Absolutely Essex Magazine September 2025 by ABSOLUTELY Magazines

CITY LIGHTS

Visiting Colchester's hottest spots • FOOD LEIGH ON SEA

The restaurant the Michelin Guide loves • WOOD YOU BELIEVE IT

The demand for timber in Essex homes

News and views from the county's best schools SPECIAL

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CULTURE

16 Agenda Why we are looking to the stars in September

18 Georgia Harrison MBE An exclusive on the Essex local's honour

22 Colchester Visiting the city's top cultural spots

FOOD & DRINK

36 Food Leigh on Sea Dining at the Michelin recognised restaurant

41 Drinks Top tipples to enjoy throughout September

FASHION & BEAUTY

44 The Shoot Watercolours from Penelope Chilvers

51 Fitness Notes Eight reasons to take up resistance training

INTERIORS

54 Real Homes Two Essex homes where timber takes centre stage

60 Emma Kohlmann On her new ceramics collection for Hay

65 Trend Why we are all craving art deco in the home

For editorial enquiries please email: mark@zest-media.com

For advertising enquiries please call 07861 994764 or email: claire@zest-media.com

zest.london

EDUCATION

70 Charity Its importance at The Beaulieu Park School

73 New Hall School Exploring their forward-thinking approach

77 Transitioning How to prepare your child for secondary school

83 Debate What to choose: the IB Diploma or A levels?

ON THE COVER

Georgia Harrison, photographed at 10 Downing Street

Elegant curves enhance your home, where natural balance reveals every note in breathtaking detail.

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LETTER Editor’s

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.

ABSOLUTELY’S September issue highlights Georgia Harrison On being honoured with a MBE (p18)

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 Essex schools in our special this month, looking at everything from charity in schools and transitioning to secondary, via a debate about the IB Diploma and A levels. There's a lot to learn!

New Hall School Exploring forward-thinking initiatives (p73)

Colchester

(p22)

MARK KEBBLE EDITOR

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

SWEET TREAT

Inspired by the iconic candy strings of our childhoods, Catherine Zoraida's Sweetie Opal bracelet is almost pretty enough to eat. catherinezoraida.com

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

EMMANUEL SONUBI

21 SEPTEMBER, STUDIO THEATRE CHELMSFORD

Following a sold-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe, an acclaimed European tour, and a triumphant New York Soho Theatre residency, Emmanuel Sonubi is back on the road with his latest show, Life After Near Death. Emmanuel’s latest show is a deeply personal yet hilariously sharp exploration of what happens when life throws its toughest challenges your way. chelmsfordtheatre.co.uk

The Agenda

Sunday

the Park

7 September

VALENTINES MANSION

Essex Art Club is delighted to be returning to Valentines Mansion in Ilford. Visitors can expect a very varied and exciting exhibition, as their members work in a wide variety of styles and media including watercolour oils, pastels and prints. They will be inviting visitors to vote for their favourite art work and award a prize to the winner. valentinesmansion.com

14 SEPTEMBER, CLIFFS PAVILION

British astronaut Tim Peake will blast o across the country this autumn bringing the awe and wonder of space travel past, present and future to audiences. Tim made history in 2015 when he became the ﬁrst British astronaut to visit the International Space Station (ISS), where he spent six months living and working in space, completing a spacewalk and even running a marathon.

trafalgartickets.com

9 September

MERCURY THEATRE

Immerse yourself in an evening of cosmic exploration, meticulously crafted to deliver a visually stunning and emotionally charged journey through the universe. This show weaves together distinctive storytelling, live demonstrations, breath-taking visuals and live music, allowing imaginations to soar and inspiring minds of all ages. mercurytheatre.co.uk

MUSIC

Michael Starring Ben

13 September

TOWNGATE THEATRE

Take a journey back in time to remember Michael Jackson – the man, the music and the magic. Michael Starring Ben is a hit theatre production starring the UK’s ultimate Michael Jackson tribute star, Ben Bowman. Not only does he look and sound like the King of Pop, but he’s honed his routine so carefully that audiences truly believe they are watching Michael Jackson himself. towngatetheatre.co.uk

COMEDY

Paul Zerdin

26 September

PALACE THEATRE

Featuring the remarkable talents of ventriloquist Paul Zerdin, his new show Jaw Drop brings to life a delightful cast of characters including Sam, the cocky teenager; Albert, the 96-year-old with a razor sharp wit; and the Baby, who hilariously believes the world revolves around him. Adding to the hilarity are Paul’s dim-witted American bodyguard Roger and an outrageous Urban Fox. trafalgartickets.com

A look at two events that took place at Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome

MThis Month’s Must See

Notting Hill

stunning setting to watch an absolute masterclass. Notting Hill is one of the all-time classic movies and what better excuse to get together with friends, family and loved ones than watching Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant under the stars with nibbles and some cheeky drinks, with the stunning Hedingham Castle as your background. Outdoor cinema at its ﬁnest. hedinghamcastle.co.uk

edieval knights mingled with 19th century sailors and World War One airmen at Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome on 19th-20th July as part of its multi-period Living History event. Braving the changeable weather, visitors to the popular museum enjoyed nearly a thousand years of British history. Across the grounds of the largest surviving World War One aerodrome in the world, expert living historians from around the country set up authentic camps, inviting visitors to interact with them and discover the secrets of the past.

Seeing one Spitﬁre in the air is rare – but seeing two diﬀerent ones in a single week? That’s exactly what happened at Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome in August. The accredited museum is proving its importance in the world of heritage aviation.

The first Spitfire appeared as part of the thrilling line-up for The Stow Maries Air Show on 23rd August. Built in 1943 in Castle Bromwich, the Mk9 Spitfire, LZ842, is the only one of its kind still flying that was originally painted in desert camouflage, and the only Spitfire flying in the world with a Rolls Royce Merlin 63 engine.

The second Spitﬁre to be seen was one of the six aircra operated by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and was due to take part in a ﬂy-over during the Back to the WW2 Farm event on 30th August at the time of print, adding an extra bit of wartime realism to this fascinating living history event.

stowmaries.org.uk

"It is surreal that something born from so much pain has led to so much positive change"

Ifull of VOICE

Georgia Harrison’s transformation from TV reality star to relentless campaigner has won legions of supporters and she has now been rightly honoured. Absolutely catches up with her about a year to remember

t’s fair to say that Georgia Harrison won’t be forgetting 2025 any time soon. As well as expecting her ﬁrst child later in the year, in June it was announced that she was appointed MBE for services to the prevention of violence against women and girls, and her work in online safety and cyber-crime awareness. “I was really shocked when I ﬁrst read the letter,” she says. “I still can’t quite believe I will have the honour of meeting a member of the royal family – it feels like everything has just moved forward so quickly in a positive direction since I won my court case. This really is going to be a full circle moment for me.”

It’s just over a decade ago that Georgia ﬁrst captured the public imagination appearing in The Only Way Is Essex in 2014, before rising to wider fame on Love Island (series3, 2017). But it was in December 2020 when her life was completely turned upside down. Georgia discovered that her ex-partner Stephen Bear had secretly recorded and uploaded a CCTV video of them having sex to his OnlyFans page –without her consent – and sold access.

The protracted legal battle concluded in early 2023, when Bear was found guilty of voyeurism and distributing private sexual content with intent to cause distress.

He received a 21-month sentence at

Chelmsford Crown Court and was placed on the sex o enders register for ten years. Georgia waived her anonymity to speak out, aiming to inspire other victims and reduce stigma. “At the time, I was just trying to survive each day and prove that my perpetrator was guilty,” she says on how far she has come. “I imagined what justice might feel like, but I never thought past that moment. I couldn’t have predicted the impact it would have – from media attention to inﬂuencing legislation, being taught in schools and universities, and now this recognition from royalty. It’s still surreal that something born from so much pain has led to so much positive change.”

Following her legal victory, Georgia launched a powerful campaign to change UK law. She successfully campaigned to remove the need to prove “intent to cause distress” in image-based abuse cases – a legal hurdle that previously made prosecutions di cult. That amendment was integrated into the Online Safety Act, passed by Parliament in October 2023. Georgia’s activism included delivering speeches at the Glamour Women of the Year Awards (where she won Activist of the Year in October 2023), attending Downing Street roundtables, and engaging with government o cials via the Women and Equalities Committee and the Labour Party conference.

In late2024 she partnered with Thames Valley Police to launch the “Consent Conversations” campaign aimed at improving consent understanding among people aged 18–24, and earlier collaborated with Superdrug’s “You before Yes” initiative targeting broader public education on consent. “I feel I’ve helped bring about real change. I’ve raised awareness around a crime that had long been misunderstood and helped remove some of the shame victims feel. Most importantly,” she adds, “I hope I’ve shown other survivors that they’re not alone, and that it is possible to take back your power, speak out, and be heard.”

