that all together seems to be the secret recipe for success.”

The new tour is set to be a journey through recent retro food history, taking fans on a culinary exploration from the 50s through to the 80s, as well as a trip round the world – courtesy of James’ back catalogue of food travel shows.

“I started putting the show together with a blank piece of paper three months ago and now I’ve locked in about 80% of it,” James explains. “The show will feature all new recipes which we’ve been developing already – and all new stories from my career. The research has been fascinating, and the 50s had some bloody hilarious food.”

Alongside the food – all prepared in James’ own inimitable style, with recipes specially designed to make audience members’ mouths water – he also brings plenty of surprises to his live show. Previous tours have seen him build the ‘biggest and best bacon and cheese butty’, perform ‘surgery’ on a Barbie doll to create a Baked Alaska, and invite audience members to show o their tattoos.

But one common feature is the live music segment – and he’s already been working hard at it. “I’ve got a few good surprises planned,” he teases. “I’ve just had something delivered from eBay for the intro section of the show and will be having it pimped up ready to rock. There’s a theme that’s going

to involve a bicycle, which will run through the evening, and it’s going to be very funny.

“And then there’s the music! I have been rehearsing with the band for seven months already, just for that nine-minute segment, but that means once we’re on the road and doing the shows, I can really enjoy it. The music sections are always a real highlight.”

As if further proof was needed of James’ ‘rock n roll chef’ status, there’s one addition to this tour which he thinks seals the deal. “Every time we go out we make it better in every way – from visuals to content –and this time for the ﬁrst time, they’re giving me a tour bus, so I must be doing something right,” he laughs. “There is a kitchen on board, but I will not be using it.”

James cites the likes of Keith Floyd for breaking the mold of ‘matriarchal food lessons’ on TV – heading out on the road –as well as the Roux family for revolutionising the UK food scene at the highest level. But the show which made him a household name, Ready Steady Cook, also had a key role

in bringing high-end chefs to the masses, inspiring foodie families with their food bag tasks, creating tasty dishes under pressured deadlines on a tea-time telly slot.

“I’ll have been cooking on TV for 32 years by the time the tour comes round,” James reﬂects. “And food on TV has evolved a lot. Saturday morning used to be all about kids TV and look at it now – it’s all about food, and I’ve spent 18 years doing that. It’s a big chunk of a person’s life.

“People like food on TV for inspiration,” he adds. “In our o ce we talk through all sorts of ideas; food for a tenner, a ﬁver, but it’s not just about low-cost or ‘what can I do with a tin of beans?’. We look at anything from a £2 burger to a £400 3* Michelin meal… And those 3* chefs love a £2 burger from time to time!”

And when James is on the road, with an occasional day back at home to relax between shows, it’s those ‘normal’ meals he turns to too. “What do I cook on a regular day at home? Roast chicken. Easy,” he says without hesitation.

“As a chef, it’s a funny one; if you’re cooking for people at home, yes, you go and do your thing and get into the ‘process’. But if it’s just for everyday meals, most of us go for things like that – something simple but delicious.”

James Martin Live will be on at York Barbican on 21st February and Hull Connexin Live on 22nd February - tickets are on sale now via cu eandtaylor.com

HALIFAX 14 / 16 CORN MARKET HALIFAX, HX1 1TH

ILKLEY 2 THE GROVE

ILKLEY, LS29 9EG

STUPID JUST

Absolutely catches up with Ben Elton as he brings his UK tour to Yorkshire, and it’s a show we all need to pay attention to

Ben Elton’s always had a lot to say. You don’t write countless sitcoms (including Upstart Crow, The Thin Blue Line, The Young Ones and Blackadder), pen 16 novels, four West End plays and four musicals if you’re not an ideas guy. And it’s fresh ideas which have always driven his ground-breaking stand up comedy routines, plenty of which will be being explored in Ben’s brand new stand-up tour – his ﬁrst since 2019 (the previous one having been 15 years before that). The show’s called Authentic Stupidity, and it’s all about the ridiculous things we humans do and think.

“The tour title is a little joke about how we’re all saying that Artiﬁcial Intelligence is this great threat to humanity, which of course it is, but I reckon the biggest threat is actually Authentic Stupidity,” he laughs. “Never mind AI, let’s start by worrying about AS! But really all my tours could have been called Authentic Stupidity, because they’re always comic explorations

of the essential absurdity of existence. I think all good comedy is,” he explains.

“I’ve always done that in my routines. Sharing my own fears and joys and exasperations. Just being as funny as I can about the s*** that’s on my mind. Every part of my comedy is an exploration of human inadequacy,” he says, using Blackadder as one of his earliest examples “Blackadder thinks he’s so clever, but his vanity, his jealousy and his ambition screw him every time. We need to accept that we are not everything and that we don’t know everything. If we did that I think we’d do less harm to ourselves and to the planet. The world would probably be a lot nicer and safer if we all embraced our inner Baldrick!”

That’s not to say this is all misanthropy, though. “In some ways, the world is better now. I think younger people have started to accept that weakness is OK; that weakness is merely an acknowledgement that you might need help, that you aren’t necessarily the thing you want to be or that people expect you to be. All these things that we used to hide are coming out more.”

There are, of course, aspects of modern life that have emphatically not improved,

in his opinion. And while insisting he’s not a luddite, he’s acutely aware of where technology is going wrong. (His most recent novel, Identity Crisis, has some clever themes about how technology is deployed in the stoking of culture wars with nefarious intentions.)

“Personally, I would rather the internet wasn’t around because, although it’s ingenious and useful, it’s destroying democracy as we speak because we’re too stupid to tell the di erence between veriﬁable facts and undiluted arse porridge,” he says.

“And now we’ve invented AI, I mean how stupid is that? If a terrorist went on television and said, ‘We’ve come up with a machine that will literally make human beings redundant’, we’d send in MI5! We’d think this is a genuinely existential threat to the future of humanity. But because this is a bunch of tech bros and billionaires in California, we’re all just going, ‘Oh well, apparently it’s going to be able to write new Beatles songs.’”

So is he looking forward to his new tour? “Absolutely. Finding the funny has never been more important.”

“THE WORLD WOULD BE A LOT NICER IF WE EMBRACED OUR INNER BALDRICK”

Interestingly, Ben doesn’t think of himself as being a great comic performer; for him it’s all about his writing, which he’s repeatedly proven himself to be great at, ever since the cult sitcom The Young Ones hit BBC Two in 1982.

“Look, I think I can be pretty funny in my delivery, but it would be nothing without the material. I’m not a natural clown who can get a laugh just pulling a face.” He recalls taking his wife and then young children to the home of pal Rowan Atkinson, with whom he worked on Blackadder, The Thin Blue Line and Mr Bean

“Rowan was handing out the cakes and the cat was lurking nearby and appeared about to pounce. Rowan removed the fondant fancies and then without any knowledge of doing it, he did a little mime of an outraged cat,” he says. “For a moment, he inhabited the creature in front of him and the kids and us fell about. It was perfect. I couldn’t do that.

I could be funny in conversation, but my funny bones are all about the words.”

He’s doing himself down a bit though: he did a cracking job hosting the one-o revival of Friday Night Live – the variety showcase of comic talent – for Channel 4 in 2022. The show wouldn’t have won the Bafta against some sti competition if he wasn’t a great performer. The Guardian described his set as “bracingly topical and outspoken”.

It’s fascinating learning how a comedian’s early forays into stand-up can shape their persona. Those accustomed to today’s (relatively) polite audiences would blanche at the often-brutal atmosphere of the Comedy Store in London, where Ben – along with the likes of Rik Mayall, Adrian Edmondson, French & Saunders and Jo Brand – cut his teeth.

“Back then it was two shows a night, the early one at 10pm, then one at midnight, in a strip club in Soho. It was 1981, Brixton was in ﬂames, Thatcher was starting her ten-year war on society and sometimes audiences were tense and angry,” he explains.

“People weren’t tuned into what we now call alternative comedy, which I would describe as the comedy of ideas, where you use your own principles and beliefs to form

your own comedy. That’s certainly what I did. People were used to comedians who told jokes and part of the joke might be about dealing with hecklers, so there was this idea that that was what a comic did – they dealt with hecklers. I hate hecklers. I’ve never heard a witty heckle. They’re mythical.”

If you’re on stage trying to make a point, to deliver a complicated idea using a ri that’ll reach a satisfying conclusion, you need people to listen. How on earth do you do that with some drunk being authentically stupid? “I developed what was probably an overly combative style just to shut the idiots down,” he says. “It took me a long time to get out of the shadow of the gong.”

But over a lifetime of hugely successful stand up he’s learnt to have faith in audiences – partly because they’re now paying to see him speciﬁcally, unlike in those days when they’d show up and be presented with a line-up of unknowns. “I learnt not to trust them, thinking that, if I paused, someone would shout out,” he says. “I can pause a little bit now, but I still don’t pause much because I’ve just got too much to say.”

Visit benelton.live for future UK tour dates

BLACKADDER GOES FORTH

BEN WROTE AND DIRECTED MAYBE BABY

PHOTO: TREVOR LEIGHTON

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“THE PRIZE IS RETURNING IN A BIGGER AND BOLDER FORM”

script In the

News on The Women’s Prize for Playwriting returning and the role She eld Theatres is playing this year

The Women’s Prize for Playwriting, produced by Ellie Keel and Paines Plough, recently announced its return for 2025. This year sees the largest ever prize fund for WPP with a ﬁrst prize of £20,000. The judging panel for this year’s Prize will be chaired once again by incoming director and co-chief executive of the National Theatre, Indhu Rubasingham.

Launched in 2019, the Prize celebrates and supports exceptional female and non-binary playwrights, and campaigns for their plays to be presented on national stages in the UK and Ireland. The Prize is for a full-length

play (deﬁned as over 60 minutes in length), written in English. The First Prize-winning play receives £20,000 in respect of an option for Ellie Keel Productions, Paines Plough and She eld Theatres to co-produce the play.

She eld Theatres has been announced as ‘Theatre Partner’ for the 2025 Prize. Created with Artistic Director of She eld Theatres, Elizabeth Newman, this partnership means that She eld Theatres will have ﬁrst right of refusal to co-produce the world premiere of the prize’s winning play.

Chaired by Indhu Rubasingham, the judging panel will also include producer at Wessex Grove Emily Vaughan-Barratt, directors Milli Bhatia and Alice Hamilton, actress Romola Garai, literary agent Mel Kenyon, artistic director of Bristol Old Vic Nancy Medina, the National Theatre’s Director of New Work Nina Steiger, and Guardian editor-in-chief Katharine Viner. It has also been announced that The Women’s Prize for Playwriting has become a registered charity, and Charlie Coulthard will become literary manager.

Ellie Keel, founder director of The Women’s Prize for Playwriting, says: “I’m thrilled that the Women’s Prize for Playwriting is returning in a bigger and bolder form than ever, with a signiﬁcant increase in prize money and our ﬁrst Theatre Partnership with the brilliant She eld Theatres. These developments will allow

INDHU RUBASINGHAM

WPP to build on our track record of creating tangible and lasting change, not only for the careers of our winning playwrights but within the theatre industry as a whole. I’m delighted that Indhu Rubasingham is continuing as Chair of our exceptional judging panel, whose di cult task it will be to choose one winner in autumn 2025. This year we also took the step of becoming a registered charity to help secure the Prize's future for many years to come.”

Katie Posner and Charlotte Bennett, joint artistic directors of Paines Plough, added: “It’s a huge honour, in our 50th birthday year, to be announcing the fourth year of this playwriting prize with Ellie Keel. Since 2019 we’ve been consistently blown away reading so many thrilling plays, and we’re ready to be blown away once again. It is a privilege and a joy to lead this prize with Ellie and we can’t wait to now also work alongside the powerhouse that is She eld Theatres to discover and nurture

“WE CAN PLAY A CRUCIAL ROLE IN ADDRESSING GENDER DISPARITIES IN THEATRE”

more female and non-binary playwrights. Our continued work with the prize will set the tone for the next 50 years of Paines Plough’s work: to ﬁght for playwrights, for new writing, and for representation in the voices on stages around the country.”

