RECENT NEWS: 2023
17th April 2023
Spring Art Exhibition: TOMORROW
Our Spring Art Exhibition is almost here!
Our Private View is tomorrow, from 17:00-19:00.
Have you booked your free ticket yet?
SPRING ART EXHIBITION
We’re delighted to be exhibiting a wide range of artworks in our Spring exhibition. The majority of our selected artists have never exhibited at Bedford House before, and range from first time exhibitors, to highly established professionals. We’re proud to be providing a platform to those new to the game, alongside those with many prestigious credits.
Come along to see the ingeniously bold paintings of Claudio Villafane, the beautifully abstract mixed media of Nadia Thompson, to the masterful ceramics of Henrietta MacPhee. Works exhibited range from experimental film by Philip Spooner, to a wooden, 3D architectural model by Fintan Kealy.
If this wasn’t exciting enough, there’ll be wine and cake, among other refreshments, and the opportunity to meet the artists.
BOOK YOUR FREE TICKET You can reserve your free spot here.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Spring Art Exhibition - Private View 18th April 17:00-19:00 book here!
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here!
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30 - donation based
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30 - donation based
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Bedford House Gardeners - 1st Thursday and 3rd Wednesday of the Month - FREE!
13th April 2023
POSTPONED: Sunday Social
Unfortunately, we are having to postpone our Sunday Social on the 16th April due to unforeseen circumstances.
Please look out for details regarding rescheduling.
We hope instead you’ll be able to join us for the Private View of our Spring Art Exhibition, from 17:00-19:00 on the 18th April. Book your free spot here.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Community Gardeners Launch Event - 12th April 10:00-13:00
Spring Art Exhibition - Private View 18th April 17:00-19:00 book here!
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!)
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30 - donation based
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30 - donation based
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Bedford House Gardeners - 1st Thursday and 3rd Wednesday of the Month - FREE!
13th April 2023
Moving with Mindfulness
Join us for our next social THIS SUNDAY!
Sunday Social: Moving with Mindfulness 16th April 14:00-16:30
WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR?
Movement is a wonderful way to improve our physical health, but what about our mental wellbeing?
Join Yoga tutor Kim Doyle, musical duo Darklights, and special guest Jade Oni for an afternoon of gentle exercise, mindfulness, dance, and of course music!
We’ll have BHCA staff member Clare interviewing our guests, and our experts will be leading demonstrations in yoga and dance. We’ll be exploring how to make our everyday lives more mindful, how to use these practices at home, and more.
This event is free to attend, thanks to the generous support of Find Your Active.
HOW DO I ENROL? Book your free space here.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30 - donation based
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30 - donation based
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Bedford House Gardeners - 1st Thursday and 3rd Wednesday of the Month - FREE! (COMMUNITY GARDEN LAUNCH EVENT 12TH APRIL 10:00-13:00)
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Community Gardeners Launch Event - 12th April 10:00-13:00
Sunday Social: Moving with Mindfulness - FREE! 16th April book here! -
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!)
11th April 2023
Don’t forget tomorrow
OUR LAUNCH EVENT IS TOMORROW!
We’re launching our Community Garden Project tomorrow. Join us from 10:00-13:00 to have your say.
WHY?
We believe Buckhurst Hill deserves a Community Garden.
You shouldn’t have to have a garden to be able to enjoy nature, get your green fingers on, and have access to fresh herbs, fruits and vegetables.
WHAT’S A COMMUNITY GARDEN?
Our Community Garden will be planted, harvested, and eaten by our community. You’ll be able to plant-your-own, pick-your-own, and eat-your-own. If you haven’t been involved in the gardening itself, all we ask for is a donation on a pay-what-you-can basis.
OUR LAUNCH EVENT
This garden is for everyone, so we want to hear from you! If you want a say in how our Community Garden is run, what gets planted and when, come along to our launch event. We’ll be planning the Summer ahead and getting to know one another over a coffee or two. We’ll also be getting stuck into some gardening! Our resident expert Caroline will be leading us, so don’t worry if you’ve never got your hands muddy before.
Join us from 10:00-13:00 on the 12th April in our garden.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30 - donation based
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30 - donation based
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Bedford House Gardeners - 1st Thursday and 3rd Wednesday of the Month - FREE! (COMMUNITY GARDEN LAUNCH EVENT 12TH APRIL 10:00-13:00)
7th April 2023
Spring Art Exhibition: Private View
Our Spring Art Exhibition is almost here!
Our Private View is tomorrow, from 17:00-19:00.
Have you booked your free ticket yet?
SPRING ART EXHIBITION
We’re delighted to be exhibiting a wide range of artworks in our Spring exhibition. The majority of our selected artists have never exhibited at Bedford House before, and range from first time exhibitors, to highly established professionals. We’re proud to be providing a platform to those new to the game, alongside those with many prestigious credits.
Come along to see the ingeniously bold paintings of Claudio Villafane, the beautifully abstract mixed media of Nadia Thompson, to the masterful ceramics of Henrietta MacPhee. Works exhibited range from experimental film by Philip Spooner, to a wooden, 3D architectural model by Fintan Kealy.
If this wasn’t exciting enough, there’ll be wine and cake, among other refreshments, and the opportunity to meet the artists.
BOOK YOUR FREE TICKET You can reserve your free spot here.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Spring Art Exhibition - Private View 18th April 17:00-19:00 book here!
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here!
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30 - donation based
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30 - donation based
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Bedford House Gardeners - 1st Thursday and 3rd Wednesday of the Month - FREE!
5th April 2023
Spotlight on: Sculpture & Pottery
Want to get stuck into some clay?
Join Esther Neslen’s Sculpture and Pottery course!
SCULPTURE & POTTERY
Learn the basic techniques of coiling and pinching, slab work, modelling, carving and throwing on the wheel as well as exploring a variety of methods in 3D sculpture in a relaxed and informal class. You will also learn how to apply materials and techniques to decorate your finished work using slip, glazes and oxides. Experienced students are encouraged to develop more advanced skills.
READ ALL ABOUT IT!
One of Esther’s students Allan was interviewed for Ceramics Today. Want to hear what an amazing form of expression ceramics can be for the visually impaired? Read about it here.
“Pottery really lends itself to someone who is blind or has a severe sight loss with its tactile nature and its form.”
“A few years ago it was out of bounds and look at me now. Still the best afternoon of my week and where I am at my happiest.”
WHEN?
This course takes place on Mondays 19:15-21:15, Tuesdays 10:00-12:30, and Thursdays 13:30-16:30.
HOW DO I ENROL?
Join our Monday class here. Join our Tuesday course here. Join our Thursday course here.
COMMUNITY COURSES
House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30 - donation based
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30 - donation based
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Bedford House Gardeners - 1st Thursday and 3rd Wednesday of the Month - FREE! (COMMUNITY GARDEN LAUNCH EVENT 12TH APRIL 10:00-13:00)
3rd April 2023
New Pilates course!
Want to try Pilates for the first time?
The wonderful Belinda Payne now offers a gentle, beginners option!
WHAT IS PILATES?
Pilates is a gentle method of exercise to strengthen and lengthen the muscles and improve posture.
Regular classes aim to give you a stronger, more flexible, balanced body and a sense of inner calmness. Pilates is an exercise system designed in the 20th century by Joseph Pilates.
WHEN?
Gentle Beginners Pilates is on Fridays from 11:15-12:15. Intermediate Pilates is on Fridays from 9:45-11:00.
HOW MUCH?
Each course lasts 11 weeks and costs £119. That's only £10.80 a session!
HOW DO I ENROL?
Join Gentle Beginners Pilates here.
Join Intermediate Pilates here.
31st March 2023
Community Garden Project
Bedford House Gardeners
A Community Garden Project
We believe Buckhurst Hill deserves a Community Garden.
You shouldn’t have to have a garden to be able to enjoy nature, get your green fingers on, and have access to fresh herbs, fruits and vegetables!
WHAT’S A COMMUNITY GARDEN?
Our Community Garden will be planted, harvested, and eaten by our community. You’ll be able to plant-your-own, pick-your-own, and eat-your-own. If you haven’t been involved in the gardening itself, all we ask for is a donation on a pay-what-you-can basis.
OUR LAUNCH EVENT
This garden is for everyone, so we want to hear from you! If you want a say in how our Community Garden is run, what gets planted and when, come along to our launch event. We’ll be planning the Summer ahead and getting to know one another and sharing our skills over a coffee or two. We’ll also be getting stuck into some gardening! Our resident expert Caroline will be leading us, so don’t worry if you’ve never got your hands muddy before.
Bring out your inner Monty Don!
Join us from 10:00-13:00 on the 12th April in our garden.
BRING YOUR OWN CUTTINGS
Want to share a piece of your garden?
Bring your own cutting or seedling, and be a part of Bedford House’s garden.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30 - donation based
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30 - donation based
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Bedford House Gardeners - 1st Thursday and 3rd Wednesday of the Month - FREE! (COMMUNITY GARDEN LAUNCH EVENT 12TH APRIL 10:00-13:00)
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Garden Obelisk Workshop 26th March book here!
Managing Diabetes 27th March book here! - FREE!
Sunday Social: Moving with Mindfulness - FREE! 16th April book here! -
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!)
28th March 2023
Let’s celebrate!
Our 2023 so far…
2023 has been a year of many developments for Bedford House. It’s time to celebrate them!
