the magazine of raf high wycombe issue 1 2019 winter 2015€¦ · the views expressed by the...

Win

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2015 Wycombe

World

The Magazine of RAF High Wycombe ISSUE 1 2019

C O ' S C U P R E P O R T | M A R K I N G 7 5 Y E A R S - T H E G R E AT E S C A P E | R A F T U G O F WA R

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WYCOMBE

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OIC: Fg Off Adam South Ext 6662Editor: Cpl Daniel Phillips Ext 4526Deputy Editor: FS Brian Innes Ext 5251Mailbox: [email protected]

Distribution Manager: Sgt Steven Monks Ext 4527

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CONTENTS ISSUE 1 2019ForewordStation Commander’s Group Captain Rob Woods OBE MA BEng (Hons) RAF

WelcomeEditor’s

32 RAF Benevolent Fund Launches Multi-Million Pound Support

33 Marking 75 Years - The Great Escape

34 RBL/Poppy Appeal

35 Costing Cell's Escape Room & Heritage Walk Adventure

36 Robson Water Sports Centre

37 RAF Tug Of War

38 Bucks Broncos V RAF Benson Match Report

All articles for the ISSUE 2 2019 Edition to be sent to the Editor no later than March 11th to [email protected]. Please send all articles as a word document with all photos and images imbedded with in the article.

W elcome to the first edition of the Wycombe World for 2019, Issue 1. May I thank everyone who has submitted an article, not just for this issue but also for the previous issues throughout the year. Without you and your help this magazine would not happen, so many thanks for your contributions and articles. With your continued support, I hope that we can make 2019 a year to remember, and are able to

capture all your efforts within the magazine. I think you would all agree that this year has been a very busy period for RAF High Wycombe as well as the RAF. Within the sporting community the Men’s Rugby Union side successfully managed to capture the Inter-Service title; and the Tug of War excelled in their showing at the Royal Highland Gathering.

There have been numerous charity events completed,

which have helped raise money for some very worthwhile causes; so well done to all those that have contributed in any shape or form. Without your efforts I am in no doubt these causes would struggle. Finally, Remembrance has been at the forefront of our minds over the last few months, as we came together to remember those who paid the ultimate price in this the 100th year.

Cpl Daniel Phillips

35

Cpl Daniel Phillips

R eturning to work after an extended break can often be difficult, re-adjusting to a different routine and trying to remember where we left off. However, the start of a New Year also brings with it fresh ambition, renewed enthusiasm (I hope!) and perhaps even some clear resolutions to improve oneself, possibly in the gym or in career terms.

As we begin our individual journeys into 2019 I hope that each and every one of you from the RAF High Wycombe community has enjoyed a restful break and have taken some time to evaluate your own ambitions and objectives for the next 12 months. Whatever challenges you set yourself before, the New Year is a great opportunity to refresh them or add to them.

Doing so is an important was to help ensure you retain ‘balance’ in your life, an objective which is more important than ever in this fast-paced, information-rich world that we all live in. Even if it all seems overpowering at times, don’t worry, you’re not alone. We live in a community at RAF High Wycombe which is here to help and assist you. Wycombe World plays an important role in this process of ‘renewal’ too.

While this issue reflects on the many and varied achievements of 2018 by

means of a fabulous photo gallery, it also provides numerous signposts to help you get started in 2019 with those new objectives. Articles on dyslexia, mindfulness & mental wellbeing, starting your own business, together with comprehensive listings of personal development events, Station clubs and sports associations should provide something for everyone. Of course, if you can’t find what you’re looking for then please be proactive and contact the editor and we can address it for the next edition.

Finally, as I look ahead to the beginning of March when I hand over the role and responsibilities of Station Commander to Group Captain Shaun Harris, I would like to thank each and every one of you for your support, encouragement and camaraderie over the past two years. I have enjoyed the privilege of command and would like to wish you all the very best for the future.

Non sibi.

21

06 RAF Career Management Monopoly Challenge

06 Still Keeping It Clean

07 Honours & Awards Ceremony Held On 31 Oct 18

07 Recruit Training Squadron Instructor Opportunity

08 60 Second Spotlight

08 WOSMRP - Envoy

09 TDF RAF High Wycombe Microsoft Courses 2019

10 CO's Cup Report

11 Training Development Flight

13 Dyslexia & The Workplace

14 Medical Centre Force Development Afternoon

15 The Royal Star & Garter Homes

15 Independent Spouse

16 Military Responder Team & Awards Ceremony

16 Medmenham Nursery

16 Cycle Event Safety

18 Station Clubs & Contacts

19 Personal & Professional Development Workshops

19 Horizon Sports Club in Action

20 Picture Board

25 "The C2 Behind The Few"

28 The Oppo Foundation

28 Re-Cycle, A Charity That Gets People Moving

29 Station Charities Committee

30 New High Wycombe Care Home

30 Veterans' Painted Poppies Tribute

31 Mindfulness Pilot To be Extended For All RAF Personnel

08

The views expressed by the contributors to the Wycombe World are not necessarily those of the Editor, MoD, RAF or the publishers and do not reflect Station policy. All precautions are taken to ensure accuracy. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that they conform to the British Code of Advertising Practice. This magazine is published by kind permission of the Station Commander.

WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2019 WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2019 WW: 5WW:4

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WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2019WW: 6

RAF CAREER MANAGEMENT MONOPOLY CHALLENGE

10 OCT 18

Stat

ion

New

s

WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2019 WW: 7

O n 10 Oct 18 members of RAF Career Management Ground Trades held a Force Development Activity to complete the Monopoly Challenge in London. Participants were broken down into teams of 5, with Monopoly pieces as their team names.

The object of the challenge was to stop off at each street name identified in the Monopoly Board Game with additional points being available for the ‘Airpower’ elements. The Air Power elements included locations such as St Clement Danes Church and the Battle of Britain Memorial. All teams had 5 hours to complete the challenge. A very quick brief was given to the teams but they were very eager to get going!

To prove that each team had been to a location, a photo of the team at each location had to be taken, being careful not to incur a forfeit! Points were deducted if the photo included pigeons, London buses or taxis. A lot of points were deducted as you can imagine! Bonus points were added for having photos taken with a celebrity or a dinosaur, teams used a lot of initiative for this! The co-ordination team were kept on their toes all day, marking off the locations for each team and checking for forfeits. The teams were very competitive throughout the day, and the leaderboard at the end of the challenge was very close.

The winning team were Team Boot, who gained the most points during the challenge, but a massive effort was made by all teams to complete as much as they could within the 5 hours, and they rewarded themselves with refreshments on completion.

A very tiring but fantastic day was had by all.

Overall winners, Team Boot, at St Clement Danes Church.

Runners Up Team Top Hat, with a celebrity.

Team Car, at the Churchill Statue.

Team Ship, with a dinosaur.

Team Dog, getting extra points at the Battle of Britain Memorial.

‘STILL KEEPING IT CLEAN!’

P art of RAF High Wycombe’s Gain Share funding for 2016 was used to support the maintenance of the Soft Play Area on 3 Site. A simple and yet surprisingly large ball pit cleaner was purchased to keep the balls in the Soft Play Area squeaky clean – and 2 years down the line it is still doing exactly that!

Padre Mike Hall, aided by members of the Community Support Team commissioned the cleaner back in 2016, which can clean all the balls

in just over 30 minutes. Padre Mike commented, ‘It ’s harder work than you might think – it is a bit of a work out and loads of fun too!’

The Soft Play Area is given a deep clean once a month by a team of volunteers from 3 Site Station Headquarters, and the balls are put through the cleaner at the same time. If you’d like to help them – they would be delighted to hear from you. So if you see the Soft Play Area closed for a day, it is just because we are trying to keep you clean.

HONOURS AND AWARDS CEREMONY HELD ON

31 OCT 18

RECIPIENTS AND AWARDS

Meritorious Service Medal & Clasp to LS-CGMWO J Penney

Meritorious Service MedalWO A Whitton

AOC 1 Gp Team CommendationNo 1 Gp Reserves HQ

AOC 38 Gp CommendationMr B Hardingham

Royal WarrantWO P Bath

WO M DoonaWO G Malam

GSM North Africa& Clasp to LS&GCMMACR P Edwardes

2st Clasp to LS&GC MedalFS B Innes

1st Clasp to LS&GC MedalFS W Parker

RECRUIT TRAINING SQUADRON INSTRUCTOR

OPPORTUNITYAre you ready for a new challenging role? Have you ever considered becoming an Instructor at the Recruit Training Squadron (RTS)?

