Absolutely South West September 2022 by ABSOLUTELY Magazines

SOUTH WEST

South West SEPTEMBER 2022 / £3.95

PLU S

SPECIAL News and views from all the best schools

JAMIE OLIVER

One pot dinners •

BATTERSEA POWER STATION SEPTEMBER 2022

A new life for the icon •

BOOK SMART Stylish solutions for your library

All

WHITE PALE SHADES FOR THE LATE SEASON

ZEST.LONDON Cover with spine.indd All Pages

26/08/2022 16:14

SW SLIP - WHITE HOUSE SCHOOL.indd 2

26/08/2022 16:14

SW SLIP - WHITE HOUSE SCHOOL.indd 3

26/08/2022 16:14

S TAY I N B E D The ultimate luxury is taking time to unwind in a bed so comfortable that you never want to leave

1 5 W I G M OR E ST REET I LO N DO N W 1U 1P I M ARYL EBONE@CAR PED IEMBED S.C O.UK I +44 ( 0) 20 3982 3252 I CAR PE DIE M B E DS .C O .UK CO P EN HAGEN

GOT HENBURG

LOND ON

NEW IN

CARPE DIEM.indd 4

SEOUL

STOC KHOL M

Z UR IC H

AND OTHER FINE LOCATIO NS

FUR NITUR E THIR D FLOOR

26/08/2022 16:14

Bed: Sandö I Fabric: Designer´s Guild Tammaro Smoke I Carpet: Light Beige I Bed Linen: Storm Shell I Bedside table: Holme I Headboard: Tornö I Bed legs: Reling

CARPE DIEM.indd 5

26/08/2022 16:14

We’ll guide you through.. When the way ahead seems uncertain, talk to Moore Barlow. We’re a law firm that helps people navigate their most complex challenges and their greatest opportunities, whether in business or in life. Whether it’s a multi-faceted family matter, advice on wills, tax planning and trusts, an employment matter, buying or selling your home, or a commercial quandary, we can help. Combining a wealth of experience and specialist legal expertise, we’ve got what it takes to map the way ahead and to get you to a better place, calmly, skilfully and sensitively. Whatever your circumstances, our lawyers can help achieve the right outcome for you – we’ll be your guide. For more information or legal advice, please contact us on: T: 01483 543210 or E: info@moorebarlow.com

moorebarlow.com Private wealth | Family | Employment | Property | Disputes

MOORE BARLOW.indd 6

26/08/2022 16:14

ABSOLUTELY

Contents SEPTEMBER 2022

106 12

C U LT U R E ABSOLUTELY LOVES

H E A LT H & B E A U T Y 55 BEAUTY NOTES

WHAT'S ON

57 BEAUTY BUYS

10 things we’re coveting this month

Your diary for September

20 IN BLOOM

Strawberry Hill's fabulous Flower Festival

FOOD & DRINK 32 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL News from the industry

35 EATING OUT

Golborne Road's newcomer Caia

FA S H I O N 44 THE SHOOT New looks from Stella McCartney

50 JEWELLERY Happy hoops

What's hot and what's new

Vitamins for your face

INTERIORS INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS News and views

POWER STRUGGLE

Inside the new Battersea Power Station

T R AV E L 106 MORROCAN JOURNEY

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N The online guide to inspirational London living that helps you stay one step ahead of the crowd and gives you the chance to win exclusive prizes.

From the city to the coast

E D U C AT I O N 130 GAME ON

How Quiddich became a real sport

138 GOOD COMMUNICATION How do schools encourage it?

O N T H E C OV E R delavali.com

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

CONTENTS.indd 7

26/08/2022 16:15

Beautiful timber windows & doors

EDITOR IN CHIEF PENDLE HARTE EDITORIAL ASSISTANT RACHEL HOGG MAMA EDITOR CARLY GLENDINNING ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA SENIOR DESIGNERS MIKE ROBERTS, SUZETTE SCOBLE MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER CARMEN GRAHAM JUNIOR DESIGNER KAI NICHOLLS GROUP SALES MANAGER JOSEPH HAISMAN MEDIA CONSULTANTS STELLA ADAMS ANABELA KOLECI KATIE WOOD FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID

Window shopping

DIRECTORS CRAIG DAVIES, LEAH DAY, JAMES FUSCHILLO NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT

For editorial enquiries please email: pendle@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 3981 7187 or email: craig@zest-media.com

zest.london Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. Social icon

Circle Only use blue and/or white. For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

www.ayrtonbespoke.com 020 8877 8920 enquiries@ayrtonbespoke.com

Fo l l ow Us O n Fa c e b o o k @ABSOLUTELYMAGAZINES T wi t t e r & In s t a g ra m @ABSOLUTELY_MAGS We b si t e

a b s o l u t e l y. l o n d o n

Wandsworth | Crouch End | Dulwich

FLANNEL.indd 8

26/08/2022 16:15

Editor’s

LETTER ABSOLUTELY’S September issue highlights

o it's back to school and the grind after the long break. September is either a wrench or a relief, depending on whether you have small children. If you don't, then September is the best time to go on holiday, for the lack of crowds, the kinder temperatues and the smug feeling of going away just when everyone else is getting back into their school uniforms. At Absolutely, we are dedicating this issue to Education, looking in detail at schools and everything relating to how we educate our children. Everyone knows that choosing the right place for our precious offspring is crucial, yet when we're actually faced with the choices, it's hard to know how to decide. In this extended Education special we focus on just that: making an informed decision. And, of course, we're keeping our focus on all of life's other necessities too, such as what to eat and what to wear, how to decorate a home and how to entertain ourselves in London. Enjoy September.

Work space How to create a conducive environment

Glow up All the best products

PENDLE HARTE EDITOR

Now's the time to be thinking about stoves

Dinner party New restaurant openings

Fresh stems

Why we love Richard Brendon's new vases

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

ED LETTER.indd 9

26/08/2022 16:15

Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

PENDLE HARTE

M A G E N TA MANIA Molly Goddard's AW22 collection is full of bright colours and voluminous shapes for maximum autumn impact. mollygoddard.com

C A N DY C R U S H Jonathan Adler's Mustique collection pairs juicy, dimensional color with bold, Memphis-y geometrics. Featuring swirling poppy tones, each Mustique vase brings one-of-a-kind shine to any modern tablescape. jonathanadler.com

EDITOR’S PICK

ROSE TINT Henry Holland's new collection of artisinal hand-blown glass includes this beautiful pink swirly glass. henryhollandstudio.com

FA C E U P With a gentle nod to Scandinavian folk art, Bjørn Wiinblad's romantic, imaginative art is now reinterpreted in this modern, functional range of ceramics fit for a new generation. scandinavianshop.co.uk

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

WISHLIST.indd 10

26/08/2022 16:15

ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

LOCK UP Mustard Made's brightly coloured lockers come in a variety of shapes and sizes to bring locker room chic to any space. Pink is our favourite, naturally. mustardmade.com

SHINE ON These gold vermeil hoop earrings feature a pink opal gemstone at their centre – and the stones are interchangeable for a truly versatile look. lilyblanche.com

M A R B L E M E LT Pink and red is an excellent colour combination and this marbley candle promises an interesting melt. £15 rockettstgeorge.co.uk

PINK FRILL Paolita's Zephyr Bianca One Piece is a beautiful statement swimsuit that has an off-the-shoulder ruﬄe with a delicate trim edging. harveynichols.com

PINK PA L E T T E Bod colours characterise Margo in Margate's eyecatching and characterful artworks. margomcdaid.com

B A L L PA R K Caran D'Ache's new collection takes the iconic 849 Ballpoint Pen and injects a range of pastel and bright block colours, creating a collection of bold and trend-lead pens ideal for the stationary aficionado. carandache.com

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

WISHLIST.indd 11

26/08/2022 16:16

THE RUSSELL GALLERY ALISON MCWHIRTER ‘THE FORCE THAT THROUGH THE GREEN FUSE DRIVES THE FLOWER’ 8 SEPTEMBER - 1 OCTOBER 2022

VERNAZZO OIL 16” X 23”

ROSES & WILD FLOWERS AGAINST YELLOW LAKE OIL 20” X 20”

SNOW IN NEW YORK OIL 39” X 39”

12 Lower Richmond Road, Putney SW15 1JP | Open Tuesday -Saturday 10am -5:30pm T: 0208 780 5228 | E: russgallery@aol.com Images on www.russell-gallery.com

THE RUSSELL GALL_SEPTEMBER 2022_ABSOLUTELY LONDON.indd 12

26/08/2022 16:16

C U LT U R E

BESPOKE FLORAL WEAR, DESIGNED AND WORN BY PHIL JOHN PERRY. FOR MORE FROM THE STRAWBERRY HILL FLOWER FESTIVAL, VISIT PAGE 20.

What's On This Month 14 • Outdoor Cinemas 25 • London's Rare Book Fair 27 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

CULTURE OPENER.indd 13

26/08/2022 16:41

The Agenda

EV E N TS N OT TO M I S S I N LO N D O N

EV E NT

Love & Anger

30 September LANDMARK ARTS CENTRE Back by popular demand, the Kate Bush tribute band, Cloudbusting, will return to the Landmark Arts Centre with their new show, 'Love & Anger'. This breathtaking show will take you on a journey through Kate’s extraordinary repertoire and will perform all her greatest hits. landmarkartscentre.org

E X H I B I T I O N

Korean Wave F RO M S E PTE MB E R 24, V I C TO R I A & ALBERT MUSEUM

The ‘Korean Wave’ began to swell in the 1990s and has gone on to reach all corners of the world since then. This landmark exhibition celebrates the culture of South Korea in all its forms and will feature around 200 objects. Visitors will get to learn about the fascinating socio-political context behind some of the country’s most iconic cultural exports, including the global phenomenon, K-Pop. vam.ac.uk

EV E NT

Champions Day 15 October A S C O T R AC E C O U R S E QIPCO's British Champions Day is the ultimate race-day event. The best horses, trainers and jockeys will step onto the hallowed turf for a ﬁnal, thrilling showdown. Whether you’re a racing guru or are just after a fun day out, Champions Day has something for everyone. britishchampionsday.com

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

AGENDA.indd 14

26/08/2022 16:42

CULTURE • DIARY

ART FO R

LIFE

ART

First Impression 5-30 September CHARLES BURNAND A rather fragile new group show is coming to Charles Burnand’s Fitzrovia gallery. "First Impression" is a celebration of the glory of glass, timed to coincide with the UN’s International Year of Glass; the exhibition will feature pieces by both established and emerging artists. charlesburnand.com

With travel restrictions lifting, there's no better time to enjoy Asia's art scene After the return of Art Basel Hong Kong, all eyes are once again looking to Asia’s vibrant art scene.

ARTIST ANHZ PAINTING AT HKWALLS. PHOTO BY REN WEI

ADRIAN CHENG Adrian Cheng is contemporary Chinese art’s biggest supporter. A true innovator, he created the ﬁrst ever ‘K11 Art Mall’, a new museum model bringing the best of international and native Asian art to public shopping malls.

EV E N T

DESIGN FESTIVAL

This Month’s Must See

17- 25 September M U LT I P L E L O C AT I O N S One of the key moments of the city's cultural calendar has returned for the 20th year running. London’s Design Festival will bring together some of the most innovative and creative minds in the design world. With a full programme of must-see events, exhibitions and installations, it’s sure to be a thought-provoking week. londondesignfestival.com

THIERRY CHOW

T H I E R RY C H OW Daughter of one of Hong Kong’s most esteemed feng shui masters, Thierry Chow takes a distinctly modern approach to demystify and celebrate the ancient art for a new generation. She makes feng shui accessible and she might just change your life.

SH A K E SPE A R E 'S T HE T EMPE ST

U NTI L 22 OCTOBER, THE GLOBE THEATRE

hakespeare's Tumultuous tale of reckoning and redemption will be taking place poolside. In the Globe's newest production of the Tempest, Prospero doesn’t escape to an enchanted island, but rather to a holiday resort. But don’t let the budgie-smugglers and inﬂatable-ﬂamingos fool you, this light-hearted adaptation retains all the dark undercurrents of the source material and betrayal and revenge will abound. shakespearesglobe.com

ARTIST CALVIN HO PAINTING AT HKWALLS. PHOTO BY KYRA CAMPBELL

JASON DEMB SKI AND M A R I A WO N G Jason Dembski and Maria Wong co-run HKwalls, a non-proﬁt arts organisation that holds an incredible annual street art festival during Hong Kong’s March art month. They aim to create opportunities for artists to showcase their creativity.

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

AGENDA.indd 15

26/08/2022 16:42

ABSOLUTELY • PARTNERSHIP

LIFE WITHOUT LIMITS

If you want to learn live life to the fullest, then the Times+Life Lessons Festival is the event for you

urnout is fast becoming the next epidemic. As a nation subjected to constant stimulation combined with high levels of stress, thanks to a global pandemic, we are all in need of some help on how to live and thrive in this post-pandemic world. From the 9th until the 11th of September, the Times and the Sunday Times will be bringing together the most brilliant minds and thought leaders to help us do exactly that. The Times+ Life Lessons Festival's stellar line-up features over 100 speakers, all sharing their stories, ideas and attitudes about how we can take back control of our health, wealth and happiness. The Life Lessons main stage will be graced by the likes of Louis Theroux, Anya Hindmarch CBE, Paloma Faith, Caitlin Moran, Steven Bartlett, Rankin, Jay Blades

MBE and many more. They will be coming together to share their well-informed stories, advice and lived experiences. It's sure to be inspiring, enlightening and entertaining. The 'In Good Company' stage will offer a series of discussions and debates from leading health, wellbeing, cultural and business mentors. While leaders in travel, sport, adventure and self-discovery will share their stories about overcoming adversity on the 'Discovery Stage'. Those looking for intimate talks with experts on personal development can take part in the 'Times+ Masterclass Series'. The series will explore ways to improve and adapt lifestyle choices and tackles important topics such as, building a healthier brain and overcoming imposter syndrome. 'Around Town' offers a host of free events showcasing the newest innovations, concepts and techniques in the world of wellbeing. At The Fore's 'Lifestyle Lab',

you'll be able to attend free workshops tackling everyday stresses of modern life, from insomnia to stress and burnout. Creativity and wellbeing are intrinsically linked, and the festival is bursting with engaging immersive features, displays and installations. The sensational worldfirst Sensory Slowdown will captivate festival goers with a unique multi-sensory immersive journey. Devised by renowned innovator and sensory designer Ari Peralta, in collaboration with Mycoocoon. The experience combines light, scent, sound and touch to enable visitors to unwind and discover ways to live optimally. The Rewriting Extinction ‘Save the World’ digital gallery sponsored by DUG, brings the planet together and harnesses the power of storytelling to focus on species extinction and biodiversity and share simple ways in which we can make a difference. The last few years have seen our homes become our office, gym, restaurant and spa. Now restrictions have eased, our appetite to reconnect has never been stronger and the festival social spaces are designed to expand our minds and celebrate and rediscover the beauty of the world around us. The Retreat offers a calm sanctuary for visitors to rejuvenate their minds and bodies. You can refuel after busy talks at The Terrace, or rehydrate at The Supernacular Bar with delights created by flavour consultant Jack Sotti. The Garden is an al-fresco option at Lewis Cubitt Park perfect for picnics and relaxing between talks and experiences. Whether searching for inspiration, wanting to learn from experts or simply fancy rejuvenating your life the Times+ Life Lessons Festival will enlighten, entertain and engage all who visit, and in a truly spectacular setting. P L A N YO U R V I S I T Purchase your ticket for £45, and then Curate Your Day by booking additional talks on the Main Stage, In Good Company stage and Masterclass sessions. lifelessonsfestival.com

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

CURIOUS EVENTS.indd 16

26/08/2022 16:42

FROM DUSK INTO DARKNESS...

THE SPOOKY AFTER-DARK TRAIL FOR ALL THE FAMILY

halloweenatchiswickhouseandgardens.co.uk

14 – 31 OCTOBER TCS MEDIA 1.indd 17

26/08/2022 16:42

GRAND B O U Q U E T S The Flower Festival returns to Strawberry Hill this month By P E A R L B OY D

STAIRCASE BY LEIGH CHAPPELL FLOWERS & JANNE FORD, WITH FLOWERS FROM JUST DAHLIAS

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

STRAWBERRY HILL.indd 18

26/08/2022 16:42

CULTURE • FOCUS

THE HOLBEIN CHAMBER, BY CLAIRE SUTTON, FIG & FERN

THE TRIBUNE, BY MELISSA ASHLEY. TWISTED SISTERS

BESPOKE FLORAL WEAR, BY PHIL JOHN PERRY

he Strawberry Hill House Flower Festival returns for a fourth successive year on with a spectacular showcase of the very best of British-grown flowers, foam-free sustainable floristry and the design creativity of the UK’s leading floral designers. With vividly decorated or gilded rooms, illuminated by beautifully shaped windows, complete with stained glass, Strawberry Hill House in Twickenham offers a breath-taking setting for the threeday Flower Festival. Shining a spotlight on the beauty, variety and versatility of the fresh and dried flowers and foliage cultivated by British flower farmers, the Flower Festival gives free creative rein to the invited florists to share their artistry, expertise and passion for sustainable

floral design in design installations and floral demonstrations throughout the remarkable Gothic manor house. The Flower Festival features designs by some of Britain's finest floral designers and farmer-florists, including Electric Daisy Flower Company, Frances & Rose, Botanical Tales, Wild Bunch, Nettlewood Flowers, Bayntun Flowers, Aelisabet Flowers, Lunabloom, Queen of the Meadow, Smokebush Floral Design, Twisted Sisters, Viridis Flowers, Lunaria, Myrtle and Smith, The Divine Flower Company, Joanne Truby, and Xyris Botanicals Every stem of cut flower material at the Strawberry Hill House Flower Festival has been grown for the designers by members of Flowers from the Farm. Curated by Leigh Chappell and Janne Ford, the Flower Festival is produced for the first time this year in association with MICHAEL HARDY, RAVENSHILL FLOWER FARM

Flowers from the Farm, the award-winning membership organisation championing artisan growers of local, seasonal British cut flowers. Flowers from the Farm Co-Chair, Meg Edmonds, says: “We see a perfect synergy between the creative vision of the Strawberry Hill House Flower Festival and Flowers from the Farm. The Flower Festival presents a unique opportunity to showcase the talents of our farmer-florists and the beauty of local, seasonal British cut flowers in creative floral design.” Throughout the Flower Festival, guided tours of the transformed House will be available, including an evening of tours and a much-anticipated floral demonstration on Friday, 23rd September by acclaimed florist and sustainable floristry advocate, Shane Connolly. Shane holds Royal Warrants of appointment to HM The Queen and HRH The Prince of Wales and is possibly best known for decorating Westminster Abbey with an avenue of growing trees for the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Shane says: “We floral designers owe a debt of gratitude to Nature and the planet; so, we must create designs that are beautiful without and within. Designing sustainably does not stop creativity and magic, so it’s time we stopped hiding behind the pretty flowers, acknowledge the huge environmental issues, and show how it can be done, with festivals like The Strawberry Hill House Flower Festival.” There will be sessions showing visitors how they too can adopt more sustainable methods of flower arranging, A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

STRAWBERRY HILL.indd 19

26/08/2022 16:42

CULTURE • FOCUS

THE BLUE BREAKFAST ROOM, BY PHILIPPA STEWART & PHILIP JOHN PERRY

“A spectacular showcase of the very best of Britishgrown ﬂowers” THE LIBRARY, WITH DRIED FLOWERS FROM EMMA SPOWAGE

FLOWERS BY LOUISE LANGDON

plus a chance to quiz Strawberry Hill’s gardening team about your horticultural hiccups; from reluctant rhododendrons to drooping dahlias and glean advice on how to grow gorgeous geraniums or impressive Italian Asters. Visitors to the Flower Festival should make time to go for a wander around the wonderful grounds, created by renowned writer Horace Walpole (1717-1797). Horace Walpole was a pivotal figure in 18th-century society, literature, art and architecture. Walpole was a keen gardener, writing the hugely influential essay The History of the Modern Taste in Gardening which was first published in 1780. Walpole’s fiveacre garden has been faithfully restored to much of its original appearance, with a variety of beds, borders, walks, groves, lawns and woodland that would be wholly familiar to him today. Strawberry Hill’s 18th-century garden is one of the earliest in the English naturalistic style. Horace Walpole’s delightful essay on garden design is perhaps the most famous and influential piece of writing on the English landscape garden, first published in 1780 as part of his Anecdotes of Painting in England. In recent years, the House and Garden have been sympathetically restored to recreate Walpole’s unique vision and in the 21st century his “land of beauties” continues to thrive as a haven for wildlife and visitors throughout the year.

ST R AW B E R RY H I L L F LOW E R F E ST I VA L 23-25 September Strawberry Hill House & Garden 268 Waldegrave Road, Twickenham, TW1 4ST strawberryhillhouse.org.uk

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

STRAWBERRY HILL.indd 20

26/08/2022 16:42

MALVERN.indd 21

26/08/2022 16:42

THE ULTIMATE RACEDAY

SATURDAY 15 OCTOBER ASCOT RACECOURSE

QIPCO British Champions Day is the Ultimate Raceday and the ﬁnale of the British Flat racing season. Whether you’re a racing guru or you are just after the ultimate day out with friends and family, Champions Day has something for everyone. Worldclass racing, the fanzone, music after racing – don’t miss racing’s biggest celebration.

TICKETS ON SALE - BRITISHCHAMPIONSDAY.COM GREAT BRITISH RA.indd 22

26/08/2022 16:42

CULTURE • ARCHITECTURE

D O O R S O P E N London’s Open House Festival returns to all 33 boroughs this month By EVE HERBERT

A4 BY DAVID KOHN ARCHITECTS

“A festival that celebrates our curiosity about what happens inside the buildings that we walk past”

pen House is a festival celebrating London's architecture and neighbourhoods. For two weeks every September, lots of buildings not usually open to the public are set to invite us inside. It’s a fantastic opportunity to get inside and explore some of London's most impressive buildings, as well as some of its best-kept secrets. It's a festival that celebrates our curiosity about what happens inside the buildings that we walk past every day; a festival that works to give all Londoners the chance to learn from this city’s architecture and the people behind its architecture. A community of people who live, work, volunteer or care for these buildings contribute to the festival by

TIN HOUSE BY HENNING STUMMEL

CENTRAL SOMERS TOWN BY ADAM KHAN ARCHITECTS

THE WASH HOUSES BY WRIGHT AND WRIGHT ARCHITECTS

opening up their building to the public for a period during the two weeks. You can visit areas of London you’ve never been to before or explore the parts you know really well so that you can finally get inside the buildings you’ve seen from the outside so often. All of these contributors are listed on the website so you can look through what is open. Some things you will need to book on to and others you can drop in on the day or queue. For the 30 years the festival has been running, there has been a printed guide that takes all of the buildings and places that have committed to opening by June and collates them into a printed guide. It's a really wonderful physical object that you can use to get a sense of what we will be open for the festival. The festival website then has all of the most up-to-date information and all the functionality to book tours, sign-up for things you are interested in, and donate to the charity. open-city.org.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

CULTURE.indd 23

26/08/2022 16:42

TCS MEDIA 2.indd 24

26/08/2022 16:42

CULTURE • CINEMA

OPEN-AIR VIEWING

Make the most of the last of summer with these outdoor cinema experiences

POPCORN

PICKS

The per fect crunchy cinema companion

B y R AC H E L H O G G

Moonlit

MOVIES

THE LUNA CINEMA POPCORN SHED

Watch your favourite blockbusters, from an equally cinematic setting. Some of the country’s most beautiful estates and palaces will be home to the big screen this summer. Whether you’re in the mood for a gruesome slasher or a soppy romantic comedy, the program has something for every taste.

The brand’s founders have cooked up over 20 flavours of gourmet popcorn from their garden shed, each one more elaborate than the last, from £4. popcornshed.com

thelunacinema.com

Rooftop Reels R O O F TO P F I L M C L U B

This rooftop cinema may be located amongst the hustle and bustle of the inner city, but you’d never know it. Your viewing will remain completely undisturbed thanks to the personal state-of-the-art wireless headphones, leaving you free to sit back in a deck chair and lose yourself in the movie magic. rooftopﬁlmclub.com

M A I Z E & G R AC E What do you get when you combine all-natural ingredients and tasty flavours? The answer is a delightful treat that is both light and satisfying, from £2.50. maizeandgrace.com

ACT I VE AUDIENCE A DV E N T U R E C I N E M A

Adventure Cinema is allowing you to experience your favourite movies like never before at their open-air screenings popping up at scenic spaces nationwide. Just think, the grounds of a palace could become your stage as you sing along to Mama Mia, or the walls of a mediaeval castle could add another layer of magic to Harry Potter.

PROPER CORN Hand-popped and perfectly seasoned, it’s a good thing this delicious snack comes in multipacks, for the sake of diplomacy, from £1.60. proper.co.uk

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

CINEMAS.indd 25

26/08/2022 16:42

A U T U M N

ART FAIR 14-16 OCT 2022 Fri: 1pm-8pm, Sat & Sun: 10am-4pm www.landmarkartscentre.org 020 8977 7558 Ferry Road, Teddington, TW11 9NN

Admission: £5, Concessions £4, U16s & LAC Friends FREE landmarkarts landmarkartfairs landmarkspringandautumnartfairs Image: Arati Devasher

Registered Charity No: 1047080

23rd - 25th SEPTEMBER 2022 SANDOWN PARK RACECOURSE , ESHER BUY TICKETS AT

WWW.CONTEMPORARYARTFAIRS .CO.UK

LANDMARK - CONTEMPORARY ART.indd 26

26/08/2022 16:43

CULTURE • FOCUS

BANNED BOOKS A focus on censorship at this month’s Rare Book Fair By EVE HERBERT

“The fair responds to contemporary conversations around censorship”

irsts, London’s Rare Book Fair, organised by the Antiquarian Booksellers' Association is back, with 120 international dealers exhibiting at the Saatchi Gallery from the 16th until the 18th of September. This year’s theme is ‘Banned Books’, inspired by the 100th anniversary of the publication of Ulysses - one of the most famous censored books in modern times - but also responds to contemporary conversations around censorship across literature, the media and online. Examples of banned books across the centuries including both fiction and non-fiction will be exhibited alongside other extraordinary books, manuscripts and ephemera. Among the censored books are important works by scientists who found themselves opposed by religious or state authorities. Sophia Rare Books will exhibit a first edition of Nicolaus Copernicus’ De revolutionibus orbium coelestium (On the Revolutions of the Heavenly Spheres), priced at £2 million. De revolutionibus (1543) radically changed humankind's perspective on its relationship with the universe, refuting the widely accepted Ptolemaic model and suggesting the heliocentric astronomical model. Considered heretical by the Catholic Church, the book was eventually included in the infamous Index Librorum Prohibitorum (Index of Prohibited Books) from 1616 to 1758. Another example of a great scientific discovery is a first edition of Albert Einstein’s Relativity: The Special and the General Theory (1916). Einstein’s work was banned in Nazi Germany, where his books were burnt in protest against his theories. Delving further into the sciences, and particularly focusing on geography and cartography, Daniel Crouch Rare Books will exhibit a selection of atlases

and travel books that were banned or prohibited from publication, such as Richard Hakluyt’s Principal Navigations (1599). The fair will also showcase illustrious examples of censored fiction. A first edition in Russian of Doctor Zhivago by Boris Pasternak will be exhibited along with a signed first edition of Salman Rushdie’s The Satanic Verses, a major work in the magical realist canon which ignited a furious controversy. More famous banned books, each one with their fascinating story, will be exhibited by Bas Books. Among them is a signed first edition of D. H. Lawrence’s Lady Chatterley’s Lover privately published in 1928, which became the subject of an obscenity trial and was then banned in five other countries. R A R E B O O K FA I R 16-18 September, Saatchi Gallery Duke of York's HQ, King's Road SW3 4RY firstslondon.com

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

RARE BOOKS.indd 27

26/08/2022 16:43

EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE WHEN YOU VISIT A LE CREUSET STORE • BESPOKE CUSTOMER SERVICE • EXCLUSIVE PRODUCT RANGES AND OFFERS • PRODUCT EXPERTISE AND AFTERCARE • FREE DELIVERY OVER £50 • LOYALTY REWARDS • FREE RECIPE CARDS CALL & DELIVER | PAY BY LINK | FREE UK DELIVERY WHEN YOU SPEND £50 OR MORE | CONTACT THE STORE FOR MORE DETAILS LE CREUSET FULHAM ROAD, 156 FULHAM ROAD, LONDON. SW10 9PR • TEL: 0207 3707509 • E-MAIL: FULHAMROAD.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM LE CREUSET HAMPSTEAD, 31 HEATH STREET, LONDON. NW3 6TR • TEL: 0207 4356109 • E-MAIL: HAMPSTEAD.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM LE CREUSET ISLINGTON, 137 UPPER STREET, LONDON. N1 1QP • TEL: 0207 2261595 • E-MAIL: ISLINGTON.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM LE CREUSET MARYLEBONE, 6 NEW CAVENDISH STREET, LONDON. W1G 8UH • TEL: 0207 4865404 • E-MAIL: MARYLEBONE.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM

LE CREUSET.indd 28

LE CREUSET MUSWELL HILL, 74 MUSWELL HILL BROADWAY, LONDON. N10 3RT • TEL: 0208 8834394 • E-MAIL: MUSWELLHILL.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM LE CREUSET NOTTING HILL, 54 LEDBURY RD., NOTTING HILL, LONDON. W11 2AJ • TEL: 0203 2200017 • E-MAIL: NOTTINGHILL.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM LE CREUSET ST. ALBANS, 27 MARKET PLACE, ST. ALBANS, HERTFORDSHIRE. AL3 5DL • TEL: 01727 850453 • E-MAIL: STALBANS.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM LE CREUSET WIMBLEDON, 4 CHURCH RD., WIMBLEDON VILLAGE, LONDON. SW19 5DL • TEL: 0208 9440624 • E-MAIL: WIMBLEDON.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM

26/08/2022 16:43

FOOD & DRINK

CLIMB ABOARD PEGGY JEAN RICHMOND

Following a shocking fire and two sinking incidents, the famous Jesus College Boat Race Barge has been lovingly restored by the Daisy Green Collection. Aboard ‘Peggy Jean’, diners can enjoy the laid-back Australian hospitality the group is known for, while overlooking panoramic views of the Thames. daisygreenfood.com

Food News 32 • Absolutely Eats Out 35 • New Jamie Oliver Recipes 38 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FOOD OPENER.indd 29

26/08/2022 16:43

WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news

TASTING NOTES

London’s food news and most exciting openings this month B y R AC H E L H O G G

Wine recommendations for the month

Clarendelle Bordeaux Rouge, Bordeaux  £19.80 This 2016 vintage is a colourful, fresh and fruity wine, with aromas of red fruit and blackcurrant alongside ﬂoral overtones reminiscent of violet. The elevated level of acidity gives it an admirable freshness and tremendous balance, without any hardness. hedonism.co.uk

Champagne Charlie, by Charles Heidsieck  £590 The prestigious Charles Heidsieck House, one of Champagne’s most admired producers, announced the newest edition of Champagne Charlie, a historic cuvée released to celebrate the bicentennial of the phenomenal founder, Charles-Camille Heidsieck. hedonism.co.uk

Cramele Recas Incanta Chardonnay, Romania  £7.99 This wine is ripe and well-rounded, with the sublime ﬂavours of melon, cherry and tropical fruits mingling with classic Chardonnay qualities of toasted oak and butter. Its fresh acidity makes it a delicious pairing for a creamy mushroom risotto. majestic.co.uk

Perfect Platter AQ UAV I T LO N D O N

Any fans of Scandinavian seafood are going to love Aquavit’s Nordic-inspired menu, put together by Head Chef Jonas Karlsson. The star of the show is the seafood platter, which offers a smorgasbord of oysters, mussels, dressed crab and yellowﬁn tuna tartare, accompanied by lemon, shallot vinegar and bloody mary ketchup. It's the perfect thing for summer sharing. aquavitrestaurants.com

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

FOOD NOTES.indd 30

26/08/2022 16:43

FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

SUMMER SIPPING The ﬂavours of the season

UNFUSSY FOOD RIDING HOUSE BLOOMSBURY

1 0 0 WA R D O U R S T

Bon Appetit

Taking the phrase ‘concrete jungle’ quite literally, at this pop-up, you can expect to find colourful, tropical cocktails to be enjoyed underneath an amazonian canopy. 100wardourst.com

Good things come to those who wait, and after a decade of development, the newest iteration of the Riding House Cafe is now open in Bloomsbury. Fans of the original site will be pleased to ﬁnd the same contemporary all-day menu, alongside a selection of exciting dishes exclusive to the new venue. ridinghouse.cafe

BOTTLE + RYE

Fancy visiting a French bistro, but don’t wish to board the Eurostar? Well, you're in luck. This Parisian-inspired wine bar and bistro has recently opened in the heart of Brixton Village. The menu is composed of dishes that play on French classics and an extensive selection of European wines. bottleandrye.com

EVE BAR Five is the magic number at this innovative cocktail bar; the menu has been concocted by five bartenders, using five spirits and is divided into five distinct sections. evebar.co.uk

T A S T E S

O F

TUSCANY PASTA EVANGELISTS

Frying Fancy T H E M AY FA I R C H I P PY

There’s nothing more quintessentially British than a fish and chips shop and the Mayfair Chippy prides itself on being the poshest in town. Diners can expect impeccably done classics, like Cornish fish coated in crispy beer batter, served with a side of crunchy, fluffy chips and proper mushy peas. mayfairchippy.com

SEARCY'S You can explore the continent with St Pancras Brasserie’s new limited-edition ‘Cocktail Passport’, a menu of drinks inspired by different destinations around Europe. stpancrasbysearcys.co.uk

Fans of Pasta Evangelist’s fresh artisan pasta are going to love their newest venture. They have teamed up with Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto, for a series of innovative pasta and cocktail masterclasses, each focusing on a region of Italy. ‘A Taste of Tuscany' is coming up in September, and tickets cost £50. pastaevangelists.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FOOD NOTES.indd 31

26/08/2022 21:28

BROOKLANDS MUSEU.indd 32

26/08/2022 16:43

FOOD & DRINK • REVIEW

ABSOLUTELY eats out…

“Slivers of crispy and golden skin infused with salty and citrussy intrigue”

CAIA

FOOD Fire-themed, creative, surprising

Innovative, exciting food cooked on an open ﬁre in Golborne Road

B y PENDLE HARTE

aia defies classification. It’s not linked to a specific nationality, and nor is it just a restaurant – it’s also a cocktail bar, with a basement full of records. Which isn’t to say that the food isn’t important, because it’s clearly the product of someone who has a serious vision. The menu offers minimal detail, so it’s not until the food actually arrives that we realise quite what a clever culinary feast

we’re in for. It’s the standard sharing plates scenario, and we’re advised to choose six or seven between two of us. First up is crispy chicken skin, preserved lemon and nori emulsion: three tiny slivers of crispy and golden skin infused with intense salty and citrussy intrigue. Dips of whipped feta, olive harissa and charred courgette with tahini come with grilled flatbreads – the courgette is unusual and delicious, a relation of baba ganoush with its burnt undertone but with a tahini smoothness and an entirely new

DECOR Dark and cosy, with lots of records

PRICE Small plates £4-£17 each

flavour. Then there are smoked jersey royals with borlotti beans, fava bean miso and parmesan, and it’s another unususal combination, all earthiness and woodsmoke. A dish simply named monkfish and sweetcorn might not sound especially exciting on paper, but is probably the standout for us, its crushed blackened sweetcorn contrasting with silky smooth monkfish creating a perfect mix of textured and taste. Rolled lamb belly with aubergine puree and grilled runner beans is as good as it sounds, while octopus with burnt pepper and nduja crumb is intense with umami. The arrival of every dish brings new innovation, and we spend a lot of time identifying flavours and enthusing. For pudding, peach, lemon granita and verbena tea is a light and refreshing palette cleanser and another clever flavour mix. At Caia there’s always a flavour that you’re almost able to identify but remains just out of reach, and that’s where the mystery lies, and what makes this chef such a genius.