COMMUNITY COURSES
We launched our Community Courses!
Over 125 people have benefitted from attending Community Courses! These courses have been free to attend, thanks to the generous support of Find Your Active, Michael Luper, Jo Brunt, Rachel Newby, The Essex County Council Community Winter Warmth and Welcome Fund, and all the staff at Bedford House.
Community Courses are designed to widen participation, and bring our community closer together. We’re so proud to have had four regular groups this year, and hope to run more in the future.
WE WENT DIGITAL!
The biggest change we’ve made this year is going digital. Our online enrolment system is now live, and all courses, workshops and events can be booked online. We’re delighted to have made this leap into the future!
WE PARTIED ON SUNDAYS
We launched our Sunday Socials!
We’ve enjoyed our Movement series, supported by Find Your Active. We’ve tried out Tai Chi, Ballet, Contemporary and Seated Dance, Pilates and Yoga! We’ve made new friends over tea and coffee, and listened to interviews from our insightful tutors.
Thank you to all who have attended a Sunday Social so far, and thank you to Rachel Newby, Richard Edwards, Belinda Payne, Kim Doyle, Darklights and all the BHCA staff members for making it happen!
FROM BRISTOL OLD VIC TO BEDFORD HOUSE…
We were lucky enough to host Coin Toss Collective for an open dress run of their show FREAK OUT!, which explored ideas of home and coastal erosion. FREAK OUT! went on to be nominated for the Show of the Week Award by Vault Festival, and received 4 and 5 star reviews.
Would you like to see more live performance at Bedford House?
WE’RE IN PRINT!
Buckhurst Hill was shortlisted as one of the Best Places to Live 2023 in The Times! We’re proud to contribute to Buckhurst Hill’s cultural identity and community spirit.
Our very own trustee and student Allan Mabert was featured in Ceramics Today! This inspiring article details how joining Esther Neslen’s Sculpture and Pottery course has been the perfect vehicle for self expression for visually impaired people. We’re so inspired by Allan’s story, and hope Bedford House can be a home for more disabled artists.
“A few years ago it was out of bounds and look at me now. Still the best afternoon of my week and where I am at my happiest.”
WHAT’S NEXT?
We’ve got plenty of exciting things coming up next!
· Our next Sunday Social is ‘Moving with Mindfulness’, where we will be joined by yoga tutor Kim Doyle and special guests.
· Our Community Garden Project has its launch event on the 12th April.
· We’ll be joined by Axel Krogness for a Classical Guitar Concert on the 14th May.
· We’ll be launching our ‘Hop On’ scheme, where members can utilise last minute cancellations and free spaces by joining classes for one-off sessions for a small fee.
SUPPORT BEDFORD HOUSE
This year we have been able to continue to subsidise all courses by 25-30% by generating funds in other ways such as through Space hire.
If you can, please make a donation to ensure the long term sustainability of Bedford House so that we can continue to support the local community, and/or continue to shop in our Pop-Up shop where 100% of sales go to Bedford House. We need to generate £50,000 in subsidies every year to enable us to support the community by maintaining low course fees.
You can also support Bedford House for FREE by signing up to the ‘Give as you Live’ portal and selecting Bedford House as your chosen charity. When you shop online through the portal the supplier (and not you) automatically makes a donation to Bedford House. We will shortly provide more information about this both on the website and in mailings. Suppliers include Waitrose, John Lewis, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, and hundreds of other companies including holiday providers.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30 - donation based
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30 - donation based
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Bedford House Gardeners - 1st Thursday and 3rd Wednesday of the Month - FREE! (COMMUNITY GARDEN LAUNCH EVENT 12TH APRIL 10:00-13:00)
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Sunday Social: Moving with Mindfulness - FREE! 16th April book here! -
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!)
26th March 2023
TOMORROW!
Managing Diabetes
LAST CHANCE TO JOIN US TOMORROW!
Another important wellbeing course at Bedford House!
LIVE LIFE TO THE FULL
At Bedford House we are committed to offering important events that prioritise the wellbeing of our members. Our ‘Live Life to the Full’ series of wellbeing talks continues with Managing Diabetes.
MANAGING DIABETES
Join Dr Enham Khan and Dr Kelly Patrick to demystify all the complex information surrounding diabetes. Diabetes is a serious condition where your blood glucose level is too high. There are two main types, Type 1 and Type 2. They're different conditions, but they’re both serious. Non-genetic Diabetes is preventable; learn how with this talk.
WHO WILL BE SPEAKING?
Dr Enam Khan has been working as a Specialty Doctor at St Clare Hospice since 2013. Besides providing direct clinical care to the patients with palliative care needs, he is very passionate about teaching and training of the junior doctors and other professionals in the community. He has been involved in different projects in the community to widening horizons of the palliative care and improve access to the hospice services.
Dr Kel Patrick is currently a GPST2 (GP trainee) working within community palliative care at St Clare hospice. Prior to this he has garnered experience working at Princess Alexandra hospital as well as within GP surgeries across Harlow. Dr Patrick is keen answer any questions you may have!
HOW DO I ENROL?
You can book your free space online here, or alternatively fill out the enrolment forms below and return them to the office.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30 - donation based
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30 - donation based
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Guided Gardening - 1st Thursday and 3rd Wednesday of the Month - FREE!
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Managing Diabetes 27th March book here! - FREE!
Sunday Social: Moving with Mindfulness - FREE! 16th April book here! -
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!)
25th March 2023
From Classical Guitar to Yoga…
What’s on at Bedford House this Spring?
We’ve got several events coming up at BHCA. Don’t forget our Garden Obelisk Workshop TOMORROW, and Managing Diabetes on MONDAY!
MOVING WITH MINDFULNESS
Movement is a wonderful way to improve our physical health, but what about our mental wellbeing?
Join Yoga tutor Kim Doyle, Darklights, and special guests for an afternoon of gentle exercise, mindfulness, and of course music!
We’ll have BHCA staff member Clare interviewing our guests, and our experts will be leading demonstrations. We’ll be exploring how to make our everyday lives more mindful, how to use Yoga at home, and more.
This event is free to attend, thanks to the generous support of Find Your Active.
Book your free space here.
CLASSICAL GUITAR CONCERT
On Sunday14th May we will be joined by Classical guitarist Axel Krogness, who’s repertoire will range from Michael Tippett, Wilhelm Peterson Berger, to his own compositions.
Each piece will be accompanied by a complementary painting and a poem, creating a multi-faceted performance which allows for a multitude of perspectives. These works range from Lorca’s poetry, to Carl Larsson’s artwork.
Axel is a Swedish classical guitarist living in London. He completed a master's degree in classical guitar performance from the Royal College of Music in London, a Bachelor's degree from the Malmö Academy of Music in Sweden and Conservatorio Superior de Música in Córdoba.
He has performed extensively throughout Europe, including concerts in Sweden, Denmark, Spain and in the UK. During the last couple of years Axel has participated in masterclasses with renowned classical guitarists including Marcin Dylla, Zoran Dukic, Alvaro Pierri, John Mills, Laura Snowden and Mats Bergström.
Early bird tickets for this event are discounted to £7.50 (using code AXEL), and can be purchased online at this link, over the phone, or in person. After April 14th, tickets will be £10.
See Axel in action here!
COMMUNITY COURSES
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30 - donation based
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30 - donation based
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Guided Gardening - 1st Thursday and 3rd Wednesday of the Month - FREE!
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Garden Obelisk Workshop 26th March book here!
Managing Diabetes 27th March book here! - FREE!
Sunday Social: Moving with Mindfulness - FREE! 16th April book here! -
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!)
23rd March 2023
Upcoming workshops & talks
Workshops & Wellbeing Talks
Don’t miss these!
GARDEN OBELISK WORKSHOP
Want to create a willow masterpiece for your garden?
Bend and weave willow to make a free-standing obelisk to support climbing plants such as sweet peas or runner beans, or a smaller structure for tall plants such as Michaelmas daisies to grow through.
Suitable for those new to willow weaving and those with some experience.
What will I learn?
-The characteristics of willow as a material for sculpture
-Weaving and bending techniques to make two small items as an introduction
-Brief discussion of weaving options and structure design
-How to make a 3D structure of your own design for your garden
-Advice available on living willow structures
What do I need to bring?
-A pair of secateurs
-Work gloves if preferred
-A suitable vehicle to transport your masterpiece home
-Creative enthusiasm!
The fee for this workshop is £79 and can be booked here!
MANAGING DIABETES
This free wellbeing talk is a unique opportunity to ask important questions outside of the consultation room.
Join Dr Enham Khan and Dr Kelly Patrick to demystify all the complex information surrounding diabetes. Diabetes is a serious condition where your blood glucose level is too high. There are two main types, Type 1 and Type 2. They're different conditions, but they’re both serious. Non-genetic Diabetes is preventable; learn how with this talk.
Book this FREE talk here.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30 - donation based
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30 - donation based
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Guided Gardening - 1st Thursday and 3rd Wednesday of the Month - FREE!
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Garden Obelisk Workshop 26th March book here!
Managing Diabetes 27th March book here! - FREE!
Sunday Social: Moving with Mindfulness - FREE! 16th April book here! -
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!)
21st March 2023
Artist Callout
Bedford House Spring Exhibition
Submissions for our next exhibition are now open!
WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR?
