Set within one of Rayleigh’s most sought-after semi-rural locations, this exceptional home offers a lifestyle designed for both everyday living and entertaining. Highlights include multiple patio areas, a luxury outdoor suite with bar and seating, a bespoke round house with hot tub, and a roof terrace for private relaxation. With generous accommodation and a peaceful yet well-connected setting, it delivers space, style and lifestyle in equal measure.
• 1 min walk to Chalkwell Station, 45 min to London
Positioned on Leigh’s iconic seafront, this exclusive development offers just five luxury apartments, with one already sold. The homes include a penthouse, two duplexes and all apartments with large balconies and panoramic sea views. All benefit from underground stacked parking — a rare asset here. With contemporary design, exceptional estuary views and a landmark coastal address, it presents a unique opportunity for premium seafront living.
CULTURE
16 Agenda It is a month full of iconic music and lots of laughs
18 Strictly Come Dancing Vicky Pattison and Ellie Goldstein join the live tour
22 Brentwood How to spend a day in the culturally-rich Essex town
FOOD & DRINK
30 Romantic Dining Visit Essex pick ten of the cosiest foodie hotspots
35 Drinks Tasty tipples perfect for Valentine's Day
FASHION & BEAUTY
38 The Shoot Ascot's Jumps Season Lookbook returns
43 Jewellery Nine trinkets we absolutely love
INTERIORS
52 Real Home The Essex home that was up for RIBA House of the Year
59 Vases The best ways to show o those Valentine's flowers
61 Florals How to bring springlike colour into the home
EDUCATION
66 Performers College Training up the best in Essex acting talent
70 Outdoor Learning Why you should not hibernate in the winter
72 School of Rock A new way to learn how to play music arrives in the UK
80 Danny Robins How spooky tales can help teach children about life
ON THE COVER
Ascot Jumps Season Lookbook
Photo: Georgina Preston (ascot.com) 124 City Road, London EC1V 2NX, 020 7704 0588 zest.london
For editorial enquiries please email: mark@zest-media.com
For advertising enquiries please call 07861 994764 or email: claire@zest-media.com
LETTER Editor’s
ABSOLUTELY’S February issue highlights
Ihave been thinking a lot about love this month. With Valentine's Day here once again, I have a love/hate relationship with it. I get the sentiment, but one day to show you really love that special person (or people) in your life? We all shouldn't need a reminder to spread the love.
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Still, for those who do need a little encouragement – and with Cupid's day falling on a Saturday this year – you may need a few tips on where to take your loved one. Luckily, Visit Essex have done all the hard work for you by picking out ten of the cosiest and most romantic spots to dine out in across the county. I didn't love school. I loved being with my friends and generally messing around, but the way I was taught left plenty to be desired. Apart from a madcap English teacher (who clearly had an effect considering the career I ended up pursuing), my teachers were not an inspiring bunch. It is why when our education special comes around I am very jealous of some of the opportunities out there for the younger generation these days. Essex really does have it all when it comes to education. And lastly, but not least, I have always loved a bit of Strictly Come Dancing, and the new live tour has a real Essex flavour to it. The perfect Valentine's treat, perhaps?
MARK KEBBLE EDITOR
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Romantic Dining
Ten of the cosiest restaurants and pubs for Valentine's (p30)
Education Special A world of opportunity awaits (p65)
Jewellery Trinkets to set the pulses racing (p43)
Wishlist
What we are craving in the month of love (p12)
Brentwood Enjoying a cultural day out in Essex (p22)
Wish LIST
STAR GIRL
Celia B's Resort 26 collection is titled Stardust and Moonbeam –and it delivers the joyful, maximalist blend of colours, ruffles, embroidery and fun that we expect from the Spanish designer. celiab.com
LIPS INC
A new formula for NARS' A erglow Lip Balm features a nourishing blend of ingredients to hydrate while helping to smooth and so en lips. This sheer tint can be worn alone or layered with other lip formulas, £28.50. narscosmetics.co.uk
EDITOR’S PICK
HEARTS OF GOLD
Après Youth is introducing a new gold-focused collection, expanding its jewellery offering with a warmer, elevated edge. The new pieces explore gold tones through bold forms and sculptural detailing, designed to feel expressive, modern and versatile. apresyouth.com
GLOW UP
Kulfi is a make-up brand with a dual focus: fun and performance, plus a commitment to ethical practice. We love the Zari Eyes eyeshadow in Disco Dreams, £30. spacenk.com
STEP ON
The new M70 Soul Collection from SAYE marks a renewed version of an iconic silhouette, now cra ed in premium certifi ed long-hair suede. We're cheering up these grey days with the Garnet and Gum colourway. sayebrand.com
PULL UP
Ski socks might not be a huge part of the look, but we do want them to be pretty as well as warm –which Sealskinz's Northwold socks defi nitely are. Especially in this pink colourway, £35. sealskinz.com
CIRCLE BACK
PINK LADY
Feeling peachy? Amelie's Follies will have the perfect shade. Get in touch and you'll come away with the best fitting underwear you've ever owned. ameliesfollies.co.uk
The best scrunchies come courtesy of Good Squish, whose vast range of hair accesssories made from deadstock fabric are designed to suit all tastes and whims. goodsquish.com
ENGLISH ROSE
Pioneers of exceptional English sparkling wines, Nyetimber offers a great range to celebrate with this year including Nyetimber Rosé Multi-Vintage. nyetimber.com
IN THE HOOD
K-Way®, known for its colourful, practical, and playful designs, has teamed up with Disney for a collection of rainwear. We love this pink Mickey Mouse windbreaker. k-way.co.uk
CULTURE MARK SIMMONS
21 FEBRUARY, CHELMSFORD THEATRE Master of one liners, Mark Simmons returns to Chelmsford Theatre after his 200 date sell out debut tour that spanned two years and multiple continents. Mark is back on tour in 2026 with Jest To Impress, a brand new hour packed with even more expertly crafted one liners, alongside his trademark off the cuff jokes based on random audience suggestions. chelmsfordtheatre.co.uk
The Agenda
FEBRUARY'S HOTTEST HAPPENINGS
Firstsite Art Fair
28 February
FIRSTSITE
Set in a welcoming environment, the Firstsite Art Fair showcases a stunning array of original artworks, including paintings and sculptures. Whether you're on the hunt for a unique gift or treating yourself to something special, this is your chance to discover oneof-a-kind pieces that speak to you. firstsite.uk
1 FEBRUARY, CHELMSFORD THEATRE
Join Hannah East for a Work in Progress performance of her brandnew show, Express Yourself. Hannah hilariously captures the madness of parenting, with millions of views online, her sketches are brutally honest, wildly relatable, and laugh-out-loud funny. Express Yourself is the comedy show every parent needs: raw, real, and utterly unmissable.
Hannah East chelmsfordtheatre.co.uk
Two Halves of Guinness
21 February
MERCURY THEATRE
In an exceptional exploration of one of Britain’s greatest actors, Zeb Soanes brings the life of Sir Alec Guinness to stage across the UK. Sir Alec Guinness’ career spanned Shakespeare, the beloved Ealing comedies, and Hollywood classics. Yet he feared he would only be remembered for one role: Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars. mercurytheatre.co.uk
PHOTO: JIKSAW
THEATRE
EVENT
Cirque Enchantment
22 February
TOWNGATE THEATRE
Since captivating its first audiences Cirque Enchantment has thrilled thousands with its unique blend of circus, music and showstopping performances. Step into a frozen circus wonderland, where a talented cast of aerialists, thrilling fire performers, jawdropping acrobatics, jugglers and hula hoopers are combined with beautiful choreography and West End–quality live vocals. towngatetheatre.co.uk
MUSIC Suede
20 February CLIFFS PAVILION
Suede have announced a UK tour for 2026 that will see the band take their highly-anticipated tenth studio album, Antidepressants, on the road for the first time. Antidepressants has already received widespread acclaim, awarded five stars in MOJO who describe "a defiant, death-defying record – as much a joy ride as memento mori" and Uncut heard "their most intoxicating, unhinged album since Coming Up". trafalgartickets.com
The Anglia Comedy Allstars show returns to Princes Theatre on 8th February, with another great line-up featuring the fantastic Milton Jones, Ivo Graham, Angela Barnes and Russell Hicks.
Milton Jones: him with the shirts from Mock the Week, Live at the Apollo and Radio 4. Milton reveals the truth about being an international spy, before being given a disappointing new identity which forced him to appear on Mock the Week and Live at the Apollo.
Gordon Buchanan
19 February
COLCHESTER CHARTER HALL
This
ailed as Scotland’s own David Attenborough, Gordon Buchanan is best known through appearances on TV shows including Big Cat Diary and the Lost Land Of The… series. He has dedicated his life to exploring the natural world, and his new live show will feature captivating adventures with pandas, grizzlies, tigers, jaguars and more. colchester-events.co.uk
Ivo Graham has established himself as, if not the UK’s poshest, then certainly its most apologetically posh comedian. With a bumbling charm to snare audiences of all ages, he’s sold out six runs at the Edinburgh Fringe.
A er a career in health and social care, Angela Barnes took the plunge and embarked on her life-long dream to be a comedian. Within just a couple of years she had won the BBC New Comedy Award in 2011 and has now gone on to star in BBC Two’s Mock The Week, Live At The Apollo and Hypothetical on Dave.
Russell Hicks is one of the UK’s most razor-sharp and exciting comic talents. An American based in London, he is a provocative and exuberant comedian with a rockstar edge and has appeared on some of the UK’s biggest TV networks, including Channel 4, BBC and ITV. princestheatre.co.uk
The Anglia Comedy Allstars return to Essex
IVO GRAHAM,
PHOTO: MATT STRONGE
LET'S DANCE
Essex stars Vicky Pattison and Ellie Goldstein are taking centre stage on the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour 2026
VICKY PATTISON AND KAI WIDDRINGTON
When the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour returns in 2026, it won’t just be bringing sequins, samba rolls and standing ovations to arenas across the UK – it will be showcasing two very di erent women whose journeys to the ballroom could not be more distinct, yet whose stories now intersect under the famous glitterball.
Vicky Pattison and Ellie Goldstein are among the newest celebrity names confirmed for the 30-date arena tour, and both arrive with loyal fanbases, powerful personal narratives and strong Essex connections that underline the county’s enduring influence on British popular culture.
From reality TV reinvention to global fashion trailblazer, their inclusion reflects what Strictly now does best: celebrating transformation, representation and the joy of performance – this time on a scale bigger than ever before.
VICKY PATTISON: FROM REALITY TV TO THE BALLROOM – AND BEYOND
Few figures in modern British television have undergone as visible a transformation as Vicky Pattison. First known to audiences as a breakout star of Geordie Shore, Vicky quickly became one of the show’s most recognisable personalities – outspoken, chaotic, and refreshingly honest.
But while reality TV fame can be fleeting, Vicky used her platform to reshape her career. Over the years, she has established herself as a broadcaster, columnist, author and outspoken advocate for mental health, body confidence and women’s empowerment. Shows such as I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! introduced a softer, more reflective side to her personality, helping her transcend the reality TV label.
Now living in Essex, Vicky has embraced the county’s vibrant media ecosystem, becoming a regular presence on television panels, radio shows and
lifestyle programming. Essex – long associated with bold personalities and big ambition – has provided a natural base for her next chapter.
Her appearance on Strictly Come Dancing marked one of the biggest challenges of her career. Far removed from the comfort of reality TV formats, Vicky threw herself into the discipline of ballroom and Latin dance, revealing a surprising resilience and determination. Week by week, viewers saw her confidence grow, fuelled by a partnership built on trust, humour and mutual respect.
Reuniting with professional dancer Kai Widdrington for the live tour, Vicky has spoken openly about the thrill of getting “another go” at the Strictly experience – this time without the pressure of weekly eliminations, and with the added adrenaline of live arena crowds.
For Vicky, the tour represents both celebration and continuation: proof that her Strictly journey didn’t end when the studio lights dimmed, but simply moved to a much bigger stage.
