SE21 September 2026

The only Community Magazine for Dulwich Village & West Dulwich Established 2006 www.semagazines.co.uk

Issue 237 - September 2026 In this issue What’s On Dulwich Hamlet FC Garden Talk Education News Fitness Tips Financial Matters Dulwich Society The Last Word

- P6 - P10 - P12 - P14 - P16 - P20 - P28 - P32

O BACK TOL! SCHO Rethink your child’s education.

We have.

Open Day: Saturday 19 September stdunstans.org.uk

Welcome to SE21 Welcome to the September issue of SE21. Where did August go? I am not complaining as it means it is time for my favourite time of the year and my bumper Back to School issue.

As usual I have rounded up all the great events taking place in and around Dulwich. The events pages start on page 6. September is another busy month for events, so we have a fabulous eight pages of online and in person events happening in and around Dulwich.

Remember to check out www.arounddulwich.co.uk for a full list of events, as there are too many to put in the magazine this monthl. Also events get added after I have gone to print. You can often find out more details online too.

If you are running a local event you can add it, for free, to our online calendar on Around Dulwich. www.arounddulwich.co.uk.

The Last Word is back this month with Anne Lynch, RWS. Anne is a painter and member of the Royal Watercolour Society. Find out more on page 32.

Remember the magazine depends on all the wondeful local advertisers, so please do let them know if you saw them in this magazine!

Until next time.

Angela Angela Burgess Head of All Things Community SE Magazines

Ph

ot og ra p

h by

Portra ye d Ph oto

p gra

hy

Call 020 8693 9040 angela@semagazines.co.uk www.semagazines.co.uk @semags_arounddulwich

If you would like to advertise in our next issue, you can download our rates from our website any time.

Or if you prefer, give me a call!

Contents Welcome ..................................................................... 3 Events Calendar.......................................................... 4 What’s On..........................6, 8, 9, 22, 24, 25, 26 & 27 Dulwich Hamlet FC Update ...................................... 10 Garden Talk .............................................................. 12 Education News........................................................ 14 Fitness Tips............................................................... 16

Financial Matters...................................................... 20 Dulwich Society......................................................... 28 Link Age Southwark Volunteers Needed.................. 29 Children’s Activities.................................................. 29 Ripe Old Age.............................................................. 30 The Last Word .......................................................... 32 Index ........................................................................ 34

October Deadline - 15 September (please allow an extra two days if design is required) To advertise in SE21 please contact Angela Burgess on 020 8693 9040 or e-mail: angela@semagazines.co.uk for further information. You can download our media pack from our website: www.semagazines.co.uk.

Printed by Stephens & George Ltd ©SE Magazines Ltd All rights reserved. No reproduction can be made without permission. “This Publication is manufactured from (ECF) Elemental Chlorine Free pulp; sourced from certified or well managed forests and plantations, printed using vegetable based inks” “The fibres in this paper can be used up to a further seven times in the production of recycled paper. Please recycle this publication when it’s usefulness has been exhausted” Front cover image © istockphoto.com.

SE21 - September 2026 | 3

Events Calendar - September Monday

31st

Tuesday

1st

Goose Green Coffee Mornings, p6.

Dulwich Park Runners see p6.

Zoom Portraiture @ Dulwich Art School, see p6.

The Cauldron: the Making of the Middle East by Simon Montefiore p8.

Lewisham Underwater Hockey Club p8.

9th

10th

11th

12th

13th

16th

17th

18th

19th

20th

Dulwich Park Runners see p6.

14th

15th Weekly Online Breathing Class p6.

Dulwich Park Runners see p6.

Richard Dadd at the Royal Academy, p25.

22nd

5th

Sunday

Weekly Online Breathing Class p6.

8th

4th

Saturday

3rd

An Evening with Robert Harris, see p24.

Dulwich WI, see page 26.

Friday

BNI Adventures p8.

Weekly Online Breathing Class p6.

21st

Thursday

2nd

Honor Oak WI Meeting, see p6.

7th

Wednesday

6th

Junior parkruns, p22.

The Weekly Horniman Men Walk Talk, p9.

Market p22.

Peckham Farmers’ One Tree Hill Market, p22.

Allotments Open Bell House Open Day, see p22.

Garden, see p9.

Linkage Southwark Peckham Rye Open Garden p22.

Fete see p9.

Deep Rest Gong Bath, see p22. parkruns, see p9.

ESEA Heritage Month Exhibition, see p9. parkruns, see p9.

Goose Green Coffee BNI Adventures p8.

Goose Green Lunch Mini Masterpieces Peckham Farmers’ Junior parkruns, p22.

Mornings, p6.

Club p25.

The Weekly Horniman p8.

Market, p22.

Zoom Portraiture Simple Too: An Market p22. @ Dulwich Art Evening with School, see p6.

Yotam Ottolenghi, Lewisham see p24.

EDWI Mindful Underwater Singaround, p25.

Alpha Course Drawing, see p24.

Hockey Club p8. starts, see p25.

ESEA Heritage Month Exhibition, see p9.

Goose Green Coffee BNI Adventures p8.

Goose Green Lunch Mornings, p62.

Club p25.

Popchoir New Lewisham What have we Term, see p21.

Underwater done? Free Preview Hockey Club p8.

Evening, p25.

Junior parkruns, see p22.

The Weekly Horniman Peckham Farmers’ Market p22.

Market, p22.

Dulwich Quilters Exhibition, see p25.

Deep Rest Gong Bath, see p26.

What have we done? Exhibition at Ben Oakley Gallery, p25. parkruns, see p9.

23rd

24th

25th

26th

27th

30th

1st

2nd

3rd

4th

ESEA Heritage Month Exhibition, see p9. parkruns, see p9.

Goose Green Coffee BNI Adventures p8.

Weekly Online Lewisham Peckham Farmers’ Junior parkruns, p22.

Breathing Class p6.

Mornings, p6.

Underwater The Weekly Horniman Market, p22.

Goose Green Lunch Dulwich Park Hockey Club p8.

Zoom Portraiture Dyslexia - Beyond Market p22.

Club p25.

Runners see p62. @ Dulwich Art the Page p26.

Cohen The Dulwich Society School, see p6.

Autumn Artisan BraithwaiteTalk with Brian Craft & Makers Kilcoyne, see p26.

Green p26.

Fayre, p27.

What have we done? Exhibition at Ben Oakley Gallery, see p25.

The Art Show & Writer’s Talk, p7.

28th

29th

Bach to Baby Concert p327

Weekly Online Breathing Class p6.

Dulwich Park Runners see p6.

What have we done? Exhibition at Ben Oakley Gallery, see p25.

Goose Green Coffee Mornings, p6.

Zoom Portraiture @ Dulwich Art School, see p6.

Down Burrow Lane: Life & Love on the Farm, p27.

Forthcoming Events Further details where available can be found in the News and Events pages 6, 8, 9, 22, 24, 25, 26 & 27. Please read as not all the events can fit on the calendar!

4 | SE21 - September 2026

1976–2026 50 YE A

TU RS S HAPING FU

S RE

100%

‘Very Satisfied’ (92%) or ‘Satisfied’ (8%) See website for July 2026 parent survey results

The perfect setting for your child’s early schooling } Focusing exclusively on first-class Early Childhood Education (age 2+ to 7+), the most crucial period in a child’s life } Transitioning seamlessly from play-based to more structured learning, preparing the children to move on at 7+ with that special Herne Hill School spark } Embedding key values and developing ‘the whole child’ through a unique, continuous five-year curriculum } Expert staff operating under the ethos of Love · Care · Excellence in which children excel and learn with fun and enthusiasm } Extensive wrap-around care from 7.45am to 6pm } High-quality holiday provision for children aged 2–4

The setting and environment are outstanding - stealth academia in an incredibly nurturing and loving environment.

— 2026 Year 1 parent

Welcoming applications for September 2027 Where possible we are accommodating in-year transfers if you are underwhelmed by your child’s current school.

