Don’t limit a child to your own learning, for he was born in another time. Rabindranath Tagore
Welcome to Issue 148 of Iceni Magazine.
This month, we focus on preparing to go back to school (we all know it’ll come round before we realise it!). Vicki from Blossom Education shares advice on how to help your almost reception-aged child to be school ready (Pages 20 & 21). Then next up is guidance for reestablishing a sleep routine - hands up if you’re guilty of letting things slide a bit during the holidays. Then head to Page 26 for things you might need to buy to ensure you are ready. The countdown is on!
Elsewhere in this issue, check out Evelina and guest Izzy’s review of Broadway Bella’s SIX Teen Edition (Page 34). Charlie has a recommendation for a health and wellbeing retreat over on Pages 10 and 11. Plus, don’t forget that if you feel your mental health needs a boost, Norfolk’s wellbeing walks could be the answer (find out more from Page 30).
We hope you have a wonderful August - enjoy the rest of the summer holidays and this issue. See you in September!
Visit www.icenimagazine.co.uk
CONTRIBUTORS
Charlie, Evelina, Iceni Home And Garden, Nova Silver, Susan Leigh, Tim Barnes-Clay, Trevor Langley, Vicki Jeffery.
Do You Only Date People Who Like The Same Things As You?
After a tough day at work or managing our personal situation, the last thing most of us want, when meeting up with our date, is to have a challenging conversation or feel compelled to make a massive effort and tackle something new or unexpected.
It can be reassuring to connect with someone who’s on our wavelength, who likes the same things as us and who reinforces our feelings of security and wellbeing.
But is it as reassuring as it sounds? Yes, some people prefer to date only those people who like the same things as them, who share the
same tastes, hobbies and interests. They enjoy being able to relax, kick off their shoes and settle down with someone they’re comfortable and at ease with, especially if they’re going through a busy, stressful time and are regularly being tested and challenged in other areas of their lives.
If we have a busy life with a lot going on, being with someone who understands our situation, the specific challenges we face, for example, if we’re working in farming, are starting a new business, are a shift worker or have to cope with young children or an elderly relative, it can relieve the stress of feeling under pressure to apologise or explain ourselves and allows us to feel that we’re not alone. We can feel stronger, better able to cope when we’re with those who
are on our wavelength, who share our approach to life and have similar values.
We reinforce our safe ‘herd’ mentality when we naturally gravitate towards people who like the same as us. The unknown can make us feel insecure, uncertain and perhaps even threatened or at risk. Yet, when dating it’s true that sometimes opposites do attract and can bring a certain frisson to a relationship, an injection of fun and excitement.
But equally, at times, it can be a positive move to spend time with people with whom we have less in common. It’s stimulating and invigorating to have to focus on something new or different, to test ourselves and try something unfamiliar, whether it be theatre, literature, discussing an alternative point of view, trying a new activity, type of food or frequenting a previously unknown venue. Engaging in these interactions prompts us to review our opinions, explore other perspectives and then have to make an effort to participate.
Plus, if we see our date as intelligent, well read, sociable and energetic, but also kind, loving and supportive, trying out new adventures together can be a stimulating opportunity, a way to enhance our relationship and experience some personal growth. It’s good to remind ourselves that the longer we stay in our comfort zone the smaller it becomes, as that level of familiarity means we’re required to flex our muscles less and less. However, if our date is highly competitive, impatient or not especially understanding, their suggestions to try new things may become a tense and less pleasant way to spend our time.
Occasionally, a complete ‘change of scenery’ can be a refreshing experience and force us to think outside the box. Those situations have no familiar point of reference for us to rely upon, so we have to put any preconceived views and expectations to one side. We have to trust our past experiences, our intelligence and quite possibly our date to help us through.
It can be a little scary and unnerving at first, especially if we’re usually the cool, in control person, but often experiencing new things can be exciting and ultimately satisfying. It’s good to break away from what is usual and familiar and try something new, even if the eventual verdict is a very definite ‘never again’! Being stretched on occasion is important, as it prevents us from becoming too settled and complacent. Experimenting in a relationship as we share and extend our tastes, attitudes and interests can be a positive, lifeenhancing experience when done in a loving, respectful way.
But if our date has clearly opposite views and values and suggests things that don’t feel right or sit comfortably with us, whether it be sexually, morally or ethically, it’s important to be firm about how we feel, clarify what’s right for us and stand our ground.
For a relationship to have longevity there has to be mutual respect, understanding and support. Feeling comfortable and at ease with each other is a significant factor in our ultimate happiness.