Elizabeth Newman, artistic director of She eld Theatres, says: “I am thrilled we are becoming the Theatre Partner of The Women’s Prize for Playwriting. She eld Theatres has a long-standing reputation for being committed to producing exceptional new work and, as I begin my tenure as artistic director, I want to make it clear that we will continue this mission and develop our reputation of being an exciting place that fosters exceptional talent. As we begin to write the next chapter for She eld Theatres, we will focus on discovering, developing, and celebrating outstanding new plays written by women and non-binary playwrights. Being part of

the Prize o ers us the opportunity to play a crucial role in addressing gender disparities in theatre by o ering tangible support and recognition to those whose voices have been historically marginalised. Furthermore, and importantly, we aim to produce the winning play at She eld Theatres because, to make a lasting di erence to the momentum of a writer’s career (and to raise the proﬁle of women and non-binary playwrights), plays need to be put to an audience. This is the best way for a dramatist to learn and grow. The Women’s Prize led by Ellie, Katie and Charlotte has achieved incredible things since it was launched and I cannot wait for She eld Theatres to join this incredible endeavour. I am also very excited to share news soon of our ﬁrst co-production.”

Submissions will close on Tuesday 22nd April. womensprizeforplaywriting.co.uk

ROMOLA GARAI

ALICE HAMILTON

ICE, ICE baby

THE ICE SCULPTURE OFFERS A GLIMPSE INTO YORK'S RICH AND ICONIC

HISTORY

Absolutely has been given an early glimpse of what York’s Ice Trail holds in store over the weekend of 1-2 February

The ﬁrst glimpse of York’s much-loved Ice Trail hints at this year’s enchanting theme “Origins” and the creative storytelling that will transform York’s historic streets into an icy wonderland.

The sculpture o ers a glimpse into York’s rich and iconic history, beautifully captured in a frozen masterpiece. From a Roman shield to a Viking helmet, it showcases the city’s 2,000-year past. A chocolate bar evokes York’s sweet legacy, while a drifting ghost embodies York’s most haunted status. A majestic, frosty train symbolizes the city’s progress and adventure, and at the

centre, a Yorkshire Rose blooms proudly. This frozen tableau seamlessly weaves together diverse symbols, each telling its unique story of York in the language of ice.

Organised by Make It York, York Ice Trail is part of their commitment to facilitating world-class cultural and creative events. This year’s trail will feature 30 stunning sculptures, crafted by Icebox – the leading ice sculpture specialists in the UK and Europe. The dazzling ice sculptures will bring captivating tales to life. Each icy masterpiece tells a story of its own, from York’s rich heritage and moments of celebrations to creatures that lived long ago.

On display will also be an origin block of ice – how each ice sculpture starts

before Icebox’s team of professional ice carvers bring designs to life, creating the magniﬁcent sculptures for York Ice Trail. Visitors can also experience the thrill of live ice carving demonstrations at St Sampson’s Square from 12pm, where expert sculptors from Icebox will transform raw blocks of ice into works of art before your eyes. Throughout the weekend, the beautiful grounds of Middletons Hotel will be transformed into ‘The Sweeter Side of Life’. It will be a family-friendly showcase of four ice sculptures, including ‘Sweet Like Chocolate’ – a spectacular ice sculpture dedicated to the heritage of the hotel’s Sir Terry Alms Cottages. You’ll also ﬁnd ‘The Ice Wall’ where you can ‘freeze’ yourself for that perfect photo moment.

York BID have journeyed back 2.4 million years to the Ice Age. Five incredible animals, once thriving in the frozen era but now extinct, have been brought to life in stunning ice sculptures. What better way to honour these creatures of the cold than through dazzling ice art and to discover these frosty prehistoric wonders in York.

Sarah Loftus, managing director of Make It York, says: “With these stunning ice creations set to transform the city, we can’t wait to see the incredible artistry and imagination that will bring the Origins theme to life. We’re incredibly grateful to all the local businesses whose support makes the York Ice Trail possible. Their contributions are essential to bringing this beloved event to life, and we couldn’t do it without them.”

visityork.org/york-ice-trail

OF THE BEST

Yorkshire o ers couples the perfect backdrop for a Valentine’s to remember

From rolling countryside to historic landmarks, there’s no shortage of places where love can ﬂourish across Yorkshire. Here are ten of the most romantic spots in the county and what you and your signiﬁcant other can enjoy there.

CASTLE HOWARD

Nestled in the Howardian Hills, this stately home is one of the most iconic landmarks in Yorkshire. Castle Howard has been home to the Howard family for more than 300 years. Explore iconic architecture and beautiful interiors when you visit the House, including the Great Hall, which rises 70 feet into the air. The Gardens and Grounds at Castle Howard include lakes, follies, woodland, temples, and statues – all of which bring out the colour and drama of the four seasons. The grandeur of Castle Howard, with its sweeping gardens and ornate interiors, makes it a magical destination for couples.

PERFECT FOR COUPLES

Stroll hand-in-hand through the landscaped gardens, take a boat ride on the Great Lake, and enjoy afternoon tea in the Courtyard Café.

WHITBY

Whitby’s cobbled streets, dramatic cli s, and historic abbey create an atmosphere brimming with romance. As the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula, this coastal town has a touch of

mystery alongside its undeniable charm. Many ﬂock to Whitby for its boutique shops and quirky streets, where you will ﬁnd unique Whitby jet jewellery and other fascinating items.

The town is also home to several annual events including the Bram Stoker International Film Festival and the Whitby Goth Weekend. There are countless options for those interested in walking in the North York Moors National Park, as the cli top walks along the coastline are part of the Cleveland Way, and the Lyke Wake Walk ﬁnishes by nearby Ravenscar.

PERFECT FOR COUPLES

Share a portion of ﬁsh and chips by the harbour, climb the 199 steps to Whitby Abbey for breathtaking views, and take a romantic evening walk along the beach as the sun sets over the North Sea.

BOLTON ABBEY

Situated in the Yorkshire Dales, Bolton Abbey o ers serene beauty with its riverside trails and the ruins of a 12thcentury priory. At the heart of Bolton Abbey Estate lies the Priory Church and Ruins of an Augustinian Priory in its beautiful riverside setting. The land was gifted to the Augustinian canons by Alice de Rumilly in 1154. The canons lived and worshipped here until 1539 when the dissolution of the monasteries stripped the Priory of its assets. History

WHITBY ABBEY

BOLTON ABBEY

CASTLE HOWARD

lovers will enjoy the story of Prior Moone and how he negotiated with Cromwell to secure the nave as a place of worship for the local community and how the church continues to thrive to this day.

PERFECT FOR COUPLES

Cross the famous stepping stones hand-in-hand and explore the picturesque woodland trails together.

YORK

York is a city steeped in history and its centrepiece, York Minster, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The city’s winding streets, medieval walls, and vibrant atmosphere make it ideal for a romantic getaway.

York is a marvellously mysterious place, so make sure you join a tour to experience it at its best. You will pass

by famous landmarks and have some of their surprising secrets revealed; Bettys, Bootham Bar and York Minster to name but three. You’ll learn the unknown truths of York’s most infamous characters Guy Fawkes and Dick Turpin. Your savvy guide will point out treasures hidden in plain sight that even locals don’t know about; concealed courtyards, unusual statues, and curious artefacts that are so often simply passed by.

PERFECT FOR COUPLES

Climb to the top of York Minster’s central tower for panoramic views, take a leisurely boat ride along the River Ouse, and end the day with a candlelit dinner in one of York’s many ﬁne dining restaurants.

ROBIN HOOD’S BAY

This quaint ﬁshing village is a hidden gem along Yorkshire’s rugged coastline. Its

narrow streets and historic cottages make it feel like stepping back in time. The North Yorkshire coast and moorland is a haven for ﬂora and fauna. Whether it is birdwatching, rock pooling, looking out for sea mammals or admiring the diverse plants and ﬂowers that adorn the cli s, meadows, woods and moorland, there is much to enjoy outdoors in Robin Hood’s Bay and the surrounding area.

PERFECT FOR COUPLES

Explore the tidal rock pools, enjoy a cosy drink in a traditional pub, and watch the waves crash against the cli s from the coastal paths. For an extra dose of romance, visit during a quiet weekday when you can have the beach nearly to yourselves.

HAWORTH

The home of the Brontë sisters, Haworth, is a must-visit for literary lovers. Its cobbled streets and moorland scenery are straight out of a romance novel. In 2025, the Brontë Parsonage Museum will explore perceptions of Haworth, the Parsonage and surrounding moorland, starting with the exhibition ‘From Haworth to Eternity’. As ﬁlming begins for the most recent Brontë adaptation, Emerald Fennel’s Wuthering Heights starring Margot Robbie, the new exhibition will focus on how the many previous ﬁlm and TV adaptations of Charlotte, Emily and Anne’s novels have impacted the small Yorkshire village and will include letters, manuscripts, souvenir albums and items from the Museum’s drama archive.

PERFECT FOR COUPLES

Visit the Brontë Parsonage Museum, take a walk across the wild and romantic moors that inspired Wuthering Heights, and enjoy a traditional cream tea in one of the village’s charming tearooms.

ROBIN HOOD'S BAY

RIEVAULX ABBEY

Set in a tranquil valley near Helmsley, Rievaulx Abbey’s ruins are both haunting and beautiful. Discover Rievaulx Abbey's fascinating past and the lives of the monks who called the Abbey their home. Explore the elegant museum displaying previously unseen artefacts, which tell the story of the rise and dramatic fall of the ﬁrst Cistercian abbey in the North of England. Wander the extensive ruins of the abbey to discover more about the building. Take in the stunning views from the visitor centre from the tearoom and appreciate why St Aelred’s 'everywhere peace, everywhere serenity' description of Rievaulx Abbey could quite easily have been written today. This English Heritage site is perfect for a romantic day out steeped in history.

PERFECT FOR COUPLES

Wander through the ruins together, enjoy a peaceful walk along the nearby Cleveland Way, and have a picnic in the abbey’s serene surroundings.

NORTH YORK MOORS

For couples who love the great outdoors, the North York Moors o er a breathtaking escape. With heather-clad hills, dense woodlands, and expansive views, it’s an ideal place for adventure and solitude. And what is more romantic than staring up at the stars with your loved one? The North York Moors and the Yorkshire Dales National Parks’ Dark Skies Festival starts on 14th February and will be their tenth event since the ﬁrst one in February 2016.

PERFECT FOR COUPLES

Take a scenic drive or hike through the moors, ride the North Yorkshire Moors Railway on a vintage steam train, and visit charming villages like Goathland, known as the ﬁlming location for Heartbeat.

MALHAM COVE

This geological marvel in the Yorkshire Dales is a natural wonder that will take your breath away. Malham Cove is a huge curving amphitheatre shaped cli formation

“It is perfect for a romantic day out steeped in history”

of limestone rock. The vertical face of the cli is about 260 feet high. The top of the cove is a large area of deeply eroded limestone pavement, of a strange pattern rarely seen in England. The majesty of Malham Cove looks out over the village of Malham and has been attracting visitors for centuries. Gordale Scar is also one of the jewels in the crown of the National Park. The stunning hidden gorge at Gordale has wowed visitors for hundreds of years.

PERFECT FOR COUPLES

Walk up to the top of Malham Cove to see the stunning views, discover the hidden waterfall at Gordale Scar, and end your day with a hearty meal at a nearby country inn.

FOUNTAINS ABBEY

This UNESCO World Heritage Site combines history and nature in one spectacular setting. The abbey’s ancient ruins and the elegant water garden make it one of Yorkshire’s most romantic destinations. The garden at Studley Royal is one of the best surviving examples of a Georgian water garden in England. The elegant ornamental lakes, canals, temples and cascades provide a succession of dramatic eye-catching vistas.