We are accepting submissions from artists from any region to be exhibited at Bedford House. This exhibition has no specific theme, and we are excited to see a range of styles and forms. We are especially interested in hearing from emerging artists who have never exhibited at Bedford House before.
We are looking for artworks in any medium. Multi-disciplinary submissions and live-art are welcomed. You are welcome to speak to Lykke or Clare prior to applying about how your artwork would be displayed.
HOW TO SUBMIT
Please send a digital copy of your artwork to Clare on admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk. You may send this as a photo (no larger than 10MB) or as a link to a sharing platform. Please use the subject line ‘FAO Clare: Spring Art Exhibition Submission’ in your email. Please indicate the dimensions of your piece(s). If your artwork is not visual, please send in a description, or video or sound files as appropriate.
Please do not send in physical artwork until you have been confirmed as an exhibitor.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
If you are selected as an exhibitor, we will then be in contact to arrange the delivery of pieces. Artists must insure their artworks for the period they are exhibited at BHCA. Hanging will be immediately before a show (often the weekend before as the premises are in use every day for educational purposes). A Private View will be advertised and held at BHCA at a date set by BHCA and at no cost to exhibiting artists. Artists will be invited to be interviewed at our Private View, but this is voluntary.
DATES AND DEADLINES
Deadline for submissions: 3rd April
Selection announced by 10th April Private View: 10th May
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
As a charity, BHCA are unable to offer artists a fee for exhibiting, but there will be no cost to exhibiting artists to take part. A call to artists will normally be circulated approximately 2 months before a show. Selection will be confirmed approx. 1 month before a show. Hanging will be immediately before a show (often the weekend before as the premises are in use every day for educational purposes). A Private View will be advertised and held at BHCA at a date set by BHCA and at no cost to exhibiting artists. Agreed artworks must be delivered to BHCA by the artist at a time agreed with BHCA. Artists must insure their artworks for the period they are exhibited at BHCA. Artists to provide labels for artwork that can be displayed by the artworks and also in digital format for the catalogue. Artists to provide a brief promotional text such as biog about themselves and the artworks. Artists are invited to be the artist at a ‘meet the artist’ interview at the Private View (5-10 minutes). This is voluntary but it adds interest. BHCA expects exhibiting artists to promote the exhibition and Private View to their networks. BHCA will promote the exhibition and Private View widely.
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30 - donation based
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30 - donation based
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Guided Gardening - 1st Thursday and 3rd Wednesday of the Month - FREE!
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Garden Obelisk Workshop 26th March book here!
Managing Diabetes 27th March book here! - FREE!
Sunday Social: Moving with Mindfulness - FREE! 16th April book here! -
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!)
19th March 2023
PUBLIC BOOKING IS OPEN!
Dear Members and Friends,
PUBLIC BOOKING FOR TERM 3 IS NOW OPEN!
You are now able to book any course, workshop or event online! Our online system is new to us all, so your feedback is always welcome.
ONLINE ENROLMENT EXPLAINED
Our website now has a page entitled ‘Online Enrolment’. Here is where you can find all of our courses, workshops and events. As before, you must have a valid membership to access our courses. If you are not a current member, please select ‘Summer Membership’ as an add-on to your purchase.
Enrolling for a course is now much like making any purchase online, but if you need any assistance please don’t hesitate to contact Clare or Lisa on admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk.
MEMBERSHIP EXPLAINED
There are three different membership options. Annual Membership (£16) is required for courses from September - August. If you are enrolling for just Term 3, or the Summer School, you can purchase a Summer Membership (£8). Day memberships (£2.50) are required for one-off workshops and space hire.
Soon you will be able to sign up to a dedicated Annual Members Area, but this term to avoid current members overpaying, we will be implementing this later in the year from September.
Until then, new members for Term 3 must select the Summer Membership (£8) add-on to complete their purchase. If you do not have a valid membership you will not be able to attend your course.
Day memberships (£2.50) are required for workshops. Currently, these are included in the workshop fee when booking online. If you are a member you can contact the office for a discount code.
You do not need a paid membership to attend an event or community course, but you may be required to fill in forms during enrolment.
THANK YOU!
Thank you for supporting Bedford House through this transition to online enrolment. We appreciate your patience with any initial issues in this period of change.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30 - donation based
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30 - donation based
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Guided Gardening - 1st Thursday and 3rd Wednesday of the Month - FREE!
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Garden Obelisk Workshop 26th March book here!
Managing Diabetes 27th March book here! - FREE!
Sunday Social: Moving with Mindfulness - FREE! 16th April book here! -
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!)
17th March 2023
Managing Diabetes
Managing Diabetes
Another important wellbeing course at Bedford House
LIVE LIFE TO THE FULL
At Bedford House we are committed to offering important events that prioritise the wellbeing of our members. Our ‘Live Life to the Full’ series of wellbeing talks continues with Managing Diabetes.
MANAGING DIABETES
Join Dr Enham Khan and Dr Kelly Patrick to demystify all the complex information surrounding diabetes. Diabetes is a serious condition where your blood glucose level is too high. There are two main types, Type 1 and Type 2. They're different conditions, but they’re both serious. Non-genetic Diabetes is preventable; learn how with this talk.
WHO WILL BE SPEAKING?
Dr Enam Khan has been working as a Specialty Doctor at St Clare Hospice since 2013. Besides providing direct clinical care to the patients with palliative care needs, he is very passionate about teaching and training of the junior doctors and other professionals in the community. He has been involved in different projects in the community to widening horizons of the palliative care and improve access to the hospice services.
Dr Kel Patrick is currently a GPST2 (GP trainee) working within community palliative care at St Clare hospice. Prior to this he has garnered experience working at Princess Alexandra hospital as well as within GP surgeries across Harlow. Dr Patrick is keen answer any questions you may have!
HOW DO I ENROL?
You can book your free space online here, or alternatively fill out the enrolment forms below and return them to the office.
PUBLIC BOOKING OPENS SOON
Public booking will open for Term 3 on the 19th March. Enrolment will be available online, and in person.
Existing students can also enrol online and in person. Existing students can contact Clare or Lisa for a new booking link if they have lost the one that was sent to you previously.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30 - donation based
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30 - donation based
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15 - FREE until 30th April
Guided Gardening - 1st Thursday and 3rd Wednesday of the Month - FREE!
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Garden Obelisk Workshop 26th March book here!
Managing Diabetes 27th March book here! - FREE!
Sunday Social: Moving with Mindfulness - FREE! 16th April book here! -
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!)
16th March 2023
Priority Enrolment ends soon!
Priority Enrolment ends on Sunday!
Don’t forget to secure your space.
HAVE YOU ENROLLED YET?
On Sunday 19th March enrolment for Term 3 will be open to the public. You can join a course even if you haven’t attended for Term 1 or 2, subject to availability.
HOW DO I ENROL?
You can also now enrol online. If you are a current student, you will have received a priority booking link via email.
Once public booking is open, you will be able to join online as a member on our website, and enrol on any of our courses.
If you’d like to enrol in the usual way, you can fill out our enrolment forms below, and return these to the office. We will then take payment over the phone, in person, or via BACS.
I NEED HELP WITH ONLINE ENROLMENT
If you have any questions regarding online enrolment, or you’d like to request a help session, please contact Clare or Lisa by ringing the office or emailing admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk
COMMUNITY COURSES
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15
Bedford House Gardeners 1st Thursday and 3rd Wednesday of the Month
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Coin Toss Collective TODAY 6PM book here!
Garden Obelisk Workshop 26th March book here!
Managing Diabetes 27th March book here!
Sunday Social: Moving with Mindfulness 16th April book here!
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!)
15th March 2023
Coin Toss Collective arrive TOMORROW
Want to see a FREE performance fresh from Bristol Old Vic? Come along to their open dress run at 18:00.
FREAK OUT!
After a successful debut at Bristol Old Vic, Coin Toss Collective are bringing their show FREAK OUT! to VAULT Festival, 18th-19th March, Network Theatre, Waterloo, London. It is a play about coastal erosion, community and what home means to us. We’re lucky enough to be hosting Coin Toss Collective for an open dress run at Bedford House.
𝘞𝘦𝘭𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘗𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘴𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘥, 𝘢 𝘴𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘧𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢 𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘣𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘭𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘤𝘰𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘭 𝘦𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯. 𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘢 𝘴𝘶𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘢𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵, 𝘪𝘯 𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘴𝘦 𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘴, 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘰𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢 𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘥𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘢 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘳, 𝘥𝘪𝘧𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘵 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘶𝘢𝘭 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘧𝘢𝘤𝘦. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥𝘯’𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘢𝘸ay?
WHO ARE COIN TOSS COLLECTIVE?
Coin Toss Collective are an emerging company of nine joyfully chaotic theatre-makers formed in 2021 through Made in Bristol, a year-long theatre-making residency at the historic Bristol Old Vic theatre. They ‘coined’ their name in a fluke moment, when one of their members suggested that they decide by tossing a coin. They thought this reflected their collaborative, non-hierarchical approach to devising theatre - playful, endlessly curious, unconventional, and open to serendipitous moments that often take their work into unexpected territory.
HOW DO I BOOK?
You can book your FREE space via this link, or you can ring the office.
ONLINE ENROLMENT
We’re delighted to be launching online enrolment for Term 3. Watch out for an email with your priority booking link! If you haven’t received this yet, please contact Clare in the office. If you’d like to join a course for the first time, public booking will be live on the 19th March.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Coin Toss Collective 16th March book here!
