Colchester’s traditional Oyster Feast returns on Friday, 27 October 2023. But this year, in a break with tradition, the feast will be held at one of Colchester’s most prestigious venues, the Talbooth restaurant in Dedham.
and the Oyster Feast is a celebration of that history. It is a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together and enjoy some of our wonderful local oysters.
Did you know that fast fashion companies generate more pollution than international aviation and shipping combined?
At St Helena, we believe in playing our part in transforming fashion by promoting sustainability, reducing waste, and supporting the local community.
This September and October, discover the benefits of shopping for pre-loved and the importance of donating your unwanted fashion, giving it new life. We have 24 shops across the north east Essex region so why not drop in to grab yourself a bargain or shop with us online.
Your support means we can continue to provide vital care to local people
and their families facing incurable illness and bereavement.
Visit our website at www.sthelena.org. uk/fashion for more information about the campaign and how you can get involved.
St Helena is also delighted to be opening two new stores, in Tudor Parade in Jaywick and on St Christopher Road in Colchester, this September.
We are looking for a team of friendly, dedicated and passionate volunteers to help us continue to raise vital funds to care for the growing number patients and families in our local community who need access to our support and services.
If you're looking to meet new people, learn new skills and help make a difference then volunteering in our shops is the perfect role for you! No matter how much or little time you can give, your support is appreciated. You can find a full list of our volunteer vacancies at www.sthelena.org.uk/ volunteer.
Since it was first held in 1845, the Oyster Feast has celebrated Colchester’s rich heritage and community ties and established itself as a major occasion in the city’s civic calendar. Traditionally held in the Town Hall, this year’s feast has been relocated while extensive structural work in the Moot Hall continues.
The Feast is a special event that brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate the town's famous oysters. The event is attended by dignitaries from the local area and further afield, as well as members of the public who can apply for one of the limited number of tickets. Tickets cost £110 per person and include a pre-lunch reception, delicious meal, musical entertainment and special guest speakers, with the main attraction of the event being a celebration of the famous Colchester Oyster.
The Mayor of Colchester said: “As a former local fisherman, I know that Colchester has a long and proud maritime connection. The city’s history of oyster fishing is a testament to this,
“I would like to invite residents to apply for tickets to this year's feast. It is a truly unique and special event.
“So come one, come all, and join us for this year’s Colchester Oyster Feast! It will be a feast fit for a king... or a fisherman!”
To enter the public ballot for tickets guests should email mayor@ colchester.gov.uk with their name, address and telephone number.
Alternatively, written applications can be dropped off at the Town Hall or posted to Colchester City Council, Rowan House, 33 Sheepen Road, Colchester, CO3 3WG. Applications must be received by 1 September 2023 and will be entered in the ballot for two tickets – unless applicants state only one ticket is required. Successful applicants only will be advised by 18 September 2023.
Guest speakers will be announced at a later date.
For more information about the Mayor’s Civic events visit www.colchester.gov.uk/mayor
The Lie of the Land by Amanda Craig
Lottie and Quentin Bredin are a middle-aged couple, living in London. Their marriage is crumbling because Quentin is a serial philanderer, for which Lottie partly blames herself. Despite belonging to what Lottie describes as the luckiest generation in British history, the couple find themselves financially strained and unable to afford a divorce after losing their jobs since the credit crunch.
In an unconventional decision, Lottie suggests renting a cheap cottage in Devon and letting out their London house. Thus, they move to the countryside in a kind of antithesis of the usual ‘escape to country story’. There they grapple with challenges
including unwelcoming locals, their daughter being targeted by school bullies, and Lottie's mixed-race son from a previous marriage, being assumed to be an immigrant.
As the family becomes more involved with the local community, the novel explores the messiness of family life and the absurdities of living in contemporary Britain. Craig skilfully juxtaposes the metropolitan and rural worlds which provides some truly funny moments, but darker elements start to emerge, including a sinister secret within the cottage which is the reason for the exceptionally low rent.
Quentin struggles to adapt to the new lifestyle, frequently returning to London and his affairs. However, as he spends more time with his family, he begins to reflect on his emotional flaws and how they may be intertwined with his own upbringing.
