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Education Guide Autumn 2025

Round & About

August 27, 2025August 27, 2025

Round & About

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Independent schools, reinvented for today

September brings a new school year and many of our best local schools are here to help your child thrive, including some unusual subjects to help shape modern minds

When you think of independent schools, what does that conjure up? You might picture the old-school: Latin verbs, echoing corridors, lacrosse sticks… But in 2025, as education continues to adapt to a changing world, many top schools are quietly reinventing the curriculum with a dose of modern relevance.

Today’s independent schools aren’t just nurturing future barristers and biochemists; they’re developing coders, conservationists, climbers, and culinary critics. So if you’re wondering what’s bubbling beneath the traditional school crest, here’s a look at some of the more unexpected (and exciting) offerings.

Game on

At Box Hill School near Dorking, a student-led Esports and Game Design club is taking off. “At first, it was just casual gaming after hours,” says one teacher. “Now, students are designing full game levels and competing in national Esports tournaments.” Far from being a distraction, gaming is proving to be a serious 21st-century skill, combining coding, design, media literacy and teamwork. Parents may take some convincing, but the students are all in.

Big questions, little voices

Godstowe School in High Wycombe is getting philosophical, with even its youngest pupils. The school has introduced Philosophy for Children (P4C), a discussion-based approach that uses books and real-life scenarios to explore concepts like fairness, time, and morality. “You’d be amazed at what a nine-year-old will say when asked, “Can animals have rights?” or “What is identity?’” says one teacher. “It’s like a mini TED Talk every Tuesday.”

Forest finds

At St Edward’s School (AKA “Teddies”) in Oxford, the Japanese practice of “shinrin-yoku” (forest bathing) has been introduced as part of the school’s wellbeing programme. Weekly walks in the woods, guided reflection, and screen-free time offer students a much-needed reset during stressful study periods.

Caring & sharing

The new kitchen garden farm at Frensham Heights near Farnham is home to four pygmy goats (Issy, Belle, Edith and Bea), named after their founders and a flock of different rare breed chickens. The farm sits between the junior school and the senior school hub (pastoral centre) allowing all ages, and the staff to benefit from the wellbeing effect.

Sport and outdoor education remain an important part of the Frensham offer. As well as a flashy new weights room, the high ropes in their woodland have had an upgrade with new platforms and a zipwire already added and more high platforms to follow. The extensive extracurricular programme offers archery, forest bathing, foraging, climbing, scuba, ultimate frisbee, high ropes and gardening. Climbing, wakeboarding, dry slope skiing and high ropes are also offered as games afternoon.

Material world

At Marlborough College in Wiltshire, traditional textiles have gone high-tech. The Design & Technology department is exploring smart fabrics, combining sewing and embroidery with conductive thread and microelectronics.

Robot ready

At Radley College near Abingdon, students are engineering their future in the school’s thriving Robotics and AI programme. Working with industry-grade kits and 3D printers, pupils design and build their own robots for regional and national competitions. From line-followers to maze-solvers, the challenges build coding confidence and practical problem-solving skills.

Learning buzz

At St George’s School in Ascot, biology has taken a buzzy turn. Pupils trade lab coats for beekeeping suits in a practical ecology and conservation project that’s creating a buzz. They manage their own hives, monitor bee health, and harvest and sell honey, tying the project into their business studies. The school also works with conservationists to track wild bee populations on local National Trust land.

Media magic

At Bedales School near Petersfield, students are leading their own podcast network. Discussions range from school lunches to teenage politics, all recorded, produced and hosted by the pupils. A termly radio show is also broadcast from the studio to the wider community, giving students valuable experience in script writing, sound editing, journalism and presenting.

Snow & serve

At The Oratory School between Wallingford and Reading, traditional team sports have been joined by fast-growing favourites such as Padel tennis, a fun, sociable hybrid of squash and tennis that’s sweeping across Europe. This complements the school’s existing quirky sport offerings such as Real Tennis – it is one of only four schools in the country to own a court. All pupils are coached in racquets by the Ladies reigning World Champion Claire Fahey.

Pupils also have the opportunity to take part in the school’s annual Alpine ski trip, with dedicated coaching for beginners through to advanced racers. Both activities promote balance, focus, and teamwork – with just the right mix of adrenaline and adventure.

