Filtonvoice October 2022

Contacts

Richard Coulter

Editor and publisher

0777 555 0607 | richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

Shane Gibson

Editorial and Advertising sales 0770 674 1200 | shane@filtonvoice.co.uk

COMPLAINTS

Filton student heading to Cambridge after A-Level results

If

have a complaint about anything in the Filtonvoice, contact the Editor using the details below. We take complaints seriously and aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour.

Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website www.localvoicenetwork.co.uk, or can be obtained by contacting the publisher, above.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Filtonvoice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered although we have used some of the services. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor.

Filtonvoice is distributed each month to all Filton residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from Filton Library. Feedback is welcomed, call editor Richard Coulter on 0777 555 0607 or richard@filtonvoice.co.uk.

An Abbeywood Community School student is heading to Cambridge University this autumn to study Natural Sciences.

Mac Elmorssy, 18, achieved 3 A* and 1 A in his A Levels, having studied maths, further maths, physics and chemistry.

Mac said: "I'm very grateful

for the support given to me at Abbeywood, particularly by Mr Jeeves for physics and Mr Harding for maths, both of whom helped me to achieve my A Level results.

"I'm looking forward to the new challenges Cambridge University will bring."

l Exam results, Pages 6-9

been refused by South Glos planners.

The developers planned to create a 7th bedroom on the ground floor of 42 Wades Road by sub-dividing the existing communal area. Work has been under way separately to create an extension under 'permitted development' rights.

Planning firm Stokes Morgan, on behalf of Hiro Land Ltd, said the change from six people to seven residents would not be a significant change.

However planners took a different view, saying the changes would see 40 Wades Rd 'sandwiched' between

two large HMOs, creating an 'unreasonable' impact.

There were also objections by Filton Town Council.

Meanwhile, plans by South West Estates Management Ltd to change 718 Southmead Road to an HMO for eight people have been received by South Glos planners.

Works comprising the installation of an enlarged rear dormer, the erection of a two storey side/rear extension and a single storey rear extension are nearing completion and the dwelling is to be converted to a 6-bed small house in multiple occupation (C4) under Permitted Development Rights. Planning applications and decisions: Page 24

Opportunities for engineers of the future as specialist college becomes part of secondary

The Bristol Technical and Engineering Academy in Filton has become part of Abbeywood Community School, it has been announced.

The new Engineering Centre will now offer a specialised Engineering Pathway for both Key Stage 4 and 5 students.

Following recent academic successes, the school will also accept an increased number of students into Year 7, with 240 new students joining us this year.

A school spokesperson said: "This is really positive news for Abbeywood, The Olympus Academy Trust and the surrounding area as opportunities broaden.

"All existing staff and students have now joined Abbeywood and we are now a mainstream school in the unique position of being able to offer a bespoke engineering pathway to our students."

The school has enrolled more than 30 key stage 4 students on courses that are specifically designed to challenge and develop young people who have an aptitude for, or deep interest in, key areas of engineering such as:

• Electronics and programmable systems

• Manufacturing

• Design and design strategies

• Construction technologies

These students will study the engineering components alongside the traditional curriculum with other members of the year group and all are benefiting from the widened curricular and associated employment offers.

Headteacher Ben Dilley, pictured right, said: “It’s a really exciting time for us at Abbeywood and we are delighted to offer this unique learning experience for young people in

our community. We hope that we can develop in partnership with local businesses to help shape a sustainable future for engineering, and open up doors for people from a young age to show what is possible through engineering. We are moving away from the one-size fits all and catering for a more diverse range of needs and interests, whilst maintaining our nurturing environment and high expectations. I look forward to sharing some of these successes in the near future”

An Open Evening specific to the Key Stage 4 Engineering Pathway parents of students currently in Year 9 will be held on Thursday 17th November between 6 and 8pm at the Engineering Centre.

Booking is available through…. https://www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/abbeywoodcommunity-school-y10engineering-pathway-openevening-tickets-420341943067.

Abbeywood

School

'Fantastic results' after difficult two years

The class of 2022 at Abbeywood Community School achieved strong GCSE results, with grades 7-9 across a wide range of subjects, as well as many grade 5-9 grades in English and Maths. Around 63% of students achieved 5-9 in English, which is above the national average, while 50% of students achieved 5-9 in Maths.

Following the last two years, where teacher assessed grades have been used, these formal examination results reflect the strength in teaching and student attitudes at Abbeywood.

Headline figures this year continue an upward trajectory, following on from a successful set of 2022 A Level and BTEC results. Amongst the many success stories, Grace Hooper achieved grade 9 in English Language, Literature, Geography, Combined Science and Religious Studies – the highest results possible in these subjects.

Michael Preece attained grade 9 in Maths, Further Maths and Combined Science.

Headteacher Benjamin Dilley said: “Congratulations to our 2022 Year 11 students in achieving some fantastic results. I am extremely proud of their resilience, hard work and the manner in which they have demanded the very best

from themselves. It has been an incredibly difficult last couple of years, none more so than for the students in exam year groups, with the changes we have all had to make to learning, through the pandemic. The excellent results are the product of hard work from all our students, staff and parents who have worked together to ensure our young

Bristol Technology & Engineering Academy Y11 results

Year 11 students have been praised for remaining resilient over the last two years and it is a pleasure seeing so many of our young people continue with their education in STEM related areas next year.

Their destinations vary from NVQs in Carpentry, A Levels in sciences, mathematics and computer science to BTECs in Engineering and aircraft maintenance. One student who will be leaving as he secured a scholarship to Bristol Grammar School to study A Levels in Chemistry, Physics, Maths and Further Maths and another has planned to attend AFC Harrogate to attend Army Foundation College.

Longstanding BTEA senior leader, Philippa Rouet, said: “This is also a poignant time as this is the last Y11 cohort of BTE Academy before it merges with Abbeywood Community School this September.”

people had the best chance to succeed. We look forward to welcoming our highly talented students back to our Sixth Form in September.”