PERFECT FOR COUPLES

Wander through the abbey ruins, admire the beautifully designed water features, and enjoy a quiet moment together by the Moon Ponds.

RIEVAULX ABBEY

NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS RAILWAY

MALHAM COVE

FOOD & DRINK

BOWLS of SOUL

SALTMOOR

Nestled between where the wild moors meet the sweeping sea, Saltmoore is a luxurious wellness-led sanctuary, home to beautiful interiors, fresh flavours and relaxation. At Saltmoore, they believe food is nourishment for the soul. A moment where time stands still in celebration of the flavours. They invite you to indulge in a feast for the senses, with seasonal menus curated by their Head Chef in collaboration with Consultant Chef Tommy Banks. saltmoore.co.uk

WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news

Wine recommendations for the month

By E.H. BOOTH

The Society's Argentine Malbec 2023

 £9.50

This is the ideal introduction to Argentine malbec. It has a forthcoming ﬂoral aroma with some black-fruit character and fresh palate. It's mainly from the Valle de Uco for aroma and intensity of ﬂavour with some Agrelo fruit for richness.

Undurraga Candelabro Chardonnay Leyda Valley 2023

 £8.95

Chilean chardonnay with a fresh appley aroma and ﬂavour from the cool Leyda Valley. This has been tank fermented and aged brieﬂy on its yeast lees to confer some richness on the palate.

A Fistful of Schist Chenin Blanc, Swartland 2024

 £7.25

Taken from old chenin vines in the heart of the Swartland this is an impressively complex South African chenin for the price, with crisp stone-fruit and tropical notes and a smooth mouthfeel with a crisp, fresh ﬁnish.

Booths has been importing quality wines since 1870, and the current curators of their awardwinning selection are Victoria and Rachael. Both use their expertise to oﬀer Booths’ customers a wide, eclectic range, value for money, and uncompromising quality. In 2024 they were voted Wine Supermarket of The Year in the People’s Choice Wine Awards, an award they value very highly as it’s voted for by customers.

TASTING

NOTES

Food news and the most exciting openings across Yorkshire

By MARK KEBBLE

Moon struck

THE IVY ASIA

The Ivy Asia Leeds invites guests to join in the dazzling celebrations of Lunar New Year with a culinary experience designed to delight the senses, as we welcome the Year of the Snake. With the stunning, theatrical surroundings and a lively atmosphere, diners can enjoy o erings that merge exquisite ﬂavours and vibrant traditions, all within the luxurious setting of The Ivy Asia Leeds, until 28th February.

Fresh appeal

JÖRO

JÖRO, the nationally celebrated restaurant renowned for its innovative Nordic/Japanese-inspired cuisine, has now opened the doors to its new home within the Oughtibridge Paper Mill development. The new dining destination, JÖRO 2.Ö, is in a beautifully renovated 19th-century paper mill. This expansion allows married co-owners Luke French and Stacey Sherwood-French to elevate their restaurant, previously housed at Krynkl, Kelham Island. jororestaurant.co.uk

Sustained success

PIGNUT

The team behind Helmsley’s Michelin-recommended restaurant is celebrating after winning a national award, claiming the Sustainable Business award for the second year in a row at The Sta Canteen Awards. Ingredients at Pignut are exclusively sourced from hyper-local businesses, and herbs, fruit and vegetables are picked by owners Tom and Laurissa themselves at Helmsley Walled Garden. restaurantpignut.co.uk

CUPBOARD LOVE

Three pantry essentials

BANHOEK CHILLI OIL

Winners of Great Taste Awards in 2023 and 2024, Banhoek's Original Chilli Oil and Garlic Chilli Oil are excellent additions to pretty much any dish for those of us who love chilli. Both oﬀer the perfect level of heat. banhoekchillioil.com

YUZU TRUFFLE HONEY

Acme Fire Cult's honey packs a powerful punch of Italian white truﬄe, backed by subtle hints of fresh Japanese yuzu. Try it with grilled lamb chops, fried chicken, or paired with cheeses. acmeﬁrecult.com

JOSÉ PIZARRO'S OLIVE OIL

José's new extra virgin olive oil is cra ed from Manzanilla Cacereña olives and produced using an advanced cold-extraction technique. It has a smooth, balanced ﬂavour proﬁle, with heady notes of freshly cut grass, green banana, apple, and tomato. josepizarro.com

STAR IN THE making

Chartwell, the new modern ﬁne dining restaurant at Aldwark Manor Estate just outside York, has been o cially added to the Michelin Guide Great Britain & Ireland, just seven months after its launch. Known for its playful yet reﬁned dining experience, Chartwell is recognised by Michelin for its inventive tasting menu and unique charm that complement its surroundings. aldwarkmanorestate.co.uk

FODDER Fodder is set to undergo its biggest revamp since opening in 2009, refreshing the shop and café as well as stocking even more Yorkshire suppliers than ever. After Fodder celebrated its biggest Christmas yet, the shop & café is now being prepared for a fabulous reﬁt. fodder.co.uk

CHARTWELL

“Our food is varied and complex in the sense we o er so many things”

For the LOVE of...

Bruce and Rebecca Elsworth are behind Elsworth at the Mill in Skipton. Absolutely discovers why the two perfectly complement each other

By MARK KEBBLE

Q When did you two ﬁrst meet and what was your ﬁrst experience of working together?

Rebecca: We knew each other from being local people, and we also knew each other from the industry as I used to work and manage places in the area, and Bruce worked at the Angel at Hetton. Hospitality is a small world. I was managing at the Devonshire Arms, Bruce was working at the Angel at Hetton. We didn’t work together properly until we opened our own restaurant. Someone quite prestigious within the industry had once said she would love it if we opened our own place, as it would be the kind of restaurant she would like to visit! So, eventually that’s what we did.

Q Bruce, you have worked in some fabulous restaurants. But when did you ﬁrst catch the cooking bug?

Bruce: I worked in kitchens from the age of 14, familiarising with a fast-paced kitchen

environment, and started o pot-washing. I then went for a job interview at a local hotel, where they told me to stand and decorate two large cakes, which I was very happy to do as I had done lots of baking with my mum previously. My second job was plucking and dressing around 30 pheasants in the back room, which in hindsight is a test on a young chef’s skills, and also to see if he has what it takes, but fortunately, the masses of the pheasants did not put me o ! The rest is history.

Q Over time, would you say you have developed a particular cooking style?

Bruce: Not particularly, your style changes with food trends, customer’s requirements, customer’s palette, experience, learning what sells and proﬁtability. Overall, modern British, but doesn’t follow a strict or set style. We always consider provenance and sustainability, as well as working with local suppliers as closely as possible. With the Mill now, we have the opportunity with our own events, we can revisit old styles, look at new styles and techniques, and have the opportunity to try new cuisines.

Q Rebecca, when did you ﬁrst start working in hospitality and what do you love about it?

Rebecca: I was ﬁrst working in hospitality when I was 11 or 12, in a pub/hotel, which sounds so young nowadays! I started o pot washing. I just loved the buzz of the hospitality industry, the people in hospitality, the varied roles, the fact every day is di erent, and you have to be a multi-tasker, which I like the organised chaos of. Meeting new people all the time, and listening to people’s stories and journeys, I ﬁnd it really interesting. I can’t see myself working in any other industry.

REBECCA AND BRUCE

Q When did you open Elsworth Kitchen in Skipton?

Bruce: 27th July 2018. It was time ultimately as we had worked in some of the best restaurants in the area, bringing our skill set and experience, and drawing on all our good and bad experiences to create a restaurant we know we would like to come to. In our own community of Skipton, we did get asked by many customers from previous roles who became friends, and past employers also encouraged us to open our own place. So, we were and are very fortunate to have our lovely community on our side.

Q How do you look back on the Elsworth Kitchen?

Bruce: With fond memories. Rebecca was very heavily pregnant with our daughter, Florence, and worked until ﬁve days after our due date! It was exciting and stressful at the same time. We also built up such a lovely, loyal customer base, who then became friends, who have now followed us through to the Mill.

Q Why was it time for something new?

Rebecca: Ultimately, our little girl turned ﬁve, and started school, which changed our family logistics. O the back of working through covid, and still growing the business, like many people we decided we needed to change our lifestyle to keep Florence our daughter at the forefront. Here, we can be more creative, and it enables us to be able to do more diverse events, and now we have launched our own cookery classes with Bruce, we can react to the market better and also have more freedom for creativity. Meanwhile, we can have more family time, and a more work life balance.

Q Why did High Corn Mill catch your eye?

Rebecca: Initially, we were looking for a small unit for Bruce’s other business, Good Energy Chef, which is a nutritional food business, and at the time, just post-covid, due to being a Skipton BID Director, the Chair at the time told us to come and have a look at the Mill. As soon as I walked into High Corn Mill, I felt immediately that people would love the space, and saw the potential for various events and people in it. I also saw potential for the use of the kitchen for Good Energy Chef, and the opportunity for a co-working o ce within the Mill. Usually Bruce reins me in on my mad ideas, but this time, he was all for it!

Q How would you describe the food on o er?

Bruce: Varied, in the sense that we cater for our own events, from a Supper Club, supplier evenings, demonstrations, ﬁne dining event, or a food & wine pairing evening; on the other hand, we cater for weddings, canapés, grazing tables, street food… There are never two days the same. Varied and complex in the sense we o er so many di erent things.

Q Tell us about the special food events you have hosted – and what’s to come in 2025?

Bruce: We have hosted a wide range of special food events, and one of our best-received events, and one of my favourite events, has been our Tour De Yorkshire Dinner Evening. For this evening, I put together a menu using 15 local, Yorkshire suppliers, and guests enjoyed celebrating and championing local produce. We invited two of the suppliers to come down and enjoy their produce on the menu, but also speak to guests and have the chance to promote their fabulous businesses.

Q What other events will you host?

Rebecca: We have many exciting events upcoming in 2025, including a Plant Based Supper Club and Mexican Supper Club, which have been highly requested, music nights such as Opera, Food & Wine Pairing events and everything in between. Our events are very diverse, as the space is so versatile, but we can’t wait to ultimately welcome our customers and see how much they enjoy the di erent events we host for them.

Q What are your hopes for 2025?

Rebecca: We have been extending our social media a lot, using new channels like TikTok, and Bruce has started his ‘The Dales Chef’ podcast on Dales Radio. This has been very well received, so we are deﬁnitely looking to expand this further, and expand Bruce’s business, Good Energy Chef, which we are very excited about. We are also excited to host more of our very exciting events, and welcome our customers, new and old, to enjoy our space with fantastic food, atmosphere and company.

elsworthatthemill.co.uk

Headingley Hall

Outstanding care in the heart of Headingley

Set within beautifully landscaped gardens, Headingley Hall offers a variety of care and support choices for people in later life.

We have options to suit all needs and all budgets from residential accommodation through to specialised dementia care suites, retirement apartments for sale or short-term respite stays.

“The care and support that my mother received during her time at Headingley Hall has been excellent. Staff were always ready to help, such a warm and friendly atmosphere. I would not hesitate to recommend Headingley Hall if asked.”

Pat, daughter of resident Independent Review on carehome.co.uk

“Diners are guaranteed to experience the genuine ﬂavours of Italy”

JSECRET ingredient

Wholesome and delicious Italian food is always on the menu at San Carlo

anuary may be over, but many of us are looking to keep up the healthy diet and are looking for some lighter options this month.

In true Italian style, San Carlo uses only the ﬁnest and freshest seasonal ingredients, allowing these to shine. From 22 spectacular seafood dishes to the freshest antipasti, unrivalled grill specialities such as the tomahawk steak and a broad range of masterfully prepared meat, pizza, and pasta recipes, these dishes are designed to engage all of your senses and are cooked to order by each restaurant’s individual team of talented chefs.

