Arlesey NEWS
News Events Information
From the Editor
Welcome to September!
We have so much to bring you inside the 75th issue of the Arlesey News Magazine, that we are apologising openly to all of our deliver y volunteers for the extra weight this month! A huge thank you to ever yone that has helped us on our journey to our 75th edition, the suppor t we have received during the past 6 years+ has been incredible and we be forever grateful to ever yone who has helped make it possible in any way
Inside this issue you’ll find an abundance of interesting features and ar ticles coupled together with some new & exciting adver tisers. Look out for our special ‘Open Evening’ feature for those readers with young people looking to embark upon the next step of their education journey In our Local Life feature this month we chat to local MP Alistair Strathern as he reflects over his last twelve months in office and the issues directly impacting residents of Arlesey
Thank you so much to Theresa Mar tin for sending us in the wonder ful sunflower shot taken in her back garden which we chose as our front cover for September - we think it’s smashing!
We hope you enjoy your September edition! Until next month!
Joanne - Editor
With thanks to this month’s contributors:
Theresa Mar tin (FRONT COVER) Jo Loach, Local schools, groups, organisations, Arlesey Brownies, Arlesey Guides, Alistair Strathern MP, Arlesey Town Council, The Need Project, St Peter ’s Church, Arlesey W I, ATFC plus our regular adver tisers
Contact: arlesey news@yahoo com or write to us at Arlesey News Magazine, 78 Hitchin Road, Stotfold, Her tfordshire, SG5 4HT Tel: 01462 731986 You can also contact us via our facebook page
Deliveries: We have over 120 volunteers that deliver the News Magazines If for any reason you do not receive your copy of the magazine please contact us to let us know Published by
2
our Child’s Next
Page 17
Final For Pri ya Page 5 Arl ese y Timeline C ontinues Page 24
Update from The Need Project
Local Life - Alistair Strathern MP
Update from ACE News from Pix Brook Academy News from Etonbur y Academy Local Spor ts News
Update from ATFC Family Announcements
Special Feature - Menopause Matters
Special Feature - Next Steps News from St Peter ’s Church Memor y Lane
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All this alongside all our usual news from our local churches groups, clubs & organisations..
justgiving com/g ardenh ouseh ospice
Announcements: We are happy to accept family announcements by post telephone, email or through our facebook page If you would like to make a donation in return for your announcement then please visit the website above Please mention that the donation has been made on behalf of the Stotfold & Arlesey News Magazine
Adver tising/Editorial deadline 6th September 2025 see www.stotfoldandarleseynews.co.uk
Arles ey Gui de s Just W anna H ave Fun! Page
Arle sey Athlete Denis e H eads For Oz ! Page 12
Step
Lo cal Life wi th MP Alis tair Strathern Page 7
NEWS
Looking For A dventure, Fun & Friendship?
Are you a girl aged 10–14 who’s ready to tr y new things, make amazing friends, and go on unforgettable adventures? Then why not join our local Guide unit! From camping under the stars and toasting marshmallows at campfires, to action-packed days of rugby, football, and even throwing tomahawks and archer y - they really do it all!
Love travel? They take trips to theme parks and even head to London to play Monopoly Run Live a across the city streets! We have oppor tunities for you to travel fur ther afield too!
You’ll also get the chance to ser ve your community, earn exciting badges, and develop skills that will last a lifetime
Whether you’re bold and brave or quiet and curious, there’s a place for you here Come be par t of something extraordinar y. Your adventure star ts now join Guides!
Arlesey Guides meet one Saturday a month 9am-12pm Email 1starleseyguides@gmail.com for more information.
Update From Arlesey Brownies
The Brownies finished the term with some outdoor cooking and finding out all about bees. They had great fun using ‘What three words’ to help solve some orienteering puzzles to win tokens for their supper.
Tthey couldn’t light fires because of the hot dr y weather so cooked their sausages and s’mores on gaz stoves Delicious! Their last meeting was a fabulous visit to Buzzworks to do all things Bee They did the waggle dance, made bee bombs, tasted honey and visited the hives.
Brownies has broken up for the summer holidays now but if you’re 7 and would like to join them in September for fun, friendship and adventure, check out their Facebook page to see all the things they do or DM or email them at arlesey.brownies@hotmail.co.uk to find out more about joining
ARLESEY WI
Lisa Cranston will be our speaker, she is from the Bedfordshire branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust which is one of the UK's top animal welfare charities, who operate five rehoming centres across the South of England We are sure she will have some hear twarming stories about the animals they re -home and the work they do. If you’re not a member and would like to join please call Rita on 01462 638347
The Brownies enjoying many outdoor activities
Something for ever yone to enjoy at Arlesey guides - why not give it a tr y?
NEWS
Local Girl Priya Is Miss Teen Great Britain
Finalist!
Local girl, Priya Mudahar, has won a place in the final of Miss Teen Great Britain 2025 Priya from Stotfold has beaten off competition from across Great Britain to be named as one of the finalists ‘Priya says, I am so excited to have made it to the final, it is a great achievement!’
Teenagers from across Great Britain will compete for the crown in a spectacular grand final. The winner of Miss Teen Great Britain will walk away with some incredible prizes – i The grand final will be held in 2025 in Blackpool. Priya will offically be entered as Miss Junior Teen Bedfordshire 2025. The weekend is set to be full of fun, with the finalists enjoying a Beauty Queen Challenge Day, a pyjama diva par ty and much more!
Fair field W.I
Why not come along and see for yourself what fun we have! Ever yone is welcome!