R TS is looking for the best personnel across all trades to fulfil the role of JNCO Instructor, SNCO Instructor or Flight Commander. If you are selected you will be responsible for the transition of a recruit from civilian life to service life using your experience to overcome the challenges each individual brings. The role will include:

• Drill and Ceremonial duties

• Coaching and Mentoring• Leadership and

Management • Pastoral Care• Formal accreditation

The course is demanding at times however the programme is structured in such a way that you are able

to work alongside a team and plan well into the year.

The Open Day will provide a broad Overview of the Sqn including:

• A brief on the Basic Recruit Training Course (BRTC)

• An opportunity to interact with a range of Sqn Staff

• Discussion with recently graduated recruits

• A presentation from ACOS Manning staff

• And much more;• Enabling all applicants

to make a well-informed decision prior to volunteering for RTS Trainer duties.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO CONFIRM ATTENDANCE PLEASE CONTACT:

Mrs Emilia Mallam 95237 x6036 [email protected]

Fg Off Craig Nicholls 95237 x6464 [email protected]

RTS Training Supervisors Sgt Dan Martin 95237 x6631 Daniel.

[email protected]

Still Interested?Recruit Training Squadron is currently holding Open Days on:

1. 26 Feb 192. 26 March 19

to accomplish the tasks, & the overall cost to plan a project? Microsoft Office Project acts as a tool that assists you in managing your projects. In this course, you will create & modify a project plan, set a baseline, track project actuals & report against the plan using Microsoft Project.

Microsoft Project Advanced – 2 DayYou will now see how to manage cost effectively & track the progress of plans in Project. You will exchange project plan data with other applications, customise elements, automate activities & reuse project plan information.

Excel Level 1 (Introduction) – 1 DayIn this course, you will create & edit basic Microsoft Office Excel worksheets & workbooks. Designed for delegates who desire to gain the necessary skills to create, edit, format, & print basic Excel worksheets.

Excel Level 2 (Intermediate) – 1 DayIn this course, you will use advanced formulas & work with various tools to analyse data in spreadsheets. You will also organise table data, present data as charts, & enhance the look & appeal of workbooks by adding graphical objects.

Excel Level 3 (Advanced) – 1 DayIn this course, you will automate some common Excel tasks, apply advanced analysis techniques to more complex data sets, collaborate on worksheets with others & share Excel data with other applications.

Microsoft Project Intro – 2 DayNeed to gather information about the various tasks involved, resources required

WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2019 WW: 9WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2019WW: 8

WOSMRP-Envoy

Name: Wing Commander Dawn Akyildiz

Job: Officer Commanding Base Support Wing

Your RAF career so far: Varied, and lots of fun! Worked with lots of really great people in several traditional training roles, including being the Station Training Officer at RAF Brize Norton, the Training Officer at Airmen’s Command Squadron and OC FDS at RAF Waddington. Learnt new skills and faced different challenges in non-traditional roles like working in the media and information operations environment in the Joint Information Activities Group and as the MA to Commander Kandahar Airfield. Unexpectedly loved a role I wasn’t keen to be posted into in 22 Group Training Capability, where I worked on the Protector and P-8 programmes.

Your claim to fame? I suppose I have long-lasting fame from the A-2-Z High Ropes course that I managed to get funds to have constructed at RAF Brize Norton (I promise the naming was done by my Squadron Leader at the time and is not some crazy hubris on my part!). But I’m more proud of volunteering to be the deputy coach for the RAF Netball Squad from 2013-2016 and getting to work with and help lots of talented RAF sportswomen in a sport I’m passionate about.

Your advice to anyone? Take every opportunity life throws at you and follow your passions.

What do you do when away from work? Spend time with my family or playing sport. I play netball for the RAF (in the Masters Team nowadays!), and weekend training is about to commence as we prepare to defend our title in the Inter-Services Competition in March 2019. Also, I have recently taken up road cycling, so I try and get as many long rides as I can on weekends. Other than that I love taking holidays with my

other half or visiting my parents who have retired in Spain.

What are you most proud of? I’m particularly proud that my team of Service and civilian volunteers at RAF Waddington received an AOC’s Commendation for rejuvenating and expanding the excellent Station Heritage Centre. On a more personal note, I’m really proud to have played in the RAF Netball squad almost every year since I joined up and it still gives me a great buzz to take the court for my Service, with so many fantastic RAF women of all ranks and trades, against the Army and RN teams.

If you were sent to a desert island, what three things would you take with you? A kindle with the complete science fiction works of Larry Niven, Philip K. Dick and John Scalzi. As much chocolate as I could carry; I’m a complete chocoholic and would prioritise maltesers over all other food groups. A drum set – I’ve been wanting to learn for a while but my other half objects to the awful racket I would make - this would give me the space to be as noisy and terrible at it as I like.

What irritates you the most? A negative or defeatist attitude. I always want to see the opportunities or possibilities in life and I tend to believe a well-bonded team can overcome obstacles with a little more hard work or by encouraging each other to think differently.

What is your favourite place in the world? Australia. The sky feels so wide and the horizon seems to go on forever because it’s so sparsely populated. Also the geography is so different along the coasts and Northern Territory from the interior. It makes me smile to think about visiting again.

What would surprise people about you? I’m a proud Geordie from Wallsend, Tyne & Wear even though I don’t have an accent and actually spent most of my childhood near the North Yorkshire moors.

60SECOND SPOTLIGHT

In modern times, stress feels more and more part of our everyday lives. What causes stress to us depends in part with the circumstances we face; domestic issues, relationships and work factors can all play a part and whilst serving in the Royal Air Force these pressures can accumulate quickly. Some of us can roll with the punches and take these stressors ‘in our stride, whilst some will require help to get through these times. However, there are those who will not seek help and may find that these times become so uncomfortable that they become ill.

For those serving in today’s Royal Air Force, we recognise our people face a variety of pressures and we do all we can to help. This starts on joining and throughout Service where Stress Management and Resilience training is provided at all levels of training; from basic to recruit to managers in a bid to normalise the issue and encourage our people to seek assistance at the early stages of feeling uncomfortable.

When faced with a problem a Service Person has a number of avenues for support and guidance to turn to. They can speak with their Line Manager or alternatively seek help from the Padre or SSAFA worker (their out of hours helpline is 0300 0111 723), who are also open to direct approaches from families. In February 2018, the Ministry of Defence and Combat Stress launched a new partnership to provide a 24-hour mental health helpline (0800 323 444) for serving personnel and their families.

If a problem isn’t addressed it could lead to an illness which will require an intervention from a Dr who may refer the individual to a specialist. Talking with a trained professional can help you learn to deal with stress and become more aware of your own thoughts and feelings.

The Big White Wall is an online Mental Health and Wellbeing service with a range of self-help programmes. MOD has a contract, running for several years now, with Big White Wall that allows free access for Armed Forces, Veterans and families.

More recently the MOD has partnered with the Royal Foundation with the aim of providing a suite of information and training products that promote good Mental Health and access to support. The Samaritans are also part-way through a project to deliver training and information to the Service Community to reduce the risks of suicide.

More directly the RAF Benevolent Fund continue to support the RAF Community with a variety of initiatives such as access to Anxiety UK as presented in Envoy (Spring 18).

Veterans and their families have the opportunity to access support from a huge variety of different agencies, including the RAF Benevolent Fund, and might find it difficult to know where to start. The help the MOD has developed the Veterans Gateway as a first point of call for anyone needing help.

https://www.veteransgateway.org.uk/

The Station Learning Centre at RAF High Wycombe has procured a limited number of training places (10 per course) for the following Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Project courses

Line Managers must approve and justify any training requirements prior to returning the application form to FS Professional Development. Once all forms have been received these will be checked for suitability and those that are successful will be notified and informed of timings and location.

TDF RAF HIGH WYCOMBE

MICROSOFT COURSES 2019

15 - Jan 19 23 - Sep 19

05 - Mar 19 05 - Nov 19

15 - May 19 14 - Jan 20

09 - Jul 19 10 - Mar 20

09 - Apr 19 01 Oct 19

11 - Jul 19 10 Dec 19

06 Aug 19 11 Feb 20

21 - Feb 19 16 - Sep 19

07 - May 19 04 - Feb 20

17 - 18 Jan 19 13 – 14 May 19

04 – 05 Jun 19 08 – 09 Oct 19

Excel Level 1 (Introduction)

Excel Level 2 (Intermediate)

Excel Level 3 (Advanced)

Microsoft Project Intro

Microsoft Project Advanced

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to have an Early Years Teacher within its dedicated team of staff. With nurseries based in Naphill, Hazlemere, Flackwell Heath and Marlow Bottom.

