Absolutely Buckinghamshire Magazine September 2025

Buckinghamshire

PLUS

GREAT YARN

The story of the Roald Dahl Museum

• SUUM KITCHEN Vietnamese originality in Bucks

• BEST OF FRIENDS

Hearing Dogs for Deaf People expand into the county

News and views from the county's best schools

Rising STAR

Hans J. Wegner

DESIGN ICONS FOR DAILY LIFE

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SENIOR

SUZETTE SCOBLE

MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER

CARMEN GRAHAM

MAGAZINE DESIGNER

MARIANA SUZUKI

DESIGNER

PAMELLA MORENO

PRODUCTION MANAGER

DANICA BRODIE

MEDIA CONSULTANTS

LOUISE PEARSON

STELLA ADAMS

FINANCIAL DIRECTOR

JERRIE KOLECI

CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER

ALEXANDRA HVID

DIRECTORS

CRAIG DAVIES

JAMES FUSCHILLO

ABIGAIL GARDNER

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER

MANAGING DIRECTOR

SHERIF SHALTOUT

LETTER Editor’s

ABSOLUTELY’S September issue highlights

Ilook back on my schooldays with a lot of regret. Not because I wasted those golden years – far from it I worked really hard – but I just wish I had a little more input into what I was doing and received more encouragement in subject matters that I clearly had an interest in. Take biology. From about 14 years of age, I became obsessed with my fitness, but the way I was taught biology just didn't stick, it was textbook after textbook, classic rote learning. It meant as soon as my GCSEs were done, I dropped the sciences and moved on to what I loved (writing), and what I did well in at GCSE (Spanish and history). The former obviously worked out OK, but the latter two were disastrous and essentially meant two thirds of my Sixth Form saw me stuck in lessons I didn't want to be in.

It's why I am incredibly envious of the opportunities children today can take advantage of. From stunning facilities – my music room was a hut that was absolutely freezing in the winter – to inspiring teachers, and plenty to enjoy outside classroom walls, I am certain my passions would have been tapped into a little more. We dive into some of these fabulous schools across the county in our special this month, looking at everything from swimming to new heads this term. There's a lot to learn!

4

Agenda

The best events happening in September (p18)

MARK KEBBLE EDITOR

The Shoot Penelope Chilvers unveils her Watercolours collection (p58)

Hearing Dogs for Deaf People

The charity is expanding and needs your help (p122)

Nicola Chester Meeting the Inkpen author and nature campaigner (p26)

Emma Kohlmann

On her new ceramics collection for Hay (p81)

Wish LIST

FRILL SEEKER

St Clair's unique prints are inspired by vintage fl orals and the English countryside. They are painted in watercolour, then printed onto the so est organic Indian cotton. Each dress is fi nished by hand with traditional embroidery techniques such as hand-smocking. stclairlondon.com

MAMMA MIA

Ciao Mamma!, Mother's newest collaboration with La DoubleJ, combines California cool with Milanese maximalism. The Lela midi dress is designed with a crewneck, boxy short sleeves, a gathered waist, narrow fit and a calf-length hem. motherdenim.com

LONG LIFE

Shida Preserved Flowers' Wildfl ower collection combines eucalyptus foliage and pretty fl orals in a fresh take on fl oral design. A contemporary and naturally wild aesthetic brings the outdoors in, upli s and delights. Available in fi ve versatile sizes. shida.fl orist

DOG DAYS

It's defi nitely a Snoopy summer as we celebrate 75 years of everyone's favourite beagle. Grind has launched these lovely enamel mugs alongside a Snoopy cafetiere, a coffee tin and even a cap and t-shirt. grind.co.uk

ADD SOME SPARKLE

This is a stunning diamond pendant design from Berry’s featuring a Malayan Garnet centre stone. It features nine marquise cut diamonds and two round brilliant cut diamonds in claw settings. berrysjewellers.co.uk

SUMMER FRUIT

Diptyque's summer pop-up at St. Pancras International celebrates the launch of its limited-edition summer collection. Inspired by the charm of a Mediterranean orchard, the Summer Fruit Garden is a sun-drenched haven where fragrance, body care, and scented objects come together to elevate the art of summer living. diptyqueparis.com

FANCY FEET

The Flora Broderie espadrille is a classic style, pretty and comfortable for everyday elegance. It comes in four colourways. penelopechilvers.com

CROSS CHECK

TBCo is a brand on a mission to shape the future of responsible retail. Designed to make an impact, they cra high-quality, design-led products that connect people with items that stand the test of time. And they make great cushions too. tbco.com

SECOND SKIN

Still not sorted for summer swimwear? Make an appointment for a fitting at Amelie's Follies, where you'll fi nd the perfect piece. ameliesfollies.co.uk

HOT SPOTS

Kit Kemp and her team of designers believe the right lighting not only transforms a room, but can also be a striking and interesting focal point, as this Mixed Tones lampshade shows. kitkemp.com

CULTURE

The Agenda

Festival of Arts & Crafts

13-27 September

THE BASE GREENHAM Go and celebrate all things arts and crafts with The Base at their Festival of Arts & Crafts, featuring vibrant craft fairs, creative taster workshops and a stunning exhibition of local residents’ art work. The first weekend of the festival will feature a lively market surrounding The Base building, along with live music. thebasegreenham.co.uk

9-13 SEPTEMBER, MK THEATRE

Nominated for a prestigious Olivier Award this year in the Best New Entertainment or Comedy Play category, Stage/Fright features comedic, spooky and dramatic moments as fans of the TV show have come to expect. Each performance will see a di erent celebrity ‘hostage’ perform with Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith.

atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes

6 September

CORN EXCHANGE NEWBURY BAFTA-winning writer and comedian Adam Kay returns to present his brand-new show Particularly Nasty Case: A Murderously Funny Evening with Adam Kay to mark the launch of his gripping debut crime novel. Expect a night of trademark hilarity and horror, as Kay o ers a peek behind both the hospital curtain and the crime fiction page. cornexchangenew.com

MUSIC

James Bay

20 September

NEWBURY RACECOURSE

James Bay is the final headliner of Newbury Racecourse’s Party in the Paddock series for 2025. Celebrating the 10th anniversary of his multi-million selling debut album, Chaos and The Calm, James will headline live after racing at the Dubai Duty Free International Weekend. Currently on a huge UK tour, James is one of the UK’s biggest success stories of recent years. newburyracecourse.co.uk

Corn Exchange’s Old Library Campaign cranks up a gear this month BOOK

EVENT TIM PEAKE

30 September

THE HEXAGON

British astronaut Tim Peake will blast off across the country this autumn bringing the awe and wonder of space travel past, present and future to audiences. His tour, Astronauts: The Quest To Explore Space, brings to life the adventures of astronauts in a celebration of human spaceflight and gives a fascinating insight into what lies ahead. whatsonreading.com

DEAD RINGERS

o celebrate its 25th anniversary, BBC Radio

4’s legendary, multiaward-winning topical satire show Dead Ringers is hitting the road with a full UK tour for the first time. Featuring much-loved long-standing cast members

Jon Culshaw, Jan Ravens, Lewis McLeod and Duncan Wisbey, the live show promises a hilarious journey through a quarter century of classic sketches and uncanny impressions. trafalgartickets.com

This autumn, the Corn Exchange Newbury is inviting the community to come together and enjoy a lively season of events in support of its Old Library Campaign – to fund the refurbishment and reopening of one of Newbury’s most cherished historic buildings as a vibrant new arts hub.

On Tuesday 16th September, audiences can enjoy a rare opportunity to hear from one of Britain’s most beloved broadcasters. An Audience with Clare Balding will see the awardwinning presenter visit Newbury to discuss her debut novel Pastures New, while reflecting on her career in broadcasting and her personal connection to the area. Hungerford Bookshop will be attending the event to sell copies of Pastures New. Supporters can also take part in a special fundraising raffle for the chance to win two central stalls tickets to see top comedian Josh Widdicombe live at the Corn Exchange with his show Not My Cup of Tea on Thursday 11th September. Raffle tickets are £5, and all proceeds will go directly to the Old Library Campaign. Every ticket purchased and every donation made helps bring the vision of a reimagined Old Library closer to reality – a creative space where people of all ages can gather, learn and be inspired.

For full details, ticket information, or to donate to the Old Library Campaign, visit cornexchangenew.com/oldlibrary

CLARE BALDING

PHOTO: STEVE ULLATHORNE

PHOTOGRAPHER: DAVID REISS

GLAM: MARIA COMPARETTO

STYLING: JENNIFER MICHALSKI-BRAY

WIndia Shaw-Smith on playing an iconic Jane Austen character, the world of Spartacus and a love for the past

hat did the Romans do for us? A classic Life of Brian skit, but they are certainly playing a rather big role in the career of India Shaw-Smith right now. At the time of this interview, the Oxfordshire-born actress is preparing to play the lead in Emma at the iconic Theatre Royal Bath. “I absolutely love Bath,” she says of the historic Roman city. “It’s a beautiful city and the chance to perform at that theatre feels incredibly special.”

As is taking the lead role of Emma, especially given it’s the 250th anniversary since Jane Austen’s birth. “It’s such an exciting production to be involved in,” India smiles. “I grew up obsessed with Austen, so playing Emma really is the dream, because she’s so loveably unlikeable. Austen herself admitted Emma was a 'heroine whom no one but

myself will much like'. Her privilege gives her this false sense of control, and what she thinks is best for others often isn’t at all. She’s witty, charming and wonderfully meddlesome, but also a bit of a tyrant! She gets it wrong, a lot, but that’s what makes her so endearing. We watch her stumble, learn and grow, and I think that’s why audiences keep coming back to her.”

Is theatre key for India at this stage of her career? “Very much so. I started locally at Chipping Norton Theatre in Oxfordshire, working there professionally when I was eight, before going on to train at LAMDA. For me, the best theatre is all about relationships, shifts in power, and the way characters a ect one another, and ultimately how the audience is a ected. Do we move them? Do we change their minds? Can we hold their attention? When it ends, that exact moment is gone forever, never quite the same again, it’s what makes it magic to me!”

From Bath to another Roman connection, we will soon also see India starring in the eagerly awaited return of beloved global franchise and upcoming Starz series, Spartacus: House of Ashur. Over four seasons from 2010-2013, the original show o ered up political intrigue and a dramatic retelling of the life of the gladiator Spartacus. The new series explores a ‘what if?’ storyline spinning o from the original series with Nick Tarabay reprising his iconic role of Ashur. India plays Viridia, a young Roman noblewoman, with a pivotal story arc throughout the series.

“I love the Roman period,” she says. “When I saw the character breakdown for Viridia, I had this feeling that I knew this role was meant for me. She’s a pure, ethereal soul immersed in this world driven by brutality, high stakes, death and deception. She is the daughter of Senator Gabinius and his wife Cossutia, a powerful scheming figure. Gabinius, played by the wonderful Andrew McFarlane, and Cossutia by Claudia Black, are both phenomenal. I learnt so much from observing and working with them.”

Absolutely imagines the sets are a world away from the theatre rehearsal room. “We shot on three giant sound stages with the production o ce, the prosthetics, the fantastic hair and make up department,

the e ects, the costumes, everything tightly packed together. I was immersed in this epic Roman world. The most incredible days were when we filmed in the arena. You had the Romans and nobles up in the viewing gallery, and then the gladiators and the amazing stunt department, all working in the arena itself. On the full days we would have 300 supporting artists too, giving it absolutely everything, the energy and scale the first time we had a big scene like that absolutely blew me away.”

As well as House of Ashur to come, this winter we will also get to see India’s acclaimed performance in the film The Pines Still Whisper. “Pines was a very di erent experience,” she says. “We shot on the east coast of Canada in the summer of 2021, just

INDIA, FRONT LEFT, IN SPARTACUS HOUSE OF ASHUR

INDIA IS A FAN OF HIGHCLERE CASTLE

Heartfelt Care

Every Step of the Way

as Ontario was opening up again after Covid Fittingly, the film imagines an unspecified collapse of society (!), with no clear sense of time, and focuses on Penny, a young girl living in extreme isolation with her mother.

“I’d first worked with our brilliant director Jamie Knox on a short in 2019. He later co-wrote Pines with me in mind for Penny. I also came on board as a story editor and exec producer, which made me feel super connected to the project. For many of the cast and crew it was our first feature, which gave the shoot its own special energy. Pines really explores how easily people can be manipulated when isolated, angry or afraid, and how often the road to hell is paved with good intentions. I think we’re often drawn to those kinds of stories, even Emma touches on that in her own way. If you enjoy slowburning psychological thrillers with a touch of cults thrown in, Pines is definitely for you!”

With so much going on, the impending winter season will o er India a little break to enjoy some attractions local to us. “Blenheim Palace without a doubt,” she says straight away about her favourite landmark. “I grew up not too far from there, my mum in fact worked there as a tour guide for a little while. We have a Shaw-Smith family tradition on Christmas Day that we like to take a turn around the grounds and pretend it’s our ga ! I also love Windsor and Highclere Castle – I am a Downton Abbey nut. There is a theme here with stately homes! No surprise I love period dramas…”

Spartacus: House of Ashur premieres on Starz this winter, and The Pines Still Whisper is due for release on 12th September on Amazon and other platforms. Emma will be touring the UK including a run from 20th-

INDIA LOVES WINDSOR

PHOTOGRAPHER: DAVID REISS

GLAM: MARIA COMPARETTO STYLING: JENNIFER MICHALSKI-BRAY

InkpenauthorNicola Chester isapassionatesupporter ofallthingsnatureandfarming, ashernewbookhighlights

Nicola Chester has had a rich, multifaceted career, spanning nature writing, activism, education, and community engagement. The Inkpen local is also an acclaimed author, with her 2021 book On Gallows Down: Place, Protest and Belonging receiving widespread praise. Set around Gallows Down, near her home on the North Wessex Downs, the book weaves family stories, landscape history, and her own activism, from Greenham Common protests to Newbury bypass tree-sits. Now she is back with Ghosts of the Farm: Two Women's Journeys Through Time, Land and Community. The book weaves together the true account of a pioneering woman farmer (Miss White) who lived in the author’s Berkshire village – Inkpen – 80 years ago, and the present-day experiences of the author as a woman also dreaming of becoming a farmer. Moving between Nicola’s own story and Miss White’s experiences in the 1940s, Ghosts of the Farm explores the connections and contrasts between

the past and the present. Absolutely sat down with Nicola to find out more.

