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Welcome to SE22

Another year is almost over and it feels good to be getting ready for Christmas. I hope that all SE22 readers have a restful time.

As usual I have rounded up all the great events taking place in and around Dulwich. The events pages start on page 6. December is another busy month for events, so we have an amazing 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.

Link Age Southwark launch their Big Give Christmas Challenge with the opportunity to raise £21,500 in just 1 week! Full details pages 28 & 29. I am hoping to make a great donation with the funds I raise from the Dulwich Charity Lunch, which I am really pleased to be running again this year. Ther are a few tickets left, see page 25 for details. As always I am on the look out for prizes for the raffle and auction!

The Last Word this month goes to Jackie Edwards who works locally as an intergrative Counsellor. Read 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! Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Until next time.

Angela

Angela Burgess Head of All Things Community SE Magazines/Around Dulwich

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

@semags_arounddulwich

@SEMagazines

@SEMags_ADulwich

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!

January Deadline - 12 December (please allow an extra two days if design is required)

To advertise in SE22 please contact Angela Burgess on 020 8693 9040 or e-mail: angela@semagazines.co.uk for further information. You can download our rates from our website: www.semagazines.co.uk.

Photographby Portrayed Photography

Events Calendar - December

Further details where available can be found in the News and Events pages 6, 8, 9, 18, 19, 26, 27 & 30. Please read as not all the events can fit on the calendar!

Dulwich WI, see page 30.

EDWI - Christmas Table Decoration & Party, see p26.

parkruns, see p18.

Goose Green Coffee Mornings, p8. Goose Green Coffee Mornings, p8.

Junior parkruns, see p196.

Men Walk Talk, p18.

So Last Century’s Vintage Fair p28.

ECHOES - Solo Exhibition by Clare Emily, see p9.

Dulwich Park Runners see p6.

Dulwich Park Runners see p8.

Goose Green Coffee Mornings, p8.

The Weekly Horniman Market p26.

Honor Oak WI meeting p6.

Goose Green Lunch Club, see p9.

Sourdough Social, see p6.

Wine Sessions, see p8.

Wine Sessions, see p9.

Caravaggio p9.

Lewisham Underwater Hockey Club p9.

Carols for St Christopher’s, see p27.

Weekly Wine Sessions, see p8.

Junior parkruns, p19.

Gong Bath, see p27.

London City Singers p18.

Junior parkruns, p19.

Singaround, p27.

parkruns, see p18.

Lewisham Underwater Hockey Club p9.

Awaken Your Magic, see p8.

So Last Century Market, p18.

Seasonal Bread Baking Masterclass, p18.

Havelock Walk Winter Weekend p19.

Bach to Baby Christmas Family Concert, p6.

Gong Bath, see p68.

Dulwich Charity Lunch, see p27.

Jingle Bells Beginners’ Music Workshop, see p30.

Christmas Wreath Workshop, see p26.

One Tree Hill Choir Christmas Concert, see p30.

Festive Christmas Gong Bath, p30.

The Illusioneer @ Bell House, p30.

Christmas Day Boxing Day

Christmas Eve

New Year’s Eve

Bach to Baby Christmas Family Concert, p6.

Dulwich Park Runners see p6.

Goose Green Coffee Mornings, p8.

BNI Adventures p8.

Goose Green Lunch Club, see p9.

Lewisham Underwater Hockey Club p9.

ECHOES - Solo Exhibition by Clare Emily, see p9.

Cockpit Winter Open Studios, see p9.

Another Christmas at Bell House: A Brush with Art, see p9.

The Weekly Horniman Market p26.

Winter Market Place, see p27.

Christmas Bookstall, see p27.

MAMA Codes Winter Holiday Coding Camps, see p30.

The Illusioneer @ Bell House, p30.

Rosie Reilly Plumber

Emotionally Intelligent Parenting Course 2026

A six-session parenting programme for parents of children aged 11-18 years

Delivered by two HCPC registered child psychologists

WOULD YOU LIKE TO LEARN HOW TO:

• Be better at talking with your teen?

• Be better at understanding your teen?

• Help your teen learn to manage their emotions?

• Help to prevent behaviour problems in your teen?

• Teach your teen to deal with conflict?

Tuning in to Teens® shows you how to use emotion coaching to help your teen develop their emotional intelligence .

WHERE: Rivoli Meeting Room, Unit E, 59 Ladywell Road, SE13 7UT

WHEN: 7pm - 9.15pm on 23rd & 30th January, 6th February, 13th, 20th & 27th March 2026

To find out more & to book a place please visit: https://bit.ly/4p8XsP5

What's On - December

Monday 1 December:

Sourdough Social in South

London 7pm-8.30pm

Taste homemade sourdough from Elise and kimchi from Loz, meet new people, and chat all things fermentation. It’s a relaxed social, not a workshop — come for the flavour, stay for the community. Tickets via: www.eventbrite.co.uk. Kingswood Road, Penge, SE20 7BL.

Tuesday 2 & 9 December:

Bach to Baby Christmas

Family Concert

10.30am-11.30am

From Vivaldi's iconic Four Seasons: Winter concerto through to Tchaikovsky's enchanting Sugar Plum Fairy, explore the drama of the changing seasons with some feisty foot-tapping melodies. Magical music, festive frolics, sparkles and spices, oh my! Grab your family, harness up your fastest reindeer and meet us at a Bach to Baby concert for the perfect prelude to the holiday season! Book directly from our website. www.bachtobaby.com. St. John the Evangelist, 62A East Dulwich Road, East Dulwich, SE22 9AT.

Tuesdays 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30

December: Weekly Online

Breathing Class 7pm – 7.40pm

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 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30

December: 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

Tuesday 2 December: 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. We meet Monthly on the first Tuesday of the month. We also have a book club, craft club and gallery & museum visits group. December’s meeting is a craft one lead by Bridget Rogers. You’ll be learning how to make Christmas decorations using fabric folding and cartonage and take your creations home. All are welcome but to cover the cost of materials there’s a £6 charge to non-members.