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Are you looking for exceptional childcare?

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Tel: 01494 564439

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WE STRIVE TO OFFER:• A loving and homely environment where

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BSW

TRAINING DEVELOPMENT FLIGHT

R AF Service Personnel below the rank of Air Cdre are to undertake RAF Diversity and Inclusion training at unit-level and the training is to be recorded on JPA. Current training provision is a facilitator-led package titled ‘Face it, Fix it’

and the competency is valid for 3 years. This training is mandatory and it is a personal responsibility to ensure that training remains valid. There are no exemptions to the training for prior learning or training provided by another Service or country.

Diversity and Inclusion Courses - 2019FS G LAWRENCE EXT 6723

Human Factors Training - 2019FS G LAWRENCE EXT 6723

Module 1 - Human Factors (HF) Foundation Trg

It is mandated in leaflet 8141 to AP8000 that all RAF personnel and MoD Civil Service (MoD CS) are to

complete Human Factors (HF) Foundation training.When completed, the JPA competency “Flight Safety|Human Factors Foundation Training|Joint” is awarded.

Available dates are as follows:

Location: Station Briefing Room, Station Learning Centre, Building 34, Site 3

Conference Room A, Site 1Timings: 0900-1200 hrs

T eams were tasked to work together to achieve the highest scores possible in all the eight events. Each event lasted five minutes with scorers on each station ensuring all rules were adhered to. This was necessary knowing some of personnel in attendance.

The day began with Cpl Hollyman and Cpl Joyce; otherwise known as Double Trouble, briefing the teams on the event and what’s to unfold. Once all the activities were briefed it was time to kick off the event. There was a mixture of activities from maximum calories on the Air Bike to pulling a weighted sled as far you can.

Once the first round had got going all 4 teams got into the swing of things. There were a lot of tactical change overs taking place along with extraordinary methods of performing the skills. Flt Lt Davies led the way on this with his rather unusual walking lunges. It was like watching the magical moment a baby giraffe walking for the first time from birth.

With competitiveness increasing and fitness levels decreasing, personnel were pushing themselves to their limits. Cpl Phillips leading the way with a close call on the burpee box jump overs. Forgetting the box was there he did brilliantly

CO'S CUP REPORTON WED 18 OCT 18 RAF HIGH WYCOMBE PERSONNEL MUSTERED IN THE SOUTHDOWN GYMNASIUM FOR WHAT PLANNED TO BE A GREAT AFTERNOON FOR THE ENDURANCE CO’S CUP.

to roll out of the fall with such grace and elegance. The nature of the event was also bringing technique into the limelight. None more so than Flt Lt Davies, who seems to have forgotten what a press up consists of since his days as a PTI.

With all eight activities completed it was time to calculate who had been victorious. Flt Lt Davies thanked everyone for their efforts, with what breath he had left, in what turned out to be a top afternoon led by the PTI’s. With anticipation building for the announcement of the winner, it was Team 4 who were crowned champions.

A thoroughly enjoyable and challenging afternoon for all who participated and we look forward to the next event that is the Christmas Quiz on Wed 12 Dec 18.


Course Dates Venue - 1330

1 15-Jan-19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

2 24-Jan-19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site

3 05-Feb-19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

4 21-Feb-19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site

5 05-Mar-19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

6 20-Mar-19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site

7 02-Apr-19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

8 09-Apr-19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

9 24-Apr-19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site

10 01-May-19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

11 16-May-19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site

12 28-May-19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

13 04-Jun-19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

14 19-Jun-19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site

15 25-Jun-19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

16 02-Jul-19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

17 09-Jul-19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

18 25-Jul-19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site

19 06-Aug-19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

20 21-Aug-19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site

21 10-Sep-19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

22 12-Sep-19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site

23 24-Sep-19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

24 01-Oct-19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

25 17-Oct-19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site

26 29-Oct-19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

27 27-Nov-19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site

28 04-Dec-19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site

29 27-Nov-19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site

30 04-Dec-19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site

Location: Station Briefing Room, Station Learning Centre, Building 34, Site 3Conference Room A, Site 1Timings: 1330-1530hrsAll these courses including further details can be

booked via the Sharepoint; ‘I Need to Book...FD Course’ or via the following URL:

https://modgovuk.sharepoint.com/teams/8128/Pages/I-Need-To.aspx

Course Dates Venue - 0900hrs

1 24 Jan 19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site

2 5 Feb 19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

3 20 Mar 19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site

4 9 Apr 19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

5 16 May 19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site

6 11 Jun 19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

7 25 Jul 19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site

8 13 Aug 19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

9 25 Sep 19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

10 17 Oct 19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site

11 20 Nov 19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

12 4 Dec 19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site


WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2019WW: 12 WW: 13WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2019

T hrough the great work of the British Dyslexia Association and others, awareness of dyslexia has significantly increased. However, the knowledge and understanding around identifying dyslexia; addressing needs and how to develop strategies to overcome challenges still needs improving.

The British Dyslexia Association has been listening, supporting and empowering people for over 40 years. During that time a lot has changed within education, employment and everyday life. Therefore, in conjunction with National Dyslexia Week, TDF held an open discussion session, helping to work towards a dyslexia-friendly society. A society where the dyslexic individual fully meets their potential and are recognised for their strengths.

The afternoon included a presentation about dyslexia from WO Gail Lawrence (TDF) and a presentation from Sqn Ldr Andrea MacFarlane who is a qualified dyslexia assessor about how the dyslexic brain works. There were discussions about all types of Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLDs), the Dyslexic Adult Screening Test and different coping mechanisms. The presentations drew many questions from personnel from all over the Stn who are both recognized dyslexics and Line Managers who just wanted to know what dyslexia is their responsibilities are being involved.

So what is Dyslexia?Dyslexia is known as SpLD. This is because the challenges that a dyslexic individual might experience are only related to specific areas of activity. It is a combination of abilities and differences where each individual is likely to be

different. There is no “template for dyslexia” each person is likely to be different, and like all individuals, unique.

The word ‘dyslexia’ comes from the Greek and means ‘difficulty with words’ In simple terms dyslexia stems from differences in the brain both in the make-up and structure, and in the way it processes particular sorts of information, usually language based information. It affects the under-lying skills that are needed for learning to read, write and spell.

Around 4% of the population is severely dyslexic. A further 6% have mild to moderate problems. Dyslexia is classed as a disability and is included within the Equality Act 2010 because it is life long and can have an impact on someone’s day to day living.

Challenges and TalentsAlthough many adults who are dyslexic may have learned to read well there may still be residual challenges with reading speed and fast comprehension of what has been read. Spelling and composing writing, especially if under pressure to do it quickly, can also pose challenges.

Being organised can sometimes be a problem, knowing what to do when, in which order and how long something should take. Although many have learnt lots of strategies there are often issues with short term and working memory, so individuals may appear forgetful and have challenges retrieving information that they know when put “on the spot”. Because the brain processes information differently the route that information takes within the brain to get processed may be longer. However, good coping strategies and some

reasonable adjustments and/or assistive technology can overcome these challenges.

Dyslexic people often have distinctive talents as well as typical clusters of difficulties and include:

• Determination – Often individuals have experienced challenges in school and overcome these. This leads them to being determined to succeed and in some cases highly driven.

• A large number of successful innovators and entrepreneurs are dyslexic – Richard Branson, Thomas Edison, Einstein, to name but a few.

The different connections in the brain lead to different ways of analysing problems that can lead to the creation of innovative solutions.

Dyslexic individuals tend to have good social skills and are often empathetic.

Dyslexic individuals often have to develop their own way of doing things, sometimes this is just generally a better way of doing things!There are a lot of dyslexic individuals working in the creative fields such as the arts, but also in areas such as architecture, design, advertising, marketing, PR, computer programming, sales, care, the blue light services, etc. to name but a few.

Dyslexia in the workplaceRoughly 15% of the global population (about 9 million people in the UK alone) have dyslexia. That’s 15% of the workforce that are employed and 15% of the customers businesses are trying to reach! Supporting your employees enables potential and productivity to be maximised.

Ensuring accessibility and using assistive technology supports individuals, employees and customers.

In simple terms being dyslexia friendly makes good business sense!

Reasonable AdjustmentsReasonable adjustments are just things that can be put in place to support an individual often they are low cost or no cost. Frequently they improve things for everyone. Supporting dyslexia is good practice for all and creates a better working environment.