While the narrative provides an energetic exploration of the darker side of countryside living including casual racism and hostile neighbours, the heart of the story lies in the evolving relationship between Quentin and Lottie. The Lie of the
Eat a Calcium-Rich Breakfast –Calcium is responsible for making bones hard and strong. Nearly all of our body's calcium is stored in our bones. Choose milk, cheese and yogurt, fortified orange juice, leafy greens, almonds, and fatty fish like salmon.
Land deftly captures the capacity for change in individuals and the multifaceted nature of human relationships, and endings which are not necessarily neat and tidy.
This beautifully illustrated children's book is set in a small coastal town. The story follows a young boy named Joey as he goes about his daily routine and reflects on the life of a miner.
Joey's father is a coal miner who works deep beneath the sea, extracting coal to support their family. Every day, Joey imagines his father's dangerous work while he enjoys the sunshine and plays with his friends. The contrast between the bright, vibrant world above ground and the darkness of the coal mine below is beautifully depicted through Sydney Smith's evocative illustrations.
As Joey explores the town, he visits different places that hold significance for him. He goes to the park, where he can see the sparkling sea in the
distance and dream about what lies beneath its surface. He visits the cemetery, where he pays respects to his ancestors who were also miners. And he goes to the local store, where his mother works, and imagines a future where he may have a different occupation.
Throughout the book, the reader gets a glimpse into Joey's close-knit community and the rhythm of their lives. They come together to support one another and to celebrate special moments, like the arrival of summer. However, the constant presence of the sea serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by Joey's father and the sacrifices made by the miners.
Town Is by the Sea is a poignant and contemplative book that explores themes of family, community, and the contrast between a child's innocent perspective and the realities of a challenging occupation.
By Tash Donovan
Our bones are amazing: they provide structure, allow us to move, protect our brain and vital organs, and store essential minerals.
As we age, our bone density can diminish, causing weak, brittle bones, which can lead to injury.
Fortunately, you can preserve and even improve the health of your bones and it's never too early or too late to start taking care of them.
Drink plenty of water – Drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning is an important part of bone health as well as overall health. Bones need water to do specific jobs, like storing minerals and making red blood cells inside the bone marrow. Water transports 99 percent of the calcium in foods you eat to your bones, so without proper hydration, you could end up with bone loss or osteoporosis.
Exercise for bone strengthWeight-bearing exercise can help strengthen bones, maintain bone density, and lower the risk for osteoporosis. This can include walking, running, dancing or any exercise where we’re on our feet, and also free weights, weight machines or bodyweight exercises.
Get outside - Sunshine is good for our bones. When our skin is exposed to sunlight, chemical reactions produce vitamin D, which helps with calcium absorption. Too little sun means our body won’t have enough vitamin D so starts to leach it from our bones instead, weakening them.
Posture - Practicing good posture cuts down on the wear and tear on joints and reduces stress on our muscles and ligaments. We should focus on our posture both when walking or standing, and when sitting in a chair.
By Louise Addison
Country music, with its heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies, has long held a special place in the hearts of millions of people worldwide. It is a genre that has managed to transcend time and boundaries. From its origins to its modern-day evolution, country music continues to resonate with listeners.
One of the primary reasons for this lies in its authenticity and relatability. The genre mostly tells stories of ordinary people's lives, their struggles, joys, and heartaches. The lyrics paint vivid pictures of everyday experiences, and listeners connect on a deeply emotional level. Whether it's tales of love, heartbreak, or the simple pleasures of life, country music captures the essence of human emotions with raw honesty and sincerity. It speaks to our shared experiences and creates a sense of connection, reminding us that we are not alone in our triumphs and tribulations.
Country music is a broad church. From traditional twangy tunes to modern pop-infused tracks, there is something for everyone within the country music realm. The genre's ability to adapt
and incorporate elements from other musical genres has contributed to its longevity and appeal. Whether it's the heartfelt ballads, foot-stomping anthems, or catchy hooks, country music's melodies resonate with listeners across generations, standing the test of time.
And then there is the strong sense of community and tradition that extends far beyond the songs themselves. The genre's fans, artists, and industry have created a close-knit community that celebrates its heritage and supports its members. Country music festivals, fan clubs, and charitable events serve as platforms for like-minded individuals to come together. The genre's commitment to preserving its roots and honouring its legends ensures that its rich traditions and values are passed down from generation to generation.
