Shrivenham Station Community News Summer 22

Shrivenham Station Community News

Summer 2022

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Shrivenham community news

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Shrivenham community news

Station Welfare Team...

Major Ed Bell Station Welfare Officer 01793 785786 e: edward.bell278@ mod.gov.uk Duty Mobile: 07825 674635

Shrivenham Station Community News

Station Commander's Foreword external functions that are taking place around the site.

WO1 Mick Mayes Station Welfare Warrant Officer 01793 314791 e: michael.mayes656 @mod.gov.uk Duty Mobile: 07825 674635

Mrs Rebecca Dunne Families & Welfare Specialist Coordinator 01793 780793 e: Rebecca.dunne@ da.mod.uk

Miss Samantha Davies Families & Welfare Lead Administrator 01793 780793 e: Samantha.davies@ da.mod.uk

edward.Bell278@mod.gov.uk 01793 785786 D 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 13th Aug 2022 for publication at the end of the month.

Advertising: Jayne Bailey Lance Media Group Ltd Tel: (01536) 334219 Email: jayne@lancemedia.co.uk Cover image:

SUMMER 2022

Wg Cdr Leonie Boyd MEng (Hons) MDA CEng RAF

Welcome to the Summer Edition of the Shrivenham Community News.

It’s lovely to be writing this whilst enjoying some summer weather at the moment, if only the UK weather were more consistent and reliable.

I hope that those of you who were able to attend the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebration at Beckett House enjoyed it, certainly I understand the sun did shine on Shrivenham, even if at the last moment! A huge thanks to WO1 Belcher-Marks, the Defence Academy WO, Serco and ESS in particular for their hard work in organising and delivering this superb evening. My thanks also to Jayne Russell, our Army Welfare Service Community Development Worker, for the children’s craft activity and the Defence Academy Military Wives Choir, whose performance of the ‘Best of British’ was extremely fitting and well received by those in attendance.

It is fantastic to see life starting to return to our Messes, from the success of the Shrivenham Station Offrs’ Mess Platinum Jubilee Afternoon Tea, to the much-anticipated Shrivenham Station Purple Ball, in addition to dinners, charity golf days and numerous conferences, events and other

I hope that many of you are able to enjoy the tremendous facilities that we are so lucky to have here, from the golf course to the new sports hall to the outdoor swimming pool that is open again for the summer season. None of these things could happen without the amazing efforts of our volunteers, so please do consider whether you could offer some of your time to help with Station or Mess events, sports and arts clubs, or clubs and activities for the children of those here at Shrivenham, working alongside the Welfare and Chaplaincy Team and our Community Development Worker. Please register your interest in supporting the Shrivenham community by emailing: DEFAC-STN-CoordGrpMailbox@ da.mod.uk.

We are also actively working to increase and diversify the classes and activities on offer in both the sports hall and the swimming pool, so please keep your eyes open for more information shortly.

We have listened to your feedback about what is on offer here at Shrivenham and are aware that there are lots of things planned over the next month or so, particularly as the summer break approaches from a course perspective. As a result, we have taken the decision to cancel the event in July, and instead look to Autumn when we will plan a sports, wellbeing and families event, similar to the Academy Together event for those who were able to attend that last year.

I know that many of you will be leaving the Defence Academy over the next couple of months, I wish you all the best in your new roles, locations, homes and schools and hope that you have enjoyed your time here at Shrivenham. Fingers crossed the lovely summer weather continues, and I hope that you are all able to enjoy some well-earned rest and relaxation over the next couple of months with family and friends.

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Shrivenham community news

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Shrivenham community news

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Shrivenham community news

Royal Air Force Combined Parade personnel to celebrate their achievements and recognises the crucial part families, friends and loved ones play in the success of our people.​​​​​​​ Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston said:

Last week saw the Combined Parade of commissioned and noncommissioned Aviators who have graduated from RAF Halton and RAF Cranwell over the last two years but couldn’t take part in a parade due to the pandemic.

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is Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales was the Reviewing Officer for the Royal Air Force College’s Combined Parade at Royal Air Force College Cranwell on Friday 29 April 2022.

His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales was escorted by the Commandant of the Royal Air Force College, Air Commodore Andrew Dickens, taking the Royal Salute whilst a RAF Voyager and two Typhoons flew overhead. In his speech, His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales commended the graduates:

"If I may say so, I was immensely impressed that you were all able to continue with your courses and successfully graduate, given all the complexities.

I know that this will not have been easy and at the end of the day is a great testament to the flexibility and determination of both 6

the staff and every one of you. This same dedication, adaptability and willingness continually to push yourselves will be required time after time in your future careers, as I have no doubt you are already experiencing. The same high standards that you demonstrated throughout your training will form the basis of safe and effective operations in the future, no matter what your role in the Royal Air Force."

“We are immensely proud to have His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales at our RAF Combined Parade today as our Reviewing Officer.

This day is all the more special as we are now able to formally celebrate and recognise the commitment of our personnel who are just beginning their RAF careers and are the Next Generation Air Force.”

personnel, their friends and families who attended this unique occasion.

The Combined Parade celebrated not only the achievements of the individuals on parade but also the resilience to continue to deliver Phase one training throughout a Pandemic. Corporal Smith said:

The Combined Parade comprised of over five hundred Aviators that had graduated from their intitial training during the COVID Pandemic period, when families, friends and loved ones were restricted from attending the graduation parades. This Parade has enabled the RAF’s newest

“Today, is a special day not just for me but my family and friends. I didn’t get the opportunity to share this day with my family when I graduated from Royal Air Force Halton in March 2020.

Therefore, I feel grateful to have been given this opportunity today.”

His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales also highlighted the important role of families:

"The strains of Service life do not fall on you alone and you will no doubt have to call on the patience and support of your loved ones throughout your careers."

After reviewing the Parade of Aviators, His Royal Highness spoke to the parading SUMMER 2022

Shrivenham community news

Below you can read more about some of the graduates, and their reasons for joining the RAF SAC Sally Lester

Senior Aircraftsman Sally Lester is an Air and Ground Steward based at Brize Norton. She joined the Royal Air Force two years ago after being made redundant from her civilian job.

“I didn’t plan on joining the RAF, I had the opportunity to do something different and always wanted to be Cabin Crew.

I searched online to see what my options were and the RAF came up. A year later I was going through basic training! The recruitment process was daunting at first, being 29 years old I felt like I would have to work harder than the younger recruits around me. I was fortunate enough to take part in a trip round the world with the Defence Secretary last year.

We stopped in Washington, Los Angeles, Tokyo, Vietnam and many more places. It was like a trip of a lifetime.”

SAC Lester is from Rotherham in Yorkshire where she lives with her boyfriend. Speaking after the parade her mum said:

“I couldn’t believe it was finally here, we’ve been disappointed as we didn’t think a passing out parade would ever happen but here we are. Its been a really lovely day.”

Flt Lt Jonny Anderson

Flight Lieutenant Jonny Anderson, A Logistics Officer from RAF Cranwell was one of the Flight Commanders in the parade, leading out Lancaster Squadron, the Officer Contingent of the parade.