These all reflect a deeper shift in education focused on curiosity, creativity & collaboration.

View previous Education Guides.

Free your child from smartphones’ grips!

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August 26, 2025August 25, 2025

Round & About

“We’re not anti-tech, we’re pro childhood,” says Gemma Taylor who is championing Smartphone Free Childhood

“I wasn’t comfortable with the idea of giving my 11-year-old a smartphone when she started secondary school. And yet I was about to sleep walk into giving her one as everyone around us, all her friends, were being given them.”

A sentiment that will strike a chord with many parents as the new term starts, especially for those starting secondary education.

Gemma Taylor was introduced to Smartphone Free Childhood by a friend and said it “gave me the confidence to stick to my guns in not getting her a smartphone and start to more actively encourage other parents to do the same”.

As Gemma says, it’s not easy to be that parent to go against the grain. SFC has established Parent Pact which encourages parents to unite and make local collective action. Across their regions, they are speaking with school leaders, parents, hosting information evenings at schools or in public spaces and speaking with MPs and councillors to highlight this issue and create conversations around the problem. Via the Parent Pact, parents can be united in delaying giving children smartphones until the age of 14 and social media until 16.

Almost 140,000 pacts have been signed nationally with Surrey leading the regions and high levels of take up in Hampshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire too.

“Parents are in an impossible position – either they give their child a smartphone with all the known harms, or they isolate them from their peers at a crucial time in their development,” she adds. “This is not about good or bad parenting. Every parent in every home across the country is grappling with this question of when to get their child a smartphone and how to protect them once they do. There is a vacuum of information or guidance from the government or the NHS about what age is the right age to get a smartphone, or how young is too young. Currently all the responsibility to protect children lies on the shoulders of parents.”

Find out more & sign up at smartphone freechildhood.org/parent-pact

So what are the issues with Smartphones?

Addictive by design: Smartphones are experience-blockers, preventing kids from engaging in the real world and having the childhood experiences that are vital for their healthy development. Kids are commonly spending 6, 7, 8, 9 hours a day on their devices, often more according to Ofcom, which is the same as a part-time job!

Mental health impacts: Research shows that the younger kids get their first smartphone, the worse their mental health is today.

Harmful content: Having unrestricted access to the internet in your pocket creates a gateway to extreme content and viewpoints that we wouldn’t expose our children to in real life.

Not to mention cyberbullying, sleep deprivation, attention problems, family arguments over screen time, etc…

Gemma Taylor is a Regional Leader for Smartphone Free Childhood, the parent-led grassroots movement aiming to change the norms around smartphone ownership and access to social media

Amersham Concert Club’s clarinet highlight

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August 26, 2025August 25, 2025

Round & About

Emma Johnson will perform with Gregg Drott at 7.30pm on Saturday, 27th September, at Amersham Free Church, HP6 6AJ, thanks to Amersham Concert Club

Dreading the darker evenings? Amersham Concert Club’s 59th season gets off to a tremendous start when Emma Johnson and Gregg Drott come to Amersham to perform their Clarinet Celebration on 27th September.

“A classical music superstar” (Clarinet & Saxophone Magazine) and “Britain’s favourite clarinettist”, (The Times) are two descriptions of Emma who is one of the few clarinet players to have made a career as a soloist and is an internationally acclaimed musician, composer and lecturer. Since winning BBC Young Musician of the Year aged 17 she has gone on to become one of the UK’s biggest selling classical artists and is known for her diverse range of repertoire. She was awarded an MBE by the Queen in 1996.

In this programme she’ll explore all the major styles of clarinet music from Variations based on Mozart’s Clarinet Quintet to the romantic (Schumann and Clarke), and Poulenc’s Sonata for clarinet & piano. In the second half she’ll explore the jazz influence on the clarinet with works by Benny Goodman, John Dankworth and Duke Ellington. Emma introduces pieces in a relaxed, informative way.

Tickets are £25pp at amersham concerts.org.uk or please call 01494 765420. The club is keen to encourage young people to hear live music performed by outstanding musicians, so tickets for under-21s are free at all of their concerts.