Country music's ability to evolve while staying true to its roots has allowed it to capture the imaginations of music lovers worldwide, solidifying its place as a beloved genre for years to come.
By Tom Hancock
Across
1 Crusade, expedition (10)
7 Troubled, dubious (2,5)
8 Type of shoe (4)
10 Hairless (4)
11 Twelfth month (8)
13 Bunny (6)
15 Duplicate (6)
17 Cinderella's were glass (8)
18 Quick (4)
21 Celebrity (4)
22 Speculated (7)
23 Give the go-ahead (5-5)
1 Cycle (5)
2 Hoodlum (4)
3 A little, quite (6)
4 Oily fish (8)
5 Adios (7)
6 gobbledygook (9)
9 Appreciation (9)
12 Scatter (8)
14 Vesicle, bubble (7)
16 Meagre (6)
19 Assign (5)
20 Complacent (4)
Walk With Words, a new project being launched in Colchester, invites a new generation of walkers to discover a rich archive of creative writing and visual imagery specially produced in collaboration with students from the University of Essex and the wider community.
Designed and curated by DallasPierce-Quintero, in collaboration with Burgess & Beech, the innovative wayfinding posts will encourage people to walk between the city centre, University of Essex and Greenstead. Each post will contain a unique QR code to access a variety of evolving digital content that aims to connect people and place, whilst making the walking route more enjoyable.
The £258,000 project is being funded by S106 contributions from the university student accommodation developments, as well as the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Safer Streets fund.
“We are delighted to be launching this project, which will help to make walking between the university and the city centre and the university and Greenstead more enjoyable and sustainable,” said Cllr Andrea Luxford Vaughan, the cabinet member for Planning, Environment and Sustainability.
“This is a great example of how we are working with partners to encourage more sustainable travel, and we hope that it will encourage more people to get out and walk.
“As well as encouraging walking, which will help to reduce emissions
puzzle solutions:
and improve air quality, this project will also help to make the route safer. By making people aware of the possibility of walking the route, we will encourage more walking, thereby increasing walkers’ safety through higher numbers using the routes.”
As well as promoting better travel links between the University of Essex and the city centre, and the university and Greenstead, the project will also help to boost economic links through improved awareness of the university for city centre residents and visitors.
Dallas-Pierce-Quintero, said: “We want people to think of walking as something that can be fun! Our aim is to empower walkers to explore their local area, be inspired by words that encourage creative thinking, maximise the physical health benefits of walking, whilst being mindful and present in their surroundings. Our Walk With Words concept ensures that no one journey will be the same, thus generating new conversations between an ever growing community of walkers.”
Burgess & Beech said: “We are excited to be collaborating with the people of Colchester to unearth hidden creativity in the area and help promote healthy living and exploration. We can’t wait to see the results as the library of digital content grows.”
Dr Daniel O'Brien, Lecturer in the Department of Literature Film and Theatre Studies at the University of Essex, said: “We hope the project will promote wellbeing, connect walking with the imagination, and invite the community to wander together through space and thought.
“This is a really exciting project to be involved with and sees our students working with the local community on a project which fuses mobility, poetry, story and visual imagery.
“Our students will be working closely with the creative team to curate an eclectic database of content –including material from local people - inspired by and accessible through the walking routes developed at the boundary of the city and surrounding countryside.”
Ros Green, Director Essex Book Festival, said: “We are thrilled to be playing a small part in the Walking With Words project. Not only is it a fascinating project in its own
right but it has the potential to kick start a plethora of other creative collaborations and opportunities for people living and visiting Colchester, including our Festival HQ, the University of Essex.”
The wayfinding route travels from St Botolph’s along Magdalen Street, Hythe Hill, Hythe Quay, and the Wivenhoe Trail to the swing basin and the university campus. There is also a spur proposed from the university to Greenstead via the Knowledge Gateway, Clingoe Hill and Salary Brook to Avon Way.
The project is expected to be implemented in late 2023.
