Shrivenham Station
SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
Community News
WINTER 2023
WINTER 2023
Academy Quilters
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JCC
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BE PART OF THE HEART MAKE PROTECTING YOUR RAF FAMILY YOUR LASTING LEGACY The moment you chose to serve in the Royal Air Force, you became part of something much bigger. A family like no other – for over 100 years we have been ready to protect those we cherish most. Especially, one another. After looking after your loved ones, would you consider leaving a gift in your Will to the RAF Benevolent Fund? To be part of the heart of the RAF Family by giving its people the support they need, when they need it. Everything from confidential counselling to mobility aids as well as support for injuries, illness and bereavement.
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SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
Station Welfare Team... Maj Anthony Bolton Station Welfare Officer 01793 785786 e: Anthony.bolton@ da.mod.uk Duty Mobile: 07825 674635 WO1 Mick Mayes Station Welfare Warrant Officer 01793 314791 e: michael.mayes656 @mod.gov.uk or: michael.mayes@ da.mod.uk Duty Mobile: 07825 674635
Mrs Rebecca Dunne Families & Welfare Specialist Coordinator 01793 780793 e: Rebecca.dunne@ da.mod.uk
Ms Donna Gardner Families & Welfare Lead Administrator 01793 780793 e: Donna.gardner@ da.mod.uk
Anthony.bolton@da.mod.uk 01793 785786 Shrivenham Station Welfare Officer Jubilee Community Centre Defence Academy of the United Kingdom Shrivenham SN6 8LA Please Remember Items for inclusion in the Winter edition may be submitted at any time but must be received by 30th January 2024 for publication at the end of the month.
Shrivenham Station Community News
WHAT'S IN THIS ISSUE... Welcome to the Winter Edition of the Shrivenham Community News. It seems not at all long ago that I wrote the last Winter Edition foreword for a number of reasons, the main one being the apparent lack of a proper (any?!) summer to punctuate the year. However the sudden abundance of pumpkins, and the requirement to carve them into intricate, scary faces for my daughters (self portrait?), mean that we are indeed slipping from autumn to winter. Another reason for the quick turnaround is that it has also been a particularly busy year, with competing demands for military, civil servant and contracted staff alike, not made easier by numerous challenges posed not least with extremes of weather. It should be noted that this December is the first anniversary of the creation of the Watchfield and Shrivenham Community larder, a fantastic facility for the local population that has gone from strength to strength since its inauguration. Interestingly, it is as much for the opportunity for a cup of tea and a chat as for the provisions that has made it as popular as it has been, and I commend all those many volunteers who have all played a greater or lesser part in keeping it going. In the last month we have also held another Community Liaison Meeting, engaging with key members of the local community including the respective Parish Council leaders: this remains an essential opportunity for engagement and exchanges of ideas for improvement and this month’s was no exception. We also engaged closely with the Vale of White Horse District Council in lending our assistance to the
Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy, proudly assisting in the provision of housing for those that have worked in support of United Kingdom operations in Afghanistan, in meaningful and exposed roles. As mentioned in previous editions, we have also been progressing with our major build programmes; we will continue to work to minimise local impact whilst making essential improvements to Shrivenham Station infrastructure. Finally, I would like to ask you all to keep safe as the nights draw in and the weather deteriorates (further!), and continue to look after yourselves and eachother. As we approach the end of the year, thank you again to all those who have supported the Defence Academy and Shrivenham Station over the last 12 months, it is very much appreciated.
CO Wg Cdr Gavin Thomas RAF
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WINTER 2023
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THE JUBILEE COMMUNITY CENTRE SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
Shrivenham Station Welfare House Shrivenham Station has 4 two-bedroom Welfare (Contact) Houses located on the Watchfield Estate on Folly Crescent (Post Code SN6 8SH). The houses can be used by Shrivenham Station PS and all Students, as a lower priority; external Military ID Card holders, Civil Servants and Contractors with a DMR Pass.
These houses are controlled by Shrivenham Station Welfare Officer. The Welfare Houses are not to be used as permanent accommodation and will only be booked for short term stays. The maximum length of occupation is 14 nights in any 28 night period. In very exceptional circumstances the Welfare Houses may be allocated for longer.
Bookings will be prioritised allocation priority as follows: A Emergency Welfare Cases.
B Children’s visits for divorced/separated personnel. C Visits by Wives/Husbands/Partners/Children to
unaccompanied PS and Students on long courses.
D Visits to Students on short or non-residential courses. E
Other family visits.
F
Transit Accommodation during transition between assignments.
The cost of hiring the Welfare Houses is as follows:
The Jubilee Community Centre The Jubilee Community Centre provides facilities for Service Personnel and their families from both the United Kingdom and Overseas together with all other Station Personnel.