Amanda Boulding’s new book, Too Much!

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August 26, 2025August 25, 2025

Round & About

Cookham author Amanda Boulding tells us about her newest children’s book TOO MUCH! & what she loves about local life

Children’s author and illustrator Amanda Boulding is no stranger to the power of storytelling. Her gentle, joyful picture books are designed to help children navigate big feelings and nurture a connection with the natural world, which are two themes close to her heart. But Amanda’s work is also deeply rooted in her love of community and belief in the importance of education that meets children where they are.

After a successful 13-year career with the BBC, Amanda turned her creative talents toward picture books, inspired by her own two children. “I believe stories can be powerful tools for understanding emotions and for fostering compassion,” she explains. “They give children – and grown-ups – a gentle way to connect with themselves and the world.”

Between the ages of six and 10, Amanda lived in Hong Kong, where her dad managed PR for the Navy. “This meant incredible holidays to places like the Philippines, Maldives, and Thailand, which really sparked my curiosity about the world,” she says. “When we returned to the UK, we settled in Little Chalfont, near where I was born. I went to school there, then studied engineering at Birmingham University.” Amanda has lived in Cookham for more than 16 years and says that the local schools have played a huge role in her family’s life. “Both of my children thrived at Cookham Nursery, Cookham Rise, and Holy Trinity Primary,” she says. “I’ve been especially moved by how supportive teachers have been since my daughter’s recent dyslexia diagnosis. Mrs Lucas at Holy Trinity deserves a big thank you for helping her stay confident and engaged with learning, even when things felt tough.”

Amanda’s latest, TOO MUCH! is about helping children aged between four and seven recognise sensory overload and discover calm strategies. “I wanted to create something that felt reassuring and gentle, like a hug in book form.”

Education continues to play a role in Amanda’s day-to-day life. Whether she’s leading a workshop during World Book Week (she ran 26 sessions earlier this year) or sharing ideas with fellow writers at Cookham Library’s writing group or digging in with WildCookham, Amanda is a believer in lifelong learning, creativity, and community.

When she’s not writing or illustrating (or keeping her two mischievous cats off her keyboard), Amanda loves walking the Thames Path, mooching around Marlow’s indie shops and hosting coffee-fuelled meetups at Daisy Love in Cookham. She’s a regular at The Bounty pub – “only reachable on foot, which makes it even more charming” – and is grateful to The Marlow Bookshop whose team have been incredibly supportive, stocking her work.

Her magic wish for the world? “That every child grows up surrounded by love, nature, and stories,” she says, “and that we all try to tread just a little more gently on the planet.”

Sing Your Pain Away Windsor highlight

Round & About

August 26, 2025August 25, 2025

Round & About

The Sing Your Pain Away singing groups from Bucks & Oxfordshire celebrated World Music Day by singing at Windsor Castle. Founder Jane Gatfield tells us more…

By special permission of the castle, the group joined forces with sister choirs from Amersham, Chesham & Henley to sing eight of their favourite songs in the stunning Moat Garden in glorious sunshine. Songs included Thank You for the Music, Return to Sender, Under the Boardwalk and Top of the World.

Jane Gatfield, who founded Sing Your Pain Away 10 years ago, lives with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and set out to create a choir that was inclusive, accessible and welcoming. She says “Our groups are all about inclusive singing for wellbeing, health and fun. It doesn’t matter if you can sing well or not, it’s about the joy of making music together.”

“We’re so grateful to the team at Windsor Castle and the Royal Collection Trust, who were amazing and made us so welcome. Some of our members would find it difficult to visit Windsor Castle in the normal course of events. The castle team were incredibly accommodating, welcoming and made the experience inclusive.”

Bourne End member Dorothy Boughtflower said: “What a wonderful day. I’m still in a dream and I don’t want to wake up! It was spectacular and I’ll carry the memories forever.”

The Bourne End group meet at 6pm on Thursdays at the community centre and the Marlow group meet at 6pm on Mondays at Marlow Methodist Church. Email jane@singyourpainaway.co.uk

People power with Thame Players

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August 26, 2025August 25, 2025

Round & About

Helen Johns tells us about Thame Players’ next production, People by Alan Bennett, at the Players theatre, 9th-13th September

People spoil things: there are so many of them and the last thing one wants is to have them traipsing through one’s house. But with the park a jungle and a bath on the billiard table, what is one to do? Could an attic sale be a solution?