3rd September - 7 00pm Speaker - Christopher Church
Losing England landscape - Raising awareness of issues brought about by climate change in England
Email fair fieldbedswi@gmail com for fur ther details.
CRIME FIGURES FOR ARLESEY May 2025
The most recent crime figures from the Poilce national website:
Violence & sexual offences - 9
Criminal damage & arson - 2
Anti- social behaviour - 10
Other crime - 5
Other theft - 3
Remember in an emergency call 999. To repor t a crime online contact www police co uk
Local teen Priya Mudahar wins place in Miss Teen Great Britain 2025
Update From The Need Project
As usual I sta month for us But, honestly these days are so busy and July was no exception, even though we usually have less referrals due to school holidays and the vouchers which are given out by agencies.
We continue to be amazed at how our
keeps coming in, just when we need it God is so good to us We can do nothing without our suppor ters, who really buy into what we are tr ying to do locally for our neighbours, so thank you.
The Chapel is progressing well with phase 1 of our plans, but we have set back our moving date, due to the additional work we are tacking on, which is par t of phase 2. This will mean, there will be no disruption, when phase 2 eventually star ts, on our main focus, which is our food ministr y (phase 1). We hope to have an open day nearer the time of our move, so we can show people how our food ministr y works We should also be able to share about the plans for phase 2 with some illustrations
Established 1971
I have made the decision to retire from my position as the project leader It was always planned, as I know that God
position for a time, but now it is time for someone else to take over, someone who God has called to take on the next steps of this amazing work (I honestly know I’m not that person and I’m at peace with it). I’m sure I will be involved with the chapel development, but the ever yday work of the food ministr y will be down to someone else and not me.
So, in closing, please pray for the project, for me, for the chapel work and the new project director . We need so much as a project, food, finance, direction and more. Wisdom too, but without God and prayer we are dead in the water
Finally, I want to thank ever y person involved with the project, you are priceless and I thank God for you Praise God always, Gordon
OUR MONTH IN FIGURES:
660 parcels provided in 20 working days • 515 top- up-bags collected from our Pop- up sites • £48,050 estimated value of the food for the month • £6,602 50, the average monthly cost to run the charity 1660 adults, 1508 children & 280 pensioners helped (includes best before food )
LOCAL life..
p y g
Alistair Strathern as he tells u s about his pre vious 12 months in office
Alistair, we imagine the previous twelve months have been ver y busy for you - can you give our readers an over view on what you have been up to? Yes of course I hope this update finds all of your readers well It has been a little over a year now since you elected me to ser ve Arlesey, giving me the oppor tunity of representing us all in Parliament as MP for our Hitchin constituency
It’s been a real privilege to represent a community so committed to improving our area From fantastic local events, brilliant groups like the Arlesey Rail User Group, and great engagement whenever I’m out on the doorstep, my work has always been better for our communities commitment to championing our area.
Can you give us some insight into your main focus for Arlesey? As our MP, I’ve been determined to improve local healthcare facilities. We all know the challenges faced by patients tr ying to access Larksfield and Arlesey GP surger y. Since before the general election, I’ve been working closely with the patients group and town council to push for action I’m glad to this lead to an increase of 50% in the number of GP appointments offered compared to last year, but there is clearly still more to do
Its clear fur ther improvements are needed to the triage and booking system, as well as overall capacity, and rest assured I’ll be continuing to push for these Alongside this I was glad to help secure over £11m in funding for repairs and upgrades at Lister and Beds hospitals, providing crucial improvements to help get them back on their feet
What other issues have been at the forefront of your work these last months? Too many young people and their families in Arlesey have also been impacted by the twin challenges of the stalled 3 to 2 tier school transition and the failing state of special educational needs (SEND) provision I’ve been regularly challenging CBC to do better, convening local cllrs and heads to push for our local cluster to be prioritised for completion
On SEND, I have been a vocal campaigner for reforms locally and in Parliament. Locally, we’ve suppor ted countless families take on CBC and pushed them to do better by local schools like gothic Mead and Ivel Valley, and nationally I was glad to help secure £1bn of extra funding for SEND provision. There is lots more to do though to ensure our schools work for ever y young person who needs them.
As a town, we have various other local issues effecting residents on a daily basis - can you tell us a little about the work you have been doing to help resolve these issues going for ward? Far too many local commuters have been let down by train ser vices at Arlesey Train Station too I’ve set up regular accountability meetings to push Thameslink to improve recruitment and process, and am working closely with Ministers to ensure we are able to drive through fur ther improvement after the ser vice is nationalised Separately, I’ve been working with the local user group to improve signage at the car parks, and push for long overdue accessibility improvements.
On top of these we’ve also been pushing on a whole host of local issues. From action to tackle problematic speed bumps to a greater local police presence to take on pockets of ASB.
As always, if there is any thing me and my team can do to suppor t you, we are always here to help. Don’t hesitate to get in contact: alistair strathern mp@parliament uk
We love to learn more about the peo ple that m ak e S totfo ld suc h a wonderful co mmunity to live in
If you know somebody who would like to par ticipate in a future LOCAL LIFE feature then get in touch!