“I feel immensely proud to be able to come back to graduate from College Hall Officer’s Mess. I work here normally so to come back on parade is fantastic”.

Flt Lt Anderson undertook his Officer’s training at Cranwell back in 2020 and has his partner and neighbours coming to watch him graduate. He joined the RAF in 2004 as a supplier; working in Tactical Supply Wing he completed tours of Afghanistan and Iraq, going on to spend four years as a professional athlete for GB Bobsleigh. Following his time with the Bobsleigh Team he became a Phase Two trainer before undertaking his commission within the Logistics Branch.

Parade Commander, Group Captain Paul McClurg stated:

“I feel truly honoured to parade in front of His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales ,commanding our next generation of Aviators. The Combined parade recognises the hard work and commitment made by our Whole Force during the Covid pandemic”.

SUMMER 2022

After the Parade concluded His Royal Highness, met with Aviators, families and friends in College Hall Officers’ Mess. During the Combined Parade, musical accompaniment was provided by the Band of the Royal Air Force College, under the direction of Squadron Leader Chris I’Anson, Director of Music.

“I’ve had a lot of different experiences during my career in the RAF so far. Completing a tour of NATO Command in Ramstein recently was a highlight, but the one thing that stands out for me was being given the opportunity to train full time as a professional athlete with the potential to compete in the GB Bobsleigh Team at the Olympics.”

Looking to the future Flt Lt Anderson wants to specialise as a Movements Officer with the view to being a Flight Commander in a couple of year’s time.

“My family are immensely proud to see me graduate today.

My Partner is also an Officer in the RAF and is thrilled to be back here to see me graduate today.”

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Shrivenham community news

English Language Training in Montenegro

After 36 hours of taxis and cancelled flights, I am relieved to find out the Montenegrin Airforce’s only base is a mere 3-minute drive from Podgorica airport. . .

I

drop my bags in my new room, wander off to get my bearings, and immediately get stopped by an armed guard demanding to know who I am and what I am doing on a military base.

NATO’s newest member takes OPSEC seriously and is nervous about Russian or Serbian spies poking around its bases. Their suspicions of me become more understandable once I

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discover I’m the only person living on camp. All 3 Services together numbering only 2,500 people, Montenegro’s military is tiny, and its camps are small and functional with no living quarters or amenities other than some transit rooms.

The cook house serves one meal a day, between 0930 and 1000, and consists of two smiling

elderly women who insist I need 3 chocolate bars a day to go with my eggs and dried meats.

Sporting facilities are a pull up bar (actually some old goal posts), a tractor tire for flipping (“made in Czechoslovakia” stamped on the side) and a circular road that encompasses the camp. This, I’m informed the second time I’m stopped by armed guards, is for running only, not walking. Walking looks suspicious.

over lewd and inappropriate humour. This is the kind of course they want. These soldiers will not be writing essays in staff colleges or giving lectures on strategic theory; they will be trained by UK forces and

This lukewarm initial impression is wiped away once I meet my students however. I am here to deliver a 6-week Military English course to 16 members of the Montenegrin Special Forces. A mixture of younger guys, for whom Montenegro has always been an independent country, looking west to NATO and the EU, and the older NCOs who started their career in the Serbian army and take a more pragmatic approach to politics.

But all of them are delighted to be on the course. Hard working and motivated, they’re eager to show off the military slang they already know, and as soldiers across the world do, we immediately default to bonding SUMMER 2022

Shrivenham community news participating in multinational exercises. The Montenegrins have quickly realized that communication happens not only in embassies’ conference rooms and Brigade sand tables but also in smoking areas, brew rooms and out in the field.

They have grasped the true value of soft power and understand that their success in NATO is dependent not only on them being able to integrate into the system military, but also to develop a reputation for professionalism and excellence, both of which require the communication skills we teach.

The ability to speak English, particularly Operational, Military English is one that unlocks a plethora of training opportunities for them and is seen very much as a force multiplier. Our English courses are not so much another bit of training in their pipeline, but as a long-term investment in the success of the pipeline as a whole. It struck me that these soldiers, most of them veterans of Afghanistan or service in the French Foreign Legion, would automatically buy-in to the lessons I was delivering, despite

SUMMER 2022

being a junior officer with no combat experience.

The reputation they were trying to build was one the British Army, deservedly or not, carries in spades in the Balkans, and my ability to do my job was made immeasurably easier by the soft power my predecessors had projected.

It was wonderful to be able to see this in action first-hand, as I very much view it as the one of the core functions of the Defence Academy. Our role is not just the delivery of various courses and the research carried out at our facilities, but the projection of the UK’s soft power. The foreign students we receive here every year and the personnel and instructors we send abroad all have a palpable effect on UK Defence, they are an investment in future relationships and operations.

Language training provides that essential first step which allows us to bridge the gaps of communication and culture, to find our common ground and eventually develop the trust and mutual respect that is the cornerstone of soft power and regional stability.

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Shrivenham community news

Shrivenham Refugee Support Network Defense Academy

Running Club In March the Defence Academy Running Club sent a team to compete at the Army Half Marathon Championships in Fleet.

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he club had chosen this event last year as a target for individual and club training, with the weekly training sessions focused on preparing the runners to for this distance, which was uncharted territory for a number of the team.

Throughout the winter and spring the club would meet at the Defence Academy front gate for 0630 on Tuesday & Thursday mornings, for the routine training sessions. These increased in distance over the winter, with runs planned both within the Academy grounds and wider area, both on and off road. After a 4 month programme the team were ready for the race, although there was a still a degree of trepidation for those new to this distance.

The Race was fortunate to take place under a sunny spring sky, with warm temperatures throughout, which encouraged good support from with crowds in Fleet and local communities along the route offering food, water and encouragement.

Everyone from the team

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finished with times ranging from 1 hr 18 mins to 2 hours 10 mins, with us all feeling a sense of accomplishment.

On top of this individual satisfaction the team also finished 6th overall in the Army teams competition, which was a very encouraging result from this small group of runners drawn from across the defence academy.

Whilst lots of the team will be moving on this summer as the ICSC(L) and ACSC courses draw to an end, there are still plenty of opportunities to join the weekly running sessions; which will continue. And if you fancy targeting an event or joining the club, we would be keen to support you.

PoC – Edward.CharltonWeedy@ da.mod.uk

The war in Ukraine is causing enormous suffering and we are all no doubt looking for ways in which we can help.

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he government’s Homes For Ukraine scheme has been well publicised and families in the Shrivenham area have already started to welcome refugees. More are expected in the coming weeks and months of what is likely to be a long and desperate humanitarian crisis.

At time of writing, the MOD’s policy on whether those in Service Family Accommodation are permitted to host refugees remains under review and until this is complete personnel in Service Accommodation should not register an interest in housing Ukrainian refugees under this scheme. Those in private accommodation may do so but must contact their local Security Advisor to discuss the implications. If you wish to find out more, search for Ukraine – Security Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on MODNET and the government site Homes for Ukraine: Record your Interest on the internet.