Thame Players’ next production is People by Alan Bennett, which opens on Tuesday, 9th September. After centuries, a traditional stately pile lies in a state of disrepair, desperately requiring financing to restore and maintain the once grand residence. Lady Dorothy, an ageing aristocrat and ex-model, lives in this crumbling mansion with her companion, Iris, and shrinks from the idea of it being opened to the public gaze. She’s nostalgic for a world in which everything, including herself, is allowed to decay naturally. She’s even tempted by an offer from a valuer, representing a shadowy consortium, to transport the house to Dorset or Wiltshire.

Meanwhile, Dorothy’s gruff sister, June, is close to doing a deal with the National Trust, which will make the house a piece of English history, filling it with racily interactive features.

But a third possibility arises when a film company arrives to use the residence as a location for a porn movie. Lady Dorothy would rather sell off the contents or even allow explicit films to be made at the house, in order to save it from the grips of the National Trust. June wholeheartedly disagrees. This central conflict focuses on the philosophical and ethical dilemmas of restoration, in an age of rampant public consumption, with hilarious and touching results. 

People was premiered at the National Theatre in 2012. It features Bennett’s characteristic humour and pathos, and deals with themes explored in his other works. These include the challenges of old age – a sense of being abandoned by society. There’s also a strong sense of challenge to “the establishment”, a questioning of whose establishment it actually is. And, as usual, there’s a narrative of class: institutions such as the National Trust and the Church of England are complicit in maintaining a class structure serving no-one, not even the people who apparently benefit.

Steve Lambell, who directs People for Thame Players, says: “This is a fascinating play, which critics have described as “provocative fun”. Bennett takes a swipe at the National Trust and has stated that the play was inspired by his sense of unease while visiting a National Trust house. The Telegraph critic said, “Bennett has lost little of his mischievous wit and sense of the ridiculous, and the result is entertaining, funny and touching”. For an entertaining evening, book your seats now!’

This amateur production of People is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. To book & find out more please visit thameplayers.co.uk

Thursday Murder Club at RHS Wisley

Round & About

August 18, 2025August 20, 2025

Round & About

There’s murder among the marigolds as Netflix teams up with the RHS to launch the Thursday Murder Club in Bloom

The Thursday Murder Club takeover is set to delight fans in RHS gardens across the nation from August 22^nd to 28^th.

Look out for giant floral billboards, themed scavenger hunts and a tearoom takeover at RHS Garden Wisley to mark the arrival of the Netflix Originals film adaptation of Richard Osman’s much-loved book series.

Based on Osman’s international bestselling novel, and directed by Chris Columbus, the film stars Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley, and Celia Imrie as the irrepressible retirees who solve cold case murders for fun before a thrilling turn of events leaves them with a real whodunit on their hands.

For a whole week and across five locations – RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey, RHS Garden Bridgewater in Manchester, RHS Garden Harlow Carr in North Yorkshire, RHS Garden Hyde Hall in Essex and RHS Garden Rosemoor in Devon – fans of the much-loved books will be able to immerse themselves in a heady combination of homicide and horticulture, all in the name of cosy crime fun.

RHS visitors can dive into the beloved The Thursday Murder Club phenomenon with an immersive experience across all five gardens. They’ll enjoy exclusive activities, clues, and prizes; from interacting with film billboards meticulously brought to life in flowers, to channel their inner sleuths in scavenger hunts for themed prizes.

For those with a taste for something truly killer, visitors to RHS Wisley can indulge in a murderously good afternoon tea at Joyce’s Tearoom. Named in honour of the character played by Celia Imrie in the film, the menu is packed with delightful nods to the gang, from Elizabeth’s Earl Grey (with a twist) to Ibrahim’s Calming Chamomile. And fans certainly won’t want to miss Joyce’s famous Lemon Drizzle or Ron’s must-try Sausage Rolls – some might say they’re to die for.

• The Thursday Murder Club trail is included in the RHS Garden entry. Tickets for the gardens can be purchased online or on-site, see www.rhs.org.uk/gardens for details.