Ali stair Str at her n - MP for Arlesey
WORKING STEAM WEEKEND
9 th t
Ploughing Displays by:
- Heavy Horses
- Steam Engines
- Vintage Tractors
Also Featuring:
- Threshing Machine
- Saw Milling Machine
- Stationary Engines
- Commercial Vehicles
- Vintage Cider Press
- Traditional Crafts
Far ming Past and Present:
-
-Fun Stuff For Kids:
-Vintage Swing Boats
-Fair Rides
Mill Open Both Days:
- Stotfold Mill Flour for Sale
- Randall’s Tea Room
- Kingfisher Gift Shop
- Milling Demonstrations
Hot/Cold Food & Drink
Licensed Bar in the Marquee
News From
Arlesey Community Events
Now that the summer holidays are over it's time to star t thinking about Christmas! We will be holding a Christmas Fair on Saturday November 29th, 3-6pm at Arlesey Village and WI Halls
The Christmas Lights will be switched on at approximately 5 30pm If you are interested in having a stall at the Christmas Fair or helping us with the setting up/clearing away please get in touch Booking forms will be available from early September
We are also hoping to organise the Arlesey Advent windows again this year. For those that haven't seen this before, it is a community event where residents and businesses decorate their windows with a festive design and illuminate them each evening during advent. It's like a large, outdoor advent calendar that people can follow as they walk or drive round Arlesey!
If you would like to host one of this years windows please drop us an email before the end of October
Please keep an eye on our Facebook page for updates about the Advent windows and the Christmas Fair.
News from Pixbrook A c ademy
It is with immense excitement and a deep sense of privilege that I write this first ar ticle as Principal of Pix Brook Academy (PBA) at the star t of the 2025-2026 academic year
PBA and our wider community have been nothing shor t of amazing over the last few transitioning months and the suppor t, as well as the oppor tunities that a new academic year brings, fills me with positive energy and an abundance of enthusiasm for all we will achieve together as a thriving community
To our new Year 5 students and their families, a ver y warm welcome! We are absolutely delighted to have you join us.
We know this is a significant step, and we're committed to ensuring each young person has a truly enriching and successful experience here at Pix Brook. Students arrived prepared and positive, and wore their uniform with pride. Despite some initial ner ves, they have settled incredibly well!
We have also welcomed a number of new staff to PBA and I would like to take this oppor tunity to wish them all the ver y best. They bring an abundance of experience, as well as some new ideas and initiatives that will add to our extended secondar y school, now with all year groups in place – a truly historic moment
For those considering Pix Brook Academy for their child's future, we warmly invite Year 4 students and their families to our Open Evening on Thursday, October 16th This is a wonder ful oppor tunity to experience first-hand our fantastic facilities; meet our dedicated Key Stage 2 team, and engage with other key staff members who make Pix Brook such a special place We'll be offering guided tours of the academy We can't wait to welcome you and show you all that Pix Brook Academy has to offer!
Our collective vision at Pix Brook has always been to educate socially responsible citizens, and this core purpose combined with our “Owning Our Actions, Shaping our Future” mantra means we are set and motivated to suppor t all students to be resilient, responsible, independent and ambitious I am looking for ward to this busy term and all that it will bring
Charlotte Lineham - Principal
Principal Charlotte Lineham welcomes students back from summer
Welcome to the new term!
News from Etonbur y A c ademy
We have so much to look for ward to this academic year, welcoming our new September
into the sixth form!
Here at Etonbur y Academy we are a school where ever y child can shine Our children are confident, love learning and flourish our people are dedicated professionals who care and nur ture ever y individual child by unlocking thier full potential to be the best that they can be Our proven track record gives you ever y good reason to consider Etonbur y as the right school for your child Did you know we have the best GCSE results in Bedfordshire?
Arriving in year fiive, our first class learning environment provides a seamless education through to year 13, enabling our children to aim high By encouraging a love of learning and building confidence, we ensure ever y child fulfills their individual potential according to their own abilities, skills and interests We belive in educating the whole child - inside the classroom and beyond, by giving them an engaging curriculum and a vibrant and adventurous programme of extra -curricular activities.
Etonbur y’s facilities, resources and specialist teaching are second to none. so too is our commitment to pastoral care. This is a place where ever y child is safe, secure and suppor ted. Ever y single member of our learning community - students, staff and parents - are par t of our success stor y. Together we make Etonbur y Academy a school to be ver y proud of. We’d be delighted to welcome prospectives families to our open evening, Thursday 3 October, or if you would like a personal tour, please do get in touch with us on 01462 730391 or via email eta -office@bestacademies org uk to book We believe we offer a small, compassionate and exceptional educational community and we invite you to come and see for yourself what makes Etonbur y so special Please continue to share in our valesEver yone is respectful, Together we care Always aim higher
Mrs J Young - Principal. Etonbur y Academy
Local Spor ts News
Arlesey athlete Denise Brazier is heading to the iF3 Masters World Championships in Australia this November – and she needs your suppor t!
Denise Brazier, a top-level athlete, has been officially selected to represent Team Great Britain at the prestigious iF3 Masters World Championships in Brisbane, Australia this November Denise is currently ranked among the top three athletes in her age division across the UK, and her international selection is a testament to years of unwavering dedication all while balancing full- time work, family life, and a demanding training schedule Most recently, Denise competed at the European Championships in Amsterdam, showcasing her consistency and drive on the international stage
Together with her coach, Denise runs Henlow Functional Fitness, a local gym in nearby Henlow that coaches’ individuals of all ages in the spor t of functional fitness with a strong focus on master ’s athletes (aged 35 and up)
Now, as Denise prepares to fly the flag for Great Britain, the community is coming together to raise funds to help with the costs associated with travel, accommodation, and competition fees “This oppor tunity means the world to me,” says Denise “I’m proud to represent Arlesey, our gym, and Team GB on the world stage but I can’t get there alone ”
Any suppor t whether through sponsorship, donations, or simply spreading the word will make a meaningful difference on Denise’s Road to Brisbane.