VERDICT

CA I A

Next level culinary creativity

46 Golborne Road, W10 caia.london

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

FOOD REVIEW.indd 33

26/08/2022 16:43

Epsom Playhouse www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk Box office 01372 742555/742227

EPSOM PLAYHOUSE.indd 34

26/08/2022 16:43

FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

DRINKS CABINET What to drink this month By PENDLE HARTE

SPOTLIGHT

ONE DROP ONE GIN One Gin's brand new butterﬂy bottle has a unique twist –remove the labels and the bottle transforms into an elegant carafe, simply engraved with the word ‘WATER’ helping to reduce the number of bottles that never get recycled. 10% of their proﬁts go towards sustainable water programmes in the world’s poorest communities, via The One Foundation – and it's a delicious gin too, with a delicate hint of sage.

thespiritofone.com

ORGANIC ROSÉ DOMAINE BOUSQUET Argentina’s organic winery Domaine Bousquet has released the 2022 vintage of its Premium Rosé, one of the world's most sustainably produced rosés. A blend of Pinot Noir, Syrah, Pinot Gris and Viognier, the wine is unoaked to allow the fruit to shine through.

domainebousquet.com

RUM BLEND EQUIANO RUM CO The Equiano Rum Co. creates unique blends of rum from around the world. The world’s ﬁrst African and Caribbean rums is a neverbefore-seen blend of two cultures and two distilleries from two continents. They pledge 5% of global company proﬁts and $2 of every bottle sold through to ground level freedom and equality organisations.

equianorrum.com

DRINKS.indd 35

Behind the bar Aperol on a City rooftop

By EVE HERBERT

perol was created in 1919 in Paduaby the Barbieri brothers, specialists in liqueur production since 1880. They had the revolutionary idea of creating the lightest of liqueurs, an aperitif with an alcohol content of only 11%. Aperol is an infusion of precious herbs and roots in a perfectly balanced combination, its unique bitter-sweet taste deriving from a secret recipe that has remained unchanged over the course of time. One of the secrets for success is freshness: liqueur manufacturing is completed in one day and the day after the trucks are ready for shipment. Aperol Spritz is one of the most appreciated aperitifs in Italy and is the best-selling branded cocktail in the UK, in addition to being enjoyed as the 6th most popular cocktail globally. The serve is made by mixing Aperol with Prosecco and a splash of soda in a wine glass full of ice and a slice of orange. Light, sparkling and refreshing, it’s the ideal drink for starting the evening and for any social occasion. Overlooking St Paul's Catherdral, Madison's rooftop has transformed into an Ibiza-themed paradise with an inﬂux of plants, palms, and touches of boho chic furnishing, along with a dedicated Aperol bar. Choices range from the classic bittersweet Aperol Spritz, through to limited-edition inspired creations from Madison. A cold Aperol Spritz is the perfect accompaniment while relaxing in the sunshine on the iconic Madison rooftop.

madisonlondon.net

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

26/08/2022 16:44

One

POT Jamie Oliver’s new book keeps things simple with a single pot

Wo r d s J A M I E O L I V E R P h o t o g r a p h y D AV I D L O F T U S & R I C H A R D C L AT W O R T H Y

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

RECIPES.indd 36

26/08/2022 16:44

FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Fragrant Fish Stew

Pumpkin dumplings, coconut, cherry tomatoes & sugar snap peas Serves 2

Total time: 15 minutes

INGREDIENTS • Olive oil • 2 x 125g chunky white ﬁsh ﬁllets, skin on, scaled, pin-boned and from sustainable sources • 1 lime • 4 spring onions • 250g ripe mixed-colour cherry tomatoes • 2 heaped teaspoons Keralan or korma curry paste • 2 heaped teaspoons coconut cream • 450g pumpkin gnocchi • 160g sugar snap peas

Sausage Pappardelle

METHOD 1 Put ½ a tablespoon of olive oil in a 30cm non-stick frying pan on a medium-high heat, then place the fish skin side down to one side of the pan and finely grate over the lime zest. Trim the spring onions, chop the white parts into 2cm lengths and add to the pan with the tomatoes, halving any larger ones. As soon as the fish skin is golden and crispy, move the half-cooked fish to your board. Boil the kettle. 2 Stir the curry paste into the pan for 1 minute, then squeeze in half the lime juice and add the coconut cream and gnocchi. Pour in 300ml of boiling kettle water, bring back to the boil, then sprinkle in the sugar snaps. Sit the fish fillets on top, skin side up, cover the pan, and cook for 4 minutes. Finely slice the green spring onion tops and scatter over, then serve with lime wedges, for squeezing over.

PER SERVING Energy 565kcal • Fat 12.2g • Sat fat 4.6g • Protein 37.9g • Carbs 72.8g • Sugars 20.6g • Salt 2.7g • Fibre 10.8g

Fennel seeds, Chianti, garlic, tomato & parsley Serves 1

Total time: 14 minutes

INGREDIENTS • 125g fresh lasagne sheets • 1 clove of garlic • ½ a bunch of ﬂat-leaf parsley • 15g of olive oil • 1 higher-welfare pork or veggie sausage • 1 teaspoon fennel seeds • Chianti or other Italian red wine • 200ml passata • Parmesan cheese, for grating • Optional: extra virgin olive oil

METHOD Boil the kettle. Cut the lasagne sheets lengthways into 3cm strips 1

to make pappardelle. Peel and ﬁnely slice the garlic. Finely chop the top leafy half of the parsley, then the stalks, keeping them separate. Put a 28cm frying pan on a high heat. 2 Once hot, put a little drizzle of olive oil into the pan, then squeeze the sausagemeat out of the skin into the pan, breaking it up with your spoon (if using a veggie sausage, crumble or slice). Fry and stir for 2 minutes, then add the garlic, parsley stalks and fennel seeds. Once lightly golden, add a good splash of red wine, let it cook away, then add the passata and scatter the pasta into the pan. Carefully pour in enough boiling kettle water to just cover the pasta – about 300ml. Let it bubble away for 4 minutes, or until the pasta has absorbed most of the water and you’ve got a nice rich sauce, stirring regularly and loosening with an extra splash of water, if needed. Turn the heat of, stir in the parsley leaves, then season to perfection. Finish with a grating of Parmesan and a kiss of extra virgin olive oil, if you like. PER SERVING Energy 464kcal • Fat 13.8g • Sat fat 4.1g • Protein 20.1g • Carbs 55.4g • Sugars 11g • Salt 1.1g • Fibre 5g

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

RECIPES.indd 37

26/08/2022 16:44

FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Sweet Potato Chilli Black beans, chipotle, cumin, coriander & feta Serves 12

Prep: 12 minutes Cook: 2 hours

INGREDIENTS • 6 sweet potatoes (250g each) • Olive oil • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds • 1 x 95g jar of chipotle chilli paste • 500g fresh or frozen chopped mixed onion, carrot & celery • ½ a bunch of coriander (15g) • 3 x 400g tins of black beans • 3 x 400g tins of quality plum tomatoes • 60g feta cheese

METHOD 1 Preheat the oven to 180°C. Put a large deep casserole pan on a medium-high heat. Peel the sweet potatoes, placing them in the pan as you go. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and fry for 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until starting to get golden. Push to one side, add the cumin, let it sizzle, then spoon in the jar of chipotle chilli paste and add 2 jars’ worth of water. Tip in the chopped mixed veg, ﬁnely chop and add the coriander stalks, reserving the leaves, then bake for 1 hour. 2 Remove from the oven and add the beans, juice and all, then the tomatoes, scrunching them in through clean hands, along with 1 tin’s worth of water. Stir well, then roast for another hour, or until the sweet potatoes are tender. Season to perfection, then – if enjoying straight away – crumble over the feta and tear over the coriander leaves, to serve. Enjoy as is, batching up extra portions to stash in the fridge or freezer for future meals.

PER SERVING Energy 229kcal • Fat 3.4g • Sat fat 1g • Protein 8.8g • Carbs 38.8g • Sugars 13g • Salt 0.6g • Fibre 12g

ONE by JAMIE OLIVER is published by PENGUIN MICHAEL JOSEPH © JAMIE OLIVER ENTERPRISES LIMITED (2022 ONE). PHOTOGRAPHY: © DAVID LOFTUS & RICHARD CLATWORTHY, 2022

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

RECIPES.indd 38

26/08/2022 16:44

free installation on kitchens & wardrobes Save up to £5K for a limited time only

CMY

Showrooms at Chelsea and Wimbledon Village

DAY TRUE - DAS KUCHEN STUDIO.indd 39

Tel 0207 788 9229

daytrue.com

26/08/2022 16:44

Untitled-7 FREE FP.indd PEOPLE.indd 11 40

14/12/20213:30 17:04 2020-12-15 26/08/2022 16:44 PM

FA S H I O N

LAID-BACK GLAMOUR HELLESSY

Sylvie Millstein launched Hellessy in 2012 from her Soho studio, and has since captivated women with her signature designs. Her brand creates timeless pieces that can be worn over and over again, hellessy.com

The Shoot Stella McCartney 44 • Bold & Beautiful Hoop Earrings 50 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FASHION OPENER.indd 41

26/08/2022 16:44

L IofN E S

beauty Cool new shapes from Stella McCartney S T E L L A M C C A R T N E Y. C O M

SHOOT.indd 42

26/08/2022 16:44

SHOOT.indd 43

26/08/2022 16:44

SHOOT.indd 44

26/08/2022 16:44

SHOOT.indd 45

26/08/2022 16:44

SHOOT.indd 46

26/08/2022 16:44

Located on Richmond Hill for 38 years, Anna Boutique provides a handpicked range of unique womenswear, reflecting Anna’s experience as a stylist and passion for Italian design and use of colour. Moments away from Richmond Park and the River Thames, the boutique’s light and airy space filled with colour will not fail to inspire. Anna has created a friendly (and always stylish) atmosphere which continues to bring customers from all over the world to shop in Anna Boutique. 44 Hill Rise, Richmond | TW10 6UB | 0208 948 0199 annaboutiquerichmond

ANNAS BOUTIQUE -_SEPTEMBER 2022_ABSOLUTELY LONDON.indd 47

26/08/2022 16:17

FASHION • JEWELLERY

Statement hoops When it comes to earrings, we say go big or go home B y R AC H E L H O G G

ANNOUSHKA

MATEO

LYLIE

Bamboo Gold Hoop Earrings, £2,500 annoushka.com

Small Dot Gold Malachite Hoop Earrings, £605 net-a-porter.com

The Wicklow Celtic Hoops, £1,850 lylies.com

GOLD & HONEY

MUSA BY BOBBIE

CHLOÉ

Bamboo Hoops in Translucent Blue, £104 wolfandbadger.com

Emerald, Ruby & Gold-Filled Hoop Earrings, £545 matchesfashion.com

Jemma Gold-Tone Sodalite Earrings, £430 net-a-porter.com

MONICA VINADER

RACHEL JACKSON

MISSOMA

Deia Chunky Medium Hoop Earrings, £150 monicavinader.com

Electric Goddess Blue Topaz Large Gold Hoops, £195 racheljacksonlondon.com

Savi Dome Medium Gemstone Hoop Earrings, £135 uk.missoma.com

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

JEWELLERY.indd 48

26/08/2022 16:45

MICHAEL PLATT -.indd 49

26/08/2022 16:45

CLEVELAND CLINIC.indd 50

26/08/2022 16:45

HEALTH & BEAUTY

BE AUT Y SLE EP SLIP X ALICE + OLIVIA You’ll have the most luxurious sleep of your life thanks to this whimsical collaboration between Slip Silk and Alice + Olivia. Some of the beauty brand’s multi-award-winning products, including the eye mask, a hair wrap, scrunchies, and a pillowcase, have been decked out in the designer's 'Spring Paisley' print, from £39. slipsilkpillowcase.co.uk

Beauty Notes 55 • Vitamin C Products 57 • Wylder Yoga Retreat 61 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

HandB OPENER.indd 51

26/08/2022 16:45

EXPERT IN THE NATURAL LOOK Doctor Nyla is a skin specialist, trusted by TV personalities, ZHOO NQRZQ FHOHEULW\ Ɠ JXUHV DQG VRPH RI %ULWDLQōV PRVW IDPLOLDU IDFHV LQ WKH PHGLD LQGXVWU\ )RXQGHU DQG 0HGLFDO 'LUHFWRU RI 'RFWRU 1\OD 0HGLVSD &KHVKLUH LV D KLJKO\ UHVSHFWHG DQG PXFK VRXJKW DIWHU FRVPHWLF 'HUPDWRORJ\ *3 DQG LV FRQVLGHUHG RQH RI WKH WRS FRVPHWLF GRFWRUV LQ WKH FRXQWU\ +DYLQJ SUDFWLVHG PHGLFLQH IRU RYHU \HDUV DQG KDYLQJ SHUVRQDOO\ GHOLYHUHG RYHU WUHDWPHQWV ZLWK WUXO\ H[FHSWLRQDO UHVXOWV VKH KDV JDLQHG WKH DGPLUDWLRQ RI WKH LQGXVWU\

DR NAYLA DPS.indd 52

26/08/2022 16:45

M E D I S PA

0 $< )$ , 5

TRANSFORMATION FACELIFTTM

7KH 7UDQVIRUPDWLRQ )DFHOLIWTM LV D EHVSRNH WUHDWPHQW IURP 'RFWRU 1\OD XQLTXH WR KHU FOLQLFV DQG FRPELQLQJ D %HIRUH

After

%HIRUH

After

variety of incredible antiDJHLQJ WUHDWPHQWV WR PDNH you look and feel 10 years \RXQJHU LQ WKH VSDFH RI RQO\ VL[ ZHHNV 7KH QH[W JHQHUDWLRQ PXOWLSODWIRUP WUDQVIRUPDWLRQDO IDFLDO RIIHUHG H[FOXVLYHO\ DW 'U 1\OD 7KLV WUHDWPHQW RIIHUV QRQ VXUJLFDO VNLQ WLJKWHQLQJ DQG OLIWLQJ WR WUHDW DOO DQWL DJHLQJ FRQFHUQV Ŋ IURP WH[WXUHG dull skin, to deep wrinkles DQG ORVV RI OD[LW\

7KH WUHDWPHQW SURJUDPPH FDQ FRPELQH D QXPEHU RI VXSHU WHFKQRORJLHV GHSHQGDQW XSRQ \RXU VSHFLƓ F FRQFHUQV VXFK DV 8OWKHUDS\ ([LOLV (OLWH UDGLR IUHTXHQF\ 0RUSKHXV VNLQ QHHGOLQJ DV ZHOO DV WZHDNLQJ ZLWK LQMHFWDEOH HQKDQFHPHQWV ZKHUH QHFHVVDU\ 7R JLYH LPPHGLDWH ORQJ WHUP UHVXOWV ZLWK PLQLPDO GRZQWLPH 7KH VNLQ ZLOO EHJLQ WR IHHO VPRRWKHU DQG WLJKWHU DIWHU WKH Ɠ UVW WUHDWPHQW DQG UHVXOWV ZLOO FRQWLQXH WR LPSURYH IRU XS WR VL[ PRQWKV

WHY CHOOSE DR NYLA MEDISPA ? • :LQQHU RI WKH SUHVWLJLRXV ŏ%7/ )DFH RI WKH \HDUŐ DZDUG • 7KH ODUJHVW 6NLQ 7LJKWHQLQJ FOLQLF LQ WKH 8QLWHG .LQJGRP • 7KH ODUJHVW 8OWUDFHO &OLQLF RXWVLGH RI /RQGRQ • 7KH RQO\ 'LDPRQG 3UHPLHUH &RROVFXOSWLQJ FOLQLF RXWVLGH /RQGRQ DQG WKH VHFRQG ODUJHVW &RROVFXOSWLQJ FOLQLF LQ (XURSH • ŏ&OLQLF RI WKH \HDU Ő DW WKH VDIHW\ LQ %HDXW\ $ZDUGV

32 Dover Street, Mayfair, London W1S 4NE follow us on

@doctornyla

0162 552 3307 | 0800 009 6661 www.doctornyla.com UK CLINIC OF THE YEAR 2019/20 SAFETY IN BEAUTY AWARDS

DR NAYLA DPS.indd 53

26/08/2022 16:45

54 MEDISPA.indd 1 Untitled-4 1

26/08/2022 21/04/2021 17:35 25/01/2022 16:45 12:28

HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in luxury makeup and skincare B y R AC H E L H O G G

Plant

EDITOR’S PICK

POWER

DRINK IN HAND

R E V I V E C O L L AG E N

Some great news for vegans, they no longer need to miss out on collagen’s many health benefits. Leading liquid collagen brand, Revive Collagen, has developed the world’s first clinically proven vegan liquid collagen substitute, which comes in handy ready-to-drink flavoured sachets, from £32.30.

This month we stopped by Beauty Club London for some pampering

revivecollagen.com

Exfoliating Enzymes S I S L E Y PA R I S

Who doesn’t love a face mask, whether it be sheet, clay or powder? You read that right, Sisley’s new ‘Efoliating Enzyme’ mask is a fine powder texture that becomes a rich cream upon contact with water. This innovative new product contains natural fruit enzymes that work to gently exfoliate and illuminate your skin, £90. sisley-paris.com

MI NDFUL MINIS R E N S K I N CA R E

Between the sun, the sand and the sea, your skin often needs extra attention on holiday. Don’t let yourself be limited by a clear plastic bag, with Ren’s new range you won’t have to abandon your skincare regime at security. All your favourite formulas are now available in easily transportable travel sizes, from £10.

T R E AT M E N T

anicures and cocktails are two of my go-to’s when I’m in dire need of a pamper. So naturally, when I heard there was a place where I could enjoy both of these things at the same time, I had to try it for myself. I was given the chance to pop by Paint Nails, a literal ‘nail bar’ that is home to experts in the art of nail design and cocktailmaking. Paint Nails is based inside Beauty Club London, a glamorous salon that somehow has the energy of a group of girls getting ready to go out. Except they happen to be doing so in an exceptionally well-decorated apartment. I was off on holiday the next week so made my manicure and cocktail decisions accordingly. On my nails, I opted for a classic French gel manicure; chic enough to go with everything and hardy enough to survive anything. For my drink I chose a summery Mojito, to get me in the mood for the upcoming beach days. As the lovely nail technician began working, all my stress melted away. For a blissful 45 minutes, my only concern in the world was making sure I didn’t chip my nails as I swapped my drink over to the other hand. Needless to say, I never wanted to leave. BEAUTY CLUB LONDON 28 Market Place, London W1W 8AW

beautyclublondon.co.uk

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

BEAUTY NOTES.indd 55

26/08/2022 16:45

... Where dreams are conceived Services

Treatments

» 7 days week (weekend/ evening)

» Egg Freezing

» Cutting edge, supported by AI

» Egg Donation (no waiting list)

» One Stop Clinic

» Fertility Wellness Check (MOT)

» Free virtual mini- consultaion

» IVF Treatment » Genetic Testing of Embryos » Share Motherhood (LGBTQ+ Friendly)

02082074115 |

www.ivflondon.co.uk | info@ivflondon.co.uk

IVF LONDON_SEPTEMBER 2022_ABSOLUTELY LONDON.indd 56

26/08/2022 16:17

HEALTH & BEAUTY • TREND

CLINIQUE Fresh Pressed™ Daily Booster, £60 clinique.co.uk

PAULA’S CHOICE C15 Super Booster, £49 paulaschoice.co.uk

ROC Revive + Glow Night Serum Capsules, £35.99 rocskincare.co.uk

OSKIA Super-C Smart Nutrient Beauty Capsules, £68 oskiaskincare.com

MURAD Rapid Dark Spot Correcting Serum, £75 murad.co.uk

DROP OF SUNSHINE

REN Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic, £28 renskincare.com

EDITOR’S PICK

Get your skin a daily dose of Vitamin C

GLOW RECIPE Guava Vitamin C+ Ferulic Dark Spot Serum, £41 cultbeauty.co.uk

B y R AC H E L H O G G

DR. DENNIS GROSS Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel, from £19 spacenk.com

OLE HENRIKSEN Banana Bright™ + Eye Créme, £35 boots.com

SUNDAY RILEY CEO Glow Vitamin C+ Turmeric Face Oil, £34 uk.sundayriley.com

B SLO T E LY. A BA SO UL TU E LY m aLgOaNzD i nOeNs

BEAUTY PRODUCTS.indd 57

26/08/2022 16:51

800IC INDOOR CYCLE

ABLON0922

LIST PRICE £1,599

OUR PRICE £799

BRING STUDIO CLASSES HOME

Get a JRNY™ membership FREE for 12 months with the 800IC The JRNY™ app* suggests personalised trainer-led videos, offers real-time virtual coaching, and streams global routes to deliver workouts you’ll keep coming back to!

Immerse yourself in the world of virtual and trainer-led studio classes from the comfort of your own home with your very own racer bike! Our unbeatable range includes the exclusive Schwinn 800IC Indoor Cycle, offering 100 micro adjustable resistance levels, a race-style seat and handlebar setup, and connection to some of your favourite fitness apps, including Peloton*, Zwift™* and JRNY™*, for a cycling experience that’s simply hard to beat. Head to your nearest Fitness Superstore today to find your favourite racer bike!

Try Before You Buy

Expert In-Store Advice

Never Beaten on Price

0% Finance Available †

Visit fitness-superstore.co.uk or call 01604 673000 Code expires 9th October 2022. Prices may vary, see website for current price. † Subject to age and status. *Subscription required.

FITNESS SUPERSTO.indd 58

26/08/2022 16:51

HEALTH & BEAUTY • FITNESS

TOP

PICKS Misfits Protein Bars

FITNESS NOTES By RACHEL HOGG

SPECULOOS This bar has a delicious caramel flavour with a hint of cinnamon. It’s their best-seller for a reason but whatever you do, don’t call it biscoff.

COOKIES & CREAM You can’t go wrong with this classic combo. Expect a gooey caramel layer, chewy cookie crumble pieces and velvety white chocolate.

FEEL THE BURN These high-intensity ﬁtness classes are sure to get pulses racing

B I R T H DAY C A K E A birthday party in a bite, this bar is topped with a sweet jammy filling, coated in vegan white chocolate and finished with rainbow sprinkles.  Their bars may taste naughty, but they are packed full of plant-based goodness, £24 for a box of twelve. misfits.health

KXU WELLNESS CLUB

C I R C UI T S O C IET Y

SW E AT BY BXR

 At the recently opened Circuit Society, you’ll ﬁnd a workout designed to keep your body on its toes. During each 45-minute circuit class, you will rotate through six stations, each an equal mixture of cardio and High-Intensity Resistance Training. No two classes may ever be the same, but one thing is for sure, you’ll always get results. circuitsociety.ﬁt

 The 'Climb to the Beat' class is an introduction to the VersaClimber, a unique machine developed exclusively by BXR. Designed to mimic the natural climbing motion, it will engage all your major muscle groups in a single motion. It’s an intense training program that will take it easy on your joints but won’t necessarily take it easy on you. bxrlondon.com

K XU  Wellness club KXU has developed a new class concept centred around functional movement. Going into an Evolve class, you should prepare yourself to do a strenuous series of bodyweight and weighted workouts, interspersed with elements of stretch and cardio. You’ll get a full-body workout, but you may have to submerge yourself in an ice bath afterwards. kxu.co.uk

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

FITNESS NOTES.indd 59

26/08/2022 16:51

BODY Y & SOUL Wylder Retreats is planning an Ibizan escape this autumn Wo r d s E V E H E R B E R T

oga teacher Charlotte Townend and her team of local experts are hosting a four-night escape in Ibiza this October. Charlotte is a private yoga teacher based between London and Ibiza. With four years of experience, she teaches a variety of styles ranging from vinyasa and yin to pre and post-natal yoga. Her retreats were initially organised exclusively for her clients, but due to popular demand, she is opening them up to a wider audience. The wellness retreat supports all local professionals from teachers to healers, therapists and chefs. Set in the beautiful and sleepy village of San Miguel, Can Terra houses six suites, each with bespoke bathrooms and private access to its own garden space or terrace. There is also a large light-filled lounge area

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

YOGA RETREAT.indd 60

26/08/2022 21:28

HEALTH & BEAUTY • WELLBEING

with a wood-burning fireplace and large, comfortable sofas. From the main living area, guests have access to a terrace and a large pool area. The yoga and pilates classes will take place on the yoga platform situated in the pine forest behind the house. Yoga classes with Charlotte will vary in styles between energising Vinyasa and slow, restorative Yin. Pilates classes will be led by Pilar, owner of pilates studio The Loft Ibiza. Guests will enjoy a sound healing session one evening with local therapist Elena Teixidor and there will also be hiking and paddleboarding on offer. Wylder has partnered up with chefs La Grande Bouffe, who will prepare two plant-based meals each day. Hannah

Lederer and her team create unique dining experiences with top-level cuisine inspired by the natural produce and flavours of Ibiza. Tea, coffee, juices and snacks will be available throughout the day. A Zero Waste cooking workshop will be led by Nerea Hoyos, a private chef and daytime chef at the Terra Masia Farm. Nerea will share her knowledge and tips on cooking with vegetables sustainably, whilst guests prepare dinner to enjoy after. One evening there will be an openair movie night at the house, hosted by Cinema Paradiso Ibiza, with comfortable bean bags and a popcorn machine. Each guest will be given a goodie bag, including gifts from brands that

have collaborated with Wylder. Optional extras for the retreat include group paddleboarding and treatments (facials, nails, beauty & massages) brought to you by the island’s best therapists. Prices include four nights at Can Terra, five yoga classes, two pilates classes, hiking, sound healing, plant-based meals, open air movie night, zero waste cooking workshop, goodie bags, transfers. Optional group paddle boarding and treatments to be paid separately. W Y L D E R R E T R E AT S 1 – 5 October 2022 Can Terra, San Miguel, Ibiza wylderretreats.net

“Set in the beautiful and sleepy village of San Miguel” EXPERIENCE A RELAXING FACIAL TREATMENT

“ABOREMP ET LABOR SOLO VOLOREHENDA EIUNT, MAXIMINCI TEM QUAM VOLUT ET MOLUPTAQUODI” CAN TERRA'S LOUNGE AREA

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

YOGA RETREAT.indd 61

26/08/2022 16:51

DF CLINIC.indd 62

26/08/2022 16:51

ABSOLUTELY • PARTNERSHIP

BEFORE

AFTER

THE LEGEND M2 NON-SURGICAL FACELIFT PROGRAMME

also highly anti-inflammatory so is a also a go-to treatment for persistent blemishes.

HYDRATING AND NOURISHING Profhilo restores post-summer hydration and its longer-term biorevitalisation properties mean that it can also play a role your Autumn rejuvenation programme. Another popular choice is the WOW facial which uses an innovative microneedling device to combine the collagen-induction with an infusion of amino acids, vitamins and hyaluronic acid – also called the Hollywood Cocktail. The treatments are preceded by a gentle fruit acid peel to help you achieve mirror-glass smooth skin.

SMOOTHING SKIN TEXTURE

TO P

TIPS

F OR

END-OF-SUMMER SKIN REHAB Dr Kim describes treatments that can help your skin recover from a summer well spent

he final weeks of summer are here, and you may be noticing the effects of too much sun, salt and cocktails on your skin. Revitalising and hydrating treatments are most likely top of your agenda, but don’t forget it’s time to start planning your Winter rejuvenation plan. The less sunny months are the ideal time to consider more advanced treatments that will lead to longer term tightening and toning.

SKIN CARE A good quality vitamin C serum first thing and peptide regenerating creams at night are a good start but if you want to switch it up, vitamin C combined with vitamin E and

Skin produces extra oil to protect against wind and heat making your pores more noticeable. Microablative treatments tighten and resurface the skin but wait until your tan has faded before heading in for laser or IPL. New generation hybrid RF microneedling treatments (Legend M2 or Lipofirm MED non-surgical facelifts) combine RF microneedling with galvanic current to improve results and minimise recovery (and discomfort). These treatments lead to instantaneous tightening and reduction of the appearance of pores and fine lines, as well as firming and improving tone and texture.

ferulic acid has been shown to be 85% more effective at protecting your skin from the effects of UV and pollution, and niacinamide can reduce the DNA damage that leads to skin cancer. It is also a good time to restart retinol if you take a break over summer as results take 6 to 12 weeks to become noticeable.

DEEP CLEANSING Breakouts are common during hot weather and a deep cleansing treatment will help decongest your skin. The Geneo 4-in-1 Superfacial is a favourite on the Forbes Summer Facial menu as it combines deep exfoliation with oxygenation and infusion of bespoke ingredients to leave you with clear, glowing complexion. Lipofirm FaceLifts combine radiofrequency and dynamic muscle activation for lifting and tightening and it is

D R K I M P R E S C OT T Dr Kim Prescott consults in Aesthetic and Lifestyle medicine at the Penrose Clinic as well as lecturing, training and working in clinical research. If you have any questions you are welcome to email her at drkim@psmd.co.uk. Penrosemd.co.uk Drkpclinic.co.uk @dr.kimprescott @penroseclinic

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

ADV PSMD SKIN SCIENCE.indd 63

26/08/2022 16:51

THE EYE PLACE.indd 64

26/08/2022 16:51

ABSOLUTELY • PARTNERSHIP

“Virgin Active prides itself on being a place where every ﬁtness ability is welcome”

BUILD STRENGTH WITH REFORMER PILATES

GET IN FIGHTING SHAPE IN A BOXING CLASS

ACTIVE FOR ALL

More than just a gym, Virgin Active offers members all over wellness

t Virgin Active, they are firm believers in doing whatever gets you moving, it all counts. With clubs all around London, from Canary Wharf to Wimbledon, all offering a wide range of exercise experiences for both the body and mind, you’ll be sure to find something you love. Virgin Active prides itself on being a place where everyone and every fitness ability is welcome. Whoever you are, whatever your fitness level, the team at Virgin Active are here for you. If you are keen to give it a go but not sure where to start, you could try joining a One Series class. Virgin Active offers the best classes in the best spaces, including Yoga, Pilates, Cycle, Boxing and Strength & Conditioning. It doesn't matter if you’re looking to just learn the basics, refresh your

memory on the moves, or push yourself to your limit, during each class you’ll be able to move at your own pace. Whether you prefer to restore your sense of calm in a yoga class, find alignment and build core strength on the Reformer bed, or move to the groove in a cycle class, it all counts. If you love fitness already but want to reach new heights, you can book a free 45-minute Kickstart session with one of their top-notch Personal Trainers. One of their industry-qualified fitness experts will be with you every step of the way, to help build healthy habits, work towards your goals and find new motivation. Each an expert in their area, the Virgin Activists love what they do and love helping you feel good. They will give you all the advice and support you'll need throughout your fitness journey. With their help, you could achieve consistency and make long-term lifestyle changes.

