Absolutely West Essex September 2024

WEST ESSEX

West Essex

SEPTEMBER 2024 / £3.95

PLU S

SPECIA L News and views from the county's best schools

STYLE SISTERS

The Essex duo on a new home product range

• HISTORIC FINDS

SEPTEMBER 2024

Heritage venues with a twist

aa

• QUITE THE STORY

Visiting Essex's hottest family destination

Starring

ABSOLUTELYMAGAZINES.COM

ROLE

SUPERMODEL ANNA CLEVELAND UNVEILS TISSA FONTANEDA'S AW24 LOOKS AT ICON IN BUCKHURST HILL

Cover with spine.indd All Pages

ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGA NT 21/08/2024 11:31

YOUR DREAM POOL AWAITS...

AD ORIGIN POOLS.indd 2 24 .indd 1 ABSOLUTELY ad September

21/08/2024 11:31

ORIGIN POOLS BUILDING AWARD WINNING POOLS FOR OVER 40 YEARS

AT ORIGIN WE DO IT ALL FROM CONCEPT TO COMPLETION

AD ORIGIN POOLS.indd 3

21/08/2024 16/08/2024 11:31 12:34

@doctornyla | 0162|552 0162 3307 552|3307 0800|009 0800 6661 009|6661 www.doctornyla.com | www.doctornyla.com Follow Follow us on us on@doctornyla UK CLINIC UK CLINIC OF THEOF YEAR THE2019 YEARTO 2019 2020 TOSAFETY 2020 SAFETY IN BEAUTY IN BEAUTY AWARDS AWARDS

AD DR NYLA.indd 4

21/08/2024 11:31

EXPERTS EXPERTSININ THE THE NATURAL NATURALLOOK LOOK Doctor Nyla Doctor is aNyla skinisspecialist, a skin specialist, trusted by trusted TV personalities,

by TV personalities, well-known well-known celebritycelebrity figures figures and some andofsome Britain’s of Britain’s most familiar most familiar faces infaces the media in the industry. media industry.

FounderFounder and Medical and Medical DirectorDirector of Doctor of Nyla Doctor Medispa Nyla Medispa Cheshire Cheshire is a highly is arespected highly respected and much andsought much after sought after cosmetic cosmetic Dermatology Dermatology GP andGP is considered and is considered one of the one top of the cosmetic top cosmetic doctorsdoctors in the in the country.country.

Having Having practised practised medicine medicine for overfor 20over years20and years having and personally having personally delivered delivered over 200,000 over 200,000 treatments treatments with truly with exceptional truly exceptional results, she results, has she gained has the gained admiration the admiration of of the industry. the industry.

TM TM TRANSFORMATION TRANSFORMATION FACELIFT FACELIFT

TM The Transformation The Transformation Facelift TM Facelift is a bespoke is a bespoke treatment treatment from Doctor from Nyla, Doctorunique Nyla, unique to her to her clinics and clinics combining and combining a varietyaof variety incredible of incredible anti-ageing anti-ageing treatments treatments to maketo you make lookyou andlook and feel 10 years feel 10younger years younger in the space in theofspace only six of only weeks! six The weeks! nextThe generation, next generation, multiplatform multiplatform transformational transformational facial offered facial exclusively offered exclusively at Dr Nyla. at Dr This Nyla. treatment This treatment offers non-surgical offers non-surgical skin skin tightening tightening and lifting andtolifting treat to all treat anti-ageing all anti-ageing concernsconcerns – from textured, – from textured, dull skin,dull to skin, deepto deep wrinkleswrinkles and lossand of laxity. loss of laxity.

Please Please scan QR scan code QRtocode booktocomplimentary book complimentary consultation consultation Medispa Medispa MayfairMayfair : 32 Dover : 32 Street, Dover Street, Mayfair, Mayfair, LondonLondon W1S 4NE W1S 4NE UK CLINIC UK CLINIC OF THEOF YEAR THE2019 YEARTO 2019 2020 TOSAFETY 2020 SAFETY IN BEAUTY IN BEAUTY AWARDS AWARDS

AD DR NYLA.indd 5

21/08/2024 11:31

EDITOR MARK KEBBLE ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA SENIOR DESIGNERS MIKE ROBERTS SUZETTE SCOBLE MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER CARMEN GRAHAM DESIGNER MARIANA SUZUKI PRODUCTION MANAGER DANICA BRODIE GROUP SALES MANAGER - SOUTH ABIGAIL GARDNER MEDIA CONSULTANTS CLAIRE YATES FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTORS CRAIG DAVIES JAMES FUSCHILLO NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT For editorial enquiries please email: mark@zest-media.com or please call 07861 994764 or email: claire@zest-media.com

124 City Road, London, EC1V 2NX, London N1 7EU; 020 7704 0588 Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors.

We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters.

All rights reserved.

Social icon

Circle Only use blue and/or white.

For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

Fo l l ow Us O n Fa c e b o o k @ABSOLUTELYESSEX @ABSOLUTELYWESTESSEX T wi t t e r @ESSEXABSOLUTELY @ABSOLUTELYWESTE In s t a g ra m @ABSOLUTELYESSEX @ABSOLUTELYWESTESSEX We b si t e

a b s o l u t e l y m a ga z i n e s . c o m

FLANNEL.indd 6

21/08/2024 11:31

ABSOLUTELY

Contents SEPTEMBER 2024

54

38 32

14

C U LT U R E AGENDA

Top comedy acts head to Essex

16

STYLE SISTERS

On launching a new homeware collection

INTERIORS 54 KATE WATSON-SMYTH The acclaimed interiors writer on being inspired by Italy

59 TREND

Blue Monday? Why every day should be blue in the home

20 TOP 10...

Unexpected historical finds

FOOD & DRINK 32 FOOD NEWS Tasty bites from across Essex

35 AFTERNOON TEA

Memorable days out in the capital

FA S H I O N 38 THE SHOOT

A superstar launch in Buckhurst Hill

43 JEWELLERY

Regal-inspired gems

61

5 OF THE BEST...

Kitchen kit to buy

E D U C AT I O N S P E C I A L 66 TALKING HEAD Saint Nicholas School's Terence Ayres on how pupils grow up with them

A B S O L U T E LY M AG A Z I N E S .C O M The online guide to inspirational living and what's on in Essex

70 MALVERN ST JAMES On the many benefits of running an all-girls' school

77 SPORTING CHANCE Action packed schooldays

O N T H E C OV E R Anna Cleveland models Tissa Fontaneda (tissafontaneda.com)

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

CONTENTS.indd 7

7

21/08/2024 11:31

THREE NIGHT CHRISTMAS BREAKS Join us from 24th – 27th December for a Christmas to remember.

FROM

FROM

995

660

£

£

per person

per person

TALBOOTH HOUSE & SPA

THE PIER

Enjoy a bottle of Champagne in your room on arrival, followed by dinner at Talbooth Restaurant on Christmas Eve.

Experience Christmas by the sea with a cream tea, bottle of Champagne and three-course dinner on Christmas Eve.

Wake up Christmas morning with breakfast in your room, followed by champagne, canapés and a four-course lunch at Talbooth Restaurant. Coffee and light food is available in the evening. Enjoy breakfast in your room or at milsoms on Boxing Day with dinner at Talbooth Restaurant, before checking-out on 27th December.

Christmas Day starts with a full breakfast, before champagne, canapés, a four-course lunch and supper in the evening. On Boxing Day, enjoy breakfast, a three-course lunch at milsoms or The Pier, and dinner at Talbooth Restaurant or an evening buffet at The Pier. You’ll depart after breakfast on 27th December.

TO BOOK CALL 01206 322367

TO BOOK CALL 01255 241212

FROM

FROM

660

660

£

£

per person

per person

MILSOMS KESGRAVE HALL

MILSOMS

Arrive in time for a cream tea on Christmas Eve and enjoy a bottle of champagne in your room and three-course dinner in the restaurant.

Arrive Christmas Eve to a bottle of champagne in your room and a three-course dinner with coffee.

Start Christmas Day with full breakfast in your room, before a four-course Christmas lunch after champagne and canapés.

There will also be a Christmas night supper. Wake up the next day with full breakfast, a three-course lunch or dinner and depart after breakfast on 27th December.

Christmas Day starts with full breakfast in your room, before champagne, canapés and a four-course lunch in the restaurant, followed by an evening supper. Boxing Day includes breakfast and the choice of lunch at milsoms or dinner at Talbooth Restaurant.

TO BOOK CALL 01473 333741

TO BOOK CALL 01206 322795

AD MILSOM.indd 8

21/08/2024 11:31

Editor’s

LETTER ABSOLUTELY’S September issue highlights

I

1

Style Sisters

used to scoff when being told school would be the best days of my life, especially when my dear mum was once again trying to get me out of bed and on the bus in good time.

But even though I love my life and career right now, I look back and have to admit that, yes, those wise people were right.

I went to a local grammar school and struggled for the first three years there. I say struggle, basically I was just a lazy student, doing the minimal work to get by till the bell went and I could get back on the football pitch. I shudder when I think back to my assertion that 'footballer' was my desired career choice.

Then something happened. I suddenly had an insatiable desire to learn and a steely determination to prove some teachers wrong, who understandably doubted me around Year 9. I went on to achieve decent grades, discovered a route into journalism and here we are. But I think the biggest thing I take away from my schooldays are my lifelong friends – we meet up every month and still reminisce about days at Wallington County Grammar School.

Anyway, I hope this ramble is a nice introduction to our education special this month, where we visit the schools and talk to the teachers who have one aim: to offer an education to remember.

5

The Shoot

Anna Cleveland x Tissa Fontaneda (p38)

4 Jewellery Regal-inspired gems (p43)

MARK KEBBLE EDITOR

Essex's home queens launch a new collection (p16)

2

Education Special

Visiting our top schools (p65)

EDS LETTER.indd 9

3

Top 10...

Historical gems across Essex (p20)

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

9

21/08/2024 11:31

ALL MADE UP

Wish LIST

Chanel's limited edition makeup takeaways come in two summer palettes. The Nature Getaway is a cute pink pouch containing five products in pinks and oranges, available exclusively at Selfridges. chanel.com

H I STO RY C L A S S

Temperley's Alessandro dress designs are inspired by Elizabethan portraiture: the crepe strewn with hand-painted trompe l’oeil jewellery motifs, featuring brooches and pendants, reminiscent of jewels sewn into clothing during the era. temperleylondon.com

10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

PENDLE HARTE

10

S U I T S YO U For the best selection of colourful swimwear that actually fits well, visit Amelies Follies and enjoy a personalised service and a wide range. ameliesfollies.co.uk

S TA C K U P Summer calls for colourful footwear and Terry de Havilland's current collection is inspired by the brand's original styles, reworked with fresh shades and updated details. terrydehavilland.com

EDITOR’S PICK

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

WISHLIST ORANGE.indd 10

21/08/2024 11:31

ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

SUMMER BRIGHTS

HANDLE IT This collaboration celebrates Lisa Corti's ready-to-wear pieces with Rebecca de Ravenel's stylistic eye for accessories design.

This basket is hand-woven and finished with a Corti scarf. lisacorti.com

Aspiga's collection of summer dresses spans colourful prints, simple flowing kaftans, eveningwear and beach staples. A full summer wardrobe, in fact – and there are sandals, separates and accessories too. aspiga.com

CLIP CLOP Glossier's cute new acrylic claw clip is a colourful and summery piece that'll look good with beachy hair. This colourway is aptly named Sunrise. glossier.com

CHILLI SAUCE Alice Pons' signature Rococò Corset is given the playful Koibird treatment. The Italian made, baroque-inspired corset has been spiced up with a limited-edition chilli pepper motif. Lace up and style with the matching mini skirt for a head-turning moment. koibird.com

IN THE SHADE The Adidas Originals eyewear collection marks an intersection of sport and street style seen through the lens of culture. £129 specsavers.co.uk

SUPER SIZE Summer birthday approaching? Try the Hummingbird Bakery's Giant Vanilla Pinata cupcake, created in celebration of the bakery's own 20th birthday. hummingbirdbakery.com

SMALL SCENTS Bastille's gorgeous and sustainable fragrances now come in dinky 15ml travel-sized sprays that won't overload your liquids allowance.

Our favourite is Plein Lune. bastilleparfums.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

WISHLIST ORANGE.indd 11

11

21/08/2024 11:31

The sense of warmth and camaraderie from dedicated staff.

THE FINEST CUISINE AT SEA®

The thrill of becoming awestruck as you arrive at a fabled destination for the first time.

CURATED TRAVEL EXPERIENCES

The joy of celebrating life, with indulgent cuisine.

SMALL SHIP LUXURY

It’s the personal experiences that will last a lifetime.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK, CONTACT ABBOT TS TR AVEL, 134 GEORGE L ANE, SOUTH WOODFORD, E18 1BA ON 020 8989 9445 OR EMAIL INFO@ABBOTTSTR AVEL .COM

AD ABBOTTS.indd OC_Asbolutely Essex12 & West Essex Ad_210x297mm_v111.indd 1

21/08/2024 08/08/2024 11:31 14:58

C U LT U R E

Sir Ranulph Fiennes 3 OCTOBER, CHARTER HALL

Spend an evening in the extraordinary company of Sir Ranulph Fiennes OBE – ‘the world’s greatest living explorer’ – as he goes beyond his record-breaking achievements to explore the man behind the myth.

Sir Ranulph has circumnavigated the surface of the globe from pole to pole, become the first person to cross the Arctic and Antarctica on foot, broken countless world records of endurance, and discovered the Lost City of Ubar in Arabia. But his accomplishments have come at a cost... colchester-events.co.uk

Agenda 14 • The Style Sisters 16 • Top 10... Heritage 20 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

CULTURE OPENER.indd 13

13

21/08/2024 11:31

The Agenda

PHOTO: JIKSAW

SEPTEMBER'S HOTTEST HAPPENINGS

CO M E DY

Christopher Hall

PHOTO: BARRY MCCALL

19 September D I XO N S T U D I O , S O U T H E N D Girl For All Seasons is a perfect intro to the Christopher Hall fans are yet to meet.

The show tells of his life, as a ‘boy who’s a bit girly’. From unhealthy obsessions with pop princesses, falling in line behind the school Queen Bees, and gaining life lessons from the cast of ‘Bad Girls’, why wouldn’t everyone strive to be girlier? trafalgartickets.com

MU S I C

Camille O’Sullivan 3 S E PTE MB E R • CO LC HE ST ER ARTS CEN TRE

Raunchy and dangerously fragile with an exceptional voice, Camille O’Sullivan is a courageous and singular performer, one of the most gifted interpreters of narrative songs about loss, love, joy, light and darkness. Known as the "Queen of the Edinburgh Festival" (BBC) and the original star of Olivier Award-winning LaClique, Camille enjoys a formidable reputation for her intensely dramatic interpretations of the songs of Brel, Cave, Waits, Bowie, Edith Piaf and more. camilleosullivan.com

14

CO M E DY

Ben Elton 19 September CHARTER HALL The undisputed godfather of modern stand-up is going back on the road.

The world has changed a lot since Ben last toured five years ago - a whole new existential threat has emerged to challenge our very existence: Artificial Intelligence. But Ben is here to warn you that AI is not the greatest threat that we face: it’s Authentic Stupidity. colchester-events.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

AGENDA.indd 14

21/08/2024 11:32

CULTURE • DIARY

AL FRESCO EATING

EV E N T

Graham Norton

A one-of-a-kind dining experience returns to Wilderness Reserve

16 September S O U T H E N D C L I F F S PAV I L I O N Graham Norton, the nation’s favourite talk show host and author, is celebrating the release of his latest novel Frankie with a brand-new tour this autumn.

An Evening with Graham Norton sees Graham discuss Frankie and share hilarious tales from his star-studded sofa, and turns the tables on himself to answer the audience's questions.

Frankie is an immersive, decadesweeping story that brims with Graham’s trademark heart, intelligence and compellingly written characters. trafalgartickets.com

F

T H E AT R E

ONLY FOOLS AND HORSES

CLUEDO 2

A

17 - 21 S E PTE M BER • SOUTHEN D PALACE THEATRE

fter a successful launch last month, the world premiere production of Cluedo 2 is now adding a second autumn leg to its hugely popular UK tour.

Starring Casualty’s Jason Durr as Colonel Mustard and Ellie Leach – the reigning Strictly Come Dancing champion, who is making her stage acting debut – as Miss Scarlett, the show is based on the classic Hasbro board game, which celebrates its 75th anniversary this year. trafalgartickets.com

PHOTO: ALASTAIR MUIR

This Month’s Must See

30 September - 5 October S O U T H E N D C L I F F S PAV I L I O N Comedy giant Paul Whitehouse is to reprise his West End starring role as the lovable Grandad in the tour of the smash hit show Only Fools and Horses The Musical. Take a trip back in time, where it’s all kicking off in Peckham.

While the yuppie invasion of London is in full swing, love is in the air as Del Boy sets out on the rocky road to find his soul mate. trafalgartickets.com

ollowing back-to-back sell-out events over the past two years, YOXMAN the one-of-a-kind Michelin starred dining experience - is returning to Wilderness Reserve, Suffolk, this autumn, from 4-7 October. Set against the stunning backdrop of the 8,000-acre estate of Wilderness Reserve, get ready for the ultimate foodie escape to the British countryside with exceptional food by three critically acclaimed Michelin starred chefs, who have amassed 20 stars between them, luxury accommodation, country pursuits, and masterclasses by world experts in fine wine and spirits.

Rafael Cagali, the incredible two Michelin starred chef and chef patron of Da Terra of London, will launch the weekend's culinary festivities on Friday evening with a canapé reception and three-course banquet dinner at Chapel Barn. One of the world’s most decorated Michelinstarred chefs, Yannick Alléno, who currently holds 16 stars across 17 restaurants, will host the Gala Dinner at Sibton Orangery with a canapé reception and three-course dinner, followed by after dinner entertainment, before the weekend is rounded off in style with Gareth Ward, the two Michelin starred chef patron of Ynyshir in Wales, who will be hosting a fire feast woodland dining experience in the heart of Wilderness’ enchanted woodland.