Autumn Open Morning Saturday 26 September 2026

2-7 Years Early Childhood Education · Founded 1976 · Co-Educational · hernehillschool.co.uk

Herne Hill School Love • Care • Excellence

WINNER Award for Excellence and Innovation in Art and Design

PRE-PREP OF THE YEAR

SE21 - September 2026 | 5

What's On - September Tuesdays 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 September: Weekly Online Breathing Class 7pm – 7.40pm

Tuesday 1 September: Honor Oak WI Monthly Meeting 7.30pm-9.30pm. The Honor Oak WI is a friendly and supportive group of women of all ages, backgrounds and interests, meeting on the first Tuesday of the month. We also have a book club, craft club and gallery & museum visits group. All welcome but maybe a charge for materials for non-members. honoroakwi@gmail.com.

Instagram: honoroak_wi. www.facebook.com/groups/honoroakwi.

Stanstead Lodge Café, Northwood Road, SE23 1DD

A 40-minute breathing and relaxation class.

Unwind, centre yourself and use the breath to help relax and prepare for a restful evening.

Using different breathing techniques that can be incorporated into your day along with a few gentle mat-based stretches and ending with Yoga Nidra a full body guided meditation for deep relaxation. All welcome. No experience is needed. £7. To join see: https://liveyogateachers.com/classes/ meditation-open-level-kerry-flower

Tuesdays 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 September: DPR Social Runs

7:30pm – 8:30pm. Fantastic local running club.

Social runs every Tuesday 7.30pm at Trevor Bailey Sports Ground on the south circular. Plus runs every Sunday morning; coached sessions on Thursdays; cross country races; competitions; weekends away; frequent social activities. Come along on a Tuesday to try us out! www.dulwichparkrunners.co.uk enquiries@dulwichparkrunners.com Trevor Bailey Club House Dulwich Common SE21 7HA 6 | SE21 - September 2026

Wednesdays 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 September: Goose Green Coffee Morning 11am-12.30pm Do drop in for a warm welcome, coffee, tea and cake! We are open every Wednesday, it's a great place to get to know others from the local community. ALL WELCOME! FREE! St John The Evangelist, East Dulwich, 62A East Dulwich Road, East Dulwich, SE22 9AT

Wednesdays 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 September: Zoom Portraiture @Dulwich Art Group & School

2pm – 5pm. Paint a clothed model with a focus on the portrait over two three-hour sessions. We give you a wide view and a closer portrait view so you can work out the framing for yourself. The model will at times be engaged in conversation in order to bring some animation to the face.

ONLINE EVENT: www.dulwichartgroup.co.uk.

8

St. Barnabas Dulwich 40 Calton Avenue SE21 7DG www.stbarnabasdulwich.org 020 8693 1524

& WRITER’S TALK Own a slice of history Original watercolours

by June Everett

OPEN HOUSE 10am SATURDAY 26 SEPTEMBER

11-12 noon Clare Stevens, author of Building for the Future, shares coffee, cookies and memories. FREE EVENT. Books on sale and bids taken for artworks. Register online/ 30thAnniversary for the talk and details of other viewings.

www.diyalcovecabinets.co.uk

SE21 - September 2026 | 7

What's On - September Thursday 3 September: The Cauldron: The Making of the Modern Middle East

by Simon Sebag Montefiore

Fridays 4, 11, 18 & 25 September: Lewisham Underwater Hockey Club 7:45pm – 9pm. Try out underwater hockey at Forest Hill pools every Friday evening. We’re a mixed ability club who play for fun and exercise.

Complete beginners welcome - we’ll ease you in gently and have kit you can borrow.

Forest Hill Pools, Dartmouth Road, SE23 2HZ. www.luwhc.org.uk.

Friday 4 September: Mini Masterpieces 10am & 12pm 7.30pm-8.30pm. A master storyteller and one of today’s most acclaimed historians, Simon Sebag Montefiore offers a sweeping, revelatory journey through the making of the modern Middle East. Long a cradle of faiths, a battleground of empires, a flashpoint for global conflict, and the heart of world affairs, the region continues to fascinate and unsettle in equal measure. Simon delivers a fresh and unique history of the entire region in all its diversity, from 1900 up to the present day. This is the essential story of how the Middle East of 1900 became the Middle East of today – and tomorrow.

The MCT, Alleyn's School, Townley Road, SE22 8SU TICKETS https://www.trybooking.com/uk/events/ landing/115343.

A Village Books event in association with Alleyn's Schools Enterprises.

Thursdays 3, 10, 17 & 24 September: BNI Adventures 6:30am – 8:30am. Part of the award winning multi-national networking organisation, BNI, Adventurers brings together businesses local to Dulwich with the aim of passing business and keeping money in the local community. Givers gain, and members of Adventurers have excelled at both over the last 12 months. Breakfast included. Free parking. Get referrals: boost your business! Please contact Hayley on 07843 989728 for more information.

Dulwich & Sydenham Golf Club, Grange Lane, College Road, Dulwich, SE21 7LH. Register for this event on: www.eventbrite.co.uk 8 | SE21 - September 2026

Spark your child's imagination through playful creative activities. Join these exploratory sessions for under 5s with each session beginning in the Art Play Pavilion. Journey through the Gallery to discover the different people, places and animals in our paintings, followed by an artmaking activity. Our themes change monthly to keep your little creatives engaged and open them up to new ways of playing.

• Recommended for under 5-year-olds.

• Event begins in the ArtPlay Pavilion, moves to the Gallery and ends in the Art Studio.

• 2 adults maximum per child.

• Dress children for messy play or bring a change of clothes.

• We have wet wipes on hand and there are toilets nearby.

• All materials are non-toxic and safe to put in mouths. Our ‘baby paint’ is made from cornflour, water and food colouring. Please do get in touch in advance if your baby has any allergies and we will provide an alternative.

Your comfort is our priority. Please contact learning@dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk with any queries or concerns.

Dulwich Picture Gallery College Road, Dulwich, SE21 7AD. www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk.

What's On - September Friday 4 September Sunday 4 October: ESEA Heritage Month Exhibition Celebrate ESEA (East & South East Asia) Heritage Month in September with us at Canvas & Cream Gallery for the opening of the Peking Opera LianPu Exhibition led by artist Carry Hornby.

Discover the artistry, symbolism, and stories behind the striking painted masks of traditional Chinese theatre and Peking Opera. Talks & workshops with @mscarrycalligraphyartschool, along with activities including masks making, fan decorations, paper cutting and calligraphy.

PRIVATE VIEW: 17 September, 6pm–8pm, Canvas & Cream Gallery, 18 London Road, SE23 3HF https://www.chineseclass.hornby.org.uk.

Saturdays 5, 12, 19 & 26 September: Parkrun 9am – 10am Dulwich Parkrun

Free, weekly timed 5k run, jog, or walk in Dulwich Park starting from Queen Mary’s Gate. Register once and bring your printed barcode (can be used at any parkrun across the world). Firsttimers briefing at 08.50. Also in Peckham Rye, Brockwell and Crystal Palace parks. https://www.parkrun.org.uk/dulwich/

Peckham Rye Park Run

A 3-lap anti clockwise course, entirely on tarmac and is mainly flat and therefore a potential PB course The start & finish are located close to the Colyton Road entrance of the park.

Peckham Rye Park, Colyton Road SE15 4JR. https://www.parkrun.org.uk/peckhamrye/

Saturday 5 September: Men Walk Talk - Honor Oak 10am-11am. A monthly walk for men, taking in the green spaces of SE23 and surrounding area.

Traditionally, men often avoid seeking mental health support, but we provide a community of support for guys to know they are not alone, and they can speak up. Join Richard for a walk and a talk on the first Saturday of every month.

For more information: menwalktalk.co.uk 76-78 Honor Oak Park, SE23 1DY

Saturday 5 September: Peckham Rye Fete 12pm-5pm

Our ever-popular fete and dog show takes a lot of work to run, and we especially need volunteers to run the coconut shy and children’s races.

Contact peckhamryepark@gmail.com if you can give us an hour or two of your time.