Q Where did the idea for Ghosts of the Farm come from?

A After writing On Gallows Down, I was deliciously haunted by friendly ghosts from the rural homefront during and after the Second World War. Their stories had been swallowed by the mists of such a relatively short time, and I wanted to tell them. But I didn’t just want to retell history, and every time I found or ‘listened’ to one of these stories, it had something to tell us about how we live now. It became a rather lively conversation with ghosts! It demanded a universality, as well as relevance and a challenge to both their time and ours. I had some specific, unanswered questions – about farming modernisation and the sacrifice and forgetting of wildlife, feeding a nation under pressure, rural women and community in joy and togetherness.

Q Who is Miss White?

A Julia Maud White, 1900-1989, was astonishing. I’ve always known country women like her – indomitable, cheery, practical and thoughtful – driving around in

a Land Rover full of dogs, getting things done. But these were always older women – with no one following on behind. Why was that? Miss White published a now forgotten diary of her short, intense farming career, from 1940-1955 in 1985, when I was 15, and first ‘met’ her. A single, adventurous woman aged 40, she apprenticed herself to two remarkable women farmers in the next village to ours, living in a little, round, apple-green caravan for a year, before buying a dilapidated farm in my village. It was the most enormous challenge. There was a tree growing in the middle of the house, no water, sanitation or electricity, and as a ‘Boss Miss’ she had to win over her inherited farmhands – but she did, becoming a central, energetic and fun pillar of the community.

Q What did your research about life in Berkshire 80 years ago throw up?

A Several surprises, and familiar challenges! Farming was on its knees with an astonishing 70% of British food imported, but farmland wildlife was gloriously abundant. The biggest surprises were how accommodating, inclusive, and open to change, rural communities were. Miss White’s initial employees were a lesbian couple at the dynamic heart of their communities and utterly loved and accepted, and she learnt much of her ‘dairyman’ skills from a young Black farmworker. It was easier to become a woman farmer in the 1940s than it ever was in the 1980s, 90s and onwards – as I found out. But there were the same frustrations, joys and wry humour in rural community life as there are now; I felt if either community experienced a timeslip into another’s, we’d get on very well!

Q Do you still want to be a farmer, despite all the other strands to your career?

A I still do, yes! But I feel I can also be a ‘farmer of the imagination’ which is

where the book begins, with eight-yearold me. I can be engaged in farming and its challenges, help tell its stories, understand and support it through my writing and campaigning, as well as continuing to immerse myself in rural life. We ask an awful lot from our farmers in a way we don’t of other people’s jobs. But we need farming to work for all of us, farmers, consumers, climate and wildlife because those things really are the four legs holding up a table we all eat from. Farmers can’t do this alone!

Q You grew up in West Berkshire – were you immersed in nature from a very early age?

A I was! I was very lucky. My Mum and Grandad in particular encouraged that. I was endlessly curious. Connecting with my natural and wild neighbours was how I learnt to ‘belong’ to a place and community, and I think you can do that wherever you end up and however you get there. That’s true ‘ownership’ born of engagement on your terms, responsibility and love.

Q Did you feel you learnt a lot from just being in the open?

A Absolutely. There was a lot more freedom as a child then, without the threat of so many cars, for example. Adults weren’t concerned by seeing children playing outside as so many are now and you made your own discoveries. Of course there were risks, and there are many more challenges for children today – nostalgia rarely considers those!

Q Were you always going into a career involving nature and wildlife?

A All I ever wanted was a career in farming, with plenty of wildlife, nature and horses, and some kind of creative outlet in there too, either painting all of that, or writing about it!

Q Why did you start writing about nature and wildlife?

A It was dual-fuelled. I wanted to spread the joy, beauty, fascination and awe I felt in engaging with nature, but I was painfully aware of its constant destruction. So I also wanted to raise awareness and move people to notice, care and act. Writing can be a powerful, radical and galvanising act, but it needs to go handin-hand with action. I am an imperfect campaigner and never feel I do enough, but we do what we can with the resources, commitments, privileges and energies that we have, and support and lift others.

Q Do we need to teach the younger generation to get out and make the most of the natural world around them?

A I think we need to listen to, trust and understand them first, and lead by example. They have so very much to deal with – an uncertain climate, the impact of social media and gaming (good and bad), the advent of AI and so much more – all things we’ve delivered at their doorstep. But the natural world is key to their future, their health and wellbeing and that works both ways, so yes, we do. But we need to be kind, uncritical and we need to give them access, hope, joy and confidence too.

Q Finally, what places do you love to visit in and around Inkpen?

A I love to walk along the downs, anywhere. Greenham Common is a favourite spot, as are the water meadows along the River Pang or Thames near Pangbourne and Whitchurch. And if I’m anywhere near Reading, a visit to The MERL (The Museum of English Rural Life) is a must! I’d also love to explore the Chiltern Hills.

Ghosts of the Farm: Two Women’s Journeys Through Time, Land and Community by Nicola Chester is published by Chelsea Green on 30th September (£22, chelseagreen.co.uk)

TO TELL A story

Celebrating 20 years of the Roald Dahl Museum - and what else Great Missenden has to o er

Just over 20 years ago an empty bank went up for sale on the High Street of Great Missenden. This unassuming building would spark the idea of a museum dedicated to the life and stories of Roald Dahl. His widow, Liccy, set about creating this new home for Roald’s archive with the hope of creating a place to inspire and excite a love of reading in each child who visited.

Based in the village that Roald lived and wrote in, the museum has become a hub of wonder and magic which takes its role of

caring for Dahl’s creative legacy seriously. The site welcomes over 50,000 children, mums, dads, aunts, uncles, grannies, granddads, friends and fellow fans of Dahl’s magical books every year. For 20 years they have shared the stories behind the stories that Dahl dreamed up and wrote down in his world-famous Writing Hut –now preserved as the heart of the museum.

It is a place for children – and the inner child – of all ages, to nurture a love of stories and creativity. It is a place of beginnings, of getting things started. It is a place to be sparky.

Over the years the museum has seen its fair share of success. It won the Visit

England Awards for Excellence Small Visitor Attraction of the Year award in 2008, moved the Writing Hut into a newly developed ‘Solo’ gallery in 2012 and welcomed over 90,000 people in 2016, the year of Roald Dahl 100 – the centenary of his birth, a record number! But it’s not all been plain sailing. A flood saw the museum close for repairs for five months in 2018, with COVID closure taking hold just a few years later. These were challenging times for the museum – and the world at large – but it has bounced back with a huge amount of enthusiasm and determination to be the special place of inspiration, imagination and creativity it set out to be. Launching online school sessions, a new SEND programme, an under 5s o er, and a Glittering Eyes outreach programme with a local school have all helped new audiences fall in love with the stories and with their own creativity.

This year birthday celebrations were in full swing in June when the museum opened for a party. It featured the unveiling of a new interactive sculpture created for the occasion by artists Aprille McShane and Tony Broomhead, as well as games, magic and even a very special appearance from Miss Trunchbull herself. This kicked o a whole summer of Matilda celebrations for visitors to join in with during the school holidays. Mean old Miss Trunchbull will even be back on selected days so you’d better be on your best behaviour! The rest of the year will see a Literary Festival on 5th October, a

GREAT EXPECTATIONS

Great Missenden, a charming village nestled in the Chiltern Hills of Buckinghamshire, o ers much more than its connection to Roald Dahl. While the famous author put the village on the map for many, Great Missenden also boasts several other attractions that make it a delightful destination for visitors seeking countryside charm, cultural history, and scenic beauty. Here are five notable places of interest in and around Great Missenden.

GREAT MISSENDEN PARISH CHURCH (ST PETER AND ST PAUL’S CHURCH)

This beautiful parish church sits atop a hill overlooking the village, o ering both spiritual and historical interest. With parts of the church dating back to the 14th century, it is a serene spot filled with architectural charm. The churchyard is particularly notable, o ering a peaceful place for reflection and views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can admire the stained glass windows and the traditional English church architecture that has stood the test of time.

late-night Twits Halloween event on 30th October and Santa appearances on 6th and 13th December alongside a varied and hands-on programme of school holiday activities and weekend storytelling.

So, what’s in store for the next 20 years? The museum is about to embark on a complete redevelopment of its spaces. An evolution of the museum which will feel both comfortably familiar yet wonderfully fresh to help improve the experience of a visit and the positive impact the site has on the local area. The museum in its current (and still phizz-whizzing!) form will be open until at least the beginning of 2027, and the new Roald Dahl Museum should –with good fortune – reopen in 2028. It’s an exciting time as this great little museum takes giant strides into the future.

roalddahlmuseum.org

MISSENDEN ABBEY

Originally founded as a 12th-century Augustinian monastery, Missenden Abbey has a long and fascinating history. Although much of the original structure was lost during the Dissolution of the Monasteries, the current Georgian-style building retains the character of the original site.

THE CHILTERN HILLS (AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY)

Great Missenden lies within the Chiltern Hills, an o cially designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The surrounding landscape is criss-crossed by footpaths and bridleways, including sections of the South Bucks Way and the Ridgeway National Trail. Nature lovers and walkers will find an abundance of scenic routes through beech woodlands, rolling hills, and chalk valleys. Birdwatching, photography, and picnicking are popular activities in this quintessential English countryside.

GREAT MISSENDEN HIGH STREET

The High Street is a destination in its own right, o ering a mix of independent shops, traditional pubs, and cosy cafés. Many of the buildings date back to the 16th and 17th centuries, with characteristic timber framing and period charm. It’s a pleasant place to browse antique stores, enjoy a cream tea, or simply soak in the historic atmosphere. The Cross Keys and The George Inn are local favourites for hearty pub meals and a pint.

THE MISBOURNE STREAM AND WALKS

The River Misbourne is a chalk stream that winds through the village and adds to its idyllic charm. Walks along the river o er a peaceful way to explore Great Missenden’s natural beauty. The Misbourne Valley Trail is particularly popular with walkers and cyclists, linking several nearby villages and o ering scenic views along the way. The gentle sound of flowing water and the occasional glimpse of wildlife – such as kingfishers or water voles – make this a favourite for local walkers.

MISSENDEN

ABSOLUTELY ATTENDS

WEATHERBYS SUPER SPRINT DAY

Newbury Racecourse welcomed over 15,000 racing and music fans for a day to remember

More than 15,500 racing and music fans descended on Newbury Racecourse for Weatherbys Super Sprint on 19th July, a day which saw Ella Henderson and Sophie Ellis-Bextor perform live after racing.

The crowd – the Racecourse’s biggest since July 2023 – enjoyed top-tier racing and live music. The racing highlight came in the feature race, the Weatherbys Super Sprint Stakes, where Anthelia, under a perfectly timed ride by Lewis Edmunds, surged to victory right on the line in a dramatic finish that had the crowd on its feet.

Following the seven-race card, the excitement shifted to the Party in the Paddock with Hits Radio stage. Pop sensation Ella Henderson was first to perform, delivering a high-energy set that had the crowd singing along and dancing in the summer sunshine. She was followed by co-headliner, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, who brought her signature disco-pop flair to the stage, closing the day with a dazzling performance that kept spirits high well into the evening.

The success of Weatherbys Super Sprint Day set the tone for what has been a record-breaking summer at Newbury. The Racecourse hosted its next Party in the Paddock racedays, with Björn Again performing live on Friday 15th August before Clean Bandit took to the stage on Saturday 16th August as part of Visit Malta Hungerford Day with one lucky racegoer winning a dream holiday to Malta. BRIT-award winner James Bay rounds out the big summer at Newbury on Saturday 20th September as part of Dubai Duty Free International Weekend. With a blend of thrilling racing, worldclass live music, and a vibrant summer atmosphere, Newbury Racecourse continues to cement its reputation as one of the UK’s premier racing and entertainment destinations.

newburyracecourse.co.uk

SHOW

STOPPER

Why Fiddler on the Roof is a must-see when it comes to the Wycombe Swan

Fresh from a sold-out run at the Barbican Centre, London, Fiddler on the Roof is the must-see musical of 2025 and it’s coming to the Wycombe Swan stage for one week only. A theatrical triumph, winner of three Olivier Awards including Best Musical Revival, Fiddler On The Roof completely sold out at the Barbican. This is a rare opportunity to catch this critically acclaimed production direct from the West End, from the powerhouse creative team directed by Jordan Fein (Oklahoma, Young Vic), choreographed by Julia Cheng (Cabaret), designed by Tom Scutt (Winner of the 2025 Olivier Award for Fiddler On The Roof).

Set in the small village of Anatevka in 1905, the story follows Tevye (Matthew Woodyatt), a milkman devoted to his family and his traditions in equal measure. With five independent-minded daughters and a changing world around him, Tevye finds himself torn between the comfort of the old ways and the pull of the new.

"IT IS HAILED AS ONE OF THE GREATEST MUSICALS OF ALL TIME"

Hailed as one of the greatest musicals of all time, the award-winning production will have you laughing and crying in equal measure. You’ll leave the theatre humming the shows iconic soundtrack including If I Were A Rich Man, Tradition, Matchmaker and Sunrise, Sunset

Whether you’re discovering Fiddler on the Roof for the first time or coming back to an old favourite, this heartfelt story and critically acclaimed production promises an exceptional night of theatre you’ll remember for years to come.