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he Jubilee Centre is the home of the Station Welfare Officer, Welfare Warrant Officer, two Serco Staff members. We also have our very own Army Welfare Service - Community Development Worker Jayne Russell located within the centre, wealth of knowledge and can also be sure to stop by and say ‘hello’. provide details regarding local The JCC has two ‘soft play’ areas for young children (under 1metre facilities and amenities. in height and crawlers) whilst parents can enjoy refreshments from the Coffee Shop which is run by ESS. The idea behind the centre is to give families (and of course staff and students) a place to meet old and new friends and families of different nationalities in a friendly and personal environment. Several activities are hosted in the JCC, including a few voluntary led events, coffee mornings, play sessions and more. We are also fortunate to be visited regularly by supporting agencies; DAFFYs, Home Start, Pinnacle, Vivo and Serco to name a few. All activities and events are well advertised and are held for the benefit of the families of Shrivenham Station. Full details of all activities and other events of interest can be found on the JCC notice boards and TV. The JCC is available for private functions (children’s parties a speciality) for a small hire charge to Defence Academy Pass Holders. The JCC is located just outside the main entrance to the Station on Faringdon Road, the staff have a
The JCC is open 0730 - 1600hrs Monday to Thursday and 0730 1200hrs Friday. The Soft Play Areas are open 0830 - 1515hrs Monday to Thursday and 0830 1200hrs Friday. If you have ideas or are looking to start an activity, please contact the Families and Welfare Team on 01793 780793
We look forward to meeting you soon!
A, B, and C: £12.00 per night. D, E, and F: £25.00 per night.
For more information contact the Welfare Team on 01793 780793. 4
WINTER 2023
SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
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SCOUTS 1ST WATCHFIELD & SHRIVENHAM SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
1st Watchfield & Shrivenham Cubs Visit Red Watch Cub Scouts and volunteers from 1st Watchfield & Shrivenham Scout Group had an educational and fun visit to Stratton St Margaret Fire Station in October.
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n an exciting conclusion to their ‘Fire Safety’ badge, each of our Cub Packs was treated to a fantastic evening at Stratton St Margaret Fire Station, where they learned about the role
of a firefighter and the specialist equipment they use. In what proved to be very much ‘handson’ experiences, Cubs got try on some of the personal protective equipment used by firefighters,
get behind the wheel of a fire engine, and even use the firehose! A nine-year-old Cub Scout said, “The fireman were really nice. They told us about all the
important things they do to help other people, and how we can help, too. I enjoyed getting dressed up and using the hose was definitely the best bit!” Helen Wright, the Group Scout Leader, said, “This is a fun way of helping young people to learn about fire safety, and how they can help look after themselves, their families, and friends. It builds on earlier sessions in which the Cubs have learned about the importance of fire drills, escape plans, smoke and heat detectors, causes of fire, and being safe around a campfire, and how to behave around a bonfire and fireworks. These really are ‘Skills for Life’. Of course, the visit to the fire station is the absolute highlight of it all, and we’re really grateful to Red Watch for looking after our Cub Packs so well.” The 1st Watchfield & Shrivenham Scout Group is a thriving and active Group based at the Defence Academy. It welcomes children from military families and the local villages and comprises over 100 children (36 Beavers aged 6-8 years; 48 Cubs aged 8-10.5 years, and 30 Scouts aged 10.5-14 years). Each Section runs a weekly meeting with fun, exciting, and safe indoor and outdoor Scouting activities in and around the Defence Academy and local community. All this is enabled by our adult volunteers and Explorer Young Leaders (aged 14-18 years) and a support base including Trustees and Committee Members.
If you’d like to get involved, email Helen on: helenwright@ kascouts.org.uk. 6
WINTER 2023
SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
Defence Academy gives MPs and Peers insight into military life Major General Andrew Roe has thanked personnel at the Defence Academy for the successful delivery of this year’s Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme (AFPS) visit.
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he annual visit gives Peers and Members of Parliament (MPs) the opportunity to gain insight into life in the Armed Forces, allowing them to develop deeper understandings of current Defence and military issues. Major General Roe said: “…feedback from the parliamentarians who attended has once again confirmed that the Peers and MPs have left us with a raft of positive memories from their time at the Defence Academy. “For the majority of the attendees this two day ‘introduction’ held at Shrivenham is their first real exposure to the MOD and the Armed Forces, and these
WINTER 2023
parliamentarians are now much better informed to contribute during Defence and security debates in the House of Lords and the House of Commons.” The programme included talks from senior leaders and subject matter experts, a tour of the Defence College for Military Capability Integration, an introduction to Defence Cyber and the opportunity to get hands-on experience of wargaming and small arms on the live firing range. Based at Shrivenham, the Defence Academy of the United Kingdom provides higher education for personnel in the British Armed forces, Civil Service, other government departments and international service personnel.