How has she felt making contact with other survivors? “Really tough and really rewarding at the same time,” Georgia says. “It’s heartbreaking knowing how many people are still su ering, and it can feel helpless not being able to take their pain away. But connecting with others

has also been incredibly powerful – it reminds me why I do this. I always try to direct people to the Revenge Porn Helpline, a charity that supported me so much through my own experience. They do vital work and deserve every bit of funding and support they can get.

“We’ve made progress in getting the issue recognised, but the systems in place are still catching up,” she adds about

the work that still needs to be done.

“Victims still struggle to get justice. Education needs to be more widespread, and tech companies must take more responsibility. I’m committed to continuing the work, and I won’t stop until there’s lasting, structural change that properly protects victims and holds perpetrators accountable.” Georgia has even discussed entering politics: she has had “serious conversations” with Labour MPs and attended party events, considering standing for an Essex seat in Parliament.

The exact date when Georgia will receive her MBE is to be conﬁrmed, and there is also the small matter of impending motherhood. “It’s going really well,” she beams about her pregnancy.

“I feel incredibly lucky – it’s been a beautiful experience, and although of course there have been the usual ups and downs, overall I’ve been feeling strong and grounded. I’m excited to experience unconditional love in a whole new way. I’m looking forward to the little things – the cuddles, the milestones, the ﬁrsts.

I also feel a strong sense of purpose in raising a child who understands empathy, justice, and kindness.”

And will Georgia be taking some well deserved time o post-birth? “Yes, I plan to take some time to fully soak in the experience of becoming a mum and to be present in those early weeks. It’s important to me to have that bonding time. But I don’t think I’ll be stepping away for long – this work is such a part of who I am, and I’ll always ﬁnd a way to keep pushing forward, even as I navigate this new chapter.”

Follow Georgia’s journey @georgialouiseharrison

GEORGIA WITH MP JESS PHILLIPS

JOURNEY on a

Visit Essex take us behind the scenes of a new exhibition at Firstsite, before showing us what else Colchester has to o er

by CARL ALLEN

GEORGIA DYMOCK, FUZZY EMBRACE, 2024

COURTESY THE ARTIST AND GILLIAN JASON GALLERY

Firstsite in Colchester is renowned for its radical and unconventional building – a spectacular golden crescent that’s a work of art in its own right.

A golden-clad crescent in the heart of historic Colchester, Firstsite is an international centre for the contemporary visual arts, and also an exciting cultural, social and commercial space for Essex and the region.

A new exhibition, ‘VOYAGER 2000: Worldbeing & Wonder’, examines what the online world means to neurodivergents. It’s a powerful and emotional exhibition exploring how technology has shaped identity, creativity, and connection for neurodiverse and disabled communities. Featuring video, animation, sculpture, painting, photography, and fan art, the exhibition blends deeply personal stories with the global evolution of digital life. Absolutely spoke with exhibition curator George Morl to ﬁnd out more about the show.

Q The exhibition sounds intriguing, with the connections with autistic people and technology. Talk our readers through the show…

A The exhibition is told from childhood how we play with technology, to teenage years how we utilise tech as tools to connect with others online and express ourselves. The last room includes works selected by me, exploring how art and technology has been used to make friends, whilst reﬂecting on themes such as sexual health, and challenging ableism within online spaces. I want to

challenge people’s assumptions that disabled people are non-sexual, but how technology can be harnessed in very positive ways. It was important to me to show the process of the show as well, from my disabled and autistic perspective, so mind maps show how I think about ideas when writing is hard. I’ve also included an 'autism comfort blanket', which visually presents all the ideas in the show, but also subtly explores power dynamics within the autism community as well.

Q What inspired the show?

A This show was inspired and led by many conversations I’ve had with other autistics online and o ine about technology, and what art means to us. I’m interested in how we perform online. I’ve often had to use my identity to ﬁnd work; therefore, I question the culture of identity, as it can be reductive in the art world. I’m truly fascinated by power structures. During the various conversations and development of the show, it was essential to share a platform, hold an open call, prioritise the views of non-verbal/ limited verbal autistics who are often ignored in the autism community, and ensure that

around 50% of the artists were disabled, and that we were not only shown exclusively in a show with other disabled artists.

Q What do you expect people to learn from the show?

A Through the show, I want to challenge people’s assumptions about autism and disability. Even in 'presumed liberal spaces' I’ve experienced negative assumptions about myself, from being infantilised or mocked for factors relating to disabilities. I want to share positive conversations on how visual communication can raise wider conversations on consent for non-verbal perspectives, or how I’ve used apps and art to seek autonomy. There is a series of works in the show by autistic artist and social media inﬂuencer Sam Morris, who is from Braintree. As a writer and photographer, his photographs explore how he used dating apps to meet people. On a personal reﬂection, these spaces can be great for social scripts and meeting people with similar interests, as in physical space, we can fear rejection or bias from our communication di erences, stimming, or sensory needs. Elsewhere, there are works exploring ADHD, nonmonogamous relationships, and stimming acts. This chapter in the show is the story of relocating to Colchester, when having no friends here, through technology, I’ve been able to build a support network when 'safe spaces' failed to provide it. And I think that’s what’s great about technology, most of which has come from early inventions in Essex.

‘VOYAGER 2000: Worldbeing & Wonder?’ runs at Firstsite until 5th October. To ﬁnd out more visit ﬁrstsite.uk

'INSTAGRAM HELLO LOVERS' 2022 COURTESY SAM MORRIS

VOYAGER INSTALLATION PICTURE PHOTO BY RICHARD IVEY

FIRSTSITE, PHOTO BY RICHARD BRYANT

While in Colchester… While in Colchester…

EXPLORING MORE THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN THE CITY

Colchester has twice been made a city. Once just over 2,000 years ago by the Roman Emperor Claudius and more recently by the late Queen Elizabeth in her Platinum Jubilee.

Today the city o ers history around every corner. Colchester is also a shopper’s dream where big brand names mix with independents and shopping arcades in the vibrant streets.

Attractions

Colchester is a city steeped in history. The city’s Roman walls, which hug its core, are the most visible remains of the Roman capital of Britain – but there is more to Colchester than the Romans.

The impressive Colchester Castle now stands on what was a Roman temple. The temple was destroyed by Queen Boudica in AD60, and many hundreds of years later the Normans used the rubble to build the castle on the temple foundations.

Today Colchester Castle is a world class museum ﬁlled with Roman treasures and historical artefacts which highlight the city’s long history. The castle and the spectacular Castle Park are set at the end of the High Street and well worth a visit.

History enthusiasts will love the Hollytrees Museum. The Georgian house is ﬁlled with three centuries worth of toys, costumes, clocks, and domestic items.

The museum is a fascinating insight into family life over the centuries.

St Botolph’s Priory is also worth a visit. Built around 1100, it is one of the earliest Augustinian priories in Britain. Like Colchester Castle, it is constructed from reused Roman bricks. The priory is now a ruin, following cannon ﬁre during the English Civil War, but with its wall of impressive columns and arches, it is a magniﬁcent monument.

Colchester Zoological Society is one of the tourist gems of the city. Elephants, gira es, zebras, lions and rhinos bring the wow factor, while red pandas, penguins and meerkats deliver on cuteness. The zoo is home to 150 species and o ers a range of habitats from Chimpanzee

Lookout to Elephant Kingdom. There is also an underwater walkway, plus animal encounters, which make every visit unique. Keep it quiet but Colchester has a reputation for being the most cultural area of Essex. The city has many pieces of public art dotted around its centre, including statues of Jane and Ann Taylor, the sisters who wrote ‘Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.’ There are also several art galleries to explore, such as the already featured Firstsite. The Mercury Theatre is also at the heart of Colchester’s cultural life. With touring shows and Mercury in-house productions, the theatre o ers something for everyone. Buy tickets for plays, musicals, comedy, and live music; all can be found on the Mercury’s stage.

COLCHESTER CASTLE

COLCHESTER ZOO

Heartfelt Care

Every Step of the Way

While in Colchester…

Food & Drink

Colchester is a city set amidst a rural backdrop. Fresh produce abounds from locally sourced farm to fork meats, fruit and vegetables, plus ﬁsh and oysters.

Church Street Tavern is a must for foodies. Its menu is jam-packed with local, seasonal produce o ering modern, British style. The menu changes every six to eight weeks, with the head chef making choices based upon what is available from local suppliers. The ground floor bar and café serves co ee and light lunches. Upstairs in the sun filled restaurant you will find groovy artwork on the walls and a menu that meat lovers can indulge in.