Highlights from Abbeywood Community School’s 2022 GCSE results include:

• 63% of students who achieved GCSE English at grade 5 or better

• 50% of students who achieved GCSE Maths at grade 5 or better

• 50% of students who achieved GCSE Maths and English at grade 5 or better

• 65% of students who achieved GCSE Maths and English at grade 4 or better

In addition to the excellent exam results in core subjects, there have been some spectacular individual performances:

• Grace Hooper attained 6 grade 9s, 1 grade 8, 2 grade 7s and a grade 6

• Darcy Purnell attained 4 grade 9s, 2 grade 8s, 4 grade

7s

• Michael Preece attained 4 grade 9s, 1 grade 8, 2 grade 7s, 2 grade 6s and a grade 5

• Morgan Harrison attained 3 grade 9s, 3 grade 8s and 3 grade 7s

• Isaac Chan attained 3 grade 9s, 2 grade 8s, 1 grade 6 and a grade 5

• William Crabtree attained 3 grade 9s, 1 grade 8, 4 grade 7s and 2 grade 6s

• William Boyes attained 2 grade 9s, 2 grade 8s, 3 grade 7s, 2 grade 6s and a grade 5

• Freya Broom attained 2 grade 9s, 4 grade 8s, 2 grade 7s, 1 grade 6 and 1 grade 5

Assistant Headteacher Anna Sims said: “It was a real pleasure to welcome back our year 11 students as they collected their GCSE results. It’s fantastic to see students so delighted with their results, which are a testament to their hard work and commitment over the past several months. This year’s cohort have impressed me hugely with their work ethic, positive spirit and dedication during what has been a challenging year; and their success today is richly deserved. Congratulations to all our students and best wishes for the future.”

Key Stage 4 Leader Richard Bendry has led the students through the last two tumultuous years and said: “I am proud of how hard our students have worked and their outcomes. Given the disruption to their education over the past three years, they have achieved some

remarkable things. It is great to see some amazing individual performances as well which is testament to their effort.”

Trust CEO, Dave Baker, said: “I am delighted for every student who has tasted success today and

wish them all well in the next phase of their education and training. I hope we will see many of them signing up at the start of September to continue with us in the Olympus Post 16 Partnership. I would also like to thank all

Olympus staff who have worked so hard to teach, encourage, support and challenge their students over the years alongside parents and carers who have had to be more actively involved than usual because of the pandemic."

A Level results

Top universities beckon for Abbeywood students

Students at Abbeywood Community School have been celebrating after the number of A*-C grade passes at A-Level rose by 16 per cent this year.

There was also a rise in the number of students gaining places at the leading Russell Group of universities.

For A Level and Level 3 BTEC students this year, 72% of all grades were A*-C with some outstanding individual performances.

Students will be leaving Abbeywood to study at many of the top universities in the country, including Imperial College London, Exeter and Bristol University, amongst others.

One student will be starting at Oxford University while others have been accepted onto prestigious apprenticeships, for example, at Burgess Salmon and the Ministry of Defence.

As a cohort, students

have made positive progress and of course there are some outstanding individual performances, embodying the school’s vision of “everyone succeeds”.

Notably, Dylan Parrish attained 4 A* grades in Further Maths, Maths, Chemistry and Physics; Anais Elezi attained 2 A* and an A grade in Psychology, Criminology and History; Amy

Barber A, B, B in Criminology, English and Psychology; David Boyes A*, A, A, B in Further Maths, Maths, Chemistry, Physics; Charlie Chamberlain 2A* and 2As in Further Maths, Maths, Chemistry, Physics; Libby Charles 2 A* and an A in Criminology, Psychology and Business; Sarah Crabtree 2 As and B in Art, Psychology and Chemistry; Mac Elmorssy 3A* and A in Maths, Further Maths, Chemistry and Physics; Cam Thompson 2 As and a B in Psychology, Biology and Chemistry; James Nelson 3 A grades in History, Biology and Sociology; Grace Tucker 2 As and a C in Criminology, Art and Psychology; Robyn Wright 2A* and Distinction * in Psychology, Sociology and Business; Emily Ashton 2 Distinction* and an A in Business, Health and Social Care and Photography.

The Headteacher of Abbeywood Community School,

A Level results

Benjamin Dilley said: “In what has again been another challenging year for all of our young people, with missed sessions and uncertainty with exams, I am exceptionally proud of our students. They have continued to maintain positive attitudes and shown great resilience. I would also like to thank our committed teaching staff, who have gone above and beyond in providing excellent teaching, support and inspiration for our students.

"We wish all of our students well and are confident that they are on course to succeed at degree level, in their apprenticeships or employment.”

Olympus Trust CEO, Dave Baker said: “The strong results achieved by Post 16 students across the Trust this year are of particular significance as they have come out of a period of adversity and challenge for learners who missed their GCSE exams and so much face to face teaching because of the global pandemic."

Abbeywood Community School – Engineering Centre Results

Congratulations to Abbeywood Year 13 Engineers who received their results.

A school spokesperson said: "We are immensely proud of their hard work culminating with them receiving their grades today.

"Whether they studied single engineering, a double engineering or triple engineering qualification, students have made excellent starts to their careers in STEM.

"Their results are outstanding and we give them our very best wishes for their future."

Some headline outcomes:

• 58% of Triple Engineers [Extended Diploma] achieved DDD or better (equivalent to AAA at A level)

• 81% of Triple Engineers achieved at least one D (equivalent to an A at A level) across their triple qualification.

• 75% of Double Engineers achieved at DD or better (equivalent to AA at A Level).

• Students are moving on to Degree Apprenticeships at regional engineering companies, craft apprenticeships in Aerospace and studying at Higher Education in a wide range of Engineering disciplines.

Southmead

The Greenway Centre

Monday 9.00am & 10.30am

Tuesdays 5.30pm & 7.00pm

Friday 9.30am & 11.00am

Tel: Nicola 07873 818193

Bishopston

B&A Church, Gloucester Road

Thursday 9.00am & 5.15pm

Tel: Sue 0117 9243556

Horfield & Lockleaze

The Lockleaze Sports Centre

Monday 6.00pm

Tel: Amanda 07850 444306

Filton

St Andrews Methodist Church

Tuesday 9.30am

Tel: Kerry 07738 572188

Little Stoke Community Hall

Wednesday 5.30pm & 7.00pm Thursday 9.30am & 11.00am Tel: Sharron 07947 064711

The death of Queen Elizabeth II The Queen in Filton

Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, Filton people have been recalling two notable occasions when her Majesty visited Filton.

On August 8, 1977, during her Silver Jubilee, she visited the former Filton High school as part of her tour of the West Country.

She was joined by Prince Philip and large crowds of admirers turned out to greet her, including one young boy who presented her with flowers.

On July 19, 1996, The Queen opened the £254m MoD base at Abbey Wood, pictured right.