Instagram: @honoroak_wi. www.facebook.com/groups/honoroakwi. Stanstead Lodge Café, Northwood Road, SE23 1DD. honoroakwi@gmail.com

Working from clinics in SE15 & SE22

Therapies:

Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage Thermal Stone Fusion

Natural Lift Facial Therapeutic Massage Reflexology, Prenatal Massage

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK SCAN THE QR CODE

What's On - December

Tuesdays 2 December: Gong

Bath on Sydenham Hill - a cosy evening Sound Journey

8pm-9pm. Step into the magical realm of my Secret Soul Sanctuary by the woods! It is a safe haven in the heart of South London, where I invite you to join me for an evening Gong Meditation / Sound Journey. Secret Soul Sanctuary, Sydenham Hill, SE23 3PH. Bookings via Eventbrite and: www.thesoulnurturer.co.uk.

Wednesdays 3 & 10

December: 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.

Wednesdays 3 & 10

December: Weekly Wine Session 7.30pm-9.30pm

The Dulwich Wine Society started in 1991 meets most Wednesdays and provides a way for novices and seasoned wine lovers to explore the world of grapes and wine regions. Taste, learn and discover new favourites. We take a break mid-way through the meeting which provides a chance to get to know others socially, and you can bring your own cheese and biscuits.

The Rosendale, 65 Rosendale Road, SE21 8EZ. https://www.dulwich-wine-society.co.uk.

Wednesday 3 December: Awaken Your Magic:

A Gemini Full Moon Astrology & Creativity Workshop 6pm-9pm

Under the Gemini Full Moon join Jenna astrologer & soul guide for a festive, heart-led evening of creativity, connection and self-discovery. Come join us at Ilsovrano London. This isn’t your typical Christmas night out; it’s a magical experience for your soul. You’ll explore your Big Three — your Sun, Moon, and Rising sign — and uncover the deeper story of who you are at a soul level.

Ilsovrano London, 12 Croxted Road, SE21 8SW. Books tickets via www.eventbrite.co.uk.

Wednesdays 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31 December: Goose Green Coffee Morning 11am-12.30pm

Do drop into Goose Green Coffee Morning 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, 62A East Dulwich Road SE22 9AT

Thursday 4, 11 & 18 December: 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! For information Contact Hayley on 07843 989728. Dulwich & Sydenham Golf Club, Grange Lane, College Road SE21 7LH. Register at: www.eventbrite.co.uk

What's On - December

Thursdays 4, 11 & 18

December: 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, call Martin on 07939 288885 or Barbara on 0208 693 2090.

Goose Green Centre, St John’s Church, 62A East Dulwich Road, East Dulwich SE22 9AT.

Thursday 4 – Wednesday 10

December: ECHOES - Solo

Exhibition by Clare Emily

10am-5pm (Mon-Sat) 11am-4pm (Sun). Green’s Gallery, 31 Dulwich Village, SE21 7BN. Drinks: 6th December 1 - 4pm. Studio Sale: 9th December 10am - 5pm. Open | Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm | Sun 11am - 4pm. www.clareemilyart.com/echoesatgreens.

Thursday 4 December: Caravaggio 8pm-9pm

450 years ago, an artist was born who would bring about one of the most radical changes in pictorial style, particularly through his pronounced use of contrasting light and shadow or chiaroscuro. He was the most famous painter of his time in Italy, as well as a source of inspiration for hundreds of other artists. Known as Caravaggio, his given name was Michelangelo Merisi. Although he had the name of an angel he was anything but, being a notorious brawler and spending his last years on the run from a murder charge. This lecture will introduce you to the drama of the life and the art of Caravaggio.

The Arts Society Dulwich membership fee is £60 single, £110 double, £12 for students for ten lectures October to July. Lectures also live on Zoom but not recorded.

Guests welcome at £10 per lecture at the door, cash or card, for the Zoom link see: info@theartssocietydulwich.org.uk.

James Allen's Girls' School (JAGS) Sixth Form Centre, Green Dale, SE22 8TQ.

Friday 5 – Sunday 7 December:

Winter Open Studios 2025

12pm-6pm (Friday 5-9pm). Cockpit Winter Open Studios is your chance to meet and shop direct from over 175 of London’s finest artist-makers. This annual shopping event is the only time Cockpit Studios – an award-winning charity – opens its doors to the public, offering an exclusive opportunity to meet makers in their studios, shop local, and enjoy festive community cheer while supporting independent businesses with your holiday gifting. From jewellery and ceramics to homewares, fashion accessories, and more, discover an extraordinary world of making and delight your loved ones with unique handmade gifts that will truly be treasured.

www.cockpitstudios.org/open-studios. Cockpit Deptford, 18-22 Creekside SE8 3DZ.

Friday 5 - Sunday 7 December: Another Christmas at Bell House: A Brush with Art

7.30pm-9.30pm (Sun 3pm-5pm & 7pm-9pm). In the rooms of Bell House, A Brush with Art will feature four short plays given before a perambulating audience and will introduce artists John Ruskin, James Whistler, Ben and Winifred Nicholson, Alfred Janes and his friend Dylan Thomas, and William Powell Frith the painter of 'Derby Day’. Remarkably, all had a connection or lived in Dulwich and each play entertainingly dramatises incidents in their lives. Saturday night is Gala Night when the audience are invited to wear black tie and cocktail dresses.

Tickets from Dulwich Players via: www.ticketsource.co.uk/dulwichplayers/e-xorlkz Bell House, 27 College Road, Dulwich, SE21 7BG.

Fridays 5, 12 & 19

December: Lewisham

Underwater Hockey Club

7:30pm – 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, Forest Hill SE23 2HZ. www.luwhc.org.uk. 18

Dulwich Hamlet FC

dulwichhamletfc.co.uk | dhst.org.uk

After an action-packed floodlit November, the year’s end sees a let-up in the schedule on the pitch, but still plenty of fun and festivities to be had off it. As always get your December diaries at the ready.

On Saturday 6th December our men travel to Billericay Town, before our women’s away day to Norwich City on Sun 7th; while out women’s reserves take the trip to face Hammersmith on the same day. The following weekend sees a doubleheader at Champion Hill - and party time - with our men hosting Lewes on Saturday 13th and our women welcoming Luton Town the following day. In between the two is our legendary Christmas party, more of which below.