Preparation time: 20 - 25 minutes
Ingredients
Cooking time: 30 minutes (Plus standing) Serves: 4
4 pork chops on the bone - about 3cm / 1.5 inches thick at room temperature.
1½ tbsp sunflower oil
salt and pepper for seasoning
Chunky Apple Sauce
450g cooking apples, cored and diced.
Method
Preheat the oven to 200C / 180C Fan / Gas mark 6. To make the apple sauce: Place the chopped apples, lemon juice and zest, sugar, and water into a heavy based saucepan. Bring to the boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Reduce the heat
4 tbsp caster sugar
finely grated zest 1/2 lemon
2 tsp lemon juice
4 tbsp water
¼ tsp ground cinnamon knob of butter
and simmer for 15 minutes, until the apples are tender. Add the butter and the cinnamon and beat the apples until you have a chunky sauce (if you prefer smooth, puree them). Remove the pan from the heat and cover to keep the sauce warm. Pat the pork chops dry and season well with salt and pepper. Heat the
sunflower oil in a large oven-proof frying pan over a medium-high heat, and fry for 3 minutes each side to brown them.
Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and roast the chops for 7-10 minutes, until cooked through. (The juices should run clear when you cut into a chop). Take the pan out of
the oven, cover with foil and let the chops rest for a few minutes. Transfer the chops to a plate, spoon over the pan juices and serve with the apple sauce, mashed potato, and vegetable of choice.
Watching The Chelsea Flower Show this year I was struck by how the hottest horticultural trends this year are budget-friendly. I assume that this was not an accident given the ongoing cost-of-living crisis in the UK. But whatever the reason there were many free and cheap garden ideas on show.
One of the hottest trends in the show garden was ‘weed-styling.’ Cleve West’s Centrepoint Garden was a masterclass in how to do this. Using ‘weeds’ or wildflowers is not only kind to your budget but also to the environment. Unsurprisingly, our native wildlife loves our native flora and dandelions are particularly good for bees. Encourage plants such as wild carrot, yarrow, ivy-leaved toadflax, common fennel, red valerian, and cow parsley.
Another trend on display was using rubble and reclaimed waste, which would otherwise go to landfill, to make a rockery, path, or wall. This look suits drought-tolerant plants such as rosemary, sedums, lavender, sage, phlomis, thyme and oregano.
Chaos gardening is an actual thing! Collect up any seeds that you have lying around and scatter them throughout your flowerbeds. Mix up annuals flowers with vegetables and once established it will produce a potager effect. I have one area of my garden called ‘freebie corner.’ It is stocked only with gifted plants, or those I’ve gleaned from cuttings or even in the case of one rose bush, removed from a skip, with the owner’s permission!
Leading on from this, try planting self-seeders. I have loads of aquilegia, meadow cranesbill, poppies, verbena, and forget-me-nots. They pop up all over the garden in random clumps every year.
I’ve banged on about making your own compost on this page for years. Just do it. Once your compost bin is established you will barely ever have to pay for expensive bags of compost again. You can start any time, and use grass cuttings, shredded paper, veg peelings and eggshells. Your garden will love you.
You can also try wilding your lawn. This is not for everyone because some people like their grass neat. But if your lawn is a bit motheaten or you hate mowing, try letting it grow. You will be amazed at the flowers, and the insects they attract. The trick to making it look like a style choice and not just neglect is curation. You can choose to wild just certain areas, leaving a central space on which to sit or play, or mow a wide meandering path or two through
the longer grass, or mow around the edge like a picture frame and keep the lawn well edged and the wild area contained to the centre. Try it. If you hate it, it’s simple enough to mow it short again.
Your garden is your space. It should work with you and your budget to provide a place where you can relax.
Happy gardening,
By Rachael Leverton
Ahoy, mateys! Avast ye, for it be time to set sail on a riotous journey through the history of International Talk Like a Pirate Day. This be a day like no other, where landlubbers and scallywags alike embrace their inner pirate and let loose with a hearty "Arr!" and a mighty "Yo-ho-ho!"