The teams at Virgin Active love to inspire their members to Live Happily Ever Active, but they are all about relaxation and rest days too. So if you’re more of a take a dip in the pool, then chill out in the sauna type person, you’ll find some of the best pools and spas in the city across their locations. Each of their clubs is different, and with every type of activity from swimming to boxing to gentle jacuzzi bubbling, you’ll be sure to find the perfect fit for you. V I R G I N AC T I V E Join now and get 50% off your first 3 months*, to find your nearest club visit virginactive.co.uk. *(T&Cs apply. Offer ends 30/9/2022). ACHIEVE YOUR FITNESS GOALS WITH PERSONAL TRAINING

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

VIRGIN ACTIVE.indd 65

26/08/2022 16:51

Create Your Perfect Home Gym

Let us be your expert designer to help make YOUR GY and feel so good that you WANT to go back to all the

Let us be your expert designer to help make YOUR GYM look Gym Design & Supply and feel so good that you WANT to go back to all thegives time! you 20 years’ of experience with an exclusive personal service, offering a wide range of options as well as an online price match guarantee

Contact us now for a FREE CONSULTATION if you quote “Surrey Homes” in your enquiry! 07976 237907 @GymDesignSupply #GymDesignSupply hello@gymdesignsupply.com

www.gymdesignsupply.com

GymDesignSupplyWT241.indd 1

Gym Design & Supply offers 20 years’ of experience with an exclusive personal service and a wide range of options helping you create your dream gym space. We will come and meet you to discuss your options as well as measure up the space you have to make sure it all ﬁts all the equipment you need and looks great! •

Health and ﬁtness goals discussed

•

Private Homes

•

Best equipment chosen for your needs and budget

•

Property Developments

•

Gym tailored to the look and feel you want

•

Hotels

•

Installed over 100 gyms and spas including:

•

Schools, Colleges and Universities.

01483 904073 | @GymDesignSupply | #GymDesignSupply hello@gymdesignsupply.com | www.gymdesignsupply.com GYM DESIGN SUP.indd 66

26/08/2022 16:51

We will co your optio space yo the equip

• Health a • Best eq your nee • Gym tai • Installed Private H Property Hotels Schools

HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

garden contains plants selected not only for their aesthetic appeal but for scent, touch, taste and even sound, helping those with dementia to connect with the outside space.

TECHNOLOGICALLY ADVANCED Loveday Abbey Road is one of the most innovative care homes in the UK. From sleep and medicine to care planning and pain management, every aspect of care has been analysed and evaluated. Loveday invests in cutting-edge research and the best technology has been discreetly implemented. Electronic planning records enable staff to devote more time to care, while a Paincheck App uses facial analysis and AI to assess pain levels. Medicine management software enables medication to be taken when needed, and the latest PCR machines provide rapid test results. Circadian lighting systems automatically adjust to mimic the natural environment, and motion sensors trigger soft lighting to guide members at night.

INNOVATIVE

CARE

Loveday & Co, London’s only private member’s club for seniors, is opening its latest home in Abbey Road, and it’s the most luxurious yet

BEAUTIFUL LOCATIONS There are further Loveday properties in Kensington and Chelsea and Loveday Notting Hill is scheduled to open later this year.

FLEXIBLE RANGE OF HEALTH & LIFESTYLE SERVICES For those not quite ready to make the move into a care home, there is The Loveday Day Club, Loveday at Home and Recover at Loveday - all thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of those living with dementia, their families and carers.

W o r d s C A S P A R D AV I D

BESPOKE CARE Loveday offers tailored, compassionate care and world-class hospitality for those with a wide range of needs, from dementia and Parkinson’s to more complex nursing needs or respite care. Staff provide holistic, discrete care, and are passionately devoted to enhancing the lives of members and their families.

LUXURY LIVING Loveday Abbey Road is superbly positioned in the heart of St John’s Wood. The brandnew, contemporary 26-suite home has a sense of modern elegance, replete with the ultimate in safety features and care technology, all the while staying true to the history and cosy appeal of this elegant

property and its beautiful locale. Awardwinning chefs serve delicious, nutritious meals in the spacious restaurant and private dining room, using fresh, seasonal produce. There is a screening and library room, a luxurious spa and beauty salon, and a dedicated studio and activities room as well as bespoke concierge services and an innovative activities curriculum, from trips to the opera and galleries to musical performances, art workshops and fitness classes.

WORLD-CLASS SENSORY GARDEN One of Loveday Abbey Road’s most special features is its world-class sensory garden. Carefully researched and designed, the

LOV E DAY & C O To book a tour or to secure one of the suites at Loveday Abbey Road call 020 3993 3764 or email info@lovedayandco.com Loveday Abbey Road, 41 Abbey Road, NW8 0AA lovedayandco.com

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

Loveday.indd 67

26/08/2022 16:51

Advanced Skin & Body Aesthetics Clinic Definition Skin Aesthetics have taken the time to extensively research their chosen brands and latest advanced technology and kept this in mind throughout the whole process. They have created a portfolio of first class skincare, advanced medically proven devices and treatments from the industry to produce natural, long lasting results in anti-ageing and problem skin resolution. 7 High St, Cheam, Sutton SM3 8RQ info@definitionskinaesthetics.co.uk www.definitionaesthetics.co.uk 020 3489 8010 DEFINITION_SKIN_AESTHETICS_HP_ABS_AUG22.indd 1

28/07/2022 12:46

Camberwell Lodge Care & Nursing Home Luxury residential and dementia care home Our care is the kind we’d all want our loved ones to receive. Camberwell Lodge Care & Nursing Home provides the highest standards of familyled nursing, residential and dementia care. Our state-of-the-art home is luxurious and beautifully furnished, whilst retaining a warm family atmosphere that makes Camberwell Lodge feel extra special. • 98 Spacious en-suite bedrooms • Vista Bar & Roofterrace garden • Sociable lounge and dining areas • Wellness Suite • Daily fine dining and hospitality suite • Tailored meaningful activities To find out more about life at Camberwell Lodge Care & Nursing Home contact Senior Customer Relations Manager Nina Rogers on 07549 035 654 or email nina.rogers@countrycourtcare.com

020 4579 2199 Picton Street, Camberwell, London, SE5 7QH

www.countrycourtcare.com

DEFINITION - COUNTRY CARE.indd 68

26/08/2022 16:51

HEALTH & BEAUTY • TREND

COCHINE Frangipani & Neroli eau de parfum 50ml, £110 cochine.co.uk

CREED Wind Flowers, 75ml, £260 creedfragrances.co.uk

NARCISO RODRIGUEZ Musc Noir Rose Eau de Parfum, 100ml, £101.50 johnlewis.com

ART DE PARFUM CARRIE ELIZABETH

Kimono Vert 50ml, £114 artdeparfum.com

Aura, 50ml, £65 carrieelizabeth.co.uk

DOLCE & GABBANA

ISSEY MIYAKE

Dolce Rose eau de toilette 50ml, £67 johnlewis.com

FABULOUS FLORALS BULGARI Rose Goldea Blossom Delight 75ml, £93 bulgari.com

All the loveliest scents for the season DIPTYQUE Do Son limited edition 100ml, £130 diptyqueparis.com

L'Eau d'Issey Rose & Rose 90ml, £84 johnlewis.com

EDITOR’S PICK

LA MAISON VALMONT Just Bloom 100ml, £230 lamaisonvalmont.com

JO MALONE LONDON Silk Blossom cologne 100ml, £108 jomalone.co.uk

SERGE LUTENS La fille de Berlin 50ml, £110 sergelutens.com

PARFUMS DE MARLY Greenley 125ml, £215 parfums-de-marley.com

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

FLORAL FRAGRANCE.indd 69

26/08/2022 16:52

Some furniture is made for the here and now. Some is built to stand the test of time. At Neptune, we believe that the best can do both. Good design never grows old.

FREE GIFT CARD worth up to £2,000 with home and kitchen design projects this September

Chiswick, 020 3814 1220 Fulham, 020 7371 9997 Wimbledon, 020 3362 8240 Ask in store for full details, or visit neptune.com/designoffer

NEPTUNE.indd 70 AbsolutelyLondon_Chiswick Fulham Wimbledon_LIVING PROMO_210x297_SEP22.indd 1

26/08/2022 03/08/2022 16:52 14:28

INTERIORS

P ER F EC T P ENDANTS DAV I D H U N T L I G H T S

Introducing, 'Scallop' a two-tone, hand-finished pendant with a scallop edged detail in a pretty palette of contrasting colours. Available to bespoke using our tailored paint palette, the fitting shown here has a Woad outer and a Tusk edge and inner, £390. davidhuntlighting.co.uk

THE SPECIAL EDITION SCALLOP PENDANT, BY DAVID HUNT LIGHTING, IN WOAD & TUSK. £390 INCLUDING VAT. DAVIDHUNTLIGHTING.CO.UK

Interior Inspirations 72 • Battersea Power Station 76 • Wood-Burning Stoves 97 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

INTERIORS OPENER.indd 71

26/08/2022 16:52

INTERIORS N OT E S Ideas, designs and styles for your home By PENDLE HARTE

NIGHT

WAT C H SECRET LINEN STORE

The new Elsie bed linen collection is made from 70% cotton mixed with linen yarns, resulting in a fabric that has to be felt to be believed. Laundered to perfection, it has the relaxed look of linen, but the softness of cotton. The delicate, stunning embroidered border is embroidered and handattached. The set looks beautiful and feels incredible. secretlinenstore.com

WA LL S TO RY SURFACE VIEW

A new collection of wallpaper murals features warm tones and calming scenes from collections including the Royal Horticultural Society, Ashmolean Museum, and the V&A Pictured is 'Flowering Shrub and Mauflies' Wallpaper Mural from the V&A Collection. surfaceview.co.uk

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

INTERIORS NOTES.indd 72

26/08/2022 16:53

INTERIORS • NOTES

TA K E FIVE Bowls

MICUCCI INTERIORS Pumpkin bowl, £44 micucci.co.uk

IN A SW I R L

S O U N D SYS T E M KEF

KEF's New LSX II Wireless HiFi System adds a touch of contemporary style to any room with its minimal, elegant design whilst also delivering high-fidelity audio. The Carbon Black and Cobalt Blue models are clad in a specially designed fabric from Danish textile designer Kvadrat. uk.kef..com

HENRY HOLLAND

ROCKETT ST GEORGE Vintage style glass bowl, £16 rockettstgeorge.co.uk

Fashion designer-turnedceramicist Henry Holland has launched his first collection of artisinal glassware, all hand-blown in the UK with inspiration taken from Henry's own interpretation of the nerikomi pottery technique. henryhollandstudio.co.uk

OKA Kintaro Serving Bowl, £75 oka.com

MIN & MICH Jaipur hand-painted stainless steel serving bowl, £22.50 minandmich.com

ROSE & GREY Striped stoneware bowl, £58 roseandgrey.co.uk

NATURE CALLING JOHN LEWIS HOME

For AW22, the Modern Country trend celebrates a connection to simple pleasures, crafts and rituals with honest and utilitarian materials and a focus on natural forms. johnlewis.co.uk

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

INTERIORS NOTES.indd 73

26/08/2022 16:53

LITTLE GREENE.indd 74

26/08/2022 16:53

INTERIORS • TREND NICHOLAS ENGERT INTERIORS Diva Wall Light, £625 nicholasengert.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

ZAHA HADID ARCHITECTS Handmade rug for Illulian zaha-hadid.com

HK LIVING SNUG The Cloud Sundae 3 Seater Sofa Bed, £1,969 snugsofa.com

SWEETPEA & WILLOW Umage Audacious Cabinet Petrol Blue, £659 sweetpeaandwillow.com

Blue Swirl High Wine Glass set of 2, £25 hkliving.com

BLUE VELVET All the best blue pieces this season

CURATED LIVING LIMITED

MICUCCI INTERIORS Gea ceramic vases, £280 micucci.co.uk

By P E N D L E H A R T E

Blue Plate 23cm, £25 curatedliving.co.uk

LOAF Mini Bubble Lamp With Vintage Linen Shade, £65 loaf.com

JONATHAN ADLER Ripple bed, £POA jonathanadler.com

ROSE & GREY GISELA GRAHAM Blue Nude Heart Ceramic Ornament, £16.99 giselagraham.co.uk

Twister Side Table, £215 roseandgrey.co.uk

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

PRODUCTS.indd 75

26/08/2022 16:53

POWER

O F TE MPL E

BATTERSEA POWER.indd 76

26/08/2022 16:54

INTERIORS • ARCHITECTURE

Battersea Power Station is about to reopen as a new riverside destination. Absolutely looks at the complex restoration project Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E

or as long as anybody can remember, Battersea Power Station has been an empty shell blighted by constant developer wrangling and aborted ambitions. The iconic Art Deco building with its four distinctive towers is a London landmark, dominating the skyline along its stretch of the river and is represented in art and culture as a symbol of our city. But still, it’s had a hard time finding an identity since it stopped generating electricity in 1983. Until now, that is. This autumn sees the opening of an entirely new life for the power station, reborn as a neighbourhood (with its own tube station), a place described by its developers as ‘a creative hub, a destination with zones for living, working and entertaining’ – in other words, 255 new flats, a shopping centre, office space for 5000 people, a riverside open space, a cinema, an event space and more. All of this has taken about a decade in planning, architects and building, all of which is not new to the Grade II* listed building that has in fact been some form of a building site for much of its existence. Conservation architect David Hills has been involved with the project since 2013. He says its been “a rollercoaster

ride – when you’re dealing with an existing building you never know what you’re going to find.” Giles Gilbert Scott, the architect known for the red phone box, built the power station in the early 1930s, but it was an ongoing project and the fourth chimney wasn’t finished until 1955. For 30 years it was London’s tallest building, and the scale of it is vast – it’s larger than three football fields. St Paul’s Cathedral could fit inside without even touching the sides. During its 50-year service, coal was delivered by ship and rail and sent to the boiler house on a conveyor belt, until the building was decommissioned in 1983. When Hills first went inside, there wasn’t much left of the building. He had a responsibility to retain the maximum amount of remaining fabric, though works in the late 1980s had taken off the roof and a big section of the wall, so there was a lot of reconstruction to be done. “It came very close to biting the dust. There was a sense that there was hardly anything left of it and some people thought it would be best to knock it down and start again.” Over the course of the project, much of the structure was rebuilt, including the chimneys. “It’s been a very expensive and complex job,” he says, and it’s the backing of a wealthy Malaysian

NEW APARTMENTS IN THE POWER STATION

HARMONIOUS NEW AND OLD BRICKWORK

O TL E U LY T E LY. A B SAOB LS U m aLgOaNzD i nOeNs

BATTERSEA POWER.indd 77

26/08/2022 16:54

INTERIORS • ARCHITECTURE

THE CONTROL ROOM INSIDE THE POWER STATION NEW APARTMENTS

“If you ﬁnd a brick that doesn’t match, it upsets the Art Deco look” consortium that has enabled it to go ahead. This is one of the world’s largest brick buildings, so bricks were clearly going to be a starting point for repairs. Hills says: “We knew we needed to get quite a lot of bricks, and they had to match the original ones. The building is very monolithic – there’s not a lot of variation and it’s affected by subtle variations of light and shade. If you find a brick that doesn’t match it upsets the Art Deco look, so we needed a close match for seamless repairs.” Finding the right brick was quite a task, as the power station held no records of the original build and Hills’ only source was a contemporary newspaper article from 1935 with a mention of ‘straw-coloured Blockley bricks from Worcestershire’. He found that there was a company called Blockley, but it was in Telford, not Worcestershire – and the samples they sent didn’t match at all. Hills contacted all the UK’s major brick manufacturers and called in samples from all over the country, but none matched, and nobody was able to make the original sizes either. Eventually, some creative thinking saved the day. Hills says: “We thought – what if there’s a place called Blockley? And there was, but it was in Gloucestershire, not Worcestershire. Then a bit more research showed that the county boundaries had changed, so

we cast around and found a company that made bricks. I called them and asked for the works manager, saying I was calling about Battersea Power Station. I had to repeat it – I mentioned Pink Floyd – but the person on the phone had never heard of it. As I was spelling Battersea I heard another person in the background saying ‘oh we did the original bricks for that’.” That was the eureka moment. The company that made the original bricks in the early 1930s, Northcot Bricks, still existed and was still making bricks. “The works manager came up the next day with a boot full of bricks and it was obvious as soon as he held them

up that they were the ones.”. Hills and his team put in an order for 1.2 million bricks, all of which were hand made in exactly the same way they had been 80 years earlier. The finished structure now has lifts in the chimneys leading to the impressive penthouse apartments at the top, which have roof gardens commanding views of the river and beyond, while one of the towers houses a lift with a viewing platform at the top, which is set to open as a ticketed visitor attraction. Anyone visiting should take a moment to appreciate not only the beauty of the building, but the seamless fusing of old and new brick.

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

BATTERSEA POWER.indd 78

26/08/2022 16:54

Bring your home to life with Abstract ART Come and see us at Stand A2 at The Aﬀordable Art Fair Battersea 19-23 October 2022: Register here for comp tickets www.caigerat.com/aaf-tickets

Free Home Art Consultancy: Not sure what WOW factor artwork to buy, or looking for several artworks to complete your home renovations? At Caiger Art we have been hand-picking awesome, good quality, abstract artwork for our clients for almost ten years. We live and breathe abstract artwork! We can propose artwork for your requirements, bring artwork to your home or arrange viewings at our Viewing Rooms in Ewell Village. Find out more about our free art consultancy ‘try before you buy’ service here www.caigerart.com/try or give Carol a call on 07828513885 to chat about how we can best help you. All the artwork shown here is available from www.caigerart.com.

Visit The Viewing Room in Ewell Village, Surrey or call for details 07828 513885 | carol@caigerart.com | caigerart.com Caiger Art

CAIGAR ART_SEPTEMBER 2022_ABSOLUTELY LONDON.indd 79

@caigerart

26/08/2022 16:59

Beovision Harmony Beolab 28

A M AG I C A L TV EXPERIENCE

Hearing is believing. Because, when it’s played just right, sound has the incredible ability to transport you from your living room to a packed stadium, to the bottom of the ocean – or a galaxy far far away. Come and visit us in store for an out of this world experience!

Scan to book an appointment. Free glass of Champagne and goodie bag for all customers who book online.

BANG OLUFSEN.indd 80

Bang and Olufsen of Ealing 17 Bond Street, London, W5 5AP Tel & WhatsApp: 020 8840 1010

26/08/2022 16:55

INTERIORS • SPOTLIGHT

STEM SUBJECT

Richard Brendon launches a new collection of mouth-blown glass vases By EVE HERBERT

B XXX IMAGE CAPTION XXX

“Each vase is individually mouth-blown by master craftspeople”

ritish ceramic designer Richard Brendon has launched his first vase collection, ‘1821’, inspired by the craft of glassmaking. Each vase has been designed with both function and beauty at front of mind while utilising centuries-old craftsmanship methods, working alongside fellow London brand, McQueens Flowers, to perfect the designs in order to bring ease to building flawless floral displays in the home. Continuing the timeline of history from London, 1650 (Richard Brendon’s most recent glassware launch), 1821 is named in a similar vein, celebrating the year Bristolian glassmaker Henry Ricketts revolutionised the production of glass bottles. He created and patented an innovative bottle mould incorporating hinges, allowing glass to be consistently blown to the same size and capacity for the first time. 1821 utilises exactly the same styled moulds today, with each vase individually mouth-blown by master craftspeople in Bohemia to exact dimensions, creating timeless pieces for the contemporary home with a 200-year history behind them. The collection takes on a deep hue of olive green, mimicking not only the ‘Black Glass’ used

across the 17th Century, but also floral stems, allowing blooms on display to pull central focus whilst maintaining a natural look and feel. The colour also gives the individual vases a more striking presence should they be used alone as decorative pieces or candle holders. The unique seal on the front completes the design, featuring an RB monogram providing both a focal point and nod to historic bottles that featured the seals and emblems of their owners. 1821 features five varying sizes, from a Bud Vase for elegant tablescapes to larger showstoppers for the mantelpiece; each designed with different styles and flowers in mind. Richard Brendon says: "The collection stays true to our purpose of making the everyday exceptional. I’m delighted we have created a family of vases which are perfect for all types of flowers, every occasion, and any season, designed to make florals look their very best in your home." richardbrendon.com mcqueensflowers.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

RICHARD BRENDON.indd 81

26/08/2022 21:28

LIGNEOUS - RPT S.indd 82

26/08/2022 16:56

XXXXXXXX • XXXXX

Study SPACE

Dreading the return of homework battles as term begins? A positive workspace could be the solution

“Aboremp orerisque et labor solo volorehenda eiunt, odiam fuga. quam eum volut”

By PENDLE HARTE

ost children don’t come home from school raring to embark on their homework. In fact, probably no child does. Homework is one of the main areas of argument in households with primary school-aged children and families all over the UK will be dreading the beginning of term and the return of homework-related battles. Creating the right environment for homework is one way to establish positive habits. The kitchen table is probably not the best place for homework – children need a quiet spot that’s well laid-out and away from distractions, where stationery is well-ordered and the lighting is right. Also, choosing the right desk and desk chair is essential in supporting spinal health and ensuring good posture. As children move to secondary school and towards public exams, they will spend more and more time at their desks. So it’s good to get it right from the start. Lucinda Newbound, Senior Ergonomics Advisor at Back in Action is an expert in creating a positive workspace. She says: “Students spend hours working at their desks, so it is crucial that they invest in a chair which is going to support them properly. Sitting in unsuitable chairs will lead to back pain, poor posture, sore neck and shoulders.” For her, it’s important that being sedentary doesn’t mean being inactive. She is an advocate of Active Seating, a process of keeping the body moving while sitting, to strengthen the core muscles and allow the spine to be in its natural curved shape, replicating the position of the spine when standing. A good office chair should move in all directions: forwards and backwards, side to side, up and down. Position is important too, and keeping your knees

IMAGES SHOW CHAIRS FROM A SELECTION AT BACKINACTION.CO.UK

below your hips, and therefore your spine over your pelvis, creates a forward tilt that is important for core fitness, and that’s what makes kneeling chairs so good. Even simply getting an ergonomic cushion can make any chair into a moving chair (we can recommend the Vluv air-filled ergonomic balance cushion £59, which is popular with children for its built-in wobble). So for a fresh start this September, take a look at your child’s workspace and consider whether a revamp might help. Drama-free homework could be within reach. A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

DESKS.indd 83

26/08/2022 21:28

BARCLAYS - RUG STORE.indd 84

26/08/2022 16:56

INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP SHINING THROUGH, BY FINTAN WHELAN

“There is nothing better than awesome abstract artwork to reﬂect your personality”

CREATE WOW FACTOR IN YOUR HOME How to make the most of buying abstract artwork for your home

here is nothing better than awesome abstract artwork to reflect your personality and make your home your own, but sometimes it can be hard to take the plunge and commit to something. How can you be sure that it's right? At Caiger Art the team have five top tips to make sure you find the perfect piece of abstract art for your home.

DAY AND NIGHT BY DEBORAH LANYON

• Hang on the biggest wall in the room: Create a wow factor when you walk in. Make sure it won’t jar with colours or artwork from adjoining rooms. • Don’t stress about old design rules, Whether you have a Scandi chic or Maximalist home, anything goes. Contemporary monochrome or ‘in your face’ colours look fantastic with both.

I'M OK, I'M JUST TIRED, BY SAMUEL DEACON

• Enhance colour pops: Tie up your room design with your fabulous abstract by picking out colours from your existing sofa, cushions, rug or headboard. Be careful, though – don’t be too ‘matchy matchy’. • Size Matters. For jaw-dropping impact, your artwork should be ¾ the size of your wall. Still not sure? Stick a piece of cardboard on the wall cut to the size of the artwork you think you would need. Live with it for a few days. Instinctively you will know if it is right. • Buy direct from an independent gallery or from their online shop. At Caiger Art, they know their artists very well so you can be confident that the fantastic artwork is good quality, original, abstract, artwork. Are you looking for a wow factor abstract artwork? At Caiger Art they have been hand-picking good quality, abstract artwork for almost ten years. They live and breathe abstract artwork and believe that buying art should be fun, and not intimidating Still not sure what to buy? Caiger Art offers a free home visit ‘try before you buy’ service. Contact them for a free consultation. CA I G E R A R T All the artwork shown here is available from www.caigerart.com Insta: @caigerart

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

CAIGER ART ADV_SEPTEMBER 2022_ABSOLUTELY LONDON.indd 85

26/08/2022 17:00

50% OFF When Purchasing A Trevi Home Kitchen Discount Code: TXA22 *T&Cs Apply

The Luxury Home Showroom Kitchens +44 (0) 208 549 9990

Bathrooms trevi.co.uk

Bedrooms info@trevi.co.uk

*T&Cs - Quooker Flex PRO3 boiling water taps only. Offer valid with any kitchen (including furniture, worktop and appliances) purchased on or before 14th October 2022

TREVI HOMES.indd 86

26/08/2022 17:02

INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP

THE PEDINI AROMA KITCHEN

LUXURY LIVING

You can trust the team at Trevi Home to design your dream luxury living spaces

riginally founded in 2004, Trevi Home is an independent company specialising in luxury kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms. They are driven to create high quality designs and are trusted by some of the world’s leading luxury brands.

IN THE KITCHEN

IN THE BEDROOM

IN THE BATHROOM

Design your perfect sanctuary with bespoke bedroom furniture from Trevi Home. Their fitted furniture service is all-inclusive, so the team at Trevi will take care of everything – from consultation and design to delivery and installation – meaning you can rest assured that they will get the job done to the highest standard.

As the heart of the home, Trevi Home understand the importance of creating a kitchen that suits all needs. They work with leading Italian and German brands to create luxury kitchens that are beautifully designed and rich in quality. Trevi has also formed partnerships with many wellknown household brands and can offer an extensive range of high-end appliances. It doesn't matter if you're refitting a large family bathroom, refreshing a downstairs cloakroom or adding a brand new en-suite; whatever you might need, the team at Trevi have you covered. With high-quality fixtures, fittings and finishes, they can provide their customers with a complete bathroom package – from concept to completion.

THE PEDINI MOKA KITCHEN.

Trevi Home seek to deliver the best in both design and experience. You can browse their extensive range of luxury bathroom and kitchen products at their showrooms in Cheam and Kingston. TREVI HOME Call 0208 549 9990 or email info@trevi.co.uk to book your free design consultation today. trevi.co.uk

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

TREVI HOMES_SEPTEMBER 2022_ABSOLUTELY LONDON.indd 87

26/08/2022 17:05

A run of simple bookshelves not only accommodates a Brooklyn- based gallerist Genevieve Hudson- Price’s library but also offers a surface where she and partner Stefan Marolachakis can display an eclectic array of treasures.

O N

T H E

SHELF

A tiny apartment that’s home to an abundance of reading materials looks chic not cluttered thanks to a narrow mid-century style bench that acts as a shelving-cum-display unit. Alternately stacking and standing the books creates areas for decorative vignettes.

Elegant ideas for storing & displaying books Wo r d s D A M I A N T H O M P S O N

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

HOUSE TOUR.indd 88

26/08/2022 21:29

INTERIORS • STORAGE Pretty much any dash of colour would make your pupils pop in Jill Macnair’s pure, white vaulted attic in East Dulwich, but the soaring tongue-and-groove is the perfect foil for the bold vertical contrasting stripes formed by clusters of paperbacks in every hue.

ooks are not made for furniture, but there is nothing else that so beautifully furnishes a house.’ When the Congregationalist preacher Henry Ward Beecher wrote these words in the mid-19th century, most educated homes of the middling sort possessed a small library of sombrely bound volumes neatly corralled into a parlour, study or alcove. Their decorative potential, in other words, was limited. Nowadays, despite competition from other media, new titles continue to pour out of publishing houses, which often put as much effort into making their form desirable as they do into ensuring their content is worthwhile. An eye-catching jacket helps a book stand out in a crowded marketplace. And while such elements as decorative endpapers, heavy

“Little tableaux can be created on coffee tables, side chairs and cabinets” paper stock and glossy photographs all add to a publisher’s costs – and therefore the price consumers pay for the end product – books are, relative to income, cheap compared to the past. This can mean that bibliophiles have large numbers of these aesthetically pleasing objects and not enough shelf space to house them. If that’s the case, make a virtue out of necessity. An artfully positioned stack of books can lead the eye towards an unassuming but finely executed pencil sketch in the corner of the room; equally it can divert attention away from a window with its eyesore of a tower block beyond. Speaking of which, a single ‘skyscraper’ of 30 or more books in the corner creates a powerful vertical accent among beds, low coffee tables and sprawling sofas, but they should be arranged in strictly diminishing order of size for added stability. Ideally, too, books should be regularly rotated into and out of this arrangement, so that bindings are not crushed over time. There

are practical downsides, it must be said, not least the difficulty in retrieving the copy you want. Hi-fi equipment and Ming vases should be kept away from the topple radius, and if your household includes pets or toddlers, you might as well forget the idea. Large books that rarely need to be consulted can form an eye-catching base for a glass table top – likewise serving as pedestals for speakers or telephones. For these kind of semi-permanent arrangements, think about positioning the books to create chromatic rhythms with, say, red- or black-coloured spines recurring at regular intervals. Vladimir Nabokov wrote: ‘In reading one should notice and fondle details.’ The same applies to little tableaux that can be created on coffee tables, side chairs and cabinets. An antique lamp looks great propped up on a couple of matching faded leather tomes, while two low equal piles of books at either end of a bench in a hallway might echo the symmetry of the pictures or wall sconceson A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

HOUSE TOUR.indd 89

26/08/2022 21:29

INTERIORS • STORAGE

INTERIORS • DESIGN

“An antique lamp looks great propped up on a couple of matching faded leather tomes” the wall above. In the warm months, when the fire is never lit, fi ll a wicker basket with a stack of art books and place it on a waxed wooden fl oor by the hearth – this will instantly perk up a moribund spot. Bookends mean that you can enliven narrow surfaces, such as console tables, mantelpieces or reasonably wide windowsills, with little vertical runs. These simple devices work by a mixture of gravity and friction – the taller and heavier the block, and the rougher the contact between bookend and underlying surface, the stronger the support. For the kind of vignettes that we’re currently discussing, though, you should forget the large format coffee-table titles and the heavy cast-iron brackets or massive mahogany Ls that they would call for. Given the relatively simple physical forces at work, product designers have carte blanche to let their imaginations rip. Witty examples include a bold ‘A’ and ‘Z’; ‘pushing’ and ‘leaning’ Soviet Realist-style workers; and a Chinese dragon’s head at one end, with its tail emerging at the other end of the row. Most eye-catching of all the examples I have seen is two ‘halves’ of a fish bowl, complete with live tropical specimens, which leave what they enclose frankly upstaged. What other techniques are there for showcasing the purely aesthetic qualities of your books? In some shelving units, it is possible to have the occasional shelf oriented on a slant, with a lip, just like a long lectern, so that you can face some covers outwards; this can also be done on regular shelves – just as bookshops When shelves cross an alcove, such as in this tiny flat in Brixton, little runs of hard- and paperbacks can themselves work as visual bookends, a kind of unifying framing device for a mélange of bric-a-brac, be it porcelain teacups, a jewellery box or antique bottles.

While nothing could steal the limelight from events designer Jo Berryman’s fabulous sunburst mirror, her alcove- width ladder bookcase comes close. Topped by a bulbous designer hi-fi speaker, the five faceout shelves offer the chance for a continuously evolving display.

do to promote titles with strong sales potential – breaking up an endless sea of spines with graphically bold or pictorially memorable jackets. Just like in an art gallery, one can ‘rotate’ regularly those you display. Organising by colour offers a hit of pure pop-art pleasure; not only does the rainbow effect offer a wonderful focal point, but one can find new correspondences between subjects (on my own shelves, now that an Odilon Redon monograph, Phaidon’s three-volume Design Classics and a book on loft living are rubbing yellow shoulders, it sparks off new directions in lateral thinking). This approach works best with chunky hardbacks. Finally, in some minimalist schemes, I have seen books arranged so that their tails and fore-edges face outward. All right, you can argue that, particularly if they’re all squashed in higgledy-piggledy, the textural effect of pages going in all directions can create an interesting abstract sculpture, a contrast from the ordered, cool neutrality elsewhere. But – sorry to state the blindingly obvious – I do want to be able to find a book without pulling apart my collection every time. Extract taken from Books Make a Home by Damian Thompson, Ryland, Peters and Small, 2022

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

HOUSE TOUR.indd 90

26/08/2022 21:29

BESPOKE FITTED WARDROBES, STUDIES & LIVING ROOM UNITS

B R E N T W O O D | C H E L S E A | H A M P ST E A D | H A M P TO N H I L L | H ATC H E N D W W W. N E AT S M I T H . C O . U K

NEATSMITH.indd 91

26/08/2022 17:06

SMITH BYFORD.indd 92

26/08/2022 17:06

INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP

“Total Home Solutions is a family-run business, so they are big enough to cope, but small enough to care”

ALWAYS AVAILABLE

In addition, they also provide a service for tenants to contact directly if they ever experience any problems with their heating or electrical services. You can choose from a variety of plans, depending on the level of coverage you are looking for, but if you are after guaranteed peace of mind, the ultimate package may be just the thing. It brings together and enhances both the premier gas and electrical packages, and includes breakdown cover for all gas, boiler pump and electrical repairs. An unlimited call-out service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, so a technician is only a phone call away. At only £23 per month, this plan is great value for money, especially considering there are no additional excess payments and that all the parts and labour come included. For added security, there is also the option to add plumbing cover for an additional £7 per month. As winter approaches, now is the time to make sure everything in your house is running efficiently. Making the change to Total Home Solutions is easy, thanks to their friendly team that will be on hand to help you get set up. Just think of all the headaches and gas bills you will be saving youself in the future.