Our men then host Ramsgate at Champion Hill on Saturday 20th, in the last of our home action before the new year, and a great chance for Christmas shopping at the Mega Container. The men’s Christmas fixture is a trip to face our friends at Carshalton Athletic on Saturday 27th.

Amongst all that, your Dulwich Hamlet Supporters’ Trust will be busy ushering in the festivities and spreading pink ‘n’ blue joy. We’re hosting the Hamlet fans’ Christmas Party in the upstairs bar straight after that clash with Lewes on Saturday 13th. All welcome whether you’ve been at the match or not. There’ll be a packed raffle, DJs and plenty of opportunity to bag the merch you’ll need to fill those Christmas stockings.

The Trust is also proud to have partnered with All Our Relations this December, which gives hope to families in crisis, providing legal, logistical and emotional support. We’ll have Christmas cards on sale through the month, and at the party, with Trust profits going directly to All Our Relations. And the December edition of the fantastic Dulwich Hamlet Comedy Club on Thursday 4th will be a Trust fundraiser to support the work of this vital appeal. Thanks in advance for anything you can give.

And before the festivities begin, we must take a moment to acknowledge a significant point in the history of your Supporters’ Trust. After more than two decades of dedicated and exceptional service to the Trust, Phil Mitchell (known affectionately as ‘Mitch’) is stepping down from his formal duties.

Trust Chair Tim Scott comments: “Phil’s tenure has been marked by remarkable commitment, including substantial periods as Treasurer, Chair, and finally Secretary. Beyond these vital roles, his phenomenal work running the popular 100 Club has provided significant, sustained support to the cause. His knowledge, time, and unwavering commitment to the Supporters' Trust cannot be overstated.”

On behalf of the Club, the Trust, and all its members, we extend our most heartfelt gratitude to Mitch and wish him all the very best, while hoping to see him ‘off duty’ around the club for many years to come. At the same time, we welcome Beka Torlay, stepping in to the role of Trust Secretary, and look forward to working with Beka in the coming seasons. Grab your tinsel and Up The Hamlet!

Little Gems of Autumn & Winter

Garden Talk with Janine Winlaw | Instagram @janinewinlaw

For autumn and winter colour and interest, you can’t beat the hardy cyclamen. These little gems will brighten up the darker months with a sprinkling of pink and white. They die back and lie dormant in warm weather, popping up again when temperatures drop. Despite their dainty appearance, they flower away through frost and snow and when happy will eventually self-seed and spread around, carpeting shady spots.

If you feel your garden lacks a bit of autumn colour, the earlier flowering Cyclamen hederifolium (October to November) are great for covering bare earth. The pink flowers of autumn flowering Cyclamen hederifolium often appear first, with their striking marbled, heart-shaped leaves following afterwards, forming a carpet after the flowers have finished. White varieties include C. hederifolium ‘Amaze Me’ and C. hederifolium albiflorum ‘Album’ with a mass of upright pure white flowers or for silvery leavestry C. hederifolium ‘Silver Cloud.’

These cyclamens originate from the Mediterranean, putting up with dry sunny conditions such as under shrubs or round tree roots – although they prefer some shade and like free draining, humus rich soil to avoid the tubers drying out in summer.

They make lovely ground cover and are at their best planted in large groups. They look stunning under planting silver birch trees or popping up amongst inky black Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens.’

Flowering from late December, Cyclamen coum flowers are a sign that a fresh New Year is on its way. The rounded, dark green leaves with white or silver markings appear first, so they’ll already have been growing from October. These tiny cyclamens look wonderful en mass and are perfect for naturalising around the base of deciduous trees and are gorgeous with snowdrops, crocuses and other shade lovers such as ferns.

The flowers of Cyclamen coum tend to be magenta pink but come in a range of pinks to pure white. For something more unusual try varieties such as C. coum ‘The ‘Pewter Group’ which have a silvery coating on the leaves or C. coum ‘Ashwood Snowflake’ with pure white flowers. These cyclamen like partial shade and humus-rich, well-drained soil so dig in grit or leaf mould if you have heavy soil.

Avoid manure as they like poorer soils and this will just produce leaves and no flowers. They also like dappled shade and moisture in autumn through to spring, which is when they grow below ground –long before they emerge.

Tempting as it is, avoid planting C. hederifolium and Cyclamen coum together, as the former is more vigorous and will eventually take over.

The larger, showier, non-hardy cyclamen are cultivars of Cyclamen persicum. They’re useful for Christmassy window boxes and containers and come in a range of whites, magentas, reds and deep purples but are generally one-season wonders.

What Pets Really Want For Christmas

Pets Corner with Leonie St Clair | www.londondogstraining.co.uk

Our pets do not have any concept of Christmas, so there is little need to buy special gear or toys; I would argue that those largely disposal plastic items serve human need more than our pets. Save the environment and your money and instead think about how to improve your pet’s quality of life in other ways.

A central welfare measure for animal experts is the: freedom to express normal behaviour. Understanding the species-specific needs of the animal you keep is crucial. For instance, it is not fair to keep single rabbits- they need to live in groups.

We humans tend to frame pet behaviour in a way that works best for us. One regular assumption is that all cats can be left alone for days, so long as food is available. Yet, some suffer terrible separation anxiety that is missed because they do not exhibit their distress in a way that is easy to read. Many dogs are so sensitive to our every micro-expression that we miss how our moods and routines impact on them and wonder why they ‘misbehave.’

For dog and cat owners, providing safe opportunities to express normal behaviours can make or break them. Most cats are territorial and prefer not to share toileting areas. Multi cat households need multiple litter trays. Cats like to keep their claws razor sharp; a scratching post will save your soft furnishings. Felines prefer high resting and vantage spots and toys they can deconstruct. If you do not want a feline bird-killer, find ways to play with your cat that scratch that hunting itch.