ELLIE GOLDSTEIN AND VITO COPPOLA
PHOTOS: RAY BURMISTON
ELLIE GOLDSTEIN: A TRAILBLAZER REDEFINING REPRESENTATION
If Vicky Pattison’s journey is one of reinvention, Ellie Goldstein’s story is one of quiet revolution. Based in Essex, Ellie has become one of the most recognisable faces in global fashion and media – not just because of her work, but because of what she represents. As a model and actor with Down’s syndrome, Ellie has helped redefine who gets to be seen, celebrated and centred in mainstream culture.
Her rise has been remarkable. From highprofile modelling campaigns to magazine covers and acting roles, Ellie has consistently challenged outdated assumptions about disability. Yet despite her trailblazing status, she remains grounded, warm and refreshingly candid – qualities that endeared her to audiences when she stepped onto the Strictly dancefloor. “It was honestly the most amazing experience,” she says on her time on the show. “I loved every minute of it and learned so much. It was hard work but so much fun, and I’m really proud of what I achieved. Strictly helped me believe in myself more and showed me that I can do things I never thought I could.”
Ellie’s time on Strictly Come Dancing was about far more than technique or scores. Her performances radiated joy, confidence and commitment, proving that dance is as much about expression as it is about precision. Audiences connected deeply with her authenticity, cheering her on not as an “inspirational contestant”, but as a genuine competitor.
Partnered again with Vito Coppola, one of the show’s most popular professional dancers, Ellie returns to the live tour with what she a ectionately calls her “Cheeky
“Strictly helped me to believe in myself more and showed me that I can do things I never thought I could”
Team”. Their partnership combines playful energy with serious dance ability, and their reunion has been greeted with enthusiasm by fans eager to see them perform again. “I didn’t want the Strictly journey to end,” she says on why she returned to do the live tour. “I’m excited to dance again, perform in front of live audiences across the country and spend more time with the Strictly family.”
INSIDE THE STRICTLY COME DANCING LIVE TOUR 2026
The Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour is no ordinary theatre production. Spanning 30 scintillating shows from 23rd January to 15th February, it transforms the beloved BBC series into a full-scale arena spectacular. Alongside Vicky and Ellie, audiences will also see previously announced couples Harry Aikines-Aryeety and Karen Hauer and La Voix and Aljaž Škorjanec, ensuring a mix of athleticism, theatrical flair and personality.
The experience is elevated further by appearances from hugely popular Strictly judges Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke and Craig Revel Horwood, whose commentary, scores and trademark humour remain central to the show’s appeal. Hosting duties fall to Janette Manrara, bringing warmth, wit and insider knowledge from It Takes Two
Unlike the TV series, however, the ultimate power lies with the audience. Each night, spectators vote for their favourite couple, deciding who lifts the coveted Glitterball Trophy – a democratic twist that makes every performance feel urgent and alive.
Accessibility is also built into the heart of the tour, with British Sign Language interpreters featured on large arena screens, ensuring the experience can be shared by as many fans as possible.
At its core, the Strictly Live Tour is a celebration – of movement, music and shared experience. But through performers like Vicky Pattison and Ellie Goldstein, it also becomes something deeper: a showcase of growth, representation and personal triumph. For Vicky, it’s another step in a career defined by evolution. For Ellie, it’s a continuation of a mission to expand who gets seen on Britain’s biggest stages.
As the glitter settles and the tour hits the road, one thing is clear: when these two Essex stars step into the spotlight, they bring far more than footwork with them. They bring stories – and audiences across the UK are ready to listen.
Tickets for the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour 2026 are on sale now via StrictlyComeDancingLive.com
CRAIG REVEL HORWOOD, SHIRLEY BALLAS, ANTON DU BEKE AND JANETTE MANRARA
PHOTO: RAY BURMISTON
Why we love… BRENTWOOD
How to a spend a day in the popular Essex town
Brentwood’s story begins in the trees. For much of prehistory this corner of Essex was deep within the Great Forest, with only scattered signs of early human activity such as a Bronze Age axe and an earthwork camp in what is now Weald Country Park.
The town itself didn’t really emerge until the medieval period, when its location on key routes started to matter more than the surrounding woodland. The very name “Brentwood” comes from the Middle English brent meaning “burnt” – most likely referring to a burnt clearing in the forest that created space for settlement and charcoal burning.
The turning point came with the martyrdom of Thomas Becket in 1170. Pilgrims heading from the Midlands and East Anglia to his shrine at Canterbury needed a reliable route; one of the most convenient crossed the River Thames by ferry at Tilbury
and passed through Brentwood. A chapel dedicated to St Thomas was built in the early 13th century, and Brentwood quickly became a favoured stopping point for pious travellers. Today the small ruin of the medieval chapel still sits, almost unexpectedly, just o the High Street – an evocative reminder that the bustle of modern Brentwood grew up around religion, hospitality and the trade that followed pilgrims’ purse strings.
In 1227 Henry III granted a royal charter for a market, cementing Brentwood’s role as a centre of commerce for the surrounding agricultural district. Italian merchants in the medieval cloth and wool trade did brisk business here, while the town’s position on the great road between London and Colchester also brought coaches, traders and later commuters.
Coaching inns flourished, giving Brentwood a reputation for food, lodging and a lively high street long before the age of reality TV made it a household name.
PLACES OF INTEREST TO VISIT TODAY
If you’re arriving with only a vague impression of “Essex nightlife” in your head, Brentwood quickly surprises you. Start in the town centre, where the tiny remains of St Thomas Becket’s medieval chapel hide among shops and cafés, then walk a short distance to Brentwood Cathedral on Ingrave Road. Originally a Victorian parish church, it was elevated to cathedral status in 1917 and remodelled into an elegant Italianate building with a light, almost Mediterranean interior – a striking contrast to the flintier parish churches elsewhere in the county. Families are spoiled for choice. Old MacDonald’s Farm & Fun Park, just outside town, mixes classic farm animals with rides, indoor soft play and plenty of hands-on encounters; it’s the sort of place you can easily spend a whole day, particularly with younger children.
A short drive away, Hopefield Animal Sanctuary cares for hundreds of rescued animals and o ers a gentler, more educational day out – perfect if you like your fun with a side order of animal welfare advocacy.
For outdoor types, Brentwood’s ring of country parks is the town’s real trump card. Thorndon Country Park combines woods, meadows and lakes with a hugely popular Gru alo Trail, where youngsters can hunt for sculpted characters from the beloved children’s book among the trees. Weald Country Park, once the grounds of a grand Tudor and Georgian house, o ers sweeping views, deer, and the Stick Man play trail inspired by another Julia Donaldson story. Together they make Brentwood feel much leafier and more rural than its busy high street might suggest.
If you prefer your adrenaline manmade, you can head to the Brentwood Ski and Snowboard Centre in Warley, where dry slopes and tubing runs keep both beginners and more confident skiers entertained year-round. Nearby, high-wire courses and adventure activities add another layer of thrills.
To the north, the famous “Secret Nuclear Bunker” at Kelvedon Hatch – once a top-secret government facility designed to house regional o cials in the event of a nuclear strike – now opens its blast
doors to visitors. You descend through narrow corridors into a time capsule of Cold War control rooms, dormitories and chillingly optimistic information posters. Round things o with a look at Mountnessing Windmill, just a short hop away. This classic post mill, one of several historic mills in Essex, o ers a glimpse of the rural past that surrounded Brentwood before the coming of the railway and the motor car.
ARTS AND CULTURE
Despite its modest size, Brentwood supports a surprisingly busy arts scene, thanks in part to a passionate network of local societies and volunteers coordinated by the Brentwood Arts Council. More than 70 arts organisations and groups operate in the borough, from choirs and orchestras to drama troupes, visual arts collectives and literary circles. At the heart of this cultural ecosystem is Brentwood Theatre, an intimate venue which functions as a home-from-home for community performance groups. Its programme leans heavily into local talent: amateur dramatics, youth theatre groups, dance schools and touring smallscale productions all tread its stage. The theatre’s cosy size means you’re never far from the action, and it plays an important role in nurturing performers who might
OLD MACDONALD'S FARM
BRENTWOOD CATHEDRAL
otherwise struggle to find a platform (and you may just catch a star of tomorrow).
For visual arts, Brentwood and its surrounding area o er several galleries, with Brandler Galleries in the town noted for its contemporary and street art exhibitions.
Pop-up shows, open studios and craft fairs appear regularly throughout the year, often advertised via community networks and social media rather than big national listings, so it’s worth keeping an eye on local noticeboards and websites.
Music lovers find plenty to enjoy too. Brentwood Cathedral hosts concerts and recitals that make the most of its acoustics, while various churches and halls in the borough stage choral performances, brass bands and jazz evenings.
On a larger scale, the Brentwood Centre functions as the town’s arena venue, drawing in touring music acts, tribute shows and large-scale events that sit somewhere between concert and spectacle.
FOOD AND DRINK
After all that history and fresh air, you’ll want somewhere to refuel, and Brentwood’s reputation as a place of hospitality is alive and well. The High Street and its surrounding roads blend independent cafés with well-known chains, alongside restaurants ranging from relaxed pizzerias to smarter dining rooms ideal for celebrations. Visit Essex highlights the town’s mix of independent shops, popular
restaurants and a “vibrant club scene”, reflecting the way Brentwood serves both long-term residents and weekend visitors looking for a lively night out.
Traditional pubs are still easy to find, often tucked just o the main drag. Many, like the Rose & Crown, trade on a mix of historic character and modern comfort: low beams and cosy corners paired with decent gastropub menus and Sunday roasts.
Elsewhere you’ll discover contemporary bars catering to a younger crowd, with cocktails, DJ sets and late licences keeping the town buzzing long after the shops have shut.
Co ee culture is strong, with a scatter of independents doing good espresso, cakes and brunches – ideal if you’ve been out walking in the country parks and want to warm up with something comforting. In the surrounding villages such as Shenfield and Ingatestone, tea rooms and village pubs o er slightly quieter, more rural-feeling alternatives, often with beer gardens that come into their own on sunny evenings.
Food-wise, Brentwood leans towards the eclectic rather than the ultra-highend: you’re more likely to find hearty Mediterranean dishes, Indian and Pan-Asian favourites, burgers and sharing plates than formal tasting menus. That said, the town’s a uence and commuter links mean there’s steady demand for quality, so chefs tend to push beyond the purely predictable, and there’s a steady churn of new openings alongside stalwart favourites.
Did you know?
Five facts you may (or may not) know about
1. IT PLAYED A QUIET ROLE IN EARLY RAILWAY COMMUTING CULTURE
When the Great Eastern Railway reached Brentwood in the 1840s, it helped pioneer the idea of the daily commuter town. Middle-class London workers began settling here far earlier than in many other Essex towns, shaping Brentwood’s long-standing reputation for relative affluence and tidy suburbia rather than heavy industry.
2. BRENTWOOD WAS ONCE ASSOCIATED WITH BRICKMAKING RATHER THAN FARMING
Beneath parts of the town lie deposits of London Clay, which supported small-scale brick and tile production in the 18th and 19th centuries. These bricks helped build local houses and outbuildings, even though the industry never became dominant enough to define the town’s identity.
3. IT HAS AN UNUSUALLY HIGH NUMBER OF HISTORIC SCHOOL FOUNDATIONS
Brentwood School, founded in 1557 under Edward VI, places the town among a small group of English settlements with continuously operating Tudor-era grammar schools. This long educational tradition subtly influenced the area’s cultural and professional profile over centuries.
4. THE TOWN SITS ON A HISTORIC COUNTY BOUNDARY ZONE
Brentwood lies close to where Essex once blurred into Middlesex and London’s sphere of influence. For centuries it functioned as a social and economic “edge town”, balancing rural Essex life with the pull of the capital.
5. PARTS OF MODERN BRENTWOOD FOLLOW MEDIEVAL FIELD PATTERNS
Although the town has expanded significantly, some road layouts and property boundaries still echo medieval strip fields and woodland clearings. These are largely invisible unless you look at old maps, but they quietly shape how the town grew around its core.