What do I do if I think I might be dyslexic?If you think that you might be dyslexic or know that you are dyslexic the first thing to do is talk to your line manager. Discuss what is working well and those things that you are finding challenging. It may be helpful to have a Dyslexia Adult Screening Test, which can be conducted by the TDF staff. Finally keep talking about it!

For further advice please contact Mrs Alison Low or WO Gail Lawrence in TDF on:[email protected] or [email protected]

JOIN US IN RAISING DYSLEXIA AWARENESS.

GO AND GET INFORMATION

GO AND GET TESTED, GO AND GET HELP

“Just because an employee does things differently doesn't mean he or she won't do the job right or as well. If you establish expectations of the goal and the standards to follow, then methodology shouldn't be an issue”.

Harvey Mackay -Author

Module 2 – Error Management (EM) Foundation Trg

Module 2 - Error Management (EM) Foundation Trg is mandated in leaflet 8141 to AP8000 that all RAF personnel and MoD Civil Service (MoD CS) are to complete. This training holds a 2 year currency and is to be re-invigorated by

completing the Human Factors (HF) & Error Management (EM) Continuation Trg.

When completed, the JPA competency “Flight Safety|Error Management Foundation Training|Joint” is awarded.



1 22 Jan 19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

2 14 Feb 19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site



5 10 Apr 19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site



8 4 Jun 19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site



11 14 Aug 19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site


13 12 Sep 19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site

14 23 Oct 19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site


16 19 Nov 19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site


18 10 Dec 19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

Location: Station Briefing Room, Station Learning Centre, Building 34, Site 3

Conference Room A, Site 1Timings: 0900-1200 hrs.

Human Factors (HF) & Error Management (EM) Continuation Trg - 2019

AP8000 details all personnel to maintain a HF & EM currency. Personnel are to maintain a 2-yearly currency iaw MAA RA1440(2), which is achieved through attending a HF/EM Cont Trg. This training holds a 2 year currency but if the 2 year currency has elapsed, personnel are not required to

attend a further Foundation session, they are to attend the earliest available HF/EM Facilitation session. This will reinvigorate the 2-year currency training iaw MAA RA1440(2).Facilitation sessions gain the JPA competency “Flight Safety|Human Factors Continuation Training|Joint”.



1 22 Jan 19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site

2 14 Feb 19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site



5 10 Apr 19 Conf Rm A - 1 Site















20 28 Aug 19 Stn Brf Rm - 3 Site











Location: Station Briefing Room, Station Learning Centre, Building 34, Site 3Conference Room A, Site 1Timings: 0900-1200 hrs.All these courses including further details can be

booked via the Sharepoint; ‘I Need to Book...FD Course’ or via the following URL:

https://modgovuk.sharepoint.com/teams/8128/Pages/I-Need-To.aspx

AND THE WORKPLACE

WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2019 WW:15

O n 19th Sep seven civilian and military personnel from the Med Centre braved gusting winds for a Force Development afternoon at The Robson Water sports Centre, based at Central Fund Danesfield on the banks of the river Thames. The team has had a lot of new members join recently so this was as an ideal way of building ‘esprit de corps’ and bringing the section together.

After a short journey to the Centre the afternoon started with a full safety brief by chief Instructor Sgt Mike Nicholson and issue of kit needed to keep us safe and warm.

There was much trepidation amongst the group at the thought of undertaking the 50m swim test in the cold, murky water, but all passed it with no issue so we could continue the water-based activities.

The first activity was a team raft building exercise. We were given 30 mins to create a raft out of various items and paddle it across to the opposite bank. The adage of ‘if you can’t tie knots, tie lots’ certainly rang true for the group, with the end result looking like a snake’s wedding! The raft was launched with great hope, only for it to disintegrate and float downstream once we were all aboard. Although we didn’t complete the

challenge it brought us together as a team and had fun performing the challenge, regardless of the result.

Due to the strong winds that day we were unable to get out on the Dragon Boat as originally planned for our second activity, but the brilliant instructor (ex-RAF High Wycombe PTI, Cpl Hugh Smith) adapted and overcame, to deliver Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) to the group. This was a new activity for everyone and we took to it like ducks to water. The instructor demonstrated individual and partner challenges for us to complete on the SUP, which everyone had a go at some more successfully than others. Culminating in some excellent ‘swan-dives’ on the SUP to finish.

The day finished with a big thank you to the instructors for having us and a discussion of how we performed over a warm drink in the Centre.

Other activities offered include sit on top kayaking, kayaking, canoeing, leaderless and leader allocated challenges, mountain biking and orienteering. For more information please contact the Chief Instructor on [email protected] , available dates and current bookings can be found by viewing the Chief Instructors shared outlook calendar.

MEDICAL CENTRE FORCE DEVELOPMENT AFTERNOON

WW: 15

R esidents, staff and volunteers from The Royal Star & Garter Homes have recited a poem written to commemorate 100 years since the end of the First World War.

A Wound in Time has been penned by Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy and is part of film director Danny Boyle’s Pages of the Sea project, which is marking the Armistice centenary on beaches around Britain on 11 November.

It ties in with #RSGHremembers - the Charity ’s Remembrance Day campaign which launched last week featuring staff, volunteers and residents from The Royal Star & Garter Homes holding photographs or medals of relatives who fought in the First World War.

The Royal Star & Garter Homes cares for ex-Servicemen and women and their partners living with disability or dementia at award-winning homes in Surbiton and Solihull.

The reading is especially poignant as the Charity was founded in 1916 to care for

the severely injured young men returning from the battlegrounds of the First World War.

Unable to travel to the coast but keen to play a part in the project, residents from both Homes read the poem, along with staff and volunteers.

Pauline Shaw, Director of Care, said: “Residents wanted to share reading the poem aloud because they can’t be at the beaches on November 11. I’m delighted staff and volunteers are involved too because the Charity is a family.”

Pages of the Sea will see portraits of people who left their communities to serve in the 1914-1918 conflict drawn into the sand at selected beaches, before being washed away by the sea. A Wound in Time will be read by individuals, families and communities on the day.

Residents in the Charity ’s Solihull Home have also been inspired by Pages of the Sea to paint poppies on 100 pebbles to mark the Armistice centenary. To view the video, go to: https://vimeo.com/297928727


Com

mun

ity

A WOUND IN TIME, BY CAROL ANN DUFFY

It is the wound in Time. The century’s tides,chanting their bitter psalms, cannot heal it.

Not the war to end all wars; death’s birthing place;the earth nursing its ticking metal eggs, hatching

new carnage. But how could you know, braveas belief as you boarded the boats, singing?

The end of God in the poisonous, shrapneled air.Poetry gargling its own blood. We sense it was love

you gave your world for; the town squares silent,awaiting their cenotaphs. What happened next?

War. And after that? War. And now? War. War.History might as well be water, chastising this shore;

for we learn nothing from your endless sacrifice.Your faces drowning in the pages of the sea.

J ess Sands is no stranger to the challenges of starting a business. A few years ago, she was a successful full-time graphic designer, with a portfolio including Disney, Caroline Gardner and Marks & Spencer. But when she met her future husband, a pilot in the RAF, everything changed. Moving house every two years meant that Jess had to give up the career that she loved. After a year struggling to get employment in a market that is often reluctant to hire military spouses due to their transitory nature, Jess decided to develop her own business Design Jessica. Since then she has gone from strength to strength.

Jess is passionate about helping other military spouses through the same difficult transition that she made. Her business specialises in designing branding for new companies being set up by spouses, and as a founder of the Forces Enterprise Network Business Community, she encourages others in similar situations to share their experiences and challenges, helping them to help themselves. Now she has a new project aiming to give a voice to those who are already achieving amazing things, and to inspire those who dream of doing the same.

The InDependent SpouseTM is a series of fun, informative

INDEPENDENT SPOUSE

weekly podcasts which explores the world of running a business by chatting to inspiring military entrepreneurs. Aimed at enterprising military spouses, the first series sees Jess interview such luminaries as Heledd Kendrick (Recruit for Spouses), Peter Mountford (Heropreneurs & the Veterans’ Foundation) and Natalie Trezise (Your Home Patch). Each episode is full of useful tips and amusing anecdotes, many of which will be familiar to those trying to create their own successful businesses while living the ‘magnolia wall life’.