Dogs will differ in terms of innate behaviours according to breed, type, and temperament. It is hard to understand why someone might want to keep a type of dog developed over hundreds of years to guard, or to hunt and kill, and expect it not to guard its owner or not to try to chase anything that moves. Do not buy an Akita or terrier and expect it to behave like a Golden Retriever.

Play and training should be tailored to offer appropriate outlets that meet each dog’s individual needs, as well as rendering them manageable. Most dogs developed for hunting of some sort will need an outlet for prey-drive, this can vary from

simply being allowed to watch wildlife to elaborate scent and flirt pole games; the beauty of these is they can be played in or outside and require no special equipment. A flirt pole is easily made from a bamboo cane, string, and a toy. Small jam jars, with holes in the lid, make great scent boxes. Herders can be taught a game called sheep balls, where they learn to ‘herd’ a large ball instead of the real thing.

Dogs that lack confidence can be helped with activities like ACE Freework; this involves creating an indoor or outdoor obstacle course using readily available household objects and the dog’s regular food and treats- no big outlay required.

As Christmas approaches, dog and cat owners can stock up on loo roll tubes, cardboard boxes, and brown paper bags. When crumpled up with treats inside, many pets will love to rip and tear at the item to access the food. It is free and so easy to do- it is also a handy distraction when presents are being unwrapped.

In a nutshell, you do not need to spend lots of money on your pet this season- just ensure you are giving your pet outlets for normal behaviour, and every day will feel like Christmas!

Winter Market Place

Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th December

10.30am-4pm

Adult Learning Lewisham

Brockley Rise Centre

2 Brockley Rise

SE23 1PR

A fantastic opportunity to enjoy, browse, purchase and commission a bespoke piece and even join a class with Adult Learning Lewisham.

Enjoy a Lewisham Libraries’ pop-up on Saturday 13th December only, featuring storytelling and a cosy reading corner!

Train Your Nervous System

Fitness tips with Antonia Bannasch | www.bodyshotperformance.com

Not Just Your Muscles. The Christmas Edition

Idon’t know about you, but sometimes Christmas can test our systems in more ways than one. Too many late nights, extra sugar, family stress, and disrupted routines can leave us feeling both wired and worn out. While most people worry about losing muscle or gaining weight over Christmas, there is something even more important that often gets overlooked and that is your nervous system.

Think of it this way: if your muscles are the lights, your nervous system is the power source that allows them to shine. You can have the most well-conditioned muscles and the best training plan, but if the “wiring” (your nervous system) is overloaded, performance and recovery will suffer. Your nervous system, so, your brain, spinal cord, and the network of nerves that control movement and stress responses is the command centre for everything you do. It tells your muscles when and how to contract, how fast to react, and when to rest. When it’s running smoothly, you move efficiently, recover quickly, and stay calm under pressure. But when it’s not working smoothly (perhaps due to some Christmas chaos), coordination, focus, and even motivation start to fade. That’s why December is the perfect time to train your nervous system, not just your muscles.

1) Prioritise Calm

Your body does not know the difference between physical stress and emotional stress, it just knows when you are overloaded. To keep your “wiring” steady, build in recovery moments every day. This does not have to mean full-on meditation. Try taking a few slow, deep breaths between wrapping presents or sipping your coffee in silence before checking your phone. These mini resets tell your nervous system it’s safe to relax.

2) Move with Intention

Not every workout needs to be intense to be effective. During the Christmas period, swap one heavy session for something that strengthens the mind-body connection; think balance drills, gentle

strength work, or mindful movement like Pilates or mobility training. This kind of training fine-tunes your coordination and reaction time, both of which depend on a well-regulated nervous system.

3) Keep It Playful

The nervous system loves variety and novelty. So, instead of dragging yourself through another treadmill run, get playful. Try a winter walk with friends or play a quick game of “balance on one leg while brushing your teeth.” These small, fun challenges stimulate your brain, improve motor control, and keep your energy high without draining your reserves.

4) Rest Is Part of the Plan

Rest is not laziness; it is part of training. Quality sleep and downtime are when your nervous system recalibrates. So if you need a nap after a busy day or want to skip a session in favour of an early night, do it guilt-free. You’ll come back stronger, steadier, and far more resilient.

This Christmas, don’t just push through your time off; regulate through it. When your nervous system is balanced, your muscles, metabolism, and mindset all perform better.

What's On - December

Saturdays 6, 13, 20 & 27

December: 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 6 December:

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 6 December:

Seasonal Bread Baking

Saturday 6 - Sunday 7

December: So Last Century's Christmas Vintage Market at the Gallery 10am-5pm

So Last Century returns to Dulwich Picture Gallery again this Winter, with a seasonally curated collection of 20 of the best vintage traders, in DPG’s Linbury Room, Art Studio and Cloisters. Expect to find mid-century homeware, decorative objects, ceramics and glass, lighting, furniture, records, prints, antique maps and charts, French brocante, winter vintage fashion, jewellery and lots more. In the Gallery gardens there’ll be more vintage stalls, flowers and wreaths by Yolly and mouth-watering street crêpes and galettes by Sarrasin. The excellent Flotsam & Jetsam Cafe will be open too, serving food and drinks. Treat yourself to a glass of mulled wine or cup of hot chocolate. While you’re here, visit the Gallery’s new Anna Ancher exhibition and discover her luminous, ethereal, paintings. Explore the DPG collection, including works by Peckham artists Lisa Contucci and Clifton Wright, delve into the Shop, and enjoy the landscaped gardens.

Stollen 10am-3pm

Masterclass, Cozonac Holiday Bread and

Make festive holiday bread on a one-day baking workshop. Perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, this hands-on course will guide you through the art of creating two iconic festive breads, cozonac a rich, fluffy Romanian sweet bread, swirled with chocolate, walnuts, and citrus zest, and stollen, the classic German Christmas bread, studded with dried fruits and marzipan.

Cost: £36 For information and to enrol online: Brockley Rise Adult Education Centre, 2 Brockley Rise, SE23 1PR

FREE TICKETED ENTRY: solastcenturyfair.co.uk. Dulwich Picture Gallery, College Road, SE21 7AD Step-free entrances and level access throughout. Dogs aren’t allowed inside, sorry.