The tale begins in the year 1995 when two lads from Oregon, John Baur and Mark Summers, found themselves embroiled in a friendly game of racquetball. As the sweat poured from their brows and their imaginations ran wild, they discovered a shared love for all things pirate. It was then that they decided the world needed a special day to celebrate the swashbuckling lingo and antics of these seafaring rogues. And so, on September 19th, 1995, International Talk Like a Pirate Day was born! It started small, with just a handful of friends and acquaintances
joining in the fun, but it quickly gained traction. Before they knew it, their silly holiday had spread like wildfire across the seven seas.
As the years went by, Talk Like a Pirate Day grew from a quirky inside joke to a global phenomenon and a cherished tradition: a day where we can all set aside our responsibilities and embrace our silly side. It reminds us not to take life too seriously, to let out a hearty laugh, and to remember the childlike joy that comes from pretending to be a pirate, if only for a day.
So, me hearties, on this glorious day, hoist the Jolly Roger, sing a sea shanty, and let loose with your best pirate accent. For International Talk Like a Pirate Day is a testament to the enduring power of laughter and the universal appeal of a good "Arrrr!"
By Tom Hancock
When my son was eight his teacher called me to one side. “I’m concerned about his lack of progress lately,” she said, “And when I asked him why he hadn’t copied the spellings down from the whiteboard this afternoon he said he couldn’t see them.” This was how we discovered that Callum needed glasses. It had never been on my radar because no-one else in our family wears them, apart from his grandparents but most grandparents wear glasses because they are older, and older people wear glasses right? It came as a bit of a shock that poor Callum had been struggling for so long. I’d always taken him for regular dental checks, but he’d never had a sight test! #parentfail
A comprehensive eye examination ensures that a child has optimal vision, which plays a vital role in their education, participation in sports, and overall confidence. Additionally, eye examinations help identify conditions such as strabismus (where one of the eyes turns in or out), enabling early intervention and appropriate treatment.
Clear vision is essential for a child’s academic success. If vision problems remain unidentified then the child may experience difficulties with
reading, writing, and focusing on classroom activities, as Callum did. Regular eye examinations can identify refractive errors (such as shortsightedness, long-sightedness, and astigmatism) and ensure that the child receives the necessary corrective measures, such as spectacles or contact lenses. By addressing their visual impairments, a child can then fully engage in the classroom, meaning that their performance in school should improve.
Participation in sports is a valuable aspect of any child's physical and social development. Poor vision can affect hand-eye coordination, depth perception, reaction time, and ultimately their enjoyment of sport. Regular eye examinations will detect any vision problems that may hinder a child's ability to perform well in sports. In addition, optometrists and dispensing opticians can provide appropriate solutions, such as sports safety spectacles, prescription swimming goggles, or contact lenses. Strabismus, commonly known as crossed or misaligned eyes, is a condition that requires early identification and intervention. Regular eye examinations from birth can detect strabismus in its early stages, allowing for prompt referral
to a specialist. Early treatment can help correct the misalignment and improve the child's binocular vision, depth perception, and overall visual function. Identifying and managing strabismus at a young age is crucial for optimal visual development and can prevent long-term complications.
If like me you are fortunate enough to have excellent vision, this does not automatically bestow that same privilege on your child. Children with poor sight do not always know that they have poor sight because they have nothing to compare it with! I
could kick myself for not realising this sooner. Callum’s performance in school accelerated dramatically once he had the correct spectacles, and he’s gone on to do very well academically. The story might have been quite different but for his observant primary school teacher.
Think of regular eye examinations as an investment in your child's future success. Examinations are free up to the age of 18 for those in full time formal education.
By Kate McCarthyFill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition.
You don’t need to be a genius. These puzzles use logic alone. Watch out! Sudoku is highly addictive.
I loved music lessons at school. I was part of the African drum group and sang in the school choir. I was never going to be one of the stars, like Katie the clarinet prodigy or Tom the classical pianist, who were wheeled out for all official school events, and I wasn’t cool enough to be in the school rock band, but none-the-less I sang in school assemblies and the Christmas show, and thanks to Earl my Djembe teacher, I can still tell a Dunungbe from a Fankani.
Learning to play a musical instrument as a child offers a multitude of benefits that extend far beyond the realm of music itself.