However, as we wait for clarification on this policy we can all still offer real help to those in need now. The Shrivenham Refugee Support Network has been established to share information and help coordinate our community’s support to refugees from

Ukraine. If you would like to join the Network please contact Gordon Hughes (gordon.yewtree@gmail.com).

The nature of our support to refugee families is defined by their needs, such as donated items for a Quick Get-You-In Pack for an older Ukrainian couple moving into an unfurnished flat, and a donation of clothes for a Ukrainian mother of three.

She made sure she packed essentials for her children but with a limited luggage allowance brought almost nothing for herself. Host families are encouraged to “Just Ask” on behalf of their guests, network members will then spread the word to the wider community.

Future support required may include English language training, transport assistance, family guides around the local area, or just welcoming the families into our community with a warm smile, handshake, a cup of tea, and an assurance of safety and family security in Shrivenham.

There is also an ongoing need to provide support to those who remain in Ukraine, often in dire circumstances. Essential items are being collected at the Shrivenham Memorial Hall and at St Andrews church.

If you are able, monetary donations are encouraged to charitable organisations through the Disaster Emergency Committee (DEC).

Thank you for your support.

SUMMER 2022

Shrivenham community news

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Shrivenham community news ©ThinkDoImagineBuild at Shutterstock.com

DefAc Rugby Team progress to ARU KO Tankard final

Triathlon Club

Because of the restrictions placed on the team sport at the start of the season

by CV19, the Defence Academy Rugby team has played fewer matches this year than in seasons past.

Defence Academy Triathlon club is excited to announce that the Triathlon club will be starting coached swimming sessions in the Defence Academy pool from 23 May 2022.

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evertheless, thanks to a persistent committee, the team enjoyed a steady stream of friendly matches against other military teams, and steadily qualified for the final of the highly prestigious Army Rugby Union KO Tankard.

As is almost certainly the case with other DefAc team sports, DA RFC draws from a wide range of Shrivenham-based courses. This year has been no exception, bringing together members of the permanent staff, ACSC, ICSC(L), the ATO course, the Fuels course, BTC long language courses and more. Numbers at training have waivered through the season in line with the ebb and flow of the respective courses, the workload and the weather! Thanks to a hardcore of individuals from the ICSC(L) A course and ACSC, who were reinforced in the New Year

by ICSC(L) B, DA RFC always managed to field a team even if the team sheet was still in doubt on match day.

Friendly encounters against RAF Brize Norton, MOD Abbey Wood, Army HQ set up the DA RFC for a quarter final match against 27 Regt RLC. The match was hard fought, against a hard-hitting team.

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DA RFC set down an early marker but some strong running from 27 Regt RLC, comfortable with ball in hand, saw a three try surge in the second half. It took real grit and some deft game management to close the game out with DA RFC securing a 31-24 victory.

Success meant a semi final match against 36 Engr Regt. Superior organisation, a trusted rolling maul from anywhere inside the oppositions ’22, and some hard running lines ensured that DA RFC kept their noses in front throughout the match coming away with a well-earned 29-7 victory.

The final, as is traditional, was due to be held alongside other parallel ARU competitions at Aldershot on 11 May. Both DA RFC and fellow finalists, 1st Bn The Scots Guards, owing to course commitments and

Defense Academy

W (in the case of 1SG) PDT, were unable to field a team and requested a change to a mutually convenient date.

Sadly, this was not supported by the ARU and the final was instead played between MOD Abbey Wood and 36 Engr Regt, both of which DA RFC had beaten on their march to the final.

There remains one fixture in the calendar – the annual Lerwill Cup match against ACSC sister course at Ecole de Guerre. This fixture has not been held for the past few years due to CV19, but this year the Defence Academy will host this ‘international’ on Wed 8 June on the central rugby pitches. KO is at 1800 and there will be food, a bar and entertainment so please come along and support if you are able.

e will have exclusive access to the pool every Tuesday and Thursday, 0700-0800. All are very welcome to attend, and sessions will cater for all levels. We are a friendly and inclusive group, so please come along to see what we are about. We also cycle on Wednesday afternoons and share running session with the Defence Academy running club. Please use the QR code below to join the WhatsApp group and find out more!

SUMMER 2022

Shrivenham community news

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sided log wood burner for thecold cooler Spring wood burner the cooler summer sided burner forfor those winter along with twotwo dining rooms forfor nights along with two dining rooms for evenings along with dining rooms your gatherings, intimate evenings or for any sided log wood burner thecold cooler Spring sided burner for for those winter special celebration. nights along with twotwo dining rooms forfor evenings along with dining rooms your gatherings, intimate evenings or for any Overall we are a pub, so will not ‘stray away’ special from thecelebration. classic dishes you would expect to find in a traditional English pub. Our range Overall weand are traditional a pub, so will ‘stray away’ of Burgers pubnot classics, from the dishes you would expect to House Specials being along withclassic our Sunday Roasts are find in a traditional pub. range particularly popular.English However dueOur to housing Burgers Spanish and traditional pub classics, aoffantastic chef, we cannot refuse along with our Sunday Roasts are the opportunity to add some delicious particularly popular. due to housing Tapas options to our However Lunch and Dinner a fantastic Spanish weSocial cannot refuse Keep an eyechef, on our Menus.

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Shrivenham community news

Army Welfare Service Community Support

SHRIVENHAM SUMMER FOOTBALL ACADEMY 2022

Welcome to the Defence Academy Hockey Club (DAHC), we are a friendly club based at the defence academy We have regular training on a Monday night for all abilities, and can loan out equipment to support people getting into or returning to hockey. We also have a team that plays friendly fixtures against local league sides on a regular basis, as well as playing in hockey festivals and social nights. # Whatever your level of hockey, fitness or commitment you’ll find a fun, friendly and enjoyable standard of hockey at DAHC. For further details on how to join please contact Lt Col James Bishop 01793 788131 or Lt Nathan Hazledene RN 01793 788226.

Cost is £15 per person for 3 days

Mon 22nd - 24th August 2022 1000-1400hrs

Available to age ranges 5-10 years old - all abilities welcome

Contact your Community Development Worker Jayne Russell to register on Jayne.Russell133@mod.gov.uk

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SUMMER 2022

Shrivenham community news

The Defence Academy Clay Target Club

The Defence Academy Clay Target Club (DACTC) has emerged from Covid-19 afresh; and just in time for some better weather!

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he club is chaired by Tim Challoner and Peter Sharpe who runs operations and training; ably supported by a keen committee. The club has gone from strength to strength.

With a keen interest from the Battlespace Technology Course (BTC) and Intermediate Command and Staff College (Land) (ICSC(L)) over the last year, the club has been able to offer plenty of sporting opportunity. From Wednesday sports afternoon shooting to Sunday shoots to Clay Pigeon Shooting Association (CPSA) accredited courses.

The club is located on the Explosive Range Danger Area (ERDA) here on camp. It has over a dozen traps, caters for any experience level and can be SUMMER 2022

configured for any discipline.

Illustrative of the clubs capacity and willingness to deliver sporting opportunity to the Academy was the hosting of a dual-event competition for

ICSC(L) in February. Willing participants took part in a well organised and well executed day which started with a biathlon-style event, followed by a 25-bird competition. The club is established for the benefit of all personnel assigned to the Defence Academy, including friends and family.