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FORCES FAMILIES AWARDS SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
Celebrating Forces Families Awards Do you know of a UK military family member who has done something extraordinary to support the Armed Forces Community? The Celebrating Forces Families awards are back for their third year in April 2024 and they are going to be bigger and better than ever with a brand-new venue and two new awards! For the last 2 years the awards have highlighted the invaluable contributions and unwavering support that military families give to the whole armed forces community. The awards night has the full support of the Ministry of Defence, and each year they send senior military representatives from each of the services. The Awards Ceremony has previously been held at the Victory Services Club, but with growing popularity we have had to move to a larger venue. The 2024 Awards Ceremony will be held at the Leonardo Royal Hotel, London City. A launch event was recently held at Barclays world headquarters in London and was hosted by Military Husband & RAF Reservist Chris Keen and Forces News journalist Sian Grzeszczyk. The nominations gateway was officially opened by Air Commodore Wendy Rothery and will remain open until 15th December. Air Commodore Wendy Rothery said: “I am delighted to join the Celebrating Forces Families Team to formally open the nominations for the 2024 Awards. Our families are true unsung heroes who routinely go above and beyond to support the entire Armed Forces Community; they fully deserve the formal recognition that these awards bring. On behalf of Defence, thank you!”
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Individuals and organisations can put forward their nominations for these prestigious awards by heading to the Celebrating Forces Families website.
Vice Admiral Phil Hally, Chief of Defence People, said: “Events like these are what the ‘living in our shoes’ report terms small acts of kindness and they are important as while they increase resilience You can vote in categories such as and bolster self-sufficiency the Inspirational Family Member of the most important thing is that Year, the Young People’s Award, they help to celebrate just how Overcoming Adversity and Military important our families are.” Family Charity. Barclays is the headline sponsor Members of the Ministry of for the 2024 Celebrating Forces Defence Partner Employment Families Awards and have Working Group (the organisers joined forces with several other of the Celebrating Forces companies to support the 2024 Families Awards) saw a need for a ceremony. dedicated platform to exclusively celebrate the achievements of These include Mott MacDonald, serving military families. The Defence Discount Services, awards then became a reality in 2022. There are many events and awards evenings that happen across the UK to celebrate the achievements and sacrifices made by our serving personnel but until now there was nothing that focused purely on the family members.
Centrica, BFBS and Forces Employment Charity. Kevin Gartside, Head of Military & Veterans Outreach at Barclay said: “Barclays is delighted to continue its support of the Celebrating Forces Families Awards. These awards highlight the amazing achievements of the broader military community, giving this vital support network its own time to shine. These awards put spouses, partners and military children in the spotlight and give them the recognition they deserve. The awards very much align with the importance that the bank puts on supporting our communities”.
There are still a few sponsorship packages remaining for organisations who want to become a part of the 2024 event. Those interested are encouraged to speak to a member of the event team or visit the website or further information – www.celebratingforcesfamilies.co.uk
WINTER 2023
COMMUNITY NEWS
SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
Stevenson Station Gym/Heather Stanning Sports Hall
Record breaking Stef flies the flag for Team GB Congratulations to Stef Bazylkiewicz from International Group on her recently completed outdoor athletics season. Despite suffering a broken collar bone at the start of the season after hitting a hurdle in training, combined events specialist Stef recovered to pick up five medals at last month’s British Masters Athletics Championships. She then went on to represented Great Britain at the European Masters Athletics Championships in Pescara, Italy. Competing in the heptathlon, (100 metre hurdles, high jump, shot putt, 200 metre sprint, long jump, javelin and 800 metres) Stef finished fifth with an overall points personal best (PB) as well as PBs in the high jump and javelin. In the throws pentathlon, (hammer, shot, discus, javelin, and weight throw) Stef also claimed
an overall points PB as well as personal bests in the discus and weight throw to finish 6th overall. She then followed this up with an overall bronze and age group gold at a speed heptathlon event in Basingstoke, completing all first six events within 42 minutes, before taking to the track for the 800 metres final event. Stef, who currently training with former Olympian Dwayne Chambers, now ranks second in the national masters heptathlon rankings, third for indoor pentathlon, and 10th for throws pentathlon, will next be focusing on the European Indoor Championships taking place in Torun, Poland - a city coincidentally twinned with Swindon!
The Stevenson station gym has recently undergone improvements with the installation of a substantial amount of new Technogym equipment. The gym is open from 0600 -0900 daily including weekends, and is located opposite the fields where the dog training area is located approx. 100m from the Grass roots café. The Heather Stanning Sports Hall is situated next to Barrington library. The main purpose of the sports hall is for group classes/ military fitness tests and sports bookings however there is another small area at the near end of the hall which can be used for individual training and has a limited amount of equipment for use. Pete and the gym team have continued to be busy providing classes/fitness testing and individual fitness guidance for all station personnel. The latest addition to our repertoire is yoga which seems to be popular mainly with faculty’s booking bespoke sessions for courses – if any faculty wishes to have a bespoke yoga session provided please contact the Station gym/sports hall manager Pete Freeman to arrange a suitable time – Pete can visit faculties to provide this and all that is required is one large empty room.