San Carlo’s menu embraces the essence of Italian cuisine, o ering dishes crafted with fresh, wholesome ingredients. Each recipe highlights the rich ﬂavours of Italy, with a focus on authentic and sustainable produce. The restaurant prides itself on sourcing ingredients from reputable Italian suppliers, ensuring the highest quality and true taste. San Carlo’s commitment to provenance guarantees that diners experience the genuine ﬂavours of Italy, bringing the heart of Italian gastronomy to your table with each delightful bite.

Healthy menu options include soups such as classic Minestrone or slow-cooked lentil and vegetable, while simple salads including chicken, tuna and bu alo mozzarella are perennial favourites. Pollo Marinato is a popular dish of ﬂattened chicken breast

with a caper, butter and lemon sauce, while Tonno e Lenticchie is a delicious charcoal grilled yellowﬁn tuna served with tomato lentils that goes well with baby spinach sauteed with garlic oil and chilli. Dessert spans delicious gelato and San Carlo’s famous pistachio or Italian style millefeuille cakes, tortes and mousses. All desserts are made daily in the patisserie kitchen. San Carlo also o ers more than 150 wines to suit all tastes and pockets. Salut!

Find your nearest San Carlo by

Diamonds speak louder than words

FASHION

Perfect PROPOSAL

BERRY’S JEWELLERS

A round brilliant cut diamond is the ultimate symbol of love and commitment, making it the perfect choice for a proposal. Renowned for its exceptional sparkle and timeless elegance, this classic cut maximises light reflection, creating unmatched brilliance. Whether set in platinum, white, yellow or rose gold, a round brilliant diamond ring captures the magic of the moment and ensures an unforgettable "yes". Discover the stunning range of diamond engagement rings at your nearest Berry’s boutique or online at berrysjewellers.co.uk

The Shoot 52 • Jewellery 55

LOVE

Kitri’s winter collection is made with sustainability at its heart, available to buy at Harvey Nichols Leeds

Star power

The best zodiac-inspired pieces, whatever your sign...

By CARLY GLENDINNING

LIONHEART

18K Yellow Gold and Diamond Pendant, £4,934 lionheartjewelry.com

BERRY'S JEWELLERS

18ct White Gold Grey Pearl & Diamond Pave Set Star Sautoir Necklet, £10,995 berrysjewellers.co.uk

EDEN PRESLEY

14K Yellow Gold and Diamonds Taurus Pendant, £1,530 edenpresley.com

ERIN FADER JEWELRY

14K Gold Fill Over Brass In The Stars Zodiac Necklace, £POA erinfaderjewelry.com

BRIONY RAYMOND

18K Yellow Gold Jumbo Aurora All Diamond Scorpio Zodiac Medallion, £5,491 brionyraymond.com

SHAHLA KARIMI

14K Yellow Gold and Diamond Aries Zodiac Reveal, £1,875 shahlakarimi.com

BERRY'S JEWELLERS

Berry’s OPEIA Collection 18ct White Gold Diamond Circle Sautoir Necklet, £52,995 berrysjewellers.co.uk

HALLEH

18K Yellow Gold and Diamond Cancer Zodiac Necklace, £5,150 halleh.com

AURELIA DEMARK

18K Yellow Gold, Blue Sapphire, and Ruby Grand Capricorn Pendant, £9,645 aureliademark.com

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Love in the air

JO MALONE

Jo Malone's Red Roses cologne is the essence of modern romance, inspired by a voluptuous blend of seven of the world's most exquisite roses. With crushed violet leaves and a hint of lemon, it unfolds like a bouquet of freshly cut flowers. jomalone.co.uk

TREAT loved ones

Treat your loved ones with eternal youth this Valentine’s Day with Dr Nyla Medispa

This Valentine’s Day, treat your loved one to a moment of self-care and rejuvenation. Dr Nyla Raja invites you to pamper that special someone with an advanced skin treatment plan at her renowned Medispa clinics. Known for transformative aesthetic treatments, Dr Nyla’s expertise and over 20 years of experience in aesthetics make her clinics the ideal destination for rejuvenation, conﬁdence, and radiant results. Tailored to meet the individual needs of every client, each treatment plan ensures your loved one feels valued and cared for in a safe, welcoming environment. Trusted by celebrities and clients alike, this is a gift that combines luxury, care, and lasting beauty.

“EACH

TREATMENT PLAN ENSURES YOU ACHIEVE DESIRED RESULTS IN A SAFE, WELCOMING ENVIRONMENT”

TRANSFORMATION FACELIFT™

Turn back time and rediscover your youthful glow with the award-winning Transformation Facelift™. This noninvasive treatment combines advanced technologies, including Ultherapy and radiofrequency to lift, tighten, and ﬁrm the skin. The result? A natural, refreshed appearance that enhances your features while and maintaining your unique

beauty. Ideal for those seeking to restore lost elasticity or combat early signs of ageing, the Transformation Facelift™ is a thoughtful gift that combines care and rejuvenation, o ering the ultimate way to help your loved one feel their best.

DR NYLA MEDISPA CHESHIRE

is located at Castlerock House, Wilmslow Road, Alderley Edge, Cheshire, SK9 7QL. Call 0162 552 3307 / 0800 009 6661 to book a complementary consultation, and visit doctornyla.com

TRANSFORMATION BODYLIFT

Conﬁdence isn’t just skin-deep. With the Transformation Bodylift, you can sculpt, tone, and tighten your body without surgery. Perfect for targeting areas like the stomach, thighs, or arms, this treatment uses cutting-edge technology to improve skin texture and contour your shape.

Whether you’re treating someone special or looking for a gift that inspires conﬁdence and self-care, the Transformation Bodylift delivers visible, conﬁdence-boosting results they’ll love.

TONE & TITE THERAPY

Say goodbye to stubborn areas of concern with Tone + Tite Therapy, a treatment designed to strengthen muscles, reduce fat, and tighten skin in just a few sessions. This non-invasive solution

uses high-intensity electromagnetic energy to tone your body from within. It’s the perfect gift for anyone wanting to feel their best and embrace selfconﬁdence this Valentine’s Day.

LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE

How SpineArt and the man behind it, Dr Dan Fagan, can o er treatment to cure all manner of back and spine issues

Dr Dan Fagan FRCS is a leading consultant spinal surgeon with over 25 years’ experience based in Yorkshire and the North East, who specialises in adult degenerative spinal conditions and minimally invasive spinal surgery. His work is focused at Circle Health Woodlands Hospital and Nu eld Tees Hospital.

He created his practice, SpineArt, in 2010 to help people with spinal problems with the empathy, consideration, and advanced techniques that successful treatment of these conditions demand. This is summed up by Dr Fagan as “choosing the right operation for the right condition at the right time” for his patients.

“From the ﬁrst point of contact with us, we see people quickly and no referral is necessary,” he explains. “Bev, my practice

manager, will guide patients through the process, and we have access to MRI scans and tests done elsewhere in the country which can be easily transferred. This is all underpinned by a modern electronic booking and records system making your patient journey as seamless as possible.” Safety and excellence is very important in your experience with SpineArt. Dr Fagan is a respected clinical leader and has been an advisor for the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE). He is currently a Clinical Chairman at Circle Health Group, which involves clinical service and governance development for spinal services at national level in his role as Chairman of the Spinal Steering Group. More recently he has completed the Circle Health Senior Leadership course and has a postgraduate degree in Executive Management from Liverpool Business School.

“There are some common misconceptions in the treatment of back pain and sciatica, the commonest of which is that continued exercise is beneficial and can cure all cases,” Dr Fagan continues. “Often back pain and sciatica gets better naturally within 6 to 12 weeks, but beyond that time exercise and even walking can cause persistent or worsening symptoms. Weight bearing exercise and the heel strike when walking or running causes axial impact force which radiates up the leg to the spine and causes pain in an inflamed disc or nerve root. In my practice, we use specific exercise and rehabilitation techniques to minimise spinal pain and inflammation, in conjunction with interventional treatment.”

People who have already been seen by a physiotherapist for their pain and might be waiting for an appointment with their GP, or on the waiting list for an NHS consultation, may be interested in ﬁnding out how the advances in spine surgery can help them to get back to a full life.

“People who have sciatica and back pain need a diagnosis,” Dr Fagan states. “There are di erent reasons for the pain and a range of di erent treatments. We have the equipment and the expertise, right here at Circle Woodlands, to be able to o er patients the most cutting-edge treatment for conditions that can prevent them living their best lives.

“In my practice we can solve all manner of spinal conditions including neck pain due to spondylosis (or wear and tear), trapped nerves in the neck, lumbar spinal pain and sciatica due to a slipped disc, and osteoporotic fractures in older patients or impaction fractures in championship jockeys and sportsmen.”

If you would like to arrange a consultation, please contact Beverley Johnston on 07539330360 or email secretary@ spineart.org. For more information or to book online, visit spineart.org

DR DAN FAGAN

“I thought feeling stiff and tired was just part of being 53...”

Is this how you feel?

What if:

• Stiff joints didn’t slow you down?

• Pain wasn’t a daily battle?

• You felt stronger, more energised and unstoppable?

The only thing standing between you and a body that works for you is this moment. Scan the QR code to take the first step today.

3-DAY BODY RESET & REBALANCE

The FREE 3-Day Body Reset & Rebalance Challenge is a live online event with Sarah Clough, Pilates Teacher and founder of The Vitality Blueprint.

Her holistic approach uses movement to empower women of all fitness levels. In the Challenge she addresses the underlying causes of discomfort, low energy, aches and pains and reveals how to improve posture, increase core strength, enhance flexibility and regain ease of movement in a way that is simple, effective and enjoyable.

Spaces are limited.

Book now www.thevitalityblueprint.com/challenge

“At 57, I’d resigned myself to slowing down - but this program completely changed my mindset and my body. Now, I’m stronger, happier, and loving life again!” – Linda, 57

TOP PICKS

THREE FOR AT HOME TRAINING

ONYX

The Onyx 'The Works Set' seriously ups your workout game. As stylish as it is supportive, I went for a springy 8mm yoga mat in powdery blue with a matching ball, weights, blocks, and resistance bands, £234.93. onyx-ﬁtness.com

WIT TRAINING

Specialist training brand WIT has launched its debut apparel line. The four piece capsule collection includes this classic ﬁt crop training tank, which is so comfy you'll be wearing it on-repeat, £34. on-running.com

FITNESS NOTES

By CARLY GLENDINNING

INTOTHE FOLD

Carly Glendinning tries FOLD, a brandnew at-home foldable reformer bed

R.A.D®

As versatile as they are stylish, the R.A.D ® ONE trainer is cushioned for plyometrics, stabilised for li ing, durable enough for rope-climbs, light-weight enough for gymnastics – all whilst being comfortable enough to wear as a daily trainer, £130. rad-global.com

Reformer Pilates has massively blown up in the past year, with studios popping up faster than you can say “upside down elephant”. Some are so exclusive, you have to get up at the crack of dawn to book a space, and it’s not uncommon for a single class to set you back £30. Taking place on a bed-like machine, we’re all crazy for the full-body workout – which promises strength, ﬂexibility, coordination, and a honed physique. Getting out for classes isn’t easy though when you’re a toddler mum, so I’ve been practising Pilates every day at home instead. I’ve seen

great results on the mat, but recently I’ve been feeling ready to take my workouts to the next level. Enter the newly launched ‘FOLD’ reformer bed. Beautifully crafted from premium Canadian maple wood and upholstered in sleek beige or black leather, this seriously stylish piece of equipment o ers a studio-quality workout in the comfort of your own home. The compact design is a huge part of the appeal, and as the name implies, it’s easy to fold and stow away. My FOLD bed arrived pre-assembled and all I had to do was attach the head and shoulder rests, loop bars, and the padded double loop straps. Also included was a box, jumpboard and a starter bundle

with a Pilates mat, Pilates circle, Pilates ball, 1kg dumbbells, plus three months complimentary access to the FOLD app. The app features workouts for every level – from beginner to advanced. It’s super easy to use and the expert instructors make the workouts fun. There’s also the added beneﬁt of being able to chat to other members of the FOLD founding community. I’ve been hooked from the get-go, and I’ve used my bed so much that I’ve actually hardly needed to ‘FOLD’ it away at all.