Garden Obelisk Workshop 26th March book here!
Managing Diabetes 27th March book here!
Sunday Social: Moving with Mindfulness 16th April book here!
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!)
14th March 2023
Moving with Mindfulness
Join us for our next Sunday Social!
Moving with Mindfulness Sunday 16th April 14:00-16:30
MOVING WITH MINDFULNESS
Movement is a wonderful way to improve our physical health, but what about our mental wellbeing?
Join Yoga tutor Kim Doyle, Darklights, and special guests for an afternoon of gentle exercise, mindfulness, and of course music!
We’ll have BHCA staff member Clare interviewing our guests, and our experts will be leading demonstrations. We’ll be exploring how to make our everyday lives more mindful, how to use Yoga at home, and more.
This event is free to attend, thanks to the generous support of Find Your Active.
HOW DO I BOOK?
You can book your FREE space via this link, or you can ring the office.
ONLINE ENROLMENT
We’re delighted to be launching online enrolment for Term 3. Watch out for an email with your priority booking link! If you haven’t received this yet, please contact Clare in the office. If you’d like to join a course for the first time, public booking will be live on the 19th March.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Coin Toss Collective 16th March book here!
Garden Obelisk Workshop 26th March book here!
Managing Diabetes 27th March book here!
Sunday Social: Moving with Mindfulness 16th April book here!
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!)
11th March 2023
DON’T MISS THIS!
Join us for FREE from 14:00-16:30
The Joy of Movement with Belinda Payne and Rachel Newby
This free event is generously supported by Find Your Active.
THE JOY OF MOVEMENT
If dancing is associated with happiness, why isn’t exercise viewed in the same way? Join the ever-joyful Rachel Newby (Contemporary & Seated Dance) and the wonderfully talented Belinda Payne (Pilates & Ballet) and discover the joy of movement.
BHCA staff member Clare will be hosting the afternoon, and interviewing our wonderful tutors. We’ll have demonstrations in Pilates, ballet and dance, and we’ll be learning how to bring joy into the everyday!
We’ll also be having live music from Darklights (a BHCA favourite musical duo!) There’ll also be tea, coffee and cake!
So whether you’ve never attended a fitness class before, or you’re a seasoned dancer, this event is for you! We were delighted to have such a welcoming, comfortable environment at our last Sunday Social.
Join us to make new friends, get moving and enjoy the music!
HOW DO I BOOK?
You can book your FREE space via this link, or you can ring the office.
ONLINE ENROLMENT
We’re delighted to be launching online enrolment for Term 3. Watch out for an email with your priority booking link! If you haven’t received this yet, please contact Clare in the office. If you’d like to join a course for the first time, public booking will be live on the 19th March.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Sunday Social 12th March book here!
Coin Toss Collective 16th March book here!
Garden Obelisk Workshop 26th March book here!
Managing Diabetes 27th March book here!
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!)
8th March 2023
Coin Toss Collective presents…
FREAK OUT!
an exclusive open dress run at Bedford House
YOU ASKED… WE DELIVERED
Our annual survey revealed many of our members want to see theatre performances at Bedford House. So we’ve partnered with Coin Toss Collective to bring you an exclusive FREE open dress run of their new show ‘FREAK OUT!’.
Having debuted at Bristol Old Vic, the show is heading to London’s Vault Festival later this month. This will be a fantastic opportunity to see the process behind creating innovative theatre.
WHAT IS THE SHOW ABOUT?
Welcome to Portsford, a seaside town fighting a losing battle with coastal erosion. When a sudden announcement threatens to tear the community apart, in an attempt to raise spirits, everyone comes together for a night of drinking and dancing. But as the party becomes a pressure cooker, difficult conversations surrounding shared loss of home, and collective and individual responsibility rise to the surface. But wouldn’t you rather just dance the night away?
Inspired by the UK’s disappearing coastline and drawing on their research on affected communities in East Anglia, FREAK OUT! experiments with theatrical styles and genres, blending human stories with live art elements into an offbeat, high-energy cocktail of a show. Enjoy it while it lasts because things are about to get messy… literally.
WHEN AND WHERE?
This open dress run will be from 18:00-19:00 on Thursday 16th March in our hall.
HOW DO I BOOK?
You can book your FREE space via this link, or you can ring the office.
ONLINE ENROLMENT
We’re delighted to be launching online enrolment for Term 3. Watch out for an email with your priority booking link! If you haven’t received this yet, please contact Clare in the office. If you’d like to join a course for the first time, public booking will be live on the 19th March.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Coin Toss Collective: FREAK OUT! book here!
Sunday Social 12th March book here!
Garden Obelisk Workshop 26th March book here!
Managing Diabetes 27th March book here!
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!
8th March 2023
There’s still time to book our Garden Obelisk Workshop!
WHAT WILL I DO?
You’ll bend and weave willow to make a free-standing obelisk to support climbing plants such as sweet peas or runner beans, or a smaller structure for tall plants such as Michaelmas daisies to grow through.
This workshop is suitable for those new to willow weaving and those with some experience.
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
-The characristics of willow as a material for sculpture
-Weaving and bending techniques to make two small items as an introduction
-Brief discussion of weaving options and structure design
-How to make a 3D structure of your own design for your garden
-Advice available on living willow structures
WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?
A pair of secateurs
Work gloves if preferred
A suitable vehicle to transport your masterpiece home
Creative enthusiasm!
HOW DO I ATTEND?
The fee for this workshop is £79.
You can book your space online here. Note: this includes a £2.50 day membership. If you are already a member, please call or email the office for a discount code.
Alternatively, you can fill out the enrolment and membership forms below and return to the office.
WHEN IS IT?
This workshop is on Sunday 26th March from 10am - 5pm.
ENROLMENT FOR TERM THREE
We’re delighted to be launching online enrolment for Term 3. Watch out for an email with your priority booking link! If you haven’t received this yet, please contact Clare in the office. If you’d like to join a course for the first time, public booking will be live on the 19th March.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Sunday Social 12th March book here!
Garden Obelisk Workshop 26th March book here!
Managing Diabetes 27th March book here!
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!)
Keep an eye out for more workshops and courses to be announced soon!
6th March 2023
Another important wellbeing talk…
Join us for another important wellbeing talk at Bedford House.
Managing Diabetes with guest speakers Dr Enham Khan and Dr Kelly Patrick
WHAT CAN I EXPECT?
Join Dr Enham Khan and Dr Kelly Patrick to demystify all the complex information surrounding diabetes. Diabetes is a serious condition where your blood glucose level is too high. There are two main types, Type 1 and Type 2. They're different conditions, but they’re both serious. Non-genetic Diabetes is preventable; learn how with this talk.
You’ll have the unique opportunity to ask any questions you may have outside of the consultation room.
This talk will be from 11:00am on the 27th March.
HOW DO I BOOK?
You can book your FREE space via this link, or you can ring the office.
ONLINE ENROLMENT
We’re delighted to be launching online enrolment for Term 3. Watch out for an email with your priority booking link! If you haven’t received this yet, please contact Clare in the office. If you’d like to join a course for the first time, public booking will be live on the 19th March.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Sunday Social 12th March book here!
Garden Obelisk Workshop 26th March book here!
Managing Diabetes 27th March book here!
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!)
3rd March 2023
Sunday Social: The Joy of Movement
Don’t miss us this Sunday!
Join us for FREE from 14:00-16:30
The Joy of Movement with Belinda Payne and Rachel Newby
This free event is generously supported by Find Your Active.
THE JOY OF MOVEMENT
If dancing is associated with happiness, why isn’t exercise viewed in the same way? Join the ever-joyful Rachel Newby (Contemporary & Seated Dance) and the wonderfully talented Belinda Payne (Pilates & Ballet) and discover the joy of movement.
BHCA staff member Clare will be hosting the afternoon, and interviewing our wonderful tutors. We’ll have demonstrations in Pilates, ballet and dance, and we’ll be learning how to bring joy into the everyday!
We’ll also be having live music from Darklights (a BHCA favourite musical duo!) There’ll also be tea, coffee and cake!
So whether you’ve never attended a fitness class before, or you’re a seasoned dancer, this event is for you! We were delighted to have such a welcoming, comfortable environment at our last Sunday Social.
Join us to make new friends, get moving and enjoy the music!
HOW DO I BOOK?
You can book your FREE space via this link, or you can ring the office.
ONLINE ENROLMENT
We’re delighted to be launching online enrolment for Term 3. Watch out for an email with your priority booking link! If you haven’t received this yet, please contact Clare in the office. If you’d like to join a course for the first time, public booking will be live on the 19th March.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Sunday Social 12th March book here!
Coin Toss Collective 16th March book here!
Garden Obelisk Workshop 26th March book here!
Managing Diabetes 27th March book here!
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!)
1st March 2023
Spring is almost here!
The first signs of Spring are popping up at Bedford House!
Our garden is becoming more beautiful by the day.
What’s new this Spring at Bedford House?
NEW JEWELLERY SHOP
Need a gift for the fashion-lover in your life? Or maybe you need a statement necklace for a party. Come along to our new jewellery shop! You can find it on the first floor landing. Prices start from just £1!
GARDEN OBELISK WORKSHOP
Looking to decorate your garden this Spring? We’ve got the workshop for you! Learn to bend and weave willow to make a free-standing structure to support climbing plants. Join us on the 26th March and get weaving! Book your place here.