As an example of what a day would cost you; demonstrative

If you would like more information; or to register your interest, please send an email to nairn.chisholm@ cranfield.ac.uk or peter.sharpe@modini.co.uk.

of excellent value for money, a 50-bird day currently costs £24: this includes provision of cartridges, PPE, club guns and mentoring by either the Range Safety Officers or Level 1/2 CPSA Instructors. A similar day, at an externally established grounds, would cost approx. £40-50. The mentoring and tuition, which would usually cost £85 an hour externally, is also free with DACTC! If Wednesdays are a ‘nogo’; the club also runs 2-3 Sundays a month and can offer opportunities outside these windows, i.e. a Friday afternoon (depending on interest and availability). As someone who has been part of the club for just over a year now; having followed through from BTC to ICSC(L), I fully implore any interested party to give DACTC a ‘shot.’

William ‘Nairn’ Chisholm

15

Shrivenham community news

The

Language Centre at Shrivenham Station

The Language Centre offers ‘English as a Foreign Language’ to the dependants and families of international officers attending courses at the Defence Academy. We also provide tuition in French, Spanish, German and Italian to families across the entire Shrivenham Station site and the local community.

• • • •

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.

The lessons are fun and sociable as we believe this is the best environment in which to learn.

In addition to improving your English, the classroom is a great place to make new friends and find out about other countries and their cultures.

welcome visiting students. Both group and private lessons are available to suit all abilities, from beginner through to advanced.

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

Workshops and Events

A

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invited to get in touch so that you can take part in these other activities.

by Tetiana and Nadiia

Summer Hopes and Dreams       

To travel to Portugal and Majorca To go to Ascot To dance at the Purple Ball To go to the seaside To go to Cornwall To visit more Harry Potter sites To watch a football match in a stadium

By Daniela, Gaëlle, Patrycja, Karla, Nadiia and Tetiana Intermediate 1 class

We have a Facebook group which you can join to keep up to date with what is happening: https://www. facebook.com/groups/ languagecentre2020to2021

©mjaud at Shutterstock.com

Even if you don’t join our English classes, you are

Sun shines Usually the days are hot My family enjoys it My days are very happy Evenings are so long Rain is warm

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.

Students can join our English classes at any time, and we

s well as the English and Foreign Language classes, we offer a variety of activities and workshops, which give our students and other visitors the chance to see more of life in the UK.

Summer Poem

©sonsart at Shutterstock.com

E

veryone who attends English lessons regularly can expect: to become more confident and fluent in spoken English to improve their listening skills to learn lots of new vocabulary to make considerable progress in their understanding of grammar

SUMMER 2022

Shrivenham community news

Easter Craft by Intermediate 1 class Last term we made Easter decorations using different techniques. We painted eggs with nail varnish and acrylic paint. We needle felted polystyrene eggs using special roving wool. We tried to colour some real eggs using natural methods. We boiled eggs with beetroot, onions and red cabbage. We blew the eggs and then we covered them with embroidery thread.

SUMMER 2022

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Shrivenham community news

Lunch at Beckett House

On a beautiful, sunny day in March, several ladies had a real treat when we went for lunch and a tour of Beckett House. Padre Robin gave us a great talk about several of the items in Beckett House with his own mixture of information and humour! Thank you, Robin. Charlena gave us a very detailed account of the background to the painting of the Indian visitors to the tomb of the Unknown Warrior.

'Your talk about this painting was wonderful. You brought it to life for us all - Thank you Charlena.'

The lunch was excellent, and the staff were wonderful.

'Claire everything was lovely, your staff were really friendly and helpful. The meal was delicious - please pass on our thanks to all concerned. Thank you for letting us come and hopefully we can come again before too long!'

'Just want to say a great big thank you to everyone concerned. We really enjoyed their time last Thursday.'

'A wonderful Ladies’ Lunch after 2 long years! Thank you DAFFYS for arranging a lovely afternoon!'

'Dear Daffys, Thank you for the photograph and for organising such a lovely ladies' lunch at Beckett House. I really enjoyed the delicious lunch and met some lovely ladies. One of the best events I’ve been to at the DA!'

All the ladies received a Daffys' slate coaster as a memento of the occasion.

Popcorn Club Our ever popular Popcorn club has been fully booked each time and the children have really enjoyed their tea in the Mess followed by a film, with a break for popcorn and a drink part way through.

Parents are very happy to sit and chat in the bar whilst they wait for their children!

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SUMMER 2022

International 'Bring A Dish'

The Jubilee Bring a Dish evening was a wonderful Shrivenham community news occasion for us to get together to share delicious food and have photos taken with Her Majesty!

Unfortunately, the children's Christmas party that should have happened last December, had to be cancelled because of Covid.

Very generously, the entertainer held over our booking fee, and we were able to reschedule the party for Friday 13th May. Even without the visit from Santa it was a great event with lots of very happy children, who were well entertained and well fed.

Thank you Magic Peter for coming back to Shrivenham and putting a smile on all our faces again.

Children's Party

DAFFYS supports all friends and families of the Defence Academy in getting together, building friendships and making the most of their time here in Shrivenham.

Organising a wide range of clubs, events and activities throughout the year, DAFFYS is an open and accessible organisation run by a local committee of volunteers and team of helpers. We are a friendly and informal bunch who are always happy to welcome new volunteers.

As always, we welcome your ideas and please look out for our future events which are advertised on our Daffys' Facebook page and by email (if you signed up to receive them from SUMMER 2022dadaffys@gmail.com).

Facebook: DAFFYS Email: dadaffys@gmail.com

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Shrivenham community news

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SUMMER 2022

Shrivenham community news

YOUR ADVENTURE BEGINS HERE… Co-educational Day and Boarding for children aged 3-13.

To find out more go to www.cheltenhamcollege.org

Building a Brighter Future: Brand New, State-of-the-Art Nursery School Opening in September Works are well underway at Cheltenham College Prep School to build a brand new, purpose-built Nursery School. Opening its doors in September 2022, the building has been designed to offer spacious modern classrooms and fantastic outside space to children aged between 3 and 5 years.

Designed by the award-winning Gloucester-based firm, Roberts Limbrick Architects, the Nursery School has eco-build status.

Cheltenham Nursery School will be nestled amongst the trees in the heart of the Cheltenham Prep site, giving pupils access to 75 acres of green space to explore during their Outdoor Learning sessions.

Head of Cheltenham Prep, Mr Tom O’Sullivan, said; “The new Nursery School is the beginning of the Cheltenham Prep journey for our youngest pupils. We are continuously striving to provide the best educational experience for our pupils, and this brilliant new building will provide the best possible start for their journey. We passionately believe that a happy child will be far more likely to fulfil their potential, and this amazing learning environment will certainly provide our youngest pupils with a safe and supportive, but also extraordinary and exciting, beginning to their school lives.

A Nursery School is about so much more than day care; it is an exciting, fun-filled start to school – a chance to create a love of learning and nurture inquisitive minds. Our expert early years practitioners and subject specialist teachers will ensure that your child cannot wait for their next day at Cheltenham Nursery School to begin.”