The station gym has a information page on the AN2 DIAS which includes all class timings for the lunchtime sessions which are normally attended by the general population on station – the eligibility for use of the station gym facilities is as follows: • All Station Military/ MOD personnel and dependants over the age of 16. • SERCO/ESS/Cranfield staff only - not dependants. • Permanent contractors – not dependants. All civilian users must obtain their own personal accident and 3rd party liability insurance and must also pay £36.50 annually into station funding (not Incl MOD dependants) If a civilian user is a Mess member/accommodated on station or already a member of an AU sports club they already contribute to station funding.
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SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
Introducing your Service Pupil Community Link Workers Hello, we are Mandy and Suzie, the newly appointed Service Pupil Community Link Workers. Through Armed Forces Covenant funding, we have been appointed by the Faringdon Learning Trust (FLT) to support service pupils and their families. The schools that currently come under the FLT are Ashbury & Compton Beauchamp CE Primary, Buckland CE Primary, Faringdon Community College, Folly View Primary, John Blandy Primary, Longcot & Fernham CE Primary, Shrivenham CE Primary, The Elms Primary, and Watchfield Primary. We are both parents of service children and appreciate the challenges that some service families may face when moving
into a new area with school aged children. Our aim is to provide you with direct pastoral and welfare support should you need it. We are delighted to have been given the opportunity to be able to assist you in navigating life as a service parent. We will be working alongside military bases and the trust schools to unite our service families and support military pupils to thrive, emotionally, socially and academically. We look forward to meeting you in the coming months and if we can be of any assistance, please reach out. Suzie Davies and Mandy Milburn
skdavies@faringdonlearningtrust.org mjmilburn@faringdonlearningtrust.org
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SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
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MWC
Defence Academy Military Wives Choir
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ince regrouping in September, preparations have been gathering momentum as we have rehearsed for one of our busiest periods in the choir calendar: Remembrance and Christmas. With three Services of Remembrance throughout November at Lydiard Park, Swindon, The Defence Academy, Shrivenham, and St Thomas Church, Watchfield, we hope that you managed to attend at least one of the very moving services. As November gives way to December, we now look forward to our Christmas concert season and we are very excited to announce that we will be singing as guest performers in a special concert with ‘The Wessex’ Choir. The Wessex is a male voice choir and is one of the UK’s top amateur male choirs. So why not join us at Christ Church, Swindon on Friday 8 December at 1930hrs for a heartwarming evening of joyous carols and beautiful music.
If you want to try something new, then maybe choir is for you. Friendship and support and a sense of belonging are just some of the underpinning elements to choir, but also the wealth of opportunities and events that arise.
Why not give us a try? As the blank diary pages Come with your friends and family start to fill up for this to experience the true spirit of academic year, there Christmas through the power will be no end to the of song. This promises to be an music, the challenges, the unforgettable evening filled with socials, the laughs and the warmth, love and the joy of the opportunities. holiday season.
The MWC is for spouses and partners of military personnel, servicewomen and support staff of the Defence Academy and the surrounding area. All abilities are welcome! No auditions or previous experience is required. Check us out on our social media accounts: Facebook: Defence Academy Military Wives Choir Twitter: @DefenceAcad_MWC Instagram: da_military_wives_choir Contact us at: defenceacademy@militarywiveschoirs.org The DAMWC is currently 25+ members strong and we are growing! We are a lively group and meet on Monday between 1030-1200hrs at the Jubilee Community Centre and on Thursdays between 1930-2130hrs at St. Alban’s Church. 12
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MWC
Join us at Christ Church, Swindon on Friday 8 December at 1930hrs for a heart-warming evening of joyous carols and beautiful music. Tickets are available at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/Wessex-male-choir
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SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
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SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
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STATION CHAPLAINCY
Padre Robert Church... It is a great pleasure to be writing for the first time as Station Padre. Though I have recently arrived here from the wilds of Scotland, I grew up in Cirencester, trained for the priesthood in Oxford, and have my home in the vale of Pewsey – so it is lovely to be back amongst familiar places.