COMMUNITY COURSES & SOCIALS
Bedford House’s free offerings are growing by the day! We currently run four free groups, which run weekly.
Want to get moving? Join Contemporary Dance or Seated Dance. Looking to discover a new skill? Join Craft & a Cuppa. Want to learn something completely new? Join Resdiscovering Radio!
Our first Sunday Social was a huge success. We’re looking forward to our next free social on the 12th March, supported by Find Your Active.
CLASSICAL GUITAR CONCERT WITH AXEL KROGNESS
On the 14th May we’ll be joined by classical guitarist Axel Krogness, for an afternoon of music, paintings and poetry. For a 25% early bird discount, book before the 14th April! Book your tickets here.
ONLINE ENROLMENT
We’re delighted to be launching online enrolment for Term 3. Watch out for an email with your priority booking link! If you’d like to join a course for the first time, public booking will be live on the 19th March.
JOIN THE GARDENING VOLUNTEERS
How beautiful are our crocuses? If you’d like to try your hand at gardening, why not join our volunteering team? Connect with nature this Spring, make new friends, and do some gentle exercise. Find more information here.
ENROLMENT FOR TERM THREE
Priority Enrolment for current members for Term 3 is now open. This will close on the 19th March, when public booking will open.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Sunday Social 12th March
Garden Obelisk Workshop 26th March book here!
Managing Diabetes 27th March book here!
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!)
27th February 2023
New workshop: Garden Obelisks
We’ve got a new workshop!
Make your own Garden Obelisk!
WHAT WILL I DO?
You’ll bend and weave willow to make a free-standing obelisk to support climbing plants such as sweet peas or runner beans, or a smaller structure for tall plants such as Michaelmas daisies to grow through.
This workshop is suitable for those new to willow weaving and those with some experience.
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
-The characteristics of willow as a material for sculpture
-Weaving and bending techniques to make two small items as an introduction
-Brief discussion of weaving options and structure design
-How to make a 3D structure of your own design for your garden
-Advice available on living willow structures
WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?
A pair of secateurs
Work gloves if preferred
A suitable vehicle to transport your masterpiece home
Creative enthusiasm!
HOW DO I ATTEND?
The fee for this workshop is £79.
You can book your space online here. Note: this includes a £2.50 day membership. If you are already a member, please call or email the office for a discount code.
Alternatively, you can fill out the enrolment and membership forms below and return to the office.
WHEN IS IT?
This workshop is on Sunday 26th March from 10am - 5pm.
ENROLMENT FOR TERM THREE
Priority Enrolment for current members for Term 3 is now open. This will close on the 19th March, when public booking will open.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Sunday Social 12th March
Garden Obelisk Workshop 26th March book here!
Managing Diabetes 27th March book here!
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!)
Keep an eye out for more workshops and courses to be announced soon!
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding the above, please see our website for more information and feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668.
25th February 2023
Sunday Socials
Dear Members and Friends,
Our first Sunday Social was a huge success!
Thank you to all who attended, our wonderful tutors Rachel and Richard, and our special guest Amelie! Thank you to Find Your Active for supporting this event.
Didn’t make it this time? Check out our video here!
WHEN IS THE NEXT SOCIAL?
Our next Sunday Social is on the 12th March. Details regarding line-up and booking will be available soon.
CHECK OUT SOME PHOTOS!
FEEDBACK
Did you attend last Sunday? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Fill out our (short) survey here.
ENROLMENT FOR TERM THREE
Priority Enrolment for current members for Term 3 is now open. This will close on the 19th March, when public booking will open.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Sunday Social 12th March
Garden Obelisk Workshop 26th March book here!
Managing Diabetes 27th March book here!
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!
Keep an eye out for more workshops and courses to be announced soon!
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding the above, please see our website for more information and feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668.
24th February 2023
Afternoon Concert with Classical Guitarist Axel Krogness
Introducing… Axel Krogness!
Join us this May for a Classical guitar concert, which incorporates and creates a dialogue between art, music and poetry.
WHAT IS IT?
On Sunday 14th May we will be joined by Classical guitarist Axel Krogness, who’s repertoire will range from Michael Tippett, Wilhelm Peterson Berger, to his own compositions.
Each piece will be accompanied by a complementary painting and a poem, creating a multi-faceted performance which allows for a multitude of perspectives. These works range from Lorca’s poetry, to Carl Larsson’s artwork.
AXEL KROGNESS
Axel is a Swedish classical guitarist living in London. He completed a master's degree in classical guitar performance from the Royal College of Music in London, a Bachelor's degree from the Malmö Academy of Music in Sweden and Conservatorio Superior de Música in Córdoba.
He has performed extensively throughout Europe, including concerts in Sweden, Denmark, Spain and in the UK. During the last couple of years Axel has participated in masterclasses with renowned classical guitarists including Marcin Dylla, Zoran Dukic, Alvaro Pierri, John Mills, Laura Snowden and Mats Bergström.
HOW DO I ATTEND?
Early bird tickets for this event are discounted to £7.50 (using code AXEL), and can be purchased online at this link, over the phone, or in person. After April 14th, tickets will be £10.
WHEN IS IT?
This event is on Sunday 14th May, from 14:00-16:00. There will be an interval with refreshments available.
ENROLMENT FOR TERM THREE
Priority Enrolment for current members for Term 3 is now open. This will close on the 19th March, when public booking will open.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Sunday Social 12th March
Managing Diabetes 27th March book here!
Axel Krogness: Classical Guitar Concert 14th May book here! (USE DISCOUNT CODE AXEL FOR 25% OFF!)
22nd February 2023
Have you enrolled for Term 3?
Priority Booking is OPEN!
PRIORITY ENROLMENT
Priority Enrolment is for current students. Please ensure you book your space for Term 3 before the 19th March, to ensure your spot is secured. Please fill out your enrolment form and return to the office. You can take payment over the phone, in person or via BACS.
WHAT IF I WANT TO BOOK ONLINE?
Online enrolment will be available for all courses soon. Please look out for an email with your personal direct booking links in due course. If you’re not confident with computers, but would like to learn how to book online please contact Clare on admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk to express interest in an enrolment help session.
CAN I JOIN A COURSE FOR TERM 3?
You’re welcome to join a course for the first time in Term 3, if there are spaces available. Public booking for Term 3 will start on the 19th March. Online enrolment will be available for all courses publicly on our website.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Community Courses are FREE to attend!
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
Painting with Paper: Collage starts 23rd February - enrol online here!
Managing Diabetes 27th March FREE to book here!
Keep an eye out for more workshops and courses to be announced soon!
If you would like to enrol or have any questions regarding the above, please see our website for more information and feel free to email admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk or call 0208 504 6668.
21st February 2023
A Journey with Dementia
Join us for an important free wellbeing talk at Bedford House. This talk is not only for those with Dementia, but anyone looking to gain understanding of the condition faced by so many in our society.
It’s more important than ever to learn about this condition. 1 in 14 people over the age of 65 have dementia, and this increases to 1 in 6 people over the age of 80.
Join us on TOMORROW: 22nd February at 11am
WHO WILL BE SPEAKING?
We’ll be joined by Dr Qamar Abbas, Medical Director at St Clare Hospice, who will provide expert insight, advice and answer any questions you may have.
A JOURNEY WITH DEMENTIA
This talk follows a person’s typical journey from pre-diagnosis. There is so much information in the media and it may be difficult to know what is relevant.
His talk will be followed by a question-and-answer session. This is a unique opportunity to be able to ask a clinical specialist any questions you may have outside of a consultation room.
WHO IS IT FOR?
This talk is not only for people diagnosed with dementia. This talk is for the friends and loved ones who are supporting those with dementia, and for people who are currently unaffected by the condition. 1 in 14 people over the age of 65 have dementia, and this increases to 1 in 6 people over the age of 80. It is therefore important that we all learn about the journey, to ensure we can support and guide those around us.
This talk aims to demystify the sometimes contradictory information online, and provide a safe, comfortable environment to explore the challenges of dementia.
HOW DO I ATTEND?
You can either contact the office to book your free space, or enrol online.
17th February 2023
FREE event this Sunday!
Are you joining us on Sunday?
Sunday Social: Music & Movement 19th February 14:00-16:30
We’ve got live music, free dance and Tai Chi workshops, Q&As with our experts, and tea, coffee and cake!
WHAT’S HAPPENING?
This social will be focused around Music & Movement, hosted by BHCA staff member Clare Packham!
The wonderful Rachel Newby (Contemporary & Seated Dance) and Richard Edwards (Tai Chi & Qi Gong) will be leading demonstrations, and taking part in interviews with Clare! You’ll be able to ask them any burning questions you have, and learn all out their different art forms.
We’ll also be having live performances from Darklights (a BHCA favourite musical duo!) and Rachel herself, who will be dancing to the late Burt Bacharach’s Close to You. There’ll also be tea, coffee and cake!
So whether you’d rather dance in your chair, get up and try some Tai Chi, or sit down and enjoy the music, there’s something for everyone this Sunday at Bedford House.
This event is generously funded by Find Your Active.
HOW DO I ATTEND?
If you’d like to attend please book your FREE space online here. You can always reply to this email to RSVP if you’d prefer. You’re welcome to bring as many friends or family members as you wish!
13th February 2023
Not long until our Sunday Social…
Our first Sunday Social is fast approaching!
Have you booked your free space yet?