When we learn a musical instrument or take part in organised singing we engage various cognitive functions, including memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. It has been shown to improve academic performance, particularly in areas such as mathematics, language development, and spatial-temporal reasoning. Playing an instrument or singing in a choir requires discipline and practice, which cultivates perseverance and time management skills. The cognitive abilities and work ethic developed through music are transferable skills, which lead to greater success in school and beyond.
Music sparks creativity and allows children to express themselves in a unique way. It nurtures imagination and emotional intelligence, as through music children learn both to convey and evoke a wide range of feelings. Whether through composing original pieces or interpreting existing works, children develop their artistic sensibilities and gain confidence in their creative abilities. This creative outlet provides a means of self-
expression and exploration that can be carried throughout their lives.
And music is fun. It offers a sense of accomplishment and fulfilment as children progress and master new skills. The process of practicing, refining, and eventually performing music is immensely satisfying and uplifting. I can provide lifelong pleasure and be an ongoing source of relaxation and stress relief.
Playing or singing in a group facilitates social interactions and provides opportunities for collaboration. Children who participate in choirs, ensembles, bands, or orchestras develop teamwork and cooperation skills, learning to listen to others and synchronize their playing with fellow musicians. These group experiences foster a sense of camaraderie and can create lifelong friendships. Additionally, participating in performances and sharing music with others boosts a child’s confidence in their ability to express themselves effectively in social situations.
Learning a musical instrument as a child provides a solid foundation for a well-rounded and enriched life. It stimulates cognitive development, nurtures creativity, offers a source of enjoyment, and fosters social skills. These benefits continue to shape individuals as they mature into adulthood, providing them with lifelong skills and a deep appreciation for the arts. Whether pursuing music professionally or as a hobby, the impact of learning an instrument during childhood is immeasurable, contributing to personal growth, self-expression, and a lifelong love of music…which can only be a good thing.
By Tracey AndersonThe death of a pet is an emotional and challenging experience for children (and let’s be honest their parents too). Here are some strategies to help children cope.
Be Honest and Age-Appropriate
- When explaining the death of a pet to a child, be honest and use age-appropriate language. Avoid using euphemisms or confusing explanations.
Encourage Expression of Feelings
- Allow children to express their feelings openly. Encourage them to talk about their emotions, ask questions, or share memories of their pet. Listen attentively and validate their feelings. Let them know that grief is natural and that you are there to support them.
Create a Memorial or Ritual –This can provide closure. Create a memory box with photos, drawings, or written messages. Plant a tree or flowers to serve as a physical reminder of their beloved companion. You might hold a small ceremony or ritual to say goodbye.
Answer Questions Truthfully
- Provide age-appropriate explanations. Avoid giving excessive details or speculating. It's okay if you don't have all the answers; let them know that some things are uncertain or beyond our control.
Maintain Routine - This can provide stability and a sense of security during a time of loss. Stick to regular mealtimes, bedtimes, and engage in normal activities.
Keeping familiar routines can help children feel grounded during this period of adjustment.
Encourage Expression through Art or Writing - Art and writing can be therapeutic outlets for children to express their emotions. Encourage them to draw pictures, write stories or poems, or create a scrapbook dedicated to their pet.
Support Decision-MakingInvolve the child in any decisions regarding burial or cremation. Give them a sense of involvement to provide a sense of closure and allow them to say goodbye in a meaningful way. Offer choices, such as where to bury their pet, or whether they’d like a marker.
Be Patient - Grief takes time, and each child processes loss differently. Be patient and understanding with their emotions. Provide comfort and reassurance by offering hugs, cuddles, or simply being present when they need someone to lean on.
When to consider getting a new pet - Deciding when to introduce a new pet into the family is a personal choice. Some children (and adults) find comfort and healing in welcoming a new pet, while others may need more time. If the family decides to adopt a new pet, involve the child in the process, and help them understand that the new pet will not replace their beloved companion but will bring new joy and love.
By Sarah Daveyskirts. Private schools, on the other hand, tend to have more distinct and elaborate uniforms, reflecting their individual traditions and values. These uniforms may include striped blazers, shirts, kilts, and unique accessories.
It’s a generalisation though: the state school referred to above insists on below-the-knee pleated plaid skirts for the girls and a bewildering array of ties relating to houses, sports teams, and upper or lower school…I needed a spreadsheet to work it all out.