Fiddler on the Roof comes to the Wycombe Swan stage from Tuesday 16th-Saturday 20th September. See more at trafalgartickets.com

D“Donnington & Co has been elevated to new heights – and there's more news on the horizon”

A fresh LOOK

Donnington Valley Hotel unveils its next era as Donnington & Co

onnington Valley Hotel & Spa in Newbury, Berkshire, has entered a new era. The hotel has rebranded to become Donnington & Co, familiar in name, yet transformed in spirit.

For many years the property has been a trusted destination for leisure and corporate guests. Privately owned by Sir Peter Michael and family, it has long been known for its spectacular spa, 18-hole golf course and a team who o er genuine hospitality.

This summer marks the unveiling of a significant investment and redevelopment.

The reception, lobby, bar, restaurant and suites have been reimagined to create spaces that feel both contemporary and comfortably familiar. The transformed entrance now o ers a crisp, fresh welcome that sets the tone for the stay ahead, while the restaurant, Press, has evolved into a more intimate setting in warm copper, gold and orange tones, anchored by a striking central banquet table.

The refreshed brand identity of Donnington & Co mirrors the physical and cultural evolution of the hotel with a new logo, updated fonts and refined colour palette. Donnington & Co now brings together all elements of the business: the hotel, golf course, spa, Press restaurant, The HangOut, and the elegant events venue, The Post – all part of a connected, cohesive guest experience.

Andrew McKenzie, Managing Director of Donnington Group, comments: “We are absolutely delighted to finally be able to show everyone what we have achieved

in a few short months. Donnington & Co has been elevated to new heights, and with more news on the horizon, there are exciting times ahead. We are looking forward to welcoming guests old and new through the doors and elevating Donnington & Co into the upper echelons of fourstar properties throughout the UK.”

Visitors can expect more than stylish design; every detail has been considered, every space feels naturally in place, and the service is warm, personal and e ortless. Easy to reach, hard to forget, Donnington & Co marks a new chapter in e ortless hospitality.

For more information visit donnington.co

SPECIAL

STAY

THIS RECOGNITION REFLECTS THE PASSION OUR TEAM BRINGS TO EVERY EXPERIENCE

Burnham Beeches Hotel has been nominated at the 2025 World Luxury Hotel Awards

Burnham Beeches Hotel has been named as a leader in luxury hospitality after being shortlisted for Luxury Country Hotel, Luxury Wedding Hotel, and Luxury Romantic Hotel in the 2025 World Luxury Hotel Awards. Burnham Beeches Hotel is a Georgian country house nestled within a protected nature reserve in Buckinghamshire. The property kicked o the year by unveiling a multi-million pound renovation, o ering a luxurious countryside escape with beautifully designed rooms, a nature-led spa, and a standout food and drink o ering. Proudly standing as the inaugural property of Immersive Hospitality

Management’s Imerso Hotels Collection, Burnham Beeches Hotel has centred wellness, connectivity, and sustainability throughout the re-design process, to ensure wellbeing is at the forefront of the immersive guest experience that awaits. There are 80 rooms and suites, as well as dining, afternoon tea and drinks o erings in Brasserie 1727, the Arden Room, The Evergreen Tea Room and the Verdure Lounge Bar. Guests can unwind in the natural surroundings exploring the ten acres of private land, or in the pool and treatment rooms. Weddings and events are also catered for with various packages, set against the backdrop of the grand Georgian architecture and manicured lawns. Refurbished in 2024, Burnham Beeches

Hotel infuses its natural surroundings through bold design in a respectfully refreshed style that pays homage to the historical, heritage property.

These nominations are a fantastic achievement for the property. Danka Groenewald, general manager, comments: “We’re honoured to be nominated across such meaningful categories. Each nomination speaks to a part of what makes Burnham Beeches so special – its setting, its history, and the way it continues to bring people together. Most of all, this recognition reflects the passion and care our team brings to every guest experience.”

Previously, the property has been recognised for its dining o ering, holding 2 AA Rosette status in the restaurant until 2023. Alongside this, the hotel is committed to achieving best practice in environmental and social sustainability, achieving the EarthCheck Bronze Accreditation in 2024.

Voting is now open, to vote for Burnham Beeches Hotel visit luxuryhotelawards. com/hotel/burnham-beeches-hotel

September trip

Why now is the perfect time to visit ABBA Voyage in London

Since opening in 2022, over three million fans from across the world have seen Agnetha, Björn, Benny and Frida’s digital performance on stage at London’s ABBA Arena. This year marked the third anniversary of ABBA Voyage in London, and to celebrate, ABBA have added a little something to their concert with new tracks including Name of the Game and Money, Money, Money Blending cutting-edge technology, spectacular lighting, and music from the pop group’s phenomenal 50-year career, ABBA takes to the stage in a whole new way. This really is a concert that “needs to be seen to be believed” (BBC). ABBA Voyage is a groundbreaking 100-minute spectacle. The concert features digital

versions of Agnetha, Björn, Benny, and Frida, recreated via motion- capture to appear as they did in their late -1970s prime. These digital versions perform iconic hits such as Dancing Queen, Mamma Mia, and Waterloo, accompanied by a live 10-piece band and dynamic lighting, lasers, and surround sound. Critics have praised the visuals as “jaw- dropping” and “brain- exploding,” with some saying they genuinely couldn’t tell what was real.

Housed in the ABBA Arena, ABBA Voyage is just one minute’s walk from Pudding Mill Lane station (served by the DLR) or can be reached via London Underground, London Overground and National Rail Services from Stratford and is just 20 minutes from central London. What’s more, this summer, the ABBA Arena spills outdoors with a dedicated

summer experience – a celebration of long evenings, great music, and unforgettable memories. Every Friday and Saturday, get party ready with live DJ sets before the concert. Sip a refreshing mocktail or enjoy a glass of rosé at the outdoor bar, where guests can soak up the sun and enjoy light bites from the seasonal summer menu. All tickets o er a great view of the concert, so whether you’re looking to meet friends on the dance floor, take in the views from a seat, or party in a private dance booth, there’s something for everyone. So if you are looking to make your first visit to the ABBA Arena – or you have already enjoyed the concert – this summer there are yet more reasons to take a trip to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

abbavoyage.com

ABBA ARENA OUTDOOR SEATING

CHIQUITITA, ABBA VOYAGE, ABBA ARENA, PHOTO BY JOHAN PERSSON

& DRINK

COPAS FARM SHOP

The Thoughtful Producer chickens are raised slowly and naturally, free to roam lush meadows and forage as they please. This active lifestyle develops firm, succulent meat and stunning flavour. When cooked, these chickens bring a true farm-totable experience to your plate.

copasfarmshop.co.uk

WHAT TO DRINK

TASTING

NOTES

The latest launches and news from across the county

GRAPE news

Wine recommendations for the month

Corse Calvi Rouge, Clos Culombu 2023

£15.50



Sangiovese isn’t only for Italian wines, Corsica also has some to o er. This red has wild herbs and strawberries and is the perfect option to chill.

Garda DOC Spumante Brut

 £8.50

A brilliant alternative to Prosecco, this crisp and vivid sparkling wine is made mainly from the garganega grape, sourced from vineyards in Soave in north-east Italy. Bright and citrusy, it bursts with lemon and lime zest, displaying ripe pear fruit on the palate. A refreshing finish makes this a lovely, easy-going aperitif. Sip away and imagine you're on the shores of Lake Garda.

Almazuela Verdejo 2024

£10.50



A refreshing Spanish white made from organic verdejo grapes, and a Rueda in all but name as the grapes come from very fine vineyards there.

Since it was founded back in 1874, The Wine Society has dared to do business a little differently. Bringing together a community united by a shared love of wine, The Society is a co-operative and owned by its members. This means there is no requirement to pump profit into annual dividends or bonuses for shareholders – all profits go back into the business.

The Wine Society welcomes all wine lovers. Become a member today and receive £20 off toward your first order. thewinesociety.com

By MARK KEBBLE

Root to success

OAK

Set in the Crazy Bear Stadhampton, the bold new restaurant OAK brings an elevated fine dining experience to Oxfordshire. Head Chef Callum Holyland leads OAK’s culinary direction, with over 14 years in the hospitality industry. His menu at OAK is both refined and approachable, showcasing seasonal, locally sourced ingredients with a modern flair.

crazybear.co.uk

Luscious lawn

THE VINEYARD HOTEL & SPA

The Vineyard Hotel & Spa elevated summer dining with the debut of Lobster on the Lawn, an enchanting al fresco experience. The Michelin Guide One Key holder combined this exciting experience with its 'Stay Longer, Discover More', creating the ultimate summer escape. the-vineyard.co.uk

Rave review

MACDONALD HOTELS & RESORTS

TOP THREE

Matcha mixes

GRIND

Grind's delicious ready-to-drink Iced Oat Matcha Latte is made using ceremonial-grade matcha and creamy dairy-free oat drink. Or you might prefer to buy the matcha kit and make your own. grind.co.uk

FLOOZIE

Floozie is offering four matcha flavours for summer: Mango Matcha Colada, Strawberry Matcha Spritz, White Chocolate Matcha, and a Blueberry Butterfly Matcha. flooziecookies.com

UESHIMA

SWEET TREATS

LITTLE DESSERT SHOP

Little Dessert Shop is back with a bold new line-up. The new menu features items such as a Dragon Fruit Glitter Lemonade using 1883s Dragon Fruit Syrup, for which Little Dessert Shop has the exclusive usage rights. The brand’s hot and iced chocolate range has also become richer, creamier and more indulgent.

Macdonald Windsor Hotel and The Berystede, both part of the Macdonald Hotels & Resorts group, have each been recognised in Tripadvisor’s Traveller’s Choice Awards 2025. Reviews praised Macdonald Windsor Hotel and The Berystede for their picturesque views, beautiful gardens, attentive service. macdonaldhotels.co.uk

Ueshima's iced matcha latte is light and sweet with a delicate taste of matcha and a hint of white chocolate. ueshimacoffeecompany.com

ROAR APPEAL

GEORGE & DRAGON

An iconic pub on Marlow’s bustling high street, The George & Dragon has undergone a multi-millionpound refurbishment. The sensitive renovation carefully preserves the building’s listed features while introducing Heartwood’s signature warm, quirky style. littledessertshop.co.uk

georgeanddragonmarlow.com

“THE PASSION FOR THE RESTAURANT BUILT UP OVER A LONG TIME”

NHAN NGUYEN

SUUM of its PARTS

Nhan Nguyen tells Absolutely about being the only Vietnamese restaurant in Buckinghamshire and how their o ering continues to evolve

Q How important was food and eating together with your family growing up in Vietnam?

A Incredibly important. Food is a big part of Vietnamese culture, and there’s a big focus on eating together as a family. Growing up, although it was hard for us to do this in the day, we always sat down to a meal together in the evening. My mum would prepare three or four dishes. Everything was home cooked from scratch, with a big focus on flavours, as well a balance of sweet, sour and salty. We’d have vegetables, proteins and carbs and always pho, a broth which is the national dish of Vietnam.

Q What originally brought you to England?

A I came to England to study for a degree in business and although I loved the country, I really missed the flavours of home which were exceptionally hard to come by here. Even though I enjoyed the business side of things, I always had a passion to cook.

Q Was it easy to find the ingredients you needed to cook the flavours from home?

A Not when I initially came here – it was almost impossible. It’s only really been over the past seven years that authentic ingredients have been more accessible, now you can even find them in the Asian aisle of most supermarkets, but we use suppliers in London.

Q What role does your wife Pham play in your story?

A I was working in London at the time, and she was studying. We were introduced by my cousin and bonded over our shared love of travel and food. Date nights always involved trying new cuisines from around the world, as well as searching for that authentic taste of Vietnam.

Q What were some of the most memorable restaurants you visited together?

A Sông Quê Café in Shoreditch does the most amazing Pho, as well as a selection of side dishes. Long Dan is in the same location and that one specialises in very thin rice crepes which are incredible. My wife used to work at Mango Tree Thai restaurant in Mayfair when she was a student and we absolutely loved to eat there when we could a ord to! I love all types of cuisines, especially Indian. Atul Kochhar’s restaurant in Mayfair, Kanishka, is a favourite of mine. I’m a big fan and am honoured that he brings his family to eat in my restaurant.

Q Was there one moment that inspired you to open your own restaurant?

A Not really a moment, the passion for this built up over a long period of time. Since moving to the UK, I’ve always had a desire to pass on authentic flavours of Vietnam to people, to promote the dishes of my homeland to people in the West and showcase how special it is. I also want to educate people about the di erence between Vietnamese and other Asian cuisines. It’s for these reasons that I decided to open a restaurant.

Q By this point, how long had you been living in Marlow?

A I moved to Marlow in 2011, and we opened the restaurant in December 2017.

Q How did it feel to be the first Vietnamese restaurant in Buckinghamshire –and to still be the only one?

A It’s absolutely amazing and an honour to be honest. It means so much to us that we can showcase this new, refined, modern Vietnamese cuisine to the people of Buckinghamshire and do this in the gastronomic destination of Marlow is the icing on the cake!

Q How di erent was the menu in the early days compared to now?

A There was a lot more on the menu when we first opened. I think people expect this of Asian restaurants and that’s why we o ered so much choice, but I wanted to do something di erent. I didn’t want to be a Vietnamese street food restaurant; I wanted to blend the unique and bold flavours of my homeland with fine dining. I wanted

restaurant industry is terrible for this, but we almost have zero waste at Suum. That’s because I can now plan better and make the best use of all ingredients. We are also MSG-free – which again is unusual for Asian restaurants. And we are very conscious about providing a varied menu for those with allergies or dietary requirements.

to focus on how dishes look on the plate, as well as how they taste, and I wanted this to be a unique dining experience. We have not only elevated the dishes, but the whole dining experience over the past eight years.