Original FOLD Reformer bed £1,899.99; access to the FOLD app £9.99pm after initial three months. foldreformer.com

LIFE to the FULL

Exploring high quality care in Yorkshire

A

t Chocolate Works, Harcourt Gardens, Seacroft Grange and Seacroft Green in Yorkshire, Care UK’s highly trained teams are experts in providing high quality care from residential, nursing and dementia care, to short term care.

A LIFESTYLE

TAILORED TO YOU

At their homes, the teams are passionate about supporting you to enjoy a fulﬁlling life. They’ll learn all about your interests and preferences so they can create a fully personalised lifestyle plan that you’ll enjoy; whether it’s quizzes, cheese and wine socials or intergenerational activities.

LUXURY LIVING

Care UK’s Yorkshire homes o er luxurious facilities, such as a co ee shop, hair salon, cinema room and a pub. Their team are passionate about providing high-quality food and there’s always a choice of nutritious and delicious dishes at every meal.

TRUST THEM TO CARE

Chocolate Works, Harcourt Gardens, Seacroft Grange and Seacroft Green in Yorkshire are part of Care UK, the country’s most awarded large care provider. They’ve been delivering high-quality, person-centred care for over 40 years. That’s why over 9,000 families trust them to care for their older loved ones.

To ﬁnd out more about Chocolate Works, Harcourt Gardens, Seacroft Grange or Seacroft Green call 0330 029 6846

Chocolate Works care home, Bishopthorpe Road, York, Yorkshire, YO23 1DE

Harcourt Gardens care home, Harcourt Road, Harrogate, Yorkshire, HG1 5NL

Seacro Grange care home, The Green, Seacro – Leeds, Yorkshire, LS14 6JL

Seacro Green care home, The Green, Seacro – Leeds, Yorkshire, LS14 6PA

careuk.com/yorkshire

SEACROFT GRANGE

INTERIORS

ART COLLECTOR

WONDERING PEOPLE X ROOST

Wondering People is an art collective described as ‘shaking up the art world’. They’ve sourced original and editioned works by up-and-coming British and international artists, creating a platform for discovering unique pieces. It’s a discerning curation of artworks, each chosen for its distinctive aesthetic and approach. theroost.com

NOTES INTERIORS

Ideas, designs and styles for your home

By PENDLE HARTE

TILE S TORY

Quorn Stone have opened the doors to their 7th showroom in Harrogate, nestled just o of the bustling high street, in the Montpellier Quarter. Home to their extensive collection of natural stone and porcelain tiles, customers can expect a warm welcome with large ﬂoor and wall displays, hand samples to take away, and expert sales advisors to hand.

Plan your visit at mystoneﬂoor.com

PRIDE OF PLACE

THE ROOST

The Sandra placemats have an intricate design that brings a touch of timeless sophistication to any tabletop. Each piece is handcra ed by talented artisans in the tiny town of Usiacuri, Colombia. theroost.com

QUORN STONE

COSY CORNERS

RICHARD GRAFTON INTERIORS

Richard Gra on's newly refurbished Ilkley showroom highlights an elegant composition of textures and colours. The throw pictured, available in a variety of colours, creates a perfect balance of vibrancy and comfort. Their showroom is laid out with carefully curated room sets that give you a unique feel. richardgra oninteriors.com

TAKE FIVE

Butter dishes

Haines Butter Dish, £39.99 la-gent.com

&KLEVERING

Sketch Butter Dish, £40 scp.co.uk

FRENCH FANCY

TIFFANY

Tiffany's new dinnerware revives 'Comtesse de Grignan', a Tiffanyexclusive porcelain pattern that appeared as early as 1961. tiff any.co.uk

MORE KITCHENS

Fusing modern and classic materials like quartz countertops with natural wood can transform your kitchen into a transitional style, striking a balance between classic and modern design elements. The layout should cater to the needs of streamlined modern living, with colour schemes that blend pops of colour with elements like textured wood ﬁnishes. morekitchen.co.uk

JUDY CAPLIN CERAMICS

Teal Glaze Butter Dish, £40

CASA BY JJ

Bobble On Butter Dish, £38 casabyjj.com

ALICE CRAWLEY

ASIAN FUSION

Alice Crawley’s new rug collection for Layered takes inspiration from Hong Kong and Saigon, with a touch of the British country house

By EVE HERBERT

Arecurring theme for Swedish design brand Layered’s new collection by British interior designer Alice Crawley is bamboo. It’s a material Alice frequently returns to in her projects and which has become a signature in her design aesthetic. This fascination is clear in the collection’s patterns, where the bamboo silhouette has been integrated in two di erent ways – both as an elegant border and as a more abstract pattern.

Alice Crawley is a distinguished interior designer with a background in fashion from Saint Martin’s and 14 years of experience living in Hong Kong and Saigon. Her design philosophy is based on the belief that every room should have a unique character and life. Alice’s work is renowned for blending Western aesthetics with Eastern design, bringing originality and vibrancy to every space. “I remain inspired by the decade I spent living in Hong Kong and Vietnam,” says Alice. “The patterns and themes revolve around my love for all things chinoiserie and bamboo, blending Asian design elements with English heritage style. I have also taken inspiration from my beloved antique Chinese daybed, which has been reinterpreted as a border on our Indochine rug,” she adds. Together with Layered, Alice has worked to create a cohesive capsule collection

that represents the Anglo-Asian style. Alice strategically utilises the colour palette to create a balance of muted and bold tones. The colours have been carefully selected to bring life and character to each environment without overwhelming it.

“Throughout the process, I learned so much about weaving techniques and how texture can carry design details as beautifully as colour. I felt like a kid in a candy store when I visited Layered’s headquarters and showroom in Stockholm, diving into their fantastic colour library and feeling all the textures,” says Alice. “I spent a lot of time working with the colours, combining muted blues and pinks with rusty reds and woody browns to create a calm but distinct e ect that works in most settings.

“Designing my own rug collection has always been a dream, so when the opportunity to collaborate with Layered arose, I couldn’t let it pass,” she adds.

“I’ve long admired their exceptional collections, commitment to quality, and their ability to o er accessible price points. Working closely with their design team was an incredibly rewarding experience. Together, we reﬁned my ideas into a

Dragon,” Alice smiles. “The tea house is surrounded by bamboo forests, and the way the light shone through the bamboo shoots always mesmerised me. I used to think how amazing it would be to design a print or pattern based on this abstract and beautiful scene from nature.”

The collection o ers a rug for everyone, with interesting and usable colour combinations. From the calm and simple Indochine rug to the versatile Bamboo Stripe and the geometric Bamboo Forest, there is something for every room and occasion. For the Bamboo Stripe and Bamboo Border rugs, a cut pile was chosen for a sharp and clean ﬁnish. The Indochine rug has a contrasting border pattern of tufted loops in a slightly higher pile. “I’m thrilled with the end result of this collection,

“I felt like a kid in a candy store when I visited Layered's HQ”

cohesive capsule collection that captures the essence of my style, blending SouthEast Asian inﬂuences with English heritage. Throughout the process, I’ve gained invaluable insights into weaving techniques and the importance of texture in design, as it can be just as impactful as colour.”

A major source of inspiration for the collection has been Alice’s memories from walks with her dogs on Sunset Peak in Hong Kong, where she passed a magical old Chinese house surrounded by bamboo forests. The light shining through the bamboo shoots inspired Alice to create patterns based on this beautiful natural scene. “It literally is like something out of Crouching Tiger Hidden

having journeyed from moodboards to ﬁnal samples to create rugs that feel both elegant and playful, bold yet calm,” Alice says. “While the designs make strong use of colour, they remain versatile and practical. My guiding principle was to avoid creating anything ‘too cool’ or overly arty; if I couldn’t envision how or where to use a rug in my own home or design projects, it simply didn’t make the cut. I believe there’s truly a rug for everyone in this collection. From the calm simplicity of Indochine to the versatile Bamboo Stripe, which could work anywhere, I’m conﬁdent these pieces will bring character and warmth to any space.”

layeredinterior.com

RADIATE STYLE

The Tile Company highlight why radiators are now much more than simply a means to heat the home

Radiators are changing the heating game up and down the country with all kinds of properties boasting a sleek heating system nowadays, which are a seamless part of your interior design style.

Jordan O'Neill, director at local trusted family business, The Tile Company, explains: “There’s more than one reason to invest in radiators for your home. From the stylistic beneﬁts to unbeatable heat output, designer radiators do it all, and look damn good while they’re at it.”

THEY WON’T BREAK THE BANK

Don’t let the name scare you. Radiators look a million dollars, but (thankfully) they don’t cost that much. Obviously they will cost you more than your standard run of the mill plain white rad, but for the quality and look you get out of them, it’s worth it. In fact, radiators are surprisingly a ordable, especially with the great choice at The Tile Company.

SPACE SAVING GENIUS

For those of you with hard to furnish spaces, radiators are your saving grace. Whether your space has weirdly angled walls, or large furnishings that don’t leave much wall space for your rad, you won’t be left out in the cold. Radiators come in a wide range of sizes, from vertical designer radiators to ﬁt any narrow space to horizontal designer radiators.

TRY CONTEMPORARY RADIATORS

If your space is modern and on-trend, then contemporary radiators are just what you need to complete your room. These stylish radiators o er subtle designs to e ortlessly blend in with the rest of your home decor, or a statement colour or design to act as a feature furnishing.

DESIGNER BATHROOM RADIATORS

These trendy rads aren’t just reserved for your living room or bedroom. Designer bathroom radiators can give you that same stylish ﬁnish, in a bathroom-friendly design.

FOR INDUSTRIAL FINISHES

Column radiators o er an alternative to sleek modern designer radiators, helping add the classic, edgy ﬁnish you’ve been looking for. Stylish and individual, they’re popular alternative to cast iron radiators. Ideal for those who want to create a stripped-back, industrial look for their home. Beautifully made from mild steel and available in a range of designs, ﬁnishes and sizes.

FOR A SIMPLE STYLE

Radiators don’t all have to be show-stoppers and statement pieces. For a more simple style, traditional radiators complement a subtle interior with style and ease.

The Tile Company is your premier destination for high-quality radiators, with six showrooms in York, Northallerton and Scarborough. Brochure available showing stock available and in store.

01904 415527 thetilecompany.co.uk houseofheating.co.uk

SHADES

By PENDLE HARTE

Sleep in STYLE

Carpe Diem Beds unveils new releases to continue the narrative of luxury, comfort, and innovation

HÄLLSÖ WALNUT

“The new Iconic Collection transcends the ordinary, where luxury meets functionality,” says Helen RK Jensen, VP Brand, Carpe Diem Beds

Asigniﬁcant moment for all interior lovers and sleep enthusiasts is here now as Carpe Diem Beds has launched their most extensive collection to date. The unveiling goes beyond the introduction of The Iconic Collection, encapsulating an array of bespoke o erings that redeﬁne the essence of luxury, comfort and innovation.

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.

MEET THE NEW ICONS: KUNGSÖ AND HÄLLSÖ

ELEVATING THE EXPERIENCE WITH NEW FABRICS

In the 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.

INTRODUCING THE ICONIC COLLECTION

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

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 has launched 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 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.

CARPE DIEM BEDS REDEFINES LUXURY

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

RIVÖ HEADBOARD IN KVADRAT FABRIC

VINDÖ

TALKING HEAD 82

DYSLEXIA TESTING 91 RELATIONSHIPS 94 A-LEVEL CHOICES 98 NEWS & VIEWS 103

SHEFFIELD GIRLS' GDST

This Easter Sheffield Girls’ welcomes new Head, Alex Wilson. An award-winning character education scheme and top academic outcomes are just a part of the story at the all-girls school where pupils from age 4-18 are celebrated as individuals and the co-curricular and leadership programme offers opportunities for all.