City council spent £70 on failed bid to bring Eurovision to Filton

The cost of £70.42 is much smaller than what some other cities have spent in their bids to host Eurovision. Aberdeen City Council committed to spend a staggering £30,000 of taxpayers’ money on their bid, but also ended up not making the shortlist of host cities.

A Bristol City Council spokesperson said: “Working with key city partners like YTL Arena Bristol, we tabled a serious bid from our global city at a minimal cost to council tax payers. Ukrainians were at the heart of Bristol’s bid, and we continue to support them as a proud City of Sanctuary.”

Bristol would have hosted Eurovision at the new YTL Arena under construction at the Brabazon Hangars in Filton.

The council previously faced questions about its ability to host the contest there, as the arena is not due to open until 2024 — a year after the contest. A bespoke venue would have been created to host the song contest, if Bristol were chosen.

Speaking on the radio earlier in August, Mr Rees said: “We’re disappointed but we continue to be ambitious for the city, and ambitions come with knockbacks. But it’s experience,

The seven cities which did make the shortlist are Birmingham, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle and Sheffield, with a final decision due in the autumn.

The UK will host the contest on behalf of this year’s winners Ukraine, due to the ongoing war there.

“Daft place to put a bollard.”

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and now we’ve been through it, we’re in a better position to pursue our ambitions with Bristol in the future.”

'High octane' big band returns to Filton for October concert

Following on from their first performance at the Olympus Theatre at SGS WISE in Filton a year ago, the Kris Nock Big Band return once again for Jazz at the WISE. The 18-piece Staple Hill based jazz band will be performing one of their most ambitious productions to date with pieces from Gordon Goodwin, Chick Corea, Stevie Wonder, Steely Dan, and many more.

Described as “high octane”, “well drilled”, and “an act to look out for” by The JazzMann, the band has gone from strength-tostrength, winning Platinum awards at regional National Concert Band Festivals in 2019 and 2021 and Gold in the 2022 National Festival, and Gold at the Indoor Music Games in 2019 and 2022.

The band's director Kris Nock

said: “It’s great to be back in Filton again. The Olympus Theatre is a special place for me, as this is where I spent most of my time when studying Music at the then Filton College. I have lots of fantastic memories within the campus walls and I’m excited to be able to put on this production with the extremely talented musicians of my band."

The concert is run in conjunction with the Indoor Music Games 2023 launch event which is being held at the college earlier in the day.

The Indoor Music Games will be hosting their Bristol competition on Saturday 25th April at SGS WISE and features marching and static ensembles of all genres, from marching bands, to brass bands, to big bands.

Indoor Music Games Chairman Andy Hewlett said: “We’re delighted that the Kris Nock Big Band have agreed to return to the WISE again for this special concert.

"IMG have a strong link with the band and we’re really looking forward to enjoying the wide range of exciting music that they play. They bring a new, energetic vibe to

a much loved musical format.”

The Kris Nock Big Band’s Jazz at The WISE will be held on Sunday 9th October at the Olympus Theatre at SGS WISE. Doors open at 3pm with the concert beginning at 3:30pm. Tickets are £10 (concessions £7) and available at www. krisnockbigband.com

of Business and meetings. You will advise and support the Local School Board with any requirements for School Board member review panels for parental complaints and student exclusions.

The successful candidate will have a good understanding of Microsoft packages and experience of working as a Governance Officer in a similar post would be desirable. You will also have excellent organisation skills, be able to prioritise work, work flexibility to meet the needs of the Board and meet deadlines.

Further information about the school can be found on the school website: https://academytrust.sgscol.ac.uk/about the academy trust/vacancies

Closing Date: 14th October 2022

Expected Interview Date: To be confirmed

The successful applicant will be required to obtain and maintain a satisfactory Disclosure Enhanced Certificate, as a requirement of the job.

South Gloucestershire and Stroud Academy Trust welcomes applications from all sectors of the community and is an equal opportunities employer.

Waiting times for hospital patients on the rise

by BBC LDRS staff for Filtonvoice

Almost 5,000 residents in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG) are waiting more than a year for hospital treatment, new figures reveal, including many patients at Southmead Hopsital.

But the number of patients facing an even longer wait are now falling, the latest data shows.

A total of 4,763 people referred to hospital had not been seen within 52 weeks as of June, a leap from 4,164 the previous month, according to a report to a BNSSG Integrated Care Board (ICB) meeting. That equals 5.9 per cent of the total waiting list –one in 17 people.

The report said the number increased at both North Bristol NHS Trust (NBT), which runs Southmead Hospital, and University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Trust (UHBW),

which is in charge of the BRI, Bristol Children’s Hospital and Weston General.

It said: “The BNSSG position is driven mainly by waits at NBT (1,995) and UHBW (2,081), with the remaining 687 breaches split across 45 other providers.

“Focused work to facilitate elective recovery ambitions are being implemented.”

The report said the number of patients waiting more than 78 weeks fell from 801 in May to 744 in June, while those who were not seen within 104 weeks

– two years – dropped from 112 to 69. For planned admissions, the total waiting list size for the BNSSG population worsened from 76,803 in May to 80,712 in June,” it said.

“BNSSG performance was ranked 35th out of 102 CCGs nationally (up from 46th in May) and ranked second out of six CCGs in the South West (same as in May).”

The report to the meeting on Thursday, September 1, said only 57 per cent of emergency patients at the area’s A&E departments were admitted or discharged within the four-hour maximum target – a drop from 62 per cent in May – and that this was the same as the national average.

Less than half of urgent cancer referrals were completed within the expected fortnight limit, which was also worse than the previous month.

The report said factors

included “persistence of a very high number” of patients in acute beds with “no criteria to reside” – referred to informally as bed blockers – along with the impact of covid on the flow of patients through the system and coronavirus sickness absences affecting staff in all NHS organisations which totalled 499 by the start of July, reflecting levels in the community.

“This has reduced into August with 166 as at August 15,” it said.

“This primarily impacted rates of simple and complex discharge, the ability to staff acute escalation beds, and capacity for admission avoidance and community services.”

There were also “persistently high acute covid inpatient numbers, flatlining with 73 on August 15”.

Ambulance handover delays also worsened in June, it added.

Filton Town Council

On behalf of the residents of Filton, councillors and staff at Filton Town Council offer their deepest condolences to the Royal Family following the death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.

Her Majesty the Queen has been a source of inspiration and a role model for life in public service for more than 70 years. We sincerely wish that expressions of deep esteem and the gratitude of our nation, for a life so unselfishly given, may act as great comfort and consolation to the Royal Family at this time.