We will be holding raffles and running a quiz night on 27th September at the Grange Community Centre Letchwor th and selling suppor ter t- shir ts to help raise funds. Any business who may be interested in getting involved, please contact us for fur ther details.
For regular updates on Denise’s journey, follow Instagram @denise brazier hff Website: www henlowfunctionalfitness co ukEmail: hello@henlowfunctionalfitness co uk
Denise training hard for the competition in Brisbane in November.
Update From Arlesey Town FC
It’s been an incredibly successful opening couple of weeks of the season for us here at Arlesey Town Football Club An opening day win against highly rated AFC Welwyn, a solid draw against Cockfosters, and a resounding 5-1 win against Kempston Rovers, has seen us burst out of the blocks The latter result being our first FA Cup win since 2021 We will face tough competition in the next round, against MK Irish Only 12 more rounds to go until Wembley
Off the pitch, we have incredible suppor t with our new Sponsors coming onboard this campaign A massive thank you and ATFC welcome to JPT, First Step and Bandit’s Shop We are still in desperate need of more suppor t, so if you have a business, we would love to hear from you Various par tnerships and shir t sponsorships packages are available
We face the unusual prospect of not having a home game in the month of August until Tuesday 26th August (19:45 Kick Off ) against Crawley Green. However, September looks to be a busier month, with the following fixtures in the diar y:
06/09/25 – 15:00 - Arlesey Town v Haringey Borough
13/09/25 – 15:00 – Arlesey Town v Aylesbur y Vale Dynamos
30/09/25 – 19:45 - Arlesey Town v Harpenden Town
We have new pricing for our home games this season. £9.00 Standard, £5 00 Concessions (Over 65’s, Students) Children under 16 are just £1 00, as par t of our “Kids for a Quid” initiative, but must be accompanied by an adult over the age of 16 Access Companions are free of charge Please do come down to a game and lend your suppor t
As ever, matchday tickets, club events, and Memberships can be purchased online from www arlesey townfc co uk or direct from www ticketsource co uk/arlesey- town-football-club or by scanning the QR Code to the right
We look for ward to welcoming you to our club
WELLBEING WALKS
Are you looking to make new friends?
Wellbeing Walks are a local walking group where ever yone is welcome Walks star t at 10.45am
September 4th - Etonbur y Wood -School entrance 11th, 18th, 25th - Corner of Hospital Rd, Arlesey. Contact Beth Over field on 01462 815672
Nor th Her ts Road Runners
Entries are now open for the Standalone 10k on 5th Oct with entr y details on www nhrr org uk/standalone 10k
The 1st of the month at Letchwor th Common will be on September 6th at 9am and is open to runners of all abilities with free entr y
We continue our training sessions on Tues and Thurs with qualified coaches and meet in Letchwor th at 7pm We welcome runners of all abilities so come along for a taster session. Our details are on nhrr.org.uk or contact Ian 07506 429928
family announcements are FREE f h
w w w justgiving com/gardenhousehospice
Announcements: We are happy to accept family announcements by post, telephone, email or through our facebook page If you would like to make a donation in return for your announcement then please visit the website above. Please mention that the donation has been made on behalf of the Arlesey News Magazine
Why not surprise someone with an announcement in the Arlesey News? All we need is Email us at arlesey.news@yahoo.com
SHAUN JONES 28th September
Wishing you a ver y Happy Bir thday from all your friends & family! x
LENNON & HARRISON
Happy 18th Bir thday!
We hope you enjoy your celebrations! Love from all the family xx
Happy 4th Bir thday GR ACIE 28th September
Love from Nanny and Grandad xxx
All types of electrical work under taken. Installation, Fault finding, Heating controls Test and inspection, EV charge points, NICEIC approved contractor
Tel: 07817 545314
E:bk electrical@outlook com
PETE SHARP 1st October 1944
Happy Bir thday to a special Husband, Dad and Grandad
With love from us all X xx
Happy 14th Bir thday EDEN
Have a great day, lots of love Mum x
Happy 8th Bir thday to our lovely LILS! 25th August
Hope you have the most amazing day
Lots of love, Mummy, Daddy & George xxxx
PETE & CHERRY WICKLOW
Congratulations to Cherr y and Peter Wicklow of Stotfold who celebrate their Diamond Wedding Anniversar y on the 4th September 2025
With love from your children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren XX
Happy Bir thday ALEX! 11th September
To the best Hubby and Daddy ever!
Lots of love, Eve and Freddie xx
Menopause
Menopause Matters
Following a recent conversation with someone star ting on HRT, I felt compelled to write this While menopause has never been so broadly discussed in the media before, there are still many my ths and misunderstandings surrounding it For exper t information and advice, tr y Dr Louise Newson for her Balance FB page offering information and an App to track cycles and symptoms For readers, I recommend, ‘Older and wider ’ , by Jenny Éclair (hilarious) and, ‘What is wrong with me?’, by Lorraine Candy (encouraging) For those preferring TV or podcasts tr y all things Davinia McCall
ers with Jo Loach
Menopause is when a woman has had no period for over twelve months. Perimenopause is the time preceding this when your periods may change by becoming lighter / shor ter/heavier/different Our system may then star t to malfunction in multiple ways as hormones are connected to most par ts of the bodily system, stretching way beyond hot flushes
What I wish I had known before entering perimenopause is, 1) it existed, 2) that it can star t in the 40’s (earlier for some), 3) that GP’s are not always trained on Menopause, 4) to trust ourselves as we are the exper t on our own body and to persevere until finding a knowledgeable GP or Menopause Nurse who helps you navigate it. The symptoms range from; anxiety/depression ( fatigue, brain fog, sleeplessness, forgetfulness, clumsiness, losing things (especially the plot), rage tear fulness,
nausea, joint pain and many more As a Christian, I’ve found myself having a few choice conversations with the Almighty about how he didn’t come down here in a female body! Ever y woman’s body is different in experience, as well as in what helps or hinders it. Fur thermore, the latest research shows that histor y plays a role as symptoms may be exacerbated by childhood trauma (Adverse Childhood Experience ACE), long covid (proven to impact ovaries, thus hormones), stress and neurodivergence. When any/all of these are present, the risk of burnout also increases.