Saturday 6 December: London City Singers Christmas Concert

5pm-7.30pm London City Singers are an awardwinning a cappella chorus. Come to our Christmas concert for some festive fun and tunes, home baked treats and a raffle! Tickets available on our website or on the door. St Hilda's Church, Crofton Park, Courtrai Road, SE23 1PL. www.londoncitysingers.co.uk/winter25crofton.

What's On - December

Saturday 6 December:

Bell House December Open Garden - 11.30am-1pm

The extraordinary 2.5 acre site, designed and maintained entirely by volunteers, is comprised of three large gardens. Experience the quintessential English Walled Garden, filled with raised beds brimming with organically grown fruits, vegetables and cutting flowers. Then meander through the meadow, underneath the ancient, multi-stemmed oak, into the House Garden, the nectar rich pollinator border, thoughtfully designed to accommodate a wide range of pollinators. The rear of this garden is wooded, providing a sanctuary for wildlife. Finally, visitors will find themselves in the Pickwick Garden, complete with Polytunnel and nursery area.

Throughout your visit, you can take a peaceful moment to sit and relax with a tea or coffee from our refreshment stall.

To keep this event as accessible as possible, you can make a donation of an amount affordable to you. Our suggested donation is £5 per person. Your donation goes directly to garden maintenance and initiatives.

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

Saturday 6 December: Dulwich Symphony Orchestra

7.30pm-9.30pm. Alan Taylor: For the civilian victims of war. Mahler: Totenfeier. Prokofiev : Selections from 'Romeo and Juliet'. Chris Stark (conductor). Tickets £15/£12/under 16s free. All Saints West Dulwich, Lovelace Road SE21 8JY. Book tickets via: www.eventbrite.co.uk

Saturday 6 December: Festive

Christmas Gong Bath Brockley

4pm-5pm. Come for an evening of festive cheer and let the ethereal sounds of the gong wash over you. Imagine stepping into a tranquil space, laying down on a yoga mat, and allowing the soothing vibrations of the gong to wash over you. With an open heart and mind, you’ll be guided into a state of deep relaxation, as the powerful yet gentle sounds of the gong help you melt into the floor. Tickets: www.eventbrite.co.uk.

&osteo Brockley, 179 Brockley Road SE4 2RS.

Saturday 6 - Sunday 7

December: Havelock Walk

Winter Weekend 11am-5pm

This December Havelock Walk's cobbled mews in Forest Hill opens for you to meet the artists. There is also an indoor artistan market featuring invited local artists, a kids' art forage and food and drink from Canvas and Cream. Come along for some creative festive fun and support local artists. Havelock Walk, Havelock Walk, SE23 3HG.

Saturday 6 December:

Christmas Print Club – Cards, Papers, Gift Tags + More

1.30pm-5pm. Come start the festive season in our Print Room & Bindery using our historic 1880’s Albion printing press and vintage hand presses to print your very own stock of GIFT TAGS, WRAPPING PAPER, WOODEN TREE DECORATIONS, CARDS and MAYBE EVEN A STOCKING! Your festive collection will be printed by you using wonderful wooden and metal type and shapes from our huge collection, finished using thermographic powder (maybe even some glitter) and be ready to take home at the end of the session.

ALL MATERIALS INCLUDED – NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED. The workshop will be run by the Creative Directors of the Print Room & Bindery –Simon Trewin and Tania Hurt-Newton.

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

Sundays 7, 14, 21 & 28

December: 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.

Financial Matters

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

From Festive Gift To New Year Regret

Just visualize the scene, a puppy dog under the Christmas tree wagging its tail as children squeal with delight. How festive! What a true reflection of the UK as a nation of dog lovers: 34% of UK households own a dog; annual spend of over £1bn on dogs; and two-thirds of dog owners buying Christmas gifts for their dogs? Or is it?

The abandonment of dogs has risen 42% from 16,118 in 2020 to circa 23,000 in 2024. Post Christmas there has been a rising trend in the lovely puppy dog scene being discarded. In 2023, some 200 dogs were returned within three weeks of Christmas. What a contrast to that idyllic opening scene of festive bliss.

A contributory factor may be in the words of RSPCA Chief Inspector Ian Briggs: “Because of the

Christmas period, we’re in the middle of winterheating goes up, electricity costs even more. That adds an additional financial burden to people who are already struggling, and often the first thing they cut back on is their animals.”

Perhaps, the real issue or more important factor is the impulse buying without thinking long term. A dog or any pet is not like that toy in the box that can be discarded after a few hours or a few days or a few weeks. As the Dogs Trust coined in 1978, “A Dog is for Life, Not Just for Christmas”.

The experience of a new local dog owner, Cherrelle Wharton, endorsed the Dogs Trust slogan,” I got my dog, Hennessy, on Christmas Eve, knowing it would be like welcoming a new child into the family. I adapted our family life to include him, but I initially underestimated just how big of a commitment it would be.”

In speaking to local dog owners, time and cost commitment was repeatedly highlighted as the key commitments. Our local dog owners monthly dog expenditure was £50 - over £200. This was consistent with the UK Cost Guide & PDSA estimates and their yearly cost £1,000 – over £3,000.

As Christmas and the season of goodwill is upon us, potential new dog owners may want to reflect upon the following before buying or gifting that dog:

• Budget realistically

• Consider the hidden costs, such as vet bills

• Consider alternative support of dogs

• Avoid impulsive dog purchase

• Think long term

Several local dog owners volunteered the following advice for potential Christmas dog owners:

“Make sure that you have your dog insurance and health plan” Ankur Patel

“Be absolutely sure and only get a dog if you are willing to make a wholehearted and sincere commitment in every way.” Alka Bagga

“Do your research and know that as your dog gets older the increase in insurance costs is significant. When my dog was a puppy I was paying £15 a month but when she turned seven it went up to £120” Claire Ballard

Whilst the opening scene may be idyllic, do remember, “A Dog is for Life, Not Just for Christmas”.