Discover more by visiting sheffieldhighschool.org.uk

WARM WELCOME

This Easter She eld Girls’ GDST will be welcoming Alex Wilson as their new Head. Absolutely sat down with her to ﬁnd out more

I AM HUGELY EXCITED TO BE RETURNING TO MY ROOTS IN ALLGIRLS EDUCATION

ALEX WILSON

Q Could you give us an overview of your career in education to date?

A I began my career as a new teacher in an all-girls boarding school in Ascot. During six wonderful years there I went from class teacher to Head of Department and was a House Mistress as well. It was 24/7 as I lived in the Sixth Form boarding house and as a recent graduate I enjoyed the challenge of balancing my relationships with the girls who were not all that much younger than myself. I loved my time at the boarding school, but after getting married and moving to London I was lucky enough to be o ered a role at my alma mater, North London Collegiate. I enjoyed 18 years at the all-girls school and took on a range of roles during that time. I started as a class teacher of Religious Studies & History then became Head of Department. In the following years I was also an Assistant Section Head, Exams Assistant and Timetable Lead and then spent six years as Pastoral Deputy Head. I was Acting Head at NLCS at the time I secured my ﬁrst Headship at Hull Collegiate –now Tranby – School in East Yorkshire in 2018.

I was born in Lancashire and, as a lover of the great outdoors, I was delighted to return

THE SCHOOL’S MISSION IS TO TEACH GIRLS EVERYTHING SO THEY CAN BE ANYTHING

to the North. It has been great to experience life in a co-ed rural setting and grasp the challenges and opportunities a orded in such a di erent educational market compared to central London. I’m hugely excited to be taking up my next Headship at She eld High School for Girls and returning to my roots in all-girls education.

Q What attracted you to taking over the headship at She eld Girls’?

A I hadn’t been actively looking for a new role, but had casually discussed with my husband what my ideal next step might be in the future. One weekend he’d asked me which

school I would consider moving to and I spoke in general terms about returning to my roots in an all-girls school which carefully balances academic success with care for the individual and the development of conﬁdence. In my own mind She eld Girls’ was my top choice. Imagine my reaction when less than 24 hours later the phone rang about the post at the school – it felt like it was meant to be!

She eld Girls’ has a phenomenal reputation for its academic success, its focus on character education and its commitment to pupil wellbeing. This is underpinned by its mission to ‘teach girls everything so they can be anything’. The school values of positivity, courage and kindness resonate so deeply for me, as it is that kindness and positivity which brought me into teaching in the ﬁrst place and I’m excited to see this in action in the corridors and classrooms around school. The school was ranked ‘Top Independent Secondary School in the North’ and named ‘Prep School of the Year’ in 2023, so I am delighted and excited to be taking up this role and supporting the pupils, sta , parents and wider school community as we continue on this incredible journey.

beechhallschool.org

I WANT TO REALLY UNDERSTAND WHAT’S IMPORTANT TO ALL THE PUPILS

Q When did you ﬁrst visit the school and what were your ﬁrst impressions?

A I was able to enjoy a day at She eld Girls’ during the Summer Term last year, which galvanised my eagerness to join the team and be part of the future of the school. It is a beautiful cluster of buildings on a nineacre site in the leafy suburb of Broomhill in central She eld and enjoys an enviable range of facilities. I saw classes that were full of happy, engaged pupils, and was struck by their willingness to ‘have a go’ and risk failure in order to learn along the way. Pinned to many classroom doors was the sign “Mistakes are welcome here” which I think demonstrates the environment at the school where pupils are encouraged to challenge, to explore and to be curious. I met groups of teachers who were clearly passionate advocates for their subjects and who are adept and inspiring a similar interest in their students. I met with groups of girls who were conﬁdent to speak openly and honestly about their individual experiences at school and

to share candidly their own expectations for their next Head. It was great to experience such a warm and friendly welcome, and I instantly felt at home.

Q What parts of school life are you most looking forward to getting involved with?

A I’m not a Head who likes to be sat in my o ce, I like to be out in school walking the corridors and popping into classes. I am looking forward to learning about every area of She eld Girls’ as I take up the role of Head after Easter. It goes without saying that I’m excited to be joining such a great team of sta , but I intend to also know

every one of our 700+ pupils individually and by name – really understanding what’s important to them and ﬁnding opportunities for them to share with me their thoughts, ambitions and concerns. As someone who loves to be outdoors and who values the importance of extra-curricular activities, I will also be volunteering to contribute to the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expeditions.

Alex Wilson will be hosting She eld Girls’ Senior School Spring Online Open Evening on 18th March 2025. Register via she eldhighschool.org.uk

TRY, TRY

again

Ireland rugby international Donncha O'Callaghan was inspired by his own track record of embarrassing scrapes for the plotline in his new children’s book

Well, he may be a rugby legend – part of the Six Nations Grand Slam of 2009, with four British & Irish Lions caps and 17 seasons for Munster under his belt – but Donncha O’Callaghan is also celebrated among those who know him for disasters on the domestic front. So, when it came to a ﬁtting subject for his new children’s novel, he had plenty of material. In fact, you could say that Disaster Dad is art imitating life.

“I’ll be honest with you,” he says. “It is more truth than ﬁction. That was probably the idea for it.” He is refreshingly frank about the embarrassing fails that have punctuated life o the pitch – and, he says, his kids relish that side of him. “For all of my life, I’ve managed to get into embarrassing situations. Since my kids have arrived, they see the absolute joy in having an embarrassing dad.

“I know it will come, the day when they turn purple and run away from it, but at the moment my own kids have probably heightened my sense that it’s OK to be a little bit silly, to get things wrong – to meet them on their level,” he says. “Embarrassing things happen and when they see it happening to you they learn it’s OK to laugh at yourself.”

Disaster Dad distils that into a comic romp of a read. Our narrator is Finn, son

of a rugby playing father who is – to put it mildly – challenged by the practical aspects of life. Mum is the capable one, so when she goes on a trip to Boston and leaves dad in charge of Finn, Emma and Carl the dog for a whole seven days, it’s not a question of what can go wrong, but how much, how often, how bad.

From the smudged and illegible master plan (that would have told them everything required to make it through the next seven days in one piece) to a wild kitchen decorating plan, it’s a comedy of fails. Then there’s Operation Birthday Surprise. While Mum intervenes by text from Boston to ask Finn to ensure his dad doesn’t build the treehouse she made the mistake of saying she wished

she’d had when she was a child, she does return to a garden full of noisy chickens – something she never ever yearned for. As she says to Finn when he hugs her in the airport arrivals hall: “You survived!”

While the child characters of the novel are not Donncha and Jenny O’Callaghan’s – they have two daughters and two sons – that spirit of 'in it together' in Disaster Dad is deﬁnitely something carried over from their home life.

“We’re kind of run like a team,” he says. “Jenny and I call the shots, but we have their backs as well.”

While Donncha O’Callaghan’s rugby career gave him a place in Ireland’s hall of fame, and he has attracted more fans as an RTÉ 2fm’s breakfast show presenter and a coach on the TV show Ireland’s Fittest Family, he believes that for children, the really important heroes and role models are those closest to them.

“Of course I wanted to play for Ireland, but it wasn’t an aspiration,” he says.

“I wanted to be like the boy who won the Senior Cup, who was only maybe ﬁve years older. If you’d told me I’d play for Ireland I’d have said 'I can’t get there'.” Similarly, his own children have been just as excited about a recent Irish schools' hurling competition at last year’s Olympic and Paralympic Games because they are in awe of the achievements of young people. Of course, as children of a rugby great,

there’s sometimes the expectation that the junior O’Callaghans will be sporting standouts – but that’s never their father’s expectation or hope. “I just want them to go out and have fun and enjoy it,” he says. As to whether he’d encourage them to try for the world of elite sport, the answer is yes –but with a caveat. “Of course, if you want to make it in sport, great, but you’ve got to be a champion too at school, in your work.”

His own children are of an age where they can laugh about the things that go wrong. That’s good – he says – it’s important for children to understand getting it wrong is nothing to worry about. “You don’t want to shield or guard them – there’s a big bad world out there as well – but there’s also the importance of making it light and making it fun and making a brilliant childhood.”

Donncha O’Callaghan is happy to be the butt of the comedy in Disaster Dad, but he also knows that humour can help children pick themselves up, and learn to try, try again. “Be resilient, always back yourself,” he says. “That’s a kind of mantra around our house. Give it a go, back yourself. If you fall short, fair enough, but we always encourage them to have a go.”

Disaster Dad, by Donncha O'Callaghan, written with Karen Owen and illustrated by Jenny Taylor, is published by Bonnier Books, £11.99

PHOTO: BARRY MCCALL

provide safe environments that encourage independent, open-ended, and natural learning. Our ‘planning in the moment’ approach allows children to choose where, what, and how they play. This autonomy helps them become deeply engaged in their play and make signiﬁcant progress. For example, in our Reggio-inspired ‘Atelier’ arts area, children are not given a set theme, but are encouraged to explore their own creativity with materials such as wood, paint, clay, and textiles.

A NATURAL APPROACH

Karen Kilkenny, Head of Chapter House and Queen’s Kindergarten, discusses their natural spaces and child-led authentic learning

When you step into our Early Years setting, you’ll see happy, curious children who look forward to coming to school each day. We believe that children learn best through an inquisitive and exploratory approach. Play, for our youngest learners, is not just fun; it is a serious tool for development. We love watching children challenge themselves, work together, communicate, negotiate, lead, follow, and, most importantly, laugh together. Our EYFS teachers and practitioners have a deep passion for Early Childhood education. They understand that the experiences and relationships children

form in these early years are fundamental to shaping the rest of their lives. Positive relationships are central to our approach, and we continually work to set the stage for meaningful learning and connections. One approach that has inspired us is the Reggio Emilia method, which views the child as inﬁnitely capable. This has helped our children surpass the personal, emotional, and social development milestones of previous cohorts.

Through research and trial, we have gained valuable insights into early brain development, the importance of healthy attachment, and the interconnectedness of developmental areas. We have also discovered how crucial authentic learning is for young children. We constantly audit our play spaces to ensure they

Our indoor spaces are noticeably di erent from typical EYFS settings. Gone are the plastic toys and pre-made playdough pots, replaced by calming, natural environments with wooden furniture, soft furnishings, and a welcoming atmosphere. These spaces act as a ‘third teacher’, creating a nurturing, magical environment that fosters exploration and learning.

We focus on key EYFS skills like communication, language, literacy, mathematics, understanding the world, and personal development. Children have repeated opportunities to practice and master these skills through play, with ambiguous resources allowing them to interpret and engage with their experiences in a meaningful way.

Outdoor learning is a core element of our approach. We believe that spending time in nature is essential for children’s well-being. Our outdoor environment is one big play space. Afternoons spent in our onsite forest, where children follow their interests by climbing trees and building dens, are the highlight of their week.

Chapter House, for children aged 3 months to Year 5, is part of Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate. Known for its state-of-the-art facilities and excellent extra-curricular programmes, the school was rated ‘Outstanding’ in all EYFS areas in 2023. Queen’s Kindergarten was also named a Top 20 nursery for Yorkshire and the Humber in 2024.

Visit qe.org/chapter-house or email admissions@qe.org to book a tour. Alternatively, attend the school Open Morning on Saturday 8th March

Smarter TESTING

Launched in September last year, Talamo is a dyslexia screening test that is a ordable, scalable and accurate – a game changer for earlier diagnosis

Jamie Wace had a patchy time in education and then, at 15, he got a private dyslexia screening test at the suggestion of his school and discovered he had dyslexia. He says this was a “Genesis moment” that changed his own approach and educational outcome. “My motivation was really poor, so I didn’t work very hard,” he says. But once he knew he was wired a bit di erently, it changed his mindset.