For ﬁne dining, the Talbooth Restaurant on the banks of the River Stour in Dedham has an unparalleled location in the heart of ‘Constable Country’. The restaurant is housed in a magniﬁcent Tudor beamed building with food that is a delicious mix of classic and exciting. The three course set menu changes every week, but the legendary roast ribs of beef are always on the menu.

Nature lovers can get some fresh air by heading over to the nearby café at Abberton Reservoir Nature Discovery Park, which o ers an oasis of calm. What could be more perfect than enjoying a tea, co ee or juice, with snacks and ice cream while looking out over a nationally important wetland? Autumn is a wonderful time to watch migrating birds descend on the water.

See more – sleep over There is so much to see and do in Colchester, why not opt for a short break in the historic city? Centrally located, Greyfriars Hotel o ers 26 unique rooms and suites, all ﬁve-star quality with marble bathrooms or shower rooms. The styling is classic contemporary, with more than just a touch of luxury. Enjoy a stay with ﬁrst-class food from its restaurants, afternoon teas in the lounge and top cocktails from its bar.

Or try recently refurbished Delta Hotels by Marriott Colchester. The hotel provides generous sized rooms, comfortable and cosy ‘floating’ beds, high speed wi-fi and sitting areas. The hotel also benefits from a gym, swimming pool and steam room.

For a more rural setting opt for the Wivenhoe House Hotel. The house was immortalised in a painting by John Constable over 250 years ago and is now a four-star hotel with luxurious rooms overlooking stunning grounds, perfect for weddings. Wivenhoe House Hotel also serves delicious food from its brasserie, plus afternoon teas.

To ﬁnd out more about Colchester and its attractions head to visitessex.com

WIVENHOE HOUSE HOTEL COURTESY OF LISSIMORE PHOTOGRAPHY

TALBOOTH RESTAUERANT

Music from the

heart

Roman River Music has delighted Essex locals and beyond for 25 years. Absolutely goes behind the scenes to ﬁnd out how it all happened

In the spring of 2000 after a concert in Fingringhoe Church the previous autumn (in aid of Helena Hospice), Roman River Music (the name comes from the river that ﬂows through the village into the nearby Colne) was established to provide an annual festival that would combine classical music concerts in beautiful and atmospheric venues with opportunities and activities for local children. Initially just a weekend of activities based in and around Fingringhoe, it quickly expanded into Colchester and nearby villages, growing in size and reputation.

Juliet Jopling and her mother, Zelie, tell us how it all started and how it has evolved, before current producer Jessie Chapman explains what we can expect in this very special year.

Q What was the initial inspiration to launch Roman River Music and an annual festival?

JULIET: I wanted to share the energy and excitement of bringing classical musicians together, for chamber music concerts in venues steeped in history and atmosphere, with the audience “back home”. Twentyﬁve years ago I had just ﬁnished my

further studies on viola performance at the Mozarteum in Salzburg, and was hugely inspired by participating in several chamber music festivals throughout Europe. I wanted to share some of this with the audience where I grew up, and Mum and I started very humbly with a couple of concerts in St Andrew’s Church in Fingringhoe. Mum has always been a massive support to all of us Jopling children in our musical pursuits, and without her, Roman River would have remained a pipe dream. Not only did Mum give ﬁrst me, and then my brother Orlando, complete artistic freedom and support, but also her incredible attention to

“I wanted to share the excitement and energy of bringing classical musicians together”

detail and love of bringing people together was absolutely vital. I have also always been very inspired by working with children. I love to bring music to children who otherwise don’t have any access to it, and working with talented and motivated young musicians gives me huge energy. So it didn’t take Mum and I long before we started creative workshops for local children.

Q How di erent was the very ﬁrst festival 25 years ago?

JULIET: The festival has grown and developed, so for sure the ﬁrst festival was on a much more humble scale than

it is now. However, I remember how good Mum was at bringing together an audience in St Andrew’s Church even 25 years ago! The wonderful idea of having an “Artist-in-Residence” is something which Orlando introduced, among other great improvements and developments.

Q Size aside, what’s been the biggest change to the festival in 25 years?

ZELIE: Concerts and events have become much more varied, encompassing many di erent genres of music from chamber to folk, baroque, choral, jazz, Bach and ballet, and more…

Local artists became an important feature of the festival, and the Outreach Programme involving children and schools has developed and expanded.

Q And what challenges have you faced?

ZELIE: A major challenge with all arts organisations is ﬁnancial. Ticket money alone does not cover the cost of putting on a concert involving top class musicians. Grants support from funding bodies is crucial, as is support from friends and supporters.

Another challenge is resolving the perception of classical music as inaccessible.

ORLANDO JOPLING, PHOTO BY LUCY J TOMS

Q Are you looking to do anything di erent for the 25th anniversary year?

JESSIE: This year, one thing we are doing di erently is inviting all our fabulous past Artists-in-Residence rather than inviting a new one. All of them are local to the area and either have a strong local following or are recognised nationally. They include such names as John Doubleday, James Dodds, Julie Cuthbert, Luke Elwes, Jaqueline Taber, Anne-Marie Jacobs, and Glynn Thomas. Each concert will have small display area with information about their work, work for sale, and where possible the artist themself will be there too: for example, local artist Jennie Mace has generously supported Martin James Bartlett’s performance in Fordham on 25th September in memory of her sister, Sheila, and her work will be showcased at this concert; Fingringhoe gallery owner and painter, Jaqueline Taber, will be in her village church for the opening concert, and so on.

“We believe chamber music should be for everyone, so we keep ticket prices low”

Q What can you tell us about the line-up?

JESSIE: We are revisiting some of our most successful past events as well as bringing in new talent and experiences. The opening performance in St Andrew’s, Fingringhoe, is appropriately where the festival began with its ﬁrst concert. Shostavodka! returns on Tuesday 23rd September at St Lawrence’s Church in Rowhedge, echoing a past magical evening where a thunderstorm raged and vodka ﬂowed. This time, we’ll have locally made vodka from Essex Spirits Co – and, hopefully, similar magic although we cannot guarantee the same dramatic weather!

The Erda Ensemble are coming to Wivenhoe on Monday 21st September, fondly highlighted by our senior producer, Max Parﬁtt, who said their performance a couple of years ago was one of the most beautiful concerts he’s ever been to.

Pianist Martin James Bartlett has played for us more than once and is as much loved for his warmth and generosity of spirit as for his magniﬁcent playing.

Inviting the three stunning soloists to play Beethoven’s Triple Concerto and Mahler’s First Symphony along with the Wild Arts Ensemble for our big ﬁnal Saturday concert – Tom Poster, Elena Urioste and Laura van der Heijden – has been like asking family to join us! Tom curated and performed in four concerts of French chamber music and song for Roman River Festival in 2017 which were broadcast on BBC Radio 3. Tom and Elena’s relationship grew as a result of being part of Roman River, so we (modestly) like to think we played a small part in the subsequent formation

of their joyous and diverse Kaleidoscope Chamber Collective. Looking to the future, we have invited the innovative Sujata Bannerjee Dance Company to The Old Garrison Gymnasium (now a C3 Church) for an evening of Kathak dance including a taster of some East-West fusion. We also have winner of the BBC Young Musician award, brilliant solo percussionist Jordan Ashman, performing in Colchester Arts Centre – this promises to be a revelation for many of our audience who have never heard percussion played in this way before.

Q How do you make the concerts and what you do accessible for all, old and young?

JESSIE: We believe chamber music should be for everyone, so we keep ticket prices low – especially for younger people. Our concerts aren’t stu y; come in jeans and a t-shirt, bring the kids – even if they half listen and half read a book (like I did as a child). We also think about accessibility for our older audience. Young musicians are regularly invited to perform, often alongside professionals and, where possible, in collaboration with them. We’re ending with a joyful, family-friendly concert on Sunday 28th September hosted by children’s author James Campbell, with music for all ages, young performers, and a participatory soundscape led by the Wild Arts Ensemble –anyone can bring their instrument, however experienced (or not) they are, and join in. Expect chaos, laughter, and space for toddlers to roam!

Find out more at romanrivermusic.co.uk

ENGEGARDE

THE ERDA ENSEMBLE

JAMIE CATTO

PREMIER destination

Why

Malaysia o ers everything for that dream holiday

Malaysia is a captivating destination that o ers something for every kind of traveller.