The first series of The InDependent SpouseTM is available now on iTunes. Jess is currently selecting for guests for Series 2. So, whether you are a military spouse starting out in business or are already running a successful company, if you want to share your story and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs, you can get in touch with Jess at [email protected]

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/TheInDependentSpouse/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/theindependentspouse/

Web - https://theindependentspouse.co.uk/

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RAF HIGH WYCOMBE MILITARY RESPONDER TEAM HONS AND

AWARDS CEREMONY

R AF High Wycombe Responder team are drawn from all ranks and branches of the service. They are trained by the South Central Ambulance Service as medics and also as blue light response drivers. In return they are required to work the minimum of one shift per week, usually in the evening.

The team’s role is to augment front-line ambulance crews by attending incidents allocated to them by the control centre in Bicester. In the course of a shift they could be called to patients

suffering a wide variety of problems, for example: heart attacks; breathing problems; falls; sporting injuries, burns and scalds.

As a secondary duty it is very fulfilling and worthwhile. Further details of how to join can be obtained from Sgt Jim Collins at A6. The team were awarded the AOC 38 Gp Team Commendation in HM Queen’s birthday honours in June and were presented with it at the September Honours and Awards ceremony by David Liddington CBE MP.

Military Responder team with their award: Back row left to right: Cpl Jamie Torrance; Sgt Rob Dorling; Sgt Matt Ridsdale; Sgt Jim Collins; Flt Sgt Simon Wilkinson; Wg Cdr Justin Butcher

Front Row left to right: Flt Lt Andy Davidson; Station Warrant Officer Emma Kerslake; Rt Hon David Liddington MP; Station Commander Group Captain Rob Woods; SAC Huw Pateman

Not present: Wg Cdr Duncan Rogers; Sqn Ldr James Lainchbury; Flt Lt Lee Lightfoot; Sgt Geoff Bratt; Cpl Pete Swales; FS Jason Barron; FS Joanthan Smith; Sgt Nigel Lisowski.

MEDMENHAM NURSERY

M embers of the RAF Medmenham community wanted to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War and Remembrance Sunday in a rather special way. A tree situated outside the Danesfield Arms has been covered in hand made poppy pompoms, a wreath, artwork, crocheted poppies and a beautiful ceramic clock designed to show the 11th hour of the 11th day.

Many of the crocheted poppies were also kindly donated to the tree by members of the Marlow community after they had heard what was happening. These include purple poppies which represent

animals that were killed in conflict. Children from Spring Medmenham nursery also contributed with their own hand made poppies which were ‘planted’ at the bottom of the tree.

The ‘Remembrance Tree’ was created as a way for the Medmenham community to get involved in a significant time of the year for many who live there and to help to engage and teach the children about the importance of the poppy and the act of Remembrance.

The tree is steadily becoming a focal point for seasonal decorations and attracting artistic contributions from across the patch, so keep an eye out for the next theme and join in!

Team leader Jamie Torrance receiving the award from David Liddington MP.

O n 23 Jan I am arranging a Cycle Safety event that will be held near the front of Hurricane block from 1000 - 1300hrs.

There will be free bike safety checks carried out by Saddle Safari (you can purchase repair items if required), a bike shop in Marlow.

The police will display their police pedal cycle and we hope to have a display

showing the minimum distance cars should allow when passing a cyclist, the law has recently changed.

We will also be giving away various reflective Hi-Vis items and flashy light arm bands as well as safe riding advice. Pedestrians and car drivers are invited to attend to see how we can all share the road safely.

Steve Moore

CYCLE SAFETY EVENT

WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2019 WW: 19WW: 19

Interview Skills * Active Listening Types of Loss * Coping MechanismsWhy listen? * Listening vs Hearing Living with Loss * Grief Models.

What is EI? * Why EI Surpasses IQ * Self-awareness * Making Better Decisions * Impulse Control * Understand Yourself.Triggers * Anger is Self or

Others Why get stressed? * Healthy Balance * Rhinos & Hedgehogs * Emotional Control Physiological Response * Stress & Performance.

Fancy a Coffee?! *Addictive Personality * Addictive Habits & How to Break Them.

2019: January10 – Understanding Emotional Intelligence15 – Understanding & Recognising Addictions22 – Understanding Bereavement & Loss24 – Introduction to Mindfulness30 – Understanding & Managing Anger

February05 – Introduction to Listening Skills12 – Understanding Bereavement & Loss14 – Understanding Emotional Intelligence27 – The Dark Side of Leadership*

March08 – Understanding & Managing Anger*12 – Introduction to Mindfulness21 – Understanding & Recognising Addictions*26 – Understanding & Recognising Stress

April04 – Introduction to Listening Skills30 – Understanding Emotional Intelligence

May02 – Introduction to Mindfulness07 – The Dark Side of Leadership15 – Understanding & Recognising Addictions

Jun11 – Understanding Emotional Intelligence

All workshops 1315 with Padre Kevin upstairs in the IWF, 3 Site, except *0915. The Dark Side of Leadership

Are all Good Leaders Good Leaders?Toxic Leadership * Authentic Leadership Sign up as an individual, or contact Padre Kevin for bespoke session for your flt/sect/group/friends

To book, text:Course title and date with your name/rank/section to:07966 175085 Or email Padre Kevin or Anita Daly, Chaplain’s Clerk: [email protected] [email protected]


CHILD CARE

Medmenham Spring – Dani Bowman [email protected] 01494 494470

Red Kites Nursery –[email protected] 01494 564439

Wise Owls Nursery – [email protected] 01494 563881

Toddlers – Gordana Tancheva-Cobley [email protected] 07531273942

Babies & Bumps, Toddlers and Stay and Play – Hive [email protected] 01494 497831

CLUBS

Rainbows - Tracey Clark on [email protected] 01494 497831To enrol your daughter https://enquiryym.girlguiding.org.uk/

Brownies – Caroline Purdom [email protected] 07968 861 749.

To enrol your daughter https://enquiryym.girlguiding.org.uk

Theatre Club – Ellis Artus [email protected] 01844 347818

Ben Club & Youth Club – HIVE [email protected] or 01494 497831Christina Bohane Fitness – Christina www.christinabohane.com 07740 880966

Commissioning Club – Flt Lt Mark Warburton [email protected] 01494 495245

Command Performers – Flt Lt Rich Doyle [email protected] 01494 496180

Danesfield Arms Club – Sqn Ldr Dave Carter [email protected] 01494 496104

Music Club – Sgt Anthony Haworth [email protected] 01494 497566

Smithy’s – Sgt Bryan [email protected] 01494 497581

Youth Club – Dani Bowman [email protected] 01494 494470

HIVE

Hive – Tracey Clarke [email protected] 01494 497831

Service Community Support Officer – WO Barry Tanswell [email protected] 01494 494471

Community Development Officer – Dani Bowman [email protected] 01494 494470Padre – Rev Sqn Ldr Kevin Capelin-Jones [email protected] 01494 494469 or 07770226280

Padre Clerk – Anita Daly [email protected] 01494 494481

SSAFA – Amy Suttling [email protected] 01494 496737 Out of Hours 02074639358

SPORTS TEAMS

Badminton – Sqn Ldr Darren Jones [email protected]

Cricket – Flt Lt Harry Dowden [email protected]

Equestrian Saddle Club – Sgt Christina Robinson [email protected] 01494 497099

Football – Sgt Gary Longley [email protected] 01494 496915

Golf – WO John Sanderson [email protected] 493078

Hockey – Fg Off Amna Lawrenson [email protected]

Judo – Sqn Ldr Steve Parlor [email protected] 01494 497065 or 07792204571

Jujitsu – Holly Hudson [email protected] 07957 727 054 or Sqn Ldr Dave [email protected] 01296 656505

Orienteering – FS Ian Hall [email protected] – Flt LT Paul Macdonald [email protected]

Rugby Union – Cpl Daniel Phillips [email protected] 01494 494533 or 5426

Squash – Flt Lt Chris McGenity [email protected] 01494 497968

Sub Aqua – Fg Off Andy Cain [email protected] 01494 496562 or 07854809373

Target Shooting (Rifle and Pistol) – Sqn Ldr Chris Fopp [email protected] 01494 496458

Tennis – Wg Cdr Stu Graham [email protected] 01494 496228

Tug of War – Flt Lt Gareth Davies [email protected] 01494 497828

Winter Sports – Flt Lt Gareth Paddock [email protected] 96770 7676 or 0306770 7676

uk

HORIZON SPORTS CLUB IN ACTION: SWIMMING, 26TH

SEPTEMBER 2018

It was a pleasure to meet the coach (Emin Ates, centre right) and volunteers who make Horizon the fabulous charity it is.