To find out more about Cheltenham Nursery School and to be amongst the first to receive updates, go to: www.cheltenhamcollege.org/nurseryschool.

SUMMER 2022

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Shrivenham community news

Padre Phil Writes...

What’s that shiny thing in the sky? It looks a bit like an orange, it’s warm, and it makes me want to get my floral shirt on and spend hours fighting in a queue in ASDA (other supermarkets are available) for the last remaining burger and bread roll, all so that I can have an impromptu BBQ. Oh, yes, I remember, it’s almost summer, and that’s the sun!

It’s been a while. deep loss of their friend, some guy named Jesus, who was put to death upon a cross by the religious leaders who didn’t really like him.

On Easter Sunday, Jesus rose from the pain and loss of death to the joy and hope of new life. Loss and joy were linked, forever. One helped an appreciation of the other. You cannot have the hope of the sunrise if there is not the uncertainty of the sunset.

A

t times, it’s often hard to remember what the sun looks like, especially for a boy from the West Coast of Scotland. Until I was 16, I assumed that the sky in every country, in every nation, and in every corner of the world was a similar ‘Scottish Grey’ (that should be a recognised colour in the Dulux paint scheme). In Scots, we called the weather ‘dreich’, which means what it says- dull and gloomy.

Trying to remember is a funny thing, isn’t it? Can you remember what you were doing last summer? How about last week?

How about what you ate for lunch yesterday? We don’t always remember things, especially if we don’t think it’s important.

Joy and loss are constant companions on the road of life.

Whatever joy you are going through in life, as your chaplain, let me celebrate with you, through christenings, renewal of wedding vows, or child blessings/naming ceremonies.

The Haven The Haven, reflection space, open from Tue 24 May, during normal working hours (Building 43, Chaplaincy Centre, Car Park A, Opposite Kitchener Hall).

Have you found that life is often busy, stressful, and overwhelming? Sometimes it can feel like we are running on the treadmill of existence, and the only thing we are achieving is making ourselves more and more exhausted.

And whatever loss you are going through in life, let me remember with you those who are no longer among us, and those who have been lost along the way.

For many of us, being able to take time for ourselves slips far down our list of priorities. But taking time for ourselves is so important, and is absolutely vital for our own wellbeing. If we do not look after ourselves, it’s not just us who begins to suffer.

It is my duty, my calling, and my passion, as your station padre, to walk with you, rejoice with you, and cry with you, through the rollercoaster of life.

If you are looking to find a precious moment of peace, calm, and tranquillity in your day, even for 5 minutes, then come to The Haven.

The Haven is a new chaplaincy initiative. It is a quiet space, where all are welcome to sit and enjoy the best free refreshments in the West.

While experiencing the peace, why not enjoy a book, assemble a jigsaw, try knitting or adult colouring, or switch off through mindfulness. If that’s not enough, then spend some time getting lost in your own world by building some LEGO. The Haven is open to all during the working day, and you are welcome to stay for as long as you need.

For more info, please contact the Station Chaplaincy Team: Padre Phil Craven, 07977479866, Philip. craven101@mod.gov.uk Chaplaincy Coordinator, Leigh Hyde,07920162664, leigh.hyde@da.mod.uk

Padre Phil Craven The Station Chaplaincy Team

70 years ago, the young Princess Elizabeth became Queen. But her coronation as Queen, which was a day of great celebration and happiness for so many, only came about because her father died.

Her joy, came at a cost. And that was a deep, painful, and lasting cost that our Queen continues to live with. Sadly, that’s like life. Joy often comes with a cost.

Padre Philip Craven Academy Station Chaplain Mobile: 07977479866 Office: 01793 314161 Email: philip.craven@da.mod.uk MODNET: philip.craven101@mod.gov.uk

Leigh Hyde Station Chaplaincy Coordinator Mobile: 07920162664 Office: 01793 314033 Email: leigh.hyde@da.mod.uk MODNET: leigh.hyde207@mod.gov.uk

2000 years ago, a bunch of folks gathered in a room, feeling the 22

SUMMER 2022

Shrivenham community news

SHRIVENHAM STATION

Dress Code Smart, Casual

Meet & Greet and Athletics Union Fair 2022 Wednesday 21st September 1400 - 1730 Starting in the Forum of the Cormorant Building A wonderful opportuinity for you and the whole family to come and see what the Academy and Station has to offer!

Everyone is welcome, both newcomers and those who have been here a while. Come and see the wide range of supporting agencies, clubs, groups, sports and art opportunities available - it’s your chance to join in and get involved in anything that you fancy.

For any enquiries please contact the Families & Welfare Office

samantha.davies@da.mod.uk or call 01793 780793 For any Athletics Union enquiries please contact the AU Secretary

Maj Victoria Deakin on: Victoria.Deakin@da.mod.uk

Rugby | Hockey | Chaplaincy | Sailing | Conservation | Orienteering | Fencing | Swimming | Tennis | Triathlon | Running | Cricket Clay Shooting | Cycling | Squash | Football | Mountaineering | Martial Arts | Homestart | Golf | Academy Quilters | Language Centre Aerobics | Army Welfare Service | Brownies and Scouts | Academy Players | DAFFYs 2204-3880 / SERCO MEDIA SERVICES 01793 785450

SUMMER 2022

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Shrivenham community news

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SUMMER 2022

Shrivenham community news

RALLY FOR HEROES PREPARES FOR ‘THE FINAL RUN’ IN AUGUST 2022 The well-known motoring event, Rally for Heroes, has announced its final European rally event after supporting SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity for the last eight years.

R

ally for Heroes has raised over £470,000 for SSAFA since 2014 and hopes that their last rally won’t disappoint, with the aim to raise another £140,000 for the UK’s oldest national tri-service military charity.

The rally will begin on Wednesday 10 August at Dover Castle and will finish in Paris with every five miles covered representing the life of a serviceman or woman who died during the Afghanistan conflict. This means a total round trip of 3,000-miles travelling across Europe through countries such as Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, and finally France, with 120 fundraising participants in 60 cars.

Mick Clark, Organiser for Rally for Heroes said,

“We have held a memorial on every trip remembering all those who lost their lives in Afghanistan, which acts as a poignant reminder to us all why we’re there”.

Earlier this year, SSAFA were invited to attend ‘The Silver Gathering’ at Silverstone racetrack where RALLY FOR HEROES supporters enjoyed presentations from various members of the SSAFA team; Sir Andrew Gregory, SSAFA’s CEO who talked about how their support was so vital to SSAFA’s work.

Also present was Lisa Shattock, Director of

Marketing Communications and Lizzie Rossiter, Senior Events Officer, who explained how the RALLY FOR HEROES teams would be supported in their awareness and fundraising activities. In addition, the RALLY FOR HEROES participants heard the emotional story from Gina Allsop, a SSAFA beneficiary, about how she was helped by the Charity and the difference that their financial contributions would make to so many lives.