If you want to know you are not going mad, or alone, there is an extremely friendly Menopause group who meet bimonthly in Ruth’s Café, Stotfold Vicky Sharpe, who runs a Physiotherapy clinic, Physio Health Hub, hosts The Menopause Café as a welcoming space to chat, share experiences and suppor t one another through the menopause journey The café opens at 7.30pm with a speaker on a specialist subject star ting at 8pm before closing at 9pm. The next meeting is Wednesday 24th September with a menopause coach, speaking. Anyone is welcome to come along. You can read more from Jo on her blog: joloach.com'
Menopause, a hot topic in more ways than one!
Nex t Steps
Whether your child is ready to take their first steps into education or choosing their next step post GCSE, we fully understand the impor tance of accessing the right information in order to help make the most informed choices.
Over the following few pages you will find details on a selection of local open events, which we hope will help to navigate you through your child’s next steps....
We are delighted that this special feature has been sponsored by Kip McGrath Education Centre, Letchwor th who offer exper t tutoring from fully qualified, experienced primar y and secondar y teachers. Looking to secure additional help for your childs education? Look no fur ther than Kip McGrath.
Proudly sponsored by Kip McGrath Education Centre 56a Station Road, Letchwor th, Her ts SG6 3BE
Nex t Steps
The Highfield School: Working together we succeed and thrive Families are warmly invited to attend the Open Evening on Thursday 25th September between 6pm and 8 30pm to discover what makes The Highfield School a place where ever y student can succeed As The Highfield School prepares to welcome prospective families to its Open Evening, Headteacher Lucy Miles shares what makes the school such a special place to learn “It’s a privilege to lead a school where students are encouraged to thrive both academically and personally,” says Mrs Miles “Our vision, ‘we work together to succeed and thrive’, is at the hear t of ever y thing we do ”
The Highfield School is known for its high expectations, excellent teaching, and strong community ethos Students are suppor ted to achieve their best through a curriculum that is both challenging and engaging While English, Maths,
The Highfield School
OPEN DAYS & EVENING
EVENING: Thursday 25 September 6.00PM - 8.30PM th Headteacher talks 6.15PM & 7.15PM
Mornings: Mon 29 Sept, Tues 30 Sept, Wed 1 Oct, Thurs 2 Oct & Fri 3 Oct 2025 @ 9.00AM
Science, Humanities and Languages are key areas of focus, creativity and the ar ts are equally celebrated Equally impor tant is the development of character The school’s values Caring, Respectful, and Determined guide students in becoming responsible, confident individuals
our
and the
of community here,” Mrs
adds For more information, contact admin@highfield.her ts.sch.uk or call 01462 620500.
“We’re proud of
students
strong sense
Miles
Students at Highfield School follow a challenging and engaging curriculum
The Knights Templar school in Baldock is a vibrant and successful school with high expectations, a reputation for academic excellence and a strong sense of community
Central to ever y thing we do is the school’s motto ‘Courage and Cour tesy’. We are fully committed to preparing our young people to be thoughtful, capable, responsible citizens of the future. This is a great school, staffed with passionate, inspirational teachers, and is a special place for students to learn and grow. As one of the largest sixth forms in Nor th Her tfordshire, we believe we offer a fantastic environment for our Year 12 and 13 students
Our Sixth Form Open Evening on the 23rd October will allow Year 11 students and parents/careers to see the rich oppor tunities offered by our Sixth Form: the huge range of academic courses available, the wider curriculum on offer, and the highly engaged student body By meeting current students and staff, we want to demonstrate that being a member of our Sixth Form provides students with a working environment where they will be challenged, suppor ted and developed by a team of professionals who are committed to students achieving beyond their potential This is an environment where we work together to ensure that students leave with confidence and enthusiasm as well as outstanding academic achievements Prospective students can book tickets for the evening via the school’s dedicated Sixth Form website (sixthform kts school) which also has details of the courses offered, entr y requirements, and the admission process.
Mr E Hutchings - Headteacher Knights Templar
Etonbur y Academy
‘A welcoming & nur turing place to learn’ Year 5 through to Sixth Form!
Etonbur y Academy is an extended secondar y school where ever y child can shine Our pupils are confident, love learning and flourish Here at Etonbur y we are dedicated to delivering excellence in education Our staff are dedicated professionals who care and nur ture well rounded, confident and responsible young people of whom we can all be proud. In par tnerships with families and the community, our goal is to create relevant learning oppor tunities for pupilsboth inside and outside the classroom.
We do this by providing a welcoming, happy, safe and suppor tive environment in which ever yone is equal and all achievements are celebrated.
Our values form par t of ever yday culture at school.
The ETA Way!
E ver yone is respectful
T ogether we care
A lways aim higher!
Our proven track record gives you ever y good reason to consider Etonbur y Academy as the right school for your child
Come and see for yourself, at one of our open evenings, or alternatively please contact the main reception on 01462 730391 or etaoffice@bestacademies org uk to book a personal tour of the school
We look for ward to welcoming you to Etonbur y Academy Joanne Young - Etonbur y Academy Prinicpal.