You can buy yourself peace of mind with a Total Home Solutions maintenance package

ith the way energy prices are increasing, now is not the time to have issues with the heating, plumbing and electricity in your home. A leaking boiler or a dripping faucet could end up costing you a fortune. If you don’t currently have a maintenance package to cover the heating and electrics in your home, now is probably the time to start thinking about one. Likewise, if you do have a package, but are unhappy with the quality service offered or their renewal price, this could be the opportunity to switch providers. Total Home Solutions are a local family-run business, so they are big enough to cope, but still small enough to care. They

have developed an enviable reputation, thanks to their professional approach and commitment to customer care. Their comprehensive maintenance packages offer homeowners and landlords a range of premium services within a manageable budget. For total comfort and peace of mind, they have specifically designed a range of tailored packages to cover all of your heating, electrical and plumbing needs. Four levels of cover are available for private homeowners, starting from as little as £8 per month. These packages cover boilers, central heating and electrical, with the option to also include plumbing. Similar maintenance packages are also available for private landlords, which are focused on meeting legal obligations for gas and electrical test requirements.

TOTA L H O M E S O LU T I O N S To find out more or request an information pack, contact the friendly team by calling 020 8722 3439, emailing ths@smithandbyford.com or visiting smithandbyford.com

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

TOTAL HOME SOLUT.indd 93

26/08/2022 21:29

NORDEN.indd 94

26/08/2022 17:06

INTERIORS • BEDDING

L I N E N

L O V E R S

FIVE OF THE BEST BED LINENS

1 1

IN THE PINK PIGLET IN BED

Mix and match Piglet's bed linen colours to work with the aesthetic of your home with duvet covers, fitted sheets, flat sheets and pillowcases. Natural, no-fuss, comfort for every bedroom. pigletinbed.com

ISLAND LIFE SA N DER SON

This delightful bed linen by Sanderson depicts botanical illustrations in a paired back bohemian feel, providing an exotic escape to tropical island life and warmer climates. frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

CRINKLE CUT U N D E R C OV E R

Linus organic cotton percale bedding is covered in white oversized bendy blobs on a muted terracotta, and a plain white backside. This super soft , crinkle textured fabric is made from organic cotton in Portugal. undercoverliving.com

5 4

F LOW E R S H O P MM LINEN

Isola depicts hand-painted bunches of garden flowers in a distinctive palette of warm colours with a mustard coloured background. Mustard colour reverse side. ukmmlinen.com

FRESH STRIPES SECRET LINEN STORE

George is a naturally striped, tumbled soft , duvet cover with a difference. Made in Portugal the unique herringbone weave is 68% responsible sourced cotton and 32 % finest linen yarns. secretlinenstore.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

BED LINEN.indd 95

26/08/2022 17:06

WEST LONDON KITC.indd 96 Untitled-5 1

26/08/2022 14/12/2021 17:06 14:56

INTERIORS • TREND

S E T F O R A N E W S E A S O N How to use autumnal patterns to warm up your home By

S A R A H B A R C L AY

I “Oranges and reds combined with blues and purples can create the perfect balance between summer and winter”

t’s time to get into the autumn mood. Think soft cosy fabrics, warming colours, and memorable patterns. Our favourite way to do this is by including warm autumnal patterns in our interiors through accessories like throw cushions, blankets, or rugs. There’s the benefit of adding a calming autumnal aesthetic as well as warming up your home for the colder months ahead. Maybe you’re not ready to let go of summer quite yet, in that case you can look at adding rich floral patterns to your space with cushions or throws. Dark floral patterns can remind you of spring, but with a range of burgundies or oranges, these patterns capture the essence of autumn. There are so many different options when it comes to choosing floral patterns as they can range from large to small flower sizes. Brocade patterns add an elegant yet cosy twist to a space. The ornate swirls in this pattern can add both texture and movement. Brocade patterns are a great choice for throw cushions in both the bedroom and the living room. They encourage comfort and add a sense of luxury. In one of our projects, we used silvery brocade patterned throw cushions to add a cosy touch to a modern bedroom. It’s a versatile pattern in that it comes in a wide range of styles and colours. Geometric patterns are fun to mix and match to create a warm autumnal aesthetic. These patterns can be used for a variety of accessories from cushions to rugs. Many geometric patterns have sharp angles and lines that come together to

form a close-knit and cosy design. If you choose multi-coloured geometric patterns for your space, try using an autumnal colour palette to add warmth. Oranges and reds combined with blues and purples can create the perfect balance between summer and winter in your home. You can’t go wrong with striped patterns. Stripes are as flattering to spaces as they are in fashion. Although they may seem like a simple choice, they are customisable in terms of line spacing and thickness, as well as whether they’re diagonal or vertical. You could get a monochromatic pattern with one or two autumnal colours, or you can go all out with the autumn aesthetic and choose a wider range of colour. Keep in mind that the colour you choose should complement the colours you have in your room to bring the design together. Remember that the right pattern for your space will be determined by the size of the pattern, colour combination, and texture of the fabric. If you’re not sure where to start, an interior designer will be able to help. B A R C L AY I N T E R I O R S Sarah Barclay is the founder of Barclay Interiors based in Ascot – for more information, visit barclay-interiors.com

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

BARCLAYS.indd 97

26/08/2022 17:07

We give people high value, low prices and a warm welcome! We are proud to be MTC (Minimum Technical Competence) certified here at The Door & Window Shop, which means you can feel assured in the knowledge that we provide a professional and highly regarded service that is not only recognized by FENSA but also by our industry peers. Putting our team through regular rigorous tests, ensures that we can give you the best quality service when fitting any of our products. Having such a prestigious certification is our pledge to keep the standards high within the industry and encourage better practice across the board. A member of Checkatrade for 12 years

01932 500 270 justshutters.co.uk

T3000 JS SEP 2022 Absolutely Surrey 93x270.indd 1 JUST SHUTTERS - SBI - DWS.indd 98

5 Station Approach, Stoneleigh, Epsom, KT19 0QZ | 020 8337 9425 www.windows-kingston.co.uk | 2 HOURS FREE PARKING

09/08/2022 22:04 DWS_QP_ABS_JULY22_v2.indd 1

29/06/2022 13:28 26/08/2022 17:07

INTERIORS • STOVES

T U R N U P T H E H E A T With the autumn chill on its way, here's our buyer's guide to choosing the right stove By R AC H E L W E B B

ARADA HAMLET SOLUTION 5 STOVE IN THE BOLD EDIT PEAPOD GREEN, £679

"An efficient modern stove will ramp up the cosiness and potentially offer a way of saving on energy costs"

toves are a great way of adding a cosy focal point to living spaces, and the right design can lift a room scheme – especially as you can choose from bold colours, and streamlined modern or elegant traditional models. There's a stove to suit just about any space and you don't even need a fireplace for many designs, just a suitable outside wall or roof space to accommodate the flue system. But there's another good reason to consider investing in a new stove this autumn – bills. Unless you're planning an extended trip to the sun, staying warm this winter is a very real concern. It's something the Stove Industry Alliance (SIA) is certainly hot on, also reminding us of the benefits of reducing reliance on central heating. Stoves are never a recommended alternative to central heating, but an efficient, modern design will ramp up the cosiness and potentially offer a way of saving on other energy costs. This is something that SIA is emphasising, pointing to recent research about the "zonal heating" approach. This suggests that using a wood-burning stove while

CHARLTON & JENRICK GO ECO WIDE MULTIFUEL STOVE, £649

turning down your gas central heating to 18°C for three hours five times a week could save almost 8.5% on average heating bills – potentially more if fuel bills continue to rise. Not only that, but you have the reassurance of staying cosy during a power cut (outages do happen) bringing peace of mind that can justify the outlay. If you're warming to the idea of snuggling around the fire while saving money, here are five tips for choosing and running a stove.

1. GO ECO-FRIENDLY AND EFFICIENT

SALTFIRE ST-X5 ECODESIGN STOVE, £899

If you're sitting in front of an open fire or running an older stove (10 years plus) it's almost certainly worth considering an upgrade to an Ecodesign-compliant model (for example clearSkies certified). The latest compliant stoves generate 80% fewer emissions than the older stoves, and 90% less than an open fire. A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

STOVES.indd 99

26/08/2022 21:29

TheYork

Bed Company

Hand making beds for over 40 years Our new premium Handstitched Vegan Calico Pocket mattress supports your body and conscience. Materials are ethically sourced and chemical free.

Mattresses-Bed Sets-Divans-Head Boards

●

Traditional Quality

●

Made to Measure

Unit 10 – Acaster Estates, Cowper Lane, Acaster Malbis, York YO23 2TX, England Yorkbeds.com │ 01904 777 070 Delivery available throughout the UK and Europe

BLIND AND CURTAIN SHOWROOM Refresh your home with new curtains and blinds made from a wonderful collection of fabrics, including designers Sanderson, Harlequin, Romo and more Bespoke Luxaﬂex blinds including SmartHome integration Browse and buy our gifts online at www.curtain-call.co.uk Please call for showroom appointments Opening Hours: Tues-Sat 10am to 5pm 52 Friars Stile Road, Richmond, Surrey TW10 6NQ 020 8332 6250 • www.curtain-call.co.uk info@curtain-call.co.uk CURTAIN _CALL_HP_ABS_APRIL.indd 1

YORK BED - CURTAIN CALL.indd 100

08/03/2022 15:06

26/08/2022 17:07

INTERIORS • STOVES

CHARNWOOD ISLAND ONE BLU ECODESIGN STOVE, £2,418

proper survey of the room you'll be heating. An authorised stove dealer and installer (HETAC or OFTEC registered) can advise on the right wattage, as well as undertaking a survey to ensure your chimney or other flue point is safely prepared. Also, look for a stove with responsive controls – you want a design you can adjust quickly and easily.

MORSØ 3112 BADGER STOVE, £1,550

4. BURN THE RIGHT FUEL

HUNTER STOVES ASPECT COMPACT ECO STOVE, £999

2 . CHECK LOCAL REGULATIONS If you're in a Smoke Control Area, as most of London and many surrounding areas are, you'll need to choose a stove that is Defra exempt. The penalties for breaching Smoke Control regulations can be hefty – so upgrading makes financial as well as ecological sense. Get advice from your stove retailer but, as a guide, look for clearSkies Level 3 and above stoves.

3. CHOOSE THE RIGHT SIZE FIRELINE WOODTECH STOVE STANDARD SIZE, £1,295

While the idea of a toasty room can be enticing, overheating (or underheating) will be a serious problem if you buy the wrong size. This is why it's important to get a

The right fuel is essential for safe and efficient stove operation. If you buy logs from a local dealer, they should be at or below 20% moisture content – this is for safety as well as smoke control compliance. If you buy logs from a variety of sources, look for the 'Ready to Burn' logo. Never burn wood that has been chemically treated or use the stove to incinerate paper and other rubbish. Also ensure you store logs safely – avoid stacking them too close to the heat of the fire.

5. SERVICE YOUR STOVE Your stove chimney should be swept at least once a year by a registered chimney sweep (visit the Federation of Chimney Sweeps' page for local members). This is the best way to ensure safe and efficient running – and many insurers also insist chimneys are swept regularly. Sweeps are also a wonderful source of practical expertise on all things fireside. For more advice, visit the SIA website at stoveindustryalliance.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

STOVES.indd 101

101

26/08/2022 21:29

Eltham

✓ Friendly in-home service

✓ Options for every budget

✓ Price includes measuring & fitting YOUR LOCAL BLINDS, CURTAINS & SHUTTERS SPECIALIST • I provide expert advice on the best window solutions • Flexible appointment times • Blinds & curtains tailor-made here in the UK

“My local advisor helped me find a blind to fit my budget. The service was second to none”. Laura Jackson, customer

• Ask me about multi-blind discounts • I won’t be beaten on price* • Electric blinds available

Call me for a free in-home appointment: Kris Lewis 07456 845494 *Based on the same spec, size & levels of service.

Bespoke Flooring LONG & WIDE · PRODUCED IN KENT · FINISHED BY HAND JOINERY · OAK FRAMED BUILDINGS · DECKING · CLADDING

CALL

HILLARYS - ORLESTONE.indd 102

01233 73217 9

VISIT

orlestoneoak.co.uk

26/08/2022 17:07

INTERIORS • STOVES

WA R M I N S I D E FIVE OF THE BEST WOOD-BURNING STOVES

C O LO U R P O P A R A DA S T OV E S

The Solution 5 (S4) has traditional styling but is available in a variety of contemporary colourways, including this rich Miami blue. All of Arada's stoves meet the latest eco-ready credentials. From £849; aradastoves.com

PURPLE HAZE

C H A R N WO O D S T OV E S

Designed and made on the Isle of Wight, this Regency-inspired Cranmore 5 comes in matte black or coloured finishes and has a large picture window for cosy evenings fireside. From £1,864 in purple; charnwood.com

CLEAN LINES R O WA N DA L E

The ACR Rowandale is a handsome multifuel design with an air wash feature to make sure the glass stays clean. This stove is suitable for wood burning in smokeless zones. From £1,799 in cream; directstoves.com

3 4

H OT S P OT

H U N T E R S T OV E S

With easy-to-control settings that can turn up the heat in moments, this efficient stove is suitable for fireplace or freestanding installation and would be a classic addition to any living space. From £1,129; hunterstoves.co.uk

C O SY C O R N E R MORSØ

The Morsø 4043 cast iron stove can generate plenty of heat even in the tightest space, thanks to its ergonomic design and sleek chimney, plus it has a handle that always stays cold. From £1,999; morsoe.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

TOP 5 STOVES.indd 103

103

26/08/2022 21:29

9 ― 11 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 2

Use Heritage Open Days weekend to explore and love where you live, there’s plenty for you to discover! www.goepsom.com

GO EPSOM.indd 104

26/08/2022 17:07

TRAVEL

MARVELLOUS MOROCCO LA SULTANA MARRAKECH

The sprawling and elaborately decorated La Sultana Hotel provides a haven of calm from the bustle on its doorstep. Absolutely visits. lasultanahotels.com

Absolutely Visits Morocco 106 • Greek Island Hopping 109 • Green Glamping 111 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

TRAVEL OPENER.indd 105

105

26/08/2022 17:07

LA SULTANA OUALIDIA HOTEL EXTERIOR

Riad

LIFE

Marrakech to Oualidia: from the city to the beach in Morocco By PENDLE HARTE

106

rriving in Marrakech is exciting. The new town feels almost like it could be anywhere – apart from the characteristic Moroccan red stone – with its wide streets, traffic and international hotel chains, but entering the Unesco World Heritage site that is the kasbah, you’re immediately struck by an intensity of small, narrow streets and lots of people. We’re staying at La Sultana, just inside the Medina, and it’s a haven of calm compared to the bustle on its doorstep. Doormen in red capes and fez hats usher us from the taxi down a sidestreet and into the hotel. Despite its small entrance, La Sultana is a sprawling hotel made up of five riads knocked together, each with its own character and different look. It’s a beautiful space, elaborately decorated in the

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

FEATURE.indd 106

26/08/2022 17:07

• NORTH •AFRICA TRAVEL XXXXXXXX XXXXX

“La Sultana is a haven of calm compared to the bustle on its doorstep”

ONE OF THE SOUKS IN MARRAKECH

POOLSIDE AT LA SULTANA

Moroccan style – think patterned tiles and mosaics, wood carvings, inlaid furniture, palms, colourful lanterns and lots of stylish arches and marble columns. Our rooms are spacious and decorative, with balconies overlooking a cacti-filled courtyard with a water feature. Despite only having 28 rooms, it’s a confusing, labyrinthine space anchored by the restaurant at the centre. On the roof there’s another restaurant, and a bar, which is a dreamy, plant-filled place to sit and take in the views over the rooftops. We’re only in Marrakech for three days, and it’s not enough. We spend our time wandering around the souks, shopping and browsing, and marvelling at the snake charmers in Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. A visit to the Jardin du Marjorelle with its amazing cactus garden is a highlight with its vast cacti set against an intensely blue-painted studio building, and the neighbouring Yves Saint Laurent museum offers a fascinating insight into the designer and his glamorous life in the city. Food at La Sultana is excellent and very elegantly served – for breakfast there are strawberries and pineapple served with rosewater alongside delicious Moroccan pastries and – our favourite – Moroccan eggs benedict with olives. La

Sultana’s philosophy of “Terroir Cuisine” showcases Moroccan produce with local and ethically-sourced meat and fish. The cuisine prides itself on heritage Moroccan products like Saffron from Taliouine, some salt from Zerradoune, cumin from Alnif and Argan from Souss. From Marrakech, it’s a three-hour drive to La Sultana’s sister property on the Atlantic coast in Oualidia. This is a town known for its oysters and its surf, popular with holidaying Moroccans but not so well known for international tourism, so it feels quite remote. Approaching La Sultana via a winding road, we don’t know what to expect, but when the building appears it has a fairytale quality, a beautiful stone fortress with domed, thatched rooftops overlooking the lagoon. Lush gardens, beautifully designed with palms, cacti and colourful flowers surround a beautiful pool with luxurious loungers, while a restaurant on a wooden deck overlooking the seafront is a dreamy spot. Inside the building are only 12 rooms, and ours is vast, with its own terrace and hot tub. We spend three happy

days lounging by the pool, eating seafood, and bird watching – the lagoon is an exceptional site, home to flamingoes, storks and herons among other species. This is a quiet spot, but lots of excursions are offered for those more restless than us, and surfers can cross the lagoon to get to the main beach. At night, the building and gardens are lit with countless colourful lanterns, creating a magical feel and a memorable vision. As a contrast to busy Marrakech, Oualidia’s La Sultana is an excellent spot. L A S U LTA N A M A R R A K E C H La Sultana was included in the launch of Small Luxury Hotels of the World’s Considerate Collection. Rates start from £350 per night. For more information visit, lasultanahotels.com LA SULTANA OUALIDIA'S BEACH RESTAURANT

THE LAGOON IN OUALIDIA

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

FEATURE.indd 107

107

26/08/2022 17:08

d n a l s i e n O h g u o n e r is neve

This is our home; experience the best of Greece with the island hopping specialists Every Greek Island has its own unique personality, so sometimes one just isn’t enough. And because no one knows the islands quite like we do, you can expect a little more from an Olympic Holiday.

Tailor-made island hopping 

Family-owned, arranging holidays to Greece and the Greek islands for more than half-century



Flights from 26 UK airports



Choice of islands, accommodation, length of stay and more



Low cost to luxury, simple to special occasion



British Travel Awards winner for nine consecutive years, with votes submitted by the public

Tailor-made island hopping with Olympic Holidays. Use code ISLAND200 to save £200pp*

Go Island Hopping, Go Olympic call 020 8492 6840 visit olympicholidays.com/island-hopping OLYMPIC 108 AbsolutelyHOLIDAYs.indd Magazines Advert – July Travel Issue.indd 1

Terms & Conditions: ISLAND200. Save an extra £200 per person on all new Island-Hopping holidays for two people or more with no minimum spend. Can only be booked through the call centre and cannot be used in conjunction code must be added at time of booking and cannot be added post transaction.

26/08/2022 17/06/2022 17:08 11:53

TRAVEL • PARTNERSHIP

THE ACROPOLIS OF RHODES

D O U B L E T H E F U N SKOPELOS ISLAND

hen it comes to Greece and its islands, it can sometimes be difficult to decide where to spend that well-deserved break. Although some islands might be similar in many aspects, there are also those that differ significantly in terms of size, atmosphere, popularity, and scenery. Maybe it’s an action-packed itinerary with the wild night life you are after, or perhaps a quest for authenticity, hidden gems, and deserted beaches for a more relaxing retreat. Olympic Holidays can provide fantastic bespoke island-hopping itineraries that showcase the contrasting characteristics of the Greek islands. Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese Islands. A luxurious, cosmopolitan feel engulfs the island while it still stays true to its fascinating history with a multitude of cultural attractions and a mesmerising UNESCO-protected Old Town. As one of the most popular Greek islands, there are plenty of great restaurants selling the freshest local and international cuisine and resorts with a buzzing nightlife. Halki promises a little more peace and relaxation and is where time really has

Exploring Olympic Holidays islandhopping trips, from Rhodes to Halki, and Skiathos to Skopelos

stood still, a place to discover “authentic Greece” and where friendly locals welcome visitors like long-lost friends. With a few beaches and minimal transport, Halki is perfect for those looking for an insight into the Greek way of life. Rhodes and Halki make for the perfect pair on an islandhopping holiday, ideal for those wanting to experience two different sides of Greece. Skiathos boasts more than 50 sun-kissed sandy beaches which are among the best in Greece. The charming capital of Skiathos Town has chic nightlife, a lovely old town with charming shops in a maze of alleyways and a beautiful waterfront offering an array of bars, boutiques, and restaurants Skopelos, known for its starring role in the film Mamma Mia and its breath-taking scenery is adored by artists, walkers and hikers. With a more laid-back atmosphere and beautiful architecture, Skopelos has over 100 tiny chapels that are dotted around Skopelos Town. Combine Skiathos and Skopelos for a holiday that reflects the contrasting characteristics of Greece. These pairings of island hops are just a taster of what is on offer when booking an island-hopping holiday. There are so many island combinations to choose from and Olympic Holidays can help create that perfect contrast; tailor-made to suit your needs.

HALIKI HARBOUR

Get Going

Olympic Holidays have an award-winning, dedicated islandhopping team to plan your trip RHODE & HALKI A 7-night Island Hop package starts from £639pp* including return flights with baggage, accommodation, all ferries and private car transfers between the ferry ports

•

SKIATHOS & SKOPELOS A 7-night Island Hop package starts from £755pp* including return flights with baggage, accommodation, all ferries and private car transfers between the ferry ports

•

olympicholidays.com *Terms and conditions apply

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

ADV OLYMPIC HOLIDAYS.indd 109

109

26/08/2022 21:29

glamping In Pa

r t ne r s h i p Wi t h

Buy Any Tent & We'll Plant FIVE Mangrove Trees On Your Behalf!

BOUTIQUE CAMPING.indd 110

26/08/2022 17:08

ABSOLUTELY • PARTNERSHIP

change, sea-level rise and coastal inundation by helping reinstate soil stabilisation, improving the quality of the water, and provide a natural habitat for fish and other rare sea creatures, all whilst removing four times more carbon than rainforests.

GOING CARBON NEUTRAL

A BOUTIQUE CAMPING TENT MAKES FOR A WHIMSICAL WEDDING VENUE

GREEN GLAMPING Camping connoisseurs, Boutique Camping, are on a journey towards carbon neutrality

As we individually grow a deeper and more educated conscious towards saving our planet, the decision to trade overseas escapades for close-to-home staycations may feel like a proactive approach to living a greener life. For camping-connoisseurs and leading bell tent business, Boutique Camping, the journey to greener-glamping has only just begun. For any proud Boutique Camping tent owner, leaving their lavish home-awayfrom-home at a festival simply wouldn’t be an option. They are investment pieces, designed to provide longevity and be passed down generations. Sadly, not all tents get this level of TLC (Tent Love & Care). The

Being the UK’s leading tent manufacturer and distributor, Boutique Camping has acquired a responsibility to lead the way and immersively go the extra mile when it comes to helping the world breathe a little better. The freight services used, in addition to the office, warehouse and each staff member's home energy usage, food supplies, travel, online and in-store purchases are precisely calculated and then offset via high-quality climate solutions. So far they have offset 131 tonnes of carbon and with the guidance, knowledge and commitment provided from partners and social enterprise organisation ‘C FREE’, the team at Boutique Camping endeavour to take their brand the full way and be the first official carbon-neutral company to bloom within their industry. The journey to becoming 100% carbon neutral is an ongoing expedition consisting of small but effective steps, benefiting global organisations along the way. B O U T I Q U E CA M P I N G For more information, call 0203 319 1315, email info@boutiquecamping.com or visit the website at boutiquecamping.com

‘Take Your Tent Home’ initiative, launched by The Association of Independent Festivals (AIF), claims that around 250,000 tents are left at music festivals across the UK. This makes up a whopping 17% of landfill waste & taking 10,000 years to decompose. Here are a few of the ways they plan to reverse some of this damage.

PLANTING TREES Boutique implemented their first stage by rewarding tent-buying customers with not one but five free Mangrove trees to be planted on their behalf. This may seem like a small incentive for the consumer but with an impressive figure of 35k+ trees to date, the benefits are by no means little for our beloved ecosystem So, why Mangrove trees? Well, they’re renowned for effectively fighting climate

DRESSING: Bay Wedding Props PRE-LOVED WEDDING DRESS HIRE: Love It Again Bridal SUSTAINABLE FLORISTRY: Bay Blooms Kent HAIR STYLIST: Versastyle by Laura VENUE: Castle Farm, Kent

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

BOUTIQUE CAMPING ADVERTORIAL.indd 111

111

26/08/2022 17:51

Luxury Holiday Rentals at Glenmor Make yourselves at home in the heart of Gleneagles The Gleneagles experience is one of a kind – you can now enjoy it from the comfort of a Glenmor luxury holiday home, located in the heart of Gleneagles. On your stay you can enjoy complimentary golf for one person, plus access to all of the leisure, dining and pursuits of the 5 star estate. We have 2, 3 and 4 bedroom properties available, perfect for all the family. With prices starting from £3,500 for a 2 bed, £4,410 for a 3 bed and £4,840 for a 4 bed for 7 nights.

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

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

Quality Doors. Great Service. Free Fitting.

Example shown:

• 3.6m wide opening • 77” Anthracite grey slats

Only £1,990 Price on this door style can range from £1,440 - £2,740 depending on the width of door opening.

It’s time to upgrade your garage door to a Garolla electric door. Not only are they strong and secure, they are also thermally insulated. So if you’re transforming the garage into a home gym, office or even a garden bar, Garolla is perfect for you.

Give us a call today and we’ll come and measure up FREE of charge. TWO REMOTE CONTROLS ACOUSTIC & THERMAL INSULATION FREE DISPOSAL OF YOUR OLD DOOR AVAILABLE IN 21 COLOURS

CALL US TODAY FREE ON:

020 3151 1534 MOBILE:

07537 149 128 www.garolla.co.uk

GLENEAGLES - GAROLLA.indd 112

26/08/2022 17:08

TRAVEL • PARTNERSHIP

“With lots of attractions, amazing history and hidden gems everywhere, Epsom is a great place to explore ”

EMILY DAVIDSON STATUE IN EPSOM'S MARKETPLACE

EXPLORE EPSOM

THE VINTAGE MOBILE CINEMA

For a small town Epsom certainly punches above its weight.

psom, one of the UK’s first spa towns will be celebrating their Heritage Open Day in style this year on Friday 9th and Sunday 11th of September. With lots of attractions, amazing history and hidden gems everywhere, it’s a great place to explore. Immediately upon arriving by train, you'll see a magnificent artwork installation in Epsom Station. The fifteen separate artworks were created by British artist Eliza Southwood, to represent key moments in Epsom’s history and celebrate the town’s individuality. The statue of suffragette Emily Davison, unveiled in Epsom’s marketplace last year, is also well-worth a visit.

Whilst you are there, don’t miss the one and only Vintage Mobile Cinema, as featured in George Clarke’s, 'Amazing Spaces'. It is the only cinema of its kind in the UK and will take pride of place in Epsom’s Marketplace. It will be open for visitors to explore, and you can even watch a short film. Epsom Coaches will also be sending one of their spectacular vintage vehicles for the public to admire. For any fans of theatre, the creative workshop company, Divergent Drama, will also be present in the marketplace running engaging invention workshops for children and families. What's more, Epsom’s brand new regional arts centre The Horton, will be open for tours several days a week and will be holding a special Heritage exhibition.

Fans of equestrian, are definitley going to want to drop by the Jockey Club’s Trainer’s Open Day on Sunday 11th September. Epsom Downs will be jam-packed full of fun activities, including farrier, grooming, and galloping demonstrations and six of the local training yards will be open to the public. To embark on your adventure through Epsom's history download a Heritage Trail Guide on the website. goepsom.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

GO EPSOM.indd 113

111

26/08/2022 21:29

DISCOVERMORE

An independent co-educational senior school for students aged 11-18 in West London

Embracing an innovative, modern approach whilst keeping traditional values at its core, Kew House School takes an exciting stance on 21st century education. With state-of-the-art facilities, a broad curriculum and excellent pastoral care, Kew House is a place where you would want to be – a place of learning and discovery, laughter and friendship.

KEW HOUSE.indd 114 Untitled-10 kh.indd 1 1

Book your place at one of our Open Events at www.kewhouseschool.com/ openevents T: 020 8742 2038 W: www.kewhouseschool.com @KewHouseSchool

26/08/2022 14/12/2021 17:08 18:52 24/11/2021 11:50

SPECI A L GREEN SCHEME P U T N EY H I G H S C H O O L

Putney High School's biophilic classroom experiment saw pupils grow and nurture plants for health and learning benefits, and the impact has spread well beyond the school gates. p.152

Inside this section NEWS p117 FOCUS ON REPTON p120 WONDERFUL QUIDDITCH p130 U N D E R S TA N D S P E E C H D E L AY p 1 3 3 G E N E R AT I O N C O M M U N I C AT I O N p 1 3 8 WHY STU DY DT p147 D R A M A R E WA R D S p1 5 6 C R E AT I V E K I T S p 1 5 9 B E S T F A M I LY P A S S E S p 1 6 1

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

Education opener.indd 115

115

26/08/2022 17:08

GORDONS SCHOOL.indd 116

26/08/2022 17:09

EDUCATION • NEWS

Shackleton’s boat

NEW NAME From this school year, The Moat School will be known as Burlington House School. It’s also expanding by opening a prep, just a few minutes walk from the existing Fulham senior. Nicola Lovell, former Deputy Head at The Dominie School is the Headteacher. The school, now part of Cavendish Education, was founded in 1998 by parents seeking a specialist environment to support their dyslexic children.

NEW PREP Abingdon House School, which has a strong reputation for the progress students make within its specialist SEN provision, has announced the opening of a new prep school in South Kensington this September. The prep, for students from Year 3 upwards, will support children’s academic and personal development in a mainstream-style environment.

In the centenary of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s final expedition – and with the discovery of Endurance – Dulwich College reports lots of interest in James Caird, the boat used for a perilous sailing to South Georgia to secure a rescue. It has pride of place in the College Laboratory. Public visits are scheduled during term times every Friday morning. To book, email College reception.

S TA R AU T H O R

SCHOOL BUZZ

The King’s School Canterbury alumna Annabel Steadman (2005-10) has published her first novel, Skandar And The Unicorn Thief, and now finds herself on the New York Times Best Seller List. Already published in 38 different languages and tipped as the most exciting new arrival since Harry Potter, this is the first of a planned five-book series.

A bee-friendly garden designed by Joe Swift and shown at RHS Chelsea Flower Show is to be rehomed by St George’s Church of England Primary School in Camberwell. It features a variety of nectar-rich flowers, while an Automated Pollinator Monitoring machine, known as a Polly, will enable the RHS to compare pollinator numbers at the school to other sites in the area.

Top Story

Boarding prize Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate (QE) received Boarding Innovation Award at the BSA Supporting Excellence Awards 2022 for its Houseparent Assistant App that helps streamline admin. Lauren Blakeley, Head of Boarding, says: “It has transformed the job of Houseparent here at QE. It allows more time to be spent with the students, which is vitally important to us”.

JUNIOR HEAD James Allen’s Girls’ School has appointed Victoria Goodson as Head of Junior School. She takes up the new role this September, succeeding Finola Stack who held the post of Head from 2007. Goodson has joined JAGS from Sydenham High School GDST, where she was Head of the Prep School from 2019. Prior to that, she was a Deputy Head at Newton Prep in Battersea.