“I took charge of my own learning.”

Fast forward a few years and Jamie was thriving in Fortune 100 companies working in technology. Then he stumbled back across dyslexia as a topic and, when he looked at the technology still being used in the ﬁeld, he felt there was potential to do things di erently and improve outcomes for young people and their parents, while also supporting hardworking schools and their SENCO teams.

One huge problem identiﬁed was the cost and availability of testing – waiting lists are

long and assessment tests typically range from £350-£1,000. These two factors mean many children don’t get checked as early as they should, and this a ects self-esteem and school success. There are also those who may be harder to spot – as Jamie could testify from his own late diagnosis. “One statistic jumped out at us – which is that 80% of dyslexic students don’t have their diagnosis before they leave school,” he says. “This was a bit of a lightbulb moment.”

He and co-founders Sophie Dick (an entrepreneur with a background

“It’s trying to take something that was reserved for the few and put it across as a universal right”

in designing for companies such as Delta Air Lines and BMW) and Leo Dick (design, data and product whizz with past clients such as Dyson and the British Museum), then began the process of redesigning screening to be faster, cheaper, accurate and scalable.

The process has taken two years and, on the way to launch, Talamo was tested on 1,400 UK children across 18 partner schools, including two specialist dyslexia schools. Results so far show a 94% accuracy rate.

The Talamo screening tool is fully digital and uses content adapted from formal assessments, including Riverside Insights Woodcock-Johnson, with whom Talamo developed a strategic agreement, plus proprietary assessment material. “We’ve

adapted a lot of that test and included some of our material as well as it has to be used in a fully automated session.” AI plays a big part, enabling fast personalised recommendations at the end of the test.

The ideal, says Talamo, is for the test to be taken in a whole-class session led by a school under exam conditions to ensure accurate results (and no cheating). With this approach, the cost of the test is typically around £12 per child. Some parents may wish to get the screening test outside a school setting with their child – currently, this is £69, but Talamo aims to reduce an individual test to £50 over time.

The test is ideally taken in Year 3 or 4. “We’d test even younger, but we wouldn’t feel conﬁdent with those results,” says Jamie. Senior school entry at 11 is another obvious testing point, but the screening can be undertaken at any age from 7-16. What’s important about the design of Talamo is that it’s easy for the children to use – clear and engaging screens and instructions, also not too long a test – and the report generated is aimed at the lay person, not specialist. “We describe it in plain English.” The aim is, of course, to make it clear for parents, as well as teachers and SENCOs and, while highlighting the dyslexia risk is the critical thing, the report generated also includes useful learning proﬁle information – visual reasoning, verbal reasoning, processing speed, and

so on – and easy-to-follow guidance on what to do if a learning need is ﬂagged.

“Most children will get something and, even if they’ve scored really highly, they still get some metacognitive guidance,” says Jamie. He believes this is really important, as many of the elements in the cognitive profile and follow-on recommendations are areas where small adaptations and more awareness may make a sizeable di erence. Just as important, children get insights into their own style as learners. Instead of feeling stupid when they can’t seem to grasp something everyone else in class gets, a child can recognise that it’s just a specific need they have as a learner – such as a working memory issue – and then they can be helped (and help themselves) to find a workaround. “I see it a lot of the time when the kids take the test. A lot of the time it’s a motivational issue, and a lot of that is tied to their self-esteem.”

Talamo is still in the post-launch phase, so Jamie says he and his co-founders are looking forward to feedback from children and teachers so they can further improve the test. He believes it’s the scalability that’s important, and the fact that it may potentially make life a lot easier for children and SENCOs. “The main thing for us is the accessibility aspect of it, it’s trying to take something that was previously reserved for the few and try to put it across as a universal right for everybody.”

talamo.co.uk

“Young people are more likely to be talking to each other – we need them to be really good advice givers”

Let’s talk

Helping young people to recognise and avoid unhealthy relationships is a challenge but we need to start the awkward conversations early, says domestic abuse expert Paula DeVaux

By LIBBY NORMAN

Dtomestic violence accounts for what percentage of violent crime? Answer: 41%.

This, along with 11 other hard-hitting questions, is part of a multiple-choice quiz designed by the teenage relationship education programme Escape the TRAP. Other quiz questions focus on behaviour young people are more aware of. For instance: 'One in three teens say they are text messaged how many times an hour by a partner inquiring where they are?'. The answer: 30 times an hour. While the ﬁrst statistic is obviously shocking, the second is also a loud alarm bell. “Coercive control is the bookend of domestic abuse. You’ve got coercive control within the relationship and then post break up the risk of stalking,” says Paula DeVaux. “If people are waiting for that ﬁrst incident of violence, we are missing

all those incidents of coercive control.”

She says we need to let young people know how such obsessive behaviours work. “There is always a pattern, and the pattern is always coercive control. Extreme jealousy and checking up on someone –those are the triggers, the warning signs, for our young people to recognise.”

Paula knows a lot about relationships that turn dangerous. She is a former probation o cer who specialised in helping to rehabilitate domestic abuse perpetrators. During her career in the service, she also supported victims and children and was seconded to train front-line professionals across Norfolk. These days, she delivers training in the public and private sectors, and that includes workshops and talks within independent and state schools. She’s also a facilitator for specialist programmes, including Escape the TRAP, the eightweek course designed by psychotherapist Cathy Press (TRAP stands for Teenage Relationship Abuse Programme).

Working to support young people has become a big part of Paula’s professional life, but she also has personal motivation as witness to domestic abuse throughout her childhood. This was not something she revealed during her earlier career, but now she sees it as something of a superpower, especially when it comes to reaching young people.

She is particularly concerned by the mixed messages children and teenagers face – both in popular culture and on social media – alongside the negative impact of the Andrew Tates of this world. “Our young people are saturated with this. He’s just one of many when we look at all the unhealthy and harmful inﬂuences. It’s important that we explore this with our children and give them the opportunity to talk about it.”

As well as the risk of modelling the bad inﬂuences they see there is, of course, the perennial issue that many young people will, at some point, gravitate to the loudest voice in the room – often the

bad inﬂuence. “Children are attracted to someone who’s a someone. We need them to know that being respected isn’t being feared.” Then there’s understanding the di erences between care and control within relationships – especially romantic ones. “There’s a massive confusion between jealousy and love which our young people have – a 'well, you can’t love me enough if you’re not jealous'.” So, the 30 texts in an hour question from that Escape the TRAP quiz is really pertinent to this age group.

Just as young people confuse jealousy and love, they are (like adults) often quick to victim blame while excusing the perpetrator. “It’s important that we support young people to recognise that it’s not about mental health, substance misuse, ADHD –it’s not caused by those things. Those things might make it worse, but none of those things cause domestic abuse,” says Paula. “If we collude with that then we are doing a real disservice to all of those people that are dealing with those issues on a regular basis. There are lots of people that have had those experiences and have never been abusive or violent in their relationships.”

Explaining that there’s never a justiﬁcation for abuse is vital. So too is

FAST FACTS

clearing up the misconception about what an abuser is like. In her sessions with young people, she often explodes the preconceptions by pulling up a slide showing baddies from famous ﬁlms. She then goes on to explain that perpetrators are individuals who look and sound like us. They come from all walks of life, and they may be male or female. What they have in common is this set of controlling behaviours we can spot.

While Paula’s sessions with children focus mainly on the teenage plus age group, she delivers age-appropriate advice to all ages. For younger children, the advice focuses on friendships. “When I go into primary age schools – and I talk to children as young as reception age – I talk to them about what being a lovely friend means. What does that look like and what does that feel like? If we get that foundation right, that paves the way for all those other relationships to come,” she says.

“If anyone in your life makes you feel sad or bad, they’re not your person – and that’s what I teach. The

SOURCES OF SUPPORT

• Your Best Friend – advice for young people supporting friends yourbestfriend.org.uk and #friendscantell

• The Mix – charity and 24/7 helpline giving under 25s advice themix.org.uk

• Childline – charity and 24/7 helpline, plus website with useful friendship/ relationship advice childline.org.uk

• SafeLives – charity working to end domestic abuse safelives.org.uk

people in your life that are your go-tos, they are your biggest cheerleaders.” The importance of these conversations is in teaching young people to recognise their own worth – their right to be who they are – and also to help each other recognise toxic situations. “Peer acceptance is a huge deal, and young people are more likely to be talking to each other before they talk to an adult about any of these issues, so we need them to be really good advice givers to each other.”

25% OF GIRLS AGED 13-17, and 17% OF BOYS, have experienced physical force in a teen relationship. 72% of girls and 51% of boys have experienced emotional violence, including constantly being ‘checked up on’. University of Bristol and NSPCC 2009 research

1 IN 5 WOMEN and 1 IN 10 MEN have been victims of stalking. The London Stalking Review 2024

1.6m

In the year end March 2023, there were 1.6M VICTIMS OF STALKING. Suzy Lamplugh Trust

* Police-recorded cases of violence against women and girls increased by 37% BETWEEN 2018-23. National Police Chiefs’ Council and College of Policing joint report

While young people may not understand the complexities of coercive control behaviours, they are well able to understand the principle that no friend should tell them what to wear, eat, say or do. “I let them know that if you’re ever doing anything because you think you should or you have to, not because you want to but because you’re worried if you don’t there’s a consequence and you’re scared of that consequence, then that is not OK. That’s the moment where often they’ll be looking at each other or looking down – you can see those lightbulb moments.” She never forgets that in any setting the early intervention may help both potential future victims and perpetrators change course.

Di cult though it may feel, especially when we want to protect children and stop them growing up too fast, Paula counsels parents to start the conversation early, and to keep dialogue going. “Don’t avoid those awkward conversations and think they are too young for it. They are not. And if we don’t talk about it, they’ll go to social media or Google.” Meanwhile, she believes every school should provide a speciﬁc programme to help children navigate those ﬁrst romantic relationships in safety and with their self-esteem intact.

“It’s a life skill – I’d argue it’s as essential as learning how to swim.”

pauladevaux.co.uk

The

game A

A surprising number of students choose their A-levels

unaware of the longterm impact on future study and career if they get it wrong, writes Jess Harris

Lily is doing the wrong A-levels. A Year 13 student at a leading girls’ school, she has realised that the subjects she has chosen aren’t right for what she wants to study at university. When she took her GCSEs, she was keen on humanities and textiles and opted for history, psychology and ﬁne art for A-level. But she now realises she wants to study something to do with Life Sciences and she can’t do that without biology A-level.

She is not alone. Which, the UK consumer choices group, reported that 28% of more than 1,000 university applicants aged 18–19-years-old said, when surveyed, that they wished they had chosen di erent subjects. And only half of students surveyed felt well enough informed about how the subjects they had studied could a ect their choice of degree and university.

“It would be really helpful if our education system started with the desired university degree and worked backwards,” says Amelia Buckworth at Quintessentially Education. “If we started with where students want to end up, we could ensure they have clear

academic pathways. Instead, students narrow their subjects in Year 9 when they choose their GCSEs and again at A-level.”

Of course, some students know early what they want to study at university, but many others are unsure. Even for students who have a clear idea of where they are heading, Amelia advises doing the research. “Di erent universities and courses have distinct subject requirements. Being aware of these di erences early on will help ensure that students' chosen GCSE and A-level subjects do not become a barrier to pursuing a certain academic interest, or a particular university.”

For example, a BSc in Economics at LSE requires an A* in Maths, but a BA in Economics at SOAS does not.