Knights Templar School thrives on it’s strong sense of community
St Francis' College is a leading independent school, in Her tfordshire, offering an all- through education for students from 3 months to 18 years on one campus We combine academic excellence with a warm, inclusive community that nur tures ever y student's potential Our extensive facilities include a 330- seat theatre, an indoor heated pool, fitness suite, science labs, a chapel, and a dedicated Sixth Form Centre, all set within seven spacious acres This, combined with a suppor tive environment, promotes both academic achievement and personal well-being
As an all-girls' day and boarding school, we encourage students to lead, express themselves, and pursue their ambitions with confidence Our bespoke Curriculum 24 equips students for a rapidly evolving world shaped by AI and global innovation With high academic standards and a focus on critical thinking, creativity, adaptability, and collaboration, students are empowered to explore, grow, and thrive. Guided by our DREAMS values Determination, Resilience, Empowerment, Appreciation, Motivation, and Security and our "Dream, Dare, Achieve" philosophy, character development is central to life at St. Francis'. Diversity and inclusion are at the hear t of our ethos.
For more information, visit our website.
Welcome to Pix Brook Academy
As Principal, it's my privilege to introduce you to Pix Brook Academy, a co-educational extended secondar y school passionately dedicated to nur turing a vibrant and aspirational learning community We look for ward to you visiting us on Thursday 16th October, where we can provide you with a clear insight into what makes our academy a truly special place
Our mission is to educate the socially responsible citizens of the future This mission is built upon our five Pix Brook values – Positive, Prepared, Polite, Proud, and Perseverant These values, alongside our tagline, Owning Our Actions, Shaping Our Future, guide ever y decision and action within our academy, ensuring ever y student focuses on enhancing their life chances Our dedicated staff deliver the highest teaching standards, nur turing enquiring minds and inspiring ever y student to pursue their dreams We believe in a collaborative par tnership with our parental community, ensuring students flourish and enjoy their journey as par t of our wider family.
The best way to experience our school is to visit us in person and we hope to see you soon.
Charlotte Lineham - Pix Brook Academy Principal.
OPEN EVENING
THURSDAY 16TH OCTOBER 2025 3:45 - 7:45PM
Unlocking Potential at Kip McGrath Letchwor th
Located at the bottom of Station Road, Kip McGrath Letchwor th has been providing academic suppor t for local families for over a decade With a team of fully qualified teachers, the Centre has helped more than 1,000 children aged 6 to 16 improve their skills in English and maths, both on- site and online
Ever y student begins their journey with a free, no-obligation assessment designed to identify gaps in knowledge, boost confidence, and ensure each child is appropriately challenged This insight allows the team to create a personalised programme tailored to meet the individual needs of the student
Weekly 60-minute sessions focus on either maths or English, using Kip McGrath’s structured curriculum materials. Lessons are delivered through a state -of- thear t learning platform that suppor ts clear, focused progression.
The centre also offers dedicated preparation for SATs and GCSEs, ensuring students are ready to face key academic milestones with confidence
At Kip McGrath Letchwor th, the aim is more than just academic improvement it’s about helping children realise their full potential, building self-esteem, and fostering a lifelong love of learning The impact extends beyond the classroom, making a meaningful difference in each student’s life
Kip McGrath Letchwor th Centre 56a Station Road, Letchwor th Letchwor th, SG6 3BE
Welcome to Fearnhill School, where we pride ourselves on being a small, happy community – the Fearnhill Family. By creating a suppor tive and nur turing environment, we help our students to achieve their full potential.
High quality teaching is our priority in ever y lesson, and we are proud to have knowledgeable teachers who are dedicated to helping our students succeed The school is judged to be ‘Good’ in all categories by Ofsted Obtaining excellent qualifications is fundamental to Sixth Form life, but at Fearnhill this is balanced with the aim of developing essential personal qualities Our students are involved in spor t and per forming ar ts, as well as giving back to our school and local community, which equips them with leadership skills needed for the future
In joining us, you will become par t of our Fearnhill Family, in which ever yone settles quickly and where there is a shared desire to succeed, and to help and suppor t others.
I look for ward to welcoming you to our Sixth Form Open Evening Mr Thomas Marlow
Assistant Headteacher - Head of Sixth Form
Fearnhill School providing a suppor tive enviroment, helping students to achieve their full potential
Welcome to Nor th Her tfordshire College
With the help of exper t tutors, industr y- standard facilities, and curriculums designed alongside your future employers, Nor th Her tfordshire College offers a range of post-GCSE options to help you star t your career Our mock hospital ward, student-run restaurant and salon, and mock nurser y classroom are just a few examples of our continued investment in the NHC student experience Learning in these industr y- standard spaces means you can gain confidence operating in your future work environment, and experience using sector- specific equipment
Both our Stevenage and Hitchin campuses are nearby key transpor t links, making these facilities easily accessible In Februar y 2025, we launched our newest learning environment with the help of Alistair Strathern MP for Hitchin Based at our Hitchin campus, Pur well Studios is a state -of- the -ar t film, TV and VFX studio equipped with industr y- standard cameras, green screens, audio and lighting equipment At Nor th Her tfordshire College, we deliver full- time courses for 16+ school leavers, par t- time adult professional and leisure courses, apprenticeships, and Ofsted-rated Outstanding Suppor ted Studies programmes to equip you with the specific skills needed by employers. Our most recent Ofsted inspection graded us Good with Outstanding features. visit www.nhc.ac.uk
Apprenticeships
Art & Design
Beauty Therapy
Business
Computing, Networking & Design
Concept Art for Games
Construction & Trades
Content Creation
Digital Illustration & Animation
Education & Early Years
Fashion
Forensic & Criminal
Investigation
Hairdressing & Barbering
Health & Social Care
Hospitality & Catering
Interior Design & Architecture
Motor Vehicle
Protective Services
Laboratory Sciences
Sports Coaching
Exercise Science
Personal Training
Travel & Tourism
TV, Film & VFX
OPEN EVENTS
Explore course options for after GCSEs. Join our mailing list to stay in the know.
https:// www nhc ac uk/open-events
At Pippin, children thrive in a warm, welcoming, and stimulating environment where learning through play is at the hear t of ever y thing we do.