SOMETHING THEY SAID

“IF YOU WANT CREATIVE WORKERS, GIVE THEM ENOUGH TIME TO PLAY” JOHN CLEESE

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

SCHOOL NEWS.indd 117

117

26/08/2022 17:09

MAIDA VALE_28-Aug-2022_ABSOLUTELY LONDON.indd 118

26/08/2022 17:17

MAIDA VALE_28-Aug-2022_ABSOLUTELY LONDON.indd 119

26/08/2022 17:18

A rounded

VISION With a new Head, Victoria Harding, joining Repton Prep this September, we ﬁnd out more about her approach and the school’s central place within the wider school family B y LIBBY NORMAN

epton has always been a destination school, with its UK and international reputation built on academic rigour and that finely balanced approach that turns out well-rounded pupils ready for the world. Its setting adds allure – ‘heart of England’ Derbyshire turf, convenient for key airports and roads but far enough away from cities to provide fresh air and room to grow, all the way from 3 to 18. The setting may be rural idyll, but it’s always been an outward-looking place. Repton was, after all, a pioneer internationally, with schools within the family now numbering seven across the Middle East, China, Malaysia and Europe. Back on Derbyshire home turf, Repton Prep and Repton School inhabit distinct (and equally glorious) sites. The Prep is a newcomer compared to its 16th-century sibling, having been founded by Repton in 1940 and then moving to Foremarke Hall a couple of miles away in 1947. There’s always been a strong tie, cemented in 2020 when the two schools formally merged under

120

the Repton name. This was to maximise academic and extracurricular opportunities and ensure a cohesive experience for those Prep students and parents who choose the through-school route (and some 90% do). Of course, pupils who choose to go elsewhere are welcomed equally, and equally well prepared for the onward journey. The imminent arrival of Victoria Harding as Head of Repton Prep this September brings a fresh face at the helm, and much

excitement. With good reason, for Harding comes with stellar credentials. She’s a trained musician (Royal Academy of Music) and headed up the music department at Dragon School, Oxford before top leadership roles in London, including Sarum Hall. Repton Prep will be her third headship. She has a teacher’s perspective on what makes the pre-prep and prep stage so rewarding. “I love this age group because you really see such a huge journey for each child, right from the foundation through to when we move them on to their senior school years.” She also appreciates the diverse teaching skillsets. “It affords you a wide range of staff and teaching abilities – those top two year groups, as well as the starting out point.” Since her appointment last December, Harding has been busy getting to know Repton Prep, and also immersing herself in the wider strategic vision of the whole family of schools. What she is not doing is setting anything in stone until she has: “lived and breathed it” for a while. “A huge part of informing my strategies will happen when I’m there, speaking to the staff and putting

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

REPTON.indd 120

26/08/2022 17:09

EDUCATION • REPTON

“Through schools offer a consistent approach and that ability to shape education in a way that works for the beneﬁt of the pupils”

THE SCHOOL SITE OFFERS BOUNDLESS OUTDOOR LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

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

REPTON.indd 121

121

26/08/2022 17:10

Ambitious Join us now at an open event

habsboys.org.uk & habsgirls.org.uk

HABS.indd 122

26/08/2022 17:11

EDUCATION • REPTON

PREP BOARDING OFFERS FLEXIBLE OPTIONS IN A FAMILY SETTING

those ideas together with that wider vision.” What Harding can say now is that her main goal is to “refine and improve” rather than lose any elements that give Repton Prep its unique identity. “I’ve been really thinking about the school values: respect, wholeness, truth and excellence. That’s at the heart of what I’m planning; making sure that these are evidenced in all aspects of school life.” Harding counts Repton Prep’s 55-acre setting in Foremarke Hall as one huge USP. “That’s where Repton Prep has a huge appeal, and a huge appeal to me – there is just such opportunity for hands-on learning,” she says. “Lots of schools talk about it, but there is the genuine opportunity to deliver that here.” Hands-on learning is a keystone of what she believes creates a well-balanced curriculum. “I often talk about transferable life skills and using the curriculum to create those, but when you’ve got the space we have, I don’t think you can underestimate the power that brings.” Then there is Repton Prep’s boarding offer, an inextricable part of the culture and life of the school and a key area of focus. Repton does boarding extremely well,

CRICKET AT REPTON PREP

AT REPTON SCHOOL, SOME 70% OF PUPILS ARE BOARDERS

“Our ‘rounded, grounded, unbounded’ tag line really does encompass what Repton is about – we want boarding to remain at the heart of that” and the options from Year 3 – before full boarding kicks in at senior level – fit in with family life. Currently, some ten per cent of Prep boarders are full boarders, with more opting for flexible options. There’s a strong local demographic from across the region, alongside full boarders drawn from across the UK and internationally. Weekly boarding (where children go home after school on Saturday) is often used as a stepping-stone for full boarding. Then there’s ‘Home and Away’, where children go home on Wednesdays and Saturdays (although Wednesdays is tuck night after sports fixtures so school often trumps home). Flexi-boarding is also offered; often younger pupils, these boarders have their own boarding house but still get to feast on the award-winning food and tap into the huge number of clubs and extra activities after hours – from girls’ football and Warhammer to backgammon, sailing and chemistry club. It’s no surprise that many children choose to board at Repton Prep, since it offers scope to take full advantage of every element of its extracurricular

smorgasbord, as well as enabling them to throw themselves into teams, rehearsals and all the other after-school activities that are part of a rich school life. Not that day pupils are ever left out. Core to the approach throughout is that day pupils are integrated into the boarding houses in what Repton describes as a ‘one community’ approach. By senior stage around 70% board. Boarding is definitely a key element of Victoria Harding’s strategy. Indeed, she sees it as central to the spirit and pastoral approach here. “I’m sure you know our ‘grounded, rounded, unbounded’ vision, and we need to ensure our outcomes support our commitment to that ideal. It’s such a good tag line because it really does encompass what Repton is about, both as a physical building and what we can offer, and in the spirit of the children. We want boarding to remain at the heart of that.” She sees a particularly essential role in the grounding that Year 7 and 8 boarding delivers. “It’s such a critical time for young people, so we are homing in on what we provide for them, and how we A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

REPTON.indd 123

123

26/08/2022 17:10

EDUCATION • REPTON

VICTORIA HARDING

use those two years as a springboard.” Young people’s wellbeing is always front of mind for parents and educators, ever more so since the pandemic. This concern is – anecdotally – being reflected in school choices. Parents’ desire to provide stability, and also take the ‘heat’ out of that leap between prep and senior settings is being cited. It’s certainly something that Victoria Harding sees as a factor in decision-making. “Through schools offer that consistent approach throughout and that ability to shape education in a way that works for the benefit of the pupils.” The through-school setting at Repton is not about removing stretch and challenge – far from it – but about providing all of that within a stable environment. The structure of boarding houses across both Repton Prep and Repton helps, as it is one of ‘vertical integration’. With 24/7 pastoral support from house parents within a family setting, this vertical design means familiar faces across age groups, helping pupils to belong, to expand friendship groups and also to learn from each other. It is rather like giving everyone siblings – boarding house families look out for one another. Victoria Harding can’t wait to get started and relishes the learning opportunities at

REPTON PREP IS AT FOREMARKE HALL, SET IN 55-ACRE GROUNDS

Repton Prep come September. “Something I’m very big on is outdoor learning and independent learning,” she says. The opportunity to help children catch up on the experiences that are a normal part of life is a priority. “There were all those opportunities children missed during the pandemic to go out and about,” she says. “I’m not talking about lavish school trips, but outings to bring learning to life. “Another key area for me is about community and sustainability, and that outlook of considering who we are as a school and what we do in our community,” she says. “It’s important that the Prep is outward facing and that it remains part of that wider Repton and local community – also helping to deliver all those transferable and handson skills that our young people need.”

SOME 90% OF REPTON PREP PUPILS GO ON TO REPTON SCHOOL

AT A GLANCE

Repton Prep School Founded: 1940 Head: Victoria Harding, from September 2022 Gender: Co-ed Number of pupils: 400 Day or boarding: Day; Boarding from 7+ Ages: 3-13 Points of entry: 3+, 4+, 11+ and in-year admissions Admissions: Non-selective. Interview and early registration advised Religious affiliation: Church of England, all denominations welcome and many festivals celebrated. Fees: Pre-Prep Boarding, per term – £7,750; Day, per term - £5,662. Prep Boarding, per term – from £8,455; Day, per term – from £6,369. Address: Repton Prep, Milton, Derbyshire DE65 6EJ reptonprep.org.uk

Repton School Founded: 1557 Head: Mark Semmence, since 2019 Gender: Co-ed Number of pupils: 620 Day or boarding: Day; Boarding Ages: 13-18 Points of entry: 13+, 14+, Lower Sixth and occasional in-year admissions Admissions: Non-selective. Interview and early registration advised Religious affiliation: Church of England, all denominations welcome and many festivals celebrated. Fees: Boarding, per term – £12,721; Day, per term – £9,437 Address: Repton, Derbyshire, DE65 6FH repton.org.uk

124

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

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

REPTON.indd 124

26/08/2022 17:11

“

Being at Lancing has allowed me to be my best.

BOOK YOUR VISIT AT LANCINGCOLLEGE.CO.UK LANCING PREP.indd 125

Be inspired Be brilliant Be you 26/08/2022 17:11

OAKHAM.indd 126

26/08/2022 17:11

EDUCATION • INSIDER

GIRL POWER Rushi Millns of Heathﬁeld School on how we overcome bias, giving girls the conﬁdence to speak up and aim for the top in public life

ince 1918, when women were granted a somewhat limited power to vote, the majority of policy and law has continued to be written by men and naturally reflects their bias. To level the playing field and ensure fair representation in politics and the working world, we need to give girls the tools to voice their opinions and break the bias. Gender bias starts young – girls are told to sit nicely and behave while boys are encouraged to be noisy and boisterous. This has parallels in the adult world too; vocal women are labelled ‘bossy’ or ‘shrill’, whereas vocal men are just ‘determined to get their point across’. The more opportunity, support and guidance young women have to share their ideas, the more expert they will become in the future – whether that’s holding discussions in departmental meetings, representing an organisation or speaking in Parliament. Alongside the necessary qualifications, communication skills and what the individual brings to the job are the essentials for success. At Heathfield we recognise the importance of building confidence, communication skills and an open-minded approach to new experiences. We want our students to be critical thinkers who can discuss and view issues from different perspectives. To ensure they are informed about politics and current issues, our Careers and Outreach department

“The more opportunity and guidance young women have to share their ideas, the more expert they will become in the future”

HEATHFIELD SCHOOL PUPILS

hosts various programmes to promote discussion, debate and public speaking. Our Speaker’s Corner is an opportunity for students to speak publicly about a topic they feel passionate about for two minutes without questions, sharing their opinion and declaiming about it – rather like Speakers' Corner in Hyde Park. The topic that resonates most with the students is then used for our School Debate in the Summer Term, when opinions and ideas are challenged and debated. Later in the Michaelmas Term, in celebration of Parliament Week, we host a ‘Question Time’ with a student panel taking topical questions from the audience, which includes local politicians from the three main political parties. We also have a Speaker Programme to introduce new ideas and broaden experiences for our students as they learn about the world of work. Professionals are invited to come and speak about their work and experience, and the students start to develop their networking skills. We still need to overcome the barriers

that prevent girls and women from speaking out or seeing themselves in top jobs – and that was the theme of this year's International Women's Day, with the hashtag #breakthebias. Of course, we need to be sure we are building the skills, knowledge and understanding that enable informed decisions. We need our young people to think critically and raise their voices so their thoughts and opinions are heard. We must also teach them to first look at their own assumptions, to bring the bias to the fore and question it. To achieve equality, there can be no automatic assumptions.

R U S H I M I L L N S FR SA Director of Careers and Outreach Heathfield School, Ascot A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

HEATHFIELD.indd 127

127

26/08/2022 21:29

ST DUNSTAN'S WORKSHOP IN 1900

S LOOKING AHEAD

Forward-thinking, future-prooﬁng St Dunstan’s College encourages students to be active participants in an ever-changing world

128

t Dunstan’s College, in Catford, south London, has championed a forward-thinking approach to education for over a century, with the opening vision of the school in 1888 being to provide a curriculum ‘in advance of the present time.’ The school’s first head, Charles Maddock Stuart, was a pioneer in heuristic education and designed the school's laboratories. St Dunstan’s was one of the first schools in the country to have laboratories and to devote significant time to hands-on scientific-practical experiments for students to innovate and ‘do’, rather than passively observe. St Dunstan’s continued to champion student-led learning before the 20th century, with fieldwork in geography, mathematical applications, and conversation classes in modern foreign languages, so that a St Dunstan’s education would empower students to be active participants in the world. Subsequent heads diversified the curriculum further; Frank Forder introduced outdoor activities and sports, and John Usherwood took great efforts to update the college’s wider facilities to prepare pupils for whatever challenges lay ahead. William Hecker’s belief in resilience and creativity saw the college thrive during the various evacuations of the Second World War. Today, St Dunstan’s modern senior school curriculum builds on the legacy of these four founding heads. Students entering the college embark on an educational journey of curiosity, studying a wide range of subjects. They are encouraged to commit to a variety of co-curricular activities, not just those they arrive more confident in, before specialising in the older years. The school believes that this wide-ranging and ambitious approach to education sets up a lifetime of inquisitive independence, allowing students to approach new and challenging concepts with courage and conviction.

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

ST DUNSTANDS ADV.indd 128

26/08/2022 17:11

EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

“This wide-ranging and ambitious approach to education sets up a lifetime of inquisitive independence”

HEAD NICK HEWLETT WITH SENIOR SCHOOL STUDENTS

Last year, St Dunstan’s marked the opening of the most significant developments to the school grounds. A new Junior School, STEM Centre for Excellence and Innovation and Sixth Form Centre were opened. The college’s forwardthinking approach is now matched by modern, bright, and inspirational facilities. Most recently, the school celebrated winning Independent Senior School of the Year at the Tes Awards 2022, which are known as the Oscars of Education. Judge David James said, "There’s a very clear and coherent vision of what they want to do, both with the curriculum and the local community. The head is asking interesting questions of the sector, including areas like privilege and responsibility, which go beyond the usual platitudes. It’s a really interesting school in a tough market, trying to not just survive but actually make something different for the children and families they’re working with." St Dunstan’s has also been praised for its forward-thinking approach to the challenges of recent years. Following an unprecedented two years of ongoing uncertainty and thought-provoking discussions posed by Covid-19, the Black Lives Matter movement and Everyone’s Invited, St Dunstan’s head, Nick Hewlett wanted to create a working group that would directly support the equality and diversity policy of the school. THE SCHOOL'S STEM CENTRE FOR EXCELLENCE AND INNOVATION

ST DUNSTAN'S INNOVATIVE CURRICULUM IS AHEAD OF ITS TIME

In 2021, the St Dunstan’s Diapason was launched – a new umbrella structure for pupil-staff partnership, the purpose of which is to ensure that the school builds an ongoing strategy for the whole college that celebrates and promotes the benefits of diversity; audits and enhances diversity; and builds a culture of equality for all. The Diapason has started with five main pillars, with a view to expanding this over time. These first five pillars will be focusing on: sexual orientation, sex and gender, religion and belief, and disability. Each pillar has a staff lead and a student lead, who work with staff and student champions within each area of interest. The leads hold regular meetings with the champions, staff and students to further the work of the Diapason. Each pillar is also encouraged to work alongside key charities and other outside organisations, where necessary. The Diapason also liaises with governors, speaks with parents, and supports the pastoral team in finding solutions to problems when they arise. The groups have already made significant developments in each area of college life. The religion and belief group have carried out an audit across the school of people’s beliefs, and have planned for a ‘quiet room’. This will be used as a space by faith groups at various times and will also offer a place of reflection for non-believers. The race group have also made positive changes to school life. Working closely with the Junior School and local

bookshop, Moon Lane Books, the team have coordinated a more diverse book range to be placed in the junior library. The leads have also worked with the catering team to ensure a diverse range of holidays are celebrated on the menu, such as Chinese New Year, Divali and Eid. The disability group are also aiming to raise awareness of different disabilities. Using assemblies, tutor time, student parliament and the school’s digital signage, the group have informed students and staff about ADHD awareness month, Dyslexia Awareness Week and World Spine Day. Alongside the Tes Awards’ win, the school has been shortlisted for eight awards at the upcoming Independent Schools of the Year Awards, including one for ‘Outstanding initiative’ for the Diapason working group. Last month, St Dunstan’s also celebrated record-breaking A Level results. 29% of all A Level grades were A*, with 63% either A* or A, and 88% of grades were A*-B. Speaking about the excellent results on the day, Jonathan Holmes, Deputy Head (Academic) said; "Our Sixth Form Diploma programme puts academic excellence at its core; this is a very proud day for us all here at St Dunstan’s" ST D U N STA N ’ S C O L L E G E Find out more at the whole school open day on Saturday the 24th of September, or the Sixth Form Open Evening on Tuesday the 4th of October. www.stdunstans.org.uk

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

ST DUNSTANDS ADV.indd 129

129

26/08/2022 17:11

Wizard

PL AY

A once fictional game is finding a loyal following among students. We catch up with QuidditchUK to find out the state of play

uidditch – that game in Harry Potter that required wizard powers and real broomsticks – has, by some strange magic, become a sport. Not only that, but it's played in some 40 countries and with a set of rules and grassroots approach that make it fast-paced, fun and with a great sense of community. In fact, if you are looking for a case study that ticks boxes for 21stcentury sporting ideals around inclusivity, quidditch would be a good place to start.

130

By LIBBY NORMAN

It emerged when a couple of Vermont college students set out to take the rules from the Harry Potter books and codify them to create a game Muggles could play. This was back in 2005, and since then it has developed structures, nationally and internationally. QuidditchUK (QUK) started out playing to those Vermont rules, but it is now a full member of the International Quidditch Association. Other active nations include Canada, Chile, Australia, Argentina, Turkey and several European countries. There are emerging and associate members spanning the globe, from Japan and Pakistan to Uganda and Vietnam.

As a full member, QUK participates in rule making and changing – ensuring the game works as it continues to grow. Beck Throup, QUK Media Director, began playing the sport while she was at University of Bristol and believes the secret of its growth is the community spirit involved. "It's a well-loved sport – a small community of a few hundred players in the UK, but it's such a tight community," she says. It may be diminutive but it's gathering momentum and QUK recently hosted its national championships involving a community league for the first time, alongside the university league.

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

QUIDDICH.indd 130

26/08/2022 17:11

EDUCATION • QUIDDITCH

“There's a lot happening on the pitch in quidditch – It's essentially a cross between rugby, dodgeball and wrestling” When you consider that a full team complement is 21 players (due to the number of substitutions), you get the sense of what an inclusive activity this can be. Also, and this is vital, it's mixed sex and with scope for every body type. "There's no stereotypical quidditch player. I'm five foot two and then you've got six-foot rugby lads – you've got so many different ways of playing the game and so many tactics involved that it always ends up fairly evenly matched. The only thing that tends to affect the outcome is if one team doesn't have its full roster of 21 players." Throup was drawn in, like a lot of people, by the idea of playing a game she'd read about. "I did love the Harry Potter books and I met the captain of the quidditch team at a party and I promised I'd come to training – and about a year later I showed up!" She enjoys the fact that this is a game of equals. "That's important to us to a degree where it's actually in the international rule book. We have a Gender Rule, where you can only have four people of any one gender LIVERPOOL AND MANCHESTER FIGHT IT OUT AT THE HOOP

WARWICK VS OXFORD AT THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

on the pitch at any one time. Referees and officials are made aware of all the players on each team's gender for when they are subbing on and off." This ensures a balance of weight and strength or, as Throup puts it: "You don't have a team of seven rugby lads on the pitch at any time". QUK is building a youth outreach programme to work with younger players – including through schools who want to organise games or taster sessions. There are also, curiously, a fair few enquiries from stag and hen parties who want something different. "There's a lot of goodwill," says Throup. "Even when people retire from play a lot of them stick around in the community and volunteer, as well as coming to tournaments. These volunteers are essential to running the sport." Watch a game in play, and you can see why people stick around – there's a lot happening on the pitch. "It's essentially a cross between rugby, dodgeball and wrestling," says Beck Throup. "It's great fun to watch." There's enough complexity in quidditch to keep those who love rules in clover, while those who don't will still find it thrilling, if mystifying. With seven players on each team in play at any time, the aim is to outscore opponents by getting the quaffle (a

volleyball) through one of three opposition hoops. Each team defends their own hoops with tackles and bludgers (dodgeballs). The game ends when the winning team has a legal catch on the snitch (a neutral player, who enters play 15 minutes in wearing what is effectively a tennis ball in a sock attached to the back of their shorts) or when one team has a 30-point lead. You can understand why students love it: fast, fun and a bit wacky – you play while holding what is effectively a broom handle between your legs in homage to the fictional game. While quidditch is, at 17 years old, a newcomer, it's looking ahead. One current discussion centres on whether the name should be changed. "As we're moving away from 'oh there's that sport in the Harry Potter books', it will be interesting to see where we go," says Beck Throup. A two-year goal for QUK is to get quidditch recognised here as a sport. So, next stop the Olympics? Beck Throup believes there's a fair way to go yet. But then again, 30 years ago no one would have bet on skateboarding or BMX earning Olympic stripes. For quidditch fans everywhere, there's everything to play for – and they're also having a wizard time. quidditchuk.org

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

QUIDDICH.indd 131

131

26/08/2022 17:11

TASIS.indd 132

26/08/2022 17:11

EDUCATION • COMMUNICATION

Speech

DELAY

Parents often wonder if their child’s development is on track, but one of the most problematic areas is speech and language. We ﬁnd out about sources of support

here isn’t a parent on the planet who doesn’t worry at some point if their child is on track. Milestones are monitored and alarm bells ring when other children appear to have key skills your child is struggling with. Children do, of course, develop at different paces. But on top of existing concerns about the impact of screen use in early years, now we have two years of intermittent lockdowns to contend with. This is raising concerns among experts as well as parents about speech, language and communication skills – especially for our youngest learners. Trips on the bus, exposure to family members and visits to play settings all help children acquire language. It’s not just speaking that matters, but understanding what others say. Speech therapist Amy Loxley, a Lead Speech & Language Advisor for the children’s communication charity I CAN, believes lockdown deprived children of many of the usual routes for developing communication. “Even that requirement to stay close to home and have limited contact with others has deprived children of a range of social experiences,” she says. “This is the range of experiences you have in early life where you’re exposed to new words.” A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

SPEECH DELAY.indd 133

133

26/08/2022 17:11

EDUCATION • COMMUNICATION

A FIRST PRACTICAL STEP FOR PARENTS CONCERNED ABOUT SPEECH DELAY CAN BE TO TRY SOME SIMPLE TECHNIQUES AT HOME

There’s now some evidence to support the idea that this has led to an increase in speech and language issues. “I CAN undertook some research last year, published in a report called ‘Speaking up for the COVID generation’. We found in that research that there are 1.5m children in the UK who are at risk of not being able to speak and understand language at an age-appropriate level,” says Amy Loxley. Certainly, referrals for communication difficulties have increased – noted by both the Department for Education and speech therapists. I CAN develops intervention programmes used in mainstream schools, as well as running two specialist schools for children with complex language difficulties. A lot of their work with mainstream schools centres on Developmental Language Delay (DLD). This is a condition unconnected with any other conditions that can cause lifelong issues speaking and understanding others. “It affects 7.6% of children – another way of looking at that is two in every class of 30 – so is actually quite common,” says Amy Loxley. The other key group that I CAN works with is children who have language difficulties due to environmental factors – in other words, the setting they are in. This group is much larger

in areas of disadvantage. “One in ten children across the UK has a difficulty with speech and language, but that can rise to one in four in areas of disadvantage,” says Amy Loxley.

failure to do what’s asked. “Sometimes that’s interpreted as something else – people think it’s a behaviour problem, when it’s actually the child not understanding language.”

WARNING SIGNS

GETTING SUPPORT

One of the big questions for parents is: do I need to seek help? While no one wants a label on their child, the fundamental building blocks need to be in place. “Language skills underly all skills, so even when children learn to read and write, that’s based on them understanding and using spoken language,” says Amy Loxley. I CAN runs a free phone advice service where parents can talk to a speech and language therapist. Typically, parents ring for advice because they have noticed that their child uses less words or simpler words and sentences than their peers. It could be that a child’s speech sounds jumbled or muddled up, so that it’s hard to understand. Less commonly, parents may recognise their child is having trouble understanding what is said to them – often this isn’t spotted so early. It might be trouble following an instruction, for instance, or a teacher reporting that the child doesn’t listen in class or isn’t getting work done when asked. The issue here can become complicated by how adults view this

If parents are worried and believe they may need expert support, the team at I CAN can explain the steps for getting a speech therapy referral via the NHS or privately. Usually, the first recommended step is approaches to try at home. They include going a bit slower when you are talking and making comments rather than asking questions – a technique to open up dialogue without putting undue pressure on a child. As to screen time – that other great worry – expert guidance suggests that the less children have in early years the better. TV (or other device) is never a substitute for the learning provided by good old-fashioned play and interaction. That said, children love screen time, and so watching an ageappropriate programme with your child and discussing what’s going on with them is a way to make this an active experience that builds communication skills. The other great route that helps children get into speaking and understanding language is books, using the same sharing approach. “Relate things in the book back to their experiences – it’s all about drawing those connections for your child.” For more guidance and support about speech, language and communication, visit I CAN’s talking point for parents at ican.org.uk

“There are 1.5m children at risk of not being able to speak and understand language at an age-appropriate level” 134

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

SPEECH DELAY.indd 134

26/08/2022 17:11

Set in more than 220 acres of beautiful North Yorkshire countryside

Call to arrange a private tour or join us at our next Open Day on 1st October

Welcoming day students from 3 months to 19 years and boarders from Year 3

Over 80% of our students go on to their first choice university

81% A*/A achieved at A Level

Rated ‘Excellent’ by ISI 2019

Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate “To be the best that I can, with the gifts that I have.” www.qe.org | admissions@qe.org | 01423 333330 | York YO26 9SS

QUEEN ETHELBURGA.indd 135

26/08/2022 17:11

Whole School Open Day Saturday 24 September Sixth Form Open Evening Tuesday 4 October Find out more at www.stdunstans.org.uk ST DUNSTANS.indd 136

Stanstead Road London, SE6 4TY 26/08/2022 17:11

EDUCATION • FOCUS

Finding BALANCE Whether it’s through their teaching, pastoral support or boarding, St George’s Ascot go above and beyond

t George’s Ascot provides an ambitious, connected, relevant and future facing education designed for girls between the ages of 11-18 years. It is a place where girls flourish academically, creatively, physically and morally; a place where risks can be taken, lessons are learnt, and challenges are welcomed. Complementing their day girl places where pupils can select from a comprehensive private bus service are their boarding facilities, which range from flexible to weekly to termly. Boarding is homely and comfortable, and an experienced team of House Staff organise an array of evening and weekend trips and excursions ranging from theatre and museum visits, as well as the frequent boarders’ fire-pit nights with the new pizza ovens and ‘come dine with me evenings’. Socially all the girls regularly mix with other young people at Eton College, Winchester, and Harrow. There is no such thing as a typical St George’s girl as each of their pupils arrives with her own set of talents and interests; what binds them are their values and vision. It is their privilege to encourage every Georgian within their strong community to develop a genuine understanding of who she is and support her to achieve the future of her choice. The alumnae community continues to make the school extremely proud of the impact they have in the world, and regularly feedback that their experiences at SGA helped them to shape, define and find their own pathway in life. St George’s girls are ‘Confident, Capable and Connected’: • Confidence is fostered through learning in an all-girls environment, trying new things and developing a strong sense of self through their time at the school.

• Capability is harnessed through exposure to a plethora of opportunities, allowing for excellence in academic studies, sports, music, drama, artistic and creative pursuits. • Connected to themselves and the world around them, St George’s girls know how to use their skills and talents to look upwards and outwards and make a positive impact. Recent alumna Grace says: “There’s something our Head, Mrs Hewer, really focuses upon, and that’s the idea of balance. When you go out into the real world, life isn’t just about your work, your job. You do need to have that balance, you need to connect with people, see your family, see your friends, do sport and do the things you love as well. That balance is something you learn from a young age at St George’s.” ST G E O R G E ' S A S C OT The school runs a series of open events every term. Email Admissions@stgeorges-ascot.org.uk to arrange your visit

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

ST GEORGE'S ASCO.indd 137

137

26/08/2022 21:29

ARTSED STUDENTS

GENERATION

Communication This is the social media-savvy, connected generation, but that brings its own problems. Post pandemic, we catch up with leading independents to ﬁnd out how they manage real dialogue, foster kindness, and also ensure conﬁdent teamwork and face-to-face meeting points among their young people

138

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

COMMUNICATION.indd 138

26/08/2022 17:11

EDUCATION • COMMUNICATION

UCS, Hampstead

CS in Hampstead follows four Learning Values of responsibility, relationships, resilience and resourcefulness. There’s a big emphasis on encouraging pupils to listen to one another and be bold in sharing their thoughts and opinions. “Our pupils’ willingness to question and challenge, and engage in clubs, societies and community projects, creates such a stimulating atmosphere,” says the school’s Director of Wellbeing Bimba Kumarasinghe. Within the co-curricular framework pupils are given support to take ownership. With 70-plus pupil-led clubs and societies, including debating, Model United Nations, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and Young Enterprise, a spirit of enquiry feeds into the fabric of the school. Students run these clubs for peers and younger age groups, also stepping up to responsibilities such as House Captains. They also drive the annual Community Action fundraising initiative – and are very good at it. A recent example of this is a pupil-led fundraiser for Ukraine, which raised £5,000 in less than a month. “Through being involved in co-curricular activities, pupils acquire new skills but also develop character and discipline and appreciate the importance of camaraderie,” says Headmaster Mark Beard. Developing empathy and listening skills is critical to building a strong moral sense,

MENTORING IS ENCOURAGED AT UCS

ONE-TO-ONE TIME AT QUEEN’S COLLEGE, TAUNTON

and UCS works for an “unambiguous culture of equality” in which the student body is closely involved. Pupils are encouraged in this through teaching and mentoring younger children, both at UCS and at local partner schools. In particular, Sixth Form students play a key role in ‘paying it forward’ by helping younger pupils. “There are numerous mentoring schemes and our peer education project trains Sixth Formers to teach lessons on wellbeing and mental health to Year 7s,” says Deputy Head Pastoral Andrew Wilkes. This, alongside their input into fundraising (organising events and choosing charities) helps to build a culture of service – also an understanding of the bigger issues. The spirit of looking after others is, says Headmaster Mark Beard, a critical element in developing outwardlooking young people. “We foster social responsibility alongside respect for the individual. Pupils are taught humanity, understanding and empathy.” Here too, the element of broadening young people’s horizons – showing them life beyond their small circle – helps to foster the kind of communication skills needed for their futures. “Varied experience beyond the classroom serves to nurture and champion creativity, aspiration and individual talents,” says UCS Assistant Head Co-Curricular Jessica Lewis.

Queen’s College, Taunton

t Queen’s College, Taunton the focus is on creating a culture in which students are comfortable in class settings and able to communicate and share freely. This is helped by both the small class sizes and the structure of teaching and learning. “Every pupil is provided with a chance to communicate in every lesson,” says Head of College Julian Noad. “Collaborative activities are carefully structured to ensure that each pupil plays their part in expressing ideas, responding to others’ views, and taking the opportunity to lead.” Within the wider curriculum, there are plenty of opportunities to mix and share, with performing arts opportunities a priority and sports and outdoor education used to develop ‘people skills’ and leadership potential. There’s lots of focus on fun, but also using these platforms to develop young people’s strengths. Alongside the benefits drama brings in building confidence, other forums include Model United Nations, debating, academic societies and discussion platforms such as Book Club. Queen’s College’s Debating Society is a particularly useful means of helping students develop listening skills and A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

COMMUNICATION.indd 139

139

26/08/2022 17:12

“At UCS there’s a big emphasis on encouraging pupils to listen to one another, value each other’s input and be bold in sharing thoughts and opinions” empathy, ensuring an atmosphere where pupil contributions are welcomed and acknowledge by their peers. “The ultimate ambition for many pupils is prefectship, with its opportunity to ‘give back’ and earn genuine leadership and people skills,” says Julian Noad. Mentoring is also encouraged, where there is a pastoral or academic need, while PHSE sessions encourage informal discussions and discovery opportunities. Formal and semi-formal settings can also be a valuable way of giving young people confidence and the weekly ‘tea parties’ with the Head and his wife, plus Sixth Form dinner parties at the Head’s House, offer a means to support confident communication. Students often lead visitors round the school, support social events at the school and take the lead on charity initiatives. Boarding here has a vertical approach, in which students get to know pupils from their House of different years. This, says the College, encourages interaction with different age groups, peer leadership and also team working. There is also a strong role for young people in looking out for each other – Queen’s College runs a highly successful ‘Talkabout’ group to help those who need support interacting with others.

QUEEN’S COLLEGE, TAUNTON STUDENTS

A STUDENT AT MORE HOUSE

More House

ore House in Knightsbridge sees confident communication as a top priority. Girls are encouraged to speak up in and out of class. Head Faith Hagerty says that the traditional ‘hands up’ approach does not serve every child well so the school uses differentiated questioning to encourage whole-class participation. An in-house specialist in Speech and Language Therapy works with specific pupils, as recommended by the SENCo or other teaching staff, and this nurturing work helps everyone to develop key skills in questioning, listening and conversing. Whole year group singing facilitates pupils finding their voice, while LAMDA lessons offer individual pupils or small groups the opportunity to explore voice through character. The school’s Debate Club also provides a platform for developing skills in clarity of expression and use of language. Variety is key here, since a non-competitive environment helps some pupils while others thrive in a more public forum. As a Catholic school, More House talks openly about love, and this naturally leads on to discussions around the importance of

empathy. Pupils are encouraged to practise effective listening, and this is modelled by staff – the school believes young people must feel listened to in order to be good listeners. Leadership opportunities are offered that go beyond the scope of everyday school life. More Holidays, the school’s programme of holiday courses, involves sixth formers in areas from finance to marketing and operations. Students are also invited to assist in the delivery of courses for younger children, developing workshop ideas and leading a variety of games and activities. They also liaise with parents, which requires excellent communication skills. This initiative gives pupils of all learning profiles a chance to shine. There are, of course, ongoing concerns since the pandemic, but More House sees this as a problem with a solution. “What we are seeing is a generation of young people who have missed out on growing up around their peers,”, says Head Faith Hagerty. The school has worked closely with pupils to address this, using opportunities such as the co-curricular programme, concerts and productions so that pupils mix freely outside of their own year group. “We must help our young people to value their own worth more than their online presence,” adds Faith Hagerty.