Whether you’re after pristine beaches, vibrant cities, cultural experiences, or unique wildlife encounters, Malaysia promises an unforgettable holiday. One of Malaysia’s biggest draws is its rich cultural tapestry. The country’s blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous inﬂuences is reﬂected in its festivals, architecture, and food. You can explore ancient temples, colourful street markets, and colonial buildings, all while enjoying a fusion of cuisines. Whether it’s satay from a night market, a hearty Indian banana leaf meal, or a Chinese dim sum breakfast, every meal tells a story of Malaysia’s multicultural roots.

On the east coast, islands such as Perhentian and Redang o er powdery white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and world-class snorkelling and diving. Langkawi, located on the west coast, is perfect for those looking for a mix of luxury resorts and natural beauty, with waterfalls, mangroves, and duty-free shopping to explore. These beach escapes provide the ideal setting for relaxation, water sports, or simply soaking up the tropical sun. Malaysia’s cities are dynamic and full of life. Kuala Lumpur, the capital, is a bustling metropolis where skyscrapers sit alongside bustling street food stalls and historic mosques. George Town in Penang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, street art, and renowned street food. Meanwhile, Malacca o ers a glimpse into Malaysia’s colonial past in its architecture and cuisine.

A trip to Malaysia wouldn’t be complete without venturing to Malaysian Borneo, one of the world’s most biodiverse regions. In Sabah you’ll ﬁnd lush rainforests, exotic wildlife such as orangutans and proboscis monkeys and the majestic Mount Kinabalu. Explore caves in Mulu National Park, cruise along the Kinabatangan River or learn about the customs of indigenous communities. Thanks to excellent road links and extensive domestic ﬂight networks, a Malaysian holiday couldn’t be easier. Mixing and matching the country’s dynamic capital and prime gateway with one or more of its gorgeous beach resorts is quite possible holiday heaven.

Premier Holidays specialise in personalised travel experiences to some of the world’s most beautiful and exciting destinations. From handpicked hotels to memorable activities, they make it easy to plan smooth and enjoyable trips – which can all be booked through Abbotts Travel. If you’re looking for diversity, adventure, and beauty all in one destination, Malaysia should be at the top of your travel list.

For more information, contact Abbotts Travel on 020 8989 9445, email info@abbottstravel. com, or visit abbottstravel.com

KUALA LUMPUR

IBAN MEN FROM SARAWAK, MALAYSIA

MOUNT KINABULU

ELEVATED experience

Food Leigh on Sea is loved by foodies and the Michelin Guide alike - all the while being sustainable. Head Chef Liam Lingwood explains how they do it

“My cooking style could be described as ﬂavour and creativity led”

Food Leigh on Sea has become a standout destination in the Essex culinary scene, earning glowing praise from critics and diners alike. It has been recommended in the Michelin Guide as one of the few must-visit establishments in the county.

The restaurant’s reputation largely stems from its ethos: a seasonal, sustainable menu using locally sourced ingredients, many of them organic or foraged, guided by head chef Liam Lingwood alongside co - owner Jemma Cooper. This commitment to ingredient provenance and nutrition has resonated with diners seeking food that’s both healthy and inventive.

Its menu formats – “menu du jour” during weekdays and tasting menus on weekends, plus a much-talked-about sustainable Sunday roast with bottomless wine – are widely celebrated for their quality and value: two courses for £28, or three for £35, and roast lunch for £45 with optional freeﬂowing wine for £25 per person. Absolutely headed to the Essex coast to spend some time with Liam to discuss the approach to the menus and his own background in the industry.

Q When and where did your own culinary journey begin, and what chefs have helped shape who you are today?

A I started like many chefs do as a kitchen porter, working my way through the ranks. I’ve taken lots of inﬂuence from many kitchens I have worked in. Every chef I have ever worked with has taught me valuable lessons. I’d say I really developed my style of cooking working for John Lawson though. He gave me the space to showcase my creativity.

Q Is it possible to describe your cooking style today?

A I think my cooking style could be described as ﬂavour and creativity led. I believe I’m quite humble with my ingredients and let them do the work.

Q When did you ﬁrst start discussing the idea behind Food Leigh on Sea and when did you ﬁrst open your doors?

A Food Leigh on Sea was previously owned by John Lawson and I joined him very soon after it opened.

I’ve always loved the restaurant and when the opportunity came up to take over I leapt at it.

Q Why Leigh on Sea as the location?

A Leigh on Sea is an amazing place, for me one of the most special in Essex. It champions small independents and has a strong community feel. I absolutely love the place and the people.

Q How did you want to be di erent?

A We use only the best organic, local, seasonal produce. I believe we are the only Essex restaurant that hones in on this. I work closely with hand selected small suppliers that share our same ethos.

Q Is it a tougher way of working to ensure every dish has a minimal impact on the environment?

A It is tougher, yes, we have to really think about every ingredient we buy in and how we can use the whole product. We also have to source the most ethical products. It does take some extra work, but we believe the pros outweigh the cons.

Q How do you decide on the producers you work with?

A Usually I ﬁnd them and just reach out to them. I work closely with a lot of them so I know we share the same values. I also want to showcase what they are doing so our guests are aware of how amazing they all are. Pretty much all of our suppliers are from Essex and a lot of them are from Leigh on Sea.

LIAM LINGWOOD

“We can focus on making those three days the best they can be”

Q Why do you open solely Friday to Sunday?

A It allows us to really elevate the experience for those three days. We can solely focus on making them the best they can be. There’s lots of preparation that goes into the whole restaurant. Myself and my partner Jemma do most of it, just the two of us. Also the three days allows the sta to have a healthy work life balance and ensures they have lots to give when we are open.

Q How do the menus di er on each of the days?

A We o er a Menu du Jour at lunchtimes that is really great value. Friday and Saturday evenings are Tasting Menu only.

On a Sunday we do our Sunday roast, which we receive lots of praise for.

Q What kind of dishes really stand out for you right now and why?

A We have a beautiful lamb dish on at the moment which really sums us up. It uses the whole animal to ensure we don’t waste a thing. It really is everything we are about.

Q This interview will appear in our September issue, so any autumn ingredients you are looking forward to working with?

A Autumn has an abundance of fantastic produce. We always look forward to it as it is game season so you can expect pheasants, grouse and venison. Also lots of beautiful vegetables, squashes and root vegetables.

Q You receive plenty of plaudits for your cooking – how does that feel?

A It is a testament to everyone involved. Our fantastic suppliers, the team and our wonderful customers. We are always so grateful for everything.

Q Do you have any grand ambitions for Food Leigh on Sea, or are you happy with what you o er now?

A Not as of yet, we will just keep doing what we do and improving on what we already have.

foodleighonsea.com

CABINET DRINKS

What to drink this month

By NATALIA SUTA @_winerocks_ winerocks.co.uk

The art of

BLUSH

Ramón Bilbao’s much-loved rosé is entering its teenage years with a stylish glow-up. The 2024 vintage brings a new silkscreened bottle, a slightly deeper pink hue, and the same refreshing blend of Garnacha and Viura. It’s citrusy, ﬂoral, and seriously photogenic. Bonus: you’ll ﬁnd it on Co-op shelves for under a tenner. bodegasramonbilbao.com/en

COOL INTENTIONS

This September, Tillingham is adding a chill twist to their wine experience with a guided breathwork and ice bath retreat led by a certiﬁed Wim Hof Method instructor. It’s your chance to reset body and mind before a glass of fruity Col Fondo. A bit bonkers? Maybe. But deﬁnitely on brand. tillingham.com

SPOTLIGHT

Rowfant Vineyard

Simply brilliantly Bacchus

The Sustainable Sip

Italian wine, but not as you know it. When in Rome is bringing vino into the modern age with a line of sustainably packaged bottles and cans. The carbon footprint is lower, the ﬂavour’s still dialled up, and the format actually works. From zesty Pecorino to bold Montepulciano, this is smart, unfussy drinking with its priorities in the right place. wheninromewine.com

There’s a new name in English wine, and it comes with attitude. Rowfant Vineyard, tucked away in the West Sussex countryside, has just released its debut 2024 still Bacchus – a brilliant ﬁrst act bursting with elderﬂower, green apple, and grapefruit. It’s light, bright, and made for golden hours and garden parties.

New to the scene but far from tentative, Rowfant is on a mission to make sustainable, low-intervention wines with Bacchus at the heart. Their debut is still, and their ﬁzz is coming in 2026, proving that less really can be lush.