Q How important was enrolling at Le Cordon Bleu London?

A This was a dream. I’d spent many years looking for the right place to train and I knew this was it. It’s internationally renowned. I could work in Michelin star restaurants across the world with this qualification. I’m always chasing perfection in my cooking and in everything that I do and this training certainly helps with that.

Q What would you say were the key things you learnt in your time there?

A There wasn’t anything the course didn’t cover. I learnt how to organise a workspace, the best way to use ingredients and how to pay attention to every small detail. I also learnt about the art of presentation and the fine dining experience. Oh and patisserie was a passion of mine – I actually came top of the class in that – people don’t tend to associate desserts with Asian restaurants, but ours are hugely popular and I love making a modern, elevated dessert from authentic ingredients and traditional recipes passed down through my family.

Q How did it influence a change in menu at Suum Kitchen?

A We became more refined. Made better use of ingredients. Introduced desserts that not only taste good but look exceptional – they are certainly Instagrammable! I’m also very focused on reducing food waste. The

Q You are busy preparing to launch a new menu – what can we expect to find on it?

A Well, some of the old classics are making a comeback – with a twist! These are elevated dishes. We have a dragon fried seabass dish –it’s lightly battered and marinated with garlic and chilli, served with mango salad and lots of herbs. A wrap and roll roast duck with spring onions, cucumber and our home-made hoisin dipping sauce, seafood pho with squid and king prawns in a lemongrass/garlic saute broth, chilli squid with a five-spice dipping sauce, green mango salad with fragrant herbs and a chilli garlic dressing with either BBQ pork or prawns and something for the meat fans – it’s a combination of dishes: BBQ pork, chargrilled betel leaves with pork and beef, spring rolls with pork and shiitake mushrooms all wrapped in crispy sun-dried rice paper.

Q Would you like Suum Kitchen to expand, or are you quite happy in Marlow?

A Well, we love being in Marlow, but expansion is always on my mind. I have a couple of locations in mind – Oxford and London. That way we can spread the word and our food far and wide and really open people’s eyes to Vietnamese cuisine which is, by its very nature, completely di erent to other Asian cuisines.

Q And tell us about the name of the restaurant…

A Suum is a creative name for the restaurant, derived from “sum vầy”, which means a cosy gathering around the dining table. So whilst we want to create a special experience, we also want everyone to feel completely at home when they come to our restaurant.

suumkitchen.com

Royal occasion

The Crown in Penn, where countryside retreat meets contemporary pub

Nestled in picturesque Penn, in the rolling Chiltern Hills, The Crown has been commanding attention for its refreshing take on the modern British pub. Just a 15-minute drive from High Wycombe, its innovative menus, considered interiors and community-feel make it the destination of choice, for those in the know.

Following a sensitive restoration, the 500-year-old coaching inn, which reopened last October, o ers the perfect blend of historic charm and design-led interiors. Restored original features such as open fireplaces and red-quarry tiles sit alongside modern additions, creating a setting that is as stylish as it is welcoming.

Outside, the landscaped garden has been thoughtfully designed to include an outdoor bar, secluded seating, and

“The menu is where comforting and inventive dishes converge”

heaters, for guests wanting to dine al fresco. From the moment that you walk through the door, The Crown’s delivery of an enjoyable and personable experience is evident. Brought to life by the friendly team, their passion for customer service is only matched by their enthusiasm for the pub’s incredible food and drink selection.

With a focus on great social food, the menu takes guests through from brunch to supper, and includes a range of pub snacks and small sharing plates to Sunday roasts with all the trimmings. There’s also the popular Prix-Fixe menu, running Monday to Thursday, o ering two or three courses from just £18.

Curated by The Crown’s chefs, the menu is where both inventive and comforting dishes converge, with elevated classics sitting alongside seasonal specials. Rooted in British seasonality, the team proudly works with established producers such as award-winning butchers, Turner &

George, ensuring the highest quality ingredients that help to shape dishes such as 28 day dry-aged flat iron steak with fries and roasted garlic butter, and Lobster Thermidor sourdough crumpet, with pink grapefruit, caper and herb salad. Championing craft and cask ales, The Crown’s bar is the heart and soul of the local pub. A rotating selection of seasonal guest ales from local breweries sit alongside the core drinks range including draught beer and ciders, signature cocktails, ‘low & no’ selections, and barista-style co ees. A sommelierselected wine list is also available, featuring over 48 wines from across the world.

More than just a pub, The Crown hosts a range of monthly events in collaboration with local groups, creatives, and artists. Not forgetting the pub’s VIPs (very important pooches!), The Crown is proud to be a dog-friendly pub with “muddy boots and paws always welcome”.

Whether it’s a family get-together, escaping the city for a weekend break, or simply seeking a quiet pint after a long dog walk, The Crown has that cosy, laid-back feeling that will keep you coming back for more.

To find out more about The Crown or to book, visit thecrown-penn.co.uk

TASTE

Award-winning flavour at Copas Farm Shop

The team at Copas Farm Shop in Cookham, Berkshire, has plenty to celebrate this year, with five of their products earning coveted recognition at the prestigious 2025 Great Taste Awards. Known for their commitment to quality, animal welfare, and traditional farming methods, the Copas family continues to set the bar high for locally produced, premium food.

Leading the accolades was their signature Whole Free Range Turkey, which scooped an impressive two Gold Stars. Judges were full of praise, describing it as, “a gorgeous beast to look at… the dark meat has a hearty flavour, while the white meat surprised us with its depth. The fat, too, carries the richness we were hoping for from a free-range bird.”

What sets a Copas turkey apart is time. Unlike most supermarket turkeys, which are typically slaughtered far younger, Copas

birds are reared to full maturity at 24-26 weeks. This extended life allows them to develop a natural fat layer that locks in flavour, makes the meat succulent, and ensures ease of cooking – no basting, no brining, just a little salt before popping it in the oven for consistently delicious results.

The farm’s award success doesn’t end there. Stroll around the beautiful Cookham site and you’ll find Galloway cattle grazing peacefully alongside the turkeys. The Braising Steak from these very cattle was honoured with two Gold Stars, while the Rump Steak also earned high praise from the judges.

“Visitors might spot turkeys playing tambourines”

Copas Farm Shop’s excellence extends to poultry as well. Their Thoughtful Producer brand of free-range chicken continues to impress, with the Whole Chicken securing a Gold Star in 2025 – the third year running after wins in 2024 and 2023. These are available fresh year-round exclusively through Ocado, or frozen directly from the farm shop, allowing customers across the country to enjoy a taste of Cookham.

For those yet to discover Cookham, this picturesque Thames-side village lies just upriver from Marlow and makes for an ideal day out. A public footpath runs right through the middle of the farm, where visitors might spot turkeys “playing tambourines” (yes, really), as well as alpacas and the distinctive Galloway herd. Round o your visit with a meal at one of the village’s excellent gastropubs, and you’ll have the perfect recipe for a day well spent.

For more information or to order produce, visit copasfarmshop.co.uk

Diamonds speak louder than words

FASHION

Burning BRIGHT

BERRY’S JEWELLERS

Drawing inspiration from the delicate yet powerful elements of nature - rippling water, layered rock formations, undulating sand dunes, and the striking brilliance of flame - the stunning Ember Collection blends elegance and boldness. Discover the Ember Collection in Berry’s boutiques and online at berrysjewellers.co.uk

RISE SUEDE SHOE BITTER CHOCOLATE, £219

ENZO SNAKE EFFECT LEATHER LOAFTER IN HONEY SNAKE, £219

BLANCA SUEDE BOOT BITTER CHOCOLATE, £369

HANSINE

Medea dress (le ), £395; Hestia dress, £350 hansineshop.co

GLOBETROTTER

Peanuts leather luggage tag, £155 globe-trotter.com

EDITOR’S

CLAUDIA MAE

Soluna pendant, £POA claudiamae.com

TUSTING

Como Tote, £355 tusting.co.uk

Coco bikini, £220 nounou.co.uk

ASPIGA

Brady cheesecloth skirt, £85 aspiga.com

TORY BURCH

Electric Sky eau de parfum, £80 toryburch.com

ROXY

Atlas triangle bikini top, £35 and bottoms, £35 roxy-uk.co.uk

MOTHER La DoubleJ x Mother Dodger shorts , £578 motherdenim.com

By PENDLE HARTE

WIGGY KIT

The Alex popover, £335 wiggykit.com

EBERJEY

Gisele shortie PJ set, £155 eberjey.com

LOEFFLER RANDALL

Ozzy sandal, £228 loeffl errandall.com

NOUNOU

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Cloud Twelve is a one-of-a-kind wellness and lifestyle club in London, extending over three floors with an interactive play and learn zone for families with

CLOUD TWELVE

“Back In Action sources designs that are both functional and beautiful”

BACK STORY

Are you sitting comfortably? If not, Back in Action can help

HOW MUCH IS IT WORTH TO LOSE YOUR BACK PAIN?

That’s an intriguing question, isn’t it? Many would pay a small fortune if they knew for certain that a solution would finally work.

According to ergonomic experts at Back In Action, over 80% of their clients experience youthful movement again, with less pain, enabling them to continue with work and enjoy their favourite sports.

functional and beautiful. They believe that furniture should enhance any home or o ce without compromising style.

Over 80% is quite a claim, but customers have voted them Number One in the UK for four consecutive years. As a family business, they take immense pride in this achievement. If you su er from back pain, it’s time to visit their website or one of their stores.

Founder David Newbound notes that many clients arrive at Back In Action having lost hope of permanent relief.

“Most pain can be fixed by rest and skilled treatment,” David explains. “However, we often see clients who have been referred by practitioners when progress has stalled. They may have tried various treatments, painkillers, and even switched mattresses, yet they still su er pain and feel increasingly demoralised.”

SPEND A LITTLE, GAIN A LOT?

Many clients find themselves surprised by the aesthetic appeal of Back In Action’s showrooms, resembling design-led furniture stores. This is intentional: Back In Action sources designs that are both

WHERE DO THE HEALTH BENEFITS COME FROM?

With a name like Back In Action, it’s no surprise they emphasise movement – getting your spine moving and getting you and your back back into action. The health benefits stem from promoting movement that keeps blood circulating, even while sitting. This can lead to a positive feedback loop of decreased pain and increased activity.

A SOLUTION FOR EVERYONE

Think your spine is beyond help? Back In Action has developed an innovative method to rejuvenate spinal movement: The Mobiliser. It has gained MOD medical approval and received accolades from thousands who claim it has transformed their lives. A test session is free, and they o er “Spine Reset Packages” for home that are a ordable for most people.

backinaction.co.uk

THE STRESSLESS MAYFAIR CHAIR

SOL DE JANEIRO Cheirosa 48 Perfume Mist, £24 johnlewis.com

SISLEY Sunleÿa AntiAgeing Sun Care SPF50+, £223 sisley-paris.com

Lip Sleeping Mask, £21 laneige.com

TOO FACED Cloud Crush Lip and Cheek Colour, £22 toofaced.co.uk TOM FORD Soleil Lip Balm, £37 tomfordbeauty.co.uk

NUXE Prodigieuse Boost SelfTanning Serum, 30ml, £38 johnlewis.com VICTORIA BECKHAM BEAUTY Colour Wash, £44 victoriabeckhambeauty.com THE ORDINARY UV Filters SPF 45 Serum, £15.80 theordinary.com

By PENDLE HARTE

High Shine Gloss Mask, £28 moroccanoil.com ULTRASUN Body Tan Activator SPF 50 Spray, £32 johnlewis.com Future Skin Oil-Free Gel Foundation, £83 chantecaille.co.uk

Mini Laguna Bronzer & Lip Oil Duo Makeup Gi Set, £30 narscosmetics.co.uk

BEAT BACKPAIN NOW!

Tackle back pain from the comfort of your own home

Just place the

MOBILISER

on the floor, (folding couch optional) lie down and feel the results.

Had a Mobiliser for many years. Bought for my husband who had a bad back. I use it now to ease aches, migraines, it helps with sleep. We love it!

The Spine Reset Package includes a MOBILISER and personal guidance. Collect or have delivered. Mobilisers can be shared by the whole family at no extra cost. Try now... why wait?

FASHION conscious

Strutting out of stigma: mobility with flair

On Sunday 14th September 2025, from 2pm to 4pm, We Do Mobility in Beaconsfield invites you to join a truly unique and empowering event: Fashion-Ability, a charity catwalk show that combines mobility with style, all in support of five remarkable causes.

Too often, mobility aids are seen purely through the lens of necessity – useful, yes, but far from chic. Fashion-Ability shatters that stereotype. Imagine wheelchairs, scooters, rollators, and powerchairs reimagined as fashion statements –outfitted, accessorised, and modelled with the elegance of couture. This event is more than a show – it’s a vibrant celebration of independence, confidence, and creativity. As a family-run, Buckinghamshire-based specialist providing, servicing and repairing mobility equipment, We Do Mobility has long been committed to enhancing lives across Beaconsfield, Uxbridge, and beyond. Fashion-Ability takes that spirit to the

next level – raising awareness, raising funds, and raising a glass to mobility that’s bold, beautiful, and barrier-breaking.

What can attendees expect? A runway alive with models showcasing an inventive blend of mobility and fashion, local supporters united for an inspiring cause, and an atmosphere bound by community spirit. The event underscores that accessibility and style aren’t mutually exclusive – they can walk hand in hand.