“At More House, pupils are encouraged to practise effective listening, and this is modelled by staff – young people must feel listened to in order to be good listeners” 140

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

COMMUNICATION.indd 140

26/08/2022 17:12

EDUCATION • COMMUNICATION

Cumnor House, Sussex

t Cumnor House, Sussex, a co-ed day and flexible boarding prep close to Haywards Heath, the staff place real importance on building close relationships with pupils and their families. This is a vital formative stage, so it’s all about understanding how children learn best and how to provide both challenges and support. The team say that strong relationships provide an environment of safety and security, giving children the confidence to try new things. The school believes it is important not to see the extra-curricular and the academic as discrete because, done well, they are intrinsically linked and bring education to life. The focus here is on an individualised approach that sets the right goals for pupils, no matter where their strengths and weaknesses lie, as well as teaching the importance of community and the role everyone plays within the Cumnor community. The school motto, ‘Aim High, Be Kind, Dare to be Different’ permeates every aspect of school life and is constantly reinforced through lessons, assemblies and interactions. Pupils have timetabled Wellbeing lessons each week – a safe space to discuss what constitutes a healthy relationship and what it takes to be a true friend. In Wellbeing lessons and ICT, significant time is spent helping children look at the way they engage and communicate online – an even more important element

CUMNOR HOUSE, SUSSEX PUPILS

“Learning to communicate effectively through whatever medium is an essential skill and we spend signiﬁcant time on this at Emanuel” of education in the wake of lockdown when children experienced extensive screen time and isolation from peers. Parent seminars support the work with children, some led by staff and others by external speakers. The Cumnor approach is that instilling healthy online habits and open communication at home are crucial at this stage – children’s experience of being online should be positive, formative and shared. Enabling children to connect with traditional childhood freedoms is also intrinsic to the Cumnor approach. The school’s 65-acre site provides plenty of opportunities to embrace outdoor learning – from alfresco drama and time in the Reading Garden to scientific exploration in the Woodpeckers, its school in the woods. Outdoor learning is used to teach skills and values such as cooperation, problem solving, risk taking and leadership. There are also the unforgettable pleasures of just being together having fun – lighting fires, den building and toasting marshmallows.

Emanuel School

A “

t Emanuel, the importance of the relationship between students and members of staff is emphasised, whether that be with a form tutor, subject teacher, head of year or member of senior staff,” says Deputy Head Pastoral Ravi Kothakota. The Battersea co-ed encourages students to speak up on both school and wider societal issues. “Students need to know they feel heard and listened to on issues that relate directly or matter to them. We place a significant focus on ensuring all students are provided with opportunities to express themselves,” he adds. There are lots of opportunities for students here to make a mark. Assembly presentations, Drama lessons and regular plays and performances give a creative outlet. There are also public speaking competitions, weekly form discussions, debating clubs – even a film club for aspiring directors, actors and presenters. Alongside the school council and A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

COMMUNICATION.indd 141

141

26/08/2022 17:12

EDUCATION • COMMUNICATION

ARTSED STUDENTS DEVELOP EMPATHY SKILLS

ArtsEd

EMANUEL SCHOOL PRIORITISES PUPIL VOICE

“At ArtsEd, exposure to rehearsal and performance builds a natural conﬁdence in students and helps develop listening and empathy skills ” nutrition review groups – which include representatives from all year groups – there are groups where pupils can formally discuss gender equality and mutual respect, race and diversity and LGBTQ+ matters. These provide platforms for pupils to drive tangible change, and this year an impact video including each pupil voice group was shared across the school community. Emanuel’s House system provides opportunities for pupils to mix across year groups, with the oldest pupils supporting and mentoring the youngest. Students can be appointed to leadership positions, achieve awards (House colours) and

EMANUEL CHAMPIONS MUTUAL RESPECT

take part in a range of hotly contested competitions. Team sports are, of course, vital to the life of the school, with large numbers of students taking part in competitive fixtures. “Our co-ed House sport competitions ensure that girls and boys learn how to communicate with each other as part of team activities and not just within the classroom,” says Ravi Kothakota. Emanuel places great emphasis on respect across the community. “Learning to communicate effectively through whatever medium is an essential skill and we spend significant time on this as part of our Life Education programme.” The goal here is to prepare students for the modern world. “The role we play as a school is encouraging young people to connect away from their screens, while simultaneously introducing them to the many possibilities that technology presents,” adds Ravi Kothakota. Sixth Formers recently watched the film I am Gen Z, exploring the impact of social media. Many have volunteered for a school trial and will be reporting back – the goal being to shape an approach where agency in use of mobile phones is emphasised.

oung people at ArtsEd need less encouragement to express themselves than in most other schools, since this is an independent with a stellar reputation for training stage and screen talent. Students are here to pursue their love of performance. “All ArtsEd students are driven by a passion to express themselves, be it through drama, music or dance,” says Head of Day School & Sixth Form, Matthew Bulmer. He says this is a setting which inspires communication between students. “The performing arts – and I think sport is another good example – force young people to engage with one another physically and emotionally.” Without this dynamic learning in class, it would be impossible, in his view, to excel. “Rehearsal and performance builds a natural confidence in students and helps to develop their listening and empathy skills. This does not make them immune to moments of anxiety or doubt, nor does it mean that they are impervious to the temptations of social media, but their immersion in the performing arts gives them both the resilience to deal with difficult situations and the desire to focus on the moment.” One area where some may lack confidence when they arrive is in more traditionally academic subjects, but the confidence and creativity nurtured in vocational lessons gets carried across into all areas, helping them to exceed their own and others’ expectations. “A creative education allows young people to develop the skills necessary to thrive in the modern world,” says Matthew Bulmer. “The mobile phone isn’t going anywhere soon, but through the healthy, creative interactions that are a daily part of ArtsEd life for our students, it can become an extra to the day-to-day, not a lifestyle choice.”

142 | A B S O LU T E LY E D U C AT I O N | SUMMER 2022

COMMUNICATION.indd 142

26/08/2022 17:12

THE MOAT SCHOOL.indd 143

26/08/2022 17:12

North Bridge House

Join our Saturday Open Day Fairs

North Bridge House is on a constant journey of getting to know and understand every child as an individual, realising their true academic and personal potential through specialist provision at every school stage. NURSERY & PRE-PREP WEST HAMPSTEAD 2 - 7 YEARS SATURDAY 17 SEPT

NURSERY & PRE-PREP HAMPSTEAD 2 - 7 YEARS SATURDAY 1 OCT

PREP SCHOOL REGENT’S PARK 4 - 13 YEARS SATURDAY 24 SEPT

SENIOR HAMPSTEAD 11 - 16 YEARS SATURDAY 17 SEPT

SENIOR CANONBURY 11 - 18 YEARS SATURDAY 24 SEPT

Book an open day or private tour at northbridgehouse.com/open

NORTH BRIDGE SCH.indd 144

26/08/2022 17:12

EDUCATION • PROFILE

seconds with

Andrew HAMMOND

The Headmaster of Hall School Wimbledon (HSW) on his background and educational approach Q What is your background? A I have worked in education for 25

years and have served in both the independent and maintained sectors. My roles have included Headteacher, Deputy Head, Director of Studies, Housemaster, Head of English and class teacher. I have also served as a Common Entrance setter for the ISEB and as English Leader for the IAPS. Prior to joining Hall School Wimbledon (HSW), I was Senior Director of Learning & Community at Discovery Education, leading on professional development. Outside school life, I have written over 30 titles for various educational publishers and regularly speak on creativity and character education. In my spare time I write fiction. Q What excites you most about your role at Hall School Wimbledon? A HSW is a school that aligns with the values I have espoused all my teaching career: namely that we must look at the whole child in front of us and concern ourselves with their personal development as much as their academic attainment. At HSW, we value health and self-worth above everything because we know it leads to self-discipline, which in turn leads to students reaching their potential. School is the arrivals lounge for life,

“Rather than asking ‘How smart are you?’ it is important to ask ‘How are you smart?’ – we work hard to enable every child to ﬁnd their ‘element’ at HSW”

ANDREW HAMMOND

and we need to equip pupils with all the tools they need. One component of that is their academic education, but that is just one component – which is why viewing the whole child is so important Q What is your academic philosophy? A I believe that rather than asking ‘How

smart are you?’ it is important to ask ‘How are you smart?’. HSW pupils make up a lively community of budding scientists, artists, dancers, authors, musicians and athletes and we work hard to enable every child to find their ‘element’ and to feel valued for who they are and the unique contribution they bring to the school. Many pupils will discover talents at HSW which they never knew they had, such is the privilege and pleasure of working here. Q What is Hall School Wimbledon’s approach and what sets it apart? A We are proudly co-educational, multicultural and non-selective and I believe

it is our pastoral care and emphasis on health and wellbeing that defines us. I have always believed the mark of an excellent school is the nature of the relationships between staff and students – and here at HSW we pride ourselves on the good humour and care that exists between everyone in the building. Q What makes a great student? For me, great students have a spirit of adventure, a thirst for knowledge and a kind and caring outlook. Q From your experience, what makes a great school environment? A A supportive school culture makes for a great school environment. At HSW, our ethos and values are focused on the health and self-worth of everyone in our community. This ensures our culture is kind and caring, enabling our students to feel happy and valued and able to reach their full potential. A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

60 SECS HALL.indd 145

145

26/08/2022 17:12

ST BENEDICT’S SCHOOL ST BENEDICT’S SCHOOL a

m i n i m i s

i n c i p e

Outstanding CatholicaIndependent m i n i m i s i School n c i p efor boys & girls aged 3 -18

Outstanding Catholic Independent School for boys & girls aged 3 - 18

OPEN MORNINGS w

NURSERY AND JUNIOR SCHOOL - Tuesday 20th September OPEN MORNINGS NURSERY AND JUNIOR-SCHOOL – Tuesday 20th September SENIOR SCHOOL Thursday 15th September SENIOR SCHOOL – Thursday 15ththSeptember WHOLE SCHOOL - Saturday 8 October WHOLE SCHOOL – Saturday 8th October

Please Register Here:

www.stbenedicts.org.uk Absolutely Magazines - full page.indd 1

ST BENEDICTS.indd 1461 SBS_210x297_AW.indd

06/07/2022 13:30:04

26/08/2022 28/07/2022 17:12 15:17

EDUCATION • WHY STUDY

Design

TECHNOLOGY ADELE CRABTREE Northwood Senior Adele Crabtree is Director of the Arts at Broomwood Hall and Head of DT at Northwood Senior. She graduated from Canterbury with a degree in 3D Design and worked as a designer for almost a decade in a WPP branding consultancy before turning full circle to inspire the next generation of designers.

Makers, inventors and problem solvers need ﬁrm foundations to set them on their way and Design Technology is the subject that opens career doors – from engineering to fashion and product design. Two experts in the ﬁeld give us their elevator

JAMES BUXTON Framlingham College James Buxton is Director of Design & Technology at Framlingham College. After a BA in Furniture & Product Design at Nottingham Trent University, he worked in the design industry before a PGCE and Master’s in Education at Cambridge. He is most excited by mid-century modern furniture and sustainable design. A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

WHY STUDY DT.indd 147

147

26/08/2022 17:12

EDUCATION • WHY STUDY

Q What makes Design

Technology so brilliant? AC: Everything in the world that every human interacts with that isn’t organically grown has been designed. A problem is identified, and solutions created. Designs evolve, adapt and improve the world in which we live. This is exactly what each child learns to do in DT.

DESIGN TECHNOLGY Fast Facts

properties or technology can be learnt along the way. A flexible mindset and the ability to see opportunities in the ‘mistakes’. JB: Students practise the design process – the ability to identify problems, research, plan, create and reflect. This translates well in any area of study or industry and enables them to apply their skills with creativity and confidence in other contexts.

JB: It is the most liberating, empowering subject – students gain more than just making skills, they also develop creative thinking skills, genuine autonomy, and ownership of their learning journey.

Q What pathways does it open?

AC: There are too many to list here. As a STEM subject they can move into design, engineering, or CAD (computer aided design). Careers are as diverse as fashion designer,

Q What made you choose it?

AC: The opportunity came, and I grabbed it with both hands. DT is creative, technical, challenging. Seeing a pupil’s ideas coming to life and guiding them is hugely rewarding. JB: I love the freedom and variety. Every lesson brings new challenges and ideas – all to be solved or realised by exploring and experimenting. A studio of ten to 15 students all working on completely different projects is so engaging.

Q And transferable skills and knowledge?

AC: Skills of problem-solving, collaboration and evaluation. Knowledge of material

3 FAMOUS DESIGN GRADUATES: Sir James Dyson, Jony Ive, Stella McCartney 5 STUDY HOTSPOTS: Royal College of Art, UAL, Dundee, Plymouth, Loughborough WHERE DESIGNERS HANG OUT: The RSA (Royal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce) is meeting point for designers, makers and problem solvers. thersa.org

“Careers are as diverse as fashion designer, rocket scientist, branding designer, architect. packaging or furniture designer and structural engineer” rocket scientist, branding designer, architect. packaging or furniture designer and structural engineer. The broader importance of DT lies in helping pupils to think laterally and creatively and work in teams – important skills for the modern workplace irrespective of what you end up doing. JB: Design is everywhere, now more than ever. Equipped with creative skills and selfefficacy, pupils are advantaged in careers ranging from engineering and architecture, to design for film and TV and UX. Q Two things students might not

realise Design Technology covers AC: GCSE DT is not just ‘making.' A large proportion is theory, where you can apply knowledge from other STEM subjects – and you don’t need to be able to draw! If you can get your ideas across to engage someone else, then that’s all you need. Computers and Visualisers are used in industry to help with this. JB: The Climate Crisis and social issues like inclusion – Design Technology graduates will be the ones to solve these problems in the future, I hope! 148 | A B S O LU T E LY E D U C AT I O N | XXXXX 2018

WHY STUDY DT.indd 148

26/08/2022 17:12

HERNE HILL.indd 149

26/08/2022 17:12

Senior School Open Morning Saturday 24 September

Sixth Form Open Evening Thursday 6 October

Prep School in Action Week 10 - 14 October

Lingfield College is a vibrant and successful independent day school for ages 2 - 18. Blending academic excellence, supportive pastoral care and a rich programme of co-curricular opportunities to inspire, motivate and nurture every pupil. 40 acres of fields and woodlands in Surrey Specialist teaching with an individual approach Outstanding A level & GCSE results Rated EXCELLENT in all categories. ISI 2017 Bursaries, Scholarships and Awards available

St Pier's Lane, Lingfield, Surrey 01342 . 838153

www.lingfieldcollege.co.uk

LINGFIELD COLLEG.indd 150

26/08/2022 17:12

EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

"Spectators will see and hear these competition cars at close quarters"

BROOKLANDS CONCORDE, DELTA GOLF

Fasten your

SEATBELTS There is still plenty of family fun to be had this Autumn at Brooklands Museum

rooklands Museum has been a visitor favourite this summer, with thousands of people descending on Brooklands to step-backin-time to a bygone era, taking to the Paddock Lawn to enjoy traditional games, ice cream, and one of the (famous) vintage car rides around the iconic race track. With the final events of the season still to come, and plenty of family fun to be had during half-term, there will be something for everyone this autumn. Our ever-popular Emergency Services Day returns on 11 September. Say thank you to some of the heroes of our country and get up close to traditional and modern-day fire engines, police cars and ambulances. And don’t miss the chance to meet some furry heroes, as PAW Patrol pups Chase, Marshall and Skye join the activities for the day. Then Brooklands Autumn Motorsport Day on the 9th of October, in Association with Ginger Beer Promotions, will be celebrating motorsport. They will be put through their paces on the adjacent Mercedes-Benz World circuit and Test Hill will be in action. As ever, spectators will have the rare opportunity to see and hear

these competition cars at close quarters. The half-term week takes you back to the early days of aviation, when Brooklands pioneered aircraft and pilot training, with their ‘Air Heads’ family workshops, activities and tours. Meet the legends of the air, as the costumed storytellers bring to life the tales of Brooklands’ aviation pioneers. After a nearly 3-year break, the Museum team are getting ready to launch the new range of premium experience packages, starting with the Concorde Simulator days. The Brooklands Concorde Simulator is the only working machine in the world and has trained Concorde pilots for British Airways. The Museum is easily accessible by car or train, parking is free and there’s plenty of picnic space available, and a café to purchase food and drink. Family tickets start at £29.60 but you can enjoy Brooklands Museum for the entire year with family memberships starting from just £65.00. You can also choose from a selection of gift vouchers, perfect for Christmas presents, and share the wonderful experience of Brooklands with someone special. If you haven’t had a chance to visit Brooklands Museum yet, make sure you put a date in your diary to see what all the excitement is about. Advance price tickets should be prebooked at www.brooklandsmuseum.com

BROOKLANDS’ RECORD-BREAKING NAPIER-RAILTON

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

BROOKLANDS MUSEUM.indd 151

151

26/08/2022 17:12

GREEN TEAM Putney High School's Biophilic Classroom project has produced fascinating ﬁndings about nature's ability to enhance both wellbeing and learning

utney High School's Biophilic Classroom study is a first – showing a clear route to improve a sense of wellbeing and even productivity in the classroom through the power of plants. It began in 2019 as part of the school's wider Breathe programme (begun in 2018), which considers a whole raft of areas that feed into wellbeing. "Little did we know how relevant our findings would become," says Headmistress Suzie Longstaff. "What started as a four-month project over the winter to monitor the effects of bringing plants, natural materials and views of nature into the indoor learning environment took on a new relevance with the arrival of spring, as the pandemic confined us in our homes." The study's starting point was a NASA Clean Air Study of 1989, which had looked at how plants contribute to improving air quality. At Putney High, the students used air sensors to complement their research and, for the first time, could identify the exact ratio of plants needed to improve air quality – it's one plant per six cubic metres. The biophilic project resonated not only with the students’ wider interest in the environment cultivated via the Breathe programme, but also tied into science (air quality studies) and art (botanical natural form studies) activities. During Covid, the project was transferred to the Futures Hub in the school's Sixth

152

PUTNEY HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS TEND THE PLANTS AND PROPAGATE MORE

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

PUTNEY BIOPHILIC.indd 152

26/08/2022 17:13

X X X X• WELLBEING / XXXXXX EDUCATION

Form Centre, where the plants were cared for by staff and students. But by this time, the whole project was blossoming. The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) asked the school to share its research in the Discovery Zone of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. This had been postponed due to Covid and took place in September 2021, where the school display attracted lots of interest and even picked up a coveted Gold Medal. Growing the plants had, by this time, become a whole-school affair, with the offspring of the school's original indoor garden being grown and nurtured for Chelsea Flower Show in the Junior School. They were re-housed after the show in the Reception classrooms, so the youngest pupils were also benefiting from the roll-out of the project. All this green-fingered industry has honed the

“Students reported feeling healthier, and that everyone was calmer and more relaxed”

students' gardening knowhow and tapped into sustainability ideals – they have watched as plants have produced more plants to extend the calming and air-cleansing benefits of indoor nature. The biophilic research has now been used to inform the design of Putney’s Athena Centre for Science, Music, Drama and Debating – opened to students earlier this year and officially launched by Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock at the start of May. The ripples of Putney High's work have spread wider. Ahead of RHS Chelsea Flower Show the project was featured on BBC Gardeners' World. “I was incredibly impressed to see the work, and importantly the enthusiasm, that the students of Putney High School demonstrated with their research for improving their environment with plants," said Presenter and Garden Designer Arit Anderson. The school has made its findings available, producing a useful 'Plant Guide for Schools', showcasing houseplants to grow in both low-light and bright-light indoor environments, plus atmospheric and air-cleansing properties of each plant selected. It has given out more than 10,000 copies so far, suggesting many more schools are tapping into the benefits of using greenery to improve classroom

atmosphere and student wellbeing. At Putney High, there's no doubt about the payback in student wellbeing. The impacts of the Biophilic Classroom study were monitored via student surveys, and 78% of students reported feeling healthier, and said that plants have helped to create an environment where everyone feels calmer and more relaxed. "But it has had an even greater impact, helping students and staff to really engage with their lessons, which of course has had a positive impact on teaching and learning," says Headmistress Suzie Longstaff. "It’s been wonderful to see the whole school engaging with the project, learning about the plants, caring for them and even cultivating them," she adds. With an Ecologist in Residence on the cards for the school, there seems little doubt that students' biophilic investigations are going to be a green benefit for the long term, both for the school and the wider community. "It has started us on a whole sustainability project of 're-wilding' Putney!" says Suzie Longstaff. For Putney High School's 'Plant Guide for Schools', visit putneyhigh.gdst.net A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

PUTNEY BIOPHILIC.indd 153

153

26/08/2022 17:13

New Hall and Music School Now Open www.benenden.school BENENDEN SCHOOL.indd 154

26/08/2022 17:13

EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

“Boarding schools have come a long way since those tales of cold showers”" DAISY AND SAM COOPER, HOUSEPARENTS AT GORDON'S SCHOOL

YEAR 7 BOARDERS CELEBRATE THEIR FIRST YEAR

Boarding SUCCESS Houseparents at Gordon's School give their advice on helping ﬁrst-time boarders settle in and thrive

oarding schools have come a long way since those tales of cold showers and huge dormitories. Dedicated staff now guide students as they navigate social interactions, mentalhealth issues and meeting the high expectations of school, all the while being away from home for the first time, starting in a new school and living with 30 other peers. Today's students often describe boarding as ‘one big sleepover’, a ‘home from home’. Secure and friendly, it is where they not only flourish academically, but learn tolerance, resilience, discipline and independence – and make lifelong friends. Free time is

packed with activities. With the benefit of large grounds and facilities, they can enjoy the company of hundreds of others – with older students becoming sibling figures. At Gordon’s – recently named TES Boarding School of the Year – Year 7 boarders are accommodated in Woolwich House, with us as Houseparents. Getting to know our new charges begins months before their arrival. During in-person meetings or Zoom calls, we glean as much information as we can about each child so they can be helped to settle in quickly. For their part, parents are urged to prepare their children before they arrive by increasing their independence, reducing their dependence on mobiles and encouraging them in practical tasks and chores such as making their own bed. Mobile phones are limited in the junior house and removed from students for their first three weeks (although children may use the house phone to phone home during this time), an action supported by the vast majority of our parents. The reasoning behind their removal is to encourage friendships. It’s easy for children to sit in a corner with their phone if they’re feeling self-conscious but without one,

they are making friends and learning how to gel with those in their House. Phone usage is gradually increased, but often once these much sought-after privileges arrive, they are ignored in favour of spending time playing with friends In the early stages, the children are kept busy. If they’re playing rounders or ‘capture the flag’ then they’re building relationships through play and are less likely to dwell on home. However, homesickness is always going to crop up – usually at bedtime. Then they come downstairs and are soon on the sofa talking it through with a warm drink. They also support each other in their bunk beds – that is how they develop those lasting friendship bonds. Each new boarder is assigned a buddy from a year above, to guide them through their first year and on to their senior boarding houses. Independence and organisation are encouraged from the start – if they can get that sorted in their first year, it will be easier in the long run and allows them to focus on their academics and sports. Similarly, if they are active rather than passive – be it looking for ‘lost items’ or keeping their dormitories tidy – they are solving problems for themselves and are in control. This, in turn, gives them confidence. A bell wakes them up for the first half of their first term, but after that they are given an alarm clock and become responsible for waking themselves up. They are all ready for their senior houses at the end of the year, looking forward to more independence and with the skills and maturity to deal with the next stage of their boarding journey. A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

GORDON'S SCHOOL.indd 155

155

26/08/2022 21:30

Drama IN ACTION

Southbank International School Drama Teacher Kym Martin on the power of performing arts to deliver skills that last long after the action on the stage By KYM MARTIN

156

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

SOUTHBANK DRAMA.indd 156

26/08/2022 17:13

EDUCATION • TALKING HEAD

TEAMWORK AND DISCIPLINE ARE CORE TO THE DRAMA PROCESS

tudents at Southbank International School recently performed The Addams Family Musical, postponed from February 2021. The musical was a glorious success and was the first time in two years that the whole school community was able to come together. Having been a Drama and Theatre teacher for 27 years, it was one of the most magical experiences I have had in the profession. It also further consolidated my firm belief in the power of performing arts to equip young people with the confidence and life skills for their future, whatever path they choose.

EXPLORATION AND EXPERIMENTATION

Drama and Theatre provide a platform for exploration and experimentation. That’s the reason a play is called a play – not a ‘work’ – because it enables you to be imaginative, creative and expressive, and crucially, to take risks and move outside your comfort THE PERFORMING ARTS BUILD SELFBELIEF AND CONFIDENCE

zone. This links directly to real life, where people are forever having to take risks and embrace change. As human beings, we often find change difficult but, in truth, change is the only certain thing in life. In our classes and rehearsal rooms, we embrace change amid the realisation that there is no right or wrong in Drama and Theatre, only choices to make in a creative journey. The performer/audience relationship also plays a key role in helping to develop students’ ability to evaluate and to take on board constructive criticism. As part of the IB Diploma Theatre assessments, students are given feedback from the audience in the form of talkback sessions or written responses. This active collaboration equips students with the self-confidence to give and receive feedback graciously and – importantly – to consider how to take their work forward. This is an invaluable skill for later in life, as they will inevitably meet people with different perspectives to their own. Through this collaborative relationship and art form, we can ask big questions about life and what it means to be human. Building on this, performing arts foster a greater sense of collaboration among young people, helping to teach them that, while they won’t always get on with everyone they work with, they can always problem solve and find ways to work together. This is true not only in the workplace but in private life and across society as a whole.

CONFIDENCE AND SELF-BELIEF

Above all else, the performing arts foster confidence and self-belief in young people. I’m always in awe of the way in which students are able to stand up in front of their peers and share their ideas and performance skills. Drama and Theatre demand that they use their whole being as their instrument – intellect, emotions, body and voice. This is an incredibly brave thing to do and takes training to get better at, but something I’ve come to understand is that young people are not often marred

“Drama and Theatre demands that they use their whole being as their instrument – intellect, emotions, body and voice” by the fears that adults tend to accrue as they get older. This self-assurance is bolstered by the safe environment we set up in the drama classroom, a safety net where students feel comfortable, happy and encouraged to try new things. In the 20 years that I have been teaching in the UK, I have had several dozens of DP Theatre students attain places at Russell Group Universities and at US colleges such as NYU, Brown and Vassar. These students have gone on to study a wide range of courses. First-hand feedback from university admissions is that they welcome the breadth of study that taking Theatre at the Diploma level can give students and are impressed by the confidence with which Theatre students demonstrate the highly transferable skills that are desirable to these universities. Studying performing arts also fosters discipline and focus, two essential skills for study and for life. With digital innovation accelerating the pace of change at a faster rate than ever before, studying Drama and Theatre places an onus on personal connection and sharing a sense of common humanity which, in simple terms, is nothing short of ‘being human’. So, as the world continues to change and the scholastic focus remains on encouraging digital skills through the study of STEM subjects, let’s not forget the enormous power of performing arts in preparing young people for a brighter future. A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

SOUTHBANK DRAMA.indd 157

157

26/08/2022 17:13

Empowering girls to forge their own path. Visit us to discover more. sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net SYDENHAM HIGH SC.indd 158

26/08/2022 17:13

EDUCATION • ACTIVITY KITS

D E L I V E R L E A R N I N G SUBSCRIBE TO HOURS OF FUN WITH THESE KITS

E N G I N E E R AWAY KIWICO

With subscription kits for every age and stage, KiwiCo will encourage your child to think outside the box. Choose from 1,500 science and arts projects, as well as great creative gifts for babies and toddlers. kiwico.com

G E T G R OW I N G MUD & BLOOM

This gardening subscription box will be sure to get your kid’s hands dirty. Created with 3-8 year-olds in mind, each box is packed full of seasonal nature crafts, as well as lots of fun outdoor activities. mudandbloom.com

BE MINDFUL

H A PPY C R A F T B OX

The activities inside this subscription box will do more than just keep your 4+ child entertained, they can help support their long-term emotional wellbeing and develop new mindset skills. happycraftbox.com

S TAY I N S P I R E D ARTFUL

Artful is a quarterly subscription box that will nurture your 12+ child’s artistic flair. Every quarter they are introduced to a new art technique and given everything they need to go create. artful.co.uk

APRONS ON FOODINI CLUB

Parents of picky eaters, this one is for you. Foodini is a seasonal subscription box designed to get the whole family in the kitchen, learning useful cooking skills and embarking on foodie adventures. foodiniclub.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

TOP 5 ACTIVITY K_SEPTEMBER 2022_ABSOLUTELY LONDON.indd 159

159

26/08/2022 17:17

200 pupils at Dulwich have free or subsidised places

Join us at our Open Events Book your place dulwich.org.uk/admissions Pupils are encouraged to be and do everything

Entry into Years 3-6 (ages 7-10) Mrs Polly Twisk, Junior School Admissions 020 8299 8432 junioradmissions@dulwich.org.uk

Entry into Year 7 and Year 9 (ages 11 and 13) Mrs Sarah Betts and Mrs Alison Williams 020 8299 9263 the.registrar@dulwich.org.uk

Bursaries of up to 100% and Academic Scholarships of up to one third of full fees are available. Find out more and how to apply by scanning the QR code.

DULWICH - PANGBOURNE.indd 160

26/08/2022 17:17

EDUCATION • FAMILY PASSES

Y E A R L Y F U N WE'VE FOUND THE BEST FAMILY MEMBERSHIPS

MORE MUSEUMS N AT I O N A L A R T PA S S

Your family will be in for a very cultured year with the National Art Pass. Membership buys you free and reduced-priced entry to hundreds of museums, galleries and historical places around the country. www.artfund.org

HEAD ON OUT N AT I O N A L T R U S T

Let your little ones run free in the UK's most unforgettable outdoor spaces. This membership buys you unlimited entry to over 500 National Trust sites, just think of all the fun days out you could have. nationaltrust.org.uk

A R OYA L A F FA I R E N G L I S H H E R I TA G E

3 5

Give tiny queens and kings a chance to rule over their domains with an English Heritage membership. For an annual fee, your family will get unlimited entry to the charity’s 400+ historic sites across the UK. english-heritage.org.uk

BUCKLE- UP

TR ANSPORT MUSEUM

This membership is sure to please all the members of your family. Older kids can try their hand at driving a bus or tube (simulator) and little ones will love running around the soft play centre. ltmuseum.co.uk

LIT TLE LABS SCIENCE MUSEUM

If your child isn’t already interested in science, a membership to Wonderlab will change that. They will learn all about fascinating topics and may even be able to take part in a live science show. sciencemuseum.org.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

FAMILY PASSES_SEPTEMBER 2022_ABSOLUTELY LONDON.indd 161

161

26/08/2022 17:19

ST GEORGE’S SCHOOL WINDSOR CASTLE

School reimagined Join us at our open event on Saturday 1 October Discover an education that will make your child real-world ready at our leading independent preparatory day and boarding school for ages 3-13.

Real World Ready!

CICERO - SEATON - ST GEORGES.indd 162

St George’s School Windsor Castle Windsor SL4 1QF

enquiries@stgwindsor.org 01753 865553 Follow us @stgwindsor www.stgwindsor.org

26/08/2022 17:20

EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

“We are pleased to be able to say that we've all built a light aircraft” THE COMPLETED MICROLIGHT AIRCRAFT

BENENDEN STUDENTS WERE DELIGHTED TO COMPLETE THE AIRCRAFT

Taking

FLIGHT Benenden Students Celebrate Constructing A Microlight Aircraft

A THE PROJECT TOOK THREE YEARS

fter three years of hard work, Benenden Sixth Form students past and present were able to see their completed microlight aircraft at the Headcorn Aerodrome this month. Having spent so much time working on the construction of the aircraft – delayed by countless Covid restrictions – the young engineers, who worked on the joint project with partner school The John Wallis Church of England Academy, were proud to see their finished plane displayed among a whole host of other aircraft. The Sixth Formers – who were joined by three Benenden Seniors who had worked on the aircraft earlier in its development – were delighted to be able to sit in the plane, and to see their names inscribed on its control panel. Reflecting on the lessons learned throughout the project, Six One (Year 12) student Natalie said, “I’ve learnt

about how a plane works – the most fundamental thing – but also about the importance of teamwork." Her teammate, Six One student Rosie added, “I really enjoyed seeing how the plane is put together, because we don’t often get the chance to see things before they’re finished and complete. It really put into perspective how much effort goes into these things that are in our day-to-day lives.” Benenden staff member David Wellman was instrumental in building the light aircraft. He shares his experience, “this build is a joint effort between Benenden and The John Wallis Church of England Academy, who have worked very hard to a very high standard. "Many inspectors have said as much and have praised all the students involved very highly indeed. We are all very proud of everyone’s efforts and are pleased to be able to say that this time we’ve all built a light aircraft.” The gathering also marked an occasion for the students and staff present to give thanks to everyone involved for their continued dedication and hard work. This engineering project – the second time Benenden has constructed a microlight, following its successful project in 2018 – has been run with the British Microlight Aircraft Association (BMAA) as part of the organisation’s New Horizons scheme. The BMAA funds the project and the school is responsible for building the aircraft in collaboration with John Wallis. benenden.school A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

BENEDEN'S SCHOOL.indd 163

163

26/08/2022 21:30

AIMING HIGH

Explore Mount House in Hadley Wood, North London

OPEN DAY Saturday 24th September

SCAN TO BOOK YOUR PLACE

Inspiring every individual – Small school with small class sizes – Highly effective pastoral care system – Excellent academic results at both GCSE and A level – A wide range of co-curricular activities and clubs – School transport routes to Enfield and Canons Park – For entry at 11+, 13+ and Sixth Form (in-year admissions may be available)

Barnet

Independent

Co-educational

Ages 11–18

www.mounthouse.org.uk / 020 8449 6889 / admissions@mounthouse.org.uk Mount House School, Camlet Way, Hadley Wood, Hertfordshire, EN4 0NJ

MOUNT SCHOOL.indd 164

26/08/2022 17:20

EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

available to them. All they need is a laptop and an internet connection.