Lisa Shattock, SSAFA’s Director of Marketing Communications said,

‘Whilst the weather at Silverstone was wet and windy, this didn’t dampen SUMMER 2022

the enthusiasm of this fantastic group of RALLY FOR HEROES fundraisers.

This European rally was originally due to take place in August 2020, due to Covid it’s been postponed several times, they are so motivated and passionate, not only for their amazing Rally cars and this unique event, but also committed to raising awareness and funds for SSAFA. We really are truly overwhelmed by their support and look forward to helping them to smash their target of £140,000 this year!’

For more information visit rallyforheroes.com

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Shrivenham community news

1 3

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SUMMER 2022

Shrivenham community news

TAKE COMMAND OF YOUR CAREER You don’t have to be a civilian to gain civilian qualifications. With more than 200 qualifications and 400 modules to choose from, and the flexibility to study from anywhere in the world, the OU can improve your knowledge, progress your career and fill your downtime.

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SUMMER 2022

27

Shrivenham community news

Husband said we are going "toMyShrivenham and they have a quilting group! Man, that group turned out to be my salvation during our posting there. I thoroughly enjoyed my time learning to use a sewing machine, a skill I have since put to good use in my own new little business. So proud of myself, considering my Home Ed teacher said I was useless at sewing and should consider doing brick laying. How wrong she was. Heather, my quilt teacher was patient, excellent at guiding me through all the stages of making my quilt, took the time to support me with after class cyber sessions, often late at night too. I hope we get posted back to Shrivenham and you can certainly be sure that my first signing up will be with The Academy Quilters, I have a lot to thank them for.

E.B.

"

I made a quilt, in fact. I had made "several.

Something I thought I

28 28

"

husband laughed when "I My said I wanted to join The Academy Quilters. He knew I couldn’t sew for a toffee……I knew I couldn’t sew but I wanted to make a quilt. I wanted to be doing something that would keep my brain cells active but more importantly, I wanted not to be feeling lonely in a foreign country. When he saw I was so determined about this, he relented and allowed me to go.

Something he has cause now to feel very pleased about. Not only did I learn to make quilts and other things but I was happy beyond my dreams, I was gently, quietly guided and supported throughout the whole process, made friends and I absolutely loved my tutor she was brilliant.

Somehow she made time for us all, helped us all follow our own particular path and for me, she gave me back my confidence in myself and was my “go to”person when homesickness threatened to overwhelm me. She taught me I COULD do sew, I COULD cope and because of that, I had a happy husband who did well on his course. I now have started my own quilting group thanks to that lovely quietly caring and supportive tutor and her husband. . .he made sure we all had breaks, could choose what to drink and he even bought us our favourite biscuits. What an amazing couple, thank you to

The Academy Quilters for all that you did for me and my husband.

Christa J.

"

I am yet another previous "Academy Quilter who has rediscovered herself through quilting while at the Defence Academy. Just hang on in there a moment while I take you back to the old me. In fact, the old me at school. Got sent home from High school with a note from teacher asking, no, begging my parents to pleeeese place me in another study group, anything other than her sewing and dressmaking one. Parents did the "rolling of eyes" again and sort of gave up and let me muddle through High School as best I could.

So, why would I want to join the quilting group at Shrivehham then? Phoned the tutor, she let me ramble on, telling her of all the things I couldn't do, then she said, "I like a challenge, give me the chance to prove to you, that you can do this". I went, I made mistakes, believe me, some were mega, well to me anyway, tutor did not seem a bit fazed, things like shortening my needle (read breaking), getting the machine to eat my fabric (read not putting my foot down and holding my tails) and cutting off the wrong ears! Freaked my man out when I texted him and said I had cut off the ears, his instant reply was " oh geez, I'm coming to get you, what the blazes have you done now". We laugh about it now but it was all part of the funny English terms used in patchwork. Oh boy, did they have some funny phrases.

I have a tremendous amount to thank The Academy Quilters for, the rediscovery of myself, the oh so happy time at Shrivenham and the confidence to do the job I do and love now. If you are reading this and wondering

whether to go to quilting with The Academy Quilters, do it, don't hesitate, your time at Shrivenham will be short and precious. Oh, my job? I teach patchwork in a shop in my local Mall and I am so proud and happy, thank you Academy Quilters for your gift of caring and patience.

J. P. Roules.

Repurposing pre loved cotton shirts, recording memories in textiles, a striking combination of shirts resulted in this Spool block. Destined for a cushion front to be hugged when moments of "missing you" descend and you need comfort.

Playing with colour and learning that to resize a block is not a scary procedure but a whole load of fun.

Little bags ......a quilter can never have too many little bags. These make super little gifts.

Beautifully hand quilted Bee, drafted from motif within fabric used in this quilt.

SUMMER 2022 2022 SUMMER

©Marek Tr at Shutterstock.com

would never be writing. What a wonderful learning journey that turned out to be. Let’s start at the beginning…we got an overseas posting, our first and I was nervous and anxious. Leaving my family was not a prospect I was looking forward to. My English language was not much either.

Not long after arriving at the Defence Academy, and getting settled into our new home, someone kindly put a magazine through my door. Didn’t read it straight away, I felt lonely and not inclined to meet with anyone.

My husband, later that evening, was looking through it and noticed some pictures with quilts and cushions from the group called Academy Quilters. We looked and read through the writing. . . somehow it sparked an upturn in my feelings. Contacted the quilt lady, turned out me not speaking or understanding much

English, just did not matter and my life turned around…what fun I had learning to sew a quilt. That quilt is my treasured holder of memories of the quilting group, the other quilters and has given me a purpose and a skill. Huge thanks to Hedda and Michael for all their care, they became my quilting parents during our posting, they were balm for my soul and mind.

Elena W.

Shrivenham community news

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.

English paper piecing technique used for the hexagon panels, a wonderful sight to see. Quilt top basted ( the long visible stitches) so that further hand quilting could be done. This patient, gentle quilter has hand quilted the whole quilt, designing motifs ( the Bee) and outlining many of the features within the panels.

Drafting quilt blocks, cutting carefully resulting in quilt blocks to be proud of.

Exquisitely tiny, neat stitches, all done while travelling. Such a lovely portable project to be doing.

Delightful beach houses, carefully cut, placed and appliquéd onto a wonderfully soft vintage red background. Attention to detail has made this creation rather a special one.

Creating a memory through textiles and of course, there had to be sheep, 4 now but the flock gets bigger each session.

It seems playing with fabrics, number crunching and making a success of each quilt block, is way more fun than housework.

Learning to go slowly and enjoying seeing your quilt grow, row by row.

Placing colours and cutting triangles, just two steps towards what will be a beautiful quilt.

A new generation starting to learn how to use a sewing machine. Under her Mother's supervision, this sweet new quilter successfully completed her very first quilt.

SUMMER 2022 2022 SUMMER

Starting a quilt journey by recording memories with pre loved clothes. Really looking forward to seeing this quilt reach it's topping out stage.

T

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, 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.

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 0730 - 1600hrs Monday to Thursday and 0730 1200hrs Friday.

The Soft Play Areas are open 0830 - 1515hrs Monday to Thursday and 0830 1200hrs Friday.