SE22 Councillors

Councillor Charlie Smith - Goose Green Labour Councillor | charlie.smith@southwark.gov.uk

The footpaths at Dawson Heights have become split and uneven due to tree roots growing underneath. The tarmac surface up and across the hill have become a dangerous trip hazard. Now the Council has ripped up the paths and new tarmac paths have been laid creating a safe environment for walkers and users of this popular open space.

I was privileged to lay a wreath on Remembrance Sunday at St Johns Church on Goose Green. Following the sung mass at 10 am, the congregation led by the Vicar Gill O'Neill moved outside for a dignified Remembrance ceremony followed by a two-minute silence accompanied by a trumpet rendition of the last post. Lest we forget.

Saturday the 6th December is the local shops' Christmas launch day. Retailers in East Dulwich rely on the Christmas period to make a living. Local shops are having to compete with online retailers, so this day is your opportunity to do some gift shopping and support your shops in North Cross Road, Lordship Lane and beyond.

The Charter School East Dulwich has officially opened their new building for the 2025-2026 academic year, following the renovation and repurposing of the old Dulwich Community Hospital site. The buildings will now provide larger teaching spaces, a dedicated sixth form study hall, bespoke music classrooms and a large outdoor space for students to enrich their experience at the school. In addition to this, Southwark Council has contributed £6.55m towards the total development costs for inclusion of an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) resource located on a wing of the old Chateau building. The completed school will deliver 25 places for ASD resource in addition to 1700 overall school places including 480 sixth form places. I would like to wish you all a happy Christmas and a safe and peaceful new year.

Bells Bathrooms & Kitchens, Dulwich Carpet Care, Healthmatters, Herne Hill School, Mac Support, William Bailey Solicitors 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

SINGERS

Please contact Diana Chadney for further details at: diana.chadney@gmail.com. CLOSING DATE: Wednesday 31st December 2025

Ripe Old Age

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

Falls and How to Avoid the Number

One Accidental Cause of Death in Later Life

We don’t talk about it much, but one of the biggest risks facing the very elderly is not heart disease or even dementia — it’s something far more ordinary: a fall. A simple trip on a rug, a missed step, or a slip in the bathroom can have devastating consequences. For people over 80, a fall can be the beginning of a steep decline — not just physically, but in confidence and independence too.

We’re reminded of this every time we hear about a public figure who suffers one. The late Christopher Plummer, for instance, died in 2021 after a fall at home. Likewise, actor Richard Griffiths (of Harry Potter fame) and broadcaster Brian Walden both suffered falls that led to serious complications. And most recently, the late Jilly Cooper — adored for her sharp wit and racy novels — died aged 88 after suffering a fall at her Gloucestershire home. It’s a sobering reminder that even the brightest, most spirited lives can be undone by something as ordinary as their feet slipping.

Part of the problem is that our sense of balance quietly slips away as we age. The tiny sensors in our inner ears that help us stay upright become less responsive, our leg muscles weaken, and the messages between our brains, eyes, and joints start to travel a little more slowly. Add in poor lighting, uneven pavements, or the occasional misplaced slipper, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for disaster. It’s not clumsiness — it’s biology doing what biology does — but it means older people have to work harder to stay steady on their feet.

The statistics are stark. In the UK, falls are the leading cause of accidental death among those over 65. One in three people over 80 will have a serious fall each year, and the aftermath can be catastrophic — hip fractures, head injuries,

long hospital stays, and, too often, the loss of the ability to live independently.

But here’s the thing: while we can’t stop getting older, we can reduce the risk. Exercise that strengthens legs and improves balance makes a real difference — think tai chi or gentle resistance training. Good lighting, stable grippy footwear, and decluttering trip hazards are small, potentially life-saving steps. Even something as simple as getting eyesight checked regularly can prevent a nasty fall.

Perhaps the saddest part is how often older people downplay a fall — “I’m fine,” they insist, while bruises emerge. But each fall matters. It’s the body’s way of saying: take care. We need to talk about falls not as an inevitable part of aging, but as something we can prevent, manage, and take seriously. Because ageing gracefully isn’t about pretending we’re still 25 — it’s about staying on our feet, literally, for as long as we can.

What's On - December

Sundays 7, 14, 21 & 28

December: The Weekly 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, tasty pickle and preserves.

100 London Road, SE23 3PQ www.horniman.ac.uk/

Sunday

7 December:

Cacao & Breathwork Ceremony

2pm-4pm. Join Jenni of The Mindful Soul for a powerful and heart-opening Cacao and Breathwork ceremony. Guiding you through this transformative experience, Jenni will create a space for deep emotional release, selfexploration, and healing. Through ceremonial cacao and Conscious Connected Breathwork, you’ll be invited to unlock deeper layers of your mind and body - connecting, feeling, and releasing in ways you may not have thought possible. Secure your place now: https://www.dragonfly-yoga.org/timetable DragonFly Yoga Studio, 22-24 Sydenham Road, Sydenham, SE26 5QW

Monday 8 & Tuesday 9

December: Christmas Wreath Workshop with The Dulwich Petal Project 7pm-9.30pm

Celebrate the season with an evening of creativity and cheer at our Wreath Workshop, the perfect way to get into the festive spirit. Learn how to create your own beautiful and unique wreath using fragrant winter foliage, decorative accents, and ribbon. Whether you come as a group or on your own, this hands-on workshop is a joyful way to welcome the season and craft something truly special. Details & booking at: https://www.alleyns.org.uk/calendar/2025-12-08/ christmas-wreath-workshop/ Alleyns School, East Dulwich, SE22 8SU

Tuesday 9 December: Conscious Connected Breathwork: A Journey Within

7pm-8.15pm. Join Jenni, from The Mindful Soul for a powerful breathwork session designed to help you unlock deeper layers of your mind and body. Through the profound practice of conscious connected breathing, you’ll create space to connect, feel, and release in ways you may not have thought possible. Spaces are limited, so book now to reserve your spot! tickettailor.com/events/themindfulsoul/1943701. Kin Wellbeing, 79 Church Road, Crystal Palace, SE19 2TA.