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t’s been lovely to get to know so many new people, and I look forward to meeting many more of you in the months to come. Please do drop in to Building 43 when you are passing; you can be assured of decent coffee and comfy armchairs. As a naval chaplain I carry no rank, and by tradition am equal to whoever I am speaking with. I sit outside command and medical structures, and can offer confidential support to anyone. My concern is for you as a person, not as a service person or a colleague. In the Royal Navy we sum up our role by calling ourself the ‘friend and advisor to all on
board’, regardless of any religious affiliation. At the time I’m writing the weather is getting darker and colder. The news and images from the Middle East are deeply distressing. War in Ukraine persists, and the cost of living causes worry in all our communities. Uncertainty is all around us. It’s easy to despair, to feel helpless, and to become fatigued by it all. There are no easy answers. As we approach Christmas I reflect that the heart of this midwinter celebration is ‘Emmanuel’, which means ‘God with us’. The story is well known from school nativity plays, God becomes
human by being born in a stable. Born amongst warring nations, instability and uncertainty, Christ enters into a broken world to be with us. It shows us that God holds all people to be hugely important, and he knows what it means to suffer with us. The Bible describes God coming to be with us by saying ‘the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.’ Even when the darkness seems overwhelming, let’s try to remember that. When we feel despair, lets seek out people to be with – just as God did. Be they family, friends, work colleagues, or people in need, giving them time
and attention helps us all. I pray that you and those you love find some light and joy this Christmas, and look forward to spending time with you in 2024.
The Station Chaplaincy Team are delighted to welcome you to the Defence Academy Station Church, St. Alban’s. All are welcome to join us for inclusive worship. You will always receive a warm welcome. Roman Catholic Mass 09:30-10:30 every Sunday Priests from Blackfriars conduct Mass for the Defence Academy Sunday Worship 11:00-12:00 every Sunday Services led by Padre Robert Join us for refreshments from 10:30-11:00 in the hall. Please get in touch to discuss Christening/ Baptism requests, marriage blessings/ renewals, first communions, and more.
Wednesday mornings 9:00 - 11:30 St Alban's Church Hall
St. Alban’s, Watchfield, Ironside Drive, SN6 8RL
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STATION CHAPLAINCY SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
WINTER 2023
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SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
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WINTER 2023
SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
R CHEAPE CUTS DO YOU OWN RENTED PROPERTY? DO YOU NEED HELP WITH THIS PART OF YOUR TAX RETURN? For the past 21 years I have helped numerous Service families to complete their Tax Returns. I live in Shrivenham which means I am able to meet new clients at short notice. I offer a fast and efficient service at reasonable rates. For further information, please contact: LOUISE SLATER BSc, FCMA on: Tel: 01793 783332 Email: louise@louiseslater.net
WINTER 2023
GREAT VALUE WINTER WARMERS!
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ACADEMY QUILTERS SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
Hello to the patchwork and quilting group at the Defence Academy Shrivenham. My grasp of your language may not be perfect so forgive me any odd/wrong wording. I want to say how much I can to value my time with Academy Quilters. I felt nurtured and cared for, listened to when I felt lonely or homesick and was so amazed at what I was able to learn to make. I had never used a sewing machine before so was a bit scared. That feeling very soon went away and I loved every minute of my time with Hedda. She was so very patient with me and my lack of her language. I ended up by being a very happy, much more confident wife who can now sew things for my family and my new baby. I have a skill now I can share with spouses, wherever we get posted in the future. I will be forever grateful for my time with The Academy Quilters, thank you.
The triangle formation, known to quilters as Flying geese, is a favourite with The Academy Quilters, representing the many journeys they take while being military spouses. Beautiful,colourful Batik fabrics look stunning against the deep charcoal coloured background.
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A pretty and practical patchwork and quilting project, carefully and thoughtfully constructed. Something to be proud off.
A lot of fun was had choosing and using these wonderful Batik fabrics to create this Coin quilt. A good example of keeping it simple and letting the fabrics sing.
Easy quilt blocks made using the partial seam method. Japanese fabrics sit alongside pre loved shirt fabrics to create a cosy quilt.
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ACADEMY QUILTERS SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS I am now quite pleased to be able to consider myself a quilter! That fact still surprises and thrills me. Nearly a year ago, my hubby informed me we were off to the UK. My initial reaction was” oh no, another upheaval and the usual finding school hassle”. I know,I know, I should have been pleased but …..having just finished a course of study and being lucky to be accept onto another( I am a bit of a perpetual student) I really did not relish the thought of 11 months without being able to use my brain. Let’s move forward in time and have a look at what became my saving grace……….we packed up, moved, got settled into a married quarter and then my happy discovery, a group called The Academy Quilters. Made contact, thinking it might just be a group of wives nattering but hoping it wasn’t……had the most lovely chat with the tutor and discovered it was a teaching group, oh happy yaay…….I can learn something. Oh gee, I so enjoyed myself, was encouraged to think, plan,
experiment and to me, quite importantly, just be me. I am so proud of what I achieved and feel the time spent with this lovely group was very well spent. I loved working quietly alongside other new quilters, we all learnt so much from the tutor and now I am back home again, I have skills I can pass onto other wives and have several quilts that will be passed down to other generations. I promised my tutor I would do her a write up for the group when home and settled again so I am glad of this chance to say a massive “thank you” for all the understanding, encouragement, support and cuppas of tea+biscuits I received while with The Academy Quilters, you really are quite a special group for us young wives. So to anyone located to UK Shrivenham, do not hesitate, go get yourself signed up with this group and see for yourselves why I had so much fun. Good luck to all the new quilters .