So mark your calendars: 14th September, 2pm to 4pm. Whether you’re looking to champion a great cause, support local innovation, or simply experience something fresh and uplifting, Fashion-Ability promises to be a radiant highlight of the season.

We Do Mobility warmly welcomes everyone to this stylish showcase of strength, mobility, and inclusion. Join them in redefining how we mobilise – together.

Get your tickets at wedomobility.co.uk/fashionability

PAWS CITY BY REHASENSE

NAVIGATOR AIR BY REHASENSE

Heritage Modern

Exploring a 16th-century farmhouse reimagined

Tucked away in the rolling hills of the Berkshire countryside, a once-timeworn 16thcentury farmhouse has been meticulously transformed into a soulful, modern family home. Thanks to a sensitive, full-scale renovation by multidisciplinary Design Practice HollandGreen, Rowfield House is ready for the 21st century and beyond.

Bridging five centuries of history with the needs of living today, the project strikes a delicate balance between preservation and progress. The result is a rich, layered interior that honours the farmhouse’s heritage while delivering on contemporary comfort, flow and function.

DESIGNED WITH SOUL, LED BY TRUST

“Rowfield House had all the ingredients for something truly special,” says Maddy Bull, senior interior designer at HollandGreen. “It’s packed with character, and our clients were wonderfully open in their brief. That creative trust gave us freedom to sensitively reinvent the space while staying grounded in its history.”

Instead of replicating period details, the team focused on creating a timeless language, where old and new coexist seamlessly. From restored beams to new architectural interventions, every element was chosen with care.

At the heart of the transformation is a rear extension, discreet from the front, yet a game-changer in how the house now functions. This addition is home to a light-filled kitchen, dining area and informal living room. A flat roof and clean lines provide a subtle

architectural contrast to the original pitched form, establishing a respectful dialogue between past and present.

“It’s a quiet intervention,” says Maddy. “Clearly modern, but rooted in its context. You feel the change in era, but it doesn’t shout for attention.”

KITCHEN AS THE HEARTBEAT

Now the beating heart of the home, the kitchen is a masterclass in refined functionality. In-frame Langsta Shaker cabinetry, hand-painted in a grounded beige-green, pairs with a standout waterfall-edge quartz island and a stained timber base, bringing together traditional craftsmanship and contemporary finesse. Brass Perrin & Rowe taps add patina and personality, evolving with time.

Crucially, the kitchen was relocated from another part of the house, allowing for an open-plan layout that supports family life today. “It’s a space designed for connection,” says Maddy. “Not just cooking, but gathering, sharing, living.”

O the main kitchen, a bespoke walk-in pantry carved from a former corridor o ers one of the home’s most atmospheric moments. Painted in a rich green that shifts with the light, and layered with grooved panelling, the space is as practical as it is full of charm.

In the dining area, the focus is on celebrating what already existed – exposed brick, original beams and a restored fireplace. A live-edge oak dining table introduces artisanal modernity, while warm-toned chairs and pale oak flooring anchor the room in natural materials.

“The past hasn't been lost, it's been carried forward with care and creativity”

“It was a collaborative process with the clients,” Maddy notes. “They had strong taste and a clear budget. We worked closely to create a curated shopping list that reflected their style and stayed true to the design ethos.”

EVERYDAY ELEGANCE: UTILITY MEETS BEAUTY

In the original part of the house, the design narrative continues with newly introduced practical spaces – a boot room and utility room – crafted with the same care as the living areas. Bespoke joinery

in a classic green provides ample storage, and tumbled limestone flooring o ers tactile beauty with real-world durability.

“These rooms are the unsung heroes of the home,” Maddy adds. “They’re designed to support daily life, but still feel part of the whole.”

Upstairs, the transformation takes a serene turn. The principal suite now includes a bespoke dressing area and a tranquil en-suite with vaulted ceilings, hand-cut Zellige tiles, and a custom vanity by Parker Howley & Co with reeded drawers and a Carrara marble top. The palette is soft and subdued. Think o -whites, pale greys and natural wood, designed to calm and cocoon.

HONOURING THE PAST, EMBRACING THE PRESENT

Throughout the home, HollandGreen’s approach is one of thoughtful evolution, not erasure. It’s a story of architectural legacy reimagined for a modern family, with design that is responsive, richly layered and quietly luxurious.

“This project is all about balance,” Maddy concludes. “It still feels like a farmhouse, but now it’s one that truly works for the people who live in it. The past hasn’t been lost, it’s been carried forward with care and creativity.”

HollandGreen is an award-winning, multidisciplinary studio founded in 2010. With a unique blend of expertise in architecture, interior design and landscape design, coupled with a turnkey service approach, the practice delivers exceptional results tailored to its clients' vision and lifestyle.

in COLOUR

Exploring how Farrow & Ball Colour Consultancy can bring your interior design to life

BESPOKE JOURNEY

Step into any Farrow & Ball showroom, and you’ll discover more than beautifully crafted paint colours and timeless wallpapers. You’ll find a service that is as personal as it is professional – the Farrow & Ball Colour Consultancy. This bespoke, collaborative experience is designed to take the uncertainty out of decorating and replace it with confidence, creativity, and a scheme that feels unmistakably yours. Colour Consultancy is where ideas and expertise meet. It begins with listening: to your space, your lifestyle, and your personal tastes. Every home tells a story, and every client has a vision – sometimes clearly

defined, sometimes just a feeling waiting to take shape. The Farrow & Ball Colour Consultant’s role is to draw that vision out, understand it fully, and transform it into a beautifully tailored colour scheme that works e ortlessly in your home. Clients turn to Colour Consultancy for many reasons. Some feel overwhelmed by choice and long for guidance from someone who can see the bigger picture. Others have a strong idea of what they like, but aren’t sure how to bring it together in a way that feels harmonious. And for some, it’s simply the reassurance of having an expert who understands the nuances of light, texture, and proportion – someone who can fine-tune a scheme so it feels perfect from the very first brushstroke.

A Farrow & Ball Colour Consultant brings an artist’s eye and a technician’s precision to every project. They’re trained to notice details most would overlook, from the changing quality of daylight in a north-facing room to the subtle undertones in a much-loved sofa fabric. They balance the new with the existing, finding ways to celebrate architectural features or seamlessly integrate treasured pieces. Even the view through a window becomes part of the consideration, ensuring the colour inside complements the world outside. Light is at the heart of their work. They know how profoundly it can alter the character of a colour, and they use it to your advantage. A room bathed in morning sun might call for a softer, warmer palette,

while a shaded corner could come alive with a bolder hue. They’re equally skilled at shaping how a space feels – making a small room seem larger, bringing intimacy to an open-plan area, or easing the awkwardness of an attic’s sloping ceiling.

Importantly, they never view a single room in isolation. Instead, they create a sense of flow throughout your home, ensuring each space has its own personality while still belonging to a cohesive whole. Lifestyle plays just as central a role as aesthetics. Whether you dream of a serene living room to unwind in, a lively playroom that sparks creativity, or a kitchen that supports the bustle of everyday life, your Colour Consultant will design a scheme that supports the way you live.

And then there’s taste. Contemporary or classic, maximalist or minimal, neutral or pattern-rich, every scheme reflects the homeowner’s style. The Farrow & Ball Colour Consultant listens, interprets, and refines, ensuring the final palette feels like an authentic extension of the client’s personality.

The journey begins simply. You choose a date, a time, and whether the consultation takes place in your home or over a video call. Appointments can be as brief or as in-depth as needed, though as a guide, an hour is often enough to create schemes for up to four rooms, but note that the time required really depends on the complexity and scale of the project – for example, a highly detailed room in a manor house will take much longer to scope than a single room in a flat. Before the day arrives, your Colour Consultant will call to discuss your project – how many rooms you’d like to transform, your aspirations for each, and any strong preferences or aversions you may have. Mood boards are optional, but always welcome.

If you’ve booked a virtual consultation, you’ll receive a colour card and fan deck in advance, giving you the tools to explore possibilities before your session. For

in-home visits, your Colour Consultant arrives equipped with everything needed to visualise your scheme in real time.

The consultation itself is a collaborative moment. Together, you and your consultant move through your space – physically or virtually – discussing light, features, proportions, and atmosphere. Every recommendation is bespoke, chosen to complement your home’s character and your own style. When your session ends, you’re left not just with ideas, but with a complete, ready-to-implement plan.

Afterwards, you’ll receive a detailed set of recommendations covering colours, finishes, and patterns, along with precise quantities to order. This takes away any guesswork, allowing you to decorate with confidence.

The support doesn’t end there. Farrow & Ball encourages clients to share their finished rooms, and your Colour Consultant remains a point of contact for follow-up questions. You can also reach out to your local showroom or the customer services team for continued advice as you bring your scheme to life.

It’s this combination of creativity, technical skill, and personal attention that makes Farrow & Ball’s Colour Consultancy truly unique. The service goes beyond simply choosing paint – it’s about understanding how colour interacts with architecture, light, and the rhythms of daily life, and using that understanding to create something deeply personal. Every consultation is a chance to transform not only a room, but the way you feel in it. And whether you’re refreshing a single space or reimagining your entire home, the process is as enjoyable as the result.

To begin your own journey, simply step into your nearest Farrow & Ball showroom. Meet your local Colour Consultant and discover how e ortlessly your perfect palette can come together. The expertise is there, the inspiration is waiting, and your ideal scheme is just a conversation away.

MEET THE EXPERT

Nicky Miles FARROW & BALL SUNNINGDALE

Q What do you love about being a Colour Consultant?

A I love helping people create spaces they truly enjoy living in and where they feel comfortable and love the look of. Often clients know what they like, and I enjoy helping them pull it all together so their home flows beautifully. I partner with them to help them be a little more adventurous with colour, showing how it changes with light and time of day. Every room has its own mood and I use a 60/30/10 balance of dominant, secondary, and accent colours to create harmony.

Q Do you have a favourite colour in the home, and if so, why?

A Lately, I’ve been loving the shift from cool greys to warmer tones. Some current favourites are Scallop No.311, Treron No.292, Reduced Green No.313 and Dimity No.2008, which work beautifully in many rooms. I’m also enjoying the increased use of floral wallpapers on bedroom ceilings – an interesting change from plain white.

Q What three top tips would you o er someone coming to you for advice on colour in the home?

1: Think about light – natural and artificial light both a ect how a colour appears throughout the day.

2: Get the balance right – in the same way as you layer fabrics, you want to make sure you layer your colours and balance them all in a cohesive scheme that’s tailored to create the mood you’ll want for that space.

3: Seek expert advice – an expert eye can make all the di erence. Colour is just one part of the equation – shapes, heights, and angles all influence how a room feels. The right colours can open it up, make it cosy, hide features you’d rather downplay, or highlight the ones you love.

Book an appointment with Nicky in store at 5 Broomhall Buildings, Sunningdale, Ascot SL5 0DU, or visit farrow-ball.com

Most Home Interior Requirements Under One Roof

Fireplaces | Worktops | Fitted bedrooms | Fitted home offices

Flooring | Bespoke soft furnishing | Interior design | Media Walls

hero

A marriage of artistry and everyday ritual – a look at Emma Kohlmann’s new collection for Hay

FOLK

American artist Emma Kohlmann, celebrated for her playful, fluid line work inspired by folk motifs and historical art, has debuted La Pittura, a wholly hand-painted ceramic tableware series for Danish design house Hay. Kohlmann, originally from New York City and now based in Massachusetts, brings a unique visual voice to domestic design, blending spontaneity with enduring craftsmanship.

AESTHETIC AND ARTISTIC VISION

The title La Pittura – Italian for “the painting” – reflects Emma’s intent to treat everyday objects as canvases. The collection includes plates, bowls, cups, trivets, jugs, vases, and serving platters –each adorned with her signature motifs: abstracted figures, symbolic forms, amorphous shapes, and a naïve yet poetic sensibility reminiscent of Renaissance apothecary jars, Tuscan earthenware, and childhood museum visits. The pieces are not only functional but are “expressive fields”, as Emma and Hay’s co-founder, Mette Hay, highlight, framing domestic rituals as intimate artistic exchanges.

HAND-MADE QUALITIES AND IMPERFECTIONS

Produced in Sri Lanka and hand-painted from start to finish, each item in the LaPittura collection bears subtle irregularities: tonal shifts, line variances, and slight asymmetry. These imperfections are not flaws, but rather the heart of the collection, “there’s nothing perfect about it – because it’s made by people,” Emma notes. This deliberate embrace of the handcrafted celebrates the humanity of making, standing in contrast to uniform, mass-produced wares.

FUNCTIONALITY MEETS ART

Hay’s approach with LaPittura exemplifies a long-standing commitment to merging utility with art. The collection occupies a liminal space – neither solely decorative nor fine art – but functional design intended to

“SERVING FOOD IN A BEAUTIFUL BOWL OR ON A HAND-PAINTED PLATE — IT JUST CHANGES THE EXPERIENCE”

be used daily: from kitchen prep to dining table, shelf display, or as vessels in their own right. Mette Hay puts it plainly: “Serving food in a beautiful bowl or on a hand-painted plate – it just changes the experience.”

DEBUT AT 3 DAYS

OFDESIGN

LaPittura launched as an exclusive preview at HAY’s flagship Copenhagen showroom during the city’s prestigious 3 Days ofDesign festival earlier this year. A curated selection of 19 ceramic pieces was available in-store ahead of the global launch scheduled for mid-August. HAY paired the debut with a pop-up restaurant on-site, serving casual Italian fare on the newly unveiled hand-painted ceramics – blending design immersion with real-world use.