THERE ARE PLENTY OF TOP SUNDAY ROASTS ON OFFER
Brentwood
Be careful what you wish for, they say. Into the Woods is a striking new production at the Bridge Theatre with a strong visual identity and a slick way with words.
Stephen Sondheim’s musical premiered on Broadway in 1987 and its dark themes combine with catchy tunes and comedic scenes to form a hugely original and likeable piece.
It’s a clever and playful interlacing of several fairytales, centred around a wood, where our characters all find themselves. The story is wild: a baker and his wife discover that the reason for their childlessness is a curse set on them by the witch who lives next door. She agrees to lift the curse only if they deliver four specific items to her: a cow, a cape, some hair and a golden slipper. And into the woods they go in search of these, all the while to a looping,
WOODS
A new production of Stephen Sondheim's musical comes to the Bridge Theatre
Words PENDLE HARTE
Photography SCARLETT CARLOS CLARKE
creatively rhyming chorus: "Into the woods to get the thing that makes it worth the journeying."
From there it’s a tale of conflicting missions and crossed paths. Little Red Riding Hood is on her way to see grandmother, while Cinderella is on her way to the ball and Jack is selling his cow for a handful of beans.
Visually, it’s a delight, with a luscious, fairytale wood and costumes resembling illustrations in a Brothers Grimm anthology. But it’s
“Red Riding Hood escapes from the lascivious wolf covered in blood”
not innocent: Red Riding Hood escapes from the lascivious wolf covered in blood, as does Grandmother, while Cinderella’s stepmother merrily amputates her daughter’s toe in the hope of fitting the slipper. At the end of the first half, a happy ending is celebrated by all – though after the interval, the temperature changes. We’re not out of the woods yet. Giants arrive in search of revenge and retribution, and everyone turns on each other, seeking blame. The second half is markedly less madcap, and takes on a darker, slightly moralistic tone. Fairytales are all about warnings and here we have plenty. But the realy joy of Into the Woods lies in the language, its clever rhythms, repeats and emphasis, and the way it connects with the music which is quirky, leading to unexpected places. This show is a hit.
Until 30 May; bridgetheatre.co.uk
A
NEW YEAR DESERVES A FRESH BEGINNING
Enjoy lighter Italian dishes this January - o ering perfect balance without compromising on luxury. From fresh salads and comforting soups to seasonal vegetables and lean proteins, every dish highlights clean, elegant flavours, bringing wellness and indulgence together in every bite.
FOOD & DRINK
Make a toast
GALVIN LA CHAPELLE
Fan of Galvin Green Man? Then a trip to Michelin-starred Galvin La Chapelle in E1 is in order as it launches its new Toast & Taste celebration menu. Designed to champion exceptional cooking at an accessible price point, the Toast & Taste menu offers five courses for £49pp. galvinrestaurants.com
Special treat
With Valentine’s around the corner, we visit some of Essex’s cosiest and romantic pubs
This time of year is ideal for a winter ramble before retreating to a cosy warm pub. The county has a great selection of pubs set in picturesque villages and pretty countryside. Visit Essex, the county’s tourism organisation, highlights the best rustic pubs that give the warmest welcome and finest food.
Cricketers Arms, Rickling Green
Located beside the cricket ground in the beautiful village of Rickling Green near Stansted, the Cricketers Arms is an 18thcentury pub with a great reputation for locally sourced food and drink. The cosy oak beamed bar is home to a carefully curated selection of the very best craft ales, ciders and spirits. It also o ers its famed Sunday lunch ‘tear and share’ lamb shoulder and three meats ‘pig ‘n’ mix’ roast.
The Ash, Burton End
The Ash is a stunning thatched pub set in the village of Burton End, near Stansted. It is a quintessential British country pub o ering beautifully cooked traditional food. The Ash oozes rural pub charm.
Railway Arms, Saffron Walden
In the beautiful market town of Sa ron Walden, the Railway Arms is a welcoming community owned pub with a relaxed atmosphere and friendly sta . The pub o ers tasty bar snacks and food trucks each Thursday. The Railway Arms is a CAMRA award-winning pub and serves traditional ales and homemade cider. It o ers a mix of Victorian charm and
contemporary touches making it the ideal place to warm up and toast the season.
Rayleigh Arms, Terling
Set in the quaint little village of Terling, near Witham, the Rayleigh Arms is a familyrun country pub with lots of character. Low beams, roaring fires and rustic furnishings create a cosy winter refuge. The kitchen focuses on classic British flavours and fresh seasonal ingredients for their burgers, tacos and classic dishes. The Georgian pub is a relaxed place to while away an afternoon or an evening, soaking up village life with a pint or a glass of something full-bodied.
Punch Bowl, Paglesham
Steeped in history and set deep in the Essex countryside, the white weatherboarded Punch Bowl in the heart of Paglesham, Rochford, combines old world charm with modern comfort. Its winter menu brims with hearty dishes with all ingredients sourced from local farms. The Sunday roast is very popular, so make sure to
book ahead! The bar o ers a wide range of local ales, including the Black Box Brewery. It’s a cosy retreat for those seeking traditional hospitality and the perfect base for exploring the surrounding network of footpaths over the nearby saltmarshes. Walkers may even find the last known resting place of HMS Beagle, the ship that carried Charles Darwin on his explorations.
Cricketers, Clavering
For a pub steeped in food history, step into the Cricketers in Clavering, once run by Jamie Oliver’s parents. The pub has everything you could ask for: exposed timber beams, modern contemporary furniture and a roaring log fire. The Cricketers o ers a standout restaurant, with seasonal dishes and local produce. Highlights on the menu include mouthwatering steaks, burgers, pies, soups and roasts. Ramblers will love the village of Clavering; it is a joy to explore. Thatched cottages, rolling fields and even the remains of Clavering Castle to discover.
Axe and Compass, Arkesden
In the tiny, picturesque village of Arkesden, near Clavering, sits the stunning Axe and Compass. The thatched pub is an inviting, centuriesold pub with open fires, low ceilings and a warm welcome. Expect full bodied ales and comforting pub staples. The menu champions seasonal, locally sourced produce, and adds a taste of the Mediterranean with Greek favourites, such as moussaka and lamb kebabs to reflect the owner’s heritage. The pub has been run for over 30 years by the Christou family.
Sun Inn, Dedham
Right in the heart of Constable Country, Dedham’s Sun Inn is a beautifully restored coaching inn. It o ers rustic Italianinspired dishes with a British countryside twist such as tagliatelle alle ragu with slow-cooked beef shin. Its wood-panelled spaces, open fires and candlelit tables create an irresistibly cosy winter retreat. After walking along the River Stour, there’s no better place to sink a pint of ‘Brewers Gold’ or enjoy fine dishes made with the very best local ingredients.
Galvin Green Man, Howe Street
Looking for fine food and exquisite drinks? Then the Galvin Brothers’ Green Man is perfect for you. The pub dates from 1341; under the ownership of the Michelin starred chefs, Chris and Je Galvin, it has been lovingly restored and revamped to o er a contemporary dining experience. The Green Man is set in acres of riverside meadows just outside Chelmsford in Howe Street. While the main pub restaurant is open plan with a warming wood stove, the pub also o ers five private dining rooms, each with their own distinct character, that can seat between eight to 16 guests. Apart from high quality food the bar o ers
cocktails and mocktails, a large selection of whiskeys and other spirits, low and no alcohol drinks, fine wines, beers and ciders.
Three Horseshoes, Fordham
A traditional country pub with an easy-going charm, the Three Horseshoes in Fordham, near Colchester, o ers hearty classics, a warm welcome and a cosy bar perfect for winter evenings. It’s the kind of pub where muddy boots and dogs are never an issue and the atmosphere is always cheerful.
Lion Inn, Boreham
Located just outside Chelmsford, the Lion Inn is one of the best pub restaurants in Essex. It serves modern pub classics with a twist, plus speciality dishes crafted from the best locally sourced ingredients. The bar is a standout feature in the Lion’s dining
room, dominating the entrance with its stunning design and extensive selection of locally brewed ales, craft beers, fine wines and cocktails. The Lion Inn o ers all the perfect ingredients for good times.
Victory Inn, Mersea Island
Drive over the Strood onto Mersea Island to find a pub that o ers hearty meals and stunning views over its natural harbour and marina. The Victory is a family-owned pub that gives a warm introduction to island life. It o ers pub classics, delicious pizzas, seafood ‘pots’ and much more. To fully enjoy the island experience, you can spend the night in one of the Victory’s 10 delightful rooms, some of which overlook the Blackwater Estuary.
To discover more, go to visitessex.com
GALVIN GREEN MAN
THREE HORSESHOES
THE VICTORY
The Ash, Burton End
Wild at heart
Newly launched and proudly wild-fermented, Vyn Dene’s low-intervention wines bring natural charm and a delicious hint of unpredictability. Fresh, textural, and full of character, they are guaranteed to spark curiosity, and possibly a second date, £24-£28. vyndene.com
Bad Romance
Irresistible bottles for Valentine’s Day sipping
By NATALIA SUTA
Soft Spot
Smooth, stylish, and sustainably made, Tread Softly’s range combines freshness, finesse and eco-cred, wrapped in beautifully eye-catching labels. Light on alcohol and gentle in feel, they’re spot-on for slow, romantic dinners without the heavy head, £10. waitrosecellar.com
Flirt Alert
If you want a wine that does some flirting for you, De Krans’ Pink Moscato is your best move. This South African rosé is lightly fizzy, delicately sweet, and bursting with strawberry, tropical fruit, and candy-floss charm, £15. acrmwineukltd. myshopify.com
Bold, dark and rebellious, Orin Swift’s Advice From John is Merlot with attitude, packed with blackberry, espresso and plush texture. A perfect Valentine’s pick for rulebreakers, late nights, and dates that don’t play it safe, £35. vinvm.co.uk
Petite Amour
Tiny Wine’s miniature bottles of premium wine are tailor-made for intimate evenings – no commitment, no leftovers, just perfectly sized fine wine for two. Cute, classy, and ideal for bathtub bubbles or fireside flirting. From £18. tinywine.co.uk
Natalia Suta is a WSET-certified wine writer and educator with a knack for making wine accessible and fun. When she is not writing, she’s busy curating wine experiences and offering consultancy to help others discover the joy of wine. Follow Natalia on Instagram @_winerocks_
FASHION
Ski season
DIOR
Part of the DiorAlps capsule, the turtleneck sweater is a laid-back creation with a couture look. Crafted in a navy blue and white alpaca, cotton and wool knit, it features a Fair Isle motif inspired by the winter sports universe, embellished with the CD signature on the back. dior.com
Quite the
occasion
Ascot has launched its third Jumps Season Lookbook, which will add stylish drama to any winter event
Love token
Sparkly trinkets for Valentine's Day
By EVE HERBERT
ANITA KO
Diamond oyster and pearl necklace, £7,263 anitako.com
Tulip enamelled drop earrings, £450 selfridges.com
ANITA KO
Pearl and diamond Lola huggies, £5,658 anitako.com
ASHLEY ZHANG JEWELRY
Double bezel diamond baroque pearl pendant and small belcher chain, £1,400 ashleyzhangjewelry.com
Where Confidence Begins SUBTLE.
PERSONAL. EXCEPTIONAL.
At Ashlyn’s MediSpa, advanced medical aesthetics are grounded in clinical expertise and evidence-based practice. Every treatment begins with a comprehensive skin assessment and is individually prescribed to optimise skin health, restore structure, and improve function. Results are precise, subtle, and designed to enhance—never distort—your natural appearance.