• The Thursday Murder Club film will be in select cinemas August 22nd and on Netflix August 28th.

Helios: Luke Jerram’s Sculpture at Basildon

Round & About

August 11, 2025August 11, 2025

Round & About

National Trust Images / Bec Hughes

The National Trust presents Helios, a striking 7-metre outdoor sculpture by renowned artist Luke Jerram—combining sound and visuals inspired by the sun—on display at Basildon Park near Reading from 15–18 and 22–25 August 2025

This summer, the National Trust invites visitors to experience Helios, a dazzling 7-metre solar sculpture by artist Luke Jerram, on display at Basildon Park near Reading from 15–18 and 22–25 August 2025.

Set in the Pleasure Grounds with the Palladian mansion as a backdrop, Helios blends art and science through light, imagery, and a surround-soundscape featuring real NASA recordings of the sun. Visitors can walk beneath the glowing sphere, relax on beanbags, and enjoy the installation from afternoon into evening as it radiates against the darkening skies.

To celebrate, Basildon Park will host a vibrant programme of activities including:

Evening BBQs and deckchairs on the lawn
A late-opening tearoom with a special Helios-themed menu
Live music, dance, Tai Chi, and children’s games
Astronomy talks and solar telescope viewing
Art stations, sensory exhibitions, and film-themed displays

At a scale of 1:200 million, the sculpture’s surface reveals sunspots, flares, and filaments in striking detail, offering a safe, awe-inspiring view of our star. Helios continues Jerram’s legacy of large-scale astronomical artworks, following Museum of the Moon, Gaia, and Mars.

National Trust Director John Orna-Ornstein called the collaboration “a bold way to connect people with nature and culture,” while Basildon Park’s General Manager Sebastian Conway added: “We want everyone to feel welcome and inspired by this extraordinary artwork.”

Entry to Helios is included with standard admission (free for National Trust members).

National Trust – Basildon Park

Astrology & Tarot for August

Round & About

August 7, 2025August 14, 2025

Round & About

What’s in store for you this month? Melanie Harding, founder of Soul Healing Guidance, offers her new monthly guides for all signs…

Aries (21 March – 20 April)

Mars moves into Libra on the 6th, stirring the pot in close relationships. You’ll need a softer approach this time, think charm over charge. The Full Moon on the 9th uncovers something revealing about a friend. Sit with it, then wait for Mercury to go direct on the 11th before making any big decisions. Speak your truth mid-month, it’ll land better then. Work ramps up when the Sun shifts focus on the 22nd, and the New Moon on the 23rd is your green light to aim higher. Venus brings romantic sparks from the 25th.

Tarot: Ten of Wands
You may be carrying more than your fair share this month. Be mindful of burnout and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Delegating brings relief.

Taurus (21 April – 20 May)

It’s a wobbly start as Mercury stirs up old family patterns, and the 1st might be extra sensitive. Best to tread gently. Mars turns your focus to work from the 6th – but don’t lose sight of home life. The Full Moon on the 9th puts a spotlight on your efforts – soak it in. From the 11th, words land better, and hearts soften. Romance takes a turn when the Sun lights up your love life from the 22nd, while the New Moon on the 23rd is a green light for dating or creative projects. Venus brings warmth to home and hearth on the 25th. Host something lovely on the 26th.

Tarot: Ace of Swords
This is your month for a clear breakthrough. Expect insight, honest words and the chance to cut through confusion.

Gemini (21 May – 20 June)

You’re not quite your breezy self as August begins as Mercury retrograde slows you down. Mars fires up your creativity on the 6th, so put your energy into something hands-on. The Full Moon on the 9th brings a burst of fun, even if plans start rocky. From the 11th, it’s smooth sailing. Home life calls when the Sun enters Virgo on the 22nd. The 23rd is ideal for a move, a home revamp, or finally buying that thing you’ve had your eye on. Venus in Leo from the 25th adds a sparkle to your words and your charm.

Tarot: Page of Swords
Curiosity is your superpower now. Ask questions, listen well, and take time to study the finer details before leaping.