Guests attending will be provided with a comprehensive weekend schedule of culinary mastery. yoxman.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

AGENDA.indd 15

15

21/08/2024 11:32

16

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

PROFILE STYLE SISTERS.indd 16

21/08/2024 11:32

CULTURE • INTERVIEW

STYLING IT OUT

Essex’s celebrity organisers, Gemma Lilly and Charlotte Reddington, are at it again as the duo launch their very first homeware collection

ALEXANDER EDWARDS PHOTOGRAPHY FOR STYLE SISTERS

A

bsolutely are big fans of the Style Sisters – aka Essex locals, Gemma Lilly and Charlotte Reddington – especially with their relentless drive to keep introducing something new for our homes. Often it has been little touches here or there, but now they have launched their very first homeware collection. Arriving in over 200 Tesco stores across the UK from 16 August this summer, the product collection will be Style Sisters’ first at Tesco.

Best friends and business partners, the duo set up Style Sisters in 2018. Six years on, Gemma and Charlotte have organised and styled the wardrobes and homes of dozens of high-profile celebrity clients – including Vogue Williams, Rochelle Humes, as well as Jamie and Jools Oliver, naming just a few.

Style Sisters’ budget-friendly Tesco collection features 18 homeware items, with prices ranging from £5 to £25. Included in the range are luxe for less candles, diffusers, vases, knitted cushions, photo frames and, of course, a selection of practical storage boxes. Personally designed and curated by Style Sisters, their love of monochrome has inspired the stylish new range.

Experts in creating calm, clutter-free spaces, the timeless colour palette can be easily incorporated into any home design scheme, working collectively together or as individual pieces. Absolutely sat down with them to uncover more.

Q What inspired you to launch

Style Sisters?

A Gemma: We were both feeling creatively frustrated, and it was over dinner one evening when a lightbulb moment happened, we thought why don’t we combine our skills and talents and merge them together to create a duo of interiors, fashion, styling and organising. We like to think of ourselves as the big sisters that come to your home and help guide you through a transformation. The rest is history! Those six years feel like a lifetime ago, we are so grateful for what we have achieved and what is to come in the future.

Q When did you first become interested in

style/interiors?

A Charlotte: We have both been obsessed

with style from a young age. We were forever moving furniture around our childhood homes (much to our parents’ despair!) and re-decorating our bedrooms, making moodboards with cut out inspiration pictures from magazines. We have just naturally got a creative flair and we are both in our element when we are surrounded by design, fashion and interiors. We love looking at a space and thinking ‘how can we make it the best it can be’.

Q How would you describe your

interior style?

A Charlotte: We have a classic style; we love

monochrome with hints of colour and our signature stripe always gets included somewhere in our designs. We love

how you can create a simple yet beautiful base and add to it with layers of texture, pattern and colour.

Q How does it feel to launch your first range at Tesco?

A Gemma: We are so excited and grateful for this opportunity. We both feel like there is a huge gap for affordable stylish storage and homeware, so to be able to bring this to market and launch a range at the biggest grocer in the UK is truly amazing.

Q Where did you get your inspiration from for this homeware range?

A Charlotte: Our inspiration came from our love of monochrome and wanting to keep things minimalist but impactful.

Our focus was texture to give the items a point of difference, whilst still remaining a good staple piece for the home. We wanted our items to sit seamlessly together and to work in most people’s homes regardless of their interior choices.

Q Why did you choose the monochrome colour palette as a base for the range?

A Gemma: Monochrome is such a classic colour palette, it’s something we both are really drawn to. We aren’t trend led and prefer to create a classic base that allows you to introduce different textures and colours over time. We love that these pieces work collectively together without feeling too harsh and they also work independently. The monochrome gives such freedom to do this.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

PROFILE STYLE SISTERS.indd 17

17

21/08/2024 11:32

CULTURE • INTERVIEW

THE RANGE INCLUDES DECORATIVE STORAGE PIECES

Q Can you share more about the

our cushions and throw can give your home a quick stylish update – whether that’s on the sofa in a living room or bedroom paired with crisp white sheets.

Gemma: The candles and diffusers can be added to hallway consoles, dining and coffee tables and can be a decorative piece as well as smelling lovely.

Charlotte: If you are stuck for space, our stylish storage pieces can elevate your home, while also proving a practical storage solution.

Q You have spent years organising

Q Are there any quick-fix home organising tips or hacks you can share to keep homes looking clutter-free?

A Charlotte: Change your hangers – velvet hangers are slimline by design, and you can fit around three velvet hangers in the same space as one wooden hanger.

It’s a game changer for wardrobes!

Gemma: Storage solutions – hidden storage is a clever way to create the feeling of clutter free zen in homes.

Having a place for items in your home that you don’t want out on display will encourage you to put it away after

range, any favourite pieces in it etc?

A Gemma: We have a great selection of home fragrance, textiles and decorative storage pieces. We are both super passionate about the lasting impression scent can leave on a home, as it’s something people will always remember if your home smelt good, so for us creating statement candles that smell stunning is one of our favourite things, but honestly, we just love it all so much. and detoxing celebrity wardrobes, what top tips/decluttering hacks can you share from your experience?

A Charlotte: Having regular detoxes will help to prevent your home from building up clutter. Investing in good storage pieces will help you to remain organised in the future.

Q Can you share three ideas for how

people can incorporate products into their home and style the range?

A Charlotte: Soft furnishings can instantly update and transform a space,

use too. Having a system in place like storage boxes for certain items in cupboards/drawers will stop those spaces becoming messy and unorganised.

Charlotte: Group like-minded items together – we like to categorise and contain! Organising items in this way means you can easily see how much you have of certain items, when you might be running low, or when you need to detox.

Gemma: Have a good detox – the easiest way to avoid a house full of items you no longer need or want, is regular detoxes.

Far from being wasteful, we like to think of it as freeing up space in your home and sending items on to homes that will make use of them, rather than them sitting gathering dust in a box or garage.

Our homes reflect the stage of life we are in, constantly changing – children become teenagers, pets may join the family, spring transitions to summer and annual Christmas celebrations return – so having regular detoxes will mean your home stays practical and functional for the stage you are in.

Q Are there any celebrity homes you would love to work on and if so who/why?

A Gemma: We would love to go to America and organise the Hollywood A-listers!

Q What decorating advice would you give for a classic, timeless style?

A Gemma: Decorate your home with neutral colours and add interest with texture and accessories.

Monochrome is and will always be a classic and statement for the home.

Q Why does scent play such an important role for you?

A Gemma: Scent is really important and can evoke emotion, feelings and memories.

We love to create moods around the home using scents to help uplift your day.

HOME FRAGRANCE IS KEY

18

Check out Style Sisters range in selected Tesco stores now; @stylesisters

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

PROFILE STYLE SISTERS.indd 18

21/08/2024 11:32

B R E N T W O O D

A R C H E S

C A R E

H O M E

s e ti i l i b i s s o P f o e Enjoy a Lif Brentwood Arches is renowned for its vibrant and welcoming community.

Their dedicated well-being teams produce an exciting and varied programme of activities and events every day. Residents are supported with personal interests not already covered in the calendar and memory, physical and sensory-based activities are designed with therapeutic outcomes in mind.

Day trips • Creative writing classes • Art classes • Gardening club Live entertainment • Exercise classes

Start your care journey by 30 September 2024 and receive your 12th week for free*

01277 542789 Hubert Road | Off London Road | Brentwood | Essex | CM14 4NA *T&Cs apply. Please visit averyhealthcare.co.uk/ouroffers for more details

AD AVERY HEALTHCARE.indd 19

21/08/2024 11:32

THAMES SAILING BARGE IN MALDON

XXXXXX • XXXXXXXX

TOP

10

UNEXPECTED History and Heritage From castles to grand gardens, Visit Essex takes you through some of Essex’s surprising historical gems

20

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

TOP10 HERITAGE.indd 20

21/08/2024 11:33

CULTURE • TOP 10

Essex’s historic castles

Essex is blessed with two of the finest Norman Keeps in Europe. The largest is the well-known Colchester Castle built in the 11th century on the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius. The castle became a museum for archaeological treasures in 1860, and today it is home to archaeological collections covering 2,500 years of history, including many of the most important Roman finds in Britain.

Just down the road, history lovers will fall under the spell of Hedingham Castle. It’s a motte-and-bailey castle and Norman Keep, built 900 years ago by the de Vere family. Throughout the years the castle has seen battles and played host to Tudor royalty! Today the castle hosts a full events programme throughout the year, from jousting to vintage car shows.

Visit a museum to learn more about the county’s history

Did you know the Chelmsford Museum, which was founded in 1835, was originally located inside part of the old Chelmsford Gaol? The collections were eventually moved to their current home in Oaklands House. Today, the museum houses objects that creatively retell the tales of local history and bring the dawn of radio to life.

If culinary history is more your cup of tea, visit Tiptree Jam Museum and Tearooms. The Wilkin family created JAM AT THE TIPTREE JAM FACTORY

QUEEN ELIZABETH I HUNTING LODGE AT EPPING FOREST PHOTO

BY JAMIE SMITH XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

the very first Tiptree jam preserves in 1885, and within 10 years, more than 200 tonnes of fruit was being produced.

Today, Wilkin & Sons jam is sold in over 60 countries. The Jam Museum is based at its HQ in Tiptree and provides a nostalgic tour of life behind the scenes and merchandise collected

by Mr J. S. Wilkin over the years.

Legendary fun on the pier

Southend Pier is the world’s longest and has been wowing visitors since the early 19th century, where they used to dock alongside the pier at low tide.

Today, it stretches 1.33 miles into the Thames Estuary and is home to a wide range of eateries and amusements.

Royal Hunting Grounds at Epping Forest

Epping Forest is believed to be one of King Henry VIII’s favourite royal hunting grounds. Just a stone’s throw from the capital, the King would travel out for a weekend of hunting in stunning woodlands. Today the forest still has royal connections and is home to the Queen Elizabeth Hunting Lodge, which is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm.

down the UK. Today, you can experience life onboard a traditional barge with Topsail Charters, which are based at the historic harbourside in Maldon.

Stay at venues steeped in history

The manor of Down Hall dates all the way back to the early 11th century.

Today, Down Hall Estate sits within 110 acres of surrounding woodland, with luxury interiors and ornate ceilings.

Down Hall also hosted the Great British Bake Off in 2020! The manor offers 98 individually designed bedrooms, including Master Suites, Mansion House Suites and Deluxe Rooms.

Room prices start from £169 per night.

Tuck into traditional favourites A day out at the seaside wouldn’t be the same without a traditional fish and chip supper. Opt for freshly cooked fish in batter with thick cut chips on the beach, or head to one of the county’s historic eateries, such as The Pier Hotel in Harwich.

Ice cream is essential for a special

Experience yesteryear along the county’s 350-mile coast

Colourful beach huts line many coastal areas of Essex. Day trippers have been enjoying these pretty beach huts at popular seaside resorts such as Frinton-on-Sea, Southend-on-Sea and Walton-on-the-Naze for over 100 years. They now provide the perfect backdrop for an Instagram-worthy shot.

Or set sail on an historic Thames Sailing Barge. These beautiful barges were a common sight on the county’s shoreline as they ferried cargo up and

HEDINGHAM CASTLE

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

TOP10 HERITAGE.indd 21

21

21/08/2024 11:33

Set in the glorious surroundings of medieval barns, with over 100 Exhibitors, Catering, Licensed Bar and Live Music.

Luxury Holiday Rentals at Glenmor Make yourselves at home in the heart of Gleneagles The Gleneagles experience is one of a kind – you can now enjoy it from the comfort of a Glenmor luxury holiday home, located in the heart of Gleneagles. On your stay you can enjoy complimentary golf for one person, plus access to all of the leisure, dining and pursuits of the 5 star estate. We have 2, 3 and 4 bedroom properties available, perfect for all the family.

3,750 2 , 4,720 3 5,180 4 7

Find out more: GLENEAGLES.COM/GLENMOR + 44 (0)1764 694321 OWN@GLENEAGLES.COM

The Timeshare, Holiday Products, Resale and Exchange Contracts Regulation 2010 requires Gleneaglesto provide you with certain key information in relation to the proposed seasonal ownership contract. A standard information form which contains this key information in relation to that contract may beobtained by contacted us via the above methods.

AD COE - PERILLA - GLENEAGLES.indd 22

21/08/2024 11:33

• XXXXXXXX • TOP 10 XXXXXX CULTURE

EPPING FOREST

DOWN HALL

landscaped Wivenhoe Park, the hotel and its grounds were painted by Constable.

Rooms start from £120 per night.

day out to the beach and Rossi’s Ice Cream Parlour on the promenade in Southend is a must. Rossi has been serving up delicious Italian-style ice cream since 1932 and offer a range of yummy tasting ice cream.

Visit the Witchfinder General’s Mistley and Manningtree

The beautiful town of Manningtree and the pretty village of Mistley are the surprising setting for a sinister past. Between 1644-1646, Matthew Hopkins, the Witchfinder General, lived here and would try and hang people for witchcraft. He is believed to be responsible for the death of 300 women. Today the area offers a much more tranquil setting. Visitors can pop into The Mistley Thorn, which offers tasty food and stylish accommodation.

Rooms are priced from £120 per night.

Step into a painting

The Stour estuary has long been known as ‘Constable Country’ thanks to the works of John Constable in the 18th century. Walkers near Dedham can wander into some of his most celebrated pictures by ambling by the riverside.

Visitors to the county could even stay at one of the paintings he created, ‘Wivenhoe Park’, which is now the Wivenhoe House Hotel, a Grade II listed mansion house. Set in the beautifully SOUTHEND PIER

Experience history for free

Explore Essex’s heritage and history for free. Visit Essex will be running its

BEACH HUTS IN WALTON-ON-THE-NAZE

annual ‘Big Weekend’ from Friday 4 to Sunday 6 October, where you can try and win free tickets to a wide range of visitor attractions. The ballot opened on Monday 19 August and closes on Monday 16 September. Be in it to win it – visit essexbigweekend.co.uk to enter.

To find more places to go to learn about Essex’s history and heritage this September, see visitessex.com

CONSTABLE COUNTRY, PHOTO BY THE SUN INN DEDHAM

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

TOP10 HERITAGE.indd 23

23

21/08/2024 11:33

LIGHT SPEED

The lightest and most powerful series-production McLaren, the new V8-engined, rear-wheel drive 750S, is unashamedly a supercar for the purist, as James Fuschillo discovers

W

e all need a hero in our lives right now, and the super variety needs the right vehicle to go about their work – and the McLaren 750S would be that car. Laying eyes on it for the first time, the sleek and aerodynamic look really does scream Batmobile, especially if it came in all black, matte. And considering McLaren will customise the colour to whatever your heart desires, consider that a given.

Designed and engineered following meticulous analysis of the renowned McLaren 720S, the new 750S combines advances in weight-saving, powertrain performance, aerodynamics and dynamic excellence to elevate a benchmark driving experience to new heights. Around 30 per cent of 750S components are either new or changed

24

in order to deliver these improvements, and they are noticeable, from the way the car drives, to dealing with problems that suburban life may throw at you.

Settling into the 750S, it’s probably the closest thing you can get on the ground that resembles being a fighter jet pilot. These cars are built for speed, but for me the level of comfort and security blew me away.

Speed, however, is not forgotten. The engineering developments advance the renowned daily usability of the 720S, and yet the power and performance of the 750S is more full-blooded and undiminished than ever. Outright acceleration is phenomenal, with 0-100km/h (62mph) achieved in 2.8 seconds.

The interior is very minimalistic, but at the same time high tech. The 750S fuses innovative technology with exquisite materials, but most importantly is even more driver-focused in design. At the heart

of the driver experience are new displays, both for information and instruments, with the instrument display fitted to – and moving with – the steering column. This driver-centric display is mounted in a binnacle that has the controls to select Powertrain and Handling modes located on either side, meaning the driver can move effortlessly between Comfort, Sport and Track Active Dynamic settings while keeping their hands on the wheel and a complete focus on the road ahead.

This also is a supercar for the petrolheads out there. The engine is located to the rear, but thanks to a fancy design feature, you can see inside the car into the engine bay. Come the night and the engine bay is illuminated red, which really does give the car the x factor. This is a car where you can not only admire its design, but also the mechanics that go into making it such a joy to drive.

The exhaust system is another change

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

MCLAREN.indd 24

21/08/2024 11:33

CULTURE • MOTORING

THE MCLAREN 750S IS A JOY TO DRIVE

SPECS AT A GLANCE ENGINE CONFIGURATION M840T engine, 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, 3,994cc POWER PS (bhp/kW) @ rpm 750 (740/552) @ 7,500rpm MCLAREN 750S COUPE & MCLAREN 750S SPIDER

TORQUE Nm (lb ft) @ rpm 800 (590) @ 5,500rpm TRANSMISSION 7 Speed SSG. Comfort, Sport and Track modes

from the 720S. That had two circular exhausts at the back next to each tail light, whereas in the 750S it has been replaced by a much bigger, central exhaust with a completely different design, including a really sexy touch that assists with braking.

Driver Downforce (active wing partially deployed, dependent on speed) is engaged when the Aero button is pushed in the cabin, increasing downforce levels during highspeed cornering. The design and positioning of the single, central exhaust pipe meant that the new active rear wing is positioned 60mm higher, its revised static position bringing additional powertrain cooling by drawing hot air out of the engine bay.

It was a joy to take the 750S onto motorways and clear A roads, but I was also keen to put it through its paces through a suburban set up. A really good function on the car is McLaren’s Proactive Chassis Control linked-hydraulic suspension, a real game changer in a suburban area, enabling you to lift the car’s nose in four seconds at the touch of a button. The new-generation system delivers even higher levels of suspension performance and is integral to the outstanding dynamic abilities of the 750S. Comfort in design, but also in practice. The suspension springs are softer at the front

and stiffer at the rear than in the 720S, which together with reconfiguration of both the passive and active elements of the bespoke valve stack and a new approach to tuning the suspension – adjusting the accumulators in the struts, which is used for the first time in 750S – benefits ride comfort, roll control, steering feedback and cornering balance.

The way the 750S handles is a dream, and also the acceleration off the mark. You can feel the raw power, it’s so responsive.

When you are going up in speed so quickly you also need to have handling matching that and I thought it was a really well balanced car. The extraordinary levels of exhilaration, precision, agility, feel and feedback that the 750S delivers are immediately apparent to the driver, even at lower speeds – and its low weight is a key factor in its dynamic performance.

At just 1,389kg (DIN), it weighs 30kg less than a 720S – a clear example of McLaren’s dedication to lightweight engineering.