BOOK YOUR PRIVATE CONSULTATION
BEAUTY NOTES
The latest in luxury makeup and skincare
By PENDLE HARTE
HAIR
DYSON
Dyson Beauty’s new Amber Silk colourway is a warm and sophisticated take on their most coveted hair-care tools with its sumptuous finish and so , diffused glow. dyson.co.uk
HERO HOME TECH
EDITOR’S PICK
VITA VITAE
The new Vita Vitae micro-needling device is redefining at-home skincare. The kit includes two powerful, scientifically engineered serum boosters with an easy-touse advanced device that features 24K gold-plated micro-needles that increase serum absorption. vitavitaebeauty.co.uk
LUXE fragrance
BRUNELLO CUCINELLI
Brunello Cucinelli has launched three new fragrances. Expanding the Incanti Poetici collection, the three new additions created with master perfumers Alberto Morillas and Jordi Fernández are Segreto (floral, citrus) Silenzio (woody, spicy, amber) and Ricordo (floral, woody). brunellocucinelli.com
The Ukranian manicurists
Ihad never had a Ukranian manicure before. How di erent can it be? This is So. Shell’s newest outpost in London, and all the sta are Ukranian. The vibe is clinical and businesslike; manicures are serious business. There’s not much introduction and my smiling therapist studies my nails carefully to start, and they’re a disgrace: my cuticles are dry and ragged, there’s flaking polish on my nails and they are a bit jagged. Immediately she begins clipping and filing – but there’s no soaking, no lotion, no oil. The main characteristic of a Ukranian manicure is that it’s totally dry, and based on precision shaping and perfecting. This takes some time, and involves an electric tool with several di erent attachments – it’s like a miniature sander, used for removing dry skin and it’s seriously e ective. The no-lotion philosophy means that your skin is exposed with all its true defects, and the technician is inspecting my hands extremely closely. The results are the neatest nails I’ve ever seen, free of any uneveness or dryness, and a perfect starting point for polish. Everybody seems surprised when I choose regular polish over gels – and I’m sure that gels would have looked fantastic and lasted for weeks, but I just can’t get on with them. My regular polish, in a shade of dark chocolate brown, is shiny and perfect. Topcoat is applied after they’re dry, which means that I need to wait twice – but for the sake of lasting nails, who’s complaining? I’m delighted with the Ukranian way.
So.Shell 27 Shorts Gardens, WC2 soshell.uk
By PENDLE HARTE
INTERIORS
LIVE LIFE TO THE FULL
CARIBBEAN BLINDS
Step outside in style this year with a fabulous pergola from Caribbean Blinds. Offering shade, shelter and sophistication, a pergola transforms your garden into a stunning outdoor living space. Each pergola in Caribbean Blinds’ range is designed to complement your home while withstanding the elements. Bring elegance and comfort to your Essex garden and enjoy outdoor life to the fullest, whatever the season. cbsolarshading.co.uk
BARN stormer
A unique transformation in Essex was shortlisted for RIBA House of the Year. Absolutely takes a closer look
The RIBA House of the Year Award is one of the most prestigious accolades in British architecture, celebrating the very best new houses delivered by UK architects. Established originally as the Manser Medal in 2001 and later renamed in 2015, the award recognises exemplary one-o homes or substantial domestic transformations that demonstrate architectural innovation, craftsmanship, and excellence in design. Unlike many awards, it places equal emphasis on how a house is lived in as well as how it looks, rewarding projects that respond intelligently to their context, landscape, and occupants.
Judged by an expert panel of architects and designers, the shortlisted homes are rigorously assessed for sustainability, material quality, conceptual clarity, and delight in everyday use. The competition has also gained a wide public profile through its annual TV partnership with the BBC, bringing contemporary residential architecture into mainstream cultural conversation. The award celebrates not only architectural ambition, but the collaboration between clients, designers, and craftsmen. Jankes Barn, in Essex, by Lynch Architects made the shortlist for the 2025 awards and here the jury explain why...
A former agricultural building in rural Essex has been not only saved, but carefully and intelligently nurtured, transformed into an exemplar of conservation and renewal. Jankes Barn demonstrates what can be achieved when architectural sensitivity is paired with patience, craftsmanship, and a deep respect for an existing structure. It is not simply a conversion project; it is a thoughtful reimagining that both honours the barn’s past and secures its future.
The client’s personal attachment to the building is palpable and becomes part of the architectural story. She recalled to the jury the first time she peered through the old barn doors and glimpsed the majestic timber skeleton inside: it was an instant emotional connection. Years later, that sense of wonder has been carefully preserved. The architects have worked with her – not merely for her – to create a space that continues to bring daily joy, memory, and meaning. The project is therefore as much about stewardship as design, and stands as a credit to everyone involved in what was, at times, a highly complex and delicate construction sequence.
The main barn remains within the protective embrace of the old farmyard enclosure. The yard, once purely functional, has now become an exquisitely landscaped
courtyard garden. Crucially, the overall spatial scale and agricultural identity have been retained; what has changed is the refinement of every element within it. Windows, doors, rainwater goods, paving, and junctions are all unashamedly contemporary yet respond quietly to the gravity of the historic structure. This is not pastiche. It is a calm, confident layering of time, one in which the modern elements support rather than shout over the original fabric. Symbolism and experience matter here. The ceremonial entrance remains through the great barn doors, retained like a relic yet now flung open to reveal a finely detailed glazed screen behind. Passing through this threshold, visitors are confronted with the splendour of the restored timber frame. The original structure has been painstakingly repaired, every scar and irregularity proudly
retained. Replacement components, also in oak, are purposefully square-edged and fresh, distinguishing old from new and telling the story of intervention honestly.
Despite its new life as a domestic environment, the building remains fundamentally a barn. The great volume of the central space is preserved, uncarved by conventional corridors and rooms. Instead, domestic insertions – the kitchen, a study cube, the fireplace – are carefully placed within the greater order of the structure. They read as contemporary furniture within a monumental timber hall. More cellular rooms exist only at the edge: subsidiary structures and outbuildings house bedrooms and private spaces, allowing the main barn to remain spatially powerful, both intimate and awe-inspiring. This balance between domestic comfort and architectural drama is one of the project’s finest achievements.
The final result is a building that is serene, yet powerful
Material restraint underpins everything. Flooring is laid in beautiful brickwork, arranged meticulously in a grid pattern that continues seamlessly outside, but without mortar externally, subtly shifting character as it transitions into the landscape. This quiet continuity draws together interior and exterior, building and land.
An essential chapter in the project’s story is the early involvement of local timber expert and master carpenter Dr Joseph Bispham. With the client leading the early conservation phase, the building was stripped back to its skeletal timber frame. Bispham then set about stabilising, restoring, and reinforcing the structure, ensuring it was sound before any architectural refinements began. Only after this careful first stage was a main contract let, with Lynch Architects overseeing and developing the design. This unusual two-stage process arguably liberated the architectural thinking: by deeply understanding the original structure first, the architects were able to design with a clarity and freedom grounded in knowledge.
The new cladding is emblematic of this approach. Structural strengthening, birchfaced ply linings internally, and traditional black timber boarding externally have been composed with extraordinary precision. The new layers butt against and wrap around the historic frame, forming a protective outer skin that feels both robust and respectful. The flanking side volumes, which contain bedrooms, are also lined in birch ply, creating warm yet controlled interior atmospheres. Each incorporates dynamic bathroom pods with folding privacy doors and translucent ceiling panels that invite daylight or allow for soft night illumination.
Landscape and setting are integral to the architectural resolution. Beyond the
central axis of the barn, the view opens to the surrounding countryside, culminating in a tranquil square pool of water set within a perennial meadow. This is not decorative landscaping, but a considered extension of the architectural concept: the building, once a machine for working the land, now frames and celebrates it. Remarkably, much of the landscape design was carried out by the client herself, who is a garden designer. Her hand in the project reinforces the sense of continuity between past use, present enjoyment, and future custodianship.
To understand why this project feels so composed, it is worth acknowledging Lynch Architects’ design ethos. Led by Patrick Lynch, the practice has developed a reputation for projects that engage deeply with place, culture, and material integrity. Their work often resists architectural
fashion in favour of seriousness, craft, and longevity. Here, those values are clearly evident: there is no gimmickry, no superficial gestures. Instead, there is careful thinking, elegant detailing, and an unwavering commitment to doing things properly.
The jury were impressed not only by the conservation care exercised, but equally by the confident contemporary interventions. This project proves that heritage need not be protected through timidity; modernity can co-exist with tradition without eroding it. The final result is a building that is graceful yet tough, serene yet powerful, deeply rooted in its agricultural past yet entirely relevant to contemporary life.
Jankes Barn stands as a robust and enduring piece of rural architecture – renewed, respected, and ready for generations to come.
A world of COMFORT
Jensen: Norwegian sleep pioneers since 1947
SVELVIK, NORWAY
Every Jensen bed that leaves their factory today has a story that begins almost 80 years ago. A story of craftsmanship and innovation, but also responsibility. They still build their beds in Norway, with materials and methods that stand the test of time. To underline that, your new Jensen bed comes with a 25-year guarantee against frame or spring breakages.
FROM NORWAY TO THE WORLD
What started as a small family business is today a premium brand with beds and accessories of the highest quality. And while they are proud of their heritage, they never let it stand in the way of new ideas. For example, they always apply the latest findings in sleep science and physiology to the development of new beds. They use all their expertise and curiosity to improve people’s rest – and thereby their performance. It’s a story of craftsmanship and innovation,
but also responsibility. They still build their beds in Norway, with materials and methods that stand the test of time.
BEDS MADE FROM PASSION
While technology and the automation of their production have made it more e cient, it’s the people that make their beds what they are. Some of their employees are now the third generation of passionate bed-builders at their factory in Svelvik, just outside of Oslo. Together, they are dedicated to making a long-lasting contribution to sleep comfort.
THE SLEEP THAT MAKES YOUR DAY
At Jensen, they have made it their purpose to help you wake up fully rested. From design to choice of materials, every detail in their beds is carefully chosen to improve your sleep quality – and thereby your performance.
It’s not always easy to know what to look for in a product that is meant to be a longterm investment in your sleep and well-being.
A mattress should help the body relax, reduce pressure points, and provide the right level of support. Your sleeping position can give a useful indication of what type of bed may suit you best, but it should never be the only factor when making your final choice. Jensen understand how easy it is to feel overwhelmed when choosing a bed – there are many options to consider, from bed types and firmness levels to zoning systems. That’s exactly why they encourage you to ask for help in store. They recommend visiting their London showroom at Chelsea Harbour when you’re buying a bed. Their team consists of trained sleep specialists with in-depth knowledge of the di erent models. They will guide you in the right direction from the very beginning, so you don’t end up trying too many beds and leaving more confused than when you arrived.
Find out more by calling 020 3914 1262, emailing jensenbeds.chelseaharbour@ hildinganders.com, or visit jensen-beds.com
YOUR SPACE.
Refresh your home and garden for the year ahead with stylish external blinds, awnings & pergolas from Caribbean Blinds.
As winter winds fade and spring sunshine beckons, create the perfect space to relax, entertain, and enjoy every moment; morning coffees, sunny afternoons, or balmy evenings, whatever the weather. Our all-weather external shading systems, with optional ambient lighting, heating, and side panels, let you make the most of your outdoor space all year round.
Right now, take advantage of:
✔ Out of season savings
Limited time only
✔ Made in Britain & installed in 2-3 weeks
Enjoy your upgrade sooner
✔ Up to 10 year guarantee
Complete peace of mind
Spring into comfort and style! Upgrade your lifestyle and transform your home and garden into your ultimate living space, tailored to you, 365 days a year. info@cbsolarshading.co.uk www.cbsolarshading.co.uk
800 1947
By PENDLE HARTE
JYSK
Thore vase, £4.50 jysk.co.uk
SAINTS GO Nkosana Stoneware vase, £43 wheresaintsgo.co.uk
REX LONDON Ceramic fi sh vase, £9.95 rexlondon.com
RUMA Black vase with handles, £45 ruma.co.uk
RV ASTLEY
Igino vase set of two, £144 limelace.co.uk
MINDTHEGAP
Suzani floral lampshade, £160 mindtheg.uk
HOUSE OF HACKNEY
Golden Lily Circus wallpaper, £195 per roll houseo ackney.com
CASA BY JJ
Beatrice dinner plates, set of six, £80 casabyjj.com
Rhododendron wallpaper in Hicks Blue, £POA littlegreene.com
PRETTY TIFFIN
Mess plate set of four, £52.99 prettytiffin.co.uk
IThe gazebos o er open-air luxury, with the option to enclose the space
TIMELESS LIVING
Crown Pavilions: luxury garden buildings for all seasons
n February, most gardens fall still. The grass frosts over, furniture is packed away, and outdoor spaces retreat behind walls and windows. But for those who value year-round use of their garden, winter doesn’t have to mean switching o , it can simply mean using the space di erently.