There is a strong local connection RAF High Wycombe. Flight Sgt Gail Lawrence, featured in the photo on the left is a regular volunteer.

I also took the opportunity to chat to some of the Sports Centre staff including Hassam Mirza, duty manager and Jermaine Roberts, swimming coach.

STATION CLUBS AND SPORTS CONTACTS

PERSONAL & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOPS

2019

WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2019 WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2019 WW: 2120 WW:WW: 20 21

Pict

ure

Boar

d

WOs' & SNCOs' Mess visit to the National Museum of the Royal Navy and HMS Victory photo by WO G. Parish.

RAF High Wycombe’s Garden of Remembrance sited on 1 site, 2 images by WO Parish.

RAF High Wycombe’s Garden of Remembrance sited on 1 site, by WO Parish. Members of the WOs' & SNCOs' Mess visit to the National

Museum of the Royal Navy photo by WO G. Parish.

Members of the WOs' & SNCOs''Mess visit to the National Museum of the Royal Navy 2 photo by WO G. Parish.

Sun Set over the stern of HMS

Victory photo by WO G. Parish.

WOs' & SNCOs' Mess visit to the National Museum of the Royal Navy and HMS Victory 2 photo by WO G. Parish.

WOs' & SNCOs' Mess visit to the National Museum of the Royal Navy and HMS Victory.

RAF High Wycombe’s Garden of Remembrance sited on 1 site, by WO Parish.



WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2019 WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2019 WW:WW: 2322

CO's cup Christmas quiz .

Battle of Britain Ball - WOs' & SNCOs' Mess.Battle of Britain Ball - WOs' & SNCOs' Mess.

Battle of Britain Ball - WOs' & SNCOs' Mess.Battle of Britain Ball - WOs' & SNCOs' Mess.

RAF Equine Association.

Olympia Semi-Final. Olympia Semi-Final.


Hist

oria

n

Hostiles approaching, 20 minute warning.” At this point, Britain’s Chain Home radar would detect the incoming wave of German aircraft and send initial reports to the Filter Room at Bentley Priory. At the 15-minute mark, Chain Home Low radar would pick up any low flyers. RAF pilots are scrambled. At 10 minutes from London, the Royal Observer Corps are spotting enemy and reporting altitudes and vectors. Exploiting all this information, the Uxbridge Operations Room has visually created the air picture and is talking friendly interceptors onto hostile bombers and fighters. Thousands of timely decisions, aided by contemporary technology, formed a fine example of Air Command and Control (C2) and a legacy of lessons still relevant today.

The UK Joint Force Air Component (JFAC) is the RAF’s rapid, deployable and scalable Air C2 Headquarters. On 19th September, serving unit members embarked on a Force Development visit to Fighter Command HQ at Bentley Priory and the 11 Group Battle of Britain Bunker at RAF Uxbridge. Led by Flt Lt “EJ” Logan, an Aerospace Battle Manager currently training in the role of Senior Air Defence Officer, the visit provided an opportunity to reflect on the enduring challenges of Air C2 and analyse their lessons.

The Filter Room at Bentley Priory was an essential link in the Dowding System. Collating reports from radar and observers on the coast, the ladies of the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) would plot the hostile course

on the large-scale map of the British Isles. Today, our reliance on algorithms leads us to forget that these women were performing complex trigonometry at a blistering rate, yet the simplicity of the map allowed the commander to easily visualise the situation.

Down in the depths of the High Wycombe bunker, the UK JFAC repeat this process today, albeit through use of the Integrated Command and Control Software for Air Operations (ICC). The evolution of the Filter Room may be digitalised, but the information on the screen is identical and most importantly, deployable. The UK JFAC is at readiness to deploy overseas and establish Air C2 anywhere in the world. A high tempo of exercises and internal validation will see the UK JFAC become the lead Air C2 organisation for the NATO Reaction Force in 2020. Thanks to the inspiration from this visit, we will be taking some lessons learnt from our wartime predecessors with us.

As we descended into the 11 Group bunker Operations Room at RAF Uxbridge, it was hard to ignore the feeling of familiarity. Our Aerospace Battle Managers were definitely back in their comfort zone. Tote boards showing aircraft readiness states and mapping of the Recognised Air Picture, overlaid with friendlies and hostiles, are their bread and butter. It was at this point, the tour guide realised he had to step up his game! The WAAFs that worked around this table were a phenomenal C2 force to be reckoned with and this spirit and capability is maintained to this day; Winston Churchill, after visiting the Ops Room on 16th August 1940, best summed up the Battle of Britain’s decisive day. Turning to Major General Ismay, Churchill declared: “Don't speak to me, I have never been so moved.”

So what has changed for Air C2 in the current day? The short answer is everything, and nothing at all. The technology has far surpassed anything that even Dowding could have believed, yet the

principles are identical. Timely decisions, communicated clearly, using modern technology to seize the advantage. The Dowding system is alive in the UK Joint Force Air Component and is ready to deliver Air C2 worldwide. In a final reflection of history repeating itself, the UK JFAC will soon fall under the historical 11 Group. 11 Group will be dusting off its colours and stood up in November as the Multi-Domain Operations Group. An important piece of our national history, rekindled to shape our future.

Flt Lt Adam KingUK JFAC

SO3 Information Operations

“THE C2 BEHIND THE FEW” – THE UK JOINT FORCE AIR COMPONENT VISIT BENTLEY PRIORY AND BATTLE OF BRITAIN BUNKER

Halloween murder mystery.

Halloween murder mystery.

Charity Wax.

Halloween Spinning.

Charity wax.

“

GORDON’S SCHOOL

Years 7, 9 and 12 boarding places available from £5,378 per term.

www.gordons.school

Ranked in the top 1% of all schools in England and Wales over the past 3 years at A Level.

BOARDING IN SURREY

Press ReleaseThe idea of sending their children to boarding school was an anathema for the Francis family – why would you want to send your kids away?

“My family were horrified”, admits Kristin Francis, adding “coming from Norway, which doesn’t have boarding schools and knowing very few people that had been to one, I completely abhorred the idea”.

But when she and her husband Steven a Colonel in the Royal Marines talked to other military families who had taken the plunge, the Francis’ began to look more carefully.

They decided that rather than their children having the upheaval of changing schools every time he was posted to another part of the country or abroad, they should be sent toa boarding school.

They settled on Gordon’s School, a co-educational, state boarding school in Woking, Surrey.

“In our circumstances it was the right thing to do and so it was proved. It was the best decision” recalled Colonel Francis.

He was posted to Afghanistan and he and his wife also spent two years in Pakistan. While it was expected they would move around with his job, they found it comforting that their children would not have to do so too.

“One thing you want to be assured of is that you kids have continuity and support. The last thing my son would have been able to cope with was moving from school to school. It would have undermined his confidence”, said Col Francis.

For many of the children from families in the Services, Gordon’s has been their first ‘constant’ after a life of moving schools and homes in line with their parents’ postings around the world. It is also a haven from the worry of a parent involved in action.Military families are given priority over others when applying for a place and over 50 per cent of the Residential Boarders at the school are from a service family.

Gordon’s employs counsellors for them and tutors to plug any gaps in their education. The success of these measures is illustrated by the statistics which show Gordon’s in the top one per cent of schools in the country for progress at GCSE and A-Level, earning it the reputation as one of the top performing secondary schools in England.

The Francis’ chose Gordon’s for its location – close to major routes across the country as well as Heathrow Airport. There were family members living nearby too.

In addition, Mr Francis wanted a state boarding school reasoning that were he to leave the services and lose the education allowance, the fees (from £5,378 a term for residential boarding) would still be affordable.

“It was the whole philosophy too” said Mr Francis, “We liked the idea of a non-selective school with no airs or graces. We thought our children would feel more comfortable there.”

Originally built in 1885 by public subscription at the insistence of Queen Victoria, as a national memorial to General Charles Gordon, the school was opened as a home for ‘necessitous’ boys. The idea behind it being that the boys would be trained for civil and military life.

Today the ceremonial aspect very much remains. Each student is issued with ‘Blues’, their marching uniform. Students take part in drill practice every week and the school is the only one in England permitted to parade along Whitehall each year, a school tradition to commemorate the life of General Gordon.

All Year 10 students join the CCF (Navy, Army and Air Force) which many continue into Sixth Form, as well as completing their Gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards.

While the ceremonial side of Gordon’s was incidental to their choice of school, Mr Francis confided: “It was the icing on the cake. The extra bit of uniqueness and character and part of the charm of the school”.When 18 year old Hannah arrived seven years ago her brother was already boarding at Gordon’s.