VERDICT With the new 750S, McLaren defines a new benchmark for supercar performance and driver exhilaration. cars.mclaren.com

STEERING Electro-hydraulic; power-assisted CHASSIS Carbon fibre Monocage II monocoque with aluminium front and rear crash structures SUSPENSION Independent adaptive dampers, dual aluminium wishbones, hydraulically linked PCC III system. Comfort, Sport and Track modes BRAKES Carbon Ceramic Discs (390mm front; 380mm rear); Aluminium Calipers (6-piston front; 4-piston rear) LENGTH mm (inches) 4,569 (180) WHEELBASE mm (inches) 2,670 (105) HEIGHT mm (inches) 1,196 (47) WIDTH with mirrors, mm (inches) 2,161 (85) WIDTH mirrors folded, mm (inches) 2,059 (81) FUEL TANK CAPACITY litres (UK/USA gallons) 72 (15.8/19) LUGGAGE CAPACITY litres Front: 150 Rear: 210

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

MCLAREN_SEPTEMBER 2024_ABSOLUTELY ESSEX.indd 25

25

21/08/2024 14:10

A FRANK CHARLES AND PAULA CHARLES

L a n d m a r k

OCCASION Haslers Chartered Accountants celebrate a funding milestone of raising £250,000 for good causes. Their Chairman writes about how they have managed it

By JON O’SHEA

26

t Haslers we are proud of our long history of supporting businesses across London & Essex (since 1951). Across those eight decades, we’ve always understood the importance of giving back. We launched the Foundation in 2008 to support local causes. The objectives of the foundation are to relieve financial hardship, to support people that are seriously ill and to improve the well-being of young people.

Sixteen years later, the Haslers Foundation has now supported over 140 great causes and made over 450 monetary donations. During that time the Haslers Foundation has built long-standing relationships with the region’s leading charities.

HOW DO WE DO IT? We currently direct 1% of all profits into the Foundation annually, with additional funds raised by the incredible efforts of staff and our wider network. Marathons, mud runs, quiz nights (you name it!), the Haslers’ team pull out all the stops to support the Haslers Foundation.

THE BIG NEWS As of this month we are delighted to announce that the Haslers Foundation has now achieved the fantastic milestone of £250,000 donated to local causes.

Reaching this milestone is testament to the generosity of our supporters, the hard work of the Haslers team and the great working relationships we have with our charity partners – both old and new.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ADVTL HASLERS.indd 26

21/08/2024 11:38

CULTURE • PARTNERSHIP

“We are proud to continue supporting several of our key charity partners”

HAVEN HOUSE

LONG-STANDING RELATIONSHIPS We are proud to continue supporting several of our key charity partners, which the Haslers Foundation work with on a long-standing basis. Here’s just a snapshot of some of those local charities…

3Food4U operate a network of important community hubs – offering food supplies, essentials and a chance to socialise for many in the local area.

The founder, Pesh Kapasiawala, recently told us: “The Haslers Foundation have always been great supporters. Their donations have enabled us to provide nutritious fresh food for the community, which enhances both life and wellbeing.”

Long term partner, The Dream Factory offer children in need and their families incredible opportunities and special memories. Its founder, Avril Mills, told us: “The Haslers Foundation are amazing!

JON O'SHEA

HASLERS FUNDRAISING TEAM

Their efforts to help The Dream Factory are invaluable to a small charity like ours.”

Frank Charles, founder of The Frank Charles Give a Gift Appeal and Feed the Streetz, said: “The Haslers Foundation has always been there for my charity, from the early days of setting us up as a registered charity, to their ongoing and tireless support over the years. Their support means everything to me.”

Martin Mears of renowned local charity, Haven House Children’s Hospice, added: “The Haslers Foundation are part of our DNA and without their support and others like them, we could not provide the services that we offer to children and their families.”

WE’RE OPEN TO APPLICATIONS As well as nurturing those important long-term relationships, we are however always on the lookout for more great causes to support. In the last few months alone, we’ve built new relationships and supported a raft of new causes. These have included a construction project with The Avenue Lawn Tennis Club in Loughton, providing specialist palliative care equipment for St Luke’s Hospice in South Essex and supporting Freedom2 – a charity focusing on the safety of women and girls in and around London.

WATCH THIS SPACE! The donation milestone of £250,000 would not have been possible without the ongoing fundraising efforts of our team and we’re not letting up. Our team are now gearing up for their next batch of activities, including skydiving, wing walking, the 3 Peaks Challenge, a corporate 5-a-side football tournament, and of course the famous annual Haslers Foundation Quiz Night. All the money raised will be donated to causes, like those mentioned, via the Haslers Foundation.

A SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENT On a personal note, I am immensely proud of our fundraising efforts and reaching this incredible milestone of £250,000 donated to local causes. I would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to all our supporters and to the team at Haslers who regularly go above and beyond in fundraising.

However, this is just the beginning, and our goal is to continue to build awareness of the Foundation, the work of our charity partners and ultimately the positive impact on those in the local community.

To find out more about the Haslers Foundation and to download a grant application form, please visit haslers.com/foundation A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ADVTL HASLERS.indd 27

27

21/08/2024 11:38

PARQUE DEL LA CIUTADELLA FOUNTAIN

TAPAS, GAUDI & BEACH How Barcelona is full to the brim with passion, culture and art Wo r d s a n d p h o t o s b y C R Y S TA L M C C L O R Y

28

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ADVTL ABBOTTS.indd 28

21/08/2024 11:38

XXXXXXXX CULTURE •• TRAVEL XXXXX

B

arcelona is perfect for a weekend away: just two hours on a flight. On arrival, we enjoy tapas at cute restaurant Estraperlo, Barceloneta. Delicious padron peppers, patatas negras, grilled prawns, wine and a promenade along Passage de Joan de Borbó.

Samsara for Saturday brunch near the seafront. It’s so nice to be in a city yet by a beach! Meandering the cobbled streets into El Born, the floor pink with blossom petals. El Born CCM is a restored market hall with museum. Wander through the narrow medieval streets of trendy Born to browse boutiques.

Stroll to Parque del la Ciutadella to sit under fragrant orange blossom trees.

A green oasis with a fountain and an idyllic place to relax between sightseeing.

Bandstand music plays, people dance, bubbles drift and children play. It’s magical and I even see a unicorn… balloon.

Evening cocktails at Penny Banger, Barrio Gòtico then Mexican restaurant La Pachuca for nachos, tacos and margaritas.

Up on the roof for SUCO sessions Sunday yoga. House music beats as a helicopter rattles and seagulls swoop above the sandy beach. I pack Curlsmith Effortless Waves for beach curls.

Healthy lunch is at Honest Greens overlooking the beach. Sunday dominguear is for relaxing, but we can’t resist an artsy fix of contemporary and colourful street art at MOCO Museum.

‘Tomorrow we will do beautiful things,’ said Antonio Gaudi. So, after a cuppa at La Cala cafe, we head to Parc Güell in the Gràcia district (book tickets in advance). Fairytale turrets peek above palm trees, colourful mosaics and columns in beautifully planted gardens. A mosaic lizard sculpture of El Drac dragon is popular with visitors. Rest on a tiled bench or shaded terrace and enjoy the view of Gaudi’s ‘gingerbread’ house. Hungry now?

We head to EatMyTrip for lunch, where a mural depicts the café’s cute resident dogs.

SAGRADA FAMÍLIA

Casa Vicens house is Gaudi’s debut work.

Modernism with an oriental influence, outstanding use of colour and decorative motifs. Arabian influences, lemon panels, floral tiles, terracotta brick create a pleasing palette. Nature is a recurring theme.

Hexagonal hallways, palm tree painted ceilings and textured tiles. It’s so beautiful and relaxing. ‘To do things right, first you need love, then technique,’ Antoni Gaudi.

We devour gourmet ice creams at Aurelien. RS Barcelona design concept store has great books and homeware. At a Calçot party we eat Catalonian speciality; spring onions chargrilled on a barbecue, wrapped in newspaper and dipped in Romesco sauce. The aromatic sun-ripened Spanish tomatoes smell divine. I love the tomato and redcurrant scent in Les Jardins Francais, La Siziane Parfumée travel box. Ramble home via the Lichtenstein surrealist, abstract sculpture El Cap de Barcelona in the old town Ciutat Vella.

SAMSARA

MOCO CRYSTALS

Saunter beside the beach as sailboats slide by on the shimmering sea, to Port Olimpic harbour. Hotel Arts Barcelona overlooks Frank Gehry’s Fish sculpture, copper glinting in the sunshine.

The huge gothic cathedral, Basílica de la Sagrada Família, is ethereal and spectacular. Started in 1882, still unfinished and due for completion in 2026 (but we all know what builders are like!). The avantgarde architecture, with Gaudi’s signature nature references, towers above. Looking up at the ceiling is like a kaleidoscope.

Lunch at Lato Café, pass historic shops in the L'Eixample area and stylish, boutique hotel Casa Bonay to check out the roof terrace of the beautifully lavish and ornate El Palace. Luxury hotel Claris Hotel & Spa also offers city views from its rooftop pool and a unique art collection. Visit the curved sculpted stonework adorned by an iridescent mosaic of Casa Batlló with its whimsical dragon-like roof. Take an audio tour at La Pedrera-Casa Milà or visit high-end designer stores on the prestigious Passeig de Gracia.

Elegant and modern hotels Pulitzer and Regina are close to the fountains and sculptures of Plaza Catalunya and the pedestrianised area of Las Ramblas, Picasso Museum, Cathedral de la Seu and Juan Miro Foundation.

Take a 10-day cruise with Oceania Cruises from Southampton via France, Porto and Spain, ending up at Barcelona.

A city of modernism, music, fashion, design, and Catalan gastronomy. I love this walkable, vibrant and cosmopolitan city, alive with energy, enthralling architecture and fabulous weather.

To book contact Abbotts Travel on 020 8989 9445 or email info@abbottstravel.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ADVTL ABBOTTS.indd 29

29

21/08/2024 11:38

A taste of Luxury in the heart of Constable Country Eat, Drink, Sleep

5 luxurious boutique rooms –

Multi award winning restaurant

Call our team now on 01206 803406 reservations@thelioneastbergholt.co.uk thelioneastbergholt.co.uk The Street, East Bergholt, Colchester, Essex CO7 6TB

Proud Winners of the Suffolk Magazine Food and Drinks award: 2024 Restaurant of the Year

AD_THE LANGHAM LION.indd 30 THE_LANGHAM_FP_ABS_ESSEX_AUG2024_V4.indd 1

21/08/2024 17/07/2024 11:38 09:33

FOOD & DRINK

LAID BARE STARK

After making waves in Kent with their Michelin star restaurant Stark, chef Ben and Sophie Crittenden have relocated the unique dining experience to Mersea Island. Expect £90 set menus featuring two meat dishes, like the duck liver parfait, confit leg, ginger bread, hazelnut and apricot; two fish courses, like mackerel, cucumber dashi, lardo and borage; and two desserts, like the clean and fresh goat's curd, pistachio sorbet, lemon puree and grape, accompanied with an optional wine flight. starkfood.co.uk

Food News 32 • Afternoon Tea 35 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FOOD OPENER.indd 31

31

21/08/2024 11:38

WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news

Wine recommendations for the month

TASTING NOTES

Essex food news and the most exciting openings in the industry this month

By MARK KEBBLE

By JOSE PIZARRO

José Pizarro Cava Brut Nature ‘Gran Reserva’  £27.50 This delicious, balanced, yellow-gold Cava offers an impressive release of fine celebratory bubbles. The exotic scent of peaches, pineapple and dried wildflowers reflect the structured tropical fruit flavours – pineapple, citrus peel, and sunsoaked citrus fruits.

In the mouth it has an old wine luxury and fullness reminiscent of a vintage Gran Reserva – it is bready and elaborated.

Pizarro Rosé, Forcallat  £24.50 Pale in colour and boasting a fresh, floral nose with hints of red fruit, the palate is light, fresh and balanced. Made using 100% Forcallat grape variety, the grapes are harvested by hand without crushing, and naturally cold-soaked for 24 hours. The vines are grown in 35 year-old goblet-trained vines at an altitude of 600 metres above sea level, and sandy loam soil with limestone.

Perfect for pairing with grilled meats, seafood, and salads, this elegant bottle is the perfect addition to any summer spread.

José Pizarro, Rare Solera PAP, Osborne  £170.00 The Osborne family takes great pride in the wines of this Rare Collection, not only because they have passionately cared for them for decades, but also because every drop embodies their heritage and tradition. Not long ago, they decided to share these wines, releasing a selection in very limited quantities.

Grape: 92% Palomino Fino, 8% PX Pairing: Ideally, experience this sherry moderately chilled at 11 - 13°C as an accompanying wine to peach-passion fruit dessert, banana trifle in a glass or arugula penne.

josepizarro.com

32

Turn up the heat B A R + B LO C K

Bar + Block, E1, is visiting Mexico as part of its ‘Inspired By’ menu. Filled with energy and vibrant flavours, Bar + Block’s exciting slew of new Mexican-inspired dishes and Tequila Thirsty Thursday menu, in partnership with El Jimador, is running until 6 November. Be taken on a flavour tour through Mexico City’s street-food markets and the region’s most iconic dishes. barandblock.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FOOD NEWS.indd 32

21/08/2024 11:39

FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

PHOTO: EMMA PHARAOH

TAKE THREE Essential kitchen kit

AGAINST

TH E

GRAIN SUSHI REVOLUTION

Weekends made for H A R T S H O R E D I TC H

Hart Shoreditch's decadent restaurant UBA has puts its signature twist on the classic weekend brunch. The Pan-Asian brunch menu includes culinary delights such as Japanese savoury pancakes, sweet or savoury Japanese waffles, and souffle pancakes. hartshoreditch.com

ADDISON ROSS Addison Ross's stylish bobbin salt and pepper grinders come in a huge range of bright shiny shades. Mix and match your pair, or pick two of the same. The grind is good too. addison-ross.com

Contemporary Japanese restaurant Sushi Revolution has opened its second site on Curtain Road, Shoreditch.

Founded by friends and colleagues Tom Blackshaw and Aidan Bryan, Sushi Revolution is a modern interpretation of a traditional Japanese Izakaya. sushirevolution.co.uk

MICROPLANE You might not have known that you need this, but once you try it there's no going back. The avocado tool is a knife, a scoop and a pit remover in one, for maximum efficiency in skin removal and neat slicing. microplane.com

TA ST Y

TRIO RAKE

Taste explosion WHITE HART INN

COOKUT

White Hart Inn, Mersea, has launched a fabulous new menu. Not only is there a return of their Trio of Oysters (raw, cured, grilled), but they have an amazing Seafood Roll of Lobster, Crab and Prawns with delicious sage mayonnaise. Other delights include Chilled Courgette Soup, Crab Linguine, and Colne Valley Lamb Chops. whitehartinnmersea.co.uk

The Morty mortar and pestle can be held in your hand, which enables the easy crushing of ingredients with the bambou pestle. The built-in spout allows you to pour the crushed ingredients without any mess. It's a nifty bit of kit. hypedesignlondon.co.uk

Rake is the hotly anticipated, long term kitchen residency at The Gun in Hackney. Rake is operated by three chefs with a combined 30 years in the industry. Rake serves largely English seafood and unfeigned, restorative fare. The focus, among other produce, is on whole beast butchery and sustainable Cornish fish. thegunwellstreet.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FOOD NEWS.indd 33

33

21/08/2024 11:39

AD COPAS.indd 34

21/08/2024 11:39

FOOD & DRINK • AFTERNOON TEA

I T ' S A LWAY S TEA TIME FIVE MEMORABLE LONDON SPOTS WORTH A VISIT

1

PA R I S FA S H I O N CA FE L A PEROUSE

1

Cafe Laperouse offers a Parisian take on the cherished British ritual with a meticulously curated array of finger sandwiches, artisanal French pastries, an assortment of teas and, of course, homemade scones with cream and jam. cafelaperouse.com

2

BEE KIND

SHA NGR I-LA THE SHAR D

2 3

A new nature-inspired ‘Bees in Bloom’ Afternoon Tea collaboration with jewellery brand Alex Monroe creates a buzz with enchanting hive-inspired hotel decorations and an exclusive gift voucher for guests to redeem on jewellery pieces. ting-shangri-la.com

3

S TAG E D O O R LANE

Theatre Royal Drury Lane is the only theatre serving Afternoon Tea. Enter a world of Regency, indulging in delicious cakes, scones, canapé style savoury treats and glasses of Taittinger champagne. thelane.co.uk

4

4

5

F R E N C H FA N C Y SOCCA

French bistro Socca's L'amour du The blends the grace of English tea traditions with the whimsical allure of the Côte d’Azur. Sample quiche, rillettes and croquettes, while paying homage to the coastal towns of the French Riviera. soccabistro.com

5

AU F D E U T S C H

GER M A N GYMNASIUM

Enjoy Kaffee und kuchen at German Gymnasium. This elegant, relaxed afternoon tea features German baking with a contemporary twist.

Expect an assortment of Herzhaft (Savouries) and Süß (Sweets). germangymnasium.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

AT.indd 35

35

21/08/2024 11:40

AD ERNEST DOE.indd 36

21/08/2024 11:40

FA S H I O N

Gem of the earth

BERRY’S JEWELLERS

Ancient Persians believed the earth rested on a giant sapphire that made the sky blue, thus it became known as the ‘the gem of autumn’, representing the blue of the autumn sky and the birthstone of September. Symbolising truth and sincerity, the sapphire is said to release tension. The new sapphire pieces from the Berry’s VERVE collection make the perfect gift for a September birthday.