A very first and pretty project being carefully machine quilted.
Our precious fabric is very much easier to cut accurately when the ruler is held down with weights.
Christmas stocking being made the ‘quilt as you go’ method and discovering how useful a spoon can be for flattening the seam allowance.
Having basted all 3 layers together and done some lovely machine quilting, the next stage of binding the edges is being done. Top and bottom edges very neatly done, time now to start on the sides.
Animal drawings, Portraits, faces and much more I specialise in drawings using pen, graphite pencil and coloured pencils.
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SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
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GORDON’S SCHOOL www.gordons.school
YEARS 7, 9 AND 12 BOARDING PLACES AVAILABLE Students who attend the boarding school provision exceed their predicted outcomes and consistently reach, and further, their potential OFSTED BOARDING INSPECTION REPORT 2019
BESPOKE RESIDENTIAL 22 BOARDING HOUSE FOR YEAR 7 STUDENTS
BOARDING FROM UNDER £800 PER TERM WITH CEA
NON-SELECTIVE LOWER SCHOOL • PRIORITY WINTER 2023 PLACES FOR FORCES
SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
GORDON’S SCHOOL
Boarding schools have come a long way since the tales of cold showers, uncaring, strict staff and huge dormitories filled with rows of home sick children. These days the emphasis is on patience and guiding students as they navigate social interactions, mental health issues and meeting the high expectations of the school, all that while being away from home for the first time, starting in a new school and living with 30 other peers. In an increasingly uncertain world, boarding provides a balanced, consistent constant. Nowadays, boarding is often described as ‘one big sleepover’ by students, who regard it as very much a ‘home from home’: secure, friendly places where not only can they flourish academically, but also learn tolerance, resilience, discipline, independence - and make life-long friends in the process. Evenings and weekends are packed with activities, both external and in-house, and as well as large grounds and facilities, children can enjoy the company of perhaps hundreds of others every day and weekend. Gordon’s School, built over a century ago at the express wish of Queen Victoria, as the national monument to General Gordon, is listed as one of Britain’s outstanding schools by Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector. A non-selective, co-educational state day and boarding school, set in some 50 acres of Surrey parkland close to London, the School is in the top 5% of all schools in England and Wales for progress at A Level.
However, Gordon’s is so much more than its academic results. The School’s ethos is that high performance without good character is not true success. So it’s not just the classrooms where students excel. Successes are also achieved in drama; the arts; debating; public speaking; dance and sport and in the enviable record of Duke of Edinburgh Awards.
The Boarding House is run as an extension of their home – the kitchen door is always open and their children and dog running around. Saturday morning pancakes in their kitchen are a weekly treat! Students feel comfortable, safe and secure - it’s their term time home and their aim is to make them feel that way. While extra support may be provided in the classrooms to make up for any gaps in their education or to stretch and challenge the children, Mr and Mrs Cooper see their job as keeping the atmosphere in the boarding house positive, upbeat and fun, as well as helping their charges to become more independent and organised. All students are encouraged to ‘have a go’ at sport, whether for their House or School and the school provides every opportunity to progress in their chosen field through the extensive facilities and coaches, many of whom have played on the international arena. A new sports hub and additional all-weather pitch have been added to the Surrey site and the school partners Harlequins, providing a pathway for talented rugby players to achieve their potential both on and off the pitch. There are also partnerships with Superleague netball club Surrey Storm, Vanarama League Football Club Aldershot Town FC and the National Shooting Centre. As well as sport, there are over 128 co-curricular choices for students every week, from Brazilian Jujitsu to Robotics Club and every child experiences the thrill of outdoor pursuits through the Combined Cadet Force, a tri-service offering students training in the Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force services or through the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme.
Over 70 per cent of the boarders at Gordon’s are from Service or Diplomatic families, attracted to the school by its experience and expertise in looking after these children, who may have been uprooted from many schools and countries before their arrival. Boarding offers these children a constant, a place away from perhaps the worry of a parent on active service.
While the individual is celebrated, the whole School unites for parades. Since its inception, as a national memorial to General Gordon, students have marched and there has always been a Pipes and Drums band. Dressed in their Blues uniform, the students parade around eight times a year and the school is the only one permitted to march along Whitehall - an annual tradition in remembrance of General Gordon.