Cancer (21 June – 22 July)

Money feels slippery early in the month. Mercury’s up to tricks, and you’ll need to be mindful of your spending. The Full Moon on the 9th is the moment to clear debts and rethink your habits. From the 11th, the fog lifts. The Sun in Virgo from the 22nd brings clarity and a steady head. The 23rd is perfect for a short break, even a day trip will do wonders. Venus steps into your money zone on the 25th, bringing a chance to attract abundance.

Tarot: Nine of Swords
Worries may keep you up at night, but many are fears rather than facts. Reach out for support and speak your truth.

Leo (23 July – 22 August)

Your solar season is in full swing Leo, and you’re glowing. But Mercury retrograde means words can be tricky, so think before you roar. Mars keeps you busy with errands and quick trips from the 6th. Something changes in your relationships under the Full Moon on the 9th so give it time. From the 11th, communication clears. Finances take a turn for the better after the 22nd. The New Moon on the 23rd could bring a new income stream. Venus enters your sign on the 25th – time to indulge and be seen.

Tarot: Two of Pentacles
Balance is the theme. Juggle with care, and don’t forget to make time for yourself in the mix.

Virgo (23 September – 22 October)

August asks for softness, Virgo. Mercury’s retrograde at the start, and your energy is a little off. Mars may tempt you to hustle for cash, but burnout isn’t the goal. The Full Moon on the 9th is your best day to unplug. When Mercury goes direct on the 11th, your mind sharpens. With the Sun in your sign from the 22nd, you’ll feel stronger and more yourself. The 23rd is your moment to reveal a new look, project, or intention. Book a little pamper time around the 25th.

Tarot: Death
A cycle is ending, clearing space for renewal. What are you ready to release?

Libra (23 September – 22 October)

It’s a sociable month, and with Mars entering your sign on the 6th, you’re in your element. Just hold off on big decisions until Mercury turns direct on the 11th. The Full Moon on the 9th is ideal for romance, or a magical night out. After a whirl of activity, you’ll crave quiet once the Sun enters Virgo on the 22nd. The 23rd is best spent away from the noise. Venus, your ruler, enters Leo on the 25th, bringing joy and potential romance back into focus.

Tarot: Six of Pentacles
Give and receive in equal measure. Generosity flows both ways this month.

Scorpio (23 October – 22 November)

You’re rising in your career, even if Mercury retrograde causes a few hiccups early on. Mars in your hidden zone from the 6th gives quiet support from unexpected places. The Full Moon on the 9th is best spent with loved ones, no need for anything grand. After the 11th, your words carry weight. From the 22nd, friendships and group events take centre stage. The 23rd is perfect for a gathering. Venus in Leo from the 25th helps you shine in public and private alike.

Tarot: The Tower
Sudden change shakes the foundations. Trust that what falls away was no longer serving you.

Sagittarius (23 November – 21 December)

August starts with your plans feeling stuck, Mercury retrograde might delay or derail travel. From the 6th, your calendar fills fast. A positive shift comes with the Full Moon on the 9th, news worth celebrating. Once Mercury goes direct on the 11th, go ahead and book that trip. The Sun lights up your career from the 22nd. Say yes to a promotion or opportunity on the 23rd. Venus in Leo from the 25th adds passion to your travels and charm to your encounters.

Tarot: The World
A cycle completes. You’ve come full circle. Celebrate your growth, and look ahead with confidence.

Capricorn (22 December – 19 January)

Money’s a theme this month. Be cautious on the 1st, overspending could set you back. From the 6th, Mars gives your ambition a push. Finances settle after Mercury moves forward on the 11th. The Full Moon on the 9th may shift your income so don’t panic. Wait until things are clearer. Late August is perfect for a holiday, especially around the 23rd. Venus in Leo from the 25th turns up the heat in your relationships when intimacy deepens.

Tarot: King of Cups
Stay steady and emotionally wise. Others may turn to you for calm and counsel.

Aquarius (20 January – 19 February)

August brings growing pains in relationships. Miscommunication is likely until Mercury moves forward on the 11th. Mars in Libra helps you stay graceful under pressure. The Full Moon on the 9th is in your sign, it’s time to say what’s true for you. From the 22nd, your focus shifts to shared resources and money talks. Schedule financial planning for the 23rd. Venus brings fun and flirtation from the 25th, great for healing rifts or meeting someone new.