CULTURAL DIALOGUE AND DESIGN IMPACT

This collaboration continues Hay’s tradition of working with artists to inject fresh perspectives into everyday objects. For Emma, it’s a landmark project – three years in the making – transforming studio artworks into shared objects of daily life. For Hay, it reinforces their ethos of enriching routines through design that feels personal, intimate, and human. EmmaKohlmann’s LaPittura for Hay succeeds in reimagining the ceramic tableware tradition through a contemporary, hand-painted lens. Each piece acts as a storyteller – rooted in culture and memory, yet boldly alive in the present. The result is a collection that is as functional as it is poetic, a testament to the synergy between art and everyday life – fittingly unveiled during Copenhagen’s most creative design week. hay.com

WALLSAUCE

Art Deco Wallpaper

Mural Deco Feathers, from £33 wallsauce.com

FRENCH

BEDROOM CO

Peacock Art Deco Fire Screen, £225 frenchbedroom.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

ROCKETT ST GEORGE

Deco Nymph Olive Wallpaper, £125 rockettstgeorge.co.uk

BOBBI BECK

Art Deco Diamond Pattern Wallpaper, £69 bobbibeck.com

JULIETTE'S INTERIORS

Art Deco Inspired Luxury Side Table, £241 juliettesinteriors.co.uk

DECO

CANDLEMELEON

Miami Art Deco Candle, £30 candlemeleon.com

HYPERION TILES

Art Deco Loop Blush Tile, £87.36 hyperiontiles.co.uk

DIVINE SAVAGES

Deco Martini Copper Patina Wallpaper, £159 divinesavages.com

By PENDLE HARTE

MELODY MAISON

Art Deco Arch Fan Wall Mirror, £77.95 melodymaison.co.uk

CLICK STYLE

Sheba Embossed Ceramic Table Lamp, £57.50 clickstyle.co.uk

THE BOUTIQUE HANDLE CO

Art Deco Lined Style Door Numbers, £12 boutiquehandleco.com

UP level

How you can improve your sleep comfort with Jensen Beds

“There is every chance your bed will become your new favourite place”

Jensen Beds’ adjustable models are an increasingly popular choice – and it’s easy to understand why. As a Norwegian brand renowned for craftsmanship and exceptional sleep comfort, Jensen Beds brings quality to every detail. Once you’ve experienced the freedom and flexibility that adjustability provides, there’s every chance your bed will become your new favourite place – even in the middle of the day.

INDIVIDUAL – TOGETHER

With a double adjustable bed, you can adjust your head and foot ends separately from your partner’s. Or you can connect both sides and adjust them synchronized with one remote control. The Jensen SplitTopper is a mattress topper developed especially for their double adjustable beds. From the middle down to the foot end it o ers a seamless surface with no gap between you and

your partner. The head end is split in two, allowing for full individual adjustment.

ADJUSTABLE FUNCTIONALITY, CONTINENTAL LOOKS

Despite the advanced technology, Jensen’s adjustable beds still look a lot like a regular bed. The mechanical parts are hidden in the bed frame, giving the appearance of a continental bed when not adjusted.

PUT YOUR BEDROOM TO USE

Whether you appreciate breakfast in bed, watching TV on a lazy morning or reading a book before sleep – all these are situations where the adjustable bed is brilliant. Instead of piling up pillows to form a back support that needs tweaking every other minute, a simple push of a button (either on the remote control or your smartphone) will adjust the bed to your liking. And when you find a perfect setting, save it with the memory function to easily return to it later.

WHY CHOOSE JENSEN?

For over 75 years, their purpose has been to help people improve their sleep. The team developing their beds has expertise in physiology and sleep science. Innovations such as Jensen Exact Comfort Adjustment, their unique zone system and the Aloy® spring system all contribute to better sleep comfort, limiting the need to wake and change your sleeping position. Because the less disruption you experience during sleep, the more rested you will be in the morning. Jensen began in 1947, at a time when resources were scarce and ingenuity was key. Their very first mattresses were

made using horsehair and cotton wool – natural materials that were readily available. While much has evolved since those early days, one thing has remained unchanged: their dedication to delivering outstanding sleep comfort. They remain firmly rooted in their heritage, with every Jensen bed still crafted in the picturesque town of Svelvik, in Norway’s Vestfold county.

“Made in Norway” is more than a label – it’s a promise of exceptional quality, precision, and care.

25-YEAR WARRANTY

With a strong heritage and carefully selected quality materials, Jensen creates beds that are built to last – in both comfort and durability. Every Jensen bed comes with a 5-year full warranty and a 25-year warranty on the frame and springs. At Jensen, they understand that choosing a bed is a personal investment. Whether you’re replacing an existing model or selecting your first, their team o ers discreet, expert guidance every step of the way. If you’re based in the UK and considering a Jensen bed, they invite you to contact them or visit their showroom at the Chelsea Harbour Design Centre for a personalised consultation.

Visit Jensen during Focus 25 from 15th September until 16th October, special terms in the period with 15% o on all beds. For more information call 020 3914 1262 or email jensenbeds. chelseaharbour@hildinganders.com

Textured & metallic FINISHES

The sensory evolution of steel windows

In a home, it’s often the quietest details that speak loudest. A curve in a cornice, the ripple of natural light on a wall or the pleasing weight of a door that closes just so. For residents all across Hertfordshire, where taste tends to favour understatement over show, design is as much about feel as it is about form.

It’s in this spirit that Crittall Windows’ latest evolution in steel windows and doors arrives. Known for its iconic slim profiles and architectural precision, the heritage manufacturer famous for its jet black frames now o ers an expanded range of finishes that bring texture, tone and tactility to the fore. These new powder-coated collections include ultra-matte colours, natural metallics and shimmering mineral tones that transform steel from structural element into sensory experience.

Bronze, brass, iron and nickel finishes o er a richness and depth that interact with light in quietly compelling ways. Whether reflecting the warmth of a south-facing garden or bringing definition to a softly lit

hallway, these finishes catch the eye without clamouring for it. For interiors where natural daylight is cherished, the interplay of gloss, grain and gleam adds a subtle sense of movement and a quiet dynamism.

The ultra-matte range, by contrast, o ers a grounded, chalky finish that’s beautifully suited to plaster walls, timber floors and period detailing. The e ect is soft, architectural and timeless – a considered alternative to the more expected satin black.

Crucially, every finish is engineered to endure. Delivered in partnership with AkzoNobel, the coatings are superdurable, weather-resistant and require minimal maintenance. So while they elevate the aesthetic, they also deliver the practicality demanded by homes exposed to Hertfordshire’s seasons.

From converted studios to red-brick townhouses, these finishes o er something quietly new: the chance to choose steel frames not just by colour or profile, but by atmosphere. It’s a small shift in thinking –and a significant step forward in design.

These finishes also resonate with the layered aesthetic so often found in Hertfordshire homes, where period detailing meets contemporary restraint. In such settings, a textured steel frame can act as a subtle bridge between old and new – picking up the gleam of a marble worktop one moment, echoing the patina of aged brass the next. It’s this quiet adaptability that makes the new collection so compelling: not simply decorative, but responsive, allowing light, material and space to interact in a way that feels both natural and intentional.

To explore the full range, visit crittall-windows.co.uk

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Beautiful Bathrooms, BUILT TO LAST

How Alternative Bathrooms can help you create a luxurious escape

When it comes to home improvements, few spaces o er the same daily return on investment as a welldesigned, high-quality bathroom. More than just a functional room, a beautiful bathroom adds comfort, luxury, and value to a property – and that’s where Alternative Bathrooms comes in.

With four London showrooms, in Ealing, Fulham, Battersea, and Queens Park, Alternative Bathrooms has been helping homeowners, developers and design professionals create outstanding bathroom spaces for over 15 years. Their experienced team knows what works, what lasts, and what’s truly worth investing in.

Unlike budget products that often end up costing more in the long run, the premium bathroom brands available at Alternative Bathrooms come with long warranties, dependable aftercare, and easy access to replacement parts. Many people discover too late that cheaper fittings can’t be repaired or sourced again. As the saying goes: buy cheap, buy twice.

Alternative Bathrooms o ers a carefully chosen range of products from leading European and UK manufacturers. That means customers benefit from excellent design, durable materials, and fixtures that are made to perform day after day – not just look good for now.

To help bring each project to life, the company also provides a professional 3D bathroom design service. This gives customers the chance to see exactly how their new bathroom will look and work before installation begins – so there are no

surprises. It’s a practical and reassuring way to fine-tune layouts, choose finishes, and make decisions with confidence.

The team at Alternative Bathrooms are with you every step of the way, from helping you choose the right products to o ering design advice and practical support throughout your project. Their depth of experience means customers get expert guidance, honest answers, and a smooth, stress-free process.

In today’s world, it makes sense to do things properly the first time. A bathroom built with quality products, supported by expert design and advice, doesn’t just improve your day-to-day life – it can also add real value to your home.

To get started, find your nearest Alternative Bathrooms showroom at alternativebathrooms.com or call 020 3375 9000 to speak to the team today

Lancing College is a co-educational boarding and day school for 13-18 year olds in West Sussex. Known for traditional values and outstanding pastoral care, it was praised as a ‘Significant Strength’ in their recent ISI report. Children benefit from an inclusive community and a broad spectrum of opportunities. They are encouraged to discover their own talents and reach their potential. lancingcollege.co.uk

A LEVELS? ib diploma or

Should you choose A levels or the IB Diploma?

Amelia Buckworth at Quintessentially Education clears up 10 common myths and misunderstandings

1. IB DIPLOMA IS HARDER

This is a pervasive myth, particularly in the UK. Certainly, the IBDP has a wider range of subjects to cover than the typical three or four within A levels – one of the reasons it has earned the reputation of being challenging. Both A levels and the IBDP are academically rigorous and demanding. So, the question should be which option best suits me? While some students prefer the breadth of the IBDP, others enjoy the depth and focus of A levels. This makes it important to consider the best fit for you when choosing between the two.

2. A LEVELS NARROW LEARNING OPTIONS

This is a common charge. By choosing only three or four subjects, students are forced to decide their academic direction too early. It’s true A levels are extremely focused, but the core skills learnt are transferable to a broad range of university subjects and career pathways. A focus on specific subjects in great depth helps students who might feel overwhelmed with a broader subject load and can be useful for candidates considering specific subject areas (medicine, veterinary science, engineering, computer science, for instance).

Many schools o ering A levels also o er the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). This large-scale independent project on a subject chosen by the student increases independent study skills and breadth of learning.

3. THE IB IS TOO GENERALIST

One of the great strengths of the IBDP is also considered by some to be a weakness. They argue that English Literature texts, for example, can only be covered superficially because there are so many, so students don’t develop the essay writing skills required by A level. Certainly, IBDP rewards pupils who are good at everything, so if you excel at maths, say, but are weaker at English and foreign languages, A levels might be your better pathway to top results.

4. IB IS

BETTER PREPARATION FOR UNIVERSITY

It is often said that the IBDP o ers a more rounded approach to preuniversity education. The breadth of subjects and the additional components within the IBDP foster skills such as critical thinking and interdisciplinary connections. Some say this sets students up better for the independent study that undergraduate courses require. On the other hand, A levels also require critical thinking and are excellent at preparing for university because students typically have fewer timetabled hours than their IBDP counterparts. They are therefore encouraged to become independent learners and to organise their own time.

5. BRITISH UNIVERSITIES PREFER A LEVELS

While it is true that A levels are the more traditional route to a UK university, the IBDP is a globally recognised qualification. Most British universities now recognise the IBDP as equal to A levels, as indicated by the fact entry requirements are listed on the main pages of their websites (other curricula are found under the ‘international student’ sections). The key element in any university application is a requirement to meet minimum criteria for a particular course of study – both IBDP and A-level pathways determine this.

6. INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITIES PREFER THE IBDP

The IBDP is certainly recognised the world over, and its breadth means it sits well with applicants considering a Liberal Arts degree in the US, for example. But A levels are well known and respected, too. In many instances, you have an equal chance of entering an international university.

7. THE IB IS JUST FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS AT INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS

This is a complete myth. The last 20 years or so has seen many of the UK’s top schools adopt the IBDP, often alongside A levels.

8. YOU CAN’T DO IB MYP AND THEN SWITCH TO A LEVELS

The IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) for students aged 11-16 is much less common than the Diploma in the UK (currently taught in 35 predominantly international schools). Rather like the Diploma, it focuses on critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning. In the fi nal year of the MYP (Year 11) each student develops a personal project which is externally validated. Historically there were no written exams, as such. MYP assessment focused on tasks created and marked by teachers. The MYP eAssessment

was launched in 2016 and is an optional external assessment giving the opportunity to earn an internationally recognised certificate. This can help smooth the transition for students who choose to move from the MYP programme to A levels.

9. IB TEACHES YOU HOW TO THINK, A LEVELS ARE ABOUT REGURGITATING FACTS

This is perhaps the greatest misconception of all. Both A levels and the IBDP require intense independent study and enable students to apply to the world’s best universities including Oxbridge in the UK and Ivy League colleges in the US. Because A level students focus on subjects they are passionate about, they are motivated to think critically.

10. IT’S BETTER TO CHOOSE A SIXTH FORM OFFERING A LEVEL AND IDBP

It might be tempting to keep options open and look for a sixth form that o ers both IBDP and A levels – many of the top independent schools do. Running both IBDP and A level programmes is challenging to timetable and expensive for schools. For students, it may make better sense to decide which pathway to take and then choose a sixth form that excels at either IBDP or A levels.

SPORTING CHANCES

The Director of Sport at St George’s Ascot on its enhanced swimming programme and increased provision in traditionally ‘male’ games

By SOPHIE APPLEBY

wimming is one of the most demanding sports a young person can pursue.