Discover the collection at your nearest Berry’s showroom or berrysjewellers.co.uk

The Shoot 38 • Jewellery 43 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FASHION OPENER.indd 37

37

21/08/2024 11:40

Bags of

STYLE SHOOT.indd 38

21/08/2024 11:40

Tissa Fontaneda new ready-to-wear collection – available at Icon in Buckhurst Hill – looks the part on supermodel Anna Cleveland T I S S A F O N TA N E D A . C O M

SHOOT.indd 39

21/08/2024 11:41

SHOOT.indd 40

21/08/2024 11:41

SHOOT.indd 41

21/08/2024 11:41

AD Marloe Watch.indd 42

21/08/2024 11:41

FASHION • JEWELLERY

Indian opulence Regal pieces inspired by the designers' rich Indian heritage B y C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

HARAKH

LA MUSE GEMS

AMRAPALI LONDON

18K yellow gold and brilliant cut diamond Sunlight Necklace, £4,200 harakh.com

14K yellow gold, diamond, mother of pearl, and tourmaline Taj Mahal earrings, £4,828 shop-lamusegems.com

18K yellow gold and black rhodium Mini Rajasthan bracelet with multi sapphires, £3,800 amrapalilondon.com

MODERN MOGHUL

18K white gold, diamond, tsavorite, peridot, and crystal quartz, Scatter Ombré Emerald Necklace, £29,600 ananya.com

ANANYA Rhodium plated sterling silver Rucya Bracelet with gold vermeil, sapphires, and diamonds, £6,311 modernmoghul.com

KASTUR JEWELS 18K gold plated Tourmaline Ring Band, £395 kasturjewels.com

LA MUSE GEMS

SETHI COUTURE

PRAKSHI

14K yellow gold, diamond, and tourmaline Fusion chandelier earrings, £4,828 shop-lamusegems.com

18K rose gold, diamond, and sapphire Rainbow No. 8 Chloe ring stack, £10,340 sethicouture.com

18K yellow gold and diamond Rewind Ear Cuff, £7,888 (each) prakshi.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

JEWELLERY.indd 43

43

21/08/2024 11:41

0% Payment Plans Available

Oaks Hospital, Rivers Hospital and Springfield Hospital

Your Local Private Healthcare Providers of Choice Get back to the things you love through rapid and convenient access to treatment

Foot & Ankle

Hand & Wrist

Hip & Knee

Physiotherapy

Shoulder & Elbow

Spinal & Back

Call us on 0808 1893 800 to book an appointment or scan the QR code to find out more about the services we provide.

Oaks Hospital, 120 Mile End Road, Colchester CO4 5XR

AD RAMSAY HEALTH.indd 44

Rivers Hospital, High Wych Road, Sawbridgeworth CM21 0HH

Springfield Hospital, Lawn Lane, Springfield, Chelmsford CM1 7GU

21/08/2024 11:41

HEALTH & BEAUTY

GLOW getters

SARAH CHAPMAN

Sarah Chapman's new 'Clinic Range' is a trio of clinically proven formulations designed to deliver dermatologist results at home. R&R Glow Recovery Cream, A1 Vitamin A Power 1 Serum, and C1 Vitamin C Power 1 Serum all use innovative 'TTS³' technology to give you healthy, radiant skin. sarahchapman.com

Beauty Products 49 • Moat House Care Home 51 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

HB OPENER.indd 45

45

21/08/2024 11:41

ADVTL DR NYLA.indd 46

21/08/2024 11:41

ADVTL DR NYLA.indd 47

21/08/2024 11:41

Moat House Care Home

Residential & Dementia Care Our Care Home provides the highest standards of family led residential and dementia care. Our home is luxurious and beautifully furnished, whilst retaining a warm family atmosphere that makes Moat House feel extra special.

Enquire today

01279 743 184 Great Easton, Dunmow, CM6 2DL www.countrycourtcare.com

AD COUNTRY COURT - DR NANDRA.indd 48

21/08/2024 11:42

HEALTH & BEAUTY • TREND SCULPTED BY AIMEE Sun Mist - SPF 50 Spray, £19 sculptedbyaimee.co.uk

ELIZABETH ARDEN Eight Hour Cream Targeted Sun Defense Stick SPF 50, £18 elizabetharden.co.uk

SHISEIDO Expert Sun Protector Cream SPF50+, £36 shiseido.co.uk

CHANEL UV Essentiel SPF 50, £50 chanel.com

ULTRA VIOLETTE Preen Screen™ SPF50 Reapplication Mist, £32 ultraviolette.co.uk

Q+A Daily Sunscreens, £15 each qandaskin.com

CHANTECAILLE Ultra Sun Protection SPF 45 PA ++ , £92 chantecaille.com

SKIN PROUD

SUN SOAKED

INSTITUT ESTHEDERM

Serious Shade SPF 50+ Sunscreen, £16.95 iamproud.com

The best SPFs for skin safety during an Indian summer

Bronz Repair Face Cream, £66 spacenk.com

ANTIPODES Supernatural SPF50+ Ceramide Silk Facial Sunscreen, £34 antipodesnature.com

B y C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

VICHY LABORATOIRES

HELIOCARE Gel Oil-Free SPF 50, £31 heliocare.co.uk

CLÉ DE PEAU BEAUTÉ

Capital Soleil Solar Protective Water SPF50, £20 boots.com

UV Protective Cream SPF 50+, £97, harrods.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

BEAUTY PRODUCTS.indd 49

49

21/08/2024 11:42

10 25km KM OR Chal 55kM leng e

the HAVEN HOUSE

Bike Ride

Sunday 6 October 2024 Help us support seriously ill children by gearing up for an exhilarating charity bike ride in Epping Forest and Lee Valley.

Distance: 10km, 25km or 55km Start time: 8:30am or 10:30am Start and finish: Haven House, IG8 9LB Registration fee: from £12 per person havenhouse.org.uk/bikeride24

Registered Charity no. 1044296 AD HAVEN HOUSE.indd 50

21/08/2024 11:42

HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

GET TOGETHER Moat House Care Home in Great Dunmow welcome mums and babies group

R

esidents at Moat House Care Home near Great Dunmow were delighted to welcome a group of mums and their babies to their home last week.

The sessions, organised

by Wellbeing Coordinator Kerry Pennock, have been very popular and a fantastic way for people from across the generations to meet and socialise together. “At the mother and babies’ group, our residents get involved with the music and singing. It’s a great way to introduce intergenerational care in a fun way. We also use our interactive OMI table to play games, and bond over tea, coffee, and biscuits. It’s a wonderful intergenerational activity that our residents thoroughly enjoy,” says Customer Relations Manager, George Byford. The group provides a regular meeting place for mothers in Great Dunmow, offering support, a chance to make new friends, and opportunities to connect.

Kerry Pennock shared the inspiration behind the group: “It started with an interaction with Charlotte, who attended a similar group in Waltham Abbey, but wanted one closer to home. When she visited our care

home with her baby, Bonnie, she was asleep in her pram. As I was showing Charlotte the lounge where I felt the group would work best, baby Bonnie woke up and saw one of our residents’ walking into the room, her face immediately lit up with a massive smile.

I knew we had to create something for our residents from that moment. Many of our residents’ grandchildren are older, and it’s been a long time since they’ve seen babies.”

“Our residents love chatting about the babies, which sparks memories and conversations,” adds Home Manager, Jade Smith. “It’s a great opportunity for them to have a good chat with different people.

The mothers enjoy having a unique place to meet, and it’s wonderful to see the babies grow. So far, we’ve had babies aged from six months to three and a half years.”

M OAT H O U S E CA R E H O M E If you want to find out more about the Mum and Baby Group at Moat House Care Home, or want to find out more about the care home, they invite you to get in touch with Customer Relations Manager, George Byford, at 07399 062 647 or via email at george.byford@countrycourtcare.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ADVTL COUNTRY COURT.indd 51

51

21/08/2024 11:42

Making sustainable living beautiful

Artisan lighting and furniture handcrafted in England. www.tomraffield.com Showrooms in Cornwall / London

AD Tom Raffield.indd Absolutely London.indd5210

21/08/2024 11:47 21/06/2024 11:03:57

INTERIORS

MIXING it up ANNA MOSS

At Moss Living, they love blending classic and contemporary styles to create a timeless aesthetic. They love to layer and mix textures, colours, patterns and proportions. Ultimately, the spaces in their projects are designed to stand the test of time. annamoss.co.uk

Kate Watson-Smyth 54 • Trend 59 • Kitchen Kit 61 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

INTERIORS OPENER.indd 53

53

21/08/2024 11:47

LIVING ROOM CEILING IN GIARDINO

Shades of

ITALY How interiors writer Kate Watson-Smyth came to design her own collection of paint colours

KATE WATSON-SMYTH

K

ate Watson-Smyth of Mad About the House used to focus mostly on her own home, and her large Edwardian terrace has been a source of inspiration for interiors lovers all over the UK and beyond. When she could think of nothing else to do to her house, she shifted her focus and bought an Italian villa, which she set about restoring and decorating.

And finding that her palette didn’t suit northern Italy, she embarked on another

54

By P E A R L B OY D

project: designing some new paint colours.

So now she has launched a new collection of paints with Graphenstone Purifying Paints. The collection of 12 colours combines the deeply romantic shades of Northern Italy with the softer palette of the British countryside, a palette that has been carefully designed to be combined in endless ways to suit every interior regardless of location.

Kate says: “It has long been a dream in the making – my husband and I have been looking for our own slice of Italian dolce vita for over 30 years, since we met, but they say houses

find you and when we first saw the villa in the pouring rain we both had tears rolling down our cheeks – and it wasn’t the rain, it was perfect.”

The evocative palette of colours has been used throughout the six-bedroom villa in the hills just outside Turin, which will shortly open for design retreats. “To create a bespoke palette of colours inspired by my very own Italian home and in a paint that is kind to both people and the planet is a dream come true.

Each colour is inspired by our love of Italy, a celebration of the passion, style, and joy it has brought to our lives. The colours work

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

KATE WATSON SMYT.indd 54

21/08/2024 11:47

INTERIORS • COLOUR

“Each colour is inspired by Italy, a celebration of the passion, style and joy it has brought to our lives” BATHROOM WITH TILES BY MAITLAND & POETE

THE HOUSE

alone or equally well together in Britain where the light is a little cooler – bringing a softer, romantic and sensual palette to the interior.

Each colour is inspired by Italy. Barolo is the deep red of the famous Piemonte wine, Gelato is a soft plaster pink which tells of summer ice-cream. Ortensia and Giardino reflect the vibrant hydrangeas and dense shrubs in the garden of the noble villa Kate now calls home. Verde Torinese references the darker, forest shades of the surrounding hills. Sole, Lavanda and Oliva bring a softer, effortless Italian style. Kate says: “In my role as an interiors writer and commentator for the past 20 years I have studied every colour palette and my Italian Collection really does combine everything you will ever need alongside being a natural mineral based paint, better for the planet and healthier to live with.”

Patrick Folkesof Graphenstone adds: “Using Kate’s unique interiors knowhow and trained eye, the palette is exquisite and works beautifully with Graphenstone’s sustainable ingredients and raw materials – one of the most certified 'harm-free' mineral paints in the world.”

BEDROOM WALLS IN GELATO

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

KATE WATSON SMYT.indd 55

55

21/08/2024 11:47

S U P P L Y I N G A N D D E S I G N I N G L U X U RY B A T H R O O M S SINCE 1978

0333 011 3333 |

AD WEST ONE.indd 56

21/08/2024 11:47

INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP

w

Feel the

POWER Empowering women’s health with Origin

“Swimming offers a low-impact workout and helps improve bone health”

S

STRESS RELIEF

wimming isn’t just a refreshing pastime, it’s a transformative exercise that champions women’s health and vitality in profound ways. Origin understands the unique benefits swimming offers women of all ages and has crafted indoor pools that enhance these advantages for over 40 years. So, how can swimming significantly impact women’s health?

The rhythmic, meditative nature of swimming can promote relaxation and reduce stress levels by releasing endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good hormones. It’s a meditative activity that calms the mind, alleviates anxiety and improves overall mental well-being. A survey by Swim England reported that 74% of female swimmers felt mentally refreshed after swimming, highlighting its stress-relieving benefits.

CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH

MUSCLE STRENGTH

Heart disease remains a leading cause of mortality among women globally. Regular swimming sessions strengthen the heart muscle and improve circulation, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The ‘Million Women Study’ found that women who swam twice a week had a 20% lower risk of heart disease and stroke. Having an Origin indoor pool at home offers a convenient and effective way to incorporate swimming into your weekly routine.

Swimming engages multiple muscle groups, including the core, arms, legs, and back, promoting strength, endurance, and flexibility. Origin’s pools are designed to facilitate full-body workouts that improve muscle tone and enhance mobility as women age.

Swimming offers a holistic approach to women’s health through its unique combination of physical, mental, emotional and therapeutic benefits. By providing a controlled environment and expertly designed facilities, Origin empowers women to prioritise their health and well-being through the joy of swimming. Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, manage stress, or support your overall health and well-being, swimming offers a myriad of benefits. So, contact Origin today and experience the transformative power of swimming for your body and mind.

BONE HEALTH Women are more prone to osteoporosis and bone density loss, particularly after menopause. Swimming offers a gentle lowimpact workout and helps improve bone health by providing weight-bearing resistance without putting stress on the joints.

HORMONAL BALANCE Swimming has been shown to positively impact hormonal balance in women, particularly during menopause and menstruation during which women will often experience symptoms like hot flushes, mood swings and anxiety. Swimming, especially in cooler water, has been found to alleviate these symptoms by regulating body temperature and releasing stress-relieving hormones.

originpools.co.uk info@originpools.co.uk 01895 453996 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

EDIT.indd 57

57

21/08/2024 11:47

AN ALBION BATH TAKES A LITTLE LONGER

Apollo Bath - Choose 1770 or 2000mm long

Stay warmer in an Albion bath as our Iso-Enamel material will keep your water hotter for longer - and at less than half the weight of cast iron, an Albion bath is easier to locate and install.

albionbathco.com

Made by hand in our Essex factory, all Albion baths are manufactured to order - so in both ways, an Albion bath takes a little longer.

ALBION

Request your brochure of our range of over 50 free standing bath tubs, taps and sanitaryware items.

AD Albion Bath.indd 58

01255 831605

With a range of free standing baths from 1200mm 2000mm long, we’ve got all sizes of bathroom covered.

BAT H CO M PANY HAND MADE IN ENGLAND

21/08/2024 11:47

INTERIORS • TREND

EDITOR’S PICK

TALKING TABLES

CONSIDERED STORE

Blue Glass Candlestick Holder, £14 talkingtables.co.uk

Ikat Tea Towel Handwoven Blue Diamond, £16 considered.store

TORI MURPHY Blue Placemat, £38 torimurphy.com

MOLLY MAHON

EDITOR’S PICK

Teaspoons in navy, £45 mollymahon.com

ICONIC LIGHTS

CULT FURNITURE Amadeus Wire Pendant Ottis Wooden Shade Dining In Chair GoldRoyal , £25 Blue Sustainable Velvet Walnut, £149 iconiclights.co.uk cultfurniture.com

TRUE BLUE

ERCOL Marlia Armchair, £1,090 ercol.com

Statement pieces in everybody's favourite hue

Frida Blue Chalk Paint, £26.95 anniesloan.com

Cage Cordless Floor Light Blue, £566 nicholasengert.co.uk

By P E N D L E H A R T E COX & COX Hammered Gold MESCLA THE MONKEY PUZZLE TREE

ANNIE SLOAN

NICHOLAS ENGERT INTERIORS

MICUCCI INTERIORS Blue Ming Boxes, £900 micucci.store

Bottle Vase, £45 Totemico Medium coxandcox.co.uk Tall Pot, £42 mescla.co.uk

All Tomorrows Futures Fringed Cushion Ocean Blue, £150 themonkeypuzzletree.com

AUDENZA Aged Metal Butterfly Mirror, £198 audenza.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

PRODUCTS BLUE.indd 59

59

21/08/2024 11:47

SBI Ltd has been providing all of your shelter and shading requirements, since 1998

0800 0742 721 | sbiproducts.co.uk

Verandas • Glass Rooms • Awnings • Pergolas Carports • Solar Garage Doors & Shutters • Parasols • Conservatory Sail Blinds Glass Wind Screens for patios, awnings, verandas and parasols !

We provide comprehensive awning services, f rom cleaning and repairs to seasonal maintenance.

Get in touch today for the highest quality awning servicing!

SBI_HP_ABS_NOV2023.indd 1

16/10/2023 10:01

CREATE YOUR DREAM HOME WITH SEH BAC

Make your home a masterpiece of elegance and comfort to truly enhance your property and create your dream living space.

Contact us today for a quote or visit your nearest showcentre to view our full range of products and discounts available 2 Stanway Retail Park, Peartree Road, Colchester, CO3 0LX

50

0800 666 444 www.sehbac.com

Poplar Nuseries, Coggeshall Road, Marks Tey, Colchester, CO6 1HR As part of One Group Construction.

◆

WINDOWS

AD SBI - SEHBAC.indd 60

|

DOORS

|

CONSERVATORIES

|

EXTENSIONS

21/08/2024 11:47

INTERIORS • KITCHEN KIT

STYLISH ESSENTIALS ELEGANT ADDITIONS FOR THE KITCHEN 1

H OT S H OT SMEG

Smeg has been inspired by its home nation’s love of coffee and has added the Mini Pro Espresso Coffee Machine to its portfolio.

Professional level performance and design excellence combine into a compact professional espresso machine. smeguk.com

1

2

P OT LU C K S TAU B

New to the range of Staub's cast iron Dutch ovens is this stylish sage shade. Collect them in all sizes and colours for a full kitchen complement. zwilling.com

2

3

WA S T E N OT JOSEPH JOSEPH

This nift y stainless steel food waste bin looks appealing on a counter and features an odour-cancelling insert as well as a snug caddy-liner holder. josephjoseph.com

3 4

4

LET OFF STEAM

5

AARKE

This could be the ultimate kettle.

Not only does it look sleek and shiny, but it features a removeable limescale feature and lots of temperature options – plus it's the quietest one we've ever heard. aarke.com

5

IN THE MIX ZWILLING

Zwilling's Power Blender comes in a sleek silver finish and features a specially developed stainless steel winglet blade with piranha teeth for effortless blending and longevity.

Six automatic programmes make light work of pulsing, smoothie making, cocktails, ice-cream, ice crushing and even cleaning. zwilling.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

PRODUCTS KITCHEN.indd 61

61

21/08/2024 11:47

Garden Kitchens • Planting Schemes Paving & Brickwork Decking • Water Features Garden Lighting • Adventure & Play Areas • Driveways 01277 890 585 themanorlandscapes.co.uk

MANOR_LANDSCAPES_QP_ABS_ESSEX_APR2024_FINAL.indd 1

AD MANOR - AJOUPA - BFS.indd 62

07/03/2024 10:49

21/08/2024 11:48

INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP

or bathroom at the time, and other trades were working in the home too.

Good Energy communicated brilliantly, and worked well alongside the other trades to make sure that their work was compatible with the plumbing and electrics elsewhere in the house.