At Crown Pavilions, they design and build garden buildings intended for use and enjoyment throughout the year. Their range includes insulated garden rooms, gazebos, summerhouses, garden shelters, equestrian buildings and fully bespoke outdoor structures, all handcrafted in Oxfordshire and tailored to individual lifestyles and settings.
Their insulated garden rooms are designed to provide a comfortable, enclosed space in all seasons. Built with high-quality insulation, double glazing and robust weatherproofing, they remain bright, warm and usable even during colder months.
These spaces are commonly used as home o ces, gyms, studios or quiet retreats – carefully designed to balance practicality with understated design. Interior options such as air conditioning, ambient lighting and bespoke layouts allow the space to be adapted for di erent uses across the year. If you intend to use your garden room as a residential, dwelling or living space, additional upgrades and specifications may be required. Their team of experts would be delighted to guide you through the available options to suit your intended use. Their gazebos o er open-air luxury, with the option to enclose the space using marine-grade canvas curtains and blinds. Crafted from European Redwood and finished with thatched or blue-label Western Red Cedar shingles – the highest quality available – they provide the perfect setting for alfresco dining, hot tub enclosures
or simply enjoying the garden, come rain or shine. With optional heating and integrated lighting, many clients enjoy their gazebo well into the cooler months. Each Crown Pavilion is carefully designed to suit its setting and purpose. As the seasons shift, your space adapts with you, welcoming spring mornings, summer soirées, autumn reflection and winter calm. Whether you’re seeking a practical space, a place to escape, or a structure that enhances your everyday, Crown Pavilions delivers luxury that lasts, garden buildings made for all seasons, and all lifestyles.
Visit
a Crown Pavilions Show Site
To truly appreciate the quality, atmosphere and design of a Crown structure, nothing compares to stepping inside. Visit show sites at: Chessington Garden Centre, London Longacres Garden Centre, Bagshot, Surrey Van Hage Garden Centre, Ware, Hertfordshire Alton Garden Centre, Essex Frosts Garden Centre, Woburn Sands, Milton Keynes Bridgemere Garden Centre, Cheshire
Exclusive Reader Offer For a limited time, Absolutely readers will receive an exclusive 10% OFF, applicable to all installations completed before March 2026. To invest in Crown Pavilions is to invest in a lifestyle, one defined by elegance, excellence and enduring luxury.
Discover what makes St Margaret's Prep, Halstead, an exceptional place. On 27th March, their open day is a perfect opportunity for visitors to see how they help every child be prepared – for everything. Visitors can witness the supportive environment where children truly thrive.
stmargaretsprep.com
TONY
STANDING OVATION
For over 35 years, Performers College Essex has o ered students the opportunity to pursue their dreams in musical theatre, acting, and dance. We take to the stage to find out more
FOLLOWELL
Pro-Vice Chancellor – Performing Arts
Q How did Performers College evolve from its origins to become the multicampus institution it is today?
A Performers College was founded in 1988 in Essex with a mission to prepare performers for professional careers. The purpose-built Corringham campus opened in 2001 as a specialist performing arts training centre. In 2021, the college expanded with a new campus in Birmingham’s creative Digbeth district. A significant milestone came in 2024 when Performers College merged with ICTheatre, a respected institution that had opened campuses in Brighton (2016) and Manchester (2020). Both colleges were already part of BIMM University, and the merger unified nearly 40 years of combined expertise under the Performers College brand. Today, Performers College operates four campuses across Birmingham, Brighton, Essex and Manchester, with specialist courses and facilities at each campus, o ering industry-focused training backed by BIMM University’s
academic rigour and the collaborative opportunities that come from being part of a wider creative arts institution.
Q What is the core mission or ethos of Performers College, and how do you ensure that remains consistent across all of your campuses?
A Our mission is to prepare talented performers for professional careers through rigorous, industry-focused training that combines technical excellence with creative freedom. This ethos remains consistent across Birmingham, Brighton, Essex and Manchester through key pillars: high-contact training (minimum 25 hours per week), teaching by working industry professionals, regular masterclasses and agent panel days, and a curriculum continuously updated to reflect current industry demands. All qualifications are awarded by BIMM University, ensuring academic rigour alongside vocational training, whilst our comprehensive wellbeing support and outstanding facilities ensure every student receives the same commitment to their development as a
versatile, resilient performer ready for professional work on stage and screen.
Q How have you adapted your curriculum and training methods over time to respond to changes in the performing arts industry?
A Our curriculum evolves continuously to reflect today’s performing arts landscape. We’ve expanded beyond
traditional stage training to include acting for screen and digital media, motion capture technology, and content creation for podcasts and short-form digital platforms. Recognising that modern performers need entrepreneurial skills, we’ve embedded modules on freelancing, audition technique, funding applications and business knowledge throughout our courses. We’ve also responded to industry demand for versatility – Musical Theatre courses now include film and TV acting components, whilst Acting students train across theatre, screen and recorded media. Regular consultation with industry professionals and feedback from employers ensures our training stays ahead of trends, preparing graduates for careers that continue to evolve.
Q What role do industry links and professional opportunities play in the institution’s background and how were these built historically?
A Industry connections have been fundamental since our founding – we were built on the principle that performing arts training should be led by working professionals with current industry experience. These
relationships deepened as we expanded to four campuses, each developing strong local partnerships with theatres, ballet companies and production houses. Our Creative Futures Team systematically organises Agent Panel Days, workshops and in-house auditions, whilst lecturers' own professional work creates direct pathways for students. In 2024/25 alone, these connections resulted in 109+ agents visiting our campuses, 162+ students signing with representation, and 149+ job o ers. This isn’t networking for its own sake – these relationships translate into genuine opportunities, with graduates appearing in productions from Hamilton and Wicked to major films like Barbie, Better Man and Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, plus performances at events like the BRIT Awards and Commonwealth Games.
Q How does Performers College di erentiate itself from other performing arts colleges in the UK?
A Our unique position comes from combining specialist vocational heritage with university-level academic credibility. Unlike drama schools, we o er the full university experience through BIMM University – comprehensive wellbeing
support, diverse societies and crossdisciplinary projects with musicians, filmmakers and game developers. Unlike traditional universities, we deliver intensive professional training in purpose-built facilities that mirror industry environments. We don’t just teach performance technique – we teach sustainable career-building, and students often graduate with their first professional contracts already secured through our systematic approach to agent representation and industry showcases. Our partnerships with organisations like Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures and Birmingham Royal Ballet mean students build genuine professional networks before they leave, supported by qualifications that are respected both nationally and internationally.
NIKKI O’HARA
Head of School at Performers College, Essex
Q How do the purpose-built facilities at the Essex campus di er from those at other campuses?
A Essex’s Corringham campus boasts over 30 dedicated spaces for dance, singing and acting that rival professional industry rehearsal facilities – including 18 dance studios with professional Harlequin Cascade floors, two 'black box' acting studios, a five-room vocal suite, a fully equipped gymnasium (free to students), a Studio Theatre, computer suite/library with 25+ PCs, and an on-site café (Piroueat). The Rayleigh campus (for Acting and Postgraduate students) features a professional-standard film studio, three acting studios, five dance studios, a bespoke rehearsal/production space developed in 2023, and a Mac suite with licensed Adobe, DaVinci and Logic software.
Q What role do industry-active lecturers play at the Essex campus?
A Industry-active lecturers like Kieran Jae (performed in approximately 20 West End productions), Kyle Seeley (currently dance supervisor worldwide for Disney, working on the new West End Hercules production and conducting auditions for The Greatest Showman), and Claire Cassidy (numerous West End, TV and film credits) bring current professional experience directly into teaching. The campus runs Workshop Wednesdays for all Level 6 students – weekly sessions with industry experts covering various aspects of performance and career development
– plus PCol Pop-Up masterclasses similar to professional classes at London studios like Pineapple or Base, but o ered at reduced rates and conveniently on campus for students across all levels.
Q How does the Essex campus facilitate professional opportunities for students as part of training?
A Essex o ers a sca olded approach to performance opportunities building from Level 4 through to Level 6, including tutor-led and devised performances, Creative Professional Performance modules, Final Showcases, plus optional summer productions and external events like Move It and Can You Dance. Industry connections provide unique opportunities including performances at live televised events such as the BRIT Awards, National Lottery New Year’s Eve Party and UEFA
PERFORMERS COLLEGE ESSEX HAS
ESTABLISHED EXCEPTIONAL INDUSTRY CONNECTIONS
Women’s European Championship Final, whilst the summer production takes place at Towngate Theatre.
Q Are there any campus-specific partnerships or local industry links in Essex that benefit students?
A Yes – Essex has established exceptional industry connections with leading Musical Theatre and Dance/Commercial agents in London and Europe including Mass Movement and AMCK, plus strong relationships with Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures, various cruise companies and pantomime producers. The campus regularly hosts agent panels with up to 40 agents visiting the site, and the acting course incorporates the worldclass Centroid facility for motion capture modules. Many lecturers actively work in West End productions and film/ TV, bringing their current industry connections directly to students.
Q Looking ahead, what developments are planned for the Essex campus?
A Recent developments include a new performance and rehearsal suite at the Rayleigh campus alongside the film studio, particularly benefiting BA (Hons) Acting students, and the Corringham campus has recently seen a fully upgraded gym facility. The faculty constantly assesses and refines the curriculum, teaching delivery methods and sta ng, too.
performerscollege.co.uk/essex
Where anything is possible.
WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN MORNING
Wednesday 18th March
9.30am to 11am
Set in the heart of Upminster, our independent prep school welcomes children aged 2½ to 11 where every child is known, understood and supported.
STAY & PLAY
Thursday 5th February
Wednesday 4th & 25th March
9.30am to 10.30am
Natural BENEFITS
Why you shouldn’t hibernate on outdoor learning this winter
By SARAH HOLYOAKE
Spending time outdoors improves your child’s wellbeing and helps them to build valuable skills, such as confidence, problemsolving and resilience. Yet, fewer and fewer children are spending time outdoors – especially in winter when the weather is less enticing. So, as a parent, how can you help them get outdoors to enjoy the benefits?
Spending time outdoors o ers many cognitive, emotional and academic benefits, which is why at Dame Bradbury’s we have a dedicated outdoor learning programme and o er Forest School. By giving our pupils space to enjoy the natural world around them, they develop important new skills and knowledge. Here are three ways that outdoor learning can benefit your child.
BUILDING LIFE SKILLS ONE BRANCH AT A TIME
Most children love being outdoors, so they find it naturally motivating while they build the foundational skills that are important for learning throughout their entire school experience – resilience, problem solving, creativity and more. Outdoor activities such as den building become an exercise in communication and teamwork when children need to carry branches and create a structure together. Even in winter, den building is a chance to learn about the natural world, including native trees and the wildlife that inhabit them.
At Dame Bradbury’s, our outdoor learning activities are often linked to topics that we are covering in the classroom and you can extend your child’s learning at home in the same way. Why not use your next family walk to collect leaves or stones of di erent shapes and sizes, then challenge your little one to place them
Cold or wet weather is a great way to engage problem-solving skills
in size or weight order? You can also use these same items to practice addition and subtraction together, or even handwriting by asking your child to trace or print the names of the colours or shapes they see onto paper.