Paws and Pause took over running the wonderful fete and dog show last year. What a triumph it was - delighted they are returning for another go. A busy crowd enjoyed all the fun of the dog show, sack races, coconut shy, Punch and Judy, the Friends-run stands and stalls such as the Pimms, wine and beer stand, the tea and cakes tent, the book and plant stalls, along with a variety of other food stands and stalls. www.peckhamryepark.org/news.

Peckham Rye Park, Straker's Road, SE15 3UA.

Saturday 5 September: Bell House Open Garden 11.30am-1pm. The wonderful three-acre site, designed and maintained entirely by volunteers, comprises three large gardens with a variety of features for visitors to enjoy and a range of different habitats for wildlife.

Visitors enter the Walled Garden through the newly landscaped dry garden. The tranquil House Garden has large beds for pollinators which provide colour from Spring until late Autumn and interesting forms through the winter. Finish in the Pickwick Garden, our Polytunnel and nursery plant area which help us in our commitment to garden sustainably. We have plants for sale, propagated and grown on site. Take a moment to sit and relax with a tea or coffee from our refreshment stall and visit stalls or drop-in sessions run by the Creative Groups at Bell House. https://www.bellhouse.co.uk.

Bell House Dulwich, 27 College Road, SE21 7BG 22 SE21 - September 2026 | 9

Dulwich Hamlet FC dulwichhamletfc.co.uk | dhst.org.uk | Champion Hill Stadium, Edgar Kail Way, East Dulwich, London SE22 8BD.

NewSeason–Same Sexy Football

S

ome things never change – including it turns out our weather, which I believe someone may need to switch off and on again soon, as it is clearly broken. It is the constants in life that can either get you down (like delayed trains at the drop of a hat) or that keep you going (like Dulwich Hamlet playing sexy football and scoring buckets of goals on a late summer afternoon). Yes, despite the world around us turning, our lads and lasses in pink and blue will relentlessly, and unceasingly, serve high class football, and there is not much you can do to stop them. Take the season opener for the men’s team, a 6-0 scoreline, in the company of lovely people and even lovelier dogs.

If you haven’t been before, give it a go, and if you have, come back, you are always welcome.

And whilst around the ground, don’t forget to speak to the Supporters’ Trust about our plans for the season – and please do also think about renewing or signing up for membership. The Supporters’ Trust exists to ensure the fans’ voice is heard at the Club, and we have three Trust nominated members of the Club Board to help make that happen. We also do community work, invest in projects to support the matchday experience, and we run the shop at the famous Mega Container, including designing all your favourite scarves, hats and shirts.

Our membership runs from 1 August onward, so there is no better time to join than now – or you can renew via direct debit. Sign up and show your support to the teams, as well as help us continue in our work. If you’d prefer to join in person, come sign up on a matchday at the Mega Container, or you can do it online at dhst.org.uk.

Come For The Football, Stay For The Merch…

If there is one thing we know our fans love more than almost anything, it is our legendary merchandise – situated in our iconic Mega Container at Champion Hill. From bucket hats and beanies, to t-shirts, scarves and pins, we have a vast array of products that will not only help the Trust, and 10 | SE21 - September 2026

support the Club, it will make you the envy of your friends in the process. Our very popular corduroy hats are back in stock now, and for a limited time only, while stocks last, we have last season’s home and away shirts available for just £25. A bargain you will not want to miss. Visit us at the ground, or have a look at dhst.org.uk and buy online.

Fixtures In September the men are at home twice. First up is Brentwood Town on Saturday 12th, and then Aveley visit Champion Hill on Saturday 19th. Get your tickets on the club website or get down to the ground on the day – but always best to buy in advance to avoid disappointment.

For the women, we have Dartford on Sunday 6th, Billericay Town on Sunday 13th, London Bees on Sunday 20th, and Crystal Palace on Sunday 27th – surely you can make at least one of those! The women’s games have such a brilliant atmosphere, well worth a trip if you’ve not been yet. Up the Hamlet – and see you at Champion Hill soon!

Looking for a local Accountant?

Fixed fees agreed in advance Professionally qualified advice High in quality, low in cost

MICK MEAD, ACMA 07484 194840 020 8291 7216 mick.mead@aims.co.uk

SILVERFIT CLASSES MONDAYS 1PM WEDNESDAYS 11AM CONTACT US 07871277913 extramileathletes.co.uk

aims.co.uk/accountants/mick-mead

DULWICH SPORTS CLUB, SE24 9HP

BUILD STRENGTH IMPROVE CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH INCREASE MOBILITY & BALANCE

ENJOY OUR COMMUNITY

SE21 - September 2026 | 11

Garden Talk With Janine Winlaw | Instagram @janinewinlaw

Top 10 Perennials To Keep The Colour Coming…

A

fter this summer’s relentless heat, many of our gardens are looking distinctly crispy. But September is a lovely month in the garden, so it’s worth a little TLC now. Cut away the worst of the scorched growth and give struggling plants a really good, slow soak, concentrating on newly planted shrubs and perennials. Then focus on the late-flowering perennials that can keep the colour, structure and movement coming into autumn. Here a few suggestions.

1) Salvias Salvia ‘Amistad’ is a star, with deep purple flower spires that can keep going into October. ‘Blue Enigma’ has tall electric-blue spikes, while shrubby salvias such as S. Nachtvlinder and bright pink S. 'Cerro Potosí' cope well with heat and will also keep going with regular deadheading.

2) Perovskia Another plant that seems to have positively basked in the heat is Perovskia ‘Blue Spire’. Its silvery stems and pale-blue flowers create a wonderful haze through a border, particularly planted generously in an open spot among grasses. It thrives in sun and well-drained soil and looks good into winter.

3) Achillea Achilleas have also been stars this summer. Their finely divided foliage and flat flowerheads cope well with heat and dry conditions. Try ‘Terracotta’ for warm apricot tones or ‘Cerise Queen’ for deep pink. They can keep flowering into September, particularly if deadheaded regularly.

4) Echinacea Echinacea loves full sun and well-drained soil and is surprisingly tolerant of dry conditions once established. E. ‘Magnus’ has rich pink petals, while ‘White Swan’ is clean white. For something more unusual, try ‘Green Twister’, with petals that fade from green to pink. Their seedheads provide useful winter structure.

12 | SE21 - September 2026

5) Asters For a final flush of daisy flowers, try later colour, try Symphyotrichum ‘Vasterival’, with clouds of soft pink-lilac flowers on dark stems or Aster ‘Twilight’, with lavender-blue daisies and copes with some shade.

6) Persicaria Persicaria amplexicaulis ‘Firetail’ is a September stalwart, with masses of slim red flower spikes that seem to flower forever. ‘Blackfield’ is a darker, moodier alternative. There are also pale pink and white varieties. Thread them through grasses for height and movement.

7) Rudbeckia It’s hard to beat Rudbeckia ‘Goldsturm’ for latesummer impact. Its brilliant golden daisies shine out against grasses and purples and continue flowering well into September.

8) Hylotelephium Sedums come into their own now. Hylotelephium ‘Red Cauli’ has rich crimson flowerheads, while ‘Herbstfreude’ (Autumn Joy) has softer pink flowers that deepen to coppery red. Their fleshy foliage copes well with dry conditions and the sturdy flowerheads provide structure long after flowering.

9) Verbenas Verbena bonariensis brings height and airiness.

Leave some seedheads standing and it will often self-seed for next year. For a lower, more droughttolerant option, try Verbena rigida, with vivid purple flowers held above narrow foliage.

10) Helenium For warm, late-season colour, Helenium ‘Moerheim Beauty’ is hard to beat with rich russet-red flowers.

‘Sahin’s Early Flowerer’ is another excellent choice, flowering earlier and for a long period in delicious orange hues.

Call For A Free Site Visit

French Polishing to all wood furniture Polishing of staircases & paneling Repairs & laying of wood floors Established for Fifty Years All Work Insured & Guaranteed Member of The Guild of Mastercraftsmen

CLIMATE RESILIENT

GRAVEL GARDENS No more constant watering or weeding!