Presiding over the vines are Patsy and Patrick, two rescue donkeys with impeccable taste in terroir and an attitude that embodies the vineyard’s spirit: a bit stubborn, but in all the right ways. Like their four-legged mascots, the team at Rowfant is quietly determined, delightfully down-to-earth, and dead set on doing things properly. Call it mule-ish, call it meticulous –either way, you cannot argue with their beautifully made Bacchus.

therowfantvineyard.co.uk

Natalia Suta is a WSET-certified wine writer and educator with a knack for making wine accessible and fun. When she is not writing, she’s busy curating wine experiences and offering consultancy to help others discover the joy of wine. Follow Natalia on Instagram @_winerocks_

FASHION

The Shoot: Penelope Chilvers 44

By streamlining the process of sourcing a holiday wardrobe, Hansine offers versatile solutions that are both wearable and covetable. Each piece has been designed to flatter and to give the wearer a sense of freedom to roam, explore and relax in expressive, original and luxurious looks. hansineshop.co

RISE SUEDE SHOE BITTER CHOCOLATE, £219

ENZO SNAKE EFFECT LEATHER LOAFTER IN HONEY SNAKE, £219

BLANCA SUEDE BOOT BITTER CHOCOLATE, £369

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Join the club

TWELVE

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 children, indulgent spa, luxury salon, nutritionally focused brasserie and a holistic wellness clinic - all under one roof. cloudtwelve.co.uk

CLOUD

By PENDLE HARTE

DAVID LLOYD CLUBS, EUROPE’S PREMIUM HEALTH AND WELLNESS GROUP, IS COMING TO HARLOW

David Lloyd Harlow is opening its doors in December. Located in the Innovation Park area towards the east of the town, the Club will oﬀer a wide range of state-of-the-art health, ﬁtness, racquets and spa facilities for families and adults of all ages.

If you’re looking to improve your health and wellness, learn a new skill, spend time with family and friends, or simply relax, then look no further than the brand new David Lloyd Harlow.

Get those endorphins flowing - The centrepiece of the Club will be the 100+ station gym, which will house David Lloyd Clubs’ cutting-edge gym concept. With personal trainers on hand to give expert advice and help you to reach goals you never thought possible.

The group exercise studios will host more than 100 classes each week including the David Lloyd Clubs’ exclusive Signature Classes Collection.

Members will be able to take part in high-energy workouts such as IGN1TE, find balance in Mind and Body classes including SPIRIT, Reformer Pilates and yoga, pedal through exhilarating RHYTHM and CYCLONE group cycling classes, and experience the adrenaline rush from the exclusive HIIT class BLAZE.

Raise your game - Fun for the whole family is guaranteed on the padel and premium cushioned acrylic tennis courts. An experienced team of racquets professionals will be on hand to offer first-rate coaching, so whether you’re an experienced player or complete beginner, there’ll be something for everyone.

Unwind time - The luxurious Spa Retreat and outdoor Spa Garden will be the perfect escape from the rigours of everyday life. A Himalayan salt sauna, rainforest experience shower, citrus steam room, ice cave and plunge pool, all in a stunning space designed to aid relaxation and rejuvenation.

Plus, for swimmers, the indoor and outdoor pools and hydropools will give members an energy boost from the water, whatever the weather.

Family Fun together - Family sits at the heart of David Lloyd Clubs. With structured, progressive swim and tennis coaching and DL Kids activities including after-school and holiday Clubs, there’s always something to keep the youngest members entertained while learning new skills. For little ones aged 8 and over, the David Lloyd Clubs ‘Rebels’ classes will offer kids a chance to enhance their fitness and wellbeing.

Clubroom - The stylish Clubroom is the heart of the Club and will offer the ideal place to unwind with friends and family and grab a delicious bite. For those sunnier days, enjoy dining alfresco and perhaps a refreshing drink while the kids play in the outdoor play area.

An adults-only business lounge will provide a comfortable alternative to working from home, where you can take advantage of refreshments being brought directly to your table - and then even squeeze in a quick class between work calls!

It’s all coming to the new David Lloyd Harlow. There are limited introductory memberships available before the Club opens this winter, so hurry to secure your space.

Book a virtual tour or join online today: www.davidlloyd.co.uk/harlow

STRONG feelings R

esistance training o ers a wide range of benefits for people of all ages and fitness levels. Here are eight reasons why incorporating resistance training into your fitness routine isbeneficial.

1. INCREASES MUSCLE STRENGTH & TONE

Regular resistance training enhances muscle strength, allowing for better performance in daily activities and athletic pursuits. It also improves muscle tone and deﬁnition, contributing to a more sculpted and toned appearance.

2. ENHANCES BONE DENSITY

Resistance training stimulates bone growth and increases bone density, which is crucial in preventing osteoporosis and reducing the risk of fractures, particularly as we age.

3. BOOSTS METABOLIC RATE

More muscle mass means a higher resting metabolic rate, which helps in burning more calories even at rest. Resistance training can lead to excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC), causing your body to burn more calories after the workout.

4. IMPROVES JOINT HEALTH

Strengthening the muscles around joints provides better support and stability, which can reduce the risk of injury and alleviate symptoms of arthritis.

5. ENHANCES MENTAL HEALTH

Exercise, including resistance training, can help reduce stress levels and improve overall mood. It has been shown to be e ective in combating symptoms of depression and anxiety by promoting the release of endorphins.

6. BOOSTS CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH

Regular strength training can improve cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure, improving blood lipid proﬁles, and enhancing blood ﬂow.

7. IMPROVES FUNCTIONAL FITNESS

Resistance training enhances functional ﬁtness, which is the ability to perform everyday activities with ease. This includes lifting, pushing, pulling, and other movements that are part of daily life.

8. SUPPORTS WEIGHT MANAGEMENT

By increasing muscle mass and boosting metabolic rate, resistance training helps with weight management and can be an e ective part of a weight loss or maintenance programme.

Eight reasons why everyone should take up resistance training

QUORN STONE

- Park View, 30 Radford Way, CM12 0DA -

dream BUILDING THE

The Essex homes turning timber frame designs into reality

As self-builders put sustainability ﬁrst, structural timber frame houses are on the rise.

With a number of projects recently completed in Essex, the experts at Carpenter Oak share all you need to know about why they are a solid, stylish and future proof choice.

Over the last three decades, the timeless appeal of structural timber frame homes has been on the rise. O ering a durable, high-quality building material, timber’s eco credentials speak for themselves.

As one of the UK’s leading designers and makers of timber frame projects, the team at Carpenter Oak have been helping self-builders to turn their grand design dreams into a reality since 1987. Absolutely meets two homeowners putting their trust in timber frame construction to bring their self-build dreams to life…

DESIGNING FOR THE FUTURE

After spending 30 years living in a centuries-old, converted barn with her husband and children, Pauline found herself ready for a new chapter. Widowed a few years ago, she began to imagine a home that would be more manageable, with a smaller garden – yet still full of character, comfort, and space for the people she loves most.

Rather than simply downsizing, Pauline made a bold decision. She sold her home but retained part of the land, giving her the perfect canvas on which to build something completely new – a beautiful, modern timber-framed home designed entirely around her changing needs.

The result is nothing short of remarkable. Her new home is a thoughtful blend of style and practicality, with four bedrooms that welcome visits from her children and grandchildren. Accessibility was front of mind throughout the design process, and a built-in lift o ers easy access to the ﬁrst ﬂoor.

At the heart of the home lies a stunning open-plan living area, where a vaulted timber frame roof and large glazed gable ﬂood the space with natural light and o er uninterrupted views of the garden. An oak balcony wraps elegantly around the space above, lending a sense of grandeur while providing access to the upstairs bedrooms and cosy sitting areas. The warmth and craftsmanship of timber continue throughout the home, from exposed oak frames in the bedrooms to bespoke wardrobes and luxurious roll-top baths that seamlessly blend with the natural materials.

Taking on such a signiﬁcant self-build project alone was no small feat, but Pauline’s vision and determination have paid o . She has created not only a beautiful home, but one that’s truly future-proofed, a space that reﬂects her style, suits her lifestyle, and will continue to evolve with her over time.

RURAL REVIVAL: A FOREVER HOME FRAMED IN OAK

For Marian and John Nash, the dream of a countryside home had long been taking shape. The couple had previously built a house on a plot of farmland once used as a menage for horses, but when the opportunity arose to create their forever home on the same site, they knew exactly where to start.

Having admired Carpenter Oak’s work for years in the pages of self-build magazines, Marian and John reached out to the team for guidance in turning their vision into reality. Working closely with their architect during the early planning stages, they secured approval for a new property – and with Carpenter Oak’s support – submitted an amended application to adapt the original design.

The revised plans introduced a striking oak frame throughout and a distinctive oak-framed corner porch, seamlessly blending the couple’s love of traditional craftsmanship with thoughtful modern living. The resulting home is predominantly single storey, designed with the future in mind. The main bedroom sits on the ground ﬂoor, while a guest room above is accessed via an oak-framed gallery landing.