“I loved it ever since I got there. Living with my friends and being in the environment of staying with them all the time – it was like a big sleepover”.

While enjoying the activities and events put on by her House Parents, Colin and Sue Broughton during the weekends,

Hannah said what she will look back on is the friends she made: “My best friend is like a sister. We have lived in a room together for the past seven years.”

“Boarding is definitely home from home. There is a difference to home but it [Gordon’s] felt like home because I lived there most of the time. It’s nice to have two places where you feel like that”

“It’s the community spirit and social side - living with friends. I love boarding school.

Now hoping to study economics at university, Hannah says she is better prepared for university life after boarding: “Washing, cooking – I know how to do it whereas a lot of people living at home will struggle”.

Kristin agrees: “I can see the benefits. They have become more independent. Compared to children at their primary school when mine started boarding school, there was a massive change in them.

They had much more confidence, and were able to have a conversation with an adult and not be shy.”Would they advise other service parents to send their children to a boarding school, “Absolutely!” says Mr Francis, adding “State boarding schools are the best kept secret in education”.

For more information contact: Sarah Griffin, Communications Officer - email: [email protected], telephone: 01276 858084 ex 2317 or direct line: 01276 859747Out of office hours: 07753258671

GORDON’S SCHOOL


T he Oppo Foundation is a charity the affords Service personnel support and guidance as they transition to civilian life. This challenging period often needs simple signposting or can involve greater support with ongoing illnesses or finding an area where service families can settle into with ease.

Mr Kayam Iqbal is a former RAF Medic who has initiated the

charity and through the ‘Changing Perceptions’ programme has drawn people from across diverse faiths, backgrounds, social standing and the Military to interact with each other using mediums like Sport and the Arts to facilitate dialog while having positive experiences.

The programme itself was the winner at the recent 3 Counties Radio Awards for Diversity and Equality.

If anyone is interested in getting involved with the project then please contact Flt Lt Gareth Davies, the Station Training Officer.

Photos below:Mr Iqbal and Flt Lt Davies with the Trophy and with the dignitaries from the 3 counties

(Bucks, Berks and Beds).Cha

rity THE OPPO FOUNDATION

RE-CYCLE, A CHARITY THAT GETS PEOPLE MOVING

T Stations across the RAF can at times be cluttered with unwanted items that get picked up at AFI’s or just simply become unsightly around where we live and work. One of the most common items to be discarded are bikes that ultimately get collected by the SWO and then scrapped when no claim on them has been made after a stipulated amount of time. I’ve always thought this to be a bit of a shame, being a bike enthusiast myself, I found re-cycle advertised at my local bike shop who does fantastic work:

‘Re-Cycle is a bicycle charity based in Colchester, Essex.Re-Cycle envisions a future where every person in Africa has access to quality, affordable, sustainable bike transport. Why bikes? Because bikes move lives forward.

For many people living in rural regions of developing countries, poverty is a daily struggle. When walking is the only mode of transport, it can

take hours just to get to a clean water source, school, work or the market. In the UK, millions of bikes are thrown away or lie unused in sheds. A good quality bike can change a person’s life, which is why we take donated bikes from the UK and send them to Africa where they reach people who really need them.

Re-Cycle has celebrating 2 key milestones this year – its 20th anniversary and sending 100,000 bikes to Africa. We thank everyone for their kind donations which continue to transform the lives of people in Africa.’

Flt Lt Davies, Mr Iqbal and the dignitaries from the 3 counties (Bucks, Berks and Beds). Mr Iqbal and Flt Lt Davies with the Trophy.

Convinced that this is a better way to dispose of the bikes the SWO collects and the ones

people I know no longer want, we engaged with the charity to come and collect what we could gather up. Over 50 bikes were either donated or collected so we have begun a relationship with the charity to visit every year to take what we have and put then to good use.

If you have any old bikes or bike parts (regardless of condition) then please let the Station Training Officer have then so that they can get a new lease of life.

Flt Lt Davies

Mr Iain Elder from the charity and Flt Lt Davies with the first van load of bikes donated by the RAF High Wycombe community.


R Every year, the RAF High Wycombe Station community raises thousands of pounds in support of the Station’s ‘core charities’ by holding fundraising events, dropping money in collection tins and through standing donations by each of the Messes. The RAF High Wycombe Station Charities Committee exists to coordinate all of this, selecting which charities to support for the year, carrying out the necessary administration and organising fundraising activities.

Last year, the Station supported 3 fantastic Service focused charities and over the course of the year donated £2,000 to each of them. These charities were:

The Forces Children’s Trust: www.forceschildrenstrust.org

Hounds for Heroes: www.houndsforheroes.com

Support our Soldiers: www.supportoursoldiers.org.uk

We are hoping to do much the same in 2019 supporting these fantastic causes:

The Horse Trust, Home of Rest for Horses is set in 200 acres of beautiful Chiltern countryside between High Wycombe and Aylesbury, just outside Princes Risborough. Our Home of Rest for Horses is at the heart of our charity. It is here that we care for over 130 retired and rescued horses, ponies and donkeys.

Visit us to see our retired working horses from the Police and Military who have spent a lifetime serving our country or communities, to the ponies who have helped improve the lives of disabled or disadvantaged children who have found sanctuary with us after suffering from cruelty or neglect.

The Oppo Foundation Changing Perceptions

Changing Perceptions seeks to bring people together from different groups through the medium of sport or the arts in order to allow entrenched views and misconceptions to evolve into a more informed, tolerant and fairer understanding of other groups within our society.

We have chosen sport or the arts because it is open to anyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, religion and ability.

Changing Perceptions is led by The OppO Foundation working with the MoD and local youth and faith communities.

The project is hosted by Kayam Iqbal, A former RAF Medic who provides opportunities for a cross section of the local High Wycombe community (made up of service personnel, veterans, reservists, members of youth groups and members of faith groups) to be invited to participate in a positive conversation to build understanding, challenge misconceptions and create long lasting beneficial relationships that they can then take back to their communities.

Flying Scholarships for Disabled People (FSDP)

is a UK charity based in Fairford, Gloucestershire, dedicated to helping disabled people or veterans to learn to fly a light aircraft. The stated purpose is to inspire disabled adults, building their confidence, self-esteem and aspirations through the sharing of life changing aviation experiences.[1]

The charity was founded in 1983 by Tim Prince and Paul Bowen of the Royal International Air Tattoo in the memory of Group Captain Sir Douglas Bader, the disabled wartime fighter ace who lost both his legs in an accident in 1931.

Over 400 disabled people have participated in the scholarship scheme, several are paraplegic, and others are disabled as a result, for example, of cerebral palsy, loss of limbs, rheumatoid arthritis, MS, ME, spina bifida, poliomyelitis or as a result of their Service.

Supported by donations and sponsorship, the charity typically provides about 12 scholarships a year. Many of the Scholars get to fly Solo, and some go on to take full licences.

If you’d like to be involved in this rewarding secondary duty with whatever spare time you might have, then we would very much like to hear from you.

We would also like to hear from anyone undertaking fundraising activities for any other charities; the Committee may be able to support you on your chosen charity journey with an ad hoc donation or practical assistance, you’ll also be helping us in collating our annual report on charitable activity across the Station.

If you would like any information or are interested in becoming involved, please contact the team via email at [email protected] or [email protected]

Flt Lt Davies

STATION CHARITIES COMMITTEE

or email: [email protected]

To advertise in the next

issue of this publication

Please contact Leah on

01536 334225


NEW HIGH WYCOMBE CARE HOME TO LOOK AFTER RAF VETERANS

• Care home for veterans opening in early 2019

• RAF Benevolent Fund gives £57,600 grant towards physiotherapy room fit-out

• Home will provide care for 74 residents and include a specialist 30-bed dementia wing

T he Royal Star & Garter Homes has thanked The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund after receiving a generous grant towards its new High Wycombe Home.

The Charity was given £57,600 from the RAFBF which is being used to fit-out its physiotherapy room in High Wycombe.

The Home, which is under construction and expected to welcome its first residents in early 2019, will provide care for military veterans living with disability or dementia.

The charity was formed in 1916 to care for disabled young men returning from the battlegrounds of the First World War. It has Homes in Solihull, West Midlands, and Surbiton, South West London.

High Wycombe was partly chosen as the location of the Charity’s new Home because of its close connections with the military, and in particular RAF High Wycombe and RAF Halton.