The Coffee Shop is open 0930 1400hrs Monday to Thursday and 0930 - 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!

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.

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Shrivenham community news

Meeting with lots of lovely ladies in a melting pot of different cultural and social backgrounds is great. Choir is my feel good moment’’

Military Wives Choir

3. Singing increases lung function:

In a week where the 2022 theme for Mental Health Awareness is ‘loneliness’, the Defence Academy Military Wives Choir discuss the emotional and physical health benefits of singing in the Choir.

I

t’s no secret that for many of us, recent world events have taken their toll on our mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Lockdowns have made us feel isolated and lonely and the daily news can lead to increased levels of worry and anxiety. In a military environment where we are regularly posted to new places, we are often removed from our usual support networks of family and friends, so feelings of isolation, loneliness and anxiety can be even more acute.

But have you considered singing and/or joining the Choir?

On a serious note, the powerful benefits of singing are not to be underestimated. Choral singing contributes to a positive mood, promotes relationships and engagement with others and can even bring a strong sense of accomplishment.

In the words of Rebecca, one of our newer members: ‘’The

Military Wives Choir is more than just singing for me. It’s friendship, council and fun which does wonders for my mental health….No matter where the military takes us, I know there will be a group of women waiting with open arms to welcome me.’’

Feeling tempted?

Well, let’s look in more detail at five key reasons why singing is good for your health and mental wellbeing. . .

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1. Choral singing builds an immediate sense of community: Singing is a fantastic communal activity and singing with other people, whether in the flesh or online can help build connections and feelings of togetherness. Recent research has shown that the synchronizing of voices is a great way to fast track social bonding.

Not only is there pleasure to be found in sharing an interest, you will always have something in common to talk about. But don’t take our word for it. We asked our choir members what they thought…

Bex says;’’ I love singing and

I love singing with others even more! When we’ve ‘got’ a song, hearing those harmonies and the sound is just amazing…..DAMWC is a really friendly, welcoming choir and we are very lucky to have a brilliant MD, accompanist and a very hard working committee.

Everyone looks out for each other and the choir definitely epitomises the ‘sing, share, support’ choir motto.’’

Charlie agrees: ‘’I’ve been here only a week and I’ve already got my first gig! I’ve been welcomed into my section like being drawn into a big hug, the support and encouragement so far has been brilliant.’’

The way singing requires you to breathe makes you do just that.

You increase your lung capacity as well as engaging your muscles around the rib cage and core.

Singing also introduces more oxygen into the blood leading to better circulation and a better mood.

4. Singing helps you relax

2. Singing makes you feel better: There’s an increasing amount of evidence that singing releases endorphins ‘the happy chemicals’ that boost your mood and make you feel good about yourself.

Scientists believe that’s one of the reasons people report being on a ‘high’ during choir sessions and continue to feel positive, motivated and uplifted afterwards.

Emma says: ‘’I’m not going to lie…sometimes it’s a struggle to get out to a rehearsal, especially in the dark, winter nights when it’s cold and miserable, but when I make the effort to go, I never regret it. It’s such a boost. Choir meetings leave me buzzing and positively wired! I literally find myself skipping home and I can’t stop singing and humming the tunes over and over…’’

As well as benefitting the lungs, controlled breathing is good for releasing anxiety and helping us to feel more relaxed. If you’ve had a bad day, try having a good old sing song! We promise the stress busting properties will help you forget your worries as you become present and engaged in the music and the moment.

Bex says: ‘’Being in the choir means I get to do something for me which makes me happy, which, when you are a military spouse and a busy working Mum, is really needed.’’

5.Singing helps improve memory and mental capacity Research has shown that singing can also help improve mental alertness, memory and concentration as it requires you to

Rebecca says: ‘’At the end of the

day being a midwife and Mum, which are both rewarding and challenging, I sometimes don’t feel like socialising or singing, but I know mentally it’s so good for me and it always lifts my spirits and confidence once I’ve been. Choir creates memories and friends for a lifetime and a confidence that lasts forever.’’

Evelyne: ‘’Singing together makes me feel happy….

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Shrivenham community news focus on several things at once.

This apparently engages and stimulates the brain in the process.

Ruth says: ‘’I have a greater

feeling of happiness and peace when I’m singing and I think it relaxes me and frees my brain to remember more.’’

So have we convinced you of the health benefits of singing yet? Why not see for yourself? Come join us and give our amazing choir a go! The MWC is for wives 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 musical experience is required. For further information please contact us at defenceacademy@ militarywiveschoirs.org The DAMWC is currently 35 strong and we are growing!

We are a lively group and meet on Mondays between 10.30-12.00 at the Jubilee Community Centre, and Thursdays between 19.3021.30 at St. Alban’s Church. We have a busy programme ahead of us including The Memoria Falklands 40 year anniversary celebration, The Queen’s Jubilee Picnic at Becket House, The Queen’s Jubilee Beacon Lighting at Whitehorse Hill, Anniversary concert at St Alban’s cathedral celebrating 10 years of the MWC.

Countess of Wessex

Opens Royal Army Chaplains’ Museum Her Royal Highness Sophie, Countess of Wessex, whose great uncle won the Victoria Cross as a padre in World War One, officially opened the new Royal Army Chaplains’ Museum, at Shrivenham, on 17 May.

D

uring a tour of the museum, The Countess was shown an exhibit dedicated to her great uncle, Noel Mellish, who was awarded the VC for his actions in rescuing wounded soldiers from no-man's land in Belgium, in 1916. Three soldiers were killed while he treated their wounds but he saved more than 20 lives.

The Countess was welcomed to the museum by the Revd David Barrett, Deputy Chaplain General, with Air Marshal Ian Gale, Director General Joint Force Development & Defence Academy; Wing Commander Leonie Boyd, Shrivenham Station Commander; and Canon Professor Michael Snape, the official historian whose research is reflected in the exhibitions. The Lord Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, Mrs Marjorie Glasgow, was among the visiting party.

Revd Andrew Totten, Project Leader Royal Army Chaplains' Museum, guided The Countess through the exhibits and displays of wartime religious artefacts, which show the work of chaplains in supporting the Armed Forces in conflicts across the centuries to the present day. The Countess spoke with five serving chaplains representing three Christian denominations and the Sikh and Jewish faiths, and with the Museum’s trustees and benefactors.

After unveiling a commemorative plaque in the

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museum, which is located near the Beckett Gate at Shrivenham Station, The Countess was invited to plant a small tree outside the new building as part of The Queen’s Green Canopy initiative. The small tree has been grown from a seed of a tree that was originally planted

by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother during a visit to the Defence Academy in June 1964.

Revd Barrett said:

“I am delighted to see the opening of the Royal Army Chaplains’ Museum. It tells a powerful and moving story about the value and place of faith in the military community, not only in the past but right up to the present day. I hope the museum will be widely visited by those who are serving today, as well as by veterans and the wider public.”

The museum seeks to promote public understanding of the place and value of religion and belief in the military and to play a full part in Shrivenham Station life by hosting visitors to both the Defence Academy and the Armed Forces Chaplaincy Centre. Although an Army museum, it portrays Faith in the Forces for all branches of the military.

Entry to the museum is free and will be open to visitors for the first time on Thursday 19 May from 13.30-17.00hrs.

Usual opening times will be Monday to Friday from 13.30-17.00 (closed between Christmas and New Year, Bank Holidays and early August). Group bookings at other times are possible.

Visitors to the museum will be able to:

• See how clergy have

accompanied the Army in times of war and peace.

• Hear how padres have

guided and cared for the troops.

• Explore how, during difficult

times, soldiers have wrestled with religion and belief.

• Remember and reflect on

the biggest issues of life in the military.

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Shrivenham community news

VIVO the new Housing Maintenance provider for the South East and South West.

The National Housing Prime (NHP) contract, which provided management and maintenance services for SFA was replaced on 1 April 2022 by the Future Defence Infrastructure Services (FDIS) contracts.

T

he FDIS Accommodation contracts worth £650m will deliver safe, compliant, and good quality housing which meets the needs and expectations of Service personnel and their families.

Previously all aspects of the contract were managed by Amey; now there is one National Accommodation Management Services (NAMS) contract which has been awarded to Pinnacle who will act as a single point of contact for all customer requests, such as scheduling appointments for repairs, move-ins, and move-outs.

There are also four Regional Accommodation Maintenance Services (RAMS) contracts will provide repair and maintenance services needed to ensure the SFA estate is maintained to the required standards and SFA are

available for occupation by Service families when allocated in the South East and South West these will be managed

by VIVO and in the North and Central regions these will continued to be managed

by Amey. It will be these contractors who will carry out approved improvement works to homes as well. Hopefully by now you will have seen VIVO in Shrivenham, and you may have even had them visit you at your home to complete a repair. There have been some challenges in the first few weeks and James Forrester, Operations Director, shares some of the detail “VIVO are delighted to be delivering these services to improve the lived experience for Service Personnel and their Families. We always knew there

Vale Garage

would be some challenges but there have been more than we expected. As some of you may be aware because you had raised a job with Amey, but VIVO were given on the 1st April 7,500 jobs to complete. These were repairs that Amey were unable to complete before the 1st April and therefore we have had a dedicated team contacting families via phone, email and letter to book appointments and get these completed. In the majority of cases everyone should have now had at least a phone contact and we are aiming to have these repairs completed in the next few weeks. If you do not believe you have been contacted and have outstanding repairs, please call Pinnacle to raise these.

Alongside this we also inherited a large number of complaints that were raised by Amey that we are now investigating and reaching out to families to resolve. Whilst these two aspects have been a challenge, we also encountered an issue we hoped we wouldn’t with the IT system.

Unfortunately for a period of 11 days Pinnacle were raising jobs with appointments but these were not showing on our system.

Once this was identified it was quickly resolved and we have automatically compensated every family that was affected by a missed appointment and new ones have been made. Despite all of this we are optimistic for the future and have been receiving good feedback from stakeholders including the Families Federations.

There are improvements we need to make, and we have plans in place to do this. A large proportion of the insight we have gained has been from our feedback surveys. Each time one of our operatives comes to your home you will receive a text message with a link to a survey that takes less than 20 seconds to complete. You are asked to rate, on a scale of 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent) the operative on their punctuality, quality, and behaviours. Where an operative receives all 5’s their manager will give them a call to say thank you but where they score 2 or below, we will investigate with the operative what stopped them from delivering the service they are expected. We will then guide them on how to improve or implement changes to processes that will allow them to deliver the service without challenges.

We will continue to monitor these and use this a primary focus for our improvement plans.

We appreciate the transition has not been as smooth in some areas as we would have liked but we hope that you will see improvements over the coming weeks and months.”

You can find out more information about the contracts at www. pinnacleservicefamilies.co.uk and you can contact them to raise a repair or ask anything else about your home by calling 0800 031 8628.

To advertise in this publication please contact Jayne on 01536 334219

Vale Garage Service Centre offers MOT testing, repairs, servicing and diagnostics. We do anything from tyres to brakes, batteries and exhausts.

Vale Garage car and van sales is an independent retailer supplying low milage used cars and vans in the local area of Oxforshire, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and Berkshire.

For vehicles outside the manufacturers warranty we offer a fully comprehensive warranty. All vehicles are serviced up to date when sold.

Service telephone: 01367 710 777 Sales telephone: 01367 710 100 Forecourt Location: Vale Garage, Faringdon Road, Stanford in the Vale, nr Faringdon, Oxfordshire SN7 8NN. Email: valegarage@hotmail.co.uk Website: www.valegarage.com

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Shrivenham community news

Military families often have limited choices whether it is the allocation of a military quarter or hiring, the area in which they live, and the schools their children attend.

There are many wonderful things to experience being part of a military family but constantly uprooting your family home and changing schools for your children is not one of them.

If you choose to live married accompanied, it can come at a cost. You often hear of Forces children who have attended multiple schools, for some this is manageable, for others not so. There will be many different reasons you may have to consider boarding school, you may aspire for your children to achieve their academic

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potential, you may want to nurture an existing talent or sporting ability, you may be worried about the effect moving schools might have on their mental wellbeing, or you may have discovered the amazing opportunities a boarding education can offer by allowing children to experience a wealth of new experiences.

There is no perfect path for Forces families to follow, we all make decisions based on what is the best for our own families, for some moving schools with every posting works, but for others a boarding school can be a positive, life changing experience.

Anderson Education are an Educational Consultancy

with over twenty years’ experience and knowledge of UK boarding schools, we offer FREE & IMPARTIAL advice, and we would love to help you on your journey to find the right school. As a mother and wife of a serving soldier I know first-hand what a challenging decision this can be, whether you are simply considering boarding school as an option or have made up your mind, we are here to help you.

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Shrivenham community news

Useful Contacts Community Services Maj Ed Bell Shrivenham Station Welfare Officer

Clubs & Organisations 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

Scouts

01793 780793

Military Provost Guard Service (MPGS)

01793 785612 785617

Jayne Russell 07779973446 Community Development Jayne.Russell133@mod.gov.uk Worker 01793 314161/ Mobile 07977 479866 Email: Philip.craven@da.mod.uk

Leigh Hyde, 01793 314033 /mobile: 07920162664 Chaplaincy Coordinator leigh.hyde@da.mod.uk

Medical Services Shrivenham Station Medical Centre Shrivenham Station Dental Centre Elm Tree Surgery, Shrivenham Village Health Visitors 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

34

cn@wands.org.uk www.kascouts.org.uk/wands

Defence Academy Golf Club

Miss Samantha Davies Families and Welfare Lead Admin

Padre Phil Craven

dadaffys@gmail.com

01793 785552 01793 785223 01793 782207 01793 783724 01367 242407 01367 242388 01793 762218 01793 604020 01865 741166 01793 762231 01367 240514 01793 783336 01793 522483

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 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

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Shrivenham community news

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THE LIMITED EDITION DAMBUSTER

11-15 Wood Street, Old Town, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN1 4AN | 01793 522072/527530 swindon@deacons-jewellers.com | www.deacons-jewellers.com Item featured subject to stock availability