Because our home is effectively airtight, the Good Energy team were extremely careful with the fabric of the building while they were installing our air source heat pump.

They managed this by predetermining entry points into the home so that we could mitigate the impact to the airtightness.

Q What’s it like living with a heat pump?

A From the minute the heating has gone on,

Green House

Exploring an ordinary abode turned eco-home

R

ichard works for a national construction company. Inspired by the eco-facilities they have built, he wanted to apply the same standards and technologies to his family home renovation. Together with his wife, Rachel, he’s taken an ordinary 1960s home and turned it into an eco-home, heated by a Good Energy heat pump. Here, he shares his green home story with us.

Q What inspired you to build an eco-home?

A We are very sustainably minded. When we landed here, caught the view and looked at the property, it just struck us that we could do something with it. We wanted the home to be sustainable and efficient, so getting rid of fossil fuels was a must. That’s why we got a heat pump.

we have had a comfortable environment in here with no glitches, which has been great!

I’ve been impressed with Good Energy’s after care too. After monitoring my heat pump’s performance remotely, they suggested some changes they could make to improve its efficiency. This involved remotely adjusting our heating curve to provide a more constant, lower level of heat – reducing our running costs without impacting our comfort at all.

Get a personalised heat pump estimate in just two minutes - see more at heat.goodenergy.co.uk Find out more about Good Energy heat pumps at goodenergy.co.uk

Q How does your heat pump work alongside your other eco-upgrades to keep your home warm and efficient?

A We’ve worked hard to make the building warm – using lots of insulation; and airtight by covering the walls in a vapour proof membrane. To prevent moisture and mould, we’ve installed Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery throughout the house. As well as removing the moisture, this technology recovers the heat energy from the moist air, and pushes the warm dry air back through the house, providing ambient warmth.

The final step to getting a warm, efficient home was to install an air source heat pump, which captures heat energy from the outside air and transfers it to our underfloor heating and hot water tank using electricity.

Q Tell us about your heat pump

installation…

A Our heat pump installation took place

over three days. We had no kitchen

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

EDIT.indd 63

63

21/08/2024 11:48

AD STOKE COLLEGE.indd 64

21/08/2024 11:48

SPECI A L

FULL STEAM AHEAD M A LV E R N ST JA M E S

Malvern St James Girls' School is a leading independent day and boarding school for pupils aged 3-18. What makes them distinct and refreshing is their recognition and active support for the individual talents, interests and passions of girls, and the liberating and inclusive ethos the school embraces. Turn to page 70 to find out more. malvernstjames.co.uk

Inside this section TA L K I N G H E A D 6 6 A L L - G I R L S E D U C AT I O N 7 0 T H E J OY O F P G L T R I P S 7 3

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

EDUCATION SPECIA.indd 65

65

21/08/2024 11:48

e d u c a t i o n

FOR LIFE Saint Nicholas School Head Terence Ayres on happy returns, a tailored approach and pupils growing up with them

Q Can you give us a brief history of Saint Nicholas School?

A The school was founded in 1939 in a group of buildings set in the heart of Churchgate Street in Old Harlow. Its purpose was to serve the local children of Old Harlow and the surrounding villages and it quickly built up a strong reputation for its high academic standards and excellent pastoral care.

In 1977, the school moved to Hillingdon House, an Edwardian country house, to accommodate the growth in pupil numbers and demand for places. The school has continued to grow and develop, and since 1977 there has been a number of building developments, including purpose built infant, junior and STEM buildings, a sports hall and theatre, and, most recently, our new Rocking Horse Nursery for babies from three months old.

Q Today, what does the school offer?

A Our pupils are at the heart of everything

we do and it is our privilege to guide them on a tailored journey to discover their talents and unlock their true potential. Alongside an enriching and engaging curriculum that nurtures intellectual curiosity, Saint Nicholas strongly promotes the creative arts – the school’s art and drama departments are

66

exceptional – outdoor learning, which is one of the school’s core strengths, and provides an outstanding extra-curricular programme.

Q How long have you been Head?

A This is my second tenure at Saint Nicholas,

but my first as Headmaster, where I have been in post for two years and a term. My first tenure at the school lasted seven years, where I was initially appointed as Head of Junior School before being promoted to the role of Deputy Head of School. Saint Nicholas is my third headship, I was previously the Headmaster of both Thorpe House and Leehurst Swan School, and I have always felt Saint Nicholas has been a home from home for me. I have known some of our current pupils since they were born! There is a genuine warmth and ‘down to earth’ nature that makes it accessible and appealing.

Q Can you sum up your approach to teaching?

A In one word: ‘Tailored’. We know our pupils, as Headmaster that is essential and another of our core strengths, and this being the case, we can provide an individual, learning journey that supports, challenges and inspires each pupil. As a through school, we have an in-depth knowledge of the requirements and demands placed on pupils at GCSE level, and we take a top-down approach to the planning and teaching of the curriculum, to ensure that our pupils achieve their potential at 16. Year 5 pupils TERENCE AYRES

“VERY FEW SCHOOLS OFFER A JOURNEY SIMILAR TO GROWING UP IN A FAMILY HOME”

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

TALKING HEAD ST.indd 66

21/08/2024 11:48

• TALKING • XXXXX EDUCATION XXXXXXXX HEAD

are taught as Year 6 and there is a knock-on effect on the lower years, with Year 5 being taught as Year 4, and so on and so forth.

Our early years provision is structured to provide a balanced mix of academic, physical and creative experiences, with development of the three Rs (reading, writing and arithmetic) sitting front and centre of a curriculum that is fun, engaging and challenging in Reception at four-years-old.

Year 6 at Saint Nicholas School constitutes our first year of seniors, and our GCSE courses are delivered over three years rather than two, which affords us the luxury of providing our oldest pupils with plenty of enrichment, excellence and enjoyment, alongside meeting all the demands of the GCSE courses.

Q What might we find at Saint Nicholas that is a little different from the norm?

A I think the environment we offer is very different from the ‘norm’. Lots of schools offer an education that spans the same age range, but very few offer a journey that is similar to growing up in a family home.

The school’s Senior Leadership Team are responsible for all age groups, there is no Head of Pre-Prep, Prep or Seniors, and as a team we are accountable for each

pupil’s personal and academic growth.

Each member of the senior leadership team, including myself as Head, knows each and every pupil and we strive to provide the educational journey that we would demand for our own children.

Q Do you offer plenty outside of the classroom?

A Our outdoor learning, adventurous activity provision and extra-curricular programme are amongst our core strengths, and are all elements that I am passionate about as a Headmaster. Both our Forest School for lower school pupils aged 2-8, which includes a purpose-built mud kitchen, eco-garden and bushcraft area, and our adventurous activity programme for middle and upper school pupils aged 10-16, which includes participation in DofE bronze and silver award, provide pupils with the opportunity to develop essential life-skills.

Q Do you have many pupils who stay

with you from nursery to upper school?

A Affectionately known as ‘Lifers’, we have a great number of pupils who started with us in Reception and go all the way through to Year 11. I held last academic year’s Head Girl when she was born, I have known seven of our

current Year 11 since they were four-years-old and I taught a handful of our parents, during my first tenure at the school, who have now chosen to have their children educated at Saint Nicholas, which makes me feel ancient!

As far as nursery is concerned, our preschool celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, so we still await our first nursery lifer!

Q When pupils leave you, what do you hope they take with them?

A Happy memories, confidence in who they are and the positive difference they can make in the lives of others, and a strong desire to continually strive to be better.

saintnicholasschool.net A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

TALKING HEAD ST.indd 67

67

21/08/2024 11:48

AD NEW HALL.indd 68

21/08/2024 11:48

EDUCATION • FOCUS

L A N G U AG E O F

FO O D

C

ookery in schools is an opportunity to educate in nutrition, food hygiene, and kitchen safety. However, its potential in aiding cultural and language learning was not lost on New Hall School’s Modern Languages Department. Armed with an array of their favourite recipes, teachers took to the drawing board, developing lessons packed with experiential language learning and practical vocabulary use.

In specialised Modern Languages Cookery lessons, cultural experience combines with the culinary arts for an innovative approach towards learning French, Spanish and Chinese.

All lessons are taught entirely in the target language, for the full immersion experience.

New Hall’s brilliant initiative was recognised in the Muddy Stilettos Best Schools Awards in the category of ‘Best Experiential Learning’, making it the only Essex school to win an award in this year’s competition. With over 500 schools entering in 2024, the awards run by Muddy Stilettos’ lifestyle platform and magazine are judged by an esteemed panel of headteachers and educational experts from across the UK.

Why New Hall School has been recognised for ‘Modern Languages Cookery’ It was an exciting time for aspiring chefs and linguists alike when New Hall opened a brandnew second Cookery Room this academic year, with 12 workstations accommodating up to 20 students, each complete with a 4-piece induction hob, an oven, and full-crockery set. New Hall’s pioneering experiential culinary, language and culture lessons are woven seamlessly into the Modern Languages curriculum.

They certainly add a delicious twist to the timetable, with Year 7 classes having fortnightly lessons, and other year groups currently enjoying lessons coinciding with important dates or celebrations. Chefs joined together to make dumplings for Chinese New Year, according to their teacher’s secret family recipe, while French students packed the Cookery Room for Mardi Gras, learning about Francophone traditions from around the world through the delicious medium of crêpes. A weekly Spanish Cookery Club allows students to create delicious treats and learn about the story behind each recipe, travelling the Hispanophone world one tapa at a time.

The idea was the brainchild of Katherine Jeffrey, Principal of New Hall School. Katherine has been delighted at the success of the programme, recognised in the Muddy’s Awards.

“The response to this style of learning has exceeded all expectations – students are engaged and enthusiastic,” she says. “They have made exceptional progress in their language learning, culinary skills and cultural appreciation. This has got to be the most fun that can be had learning a new language! We hope the success of this award-winning original initiative sets a new example of language teaching practice across the education sector, helping to reverse the downward national trend in modern languages.”

This year, New Hall’s language trips to France and Spain were completely filled in each year group, from Year 7 to Year 13. A testament to the success of the initiative, dozens of happy students reported successfully cooking with their host families, finding it easy to ‘passer le poivre’ [fr. pass the pepper] or ‘corta el pan’ [es. cut the bread], even practising their newly acquired culinary vocabulary while ordering in the local restaurants.

We certainly agree that ‘a way to a person’s heart is through their stomach’ – at New Hall School, the award-winning experiential learning through cookery develops a love of language, culture, and many delicious new meals. newhallschool.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

NEW HALL SCHOOL.indd 69

69

21/08/2024 11:48

D O U B L E

VISION Malvern St James Girls’ School is a special place, as highlighted by two different perspectives about the benefits of all-girls’ education

70

MSJ.indd 70

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

21/08/2024 11:48

EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

HEAD GIRL RUQAYYA

RUQAYYA Head Girl at Malvern St James Girls' School

DR GARETH LLOYD Head of Malvern St James Girls' School Q How long have you been Head of Malvern St James?

A I started as Head on 1 January 2024, and have absolutely loved every minute of it. Allgirls’ schools are such fantastic communities, and Malvern is one of the most beautiful places in the world to live, so how could I NOT be attracted to working at MSJ?!

Q What immediately struck you the first time you visited the school?

A The warmth of welcome from everyone – staff and pupils alike – was immediately apparent. There is a tremendous sense of kindness that permeates the whole school.

Q Have you had much experience of working in all-girls’ schools?

A My ten happiest years were as Director of Music and Housemaster at an all-girls’ school, but I am predicting that my time at MSJ will become my new happiest years! I have worked as both teacher and Head at

DR GARETH LLOYD

single boys’, single girls’ and co-educational schools, and by far my most rewarding experience has been in all-girls’ settings.

Q At Malvern St James, what opportunities do your girls have that they may not get in a mixed school?

A Malvern St James strives to allow each and every girl to thrive, to discover talents and skills and, most importantly, to be herself in a safe and happy environment. So many of our pupils opt for STEM A-levels and, thereafter, degrees – statistically, far more than in co-educational settings. I rejoice to see so many of our girls really commit themselves to the wide range of sports we offer, not at all self-conscious as I have observed as both a Head and inspector in coeducational schools. Opportunities to assume leadership roles commence from Year 5, and are carefully developed throughout the senior school, to help our girls grow into highly confident and competent young women, prepared for life after school.

Q Is there more peer support in a single sex school?

A Good peer support at any good school should be the norm. Clearly, there are differences between co-educational and all-girls’ schools. At the latter, there is never any awkwardness, embarrassment or selfconsciousness in the conversations that our girls may wish to have with each other. As we have a strict policy of no mobile phones in school, it is wonderfully liberating not to be distracted by the all-too frequent unkindness that social media platforms can bring about. Through the peer support system in place via our Form structure, the girls experience empathy and encouragement that build confidence on so many levels.

Q Are you aware of the differences of being at an all-girls’ school?

A Having experienced both environments, I would say yes. Being at an all-girls’ school, we are more confident, largely because we are more comfortable. This makes learning a lot easier and a lot more fun for the students and staff alike, as there is equal engagement from everyone. Here, my gender does not limit what subjects I should be good at or what sports I should enjoy.

Q What opportunities have you had that you may not have had elsewhere?

A The opportunity to meet people from all over the world. From connecting with current students, to past ones through the Old Girls’ Association, I’ve started building my global network from such a young age. It’s very exciting and also comforting to think that no matter where life takes me there will almost always be an MSJ girl who can guide me.

Q As a Head Girl, do you take pride in helping

the younger girls at the school blossom?

A Definitely. Even before becoming Head Girl I always enjoyed interacting with the younger girls and helping them in any way possible, so I highly appreciate the fact that it’s now part of my role. I was once that younger girl, so I know how impactful it can be to have someone slightly older who has been through similar experiences that is always there to help.

Q How would you sum up the environment at Malvern St James?

A Malvern St James is a community before it is anything else. Boarding or day, local or international, student or staff; we are all connected and working together to make the MSJ experience the best possible for everyone.

malvernstjames.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

MSJ.indd 71

71

21/08/2024 11:48

AD OAKTREE SCHOOL.indd 72

21/08/2024 11:48

X X X X •/ACTIVITIES XXXXXX EDUCATION SPECIALIST CAMPS LET KIDS PURSUE THEIR PASSIONS, WHILE EXPLORE! CAMPS OFFER 40+ ACTIVITIES TO TRY

BIG

a d v e n t u r e s A trusted provider of school trips, PGL also offers brilliant Kids’ Adventure Camps – fun, memory making and new skills for them, plus time off for you

P

GL is the go-to name for school-organised activity trips, trusted for over 65 years and working with many top schools. But it also offers Kids’ Adventure Camps for children aged 8-16 in half-terms and holidays.

During the summer break, these camps took place in 12 idyllic locations, and with a great range of activities to choose from.

Children learn cool new skills and make memories, while parents get a break and the opportunity to cover off some holiday childcare. The camps are all inclusive – so that’s accommodation and food, activities (with

expert tuition) plus 24/7 care and pastoral support. There are generous discounts if you book more than one child or holiday (from 15% for two to a mighty 35% for five), which is a great incentive for families or friends to get together and multibuy – and many do.

Discover! camps (day to three night) are great for children with less time or those who want a taster of independent travel. Then there are Explore! camps (four to seven night), with 40+ outdoor activities. Specialist Trailblaze! camps are for pursuing a passion or adding something really useful to their skillset. From baking and bushcraft to pony trekking and surfing, there are 13 amazing options to choose from, each mixed in with traditional PGL outdoor fun. You’ll

even find specialist learner driver courses for 13+ camp goers, and an ‘Adrenaline Quest’ for the 11+ cohort – the former gives a head start in a really useful life skill, while the latter combines white-knuckle rides at top theme parks with adventure at PGL sites.

PGL’s own research points to the fact that children don’t crave rest over the holidays, but a change of scene and the opportunity to spread their wings. The way camps are organised by age makes it easy for children to turn up and make friends. Lots of children travel with a sibling or friend, and PGL even has bookings from cousins at different ends of the country who meet in the middle for an action-packed reunion. It’s popular, too, with international families. Often, the overseas cohort will combine a Trailblaze! specialist camp with another week of Explore! activities.

PGL started out with canoeing adventures in the 1950s, organised by one Peter Gordon Lawrence (children still love to think the acronym stands for ‘Parents Get Lost’). Often parents who book have fond memories of their own PGL trips and want their children to experience this same safe outdoor fun. It has a whole host of accreditations, including Ofsted and BAPA, and it’s also registered with ABTA. The locations are glorious – from Suffolk, Dorset and Shropshire to Perthshire and rural Wales. There’s even the option of PGL-escorted travel for the journey there and/or back, with convenient pick-up points.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

PGL.indd 73

73

21/08/2024 11:48

EDUCATION • ACTIVITIES

CHILDREN LEARN NEW SKILLS WITH EXPERT TUITION

“You’ll even find specialist learner driver courses for 13+ camp goers, and an ‘Adrenaline Quest’ for the 11+ cohort”

74

Every centre is unique, and you’ll find a mix of modern and historic properties with lovely grounds. Accommodation is simple but comfortable and tailored to children and groups – the holiday luxury here is having so many activities on tap, led by expert guides.

Kids’ Adventure Camps are popular with independent-school parents, not just for the adventures, but also the opportunities to mix with young people from different backgrounds and localities. The fact that it’s an all-inclusive set-up (all children need is a bit of pocket money) is a great leveller. Each camp has Group Leaders who manage pastoral care – helping children settle and socialise and checking in regularly. They are used to relating to young people and can work wonders with the reluctant vegetable eater or the child who is hesitant in new situations.

PGL works to be as inclusive as possible and is proud that last year 10% of children attending Adventure Camp independently had a disclosed SEND. PGL advisors work closely with families to ensure individual needs can be met. If children aren’t ready to go it alone (or alone just yet), they may recommend bringing a sibling or buddy or starting out with parents on a PGL Family Adventure.

For parents, Kids’ Adventure Camps offer the peace of mind of knowing children are busy, making friends and being active. Children, meanwhile, get a change of scene and routine.

Oh, and don’t forget their bragging rights back at school. Finally, they get to answer that ‘what did you do over the holidays?’ question with their own long list of epic adventures – all of them achieved without Mum or Dad in tow.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

74 | A B S O LU T E LY E D U C AT I O N | XXXXX 2018

PGL.indd 74

21/08/2024 11:48

AD MALVERN ST JAMES.indd 75

21/08/2024 11:48

Choosing the right school is a big decision.