Books of condolence were opened at South Gloucestershire Council Badminton Road Offices, Yate and the Civic Centre, Kingswood, at 9am on Saturday, 10th September, and at Filton Leisure Centre from Monday 12th September for anyone who wished to pay their own personal tribute to Her Majesty. The books remained open every day from 9am to 5pm, until Tuesday, 20th September.

Online book of condolences are available at www.royal.uk/ Local people were invited to lay flowers by the Jubilee flagpole at Elm Park.

The flag flew at full mast on Saturday, 10th September 2022, and was lowered to half mast on Sunday, 11th September, 2022, in line with national guidance.

Filton Town Council

Council offices

The council offices have moved temporarily to the snooker hall while refurbishment takes place at the Elm Park site.

The council is unable to have visitors to the office at the moment but appointments can be made or enquiries made at the Leisure Centre reception – which is now situated at the rear of the building.

Please contact us at office@ filtontowncouncil.gov.uk or by phone 01454866698/01454 803918 to arrange an appointment if necessary. If you have an enquiry or wish to report a problem email office@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk.

Filton Town Council meetings

Council meetings are again 'in-person' meetings at the town council halls at Elm Park.

Details at www.filtontowncouncil.gov.uk

Dates

October

11th Full Council Finance and General meeting

25th Full Council meeting

November

8th Full Council Finance and General meeting

25th Full Council meeting

All meetings 7pm

Update from Filton Chest and Heart charity

Filton Chest & Heart Committee will celebrate 77 years this November, a huge achievement for a local charity that specifically supports Filton residents with a lung or heart condition.

We have managed through Covid and this year have managed to book a trip with the Willow Trust taking a boat trip from Saul Junction up the canal towards Sharpness and back. A really lovely day enjoyed by all our members.

Other events included an Easter Fair, a Jubilee Lunch, both supported by Asda, and watching a group of Irish Dancers who amazed us all as they range from age 4 to age 70!!

We are very lucky to have our President Professor Nick Maskell, top right, and Vice President Dr John Harvey, right, support our charity from Southmead Hospital, as they both have been caring for patients with Covid 19 as well as doing their normal day jobs. Perhaps you have been one of them?

The origins of the Society begin in 1945 when TB was the killer disease; by the 1970s the organization was renamed Chest, Heart and Stroke Association when the focus was more on heart diseases and in the 1990s again saw a change of direction to Filton Chest & Heart Committee, incorporating lung patients as well as heart.

Now in 2021 the society is supporting Filton residents who are registered with us, from the latest serious lung condition. So from TB to Covid our society tries to change, with the times.

Over the years the Committee has enjoyed entertaining wonderful Filton residents who have helped us raise funds to pay for medical equipment for the local doctor’s surgery & clinics and now

the Respiratory and Cardiology Wards at Southmead Hospital. All in case YOU need help at some time.

If you know of, or are someone who is resident in Filton, has a lung or heart condition and would enjoy mixing with a lively group then please get in touch with us.

We meet regularly, monthly, at St Andrew’s Methodist Church in Gloucester Road North and each member gets an invitation and details of our next event, so join now and contact Clare Hayward on 07864 721230 or Brian Smith on 01179759126 or email us at b.smith. filtonchestandheart@gmail.com.

We will be pleased to welcome you to join us.

Clare Hayward

Filton Airfield hangar to become community hub

A multimillion-pound bid to Government to restore and convert a First World War aircraft hangar of Filton Airfield into a brand-new community and business hub has been formally submitted by South Gloucestershire Council.

The restoration of Hanger 16U at Brabazon will form part of the transformation of the historic former airfield into a thriving new neighbourhood.

The plans will see the historic building reborn as a new local, social hub for businesses and community groups, set around a new café.

As part of the bid, which is seeking £5.1 million from the second round of the Government’s Levelling Up Fund, the council would work with landowners YTL Developments to ensure that the heritage of the building is preserved and that Hangar 16U becomes a true community asset, accessible on foot, by bicycle and via public transport.

The Government’s Levelling Up Fund was created to invest in infrastructure that improves everyday life across the UK, including to support projects that invest in, maintain and expand cultural and heritage assets.

Leader of South Gloucestershire Council, Cllr Toby Savage, said: “Preserving the outstanding heritage of Filton Airfield is a vital aspect of our vision for its regeneration and by

restoring and reintroducing the hangar to community use, this will give it a new purpose and ensure it remains a historic local feature for generations to come.

“As local councillors Jo, Sanjay and Brian have made clear to me the importance of providing new facilities and services not just to the new residents of Brabazon, but also the existing Charlton Hayes community as well – and this

Take

bid seeks to unlock the necessary funding to do just that.”

Cllrs Jo Buddharaju, Brian Hopkinson and Sanjay Shambhu, who represent the Charlton and Cribbs ward, said: “We are delighted that the council has submitted this bid, which will help ensure our new and growing communities have the social and economic infrastructure they need to thrive. We look forward to seeing the outcome of the bid and hope that Charlton Hayes and Brabazon get this support to thrive as they grow.”

Director at YTL Developments, Seb Loyn, said: “This bid by South Gloucestershire Council will accelerate the vision to create a thriving new neighbourhood. The transformation of Hangar 16U into a new local, social hub is being designed to foster a sense of community, ensuring that Brabazon is a place not only to live, but to enjoy the best that life has to offer.”

a fresh look at caring with Home Instead

Cllr Savage, local councillors Brian Hopkinson, Sanjay Shambhu and Jo Buddharaju, YTL Director of Planning & Development Seb Loyn and members of the YTL Developments team.

Family favourite Shrek makes his way to Filton

Make room for ogre-sized family fun in Filton this October half term, as the greatest fairy-tale never told comes to life on stage in Bristol!

From 26th-29th October 2022, Thornbury Musical Theatre Group (TMTG) present 'Shrek the Musical' at the Olympus Theatre, Filton - their first full-sized musical production since pre-pandemic.

Join the unconventional hero Shrek and his 'noble steed' Donkey on a big, bright, musical adventure to rescue a princess and get his swamp back. Based on the hit film of the same name, ‘Shrek the Musical’ is a fun and family-friendly musical comedy with a cast of vibrant fairytale characters and a ‘shrektacular’ score.

A club spokesperson said: "This is a w wonderful production for the young, and the young at heart. ‘Shrek the

Musical’ guarantees fun for all ages and will be the perfect October half term treat!"

As their usual performance venue of the Armstrong Hall in Thornbury is no longer available, TMTG will be venturing to a new venue, the Olympus Theatre in Filton (at the SGS WISE campus) for this production.