Wednesday 10 December: East Dulwich WI - Christmas Table Decoration & Party

7.30pm-9.30pm. Join us for our December event where we will be making a Christmas table decoration and celebrate Christmas! We welcome Rebecca May Flowers who will showcase and guide us on making a Christmas table decoration. Guests are very welcome, however due to the significant material costs for this event there is a material charge for all guests of £15, to be paid in cash. Rebecca will supply a pot, candle, moss and foliage for each member and paying guests. We are a group of local women of all ages and backgrounds, with monthly events, plus a monthly book club and other activities. We welcome new members, the subscription for the 25/26 year is £24.50 when joining in December 2025. For further information, please email: join@eastdulwichwi.co.uk.

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

You can submit your events for free at: www.arounddulwich.co.uk

What's On - December

Friday 12 December:

Dulwich Charity Lunch

12.30pm-4pm. The wonderful Dulwich Charity Lunch is now in its 24th year, and it would be lovely if you could come along and help raise funds for this very worthy local charity. The lunch will be at The Lordship Pub again and they are closing the restaurant just for us! It is also a great excuse to have lunch and a few drinks before Christmas. So arrival is from 12.30pm and we plan to start eating at 1.15 pm. Only come if you have the time to enjoy the two courses on offer; we won't be finished by 2pm!

Tickets are £40 for a two-course lunch with wine. Remember £5 goes direct to Link Age Southwark. Raffle and auction prizes: As always, we are looking to raise a bumper amount for Link Age Southwark this year, so we need prize donations for the auction and raffle.

www.dulwichlunch.co.uk.

The Lordship Pub, 211 Lordship Lane, SE22 8HA. THIS IS A TICKET-ONLY EVENT.

Friday 12 December: Gong

Bath on Sydenham Hill - a cosy evening Sound Journey

Saturday 13 December:

Christmas Bookstall

10.30am-12.30pm. Copleston Centre Cafe, Copleston Road, Peckham SE15. All welcome to the 9th Christmas Bookstall to raise funds for SDCAS. A wonderful selection of community donated paperbacks, hardcovers and children's books are on SALE (from £2.50 to £4.00). Delicious homemade cakes and refreshments can be purchased while you browse. All books are in very good condition and make wonderful presents. The festive extras include HOMEMADE Jams, Savouries, Organic Wreaths, Cards, Sundries and tickets for the Hamper Raffle. Please bring cash to raise funds for SDCAS.

Saturday 13 & Sunday 14

December: Winter Market Place - 10.30am-4pm

Lewisham School of Arts and Design brings together a group of designers, artists and learners selling jewellery, pottery, artwork, prints, glass, upholstery, cushions, decorative textiles, seasonal cards, artisan bread and floral designs. A fantastic opportunity to enjoy, browse, purchase and commission a bespoke piece and even join a class with Adult Learning Lewisham. Enjoy Lewisham Libraries' pop-up library on Saturday 13th December only, featuring free festive crafts - plus a cozy reading corner!

Adult Learning Lewisham, Brockley Rise Adult Education Centre, 2 Brockley Rise, SE23 1PR.

Sunday 14 December: Seasonal Singaround

7pm-10.30pm. At our Seasonal Singaround, we intersperse festive songs and carols sung in unison (we provide the words!) with songs sung by individual people or small groups of people. All are welcome, to sing or to listen. £5 cash or BACS. For information: www.thegooseisout.com.

The Castle Pub, 280 Crystal Palace Road SE22 9JJ.

Monday 15 December: Carols for St Christopher’s

7pm-8.30pm. Carol Concert with the Dulwich Choral Society at St Barnabas Church, Calton Avenue SE21. Refreshments available afterwards. Free entry with a collection for St Christopher’s Hospice, Sydenham. St Barnabas Church, Calton Avenue, Dulwich Village, SE21.

Double Our Impact This December - Help End Loneliness in Southwark

This December, Link Age Southwark joins forces with the Big Give to raise £10,750 in one week and unlock matched funding to reach £21,500, helping us provide vital support to older people in Southwark.

According to Age UK, nearly half of people aged 65 and over said their pet or television is their main form of company.

This is echoed by Velma, a member of Link Age Southwark’s Wellbeing Wednesday group, who says that many people in her generation pass the time watching TV, with little conversation or meaningful connection. Velma and fellow attendee, Adassa, stress the importance of talking, how it keeps the mind sharp - and how, sometimes, you can go a whole day without speaking and not even realise.

Link Age Southwark is a small, independent, local charity, that creates welcoming and stimulating environments through groups and social events, all of which are free of charge.

Wellbeing Wednesday is one such group, primarily for people living with dementia. Activities vary: sketching, painting, collaging – and at this time of year, creating festive decorations and gifts. The group is bustling, with each participant engrossed in their work or in conversation.

At the end of the session, the group is led through a fusion of dance and exercise, combining gentle movement and memory games. Song requests vary,

from Abba’s “Dancing Queen” to 1932’s “Underneath the Arches” by Flanagan and Allen. The latter is a favourite of Mica, 91, who was born in Hungary and came to the UK as a young woman in the 1950’s after fleeing the Uprising with her then-boyfriend. They married, started a family and settled in Hull where

she ran her own dressmaking business. After her husband’s death, she came to London to be near her daughter, but like many who experience bereavement or move somewhere new, she felt lonely as she aged, craving the company of people her own age and an outlet for her creativity.

She discovered our Wellbeing Wednesday group which takes place near her home. As a naturally inquisitive person who derives great pleasure from crafts and being around others, she joined the group and attends every week. About the sessions she says, ‘I love it, it’s calming.’ Mica displays the treasures

she’s made at the group proudly in her home, showing them to her daughter, Bibi, who tells us, “Her times spent with the Link Age Southwark community group have been invaluable, keeping her spirits up and her brain ticking over. Apart from family, they are her most treasured and uplifting moments.”

Mica’s story is one of many - with over 800 people supported by Link Age Southwark in the last 12 months.

Our week-long fundraiser starts on Tuesday 2 December – you can donate from midday, with every donation towards our target of £10,750 being doubled. Visit https://bit.ly/3JYxDlT to support people like Mica, Velma and Adassa, ensuring they stay happy, healthy and connected to their communities.