Our Open Mornings will show you first-hand the vibrant and varied life our students enjoy. Come along to see why you can #ExpectMore for your child at Thorpe Hall School.

OUR UPCOMING OPEN MORNINGS Fri 4th Oct - Senior School Working Day Sat 12th Oct - Nursery and Prep Thu 7th Nov - Senior School Working Day Fri 15th Nov - Prep Working Day For details and to register, visit www.thorpehallschool.co.uk

Award-winning local independent education for boys and girls aged 2 - 16

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

EXCEPTIONAL PASTORAL CARE

OUTSTANDING OPPORTUNITIES

Join us in celebrating our centenary T: 01702 582340 | www.thorpehallschool.co.uk Wakering Road | Southend-on-Sea | Essex | SS1 3RD

AD Open THORPE 7624 v3.indd 1 TH DayHALL.indd ads Oct _Nov

21/08/2024 13:43 11:50 13/08/2024

EDUCATION • FEATURE

ROWING AT KEW HOUSE

ACTION PACKED Sport is great for health, but how does its competitive edge feed into a positive culture? Schools give us their take on its role in pupil success

Kew House School

S

port fosters a sense of community at Kew House. The school says that celebrating wins, supporting teams and individuals, and recognising achievements all promote a positive culture around sport – also reinforcing ideas around teamwork, dedication, and perseverance. But the school believes it’s also vital to teach children that failure is a natural part of both sport and life. The emphasis here is on effort rather than simply outcome, and teachers and coaches provide constructive feedback to help young people cope with setbacks and build resilience.

The support is designed to help young people to reflect, set realistic goals, and focus on continuous improvement. Not all children are naturally gifted at sport, and there’s emphasis on inclusivity and variety – helping children discover sports and activities they enjoy and may excel in. That’s

why the school maintains a compulsory curriculum time for girls and boys to be playing together in Core PE lessons.

The sports team know that providing a variety of choices of sport, emphasising skills development over competition, will give encouragement to less able or willing students works. It’s about reinforcing the value of participation and personal improvement rather than just winning. All abilities get the opportunity to participate in inter-school fixtures against carefully matched teams throughout the school

“Sport helps to shape young people's attitudes and values”

year to highlight the fun and camaraderie of a competitive sporting environment.

For young people on an elite sports pathway, there’s the school’s Top Performing Athlete Program (TPAP), offering guidance on goal setting, time management, and coping with setbacks such as injury or de-selection.

It includes sound advice around physical development – including the importance of continuing education, maintaining wellbeing and building life skills to prepare for alternative pathways and a future beyond sports.

The team say that sport is an essential and vibrant element of the school community, but also helps to shape young people’s attitudes, skills and values. By fostering inclusivity, resilience, and a passion for physical activity, it helps young people to promote their personal development and ability to thrive in the future.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

SPORTS.indd 77

77

21/08/2024 11:51

EDUCATION • FEATURE

draws and losses. It is important to recognise all competition and sometimes the best received reports are losses where teams have given their all. This public recognition is important and encourages players to represent their team, the school and, most importantly, their peers,” says Andy.

Reed’s encourages young people to aspire to sports leadership roles. “The skill of coaches and teachers in schools is to try and provide opportunity for success, but also learning how to deal with losing, coping with adversity, and overcoming any fear of failure,” says Andy.

“Communication of selection is vital face-toface, as indeed is rewarding effort, not just the outcome.” He adds that it’s important not to shy away from the effort involved in all competition. “Without it, sport becomes play.

Success isn’t just about winning, as nice as that is, it is about the hard work behind the scenes.”

Tonbridge School

ATHLETICS AT REED'S

Reed’s School

A

t Reed’s in Surrey, there’s long been great success in sport – with recent wins in areas such as hockey, tennis, ski racing and golf, alongside swimming and athletics. But Director of Sport, Andy Watts, says that wins aren’t the only measure of success at school level – and sometimes they aren’t the best measure. “Setting up fixtures that include challenges is vital, as it builds resilience, helps with problem solving and encourages different ways to overcome adversity.”

The school offers team sports from A-F level and beyond, and with an expectation that all pupils are involved on Saturdays for sport in First and Second Forms (Years 7 and 8). Coaching and facilities, and matching players to teams with comparable depth, support success but also build up other skills.

“Involvement in sport only enhances what happens in the classroom. Developing time management skills, working collaboratively with others, and stepping out of your comfort zone can all contribute to academic progress,” he says. “Being involved in a wide range of activities, such as sport, music, and drama, is crucial to pupil welfare and wellbeing.”

Reed’s has highly ambitious pupils in sport, who may start their day in the gym, fitting in one-to-one technical sessions in their free periods and then committing evenings and weekends to training and competing. “This level of dedication is one of

78

the most impressive aspects of the modern pupil athlete,” says Andy. But it isn’t just pupils pursuing elite sports pathways who commit time to improve – the school has noticed increasing demand for its Strength & Conditioning programme across the cohort.

Success is recognised weekly via assemblies.

“Captains read out all results: the wins,

“Success isn't just about winning, it's about hard work”

A

t Tonbridge, sport is part of day-to-day life. “Sport is integral to our school’s ethos, with all students engaging in activities at least three times weekly,” says Director of Sport, Chris Morgan. “We believe it fosters character development, offering equal opportunities for personal growth regardless of skill level or team affiliation.”

National and international achievements significantly influence Tonbridge pupils’ enthusiasm about sport. All the better when you have alumni to get behind. Current OTs shining bright include Ben Earl in rugby and Zak Crawley in cricket – both now England regulars. “They serve as inspiring role models, driving increased interest and participation,” adds Chris. Those on a potential elite sports pathway receive tailored support through the school’s mentorship programme. This includes guidance from performance coaches, lectures and staff members who have navigated similar

RUGBY AT TONBRIDGE

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

SPORTS.indd 78

21/08/2024 11:51

Saint Nicholas School

SAINT NICHOLAS

An independent co-educational day school for children from 3 months to 16 years. Strong academic ethos, excellent pastoral care, competitive fee structure and wraparound care.

Open Morning, Saturday 5th October 9am - 10am: Explore our Nursery, Pre-School, and Reception provision.

10am - 12 noon: Discover Year 1 through Year 11.

To book your place or for further information, contact admissions@saintnicholasschool.net or call 01279 429910 | www.saintnicholasschool.net

AD ST NICHOLAS.indd St Nicholas School - Open79Morning Oct 2024 Absolutely West Essex A4 Ad_Final.indd 1

9/2/2024 8:31:43 AM 09/07/2024 14:38

EDUCATION • FEATURE

OAKHAM SCHOOL MIXED U15 CRICKET

elite challenges. “This holistic approach prepares students to aim high while equipping them with strategies to manage setbacks.”

Winners and losers both deserve positive feedback, and the focus here is on building a supportive culture. “Coaches, supported by teachers, provide context and understanding, emphasising the broader educational value of sports,” says Chris.

The Tonbridge team know that the lessons learnt in sport translate into the classroom and help students confront fear of failure.

“These sports experiences equip them with essential life skills, fostering adaptability and perseverance in facing challenges.”

Not every child can be (or aspires to be) top in games. “We promote a culture that values participation and emphasises the broader educational benefits of sports,” says Chris. There are some 20 sports here – all the mainstream choices plus more offbeat options such as fives, ultimate frisbee and rackets. In the ‘major’ sports the school regularly field 25 rugby teams, 14 hockey teams, 17 football teams and 17 cricket sides on weekend fixtures.

Tonbridge’s ultimate aim is to engender a love of sport that lasts into adult life. By that marker, they are definitely winners. “The OT cricket side has won the Cricketer Cup more than any other school, the OT Golf side has won the prestigious Halford Hewitt the most times, and the OT football club has continued to grow in recent years and now, on a weekly basis, fields two sides,” says Chris.

80

Oakham School

A

t Oakham, sport is a fundamental part of school life – every child has at least three sessions a week. But Director of Sport, Dr Iain Simpson, says there’s something much more. “It provides a buzz to the school campus on match days when hundreds of pupils take to the playing fields, the pitches, the courts, and the pool to compete.”

With around 50 inter-house sporting competitions each year, pupils are encouraged to take part and support their peers. All abilities get the chance to play regular matches against other schools – it’s as busy for the D team as their A team counterparts – all celebrated in the Oakhamian annual magazine via a season report.

Oakham has many pupils playing for academies or on sporting pathways. “We formally support and recognise these

“The child who overcomes challenges is equipped to do the same in the classroom”

achievements at our annual Sports Colours Presentation ceremony. When our 1st XV boys’ rugby team won the National Schools Cup at Twickenham for the third time in 2023, 850 pupils, parents and staff travelled to London to watch them compete,” says Iain. The school community was also out in force when the U16 girls’ hockey team carried off silver in the final of the Tier 1 National Cup Competition in March.

The players in winning teams become role models to those in the school, as do elite athletes at national and international level.

“The most powerful role models are people like themselves,” says Iain. With that in mind, Oakham also celebrates alumni who have gone on to great things, inviting them back to talk to pupils or run coaching sessions, something that has a massive impact. “For example, when England rugby player Jack Van Poortvliet returned to visit his old House and talk to pupils in Years 7 and 8, it was hugely motivational.”

Not everything ends in triumph – and Iain believes it’s far better to have competitions that are closely fought and some even lost when it comes to life lessons. “We reframe the idea of failing and view it as simply not achieving everything that we set out to do,” he says. “It is really important that we challenge our pupils so that they encounter a mixture of success and failure and are equipped to react to both in a way that is reflective, positive and purposeful.”

This translates back into the classroom.

“As part of Oakham School’s Connected Curriculum, we overtly teach the skills, behaviours, and habits that young people learn through sport and show our pupils how they are transferrable into so many parts of their lives,” adds Iain. “The child who learns to set targets and work hard towards challenges in their sporting environment and to problem solve and overcome those challenges is then equipped to do the same thing in the classroom and beyond.”

OAKHAM SCHOOL U16 GIRLS CELEBRATING AFTER REACHING THE TIER 1 CUP NATIONAL FINALS

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

SPORTS.indd 80

21/08/2024 11:51

Prepared. For Everything.

Winners: The Top 20 Day Nurseries Award 2024 ISA Junior School of the Year Award Finalists 2023

Open Week

Monday 23 – Friday 27 September To book your place visit www.stmargaretsprep.com

AD ST MARGARETS.indd 81

An independent school for children aged 2 – 11 years.

21/08/2024 11:51

AD BRENTWOOD SCHOOL.indd 82

21/08/2024 11:51

XXXXXXXX • XXXXX

New beginnings Absolutely meets the incoming Head of Brentwood Prep School, Alice Goodfellow

Q Can you give us a brief history

of Brentwood School?

A Brentwood School was founded in 1557 by Sir Antony Browne. The first Headmaster, George Otway, was appointed, and in 1622 the School Statutes were signed. The statutes declared that pupils should be instructed in Virtue, Learning and Manners, which are values still embodied today.

The Preparatory School opened in 1892 for boys only. Initially located at the Senior School, the Prep moved to Middleton Hall in 1949. Boarding was originally available for all Prep-aged pupils but ended in 1992. The school transitioned to co-education in 1999.

In 2003, the Prep School expanded with new building developments and a decade later, the Pre-Preparatory School and Preparatory School merged, creating a seamless educational experience for children aged 3 to 11.

The Prep School celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2017 with a service at Brentwood Cathedral and a Ball. In 2018, the Prep School announced a multi-million pound refurbishment and extension project which included fullday Foundation Year (3+) provision and wraparound care from 7.30am to 6pm. This development was completed in 2020.

Q Today, what does the school offer?

A We take great pride in our Prep School

offering a wide range of opportunities both inside and outside the classroom.

Our curriculum is evolving, and we are excited to be part of the global community of schools delivering the Primary Years Programme (PYP) as part of the International Baccalaureate. The PYP places children at the centre of their learning, encouraging them to be active creators of transdisciplinary

knowledge. It nurtures curious and driven learners who ask thought-provoking questions and aspire to make the world a better place for everyone. This exciting phase builds on the excellent teaching and facilities we already provide.

Our Co-Curricular offer is quite exceptional and we certainly benefit from being a tied-house as this gives the Prep pupils opportunities with all the experts from the Senior School, such as fencing club with our professional fencing coaches. We ensure that we have a range of clubs and activities on offer across four broad headings: Arts, Community, Enrichment, and Sport.

Q What is your background at Brentwood School?

A Having worked at Brentwood School for just over five years as Deputy Head Staffing, Co-Curricular and Operations at A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ADVTL BRENTWOOD.indd 83

83

21/08/2024 11:51

EDUCATION • TALKING HEAD

“My approach to teaching is to put the pupils in the driving seat” the Senior School, I commence my Headship at the Preparatory School in September 2024. Brentwood School’s commitment to developing the pupils holistically and going beyond academic success is a significant draw for me. There are clear advantages to being at a school as old as Brentwood; 75 acres of green playing fields and our own woods, whilst being only a stone’s throw from London is quite a rare find. Coupled with a forward looking approach and progressive attitude, working at Brentwood School means it is possible to be at the forefront of educational thinking.

Q Can you sum up your

approach to teaching?

A In two words: playful-exploration. My approach to teaching is to put the pupils in the driving seat so they own their learning and want to become masters of the subject knowledge and skills. We (the pupils and I) do this through imaginative and engaging activities that fuel their curiosity so they are brimming with questions and ideas.

I like to move from expert at the front to collaborator at the side. Learning should be an adventure and all the time allowing the pupils’ inquisitive nature to flourish.

Underlying this is the capitalising of all and every opportunity to develop the pupils as enthusiastic readers, as is stretching their range of communication skills. The world these pupils will enter when they leave us will require them to be adaptable in their approach, self-driven, excellent collaborators and outstanding communicators.

84

Q What might we find at Brentwood School

that is a little different from the norm?

A Our 75-acre campus boasts a wealth of facilities, including our own swimming pool, running track, and state-of-the-art STEAM facilities. A highlight is our Futures Room, designed for experimentation and STEAM enrichment. It offers access to VR and robotic technology and features a green screen that can instantly transform scenes from the solar system to the ocean depths with the push of a button.

Q Do you offer plenty outside

of the classroom?

A Our extensive club programme offers

numerous after-school and lunchtime activities, allowing pupils to explore creative and physical interests. Our co-curricular programme, ACES (Arts, Community, Enrichment, Sports), encourages diverse

participation with options like Dance, Meditation, Tennis, Orchestra, Yoga, Sign Language, and Karate. With over 100 clubs weekly for KS1 and KS2 pupils, there’s something for everyone.

We ensure a safe, inclusive community where each pupil is valued. Our range of opportunities helps pupils reach their potential, enjoy learning, and achieve the best academic outcomes. As pupils advance through Brentwood School, their co-curricular activities balance academic studies and prepare them for varied interests in Senior School.

Our Academic Enrichment programme fosters a lasting thirst for knowledge.

Activities include Forest School, STEAM themes, Leadership Skills, Wellbeing and AIM Higher workshops when we invite local schools to the Prep. These activities stimulate subject passions and broaden interests and knowledge.

Additionally, classroom learning challenges and extends all pupils, with teachers dedicated to igniting and nurturing their passion for subjects.

Q Do you have many pupils who stay

with you from nursery to upper school?

A We are fortunate to have many pupils

continue their education at Brentwood School, becoming long-term members of our community from the age of 3 through to 18 and beyond, when they join our alumni network and become proud 'Old Brentwoods'.

ALICE GOODFELLOW

brentwoodschool.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ADVTL BRENTWOOD.indd 84

21/08/2024 11:51

AUTUMN OPEN DAYS Friday 20th September – All day Saturday 21st September – 08:30 - 11:30 Tuesday 3rd December – All day Saturday 7th December – 08:30 - 11:20

NOW RANKED 22nd BEST PREP SCHOOL

by The Sunday Times Up seven places from last years rankings

AD URSULINE.indd 85 URSULINE_FP_ABS_ESSEX_SEPT2024.indd 1

URSULINE_FEB22.indd 1 URSULINE.indd 1

21/08/2024 06/08/2024 11:51 12:43

21/01/2022 03/09/2021 12:42 15:58

AN EXCEPTIONAL , START TO YOUR CHILD S FUTURE AGES 2½ TO 11

WRAPAROUND CARE

SMALL CLASS SIZES

OPEN MORNING

TUESDAY 24 SEPTEMBER, 9.30-11.30AM FIND OUT MORE: WWW.OXFORDHOUSESCHOOL.NET

AD OXFORD HOUSE.indd 86

21/08/2024 11:51

EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

Stepping

STONES

How the world of play inspires learning at Berkhamsted Pre-Prep and Prep

A “We have a carefully constructed approach for a child's development”

t Berkhamsted Pre-Prep and Prep, pupils are encouraged to explore the world around them and develop holistically through play. Studies by the University of Cambridge have shown that the more children play, the more likely they are to develop into selfregulating, emotionally intelligent adults.

To give pupils the best start in life, pupils from age three engage in indoor and outdoor play. As part of the school’s drive to develop risk-taking adults who are unafraid to make mistakes, pupils play outside no matter the weather. “If it’s raining,” says Head of Stepping Stones Debbie Cooper, “pupils put on a coat and still head out.”

From nursery, symbolic role play is used to develop pupils’ understanding of the world around them. Stepping Stones recently enjoyed a visit from firemen and afterwards took turns playing as firemen themselves.

During World Book Day, pupils across the school dressed as their favourite animals and collectively imagined how their character may act and move. Through these opportunities to imitate, pupils make sense of the world.

But play doesn’t just happen in class. To develop their independence, pupils are given the freedom to play by themselves. A walled garden is a magical setting on the Pre-Prep campus that gives pupils the freedom to play in groups, explore the age-appropriate climbing equipment, and take independent risks. At the Prep, the outdoor area has been recently re-landscaped to provide more dedicated outdoor play areas for the children, and a greater sense of space on the campus.

While pupils are always supervised, they don’t often know it, encouraging them to express themselves and socialise with peers without constant intervention from teachers.

Following the Forest School Curriculum, play often happens in the woodlands surrounding the countryside campus. By taking play outdoors, pupils across all age groups have

an increased ability to explore the world around them and take risks through climbing, adventuring, and following the dedicated Gruffalo trail that leads through the woods.