WHAT IS IT?
We will be showcasing our wonderful dance tutor Rachel Newby, and excellent Qi Gong & Tai Chi expert Richard Edwards! They’ll be joined by BHCA favourites Darklight who will be providing live music!
We’ll have BHCA staff member Clare Packham interviewing Rachel and Richard, and there’ll be an opportunity to ask any burning questions you have. Rachel will be telling us all about her experience with English National Ballet and how she works in our Contemporary and Seated Dance classes. Richard will be spilling all the beans on the art of Tai Chi and Qi Gong, and how beneficial it can be for your wellbeing.
Rachel and Richard will also be leading demonstrations in dance and Tai Chi. You can watch (or dance!) from your seat, or get up and join in! Try out something new with Richard & Rachel! There’ll also be a fantastic dance performance from Rachel.
There’ll also be refreshments available to purchase from our café!
WHEN IS IT?
Sunday 19th February from 14:00-16:30.
WHEN IS IT?
You can book using this link, or by contacting the office.
11th February 2023
February at Bedford House
We’ve had a wonderful start to 2023 here at Bedford House. We’ve been excited to launch our free Community Courses, Sunday Socials, and we’re looking forward to begin online enrolment.
Check out what’s been happening below!
ONLINE ENROLMENT
Behind the scenes at Bedford House, we’ve been developing online enrolment services. You are now able to enrol online for Sunday Socials and Wellbeing Talks. We are hoping to launch enrolment for all courses online very soon.
If you have any feedback on our new system, please do email Clare on admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk.
If you’re not confident on a computer but would like to migrate to online enrolment, we can help! Please email Clare on admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk to express interest in an enrolment help session.
WELLBEING TALKS
We’re pleased to announce our wellbeing talks are now free to attend. Join us for A Journey with Dementia and Managing Diabetes. Find our booking links below.
ANNUAL SURVEY
Thank you to all who filled out our annual survey. We’re pleased to share some of our feedback.
“Bedford House is an important resource for our community.” 96% of members scored 4 or 5.*
“I look forward to my weekly sessions at Bedford House.”
92% of members scored 4 or 5.*
Quotes from our members:
“I look forward to my weekly print sessions at Bedford House and enjoy experiencing the comradery of the group and the tuition which allows me to learn, and try out new print methods in a supportive environment.”
“High quality teaching in relaxed atmosphere at reasonable price. What more could you ask?”
We are also thrilled to announce the winner of our £30 voucher is Gill Sanders! Congratulations Gill!
*of members who responded to our survey.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Our Community Courses have been a great success. We’ve loved meeting new people who have never been to Bedford House before! If you’re looking for a free activity, join us for Craft & a Cuppa, Redisovering Radio, Seated Dance or Contemporary Dance!
SUNDAY SOCIALS
We’ve launched Sunday Socials! Our Sunday Socials will be different each month. However, they will always have an emphasis on fun, friendships and community. These will range from afternoon concerts and performances, tutor-led workshops, to themed community cafes. Our Sunday Socials will invariably involve live music, the opportunity to make new friends and stay active.
Join us for the first Sunday Social (Music & Movement) on the 19th February. Book your free space below.
PAINTING WITH PAPER: COLLAGE
We’ve got a new course beginning in February! Painting with Paper: Collage with Fran Colomb starts on the 23rd February. Join today to explore the joy of paper!
ENROLMENT FOR TERM THREE
Priority Enrolment for current members for Term 3 is now open. This will close on the 19th March, when public booking will open.
COMMUNITY COURSES
Community Courses are FREE to attend!
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa Mondays 10:30-12:30
Rediscovering Radio Fridays 14:00-15:30
Contemporary Dance Wednesdays 13:15-14:15
Seated Dance Thursdays 13:15-14:15
9th February 2023
Gifts for the art-lover in your life!
A spotlight on our eBay account!
We have a collection of rare and interesting art books. Whether you’re looking to treat yourself, or find the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for your art-loving significant other, we’ve got you covered!
WHAT BOOKS DO YOU HAVE?
From books on Degas to Lynn Chadwick, we’ve got a wide range. Books are added weekly, so keep checking back! See our eBay here.
7th February 2023
Free Wellbeing Talks
Our wellbeing talks are now free to attend!
Book your FREE space today for A Journey with Dementia, and Managing Diabetes
WHY WELLBEING TALKS?
Here at Bedford House, we are dedicated to providing important learning and experiences that positively contribute to the wellbeing of our members.
WHO IS WILL BE SPEAKING?
We’ll be joined by Dr Qamar Abbas, Medical Director at St Clare Hospice, who will provide expert insight, advice and answer any questions you may have.
A JOURNEY WITH DEMENTIA
This talk follows a person’s typical journey from pre-diagnosis. There is so much information in the media and it may be difficult to know what is relevant. His talk will be followed by a question-and-answer session. This is a unique opportunity to be able to ask a clinical specialist any questions you may have outside of a consultation room.
This talk is not only for people diagnosed with dementia. This talk is for the friends and loved ones who are supporting those with dementia, and for people who are currently unaffected by the condition. 1 in 14 people over the age of 65 have dementia, and this increases to 1 in 6 people over the age of 80. It is therefore important that we all learn about the journey, to ensure we can support and guide those around us.
This talk aims to demystify the sometimes contradictory information online, and provide a safe, comfortable environment to explore the challenges of dementia.
This talk is on the 22nd February, at 11:00.
MANAGING DIABETES
Join Dr Qamar Abbas to demystify all the complex information surrounding diabetes. Diabetes is a serious condition where your blood glucose level is too high. There are two main types, Type 1 and Type 2. They're different conditions, but they’re both serious. Non-genetic Diabetes is preventable; learn how with this talk.
This talk is not only for those currently managing Diabetes, but to inform those who are supporting loved ones with the condition, or are concerned about developing it in the future.
This talk is on the 27th March, at 10:30.
HOW DO I SIGN UP?
You can either contact the office to book your free space, or enrol online.
Book your free space for A Journey with Dementia here.
Book your free space for Managing Diabetes here.
We welcome feedback on our new online booking system. Please get in touch with Clare on admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk to share any thoughts.
WHAT IF I’VE ALREADY PAID?
If you have already booked and paid for a wellbeing talk, we will be refunding your payment as it is now free. We will be in touch once your refund has processed.
2nd February 2023
New course! Painting with Paper: Collage with Fran Colomb
WHAT’S PAINTING WITH PAPER?
The playful nature of collage encourages unexpected and inspiring results. Recycling scraps of found, ephemeral materials such as magazines, packaging and newspapers to make pictures has certain advantages: It is cheap, colourful, disposable and pliable which mean you can experiment with it while making pictures. The term collage covers a huge variety of genres from photographic to abstract so each class will be structured around a short introduction to an artist or a technique which will then be the spring board into an exercise that will explore the versatility and endless possibilities of this exciting medium.
This class is suitable for all levels but aimed at beginners.
MEET THE TUTOR
Fran Colomb has worked in the creative industries ever since graduating with a BA in Graphic Design from Central St Martin's School of Art 1987. Firstly working as an illustrator for a decade and then learning how to tailor clothes at the London College of Fashion and working in fashion as a pattern cutter, designer and educator. Drawing with scissors as part of her career has led her to work with collage. Most recently she has also been making and selling prints and cartoons. She is also working on a graphic novel.
WHEN IS IT?
This course runs on Thursdays from 10:00-12:30. This is a 6 week course on the following dates: 23th February, 2nd March, 9th March, 16th March, 23rd March, and 30th March.
HOW DO I ENROL?
This course costs £120 for 6 sessions. To enrol, fill out our membership and enrolment forms below and once we have received these we can take payment over the phone, in person, or via BACs.
31st January 2023
Introducing… Sunday Socials!
Here at Bedford House we’re launching our new Sunday Socials!
Join us on Sunday 19th February for FREE, thanks to the generous support of Find Your Active, Essex.
WHAT’S A SUNDAY SOCIAL?
Our Sunday Socials will be different each month. However, they will always have an emphasis on fun, friendships and community. These will range from afternoon concerts and performances, tutor-led workshops, to themed community cafes. Our Sunday Socials will invariably involve live music, the opportunity to make new friends and stay active.
SUNDAY 19TH FEBRUARY: MUSIC & MOVEMENT
The first of our Sunday Socials will be on Sunday 19th February. This social will be all about music and movement.
We will be showcasing our wonderful dance tutor Rachel Newby, and excellent Qi Gong & Tai Chi expert Richard Edwards! They’ll be joined by BHCA favourites Darklight who will be providing live music!
We’ll have BHCA staff member Clare Packham interviewing Rachel and Richard, and there’ll be an opportunity to ask any burning questions you have. Rachel will be telling us all about her experience with English National Ballet and how she works in our Contemporary and Seated Dance classes. Richard will be spilling all the beans on the art of Tai Chi and Qi Gong, and how beneficial it can be for your wellbeing.
Rachel and Richard will also be leading demonstrations in dance and Tai Chi. You can watch (or dance!) from your seat, or get up and join in! Try out something new with Richard & Rachel! There’ll also be a fantastic dance performance from Rachel.
There’ll also be refreshments available to purchase from our café!
HOW DO I ATTEND?
The three Sunday Socials will be free, thanks to the generous support of Find Your Active, Essex. Please register for catering purposes so that we know roughly how many people will turn up. Just send admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk an email to say you would like to attend or give us a ring on 020 8504 6668.