There are three main admission points – at 11 and 13 years old and for Sixth Form. Those coming into the school in Year 7 as residential boarders, are housed together for the first year, becoming part of the extended Woolwich family, headed by Houseparents Sam and Daisy Cooper.
The real judgement of Gordon’s is the students. Visitors are struck by the friendliness, discipline and vibrancy throughout the school and by the family atmosphere, exemplified by the special rapport between staff and students.
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Whichever way you choose to say it, wishing family and friends a happy and peaceful Christmas is important to us. This Christmas, the Defence Academy would love to hear from its international families about any festive traditions you may be bringing with you from ‘home’ to celebrate this year. Are there any special dishes you serve, traditions you take part in, stories you tell or decorations you put up? Why not share some of these with the rest of the Defence Academy community? The Station Communications (Comms) Team would love to learn more about how you celebrate Christmas. You can contact them directly via DEFAC-Comms@mod.gov.uk
Calling ALL Male Spouses & Partners!
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SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
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Great stories begin here... ‘Boarding lies at the heart of this Somerset School’ - Tatler Schools Guide BOOK YOUR SCHOOL VISIT TODAY
# G rea tStoriesBeginHere Co-Educational Boarding & Day Prep School | Outstanding Extra-Curricular Activities | Forces Discount 01963 442 606 | www.hazlegrove.co.uk | admissions@hazlegrove.co.uk | Sparkford, Somerset, BA22 7JA
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SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
NEW YEAR : NEW TERM - IT IS NOT TOO LATE TO JOIN US Our new term starts on 8th January and offers a great opportunity if you are looking to improve your English or learn a new language. The lessons are fun and sociable as we believe this is the best environment in which to learn. In addition to improving your language skills, the classroom is a great place to make new friends and find out about other countries and their cultures. The Language Centre provides ‘English as a Foreign Language’ to the dependants and families of international officers attending courses at the Defence Academy plus the local community. We also provide tuition in French, Spanish, German and Italian to families across the entire Shrivenham Station site and the local community. Both group and private lessons are available to suit all abilities, from beginner through to advanced. There is also the opportunity to be tutored in your own home. INCREASE CONFIDENCE Everyone who attends English lessons regularly can expect to: · become more confident and fluent in spoken English · improve their listening skills · learn lots of new vocabulary · make considerable progress in
their understanding of grammar We achieve this by working our way through a coursebook. We also use games, role-plays and short presentations to make learning more effective and enjoyable. Most of our work is in pairs or small groups. Students can elect to sit diploma examinations in English from the Cambridge Examination board on completion of their courses and we also run exam preparation lessons. CLASSES FOR CHILDREN Specially tailored classes for children are available in your own home.
The Language Centre is open during the day for English classes and in the evening for foreign language tuition. Find us at: 7 Axis Road, opposite St Alban’s Church. For more information, call us on: 01793 784881 or email: languagecentre7@ gmail.com
Bespoke 1:1 Tuition
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NEW TERM STARTS 8TH JANUARY ENGLISH CLASSES ALL LEVELS Weekdays 9.30am – 11.30am FOREIGN LANGUAGE EVENING CLASSES All levels Monday – Thursday FRENCH
SPANISH
ITALIAN
GERMAN
Book your place Email: languagecentre7@gmail.com www.shrivenhamlanguagecentre.co.uk
We offer students 1:1 English and Foreign Language tuition with the option to be taught in the privacy of your own home.
For more up-to-date timetable
Email us on languagecentre7@gmail.com or drop in and speak to us about how we can help you.
shrivenhamlanguagecentre.co.uk
information visit
WINTER 2023
SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
MORE THAN A LANGUAGE CENTRE A warm community where students make friends and share stories of their different countries and cultures Between the structured classes throughout the year there is a social programme of craft sessions, baking and outings. Students practice their language skills while having fun, a very effective form of learning.
SCONE MAKING & BAKING
BATH CHRISTMAS MARKET
Students made scones whilst having a fun discussion about whether to put the jam or the cream on first! Scones are thought to have originated in Scotland in the early 1500s, originally made using oats. Now they form an essential part of the cream tea and are the subject of a passionate debate between Cornwall and Devon as to the correct protocol...jam or cream first.
It has become a tradition to take our students to the Christmas Market where they can soak up the festive atmosphere in the historic city of Bath at the same time as gaining inspiration for Christmas gifts.
Pictured right: Our English Intermediate 1 class learned how to make the quintessentially British scone
ICEBREAKER DINNER English Intermediate 1 students decorating cupcakes for the Halloween party
Our students and teachers attended the Icebreaker dinner held at the Defence Academy on 6th October 2023. It was a lovely social evening organised by Daffys where everyone shone. We think our students make a dazzling picture.