Gravel gardens offer colour and beauty with minimal upkeep.

Perfect for sunny sites.

Kim Thornton 07986 834101 @robert1cox www.robertcox.net | mail@robertcox.net | 020 8778 0712

www.theugp.co.uk info@theugp.co.uk

SE21 - September 2026 | 13

Raising Curious Children Education News From Alleyn's | www.alleyns.org.uk

Small Moments That Promote Lifelong Learning

By Simon Severino Head of Alleyn’s Junior School

W

onder and curiosity are the foundations of lifelong and healthy learning.

Encouraging such qualities in our children will nurture confidence and resilience, support a growth mindset and bring them connection and a sense of place. In a world that is increasingly fast-paced and ‘noisy’, children (and adults) can sometimes feel overwhelmed, anxious and become risk averse. Having a strong sense of curiosity really is the best tonic to remain grounded, become comfortable with uncertainty and realise that making mistakes is part of learning. In my years as a Head, I have lost count of the number of times I have seen 'curious' children be the ones who thrive most from challenge, be most ready to ask questions and happy to take on initiatives.

A privilege of parenthood is that opportunity to model and encourage curiosity in our children.

That does not mean planning ‘quality time’ activities but being open to wondering aloud, asking questions and not always knowing the answers. It’s about the importance of slowing down and making space for unstructured play and conversation. Merely asking “I wonder why?" and "What if?" without rushing to provide the answer are healthy prompts.

We are blessed to live in one of the world’s greatest cities, one that is constantly changing, underlain by layers of history. Walking presents the time to look up and out, to imagine and to explore. Why not visit all the history of Greenwich before walking beneath the Thames and on to modern London at Canary Wharf? Head up to the Horniman Museum and enjoy one of the best views from South London as you spot as many famous buildings as you can? Enjoy a stroll along the South Bank or further afield on the Thames

14 | SE21 - September 2026

Path to explore our city. Look closely at the names of our roads and consider what they tell us about the past.

Dulwich is surrounded by so many green spaces that allow us to be curious about nature.

Look to recognise signs of the changing seasons.

Find fallen conkers and acorns and grow one or two. Next summer collect and eat blackberries growing wild in our parks. Get closer to a range of farm animals at Surrey Docks Farm, Vauxhall City Farm, the Horniman Animal Walk or the Crystal Palace Park Farm.

Children are naturally curious about the world beyond the immediate and parents can sometimes be anxious about what they are exposed to. Limit what children may consume on social media and direct them to trustworthy resources specifically produced for children that are not afraid to tackle the big stories and mix them up with the frivolous and fun. The Week Junior, First News and, of course, BBC Newsround are all excellent sources of news for children that help to bring sense and greater understanding.

And finally… curiosity should be a joy and a celebration in itself. A healthy sense of wonder will undoubtedly benefit your child’s school education but try to avoid making overt connections and turning small moments of wonder into lessons!

Children do not need constant stimulation or perfect experiences to remain curious. Indeed, boredom is often the driver for curiosity.

Wonder grows from everyday moments, shared conversations and adults who do not always know the answer themselves.

Read, write &

Hi, I’m Tommy Rooney, owner of T Rooney Heating Limited, a family run gas and heating company. I was born and raised in Dulwich and have worked in the local area within the gas industry for over 10 years.

Please do not hesitate to contact me.

Boiler Installation • Boiler Services • Boiler Breakdowns • Radiator Installation • Emergency call outs • Gas Safety (landlord) Inspections

love music with

Herne Hill, Dulwich, Clapham

4-8 year old beginners, small groups Free trial & 10% off first term fees

www.trooneyheating.co.uk trooneyheating@gmail.com 07944921626

Instruments provided in every class!

www.funkymonkey.info

Help with School Fees Over 200 pupils have a freeor subsidised place

Find out more dulwich.org.uk/bursaries

SE21 - September 2026 | 15

Your Fitness

Fitness tips with Antonia Bannasch | www.bodyshotperformance.com

The September Reset Is a Con Here’s What Actually Works September. Your inbox is full of "reset" programmes, "30-day resets," reset teas, reset supplements, reset everything. Same as January but a different month.

Why The Reset Always Fails Resets fail because motivation was never the problem. Most people come back from summer with plenty of it. A few weeks of holiday food, wine and not much movement has a way of making you want to sort yourself out. The trouble is that motivation on its own doesn't hold. It's high right now, it'll dip in a fortnight, and if the whole plan depends on it staying high, the plan falls apart rather quickly.

We see this happen every January. Strava looked at their user data and found most people give up on their resolutions by the second Friday of the month they call it "Quitters' Day." By February, around 80% have dropped off. September resets tend to fizzle out the same way.

What Actually Works What actually works is far less exciting, and nobody's selling it because there's no product at the end of it. It's this: pick the smallest version of the habit you can do on a bad day and do that. Not the ideal version.

If you want to train three times a week, don't plan three perfect sessions. Plan three sessions you'd still do if you were tired, busy, and not in the mood. Two sets instead of four. Twenty minutes instead of sixty. A walk instead of a run. The point isn't the intensity, it's that the habit survives contact with a normal week. You can always add more but you cannot add more to something that's already collapsed.

There's a reason the "21 days to build a habit" line refuses to die. It's tidy, and it's wrong. The real figure, from a well-known UCL study that tracked people building a new daily habit over several months, put the average closer to 66 days, with 16 | SE21 - September 2026

some habits taking well over 200. And crucially, missing the odd day didn't derail anyone. It was the size of the ask, not the odd lapse, that decided whether a habit survived. That's the whole argument for starting smaller than feels worthwhile. Then you're working with the actual timeline instead of the fantasy one.

Why This Matters More As You Get Older This matters more as you get older, not less.

Resistance training in particular isn't a September nice-to-have. It's one of the few things directly protecting your muscle mass and bone density as you move through your thirties, forties and beyond. That's not a reason to smash yourself with an unsustainable new programme. It's a reason to build something boring enough to still be happening in March.

What You Need You need a system that you can actually keep running when the motivation inevitably disappears.

Pick a habit, do it on the good days and, more importantly, modify it on the bad ones. That's the whole trick.

Why not join these local companies & advertise in SE21 Magazine?

Dulwich Carpet Care, Dulwich College, Home Instead Carers, Herne Hill School, Mac Support and many more ....

To find out how your company can benefit from advertising with SE Magazines, call Angela Burgess on 020 8693 9040 0r e-mail: angela@semagazines.co.uk www.semagazines.co.uk

Call now for FREE consultation

020 8338 0189 or 0800 092 1068

Please feel free to email me your queries at:

info@sspcrepair.co.uk

30 Local & International Artists in One Incredible Group Exhibition at Ben Oakley Gallery

John McCarthy ‘The Goodbye Look’

Free Preview Evening Thursday 10th September As we melt into the second half of the year in our new premises at 20 North Cross Road, East Dulwich, SE22 9EU and with the Gallery’s ‘open to all’ eclectic approach, we have curated the must see group show of the year so far.

Sponsored by Three Hounds Beer Co. Exhibition runs until 4th October 2026 Sign up for monthly updates at: www.benoakleygallery.com / benoakleygallery_ 07976 692 751 / info@benoakleygallery.com

Opening Times: Wednesday – Saturday: 10:30am – 6pm / Sundays: 10.30am – 4.30pm SE21 - September 2026 | 17

18 | SE21 - September 2026

SE21 - September 2026 | 19

4.30pm - 7.30pm 1.30pm - 6.30pm 4.30pm - 7.00pm 4.30pm - 7.00pm

• Wednesday 23rd September • Wednesday 14th October • Wednesday 4th November • Wednesday 25th November

Year 11 Open Day Events 2026 for Year 12 Entry September 2027

9.30am - 8.00pm 10.00am - 6.00pm 9.30am - 8.00pm 9.30am - 8.00pm 10.00am - 6.00pm 9.30am - 8.00pm 10.00am - 6.00pm

• Wednesday 16th September • Saturday 19th September • Wednesday 23rd September • Wednesday 30th September • Saturday 3rd October • Wednesday 7th October • Saturday 10th October

Year 6 Open Day Event Dates 2026 for Year 7 Entry September 2027

Financial Matters

With David Frederick FCCA | Marcus Bishop Associates | marcus-bishop.com

The £50 Habit: That Builds Financial Confidence

F

inancial improvement does not require dramatic action! Surprise! Shock! Horror!