Parents are involved in encouraging play, from dedicated parent talks that discuss the benefits of playing with children at home to inviting parents on site to engage in play with the children. Every Christmas, Pre-Prep parents are invited to join their children as they complete a ‘stickman walk’ through the woods, while Prep parents enjoy talks on the benefits of playing with their children, family games nights are especially recommended!

A highlight of many pupils’ time at school has been Berkhamsted Pre-Prep and Prep’s ‘International Day of Play’ in which usual lessons are switched for games and play. At the Pre-Prep, pupils engaged in outdoor play, strategic card games, puppet shows, and makebelieve. At the Prep, pupils enjoyed moulding shapes in a sandbox and a range of outdoor games from skipping to marbles, to tiddlywinks.

“For every moment that on the surface looks like play,” concludes Debbie, “we have a carefully constructed approach for the development of each individual child.”

To learn more about Berkhamsted PrePrep and Prep, join them at their Open Events on 4-5 October; berkhamsted.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

BERKO.indd 87

87

21/08/2024 11:52

AD ST JOSEPHS.indd 88

21/08/2024 11:52

EDUCATION • FOCUS

Painting a

PICTURE Dame Bradbury’s aspiring Year 6 artists see work exhibited in the National Gallery

A

rtwork from pupils at Dame Bradbury’s Junior School in Saffron Walden is to be displayed at the National Gallery, as part of the gallery’s Take One Picture competition. Year 6 pupils were tasked with creating a stop-motion animated short video inspired by Henri Rousseau’s 1891 painting “Surprised!”, which depicts a tiger lurking in the jungle undergrowth and currently hangs in the National Gallery in London.

Pupils used their creativity to develop a work of art that imagined the scene before or after the painting’s setting. Scenes ranged

from dramatic action sequences of a tiger fighting hunters in the jungle, to a playful interpretation depicting a tiger rolling through the undergrowth playing with the sun, moon and stars as if they were balls of yarn.

Amira Mitchell-Karam, Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Maths (STEAM) Lead at Dame Bradbury’s Junior School, says: “It is incredible to see the creativity and the different interpretations that our pupils have come up with from viewing just one picture. Stop-motion animation is a notoriously difficult art form to master, and we are very proud of the videos that our pupils have produced and the hard work that they put into making them. To have their work selected to be exhibited in the National Gallery is a massive achievement and the pupils are wonderful representatives of themselves and the school.”

Take One Picture is a national programme for primary schools, which encourages students to develop an artistic response to a chosen painting, aiming to inspire a lifelong love of art and learning.

Dame Bradbury’s offers academic excellence alongside a comprehensive range of enriched learning opportunities, spanning art and design, performing arts, extra-curricular trips, and sports.

Located in Saffron Walden, Dame Bradbury’s Junior School educates boys and

girls aged 1 to 11. In 2022, the school marked its 500-year anniversary, with a history dating back to the 16th century when Dame Johanne Bradbury re-established a school on the site by obtaining the necessary letters patent from Henry VIII. Since then, the school has evolved to facilitate a curriculum and vision for education designed to encourage independent, creative and reflective thinking.

Part of the Stephen Perse Foundation, an independent family of schools, the school’s mission is to educate and inspire the contributors to tomorrow’s world: pupils with a willingness to experiment, to question and to take on new challenges.

To find out more about Dame Bradbury’s Junior School visit damebradburys. stephenperse.com/damebradburys A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

DAME BRADBURYS.indd 89

89

21/08/2024 11:52

AVON_HOUSE_FP_ABS_ESSEX_SEPT2024_PRINT.indd 1

21/08/2024 15:02

EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

Place to

flourish Forest School: a beacon of progressive education and personal development

N

estled on the edge of north-east London, Forest School stands as a beacon of well-rounded and progressive education.

Surrounded by ancient forest yet within a diverse, dynamic community, this independent school offers a unique blend of safety and accessibility, being just 35 minutes from central London. With over 1,500 pupils aged 4 to 18, Forest School is one of the largest independent day schools in London, renowned for balancing academic success with exceptional personal development.

Forest School’s vibrant community is characterised by its equal proportion of boys and girls, all benefiting from

a traditional House structure that treats each pupil as an individual.

This approach, combined with the school’s size, allows for a breadth and depth of opportunity that is hard to match. The school’s distinct ethos is built on a clear set of values that place the individual child at the heart of everything it does. This is a kind, openminded school where pupils’ all-round personal development is outstanding, and academic attainment is high.

Fostering each child’s individual passion and talent has resulted in consistently outstanding results academically, as well as across music, arts, and sports. A number of former pupils have gone on to represent the country in the sporting field and become well-known names internationally on the stage and screen. Forest School

understands the rich inter-relationship between the curricular, co-curricular, and pastoral aspects of education.

Forest School boasts impressive facilities, including 50 acres of grounds surrounded by Epping Forest. The school owns 20 acres of sports grounds, known as The Park, which includes football and cricket pitches, athletics tracks, and an all-weather AstroTurf facility supporting over 77 sports teams. These facilities provide pupils with ample opportunities to engage in physical activities and develop their sporting talents.

The Good Schools Guide describes Forest School as “a flourishing, successful, and well-led school in a glorious, green setting with consistently strong results that don’t require pupils to sacrifice happiness or wellbeing on the way to achieving them. A mustsee option for parents wanting an education that’s so genuinely rounded you could make hoops from it”.

The school is inviting parents, carers, and prospective pupils to visit on Saturday 21 September, from 8.30am to 1pm. This Open Morning is an excellent opportunity for families to experience the school’s vibrant atmosphere. Visitors will see pupils engaged in various activities, from classroom learning to drama rehearsals, sports, and musical performances. Both Preparatory and Senior School teaching staff will be available for informal discussions. As the Warden, Marcus Cliff Hodges, says: “Seeing the school for yourself and meeting our bright and sparky pupils is the best way to learn more about us and our culture. Parents, carers, and prospective pupils can come and see first-hand the breadth and depth of opportunities we offer, and how we nurture each child to achieve their full potential. We look forward to welcoming you to Forest.”

With its unique location, breadth of opportunity, and commitment to individual development, Forest School is a must-see for parents and carers seeking a truly exceptional education for their children. forest.org.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ADVTL FOREST SCHOOL.indd 91

91

21/08/2024 11:52

AD QA.indd 92

21/08/2024 11:52

EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

SAMANTHA PRICE

t i m e

t o

LEARN How the boarding environment at Cranleigh helps pupils to flourish

By SAMANTHA PRICE

M

odern boarding environments offer an excellent solution to the difficulties of juggling two demanding careers. Schools like Cranleigh offer co-educational environments designed to help young people discover their talents and make the most of them.

Full, weekly or flexi boarding gives pupils time. Rather than commuting they are playing on the pitches, rehearsing in the studios, attending evening lectures from visiting speakers or simply hanging out with friends in the boarding house. Such an experience ensures that boarders leave as confident, independent, personable, well-rounded, adaptable and caring young people who are well equipped for future life.

It’s that luxury of time that really elevates boarding. It allows budding

scientists, for example, to spread their wings academically – not just to learn the theory, but actually to do science: it’s difficult to lose yourself researching in the library or to take regular measurements for the experimental phase of your biology EPQ if you’ve got one eye on the clock to ensure you don’t miss the bus home. Boarding lends itself in this way to cultivating a genuine love for their subjects that isn’t always possible in the confines of the day school classroom. The longer school day also means that teenagers don’t have to choose between being a top academic and aiming for excellence on the sporting, music or drama front. From the 6am swim squad session through to the evening music competitions, boarding schools hum with activity… and pupils thrive on that energy.

Along with beautiful campuses, superb co-curricular opportunities and greater scope for the development of independence, boarding schools offer time to stretch and

inspire young minds. Boarding school staff run regular ‘out of hours’ clinics, revision sessions, academic lectures, scholars’ societies, debates and dinners meaning learning can flourish into a meaningful experience. Parents are a big part of life at boarding schools like Cranleigh who offer all types of boarding in a modern approach that recognises the importance of family.

I am Cranleigh’s first female Head and joined the school in September, following a successful decade as Head of Benenden School. I boarded myself at Malvern Girls’ College and I have a passion for creating boarding environments that nurture teenagers and equip them for life beyond the school gates.

Cranleigh is welcoming families to their Open Days on Saturday 21 September for Sixth Form and Saturday 12 October the whole school.

Find out more at cranleigh.org A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

CRANLEIGH.indd 93

93

21/08/2024 11:52

AD Hurst.indd 94

21/08/2024 11:52

EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

World of

opportunity

How Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate offers a wealth of inspiration and excitement for students

“The Collegiate places its emphasis on growing students into resilient and confident adults”

S

et in 220 acres of beautiful countryside between Harrogate and York, Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate (QE) is an awardwinning day and boarding school (BSA Innovation, 2022) that welcomes girls and boys aged from 3 months to 19 years and boarders from Year 3. It is known nationally and globally for its consistently high-ranking academic performance with QE College placing second nationally for A-levels and 18th for allround Academic Performance in the Sunday Times Parent Power 2024. The QE Faculty school, which offers modern BTEC qualifications as well as performance sport and performing art pathways, climbed several places to rank seventh in the North for overall performance.

QE is a through school with many students beginning their QE journey in Chapter House Prep, King’s Magna Middle School or at the start of GCSE or A-level study. Across all age groups, the Collegiate places its emphasis on growing students into resilient, caring, compassionate and confident adults with an ethos of “to be the best that I can with the gifts that I have” underpinning everything.

QE takes pride in offering over 100 clubs onsite, making full use of its exceptional facilities with over 30 acres of elite grass and 3G artificial pitches, a 25m swimming pool, a

314-seat professional theatre, and a new cricket pavilion. Pupils can join their King’s Academy for Performing Arts, their Queen’s Academy for Creative Arts, their Performance Sport Pathway or their Performing Arts (ADA) programme. They can partake in academically focused clubs such as Medicine, Law, Enterprise, Politics, and Psychology, and represent the Collegiate nationally in a variety of disciplines.

QE’s excellent pastoral team run a programme of activities and support to ensure student mental and physical health is a priority. The team are Muddy Stilettos Outstanding Pastoral Care Finalists and make sure they are available 24/7 to students. Their 2023 ISI inspection says that: "Pupils feel that their opinions matter and that leaders are alert to their welfare needs, which promotes their self-esteem."

A CEA-accredited school, the Collegiate has a longstanding relationship with the Forces Community and offers discounts to CEA, nonCEA and ex-military families. They have their own Forces Club and Combined Cadet Force.

Visit qe.org to find out more or email admissions@qe.org to book a private tour A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ADVTL QA.indd 95

95

21/08/2024 11:52

AD Cavendish Education.indd 96

21/08/2024 11:59

EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

TAKE LEAD T H E

The Head of Prior’s Field on empowering young women through all-girls education

By ZOE IRELAND

ZOE IRELAND

I

am incredibly proud to be joining Prior’s Field, a school founded in 1902 on the principles of all-girls education.

Our aim to empower young women to be leaders is more important than ever in 2024 and beyond; it is proven that an all-girls education offers major benefits in bridging the skills gap and fostering academic and personal growth.

It is a well-rehearsed argument that girls and boys learn differently. They do.

At Prior’s Field, unlike many schools, high achievement is not accompanied by high anxiety and it is my intention to maintain this equilibrium, which is so beneficial for our girls.

Academically, girls in single-sex independent schools outperform their counterparts in coed schools. Recent analysis showed a clear 10% higher GCSE grades for students at all-girls’ schools, compared to girls in co-ed schools.

One area which highlights this significantly is the enhanced focus on STEM subjects. The Department for Education (Dfe) data speaks for itself. Girls are almost three times as likely to take Further Maths and more than two times more likely to take Physics and Computing compared to girls in co-ed schools.

It is my aim to develop Renaissance women – multi-faceted, multi-talented girls. At Prior’s Field we prioritise a breadth of experience as well as focus. From music to maths, from drama to DT, hockey to history, the channels into which our girls can pour their enthusiasm into are endless. Excellence, that much over-used word, can only be achieved when there are many chances to excel, and outside of the classroom, participation in sport is an area in which all-girls schools benefit significantly. With tailored sports programmes, girls are bucking the trend when it comes to traditional “boy” sports. At an

all-girls’ school, students are five times more likely to play cricket than if at co-ed and here at Prior’s Field, a quarter of all students play, with a 210% YOY increase over two years.

Finally, and in a world where men still hold over 90% of C-Suite executive roles and a FTSE 100 CEO is more likely to be called Steve or Stephen, than to be female, singlesex education promotes the development of essential leadership skills. At Prior’s Field, we provide tailored enrichment to develop leadership, collaboration, and decision making.

In our school community there is more space, more room, more oxygen for gaining emotional as well as academic intelligence and we place emphasis on interpersonal, social skills for our students' next steps. That starts with self-knowledge, self-belief, self-awareness and self-confidence – the sort of emotional ballast that can best be learnt in a school like Prior’s Field. We see our girls become bold and brilliant women, determined to make their mark on the modern world. priorsfieldschool.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

PRIORS FIELD.indd 97

97

21/08/2024 11:59

Nurture

Curiosity

Creativity

Excellence

OPEN DAY Saturday 14th September 2024 10 am - 12 noon Register via - www.wgprep.co.uk

“EXCELLENT IN ALL AREAS” ISI JUNE 2023

Tel: 0208 504 5045 Email: admissions@wgprep.co.uk www.wgprep.co.uk

Independent Day School for pupils aged 3-11 Years

AD OLD BUCKENHAM - WOODFORD GREEN.indd 98

21/08/2024 11:59

EDUCATION • FOCUS

Green giants In their second recognition this month, Dame Bradbury’s eco-warriors have received national accreditation

D

ame Bradbury’s Junior School in Saffron Walden has received the Eco-Schools Green Flag certification with Distinction in recognition of their environmental consciousness and commitment to sustainable practices.

The national accreditation is awarded to schools that go above and beyond the call of duty to make their environment as sustainable as possible. The pupil-led programme encourages environmental learning and empowers the whole learning community to prioritise sustainability within their community and beyond.

Pupils from Reception to Year 6 formed an Eco Committee, identifying three key focus areas for improvement within their school: reducing waste, encouraging eco-friendly travel, and enhancing the sustainability of the school grounds.

The Mayor of Saffron Walden recently visited the Junior School and was impressed to learn of the pupils’ eagerness and initiative for the cause. Over the last year, the committee has launched numerous campaigns, including ‘Cut your Carbon Month’ and ‘Walk to School Week’, which saw over 100 school children participate.

Its mission of looking after the planet has popularised a gardening club, resulting in the increased use of the greenhouse and flourishing school gardens.

The eco committee also partnered with the local council to monitor air quality in Saffron Walden. This involved performing experiments in and around their local area to check measurements and identify potential improvements.

Catriona Debnam-Sharp, the teacher leading the Eco Committee at Dame Bradbury’s, says: “We are extremely proud to be acknowledged for our environmental efforts. We have been impressed by the eagerness displayed by our pupils to make real change for the benefit of our planet.

Their mature and inspirational attitude aligns with the school’s sustainability ethos, and our shared goal to make the world a better and brighter place. It has been amazing to see the school community come together, and I hope that the pupils’ initiative will inspire others.”

Dame Bradbury’s inherits its sustainability ethos from the family of independent schools, Stephen Perse Foundation, to which it belongs and which has a vision to conserve the environment and live sustainably, championing environmental responsibility for all. The group’s sustainability strategy aims to help all its schools achieve net zero by 2030.

If you are interested in finding out more about Dame Bradbury’s visit damebradburys. stephenperse.com/damebradburys A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ADVTL DAME BRADBURYS PART2.indd 99

99

21/08/2024 11:59

Nurturing individuality, celebrating excellence Places available from Early Years to Year 6 Find out more about Dame Bradbury’s and book a tour db-admissions@stephenperse.com 01223 454700 Ext 4006 damebradburys.com

Saturday 14 September 10.00am-1.00pm Book online: www.eltham-college.org.uk/admissions

AD DAME BRADBURY - ELTHAM.indd 100

Open Day 2024 21/08/2024 11:59

EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

M I N D

O V E R

MATTER

Exploring the unique Feltonfleet Wellbeing Curriculum, where mental fitness comes first

W

hen selecting a school, parents increasingly value not just academic prowess, but also the school’s dedication to students' emotional and mental wellbeing. Traditionally, pastoral care focused on mental health, addressing issues as they arose. However, the 21st-century challenges faced by pupils necessitate a broader approach. The concept of mental fitness has emerged, emphasising a proactive and dynamic pursuit of mental strength, resilience, and adaptability.

Beyond academic pressures, today’s pupils grapple with a rapidly changing world, unprecedented societal expectations, and the omnipresence of digital connectivity.

Traditional models of pastoral care, centred on reactive responses to mental health concerns, are revealing their limitations in addressing the multifaceted challenges pupils encounter.

A reactive approach may also inadvertently stigmatise mental health concerns, perpetuating the notion that seeking support is

By HELEN MARLAND

reserved for times of crisis. Mental fitness, on the other hand, is about proactive wellbeing.

In response to this changing landscape, Feltonfleet’s Wellbeing Curriculum has evolved to transcend crisis intervention, and instead seek to actively instil practices fostering mental fitness. This includes resilience-building, emotional intelligence development, cognitive flexibility, and cultivating a growth mindset.

By dedicating curriculum time to mental health, mindfulness, mental fitness and elucidating the workings of the brain, we can highlight the significance of individual wellbeing. Mindfulness is a core component, equipping pupils to respond skilfully to the present moment, with open-minded curiosity and acceptance. Pupil-led 'mindful moments' have become a daily ritual, aiding concentration and settling thoughts.

Wellbeing Wednesdays and a comprehensive co-curricular enrichment program at Feltonfleet further support emotional management and personal growth, as well as provide platforms for self-exploration and identify formation. Mixed-age activities foster

a sense of community and leadership among older students while easing younger pupils' transition beyond the classroom. Effective social tracking and comprehensive assessments by a dedicated pastoral team is at the heart of our philosophy, enabling a deep understanding of each pupil’s learning and emotional needs, and thus tailored support for each individual.