SIt requires precision, power, time management and grit. That’s why, this year, we’ve taken our

swimming provision to the next level.

while ensuring they continue to thrive in the classroom. This September we

Our Performance Swimming Programme o ers talented young swimmers a highperformance coaching environment while ensuring they continue to thrive in the classroom. This September we will welcome the first group of girls onto our elite swim programme with training sessions integrated into the school day and throughout the week, enabling the girls to strike a good balance between academic focus and athletic ambition

Head Swimming Programme. Nicky has extensive

I am excited to welcome Nicky Matthews as Head Coach for our Performance Swimming Programme. Nicky has extensive experience developing young swimmers to a national level – her approach is purposeful

and professional, but also incredibly supportive. She coaches with drive, challenging and championing young athletes to take their next steps with confidence. In parallel with our swimming development, we’ve also expanded opportunities in cricket and football, giving girls a chance to explore sports they may not have previously considered their own. Cricket is now a key part of our summer and winter calendars, following the installation of our indoor hardball cricket nets last May. We are supported by a coaching partnership with Royal Ascot Cricket Club. Our girls are thriving in matches, developing technical skills, tactical understanding and loving the camaraderie

that cricket brings. We have embedded specialist coaching, competitive fixtures and a pathway for those who want to pursue the game seriously. The same is true for football, which has seen a sharp rise in interest and talent. With growing national visibility in the women’s game, it felt essential to give St George’s girls the chance to be part of that movement. While our Performance Swimming Programme, football and cricket may be the latest additions to feature in our rich and diverse sports programme, we are continually evolving our provision to ensure every girl finds her space to shine. From netball to tennis, dance to badminton, athletics and beyond, our

girls have the chance to enjoy, lead and inspire. A favourite part of my job is seeing a girl realise what she is capable of. Sometimes that moment happens in a fixture, sometimes it’s in a training session, sometimes it’s just the quiet pride of knowing she kept going when something felt hard. These are the moments that build character, not just athleticism.

I have experienced time and time again that when girls are given the opportunity to push themselves, to lead, to fail safely and try again, they discover they are capable of more than they ever imagined and that is what sport in schools should be about. I want every St George’s girl to leave us knowing they can stay in sport in whatever form they choose, whether that’s through competition, coaching, volunteering or simply personal enjoyment. I am so proud to be part of a school that is investing in the future and doing so with purpose.

stgeorges-ascot.org.uk

SOPHIE APPLEBY

Why Heatherton?

Is it for our… character development? Event booking now live

Co-Ed Nursery x Girls Prep

MEET THE

HEAD

Luke Walters, Head of Leighton Park, on joining the Berkshire school and what he is looking forward to most this new school year

Q Can you give us a snapshot of your career in education to date?

A From the outset, I was drawn to schools that o ered a holistic education, much like my own. I was fortunate to be able to participate in everything my own international school o ered and believe that the challenges that students encounter beyond the classroom are as important as those they experience in formal lessons.

After training and early career years in the maintained sector, my independent school experience began as an English teacher at Marlborough College.

In the years that followed I took up leadership posts, firstly in the academic sphere as Head of English at Reading Blue Coat before finding a pastoral path as a boys’ housemaster at Marlborough College Malaysia and subsequently Ardingly College, where I was promoted to senior leadership.

My most recent post was as Deputy Head at Christ’s Hospital School. All the

schools share similar values and, whilst academic, also pride themselves on the quality of the human relationships that they foster. In my last role, I gained most satisfaction from seeing people, students and sta , fulfil their potential; it is the most rewarding aspect of education.

Q What attracted you to taking over the Headship at Leighton Park School?

A On my first visit to Leighton Park I felt a calm sense of purpose, which I found enormously appealing. It is a school where Quaker values subtly shape every interaction and excellent teaching is combined with an award-winning approach to personal development. The school’s forward-thinking approach, academic achievements and its recently completed Sixth Form Study Centre convinced me that this was a community I wanted to join. It felt like a place where I could build on the school’s outstanding achievements and help young people “live adventurously,” as the Quakers would say.

LUKE WALTERS

Q What kind of Head will you be?

A I would like to see myself as a collaborative leader. My priority will be to listen to as many of the members of the community as possible, and to begin to understand more fully what it is that makes Leighton Park special. I hope to be visible around the Park, whether in lessons, watching a concert or on the sidelines at sports matches. I want to do all I can to maintain the school’s unique nurturing environment for students and sta that has already produced such success.

Q What are you looking forward to most come September?

A What excites me most about September is getting to know the students and sta at the school. It’s also one of the pleasures of being an educator that each new academic year brings with it a special energy. I enjoy seeing the Year 7s embarking on the first steps of their secondary education and the Year 13s, who can just about see university and life beyond school. The Sixth Form will

be particularly interesting to watch this year, as they settle into our new study centre.

I’m also interested to see the CAS (Creativity, Action and Service) programme first-hand. I have heard so much about it, and it has already won national awards for developing practical skills and encouraging our students to become changemakers.

Q Do you already have any plans to implement anything new?

A Any plans I have will be shaped by what I hear and learn in my first months at the school. Leighton Park is thriving, so my focus will be on strengthening those facets that set it apart. This includes the quality of the human relationships at the school, which I see as a strength and a vital component in supporting students to excel. These relationships are derived from its values-led approach, and Leighton Park is the only school in the UK to have had this recognised as a Significant Strength by the Independent Schools Inspectorate.

We are enhancing the school’s focus on ensuring that our students are preparing for their futures, whatever path they take. From critical thinking and creative problem-solving to leading with empathy and conviction, these skills will sit at the heart of young people’s successes beyond the school’s bounds. Whilst there will be changes in time, at its heart the school needs to continue to be confident about itself and continue to improve. It is a remarkable institution and I am looking forward to leading it into the future.

leightonpark.com

MEET THE HEAD

Pangbourne College’s Oliver Knight on his first year in the role, results day and what’s to come

Q What have been some of the highlights of the school year that has just finished?

A The last academic year was my first year in post at Pangbourne College and there were numerous highlights to the year. One of the most memorable experiences was Founders’ Day at the end of the year where we celebrated the successes of all our students at prizegiving and wished our Upper Sixth a fond farewell as they took part in the ceremonial Beat Retreat parade. It is a truly impressive and striking spectacle steeped in history and you feel honoured to experience it.

Q How do you feel when results days come around?

A It is always a nervous time for sta , students and parents given the high-stakes nature of the exams. The most important thing is to support all our students to ensure they have the best possible next steps for life after Pangbourne College. We have made a lot of changes this year to the academic processes and rigour for students across all year groups so we are looking forward to seeing the improvements of these developments. We secured our best ever results for the Upper Sixth this year and so are looking forward to building on this in the years ahead.

Q What are you looking forward to most when the new school year comes around?

A I am looking forward to welcoming our brilliant new members of sta and helping the new batch of students settle in and find their feet. We have already looked at the timetable to make the school day slightly more flexible for busy parents and integrated adventure and sport provision fully within the school day to ensure all students are getting access to the best coaches as well as the best facilities.

Personally I am also really excited about having our new adventure learning facilities up and running and seeing the students challenge themselves outside the classroom.

Q Are there any big changes ahead at Pangbourne?

A It is a really exciting year ahead as we will be opening our newly renovated Day Divisions (Houses) and a brand new Sixth Form Centre at the start of September.

As part of our Campus 2030 plans, one of the next projects will be the boat club building work which we have received planning permission for. The Campus 2030 project is designed to enhance the academic and pastoral spaces in the College to ensure we continue to provide the very best experience for our students. We have a lot planned and the future looks very exciting for the College.

pangbourne.com

OLIVER KNIGHT

THE BEST START

A primary school experience laying the foundations for an exciting education

The Queen Ethelburga’s educational journey begins in Chapter House, a small school with a family atmosphere for children aged three months to 10 years. Safely nestled within the wider school estate which caters for students up to Year 13, Chapter House provides a home from home for children to begin their own learning journey through imaginative play and inspiring lessons, cared for by an expert team. In Chapter House, discoveries are not limited to the classroom. Playtimes and evenings are a time for fun with friends and the chance to learn new skills through enrichment activities like first aid, mindfulness, sign & sing, and newspaper club. Class teachers get to know each child in their care, tailoring their teaching to support and benefit every individual’s learning style.

At the school, all primary students study Spanish and Mandarin each week under the tutelage of native speakers from Year 1 and have regular swimming lessons in the on-site 25m swimming pool. They partake in cooking and baking classes in a specialist food technology room and have forest school lessons in a dedicated woodland area onsite, which are taught by a qualified forest school teacher. In addition, all pupils follow a sports programme under specialist coaches that focuses on multi-skills to keep every individual motivated and engaged in physical activity and sports. Each year they compete in the annual Sports Day in groups known as houses which creates a real sense of belonging and camaraderie, no matter their ability, and older students are involved in regular fixtures and workshops that develop their skills further. Every new starter is assessed so that an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) can be created for them, tailoring the support

they receive. This can mean helping bring them up through extra support sessions, individual tuition by learning support specialists or di erentiated learning plans. ILPs also identify gifted areas and help them to push children through accelerated learning clubs or talent-focused enrichment clubs.

Above all, Chapter House is a family feel school that keeps its class sizes small, so that children have up to 50% more teacher contact time than larger classes. They also pride themselves on parent communication through parent meetings and reports every half term, rather than the standard twice a year, and daily EYFS updates on Tapestry. Thinking of an independent education for your child? Go along to their Open Day on 27th September and find out more about their personalised approach to your child’s education.

Visit qe.org to book your place

A culture of co-education

Cranford School prides itself as a fully co-educational through-school where boys and girls thrive

R“A Cranford education o ers much more than simple academic success”

egarded as one of the UK’s leading small independent co-educational schools, Cranford is renowned for its strong focus on pastoral care and consistently attaining high academic results while building supportive relationships between pupils and sta . As an already established, fully co-educational school, pupils thrive where the attention to each pupil and their teaching and learning needs is second to none. With unbeatable pastoral care and superb facilities for sport and the performing arts, Cranford’s pupils enjoy educational excellence. Regarded as one of Oxfordshire’s best-kept little secrets, the school, rated “Excellent” in all areas, is a warmly welcoming, independent day school for boys and girls aged 3 to 18.

“Cranford enjoys a strong reputation for both teaching excellence and for

maintaining a focus on each individual pupil’s progress that ensures everyone achieves their full potential,” says Headmaster Dr James Raymond. “An atmosphere of academic endeavour is at the heart of school life, but a Cranford education o ers much more than simple academic success. Ensuring each child feels safe and supported is key to building their growing confidence in their own abilities. Visitors to our school comment on the happy atmosphere, while our students describe Cranford as a family community where everyone knows and supports each other. We aim to ignite every individual’s curiosity and interest.”

The excellent quality of education on o er for each and every Cranford pupil is a hallmark, where academic pursuits are supported by an opportunity-rich and extensive co-curricular programme. Beyond the classroom, these opportunities o er pupils ways to expand learning, build confidence and explore their sense of curiosity. With over a hundred di erent engaging, fun and inclusive clubs on o er, the variety allows each pupil from Reception through to Sixth Form to choose their own mix of interests, whether that be cooking up a storm in Food Tech or picking up a Lacrosse stick for the first time.

Discover what a Cranford education can o er your child: join the Whole School Open Morning on Saturday 11th October, from 9.30am-12pm.

cranfordschool.co.uk

Opening DOORS

Rob Grosse, Headteacher of Herries

School, on o ering a world of opportunity to their pupils

Hour core Herries Values: Happiness, Enthusiasm, Respect, Resilience, Independence, Excellence, Sincerity.

We believe in nurturing the whole child, celebrating strong manners, personal responsibility, tolerance and respect. Our small class sizes are pivotal, enabling tailored teaching, increased individual attention and dedicated learning time. Consequently, our pupils confidently transition to a diverse range of destination schools fully equipped for the next stage of their educational journey.

erries, nestled in the charming Berkshire countryside, is a sought-after coeducational school for children aged 2 to 11. As a well established small school, we cherish our strong family atmosphere. In March 2025, the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) recognised our commitment to excellence through a strong report which noted Herries to be a family-focused community providing pupils with high academic standards, a varied curriculum within an inclusive, nurturing environment and rich extra-curricular opportunities. At Herries, we have developed a school where every pupil can truly flourish. Our children, dedicated sta and supportive parents work hand-in-hand, guided by

Our broad educational provision is designed to develop well-rounded individuals. Through character education and a wide-ranging curriculum, children have abundant opportunities to engage in public speaking, drama, music, art, sport, forest activities and a wealth of extra-curricular clubs such as golf, cookery, and fencing. Our commitment to sporting excellence was recognized in September 2024 when we were shortlisted for the ISA Award for Outstanding Sport Provision in a small school.

Our unique setting in Cookham Dean, the former home of Kenneth Grahame where the beloved The Wind in the Willows was penned, provides a rich and inspiring backdrop for learning. While deeply rooted in our local community, we also welcome pupils from around the globe, adding to our strong and inclusive community spirit.

herries.org.uk

Small School

Netflix drama Adolescence managed to avoid this. Instead, it appears to have set out to raise awareness of the issues facing young people today. While its storyline may not reflect every teenager’s experience, the drama was rooted in actual cases from the UK, lending authenticity and emotional weight.

MEDIA management

The Head of Digital Learning at Downe House on why an under-16 phone ban would help safeguard young people

Perhaps Australia has got it right? The country’s recent decision to ban phones for under 16s feels, increasingly, like the right move. For years as a teacher, I have championed the idea that we should be supporting young people in managing their social media use – the idea being to educate rather than restrict.

Although I still believe in the power of education to create change for the better, I have more recently veered towards accepting that that it may not be enough to protect our young people. The algorithms are simply too powerful. If adults struggle to resist the pull of endless phone scrolling, what chance do

teenagers have?In short, I believe that 16 and over is the right age to own a phone.