Article By Susan Leigh
Susan Leigh, South Manchester counsellor, hypnotherapist, relationship counsellor, writer & media contributor offers help with relationship issues, stress management, assertiveness and confidence. She works with individual clients, couples and provides corporate workshops and support. For more articles, information or to make contact please visit: https://www.lifestyletherapy.net
DINING OUT: THE NELSON
Many counties have interests for visitors, plus daily ‘engagements’ for residents and locals also.
Be it some scenic beauty or historical learning that attracts, numerous towns and villages draw people, with a desire to explore and learn.
Stately homes and gardens or perhaps a castle or two may be of interest. Nottinghamshire certainly has its fair share of interests for residents, locals and visitors (from across the globe). Having culture, customs, through heritage and industrial achievements, Nottinghamshire continues to be amongst the
popular destinations for many. A good number of villages have countless visitors throughout every year.
I located The Nelson pub and restaurant in the pretty village of Burton Joyce, approx. 7 miles east of the city of Nottingham. From weekend breakfasts (full-English a speciality) to evening dining, The Nelson (own private car park and most attractive dining and drinking garden area) has been favoured for many years.
Sunday lunches are hugely popular and regularly booked well in advance. The Nelson is extremely proud to champion locally-sourced produce.
To commence I chose Classic Caesar Salad. An impressive start to the meal, having very good flavours and being well presented confidence is high, for the following courses.
For main I selected Pan-Fried Sea Bass Fillet (watercress, crushed new potatoes, olive tapenade). This arrived in style, with complementing flavours being most evident and a very well-balanced dish. Other mains included meats, fish, vegetable options, award-winning fish and (hand-cut) chips, plus accompaniments. Head Chef, James and the (dream) team take a lot of pride in creating and presenting memorable dining experiences. Absolutely, ‘Compliments to Chef’ - with no hesitation.
Sherry Trifle did not disappoint and made a perfect (towards) ending for the dining occasion.
Wines/drinks have all palates covered. Parties/ celebrations/corporate events can all be accommodated and a gift voucher could be a surprise for someone special.
Live music times prove very popular. Whiskies and cocktails are further specialities.
Thank you to Helen, for the genuine greeting and Charlotte, for exemplary service throughout. Highly recommended.
The Nelson, Chestnut Grove, Burton Joyce, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire NG14 5DN.
Tel: 0115 931 1800.
E-mail: info@thenelsonpub.co.uk
Web: www.thenelsonpub.co.uk
As always, Enjoy! Review By Trevor Langley
The Norfolk Farmhouse
Retreats For Health And Wellbeing
Raw Beauty, Yoga & Relax Retreat
September 12th - 14th 2025
June 5th - 7th 2026
Cost: £595pp all-inclusive two-night stay in one of their boutique bedrooms (ensuite bathroom), £550pp (shared bathroom).
If you can’t stay the night then there’s the option to come as a day guest on a Saturday, 9.30am - 6.30pm (all inclusive) - £150pp.
This weekend retreat is the perfect way to properly switch off and recharge. It is set in a peaceful, beautiful spot where you can fully relax while enjoying yoga, meditation and an amazing evening sound bath. You’ll stay two nights in a boutique-style room and get treated to one of their signature facials, made just for you with natural, skin-loving
ingredients that smell good enough to eat! The facial will leave your skin feeling super fresh and glowing, and their tasty, nourishing menu will help you feel good from the inside out. There’s also an on-site spa if you want to treat yourself to even more, like reiki, reflexology, or an aromatherapy massage.
All their treatments are made fresh in-house using raw, natural ingredients, completely tailored to what your skin needs. They’re so pure and good, you could actually eat them. They use ingredients like rassoul clay, cacao, turmeric, coconut and almond oils, or fresh blends of avocado, mint, honey, oats, or even a bit of yoghurt with lemon. They avoid anything mass-produced, artificial or full of chemicals. Just let them know what your skin needs and they’ll whip up the perfect natural blend to treat it.
What to expect on the retreat
Your Raw Beauty, Yoga & Relax Retreat has everything covered. You’ll get to stay in one of their cosy boutique rooms, all your meals and a custom facial made just for you. There’s also a hot tub, sauna, workshops, and yoga sessions to enjoy, plus, you’ll get a free glass of vegan wine with dinner. They have towels, robes, slippers, and lovely Norfolk Farmhouse toiletries all ready for you. All you really need to bring is your swimwear and some comfy clothes to chill in.
Yoga & Wellbeing Retreat
October 3rd - 5th 2025
February 27th - 29th 2026
Cost: £595pp all-inclusive two night stay in one of our boutique bedrooms (ensuite bathroom), £550pp (shared bathroom).
If you can’t stay the night then there’s the option to come as a day guest on a Saturday, 9.30am7.30 (all inclusive) - £150pp.
This chilled-out two night weekend break is all about pressing pause and giving yourself some proper TLC. The peaceful setting is perfect for switching off and having some real “me time.” There’s yoga in the morning and afternoon to help you relax and let go, plus calming meditation to clear your head and reset.
You’ll be sipping herbal teas, enjoying tasty, natural food that gives your body a gentle detox, and feeling seriously good. Their massages, facials, and treatments are there to leave you
feeling totally pampered. If that’s not enough, there’s always the hot tub and sauna to melt away any leftover stress. The yoga sessions are super relaxed and open to everyone, whether it’s your first time or you’ve been doing it for years.
What to expect on the retreat
Your Yoga & Wellbeing Retreat includes everything you need, all your meals, a complimentary glass of vegan wine with supper, plus full access to the hot tub, sauna, workshops and classes. You’ll be provided with towels, robes, and slippers and you’ll be able to use their lovely Norfolk Farmhouse toiletries during your stay. All you need to bring is your swimwear, comfy yoga clothes and a mat.
To book, contact Faye www.thenorfolkfarmhouse.co.uk
Hi, I am Charlie, a former make-up artist originally based in Norwich. I have always been passionate about art and channelling it through creative makeup. I trained at Norwich City College in Fashion and SFX makeup. My work has been published both nationally and internationally.
Want to see more? Check out my Instagram - @ThePoutyLip
BMW iX xDrive60 M Sport Review
At its release, the iX SUV was particularly notable as it was the first fully electric BMW designed from the ground up since the i3.
Although there are now equivalent electric versions of several other models in BMW’s lineup, the iX continues to stand out.
While it was a pioneering model upon its debut, competitors have since caught up, prompting the German automaker to give it a facelift in the hope of reclaiming its competitive edge.
The level of aggression varies among models, with the Sport, M Sport, and high-performance M70 variant showcasing subtly different designs, particularly at the front.
Ultimately, calling it beautiful might be a stretch. A pig in a wig? Possibly - but then again, beauty often lies in the eyes of the beholder.
Notable updates from the pre-facelift version include a reworked kidney grille frame, enhancements to the LED headlight elements, and an increase in bodywork finished in the vehicle’s colour, reducing reliance on black cladding.
The xDrive60 driven for this review is impressively quick and feels quite agile, thanks to a low centre of gravity and thoughtful engineering that improves stability and cornering.
The iX is surprisingly easy to manage in urban and rural settings. It may not manoeuvre like a BMW M3 or a 1 Series hatchback, but it's accessible and comfortable, aided by its air suspension.
The regenerative braking is adjustable for onepedal driving, and with practice, it becomes seamless, contributing to a hassle-free driving experience.
Image Credit: BMW
While you sit at a relatively elevated height, the iX doesn’t have the commanding driving position typical of many larger SUVs despite its considerable size. That said, forward visibility is good due to a large windscreen.
The front cabin boasts ample headroom and legroom, ensuring that taller drivers can easily get comfortable. The rear seats are also spacious, providing generous legroom and sufficient headroom. Accommodating three adults in the back is manageable without sacrificing shoulder space.
The boot offers 500 litres of space, which can expand to 1,750 litres when the rear seats are folded down in a 40:20:40 configuration.
Our xDrive60 test vehicle charges from 10% to 80% in 35 minutes, achieving a peak charging speed of 195kW. Its range is an official 426 electric miles. Fab, eh? In the real world, expect less.
Undoubtedly, the BMW iX stands out as remarkable in nearly every aspect - although its appearance is bound to spark the most discussion.
Fast Facts - BMW iX xDrive60 M Sport:
• Max speed: 124 mph
• 0-62 mph: 4.6 secs
• Range: Up to 426 miles
• Engine layout: Dual electric motors, allwheel drive
• Max. power (PS): 544
• CO2: 0 g/km
• Price: £94,105
By Tim Barnes-Clay.
Image Credit: BMW
Image Credit: BMW
Image Credit: BMW
Jobs To Do In The Garden For August
August marks the height of summer in the UK, bringing with it long, warm days, flourishing borders and the promise of a fruitful harvest.
Yet, while the temptation to simply relax and enjoy the colourful displays may be strong, this is a crucial month for garden maintenance.
With the right care and attention, you can keep your garden looking vibrant, encourage autumn blooms, and begin to prepare for the changing seasons ahead.
Here are the essential jobs to do in the garden for August.
Watering Wisely
August can be an unpredictable month in terms of rainfall, with some years seeing drought conditions and others bringing heavy showers.
Regardless of the weather, your garden will need regular watering, especially if you have containers, hanging baskets, or newly planted specimens. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimise evaporation, and focus on the base of plants rather than the leaves to prevent mildew and disease. It’s also wise to give lawns a thorough soak once a week if dry conditions prevail, rather than light, frequent watering.
Deadheading and Pruning
To keep your flower beds looking their best, continue deadheading faded blooms on annuals, perennials, and roses. This not only tidies the garden but encourages further flowering, extending the display well into autumn. Prune summer-flowering shrubs such as lavender and wisteria once they’ve finished blooming, and trim hedges before birds begin nesting again. If you have raspberry canes or other soft fruit
bushes, cut back this year’s fruiting stems to promote healthy new growth for next year.
Feeding and Mulching
Your plants will benefit from an extra boost during this period of vigorous growth and production. Feed container plants and hungry crops such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and courgettes with a high-potash fertiliser to maximise fruiting and flowering. After a good watering, mulch beds and borders with wellrotted compost or bark chippings to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Harvesting the Bounty
August is a time of abundance in the vegetable patch. Harvest courgettes, beans, tomatoes, potatoes, and salad leaves regularly to keep plants productive and prevent gluts. Pick fruit such as apples, pears, plums, and blackberries as they ripen. If you have excess produce, consider freezing, jam-making, or sharing with neighbours and friends.
Sowing for Late Summer and Autumn
While many annuals and vegetables are reaching their peak, now is also the time to sow seeds for autumn and winter crops. Try sowing spinach, chard, spring onions, and winter salads directly outdoors for a continuous supply of fresh greens. In the flower garden, sow biennials such as foxgloves, wallflowers, and sweet Williams, so they can establish strong roots before the cold sets in.
Care for Lawns
If your lawn has suffered from the heat, resist the urge to mow too frequently or too short. Raise the cutting height of your mower to reduce stress on the grass, and feed with a summer lawn fertiliser if the weather is wet enough. August is also a good time to scarify lawns and remove any moss or thatch build-up, as well as to edge paths and borders for a crisp, tidy finish.
Pest and Disease Vigilance
Warm, humid weather can encourage pests such
Feed container plants and hungry crops such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and courgettes with a high-potash fertiliser to maximise fruiting and flowering.
as aphids, slugs, and red spider mites. Inspect plants regularly, especially the undersides of leaves, and deal with infestations promptly. Use organic methods where possible, such as hand-picking, introducing beneficial insects, or spraying with soapy water. Keep an eye out for signs of disease, removing and destroying affected foliage to prevent spread.
Prepare for Autumn
As summer begins to wane, it’s wise to start preparing for the coming autumn. Order springflowering bulbs now for the best choice, and plan where you will plant them once they arrive. Clear away any faded annuals to make space for late-flowering perennials or winter bedding. Consider collecting and storing seeds from your favourite plants for sowing next year.
Take Time to Enjoy
Finally, August is a month to savour the fruits of your labour. Set aside time to relax in your garden, entertain friends, and enjoy the sights and scents of full summer. With a little ongoing care, your garden will reward you with beauty and bounty for weeks to come.
Nova Silver
So you’ve bought a new locket, and now comes the tricky bit - working out what to put in it!
Firstly let’s start by reminding you that lockets can hold much more than just photos. They can be perfect for carrying around little messages or love notes, drawings, and have even been used to carry locks of hair.
Lockets have been worn for centuries with variations in style, but remaining popular throughout the ages. Queen Elizabeth I was known to be partial to a locket and famously had a locket ring that she wore up until her death, and would often gift lockets to her favourite courtiers. Lockets have been treasured as sentimental gifts between family members and lovers, with the Victorians seeing them as the height of fashion, particularly after Prince Albert gifted a locket bracelet to Queen Victoria with eight lockets attached, each containing a lock of hair from each of their eight children. Soldiers in the First World War were known for often giving lockets bearing their photos to their sweethearts.
If you’d like to put a photograph in your locket there are a few tips we’ve picked up…
Preparation is the key! We recommend that measure the inside of your locket carefully to ensure that you know the size of photo you need. Remember that most lockets will have a ‘lip’ under which to tuck the photo.
Get your photo to the right size. You can do this on a computer, or some customers prefer to use a service that prints your locket sized photos to your specification.
Use a gentle touch with a pair of tweezers to tuck the photo into place. This is the tricky bit, so it’s worth making sure you’ve got the time to get it right.
Wear your locket! The joy of a locket is that you can carry around something treasured and precious with you at all times, or a way of keeping a piece of someone special close to you.
Focus On: Back-To-School Preparations
Supporting Your Child To Be Reception Ready
It probably only feels like five minutes since your baby was born and now they are on the cusp of starting reception at school.
It’s a big milestone for both children and parents, and a little preparation over the summer can make a big difference come September. While it’s natural to focus on letters and numbers, getting your child ready for school is about much more than the academic side of things.
Independence
Encourage your child to practise putting on their coat and zipping it up, changing in to and
out of their PE kit (when I started school many moons ago, a pupil in my class stripped off naked when it was time for PE!), and managing their shoes - Velcro is your friend! Being able to go to the toilet independently is also important, including wiping properly and washing hands afterwards. Working on developing their fine motor skills can often help with improving independence levels, too.
Social skills
If your child hasn’t attended a nursery or preschool setting or they haven’t been to many groups, try arranging a few playdates where your child can practise sharing, taking turns, and listening to others. These are challenging
skills at such a young age, but with practice, they will eventually come naturally. Social experiences help build confidence and ease the transition into a classroom setting where they are expected to cooperate with and be alongside perhaps 29 other children.
Routine
In the weeks leading up to the start of term, gradually shift towards a school-friendly routine. This will likely include regular bedtimes, getting dressed in the morning and having breakfast at a set time. This helps your child feel more settled when school begins.
Emotions
Do you remember your first day of school? Many of us do - we were either absolutely fine but remember somebody who wasn’t or we were that child who wasn’t fine at all, desperately wanted to be back home and probably cried, needing lots of encouragement to leave Mum on the playground. It’s heartbreaking to think that any child feels so distraught about starting school, but usually, these emotions do vanish as quickly as they arrived. Supporting your child to recognise their
emotions in general can help them when they become dysregulated. For example, play funny faces in the mirror together - ‘show me a happy face’ or ‘show me a sad face’. When reading books, consider the character’s emotions ‘how is Duck feeling?’ ‘Yes, he does look sad. Why do you think that is?’
Expectations
Read books about starting school (we love the Topsy and Tim books and there is a great one about this!), chat about what their day might look like, and meet up with children who already attend the setting. Familiarity can ease nerves and build excitement.
Positivity
Your attitude will help to shape theirs, so talk about school as a fun and exciting place to learn and make friends. A little reassurance and encouragement go a long way. It is natural to be feeling a little apprehensive (particularly with the first child - as it’s all new - and the last - because it’s the final time you’ll go through this emotional ordeal!), but try not to let your child feel that anxiety through your words and actions.
Academics
And if you are keen to help them get ahead academically, then you will undoubtedly have already started many of these things. Read to your child on a regular basis, encouraging them to answer questions, repeat key phrases, finish the refrains and so on. Developing a love for reading and a thirst for knowledge often come from books. Recognising their own name is essential and puts them one step ahead if they can find their peg, locate their art book or take part in the self-registration activity without support. Count lots and everywhere - point out numbers on house doors, car registration plates and letters that come through the door.
Article By Vicki Jeffery from Blossom Education
Re-Establishing A Sleep Routine
For Your School-Aged Children
After Six Weeks Of Summer
After six weeks of summer fun, late nights and long lie-ins, getting your child back into a school sleep routine can feel like a bit of an impossible feat.
However, with a little planning and consistency, you can ease the transition and help them feel rested and ready for the new academic year (well, as ready as they can be!).
Change timings
Start by gradually making bedtime earlier. Although it might be tempting to try, don’t
jump from 9:30pm to 7:30pm, for example, overnight. Change timings by 10-15 minutes every few days. The same goes for wake-up time. This gentle approach ought to help to reset their internal clock without too much resistance (I’m sure there’ll be some whinging, still!).
Bedtime routine
Introducing a bedtime routine that is calming and signals it’s time to wind down can be beneficial to all. This could include a warm bath, a story and plenty of quiet time without screens. Avoid tablets, TVs, and phones (remove phones and tablets from bedrooms, if necessary) at
least an hour before bed, as the blue light can interfere with melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep. One of our daughters enjoys a game of cards after putting down any tech for the day - and it seems to work well for her.
Fresh air
During the day, get them outside for as much fresh air as you can. Natural daylight helps regulate sleep patterns, and physical activity can make it easier for children to fall asleep at night. Even if the summer holiday weather is rubbish, there are still plenty of fun ways to play in the rain - just wear a raincoat or take an umbrella!
Daytime routine
While we often talk about the importance of a routine for bedtime, what happens during the day can sometimes be neglected. Try to keep meals and snacks at regular times too, as this supports a consistent body clock. I know it’s hard when every single hour seems to be ‘snack time’ in their minds, but keeping (or establishing) a routine linked to food can be hugely beneficial.
Discussing worries
If your child is anxious about going back to school, talk about it during the day rather than at bedtime. Reassure them, but keep bedtime calm and focused on relaxation. Our youngest
Avoid tablets, TVs, and phones (remove phones and tablets from bedrooms, if necessary) at least an hour before bed.
daughter often comes through at bedtime telling us that something is wrong. This is because her mind is free from the usual noise of the hubbub of a busy family home and she is overthinking things. We find sleep stories and meditations helpful when she is struggling to switch off.
Dos and Don’ts for Re-establishing a Sleep Routine
DO:
• Start adjusting bedtime and wake-up time gradually
• Create a predictable, calming bedtime routine
• Encourage outdoor play and physical activity
• Keep screens off at least an hour before bed
• Be consistent, even on weekends
DON’T:
• Let lie-ins continue right up to the start of term
• Use bedtime to discuss worries or school stress
• Rely on screens to wind down
• Expect instant results - give it time!
Helping Teens Engage In Lessons: A Parent’s Guide To GCSE And
A
Level Success
Supporting your teen in the run up to and during their GCSEs and A Levels can often feel like trying to get out of an escape room with no one to help.
While revision strategies often take centre stage, the real secret to exam success starts much earlier - with consistent, effective engagement in lessons throughout the school year.
As a parent, you have a vital role to play in supporting your teen to stay switched on in class and build strong foundations for revision later on.
Create a Positive Attitude Towards Learning
Teens often display the same or similar attitudes to those they see at home. Speak positively about
education and the value of learning, not just for exams, but for life. Avoid focusing solely on grades; instead, praise effort, curiosity and resilience. This helps teens see lessons as opportunities, not chores.
Tip: Share stories of how learning helped you in your career or personal life. Real-world relevance can make school feel more meaningful.
Establish a Consistent Routine
A regular sleep schedule, healthy meals and time for homework and relaxation all contribute to better focus in class. Teens need around 8–10 hours of sleep a night and a lack of rest can seriously affect concentration and memory.
Tip: Encourage a wind-down routine before bed (no screens an hour before sleep!) and help
them plan their week to balance schoolwork, hobbies and downtime.
Stay Informed and Involved
Keep in touch with your teen’s school. Attend parents’ evenings, read school newsletters and check in on homework platforms, not only to ensure that work is being completed but to see what they're covering within the curriculum. Understanding what’s being taught and when can help you support your teen more effectively.
Tip: Ask your teen what they’re learning and show genuine interest. Even a simple “What was the most interesting thing you learned today?” can spark valuable conversations.
Encourage Active Participation in Class
Students who ask questions, take notes and contribute to discussions tend to retain information better. While you can’t be in the classroom with them, you can encourage these habits at home.
Tip: Help your teen develop a list of questions to ask in class if they’re shy. Praise them for speaking up or sharing their thoughts, even if it’s just with you at first.
Support Organisational Skills
Disorganisation can lead to missed homework, forgotten deadlines, and unnecessary stress. Help your teen set up systems that work for them - whether it’s a digital calendar, a paper planner, or colour-coded folders.
Tip: Do a weekly check-in to review upcoming assignments and tests. This builds accountability without being overbearing.
Make Learning Stick with Retrieval Practice
Encourage your teen to review what they’ve learned regularly, not just before exams. Retrieval practice - recalling information without looking at notes - is one of the most effective ways to strengthen memory.
Tip: Use flashcards, quizzes or even casual chats to help them recall key concepts. Apps like Quizlet or Anki can make this more engaging. Wordwall is fantastic, too, with lots of quizzes in various formats.
Create a Distraction-Free Study Environment
A tidy, quiet space for homework and revision can make a huge difference. Phones, social media, and background noise are major distractions.
Tip: Agree on “focus time” blocks where phones are off or in another room. Encourage the use of the Pomodoro technique (25 minutes of work, 5-minute break) to keep energy levels up.
Celebrate Progress, Not Just Results
Recognising small wins - like completing a tough assignment or improving a test score - builds confidence and motivation.
Tip: Keep a visible “achievement board” or journal where your teen can track their progress. Celebrate milestones with a treat or a fun activity.
Your support can be the difference between a stressful school year and a successful one. By fostering good habits, encouraging curiosity, and staying involved, you’ll help your teen engage more deeply in lessons - and make revision far less daunting when exam season arrives.
25 Back-To-School Essentials Every Parent Should
Sort This Summer
As the summer holidays roll on, it’s the perfect time for parents to get ahead of the back-to-school rush.
Whether your child is starting their reception year at primary school or heading into their GCSE or A Level years, being well-prepared can ease the transition and set them up for a successful academic year. Here’s a comprehensive list of 25 must-haves to tick off before September rolls around - each with a handy tip to help you plan ahead.
1. School Uniform
Buy early to avoid low stock, but leave room for growth spurts - especially for younger teens. Here at Iceni HQ, Marks and Spencer is our favourite place for shirts and trousers/skirts - everything is great quality and seems to last longer than supermarket brands.
2. School Shoes
Book a fitting appointment towards the end of the holidays to ensure they still fit come September. Clarks remains our favourite school shoe brand.
3. PE Kit
Check the school’s specific requirements and
label everything - PE kit is the most commonly lost item!
4. Stationery Set
Stock up on pens, pencils, highlighters, a ruler, rubber and sharpener - many shops offer value bundles. Check the school’s suggested list to ensure you have everything you need.
5. Scientific Calculator
Essential for maths and science from Year 9 onwards - make sure it’s the model recommended by the school. Different makes work differently and you could be disadvantaging your child by choosing something else.
6. Geometry Set
A protractor, compass and set square are often needed for maths lessons and exams.
7. Backpack or School Bag
Choose one that’s sturdy, waterproof, and big enough to carry books, lunch and a laptop if needed.
8. Water Bottle
Staying hydrated helps with concentrationopt for a leak-proof, reusable bottle. We really like metal bottles that keep the water cool all day long.
9. Lunch Box or Snack Container
Even if they buy lunch, having a healthy snack on hand can help with energy levels.
10. Homework Planner or Diary
Some schools provide one, but if not, a simple weekly planner helps teens stay organised.
11. Revision Cards or Flashcards
Great for building revision habits early - buy in bulk or make your own.
12. USB Stick or Cloud Storage Access
Backing up work is vital - cloud storage like Google Drive or OneDrive is ideal for older students.
13. Laptop or Tablet
Not essential for all, but increasingly useful for homework, research, and online learning platforms.
14. Headphones
Useful for online lessons, language learning, or quiet study - opt for wired ones if school has restrictions.
15. Reading Books
Encourage reading for pleasure - check school reading lists or visit the local library together.
16. Desk or Study Space
Create a quiet, clutter-free area at home where your child can focus on homework and revision.
17. Desk Lamp
Good lighting reduces eye strain - especially important during darker evenings.
18. Wall Planner or Calendar
Helps visualise deadlines, exams, and school events - ideal for older students managing their own time.
19. Alarm Clock
Encourages independence and a consistent
morning routine - don’t rely solely on phones! This is also a good way of ensuring phones aren’t kept in bedrooms, reducing the temptation to be up messaging or playing games into the early hours.
20. Hand Sanitiser
Still a good habit to maintain even though Covid is no longer as rife - clip-on bottles are handy for bags.
21. Tissues
Useful for colds, spills, or general hygiene - keep a pack in their bag.
22. Name Labels
Label everything - uniform, shoes, stationery, water bottles - to avoid the lost property pile. Ok, so it isn’t exactly cool once they get to secondary school, but things do go missing easily, so it’s a definite must!
23. Raincoat or Waterproof Jacket
British weather is unpredictable - make sure they’re prepared for wet walks to school. The small ones that fold up are great and take up very little space in school bags.
24. Bus Pass or Travel Card
If they use public transport, apply early to avoid delays - check for student discounts.
25. Confidence Boost
Not something you can buy, but vital nonetheless - spend time talking positively about the year ahead and helping them feel ready.
Getting organised over the summer can make the return to school far less stressful for both you and your teen. By ticking off these essentials early, you’ll avoid the last-minute scramble and help your child start the new academic year feeling confident, equipped, and ready to learn.
National Garden Scheme
August, a time for lazy days and enjoying the outdoors, and what better way than spending time in a beautiful and inexpensive garden open for the National Garden Scheme.
Take the children, they pay no entrance fee, and treat yourself to a piece of cake.
¾ acre garden surrounded by open countryside & tirelessly updated over the past four years by the current owners. Bordered by shallow streams feeding a large natural pond with Japanese inspired plants. Mediterranean borders, woodland walkway, flower garden, yew hedge, kitchen garden, patio areas with seating. Vertical interest with pergolas and specimen trees.
This popular garden is at its best in late summer and is a perfect example of how colour, shape and form can be created by the use of foliage plants from large shrubs to small alpines. Movement and lightness are achieved by interspersing these plants with a wide range of ornamental grasses and variety of herbaceous plants which provide colour.
Sunday 25th and Monday 26th August
ACRE MEADOW, NEW ROAD, BRADWELL, GREAT YARMOUTH NR31 9DU
10-4 adm £5 chd free. Pre-booking essential. Home-made teas, cakes, and coffee. Disabled access. No dogs. Also visits by arrangement. Plants for sale.
A small garden with a dramatic mix of exotic
Cobweb Cottage
Photo credit: National Garden Scheme
and late season plants resulting in a rich display of contrasting combinations of foliage and flowers, a crescendo of hot colours and dark foliage. Planting includes brugmansia, dahlias, tall grasses, herbaceous perennials, aeoniums and lots of canna. Tea garden and wildlife pond.
10-5 adm £4.50 chd free. Home-made teas. Dogs welcome. Plants for sale.
Small cottage garden on edge of village with mixed borders, sunken greenhouse, pergola & productive ornamental kitchen garden with fruit cage, bees, and chickens. Wildlife pond.
Monday
26th August
33 WALDEMAR AVENUE, HELLESDON, NORWICH, NR6 6TB
10-5 adm £5 chd free. Home-made teas & coffee, cakes and sausage rolls. Plants for sale. Wheelchair access.
A surprising and large suburban garden with an exciting mix of exotic and tropical plants
combined with unusual perennials. Quirky palm-thatched Tiki hut and a tree house draped in plants. Pond brimming with wildlife and rare plants. Large collection of succulents.
About the National Garden Scheme
The National Garden Scheme gives visitors unique access to over 3,300 exceptional private gardens in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands, and raises impressive amounts of money for some of the UK’s bestloved nursing and health charities through admissions, teas and cake.
Thanks to the generosity of garden owners, volunteers and visitors we have donated more than £74 million to our beneficiary charities, and in 2024 made donations of over £3.5 million.
Founded in 1927 to support district nurses, we are now the most significant charitable funder of nursing in the UK and our beneficiaries include Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Hospice UK, Parkinson’ UK, Carers Trust and The Queen’s Nursing Institute.
The National Garden Scheme doesn’t just open beautiful gardens for charity - we are passionate about the physical and mental health benefits of gardens too. We fund Community Gardens and projects that promote gardens and gardening as therapy, and in 2017, we launched our annual Gardens and Health Week to raise awareness of the topic in May each year.
Our funding also supports the training of gardeners and offers respite to horticultural workers who have fallen on difficult times.
To buy our Garden Visitor’s Handbook or find a garden near you visit our website at www.ngs.org.uk
Waldemar Avenue
Photo credit: National Garden Scheme
Lina’s Corner
Hi. It’s Evelina. I was lucky enough to see the Broadway Bella’s performance of SIX Teen Edition in Lowestoft with my mum, my fellow Voice Junction member and friend, Izzy, and her Nanny, Hilary. Madison from Voice Junction played Catherine Parr and we were really excited to watch and support her.
So, this month’s column features a Special Guest: IZZY! We discuss the performance in detail.
Evelina: What did you think of Madison’s performance in SIX?
Izzy: I felt like I was going to cry because of how good she was! It was spectacular and I really loved it! It was amazing, it was your level amazing, and that’s pretty amazing if you ask me!
Evelina: Aww. Thank you. Do you think the song Madison sang (I Don’t Need Your Love) suits her voice?
Izzy: Yes. It really suits her voice! She sang amazingly. It was almost perfect. Out of 100 it’s a 99.9999999999 recurring but nobody is ever perfect, are they?
Evelina: Apart from Madison, Catherine Parr, who was your favourite queen?
Izzy: Jane Seymour. Her story was heartwarming, her character was amazing and she acted amazingly! Of course she wasn’t perfect but same for all of the other queens!
Evelina: Thank you so much for being in this magazine! It has been an honour having you answer some questions.
Izzy: Thank you for letting me! And for bringing me to see SIX with you! It was an amazing show! All of the queens were amazing : Catherine of Aragon (Faith Dyball), Anne Boleyn (Jasmine Gray), Jane Seymour (Maddison Humphreys), Anne of Cleves (Hannah Thomas), Katherine Howard (Livvie Spencer-Powell) and Catherine Parr (Madison Gisborne).
I can’t wait to write in the next issue. See you soon!
Love, Evelina x
ICENI ANAGRAMS
This month, the theme for our anagrams feature is ‘education’.
Don’t forget to submit your answers via email as one of our lucky readers will win a special Iceni Magazine prize! Solve all five and send us an email to: submissions@icenimagazine.co.uk. UK residents only.
The ETONIANS MAXI can be pretty challenging for those who are unprepared.
CHINA’S PREPPIEST can be a great choice at age 16 or above.
If you disrespect the ADHERE TACHE, this could lead to a detention or worse.
RON MUFI exists in most schools.
Pop along to see the ARSED CARVERIES before you sit your exams.