The show will take place from Wednesday 26th OctoberSaturday 29th October at 7:30pm nightly, and in addition, there will be afternoon performances at 2:30pm on the Friday and Saturday.

Tickets are available now from £10.50.

A 10% discount is available for groups of 10+.

Visit www.tmtg.org.uk/ tickets, call 07516 270140 or visit the box office in person at Lisa Costa Estate Agents, 53 High Street, Thornbury, BS35 2AR to buy yours.

Remembering a life dedicated to serving our nation

e were all I’m sure, stunned and devastated by the loss of our beloved Queen on the 8th of September. Here in South Gloucestershire events were held to mark the passing of a remarkable person. A life dedicated to service of the people of our great nation and the Commonwealth.

Rest in peace your majesty and thank you…

On the 11th of September I was present for the Proclamation of His Majesty King Charles III at the Kingswood Civic Centre, read by Cllr Sanjay Shambhu, Chair of South Gloucestershire Council. I also attended for King Charles III’s paying tribute to his mother Queen Elizabeth II in his first parliamentary address in Westminster Hall where he spoke to both houses, Westminster Hall is the oldest building on the parliamentary estate. The hall has played a central role in British history, seeing the development of parliament, law courts and various government offices over its fascinating 900-year history under its magnificent roof. It is in this hall that Queen Elizabeth II lay in state.

I also made the following remarks during Tributes to HM Queen Elizabeth II on Saturday the 10th September: Thank you, Mr Speaker. Sadly, I never met the Queen. It was something I’d always hoped to do. However, like most people in our country and the Commonwealth she was always a positive presence in my life.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was not only our Head of State and the mother of our nation, she indeed had the same responsibilities and duties for the peoples of our dependent sovereign territories, as in far-away places like the Falkland Islands and the governments and peoples of the Commonwealth nations around the world.

This was brought home to me in an amazing way when I was Chairman of the All Party Group for Gibraltar. During Gibraltar National Day, which is today, the 10th September, Gibraltar celebrates its unique identity and its Britishness, there is normally a huge rally in

Casemates Square which is right in the middle of Gibraltar.

It is a fantastic occasion, when the whole place is festooned with Union flags and the red and white of the Gibraltar flag. Today, the celebrations have been postponed until next year and the Proclamation of King Charles III was shown on the screens in Casemates Square. Fabian Picardo, the Chief Minister, spoke yesterday of a cloud of sorrow over the Rock and the Gibraltar Regiment had a 96-gun salute.

During happier times, National Day in the Diamond Jubilee year of 2012, there was a huge picture of the Queen at the rally. Every speaker on the platform gave thanks and appreciation for Her Majesty’s service and spoke of their pride in their Britishness and their Queen.

On the platform that day, Fabian, used a phrase which I hadn’t heard before which I think encapsulates the way the Queen was a great unifier, of many different peoples.

He said “the people of Gibraltar, other sovereign territories and the commonwealth are all part of the great British family”. And even more, in a place like Gibraltar, which is a small piece of rock that is a real melting pot of different religions and cultures, within physical sight of the North African coast, everyone was united on that day with an outpouring of love, pride and appreciation for our monarch.

Yesterday evening, I rushed back to my constituency to

attend a Church service at St Peter’s Church in Filton. The congregation was told by the Reverend Lizzie Gregory that it wasn’t a service of commemoration – that would come – but this was a time for the community to come together, support one other, grieve together and give thanks. It

was a wonderful service and it was great to see so many people there.

You could sense and feel the pride and the real depth of emotion.

In conclusion, Mr Speaker, I don’t normally quote French Heads of State - unless they were born in Corsica - but I thought President Macron’s comments on the passing of the Queen sum up how we and the rest of the world saw her. He said “To you, she was your Queen. To us, she was The Queen. She will be with all of us forever.”

As always, should you need my help with anything, my office is open from Monday to Friday between 9am and 6pm. Please telephone me on 01454 617783 or email me at: jack.lopresti. mp@parliament.uk if I can be of assistance or to book a surgery.

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

Every week: (No need to book)

Coffee Mornings

Every Monday 10:30-11:30am

Why not come along for a free cuppa and make some new friends. Everybody welcome!

Rhyme Time

Wednesdays 10:30 11:00am Rhymes & stories for pre school children with musical instruments!

Storytime at Filton Library

Every Thursday 11:00 11:30am

Come and join us for our first Storytime session. Sit back, relax, and listen to a story. These sessions are intended for pre school children.

This month: Lego Club

Saturday 22nd 10:30-11:30am

Join us for theme based creative building fun for primary school aged children. All children must be accompanied by a grown up.

Advanced booking essential

To book your place and for more details email your name and contact phone number: filton.library@southglos.gov.uk

Come and join us for a free drop in craft session!

Thursday 27th 2-4pm

Join us for free seasonal crafting fun. The session is intended for primary school aged children

Open (Staffed) Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 10:00 17:30 Saturday: 09:30 13:00 Tuesday, Friday, Sunday: CLOSED

Filton planning applications in September

Visit: beta.southglos.gov.uk/search-planning-applications

Applications

Land At 2 Church Road

Permission in principle for the erection of a maximum of 9 flats.

718 Southmead Road

Change of use from 1 dwellinghouse (Class C3) to a large 8 bedroom House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) for up to 8 people (Sui generis) as defined in the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended).

646 Filton Avenue

Erection of hip to gable roof extension and installation of 1 rear dormer.

Squadron Air Training Corps, Pine Grove

Demolition of existing buildings. Erection of 1 building to form Cadet Training Centre with associated works.

825 Filton Avenue

Change of use from C3 to a 4 bed HMO (Use Class C4).

27 Gloucester Road North

Display of 1 internally illuminated ATM customer information sign.

Installation of 1 replacement external ATM and associated works.

18 Broncksea Road

Erection of a two storey rear extension. Open for comment icon

Decisions

4 Lomond Road

Erection of single storey wrap around extension to create additional living accommodation and improved garage.

Approve with Conditions

4 Park Road

Erection of a single storey rear extension to form additional living accommodation.

Approve with Conditions

23 Gayner Road

Erection of single storey front extension and sub-division of existing dwelling to form 2 flats.

Approve with Conditions

42 Wades Road (above)

Change of use from a small house in multiple occupation for 3-6 people (C4) to a large house in multiple occupation for up to 7 people (sui generis) as defined in the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended) re-submission of P22/00522/F. Refusal

726 Southmead Road Installation of 1 side and 1 rear

dormer to facilitate loft conversion.