CANDLE HOLDER MAKING Our students learned about the Danish concept of hygge, pronounced ‘hoo-ga’, which is normally translated into English as cosiness. Sitting by the fire on a cold night sipping on mulled wine and surrounded by candles is definitely ‘hygge’. Our group learned how to make candle holders while enjoying a conversation about what cosiness meant to them.
EVEN LEARNING IS FUN
CARVING PUMPKINS AT HALLOWEEN Our not so scary teachers and students at the Halloween party following class. WINTER 2023
Our English Intermediate 2 students in the classroom
Wishing you a very happy New Year from all at the Language Centre
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SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
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SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
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SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
Useful Contacts Clubs & Organisations
Community Services
Maj Anthony Bolton Shrivenham Station Welfare Officer
01793 785786
DAFFYS
WO1 Mick Mayes Station Welfare Warrant Officer
01793 314791
Shrivenham Station Saddle Club 01793 785489 www.shrivenhamsaddleclub.co.uk
Mrs Rebecca Dunne Families & Welfare Coordinator
01793 780793
Ms Donna Gardner Families and Welfare Lead Admin
01793 780793
Military Provost Guard Service (MPGS)
01793 785612 785617
Scouts
cn@wands.org.uk www.kascouts.org.uk/wands
Defence Academy Golf Club
Jayne Russell 07779973446 Community Development Jayne.Russell133@mod.gov.uk Worker Padre Robert Church
dadaffys@gmail.com
01793 314161/ Mobile 07977 479866 Email: Robert.church@da.mod.uk
Leigh Hyde, 01793 314033 /mobile: 07920162664 Chaplaincy Coordinator leigh.hyde@da.mod.uk
01793 785725
Girlguiding Tuckmill ( Watchfield & Shrivenham) (Rainbows, Brownies, Guides,Rangers, Volunteering) contact: jahollick1@gmail.com Defence Academy Military Wives Choir defenceacademy@militarywiveschoirs.org Academy Quilters
01793 762278
Local Services
Shrivenham Village Post Office Watchfield Village Hall
01793 782260 01793 782234 or 783157
Education Medical Services
Shrivenham Station Medical Centre Shrivenham Station Dental Centre Elm Tree Surgery, Shrivenham Village Fernhill Practice, Faringdon White Horse Practice, Faringdon Westrop Surgery, Highworth Great Western Hospital, Swindon John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford Highworth Dental Surgery Faringdon Dental Surgery Graham Jones Pharmacy Vets Drove Veterinary Hospital
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Shrivenham Station Language Centre Alfresco Child Care The Barn Kindergarten Old Station Nursery Watchfield Primary School Shrivenham CE Primary School Longcot & Fernham Primary School Shellingford Primary School Faringdon Community College Cranfield University Switchboard
01793 784881 01793 790263 01793 782182 01367 243800 01793 782623 01793 782406 01793 782381 01367 710301 01367 240375 01793 785810
Miscellaneous
Main Gate Reception JSCSC Reception (Main Foyer)
01793 788270 01793 788000
WINTER 2023
SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
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SHRIVENHAM COMMUNITY NEWS
The Snooty Mehmaan delivers the best in asian cuisine combined with a great venue with boutique hotel rooms, an award-winning restaurant, and a function room to host large events such as weddings, conferences, birthdays, etc. Serving breakfast, lunch & dinner With an emphasis on refined yet creative pan-asian cuisine, the menu incorporates both traditional classic favourites and original new dishes that apply classic flavours with a modern twist. Located outside littleworth village on the A420 near Faringdon, Oxfordshire and surrounded by the picturesque oxfordshire countryside. The restaurant itself holds many of the original buildings strong architectural features including original oak beams and flooring give the snooty mehmaan its strong and natural environment that amplifies both the mood and the creative food on offer. Download the snooty app and enjoy exclusive offers
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THANK YOU We’d like to thank everyone for their incredible support this year. Without you donating via Service Day’s Pay Giving, completing fundraising challenges, or signposting friends and colleagues who need our help, we wouldn’t be able to provide essential support to other RAF serving personnel, veterans, and their families. Whether it’s tackling financial difficulties, providing access to counselling, or offering respite holidays, we’ve been able to help in so many ways and we’ll continue to be here for you for as long as you need. Your continued support is deeply appreciated, and we look forward to standing side by side with you in 2024. Thank you for being part of our RAF Family!
Find out how you can get involved and how we can support you: rafbf.org SCAN ME WITH YOUR CAMERA
EMOTIONAL WELLBEING FRIENDSHIPS AND CONNECTIONS FAMILY AND RELATIONSHIPS
The RAF Benevolent Fund is a registered charity in England and Wales (1081009) and Scotland (SC038109)
INDEPENDENT LIVING
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE