Shrivenham Station Community News
Station Welfare Team...
Maj Anthony Bolton Station Welfare Officer 01793 785786
e: Anthony.bolton@ da.mod.uk
Duty Mobile: 07825 674635
Shrivenham Station Community News
WO2 Dave Barrow
Station Welfare
Warrant Officer 01793 314791
e: David.barrow770@mod.gov.uk
or: David.barrow@da.mod.uk
Duty Mobile: 07825 674635
Ms Donna Gardner Families & Welfare Coordinator 01793 780793
e: Donna.gardner@ da.mod.uk
Mr Issam Laribi Families & Welfare Lead Administrator e: Issam.laribi@ 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 Summer edition may be submitted at any time but must be received by 1st May 2025 for publication in mid-June 2025.
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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: Emergency Welfare Cases.
Children’s visits for divorced/separated personnel.
Visits by Wives/Husbands/Partners/Children to unaccompanied PS and Students on long courses.
Visits to Students on short or non-residential courses.
Other family visits.
Transit Accommodation during transition between assignments.
The cost of hiring the Welfare Houses is as follows:
A and B: £12.00 per night.
C, D, E, and F: £25.00 per night. Non DEFAC personnel: £35.00 per night.
For more information contact the Welfare Team on 01793 780793.
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.
The 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, be sure to stop by and say ‘hello’.
The JCC has two ‘soft play’ areas for young children (under 1metre 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
wealth of knowledge and can also provide details regarding local facilities and amenities.
The JCC is open 0800 - 1630hrs Monday to Thursday and 08001230hrs Friday.
The Soft Play Areas are open 0830 - 1600hrs 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!
Defence Academy Military Wives Choir
Our last report saw us completing the season of Remembrance and getting ready for events related to Christmas. Over the past few months we have been busier than ever, lending our voices to a series of meaningful and festive concerts. These included our participation in International Day and a joyous Christmas concert, both of which embodied the spirit of music bringing people together.
Shortly after the Remembrance commemorations we were invited to perform at International Day to celebrate the diverse cultures and traditions of the student community from around the world. We prepared and sang three songs fairly early on in the day and were then able to enjoy everything that the day had to offer.
As part of the build-up to Christmas we held our traditional annual wreath workshop, listening to suitably seasonal music and songs as we created our masterpieces.
Our Christmas programme included joining forces with the Shrivenham Ladies Choir for a spectacular concert at St Andrew’s Church in Shrivenham, at which we collectively delivered powerful arrangements of seasonal classics, including the amusing ‘Twelve or so Days of Christmas’. The event was a true
of community spirit and raised money for various charities.
our traditions, we also
at Feredune Court Care Home in Faringdon, at the Shrivenham Station Carols and at the Defence Academy Language Centre, at all of which everyone joined in the festive singing.
In late January our choir
celebrated its 13th birthday and we are now looking forward to even more musical adventures in the months ahead. Whether performing at community events, charity concerts or special services we remain dedicated to sharing the joy of music with everyone.
celebration
Maintaining
sang
No auditions, no experience required
We meet on Monday mornings from 10.30 am until noon at the Jubilee Community Centre, Faringdon Road, Watchfield and on Thursday nights for our main rehearsal from 7.30 to 9.30 pm at St Alban’s Church, Axis Road, Watchfield. For further information please pop along to one of these sessions. We’d love to see you! Or email – defenceacademy@militarywiveschoirs.org
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Remembering at 1st Watchfield & Shrivenham Scout Group
As usual, the focus for November in the 1st Watchfield & Shrivenham Scout Group was very much on Remembrance.
On Saturday 9 November 2024, seven of our Scouts were among twenty very proud young people to be presented with their Stuart Rae Challenge Award. This Challenge commemorates Stuart Rae, whose love for adventure was kindled during his time as a Scout in King Alfred District during the 1950s and 1960s. Stuart went on to commission into the Royal Marines, where he pursued greater adventures, completing several challenging first ascents in the Greater Ranges before sadly being killed on active service in Oman in 1971. The Challenge was created in 1972 in his memory and is the pinnacle of adventurous Scouting in the District. Scouts spend a year undertaking the Challenge, which involves learning first aid and navigation skills, and culminates in a self-led overnight expedition in remote, mountainous terrain in mid-Wales.
Helen Wright, the Group Scout Leader, said, “The Scouts have to complete their Chief Scout’s ‘Gold’ Award to qualify for the Stuart Rae Challenge, which makes the level of the Challenge similar to a Duke of Edinburgh ‘Silver’ Award. It really is a fantastic achievement, especially as they are typically only 14 years old.”
The Awards were presented by Stuart’s sister at a ceremony attended by Deputy Lieutenant James Sibbald, Dr Angela Dunford the Mayor of Wantage, former Mayor Steve Trinder, members of Stuart’s family, Leaders, and enthusiastic friends and relatives. One proud recipient said: ‘Doing this has taught me how much I can achieve when I set my mind to it!’
On Remembrance Sunday, Beavers, Cubs, and Scouts joined members of our local community at services in Shrivenham, Watchfield, Ashbury, and Longcot to remember those who have
Stuart Rae on the Cioch, Isle of Skye, in 1966 shortly before joining the Royal Marines (photo by Colin Beechey).
The poppy wreaths made by the Cub Scouts.
A Cub Scout wearing his grandfather’s medals.
Stuart Rae Challenge Awards Ceremony with a Deputy Lieutenant.
lived and died in the service of their country.
Helen Wright, the Group Scout Leader, said, “As ever, this has been a thought-provoking time, as we help our young people understand why we remember those who gave so much for our present and future. We were delighted to have with us our members from Canada, France, Ireland, and Malaysia.”
In Shrivenham, young people and Leaders paraded along the High Street with their Section Flags to form a guard of honour at the entrance to St Andrew’s Church. The Cubs were delighted to see the wreaths they had made were in pride of place on pews and on the pulpit. A nine-year-old Cub who carried the Cub Flag while wearing his grandfather’s war medals said: “I’m so proud to have been part of the parade and to wear these medals for my grandfather. It’s important to remember.” Young people from the Group laid wreaths in all four villages. A seven-year-old Beaver said he was “very proud to lay the wreath” at the war memorial “like the King did” at the Cenotaph.
The 1st Watchfield & Shrivenham Scout Group is a thriving and active Scout Group based at the Defence Academy. We welcome children from UK and international armed forces’ families, and from the local villages. Every week, our 36 Beavers, 48 Cubs, and 28 Scouts enjoy fun, exciting, and safe indoor and outdoor Scouting activities in and around the Defence Academy and local community. At weekends, there
Rain was a frequent experience for the challengers.
are opportunities to go on day trips and camps. All this is enabled by our adult volunteer
If your young person would like to be a Beaver (6-8 years), a Cub (8-10.5 years), or a Scout (10.5-14 years); or if you’d like to join the fun and become an adult volunteer, please email Helen on: helenwright@kascouts.org.uk
Leaders and our support base of Trustees and Committee Members.
Weighing the rucksacks prior to the final expedition.
Out in the Welsh hills.
More rain.
Setting out on an expedition.
Sometimes there was some sunshine for the Challengers!
Scouting Volunteer is made an MBE in New Year’s Honours List
The New Year began with the splendid news that one of our volunteers had been recognised in the 2025 New Year’s Honours List.
Dr Roger Padgham, known to practically everyone as ‘Bosun’, was made a Member of the British Empire (MBE) for services to young people through more than 50 years of volunteer
Scouting. Bosun has been a volunteer with 1st Watchfield & Shrivenham Scout Group since moving to the area in 1974, and is a well-known figure around the Defence Academy Over the years, through roles in Scouts, Cubs, and Beavers, his energy, enthusiasm, and commitment have directly enabled hundreds of children – spanning three generations in some families – to enjoy exciting and rewarding activities and develop skills for life. Through training and development
roles at District and County level, Bosun has also directly supported or benefited thousands of adults. We all join in sending him our sincere congratulations on this
well-deserved honour and look forward to seeing him wearing it after his formal investiture by HM the King at Buckingham Palace at the end of March.
BUNCO
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Bosun after a gliding flight bought for him by the Cub Scouts
Bosun at the Shrivenham ‘Party on the Rec’ in 2024
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Padre Robert Church...
Did you attempt ‘Dry January’ this year? Have you been visiting the gym or cooking healthy food as a counter to the excesses of Christmas? This time of year often brings about a desire to change our less healthy habits.
But the change of calendar year isn’t the only opportunity we have for some honest self-reflection and striving for improvement. On 5th March we will begin a time Christians know as Lent. This six-week period is given to us in the run up to Easter, so that we might take a long, loving look at our lives. The aim is to be honest as to how much the way we live currently matches up with our values and priorities. What might we need to do to live the fullest life we can?
Many people still think of Lent as a time to give up chocolate, but it can be so much more than just an opportunity for a health-kick or a test of willpower. Instead, think of it as a time to live more deliberately and intentionally. How can you be more fully yourself? What is stopping you from living how you should?
What good habits would you like to cultivate?
Perhaps you feel like you don’t spend enough time keeping in touch with friends and family? During Lent you could commit to making a call or sending a message each day to somebody you miss.
Is your use of technology becoming unhealthy? You could think about limiting
Station Chaplaincy
Our aim is to build a strong and supportive community through kindness and compassion. We support local military families, and all associated with the military. We provide pastoral, spiritual, and religious care, strength and guidance, all regardless of your belief or faith background.
Station Chaplaincy is always here to lend an ear, 24/7. We can meet for a walk, or chat over a brew.
We are situated in Building 43, car park A, opposite Kitchener Hall
For more info, please contact the Station Chaplaincy Team:
Padre Robert Church, 07977479866
Chaplaincy Coordinator, Leigh Hyde, 07920162664, leigh.hyde@da.mod.uk
screen time or resolve to getting stuck into your pile of unread books.
Are you happy with how you spend your money? Do you really need everything you buy? Perhaps you could donate to a charity or save for something important instead.
The hope is that by taking on a new discipline through Lent, you will form good habits that will last. If we build those foundations now, when we are met with the inevitable challenges life throws at us, we will be more resilient as we face.
Remember though that the challenge of Lent ends with the joy and hope of Easter, celebrating the resurrection
of Jesus Christ. That means celebrating the triumph of the God of love over hatred and darkness. As we prepare to celebrate that love and the hope it brings, let’s bring hope and growth into our own lives. By doing so, and helping those around us to do the same, we will be better able to remain resilient as we face the future.
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
Family Friendly Worship 11:00-12:00 every Sunday
Services led by Padre Church, Station Padre
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.
St. Alban’s, Watchfield, Ironside Drive, SN6 8RL
Multi-Faith Provision at the Defence Academy
The Main Multi Faith Prayer Room is situated in Beckett House, opposite the reception.
A smaller Multi Faith Prayer Room and Chapel can also be found in JSCSC first floor, Block B and is open 24hrs.
Friday Prayers
Take place from 13:00 - 14:00 every Friday at Beckett House, Multi Faith Prayer Room.
For more information, please contact Padre Robert, Station Chaplain.
International Day
A myriad of voices and languages ringing out across the Cormorant Building ould only mean one thing. International Day was back!
The annual event has brought families from across the Defence Academy together for more than four decades, and celebrates the rich multicultural heritage represented each year on the Advanced Command and Staff Course (ACSC).
This year, 55 countries were represented alongside the United Kingdom’s ‘Home Nations’. Each country hosted a stand, celebrating their unique culture, colours, costumes and culinary delights.
A highlight of the first term for
ACSC students, International Day helps foster a strong community spirit and mutual understanding among course members and their families, celebrating both time-honoured partnerships and new friendships.
December saw us host our first Veterans Active Recovery Course. We are proud to be able to host these courses and show more veterans how our horses and ponies can help with rehabilitation and recovery.
Even in the winter months we are as busy as ever here at Shrivenham Equestrian Centre.
AIM Riding For The Disabled Group have also joined us for an additional session a week. They hold lessons here on Wednesday evenings and Sunday afternoons and have been a great addition to the services offered here at Shrivenham Equestrian Centre.
We continue to hold our monthly coffee mornings and pony rides, which are proving incredibly popular. We hold them the last Saturday of the month and the pony rides require pre-booking. They are the perfect way to test out little ones appetite for riding without the pressure of lessons.
If you're interested in getting involved please don't hesitate to get in contact with our volunteer coordinator at: fundraiser@shrivenhamequestrian.com
Army Museum receives national recognition from Arts Council
The Royal Army Chaplains’ Museum has received Full Accreditation status from the Arts Council England, in recognition of its commitment to preserving the military’s faith heritage.
Located at Beckett Gate, the museum promotes public understanding of religion and belief in the military. It regularly hosts visitors to the Defence Academy and those external to Shrivenham Station, while representing faith and worship from across all three of the military services.
The Accreditation Scheme is the UK industry standard for museums and galleries, governing how they are managed, how they care for their collections and how they engage with visitors.
The process to secure the new status took eight months. Museum Curator, David Blake, was thrilled to learn the application had been successful. He said:
“Accreditation is the nationally agreed standard to ensure all museums are sustainable, focused and trusted, inspiring the confidence of the public, funding, and governing bodies.
The Royal Army Chaplains’ Museum aims to inform and inspire visitors with the heritage and practice of Faith
in the Forces, while advancing the education and public understanding of religion and belief in military life. This recognition has helped the museum focus on how it plans to meet these and other objectives.”
The museum relocated to Shrivenham Station from its
previous home at Amport House, following the Armed Forces Chaplaincy Centre’s move to Beckett House in 2019. In 2020, work started on building a new permanent home for the collection, which was officially opened in May 2022 by The Duchess of Edinburgh, formally Sophie Countess of Wessex.
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Defence Academy Golf Club
Established in 1956, the Defence Academy Golf Club offers a beautiful parkland 18-hole golf club on your doorstep.
Set within the confines of the Shrivenham campus, the club provides a sporting and welfare facility for MOD employees and their families at the Defence Academy, enabling them to take up and enjoy the game of golf. The club is open to Service Personnel, MOD employees and contractors working on site, and their families, and to the wider military community located at nearby MOD sites. The club welcomes veterans and has a bespoke membership pathway to encourage former Service Personnel to join this special club.
We are affiliated to England Golf, the governing body of golf in the UK, allowing members to achieve and maintain official handicaps. We offer a 5666-yard, Par 70 course made up of 14 greens (4 are shared), so you get the full 18-hole experience. In addition, members can use the practice range, a dedicated practice hole, a practice putting area and a netted bay for warming up before a round of golf. We recognise the demands on staff and students at the Defence Academy and offer membership packages or ‘pay & play’ options to suit your needs. What better way is there to relax and improve your wellbeing. Please contact the club manager, Karen Banbrook, for details.
Operating under the umbrella of the Defence Academy Athletics Union, the club looks forward to our 70th Anniversary in 2026. The club and course have developed over the years, growing from small beginnings to the current 18-hole layout. We are one of a very small number of military golf courses left in the UK. By the early 1980’s the course consisted of just 9 holes and grew in phases as space become available when additional sport fields were introduced at the Watchfield end of the campus. The course is well suited to the needs of beginners, with excellent practice facilities and is less crowded than many public courses.
The club offers a range of member competitions from
Looking back….
The Defence Academy Golf Club has developed over the years, growing from small beginnings in the days of the Royal Military College of Science to the current 18-hole layout. By the early 1980’s the course consisted of just 9 holes.
1980 course
Today’s course
1st hole Par 5 12th hole Par 5
2nd hole Par 4 2nd hole Par 4
3rd hole Par 4 5th hole Par 4
4th hole Par 4 6th hole Par 4
5th hole Par 4 18th hole Par 4
6th hole Par 3 8th hole Par 3
7th hole Par 3 9th hole Par 3
8th hole Par 3 10th hole green
(Tee box by today’s 9th green)
9th hole Par 3 11th hole Par 3
April to October. The club championships are held in June each year. Matches against other military and civilian teams and clubs has always been part of the club’s activities. Today, members take part in competitive and social golf team matches against other clubs across the Cotswolds, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire and Berkshire area, along with matches against military societies.
The oldest trophy competed for is perhaps the Shrivenham Cup, played against Frilford Heath Golf Club, since 1953.
Social golf events provide a perfect opportunity for fund raising. The club supports two charities. The On Course Foundation, a charity that supports the recovery of wounded, injured or sick Service Personnel, and veterans, through the medium of golf and more locally, Pennyhooks Farm Trust, supporting adults on the Autistic Spectrum.
After a busy 2024 season, £1200 was raised, and each charity received £600 from the golf club.
THE SHRIVENHAM CUP
The long association with Frilford Heath Golf Club is celebrated in the annual Shrivenham Cup competition. Golfers at the Royal Military College of Science, RMCS, the predecessor of the Defence Academy were active before the course at Shrivenham was created. In those long-forgotten days, players hosted matches at Frilford or elsewhere. The Shrivenham Cup was presented in 1953 by the RMCS and has been competed for since at Frilford. From 1953, Frilford has won the Cup 53 times, the longest winning run of which was between 1982 and 1999 inclusive. Defence Academy has won 14 times, with a 5-year winning run between 1968 and 1972 inclusive. It was not played in 2020 due to the pandemic.
Garage
MOT testing, repairs, servicing and diagnostics. We do anything from tyres to brakes, batteries and exhausts.
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THE SHRIVENHAM CUP - 2024
If you are interested in joining the club as a member or playing golf during you stay at the Defence Academy, please contact the club manager.
Contact details
Karen Banbrook, Club Manager 01793 785725 (in office Mon, Wed & Fri) Email: manager@dagolfclub.onmicrosoft.com
Just £569 per term (CEA eligible families)
WHERE EXCEPTIONAL EDUCATION MEETS OUTSTANDING OPPORTUNITIES
Ranked in the top 5% of schools nationally, students make outstanding progress at GCSE - over two-thirds a grade above national average. 95% of students progressed to university - 40% of which were Oxbridge and Russell Group. Students benefit from excellent teaching, a comprehensive curriculum, and a vast breadth of opportunities beyond the classroom. The boarding school, open to 11-18-year-olds, prides itself on offering outstanding pastoral care, ensuring students feel relaxed and happy in their home away from home.
Defence Academy Golf Club Captain, WO2 Marcus Murcott with Professor Derrick Neal, Frilford Heath Golf Club. In a close match Frilford won, just!
Birmingham Bristol Gatwick Heathrow Some of Airport Prices from Defence Academy
Luton Stanstead
I greatly enjoyed my time at Shrivenham, especially so as a member of the Academy Quilters.
Being an absolute beginner and not knowing how to drive a sewing machine at all…..believe me, I was mightily relieved to find that I was not the only “baby quilter” as we were endearing called. Learnt so much in the sessions and discovered, I could message the tutor and get extra help and instruction.
I love, love being a quilter and have really surprised myself with the great quilts and Christmas stockings I have made. Enjoyed being able to work at my own rate, seeing the lovely things the other quilters made and loved being able to make my own decisions as to what colours to use etc.
Of course, a few mistakes were made but luckily the tutor always had a “plan b” to help me out. Apart from learning to use a sewing machine, cut my fabrics, resize my chosen quilt blocks (easy maths for that, nothing frightening) I also learnt that it is quite ok just to sit quietly and sew if I wanted to……really appreciated the peace and calm feeling that I felt when doing that.
Being a busy Mum, trying to fit in some studying, caring for home and family, believe me….I really,
really needed that peace and calm.
Just wish every posting had a quilt group like the one at Shrivenham.
I owe the tutor and group a mega thank you for being so patient with me and giving me a much needed chill out space and time that helped me keep sane and creatively satisfied.
Now I know how beneficial patchwork and quilting is….am going to start my own group and pass on the skills I have learnt, both self care and patchwork ones.
Thankfully the tutor has been by my side, cyber wise, to help me with my new fun venture on the other side of the world.
My parting suggestion to any of you hesitating about learning to make a quilt …..don’t waste time hesitating…..just go ( they meet Monday nights and Thursday mornings ) and discover a lovely world of colour, creativity and friendship, honestly, you won’t regret it.
Thank you Academy Quilters, you’re the best.
Suzanne, Australia.
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LANGUAGE CENTRE FOR ALL
Is learning a new language on your wishlist? If so, come and check out your local Language Centre, open to all.
We offer English as a second language and foreign language lessons in French, Spanish, Italian and German.
English as a second language
Are you keen to improve your English comprehension and communication skills? Lessons are fun and sociable and, in addition to improving language ability, it is a great place to make new friends and find out about other countries and their cultures. Students can elect to sit graded examinations in English from the Cambridge Examination board on completion of their courses, and we run exam preparation lessons, but there is no pressure to do so.
Groups and private lessons
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 lessons regularly can expect to become more confident and fluent in the language, improve listening skills and make considerable progress in their understanding of grammar.
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
We offer students 1:1 English and Foreign Language tuition with the option to be taught in the privacy of your own home.
Email us on languagecentre7@gmail.com or drop in and speak to us about how we can help you.
ENGLISH CLASSES ALL LEVELS
Monday - Thursday 9.30am – 11.30am
FOREIGN LANGUAGE EVENING CLASSES
French, German, Spanish and Italian
All levels - Beginners to Advanced Monday – Thursday
For more information please contact us: Email: languagecentre7@gmail.com www.shrivenhamlanguagecentre.co.uk
What the Language Centre means to us:
The Language Centre has changed my life for the better. In addition to learning English, I have also met friends from different countries of the world and I have started spending enjoyable and beautiful times with them. I am really satisfied. It’s just like a journey, like a dream, like a place where you enjoy while you learn, it’s the Language Centre.
Samir from Algeria, Intermediate 2 class
For me, The Language Centre is a valuable place where I can not only learn languages, but also interact with friends from various countries and have international exchange.
Maika from Japan, Intermediate 2 class
When I came to this school I was scared because my English words didn’t want to form a proper sentence. Over time, I relaxed and learned many new things. Above all, I have met wonderful people here and made friends who will stay in my heart forever.
Ivana from Serbia, Intermediate 2 class
I just want to thank my wonderful English class. Each session, filled with laughter and learning, is an unforgettable journey that I greatly appreciate.
Nor from Malaysia, Intermediate 2 class
The Language Centre is a great opportunity to learn English in an enjoyable way. It’s also a great way to meet new people and share our cultures.
Lotana from IntermediateFrance, 2 class
TheLanguageCentreisasource ofenergyandalittlehappiness formeinthedistantlandof England.Andthere,Imet lifelonggoodfriends. Su-YeonfromSouthKorea, Intermediate2class
The Language Centre is a place where I can improve my English, connect with amazing women, and feel truly supported. It’s a space for learning, laughter, and friendship. Thanks to Jenny’s kindness and dedication, we feel much more confident in our lives here in England.
Iryna from IntermediateUkraine, 2 class
At the Language Centre, I have a great opportunity to enhance my language skills, learn from top instructors, and connect with students from around the world, enriching my academic journey and cultural understanding.
Allolo from Saudi Arabia, Intermediate 1 class
The Language Centre is a wonderful chance and opportunity to meet new people from around the world and improve your English language abilities.
Advanced class student
I like the Language Centre because I have the opportunity to improve my English without being judged for my mistakes. I also like it because I love to learn something about other cultures, thanks to my classmates.
Advanced class student.
The Language Centre is a good way to combine two important things at the same time : learning and having great friendships.
Advanced class student
TheLanguageCentrehasa veryfriendlyandpleasant environment.Iamalways happytogothere.
NinofromGeorgia, Intermediate 1 class
openTheLanguageCentreisan doortonewexperiences andtowonderfulencounters.
Advancedclassstudent
yourNotonlywillyouimprove meetlanguage,youwillalso fromsomanynicepeople allovertheworld. moreYouwillnotonlylearn broadenabouttheUKbutalso general.yourhorizonsin
Advancedclassstudent
Useful Contacts
Community Services
Maj Anthony Bolton
Shrivenham Station Welfare Officer 01793 785786
WO2 Dave Barrow
Station Welfare Warrant Officer 01793 314791
Ms Donna Gardner
Families and Welfare Coordinator 01793 780793
Mr Issam Laribi Families & Welfare Lead Administrator Email: Issam.laribi@da.mod.uk
Military Provost Guard Service 01793 785612 - (MPGS) 785617
Padre Robert Church
01793 314161/ Mobile 07977 479866
Email: Robert.church@da.mod.uk
Leigh Hyde
Chaplaincy Coordinator 01793 314033 /mobile: 07920162664 leigh.hyde@da.mod.uk
Medical Services
Shrivenham Station Medical Centre
01793 785552
Shrivenham Station Dental Centre 01793 785223
Elm Tree Surgery, Shrivenham Village 01793 782207
Fernhill Practice, Faringdon 01367 242407
White Horse Practice, Faringdon 01367 242388
Westrop Surgery, Highworth 01793 762218
Great Western Hospital, Swindon 01793 604020
John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford 01865 741166
Highworth Dental Surgery 01793 762231
Faringdon Dental Surgery 01367 240514
Graham Jones Pharmacy 01793 783336 Vets
Drove Veterinary Hospital 01793 522483
Local Services
Shrivenham Village Post Office 01793 782260
Watchfield Village Hall 01793 782234 or 783157
Clubs & Organisations
DAFFYS dadaffys@gmail.com
Shrivenham Station Equestrian Centre 01793 785489 http://www.shrivenhamequestrian.com/ Scouts
cn@wands.org.uk www.kascouts.org.uk/wands
Defence Academy Golf Club 01793 785725
Girlguiding Tuckmill ( Watchfield & Shrivenham) (Rainbows, Brownies, Guides,Rangers, Volunteering) Email: jahollick1@gmail.com
Defence Academy Military Wives Choir defenceacademy@militarywiveschoirs.org
Academy Quilters 01793 762278
Education
Shrivenham Station Language Centre 01793 784881
Alfresco Child Care 01793 790263
The Barn Kindergarten 01793 782182
Old Station Nursery 01367 243800
Watchfield Primary School 01793 782623
Shrivenham CE Primary School 01793 782406
Longcot & Fernham Primary School 01793 782381
Shellingford Primary School 01367 710301
Faringdon Community College 01367 240375
Cranfield University Switchboard 01793 785810
Miscellaneous
Main Gate Reception 01793 788270
JSCSC Reception (Main Foyer) 01793 788000