IT PREPARES YOUNG PEOPLE FOR REMOTE WORKING Just as children have always been taught how to dress for job interviews and behave in an office environment, they now need to be coached on how to act in a remote working environment. Zoom meetings may be new, unfamiliar territory for those already in the work force, but for people who’ve grown up with E-learning, the challenge of meeting and working with people through a camera is a familiar one.

NO MORE SNOW DAYS

EMBRACING E-LEARNING Sitting in the classroom isn’t the only way to improve yourself...

-learning – it's a phrase that few of us had even heard of a couple of years ago. But since a global pandemic forced schools and universities to move online, E-learning has become a mainstay of education for people all over the world. Like most sudden changes in education, E-learning has been met with some scepticism. But rest assured, as the world continues to change, learning online is here to stay. Rather than trying to deny it, we should be embracing it as a tool which makes education easier to achieve for many people. Here’s why.

IT FITS AROUND YOUR LIFE Remember, E-learning isn’t just for school children. Plenty of adults have turned to online classes to earn qualifications

or satisfy their thirst for knowledge. In the busy worlds of adulthood and parenthood, it can be difficult to find time to attend in-person classes. Learning online in your own home solves this problem by removing the commute and making sure all the materials you need can be accessed at the click of a mouse.

As we saw during the national lockdowns, E-learning can save countless hours of lost schooling. External factors that once may have prevented children from attending lessons such as snow or flooding are now a thing of the past. E-learning means no one ever has to miss out on their education due to factors outside of their control. Of course, E-learning isn’t completely infallible. To learn online you need a fast, reliable broadband connection – one that won’t cut out during a class discussion on Zoom or buffer during a streamed lecture. With Swish Fibre you can get lightningfast Full Fibre broadband directly to your home, no matter how many devices are connected. So you can be learning online while others in your home are watching TV or gaming – you'll still be able to work and learn without disruption or delay. Visit SwishFibre.com to find out more

IT REMOVES ANY GEOGRAPHICAL BOUNDARIES Found the perfect course, but it’s only taught at an institution hundreds of miles away? This is no longer a problem with E-learning. By moving online education has become accessible to everyone, regardless of where they live. This isn’t solely an issue of convenience either. People from developing countries can now access education online that wasn’t previously A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

SWISH.indd 165

165

26/08/2022 21:30

Founded in 1594 Co-educational

•

Ages 10-18

•

Clapham Junction

Entry at 10+, 11+ and Sixth Form Fee Assistance available at all entry points Battersea Rise, London, SW11 1HS

www.emanuel.org.uk

EMMANUEL SCHOOL.indd 166 1 2022 Absolutely Education advert.indd

@emanuel.school

@emanuel_school

020 8870 4171

26/08/2022 17:20 29/04/2022 13:26:17

EDUCATION • PROMOTION

BACK TO SCHOOL A visit to The Eye Place can help your child start the school year with perfect vision

he kids are back to school this month and now is the perfect time to get their eyes tested before they make their return to the classroom. Whilst uniforms and stationary are always at the top of the back to school list, an eye exam should also be a priority, because making sure your child's vision is healthy is incredibly important for thier education and progression. Many children suffer from Myopia, most commonly known as short-sightedness, which can cause problems at school and with their development, and noticing symptoms in children can be difficult as

they may not realise their vision is not ‘normal’, so it is essential to make sure that children’s eyes are tested frequently, between 1 to 2 years is recommended. Parents should be on the lookout for short-sightedness in their children. Some of these include, your child having difficulty reading at a distance, your child sitting closer to the TV or holding a mobile phone or tablet closer to their face and any excessive rubbing of the eyes, headaches, or complaints of eye pain.

Although there is no cure for Myopia, there is a long list of treatment that can help stop it from getting any worse. It is recommended that children spend more time outdoors as there are many benefits from being outside including long-distance focusing, direct sunlight and less time spent on devices. Wearing bi-focal or multi-focal lenses can also help treat those suffering from Myopia, however this largely depends on if your child is able to and comfortable wearing contact lenses with there being no minimum age requirement. Children under the age of 16 – and aged 16, 17 or 18 and in full-time education – are entitled to free NHS eye tests, so its best to take advantage of the free tests to know if your child requires glasses to help them with everyday activities and whilst at school. Myopia is predicted to affect 50% of the world’s population by 2050, currently it affects 30% of people around the world. If you have any concerns about your child’s vision, contact your local Eye Place branch to discuss treatment or if you are interested in finding out more about myopia management for your children. T H E E Y E P L AC E The Eye Place is an independent opticians, with multiple locations across London and the UK. the-eye-place.co.uk

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

ADV THE EYE PLAC.indd 167

167

26/08/2022 21:30

HURSTPIERPOINT.indd 168

26/08/2022 17:20

EDUCATION • THEATRE

A SPEECH BUBBLES DRAMA SESSION

Drama ESCAPE

Delivered through Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge Wells, Speech Bubbles is an innovative drama programme that helps young children come out of their shells

ason Lower can clearly recall one small and petrified girl. Every time she came to Speech Bubbles she would be in tears or close to it. Then, slowly she became a bit less shy and would talk in whispers in his ear, so quiet he could barely hear her. Over the course of the programme, she found her character – a cat. She just loved cats and would act out the physicality and the movements of a confident feline who was the complete opposite of her. Lower has been delivering Speech Bubbles through Trinity Theatre since 2017 and has witnessed first-hand what

a huge difference it can make to children who are struggling to communicate and fit in. The programme at Trinity Theatre, first devised by London Bubble, has now become a separate charity (Lower is both a practitioner and a trustee). It delivers Speech Bubbles in 23 schools across a part of Kent taking in Sevenoaks District, Tonbridge and Malling and Tunbridge Wells and working with children drawn from Year 1 and Year 2. Children are referred by schools (Kent County Council is a major funder, along with the Brook Trust) and there’s strong support among local school leaders who know what it can do. The children it works

with are generally referred by teachers and a school SENCo. The programme aims to address the needs of those who are not on the top of the list for speech and language therapy or one-to-one support, but nonetheless have speech, language and communication needs. “Some of them might be shy, some might be selectively mute; others might be on the other end of the scale – children who communicate at inappropriate times or talk over others.” Each session for ten students runs for about 40 minutes over 24 weeks. Sessions are led by a Speech Bubbles practitioner and a teaching assistant. What’s very important, says Jason Lower, is the mix A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

SPEECH BUBBLES.indd 169

169

26/08/2022 17:21

EDUCATION • THEATRE

“You can perform a new character who you really are. That’s where arts and theatre are a really magical opportunity”

of children – the group is chosen so that there’s a combination of communication needs (not all shy or inclined to dominate) and a mix of year groups. “It’s really important to have a mix – the Year 2s offer leadership and this also makes sure that any classroom dynamic is gone.” So why does drama work so well to help children communicate confidently and appropriately? Lower says it’s the process of getting out of their own skin. “It’s allowing them that escape element – they can escape the pressure of being themselves,” he says. “It’s such a lovely environment because it allows them to come out of their predetermined role – the quiet one, the noisy one. It’s not just about children who have speech and language issues – it’s also allowing children to play.”

SESSIONS DEVELOP COMMUNICATION SKILLS AND LET CHILDREN PLAY

Jason Lower has good reason to know the lifelong benefits drama can bring. He is autistic and it was his time in youth theatre that he credits with giving him confidence. He became a youth theatre director and arts practitioner and now leads the Creative Engagement department at Trinity Theatre. He says drama is beneficial to all young people. “You can perform yourself, rather than a version of yourself that you’re not terribly happy with. You can perform a new character who you really are. That’s where arts and theatre are a really magical opportunity.” Each Speech Bubbles session starts with a chant that outlines to children what the ground rules are, beginning: ‘In Speech Bubbles we do good listening’. Then children put their names in a bucket and the fun begins. The drama they create in that 40-minute session is their own invention, built around things they love to be and act out – princess, zombie, superhero, cat. That little girl who found her confidence by being a cat stayed on for two years at Speech Bubbles as her teachers felt that she would benefit. The second year proved to be invaluable because she knew the ropes and could even help others. She remains a quiet child, but is now much more likely to contribute in class. Trinity Theatre’s youth work doesn’t stop with Year 1 and 2. It has been piloting an exciting drama project called Transitions with children about to move to senior school, and it also works

CHILDREN ARE GUIDED BY A SPEECH BUBBLES PRACTITIONER AND A TA

extensively with teenagers and young adults. Even so, Lower feels Speech Bubbles is extra special, offering an intervention that is perfectly timed to ensure children can build vital confidence and communication skills. “Part of the joy of Speech Bubbles, and part of the joy in prioritising this communication need, is it’s about addressing the need early on,” he says. Post pandemic the demand for Speech Bubbles’ drama sessions has increased almost threefold among local schools, thanks partly to the advocacy of those schools that have seen its transformative effects. While there are Speech Bubbles practitioners in other areas – London and around Manchester and Salford – Jason Lower would like to it available to many more children. “We as an organisation – Speech Bubbles the charity – would love to spread it out through schools nationally,” he says. “I think it’s the best thing Trinity Theatre does, and I’m proud of everything we do.” * Trinity Theatre trinitytheatre.net * Speech Bubbles speechbubbles.org.uk

170

SPEECH BUBBLES.indd 170

26/08/2022 17:21

Where traditional values meet innovative technology Open Mornings 14 September 6 October 19 October morehouse.org.uk

_SEPTEMBER 2022_ABSOLUTELY LONDON.indd 171

26/08/2022 17:25

P I O N E E R I N G F E RT I L I T Y T R E AT M E N T N O W AT T H E P O RT L A N D H O S P I TA L Lister Fertility Clinic has grown and is now accessible at The Portland Hospital, the UK’s only private hospital solely dedicated to the care of women and children. We offer a comprehensive range of fertility treatments, including IVF, egg freezing, egg sharing and more. We’re also specialists in treating low ovarian reserve. If you have a chance of success, we will treat you.

Before you start a family, visit ours.

hcahealthcare.co.uk/portlandfertility 020 3811 6133

PORTLAND HOSPITA.indd 172

26/08/2022 17:21

SPECI A L ISSUE

absolutely-mama.co.uk

In this section:

BACK TO SCHOOL

Starting the new term in style

•

MINI EATS

Toddler friendly recipes

•

ASK THE EXPERT

Parenting tips and advice

•

ORLANDO FOR TODDLERS

P H OTO G R A P H E R : C H LO E L A P E YS S O N N I E / M O D E L : M A R I E CO M PAG N O N

Peppa Pig and more

CUDDLE UP With no knots, buckles (or fuss!), French brand Studio Romeo’s Parma Baby Carrier is made from two loops of super soft 100% organic fabric. Put it on criss cross, pop your little one in, and you’re good to go! Simple, stylish and most importantly super comfy for you and your baby. We’ll take one in every colourway... studio-romeo.com @studio_romeo

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

MAMA OPENER.indd 173

173

26/08/2022 17:21

Pioneers in Early Years Education The Willows Way is an evidence, play-based teaching method that engages all children in deep-level learning. We have created a unique learning environment that uses educational philosophers’ best ideas to create a safe, nurturing and stimulating space for all children to thrive. There is compelling evidence that optimal nutrition, exercise, mindfulness and kindness are key requirements for deep-level learning to occur. We also believe that parents are an essential part of the educational team, and we will work closely with you to foster a love of learning in your children. Willows Pre-School offers a fun, safe learning atmosphere where curiosity, independent thinking, and resilience flourish. We think that education is so much more than simply the subjects we study in school. It’s about gaining a set of mental techniques that will serve us well throughout our lives, such as curiosity, independence,

Wimbledon

Hammersmith

28 Wilton Grove Wimbledon London 3QX SW19

1St Peters Road Hammersmith London W6 9BA

2388 8540 020

020 8741 1424

Colliers Wood Recreation Ground Colliers Wood London SW19 2DU

perseverance, individuality, and balance.

020 8544 9293

Put simply, Willows Pre-school is a place for aspirational

www.willowspreschool.org.uk office@willowspreschool.org.uk

parents that want the very best for their children.

WILLOW PRE SCHOOL.indd 174

26/08/2022 17:21

mam a WELCOME

TODDLER RECIPES P.182

Editor’s

STAMPTASTIC P.177

LETTER

ands up if you still get that backto-school feeling at the start of every September? If you have a little one starting school or nursery this term, we hope you’ll enjoy our back to school roundup including everything from coats and backpacks to shoes and accessories. Elsewhere in this issue, we speak to experts including midwives and obstetricians to answer all your questions about birth and beyond. And finally, we have three healthy recipes from baby and child nutritionist Charlotte Stirling Reed’s new book How to Feed Your Toddler. Her family-style meals are so delicious, you’ll definitely want to try them too. Happy September!

TONIES P.177

STICKY LEMON P.177

C a rly G len di n n i n g E DI TO R

@carlyjglendinning carly@zest-media.com MERI MERI P.177

ON TH E COVER: @studio-romeo studio-romeo.com

Photographer: Chloe Lapeyssonnie Model: Marie Compagnon

TODDLER RECIPES P.182

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

ED'S LETTER.indd 175

175

26/08/2022 17:21

EDX.indd 176

26/08/2022 17:21

mam a E SSENTIALS

STICKY LEMON Large Backpack, £54.98 stickylemon.nl

Back to

SCHOOL

From bags to coats – everything they need for the new term... editor’s pick

MERI MERI Week Day Hair Slides, £15 merimeri.co.uk

BOBUX Brave shoes, £59 bobux.co.uk

STAMPTASTIC Personalised Name Stamp, £11; and Ink Pad, £12 stamptastic.co.uk

LIEWOOD Atlas Parka, £175 liewood.com

we love DJECO Gel Pens, £5.95 tickety-boo.co.uk

SMALL STUFF Hairbands, from £3.50 smallstuffaccessories.com

TONIES X THE ROALD DAHL STORY COMPANY Matilda Tonie Character (Toniebox not included), £14.99 tonies.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

BACK TO SCHOOL.indd 177

177

26/08/2022 17:22

SINGING away the blues

Absolutely Mama finds out how group singing is helping new mothers recover from postnatal depression… Wo r d s C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

f you’re a new mum, you’ve probably sat on the floor of your local children’s centre singing Wheels on the Bus, babies happily rolling around on the floor in front of you. Getting out of the house in those early days can feel like a gargantuan effort though, and you’d be forgiven for wondering if your baby would really be able to tell the difference if you were just singing nursery rhymes in your living room. However, you might be surprised to learn that ground-breaking research from The Royal College of Music and Imperial College London has proved that singing with other mums can have an astonishing impact on the effects of postnatal depression. It’s this research that

178

not-for-profit social enterprise Breathe Arts Health Research used to inspire their free group singing programme: Breathe Melodies for Mums. The weekly sessions aim to support new mums who may be experiencing feelings of stress, anxiety, and social isolation. Led by a specialist arts and health singing leader, you won’t find Wheels on the Bus or Wind the Bobbin Up here; rather, powerful and uplifting songs ranging from folk to gospel and sung in a variety of different languages, allowing participants to build connection through shared experiences and cultures. The results have been astonishing, with one study showing that after just six weeks of singing, mums had experienced a decrease of nearly 35%

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

BREATHE MELODIES.indd 178

26/08/2022 17:22

mam a PARENTING

“After just six weeks of singing, mums had experienced a decrease of nearly 35% in their symptoms of PND"

in their symptoms of PND and 65% no longer had moderate-severe symptoms of PND. One of the mums who has taken part is Jenny, who had a complicated first birth and her son was taken into neonatal care for a week. She had to adjust to being a new parent, without being near her baby. After she took him home, she found herself struggling with progressively low moods and couldn’t understand why at a time when everybody tells you you’re supposed to be filled with joy, she felt so down. “Asking for help is difficult,” she says. “I’d brought a new human into the world. It was a huge adjustment that affected my emotional and mental health. I constantly had the nagging feeling that something

was wrong. I was wondering, what’s going on? Why am I feeling like this?” Jenny felt like this for several months, before hearing about Breathe Melodies for Mums at a baby weigh-in clinic. “I felt so safe in the class,” says Jenny. The group leaders were so warm and welcoming. There was no stigma. We were all just there singing and trying to find ourselves through music.” She found that her mood improved as the sessions went on. “The sessions really increase your energy level and mood which is vital when you have a baby. They reminded me that as a mum, you have to count yourself as important. You can’t neglect yourself.” Ruth had a difficult time after she gave birth too. Her son arrived during the height of Covid-19. Her husband wasn’t allowed in the hospital while she was in labour, and after giving birth she had to quarantine in the hospital as there was a Covid-19 case on her ward. When she finally went home, the winter lockdown hit. “Normally when there is a new baby you have your friends and family around helping with cleaning and cooking, there was none of that”, says Ruth. “We had this beautiful baby we wanted to show off but couldn’t do anything about it.” Once Ruth’s husband went back to work, she really started to feel the effects of being a new mum in the pandemic. “I was at a point where I

was feeling really isolated and alone, I couldn’t speak to others about how I was feeling.” After seeing an advert for Breathe Melodies for Mums on social media she signed up for the classes, which were online at the time due to the pandemic. She began to feel the benefits almost immediately. “Singing is an endorphin hit just like exercise,” she says. “It helps you with your mental health. I always felt better after Breathe Melodies for Mums no matter how I felt at the start. It broke up the same monotonous daily routine of changing nappies, feeding, and putting my baby to bed.” Whilst reducing symptoms of PND, group singing through Breathe Melodies for Mums is also linked with enhanced well-being and self-esteem in mothers, as well as a greater increase in mother-baby closeness and a greater reduction in cortisol levels (the stress hormone) than other mother-baby interventions. This effective intervention has huge potential as a treatment tool and Breathe Arts Health Research and King’s College London are in the process of conducting further research on the scaling up of Breathe Melodies for Mums with a view to embedding it in clinical pathways, strengthening the case for longerterm funding. The hope is to build a case for these singing groups to be available nationally through the NHS, so more new mothers experiencing poor mental health can benefit. As Jenny says, “if you could reach the goal of making it standard for all women to get this kind of support that would be amazing. I would recommend it to any new mums. People don’t realise how powerful the arts can be for your mental health.”

TRY BREATHE MELODIES FOR MUMS TO REDUCE SYMPTOMS OF PND FOR YOURSELF If you’re affected by any of the issues in this article, and you’re based in London with a baby aged 0-9 months, you can join Breathe Melodies for Mums. Their 10-week London programme starts in October 2022. Participation is free.

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

BREATHE MELODIES.indd 179

179

26/08/2022 17:22

NEW

Premium 3-in-1 baby wipes with barrier protection and Aloe Vera

Take a fresh look at Aqua Wipes

A kinder future for changing times Now available in Essentials, Originals and Premium NHS approved | Plastic free wipes | 100% Biodegradable and compostable | Vegan friendly | High purified water content | Kind to sensitive skin and suitable for newborns, including premature babies

Proudly donating to Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity. www.aquawipes.co.uk for information on Subscribe and Save options

AQUA WIPES_SEPTEMBER 2022_ABSOLUTELY LONDON.indd 180

26/08/2022 17:28

mama PROMOTION

“Edx Education has been creating educational toys for schools for over 25 years ”

EDX EDUCATION CREATE 'LEARNING THROUGH PLAY' TOY RANGES

P L A Y A N D L E A R N Edx Education launches a new back-toschool-ready range of educational toys...

or parents wanting to help boost their child’s learning as they head back to nursery and primary school, Edx Education’s www.shopedx. co.uk website is the perfect destination. With an extensive range of award-winning ‘learning through play’ toy ranges, learning has never been so much fun! Working closely with educational experts from around the world, Edx Education has been creating educational toys for schools for over 25 years and are experts in early years education. The ranges have been created to complement classroom learning at home, and include construction kits, active play ranges and maths learning products for hours of educational, screen-free, entertainment. Edx Education’s My Gears® construction range is coming soon. Starting at just £27, the collection includes five kits: Junior Gears (4y+), Starter Gears (6y+), Transport Gears (6y+), Animal Gears (6y+) and Machine Gears (6y+). The range has been designed to spark curiosity and ignite little imaginations, whilst developing early engineering skills – including teaching the basic principles of gears and mechanics – and encourage creative thinking, problem

solving and fine motor skill development. The Transport Gears, Animal Gears and Machine Gears sets have all been awarded STEAM accreditation by esteemed child development expert and founder of The Good Play Guide, Dr Amanda Gummer. The ranges were noted for their extensive play and interest potential, and easy-to-follow instructions in the activity booklets. Children can also enjoy using their imagination to create their own models, demonstrating the limitless creative possibilities and hours of entertainment of the ranges. For car obsessed children, the My Gears® Transport Set includes a guide book with clear instructions to build eight different moving transport models, including diggers, cars and more, which can be played with for hours on end. The set can also be paired with Edx Education’s 2cm linking cubes and 4cm bricks, extending the play potential and creative possibilities for young imaginations. Mini David Attenboroughs will love the My Gears® Animal Set, which includes eight fun and interesting animal models – complete with moving legs, arms and tails! The kit includes an instruction booklet to build each model and as your child’s confidence grows, the open-ended educational toy can

THE MY GEARS® RANGE FROM EDX EDUCATION

be used to get creative, by building unique creatures, whilst developing key problem solving and critical thinking skills. For budding engineers, the My Gears® Machine Set has eight machine models (complete with chains) to build, so they can have fun learning the basic principles of movement and force. Kids can also experiment by linking several gears together with the chain to invent amazing machines that inspire young minds!

E DX E D U CAT I O N For more information on the My Gears® collections, including local and online stockists. edxeducation.com

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

EDX Advertor.indd 181

181

26/08/2022 17:23

m am a PROMOTION

182

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

CHARLOTTE STIRLI.indd 182

26/08/2022 17:27

ma m a RECIPE S

M I N I E A T S Two recipes from Charlotte Stirling Reed’s new book: How to Feed Your Toddler...

Courgette cornbread squares

Prep: 10–15minutes Cook: 25–30 minutes Makes: 20–25 squares

his is one of my favourite recipes from the book – it’s so tasty and makes a great snack, lunch or side, as well as being fab topped with a dollop of cream cheese and some dill or a spoonfull of hummus with some ground pistachios. I love this one on its own though, and it’s now a regular in our freezer. This recipe makes a good amount and packs lots of flavours and textures. I hope your little ones will love it.

veg, and give it a good mix to combine. 5 Pour the mixture into the tin and bake for 25 minutes, or until golden and cooked through. 6 Cool in the tin then transfer to a cooling rack and cut into 20–25 squares. 7 These will keep in an airtight container for 2 days or can be added to your freezer stash.

Ingredients • 50g unsalted butter or dairy-free spread • 4 spring onions, trimmed and finely chopped • 2 courgettes (about 350g), trimmed and coarsely grated • 1 large free-range egg, beaten • 125ml milk of choice • 125g Greek yoghurt • 198g tin sweetcorn, drained • 100g plain flour • 150g cornmeal or polenta • 30g mature Cheddar cheese, grated

DIRECTIONS Preheat the oven to 200˚C/180˚C fan. Melt the butter or spread in a large frying pan, add the spring onions and courgettes and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until soft and cooked down. Leave to one side to cool completely. 3 Mix the egg, milk, yoghurt and sweetcorn together in a bowl. 4 Add the flour, cornmeal, Cheddar, and cooled 1

Spinach monster pancakes

Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 8 minutes Serves: 2 toddlers

his is a fab recipe for getting some veggies in in the morning. Feel free to use whatever fillings you fancy if you don’t have everything I’ve suggested here: tomatoes and peppers can easily be switched for mushrooms and courgettes, for example.

Ingredients For the batter • 1 large free-range egg or 1 • Flaxseed egg (see page 109) • 100g self-raising flour • 80ml milk of choice • Handful of spinach (about 80g), washed • Olive oil, for cooking For the topping • 6 cherry tomatoes, finely chopped • 50g red or yellow pepper, deseeded and finely chopped • 30g Cheddar cheese, coarsely grated or dairy-free alternative (optional)

DIRECTIONS 1 Preheat the grill to the highest temperature. 2 Add all the batter ingredients to a blender/high-speed mixer and blend to make a thick green batter. Leave to one side. 3 Heat a little olive oil in a 20cm ovenproof non-stick frying pan over a medium heat. 4 Once the pan is hot, pour in all the batter then sprinkle over the topping ingredients. Cook for about 2 minutes, then pop the pan under the grill for 5–6 minutes until the pancake is puffed up and cooked through. 5 Leave to cool a little, then slice into wedges, fingers or squares – whatever you fancy.

How to Feed Your Toddler: Everything You Need to Know To Raise Happy, Independent Little Eaters by Charlotte Stirling Reed is out on 29th September 2022, published by Ebury; RRP £16.99

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

CHARLOTTE STIRLI.indd 183

183

26/08/2022 17:27

SCHOOL Tadworth Co-educational school for children aged 2 1/2 –11 years

WORKING OPEN MORNING – “Chinthurst ds the u e eryth Year 2 pupil

ed esday 28 September

Visit us at www.chinthurstschool.co.uk Chinthurst School, Tadworth Street, Tadworth, Surrey KT20 5QZ

A JUNIOR SCHOOL OF REIGATE GRAMMAR SCHOOL

A Junior School of Reigate Grammar School

Co-educational school for children aged 2–11 years

WORKING OPEN MORNING – Thursday 29 September EARLY YEARS OPEN HOUSE – Saturday 8 October Providing outstanding wraparound care for 48 weeks of the year

REIGATE ST MARYS.indd 184

Visit us at www.reigatestmarys.org Reigate St Mary’s, Chart Lane Reigate, Surrey RH2 7RN

26/08/2022 17:27

mama PROMOTION

“Bursting with fruity goodness, a box of raisins counts as one of your five a day.” WHITWORTHS SHOTS

N U T R I T I O U S L U N C H B O X I D E A S Put some feel-good routines in place as your family heads back to school or work…

s little ones head back to school and you go back to work, you might be wondering how you can make your family’s lunch boxes a little healthier. We all know the benefits of five-a-day. However, with our busy lifestyles, it can be hard to work out when and how to fit these in. Fresh fruit can easily get bruised when it’s chucked into your work bag in the morning and veggies take a lot of prep work and can go off quickly (even when in the fridge!). However, did you know that 30g of dried fruit counts as 1 of your 5 a day portions!? Here’s three easy ways you can make your family’s lunches more tasty and nutritious with dried fruit…

1. GRAPE SNACKS Raisins have always been known as a simple and convenient snack for kids’ lunchboxes.

Bursting with fruity goodness, a box of raisins counts as one of your five a day and contains key nutrients for children’s growth and development including vitamin B, iron, and antioxidants. Raisins are also a great source of fibre, helping to keep little ones’ energy levels balanced throughout the school day. Mix them into peanut butter and spread onto rice crackers for a high protein/high fibre snack, or simply have a Whitworths Sunny Raisin pack in your bag for a little snack!

2. WHITWORTHS SHOTS Whitworths SHOTS are a tasty, healthy snack that is great for anytime of the day. Perfect as part of a healthier routine, there’s plenty of yummy flavour combinations to choose from including juicy dried fruit, nuts, and chocolate. A great source of fibre and ideal for lunch boxes, make SHOTS your go-to-goodness as you head back to school or work.

3. SUPER SALADS Adding dried fruit to salads is an easy way to boost nutrition and flavour. Taking inspiration from Middle Eastern and North African dishes, stir sultanas and chopped apricots through spicy pilaf rice or toss them into Moroccan couscous. For days when you don’t have time to prepare a salad, Whitworths Protein By Nature Moroccan Grains is an easy grab-andgo lunch. Ready to eat in 2 minutes, the delicious recipe contains 20g of protein and includes nutritious dates and raisins. #FeelGoodRoutines whitworths.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

WHITWORTHS ADVETORIAL.indd 185

185

26/08/2022 17:27

Anti-colic BOTTLE

clinically proven to reduce colic burping and wind

use with or without vent C

t to g ro w wi

d esi

NEW

breast-like teat

for more natural feeding

CMY

Introducing Dr. Brown’s® Options+™ Anti-Colic Bottle With a breast-like teat and the proven anti-colic benefits of the internal vent system, Dr. Brown’s® Options+™ bottle offers the best possible bottle-feeding experience for your baby. Dr. Brown’s® is the

Choice

of UK Health Professionals for the relief of colicky symptoms.

DR BROWNS.indd 186

www.drbrowns.co.uk

26/08/2022 17:27

mama PROMOTION

GRACO ALL WAYS SOOTHER SWING AND ROCKER

B A B Y L O V E Bringing together the leading experts in postnatal care, the Graco Village is open!

or new parents, the 12-week extraordinary period from birth into parenthood is a rollercoaster emotionally and physically. There’s so much talk about pregnancy and birth but what about this time post-birth, also known as the 4th trimester? To shine a spotlight on the 4th trimester and support new parents, Graco, the baby products specialist, launches ‘The Graco Village’. It brings together leading experts in postnatal care, including The Naked Midwives, charity PANDAS, Lansinoh and maternal fitness expert Nicole Chapman. As well as parenting media, communities, and influencers to provide a destination where parents can get advice and feel less alone. It’s fuelled by new research from Graco which discovered that 87% of dads and 89% of mums feel that the first 12 weeks post-birth are an emotional rollercoaster. 34% of mums were aware it might be tough, but they didn’t expect it to happen to them. 47% of mums suffered with the ‘day three baby blues’ while 56% of dads don’t know even what that is. As part of its support, Graco is also helping parents identify what features to look for in baby products so they offer the most support post-

birth for a mum’s physical repair and wellbeing. Three top products for all new parents are: The portable cot – find a sleep solution for little one that can easily be moved around your home from bedroom to sitting room in those early newborn days when you’re recovering. The Graco Side-By-Side™ is the perfect solution, as it’s lightweight, portable and easily adjusted. Its mesh sides mean you can keep an eye on baby from all angles for added peace of mind. A calming soother and rocker – have a safe and soothing place to put baby down to give you a little hands-free time to rest. The All Ways™ Soother from Graco is the solution. It’s a multi-use baby swing with a clever 2-in-1 design so baby can be moved THE GRACO VILLAGE IS HERE TO SUPPORT NEW PARENTS

GRACO SIDE-BY-SIDE BEDSIDE BASSINET

“89% of mums feel that the first 12 weeks post-birth are an emotional rollercoaster” and soothed like parents do with the 16 different motions or the removable rocker seat can easily be moved around the home. The perfect pushchair – a pushchair with an adjustable height seat can make getting out with your newborn post-birth that bit easier. The Graco Near2Me™ pushchair has three Slide2Me height adjustments, so you can bring baby closer to you when seated or strolling to protect your healing body. For a wealth of expert advice, products and support for the 4th trimester take a trip to The Graco Village today at gracobaby.eu/ uk/graco-village-parenting-support

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

ADV GRACO.indd 187

187

26/08/2022 17:27

THE NEW PEPPA PIG THEME PARK

FLORIDA

FUN Orlando with a toddler? Zoey Goto hits the sunshine state to explore its toddler focused attractions...

188

hink of the theme park capital of the world and images of teens on hair-raising roller coasters may spring to mind. But the unveiling of a new Peppa Pig Theme Park, star attractions for pre-schoolers at Legoland, creative fun at the Crayola Experience and a wealth of familyfriendly accommodation in nearby Kissimmee, means that Orlando is also fast becoming a hotspot for families with younger children.