Apart from that all you need to do is turn up and bring a friend if you can!
WHEN IS IT?
Sunday Social: Music & Movement 19th February 14.00-16.30
27th January 2023
REDISOVERING RADIO STARTS TODAY!
REDISOVERING RADIO STARTS TODAY!
Our new FREE Community Course begins this afternoon.
Join Michael Luper from 14:00-15:30 in Room 6.
WHAT’S REDISCOVERING RADIO?
Michael Luper's new course is designed to introduce, or reintroduce people to the magic of radio. Michael will show us how radio waves don't just come from the BBC or Capital FM, but from aircraft, satellites, the International Space Station, exploding stars and The Big Bang.
This will be an informative and engaging course for anyone looking to learn something new!
WHY RADIO?
Our tutor Michael grew up at a time of crystal sets and large valve radios that took 5 minutes to warm up.
“For me, it always was and is still simply magical to receive and listen to a station that’s transmitting a tiny electrical wave, from say Tokyo that travels through space, all the way to me here on the other side of world where I can hear it in my speaker.” - Michael
HOW DO I ATTEND?
Please fill out an enrolment as linked below and send to admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk, or come into BHCA to complete a paper copy. If you’re attending today’s session, you’re welcome to just turn up and fill out a form in the class.
FREE?
This course is entirely free to attend. You don’t even need to pay for membership! The course is generously supported by Michael Luper and BHCA.
If you’d like to support BHCA to further our ability to provide free experiences for the community, and are able to make a donation or ‘pay-it-forward’, BHCA would be incredibly grateful. All our payable courses are subsidised 25-30% by our other income streams. If you can help to bridge the gap that would be much appreciated. Donation pots are situated in Reception and the Kitchen for any surplus lose change. We can also take donations via card. Please ask if you would like to make a donation in any other way.
26th January 2023
Upholstery Workshop this Saturday!
LAST CHANCE TO BOOK!
Got an old piece of furniture that needs refreshing?
From garden chairs to piano stools, Margaret French will help you transform tired furniture!
Join us this Saturday and learn the art of Upholstery!
WHAT IS IT?
Upholstery is the process of adding padding/foam to furniture, and covering with fabric. You can do this to give a new lease of life to an old piece, turn a garden chair into an indoor item, or use colour-coordinating fabric to make your decor match!
Margaret French will be leading us through basic upholstery. You will need to bring a chair or a stool that you want to transform. The first part of the workshop will involve planning and learning how you will upholster your piece, and the second will be actually upholstering it!
DO I NEED TO BRING ANYTHING?
You will need to bring the following items:
Chair or stool to be upholstered
Fabric (wadding & or foam if you wish)
Tape measure, scissors, pins.
Hammer & tacks or a staple gun & staple remover.
HOW DO I ATTEND?
The fee for this two-part workshop is £85. You can sign up by filling out our enrolment forms below and emailing them, or bringing them into our office. You can pay via BACS, or by card in person or over the phone.
WHEN IS IT?
Planning session: 28th January 2023 - 10:00 - 12:00
Implementation session: 4th February 2023 - 10:00 - 13:00
Additional sessions may be possible if you need more time to complete your item. Additional sessions would be at an additional fee.
25th January 2023
Craft & Cuppa
Join the Bedford House Crafters!
We’ve had a wonderful response to our new free crafting group; have you joined us yet?
WHAT IS IT?
The Bedford House Crafters are a new group that meet weekly at Bedford House for ‘Craft & a Cuppa’ sessions. They are led by our wonderful Craft Coordinator, Jo Brunt. Jo will be teaching a range of crafting techniques. First, the group are exploring crochet. The crafters meet in Room 7.
This is a friendly, chatty and supportive group for people of all abilities. Don’t worry if you’ve never crafted before, Jo is always on hand with expert advice! There’s plenty of tea, coffee and biscuits too!
This group is generously supported by the Essex County Council Community Winter Warmth and Welcome Fund.
WHAT WILL I MAKE?
The group is currently working on making fingerless gloves. Keep warm this January with handmade crocheted fashion!
HOW DO I JOIN?
This group is entirely free to attend. All you need to do is fill out an enrolment form!
WHEN IS IT?
The sessions runs from 10:30-12:30 on Mondays.
23rd January 2023
FREE Dance Classes
Free dance courses start this February!
Never danced before? Rachel is the perfect teacher for people of all abilities!
This Community Course is generously supported by Find Your Active.
RACHEL NEWBY
Our Community Dance Courses are run by the incredible Rachel Newby. Rachel has had an extensive and varied career in both drama and dance, performing in theatre in education and delivering in the community. Since settling in the South East she has worked for English National Ballet, Artis, DanceWest, the Dance Network Association and the Royal Academy of Dance (on their Step in to Dance programme).
CONTEMPORARY DANCE
Contemporary Dance is a fantastic class for those new to dance, or those looking to extend their skills. This course involves coordination exercises, use of the spine, working in parallel and turned out position and give the dancers a sense of freedom and change of dynamics. Music from across genres and decades are used to change the pace and create different moods. Rachel’s classes are joyful and full of laughter. ! No prior experience is required, and no dance partner required! Comfortable clothes and a little flexibility to start out is all it takes. Not sure? Try a taster session by contacting us today!
Check out a video of Contemporary Dance here.
SEATED DANCE
Seated Dance is another wonderful course run by the ever-smiling Rachel Newby. Seated dance exercise classes draw inspiration from contemporary dance and ballet technique, as well as yoga and pilates. The sessions will raise the heart rate, stretch muscles and help build strength and balance. This course is perfect for mature movers, or anyone recovering from injury, whether you’ve danced before or this is your first time. Whatever pace you’re working at, you can be certain to have an excellent time with the always enthusiastic Rachel Newby and her toe-tapping soundtrack!
This class is also an excellent way of learning to keep warm at home. Learn a few movements in our sessions, and then if you feel a little chilly at home you can exercise safely with a mini dance session to your radio, to get the circulation going!
This class can be done in everyday, comfortable clothing.
Check out a video of Seated Dance here.
HOW DO I JOIN?
This group is entirely free to attend. All you need to do is fill out an enrolment form!
WHEN IS IT?
Contemporary Dance will be on Wednesdays from 13:15-14:15. The first session is on the 1st February.
Seated Dance will be on Thursdays from 13:15-14:15. The first session is on the 2nd February.
20th January 2023
The Big Garden Birdwatch
The RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch is an event happening all across the country. You can join us at Bedford House to watch the birds in our garden together from inside. Together we will count the number of birds we see in an hour. You can find more information here
WHY?
Here’s some information from the RSPB:
The fact that we’ve lost 38 million birds from UK skies in the last 50 years underlines that nature is in crisis. We see it in our own back gardens with house sparrows struggling and starlings undergoing a severe decline. As a conservation charity, your Birdwatch results help us monitor how our UK birds are faring in the face of the nature and climate emergency. But we can’t do it without your support.
By taking part in Big Garden Birdwatch you, and hundreds of thousands of other like-minded nature lovers, will be taking action to protect our birds for generations to come.
HOW DO YOU TAKE PART?
Taking part is as easy as 1,2,3:
1. Watch the birds around you for one hour
2. Count how many of each species of bird lands on your patch
3. BHCA will go online and tell the RSPB what we saw together!
WHEN IS IT?
This event is on Sunday 29th January, from 11am-12pm.
HOW DO I JOIN?
You’re welcome to just show up, but it would be great to know if you’re attending!
14th January 2023
Rediscovering Radio
The second of our Community Courses begins in January!
Rediscovering Radio with Michael Luper
Michael Luper's new course is designed to introduce, or reintroduce people to the magic of radio. Michael will show us how radio waves don't just come from the BBC or Capital FM, but from aircraft, satellites, the International Space Station, exploding stars and The Big Bang.
WHAT’S A COMMUNITY COURSE?
This course is delivered on a pay-what-you-can basis. This means if you are not in a position to pay to attend this group, you are welcome to come for free. If you are able to donate, you will be helping to provide more free spaces to people who are unable to.
WHEN IS IT?
This course will take place weekly on Fridays from 14:00-15:30 starting on the 27th January.
HOW DO I JOIN?
Please fill out a membership form and enrolment as linked below. If you’d like to ‘pay it forward’, you can so in person, over the phone, or via BACS.
ENROLMENT FOR TERM TWO
Priority Enrolment for current students has now ended. Booking is now open to the general public for next term. If you haven’t yet secured your place, please send in your enrolment forms, then give us a call or see us in person to take payments.
13th January 2023
Spotlight on Watercolour
Dear Members and Friends,
Today we’re putting the spotlight on Katherine Poluck’s Watercolour Course!
Mondays 19:00-21:00
KATHERINE POLUCK
Katherine Poluck, Designer and Botanical Illustrator, BA(Hons) dipSBA PGCE is a local artist with a degree in Graphic Design/Illustration (Kingston University) Post Graduate Degree in Art and Design (Middlesex University) and experienced Art Teacher in Watercolours.
She achieved a Diploma in Botanical Illustration 2011 with 'The Society of Botanical Artists' and exhibited at Westminster Central Hall in the prestigious Annual Exhibition in 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015. Her portfolio contains Botanical Studies based on plants and insects, her work has been published in 'Forest Focus', Epping Forest (City of London). She undertakes private commissions and exhibits her work on a regular basis.