The Royal Star & Garter Homes has close links to several RAF organisations. The Royal Air Force Association and RAF military bands also support the Charity in various ways and their continued generosity helps to improve the lives of residents living in our Homes.

RAF Benevolent Fund Chief Executive David Murray said: “I am sincerely honoured, on behalf of the RAF Benevolent Fund, to be able to help

The Royal Star & Garter Homes during an important time in their history. The grant we have given ensures that the physiotherapy room is not only fit for purpose and fully equipped, but there to help residents in need of vital in-house therapy.

“As we look towards the RAFBF centenary in 2019 and seek to stand side by side with those in the RAF Family, we know that our enduring relationship with The Royal Star & Garter Homes will help us assist even more deserving beneficiaries – something that fills me with great pride.”

The Charity’s Chief Executive, Andy Cole: “Physiotherapy has been at the heart of our special care in The Royal Star & Garter Homes for over a century. It promotes fitness and wellbeing and addresses the impact of serious health conditions. This generous grant from the RAF Benevolent Fund will have a real impact on the residents who will live in our new High Wycombe Home. We look forward to supporting even more RAF veterans in the future.”

Once open, the £25 million High Wycombe Home will provide the Charity’s award-winning specialist nursing and therapeutic care for 74 residents and include a specialist dementia care wing for 30 residents.

The Home will create at least 140 new jobs, with registered nurses, care assistants, housekeepers and physiotherapists all sought for recruitment.

For further information please contact:

Goolistan CooperCommunications Officer

E: goolistan.cooper@ starandgarter.orgT: 0208 481 7669 / 07391 868796

Cally MaddenMarketing & Communications ManagerE: [email protected]: 020 8481 7692 / 07881 017299

About The Royal Star & Garter Homes:The Charity provides award-winning care for veterans and their partners who live with disability or dementia.

The Royal Star & Garter Homes is a charity founded in 1916 to care for the severely injured young men returning from the battlegrounds of the First World War. Today we provide specialist care to the whole military family in our friendly, state-of-the-art Homes. Disabled ex-Servicemen and women, and their spouses, can all benefit from our pioneering approach to nursing, dementia and therapeutic care.

We are in the process of building new Homes around the country to provide specialist nursing care for disabled ex-Service people in the best modern surroundings, including dementia care facilities to address this growing need. The Charity has award-winning Homes in Solihull, West Midlands, and Surbiton, Surrey, which also enables the Charity to offer interim care for young disabled Service personnel. Following the successes of the first two Homes, a third Home in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, is being built, with a planned opening in 2018.

We are proud to have enjoyed Royal patronage since our foundation, including that of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II from 1953 to the present day.

Twitter: @starandgarter

Facebook:facebook.com/starandgarter

Website:www.starandgarter.org

org

IMAGES OF THE FIRST WORLD WAR: VETERANS’ CHARITY REMEMBERS THOSE WHO FOUGHT

A Charity that cares for ex-Servicemen and women and their partners living with disability or dementia has launched its annual Remembrance campaign to mark the upcoming Armistice centenary.

RSGH Remembers features staff, volunteers and residents from The Royal Star & Garter Homes holding photographs or medals of relatives who fought in the First World War.The haunting black and white images, and accompanying videos, acts as a reminder of the sacrifices made by loved

E x-Servicemen and women at The Royal Star & Garter Home in Solihull have painted poppies on 100 pebbles ahead of the Armistice centenary.

The poppy pebbles will be placed at a Tudor Grange Park nearby park by the veteran residents on Tuesday, 6 November, to mark 100 years since the end of the First World War.

The decision to use pebbles was made to tie-in with film director Danny Boyle’s Pages of the Sea project, which will see portraits of people who served in the 1914-1918 conflict drawn on the sand at selected beaches, before being washed away by the sea.

The Royal Star & Garter Homes is a charity founded in 1916 to care for the severely injured young men returning from the battlegrounds of the First World War.

Charlie Wilson, Activity & Volunteer Manager at the Home in Solihull, said: “It wasn’t practical to get our residents

VETERANS’ PAINTED POPPIES TRIBUTE

AHEAD OF ARMISTICE CENTENARY


F rom 29 November, all RAF personnel – regular and reserve – will be able to access free mindfulness training thanks to the RAF’s leading welfare charity, the RAF Benevolent Fund.

Personnel will be able to sign up to use Headspace, an online app, and be given full access to all its packages for six months, with the aim of encouraging them to practise mindfulness for one 10-minute session each day.

The app takes users through a number of questions to establish the goals they are hoping to reach with meditation, such as better sleep or improved focus. It also includes sessions tailored for use at particular times of day like morning, or evening, or while running, commuting or even on holiday.

Air Commodore Paul Hughesdon, Director of Welfare and Policy at the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: “The pilot for this scheme was incredibly successful. Initially we hoped 250 people would sign up but within two weeks

all these access codes had been given out, so we extended the numbers to add another 100 in.

“This clearly shows an appetite and a need for such a scheme within the Royal Air Force. As the RAF’s oldest friend and having stood side by side with the Service for almost 100 years, the Fund understands only too well the stresses and strains an RAF career can have on day-to-day life for serving personnel.

“We hope Headspace will help servicemen and women find a few moments of quiet to focus on their mental wellbeing each day. I have used the app and it really does have an increasingly positive effect as you progress

through the sessions. OK, so finding 10 minutes every day takes a bit of practice, but it is not that long and the meditations really do help to improve mental wellbeing.”

From the trial, nine out of 10 of those asked said Headspace had a positive impact on their wellbeing and they would like to continue using it. A further 97% said they found Headspace easy or very easy overall, while 98% said they would recommend it to a colleague.

The scheme is accessible for all RAF personnel from 29 November; to register your interest simply email [email protected]

MINDFULNESS PILOT TO BE EXTENDED FOR ALL RAF PERSONNEL

ones as we approach 100 years since the end of the First World War. It is being supported with the hashtag #RSGHremembers

It highlights how closely linked we still are to the four-year conflict, despite it ending a century ago.

The Royal Star & Garter Homes was founded in 1916 to care for the severely injured young men returning from the battlegrounds of the First World War. Over a century later it is still caring for the nation’s military family from its award-winning homes in Surbiton, South West London, and Solihull, West Midlands, with a new Home opening in High Wycombe in 2019.

to one of the Pages of the Sea beaches, so we painted these pebbles in a bid to bring the project to the Home. The residents were really keen to take part and use this as a way to mark a special Armistice Day. It’s a lovely idea.”

In the days leading up to Armistice Day, residents of The Royal Star & Garter Home in Monkspath Hall Road have been watching a series of films and documentaries marking the end of the First World War. Some residents have also visited the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.

In October, the Not Forgotten Association came to the Home and entertained residents with its production of Keep The Fires Burning, a tribute to the centenary of the end of The First World War.

On 11 November, representatives from the Home will attend the local Remembrance service in Solihull, while a separate service will take place at the Home featuring a standard bearer, bugler, pianist and two-minute silence.

Over a century after its founding, the Charity is still caring for the nation’s military family from its award-winning homes in Surbiton, South West London, and Solihull, with a new Home opening in High Wycombe in 2019.

Among those featured in the campaign is resident Ned, who served in the Army during the Second World War. His father James was badly injured and lost a leg during the First World War.

Also featured is Royal Star & Garter Homes volunteer Rosemary Lever. Her grandfather survived the First World War despite fighting in the Battles of Messines and Loos and being wounded by enemy gunfire.

And Cally Madden, who works at The Royal Star & Garter Homes, is seen holding a photo of her great grand uncle Frank, who died in Gallipoli.The Charity’s Chief Executive, Andy Cole, also features in the

campaign, holding a photo of his grandfather. He said: “As we approach 100 years since the end of the First World War, we remain indelibly linked to the conflict from which the Charity was founded. It was poignant that members of The Royal Star & Garter Homes family have been remembering their relatives who served between 1914 and 1918.”

Residents at the Homes have been taking part in a series of activities and events to mark the Armistice centenary.

In Surbiton, some Second World War veterans will attend the Cenotaph Parade in Whitehall, London on 11 November. Remembrance services will also take place at the Homes, while representatives from the Charity will attend local services.

RAF BENEVOLENT FUND LAUNCHES MULTI-MILLION POUND SUPPORT TO ENHANCE MENTAL WELLBEING AND COMBAT ISOLATION AMONG RAF PERSONNEL

N ew initiatives developed after research identifies loneliness and social isolation as top issues facing RAF. A new report from the Royal

the magazine of raf high wycombe issue 1 2019 winter 2015€¦ · the views expressed by the...

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