UNDERSTANDING THE ENVIRONMENT AROUND THEM
At Dame Bradbury’s, our Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 classes enjoy weekly visits to Grove Wood in Elmdon, which is a great, inexpensive place to immerse yourself in nature. If you visit, taking a pair of binoculars with you can be a great way to spend time together trying to identify local birdlife. You can extend this activity by encouraging your child to describe or draw the birds that you spot together, building valuable scientific and creative skills at the same time. As trees have less foliage in the winter period, it can make it easier to spot those birds that are usually good at camouflaging themselves.
USING WEATHER TO CREATE LEARNING EXPERIENCES
Cold or wet weather is a great way to engage young people’s problem-solving skills. For instance, if one of our pupils is building a fairy house during Forest School and the rain washes it away, they strengthen their problem-solving skills by rebuilding and identifying ways to avoid this recurring.
Helping your child to develop the self-belief to have a go and independently explore their surroundings is important for their learning and academic success, no matter how old they are. In winter, this can be as easy as sledging down a hill, or navigating icy areas together to build their confidence. Spending time together outside in di erent weather can also inspire important conversations about how to dress safely and appropriately for the di erent conditions that your child will encounter throughout the year.
When spending time outdoors together this winter, shorter, more frequent sessions can be more enjoyable than longer sessions if the weather is especially cool. A thermal base layer, a hat, scarf and gloves, along with their winter coat and plenty of hot drinks, will help them to stay warm when you are outside – no matter how long for.
Finally, don’t be afraid to bring the outside in! Collecting natural materials to use for indoor activities, or reflecting together inside after a walk, can also be beneficial for your child and help them to develop key skills. So, no matter how you spend time outdoors this winter, know that by doing so, you are helping your child develop into a confident, resilient young learner.
Sarah Holyoake is Head of Early Years at Dame Bradbury’s Junior School in Sa ron Walden. Find out more at damebradburys. stephenperse.com/damebradburys
Music MATTERS
The School of Rock has opened in the UK and Absolutely joins the band to find out more
School of Rock London is a dynamic and immersive music school that empowers students of all ages and abilities to learn, play, and perform music in a band setting. Unlike traditional music tuition, the School of Rock philosophy blends private lessons with weekly group rehearsals so learners don’t just practise – they play rock songs together from early on, building both skill and confidence through real-world performance experiences. At its core is the globally recognised School of Rock Method™, a performance-based curriculum that uses popular rock music to teach technique, theory, and musicianship in
a way that’s exciting and engaging. Students at the new London location can take lessons on guitar, drums, bass, keyboard, or vocals, progressing from beginner to advanced levels and regularly playing live at local venues. With programmes tailored for young children, teens, and adults, School of Rock London nurtures creativity, teamwork, and stage presence. Whether you’re picking up an instrument for the first time or honing your performance chops, this school turns learning into an unforgettable rock-androll journey. Matias Puga-Hamilton, an entrepreneur and drummer enthusiast who has already launched 24 School of Rock franchises across Latin America, is leading the UK charge. Absolutely went to meet him.
Q Why was Twickenham chosen as the location for the first School of Rock in the UK?
A We chose Twickenham because of its rock background. It genuinely feels like the home of British rock. Being right next to Eel Pie Island, where The Rolling Stones, The Who, The Yardbirds and so many others started their careers, gives this place a special energy. When we decided to bring School of Rock to the UK, we knew we had to start where the story of British rock began. Twickenham also has a strong creative spirit and a community that values music, families and culture. We wanted to open a place that means something for the community and around music. Starting here
“WHETHER SOMEONE IS A BEGINNER OR ALREADY PLAYS, THEY CAN FEEL PART OF SOMETHING”
allows us to connect our students to a real musical legacy, “back to rock” where it all began.
Q What would we find at this School of Rock?
A You’ll find a proper music school built around real performance. We’ve transformed a beautiful Grade II listed former bank from 1904 into 14 studios designed for lessons, rehearsals and live playing. Every room is equipped like a real venue or rehearsal space. But more than the rooms, you’ll find a space to connect around music, to build a community. Students of all ages, instructors who are working musicians, and an environment that feels welcoming and fun. Whether someone is a complete beginner or already plays, they can walk in and feel part of something.
Q You’ve mentioned ambitions to open 50 schools nationwide – what milestones will determine the pace of expansion across the UK?
A For me, the most important thing is doing this well, not fast. First we wanted to make the first school a reality, and we wanted to do it properly, so it can set the basis for the ones to come. The pace will depend on a few key things, including how the market reacts, and so on.
Once we feel confident that everything is solid and replicable, we’ll move on to the next stage of growth. The number is achievable, but only if we stay focused on quality first, which is what we do at School of Rock.
Q How will School of Rock involve behindthe-scenes professionals such as tech crews, sound engineers, or venue partners?
A I’ve always believed that live music is a team e ort. We work with local sound engineers, technicians and venue teams
“TRADITIONAL LESSONS START WITH TECHNIQUE AND THEORY. WE DO THE OPPOSITE: WE START WITH SONGS AND PERFORMANCE”
for our live shows. Their support helps us create a real performance environment for the students, with proper sound and stage setup. It also allows us to build strong relationships with local venues, which is an important part of our model. Our focus is on the performance side, but having these professionals involved makes the overall experience much more authentic.
Q How do you plan to build partnerships with local venues and arts organisations to give students real performance opportunities?
A We want our students on real stages, in front of real audiences. It builds confidence, creates memories, and connects us to the local arts community in a genuine way. That’s
why performing in real venues is essential to our method. We’ve already started building relationships with venues in di erent parts of London, and we’ll continue to grow that network as we expand.
Q You’ve successfully opened 24 School of Rock franchises across Latin America. What insights or lessons from that experience are shaping your approach in the UK?
A The biggest lesson is that you can’t copypaste culture. Each place is di erent and takes its own time to develop and grow. You need to listen to the community, understand it, and adapt the model to fit.
What stays the same everywhere is the heart, and the essence of School of Rock: great instructors, strong student support, and a school that truly feels like a second home where students can learn music but can also develop very important soft skills. That’s what we’re bringing to the UK.
Q You’ve spoken about the impact School of Rock had on your own daughters. How does that personal experience influence the way you lead and expand the brand?
A It had a huge impact on me. When we were living in the US, my wife enrolled our daughters in School of Rock, and as soon as I saw them growing in confidence, making friends and discovering music in such a joyful way, I thought, “I need to try this myself”. So I joined the adult programme as well.
That experience helped me understand how powerful this method is and the real value it brings to families and individuals
of any age. Fast forward to today, and I now have a band with my daughters. I play the drums, and they sing and play keys. It’s an amazing experience. That personal journey guides me in every decision. I want other families to feel what we felt.
Q School of Rock emphasises learning through performing. How does this method di er from traditional music education, and why do you believe it resonates so strongly with young people?
A Traditional lessons usually start with technique and theory. We do the opposite. We start with songs and performance. Students play music they love from day one, and technique and theory come naturally as part of that journey. It feels fun, fast and social, and that’s why young people connect with it so strongly.
Q What opportunities will adult learners have within the UK schools, and how important is intergenerational creativity to the School of Rock model?
A For adults, it’s the opportunity to accomplish something many people have always wanted to do: be in a band. Our adult programme gives them the chance to learn an instrument, rehearse with others and perform live. We’ve seen how meaningful that is in our schools around the world, and we’re excited to o er the same here.
And I really enjoy seeing di erent generations sharing the same love for music. It naturally connects people, and that spirit is a really important part of who we are.
Q School of Rock is known for its ensemble-based approach. How do you support students who may be shy, neurodivergent, or completely new to performing in group settings?
A We meet each student where they are. Our instructors understand di erent learning styles, and the group format helps many students feel more comfortable and confident over time. It takes time, but we’ve had many success stories in other countries, and we’ve seen the impact the school can have on children and how it boosts their confidence.
Some of our most inspiring performances come from students who walked in nervous and unsure. Watching them grow is one of the best parts of this job.
schoolofrock.com
Let’s see who you are...
At Framlingham we believe in the individual. There is no typical Framlinghamian, no singular path that we take. Often, we are many things within one. Every pupil is valued for who they are. We are a co-educational day and boarding school for ages 2 to 18 with flexi, weekly and full boarding options. Our extensive bus routes across East Anglia provide convenient transport for our families.
START YOUR CHILD’S JOURNEY TODAY
Join us for an Open Day or arrange a personal visit to experience us for yourself. Scholarships still available.
PREP SCHOOL
OPEN MORNING
FRIDAY 06 FEBRUARY 2026
MONDAY 04 MAY 2026
SENIOR SCHOOL OPEN MORNING
SATURDAY 07 FEBRUARY 2026
SATURDAY 16 MAY 2026
SIXTH FORM OPEN MORNING
SATURDAY 07 FEBRUARY 2026
SATURDAY 16 MAY 2026
“Supportive, inclusive, ambitious” — ISI Inspection Report, November 2025
To register for an Open Morning, or arrange a private visit, scan the QR Code or visit framlinghamcollege.co.uk/openmornings , email admissions@framlinghamcollege.co.uk or call 01728 727217. Open Mornings run from 10:00 - 13:00.
EXTENSIVE SCHOOL
BUS ROUTES ACROSS EAST ANGLIA
Great goals
Established in 2017, Premier League Primary Stars uses football to inspire academic engagement, wellbeing and positive values
The beautiful game is a powerful force for good in our schools, clubs and homes as it is wildly popular with the primary school age group
Let’s be honest, football doesn’t always get a good press. Over the years, columns have highlighted the tribalism and, from time to time, dreadful behaviour among fans and players. But the 'beautiful game' is, most certainly, a powerful force for good in our schools, clubs and homes through the work of Premier League Primary Stars. This programme has capitalised on a huge positive – football is wildly popular with this age group. That enthusiasm is used to engage boys and girls with sport, with academic subjects (especially all-important English and maths) and with life lessons about resilience, confidence, kindness and fairness. Premier League Primary Stars was first established in 2017 and has been a consistent resource ever since in delivering resources and ideas for primary education. It is accessible to everyone, and with particular focus on delivering age-appropriate, practical and curriculumaligned material. This is used by teachers,
educators in settings such as out-of-school clubs, and by home schoolers (parents are more than welcome on its website).
With football as the hook, subject specialists and heavyweight partners such as the National Literacy Trust have helped develop accessible and engaging resources that support children’s learning. There are great initiatives in areas that don’t instantly seem a natural match, such as poetry, to inspire creativity and help children get in touch with their feelings.
It’s now widely accessed – used in over 20,000 primary schools across England and Wales – and with some 18 million attendances at club-led sessions delivered by 103 professional football club community organisations. More than 70,000 teachers are registered for its free downloadable lesson plans. Premier League Primary Stars estimates it reaches 1.1 million children every year through digital resources.
The data is impressive, so too the fact that its resources are attuned to the issues of our time. For instance, there is a big bank of teaching resources supporting
children’s mental health, confidence and ability to bounce back from setbacks. For instance, this autumn term kicked o with an academic planner to highlight special events, including World Mindfulness Day. Similarly, after the great win in the Women’s World Cup, there was a Resilience Pack featuring stories and insights from Harry Kane and the Lionesses on themes such as learning from mistakes and adopting a can-do approach even when you fear failure.