Refusal

18 Fourth Avenue

Application for the continued use (Class C4) as small 4 person HMO.

Approve Certificate of Lawfulness

Land To The Rear Of 39 Cleve Road

Erection of detached dwelling with associated works.

Refusal

We are now enabling close contact visits in the home, every resident is able to have an essential care giver, and there is no isolation required for new residents from the community. We still have a varied activity schedule which keeps life interesting and happy.

staff wear PPE at all times and we have ensured a high volume of supply

• Skilled nurses are on site 24/7 and respiratory equipment is at hand

• Safe face-to-face visits where possible

The Queen kept her promise to serve

THE passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has given all of us something of a shock.

For, as much as her death was not unexpected at the age of 96, having reigned over the United Kingdom for 70 years, she was the only monarch that most of us have ever known; a constant and reassuring presence for so many during a period of remarkable change throughout the world.

We mourn her passing and offer our condolences to her family as, in addition to being our Queen, she was a mother, grand mother and great-grandmother, with a family who loved her.

She meant different things to each of us and, while she was instantly recognisable across the world, many people locally will have their own personal memo ries of her.

There have been some won derful recollections and stories

told in the aftermath of her passing. For someone who lived such a public life, some of these stories are still new to us, and we have found out more about our Queen in the past days.

Many people in South Gloucestershire may remem ber her visits to the area over the course of her time as our sovereign.

Her love of horses was well known, and she very much enjoyed her attendances at the Badminton Horse Trials over the years. She first visited in 1952 and then in 1953, her first year as Queen.

She opened the Severn Bridge in 1966 and she visited the fac tories in Filton where Concorde was built.

As chair of the council, I have attended a number of ceremonial events to mark the Queen’s life, and spoken with local people

with their own personal stories.

I was, for example, fascinated to learn that in 1981, the Queen took refuge in the Cross Hands Hotel in Old Sodbury to shelter from a blizzard. The weather led many people to seek a room for the night but, fortunately, room was found at the inn and Her Majesty was able to take shelter before leaving when the snow eased later that night.

Perhaps you have your own memories of her reign?

As with the passing of anyone, it is comforting to think about the time spent with them and how their lives affected us; it can help their memory live on.

The council is sharing images from Her Majesty’s visits to the area over the years, which you can see on our website at www. southglos.gov.uk/photos.

On her 21st birthday, as Princess Elizabeth, she pledged

that her whole life would be devoted to our service. Today we all know that the Queen kept to her promise.

We look forward to the reign of His Majesty King Charles III and trust that he will offer the same constancy and strength as did his mother.

With Sanjay Shambhu Chair of South Gloucestershire Council

OUR great nation was shaken to its very core following the death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.

I recognise that, of course, there are varying views on the monarchy but no one can deny the Queen’s positive contribution through her support to a vast number of charities, shining a light on the hard work of numerous organisations who make a difference to people’s lives.

Her Majesty the Queen has lived by her oath to spend every day of her life in service to her people. As an inspirational leader, she has been a great example to us all and nobody could have done more to serve this country and the Commonwealth.

I know many of our communities felt a huge personal

loss when the sad news of her death was announced on September 8.

For most, she is all we have ever known and, after speaking to colleagues, officers and residents, I think most people were surprised at the intensity of their grief.

The week between the announcement of the Queen’s passing and her funeral was a very sombre and solemn time and, over those ten days, I was determined to visit as many police stations as possible. So many of our police officers’ working life is born out of duty to the Crown and I know that they felt this loss acutely.

I have sworn allegiance to the Queen twice: firstly when I was Scout at the age of 11 and then,

as a young soldier of 19, I swore allegiance to the Queen and her family, to protect this country. Similarly, our police officers also swear an oath to the Queen and her death has had a huge impact on them.

I want to take a moment to thank and recognise the police officers, police staff and PCSOs across Avon and Somerset and the country for their work to help facilitate the numerous memorial events, proclamation ceremonies and the funeral of the Queen itself; their work and support has kept the public safe while they paid their respects.

I deeply share the sorrow that our united nation continues to feel at the passing of our Commander in Chief.

In many of our lifetimes, we

will never see a monarch reign for the length Queen Elizabeth II did, and to do so with grace, generosity and selflessness is astonishing.

Things will never be the same again but, having known King Charles III for over 30 years, I know he too will be a respected and dedicated monarch.

ould you like to join an afternoon choir, but don’t think you can sing, or are too shy to try? Well, here’s your chance to give it a go. The Filtones choir is looking for new members, and this could be the opportunity you have been waiting for!

Come and join us free for four weeks – no obligation – all voice ranges are welcome as we sing four- part harmony. You will not be subjected to an audition and, although it can be useful to read music, this is not an obstacle as we provide other audio aids for learning. What’s there to lose? There is certainly much to be gained – an afternoon in the company of like-minded sociable ladies and gentlemen who will soon become new friends – and singing is good for your health too!

We meet at St Teresa’s Community Rooms at the rear of the Church, 71 Gloucester Road North BS34 7PL from 1.45 to 3.45 p.m. every Wednesday. Just come along, or for more information please ring Dot on 0117 9690654 or 07870 984760 or Janet on 0117 9241534, or check out our website on www.thefiltones.weebly.com. We look forward to seeing you.

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

What's on in Filton ... email shane@filtonvoice.co.uk

St Peter’s Church:

Services

Sunday 2 October

The feast of Michael and All Angels. 10am Eucharist and 5pm Youth of God at the Rectory Sunday 9 October 10am Eucharist Sunday 16 October 10am Family Eucharist Sunday 23 October 10am Eucharist Sunday 30 October

All Saints Sunday 10am Eucharist and 6pm Choral Evensong with Benediction

Midweek

Said Eucharists are on Wednesdays at 12noon.

Social and Church Groups

Our Ladies' Group meet at 2pm every other Monday in the church hall. This month we are meeting on 10 & 24 October. Full programme and contact details available on our website.

Our Mothers' Union meet on Thursdays at 2pm in the Coffee Shop. Again, full details on the website.

Brabazon Belles (a social group for women) meet on the first Monday of the month at 7pm in the church hall.

Our Open House group meets every Tuesday in the church hall from 9.30 - 11am for tea, toast, and companionship.

Our friendly choir meets for rehearsals every Friday at 7pm in the church.