By far the largest number of A-level students we support are those who dropped maths after GCSE without realising they needed an A-level in the subject to go on to apply to their desired STEM course at university. For those who are unsure when they embark on choosing GCSEs and A-levels, Amelia suggests keeping all options open. It helps to research a selection of subjects to gauge the entry requirements. It

“ASK ADVICE ON HOW TO KEEP EVERY PATHWAY OPEN”

might also be wise to choose one or two ‘facilitating subjects’ – academic A-levels that top universities prefer. For those students who have started A-levels and realised they aren’t the right subjects, it’s important not to panic. If you’re only a term in, think about switching just after the winter break. This is school dependent, but we have supported students who have changed an A-level subject after one term. Alternatively, if you have your heart set on a particular course at a particular university, you could explore taking on another A-level. “We only advise students to take four A-levels in particular

DO...

• Get honest teacher feedback on how you're likely to perform before choosing A-levels.

• Bear in mind those 'facilitating subjects' that keep more HE options open (History, Geography, English, Modern and Classical Languages, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths and Further Maths).

circumstances,” says Amelia. “But if picking up a fourth helps you get on to the course you want to do, then it makes sense.”

It can also be a good idea to broaden your university horizons – there are so many courses to choose from, all with di erent entry requirements. Another option is foundation courses, which take up to one-year to complete, typically have lower entrance thresholds and may help get you to your destination point. These can be studied at a university or at another location (for instance an FE college), but are designed to help access university. Amelia doesn’t recommend banking on this route, but adds that successful completion enables many students to continue on to the course they are interested in. Most important of all is to do your research. “It doesn’t matter if you don’t know what you want to do at university, but make sure you get good advice,” says Amelia. “Ask your school for advice on how to keep every pathway open, and there is always secondary expert support available, too.”

Jess Harris is the Director of Quintessentially Education. See more at quintessentially.com/education

• Be wary of A-levels with overlapping curricula – for instance Business Studies and Economics – if you are taking three subjects.

• Consider Art or Music as a fourth subject, rather than one of your three subjects, if you’re unsure of your course direction.

DON’ T...

• Assume you will like a subject at A-level just because you liked it at GCSE – research the syllabus.

• Narrow your options by choosing subjects considered 'so ' by some universities. Examples may include General Studies and Global Perspectives.

• Take all new subjects – three, or even two, entirely new areas of study might be overwhelming.

• Avoid studying a Modern Foreign Language (for instance, Mandarin or Spanish) as one of your three core A-levels if you are already a native speaker – it may be seen as a 'light' option.

INSPIRING EXCELLENCE

Cundall Manor School welcomes new Headmaster, Simon Weale

Cundall Manor School is delighted to announce the appointment of Simon Weale as Headmaster.

Simon is a highly experienced independent school Headmaster with a demonstrable and impressive track record in whole school leadership both in the UK and internationally.

Until December, Simon served as Director of Bishop Cotton School, India’s top-ranked boys’ ‘legacy’ boarding school, as recognised by Education World magazine. Prior to this, he spent six years as Headmaster of Shebbear College in Devon, a co-educational independent day and boarding school whose ethos and size mirror that of Cundall Manor.

Simon is a strong advocate of UK independent education and, speaking about Cundall Manor, he says: “The Cundall educational o er is determinedly warm-hearted and holistic. Our pupils

thrive in a rural co-educational setting where they are known as individuals in small class sizes and are supported by teachers with genuine ambition for them. This helps them develop self-conﬁdence, emotional intelligence, and a desire to seize the opportunities life presents.

“Cundall pupils are privileged to grow up in inspirational surroundings, enjoy a healthy, sporty lifestyle, and beneﬁt from an education that celebrates their childhood while preparing them for life beyond school. I am committed to building on the fantastic work already being done here and drawing on my experiences both in the UK and internationally to ensure an ambitious, world-class education that supports families’ investments and helps our pupils become successful, principled, and proactive global citizens.”

Simon’s passion for education is complemented by his enthusiasm for sport and the outdoors. As a former

Oxford cricketer with three Blues and a two-time National Club Championship winner with Teddington CC, he also played representative hockey and junior club rugby. During his teaching career, Simon has led outdoor education initiatives, coached sports teams, and organised a host of international school trips.

The Governors are delighted to have appointed an experienced and accomplished Headmaster who is fully aligned with the values of their school.

“During our search, we were adamant that the next Headmaster hold signiﬁcant experience of whole school leadership and the Governors have been impressed by his immediate recognition of the opportunities that Cundall has to o er. We are conﬁdent that he will lead our school into the future with diligence, energy and enthusiasm,” says Chair of Governors, Rachel Powell.

cundallmanorschool.com

EDUCATION NEWS

The latest from schools across the county

Diamond sparkle

The Governing Body of The Wakefield Grammar School Foundation is thrilled to announce a transformative change for its schools. From September 2026, Queen Elizabeth Grammar School, Wakefield Girls’ High School, and Wakefield Grammar PrePreparatory School will merge into one coeducational diamond model school for ages 3-18. Under this innovative model, primary students will learn together, senior students will benefit from singlesex academics alongside co-educational activities, and the sixth form will be fully co-educational. This approach ensures equality, enriched opportunities, and tailored learning.

Richard Brookes, the newly appointed Executive Head, will lead this exciting new chapter, fostering excellence and preparing students for future success.

The Wakeﬁeld Grammar School Foundation numbers amongst the country’s leading families of independent day schools. wgsf.org.uk

Centenary celebrations

There is an exciting year ahead at Queen Mary’s School as this leading day and boarding school, just minutes from the AlM between Ripon and Thirsk, celebrates its Centenary. Going into this special Centenary year, the school is thriving having been named in the top ten independent schools with no sixth form in the UK – The Sunday Times 2025 Parent Power Schools Guide. This success can be attributed to academic excellence, the extensive co-curricular programme, investment in the school and its facilities, and much more.

As part of Queen Mary’s Centenary celebrations, an events programme will include a Party in the Park, Centenary Service at Ripon Cathedral, Centenary Ball, and many more events. Open Day: Friday 14 March. Register for an event or personal visits are available. Call 01845 575000 or email admissions@queenmarys.org

Top marks

The Mount School York was delighted to achieve the best A-level results in York with 83% A*-B and is again ranked in the Sunday Times’ top ten independent schools (North) for academic performance. Their diverse extra-curricular oﬀerings mean that Mount pupils don’t just excel in exams, but are also wellrounded young people that become the change they wish to see. Register for their Saturday 8 March Whole School Open Day (10am-1pm), or open doors’ events on Saturdays 26 April and 7 June (10am-12 noon). This will give you an opportunity to meet

their wonderful new Head, Anna Wilby. They now proudly welcome boys into junior school and the ﬁrst intake is thriving in Pre-school and Reception, with boys entering Year One in September 2025. These new coeducational classes enjoy their unique Explore, Discover, Create curriculum where curiosity leads the way.

Visit mountschoolyork.co.uk or call 01904 667500 to sign up

MONEY CAN BUY…

A four-bedroom detached home in a wonderful part of Leeds

WHERE

In the heart of Alwoodley, Leeds

Fine & Country are delighted to present this impressive four-bedroom detached home in the heart of Alwoodley. Set in southfacing grounds, the property also includes a self-contained one-bedroom annex.

INSIDE

The ground floor features a spacious reception hall with travertine flooring, a fully tiled guest WC, and five versatile reception rooms: a formal dining room, o ce/study, games room, living room, and lounge. The heart of the home is the kitchen, fitted with high-quality wall and base units, which opens into an impressive family room with doors leading to the garden. A wellequipped utility room adds practicality, o ering fitted units, a sink, and plumbing for appliances.

The annex provides independent living space, including a hallway, living room with a modern kitchen, a spacious bedroom, dressing room, and en-suite.

Upstairs, the luxurious main suite features a bedroom, lounge, Juliette balcony, dressing room, and en-suite. An additional bedroom includes an en-suite, while two more bedrooms are served by a fully tiled house bathroom with modern ﬁttings.

OUTSIDE

The property boasts a gated driveway with parking for multiple vehicles and a south-facing landscaped garden just under half an acre. The rear garden includes a large terrace for alfresco dining, lawned areas, ﬂower borders, shrubs, and trees. Additional storage is provided by two garden sheds.

PRICE

£1,600,000

AGENT

Fine & Country Leeds 0113 2034939

sales@ﬁneandcountryleeds.com

MONEY CAN BUY…

An elegant development of thirty-three exclusive new homes

WHERE

Nestled in the picturesque and highly regarded village of Sutton-cum-Lound, near Retford in Nottinghamshire, Knights Gate o ers the best of both worlds: a peaceful countryside setting with all the modern conveniences of village life, yet close to major transport links and urban centres.

WHAT

Knights Gate is an elegant development featuring a diverse range of thoughtfully designed homes. This collection of bespoke four-bedroom detached properties is tailored to meet the needs of today’s discerning buyers. Every home has been designed with family living at its heart, o ering spacious, functional layouts that seamlessly blend comfort and style. Whether you're looking for space to entertain or a tranquil retreat, Knights Gate has everything you need to create your ideal living space.

INSIDE

Each property boasts a timeless, airy design with polished, high-quality ﬁnishes. From kitchens to bathrooms, every detail has been carefully considered. Reserve your home early, and you'll have the opportunity to personalise it with a range of high-end options. Choose from a selection of stylish kitchen layouts to create the heart of your home and select luxurious bathroom suites designed for ultimate relaxation. Plus, choose between a variety of ﬂooring options.

OUTSIDE

Professionally landscaped gardens feature freshly turfed lawns, inviting breakfast terraces, and elegant patios, perfect for alfresco dining or enjoying a quiet moment with a morning co ee. External lighting to both the front and rear of the property provides a welcoming glow and adds an extra touch of sophistication.

PRICE

With prices starting at £375,000, Knights Gate represents exceptional value for such highquality living. Limited-time deals are available.

SELLING AGENT

Fenwood Estates

Show home is open every Sunday 10-5pm and the rest of the week by private viewing appointment, call on 01302 249550 or email info@fenwood.com to ﬁnd out more information

why everyone is talking about…

Sir Peter Murray

The founder of the Yorkshire Sculpture Park is being honoured for his impact on the arts

With a modest grant of £1,000 and no sta , Sir Peter Murray’s vision turned the Yorkshire Sculpture Park (YSP) into the largest open-air sculpture park in Europe. It is the only place in Europe to display Barbara Hepworth’s The Family of Man in its entirety, alongside a remarkable collection and range of installations and projects by artists such as Henry Moore, Roger Hiorns, Damien Hirst, and Andy Goldsworthy.

Sir Peter is one of seven Arts & Film Game Changers whose achievements have been transformed into a first-of-its-kind AI artwork at the V&A South Kensington in London. Created using state-of-the-art cognitive technology, the AI data painting uses the brainwaves of seven ‘Game Changers’ – who have had a huge impact across grassroots and iconic arts and film projects – to create a beautiful ever-changing projection inspired by their journey, work, inspirations, creative processes and impact. Re-imagining the iconic façade of the V&A’s Exhibition Road Courtyard building, the ‘Symphony of the Game Changers’ AI cognitive painting, is a UK-first artwork for Istanbul-based Ouchhh Studio, who use ground-breaking cognitive technology to illuminate iconic buildings across the world.

The YSP was founded in 1977. Over its 45year history, YSP has worked with over 1,000 artists from more than 40 countries, o ering residencies, major exhibitions, and support for artists at critical points in their careers. It is an inﬂuential model for other projects concerned with art and landscape committed to providing open access to the arts. The park welcomes around half a million visitors

annually and engages with 40,000 people through educational programs, and YSP has received £5.4m in National Lottery funding.

Sir Peter says: “Being nominated as a Game Changer is a fantastic recognition of everything the sta and trustees have achieved at The Yorkshire Sculpture Park. When I set out in 1977 to establish the park, I was determined to create a place for people to enjoy sculpture in the open air from artists from all around the world. There are so many incredible artists whose work we have been able to display, including local Yorkshire artists Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth. Now, the park welcomes half a million visitors annually and contributes millions to the regional Yorkshire economy.”

lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/gamechangers

SIR

WORK BY DANIEL ARSHAM

WORK BY DAMIEN HIRST