Our rich and varied curriculum provides a strong foundation, helping each child reach their full potential. We offer pre - school education for children aged 2–5 years, encouraging curiosity, creativity, and confidence in a nur turing setting To suppor t busy families, we also provide breakfast and afterschool care for children attending both Pre - school and Roecroft Lower School Ever y day is filled with activities designed to promote physical, social, and nutritional development Children enjoy regular music and movement sessions, action songs, yoga, and plenty of outdoor play, keeping them active, happy, and engaged Join us, and watch your child flourish through play, exploration, and joyful learning!
Children learning through play and exploration
Pippin Pre -School
September is often a time of new beginnings New schools, new, teachers, new clothes, new jobs and new friends For many this comes after a summer break, for others there may still be a holiday to come
Whatever comes next may be exciting, or challenging and even daunting, as we take up all that is new. Christians believe that God is with us all the time, so that we can talk to him in payer and share our innermost thoughts..we are never alone. At St. Peter ’s Church we love to welcome ever yone to our ser vices and events and look for ward to meeting new people.If you are star ting a “new” life here in Arlesey, we welcome you Take some time to come and visit our historic church, it is open ever y day from 9am-5pm ever yday There are newsletters available with all the events and ser vices which you can take away If you enjoyed our lovely Strawberr y Cream Tea in the summer, or maybe you missed it!!
News from St Peter ’s Church
Then why not book a place, or just come on the day, for our Autumn
Afternoon Cream Tea on Saturday 4th
October 3-5pm in St Peter ’s Church £6 per person, but if you want to add a little zest to your afternoon, for £2 you can add a glass of Prosecco
To book, please contact Tanya on 07833 254553
Advance notice Our Har vest Festival
Ser vice will be held on Sunday 5th October at 9 30am We will be suppor ting the Need Project, so if you would like to bring gifts of tinned foods they will be gratefully received.
All are welcome to ser vices at St. Peter ’s in September
7th September
9.30am Holy Communion
14th September
All Age Worship 10am
21st September 9.30am Holy Communion
28th September 9 30am Holy Communion
Weekdays in September
Coffee Morning Tuesday10 30am
Morning Prayer Wednesday 9 15am
Afternoon Tea
Wednesday 3rd September
Helen Bardell Churchwarden
To contact Rev Jenna Dearden please use the following:
Email: revjenna@gmail.com
Mobile 07708 666612
Church Landline 01462 731227
We look for ward to welcoming you to our church ver y soon.
Down Memory Lane
Arlesey Timeline 1920 - 1971
1920: Arlesey's first cinema opened in Hospital Road, it was named the Victor y and had a chequered career with several name changes. It was known as the Premier in the 1930s and the Cosy Cinema in the 1950s. It closed several times before the final closure in June 1962.
1927: Authority received from the Ministr y of Health to change the Asylum's name to The Three Counties Hospital.
1929: Arlesey Women's Institute Hall officially opened in May. During the Second World War it was taken over by the army for billeting troops
1933: Arlesey and Shefford Road Station renamed Arlesey and Henlow
Station
1955: Etonbur y School opened on the 18th April as a county secondar y school, the first head teacher was Mr R N Alexander
1959: The Arlesey & Henlow and Three Counties Stations were closed for passenger traffic on the 5th Januar y 1959 and for goods traffic on the 28th
November 1960
1960: Three Counties Hospital renamed Fair field Hospital
1967: Biggs & Wall, engineering firm move to Arlesey, on a four acre site in Hitchin Road (pictured above - now known as Hampden House )
1971: Community Centre opened with a village hall, librar y, youth club and medical centre
Useful Telephone Numbers
Citizen’s Advice Bureau
01525 402742
01525 841217
Trading Standards Advice Line 0300 300 8136
Churches
St Peter ’s Church, 01462 731227
Arlesey Methodist Church
Rev'd Emmanuel Onabanjo
07464 881751
Fair field Community Church 07376 740410
Kings Baptist Church 01462 730521
Salvation Army Stotfold Corps 01462 731072
Council
Arlesey Town Council Town Council Office
Arlesey Community Centre, High Street, Arlesey, Beds
SG15 6SN Phone: 01462 733722
Email: clerk@arlesey-tc gov uk
Central Bedfordshire Council, Prior y House, Chicksands, Shefford SG17 5TQ 0300 300 8000
Email customers@centralbedfordshire gov.uk
Web www.centralbedfordshire.gov uk