There has been some especially timely material on allyship – called Active Allies – to help children overcome stereotypes and outdated attitudes and encourage girls to be more confident playing sport alongside boys. And there’s a wealth of material to keep playground play clean through the Play the Right Way theme. With many initiatives, downloadable material includes inspiring short films and assembly plans, as well as suggested classroom activities. There is also specific support for children facing di culties, such as fear around school attendance. This is supported through more than 100 professional football club charities – these span both the National and Premier leagues. Of course, nothing the greatest teacher prepares for a lesson plan could come close to beating a surprise school visit from a
Coming face to face with Theo Walcott is something that ensures lessons are taken to heart
hero of the game. Coming face to face with Theo Walcott and having his motivational support during a lesson is something that ensures lessons are taken to heart. Theo, who helped launch Premier League Primary Stars back in 2017, visited a primary school with his former club Arsenal in February for the launch of resources for Children’s Mental Health Week. There have been other similar club-led visits by great names –including Chloe Kelly, who visited schools to support the launch of allyship resources. Premier League Primary Stars is funded by its charitable arm, Premier League Charitable Fund, which is one of the largest sports charities in the world and works closely with professional football club charities. It’s good to see the Premier League and clubs at every level investing in young people. Even better is that their objective is not only to grow the next generation of players and fans, but also support their academic success, confidence and wellbeing.
plprimarystars.com
COOPERSALE
Epping
Tuesday 3 March 2026
Thursday
SPIRIT
GUIDE
With a new book and hit stage show, Danny Robins believes today's children are every bit as keen on ghostly detective stories as he was
by LIBBY NORMAN
PHOTO: RICH LAKOS
He’s been compared to Hitchcock and Van Helsing and called the UK’s ‘go-to spook guy’. But Danny Robins wears his o cial badge lightly and there’s not a hint of mystic aura about him. He never expected The Battersea Poltergeist and Uncanny to cause such a stir. “It happened in that strange, alien landscape of lockdown. I think it was a point where a lot of people were cooped up in their houses feeling slightly haunted by their houses,” he says. “I sometimes think I was the paranormal Joe Wicks. I was the beneficiary of that era, in that there were a lot of people who wanted to be entertained.”
The ripple spread way wider than he could have conceived. “I couldn’t in a million years have anticipated The Battersea Poltergeist being talked about on Australian breakfast television and fielding calls from Hollywood producers asking about film rights.” Looking back now, Danny wonders if he had stumbled across a collective desire to explore the out-ofbody world. “Those strange, chaotic, uncertain times spawned an interest in the paranormal.”
The Battersea Poltergeist – a podcast first aired in 2021 – retold the tale of the 1956 alleged haunting of 63 Wycli e Road in an utterly riveting way, while Uncanny, beginning later that year, delivered a rich brew of paranormal and haunting true-life tales examined in forensic depth through a believer’s and a sceptic’s lens. Uncanny passed to the other side, with a BBC Two series beginning in 2023 (we’re now two series in) and has also become a hit touring show. Somewhere in there, Danny also found time to write 2:22 A Ghost Story, which was one of the first plays to open on the London stage after lockdown. It picked up three Olivier nominations and won three WhatsOnStage Awards, including Best New Play.
It’s worth noting that Danny’s interest in the paranormal is not recent – among his many writing credits is Young Dracula, the comedy that ran for five seasons on CBBC from 2006. “This is the subject that keeps on giving. You can go anywhere in the world and ask that question, ‘do you think ghosts exist?’ and come up with a really exciting, colourful debate.” This, then, is the backdrop for Do You Believe in Ghosts?, his new book aimed squarely at curious young minds keen to find out more about the supernatural. In designing the book, Danny has drawn on his own childhood passion. He was, he says, that kid in the school library reading everything he could find on a subject that gripped him. He still recalls the Usborne World of the Unknown,
the Collins Gem Ghosts and even a Hamlyn guide. “There was an era of real fascination with this subject that spawned quite a lot of lurid books full of pictures of ghosts and monsters and demon dogs,” he says.
“Combined with the fact I was brought up as an atheist, and I didn’t have belief in my life, I think I was just really interested in the idea of what made people believe.” Or not, for in the introduction to Do You Believe in Ghosts? Danny nails his colours to the mast as ‘a sceptic who really wants to believe’. In similar vein, he invites readers to align themselves with either #TeamBeliever or #TeamSceptic, also voting on each of the accounts they read in the book to see if they’ve been swayed one way or the other.
“IT IS ALL ABOUT US TESTING THE PARAMETERS OF OUR WORLD AND BEING SCARED WITHIN SAFE
BOUNDARIES”
It’s an approach that gives children agency and also encourages them to get thinking behind the stories and listening to di erent theories. “If you are from #TeamSceptic you can look at it from a psychological, environmental, scientific perspective, and if you are #TeamBeliever you are digging into the history of the house, who might have lived there and who might be the ghost,” he says. “All the kids I meet, they are little detectives. They love exploring stu . They love trying to make sense of science and history – this is a subject that allows you to do that.”
Of course, ghost stories give children a thrill, a frisson, but this is as old as storytelling itself. “There’s something important for a kid – which is when you first come across this idea of ghosts – about being scared within very safe boundaries. It’s why we watch Dr Who or enjoy doing something like Go Ape. It’s us testing our world, testing the parameters of our world.”
Do You Believe in Ghosts? tests parameters but sits firmly on the side of spooky, rather than scary, with jokes and asides and plenty of comic illustrations. In fact, illustrator Ellen Walker wrote to him first as an Uncanny fan and plays a key role here as a part of the ghost hunting team. The tales cover familiar spooky ground to many adults. We read about the disturbances at 284 Green Street (aka The Enfield Poltergeist), the thrilling haunting of RAF Lossiemouth, a cellar in York where Roman Legionnaires were spotted by a hapless boiler fitter, and even head back to 19th-century New York State to meet the famous spiritualist Fox sisters. There’s plenty of history in the mix, but also clear and age-appropriate explanations of concepts such as Stone Tape Theory, telekinesis and cognitive bias – also, impressively, an evolutionary psychology explanation for why we humans are pre-programmed to be scared of the dark. “Explaining them in a kid-friendly way opens up this amazing debate they can have,” says Danny. He hopes that these explanations serve a useful purpose in helping children rationalise other fears. “Once you understand that you can start to feel, ‘well maybe some of
the other things I feel scared about I don’t need to feel scared about’. I think there's quite an empowering message behind all of this – that the world isn’t quite as scary a place as it might sometimes seem.”
Adults reading along with their children may expect more questions than they can answer. “I definitely think any sort of fear within a ghost story has in equal measures that dose of optimism. It suddenly opens up the possibility that people that we’ve loved and lost still might be out there,” he says. “That potential optimism is a really powerful thing in terms of processing those moments – whether it’s a pet that you’ve lost or a grandparent.”
One of the things that has struck Danny is that the audience for ghosts spans all ages. “What I’ve noticed a lot on my tour and just generally meeting people who listen to the show or watch the show is that there are loads of kids who are Uncanny fans,” he says. “It feels like a family-safe subject. You can approach it in di erent ways. You
have the adult level where you’re consuming stu that might make you feel a bit scared, or you can have the kids’ stu where you’re loving the fact that it’s a detective hunt and that you’re learning a bit about science and history and having a bit of fun.”
With the book, plus a season of Uncanny stage shows, Danny is looking forward to hearing from many more fans who share his enthusiasm for considering mysteries beyond our rational world. “Detective stories normally stop when you find out whodunnit, but ghost stories just keep on unfolding,” he says. “I really like the idea that we haven’t discovered everything there is to discover about our world. What’s not to love about the idea of hunting for that?”
Do You Believe in Ghosts? by Danny Robins, illustrated by Ellen Walker, is published by Pu n Books (£8.99). The 'Uncanny: Fear of the Dark' stage show is on tour now. For dates and venues, visit uncannylive.com
For someone new to Oakfields Prep, the best way to describe our school is as a vibrant, nurturing community where curiosity and creativity are at the heart of learning. We pride ourselves on combining academic excellence with a strong emphasis on personal growth, wellbeing, and character development. Our classrooms buzz with energy, and our outdoor spaces are alive with exploration and play. Every child is known, valued, and encouraged to discover their unique talents.
At Oakfields, education goes beyond textbooks. We believe in preparing children for life, not just exams. Our approach blends rigorous academics with opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and global awareness. From Kindergarten through Year 6, pupils experience a rich curriculum designed to inspire a love of learning and a sense of responsibility for the world around them.
SPIRIT
Welcome to Oakfields Prep – a place where every child thrives
By MATTHEW BOOTH
HOPES AND AMBITIONS
This year, we are excited to break ground on an ambitious new initiative: the development of our very own ‘farm’ as part of the Planet Oak project. This space will feature a wildflower meadow to attract wildlife and pollinators, alongside areas for growing vegetables and herbs. It’s a hands-on way for pupils to learn about sustainability, ecology, and healthy living – while fostering a deep connection with nature.
WHAT’S NEW AT OAKFIELDS?
Listening to feedback from our student leadership team and school council, we are planning to create a dedicated Wellbeing Hub. This space will provide children with a calm, supportive environment they can access throughout the day. Mental health matters as much as academic success. We are also rethinking break times. Could we o er a free-flow option between indoor and outdoor spaces? Could play be more purposeful and inclusive? These are exciting questions we’re exploring.
DATES TO LOOK FORWARD TO
February brings our inaugural Entrepreneurship Day in partnership with 8Billionideas, sparking creativity and business thinking among pupils. Later in the year, the sight of the marquee on the field signals celebrations like Prize Giving and Afternoon Tea – a highlight for families and sta alike. And in May, our Year 6 pupils will embark on their second week-long trip to Spain, a cultural and linguistic adventure that crowns years of Spanish learning.
Oakfields Prep is more than a school: it’s a community where children flourish academically, socially, and emotionally. We can’t wait to see what this year brings!
Matthew Booth is the Headteacher of Oakfields Prep. Please contact the Admissions Team on 01708 256721 or admissions@oakfieldsschool.co.uk to book a visit or to find out more about joining Oakfields Prep School. See more at oakfieldspreparatoryschool.co.uk
MODERN
LIFE
Louise North, Principal of Framlingham College in Su olk, talks about the importance of schools staying in step with family needs
Education has always been about more than just academics – it is about creating an environment where young people can thrive both in and beyond the classroom. As family dynamics shift and work-life balance becomes increasingly complex, schools must adapt, o ering flexibility, accessibility, and exceptional pastoral care.
The statistics tell a clear story. According to the O ce for National Statistics (ONS), the average person in the UK now works six hours more a week than they did five years ago, rising from 30.4 hours in June 2020 to 36.6 hours in November 2024. Meanwhile, 75.6% of mothers with dependent children now hold professional careers. Combine this with the rising average age of first-time parents – 30.5 years for mothers and 33.5 for fathers (World Population Review, 2024) – and it is evident that families today are balancing demanding careers with the desire to provide the best possible education for their children.
For many parents, the traditional school model, where children either attend as day pupils or commit to full-time boarding, no longer fits their schedules or their children’s needs. More than ever, families require flexibility in both day and boarding arrangements – and transport – so that they can ensure that education works around family life.
Recognising this shift, Framlingham College o ers a broad range of options, including day provision, flexi-boarding, weekly boarding and full boarding. We also o er the option to adjust that plan if it becomes necessary. This means a tailored and flexible schedule, whether we are working with day pupils, those who board one night a week for late co-curricular activities, or boarders who stay for five nights to ease a longer commute.
When so many parents are managing fulltime careers, schools must help to remove the stress of the school run. This is something that is front of mind for us. Our support, and the comprehensive transport network
locally, ensures that day pupils are able to travel between home and school safely and conveniently. Daily routes serve Aldeburgh, Bury St Edmunds, Diss, Harleston, Ipswich and Lowestoft, with express bus services operating on longer routes to Cambridge, Norwich, and Colchester. Airport and train transfers support our international and long-distance families.
While flexibility in boarding and transport is key, pupil wellbeing remains at the heart of a great education. Our award-winning pastoral care system places wellbeing at the centre of its approach. School life is about more than grades; it is about creating an environment where every child feels supported, valued for who they are and can develop confidence, independence and a lifelong love of learning. Schools that recognise this – and adapt to provide the best support for children and modern family life – are shaping the future of education.
framlinghamcollege.co.uk
Today’s fast-evolving world of employment and further education requires an equally innovative approach in schools. At Queen Ethelburga’s, we are at the forefront of providing a highly personalised and dynamic o ering that prioritises curriculum choice and wellbeing. We do this through our model of three schools on one campus. Our prep and middle schools lead to an array of flexible pathways through our senior school.
From September 2025 QE began the process of combining what were previously known as QE Faculty and QE College into one exceptional Year 10 to 13 senior school o ering an unprecedented range of academic, vocational, sport, performance, creative and co-curricular opportunities – and with a new name, Queen Ethelburga’s College. Our approach is to think of what is best for your child as they progress through sixth form.