Central to the design is a large open-plan living space with vaulted ceilings and exposed sling-brace trusses – a showstopping structural detail that adds character and grandeur. The interiors lean into a warm, farmhouse aesthetic, balancing traditional charm with a sleek, contemporary kitchen featuring a central island –the perfect place to gather, cook, and connect.

Despite navigating the complexities of building during the Covid era, Marian and John have created something truly special. The property is a beautifully balanced, highly functional home that honours the landscape, celebrates craft, and is built to last a lifetime.

WHY TIMBER?

Timber oﬀers a rare combination of beauty, strength, and soul. Visually, no two pieces are the same – it brings warmth, texture, and a natural elegance that deﬁnes a space. There’s heritage in every joint; centuries-old cra passed down through skilled hands, creating frames that honour tradition while shaping the future. It’s a responsible choice too – renewable, lowcarbon, and sustainably sourced. Built well, timber frames don’t just stand the test of time – they grow stronger with age, becoming part of the building’s story for generations to come.

BUILDING GREENER HOMES

Timber is one of the most sustainable choices you can make when building. It actively locks in carbon – storing it for generations and helping to offset the overall carbon footprint of your project. When sourced responsibly, it becomes part of a regenerative cycle: renewable, low-impact, and long-lasting. At Carpenter Oak, all of their timber is sourced from sustainable, well-managed woodlands, certified under the internationally recognised PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) standard. This ensures every beam they use supports responsible forest management. They source much of their oak from PEFC-certified European forests, while their Douglas fir and larch are o en grown right here in the UK – reducing transport emissions and supporting local forestry.

For more information on the latest innovative timberframe projects, or to get in touch with the team about your self-build project, visit carpenteroak.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

FOLK hero

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

American artist EmmaKohlmann, celebrated for her playful, ﬂuid line work inspired by folk motifs and historical art, has debuted LaPittura, 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 LaPittura – 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 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.

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

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

ROOFLINE

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

WHATEVER THE WEATHER

How external shading can transform your Essex garden this autumn

By STUART DANTZIC

When it comes to planning your garden, the key isn’t just beautiful plants or stylish furniture, it’s looking for solutions that turn outdoor spaces into proper living areas all year round.

Time and time again I’ve seen people get excited about the visual side of garden design, but they often forget to consider how they’ll use the space once their renovation is complete. Without proper shelter, even the most stunning gardens become unusable during the colder months.

It’s no secret that the beauty of autumn lies in those crisp, bright days which could be perfect for outdoor dining, if you’re prepared. Modern awnings are an ideal solution, o ering adjustable cover and protection when temperatures drop. Wallmounted and covering large areas, without cluttering your garden, they’re operated at the touch of a button with optional sensors that automatically adjust to changing conditions. Add an infra-red heater and you can comfortably enjoy an evening meal outside throughout the season.

For those wanting something more substantial, pergolas with louvered roofs e ectively become an extension of your home. You can angle the roof slats to limit autumn sun glare or close them completely

when it rains. Plus, optional lighting, heating and side screens means you can create an enclosed space protected from all elements.

Our Classic pergola provides unmatched durability as either a freestanding feature or when connected to your home, while our Prestige model features a roof that opens completely providing clear views of the autumnal skies.

Before selecting any shading solution, you must think about how you want to use this outdoor space throughout the year. Do you want a peaceful area for your morning co ee, dedicated entertainment space or a quiet retreat for reading?

Whatever your needs, having this clarity will help you ﬁnd the best solution.

Quality external shading systems o er many beneﬁts to homeowners that extend beyond the summer months. Although they’re often perceived to be warm weather luxuries, pergolas and awnings allow you to enjoy your garden throughout the year. Well-designed products create comfortable outdoor conditions during autumn’s mild days and provide essential shelter when the weather turns.

Caribbean Blinds is a proud British manufacturer with four decades of experience in external shading solutions. Its comprehensive range of compact awnings and louvered roof pergolas are completely customisable ensuring the perfect ﬁt for every Essex garden and budget.

Stuart Dantzic is the MD of Caribbean Blinds. For more information visit cbsolarshading.co.uk

Quite the performance

BRENTWOOD SCHOOL

Brentwood School offers exceptional performing arts with inclusive opportunities in music, drama, and dance. With all-Steinway facilities and a unique Specialist Music Programme, students thrive through personalised coaching, leadership roles, and vibrant performances that build confidence, creativity, and academic success. Register by 1st November 2025 for September 2026 entry. brentwoodschool.co.uk

BIG IMPACT

The importance of charity at The Beaulieu Park School as pupils raise nearly £6,000 in fundraising

Pupils at The Beaulieu Park School, an all through school in Chelmsford, have raised nearly £6,000 for Cancer Research UK and Broomﬁeld Hospital after Year 5 pupil, Amber Butcher, was treated by the hospital for cancer. Ten-year-old Amber was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer, at age nine. During her chemotherapy treatment, Amber was isolated on the children’s ward to avoid

infection and unable to access the playroom. Following a donation of personal toys from the hospital’s play team, she was inspired to share the joy she experienced with other children at the hospital.

Amber arranged a bake sale and online fundraiser with support from Ms Koller, Head of Primary School at The Beaulieu Park School, her friends and the school community, and raised money to donate £2,400 of brand-new toys to the hospital’s children’s ward.

Ms Koller says: “We are incredibly proud of Amber, and her desire to give back to

the hospital is truly inspirational. Our sta were more than happy to support her fundraising mission, and we are not surprised that our wider school community joined forces to help Amber achieve her goals. She has brought great joy to the children at Broomﬁeld Hospital and is a role model for the rest of our pupils.”

Inspired by Amber’s initiative, seven of her classmates took part in the Chelmsford 5k Race for Life on 13th July at Hylands Park, Greenbury Way, and raised £3,500 for Cancer Research UK.

Absolutely visited the school to chat to two of the behind the scenes team to ﬁnd out about charity initiatives and the importance in the development of the pupils.

SARAH SLATER, HEAD OF SECONDARY SCHOOL AT THE BEAULIEU PARK SCHOOL

The world is becoming increasingly more complex. More than ever before, it requires socially aware individuals who can demonstrate empathy, who strive to do good and who want to address challenges in the world and be part of a better society. At The Beaulieu Park School, we challenge our students to consider how their actions can a ect others and encourage their participation in charitable initiatives from a young age so they can develop essential life skills that they can bring into their communities, such as teamwork, communication and leadership.

Our ARRK principles – Aspiration, Respect, Responsibility and Kindness –were developed by students, parents, sta and governors to emphasise the behaviours the Beaulieu family strives to model.

“We challenge our students to consider how their actions can a ect others”

Community engagement is one of the ways in which we encourage our students to develop these attributes, whether this is through volunteering or raising money for local and national charities. In every year group, students are o ered opportunities to engage with charities. For example, our Cancer Has No Colours Charity Event encourages students in all year groups to wear their favourite football teams’ colours while raising funds for the Bradley Lowery Foundation, which helps families who need medical treatment and equipment not available from the NHS. Alongside the Cancer Has No Colours Charity Event, awareness days such as Red Nose Day help to build the foundation for when students progress to programmes such as The Duke of Edinburgh, where they can commit more time to volunteering work in their communities. By laying the groundwork through early exposure to these activities, we ﬁnd that, as our students get older, they take the initiative to continue their own fundraising e orts.

PAUL BANKS, CEO OF CHELMSFORD LEARNING PARTNERSHIP

At Chelmsford Learning Partnership, we believe that it is important to make a positive contribution to the communities that our schools serve, which is why we are proud to see individual student fundraising activities taking place alongside schoolwide initiatives such as The Beaulieu Park School’s recent Cancer Has No Colours charity event. Not only does this reﬂect our ethos of ensuring children grow up with a sense of responsibility for themselves and others, but we can

see that they are developing the skills and attributes that they need to make a positive contribution to the world.

Participating in charitable initiatives is important for children’s personal development, which is why The Beaulieu Park School and many of our other schools encourage students to support local charities through volunteering and fundraising. As adults, we understand that we have a role to play in modelling the behaviour that will support this style of learning, which is why our trust sta are encouraged to volunteer within the schools in our trust from September.