Our Zumba group meet on Mondays at 10am and 11.15, and Fridays at 9.30am. Contact Jools for more information jooljdh@ gmail.com or julie737@zumba.com

Community Coffee Shop

Our friendly, welcoming coffee shop is open from Monday to Thursday, 10am - 1pm for hot and cold drinks, cake and toasted teacakes. Suggested donation £1.50 per item.

You can find more information about all of this, and read our weekly news sheet, by going to www.stpeterschurchfilton.com and if you have any queries, please contact the Rector, or the administrator, who will be only too happy to help. rector@ stpeterschurchfilton.com and faith. stpeterschurchfilton@gmail.com

St Andrew's Methodist Church

Autumn Fayre

Saturday 5th November 10.00am – 1.00pm

Sundays

Morning Service 10.30 am. Little Lights (for children whose parents are attending worship).

Tuesdays

Wesley Guild, alternate Tuesdays, 2.15 pm, recommencing 6 September.

Thursdays (Term-time) Rainbows 5.30 pm –6.30 pm.

Friday (Term-time) St Andrews Baby and Toddler Group, 10.00 am –11.45 am, £2 per family, includes refreshments. Play, crafts, chat and singing time. Recommencing 9 September.

Saturday

Messy Church, 2nd Saturday of the month, 3.30 pm – 5.30 pm. Crafts, games, short service, and a delicious tea. And it's all FREE! Outside groups also regularly hire our newly refurbished multi-use church. For bookings, Tel 07773636042. For all other enquiries, please Tel 0117 9872143.

FACE

Mondays: 12.30-1.30pm Tai Chi 7-9pm The Hangout youth club for young people aged 13-25, with social or learning disabilities, £2 entry.

Tuesdays: 10am-12pm Coffee Club (tea & coffee morning for older folk), donations welcomed

5.30-6.30pm Rise youth club for School Years 3 & 4, £2 entry

7-8.30pm Shine youth club for School Years 5 & 6, £2 entry

Wednesdays: 7-9pm Outbreak youth club for School Years 7-13, £2 entry

Thursdays: 1.30-2.30pm Low Impact Fitness session, £4 entry

7-9pm Illuminators social club for adults aged 20+ with social or learning disabilities, £2 entry Fridays: 10.30am-12.30pm Silver Surfers starting on 16th September. 10am-12pm “Coffee & Chat” coffee

morning for anyone who would like to come for refreshments, conversations and join in crafts and games together. Donations welcomed.

Saturdays: 1-3.00 pm. The HUBEnvironment and Wellbeing. For 18+ with social and learning disabilities as well as any adult who is keen on gardening and nature. £2. Contact FACE for any queries, the programme of activities and booking in.

Golden Oldies Taster Sessions

Wednesday 12th October 11 – 12pm Wednesday 9th November 11 – 12pm

FACE will be hosting 2 taster sessions for the Golden Oldies charity in October and November. Please come along to join together with others in the community for a great sing-along to improve wellbeing.

Silver Surfers Update

FACE are looking for 2 volunteers to help recommence the Silver Surfers group on Thursday mornings 10-12 at their base in Elm Park. We are looking for people free on Thursday mornings who have basic knowledge of computers and mobile phones who would be happy helping share skills with older folk, over a cuppa and biscuit of course! If you are interested, please contact info@facecharity.org. uk or 0117 9691938

FACE, Youth Centre, Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS. 0117 9691938 / info@facecharity. org.uk

Girl Guiding

Rainbows – age 4 - 7 yearsTuesday 16:45-17:45 & Thursday 17:30 – 18:30

Brownies - age 7 - 10 yearsTuesday 17:45-19:15

Guides - age 10 - 14 years - Tuesday 17:30 – 19:30

Rangers - age 14 - 18 yearsTuesday 17:30 – 19:30

To register your daughter, go to Girlguiding UK website and follow the link 'Register my daughter'

1st Filton Scouts

Beavers age 6-8, Wednesday 5:45 – 6:45pm Cubs age 8-10, Monday and Thursday 6:30 – 8pm

To advertise, contact shane@filtonvoice.co.uk and on 0770 674 1200 or Richard on 0777 555 0607

Scouts age 10 ½ -14, Tues 6:45 – 8:45pm

The group is based in Scout HQ, Nutfield Grove, Filton, BS34 7LH. All sections are open to boys and girls.

Email:joining@1stfiltonscouts.co.uk Website:1stfiltonscouts.co.uk

Men In Sheds Filton

The DIY group, which aims to tackle loneliness and isolation among men aged over 50, operates from the Scout hut in Nutfield Grove, providing a space to socialise, build, share skills and drink tea. Men in Sheds Filton is part of a national movement, initiated by Age Concern Cheshire in 2009 and sustained by the UK Men’s Sheds Association. The group runs every Wednesday, from 9.30am-12.30pm. Call John Cahill 07986053005

SHE7

Tuesday: Bingo 7.30pm - 9.00pm

Wednesday: Over 50s lunch, Cooked lunch, pudding and tea/coffee for just £3.50. Please ring 0117 969 5130 to book and arrive by 12.15pm.

Wednesday: Bristol Taiko - Japanese Drumming 7.00pm - 8:30pm, £5 per session

International Plastic Modellers Society Avon

Meetings are held on the 3rd Wednesday in the month from 7:30pm for 8.00pm at: BAWA Healthcare & Leisure, 589 Southmead Rd, Filton, Bristol BS34 7RG.

Ukulele Filton

We are an enthusiastic group of ukulele players, who meet to strum along and sing on Monday evenings, at 7.30 pm, at Filton Community Centre. No previous experience needed. We have spare ukes for you to try, and plenty of help in getting you started. For further details, phone Sue on: 0750 4561 831.

Upper Horfield Community Trust

Pilates: Every Monday there are two evening Pilates sessions in the Community Room. For session times and availability, please

What's on in Filton ... email

contact Helen at prime-pilates@ hotmail.com or on 07966 217313.

Hapkido: Sessions in this Korean martial art take place every Tuesday evening in the Main Hall. For more information, please contact luke.gumbrill@live.co.uk.

Art Classes: Two Watercolour Art Classes with renowned artist Anthony Pace take place in the Community Room every other Tuesday. The first is at 10am and the second is at 1pm. Places are limited, so for availability please contact the Trust Administrator at info@uhct.co.uk or on 0117 9690011.

Yoga: There are Pregnancy Yoga and Postnatal Yoga sessions in the Community Room every Wednesday evening. For session times and availability, please contact Kate at hello@ bloomyogabristol.co.uk.