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
This course is suitable for those entirely new to watercolour, and for those looking to extend their skills.
Together with Katherine, you will be painting washes onto paper and looking at paint effects and how to mix colours so that your knowledge and experience can grow. This can then be developed into painting images that interest you.
This will be a friendly supportive class that will show how accessible and rewarding painting in watercolour can be.
12th January 2023
Spotlight on: Tai Chi & Qi Gong
Dear Members and Friends
Today we’re putting the spotlight on Richard Edwards’ Tai Chi and Qi Gong Courses!
Qi Gong & Tai Chi: Mondays 13:15-14:15
Tai Chi: Fridays 11:15-12:15
WHAT IS QI GONG?
Qigong is a Healing Art. It is also an important branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine known as “Chinese Yoga” and has significant similarities to Tai Chi, as both work on Qi and life. In a practice, body movement, breathing techniques, sound meditation and mind activity are used to directly work on Qi – our energy or life force.
Practiced by millions worldwide, Qigong is a powerful and effective tool for preventing illness and improving health. It strengthens and balances the whole body, including the organs and the immune system. It helps to calm the mind so the practitioner can find a balanced, relaxed and harmonious state more easily and more often. When in a state of physical, mental and emotional balance, we are better able to meet all kinds of challenges in life.
This class also offers seated variations.
Join Richard on Mondays from 13:15-14:15.
WHAT IS TAI CHI?
Tai Chi combines deep breathing and relaxation with flowing movements. Originally developed as a martial art in 13th-century China, Tai Chi is today practiced around the world as a health-promoting exercise. Tai Chi is relatively easy to learn and very early to implement in daily life. This course is suitable for those new to the practice, and those looking to extend their skills.
Join Richard on Fridays from 11:15-12:15.
WANT TO SEE RICHARD IN ACTION?
Check out our video here to see what Qi Gong and Tai Chi are all about!
11th January 2023
Spotlight on: Creative Writing
Dear Members and Friends,
Today we’re putting the spotlight on Creative Writing with Rosemary Haslam and Lauraine Everitt!
This is a new course for 2023, which aims to show everyone has a story to tell.
Have you ever wanted to start writing?
CREATIVE WRITING
Together with Rosemary and Lauraine, learners will explore different inspirations such as diary accounts, animal perspectives, children’s perspectives, settings, peculiar people, letters as narratives and the story inside you.
The course culminates in a showcase day, where participants share their writing with each other.
WHEN IS IT?
This course starts in January 2023 and will run fortnightly for two terms. It will take place on Mondays from 10:00-12:30.
There will be 11 sessions fortnightly starting on 16 Jan. Please note: there are two consecutive weeks on 15th and 22nd May due to Bank Holidays.
THERE’S STILL TIME TO ENROL!
If you’d like to join any of our courses, please find enrolment and membership forms below. Once we have received these, we can take payment in person or over the phone to secure your space.
10th January 2023
Welcome to Term 2!
Term 2 has begun!
We’ve opened our doors for 2023; what will you be joining us for?
WHAT’S ON TODAY?
Today we’ll be staying active with Tuesday’s Fitness courses. We’ll be dancing in our Ballet course with Daniela Delerci, exploring Epping Forest in our Guided Walks with Robert Levene, practicing mindfulness in Yoga with Jacqui Bonham and exercising with Marion Pretty in Keep Fit for Women aged 60+.We’ll also be getting creative in our Arts & Crafts courses. Today we’ll be exploring Sculpture with Esther Neslen, throwing on the wheel in Pottery with Martin Chesterman, trying out something new in Art For All, getting our brushes out for Exploring Painting, and developing our skills in Oil Painting with Tony Swann.
8th January 2023
Term 2 starts tomorrow!
Whether you’re a regular or new to Bedford House, there’s still time to join us this week!
Have you enrolled yet?
WHAT’S ON TOMORROW?
We’re kicking off Term 2 with some brilliant courses tomorrow.
First off is Qi Gong & Tai Chi with Richard Edwards, who will be giving 2023 a mindful beginning from 13:15-14:15.
Learning to Draw with Tony Swann is the perfect course for anyone looking to learn a new skill this 2023. Build up from the basics, and learn to use different techniques and media. Join Tony from 19:00-21:00.
Want to learn to use Watercolour paints? Katherine Poluck’s Watercolour course is a wonderful class for complete beginners, and those wishing to extend their skills. Join Katherine from 19:00-21:00.
Our Sculpture course is headed up by the incredible ceramicist Esther Neslen. Join her from 19:15-21:15 and you could be making some beautiful sculptures for your home in 2023! If you prefer throwing on the pottery wheel to hand building, there are plenty of opportunities in Esther’s class to do just that!
Looking to feel more active this 2023? Join us for Aerobics with Jennifer Humm for a fun way to keep fit! Enjoy the music, challenge yourself with this full-body workout! Jennifer welcomes people of all levels of fitness. Join Jennifer from 19:30-20:30.
THERE’S STILL TIME TO ENROL!
If you’d like to join any of the above courses, please find enrolment and membership forms below. Once we have received these, we can take payment in person or over the phone to secure your space.
Whether you’re a regular or new to Bedford House, there’s still time to join us this week!
7th January 2023
NEW: Community Courses!
Dear Members and Friends,
Launching our Community Courses!
We’re delighted to announce the launch of our free to attend Community Courses, supported by Essex County Council, and Find Your Active.
Kickstart your 2023 with a new course!
WHAT’S A COMMUNITY COURSE?
Community Courses are generously funded by external bodies, meaning they are entirely free to attend. These courses are run by experts in their respective fields and are designed to provide valuable experiences and warm, social and active spaces to our community.
WHAT ARE THEY?
Bedford House Crafters: Craft & a Cuppa (supported by Essex County Council - Community Winter Warmth and Welcome Fund)
The Bedford House Crafters are a new group who meet weekly at Bedford House for Craft & a Cuppa sessions. They are led by our wonderful Craft Coordinator, Jo Brunt. Jo will be teaching a range of crafting techniques. First, the group are exploring crochet. The crafters meet in our cozy, heated kitchen.
Rediscovering Radio (supported by ML and BHCA)
Michael Luper's new course is designed to introduce, or reintroduce people to the magic of radio. Michael will show us how radio waves don't just come from the BBC or Capital FM, but from aircraft, satellites, the International Space Station, exploding stars and The Big Bang.
Contemporary Dance (supported by Active Essex)
Our Community Dance Courses are run by the incredible Rachel Newby. Rachel has had an extensive and varied career in both drama and dance, performing in theatre in education and delivering in the community. This course will involve coordination exercises, use of the spine, working in parallel and turned out position and give the dancers a sense of freedom and change of dynamics. Music from across genres and decades are used to change the pace and create different moods. Rachel’s classes are joyful and full of laughter. No experience is required!
Seated Dance (supported by Active Essex)
Seated Dance is another wonderful course run by the ever-smiling Rachel Newby. Seated dance exercise classes draw inspiration from contemporary dance and ballet technique, as well as yoga and pilates. The sessions will raise the heart rate, stretch muscles and help build strength and balance. This course is perfect for mature movers, or anyone recovering from injury, whether you’ve danced before or this is your first time. Whatever pace you’re working at, you can be certain to have an excellent time with the always enthusiastic Rachel Newby and her toe-tapping soundtrack!
For more information, including dates and times, please see our website.
HOW DO I JOIN?
Please fill out an enrolment as linked below and send to admin@bedfordhouse.org.uk, or come into BHCA to complete a paper copy.
If you’d like to support BHCA to further our ability to provide free experiences for the community, and are able to make a donation or ‘pay-it-forward’, BHCA would be incredibly grateful. All our payable courses are subsidised 25-30% by our other income streams. If you can help to bridge the gap that would be much appreciated. Donation pots are situated in Reception and the Kitchen for any surplus lose change. We can also take donations via card. Please ask if you would like to make a donation in any other way.
ENROLMENT FOR TERM TWO
Priority Enrolment for current students has now ended. Booking is now open to the general public for next term. If you haven’t yet secured your place, please send in your enrolment forms, then give us a call or see us in person to take payment.
LAST CHANCE TO WIN A VOUCHER!
Fill out our survey before the 9th January for a chance to win a £30 voucher. Have your say here.
5th January 2023
Last Chance to win a £30 Voucher!
Dear Members and Friends,
Want to win a £30 voucher?
Complete our survey before the 9th January for a chance to win a £30 voucher!
Here at Bedford House we rely on feedback from our members and friends to improve our facilities, offerings and reach to our community.
We’ve created a short survey to gather your thoughts on this year and beyond. We’d be so grateful to anyone who has 5 minutes spare to give us some feedback.
To say thank you for providing feedback, everyone who fills out our survey before the 9th January will be entered into a prize draw to win a £30 voucher, redeemable against fees for any course or workshop at Bedford House.
Find our survey here.
*T&Cs apply - Entries must be made by midnight on 9 January. Any entries made after this point will not be entered into the prize draw. To enter you must supply your email address. In order to receive the prize, you must respond within 48 hours of winning. This voucher must be used by the 31st August 2023.
WHEN WILL YOU REOPEN?
Our office is now open. You’ll be able to contact us with any questions about enrolment and the new term.
WHEN DOES TERM 2 BEGIN?
Term two begins on the 9th January.