From Amber at The Beaulieu Park School, to pupils at Barnes Farm schools taking part in WOW – The Walk to School Challenge to reduce congestion and pollution, and pupils at Roding Valley High School who collected donations for their local food bank appeal, our students demonstrate a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability. Sta across the trust have also shown their dedication to charitable causes, including those who recently ran events such as the Chelmsford Half Marathon and the Royal Parks Half Marathon to raise funds for their chosen charities. These initiatives reﬂect CLP’s core mission: to help every individual develop in character, ﬁnd their voice, and make a positive di erence in the world around them. We are proud of the collective e orts that continue to strengthen our schools’ connections with their communities and promote values that last a lifetime.

To learn more about The Beaulieu Park School, visit beaulieuparkschool.com

Leading the WAY

Two recent events showcase the forwardthinking approach at New Hall School

On 25th June, New Hall School in Chelmsford hosted its inaugural Science Fair, a spectacular event that brought together 60 bright young minds from Collingwood Primary School, New Hall School, The Bishops’ CofE and RC Primary School, and Ursuline Preparatory School.

In a day full of scientiﬁc discovery, ahead of presenting their projects to pupils and teachers, participants explored interactive stalls, engaging with hands-on experiments and cutting-edge demonstrations. The dynamic rota of activities captivated students and visitors alike.

At a fascinating hands-on stall hosted by Colchester Zoo, students delved into the wonders of animal behaviour and

conservation. Animals from the New Hall Farm & Outdoor Centre for Natural Sciences brought a smile to everyone’s faces.

Representatives from the Imperial War Museum helped students understand the science of ﬂight at their interactive exhibit, teaching them awe-inspiring facts about aircrafts and aerodynamics, a mind-bending VR experience transported pupils to new worlds.

New Hall’s own teachers of science ran interactive chemistry, biology and physics exhibits, including rocket launching, an ‘active crime scene’ investigation, and a laboratory of wonders with thrilling experiments.

Following an educational morning, the air buzzed with anticipation as students unveiled a total of 28 innovative projects. From ‘the science of jelly wobbling’ and ‘the reason behind volcano eruptions’, to research on ‘best toothpastes’ and the

THE SCIENCE FAIR WAS A VIBRANT CELEBRATION OF CURIOSITY, CREATIVITY AND COMMUNITY COLLABORATION

‘e ect of music on short term memory’, the range of topics was impressive.

The Judges’ Awards were presented to Oliver and Ariana from Ursuline with their project entitled ‘Do birds eat more food from a certain colour feeder?’, and Oscar and Gri n from The Bishops’ Primary with their project ‘Does the ﬂavour of gum a ect its longevity?’ The Pupils’ Choice Award went to Elisa, Grace and Stella from New Hall School for their project entitled ‘Does homemade cake taste better than store bought?’

“The Science Fair was a vibrant celebration of curiosity, creativity,

and community collaboration. The judges were left in awe of the depth of research, creativity, and passion on display,” commented Helen Moore, Science Lead for the Preparatory Divisions at New Hall School.

In other news, New Hall School is proud to announce that it has received a ‘Platinum Award’ from the Woodland Trust, the UK’s largest woodland conservation charity. This award is the highest level of achievement in the Woodland Trust’s Green Tree Schools Award programme, which encourages schools to connect with the natural world.

To achieve the award, pupils in the Preparatory Divisions took part in a wide range of initiatives, including a woodland photography walk that inspired creative art pieces, interactive lessons on woodland animals and their habitats, and tree identiﬁcation exercises. The pupils also helped the Estates team to plant 60 trees, 200 native saplings, and over 100 metres of hedgerow, as well as creating wildﬂower meadows and pollinator zones around the school’s 70-acre site.

“We are incredibly proud of our pupils’ enthusiasm for the natural world. Exploring the beautiful grounds at New Hall has inspired so much of their learning, and our pupils have demonstrated a strong sense of environmental responsibility, helping to plant trees and create wildlife-friendly habitats,” said Samantha Twomey, Head of the Preparatory Division.

New Hall School’s commitment to sustainability is woven into every aspect of school life, combining student leadership, curriculum integration and operational innovation. At the heart of this e ort is the student-led Eco Council in the Senior Divisions, which spearheads impactful initiatives such as litter picks, recycling campaigns, energy audits, and food waste reduction projects. Sustainability is also embedded in the curriculum, from gardening clubs in the Nursery to Sixth Form discussions on global environmental ethics, ensuring that all students are responsible stewards of the planet. The school continues to invest in eco-conscious infrastructure, including energy-e cient buildings, a fully electric vehicle ﬂeet, and on-site biodiversity projects such as rewilding and tree planting.

newhallschool.co.uk

Head START

Four ways to prepare your child to start secondary school in September

By JAMES MCCAUGHRAN

Transitioning to secondary school can be a daunting experience for Year 7 students. It is completely normal for parents to experience anxiety for their child as the ﬁrst week of the new academic year approaches. From forming friendships to managing their increased workload to how they’ll adjust to their new environment, here are four ways you can support your child as they prepare for secondary school in September.

HELP THEM TO DEVELOP IMPORTANT SKILLS AHEAD OF

TIME

Make sure that your child understands the main di erences between primary and secondary school. This will minimise any potential surprises in the ﬁrst few days and help them to embrace their newfound independence. Not only may your child need to adapt to an increased amount of homework, but they will also have lessons with many more teachers than they are used to, each of whom may have slightly

di erent teaching styles. Outside of the classroom, students will have more freedom of movement throughout the day around the school site. This can be a little intimidating at ﬁrst, but they will soon embrace their new independence during the school day. You might ﬁnd it useful to help them prepare for their new found independence by encouraging them to strengthen their time management skills. Tools such as calendars, diaries and timers can be useful to support your child in establishing a routine and staying on track with activities.

“CLUBS AND SOCIETIES ARE A FANTASTIC WAY TO MEET PEOPLE WHO SHARE SIMILAR INTERESTS”

FAMILIARISE THEM WITH THEIR NEW SCHOOL ROUTINES

As the ﬁrst day of school approaches, reading through any school handbooks with your child can help them feel more familiar with how things will work at their school and what will be expected of them. Building familiarity can help reduce potential anxiety: practising the journey to and from school together can be helpful, along with agreeing on what your child should do at the end of the school day, particularly if they don’t have access to a mobile phone.

If your child has an older sibling or cousin at the school they will be attending, you might ﬁnd it helpful to have them share their insight and advice. Sometimes, it can be even more reassuring to hear from a peer than a parent.

BUILD EXCITEMENT FOR MAKING NEW FRIENDS

While many children will feel happier if they know they will have familiar faces with them at school, there will always be students for whom this is not the case. So, it is important to remind them that there will be many others in the same position on the ﬁrst day.

One of the main advantages of a new start is the exciting prospect of making new friends. Encourage your child to be brave and talk to children they don’t know. If your child feels particularly anxious about this, why not practise introductions, asking questions and initiating conversations with them in advance?

EMBRACE SCHOOL INDUCTION ACTIVITIES

Most independent secondary schools will have held induction days to give new students a taster of what to expect at the end of last term. In the ﬁrst week of term, specialised induction activities, ideally including spending time with buddies in older year groups, aim to

make new students feel welcome and gain familiarity with their new surroundings quickly. For example, when our students transition to the Stephen Perse Cambridge Senior School, they are invited to attend a ‘Clubs and Activities Fair’ in their ﬁrst few days to explore the co-curricular opportunities available. Clubs and societies are a fantastic way to meet people who share similar interests. By spending time together building their understanding of what to expect at their new school and developing the skills that they might need to thrive, you can ensure that your child feels more comfortable when they transition to their secondary school this September.

James McCaughran is head of Dame Bradbury’s Junior School. Find out more by visiting damebradburys.com

JAMES MCCAUGHRAN

TOP MARKS

New

Hall School in Chelmsford is celebrating records as A level results are revealed

It was a day of celebration and excitement at New Hall School in Chelmsford, as Year 13 students received their A level results, marking another year of outstanding academic achievement and dedication. After months of anticipation, the cohort gathered with teachers, friends and family, to mark this signiﬁcant milestone in their educational journey.

At New Hall, an impressive 41% of all A level grades are at A*/A. Three quarters of all grades awarded are A*-B. In a New Hall record, almost 80% of students secured their ﬁrst-choice universities.

Principal Katherine Je rey, who this year celebrates 23 years of Headship, becoming the longest serving Head of New Hall and in HMC, said: “It is a joyful morning at New Hall, celebrating one of our best ever sets of A level results. Records have been set, with 80% of New Hall students securing their ﬁrst-choice university, and with over half of the A level successes being in STEM subjects. A remarkable 22 students are celebrating

“We could not be more proud of our students and our dedicated team of teachers”

up to 5 straight A*/A grades. We could not be more proud of our students, and our inspirational and dedicated team of teachers. As well as achieving academic excellence, this cohort has also embraced the full breadth of life at New Hall – excelling in sport, the performing arts, leadership roles and service in their community. We are excited for this next chapter, for our outgoing Year 13.”

Vice Principal, Dr Paul Ti en, commented: “New Hall is renowned for its Performing & Creative Arts, with these Departments celebrating 100% at A*-B grades, with around half of these at A*/A. Other notable successes were in Modern Languages, with 57% of grades at A*/A. I am delighted to see New Hall Languages ﬂourishing, against the national trend in these subjects; 43% of New Hall Modern Languages results are at A*, demonstrating the strength of our award-winning Modern Languages Programme, which integrates the teaching of French and Spanish with practical applications, such as cookery.”

The results from boarding students are particularly impressive, with a superb 59% of their grades at A*/A and 81% of grades at A*-B. Romilly Ireland, Head Girl, boarder and alumna of St Cedd’s School, Chelmsford, gained three A* grades and is excited to start her studies of History (Ancient and Modern) at Balliol College, Oxford. Romilly said: “I am really excited for this next step. The biggest part of my school life has been boarding – the support, both academically and emotionally, from the boarding sta has always made New Hall feel like a home away from home. I cannot stress enough the value of the incredible opportunities I have had here!”

newhallschool.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 thegreat 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 ﬁnal 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.

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.

SAINT NICHOLAS

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

Available To Purchase Off Plan, Enquire To Reserve

LOUGHTON IG10 £1,500,000 ASKING PRICE

urden & Hunt welcome to the market this four bedroom detached home o ering over 2,400 sq ft. Internally the property beneﬁts from an impressive kitchen, living and dining space, additional dining area, separate lounge and a family bathroom. Externally to the front the property boasts a large garden, o road parking and garage, whilst a landscaped garden can be found to the rear.

Ideally positioned just a short stroll from the Central Line, Queens Road and sought after schools, is this attractive detached family home. This much loved property offers four bedrooms, with en suite to master, three reception rooms, utility room, carriage driveway parking and a delightful 100ft west facing rear garden.

Offering a delightful mix of both period and contemporary features is this charming Victorian semi-detached house, ideally positioned for Epping Forest, Queens Road and the Central Line. The present owners have created a stunning family home with three double bedrooms, bathroom plus en suite shower room, two reception rooms and a wow factor kitchen/living space looking onto a 90ft rear garden.

Bucking the TREND

The West Essex property market has seen strong levels of activity, writes Savills Loughton head of o ce Felicity Walker

As summer draws to a close and we head into autumn, the housing market is presenting both challenges and opportunities. Whether planning to buy, sell, or simply wanting to stay informed, understanding the property landscape is more important than ever.

The West Essex market has been robust, with competitively priced, well-presented homes generating multiple o ers. Properties between £1m and £2.5m are in highest demand, while the number of buyers registering with our Loughton o ce is signiﬁcantly up year on year.

The market is not without its nuances. Properties requiring signiﬁcant renovation are taking longer to sell, while Savills has also revised its ﬁve-year house price forecasts in light of less national activity. However, data from property market analysts TwentyCI shows that net agreed sales are 15% up across all price brackets in the East of England compared to 2024.

A huge number of those looking to move are coming from East London – with Loughton, Buckhurst Hill and Woodford particularly popular. Properties here o er very good value for money, fall within the catchment area of some highly regarded schools, have excellent transport links and are surrounded by plenty of green space.

For homes at £1m+ it is 22% higher.

More locally, Land Registry data shows transaction levels are up 7% in Epping Forest – broadly in line with the county average.

Prime property prices in Loughton and surrounding areas meanwhile increased by 1.3% in the three months to June 2025. This leaves them 1.8% higher than a year ago and 15.9% higher than March 2020. Looking ahead the market should remain robust, albeit ﬁnely balanced. Competitively priced well-presented homes are commanding plenty of interest. Sellers are advised to price realistically, while buyers should be prepared to act decisively when the right property comes along.

On the market

Outstanding family home in the heart of Loughton Newnham Close IG10

Guide price £1,600,00

This is a stunning four-bedroom semi-detached house situated on a delightful cul-de-sac. Rooms of note include a stylish dining room and snug separated by chic crittle doors, while to the rear is a Porcelanosa designed kitchen which is open plan to the main living area and oﬀ which is an indoor swimming pool. Upstairs are four sumptuously designed bedrooms and four sleek bathrooms. savills.co.uk

FELICITY WALKER

The RIGHT IMPRESSION

James Hunt, co-founder of Durden & Hunt, on how to build momentum when selling your property

Across the market, sellers are finding that valuations can sometimes come in lower than expected. In some prime areas, these reductions have been significant, with a handful of examples falling short by large sums. While this can feel like a setback, it is also part of a normal market cycle where prices adjust to reflect current conditions.

For buyers, this environment can be attractive, encouraging those who may have been waiting on the sidelines to take action. For sellers, it means that accurate pricing, strong marketing and a clear strategy are more important than ever. A well positioned property can still achieve an excellent result, particularly when it stands out for presentation and quality.

Surveyors and lenders are taking a cautious view, which can sometimes create a gap between what a buyer is willing to pay and what a valuation suggests. The

key is bridging that gap by showing the property’s value in the strongest possible light. High quality photography, compelling descriptions and proactive promotion can make the di erence between a property that lingers and one that generates real competition. At Durden & Hunt we approach every sale with a focus on creating momentum. We know that ﬁrst impressions matter and that positioning your property correctly from the outset can lead to faster o ers and stronger outcomes. Even in a market where caution is common, there are always buyers ready to act when they see the right home at the right price.

The current climate may require a little more strategy, but it also o ers opportunities for those who adapt. With the right approach, a changing market can still deliver excellent results. The secret is to work with an agent who understands the shifts and knows how to turn them to your advantage.

A wonderful family home in Buckhurst Hill

Buckhurst Hill, IG9

Oﬀers In Excess Of £1,100,000

Durden & Hunt welcome to the market this spacious four bedroom home complete with large, mature garden and oﬀ road parking. The charming residence beneﬁts from a generous living and dining room, good sized kitchen, separate sitting room, primary bedroom with en-suite, family bathroom and a downstairs WC.

durdenandhunt.co.uk

JAMES HUNT

More than FOOD

Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall supports a new campaign that involves a whole host of Essex farms why everyone is talking about…

Patron of the Farm Retail Association (FRA), Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, is supporting a new campaign to encourage people to shop locally at farm shops, farmers’ markets and PYO businesses. The FRA’s ‘More Than Food’ campaign aims to raise awareness of the beneﬁts of shopping locally at farm retailers and why the freshness of farm to fork is superior, not only for our health and wellbeing, but for the economy, communities and the environment.

The rural economy employs around 3.6 million people across the UK. But faced with the challenges imposed by the recent inheritance tax, changes since Brexit and rising costs, farmers are in need of local community support now more than ever before.

Choosing a farm retailer directly invests into the resilience of rural Britain – with 75p of every £1 spent in a farm retail business staying in the local economy. By supporting local farm retailers, consumers are helping farm shops to step up as vibrant hubs for communities across the country, as the face of the British high street continues to evolve. Reports from farm shops and markets up and down the country suggest that sales are up, and consumers are voting with their feet.

“There’s an undeniable magic to buying food directly from the people who grew or reared it,” comments Hugh FearnleyWhittingstall. “Individually, farm retail outlets o er something wonderful. But as a national network, they play a monumental role – empowering farmers, strengthening

regional economies, providing fresh food and cutting food miles. This collective network is a national treasure we must champion.

“It’s such a pleasure to bring produce back from a farm shop or farmers’ market, that’s been grown nearby and that comes from your local landscape. You know it’s in season, it hasn’t travelled far and it’s the best it can be. It’s also so important that children get their hands on real food, and on fresh fruit and vegetables to help them understand what fun it is to have these in your home, in your kitchen and on your plate.”

Farm shop members of the FRA in Essex include: Ashlyns Farm Shop in Epping;

Calcot Hall Farm Shop in Brentwood; Lathcoats Farm Shop in Galleywood; Leytonstone Farmers Market in Leytonstone; McLauchlans in Boxted (PYO); Upsons Farm Shop in Chelmsford; and Walthamstow Farmers Market in Walthamstow.

The More Than Food campaign is a rallying cry for a healthier, more connected, and economically vibrant Britain. Itis a chance for consumers to vote with their wallets for quality, community, and the future of our farms.

Find out more at farmretail.co.uk/morethanfood

HUGH FEARNLEY-WHITTINGSTALL PATRON OF THE FARM RETAIL ASSOICATION