They can also instil discipline and a sense of equality, as students are judged based on their character rather than their fashion choices. Uniforms can help eliminate distractions caused by clothing choices, reducing peer pressure and bullying related to appearance. Additionally, uniforms simplify dress codes, making it easier for students and parents to comply with school policies.
The British school uniform is an iconic symbol of education, fostering a sense of identity, pride, and tradition.” So proclaims the prospectus of one of the schools we’re considering for my son. It’s a state school by the way: I did a quick double check to see that I hadn’t googled Eton by mistake!
Both state-funded and private schools in the UK commonly employ school uniforms. State school uniforms are historically more standardized, perhaps a specific colour scheme and a school badge, alongside more basic attire like plain shirts, trousers, and
One major bone of contention surrounding school uniforms in the UK is the issue of cost. Critics argue that the expense of purchasing uniforms, especially from specific suppliers, places an additional and unreasonable financial burden on families. This controversy is amplified in cases where schools require branded items, which are always more expensive. As a result, calls for more affordable uniform options or even a relaxation of strict uniform policies have emerged to alleviate the financial strain on families in the current economic climate.
Proponents of school uniforms highlight several advantages. Uniforms foster a sense of belonging, promoting a shared identity and pride in the school community.
Critics of school uniforms counter with concerns about individuality and self-expression. They argue that uniforms may stifle creativity and suppress students' ability to develop their personal style. Some argue that enforcing uniformity can be oppressive and hinder a student's sense of autonomy. They contend that uniforms do not guarantee improved academic performance or behaviour, and instead schools should concentrate on fostering a positive school culture and supportive environment.
In recent years, there have been calls for a more inclusive approach to school uniforms, considering factors like gender identity, cultural diversity, and personal comfort. Efforts to accommodate religious or cultural practices within uniform policies have been made, allowing for greater diversity and understanding.
Despite the ongoing debates and controversies surrounding school uniforms in the UK, they show no sign of going away. Personally, I think that as educational institutions continue to adapt to the changing needs and perspectives of students and families, it is essential to strike a balance between tradition and individuality, and certainly in the state system costs should be kept to a minimum. By considering the experiences of students, parents, and educators, schools can shape their uniform policies in a way that encourages inclusivity, self-expression, and a positive learning environment for all.
By Laurence SmithFill your summer evenings with adventures, excitement and challenges with Colchester Castle’s after-hours experiences.
With the Serpent’s Curse escape experience, adventure awaits! The Castle’s now legendary escape experience is sure to give you an adrenaline packed evening.
Feel the tension as the clues build and you and your group try to break the curse before your time runs out!
Will you be able to save the Castle Museum?
For a more personal touch to your evening, Colchester Castle offers private tours. It’s your tour, so you choose what you want to hear about. Learn more about the Romans, witchcraft and magic, the Normans or leave it up to the team. Whatever you choose, with the experienced and knowledgeable tour guides you’ll have the best one-of-a-kind after-hours adventure through time.
All experiences are suitable for various occasions from birthday celebrations to corporate team building or just fun family gatherings.
Councillor Cllr Michelle Burrows, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Culture and Heritage, said:
“Unleash your inner adventurer with the Castle’s fun packed after hours experiences. These unique, unforgettable experiences are only available after hours making them memorable and exceptional value for money.”
The Serpent’s Curse is suitable for ages 10+ and runs from 5.30pm, costing £80 for 1-5 people, £100 for groups of 6-8 people.
To book please call 01206 282939. Find out more www.colchester. cimuseums.org.uk/afterhours/
Private Admission Tours cost £80 for 1-5 people, £100 for groups of 6-8 people.
Contact the Castle on 01206 282939 for individual priced packages or if your group is more than 8 people.
Some availability is also possible during the afternoons. Find out more: www.colchester.cimuseums.org.uk/ afterhours/
The property market has settled and prices have stablised, giving purchasers and sellers alike relief from price surges and the stress of buying your future home at an affordable price. Here at Michaels, our highly skilled property pros will secure the best price possible for your home, whilst negotiating a great deal on the property you wish to buy. If you’d like discuss your needs or want to set up a free valuation of yours to see where you stand financially, contact our Colchester team today.