Kissimmee makes family travel a breeze A home-from-home rental is often the easiest option when travelling with babies and toddlers, with a kitchen on hand for rustling up meals around the clock, clothes washing facilities and space for little legs to roam. At Kissimmee, situated just 25 minutes from Orlando airport, you’ll find a staggering 50,000 rental homes to choose from. If a multi-gen holiday or group trip is on the cards, book into one of the spacious mansions complete with gated gardens and private pools. There’s

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

ORLANDO FOR TODD.indd 188

26/08/2022 17:28

mam a

ES CAPES

LEGOLAND RESORT FLORIDA

also plenty of smaller villas, apartments and townhouses on offer in Kissimmee, many of which have fantastically themed rooms including treehouse beds and Disney character interiors. The Magic Village Yards complex takes the stress out of travelling with children, with an outdoor heated pool, an onsite restaurant and BBQ patios. Take a stroll through Kissimmee’s downtown area, lined with murals and boutique shops and be sure to schedule in a stop at the theatrical Abracadabra Ice Cream Factory, which boasts toddler-friendly bouncy castles in the back yard.

cinema or watch a live show at Mr. Potato’s stage. Alongside rides, there’s also themed play zones, including a splash zone with sprinkling fountains and a changing area. Everything is compact and there’s no lengthy walks between attractions, making it ideal for families with toddlers. The onsite restaurant serves pizza, sandwiches and salads in a picture-perfect retro style diner. Just be sure to save room for the legendary muddy puddle milkshake!

abracadabraicecream.com experiencekissimmee.com magicvillagevacationhomes.com

Everything is awesome at Legoland Resort Florida

The New Peppa Pig Theme Park is Oinktastic Fun for Toddlers Peppa fans are in for a treat with the opening of the world’s first standalone Peppa Pig Theme Park! Aimed at pre-schoolers, this dinky, colourful park brings the hit show to life with six rides, including the thrills and spills of Daddy Pig’s rollercoaster and setting sail to pirate island on Grandad Dog’s boat ride. Little piggies can also catch up on favourite episodes of Peppa on the big screen at the onsite

peppapigthemepark.com/florida

Just steps from the Peppa Pig Theme Park (although ticketed separately), you’ll find the Legoland Resort Florida. It’s an ideal theme park entry point, with plenty of rides specifically aimed at younger children. Head straight to the Duplo area, where little ones can board a train to explore the brick-tacular landscape. The Duplo tot spot is a hands-on play area for under 2s, while the fairytale brook ride offers a tranquil boat ride through a whimsical, fairy tale land of Lego. After a day of non-stop fun, youngsters can tuck into an indulgent portion of granny’s apple fries. legoland.com/florida

LEGOLAND RESORT FLORIDA

Get creative at the Crayola Experience Toddlers will adore a visit to this artistic hub at the Florida Mall, with 27 hands on attractions including a play area and a behind the scenes peek at how the iconic Crayola crayons are made. Be sure to stop off at the onsite photobooth which allows families to become the star of their own colouring book, and grab a snap with the giant Crayola characters. And there are, of course, armfuls of vibrant Crayola goodies and one-of-a-kind souvenirs for sale at the museum’s vast store. Schedule in around three hours for your visit, as this surprisingly large museum is actually bigger than an NFL football field! crayolaexperience.com/orlando

When to visit Orlando With 300 days of glorious sunshine, Florida is a safe bet for year-round warm weather. If you’re not yet constrained by school term dates, take advantage of cheaper flights and a more peaceful atmosphere by avoiding the peak season, which runs from May to August. GETTING THERE British Airways fly directly from London to Orlando, with a flight time of around nine hours. It’s worth noting that if you travel with an infant on your lap on BA, you can choose seating for your group without an additional charge, plus book a carrycot for free to allow babies and toddlers to nap. The cabin crew also often wear Mickey Mouse ears, adding to the fun! ORLANDO MADE EASY: HOW TO DO IT Return direct flights from London Gatwick to Orlando International Airport with British Airways (including luggage) for 7 Nights in a 3-bedroom deluxe villa at Magic Village Yards in Kissimmee, self-catering, full size car hire for duration including all insurances: from £5,149 for a family of four (2 adults and 2 children aged 11 or under). purelytravel.co.uk FOR MORE INFORMATION: experiencekissimmee.com visitorlando.com magicvillagevacationhomes.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ORLANDO FOR TODD.indd 189

189

26/08/2022 17:28

FREE TO BE ME I am smart, funny, brave, kind, curious, unique, creative, energetic, honest, fearless, caring, surprising, determined, playful, musical and a loyal friend.

oday.

just t s ’ t a h t d An

I’m free to be wo nd and wholehearte erfully dly me.

Visit www.bansteadprep.com for information on our open days and personal tours. instagram.com/bansteadprep

Time & Leisure 297mm BANSTEAD.indd 190 x 210mm_FP_Portrait.indd 1

facebook.com/bansteadprep

twitter.com/BansteadPrep

01/08/2022 26/08/2022 14:51 17:28

mama mamaPARTNERSHIP PROMOTION

G R E AT

E X P E C TAT I O N S Meet the expert: Doctor Shazia Malik, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at The Portland Hospital Q What is your area of expertise? A I have 30 years of experience with high risk obstetrics, and I am also a Subspecialist in Reproductive Medicine – hence I often see women for fertility checks, and deliver women who have been through IVF treatment, as well as women with menstrual issues, PCOS, recurrent miscarriage and management of the menopause. I often help with contraceptive choices, and do both outpatient and inpatient hysteroscopies. We often see women for pre-conception advice too. Q What’s it like giving birth at The Portland Hospital? A Birth is a time of excitement and anticipation, rather than fear and dread. Whether our clients are under the midwifery led pathway or have their own consultant, they know that they will have one-to-one personalised care through their pregnancy journey and their birth. We have a resident Consultant Anaesthetist 24 hours a day to help with pain relief and emergencies as well as a Senior Resident Medical Officer on call for both Obstetrics and Neonatology. Our patients know that they will not be left alone in labour, and that they will be helped to recover from whatever birth they have with expert midwives, lactation specialists and physiotherapists. All our women in labour are covered either by their own consultant, or the on-call consultant for

“Birth is a time of excitement”

the midwifery-led team. The self-pay package can include care for your baby if unexpectedly admitted to our on-site Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) from 28 weeks (subject to T&Cs). And we mustn’t forget that partners can stay throughout the labour and birth as well as afterwards. We support women in staying as long as they feel they need to recover and feel confident at home, and our nursery nurses help to care for babies overnight so that parents can sleep and recover before going home. Lastly, our patients love the food! Q How much autonomy are patients able to have in their birth plan? A Both our midwives and consultants discuss our clients’ birth plans throughout their antenatal journey. We are supportive but always advise on an individual basis regarding safe choices. We offer water births, vaginal births after caesarean section, and all kinds of vaginal births. We encourage women to have as normal a labour as possible, but offer all forms of pain relief and medical assistance when and if it is needed. All the birthing rooms have a bath and we use birthing balls/peanut balls when we can. Our clients are able to access an epidural promptly as we have a Consultant Anaesthetist resident 24 hours a day and they specialise in mobile epidurals. Our labour ward takes calls 24 hours a day if any of our clients are concerned either before or after they have given birth. Q In the case of an emergency during labour, what kind of care would you receive? A Second to none – our emergency theatre is

DOCTOR SHAZIA MALIK

located on our labour ward, and I have delivered a baby within minutes when required. We have a theatre team resident on call only for obstetric emergencies, as well as a Obstetric Resident Medical Officer and Anaesthetist. We have a High Dependency (HDU) room on our labour ward fully equipped to deal with the most complex cases. Because we offer one-to-one midwifery care in labour, we also make sure our patients have the same level of care if they have an emergency before, during or after birth. Because all our patients have a named consultant, they are never left without senior care and input. Moreover our Neonatology Resident Medical Officer is on hand 24 hours a day for emergencies, and we also have a Consultant Neonatologist on-call. It is extraordinarily rare for us to need to send a client to another hospital. The hospital has an on-site Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for babies post 28 weeks to look after preterm babies who need a little more support at the start of life. theportlandhospital.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

PORTLAND HOSPITAL.indd 191

191

26/08/2022 17:28

KEW GREEN preparatory school

An Independent School for Boys and Girls aged 4-11 Quality of Pupils’ Achievement and Learning - “Excellent” Quality of Teaching - “Excellent”

Quality of Extra-curricular Provision - “Excellent” Quality of Pastoral Care - “Excellent”

Quality of Links with Parents - “Excellent”

Quality of Pupils’ Personal Development – “Excellent” “Pupils of all ages benefit from a rich and exciting curriculum.”

Independent Schools Inspectorate Report - July 2015

To book your place on an open morning, please go to www.kgps.co.uk/openmornings or phone 020 8948 5999

Kew Green Preparatory School

Layton House, Ferry Lane, Kew Green, Richmond TW9 3AF

www.kgps.co.uk KGPS.indd 1

22/07/2020 12:52

RAVENSCOURT PARK

preparatory school

An Independent School for Boys and Girls aged 4-11 Quality of Pupils’ Achievement and Learning - “Excellent” Quality of Teaching - “Excellent”

Quality of Extra-curricular Provision - “Excellent” Quality of Pastoral Care - “Excellent”

Quality of Links with Parents - “Excellent”

Quality of Pupils’ Personal Development – “Excellent” ‘’The curriculum is excellent for all ages and abilities, and is expertly matched to meet the needs of the range of pupils in the school.’’ Independent Schools Inspectorate Report - March 2016

Open Mornings Open Mornings

9.15am Tuesday 14th November To book your place on an open morning,

9.15am Thursday 9th May 2019 please go to www.rpps.co.uk/openmornings 9.15am Thursday 18th January 2018 9.15am Tuesday 11th June 2019 or phone 020 8846 9153

9.15am Thursday 1st February 2018

To your place on an open morning, pleasemornings, go to To book register your attendance at one of our open rpps.co.uk/admissions phone 020secretary@rpps.co.uk 8846 9153 please phone 0208 846 or 9153 or mail

Ravenscourt Park Prep School 16 Ravenscourt Avenue, London W6 0SL

www.rpps.co.uk RPPS_PRINT.indd 1 RPPS.indd 1

KEW GREEN - RAVENSCOURT.indd 192

19/11/2020 12:48 16:12 23/04/2019

26/08/2022 17:28

reso urces PARTNERSHIP

Parents should also avoid tight fitting plastic pants over nappies as they hold moisture easily and can make symptoms worse. Be sure to clean the affected area thoroughly at every nappy change – dry baby’s bottom gently with a soft towel, or a muslin cloth and then apply a pea-sized amount of nappy rash treatment cream to the affected area. You can also help to keep the area clean with daily baths. Make sure you are not bathing your little one more than twice a day though, as water can dry out baby’s sensitive skin and make it sore.

Ask the

EXPERT

Q My baby doesn’t have nappy rash at the moment, but should I be using a barrier ointment? A Nappy rash can be uncomfortable for little ones so it’s worth adding an extra step to your baby’s nappy change routine to help protect their delicate skin, even when they aren’t directly suffering from a case of nappy rash. Using products such as Metanium’s Everyday Barrier Ointment after each nappy change help form a protective layer on baby’s bottom, helping to shield the skin from the irritationinducing nasties that can cause nappy rash. As well as protecting the skin, the gentle formula seals in the skin’s natural moisture keeping skin soft, smooth, and supple too.

Marley Hall, BA RM DIPHE

Metanium’s resident midwife Marley Hall has practised midwifery in various settings over the past 13 years covering both the NHS and private sectors. She now works as a midwife outside of the NHS providing support to new and expectant mothers both on and offline. Q My baby recovers from a bout of nappy rash and then it’s back again a few weeks later, what can I do?’ A The main cause of nappy rash is usually baby’s skin being in contact with wee or poo for a prolonged period. As babies spend a lot of time in nappies, it’s not unusual for nappy rash to keep occurring but parents can be reassured, nappy rash is extremely common, and, in most cases, will clear up within a few days. To help protect your little one from recurring nappy rash, when changing baby’s nappy, I’d recommend lying them on a towel and letting them go nappy free whenever you have the opportunity. If you can do this daily, nappy rash is much less likely to occur, with air being allowed to freely flow within the nappy area and the skin on your baby’s bottom will be all the better.

If you are in any way concerned, be sure to speak to your health visitor or pharmacist, or if the rash is severe, contact your GP for advice. Q What are the things that make nappy rash worse? A There are seven key triggers that can make little ones more prone to developing nappy rash in those first few years. Introducing solid foods at the weaning stage, changes in milk, common colds, teething, upset stomachs and taking antibiotics can all cause babies to have runny poo and in some cases diarrhoea. Your choice of nappy can affect nappy rash too, particularly if the nappy is too tight or too loose for your baby’s size. Too tight and there’s no air circulating around your baby’s bottom and chaffing can occur, too loose and your baby’s wee and poo can spread further across the surface area of the skin.

Metanium’s Everyday Barrier Ointment is suitable for use from birth, unscented and suitable for vegans. Available from: Asda, Boots, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Superdrug, Tesco, Waitrose, Wilkinson, Lloyds Pharmacy and independent chemists. RRP 40g/80g £3.50 / £5.90 Join the Metanium conversation at www.metanium.co.uk or on Instagram and Facebook

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

ASK thE EXPERT.indd 193

193

26/08/2022 17:28

ai16613461157_Absolutely magazine September22.pdf 1 24/08/2022 14:01:56

Since 1989

PROU DLY IND EP END ENT

AWA R D W I N N I N G

B AT H R O O M S H O W R O O M & T I L E G A L L E R Y

CMY

Over 50 Bathroom Displays

Working Displays

Tel: 0 1 7 84 426900

4D Design Service

Quality Brands

Large Car Park

193 London Road I Staines-upon-Thames I TW18 4HR

E-mail: sales@batheandbeyond.com Monday - Saturday: 9.00am - 5.00pm

ASHFORD HEATING.indd 194

w w w. b a t h e a n d b e y o n d . c o m

26/08/2022 17:28

PROPERTY

RENFREW ROAD KT2 GUIDE PRICE

£4,250,000

fantastic Edwardian family home with a ‘Country Style’ feel, a huge amount of character and situated within its own mature tree lined grounds of 0.56 acres. Claremont House has been tastefully modernised with five bedrooms and has potential to extend, subject to planning permission. The house is located in a quiet cul-de-sac in the heart of the beautiful Coombe Estate.

ROBERT HOLMES 360 Coombe Lane London SW20 0RJ

0208 947 1100

www.robertholmes.co.uk

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

PROPERTY OPENER.indd 195

195

26/08/2022 16:20

www. ohnmartinestates.com 1995-2020

EALING W13

£1,100,000

EE O D

A beautifully updated, traditional period style villa full of character within easy walking distance of Pitshanger illage. The accommodation, which retains an array of period features, offers a spacious intercommunicating reception room, shaped kitchen/dining area and ground floor cloakroom. To the first floor are three good si ed bedrooms and family bathroom and to the second floor, in the extended lo space, is a large bedroom and en suite shower room. The property has gas fired central heating and a private rear garden with direct access to Pitshanger Park. Energy Performance Certificate C.

Pitshanger ane, Ealing W 1 mesales ohnmartinestates.com JOHN MARTIN_SEPTEMBER 2022_ABSOLUTELY LONDON.indd 196

26/08/2022 18:11

“PITSHANGER’S COMMUNITY ESTATE AGENT”

EALING W5

,000

EE O D

An attractive bay fronted period villa on the ever popular Brentham arden Estate. The property is well presented and offers spacious intercommunicating reception rooms and traditional fitted kitchen to the ground floor, two bedrooms and large family bathroom with separate shower cubicle to the first floor and further bedroom to the second floor. There is an array of period features including fireplaces and coved ceilings, good storage throughout, gas fired central heating and a lovely south facing rear garden. Offered chain free. Energy Performance Certificate E.

T: 020 8998 3333 JOHN MARTIN_SEPTEMBER 2022_ABSOLUTELY LONDON.indd 197

26/08/2022 18:11

www. ohnmartinestates.com 1995-2020

EALING W5

,000

EEE O D

A charming end of terrace Brentham cottage on this deligh ul road in the heart of the conservation estate. The accommodation comprises traditional lounge and well arranged fitted kitchen with space for dining on the ground floor. To the first floor there are two good si ed bedrooms and shower room. The property has some period features, gas fired central heating, as well as front, side and rear gardens. The property is offered chain free. Energy Performance Certificate D.

Pitshanger ane, Ealing W 1 mesales ohnmartinestates.com JOHN MARTIN_SEPTEMBER 2022_ABSOLUTELY LONDON.indd 198

26/08/2022 18:12

“PITSHANGER’S COMMUNITY ESTATE AGENT”

TO T W KE NE AR M

EALING W13

£1,400 Per Calendar Month

A stunning one bedroom conversion apartment situated close to Walpole Park and West Ealing mainline station. The property is on the hall level of this characterful building and comprises open plan lounge with fully fitted kitchen (including all appliances), modern shower room and double bedroom. There are high ceilings, period features, wood flooring in living areas and carpet in bedroom, gas fired central heating, entryphone system, west facing rear communal garden and on street permit parking. Offered unfurnished. C/Tax Band - D Energy Performance Certificate - D.

T: 020 8998 3333 JOHN MARTIN_SEPTEMBER 2022_ABSOLUTELY LONDON.indd 199

26/08/2022 18:12

E lsh am

Road, W14

£1,0

, 50 I ngl eth orp e S treet, S W6

£1, 85,000

ituated within an attractive ictorian building on the borders of This four bedroom home has a double reception leading onto an olland Park, a two bedroom maisonette with a large reception room e panded kitchen, ideal for modern family living. et in ulham s and conservatory which opens onto a garden, energy rating c. Alphabet treets moments from the River Thames, energy rating d. 020 760 1415 brookgreensales@fletcherestates.com

G reenend Road, W4

020 760 1415 brookgreensales@fletcherestates.com

£1,200,000 G unnersb ury M ew s, W4

Positioned in a sought after location, a four bedroom ictorian home with a spacious reception and a garden. There is the potential to e tend, sub ect to planning permission, energy rating d. 020 8 87 000 chiswicksales@fletcherestates.com

A th ro

£1,750,000

et within a modern gated development, this five bedroom house has a generous reception room and south facing garden as well as the added bonus of a garage underneath the property, energy rating b. 020 8 87 000 chiswicksales@fletcherestates.com

fletcherestates.com

FLETCHERS.indd 200

26/08/2022 16:21

Re Co w

15 m

Airedale Avenue, W4 Arranged over three floors, this five bedroom Edwardian house has been tastefully refurbished throughout by the owners. There is a modern kitchen, a dining room and a socialable reception room with bi-folding doors opening onto a garden, energy rating c.

£2,200 per week 020 8742 4100 chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com

00 m

Woodstock Road, W4 Retaining period features, a recently renovated, five bedroom house located in the Bedford Park Conservation Area. The property has a double reception room, a high specification kitchen and a west facing garden. In addition, there are two balconies, energy rating d.

£1,615 per week 020 8742 4100 chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com

fletcherestates.com

FLETCHERS.indd 201

26/08/2022 16:21

THAMES DESIGN AND BUILD.indd 202

26/08/2022 16:21

Parkside, Wimbledon Common

£17,000,000

A fully renovated and modernised 6 bedroom home ideal for family living and entertaining, offering timeless elegance with delightful open views across Wimbledon Common, with its acres of woodlands and walks. Grand entrance hallway, formal living room and study, dining room, stunning sun room, kitchen/dining room, media room, gymnasium, principal bedroom suite with individual e/s bathrooms and dressing room, 5 further bedrooms, 4 further bath/shower rooms, top floor playroom, 2 guest cloakrooms, utility room and plant room, landscaped garden, double garage and off-street parking ER/E Coombe Office Sales: 020 8947 1100 ROBERT HOLMES -.indd 203

26/08/2022 16:21

Lingfield Road, Wimbledon Village

£6,750,000

Homefield Road, Wimbledon Village

£3,000,000

A period house combining period and contemporary features in the heart of the Village. Grand entrance hall, 3 reception rooms, study, open plan kitchen/dining/family room, 6 bedrooms, 3 bath/shower rooms, terrace and walled garden, garage & OSP ER/D

With self-contained one bed flat and planning permission to extend, in a central Village location. 2 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, principal bedroom suite, 4 further bedrooms, 3 further bath/showers, garden, OSP ER/E

Drax Avenue, Wimbledon

Vineyard Hill Road, Wimbledon

£6,000,000

A most attractive house built to a high standard and located in the sought after Drax Estate. 3 reception rooms, study, kitchen/breakfast room, games room, gymnasium, 6 bedrooms 5 bathrooms, one bed self-contained flat, landscaped garden, garage & OSP ER/C

OIRO £4,000,000

A substantial period house with a wonderful garden in this highly regarded residential road. 3 reception rooms, conservatory, kitchen, breakfast room, 6 bedrooms, 3 bath/shower rooms, 119’ westerly garden, 2 cellar rooms, garage & OSDP ER/E

Wimbledon Village Office Sales: 020 8947 9833 Lettings: 020 8879 9669 ROBERT HOLMES -.indd 204

26/08/2022 16:21

www.robertholmes.co.uk

Crown Road, New Malden, KT3

£1,600,000

Coombe Lane, West Wimbledon, SW20

£1,650,000

A bright and spacious family house that has been skilfully extended. Kitchen/Dining Room, 2 Reception Rooms, Conservatory, 5 Bedrooms, Garden

An Edwardian, semi-detached family home with a larger than average 114 ft garden. Drawing Room, Dining Room, Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Conservatory, 5 Bedrooms, Garden

Coombe Road, New Malden, KT3

Coombe Hill Road, Coombe Estate, KT2

£2,000,000

A pretty, brick frontage family home in an ideal location offering huge potential to extend. Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Dining Room, Reception Room, Conservatory, 4 bedrooms, Garden

£4,500,000

This modern residence has been refurbished and extended to create an impressive super home. Kitchen/Breakfast Room, 5 Reception Rooms, Swimming Pool, Gym, 5 Bedrooms, Garden, 6420 sq ft

Coombe Office Sales: 020 8947 1100 ROBERT HOLMES -.indd 205

26/08/2022 16:21

SALES

5- 7 Tur n h a m G ree n Te rra ce, C h isw ic k , Lon don , W 4 1R G Te l 0 2 0 8 7 4 7 8 800 · Fa x 020 8995 7275 E - ma i l i n fo @ wh itma n a n dco.com · We bsite w w w. w h i t m a n a n dco. co m

GLEBE STREET, W4

LETTINGS

FAIRLAWN AVENUE, W4

£1,725,000 £465,000

An exceptional four bedroom period home located in the heart of Chiswick’s Glebe Estate, one of the most sought after residential neighbourhoods AnLondon. amazingly light,a luxury well presented triplestyle aspect flat suite, with the a balconycontemporary and private family garden. Three bedrooms, luxury bathroom, in Offering boutique hotel master threeadded furtherbenefit doubleofbedrooms, bathroom, formal front reception 14' reception room, fully integrated kitchen, fired central heating, in the balcony and private garden with side access. Ideally room, 21’ bespoke kitchen/breakfast room, utilitygas room with cloakroom and share space for winefreehold, fridge, garden studio/office/cinema room, underfloor heating, front garden bikeclose shed/storage in immaculate order throughout. property providesand maximum floor facilities to ceilingon height and has been designed situated within proximityand of all Chiswick Park tube station and theThe extensive shopping restaurant Chiswick High Road. to provide plenty of natural light throughout. Ideally situated moments from Chiswick High Road, Turnham Green Terrace and Devonshire Road with its cafes, bars, boutiques, shops and restaurants (including Michelin starred La Trompette), along with numerous transport facilities and in close proximity to Chiswick’s best schools.

LINDEN GARDENS, W4

LAMB COTTAGE, W4 W4 THORNTON AVENUE,

£330 PER WEEK

GUIDE PRICE £1.600,000 £1,850,000

A newly decorated lower ground floor garden flat with private west facing garden. Large double bedroom with wardrobes, reception room with A rare opportunity to purchase this unmodernised five-bedroom semi-detached period family house ideally located just off Chiswick High Road with a wood floors, bathroom with shower over, fitted kitchen, garden. The flat is on one of Chiswick's best located roads, moments from the shops, private 50’ west facing garden. This five double bedroom property comprises a bathroom and separate WC, two reception rooms, kitchen, breakfast room, restaurants cafés on the High Road and 5 minutes from Turnham Green station. The property is available early September, furnished. ground floor bathroom, cloakroom, cellar and a private 50’ west facing garden. Ideally situated in the prestigious tree-lined residential road offering close proximity to Turnham Green tube station and the extensive shops, bars and restaurants on Chiswick High Road. No chain.

WHITMAN.indd 206

26/08/2022 16:21

LETTINGS STAVELEY ROAD, W4

POINT WHARF LANE, TW8

GUIDE PRICE £1,950,000

£350 PER WEEK

An immaculate five bedroom detached house offering an excellent balance of living and entertaining space in this sought after tree-lined residential road Beautifully presented two double bedroom second floor flata in this bedroom highly sought after riverside development. Boasting a stunning open plan close to numerous amenities. This impressive property comprises master with dressing room and ensuite, four further bedrooms, luxury family bathroom, additional shower room, large entrance three reception rooms, fully integrated kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, dining room, study,work kitchen reception room, a river side balcony andhall, a master ensuite bedroom. Large open plan reception room, fully fitted kitchen with granite cloak storage throughout, private 40’ landscaped garden andincluded. the added benefit of off-street parking. Ideally situated in the heart of Grove tops,room, fittedextensive wardrobes and riverside views. Underground parking space Park offering close proximity to parks, local shopping facilities and transport.

QUEEN ANNES GROVE, W4

LAMB COTTAGE, SPENCER ROAD, W4

£430 PER WEEK

GUIDE PRICE £1,000,000

A large, light and beautifully presented two double bedroom flat on this highly desirable road in the heart of Bedford Park, just minutes from

A semi-detached freehold house with generous frontage and 57’ rear garden offering the potential to extend and refurbish to create a spacious family home. Located Turnham Green underground station. Top floor position ensures beautiful views from the reception and bedrooms. on this popular residential road in the Grove Park area of Chiswick moments from local shops, cafes, pub and Chiswick Station the accommodation comprises a 14’6 £1.600,000 reception room, dining room, kitchen, entrance hall, two double bedrooms, single bedroom, bathroom, large loft, 57’ garden with large garage and rear access, generous front garden, potential to extends STPP. Spencer Road is a wide tree-lined street offering close proximity to Chiswick House and Grounds, the River, Dukes Meadows sporting facilities and a number of local shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants. Chiswick High Road’s more extensive amenities are also easily accessible. Transport links include Chiswick mainline station (1-minute walk), local bus routes and the A4/M4 for routes in and out of London.

WHITMAN.indd 207

26/08/2022 16:21

HOUSE 2022_ABSOLUTELY LONDON.indd 208 house..indd Untitled-2- RPT_SEPTEMBER 21

26/08/2022 18:22 26/06/2018 19/01/2022 16:17 14:42

house.. Untitled

18 22 16:17 14:42

country house town house period house modern house dream house moving house?

Estate agency has moved on. house. is different We know people are starting to consider online only estate agents, but still want the reassurance of face-to-face help from local experts. You get both with us, because we provide that personal service without expensive high street locations that customers have to pay for.

We also go further to ensure your property and the lifestyle it enables is shown in the best possible light. Sumptuous photography and video, and a contemporary web experience not only shows buyers how your home looks, but how it feels to live there. It’s the new, innovative way to add value when selling your house. The premium online estate agency.

London, Surrey and Sussex 0800 917 0447 info@housepartnership.co.uk

housepartnership.co.uk

HOUSE 2022_ABSOLUTELY LONDON.indd 209 house..indd Untitled-2- RPT_SEPTEMBER 22

26/08/2022 18:23 26/06/2018 19/01/2022 16:16 14:41

YOU HOME_SEPTEMBER 2022_ABSOLUTELY LONDON.indd 210 YH.indd 12 Untitled-2

26/08/2022 18:26 22/07/2021 19/01/2022 10:36 14:43

YH.indd Untitled

21 22 10:36 14:43

YOU HOME_SEPTEMBER 2022_ABSOLUTELY LONDON.indd 211 YH.indd 22 Untitled-2

26/08/2022 18:26 22/07/2021 19/01/2022 10:36 14:43

MCCARTHEY STONE.indd 212

26/08/2022 16:22

HOMEWOOD GROVE CHERTSEY

Contemporary retirement living COMING SOON

A stunning collection of 1, 2 and 3 bed apartments in a brand-new lifestyle community for the over 60s located near desirable Chertsey in Surrey. With modern spacious homes, state-of-the-art amenities and a wealth of activities, you really can enjoy the lifestyle you deserve.

call us on 01932 555301 or visit www.rangefordvillages.co.uk

EXCLUSIVELY FOR THE OVER 60s

RANGEFORD HOLDIN.indd 213

26/08/2022 16:22

Here for your property journey, wherever it takes you. acorngroup.co.uk/journey

Swanley Village Road, BR8 £1,400,000 F/H

$Q LPSUHVVLYH VTIW ƓYH EHGURRP GHWDFKHG IDPLO\ KRPH VHW RYHU WZR ŴRRUV LQ D VRXJKW DIWHU YLOODJH ORFDWLRQ 2

Contact Swanley 020 3861 0222

Highshore Road, SE15

Ingress Park, DA9

$ TXLQWHVVHQWLDO *UDGH ,, OLVWHG VHPL GHWDFKHG YLOOD FLUFD PHDVXULQJ DQ LPSUHVVLYH VTIW 2FFXS\LQJ D SULPH SRVLWLRQ LQ DQ HQYLHG ORFDWLRQ

,PPDFXODWHO\ SUHVHQWHG IRXU EHGURRP IDPLO\ KRPH VHW RQ D JHQHURXV VHFOXGHG SORW MXVW D VWRQH V WKURZ DZD\ IURP WKH 5LYHU 7KDPHV

OIEO £2,000,000 F/H

Contact Peckham 020 7771 6777

£1,300,000 F/H

Contact Dartford 01322 478 555

Visit us online at acorngroup.co.uk

ACORN.indd 214

26/08/2022 16:22

NOW COMPLETE AND READY TO MOVE IN A striking collection of brand new three-storey, three/four bedroom townhouses for sale in SE6. All homes come with beautiful open-plan living spaces, spacious bedrooms and private courtyard gardens.

Arrange a viewing today: 020 8315 6996 acorngroup.co.uk/newhomes

Prices from £625,000

ACORN.indd 215

26/08/2022 16:22

Here for your property journey, wherever it takes you. acorngroup.co.uk/journey

Oak Lane, TN13 £2,650,000 F/H

$Q LPSUHVVLYH ƓYH EHGURRP IDPLO\ KRPH ORFDWHG DSSUR[LPDWHO\ PLOHV IURP 6HYHQRDNV WRZQ FHQWUH DQG UDLO VWDWLRQ 3

Contact Sevenoaks 01732 443 333

Walsingham Park, BR7

Lovibonds Avenue, BR6

$Q LPPDFXODWHO\ SUHVHQWHG IRXU EHGURRP GHWDFKHG IDPLO\ KRPH ZLWK RYHU VTIW RI OLYLQJ VSDFH /RFDWHG LQ D VHFOXGHG FXO GH VDF RQ RQH RI &KLVOHKXUVW V PRVW VRXJKW DIWHU SULYDWH URDGV

7KLV GHWDFKHG KRXVH RIIHUV RYHU VTIW RI OLYLQJ VSDFH ORFDWHG ZLWKLQ WKH FDWFKPHQW DUHD RI 'DUULFN :RRG 6FKRRO DQG D VKRUW ZDON IURP 2USLQJWRQ WUDLQ VWDWLRQ SURYLGLQJ OLQNV WR FHQWUDO /RQGRQ

£1,500,000 F/H

Contact Chislehurst 020 8295 4900

OIEO £1,100,000 F/H

Contact Orpington 01689 661 400

Visit us online at acorngroup.co.uk/lr

ACORN.indd 216

26/08/2022 16:22

Final phase released Now complete and ready to move in, Vixen Heights is a brand new development of 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments for sale in Grove Park. Featuring modern, high-tech specifications, open-plan living spaces and private balconies or terraces to all apartments. Available with a 5% deposit on Help to Buy.*

*Subject to terms and conditions

To arrange a viewing, call 020 8315 6996 or visit acorngroup.co.uk/vixen

ACORN.indd 217

26/08/2022 16:22

Here for your property journey, wherever it takes you. acorngroup.co.uk/journey

Mycenae Road, SE3 £1,725,000 F/H

([FHSWLRQDOO\ VSDFLRXV IRXU EHGURRP VHPL GHWDFKHG (GZDUGLDQ KRXVH SRVLWLRQHG LQ RQH RI :HVWFRPEH 3DUN V FRQYHUVDWLRQ DUHDV 2

Contact Blackheath Standard 020 8858 6101

Southvale Road, SE3

Norway Street, SE10

$ VWXQQLQJ 9LFWRULDQ IDPLO\ KRXVH ZKLFK KDV EHHQ WKH VXEMHFW RI D WKRURXJK DQG WDVWHIXO SURJUDPPH RI UHQRYDWLRQ DQG PRGHUQLVDWLRQ LQFOXGLQJ D JURXQG DQG ƓUVW ŴRRU H[WHQVLRQ

)RUPLQJ SDUW RI D ERXWLTXH QHZ GHYHORSPHQW LQ WKH KHDUW RI *UHHQZLFK LV WKLV VW\OLVK WZR GRXEOH EHGURRP WZR EDWKURRP DSDUWPHQW EHQHƓWWLQJ IURP WZR SULYDWH EDOFRQLHV

Guide Price £1,300,000 F/H

£645,000 L/H

Contact Blackheath Village 020 8318 1311

Contact Greenwich West 020 8858 9911

Visit us online at acorngroup.co.uk/jp

ACORN.indd 218

26/08/2022 16:22

Over 70% sold – now ready to move into Hillcross Place is a stunning new collection of 2 bedroom apartments for sale. Prices starting from £425,000, available with a 5% deposit on Help to Buy.*

Perfectly positioned on Sidcup Hill, each apartment has been designed with attention to detail and features an enviable specification to bring you the best of spacious, modern living. Hillcross Place is located a short walk from Sidcup High Street, where you can enjoy a kaleidoscope of shops and a delicious selection of restaurants.

Commuting from Hillcross Place is easy with quick access to the A20, leading into central London. You are also within a 20-minute walk of Sidcup Railway Station, with trains to London Bridge in under 30 minutes.

Show home open Thursday-Monday, 10am-5pm. Call 020 8315 6902 or visit acorngroup.co.uk/hillcross

ACORN.indd 219

Developed by:

Subject to terms & conditions

Selling agent:

26/08/2022 16:22

OBC - SOUTH WEST.indd 224

26/08/2022 16:22