Tai Chi: Tai Chi sessions are held in the Community Room at 2pm on alternate Saturdays. For further details, please contact info@uhct. co.uk or 0117 9690011.

Creative Writing: Free sessions take place every Wednesday at 11am in the Milburn Room.

Craft and Chat: Free sessions take place every Friday at 1pm in the Milburn Room.

Bristol Scrabble Club

Bristol Scrabble Club meets every Wednesday evening from 7pm until 10pm at the Filton Community Centre. Elm Park Filton BS347PS. New members are welcome and first visit is free so come along and give us a try. For more information ring Sheila Hinett 01179570792 or 07435316458. Alternatively email shinett@ blueyonder.co.uk.

Bristol Sugarcraft Guild

We are a small friendly group who meet every third Saturday of the month 2pm to 4pm at St Andrews Church, Elm Park, Filton. If you would like to learn to make sugar flowers and models we hold demonstrations and also workshops with instruction. Beginners are very welcome. Please call Jean Kington on 01454 314178 or Carole Hyams on 0117 956 8037 for more information.

Horfield Townswomen’s Guild

We will be meeting at St Andrew's Church Hall on the 2nd Wednesday afternoon of each month (except August) at 2pm to 4pm from January 2022. We welcome new members. For more information, please contact Edna on 9495413.

Community Garden

At the 'Gardening get-togethers' held twice a month volunteers help keep the garden looking beautiful. Just turn up at 2pm on the day with your gloves on and give us a helping hand. We have a selection of tools and guidance is provided. See poster right for dates Check facebook.com/ filtoncommunitygarden for updates

Filtones Choir

Come and exercise your lungs and meet new friends every Wednesday afternoon from 1.45-3.45 at St Teresa’s Community Rooms (behind the Church) 71 Gloucester Road North, BS34 7PL. We sing four-part harmony, so all voice ranges are welcome and there are no auditions. Contact Dot on 0117 9690654 or 07870 984760 or Janet on 0117 9241534 or email dorothy.bryant@btinternet.com We’ll be delighted to talk to you.

Ebenezer Church

Sundays Services at 10.30am at Orchard School, Filton Road. Contemporary worship music, bible-based talks, real life stories, refreshments, children and youth groups. www.ebe.org.uk/ sundayservices Wednesdays - Footprints (welcoming group for senior citizens) - 2-3.30pm at Ebenezer Church building (286 Filton Avenue, BS7 0BA) - during term time only. www.ebe.org.uk/ footprints Thursdays - Taste Cafe (drop-in community cafe for all ages)10.30am-12.30pm at Ebenezer Church building (286 Filton Avenue, BS7 0BA) - during term time only. www.ebe.org.uk/cafe

Concord Wind Band

We are a friendly, mixed ability band, playing music for fun. Our new address is: Beechwood Club, Beechwood Rd, Fishponds, Bristol. BS16 3T. We welcome

new members. Contact Jayne on 07880724948.

Filton Bookworms

Are you interested in joining a reading group? Come along to the Bookworms monthly reading group at Filton Library!

1st Monday of each month 5:45pm -6:45pm If you are interested in Joining, please as inside the library. Phone: 01454 868006 or Email: Filton.library@southglos.gov.uk

Filton historical group Programme of talks 2022-2023

Wednesday 26 October - 7.30 pm

John & Martha Cossins of Redland Court' - Caroline Bateson

Wednesday 30 November - 7.30 pm 'Bristol in the 1950's' - Mike Hooper

Wednesday 22 February - 7.30 pm 'Sharpness to Yate via Shetland, An Industrial Trail' - Jim Pimpernell

Wednesday 29 March - 7.30 pm 'The Great Exhibition of 1851'John Stennard

Wednesday 26 April - 7.30 pm

AGM plus - 'The Myths & Legends of Sabrina, Goddess of the River Severn' - Nicola Haasz 'Lothlorian' The meetings will be held on Wednesday evenings in St. Andrews Church, Elm Park, Filton, Bristol BS 34 7PS

The membership cost for the complete program of six talks will be £20 (only a little more than £3 per talk). Guests (or those who wish only to come to selected talks) will be asked to pay £5 per session.

Filton Garden Club

We meet at 7.30pm on the first Wednesday of every month, (except January). We are a very friendly club & welcome new members. If you enjoy interesting talks & slideshows on various aspects of gardens, plants etc., & daytrips to gardens of interest, please come along & join us. We meet at St. Andrew's Church, Elm Park Filton, Bristol BS34 7PS

Primary school wins acclaim for work to improve pupils' speaking and listening skills

A local school has received national recognition for its work to develop its students’ oracy (speaking and listening) skills.

Filton Avenue Primary School has been selected by Voice 21, the national oracy education charity, as one of its first 7 Oracy Centres of Excellence. This accreditation certifies and celebrates schools that are leading the way in providing a high-quality oracy education for their students.

To become a Voice 21 Oracy Centre of Excellence, Filton Avenue Primary School had to demonstrate the quality of oracy education being provided across five areas of school life: the school’s vision, culture, curriculum, learning and impact on students.

As a Voice 21 Oracy Centre of Excellence, Filton Avenue will act as a beacon of good practice for oracy across the school system. It will support other schools in developing their students’ oracy skills, showcasing how explicit and purposeful oracy teaching can be so transformational for students’ learning and life chances.

Amy Gaunt, Director of Learning and Impact at Voice 21, said: “I’d like to congratulate Filton Avenue Primary on becoming one of Voice 21’s first Oracy Centres of Excellence. It’s a testament to the

innovative and inspirational oracy teaching by staff across school. This is already having significant impacts on students’ learning, and will be of huge benefit to them as they progress throughout school and in future education and employment opportunities.”

Dan Rodeck, Head Teacher at Filton Avenue said “Over the last four years the speaking and listening of our learners has been transformational. We strive to provide an education which puts communication at the heart of everything we do, to help our learners achieve their potential in their school life and beyond. ”

Filton Avenue Primary School has been accredited in the context of an increasing focus on oracy within the education sector. Earlier this year, then Schools Minister Robin Walker emphasised the importance of spoken language development in his mission to make England a world-leader in literacy.

Polling in 2021 found that two thirds of teachers believe that oracy is now high-priority as schools re-opened after pandemic-induced closures.

More than 500 schools have registered to work with Voice 21 and improve their oracy provision from September – Filton Avenue Primary School will be working with Voice 21 and these schools to support their oracy provision.