Sixth form
SUCCESS
Lauren Blakeley, Head of Queen Ethelburga’s College, on key areas to consider when thinking about options for the final school years
Education doesn’t need to be a one size fits all. Depending on the strengths and interests of your child, you should consider whether a traditional academic route or a modern BTEC or mixed route would suit them best. At QE, we provide a variety of flexible pathways. Here, students can take the A-level route and choose traditional academic subjects. Alternatively, there is the opportunity to combine traditional and modern A-level subjects alongside BTECs. At QE, we are also able to facilitate extra time within the curriculum for performance sports and performing arts. Whatever direction they are considering, a strong careers department is vital for all students as they embark on their sixth form years. At QE, we provide each student with as much support as needed across areas such as career and subject choices, applications, interviews, work experience, entrance exams and auditions. Our advice considers the subject combinations and extra-curriculars that will be most useful in widening knowledge and boosting applications.
We know universities and companies are increasingly looking for a wide range of interests beyond academic grades. At QE, we are incredibly proud of the vast array of opportunities available. We have over 100 clubs and activities on site, ranging from CCF to Student Motorsport and Esports teams. We o er regular trips throughout the UK and overseas and have a Stretch and Challenge programme to specifically encourage students to go further via, for instance, national competitions and outside lecture attendance. The sixth form you choose is where your child will be for not just the next two years of their life, but the two most important years of their academic life. At QE, we know that the right sixth form environment has such a positive impact on outcomes, determining future destinations and ambitions. This makes it critical to find the experience that suits your child – ensuring their happiness and making sure they will thrive.
qe.org
LAUREN BLAKELEY
Saint Nicholas School
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EDUCATION NEWS
The latest from schools across the county
Many happy returns
Runwell Community Primary School, which opened in Wickford in 1965, recently celebrated its 60th anniversary.
To mark the occasion, the school welcomed alumni to share their experiences with its current pupils.
The former pupils, who attended the school between 1965 and the early 2000s, enjoyed a tour of the current facilities from pupil prefects, where they discussed how the school had changed over the years, including the expansion of classrooms, the introduction of school pets and the addition of an on-site nursery: Saplings. Following the tour, all pupils at the school had the opportunity to have lunch with the guests, where they asked questions about their favourite lessons, teachers and memories.
Rachel Anthony, Headteacher of Runwell Community Primary School, says: “It was an absolute joy to see all the children engage with our guests’ stories so attentively. There have been many exciting changes since our former pupils were with us and it was a wonderful opportunity for them to explore the school and how lifestyles and cultures have evolved over more than half a century.” runwellprimary.co.uk
Bubbling away
To mark Chemistry Week, over 800 students at New Hall School in Chelmsford created a striking 32m2 molecular mural, with students from Nursery to Sixth Form each contributing an individual molecule tile. The celebrations culminated in a live art installation produced by Year 12 students at the front of the school. Teachers from the Senior Divisions and A-level Chemistry students visited the Nursery, where 30 children enjoyed experimenting with colourchanging solutions and designing their own chromatography badges. Katherine Jeffrey, Principal, comments: “At New Hall, our students learn to approach complexity with curiosity, confidence, and creativity, through problemsolving, applying knowledge to real-world situations, and developing strong research skills.” newhallschool.co.uk
Aiming sky high
Pupils at Dame Bradbury’s Junior School, a co-educational independent primary school in Saffron Walden, have raised more than £400 for Essex and Herts Air Ambulance (EHAA) following the first in a series of planned fundraising events. The charity is Dame Bradbury’s charity of the year for 2025-2026, building on more than £1,300 raised in the 2025 summer term. Throughout the academic year, the school community will raise money for the charity to help it continue to provide life-saving helicopter emergency medical services in Essex and Hertfordshire. To kick-start this year’s fundraising activity, the Malim House Charity Day saw pupils in Years 1 to 6 wear the colours of the
charity – red and yellow – and enjoy a series of fun and educational activities in return for a voluntary donation. Activities included learning cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), exploring a rapid response vehicle, games and a helicopter-themed educational activity. damebradburys.stephenperse.com/ damebradburys
ating back to the 15th-century, this property has undergone extensive renovation and restoration projects over the years, whilst retaining its original charm. The home features four cosy bedrooms, a welcoming reception hall, open kitchen/breakfast room and much more. It is set within 3.5 acres of equestrian facilities with an annexe and a private driveway.
An impressive four bedroom detached house situated in a quiet cul de sac and offering spacious family accommodation throughout. Features include two receptions, contemporary kitchen plus utility room, master suite with dressing area and shower room. The property is ideally located for both state and independent schools including Bancrofts School and the green spaces of Epping Forest close by.
A wonderfully and attractive four bedroom link detached property located in the heart of Buckhurst Hill. The present owners have thoughtfully transformed and extended the property over time and now offers spacious and comfortable accommodation with generous reception rooms, bathrooms, study, utility room plus garage. A lift facility has been installed to allow easy access straight to the main bedroom, perfect for anyone needing that extra help without comprising on independence.
Country LIFE
James Hunt, founder of Durden & Hunt, on how the business is meeting a particular buyer demand
February is often one of the most insightful months in the property calendar, not because of dramatic shifts in pricing, but because it brings clarity. What we are seeing is a market that is gently refining itself, aligning serious buyers with well presented homes and thoughtful pricing strategies and rewarding sellers who approach the process with intent and preparation. Activity remains strong where expectations, presentation and marketing are aligned, and buyers are engaging decisively when value and quality are clear. Mortgage rates may not have returned to historic lows, but their recent stability has brought confidence and structure back into decision making, which is exactly what markets need to function well. February is often the point where sellers who engage early benefit from positioning ahead of the spring uplift. The current market places greater emphasis
on experience, judgement and detail. That philosophy is also why this moment feels particularly well suited to the launch of our new Country and Village Homes division. We are seeing continued demand for lifestyle led property, country estates and village homes, with unique features, land and settings that o er space, privacy and long term appeal. Country and Village Homes has been created to serve that market properly, with a more tailored approach to marketing, discretion and buyer matching. It reflects the appetite for quality of life aligning with quality of property and it allows us to represent these homes with the depth, care and positioning they deserve. As we move toward spring, the market will undoubtedly become busier, but February is quietly setting the tone for the months ahead. For those who understand that this is a time for alignment it o ers a strong and confident platform from which to move forward.
On the market
Stunning property in Alresford
Offers Over £1,000,000
Durden & Hunt welcome to the market this seven bedroom home featuring an open plan kitchen diner with adjoining utility, multiple reception rooms, four bathrooms and downstairs WC. Externally the property benefits from rolling countryside views, an indoor swimming pool with changing room, shower and WC, a triple garage and off road parking.
• Individual & bespoke build • Prestigious lower Wivenhoe location in close proximity to the River Colne & bustling Quayside • Air conditioning
• Mainline railway station within easy walking distance • Three spacious bedrooms & three bathrooms • Ample secure off road parking
Unexpectedly re-available is this truly stunning individually designed home built to incredible specifications, nestling behind a beautiful and unassuming facade with electric Cedar gates which lead to the entrance and further secure parking. Architecturally brilliant, this contemporary home has been planned to perfection, offering versatile accommodation to make the most of the prime position it resides in. Stunning design features include glass panels, skylights, open plan living/dining/kitchen with Bi-Fold doors to the rear garden, three bedrooms; the master of which is enhanced by high ceilings and french doors to its own central courtyard, two En-Suites, a family bathroom, underfloor heating and air conditioning powered by an Air Source Heat Pump. This stunning contemporary home is within a short stroll of Wivenhoe’s famous Quayside which offers an excellent range of bespoke shopping and leisure activites, and for the commuter, the mainline train station offers fast links to London Liverpool Street in just over the hour. this one off masterpiece must be viewed.
Growth Industry
Fenn Wright extends commercial property presence with new o ce in Basildon
Fenn Wright is pleased to announce the opening of a new o ce in Basildon, Essex. As part of the business’s ongoing expansion, the o ce at Phoenix Place will enable the Commercial division to continue supporting existing Fenn Wright clients in the area, while also serving as a base for establishing new relationships. The prime location also strengthens the agency’s presence in this key part of South Essex and the South East.
John Logan MRICS, Partner at Fenn Wright, commented: “We are delighted to become part of the thriving business community in Basildon and look forward to assisting more local companies with their property requirements. This new o ce gives us the ability to respond to the needs of existing clients in and around Basildon, whilst allowing us to build relationships with
new businesses in the surrounding areas such as Southend, the Thames Gateway and East London. Our Commercial division works closely with a broad range of clients, o ering expert advice on sales, lettings, acquisitions, landlord and tenant matters and property management services.”
Opening this month, Basildon marks the 12th o ce for Fenn Wright and is a strategic move following the firm’s long-standing and continued success in the commercial property sector in the major towns and cities of Chelmsford, Colchester and Ipswich.
Donald Barber MRICS, Partner, added: “Our team of Building Surveyors and RICS Registered Valuers undertake work throughout East Anglia and London, so Basildon is a natural step for us to strengthen our delivery of building surveying, project management and valuation services throughout the southeast.”
The o ce will be sta ed by an experienced team led by John Logan MRICS, who joined Fenn Wright in 2016 and has successfully managed the commercial agency team in Chelmsford in recent years. John will be joined by Donald Barber MRICS, John Birchall MRICS and Louisa Howard Assoc RICS. James Wright, Associate Partner, also joins the team and for consecutive years has been awarded ‘Most Active Dealmaker in Essex’. In recent years, the business has been recognised with several prestigious industry awards from Estates Gazette and Co-Star. Fenn Wright was named ‘Most Active Disposal Agent in the East of England’ in 2025 and received the ‘Regional Investment Agency Award’; the agency has also achieved two further awards for the disposal and acquisition of o ce space in Essex.
fennwright.co.uk
why everyone is talking about…
CAMPIONI Soccer Academy
The business with Essex links has announced quite the summer adventure
Back by popular demand, Kuramathi Maldives – available exclusively through Kuoni in the UK – has announced the return of Campioni Soccer Academy this summer, a two-week celebration of sport, sunshine, and island spirit. Set against the turquoise backdrop of the Indian Ocean, Campioni transforms Kuramathi’s pristine football pitch into a world-class training ground for aspiring young players aged 4 to 16 years. Welcoming one of England’s best known and most loved football icons, Stuart Pearce MBE (27 July-1 August), and Manchester United’s treble-winning defender Wes Brown (3-8 August), each joined by UEFA ‘A’ licensed coach Adrian Whitbread, this year Campioni promises two unforgettable weeks of daily training sessions in paradise.
The experience begins in true island style with a beachfront welcome reception where families meet the legends, collect their bespoke training kits, and toast to the week ahead. From Monday to Saturday, daily interactive and engaging training sessions under the expert guidance of the pros will see children not only practice fundamental skills, but also learn the importance of teamwork, strategy, and sportsmanship. With consistent personal advice throughout the sessions, this is a chance for boys and girls of all abilities to learn from the best in the game while creating unforgettable memories.
Parents can unwind across the resort knowing their children are safe, active, and inspired – or lace up their own boots for the Parents’ Game midweek, a crowd favourite that turns the pitch into a playground for all ages. It’s yet another unmissable Campioni extravaganza, a business Absolutely has featured before via our former columnist
– and Essex local – Hayley Smith, who acts as the company’s director.
“Last year’s Campioni Soccer Academy at Kuramathi was fantastic, and I can’t wait to return in the summer to meet a new group of families,” says Stuart Pearce. “The work we get to do with Campioni is always inspiring, in every training session I see potential. Campioni isn’t just about learning new football skills; it’s about inspiring young minds to dream big and work hard.”
Renowned Maldivian resort Kuramathi is a family’s private paradise. Known for its snaking kilometre of white sandbank and tropical jungle, which trails the length of the 1.8km island, Kuramathi is truly an island of choice for the whole family.
kuramathi.com / campioni.co.uk
Book your place at our Open Morning Friday 27th March