By this point, our young people have had the chance to discover passions beyond the screen. They have likely begun to develop deeper focus and a growing engagement with books, ideas and culture. And they will have developed awareness that social media is often a curated façade. Most importantly, they have started to form a stronger sense of self – in terms of who they are, what they value and how they want to spend their time. That level of confidence, I believe, is the foundation teenagers need before stepping into the hyper-connected world of social media.

The media often resorts to clickbait tactics to drive tra c – relying on portrayals of the very worst of society and social media.The

That said, in steering away from sensationalism, the show also largely overlooked the more positive aspects of social media. And we shouldn’t forget that they do exist. Social media can be a creative outlet – a place to connect with others, to learn, explore identity and find community. There is light in the digital world, too.

Ultimately, the media often gets the dangers right, but the balance wrong. What is needed is a layered portrayal – one that acknowledges both the risksandthe agency of young people, and which invites adults to engage. To its credit, Adolescence prompted parents to pay attention. What it hasn’t quite achieved is an acknowledgement around the positive potential of social media. However, an important conversation has begun.

What is needed now to realise that positive potential is a return to basic but essential tenets:education,wellbeing andcollaboration. Education, so that young people understand the digital world they are growing up in. Platforms could incorporate regular reflective prompts to help young people to manage social media pressure. Wellbeing, so that platforms are held accountable and focus ondesign for health, not just engagement, and with younger users’ perspective at the forefront. On that basis, developers should perhaps scrap the ‘like’ button, get rid of the endless scroll features, and remove algorithmic promotion of harmful content.

DOWNE HOUSE SCHOOL

Jane Basnett is Director of Digital Learning at Downe House School

An independent co-educational day and boarding school, inspiring students from 4 - 19 to exceed their expectations

Visit lvs.ascot.sch.uk for details about open days and private visits

LVS Ascot, London Road, Ascot, Berkshire SL5 8DR

Proud to be LVS Ascot

WHEEL POWER

Toni

Tasić, Head of Year 9 at London Park Schools

, on why cycling is proving to be a perfect enrichment activity for all involved

Back in the day, physical education was about 'building character' –usually some combination of running, endurance and inclement weather. Thankfully, these days, we have a much better understanding of how physical wellbeing can support general wellbeing. This is one of the reasons schools are considering more outdoor enrichment. London Park Schools has no shortage of exciting activities on its doorstep, but there is a shortage of readily available outdoor activities in the immediate vicinity. This contextual problem is a daily reality for our student population, many of whom are very active, but work hard to seek out opportunities for sport and recreation.

So, when I was asked to lead a weekly enrichment activity, a colleague and I had a brainwave. As keen cyclists ourselves, we headed straight to the Stratford VeloPark, originally built for the 2012 Olympics and still o ering world-class sporting provision.

Many parents and schools may see the red flags already – cycling is a high-risk

activity; the venue is ten miles away by public transport; the pool of keen and available students is relatively small. All of these issues required initial e ort to mitigate, but we knew the power of VeloPark, and we wanted to promote our sport, its social and personal aspects and its relevance to ecology and urbanism. Best of all for enrichment variety, the VeloPark o ers four di erent disciplines of cycling on safe, separated courses. There’s road, BMX and mountain biking plus, of course, track cycling on the indoor velodrome itself.

Between us, having (touch wood) completed almost three years of this activity without a serious issue, my colleague and I suggest the following for any school planning something new, fun and stimulating for an extra-curricular o ering.

First, choose an activity you personally enjoy and can enjoy personal development in, too (not something you’re already an expert in). Sharing the learning journey with students makes the activity all the more meaningful. It goes without saying you need all risk assessment paperwork and parental communications in place.

Make it self-sustaining and portable. If you can substitute sta at an hour’s notice, that’s the gold standard of a successful enrichment activity. Then publicise, advertise and promote. Get as much momentum behind it as possible, as enthusiasm will spread and you will all get to keep doing something you enjoy.

Refine and perfect the enrichment activity until it is providing just as much mental boost to you as your students. I’ll never forget a Tuesday afternoon last term when we were joined by a colleague new to VeloPark who simply said: ‘I can’t believe you get paid to do this.’ Not every day is in beautiful sunshine and there will be times in the winter when we’re knee deep in the mud on the mountain course. But the same smiles will be seen on the faces of the students – that’s the power of enrichment.

LONDON PARK SCHOOLS

Toni Tasic is Head of Year 9 at London Park Schools londonparkschools.com

TONY TASIĆ

Another brick in the WALL

Billund in Denmark is the home of Lego – and it’s an excellent family destination for fans of the brick

By PENDLE HARTE

At the gate at Heathrow we’re surrounded by small children. It’s the first week of the summer holidays and there’s only one reason for so many families to be flying to Billund, a small airport in the rural east of Denmark. In fact, it’s the same reason that the airport exists. Billund is the home of Lego, and the enduring appeal of the plastic brick has made this small town into an international destination. And today, the airport that was originally built to take Lego all over the world is now used to bring people to Lego. Not only is this the

gateway to Legoland, but also to the newer Lego House, a vast ‘experience centre’ dedicated entirely to the humble brick. Thanks to Denmark’s e cient public transport system, we’re in the centre of Billund just a few minutes after landing. Actually, we could almost have walked here. Expecting Billund to be entirely Lego-themed, we’re a bit surprised to find that there are no Lego street signs, theme cafes, shops or even billboards. Instead it’s a small, quiet place, quite short on restaurants and bars and dominated by a vast white monolith that turns out to be the Lego House. The Legoland theme park is on the outskirts of town, with its own hotel and eateries. Our hotel, The

Lodge, is comfortable and surprisingly lacking in any references to Lego, though we all know that everyone is here for the same reason.

Once inside the Lego House, it all begins to make sense. It’s a whole Lego world, brilliantly presented to appeal to all ages, obviously to people already obsessed with Lego, but also to people who aren’t. It is a vast and cleverly designed building, a series of staggered blocks that itself resembles a series of Lego bricks. Inside the light and airy space are 25 million lego pieces, most of them here to be played with, spread over di erent colour-coded zones in light-filled areas. It could so easily be hell for parents and overwhelming for children, but thanks to its ingenious design, it’s not.

You need a whole day to visit really, because there are so many things to do. We start in the basement, where there’s an exhibition about the history of Lego. It’s a good story, and advertising artwork from the 80s, 90s and 00s will be familiar to most of the parents visiting. In brief, Lego was founded in 1932 by Billund carpenter Ole Kirk Christiansen, and by 1980, it had become a global leader in the toy world.

On the first floor, there’s a spectacular model world in Lego. Elaborate miniature street scenes include cityscapes with moving trams, trains and buses; cranes and construction activity, fairgrounds with moving rides and flashing lights, ports with shipping containers loading and unloading, ski resorts with working cable cars, river cruises, helipads – and everywhere are busy little Lego people sitting in cafes, getting into cars, buying flowers, sunbathing on rooftops, putting out fires, driving ambulances and loitering on Lego pavements. The detail is mindblowing. Then there’s the stop-motion station, where we have 15 minutes to create a small film at individual stations, each with a selection of backdrops and various figures and costumes to work with. We choose the jungle, and are proud of our stop-motion version of I’m a Celebrity, complete with Ant and Dec, plus a few colourful characters arriving in style. Other activities include making lego fish and scanning them into a digital aquarium, constructing Lego flowers and adding them to a large display, and programming Lego robots. Everywhere are

LEGO HOUSE, AERIAL VIEW

small Lego vignettes: recreations of historical interiors, say, or model trees made of millions of bricks, or enormous Lego dinosaurs, and there are lots of pieces submitted from Lego fans all over the world. A vast Lego waterfall is built from almost two million bricks.

Various stations – known as Creative Labs –allow for free play with more bricks than anyone has ever had access to before, whether children want to contribute to communal creations or work on their own. And when hunger calls, there’s a Lego cafe, sta ed by Lego robots that deliver your food in large plastic bricks, and everyone takes home a small chef minifigure.

We leave with small paper bags containing freshly made Lego pieces that we’ve witnessed coming o a mini production line. “Lego is a language,” they say, and with its infinite potential for creativity and innovation, they’re not wrong. We spend the best part of the day at Lego House, and as we exit the lift on the roof into the sunshine, the building

“Lego is a language, they say, and with its infinite potential for creativity and innovation, they’re not wrong”

comes into its own. Brightly coloured zones on di erent levels are dedicated as a series of playspaces in what feels like a futuristic otherworld with striking architectural beauty. Set against a blue sky, it’s an impressive sight.

The next day we brave Legoland, which is a more relaxed version of the Windsor theme park of which we have varyingly positive recollections – but we very much enjoy the model village that includes the Taj Mahal, the Pyramids, the Ei el Tower and other global icons alongside miniature versions of innovative modern European housing developments, Copenhagen’s Royal Palace and a working model of Billund airport itself, among other replicas. The roller coasters are fun, the queues are minimal and the whole experience is great. No wonder we encountered all those families at Heathrow –they knew that Billund is the place to be.

legohouse.com

EDUCATION NEWS

The latest from schools across the county

Quite the Act

Twenty-five dedicated pupils from The Beacon School in Amersham took their talents to the international stage, performing the high-energy musical Sister Act Jr. at the world-renowned Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Over the past academic year, the boys have worked tirelessly to bring the production to life. Supported by the school’s Performing Arts department and a dedicated costume team of mums, the cast spent hours learning lines, rehearsing choreography, finetuning musical numbers, and developing their acting skills.

The cast debuted their production with two performances at The Spinney Theatre at The Beacon, where the local community shows were met with great enthusiasm from parents, pupils, staff, and friends of the school. This served as the perfect send-off before the group travelled to Edinburgh the following day.

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe, held every August, is celebrated as the largest arts festival in the world. The Fringe offered The Beacon Boys a unique opportunity to perform in front of a new audience performing over six consecutive days on an international stage. beaconschool.co.uk

Love for words

ABC to read is an award-winning Berkshire charity that has been helping children who struggle to read since 2004. They recruit, train, DBS-check and universally safeguard-train their volunteers, meaning all administration is handled by them – taking the pressure off busy schools. Their trained volunteers build confidence, spark a love of books, and develop essential literacy skills through engaging, one-toone sessions tailored to each child’s needs. They also deliver workshops to older students, equipping them to mentor younger peers, and to parents, giving them tools to support reading at home. They are looking for more Berkshire schools to benefit from their support and more volunteers to join them. Find out more at abctoread.org.uk, email info@abctoread.org.uk or call 01189 511336.

Final flourish

Berkhamsted is celebrating another remarkable cohort of students who have made the staff very proud. In their 2025 A level examinations, 55.3% of students achieved A*-A grades – a continued increase on 2024 achievements. Berkhamsted’s philosophy is built around the idea of “flourishing” – helping students fulfil their potential, find purpose, and build positive relationships. Part of this development through their Senior Schools and Sixth Form is helping each individual to develop a strong character and learning behaviours to underpin excellent outcomes. Whilst pupils’ academic achievements continue to excel, the school also

ensures opportunities for pupils continue beyond the classroom in preparation for life beyond Sixth. Leadership is a key part of this journey. At Berkhamsted, it’s not reserved for a select few – it’s developed in every student. berkhamsted.com

why everyone is talking about…

Puppy POWER

Hearing

Dogs

for Deaf People

is looking for volunteers in Buckingham

National deaf charity

Hearing Dogs for Deaf People is appealing for dog lovers in Buckingham to become volunteer puppy trainers, after expanding its life-changing puppy training programme into the town.

The charity, which trains dogs to alert deaf people to important and life-saving sounds such as smoke alarms, doorbells, and even baby monitors, relies on a nationwide network of dedicated volunteers to help train its puppies that will go on to transform a deaf person’s life. When fully trained, hearing dogs not only provide practical assistance to deaf people, but also o er lots of love and emotional support and help reduce isolation and loneliness, which many deaf people experience.

With demand for hearing dogs continuing to grow, the charity’s expansion into Buckingham is a vital step in ensuring more deaf people across the UK can benefit from the independence and confidence that a hearing dog brings.

Volunteering as a puppy trainer involves taking a puppy into your own home for 6 to 18 months at a time and getting it started on its training journey – from teaching basic cues like ‘sit’, ‘down’ and ‘wait’ to taking the puppy out and about to experience di erent sights, sounds, smells and environments. All volunteer puppy trainers are fully supported by a dedicated member of the Hearing Dogs dog training team, and all costs are covered by the charity – from food and toys, to bedding and vet costs.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to be bringing our puppy training programme to Buckingham,” says Lisa Meller, volunteering manager at Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. “Our volunteers are

at the heart of everything we do, and we’re now looking for kind, committed individuals or families in the local area who can o er a loving temporary home to one of our adorable puppies and help them begin their training journey.

“You’ll attend a fun weekly puppy training class, get to meet other people doing the same thing, have all the costs covered, and – most importantly – get to train a puppy that will go on to completely transform the life of a deaf person. No prior experience is needed – just a love of dogs, enough time every day to dedicate to the pup, and a willingness to learn about dog training.”

Karen Hardcastle, one of the charity’s existing volunteer puppy trainers, adds: “Becoming a volunteer trainer with

Hearing Dogs has changed my life. It’s just been the best thing I’ve ever done –to have a dog, to learn a skill, meet lots of people, get out and about, and make a di erence to someone else’s life.

“What I’ve achieved in training these dogs has really boosted my own confidence, too. I never thought in a million years I could train a dog to be an assistance dog. When I speak to prospective volunteers, the first thing they say is ‘I’d love to do it, but I couldn’t give the puppy up at the end’. Of course you miss the dog you’ve been training, but a lot of the emotion isn’t sadness, it’s happiness. To give this life-changing gift to someone you don’t know is an amazing feeling.”

hearingdogs.org.uk