Moving forwards, the imperative for schools is clear – to prepare pupils not only for academic success, but also to be mentally agile and emotionally robust. As educators, our responsibility extends beyond reacting to mental health concerns; we must actively cultivate the mental strengths that empower pupils to face the challenges of tomorrow. The wellbeing of pupils is not a mere complement, but an integral determinant of their overall growth and ability to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Helen Marland is Deputy Head (Pastoral) at Feltonfleet. Find out more by emailing admissions@feltonfleet.co.uk, calling 01932 862264 or visiting feltonfleet.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FF.indd 101

101

21/08/2024 11:59

The Daiglen School PERSEVERE & EXCEL

A modern education in a traditional environment for boys and girls aged 3-11

100% 11+ PASS RATE 2023 See our website for more details: www.daiglenschool.co.uk

Forest is a large, vibrant, co-educational independent school that offers outstanding academic progress and personal development, award-winning pastoral care, and an engaging and comprehensive co-curriculum. Forest benefits from a tremendous location, surrounded by ancient forest but situated within a wonderfully diverse part of North-East London with 30 acres of grounds.

Forest - Where People Grow

AD STAGECOACH - DAIGLEN - FOREST.indd 102

Open Morning

Saturday, 21 September 2024 8.30am - 1.00pm 0208 520 1744 | E17 3PY admissions@forest.org.uk | www.forest.org.uk

21/08/2024 11:59

EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

B R O A D

STROKES

A

t Vinehall, they pride themselves on offering an extensive curriculum and co-curricular opportunities that significantly contribute to the development of pupils.

This dynamic and multifaceted approach ensures that pupils excel academically while developing critical life skills.

The curriculum is designed to be broad and inclusive, covering traditional academic subjects such as maths, science, and literature, alongside the arts, physical education, and modern languages. This diversity ensures that every pupil can find areas where they excel and are passionate.

By engaging with various subjects, pupils develop robust cognitive skills, including critical thinking and creativity, and problemsolving. Children learn to work productively and become resilient, resourceful, and reflective learners, unafraid to try something new or make mistakes. The curriculum is delivered by inspirational teachers.

Exploring the breadth of curriculum and cocurricular opportunities at Vinehall School At Vinehall, the Forest School is an integral part of their curriculum. It is an experience that fosters a lifelong love of learning and nature. From Nursery to Year 8, children explore and grow in the Forest School, gaining invaluable experiences that shape their character and knowledge.

The school’s co-curricular offerings cover a wide range of interests, from debating and programming to horse riding, mountain biking, and LAMDA. These activities not only hone skills, but also promote a balanced approach to education, teaching time management, teamwork, leadership, and building well-rounded children equipped to face future challenges.

They understand that every child is unique, with diverse interests and talents.

They are proud to offer an extensive array of external speakers, from poets to explorers. This, combined with educational visits, cultural immersion days, and enrichment activities, ensures the cocurricular opportunities are vast.

Through a commitment to community

service and global awareness initiatives, pupils become responsible and empathetic citizens. These experiences are invaluable in shaping well-rounded individuals who are not only academically capable, but also socially conscious and ethically grounded.

The benefits of this comprehensive educational approach are many.

Academically, pupils are more engaged and motivated when they can pursue their interests and discover new passions. This engagement often translates to better academic performance. Additionally, the skills developed through co-curricular activities are highly valued by future senior schools, universities, and employers.

The breadth of opportunities available at Vinehall plays an integral role in the all-around development of their pupils. By providing a rich and varied educational experience, their pupils leave them with lifelong friends, a sense of community, and a wealth of experiences and skills. vinehallschool.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

VINEHALL_SEPTEMBER 2024_ABSOLUTELY ESSEX.indd 103

103

21/08/2024 16:02

Boyles Court BRENTWOOD, ESSEX

BBQ & Open House Come and join us on 21st September, at 12-3.30pm Address - Boyles Court Development, Dark Lane, Great Warley, CM14 5LL Contact Details - sales@boylescourt.co.uk, 07771 187 891

Boyles Court is a luxury gated development of 30 apartments and houses set in 16 acres of private parkland, conveniently located for access to Brentwood town centre and within commuting distance of central London.

Sizes range from approx. 844 - 1,427 sq ft for apartments and 1,533 – 2,403 sq ft for houses.

Apartments £575,000 - £900,000 Houses £800,000 - £1,450,000

Immersed in gently rolling parkland and pristinely manicured gardens, Boyles Court offers contemporary living finished at the highest standard.

Whilst the countryside is at your doorstep, the recent opening of the Elizabeth line has made the capital closer than ever. It’s now just a 25 minute train ride to London Liverpool Street Station, and a 40 minute journey to Tottenham Court Road. So, whether you’re commuting to work, or planning a shopping trip, the bright lights of London are at your fingertips.

AD JOHN D WOOD.indd 104 5040-JDW-Absolutely-Essex.indd 2

21/08/2024 16:13 11:59 15/08/2024

PROPERTY

CHURCH LANE RM4 ASKING PRICE

£5,000,000

urden and Hunt welcome to the market this charming Grade II Listed, eight bedroom home offering ample rooms and space for family living. Located on expansive grounds the property further benefits from an additional two bedroom barn conversion annexe, swimming pool, private woodlands, duck pond, treehouse and workshop.

D

DURDEN & HUNT

020 3026 0160 durdenandhunt.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ADVTL PROPERTY OPENER.indd 105

105

21/08/2024 11:59

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Quis ipsum suspendisse ultrices gravida. Risus commodo viverra maecenas accumsan lacus vel facilisis.

Let us value your property for free.

On average, we sell 41 days quicker than other agents.* *data from home.co.uk

Your local sales & lettings experts Our Branches

info@durdenandhunt.co.uk www.durdenandhunt.co.uk

AD Durdan + Hunt.indd 106

21/08/2024 12:00

PROPERTY • PARTNERSHIP

“It provides the perfect balance of countryside and cosmopolitan living”

GRAND DESIGNS Brentwood’s modern renaissance of a historic Georgian mansion

O

riginally built in 1776, Boyles Court is an impressive red brick mansion designed by renowned architect Thomas Leverton and home to the noble Lescher family until the 1920s, when it became a school. Now reimagined for the modern age, the development has retained many of the original Grade II-listed Georgian features and ornate Italianate architecture.

Set in 16 acres of spectacular private parkland, with towering oaks, ornamental ponds and landscaped gardens, residents can enjoy the tranquillity of nature in every season.

It’s just a short commute to London, so provides the perfect balance of

countryside and cosmopolitan living.

Whilst the countryside is at your doorstep, the recent opening of the Elizabeth line has made the capital closer than ever – just a 25 minute train ride to London Liverpool Street Station, and a 40 minute journey to Tottenham Court Road – London is also at your fingertips.

For golf enthusiasts, the historic and prestigious Thorndon Park golf club is close by and is one of the country’s most picturesque courses. While for nature lovers, Weald Country Park boasts over 520 acres of woodland, lakes and wildflower meadows, where you can spot wild deer and admire spectacular views.

Boyles Court comprises an exquisite collection of houses designed for convenience and luxury, blending tradition with modernity. Each house

showcases handmade sash windows and luxury German kitchens equipped with top-tier integrated appliances and quartz countertops. The openplan layout features generous islands, ideal for preparation and occasional seating. Upstairs, sleek bath and shower rooms boast British-made imperial sanitary ware and Hansgrohe taps.

Alternatively, there is the option of buying perfectly crafted apartments within a renovated Georgian building, which offers a seamless blend of contemporary living and traditional charm. These spacious apartments include modern amenities like structured cabling, SkyQ wiring, underfloor heating, and electric vehicle charging points, while maintaining classic features such as handmade sash windows and bespoke joinery.

J O H N D WO O D Boyles Court Development, Dark Lane, Great Warley, CM14 5LL 07771 187 891 sales@boylescourt.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ADVTL JOHN D WOOD_SEPTEMBER 2024_ABSOLUTELY ESSEX.indd 107

107

21/08/2024 16:04

For every moment in life AT HILL WE BUILD MORE THAN JUST HOMES, WE CREATE EXCEPTIONAL PLACES TO LIVE. WHERE THE ORDINARY BECOMES EXTRAORDINARY. Our range of homes combine glorious countryside settings and village living with easy access to schools, amenities and more.

Expertly crafted and beautifully finished, our homes are designed for all of life’s special moments.

Now is the ideal time to buy as a selection of our homes are available with Assisted Move*, a scheme where we can help get you moving,without the hassle of selling your current home first.

With the help of this scheme, we could help you fulfil your dream of buying a new home sooner than you thought.

VIEW OUR HOMES

SCAN THE QR CODE ABOVE TO DISCOVER OUR FULL RANGE OF HOMES AVAILABLE

HOUSEBUILDER OF THE YEAR

AD HILL RESIDENTIAL.indd 108

21/08/2024 12:00

e 3, 4 & 5 BEDROOM HOUSES PRICES FROM £499,950 This is a rare opportunity to own a brand new home in Finchingfield, with a selection of homes in this stunning collection offering views overlooking green open space.

Enhancing their appeal, most homes are designed with a charming double-fronted layout, with all homes including either a single or double garage. Enjoy the perfect blend of countryside living in this highly desirable location, and convenience with the village a short distance away.

2, 3 & 4 BEDROOM HOUSES & 2 BEDROOM BUNGALOWS. PRICES FROM £474,950 Located in the thriving village community of Newport, there are a variety of homes to choose from with most homes designed with a doublefronted layout, and all homes benefiting from integrated appliances and all flooring included.

Within walking distance to Newport station, living here means you will enjoy easy connections to London, the historic city of Cambridge and popular neighbouring areas such as Saffron Walden and Bishop’s Stortford, along with a lifestyle close to the outdoors with countryside on your doorstep. Plus, these energy-efficient homes will allow residents to live in comfort with no energy bills for at least five years guaranteed!**

VISIT HILL.CO.UK TO FIND OUT MORE

*Please speak with our sales teams relevant to your development of interest for more information. Terms and conditions apply. **Through Octopus’ industry-leading technology and our expertise as housebuilders, we are pioneering a future where sustainable living becomes the norm, with cutting-edge low-carbon technology.

Zero Bills™ is the world-first smart tariff by Octopus Energy, that helps residents live in comfort with no energy bills for at least five years, guaranteed. Limits, exclusions, and T&Cs apply. Prices correct at time of print.

AD HILL RESIDENTIAL.indd 109

21/08/2024 12:00

110

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

MONEY CAN BUY.indd 110

21/08/2024 12:00

PROPERTY • FOCUS

MONEY CAN BUY… A stunning Georgian hall believed to date to 1811 WHERE Rawreth Lane, Wickford, SS11 WHAT A handsome and beautifully presented unlisted Georgian family home with cottage and 1.8 acres.

INSIDE Internally, the fine central entrance hall provides access to the majority of the principal rooms, all beautifully proportioned, with period features and high ceilings; an elegant drawing room and dining room with interconnected doors and open fireplaces; family room with masses of natural light; and a study. Most notable to the ground floor is the impressive kitchen/breakfast room which the current vendors have opened out into a family room meaning it extends the full length of the property making this the hub of the house.

The cellar is not like any cellar, but a hidden playroom or hobby space, which the clients utilise as a games room with bar, wine cellar and gym. Whilst to the first and second floors are seven good sized bedrooms, the principal has a dressing room and en-suite, two further bedrooms with en-suites and a family bathroom; all enjoying views over the surrounding gardens and countryside beyond.

Pond Cottage has been recently refurbished by the vendors and is currently used as additional guest accommodation.

OUTSIDE Rawreth Hall is approached by a long gravel driveway, which winds past the cottage and up to the main house. To the front are areas of lawn bordered by high hedging and mature trees giving the property plenty of seclusion and privacy. There is also a beautiful pond along with garaging to the front.

Surrounding the property are areas of patios and terracing allowing overspill entertaining from the main house, whilst the majority of the rear garden is lawned with more mature trees and flower beds. The back of the house and rear terrace is all south-facing making it the perfect spot for al fresco dining all year round with the outdoor sail over the hot tub giving protection from sun, rain and wind.

PRICE £2,100,000 SELLING AGENT Strutt & Parker Chelmsford 01245 960393 struttandparker.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

MONEY CAN BUY.indd 111

111

21/08/2024 12:00

Queens Road, Buckhurst Hill

Guide Price £1,175,000 Farr O’Neil are delighted to offer to the market this refurbished and remodelled Victorian property situated on Queens Road which retains much of its original charm and character. There are period features throughout with four bedrooms, two reception rooms and a stylish open plan kitchen/living space with bi-fold doors opening to a delightful south facing garden.

Bush Road, Buckhurst Hill

Guide Price £575,000

A delightful two bedroom semi detached bungalow situated in a sought after turning. Features include an extended spacious reception room with patio doors onto the garden, kitchen/diner and bedrooms with fitted wardrobes.Superb location for green spaces and the Central Line stations.

AD FARR ONEIL.indd 112 FARRONEIL_FP_ABS_ESSEX_SEPT2024.indd 1

21/08/2024 15/08/2024 12:00 12:44

PROPERTY • INSIGHT

THE BANK OF ENGLAND DROPPED INTEREST RATES IN AUGUST

Fact finder

James Hunt, co-founder of Durden & Hunt, analyses the current property market and why there is plenty to be encouraged about

H

igh interest rates and high property prices have no doubt presented challenging market conditions in the not so distant past, and whilst it is clear there are still adjustments to come, overall it’s important to remember the housing market has been steady throughout.

Now with the recent cut to the base rate, the first in four years, and a new government now in place, there seems to be an underlying level of confidence and optimism that the market will continue to remain stable for the foreseeable future. In fact we can see where one area may have slowed, such as house price growth, another has flourished, such as a boost in market activity.

Now a slowing in house property prices escalation doesn’t mean a decline. In fact having remained relatively flat over the last 12 months, the first half of 2024 saw house prices rise across the whole of the UK, and it is anticipated that they are on track to have increased by 2% by the end of the year (Zoopla). Further, between June and July, Halifax suggests the average home grew in value by 0.8%.

It’s also encouraging to see that more homes are coming to the market, with more properties for sales than in the last six years. More supply and choice helps to boost activity, and sales, as many sellers are also buyers. Additionally, another positive sign for both the market and house prices is that in comparison to last year buyers are paying a great proportion of the asking price (96.8%, Zoopla).

Whether you’re looking to sell, buy or both, speak to us about a free, no obligation valuation of your home or indeed our recommended mortgage brokers to better understand your position.

On the market A stunning eco-friendly home featuring a Japanese-influenced zen garden Bushey Avenue, South Woodford, E18 Durden and Hunt welcome to the market this exceptional property offering many state of the art and thoughtfully designed features across approximately 3,900 sq ft.

It boasts ample rooms for modern living with five bedrooms, three bathrooms, reception room, a kitchen diner, a utility room, downstairs WC and an office.

Externally the eco-friendly property has a driveway, garage and a Japanese influenced zen garden courtyard.

Offers Over £2,800,000 durdenandhunt.co.uk

JAMES HUNT

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ADVTL DURDEN + HUNT.indd 113

113

21/08/2024 12:00

LAST WORD • LOCATION

why everyone is talking about…

Wyvernwood

The independent story-led family attraction in Essex has seen a record start to 2024

W

yvernwood, an immersive, story-led outdoor adventure park located near Colchester, has announced a record start to the 2024 season, with visitor numbers jumping 60% since the end of March, compared to the same period last year.

The park first opened its doors in July 2022 after being awarded an EU grant and raising its own funds with the help of their independent finance and mortgage advisory firm, Ashbridge Partners.

Wyvernwood, the brainchild of husbandand-wife team – Will, a technology leader in a global engineering company, and Susie Marsden, who formerly worked as Group Company Secretary for a FTSE100 company in St James’s London – occupies 27 acres of Alresford Hall Farm, a 200-acre estate with ancient woodland dating back to the 1700s.

On the park’s record start, Susie says: “We couldn’t have imagined a better start to our 2024 season, particularly as this is only Wyvernwood’s second full season of trading. Our visitor numbers peaked at 60,000 last year; however, we’re already on course to surpass this record by 25%, despite some unpleasant wet and windy weather during May and June. Not only are we seeing numbers up as a whole, but we’re also seeing a significant increase in birthday party bookings and school outings, as well as a large percentage of return visits.

“Our mission has always been to create a fun-filled and magical experience with elements of surprise and delight for all our guests; encouraging children to enjoy the great outdoors, escape from their screens and connect with nature,” she adds. “We

114

want to do this in the best way we can while having a positive impact on our guests’ wellbeing. We believe that it is important to have fun and at the same time engage with nature in a beautiful setting which is good for mental health and reducing stress, for adults and children alike.”

The £4.5m attraction features a series of story–based themed play zones with aesthetically pleasing wooden play structures and unique wood carvings, where visitors can meet the Wyvernwood characters such as fairies, goblins and a heroic captain, engage in quests, puzzles and riddles, explore a maize maze, sand play and toddler areas, jumping pillows and pedal karts as well as experience the Dragon Trail, which crosses a wild flower meadow leading to the cool and inviting Wellbeing Woods. The park now employs four full-time members of staff and up to 50 seasonal staff, from actors to park

rangers and experience co-ordinators, and a full support team during the open season.

The idea of the attraction first came to mind in 2016 when the Marsden family wanted to explore new ways to diversify their farmland. Previous to the park’s opening two years ago, part of the site on which it now sits was formerly a wholesale plant nursery. The Marsden’s planted over 3,500 native trees and installed multiple bird, owl and bat boxes and have a strong eco thread running through the Wyvernwood experience. Wyvernwood employs locallybased staff, uses locally-sourced produce and avoids the use of plastic wherever possible.

Susie adds: “Wyvernwood is truly a labour of love. Our relentless focus is on creating the best possible guest experience and achieving operational excellence.” wyvernwood.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

EVERYONE TALKING.indd 114

21/08/2024 12:00

Holidays will never be more special than when they’re in your own home from home Lodges for sale on the Broads National Park for £99,995 Fabulous facilities and access to the stunning Broads National Park make Waveney River Centre the place to really enjoy some you time.

Why not arrange a visit to see for yourself or book a holiday to try before you buy.

Tingdene Waveney River Centre, Burgh St Peter, Norfolk NR34 0DE. 01502 447912 | sales.waveney@tingdene.net | tingdenelifestyleparks.co.uk

IBC WE TINGDENE_21-Aug-2024_ABSOLUTELY ESSEX.indd 119

21/08/2024 13:48

OBC WE EMSON HAIG.indd 120

21/08/2024 12:00