Tarot: Two of Swords
A decision is needed, but don’t rush. Find quiet and listen to your inner guidance.

Pisces (20 February – 20 March)

Work brings pressure early on and Mercury retrograde means nothing feels smooth. Mars adds emotional intensity from the 6th, but don’t let that spill over. A day off around the Full Moon on the 9th will do you good. Mercury turns direct on the 11th, breathe. From the 22nd, the Sun brings people into your life. A key relationship – romantic, social, or professional could begin on the 23rd. Venus in Leo from the 25th spices up work life, just be mindful who you mix with.

Tarot: Knight of Swords
You’re moving fast, but don’t forget to check the map. Stay sharp and direct, but grounded.

Join the Wyfold RDA family!

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August 3, 2025August 3, 2025

Round & About

Diane Lee tells us about Wyfold Riding for the Disabled Association whose equine helpers, including Archie, provide wonderful experiences. Maybe you could volunteer?

Our workforce of nine horses and ponies give therapeutic riding and driving sessions to 57 people with physical, intellectual, social and emotional challenges.

Activities take place in our purpose-built arena or on an all-weather track and with rides out through the beautiful woods and Wyfold Estate.

We have 24 trained riding coaches and six driving coaches in a team of almost 90 volunteers who look after the horses and ponies under the guidance of our part-time yard manager. More volunteers are needed to help on Tuesdays.

All nine are very special ponies as they carry such vulnerable riders, but they all know their job and can even step it up a gear and compete in regional dressage competitions. Back in May, we took seven of our riders to the RDA South Region Qualifiers where four of them qualified for nationals. We wish all our riders the best of luck!

Another big piece of news at Wyfold is that, after a three-year hiatus from carriage driving, after our pony Lucky retiring and three previous unsuccessful attempts to get going, we have the lovely Archie signed off, having passed his “driving test”. Archie is a 14 hand, 18-year-old Welsh boy and is looking forward to welcoming a further 12 participants on to our books. Our final new addition to the herd is Ebony and she is our youngest pony.

To find out more, please call 01491 680541 or visit wyfoldrda.org.uk

Read more articles in our 2025 Education Guide

View the interactive schools map

Independent schools, reinvented for today

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“We’re not anti-tech, we’re pro childhood,” says Gemma Taylor who is championing Smartphone Free Childhood

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Emma Johnson will perform with Gregg Drott at 7.30pm on Saturday, 27th September, at Amersham Free Church, HP6 6AJ, thanks to Amersham Concert Club

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Cookham author Amanda Boulding tells us about her newest children’s book TOO MUCH! & what she loves about local life

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The Sing Your Pain Away singing groups from Bucks & Oxfordshire celebrated World Music Day by singing at Windsor Castle. Founder Jane Gatfield tells us more…

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Helen Johns tells us about Thame Players’ next production, People by Alan Bennett, at the Players theatre, 9th-13th September

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There’s murder among the marigolds as Netflix teams up with the RHS to launch the Thursday Murder Club in Bloom

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The National Trust presents Helios, a striking 7-metre outdoor sculpture by renowned artist Luke Jerram—combining sound and visuals inspired by the sun—on display at Basildon Park near Reading from 15–18 and 22–25 August 2025

Get the latest news straight to your inbox

What’s in store for you this month? Melanie Harding, founder of Soul Healing Guidance, offers her new monthly guides for all signs…

Aries (21 March – 20 April)

Taurus (21 April – 20 May)

Gemini (21 May – 20 June)

Cancer (21 June – 22 July)

Leo (23 July – 22 August)

Virgo (23 September – 22 October)

Libra (23 September – 22 October)

Scorpio (23 October – 22 November)

Sagittarius (23 November – 21 December)

Capricorn (22 December – 19 January)

Aquarius (20 January – 19 February)

Pisces (20 February – 20 March)

Get the latest news straight to your inbox

Diane Lee tells us about Wyfold Riding for the Disabled Association whose equine helpers, including Archie, provide wonderful experiences. Maybe you could volunteer?

Get the latest news straight to your inbox