However, that is a widely held view by most people. It does mean the arrival of cancellation culture; cancelling holidays, cutting joy, or living under a strict budget that feels more like punishment than progress.

Real financial improvement does not even begin with big sacrifices. It starts with something much smaller, gentler, and far more achievable: a £50 habit. The Roman poet Ovid wrote: "Dripping water hollows out stone, not through force but through persistence." Financial improvement like stone, is shaped not by dramatic moments but by small actions repeated consistently over time.

Personal financial improvement can begin with just one intentional monthly change which can save or earn you £50 each month. It needs not be an earth shattering change to our lifestyle or some obsessive spreadsheet exercise. All that is required is just one purposeful adjustment that nudges your financial wellbeing forward. Over a year, that’s £600. Over five years, £3,000.

Review Your Subscriptions How many times have you signed up for a three month trial subscription and six months later that forgotten subscription is quietly draining £10 - £20 a month. It may be that streaming service you no longer use, or that app trial that became a paid plan, or a gym membership that has seen you since week three of January! Cancel one, and you’ve already made your first £50 habit feel effortless.

Switch One Weekly Spend How about swapping a weekly take-away coffee for a homemade one. That’s £3 or £4 saved each time - around £13-£17 pcm - without losing the pleasure of the drink itself.

Sell One Unused Item 20 | SE21 - September 2026

What do you have sat at home in your cupboard that you can dispose of for £20 - £50? An unused former shiny object or clothing or whatever?

Disposing of one item is not just about the money – it’s about decluttering and recognising the value trapped in things you no longer use or will never use.

Renegotiate A Bill Has your broadband, insurance, mobile contracts quietly crept up over time? A short telephone call may save £5 - £15 a month. Providers are quite happy when customers remain silent. Prove them wrong.

Plan Three Meals A Week This is not a full meal preparation or some new fad diet. Just three planned meals. It reduces waste, cuts impulse buying, and can save £10 £15 a month. Planning gives you back control of your money.

Once you’ve built the habit, automate it; set up a saving pot to automatically receive the £50 on pay day. Your confidence boost comes not from the amount, but from the consistency.

You’re now telling your future self: “I matter.”

The real value is not the money but the mindset shift. Suddenly, you can see your financial future is not fixed but shaped by your small, consistent choices. Financial wellbeing isn’t about perfection. It’s about purpose. The £50 habit is not the end but just the start of your financial improvement journey.

SE21 - September 2026 | 21

What's On - September Saturday 5, 12, 19 & 26 September: Peckham Farmers' Market 9.30am-3pm

Sundays 6, 13, 20 & 27 September: Peckham Rye Junior Park Run 9am – 9:30am A free, weekly, timed run for 4–14-year-olds, to get fit, stay healthy and have fun! We run 2km every Sunday morning at 9am, through rain and shine. The course is visible, well-marshalled, and all held on the paths around the sports pitches.

Peckham Rye Park, Colyton Road, SE22 0NE. www.parkrun.org.uk/peckhamrye-juniors/

Peckham’s Bellenden Road gets a new weekly food destination as Peckham Farmers Market.

We’ve got an amazing line-up for you. Let’s first start by introducing Wild Country Organics, a certified organic, soil association certified family run farm growing an exceptional breadth of seasonal produce, far beyond the limited range of supermarket offerings. This includes over 40 varieties of tomatoes, differing types of Pak Choi, mustard greens and much more. This is the freshest, most nutritious produce available, the time between harvest and sale is kept as small as possible to ensure maximum freshness.

With seating, music and a carefully curated trader line-up, Peckham Farmers Market aims to become a weekly ritual for residents, a place to shop, eat, drink and connect, right in the heart of the neighbourhood.

The Belham Primary School, Bellenden Road, Peckham, SE15 4DG.

Sunday 6th September: Linkage Southwark Open Garden 6 –9pm Bring your picnic blanket and listen to some lively and light-hearted music in this tranquil garden, tucked away in a small cul-de-sac. The garden is mainly laid to lawn, with herbaceous borders featuring dahlias in particular, and backs onto woodland. Wine, prosecco and soft drinks available to buy as well has hot sausages in rolls and a choice of pudding.

Wood Cottage, Dome Hill Park, London SE26 6SP. £25 tickets available to purchase at: www.linkagesouthwark.org/Event/woodcottage-open-gardens" 22 | SE21 - September 2026

Sundays 6, 13, 20 & 27 September: Horniman Market 10am – 3pm. Located on the Bandstand Terrace, you will find stalls selling seasonal fruit and vegetables, artisan bread and cheese, organic meat, and delicious street food. If that’s not enough to have you feeling like our overstuffed walrus, we also have regular guest traders specialising in treats such as luxury chocolates, delightful drinks, irresistible cakes, and tasty pickle and preserves. www.horniman.ac.uk/ 100 London Road, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ.

Sunday 6 September: One Tree Hill Allotments Open Day 12.30pm-6pm. Attractions include tea, cakes, jams, chutneys and other produce; guided walks; kids' activities; apple pressing; and live music. The views from the top of the hill are lovely, but getting there is via narrow paths and occasionally a few steps, so bear that in mind.

Seating and full access at the bottom of the site where the main tea stall and food are. One Tree Hill Allotments, Honor Oak Park, SE23 3NP.

Sunday 6 September: Deep Rest Gong Bath Brockley 6pm-7pm. Imagine stepping into a tranquil and intimate space, laying down on a yoga mat, and allowing the soothing and evocative vibrations of the gong to wash over you. Your body will be invited into a deep state rest, while your overactive mind will get an opportunity to switch off and invite in a sense of calm and clarify.

Booking Link: bit.ly/4zgP6uq andosteo, 179 Brockley Road, Brockley, SE4 2RS 24

Open Events Full and Weekly Boarding available Entry into Reception (4+), Year 1 (5+) and Year 2 (6+) Entry into Year 3 (7+), Year 4 (8+) and Year 5 (9+) Entry into Year 7 (11+), Year 9 (13+) and Year 12 (16+)

Book your place dulwich.org.uk/admissions Bursaries of up to 100% and Academic Scholarships of up to one third of full fees are available.

SE21 - September 2026 | 23

What's On - September Monday 7 September: An Evening with Robert Harris

7.30pm-8.30pm. Robert Harris returns to Ancient Rome with his latest thriller Agrippa. Julius Caesar is dead, and the lives of two teenaged boys are about to be changed forever. One is Caesar’s 17-year-old nephew, Octavius, whom he has made his heir. The other is Octavius’s closest friend, Agrippa.

To claim Octavius’s inheritance, they must fight the giant figures of the Roman Empire – and, against all odds, they win. Octavius becomes the Emperor Augustus. For twenty years, they rule the world together. Now Agrippa is fifty. Ailing and alone, betrayed by his wife’s infidelity, he takes refuge in his house on the Bay of Naples and begins to write his memoirs. Yet to stir up the past can be dangerous. From his earliest meetings with Julius Caesar, through the epic conflict with Mark Antony and Cleopatra, the great naval battle of Actium and the endless wars to expand the empire, he describes how one man has dominated his life: the cunning, ruthless, unknowable Octavius. When it comes to power, does friendship exist at all?

Robert Harris is the author of sixteen bestselling novels: the Cicero Trilogy – Imperium, Lustrum and Dictator – Fatherland, Enigma, Archangel, Pompeii, The Ghost, The Fear Index, An Officer and a Spy, which won four prizes including the Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction, Conclave, Munich, The Second Sleep, V2, Act of Oblivion and Precipice. His work has been translated into forty languages and nine of his books have been adapted for cinema and television.