Waste Collection / Recycling / Dog Warden / Fly tipping / Grass Cutting / Street Cleaning / Abandoned Vehicles 0300 300 8631 or 0300 300 8632
Doctor
Arlesey Medical Centre
www arleseymedicalcentre nhs uk
01462 732144
Larksfield Surger y Stotfold: 01462 732200
Out of Hours Ser vice 111
Emergencies
Electricity Emergencies
Gas Emergencies
Helplines
Alcoholics Anonymous
0800 7 838 838
0800 111999
01438 747475
Childline 0800 1111
National Menengitis Trust
0845 6000800
Samaritans 08457 909090
NSPCC 0800 800 5000
Housing
First Garden City Homes 01462 683307
Pioneer House, Nor ton Way South, Letchwor th Garden City, Her ts, SG6 1NY Grand Union Housing - all enquiries 0300 123 5544
Miscellaneous
Arlesey Community Larder
07427 650080. Arlesey Good Neighbours 01462 732210
ACORN - Arlesey Conser vation For Nature
Mick Jackson 07970 734416 ( Treasurer)
arlesey acorn@gmail com
Beds Rural Communities Charity 01234 838771
Bir ths, Deaths & Marriages 0300 300 8089
Police
Beds Police (Crime repor ting)
01234 841212
Crimestoppers 0800 555111
Hospitals
Bedford Hospital 01234 355122
Lister Hospital 01438 314333
NHS Direct 0845 464700 300 8068
Librar y Arlesey Resource Centre & Librar y 01462 731469
Stotfold Librar y 0300 300 8068
Pubs
The White Horse 01462 621118
The Old Oak 01462 612536
The True Britton 07494 563496
Schools & Nurseries
Etonbur y Academy 01462 730391
Pix Brook Academy 01462 416243
Gothic Mede Lower School 01462 732002
BEST Nurser y (Arlesey) 01462 732168
Arlesey Preschool @ WI Hall 07815 293670
Children’s Centre
Stotfold and District Children's Centre 01462 730623
Transpor t
Trains (National Enquiries) 08457 484950
Whitbread Wanderbus 0300 123 3023
Boxall Taxis 01462 433 333
Greenacre Transfers
Airpor ts & Chauffeur Ser vices 07555 70 78 48 www.greenacretransfers.co.uk
Business Directory
ACORN Arlesey Conser vation For Nature
AD Garden Rooms
Adams Osteopathy
A JB Fencing
Alfie’s Barbers
All Wrapped Up - Balloons and Florist
Andy Leonard Painter & Decorator
Arlesey Community Larder
Arlesey Walking Group
Arlesey Pharmacy
07970 734416
01438 313765
07498 670345
07837 791365
01462 658449
07886 569134
07889 903283
07427 650080
01462 638286
01462 731200
Arlesey Social Club 01462 731361
Ask Phil - Windows, Driveways, Garden Rooms 01462 545729
Aquarius Garden Design 01462 731292
Bandits Pet Shop
Barn Hair Studio
Bal & Co Motor Care
Bews Electrical
Big Minibus Hire
BK Electrical / Brian Kelly
BSH Glazing ( Windows & Doors)
Bugs ‘n’ Things Pest Control
Builders - SJ Brock
Carpentr y by Ray
Carpet Cleaning - ACCS Ltd
Carpet Cleaning - The Cleaning Hub
Carpets & Flooring - Paul Faulkner
Cascade Water Ser vices
Catsitter - Claire
Computer Repairs -
The Cooker Buddy Oven Cleaning
Crown Sweeps
Chris Webster, Stotfold
07787 502906
01462 835611
01462 731500
01462 834488
07817 766997
07817545314
01462 730884
01462 735999
01462 231257
01462 732814
01462 629302
07990 297297
01462 731674
07887 531034
07984 344997
0777 7113107
01462 810065
07838 916915
01462 834108 (Correspondent for The Comet )
Darren Peters Proper ty Maintenance
Dennison’s - House & Garden Clearance
Do It All Dan
Electrician - Terr y C Seymour
Fair field Bowls Club
Fencing (A JB)
Finesse Interiors
First Step Estate Agents
Foot Health Professional - Vicki Eagles
01462 733322
07522 354141
07908 674890
01462 236559
07811 738599
07837 791365
01462 896046
01462 659730
07812 399659
Foot Pro Podiatr y 07377 536685
FullFlow Pressure Washing/Cleaning
Gifford Dance Academy
Graham Smith Brickwork & Paving
Greenacre Transfers Airpor ts & Chauffeur Ser vices
www greenacretransfers co uk
Guides - Stotfold Guide Association
Henlow Vets
House of Fitness Pole fitness
Hypnotherapy - Pathway Hypnotherapy Rooms
James’s Carpentr y & Handyman Ser vice
Jar vis Footcare
Locksmith Ser vices
07306 085207
07585 221513
01462 731829
07555 707848
01462 235273
01462 416416
07840 268099
07497157531
01462 234292
07816 329363
01462 290226
New Kitchens
812826 Nor th Her ts Road Runners 01462 639215
Orange Henn Travel 01707 913761
Oven Clean & Repair Ser vices 07878 444559
Painter/Decorator - Paul A Robinson 07761 751634 01462 232642
Paul Eley Tiling 07818 000508
Paws & Claws Pet Grooming 07913 005268
Piano Lessons - Christine Walker
Saunders Garage 01462 730222
SHA Care Ser vices 0333 0062644
Sheldon Electricals 01767 448188
Shel's Shabby Chic, Vintage painted furniture & workshops 01462 234228
Solicitors - HR J Foreman Laws 01462 458711
Tally Bookkeeping 01462 506144
The Arlesey News Magazine 01462 731986
The Rooms Hair and Beauty 01462 835538
The Rooms Holistic and Beauty Academy 07946 521266
Warrens Windows 01462 261401
Waste Removal (Josas Waste) 07739 488472
Windows - Repairs & Installations (J Garside) 07951 473505
Window Cleaning - ACCS Ltd 01462 629302