What's On - December

Monday 15 & Tuesday 16

December:

MAMA.codes

Winter Holidays Coding Camps

(AGES 4-13) 9.15am-12pm. Our ever-popular Minecraft coding camp is back for the Winter Holidays with a seasonal twist... Your child will learn a series of coding superpower skills, that they can then use to unlock an Escape Room challenge. Can they even invent their own Escape Room game? Open to ages 9-13. Also running this school break: Creative coding & Robotics workshops for ages 4-11, at Carnegie Library Hub and online. Places are limited – find out more and book here: www.mama.codes/home/learn-with-us/ holidaycamps/dulwich

Carnegie Library Hub, 192 Herne Hill Road SE24 0DG.

Monday 15 December:

Dulwich WI Monthly Meeting

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

Wednesday 17 December:

We Need a Little ChristmasOne Tree Hill Choir Christmas Concert 7.30pm-9.30pm

A feast of festive songs, carols and instrumental performances from across the ages. One Tree Hill Choir's celebrated sellout Christmas Concert. With bar and seasonal snacks from 7pm. Come early to secure best seats!

St Saviour's Church, Brockley Rise, SE23 1JN.

Saturday 20 December: Festive Christmas Gong Bath in Brockley 4pm-5pm

Come along for an evening of festive cheer and let the ethereal sounds of the gong wash over you. Bring a loved one along! Imagine stepping into a tranquil space, laying down on a yoga mat, and allowing the soothing vibrations of the gong to wash over you. With an open heart and mind, you’ll be guided into a state of deep relaxation, as the powerful yet gentle sounds of the gong help you melt into the floor.

For more info & to book: bit.ly/47MO1iC

&OSTEO BROCKLEY, 179 BROCKLEY ROAD SE4 2RS

Sunday 21 - Tuesday 23

December: The Illusioneer

One hour Christmas Family Shows at Bell House 3pm or 5.30pm Christmas family shows that promise to amaze and delight audiences of all ages. Step into a world of wonder as The Illusioneer showcases mind-boggling illusions, mesmerizing tricks, and captivating performances that will leave you spellbound. Bring your loved ones along and make unforgettable memories this holiday season A perfect opportunity to gather together and experience the joy and wonder of the festive season. Book tickets via www.eventbrite.co.uk. Bell House, 27 College Road, Dulwich, SE21 7BG.

Monday

22 December:

Jingle Bells Beginner's Music Workshop 10am-1pm

Jingle all the way to our Christmas-themed music workshop! Our half-day electronic keyboard workshop is a brilliant all-round introduction to music for 4-8-year-old beginners. It's a carefully devised, fun-packed 3 hours that incorporates reading and writing notes alongside learning basic keyboard technique. Wrap this around Christmas-inspired activities and you have the perfect music-making session that kids love, all with a Christmas twist! All equipment provided. £40 for first child, £35 for subsequent siblings. Call us on 01732 457100 or visit: www.funkymonkey.info/holiday-courses St Philip/James Church Hall, Poplar Walk SE24 0BS

ROSEMEAD PREP

www.rosemeadprep.org.uk

Dulwich, SE21 8HZ

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

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.

The Last Word with Jackie Edwards MBACP

I am an integrative Counsellor based in Dulwich and offer ‘Walk and Talk’ counselling sessions in local outdoor spaces alongside more traditional face to face or on-line sessions.

How long have you lived in the area?

I have lived in Dulwich for about 20 years. I was born in South London, spent most of my younger life in East London and then moved back.

What brought you here?

I returned when I met my husband.

What has changed most during that time?

The high street. Less and less independent shops. I love ‘Through the Tree’s’ in Lordship Lane for clothes and fashion, particularly their accessories and they

The one thing you couldn’t do without?

Cake. I absolutely adore cake. Any type, but my favourite are carrot cake and coffee and walnut. The Blackbird Bakery is a go to whenever I need a cake ‘fix’.

Do you know your neighbours?

Absolutely. Couldn’t be without my neighbours. We always chat and help each other out.

The most famous person you’ve seen?

There are so many living locally that I’ve seen but never actually met, although I did once see Jenny Éclair in a yoga class. I was once mistaken for Leslie Sharp and was asked for an autograph.

Do you belong to any groups?

Yes, I belong to an on-line yoga group, and we practice together in the morning about 3 times a week. I recently met them face to face on a retreat in Greece, which was lovely.

Coffee or tea? Where?

Coffee in Redemption Roasters. I did not discover coffee until this year, I’m a late starter and now I’m hooked, but only on their ‘The Yard’ blend.

Where’s your favourite place to walk?

I walk regularly and as a ‘Walk & Talk’ therapist enjoy many of the local parks, and particularly enjoy Dulwich Park as I never tire of seeing the ducks.

What’s the best kept secret?

The hole in wall book swop outside Bell House. It’s a great place to swap and collect books for free. I visit almost weekly and have discovered many new authors this way.

What is your favourite shop?

Any charity shop for books

What was the last thing you bought there?

Shuggie Bain for £1

If money was no object..

I’d have a massive garden and a gardener to help me with flowers and a vegetable patch.

The book I’m reading at the moment..

I always have at least two on the go.

I’m currently reading “The Body Knows the Score” by Bessel Van der Kolk and “Shuggie Bain” by Douglas Stuart. I will read just about anything.

Index of Advertisers

Fidelis College

Catholic Ethos

NEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL

Choosing a school is never simple. Every parent wants their child to feel safe, supported, and inspired, and that’s exactly what we work hard to provide at Fidelis College.

We’re a South London school rooted in community, where teachers know each child by name and take time to understand what makes them tick. Yes, we aim high academically, but we also care about character, confidence, and kindness.

Parents tell us what matters most is that their children are happy here, and when children are happy, they thrive.

If you’d like to see what that feels like, we’d be delighted to welcome you.

} Exclusive focus on cutting-edge Early Childhood Education (age 2+ to 7+), the most crucial period in a child’s life

} Seamless transition from play-based to more structured learning, preparing the children to move on at 7+ to an appropriate independent or state school

} 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