A Village Books event in association with Alleyn’s School Enterprises.

The MCT, Townley Road, East Dulwich, SE22 8SU. Tickets https://www.trybooking.com/uk/events/ landing/110904.

24 | SE21 - September 2026

Wednesday 9 September: EDWI: Mindful Drawing with Suzanne Pink 7.30pm-9.30pm We are excited to welcome Suzanne Pink for a craft evening of Mindful Pattern Drawing. Drawing has a transformative power. For exploring and clarifying thoughts. For communicating and distilling complex ideas. For wellbeing. Suzanne has 15 years of experience as a primary teacher, and this is complemented by her skills as a professional illustrator and designer. The session will take 1.5 hours - please come from 7:30pm - we start at 8pm. All materials are provided, including example sheets. Guest fee for this event, including all materials is £15 (cash only). We welcome new members; the pro rata membership for the year to 31st March 2027 is £40.50 for ladies joining in September. We have 12 events a year, a book club, and arrange some other events from time to time. Please email: join@eastdulwichwi.co.uk for information.

The Castle Pub, Upstairs Function room, 280 Crystal Palace Road, East Dulwich, SE22 9JJ.

Thursday 10 September: Simple Too: An Evening with Yotam Ottolenghi 7.30pm-8.30pm For the millions of home cooks who loved Ottolenghi Simple, discover the pleasure of keeping things Simple Too. Bring Yotam’s innovation to your everyday with 135 new recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert.

Every dish has simplicity at its core and can be made in under 30 minutes, cooked in one pot, or prepped ahead. Whatever your barriers to cooking, this book brings you into the kitchen with a promise that even the simplest of meals can be full of flavour and joy.

Yotam is the chef-patron of the Ottolenghi restaurant group and author of eleven bestselling cookery books. He has been a columnist for the Saturday Guardian since 2006 and is a regular contributor to the New York Times Magazine.

A Village Books event in association with James Allen’s Girls’ School. The Vaughan Williams Auditorium, 144 East Dulwich Grove, SE22 8TE. Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/uk/ events/landing/105862.

What's On - September Thursday 10 September: Alpha Course 7pm-9.15pm The Alpha Course starts from 10 September to 28th November, mostly Thursday evenings from 7pm-9.15pm in the John Paul Centre Parish Hall.

The session begins with a meal. It is a welcoming and non-judgmental space to explore life's big questions. Whether you are new to Catholicism, returning to the church, exploring and deepening your faith or simply new and curious about God. For further information and to register: dulwichevangelisation@rcaos.org.uk.

St Thomas More Church in the John Paul Centre Parish Hall, 380 Lordship Lane, SE22 8ND

Thursdays 10, 18 & 25 September: Goose Green Lunch Club 12.30pm-2pm The lunch club is a friendly and informal club for people over 55. We meet every Thursday during term time and enjoy a delicious main course and dessert with tea and coffee for £5. If you’re interested in joining us for lunch or if you would like to volunteer with us, please call: Martin on 07939 288885 or Barbara on 0208 693 2090.

Goose Green Centre, 62A East Dulwich Road, SE22 9AT.

Thursday 10 September: What have we done? Free Preview Evening 7pm-9pm 30 local & international Artists in one amazing group exhibition at Ben Oakley Gallery.

As we melt into the second half of the year in our new premises at 20 North Cross Road, East Dulwich, SE22 9EU and with the Gallery’s ‘open to all’ eclectic approach, we have curated the must see group show of the year so far. www.benoakleygallery.com benoakleygallery_ 07976 692 751 / info@benoakleygallery.com Sponsored by Three Hounds Beer Co. EXHIBITION RUNS UNTIL 4TH OCTOBER 2026 Opening Times: Wednesday – Saturday: 10:30am – 6pm Sundays: 10.30am – 4.30pm

Sunday 13 September: The Goose Is Out! Singaround at The Castle 7pm-10.30pm If you like singing, come to our Singaround! It is very informal and participative. We take it in turns to sing a song - any genre, any language.

Everybody is welcome. You don't have to be a "good singer", and you can just listen if you want. £5 on the door (cash or BACS only). www.thegooseisout.com The Castle, 280 Crystal Palace Road, SE22 9JJ.

Tuesday 15 September: Richard Dadd at the Royal Academy 7pm-8.30pm

Richard Dadd is one of the most celebrated of Victorian artists, despite having spent most of his career in asylums - first Bethlem Hospital in London and then Broadmoor. Dadd is the subject of a major exhibition (Beyond Bedlam, now until 25 October 2026) at the Royal Academy in London. The curator of the exhibition, Nicholas Tromans, is an expert on Dadd’s work and in this talk, he will be sharing the latest research on the artist and giving insights into the process of assembling the exhibition, the most ambitious display of Dadd’s work for over fifty years. https://www.bellhouse.co.uk.

Bell House Dulwich, 27 College Road, SE21 7BG.

Saturday 19 - Sunday 20 September: Dulwich Quilters Exhibition 10am-5pm Celebrating 40 years. Entry £5. Children free.

Bell House Dulwich, 27 College Road, SE21 7BG. https://www.bellhouse.co.uk.

SE21 - September 2026 | 25

26

What's On - September Sunday 20 September: Deep Rest Gong Bath Brockley

Friday 25 September: Cohen Braithwaite-Kilcoyne

6pm-7pm. Imagine stepping into a tranquil and intimate space, laying down on a yoga mat, and allowing the soothing and evocative vibrations of the gong to wash over you. Your body will be invited into a deep state rest, while your overactive mind will get an opportunity to switch off and invite in a sense of calm and clarify.

Booking Link: bit.ly/4zgP6uq andosteo, 179 Brockley Road, Brockley, SE4 2RS.

Monday 21 September: Dulwich WI Monthly Meeting

7pm-11pm. Cohen Braithwaite-Kilcoyne is a powerful and commanding singer and a masterful player of the melodeon and the Anglo concertina. His music is rooted in the English folk tradition of ballads, songs and tunes, with a smattering of early music, music hall, ragtime and the music of the Caribbean. Supports are John Haseler, an excellent local singer of mainly traditional songs, and The Ashen Keys, with a multi-voiced celebration of heartfelt storytelling songs from Kent. £14 advance, £16 on the door (cash or BACS only). For more information about the artists, the evening, the Goose and tickets, please see: www.thegooseisout.com

7.30pm-9.30pm. Launched in 2018, the Dulwich WI is a supportive and stimulating group for women of all ages and backgrounds. We would love to meet you and look forward to welcoming you at No 57, 57 North Cross Road, SE22 9ET. https://dulwichwi.com.

Saturday 26 September: Dyslexia - Beyond the Page

Tuesday 22nd September: The Dulwich Society presents a talk by historian Brian Green At 8pm. Marking the 400th Anniversary of the death of Edward Alleyn (1566 – 1626). Did Edward Alleyn introduce dynamic ticket pricing at his new Fortune Theatre? Why did he marry a twenty-year-old Constance, five months after the death of Joan, his wife of thirty-one years?

How did Alleyn manage to recite a public speech of welcome on behalf of the City of London to the new sovereign, James 1st without the aid of microphone? The answers to these and many other lesser-known facts will be recalled by Brian Green who has made a close study of this extraordinary man at a talk at Christ’s Chapel of Alleyn’s College of God’s Gift at Dulwich, on the spot where he was buried 400 years ago.

Christ’s Chapel of Alleyn’s College of God’s Gift Dulwich Gallery Road, Dulwich, SE21 7AS. ADMISSION FREE, NO BOOKING REQUIRED.

Submit your events for free via our website: www.semagazines.co.uk 26 | SE21 - September 2026

The Ivy House, 40 Stuart Road, Nunhead, SE15 3BE.

9.45am to 4pm. We are excited to invite you to this year’s Bell House Dyslexia Fair, the FREE family- focused community event bringing together parents and carers, children and young people, individuals with dyslexia, and experienced specialists in a welcoming and inclusive setting.

As always, this year’s Dyslexia Fair is generously supported by Southwark Council.

Our family-friendly program is once again packed with hands-on activities, fun-filled workshops, expert-led talks, and specialists ready to share knowledge and advice. You will find plenty of opportunities to seek advice, pick up ideas, connect with others and exchange experiences.

This highly popular, inclusive event is the perfect opportunity to learn, share, and grow alongside others who understand the challenges and strengths of dyslexia. Please, come and join us for practical ideas, expert insights and connection, in a beautiful and welcoming space.

Tickets are for this FREE community event. Follow us on Eventbrite (Bell House) to be notified when they are available at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk.

Register for the Dyslexia Newsletter on our website to be the first to hear all the Bell House Dyslexia Fair news at: https://www.bellhouse.co.uk/dyslexia-support Bell House, 27 College Road, Dulwich, SE21 7BG.

What's On - September Saturday 26 September: The Aim was Song - Concert 7.30pm-9.30pm. A concert of a cappella music celebrating the fusion of words and music in songs of farewell, hope and despair, love and longing, and loss. Texts by Yeats, Frost, Campion, St Therese of Lisieux, and others; music by Byrd, Victoria, Tippett, Parry, Poulenc, Aznavour, Ansdell-Evans and others, and a specially commissioned setting of Frost’s “The Aim was Song “by Helena Paish. Sung by a small a cappella choir featuring young professional singers and students at the London conservatories and conducted by Nicholas Ansdell-Evans.

St Stephen's Church, College Road, SE21 7HW Tickets via www.eventbrite.co.uk.

Saturday 26 September: Autumn Artisan Craft & Makers Fayre 11am-4pm

Join us at St Barnabas Hall, Dulwich Village for a gorgeous day of independent shopping, with 35+ talented makers, creators and artists all under one roof. Discover unique gifts, handmade treasures and beautiful products you simply won’t find on the high street.

St Barnabas Hall, 23 Dulwich Village, SE21 7BT https://www.lkpopupfayres.com SHOP SMALL • SUPPORT LOCAL • MEET THE MAKERS

Monday 28 September: Bach to Baby 10.30am-11.15am Bach to Baby is the acclaimed concert series for the whole family to enjoy together. Featuring outstanding musicians and exhilarating performances in inspiring venues right on your doorstep. Programme for this concert date will be announced shortly. BOOK DIRECTLY AT: https://www.bachtobaby.com/dulwich-villagemusic-concerts-for-baby-and-family St. Barnabas Church, Calton Avenue, SE21 7DG.

Wednesday 30 September: Down Burrow Lane: Life and Love on the Farm by Michael Morpurgo 7.30pm-8.30pm

Join Village Books for an evening with Michael and Clare Morpurgo who will be discussing Michael's memoir Down Burrow Lane: Life and Love on the Farm. Fifty years ago, Michael and Clare put their young family in the car and moved to Nethercott Farm, deep in rural Devon.

This magical farm was where the young schoolteacher Michael became a writer, and it would become the backdrop and inspiration for many of his books, including War Horse and Private Peaceful. Michael and Clare raised their family here, and grew up themselves. They also invited some 100,000 children from towns and cities to come to the countryside and experience life on a working farm as part of their charity Farms for City Children.

This is the story of the ups and downs of Michael and Clare's remarkable life on the farm over the last five decades. A journey through the seasons and years that have shaped the land around them, and the remarkable children who have been forever changed by their experiences.

In association with Alleyn's Schools Enterprises.

The MCT, Townley Road, East Dulwich, SE22 8SU. TICKETS: https://www.trybooking.com/uk/ events/landing/118955.

Submit your events for free via our website: www.semagazines.co.uk SE21 - September 2026 | 27

The Dulwich Society

400th Anniversary of the death of Edward Alleyn (1566 – 1626) A talk by historian Brian Green TUESDAY 22ND SEPTEMBER AT 8PM Did Edward Alleyn introduce dynamic ticket pricing at his new Fortune Theatre?

Why did he marry a twenty-year-old Constance, five months after the death of Joan, his wife of thirtyone years? How did Alleyn manage to recite a public speech of welcome on behalf of the City of London to the new sovereign, James 1st without the aid of microphone?

The answers to these and many other lesser-known facts will be recalled by Brian Green who has made a close study of this extraordinary man at a talk at Christ’s Chapel of Alleyn’s College of God’s Gift at Dulwich, on the spot where he was buried 400 years ago.

Christ’s Chapel of Alleyn’s College of God’s Gift at Dulwich, Gallery Road, Dulwich, SE21 7AS.

ADMISSION FREE, NO BOOKING REQUIRED. 28 | SE21 - September 2026

Volunteer Drivers Needed

F

or 30 years, Link Age Southwark has eased loneliness and reduced social isolation for local older people and those living with a diagnosis of dementia. Today, they urgently need more volunteer drivers like Mark.

Every Thursday, he collects four older women, from very different backgrounds, driving them to and from singing sessions run by the charity.

“I enjoy listening to them chat when I’m driving them. Hearing about their lives and families is fascinating – they may have limited mobility now, but one of them told me that at 18 she’d been a long jump champion!

They seem to really appreciate the interaction – they’ll ask about my sons, my dogs – it’s lovely to just be me. I retired last year from a very highpressure career where I was constantly ‘on call’.

I wanted to explore other aspects of what I can bring to the world.

Link Age Southwark needed drivers. I have a roomy car, and it was an opportunity to give my

HartBeeps Mondays at Christ Church, 263 Barry Road, East Dulwich, SE22 0JT. Mondays 10am Happy House, 11.15am Baby Beeps & 12.30pm Baby Bells.. http://hartbeeps.com

Family Space Free, creative workshops that take place on the last Saturday of the month at the South London Gallery, 6567 Peckham Road. For children aged 5-12 years old with their parents and carers. Drop-in, no need to book. www.southlondongallery.org

Little Superhero Training

Practice your Superhero moves! Discover Superhero fun facts!

Any Little Heroes, Boys and Girls aged 2 - 5, Come along for a FREE taster session. Mondays & Fridays (term time only) St Barnabas Parish Hall, 23 Dulwich Village, SE21 7BT. Contact Lucy 07813 791757 | lucy@littleherocompany.com www.littleherocompany.com

Mini Athletics (SE London) Winning the gold medal for children’s sports classes! Start your child’s fantastic journey in athletic development, designed for toddlers up to children of 7 years old. All through a fun play-based format. To try us out, contact Sam: 07811787153 | smcdermott@miniathletics.com www.miniathletics.com

brain a rest, whilst hopefully making a difference.

Being a volunteer driver makes me feel good: you’re taking time – listening and being there for others.”

To find out more about becoming a Link Age Southwark volunteer, contact 020 8299 2623; volunteering@linkagesouthwark.org or visit: www.linkagesouthwark.org

Nature Makers Eco-friendly crafting for little creatives! Join our awardwinning classes & events, where your child can get creative, connect with nature, and have fun in a safe, welcoming environment!

Contact: marie@nature-makers.co.uk or visit: www.nature-makers.co.uk

Tennis-4-Kids Learn young, have fun. Rally around for a smashing time.

Serving ages 3-11. Rackets supplied; fun guaranteed.

Gordon 07877 391005 | www.tennis-4-kids.com | gordonwood@hotmail.co.uk

‘Unicornios y Dinosaurios’ Fun and interactive Spanish language play classes, for children aged 0-5, and their parents and carers. Thursdays mornings (term-time only) in East Dulwich. Suitable for all levels of Spanish! Contact Hazel on 07852 553 239 or hazelcarr@ hotmail.com.

Your Class Here

If you would like to advertise your children’s class here, please e-mail angela@semagazines.co.uk for details.

SE21 - September 2026 | 29

Ripe Old Age

Practical Advice for Navigating Later Life with Michael Scott | rightathome.co.uk/mitcham

Keeping Young at Heart – Why Frank Sinatra Still Had It Right "Fairy tales can come true, it can happen to you, if you're young at heart." Frank Sinatra's classic song Young at Heart has been loved for generations, but its message is about much more than music. It reminds us that growing older does not mean giving up curiosity, optimism or the enjoyment of life. In fact, modern research suggests that staying "young at heart" can have real psychological and physical benefits. Being young at heart is not about pretending you are twenty again. It is about keeping a positive outlook, being willing to try new things, laughing often and continuing to take an interest in the world around you. Age is measured in years, but youthfulness is often measured by attitude.

Optimistic Mindset People who maintain an optimistic mindset tend to cope better with life's challenges. They are more likely to stay socially connected, continue learning and remain engaged with family, friends and their local community. These things help reduce feelings of loneliness and can improve confidence, self-esteem and emotional wellbeing.

There are physical benefits too. People who stay active both mentally and socially are often encouraged to remain physically active as well.

Whether it's enjoying a walk around Dulwich Park, joining a local coffee morning, learning to use new technology or simply trying a new hobby, keeping the mind engaged often helps keep the body moving. Regular activity can improve balance, strength, heart health and mobility while helping to maintain independence for longer. A youthful attitude can also make everyday setbacks easier to manage. Instead of focusing on limitations, people who are young at heart often concentrate on what they can do.

30 | SE21 - September 2026

They celebrate small achievements, keep their sense of humour and are more willing to adapt as circumstances change.

The Best is Yet to Come Of course, none of us can stop the ageing process, but we can choose how we approach it. Sinatra sang that "the best is yet to come" and while life inevitably brings challenges, many older people discover new friendships, interests and opportunities that they never expected.

Retirement can become the start of a new chapter rather than the end of an old one. So perhaps Frank Sinatra was right all along. Staying young at heart is not about denying your age—it's about embracing life with enthusiasm, kindness and hope. And that's a philosophy worth holding onto at any stage of life.

GRAPHIC DESIGN SERVICES

for your business

LOCAL

EVENTS ADD YOUR LOCAL EVENTS TO OUR WEBSITE VIA THE LINK ON OUR WEBSITE OR SCAN THE QR CODE. IT IS ABSOLUTELY FREE! EVENTS WILL BE LISTED IN OUR MAGAZINES.

www.semagazines.co.uk

Logo Design, Branding, Advertisements, Brochures, Leaflets, Flyers, Posters, Illustration, Concepts, Artwork & more ......

Call Stephen on 07891 061118 design@stephenshillito.co.uk www.stephenshillito.co.uk

Mitcham Streatham and Dulwich “We, as a family are delighted with this service in every respect.

All staff are incredibly caring, kind, patient, attentive, vigilant and trustworthy people and their skills in this difficult field are exceptional” Sally T Daughter-in-Law

0208 004 9644

www.rightathome.co.uk/mitcham SE21 - September 2026 | 31

The Last Word with Anne Lynch RWS I am a painter and member of the Royal Watercolour Society, living in Brockley.

Originally from Scotland, I moved to London in the 1970s and have exhibited regularly ever since, including in France and the USA.

How long have you lived in the area?

I’m originally from Edinburgh and moved to London in the 1970s. I’ve always lived in South London, where I raised my family. My children went to school in Dulwich, and I moved from West Norwood to Brockley in 1989.

What do you most value about the area?

I love the quiet area around Hilly Fields, with its trees and so many places within walking distance, including Dream Story and Sundae for ice cream.

There’s a strong community feel and, at my age, I particularly appreciate seeing so many families with young children – it adds enormously to the life and character of the area. I’m also only 15 minutes from central London, which is important as I regularly visit galleries and the theatre.

The one thing you couldn’t do without?

Green spaces and community. There’s also a wonderful artistic community here and I love meeting and talking to new people. I spend quite a lot of time in France and Saffron Walden, but always love returning to South London.

Your favourite place for a night out?

We loved going to the Rivoli Ballroom for a jive night – great fun!

What is your favourite place to eat?

One of my favourites is Spinach, with its cosy interior, interesting menu and cheery atmosphere.

I used to love the Blue Mountain Café when my children were young, which is now the fabulous Elvis. I also love the Blue Brick Café, which has a similarly relaxed, friendly feel.

Coffee or tea? Where?

I’m a great tea drinker and love a cup of tea in Dulwich Park, where I often meet my grandchildren, or at Dulwich Picture Gallery. For coffee, it has to be Forest in East Dulwich. It’s run by the lovely Fran and her daughters, and my grandson works there on Saturdays, so do check it out!

32 | SE21 - September 2026

Where’s your favourite place to walk?

Spoilt for choice! I often walk in Dulwich Park, but also love Peckham Rye Park, with its surprising variety of plants, pond and different moods.

Nunhead Cemetery is another hidden gem.

What is your favourite shop?

Difficult to choose! I love browsing in Celestial and Oliver Bonas in East Dulwich. I also really appreciate the haberdashery shop – such a useful local store – along with Chener Books, a real neighbourhood gem.

What was the last thing you bought there?

At Oliver Bonas I bought some fabulous rustcoloured and white checked wide trousers and a pale blue top. From Chener Books I bought The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese. They all came on holiday with me to France! annelynch.com | @annelynchartwork

SE21 - September 2026 | 33

Index of Advertisers AIMS Accountants for Business ................................11 AHKO Ltd: Property Health Check ...............................7 AHKO Ltd: Client Representation .................................7 Alleyn’s Oakfield School ............................................13 Anne Lynch: A Solo Exhibition...................................11 Art Show and Writer’s Talk...........................................7 Ben Oakley Gallery: Exhibition...................................17 Circle Psychology Partners.........................................21 Climate Resilient Gravel Gardens...............................13 DIY Alcove Cabinets......................................................7 Dulwich Carpet Company .........................................35 Free Event Listings with SE Magazines......................31 Dulwich College: Bursaries.........................................23 Dulwich College: Open Events...................................15 Dulwich Prep & Senior School: Open House.............33 Extra Mile Athletes: Silverfit Classes..........................11

Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes..............................15 Herne Hill School .........................................................5 Home Instead Senior Care ....................................Back Kingsdale Foundation School: Open Day Events .............................................18 & 19 Popchoir: Autumn Term ............................................21 Right at Home: Trusted Care & Companionship........31 Robert Cox French Polishing......................................13 SE Magazines: Local Business Advertising................17 SS PC Repairs ............................................................17 Silverfit Classes...........................................................11 St Dunstan’s: Open Day ..............................................1 Stephen Shillito Graphic Design.................................31 Sydenham & Dulwich Girls GDST: Open Day................2 T Rooney Heating.......................................................15 The Urban Greening Project: Gravel Gardens.............13

If you contact any of our advertisers, please do say you saw them in SE21. Thank you!

Next Issue - October | Copy Deadline - 15 September

If you would like to advertise in our next issue (or SE22 and SE23), you can download our rates from our website or just get in touch with Angela on 020 8693 9040.

www.semagazines.co.uk 34 | SE21 - September 2026

Specialists in sustainable, family friendly and moth resistant carpets “I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Stephen.

He has just fitted a new carpet for us upstairs and did an absolutely first-class job. Everything was done to an extremely high standard. He clearly takes great pride in his work, has great attention to quality and detail, and also fantastic to deal with – super professional, personable and helpful.”

Alison, Dulwich

Get in touch Call now to arrange your free consultation:

020 8693 8101 or 07507 407 289

stephen@dulwichcarpetcompany.co.uk

www.dulwichcarpetcompany.co.uk

Personalised compassionate home care Our Care Professionals are carefully chosen and matched to your individual needs, providing continuity, compassion and someone who really cares.

Our Services include: Dementia care Companionship Home Help Personal Care Live in & respite care Overnight care

Get in touch today Call 020 8871 0006 Email enquiries@hiscwandsworth.co.uk Visit our website homeinstead.co.uk/

wandsworth-lambeth

Member Each Home Instead® franchise office is independently owned and operated. Copyright© Home Instead 2025.